Batman Podcast Launches New Companion Series

Superhero comics have transcended traditional media, inspiring not only movies and TV shows but also high-quality podcasts and audio dramas. DC has launched its most ambitious podcast project yet with the debut of DC High Volume: Batman, a series dedicated to bringing some of the Dark Knight’s most iconic comic book tales to life in audio form. However, to get the complete experience, you shouldn't just stop at the main series.

DC is enhancing the experience with a companion show within the DC High Volume feed, hosted by writer and journalist Coy Jandreau. This companion series provides behind-the-scenes insights through interviews with the cast, crew, and the creators who inspired DC High Volume: Batman. The first episode, set to release on Thursday, April 24, will feature discussions with Batman voice actor Jason Spisak and DC’s Creative Director of Animation & Audio Content, Mike Pallotta. IGN had the opportunity to speak with Jandreau to delve deeper into how this series complements the DC High Volume: Batman saga, enriching the listener's experience.

What Is DC High Volume: Batman?

To fully appreciate the companion series, it's important to understand what DC High Volume: Batman is all about. This series is a groundbreaking collaboration between DC and podcast giant Realm, transforming iconic Batman comic books like Batman: Year One into an ongoing audio drama. Jason Spisak voices Bruce Wayne/Batman, while Jay Paulson lends his voice to Jim Gordon.

“DC High Volume is the first of its kind at this scale, essentially a one-to-one adaptation of classic Batman comic books into an immersive audio long-format radio play,” Jandreau explained to IGN. “It takes stories like Batman: Year One and The Long Halloween and turns them into a fully immersive audio experience, complete with sophisticated production design, audio special effects, talented voice actors, and a tailored score for different characters, creating an entirely new way to experience stories that I’ve been reading my whole life.”

Jandreau highlighted that the series aims to weave an ongoing narrative using key chapters from Batman’s graphic novels. Starting with Batman and Gordon’s origin story in Year One, it transitions into The Long Halloween, set in Year 2 of Batman’s career.

“The goal is to present the long-running Batman mythos in this new medium, offering a starting point for both die-hard fans like myself and newcomers who might only know Batman from movies or animated series,” Jandreau noted. “By revisiting the roots and showcasing these pivotal moments in a shared universe with consistent voice actors, we're crafting something that evolves through the storytelling of these classic narratives.”

As a lifelong comic book fan, Jandreau is excited about the new dimension these audio adaptations bring to iconic stories, translating a visual medium into a purely auditory experience.

“It’s remarkable how much emotion and experience these stories convey in a different format,” Jandreau shared. “I don’t see this as diminishing the art of comics; rather, it enhances it with audio. You can listen on your own, in the car, with high-quality headphones, or even through speakers, and each method offers a unique experience. You can also listen while reading the comics for an even richer experience, or use it as a backdrop for discussions. None of these methods detract from the original comics; they add to them.”

The High Volume Companion Series

Jandreau’s companion series serves as an in-depth look at the creation of DC High Volume: Batman, exploring the challenges of adapting comics into audio. It’s available both as an audio podcast within the DC High Volume: Batman feed and as a separate video series. The first episode will premiere on April 24, closely following the debut of the main series' adaptation of Batman: The Long Halloween.

“This project has been in development for years, and the goal was always to showcase the incredible talent behind the scenes, from voice actors and composers to DC staff and the original creators,” Jandreau said. “It’s important for listeners to get to know these individuals as well.”

Jandreau, who also works on the DC Studio Showcase video series, was a natural choice to delve into the making of DC High Volume: Batman.

“I’ve been working on DC Studio Showcase, which covers the studio side of DC’s world-building efforts. My role as a comic correspondent there led to this opportunity, and I’m thrilled to explore comics in this new way,” Jandreau explained.

In the first companion episode, Jandreau discusses with Spisak the challenges of voicing Batman and how his character’s voice evolves throughout the series, reflecting different interactions with other characters.

“It’s fascinating to hear how Jason Spisak approaches Batman’s voice, especially in Year One, where we witness Bruce Wayne’s transformation into Batman. The voice changes subtly depending on who Batman is speaking with, whether it’s Gordon, Alfred, or the voice inside Bruce Wayne’s head,” Jandreau said.

Regarding the structure of the companion series, Jandreau clarified that it’s not strictly tied to each chapter of DC High Volume: Batman but rather to significant emotional and plot developments.

“The companion episodes aren’t just about following each issue sequentially. We focus on key moments that resonate with our guests and the audience, providing context and enhancing the overall experience,” Jandreau noted.

Jandreau drew inspiration from various interview formats, including Inside the Actors Studio, Hot Ones, and classic late-night talk shows, to craft a unique and engaging companion series.

“I combined the long-form style of James Lipton with the nuanced questioning of Sean Evans and the energetic vibe of shows hosted by Johnny Carson and Conan O'Brien. I wanted to create a blend that feels both informative and entertaining,” Jandreau explained.

The Future of DC High Volume: Batman

Looking ahead, Jandreau expressed interest in interviewing key figures in Batman’s comic history, including The Long Halloween writer Jeph Loeb and his Batman: Hush collaborator Jim Lee.

“Jim Lee’s role at DC and his artistic contributions are incredibly inspiring. I’m eager to gain his insights on the stories he’s helped create,” Jandreau said. “Jeph Loeb, whose work forms the backbone of many classic Batman adaptations, is another must-have guest. His work on Long Halloween and Dark Victory is pivotal, and I’d love to delve into his creative process.”

Jandreau also mentioned Tom King, known for his extensive Batman run from 2016-2019, as someone he hopes to feature on the show.

“Tom King’s unique perspective, having worked for the CIA, adds a fascinating layer to his Batman stories. His exploration of love, pain, and vengeance in Bruce Wayne’s life is something I’m keen to discuss,” Jandreau noted.

Ultimately, Jandreau’s vision for the companion series is to foster positivity within the Batman fandom, providing a welcoming space for both long-time fans and newcomers.

“The internet can be a hostile place, especially within fandoms where people are deeply passionate about these stories. I want to highlight the positivity in this genre, encouraging a more uplifting community,” Jandreau said. “Whether you’re a die-hard fan or someone curious about Batman, this series aims to be a welcoming space, akin to an open comic book store door.”

For more Batman content, explore the top 10 Batman costumes of all time and the top 27 Batman comics and graphic novels.