DC Unveils Batman Podcast Companion Series

Superhero comics are now fueling major podcast and audio drama projects, beyond just film and TV adaptations. DC has launched its boldest podcast venture yet with DC High Volume: Batman, a series adapting the Dark Knight’s most legendary comic storylines.

However, DC High Volume: Batman alone doesn’t tell the whole tale. DC is also 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 first 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 your Batman experience.

What Is DC High Volume: Batman?

To grasp the purpose of the companion series, it’s key to understand DC High Volume: Batman. 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 an immersive, long-form audio drama,” Jandreau told IGN. “It transforms stories like Batman: Year One and The Long Halloween into a rich audio experience with stellar production, sound effects, talented voice actors, and a score where each character has a distinct theme. It’s a fresh way to enjoy stories I’ve loved my whole life.”

Jandreau explains that the series crafts a continuous narrative, using landmark Batman graphic novels as chapters in the hero’s journey. It begins with Batman and Gordon’s origin in Year One, then advances to The Long Halloween, set in Batman’s second year.

“The goal is to create a long-running Batman saga 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 returns to the roots, delivering major moments in a shared universe with consistent voice actors, evolving through these classic tales.”

As a comic enthusiast, Jandreau finds value in experiencing these stories anew, translating a visual medium into a purely auditory one.

“Listening to these stories evokes emotions in a unique way,” Jandreau says. “It’s not about losing the art—it’s about adding audio. You can enjoy them in a car, with headphones, or on speakers, each offering a distinct experience.”

Jandreau adds, “You can also listen while reading the comics for a different experience, or share it like old-time radio by a fire. Each approach is unique, but none diminish the comic’s value. I’ve tried listening alone, while reading, or driving, and every version feels fresh without detracting from the original.”

The High Volume Companion Series

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

“This project has been in development for years, and they always wanted to spotlight the behind-the-scenes talent,” Jandreau says. “From voice actors and composers to DC staff and original comic writers and artists, they wanted 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 DC High Volume: Batman’s creation.

“I work on DC Studio Showcase, a bi-weekly show on Max and YouTube, covering DC Studios under James Gunn and Peter Safran,” Jandreau says. “As the comic correspondent, I was thrilled to take on this project. Comics are my passion, so hosting a show about adapting them is an honor.”

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

“Without spoiling the episode, Jason Spisak brings a fresh take on Batman,” Jandreau says. “In Year One, we hear Bruce Wayne becoming the Bat. Hearing the voice evolve—how Batman sounds with Gordon versus Alfred, or how Bruce’s inner voice shifts as he becomes Batman—is fascinating.”

"It's fascinating to hear the Bat voice develop, to hear it play like an equalizer and discover levels in it and how Batman sounds with Gordon versus how Batman sounds with Alfred versus how Bruce Wayne sounds with Alfred versus, what does the voice in Bruce Wayne's head sound like, and does that change as he becomes Batman?"

We asked about the series’ structure. Does each companion episode align with a chapter of DC High Volume: Batman, or is it more flexible? Jandreau clarified it’s the latter, tied to key emotional moments and plot points.

“It’s not a strict one-to-one with comic issues,” Jandreau says. “The first episode follows a major moment in The Long Halloween’s first issue, letting me explore the evolution from Year One to Long Halloween, character growth, and more. It’s about hitting emotional beats that resonate with interviewees and enhance the listener’s experience.”

We also asked if Jandreau drew inspiration from specific interview shows or companion podcasts. He cited Inside the Actors Studio, Hot Ones, and classic late-night talk shows.

“I was inspired by James Lipton’s long-form interviews, Sean Evans’ knack for fresh questions, and the energy of Johnny Carson and Conan O’Brien,” Jandreau says. “I want to blend long-form depth, unique questions, and talk-show vibrancy.”

The Top 10 Best Batman Crossovers of All Time

View 11 Images

The Future of DC High Volume: Batman

Looking forward, we asked which DC creators Jandreau hopes to interview. He named The Long Halloween writer Jeph Loeb and his Batman: Hush collaborator Jim Lee.

“Jim Lee’s creative oversight at DC, combined with his artistry, is inspiring,” Jandreau says. “His work and insights are among my favorites, and he’s shaped so many stories I love.”

Jandreau adds, “Jeph Loeb’s comics, like The Long Halloween and Dark Victory, are the backbone of many Batman adaptations. I’ve hosted his panels at cons, and I’d love a long-form chat to dive into his insights.”

“Jeph Loeb and Jim Lee are working on Batman: Hush again, making them key figures I’d love to discuss Batman with.”

Jandreau also highlighted Tom King, whose 2016-2019 Batman run included the controversial, unfulfilled Batman-Catwoman marriage.

“He used to work for the CIA, and he literally has lived a Batman-adjacent life.”

“Tom King’s CIA background gives him a unique perspective,” Jandreau says. “His take on Batman, love, women, pathos, and Bruce’s pain resonates with me. I’d love to discuss his work, especially since he’s behind Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow and other adaptations.”

Jandreau hopes his companion series fosters positivity in Batman fandom during a time when negativity often prevails.

“The internet can be hostile, especially in fandom, where passion runs deep,” Jandreau says. “Batman’s stories endure because of that passion. I want to focus on the positive, avoiding negativity in genre content. My goal is to create a welcoming space for diehard fans and newcomers alike, like a comic store with an open door.”

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