Shows
Radio Free KryptonThe Death of Radio Free KryptonHere we are, friends, the end. As Krypton explodes, we say our farewells to old co-hosts, esteemed guests, and good friends. Originally broadcast by CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. Produced by Jacob Dubé and Justin Chandler.
2022-04-2157 minRadio Free KryptonRamón Perez on RAID, collaborating on comics, and a life-sized Boba FettThis week, hosts Justin and Jacob talk to Ramón Perez, an award-winning comic creator and the managing director of the Royal Academy of Illustration and Design, or RAID, a Toronto-based artist collective and one of the pillars of the city's comics community. We talk about making comics in a collaborative space, RAID's upcoming books, and what it's like having a life-sized Boba Fett statue as a roommate. RFK airs first on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. This episode was produced by Jacob Dubé.
2022-03-2425 minRadio Free KryptonCathon, The Adventures of Sgoobidoo, and a throwback to old Archie ComicsThis week, hosts Jacob and Justin discuss The Adventures of Sgoobidoo, a new book from Quebec's Pow Pow Press and a funny take on old Archie digests and detective stories. With the help of some insight from the author, Cathon (who isn't on the show but has graciously remotely answered our questions), we discuss absurdity, old Archie comics advertisements, and the importance of setting in storytelling. Originally broadcast on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. Produced by Jacob Dubé.
2022-02-2423 minRadio Free KryptonRadio Free Rewind - "Hawkeye: My Life as a Weapon" — The comic that inspired the show, feat. More or LesIn this episode from 2018, Toronto rapper More or Les tells RFK why he loves the comic "Hawkeye: My Life as a Weapon" — the book that inspired the new Disney+ show. Listen for insight on the private life of the arrow-slinging superhero, and how to make a lower-stakes story work. RFK airs first on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. This episode was originally produced by Jacob Dubé. The rebroadcast was produced by Justin Chandler.
2022-01-1330 minRadio Free KryptonYear in Review: 2021 was a weird one, but passions shone through2021 marked another year of RFK at home, but hosts Justin and Jacob take a look back at their favourite moments, comics, and episodes of the year. We talk about Trese, Dying for Attention, and how we're not making any predictions for 2022. Thanks to all our listeners and supporters for hanging with us for another year! Originally broadcast on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. Produced by Jacob Dubé.
2021-12-3026 minRadio Free KryptonErika Chung on racialized women in fandom, harassment and communityThis week, hosts Justin and Jacob speak to Erika Chung, a PhD candidate at X University and York University conducting a study on racialized women and their experiences in comic book fandoms. We talk about her research, harassment and gatekeeping in the community, and why some choose not to join it at all. Originally broadcast on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. Produced by Jacob Dubé.
2021-12-0228 minRadio Free KryptonBrigitte Archambault on The Shiatsung Project and getting too close to AIThe younger generations have grown up in a world where smartphones and the internet have always existed, but how has that affected us? This week, hosts Justin and Jacob speak with Brigitte Archambault, a multi-disciplinary artist and creator of the new comic The Shiatsung Project, about a woman trapped in a strange compound, with only a mysterious artificial intelligence named Shiatsung to take care of her. We talk about the prominence of AI, portraying sexuality in comics, and how she independently created the book in a break between her other works. Originally broadcast on CJRU 1280 AM in...
2021-11-0427 minRadio Free KryptonShades of Fear and why you can't escape from horror comicsIt's October, so we're getting spooky again. This week, hosts Justin and Jacob talk to friend of the show Allison O'Toole and comic creators Tess Eneli Reid and Joy San about Shades of Fear, a new horror anthology now up on Kickstarter co-edited by Allison and Ashanti Fortson. We talk about the anthology, how to use colour in a horror story, and why comics might be one of the best mediums for horror. Listen, if you dare. Originally broadcast on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. Produced by Jacob Dubé.
2021-10-0728 minRadio Free KryptonStephanie Cooke and Megan Huang on the vibrant, silent stories of "Life"If you were creating whole new forms of life, where would you begin? On RFK today, hosts Justin and Jacob ask that question to Megan Huang and Stephanie Cooke, whose recently crowd-funded comic, Life: Beauty, Wonder, Danger is coming out through Toronto Comix Press. We talk about building vibrant creatures and worlds and the struggles (and advantages) of writing a silent comic. This episode was originally broadcast on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. Produced by Jacob Dubé.
2021-08-2628 minRadio Free KryptonRadio Free Rewind: "Plummet" author Sherwin Tija on climate change and experiencing freefallThe world is still on fire, and scientists tell us there's less and less time to take action to stop the worst effects. So for this week, we're bringing back our 2019 interview with artist and writer Sherwin Tija, author of "Plummet". Tija channeled a sense of hopelessness when making "Plummet," a new comic in which a woman wakes up to find herself falling, with no end in sight. Sherwin tells Jacob about the emotions behind the story, which was inspired in part by the September 11 attacks. They also discuss the technical work that went into dr...
2021-08-1229 minRadio Free KryptonShawn Daley on chiptunes and the never-ending desire to self-improveHosts Justin and Jacob catch up with returning guest and show-favourite Shawn Daley, author of The Bridgebuilder's Creed and TerraQuill, to talk about his chiptunes albums, how they relate to his comics, and how he almost didn't finish The Bridgebuilder's Creed at all. Originally broadcast on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. Produced by Jacob Dubé. Special thanks to Matthew Sauder.
2021-07-1528 minRadio Free KryptonDax Gordine on Forest Folk and reliving the magic of newspaper comicsThis week, hosts Justin and Jacob interview Dax Gordine. He's a Niagara cartoonist and concept artist who makes the webcomic Forest Folk. Working with Toronto's RAID comic artists collective, he's crowdfunded a print edition of 105 strips of the comic. Dax tells us about Forest Folk, which he describes as Looney Tunes meets Calvin and Hobbes, and about being on RAID's first crowdfunding campaign. Originally broadcast on CJRU 1280AM in Toronto. Produced by Jacob Dubé.
2021-06-1727 minRadio Free KryptonCelebrating the 80th anniversary of Canadian Comics with Sequential MagazineAll the way back in 1941, the first comic book ever published in Canada was released. To commemorate the occasion, Sequential Magazine has dedicated their entire latest issue to the achievement. Hosts Justin and Jacob talk to Editor-in-Chief Brendan Montgomery and comics historian Ivan Kocmarek about how it started, and where we went from there. Originally broadcast on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. Produced by Jacob Dubé.
2021-05-2028 minRadio Free KryptonLuke Humphris on "Drunk Days", alcoholism, and how writing about it helpedHosts Jacob and Justin talk to comic creator Luke Humphris, author of Drunk Days, a personal graphic novel detailing his struggles, and recovery from, alcoholism. We talk about writing as a way to process your feelings, toxic masculinity, and fighting a kaiju version of Ross Geller. CW: This episode deals with discussions of addiction and alcoholism. This episode was originally broadcast on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. Produced by Jacob Dubé.
2021-04-2227 minRadio Free KryptonToronto lawyer Caryma Sa'd is making sense of the news through her editorial cartoonsLike a lot of comic creators we interview, Caryma Sa'd has a side gig. But in a first for our show, that side-gig is being a lawyer. Hosts Jacob and Justin speak to Sa'd about her editorial cartoons, criticizing the policies and actions of provincial and municipal politicians (sometimes in tutus), and how she parses the often-depressing media landscape. This episode was originally broadcast on CJRU 1280 AM . Produced by Jacob Dubé.
2021-03-2528 minRadio Free KryptonRadio Free Rewind: Jason Lutes on Berlin, fascism and spending 22 years on one bookhost Jacob Dubé speaks with comic creator Jason Lutes about Berlin, a huge 800-page epic telling the stories of the citizens of the German capital between the two World Wars. They talk about the 22-year creation of the book and the everyday stories of those experiencing the rise of fascism in their neighbourhoods. Also, RPGs. RFK airs first on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. Produced by Mitchell Thompson.
2021-03-1128 minRadio Free KryptonThe wonderful weirdness of WandaVision, and the future of comic book cinemaFriend of the show Christine Chua joins Justin and Jacob for a rousing chat about the future of Marvel movies and TV. Does the wonderfully weird WandaVision signal a shift? If movie continuity gets complicated like its source material, will it still be accessible? How is Christine surviving without movies and comic conventions? This woman needs to cosplay! RFK airs first on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. This episode was produced by Jacob Dubé.
2021-02-1127 minRadio Free KryptonHighlights from a tough year for comic creatorsThe comic industry has been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic, with independent creators feeling it the most. But throughout the year, we've heard inspiring stories from many creators who are trying to make it work despite it all. In this episode, we revisit our interview with Eric Kostiuk Williams on writing comics about COVID loneliness, and our talk with Sylvia Nickerson about gentrification and art in Hamilton. This episode was originally broadcast on CJRU 1280 AM. Produced by Jacob Dubé.
2020-12-3127 minRadio Free KryptonChildhood, parenting, and horror with Dakota McFazdeanHosts Justin and Jacob speak with Canadian comic creator Dakota McFazdean about his new collection of short stories, To Know You're Alive, that features some new and old stories of his. We talk about writing about the weirdness of childhood, and the new perspectives of parenting. Originally broadcast on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. Produced by Jacob Dubé.
2020-12-0328 minRadio Free KryptonPeter Nowak says real-life superheroes walk among usYou know the scene in the superhero movie where the hero is inspired to do good by reading another comic book? What happens when that occurs in real life? This week, Justin speaks to author Peter Nowak about his new book, The Rise of Real-Life Superheroes and the Fall of Everything Else, about the deep and sometimes complicated world of real-world caped crusaders. Originally broadcast on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. Produced by Jacob Dubé. Stay tuned for the CJRU fund drive, starting Nov. 13!
2020-11-0529 minRadio Free KryptonRadio Free Rewind: Twisted Dark with Neil GibsonWe're taking it back to 2017, where Jacob goes solo and speaks with Neil Gibson, the author of Twisted Dark, a huge, thrilling, and incredibly organized series of connected stories. We talk about the books, comic TV shows, and some tips on good comic storytelling. Originally broadcast on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. Produced by Jacob Dubé.
2020-10-0829 minRadio Free KryptonRadio Free Rewind: Crisis of Toxic Nerds - Comics EditionFor this year's CJRU fund drive, we partnered with the station's gaming show, Built to Play, to bring you "Crisis of Toxic Nerds," a two-part documentary investigating where the toxicity in geek culture comes from, and what we can do about it. Listen to their part, all about video games, here. In this part, RFK hosts Justin and Jacob try to make sense of an old beast with a new face: Comicsgate. They speak to comics writer and editor Stephanie Cooke, rapper More or Les, professor Benjamin Woo and writer and PhD candidate Safiyya Hosein about how toxicity...
2020-09-2432 minRadio Free KryptonID-10T Error and Kickstarting your comics careerEspecially in a time where going outside and meeting strangers might not be the best plan, listen in as Jacob speaks to Matt McGrath, creator of the upcoming comic ID-10T Error, about the challenges of funding a comic through Kickstarter, and getting noticed in the comics world without going to conventions. Originally broadcast on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. Produced by Jacob Dubé.
2020-09-1029 minRadio Free KryptonChickenman is everywhere! Lisa Orkin on re-releasing the beloved radio seriesIn the mid '60s, with Batman big on TV, legendary radio man Dick Orkin brought Chickenman to air. The audio comedy gained a loyal following and still plays on the radio. Now, Orkin's daughter Lisa is re-releasing the series on streaming platforms. Justin and Jacob talk to the Los Angeles creator about the program, its revival, what it was like working with her dad, and lessons for radio she's still using today. RFK airs first on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. This episode was produced by Jacob Dubé. You can support the station on Patreon here...
2020-08-1335 minRadio Free KryptonRediscovering '90s comics with Dave HowlettFor the coveted 150th episode of RFK, hosts Justin and Jacob talk to Dave Howlett, manager of the Strange Adventures comics shop in Halifax, and creator of the new comic series The Makers. We talk about running a comics store during a pandemic, and creating a tribute to the buff, edgy, but exciting era of '90s comics. RFK airs first on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. This episode was produced by Jacob Dubé.
2020-07-1641 minRadio Free Krypton"A book on acid" — J.B. Lion's Seventh Spark is a multimedia fantasy sagaAmerican author J.B. Lion's upcoming Seventh Spark series spins a fantasy yarn about good, evil and humanity's flaws. He tells host Jacob Dubé about his unique multimedia approach to storytelling. J.B. also shares how events like the police killing of George Floyd and the subsequent protests against anti-Black racism inform his work. RFK airs first on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. This episode was produced by Justin Chandler.
2020-07-0228 minRadio Free KryptonFrancis Desharnais on Quebec's own Little RussiaHosts Justin and Jacob speak with Francis Desharnais, author of a graphic novel recollecting the story of Guyenne, a small Quebec town that operates entirely as a collective, where every villager shares what they have with the rest, which gave the village the nickname 'Little Russia'. Desharnais talks about speaking to family members who lived in the village, how to properly retell their stories and what he's learned from the experience. RFK is broadcast first on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. This episode was produced by Jacob Dubé.
2020-06-1828 minRadio Free KryptonFrom Spongebob to Sloths, Graham Annable's done it allCanadian-born cartoonist and animator Graham Annable tells Justin and Jacob about the book he would have released at TCAF, and what he's learned throughout his varied career. Graham's latest work is the third in his Peter and Ernesto early reader series called Sloths in the Night. He's also the Oscar-nominated co-director of The Boxtrolls movie and has a long history in animation, with stints at LucasArts and Telltale. He's even done Spongebob comics. This episode was produced by Justin Chandler. RFK airs first on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. Please support our show and th...
2020-05-2829 minRadio Free KryptonDigital conventions and lopping (even more) heads with Andrew MacLeanHosts Jacob Dubé and Justin Chandler speak with fan-favourite comic creator Andrew MacLean, creator of Head Lopper and Apocalyptigirl, about staying afloat in a shaky comic industry, as well as taking Head Lopper in a more emotional direction in the latest volume. Originally broadcast on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. Produced by Jacob Dubé. You can support the station and our show on Patreon.
2020-05-2139 minRadio Free KryptonWordburglar delivers Snakor's PizzaSean Jordan — AKA the rapper Wordburglar — tells Jacob and Justin about a comics project he's bringing back and shares how he's staying creative during the pandemic. He also digs into some reading recommendations in case your comics pile is getting a little low. RFK airs first on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. You can support the station and our show on Patreon. This episode was produced by Justin Chandler. Stay safe!
2020-05-0730 minRadio Free KryptonCartoonist Eric Kostiuk Williams on making comics for the pandemicMaking comics is a solitary business. Making comics in the pandemic? Even more so. Toronto cartoonist Eric Kostiuk Williams joins RFK to talk about his new pandemic comics for Now, which have covered quarantine dance parties and lonely walks through Ontario Place. He also shares how a Grant Morrison book club got him a gig designing an album cover for rock band F*cked Up. Radio Free Krypton airs first on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. This episode was produced by Jacob Dubé. You can support RFK and the station on Patreon.
2020-04-2340 minRadio Free KryptonMegan Huang on "Jia and the Nian Monster" and drawing crossoversMississauga, Ont. artist Megan Huang tells Justin and Jacob what it's been like for her to navigate the comics world. They discuss her newest project "Jia and the Nian Monster" and her love of crossovers. Megan also shares what she's been up to since the pandemic threw a wrench into what would have been a month of celebrating new releases. Radio Free Krypton airs first on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. This episode was produced by Justin Chandler. You can support RFK and the station on Patreon.
2020-04-0928 minRadio Free KryptonCOVID-19 cancelled comic conventions and that's bad news for indie creatorsFrom a safe social distance, Toronto comic artist Shane Heron tells Justin and Jacob what the cancellation of upcoming comic conventions means for the launch of his newest project: the latest issue of Cauldron Magazine. March's Toronto Comicon was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic and so was May's Toronto Comics Art Festival (TCAF). On top of that, comic stores are closing and Diamond Comic Distributors is no longer shipping books to shops. All of it is bad news for small-time comic creators and comics retailers. RFK airs first on CJRU 1280 AM in Tor...
2020-03-2623 minRadio Free KryptonKat Verhoeven on making "Meat and Bone"Toronto creator Kat Verhoeven joins Jacob to discuss Meat and Bone, her web-comic-turned book in which an ensemble cast deals with problems including body-image issues and eating disorders. Kat tells Jacob about the process of publishing a web-comic in print and about the personal toll of telling such a sensitive story. RFK airs first on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. You can support the station and out show on Patreon. This episode was produced by Jacob Dubé.
2020-01-0929 minRadio Free KryptonRadio Free Rewind: Dennis O'Neil and Kelsey Wroten on how writing affects the writerSometimes writers don't love what they've written. Sometimes comics get misinterpreted. Sometimes one's feelings on what they wrote change with time. In clips from two of our favourite shows this year, comic creators Dennis O'Neil and Kelsey Wroten candidly reflect on their work. Dennis O'Neil is an iconic writer famous for his work on Batman and Green Arrow/Green Lantern in the 1970s. Hear the full interview with him here. Kelsey Wroten is an editorial cartoonist and writer of the book "Cannonball." Hear the full interview with her here. RFK airs firs...
2019-12-2625 minRadio Free Krypton"Plummet" author Sherwin Tija on climate change and experiencing freefall Montreal-based but Toronto-born artist and writer Sherwin Tija channeled a sense of hopelessness when making "Plummet," a new comic in which a woman wakes up to find herself falling, with no end in sight. Sherwin tells Jacob about the emotions behind the story, which was inspired in part by the September 11 attacks. They also discuss the technical work that went into drawing a book where everything is falling. This interview was recorded in November 2019. RFK airs first on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. This episode was produced by Jacob Dubé.
2019-12-1229 minRadio Free KryptonMultiple choice: Trying to understand "Joker"Was Joker a powerful wake-up call about marginalization and inequality? A dangerous call to would-be violent offenders? A fake-deep art project disguised as more? Maybe it's like the titular character once said he prefers: a backstory that's multiple choice. Justin and Jacob discuss alongside friend of the show Ally Enrile. Spoilers! Please help support campus radio at Ryerson University by pledging to our Patreon. RFK airs first on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. This episode was produced by Jacob Dubé. Related reading based on what we discussed in this episode:
2019-10-1731 minRadio Free KryptonInside the Orbit of Prisoners of Gravity: Complete EditionLast year, we published a four-part documentary series all about Prisoners of Gravity, a sci-fi and comics television show that aired on TVO in the early '90s. We went deep into the show's rise and subsequent fall, but also how, even years later, viewers fondly remember how the show's in-depth discussions about comics shaped their nerdy lives. This week, we've combined all four episodes into a feature-length podcast doc for your listening pleasure. It's out of this world! Originally broadcast and supported by CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. Written and reported by Justin Chandler and Mitchell Thompson...
2019-09-051h 44Radio Free KryptonD&D extravaganza with Allison O'Toole, Jason Loo and Nathaniel CrouchWith their skills in character creation and world building, comic creators are some of the biggest fans of tabletop RPGs. In this episode, we put their skills to the test. Join co-host Jacob as he plays an arcane Dungeons & Dragons game with friends of the show Allison O'Toole and Jason Loo, DM'ed by the wonderful Nathaniel Crouch. Can a grad student, a buff goliath, and a used-car salesman defeat the threats of a magic castle? Roll initiative and find out! Originally broadcast on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. Produced by Justin Chandler and Jacob Dube. Like...
2019-08-221h 55Radio Free KryptonScott Ford's rules for making comicsBefore he makes comics, Winnipeg author and artist Scott Ford makes rules. Scott build virtual sets and plans ahead by plotting things like page size and panel shape to focus his creativity. He tells hosts Justin Chandler and Jacob Dubé how that process translates into the vivid fantasies he creates in stories such as "Ark Land" and "Boreal." Scott also explains what it was like making a newspaper comic for The Manitoban. RFK airs first on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. Support the station and this show through our Patreon. This episode w...
2019-07-1128 minRadio Free Krypton2003's Hulk: The movie path not takenEp 123: Before Endgame, before The Avengers, before Iron Man, there was 2003's Hulk. The film is all over the place, but its unique cinematography and storytelling has potential for a comics movie future we never had. Hosts Jacob and Justin discuss the movie and how its legacy affected our more streamlined modern comics flicks. Originally broadcast on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. Produced by Jacob Dubé.
2019-05-3027 minRadio Free KryptonTCAF: Where everybody knows your nameThe Toronto Comic Arts Festival, the city's best independent comic celebration, is upon us once again! In between buying an unholy amount of prints and comic books, our hosts Jacob, Justin and Mitchell covered some panels for you to enjoy. Listen in for discussions on how comics can lend itself to Indigenous storytelling, the challenges of getting The Punisher in a Squirrel Girl comic, and how Toronto's high rent can affect your favourite comic creators. Originally broadcast on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. Produced by Jacob Dubé.
2019-05-1629 min
Radio Free KryptonDennis O'Neil — Radical in the writer's roomEp 120: At Toronto Comic Con last month, hosts Justin, Mitchell and Jacob had a chat with iconic Batman and Green Arrow/Green Lantern writer Dennis O'Neil. This week, the hosts discuss O'Neil's impact on Batman stories, his activism work, and what it takes to be considered a radical in the comic book world. Originally broadcast on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. Produced by Mitchell Thompson and Jacob Dubé.
2019-04-1827 min
Radio Free KryptonHow Toronto got a new library just for comicsIn Episode 119, Justin interviews Rotem Diamant, the president and librarian of the Canada Comics Library—a newly opened space collecting and cataloguing comics in downtown Toronto. Rotem describes how the project got off the ground and how the library works to spotlight marginalized creators. RFK airs first on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. Produced by Jacob Dubé.
2019-04-0429 min
Radio Free KryptonJason Lutes on "Berlin," fascism and spending 22 years on one bookIn Episode 117, host Jacob Dubé speaks with comic creator Jason Lutes about Berlin, a huge 800-page epic telling the stories of the citizens of the German capital between the two World Wars. They talk about the 22-year creation of the book and the everyday stories of those experiencing the rise of fascism in their neighbourhoods. Also, RPGs. RFK airs first on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. Produced by Mitchell Thompson.
2019-03-0728 min
Radio Free KryptonAll the cartoons I've loved beforeEp 116 - We know your first crush was a cartoon. Don't lie. We've all been there. The shows one watches growing up can have a big effect on them and so can those crushes. Host Justin Chandler is joined by friends of the show Sid Drmay and Maddie Lychek to talk about the drawings they loved and what those early yearnings meant. RFK airs first on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. This episode was edited by Jacob Dubé. Here are the links to the article by Sid and art by Maddie that inspired this show.
2019-02-2123 min
Radio Free KryptonLove is love and manga is manga. We talk "Bakuman" with Christine ChuaEp 114 - "Bakuman" is the wonderfully earnest tale of two boys who dream of becoming professional manga artists while still in high school. Written by Tsugumi Ohba and illustrated by Takeshi Obata (of "Death Note" fame), it's also a fascinating look inside the shonen manga business. Friend of the show and Otaku Megami Christine Chua joins hosts Justin Chandler and Jacob Dubé to talk about the series and the world it portrays. RFK airs first on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. This episode was produced by Jacob Dubé.
2019-01-2428 min
Radio Free KryptonCreator Series - We talk pretty with Sam MiserendinoEp 113 - Comics writer Sam Miserendino joins the Creator Series book club, where people who make comics talk about the books that inspired them. Sam's pick, "Me Talk Pretty One Day" by humourist David Sedaris, is a series of essays based on the author's life. Justin Chandler, Jacob Dubé and Sam discuss Sam's comedy inspirations and why this book is so relatable. Sam Miserendino is the author of the zombie Jesus comic, "Prince of Pieces," and the children's book parody series, Addicted Animals. RFK airs first on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. This episode was produced b...
2019-01-1026 min
Radio Free KryptonWoman World with Aminder DhaliwalEp 110 - In Aminder Dhaliwal's new book Woman World, all the men have died off (spoiler: it doesn't turn out too bad). In this episode, Jacob speaks to Dhaliwal about her book, transitioning the stories from Instagram, and representing identities without making them the butt of every joke. Originally broadcast on CJRU 1280AM in Toronto. Produced by Jacob Dubé.
2018-11-2926 min
Radio Free KryptonOverwatch and comics as a lore boosterEp 108 - This week hosts Justin and Jacob reunite with RFK alum Sid Drmay to talk about their favourite online shooter, Overwatch. The story of the game itself doesn't make much sense, but loads of animated shorts and online comics fill out its confusing (but endearing world). They discuss comics as a way to easily add more lore to a game and TV show, and when to know when you're just being sold to. Originally broadcast on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. Produced by Jacob Dubé.
2018-11-0128 min
Radio Free KryptonCrisis of Toxic Nerds - Comics EditionEp 105-106 - For this year's CJRU fund drive, we partnered with the station's gaming show, Built to Play, to bring you "Crisis of Toxic Nerds," a two-part documentary investigating where the toxicity in geek culture comes from, and what we can do about it. In this part, RFK hosts Justin and Jacob try to make sense of an old beast with a new face: Comicsgate. They speak to comics writer and editor Stephanie Cooke, rapper More or Les, professor Benjamin Woo and writer and PhD candidate Safiyya Hosein about how toxicity develops and the importance of...
2018-09-2732 min
Radio Free KryptonRadio Free Rewind: Things I Love (and Hate) About Toronto with Rosena FungThis episode originally aired on May 25, 2017. Jacob talks with Toronto comic artist/foodie Rosena Fung about her series "Things I Love (and Hate) About Toronto." Rosena lays bare the little things that make the city great and sometimes awful. RFK airs first on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. This episode was produced by Jacob Dubé.
2018-09-1328 min
Radio Free KryptonInside the Orbit of "Prisoners of Gravity" — Part FourWelcome to "Inside the Orbit of Prisoners of Gravity," a Radio Free Krypton documentary bringing you the inside story on "Prisoners of Gravity," the cult-classic Canadian show which ran from 1989 to 1994 and changed the way science fiction, comics and pop culture are discussed in media. In Part Four, the final chapter of our doc, we analyze PoG's legacy and ask if a show like it could air today. This episode was reported by Justin Chandler and Mitchell Thompson. It was written by Justin Chandler, Jacob Dubé and Mitchell Thompson, with audio production by Jacob Dubé....
2018-08-3029 min
Radio Free KryptonInside the Orbit of "Prisoners of Gravity" — Part ThreeWelcome to Part Three of "Inside the Orbit of Prisoners of Gravity," a Radio Free Krypton documentary bringing you the inside story on "Prisoners of Gravity," the cult-classic Canadian show which ran from 1989 to 1994 and changed the way science fiction, comics and pop culture are discussed in media. "Prisoners of Gravity" was the first Canadian TV show to discuss comics and sci-fi seriously. By doing so, it helped change how a generation viewed genre fiction. We talk to fans who say PoG changed their lives. This episode was reported by Justin Chandler and Mitchell Thompson...
2018-08-2326 min
Radio Free KryptonInside the Orbit of "Prisoners of Gravity" — Part TwoWelcome to "Inside the Orbit of Prisoners of Gravity," a Radio Free Krypton documentary bringing you the inside story on "Prisoners of Gravity," the cult-classic Canadian show which ran from 1989 to 1994 and changed the way science fiction, comics and pop culture are discussed in media. Once the show started, PoG's creators realized season one just wasn't working. In part 2, we find out what was holding the show back, and how the team brought PoG to the next level. CORRECTION: "The NewMusic" aired on Citytv, not TVO as stated in this episode. RFK regrets the error.
2018-08-1627 minRadio Free KryptonInside the Orbit of "Prisoners of Gravity" — Part OneWelcome to "Inside the Orbit" a four-part Radio Free Krypton documentary bringing you the inside story on "Prisoners of Gravity," the cult-classic Canadian show which ran from 1989 to 1994 and changed the way science fiction, comics and pop culture are discussed in media. In part one, we talk to PoG's creators and fans about how it started, what its goals were and what the media landscape was like when the program first aired. CORRECTION: "The NewMusic" aired on Citytv, not TVO as stated in this episode. RFK regrets the error. This episode was written...
2018-08-0927 min
Radio Free KryptonCauldron Magazine with Sam NoirEp 101 - Host Justin Chandler and Mitchell Thompson speak with comic creator Sam Noir about his new project, Cauldron Magazine. It's a supernatural comics mag he's crowdfunding with fellow creators Shane Heron and Ricky Lima. They talk about the surreal style of the magazine and some of Sam's other works. RFK is originally broadcast on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. This episode was produced by Jacob Dubé.
2018-07-1928 min
Radio Free KryptonCreator Series-More or Les on HawkeyeEp 97 - Hosts Justin and Mitchell join Toronto rapper More or Les for a talk on Matt Fraction's take on everyone's sixth or seventh favourite Avenger, Hawkeye. Listen in for insight on the private life of the arrow-slinging superhero as well as some info on More or Les' upcoming musical works. #RFK is originally broadcast on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. This episode was produced by Jacob Dubé.
2018-06-2128 min
Radio Free KryptonThe ever-changing Wonder Woman with Michael D'AlimonteEp 96 - She's one of the world's most popular superheroes and she's always changing. Justin and Jacob join journalist and podcaster Michael D'Alimonte to discuss his deep-dive podcast into the history of Wonder Woman, Comics 401. Hear how Michael read every issue of Wonder Woman. Every. Issue. Fun fact: Michael worked at The Eyeopener with Justin and Jacob, where he hosted The Ear-opener podcast. RFK airs first on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. This episode was produced by Mitchell Thompson.
2018-06-1428 min
Radio Free KryptonA trivia contest worthy of the best fan ficEp 94 - In this episode, we put our (apparently limited) trivia knowledge of Doctor Who, Star Wars and the Marvel Cinematic Universe to the test. The Radio Free Fanfics, composed of co-host Jacob Dubé and nerd goddess Christine Chua, face off against The Red Lightsabers, commanded by co-host Mitchell Thompson and Emperor of Cosplay Iris Robin, in a battle of low stakes and possible employment issues. Co-host Justin Chandler moderates and tries to maintain order over our ramblings. It doesn't work. RFK is originally broadcast on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. This episode was produced by J...
2018-05-3125 min
Radio Free KryptonThe Creator Series - Allison O'Toole on Mignola's HellboyEp 89 - In the Creator Series, people who make comics talk about the books that inspire them. In this chapter, editor and treasured recurring guest Allison O'Toole brings Mike Mignola's Hellboy series to the table. Listen as she joins hosts Justin, Jacob and Mitchell to talk about Hellboy's antics, demeanor and unique art style. Plus Jacob goes through a scary flashback of an old Arthur episode. Allison works for Chapterhouse and TO Comix Press. RFK is originally broadcast on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. Produced by Jacob Dubé.
2018-04-2641 min
Radio Free KryptonThe Creator Series - Killing and Dying with Jason LooEp 88 - In the latest instalment of our Creator Series—where writers and artists talk to us about the work that inspires them—hosts Justin and Jacob talk to Pitiful Human Lizard creator Jason Loo about Adrian Tomine's Killing and Dying, a book of short comics that features not a single explosion, but a lot of heart. RFK is originally broadcast on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. Produced by Jacob Dubé.
2018-04-1929 min
Radio Free KryptonEp 84: Pizza tastes better at Toronto ComiConOn the rare time where there's a convention in Toronto, we're freed from our shackles in the studio and allowed to go outside. This week, hosts Jacob, Justin and Mitchell hit Toronto ComiCon to catch up with old guests and Swedish Chefs. Featuring interviews with creators Shawn Daley, Wordburglar and Danny Zabbal, and a Q&A with Lucie Pohl, the voice of Mercy in Overwatch. Originally broadcast on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. Produced by Jacob Dubé and Justin Chandler.
2018-03-2228 min
Radio Free KryptonEp 83: Inside a Prison Library's Comics CollectionHosts Jacob, Justin and Mitchell speak to Jameson Rohrer, a California prison librarian who's been doing popular Twitter call outs for donations about his comic collection, censorship and the comic community's reaction to his asks. RFK airs first on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. Produced by Jacob Dubé.
2018-03-1529 min
Radio Free KryptonEp 80: "Black Panther's" Killmonger and the evolution of Marvel villainsJustin and Jacob bring on special guests Ally Enrile and Serena Sbrizzi to discuss Marvel's smash hit Black Panther. They talk about how the movie breaks new ground while still falling into some of the MCU's tropes. Then they chat about the film's amazing characters and costumes. Produced by Jacob Dubé. RFK airs first on CJRU 1080 AM in Toronto. PS: Okoye rocks.
2018-02-2228 min
Radio Free KryptonEp 78: Getting Lively with Songs For The DeadHosts Justin and Jacob talk with writers Andrea Fort, Michael Christopher Heron and artist Sam Beck about the relaunch of their comic series Songs For The Dead, all about a misunderstood necromancer. We talk the book, switching to a publisher, and their favourite RPG's. (We picked up a phantom radio frequency so apologies for the mysterious classical piano and other unwanted sounds.) Originally broadcast on CJRU1280 AM in Toronto. Produced by Jacob Dubé.
2018-02-0127 min
Radio Free KryptonEp 75: Lopping heads with Andrew MacLeanHosts Mitchell and Jacob talk to Andrew MacLean, the creator of Head Lopper and Apocalyptigirl, some of the most vivid sci-fi and fantasy comics out in a while. We talk about character creation, Moebius, and where Head Lopper is going in the future. Originally broadcast on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto, produced by Jacob Dubé. Like the show? Please consider supporting us on Patreon!
2018-01-1129 min
Radio Free KryptonEp 73: Best Comics of 2017Join Justin, Jacob (and eventually Mitchell, thanks to a rocket-launcher-based incident) as we discuss our favourite comics of the year— and mention that we stayed away from superhero comics, then immediately started talking about our favourite superhero comics. Honourable mentions include Emmanuelle Chateauneuf's Queen Street, Guy Delisle's hostage, and Scott Snyder and Jeff Lemire's After Death. Originally broadcast on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. Produced by Jacob Dubé.
2017-12-2827 min
Radio Free KryptonEp 71: Grant Morrison's "All-Star Superman" and Why it Sucks to Write the Man of SteelGrant Morrison's "All-Star Superman" examines the Man of Steel in a grounded, intimate way. In All-Star, he's more man than Superman. Justin, Jacob and Mitchell discuss Superman's morality, the challenges of writing that character and cosmic awareness. Originally aired on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. Edited by Justin Chandler. Featuring Justin Chandler, Jacob Dubé and Mitchell Thompson.
2017-12-1427 min
Radio Free KryptonEp 69: Grant Morrison's Arkham Asylum with Iris RobinOur hosts (and wonderful guest Iris Robin) attempt to dissect Grant Morrison's Arkham Asylum: A Serious House on Serious Earth, an intriguing and mysterious book where Batman is sent into Arkham to stop another one of the Joker's plots, or is it? Originally broadcast on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. Produced by Jacob Dubé.
2017-11-3029 min
Radio Free KryptonEp 67: Twisted Dark with Neil GibsonJacob goes solo and speaks with Neil Gibson, the author of Twisted Dark, a huge, thrilling, and incredibly organized series of connected stories. We talk about the books, comic TV shows, and some tips on good comic storytelling. Originally broadcast on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. Produced by Jacob Dubé.
2017-11-1628 min
Radio Free KryptonEp 64: The Wayward Sisters Anthology with BC Holmes, Gillian Blekkenhorst and Stephanie CookeOur hosts talk about women and horror in comics with three creators from the upcoming Wayward Sisters comics anthology. Originally broadcast on CJRU 1280AM in Toronto. Edited by Jacob Dubé.
2017-10-2633 min
Radio Free KryptonEp 62: Waiting for a Gritty Underdog RebootWhich adorable puppers are the comic world's best? Hosts Justin and Jacob are joined by special guest/pup master Serena Sbrizzi to find out. They riff on Krypto, Hotdog, Marmaduke and Jacob's personal favourite, Underdog. Also listen as Mitchell, Jacob and Justin break down the new Justice League and Star Wars trailers, and question why Marvel is associating with arms dealers who aren't Tony Stark. Originally aired on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. Edited by Justin Chandler.
2017-10-1229 min
Radio Free KryptonEp 61: Zombie Jesus and Jello Biafra with Sam MiserendinoComics writer Sam Miserendino takes the old adage of "What Would Jesus Do?" to the next level in his book "Prince of Pieces," where Jesus does finally come back to look over his work, and he's not happy. Hosts Jacob and Justin speak with Sam about his book and his unlikely friendship with Punk icon Jello Biafra. Originally broadcast on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. Edited by Jacob Dubé.
2017-10-0528 min
Radio Free KryptonEp 58: French Canada's Weird Little Comics UniverseThe English market is dominating the comics industry, and Europe has a strong hold on the French side. Where does that leave Canada? Do we try and mimic the bigger industries or just do our own thing? We spoke to store owners and comic creators in Toronto and Montreal to find out the weird, unique state of French Canadian comics. Originally broadcast by Rendez-Vous de la Francophonie and CJRU 1280 AM during the week of September 4, 2017. Edited and produced by Jacob Dubé.
2017-09-1427 min
Radio Free KryptonEp 57: Radio Free Rewind: Life, Death and Existential Crises with Danny ZabbalIt's a Radio Free Rewind! Listen back in time as Jacob and Justin talk with the writer and artist of "Life, Death & Sorcery" and "Obsolete Heroes," the very funny Danny Zabbal. They discuss comics, existential crises and how geeks are safer now. The first volume of "Life Death & Sorcery" should be out at the end of September. Originally broadcast on Feb 2, 2017, on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. Original interview edited by Jacob Dubé. This rerun was edited by Justin Chandler.
2017-09-0728 min
Radio Free KryptonEp 54: Researching Muslim Superheroes with Safiyya HoseinTune in as Jacob and Justin talk to Safiyya Hosein, a comics writer and researcher who's looking into the significance of Muslim superheroes in comics, especially Ms. Marvel and X-Men's Dust. Originally broadcast on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. Edited by Jacob Dubé.
2017-08-1729 min
Radio Free KryptonEp 51: Magneto May Have Had a PointIn this episode, hosts Mitchell and Justin talk about X-Men, the favourite comic team for misfits and Saturday morning cartoon watchers alike. Originally broadcast on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. Edited by Jacob Dubé.
2017-07-2728 min
Radio Free KryptonRadio Play: Igs Magnum's Last StandWith the radical Robot King closing in on him, the heroic Igs Magnum initiates his last Radio Free Rewind and travels back in time to July 21, 2016—the day RFK began. He meets the Ghost of Kryptons' Past, who shows Igs highlights from the first year of RFK to teach him the true meaning of comics. Will it be enough to defeat that murderous machine? You won't see the end coming. This web-exclusive episode features Justin Chandler, Jacob Dubé and Mitchell Thompson. Edited by Justin Chandler. This show features clips from Radio Free Krypton episodes 1, 3, 14, 16, 26 and 45.
2017-07-2116 min
Radio Free KryptonEp 49: Paris Alleyne, Haven and That One Free CopyThis week, your hosts Jacob and Justin speak with Toronto artist Paris Alleyne about his comic series Haven, finding writers and making enough profit to take the transit. Originally broadcast on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. Edited by Jacob Dubé and Justin Chandler.
2017-07-1328 min
Radio Free KryptonEp 48: Who Watches Dave Baker's Sh***y Watchmen?Justin and Jacob interview American comic-creator and enamel-pin-maker Dave Baker of "Shitty Watchmen," "Fuck Off Squad" and "Action Hospital." They discuss the "Watchmen," creators' rights, Tintin and the beauty of complicated comics. A shorter version of this podcast was originally broadcast on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. Both that and this episode were edited by Justin Chandler and Jacob Dubé.
2017-07-0656 min
Radio Free KryptonEp 47: Radio Free Rewind-Get me throwbacks of Spider-Man!Spider-Man is everywhere these days! A new comic series by Chip Zdarsky and a new movie with promising early reviews are being released, so we decided to take a step back to our previous conversations with Chip and a long-time Spidey fan, Carl Solis. This episode is webtastic and I'm not very good at puns! Originally broadcast on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. Cut by Jacob Dubé
2017-06-2929 min
Radio Free KryptonEp 44: Wonder Woman V SadboysDC has released their saving grace in the form of a great female-led-and-directed movie, Wonder Woman. But was there enough slow motion and moustaches? Tune in to find out. Originally broadcast on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. Edited by Jacob Dubé.
2017-06-0829 min
Radio Free KryptonEp 42: Things I Love (and Hate) About Toronto with Rosena FungTune in as Jacob talks with Toronto illustrator, comic writer and Dim Sum lover Rosena Fung about her series Things I Love (and Hate) About Toronto. Originally broadcast on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. Edited by Jacob Dubé.
2017-05-2527 min
Radio Free KryptonEp 41: Pixelating Phalluses at the Toronto Comic Arts Festival and Hating Baby GrootJustin and Jacob talk about who they met and what they learned at the Toronto Comic Arts Festival (May 12-14). Then they review Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2. Jacob complains about Baby Groot. David Hasselhoff makes Justin's neck hairs prickle. Originally broadcast on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. Edited by Justin Chandler. Follow us on Twitter @RFKrypton or on facebook.com/radiofreekrypton
2017-05-1828 min
Radio Free KryptonEp 40: Just Put Jonathan Rotsztain in the Metro Already.In our 40th episode, our hosts speak with artist and cartoonist Jonathan Rotsztain about his Dreary Diary comic series, as well as his campaign to get his comic series about handing out Toronto's Metro published in the newspaper. Originally broadcast on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. Edited by Jacob Dubé.
2017-05-1129 min
Radio Free KryptonEp 38: Death in Comics/Cap is Still a Bad GuyJustin and Jacob discuss death in comics with Sid Drmay, then chat about the evil Captain America (who may not be what you think) and "Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 2." Turns out Jacob hates Baby Groot. This fixes the problem we had with the last one where there were 15 minutes of silence at the end. RFK regrets the error. Originally broadcast on CJRU1280 AM in Toronto, Canada. Edited by Justin Chandler. Please follow us @rfkrypton or on facebook.com/radiofreekrypton
2017-04-2729 min
Radio Free KryptonEp 36: Telling our Stories: Immigrant Women's ResilienceThis week, Jacob speaks with editor Krittika Ghosh about Telling Our Stories: Immigrant Women's Resilience, a comic anthology about the experiences of immigrant women. Krittika tells us about the book, as well as the scoop on the state of Archie Comics in India. Originally broadcast on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. Edited by Jacob Dubé.
2017-04-1330 min
Radio Free KryptonEp 33: Taking on Toronto ComiConJustin, Jacob and Mitchell go to Toronto ComiCon! They catch up with Jason Loo, Shawn Daley and Danny Zabbal. They also meet some new people, like Captain Canuck creator Richard Comely and the funny folks at The Daily Cringe Podcast. [Toronto ComiCon happened on March 18, 2017] Originally aired on CJRU 1280 AM. Edited by Jacob Dubé and Justin Chandler.
2017-03-2326 min
Radio Free KryptonEp 30: Lego Batman and the Clone ConspiracyJustin and Jacob talk about "The Lego Batman Movie" and the Spider-Man series "Dead No More: The Clone Conspiracy." Much clicking and thwipping. Originally aired on CJRU 1280 AM. Edited by Jacob Dubé.
2017-03-0228 min
Radio Free KryptonEp 26: Life, Death and Mediocrity with Danny ZabbalJacob and Justin talk with the writer of "Life, Death and Sorcery" and "Obsolete Heroes," Danny Zabbal. They discuss comics and existential crises and sad post office workers. Originally broadcast on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. Edited by Jacob Dubé.
2017-02-021h 05
Radio Free KryptonEp 23: The Comic Book Films of 2017Justin, Jacob and Mitchell talk about the movies they're most looking forward to in 2017. I swear we don't interrupt other people as much as we do each other. Originally broadcast on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. Edited by Jacob Dubé.
2017-01-1230 min
Radio Free KryptonEp 19: Pokémanga and Lord Death ManJacob, Justin and the lovely Nathan Chandler talk about Pokémon and manga. Originally broadcast on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. Edited by Jacob Dubé.
2016-11-2430 min
Radio Free KryptonEp 12: Shawn Daley and Self-PublishingJacob and Justin interview Shawn Daley about his TerraQuill comics and being a self-publishing comics creator. Originally broadcast on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. Edited by Jacob Dubé.
2016-10-0628 min
Radio Free KryptonEp 11: Lost at Sea with Annie plus ThreeYour ever-loving hosts discuss Bryan Lee O'Malley's "Lost at Sea" and why the Riddler needs your respect. Featuring guest host Annie Arnone. Originally broadcast on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. Edited by Jacob Dubé.
2016-09-2928 min
Radio Free KryptonEp 9: Moonshot The Indigenous Comics CollectionHosts Jacob and Justin speak with Elizabeth LaPensée, a writer and contributor to Moonshot: The Indigenous Comics Collection Vol 1 and 2, about her work and the state of Indigenous representation in comics and the media. Originally broadcast on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. Edited by Jacob Dubé.
2016-09-1528 min
Radio Free KryptonEp 6: Toronto Batman Under the Black HoodJustin and Jacob speak with Alexander Brovedani, the Toronto Batman, just before his final appearance in the cowl about what he plans to do in retirement. Originally broadcast on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. Edited by Jacob Dubé.
2016-08-2528 min
Radio Free KryptonEp 4: The Pitiful Human Lizard, Toronto Comics and The Lake PeopleWhat's more Toronto than a man running around in a lizard costume? This week, our hosts talk with Pitiful Human Lizard creator Jason Loo about Toronto comics and the people living in Lake Ontario we're not supposed to know about. Originally broadcast on CJRU 1280 AM. Edited by Justin Chandler and Jacob Dubé.
2016-08-1126 min
Radio Free KryptonEp 2: Captain Canuck and Peameal BaconCaptain Canuck is more Canadian than bagged milk. In our sophomore episode, our hosts speak to Kalman Andrasovky and Fadi Hakim from the Canadian comic publishing company Chapterhouse about rebooting the iconic hero. Originally broadcast on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. Edited by Jacob Dubé.
2016-07-2829 min
Radio Free KryptonEp 1: Retcons, Reboots and Bouncy BoyIn the inaugural episode of Radio Free Krypton, hosts Justin Chandler, Jacob Dubé and Mitchell Thompson talk about the new DC comics reboot, Marvel's Secret Wars and the return of Bouncy Boy, featuring local comic shop employee Noah Goodman. Originally broadcast on CJRU 1280 AM in Toronto. Edited by Justin Chandler.
2016-07-1229 min