Random Trek

Ben Harrison, film maker and The Greatest Generation podcaster, joins Scott to talk about ENT’s The Forgotten (S3E20). Topics include the ins and outs of hosting a Star Trek podcast, Trip taking a long time to write a crappy letter, and the massive amount of things that happen in this very boring episode of Enterprise. <p>Scott McNulty with Benjamin Harrison.</p>

Michael Lopp, that’s Rands to you, blogger, author, and speaker, joins Scott to talk about ENT’s Similitude (S3E10). Topics include the captain you’d want to manage your startup, Enterprise’s awful theme song (yes, it is still awful), and the wondrous scientific discoveries in this episode that no one seems to care about. <p>Scott McNulty with Michael Lopp.</p>

Erika Ensign, Dr. Who podcaster, Incomprable panelist, and Babylon 5 podcaster (and more!) joins Scott to talk about DS9’s Melora (S2E06). Topics include Dr. Who companions, disability, and the average gravity on Federation planets. Also, check out Outside In Boldly Goes to read Erika’s essay. <p>Scott McNulty with Erika Ensign.</p>

John Roderick, singer of The Long Winters, man on the line, and Road Worker, joins Scott to talk about TNG’s Parallels (S7E11). Topics include the optimal cake slice size, spoilers, Riker/Troi and Worf/Troi, and the overall misuse of Troi. <p>Scott McNulty with John Roderick.</p>

Today marks the 50th anniversary of the very first broadcast of the very first episode of the very first Star Trek series. To celebrate Scott has thrown aside the random nature of this podcast and invited Marisa McClellan, canning expert, to discuss TOS’s The Man Trap (S1E5). Topics include how this isn’t technically the first episode of Star Trek, the delicious nature of salt, and just what the heck a yeoman does anyway. Next on Random Trek, and this time Scott means it, TNG’s Parallels. <p>Scott McNulty with Marisa McClellan.</p>

John Gruber, the most daring of fireballs, joins Scott to discuss TNG’s Half a Life (S4E220). Topics cover what to order at a steakhouse, what to order at a specific steakhouse (Barclay Prime), Picard’s odd behaviour, and our thoughts about Lwaxana and why no one ever says to her, “You sound an awful lot like the computer.” Next on Random Trek TNG’s Parallels. <p>Scott McNulty with John Gruber.</p>

Max Temkin, box maker, game designer, and Star Trek enthusiast, joins Scott to discuss VOY’s The Q and the Grey (S3E11). Topics include Max’s thoughts on why Voyager has some of the best episodes in all of Trek, how this episode is a great argument against that view point, how the 90’s were a very different time, and how much this episode upsets Civil War buffs. <p>Scott McNulty with Max Temkin.</p>

Joe Rosensteel, Defocused and Unhelpful, joins Scott to discuss DS9’s Prophet Motive (S3E16). Rub your ears and count your latinum because this is a Ferengi episode. Topics covered include energy whips, strange medical award ceremonies, and Scott’s Wallace Shawn impression (briefly). <p>Scott McNulty with Joe Rosensteel.</p>

Tony Sindelar, Batman enthusiast, joins Scott to discuss DS9’s two parter composed of Homefront and Paradise Lost (S4E11/12). Most of these episodes take place on Earth, which leads to a discussion about just what the heck people living on Earth do with their time. And why do any of them work in a restaurant? Though it seems access to transporters have really made traveling much nicer. <p>Scott McNulty with Tony Sindelar.</p>

Shannon Sudderth, a host of the Audio Guide to Babylon 5 and frequent Incomparable panelist, joins Scott to discuss DS9’s Hippocratic Oath (S4E4). Another DS9 episode! This episode includes discussions about whether or not it is cool to be a geek in highschool these days, pondering whether Bashir is a hottie or annoying (why not both?), the well portrayed friendship between Bashir and O’Brien, and more. <p>Scott McNulty with Shannon Sudderth.</p>

Mikah Sargent, senior editor at Mobile Nations and podcaster (Integrate, Cartoon Cast, and Disruption joins Scott to discuss DS9’s Prodigal Daughter (S7E11). During the final season of a complicated arc driven show it makes sense to pause and examine the home life of Ezri Dax, right? Scott speculates that the entire Star Trek universe economy revolves around mining, and the brief moments of seeing the rest of the cast are discussed, as is the disturbing lack of Australians in this episode. <p>Scott McNulty with Mikah Sargent.</p>

Caroline Siede, eclectic nerd and writer, joins Scott to discuss DS9’s “Blaze of Glory” (S5E23). Topics include whether Bashir is annoying or cute (could be be both?), the joys of Nog and Jake, and what’s the deal with that one guy’s wife? <p>Scott McNulty with Caroline Siede.</p>

Marisa McClellan, canner and cookbook author (three times over), joins Scott to discuss Voyager’s “The Swarm” (S3E4). Lots of tiny spaceships, a disapproving Vulcan, and very little Harry Kim. <p>Scott McNulty with Marisa McClellan.</p>

Marshall Honorof, tech writer, joins Scott to discuss TNG’s “Elementary, Dear Data” (S2E3). Topics include why Capt. Picard doesn’t just shutdown the holodeck, if Geordi sees everything upside down, and The Nanny. Read about Marshall’s binging every Star Trek episode and movie and then learn how to do it yourself. <p>Scott McNulty with Marshall Honorof.</p>

Dan Moren, novelist and host of many podcasts (The Rebound, Clockwise, and Inconceivable!) joins Scott to discuss DS9’s “Accession” (S4E17), which Scott fails to pronounce properly. Topics discussed include Bashir (better when taken with another character, like O’Brien or Garak), the Prophets disregard for linear time, and the Bajoran’s eagerness to please some fishy new Emissary. <p>Scott McNulty with Dan Moren.</p>

Chris Ullrich, co-host of the Flickcast joins Scott to discuss DS9’s Wrongs Darker Than Death or Night (S6E17). Comfort women, the Orb of Time, and Kira’s amazing definition of “just observing” are all discussed on this episode. Plus, Gul Dukat. <p>Scott McNulty with Chris Ullrich.</p>

Jason Snell, Incomparable head honcho, master of the Six Colors, and Chief UpGradian joins Scott to discuss TOS’s Requiem for Methuselah (S3E21). Composers’ handwriting, squeeze bottles full of Science Juice, and the shocking ending of this episode are all covered. Don’t forget, you can now support Random Trek, and the entire the Incomparable podcast empire, by becoming a member. Check the Membership page for details. <p>Scott McNulty with Jason Snell.</p>

Scott is joined by a number of listeners to celebration the 100th episode of Random Trek. This super sized episode features Scott answering questions, people commenting on the show, and a glimpse into Scott’s childhood (plus the answer to why the Animated Series isn’t included in the random lineup). Next on Random Trek: Requiem for Methuselah. <p>Scott McNulty.</p>

Darren Franich, Entertainment Weekly writer and co-host of the Vidiots Video Store Show, joins Scott to discuss TNG’s The High Ground (S3E12). A lot of time is spent talking about the Trek movies, books, video games, and not so much time talking about The High Ground. Also, you can now support Random Trek, and the entire the Incomparable podcast empire, by becoming a member. Check the Membership page for details. Want to appear on Random Trek’s 100th episode? Upload a recording of yourself asking Scott a question, or just making a comment and maybe you’ll be featured. You can also tweet your questions/comments using the hashtag #RandomQ. <p>Scott McNulty with Darren Franich.</p>

Stuart Wellington, Star Wars fan and one of the Flophouse peaches, joins Scott to discuss Enterprise’s “Proving Ground” (S3E13). Topics discussed include the Star Trek movies, the Xindi, Capt. Archer, and the majesty of Jeffrey Combs. Want to appear on Random Trek’s 100th episode? Upload a recording of yourself asking Scott a question, or just making a comment and maybe you’ll be featured. You can also tweet your questions/comments using the hashtag #RandomQ. <p>Scott McNulty with Stuart Wellington.</p>

Michael Fisher, mobile tech enthusiast, joins Scott to talk about Voyager’s “Twisted” (S2E6). Things discussed include virtual reality, the Amazon Echo, the Star Trek movies, and many things other than Twisted (which isn’t good). Want to appear on Random Trek’s 100th episode? Upload a recording of yourself asking Scott a question, or just making a comment and maybe you’ll be featured. You can also tweet your questions/comments using the hashtag #RandomQ. <p>Scott McNulty with Michael Fisher.</p>

Pete the Retailer, co-host of AlphaBeatical and Star Wars Minute, joins Scott to discuss TNG’s Skin of Evil (S1E23). Shed a tear for Tasha Yar, watch out for mobile oil slicks, and don’t worry about the shuttle pilot (no one on the episode does!). Next on Random Trek… more surprises! <p>Scott McNulty with Pete the Retailer.</p>

Adam Rakunas, novelist (buy his first book and pre-order his second!) joins Scott to discuss TNG’s Suspicions (S6E22). Everyone thinks Dr. Crusher is crazy… again. There’s a nice Ferengi scientist, lots of casual racism directed toward said scientist, and an alien with a soft, touchable face. Next on Random Trek: What’s life without a little mystery? <p>Scott McNulty with Adam Rakunas.</p>

Justin Michael, Star Trek fan, editor of Less than or Equal, and problem solver, joins Scott to discuss TNG’s The Next Phase (S5E24). Romulans, being out of phase, not thinking too hard about science, close talkers, and Ensign Ro are just a few of the topics covered in this episode. Next on Random Trek… another surprise! <p>Scott McNulty with Justin Michael.</p>

Jordan Miller, Star Trek fan and husband of another Random Trek guest, joins Scott to discuss DS9’s Rules of Acquisition (S2E7). Topics include Tiny Ron, the lovely german language, the problematic nature of the Ferengi, and Morn. Next on Random Trek… a surprise! <p>Scott McNulty.</p>

Alan R. C. Raventree, clockmaker and Trek fan, joins Scott to discuss TNG’s Angel One (S1E14). Topics include misplaced freighters, what makes a grandfather clock tick, Riker’s chest hair, and lots and lots of ship talk. Next on Random Trek DS9’s Rules of Acquisition (S2E7). <p>Scott McNulty with Alan R. C. Raventree.</p>

Ken Gagne, gamer, youtuber, and polygamer, joins Scott to discuss VOY’s Tuvix (S2E24). Tuvok and Neelix: two great tastes that taste great together? Well.. at least Tuvix isn’t as annoying as Neelix. Topics discussed include the Apple II, inviting your parents onto your podcast (while you can), where you’d like to live in the Star Trek universe, and some Voyager episode. Next on Random Trek… something! <p>Scott McNulty with Ken Gagne.</p>

My mom, Joan McNulty, died on Sunday, March 6th, 2016. I thought it a fitting tribute to re-post her Random Trek appearance, so I hope you enjoy it (again or for the first time!). You can read a bit more about my mom on my blog.<p>Scott McNulty with Joan McNulty.</p>

Anna Tarkov, podcaster and writer, joins Scott to discuss VOY’s Author, Author (S7E20). Topics include the fact that a holonovel is really a video game, how Tom Paris is kind of a jerk, and the parallels that this episode draws with slavery make some of us a little uncomfortable. Next on Random Trek VOY’s Tuvix (S2E24). <p>Scott McNulty with Anna Tarkov.</p>

Carrie Miller, chemistry professor and knitter, joins Scott to discuss ENT’s The Andorian Incident (S1E7). Topics include shifty Vulcans, how cool the Andorians look, Archer’s lack of patience, how cute Porthos is, and Star Trek cat trees. Next on Random Trek VOY’s Author, Author (S7E20). <p>Scott McNulty with Carrie Miller.</p>

Maia Weinstock, editor, writer, and LEGO enthusiast, joins Scott to discuss TNG’s The Emissary (S2E20). Topics include admirals’ uniforms, Klingon mating rituals, Khelyr’s wardrobe, and ridiculous birdmen. Next on Random Trek ENT’s The Andorian Incident (S1E7). <p>Scott McNulty with Maia Weinstock.</p>

David Gian-Cursio, 3D artist, joins Scott to discuss TNG’s Time’s Arrow Parts 1 and 2 (S5E26, S6E1). Topics include the 2016 Star Trek Ships of the Line calendar (in which David is the artist of February’s ship!), the fan art community, our favorite Star Trek movies, favorite characters, and also Time’s Arrow. Next on Random Trek TNG’s The Emissary (S2E20). <p>Scott McNulty with David Gian-Cursio.</p>

Jim Metzendorf, author of “The Professional’s Guide to Audio Podcast Production” and editor of Random Trek, joins Scott to discuss VOY’s One (S4E25). How weird it is to talk to Scott, watching Star Trek: TNG a week early thanks to a sweet satellite dish, and the logistics of stasis tubes, and Riker’s beard are all discussed on this week’s episode. Next on Random Trek TNG’s Time’s Arrow (Parts 1 & 2) (S5E26 and S6E1). <p>Scott McNulty with Jim Metzendorf.</p>

Sabriel Mastin, freelance writer and games critic joins Scott to discuss DS9’s The Wire (S2E22). This is a Garak focused episode, so how could it be anything other than good? Topics include: do we learn anything about Garak in this episode? Do you need to watch every episode after this episode to truly appreciate it? Why does Bashir annoy Scott so much? And more! Next on Random Trek VOY’s One (S4E25). <p>Scott McNulty with Sabriel Mastin.</p>

Rachel Donner, podcaster and hockey enthusiast, joins Scott to discuss Voyager’s Elogium (S2E4). Procreation. That’s the theme of this episode and it revolves around Neelix and Kes. Yuck. That’s right, some space aliens make Kes enter her species’ mating phase and it is now or never if she wants to have a baby. Neelix is awful. Next on Random Trek DS9’s The Wire (S2E4). <p>Scott McNulty with Rachel Donner.</p>

Mikah Sargent, tech enthusiast and co-host of Integrate and the Incomparable’s own Cartoon Cast, joins Scott to discuss The Original Series’ “The Omega Glory” (S2E25). We learn why Star Trek is suitable entertainment for the very religious, despite the skimpy costumes and the devilish Spock, casual racism is explored, and we ponder why Kirk would know the Pledge of Allegiance. Next on Random Trek VOY’s Elogium (S2E4). <p>Scott McNulty with Mikah Sargent.</p>

David J. Loehr, Tony Sindelar, and Jason Snell join Scott to discuss “Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home. That’s right, our first movie and it is a good one! You know the one, with the whales and the time travel and the colorful metaphors. Topics discussed include movies that start with the characters watching the previous movie, the shocking overlap between Vulcan and elven fashions, and why doesn’t Sulu do anything in this movie? Next on Random Trek: The Omega Glory (TOS S2E25). <p>Scott McNulty with David J. Loehr, Tony Sindelar and Jason Snell.</p>

Warren Frey, writer, editor, and podcaster (Radio Free Skaro) joins Scott to discuss “Playing God” (DS9 S217). Topics include ranking the Star Trek movies, Dr. Who, and voles. Oh, the voles. Next on Random Trek: a hiatus until 2016. Enjoy the rest of 2015! <p>Scott McNulty with Warren Frey.</p>

Joel Mathis, associate editor at Philly Mag, and all around fun guy joins Scott to discuss Voyagers’s “Message in a Bottle” (S4E14). Andy Dick, holographic genitalia, and cool ships of Star Trek are all discussed. Next on Random Trek: DS9’s “Playing God” (S2E17). <p>Scott McNulty with Joel Mathis.</p>

Dan Sturm, podcaster and director, joins Scott to discuss Enterprise’s “Dear Doctor” (S1E13). Mistranslation hijinks, casual racism, and the Prime Directive before there was a Prime Directive are just some of the topics discussed. Next on Random Trek: VOY’s “Message in a Bottle” (S4E14). <p>Scott McNulty with Dan Sturm.</p>

Shawn Blanc, writer, Sweet Setuper, and focused individual, joins Scott to discuss “Parallax” (VOY S1E3). Blending a crew, black holes, poorly aging special effects, and the troubling relationship between Neelix and Kes are all discussed. Next on Random Trek: ENT’s “Dear Doctor” (S1E13). <p>Scott McNulty with Shawn Blanc.</p>

Becky Sweger, federal data enthusiast and bendystraw lover blogger joins Scott to talk about “Muse” (VOY S6E22). Topics include Star Trek captain’s hair, the distinct lack of space in this episode, and how Scott actually likes Harry Kim in episode. Plus there are some cool looking masks. Next on Random Trek: VOY’s “Parallax” (S1E3). <p>Scott McNulty with Becky Sweger.</p>

Eric Smith, novelist, blogger, and all around geek, joins Scott to talk about “The Forsaken” (DS9 S1E17). Topics include what exactly was forsaken in this episode, Lwaxana Troi, the writers’ questionable grasp on how computers actually work, and pup. Don’t forget to buy Eric’s book “Inked.” Next on Random Trek: VOY’s “Muse” (S6E22). <p>Scott McNulty with Eric Smith.</p>

Josh de Lioncourt, blogger, novelist, and podcaster (Maccessibility and Masters Cast) joins Scott to discuss Distant Origin (VOY S3E23). This episode introduces the truly awesome alien race the “Voth.” This episode is also the only appearance of the Voth in Voyager frowny face. Also discussed on the episode: Josh’s shocking thoughts on TNG, the odd structure of this episode, and did we mention how cool the Voth are? Because they’re cool. Next on Random Trek: DS9’s The Forsaken (S1E17). <p>Scott McNulty with Josh de Lioncourt.</p>

Dan Koeppel, freelance writer, banana expert, and Star Trek: TNG screenwriter (!), joins Scott to discuss “Time and Again” (VOY S1E4). Topics include the perils of having your episode share a name with a fantastic book, how the Voyager crew is like Hitler, 90’s child actors, guns that looks like guns, and tales of writing a Star Trek episode (specifically Inheritance which was covered in Random Trek episode 33). Next on Random Trek: VOY S3E23 Distant Origin. <p>Scott McNulty with Dan Koeppel.</p>

Clayton Morris, news guy, podcaster, and speaker, joins Scott to discuss the classic Original Series episode The Corbomite Maneuver (TOS S1E2). Topics discussed include the evolution of space exercise equipment, the ton of interesting shots used in this episode, space salads, and the horrible fate of Dave Bailey. Plus salient points on how odd looking, but well cast, Clint Howard is (we say it with love, Clint). Next on Random Trek: VOY S1E4 Time and Again. <p>Scott McNulty with Clayton Morris.</p>

Alyssa Favreau, writer, designer, proofreader, fact checker, and copy editor, joins Scott to discuss Prime Factors (VOY S1E10). Though, to be honest, they don’t spend that much time talking about the episode. Topics include space bros, ranking Vulcans, and the many outfits of Star Trek. Plus Harry Kim and erotic breezes. Next on Random Trek: The TOS classic The Corbomite Maneuver. <p>Scott McNulty with Alyssa Favreau.</p>

Brian Hamilton, podcaster and writer, joins Scott to discuss Vis a Vis (VOY S4E20). Tom Paris meets a crazy alien who steals ships and people’s DNA! Hilarity ensues. And what’s the deal with everyone in the future being obsessed with pop culture from about our current time period? Hmm? Also discussed the pleasures of working on holographic automobiles. Next on Random Trek: VOY’s Prime Factors (S1E10). <p>Scott McNulty with Brian Hamilton.</p>

Philip Mozolak, podcaster and TeeVee enthusiast, joins Scott to discuss Shattered (VOY S7E10). Chakotay visits Voyager’s past and future to find a way to unshatter the ship he loves. Or something. A stop in the holodeck, with ensuing hilarity, and the amazing skills of the Doctor round out this episode. Next on Random Trek: VOY’s Vis à Vis <p>Scott McNulty with Philip Mozolak.</p>

Sarah Grey, editor and writer, joins Scott to discuss Whispers (DS9 S2E14). Bad things happen to Miles O’Brien, but this episode has a twist (which, of course, makes it even worse for Miles). Topics discussed include the ethics of sleeping with a clone of your spouse, what 70’s show most closely maps to DS9, and Chakotay even gets some love. Next on Random Trek: VOY’s Shattered. <p>Scott McNulty with Sarah Grey.</p>