J.M. DeMatteis Talks Spider-Man, Comic Writing & Creative Purpose

What makes a great comic book story timeless?Welcome to Mad Props. Today, host Chris Schnabel sits down with legendary comic writer J. M. DeMatteis to talk about storytelling, creativity, spirituality, comics, and the emotional depth behind some of the most iconic comic book runs ever created.Known for legendary works like Kraven's Last Hunt, Moonshadow, and his unforgettable runs on Spider-Man, Batman, and the Justice League, DeMatteis dives deep into the philosophy behind writing emotionally grounded stories that connect with readers across generations.The conversation explores:The emotional core of Spider-Man storiesWriting Kraven’s Last Hunt and darker comic themesCreativity, spirituality, and artistic purposeThe evolution of comic books and fandom cultureStorytelling beyond superheroesHow personal experiences shape writingConvention experiences and meeting comic fansAdvice for aspiring writers and creatorsIf you love Marvel, DC Comics, Spider-Man, comic book writing, storytelling, creativity, or behind-the-scenes conversations with legendary creators, this episode is packed with insight.Follow J.M. DeMatteisWebsite: https://www.jmdematteis.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/jm.dematteisBlue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/jmdematteis.bsky.socialFollow Mad PropsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/madpropspodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@madpropspodX: https://www.x.com/madpropspodFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/madpropspodFollow Chris SchnabelInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrisschnabelTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chris.schnabelYouTube: @Chris.SchnabelEpisode produced by Joe BrownMad Props is a Schnabel Studios ProductionChapters:00:00 – Intro02:14 – Comicpalooza, conventions & connecting with fans05:37 – How J.M. first got into comic writing09:12 – Early storytelling influences & creative inspiration13:46 – Writing Spider-Man and iconic Marvel characters18:03 – The emotional psychology behind superheroes22:41 – Creating Kraven's Last Hunt27:18 – Why darker comic stories resonate so deeply31:52 – Storytelling as emotional therapy & self-discovery36:07 – Spirituality, creativity & artistic purpose40:26 – Writing outside of superheroes & personal storytelling44:51 – The creative process and finding inspiration49:08 – Character depth vs spectacle in modern storytelling53:24 – Why Spider-Man connects across generations57:33 – Fan interactions, conventions & comic culture01:01:47 – Advice for aspiring writers & creators01:06:18 – The future of comics and storytelling01:10:42 – Final thoughts