GVN Talking Comics Review: Rodney Barnes Guests on The Superfan Podcast Episode 1

The Superfan Podcast

When interviewing with a creator, it’s common to center the discussion on the project you want to promote. This is even more crucial when your time with them is limited. But as with any person, creators and their creations are just a small part of what makes them who they are. They have interests, hobbies, and loves beyond their public persona. That is where “The Superfan Podcast” comes in.

Comic veterans Editor Kristen Simon, Artist Christian Gossett, and PR Professional David Hyde host a show exploring their guests’ passions and inspirations outside of their creative work. Episode 1 premiered on September 19th, featuring the talented writer and television producer Rodney Barnes.

The Guest Has the Floor

The first thing that stands out, and one of the podcast’s strong points, is the hosts’ willingness to allow their guests to do most of the talking. They ask concise and thoughtful questions, then give their guests the freedom to respond with as much detail and insight as they feel is necessary. With Rodney Barnes, this led to great stories about his love of Stephen King and how that evolved since his childhood.

Although it should come as no surprise, Rodney is just as adept with an oral story as he is with a written one. The story of “The Green Mile” is truly worth taking the time to listen to on its own. Throughout, Rodney’s admiration and respect for Mr. King and his writing shine through in every response. Which is, in essence, the point of the show. Learning that our favorite creators geek out about their faves just like we do.

Ending in a Dinner Party Atmosphere

Along the way, hosts Simon, Gossett, and Hyde keep things moving, but you can almost sense their fascination with what Rodney has to say and their reluctance to intervene except when necessary. This is a talent that all hosts should have, and it makes The Superfan Podcast an informative and entertaining listen. In addition, at the end of the conversation, the hosts share an appropriate Cocktail or Mocktail and a dessert recipe that symbolizes the topic of the show. It’s a delightful little touch that adds a cozy, homey feel, as if you’ve just settled in for a dinner party.

If You Are a Comic Fan…”You Can’t Go Wrong”

If you are a comic fan and have wondered what your favorite creators do when they’re not entertaining you and meeting deadlines, then “The Superfan Podcast” is for you. Future guests include Marc Guggenheim, Kelly Sue DeConnick, Matt Kindt, Marjorie Liu, and Patrick McDonnell. If episode one is any indication, it will become a weekly must-listen. Great guests with amazing stories…You can’t go wrong.