Random Trek

Lisa Schmeiser, reporter, podcaster, and newsletter producer (subscribe to So What, Who Cares?), joins Scott to discuss Tears of the Prophets (DS9 S6E26). The discussion includes whether DS9 feels dated, if the Bajorns are a cargo cult, the finer details of Dukat’s charm, and the fate of Jadzia Dax. Next on Random Trek: DS9’s Whispers. <p>Scott McNulty with Lisa Schmeiser.</p>

Joan McNulty, retiree, reader, and Scott’s mom, joins Scott to discuss The Haunting of Deck Twelve (VOY S6E25). The Original Series, how Scott got into Star Trek, whether Neelix is annoying, and the merits of Capt. Janeway are discussed. The merits of being able to fly and which Star Trek tech you wish was real (transporters vs. replicators) are also mentioned. Next on Random Trek: DS9’s The Tears of the Prophets. <p>Scott McNulty with Joan McNulty.</p>

David Chartier, freelance content strategist and thinker, joins Scott to discuss Mirror, Mirror (TOS S2E4). Agonizers, golden belts, and Uhura’s alternate uniform are all discussed. Next on Random Trek: VOY’s The Haunting on Deck Twelve. <p>Scott McNulty with David Chartier.</p>

Manu Saadia, author of the forthcoming book Trekonomics, joins Scott to discuss Singularity (ENT S2E9). The economics of the Star Trek universe are discussed, as is why so many Enterprise episodes feature scenes in the bathroom, the merits of T’Pal, and whether or not Capt. Archer is a good captain (spoiler: he isn’t). Apologies for some of the audio in this episode, it would seem Skype isn’t a fan of Enterprise. Next on Random Trek: TOS’s Mirror, Mirror. <p>Scott McNulty with Manu Saadia.</p>

Aleen Simms, host of Less Than or Equal, joins Scott to discuss A Night in Sickbay (ENT S2E5). Porthos is sick, and it is all Archer’s fault. Plus thoughts on the theme song (yes, again), how Archer isn’t all that great at his job, and some problematic usage of T’Pol. Next on Random Trek: Enterprise’s Singularity. <p>Scott McNulty with Aleen Simms.</p>

James Callan, content strategist and trivia master, joins Scott to discuss The Sword of Kahless (DS9 S4E9). Topics discussed include the details of Klingon archeology, how finding the sword isn’t the point of this episode, and many observations about Klingon society (or the lack thereof). Next on Random Trek: Enterprise’s A Night in Sickbay. <p>Scott McNulty with James Callan.</p>

Marcos Huerta, astronomer, latino, and huge Trek/Sci-fi fan, joins Scott to discuss Man of the People (TNG S6E3). This episode is all Troi all the time (well, it is a lot of Troi, a lot of the time). Topics include how Troi’s character is largely defined by her relationships with other characters, the problematic nature of telepathy, 24th century medaitaror’s shocking lack of prepration for their jobs, and the astounding fact that Star Trek III isn’t as bad as you remember it. Next on Random Trek: DS9’s The Sword of Kahless. <p>Scott McNulty with Marcos Huerta.</p>

Courtney Wilburn, web developer and Levar Burton fan, joins Scott to discuss Symbiosis (TNG S1E22). This is a very special episode of TNG where we learn about the perils of addiction and the questionable tactic of having your entire planet’s economy depend on one crop. Interesting fashion, the allure of TNG, and questions about Dr. Crusher’s medical acumen are all discussed as is the Prime Directive and how Capt. Picard seems to apply it capriciously in this episode. Next on Random Trek: TNG’s Man of the People. <p>Scott McNulty with Courtney Wilburn.</p>

Shareef Jackson, STEM enthusiast, joins Scott to discuss “The Search, Part 1 and Part 2” (DS9 S3E1&2). This episode has everything: the revealing of the Founders, the introduction of the Defiant, and Odo turns into a rock. What more can you ask for? Topics include Star Trek captain’s surprising lack of family, how awesome the Defiant is, and the multilayered character that is Odo. Next on Random Trek: TNG’s Symbiosis. <p>Scott McNulty with Shareef Jackson.</p>

L.M. Myles, writer, podcaster, and Dr. Who fan, joins Scott to discuss “The Visitor” (DS9 S4E3), which, despite the name, doesn’t offer much screentime for Nana Visitor. Old Jake, Young Jake, and an unstuck in time Ben Sisko make for an interesting trio in this episode. Things discussed include popping in on your favorite reclusive writer (they love it!), how Jake causes the death of Dax, and whether or not you’d want to serve on a ship captained by Nog. Next on Random Trek: DS9’s The Search Part 1 & 2. <p>Scott McNulty with Lizbeth Myles.</p>

Frank Wu, Hugo award winning artist, joins Scott to discuss "The Enemy Within" (TOS S1E4). Transporter malfunctions, freezing Sulus, dogs in costumes, and the monster that is inside all of us are all in this episode. Scott and Frank talk about the lyrics to the TOS theme song, what makes us us, the lack of empathy towards Yeoman Rand, and no one thought to take a parka down to an ice planet. Next on Random Trek: The Visitor (DS9).<p>Scott McNulty with Frank Wu.</p>

Kara Scott, poker player and reporter, joins Scott to discuss “Lessons” (TNG S6E19). Awkward kissing, poor Picard wardrobe choices, and a roll out keyboard - This episode has it all. Kara and Scott discuss all manner of things including what it is like to date a Capt. Kirk, mature relationships, and how Capt. Picard makes us a little gooey inside. Next on Random Trek: The Enemy Within (TOS). <p>Scott McNulty with Kara Scott.</p>

Merlin Mann, writer, podcaster, Internet nuisance, joins Scott to discuss Death Wish ( VOY S2E18). This episode proves that the only thing better than one Q is double the Q. Scott and Merlin also discuss timescales when you’re immortal, and if this episode is a good choice for watching with your young daughter. Next on Random Trek: TNG’s Lessons. <p>Scott McNulty with Merlin Mann.</p>

Clint Ecker, programmer and snazzy dresser, joins Scott to talk about “Inside Man” (VOY S7E06). This episode features Reg Barclay, a Random Trek favorite, and Troi. Who doesn’t like Troi? It also has a bonus Reg, creepy stalker behavior, and a great deal of space swimwear. (Next week on Random Trek: Voyager’s Death Wish.) <p>Scott McNulty with Clint Ecker.</p>

Derek Powazek, web developer turned farmer, joins Scott to discuss Deep Space Nine’s “Shakaar” (S3E24). Nothing says a Bajoran DS9 episode like the intersection of religion, internal politics, and agriculture. What do soil reclamators look like? We don’t know and we don’t care. Topics discussed include why we should like the Bajorans more (but we totally like the Cardassians better), dirt farmer, and what does a freedom figher do after they’ve won their freedom. The novel Derek mentions is A Stitch in Time Next on Random Trek: “Inside Man” (VOY). <p>Scott McNulty with Derek Powazek.</p>

Georgia Dow, psychotherapist, senior editor at iMore, and host of Isometric, joins Scott to discuss Voyager’s “The Gift” (S4E2). Shed a tear because this is Kes’ last episode (though why didn’t she take Neelix with her?). This also happens to be the first appearance of the deborgified 7 of 9 in her striking uniform (note the corset, people). Topics include: Georgia’s least favorite TNG character, Scott’s reaction to said least favorite character, one sided pancakes, and why the mention of either lucid dreaming or guided mediation is a warning that you might be watching a bad episode of Star Trek. <p>Scott McNulty with Georgia Dow.</p>

Collin Donnell, developer, twitterer, and brank hacker joins Scott to discuss one of the most iconic TOS episodes: The Devil in the Dark (S1E26). Door opening procedures, appropriate miner garb, Phaser 1 and Phaser 2, and basic mining colony administration tips are all discussed. Plus, the devil isn’t who you think it is (or is it? It isn’t). <p>Scott McNulty with Collin Donnell.</p>

Antony Johnston, writer for comics, graphic novels, and videogames in addition to the host of Unjustly Maligned, joins Scott to discuss DS9’s Equilibrium (S3E4). Trills, symbiotes, potential underground serial killers, and dodgy doctors are all discussed. <p>Scott McNulty with Antony Johnston.</p>

Steven Schapansky, of Radio Free Skaro and the newly launched Lazy Dr. Who, joins Scott to chat about the TOS classic: “The Squire of Gothos” (TOS S1E17)). They discuss the crazy amount of paperwork Starfleet requires, the power of mirrors, and the differences between early Dr. Who and early Star Trek. <p>Scott McNulty with Steven Schapansky.</p>

Joe Rosensteel (that’s Joe Steel to you, kid), podcaster, infrequent Incomparable panelist, and Star Trek fan, joins Scott to discuss Random Trek’s first two part episode: Workforce Part I and Workforce II (VOY S7E16 and 17). Topics include if this should have been a two parter, factory automation, planet-wide shields, and Ralph Malph. These Are The Voyages (Volume 1) by Marc Cushman is also discussed briefly (and you should read it!). <p>Scott McNulty with Joe Rosensteel.</p>

Katie Floyd, a Mac Power User, joins Scott to discuss “The Catwalk” (ENT S2E12). Topics include visceral reactions to the very existence of Enterprise (and the reboot movies), how great the Star Trek novels are, Porthos as the strongest character, water polo and iPad usage in the future. <p>Scott McNulty with Katie Floyd.</p>

David Sparks, better known as Mac Sparky, joins Scott to discuss “A Time To Stand” (DS9 S6E1). David admits that he is a Star Wars fan (shocking!), we compliment Julian Bashir, have questions about the final resolution of the episode, and talk about how without TNG David might not have gotten through law school (he’s a lawyer, you should hire him!). <p>Scott McNulty with David Sparks.</p>

Myke Cole, writer and Capt. America fan, joins Scott to talk about Loud As A Whisper (TNG S2E5). We discuss how accurate the depiction of the military is on TNG, why it is ok that Wesley is driving the Enterprise, the state of lighting on Solais V, and use the phrase “lust warrior” fairly often. We also talk about how this episode has so many good themes, and yet still comes off a little bit on the wrong foot. Also, Riva’s hair. <p>Scott McNulty with Myke Cole.</p>

Annalee Flower Horne, science fiction writer and web developer, joins Scott to talk about The Ensigns of Command (TNG S3E2). We discuss how impossible the impossible is, how many showers Riker takes during a typical TNG episode, and the very important lesson Data learns about kissing. <p>Scott McNulty with Annalee Flower Horne.</p>

Victor Agreda Jr., Angry Dad Gamer and the man behind the Bakers Dozen Rules, joins Scott to discuss “Identity Crisis” (TNG S4E18). Topics include Geordi’s love live, how effects from the 90’s hold up to the HD treatment, and the impacts of Google Glass on the Federation. <p>Scott McNulty with Victor Agreda, Jr..</p>

Carrie Ann Castillo, the woman behind The Little Big Blog joins Scott to discuss “Clues” (TNG S4E14). There’s a mystery afoot. How do we know this? Well, the episode is called “Clues” and Capt. Picard keeps reminding us that there’s a mystery to solve. Data is acting oddly, Troi gets possessed, and the growth rate of moss is a super important plot point. What more can you ask from an episode of Star Trek? <p>Scott McNulty with Carrie Anne Castillo.</p>

Leonard Nimoy, Spock, died on Feb. 27th. On this special episode of Random Trek Scott is joined by a number of past guests who share their thoughts about Spock and their favorite Spock moment. Scott's guests are: Jason Snell - Jason wrote more about Leonard Nimoy. Glenn Fleishman Matt Gemmell Steve Lutz Nicole Wakelin Jean MacDonald Dave Caolo Ged Maheux - Check out Ged's post: Mr. Spock and I. If you liked this episode you should check out The Incomparable 236: "Lived Long and Prospered."<p>Scott McNulty with Jason Snell, Glenn Fleishman, Matt Gemmell, Steve Lutz, Nicole Wakelin, Jean MacDonald, Dave Caolo and Gedeon Maheux.</p>

Nicole Wakelin, editor at GeekMom, Director of Automotive Content at She Buys Cars, and writer all over the place, joins Scott to discuss “Blood Oath” (DS9 S2E19). Who ordered the trio of Klingons? And what’s this about revenge? Star Trek board games are discussed, as is TOS actors reprising roles, and the right and wrong ways to ask someone if they’ve ever murdered someone. <p>Scott McNulty with Nicole Wakelin.</p>

Helene Wecker, author of the fantastic “The Golem and the Jinni” joins Scott to discuss “Oasis” (ENT S1E20). What do you do when you’re stranded on an inhospitable planet? Create holographic friends and eat a lot of kumquats. And who is that in the back? Why, is that Odo? No, it is not. <p>Scott McNulty with Helene Wecker.</p>

Andy Ihnatko, technology writer and podcaster, joins Scott to discuss “Judgement” (ENT S2E19). If you really enjoy Klingon courtrooms and Star Trek VI this episode of Enterprise is for you. Topics discussed include what kind of Star Trek fan Andy is, the problematic nature of Klingons, and lighting in Klingon mines. <p>Scott McNulty with Andy Ihnatko.</p>

Casey Liss, of the Accidental Tech Podcast and Analog(ue), joins Scott to discuss “Shades of Gray” (TNG S2E22). Widely, and correctly, hailed as the worst episode of TNG ever this podcast covers everything from Starfleet Medical’s lax attitude towards quarantining people to the expensive nature of filming a TV show. Did I mention Shades of Gray is a clip show? In the second season of TNG? It isn’t good, people. Not at all. <p>Scott McNulty with Casey Liss.</p>

Matt Gemmell, writer, joins Scott to talk about “All Good Things…” (TNG SE7E25). Random Trek’s first double length episode marks the final episode of “Star Trek: The Next Generation” ever, and possibility its best. Three different timelines, multiple shots of Picard in his jammies, and more cats than you can shake a positronic brain at can all be found in TNG’s finale. As well as some very touching character moments and a fine send off to the Enterprise crew. The twitter account Matt mentions is tng_s8 (for those of use who can’t accept that the 7th season was the final season). <p>Scott McNulty with Matt Gemmell.</p>

Marisa McClellan, cookbook author and the writer behind the popular canning blog Food in Jars, joins Scott (to whom she is married) to discuss "Waltz" (DS9S6E11). Gul Dukat and Sisko are stranded on a remote planet. They eat some soup. They fiddle with a beacon. They argue a lot (sometimes with hallucinations). Dukat spirals completely into madness. A light hearted romp of an episode that will leave you asking: will he or won't he... kill all Bajorans.<p>Scott McNulty with Marisa McClellan.</p>

Chip Sudderth, a host of the Audio Guide to Babylon 5 and host of the Two Minute Time Lord, joins Scott to talk about Evolution (TNG S3E1). Wesley is front and center in this episode and that isn’t as bad as you might think. Hungry, hungry nanobots, sabermetrics, and the proper collars for Star Fleet uniforms are discussed. You’ll also find out what costume Scott would dress up in if he had to cosplay at a Star Trek convention. <p>Scott McNulty with Chip Sudderth.</p>

Shannon Sudderth, a host of the Audio Guide to Babylon 5 and frequent Two Minute Time Lord guest, joins Scott to talk about Inheritance (TNG S7E10). Topics include phasering to the candy center of a planet, the future of women in technology, and the realization that even androids can be embarrassed by their mom. <p>Scott McNulty with Shannon Sudderth.</p>

Anže Tomić, podcaster and writer, joins Scott to talk about “The Chase” (TNG S6E10). This episode answers the question: why do all Star Trek aliens look a like? And the answer isn’t that great (turns out). We also discuss our favorite Trek movies, if this episode should have been a two parter, and why the Cardassians rock. <p>Scott McNulty with Anže Tomić.</p>

Christina Warren, tech analyst, podcaster, and internet maven, joins Scott to talk about “Darmok” (TNG S5E2). Does this episode of TNG live up to the hype? Is Capt. Picard a their? And were did he get his Members Only jacket? All this plus Emoji on this Christmas episode of Random Trek. <p>Scott McNulty with Christina Warren.</p>

Lisa Maria Martin, content strategist and information architect, joins Scott to discuss Initiations (VOY S2E2). This episode is one of those rare gems: a Chakotay centric story. Topics discussed include the deal with Neelix and what it is, Chakotay’s ambiguous tribal associates and fake rituals, and why the Kazon can build starships but can’t find water. <p>Scott McNulty with Lisa Maria Martin.</p>

Brett Terpstra, a man of many projects, joins Scott to discuss The Measure of a Man (TNG S2E9). Such topics as the existence of souls, how to disarm (literally) an android, and how Riker evolves as a character are all touched upon. <p>Scott McNulty with Brett Terpstra.</p>

Deborah Stanish, of the Verity Podcast (all about Dr. Who), joins Scott to discuss Pen Pals (TNG S2E15). They ponder the ramifications of the Prime Directive, the Riker School of Management vs. the Picard School of Management, wiping someone's memory without permission, and horse riding. <p>Scott McNulty with Deborah Stanish.</p>

Jean MacDonald, founder of App Camp for Girls, joins Scott to talk about “The Mark of Gideon” (TOS S3E17). Overpopulation, cranky Spock, the Gideon’s seeming complete lack of knowledge about how disease works, and the horrible life sucking powers of bureaucracy are all touched upon. Random Trek shirts are available for a few more days. You don’t want to be the only one at the Star Trek convention without one, do you? <p>Scott McNulty with Jean MacDonald.</p>

Guy English, of Aged and Distilled and Debug, joins Scott to chat about "Who Watches The Watchers" (TNG S3E4). Religion vs. mythology, poor archery skills, Romulans, the ethics of creepily observing developing societies, and who loves the Prime Directive most are all covered during this episode. Don't miss your chance to buy a Random Trek Shirt, now available for a limited time.<p>Scott McNulty with Guy English.</p>

Jamelle Bouie, staff writer at Slate, joins Scott to talk about Babel (DS9 S1E5). This episode features an aggrieved O’Brien, a poorly emoted Jake, and a goatee-less Sisko. Listen as we talk about why anyone would pay for replicated food, uncomfortable Ferengi characteristics, and how Voyager could have been good. <p>Scott McNulty with Jamelle Bouie.</p>

Katrina Griffiths, of the Verity Podcast, joins Scott to discuss the second Star Trek TOS pilot: Where No Man Has Gone Before (TOS S1E1 or 3). 60’s contact lenses, Creepy Gary Mitchell transforming into Creepier Gary Mitchell, and the fate of Dr. Dehner are all covered. <p>Scott McNulty with Kat Griffiths.</p>

Anthony Pascale, the man behind TrekMovie.com, joins Scott to talk about DS9's "Rivals" (S2E11). Topics include the finer points of space racquet ball, Prince Humperdinck, how pressing a button on an orb makes not a compelling casino game, and what Sisko does when he is alone in his office.<p>Scott McNulty with Anthony Pascale.</p>

Matthew Yglesias, executive editor of Vox, joins Scott to discuss Minefield (ENT, S2E4). Among the topics discussed include Matt’s crazy Trek lists, why no one on the Enterprise seems capable of doing anything, and what’s the deal with those crazy complicated mines anyway? <p>Scott McNulty with Matthew Yglesias.</p>

Jordan Cooper, host of the Tech Douchebags podcast, joins Scott to have some small talk about “Starship Mine” (TNG S6EP18). We discuss Capt. Picard’s fake horse-riding affinity, Tuvok’s shady past, why Geordi is the only hungry officer, and how to get out of attending a funeral when you’re a Starfleet Captain. If you enjoyed this episode you might enjoy the episode of Tech Douchebags I was on: The Book Hoarder. <p>Scott McNulty with Jordan Cooper.</p>

Tony Sindelar, the Incomparable and co-DM of Total Party Kill, joins Scott to discuss TNG’s First Contact (S4E15). Topics include Riker’s total lack of guile, Malcorian facial hair, the naming of planets, alien groupies, and when it is appropriate to beam somewhere. <p>Scott McNulty with Tony Sindelar.</p>

Lex Friedman, famous for not having seen it, being Daily, Rebounding, and Turning a Car Around, joins Scott to talk about Sleeping Dogs (Enterprise S1E14). Scott expresses mild shock and then major regret after learning that this episode is the first Star Trek episode Lex has ever seen (spoiling: Sleeping Dogs is not a great first Star Trek experience). We determine that T’Pal is a Vulcan, Hoshi is better than the Universal Translator, and ponder just how badly it smelled on that Klingon ship. <p>Scott McNulty with Lex Friedman.</p>

Monty Ashely, Incomparable panelist and Internet writer, joins Scott to talk about The Original Serie’s second Harry Mudd episode: I, Mudd (S2E12). Uniforms, the concept of computers (and if the Star Trek writers have any idea how they work), and Kirk taking the law in his own hands are all discussed. <p>Scott McNulty with Monty Ashley.</p>