Jim Viscardi

Let's Talk Comics

A Visual Arts and Arts podcast Explicit

#139 in Visual Arts · 🇯🇵 #162 in Visual Arts · 🇺🇸

About the show

Comic creator interviews beamed directly into your ears. Learn the ins and out of the comics industry from those trying to break in, are already in, and have been in the business for a while. Host Jim Viscardi (VP of Business Development at Image Comics) has over 15 years of experience in the business and is your guide on this journey of inspiration, reflection and motivation for one of the greatest American art forms in history, comic books. Let's Talk Comics logo designed by Adam Barnhardt

Newest episodes

Alex Segura Talks THE FORGOTTEN FIVE and Getting the Band Back Together

Nov 13, 2026 46 min Video

Alex Segura joins Let's Talk Comics this week to talk about his path from working behind the scenes at DC and Archie to writing Secret Identity and his upcoming Image Comics series, THE FORGOTTEN FIVE. We start by catching up on our days doing PR across the street from each other, with Alex at DC and me at Marvel, and how much getting the word out about comics has changed since then. Alex also talks about how writing mystery novels after work helped him find his way into writing comics, and what finally made him ready to bet on himself and go freelance. Then, we get to THE FORGOTTEN FIVE, about a group of teenage outcasts who escape an organization that experimented on them, only to find themselves having to reunite as adults when the threat returns. Alex talks about building the series around two timelines and wanting to bring back the feeling that the superhero comics we grew up with could keep going forever. It's a fun one, enjoy!

Mirka Andolfo Talks MERCILESS and the Characters She Couldn't Leave Behind

Nov 6, 2026 46 min Video

Mirka Andolfo joins Let's Talk Comics this week to talk about her journey from growing up reading Disney comics in Naples to creating UNNATURAL, SWEET PAPRIKA, MERCY and of course her upcoming book - MERCILESS. We go through how breaking in as a colorist (and getting to work on her childhood favorite series) taught her what she needed to know about the business, and then how how sharing her art online helped her break into American comics. Mirka also explains how her stories often begin with a character sketch she can't stop drawing, and once getting those characters off the ground, what creating her own worlds means to her. Then, we get to MERCILESS, the sequel to MERCY that follows a grown-up Rory returning to the town she hoped to leave behind. She discusses why she knew there was more story to tell before finishing the original series, and what working with her collaborator Lidia Bolognini allows her to explore. And if you want to know what some of Mirka's favorite horror movies and video games are? This is the episode for you.

Tim Seeley Talks The Princess Murders and His Road to Image Comics

Nov 4, 2026 1 hr 2 min Video

This week on Let's Talk Comics, Tim Seeley joins the show to talk about how he got his parents to drive him from Wisconsin to Chicago to meet the Image Comics founders and how coming home with a Spawn shirt signed by Todd McFarlane made him know exactly where he wanted to make comics. We go through Tim's early days drawing G.I. Joe at Devil's Due and how a sick day spent watching slasher movies gave him the idea for Hack/Slash. He shares the one-sentence pitch he and Mike Norton used to sell Revival and explains how a box of sketches his mom saved put a superhero he'd invented as a kid into the pages of Local Man. Tim also gets into The Princess Murders, his new series with Local Man collaborator Tony Fleecs. Tim pitched Tony a fairy tale where the wicked stepsister and a fairy godmother have to solve a princess's murder. And yes, there are musical numbers. Tim is a creator full of stories, and you get some of them right here in this episode. Check it out, tell a friend and enjoy the ride.

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All episodes

Alex Segura Talks THE FORGOTTEN FIVE and Getting the Band Back Together

Nov 13, 2026 46 min Video

Mirka Andolfo Talks MERCILESS and the Characters She Couldn't Leave Behind

Nov 6, 2026 46 min Video

Tim Seeley Talks The Princess Murders and His Road to Image Comics

Nov 4, 2026 1 hr 2 min Video

Rob Liefeld Talks AVENGELYNE and Why Creator-Owned Comics Are Winning

Oct 6, 2026 1 hr 3 min Video

Rob Liefeld returns to Let's Talk Comics for a high octane chat about the return of AVENGELYNE, with artist Daniel Mainé. Rob explains why this was the right moment to reintroduce the fallen angel, how the new series explores faith, power and humanity, and why he wanted its violence and subject matter to push into firmly R-rated territory. He also shares the latest on AVENGELYNE's developing film adaptation and explains the story behind the book's polybagged NSFW cover. Rob also covers YOUNGBLOOD's return, the creation of BADROCK with Seth Damoose, the approaching 35th anniversary of Image Comics and the new generation of creators building their biggest work through creator-owned comics. It's always a fun ride when Rob joins the show, so buckle up and enjoy!

Daniel Warren Johnson Talks CHAINKATA and Leaving It All On The Table

Oct 1, 2026 1 hr 26 min Video

Superstar creator Daniel Warren Johnson joins the show this week to talk about his journey from art teacher to one of the most distinctive creators working in comics today. Daniel looks back at the early days of SPACE MULLET, the breakthrough that came with EXTREMITY, finding the emotional core of MURDER FALCON, and bringing his uncompromising approach to characters like Beta Ray Bill and Absolute Batman. He also opens up about creative block, the fear that he may only have a few stories left to tell, and knowing when a project simply is not worth doing unless he can do it his way. Then, Daniel goes deep on CHAINKATA, his new creator-owned science-fiction epic from Image Comics. He explains how the project nearly died, why DUNE brought it back to life, the painstaking process behind its distinctive painted space backgrounds, and why he turned down major opportunities to bring this story into the world. Plus: AEW wrestler Brody King's custom jacket, his unmonetized YouTube drawing streams, guitars, golf, Limp Bizkit, and much more. CHAINKATA #1 arrives at comic book shops on November 18.

Gary Frank Talks How GEIGER Changed Everything!

Sep 2, 2026 53 min Video

Gary Frank joins the show to celebrate the upcoming GEIGER #25 and discuss how one creator-owned project helped grow into Ghost Machine. Gary takes us back to his early days at Marvel UK, how he landed The Incredible Hulk, and the beginning of his almost 20 year working relationship with Geoff Johns. He also reveals the light-bulb moment that made him want to step away from exclusive contracts and create something he could truly call his own. The conversation digs into the creation and visual design of Geiger, how Ghost Machine came together, working with colorist Brad Anderson, and the surreal experience of seeing his characters become toys and merchandise. Gary also shares his evolving philosophy on comic-book storytelling and why clarity and immersion now matter more to him than creating a flashy individual page. Plus, we look ahead to GEIGER #25, the upcoming "Radioactive Revolution" storyline, and the very different dynamic between Tariq Geiger and Simon Pure.

Eliot Rahal & Mattia Monaco Talk The Wild Friendship at the Heart of CRIMES AGAINST NATURE

Aug 28, 2026 36 min Video

Writer Eliot Rahal and artist Mattia Monaco join the show to talk about CRIMES AGAINST NATURE, their new six-issue Image Comics series about a Hollywood animal trainer, his gorilla best friend, and a crime they didn't commit. Eliot and Mattia talk about how their partnership evolved from their first book together into a much more heartfelt collaboration. They also dig into balancing the book's premise with a genuinely emotional story about friendship, creating characters who communicate through sign language, and making readers care about an intentionally unlikable main character. Mattia also shows off a bunch of original art after years of working digitally, while Eliot explains the thinking behind the book's impossible-to-miss banana cover. It's 30 minutes talking about trusting your partner, taking ridiculous ideas completely seriously, and so much more.

Che Grayson Talks Exquisite Corpses: Fox Mask Killer & Why She Loves Tales From The Crypt

Aug 21, 2026 49 min Video

This week on Let's Talk Comics, writer and filmmaker Che Grayson joins the show to talk about putting one of EXQUISITE CORPSES' most intriguing killers directly into the spotlight, FOX MASK KILLER. Che talks about discovering comics while attending film school, finding a home in comics, breaking into the industry through BITCH PLANET: TRIPLE FEATURE, and how creator-owned comics offered the creative freedom they had been searching for. The two also cover how Che became part of the Corpse Crew, developing the first season of EXQUISITE CORPSES through a collaborative writers' room, and the moment Che realized there was a much larger story waiting beneath Fox Mask Killer's mask. EXQUISITE CORPSES: FOX MASK KILLER is a new five-issue miniseries with artist Adam Gorham, colorist Jordie Bellaire, and letterer Becca Carey that combines the action and mythology of JOHN WICK and KILL BILL with a dark Southern Gothic story. The series asks, can a legendary assassin get the one thing she may never be allowed to have? A way out. Che discusses writing the killer without turning her into a hero, building action around character, and so much more. Plus if you're wondering if you can read FOX MASK KILLER without having read EXQUISITE CORPSES. The answer is yes, and Che tells you why.

Darcy Van Poelgeest & Ian Bertram Talk Why THE KARMAN BLADE Had to Be Different

Aug 11, 2026 51 min Video

This week on Let's Talk Comics, Eisner Award-winning creators Darcy Van Poelgeest and Ian Bertram join the show to talk about their latest project together, THE KARMAN BLADE. The two talk about how one fateful email, almost ten years ago, turned into LITTLE BIRD and evolved into PRECIOUS METAL. They also cover how the trust the two of them built over their time together allowed their work to keep changing as it moves from script to art and beyond. Ian shows off some gorgeous original artwork while Darcy explains why THE KARMAN BLADE was designed to demand something from its readers. Plus the two dig into the books world, the sentient blade, the giant wolf, and why they wanted to make something that felt decidedly different.

Image Comics @ SDCC 2026 - The Future Of Comics

Aug 4, 2026 1 hr 1 min

Recorded live at San Diego Comic-Con, Jim Viscardi sits down with Doug Wagner, Michael Walsh, Tyler Boss, Curt Pires, and Jonathan Ball to talk about the all the fun projects they have coming out and their thoughts on being a creator in the industry. The panel digs into YUMI 00EX, EXQUISITE CORPSES, RASCAL RANDY, FIREBORN, LOST FANTASY, and THE EYE COLLECTOR. The creators also discuss the rise of horror comics, designing memorable monsters, building connected worlds, and how TikTok, YouTube, retailers, and online communities are changing the way readers discover new books. Plus, some fun new teases and the panel answers fan questions!

Image Comics @ SDCC 2026: Storytelling, Genre, and Crafting Unforgettable Comics

Aug 3, 2026 54 min

Recorded live at San Diego Comic-Con, Jim Viscardi brings together Geoff Johns, Jason Fabok, Chris Condon, Wes Craig and Tyler Kirkham for a wide-ranging conversation about storytelling, genre and the work that goes into creating unforgettable comics. Geoff Johns shares what's ahead for GEIGER, REDCOAT, their first crossover in RADIOACTIVE REVOLUTION, and FIRST GHOST while Jason Fabok jumped in for ROOK: EXODUS, including new ROOK: WARDENS one-shots. Chris Condon discusses working with Charlie Adlard on the slow-burn horror series OF THE EARTH and returning to Ambrose County for a new chapter of THAT TEXAS BLOOD (with Jacob Phillips). Wes Craig opens up about mapping the long journey of KAYA, while Tyler Kirkham explains how FINAL BOSS made the jump from comic book to video game. The conversation then turns to the craft itself. The creators talk about letting characters change their original plans, recognizing when an ending needs more space and why spectacle means very little if readers do not care about the people at the center of it. Enjoy!

Image Comics @ SDCC 2026: Artists Unleashed

Jul 31, 2026 54 min

Recorded live at San Diego Comic-Con, Jim Viscardi brings together Skottie Young, Daniel Warren Johnson, Ian Bertram, Caspar Wijngaard, Sanford Greene, and Sean Gordon Murphy for a wide-ranging conversation about making comics and developing an unmistakable artistic voice. The panel also offers discussions on I HATE FAIRYLAND, CHAINKATA, THE KARMAN BLADE, THE POWER FANTASY, BITTER ROOT BLACK AND WHITE, and THE LAST DRIVER. The artists discuss the work that shaped them, the difference between studying an influence and simply swiping from it, and how their lives away from the drawing board have changed the way they work. They also dig into character and creature design, balancing detail with clear storytelling, and why your style may really be a collection of all the mistakes you made while trying to draw like somebody else. If you're a creative, this episode is for you.

Image Comics @ SDCC 2026: Comics Characters Fans Will Love or Hate—or Love to Hate!

Jul 30, 2026 48 min

The next few episodes of Let's Talk Comics are going to sound a little different because we're coming to you live from San Diego Comic-Con! For the first panel in our SDCC series, Jim Viscardi is joined by Matt Rosenberg, Patrick Kindlon, John Layman, Rob Guillory, Dustin Nguyen, and Tony Fleecs for a conversation about creating comic book characters readers will love, hate, or love to hate. The group previews some of their latest Image Comics projects, including IF DESTRUCTION BE OUR LOT, REGICIDE, GHOST BRAWLER, CROWBOUND, and FERAL. They also discuss reuniting with longtime collaborators, hiding clues in the artwork, balancing humor with darker stories, and what happens when readers fall in love with characters they probably shouldn't. How quickly does a first issue need to define its characters? Does every terrible person deserve a redemption arc? And why does making readers laugh make it hurt so much more when everything goes wrong? Recorded live at San Diego Comic-Con 2026.

Iman Vellani Talks Turning Her Love of Comics Into CHACHU

Jul 8, 2026 47 min Video

This week on Let's Talk Comics, Iman Vellani joins the show to talk about her Image Comics debut, CHACHU, hitting shops everywhere August 5th. Iman has never been shy about how much she loves comics and now she is taking that love and putting it into her first creator-owned series. CHACHU was born from a whole lot of notes-app chicken scratch into something deeply personal. The series is a deeply personal coming-of-age noir, where as she went along writing it, realized how much introspection was happening at the same time. She goes in depth about the differences about approaching her work in film vs. what it takes to put a comic script together while also getting to know your collaborators (Marianna Ignazzi & Jordie Bellaire). She also gets honest about imposter syndrome, finding her own voice outside of Ms. Marvel and why she wanted the responsibility and risk of owning the story herself. Lots to take from this episode, so we hope you enjoy!

Trish Forstner Talks Feral #25 and How Stray Dogs Changed Her Life

Jul 2, 2026 1 hr 4 min Video

This week on Let's Talk Comics, Trish Forstner joins the show to celebrate FERAL hitting a landmark 25th issue and how the STRAY DOGS cast have played an important role in this current arc. Trish's entry into comics was actually through a combo BronyCon and doing covers for My Little Pony. From there, she met Tony Fleecs and learned sequential storytelling while working on STRAY DOGS. She shines a bit more light on how the team of her, Tony & Tone Rodriguez developed a creative process that operates more like an animation studio than a traditional comic book production. We also get into the massive success of STRAY DOGS and how it changed her life almost overnight, the difference between its psychological horror and the more in-your-face zombie violence of FERAL. And naturally we spend a bit of time on why FERAL #25 represents such a major moment for both series. Plus, Trish discusses studying under animation legend Don Bluth, learning how to draw blood and gore, hiding character relationships in the backgrounds of pages, why animals might be the ultimate storytelling cheat code, and the emotional experience of drawing readers' pets at conventions. FERAL #25 arrives July 29.

Seth Damoose Talks What It Takes To Take On BADROCK

Jun 19, 2026 35 min Video

On this episode of Let's Talk Comics, Jim Viscardi sits down with artist Seth Damoose to talk about his upcoming Image Comics series Badrock, created alongside legendary Youngblood creator Rob Liefeld. Seth is no stranger to Image Comics, having worked on Xenoholics with Joshua Williamson back in 2011, and now in 2026 he makes a return! How Seth and Rob came to working together is one heluva story. Basically, Seth took the concept of "Inktober" and put a Rob Liefeld twist on it with "Robtober." Seth would draw one Liefeld character a day in the month of October and it caught Liefeld's attention which ultimately led to drawing one of the most iconic characters in the Youngblood universe. We of course dive into breaking into comics, learning from rejection, manga influences, storytelling versus illustration, and what makes Badrock such a unique character to bring to life. We also discuss the emotional core behind the new series, the freedom of working Marvel-style scripts from Rob, classic comic cover homages, hidden Easter eggs, and why Badrock might be the perfect character for Seth's kinetic art style. Lots to learn in this one (especially if you're curious about zipatone). Don't miss it, and make sure to preorder BADROCK #1 from your local comic shop.

Liam Sharp Talks Building Worlds And The Art of Reinvention

Jun 5, 2026 1 hr 4 min Video

With decades of experience under his belt working in comics, Liam Sharp still feels a sense of wonder when bringing his creator owned world of Starhenge to life. In this episode of Let's Talk Comics, Liam joins the show for a conversation that spans his time in Darby, England, getting his start at Marvel UK in the early 90's to seeing the Image Revolution happen and then finally taking the chance on himself and doing the thing. Plus, Liam shares the story of turning down Oxford after landing an apprenticeship with legendary artist Don Lawrence, and how that set the course for his entire career. He learned that "being reliable matters more than being brilliant." Then the conversation moves to StarHenge: A Kiss for Atticus, the next chapter in Liam's ambitious creator-owned epic. There's a lot to unpack in this story and the two cover everything from how he made Merlin a science-fiction character, to how AI is a natural enemy of magic. StarHenge has become the project Liam has spent a lifetime preparing to make and even now, after nearly 40 years in comics, he still feels like he's only scratching the surface of what the medium can do. Get the paper and pen ready folks, you're going to be taking some serious notes.

THE EYE COLLECTOR Team Talks Cosmic Horror & The Monster Between Panels

May 28, 2026 57 min Video

Jonathan Ball and GMB Chomichuk join the show to dive deep into their upcoming Image Comics series THE EYE COLLECTOR. THE EYE COLLECTOR is a surreal cosmic horror story that has artist GMB Comichuk bending perspective and writer Jonathan Ball's storytelling in a way you haven't seen in comics in a while. This is a story that sat with Jonathan for a while (decades even!) and the path to where it is now, why every issue was designed to feel different, and how the two creators kept pushing each other to make the book stranger, scarier, and more ambitious with every chapter will make you immediately put this on your pull list. The group also dives into what it takes to create an iconic horror monster and why it's harder than it looks. Then we get into the nitty gritty, everything from horror pacing to page layouts, color theory, and everything in between. This is a book where the monster can literally reach across panels and manipulate the reader's point of view. Want to know how? You're just going to have to listen to find out. You know the deal, if you like what you've heard, leave a review on APPLE PODCASTS, or a rating on SPOTIFY Help us get the good comic book message out to the masses. The Eye Collector #1 hits comic shops June 24 from Image Comics.

TERMINAL Might Be Robert Kirkman's Wildest Superhero Book Yet (and we talk INVINCIBLE S4)

May 20, 2026 54 min Video

Robert Kirkman is back and is about to launch a brand-new superhero universe within the pages of his new Image Comics ongoing series, TERMINAL. On this episode we start with Invincible Season 4 and what it's like watching fan reactions while already deep into production on future seasons. Kirkman talks about expanding material from the comics for animation, and how characters unexpectedly blowing up with audiences (like Machine Head - now in the pages of CAPES) can lead to fun new moments. Then we dive deep into TERMINAL, Kirkman's new superhero universe with Joe Casey, Andy Kubert, David Finch, Arthur Adams, Dave McCaig, and Rus Wooton. Kirkman breaks down building a giant interconnected cast and why the book feels inspired by the energy of 90s X-Men comics. TERMINAL is a superhero comic that feels huge, messy, unpredictable, and bringing danger back to comics again. So much to dig into and its another insightful episode from one of the best to be doing it. Enjoy.

Inside the Return of That Texas Blood With Chris Condon & Jacob Phillips

May 5, 2026 50 min Video

Chris Condon and Jacob Phillips are back, and so is That Texas Blood. This episode of Let's Talk Comics kicks off a new format where we bring the full creative team on to break down one project from top to bottom. First up is the return of one of Image's best crime series with That Texas Blood #21. Hell is coming to Allison Ranch and we get into the nitty gritty right off the bat. Everything from what it took to revisit Ambrose County to why this arc is the biggest one yet. Chris and Jacob have been at this one for a while so they're finally excited to invite fans on the wild ride that is this critically acclaimed series. That Texas Blood #21 starts with a bit of a time jump, set against the backdrop of the Iraq War and Chris explains why that plays a key role in the story they're telling. Then Jacob breaks down the challenge of bringing a new level of action to the page without losing the grounded, lived-in feel the series is known for. That Texas Blood #21 is everything you'd expect from the team and then some! If you've been waiting for it to come back, this is the perfect place to jump in.

Charlie Adlard Talks Of The Earth and Longevity In Comics

Apr 23, 2026 1 hr 30 min

Charlie Adlard joins the show for a must listen episode with one of the greatest to ever do it. We get into how he broke into the industry and why building relationships and networking matter just as much to breaking in as the work itself. From there, we of course dig into the sixteen year stint he did on The Walking Dead, how his style evolved once he got on the book, how he maintained that pace, and what it was like working alongside Robert Kirkman. Then we shift into what comes next. Charlie talks about life after The Walking Dead, why he doesn't like to slow down, and how he approaches each new project differently, from Heretic to Altamont to his latest Image Comics series, Of the Earth. Of The Earth is Charlie's triumphant return to single issue storytelling in a neo-noir-tinged eco-horror with writers Chris Condon & Andrew Ehrich. In Of The Earth, Tabitha 'Tabby' Black flees a sordid life for her quiet hometown of Solitude, Texas and the comfort of her Gramma's home where she was raised. Only home isn't what it once was.... and neither is Gramma. We also get into process, building tension on the page, inking vs penciling, and why he treats comics like a film playing in his head while he works. It's a fun one you don't want to miss.

Matthew Rosenberg on Building a World Without Humans in IF DESTRUCTION BE OUR LOT & Taking Over SPAWN

Apr 8, 2026 1 hr 5 min

MATT ROSENBERG returns to Let's Talk Comics to talk about his new Image Comics series IF DESTRUCTION BE OUR LOT. This one is a post-human story set in a world that didn't end…it just kept going without us, with robots (lots of robots). And at the center of it all is an animatronic Abraham Lincoln trying to figure out why any of it matters. We get into where the idea came from and how it evolved from a weird visual into something much more personal. This book was built a little differently compared to Rosenberg's other work (like WE'RE TAKING EVERYONE DOWN WITH US) and is a book that's been quietly in the works for years. Matt breaks down building a world of robots still going through the motions, centering the story on the animatronic Abraham Lincoln, and how themes like isolation, connection, and identity started to shape the series. We also get into why this is the kind of story that only really works in the creator-owned space. Then we shift gears to SPAWN, where Rosenberg is stepping into the limelight not only writing the main book, SPAWN, but KING SPAWN too. He talks about finding his version of Spawn, building a new status quo, and what it means to take on one of Image Comics' most iconic characters. It's a fun one for sure.

Aditya Bidikar Talks In Your Skin and How Fandom Can Get Dangerous

Mar 27, 2026 1 hr 11 min

Aditya Bidikar joins Let's Talk Comics to talk about going from one of the most in-demand letterers in comics to stepping out as a writer with his new Image Comics series In Your Skin. We get into how he broke into the industry and why lettering matters more than people think. It's the piece of comics that controls how a page is read, and Aditya walks through how that actually works. Then we dig into In Your Skin. What started as a look at fandom turned into something much darker. It's a body horror story about obsession and identity, and it doesn't pull its punches. Aditya also talks about building the book, working with artist SOM, and what it means to finally put something out that feels completely his. Buckle up.

Lorenzo De Felici Talks Going Dark with Red Roots

Mar 23, 2026 1 hr 4 min

Lorenzo De Felici joins Let's Talk Comics to talk about his new series Red Roots and why it represents a major shift in how he approaches storytelling. We dig into how keeping up a DeviantArt page got Robert Kirkman's attention (which then led to work on Oblivion Song) and what he learned from the grind of monthly comics. Lorenzo took that experience and applied it to his first Image series Kroma, where he reshaped his instincts as both an artist and writer. Lorenzo breaks down his process, from building stories without scripts to designing characters that feel unexpected, and why Red Roots is him pushing into darker, more uncomfortable territory. If you're a creator looking to create comics, this conversation is for you. Lorenzo's key? Figuring out how to make the kind of comics you actually want to read, and then making them.

Tony Fleecs Talks Feral's Next Arc and Taking Bigger Risks

Feb 26, 2026 1 hr 21 min

Tony Fleecs accomplishes one of his personal goals, having his very own episode of Let's Talk Comics! This week, Tony and Jim talk about how his career has developed over the last few years. Everything from working with Ponies, what it took to launch his own books, and how that had led to where he is today is all discussed in a no holds barred conversation only he can have. The two cover how Local Man came together emotionally, how Stray Dogs found its audience and why he's in it for the long haul with Feral. Speaking of Feral, issue 21 is a major moment for Tony and the team. Not only is it a silent issue, but he's doing something for the first time that ONLY he can do. The next era of Feral begins here, and you're going to want to hear all about it. Buckle in folks, it's a great ride.

Geoff Johns Talks Ghost Machine & Why Ongoing Stories Still Matter

Feb 19, 2026 1 hr 24 min

Geoff Johns joins Let's Talk Comics to talk about building Ghost Machine from the ground up and what it means to commit to long-form, creator-owned storytelling. We dive into how Geiger, Redcoat, Rook: Exodus, and Hyde Street were developed, why each universe has its own lane, and what changes when creators control the future of their characters. Geoff also shares craft lessons that still guide his work and explains why having real endings in mind changes everything. It's a great look at how modern comics are built and why the long game still matters.

Patrick Kindlon Talks Tigress Island and Why You Have to Love the Work

Feb 13, 2026 1 hr 13 min

Patrick Kindlon joins Let's Talk Comics to talk about the craft behind his work, from breaking in through indie comics to building books like Frontiersman, Gehenna, and now Tigress Island. In this episode, Patrick digs into failing early, writing full scripts while leaving room for collaboration, building stories from character first, and learning how to survive criticism in a very public industry. We also dive into Tigress Island, his latest Image Comics thriller, a tense, pulpy escape story brought to life with gorgeous art by EPHK. If you care about the nuts and bolts of making comics and getting better with every book, this one's for you.

Doug Wagner Talks NARCO, The Materials Universe And Why Writing Unsettling Comics Are His Forte

Feb 5, 2026 45 min

This week on Let's Talk Comics, writer Doug Wagner joins the show for an in-depth conversation about crime storytelling and how creative discipline leads him to some of his best work The conversation digs into Wagner's work on Narco, his latest crime/horror series that blends drops it's main character in the middle of a murder mystery while dealing with....you guessed it, narcolepsy. Doug talks about what draws him to darker stories, and how he approaches writing crime in a way that feels grounded and purposeful rather than exploitative. From there, Doug also talks about his expansive Materials Universe, including Plastic, Vinyl, and Plush, and how each project helped shape his voice as a writer. He also gets into some deep process talk, explaining how his process has evolved over time, the importance of consistency, and the realities of sustaining momentum in a constantly shifting industry. This is one you cannot miss.

Andrew MacLean Talks Pure Comics Energy With Head Lopper And Death Fight Forever

Jan 22, 2026 1 hr 16 min

This week on Let's Talk Comics, I'm joined by Andrew MacLean, the creator behind Head Lopper and one of the most distinctive voices in modern comics. We talk about Andrew's journey into comics, how his art and storytelling voice developed, and what it takes to sustain a creator-owned career over the long haul. Andrew breaks down his approach to visual storytelling, world-building, and why clarity and momentum matter just as much as big action moments. We also dig into his new series Death Fight Forever, an all-new action comedy about super-thief bruiser brothers Crash and Bash Biggle, inter-dimensional crime lords, and the choices that can change everything. Andrew talks about the origins of the book, working with Alexis Ziritt, and why this project let him cut loose in a whole new way.

Brett Bean Talks D'ORC and Making the Comics He Always Wanted

Jan 8, 2026 46 min

We're kicking off the new year of Let's Talk Comics with creator Brett Bean. Brett joins the show to talk about the long road that led him back to comics. He shares how working in video games, animation, and other creative industries helped shape his approach, and why he ultimately chose to start over and focus on the medium he always loved most. We talk a lot about process and treating art like problem solving instead of waiting around for inspiration. We also dig into Brett's new Image Comics series D'orc. Brett breaks down the heart of the book and the balance between humor and violence. There's also talk about why character always comes first for him. He closes out talking about what the the bloodthirsty enchanted shield is all about but also, building a fantasy world that doesn't take itself too seriously. Then he ends with what he hopes readers connect with in the story. It's a laid-back, honest conversation about making comics and finally betting on yourself.

Year-End Special: Why Creator-Owned Comics Matter More Than Ever

Dec 31, 2025 57 min

This episode of Let's Talk Comics is a little different. Instead of a single guest, Jim Viscardi looks back at a year of conversations with some of the most influential creators in comics and the lessons those conversations revealed. From Marjorie Liu on never stopping your creative momentum, to Will Maxwell Prince and Deniz Camp on vulnerability and risk, to Sanford Greene on finding your own path into comics, this episode explores what success can look like in comics. Jim also reflects on conversations with Robert Kirkman, Rob Liefeld, and Marc Silvestri, breaking down why owning your work changes how creators approach risk, failure, and longevity. The episode wraps with listener Q&A, comic recommendations, and a look ahead at why 2026 may be one of the most exciting years yet for creator-owned comics. Whether you are a reader, creator, retailer, or someone thinking about breaking into comics, this episode is about why comics thrive when creators take chances.

Marc Silvestri Talks The Early Days of Image, Legacy And The Return Of The Darkness

Nov 6, 2025 1 hr 26 min

Marc Silvestri helped build Image Comics from the ground up and changed what comics could look like while doing it. From Cyberforce to Witchblade to The Darkness, his work inspired an entire generation of artists and fans. In this episode, Jim Viscardi sits down with Marc to talk about those early Image days, the creative chaos that shaped Top Cow, and how mentoring artists like Michael Turner and David Finch helped push the medium forward. Then we get into The Darkness and what it's like returning to Jackie Estacado after all these years. We talk legacy, worldbuilding, and what makes this new series feel like both a homecoming and something completely new.

W. Maxwell Prince tips his hand on ICE CREAM MAN "MORTAL COIL SHUFFLE" (with special guest Deniz Camp)

Nov 4, 2025 1 hr 11 min

W. Maxwell Prince (Ice Cream Man) and Deniz Camp (Assorted Crisis Events), two of the most inventive writers in comics today, sit down for a conversation about friendship, craft, and the chaos of creativity. It's NOT the epsiode of Let's Talk Comics you were expecting, but absolutely need to listen to. They talk about breaking into comics, surviving rejection, writing through vulnerability, and how structure can become meaning in storytelling. Prince reveals how Ice Cream Man: The Mortal Coil evolved from a deck of cards into an existential experiment, while Camp digs into how Assorted Crisis Events turns superhero storytelling inside out. It's a rare, funny, and heartfelt talk about empathy, experimentation, and the joy of making weird comics for readers who want to feel something real.

Ryan Parrott Talks Finding His Voice in Comics and Film Through Rogue Sun

Oct 31, 2025 1 hr 11 min

Writer Ryan Parrott (Rogue Sun, Power Rangers, Revolution) joins the show to talk about his wild career path, from film school to Bad Robot to Image Comics. We dive into breaking into Hollywood, finding your voice as a storyteller, and how collaboration shaped the Massive-Verse. Ryan shares the origins of Rogue Sun, the magic of working with artist Abel, and how a chance conversation with Todd McFarlane led to the unthinkable, writing Medieval Spawn.

Tyler Kirkham Talks Pressing Start on the Ride From Fan to Final Boss

Oct 23, 2025 1 hr 11 min

In this episode of Let's Talk Comics, we sit down Tyler Kirkham to talk about his path from small-town Utah to the Top Cow bullpen, breaking into comics right out of high school, and leveling up into a powerhouse career with DC and Marvel. Tyler opens up about the pivotal moments that shaped him, how he rebuilt his creative process after burnout, and what inspired him to go all-in on Final Boss, his high-octane, video game-fueled project at Image Comics.

Rob Liefeld Talks Bringing Youngblood Back to Image Comics

Oct 7, 2025 1 hr 20 min

Rob Liefeld changed comics forever when Youngblood hit in 1992, and now, more than 30 years later, he's back writing and drawing the book that helped define the Image Comics revolution. We dig into what Youngblood meant then, why it still matters today, and how it feels to bring the team back home to Image. Rob opens up about process, independence, legacy, and the raw creative energy that made Youngblood a phenomenon, and why the same spirit is driving a new generation of creators right now.

Jordie Bellaire Talks Redlands, Exquisite Corpses & the Art of Color

Sep 17, 2025 1 hr 24 min

On this episode of Let's Talk Comics, I sit down with the one and only Jordie Bellaire, winner of all the awards, colorist of some of the most talked about books of the last decade, and the writer who set the world on fire with Redlands. We dig into her early Image Comics days on books like Pretty Deadly and Nowhere Men, talk about what it takes to keep leveling up, and break down how she made the leap from coloring to writing. And of course, we get into Exquisite Corpses. This one has all the laughs and is full of deep insight and plenty of process.

Kieron Gillen Talks Collaboration, DIE, The Power Fantasy, and Creator-Owned Freedom

Sep 12, 2025 1 hr 28 min

Kieron Gillen makes his long-awaited debut on Let's Talk Comics and we go all in. We cover everything from breaking into the industry with Phonogram to redefining pop mythology in The Wicked + The Divine, to the return of DIE and the unexpected turns of The Power Fantasy. We also dig into his Image journey, what he carried over from his Marvel years, and how working with powerhouse artists like Jamie McKelvie, Stephanie Hans, and Caspar Wijngaard has shaped the stories fans can't stop talking about. If you want Gillen at his most candid, this one's it.

Frank Barbiere Talks His Image Comics Return With The Author Immortal

Sep 5, 2025 1 hr 2 min

Frank Barbiere first turned heads at Image Comics with Five Ghosts, and now he's back with his most ambitious series yet, The Author Immortal. We dive into Frank's path from breaking in at Image to making the jump into video games, how those experiences shaped his writing today, and why this new metafictional fantasy is the story he's been building toward for years.

Jason Fabok Talks Building the World of Rook: Exodus With Geoff Johns & Ghost Machine

Sep 2, 2025 1 hr 6 min

Jason Fabok joins the show to talk all things ROOK: EXODUS. You've seen his cinematic, larger-than-life art on Justice League and Batman: Three Jokers, but now, as part of Ghost Machine, he's building something original and massive. We dig into his journey, his partnership with Geoff Johns, the worldbuilding and fan reaction to the first arc, and what's coming in the second as the series expands with new characters, darker turns, and even bigger stakes.

David Finch Talks the Making of Skinbreaker with Robert Kirkman

Aug 15, 2025 58 min

Legendary comic book artist David Finch joins Let's Talk Comics to talk about his long-awaited new project with Robert Kirkman, Skinbreaker. We dig into how the project came together, what it's like building a brand-new world from the ground up, and the challenges (and rewards) of working in an oversized format. David also shares stories from his early days at Top Cow, his evolution through Marvel and DC, lessons from working with other writers, and how discipline has fueled his decades-long career. If you're excited for FInch's next big chapter with Skinbreaker, this is a must-listen episode! More information on SKINBREAKER: https://imagecomics.com/press-releases/comics-icons-robert-kirkman-david-finch-announce-new-action-series-skinbreaker What is SKINBREAKER: Enor has led his tribe for many seasons, but his time as Chieftan is coming to an end. He wields the mighty SKINBREAKER, but at his age, he can barely lift it. Will Enor's reluctant heir, Anok, take over before their world falls to ruin? As a bloody power struggle begins, an even bigger threat lurks in the darkness beyond their village.

James Tynion IV on 5 Years of The Department of Truth

Aug 14, 2025 50 min

Fan favorite writer James Tynion IV joins the Let's Talk Comics podcast to celebrate five years of The Department of Truth, his critically acclaimed Image Comics series with artist Martin Simmonds. We dig into James' origin story breaking into comics with Scott Snyder, to launching The Department of Truth in 2020 and so much more. James takes us behind the scenes of the brand-new Department of Truth #0, a perfect new reader friendly entry point for the series that redefines the stakes, and introduces new characters. Plus, we talk about the Elvis Presley backup story written by Scott Snyder with art by Joshua Hixson, the legacy of the Marilyn Monroe arc, and the most unforgettable conspiracies tackled in the series. The Flat Earth, Hollow Earth, and Bigfoot stories all get touched on in this one. Whether you're a longtime Department of Truth reader or brand new to the series, this episode is your guide to one of the most talked-about creator-owned comics of the last decade.

Jacob Phillips Talks Zombies, Westerns & Everything Dead & Dying

Aug 8, 2025 57 min

Artist Jacob Phillips (That Texas Blood, The Enfield Gang Massacre, Newburn) joins Let's Talk Comics to talk about his brand-new horror western, Everything Dead & Dying, co-created with writer Tate Brombal and coming this fall from Image Comics. We dig into Jacob's unexpected path into comics, how early "just another illustration job" gigs turned into a career, and what it takes to build a believable world. Like the guy built a 3D model before drawing page one! Jacob opens up about working with Tate, balancing gore with emotional storytelling, and why this isn't your typical zombie book. If you like The Walking Dead, Yellowstone, or just want to see a fresh take on the undead, this is one you won't want to miss.

Si Spurrier Talks Sweaty Crimes, Strange Worlds, and The Voice Said Kill

Jun 27, 2025 1 hr 1 min

Writer Si Spurrier joins Let's Talk Comics to talk about his new Image series The Voice Said Kill, a gritty, surreal crime story set deep in the Louisiana bayou. We get into the challenges of switching back and forth from work-for-hire to creator-owned, what it takes to build a story that sticks with readers, and how the right artist can completely change how a book feels. We also dig into Step by Bloody Step, how writing a silent comic pushed his process in new directions, and why he keeps chasing stories that feel a little risky. This one's a deep dive into trust, craft, and making comics that leave a mark.

David Marquez Talks Coming To Image Comics, The UnChosen & the Writer/Artist Paradox

Jun 12, 2025 59 min

David Marquez joins Let's Talk Comics to talk about The Unchosen, his first creator-owned book at Image Comics, and his debut as both writer and artist. We dig into the book's post-apocalyptic setting, its personal and philosophical roots, and how years of working with writers at Marvel & DC helped prepare him for this next chapter. From wild action to deeper emotional themes, this is the full David Marquez experience.

Maytal Zchut Talks Ghost Machine, Devour, Sisterhood & Making The Jump From TV

Jun 5, 2025 1 hr 6 min

In this episode of Let's Talk Comics, Maytal Zchut joins the show. Maytal is the writer of the powerful one-shot Devour and the upcoming miniseries Sisterhood from our friends over at Ghost Machine. Maytal opens up about her jump from television writing to comics, the deeply personal roots behind her stories, and what it's like learning a new medium while writing emotionally resonant horror in the creator-owned space. We dig into collaboration, character building, writing through tough days, and what it means to feel seen...both as a creator and a reader. Enjoy!

Chris Condon Talks News From The Fallout, Texas Crime & Zombies in Media

May 23, 2025 1 hr 10 min

Chris Condon joins the show to talk about his new Image Comics series News from the Fallout which is a black-and-white sci-fi horror epic set during a nuclear test gone wrong in 1960s Nevada. We dive deep into how the book evolved over a decade, why he wanted Jeffrey Alan Love on art, and what it means to build a comic that feels more like a surreal experience than a traditional genre piece. We also rewind to Chris's early days breaking into comics with That Texas Blood, how he randomly found Jacob Phillips through a failed film pitch, and how their creative partnership helped shape one of the most compelling releases in years. From American myth to Night of the Living Dead, this one covers a lot. News from the Fallout hits shops June 25. Explore the world of the book: newsfromthefallout.com If you enjoy the episode, leave a review, share it on social, and tag us—we love seeing the conversation keep going.

Ryan Ottley Talks Battle Beast, Invincible, and What it Takes to Draw Beautiful Destruction in Comics

May 13, 2025 1 hr 3 min

In this episode, Ryan Ottley dives into the return of Battle Beast and what makes the character tick. Spoiler, it's mythic rage, tragic purpose, and a relentless hunger for meaning through combat. We talk about how the project came together, how it expands the Invincible universe into bold new genres, and why this might be Ottley's most personal work yet. We also dig into his long-running friendship with Robert Kirkman, what it's like building a visual language for ultraviolence with emotional weight, and how deadlines, design shortcuts, and sheer storytelling instinct shaped his approach over the years. Plus: behind-the-scenes on those 1-in-2000 sketches, his time on Spider-Man, and how the Invincible TV series opened the floodgates. Whether you're an old-school fan or new to the world of Ryan Ottley, this is a good one.

Michael Walsh Talks Exquisite Corpses, The Silver Coin, and Building Worlds That Bite Back

Apr 17, 2025 1 hr 33 min

In this episode of Let's Talk Comics, Jim Viscardi sits down with Eisner-winning artist and writer Michael Walsh to dive into his ever-evolving career and the creator-owned magic he's making at Image Comics. From the genre-defining horror anthology The Silver Coin to the blood-soaked thrill ride that is Exquisite Corpses, Walsh has emerged as one of comics' most versatile and visionary storytellers. We go deep on: How The Silver Coin was built to showcase an artist-led shared universe Why creator-owned work changed his approach to storytelling—and his career The design-driven process behind Exquisite Corpses and its killer lineup His collaborative process with James Tynion IV and building comics like a writer's room Lessons learned from both indie and work-for-hire comics And what's next on the horizon Whether you're a fan of horror comics, a creator trying to find your voice, or just love hearing how great books get made, this one's for you.

Aubrey Sitterson Talks Free Planet, Comics with a Purpose and Making Noise That Matters

Apr 8, 2025 1 hr 4 min

This week on Let's Talk Comics, writer Aubrey Sitterson joins the show to talk about his Image Comics debut, Free Planet (with artist Jed Dougherty). Free Planet isn't just another space opera comic, it's a story about freedom and the sacrifices it demands. Aubrey breaks down how the book came together, what drives its message, and why joy, anger, and hope can all live on the same page. We also talk about his path from working as an editor to writing creator-owned books and how his ideology shows up in every story he tells. If you're into comics that challenge the status quo while delivering big action and even bigger ideas, this is a conversation you don't want to miss. Free Planet hits shelves on May 7th, be sure to pre-order through your local comic shop!

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Alex Segura Talks THE FORGOTTEN FIVE and Getting the Band Back Together

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Podcast details

Created by: Jim Viscardi
Status: Active
Latest episode: Nov 13, 2026
Episodes: 63
Release period: Weekly
Avg. episode length: 1 hr 6 min
Explicit: Yes
Language: English

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