
Exploring Humanity Through Sci-Fi
770 episodes — Page 9 of 16

S3 Ep 23"Authority vs Rebellion: Prisoner Deluxe Action-Figure Edition"
In this episode, we dive into the newly released deluxe action figures from the legendary TV series The Prisoner. Fans of the show will recognize the iconic tension between Number 6, played by Patrick McGoohan, and the formidable Number 2, portrayed memorably by Leo McKern. Chris Doc Wyatt of Wandering Planet Toys talk about this new line explore the legacy of these characters, the psychological drama at the heart of the series, and how that dynamic has been captured in detailed sculpt and design. Whether you're a collector or a long-time admirer of The Prisoner, this episode is a salute to rebellion, identity, and the art of bringing TV history to the toy shelf. Start Your Free One Year Trial Of Sci-Fi Talk Plus Today Visit Wandering Planet Toys

S3 Ep 22Explore Weekly Has Wonder Woman, Casting For Harry Potter And Carrie
There's also a review of The Ritual with Al Pacino, Tribeca Festival selection Queens Of The Dead, Tom Felton back as Malfoy, Andy Serkis on Animal Farm, and more news. Start Your Free One Year Trial at Sci-Fi Talk Plus, today.

S3 Ep 20"Escape Velocity: Andy Weir on Commercializing Space"
Bestselling science fiction author Andy Weir joins Exploring Humanity Through Sci-Fi for an insightful, funny, and wide-ranging conversation about space exploration, writing hard science fiction, and the real-world Artemis mission. Tune in as Andy and host Tony Tellado dive into the intersection of science, capitalism, and imagination—along with plenty of behind-the-scenes peeks at Andy's research habits and what he did during the pandemic. The Realities of Space Exploration: Andy discusses how commercialization and competition can drive the next giant leap for humanity, especially when it comes to sustainable lunar colonies and affordable space travel. Artemis – From Page to Production: The story and science behind Andy's novel Artemis, Fox acquiring the film rights, and updates on possible screen adaptations. Andy’s Writing Process: Andy reveals his disciplined approach to daily writing, why research is his favorite rabbit hole, and how he leverages both Google and passionate experts for world-building. Start Your Free Trial At Sci-Fi Talk Plus Today

S3 Ep 21Becoming the Borg Queen and Beyond: Alice Krige Unplugged
In this episode of Exploring Humanity Through Sci-Fi, host Tony Tellado talked with the renowned actress Alice Krige, best known to Star Trek fans as the iconic Borg Queen. Alice discusses her powerful role in the film She Will, where she portrays Veronica Ghent, an aging movie star recovering from surgery in a mysterious Scottish retreat—a place infamous for its history with witch burnings. She delves into how trauma, vulnerability, and the quest for redemption shape her character and enrich the film's narrative. Alice shares fascinating behind-the-scenes insights about working with first-time director Charlotte Colbert, executive producer Dario Argento, and her talented co-stars, including Malcolm McDowell and Kota Eberhardt. She highlights the film’s unique visual style and how nature and the cosmos are artfully interwoven with personal healing and justice. The conversation moves to Alice’s multifaceted journey as the Borg Queen across multiple Star Trek projects, including her pivotal roles in Star Trek: First Contact, Star Trek: Voyager, and the animated series Lower Decks. Alice reflects on the character’s enduring allure, mysterious qualities, and cultural significance as an archetype that evokes complex reactions in viewers. Tony and Alice also reminisce about her acclaimed performances in projects like Carnival Row, Ghost Story, and her broad theater background. Alice provides a candid look at how immersive roles can profoundly affect actors—sometimes lingering well past filming, as she recounts from her experience on Silent Hill. With warmth and wisdom, Alice credits her career’s richness to a passion for storytelling, collaboration, and the enduring joy of working with devoted creative teams. Whether discussing the demands of fantasy roles, the art of transformation through makeup and costume, or her gratitude for a life spent in performance, Alice offers an inspiring perspective for fans and fellow artists alike. Start Your Free One Year Trial On Sci-Fi Talk Plus

S3 Ep 18"Alien Invasion Meets Political Deadlock: The Genius of Braindead"
Rewind Episode Overview In this special episode, Tony Tellado dives into the 2016 summer series Braindead, a unique blend of political satire, sci-fi, comedy, and horror that is even more eerily relevant today. With members of the cast and co-creators Robert and Michelle King, we explore how space bugs eating politicians' brains becomes a clever (and hilarious) lens for examining extremism and the current political climate. Key Topics & Highlights Braindead Premise: Alien insects arrive on meteors and literally eat politicians’ brains in Washington D.C., making humans act in bizarre, extreme ways. Bridging Genres Beyond the Norm: The cast discuss how the show combines political drama with sci-fi, horror, and even romantic comedy—a shift from what you’d expect from the Good Wife creators. Acting in the Absurd: Tony Shalhoub talks about channeling both sides of his evolving character, Red Wheatus. Mary Elizabeth Winstead and Aaron Tveit discuss the fun and challenge of playing ideologically opposed leads who must unite. Satire Meets Reality: The Kings discuss how real-life politics became stranger than fiction, often outpacing the show’s most absurd ideas. They also touch on the inspiration from actual shutdowns, and their attempts to satirize increasing polarization where “compromise is lost.” Balancing Tone: Maintaining comedic timing while blending in horror and satire proved to be both fun and challenging for the cast and creators. Behind the Scenes: Insight into research, from Capitol Hill strategy to entomology, and witty anecdotes about gross-out scenes and network standards. Larger Themes: Extremism and the lack of dialogue in U.S. politics Humanizing both sides of the political divide How fear, satire, and laughter can help us process social anxieties Memorable Quotes “The terrifying thing is not the big monster. The terrifying thing to me is that something will crawl on me when I sleep…” – Robert King “Our show kind of has a serious point underneath it. But the last thing I want to watch is a serious show.” – Robert King “We did lean heavily into the first Red, the Red, who’s a heavy drinker and kind of a lush…” – Tony Shalhoub Further Discussion Reflections on today’s relentless news cycles and how real events often upstage even the wildest fictional premises. Start Your Free One Year Trial At Sci-Fi Talk Plus, Today

S3 Ep 18Wonder Woman: Behind the Scenes of Her Animated Origin – An Inside Look with the Creative Team
In this episode, Tony Tellado looks back at a key moment in Wonder Woman’s legacy: her first standalone animated film. With insights from key creators and talent behind the project, this episode shines a light on how the Amazonian icon finally took center stage in animation, the creative decisions that shaped her portrayal, and the mythology that grounds her character. Featured Guests Bruce Timm (Producer, Animation Legend) Lauren Montgomery (Director) Michael Jelenic (Screenwriter) Topics Covered Why Wonder Woman Took So Long: Bruce Timm discusses the wait before Wonder Woman received her own animated feature, and the importance of finally giving her the spotlight. Creating Wonder Woman’s Story: The challenge of weaving together various comic book versions to create a fresh, definitive take on the character. Portraying an Icon: Insights into the complexities of bringing Wonder Woman to life as a lead, and how her character differs from the animated Justice League version. Controversy and Fan Expectations: From the invisible jet to whether she should fly, the episode explores passionate fan debates and production decisions. Voice Casting Magic: Highlights of Keri Russell’s and Nathan Fillion’s performances as Wonder Woman and Steve Trevor, plus Alfred Molina as Ares. Mother and Daughter Dynamics: Thematic exploration of Wonder Woman’s relationship with Hippolyta and the generational tension within Amazonian society. Villains & Mythology: Deep dive into the film’s Greek mythological roots and how Ares was developed as a formidable antagonist. Directing Animated Features: Lauren Montgomery on the unique challenges of directing animation versus live action, and her experience shaping Wonder Woman’s look and story. Scriptwriting Challenges: Michael Jelenic on translating Wonder Woman’s complex legacy into an engaging origin story and balancing mythos with originality. Female Superheroes in Animation: Reflections on the importance of featuring more female leads and untapped potential in the DC universe, from Wonder Woman to future hopes like Aquaman. Key Quotes “Sometimes you don’t want to give the audience what they want. You give them what they need.” – Bruce Timm “Wonder Woman was the start, and it was so much fun to work on the project, and I’d love to be able to do more female lead characters.” – Lauren Montgomery Where to Watch Wonder Woman’s animated feature is available on Max, Blu-Ray, and a special two-disc DVD edition. Start Your Free One Year Trial On Sci-Fi Talk Plus Today

S3 Ep 65Superman Soars & Marvel Skips Comic Con Hall H: On Weekly
Episode Overview: Tony takes listeners on a tour of the biggest headlines and developments in the worlds of science fiction, fantasy, horror, and comics. This week’s episode is packed with news, opinions, and a touch of industry analysis from Tony’s unique perspective. Highlights: Superman Movie Update MPAA has rated the upcoming Superman film PG-13 for violence. Tony shares his early impressions of the trailer and the film's tone. Harry Potter TV Series News Main trio cast: Dominic McLaughlin (Harry), Alistair Stout (Ron), Arabella Stanton (Hermione). John Lithgow cast as Dumbledore. Supporting cast announced; key roles still uncast. San Diego Comic Con: Marvel's Hall H Absence Marvel will skip Hall H; presence focused on “Fantastic Four.” Tony’s take on Marvel’s “villain problem” post-Thanos. Stranger Things Final Season Season will premiere on November 26, 2025, split in three parts. New cast includes Linda Hamilton and more. Doctor Who Casting Ncuti Gatwa’s tenure ends; Billie Piper set to “morph” into The Doctor. Billie Piper expresses excitement about returning. Monster High Live Action Movie Announced Directed by Gerard Johnstone. Movie based on popular doll franchise; potential for franchise expansion. Blumhouse Adapting ‘Phasmophobia’ Hit horror investigation game to become a movie. The Sandman Series Finale Second and final season coming to Netflix, with a bonus “Death”-focused episode. Sci-Fi Movie Recommendations ScreenCrush’s best sci-fi of the decade, with Tony’s commentary on top picks. Industry Insights “Andor”’s $650M budget revealed. Sam Altman’s AI ambitions and sci-fi’s influence on real technology. “Severance” Season 2 updates and hints at possible spin-offs. Handmaid’s Tale Final Season Everett Carradine (Naomi Putnam) reflects on her journey with the show. Scream 7 Reunion Kevin Williamson discusses returning focus to Sidney Prescott. Wednesday Season 2 Sneak Peek Netflix releases first six minutes, featuring creepy new villain played by Haley Joel Osment. Gen V Season 2 Premiere “The Boys” spin-off returns September 17, 2025. Splinter Cell Movie in Development Sydney Sweeney cast; John M. Chu set to direct. List: Worst Superhero Movies Ever Tony reacts to Fiction Horizon’s fan-voted list. Start Your Free One Year Trial At Sci-Fi Talk Plus,Today

S3 Ep 4The Mix 100 - #28 Rubikon
My subscribers picked this episode at number 28 for The Mix 100 about a future, where a space station orbits a very toxic Earth. Astronauts find survivors in protective domes that houses the elites. So the question is, do they rescue them or themselves? Director Magdalena Lauritsch based this script on a real life refugee crisis. Julia Franz Richter is one of the astronauts whom she cites gave her lots of emotional range to play. Start Your Free One Year Trial at Sci-Fi Talk Plus

S3 Ep 9Peter Joseph's Journey Exploring Humanity
Based on his book, The Human Rights Movement, his film Interreflections is different in form from his book. The film is broken up in three different time lines with each scene is an investigation of social issues. There is also a satirical science fiction layer with an antagonist, a protagonist, they're debating life in space. Start Your Free One Year Trial At Sci-Fi Talk Plus Today

S3 Ep 5The Mix 100 #65 Undone
At number 65 my subscribers picked my interviews from San Diego Comic Con for the animated series Undone. But star Rosa Salazar approached it like doing live action despite it being rotosoped. She was impressed by the painted backgrounds added later which she said look classical. You're hear from the creative team in how this series was put together. Start Your Free One Year Trial At Sci-Fi Talk Plus

S3 Ep 15Byte Slasher Flesh And Blood
Interview with Paula Brancotti, Creator Aaron Martin, director Adam McDonald and executive producer Ian Carpenter on this horror series. Start Your Free One Year Trial At Sci-Fi Talk Plus Today

S3 Ep 14Byte Earping With Tim Rozon
Actor who plays Doc Holliday on this series talks coming back for the last season. He's Your Huckleberry. Start Your Free One Year Trial For Sci-Fi Talk Plus Today

S3 Ep 7Butch Lukic Batman The Long Halloween
The animated film's producer talked about what elements of the story from the comic had to be in this movie. He talks about his voice cast including David Dastmalchian, Naya Rivera, Troy Baker, and getting Jack Quaid before his role in The Boys. It was important to keep the Holiday killer vague to show up unexpectedly. Start Your Free One Year Trial at Sci-Fi Talk Plus today.

S3 Ep 8The Batman
Charlie and Max Carver who play the twin bouncers at the Iceberg Club cited Robert Pattison's high energy in their fight scenes together. They brought their unspoken twin bond to help establish the bond between their characters. Production designer James Chinlund tells me about designing the Riddler's apartment that helped define who he was, plus the design of the Iceberg Club. Start Your Free One Year Trial at Sci-Fi Talk Plus today

S3 Ep 6The Mix 100 #32
My Subscribers at number 32 selected the costume designer for "The Changeling". I dive into the world of costume design with the incredibly talented Ane Crabtree. In this episode, Ane shares her unique approach to designing costumes, discussing how music guides her creativity and how she incorporates diverse cultural influences into her work. Join us as we explore Ane's process, her inspiration behind the costumes for "The Changeling," and the transformative nature of her fittings for actors. We'll also discuss Ane's experiences with "The Handmaid's Tale," the impact of her work, and its eventual placement in the Smithsonian collection. Start Your Free One Year Trial At Sci-Fi Talk Plus today

S3 Ep 16Exploring Scoop: Richard Ashley Hamilton on Cuban Culture, Sci-Fi Mysteries, and Graphic Novels
Welcome back to Exploring Humanity Through Sci-Fi. In this episode, host Tony Tellado sits down with Richard Ashley Hamilton, the creative mind behind the graphic novel series "Scoop." Richard shares the inspirations behind the third and upcoming fourth volumes of his series, blending sci-fi, mystery, and Cuban-American culture. They dive into Richard's fascinating experiences—from interning at CNN during the infamous Versace murder case, to working with animation legends like Guillermo del Toro and on hit franchises such as "How to Train Your Dragon." You'll also get a behind-the-scenes look at how his Miami upbringing and love of comics shaped his approach to storytelling, and hear about his collaboration with illustrator Pablo Andres. The conversation touches on the nuances of bilingual life, why specificity in storytelling resonates, and thoughts on recent and upcoming adaptations in the sci-fi and fantasy world. Whether you're a fan of graphic novels, comics, or just a good mystery, this episode is packed with insights on creativity, culture, and the power of genre storytelling. Start Your Free One Year Trial At Sci-Fi Talk Plus

S3 Ep 3The Alt Worlds Of Dark Matter
John Heller is the Visual Effects Supervisor of the alternate worlds sci-fi series, Dark Matter. He describes the challenges and rules relating to the alternate universes in the series, they had to follow. Another challenge was the different versions of Chicago to create from dystopian to ultra-modern. And there's the box too. What effects were used ? Start Your Free One year Trial At Sci-Fi Talk Plus Today

S3 Ep 13Byte Sheryl Lee Ralph On Motherland Fort Salem
She was the President of the county in the series. Start Your Free One Year Trial At Sci-Fi Talk Plus

S3 Ep 12Byte Reflecting On Legion M's First Five Years
The co-founder of Legion M reflects on the five year journey of the company. Start Your Free One Year Trial At Sci-Fi Talk Plus, Today.

S3 Ep 2Creating Characters For Silo Through Make-Up And Hair With Louise Coles
Talented hair and make-up designer tells me about going basic in the design of both for Silo. A challenge was Rebecca Ferguson's underwater scenes where her wigs and tattoo's had to be re-applied each time she came out after filming in the water tank. We discuss the collaboration with other departments and the actor themselves to create the character fully. Start Your Free One Year Trial For Sci-Fi Talk Plus Today.

S3 Ep 1Nicole Northridge Set Designs for Character Of Silo.
Talented designer that worked on Peaky Blinders and Humans took on the challenge of designing a new Silo using the existing sets. There was a chore to design the bridge, along with Steve Zahn's quarters as Solo. Sets where also desconstructed to reflect the elements of the plot. We touch on Peaky Blinders as well. Start Your Free One Year Trial On Sci-Fi Talk Plus Today.

S3 Ep 10Afrofuturism and Octavia Butler: Elevating Parable of the Talents Through Comics
Welcome to another episode of Exploring Humanity Through Sci-Fi. A deep dive into the world of Octavia Butler, the legendary science fiction writer whose groundbreaking work continues to shape the genre and challenge the way we look at our society. Host Tony Tellado is joined by guests Damien Duffy and John Jennings, the minds behind the graphic novel adaptations of Butler’s iconic works, including "Kindred" and, most recently, "Parable of the Talents." In this episode, Tony shares his own personal encounter with Octavia Butler, setting the stage for a heartfelt discussion about her influence, vision, and the challenges of adapting her complex and prescient novels into the graphic format. Damien and John offer behind-the-scenes insights into their creative process, the collaborative efforts involved, and the unique storytelling opportunities presented by "Parable of the Talents." Together, they reflect on Butler’s legacy, the importance of amplifying Black women’s voices in literature, and the ongoing impact her work has on readers and creators alike. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Butler’s novels or discovering her work for the first time, this episode offers an inspiring look at how visionary science fiction continues to explore—and expand—what it means to be human. Start Your Free One Trial Today For Sci-Fi Talk Pluss

S2 Ep 22Sounds Invincible
Brad Meyer and Jeff Shiffman work their sound magic in making explosions, portal sounds, and even more quieter moments come alive for Invincible season three. We chat about those portals and the layered sounds to make you believe to make it as realistic as possible. Sound creation, enhancement, mixing those elements with dialogue, and music makes the mix. Start Your Free One Trial Today at Sci-Fi Talk Plus

S3 Ep 11Byte Batman The Animated Series With Joe Sutliff Sanders
Author of a book on Batman The Animated Series talks about Dark or Bat Deco in the series. Start Your Free One Year Trial At Sci-Fi Talk Plus Today

S2 Ep 23Byte Barney Burman On CG Vs Practical Make-Up
After I pointed out how well the make techinques are melded in Grimm, this make-up designer gives me his thoughts. Start Your Free One Trial At Sci-Fi Talk Plus Today

S2 Ep 19Time Capsule 412 Has What If, The Walking Dead Dead CIty and Silo
This episode has director on What If ? describe The Watcher as the voice of the author and how Jeffrey Wright makes him the soul of the series. Walking Dead Dead City actors Kim Coates, Dascha Polanco and Gaius Charles describe how their character's survival instinct kicks in to survive the New York City in the series. Louise Coles , make-up and hair designer in the series, Silo tells me that she strips away what they have, no hair products, citing shiny skin on the characters. Much more in the episode. Start Your Free One Year Free Trial On Sci-Fi Talk Plus, Now

S2 Ep 17Stephan Franck's Palomino
A unique graphic novel that at its core is a father-daughter relationship where both get intangled in a murder case starting in 1981 and ending in 1995. We chat about his creative process where he writes then draws the comic bringing into its own life. We chat about his time on Marvel's What If and how Chadwick Boseman had an impactful moment. Start Your Free One Year Trial On Sci-Fi Talk Plus, Today

S2 Ep 18The Walking Dead Dead City Season Two
Kim Coates, Dascha Polanco and Gaius Charles talk about stepping into the established Walking Dead universe with their characters. They describe how the writing informed their characters and adapting to the New York City of this world. Kim Coates was impressed by the fanbase, Dascha Polanco used their ROTC training to good use, and Gaius Charles tells me about his character of Perlie's complex relationship with Negan. Start Your Free One Year Trial At Sci-Fi Talk Plus, today.

S2 Ep 16Trek Tuesday Todd Stashwick
From Second City to Star Trek Picard, Todd Stashwick's career has taken many an interesting turn. He credited Terry Matalas for creating his character of Liam Shaw citing the he is the composer, and I am the singer. He talks about having an ex-borg as a first officer to confront his fears. We also chat about playing in the world of Oz. Start Your Free One Year Trial At Sci-Fi Talk Plus

S2 Ep 15Before Lanterns, Aaron Pierre Was In Krypton
The talented actor talked about playing Dev-Em on Krypton and did his reserach on the character's history. He liked that the character played both sides of the fence which is very DC. He talked about his character's loves and loyalty. Start Your Free One Year Trial At Sci-Fi Talk Plus

S2 Ep 24Byte Genius: Albert Einstein
I spoke on the red carpet at a Nat Geo event with Oscar winner Geoffrey Rush who played the older Albert Einstein, Johnny Flynn who played the younger Albert Einstein and Emily Watson who played Elsa Einstein later in life.

S3 Ep 1Byte Flash Forward Podcast
The host and creator of Flash Forward Podcast, Rose Evelth talked to me in 2021 about this great concept. It's no longer airing new episodes but you can still listen at Flash Forward Start Your Free One Year Trial At Sci-Fi Talk Plus Today

S2 Ep 19Marc Waid: History Of Science Fiction And Superman Too.
Mark Wade is a comic legend known for his DC classics on The Flash, Kingdom Come, and Superman Birthright. He's also known for writing Marvel titles like Captain America, The Fantastic Four, and Daredevil. Marc shares his love of Superman and what it meant to him as a youth. Start Your Free Trial At Sci-Fi Talk Plus Now

S2 Ep 13Explore Weekly Has Box Office Rebound, Video Game Adaptations And New Horror
This week, Sydney Sweeney goes sci-fi, Minecraft and Sinners Revive box office, Mortuary Assistant casts two . John Rhys Davies has a new horror film about a very old cave creature. There's also news on John Wick 5 may be different from the rest. This and more. Start Your Free One Year Trial At Sci-Fi Talk Plus, Today

S2 Ep 12On Batman's Gilda Dent With Julie Nathanson
In this episode, we go behind the scenes with Julie Nathanson, the voice of Gilda Dent in Batman: The Long Halloween. From booking her first major voiceover role to the gritty realities of building a sustainable career in the entertainment industry, this conversation is a masterclass in grit, growth, and self-expression. She opens up about her unconventional path into voice acting, what it really takes to land iconic roles. Ignoring the versions of the character, Julie Nathason told me that Gilda Dent came alive for her. Like her husband, Harvey, she also shares a duality.

S2 Ep 11Trek Tuesday A Captain's Log
I chatted with Bryan Kreutz and Lili Fox-Lim who host the channel as we talk about their show plus so much Star Trek too. Start Your Free One Year Trial At Sci-Fi Talk Plus Now

S2 Ep 10Comic Books And Arrowverse: The World Of Marc Guggenheim
Prolific writer tells us about his new comic Adventures of Ulysses Monarch about an adventurer that retrieves artifacts in the year 3027. Marc hinted that there are number Arrow easter eggs in this comic series. We chat about the Arrowverse a bit and look forward to a new Planet Of The Apes comic he has written based on the original movies not the current ones. Start Your Free One Year Trial at Sci-Fi Talk Plus

S2 Ep 9Murderbot Exploring More Than A New World
Murderbot is a series about an android that has human elements like skin, and he is to act as a sec unit or a security unit. This is a refurbished model, and he's assigned to protect colonists on the remote world who work for a company to find minerals. The series is based on novels by Martha Wells. The series creators told me that Wells hit on something on her books. They adapted the series casting Alexander Skarsgård as the Murderbot and surrounding him with actors, David Dastmalchian, Noma Dumezweni, Akshay Khanna, Tamara Podemski , Tattiawna Jones, and Sabrina Wu. We'll hear from all of them as the series explores the Murderbot's role in this world. Start Your Free One Year Trial At Sci-Fi Talk Plus

S2 Ep 8Batman Legend : Kevin Conroy
A vintage conversation with a Batman legend. Kevin talked to me about his days graduating Julliard at 21, then moving on to daytime television. During his audition for Batman The Animated Series, he remarked that Batman is Hamlet which surprised the producers. We chat about recording with the cast and his work with Mark Hamill and Tim Daly. A legend. Start Your Free One Year Trial on Sci-Fi Talk Plus, Now

S2 Ep 7Greg Grunberg on Heroes, JJ and His Son
The actor talks about his son's epilepsy and his efforts to bring awareness. We also chat about Heroes and his character of Matt Parkman and looked forward to more. Start Your Free One Trial At Sci-Fi Talk Plus Now

S2 Ep 6Trek Tuesday Special Volume 4
This is Trek Tuesday, another special by Volume 4, and we have two conversations.First, At a junket for another TV series, I had a chance to chat with F. Murray Abraham, and he told me an interesting story about Star Trek Insurrection. Morgan Shepard is a great actor. He's had a distinguished career. Unfortunately, we did lose him a few years ago. He's been on Star Trek The Next Generation several times, and we talk about that a little bit, but his last appearance, it turned out to be, was one of the Vulcan council of the Vulcan Science Academy, that Spock had applied for membership. That's a key moment in Spock's life, and Zachary Quinto was the only actor that did that scene from Spock's life. Start Your Free One Year Trial Today For Sci-Fi Talk Plus

S2 Ep 5Becoming Eva Nine: Jeanine Mason on Finding Her Voice in "WondLa”
In this inspiring conversation, Jeanine Mason—actress, dancer, and the newest star of Roswell, New Mexico and Netflix’s WondLa—opens up about her ever-evolving creative journey. Jeanine shares her reflections on artistry, identity, and how to trust yourself through reinvention. Start Your Free One Year Trial At Sci-Fi Talk Plus Now.

S2 Ep 5Time Capsule 411: Exploring Sci-Fi Craft: From Silo’s Set to Invincible’s Sound and Dark Matter’s Worlds
Welcome to another episode of Exploring Humanity Through Sci-Fi, In this Time Capsule edition, we kick things off with Nicole Northridge, the talented production designer for "Silo" Season 2, as she reveals the secrets to building the rich, atmospheric environments that define the series—including the art of transforming a set to create an entirely new silo. Next, we dive into the world of animation sound with Brad Meyer and Jeff Shiffman, the masterminds behind the audio of "Invincible" Season 2. From seamlessly integrating subtle city sounds to crafting powerful emotional moments, they share how sound shapes the storytelling experience. We then shift dimensions with John Heller, visual effects supervisor for "Dark Matter," who unpacks the creative challenges of designing unique alternate worlds and ensuring each universe has its own distinct look and feel. Rounding out the episode, Janine Mason joins us to discuss giving voice and emotional depth to Eva Nine in "Wandla," capturing the innocence and savvy that endear her character to fans of all ages. Finally, we spotlight a deeply personal cause as "Star Trek" favorites John Billingsley, Jonathan Frakes, and Armin Shimerman, Juan Carlos Coto, and Kitty Winn reflect on their experiences with pancreatic cancer and the importance of community and support through the Purple Stride Walk. Start Your Free One Year Trial To Sci-Fi Talk Plus Now

S2 Ep 4Explore Weekly: Star Wars: Starfighter Unveiled, Supergirl Movie Wraps, The Last of Us Heartbreak
Welcome to a brand new episode of Exploring Humanity Through Sci-Fi. On this week’s Explore Weekly, an episode is packed with exciting headlines—most notably, a rundown of the newly announced Star Wars projects revealed at Star Wars Celebration in Tokyo, including a standalone Star Wars Starfighter movie starring Ryan Gosling and directed by Shawn Levy, as well as updates on other anticipated films and series set in the galaxy far, far away. You’ll also hear reviews and previews from across the genre spectrum, including a look at Andor Season 2, the upcoming Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow film, and an insightful review of the unique Cinderella retelling, The Ugly Stepsister. Plus, there’s fresh casting news for the animated Animal Farm adaptation, updates on the next Godzilla vs. Kong sequel, and a detailed discussion on the heart-stopping twist in HBO’s The Last of Us. The episode wraps up with insights on Alexander Skarsgård’s new role in Murderbot, a nostalgic ranking of performances in John Carpenter’s The Thing, and lots more. Start Your Free One Trial Of Sci-Fi Talk Plus

S2 Ep 3Inside Surreal Estate: Tennille Read Unpacks Haunted Houses, On-Set Bonds, and Flirting With the Paranormal
Welcome to another episode of Exploring Humanity Through Sci-Fi. Today, we’re taking you back to season one of Surreal Estate, the hit SyFy series that puts a supernatural spin on haunted house real estate. Host Tony Tellado sits down with special guest Tennille Read, who played Megan Donovan, a pragmatic and skeptical med student who inherits a mysteriously haunted house with a life of its own. Tennille dives into what it was like bringing Megan to life—a character torn between logic and the paranormal—as she navigates spooky occurrences, a tangled love life, and a not-so-average real estate agent, Luke Roman. Tennille shares behind-the-scenes stories about the striking set, working opposite Tim Rozon, and how the show skillfully blends horror, humor, and genuine heart. We also get an insider peek at on-set special effects, the challenges of filming during the height of COVID-19 in the hauntingly beautiful St. John’s, Newfoundland, and teases about Megan’s journey as she confronts both haunted hallways and her own personal crossroads. Start Your Free Trial For Sci-Fi Talk Plus Today

S2 Ep 2The Inner Light’s Lasting Legacy: Reflections with Star Trek’s Richard Riehle
Welcome to Trek Tuesday on Exploring Humanity Through Sci-Fi, where I dive deep into all things Star Trek. In this episode, host Tony Tellado celebrates one of the most beloved Star Trek: The Next Generation episodes—“The Inner Light.” Partly inspired by a George Harrison Beatles song and rooted in Taoist philosophy, “The Inner Light” takes Captain Picard on a powerful journey as he lives 4o years of the life of the scientist Kamin. Joining Tony is actor Richard Riehle, known for playing Kamin’s close friend Batai , who shares behind-the-scenes stories about the making of this iconic episode, his experiences working alongside Patrick Stewart, and the camaraderie built on set. Richard also reminisces about his time on Star Trek: Voyager and the unforgettable moments he shared with the cast. Plus, we reflect on the legacy of Picard’s Ressikan flute and “The Inner Light’s” lasting impact on Star Trek fans and the franchise as a whole. Start Your Free Trial On Sci-Fi Talk Plus, Today.

S2 Ep 1From Nuclear Paranoia to Giant Ants: Revisiting the Classic Sci-Fi Film Them
Welcome to today’s episode of Exploring Humanity Through Sci-Fi, where I dive deep into the world of science fiction to understand ourselves a little better. In this special installment, I take us on a nostalgic journey back to the atomic age with a spotlight on the classic 1954 film, Them. Against the backdrop of 1950s nuclear paranoia, Them pits humanity against giant, mutated ants in a chilling cautionary tale about the unintended consequences of nuclear testing. We’ll explore the film’s plot, its standout cast—featuring names like James Whitmore, James Arness, and even a young Leonard Nimoy—and the pioneering production techniques that brought these monstrous creatures to life before the age of CGI. We’ll also uncover fascinating behind-the-scenes details, discuss the film’s critical reception and lasting legacy, and trace its influence on everything from Japanese kaiju flicks to modern video games and pop culture. Start Your Free One Year Trial At Sci-Fi Talk Plus today

Purple Stride with Trek Stars: Research, Resilience, and Building Supportive Communities
bonusWelcome to the latest episode of Exploring Humanity Through Sci-Fi, where we dive into a special cause close to the heart of these Star Trek actors raising awareness and funds in the fight against pancreatic cancer. This episode brings together an extraordinary panel: Team Trek captain Kitty Swink, her husband Armin Shimerman, Jonathan Frakes, John Billingsly, and Juan Carlos Coto, joined by host Tony Tellado. They share a candid and heartfelt conversation about their personal experiences with pancreatic cancer, the progress being made in research and patient care, and the power of coming together—whether it's at the annual Purple Stride walk or by supporting Pancan.org online. You'll hear stories of loss, hope, community, and the drive to make a difference, not only for those battling pancreatic cancer but also for families and caregivers. The team discusses advancements like robotic Whipple surgery, the importance of early detection, and how organizations like PanCAN are changing the landscape through research and support. It’s an episode filled with warmth, humor, advocacy, and an unbreakable sense of camaraderie. So whether you’re a Trek fan, someone touched by cancer, or simply inspired by people uniting for a good cause, this conversation is one you won’t want to miss. purplestride.org/teamtrek

S1 Ep 23Sci-Fi Castings and Predictions for 2025 Emmy Awards On This Week's Explore Weekly
Welcome to another exciting episode of the Sci-Fi Talk Plus,with this episode, of Explore Weekly for April 17, 2025, packed with the latest news from around the internet. We'll kick things off with the latest updates on popular shows like "The Last of Us," which has seen a significant uptick in viewers for its second season. We'll also share some exciting casting news, including "Black Phone 2" adding Anna Law to its lineup and "Godzilla X Kong" welcoming Alicia Debnam Carey to the Monsterverse.. I dive into Emmy predictions for 2025, discuss the buzzing sequel to "Black Mirror: USS Callister," and hear from actors like Paul Giamatti and Will Poulter on their roles in the acclaimed "Black Mirror" series. Plus, get the scoop on comics, including Zack Snyder's "Rebel Moon" prequel and Doctor Who's "Robot Revolution."season debut. Finally, we'll say goodbye to Diego Luna as he wraps up his iconic role in "Andor" and revisit some surprising actors who graced the "Star Wars" universe. Tune in to explore the stories and characters that capture our imaginations and shape our understanding of what it means to be human. Start Your Free One Year Trial at Sci-Fi Talk Plus today.

S1 Ep 23Supergirl Season 3: Prioritizing Identity, Exploring Relationships, and Balancing Heroic Duties
Today on rewind and a delve into the highlights and intricacies of Supergirl Season Three. Join host Tony Tellado as he converses with series stars including Melissa Benoist, Jeremy Jordan, Mehcad Brooks, and David Harewood. Listen in as they explore Supergirl's journey through grief, identity, and complex relationships, while grappling with new villains and fascinating plot points such as parallel universes and iconic comic book adaptations. In this episode, they also touch on evolving character dynamics, iconic costumes, the addition of new Martian characters, and fan-favorite musical episodes. For fans of sci-fi, comics, and superhero narratives, this is an episode filled with insightful reflections and behind-the-scenes anecdotes from the talented cast of Supergirl. Tune in and relive the adventures of Kara Zor-El as we explore the human side of our favorite super-powered heroes. Start Your Free One Year Trial Today On Sci-Fi Talk Plus