Direct Edition
Dave from West Coast Davengers hosts a podcast covering comics, pop culture, movies, music, and collecting, mixed with everyday life and interviews. The show is described as being about nothing and everything.
Episodes
Does Art Heal You? Music, Comics & the Stories That Stay With Us
Dave takes this episode solo and answers questions from the community! He gushes about his love of artist editions (when will we finally get the Infinity Gauntlet??), early concerts like Pearl Jam & Weird Al Yankovic, the UK comics and Japanese manga scenes, Alan Moore, the healing power of music, and the never-ending hunt for the perfect reading soundtrack. Plus a healthy dose of gratitude fo
James Graham of Twilight Sad Talks Healing Through Music, The Cure, Robert Smith, and Scott Hutchison
Scottish singer-songwriter James Graham of The Twilight Sad joins Dave to discuss It's The Long Goodbye, the band's sixth album, on Rock Action Records. Graham shares the solitary writing process that led him through the grief of losing his mother to dementia, and bandmate Andy MacFarlane's role as collaborator and anchor during the process. The two discuss Graham's friendship
Sanford Greene Battles DC Comics World With DARKSEID & Scott Snyder, Czarface, Bitter Root, & Ink Alliance!
Cartoonist Sanford Greene (Bitter Root) returns to Direct Edition to discuss Darkseid vs. The World, his upcoming DC All-In saga with Scott Snyder. He explains how a retailer's offhand suggestion inspired a two year pitch-to-page journey, and how his admiration for Jack Kirby's Hunger Dogs shaped his take on Darkseid, and the instincts that keep things simple. Sanford talks about being i
Stan Sakai's New Art Book! Usagi Yojimbo & Akira Kurosawa Influence
Legendary cartoonist Stan Sakai returns to Direct Edition to discuss The Art of Stan Sakai, his first-ever Kickstarter: an oversized art book collecting five decades of work. Sakai shares his lifelong love of physical media, the trial-and-error watercolor technique that gives his paintings their glow, and the Koh-I-Noor pen he stockpiled 20 years ago when it was discontinued. The two discuss Sakai
Eric Zawadzki On Assorted Crisis Events, The Eisners and The Films Of Michael Mann
Artist Eric Zawadzki joins Dave to discuss Assorted Crisis Events, the ambitious, award-winning anthology co-created with writer Deniz Camp. Zawadzki talks visual reinvention, his innovative Pixar-style drafting process, and the impostor syndrome that flared up after winning an Eisner. The two discuss the word-of-mouth momentum that helped quadruple the book's sales, meeting Scott McCloud at
Chris Condon : The Art Of The Slow Burn Comic (That Texas Blood, Of The Earth, Ezra Cain
Writer Chris Condon joins Dave to discuss the return of That Texas Blood (Image Comics), his Indiana Jones-esque pulp adventure Ezra Cain (Vertigo), and Of the Earth (Image), his collaboration with Charlie Adlard. Condon shares his love of slow-burn storytelling, how trust fuels his ongoing creative partnerships, and the 70s cinema (Alien & Jaws) that shapes his writing. The two discuss the FX
Matteo Scalera on Why He Returned To Batman, Working With Matt Fraction, And Action Scenes In Comics!
Matteo Scalera returns to Direct Edition to discuss his fill-in on Batman issues 13 and 14, part of Matt Fraction's Bad Seeds event. Scalera talks about saying yes after years of turning down DC, collaborating with colorist Tomeu Morey, and bringing choreographed intensity to the book's fight scenes inspired by movies like The Raid.The two discuss the passion fueling DC's current re
Steve Skroce From Designing The Matrix To Tales Of Wonder, A Journey From Comics To Hollywood And Back!
Cartoonist Steve Skroce joins Dave to discuss Tales of Wonder, his new five-issue series with Image comics. Skroce shares how comedic films like Galaxy Quest and Tropic Thunder shaped the book's DNA, the creative falling out that inspired its themes, and why creative collaboration is always worth protecting. The two discuss Skroce’s years storyboarding all four Matrix films with the Wachowski
Nick Thorburn (Islands) Talks Pear Shape & Creating Underground Comics For Current Times & Creem Taste Of Cherry
Cartoonist and musician Nick Thorburn (Islands, The Unicorns) joins Dave to talk about his new book Pear Shape from Fantagraphics, and Taste of Cherry, the debut album from his band The Creem. Thorburn talks about his creative approach to writing both comics and songs, the lifelong pull toward gallows humor and tenderness, and the freedom of letting stories reveal themselves as he works. The two d
Jim Ward on Sparta's Cut A Silhouette, The Current State Of Touring, And Women Who Rock!
Jim Ward returns to talk with Dave about Sparta's new album Cut a Silhouette, out now on Equal Vision Records. Ward shares how a manager's blunt critique sparked three of the record's best songs, working with Jawbox founder and producer J. Robbins as a shepherd and mentor, and bridging his earliest work with who he is now. The two discuss the ticket price fatigue reshaping the touri
Che Grayson - Absolute Catwoman, Scott Snyder Collaboration, and Horror Movies
Writer and Filmmaker Che Grayson joins Dave to discuss Absolute Catwoman, the DC project they're co-writing with Scott Snyder and artist Bengal. Grayson shares how their indie roots and pandemic-era Zoom calls with Snyder led to the collaboration, and the creative energy that has allowed the Absolute line to resonate. The two discuss Easter eggs hidden in the first two issues, the essential r
Daniel Warren Johnson Returns With CHAINKATA - Chainsaw Sci-Fi Epic!
Cartoonist Daniel Warren Johnson joins Dave to announce Chainkata, his ambitious, decade-in-the-making new sci-fi series from Image. Chicks with chainsaws! Johnson shares the origin of the book's chainsaw-wielding heroine and the experimental color techniques that brought it to life. The two discuss inspiration drawn from Richard Corben and manga masters, the emotional weight of his Eisner wi
Ytasha Womack : How Miles Morales Changed The World Of Spider-Man
Award-winning author and cultural critic Ytasha Womack joins Dave to discuss Spider-Man: Miles Morales, An Exploration, her new book from the Marvel Age of Comics series examining the character's cultural significance. Womack shares how her work on Afrofuturism led her to Miles, why the character's vulnerability resonates far beyond superhero fandom, and the layered symbolism baked into
Miles To Go with Brian Michael Bendis (Spider-Man, Jessica Jones & Powers!)
Legendary writer Brian Michael Bendis joins Dave to discuss his return to Marvel, and the upcoming animated series of Powers in development at Netflix. Bendis reflects on co-creating Miles Morales, Jessica Jones, and Riri Williams (Ironheart), the Jewish roots of American comics from Kirby to Eisner, and the early-2000s Marvel bullpen with Joe Quesada. The two discuss the nuances of Bendis' p
My Tokyo Summer - How Punk & DIY Inspired Abby Denson To Publish A Comic In Japan!
Cartoonist and author Abby Denson joins Dave to discuss 'My Tokyo Summer', her new graphic memoir, illustrated by Utomaru from Scholastic .Denson talks about the early influence of the DIY punk scene on her work, how a zine she made in the 90s sparked a lifelong friendship, the vastness of Japan's doujinshi culture, and the power of art and friendship to transcend barriers. The two
Geof Darrow Brings Shaolin Cowboy Back To Fight AI !
Legendary artist Geof Darrow joins Dave to discuss Shaolin Cowboy: Stayin' A.I.Live, the latest installment of his cult series from Dark Horse. They discuss some of the amazing artists tapped for variant covers including Peach Momoko, Daniel Warren Johnson, and Ryan Ottley.Darrow talks about his refusal to work digitally, the why-not philosophy that fuels his art, and working at a pace fit fo
Chew Creators John Layman & Rob Guillory Return With Ghost Brawler : Ghostbusters Meets Raging Bull!
Writer John Layman and artist Rob Guillory (Chew) join Dave to discuss their new collaboration Ghost Brawler, the Bruiser Edition live on kickstarter now! The two share the blistering writing pace of the series, how the setting draws from the cinematic style of Martin Scorsese, and the creative shorthand of a decade working together. The pair discuss the Chew television adaptation at Blumhouse, sh
Nick Dragotta Brings Manga Influence To ABSOLUTE BATMAN With Scott Snyder!
Superstar Artist Nick Dragotta joins Dave to discuss the breakout success of DC's Absolute Batman. Dragotta shares the project’s Frank Miller-meets-manga blend of influences, his "yes and" collaboration with Scott Snyder, and the bold visual decisions that shaped the book's identity. The two discuss the cartoonists setting the gold standard for visual storytelling , Alex Toth,
Jim Rugg's New Book On Wolverine Weapon X - A Deep Dive Into The Marvel Age Of Comics
Cartoonist Jim Rugg joins Dave to discuss The Marvel Age of Comics: Weapon X, his deep-dive into Barry Windsor-Smith's seminal 1991 Wolverine story, originally serialized in Marvel Comics Presents.Rugg talks about the project's origin, why he considers it one of Marvel's all-time greatest works, and how Windsor-Smith's pre-digital coloring techniques remain unmatched. The new b
Alex Pardee - Bleeding Dreams Onto Canvas, Obsession, & Sam Kieth
Artist Alex Pardee (The Used, Aesop Rock) joins Dave to discuss Dream Bleeder, his new gallery show at Harman Projects in New York City. Pardee discusses his creative process, finding inspiration in anxiety and his Disneyland meets natural history museum approach to building immersive worlds. The two discuss Sam Kieth’s mentorship, Curry Barker's Obsession, elevated horror movies, how YouTube
Derek Kirk Kim On Royals & The Last Mermaid - Storytelling, Comics & Loss
Derek Kirk Kim, Eisner and Harvey-winning comics creator, joins Dave from London to discuss Royals, his Koren-American new noir thriller. Derek shares the joy of writing a comic for another artist.Kim shares how a decade directing and storyboarding in animation saved him during a dark period, and how losing both parents brought him back to comics with The Last Mermaid.The two discuss cold-messagin
Matt Fraction And Chip Zdarsky : Mad About DC, Batman & Avengers Armageddon
Writer Matt Fraction (Batman, Hawkeye) and Canadian Chip Zdarsky (Captain America, Daredevil) join Dave for the 100th episode.The chums talk about Mad Magazine, Sex Criminals, Avengers Armageddon, and the business end of Marvel and DC comics. The two discuss shared influences, from Don Martin to Dan Clowes, Chip's cover recreation project, and why Batman has never experienced an orgasm. Also
Atsushi Kaneko's Search And Destroy : Anger, Punk & Manga (An Interview)
Mangaka Atsushi Kaneko (Bambi and Her Pink Gun, Deathco, Soil, Evol) joins Dave to discuss Search and Destroy, his modern tribute to Osamu Tezuka's Dororo, published by Fantagraphics. Kaneko shares how Sex Pistols and Stanley Kubrick shaped his teenage years, discovering Daniel Clowes and Charles Burns via Iggy Pop during Japan's lowbrow art boom, and the records that still inspire his w
Connor Valentin Of Dissentience - The Crossroads of Music, Art & Kaiju
Guitarist and frontman Connor Valentin (Dissentience) joins Dave to chat about the band's new EP 'Kaiju' . They talk about giant monsters, comics, and the crossover between art and music. Valentin shares how McFarlane toys and Marvel Legends action figures shaped his early creative interests, filling his vintage Marvel tryout book with work from Mark Bagley and Erik Larsen, and the
Gary Groth : Fantagraphics 50 Years Of The World's Greatest Cartoonists
Gary Groth, publisher and founder of Fantagraphics joins Dave to reflect on 50 years of championing comics, the world's greatest cartoonists, and following conviction. He talks about launching The Comics Journal at 21, meeting Robert Crumb, Harvey Kurtzman, Daniel Clowes, Todd McFarlane, Charles Schulz, and the defining moment Love and Rockets arrived, unsolicited in his mailbox. The two disc
Sebastian Bach : From Skid Row To The Spider-Man , Sebastian is one of us!
Skid Row frontman Sebastian Bach joins Dave for a deep-dive conversation about comic book collecting, rock music, and creative inspiration. Bach shares his earliest comic memories, from Fantastic Four to Herb Trimpe’s Incredible Hulk, and how those stories shaped his lifelong taste as a collector. He recounts unforgettable rock tour road stories, including the legendary moment he bought Amazing Fa
Brett Bean : D'ORC and Dungeon Crawler Carl , A Recipe For Success
Cartoonist Brett Bean (Dungeon Crawler Carl, Rocket and Groot, Jim Henson Creature Shop) joins Dave to discuss D'ORC, his humorous, high-fantasy series with Image Comics. Bean shares how he developed his protagonist from his own experience of never fitting in, his "controlled chaos" approach to both art and life, and the pivotal conversation that caused him to leave behind animation
Marko Djurdjevic : Building The ORKEN Universe After Leaving Marvel Comics
Artist Marko Djurdjevic (League Of Legends, Marvel Variant Covers) joins Dave to discuss ORKEN, his ambitious and wide ranging transmedia project of novels & illustrated books via Kickstarter. Djurdjevic talks about his overcommitment to quality, building legacy through his company SixMoreVodka, Javier Bardem, the principles that drove his cover designs for Marvel, Ultimate Fallout 4, and shar
Ben Earl : Inspiration From Mythology & Spirituality To Marvel Comics
Writer B.Earl (Ultimate Hawkeye, Werewolf by Night, Daredevil and Echo) joins Dave for an enthusiastic conversation about his path from film editor to comics and his unlikely partnerships with Will.i.am (Masters of the Sun) and Taboo of the Black Eyed Peas, and his personal writing on spirituality and creativity. The two talk comics, Northwest artist Jeffrey Veregge, Jim Lee's X-Men, music to
Steve Bissette & Jim Rugg Bring Tyrant Back From Extinction
Stephen Bissette (Swamp Thing) & Jim Rugg (Cartoonist Kayfabe, Street Angel) join Dave to discuss the upcoming Artist and Complete Editions of Tyrant via Kickstarter , Bissette's singular prehistoric dinosaur masterwork. Eisner Hall of Fame legend Bissette and comic genius Rugg explore the role of fanzines in shaping early careers, the intensive scientific research that nearly derailed Ty
Jim Starlin On Dreadstar, Thanos, Bernie Wrightson & 60 Years of Comics!
Comic legend Jim Starlin (Infinity Gauntlet, Batman Death In The Family) joins Dave to discuss the upcoming Dreadstar vs Dreadstar Kickstarter. Starlin shares stories from the New York studio scene of the 1970s, Walt Simonson's spoilers, learning from Howard Chaykin, collaborating with Bernie Wrightson, and how early encouragement from Steve Ditko kept him drawing. The two explore Starlin&apo
Matteo Scalera & Shawn Crystal : Inkpulp Tour & Fourth Father Kickstarter!
Shawn Crystal & Matteo Scalera join Dave ahead of OAX, where the full InkPulp crew will assemble in person for the very first time. (Jim Mahfood, Eric Canete, Jamie Wood)They break down the business of self-publishing, the toll of running a Kickstarter for Matteo's book The Fourth Father, and how indie creators can build better partnerships with comic shops. The three look ahead to the in
Eric Canete Brings Green Hell To Absolute Batman !
Eric Canete (Aeon Flux, Inkpulp, Iron Man) joins Dave to discuss his upcoming run on DC Comics Absolute Batman. Canete shares the story of landing the gig at NYCC after conversation with Snyder & Dragotta, and how Akira helped unlock the style of his early sample pages. Eric reflects back to getting into comics via Glenn Danzig, and his start in animation with the great Peter Chung.They explor
Star Wars Rogue One & Book Of Eli Writer Gary Whitta - Hollywood Is Broken!
Screenwriter Gary Whitta (Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, The Book of Eli) joins Dave to discuss See You in Hell, his new self-produced comedy podcast and why audio storytelling has become his creative home. Whitta breaks down how Hollywood studios, streaming wars, and algorithm-driven content helped damage the film industry—and what creators can do outside the traditional studio system.The conversa
Robert Venditti Is ORDAINED on PLANET DEATH!
Writer Robert Venditti joins Dave to discuss his current slate of Bad Idea books, including Ordained, Planet Death, and Hank Howard: Pizza Detective. Venditti breaks down his creative process, and a creative partnership with John Wick creator Derek Kolstad. They discuss Rob's genre-hopping career, taking over Green Lantern from Geoff Johns, and his perspective on fandom. The two dig into Nir
Larry Reid: Seattle's Mayor Of Alternative Comix, Art, & Music
Larry Reid, curator and manager of the Fantagraphics Bookstore joins Dave to discuss Seattle’s underground art, music, and comics scene. Larry reflects on running the legendary Seattle Roscoe Louie Gallery in the late ’70s, and the rise of alternative comics alongside the city’s punk and grunge movements. Larry speaks about the inspiring words he got from Robert Crumb, working with Gary Groth &
Japan Book Hunter on Rare Japanese Books, AKIRA & the Art of Collecting & Selling
Recording live from Koenji, Japan, Dave sits down with Shawn — better known as Japan Book Hunter — for a deep dive into Japan’s unique underground book culture, rare book collecting, and the obsession that drives collectors down endless rabbit holes. From underground bookstores to forgotten print runs, this conversation explores what makes Japanese books so special — and so hard to find.They discu
The Best (and Worst) of 2025 - Music, Movies & Comics
2025 was a banner year for media. In this episode, Dave breaks down his favorite TV, music, movies, and comics of the past 12 months—what swam, what sank, and which movie somehow managed to make him feel stupider. From Sinners to Hayley Williams and Absolute Batman, this episode serves as the best of the best, in Dave's eyes.Big thanks to Phil for the awesome edit on this!Join the Patreon and
Matteo Scalera - The Fourth Father (Of Comics)
Matteo Scalera (Black Science, Nemesis Forever) joins Dave to discuss the upcoming release of his new Kickstarter-backed project, The Fourth Father. They discuss storytelling and Scalera’s creative process, and fandom within the Inkpulp Podcast universe. They explore the surge of Italian comic creators, Tim Sale's last Batman book, the narrative mastery of Breaking Bad and Watchmen, and the “
Geof Darrow - The Driving Force Behind Shaolin Cowboy, Hard Boiled, and The Matrix
Comic legend Geof Darrow joins Dave for the Season 5 premiere ahead of the release of Shaolin Cowboy The Beginning of the End Results: 21 Years Of Blood, Sweat & Chainsaws. Uncle Geof reflects on working alongside Jack Kirby and Frank Miller, developing concept art for The Matrix, and introducing Moebius to the work of Katsuhiro Otomo. They talk film, Martial arts, gore, and fantasy; consider
X-men Legend Marc Silvestri Brings The Darkness Back To Image Comics
Comic icon Marc Silvestri joins Dave for a wide-ranging conversation about the pivotal creative moments that shaped his career. From his earliest science fiction influences and the work of legends like Jack Kirby, Bernie Wrightson, Frank Frazetta, and Norman Rockwell, to collaborations with Larry Hama and Chris Claremont. Silvestri discusses his enduring impact on the X-Men & Wolverine , his r
The Direct Edition Guide to Podcasting (100,000 Easy Steps!)
Dave reflects on 80 episodes of Direct Edition and shares the lessons, tools and methods that he’s picked up along the way. He looks ahead to Japan, reveals the season finale guest and the season 5 premiere guest and shares a healthy dose of gratitude.Support the podcast, join the Patreon :https://www.patreon.com/davengersdirecteditionwww.directeditionpodcast.comSend us Fan MailSupport the show
Dreams in Ink and Motion: The Art of Jim Woodring
Jim Woodring (Creator Of Frank) joins Dave to discuss the creative process behind his award winning surrealist comic art and unique personal vision. Jim recalls his early connection to MAD Magazine and Harvey Kurtzman’s grotesque, lyrical style. He reflects on the work of R. Crumb, and the defining influence of Salvador Dalí. They discuss Jim’s time working with Gil Kane and Jack Kirby at Ruby-Spe
Kelley Jones Horrific Visions of Bats, Bane, and Dracula
Artist, writer, and fan Kelley Jones (Batman, Dracula, Deadman, Sandman, Swamp Thing) joins the podcast. Kelley details his time working on the Batman Knightfall Covers in the 90's, culminating in the breaking of Batman, pushing the limits at DC Comics.He discusses DRACULA, his partnership with Matt Wagner, and how he made a monster out of Bane in the 90's. Kelley talks about early horro
Jim Mahfood’s Arachnid Enforcer, the Most Defective Comic of All Time
Jim Mahfood returns to discuss Defective Comics Presents : Arachnid Enforcer, his newest self-published, Kickstarter-backed bootleg Spider-Man comic. Jim and Dave drink spider-blood and swap stories about their earliest parody influences—MAD Magazine, SNL, and “Weird Al” Yankovic—favorite Spider-Man eras, Jim’s character-design work on Into the Spider-Verse, and the perpetual thrill of seeing your
Tyler Mane, the pro wrestler behind Michael Myers, Sabretooth, and The Last Spartan
Tyler Mane joins Dave to talk about his pro wrestling career, becoming Sabertooth (X-Men & Deadpool / Wolverine) & Michael Myers (Halloween) and co-creating his first graphic novel The Last Spartan: Red Tape. Tyler shares stories from his earliest days training with Stu Hart, finding inspiration in comic books, wrestling Andre the Giant in Japan, working with Rob Zombie, getting stabbed on
Erik Larsen Returns to Spider-Man, and the future of Savage Dragon
Comic legend Erik Larsen is back to discuss his return to Marvel, writing the new Spider-Man Noir miniseries and creating a Jack Kirby–inspired variant cover for Venom: Black, White & Blood, in which he writes and draws a short story. He talks about working with the classic “Marvel method” and the noir touchstones—Bogart, The Thin Man, Citizen Kane—that shaped his approach. Larsen also shares
From Alien Earth to Hayley Williams to Deftones, Dave’s Healthy Media Diet
Dave shares his theory about the Stranger Things-ification of modern horror and the shadow it casts on classics like Gremlins, Ghosbusters and Poltergeist. He gives his spoiler free review of Alien: Earth, and explains why Noah Hawley (Fargo, Leigion) is the perfect fit for the franchise. Plus, Dave breaks down surprising new albums by Hayley Williams, Deftones and The World Is A Beautiful Place (
The Life, Times and Beats of Jonny Phillip (Limbeck, Benjamins, Trapper Schoepp)
Drummer, producer and founder of Good Land Records Jon Phillip joins Dave for a heartfelt conversation about music, fandom, baseball, addiction, recovery, sobriety and friendship. The two talk influences, Guns N’Roses, Paul Westerberg, the Replacements, Metallica’s indelible legacy and Jon’s time drumming with Limbeck, The Benjamins, Tommy Stinson, Trapper Schoepp, Berwanger, Mini Meltdowns, and T
Matt Fraction's BATMAN Is Built For The Long Run
Fresh off the release of Batman 1 , Eisner Award–winning writer Matt Fraction (Iron Man, Hawkeye, Fantastic Four, Godzilla, Sex Criminals) joins Dave to discuss launching a bold new era for the Dark Knight alongside veteran Batman artist Jorge Jimenez. The conversation covers Monarch: Legacy of Monsters, DC Comics’ creative renaissance, strategies for maintaining mental health, and diving back int
Robert Kirkman & David Finch's Eight Year Comic Collaboration - SKINBREAKER
Titans of industry David Finch (Batman, New Avengers) and Robert Kirkman (Invincible, The Walking Dead) join Dave to discuss their long-awaited new project, Skinbreaker. Eight years in the making, the comic reflects their shared creative impulses, dynamic world-building, and love of character design, with invaluable contributions from colorist Annalisa Leoni. They reflect on sources of inspiration
Felipe Smith: Manga, Comics, and Storytelling – Part 2
Felipe Smith continues his reflections on working in Japan as a foreigner in the manga industry, discussing the politics of publishing and the cultural rules of depicting violence. He shares stories of meeting his hero Simon Bisley, lessons learned from Todd McFarlane, and the creative growth that came from collaborating with Tradd Moore On Robbie Reyes All New Ghost Rider. Felipe also talks about
Felipe Smith: Manga, Comics, and Storytelling – Part 1
Writer and artist Felipe Smith joins Dave for an in-depth, two-part conversation exploring his career and acclaimed work on MBQ, Peepo Choo, TMNT, and All-New Ghost Rider. They dive into Felipe’s early inspirations growing up in Argentina, including Simon Bisley and Frank Frazetta. Felipe talks his groundbreaking achievement as the first Western artist to create a serialized manga in Japan, the in
Jon Wayshak’s Cul-De-Sac, No Shortcuts, No Gimmicks
Artist and illustrator Jonathan Wayshak joins Dave to talk about his upcoming Cul-de-sac comic book with Bad Idea, his recent work for Heavy Metal, and signing at the Todd McFarlane Spawn booth at SDCC. Wayshak reveals the materials and methods behind his creative process, explains why a strong script in comics makes all the difference. Plus: vampires, David Lynch, and Billy Joel!Way$hak on Instag
Daniel Warren Johnson: Greatness is Par for the Course (Kickstarter Art Book)
Daniel Warren Johnson, Greatness is Par for the CourseEisner Award-winning comic book artist and writer Daniel Warren Johnson returns to discuss the making of The Art of Daniel Warren Johnson, his new, Kickstarter-funded, career-spanning monograph. He talks to Dave about his latest projects - Absolute Batman Annual, his creator owned Sci-Fi project, and covers for Deadpool and the DC KO Tournament
Dan Schlissel of Stand Up! Records: Born Joking, Die Laughing
Stand Up! Records founder and Grammy-winning producer Dan Schlissel joins Dave for a wide-ranging conversation about comedy, music, and maintaining integrity. They discuss Dan’s family roots, his early fascination with American junk culture, Chick Tracts, punk record label (ISIM & ISIMIST), and the formative impact of seeing George Carlin at 17. Dan shares how he helped launch Slipknot’s caree
Every Second Counts (Where Did All Our Free Time Go?)
'The Bear' has Dave wondering about the true cost of being so busy all the time. Has corporate exploitation robbed us of our free time? Dave talks business sense, Ticketmaster monopoly, the scam of streaming services, Turnstile, and draws parallels between the decline of comic books and vinyl records. https://www.westcoastdavengers.com/direct-edition-podcast
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Stepping Outside Your Comfort Zone: Why Trying New Things Matters
Dave is back from Heroes-Con, feeling fitter, happier and more productive. He shares his theory of small batch travel, finding authentic experiences beyond the beaten path and supporting local business. Dave talks Carolina BBQ, learning to love Radiohead, eating under the influence, Mission District Tacos, and the revolutionary act of introducing new people to new things.https://www.westcoastdaven
Chip Zdarsky Is Great, Again!
Chip Zdarsky returns to the podcast to talk about writing Marvel’s new Captain America series, and to try and make sense of how Zdarsky Comic News (ZCN) landed a 2025 Eisner Award nomination. The two talk manga, Japan, the current state of the comics industry, Tom Waits, and Zdarsky’s surprising new best friend, Pedro Pascal.Check Out Chip's Substack - https://zdarsky.substack.com/https://www
Stan Sakai's Wise Words (Usagi Yojimbo Creator)
Part 2 of Dave’s conversation with comic book legend Stan Sakai. The two discuss Stan’s early fanzine contributions, his writing process, collaborating with Peach Momoko, the long-lasting importance of friendship, and Usagi Yojimbo’s infinite future.Watch part one here - https://youtu.be/BRDaMetpSZk?si=Xco317r-Vlry1Q_Ihttps://www.westcoastdavengers.com/direct-edition-podcastSend us Fan MailSupport
Alice Darrow's Guide To The Apocalypse
For the Season 4 premiere, Dave welcomes artist and animator Alice Darrow to the podcast. They discuss Alice’s debut comic release Tramps of the Apocalypse , her unexpected influences and unique process for creating a bold, vivid and satirical work. They talk political chaos, untangling conventional narratives, and the constant work of fending off gratuitous cruelty. Tramps Of The Apocalypse 1 is
This Man, These Monsters, The Art Of Dave Correia
SEASON FINALE -New Orleans-born, Bay Area-raised artist Dave Correia joins the podcast for the season three finale to discuss artistic camaraderie, influences, and the drive, ambition, and execution needed for an independent creative life. The Daves discuss comic convention culture, Jaws, John Carpenter, Bernie Wrightson, The Last of Us, Zero Friends, Alex Pardee, color, cosmic horror, overcoming
Liam Finn - Into The Hyperverse
Liam Finn has spent his entire life surrounded by music. He is a multi-instrumentalist, composer, singer, and member of the New Zealand band Crowded House. Liam’s father, Neil Finn, is a founding member of Crowded House, who Liam now tours and records with. In this episode Dave talks with Liam about the power of music, not paying billionaires, performing live, opening for Eddie Vedder, his first
Rob Sheridan: From Rags To Glitches (Nine Inch Nails, Pearl Jam)
Artist, creative director, writer, and illustrator Rob Sheridan joins Dave to discuss his creative process and work designing groundbreaking stage visuals for Nine Inch Nails and Pearl Jam. They talk about the impact of technology on creativity and what it means for the future of digital media, Sheridan’s comic High Level (DC/Vertigo), album art, bonding with Trent Reznor, Quake, Glitch Goods, and
Jar Jar Binks Was Right All Along... And I'll Prove It!
In this episode, Dave takes a look at the church of Star Wars. He talks about the lasting impact of George Lucas’ visionary work, prequel love, and his distain for the misguided fans intent on bringing the whole galaxy down. He looks back at the material that spawned the ‘90s resurgence and how the success of Andor, Asoka and The Mandalorian signal a bright future for the franchise.Plus, an overab
Confessions Of A Hockey Stick Hustler
Dave shares stories of NHL mischief at Madison Square Garden, corporate exploitation, and the long con that may have single handedly devalued an entire segment of the collectables world. Also Sinners, the promise of Ryan Coogler and a quick rundown of what Dave is currently reading, watching and listening to. https://www.westcoastdavengers.com/direct-edition-podcast
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The Good & Bad Ideas Of Dinesh Shamdasani
Comic Book Publisher, Collector, entrepreneur and comic fan Dinesh Shamdasani joins Dave for a wide ranging and candid conversation. From his time growing up in Hong Kong to his film studies at USC and breaking into Hollywood to Comics publishing, Dinesh has stories to tell.They discuss all things Bad Idea, Planet Death, C2E2, Valiant Comics, original art, community, action movies and Wizard Magaz
Going Postal In A Pandemic - My USPS Story
Dave tells the harrowing story of his time working for the United States Post Office during the COVID-19 pandemic. He looks back on how the tyrannical management, torrential weather and relentless schedule led to chronic physical injury and, ultimately, starting his own business. Special shoutout to Sherman the Dog, Superman, and the special place in hell reserved for Amazon packages.www.directedi
Chris Farren - Another Perfect Podcast Guest
Musician (Antarctigo Vespucci & Fake Problems), artist and kindred spirit Chris Farren joins Dave for a conversation about creativity, collaboration, songwriting and Billy Joel. He shares the story on how he met long-time friend and collaborator, Jeff Rosenstock.Chris talks about his early touring days, influences, Korn, Florida, Mall Music, Batman, podcasting, becoming internet famous and sta
Demon In A Bottle Part II
52 episodes in and ahead of a much needed 2 week break, Dave reflects on 11 years of sobriety. He talks about his pivotal move from New York to the West Coast, avoiding the plight of idle hands, clean(er) living, and cutting ties. Also, few thoughts quick thoughts on Jon Bolerjack Stan Lee Documentary Kickstarter - ‘nuff said.https://www.westcoastdavengers.com/direct-edition-podcast
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Eddie Vedder, An American Spirit
A long drive to Emerald City Comic Con has Dave thinking back on his time as an autograph hunter, meeting Peter Jackson, eating Clive Davis’ donuts, and the good fortune that led to time spent with Eddie Vedder and Mike McCready of Pearl Jam from Montreal to New York!https://www.westcoastdavengers.com/direct-edition-podcast
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Sanford Green: Art Is The Only Thing We Have
Award winning artist Sanford Greene joins Dave for a conversation about comics, culture, community and music. They discuss the restless state of the world, battling nonsense with legitimacy, Michael Golden, early anime, the power of Public Enemy, and 90s comic art. Greene talks about his teaching role, his hip-hop variant covers, upcoming Doom treasury and the return of Bitter Root. Send us Fan
Keeping Craft Alive With Shawn Crystal (Coffee Talk)
Episode 49Comic artist and Inkpulp founder Shawn Crystal joins Dave for a conversation about humor, leadership, craft and coffee. The two recap last year’s Original Art Expo (OAX), share perspectives on collecting and selling artwork, and discuss the proliferation of digital processes in today’s art world. Also, skate graphics, Cezanne, the wizardry of Bill Sienkiewicz and a peek into Shawn’s upco
Ready Player Dave, Your Favorite Marvel Rival
Dave talks about his recent obsession with the new Marvel Rivals game, and how his addictive personality sometimes leads him down a slippery slope. After reminiscing about the golden days of Nintendo 64's GoldenEye 007, Dave shares his thoughts on Captain America - Brave New World (no spoilers!), meeting Anthony Mackie, and the national treasure that is Harrison Ford. https://www.westcoastdav
Jim Ward : Think Big Talk Small (Sparta & At The Drive In)
Dave welcomes special guest and prolific musician Jim Ward to the podcast. They discuss Jim’s work with At the Drive-In, Sparta, and Sleepercar, the early influence of Steely Dan and Billy Joel, the curse of major labels and the sometimes brutal work of doing your best.Playlist of Songs Mentioned: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2zXZx3CRvfVo1ThQGXy4C0?si=be3d586501cb46a6Find Jim Herehttps://www.
A Dave For Dark Times
It’s the 46th episode and things are dark. Dave talks briefly about the current state of US politics and shares a fond remembrance of legendary artist David Lynch.He recaps his recent trip to the 2nd annual Original Art Expo (OAX), a bout with the Florida Flu, bullies, and the professional hazard of dealing with the stupid.Dave shares reader submitted comfort movies, talks The Coen Brothers, and e
Fincher, Reznor and Ross - The Comfort Network
Need a break? We all do sometimes.
Dave talks comfort movies and how a familiar film - good or bad - can make you feel at ease. He discusses David Fincher's The Social Network and his body of work, Nosferatu, the second coming of Trent Reznor, and how billionaire villains prove that money always makes a monster.
If you are interested in Fincher's filmography check out Seven, Fight Clu
Alex Pardee’s Colorful Horror
Artist Pardee joins Dave and talks about how his earliest inspirations - Garbage Pail Kids, Santa Cruz Skateborads, Tales From the Crypt and Gary Larsen’s Far Side comics - formed the recipe for his unique and colorful artistic style. They discuss how the positive power of art can help quiet an anxious mind, the glory days of Tower Records, David Fincher and the hustle involved in building somethi
DJ Skeme Richards, THE Nostalgia King
Dave sits down for an in-depth conversation with global DJ, cultural alchemist, foodie, and ambassador of nostalgia, Skeme Richards. The two discuss early musical inspirations and the youth driven culture collision of New York’s early rap and punk scenes, and compare notes on time spent in Japan.
Skeme explains the connections between his role as musical conductor and pop culture preservationist,
An American Kaiju in Japan
Dave shares his (almost) daily diary of audio recordings from Tokyo and talks book hunting, Japan Comic Art Expo, Tokyo Comic Con, meeting Peach Momoko and the surreal city that he is quickly falling in love with.
Dave shares his original art commission by Shintaro Kago, talks local cuisine, coffee, Godzilla, praises the lost art of walking, and discusses the value and promise of new partnerships
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