DC's Batman Podcast Grows with New Companion Series

Superhero comics are now fueling not only blockbuster films and TV shows but also expansive audio dramas and podcasts. DC has launched its most ambitious audio project yet with DC High Volume: Batman, a series adapting the Dark Knight’s most legendary comic book arcs.

However, tuning into DC High Volume: Batman alone doesn’t tell the whole story. DC is also rolling out a companion podcast within the same feed, hosted by writer and journalist Coy Jandreau. This show dives into the production process through interviews with the cast, crew, and original comic creators who shaped DC High Volume: Batman. 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 explore the series and its role as an extension of the DC High Volume: Batman narrative. Read on to discover how this companion enriches the Batman audio experience.

What Is DC High Volume: Batman?

To grasp the purpose of the companion series, it’s key to first understand DC High Volume: Batman itself. This audio drama, a collaboration between DC and podcast leader Realm, faithfully adapts iconic Batman comics like Batman: Year One. It features Jason Spisak as Bruce Wayne/Batman and Jay Paulson as Jim Gordon.

“DC High Volume is a groundbreaking project, retelling classic Batman comics in a vivid, long-form audio format,” Jandreau told IGN. “It transforms stories like Batman: Year One and The Long Halloween into immersive soundscapes with top-tier production, dynamic sound effects, talented voice actors, and a score that gives each character their own musical signature. It’s a fresh way to experience stories I’ve loved for years.”

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

“The goal is to craft a continuous Batman story in this new medium, appealing to lifelong fans like me and newcomers who may only know Batman from films or animated series,” Jandreau says. “It revisits the roots intentionally, delivering major moments in a shared universe with consistent voice actors, evolving through these classic tales.”

As a comic enthusiast, Jandreau finds the shift from a visual to an auditory medium compelling, offering a new way to experience these iconic stories.

“The audio format brings out unique emotions and perspectives,” Jandreau notes. “It’s not about losing the art but adding a rich soundscape. You can enjoy it in a car, with headphones, or even while reading the comics for a layered experience. Each approach feels distinct without diminishing the original work.”

The High Volume Companion Series

Jandreau’s companion series complements the main DC High Volume: Batman storyline, exploring the adaptation process and challenges of bringing comics to audio. Available in both audio and video formats, the first episode launches April 24, following the main series’ debut of The Long Halloween.

“This project has been in development for years, and the team always wanted to spotlight the talent behind it,” Jandreau says. “From voice actors to composers to the original comic writers and artists, the companion series highlights their contributions.”

Jandreau’s role stems from his work on the DC Studio Showcase, a bi-weekly video series on Max and YouTube, where he serves as the comic correspondent. This made him a natural fit to host the companion show.

“My work on DC Studio Showcase, tied to James Gunn and Peter Safran’s DC Studios, led to this opportunity,” Jandreau explains. “Comics are my passion, so hosting a show about adapting them in this innovative way is a dream.”

In the first episode, Jandreau and Jason Spisak discuss crafting Batman’s voice, exploring how it shifts depending on interactions with characters like Gordon or Alfred.

“Jason Spisak brings a fresh take on Batman,” Jandreau says. “In Year One, we hear Bruce Wayne evolve into the Bat. The audio format lets us explore nuances in his voice—how it changes with Gordon, Alfred, or even in his own mind as he becomes Batman.”

We asked about the companion series’ structure. Jandreau clarified that it doesn’t strictly follow each comic issue but aligns with key emotional moments in the main series.

“It’s not a rigid one-to-one format,” Jandreau says. “The first episode ties to a pivotal moment in The Long Halloween’s opening issue, allowing us to discuss character growth from Year One. My goal is to provide context that enhances the listener’s experience at the right moment.”

Jandreau drew inspiration from Inside the Actors Studio, Hot Ones, and classic talk shows like Johnny Carson and Conan O’Brien, blending long-form interviews with fresh, dynamic questions to keep the energy lively.

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The Future of DC High Volume: Batman

Jandreau hopes to interview key DC creators like Jeph Loeb, writer of The Long Halloween, and Jim Lee, who collaborated with Loeb on Batman: Hush.

“Jim Lee’s work as both an artist and a DC leader is inspiring,” Jandreau says. “His insights would be incredible. Jeph Loeb’s stories, like The Long Halloween and Dark Victory, are foundational to modern Batman adaptations. I’d love to dive deep with them.”

Jandreau also named Tom King, known for his 2016-2019 Batman run, including the polarizing Batman-Catwoman wedding storyline, as a dream guest.

“Tom King’s background, including his CIA work, gives him a unique perspective on Batman,” Jandreau says. “His writing captures Bruce Wayne’s pain and growth in a way that resonates deeply with me. A long-form talk with him would be amazing.”

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

“Fandom can be tribal because these stories mean so much,” Jandreau says. “But there’s no need for negativity. I want this show to be a welcoming space for diehard fans and newcomers alike, like an open comic shop door, celebrating Batman in a new, inclusive way.”

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