Join us for an extraordinary conversation with comic book legend Tom DeFalco, former Marvel Editor-in-Chief and co-creator of Spider-Girl.
In this 60-minute deep dive, Tom takes us through his remarkable journey from clipping newspaper strips in Queens as the oldest of seven kids to becoming one of the most influential figures in comics history.
We explore his early days breaking into the industry at Archie and DC Comics, his transition to Marvel where he launched Dazzler and wrote iconic runs on Amazing Spider-Man, Thor, and Fantastic Four, and his seven transformative years as Marvel’s Editor-in-Chief from 1987 to 1994.
Tom opens up about his creative philosophy, his legendary collaborations with artists like Ron Frenz and Paul Ryan, and what it took to guide Marvel through a period of massive expansion. We discuss the challenges of balancing editorial leadership with creative vision, address the controversial Clone Saga, and celebrate the unexpected triumph of Spider-Girl and the MC2 universe.
From the evolution of the comics industry across multiple decades to advice for aspiring creators today, this episode offers rare insights from a true architect of the Marvel Universe. Whether you’re a longtime comics fan or curious about the creative process behind beloved characters, Tom’s stories illuminate what it takes to craft lasting mythology in a collaborative medium.
Topics covered: Early career at Archie & DC • Launching Dazzler • Writing Spider-Man & Thor • Marvel Editor-in-Chief tenure • The Clone Saga • Co-creating Spider-Girl • Writer-artist collaborations • Industry evolution • Creator advice
Theme music composed by Ron Wasserman
Audio composed and edited by
Lauren M. Antoine
Website:
Instagram/
https://www.instagram.com/backtopopmedia?igsh=MTd0dGNid2hjdWd5cA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
https://www.instagram.com/4ronwasserman?igsh=MTR6ZGZ5dXJzYXN3eQ==
If you’re looking for comics then stop by Sean’s shop here’s the link.
https://www.etsy.com/listing/1700957263/custom-listing-mc-the-last-will-and?click_key=10e3b2dbec164f3e4e3998d180f71c4828a47e9c%3A1700957263&click_sum=732fa5f1&ref=shop_home_active_1&frs=1&sts=1
Popular Podcasts
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.