Shows
Panel PalsTradeWaiters X Panel Pals (pt 2): BATMAN/SPIRIT & OMEGA THE UNKNOWN (2007)The exciting conclusion to the crossover epic: this time, Jeff and JD from the TradeWaiters join Diane and Jack as they discuss Jeph Loeb and Darwyn Cooke's Batman/the Spirit. Guest host Jeff Ellis presents Jonathan Lethem, Karl Rusnak and artist Farel Dalrymple's reimagining of Omega the Unknown. Link to Part 1: The TradeWaiters 127: The Tradewaiters VS the Panel Pals Crossover Part 1You can find Panel Pals on Bluesky and Pinksky: panelpalspodcast.bsky.socialGo check out the TradeWaiters: The TradeWaitersBsky: @tradewaiters.bsky.socialJeff:Jeff E...
2025-12-311h 05
Panel PalsTradeWaiters X Panel Pals (pt 2): BATMAN/SPIRIT & OMEGA THE UNKNOWN (2007)The exciting conclusion to the crossover epic: this time, Jeff and JD from the TradeWaiters join Diane and Jack as they discuss Jeph Loeb and Darwyn Cooke's Batman/the Spirit. Guest host Jeff Ellis presents Jonathan Lethem, Karl Rusnak and artist Farel Dalrymple's reimagining of Omega the Unknown. Link to Part 1: The TradeWaiters 127: The Tradewaiters VS the Panel Pals Crossover Part 1You can find Panel Pals on Bluesky and Pinksky: panelpalspodcast.bsky.socialGo check out the TradeWaiters: The TradeWaitersBsky: @tradewaiters.bsky.socialJeff:Jeff Ellis 🇨🇦🏳️🌈🏳️⚧️🇵🇸 (@jeffreyellis.ca) — BlueskyJD:JD, you can’t eat comics. (@lostcity.bsky.social) — Blueskywww.phobos-comic.comYou can follo...
2025-12-311h 05
The TradeWaiterseps. 127: The Tradewaiters VS Panel Pals Crossover Part 1It’s a (winter) summer crossover spectacular! For this episode Jeff and JD were joined by Jack and Diane of the Panel Pals podcast to read "Minus" by Ryan Armand and "Sweet Poolside" by Oshimi Shuuzou. And then you can continue the crossover over on the Panel Pals podcast for part 2 later this week! Join us as we talk about lost and hard-to-find comics, the early 2000s webcomic scene, and why on Earth Diane made us all read this manga.
Music by Sleuth.
For part two of the Tradewaiters VS Panel Pals crossover, we will be looking at "Omega the Un...
2025-12-301h 03
The TradeWaiters – Cloudscape ComicsThe TradeWaiters 127: The Tradewaiters VS Panel Pals Crossover Part 1It’s a (winter) summer crossover spectacular! For this episode Jeff and JD were joined by Jack and Diane of the Panel Pals podcast to read Minus by Ryan Armand and Sweet Poolside by Oshimi Shuuzou. And then you can continue the crossover over on the Panel Pals podcast for part 2 later this week! Join […]
2025-12-301h 03The TradeWaiters – Cloudscape ComicsThe TradeWaiters 126: “Kingdom Come” by Mark Waid and Alex RossCome with us to the future of the past as we read Kingdom Come, written by superhero powerhouse Mark Waid and painstakingly painted by Alex Ross. This dark vision of the future of DC superheroes might be a commentary on the grim-dark comics of the 1990s, or it might be an excuse to get all […]
2025-12-081h 01The TradeWaiters – Cloudscape ComicsThe TradeWaiters 125: Gutter-Takes: On Making Friends in ComicsOn today’s Gutter-Take, Jam, Jeff, and JD talk about how to make friends in comics. Maybe the real comics were the friends we made along the way. Music by Sleuth You can find us at:J Dalton Jam Jeff Ellis Our next episode will be on Kingdom Come by Mark Waid and Alex Ross. You can […]
2025-11-1026 minThe TradeWaiters – Cloudscape ComicsThe TradeWaiters 124: “Home by the Rotting Sea” by Otava HeikkiläThis week we read Home by the Rotting Sea by Finnish cartoonist Otava Heikkilä, a short but emotional journey to another world where the Arctic is melting and gender is what you make of it. We’ll talk about anthropology, allegory, and Otava’s unique page compositions. We’ll also talk about the censorship situation with Itch.io and […]
2025-10-1356 minThe TradeWaiters – Cloudscape ComicsThe TradeWaiters 123: “The Rose of Versailles” Vol. 1 by Riyoko IkedaThis week Jam, Jeff, and JD went back in time to read The Rose of Versailles Vol. 1 by Riyoko Ikeda, one of the foundational works of all shoujo comics. Get into your Versailles mindset (Versaind-set) for some gorgeous dresses, elegant balls, murder, and class warfare. Listen in so as to put this work in […]
2025-09-231h 05The TradeWaiters – Cloudscape ComicsThe TradeWaiters 122: Gutter-Takes: On the Arrival of MangaOn today’s Gutter-Take, Jam, Jeff, and JD talk about manga. What’s it like to read manga for the first time? What was it like for manga to be widely available in North America for the first time? And what have been the lasting impacts on both readers and creators alike of manga’s English-language successes? Also […]
2025-09-0240 minThe TradeWaiters – Cloudscape ComicsThe TradeWaiters 121: “Feeding Ghosts: A Graphic Memoir” by Tessa HullsToday’s book is weighty. We read Feeding Ghosts: A Graphic Memoir by Tessa Hulls. This book follows the lives of Tessa’s grandmother, mother, and herself through some of the most difficult periods of Chinese history in the first half of the twentieth century, as well as the mental illness and generational trauma that has bound […]
2025-08-0249 minThe TradeWaiters – Cloudscape ComicsThe TradeWaiters 120: “Blurry” by Dash ShawIn today’s episode we discuss Blurry by Dash Shaw, a nesting onion of vignettes of the lives of people facing indecision. Follow along as we fight our way through the fog and find out how they’re all connected. Take a delicious detour with us as we pick apart the mechanics of how this comic is […]
2025-07-1452 minThe TradeWaiters – Cloudscape ComicsThe TradeWaiters 119: The Cartoonist Co-Op Minicomic Awards 2025The Minicomic Awards are back, and we’re here to celebrate them! For this episode, Jam, Jeff, and JD read as many of the winning comics as we could get our hands on, and some of the nominees as well. Here are the winners: Ratgirl by STC09Scoot by Cam McCaffertyThe Pool by Leda ZawackiDiaphanoids by Anna […]
2025-06-221h 24The TradeWaiters – Cloudscape ComicsThe TradeWaiters 118: Gutter-Takes: On Comics-Work-Life BalanceOn today’s Gutter-Take, Jam, Jeff, and JD talk in-depth about our experiences seeking balance between making comics, having a day job, and getting a life. If you’re an artist here’s your chance to learn from our mistakes and match your priorities to your lifestyle. Also mentioned in this episode: Garfield by Jim DavisFor Better Or […]
2025-05-2838 min
The TradeWaiterseps. 112: Gutter-Takes: On DistributionWe’re doing something different for this episode. In between our regular panels on great graphic novels lies the gutter (get it?). And in the gutter this week, Diamond Distributors, who once held a monopoly on delivering comic books to readers, just filed for bankruptcy. What does this mean for comics? What even is “distribution?” Jeff, Jam, and JD are here to let you know, in our first mini episode on topics behind the scenes in comics.
Music by Sleuth.
Our next episode will be on "Our Dreams at Dusk" by Yuhki Kamatani.
2025-02-1041 min
The TradeWaiterseps. 111: "O Human Star" Vol. 2&3 by Blue DelliquantiWe’re back to read volumes 2 and 3 of "O Human Star" by Blue Delliquanti. This time we get into the trans text and subtext of the series, how metaphor and text support each other, and break down the main characters to see what makes them tick. We’ve got an alternate political universe, a true AI singularity, disability representation, a long-expected Astroboy moment, and some unexpected difficulties with pho to get through. Let’s go!
Music by Sleuth.
Our next episode will be on "Our Dreams at Dusk" by Yuhki Kamatani.
2025-01-2559 min
The TradeWaiterseps. 110: "O Human Star" Vol. 1 by Blue DelliquantiThis episode is on the first volume of "O Human Star" by Blue Delliquanti. Read the webcomic and then listen to our thoughts on planning a webcomic, the best uses of science fiction, and the unique advantage that a limited colour palette has for comics. Fair warning we spend like half of this episode griping with where the conversation on AI has gone since this book was finished, but I promise this book and this episode will make it worthwhile.
Music by Sleuth.
Our next episode will be on volumes 2 and 3.
2025-01-021h 05
The TradeWaiterseps. 109: "As the Crow Flies" by Mel GillmanFor this episode on "As the Crow Flies," by Mel Gillman, Jam, Jeff, and JD are joined by Ryan Estrada. We talk about one of Ryan’s favourite banned books. Is this a thoughtful story of alienation, doubt, microaggressions, and faith? Or is it, as one book banner summed it up, just “gender chaos?” We’ll talk about the power of traditional media (by which I mean pencil crayons), libraries, and how not to be uncomfortable in nature.
Music by Sleuth.
Our next episode will be on "O Human Star" by Blue Delliquanti.
2024-12-071h 14
The TradeWaiterseps. 108: "Thunderbolts" Vol. 1 by Kurt Busiek and Mark Bagley, Part 2This week we return to "Thunderbolts Volume 1: Justice, Like Lightning," by Kurt Busiek, Mark Bagley, Sal Buscema, Peter David, Mike Deodato Jr., Steve Epting, and others. We look deeper into the main cast of the series, and propose a wish list of changes (thirty years too late). We’ll see henchmen doing hench things, learn about incels and doxxing before those terms existed, talk about mall gothery, and discuss the importance of metaphors for six year olds.
Music by Sleuth.
Our next episode will be on "As the Crow Flies" by Mel Gillman
2024-11-101h 14
The TradeWaiterseps. 107: "Thunderbolts Vol. 1: Justice, Like Lightning: by Kurt Busiek & Mark BagleyThis is the first part of a two-parter on "Thunderbolts Volume 1: Justice, Like Lightning," by such people as Kurt Busiek, Mark Bagley, Sal Buscema, Peter David, Mike Deodato Jr., and Steve Epting. We brave the Marvel Universe in the mid 90s to ask important questions like, what happens when a gang of super-villains switches sides? Are nazis real? What happens when the biggest comics publisher goes bankrupt? And, what’s the deal with the “Marvel Method?” Buckle up, true believers!
Music by Sleuth.
Our next episode will continue the discussion on "Thunderbolts."
2024-10-211h 08
The TradeWaiterseps. 106: "The Jellyfish: by BoumThis week Jam, Jeff, and JD read "The Jellyfish" by Boum. This BD fresh out of Montreal publisher Pow Pow follows Odette, a character whose vision is being increasingly obscured by a swarm of jellyfish. It’s a story with a lot of depth and heart, and some great cartooning. We’ll talk about the book, and about the bridge Pow Pow seems to be working to build between the Francophone and Anglo comics scenes.
Music by Sleuth.
Our next episode will be on "Thunderbolts Epic Collection: Justice, Like Lightning" by Kurt Busiek and Mark Bagley
2024-09-0157 min
The TradeWaiterseps. 105: "My Aunt Is a Monster" by Reimena YeeFor this week’s episode we read "My Aunt Is a Monster" by Reimena Yee, whose unique and thoughtful approach to cartooning gave us lots to talk about, from panel transitions to world-building to colouring. This is a unique book and a welcome addition to the YA graphic novel canon.
Music by Sleuth.
Our next episode will be on "The Jellyfish" by Boum
2024-08-0159 min
The TradeWaiterseps. 104: "Roaming" by Jillian Tamaki and Mariko TamakiJoin Jam, Jeff, and JD for another episode of the TradeWaiters. This time we read "Roaming" by Canadian paragons of cartooning Jillian Tamaki and Mariko Tamaki. It’s a story of three young women visiting New York and discovering themselves, and in true Tamaki fashion, pushes the medium of comics to its limits. We’ll discuss our own adventures, the genre of comics that I GUESS we’re officially calling “mumble-core” now, and also the “Darryl Ayo method” of how the comics industry should work.
Music by Sleuth.
Our next episode will be on "My Aunt Is a Monster" by Reimena Yee
2024-07-051h 06
The TradeWaiterseps. 103: The Cartoonist Co-op 2024 Mini-Comic AwardsFor today’s episode we look at the winners of the Cartoonist Co-op 2024 Mini-Comic Awards: "Fancies" by Alex Cara, "Marrow A.K.A. Rodney’s Law" by Sloane Hong, "Crossed Signals" by Narrenstrich, "Bottom’s Up!" by Barbara Benas, and "The Bird Daughters" by Madeline McGrane. We’ll talk about the unique magic of minicomics, turning dreams into comics, and how to choose which bird hybrid assassins you want as your overlords.
Music by Sleuth.
Our next episode will be on "Roaming" by Mariko Tamaki and Jillian Tamaki
2024-05-271h 19
The TradeWaiterseps. 102: "Nancy" by Olivia JaimesThe TradeWaiters are back and ready to join the Nancy Renaissance! We read the first print collection of "Nancy" by Olivia Jaimes, and weigh in on the new artist who has taken over an ancient but venerated comic strip. Spoiler: Olivia Jaimes is lit, and you’re wrong if you think otherwise. We discuss the fraught circumstances of rebooting legacy newspaper comics, and have a lot to say about what makes "Nancy" #relatable.
Music by Sleuth
2024-05-061h 02
The TradeWaiterseps. 101: Comics Reinvented: The Next 100 YearsAfter much delay, we can finally bring you episode 101 of the TradeWaiters. This time we’re putting ourselves on the spot, and talking about our hopes and fears for the present and future state of comics. This is a continuation of our discussion from last episode on Scott McCloud’s "Reinventing Comics," and we are once again joined by Kathleen Gros. Our topics of discussion will include AI comics, fragmentation and discoverability, Webtoon convergence, the YA and New Adult audience, creators’ rights, libraries, bespoke comics, and experimentation. The future of comics, like its past, promises to have its highs and its lo...
2024-01-101h 06
The TradeWaiterseps. 100: "Reinventing Comics" by Scott McCloudIt’s episode 100! Special guest Kathleen Gros rejoins the TradeWaiters to help us celebrate our anniversary, and we read Scott McCloud’s "Reinventing Comics." This book made bold predictions of what the future of comics could be. More than twenty years later, we revisit Scott’s ideas to see where they’ve been prescient, where they’ve changed the landscape of comics, and where they’ve proven incomplete. We’ll talk about creators’ rights, the birth and death of the independent webcomic, the return of the middlemen, and whether or not we can declare the Great American (and Great Canadian) Graphic Novel.
...
2023-09-131h 08
The TradeWaiterseps. 99: "Dragman" by Steven ApplebyFor this episode our intrepid TradeWaiters read "Dragman" by Steven Appleby. This hefty graphic novel cloaks a story about gender identity, predatory capitalism, and being true to yourself in a brightly-coloured superhero costume and sends it out to patrol the streets of London. Join us and listen in as we go TRANSatlantic.
Music by Sleuth
Our next book will be "Reinventing Comics" by Scott McCloud.
2023-08-1852 min
The TradeWaiterseps. 98: "Witch Hat Atelier" Vol. 1&2 by Kamome ShirahamaToday the Tradewaiters got lost in a fantasy manga with the first two volumes of "Witch Hat Atelier" by Kamome Shirahama. We’ll break down what’s great about this comic, a few things that are maybe not as great, but mostly have a good time reading a book about kids who learn magic, and the magic makes sense.
Music by Sleuth.
Our next book will be "Dragman" by Steven Appleby.
2023-07-1351 min
The TradeWaiterseps. 97: "Barefoot Gen" vol. 1&2 by Keiji NakazawaFor this episode we read the first two volumes of "Barefoot Gen," Keiji Nakazawa's semi-autobiographical account of surviving the bombing of Hiroshima when he was six years old. "Barefoot Gen" is the best book about the worst thing. Be prepared for it to be super traumatic, but no other book is doing what this one does.
Music by Sleuth
For a complete change of pace, our next book will be the first two volumes of "Witch Hat Atelier" by Kamome Shirahama.
2023-06-111h 06
The TradeWaiterseps. 96: "All-Star Superman" by Grant Morrison and Frank QuitelyThe TradeWaiters return like the rising sun to bring you "All-Star Superman" by Grant Morrison and Frank Quitely. This limited series turned trade paperback takes us deeper into DC lore than we’ve ever gone before, and we bring you back tales of the unimaginable, opining on pacing, and the magic of character body language. If you ever wanted to know the secret formula for a really good Superman story, or to uncover what superheroes and Pokemon have in common, look no further.
Music by Sleuth
Our next episode will be on "Barefoot Gen" volumes 1 and 2 by Keiji Nakazawa.
2023-04-211h 05
The TradeWaiterseps. 95: "Mad Love" by Paul Dini & Bruce Timm"Sparks" artist Nina Matsumoto joins our panelists to talk about "The Batman Adventures: Mad Love" by Paul Dini and Bruce Timm. This was the first appearance of Harley Quinn in a comic and the origin story of one of DC’s most iconic characters today. We talk about the behind the scenes story of Harley Quinn’s creation, the mainstream comics debut of two of superherodom’s most influential creators, and what goes into making a really good Batman story.
Music by Sleuth
On our next episode will be on "All-Star Superman" by Greg Morrison and Frank Quitely
2023-04-011h 17
The TradeWaiterseps. 94: "Descending Stories" Vol. 1&2 by Haruko KumotaAre you ready for a tale of tragedy and unrequited love (probably)? Come, sit down, and gather round as we read "Descending Stories" by Haruko Kumota. This series is “manga on hard-mode,” and is our first introduction to the Japanese art of rakugo, or “falling stories.” Join us as we struggle to grasp the key ideas of an art form none of us have any prior connection to, untangle some (possible) triangles, and discuss the life and death of art forms generally.
Music by Sleuth
On our next episode we will be joined by Nina Matsumoto to read "Mad Love" by Paul...
2023-03-081h 10
The TradeWaiterseps. 93: "Space Boy" Vol. 1&2 by Stephen McCranieThis week we read "Space Boy" by Stephen McCranie. Discussion (and spoilers) for the episode will cover either volumes 1 and 2 of the tankobon-sized graphic novels, or up to episode 32 of the Webtoon. We’ll spend half of the episode talking about the Webtoon format, and then get into this soft scifi story about a girl from space (also there is a boy). We’ll talk about netgear, high school, and also learn that the antithesis of “manic pixie dream-girl” is in fact “moody emo dream-boy.”
Music by Sleuth.
Our next episode will cover volumes 1&2 of "Descending Stories" by Haruko Kumota.
2023-02-051h 04
The TradeWaiterseps. 92: "The Loneliness of the Long-Distance Cartoonist" by Adrian TomineThis week we read "The Loneliness of the Long-Distance Cartoonist" by Adrian Tomine, diving deep into the most negative parts of one cartoonist’s psyche. We talk about the important place of “sad old man” comics in comics history, mumblecore, lonely book signings, and how cilantro salad is cringe (but only metaphorically). Also how important format is to the storytelling in this book.
Music by Sleuth
Our next episode will cover volumes 1&2 of "Space Boy" by Stephen McCranie.
2023-01-091h 06
The TradeWaiterseps. 91: "Ducks" Part 2 by Kate BeatonJam, Jeff, and JD return to Alberta for the rest of Kate Beaton's "Ducks: Two Years in the Oil Sands." We still have lots to talk about as Kate survives her own journey of being metaphorically trapped in a tailings pond. We'll talk about resource extraction, Canadian history, late capitalism, misogyny, and (be warned) sexual assault.
Music by Sleuth.
Our next episode will cover "The Loneliness of the Long-Distance Cartoonist" by Adrian Tomine.
2022-12-2058 min
The TradeWaiterseps. 90: "Ducks" by Kate BeatonToday’s episode takes Jam, Jeff, and JD to northern Alberta with Kate Beaton’s "Ducks: Two Years in the Oil Sands." Kate is better known for her comics making jokes about history, but "Ducks" IS history. This first-hand account of the time Kate spent working in, and surviving, the oil industry will likely be a primary source for readers for years to come. This is not an easy story, so be ready for it to go to some dark places. Although we’ve saved the conversation about sexual assault for the follow-up episode.
Music by Sleuth.
2022-11-141h 03
The TradeWaiterseps. 89: "Mare Internum" by Der-Shing HelmerThis week Jam, Jeff, and JD read and talk about "Mare Internum" by Der-Shing Helmer. This is a character-driven sci-fi webcomic turned graphic novel that goes to some dark places in the belly of Mars. We’ll talk about dying climates, extraterrestrials, and our panelists’ complete lack of pioneer spirit. Be aware that this book travels deep into depression and a bunch of other content warnings. #abillionyeardepressiveepisode #justMarsthings
Music by Sleuth.
Our next episode will cover "Ducks" by Kate Beaton.
2022-10-081h 09
The TradeWaiterseps. 88: Return to Planet ConThis year our panelists returned to their first convention in a very long time, VanCAF 2022, and walked away with some books worth sharing. We discuss "Prince of Cats" by Ronald Wimberly, "Mmm Syrup" and "Prayer of the Ninth House" by Tajliya Jamal, "Swim Team" by Johnnie Christmas, "Science Ghost" by Christian Haruki Lett, "You Can’t Get There from Here" by Shannon Kao, "Where Have You Been?" by Ivana Filipovich, "Nothing Can Possibly Go Wrong" by Prudence Shen and Faith Erin Hicks, "The Year 50 Project" by Jason Turner, and "Our Little Secret" by Emily Carrington. We also get into the pa...
2022-08-311h 34
The TradeWaiterseps. 87: "Youtsuba&!" Vol. 1&2 by Kiyohiko AzumaThis week Jam, Jeff, and JD read "Yotsuba&!" by Kiyohiko Azuma, for a breath of fresh air and a story with the lowest stakes imaginable. We get into reliving childhood, the importance of a good translator, top tier comedic pacing, and ask who this comic is actually supposed to be for (Is it us? Is it made for us three?) We’re not going to ignore some of the gross ecchi, but we’ll also have a hard time not just laughing all the way through the episode.
Music by Sleuth.
Our next episode will be on VanCAF 2022.
2022-08-031h 01
The TradeWaiterseps. 86: "The Golden Age" Vol. 2 by Roxanne Moreil & Cyril PedrosaThe TradeWaiters return with part two of "The Golden Age" by Roxanne Moreil and Cyril Pedrosa. Hannah Myers rejoins us after our long absence, and we check in on how Tilda is doing in her war to reclaim the throne of Antrevers. It turns out, she’s not doing great! Join us as we talk about what’s in the magic box, what’s in a revolution, and the importance of both good government and good panel composition.
Music by Sleuth.
Our next episode will be on volumes one and two of "Yotsuba&!" by Kiyohiko Azuma.
2022-07-1158 min
The TradeWaiterseps. 85: "Hawkeye" Part 2 by Matt Fraction, David Aja, & Annie WuThis is part two of "Hawkeye" by Matt Fraction, David Aja, and Annie Wu, which is included in the trade paperbacks "Hawkeye: LA Woman" and "Hawkeye: Rio Bravo," or else the second half of "Hawkeye: The Saga of Barton and Bishop." It’s also by Matt Hollingsworth, Javier Pulido, Francesco Francavilla, and Chris Eliopoulis. We finally get a chance to go deeper into the story of the two Hawkeyes, as Kate moves to LA to hang out with Columbo and Clint goes from futzing around to finding out. We’ll also talk about strategies for writing tricky content and the comp...
2022-04-231h 12
The TradeWaiterseps. 84: "Hawkeye" Part 1 by Matt Fraction and David AjaThis episode covers "Hawkeye" by Matt Fraction and David Aja. It’s part one of two, and is equivalent to either the trade paperbacks "Hawkeye: My Life Is a Weapon" and "Hawkeye: Little Hits," or else the first half of "Hawkeye: The Saga of Barton and Bishop." It’s also by Matt Hollingsworth, Javier Pulido, Francesco Francavilla, Steve Lieber, Alan Davis, and Jesse Hamm. Confused yet? So are we. Honestly JD, Jeff, and Jam are going to spend the first half of this episode airing our grievances about the completely opaque way that Marvel collects its trades. But eventually we get...
2022-03-201h 06
The TradeWaiterseps. 83: "Stargazing" by Jen WangFor today’s episode Jeff, Jam, and JD are joined by cartoonist Miriam Libicki and her daughter Mered for a discussion about "Stargazing" by Jen Wang. This slice-of-life story about two girls dealing with life issues big and small gives us lots to talk about, and according to Mered, should be required reading for 99% of the population. So go find a copy and then listen in.
Music by Sleuth.
Our next episode will be on "Hawkeye: The Saga of Barton and Bishop" by Matt Fraction and David Aja.
2022-01-031h 00
The TradeWaiterseps. 82: "Death Note" vol. 3&4 by Tsugumi Ohba & Takeshi ObataIt’s finally time for the third and fourth volumes of "Death Note" by Tsugumi Ohba and Takeshi Obata! We finally get to see Light and L become the best of fake friends, and we get to meet Misa, the third pillar of our triumvirate of sociopathic twenty-year-olds. Join Jam, JD, and Jeff as we also discuss social masking, “yes, and” writing, and how much worse having a death note would be once Facebook exists.
Music by Sleuth.
Our next episode will be on Stargazing by Jen Wang.
2021-12-131h 01
The TradeWaiterseps. 81: "Paying the Land" by Joe SaccoFor today’s episode we read "Paying the Land," comics journalist Joe Sacco’s book about the Dene people, resource extraction in the Northwest Territories, the legacy of Canadian colonialism, and residential schools. It’s a big book with a lot to say on some weighty issues, but we also find time to discuss journalism as an institution, the convenient “boringness” of Canadian history, and even cottage core.
Music by Sleuth.
Our next episode will be on "Death Note" volumes 3 & 4 by Tsugumi Ohba and Takeshi Obata.
2021-11-1659 min
The TradeWaiterseps. 80: "The Golden Age" Vol. 1 by Roxanne Moreil & Cyril PedrosaThe TradeWaiters are joined by Hannah Myers to read volume one of "The Golden Age" by Roxanne Moreil and Cyril Pedrosa. This medieval adventure from France isn’t all that it seems. We talk about colour, innovating ways to show motion through time, our favourite absent meals, and why you should support your local peasant revolt.
Music by Sleuth.
Our next episode will be on "Paying the Land" by Joe Sacco.
2021-10-2555 min
The TradeWaiterseps. 79: "The Magic Fish" by Trung Le NguyenFor today’s episode Jam, Jeff, and JD read "The Magic Fish" by Trung Le Nguyen, a story about love, growing up, immigration, and identity framed by three fairy tales. This is a work with a lot of depth and a lot of heart, and we hope you’ll enjoy it as much as we have. Along the way we’ll also discuss cats, telling stories through colour, and being LGBTQ in school.
Music by Sleuth.
Our next episode will be on The Golden Age by Roxanne Moreil and Cyril Pedrosa.
2021-09-2050 min
The TradeWaiterseps. 78: "Death Note" Vol. 1 & 2 by Tsugumi Ohba & Takeshi ObataIt’s time to jump back to the early 2000s. We read the first two volumes of Tsugumi Ohba and Takeshi Obata’s "Death Note" and can let you in on the gritty details. Listen in and you can also hear about Sherlock Holmes’ descendants, the importance of having the right stationary, and the indelicate details of the Japanese legal system.
Music by Sleuth.
Our next episode will be on "The Magic Fish" by Trung Le Nguyen.
2021-08-171h 02
The TradeWaitersEps. 77: "Sex Criminals" Vol. 1&2 by Matt Fraction & Chip ZdarskyWizz! Bang! Pow! This comic is definitely not for kids. No seriously, skip this episode if you do not want “adult” content. This is "Sex Criminals" by Matt Fraction and Chip Zdarsky, the comic that asks the question, what would you do if could stop time when you orgasm? What would make you want to rob a bank? What would you do if the sex police caught on to your naked shenanigans? You know, the really important stuff. Also what’s going on with male gynecologists. Don’t worry, we promise not to get too TMI, even though this time we’re de...
2021-07-2750 min
The TradeWaiterseps. 76: "Through the Woods" by Emily CarrollSpecial guest Kathleen Jacques joins Jeff, Jam, and JD for a spooky read-through of Emily Carroll’s breakout short story collection "Through the Woods." Emily is a master of the medium, and her book sparks conversations about how to do horror in the comics medium, web versus print comics, fairy tales, picture books, and more.
Music by Sleuth.
Our next episode will be on "Sex Criminals" Vol. 1 & 2 by Matt Fraction and Chip Zdarsky.
2021-07-0652 min
The TradeWaiterseps. 75: "Meal" by Blue Delliquanti with Soleil HoThe TradeWaiters are back from another (probably pandemic-related) hiatus. For this episode, Jam, Jeff, and JD read "Meal" by Blue Delliquanti with Soleil Ho. Have you ever eaten a bug? Like, on purpose? Would you like to? "Meal" is more than just a great case for entomophagy (i.e. bug eating), cuisine with deep cultural roots in many parts of the world. It’s also a great story. It might even be the beginning of a new tradition of food manga made in North America.
Music by Sleuth.
Our next episode will be on "Through the Woods" by Emily Carroll.
2021-06-2249 min
The TradeWaiterseps. 74: "Slaughterhouse-Five" by Kurt Vonnegut, Ryan North, & Albert MonteysThis week, or maybe six weeks ago, we read the "Slaughterhouse-Five" graphic novel adaptation by Kurt Vonnegut, Ryan North, and Albert Monteys. This may be the perfect book to read during a pandemic when time seems unstuck. But never mind the sales-pitch, because if you listen to this episode you’ve always listened to this episode. Detours include the firebombing of Dresden, what a Trafalmadorian comic looks like, and being unstuck in the history of manga.
Music by Sleuth
Our next episode will be on "Meal" by Blue Delliquanti and Soleil Ho.
2021-04-0658 min
The TradeWaiterseps. 73: "Laura Dean Keeps Breaking Up With Me" by Mariko Tamaki & Rosemary Valero-O'ConnellIt’s been too long since we last read a book by Mariko Tamaki, so join Jeff, Jam, and JD for "Laura Dean Keeps Breaking Up With Me" by Mariko Tamaki and Rosemary Valero-O’Connell. It’s a high school drama about the multiple endings of a romance, as well as friendship, queerness, and life in general. You won’t be disappointed (except in Laura Dean).
Music by Sleuth
Our next episode will be on "Slaughterhouse Five: Or the Children’s Crusade" by Kurt Vonnegut, Ryan North, and Albert Monteys.
2021-03-1252 min
The TradeWaiterseps. 72: "Saga" Volumes 2 & 3 by Brian K. Vaughan & Fiona StaplesIn today’s episode Jeff, Jam, and Jon jump back into the epic world of Landfall and Reef with "Saga" volumes 2 & 3 by Brian K. Vaughan and Fiona Staples. We go looking for themes, talk about writers writing writers, and learn more about the many characters the story boasts.
Music by Sleuth
Our next episode will be on "Laura Dean Keeps Breaking Up With Me" by Mariko Tamaki and Rosemary Valero-O’Connell.
2021-02-1658 min
The TradeWaiterseps. 71: "Saga" Vol. 1 by Brian K. Vaughan & Fiona StaplesThe wait is over! TradeWaiters Jon, Jeff, and Jam are back with a two-parter on "Saga" by Brian K. Vaughan and Fiona Stapes. This episode will cover Volume 1 (which is the first six chapters). Listen in as we revisit a tale as old as time, about a horned prisoner of war from a planet of magic and a winged soldier from a vast space empire falling in love over a trashy romance novel.
Music by Sleuth.
Our next episode will cover volumes 2 and 3 of "Saga" by Brian K. Vaughan and Fiona Staples
2021-01-1754 min
The TradeWaiterseps. 70: "Drifting Dragons" Vol. 1&2 by Taku KuwabaraWe recorded this episode only a few months ago, and yet anything before quarantine began feels like a lifetime ago. Anyways, this is "Drifting Dragons" volumes 1 and 2 by Taku Kuwabara. Faith Erin Hicks joins us again for a deep dive into a manga about hunting, killing, and eating dragons. We also get lost on detours about analogy, cartoonist envy, and what it means to be famous in comics.
Music by Sleuth
Our next episode will be on volume 1 of "Saga" by Brian K. Vaughan and Fiona Staples.
2020-07-0153 min
The TradeWaiterseps. 69: Reading DeeplyVanCAF 2020 was held online, due to the world being in its current state, and so the TradeWaiters panel we pitched them became an online event as well. I present to you "Reading Deeply," on how to get the most out of your comics reading experience.
The audio quality on this one isn't great, sorry. Some of us (me) didn't think to get high quality microphones before a pandemic made new cameras and mics impossible to acquire.
Our primary examples for this episode are:
"Scott Pilgrim" and "Seconds" both by Bryan Lee O'Malley
"V for Vendetta" by Alan Moore and David...
2020-06-011h 09
The TradeWaiterseps. 68: "Delicious in Dungeon" Vol. 1&2 by Ryoko KuiHave you ever wondered how to eat a suit of armour? Special guest Faith Erin Hicks joins Jam, Jeff, and Jon to find out as we read the first two volumes of "Delicious in Dungeon" by Ryoko Kui. This cross-genre comedy adventure about eating all the monsters in a fantasy campaign dungeon will give you answers to questions you didn’t even know you had.
Music by Sleuth.
Faith will join us again for our next episode, on the first two volumes of "Drifting Dragons" by Taku Kuwabara.
2020-04-0257 min
The TradeWaiterseps. 67: "Monster" Vol. 2 by Naoki UrasawaSome might call him a murderer. Some might call him Germany’s greatest doctor. Some might call him a manga “Littlest Hobo.” Doctor Temna returns for Volume 2 of Naoki Urasawa’s "Monster," and so do TradeWaiters Jam, Jon, and special guest Nina Matsumoto. Join us as we continue our deep dive into one of the greatest comics series of all time.
Music by Sleuth.
Our next episode we’ll be joined by special guest Faith Erin Hicks to read "Delicious in Dungeon" by Ryoko Kui.
2020-03-0745 min
The TradeWaitersEps. 66: "Monster" vol. 1 by Naoki UrasawaWhat’s in a name? Does a name really matter? The book we read this episode is named “Monster” by Naoki Urasawa. Nina Matsumoto (if that’s her real name) joins Jam and Jon to talk about the first volume of this series from Japan’s master of suspense, and we get into deep discussions about good and evil, identity, choice, and whether or not comics characters should have their mouths open when they talk. You know, the important stuff.
Music by Sleuth.
Our next episode will continue our look at Naoki Urasawa’s "Monster" with volume 2.
2020-02-1053 min
The TradeWaiterseps. 65: "Junji Ito's Cat Diary: Yon & Mu"Renowned horror cartoonist Junji Ito has a cat life now. His auto-bio graphic novel "Junji Ito’s Cat Diary: Yon & Mu" is this episode’s book, and Jam, Jon, and Jeff are joined by Nina Matsumoto to talk about the book, the artist, and what it’s like to live with cats.
Music by Sleuth
Nina joins us again for our next episode on "Monster" Vol. 1 by Naoki Urasawa.
2020-01-1233 min
The TradeWaiterseps. 64: "Uzumaki (Spiral into Horror)" by Junji ItoSpirals: they make ya think! Nina Matsumoto joins Jam, Jeff, and Jon for a spiral into the mind of Junji Ito, reknowned horror cartoonist. His "Uzumaki (Spiral into Horror)" is an obsessive, surreal story about a town cursed by the spiral. We’ll dive right in, get tangled up, and hopefully make it out again at the end.
Music by Sleuth.
Nina joins us again for our next episode on "Junji Ito’s Cat Diary: Yon and Mu."
2019-12-0953 min
The TradeWaiterseps. 63: "Berlin" Books 2 & 3 by Jason LutesWe continue our journey through Jason Lutes’ "Berlin: City of Smoke" and "Berlin: City of Light." Now that the series is complete, our panelists have read all the way to the bitter end. There is no other way for the Weimar Republic to end. Join us as we check in on how the characters from the first book have fared as we head towards Hitler’s “demon ex machina.”
Music by Sleuth.
For our next episode we will be joined by special guest Nina Matsumoto as we read "Uzumaki" by Junji Ito.
2019-10-0150 min
The TradeWaiterseps. 62: "Berlin: City of Stones" by Jason LutesLooking for advice on how to survive 2019? "Berlin: City of Stones" by Jason Lutes may or may not be of any help, but it is a standout work of comics-making brilliance. Jeff, Jam, and Jon travel back in time to Jason Lutes’ window on Weimar Germany in 1928 and watch as everything starts to fall apart. This is episode one of a two episode journey through the "Berlin" comics series.
Music by Sleuth
Our next episode will be on "Berlin: City of Smoke" and "Berlin: City of Light" by Jason Lutes.
2019-08-2759 min
The TradeWaiterseps. 61: TCAF/VanCAF 2019It's Twenty-Nine-Zine! The TradeWaiters went to a bunch of Canadian conventions this year and brought back their favourite indie gems to share. In this episode we talk about:
"Doors" by the Donut Collective
"Giant's Well" by Scott A. Ford
"When I Arrived at the Castle" by Emily Carroll
"Conseal Don't Feel" by Ciil
"Counting Sheep" by Rhael McGregor
"Sobek" by James Stokoe
"Hey, I Don't Mean to Be Condescending or Anything, But We're Friends, You Don't Need to Be Afraid of Me" by Victor Martins
"Lamp Comic" by Gil Goletski
"Called Into Being: A Celebration of Frankenstein" edited by Megan...
2019-08-091h 21
The TradeWaiterseps. 60: "Laid Waste" by Julia GfrorerThere’s soil and gloom in the black death. Jess, Jon, Jeff, and Jam read "Laid Waste" by Julia Gfrorer, a tragedy set during the plague. We talk about the end of the world and what it’s like to live through it (or not).
Music by Sleuth.
Our next episode will be our 2019 TCAF/VanCAF roundtable.
2019-07-1750 min
The TradeWaiterseps. 59: "Come Prima" by AlfredJoin us on a road trip (through masculinity). "Come Prima" by Alfred is a story about two estranged brothers dealing with death, war, shame, and their own frailty. Jam, Jeff, and Jess finally get a chance to read some more bande dessinee, and it leads to a whole lot of big discussions.
Music by Sleuth.
Our next episode will be "Laid Waste" by Julia Gfrorer.
2019-07-0251 min
The TradeWaiterseps. 58: "The Calvin & Hobbes 10th Anniversary Book" by Bill WattersonIs Calvin a reflection on the inner child? This is one of many questions raised as we read "The Calvin and Hobbes Tenth Anniversary Book" by Bill Watterson. Calvin and Hobbes are a big part of comics past and present. We reflect on the nostalgia, the history, and the craft of one of the greatest newspaper comics of all times.
Music by Sleuth.
Our next episode will be on "Come Prima" by Alfred.
2019-03-121h 09
The TradeWaiterseps. 57: "Batwoman: Elegy" by Greg Rucka & J.H. Williams IIIThere are two mysteries in this book, and we solve them both. Jam, Jon, and Jeff read "Batwoman: Elegy" by Greg Rucka and J.H. Williams III, and it sparked a lot of good discussion. We talk about reasons to be a superhero, how to write in an extended universe, and the gulf between art and script. Join us as we solve the mystery of who Alice is, and why this book is structured the way it is.
Music by Sleuth.
Our next episode will be on "The Calvin and Hobbes Tenth Anniversary Book" by Bill Watterson.
2019-02-1848 min
The TradeWaiterseps. 56: "A Bintel Brief" by Liana FinckIt’s real-talk, 1906-style. For today’s episode, Jam, Jon, Jeff, Jess, and Kaye read "A Bintel Brief: Love and Longing in Old New York" by Liana Finck. This unusual memoir takes the advice column from a hundred-year-old Yiddish newspaper and translates it into comics. It’s a unique window into a bygone age, as well as a personal journey through the author’s heritage. It sparked a lot of conversation amongst our group.
Music by Sleuth.
Our next episode will be on "Batwoman: Elegy" by Greg Rucka and J.H. Williams III.
2019-01-2154 min
The TradeWaiterseps. 55: "Archie" Vol. 1&2 by Waid, Staples, Wu, and FishArchie has continuity now?? For today’s episode, local Archie expert Kathleen Jacques joins us as we read "Archie" Volumes 1 and 2, the reboot written by Mark Waid and drawn by Fiona Staples, Annie Wu, and Veronica Fish. We discover who has never read an Archie comic before, how the reboot reads to long-time fans, what the deal is with the #lipstickincident, and how this version of Archie compares to a certain TV series.
Music by Sleuth.
Our next episode will be on "A Bintel Brief" by Liana Finck.
2018-12-221h 02
The TradeWaiterseps. 54: "Why Art?" by Eleanor Davis"Why Art?" by Eleanor Davis is a meditation on what art means for the artist and for society. This surreal story isn’t one that can be easily pinned down, but it is complex and insightful, and Jess, Jam, Jeff, and kgros will spend some time unpacking it with you. Read it, listen in, and decide if you want it on YOUR fantasy football curriculum vitae.
Music by Sleuth.
Our next episode will be on "Archie" volumes 1 & 2 by Mark Waid, Fiona Staples, and Veronica Fish.
2018-11-0442 min
The TradeWaiterseps. 53: "The Complete Persepolis" by Marjane SatrapiComics are the closest thing to the experience of remembering. "The Complete Persepolis" is Marjane Satrapi’s memoir of growing up in Iran, living through the Iranian Revolution and the Iran-Iraq War, moving to Europe alone at fourteen, and returning home to a country she barely recognized. It’s one of the best comics ever made, and now you can listen to the TradeWaiters gush about it for an hour.
Music by Sleuth.
Our next episode will be on "Why Art?" by Eleanor Davis.
2018-09-2954 min
The TradeWaiterseps. 52: "I Kill Giants" by Joe Kelly & JM Ken NiimuraToday’s episode is about unreliable narrators. Also it’s about "I Kill Giants" by Joe Kelly and JM Ken Niimura. Barbara is a troubled middle schooler who may or may not kill giants, and Jess, Jon, Jeff, and Jam have a lot to talk about as we dive into this story. Unless we don’t. We might decide to talk about pastel goths vs. soft bois instead. There may be a movie adaptation of this book, which you may have heard of, but we haven’t seen it so we can’t say.
Music by Sleuth.
Our next episode will be on...
2018-09-0459 min
The TradeWaiterseps. 51: "Fante Bukowski" by Noah Van SciverIt’s like Goofus without Gallant. For this episode we read "Fante Bukowski" by Noah Van Sciver, a short, indie graphic novel about a failed writer who is basically the worst. Check out the book and then listen in to find out what Jess, Jon, and Jeff thought about it. We’ve got plenty of good writers’ tips to share, like don’t die, and manage your moose anger.
Music by Sleuth.
Our next episode will be on "I Kill Giants" by Joe Kelly and JM Ken Niimura.
2018-08-0859 min
The TradeWaiterseps.50: Live at VanCAF 2018: How to Hook Your Friends on ComicsAnyone can be a comics reader. That’s an oft-repeated theme on the TradeWaiters. And it became the guiding mantra of our first-ever LIVE episode, recorded at this year’s VanCAF. On “How to Hook Your Friends on Comics,” Jon, Jeff, Jam, and Jess will share four books that YOU can use to get more people reading comics, and offer some advice on what hooking someone on comics really means.
Our picks this week were:
the "Elephant and Piggie" and "Pigeon" books by Mo Willems
"Bone" by Jeff Smith
"Yotsuba&" by Kiyohiko Azuma
and "Acme Novelty Library" #18 by Chris Ware
Music by...
2018-07-1745 min
The TradeWaiterseps. 48: "The Prince and the Dressmaker" by Jen WangListen in as Jon, Jess, Jeff, Jam, and Kaye read "The Prince and the Dressmaker" by Jen Wang. This book is a stunning piece of cartooning and an instant classic. It’s a fairytale-esque historical drama about a genderfluid prince and his fashion designer slash muse slash confidante.
TradeWaiters episodes have been sparse in the last few months, which Jon would like to apologize for, so to make up for it for the next while episodes will be released every other week until we’re caught up.
Music by Sleuth.
Our next episode will be on "The Witch Boy" by Moll...
2018-06-1953 min
The TradeWaiterseps. 47: "Battle Angel Alita" vol. 1&2 by Yukito KishiroIn today’s episode Jam, Jeff, Jon, and Kaye read the first two volumes of "Battle Angel Alita" by Yukito Kishiro. Join us in the bleak, dystopian future of this nineties manga where robot bodies are cheap but freedom is not. Spoiler alert: one of the Tradewaiters didn’t like this book, and another doesn’t like movies.
Music by Sleuth.
Our next episode will be on "The Prince and the Dressmaker" by Jen Wang.
2018-05-1657 min
The TradeWaiterseps. 46: "Louis Riel" by Chester BrownThe TradeWaiters read "Louis Riel" by Chester Brown, which gave us a chance not only to meet our Cancon quota, but to dive deep into Canadian history, as well as a discussion on biography and the journalistic integrity of the author. Canadians can look forward to feeling nostalgic over Expos 86 and 67, while listeners from away can look forward to finding out just how interesting (and how grim) Canadian history can get.
Music by Sleuth.
Our next episode will be on volumes one and two of "Battle Angel Alita" by Yukito Kishiro.
2018-04-1856 min
The TradeWaiterseps. 45: "Castle Waiting" Vol. 2 by Linda MedleyIn today’s episode our panelists finish out the extant volumes of Linda Medley’s "Castle Waiting" with volume two. This volume answers questions about the Doctor, Simon’s father, and Jain’s childhood. We also discuss the most important parts of history, fairy tale endings, where we hope the series will go next, and cartoonist death pacts.
Music by Sleuth.
Our next episode will be on "Louis Riel" by Chester Brown.
2018-03-1852 min
The TradeWaiterseps. 44: "Castle Waiting" Vol. 1 by Linda MedleyAfter much delay, we can finally bring you the first of our two episode series on Linda Medley’s "Castle Waiting." The whole team reunites to do a close reading of this indy darling, which takes some familiar fairy tales in new directions. We’ll talk about story structure, sense of place, bearded nuns, and the Heroine’s Journey. Hashtag France is real.
Music by Sleuth.
Our next episode will be on volume two of "Castle Waiting" by Linda Medley.
2018-02-241h 04
The TradeWaiterseps. 43: "I Killed Adolf Hitler" by JasonHappy 2018, time travelers. In this episode of the TradeWaiters, Jess, Jam, Jeff, and Jon read "I Killed Adolf Hitler" by the Norwegian cartoonist Jason. It’s a short episode for a short book, but it’s a book that isn’t quite what it seems. Have a listen and see for yourself.
Music by Sleuth.
Our next episode will be on volume one of "Castle Waiting" by Linda Medley.
2018-01-0221 min
The TradeWaiterseps. 42: Holiday Giftisode 2017Our TradeWaiters haven’t read a NEW comic this week, but we do have a bunch of OLD comics we’d like to talk about that might be new to you. If you’re looking for a comic to give away this holiday season, or a comic to give to yourself, Jess, Jon, Jam, and Jeff have some carefully selected favourites for every type of comics reader. This episode is unusually spoiler-free, so give it a listen!
In this episode we talk about:
"Laser Moose and Rabbit Boy: Disco Fever" by Doug Savage
"Underground" by Jeff Parker and Steve Lieber
"Fables...
2017-12-041h 04
The TradeWaiterseps. 36: "Shadoweyes" by Sophie CampbellToday’s TradeWaiters covers "Shadoweyes" by Sophie Campbell. With Jess mysteriously absent (someone start putting up missing person posters!) it’s left to Jam, Jon, Jeff, and kgros to dive deep into this dense, indie graphic novel. We test the limits of what counts as a superhero comic, discuss the “slow burn friendship drama,” remember the nineties, and talk about the shady, short past of some defunct publishers.
Music by Sleuth.
Our next episode will be on volumes one and two of "Scott Pilgrim" by Bryan Lee O’Malley
2017-07-2855 min
The TradeWaiterseps. 34: "Last Man" vol 1&2 by Balak, Sanlaville, & VivèsIn today’s Tradewaiters episode Jess, Jam, Jon, and Jeff read the first two volumes of "Last Man" by the French team Balak, Sanlaville, and Vivès. Join us on a strange journey through a martial arts fighting championship on another world where nothing is quite what it seems. Caution: this comic, and our discussion about it, spend a not insignificant amount of time on sexual assault.
Music by Sleuth.
Our next episode will cover the third and fourth volumes of "Last Man" by Balak, Sanlaville, and Vivès. Only one Man must remain!
2017-06-1653 min
The TradeWaiterseps. 33: "Wendy" & "Wendy's Revenge" by Walter ScottJoin Jess, Jam, Jon, Jeff, and kgros for another episode of the TradeWaiters. We read "Wendy" and "Wendy’s Revenge" by Walter Scott, a gritty tale of post- art school drama told in a super indie style. Come for the insightful comics discussion, stay for the totally stealable gallery show concepts.
Music by Sleuth.
Our next episode will cover the first two volumes of "Last Man" by Balak, Michael Sanlaville, and Bastien Vives.
2017-05-2448 min
The TradeWaiterseps. 32: "Your Lie in April" vol. 1&2 by Naoshi ArakawaToday on the TradeWaiters, we jumped head-first into some shoujo manga with the first two volumes of "Your Lie in April" by Naoshi Arakawa. Join us as we immerse ourselves in classical music, middle school romance, family drama, and the fine art of panel-to-panel transitions. We also officially welcome Jess Pollard as our fifth podcast panelist!
Music by Sleuth
Our next episode will cover "Wendy" and "Wendy's Revenge" by Walter Scott.
2017-05-0443 min
The TradeWaiterseps. 31: "Vattu" vol. 1 by Evan DahmThis week on The Tradewaiters, The Fifth Tradewaiter (a.k.a. Jess Pollard) joins us to talk about "Vattu: The Name and the Mark" by Evan Dahm. This is the first volume in print of Evan’s epic webcomic project. Listen to us chat about how much we love his work, but more importantly, the reasons WHY we love it and why you should too. We’ve got a lot to say about webcomics in general this episode.
Music by Sleuth.
Our next episode will cover volumes 1 and 2 of "Your Lie in April" by Naoshi Arakawa.
2017-04-1352 min
The TradeWaitersEps. 30: "Paper Girls" Vol. 1&2 by Brian K. Vaughan & Cliff ChiangThe Tradewaiters are back! Jess Pollard joins Jon, Jeff, Jam, and kgros for a discussion on "Paper Girls" volumes 1 & 2 by Brian K. Vaughan and Cliff Chiang. Join us as we talk about eighties nostalgia, book design, the pacing in floppies, “progressive edgy,” and Matt Wilson’s gorgeous colours.
EDIT: Jonathon would like to apologize for mixing up Warren Ellis and Frank Miller. Minus ten points from Hufflepuff for such a slanderous error.
Music by Sleuth.
Our next episode will cover volume one of "Vattu" by Evan Dahm.
2017-03-2359 min
The TradeWaitersEps. 27: "Aya" by Marguerite Abouet & Clément OubrerieOn today’s Tradewaiters we read "Aya" written by Marguerite Abouet and drawn by Clément Oubrerie. Special guest Jess Pollard joins us again while Angela is away. Our first formal foray into bande dessinée, "Aya" follows the chaotic love lives of three young women in 1970s Ivory Coast. This book was a lot of fun! Join us as we share our thoughts.
Music by Sleuth.
Our next episode will cover volumes 1 & 2 of "Bone" by Jeff Smith.
2016-12-2240 min
The TradeWaitersEps. 26: "Americus" by MK Reed & Jonathan HillSpecial guest Jess Pollard returns to the TradeWaiters studio for "Americus" by M.K. Reed and Jonathan Hill. She proceeds to get Socratic on the group as we discuss censorship, culture wars, and comics. Meanwhile, we confirm the existence of actual IRL TradeWaiters listeners, and everyone’s got an opinion on a certain ultra-popular young adult fantasy book series.
Music by Sleuth.
Our next episode will cover "Aya" by Marguerite Abouet and Clemente Oubrerie.
2016-12-0455 min
The TradeWaitersEps. 20: "Bakuman" vol. 1&2 by Tsugumi Ohba & Takeshi ObataEpisode 20 begins our Bakumanathon! Our TradeWaiters read the first two volumes of "Bakuman" by Tsugumi Ohba and Takeshi Obata, and it filled them with a determination to share their opinions. Find out what they really think about the Japanese manga industry, the Shonen Jump editorial process, middle school cartoonists, and Pure Romance. Making comics will break your heart, but listening to this episode will not!
Music by Sleuth.
Our next episode will cover the next two volumes of "Bakuman" by Tsugumi Ohba and Takeshi Obata, volumes 3 and 4. The Bakumanathon continues!
2016-08-1953 min
The TradeWaitersEps 16: "Nausicaa of the Valley of Wind" Vol. 2 by Hayao MiyakaziIn episode 16 Jon, Jeff, Kathleen, and special guest Jess Pollard continue the discussion of "Nausicaa of the Valley of Wind" by Hayao Miyazaki with volume 2 (or the second half, depending on what printing you have). The TradeWaiters get philosophical as this manga master-work leads us down roads to nihilism, zen buddhism, relativism, absolutism, pacifism, and existential terror. Welcome to funny books, everybody.
Music by Sleuth.
Our next book will be "Dykes to Watch Out For" by Alison Bechdel, but our next episode will be an afterword on TCAF and VanCAF 2016, coming out on June 10th.
2016-04-1358 min
The TradeWaitersEps 14: "Jessica Jones: Alias" vol. 3&4 by Brian Michael Bendis & Michael GaydosIn this episode we continue to read through Marvel’s "Jessica Jones: Alias" by Brian Michael Bendis and Michael Gaydos, with volumes 3 and 4. We talk about the tricky dance of words and pictures in this series, hypothesize about a Marvel non-comics AU, dis the Savage Land, compare non-canon doujinshi on Wolverine, and discuss post-renaissance mannerism. Oh, and the Jessica Jones Netflix series gets some airtime too. Come with us, on a journey, with your pals, the TradeWaiters.
Music by Sleuth.
Episodes 15 and 16 will be another two-part series, on the first and second halves (respectively) of Hayao Miyazaki’s "Nausicaa of the...
2016-03-111h 00
The TradeWaitersEps 13: "Jessica Jones: Alias" volumes 1&2 by Brian Michael Bendis & Michael GaydosWe’re trying something different! Episode 13 of the TradeWaiters will cover the first two trade paperbacks of Marvel’s "Jessica Jones: Alias" by Brian Michael Bendis and Michael Gaydos, and then episode 14 will cover volumes 3 and 4. "Alias" being a Marvel book, it’s a hard sell for some of the TradeWaiters, but we get in pretty deep with the book’s pros and cons. If you’re a comics reader, a comics maker, or just a fan of the Netflix adaptation, give us a listen and decide for yourself.
Music by Sleuth.
The next episode will continue the series with volumes 3...
2016-02-2654 min
The TradeWaitersEps. 12: "Nimona" by Noelle StevensonIn episode 12 the TradeWaiters read "Nimona" by Noelle Stevenson, a subversive fantasy graphic novel. In addition to all four panelists gushing over this book, you can get the inside scoop on Jonathon crying in restaurants, what Kathleen really thinks of spoiler warnings, and roll your eyes at yet another imperfect Kindle comic.
Music by Sleuth.
The next episode will cover volumes 1 & 2 of "Jessica Jones: Alias" by Brian Michael Bendis and Michael Gaydos.
2016-02-1057 min
The TradeWaitersEps. 8: "Tekkon Kinkreet: Black & White" by Taiyo MatsumotoIn Episode Eight, the Tradewaiters discuss "Tekkon Kinkreet: Black & White" by Taiyo Matsumoto. Jon, Jeff, Angela, and Kathleen have a lot of opinions on how best to adapt manga to an English-speaking audience, Kathleen has some positive words for past-Kathleen, and Angela has some strong opinions on “historical neon.”
Music by Sleuth.
Our next episode will be on "Essex County" by Jeff Lemire.
2016-01-1649 min
The TradeWaitersEps. 7: "Two Generals" by Scott ChantlerIn Episode 7 Our panel talks about Two Generals by Scott Chantler, a comics biography of the author’s grandfather’s experiences in the Second World War. Listen to find out what everyone’s grandparents did during the war (spoiler alert: ONE of the tradewaiters’ grandparents were too young to do much of anything), and to find out what it takes to get Angela’s husband to care about comics. Consider this our Rememberance Day episode.
Music by Sleuth.
The next episode will cover Tekkon Kinkreet: Black and White by Taiyo Matsumoto.
2016-01-1355 min
The TradeWaitersEps. 5: "Mail Order Bride" by Mark Kalesnikon Episode Five, Jonathon, Jeff, Angela, and Kathleen read Mail Order Bride by British Columbian comicker Mark Kalesniko. For once the TradeWaiters can’t agree on whether this is a book worth reading. We are all adults, though, (most of us), so no friendships were ruined in the making of this episode. Read the book for yourself, listen to the episode, and decide what you think.
Music by Sleuth.
Next episode will be volumes 1 and 2 of Ms. Marvel by G. Willow Wilson, Adrian Alphona, and Jake Wyatt.
2015-12-3052 min
The TradeWaitersEps. 3: "One Hundred Demons" by Lynda BarryIn Episode 3 of the TradeWaiters, Jon, Jeff, Angela and Kathleen read One Hundred Demons by Lynda Barry, an "autobifictionalography." Kathleen calls Lynda Barry one of her "must-read cartoonists." Maybe by the end you will want to spend some time with your own demons.
Music by Sleuth
Next episode will cover Broken Telephone written by Ryan Estrada.
2015-12-2937 min