Dollar Bin Bandits

Since he was a child, Travis Landry has been part of the auction and antique community. Today, you can find him appraising treasures on the hit PBS show Antiques Roadshow, where he works in pop culture, comics, cards, toys and more. All the things we love, he loves too, and it comes across in this interview and on screen. Check out his own auction house, Landry Pop Auctions, here: landrypop.com.

You can follow Travis on Instagram @popculturetravis.

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Independent comic creator and veteran Michael Oden has created worlds of fantasy and action, including his latest project Elysian Fields: Reborn! This tale features beautiful art set during mythical Ancient Rome. Michael has also created titles such as The Embrace, Judex, SPQR's Bizarre Adventure, American Bliss: Father's Pride, and others under his 9 Realms Publishing imprint.

You can follow Michael and 9 Realms on Instagram @9rpcomics.

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Our latest is a deep dive with acclaimed comic book writer Steve Orlando, exploring his journey from 12-year-old aspiring writer to becoming one of the most prominent voices in superhero comics. Steve discusses his breakthrough work launching the 2015 Midnighter series and its sequel Midnighter and Apollo, both of which earned GLAAD Media Award nominations, and how he approached writing those characters with authenticity and respect. We explore his major DC work including runs on Supergirl and Justice League of America as part of the DC Rebirth initiative, as well...

The terrific man behind Terrificon is back! That's right, we welcome Mitch Hallock to talk all things Terrificon 2025, as he prepares for the convention's milestone 10th anniversary celebration at Mohegan Sun Resort and Casino from August 8-10. Mitch discusses how his Big Fedora Marketing is bringing more guests, more surprises, and more fun to Connecticut's premier comic convention for this anniversary year, and shares his journey from comic fan to creating what has become the largest gathering of comic book creators in New England. We explore the convention's growth since its 2012 launch, the...

Today, we welcome legendary alternative comics creator Evan Dorkin for a wild and woolly interview that (sometimes) explores his unique career and projects. He shares his origin story of discovering comics as a kid growing up in Brooklyn and Staten Island, working at comic retailer Jim Hanley's store during high school, and his transition from wanting to study animation at the School of Visual Arts to focusing on comics at NYU. We jump into his cult classics Milk and Cheese and Dork (from Slave Labor Graphics), discussing the independent comics scene...

In this episode, we sit down with veteran writer Glenn Greenberg to explore his diverse career spanning comic books, journalism, and fiction writing. Glenn shares his journey from becoming a regular Marvel Comics writer, penning stories for iconic titles like The Spectacular Spider-Man, The Rampaging Hulk, The Silver Surfer, and Dracula, to his transition into broader entertainment writing. We dive into his work on the beloved Star Trek: Untold Voyages series, which depicted Captain Kirk's second five-year mission and became a fan favorite, leading to his expansion...

Legendary comic writer Mike Baron is back to discuss the beginning! That's right, we're talking about the origins of his and Steve Rude's landmark Nexus series to celebrate the Kickstarter campaign for the Nexus Deluxe Hardcover Omnibus Volume One. Mike opens up about the deluxe reprint collection of the Eisner Award-winning series, which Newsarama has hailed as "the greatest superhero comic of all time." We explore the cosmic avenger Horatio Hellpop's complex moral struggles, the series' unique blend of superhero and science fiction elements set 500 years in the future, and what it means to see...

Mark Waid is back with the Bandits for his fourth solo appearance, as we dive into his latest projects and thoughts on the current state of Superman. First we jump into James Gunn's recently released Superman film and get Mark's takes, specifically on the approach to Jor-El and Lara's portrayal and whether the movie successfully captures the optimism that defines the character. The core of the conversation centers around Mark's "dream project," New History of the DC Universe, and the challenges of weaving 90 years of DC continuity into one cohesive timeline. Mark also...

In this audio-only episode, we sit down with Canadian-Brazilian filmmaker Marcus Alqueres to explore his unique journey from visual effects artist to acclaimed director and his innovative approach to superhero storytelling. Marcus shares his background working in visual effects on blockbusters like 300, Rise of The Planet of The Apes, and Tintin before transitioning to directing with his breakthrough short film The Flying Man. The viral 2015 short, which garnered over 20 million views, offers a dark and thought-provoking examination of vigilante justice that caught the attention of Sony/Columbia Pictures, who...

In this episode, we sit down with legendary creator Bill Willingham to explore his remarkable journey from role-playing game artist to one of comics' most celebrated storytellers. Bill opens up about his early days working on RPGs and how that experience shaped his approach to worldbuilding in comics. From his 1980s creator-owned series Elementals to his 150+ issue, career-defining work on Fables, we dive deep into his storytelling career, while comparing the comics landscape of then versus now. Bill shares insights into his research process for incorporating folklore and mythology into his stories and...

In this episode, we sit down with Dan Greenfield, editor-in-chief of 13th Dimension and veteran comic book journalist, to explore his journey from a 5-year-old Batman fan to becoming one of the most respected voices in comics journalism today. Dan shares the origin story behind 13th Dimension and its mission covering comics, creators, and culture. We also discuss how comic journalism has evolved in the digital age, and what insights he's gleaned from interviews with legendary creators like Neal Adams and Chip Kidd. We dive into his particular obsession with Batman comics, tracing his love...

In this episode, we sit down with multi-talented comic creator Sam J. Royale to explore his diversity of work spanning anthology comics, graphic design, and paranormal storytelling. Sam breaks down his anthology series Dishoom, discusses his creative decision-making process across projects like Pariah: Many Lands and the paranormal zine Kala Jadoo (complete with trading card set), and reveals how his graphic design background influences everything from logo creation to comic layout. We dive into his relationship with Cosmic Lion Productions, his experience working with past guest Michael Fitzgerald Troy...

In this conversation with legendary writer Gerry Conway, we explore what makes his stories so compelling. From character development and inspirations to what he considers his best work, the noted scribe opens up about his creative process and more!

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We're delivering the fireworks early, as we sit down with acclaimed artist Terry Dodson to explore his remarkable 30+ year career! From the early days breaking in during the 90s to his current collaboration with Matt Fraction on the pulp-inspired Adventureman, Terry opens up about developing his signature style, his creative partnership with wife Rachel, and the challenges of drawing some of comics' most beloved characters including Wonder Woman, Spider-Man, and Harley Quinn. We dive deep into his approach to character design, discuss memorable projects with Mark Millar and Kevin...

In this episode, we welcome back legendary comic book artist and writer Jerry Ordway to celebrate and discuss the 30th anniversary of his defining work on DC's The Power of Shazam! The graphic novel and subsequent ongoing series helped revitalize the World's Mightiest Mortal for a new generation, and Jerry shares the creative challenges of modernizing the classic Fawcett Comics characters while maintaining their timeless appeal and family-friendly tone. He discusses how his approach balanced the whimsical magic of Billy Batson's world with more contemporary storytelling sensibilities, creating a version of Captain Marvel that honored...

In this episode, we welcome comic book creators Vince Sunico and Terry Kavanagh to talk about their exciting new Kickstarter project, Heroes Be Damned. Vince, known for his dynamic artwork and storytelling, teams up with Terry, whose extensive career includes work on major Marvel titles like X-Men and Spider-Man, to bring fans a dark and gritty tale that turns the superhero genre on its head. The duo discusses their creative process, the challenges of launching an independent comic in today's market, and why they believe now is the perfect time for...

On the occasion of the 50th anniversary of Jaws, we're joined by Marty Milner to discuss his work on Steven Spielberg's legendary thriller. Marty takes us behind the scenes of one of cinema's most influential films, sharing insights into the production challenges, the infamous mechanical shark "Bruce," and the innovative filmmaking techniques that helped create a summer blockbuster phenomenon. We explore how the film's troubled production on Martha's Vineyard ultimately led to some of its greatest strengths, the collaborative process with Spielberg during his early career, and the lasting impact Jaws had on both the...

Writer Mark Russell joins us to discuss his path into comics, beginning with his breakthrough work God Is Disappointed in You, a satirical retelling of the Bible with cartoons by Shannon Wheeler that launched his unique career. We explore Mark's knack for breathing new life into seemingly impossible properties, from the reboot Prez and his surprising take on The Flintstones to his bold reimagining of Snagglepuss as a gay playwright facing McCarthyism in Exit, Stage Left!: The Snagglepuss Chronicles. Mark reveals his attraction to underestimated and dormant...

Brazilian creator Sam Fonseca joins us to discuss his journey from discovering comics to becoming a distinctive voice in the cartooning community. We explore his early days self-publishing in São Paulo's independent scene and how those formative experiences shaped his creative perspective. Sam walks us through his acclaimed works including the HQMix Prize-nominated Age of Rust and the lighthearted webcomic Dynamite & Laser Beam, before diving deep into his latest graphic novel Shadowplay: Midnight School. The haunting tale centers on a school plagued by recurring nightmares, and Sam reveals the inspiration b...

Today we welcome acclaimed Australian comic book artist Nicola Scott to discuss her journey from Sydney theater and costume design to becoming one of the most celebrated artists in the American comic book industry. With a history in theater and costume design, Nicola started pursuing a comics career in 2001 and by 2006 was the first Australian to become a staple of the U.S. mainstream, establishing herself through stunning work on DC titles including Birds of Prey, Secret Six, Teen Titans, and Earth 2. In 2016, she and writer Greg Rucka relaunched Wonder Woman...

Today, we've got accomplished Marvel artist and character creator Tom Rasch to explore his diverse career spanning film, video games, and comics. Tom shares his journey from penciling titles like Punisher 2099 to becoming a sought-after concept artist for video games and film projects, including his redesign of the Hardy Boys for Nancy Drew Games and his work on Sony PlayStation Network titles. Tom discusses his transition into creating original intellectual properties, particularly his breakout character Black Alpha, which gained mainstream recognition through USA Today and merchandise appearances on CBS's "The Big...

In this episode, we sit down with veteran writer/editor Tom Peyer for a career-spanning conversation that traces his remarkable journey from underground cartoonist to one of today's most innovative publishers. Beginning with his early years in underground papers and the Syracuse New Times, we delve into his pivotal editorial years at DC and Vertigo during the transformative 90s era. Tom shares insights from his beloved tenure on Legion of Super-Heroes, his creative vision for reviving Hourman, and his collaborative process with writers like Mark Waid. We spend a lot of...

3...2...1...Ignition! Today, we welcome Filip Sablik and Jeremy Haun to discuss their ambitious new venture, Ignition Press. Launched in late 2024, the company represents a bold new chapter for Filip, who departed his role as President of Publishing & Marketing at BOOM! Studios after 12 years, and Jeremy, the acclaimed creator known for works like The Beauty. Joined by former IDW Editor-in-Chief Jamie S. Rich and film producer Eric Gitter, the team has assembled to create something different in the comics publishing landscape, focusing on horror, science fiction, crime, and fantasy while eschewing traditional superhero fare...

In this episode, we sit down with legendary artist-writer Phil Jimenez for an in-depth conversation spanning his remarkable three-decade career. From his early discovery of comics to his incredible break into the industry with four pages in DC's War of the Gods crossover, Phil shares his journey of sequential art success. We explore his evolution from artist to artist-writer with Tempest, his relationships with mentors Neal Pozner and George Perez, and his following in Perez's footsteps on iconic titles like Teen Titans and Wonder Woman...

In this episode, we dive deep into the creative mind of Eisner Award-winning artist Gideon Kendall, whose diverse career has spanned books, illustrations, comics, and animation for a few outfits you might have heard of: MAD Magazine, Penguin/Putnam, Disney, Comixology/Kitchen Sink, IDW, Dark Horse, Cartoon Network, Scholastic, and The New York Times. Gideon has made significant contributions to both children's and adult comics, earning critical acclaim as the artist of Harvey Kurtzman's Marley's Ghost (which won the 2018 Eisner Award for Best Digital Comic), and as the writer and artist...

He's baaaaaaaaack! The legendary Roy Thomas returns to the DBB hot seat, and Oren gets his crack at the writer/editor's career. It's a deep dive into Roy's writing approach, style, and craft, so get to listening, Banditos!

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If you like this podcast, please rate, review, and subscribe on Apple Podcasts or wherever you found this episode. And if you really like...

Dan "The Man" Brereton is back with the Bandits, this time talking up his new art book, Nocturnals 31. Just in time for the "Halloweeniversary" of Dan's hit monster noir comic, The Nocturnals, this book is chock full of all the supernatural goodness you've come to expect. It's got the monsters, it's got the babes, it's got that haunting atmosphere that takes your breath away.

You've got only a few days left to back Nocturnals 31 on Kickstarter here: http://kck.st/42RqwlG! And you can always follow Dan's work on <...

This week, we're joined by acclaimed comic book writer Todd Dezago! Known for his character-driven storytelling and gift for collaboration, Todd takes us behind the scenes of his influential run on Sensational Spider-Man with Mike Wieringo that redefined Peter Parker for a generation of readers. We explore the creation of their creator-owned fantasy epic Tellos, a vibrant world of swashbuckling adventure that showcased both creators at the height of their powers while tragically serving as one of Wieringo's final major works before his untimely passing. Todd shares candid insights about his...

Jim Roche might have the coolest job as one of the executive producers on the hit show Svengoolie. In that time on the program, he and Rich Koz (Svengoolie) have become extremely close friends. But did you know Jim is also a huge comic book fan? He’s practically another Dollar Bin Bandit with his love of old and modern books found in those treasured bins. 

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This week, we're thrilled to welcome legendary comic book inker Bob Almond! With over three decades of experience for Marvel, DC, and independent publishers, Bob takes us deep into the process of transforming rough pencils into print-ready illustrations. From his early days working on Warlock and the Infinity Watch to high-profile projects including Black Panther, Annihilation: Conquest - Quasar, Archer & Armstrong: First Impressions, and Heroes for Hire, he shares candid stories about collaborating with industry giants while championing the crucial role inkers play in the creative process. We also explore his...

Whether it’s Power Records, Peter Pan Records, or other companies that produced kid friendly albums from the 50s through 80s, Brian Washington is the guy to talk to! With his incredible collection, he’s a walking encyclopedia for these audio treasures. 

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If you like this podcast, please rate, review, and subscribe on Apple Podcasts or where...

Today, we welcome acclaimed graphic novelist Craig Thompson to discuss his latest tome, Ginseng Roots. In this deeply personal book, Thompson returns to his rural Wisconsin roots to explore the fascinating world of ginseng cultivation that shaped his childhood. The conversation spans Craig's artistic evolution since his breakthrough memoir Blankets, his research trips to China that informed the book's historical elements, and how his early farming experiences continue to influence his creative process.

You can keep up with Craig's latest work and appearances through his official website  craigthompsonbooks.com

This week on Dollar Bin Bandits, we sit down with the multi-talented Tom Marvelli, a powerhouse creative whose fingerprints are all over some of the biggest superhero franchises of the last two decades. From his days at Marvel during its post-bankruptcy rebirth to shaping the futures of Hasbro’s legendary action brands, Tom’s career has been nothing short of epic.

Tom is now turning the page—literally—by launching a self-produced graphic novel series The Boy in the Bot from his new imprint, Another Door Comics. He’s bringing decades of industr...

Ralph Macchio spent over four decades at Marvel Comics, serving as a writer, editor, and eventually Executive Editor during some of the company's most transformative periods. Beginning his career in the 1970s as an assistant to Roy Thomas, Ralph went on to edit many of Marvel's flagship titles including Daredevil, Thor, and The Avengers, overseeing Frank Miller's revolutionary run on Daredevil, Walter Simonson's legendary work on Thor, and collaborating with legendary artists like John Buscema on Conan the Barbarian. In addition to his...

In this episode, we roll out with Bob Budiansky and Simon Furman, the legendary minds behind the original Transformers comics from Marvel and Marvel UK respectively. With Skybound's massive compendiums reigniting interest in both series, we dive deep into how a Japanese toy line transformed into a pop culture juggernaut. Bob shares how Transformers first landed on his desk at Marvel and the challenges of writing 50+ issues while constantly introducing new characters. Simon discusses navigating the complexities of fitting UK stories around US continuity and eventually taking over the US title himself...