Comic Book Couples Counseling Podcast
Join married couple Brad and Lisa as they explore the various dynamics of comic book relationships throughout pop culture and publishing history.
Wed, April 30, 2025
CBCC Book Club: Rick Quinn and Dave Chisholm on Spectrum 5
First issues are hard. Last issues are hard. Second-to-last issues are hard. Maybe...all issues are hard? Book Club is back in session with creators Rick Quinn and Dave Chisholm, discussing Spectrum #5 , the penultimate issue in their brilliant Mad Cave Studios series . With the end just around the corner (the final issue arrives in shops on May 21st, as does our final Book Club episode with Quinn and Chisholm, so mark your calendars), Spectrum #5 must elevate and explode a bunch of grandiose ideas about art that the comic has so far been teasing or suggesting. Spectrum #5 is a BIG comic following two central characters while traversing multiple timelines and encountering alternate-dimension stand-ins for iconic cultural figures and places from our world. Quinn and Chisholm might not say it, but we will: PBGBs is CBGBs, and Gloria Bell is Patti Smith. Half the pleasure of reading Spectrum is tracking their sci-fi alternatives of real-world legends, which recalls similar joys had when devouring Alan Moore and Kevin O'Neill's The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen . However, as Spectrum #5 ramps toward its fiery conclusion next month, the fervor with which Quinn and Chisholm explore vital artistry is the ultimate appeal. Why do humans sing? Why do they paint? Why do they tell stories to one another? During a moment when artistic expression is recklessly dismissed or downright eradicated, Spectrum #5 shows its readers how they're constantly engaged with creative expression and why only the most vile and pathetic people are detached from it. Last month's Spectrum Book Club was extremely process-heavy in its conversation. Now, for the penultimate issue, it's time to dig into the thematic weeds, have a serious chat about human connection, and worry not about labels of pretension. We're all friends here. Spectrum 1 - 5 are currently available from Mad Cave Studios , and the final issue will arrive in shops on April 21st. Make sure you're following Dave Chisholm on his Website , TikTok , Instagram , and <a href='
Fri, April 25, 2025
Christopher Cantwell and Tyler Crook on Out of Alcatraz
June. 1962. Two men do the impossible: break Out of Alcatraz . The legendary escape almost immediately caught the public's imagination, becoming fodder for TV, film, and prose. Maybe you've encountered a few of these stories; maybe you haven't. Whatever the case, you certainly have not read an interpretation like the Oni Press comic from Christopher Cantwell and Tyler Crook. Their Out of Alcatraz begins in the crashing waters outside the prison. From there, it dips into a storm of speculation, terror, and hope. Through their story, Cantwell and Crook explore a critical moment in the American narrative. The Civil Rights movement hasn't quite popped off. John F. Kennedy still stands righteously in the White House. The confidence of Post-war America is about to burst. Three criminals taste freedom with all its bitterness and desperately attempt to choke it down. This week's podcast considers the American story and those who were left out of it or forced from it. We chat with Cantwell and Crook about the real men who broke free from Alcatraz and the fictional men they became in Cantwell and Crook's imaginations. We discuss the allure of prison narratives and the cells we all find ourselves in at some point. Issues one and two of Out of Alcatraz are now available wherever rad comics are sold, and issue three will arrive in shops on May 21st. Continue this conversation by following Christopher Cantwell on BlueSky and Tyler Crook on BlueSky , Instagram , and his Website . Also, you can listen to his music through his Bandcamp page (although it's also available on Spotify, Apple Music, and the like). This Week's Sponsor We're sponsored by 2000 AD , the greatest comic you're not reading! Within its pages is a whole universe of characters, from Judge Dredd and Strontium Dog to Rogue Trooper, Shakara, Halo Jones, and the poor sods slogging across the Cursed Earth in The Helltrekkers . Get a print subscri
Fri, April 18, 2025
Grant Morrison on All-Star Superman
Surprise, friends. Grant Morrison joins the show for Superman Day! As the writer behind the seminal All-Star Superman , which observes its 20th anniversary this November, we cannot think of a better person to help us celebrate the Last Son of Krypton on his 87th birthday. Action Comics #1 , featuring the first appearance of Superman by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, hit newsstands on April 18th, 1938. It is the source of everything you love about superhero comics. When Action Comics first arrived, America was in economic ruin. The world was about to enter its second great war. Despair was easily accessible, but two Jewish kids from Cleveland imagined a Man of Steel who could do the impossible and would act for those who could not act for themselves. As we look outside our windows in 2025, we see an incredible darkness, but we strive for a future beyond it. We can imitate the devils in the dark, or we can seek Superman, who reflects the best version of ourselves. Like most people, probably, we first encountered Superman through television and film; it was the All-Star Superman comics by Grant Morrison, Frank Quitely, Jamie Grant, Phil Balsman, and Travis Lanham that solidified our passion for the character. Those twelve issues showcased the joyous, awful, absurd, and adventurous universe Superman populated, making us fall in love with it and our own realm in return. As Morrison writes in Supergods , we are the stories we tell ourselves. In Superman, we see who we've been, who we are, and who we could be. We're positively chuffed to chat Superman with Grant Morrison. We discuss their approach to the character in All-Star Superman and how it differs from the version they wrote in JLA , Action Comics , Final Crisis , and other stories. We discuss the significance of Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster and what it means for Grant and others to extend their great idea. We talk about Lois and Clark, Lex Luthor, Samson, and Atlas, and Grant Morrison reveals their next big comic project somewhere along the line. Continue our conversation with Grant Morrison by visiting their Website , Substack , Instagram , and Bluesky . This Week's Sponsor: We're <a href='https://shop.2000ad.com/
Mon, April 14, 2025
Aubrey Sitterson on Free Planet
If you listen to comic book podcasts beyond Comic Book Couples Counseling , you've probably already encountered Aubrey Sitterson. The writer has been making the rounds, discussing his radical new science fiction series Free Planet, made in collaboration with artist Jed Dougherty, colorist Vittorio Astone, letterer Taylor Esposito, and designer Mark Kaufman. Sitterson LOVES comics, and he LOVES talking about comics. He's spent years percolating in the medium, absorbing the code of how to make the best comics in the best way possible for his particular talents. Aubrey Sitterson has developed something he calls "The Approach." It's a new method of storytelling discovered during the making of other such comics as The Worst Dudes , No One Left to Fight , and Savage Hearts . Sitterson is not just design-focused; he's design-obsessed, and it was a delight to chat with him about this intensely, carefully sharpened obsession. We're in the weeds this week. We wanted to double down on a comics-making meal, possibly inspired by the last episode's heavy process conversation with Rick Quinn and Dave Chisholm about Spectrum #4 . Aubrey Sitterson appears reinvigorated by Free Planet , and his enthusiasm for the craft is infectious and should encourage your leap into storytelling. Final Order Cutoff for Free Planet #1 is Monday, April 14th (That's Today!), and Image Comics will finally drop the first issue in shops on May 7th. It's not a title you want to sleep on. Everyone involved is going for it, swinging for the fences. You can view the Preview Pages here , which are overwhelming in the best way possible. Follow Aubrey Sitterson on Bluesky , Instagram , Substack , and his Website . We're sponsored by 2000 AD , the greatest comic you're not reading! Within its pages is a whole universe of characters, from Judge Dredd and Strontium Dog to Rogue Trooper, Shakara, Halo Jones, and the poor sods slogging across the Cursed Earth in
Thu, April 10, 2025
CBCC Book Club: Rick Quinn and Dave Chisholm on Spectrum 4
There are not many opportunities like this one. Every month, we devour the latest Spectrum comic and then jump on the phone with creators Rick Quinn and Dave Chisholm. It's an intimate, super nerdy book club, and you're all invited. But you gotta bring your own wine. With issue four, we're more than halfway through the series, but we're just getting started regarding a thorough excavation into their creative process. Spectrum #4 is the most dense chapter in the series so far. Multiple threads weave the narrative, and several of those introduce new concepts and characters. We travel to "The Twilight of the Gods," witnessing a massive mythology dump while our heroes Melody and Ada traverse time through song. We witness the beginning of everything and must prepare for its end. This week's podcast starts with Rick Quinn and Dave Chisholm taking ownership of the Book Club, wrestling the reins from us, and guiding us to the discussion topics they want to tackle. We discuss how the series has swerved unexpectedly, resulting in radical issues like Spectrum #4 . We got tangents and anecdotes, wild theories, and sidequests. But before all that, we must discuss our recent WonderCon excursion , offering a little recap on dollar bins and panels. The Anaheim convention rests in the shadow of Disneyland, offering a unique vibe from other comic cons. It was Lisa's first time. Will she return? Spectrum 1 - 4 are currently available from Mad Cave Studios , and the fifth issue will arrive in shops on April 23rd. Make sure you're following Dave Chisholm on his Website , TikTok , Instagram , and Bluesky . And follow Rick Quinn on his Website , Bluesky , and Instagram . You wake in a hospital bed. Your hand feels heavy, there’s a ringing pain in your head. Machine parts have replaced what could not be repaired with flesh. Did the doctors save you, or strip you of your humanity? This is the question facing Adam in Futility Shapes , a one-shot comi
Thu, April 03, 2025
Scott Morse on This Ink Runs Cold
A year ago, Scott Morse found himself adrift, severed from a stable income and a defined creative path. Panic was an option. So was fear. Instead, he chose collaboration and creation. This Ink Runs Cold: Short Stories from the Space-Crime Continuum smashes two of his favorite genres between its pages. It's an anthology of one-page pulp stories written by 89 different writers, all drawn by Scott Morse and colored by José Villarrubia. Many of these writers are seasoned comic veterans, animators, and filmmakers. The table of contents includes Mike Allred, Brian Michael Bendis, Jorge Gutierrez, Derek Kirk Kim, Dave McKean, Fábio Moon, Scott Mosier, Eric Powell, Stan Sakai, and on and on and on. Even better, for our purposes anyway, This Ink Runs Cold includes numerous comic book newcomers, including us - Brad and Lisa Gullickson! As of this writing, This Ink Runs Cold has one week left on Kickstarter . Scott Morse and Allen Spiegel Fine Arts offer two editions: the Full-Color version featuring José Villarrubia's wizardry and the limited Black and White Noir version, showcasing Scott Morse's beautiful brushwork. Having knocked out some stretch goals, those backing the Bookplate and Noir/1-2 Punch tiers will get an extra book, The Brush-Offs . This is a 24-page bonus book featuring unused art, abandoned pages, scripts, an alternate prologue/epilogue, and an analysis of this unique writer/artist collaboration. We're beyond honored to contribute one page to This Ink Runs Cold ; we're practically in disbelief. Today's podcast is the first time we have featured a story we helped create, and it's an incredibly emotional experience. We're grateful to Scott Morse for coming on the show, explaining how This Ink Runs Cold grew from a mini-devastation, and why this intense injection of collaboration reinvigorated him. We also had the opportunity to explain what our short story "The ADHD P.I." means to us and how it helped us process some anxiety and self-loathing. Working with one page was ridiculously challenging, and what's most exciting is seeing how 88 other writers tackled that challenge and used that finite space in infinite ways. We also start this week's episode with our recent trip to WonderCon and an LAX nightmare we will never forget. If you're here only for the Scott Morse chatter, we won't begrudge you for skipping ahead, but you'll miss out on another outlandish story. <p class="Afq
Wed, March 26, 2025
Juni Ba on Monkey Meat: The Summer Batch
If you're not reading Juni Ba comics, you're missing out on a living legend pushing the form to its extreme potential. Since Djeliya , we haven't missed a panel from the cartoonist, and we've watched him develop into an undeniable talent, producing one essential comic after another. Just when we think he can't possibly top himself (seriously, did you read Mobilis: My Life with Captain Nemo and The Boy Wonder ?), he drops Monkey Meat: The Summer Batch , his sequel to the Image Comics anthology series. It's a radical, rageful commentary on the world we're all trapped on, but it contains profound joy through its creation. THIS. IS. COMICS. Today's podcast is a thorough conversation with Juni Ba about Monkey Meat: The Summer Batch . Why did he adopt a new aesthetic for this series? Is it too hopeless to be considered dystopian? What does Britney Spears have to do with Monkey Meat: The Summer Batch ? We dig in and chow down. The first issue of Monkey Meat: The Summer Batch is now available wherever rad comics are sold. The second issue will arrive on April 2nd . We're begging you not to let this series, destined for legendary status, slip through your fingers. Be sure to continue this conversation with Juni Ba by visiting his Instagram , Bluesky , and Twitter . This week's episode is sponsored by 2000 AD , the greatest comic you're not reading! Within its pages is a whole universe of characters, from Judge Dredd and Strontium Dog to Rogue Trooper, Shakara, Halo Jones, and the poor sods slogging across the Cursed Earth in The Helltrekkers . Get a print subscription at your door every week - and the first issue is free! Or subscribe digitally, get free back issues, and download DRM-free copies of each issue for just $9 a month. That's 128 pages of incredible monthly comics for less than $10. We're also sponsored by the Beyond the Cape Podcast . If you enjoy Comic Book Couples Counseling , you'd undoubtedly enjoy their show. Beyond the Cape is a laid-back talk show in which every episode highlights their love of this beautiful comic book medium, their pe
Fri, March 21, 2025
Matthew Rosenberg on We're Taking Everyone Down With Us
It's not about the plot. That's why Matthew Rosenberg was not worried about spoiling it all in the solicits for We're Taking Everyone Down With Us , his new Image Comics series done in collaboration with artist Stefano Landini, colorists Roman Titov and Jason Wordie, letterer Hassan Otsmane-Elhaou, and designer Becca Carey. For the writer, the comic is everything surrounding the narrative: character, emotion, theme, style, etc. AKA, the perfect Comic Book Couples Counseling comic. The first issue of the new sci-fi spy thriller releases this Wednesday (March 26th) and celebrates numerous influences, but it's sharpened into something extraordinarily fresh. The tropes will be familiar to any James Bond obsessive, but We're Taking Everyone Down With Us shifts the perspective from problematic double o to the child of one of his greatest mad scientist rivals. Thirteen-year-old Annalise merely wants more time with her father, but he's too busy plotting earthly destruction in his lab. So, she's stuck with her robot babysitters. We're Taking Everyone Down With Us starts with a bang, and it reveals a whole new world to the child, and that revelation will become quite the problem for any wannabe James Bond lurking in the plot. Matthew Rosenberg makes his CBCC podcast debut, and we're eager to discuss the inspirations behind We're Taking Everyone Down With Us and his relationship with super spy melodrama. We also discuss the personal saga behind the story, our frustration with spoiler culture, and why no artistic expression feels as good as comic book collaboration. Stay current on Matthew Rosenberg by following his Substack , Podcast , Bluesky , and Instagram . This week's episode is sponsored by 2000 AD , the greatest comic you're not reading! Within its pages is a whole universe of characters, from Judge Dredd and Strontium Dog to Rogue Trooper, Shakara, Halo Jones, and the poor sods slogging across the Cursed Earth in The Helltrekkers . Get a print subscription at your door every week - and the first issue is free! Or subscribe digitally, get free back issue
Mon, March 17, 2025
Stan Sakai on Usagi Yojimbo: Ten Thousand Plums and Beyond
With Usagi Yojimbo : Ten Thousand Plums , Stan Sakai enters his forty-first year as the rabbit ronin's chronicler. Each decade represents about a year in the title character's life, which you can track if you're paying attention to the seasons surrounding Usagi's adventures. If you're paying even closer attention, you can map his footsteps across sixteenth-century Japan and anticipate his next conflict or reunion, but don't worry if you lack such concentration. As you'll hear in today's episode, Sakai certainly does not. Usagi Yojimbo Ten Thousand Plums begins with a fox spirit and her daughter struggling to survive. Sickness has taken the child, and the mother seeks help from a nearby village. They reject her despite having access to the Shogun's prized plum orchard and the healing umeboshi (pickled plums) it produces. By the time Usagi, his cousin Yukichi, and the bounty hunter Gen arrive, fury has rained down upon the town, creating a dangerous suspicion of outsiders. With Ten Thousand Plums , Stan Sakai continues to explore the themes of deceptive appearances, selflessness, and selfishness, which he thoroughly dug into with the previous Usagi Yojimbo storyline, The Crow . We chat with Sakai about this current preoccupation, how it challenges Usagi and Yukichi, and where it could lead the cousins. No major spoilers lie within our conversation, but Stan Sakai does tease a few things that will undoubtedly spark intense curiosity for longtime Usagi Yojimbo readers. The Sword of Narukami is in play. Could another famous sword re-appear, too? Following Ten Thousand Plums ' first three issues, a new story entitled "Tabo" should prove to be Stan Sakai's most personal comic yet. It was written shortly after his younger brother Kenneth passed away, and Sakai kindly expands on what this tale means for him and his family. You'll hear how "Tabo" places Usagi and Yukichi on a pilgrimage in search of the miraculous goddess called "The Mother," forcing Usagi to confront his skepticism in ways he never has before. The first issue of Usagi Yojimbo Ten Thousand Plums is now available from Dark Horse Comics and Dogu Publishing . The second issue will arrive on April 16th, and we have an exclusive preview of its first five pages on t
Thu, March 13, 2025
Gateway Dredd: Rob Williams and Arthur Wyatt on A Better World
Reading Judge Dredd in 2025 is a helluva thing. The gap between Anycity USA and Mega-City One shortens seemingly with every passing second, causing us to re-evaluate dystopia's purpose. A Better World, the latest 2000 AD collection from writers Rob Williams and Arthur Wyatt, featuring gorgeously gnarly art from Henry Flint, Boo Cook, Jake Lynch, and Jim Boswell, is a vicious mirror to gaze into. And anxiety rests in what to do after you pull your head away. The story begins with Judge Maitland discovering the impossible amongst her accounts. If the Chief Justices would allow her to reallocate a few resources, say feed money into education and a few other social services, crime in Mega-City One would likely plummet. They give her a sector to manage, and her theory becomes reality. Oh, no. Judge Dredd : A Better World knocked us flat when we first read it last year. We, and a lot of other comic lovers, ranked it as one of 2024's best stories . Now that it's properly collected, we were eager to get Rob Williams and Arthur Wyatt on the podcast to break it down and challenge our understanding of Mega-City One's top cop and the people he polices. We discuss how and why they brought Judge Maitland to her findings, how she relates heavily to Dredd, and why he responds so warmly to her. Or as warmly as Dredd possibly can. Our conversation dips into the joys of dystopia as well as the danger that can occur when folks give it a light reading. The trick being to make light readings impossible. Follow Rob Williams on Bluesky , Instagram , and Twitter . Follow Arthur Wyatt on Bluesky , Instagram , and Twitter . Yes, this week's episode is sponsored by 2000 AD , the greatest comic you're not reading! Within its pages is a whole universe of characters, from Judge Dredd and Strontium Dog to Rogue Trooper, Shakara, Halo Jones, and the poor sods slogging across the Cursed Earth in The Helltrekkers . Get a print subscription at your door every week - and the first issue is free! Or subscribe digitally, get free back issues, and d
Wed, March 05, 2025
The Ultimate Tom King Helen of Wyndhorn Interview
Today's podcast with Tom King is a conversation we eagerly anticipated the moment we finished the first issue of Helen of Wyndhorn . From its earliest panels, illustrated brilliantly by Bilquis Evely, colored by Matheus Lopes, and lettered by Clayton Cowles, we knew this saga of grief, self-discovery, magic, and adventure would occupy large, permanent portions of our imaginations. We merely waited for it to conclude, reveal its full magnificence, and find a proper hardcover release worthy of its contents. We then needed to dissect everything with Tom, our friend and frequent guest. Dark Horse Comics has now collected Helen of Wyndhorn into a hefty hardback that will undoubtedly lure new readers to its sumptuous narrative, and we're ready to dive into its pages and go full-spoilers with its author. Before we even hit record, Tom King was happily pouring over this story with us, recalling his initial intentions for the tale and comparing them to his current perspective. Helen of Wyndhorn reteams King with his Supergirl : Woman of Tomorrow cohorts, but it's a saga that took almost three times as long to complete, and that effort proudly reveals itself in every line, word, and pixel. The book is often sold as " Conan the Barbarian meets The Wizard of Oz ." Sure, those influences are preset, and we discuss them, but it's a book that thrives on gothic romance and real-life heartache, too. When we first meet the title character, she's more than adrift; she's devastated and on the verge of destruction. Her father, pulp author CK Cole, is dead and gone. Her grandfather hires a governess to drag her back to his estate. What she discovers there will change everything she knows about her father as well as reality itself. And her journey toward purpose awoke something in us. Something that's evolving even as we write these words. How big or significant must an action be for it to be heroic? To continue this conversation beyond the podcast, follow Tom King on Bluesky , Threads , and Instagram . Other Relevant Links to This Week's Episode: Tom King on Supergirl: Woman o
Fri, February 28, 2025
A Slasher Celebration: David Bowles, Drew Edwards, and Monica Gallagher on The Matron
The horror genre occupies an important moment in our romantic relationship. We started dating nearly eighteen years ago. Our earliest outings were at the theater, watching one mediocre to terrible horror film after the other. As you'll hear in this week's episode, those violent excursions caused us to sharpen our ideas of who we are. Gosh, we sure could have used The Matron back then. Comic creators David Bowles, Drew Edwards, and Monica Gallagher join us to discuss their new slasher comic, The Matron . It's a distinct, bloody trip across multiple generations. While it began as a thought experiment related to The Texas Chain Saw Massacre , it quickly transformed into a rich, thoughtful exercise in how the slasher story can contain and process profound human anxiety. Fifty years after her great-great-grandmother slaughtered her way into infamy, Roz desperately wants to find space on this planet away from her family's murderous past. Mostly in the arms of her girlfriend, Samantha. However, as winter sweeps across the Texas town of Ascuas, celebrations centered around the original Matron's killings begin. As do a new set of killings. The Matron allowed us to discover our history with the slasher and our love for it. While these musings tend to occur around the Halloween season, the first two months of 2025 have proved to be the perfect moment to seek solace in characters like The Matron, Michael Myers, Jason Voorhees, and other masked maniacs. The Matron is currently seeking funding via Kickstarter. As of this writing, they have sixteen days left on the campaign. CLICK HERE to explore this unique slasher further. You can follow David Bowles on Instagram . You can follow Drew Edwards on Instagram . You can follow Monica Gallagher on Instagram . Other Relevant Links to This Week's Episode: Support Your Local Comic Shop - Episode 2 - Now Or Never (San Diego, CA) Married t
Tue, February 25, 2025
CBCC Book Club: Rick Quinn and Dave Chisholm on Spectrum 3
We try not to gatekeep. We try to resist nostalgia, but on some days, we feel the purest expression possible in comics can only occur through monthly serialization. Rick Quinn and Dave Chisholm return to the podcast for the third month, discussing Spectrum #3 , the latest entry in their magical, sci-fi tour through an alternate musical history. As you'll hear Rick Quinn say at some point in our conversation, Spectrum #3 is not their "Bohemian Rhapsody" or "Hey Jude." It's twenty-two pages; it's their three-minute pop song, and nothing is more simplistically significant than a three-minute pop song. Lives are often altered within those beautiful constraints. We're halfway through the Mad Cave Studios series and our monthly Book Club discussion of it. Feel free to jump on board here, but also, catching up won't take you long. Find the links to those conversations below. Spectrum #3 introduces more characters and artistic mediums for our heroes and readers to consider. Last month, we explored how fine art interacts with music, and now, through the character of Walton Naves, we look at photography's relationship to sound. What separates the "click" from the picture triggered by it? As always, Rick Quinn and Dave Chisholm are more than willing to travel deep with us into Spectrum . This time, they're packing their own notes! We discuss how the third issue still reveals their discovery of the material and how next month's comic will show them confidently accepting its mission. Between the pages, lives were literally born, and perspectives radically transformed. Can you find the page created between childlessness and fatherhood? Just look for signs of exhaustion and obsessive detail. Spectrum 1 - 3 are currently available from Mad Cave Studios , and the fourth issue will arrive in shops on March 19th. Make sure you're following Dave Chisholm on his Website , TikTok , Instagram , and Bluesky . And follow Rick Quinn on his Website , Bluesky , and Instagr
Wed, February 19, 2025
Thomas Jane and Mike Carey on The Lycan
They couldn't let go. Thomas Jane and Mike Carey resurrect The Lycan , a comics project languishing for over fifteen years. Jane and screenwriter David James Kelly initiated the concept and hired Carey to write the script. An artist was also hired. That artist disappeared. An opportunity arose years later, and a new artist, Diego Yapur, finally materialized this ruthless tale of adventure and horror. The North Sea. 1797. A ship shatters on the shore of a Scottish isle. The hunters within spill upon the sand, encountering a Red Coat regiment and a Convent-turned-Fortress. The three factions mistrust each other but must find unity if they're to defend themselves from a hirsute plague. The Lycan recalls the gnarliest stories in the best comic book anthologies: Twisted Tales , Creepy , Vault of Horror , etc. Yet, it's given the space that writers like Bruce Jones were never afforded. Thomas Jane and Mike Carey are confident storytellers who've spent a lifetime consuming this beautiful medium and know they can let the title and the many engaging characters below it do the work. The beast is coming, but in The Lycan #1 , the horror explored is utterly, painfully human. With the French Revolution on the horizon, paranoia grips everyone, and the faith carried by pirates, soldiers, and nuns is challenged and found fractured. How can they possibly fight their doggie dinner destiny? The Lycan allows our podcast conversation with Thomas Jane and Mike Carey to travel into various caves and crannies. We dig into their passion for the comic book medium and how it differs from movies ( The Punisher ) and novels ( The Girl With All The Gifts ). We discuss the comic's complicated origin and the challenge of collaboration, as well as the powerful, relatable themes at this book's center. Fear, paranoia, and faith - who needs a werewolf to do you in? The Lycan #1 is now available on ComiXology but will eventually see physical release through Ablaze . Continue this conversation with Thomas Jane by following him on Instagram . And follow Mike Carey on Twitter . Other Relevant Links to This Week's Episode: <p id="u7sgy1789" cl
Wed, February 12, 2025
Clay McLeod Chapman on Seance in the Asylum
Always challenge certainty. The moment you know, watch out. Clay McLeod Chapman arrives with another spooky story to confront your perspective, if not outright shatter it. His latest comic, Seance in the Asylum , done in collaboration with artist Leonardo Marcello Grassi, colorist Mauro Gulma, and letterer Frank Cvetkovic, propels us back into our past when science sought belief to cure the mad. It's 1865. America sits soaked in blood after the Civil War. The Ashcroft Hospital is bursting at the seams with an influx of patients, and Doctor Templeton believes spiritualism could form the spine of a radical new therapy. Unfortunately, Alicia Wilkinson, the medium he hired for the job, is a fake. But how does that explain all these ghosts appearing after she's committed her little act? All lovers of storytelling should make themselves aware of Clay McLeod Chapman. Check his website and follow his footsteps. If he's speaking at a film festival, a bookstore, or a comic shop near you, ensure you're there. His readings are kinetic events powered by passion and imagination, and he brings all that to this week's podcast conversation. We discuss the deep research he brought to Seance in the Asylum , his take on science versus belief, and how he and his collaborators found a unique way to depict possession—oh, and ectoplasm. We talk a lot about solid, not at all wet, architectural ectoplasm. All four issues of Seance in the Asylum are out now from Dark Horse Comics , and the trade paperback will hit shops on June 3rd. Continue our conversation with Clay McLeod Chapman by following him on Bluesky and Instagram . Other Relevant Links to This Week's Episode: Patreon Exclusive: Clay McLeod Chapman on Extreme Carnage The CBCC Newsletter - Our Psychic Rapport <a href='https://www.patreon.com/posts/support-your-e
Wed, February 05, 2025
Jason Aaron and Mahmud Asrar on Bug Wars
After doing a stint on Conan the Barbarian for Marvel, Jason Aaron and Mahmud Asrar aimed to keep their collaboration roaring. They loved their time in Hyperborea but also wanted a realm to claim as their own and one where they could unleash their most vicious instincts. Bug Wars , their latest partnership, published at Image Comics, is the beautifully brutal saga of "The Yard." Here, in the tall grass, below teenager Slade Slaymaker's home, Beetle Clans rage against the Ant Imperium while the Systers of the Spyder whisper of a coming storm. We're excited to have Jason Aaron back on the podcast, this time bringing Mahmud Asrar with him. We discuss their fascination with "Oh, No! I'm Shrunk!" stories and why their version required a bloody battleground. Our conversation also ventures into why Bug Wars may be one of Jason Aaron's most personal stories and how Mahmud Asrar challenged some legitimate creepy crawly phobias to bring this tale to the page. This week's podcast begins with a discussion about our "Comics Will Mend Your Heart" 2025 theme and how it relates to the famous Jack Kirby quote, "Kid...comics will break your heart." When and where did Kirby first say it, and what was the quote's original context? We get into it. Bug Wars #1 arrives in comic shops on February 12th . It's written by Jason Aaron, illustrated by Mahmud Asrar, colored by Matthew Wilson, lettered and designed by Becca Carey, and edited by Heather Antos. Consider continuing this conversation with Jason Aaron via his Substack , Instagram , and Bluesky . Please do the same with Mahmud Asrar via his Instagram and Blueksy . Other Relevant Links to This Week's Episode: The Beat: Did Jack Kirby Really Say, "Comics Will Break Your Heart, Kid?" The Beat: Kirby's War
Wed, January 29, 2025
John Harris Dunning on Ripperland
Time is inescapable -- as if we need to explain that to anyone living in January 2025. However, our listeners who've been paying attention to our podcast this past month know the tyrannical clock is particularly present in our imagination. This preoccupation began with this week's conversation about Ripperland with John Harris Dunning, which we recorded in December last year and has been informing nearly every episode we've released since. Dunning co-wrote Ripperland with Steve Orlando, and it's illustrated by Alessandro Oliveri, colored by Francesca Vivaldi, and lettered by Fabio Amelia. The comic is set in 2188, three hundred years after Jack the Ripper terrorized London. In exchange for financial and military aid, England has given itself over to America, transforming into a gargantuan Victorian theme park. While no dinosaurs go on a rampage, a Jack the Ripper impersonator does. Enter American Special Agent Jesse Holden and local British Police Detective Edwin Fogg. Ripperland is a cracking good time but carries a sharp, damning wit. For as obsessed about Jack the Ripper as we are, we don't really understand or appreciate the reality surrounding the horrific murders that occurred in Whitechapel in 1888. It's a vicious, societal spook story in which storytellers of every medium - prose, song, cinema, comics - return repeatedly and readers hungrily accept. What does that say about the giver and the receiver? We discuss Jack the Ripper's hold on our planet with John Harris Dunning and how exploring the past from a position of the future creates a tantalizing mental exercise. Does fate damn us to repeat our mistakes, or are we just too stupid to learn? Ripperland #1 is currently on sale from Dark Horse Comics , and issue two will arrive in shops on February 26th. To continue this conversation with John Harris Dunning, follow him on Instagram and Bluesky . Other Relevant Links to This Week's Episode: Patreon Exclusive: John Harris Dunning on Spider-Woman #50 <a hre
Wed, January 22, 2025
CBCC Book Club: Rick Quinn and Dave Chisholm on Spectrum 2
They're back! Writer Rick Quinn and artist Dave Chisholm return to the podcast to discuss Spectrum #2 , the second issue in their science fiction tour through an alternate musical history. As the plot reveals itself, adding new elements and several more splash pages, we dig deeper into its characters, emotions, and references. Adding this conversation atop our previous one about the first issue, we're building something grand - a comic book dissection as we've never done before - so we might as well officially make it a Book Club and invite everyone listening to join in on the comics summit. Have you read Spectrum #1 ? Have you read Spectrum #2 ? Do you have any thoughts? Do you have questions? We want to hear them! CLICK HERE and drop them into the comments. Next month, when we return to the podcast with Rick Quinn and Dave Chisholm, we'll work our way through them on the show. This is your chance to shape the conversation and connect with the big ideas about art these creators are exploring. Spectrum #2 introduces Ada Latimer, the retail warrior trying to keep her Unpopular Pop record store afloat. Within the comic's first few moments, she meets the reality-bending Melody from issue one and has a cosmic encounter that would curl Jack Kirby's toes. A quest is discovered, one that will slam Ada and Melody together as they search for a mythical music producer while battling a creature of song called Echo. Now, more than ever, community offers relief. We must find our people and love and fight by their side. For us, we feel the most connected when we're engaged with art, whether it takes the form of music, movies, or comic books. Creating a book club, determined to cover this series for the next five or so months, is an act of hope and optimism. And so is joining one. Spectrum #2 is now available from Mad Cave Studios , wherever rad comics are sold. Make sure you're following Dave Chisholm on his Website , TikTok , Instagram , and Bluesky . And follow Rick Quinn on his Website , Bluesky , and <a href='https
Wed, January 15, 2025
Patreon Preview: Tyler Crook on Mage - The Hero Discovered 6
In 2024, we published 58 Comic Book Couples Counseling episodes. However, that was not the total Comic Book Couples Counseling experience. Over on our Patreon , we published an additional 61 episodes, including our Married to Singles series, where we talk with comic book creators about their favorite single issues. In 2025, we'll make these a regular thing, starting with Tyler Crook this week, diving deep into his cherished Mage: The Hero Discovered #6 . Crook has appeared on the podcast multiple times, mostly exploring his exceptional Dark Horse Comics series, The Lonesome Hunters (links to those episodes below). He's a passionate, enthusiastic champion of this medium, and that devotion began at a very young age thanks to books like Mage : The Hero Discovered . We enjoyed this conversation with Crook about this comic so much that we've decided to drop it into the main podcast feed to entice some of you over to the CBCC Patreon, which we consider one of the most welcoming, loving comic book communities on the internet. Published by Comico in March of 1985, Mage: The Hero Discovered #6 landed just as the industry shifted. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #1 arrived the year before, while Watchmen and The Dark Knight Returns were just on the horizon. Comics were ready to celebrate themselves as thematically rich, adult entertainment. NOT. KIDS. STUFF. Mage : The Hero Discovered #6 was written and illustrated by Matt Wagner and features additional inks by Sam Kieth. The series follows Kevin Matchstick, who is basically a stand-in for Wagner, as he tumbles into a fantasy adventure where each obstacle represents some issue or situation from his own life. Be warned, our conversation with Tyler Crook spoils the entirety of the sixth issue, as well as some critical plot points from the rest of the series. Although, knowledge of those plot points won't ruin your overall reading experience if you decide to read after you've listened to the episode. We make the Comic Book Couples Counseling Patreon as cheap as we can. Our "Smitten Kitten" level costs only a dollar and gives you access to all the Patreon episodes. Our "Dearly Beloved" tier is $5, which grants you access to our Slack community. For the month of January, we're donating all proceeds made by our Patron to BINC ( The Book Industry Charitable Fou
Tue, January 07, 2025
Chip Zdarsky and David Brothers on Time Waits
New Year's always has us looking inward, hoping for a fresh start. Creating resolutions, however, causes too much pressure, so we prefer to announce our intentions and free ourselves from potential regret if/when we don't achieve them. Helping us through the yearly reboot process in 2025 are Chip Zdarsky and David Brothers, whose new DSTLRYcomic Time Waits , done in collaboration with artists Marcus To and Marvin Sianipar, colorist Matt Wilson, letterer Ariana Maher, and editor Allison O'Toole, is the perfect excuse to contemplate our past, present, and future. The comic centers on Blue, who only wishes to tend his garden, love his wife Grace, and finally adopt Duke as his son. Unfortunately, Blue is a man out of time, and the future he came from is desperate to reclaim him and the items he stole. Time Waits delivers on John Wick levels of action and Primer levels of paradox paranoia without skipping heaps of human relationship drama. Chip Zdarsky and David Brothers are one half of the Mangasplaining podcast team, and we are delighted to discuss how their online comics discussions have shaped their comics-making process. Given the time of year that this episode arrives in, we found ourselves being even more introspective than usual, and Zdarsky and Brothers were more than happy to follow us into such philosophical quandaries. The first two issues of Time Waits are now available from DSTLRY , while the third and final issue will arrive in comic book shops on 1/22. Also, make sure you're following them online by subscribing to Mangasplaining . Relevant Links to This Week's Episode: Mangasplaining co-hosts Deb Aoki and Christopher Woodrow-Butcher on CBCC Chip Zadarksy and Jason Loo discuss The All-Nighter on CBCC Final Round of Plugs (PHEW): Support the Podcast by Joining OUR PATREON COMMUNITY . <p id="95kkc
Fri, December 27, 2024
The Stampies: Best Comics of 2024 (Part Two)
We made it. Another trip around the sun. Congratulations, everyone. Let's celebrate with our final episode of the year, The Stampies: Best Comics of 2024 (Part Two) . In our final episode of 2024, we name the Best Comic of 2024 as well as several other cherished awards: Best Ongoing Series, Best Limited Series, Best Relaunch, Writer of the Year, Artist of the Year, etc. Maybe most significantly, we award the second annual Jesse Tappia II Champ Stamp Award , named after our good friend who no longer walks the Earth with us but certainly remains in our hearts as we cherish and promote this astonishing medium called comics. As in Part One , we asked journalists, podcasters, retailers, and creators to help us through the ceremony by selecting their favorite comics of 2024. You can just hit play and be surprised by who pops up, or take a quick scroll below and spoil yourself. Either way, make sure you follow them on their socials and partake in their good work. Also, thank them for joining in on our end-of-the-year shindig. It was super cool of them. 2024 was jammed with good books. Naming all the good ones in two episodes proved impossible. Watch this space because we'll publish the big list: The 50 Best Comics of 2025 at the very end of the year. The Best Comics of 2024 Part Two Timestamps: Writer of the Year - 11:02 Artist of the Year - 19:56 Best All-Ages Comic - 27:50 Best Young Adult Comic - 34:43 Best Limited Series - 40:46 Best Relaunch - 49:36 Best Ongoing - 58:52 Best Original Graphic Novel - 1:10:06 Best Digital Comic - 1:17:54 The Jesse Tappia II Champ Stamp Award - 1:20:43 Bonus Awards/"Rapid Fire" Round - 1:34:39 The Best Comics of 2024 (Part Two) Guest-Stars: <li
Fri, December 20, 2024
The Stampies: Best Comics of 2024 (Part One)
Comics will mend your heart. That's the energy we're taking into the new year and the thought we carried as we assembled The Stampies , our end-of-the-year award show celebrating The Best Comics of 2024 - ahem - (Part One) . Over the last six years, we've turned to comics to understand ourselves and the world around us better. They've guided us through tumultuous times, and we know we'll need them even more in the coming months and years. Our award show is very much OUR award show. We have peculiar tastes, and our favorite comics reflect that. Some categories stuck around from last year's ceremony , but with this episode in particular, you'll find several new ones, also. Next week's Part Two will be stacked with the more traditional Best Original Graphic Novel, Best Limited Series, Best Ongoing, etc. For The Best Comics of 2024 (Part One) , we get a little more cutesy with Best New Superhero and Best Murder Mystery, plus categories like Best First Issue and Best Single Issue. As has become tradition, we've asked our friends in journalism and podcasting to name their favorite books of the year. New to our 2024 celebrations, however, we've also asked a few retailers and comic book creators to contribute their favorite books. If you want to be spoiled about who will be guest-starring in today's podcast, scroll below. Please thank them by following their work and social media handles (and letting them know how much you enjoyed their contributions to the podcast). 2024 was another banger of a year regarding comics. Highlighting our favorites was more challenging than ever. The Stampies contain sixteen categories, with a few extra surprise categories tossed in during next week's show. That's simply not enough space to name all "the best" books from the year. So, keep your eyes trained on the Comic Book Couples Counseling website. At the very end of the year, we'll unleash our massive 50 Best Comics of 2024 list. The Best Comics of 2023 (Part One) Category Timestamps: Best Comic Book Couple - 12:14 Best Murder Mystery - 18:18 Best New Superhero - 25:54 Best Adaptation - 32:29 Best Co
Fri, December 13, 2024
J Holtham and Michael Lee Harris on Motherfukin Monsters
It's easy to claim your comic as " Evil Dead for Blerds," but accomplishing the cheeky elevator pitch is far more complex. Writer J. Holtham and artist Michael Lee Harris grab their inspiration from the iconic Sam Raimi splatstick horror franchise but do so in service of an entirely different purpose. Motherfu*kin Monsters rages with a political fire, throwing their protagonist into a university setting shrouded with white faces. Their JJ eagerly wants to find his place within this system, while his family stands skeptical, waiting for it to reveal a devilish intent. Of course, JJ's kin thought metaphorically, not the literal ghouls that quickly hunger for their flesh. Our conversation with J. Holtham and Michael Lee Harris begins with their love of Evil Dead , or Evil Dead II , more specifically. We start by exploring what the film does so well, for what reason, and why they were compelled to plant their mission atop it. Motherfu*kin Monsters is one helluva ride, filled with chills and thrills, but from page one, the comic also makes its anger known. J. Holtham and Michael Lee Harris, like all The Horizon Experiment stories, speak to the moment. Our hope is everyone reading is listening to what's on the page. In addition, our discussion addresses the economic realities of comics-making and comics-shopping in 2024. The Horizon Experiment 's pilot system still raises eyebrows in comic shops, but by embracing experimentation, the series removes one of the veils between creator and consumer. Honesty is the best policy, and we need to buy the comics we want to see in the world. It's cold, hard math...er, capitalism. So, remember, Motherfu*kin Monsters arrives in stores on December 18th, courtesy of Image Comics . Continue the conversation with J. Holtham by following him on Instagram . Also, follow Michael Lee Harris on Instagram . Other Relevant Links: CBCC/The Horizon Experiment: Pornsak Pichetshote and Terry Dodson on The Manchurian <a href='https://www.comicbookcouplescounsel
Mon, December 09, 2024
Vita Ayala and Skylar Patridge on Finders Keepers
It belongs in a museum? On this week's podcast, we chat with friends and collaborators Vita Ayala and Skylar Patridgeabout their new comic, Finders Keepers , and why they were compelled to tell a "reverse Indiana Jones." Like the other comics in The Horizon Experiment , Finders Keepers flips a classic genre trope on its head and knocks the dust and cobwebs from a well-trodden idea. The hook is powerfully compelling, but as you read through the one-shot, the reader also begins to understand there is much more to the concept below that initial subversive thrill. Robbing from colonizers and returning artifacts to their culture and context, but doing so with all the trappings of a great Indiana Jones story requires a deft hand with multiple genres. Given The Horizon Experiment 's pilot program, Vita Ayala and Skylar Patridge must also establish the concept and offer a grand promise of the story's possible future in just a few short pages. However, this challenge is not really different from any other comic book gig. The Horizon Experiment is merely more honest about these commercial practicalities. This week, we dig into all the demands of an Indiana Jones riff. We discuss with Vita Ayala and Skylar Patridge their collaborative process, the thrill of museum heists, and the difficulties of loving classic Hollywood adventure. FOC for Finders Keepers is TODAY (12/9), but the issue will arrive in comic book shops on January 15th. Continue this conversation by following Vita Ayala on Bluesky and their website . And follow Skylar Patridge on Bluesky , Instagram , and their website . Other Relevant Links: CBCC/The Horizon Experiment: Pornsak Pichetshote and Terry Dodson on The Manchurian The CBCC TeePublic Page <a href='https://www.comicbookcouplescounseling.com/post/comic-book-holiday-gi
Tue, December 03, 2024
Kami Garcia on Teen Titans: Starfire
After working through most of the Teen Titans, author Kami Garcia and artist Gabriel Picolo have finally reached the Tamaranean superhero, Starfire. Their latest collaboration finds Kori struggling to find her place amongst her peers while her sister Kira thrives in the environment. Kori strives for the stars above, but feels trapped in her Summer job and her body, especially after her Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (EDS) diagnosis. On this week's podcast, we chat with bestselling author Kami Garcia about Teen Titans : Starfire , how she found herself in the character, and why that allowed her to embrace her past and present self. Famously, Garcia began her writing career as a dare from her students, picking up the pen and proving to them (and herself) that she could tell a darn good story. We discuss the details of that dare, how her teaching life factors into her writing life, and why young adult fiction often becomes necessary all-ages fiction. Teen Titans : Starfire is now available wherever good comics are sold. You should follow Kami Garcia on Instagram , Bluesky , and her website . However, before we dive into our Teen Titans conversations, we discuss the impending holiday season and the gift-giving stress that comes with it. We believe wholeheartedly that there is a comic for everyone in your life, and the trick is figuring out what that comic is. In an effort to help you and us, we've assembled our annual Comic Book Holiday Gift Guide . We discuss our philosophy around comic book gift-giving and a few of our favorite items from the list. Other Relevant Links: The CBCC TeePublic Page The CBCC Comic Book Holiday Gift Guide Final Round of Plugs (PHEW): <p id="viewer-viewer-viewer-viewer-viewer-viewer-viewer-viewer-viewer-viewer-viewer-viewer-viewer-viewer-viewer-viewer-viewer-viewer-viewer-viewer-viewer-viewer-viewer-viewer-viewer-viewer-viewer-viewer-viewer-viewer-viewer-viewer-viewer-vi
Tue, November 26, 2024
Tom King and Ryan Sook on Black Canary: Best of the Best
We don't know how to feel about violence as sports entertainment, but we cannot deny how much we love stories that center their emotional conflicts inside a ring. With their new series, Black Canary : Best of the Best , Tom King and Ryan Sook join the long tradition of tearing into internal torment by subjecting protagonists to regulated gladiatorial combat. Dinah Lance versus Lady Shiva, let's get ready to rumble. The first issue of the new series arrives in stores Wednesday (11/27). We won't spoil it here, but those pages will reveal some of the motivations for why Dinah, the second-best fighter in the DC universe, would subject herself to the fists of the single-best fighter. It has something to do with the first woman to don the Black Canary mantle - her mother. Yup, this is a Tom King comic, so you know Black Canary : Best of the Best must feature a twisty, prickly core relationship. This week's episode explores why the ring is such a compelling story engine. We discuss how Tom King was initially enticed to place Black Canary alongside other brutal fictional bouts like Rocky , Raging Bull , The Set-Up , The Big Blow , and yeah, Best of the Best . Ryan Sook takes us through his process of understanding the physicality of boxing, wrestling, and MMA while contemplating their bloody nature. And why has it taken King so long to tackle the mother/daughter dynamic? To continue this conversation, follow Tom King on Bluesky , Threads , and Instagram . Follow Ryan Sook on Instagram . Other Relevant Links: The CBCC TeePublic Page Tom King on CBCC: All In Special and Wonder Woman Tom King on CBCC: Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow - Full Spoilers Final Round of Plugs (PHEW): <p id="g13s15960"
Tue, November 19, 2024
Dave Chisholm and Rick Quinn on Spectrum #1
Art finds us when we need it most. Spectrum , the new Mad Cave Studios series from creators Dave Chisholm and Rick Quinn, is an astonishing sci-fi saga that begins inside the Seattle WTO protests of 1999 and propels its characters into a realm where music grants flight. The central character, Melody, can't quite discern what's real and what's not - a sensation you may very well be familiar with at this moment - seeing impossible beings floating amongst the crowds. Powers from within and without compel her on a journey that operates as the best geeky musical Where's Waldo for the reader who is willing. Y'all ready for the MTV version of The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen ? Y'all remember MTV? We're already so obsessed with Spectrum that we've committed to a series of six podcast episodes, one for each new issue. Thankfully, Dave Chisholm and Rick Quinn are also up for this pop culture plunge. They join us for an excavation of sound and a discussion on the song's importance in our daily lives and how they miraculously transplanted one artistic expression into another. Spectrum is waiting for your eyes. You merely need to put them upon it and join this book's inevitable cult following. Make sure to alert your comic shop of its existence. Slap it in your pullbox. Be part of this book's success, as it's unlike anything else on the stands. Here's your chance to be the snooty person in the shop, claiming your crown as one of Spectrum 's first converted followers. The first issue arrives on 11/20, and the second drops on 1/8/2025. Make sure you're following Dave Chisholm on his Website , TikTok , Instagram , and Bluesky . And follow Rick Quin on his Wesbiste and Instagram . Other Relevant Links: The Trevor Project or call 1-866-488-7386 for gender-affirming and queer-friendly support. Dave Chisholm on CBCC - Talking Miles Davis
Tue, November 12, 2024
FML with Kelly Sue DeConnick
What a difference a week can make, huh? When we recorded our conversation with Kelly Sue DeConnick, we were still weeks away from the American election, but now, here we are, living in its aftermath. We couldn't have been the only ones with three little letters rattling around our brains these last batch of days. FML . You're damn right. Kelly Sue DeConnick's new comic, done in collaboration with artist David López, colorist Cris Peter, and letterer Clayton Cowles, is very much about managing your life and your family's lives while the world around you burns. What was once relatable has suddenly transformed into our bloody lifeline. Call it a coincidence. Call it fate. Whatever, we needed this comic at this moment. FML #1 hit shelves last week, courtesy of Dark Horse Comics . At its center is teenager Riley, a heavy metal monster movie maniac eager for his journey to begin as the pandemic and rampaging forest fires threaten to snuff it out. His mom, Patty, used to be cool, but now she's just a mom - going through her own existential crisis. The everyday world is hard enough for them, but then a ritual during a party goes sideways, and suddenly, witchcraft and monsters are no longer so fanciful. Kelly Sue DeConnick is an artist we've admired for years. We never miss a comic with her name on it, and we get an extra buzz of excitement when it's a creator-owned expression. FML is a deeply personal narrative mirroring DeConnick's experience, but it's not a replica. We dive into the challenges of springboarding fiction from reality, discussing how her family responds to her fiction and how FML became a necessary endeavor. Be sure to follow her Instagram . In our introduction, we also discuss how art can shape action and how action absorbs anxiety. All we have is each other. We must watch our backs and stand when it feels so easy to lie down. Democracy is a fragile notion, but there are organizations that are built to fight alongside us. Please consider these charities: The Trevor Project RAINN American Library Association </
Mon, November 04, 2024
NYCC '24: Cliff Chiang, Jason Aaron, Juan Ferreyra, and Patrick Horvath
Two weeks later, we're still recovering from New York Comic Con 2024 . This may have been our third year attending, but we've never experienced a comic convention quite like this one, and it may take a few more months before we've actually processed everything that happened. A major factor differentiating this event from any that came before was our new gig hosting the Harvey Awards . So, we spend the first half of today's episode taking you behind the scenes of this event, detailing what you can't see when you watch the ceremony online ( via Popverse ). We're talking wardrobe malfunctions, deodorant hockey play, iPad snafus, and the delightful success of celebrating the best the comics medium has to offer while doing so during Harvey Kurtzman's centennial. Within the episode's back half, we're diving deep into Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and Beneath the Trees Where Nobody Sees . We chat with artist Cliff Chiang about his time on the recent third issue. We explore Leonardo's existential crisis in India, Spaghetti Western action, and whether or not we can expect Cliff Chiang back on the book. Jason Aaron also returns to the podcast, but this time, he's brought the recently announced artist for the arc following "Return to New York" with him, Juan Ferreyra. As we gaze over Ferreyra's pages for issue six, we detail the perfect TMNT New York City, the heartbreak coming the Brothers's way, and the gauntlet they'll run upon their return to the Big Apple. Patrick Horvath is also back to close out the show. Beneath the Trees Where Nobody Sees is one of the comics' recent great successes, and few have hit the comic convention circuit as hard as Horvath. We chat about his time on the road, what he can teach us about con life, and what we can expect from the upcoming Beneath the Trees Where Nobody Sees sequel, Rite of Spring . Make sure you're following all these folks on their respective social media platforms. Find Cliff Chiang on Twitter , Instagram , and on the website . Find Jason Aaron on Twitter , Instagram , and his <a href='https://www.j
Tue, October 29, 2024
Michael Allred, The Monkees, and Marvel (with Special Guest Star Laura Allred)
It doesn't take long to recognize pop culture's influence on the work of Michael Allred. Whether we're talking Madman , X-Statix , or Silver Surfer , his comics radiate his passion for music, art, and life. Some references are easy to spot, a few a little trickier, and others impossible unless you know the man personally. For us, his comics mostly equal comfort, a place to rush into and join for an hour or a bit longer. We adore many of Michael Allred's influences. So, our primary mission on this week's podcast was to dig thoroughly into one particular shared obsession, the nineteen-sixties boy band sensation, The Monkees . If you know Lisa, you're not at all surprised. If this is your first time listening to Comic Book Couples Counseling , you may need a touch more context. We'll get into it. Clover Press is currently crowdfunding The Marvel Art of Michael Allred on Kickstarter ( Click Here To Check It Out ). It's an enormous hardcover book showcasing Allred's greatest achievements within the House of Ideas, including our beloved Silver Surfer, but it's also peppered with pieces you may have missed over the years. As an avid art book collector, Michael Allred knows what fanatics like himself crave in such tomes, and he was determined to deliver the goods to the like-minded. Today's episode is a conversation we never imagined having when we launched the podcast, but considering how our show began with Norrin Radd and Dawn Greenwood, this surprise actually feels like the logical next chapter in our weird relationship experiment. It's even more special when, halfway through our conversation with Michael Allred, we're joined by his loving wife and collaborator, Laura Allred. We discuss how The Monkees simmer within every Michael Allred panel, the long-lasting effects of his collaboration with Dan Slott on Silver Surfer , how Michael and Laura learned to work together, and what an art book can mean when constructed with passion and thoughtful consideration. As of this writing, The Marvel Art of Michael Allred has seventeen days left in its Kickstarter campaign. Act quickly. Also, be sure to follow Michael Allred on Twitter , Instagram , and his website . <
Thu, October 17, 2024
Kelley Jones and Matt Wagner on Dracula: The Brides
Dracula permeates everything. Before we're five years old, we know his story. It's baked into the cultural imagination. However, if you were to hold that story up to the light, you'd immediately notice a lot of holes. In Bram Stoker's iconic work, Dracula appears less frequently than you would think, and his backstory is referenced in short bursts and shrouded in mystery. His tale is perfect fodder for artists Kelley Jones and Matt Wagner to sink their teeth into. Last year, they published Dracula - Book One : The Impaler through Orlok Press via Kickstarter. The hardcover has spent months in the hands of readers (ours included), and its trade paperback release from Dark Horse Comics is set for October 22nd. With the first chapter complete, exploring Dracula's pre-vampire days, set primarily during his time at the Scholomance, aka his unpaid internship with the devil, Jones and Wagner are ready to unleash volume two, Dracula : The Brides . Their latest entry covers centuries, focusing on how Dracula came into contact with the iconic trio, who get pages in Stoker's book but have seared their way into every adaptation. Who are they? What do they mean to Dracula? What happened to the fourth Bride? Dracula : The Brides will take Kelley Jones and Matt Wagner right up until the moment Bram Stoker's novel begins. This means their next chapter dissects the classic and exposes what the Impaler was up to when the other characters were not paying attention. We happily dig into Dracula with Kelley Jones and Matt Wagner on the podcast. We discuss the title character's relationship with romance, women, and blood. We uncover Jones and Wagner's compulsion to tell this story and why comics were always the best fit for it. Dracula : The Brides has fifteen days left on its Kickstarter campaign. Please visit the crowdfunding project by clicking HERE . You can continue the conversation with Kelley Jones by visiting his Twitter and Instagram . You can follow Matt Wagner on Twitter and <a href='https://www.instagram.com/mattwagnerc
Tue, October 15, 2024
Ben Clarkson and Matt Bors on Justice Warriors: Vote Harder
Hey, you. Stop doom scrolling. You've landed where you belong. Ben Clarkson and Matt Bors return to Comic Book Couples Counseling with another Justice Warriors book, Vote Harder . And they're back just when we need them most, weeks away from a critical, very American election. As in the best romantic comedies, Swamp Cop and Officer Schitt are torn apart early on in Justice Warrior s: Vote Harder . Bubble City embarks on its first-ever election, and it's doing something strange to its populace. They're trapped with a ballot George Orwell wouldn't wish on his most hated dystopia, and the city's most horrendous Bad Boys are the only ones who can save the day. Best of luck, citizens. Justice Warriors : Vote Harder is another vicious satire skewering contemporary society while highlighting the damned, nothing-new, never-ending cycle of corruption. Do you think your hell is the most hell that's ever hell'ed? Nah. It's the same old hell. It's only new to you. Eagerly, we lean into Ben Clarkson and Matt Bors, trying to discern any wisdom they've gained by plunging themselves into the world of Justice Warriors : Vote Harder . We continue to explore satire's purpose, why two dumb protagonists are the heroes we deserve, and how The Matrix Reloaded deserves a second viewing, if not a third, fourth, and fifth. Justice Warriors : Vote Harder is now available in trade paperback from Ahoy Comics . Follow Matt Bors on Twitter , Instagram , and his Website . Follow Ben Clarkson on Twitter , Instagram , and his Website . Other Relevant Links: Pots and Panels: A Comic Cook Book Anthology Kickstarter Page The Comics Courier Kickstarter Page <a href='https://www.com
Fri, October 11, 2024
Tiffany Babb on The Comics Courier
In this article, the top ten reasons why reading comics criticism will increase your sex drive. Yeah, that's right, we need your clicks! We live in an apocalypse where thoughtful online comics criticism decreases in value every minute. However, you know comics criticism is essential to the industry's ecosystem and community because you're an intelligent person. All we need is a champion to keep this art form alive, and it is an art form, and she has arrived - Tiffany Babb. She's shaking The Comics Courier from every street corner in every neighborhood. The new tabloid-sized newspaper is currently seeking funding via Kickstarter. Within it are essays and reviews from critics Douglas Wolk, Hassan Otsmane-Elhaou, Tiffany Babb, Dave Baker, Carrie McClain, Sean Dillon, Kat Calamia, Liam McGuire, Jim McDermott, Lillie Hochwender, Lisa Gullickson and Brad Gullickson. Oh, yeah, we're in this beauty too, and we're honored to participate in Tiffany Babb's first Comics Courier because we believe so firmly in its existence. Even more exciting, Babb joins us on today's episode to discuss The Comics Courier , what compelled her to bring it into our reality, the value of comics criticism, and the future she imagines for it. The Kickstarter has already more than doubled its funding, but that doesn't mean you should miss your chance to be a part of this historic moment. Find The Comics Courier Kickstarter here . Continue the conversation with Tiffany Babb by following her on Twitter , Instagram , and her Website . Other Relevant Links: Pots and Panels: A Comic Book Anthology Kickstarter Page Brad and Lisa on Off Panel Brad and Lisa on Comic Book Yeti's Cryptid Creator Corner <a href='https://comi
Wed, October 09, 2024
Full-Spoilers: Nick Dragotta on Absolute Batman
It's been a trip to get to this moment. Since we saw Nick Dragotta's design for Absolute Batman , an intense anticipation took hold of us. However, if you think it's been a long journey from our Batman AF introduction at San Diego Comic-Con , it's been an even longer and more thoughtful one for Dragotta and his collaborator Scott Snyder. They've noodled over this new DC pocket universe for over a year, and now that we're all holding the first issue in our hands, we can take comfort in knowing these two have thoroughly considered, plotted, and designed the character and his world. Before you press play on today's episode, you must read Absolute Batman #1 . Our conversation with Nick Dragotta is full-spoilers. Yes, we discuss the changes made to Batman's origin and the issue's final page with its revelatory inversion. We dig into how the Absolute updates better reflect contemporary society while still showcasing what makes Batman Batman. Once again, we're asking, if you tested this Batman's DNA, would it match the main continuity Batman? If the form is the same, and the function is different, how do Scott Snyder and Nick Dragotta maintain what's essential about the character? When does a Batman cease being a Batman? Before all of that, we also explore Nick Dragotta's ideal Batman. Where and how did he first meet the character? Who does Batman better than anyone else? Was David Mazzucchelli's Batman: Year One Artist Edition an emergency purchase? Continue this conversation with Nick Dragotta by following him on Instagram . The first issue of Absolute Batman is now available from DC Comics. The second issue will arrive in comic book shops on November 13th. Other Relevant Links: Pots and Panels: A Comic Book Anthology Kickstarter Page The Comics Courrier Kickstarter Page <p id
Mon, October 07, 2024
17 Minutes and 43 Seconds with Chris Claremont
This week's episode is a full-circle moment. We began our podcast five years ago, discussing the romantic entanglements between Scott Summers and Jean Grey as depicted in The Dark Phoenix Saga . Now, we're honored, and in a bit of disbelief, to welcome writer Chris Claremont onto the show. His contributions to the medium have been some of the most significant to our collective imagination, and they directly inspired the personal journey the two of us have been on these last handful of years. Today's conversation directly results from our new partnership with The Harvey Awards , one of the comic industry's oldest and most prestigious ceremonies. As we announced a few days ago via various social media channels, we will host The Harveys this year at the New York Comic Con on October 18th. As individuals who see themselves as champions of comics and those who make them, we're thrilled to accept the responsibility and honor this institution's great work of recognizing outstanding achievement in our most beloved art form. After we got the assignment, The Harveys asked if we wanted to speak with last year's Hall of Fame inductee, Chris Claremont. Never have we answered "Yes!" so quickly. Claremont's time is precious. We caught him in the middle of some serious travel plans and even more serious comic deadlines, but he was gracious enough to find a few minutes to squeeze us into his schedule: seventeen minutes and forty-three seconds, to be precise. With time limited, we set forth on a mission to discuss his thought bubble philosophy. The conversation, however, steers almost immediately into a creator's unique relationship with their creation. We discuss Chris Claremont's evolution as a writer, how he sees the reality of the job, and what he ultimately wants to accomplish with his words. You can stay updated with all things Chris Claremont by following him on Instagram and through his website . Other Relevant Links: Pots and Panels: A Comic Book Anthology Kickstarter Page The
Mon, September 30, 2024
Patrick McDonnell on Mutts and the Guard Dog Story
If you think comic books and their audience resist continuity changes, you must consider the death grip comic strips have on their characters. Charlie Brown was never allowed to kick the football and was also denied a wardrobe. His life sentence was that yellow shirt. Mutts cartoonist Patrick McDonnell accepts the pressures of his medium and believes there is nirvana in its structure. However, in the case of certain characters, he knew he had to free them of their decades-long consistency. Guard Dog needed off his tether, and Doozy needed Guard Dog in her home. As Mutts reached toward its 30th anniversary, Patrick McDonnell plotted Guard Dog's freedom. Over seven weeks, the story played out in the papers and it's now collected by Abrams ComicArts in the new hardcover Breaking the Chain : The Guard Dog Story . McDonnell saw how denying Charlie Brown satisfaction caused pain for his friend Charles M. Schulz, and he did not want that for himself. With Guard Dog released, he can tell new stories and create new missions for his characters and readers. This week on the podcast, Patrick McDonnell joins us for a Mutts celebration. We discuss why it took him so long to unite Guard Dog and Doozy. He explains the power of long-form storytelling in comic strips and the spirituality the practice of daily creating awoke in him. We found the conversation vital and are eager to share it with you. Follow Mutts on Twitter and Instagram , and sign up for the Daily Mutts strip HERE. Other Relevant Links: Pots and Panels: A Comic Book Anthology Kickstarter Page The Pots and Panels Website The Comics Courrier Kickstarter Pre-Launch Page Final Round of Plugs (PHEW): <p id="viewer-viewer-
Tue, September 24, 2024
Batman: City of Madness - The Ultimate Christian Ward Interview
Racing on the heels of Batman Day, we celebrate eighty-five years of the Caped Crusader by finally digging into one of our recent favorite Dark Knight stories, Batman : City of Madness by Christian Ward. Technically, this is our third conversation with Ward about this particular story, but it's the first one where we can dig into it page-by-page, going full spoilers and properly exploring its characters and themes. The hardcover is now available from DC Comics, so please grab your copy, snuggle up with it, and venture into the Gotham Below with us. Batman : City of Madness spent years percolating inside Christian Ward's imagination. It extends from his infatuation with an iconic work, Arkham Asylum : A Serious House on a Serious Earth . It operates like a spiritual sequel but comes jammed with personal touches that only Ward could contribute. Our worst selves will argue for their survival. That's just one revelation we land upon while chatting with Christian Ward in this episode. We discuss the initial Gotham Below concept by starting at its end, the purpose of mirroring Batman and his rogues, and how it ideologically prepares readers for his newly announced Two-Face series, which will drop on December 4th. Continue this conversation with Christian Ward by visiting his Website and following him on Twitter and Instagram . Other Relevant Links: Our First Chat with Christian Ward About Batman: City of Madness Patreon Exclusive: Christian Ward on Arkham Asylum: A Serious House on A Serious Earth The Comics Courrier Kickstarter Pre-Launch Page Pots and Panels: A Comic Book Anthology Kickstarter Pre-Launch Page <a href='https://potsandpanels.com/
Mon, September 16, 2024
Scott Snyder on Absolute Batman
The instant the internet glimpsed Nick Dragotta's bold, BIG design for Absolute Batman , it lost its mind. Since the initial San Diego Comic-Con reveal, emotions have intensified around it, and the fan art has flowed like a dam burst. The first issue is still weeks away, but Final Order Cutoff is here (TODAY!), and Scott Snyder joins the podcast to discuss why they had to go thicc with the Bat. Absolute Batman is a radical reimagining based on the way our world is now. Bruce Wayne has no fortune in this new alternate timeline, which spins out of Absolute Power and The All In Special . This Batman's origin is familiar but has shifted just enough, so Snyder and Dragotta can speak to contemporary fears. How we observe the gun in 2024 differs significantly from how we observed it in 1939 when Batman first appeared. The same goes for billionaires and how they spend their money. What if Batman is what Joker always claims to be? The agent of chaos, born from horror to disrupt a corrupt order. The DNA is the same as the Bruce Wayne stalking the shadows in the main continuity, but the circumstances diverge drastically. Absolute Batman strips the Dark Knight of his financial crutch and, in doing so, highlights his essential truth. We begin our conversation with Scott Snyder by discussing how the Absolute Batman launch is similar to and different from The New 52 reboot. We question whether Batman is Batman without his money and why Bruce Wayne's relationship with his rogues also had to diverge from the usual continuity. Does Dick Grayson get mentioned? How about Batgirl? Joe Chill? Yes, yes, and yes. The first issue of Absolute Batman , published by DC , written by Scott Snyder, illustrated by Nick Dragotta, colored by Frank Martin, and lettered by Clayton Cowles, hits comic book shops on October 9th. Follow Scott Snyder on Twitter and Instagram , and subscribe to his Substack . Other Relevant Links: Previously on CBCC: S
Tue, September 10, 2024
Alex Ross and Steve Darnall on Uncle Sam
Sneak into any comic book geek's home, and you'll probably find copies of Marvels and Kingdom Come . What about Uncle Sam , though? The series hit shops in 1997 from DC's Vertigo label, and it sparked provocative thought from those who read it, but for whatever reason, it did not resonate as soundly within the direct market crowd as Alex Ross' more recognizably superheroic collaborations. It's time to reconsider Uncle Sam , just in time. We're months away from a critical American election as of this writing. The stakes are high. Our fears are even more so. Democracy is under threat and as fragile as it always has been. There is the America we tell people about and the America we actually live inside. There is the dream, and there are the dreamers. Uncle Sam , written by Steve Darnall and illustrated by Alex Ross, challenges its readers to accept our America and its violent history while encouraging us to shape it into what we want it to be. Yes, it's depressing to encounter a tale published in 1997 that's relevant to 2024 readers. The depression is the point. Democracy is a neverending battle; the only cure for exhaustion and apathy is action. Uncle Sam is what filmmaker Boots Riley would call a "rallying cry." Let's circle it, make community, and do something. Hope is not passive; it's active. We're beyond delighted to have Alex Ross back on the podcast this week. This time, he's joined by his writing partner, Steve Darnall, and we dig deep into Uncle Sam . What was their compulsion to explore this icon, why are they fighting to bring their book back into bookstores, and how would they write Uncle Sam today? In our introduction, we also celebrate the life of artist John Cassaday, who left us far too soon at 52. Cassaday profoundly impacted our early comic reading relationship, bringing us together and launching our Graphic Novel Book Club, which we consider Comic Book Couples Counseling Version 1.0. The artist represents the best of what this medium can do, and his legacy lives on in us, his readers, and those who create in his wake. Our heart breaks for his friends and his family, and we offer them our love and gratitude for sharing John with us while they could. Uncle Sam is now available from Abrams Comic Arts and DC's Black Label . You can find Alex Ross on his <a href='
Tue, September 03, 2024
Daniel Warren Johnson and Riley Rossmo on The Moon Is Following Us
When cartoonists like Daniel Warren Johnson and Riley Rossmo come together, the rest of us better take notice. The Moon Is Following Us drops its first issue on September 18th, and it's a jam comic with a fierce narrative engine and an even more assertive take-notice paint job. Set within the waking and sleeping worlds, Johnson handles the former while Rossmo takes the latter. The relationship between the two creates an electric reading experience not found anywhere else on the stands. From a script by Johnson, The Moon Is Following Us sees young Penny fall into a sleeping sickness. She won't wake. Her parents, Duncan and Sam, plunge into her dreams and wage war against the Cascade, an evil, unknowable force. However, what these beasts are really doesn't matter. All Duncan and Sam need to know is that they stand in the way between them and their child. In this week's podcast, we chat with Daniel Warren Johnson and Riley Rossmo about their new collaboration, why it's been in the works for a very long time, and what creatures they're fighting on the page every day. We uncover secret connections to a beloved children's series, discuss humanity's relationship with dreams, and the most anxiety-inducing comics that neither Johnson nor Rossmo have been able to shake. The Moon Is Following Us #1 arrives from Image Comics on 9/18. Be sure you're following Daniel Warren Johnson on Twitter , Instagram , and his Website . Follow Riley Rossmo on Twitter , Instagram , and his Website . Other Relevant Links: CBCC on Martian Manhunter by Riley Rossmo and Steve Orlando Daniel Warren Johnson on Beta Ray Bill Daniel Warren Johnson on Do a Powerbomb!<
Thu, August 29, 2024
Heather Antos and Ryan North on Star Trek: Lower Decks
We did it. We've completed our San Diego Comic-Con coverage. Twelve podcasts in August. Too much? Maybe, but no regrets, and there is no better way to wrap up our Comic-Con celebrations than with Star Trek group editor Heather Antos and superstar writer Ryan North discussing Star Trek : Lower Decks and its new mission at IDW Publishing. Since its streaming premiere, we've championed Star Trek : Lower Decks as the most human Trek. While it's wickedly funny, frequently teasing the ultra seriousness in which we hold the franchise, Lower Decks laughs with the characters and concepts, never at them. The show and its showrunner, Mike McMahan, have tremendous reverence for the Star Trek that's come before, and his love for it shines through every frame. The upcoming fifth and final season, which begins on October 24th, has us feeling a little weepy. However, there's no reason to fret. IDW is relaunching the Star Trek : Lower Decks comic book series with a new number one on November 13th, and on October 22nd, there will also be a brand new graphic novel called Warp Your Own Way. Both are written by Ryan North ( The Unbeatable Squirrel Girl , Fantastic Four ), and IDW Star Trek group editor Heather Antos oversees it all. At San Diego Comic-Con , we sat down with North and Antos to discuss our mutual admiration for Star Trek : Lower Decks . We talk about its placement within the franchise, what they can do in the comics that McMahan and company cannot accomplish on television, and where this series may take the crew of the U.S.S. Cerritos . Also, how does contributing to Star Trek affect their perspective as creators and, well, just as humans? Continue this conversation by following Heather Antos on Twitter , Instagram , and her Website , as well as Ryan North on Twitter , Instagram , and his website . Other Relevant Links: CBCC at SDCC 2024: Hall H with Bryan Young (Patreon Exclusive)<
Tue, August 27, 2024
Pornsak Pichetshote and Terry Dodson on The Manchurian
Hey, don't tell us. We'll tell you. The suits who bankroll the industry think they know what we want to read. They have no idea. Marginalizing voices is an active pursuit where financial concerns are frequently used as an excuse. The Horizon Experiment has faith in us, placing its future in our wallets, betting we'll support originality in genres gatekept by the fearful. Their first one-shot, The Manchurian , carries an irresistible premise steered expertly by Pornsak Pichetshoteand Terry Dodson. Published by Image Comics, The Manchurian lands in comic book stores on September 25th (its FOC is September 2nd). The elevator pitch champions a Chinese James Bond. Look at the header image above. Terry and Rachel Dodson are going full-Daniel Craig in Casino Royale or Ursula Andress in Dr. No . We've read the first issue and can confirm fashion, sex, violence, and unconquerable charisma. However, beyond the Bond basics, The Manchurian follows a perspective never explored by 007: corporate espionage as handled by Chinese Communist agents. Just as all of us were recovering from San Diego Comic-Con , we spoke with Pornsak Pichetshote and Terry Dodson about The Horizon Experiment , their twist on the spy sub-genre, and the four other radical one-shots riding on their heels. We discuss the pilot program The Horizon Experiment employs and how it's not really different from how comics always operate. We chat about capturing the Bond vibe without being chained to it and how competition amongst peers is as much a trap as anything else. Make sure you continue this conversation by following Pornsak Pichetshote on Twitter and Instagram . Also, follow Terry Dodson on Twitter , Instagram , and his Website . Other Relevant Links: Pornsak Pichetshote and Jesse Lonergan on Man's Best CBCC at SDCC 2024: Hall H with Bryan Young (Patreon Exclusive) <p id="viewer-v
Sat, August 24, 2024
JP Ahonen on Belzebubs
Once upon a time, cartoonist JP Ahonen fell out of love with his art. He'd reached a wall. It was burnout. He'd lost the joy found in creation. Then, he just started to doodle, and an Inktober project became a runaway success. Belzebubs , the saga of a black metal family, significantly inspired by Calvin and Hobbes , sprung from his brain, and there is no stuffing it back in. These odd little outsiders reignited something inside Ahonen, but more importantly, Belzebubs ignited something in its readers. The audience appeared quickly and grew even faster. The webcomic has crossed over into other mediums and will soon be an animated series. Top Shelf Productions published two beautifully bound hardcovers, and we've latched onto them, proclaiming ourselves as rabid groupies. Every San Diego Comic-Con introduces us to some new passion; this year, it's Belzebubs . After devouring the two hardcovers, inside the Hilton Bayfront, we eagerly chatted with JP Ahonen about his Belzebubs origins. We discuss how these characters came to him at a critical moment in his life and taught him to love comics again. And then, they took on a life of their own. Now, it's your turn to join the cult. Follow JP Ahonen on Instagram and his Website . Other Relevant Links: CBCC at SDCC 2024: Hall H with Bryan Young (Patreon Exclusive) CBCC at SDCC 2024: Gail Simone CBCC at SDCC 2024: Jason Aaron on TMNT #1 CBCC at SDCC 2024: Wes Craig on Kaya <p id="viewer-viewer
Thu, August 22, 2024
James Tynion IV and The Tiny Onion Empire
In a few short years, James Tynion IV has become a beacon within comics. When you walk into a shop, you don't have to look long before you stumble upon one of his comics. He's seemingly everywhere, spreading beyond the four color realm, and no matter the title he's attached to, it's worth a perusal. Back in July, at San Diego Comic-Con , we sat down with Tynion inside the Dark Horse Comics booth to discuss the unique collaborative process that birthed The Oddly Pedestrian Life of Christopher Chaos . The conversation serves as a springboard to more significant topics, primarily the mission of his Tiny Onion label. How does Tynion feel about the industry today, and where would he like to see it go in the future? We discuss Christopher Chaos ' origins, his creative relationship with Tate Brombal and Isaac Goodhart, and what this book offers that seemingly similar stories don't. We talk about his recent short film Room Service and why he was compelled to make it alongside Elsa Charretier and others. James Tynion IV is a profoundly passionate artist who'd rather speed up than slow down. Continue this conversation with James Tynion IV by following him on Instagram , Twitter , Substack , and his Website . Other Relevant Links: James Tynion IV and Martin Simmonds on CBCC Cecil Castellucci - I Am The Comic Book CBCC at SDCC 2024: Hall H with Bryan Young (Patreon Exclusive) CBCC at SDCC 2024: Gail Simone <a href
Mon, August 19, 2024
Mark Waid and Mariko Tamaki on Batman, Superman, and Supergirl
At this year's San Diego Comic-Con , the family was at the forefront of DC creators' minds. We couldn't escape the topic when discussing superheroics. Plus, we've been pretty anxious on the podcast, contemplating the ramifications of city saviors placing their loved ones above the citizens of Gotham City and Metropolis. Does the person on the street want Superman to have a son? A wife? A cousin? Thankfully, we can corner Mark Waid and Mariko Tamaki at the DC booth and force them to process our ridiculous worries. In October, Mark Waid and Chris Samnee return to the early days of Bruce Wayne and Dick Grayson in Batman and Robin: Year One . The twelve-issue maxi-series promises to delve into their unique relationship, revealing how Bruce Wayne learned to parent while keeping Joker behind bars. During the same month, Waid and Mariko Tamaki will share Action Comics as the Superman ongoing goes weekly. Waid, alongside artist Clayton Henry, will focus on Kal-El's problems post- Absolute Power while Mariko Tamaki and artist Skler Partridge continue their deep dive into Supergirl's inner life. For the first half of today's episode, we speak with Mark Waid two-on-one, digging into Bruce and Dick's getting-to-know-you phase. We discuss Bruce's lack of familial role models, his inability or unwillingness to see Alfred as a father, and how he wanted Absolute Power to speak to the moment. In the back half, we have both Mark Waid and Mariko Tamaki on our microphone. We then focus on the Superman family, paying particular attention to Supergirl and the secrets Tamaki is unveiling to her readers. The first issue of Batman and Robin: Year One lands in comic shops on October October 16th. Mark Waid and Mariko Tamaki join Action Comics on issue 1070, which arrives on October 9th. Continue our conversation by following Mark Waid via his Website . Follow Mariko Tamaki on Twitter and Instagram . Other Relevant Links: Mark Waid on Lazarus Planet CBCC at SDCC 2024: H
Fri, August 16, 2024
Ram V on Jack Kirby and The New Gods
This year's San Diego Comic-Con brought a lot of news. Possibly the most surprising and easily the most exciting was DC's announcement that The New Gods were coming back to comic shops and that their latest saga would be steered by writer Ram V and artist Evan Cagle. While these characters loom large over the DC universe, they've rarely carried a solo book for any significant amount of time. One reason for that might be that they're such pure Jack Kirby creations, and following in the King's footsteps is more than a challenge. If anyone is up for such a task, it's Ram V. The writer's first work within DC was on Swamp Thing , and he easily proved he could step into a beloved property and add a little of himself to it. He recognizes fans' preciousness toward Jack Kirby's Fourth World , but he equally understands how The New Gods could speak very much to the moment. We met with Ram V atop the DC booth on Saturday at San Diego Comic-Con . We begin our conversation with our love for all things Kirby and move toward parenthood, specifically fatherhood, and how it will thematically propel his take on The New Gods. What has Scott Free learned from his two dads, Darkseid and Highfather? The New Gods will land in comic book shops in December, but make sure you catch up on the cosmic imbalance that launches their story by picking up The All In Special on October 2nd. To continue this conversation with Ram V, follow his Twitter , Instagram , and Website . Other Relevant Links: Ram V and Dan Watters on The Creature from the Black Lagoon Lives! CBCC at SDCC 2024: Hall H with Bryan Young (Patreon Exclusive) CBCC at SDCC 2024: Gail Simone <a href='https://www.comicbookcouplescounseling.com/p
Wed, August 14, 2024
Full Spoilers: Juni Ba on TMNT: Nightwatcher 1
Last year, cartoonist Juni Ba had an epic Fall, releasing multiple all-timers in one month. We had him on the show and told him the output would be difficult to top in 2024, and he humbly said he had a few projects already lined up and would do his best. With The Boy Wonder about to wrap and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Nightwatcher #1 hitting stands today, Juni Ba reveals how he still has numerous killer comics inside him. Ba returns to the podcast this week for a lengthy discussion about Nightwatcher . We go full spoilers, beginning with the person under the helmet and why there was no other option for the vigilante. We also consider how Nightwatcher thematically links to The Boy Wonder and possibly several other projects on the horizon. Nightwatcher is the first comic Ba has tackled solely as a writer, watching in wonder as artist Fero Pe delivers one astonishing page after another. The sensation is strange for Juni Ba, but he's getting used to it and digging into it. With Jason Aaron and his cadre of collaborators developing the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles in their new ongoing, Juni Ba is left alone to develop a unique corner within the IDW TMNT universe. The Nightwatcher persona first appeared in the 2007 TMNT animated film, but they functioned in an entirely different manner than the character as depicted by Ba and Pe. Has the fandom already created expectations around Nightwatcher? Will they allow these artists to attempt something a little different, adding a new layer to the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles landscape? Juni Ba has some anxiety around the reaction to this comic, and we dig into those worries, too. Continue this conversation with Juni Ba by visiting his Instagram and Twitter . Other Relevant Links: Juni Ba on Mobilis: My Life with Captain Nemo CBCC at SDCC 2024: Hall H with Bryan Young (Patreon Exclusive) <p id="viewe
Mon, August 12, 2024
DC All In with Joshua Williamson, Tom King, and Daniel Sampere
In October, DC asks its creators and readers to go All In regarding a new status quo. No matter their history with these characters or their knowledge of them, readers can pick up any single issue on the stands, begin a new adventure, and easily comprehend the event and its possibilities. It starts with The All In Special , released on October 2nd, written by Joshua Williamson and Scott Snyder and illustrated by Daniel Sampere and Wes Craig. While ongoing stories like Wonder Woman, written by Tom King and illustrated by Sampere, won't reboot with a new number one, they will launch a new storyline considerate of the potential fresh eyes upon it. This year, at San Diego Comic-Con , we climbed atop the DC booth for a discussion with writers Joshua Williamson and Tom King, as well as double-duty artist Daniel Sampere. Absolute Power, All In, Superman Energy, Darkseid Energy -- we get to the heart of what DC is attempting with this massive line-wide initiative that feels reminiscent of the New 52 without mimicking it. How will Williamson's current Superman run and King and Sampere's Wonder Woman storyline navigate the event, which includes the creation of Scott Snyder and Nick Dragotta's Absolute Batman , Jason Aaron and Rafa Sandoval's Absolute Superman , and Kelly Thompson and Hayden Sherman's Absolute Wonder Woman ? What's easily discernable is the enthusiasm these artists have for The All In Special , the equally bombastic response the news got from San Diego Comic-Con attendees, and the larger online reaction as well. Joshua Williamson believes he's exploring an aspect of Superman that Clark and previous creators on the book have never contemplated. Tom King and Daniel Sampere explain their hopes for Wonder Woman and their plan to stay on board for many more issues. As he states emphatically, King has not left comics for Hollywood. Keep up to date on all things Joshua Williamson by following him on Twitter , Instagram , and Substack . Continue this conversation with Tom King via Twitter , Threads , and Instagram . Follow Daniel Sampere on Twitter and Instagram . Other Relevant Links: <p id
Fri, August 09, 2024
Joey Esposito and Sean Von Gorman on The Pedestrian
As San Diego Comic-Con began its last day, we met with Joey Esposito and Sean Von Gorman in the Hilton lobby to thoroughly discuss their brand-new superhero, The Pedestrian . Just when you dismiss the genre's ability to create or support a new spandex character, architects like Esposito and Von Gorman come around to rejuvenate the space with an absurd concept told earnestly. Imagine if Bruce Wayne patrolled Twin Peaks rather than Gotham. We discuss the character's origins, the massive lore they're building around The Pedestrian , and why Magma Comix was the only home for their series. The Pedestrian represents the small good guys who come into our lives just when we need them and stand against the ancient systems designed to control our future. Playing Robert Altman, Joey Esposito and Sean Von Gorman populate Summer City with numerous characters, promising a massive universe beyond this first issue's twenty-four pages. The genius is how the comic uses established iconic images that we all interact with daily to propel us through new genre avenues. The Pedestrian's first issue is now available in comic book shops everywhere. Make sure you're following Joey Esposito on Twitter , Instagram , and his Website . Also, follow Sean Von Gorman on Twitter , Instagram , and his Website . Other Relevant Links: CBCC at SDCC 2024: Hall H with Bryan Young (Patreon Exclusive) CBCC at SDCC 2024: Gail Simone CBCC at SDCC 2024: Jason Aaron CBCC at SDCC 2024: Wes Craig on Kaya C
Wed, August 07, 2024
Wes Craig on Kaya
We're mostly unpacked from San Diego Comic-Con , and we begin this week's podcast by discussing the show's big highlight. No, it's not RDJ as Doctor Doom. After working through the con highs and lows, we invite cartoonist Wes Craig into our Zoom room for the first time so we can thoroughly investigate his all-ages epic, Kaya . In an era where publishing beyond six issues seems nearly impossible, Wes Craig has already knocked out 20 Kaya comics, equalling three trade paperbacks, and promises five more. Where does this compulsion to tell a long-form story originate, and more importantly, how can he make it happen? Some of the answer rests with us, his audience, but most of it rests with him and his compulsion. Kaya is one of the best comic books on the stands. It's the story of two unique and complicated siblings, alone in a violent, fantastical world, bonding on the road to somewhere kinder while their faith see-saws back and forth. Wes Craig is living his fantasy, writing and drawing the saga that's lived within him for years. He just needs to get it out. We chat with the cartoonist about his mission, characters, and universe. We explore the perils of the Chosen One trope, tease Kaya 's big Empire Strikes Back moment, and consider the ultimate destination. And, yeah, we get into all his influences as well. Some you may already be aware of, but several others, probably not. Stand by Me ? The Wonder Years ? The first three Kaya trade paperbacks are now available from Image Comics . Issue twenty arrived in comic shops today. Make sure you're following Wes Craig on Twitter , Instagram , and his Website . Other Relevant Links: CBCC at SDCC 2024: Hall H with Bryan Young (Patreon Exclusive) CBCC at SDCC 2024: Gail Simone <a href='https://www.comicbookcouplescounseling.com/post/jason-aaron-teenage-mut
Mon, August 05, 2024
Full Spoilers: Jason Aaron on Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 1
Hopefully, you've had some time with Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #1 by Jason Aaron and Joëlle Jones. The record-breaking comic seemingly found its way into everyone's pullbox last week. Despite San Diego Comic-Con taking over much of the discourse, the IDW Publishing relaunch snatched tremendous attention and fueled equal excitement. As promised, it's a comic for the loyal continuity consumer, curious first-timer, or once-upon-a-time Mirage Studios loyalist. Months back, shortly after he was announced to be on the book, we spoke with writer Jason Aaron about his plans for the brothers . He couldn't reveal much, but we nourished ourselves on a few clues. Now that the first issue is out there, and folks have properly devoured it three or four times, we're stoked to have Aaron back on the podcast, and this time, we can go full-spoilers regarding his first twenty-two pages of TMNT . Our conversation occurred two days into San Diego Comic-Con , enclosed within a spacious conference room at the Hilton Bayfront. Only days before, Aaron and Joëlle Jones signed their first copies of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #1 . The reaction was immediately positive, and the glow still hung around the author. Together, we discuss why the new series had to begin with Raphael and why he had to be trapped behind bars. We explore the "Return to New York" and the city as both a literal and metaphorical place. Again, our chat goes full spoilers. Please read the issue before pressing play. Of course, we must also discuss San Diego Comic-Con itself—the behemoth—and how we had to adjust our coverage of it in ways we've never had to deal with before. Did CBCC hosts Brad and Lisa have a come-to-Jesus feud in the middle of Preview Night? Yes. Yes, they did. Lessons were learned. Keep your eyes glued to the IDW Publishing page as more and more Ninja Turtles 40th Anniversary celebrations are revealed, and make sure to follow Jason Aaron on Twitter , Instagram , and his website . <p id="iris81656" c
Tue, July 30, 2024
San Diego Comic-Con: Gail Simone on Misty
Reporting live from San Diego Comic-Con , we're chatting with Gail Simone about everything she has going on at the moment, including the incredible Misty 2024 Special from Rebellion Publishing . When editors first approached her with the project, she'd never read the previous British series. However, after a few issues, Simone was hooked and saw her way into Misty's world, so some updates would have to occur. The Misty 2024 Special features three tales written by Gail Simone and illustrated by Carola Borelli, Aly Fell, and Marianna Ignazzi, plus a final story scripted and drawn by Letty Wilson. Each short takes on a different perspective and message, but all are snuggled comfortably within the horror genre. Simone is a thematically forward writer, and it was a treat to dig into her mission for each of these macabre yarns. Initially created by Pat Mills and published in 1978, Misty was designed to appeal to women, but male readers came along for the ride (and the pretty pictures). Gail Simone modifies Misty's thematic and narrative points of view, basically doing what she did for Birds of Prey and the superhero genre, but for Misty and horror. The Misty 2024 Special is currently available across the pond and will arrive on American shores on August 21st. Wrapped with a gorgeous Tula Lotay cover, this item is not to be missed. Also, as announced at San Diego Comic-Con, Gail Simone is writing more Misty stories. So, it's best to get aboard as soon as possible. Follow Gail Simone on Twitter and Instagram . And be on the lookout for our future San Diego Comic-Con coverage. We're talking to folks like Jason Aaron, James Tynion IV, Mark Waid, Joshua Williamson, Daniel Sampare, Tom King, Mariko Tamaki, Ram V, and more. Final Round of Plugs (PHEW): Support the Podcast by Joining OUR PATREON COMMUNITY Join us at the Alamo Drafthouse in Winchester, Virginia, on 8/18 a
Mon, July 22, 2024
Mangasplaining Search and Destroy Volume 1
It's easy to despair. Fear and frustration spread quickly, and their hold has hooks hard to shake. Don't fall into the discourse trap; free yourself by following the light radiating from the medium's champions. Find folks like Deb Aoki and Christopher Woodrow-Butcher and grab firm. Through their Mangasplaining podcast (co-hosted with David Brothersand Chip Zdarsky), they've become beacons of what the sequential art form can offer the human experience, and recently, they've taken their passion one step further (maybe several steps further) and actually manifested great comic works. Mangasplaining , in partnership with Fantagraphics , first brought Susumu Higa's Okinawa into American comic shops and bookstores. Now, they're switching gears quite drastically, offering Atsushi Kaneko's radical reconsideration of Osamu Tezuka's iconic Dororo , Search and Destroy . The comic shifts the original story from feudal Japan to an apocalyptic future where machines enhance themselves using pieces stolen from a mysterious young woman. While they taste life with her tongue, she trudges across the sci-fi hellscape, sharpening her rage into a propulsive attack. As we prepare for this week's San Diego Comic-Con International, we revel in the gifts all comics provide their readers. We chat with Deb Aoki and Christopher Woodrow-Butcher about their Mangasplaining origin, how it evolved into a comics delivery system, the types of conversations we should have about manga away from American Comics, and the conversations we should have about manga with American Comics. If you're looking for inspiration before America's biggest comic book convention takes over this week's discourse, this Comic Book Couples Counseling episode is ready to serve. Relevant Links Search and Destroy - Fantagraphics Atsushi Kaneko on Twitter Giga Town: A Guide to Manga Iconography - Udon Mangasplaining Announcement Giga Town Amazon Pre-Order Link <p id="o4q2i1376" class="g9B
Mon, July 15, 2024
Maurice Vellekoop: I'm So Glad We Had This Time Together
There is power in putting your life on the page. Cartoonist Maurice Vellekoop discovered it when making the internal external, crafting a massive graphic novel memoir over eleven years. I'm So Glad We Had This Time Together gorgeously and nakedly splays his experience for EVERYONE to consume, and while his audience could/should find it healingly reflective, the act is entirely selfish. He's found the shape of his journey and solidified it. If only we could all be so fortunate. Maurice Vellekoop is the youngest of four children, raised by a distant father and a magical mother in the Toronto suburbs. His family stewed in the arts, but young Maurice was drawn more to boob tube icons like Carol Burnett and would rather play with Barbies than read a book. Through his strict Calvinist upbringing, Maurice Vellekoop sensed vicious judgment toward the person he was becoming. I'm So Glad We Had This Time Together charts an epic struggle with depression, loneliness, and a violent, intolerant world. On this week's podcast, Maurice Vellekoop joins us for a thorough conversation about the power found within memoirs, how depicting the most beautiful and horrid moments in his history created an aesthetic challenge and his complicated relationship with Disney animation. The conversation stands apart from other Comic Book Couples Counseling episodes, just as his book stands apart from other comics released this year. I'm So Glad We Had This Time Together demands your attention, and you should move it immediately to the top of your to-read pile. I'm So Glad We Had This Time Together is now available from Pantheon Books . Please follow Maurice Vellekoop on Instagram and his Website . As always, Omnibus, the Digital Comic Store and Reader , sponsors our Referrals segment. This week, we selected two comic book titles on the site that satisfy this episode's themes. We won't spoil what they are here, but if you click the links below, you'll be immediately escorted to those books. <a href='https://omnibus.app/shop/series/2022-loved-and-lost/issues/2022-06-15-loved-and-lost-a-relatio
Fri, July 05, 2024
Matt Kindt (Son) and Margie Kraft Kindt (Mom) on Gilt Frame
When it comes to cool collaborators, Matt Kindt has had quite a few. He partnered with CBCC all-star Matt Lesniewski on Crimson Flower . He and David Rubin gave us the blazing sci-fi adventure Ether . And with Ron Garney and Keanu Reeves, Matt Kindt birthed the This Is Spinal Tap version of Conan the Barbarian. Don't deny it: BRZRKR is proudly cranked to eleven. The partner from Hollywood might attract the most mainstream attention, and it's an alliance that may have paved the way for Kindt's most crucial collaborator yet -- his mother. As a lifelong fan of whodunits, Margie Kraft Kindt has already taken it upon herself to scribble some stories, but she wasn't sure she could manage one with her son. However, the collaborative style Matt Kindt established with Keanu Reeves on BRZRKR cracked the code on how he would work with Margie. With a process in place, Gilt Frame , the latest entry under the Dark Horse Comics imprint Flux House, flew out of them pretty quickly. Their story focuses on a somewhat different but kind of similar familial dynamic between an aunt and a nephew. Sam and Mary have already built a reputation as dynamite detectives, solving cases that span the globe. They're due for a little Parisian vacation, but fate won't allow it and drops a body at their feet. Back on the case, they get to work. This week's podcast begins with celebrating the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles' 40th Anniversary as we describe our pilgrimage to Dover, New Hampshire, the site of the original Mirage Studios. We discuss the various TMNT landmarks we witnessed, the comic book shops we visited, the fights we had, and the comic script we wrote while there. If you haven't clocked it already, our theme for this episode is collaboration. Gitl Frame will be available in comic shops on August 7th . Our conversation is process-focused and spoiler-free. Press play with pleasure. Also, ensure you follow Matt Kindt on Twitter , Instagram , and his Website . As always, Omnibus, the Digital Comic Store and Reader , sponsors our Referrals segment. This week, we selected two comic book titles on the site that satisfy this episode's themes. We won't spoil what they are here, but i
Thu, June 27, 2024
Jordan Blum, Patton Oswalt, and Kyle Starks on Barfly, the Most Minor of Threats
Are you ready to meet our new favorite henchman, Barfly ? Jordan Blum, Patton Oswalt, Kyle Starks, and Ryan Browne are eager to make introductions. Their new series, spun "from the world of Minor Threats ," drills even deeper into the philosophical pursuit initiated by the original run that began two years ago. The lowliest punk in Twilight City has a rich inner life, and he'd love to share it with you if you can set aside your primordial revulsion toward sh*teaters. You don't need to browse long on the rack before encountering another comic deconstructing the superhero genre. Ever since 1986, every creator, it seems, wants to put forth their subversive effort, but Minor Threats avoids the usual cynical choices, embracing Silver Age nonsense and the joys that come with it. Minor Threats and its latest spin-off, Barfly , showcase tremendous humanity, using absurdity to expose genuine pain and triumph. The sincerity marks Minor Threats as the most exciting superhero universe since Astro City . We're downright chuffed to have Jordan Blum, Patton Oswalt, and Kyle Starks back on the podcast. Together, we question the name thrust upon our protagonist, his possible desire to be more than a henchman, and whether those seeking to be masterminds are driven or simply delusional. Also, does Superman go to the bathroom? At least one participant in our conversation has powerful feelings about that. From the World of Minor Threats: Barfly #1 is published by Dark Horse Comics and arrives in comic shops on July 10th. It's written by Jordan Blum, Patton Oswalt, and Kyle Starks. Ryan Browne illustrated and colored it, and Nate Piekos lettered it. Continue this conversation by following Patton Oswalt on Twitter , Instagram , and his Website . Follow Jordan Blum on Twitter and Instagram . Follow Kyle Starks on Twitter HERE , on Instagram HERE , and by visiting his Website HERE . As always, Omnibus, the Digital Comic Store and Reader , sponsors our Referrals segment. This week, we selected two comic bo
Thu, June 20, 2024
Sean Phillips and Jacob Phillips: Every Comic is an Emergency
What's the ideal environment for making a comic? We toss the question to Sean Phillips and Jacob Phillips, and they ponder it for a moment. They've never experienced it, and they're not sure it's possible, or if it was, that they'd want it. Deadlines loom over all, making every comic an emergency. This urgency helps them accomplish their craft, and it must be working since, undoubtedly, everyone reading these words is craving their next collaboration, Houses of the Unholy (out August 14th from Image Comics). The father/son duo first worked together on the Criminal novella, My Heroes Have Always Been Junkies , written by longtime writing partner Ed Brubaker. Initially, Sean was set to color the book, and he knocked out a couple of pages, but the deadline demanded an alternative strategy. He called on his son for assistance, and since then, Jacob Phillips has colored all the Brubaker/Phillips joints. For Father's Day, we asked Sean Phillips and Jacob Phillips to sit down with us and discuss their creative origins, collaborator origins, what Ed Brubaker expects from them these days, their need for affirmation, and why every book must be a race to the finish. Also, has Sean Phillips read The Enfield Gang Massacre yet? We begin this week's podcast by interrogating the dad holiday, relating our recent parental celebrations, and discussing our attendance at Washington, D.C.'s second annual DC/DOX Film Festival , where we saw Super/Man : The Christopher Reeve Story , which included a moving and memorable conversation with Reeve's daughter, Alexandra Reeve Givens. Somehow, the recent season of MasterChef factors in as well. Please ensure you're following Sean Phillips on Instagram , Twitter , and his Website and Jacob Phillips on Instagram , Twitter , and his Website . As always, Omnibus, the Digital Comic Store and Reader , sponsors our Referrals segment. This week, we selected two comic book titles on the site that satisfy this episode's themes. We won't spoil
Wed, June 12, 2024
Jordan Morris on Youth Group
We get serious with Jordan Morris, whether he wants us to or not. He returns to the podcast with his new graphic novel, Youth Group , done in collaboration with artist Bowen McCurdy. It's a wickedly winky narrative about a young goth girl named Kay reluctantly following her mother's instructions to join a Christian youth group and discovering that they actually battle demons. Morris returns to the nineties in an effort to better understand his brief flirtation with religiosity, which left him with warm but complicated feelings. Youth Group arrives from First Second Books on July 16th, and it's packed with jokes, we promise. However, Jordan Morris has found himself once again trapped with Comic Book Couples Counseling , and we need to work out the weird feelings and memories his book awoke in us. Where does the metaphor begin and end with God? The question has been on our minds a lot lately, and we take it to Morris as filtered through Kay's clash with Hell's best betas. In this week's episode, we travel back in time, exploring Jordan Morris' past youth group experiences as well as our own. We consider the anxious feeling ignited when connecting the personal with the absurd and the shocking healing that can occur on both sides of the page. For the artist and for the reader. You can track down Jordan Morris via his Twitter , Instagram , and Website . As always, Omnibus, the Digital Comic Store and Reader , sponsors our Referrals segment. This week, we selected two comic book titles on the site that satisfy this episode's themes. We won't spoil what they are here, but if you click the links below, you'll be immediately escorted to those books. Brad's Referral Lisa's Referral Other Relev
Wed, June 05, 2024
Maria Bamford and Scott Marvel Cassidy Are Hogbook and Lazer Eyes
How you define your relationship determines its trajectory. If you see your romance as a triumph over adversity, you will triumph. This is one of the many lessons we took from our long ago exploration of Drs. John and Julie Gottman, and we discuss their philosophy thoroughly on this week's podcast with Maria Bamford and Scott Marvel Cassidy. Their new graphic novel from Fantagraphics, Hogbook and Lazer Eyes , details their complicated coupling, all told through the eyes of their various elder pugs. When Maria Bamford and Scott Marvel Cassidy were at their lowest, they signed up for the dating website O.K. Cupid, using the handles "Hogbook" and "Lazer Eyes." One date became two, which became three, then four. Their compatibility was less than a sure thing, but as they persisted, their connection solidified. Something about the other stirred understanding in themselves, and witnessing that epiphany through their canine housemates cleverly, maybe magically, creates profundity. After the Gottmans, we discuss the other classic texts that shaped our understanding of relationships: Dan Slott and Michael Allred's Silver Surfer . As we've previously covered on the show, entering a marriage is to engage with "The Infinite All-In." In a best-case scenario, one of you will leave the other to wallow in grief. As you'll hear, for Maria Bamford and Scott Marvel Cassidy, "the 50/50 risk" gives value to the partnership. As longtime admirers of Maria Bamford's standup comedy and television work and Scott Marvel Cassidy's comics and artistry, it was more than a joy to chat with them about Hogbook and Lazer Eyes . Discussing romance and collaboration with another creative couple helped us more clearly define our desires and wants for the future. Is a puppy on the horizon? Possibly. To continue this conversation online, follow Maria Bamford on Twitter , Instagram , and her Website . Follow Scott Marvel Cassidy on Instagram and his Website . Hogbook and Lazer Eyes is now available from Fantagraphics . Find it wherever fine comics are sold. As always, Omnibus, <a href='https://omnibus.app/
Wed, May 29, 2024
Creature from the Black Lagoon Lives! with Ram V and Dan Watters
The Gill-man just does it for us. Or Lisa, more specifically. You can have your Dracula, Frankenstein's Monster, Wolf Man, and Invisible Man; we'll take the wet and wild one off your hands any day of the week. Creature from the Black Lagoon Lives! And no more ravishingly than in our hearts. Where other Universal Monsters stem from rich, lurid literature and folklore, the Creature is a far more contemporary cat...er, fish. His origins are chained to the 1954 film, its few sequels, and the morality of that brief timeline. While we've seen artists offer some spins on the design here and there, for the most part, it's been a long time since anyone's properly played in the Creature's intoxicating fish tank. As part of Skybound Entertainment and Universal's recent partnership, writers Ram V and Dan Watters ( The One Hand , The Six Fingers ), along with artist Matthew Roberts, colorist Dave Stewart, and letterer DC Hopkins, continue the Gill-man's saga, some indeterminate time after the movie climaxed. Creature from the Black Lagoon Lives! begins with a journalist tracking a serial killer to the Amazon. We're so darn pleased to have Ram V and Dan Watters on the show this week, talking about Creature from the Black Lagoon Lives! , what the Gill-man represents culturally and thematically, and why we have a Kate this time around and not a Kay. Also, which Universal Monster is the most sexy? We get into it whether anyone else wants to or not. The first two issues of Creature from the Black Lagoon Lives! are currently available from Skybound. The third issue will land in comic shops on June 26th . To continue this conversation with Ram V, follow his Twitter , Instagram , and Website . To keep chatting with Dan Watters, follow his Twitter and Instagram . As always, Omnibus, the Digital Comic Store and Reader , sponsors our Referrals segment. This week, we selected two comic book titles on the site that satisfy this episode's themes. We won't spoil what they are here, but if you click the links below, you'll be immediately escorted to those books. <p id="1xsk
Tue, May 21, 2024
The Ultimate Beneath the Trees Where Nobody Sees Interview
It's been a week. You've had a minute. The sixth and final issue of Beneath the Trees Where Nobody Sees is out there, living its life, rattling around our collective imaginations. We need to talk about it. You need to talk about it. Let's talk about it together. And drag cartoonist Patrick Horvath into the chat, crack his melon open, and root around in all of his delicious secrets. Yep, it's time to go full spoilers with this comic. When Beneath the Trees Where Nobody Sees first landed in shops, it hooked its first readers in a profound way. The elevator pitch was beyond infectious; it was powerful. Mesmeric, maybe. The first issue transformed us into evangelists, preaching the good (grotesque) word of Sam the Bear and her sleepy Woodbrook community. Perhaps we glimpsed ourselves within her, as troubling as that was, and that caused us to seek new readers to share in our compelling confusion. Half a year later, with the whole story inside us, we can confidently declare that we had no real idea where Beneath the Trees Where Nobody Sees would take us. Go back and listen to our first conversation with Patrick Horvath. We had an inkling but not a clue. Now, our perceptions are (semi)clear, and we need to run them through Patrick Horvath himself. Plus, go on a rant about Australian Traitors season two and make a few parallels between Sam the Bear and Sam the Sheriff. Beneath the Trees Where Nobody Sees was a smash hit for Patrick Horvath and IDW Publishing . Each of the sixth issues caused a stir, and we're extremely excited about how its recent Eisner Awards nomination and upcoming trade paperback release (September 17th) will attract even more new, unprepared readers. Hopefully, folks will also run toward Patrick Horvath's current Zoop campaign for Free For All , his Eat the Rich, dystopian, gladiatorial relationship drama. ( CLICK HERE NOW ) Continue this conversation with Patrick Horvath by following his Twitter , Instagram , and Website . As always, Omnibus, the Digital Comic Store and Reader , sponsors our Referrals segment. This week, we selected two comic book titles on the site that satisfy this episode's themes. We won't
Wed, May 15, 2024
Kyle Starks on Karate Prom
He's back—like you've never seen him before. Kyle Starks, the writer behind I Hate This Place , Peacemaker Tries Hard! , and Where Monsters Lie , just released an original graphic novel at First Second that's all-ages and without swears. Karate Prom is a heart-forward action adventure about two teens who find love in the ring, or after it, when Sam knocks Don "TheDragonWilson" Jones out cold. As Starks puts it in our conversation, he's entered his "two people who just love the sh*t out of each other phase." And how could Comic Book Couples Counseling not celebrate? Conflict is necessary and inevitable, but it's nice to witness a couple find it outside their relationship and in the forms of terrifying exes, a global crime cartel, and an onslaught of ninjas. Karate Prom also offers us an opportunity to relive our squidgy high school rituals and force Kyle Starks to do the same. Who was the biggest player in high school: Brad, Lisa, or Kyle? The answer may surprise you. Or not...probably not. Be sure to stay current on all things Kyle Starks by following him on Twitter HERE , on Instagram HERE , and by visiting his Website HERE . As always, Omnibus, the Digital Comic Store and Reader , sponsors our Referrals segment. This week, we selected two comic book titles on the site that satisfy this episode's themes. We won't spoil what they are here, but if you click the links below, you'll be immediately escorted to those books. Brad's Referral Lisa's Referral Other Relevant Links: Kyle Starks on
Mon, May 06, 2024
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: 40th Anniversary Special
March 5th, 1984. Forty years ago, three thousand copies of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #1 hit the newsstands. The title was impossible to ignore. Born from a joke between fresh collaborators Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird, it sparked an instantaneous passionate response. Many quickly dismissed the concept or rolled their eyes, but those who actually read that first issue recognized the love for the medium within. Eventually, cartoons and toys would follow, and a phenomenon occurred that truly has not been replicated in the comics space since. This week's podcast is our "Thank You" to Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird. We return to those Mirage Studios' early years, examining three critical comics that would shape and define the characters: the Leonardo micro-series one-shot and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles issues ten and eleven. These stories would form the climax of the 1990 movie adaptation and propel the brothers into a momentous clash with The Shredder in "Return to New York" and its "City at War" aftermath. No Love Expert guides our hands this week as we draw lessons directly from the comics. Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird poured so much life into their stories, and the result is a beautiful mirror reflecting our hopes and fears. In these pages, the reader exists already; they merely must find themselves. Mirage Studios published these comics between December 1986 and June 1987. They were written and penciled by Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird, inked and toned by Eastman, Laird, Stephen R. Bissette, Michael Dooney, and Ryan Brown, and lettered by Steve Lavigne. You can currently read them via IDW Publishing's massive Compendium Vol. 1 . As always, Omnibus, the Digital Comic Store and Reader , sponsors our Referrals segment. This week, we selected two comic book titles on the site that satisfy this episode's themes. We won't spoil what they are here, but if you click the links below, you'll be immediately escorted to those books. Brad's Referral <p id="viewer-viewer-viewer-viewer-viewer-viewer-viewer-viewer-viewer-viewer-viewe
Mon, April 29, 2024
Daniel Warren Johnson on The Nam
For this week's podcast, we're digging out a treasure from the CBCC Patreon Feed : our deep-dive conversation with Daniel Warren Johnson about The Nam # 9 . This thorough discussion launched our "Married to Singles" Patreon exclusive series, where we examine the favorite single issues of various comic book creators and critics. It's one thing to dissect an artist's work alongside or in front of them, as we often do, but it's an entirely different thing to scrutinize an artist's work with another artist. Daniel Warren Johnson is a can't-miss cartoonist. If he's on a book, you want that book in your pullbox. Extremity , Murder Falcon , Do a Powerbomb! , and Transformers are essential reads for those obsessed with the comic form. If you want to understand what DWJ does so well, our conversation with him about his passion for Michael Golden gives you another angle. As Johnson remarks in our chat, Michael Golden in The 'Nam # 9 does things he would never do, and those choices mystify and compel him. Johnson came to the Marvel series late in his comic reading history, picking up the first two issues and enjoying them but only coming across the rest of those Golden books years later at C2E2. He profoundly appreciates all those early 'Nam issues, but the ninth one just hits differently. Why? We get into it. After you enjoy our conversation with Daniel Warren Johnson, consider digging into the rest of our "Married to Singles" episodes. We have thorough inspections with Jason Ayers on Uncanny X-Men # 183 , Christian Ward on Arkham Asylum , and more. The CBCC Patreon costs as little as $1 a month or $12 a year. You can also purchase these episodes individually, without joining the Patreon, for $3 an episode via our Online Shop . The ' Nam # 9 was originally published by Marvel Comics on May 19, 1987. It was written by Doug Murray, penciled by Michael Golden, inked by John Beatty, and lettered and colored by Phil Felix. G . I . Joe mastermind Larry Hama served as editor, while Jim Shooterwas Editor-in-Chief. You can continue this conversation by following Daniel Warren Johnson on Twitter , <a href='https://www.instagram.c
Sat, April 20, 2024
Daniel Warren Johnson on Transformers: Robots in Disguise
When people dare to complain about modern Transformers stories, they often single out the human characters and how they drag the spotlight away from the glorious Cybertron titans they paid their money to see. Optimus Prime is enough. Bumblebee is enough. We don't need Spike or Sparky to stretch the narrative. Just give us the 'bots. And yet, Daniel Warren Johnson, the virtuosic cartoonist behind Extremity , Murder Falcon , and Do a Powerbomb! , could not imagine telling his Transformers story without Spike and Sparky. Why? The humans are at the forefront of this week's podcast as we reflect on Daniel Warren Johnson and colorist Mike Spicer's first six issues and their catastrophic climax. Johnson sees Optimus Prime as the ultimate dad, and he wants to tell his ultimate dad saga while simultaneously reintroducing the Autobots and the Decepticons to Image Comics readers. His Transformers create a significant branch in Skybound's ever-expanding Energon Universe, which includes other titles like Void Rivals , Duke , and Cobra Commander . Telling an emotional and singular story while supporting the most exciting event in comics is a herculean task, and thankfully, for all his readers, Johnson is absolutely up for it. After we pour ourselves over Transformers issues one through six, we invite Daniel Warren Johnson onto the show for a hearty debrief. We discuss the humanity at the core of his story, why Sparky was always Optimus Prime's parallel figure, and what we can expect after the heroic and tragic events of the sixth issue. Transformers 7 is currently on comic stands, while the trade paperback collecting the first story arc will arrive on May 21st. Catch a preview of Transformers 8 on Skybound's website . You can continue this conversation by following Daniel Warren Johnson on Twitter , Instagram , and his Website . As always, Omnibus, the Digital Comic Store and Reader , sponsors our Referrals segment. This week, we selected two comic book titles on the site that satisfy this episode's themes. We won't spoil what they are here, but if you click the links below, you'll be immediately escorted to those books. <li cla
Wed, April 10, 2024
Man's Best with Jesse Lonergan and Pornsak Pichetshote
How many words belong on a page? How many panels? In this week's podcast, we uncover the answers by chatting with Pornsak Pichetshote and Jesse Lonergan about their new Boom Studios series, Man's Best . It's a radically personal work about three emotional support animals lost in space, and it forced its creators to rethink their collaborative impulses to achieve the best comic possible. And we're excited to report they pulled it off. Man's Best is, without doubt, one of the year's best comics. In our conversation, before we dig into the craft and math behind the comic, we challenge the themes Pichetshote and Lonergan are exploring with Man's Best . It's a saga born out of crisis, and it required the artists to adopt one of the most tried-and-true fictional devices: anthropomorphization. We consider the intrinsic value of placing animals in harm's way and how it immediately - and perilously - heightens an audience's emotions. One dog dies, and we're happy to watch John Wick eradicate a hundred goons. It's not a vice-versa situation. The first issue of Man's Best is out now, and the second issue will arrive in comic shops on April 24th. You can continue this conversation online by following Pornsak Pichetshote on Twitter and Instagram , as well as Jesse Lonergan on Twitter and Instagram . As always, Omnibus, the Digital Comic Store and Reader , sponsors our Referrals segment. This week, we selected two comic book titles on the site that satisfy this episode's themes. We won't spoil what they are here, but if you click the links below, you'll be immediately escorted to those books. Brad's Referral Lisa's Referral Other Relevant Links: <p
Wed, April 03, 2024
The Death of Comics Bookcase with Zack Quaintance
We've dreaded this moment for more than a minute. The Death of Comics Bookcase is here. Journalist Zack Quaintance has assembled a mighty fine coffin in the form of a comic book and put his old self into it. Having written for his old site , we'll miss him, but we also recognize this death as a rebirth loaded with possibility, and we can't help but be excited, too. Having dipped his toes into comic-making with Next Door , Zack Quaintance now plunges all the way in with his latest project. The Death of Comics Bookcase is an anthology featuring various rad artistic talent: Nick Cagnetti, P.J. Holden, Luke Horsman, Ryan Lee, Anna Readman, Pat Skott, and more. With stories like "The Werewolf Priest" and "The Responsibili-Teen," the book surfs through numerous genres, playing with our love of the medium while crafting a profoundly personal pseudo-biography. On this week's podcast, we grab Zack Quaintance for an intimate discussion regarding his need to make comics after spending so many years writing about them. We discuss the necessary death of his old self and his hopes for the new one. We chat about the various doors he's closed in his life and how he was able to kick down the one that blocked his path to becoming a comics creator. If he can do it, you can too. Prepare yourself for inspiration. The Death of Comics Bookcase is currently seeking funding via Kickstarter . The project is already complete; we've read it and backed it ourselves. You can also continue this conversation with Quaintance by following him on Twitter and Instagram . As always, Omnibus, the Digital Comic Store and Reader , sponsors our Referrals segment. This week, we selected two comic book titles on the site that satisfy this episode's themes. We won't spoil what they are here, but if you click the links below, you'll be immediately escorted to those books. Brad's Referral <a href='https://omnibus.app/shop
Wed, March 27, 2024
Becky Cloonan and Tula Lotay on Somna
A story is never one story. A story is several stories. It's the story imagined by its author or authors, as is often the case in comics, and it's the story imagined by its many readers. They can be similar or significantly different, but none of them are the same. Never have we been more aware of this phenomenon than when we were talking to Becky Cloonan and Tula Lotay about their new comic, Somna . The DSTLRY series gripped us immediately. One issue in, we found ourselves challenged, wrestling with how these witch trial stories typically propel themselves. Fear and hate are the enemy, but what happens when the paranoia is justified? Both of us interpreted the story differently, but our interpretations differed slightly from Becky Cloonan's headcanon, and hers differed slightly from Tula Lotay's headcanon. Fascinating. We can agree on Somna 's plot. Ingrid is unhappily wed to the town bailiff, who succeeds by sniffing out witches and bringing them to a cleansing fire. His work consumes him, drying his desire for Ingrid and leaving her open to shadowy whispers from a potentially demonic phantom. Becky Cloonan and Tula Lotay trade pages throughout, setting barriers between dream and reality before breaking them down in tremendous fashion. Somna 's third and final issue arrives in shops today. It's the culmination of a decade-long journey for Cloonan and Lotay, and they're eager to share their inspirations, interpretations, and intentions with us. Our conversation is spoiler-ish -- we HAD to talk about that last panel, so it's best if you're caught up on the series before diving into our episode. To continue this discussion, you can find Becky Cloonan on Twitter and Instagram , and Tula Lotay on Twitter and Instagram . As always, Omnibus, the Digital Comic Store and Reader , sponsors our Referrals segment. This week, we selected two comic book titles on the site that satisfy this episode's themes. We won't spoil what they are here, but if you click the links below, you'll be immediately escorted to those books. <p id="viewer-viewer-viewer-viewer-viewer-viewer-viewer-v
Tue, March 19, 2024
The Ultimate The Enfield Gang Massacre Interview with Chris Condon and Jacob Phillips
Walk into your local comic book store and give it a good browse. These days, you won't find too many Western comics. When a publisher like Image Comics grants a person the opportunity to make one, they must seize it and run wild. Chris Condon and Jacob Phillips cram The Enfield Gang Massacre with everything they love about the genre. It's got bank robberies, shootouts, and Gatling guns, oh my. When Condon and Phillips last appeared on the podcast , we speculated that The Enfield Gang Massacre and its sibling series That Texas Blood were their Hellboy saga. Within this massive, time-spanning tale, they can go anywhere and explore anything, as long as it speaks to the lowercase evil and the uppercase Evil that frequently corrupts humanity's heart. However, with that conversation, we had only read The Enfield Gang Massacre 's first issue. This time, we've devoured the whole darn thing, and we had to go full-spoilers with the creators. We start at the end with the new six-page prequel story appearing in The Enfield Gang Massacre 's trade paperback ( out April 9th ). We consider how this short story reworks our understanding of what Condon and Phillips are building with their Western and discuss just how far back they could go with That Texas Blood . You can continue this chat with the That Texas Blood creators by following Chris Condon on Twitter and Instagram and following Jacob Phillips on Twitter and Instagram . As always, Omnibus, the Digital Comic Store and Reader , sponsors our Referrals segment. This week, we selected two comic book titles on the site that satisfy this episode's themes. We won't spoil what they are here, but if you click the links below, you'll be immediately escorted to those books. Brad's Referral <p id="viewer-viewer-viewer-viewer-viewer-viewer-vi
Tue, March 12, 2024
The Ultimate Tom King Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow Interview
Who are we? Who do we want to be? Sometimes, the truth is a lie well told. Tom King returns to the podcast for his most in-depth conversation, breaking down the themes of his iconic Supergirl : Woman of Tomorrow run and why so much of his personal history wound up within it. Explore no further if you have not already read Supergirl : Woman of Tomorrow . We spoil everything. We've wanted to have this conversation with Tom King since we read the first issue, and it became utterly vital for our well-being after we read the last issue. We begin with the title and its significance at the start of the project versus its significance at the halfway point. From there, we consider Supergirl's quest alongside the vengeance-seeking Ruthye, how both characters are changed by the other, and just exactly what we're supposed to take away from that final page. A comic like Supergirl : Woman of Tomorrow doesn't come around too often. Every creator involved, from King to artist Bilquis Evely to colorist Matheus Lopes to letter Clayton Cowles, is operating at the height of their powers. It seems impossible to replicate, yet the entire team returns to comic shops this week with Helen of Wyndhorn . And yeah, we've read the first issue, and we're already in awe of what they're cooking inside this Wizard of Oz meets Conan the Barbarian tale. Special Bonus! Learn Tom King's Secret Comic Book Couples Counseling origin. We'll say no more here, but it's a fun tidbit for podcast trivia seekers. Finally, we begin our episode celebrating this year's Awesome Con experience and the first-ever CBCC panel held on March 8th at 8:30 PM in Room 206 of the Washington DC Convention Center. Our thanks to everyone who came out for our counseling session. Supergirl : Woman of Tomorrow was originally published between August 2021 and April 2022. It's currently available in trade paperback from DC Comics, but a new Deluxe Hardcover edition will arrive on July 24th. Find it wherever rad books are sold. Continue this conversation with Tom King via Twitter , Threads , and Instagram . As always, O
Mon, March 04, 2024
The Ultimate Tyler Crook The Lonesome Hunters: The Wolf Child Interview
This week's episode is the conversation we've wanted to have with Tyler Crook from the moment we first read The Lonesome Hunters . Despite already having two wonderful chats with Crook on the record, we couldn't let him rest there. After Dark Horse Comics released the second volume, The Wolf Child , we needed to go full-spoilers, and it appears Tyler Crook needed to do the same thing. We start at the end and work our way back to the beginning, picking through the comic's various themes and how they got there. All of that is to say that you've been warned. If you have not read The Lonesome Hunters : The Wolf Child , please do so immediately. While not centered on a romantic couple, it's the perfect Comic Book Couples Counseling comic, a place where the reader can go to find themselves as Tyler Crook has put everything of himself into it. The book's central protagonists, Howard and Lupe, are thrust onto a road with an undercurrent of magic. One has avoided it for most of their life; the other desperately clings to it in hopes of relief. When a comic like this one comes around, you must celebrate. The Lonesome Hutners : The Wolf Child is the purest of expressions, written, illustrated, colored, and lettered by Tyler Crook. It's a human bound in pages, and the result is something so painfully, beautifully relatable. Our previous conversations with Tyler Crook will contextualize some of this interview. Please hit the links to those episodes below. It's always lovely to chat with Crook. We dig as deep into The Lonesome Hunters ' mythology as the artist will allow at this point. We tell him what we think the comic is about, and he encouragingly responds to those interpretations. The Lonesome Hunters The Wolf Child is now available from Dark Horse Comics , wherever fine comic books are sold. You can continue your conversation with Tyler Crook via his Blue Sky , Instagram , and Website . Also, you can listen to his music through his Bandcamp page (although it's also available on Spotify, Apple Music, and the like). As always, Omnibus, the Digital Comic Store and Reader , spons
Mon, February 26, 2024
Jason Aaron on Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles -Return to New York
Some birthdays are bigger than others. To properly celebrate the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles hitting their forties this year, IDW Publishing is determined to make a fuss regarding our favorite comic book siblings, including, but not limited to, inviting heavyweight scribe Jason Aaron onto their flagship title. The main monthly comic will relaunch with a new number one in July but remain faithful to IDW's continuity, all one hundred and fifty issues of it. This week on Comic Book Couples Counseling , Jason Aaron reveals the title of his run's first storyline, how it's layered with meaning, especially for fans of the original Mirage Studios stories, and why it was necessary to collaborate with such wickedly cool stylists like Joëlle Jones, Rafael Albuquerque, Cliff Chiang, and Chris Burnham. We also discuss why he's starting his saga with four solo adventures, with each of the first four issues focusing on a specific brother, and how June's Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles : Alpha #1 one-shot will set the stage and tone for what's to come. Once upon a time, a young Jason Aaron purchased Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #3 and had his little mind melted. He wants to bring the same punk rock energy to his series that the original creators, Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird, brought to every one of their comics. We return to this headspace with Jason Aaron, revisit a few of our favorite Ninja Turtle comics, and speculate on what we may see on the page in the very near future. We've said it before, and we'll say it again: there is no better time to be a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles fan. All rapidly on their way, we have a new monthly series written by Jason Aaron, another series titled TMNT : Mutant Nation , Juni Ba and Fero Pe's Nightwatcher spin-off, a Saturday Morning Adventures TMNT/Usagi Yojimbo crossover one-shot, and the artist showcase anthology, TMNT : Black, White, and Green . So, yeah, we had to take a moment and break all that down too. OH! And remember, The Last Ronin II : Re-Evolution hits shops on March 6th! Keep your eyes glued to the IDW Publishing page as more and more Ninja Turtles 40th Anniversary celebrations are revealed, and make sure to follow Jason Aaron on Twitter , Instagram , and his website . As always, Omnibus, <a href='ht
Wed, February 21, 2024
Tom Scioli on I Am Stan: A Graphic Biography of the Legendary Stan Lee
All biography is autobiography. Nowhere is this more evident than when discussing Tom Scioli's back-to-back books, Jack Kirby : The Epic Life of the King of Comics and I Am Stan : A Graphic Biography of the Legendary Stan Lee . Since his earliest works, Scioli has found himself through his reverence, study, and subversion of the King. Kirby's collaborations with Stan Lee shaped much of our current cultural imagination, and they absolutely reworked Scioli's DNA and continue to do so with each passing day. During our first conversation with Tom Scioli, done shortly after he completed his Jack Kirby biography, he seemed hesitant to the idea of tackling Stan Lee next. Three years later, he's done so, but he did it in an unexpected way, skipping the interior path into his subject and embracing the exterior. After all, there are so many more interviews, articles, biographies, and documentaries on Stan "The Man" Lee than Jack Kirby, and it was much easier to source the events described in I Am Stan . Hell, the appendix to the comic is almost as richly readable as the comic itself. I Am Stan 's front cover and first two pages establish a challenging position, especially for those who've adored Stan Lee in a particular fashion for so many decades. We're grateful to have Tom Scioli on the podcast this week to discuss those opening blows and the sympathy and love he still carries for the man who many believe built Marvel Comics. We discuss how his approach to Stan Lee differed from Jack Kirby's and how both books combine to form a third narrative. I Am Stan : A Graphic Biography of the Legendary Stan Lee is now available from Ten Speed Press . Make sure to follow Tom Scioli on Twitter HERE , on Instagram HERE , and on Patreon HERE . As always, Omnibus, the Digital Comic Store and Reader , sponsors our Referrals segment. This week, we selected two comic book titles on the site that satisfy this episode's themes. We won't spoil what they are here, but if you click the links below, you'll be immediately escorted to those books.
Sat, February 10, 2024
Scott and Emma: Dark X-Men - The Confession
What's in the box!? Scott Summers invites Emma Frost into his mind palace and shows her his special black cube, constructed with a little help from his ex. Gulp. This week, we reach the halfway point in our ScEmma Counseling Session series, discussing Dark X-Men : The Confession as well as Uncanny X-Men issues 518 and 519, which mark the height of their functionality. Yup, it's the top of their hill, and we're not ready to look on the other side. But let's not get ahead of ourselves. Instead, let's revel in their achievements as they recognize each other's authentic selves while casting off their conditioned selves. Namor, Tony Stark, the X-Force kill squad. Forget about them. Scott and Emma, you're two desperate, hyper-vigilant people pleasers who can forget their shady past sins and embrace their sexy present sins. Helping us navigate Scott and Emma's multiple psychic revelations is Dr. Nicole Lepera and her book, How to Be the Love You Seek : Break Cycles , Find Peace and Heal Your Relationships . Together, we explore the seven conditioned selves, consider which apply to Scott and Emma, and wonder whether Psylocke was the right choice for Professor X's surgical assistant. Dark X-Men : The Confession was published by Marvel Comics in September 2009. It's written by Craig Kyle and Chris Yost, penciled by Bing Cansino, inked by Roland Paris, colored by Edgar Delgado and Brian Reber, and lettered by Rob Steen. Uncanny X-Men issues 518 and 519 were published between December of 2009 and January of 2010. They were written by Matt Fraction, penciled by Terry Dodson, inked by Rachel Dodson, colored by Justin Ponsor, and lettered by Joe Caramagna. As always, Omnibus, the Digital Comic Store and Reader , sponsors our Referrals segment. This week, we selected two comic book titles on the site that satisfy this episode's themes. We won't spoil what they are here, but if you click the links below, you'll be immediately escorted to those books. Brad's Referral Lisa's Referral In addition, this episode is sponsored by Third Eye Comics , your friendly neighborhood comic shop with seven locations in the Maryland, DC, and Virginia area. They're your one-
Thu, February 01, 2024
Todd McFarlane: Secrets of His Success
The initial mission was to create a character who would outlast him. Todd McFarlane stared down Superman, Batman, and Spider-Man. He knew he had a character within him that could last beyond his own lifetime; he just had to pull him out. Spawn might not have outlived his maker yet, but he has survived and thrived these last thirty-plus years. As has Todd's action figure empire, McFarlane Toys, celebrating its thirtieth anniversary this year. Next month, Spawn continues its record-breaking run, reaching a milestone of three hundred and fifty issues. The comic promises to answer questions that have been building for years while laying the groundwork for a Spawn Universe explosion: seven new Spawn-related titles will hit shelves throughout 2024. You might think Todd McFarlane would be preoccupied with everything happening in his world in 2024, but he's already scrawling out his 2025 plans. Longevity is the great, underrated value in business. As is the importance of a thick back catalog ready to exploit when the spotlight falls upon it. This week, Todd McFarlane returns to Comic Book Couples Counseling for the fourth time, and it's our longest and most in-depth conversation so far. We ask him about the lessons we could all learn from the four decades he's spent in the comic book trenches. While he's initially resistant to accept that there are any lessons to grab, he generously opens up and shares his various philosophies. These are the secrets to Todd's success. Spawn #350 arrives from Image Comics on February 21st. If you want to continue our discussion with Todd McFarlane, you can find him on Twitter and Instagram , as well as his Website . Follow McFarlane Toys through Twitter and Instagram . As always, Omnibus, the Digital Comic Store and Reader , sponsors our Referrals segment. This week, we selected two comic book titles on the site that satisfy this episode's themes. We won't spoil what they are here, but if you click the links below, you'll be immediately escorted to those books. Brad's Referral Lisa's Referral <p id
Fri, January 26, 2024
Scott and Emma: New X-Men - Here Comes Tomorrow
Today, we get serious about ScEmma. After years of teasing it, we're finally tackling the complicated romance between the X-Men's Scott Summers and Emma Frost. It's a relationship born out of pain and surprise. Maybe it was not meant to last, but we can't ignore the lessons found within their passion. We begin our counseling session at the end of Grant Morrison's iconic New X - Men run, discussing the Assault on Weapon Plus , Planet X , and Here Comes Tomorrow storylines (issues 142 - 154). The psychic affair is known, out in the open for every X-Man and reader to judge. Scott and Emma are thrown apart, and their reunion must wait until Magneto's done with Manhattan. Once face-to-face, the riddle of their relationship could be the answer behind an apocalyptic future. What's Jean got to say about it all? Helping us navigate possible romantic catastrophes is Dr. Nicole Lepera and her book, How to Be the Love You Seek : Break Cycles , Find Peace and Heal Your Relationships . What hope does ScEmma have if Scott and Emma are alienated from their authentic selves? Can any relationship survive when one or both parties feel broken? New X-Men issues 142 - 154 were published by Marvel Comics between June 2002 and May 2003. They were written by Grant Morrison and penciled by Chris Bachalo, Phil Jimenez, and Marc Silvestri. They're inked by Tim Townsend, Al Vey, Aaron Sowd, Andy Lanning, Simon Coleby, BATT, Joe Weems, Billy Tan, and Eric Basaldua. The colorists were Chris Chuckry, Steve Firchow, John Starr, Matt Milla, Beth Sotelo, and Brian Buccellato. The letterers were Chris Eliopoulos and Rus Wooton. As always, Omnibus, the Digital Comic Store and Reader , sponsors our Referrals segment. This week, we selected two comic book titles on the site that satisfy this episode's themes. We won't spoil what they are here, but if you click the links below, you'll be immediately escorted to those books. Brad's Referral Lisa's Referral In addition, this episode is sponsored by Third Eye Comics , your friendly neighborhood comic shop with seven locations in the Maryland, DC, and Virginia area. They're your one-stop shop for al
Tue, January 16, 2024
Jadzia Axelrod on Hawkgirl: Once Upon A Galaxy
Regret is a poison we too often sip from in our lives. Resisting its toxin should be easy, but it's a practice we must continuously endure. Thankfully, we have writers like Jadzia Axelrod, who offer stories as gauntlets for us to charge through in our imaginations. Hawkgirl : Once Upon a Galaxy , the latest saga from Axelrod and artist Amancay Nahuelpan, forces Kendra Saunders to reflect on her life and the many past lives that came before and embrace the choices they made as the villainous Vulpecula suggests disastrous shortcuts. This week's episode is a conversation we've wanted on the record for some time. Axelrod's Galaxy : The Prettiest Star , done in collaboration with Jess Taylor, profoundly rattled our perception of what was capable within the DC Comics universe. The comic was astonishingly additive, something you don't often see these days, and we were eager to experience where such a story would travel next. The recent six-issue Hawkgirl series delivers on that book's promise in a big, big way and then dares to add a little more. We chat with Axelrod about her commitment to continuity even when tempted by a retcon. Axelrod explains her passion for fairytales and why they offered Hawkgirl's Kendra Saunders the firmest footing to stand upon. We also discuss Galaxy's perfect pairing with Kendra and why her story suggested relief for both heroes as well as those reading their adventures. Hawkgirl : Once Upon a Galaxy is currently available in six glorious single issues, but it will soon be collected in trade paperback on June 4th. You should definitely pre-order the book, but you shouldn't wait either. Jump on those floppies, as our conversation with Jadzia Axelrod is full-spoilers. There is simply too much happening in this series for any elements to be left off the mic. Continue our conversation with Jadzia Axelrod by following her Twitter , Instagram , and Website . As always, Omnibus , the Digital Comic Store and Reader , sponsors our Referrals segment. This week, we selected two comic book titles on the site that satisfy this episode's themes. We won't spoil what they are here, but if you click the links below, you'll be immediately escorted to those books. <li class="bCMSCT Unmlxj s-SEY public-DraftStyleDefault-unorderedListItem public-DraftStyleDefault-depth0 public-DraftStyleDefault-list-ltr fixed-tab-size public-DraftStyleDefault-reset OZy-3 lnyWN y
Sun, January 07, 2024
Flash Gordon at 90: Dan Schkade
Ninety years after his creation, Flash Gordon continues to soar in syndication. Helping us celebrate Alex Raymond's fearless champion this week is current Flash Gordon cartoonist Dan Schkade. Together, we explore why the confident space jock remains relevant and why the electric sexuality associated with the eighties cinematic adaptation is simply an extension of the raw heat present in Raymond's original strips. Since his birth, numerous stylists have had their way with Flash Gordon . He's been the subject of serials, movies, cartoons, and comic books. In his current strip, syndicated by King Features , Dan Schkade honors the eclectic creators who came before him, paying homage to their versions while filtering them through his unique perspective. This is your dad's Flash Gordon , but also yours and your brother's and your sister's. He belongs to every single one of us! What is the appeal of the square-jawed hero? In the wrong hands, such conviction could read as dull or false. Excitement ignites through the scenarios in which Dan Schkade erects around his can't-miss crusader. Each plot is a puzzle, not for the reader to crack, but for the character and the joy occurs in witnessing Flash Gordon solve it. Follow Dan Schkade on Twitter , Instagram , and his Website . As always, Omnibus , the Digital Comic Store and Reader , sponsors our Referrals segment. This week, we selected two comic book titles on the site that satisfy this episode's themes. We won't spoil what they are here, but if you click the links below, you'll be immediately escorted to the books. Brad's Referral Lisa's Referral Other Relevant Links: <li class="bCMSCT Unmlxj s-SE
Sun, December 31, 2023
Best Comics of 2023 (Part Two)
We can't put 2023 to bed without releasing our very last episode of the year, The Stampies : The Best Comics of 2023 ( Part Two ). Continuing the celebration from last week's Part One , we push into several other major categories, highlighting the exceptional art birthed into the universe by this beautiful medium. Aiding our love-in our numerous friends from the comics journalism and podcasting community. Frankly, too many wonderful comics were released in 2023, so it's always a blessing to have friends champion so many other titles. In this episode, we also unveil the first annual Jesse Tapia II "Champ Stamp" to a comics creator deserving of wider recognition and acclaim. This particular Stampie is offered in loving memory of our friend Jesse Tapia II, who sadly passed away in late 2023. Jesse was a magnificent and passionate comic book advocate, bringing joy and a comic recommendation to everyone he interacted with. We hope to live up to his tremendous enthusiasm for the art form. As we welcome a new year, we must thank every one of our listeners. You enriched our lives in ways that are hard to put into words. Five years ago, we started this podcast in the hope that there were a few others like us out there, eager to approach comics from a place of love and self-introspection. Finding you validated that dream. Thank you. We love you. Let's keep on' keepin' on in 2024. Read more comics. Make more comics. Love more comics. Part Two Category Timestamps: Writer of the Year - 20:50 Artist of the Year - 32:08 Best International Release - 40:30 Best Ongoing Series - 52:15 Best Limited Series - 1:03:11 Best Original Graphic Novel - 1:11:53 The Jesse Tapia II Champ Stamp - 1:17:36 Best Horror Series - 1:26:17 Best Grindhouse Experience - 1:28:10 Celebrity Guest Stars: David Brooke ( @NoSocialize ) from AIPT Kat Calamia ( @ComicUno ) from Comic Uno Christian Holub ( @cmholub ) from Entertainment Weekly Troy-Jeffrey Allen ( @TJAComics ) from RexCo and PreviewsWorld Jessika ( @jessikawitha ) and Mike ( @vansau ) from Ten Cent Takes <li class="bCMSCT Unmlxj s-SEY public-DraftStyleDefault-unorderedListItem public-Dra
Tue, December 26, 2023
Best Comics of 2023 (Part One)
It's here - The Stampies : Best Comics of 2023 ( Part One )! For the last two months, we've scrambled to read all the comics we missed during the year and compiled a gargantuan list of favorites. As far as the comics medium was concerned, 2023 was an impressively massive year for quality books. And once again, squeezing the best comics into one CBCC episode proved impossible. Of course, we couldn't read all the comics. So, if there is a personal favorite you see missing from our Stampies, please let us know. We're in this for discovery and want to read the comics you loved the most in 2023. Thankfully, we invited several colleagues to jump on the phone with this love-in and name their 2023 faves. You better get some scrap paper because you'll want to tally these books up on your own to-read list. Below are the timestamps for our categories and links to our most generous guests. Please take a moment to browse their good work and support this beautiful comics community. Part One Category Timestamps: Best Comic Book Couples - 14:04 Best Superhero Series - 19:25 Best All-Ages Comic - 28:24 Best Memoir - 36:23 Best Digital Comic - 46:53 Best First Issue - 55:33 Best Single Issue - 1:04:10 Celebrity Guest Stars: Sal ( @SalSaysWhat ) from Comic Pop Vactor ( @Vactor ) from The Vactor-Verse Aaron ( @betteractions ) and Chris ( @chacker41 ) from The Oblivion Bar Oliver Sava ( @OliverSava ) from Vulture , Polygon , etc. Robyn Warren ( @geekgirlstrong ) from Geek Girl Strong Aeric Azana ( @thatdaringman ) from Geeksplained Chris and Lance ( @CBKast ) from The Comic Book Keepers Badr Milligan ( @TheShortBoxJax ) from The Short Box: A Comic Talk Show As always, Omnibus, the Digital Comic Store and Reader , sponsors our Referr
Fri, December 22, 2023
Sarah Myer on Monstrous: A Transracial Adoption Story
A powerful imagination can be as burdensome as it is liberating. Born in South Korea and adopted at birth by a white couple, Sarah Myer struggled with identity in their rural and frequently antagonistic Maryland community. Cartoons, comics, and cosplay were their escape, but they could also cause Sarah to internalize their emotions. Monstrous : A Transracial Adoption Story is Sarah Myer's attempt to document their childhood and teenage years, where Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and Sailor Moon offered them flight from bullies inside and outside their school. The comic is raw, beautiful, and incredibly vulnerable. Also, it's easily one of the best books published in 2023. This week, we're joined by Sarah Myer to discuss Monstrous . We chat about their early connection with comics and cartoons, their triumphant ascent to professional Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles artist, and the challenges of putting your life out there for all to read. While Monstrous has a conclusion, Sarah Myer is still going, and they have more lessons to learn and stories to tell. Monstrous : A Transracial Adoption Story is now available from First Second . Follow Sarah Myer on Instagram , Twitter , and their Website . As always, Omnibus , the Digital Comic Store and Reader , sponsors our Referrals segment. This week, we selected two comic book titles on the site that satisfy this episode's themes. We won't spoil what they are here, but if you click the links below, you'll be immediately escorted to the books. Brad's Referral Lisa's Referral Other Relevant Links: <ul class="public-DraftStyleDefaul
Mon, December 18, 2023
Joshua Williamson and Tom Reilly on Duke and GI Joe (feat. a Robert Kirkman cameo)
This week, we got to get tough - Yo Joe! - with Joshua Williamson and Tom Reilly, the creative team behind the new Energon Universe series, Duke . The Man of Action experienced something unexplainable in Daniel Warren Johnson's Transformers #2, which rewired his purpose. Now, the Real American Hero is slipping into a "Walking American Nightmare," and General Hawk is concerned. We should all be concerned. Duke #1 lands in shops on December 27th from Image Comics and Skybound Entertainment. It's an exhilarating action-fueled outburst, showcasing two creative talents operating in top form. Joshua Williamson and Tom Reilly trickly navigate the needs of the Hasbro license while challenging nostalgic notions and delivering a compelling, spikey narrative. This is not the beige-colored toy you remember from childhood. Williamson and Reilly's Duke engages a transformative (pun totally intended) decision and there is no stepping back from it. We chat with the creators about their mission statement, how they reduced Duke to his raw essence, and how a childhood fascination with Cobra compelled them toward this comic's execution. While the Transformers and Void Rivals universes are quickly filling up with recognizable characters, the GI Joe comics realm may take more time to shape into your favorite military-based collectible toy line. Also, you might be a little nervous when Tom Reilly states, "Maybe when Snake Eyes shows up, he'll get shot in the face too." Got to get tough indeed. Oh, and you'll get a surprise cameo appearance from Robert Kirkman, too! Follow Joshua Williamson on Twitter and Instagram . Follow Tom Reilly on Twitter , Instagram , and his Website . Stay up to date on all things Energon Universe via the Skybound Website . As always, Omnibus , the Digital Comic Store and Reader , sponsors our Referrals segment. This week, we selected two comic book titles on the site that satisfy this episode's themes. We won't spoil what they are here, but if you click the links below, you'll be immediately escorted to the books. <a href='https://omnibus.app/shop/series/2023-godzilla-the
Fri, December 08, 2023
Scott and Emma: New X-Men (5th Anniversary Spectacular)
Five years ago, we launched this podcast with Scott Summers and Jean Grey. Back then, our conversation concluded with a tumultuous debate surrounding Grant Morrison's New X-Men and the complicated three-way that seemingly shattered an iconic Marvel Comics romance. With so much life lived since those early podcasting days, we return to New X-Men issues 127 through 141, this time examining them through the lens of Scott Summers and Emma Frost. Are they the one true pairing? Is the question even fair? Once again, we use The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman as our relationship guide, exploring Scott and Emma's Love Tank levels and considering how each could benefit from recognizing the other's Love Language. By shifting our relationship focus and surviving five strange years on this planet, our response to Morrison's New X-Men is totally different from how we previously reacted. Our hearts are open in new ways, but are we ready to declare ourselves #TeamScemma? We celebrate and reflect on five years of Comic Book Couples Counseling. Thanks to all of you reading this post and listening to our episodes, we've managed to grow our show and ourselves tremendously. We owe you. We love you. Also, we're joined this week by several artists and listeners who steadied themselves and braved our CBCC Hotline. These creators offer their good wishes, delivering some much-needed Words of Affirmation and absolutely filling our Love Tank. Please reach out to them online, say "Thank You," and buy their art. New X-Men issues 127 - 132 and 134 - 141 were published by Marvel between June 2002 and May 2003. They were written by Grant Morrison, penciled by John Paul Leon, Igor Kordey, Phil Jimenez, Keron Grant, Frank Quitely, inked by Bill Sienkiewicz, Igor Kordey, Andy Lanning, Tim Townsend, and Avalon Studios, colored by Hi-Fi Design, Dave McCaig, and Chris Chuckry, and lettered by RS and Comicraft's Saida, Jimmy, Wes, and Albert!, and VC's Chris Eliopoulos. As always, Omnibus , the Digital Comic Store and Reader , sponsors our Referrals segment. This week, we selected two comic book titles on the site that satisfy this episode's themes. We won't spoil what they are here, but if you click the links below, you'll be immediately escorted to the books. Brad's Referral <li class="bCMSC
Wed, November 29, 2023
Brian Michael Bendis and Alex Maleev on Masterpiece
Peanut butter and chocolate. Brian Michael Bendis and Alex Maleev. Two great tastes that taste great together. Whether you first encountered their delicious collaboration through Daredevil , Moon Knight , Scarlet , or whatever, once experienced, you must gorge on the rest. And it's an event - an emergency feast - whenever they reunite. Hitting shops on December 13th, Masterpiece from Dark Horse Comics is the next irresistible banquet from Brian Michael Bendis and Alex Maleev. In the solicits, you can see a few hallmarks you've come to expect from the two. However, we've read the first issue, and we assure you that this new crime series allows them to play in ways you haven't seen them do before. Bendis back at the drawing table? Yuuuup. Emma is a smart cookie. Her inventions and webcomics have paid her way through the fanciest schools. The sixteen-year-old seems like she's got it all figured out. Until a shady billionaire darkens her doorway, telling tales about her supposedly world-famous master criminal parents. Now, Emma has to put a squad together, uncover her genetic origins, and navigate a rich jerkwad's vengeance scheme. On this week's episode, we chat with Brian Michael Bendis and Alex Maleev about their long-lasting friendship and how it has fed their creative partnership and vice versa. We discuss what makes a Bendis/Maleev joint, their secret and not-so-secret Todd McFarlane origins, and how both had to adjust their working habits to aid the other. And we dig deep into Masterpiece and how it was born from generational tension. Are JNCO jeans really back??? Keep up to date on all things Brian Michael Bendis by subscribing to his Substack . You can also track him down via Twitter , Instagram , and his Website . Do the same for Alex Maleev by following his Website , Twitter , and Instagram . As always, Omnibus , the Digital Comic Store and Reader , sponsors our Referrals segment. This week, we selected two comic book titles on the site that satisfy this episode's themes. We won't spoil what they are here, but if you click the links below, you'll be immediately escorted to the books. <p class="Y9Dpf OZy-
Wed, November 22, 2023
Tom Taylor on Titans: Beast World
We invite Tom Taylor onto the show this week to discuss all the tasty relationship dynamics he's been exploring with the Titans ongoing series and why it's taken decades for these twenty-something superheroes to nab their first major DC Comics event book, Titans : Beast World . For too long, the world has relied on Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman, but their decrepit Boomer attitudes won't save the day this time. Everyone, please shut up and listen to Beast Boy. The Titans may no longer be teenagers, but they still struggle with the generational divide. Amanda Waller carries no weapon deadlier than her rapid-fire eye rolls. And Bruce Wayne isn't much better with his brutal absolutes and dismissive hand gestures. Is this generational battle essential to the Titans concept? Can they ever pull themselves out of the Justice League's shadow? These questions beat at the heart of our conversation with Tom Taylor, and it was a delight to explore what makes these unique DC characters so compelling. The Necrostar is a gnarly concept to tangle with, but its threat is secondary to how it affects the internal life of our beloved Titans. Titans : Beast World #1 hits shops on November 28th. Issue five of the Titans ongoing just dropped this week. Stay abreast of all things Tom Taylor by following his Twitter and Instagram . As always, Omnibus , the Digital Comic Store and Reader , sponsors our Referrals segment. This week, we selected two comic book titles on the site that satisfy this episode's themes. We won't spoil what they are here, but if you click the links below, you'll be immediately escorted to the books. Brad's Referral Lisa's Referral Other Relevant Links: <ul class="public-DraftStyleDefault-ul
Mon, November 13, 2023
Juni Ba on Mobilis: My Life with Captain Nemo
Dedicated to Jesse Tapia II. "What are you picking up today?" At some point, we all meet Captain Nemo. He's an icon: a literary legend, a Disney villain, and a comic book mainstay. As with Batman, Superman, or any other decades-old character, you probably have your favorite interpretation. Thanks to Juni Ba, there's a new version loose on the planet, and he may very well be our favorite one so far. That's a bold proclamation, but it's Ba, so hyperbole usually quickly transitions into stone-cold reality. Mobilis : My Life with Captian Nemo , published by TKO Presents , is a coffee-table-sized masterpiece that slaps ya in the face with nearly every page turn. One day, a young girl named Arona awakens aboard the Nautilus. She's greeted by a chipper, morally-centered robot and told the planet she once knew is destroyed and to stay away from the captain. Also, they have cookies. Juni Ba takes his lifelong passion for Nemo and Peter Pan and slathers it atop our environmental crisis with a heavy dose of anxiety, concern, and beauty. We've lost the world, but maybe the one that comes after is not so bad for those who inherit it. Change is change; removed from our perspective, it's not good or bad. The cartoonist returns to Comic Book Couples Counseling to discuss his Nemo obsession, the panic that birthed Mobilis , and what it's like to drop this graphic novel chunk during the same month as his other glorious creation, The Unlikely Story of Felix and Macabber , co-created with Hassan Otsmane-Elhaou and published by Dark Horse Comics . He also grills us on what the book says about humanity. The conversation is a dream come true for Lisa, certainly. As always, Omnibus , the Digital Comic Store and Reader , sponsors our Referrals segment. This week, we selected two comic book titles on the site that satisfy this episode's themes. We won't spoil what they are here, but if you click the links below, you'll be immediately escorted to the books. Brad's Referral <li class="bCMSCT Unmlxj s-SEY public-DraftStyleDefault-unorderedListItem public-DraftStyleD
Mon, November 06, 2023
Jeff Smith on The Secret Origin of Bone
At five years old, Jeff Smith brought Fone Bone to life. Immediately enthralled by the characters of Walt Kelly, Charles M. Schulz, Walt Disney, and others, the kid desperately sought to contribute his own creation. While most abandon their childhood ideas, Smith carried Fone Bone into his teenage years, college life, and adulthood. Why? The question rests at the core of this week's episode. We chat with Jeff Smith about his nearly lifelong relationship with Fone Bone and how it evolved from a cartooning challenge into an elaborate comic strip for his college paper and then radically expanded into the bestselling Bone saga. Even after concluding that twelve-year journey, Smith can't shake Fone Bone and his cousins. Scholastic's Graphix recently published Bone : More Tall Tales , an anthology jammed with Smith's peers (Tom Sniegoski, Stan Sakai, Katie Cook, Matt Smith, and Scott Brown), all giving their spin on the Bone universe. Especially noteworthy, Jeff Smith and Cartoon Books have launched a new Kickstarter, gathering the early stories that would ultimately shape Bone - Thorn : The Complete Proto - Bone College Strips from 1982 to 1986 and Other Early Drawings . Whatever glimpses we've previously seen of these Proto- Bone strips were brief and relatively limited. Having the chance to read them offers tremendous insight into our Bone obsession and into the artist that birthed it. Here is a Rosetta Stone of sorts. Some cartoonists might shiver at the thought of their readers encountering such early attempts, but Jeff Smith embraces the opportunity. As some might be aware, he recently suffered a debilitating heart attack. He's in a reflective state, and Smith looks upon his early work with a new perspective and consideration. And he's more than happy to share it with us. The new Thorn Kickstarter is an essential read for fans of Bone , and we believe this conversation with Jeff Smith is equally so. Join us as we travel back to the early days when a kid found himself in a cartoon and dragged that doodle through adolescence and into the various weird stages adulthood also offers. As always, Omnibus , the Digital Comic Store and Reader , sponsors our Referrals segment. This week, we selected two comic book titles on the app that satisfy this episode's themes. We won't spoil what they are here, but if you click the links below, you'll be immediately escorted to the books. <li class="bCMSCT Unmlxj s-SEY public-DraftStyleDefault-unorderedListItem public-DraftStyleDefault-depth0 public-DraftStyleDefault-list-ltr fixe
Tue, October 31, 2023
Jonna and the Unpossible Monsters: The Ultimate Laura and Chris Samnee Interview
We've wanted to have this conversation with Chris Samnee and Laura Samnee from the moment we read the first issue of Jonna and the Unpossible Monsters . Sure, we've had them on before talking about their beautiful comic celebrating sibling relationships, but we only had half the story. Now the comic is complete and contained in a gorgeously crafted new Deluxe Edition hardcover from Oni Press, and we can go full-spoilers, friends. Don't press play unless you're ready for a proper Comic Book Couples Counseling excavation. What is your responsibility to your siblings? Is the bond between you as sacred as we're raised to believe? Jonna and the Unpossible Monsters presents a world as terrifying as it is often hopeful. Trapped atop it are sisters Rainbow and Jonna, diametrically opposed in most aspects but bound together through familial obligation. And love, maybe? The comic represents a decade of Chris and Laura's life. We explore their earliest memories of Jonna and the Unpossible Monsters and how doodles in 2014 grew into their most personal work. It's a love letter to their children and a narrative that might never be topped, even if they have a few other ideas rattling around their imagination. As always, Omnibus , the Digital Comic Store and Reader , sponsors our Referrals segment. This week, we selected two comic book titles that satisfy this episode's themes. We won't spoil what they are here, but if you jump to the Omnibus digital shop, you'll find them readily available there. Stay up to date on all Samnee family projects via their socials. Follow Chris Samnee on his Website , Twitter , and Instagram . Follow Laura Samnee on her Instagram . Purchase the limited slipcase hardcover edition of Jonna and the Unpossible Monsters on the Oni Press website . Other Relevant Links: The Samnees on CBCC (First Appearance) Marvelocity: The Art of Alex Ross Final Round of Plugs (PHEW) Now Open - the CBCC Digital Shop! Support the Podcast by Joining OUR PATREON COMMUNITY ! <p id="viewer-9djma" class="xVISr Y9Dpf bCMSCT OZy-3 lnyWN yMZv8w public-DraftS
Fri, October 27, 2023
Kevin Eastman, Jeff Rowe, and the IDW TMNT Crew
This week's episode has all the toppings. Kevin Eastman, Jeff Rowe, Tom Waltz, Gavin Smith, Vincenzo Federici, Sarah Myer, Ben Bishop, Esau Escorza, and Isaac Escorza. If you're a shellhead, you're already flipping out. If you're not, you soon will be. There is no better time to be a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles fan. No matter your favorite iteration, there is a comic, cartoon, or movie for you. Brought forth from the sewers nearly forty years ago by Peter Laird and Kevin Eastman, the Ninja Turtles have since been filtered through numerous creative minds. From the moment the first toy was conceived, reinvention became critical to their success, and with each new interpretation, something radical was injected into their DNA. Currently, we have a new movie ( TMNT : Mutant Mayhem ) streaming on Paramount+ , the monthly ongoing IDW series, the Saturday Morning Adventures spin-off, and several gnarly crossovers, including encounters with Stranger Things and Street Fighter . In February, The Last Ronin II : Re - Evolution will hit comic book shops, satisfying a ravenous craving we've been holding onto since the first bestselling series dropped. We transformed New York Comic-Con into a TMNT expedition. First, we spoke with Kevin Eastman one-on-one, navigating his experience with outside creative influence and exploring exactly how he felt about the changes and additions made to the lore in TMNT : Mutant Mayhem . Second, we moderated the big Saturday panel, "TMNT: The Next Mutation of Turtle Power from IDW Publishing," which featured all the totally tubular people listed in the first paragraph above. Today's episode gets into everything that's cooking over at IDW, from exclusive details about The Last Ronin II to Sophie Campbell's historic climax on the main IDW line to director Jeff Rowe's dreams for a Mutant Mayhem sequel. We've discussed the Ninja Turtles several times before (see the links below), and it's all been building toward this episode. As always, Omnibus , the Digital Comic Store and Reader , sponsors our Referrals segment. This week, we selected two comic book titles on the app that satisfy this episode's themes. We won't spoil what they are here, but if you click the links below, you'll be immediately escorted to the books. <li class="bCMSCT Unmlxj s-SEY public-DraftStyleDefault-unorderedListItem public-DraftStyleDefault-depth0 public-DraftStyleDefault-list-ltr fixed-tab-size public-DraftStyleDefault-reset OZy-3 lnyWN
Thu, October 19, 2023
Kevin Alvir on Lisa Cheese and Ghost Guitar
We return from New York Comic-Con , bursting with stories and conversations. We've never had a show quite like this one, where every corner revealed some incredible new encounter and discussion. Cartoonist Kevin Alvir was there, sliding his way through artist alley, riding high, after recently launching his new graphic novel Lisa Cheese and Ghost Guitar : Attack of the Snack . Having barely absorbed all that we did, we try to put it on the record in this episode, recapping as much as we could while still teasing future CBCC sessions. We discuss the creators we hobnobbed alongside, the comic book podcasters we finally met in person, and all the weird food we jammed into our bodies. Most importantly, we hang out with Kevin Alvir. Our chat delves into his first-time experience with an editor, how he arrived at his Lisa Cheese and Ghost Guitar aesthetic, and why punk rock feeds a need that concerto piano never will. And, by the way, neither is better or worse than the other. As always, Omnibus , the Digital Comic Store and Reader , sponsors our Referrals segment. This week, we selected two comic book titles available on the app that satisfyingly align with this episode's themes. We won't spoil what they are here, but if you click the links below, you'll be immediately escorted to the books. Brad's Referral Lisa's Referral Continue the conversation with Kevin Alvir by following him on Instagram and Twitter . Lisa Cheese and Ghost Guitar is currently available from Top Shelf Productions , wherever fine comic books are sold. You can find your nearest shop here . Other Relevant Links: Kyle Starks Draws Comic Book Couples Counseling "The Awesome Power of Comic Book Podcasts" at NYCC FINAL ROUND OF PLUGS (PHEW): SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY JOINING OUR PATRE
Sun, October 08, 2023
David Dastmalchian on Count Crowley
Good evening, boils and ghouls. Welcome to a spooktacular conversation with comics scribe David Dastmalchian, discussing his devilishly delicious and wickedly personal horror comic Count Crowley . Currently, two volumes are available from Dark Horse Comics ( Reluctant Midnight Monster Hunter and Amateur Midnight Monster Hunter ), and a third chapter is nearly upon us ( Mediocre Midnight Monster Hunter hits the comic shops and graveyards on November 8th). To celebrate, Dastmalchian pulled up a coffin and put it all out there in our Zoom room. From the moment we first read Count Crowley , we were hooked. Obsessed. Not so much by its clever twist on the late-night horror host trope and its loving tributes to B-movie monster mashes (although we adore them too), but by the excavation of its central character's complicated inner life. We see so much of ourselves in Jerri Bartman, and, as David Dastmalchian states in the first paperback afterward, we could sense the author's life in her, too. We discuss his unique collaboration with artist Lukas Ketner and editor Megan Walker and how the lessons they taught him apply to the world outside of comics. David Dastmalchian ruminates on vulnerability and the anxiousness he experienced when crafting Count Crowley . Putting so much of yourself into a book is a precious thing and requires tremendous commitment, strength, and trust. However, before we get into it with Dastmalchian, we review our recent trips to the Fantastic Fest and Lost Weekend film festivals. We marvel at the lunacy of consuming so many movies in such a short time, detail our experience with living legend Malcolm McDowell, and select the best movies we saw and which ones you need to be on the lookout for next year. As always, Omnibus , the Digital Comic Store and Reader , sponsors our Referrals segment. This week, we selected two comic book titles available on the app that satisfyingly align with this episode's themes. We won't spoil what they are here, but if you click the links below, you'll be immediately escorted to the books. Brad's Referral Lisa's Referral Continue the conversation with David Dastmalchian by following his Instagram and Website . Purchase the Count Crowley books at your local comic book shop. Find the nearest one to you HERE . Stay up to date on all things Count Crowley via Dark Horse Comics . <p id="viewer-7itak" class="xVISr
Fri, September 29, 2023
Patrick Horvath on Beneath the Trees Where Nobody Sees
Don't take candy from strangers. Did you ever ask your mom or dad, "Why?" Or were you too afraid? Were you already too good at actively imagining what those strangers would do with you once they got you in the van? Beneath the Trees Where Nobody Sees by Patrick Horvath brushes against that very particular dread, playing with your nostalgia and injecting grotesque horror into your picturesque youth. Sam the Bear appears as the ideal small-town neighbor. She runs the local hardware store. She has a kind word for everyone who walks through her doors. And sometimes, she makes trips to the city where she can slaughter a stranger and bury their parts in the woods. Beneath the Trees Where Nobody Sees smashes serial killer iconography with an impeccably illustrated children's tale. When people talk about this comic, they will mention Richard Scarry. They will mention Dexter. The comparisons are obvious and accurate, but Horvath creates something far more tantalizing than genre fusion. Brad wrote in his review that the comic would only work if both elements were executed flawlessly. Patrick Horvath melds both worlds masterfully, creating a fantastically looking realm where its fears are tangible and utterly relatable. Beneath the Trees Where Nobody Sees is easily the most enjoyably upsetting comic you'll read all year. In this week's episode, we chat with Horvath. Our conversation begins with colliding these disparate worlds before exploring our childhood encounters with stranger danger lore. We discuss what Sam the Bear sees in the woods and why it sparks an existential crisis in the reader, and we cover how the comic's final two pages upend everything. Beneath the Trees Where Nobody Sees #1 hits shops on October 18th from IDW Publishing . It's written and illustrated by Patrick Horvath, lettered by Hassan Otsmane-Elhaou, and features a variant cover by Riley Rossmo. Continue this conversation with Patrick Horvath by following his Twitter , Instagram , and Website . This episode continues our year-long partnership with Omnibus , the Digital Comic Store and Reader. Each episode from now on will feature our new "Referrals" segment, sponsored by them, where we recommend other comics titles for those wishing to explore this week's themes and concepts further. CLICK HERE to learn more and explore Omnibus ' unique, browsable space
Fri, September 22, 2023
Dave Chisholm and Miles Davis and the Search for the Sound
Every accomplished creative work is miraculous. Bringing anything over the finish line should be celebrated. However, even rarer are the projects that find their way to the artist whom no one else could compete with regarding that project. Dave Chisholm was seemingly born to adapt Miles Davis' life into comic book form. Holding a doctorate in jazz trumpet from the Eastman School of Music, Dave Chisholm better understands Miles Davis than most cartoonists. The icon has haunted Chisholm since youth, and he's been attempting to translate Davis' vibe into visuals for nearly as long. After successfully capturing the audible into the sequential with three previous graphic novels ( Instrumental , Chasin ' the Bird , Enter the Blue ), Dave Chisholm got the call. THE. CALL. Z2 Comics, Chisholm's previous publisher, would partner with the Miles Davis Estate on an original graphic novel, and they wanted Dave Chisholm to make it a reality. The pressure was on, but we're here to report that Chisholm rose to the occasion. Miles Davis and the Search for the Sound is what happens when the perfect subject meets the perfect creator. When such an event occurs, all should take notice. Whatever your relation to Miles Davis, you need this comic in your hands. For the uninitiated, it's a gorgeously illustrated plunge into a genius' mind. For the faithful, Miles Davis and the Search for the Sound cleverly pursues the trumpeter's interior life, using his autobiography as the narrative backbone. We meet Davis after a severe car accident when a doctor suggests he start scribbling as part of his rehabilitation. The scrawls become our gateway into his history as Davis revisits the critical moments that made him. Along this journey, we encounter the legendary events and reflect on the divergent points that suggest a radically different path for Davis. And through it all, you sense Dave Chisholm celebrating and challenging the Miles Davis who helped shape him. On this week's episode, Dave Chisholm returns to Comic Book Couples Counseling . Together, we explore how Miles Davis molded his imagination and the pressure he felt to shape his massive life into one complete comic book saga. We discuss his joy toward the accomplished work and why he knows Miles Davis and the Search for the Sound is the best thing he's ever done. With such a feat behind him, does he worry about the empty road ahead? Afterward, continue this conversation with Dave Chisholm by visiting his Website and following his TikTok , Instagram , and Twitter . Mo
Fri, September 15, 2023
Christian Ward on Batman: City of Madness
A particular story has rattled around Christian Ward's imagination for years. It's been there since childhood, really. Since he first encountered Grant Morrison and Dave McKean's Arkham Asylum : A Serious House on a Serious Earth . Last year, he sent out a Tweet, taunting the universe to grant his wish - to tell his cosmic Batman saga. Now, we're weeks away from the cosmos' answer. Batman : City of Madness #1 lands on shelves from DC Comics on October 10th. It's a real humdinger, a comic that feels unlike any other Bat-book that has come before but is absolutely in conversation with the stone-cold classic mentioned above. Christian Ward explores the questions that probably nag every artist who tackles the Bat, but he does so in ways that spark new ideas and new queries. After catching a sneak preview of the first issue, we were eager to get the writer/artist in our Love Nest Zoom room. We discuss his relationship with Arkham Asylum : A Serious House on a Serious Earth and how it evolved into Batman : City of Madness . We consider Bruce Wayne's relation to his rogues and what does and does not separate him from so-called villains like Joker and Two-Face. As we do every time the caped crusader comes up on the podcast, we challenge his role as Gotham's vigilante while also addressing how much fun it is to watch him punch punks in the face. However, before we dig into City of Madness and the terrifying Batman Below that lurks underneath our favorite wretched city, we reflect on our Baltimore Comic-Con/Small Press Expo double-header weekend, including the world premiere of Married to Comics . We review these events and consider what makes each con so unique and why we could never give up one for the other. This podcast continues our year-long partnership with Omnibus , the Digital Comic Store and Reader. Each episode from now on will feature our new "Referrals" segment, sponsored by them, where we recommend other comics titles for those wishing to explore this week's themes and concepts further. CLICK HERE to learn more and explore Omnibus' unique, browsable space. Also, make sure that you keep abreast on all things Christian Ward by visiting his Website and following him on Twitter and Instagram . In a few weeks, Christian Ward will appear in our Patreon feed, conducting a page-by-page breakdown of Arkham Asylum : A Serious House on a Serious Earth . Join now for just one dollar , and listen to the previous entry in our comic creator series where artists celebrate their favorite single issues - Daniel Warren Johnson on The 'Nam #9. If you missed our pre
Fri, September 08, 2023
CBCC 93: Leon & Cody - Light Carries On
Episode 200! Light Carries On by Ray Nadine refuses to allow death to get in the way of a little life-changing romance. We go into session with Leon and Cody, two souls in stasis, unsure how to move forward and afraid their future won't hold happiness. Together, they uncover the beauty they're already living or un-living. You may think you know where Light Carries On will take you, but Ray Nadine blissfully subverts genre convention and delivers a genuinely original ghost story. Only in the last moments does clarity strike, and through Leon and Cody's revelations, we find a few for ourselves as well. This week, we turn to Dr. Terry Singh's TEDx Talk, "How to Get Unstuck," for expertise and guidance in navigating Leon and Cody's complicated relationship. Throughout our lives, we encounter various moments of stuckness. During these periods, catastrophic doubt and fear can creep inside. Dr. Singh gives us (and our comic book subjects) a few tools to free ourselves. After nearly five years of Comic Book Couples Counseling, we still find new methods and narratives to unlock self-inspection and create growth. The hope we found within this episode's conversation was rejuvenating. We hope it offers you a similar relief. Helplines are available if you do not have a support system. You can reach the Mental Health Hotline in Virginia by dialing 1-866-903-3787 or CLICK HERE . Not in Virginia? CLICK HERE . Light Carries On was released earlier this year and is published by Dark Horse Comics . It's written and illustrated by Ray Nadine, edited by Konner Knudsen, designed by May Hijikuro, and assisted by Digital Art Technician Josie Weaver. Episode 200 also begins a year-long partnership with Omnibus , the Digital Comic Store and Reader. Each episode from now on will feature our new "Referrals" segment, sponsored by them, where we recommend other comics titles for those wishing to explore this week's themes and concepts further. CLICK HERE to learn more and explore Omnibus' unique, browsable space. Other Relevant Links: Read Lisa's Light Carries On Review on Women Write About Comics Our guest appearance on The Amazing Spider-Talk Brad's guest appearance on The Oblivion Bar
Mon, August 28, 2023
SDCC 2023: Robert Kirkman & Friends (The Energon Universe)
We close our San Diego Comic-Con International coverage with an epic roundtable conversation with Energon Universe shepherds Robert Kirkman, Sean Mackiewicz, Joshua Williamson, and Daniel Warren Johnson. As you have undoubtedly heard, Skybound Entertainment is the new G.I. Joe and Transformers license holder. They recently launched their shared universe with a new comic book series called Void Rivals , written by Kirkman and illustrated by Lorenzo De Felici, and we think it's the most exciting event in comics. And that's based on only a tiny taste from Skybound. So far, we've read three Void Rivals issues, a three-page preview of Daniel Warren Johnson's Transformers , a Tom Reilly cover for Williamson's Duke #1, and an Andrea Milana cover for Williamson's Cobra Commander #1. Before we plunge into the chat, we dive deep into reviewing these early peeks, consider the cultural apocalypse on the brink within Void Rivals , and how it may ripple into the Transformers and G.I. Joe books. We find beginnings to be the most exciting moments in stories. In these early stages, characters (and their creators) determine their principles. What do the G.I. Joes stand for in 2023? What does Cobra stand for? How will the Autobots' interaction with humanity alter their already well-established mission? We bring these questions to the creators, whose answers give you some idea of how the Energon Universe will stand apart from previous interpretations. We did not steer this conversation alone. We were joined by a few other reporter friends: Lance from Comic Book Keepers , Jeremy from The Geekly Grind , Jace Milam from The Comic Source , and Gerard "HipHopGamer" Williams . Please take the time to visit their sites and support their work, as their perspectives created a unique collaboration for this episode. Also, listen to our guests' previous appearances on Comic Book Couples Counseling: Robert Kirkman on Invincible , Joshua Williamson on Superman , Daniel Warren Johnson on Beta Ray Bill , and Daniel Warren Johnson on Do a Powerbomb! Skybound is set to release Transformers #1 in October, Duke #1 in December, and Cobra Commander #1 in January. Keep up to date on the Energon Universe by visiting <a href='https://www.skybound.co
Mon, August 21, 2023
SDCC 2023: Nicole Maines on Dreamer
Moving one character from one medium to another is a complex task. Nicole Maines was desperate to see her Dreamer fighting alongside the other DC Comics superheroes. However, when she pitched the idea to the publisher, she didn't expect them to ask her to participate in that process. Quickly, Maines found herself as writer of Dreamer's destiny, and such responsibility was as thrilling as it was daunting. Already, Dreamer has appeared in Superman : Son of Kal - El and the DC crossover event, Lazarus Planet . She's rapidly becoming an essential element within the comics universe. Next year, she'll get some serious space to explore with the original graphic novel Bad Dream : A Dreamer Story, written by Nicole Maines and illustrated by Rye Hickman. At the San Diego Comic-Con International, we sat down with Maines to discuss her hopes and dreams for Dreamer. She reveals the critical advice that fellow comic scribe, Tom Taylor, delivered when her stress levels were high. Nicole Maines also reflects on how moving Dreamer through the comic book medium revealed unique aspects about the character she had not considered previously. Maines has been bitten by the comic book bug. She's here to stay, and she's delighted about the possibilities - for herself and Dreamer. If you haven't already, listen to Nicole Maines' previous appearance on Comic Book Couples Counseling , talking about Lazarus Planet alongside Mark Waid and Leah Williams. Remember, you can now pre-order Bad Dream : A Dreamer Story at your local comic book shop. Not sure how to locate your closest comic book shop, CLICK HERE to find it . Also, be sure to follow Nicole Maines on Twitter and Instagram . Other Relevant Links: Todd McFarlane on Todd McFarlane Jamie Lee Curtis, Russell Goldman, & Karl Stevens on Mother Nature <a href='
Fri, August 11, 2023
SDCC 2023: Todd McFarlane
During this year's San Diego Comic-Con International, finding someone working harder or as urgently as Todd McFarlane would be difficult. He was everywhere, announcing numerous projects one after the other. His partnership with Warner Bros. shows no signs of weakening as they unveiled numerous DC Multiverse figures, including a definitive cinematic Batman six-pack. McFarlane and Count Crowley creator David Dastmalchian revealed their Knights vs . Samurai series. He announced not one but five new Spawn comic book titles. And, yeah, he promised some big future news regarding his original character's big screen return. We were prepared to break it down with McFarlane when we met him inside the Image Comics booth on Saturday. He was probably excited to do the same, but something immediately shifted as we sat across from each other. He leaned into the Comic Book Couples Counseling concept and got vulnerable with us. Undoubtedly, you've read some Spawn comics. You know the character; you know his deal. You may not know or appreciate the philosophy driving the creation, however. Todd McFarlane puts it all out there in our conversation, leading to unexpected avenues regarding "chaos and consequence" and why he's so often disappointed by other comic books. We reflect on Marvel's Silver Age and Stan Lee's "The World Outside Your Window." Todd McFarlane challenges our idealized notions of this classic era and explains what he believes catapulted those characters into the public consciousness they preoccupy today. This episode is one of those episodes you wish could go on for a few more hours. There's never enough time. Maybe he'll join us again, and we can further follow these threads. Perhaps he won't. We're eager for you to hear this chat, though, and we think you haven't heard one quite like it from Todd McFarlane before. If you want to continue this discussion with McFarlane, you can find him on Twitter and Instagram , as well as his Website . Follow McFarlane Toys through Twitter and Instagram . Listen to our previous conversation with Todd McFarlane and Greg Capullo talking all things Batman / Spawn HERE . Other Relevant Links: Jamie Lee Curtis, Russell Goldman, & Karl Stevens on Mother Nature <ul class="public-DraftStyleDef
Mon, August 07, 2023
SDCC 2023: Jamie Lee Curtis, Russell Goldman, and Karl Stevens on Mother Nature
The path Mother Nature took to its sequential form is beautifully compelling. When Jamie Lee Curtis was nineteen, an angry story of global catastrophe and corporate greed took root. Time would pass, and along with her co-writer Russell Goldman, she would mold it into a potential movie. Her eventual friendship with New Yorker cartoonist (and former CBCC guest) Karl Stevens would ultimately yield the new graphic novel from Titan Comics. Curtis never imagined herself as a comic creator, but here she is, and she couldn't have been more thrilled to attend the San Diego Comic-Con International as one. We spoke with all three Mother Nature collaborators on the convention's second day. They were eager to share the book with us, making sure we had a physical copy in our hands, not satisfied with our PDF preview experience. It's one thing to see a comic on a screen; it's another to hold within your mitts. Mother Nature is a violently urgent comic. It's a supernatural revenge story in which a young woman goes on the attack against the oil organization that casually killed her father. Stevens illustrates numerous bits of bloody gore, and we chat with the creators about why this story had to be as gnarly as it is. The world is on fire, and she's furious. Don't believe the corporate narrative, maternity is defensive, and when it needs to be, it's vicious. While we devour the ground beneath our feet, the ground retaliates, and Earth's vengeance is as brutal as anything you've seen in a horror movie. Also, in this episode, we discuss our time inside the San Diego Comic-Con Museum , reviewing the current Animation Academy and Stan Lee exhibits. We extensively discuss our time outside the convention, visiting the best comic book shops in San Diego. Mother Nature arrives in comic shops on August 8th. You can find your nearest store HERE . You can find Karl Stevens on Twitter HERE and on Instagram HERE . Jamie Lee Curtis is on Twitter , Instagram , and Facebook . You can find Russell Goldman on Twitter , Instagram , and his Website . Check out our previous conversation with Karl Stevens HERE , discussing his graphic novel, Penny . Other Relevant SDCC Links: <a href='https://www.comicbookcouplescounseling.com/post/erik-burnham-teenage-
Fri, August 04, 2023
SDCC 2023: Erik Burnham on Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
For most of us, the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles animated series is where our shellshocked obsessions began. Now, IDW Publishing returns to this glorious era with their Saturday Morning Adventures offshoot with writer Erik Burnham and artists Tim Lattie, Jack Lawrence, and Dan Schoening busting out all the best Playmates action figures. The new series tickles nostalgic pleasures while keeping itself grounded in the now. Last week, we unleashed an onslaught of creator content to coincide with the San Diego Comic-Con International. And we are not done. On the west coast, we spoke with numerous comic artists about an eclectic batch of titles. This episode with Erik Burnham is part one, recapping our unique Comic-Con experience while also celebrating Turtle Mania 2023 with IDW and the new Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles : Mutant Mayhem film leading the charge. Burnham has worked in the Turtle trenches for years, but operating within the Saturday Morning Adventures realm is a tricky balancing act. In addition, since many found their Turtle love with the cartoons, there's an extra sting of responsibility that comes with it. From inside the SDCC IDW Booth, we chat with Erik Burnham about the joys and burdens of playing with these particular toys. We also discuss his new, secret TMNT project and what he'd still love to do within this universe. We adore any chance to dig deep into the mythology built by Peter Laird and Kevin Eastman. This chat is just the next chapter in an ongoing Comic Book Couples Counseling / Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles conversation, one that began with our Kevin Eastman interview and hit hyperdrive with our sibling counseling sessions. CLICK HERE to find all those CBCC/TMNT episodes . You can continue this conversation with Erik Burnham by following his Twitter , Instagram , and Website . Saturday Morning Adventures : Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles is now available in comic book shops. Find your local store HERE . As mentioned above, this episode is part of our San Diego Comic-Con International celebration. Listen to our Day One episode with Paul Cornell HERE . Listen to our Day Two episode with Adrian Tomine HERE . Listen to our Dary Three episode with Chris Condon and Jacob Phillips HERE . Listen to our Day Four Episode with <a href='https://www.comicbookcouplescounseling.com/post/stan-sakai-julie-sakai-
Sun, July 23, 2023
SDCC 2023: Stan Sakai and Julie Sakai on Dogu Publishing
In September, Usagi Yojimbo returns to Dark Horse Comics with the new mini-series Ice and Snow . However, that's just the warm-up. Stan Sakai and Julie Sakai have massive plans for their Dogu Publishing imprint, and we're eager to break it all down with them. Their creative partnership began on a short strip featured in Peanuts : A Tribute to Charles M. Schulz . We go back to their beginning and trace a path to where they are today, creatively and as a romantic couple. How did they know they would work well together? How do they navigate two unique perspectives to produce a singular work? Dogu Publishing is a family affair, and that larger collaboration kicked off with Chibi Usagi 's publication. Previously, we've dismissed this offshoot as cute and clever. However, upon re-examination this week, we discovered it's an essential entry in the Usagi Yojimbo story. And, yeah, it's brilliantly connected to the Usagi-Verse, which includes Space Usagi and a few other splinters you may still need to be aware of. This episode is part of our more extensive San Diego Comic-Con coverage, and since we're releasing on Sunday, we can reveal some new Usagi Yojimbo stories here. You should know, though, that at the 41:18 minute mark, we spoil a critical element from Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles / Usagi Yojimbo : Wherewhen #4. We've dropped a warning within the audio, don't worry. Usagi Yojimbo : Ice and Now #1 hits shelves on September 9th. We did get a preview of that issue, expect a review on the site very soon. Make sure you have it in your pull box at your local comic book store. If you don't have a local comic book store, you can find the nearest one HERE . Follow Stan Sakai on Twitter , Instagram , and Facebook . Follow Dogu Publishing on Twitter , Instagram , and Facebook . Most importantly, visit www.stansakai.com and get yourself some comics. Listen to our previous Stan Sakai episode , discussing all things Samurai Rabbit . As mentioned above, this episode is part of our San Diego Comic-Con International celebration. Listen to our Day One episode with Paul Cornell HERE . Listen to our Day Two episode with Adrian Tomine HERE . Listen to
Sat, July 22, 2023
SDCC 2023: Chris Condon & Jacob Phillip on The Enfield Gang Massacre
When we first started That Texas Blood by Chris Condon and Jacob Phillips, we enjoyed it as a nifty, nasty, clever Western Noir. Now, we're three trade paperbacks in and one issue into their spin-off series, The Great Enfield Gang Massacre , and we think we're reading an epic mythology saga exploring notions of lowercase evil and uppercase Evil. Friends, this is their Hellboy , whether they want to admit it or not. The Enfield Gang Massacre #1 hits shelves courtesy of Image Comics on August 9th. If this is your first entry into their world, it works magnificently as a Western mystery exploring the sins of a "Print the Legend" history. If you've read every issue of That Texas Blood , it works on a whole other level. Condon and Phillips' spin-off returns readers to Ambrose County 150 years ago, when outlaw Montgomery Enfield and his gang are accused of a grotesque murder. In issue one, the posse forms and comes gunning for these criminals. They'll find a fight on their hands. Maybe. In this episode, we chat with Condon and Phillips about the types of evil they're examining in The Enfield Gang Massacre and That Texas Blood . We consider how their brains morph to meet the needs of this particular story and why it demands a different aesthetic than their previous collaborations. We also consider together just how far back they can explore regarding the Ambrose County land. Cave dwellers and dinosaurs? Yes, please. You can continue this chat with the That Texas Blood creators by following Chris Condon on Twitter and Instagram and following Jacob Phillips on Twitter and Instagram . This episode is part of our San Diego Comic-Con International celebration. Listen to our Day One episode with Paul Cornell HERE . Listen to our Day Two episode with Adrian Tomine HERE . Tomorrow, Julie Sakai and Stan Sakai will be on the podcast talking about Usagi Yojimbo and all things Dogu Publishing. A week later, we'll return with some in-person interviews, including Jamie Lee Curtis, Karl Stevens, Todd McFarlane, and more. You better get subscribed to Comic Book Couples Counseling . Other Relevant Links: <a
Fri, July 21, 2023
SDCC 2023: Adrian Tomine on Shortcomings
Most people cringe a little when they look at their younger selves. Cartoonist Adrian Tomine certainly doesn't love revisiting his older work, but he was challenged to do so when adapting his own graphic novel, Shortcomings , for director Randall Park. We're ecstatic to have Tomine on the podcast today, discussing his recent revisitation of a work that gripped both of us when we cracked the page. The creator is generous with his time, process, and internal life. Shortcomings is - what did TNT use to call them - a new classic. It focuses on Ben Tanaka, a viciously judgemental twenty-something whose long-time relationship has suddenly erupted into uncertainty. Hit up your Google machine and find a classic review; no doubt the critic tackling the comic will address the likability issue. We certainly bring it up with Adrian Tomine in our conversation, and his answer is so beautifully Comic Book Couples Counseling . After this conversation, be sure to follow Adrian Tomine on his Instagram and through his Website . Purchase Shortcomings via Drawn & Quarterly or wherever fine comic books are sold. You can find your local shop HERE . The Shortcomings movie arrives in theaters on August 4th from Sony Pictures Classics . This episode is part of our San Diego Comic-Con International celebration. Our chat with Adrian Tomine aligns with Day Two. Listen to our Day One episode with Paul Cornell HERE . Tomorrow, Chris Condon and Jacob Phillips will join us to discuss The Enfield Gang Massacre . On Sunday, Julie Sakai and Stan Sakai will be on the podcast talking about Usagi Yojimbo and all things Dogu Publishing. You better get subscribed to Comic Book Couples Counseling . And, if you haven't already, now's the time to join our Patreon , where superstar cartoonist Daniel Warren Johnson just recorded an epic chat with us about his favorite single-issue comic, The 'Nam #9 . It's all part of our new Patreon podcast series, where we ask cool comic book creators to choose their favorite floppy comic. Other Relevant Links: <a href='htt
Thu, July 20, 2023
SDCC 2023: Paul Cornell on Con and On
The San Diego Comic-Con International is back, and just like last year, we're determined to bring the celebrations to our Comic Book Couples Counseling podcast feed. Whether you're attending the show or not, we aim to bring the con experience to your ears. All week long. Every day of the con, we're dropping one new, rad creator conversation episode. We're kicking things off strong today (Thursday), chatting with celebrated science fiction, television, and comics writer Paul Cornell. His new Ahoy Comics series, Con and On , is the perfect concept to launch our Comic-Con festivities as it celebrates and challenges everything we love about convention culture. Paul Cornell's new book focuses on the Vista Al Mar Comics Festival over five years, spanning three decades. Each chapter in the series covers a different year, returning to various characters as they succeed and fail in the industry. You'll recognize some faces, cheer at their victories, and cringe at their losses. Con and On pulls no punches, but it's not a heavyweight bloodbath either. Only someone who loves this world as much as Paul Cornell could write this book. While there is comedy and heart throughout, there is some anger, frustration, and a drive to advance beyond the tired, old ways. You can follow Paul Cornell on Blue Sky , Instagram , and his Website . Also, check out his Hammer House podcast . Make sure you're subscribed to the Comic Book Couples Counseling feed. Tomorrow, Adrian Tomine joins us to discuss his classic graphic novel Shortcomings and its upcoming adaptation directed by Randall Park. On Saturday, Chris Condon and Jacob Phillips return to the pod, breaking down their new That Texas Blood spin-off series, The Enfield Gang Massacre . Finally, on Sunday, Julie Sakai and Stan Sakai arrive on the pod and show all of us creative couples how to do collaboration right. These convos are the best panels around, and no standing in line is required. And, if you haven't already, now's the time to join our Patreon , where superstar cartoonist Daniel Warren Johnson just recorded an epic chat with us about his favorite single-issue comic, The 'Nam #9 . It's all part of our new Patreon podcast series, where we ask cool comic book creators to choose their favorite floppy comic. Other Relevant Links: <li class="u5tut TnW2P BB2aG x6pUR public-DraftStyleDefault-list-ltr rich_content_line-height-1_5 rich_content_padding-top-0px rich_content_padding-bottom-0px rich-content-UL public-Dra
Tue, July 18, 2023
CBCC 92: Invincible & Atom Eve - The End of All Things
With four Mark Grayson and Atom Eve counseling sessions already behind us, we finally reach a conclusion regarding their Invincible relationship. In this episode, we discuss the final two trade paperbacks in Robert Kirkman, Ryan Ottley, and Cory Walker's superhero masterpiece, The End of All Things Parts One and Two . While their ending is definitive, their story seemingly remains ongoing. We must reckon with what we're given and how far these characters have and have not grown since we first met them one hundred and forty-four issues ago. Also, in this conversation, we establish our last thoughts about our chosen love expert for Mark and Eve, Dr. Marc Brackett, and his book, Permission to Feel : Unlocking the Power of Emotions to Help Our Kids , Ourselves , and Our Society Thrive . Certainly, we'll apply numerous elements from this book to our partnership, but not everything jives with our current journey. Mood meters and meta-emotions, you're absolutely going into our utility belt. Invincible : The End of All Things contains nothing but Big Emotions, and they're somehow even larger than the usual Big Emotions the series throws at its characters. It's all in the title, and stress levels are extra high when facing oblivion. How do we challenge/embrace life's greatest threats? What can we learn from how Mark and Eve handle them? Our final Comic Book Couples Counseling Mark and Eve sessions also signify the start of a week-long San Diego Comic-Con International celebration. As you're listening to this episode, we're already traveling to the west coast. On Thursday, join us back here for an in-depth conversation with writer Paul Cornell, discussing his Comic-Con satire, Con and On . On Friday, we're chatting with Adrian Tomine about his classic graphic novel Shortcomings and the upcoming movie adaptation. On Saturday, Chris Condon and Jacob Phillips return to the show, teasing their new That Texas Blood spin-off series, The Enfield Gang Massacre . Finally, on Sunday, we were joined by Julie Sakai and Stan Sakai, giving us the scoop on all things Usagi Yojimbo and Dogu Publishing. And, if you haven't already, now's the time to join our Patreon, where superstar cartoonist Daniel Warren Johnson just recorded an epic chat with us about his favorite single-issue comic, The 'Nam #9 . It's all part of our new Patreon podcast series, where we ask rad comic book creators to choose their favorite floppy comic. Invincible issues covered in this episode: 133 - 144, published by Image Comics through the Skybound Entertainment imprint between February 2017 and February 2018. The comic was written by Robert Kirkman, penciled by Ryan Ottley, Cory Walker, inked by Ryan Ottley, Cory Walk
Thu, July 13, 2023
Tyler Crook on The Lonesome Hunters: The Wolf Child
Nearly to the day, Tyler Crook returns to Comic Book Couples Counseling to discuss The Lonesome Hunters , this time digging into its follow-up series, The Wolf Child . As he proved during his last session, Crook is eager to crack open his story and root around inside. There is life here, and we need to know what makes it tick. Centered in this conversation is a paraphrased Jack Kirby quote. In these notes, we'll present it in full as it was spoken during an interview on The Masters of Comic Book Art , introduced by the equally radical Harlan Ellison. You can watch the whole thing HERE . "I'm a guy that lives with a lot of questions. I say, 'What's out there?' and I try to resolve that. And I never can. I don't think anybody can. Who's got the answers? I sure would like to hear the ultimate one. But I haven't yet. And so I live with a lot of questions. And I find that entertaining...If my life were to end tomorrow, it would be fulfilled in that manner. I would say, 'The Questions have been terrific.'" Tyler Crook's comics, especially these first two Lonesome Hunters volumes, are all about scratching at those questions and bumping against unknowable answers. The Lonesome Hunters : The Wolf Child #1 is Tyler Crook on a plate. His script, his art, his letters, his everything. The comic is an out-there horror/fantasy adventure with a powerfully compelling intergenerational friendship at its core. You can read it as straight escapist entertainment, but it invites you to press down a little deeper and consider your reflection within its pages. Yes, it's absolutely a Comic Book Couples Counseling book. We're extremely thankful to Tyler Crook for joining us once again on the show and being so generous with his process and philosophy. Our conversation is about as in-depth as you can get without spoiling every little detail about the narrative. However, we'll probably need Crook back on the podcast so we can have one of our epic Ultimate breakdown conversations about The Lonesome Hunters . The Lonesome Hunters : The Wolf Child #1 is now available from Dark Horse Comics , wherever fine comic books are sold ( Click HERE to find the nearest one to you ). You can continue your conversation with Tyler Crook via his Twitter , Instagram , and Website . Also, you can listen to his music through his Bandcamp page (although it's also available on Spotify, Apple Music, and the like). If you haven't already, you can liste
Mon, July 10, 2023
50 Years of Red Sonja: Shannon and Luke Lieberman
Let the festivities begin! This year, Red Sonja celebrates her fiftieth anniversary, and as caretakers and licensors of the character, Shannon and Luke Lieberman are determined to transform 2023 into a massive birthday bash. A movie is on the horizon. Gail Simone has penned a new book, and a comics series is launching with a new number one written by Torunn Grønbekk and illustrated by Walter Geovani. It's set to release next week (7/19), which just so happens to coincide with the San Diego Comic-Con . Red Sonja, Shannon, and Luke Lieberman will be in attendance in San Diego in a major way, hosting a fiftieth-anniversary panel on Friday at 11:30 AM in Room 5AB. Joining them will be Amy Chu, Jimmy Palmiotti, Amanda Conner, Dan Panosian, Mark Canton, and several other significant Red Sonja creators. Do you know who else will be at Comic-Con next week? Comic Book Couples Counseling ! In fact, this week's episode launches our San Diego Comic-Con podcast blowout! As you'll hear within, we have some major plans for this year's convention, and our feeds will be stacked for the next two weeks. It all starts here with Shannon and Luke Lieberman discussing their unique relationship with Red Sonja, the responsibility they wield as legacy caretakers, and the special set of skills they both bring to this fascinatingly creative task. And, of course, we chat about the challenges and joys of working alongside your romantic partner. Stay up to date on all things Red Sonja by following them on Twitter , Instagram , and their Website . Also, be sure to check out our previous conversation with Luke Lieberman discussing his graphic novel collaboration, Alliances : Orphans . If you're attending San Diego Comic-Con, come find our Lisa Gullickson on the Comics Journalism : Looking at Panels Beyond the Page panel on Thursday at 4:30 PM in Room 24ABC. She'll be joined by Heidi MacDonald ( The Beat ), Jimmy Aquino ( Comic News Insider ), Brett Schenker ( Graphic Policy ), Avery Kaplan ( The Beat ), and Chris Arrant ( Popverse ). Other Relevant Links: Lisa Guest-Stars on Spec Tales CBCC Guest-Stars on Comic Book Keepers CBCC Guest-Stars on The Amazing Spider-Talk (Patreon) <p
Tue, July 04, 2023
Patreon Preview: Sandman #70, plus - an Announcement
For two years, we've discussed The Sandman on our Patreon, one episode at a time, one issue at a time. Periodically, we've dropped certain conversations into the main Comic Book Couples Counseling podcast feed, but it's been a while. Since we're nearly reaching the end of Neil Gaiman's original 75-issue run, we felt compelled to pull a Patreon conversation to all our wonderful listeners' attention. Our "Sleepwalking Through Sandman" Patreon series is an extremely vulnerable experience for us. Lisa read these comics in college, but her memory is foggy and mutated by time. For whatever reason, Brad never read The Sandman when it was initially on comic shop stands. Now, every week, we stumble through this iconic comic book series, desperately trying to absorb what Gaiman and his astonishing collaborators put down on the page. Frequently, we interpret things way off base, but thankfully, our Patrons guide us along and clue us into what we're missing. The result is episodes unlike any other shows Comic Book Couples Counseling produces. We're pretty darn proud of them. The Sandman #70 is the beginning of the end. Is it an epilogue, or is it the climax? Panel by panel, we debate the possibilities as we approach the original Sandman 's final issues. A small select group gathers within the Dreaming to pay their last respects to Morpheus while a new (?) Dream works on rebuilding what was lost during the battle with the Furies. For as little as $1 a month (or $12 a year) , you can access all our Sandman episodes and hundreds of other bonus podcasts. After finishing our Sandman #70 conversation, you can jump right on into our Sandman #71 conversation, already posted in our Patreon feed HERE . In this episode, we also announce a new Patreon podcast series. It's a show concept we don't see anywhere else online, and we think our listeners will be excited about it. Stay tuned for more information, and join up before San Diego Comic-Con if you want access to that particular comic book party. Sandman #71 was published by DC Comics with a cover date of August 1995. It's written by Neil Gaiman, illustrated by Michael Zulli, colored by Daniel Vozzo, seps by Digital Chameleon, lettered by Todd Klein, edited by Karen Berger, associated by Shelly Roeberg, and features a cover by Dave McKean. Sandman created by Neil Gaiman, Sam Kieth, and Mike Dringenberg. Relevant Podcast Links: Patreon Preview: Sandman #17 Patreon Preview: San
Mon, June 26, 2023
My Adventures with Superman: In Conversation with the Cast and Creators
Steel yourself. My Adventures with Superman is the Superman story you've been waiting for, friends. The new animated series (set to premiere on Adult Swim on July 6th and on Max the next day) is a joyful exploration, digging deep into what it means to be super. Not just from Clark Kent's perspective but also from Jimmy Olsen and Lois Lane's points of view. My Adventures with Superman is a vibrant, radical, and passionate outburst. The cartoon is a relationship saga, beginning just as these three wannabe reporters find each other and as Superman bubbles into a glorious idea. The show is also the best Superman adaptation we've seen since the 1978 movie. Those are big words, and we don't type them carelessly. MY Adventures with Superman . Noodle on the title's first word. The creators are considering a lot more with this show than just killer anime-influenced animation, fight scenes, and reinterpretations of classic comic book concepts. They're going inward, encouraging self-reflection, and inspiring us to think a little differently about these characters we've loved for so long. In this week's episode, we discuss DC Comics' long, magical history with animation. Our conversation begins with celebrating Batman : Mask of the Phantasm , which we just screened at the Alamo Drafthouse in Winchester, Virginia. We then review My Adventures of Superman , carefully avoiding spoilers while contemplating its thematic connections to Bruce Wayne's unique superhero journey. Ultimately, we chat with producers Brendan Clogher ( She-Ra and the Princesses of Power ), Josie Campbell ( New Champion of Shazam ), and Jake Wyatt ( Steven Universe ) before conversing with the actors portraying Lois Lane (Alice Lee) and Jimmy Olsen (Ishmel Sahid). What responsibility do these creators carry as caretakers for such titanic characters? Why does the world need another take on Superman? We get into it. Again, My Adventures with Superman arrives on Adult Swim on July 6th at midnight before hitting Max the next day. You can find Josie Campbell on Twitter and Instagram . You can find Jake Wyatt on Twitter and Instagram . You can find Brendan Clogher on Instagram . You can find Alice Lee on Instagram . You can find Ishem Sahid on Instagram . Other Relevant Links: Richard Donner Discusses Superman: The Mov
Thu, June 22, 2023
Gene Luen Yang on American Born Chinese
It's not up for debate. American Born Chinese , now streaming on Disney+, is 2023's best comic book adaptation. The streaming series miraculously transforms Gene Luen Yang's iconic graphic novel into something unique without betraying the book's characters or core emotions. You can experience both separately from each other or in conversation with each other; they're doing their own thing. On this week's episode, Gene Luen Yang joins the show to discuss the adaptation process and how it somewhat represents how he would tackle the material today in sequential form. When he looks back at the cartoonist who produced the comics in 2006, does he recognize him? The answer may surprise you. We chat about a few significant changes made to the narrative and why they were necessary. We discuss the impact stories have on our lives, and Yang details the specific tales that influenced his creative imagination. A few CBCC favorites delightfully appear. The American Born Chinese adaptation consumed Gene Luen Yang's attention, distracting him from his many deadlines. He's cooking up a lot of comics at the moment, and he's eager to put new stories out into the universe. We run through a few and predict a couple of our own comic book desires. You can watch American Born Chinese on Disney+ now and purchase the original graphic novel, published by First Second Books , from your local comic book shop . Be sure to follow Gene Luen Yang on his website , Twitter , Instagram , and TikTok . Other Relevant Links: Our Stan Sakai Conversation Our Mark Waid Lazarus Planet Conversation Our Mark & Eve Counseling Sessions FINAL ROUND OF PLUGS (PHEW): Also, JOIN OUR PATREON before we wrap up our 75-episode series on Sandman's first 75 issues. Don't forget! Watch the latest episode of The B&B Show , where Brad and Bryan Review the Hottest Cinematic Releases. And, of course, follow Comic Book Couples Counseling <a href='https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100068783884200&comment_id=Y29tbWVudDo1ODQzMjQ1NjI5MDQ5MTMwXzU4NTM0NjU3NjgwM
Wed, June 14, 2023
Kim-Joy on Turtle Bread
You rarely encounter an accurate depiction of social anxiety in art. At least an accurate depiction that reflects our experience. We found ourselves in Turtle Bread , the new graphic novel from former Great Britsh Bake - Off contestant Kim-Joy. The discovery was thrilling, emotional, and somewhat hard to believe. Here we are, wrapped up inside a gorgeous baking comic wondrously illustrated by Alti Firmansyah. It's a gift we're eager to hand to friends, family, and strangers. Look inside and see the weird doubt and negative self-talk we struggle against daily. However, Turtle Bread also taught us that our social anxiety might not be the hindrance we sometimes label it as. Our anxiety may come with benefits. In fact, our anxiety may be a superpower unto itself. This week, Kim-Joy joins the podcast to discuss her experience with social anxiety and how writing Turtle Bread in collaboration with Firmansyah allowed her to consider her inherent gifts. We discuss vulnerability, her time in the spotlight, and how anxiety makes every situation a nightmare, but in doing so, it minimizes the agony nightmares can have on you. Turtle Bread is now available from ComiXology and will see print via Dark Horse Comics on October 4th. Be sure to stay up to date on all things Kim-Joy by following her on Twitter , Instagram , TikTok , and her website . Other Relevant Links: Get Tickets for our Batman : Mask of the Phantasm Alamo Drafthouse Screening Get Tickets for our Scott Pilgrim vs . The World Alamo Drafthouse screening Read Lisa's Turtle Bread review Awesome Con "Writing Comics with Purpose" Panel Liz Reed & Jimmy Reed on CBCC Our Super Secret Across the Spider-Verse Episode FINAL ROUND OF PLUGS (PHEW): Also, JOIN OUR PATREON before we wrap up our 75-episode series on Sandman's first 75 issues. Don't f
Tue, June 06, 2023
CBCC 91: Invincible & Atom Eve - Full House
"This is not my beautiful house! This is not my beautiful wife!" Mark Grayson returns from his Rebooted life to find Atom Eve fully embracing that alien lifestyle and their daughter Tera well into childhood. He's missed so much but doesn't have time to cry about it. Thragg and his brood armada are on the march and thirsty for Grayson blood. We return to Invincible this week and our ongoing Mark and Eve counseling session. We are so close to the comic's climax and freaking out a little. Creators Robert Kirkman and Cory Walker slam the Grayson family through the grinder, attacking them from within and without. Our loving couple has survived a lot, but the Full House arc threatens to tear everything asunder. Most notably, Lisa's emotions, as she's reeling after nearly every page turn. Our heroes are bottling their feelings, struggling to express themselves to each other, creating opportunities for violent outbursts. Complicating everything is Tera, their little one, racing to experience life in a universe out to destroy her. Can Mark and Eve reveal their deepest fears to each other when they have to throw up protective walls for their daughter's sake? Helping us navigate this tumultuous time between Mark and Eve is Dr. Marc Brackett and his book, Permission to Feel : Unlocking the Power of Emotions to Help Our Kids , Ourselves , and Our Society Thrive . We've reached the portion detailing the dangerous game of expressing yourself. You must put yourself out there, but you cannot control how the person across from you will react. What do you do when your partner's emotional response clashes with your vulnerable unveiling? Brackett might not have a solution for you, but maybe we do. Maybe. Helplines are available if you do not have a support system willing to hear you out during these vulnerable moments of expression. You can reach the Mental Health Hotline in Virginia by dialing 1-866-903-3787 or CLICK HERE . Issues covered in this episode: Invincible 127 - 132, published by Image Comics under the Skyboud Entertainment imprint, released between April 2016 and February 2017. The comic was written by Robert Kirkman, illustrated by Cory Walker, colored by Nathan Fairbairn, and lettered by Rus Wooton. Other Relevant Links: CBCC Mark & Eve Episode 1 - Robert Kirkman programs our sessions CBCC Mark & Eve Episode 2 - Modern Family CBCC Mark & Eve Episode 3 - Reboot? <
Thu, May 25, 2023
Patton Oswalt and Jordan Blum on Minor Threats
Woe unto the city where the sidekick dies. In Minor Threats , Jordan Blum and Patton Oswalt plunge into the chaotic relationship dynamics that fuel the best spandex stories, shifting the microscope toward the C-list, well, maybe the D-List "super" crooks that frequently fall under the boots of top-tier heroes and villains. Kid Dusk is dead. The sinister Stickman pulled the trigger. Now, The Insomniac is on a rampage to secure justice...vengeance...payback. Tomayto, tomahto. Hoping to restore normalcy and score a little promotion, a group of small-time henchmen seeks the bounty on Stickman's head. Minor Threats is a dense four-issue series from Dark Horse Comics, beautifully illustrated by Scott Hepburn. The three artists create a massive canvas with endless possibilities. Jordan Blum and Patton Oswalt pick at these niggling strands that have teased their imaginations since childhood. Their comic celebrates everything we love about superhero stories while classically exploring the world outside our windows. They're merely following in the footsteps of Stan Lee, Jack Kirby, and Joe Simon. Chatting with Jordan Blum and Patton Oswalt this week was a giddy pleasure. The conversation splinters into numerous directions, at once continuing our seemingly never-ending CBCC Batman discourse while considering the cathartic and bleak comedy found within Biggie Smalls' lyrics. Our discussion covers a lot of ground, Wyatt Earp, The Wire , Sergio Aragonés, Grant Morrison, and more. You are in for a serious geeky treat. Minor Threats is now available in single issues, but the trade paperback will arrive in comic book shops on June 21st. You can find your nearest comics retailer HERE . Continue this conversation by following Patton Oswalt on Twitter , Instagram , and his Website . Please follow Jordan Blum on Twitter and Instagram . And watch Marvel's M.O.D.O.K. now streaming on HULU . Other Relevant Links: Tom King and Mitch Gerads on Batman : The Brave and The Bold Tom King on Danger Street & Batman Get Tickets to our Alamo Drafthouse TMNT 1990 Screening Get Tickets to our Alamo Drafthouse <e
Thu, May 18, 2023
Tom King on Danger Street
Once upon a time, in a far-off kingdom, Tom King returned! In this episode, we go into the woods and down the dell; the path is straight toward Danger Street ! We're talking with the creator about his utterly absurd and equally delightful maxi-series, illustrated by Jorge Fornés, colored by Dave Stewart, lettered by Clayton Cowles, and currently on the stands from DC Comics . What's the tougher task - knocking out another Batman story or creating a narrative where twenty-three random superhero rejects make perfect inhabitants? Tom King takes us through Danger Street 's creation, the mission he's hoping to accomplish with it, and how these characters have caused him to reconsider other staples from the DC Comics stable. Our conversation also allows us to delve into our recent obsession with comic book dollar bins, an obsession that Tom King most definitely shares. Within those glorious longboxes, you never know what you'll find; for Tom, they might be the basis for his next weirdo spandex drama. Most importantly, Danger Street radically aligns with a larger conversation that we've been having at Comic Book Couples Counseling. The tiniest acts, the tiniest kindnesses, can have the most massive of impacts on our larger society. Sometimes, the greatest superpower is your availability. Showing up for others and showing up for yourself can save the day. This episode covers Danger Street 's first six issues, but it's not spoiler-heavy. Our hope is that the conversation will encourage new readers to jump onto the title, so we're not looking to ruin anyone's good time. Follow Tom King on Twitter and Instagram . Find your local comic book shop to nab all his comics. Other Relevant Links: Tom King and Mitch Gerads on Batman : The Brave and The Bold Tom King and Elsa Charretier on Love Everlasting CBCC Counseling Session on Mister Miracle CBCC Counseling Session on Batman : The Best Man CBCC Counseling Session on The Vision <a href='https://www.comicbookcouplescounseling.com/p
Tue, May 16, 2023
Mitch Gerads and Tom King on Batman: The Brave and The Bold
We get highfalutin with Mitch Gerads and Tom King, discussing their latest Dark Knight collaboration, "The Winning Card," as it appears in Batman : The Brave and the Bold #1, out now from DC Comics. The longtime collaborators continue to test each other, pulling the very best from one another and delivering a Batman tale unlike any other. It's Year One for both Bats and Joker. They're looking to prove themselves. They're looking to sell themselves to Gotham City. And sell themselves as something beyond the mere mortals that they are. Or are they? Is there something more to their masks, their supernatural charade? Tom and Mitch have their perspectives on what it means to be superhuman, and yeah, so do we, especially Lisa. The hot takes are flying fast and furious this week as we dig into Bruce Wayne's mission to fix Gotham, dissect the scariest Joker in ages, and what propels Mitch Gerads and Tom King to collaborate. This episode is Part One of a Two-Part DC Comics celebration. Please return in just a few days to hear us go further down the highfalutin boom tube rabbit hole as Tom King sticks around the Love Nest, chatting about the ultra-rad and rather incredible Danger Street miniseries. Follow Mitch Gerads on Twitter and Instagram . Follow Tom King on Twitter and Instagram . Find your local comic book shop to pick up Batman : The Brave and the Bold #1. Other Relevant Links: Tom King and Elsa Charretier on Love Everlasting CBCC Counseling Session on Mister Miracle CBCC Counseling Session on Batman : The Best Man CBCC Counseling Session on The Vision FINAL ROUND OF PLUGS (PHEW): Also, JOIN OUR PATREON before we wrap up our 75-episode series on Sandman's first 75 issues. Don't forget! Watch the latest episode of The B&B Show , where Brad and Bryan Review the Hottest Cinematic Releases. And, of course, follow Comic Book Couples Counseling <a href='https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1000
Sat, May 06, 2023
Free Comic Book Day with Jesse Lonergan and Third Eye Comics
We celebrate Free Comic Book Day with Jesse Lonergan and Steve Anderson from Third Eye Comics. Our first-ever spectacular promoting the annual event where comic readers collide to nab free comics but, more importantly, buy comics. Free Comic Book Day is a shop appreciation day, not a customer appreciation day. So, be kind, say thank you, and discover a new universe of titles and characters. Exploration is your mission. In our first portion, we chat extensively with Steve Anderson about his new Buys and Bargains Third Eye Comics location in Annapolis, Maryland. What purpose does this particular store offer that the others don't? What goodies did we come away with during our little shop preview? What does the retailer of one of the country's best comic shops think about the industry today, and what are the comics he's most excited to read? We get into it. In our second half, we speak with cartoonist extraordinaire Jesse Lonergan about his new Mike Mignola collaboration, Miss Truesdale and the Fall of Hyperborea , published by Dark Horse Comics. For Hellboy fans, this is an essential entry, further detailing the ancient mythology that frequently steers Anung Un Rama's fate. We discuss the responsibility of working with such precious characters and why Lonergan was such a natural fit. We also get into the weeds of pacing, time, and who controls what within the comics medium. It's another can't-miss conversation. There are few days of the year we enjoy more than Free Comic Book Day. We all owe a lot to Joe Field, the Flying Colors comic shop proprietor who originated the concept. If you would like to know more about the event's origins, be sure to listen to The Short Box podcast . The latest episode features an extensive interview with Field. You should also check out the Comic Book Couples Counseling Free Comic Book Day PSA ! Most importantly, visit Third Eye Comics ! Follow them on Twitter , Instagram , and TikTok . You can also keep track of Jesse Lonergan on Twitter , Instagram , and his Website . Wait, there's more! You should listen to our other Mignolaverse celebration with creators Rob Williams and Warwick Johnson-Cadwell . FINAL ROUND OF PLUGS (
Mon, April 24, 2023
Collin Kelly and Jackson Lanzing on Star Trek
Collin Kelly and Jackson Lanzing return to Comic Book Couples Counseling , discussing their longstanding Star Trek obsession and how they transformed it into a propulsive narrative for the rest of us to enjoy. Their latest IDW Publishing series picks up where Star Trek : Deep Space Nine left off, fulfilling Benjamin Sisko's promise to his son. The Emissary returns from the Wormhole on a mission to halt a God-killing entity while reconnecting with an emotionally anxious Jake Sisko. As longtime Sisko stans ourselves, we've been itching to discuss our favorite Star Trek captain. As a father, he serves a function unlike any other lead character. His priorities create a unique relationship with Starfleet and the Federation, and it's a joy to see how that tug-of-war continues beyond the sevens seasons we consumed on television. Partnering with artists Ramon Rosanas, Oleg Chudakov, Joe Eisma, and Erik Tamayo (not to forget amazing variant cover artists like friend-of-the-pod Christian Ward - peep that gorgeous episode art), Kelly and Lanzing have carved a living universe for Star Trek comics. Their story is free to explore new areas along the timeline; untouched by the live-action iteration. Truly, they're boldly going where no one has gone before. The first six issues in their Star Trek series are currently available and will be collected in the "Godshock" trade paperback on July 18th . Also discussed in this week's episode is the new Guardians of the Galaxy series spearheaded by Jackson Lanzing and Collin Kelly. Part one in the "Grootfall" storyline is now available from Marvel Comics. Mystery surrounds their Space Western, but within this episode, you'll learn how these creators won't leave you stressing for too long. GofG , Star Trek , Captain America , Batman Beyond . These two have a lot going on. Keep up to date by following their socials. Hit up Collin Kelly on Twitter . Find Jackson Lanzing on Twitter and Instagram . Check out our previous episode with the Hivemind, talking about One Bad Day : Clayface . And listen to our Tom Brevoort chat regarding Fantastic Four's sixtieth anniversary. Also, JOIN OUR PATREON and watch Brad and Dolph Lundgren cele
Tue, April 18, 2023
Patreon Preview: Matt Bors and Ben Clarkson on Justice Warriors
You got comedy in my dystopia! You got dystopia in my comedy! Two great tastes that taste great together! In our latest Creator Cranny conversation, we chat with Pulitzer Prize finalist Matt Bors and Adult Swim filmmaker Ben Clarkson about their righteously hilarious buddy cop sci-fi satire, Justice Warriors . The new book from Ahoy Comics is a viciously funny tale about two Bubble City law enforcers maintaining the peace of the Uninhabited Zone. At the same time, their mayor desperately tries to up his album sales. Prepare yourselves before entering these pages, as what you'll find within is painfully silly and horrifyingly recognizable as our own dystopian present. Justice Warriors sparked a fire in us, and we were more than excited to have Matt Bors and Ben Clarkson in our Love Nest continuing to stoke the flames. Justice Warriors is one of our favorite comics of 2023. The book is biting, absurd, and frickin' hysterical, and the art is astonishingly beautiful. Gaze upon these panels and marvel. Ben Clarkson tortured himself to put these characters and hyper-detailed backgrounds together. Justice Warriors is busting with visual gags, demanding a second, third, and fourth read. In this conversation, we explore the nature of speaking to the moment, the purpose of art, and the many, many influences that fueled Justice Warriors (does anyone else remember C.O.P.S. , the animated series ?). Of course, we never let ourselves get too serious either, and it's impossible with Bors and Clarkson around. This year has already proven to be an exceptional year for comics, so don't let Justice Warriors slip past your radar. Jump over to the Ahoy Comics website and give these pages a gander. They're irresistible. Also, follow Matt Bors on Twitter , Instagram , and his Website . Follow Ben Clarkson on Twitter , Instagram , and his Website . Other Relevant Links: Listen to the Missing Frame Interview with Richard Donner Read Brad's Film School Rejects Interview with Phil Tippett Bid on Matt Bors' Spawn Cover on the Four Color Fantasies Facebook Page SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY JOINING OUR PATREON C
Mon, April 10, 2023
CBCC 90: Invincible & Atom Eve - Reboot?
When is a reboot not a reboot? When Robert Kirkman and Invincible are involved. We've reached the halfway point in our Mark and Atom Eve counseling sessions, delving into one of their relationship's most complicated and gut-wrenching moments. Surviving this moment is absolutely critical for themselves and the fate of the universe, and possibly the romance between the two podcasters making this episode! If you could go back in time with the knowledge you possess today, would you do better, be better? You'd like to think so, but living in the now is the only path forward. That path, however, is always difficult, and there are no shortcuts. Helping us navigate this tumultuous time between Mark and Eve is Dr. Marc Brackett and his book, Permission to Feel : Unlocking the Power of Emotions to Help Our Kids , Ourselves , and Our Society Thrive . To properly enjoy this episode, you'll want access to The Mood Meter, which you can find HERE or HERE . You may also want the Jim Varney Mood Meter too, which you can find HERE . Issues covered in this episode: Invincible 121 - 126, published by Image Comics under the Skyboud Entertainment imprint, released between July 2015 and December 2015. The comic was written by Robert Kirkman, penciled by Ryan Ottley, inked by Cliff Rathburn and Ryan Ottley, colored by Jean-Francois Beaulieu, and lettered by Rus Wooton. Catch up on our previous Invincible conversations. Check out our chat with Robert Kirkman and hear him program our Mark and Eve counseling sessions. Listen to our first session with Mark and Eve , discussing the Modern Family storyline. Other relevant links: Get your tickets for our Superman : The Movie Alamo Drafthouse Screening. Get your tickets for our Superman II : The Richard Donner Cut Alamo Drafthouse Screening. David Harper interviews Robert Kirkman Don't forget! Check out the latest episode of The B&B Show , where Brad and Bryan Review the Hottest Cinematic Releases. And, of course, follow Co
Fri, March 31, 2023
Creator Corner: Evan Narcisse on Milestone 30th Anniversary Special
Thirty years ago, Milestone Media dropped into comic shops. Their books were almost unrecognizable next to the other comics being published at the time. They were politically charged, radically motivated, and bursting with boundless creative energy. Founded by Dwayne McDuffie, Denys Cowan, Michael Davis, and Derek T. Dingle, Milestone Media changed the game and delivered iconic characters like Static, Hardware, Blood Syndicate, Rocket, and, yeah, Icon. If you want to understand the context surrounding Milestone's creation and its profound impact on the industry, you need to check out the documentary Milestone Generations , currently streaming on HBO Max. Our guest this week, Evan Narcisse, worked extensively on the film. He's also been cranking out rad comics like Wildstorm vs . Waller and the short story "Universal Beings," which appeared in DC Comics' recent Milestone 30th Anniversary Special . "Universal Beings" is a magnificent tale, a catastrophic tiny epic that smashes the original Milestone Universe from 1993, with the updated version dominating comic shops today. Inspired by the classic multiversal comic "Flash of Two Worlds," Narcisse's story allows him to confront contemporary notions of progress while supplying a kickass superhero adventure. What would 1993's Static think of 2023's Static, and vice versa? The conversation is thematically charged like all good Milestone books. Narcisse also takes a moment to celebrate the genius of Dwayne McDuffie and all the eclectic voices that pulled Milestone out of nothingness and gifted the world the Dakotaverse, an unparalleled comics arena. In addition to relaunching these classic characters, DC Comics recently published two massive compendiums collecting the nineties Milestone stories. They are worth your attention . Also, be sure to follow Evan Narcisse on Twitter . Before Evan Narcisse joins the show, Lisa suffers through Brad's long-winded review of his 2023 WonderCon experience. You're paying attention if you can sense a little jealousy in that last sentence. Or is that envy? You'll have to listen to next week's podcast to answer that last question. Just know this, Brad had an amazing time in Anaheim, filled with all manner of creator interactions, panels, and comics purchasing. The WonderCon Review ends at the 21:56 minute mark. If you want to hear a more immediate review of WonderCon Day 1, check out The Geekly Grind podcast . And while you're at it, follow our friend Lance's adventures at Comic Book Keepers . Other Relevant Links: Daniel Warren J
Thu, March 23, 2023
CBCC 89: Invincible & Atom Eve - Modern Family
Few comics feel as epic as Invincible by Robert Kirkman, Cory Walker, and Ryan Ottley. As such, it presents an incredible challenge for Comic Book Couples Counseling . Where do we start if we want to properly analyze the complicated romantic relationship between Mark Grayson and Samantha Eve Wilkins? For years, the question has gotten in the way of programming our Invincible counseling sessions, but last week, Robert Kirkman himself came to our rescue. We've said this on the podcast before, but we didn't really know each other until we were a few years into our marriage. With that in mind, Kirkman suggested we start our counseling sessions later in Mark and Eve's romantic timeline, just after they became parents. In this massive episode, we begin our new counseling series by jumping into Invincible almost toward its end. Invincible : Modern Family finds Earth thriving under a dictatorship. SPOILERS for those that have not read the entire Invincible saga - Robot has taken over, and his tyranny seems horrifyingly logical. Mark and Eve cannot throw themselves into combat as a new family, choosing to leave Earth behind and make a life amongst the stars. However, are they proactively prospering as a badass superhero couple, or are they stuffing their emotions and hiding from those dark thoughts that reside within? Helping us navigate this tumultuous time between Mark and Eve is Dr. Marc Brackett and his book, Permission to Feel : Unlocking the Power of Emotions to Help Our Kids , Ourselves , and Our Society Thrive . Get ready to challenge your meta-emotions, friends. Issues covered in this episode: Invincible 115 - 120, published by Image Comics under the Skyboud Entertainment imprint, released between September 2014 and May 2015. The comic was written by Robert Kirkman, penciled by Ryan Ottley, inked by Cliff Rathburn and Ryan Ottley, colored by Jean-Francois Beaulieu, and lettered by Rus Wooton. A word of caution about today's episode. Our conversation briefly touches upon sexual assault. We don't get into the details, but if this is a sensitive subject for you, please feel free to skip it and we'll catch you next week. If you or someone you know needs to talk to someone, you can call 1-800-656-4673 and you'll be routed to a local sexual assault service provider in your area. Other relevant links: Get your tickets for our Superman : The Movie Alamo Drafthouse Screening. Get your tickets for our Su
Mon, March 13, 2023
Robert Kirkman Programs Our Invincible Podcast
Twenty years ago, Robert Kirkman unleashed Invincible upon the planet. The comic represented an opportunity to do everything he ever imagined a superhero comic was capable of doing. Through Image Comics (and what would eventually develop into his own Skybound Entertainment), the comic creator found a narrative freedom that previously proved impossible at the big two comic companies. In the process, he also created an utterly compelling romance that took significant time to develop, causing profound melodramatic tension in his audience. We're positively giddy to welcome Robert Kirkman onto the show this week. For years, we've wanted to cover Mark Grayson and Atom Eve's relationship. Invincible is such a massive story, and we needed to figure out where to begin and how to cram it all into four Counseling Session episodes. Thankfully, Kirkman knew exactly how we could pull it off and was happy to help us through our programming. Before we meet up with Kirkman, however, we run down our recent Seattle trip and review the magnificent Emerald City Comic Con . As first-time attendees, we were overwhelmed with everything the convention offered, from in-depth panels to an endless array of comic artists. All cons have their own vibe, and ECCC was no exception. You may want to add this show to your yearly schedule. Access to Lola pancakes might be reason enough. Our Seattle review concludes at the 18:19 minute mark. You can skip it if all you're here for is the Robert Kirkman talk, but then you'd miss out on Lisa's hairdo debacle, which would be a terrible shame. Our chat with Robert Kirkman does drift into a little Fire Power celebration. We couldn't help ourselves, especially when we considered how that comic's central romance sorta operates as a spiritual sequel to the one shared between Mark and Eve. We don't go into any major spoilers. So, if all you've seen is the Invincible television series, this episode is a safe space. Make sure that you follow Robert Kirkman on his Twitter and through the Skybound Entertainment website . Invincible recently published an anniversary facsimile edition, a stripped-down black and white number one, and a new deluxe edition compendium. Seek those out at your local comic shop . Other relevant links to this week's episode: Read Lisa's Do A Powerbomb! Comics Beat Review Join us on March 12th at 4:00 PM at the Alamo Drafthouse in Winchester, Virginia for our Lone Wolf and Cub:
Wed, March 01, 2023
The Ultimate Do A Powerbomb! Daniel Warren Johnson Interview
Few comics operate like Do A Powerbomb! Cartoonist Daniel Warren Johnson does his thing (along with genius colorist Mike Spicer), pulling you in with the most incredible, kinetic, and badass panels while slowly engaging your heart and soul. When the comic reaches its jaw-dropping climax, you're shook and probably requiring a little alone time to get all those uncontrollable tears out of your system. Since the very first issue, we've been championing Do A Powerbomb! We've folded the comic into our all-time favorites, reaching into it and finding ourselves over and over again with every re-read. Daniel Warren Johnson always delivers a wallop with his comics, and yet, we're still surprised when he lands a new blow. In this episode, we drag DWJ into our ring. The conversation is full-spoilers. So, please, read Do A Powerbomb! in its entirety before venturing any further. We would feel absolutely awful if your experience was spoiled in any way by this discussion. Having once read the comic, we believe our chat with Daniel Warren Johnson will elevate your appreciation for the book. We dig into every aspect of the comic, and Dan is extremely generous with his time and consideration. We examine Do A Powerbomb! 's unique origins, tied to Johnson's late-in-life discovery of professional wrestling. We talk about how it initially seeped into his Beta Ray Bill mini-series for Marvel Comics and why he was compelled to smash it into this particular familial saga. And, yeah, we go deep into the comic's absolutely bonkers climax and just how the hell he came up with that epic final confrontation. Oh, and we get some cool future book-related news out of Dan as well. Stay tuned for that. Be sure to follow Daniel Warren Johnson on Twitter , Instagram , and his Website . Do A Powerbomb! is now available in comic shops from Image Comics . It will be available in bookstores everywhere on March 7th. Relevant Links to our Do A Powerbomb! Convo: Daniel Warren Johnson on CBCC, talkin' Beta Ray Bill The Best Comics of 2022 (Part Two) The CBCC Patreon Exclusive Do a Powerbomb! Extended Cut Interview Join us on March 12th at 4:00 PM at the Alamo Drafthouse in Winchester, Virginia for our Lone Wolf and Cub: Sword of Vengeance screening , co-sp
Fri, February 24, 2023
Creator Corner: Collin Kelly & Jackson Lanzing on Clayface
INT. CLAYFACE - DAY/NIGHT/WHATEVER. There are two wolves (desperation and artistic integrity) tearing into each other. The disgraced Basil Karlo will do anything to get his face (or someone else's face atop his face) on the screen again. Unfortunately, even after cheating and slaughtering his way to his goal, Karlo's damn creative principles threaten to ruin his bright lights, big city dreams. Batman : One Bad Day - Clayface #1 is a sensational trip into the murderous mudsliding thespian's soul. Told brilliantly and empathically by the writing duo Collin Kelly and Jackson Lanzing, the DC Comics one-shot offers an authentic and horrific insight into the creative pursuit. Considering our own history of artistic failure and success, Kelly and Lanzing tap into something deeply personal, delivering a dreadfully relatable Hollywood saga. Collin Kelly and Jackson Lanzing join us this week to discuss their passion for the shapeshifting monster and how they found themselves in Clayface's agonizing artistic integrity. Their One Bad Day slides perfectly alongside the rest of the DC Comics line exploring Batman's many rogues but also stands out as something brutally additive. Their Clayface is the one many of us first encountered in Batman : The Animated Series , but speaking to the moment, the right now. Batman : One Bad Day - Clayface #1 takes on power imbalance culture and the poison that infects the eager, and the desperate. We chat about their own La La Land experiences and whether they took this opportunity as a moment of exorcism. We also dive into Xermánico's insanely rich illustrations fueling the narrative, as well as those evocative colors provided by Romulo Fajardo Jr. How could you not, right? This comic is gorgeous. Continue this conversation with Collin Kelly by following his Twitter . Track down Jackson Lanzing via his Twitter and Instagram . Most importantly, seek out Batman : One Bad Day - Clayface #1, now available wherever fine comic books are sold . Don't forget! Check out the latest episode of The B&B Show , Brad's Picks the 10 Most Anticipated Movies of 2023, HERE . And, of course, follow Comic Book Couples Counseling on Facebook , on Instagram , and on Twitter @CBCCPodcast , and you can follow hos
Sat, February 18, 2023
Creator Corner: Joshua Williamson & Jamal Campbell on Superman
Nothing has a greater influence over your life than your thoughts; rather they are negative or positive. This is true for Superman, Lex Luthor, Brad Gullickson, Lisa Gullickson, Joshua Williamson, and Jamal Campbell. On this week's podcast, we chat with the two comic creators about Clark Kent's impact on their lives as well as his impact on the greater DC Comics universe. Their Superman #1 hits comic shops this Tuesday, and with it comes an exciting new take on the character and those that flock around him. Williamson and Campbell's narrative positions the Clark Kent/Lex Luthor relationship forward without side-stepping those other supporting roles we adore. The first issue actually opens with Pete Ross's influence on a young Clark and examines how that friendship lingers into Superman's adulthood. How these relations shape each other allows us to consider the power friends and strangers have on us, and beautifully, Williamson and Campbell were willing to go there with us. Our conversation also considers Superman's importance as a cultural icon, and we dig into the difficulty of steering such a symbol. We explore whether there is a romance between Lex Luthor and Clark Kent while teasing out some details as to where Joshua Williamson and Jamal Campbell are possibly pushing their caped crusader. Also, what kind of tunes does Pete Ross place on a mixtape for a young Clark Kent? Williamson has definite opinions. So do we. Keep up to date on all things Joshua Williamson by following him on Twitter , Instagram , and Substack . Follow Jamal Campbell through his Twitter , Instagram , and Website . Superman #1 from DC Comics arrives on 2/21. Other Relevant Links: Ant - Man and the Wasp : Quantumania CBCC Patreon Episode Superman : The Movie w/Shawn Eastridge Dan Jurgens on The Death of Superman Mark Waid, Nicole Maines, & Leah Williams on Lazarus Planet Don't forget! Check out the latest episode of The B&B Show , Brad's Picks the 1
Fri, February 10, 2023
Dan Slott on Silver Surfer & Dawn Greenwood: A CBCC Second Opinion
Hang on! Dan Slott joins Comic Book Couples Counseling for an epic, in-depth conversation about his Silver Surfer run, which he did in collaboration with Mike Allred and Laura Allred. No other comic has had as profound an impact on our relationship as this one, especially when you consider that Dawn Greenwood and Norrin Radd were the inspiration for the podcast. In many ways, we've spent our entire time on this show preparing for the deep-dive chat you're about to hear. In creator corner conversations, we usually do our best to avoid spoilers. However, this is an intensive exploration of the Slott/Allred Silver Surfer run. We encourage you to read the entire thing before venturing within as we start with the end and work our way backward. We promise you that Dan Slott has never discussed this series in this much detail or from this particular angle. Slott offers a second opinion on the Dawn & Norrin romance. We throw at him the lessons we learned throughout our five previous Silver Surfer episodes, and he reflects a few ideas and rejects some others. He walks us through his emotions while creating the series, and his dreams for what more he could have said if given a few extra issues. Yes, we discuss several deleted scenes. A new printing of the Silver Surfer omnibus from Marvel Comics arrives on March 7th. Make some space on your bookshelf, because you don't want to miss out on this one like you did the first one. Make sure to follow Dan Slott via Twitter and Instagram . Previous CBCC Silver Surfer Episodes: Episode 1 - A New Dawn Bonus Episode - Norrin, Dawn, & Groot Episode 2 - Worlds Apart Episode 3 - Last Days Episode 4 - A Power Greater Than Cosmic Other Relevant Links: Brad Talkin' The Last of Us on A Bite Of CBCC
Thu, February 02, 2023
CBCC 88: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles- The Last Ronin
We bring our Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles series to a close with the final Turtle story as envisioned thirty years ago by the original TMNT creators, Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird. In The Last Ronin , we find the last living Ninja Turtle marching into a Foot Clan-occupied New York City, determined to end the fight that consumed his family. He's beaten, bruised, and maybe a little deluded. After all, the spirits of his three dead brothers haunt his waking world. As discussed in our Martian Manhunter episode , grief builds a monument in our hearts. His brothers are gone, but their lives still influence the remaining turtle's path. For better and for worse. The Last Ronin exposes a darkness fueling the family's mission and allows us to discuss aspects of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles that our previous episodes denied. Helping us understand the TMNT familial dynamics is Dawn Huebner, Ph.D., and her book "The Sibling Survival Guide: Surefire Ways to Solve Conflicts, Reduce Rivalry, and Have More Fun with Your Brothers and Sisters, illustrated by Kara McHale. Comic issues covered in this episode: The Last Ronin 1 - 5, produced by IDW Publishing from October 2020 to April 2022. It's based on a story by Kevin Eastman, Peter Laird, and Tom Waltz, with scripts written by Kevin Eastman and Tom Waltz. The comic is illustrated by Esau Escorza, Isaac Escorza, Ben Bishop, and Kevin Eastman. Layouts by Kevin Eastman. Colors by Luis Antonio Delgado with color assists by Samuel Plata and Ronda Pattison. Letters and design by Shawn Lee. Previous CBCC TMNT Episodes: CBCC Interviews Kevin Eastman CBCC on TMNT: The Movie w/Bryan Young CBCC on TMNT: The Mirage Studios Years CBCC on TMNT: The Archie Years Other Relevant Links: 988 Suicide and Crisis Hotline Lone Wolf and Cub at the Alamo Drafthouse Howard the Duck Patreon Episode Chip Zdarsky Howard the Duck Intro <
Thu, January 19, 2023
Creator Corner: Mark Waid, Nicole Maines, & Leah Williams on Lazarus Planet
The latest DC Comics event is here - Lazarus Planet! Spearheaded by Mark Waid and Gene Luen Yang and carried forth by writers like Nicole Maines and Leah Williams, the crossover radically alters DC's science-based and magic-based heroes. Chaos rains, and chaos reigns. Heroes transformed. Secrets revealed. Powers unleashed. As seen in Batman vs . Robin #4, Lazarus Island has exploded. Dangerous, magical chemicals spread across the globe, catastrophically changing the atmosphere and the heroes who fight below it. The DC Comics Universe will never be the same again. And you will absolutely become a fan of Monkey Prince, Dreamer, and Power Girl if you're not already. On this week's episode, we're extremely excited (and we do mean extremely) to have Mark Waid back on the show, this time talking about our favorite father/son caped crusaders, Bruce Wayne and Damian Wayne. We break down where various DC characters fall on the magic/science spectrum and where Mark Waid falls too. We're also thrilled to have Nicole Maines and Leah Williams on the podcast, discussing their contributions to the Lazarus Planet : Assualt on Krypton one-shot. The book establishes a new world order for their characters, Dreamer and Power Girl. Folks who will become increasingly essential in the wake of the Lazarus Island eruption. Maines and Williams also consider their relationship with science and magic and how it informs their roles as creators. Maines obviously has a unique bond with Dreamer, having performed as her on the CW's Supergirl . We chat about that responsibility and why it's important for her to be the character's caretaker in the comics. Lazarus Planet : Assault on Krypton is Leah Williams' introduction to DC Comics work. She's positively giddy about pushing Power Girl through the wringer in the upcoming issues of Action Comics , and she assures us that the Kryptonian's journey begins right here with the Lazarus Island fallout. The changes experienced in the one-shot forever mutate our understanding of Power Girl; she's not just a fringe universe Supergirl. Both Lazarus Planet : Alpha and Lazarus Planet : Assault on Krypton are currently available wherever fine comics are sold . Make sure to follow Mark Waid on Twitter and through his Website . Follow Nicole Maines on Twitter and Instagram . And follow Leah Williams on Twitter and Instagram . Listen to our previous Mark Waid conversation <a href='https://www.comicbookcouplescounseling.com/podcast/epi
Sun, January 15, 2023
Creator Corner: Kelly Thompson and Meredith McClaren on Black Cloak
We like big worlds, and we cannot lie. We like them, even more, when they come packed in extra thick premiere issues. Black Cloak #1 from creators Kelly Thompson and Meredith McClaren is the first event comic of 2023. It presents a massive, fantastical world jammed with magic, mystery, and mermaids. One part procedural, one part political intrigue, all parts pointedly compelling and weird as hell. After devouring the first three issues, we came away from Black Cloak wickedly captivated and brimming with curiosity. And yes, we had plenty of questions too. Thankfully, Kelly Thompson and Meredith McClaren agreed to come on the show and break them down with us. In this week's episode, we chat with Thompson and McClaren about the bottled anxiety they've created in their powder keg city, Kiros. We discuss why they structured the book the way they did, why McClaren is as in the dark about the city's future as we are, and why confusion is a mighty weapon in winning over your audience. Also, we consider whether or not Black Cloak 's comparisons to Saga are fair or accurate. Relevant Links to this Week's Discussion: Watch The B & B Show via PGCTV Listen to our previous Rogue & Gambit episode Listen to our previous Mr. & Mrs. X episode Black Cloak #1 is currently available from Image Comics . Keep up to date with everything going on in Kiros via Kelly Thompson's Substack . Follow Kely Thompson via Twitter and Instagram . Follow Meredith McClaren on Twitter , Instagram , and Tumblr . Don't forget! We're screening Howard the Duck on the big screen at the Alamo Drafthouse in Winchester, Virginia. Done in collaboration with the Four Color Fantasies comic book shop. Get your tickets HERE . And, of course, follow Comic Book Couples Counseling on Facebook , on Instagram , and on Twitter @CB
Tue, January 10, 2023
Creator Corner: Alex Segura on Blood Oath and The Black Ghost
We can't quit vampires. Just when you think you've seen every mythological iteration, a creator comes along with a new take on the bloodsuckers. Blood Oath by Alex Segura, Rob Hart, and Joe Eisma arrived before our eyeballs at the perfect moment. The vicious vampire twist that plops our favorite fanged beasts amongst the gangs puppeteering the Prohibition era was the most delightful way for Lisa to extend her current undead obsession, ignited mostly by her recent Twilight re-read. She will not accept any comments on that sparkly infatuation at this time, although we do get into it during this week's opening banter. The ComiXology original Blood Oath joyfully adds a new element to the seemingly tired monster mash concept. We chat with Alex Segura about what he hoped to accomplish with his take on the creatures. We also discuss why our culture, and most other cultures, can't shake these particular monsters either. Also, how do you like your damnation? With or without God involved? Of course, Segura is an incredibly busy writer these days, and 2022 proved to be a stupendously successful year for him as well. In addition to Blood Oath , we talk about his vigilante/journalism thriller The Black Ghost and his award-winning new novel, Secret Identity . Look no further if your hustle needs some inspiration. Blood Oath and The Black Ghost are available from ComiXology , and The Black Ghost 's first two trade paperbacks are available from Dark Horse Comics . Keep track of all those mighty fine Alex Segura stories via his Twitter , Instagram , and Website . Don't forget! We're screening Howard the Duck on the big screen at the Alamo Drafthouse in Winchester, Virginia. Done in collaboration with the Four Color Fantasies comic book shop. Get your tickets HERE . And, of course, follow Comic Book Couples Counseling on Facebook , on Instagram , and on Twitter @CBCCPodcast , and you can follow hosts Brad Gullickson @MouthDork & Lisa Gullickson @sidewalksiren . Send us your Words
Fri, January 06, 2023
The Best Comics of 2022 (Part Two)
Determining the Best Comics of 2022 requires more space than the usual Comic Book Couples Counseling conversation. More space and several more voices! In Part Two of our epic year-end celebration, we invite another cool cadre of guests on the show to name their favorite books from the previous year. Several titles you may expect, but a whole bunch of others should come as a surprise. We're not NPR, we're not IGN. We're the CBCC Podcast! If you missed last week's selection of great books, click HERE to catch up . With those goodies firmly locked in your brain, let's move to the biggest categories featuring the year's biggest winners. Somewhere below, you'll find the real-deal Best Comic of 2022. Any guesses? You're probably right. Part Two Timestamps: Writer of the Year - 12:24 Artist of the Year - 21:58 Best Superhero Comic - 29:51 Scariest Comic - 44:47 Best Digital Release - 53:31 Best Ongoing Series - 1:01:22 Best Original Graphic Novel - 1:12:06 Best Limited Series - 1:23:19 Celebrity Guest Stars: Dallas ( @dallas_comics ), Anne ( @AnneComics ), and Lexi ( @lexilou_comics ) from The Comics Collective Jessika ( @jessikawitha ) and Mike ( @vansau ) from Ten Cent Takes Dan Gvozden ( @SupSpiderTalk ) from Amazing Spider-Talk Guido ( GuiAlexSan ) and Rob ( @robertribar ) from Dear Watchers Vactor ( @Vactor ) from Comic Book Kaiju Adam Reck ( @arthurstacy ) from Battle of the Atom and ComicsXF David Brooke ( @nosocialize ) from AIPT Kat Calamia ( @ComicUno ) from Comic Uno Aaron ( @betteractions ) and Chris ( @chacker41 ) from <a href='https://www.oblivio
Sat, December 31, 2022
The Best Comics of 2022 (Part One)
HAP...PY NEW YEAR! We close out December doing what we love most: rambling about comic books! And this year, we're joined by a bevy of guests who help us recognize the Best Comics of 2022. We've scurried and scrambled during the last several weeks, racing to read and re-read as many comic books as possible. 2022 was a banner year for the industry, certainly in terms of quality. Narrowing our two-part end-of-the-year extravaganza down to a few handfuls of books proved nearly impossible. Thankfully, our celebrity callers, springing from the best podcasts and websites, were eager to jump in and champion the comics we missed out on. In Part One of our Best Comics of 2022 episode, we finally decided on a moniker for our Comic Book Couples Counseling awards. We won't spoil it here, but we hope you're as happy with it as we are. We kick off the festivities commemorating the year's best cat comic before diving into some brilliant nonfiction work, then some single-issue celebration, and finally closing out our show with the best All-Ages and Young Adult graphic novels. Part One Category Timestamps: Best Cat Comic - 8:07 Best Memoir - 17:10 Best First Issue - 27:03 Best Single Issue - 36:12 Best All-Ages Comic - 44:41 Best Young Adult Comic - 56:34 Celebrity Guest Stars: Nathan Simmons ( @whatastorynate ) from AIPT Badr Milligan ( @TheShortBoxJax ) from The Short Box: A Comic Talk Show Chris and Lance ( @CBKast ) from The Comic Book Keepers Zack Quaintance ( @ComicsBookcase ) from The Beat Christian Holub ( @cmholub ) from Entertainment Weekly Jamie Garner ( @jamiegeeksout ) from For Everyone Media Remember, this episode is only Part One of our Best Comics of 2022. Return next for Part Two, featuring an even weirder and wilder collection of comics. Plus, more celebrity appearances! Don't forget! We're screening Howard the Duck on the big screen at the Alamo Drafthouse in Winchester, Virginia. Done in collaboration with the Four Color Fantasies comic book shop. Get your tickets HERE . And, of course, follow Comic Book Coupl
Sat, December 24, 2022
Creator Corner: Alisa Kwitney on G.I.L.T.
Close your eyes. Picture the longest strand of regret dangling in your memory. Want to clip it? What would your life be like if you could go back in time and fix that one annoying problem? In G.I.L.T. (the Guild of Independent Lady Temporalists), writer Alisa Kwitney proposes the possibility for at least one woman to repair her calamitous history and, in the process, drop an unwitting sidekick into the tricky solution as well. The acerbic science fiction adventure from Ahoy Comics is one of the most delightful books of the year. G.I.L.T. triggers passionate conversation between us, and we were honored to have Kwitney on the show to break down our feelings regarding her characters and our own wobbly past. As always, we get vulnerable. Just in time for New Year's! Done in collaboration with the artist Mauricet, G.I.L.T. challenges societal notions of shame, guilt, and happily ever after. Kwitney tells us how her heroines, Hildy and Trista, allowed her to look backward and inward. The sci-fi engine operates as a cathartic excavation, offering relief to her and a willing reader. Do we also talk The Sandman ? Well, we couldn't have a former Sandman assistant editor on the show and not dish a little about our pal Morpheus. Make sure you stick to the end for that giddy bit of FMK. Most importantly, seek out G.I.L.T. from Ahoy Comics , available wherever the finest graphic novels are sold. Follow Alisa Kwitney via her Twitter and Website . Don't forget! We're screening Howard the Duck on the big screen at the Alamo Drafthouse in Winchester, Virginia. Done in collaboration with the Four Color Fantasies comic book shop. Get your tickets HERE . And, of course, follow Comic Book Couples Counseling on Facebook , on Instagram , and on Twitter @CBCCPodcast , and you can follow hosts Brad Gullickson @MouthDork & Lisa Gullickson @sidewalksiren . Send us your Words of Affirmation by leaving us a 5-Star Review on Apple Podcasts . SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY JOINING OUR PATREON COMMUNITY . Continue your conversation with CBCC by hopping over to our websi
Mon, December 12, 2022
Creator Corner: Chris Condon & Jacob Phillips on That Texas Blood
'Twas the week before Christmas when all through the house, not a creature was stirring - EXCEPT Two-Gun Khamen, the rootinest, tootinest cowboy mummy this side of the Pecos. This week, we're dipping into young Billy Coates' wild imagination as he regales his folks with a rip-roaring adventure saga, which serves as the backbone for That Texas Blood #20, the second twisted Christmas Special from comic creators Chris Condon and Jacob Phillips. Billy's strange tale is a most excellent jumping-on point for new readers but also operates as a sweet epilogue for those who survived That Texas Blood 's most recent arc involving the nightmarish Red Queen Killer (RQK). Within the holiday one-shot, we see what Sheriff Joe Bob Coates is fighting for month after month, terror after terror. There's something wicked flowing through Ambrose County, and he's the last line of defense. We're stoked to have Chris Condon and Jacob Phillips on the show this week, psyching us up for the Christmas season while also spilling the hot goss from our favorite Texas county. We begin our conversation with the function of Christmas Specials and how this latest one fits neatly as a climax to the RQK narrative. We consider That Texas Blood 's future as well as its past, the evolution of Joe Bob Coates, and the mythological power that its titular state holds on all of us. That Texas Blood remains one of our most obsessive reads. Whenever the latest issue drops, we have to fight each other over who gets to consume it first. Condon and Phillips have crafted an addictive thriller stuffed with numerous compelling relationships that get our blood pumping something hot. You can continue this chat with the That Texas Blood creators by following Chris Condon on Twitter and Instagram , and following Jacob Phillips on Twitter and Instagram . That Texas Blood #20 is now available from Image Comics , as are the first two trade paperbacks. The third storyline, involving the RQK, is currently available as single issues, and the trade will release on 1/24/23. Other Relevant Links: Our Previous Chris Condon Conversation Our TMNT: Archie Era Episode Don't forget! We're screening Howard the Duck on the big screen at the Alamo Drafthouse in Winchester, Virginia. Done in collaboration with the Four Color Fantasies comic book shop. Get <a href='https://
Mon, December 05, 2022
CBCC 87: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles - Archie Comics
When the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles cartoon erupted in popularity, Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird required a comic book that kids could flock toward, which could not be their original hyper-violent Mirage Studios series. In 1988, they partnered with the industry's most wholesome brand, Archie Comics, launching Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Adventures . The second TMNT comic series began with strict adaptations of the cartoon but quickly swerved down far weirder avenues. Under the guidance of Ryan Brown and Stephen Murphy (aka Dean Clarrain), Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Adventures tackled prescient environmental issues while testing the boundaries of what's acceptable as "all-ages" entertainment. In this week's episode, we jump into the far future, where the four brothers are no longer teenagers but Cyber Samurai Ninja Turtles! The Shredder poses no threat. Instead, the brothers must face off against Verminator-X, Craniac, and the disembodied brain of history's most wretched dictator. The "Dreamland" storyline in Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Adventures reveals a family unit operating at peak form, but when danger reaches a crescendo, two brothers will be tested. Our heroes have aged, but they still fall into the same roles we've come to expect. The question becomes, are we forever shackled to the sibling roles we took on as children? Can our relationships with others break us free from deep-seated family tension? Helping us understand the TMNT familial dynamics is Dawn Huebner, Ph.D., and her book "The Sibling Survival Guide: Surefire Ways to Solve Conflicts, Reduce Rivalry, and Have More Fun with Your Brothers and Sisters, illustrated by Kara McHale. Comic issues covered in this episode: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Adventures issues 62 - 66, published by Archie Comics between November 1994 and March 1995. These comics were written by Stephen Murphy and Chris Allan, penciled by Chris Allan and Gray Morrow, inked by Brian Thomas and Jon D’agostino, colored by Barry Grossman, and lettered by Gary Fields. Relevant Links: CBCC Interviews Kevin Eastman CBCC on TMNT: The Movie w/Bryan Young CBCC on TMNT: The Mirage Studios Years We Wish You A Turtle Christmas Don't forget! We're screening Howard the Duck on the big screen at the Alamo Drafthouse in Winchester, Virginia. Done in collaboration with the Four Color Fantasies comic book shop.
Thu, November 24, 2022
Creator Corner: Alex Ross on Fantastic Four: Full Circle
We've waited a long time for this one, but maybe not as long as our guest spent percolating on his subject. Alex Ross exhausted years thinking and rethinking the Fantastic Four. He desired a graphic reinterpretation of the characters that launched the Marvel Comics universe. A new coat of paint that would highlight what was so incredible about the sixties space race characters without tethering them to basic nostalgia. Fantastic Four : Full Circle spins directly from Jack Kirby and Stan Lee's iconic run, picking up story threads long dismissed by everyone except Alex Ross. The story resurrects a few old villains, plunging the team into the Negative Zone. The story works as a celebration and a blueprint for other creators to follow if they choose. We're ecstatic to have Ross on the podcast this week, digging into why he was compelled to shepherd Full Circle into reality. Blissfully, this conversation also works as a second opinion to our own CBCC sessions on Reed and Sue from last year. Like us, Ross has strong opinions about their romance and how they should interact as a couple. He's the biggest Fantastic Four fan of them all. Kevin Feige, do you have your copy yet? Fantastic Four : Full Circle is the first treasury-sized book in the new MarvelArts line, a unique collaboration between Marvel Comics and Abrams ComicArts. Find it wherever rad comics are sold, or just click HERE . You can find Alex Ross on his Website , Twitter , and Instagram . Other Relevant Links: Our 60th Anniversary Fantastic Four Celebration Our Reed & Sue Counseling Session One Our Reed & Sue Counseling Session Two Our Reed & Sue Counseling Session Three Our Reed & Sue Counseling Session Four The Brad and Bryan Movie Review Show Don't forget! We're screening Howard the Duck on the big screen at the Alamo Drafthouse in Winchester, Virginia. Done in collaboration with the <a href='https://www.facebook.com/F
Thu, November 24, 2022
Creator Corner: Alex Ross on Fantastic Four: Full Circle
We've waited a long time for this one, but maybe not as long as our guest spent percolating on his subject. Alex Ross exhausted years thinking and rethinking the Fantastic Four. He desired a graphic reinterpretation of the characters that launched the Marvel Comics universe. A new coat of paint that would highlight what was so incredible about the sixties space race characters without tethering them to basic nostalgia. Fantastic Four : Full Circle spins directly from Jack Kirby and Stan Lee's iconic run, picking up story threads long dismissed by everyone except Alex Ross. The story resurrects a few old villains, plunging the team into the Negative Zone. The story works as a celebration and a blueprint for other creators to follow if they choose. We're ecstatic to have Ross on the podcast this week, digging into why he was compelled to shepherd Full Circle into reality. Blissfully, this conversation also works as a second opinion to our own CBCC sessions on Reed and Sue from last year. Like us, Ross has strong opinions about their romance and how they should interact as a couple. He's the biggest Fantastic Four fan of them all. Kevin Feige, do you have your copy yet? Fantastic Four : Full Circle is the first treasury-sized book in the new MarvelArts line, a unique collaboration between Marvel Comics and Abrams ComicArts. Find it wherever rad comics are sold, or just click HERE . You can find Alex Ross on his Website , Twitter , and Instagram . Other Relevant Links: Our 60th Anniversary Fantastic Four Celebration Our Reed & Sue Counseling Session One Our Reed & Sue Counseling Session Two Our Reed & Sue Counseling Session Three Our Reed & Sue Counseling Session Four The Brad and Bryan Movie Review Show Don't forget! We're screening Howard the Duck on the big screen at the Alamo Drafthouse in Winchester, Virginia. Done in collaboration with the <a href='https://www.facebook.com/FC
Thu, November 17, 2022
Creator Corner: Luke Lieberman, Ryan Silbert, & Bill Sienkiewicz
Stan Lee's 100th birthday is next month, and we're getting a jump on the celebrations. Joining us on the show this week are comic creators Luke Lieberman, Ryan Silbert, and Bill Sienkiewicz, discussing their collaboration on Alliances : Orphans . The new graphic novel from Dynamite Entertainment springs from Lee's imagination and is further shaped into reality by Lieberman and Silbert. The comic is a cosmic adventure following the Orphans, a ragtag band of desperados who found each other after the alien Hive eradicated their families. After rescuing an earthling named William Ackerson, they discover an equally bizarre and unique stowaway. Together, these heroes challenge the universe and, in the process, save it from blinking out of existence. Alliances : Orphans recalls the grand ideas and characters that shaped the Marvel Universe while never falling into poisonous nostalgia. Lieberman, Silbert, and Sienkiewicz (with additional artist Szymon Kudranski) are extremely aware of the legacy they're shepherding. They want to live up to Stan Lee's mythology, and part of that is knowing when not to be precious. They'll kill an idea as quickly as they come up with it. They learned from the best. We begin our conversation with these artists by celebrating Stan Lee. From there, we dig into their collaboration's early days and how Alliances : Orphans is unlike any other project they've worked on. We get philosophical; we get vulnerable. It's a proper Comic Book Couples Counseling session. Alliances : Orphans is currently available from Dynamite Entertainment . You can find Luke Lieberman on Twitter and Instagram . You can find Ryan Silbert on Twitter , Instagram , and the Origin Story Website . You can find Bill Sienkiewicz on Twitter , Instagram , and his Website . Don't forget! We're screening Howard the Duck on the big screen at the Alamo Drafthouse in Winchester, Virginia. Done in collaboration with the Four Color Fantasies comic book shop. Get your tickets HERE . And, of course, follow Comic Book Couples Counseling on Facebook , on
Wed, November 09, 2022
Creator Corner: Dan Jurgens on The Death of Superman
Thirty years ago, Superman died. Then, he came back. We remember the event as a gimmick done to boost sales. Sure. Okay. However, the storyline had a massive impact on the readership, including our young Brad. Today, DC Comics recalls the fictional catastrophe in The Death of Superman 30th Anniversary Special , exploring the lingering trauma of Kal-El's death. We chat with Dan Jurgens, the original Death of Superman co-architect, about what it was like to kill the Man of Steel, resurrect him, and revisit the narrative thirty years later through the eyes of Superman's son, Jon Kent. In his story, "The Life of Superman," Jurgens reveals how Superman's demise at the hands of Doomsday continues to affect Metropolis as well as Kal-El and his family. Jurgens recalls his earliest Superman memories, the George Reeves television icon of his youth. He considers the character's impact on the culture and the stress and joy it was to challenge such an image in 1992. We worm our way through his emotional experience, contemplating those long-ago feelings ignited while steering the splash page apocalypse that was Superman #75 (Volume 2). We work out our own fee-fees regarding the eradication of the Man of Tomorrow. The Death of Superman 30th Anniversary Special is now available wherever fine comic books are sold. Along with Dan Jurgens, the book features the work of Brett Breeding, Roger Stern, Butch Guice, Louise Simonson, Jon Bogdanove, Jerry Ordway, Tom Grummett, Glenn Whitmore, Doug Hazelwood, and more. It's a who's who of the Superman offices; and an incredibly thoughtful reflection on the nineties event to end all nineties events. Be sure to follow Dan Jurgens on Twitter and Instagram , and keep up to date on his work through his website . Other Relevant Links: Our previous Superman : The Movie episode '92 news segment featuring Don Allen and the Death of Superman Headline News segment on the Death of Superman Our Mirage Studios TMNT episode And, of course, follow Comic Book Couples Counseling on Facebook , on Instagram , and on Twitter <
Wed, November 02, 2022
CBCC 86: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles -Mirage Studios
Nearly forty years ago, the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles sprung from the Jack Kirby and Frank Miller-obsessed brains of Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird. Pop culture was forever altered. For the better. In this week's episode, we continue to explore the sibling dynamics between the four mutant brothers: Donatello, Leonardo, Michelangelo, and Raphael. This time, however, we go back to the beginning, flipping through the pages of the first seven Mirage Studios issues. What we find within feels familiar and unfamiliar simultaneously. It's an emotionally rich and turbulent saga, an immigrant story involving revenge, mad scientists, and aliens. Not a single slice of pizza is present. Helping us understand the TMNT familial relationships is Dawn Huebner, Ph.D., and her book "The Sibling Survival Guide: Surefire Ways to Solve Conflicts, Reduce Rivalry, and Have More Fun with Your Brothers and Sisters, illustrated by Kara McHale. Before we dig into this thick turtle soup, we must celebrate this year's Baltimore Comic-Con, our last convention of the season. We discuss the friends we caught up with, the past guests we finally met in person, the artists we stood in line for, and the comics we purchased. Every con has its unique vibe, and there is no other place on Earth like Baltimore Comic-Con. The two-dollar bins alone should entice your curiosity. Relevant Links: CBCC on TMNT : The Movie w/Bryan Young CBCC Interviews Kevin Eastman Comic issues covered in this episode: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 1 - 7 and the Raphael one-shot. All were written, illustrated, and toned by Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird. Issues 1 - 4 were lettered by Eastman and Laird, issues 5 - 7 were lettered by Steve Lavigne. The comics were originally published by Mirage Studios between May 1984 and March 1986. Be sure to follow Comic Book Couples Counseling on Facebook , on Instagram , and on Twitter @CBCCPodcast , and you can follow hosts Brad Gullickson @MouthDork & Lisa Gullickson @sidewalksiren . Send us your Words of Affirmation by leaving us a 5-Star Review on Apple Podcasts . SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY JOINING OUR PATREON COM
Sat, October 22, 2022
Creator Corner: Todd McFarlane & Greg Capullo on Batman/Spawn
There are event comics, and then there are EVENT comics. This December, Todd McFarlane and Greg Capullo reunite for the new Batman / Spawn crossover, a comic book clash two decades in the making. It's a rematch many thought would never occur, but its possibility put every reader on notice. No one wants to miss out on this back alley rumble. Equally as legendary as the icons squaring off against each other are the creators themselves. McFarlane and Capullo's partnership solidified during Spawn 's early years, and since then, it's developed into a sincere and loving friendship. Whether they were making comics together or not, they were never too far apart, and now that they're back on a book, we will benefit from their brotherhood. The Batman / Spawn pages radiate the profound creative joy of their makers. McFarlane and Capullo join us this week to discuss their return to the Batman and Spawn universes and the resulting reality-smashing brawl. We chat about how this book fits or doesn't fit into the original nineties Batman / Spawn battle. We dig into the energy created by comparing and contrasting the two characters and why McFarlane and Capullo are busting their butts to get this book done. Most importantly, we are Comic Book Couples Counseling , the two creators contemplate how their reunion rejuvenates their artistic drive and what they hope to pull from the experience. Batman / Spawn 's FOC (final order cutoff) is 10/23 and will ultimately release on 12/13. The trade paperback release of Batman / Spawn: The Classic Collection will hit shelves and digital on 11/15. Find more details about the publications via DC Comics . Stay in touch with Todd McFarlane through his Twitter , Instagram , and Website . Follow Greg Capullo via his Twitter , Instagram , and Website . And, of course, follow Comic Book Couples Counseling on Facebook , on Instagram , and on Twitter @CBCCPodcast , and you can follow hosts Brad Gullickson @MouthDork & Lisa Gullickson @sidewalksiren . Send us your Words of Affirmation by leaving us a 5-Star Review on Apple Podca
Fri, October 14, 2022
Comic Book Couples Conning: New York Comic-Con w/Matt Lesniewski
We've attended many comic conventions, but none quite like the New York Comic-Con. In this week's episode, we plunge into our #NYCC experience, detailing how this convention differentiates from other shows like San Diego and Baltimore. We run you through the show floor, the many eating options, the glorious cosplay, and the never-ending artist's alley. Returning CBCC guest Matt Lesniewski also joins us for an in-depth discussion about his new comic book, Faceless and the Family . As he tells us, he's never thrown himself into a work as hard as he has with Faceless , and this passion is awesomely apparent on the page. No one is making comics like Matt Lesniewski. Faceless and the Family is a rare gem, a comic written, drawn, and hand-lettered by Lesniewski. It focuses on a group of "strange and loveable" misfits wandering the Hand Planet, an apocalyptic sci-fi landscape that demands your eyes upon it. The book is currently running a campaign on Zoop and already blowing past its initial financial objective. Now, we're rooting for those stretch goals. Our conversation with Lesniewski travels into some heartfelt and unguarded spaces. As longtime Lesniewski readers, we throw heaps of praise upon the artist while digging into his process and varied narrative themes. We get a little vulnerable. He gets a little vulnerable. It's the kind of chat that can only be had on Comic Book Couples Counseling . Be sure to follow Matt Lesniewski on Twitter and Instagram . Most importantly, however, jump over to Zoop and explore the Faceless and the Family campaign . Also, if you haven't already, check out our previous conversation with Lesniewski about his Dark Horse Comics series, Static . Other Relevant Links: Dear Watchers ' Post-NYCC Con Report CBCC on TMNT : The Movie w/Bryan Young And, of course, follow Comic Book Couples Counseling on Facebook , on Instagram , and on Twitter @CBCCPodcast , and you can follow hosts Brad Gullickson @MouthDork & Lisa Gullickson @sidewalksiren . Send us your Words of Affirmation by le
Tue, October 04, 2022
A Werewolf by Night Special Presentation: Michael Giacchino & Andy Park
We promised on the last episode that we would return from the Fantastic Fest film festival with some seriously cool filmmaker conversations, but we had no idea we would come back with these two rad discussions. We're thrilled to have Michael Giacchino and Andy Park on the show this week, chatting about their Marvel Studios experiences and how they're transforming their childhood comic book obsessions into a live-action reality. These two geeks have done so much good for their nerd community. Up first, we chat with director/composer Michael Giacchino about Werewolf by Night , the first-ever Marvel Studios "Special Presentation," set to air on Disney+ this Friday (10/7). We were lucky enough to catch the Werewolf by Night Fantastic Fest Secret Screening, and we're delighted to report that the film is spooktacular. While it feels and looks unlike any other entry in the franchise, Werewolf by Night contributes tremendously to the ever-expanding Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Giacchino tells us about his earliest experiences with the Werewolf by Night comic books and how his passion for them extends from his passion for Universal monster and Hammer horror movies. These influences are readily apparent in his adaptation, shot lovingly in black and white, and performed by incredible actors (Gael García Bernal, Laura Donnelly) who are locked into a similar, nostalgic spirit. In the episode's second half, we speak with Andy Park, Marvel Studios' Director of Visual Development. Our first encounter with the MCU's live-action characters frequently occurs through his artwork. Neither of us will forget the first time we saw Park's concept art for Captain Marvel projected in Hall H, and we're still reeling from how his Thunderbolts piece roared through the D23 Hall in Anaheim. Park discusses the challenges of adaptation, knowing when to deviate from comic book designs and when to adhere to them strictly. As a massive fan of these characters and as a comic book artist himself, Park strives to replicate the look and tone of these iconic costumes. This passion is most notable when explaining why the Scarlet Witch had to have a proper, physical crown, not a CGI halo. If Marvel was gonna go full Witch, they had to go full witch, right? Be sure to follow Andy Park on Twitter , Instagram , and his Website . Let Michael Giacchino know how much you love Werewolf by Night this weekend via his Twitter , Instagram , and Website . Don't forget to purchase exclusive Comic Book Couples Counseling t-shirts on @elliotcomicart 's <a href='https://www.teepublic.co
Tue, September 20, 2022
CBCC 85: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles - The 1990 Movie
"You were expecting maybe the Addams Family?" After years of covering romantic love on the podcast, we're shifting gears by exploring sibling love, and we're doing that through the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Donatello, Leonardo, Michaelangelo, and Raphael - the four brothers raised by their Master Splinter in the art of invisibility. Insert the obligatory, "Cowabunga!" Our new four-part (maybe five-part, stay tuned) series begins with the 1990 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles movie directed by Steve Barron, written by Todd W. Langen and Bobby Herbeck, and starring Judith Hoag, Elias Koteas, and a whole heap of actors, performers, and puppeteers as the brothers. When discussing the best comic book movies, the 1990 T eenage Mutant Ninja Turtles film must be in the conversation. However, why are we starting with the first cinematic adaptation rather than the original Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird comic books? The answer is simple. Our love affair with the Turtles began with the film, and it led us to the comics, which will be the subject of our next episode in our TMNT series. Our love expert guiding our conversation with the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles will be Dawn Huebner, PHD and her book "The Sibling Survival Guide: Surefire Ways to Solve Conflicts, Reduce Rivalry, and Have More Fun with your Brothers and Sisters." Also joining us in this week's episode is our friend and TMNT obsessive, Bryan Young, aka "The Turtle Dork." Bryan has spent a lifetime contemplating the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and they've had a profound impact on his person. We discuss how his relationship with these characters has evolved and what lessons they still have to teach him today. When you're done with this episode, please follow Bryan Young's adventures on his Instagram , Twitter , Facebook Page , and Website . Two years ago, Kevin Eastman briefly joined the podcast for a quick conversation about the Turtles. So, technically, our TMNT Counseling Sessions began there. Click HERE to listen to that classic episode. And, of course, follow Comic Book Couples Counseling on Facebook , on Instagram , and on Twitter @CBCCPodcast , and you can follow hosts Brad Gullickson @MouthDork & Lisa Gullickson @sidewalksiren . Send us your Words of
Tue, September 13, 2022
Creator Corner: Mathew Klickstein on See You in San Diego
Geek culture? Nope. Just culture. The evidence is all around you. In this week's episode, we're joined by author Mathew Klickstein talking about his new book, See You in San Diego : An Oral History of Comic-Con , Fandom , and the Triumph of Geek Culture . Klickstein's massive tome is a beast of a feast, and one not only San Diego Comic-Con obsessives will enjoy. Inside, you'll find numerous wild characters. Yes, folks like Neil Gaiman, Kevin Smith, and Scott Aukermanare present, but wait until you meet cats like Mike Towry, Bjo Trimble, and Scott Shaw! Hovering over (or haunting) everything are titanic figures like Jack Kirby and Shel Dorf. See You in San Diego is an incredible time capsule exploring the nature of fandom and how it created a mighty need for conventions like the one held in San Diego. See You in San Diego began its life as a podcast series co-produced and directed by Mathew Klickstein. We highly recommend giving his Comic - Con Begins a listen ( you can find it HERE ). In the podcast, you can hear these interviews come to life, and it works as a wonderful companion piece to the book, which tremendously expands on the audio format by providing endless photos and art pieces. Scott Shaw!'s XXX Jack Kirby homage must be seen, unless you're easily scandalized. You've been warned. Keep track of Mathew Klickstein through his Website , and See You In Sand Diego is now available from Fantagraphics . And, of course, you too can follow Comic Book Couples Counseling on Facebook , on Instagram , and on Twitter @CBCCPodcast , and you can follow hosts Brad Gullickson @MouthDork & Lisa Gullickson @sidewalksiren . Send us your Words of Affirmation by leaving us a 5-Star Review on Apple Podcasts . SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY JOINING OUR PATREON COMMUNITY . Continue your conversation with CBCC by hopping over to our website where we have reviews, essays, and numerous interviews with comic book creators. Podcast logo by Aaron Prescott @ac
Tue, September 06, 2022
Creator Corner: Brian Michael Bendis & André Lima Araújo on Phenomena: The Golden City of Eyes
Episode 150! "Not an apocalypse...something far more interesting." André Lima Araújo and Brian Michael Bendis celebrate our 150th episode by providing an immensely eclectic conversation discussing their new all-ages sci-fi adventure saga, Phenomena : The Golden City of Eyes . These two creators are two great tastes that taste great together despite their frequently contradictory points of view. As you'll hear, Araújo and Bendis see the world quite differently, but their opposing sensibilities unleash something utterly unique through the collaborative process. Phenomena : The Golden City of Eyes is the first part of a trilogy published by Abrams ComicArts. It's a rollicking adventure set in a future where our world has...changed. Three wanderers (Bolden, Spike, and Matilde) stumble into each other and reluctantly form a bond while attempting to unravel the mystery of the titular city. Bendis provides a bubbly, naturalistic voice to Araújo's stark yet hyper-realized illustration. You've probably experienced numerous comics from both parties, but we promise you've never seen anything from either of them like Phenomena . The comic is a heap of contradictions: joyous yet harrowing, fluffy but deadly serious. At the center, Araújo and Bendis suggest an urgent reckoning with storytelling, an art form we too often take for granted. Phenomena : The Golden City of Eyes hits book shelves everywhere on 9/13 . All you have to do is turn the cover. Panel one will ensnare your attention. Keep up to date on all things Brian Michael Bendis by subscribing to his Substack . You can also track him down via Twitter , Instagram , and his Website . Follow André Lima Araújo through his Website , Twitter , and Instagram . 150 episodes. After completing our first pod, we could not have imagined that this latest one would feature André Lima Araújo and Brian Michael Bendis. Ultimate Spider - Man is an essential comic in our relationship, and in many ways, this podcast would not exist without it. Crazy. It's hard to express our gratitude to you, the listener. You've been with us for three years now. You've kept the podcast going, and the podcast has kept us going. Thank you. And, of course, you too can follow Comic Book Couples Counseling on Faceboo
Sun, August 28, 2022
CBCC 84: Angela & Sera - Queen of Hel
We conclude our Angela & Sera sessions by journeying into the FUNderworld! After two tumultuous mini-series, our Hevenly warriors finally get to spend some time together...jumping through Hela's hoops and the various trials of Hel. If these two lovers must have a climax, Angela : Queen of Hel is the best one for them. The seven-issue storyline subverts expectations and challenges the two Marvelous bounty hunters in ways unimagined after their last two quests together: Angela : Asgard ' s Assassin and 1602 : Witch Hunter Angela . We know they belong together, but do they know they belong together? Yes. No. It's complicated. Every relationship requires each partner to choose the other continually. It's a hard lesson but easily achievable if you follow Angela & Sera's path. Helping us navigate Hel's complicated hold on our romantic heroes is Robin Roberts' Brighter by the Day : Waking Up to New Hopes and Dreams . The Good Morning America host and Women's Basketball Hall of Fame inductee examines her history, filled with regrets and joys, and considers how those piercing moments shaped her present, giving her hope for the future. Relevant Links: Angela & Sera Session 1: Asgard's Assassin Angela & Sera Session 2: 1602 - Witch Hunter Angela Loki & Loki Session: Journey Into Mystery Our Free Sandan Patreon Preview Brad's Interview with The RZA Issues covered in this episode: Angela : Queen of Hel 1 - 7, written by Marguerite Bennett, art by Kim Jacinto, Israel Silva, and Stephanie Hans, and letters by VC's Clayton Cowls. And, of course, follow Comic Book Couples Counseling on Facebook , on Instagram , and on Twitter @CBCCPodcast , and you can follow hosts Brad Gullickson @MouthDork & Lisa Gullickson @sidewalksiren . Send us your Words of Affirmation by leaving us a 5-Star Review on Apple Podcasts . SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY JOINING <a href='https://www.patreon.com/cbccpodca
Fri, August 12, 2022
Creator Corner: Attack Peter & The Walking Dead: Last Mile
We conclude our San Diego Comic-Con International coverage with a massive Skybound Entertainment celebration. In part one of this week's episode, we're joined by Attack Peter, the master artist and Kaiju-wrangler, who nearly brought the house down during the Up From the Depth ' s : Toho ' s Godzilla panel. His new, titanic creation Takoro : The Last Dorok is on the verge of worldwide domination, and we already want all the toys even before his Kickstarter campaign has launched. In this episode's second half, we chat with the crew (Jacob Navok, Jessica Woodard, and Mike Rogers) and hosts (Felicia Day and Yvette Nicole Brown) behind The Walking Dead : Last Mile , the massively interactive live event which recently launched on Facebook. Our conversation dives immediately into the philosophical and societal anxiety fueling this latest chapter in The Walking Dead franchise. It's the kind of conversation you could only have on Comic Book Couples Counseling . This year's Comic-Con was unlike any previous SDCC, and we are thankful to take a moment and reflect on the experience. After three years away, we are overcome with gratitude regarding the new and old friends we were able to meet in person this year. We're deeply proud of the six episodes we created around the event and profoundly thankful to all of you who listened and shared them with your friends. Let's do it again next year. Make sure to track down Attack Peter via his Twitter and Instagram . You can back Takoro : The Last Dorok on his Kickstarter page when it launches, and until then you can click the "Notify Me On Launch" function. Oh heck, just go surf his Linktre . You can join The Walking Dead : Last Mile through their Facebook page . You can follow Felicia Day via her Twitter and Instagram . You can follow Yvette Nicole Brown via her Twitter and Instagram . You can follow Jacob Navok via his Twitter . You can follow Mike Rogers via his Twitter . Relevant Links: The Anti-Nostalgia of Paper Girls by Lisa Gullickson Comic-Con, The Hall H Line Problem, & Black Panther by Brad Gullickson <
Sun, July 31, 2022
Creator Corner: Brian K. Vaughan, Cliff Chiang, & the Paper Girls cast
Yes, we're back from the San Diego Comic-Con International and we've returned with one of the wildest conversations we've had so far. Brian K. Vaughan and Cliff Chiang climax this week's episode, chatting about the new Paper Girls adaptation streaming on Amazon. However, they're not the only ones gabbing with us. We were lucky enough to chat with the entire Paper Girls cast, as well as showrunner Chris Rogers. Our latest Creator Corner conversation was recorded in a press room, roundtable style. Imagine the podcast equivalent of speed dating, where various talent-pairs move about the room talking to one press table after the other until they land in front of us. At our table, in addition to the Paper Girls talent, we reported alongside Popverse correspondent ( and former CBCC guest ) Kat Calamia and Shaunielle Stewart from cherrydavis.org . The Interview Order: Camryn Jones as Tiffany Quilken & Sofia Rosinsky as Mac Coyle (Paired) Riley Lai Nelet as Erin Tieng & Fina Strazza as KJ Brandman (Paired) Adina Porter as Prioress Nate Corddry as Larry EP / Showrunner Chris Rogers Executive Producer / Creator Brian K. Vaughan & EP / Creator Cliff Chiang (Paired) Relevant Links: The Anti-Nostalgia of Paper Girls by Lisa Gullickson Comic-Con, The Hall H Line Problem, & Black Panther by Brad Gullickson James Asmus & Jim Festante on Survival Street Matt Kindt on Flux House Scott Snyder on Canary, Barnstormers, & Dudley Datson Elsa Charretier & Tom King on Love Everlasting And, of course, follow Comic Book Couples Counseling <a href='https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100068783884200&comment_id=Y29tbWVudDo1ODQzMjQ1NjI5MDQ5MTMwXzU4NTM0N
Sat, July 23, 2022
Creator Corner: Tom King and Elsa Charretier on Love Everlasting
Love is a trap, especially if you're Joan Peterson tumbling terrifyingly through numerous romantic scenarios in the new Image Comics series Love Everlasting . Creators Tom King and Elsa Charretier satirize and celebrate the young romance comics, once mastered by Joe Simon and Jack Kirby. In the process, they savagely comment on the culture and business of love. King and Charretier climax our San Diego Comic-Con International coverage, joining us on the show and sharing their philosophy surrounding romantic fiction and how it shapes our perception. Both bring thorough, thoughtful consideration to the characters they're exploring, while also being cautious regarding the subtext they're plunging. Love Everlasting is a mighty swing comic, dropping its reader into a realm that masterfully balances absurdity, horror, and melodrama. King and Charretier delight in withholding a massive mythology but find confidence in their trust of us, their readers. We're patient, understanding, and eager to have this conversation. Hallmark courtship has had its day. You can currently read Love Everlasting 's first five issues via their Everlasting Productions Substack feed. However, if physical books are your jam, the first issue will make its Image Comics debut on August 10th. You should also follow Tom King on Twitter HERE and Instagram HERE , and Elsa Charretier on Twitter HERE and Instagram HERE . Find her YouTube page HERE . Today's episode is Part 4 in our #CBCCatSDCC coverage celebrating the return of the San Diego Comic-Con International. Part one was our chat with Survival Street writers James Asmus and Jim Festante. You can listen to their episode HERE . Part two was our convo with Matt Kindt discussing his new Flux House imprint at Dark Horse Comics. You can listen to his episode HERE . Part three was our epic chat with Scott Snyder about his second wave of ComiXology titles: Barnstormers , Canary , and Dudley Datson and the Forever Machine . You can listen to his episode HERE . And, of course, follow Comic Book Couples Counseling on
Thu, July 21, 2022
Creator Corner: Scott Snyder Returns!
Scott Snyder is back on Comic Book Couples Counseling ! The comic creator returns to the show for a joyfully thoughtful conversation discussing his next round of Best Jackett Press/ComiXology Originals: Barnstormers , Canary , and Dudley Datson and the Forever Machine . In this episode, we start our conversation with the San Diego Comic-Con International and what makes this year different from any other - besides the pandemic, obviously. Presenting your own comics to the con crowd is unique from promoting Batman or Justice League. These are Scott Snyder's babies, and there is something incredibly freeing about their Comic-Con arrival. From there, we dig into each title, discussing how his collaborations with artists Dan Panosian, Tula Lotay, and Jamal Igle create unfettered imagination. The "Scottober" ComiXology wave is exactly what readers want someone like Scott Snyder to do with his talent, time, and opportunity. These are comics with the pedal pressed to the metal, striving to accomplish what previous efforts only scratched upon. Toward the conversation's end, Snyder is kind enough to reveal another project on the horizon. One, we're extremely excited to see realized, and we think you will too. Collaboration, once again, is the magic word. The first issues of Barnstormers , Canary , and Dudley Datson and the Forever Machine are now available from ComiXology . You can also track Scott Snyder on Twitter HERE , Instagram HERE , and subscribe to his Substack HERE . Sort through his Best Jackett Press titles on their website . You can listen to our previous Scott Snyder Creator Corner HERE . Today's episode is Part 3 in our #CBCCatSDCC coverage celebrating the return of the San Diego Comic-Con International. Part one was our chat with Survival Street writers James Asmus and Jim Festante. You can listen to their episode HERE . Part two was our convo with Matt Kindt discussing his new Flux House imprint at Dark Horse Comics. You can listen to his episode HERE . Part four arrives on Saturday, and it's a delightful chat with Love Everlasting co-creators Elsa Charretier and Tom King. And, of course, follow Comic Book Couples Counseling <a href='https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=10006878388
Tue, July 19, 2022
Creator Corner: Matt Kindt on Flux House
When is a comic no longer a comic? Matt Kindt is determined to find out with his new Dark Horse Comics imprint, Flux House. The comic creator has always strived to push the art form, but he feels he can go even crazier and further by breaking the norms. The new four-part Mind MGMT : Bootleg series, made in collaboration with artists Farel Dalrymple, Jill Thompson, David Rubín, and Matt Lesniewski , is simply stage one in what's sure to be a revolutionary play to alter comics. In this episode, we chat with Matt Kindt about the Fluxus art movement and how it inspired him to do more with the comic book medium. We discuss the challenges of revolution within a capitalistic system and how to get around those necessary hiccups. It begins with putting your faith in the audience. They always want to go on a wild ride. Anyone who has attended a Matt Kindt book signing knows the artist delights in modifying a mass-produced object like a comic into a unique, one-of-a-kind artifact. With Flux House, can he replicate the experience on a grander scale? Kindt is not totally sure, but he's determined to find out. Mind MGMT : Bootleg #1 is currently on stands at your local shop . You can follow Matt Kindt through Twitter , Instagram , and his website . Our conversation with Matt Kindt is part two in our week-long celebration building up to the return of San Diego Comic-Con International. Part one was our chat with Survival Street writers James Asmus and Jim Festante. You can listen to their episode HERE . Part three drops this Thursday and will see Scott Snyder's return to CBCC, discussing his latest wave of Comixology creations. Part four arrives on Saturday, and it's a delightful chat with Love Everlasting co-creators Elsa Charretier and Tom King. Follow along with our Comic-Con coverage using the hashtag #CBCCatSDCC on our Twitter and Instagram. And, please, share these episodes with your friends. And, of course, follow Comic Book Couples Counseling on Facebook , on Instagram , and on Twitter @CBCCPodcast , and you can follow hosts Brad Gullickson @MouthDork & Lisa Gullickson @
Sun, July 17, 2022
Creator Corner: James Asmus & Jim Festante on Survival Street
Today's episode is brought to you by the letters W-T-F? Writers James Asmus and Jim Festante join us for a very special Creator Corner to discuss their new apocalyptic puppet caper comic Survival Street , which hits shops on August 3rd. Get that banana out of your ear, because we've got something else to shove in it. Now is a weird time to be alive. Frequently, hope seems out of reach. More and more, our neighbors appear to be strangers. If only the public access puppets of our youth could help us out now as they did back then. In Survival Street , they can, and they do! We talk with James Asmus and Jim Festante about their deliciously demented comic book and how they managed to adhere to the morality of yesterday's famous felt edutainers while also savagely lampooning them. Survival Street has a mean bite, but it maintains a massive heart too. The combination creates a surprisingly heartfelt satire demanding attention. From Dark Horse Comics, Survival Street #0 is currently available to read for free via Comic Book Resources . Jim Festante doesn't mess with social media, but you can find his website HERE . James Asmus can be reached on Twitter , Instagram , and at the Future Skeletons website . Survival Street artist Abylay Kussainov is @abylaykussainov on Twitter . Colorist Ellie Wright is @elliewrightart on Twitter . Letterer Taylor Esposito is @TaylorEspo on Twitter . Our Creator Corner conversation with James Asmus and Jim Festante officially kicks off our road to the San Diego Comic-Con International. Following right on the heels of this chat will be an in-depth discussion with Matt Kindt about his new Dark Horse Comics imprint Flux House, and following immediately after that, Scott Snyder returns to the podcast! If everything goes according to plan, we'll also be joined by Tom King and Elsa Charretier, detailing their new Image Comics series, Love Everlasting . Much more will come once we touch down in San Diego on Tuesday. Stay up to date with everything we're doing by following #CBCCatSDCC on Twitter and Instagram. And, of course, follow Comic Book Couples Counseling on Facebook , on Instagram , and on Twitter @CBCCPodcast , and you can
Tue, July 12, 2022
CBCC 83: Angela & Sera -1602 Witch Hunter Angela
Love doesn't come easy for Angela & Sera. After experiencing dastardly deceit and catastrophic revelation in Angela : Asgard ' s Assassin , Doctor Doom remakes the universe and dumps our Hevenly lovers in a Battleworld territory trapped in the Elizabethan age, Neil Gaiman 's 1602 . 1602 : Witch Hunter Angela finds our couple serving a vengeful deity, tracking and slaying Witchbreed. However, when an even more dangerous threat appears - the Faustians - Angela & Sera hop to a new genocidal mission. In doing so, they uncover long-brewing questions about their purpose and feelings for each other. In our second session with these two love birds, we examine their compatibility using Robin Roberts' Brighter by the Day : Waking Up to New Hopes and Dreams as our relationship guide. Our tribe is our vibe, but are a tribe of two enough to survive in such an antagonistic universe? We sure hope so. Relevant Links Discussed this Week: Angela & Sera CBCC Session 1: Asgard's Assassin Norrin & Dawn CBCC Session 3: Secret Wars Tips and Tricks for Thriving at Comic-Con Our 2019 CBCC Interview with Jason Mewes Issues covered in this episode: Marvel Comics' 1602 : Witch Hunter Angela 1 - 4, written by Marguerite Bennett and Kieron Gillen, art by Stephanie Hans, Marguerite Sauvage, Irene Koh, Jordie Bellaire, Frazer Irving, Kody Chamberlain, Lee Loughridge, and Lettered by VC’s Clayton Cowles. And, of course, follow Comic Book Couples Counseling on Facebook , on Instagram , and on Twitter @CBCCPodcast , and you can follow hosts Brad Gullickson @MouthDork & Lisa Gullickson @sidewalksiren . Send us your Words of Affirmation by leaving us a 5-Star Review on Apple Podcasts . SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY JOINING OUR PATREON COMMUNITY . Continue your conversation with CBCC by <a href='h
Tue, July 05, 2022
Creator Corner: Tyler Crook on The Lonesome Hunters
We should all take notice when a comic like The Lonesome Hunters comes around. It is a singular creation from a singular creator. After percolating on the idea for a decade, Tyler Crook has put his entire being into the story of Howard, Lupe, the magic sword, and the magpies. You can sense tremendous consideration and emotional excavation occurring on every page of the first issue, and it excites the reader beyond the narrative experience. The Lonesome Hunters is a pure comic book, and no other medium could contain what Crook does here. We were delighted to chat with Tyler Crook about The Lonesome Hunters and why it required him to command every avenue of its creation. Not only is Crook the writer and artist of the book, but he's also the colorist and letterer. You will not find too many other comics on the stand right now that can claim such ownership. And, as you will hear, there are creative and practical reasons why this is so. Tyler Crook provides honest and passionate insight into his creative process. We discuss The Lonesome Hunters' visual influences and the more personal aspects that flow through the pages. We probe the thematic issues we see in the narrative and examine how isolation and loneliness permeate modern culture. We also explore why horror and fantasy are the perfect vehicles to challenge extreme emotional states. The Lonesome Hunters #1 is currently in stores from Dark Horse Comics . Please consider subscribing to all four issues so we can ensure this story's continuation. Be sure to continue this conversation with Tyler Crook by visiting his Twitter , Instagram , and Website . Relevant Links Discussed This Week: Our 1st Angela & Sera Couples Session @ChangoATX's t-shirt links Working Methods by John Lowe (TwoMorrows) Todd McFarlane's Rejected GI Joe Comic Visit Third Eye Comics And, of course, follow Comic Book Couples Counseling on Facebook , on Instagram , and on Twitter @CBCCPodcast , and you can follow hosts Brad Gullickson @MouthDork & Lisa Gullickson <a href='https
Thu, June 23, 2022
CBCC 82: Angela & Sera - Asgard’s Assassin
Nothing for Nothing! Angela and Sera are one of the most hotly requested couples from our listeners, and we're ecstatic to finally bring them into session using the Marvel Comics mini-series, Angela : Asgard ' s Assassin . For at least one of these Hevenly creatures, every action has a cost and every debt must be paid. Such obsession can create dangerous internal turmoil, especially after you've kidnapped your newborn sister from your parents who thought you were dead. Never mind your younger step-bro, Thor. Angela : Asgard ' s Assassin is a tricky yet nifty saga featuring numerous twists and turns. Basically, it's an exceptional narrative for a title character who previously existed in an entirely different comic book publishing realm. We get into all of that, but most importantly, we examine humanity's desire for happiness and the pursuit of everlasting joy. Angela & Sera might not seem like the perfect instructors for achieving this nirvana, but you might be surprised. Helping us navigate Angela & Sera's relationship is Brighter by the Day : Waking Up to New Hopes and Dreams by Good Morning America host and Women's Basketball Hall of Fame inductee Robin Roberts. Her self-help memoir explores how mood is a muscle demanding constant exercise. At first glance, the tools within her book don't seem to apply to our two Angels. However, they most certainly do. And they'll probably accomplish wonders for you as well. They're certainly helping us. Issues covered in this episode: Angela : Asgard ' s Assassin 1 - 6, written by Kieron Gillen and Marguerite Bennett, penciled by Phil Jimenez and Stephanie Hans, inked by Tom Palmer, Le Beau Underwood, Scott Hanna, and Stephanie Hans, colored by Romulo Fajardo Jr, and lettered by VC's Clayton Cowles. Angela was co-created by Neil Gaiman and Todd McFarlane and first appeared in Spawn #9. Relevant Links Discussed This Week: Our Sandman Patreon Episodes Our Main Feed Sandman #17 Episode Our Loki & Loki Everything Burns Episode Our Saga / How to Be Sad Episodes Our Fantastic Four Episodes And, of course, follow Comic Book Couples Counseling on Facebook , on Instagram , and on Twitter <
Tue, June 14, 2022
Patreon Preview: Sandman #17 - Morpheus and Calliope
With the recent Sandman trailer drop, the world seems re-energized regarding all things Dream King. We are here for it. In fact, we've been reading Neil Gaiman's epic series one issue at a time/one week at a time for more than a year now and recording our thoughts through our Patreon feed. Our Sleepwalking Through Sandman episodes are some of our favorite conversations that we've had in the Love Nest, made all the better by our Patrons providing context and history every week. When we initially launched the show, we plopped the first episode into our main feed, and we thought it was time to give our regular audience another preview. This Sandman #17 episode was initially recorded several months ago, but we think it's one of our best Sandman conversations. We hope you agree with us. As first-time Sandman readers, we're deeply fascinated with Morpheus' romantic relationships. You'll hear how we're struggling to comprehend his behavior toward Nada, and how this deep dive into his relationship with Calliope re-contextualizes the Dream King's actions. We hope you enjoy this chat. Longtime CBCC listeners may have some inkling of what we sound like when we're in full-sweatpants mode, but newcomers could be a little shocked. We can get real dang silly, friends. Enjoy! And please let us know what you think of this podcast series. Sandman #17 was published by DC Comics with a cover date of July 1990. It's written by Neil Gaiman, illustrated by Kelley Jones & Malcolm Jones III, lettered by Todd Klein, colored by Robbie Busch(Original) and Daniel Vozzo (Re-Color), assistant edited by Tom Peyer, edited by Karen Berger, and features a cover by Dave McKean. Created by Neil Gaiman, Sam Kieth, and Mike Dringenberg. Relevant links to this week's conversation: Our Patreon Page Our First Sleepwalking Through Sandman Episode Our Conversation with Chris Condon about That Texas Blood Our Conversation with Christian Ward about Blood Stained Teeth The Best Comics of 2021 Be sure to follow the podcast on Facebook , on Instagram , and Twitter @CBCCPodcast , and you can follow hosts Brad Gullickson <a href='https://tw
Wed, June 01, 2022
Creator Corner: Chip Zdarsky & Jason Loo on The All-Nighter
Artist Jason Loo wanted to make a vampire comic and get away from superheroes. Chip Zdarsky said, "Sure, but what if the vampires were hiding in plain sight as superheroes? And what if...uh...a whole bunch of other weird stuff was involved?" The All - Nighter from ComiXology Originals is a wild comic where every issue drops another bomb that is somehow wilder than the last. This week, Jason Loo and Chip Zdarsky join us in the Love Nest to explain why hats upon hats are a good thing, no matter what Matt Fraction says. Zdarsky and Loo discuss their latest collaboration, detailing how their vampire story swerved into something with stranger moral implications. Bloodlust, immortality, and fandom can be problematic, but um, that third hat...and the fourth hat these two creators plopped on top, oh boy, the implications suggested by The All - Nighter are beyond catastrophic. And we love them. Paired with our recent conversation with Christian Ward about Blood Stained Teeth , our chat with Chip Zdarsky and Jason Loo truly exemplifies why the vampire sub-genre maintains its bite. The undead always have more to give of themselves. You can still technically find Chip Zdarsky on Twitter and Instagram , but if you're looking for some proper interaction, consider joining his Substack . For the cost of two coffees a month, he will accept your praise or vile. He also has a nifty website . Jason Loo can be found on Twitter and Instagram , but his TikTok is really where it's at these days. Get on it asap. Most importantly, go grab The All - Nighter trade paperback from Dark Horse Comics , and download issue #6 from ComiXology . And, of course, follow Comic Book Couples Counseling on Facebook , on Instagram , and on Twitter @CBCCPodcast , and you can follow hosts Brad Gullickson @MouthDork & Lisa Gullickson @sidewalksiren . Send us your Words of Affirmation by leaving us a 5-Star Review <a href='https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/comic-boo
Mon, May 23, 2022
Creator Corner: Kyle Starks on I Hate This Place
Aliens and monsters and slashers, oh my! Kyle Starks didn't want to play with any one creature feature, so he threw them all into I Hate This Place . His new kitchen sink horror comic made in collaboration with Artyom Topilin, Lee Loughridge, and Pat Brosseau is a wild, far-out terror experience that feels unlike any other project he's put out before while also remaining true to his distinct oddball voice. Kyle Starks has wanted to tell this tale for a while, and I Hate This Place 's first issue reads with an electric urgency. The story follows Gabby and Trudy as they venture into the wilderness, where Gabby's aunt has left them a ranch to watch over. But, something else watches over the ranch as well. Maybe several other something elses, actually. None good. We were thrilled to have Starks back in our love nest, giving us all the gory details regarding I Hate This Place 's creative origin and why the comic comes in two titular flavors: I Hate or F*CK This . We also get into how those two titles truly do offer two separate thematic tastes. And, yes, which you desire says a lot about you. I Hate This Place #1 is currently available from Skybound Entertainment / Image Comics , and ready for purchase at your local comic shop. Issue #2 drops on June 22nd. Be sure to stay up to date on all things Kyle Starks by following him on Twitter HERE , on Instagram HERE , and by visiting his Website HERE . Other Relevant Links to this Week's Episode: Our Kyle Starks Old Head Interview And, of course, follow Comic Book Couples Counseling on Facebook , on Instagram , and on Twitter @CBCCPodcast , and you can follow hosts Brad Gullickson @MouthDork & Lisa Gullickson @sidewalksiren . Send us your Words of Affirmation by leaving us a 5-Star Review on Apple Podcasts . SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY JOINING OUR PATREON COMMUNITY . Continue your conversation with CBCC by hopping over to our website where we have r
Mon, May 09, 2022
Samurai Rabbit with Stan Sakai & The Usagi Chronicles Creative Team
On the show this week, we welcome Stan Sakai and the creative force behind the new Netflix series Samurai Rabbit : The Usagi Chronicles . Yeah, we can hardly believe it, either. After decades of anticipation, Miyamoto Usagi, the classic comic book character, finally has his own show. Kinda. But don't let that "kinda" worry you. It's all good. Adaptation is a scary concept when you love something as much as we love Usagi Yojimbo . Stan Sakai's comic is legendary. Few have ever dabbled in his world. The idea that showrunners Candie Langdale and Doug Langdale were able to play with his rabbit ronin makes us jittery. However, having watched the ten Samurai Rabbit episodes currently available, we can breathe a massive relief. This cartoon is good. Real good. And a big reason behind why the show works so well is how it circumvents fannish nitpicks by jumping into Miyamoto Usagi's future, following his brash, teenage descendant Yuichi Usagi instead. Samurai Rabbit skews a little younger than the comics, but it's not totally absent of corpses or stakes. Also, the series cleverly challenges Miyamoto's legacy through Yuichi's idolization. In this episode, we first chat with Stan Sakai and art director Khang Le about the thematic and artistic twists this series pulls from the Usagi Yojimbo comic book. We then chat with Candie Langdale and Doug Landale about their anxiety in adapting such a precious franchise. And, um, we might get some hints about how Samurai Rabbit encourages Stan Sakai's desire to see other creators play with his toys. Relevant Links to this Week's Episode: Lisa's Comics Bookcase interview with Jadzia Axelrod & Jess Taylor Our Conversation with Chris Samnee & Laura Samnee CBCC 54: Miyamoto & Tomoe - Grasscutter CBCC 55: Miyamoto & Tomoe - The Mother of Mountains CBCC 56: Miyamoto & Tomoe - Tomoe's Story CBCC 57: Miyamoto & Tomoe - Senso Be sure to stay updated on all things Stan Sakai by visiting his Twitter HERE , his Instagram HERE , and his Website HERE . You can foll
Thu, April 28, 2022
Creator Corner: Jeff Smith on Tuki
We owe our imagination to Jeff Smith. His masterpiece, Bone , shaped our inner lives, molding our philosophies as much as our creativity. It's a work so profound it's nearly impossible to consider that any future work could ever live up to its brilliance. But then we read Tuki : Fight for Fire and Tuki : Fight for Family . We now welcome these comics into our hearts, beating side by side with the Bone cousins. Two million BCE. Multiple human species existed alongside each other. We live and breathe as a result of their struggle and collaboration. For many years, Jeff Smith percolated on this unique moment in time, and Tuki is the result. Like Bone , it's a quest saga sitting atop an ever-growing mythology. The title character reluctantly surrounds himself with individuals in desperate need of companionship despite their fear and weary judgment of each other. Tuki is a comic speaking to our moment as much as it underscores our evolutionarily catastrophic history. You will recognize the hardship in its pages. You'll also recognize the hope. We were more than delighted to chat with Jeff Smith about Tuki and why this narrative has haunted him for so long. We were damn giddy. We discuss Smith's obsessions, his process, his audience, and more. We celebrate where comic readers are today, where they were yesterday, and where they'll be tomorrow. Our conversation is an epic one. We know you'll enjoy it. Relevant Links to this Week's Episode: Jeff Smith's Netflix Cartoon Our Interview with Chris Samnee & Laura Samnee Our Final Marko & Alana Saga Episode Four Color Fantasies' Charity Auction to Support the Literacy Volunteers of Winchester Jeff Smith's ComicsXF Interview Be sure to stay updated on all things Jeff Smith by visiting his Twitter HERE , his Instagram HERE , and his Website HERE . You can purchase Tuki : Fight for Fire wherever fine comics are sold, or you can click HERE . Tuki : Fight for Family arrives on shelves in early July. You can pre-or
Thu, April 21, 2022
CBCC 81: Marko & Alana - Saga Volume 9
Goodbye, Marko & Alana. We're not ready. No other comic book couple has occupied as much space on our podcast as these two. Therefore, it's not terribly surprising that our final conversation discussing their epic romance is our BIGGEST EPISODE EVER! You probably remember where you were when you first read Saga #54. And you probably remember exactly how its last few pages made you feel. Saga Volume 9 is a tough storyline to process, and we've had years to do it. We trudge through the comic, practically page-by-page, emotion-by-emotion. The conversation was...a lot, but also incredibly cathartic. Thankfully, helping us grapple with sorrow is author Helen Russell and her book, " How to Be Sad : The Key to a Happier Life : Everything I've Learned About Getting Happier , by Being Sad, Better. " We can't fight sadness, and it's not good or bad. It's merely essential to our human experience. Embrace it. Issues Covered in this Episode: Saga # 49 - 54, collected in trade paperback Volume 9. They were written by Brian K. Vaughan, fully illustrated by Fiona Staples, and lettered by Fonografiks. Image Comics originally published the issues between February 2018 and July 2018. If you require catchup on our Saga series, please listen to our previous episodes discussing Marko & Alana: Saga Volume 1 Saga Volume 2 Saga Volume 3 Saga Volume 4 Saga Volume 5 Saga Volumes 6 & 7 Saga Volume 8 Other relevant links discussed this week: The Saga #54 Reaction Twitter Thread "Why Saga #54 Hurts So Bad" by Zack Quaintance Grieving with Martian Manhunter <a href='https://c
Fri, April 08, 2022
Creator Corner: Jeff Lemire & Andrea Sorrentino on The Bone Orchard Mythos
In this week's episode, we offer a warning. The Bone Orchard Mythos from Jeff Lemire and Andrea Sorrentino represents a layer of dread not previously explored by the creators. The new shared universe from Image Comics is the first time Lemire and Sorrentino have fully plunged themselves into the horror genre. Oh, you thought Gideon Falls was creepy? Sure, it got under your skin, but as you'll hear in our conversation with Lemire and Sorrentino, The Bone Orchard Mythos finds the collaborators daring to unleash a horror experience unlike anything else they've committed. Your first chance to dive into The Bone Orchard Mythos arrives on May 7th, Free Comic Book Day , when Lemire and Sorrentino unveil their Prelude single issue. The next chapter, the original graphic novel The Passageway , lands in comic book shops on June 15th and in bookstores on June 21st. Next, they'll drop their Ten Thousand Black Feathers mini-series in September. And that's just the beginning. Be sure to stay updated with Jeff Lemire by visiting his Twitter HERE , his Instagram HERE , and his Substack HERE . Track Andrea Sorrentino via his Twitter HERE and his Instagram HERE . Other Relevant Links to this Week's Episode: Cherish Chen on Radiant Red Rantz Hoseley on Little Earthquakes Michael Tanner and François Vigneault on Orcs in Space Lisa chats with Jadzia Axelrod and Jess Taylor about Galaxy Marko and Alana Saga Session #7 And, of course, follow Comic Book Couples Counseling on Facebook , on Instagram , and on Twitter @CBCCPodcast , and you can follow hosts Brad Gullickson @MouthDork & Lisa Gullickson <a href='https://twitter.com/side
Tue, March 29, 2022
CBCC 80: Marko & Alana - Saga Volume 8
When you think Saga , you think of "fun-filled" adventures, right? Oh, and tears. So many, many tears. Welcome to our penultimate episode discussing the heroically heartbreaking relationship between Marko & Alana. No other comic book couple has preoccupied as much space on our podcast as this one, and as we approach their end, we prepare to embrace our own grief as well as theirs. Helping us grapple with sorrow is author Helen Russell and her book, " How to Be Sad : The Key to a Happier Life : Everything I've Learned About Getting Happier , by Being Sad, Better. " Ignoring sadness is not only impossible, the attempt to do so is detrimental to our health. Marko, Alana, and Helen are here to lend aid. Issues Covered in this Episode: Saga # 43 - 48, collected in trade paperback Volume 8. They were written by Brian K. Vaughan, fully illustrated by Fiona Staples, and lettered by Fonografiks. Image Comics originally published the issues between May 2017 and October 2017. If you require catchup on our Saga series, please listen to our previous episodes discussing Marko & Alana: Saga Volume 1 Saga Volume 2 Saga Volume 3 Saga Volume 4 Saga Volume 5 Saga Volumes 6 & 7 Other relevant links discussed this week: BKV Brings Saga Out West for 'Fun-Filled' Arc Thanos & Death & Brene Brown Bustle's "Why The Miscarriage in Saga is so Revolutionary" And, of course, follow Comic Book Couples Counseling on Facebook , on Instagram , and on Twitter @C
Tue, March 22, 2022
Creator Corner: Chris Samnee & Laura Samnee on Jonna and the Unpossible Monsters
Breaking News! Chris Samnee and Laura Samnee join us in the love nest to discuss their new all-ages comic book series, Jonna and the Unpossible Monsters . Yeah, we're just as surprised about their appearance here as you are, but we're mostly beyond excited to have our first creative couples session with those responsible for one of our favorite comics on the stands. Jonna and the Unpossible Monsters is a lovingly warm adventure tale set in a world of titanic beasts. With their dad missing, Rainbow and Jonna scour the land, stumbling into one danger after another. Thankfully, the littlest sister packs quite a punch. In this week's episode, we chat with the Samnees about why this series demanded collaboration. We celebrate how Jonna and the Unpossible Monsters represents a true family project, inspired by their daughters and Chris Samnee's intense fear of birds. Yeah, we get into it. We're honored to have Chris and Laura on Comic Book Couples Counseling , and you should feel honored too. This episode is the very first podcast Laura Samnee has ever recorded. We hope we haven't scared her off the format forever, but we think it's the start of some tremendous podcast potential. Jonna and the Unpossible Monsters Volume 1 is currently available from Oni Press . Volume 2 will appear on comic book shelves on April 6th, and issue #9 will arrive in shops on April 20th. The comic is written by Chris Samnee and Laura Samnee, featuring art by Chris Samnee, colors by Matthew Wilson, and letters by Crank! We do not give away too many spoilers beyond the premise, so venture within safely if you're new to this world. After this conversation, we're confident that you'll be as addicted to Jonna as much as we are, demanding at least a seventy-five issue run. Be sure to continue this conversation with Chris Samnee via his Twitter and Instagram . You can also give Laura's one Instagram photo a Like by clicking HERE . If you'd like to listen to the Ghost Cage #1 Interview with Nick Dragotta and Caleb Goellner referenced in the outro, you can do so by clicking HERE . And here are the relevant Saga Marko & Alana links: Saga Volume 1 Saga Volume 2 <a href='https://www.comicbookcouplescounseling.com/podcast/episode/5c0c86a9/cbcc-7-marko-
Mon, March 14, 2022
CBCC 79: Marko & Alana - Saga Vols. 6 & 7
In Saga , Marko & Alana cannot escape sadness. Rather than running, they lean into it, and by sharing their sorrow, they gain strength. Any Star Trek V : The Final Frontier fans out there? Sybok knew what was up. We race toward Saga's halfway point and the tragic cliffhanger ending to end all tragic cliffhanger endings, which is really saying something when discussing Brian K. Vaughan and Fiona Staples' sci-fi romance masterpiece. As we did the last episode, we consulted Helen Russell's " How to Be Sad : The Key to a Happier Life : Everything I've Learned About Getting Happier , by Being Sad, Better. " If she can help us embrace our sadness, maybe she can help Marko & Alana through their tumultuous journey. Issued Covered in this Episode: Saga # 31 - 42, collected in trade paperback Vols. 6 & 7. They were written by Brian K. Vaughan, fully illustrated by Fiona Staples, and lettered by Fonografiks. Image Comics originally published the issues between November 2015 and January 2017. Previous CBCC Saga Episodes: Saga Volume 1 Saga Volume 2 Saga Volume 3 Saga Volume 4 Saga Volume 5 Other Relevant Links: Christian Holub's Entertainment Weekly Interview w/Vaughan & Staples Depression Textline (US) : Text HOME to 741741 Be sure to follow the podcast on Facebook , on Instagram , and on Twitter @CBCCPodcast , and you can follow hosts Brad Gullickson @MouthDork & Lisa Gullickson @sidewalksiren . Send us your Words of Affirmation by leaving us a 5-Star Review on Apple Podcasts . SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY JOINING <a href='https://www.patreon.com/cbccpodc
Mon, February 28, 2022
CBCC 78: Marko & Alana - Saga Vol. 5
Saga is back! And if Saga is back, then we better get back to investigating Marko & Alana's tumultuous, universe-threatening romance. After we finished Saga Volume 4 on the podcast two years ago, we took a break, waiting for Brian K. Vaughan and Fiona Staples to get back into the business of publishing rad comics. It took a little longer than we expected, but the single issues are flowing again, and it's time for us to catch up. Knowing how challenging Saga can be on our emotions, we thought the best way to approach Marko & Alana this time around was through Helen Russell's self-help book, " How to Be Sad : The Key to a Happier Life : Everything I've Learned About Getting Happier , by Being Sad, Better. " Sadness is not something to fight but embrace. Marko, Alana, and Helen will help us realize this natural human experience. Issued Covered in this Episode: Saga # 25 - 30, which were collected in trade paperback Vol. 5. Written by Brian K. Vaughan, fully illustrated by Fiona Staples, and lettered by Fonografiks. The issues were originally published by Image Comics between February 2015 and July 2015. Previous CBCC Saga Episodes: Saga Volume 1 Saga Volume 2 Saga Volume 3 Saga Volume 4 Relevant Helen Russell Links: Depression Textline (US) : Text HOME to 741741 Just How Bad Negative Affect Is For YOur Health Depends on Culture Don't Worry, Be Sad! On Cognitive, Motivational, and Interpersonal Benefits on Negative Mood CBCC Guest Appearances: Talkin' Sex Criminals w/The Comics Collective Talkin' us w/WMQ&A Talkin' Best Comic Book Couples w/The Oblivion Bar <a href='https://www.thenerdparty.com/missingframes/between-takes-053-the-franchy
Fri, February 18, 2022
Creator Corner: Garth Ennis on Battle Action
Battle ! Action ! To hear Garth Ennis explain it, these two British publications are responsible for the comic book landscape we're all living in today. Without their influence, the Briitish invasion would never have occurred in the states - no Watchmen , no Sandman , no Preacher . No, thank you. This week, Garth Ennis joins us to discuss his upcoming Battle Action Special as well as his Hawk the Slayer sequel (wait, what? Yes!) from 2000 AD. From there, we gain a better understanding of how Garth Ennis became the writer we know him to be, and we delve into his philosophies around war fiction and how they fed his interpretation of Frank Castle, Marvel's The Punisher . The Battle Action Special will hit comic shops in June and everywhere else in September. Hawk the Slayer #1 hits the UK in April and the US in May. You can learn more by visiting the 2000AD website . Other Relevant Links: The Dolph Lundgren CBCC Interview Saga Volume 1 Saga Volume 2 Saga Volume 3 Saga Volume 4 And, of course, follow Comic Book Couples Counseling on Facebook , on Instagram , and on Twitter @CBCCPodcast , and you can follow hosts Brad Gullickson @MouthDork & Lisa Gullickson @sidewalksiren . Send us your Words of Affirmation by leaving us a 5-Star Review on Apple Podcasts . SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY JOINING OUR PATREON COMMUNITY . Continue your conversation with CBCC by hopping over to our website where we have reviews, essays, and numerous interviews with comic book creators. Podcast logo by Aaron Prescott <a href
Fri, February 04, 2022
Creator Corner: Skottie Young on I Hate Fairyland
Oh, Muffin Fluffer! Skottie Young joins us for a deep dive discussion about his creative process, his obsession with relationship stories, and what we can expect when I Hate Fairyland returns in July. Right now, we're witnessing a significant moment in his creative evolution. With books like Strange Academy and The Me You Love in the Dark , Skottie plunges into himself and pulls out relatable turmoil for all of us to consume. In the process, we all become better people. Teaming up with fellow creators like Dean Rankine, Fábio Moon, and Gabriel Bá, Skottie Young is building toward I Hate Fairyland 's return with his Stupid Fresh Mess Substack release, The Unbelievable, Unfortunately Mostly Unreadable and Nearly Unpublishable Untold Tales of I Hate Fairyland . By inviting others to his party, he solidifies his world as one of the greats. After listening to the episode, you can continue the conversation through his website , his Instagram account , and Twitter feed . And you can subscribe to his Substack by clicking HERE . Our next Couples Session begins next episode when we return to SAGA by Brian K. Vaughan and Fiona Staples. We'll be covering trade paperback volumes 5 - 9. Make sure you catch up on our previous SAGA conversations: Saga Volume 1 Saga Volume 2 Saga Volume 3 Saga Volume 4 And, of course, follow Comic Book Couples Counseling on Facebook , on Instagram , and on Twitter @CBCCPodcast , and you can follow hosts Brad Gullickson @MouthDork & Lisa Gullickson @sidewalksiren . Send us your Words of Affirmation by leaving us a 5-Star Review on Apple Podcasts . SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY JOINING OUR PATREON COMMUNITY . Continue your conversation with CBCC by <a href='https://www.comicbookcouples
Sat, January 29, 2022
Creator Corner: Mark Siegel on 5 Worlds: The Emerald Gate
Five years since the first 5 Worlds published, comic creator Mark Siegel joins us to discuss the final graphic novel chapter, The Emerald Gate . These stories represent more than the epic quest they depict; they're a creative collision resulting from five artistic talents aligning in harmonious imagination. Like the characters within 5 Worlds , these collaborators were changed by the journey, and we were giddy to chat with Siegel about the impact his characters and their creation had on him and his partners. As we've discussed recently on the show, we've connected deeply with many all-ages and young adult comics, and 5 Worlds is no different. This saga follows three adventurers as they jump planets, racing to unite sentient life across the universe before dark forces consume everything. You will find yourself within its pages. 5 Worlds : The Emerald Gate is now available from Random House Books. It's written by Mark Siegel and Alexis Siegel, and illustrated by Xanthe Bouma, Boya Sun, and Matt Rockefeller. Be sure to follow Mark Siegle on Twitter and on Instagram . Keep up to date on his projects by visiting his website . Other Relevant Links: Lisa's AIPT Sundance 2022 Coverage Brad's Film School Rejects Coverage And, of course, follow Comic Book Couples Counseling on Facebook , on Instagram , and on Twitter @CBCCPodcast , and you can follow hosts Brad Gullickson @MouthDork & Lisa Gullickson @sidewalksiren . Send us your Words of Affirmation by leaving us a 5-Star Review on Apple Podcasts . SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY JOINING OUR PATREON COMMUNITY . Continue your conversation with CBCC by hopping over to our website where we have reviews, essays, and numerous interviews with comic book creators. Podcast logo by Aaron Prescott @acoolhandfluke , podcast banner art by @Karen_XmenFan .
Thu, January 20, 2022
A Mignolaverse Celebration with Rob Williams & Warwick Johnson-Cadwell
This week, comic creators Rob Williams and Warwick Johnson-Cadwell join us to discuss their new contributions to The Mignolaverse , The Sword of Hyperborea and Falconspeare . They're both incredible comics, totally different from each other, but they absolutely belong together within Mike Mignola's apocalyptic landscape. The Mignolaverse commands a very special corner within the Love Nest. Mike Mignola's Hellboy comics were the first comics Brad ever put into Lisa's hands. It was an insane, and maybe foolish, risk - what if she didn't love them? Thankfully, she said yes...they are the greatest comics ever, and their relationship continued. It was only a matter of time before these stories were celebrated on Comic Book Couples Counseling, and we're thrilled to have this party with Rob Williams and Warwick Johnson-Cadwell in attendance. And we get the impression that they're just as thrilled to be celebrating Mike Mignola as we are. The Sword of Hyperborea is out now from Dark Horse Comics , and Falconspeare will hit shelves on 1/25 . While you wait, however, what don't you nab Johnson-Cadwell's Mr . Higgins Comes Home and Our Encounters With Evil . If you need further convincing, read Lisa's glowing Falconspeare review over on Comics Bookcase . And, don't forget to check out our previous conversation with Rob Williams, talking about Judge Dredd : End of Days . Be sure to find Rob on Twitter HERE , Instagram HERE , and visit his official website HERE . And you can do the same thing for Warwick Johnson-Cadwell by smashing follow on his Twitter HERE and Instagram HERE . And, of course, follow Comic Book Couples Counseling on Facebook , on Instagram , and on Twitter @CBCCPodcast , and you can
Thu, January 13, 2022
The Best Comics of 2021 (Part Two)
Here it is—The Best Comics of 2021 (Part Two). As far as comics were concerned, the year was simply too marvelous. We had to stretch the celebration across two episodes. If you haven't already listened to The Best Comics of 2021 (Part One), you can find it by clicking HERE . As with that previous episode, we invited numerous friends onto the show to help us with this party. We are humbled by their enthusiasm and their generosity. It's an honor to have them partake; please seek them out via the links below and share their good work often. Award Category Timestamps: Best Cat Comic - 8:29 Best Food Comic - 10:29 Best Ongoing Series - 25:18 Best Original Graphic Novel - 35:30 Best Single Issue - 40:28 Best Limited Series - 48:25 Writer of the Year - 56:30 Artist of the Year - 1:13:02 Best Basketball Comic - 1:17:13 Discovery of the Year - 1:19:02 Episode Cameos: Erin ( @GirlsTalkComic1 ) from Girls Talk Comics Christian Holub ( @cmholub ) from Entertainment Weekly Connor Goldsmith ( @CerebroCast ) from Cerebro Chris Arrant ( @chrisarrant ) from Newsarama Kat Calamia ( @ComicUno ) from Comic Uno Dallas ( @dallas_comics ), Carol Anne Talks Comics! ( @AnneComics ), & Lexi Taylor ( @lexilou_comics ) from The Comics Collective Zack Quaintance ( @ComicsBookcase ) from Comics Bookcase Nathan Simmons ( @whatastorynate ) from AIPT Other Relevant Links: Best Comics of 2021 by the Comics Bookcase Staff, including Lisa Film School Rejects' The 15 Best Comic Books of 2021 by Brad Best Comics o
Tue, January 11, 2022
The Best Comics of 2021 (Part One)
Sorting through The Best Comics of 2021 was no easy task. In an utterly bugnuts year, the medium produced numerous brilliant works. Putting our heads together, we created thirteen categories (that are very CBCC) and split them over two EPIC episodes. Welcome to Part One, the Thunderdome. With 2021 being a banger year for comic books, we invited some friends onto the show to name their favorites. You will hear some familiar titles, but we believe you'll also encounter several discoveries. And while you're putting these comics on your to-read pile, why don't you also add these brilliant podcasters and journalists to your regular comic book consumption list. Our hope is that these two episodes will get your new year off to a joyous start. Below you'll find timestamps for each category as well as links to these fabulous guests and their websites. Seek them out and give them some words of affirmation. Timestamps: Best Digital Release - 12:15 Best Biographical Comic - 19:34 Best All-Ages Comic - 29:31 Best Young Adult Comic - 36:59 Best First Issue - 50:20 Episode Cameos: David Brooke ( @Nosocialize ) from AIPT Guido ( @GuiAlexSan ) & Rob ( @RobertRibar ) from Dear Watchers Dan Gvozden ( @SupSpiderTalk ) from Amazing Spider-Talk Jessika ( @Jessikawitha ) & Mike ( @vansau ) from Ten Cent Takes Sara Century ( @saracentury ) & S.E. Fleenor ( @se_fleenor ) from Bitches on Comics Other Relevant Links: Best Comics of 2021 by the Comics Bookcase Staff, including Lisa Film School Rejects' The 15 Best Comic Books of 2021 by Brad Best Comics of 2021 by The Comics Collective Filmspotting's Top 10 Films of 2021 STAY TUNED FOR THE BEST COMICS OF 2021, PART TWO... And, of course, follow Comic Book Couples Counseling <a href='https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100068783884200&comment_id=Y29tbWVudDo1ODQzMjQ1NjI5MDQ5MTMwXzU4NTM0NjU3NjgwMjcxMTY%
Fri, December 31, 2021
CBCC 77: Carmen & Hwen - The Second Life of Doctor Mirage (Part Two)
We say goodbye to 2021 with our final conversation on The Second Life of Doctor Mirage . Carmen and Hwen are GOALS; they're a high-functioning power couple that work best when they rely on each other's exceptional skills. We need more comic book couples like this one, friends. We have more to learn from them than they do from us. And we can certainly learn more from them than we can this week's "Love Ecccchhhhhspert." Lisa is still raging against the machine in this episode. Just sit back and enjoy the boiling contempt. Issues discussed this week: The Second Life of Doctor Mirage #10 - 18, published by Valiant Comics between September 1994 and May 1995. They’re written by Bob Layton and Jim Perham, penciled by Bernard Chang, Jordi Ensign, and Yancy Labatt, inked by Ken Branch, colored by Todd Britton, Andrew Covalt, Eric Hope, Shree Boyd, Chrysoula Artemis-Gomez, John Cebollero, Knob Row, and Mark Csaszar, and lettered by Rob Johnson, Adam Niedzwiecki, Bethanne Niedz, and Santiago Vazquez. Listen to our previous Doctor Mirage Episodes: The Deathmate Crossover Event with the Ten Cent Takes podcast The Second Life of Doctor Mirage (Part One) Further Reading: Best Comics of 2021 by the Comics Bookcase staff (including Lisa) Film School Rejects' The 15 Best Comic Books of 2021 by Brad Brad's Interview with Warren Ellis Be sure to follow the podcast on Facebook , on Instagram , and on Twitter @CBCCPodcast , and you can follow hosts Brad Gullickson @MouthDork & Lisa Gullickson @sidewalksiren . Send us your Words of Affirmation by leaving us a 5-Star Review on Apple Podcasts . SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY JOINING OUR PATREON COMMUNITY . Continue your conversation with CBCC by hopping over to our website where we have reviews, essays, and numerous interviews with comic book creat
Mon, December 13, 2021
CBCC 76: Carmen & Hwen - The Second Life of Doctor Mirage (Part One)
The Second Life of Doctor Mirage presents a rare commodity in comics, a functioning romantic couple. Carmen and Hwen are two butt-kicking parapsychologists with unique abilities that complement each other. They've experienced a lot of weirdness in their relationship, and it has prepared them for the ultimate paranormal trip - when Hwen becomes an incorporeal specter! In this week's episode, we examine one of the most underrated couples in comics and discover heaps of inspiration for ourselves. Yes, we consult a love "expert" as usual, and they provide some surprising challenges. Don't forget to check out our guest-spot on the Ten Cent Takes podcast , where we discuss the Image Comics/Valiant Comics crossover event, Deathmate . It's a strange dip into the 90s comics scene and provides plenty of historical context for our Doctor Mirage conversation. Issues discussed this week: The Second Life of Doctor Mirage #1 - 9, published by Valiant Comics between November 1993 and August 1994. The comics are written by Bob Layton and Jim Perham (co-writing on #8), penciled by Bernard Chang and Mike Leeke (only on #8), inked by Ken Branch, colored by Maurice Fontenot and Mark Csaszar, and lettered by Rob Johnson, Joe Abelo, and Santiago Vazquez. Be sure to follow the podcast on Facebook , on Instagram , and on Twitter @CBCCPodcast , and you can follow hosts Brad Gullickson @MouthDork & Lisa Gullickson @sidewalksiren . Send us your Words of Affirmation by leaving us a 5-Star Review on Apple Podcasts . SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY JOINING OUR PATREON COMMUNITY . Continue your conversation with CBCC by hopping over to our website where we have reviews, essays, and numerous interviews with comic book creators. Podcast logo by Aaron Prescott @acoolhandfluke , podcast banner art by @Karen_XmenFan .
Sat, December 04, 2021
CBCC Crossover: Deathmate with Ten Cent Takes
Worlds collide as Image Comics and Valiant Comics smash their ugly bits and produce DEATHMATE , the most epic crossover event in comics? Perhaps! This week, we join the Ten Cent Takes podcast to discuss this mondo bizarro mini-series that dared to shake the industry in the early nineties. And the best bit? At the center of Deathmate is a catastrophic love affair between WildC.A.T.S.' Void and Solar: Man of the Atom. This means we get to throw The Five Love Langues into the mix in an effort to make a little more sense of this beautiful madness. After you listen to this insane deep dive, make sure to jump on over to the Ten Cent Takes podcast and smash that subscribe button . Also, be sure to follow them on Twitter and Instagram . You'll want these rad folks in your lives. Follow our podcast on Facebook , on Instagram , and on Twitter @CBCCPodcast , and you can follow hosts Brad Gullickson @MouthDork & Lisa Gullickson @sidewalksiren . Send us your Words of Affirmation by leaving us a 5-Star Review on Apple Podcasts . SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY JOINING OUR PATREON COMMUNITY . Continue your conversation with CBCC by hopping over to our website where we have reviews, essays, and numerous interviews with comic book creators. Podcast logo by Aaron Prescott @acoolhandfluke , podcast banner art by @Karen_XmenFan .
Thu, November 25, 2021
CBCC Creator Corner: Scott Snyder on His ComiXology First Wave
We welcome Scott Snyder onto the show to discuss his EPIC collaboration with ComiXology as well as numerous other projects and philosophies. And, yes, we talk Batman. Snyder has written some of our all-time favorite comic books, from The Court of Owls to American Vampire to Nocterra . If he writes a book, we buy that book. We would be thrilled to chat with him about any number of those titles, but we've caught him at an incredible turning point in his career, and dammit, we were super lucky to do so. His three most recent comics ( We Have Demons , Clear , and Night of the Ghoul ) represent an incredible surge in imagination and optimism. Snyder is not only betting on himself and his partners; he's betting on you and the industry's future. Scott Snyder is a beacon of hope/faith, and it was a joy to discuss how this positive attitude pulsates through these gnarly genre mash-ups. Make sure you jump on over to the Best Jackett Press website , where you can get the details on the eight ComiXology Originals . You can also track him down on Twitter HERE , Instagram HERE , and subscribe to his Substack HERE . Catch up with CBCC by listening to our latest Session with Black Canary and Green Arrow . Follow the podcast on Facebook , on Instagram , and on Twitter @CBCCPodcast , and you can follow hosts Brad Gullickson @MouthDork & Lisa Gullickson @sidewalksiren . Send us your Words of Affirmation by leaving us a 5-Star Review on Apple Podcasts . SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY JOINING OUR PATREON COMMUNITY . Continue your conversation with CBCC by hopping over to our website where we
Thu, November 18, 2021
CBCC 75: Dinah & Ollie - Green Arrow/Black Canary Wedding
Till Death Do They Part! When it comes to Green Arrow and Black Canary - that's been there, done that. They don't let a corpse get in the way of their romance. After years of hot, steaming action and betrayal, Oliver Queen and Dinah Lance finally tie the knot. In response, every hero and villain turn out for the festivities, and a terrible and most upsetting tragedy occurs when the smoke clears. We close out our conversation on DC Comics' sexiest couple by covering their nuptials and the 14-issue Green Arrow / Black Canary series that proceeds it. Helping us sort through the romantic turmoil is love expert Megan Lundgren and her self-help guide The R elationship Book for New Couples : Proven Strategies to Nurture Your Connection and Build a Long-Lasting Bond . Issues discussed this week: Green Arrow / Black Canary Wedding Special #1 and Green Arrow / Black Canary issues 1 - 14 published by DC Comics between November 2007 and January 2009. The comics are written by Judd Winick, illustrated by Amanda Conner, Cliff Chiang, Mike Norton, André Coelho, Wayne Faucher, and Rodney Ramos, Colored by Paul Mounts, Patricia Mulvihill, and David Baron, and Lettered by Ken Lopez, Pat Brosseau, Travis Lanham, Jared K. Fletcher, Steve Wands, and Sal Cipriano. Don't forget to join our Green Arrow/Black Canary conversation from the beginning with Sessions 71 and 72: CBCC 71: Denny O'Neil's Justice League of America CBCC 72: Mike Grell's The Longbow Hunters CBCC 74: Kevin Smith & Phil Hester's Quiver Also referenced in this Episode: Brad's "Everyone Fails in Avengers : Endgame " article for Film School Rejects The Ten Cent Takes Podcast Be sure to follow the podcast on Facebook , on Instagram , and on Twitter @CBCCPodcast , and you can follow hosts Brad Gullickson @MouthDork & Lisa Gullickson @sidewalksiren . Send us your Words of Affirmation by leaving us a 5-Star
Thu, November 11, 2021
CBCC Creator Corner: Mark Waid on The History of Science Fiction
Let's talk science fiction. And let's talk about it with Mark Waid. Wait, what? Oh yes, this episode is a very special and wild Creator Corner conversation. We sit down with the Humanoids Publisher (and writer behind Kingdom Come , Justice League : The Tower of Babel , Fantastic Four , Daredevil , Black Widow - AHHHHHHH! So Many!) to discuss their new graphic novel adventure, The History of Science Fiction . Waid considers this comic by Xavier Dollo and Djibril Morissette-Phan "the crown jewel" produced in his time as Humanoids Publisher. Why? Well, we get into it. The comic is no dusty text; it's an exciting exploration of this beautiful genre that was once considered pop culture trash. Dollo and Morissette-Phan dig into its history, making the many sci-fi creators and their creations characters within their narrative, and it's a stunning achievement. The History of Science Fiction also serves as this beautiful excuse to talk with Waid about the genre itself. The influences it has had on him and where he considers his own work rests within it. This discussion is a new favorite (it seems like we say that every other week), and we think you'll grab a lot from it. And, yes, we do talk about Taika Waititi taking on The Incal . The History of Science Fiction will publish on November 23rd. Pre-order your copy at your favorite comic shop, or click HERE . Mark Waid can be found on Twitter HERE , on Instagram HERE , and on his website HERE . Be sure to follow the podcast on Facebook , on Instagram , and on Twitter @CBCCPodcast , and you can follow hosts Brad Gullickson @MouthDork & Lisa Gullickson @sidewalksiren . Send us your Words of Affirmation by leaving us a 5-Star Review on Apple Podcasts . SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY JOINING OUR PATREON COMMUNITY . Continue your conversation with CBCC by hopping over to our website where we have reviews, essays, and numerous other interviews with comic book creators, including Jeffrey Brown discussing his new Batman and Robin and Howard OGN. Podcast logo by Aaron Prescott @acoolhandfluke , podcast banner art by
Sun, October 31, 2021
CBCC Creator Corner: Douglas Wolk on All of the Marvels
Author Douglas Wolk is no mere mortal. He's done what few, if any, have dared to do. Wolk read every Marvel superhero comic, all 27,000+, and compiled what he learned from this massive endeavor into his own epic tome, All of the Marvels . His book is a must-read for all comic book maniacs, and it was an absolute honor to chat with him about this grand experiment and discuss the life lessons he's learned as a result. For many, comics appear as an impenetrable mountain. Where do you begin? Who's this character? What's this a reference toward? Wolk reveals that there is no good place to start and that embracing the not-knowing is where the true joy of the endeavor resides. Not only that, but when you read enough superhero comics, your notions of good and bad start to blur. What was once seen as dreadful becomes essential twenty years down the road. And even horrible comics contain tasty morsels. All of the Marvels is now available wherever fine books or comics are sold. But if you need a little extra help to put a copy in your hand, you can order the book HERE . You can find Douglas Wolk on Twitter HERE , and on Instagram HERE , and you can keep up to date on his work by visiting his Website HERE . Also, Wolk hosts the podcast Voice of Latveria , which you can find by clicking HERE . Be sure to follow the podcast on Facebook , on Instagram , and on Twitter @CBCCPodcast , and you can follow hosts Brad Gullickson @MouthDork & Lisa Gullickson @sidewalksiren . Send us your Words of Affirmation by leaving us a 5-Star Review on Apple Podcasts . SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY JOINING OUR PATREON COMMUNITY . Continue your conversation with CBCC by hopping over to our website where we have reviews, essays, and numerous interviews with comic book creators. Podcast logo by Aaron Prescott @acoolhandfluke , podcast banner art by @Karen_XmenFan .
Wed, October 27, 2021
Comic Book Couples Conning: Baltimore Comic-Con 2021
After two years, we returned to the Baltimore Comic-Con and it was everything we needed it to be. We saw some friends, we met new friends. We bought some old comics, we bought some new comics. And, yeah, we stood in some lines, but as you should know, we love lines! Not only that, we were able to meet up with comic book creators Kat Calamia and Phil Falco and talk to them in person, having just spoken to them via Zencastr, about their new Kickstarter project, Slice of Life ! In this week's episode, you'll be able to hear that conversation in full, as well as a rundown of our experience at our first-ever pandemic comic-con. Was it weird? Yeah. Was it weirder than any other con experience? Not really. We answer your questions and consider our comic-con future. And yes, there will be a comic-con future, and we're stoked about it. Make sure you visit Kat Calamia and Phil Falco's Kickstarter page for Slice of Life . We've already backed the project (gotta get that Yuriko plush doll)! You can also find Kat on Twitter HERE and Instagram HERE . You can find Phil on Twitter HERE and Instagram HERE . To stay up to date on all things Baltimore Comic-Con, hit up their website HERE . It's truly one of the best COMIC BOOK conventions around. Be sure to follow the podcast on Facebook , on Instagram , and on Twitter @CBCCPodcast , and you can follow hosts Brad Gullickson @MouthDork & Lisa Gullickson @sidewalksiren . Send us your Words of Affirmation by leaving us a 5-Star Review on Apple Podcasts . SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY JOINING OUR PATREON COMMUNITY . Continue your conversation with CBCC by hopping over to our website where we have reviews, essays, and numerous interviews with comic book creators. Podcast logo by Aaron Prescott @acoolhandfluke , podcast banner art by @Karen_XmenFan .
Mon, October 18, 2021
CBCC 74: Dinah & Ollie: Green Arrow - Quiver
With Green Arrow : Quiver , Kevin Smith and Phil Hester resurrect the Emerald Archer in a fantastical fashion, forcing Oliver Queen and Dinah Lance to stare directly into the abyss that is their relationship. This epic comic book series goes a long way in celebrating everything we love and love-to-loathe about these two characters, and it makes for one of our best couple sessions so far. Helping us sort through the romantic turmoil is love expert Megan Lundgren and her self-help guide Relationship Book for New Couples : Proven Strategies to Nurture Your Connection and Build a Long-Lasting Bond . Don't forget to join our Green Arrow/Black Canary conversation from the beginning with Sessions 71 and 72: CBCC 71: Denny O'Neil's Justice League of America CBCC 72: Mike Grell's The Longbow Hunters Also, don't forget to listen to our interview with Kevin Smith's cohort Jason Mewes, recorded during the 2019 San Diego Comic-Con. Issues discussed this week: Green Arrow volume 3 issues 1 - 15, published by DC Comics between February 2001 and July 2002. They were written by Kevin Smith, penciled by Phil Hester, inked by Ande Parks, colored by Guy Major and James Sinclair, lettered by Sean Konot, and feature covers by Matt Wagner. Be sure to follow the podcast on Facebook , on Instagram , and on Twitter @CBCCPodcast , and you can follow hosts Brad Gullickson @MouthDork & Lisa Gullickson @sidewalksiren . Send us your Words of Affirmation by leaving us a 5-Star Review on Apple Podcasts . SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY JOINING OUR PATREON COMMUNITY . Continue your conversation with CBCC by hopping over to our website where we have reviews, essays, and numerous interviews with comic book creators. Podcast logo by Aaron Prescott @acoolhandfluke , podcast banner art by @Karen_XmenFan .
Wed, October 06, 2021
Patreon Preview: Reading Sandman for the First Time
Neil Gaiman's Sandman is one of the most highly regarded epics in comics. It seems like everyone's already read it, but nope! Not us! Over on our Patreon, we've decided to finally tackle the DC Comics masterpiece one issue at a time. That's right, 75 issues, 75 episodes! And we want to make sure that all of our listeners get a chance to jump on board this massive adventure. This week mark's the one-year anniversary of our Patreon feed. We're extremely proud of the community we've built around Comic Book Couples Counseling , and these folks help us keep this party going. From their brains have sprung some of our strangest ideas, and we'll be eternally grateful. If you're intrigued by this gargantuan CBCC Sandman project, please consider supporting us by JOINING OUR PATREON COMMUNITY . Sandman #1 was published by DC Comics in November 1988. The comic is written by Neil Gaiman, illustrated by Sam Kieth & Mike Dringenberg, lettered by Todd Klein, colored by Daniel Vozzo, assistant edited by Art Young, edited by Karen Berger, and features a cover by Dave McKean. Be sure to follow the podcast on Facebook , on Instagram , and on Twitter @CBCCPodcast , and you can follow hosts Brad Gullickson @MouthDork & Lisa Gullickson @sidewalksiren . Send us your Words of Affirmation by leaving us a 5-Star Review on Apple Podcasts . Podcast logo by Aaron Prescott @acoolhandfluke , podcast banner art by @Karen_XmenFan .
Wed, September 29, 2021
CBCC 73: J‘onn J‘onzz & M‘yri‘ah J‘onzz - Martian Manhunter: Identity
Martian Manhunter! The glue that holds the Justice League together! But before that can ever happen, the last Martian known as J'onn J'onzz must come to terms with his own shameful history and the horrendous loss of his beloved M'yri'ah and daughter K'hym. Helping us confront such tremendous sorrow is Dr. Katherine Shear and The Center for Complicated Grief and their article, " H.E.A.L.I.N.G. Milestones: What To Expect from Grief ." We interrupt our regularly scheduled program to partake in an epic podcast event - Unite the Seven. That's right, seven Justice League members, seven episodes. We got Martian Manhunter, but we encourage you to explore the other shows featuring unique spins on these iconic characters. Comic Book Keepers on The Flash First Issue Club on Aquaman The Oblivion Bar on Superman The F'N Nerds on Green Arrow The Short Box on Green Lantern The Wednesday Pull List on Batman Issues covered in this episode: Martian Manhunter Volume 5, issues 1 - 12, published by DC Comics between February 2019 and April 2020. It’s written by Steve Orlando, illustrated by Riley Rossmo, colored by Ivan Plascencia, and lettered by Deron Bennett. Be sure to follow the podcast on Facebook , on Instagram , and on Twitter @CBCCPodcast , and you can follow hosts Brad Gullickson @MouthDork & Lisa Gullickson @sidewalksiren . Send us your Words of Affirmation by leaving us a 5-Star Review on Apple Podcasts . SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY JOINING OUR PATREON COMMUNITY . Podcast logo by Aaron Prescott @acoolhandfluke , podcast banner art by @Karen_XmenFan .
Fri, September 17, 2021
CBCC 72: Dinah & Ollie - The Longbow Hunters
When discussing Green Arrow and Black Canary, sooner or later, you must come to The Longbow Hunters . The 1987 three-issue prestige format series from DC Comics and Mike Grell attempted to pull Oliver Queen and Dinah Lance from the fanciful world of spandex and capes and drop them into the gritty reality of Seattle Washington. No more trick arrows, no more maniacal superpowered maniacs. It's time for "unspeakable violence" from all parties. The Longbow Hunters finds Oliver Queen facing a midlife crisis while Dinah Lance feels as self-confident as she ever has. When Ollie desires children, and Dinah pulls away, can the two recover from such opposing values? We discuss using Megan Lundgren's Relationship Book for New Couples : Proven Strategies to Nurture Your Connection and Build and Long-Lasting Bond as our self-help guide. To play along, click on over to our Shared Values page , and explore what human values mean the most to yourself as well as your partner. Then, also consider, what values mean the most to Oliver and Dianh. Do they share enough to make this partnership work? Comics covered in this episode: The Longbow Hunters # 1 - 3, published by DC Comics between August and October of 1987. They’re written and illustrated by Mike Grell, colored by Julia Lacquement, and lettered by Ken Bruzenak. Be sure to follow the podcast on Facebook , on Instagram , and on Twitter @CBCCPodcast , and you can follow hosts Brad Gullickson @MouthDork & Lisa Gullickson @sidewalksiren . Send us your Words of Affirmation by leaving us a 5-Star Review on Apple Podcasts . SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY JOINING OUR PATREON COMMUNITY . Podcast logo by Aaron Prescott @acoolhandfluke , podcast banner art by @Karen_XmenFan .
Sun, September 05, 2021
CBCC 71: Dinah & Ollie - Justice League of America
Some couples have bumpy starts, but Dinah Drake Lance and Oliver Queen put anyone's awkward first encounters to shame. Hailing from two separate universes and with one dead husband lying between them, Black Canary and Green Arrow require some serious me-time before securing their romantic solidarity, but that doesn't stop Ollie from making his move while poor Larry Lance is barely cold in the ground. We begin our four-episode series investigating the Black Canary/Green Arrow romance by exploring their "meet-cute," which is anything but. Writer Denny O'Neil transformed the two golden-age backup blahs into two bronze-age must-haves, elevating their interior lives into grand adventures equally as compelling as any supervillain fist-fight. Aiding our understanding of Dinah and Ollie's cumbersome bond is our new love expert, Megan Lundgren, and her self-help guide, Relationship Book for New Couples: Proven Strategies to Nurture Your Connection and Build a Long Lasting Bond . Issues covered in this episode: Justice League of America 74 - 75 and 78 - 79, published by DC Comics between September 1969 - March 1970, as well as Green Lantern / Green Arrow 78 published in July of 1970. All the comics are written by the late great Denny O’Neil, and they’re penciled by Dick Dillin and Neal Adams, inked by Sid Greene, Joe Giella, and Frank Giacoia, and lettered by John Costanza. Be sure to follow the podcast on Facebook , on Instagram , and on Twitter @CBCCPodcast , and you can follow hosts Brad Gullickson @MouthDork & Lisa Gullickson @sidewalksiren . Send us your Words of Affirmation by leaving us a 5-Star Review on Apple Podcasts . SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY JOINING OUR PATREON COMMUNITY . Podcast logo by Aaron Prescott @acoolhandfluke , podcast banner art by @Karen_XmenFan .
Tue, August 24, 2021
The Fantastic Four 60th Anniversary Party Special
August 8th, 2021, The Fantastic Four celebrated their 60th Anniversary, and we're pulling out the red carpet and setting a birthday cake ablaze in their honor. And we're not partying alone; we've invited some of our bestest comic book creator friends over to the Love Nest to help champion Marvel's First Family. On this week's show, we have Fantastic Four : Grand Design cartoonist Tom Scioli (back on the show), Marvel's Executive Editor and Senior Vice President, Tom Brevoort, Stan and Jack comic creator Pete Doree, superstar writer/artist Daniel Warren Johnson, and Extreme Carnage scribe Clay McLeod Chapman. We love the Fantastic Four, but it was a journey to reach that love. And it was a privilege to discuss Jack Kirby and Stan Lee's milestone comic book with these creators, and they helped us better appreciate the FF's role within the industry and the culture. Send our guests some love by tracking down their work via their social media accounts You can find Tom Brevoort on Twitter HERE , on Instagram HERE , and over on his website HERE . Follow Clay McLeod Chapman on Twitter HERE , on Instagram HERE , and visit his website HERE . Follow Pete Doree on Twitter HERE , on Instagram HERE , and visit his website HERE . Daniel Warren Johnson is located on Twitter HERE , on Instagram HERE , and on his website HERE . And make sure to follow Tom Scioli on Twitter HERE , on Instagram HERE , and on Patreon HERE . Our CBCC Sue & Reed episodes: 1 - The Fantastic Four #1 - 6 2 - The Fantastic Four Wedding 3 - Fantastic Four: Civil War 4 - Fantastic Four: Marvel NOW! Our two previous Fantastic Four related interviews: 1 - <a href='http
Mon, August 16, 2021
CBCC 70: Scott & Jean - A What If Wedding Album
Are Scott Summers and Jean Grey of the Uncanny X-Men meant to be? Are any of us? Is true love possible? We return to the comic book couple that started it all for us, Cyclops and Marvel Girl/Phoenix as experienced in "A What If Wedding Album." Oh, and is that Wolverine waiting in the wings? You're damn right. Snikt Snikt, Bang Bang. And if we're returning to Scott and Jean that means we must also return to Gary Chapman and The Five Love Languages: The Secret to Love That Lasts . We consider the Love Languages of all parties and how they push these characters to make different choices from their Marvel 616 counterparts. The Issue Covered in the Episode: "What If..." Volume 2 No. 60, published by Marvel Comics in April 1994. The comic is written by Kurt Busiek, penciled by Ron Randall, inked by Art Nichols, colored by Bob Sharen, and lettered by Janice Chiang. If you have not listened to our previous five episodes on Scott and Jean you can find them here: - The Dark Phoenix Saga--> https://bit.ly/CBCCFirstEp - X-Factor--> https://bit.ly/CBCC2ndEpisode - The Adventures of Cyclops & Phoenix--> https://bit.ly/CBCC3rdEpisode - New X-Men--> https://bit.ly/MorrisonNewXmen - The Wedding--> https://bit.ly/CBCCXWedding Make sure that you read the new Roy Thomas interview discussing What If 's comic book origins over at ComicsXF . Start listening to Dear Watchers : A What If Podcast by clicking HERE . Read Lisa Gullickson's Comics Bookcase reviews by clicking HERE . Be sure to follow the podcast on Facebook , on Instagram , and Twitter @CBCCPodcast , and you can follow hosts Brad Gullickson @MouthDork & Lisa Gullickson @sidewalksiren . Send us your Words of Affirmation by leaving us a 5-Star Review on Apple Podcasts . SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY JOINING OUR PATREON COMMUNITY . Podcast logo by Aaron Prescott @acoolh
Sat, August 07, 2021
CBCC 69: Loki & Loki - Journey into Mystery
Are we capable of change? Kid Loki sure hopes so as Asgard explodes into flames in the climactic Journey Into Mystery storyline, "Everything Burns." While his past self literally infects his brain, taking the shape of the devilish magpie Ikol, Loki attempts to rectify his sins by making a few new ones. And in the telling, we come face to face with everything we love and hate about comics. Helping us unpack Loki's deceptive self-loathing strategy, we're using Ellen Michaud's "Twelve Ways to Forgive Yourself for a Past Mistake" found on Prevention.com . Issues covered in this episode: Journey into Mystery issues 642 - 645 and The Mighty Thor Volume 2, issues 18 - 22. They're scripted by Kieron Gillen and Matt Fraction, illustrated by Alan Davis, Carmine di Giandomenico, and Stephanie Hans, inked by Mark Farmer, Barry Kitson, Jay Leisten, and Hans, colored by Javier Rodriguez, Chris Sotomayor, Wil Quintana, and Hans, and lettered by VC's Joe Sabino and VC's Clayton Cowles. We also recommend reading Kieron Gillen's Tumblr post explaining why he ended Journey Into Mystery in the manner he chose. Find it by clicking HERE . Be sure to follow the podcast on Instagram and Twitter @CBCCPodcast , and you can follow hosts Brad Gullickson @MouthDork & Lisa Gullickson @sidewalksiren . SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY JOINING OUR PATREON COMMUNITY . Podcast logo by Aaron Prescott @acoolhandfluke , podcast banner art by @Karen_XmenFan .
Thu, July 29, 2021
CBCC Emergency Podcast Broadcast: Beta Ray Bill No. 5 -The Finale
Beta Ray Bill’s Final Fight with the fire demon Surtr is a knockdown, dragout brawl, but it’s those brutally contemplative final pages that really left us aching. On this week’s show, we’re calling an Emergency Podcast into session, so that we can discuss Daniel Warren Johnson’s final chapter in his Beta Ray Bill mini-series. It is everything we wanted it to be, despite it not at all being what we thought it would be. No spoilers here, but there will be plenty of spoilers found within the episode itself. After chatting with Johnson on last week’s show, we find ourselves chomping at the bit to chat with him again. And we will, someday, but today, we gotta reconcile with those last few panels. Did Beta Ray Bill achieve what he set out to achieve? And what did we learn as fans of this character? The issue discussed this week: Beta Ray Bill No. 5 “Ardent Star: Finale,” written and illustrated by Daniel Warren Johnson, colored by Mike Spicer, and lettered by VC’s Joe Sabino with Johnson additions. If you haven’t already, please listen to our Conversation with Daniel Warren Johnson regarding the first four Beta Ray Bill issues. You can find it HERE . Be sure to follow the podcast on Instagram and Twitter @CBCCPodcast , and you can follow hosts Brad Gullickson @MouthDork & Lisa Gullickson @sidewalksiren . SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY JOINING OUR PATREON COMMUNITY . Podcast logo by Aaron Prescott @acoolhandfluke , podcast banner art by @Karen_XmenFan .
Fri, July 23, 2021
Creator Corner: Daniel Warren Johnson on Beta Ray Bill
We're casting off Thor's shadow this week as we chat with Daniel Warren Johnson about Beta Ray Bill , the five-issue mini-series from Marvel Comics that reaches its epic conclusion this Wednesday. As is already well documented on this podcast, we're obsessive maniacs regarding Johnson's comics. We think Beta Ray Bill might be his finest achievement yet, which is crazy to say considering the obvious genius that is Murder Falcon and Wonder Woman : Dead Earth . We asked Johnson to help us wade through Beta Ray Bill's tormented psychology for this week's Creator Corner conversation. The cartoonist happily obliged us as we rooted around Bill's deep-seated frustrations and complicated relationship with Lady Sif and Asgard. You might be surprised by what we uncover. Issues discussed this week: Beta Ray Bill 1 - 4 (we're still waiting on 5), written and illustrated by Johnson, colored by Mike Spicer, and lettered by Johnson and VC's Joe Sabino. You can listen to our Best Comics of 2020 , featuring Wonder Woman : Dead Earth HERE . You can listen to our Best Comics of 2019 , featuring Murder Falcon HERE . Be sure to follow the podcast on Instagram and Twitter @CBCCPodcast , and you can follow hosts Brad Gullickson @MouthDork & Lisa Gullickson @sidewalksiren . SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY JOINING OUR PATREON COMMUNITY . Podcast logo by Aaron Prescott @acoolhandfluke , podcast banner art by @Karen_XmenFan .
Sat, July 17, 2021
CBCC Celebration: Richard Donner's Superman - The Movie
Richard Donner is gone, but his films and their impact on the culture remain. We could not let his passing occur without taking a moment to celebrate the director who gave us so many incredible stories, including the film that ushered in a new era of "serious" comic book entertainment and kickstarted our current cinematic landscape, Superman : The Movie . To help us properly honor this utterly iconic adventure, we're joined by Clark Kent obsessive Shawn Eastridge of the Missing Frames podcast. Shawn is one of the biggest Superman fans around, and a few years ago, he actually had the pleasure of interviewing Donner about the Man of Steel. He brings tremendous joy and insight into this conversation, and it was a giddy thrill to chat with him. Please follow Missing Frames over at The Nerd Party network , and track Shawn down via his Twitter handle @YayShawndorman . And if you want to hear Shawn's conversation with Richard Donner, you can do so by clicking HERE . Be sure to follow the podcast on Instagram and Twitter @CBCCPodcast , and you can follow hosts Brad Gullickson @MouthDork & Lisa Gullickson @sidewalksiren . SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY JOINING OUR PATREON COMMUNITY . Podcast logo by Aaron Prescott @acoolhandfluke , podcast banner art by @Karen_XmenFan .
Thu, July 08, 2021
CBCC 68: Reed & Sue - Fantastic Four Marvel NOW!
Welcome to National Lampoon's Fantastic Four , aka the rebooted Marvel NOW! For our final episode delving into the romance between Reed Richards and Sue Richards, we're going on a cosmic road trip and unpacking all sixteen issues of FF volume four. Did you think tensions were tight during Civil War ? Oh, you ain't seen nothing yet. As we've done for every FF episode, we're using Gretchen Rubin's The Four Tendencies: The Indispensable Personality Profiles That Reveal How To Make Your Life Better (and Other People's Lives Better, Too) as our relationship guide. We nailed Reed & Sue's Tendencies in our first FF episode , but have they finally shifted in this final arc? Maaaaybe. This week's episode also opens by celebrating the life and work of Richard Donner, the filmmaker who helped bring Superman, Tales from the Crypt , and the X-Men to the big screen. If you want to listen to our friend Shawn's interview with the director, hop over to the Missing Frames podcast on the Nerd Party network . Issues covered in this episode: Fantastic Four Volume 4, issues 1 - 16, published between November 2012 and January 2014. They're written by Matt Fraction, Christopher Sebela, Karl Kesel & Lee Allred, penciled by Mark Bagley, Raffaele Ienco, & Joe Quinones, inked by Mark Farmer, Mark Morales, Andrew Hennessy, Joe Rubinstein, & Mike Allred, colored by Paul Mounts, Wil Quintana, Edgar Delgado, Rain Beredo, Guru Efx, & Laura Allred, and lettered by Clayton Cowles. Fantastic Four #4 variant cover by Terry Dodson & Rachel Dodson. Be sure to follow the podcast on Instagram and Twitter @CBCCPodcast , and you can follow hosts Brad Gullickson @MouthDork & Lisa Gullickson @sidewalksiren . SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY JOINING OUR PATREON COMMUNITY . Podcast logo by Aaron Prescott @acoolhandfluke , podcast banner art by @Karen_XmenFan .
Sat, June 26, 2021
Patreon Preview: Loki & Loki in Loki Episode 3 - Lamentis
Sometimes you gotta embrace the Loki within. This week we're playing trickster, sharing a Patreon episode in our main feed because we had too much dang fun recording it. Are you all caught up on the God of Mischief's Disney+ series? No? Well, you better get caught up as we're going full-spoilers on Episode 3, "Lamentis." We're deeply enjoying this latest installment in the MCU, and this episode in particular truly speaks to what we do here on Comic Book Couples Counseling . We're all about relationships, and on Lamentis-1, Loki strikes up one of the most unique ones we've seen in a superhero setting. If you enjoy this episode, please consider supporting us by joining our Patreon. We've built an incredible community of listeners over there, and at the $1 level, you will immediately have access to over 50 extra episodes. Come see what's up over at www.patreon/cbccpodcast . After you join, you can celebrate with a mighty rendition of " Jeg Saler Min Ganger ." Seriously, how in love with Tom Hiddleston were you after that drunken revalry? So in love, right? Be sure to follow the podcast on Instagram and Twitter @CBCCPodcast , and you can follow hosts Brad Gullickson @MouthDork & Lisa Gullickson @sidewalksiren . And one more time with feeling: SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY JOINING OUR PATREON COMMUNITY . Thanks to our Patrons, we've already upgraded some much-needed hardware and software. They're making this show happen at this point. Podcast logo by Aaron Prescott @acoolhandfluke , podcast banner art by @Karen_XmenFan .
Fri, June 18, 2021
Creator Corner: A TKO Studios Spectacular!
TKO Studios is the Criterion Collection of comic books. Every release is a blind-buy, and we try not to miss a one. As such, it's an incredible delight to have Editor-In-Chief Sebastian Girner and writer/artist Juni Ba on the show this week. TKO is making its first serious move into the Young Adult (YA) market with three new graphic novels: Djeliya , Scales and Scoundrels Book 1: Where Dragons Wander , and Scales and Scoundrels Book 2: The Festival of Life . All three are currently available, and we happily slap our CBCC seal of approval on them. Djeliya is the result of what happens when Cartoon Network seeps into a young boy from Senegal. It's a rich, gorgeous Afro-fantasy adventure that at once feels very familiar while also operating as an entirely original creation. In the future, you'll want to claim yourself as one of Ba's first fans. Get on the ground floor of this masterpiece today. Girner's Scales and Scoundrels collections are also fantasy quest adventures but of a totally different variety. They are the antidote to grimdark Game of Thrones wannabes. Girner and artist Galaad craft a warm, sunny saga that contains all the tropes you want from the genre but also a bright optimism sorely missing these days. Whether you've read the comics already or not, you're going to have a good time with this week's Creator Corner conversations. These two artists are stirring quality content, and the thought they bring to their stories is incredibly inspiring. You'll want to follow Sebastian Girner on Twitter HERE , as well as Juni Ba HERE . And, of course, purchase your copies of Djeliya and Scales and Scoundrels via TKO Studios' website HERE . Also, if you want to own Lisa Gullickson's first published piece of art, pre-order Weapon Echh over at 100% Comics HERE . Don't miss out on this parody tribute to BWS because it's Comic Book Couples Counseling history-in-the-making. Follow the podcast on Instagram and Twitter @CBCCPodcast , and you can follow hosts Brad Gullickson @MouthDork & Lisa Gullickson @sidewalksiren . SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY JOINING OUR PATREON COMMUNITY . Podcast logo by Aaron Prescott @acoolhandfluke , podcast banner art by @Karen_XmenFan .
Thu, June 10, 2021
CBCC 67/100: Reed & Sue - Civil War
We did it! 100 Episodes! And we're celebrating by smashing headfirst into the greatest fight to nearly tear the Fantastic Four apart - CIVIL WAR ! Iron Man and Captain America are punching each other in the streets as Reed Richards and Sue Richards fall on opposite sides of the Superhuman Registration Act. With murderous Thor clones and Negative Zone prisons between them, how can this happily married couple ever hope to remain together? And, frankly, should they? Our third episode exploring Reed and Sue as a couple hits DEFCON-4. To help us sort through the catastrophe, we turn to Gretchen Rubin and her self-help book, The Four Tendencies . Who's an Upholder? Who's an Obliger? Can they keep it together when their values fly in the face of each other? We get into it. As an added 100 Episode Bonus, this week, we're also including a segment from our radical conversation with writers Josh Stafford and Howard Wong discussing their new kinda-sorta zombie series, Damned , Cursed Children . We frickin love this comic and we want all of you to love it too. Please seek it out via Source Point Press . And before you hit play on this momentous episode, be sure to send some extra special love to Josh Cornillon, the brilliant artist who crafted our 100th Episode's show poster. Visit their website HERE . Follow them on Twitter HERE . Follow them on Instagram HERE . The issue covered in this episode: Fantastic Four 538 - 543, written by J. Michael Straczynski and Dwayne McDuffie, penciled by Mike McKone, inked by Andy Lanning, Kris Justice, and Cam Smith, colored by Paul Mounts, lettered by Rus Wooten, and featuring covers by Adi Granov of Iron Man : Extremis fame. Be sure to follow the podcast on Instagram and Twitter @CBCCPodcast , and you can follow hosts Brad Gullickson @MouthDork & Lisa Gullickson @sidewalksiren . SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY JOINING OUR PATREON COMMUNITY . Podcast logo by Aaron Prescott @acoolhandfluke , podcast banner art by @Karen_XmenFan .
Sat, May 29, 2021
CBCC 66: Reed & Sue - The Fantastic Four Wedding
The biggest event in Fantastic Four history is also the biggest event in Marvel History - the Wedding of Reed Richards & Sue Storm. Nearly every hero in Marvel Comics appears, and thanks to Doctor Doom and his emotion-manipulator, the same thing can be said for the villains. But on this week's episode, we're not discussing Fantastic Four Annual No. 3 - no, we're digging into Fantastic Four : The Wedding Anniversary Special . This comic is an exceptional and essential read for Reed & Sue fans. The happy couple are confronted by every version of themselves throughout their timeline. In one book, we get to see them happy, sad, mad, rad, and most importantly, together. We're also using Gretchen Rubin's The Four Tendencies as our relationship guide, helping us figure out why these two are so compatible. Or not? If you missed out on part one of our Reed & Sue chat, be sure to catch up on The Fantastic Four's original first six issues and our conversation by clicking HERE . The issue covered in this episode: "Fantastic Four: The Wedding Special" Volume 1, No. 1, written by Karl Kesel, penciled by Drew Johnson, inked by Kesel, Drew Geraci, & Andrew Hennessy, colored by Morry Hollowell, and lettered by Dave Lanphear. Cover by Gene Ha. Be sure to follow the podcast on Instagram and Twitter @CBCCPodcast , and you can follow hosts Brad Gullickson @MouthDork & Lisa Gullickson @sidewalksiren . SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY JOINING OUR PATREON COMMUNITY . Podcast logo by Aaron Prescott @acoolhandfluke , podcast banner art by @Karen_XmenFan .
Mon, May 17, 2021
Creator Corner: Tony Cliff & Jordan Morris on Bubble
The apocalypse need not be scary when you've got your Scooby gang nearby. Bubble , the new graphic novel from First Second Books began its life as a narrative podcast and now thrives within the four-color form thanks to creator Jordan Morris, his co-writer Sarah Morgan, artist Tony Cliff, and colorist Natalie Riess. The comic is a whip-smart and hilarious spin through a dystopian future where the gig economy has run amuck. Microbrewery hipsters are bad enough but toss in a few rampaging imps and their hops-hot-takes don't taste as sour as they once did. We're downright giddy to have both Tony Cliff and Jordan Morris on this show this week. We chat about the adaptation process, but more importantly, we get into the relationships of these characters. And yeah, we force Jordan and Tony to partake in one of our relationship quizzes. And they bring their Cosmo game hard. If you want to hear an extended cut of this interview, join our Patreon community by clicking HERE . There, Jordan and Tony discuss what they've been watching, and name their OTP comic book couples. Bubble hits bookstores on July 13th. If you're like us, you're already buying all the First Second releases, but if you need a link for more info on where to score your copy, click HERE . You can track down Jordan via his Twitter feed HERE or his new Instagram account HERE . For all things Tony Cliff, visit his website HERE . Don't forget to follow us on Twitter @CBCCPodcast , and you can follow hosts Brad Gullickson @MouthDork & Lisa Gullickson @sidewalksiren . Podcast logo by Aaron Prescott @acoolhandfluke , podcast banner art by @Karen_XmenFan .
Mon, May 10, 2021
CBCC 65: Reed & Sue - The Fantastic Four
The Fantastic Four! The World's Greatest Comic Magazine! And are Reed Richards and Sue Storm the world's greatest comic book couple? Well, we'll just have to see about that. But, it is definitely true that we've wanted to cover these two cosmic crusaders for quite some time, and we're incredibly excited to bring them into session with this week's episode. The Marvel Comics Universe begins with these first six issues. It's not only comic book history; it's pop culture history. Every comic book fan should put their eyes upon these stories, and don't worry; these comics are not your veggies. It's all dessert, baby! To help us understand Reed and Sue's romance, we're returning to Gretchen Rubin and using her book, "The Four Tendencies: The Indispensable Personality Profiles That Reveal How To Make Your Life Better (and Other People's Lives Better, Too). If you want to decipher your own Tendency, you can do so by taking Rubin's quiz HERE . Issues covered in this episode: "The Fantastic Four" Vol. 1 issues 1 - 6 penciled & plotted by Jack Kirby, written by Stan Lee, inked by George Klein, Christopher Rule, Sol Brodsky, Joe Sinnott, & Dick Ayers, colored by Stan Goldberg, and lettered by Artie Simek & John Duffy. Listen to our FREE Patreon episode celebrating Fantastic Four : The Rise of the Silver Surfer by clicking HERE . Join our Patreon & listen to Brad take The Four Tendencies quiz for the first time by clicking HERE . Listen to our interview with Jack Kirby biographer Tom Scioli by clicking HERE . Listen to our interview with Stan Lee biographer Abraham Riesman by clicking HERE . Be sure to follow the podcast on Instagram and Twitter @CBCCPodcast , and you can follow hosts Brad Gullickson @MouthDork & Lisa Gullickson @sidewalksiren . Podcast logo by Aaron Prescott @acoolhandfluke , podcast banner art by @Karen_XmenFan .
Thu, April 29, 2021
Creator Corner: Alex de Campi on Full Tilt Boogie
Buckle up! Alex de Campi jumps into our Creator Corner to discuss her galactic gig economy magnum opus, Full Tilt Boogie ! The writer behind Dracula Motherf**ker , Bad Girls , and Archie vs. Predator (1 & 2) puts her spin on the sci-fi found family, and while you'll recognize a few of the trappings, we promise that you've never experienced a tale quite like this one. How many times do we utter the word "masterpiece" during this episode? Quite a few. While we were reading Full Tilt Boogie , we were both overcome with "the tingles." This comic is special, and we expect it to blow up into something even grander. De Campi is already hard at work with her collaborator Eduardo Ocaña on the Full Tilt Boogie follow-up. We need it now. But first, you have to buy this comic. Full Tilt Boogie is set for release in the States on May 11th from 2000 AD. You can find Alex de Campi on Twitter HERE and Instagram HERE . You can also tack her work through her website by clicking HERE . Be sure to follow the podcast on Instagram and Twitter @CBCCPodcast , and you can follow hosts Brad Gullickson @MouthDork & Lisa Gullickson @sidewalksiren . Podcast logo by Aaron Prescott @acoolhandfluke , podcast banner art by @Karen_XmenFan .
Thu, April 22, 2021
Creator Corner: Karl Stevens on Penny: A Graphic Memoir
Give us all the cat comics! We dig them and we crave them; they’re our catnip. That’s why we were incredibly excited to learn about the new feline adventure memoir Penny by graphic novelist and painter Karl Stevens. The comic hits shelves this May the 4th from Chronicle Books, and we’re encouraging all our listeners to snatch it up. As you will hear in this conversation, Stevens looks into the mind of his adorable house cat and discovers a mind on fire. Penny may be imprisoned within her apartment walls, but there’s no containing her imagination. The world around her is a confusing and wondrous realm, and through her, we attempt some kind of understanding for our own place in it. Stevens explains how this comic came to be and where it’s going from here. Yes, you’ve just met Penny, but hopefully, you won’t be rid of her for quite some time. Penny, like the best comic book characters, can potentially explore numerous genres and ideas, and with one sequel already in progress, we’re demanding many more to come. Find Penny: A Graphic Memoir wherever fine comics are sold, and learn more by clicking HERE. You can find Karl Stevens on Twitter HERE , and on Instagram HERE . Be sure to follow the podcast on Instagram and Twitter @CBCCPodcast , and you can follow hosts Brad Gullickson @MouthDork & Lisa Gullickson @sidewalksiren . SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY JOINING OUR PATREON COMMUNITY . Podcast logo by Aaron Prescott @acoolhandfluke , podcast banner art by @Karen_XmenFan .
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