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 (PHEW): Also, JOIN OUR PATREON and watch Brad and Dolph Lundgren celebrate 1989's The Punisher movie for seven whole minutes. 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 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. 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.

Comic Book Couples Counseling Podcast

Free Comic Book Day with Jesse Lonergan and Third Eye Comics

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 celebrate 1989's The Punisher movie for seven whole minutes. 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 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. 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.

Collin Kelly and Jackson Lanzing on Star Trek

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 COMMUNITY. 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 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. 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.

Patreon Preview: Matt Bors and Ben Clarkson on Justice Warriors

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 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.

CBCC 90: Invincible & Atom Eve - Reboot?

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 Johnson on CBCC, talkin' Beta Ray Bill Daniel Warren Johnson on CBCC, talkin' Do a Powerbomb! Robert Kirkman on CBCC, talkin' Invincible 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. 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 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.

Creator Corner: Evan Narcisse on Milestone 30th Anniversary Special

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 Superman II: The Richard Donner Cut Alamo Drafthouse Screening. Follow Four Color Fantasies on Facebook. Follow Four Color Fantasies on Twitter. Tour the Bruce Lee Foundation. 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 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.

CBCC 89: Invincible & Atom Eve - Modern Family

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 ourLone Wolf and Cub: Sword of Vengeance screening, co-sponsored by Four Color Fantasies, the Eisner-nominated comic book shop. 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 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.

Robert Kirkman Programs Our Invincible Podcast

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 ourLone Wolf and Cub: Sword of Vengeance screening, co-sponsored by Four Color Fantasies, the Eisner-nominated comic book shop. 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 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.

The Ultimate Do A Powerbomb! Daniel Warren Johnson Interview

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 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.

Creator Corner: Collin Kelly & Jackson Lanzing on Clayface

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 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 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.

Creator Corner: Joshua Williamson & Jamal Campbell on Superman

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 on The Short Box Podcast Brad Talkin' the DCU on The Oblivion Bar Brad Talkin' 2023's Most Anticipated Movies on The Oblivion Bar Subscribe to The Comics Collective for More Norrin & Dawn Ride the Omnibus Lisa Writes About Dawn Greenwood for Comics Bookcase 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 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.

Dan Slott on Silver Surfer & Dawn Greenwood: A CBCC Second Opinion

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 If Books Could Kill: The Game The Last Ronin Patreon Episode The Last Ronin Oral History on Inverse Lisa talkin' Twilight on Comics Collective Brad talkin' The Last of Us on A Bite Of Don't forget! Check out the latest episode of The B&B Show, Brad's Picks the 10 Best Movies of 2022, 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 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.

CBCC 88: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles- The Last Ronin

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 HERE. Check out the latest episode of The B&B Show, Brad's Picks for the 10 Best Movies of 2022, HERE. 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 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.

Creator Corner: Mark Waid, Nicole Maines, & Leah Williams on Lazarus Planet

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 @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.

Creator Corner: Kelly Thompson and Meredith McClaren on Black Cloak

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 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.

Creator Corner: Alex Segura on Blood Oath and The Black Ghost

Join married couple Brad and Lisa as they explore the various dynamics of comic book relationships throughout pop culture and publishing history.

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Comic Book Couples Counseling Podcast

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