Word Balloon Comics Podcast

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Jerry Ordway Part 2: Fantastic Four, Stan Lee & Comic Book History Revisited Jul 26, 2025

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In Part 2 of our conversation with legendary comic creator Jerry Ordway, we pivot from Metropolis to Marvel as Jerry shares his candid thoughts on the legacy and missed opportunities of the Fantastic Four movies—especially from the perspective of someone who’s spent time chronicling Marvel’s first family on the page. We also get some memorable Stan Lee stories, offering insight into the man behind the myth from someone who’s seen the industry evolve up close.
But this episode isn’t just nostalgia—we dive into the more complex aspects of comic book history, including how creators depicted people of color during the Golden and Silver Ages. Jerry speaks honestly about the era’s blind spots and how the medium has both reflected and shaped cultural attitudes over time. It’s a thoughtful, wide-ranging conversation with one of comics’ most respected voices.

Jerry Ordway Part 1: Superman, the JSA, DC History & The Colors of Comics Jul 26, 2025

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Today on Word Balloon, we kick off Part 1 of a deep-dive conversation with legendary writer, artist, and inker Jerry Ordway. Jerry shares his thoughts on the new Superman film and reflects on his own legacy with the Man of Steel—both on the page and behind the scenes.
We also dig into his acclaimed work on the Justice Society of America, a cornerstone of DC’s Golden Age revival. But that’s not all—we get into the nuts and bolts of comic book production, with Ordway breaking down how the cheap paper stock of the '60s through the '80s warped colors, muted tones, and frustrated artists. It’s a rare, behind-the-curtain look at the technical and creative challenges of working in the pre-digital era of comics. Whether you're a Superman superfan or a student of the artform, this is a must-listen conversation with one of DC's most important storytellers.

“Jeremy Adams on Green Lantern, Aquaman, and Upcoming DC Events” Jul 25, 2025

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On this episode of Word Balloon, writer Jeremy Adams returns to break down his high-octane run on Green Lantern and Green Lantern Corps, as well as his recent work on Aquaman. We dive deep into the cosmic drama brewing in the DC Universe, from Hal Jordan’s personal battles to the Corps-wide crises reshaping intergalactic law and order.
Plus, Jeremy teases major developments and reveals the big team events looming in each series — events that could change the status quo for Earth’s emerald heroes and the King of Atlantis alike. Whether you're a die-hard GL fan or just jumping on board, this conversation is packed with insight, energy, and a creator’s perspective on building modern mythology.

Keith Williams shares Marvel and DC Memories Jul 24, 2025

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In this episode of Word Balloon, we sit down with a veteran of the comic book trench Keith Williams an accomplished inker whose brushwork has brought some of the most iconic characters to life. From helping define the look of the Black-suited Spider-Man during a pivotal era in Marvel history, to adding depth and shadow to the Man of Steel’s adventures at DC, and even contributing to the legacy of The Phantom in the newspaper strips, this is a career that spans decades and genres.

Beau Smith Talks Earp, Guy Gardner, and the Man of Steel Jul 23, 2025

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On this episode of Word Balloon, we're talking with the legendary Beau Smith — a true cowboy of comics. From creating the cult favorite Wynonna Earp to seeing it ride high as a hit TV series, Beau’s journey is as action-packed as his stories. We dig into the roots of Wynonna, and how he’s now teaming up with the show's stars Melanie Scrofano and Tim Rozon to bring new adventures to the page.
But that's just the start. Beau shares his unfiltered thoughts on the new Superman movie, and why he thinks the portrayal of Guy Gardner may be the most accurate DC Comics adaptation to date — especially considering he wrote the book on Guy. We also hit the DC vaults to revisit Beau’s time writing Catwoman, Wildcat, and other unsung gems that show his knack for tough characters with heart. If you love straight-talking creators and behind-the-scenes insight from someone who's lived it, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss.

Trek Watch Strange NewWorlds Season 3 eps 1 and 2 Jul 22, 2025

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"Can NEON ICHIBAN Break Amazon's Grip on Digital Comics?" Jul 21, 2025

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Today we’re talking digital comics, innovation, and disruption — past, present, and future. I’m joined by two key figures who changed the game once… and are looking to do it again. Co-Founder David Steinberger and Chip Mosher vp marketing of Comixology, are here to talk about their bold new venture: Neon Ichiban — a next-gen digital comics marketplace built to empower creators, preserve ownership, and rebuild trust in the digital reading experience.
In this conversation, we dig into their Comixology origin story, the Amazon acquisition and aftermath, and why they believe now is the time to reboot what digital comics should be. From creator-first economics to indie publishing opportunities, this is a candid, no-BS look at the challenges and potential of reinventing comics distribution from the ground up — again.

Breaking Down the Boldest Superman Film Yet Part 2 Jul 20, 2025

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Part 2 of our Superman movie review extravaganza!
I’ve assembled a Fortress-worthy roundtable of Superman experts and superfans to unpack every detail — the triumphs, the missteps, the Easter eggs, and the big swings this movie takes with the Man of Steel. Joining me are former Superman comic creators Art Baltazar and Franco, the award-winning duo behind Tiny Titans, Superman of Smallville, and Superman Family Adventures. We’re also joined by Scoot McMahon, cartoonist and die-hard Superman fan, Terrificon founder and host Mitch Hallock, and our Canadian correspondent and longtime Word Balloon contributor, Wayne from Canada.
From legacy nods to cinematic risks, from casting choices to Kryptonian lore — nothing is off-limits as we break it all down over two jam-packed episodes. So grab your cape, turn on the spoiler shield, and let’s dive into Part 2 of our Superman movie review extravaganza!

Truth, Justice, and a slightly Divided Fandom: Spoiling the New Superman Film Jul 20, 2025

Show notes

today we’re kicking off a special two-part deep dive into the most talked-about superhero film of the summer — the brand new Superman movie. And let me be clear: this one is spoiler-heavy, so if you haven’t seen the film yet, you’ve been warned.
I’ve assembled a Fortress-worthy roundtable of Superman experts and superfans to unpack every detail — the triumphs, the missteps, the Easter eggs, and the big swings this movie takes with the Man of Steel. Joining me are former Superman comic creators Art Baltazar and Franco, the award-winning duo behind Tiny Titans, Superman of Smallville, and Superman Family Adventures. We’re also joined by Scoot McMahon, cartoonist and die-hard Superman fan, Terrificon founder and host Mitch Hallock, and our Canadian correspondent and longtime Word Balloon contributor, Wayne from Canada.
From legacy nods to cinematic risks, from casting choices to Kryptonian lore — nothing is off-limits as we break it all down over two jam-packed episodes. So grab your cape, turn on the spoiler shield, and let’s dive into Part 1 of our Superman movie review extravaganza!

Word Balloon League Bendis Discord Book Club SAGA vol 1 Jul 19, 2025

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The stunning crossover of the league of word balloon listeners and the bendis discord join forces to discuss the first volume of brian k vaughn and fiona staples sci-fi epic.

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