DC Unveils Batman Podcast Companion Series with Exclusive Insights

Superhero comics are now inspiring not just films and TV shows but also high-budget podcasts and audio dramas. DC has launched its most ambitious podcast project yet with DC High Volume: Batman, a series adapting the Dark Knight’s most iconic comic book arcs.

However, listening only to DC High Volume: Batman misses part of the experience. DC is introducing a companion show within the same feed, hosted by writer and journalist Coy Jandreau. These episodes explore the series’ creation through interviews with cast, crew, and original comic creators. The debut companion episode, set for release on Thursday, April 24, features Batman voice actor Jason Spisak and DC’s Creative Director of Animation & Audio Content, Mike Pallotta.

IGN recently spoke with Jandreau by phone to discuss the series and its role as a companion to DC High Volume: Batman. Read on to discover how these episodes enhance the Batman experience.

What Is DC High Volume: Batman?

To grasp the purpose of the companion series, it’s helpful to first understand DC High Volume: Batman. This collaboration between DC and podcast leader Realm is an ongoing audio drama that closely adapts iconic Batman comics like Batman: Year One. The series features Jason Spisak as Bruce Wayne/Batman and Jay Paulson as Jim Gordon.

“DC High Volume is a groundbreaking project, adapting classic Batman comics into an immersive, long-form audio drama,” Jandreau told IGN. “It brings stories like Batman: Year One and The Long Halloween to life with exceptional production, sound effects, talented voice actors, and a score that gives each character their own theme. It’s a fresh way to experience stories I’ve loved my whole life.”

Jandreau explains that the series uses seminal Batman graphic novels as chapters in an ongoing narrative. It begins with the shared origin of Batman and Gordon in Year One, then moves to The Long Halloween, set in Batman’s second year.

“The goal is to craft a long-running Batman saga in this new medium, welcoming both lifelong fans and newcomers who may only know Batman from films or animated series,” Jandreau says. “It returns to the roots, delivering iconic moments in a shared universe with consistent voice actors, evolving through these classic stories.”

As a lifelong comic fan, Jandreau finds value in experiencing these stories in a new auditory format, transforming a visual medium into a purely sound-based experience.

“These stories evoke powerful emotions in a unique way,” Jandreau says. “It’s not about losing the art but adding a rich audio layer. You can listen in a car, with headphones, or even while reading the comic for a different experience. Each approach feels distinct, yet none diminishes the original comic.”

The High Volume Companion Series

Jandreau’s companion series dives into the making of DC High Volume: Batman, exploring the challenges of adapting comics for audio. Released in both audio format on the DC High Volume: Batman feed and as a separate video series, the first episode premieres on April 24, following the start of the Batman: The Long Halloween adaptation.

“This project has been in development for years, with a focus on showcasing the behind-the-scenes talent,” Jandreau says. “From voice actors and composers to DC staff and the original comic writers and artists, we want listeners to connect with the creators.”

Jandreau’s role stems from his work on the DC Studio Showcase video series, making him a natural choice to explore the creation of DC High Volume: Batman.

“I work on DC Studio Showcase, a bi-weekly show on Max and YouTube, covering the studio side of DC’s projects,” Jandreau explains. “Comics are my passion, so hosting a show about adapting them in a new way is an honor.”

In the first companion episode, Jandreau and Jason Spisak discuss finding Batman’s voice and how it shifts depending on the character he’s interacting with.

“Jason Spisak brings a fresh take on Batman,” Jandreau says. “In Year One, you hear Bruce Wayne becoming the Bat. His voice evolves, sounding different with Gordon, Alfred, or even in his own mind. It’s fascinating to hear these layers develop.”

We asked about the companion series’ structure. Jandreau clarified that it doesn’t follow a rigid format but aligns with key emotional moments in the main series.

“It’s not one episode per comic issue,” Jandreau says. “The first episode follows a major moment in The Long Halloween’s opening issue, allowing us to explore the transition from Year One and discuss character growth. It’s about adding context that enhances the listener’s experience.”

Jandreau drew inspiration from Inside the Actors Studio, Hot Ones, and classic late-night talk shows like those hosted by Johnny Carson and Conan O’Brien.

“I admire James Lipton’s long-form interviews and Sean Evans’ ability to uncover new perspectives,” Jandreau says. “I wanted to blend that with the energy of classic talk shows to create a dynamic, engaging format.”

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The Future of DC High Volume: Batman

Looking forward, Jandreau hopes to interview DC creators like Jeph Loeb, writer of The Long Halloween, and Jim Lee, his collaborator on Batman: Hush.

“Jim Lee’s work as both an artist and DC leader is inspiring,” Jandreau says. “His insights would be invaluable. Jeph Loeb’s stories, like The Long Halloween and Dark Victory, are the backbone of many Batman adaptations, and I’d love to have a deep conversation with him.”

Jandreau also named Tom King, whose 2016-2019 Batman run included the controversial unconsummated marriage between Batman and Catwoman.

“Tom King’s life, including his CIA background, feels almost Batman-like,” Jandreau says. “His approach to writing Bruce Wayne’s pain, love, and vengeance resonates with me. I’d love to discuss his work, especially as he’s shaping projects like Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow.”

Jandreau aims for the companion series to foster positivity in the Batman fandom, countering the negativity often found online.

“Fandom can be tribal because these stories mean so much,” Jandreau says. “But there’s enough negativity in the world. I want this show to be a positive space for fans, old and new, to connect with Batman’s stories in a fresh way, like a welcoming comic store with its doors wide open.”

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