Campus Comics Cast

Can you believe it is already time to pre-order comics coming out in May 2026! Timestamps: 00:00:00 Opening Music 00:00:10 Intro 00:00:30 Next Phase catalog start 00:11:07 DC 00:42:25 Image 01:18:38 Panels catalog start 01:18:50 Panels Highlights 01:32:05 Marvel 01:44:40 Comic Sales Numbers ICV2 01:51:38 Next Episode 01:52:12 Outros 01:53:13 Stingers What happens when comic distribution wars meet mega-crossovers, and could Penguin Random House be quietly killing Marvel's sales momentum? If you're navigating monthly pre-order catalogs overwhelmed by variant gimmicks, absolute universe saturation, and wondering whether your pull list dollars are going to the right titles, this episode cuts through the noise with sharp takes on what's actually worth ordering—and what's pure speculation trap. Strategic pre-order picks across publishers including deep cuts from Bad Idea (Megalith with 8-year production saga), new Vertigo horror launches (Bleeding Hearts, End of Life, Peril of the Brutal Dark An Ezra Cain

Join us for episode 229 of the Campus Comics Cast as we make our way to the bayou and dive into the muck with Man-Thing and Swamp Thing. Timestamps: 00:00:00 Opening Music 00:00:10 Intro 00:00:22 New Comics and FOMO2 00:03:48 Sal Buscema 00:05:45 First Five Man-Thing and Swamp Thing 01:01:34 CLZ Shake 01:09:10 Outros 01:10:10 Stinger Which came first, Man-Thing or Swamp Thing—and does it really matter when both characters are rooted in a 1940s monster called the Heap? If you've ever wondered how two iconic swamp monsters emerged within months of each other—or why new comics suddenly spike to $70+ on release day—this episode connects comic book history, speculative market trends, and the creative influences that shape the characters you collect and read today. Listeners will gain: Deep-dive origins analysis comparing the Heap (1942), Man-Thing (1971), and Swamp Thing (1971)—including how roommates Gerry Conway and Len Wein may have unconsciously influenced each other's creations Practical collecting in

So, it is apparently Super Bowl Sunday this week and I had no idea who was playing until two hours ago and I'm actually okay with that. Timestamps: 00:00:00 Opening Music 00:00:15 Intro 00:06:35 Next Phase catalog start 00:18:40 DC 00:51:30 Image 00:49:04 Panels catalog start 01:14:58 Panels Highlights 01:28:31 Marvel 01:39:20 Comic Sales Numbers 01:45:08 Next Episode 01:46:00 Outros 01:47:00 Stingers Can a comic-book podcast spark your curiosity even if you’re not a comics fan—or if you’ve sworn off sports? This episode ties everyday interests (pop culture, sports memories, and personal fandom shifts) to a broader question: how do we discover value in media when our loyalties change? You’ll see how seemingly unlikely topics can intersect to keep your curiosity alive and show how personal stories shape what we choose to watch. Three benefits you’ll gain: A fresh perspective on how to blend seemingly unrelated interests (comics, sports, entertainment) into engaging discussion. Practical tips for tr

As we batten down the hatches to prepare for winter storm Fern, we hopeyou enjoy episode 227 of the Campus Comics Cast as you watch the snow fall outside. Timestamps: 00:00:00 Opening Music 00:00:10 Intro 00:01:58 First Five Grimjack 00:38:15 The Future Is 01:32:50 CLZ Shake 01:36:01 Outros 01:36:43 Stinger How much has independent comics culture shaped your reading habits—and are you sleeping on character origins that defined the genre 40 years ago? This episode explores the gritty world of Grimjack—a mercenary navigating the multi-dimensional city of Cynosure—while diving deep into The Future Is, a modern cybersecurity heist series featuring a ragtag team of pentesters and hackers. Whether you're curious about '80s independent titles that influenced modern storytelling, or fascinated by the intersection of hacking culture and comics, this discussion reveals how both pulp action and cutting-edge tech narratives find their voice in sequential art. Discover why Grimjack's multi-dimensional setting and mora

How many time do you plan to write in the wrong year before the next episode of the Campus Comics Cast? Who is even still writing dates? Timestamps: 00:00:00 Opening Music 00:00:10 Intro 00:02:28 Listener Feedback 00:06:40 Next Phase catalog start 00:09:25 DC 00:31:08 Image 00:49:04 Panels catalog start 00:52:58 Panels Highlights 01:01:45 Marvel 01:15:04 Next Episode 01:15:47 Outros 01:16:30 Stingers When was the last time a comic book catalog actually surprised you—and made you rethink what you’re pre-ordering for the next two months?​ This episode dives into the latest Next Phase and Panels catalogs, helping you sort through a lighter-than-usual slate of publishers, movie tie-ins, and stealth reprints so you can focus your budget on the issues that are actually worth your pull list. Whether you are juggling limited shelf space, trying to spot the next hot key issue, or just want more fun reads and fewer regrets, the discussion gives you a curated roadmap instead of 500 pages of guesswork. ​ Discove

Welcome to this festive episode of the Campus Comics Cast as recorded on Boxing Day 2025 as we discuss the first five appearances of the Black panther and discuss some comic books we have been reading. Timestamps: 00:00:00 Opening Music 00:00:10 Intro 00:03:20 First Five Black Panther 00:54:27 What We have Been Reading 01:21:35 Outros 01:22:34 Stinger What if Boxing Day isn’t just about leftovers and sales—what hidden origins of Black Panther’s first appearances could reshape how you see heroic storytelling on screen and in comics? This episode ties into the reader’s interest in deep-dive folklore and character origin stories, while also addressing a current desire: understanding how early appearances shape a superhero’s long-term impact, which can influence how fans evaluate film and comic book adaptations today. Gain a clearer grasp of the context behind the Black Panther’s early appearances and their significance in the character’s development. Gather insights into how a superhero’s first moments can

As we recover from our Turkey hangovers, it is once again time to be thankful for the preorders episode of the Campus Comics Cast. Timestamps: 00:00:00 Opening Music 00:00:08 Intro 00:00:16 Listener Feedback 00:04:50 Next Phase catalog start 00:08:50 DC 00:38:10 Image 01:04:04 Panels catalog start 01:15:34 Marvel 01:31:16 Next Episode 01:33:05 Outros 01:33:42 Stingers If you could only afford a handful of new comics next month, which hidden gems and big releases would actually be worth your cash and reading time?​ This episode walks you through the latest Lunar/Marvel/DC/Image and indie catalogs so you are not guessing in the dark about what to pre-order, helping you skip duds, spot sleeper hits, and focus your budget on books you will genuinely enjoy. By listening in on two longtime readers debating art, writers, formats, and trends, you get a shortcut past hype and into grounded, real-world buying advice you can use with your own pull list.​ Discover standout new series, specials, and graphic nov

Welcome to the rootenest, tootenest episode yet of the Campus Comics Cast, or our names ain't Yosemite Sam and Josey Wales, which by the way, they are not. Join us for our discussion of the first five appearances of Jonah Hex and a review of Dead Acre Black Badge. Timestamps: 00:00:00 Opening Music 00:00:26 Intro 00:03:06 First Five Jonah Hex 00:54:36 Western Comic Books To Read 00:58:45 Dead Acre Black Badge Review 01:26:30 Outros 01:28:44 Stinger Are you ready to ride into the weirdest corners of the Old West—where gunslingers, angels, and werewolves all share the same dusty street?​ If you love Westerns but wish they had more monsters, angels, and supernatural mystery, this episode is aimed right at you.​ You’ll see how mixing classic cowboy tropes with horror and theology can give familiar comics and stories a fresh, surprising edge.​ Understand what makes Jonah Hex and other Western comics still compelling today, even for readers who usually stick to superheroes.​ Discover how “Dead Acre” blends We

Welcome to episode 222 of the Canvas Comics Cast, as we are still coming down from our Halloween Sugar Buzz to bring you the pre-orders for comics generally shipping in January of 2026! Timestamps: 00:00:00 Opening Music 00:00:16 Intro 00:03:28 Next Phase catalog start 00:07:24 DC 00:28:06 Image 00:55:50 Panels catalog start 01:04:58 Marvel 01:16:34 Next Episode 01:18:55 Outros 01:20:12 Stingers Have you ever wondered which new comic releases are truly worth pre-ordering—and how to avoid the duds in the upcoming 2026 catalogs?​ If you’re tired of sifting through endless comic solicitations that all sound the same, this episode is your guide to picking out the hidden gems and avoiding surprises like the Halloween comic controversy or surprise creative team changes.​ Discover the stand-out series and trades shipping in January 2026, including expert opinions on overlooked stories and formats.​ Get inside info on which new creative teams, variant covers, and publisher moves are sparking community buzz

Welcome to episode 221 of the Campus Comics Cast as we go Absolutely Savage discussing the beginning of the DC Absolute line along with our next first five featuring the Savage Dragon. Timestamps: 00:00:00 Opening Music 00:00:18 Intro 00:01:30 DC Absolute 1st Issues 01:05:48 First Five Savage Dragon 01:28:35 CLZ Shake 01:39:20 500 Comic Book Challenge 01:43:33 Next Episode 01:44:38 Outros 01:45:21 Stinger What happens when the world’s most recognizable heroes are rebuilt from the ground up—stripped of everything you thought you knew about them? If you’ve ever felt that superhero stories have become too predictable or repetitive, this episode offers a fresh lens on creative reinvention. By exploring DC’s new Absolute Universe and Erik Larsen’s Savage Dragon legacy, the discussion reveals how bold storytelling can breathe life into familiar icons—much like how readers crave originality in an era flooded with reboots and reimaginings. It’s an episode for anyone seeking to rediscover excitement in modern co

Welcome episode 220 of the Campus Comics Castas we dig deep, and I mean really deep, to find comics worth mentioning in the October Pre-orders. Timestamps: 00:00:00 Opening Music 00:00:24 Intro 00:02:02 Next Phase catalog start 00:07:42 DC 00:19:20 Image 00:35:44 Panels catalog start 00:38:55 Marvel 00:57:10 Next Episode 00:58:50 Outros 01:00:03 Stingers What would you do if the comic pre-order catalogs suddenly felt emptier than ever—are we entering a new normal, or just a seasonal lull? Collectors and comic enthusiasts know the struggle of wanting new stories and meaningful first appearances, yet facing catalogs light on buzz-worthy releases. This episode digs into why recent months feel thin for pre-orders, how industry shakeups like distributor changes impact your buying experience, and what to make of DC and Marvel’s current event titles. Which hidden gems and upcoming releases are actually worth their time and budget during a slow month. Practical strategies for navigating pre-order catalogs

Welcome to episode 219 of the Campus Comics Cast were join Superman and the Black Panther for an anti-Klan episode. Timestamps: 00:00:00 Opening Music 00:00:19 Intro 00:00:30 News 00:08:10 Superman Smashes the Klan 00:44:06 Black Panther Versus the Klan 01:28:35 CLZ Shake 01:35:05 Next Episode 01:36:48 Outros 01:38:03 Stinger Did you ever wonder how superheroes tackle real-world hate—and what happens when comic legends like Superman and Black Panther go head-to-head against the Klan in stories inspired by true historical events? If racial tension, community division, or the resurgence of hate groups feels all too familiar, this episode dives into how comics not only reflect but confront those problems, offering hope and perspective when society needs it most. Listeners will discover: How classic comic arcs like "Superman Smashes the Klan" and vintage Black Panther stories expose the roots and impact of racist organizations in American history, making these tales urgently relevant today. Powerful examp

Welcome episode 218 of the Campus Comics Cast. And with the announcement of the next Superman movie for July 9, 2027, we at the Campus Comics Cast announce our review of said movie in late July of 2027. Timestamps: 00:00:00 Opening Music 00:00:25 Intro 00:03:25 Next Phase catalog start 00:09:15 DC 00:33:56 Image 00:53:30 Panels catalog start 01:00:45 Marvel 01:12:54 Next Episode 01:13:20 Outros 01:14:26 Stingers Are you missing the hottest new comics on your pull list without realizing it? This episode of Campus Comics Cast reveals the pitfalls and hidden gems in the September pre-order catalogs, including tips to ensure you never overlook must-have titles. With comic publishers constantly reshuffling catalogs and solicits ahead of official release dates, collectors and fans run the risk of missing out on first appearances, surprise crossovers, or limited variants—especially as catalog page numbers and online listings get more confusing each month. Knowing how to navigate pre-order season means bett

Welcome to episode 217 of the Campus Comics Cast were We2 talk about We3, the Grant Morrison and Frank Quitely 3-issue mini-series as well as our thoughts on James Gunn's Superman. Timestamps: 00:00:00 Opening Music 00:00:25 Intro 00:01:35 We3 Review 00:39:53 Superman 2025 Review 01:37:20 Next Episode 01:40:58 Outros 01:42:39 Stinger Have you ever wondered what happens when animals and advanced technology collide in a story that's as heart-wrenching as it is thought-provoking? If you’re looking for a fresh perspective on the emotional impact and ethical dilemmas of modern science fiction, this episode dives deep into "We3"—a graphic novel that explores the blurred lines between compassion, innovation, and responsibility. Whether you're a comic fan or simply craving a discussion about the ways storytelling can illuminate issues we face today, the conversation is packed with insights on grappling with technology, empathy, and the value of second chances. You'll discover how powerful visual storytelling ca

Welcome to the August 2025 pre-orders episode of the Campus Comics Cast. The temp outside may have finally broken, but the comics shipping in October are still on fire! Timestamps: 00:00:00 Opening Music 00:00:26 Intro 00:00:44 Fantastic Four 1978 Cartoon 00:03:45 Listener Feedback 00:06:40 Kyle Stark Where Monsters Lie Volume 3 Kickstarter 00:08:30 Next Phase catalog start 00:19:09 DC 00:40:35 Image 01:00:48 Panels 01:12:32 Marvel 01:35:54 Next Episode 01:37:30 Outros 01:39:05 Stingers If you are a comic book fan, collector, or retailer, you are probably stuggling with the shift to digital only catalogs and which publisher is with which distribution company. Let us help you sift through the over 1000 pages of comic pre-order information and get the comic books you want. What comics should I be ordering that will arrive in October 2025? Which comic books should I be looking forward to in October 2025? Any comic books I should be looking at as an investment for the future? Hit play in your favori

Welcome to episode 215 of the Campus Comics Cast as we open the Darkhold in search of vampires and other ghastly ghouls as we discuss the first six issues of Tomb of Dracula. Timestamps: 00:00:00 Opening Music 00:00:30 Intro 00:00:40 Superman 2025 Quick Take 00:04:45 Listener Feedback 00:07:20 Tomb of Dracula 01:09:25 Trivia 01:15:45 What We Have Been Reading 01:45:55 CLZ Shake 01:51:28 Next Episode 01:52:36 Outros 01:54:18 Stinger Have you ever wondered how Marvel’s Tomb of Dracula redefined comics horror and set the stage for modern vampire legends? If you’re fascinated by classic comic storytelling, horror’s evolution in pop culture, or how timeless characters like Dracula continue to shape our imaginations, this episode is for you. Exploring the first six issues of Tomb of Dracula (1972), we reveal why this series still matters—whether you’re a collector, a genre fan, or just looking to rediscover what makes a comic run truly legendary. Gain a behind-the-scenes look at how Tomb of Dracula broke the

Welcome to the July 2025 per-orders episode of the Campus Comics Cast as we go 100% digital with our comic recommendations. Timestamps: 00:00:00 Opening Music 00:00:25 Intro 00:00:40 Jim Shooter Passing 00:05:23 Diamond Previews catalog digital only 00:07:45 Listener Feedback 00:08:27 RSS XML File Changes 00:12:38 Next Phase catalog start 00:15:45 DC 00:26:55 Image 00:54:50 Panels 01:05:20 Marvel 01:19:10 Outros 01:22:04 Stingers Did you know the comic book industry just lost one of its biggest icons—Jim Shooter—at the same time as major changes are shaking up how you discover and buy comics? If you’re a comic fan, collector, or retailer, you’re probably feeling the impact of losing industry legends and the confusion from the shift to digital-only catalogs and new distribution rules—making it harder than ever to keep up with your favorite titles and creators. Hear personal stories and behind-the-scenes insights about Jim Shooter’s legacy and influence on comics. Get up-to-date advice on navigati

Welcome to episode 213 of the Campus Comics Cast as we are out with the old and in with the new, DC New Gods that is. Timestamps: 00:00:00 Opening Music 00:00:24 Intro 00:04:20 Jack Kirby's New Gods 00:58:00 Ram V's New Gods 01:46:55 CLZ Shake 01:49:20 Next Episode 01:51:08 Outros 01:51:58 Stinger Have you ever wondered how Jack Kirby’s original vision for the New Gods compares to today’s bold new interpretations—and what that means for the future of DC’s cosmic mythology? If you’ve ever felt lost trying to navigate the legacy of the New Gods or want to understand why these characters still matter, this episode breaks down the classic origins and the latest reinventions, helping you connect the dots between past and present storytelling in comics. By listening, you’ll discover: The fascinating history and context behind Jack Kirby’s groundbreaking New Gods series, including its ties to Superman’s world and the Fourth World saga. Key differences and fresh perspectives brought by the new series from Ram

So what happens when one host of the Campus Comics Cast forgets you are recording a pre-orders episode? You rush through the catalog and record anyway. Join Mike and Scott (the forgetful one) as we make recommendations for comics generally shipping in August 2025. Timestamps: 00:00:00 Opening Music 00:00:22 Intro 00:01:30 Peter David Passing 00:05:38 More Distribution News 00:07:00 Next Phase catalog start 00:20:55 DC 00:37:10 Image 00:53:20 Marvel Creator Story 00:57:37 Marvel 01:09:57 Panels 01:20:47 Outros 01:23:08 Stingers Have you ever wondered how comic book industry trends, creator tributes, and the latest catalog releases could impact your next pull list or investment pick? If you’re a comic fan trying to navigate a crowded market, stay ahead of collectible trends, or simply want to make smarter buying decisions, this episode tackles the latest catalog highlights, industry news, and creator spotlights that directly affect what’s worth reading, collecting, and talking about right now. Disc

Welcome to episode 211 of the Campus Comics Cast as we dread the day Loki becomes the god of podcasts. In this episode we discuss the first five appearances of Loki, talk about several comics we have been reading, and wrap it up with a CLZ shake. Timestamps: 00:00:00 Opening Music 00:00:24 Intro 00:03:40 First Five Loki 00:45:55 What We Have Been Reading 01:14:20 CLZ Shake 01:21:50 Next Episode 01:22:24 Outros 01:23:17 Stinger Have you ever wondered how Loki transformed from a classic comic book villain into one of pop culture’s most complex and beloved antiheroes? If you’re a fan of Marvel, the MCU, or just love a great character evolution, understanding Loki’s journey from his earliest comic appearances to his current status can help you appreciate how storytelling and fandom have changed—and why Loki continues to capture imaginations today. Discover the origins and first five comic book appearances of Loki, and how they shaped his mischievous persona. Learn how Loki’s character evolved from a stereot