DC Unveils New Batman Podcast Companion Series

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

However, DC High Volume: Batman alone doesn’t tell the full story. DC is introducing a companion show within the same feed, hosted by writer and journalist Coy Jandreau. These episodes dive into 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 explore the companion series and its role in enhancing the DC High Volume: Batman experience. Read on to discover how it enriches the Batman saga.

What Is DC High Volume: Batman?

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

“DC High Volume is a groundbreaking project, directly adapting classic Batman comics into a sweeping audio drama,” Jandreau told IGN. “It transforms stories like Batman: Year One and The Long Halloween into immersive experiences with rich sound design, top-tier voice talent, and unique musical themes for each character, offering a fresh way to enjoy tales I’ve loved my whole life.”

Jandreau explains that the series builds a continuous narrative, using seminal Batman graphic novels as chapters in the hero’s journey. It begins with Batman and Gordon’s origin in Year One and moves into The Long Halloween, set in Batman’s second year.

“The goal is to create a long-running Batman saga in this new medium, welcoming both lifelong fans like me 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 unique appeal in experiencing these stories through sound, translating a visual medium into a purely auditory one.

“The emotion and immersion these stories evoke in audio is incredible,” Jandreau says. “It’s not about losing the art but adding a new dimension through sound. You can listen in a car, with headphones, or on big speakers—each offers a distinct experience.”

Jandreau adds, “You can even listen while reading the comics for a different layer, or enjoy it like a 1920s radio play by a fire. Each approach feels unique without diminishing the original comic’s value. I’ve tried it driving, reading, or just listening, and every version captivates.”

The High Volume Companion Series

Jandreau’s companion series complements the main DC High Volume: Batman saga, exploring the show’s production and the challenges of adapting comics for audio. Released in both audio on the DC High Volume feed and as a separate video series, the first episode premieres April 24, following the launch of The Long Halloween adaptation.

“DC always planned to spotlight the behind-the-scenes talent,” Jandreau says. “From voice actors to composers to the original comic writers and artists, they wanted listeners to connect with the creators shaping this project.”

Jandreau’s role stems from his work on DC Studio Showcase, a bi-weekly series on Max and YouTube, making him a natural fit to explore the making of DC High Volume: Batman.

“At DC Studio Showcase, I cover the comic side of DC Studios’ world under James Gunn and Peter Safran,” Jandreau explains. “That led to this opportunity, and I’m thrilled to celebrate comics in a new medium through this show.”

The first companion episode features Jason Spisak, with Jandreau teasing their discussion about crafting Batman’s voice and how it shifts depending on the character he’s with.

“Jason Spisak brings a fresh take on Batman,” Jandreau says. “In Year One, we hear Bruce Wayne becoming the Bat, and it’s fascinating to experience that vocally—how Batman sounds with Gordon versus Alfred, or how Bruce’s inner voice evolves as he becomes Batman.”

We asked about the companion series’ structure. Jandreau clarified it’s not a strict one-to-one with the main series’ episodes but tied to key moments.

“It’s not just one episode per comic issue,” Jandreau says. “The first episode follows a major moment in The Long Halloween’s opening issue, letting me explore the transition from Year One and discuss character growth. It’s about hitting emotional beats that resonate with the audience and interviewees, adding context to their experience.”

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 questions and lively energy.

The Top 10 Best Batman Crossovers of All Time

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 creative oversight at DC and his own artwork inspire me deeply,” Jandreau says. “His insights would be incredible. Jeph Loeb’s work, like The Long Halloween and Dark Victory, forms the backbone of many iconic Batman adaptations, and I’d love a deep dive with him.”

Jandreau also named Tom King, whose 2016-2019 Batman run included the notable Batman-Catwoman failed marriage, as a dream guest.

“Tom King’s lived a Batman-like life, with his CIA background,” Jandreau says. “His take on Bruce Wayne’s pain, love, and vengeance resonates with me, and his work on Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow shows his range. I’d love to discuss his Batman run in this new format.”

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

“Fandom can be tribal because these stories mean so much,” Jandreau says. “Batman’s endured for decades because of that passion. I want this show to be a positive space, welcoming diehard fans and newcomers alike, like a 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.