Destiny.

When Sisko first arrives at Bajor in “Emissary,” he learns that he is viewed by the Bajorans as a religious icon. It’s an identity he struggles with through much of the series, but eventually comes to terms with. By “Rapture” at the midpoint of Season Five, Sisko has fully embrace prophecy and matters of Bajoran faith are guiding many of his actions. The road to “Rapture” was a long one, however. The easily overlooked linchpin is the third-season episode “Destiny,” a quiet story about scientific cooperation between Cardassia, Bajor, and the Federation.

In this episode of The Ready Room we’re joined by John Mills and Norman Lao to discuss this short-lived thawing of relations between warring factions, the religious and political forces tugging at the process, how Trakor’s Third Prophecy is a turning point for both Kira and Sisko, how our own views and agendas color our interpretation of Deep Space Nine, and how “Destiny” plays into Sisko’s overall character arc.

In our news segment we discuss Paramount’s decision to airlock Orci, whether or not Frakes could actually take the helm, and what the various rumored directors could mean for the film and Star Trek. We also debate the results of StarTrek.com’s poll about which series made the best use of the holodeck.

Hosts

Christopher Jones and John W. Mills

Guest

Norman C. Lao

Editor and Producer

Christopher Jones

Associate Producer

Renee Roberts

Production Manager

Richard Marquez

Content Coordinator

Will Nguyen

News

Paramount dumps Orci. Could Frakes take command? (00:02:57)

Poll:  The Star Trek series that made the best use of the holodeck was... (00:13:24)

Feature: Destiny

Intro and Synopsis (00:19:36)

All In on Faith (00:22:47)

Scientific Cooperation (00:25:46)

Diversity and Interpretation (00:38:06)

Testing Sisko’s Faith (00:47:51)

Agendas and Viewpoints (00:58:44)

Final Thoughts (01:05:04)

Closing (01:10:15)

Send us your feedback!

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The Naked Now.

When The Next Generation launched, Gene Roddenberry and the writers wanted to make sure it had its own identity and wasn’t perceived as a rehash of The Original Series. So for the second episode, they pulled out a script written in 1967 as a planned sequel to "The Naked Time" and reworked it a bit to feature the crew of this new Galaxy Class starship. More fancy water molecules meant more life-threatening strange behavior, and a story that felt wildly familiar to the fans TNG was trying to win over.

In this episode of The Ready Room we’re joined by Daniel Proulx, Suzanne Abbott, and Andi VanderKolk to discuss this second take on polywater intoxication, the different ways in which the Enterprise-D crew behave, Riker’s obsession with the showering habits of the 23rd century, weepy drunks, angry drunks, Acting Captain Wesley Crusher, and much more.

In our news segment we look back at 18 years of Star Trek First Contact, find out about the final push for Marc Cushman's These Are the Voyages Volume 3, and debate which crew faced the most adversity.

Hosts

Christopher Jones and Daniel Proulx

Guests

Suzanne Abbott, and Andi VanderKolk

Editor and Producer

Christopher Jones

Associate Producer

Renee Roberts

News

Marking 18 years since First Contact (00:02:59)

Poll: The crew that faced the most adversity was... (00:22:19)

Support Marc Cushman's These Are the Voyages, Volume 3 (00:32:27)

Feature: The Naked Time

Intro and Synopsis (00:43:34)

A Second Dose of Polywater (00:50:45)

Android Love and Fashion: Writing Yar (00:59:59)

Horny Doctor (01:05:45)

Confused Counselor (01:08:52)

Riker’s Leggy Playground (01:13:21)

Weepy Drunk, Angry Drunk (01:18:34)

If You Prick Him, Does He Not Leak? (01:27:47)

Acting Captain Wesley Crusher (01:33:39)

Nekkid Remastering (01:37:01)

Closing (01:45:06)

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The Naked Time.

The Next Generation went out of its way to avoid connections with The Original Series, but one thing they have in common is crew members getting drunk on water. TNG fans know it as the Psi-2000 virus, but in Kirk’s day it was just good ole polywater. Thanks to highly questionable environmental suit design and procedures that would make the CDC cringe, the crew of the Enterprise fell victim to some fancy water molecules that almost killed them. Potential cause of death? Strange behavior.

In this episode of The Ready Room we’re joined by John Mills, Drew Stewart, and Norm Lao to discuss newly introduced characters acting out of character, crying Vulcans, and why there’s always room for time travel. We also explain how to deal with shrinkage and space madness, and we do it all whilst singing a rousing rendition of “I’ll Take You Home Again, Kathleen.”

In our news segment we discuss Paramount's plans for a resort in London, Kate Mulgrew's upcoming memoir Born with Teeth, and look back at 20 years of Star Trek Generations.

Hosts

Christopher Jones and John W. Mills

Guests

Drew Stewart and Norman C. Lao

Editor and Producer

Christopher Jones

Associate Producer

Renee Roberts

News

Looking back at 20 years of Star Trek Generations (00:02:44)

Paramount plans to open London resort with Star Trek (00:22:33)

Kate Mulgrew to release memoir in 2015 (00:32:08)

Feature: The Naked Time

Intro and Synopsis (00:36:10)

Initial Thoughts (00:41:41)

Vulcan’s Don’t Cry (00:46:02)

Space Madness! (00:58:15)

Dealing with Shrinkage (01:04:40)

There’s Always Room for Time Travel (01:10:08)

Final Thoughts (01:25:10)

Closing (01:30:05)

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Cogenitor.

When we see injustices, it's natural for us to want to change them. But when those injustices involve an alien culture, is it really fair for us to impose our human views on others? This was one of the biggest challenges for early explorers and comes into play when Trip encounters a situation that seems very wrong to him, but is perfectly normal, accepted, and in fact critical to the Vissians. Despite good intentions, his actions to right a perceived wrong have devastating consequences.

In this episode of The Ready Room, we’re joined by Daniel Proulx and Matthew Rushing to discuss “Cogenitor,” the idea of a species that requires three genders to reproduce, the reasons why the Vissians may oppress the cogenitors, the repercussions of Trip’s actions, and, of course, the sensual cheese eating habits of Malcolm Reed.

In our news segment we find out how Wesley Crusher's amazing technicolor sweater can keep you warm this winter, which senior officer post fans most want to fill, and how you can design an actual Enterprise that will orbit the Earth.

Hosts

Christopher Jones and Daniel Proulx

Guest

Matthew Rushing

Editor and Producer

Christopher Jones

Associate Producer

Renee Roberts

News

Wesley Crusher technicolor sweater now available! (2:35)

Poll: The senior officer position most fans want to hold is… (13:46)

Help Enterprise In Space design the NSS Enterprise orbiter (21:58)

Feature: Cogenitor

Intro and Synopsis (27:04)

The Birds and the Bees… and the Ants? Tri-Gendered Reproduction (32:18)

Oppression for the Greater Good? (42:43)

Cultural Differences and Self Control (1:01:43)

The Sensual Cheese Eating Habits of One Malcolm Reed (1:13:48)

Don’t Think About the Language (1:16:17)

Repercussions and Lessons Learned (1:20:14)

Final Thoughts (1:24:35)

Closing (1:28:57)

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Macrocosm.

Have you ever felt that Star Trek episodes are a bit too talky? A bit too “high and mighty”? Ever wish you could have a dash of Rambo with your Star Trek? Well, Brannon Braga thought so and thus sent Janeway—ripped biceps, tank top, and all—to save the crew from a giant bug infestation in the third-season episode “Macrocosm.”

In this episode of The Ready Room we’re joined by Phillip Gilfus, Charlynn Schmiedt, and Suzanne Abbott to discuss the germ-filled episode, how well it succeeds in achieving Braga’s goals, its role as CGI testbed for later Voyager, the space podcasting of Neelix, and the origins of the Tak Tak language. If you listen long enough, you may even find out about the Tak Tak version of William Shatner.

In our news segment, we find out what Ensign Williams needs in order to record her second set of Red Shirt Diaries, debate which Enterprise would be the best to captain, and take a moment to reflect on the recent tragedy involving Virgin Galactic.

Hosts

Christopher Jones and Phillip Gilfus

Guests

Charlynn Schmiedt and Suzanne Abbott

Editor and Producer

Christopher Jones

Associate Producer

Renee Roberts

News

Virgin Galactic’s SpaceShipTwo crashes during test flight (3:39)

Help make The Red Shirt Diaries Season Two a reality (9:49)

Poll: Which Enterprise would you choose to captain? (17:41)

Feature: Macrocosm

Intro and Synopsis (26:38)

The Language of the Tak Tak (30:26)

Neelix: Space Podcaster (38:02)

Getting Gooed On (40:15)

Looking for Some Action (43:51)

Too Much Rambo? (52:48)

CGI Test Run (58:29)

Footloose and Fancy Free (1:04:29)

Ambassador Neelix (1:10:22)

Vibrating Chakotay (1:13:23)

The Doctor Needs Directions? (1:15:42)

Final Thoughts (1:20:24)

Closing (1:27:55)

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Become a Trek.fm Patron on Patreon and help us keep Star Trek talk coming every week. We have great perks for you at http://patreon.com/trekfm

In the Pale Moonlight.

Star Trek fans often question Sisko’s methods. As Starfleet captains go—at least those we saw as leads—Sisko is perhaps the least likely to do things “by the book.” One act that is cited most often is Sisko’s decision to bring the Romulans into the Dominion War, the deceptions he concocted together with Garak, and the fact that, in the end, he was okay with it. “In the Pale Moonlight” is frequently praised as one of the best episodes of not only DS9 but of Star Trek, yet there are also those who see it as a betrayal of Gene Roddenberry’s vision of the future.

In this episode of The Ready Room we’re joined by Matthew Rushing, Jeremy Reed, and Jaime Sanchez to discuss “In the Pale Moonlight,” why it remains one of Star Trek’s most controversial yet satisfying moments, and why real life sometimes pushes people to compromise their own values for the greater good.

In our news segment, we discuss the future implications of CBS All Access for Star Trek, find out what’s waiting for you in Larry Nemecek’s Trekland Trunk, explain how you can help get Star Trek creatives on the panels for Destination Star Trek London 2016, and help you create a night of spooky Treks for Halloween.

Hosts
Christopher Jones and Matthew Rushing

Guests
Jeremy Reed and Jaime Sanchez

Editor and Producer
Christopher Jones

Associate Producer
Renee Roberts

News
CBS brings Star Trek to its new streaming service (4:22)
Help bring Star Trek creatives to Destination Star Trek London 2016 (18:43)
The Trekland Trunk overflowing with treasures once again (22:40)
Spook Treks: Star Trek episodes for Halloween (26:23)
Sponsor: Audible (33:55)

Feature: In the Pale Moonlight
Intro and Synopsis (35:58)
Initial Thoughts (38:55)
A Unique Framework (44:15)
Earlier Drafts (54:01)
Questionable Actions (58:35)
The Importance of Romulans (1:10:38)
A Sisko-Garak Joint (1:17:29)
Erasing the Log (1:29:25)
Final Thoughts (1:36:24)
Closing (1:43:59)

Send us your feedback!
Twitter: @trekfm
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Voicemail: http://www.speakpipe.com/trekfm
Contact Form: http://www.trek.fm/contact
Visit the Trek.fm website at http://trek.fm/
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Become a Trek.fm Patron on Patreon and help us keep Star Trek talk coming every week. We have great perks for you at http://patreon.com/trekfm

Sarek.

First introduced in “Journey to Babel,” Sarek of Vulcan is one of the best known characters from The Original Series, perhaps due primarily to his role in The Search for Spock and subsequent TOS films. Following McCoy’s cameo in “Encounter at Farpoint,” it took a while for familiar faces from Star Trek's past to return to the screen. Finally, in the TNG's third season, the wall between past and present began to come down as Spock's father came aboard Picard's Enterprise. Seeing Sarek shed tears at a musical performance and lose control of his emotions was a major advancement in making Vulcans more than just "logical," but making this happen wasn't as straightforward as one would think.

In this episode of The Ready Room, we're joined by Matthew Rushing, Larry Nemecek, and John Champion to discuss the episode "Sarek," how the evolution of the story showed continuing reservations on the part of Gene Roddenberry about connecting TOS and TNG even near the end of TNG's third season, as well as Sarek's place within the Star Trek universe and the battle to speak Spock's name on screen.

In our news segment, we debate which series deserved an additional season, io9's list of the Top 100 episodes, and play with Larami's classic Star Trek: The Motion Picture tie-in toys from 1979.

Hosts

Christopher Jones and Matthew Rushing

Guests

Larry Nemecek and John Champion

Editor and Producer

Christopher Jones

Associate Producer

Renee Roberts

News

Looking back at Larami Star Trek: The Motion Picture Tie-ins (3:02)

Poll: Which Star Trek series deserved another season? (11:51)

io9's list of the Top 100 Star Trek episodes (28:56)

Sponsor: Audible (37:46)

Feature: Sarek

Intro and Synopsis (41:24)

Sarek's Place in Star Trek (44:20)

Bring Sarek to The Next Generation (52:39)

Evolving Vulcans, Shedding Light on Emotion (1:16:30)

Slapping John Champion Crusher (1:29:12)

Spock Is Voldemort (1:33:42)

Final Thoughts (1:42:34)

Closing (1:50:11)

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Become a Trek.fm Patron on Patreon and help us keep Star Trek talk coming every week. We have great perks for you at http://patreon.com/trekfm

Catspaw.

Many TV series have Halloween specials, but Star Trek is NOT one of them. Of course, it isn’t like they didn’t try. The Original Series did its part; the later series just didn’t follow suit. On October 27, 1967, Kirk, Spock, and Bones got quite a fright with the airing of “Catspaw.” It was the first episode produced for Season Two, yet was held until the week of Halloween.

In this episode of The Ready Room we're joined by Charlynn Schmiedt, Drew Stewart, and Jennie Zell to discuss the concept of a Star Trek Halloween episode, haunted house aliens Korob and Sylvia, sympathetic magic, dungeons, cats, and, of course, Chekov's hair.

In our news segment we break down the results of StarTrek.com's Captains vs. Zombies poll, check out some spiffy new LCARS wallpaper for iPhone, and tour the country to find out which state has the most Star Trek fans.

Hosts

Christopher Jones and Charlynn Schmiedt

Guests

Drew Stewart and Jennie Zell

Editor and Producer

Christopher Jones

Associate Producer

Renee Roberts

News

Star Trek Captains vs. Zombies (3:53)

New LCARS wallpaper for your iPhone 6 and 6 Plus (10:59)

The States with the most Star Trek fans (18:13)

Sponsor: Audible (26:33)

Feature: Catspaw

Intro and Synopsis (29:20)

Halloween in Space (40:30)

Have You Met Chekov's Hair? (48:10)

Meet the Koroborator (54:41)

Sylvia [Actual Chapter Title Redacted] (1:07:15)

Sympathetic Magic and Other Oddities (1:16:12)

Final Thoughts (1:22:30)

Closing (1:31:49)

Send us your feedback!

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Precious Cargo.

As one of the Starfleet's earliest explorers, James T. Kirk gained a reputation for finding an alien love interest on every world he visited. A century earlier, in Kirk-like fashion, Trip Tucker found himself in a situation that could have easily taken place on The Original Series as he rescued a princess. It's Sleeping Beauty with a twist—and a dash of Han and Leia—packaged with a strip of jerkey and a swamp swim. "Precious Cargo" is an episode that the creators considered so bad that Brannon Braga reportedly begged Rick Berman not to air it. Is it really that terrible?

In this episode of The Ready Room we're joined by Matthew Rushing, Charlynn Schmiedt, and John Mills to discuss this story that takes inspiration and connections from not only TOS but from TNG as well. With a princess telling Trip "you're my only hope" (seriously), Archer and T'Pol playing Good Cop/Bad Cop, and the ship from Pigs In Space, there's so much fun to explore that we're left scratching our heads in light of the creators' scorn.

In our news segment we find out about the Smithsonian's Enterprise move, Orci shunning the Power Rangers to focus on Star Trek, and a look at what's coming up at Destination Star Trek London.

Hosts

Christopher Jones and Matthew Rushing

Guests

Charlynn Schmiedt and John Mills

Editor and Producer

Christopher Jones

Associate Producer

Renee Roberts

News

The Smithsonian starts its Enterprise move (3:54)

Orci shuns the Power Rangers to focus on Star Trek (8:28)

Destination Star Trek London (14:00)

Support Trek.fm on Patreon (20:25)

Sponsor: Audible (21:57)

Feature: Precious Cargo

Intro and Synopsis (24:50)

Please Don't Air This Crap! Signed, the Creators (28:22)

Why Matthew Loves Precious Cargo: A Theory (34:14)

A TOS Feel (35:59)

The Evolution of Human Naivity (41:02)

I'm King of the Swamp! (48:43)

Acting Princess (54:28)

Trip's Influence on Kaitaama (1:03:23)

Good Cop, Bad Cop (1:12:53)

A Missed Opportunity to Revisit? (1:20:59)

Final Thoughts (1:24:56)

Closing (1:33:02)

Support the Network!

Become a Trek.fm Patron on Patreon and help us keep Star Trek talk coming every week. We have great perks for you at http://patreon.com/trekfm

Send us your feedback!

Twitter: @trekfm

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Pathfinder.

Reginald Barclay is a fan favorite from The Next Generation despite appearing in only five episodes. But did you realize he appeared in more episodes of Voyagerthan TNG? It took the writers a long while to bring Reg back after his appearance in the second-season episode “Projections,” but once they did he played a key role in getting Voyager home starting with “Pathfinder” in Season Six.

In this episode of The Ready Room we're joined by Charlynn Schmiedt, Suzanne Abbott, and Jaime Sanchez to discuss Barclay's counseling session with Deanna Troi, his status as top dog of coolness amongst the holographic Voyager crew, what the episode says about those with addictions, and whether or not there should have been more stories throughout the series about Starfleet's search for the missing ship.

In our news segment we look at Rittenhouse Archives' new alien trading cards series, imagine which card series would reel us in, find out what Starship Farraguthas in store for fans, and get an inside scoop on the prospects for DS9 Blu-rays viaThe Digital Bits. 

Hosts

Christopher Jones and Charlynn Schmiedt

Guests

Suzanne Abbott and Jaime Sanchez

Editor and Producer

Christopher Jones

Associate Producer

Renee Roberts

News

Rittenhouse Archives unveils new alien trading cards (2:40)

The Digital Bits fields DS9 Blu-ray question (9:45)

Starship Farragut launches Kickstarter for "The Crossing" (15:58)

Join our discussion in The Babel Conference (20:25)

Support Trek.fm through Patreon (25:02)

Sponsor: Audible (27:15)

Feature: Pathfinder

Intro and Synopsis (30:09)

Initial Thoughts (37:02)

Reg and Deanna, Welcome Back (45:56)

Crossing the Boundaries of TOS and  TNG (53:33)

Starfleet Remembers Voyager! (56:48)

Commentary on Holo-addiction (1:04:58)

Over the Top or Just Right? (1:17:23)

Final Thoughts (1:20:20)

Closing and Feedback (1:27:52)

Support the Network!

Become a Trek.fm Patron on Patreon and help us keep Star Trek talk coming every week. We have great perks for you at http://patreon.com/trekfm

Send us your feedback!

Twitter: @trekfm

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Defiant.

When a transporter accident turned William Thomas into two separate people, it did more than just get Troi all excited about the prospect of two Rikers. It also set up a great crossover opportunity for TNG and DS9. Once The Next Generation had left the air and Deep Space Nine was in its third season, bringing Jonathan Frakes to the Station made perfect sense. But this was better than a cameo. “Defiant” played off of a unique event from Star Trek’s past to create an episode that added to the story.

In this episode of The Ready Room we're joined by Matthew Rushing, Daniel Proulx, and Eric Brasure to discuss Thomas Riker's visit to DS9, his role in the Maquis, whether or not the writers missed an opportunity by not following up on this story, and we try to figure out why Kira is objects to everything except Riker's seductive glance.

In our news segment we discuss the conclusion to the TNG remastered project, the "All Good Things" Blu-ray, Gates McFadden's unique fundraiser for her next theatrical production, and we welcome Mission Log: A Roddenberry Star Trek Podcast to the network.

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Chapters

News

TNG Season 7 Blu-ray trailer and All Good Things… (2:57)

Welcome Mission Log: A Roddenberry Star Trek Podcast to Trek.fm! (21:29)

Gates McFadden kicks off Krusher Kontest to fund theatre (25:52)

Support Trek.fm on Patreon (33:42)

Sponsor: Audible (34:56)

Feature: Defiant

Intro and Synopsis (37:33)

Initial Thoughts (40:17)

Riker Don't Like Him No O'Brien No More (45:32)

Bringing Frakes and Riker to Deep Space Nine (48:46)

What If Worf Were There? (56:12)

The Maquis Connection (1:03:20)

Setting Up "The Die Is Cast" (1:13:35)

Dukat Doesn't Get It (1:21:57)

Kira Objects! (1:31:39)

Final Thoughts (1:40:29)

Closing (1:49:35)

A Matter of Time.

We’ve all asked ourselves, at least once, if the crew of the Enterprise-D has a grasp of the fundamentals. And, of course, the best way to find out would be to travel to the year 2368 and observe them first hand. That’s what Professor Berlinghoff Rasmussen did in the fifth-season episode “A Matter of Time,” where the "inventor" from 22nd-century New Jersey with a 26th-century time ship posed as a historian observing Picard's mission to Penthara IV.

In this episode of The Ready Room we're joined by Sebastian Prooth, Andi VanderKolk, and Daniel Handlin to discuss Matt Frewer's guest appearance on TNG as well as what the episode might have been like had the role been played by the actor it was originally written for, Robin Williams. We also explore the dilemma faced by Picard with the possibility of advance knowledge at hand, the concept of using time travel for historical research, and finally figure out who Future Guy from Enterprise really is.

In our news segment we talk about the premiere of The Red Shirt Diaries, explain how you can help get the USS Titan into the Official Starships Collection, and debate which captain was best under pressure.

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Twitter: @trekfm

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Chapters

News

The Red Shirt Diaries premieres (3:06)

And the captain who was best under pressure is… (8:43)

Support Trek.fm on Patreon (15:25)

Help get the USS Titan into the Official Starships Collection (17:33)

Sponsor: Audible (24:15)

Feature: A Matter of Time

Synopsis and Initial Thoughts (29:03)

Seeking Help from the Future (35:31)

Mork or Max Headroom? Choosing the Best Rasmussen (39:23)

Crew Reactions to Rasmussen (52:32)

Using Time Travel as a Tool for Historians (1:04:52)

Picard's Dilemma (1:16:20)

Final Thoughts (1:23:11)

Closing (1:29:46)

The Green Girl.

One of the most famous aliens in Star Trek is the Orion slave girl, and the most classic “green” moment comes from “The Cage,” compliments of Susan Oliver. The prolific star is best known to Star Trek fans for this role, yet her appearance in Star Trek is but a speck on the landscape of her career as an actress and director. In this episode of The Ready Room we take a break from our usual format as we're joined by Larry Nemecek and writer/director George Pappy to talk about his new documentary The Green Girl, which chronicles the life of Susan Oliver, her film and television work, attempts to break the glass ceiling for female directors, and more.

In our news segment we get a first-hand recap of the Geek Nation Tours trek to Las Vegas, discuss how recent awards and campaigns for Star Trek Continues and Star Trek: Axanar highlight the growing fan desire for new Trek, and assess the prospects for the remastering of Deep Space Nine and Voyager in light of some recent panels and interviews with those who might spearheads the projects.

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Chapters

News

Geek Nation Tours recap (2:48)

Support Trek.fm on Patreon (17:27)

Star Trek Continues and Axanar drive fandom fever (19:46)

Prospects for DS9 and Voyager on Blu-ray (32:49)

Feature: The Green Girl

The Genesis of the Project (53:54)

Susan Oliver's Impact on Star Trek (1:03:19)

TV, Film, Stage, and a Blackballed Career (1:17:47)

Directing, Aviation, and More (1:24:19)

The Takeway (1:44:31)

Get the Documentary and Find Out More (1:51:16)

Closing (1:54:43)

The Enterprise Incident.

The cloaking device is one of the most powerful strategic technologies in Star Trek, coveted by the Federation even in 24th century. So when the little space birds started tweeting about the Romulans having one, Kirk and Spock had no choice but to stage an elaborate play in order to get their hands on it. It came to be known as "The Enterprise Incident," and introduced a number of elements that would be revisited time and again throughout Star Trek.

In this episode of The Ready Room we're joined by John Mills, Drew Stewart, and Jaime Sanchez to talk about Kirk and Spock's convoluted—and somewhat sensual—mission to steal a cloaking device, William Shatner's take on Romulans, why Joanne Linville should get more credit, and we reveal the true story behind the Romulan use of Klingon ship designs.

In our news segment we debate the results of StarTrek.com's Mirror Universe poll, field listener Gene Russell's Question from the Fleet about pilot episodes and title sequences, and remember Arlene Martel, who portrayed T'Pring in one of the most famous Star Trek episode ever "Amok Time."

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Twitter: @trekfm

Facebook: http://facebook.com/trekfm

Voicemail: http://www.speakpipe.com/trekfm

Contact Form: http://www.trek.fm/contact

Chapters

News

Remembering Alene Martel (2:23)

And the Favorite Mirror Universe episode is… (9:30)

Question from the Fleet: Pilot + Title Sequence Faceoff (18:44)

Sponsor: Audible (31:40)

Feature: The Enterprise Incident

Intro and Synopsis (36:43)

Thoughts and Memories (43:19)

You Pointy-Eared Bastard (49:09)

A Convoluted Mission (55:36)

Damn That Ship Looks Familiar! (1:05:23)

Spock and [Redacted]: A Love Story (1:13:03)

Influencing Later Trek (1:25:56)

Final Thoughts (1:32:42)

Closing (1:40:00)

Dear Doctor.

In the vast majority of Star Trek episodes we know that our crews are being guided by Starfleet General Order One, or the Prime Directive. It’s Starfleet’s highest law and a framework for interactive with alien cultures. Captain Archer had no such directive to guide his actions, and the need for one became very obvious when a request for medical assistance led the NX-01 to the planet Valakis and an encounter with two sentient humanoid species sharing an unusual symbiotic relationship.

In this episode of The Ready Room we're joined by Tommy Kraft, Sebastian Prooth, and Eric Brasure to discuss the ethical dilemmas faced by Archer and Phlox, cultural understanding, when it is and isn't appropriate to "play God," the need for the Prime Directive, and why we miss Kellie Waymire.

In our news segment we discuss the idea of a Captain Worf television series now that a new video interview with Michael Dorn has surfaced, William Shatner's new documentary about the making of The Next Generation, Chaos On the Bridge, and thoughts on the DS9 finale from those who created it. 

The Thaw.

Over the years Starfleet crews have faced off against a dizzying array of opponents. Mainstream baddies like Klingons, Romulans, and Borg are formidable but straightforward. Technical glitches like holodeck malfunctions or sentient silicon are also fairly routine. But what happens when your opponent isn’t something tangible but rather an emotion? We’ve gone on yellow alert against out own imaginations, but when the personification of Fear comes around it’s not quite so easy to just stop thinking about it. As the Clown said, when your only reality is an illusion, then illusion is reality.

In this episode of The Ready Room we're joined by Megan Calcote of Educating Geeks, Miles McLoughlin of The Scifi Diner, and Charlynn Schmiedt of To The Journey to discuss Voyager's encounter with Fear in the second-season episode "The Thaw," the mixed fan reception this episode has gotten over the years, the unique nature of the story and the visuals—including the Marvin Rush's inspiration as the director—the importance of having a hologram around, and how fear can both benefit and cripple us under different circumstances.

In our news segment we share our thoughts on the ten best Klingons as selected at One Trek Mind Live at Star Trek Las Vegas, recap convention cosplay, and discuss Brannon Braga's thoughts on Seven of Nine and her role on Voyager.

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Twitter: @trekfm

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Voicemail: http://www.speakpipe.com/trekfm

Contact Form: http://www.trek.fm/contact

News

Brannon Braga talks about Seven of Nine (2:41)

And the ten best Klingons are… (15:54)

Star Trek Las Vegas Cosplay recap (26:36)

Sponsor: Audible (37:08)

Feature: The Thaw

Intro and Synopsis (40:52)

Mixed Fan Reaction to a Crazy Clown (43:53)

Bringing Imagination to Life (50:12)

It's Handy to Have a Hologram (55:45)

The Nuances of a Holographic Janeway (1:04:23)

Overcoming Fear (1:12:28)

Creative Approaches to Fear (1:21:06)

Final Thoughts (1:27:49)

Closing and Feedback (1:35:35)

If Wishes Were Horses.

Aliens appearing onboard a starship or space station is nothing new to Star Trek. But normally you expect to see a menace like Klingons, the Borg, or a woman in go-go boots and a bling belt—none of whom can spin straw into gold. As Terry J. Erdmann said in the DS9 Companion, “If Wishes Were Horses” could have been just another “mysterious-aliens-play-head-games-with-the-Star Trek-crew” story. Instead it morphed into a delightfully whimsical episode. Or did it?

In this episode of The Ready Room we're joined by Megan Calcote, Von Glitschka, and John Mills to discuss the power of imagination, the demise of baseball, the challenges of working with space emus, the fantasy life of Julian Bashir, and, of course, Rumpelstiltskin.

In our news segment we share our thoughts on The Primate Directive, which is IDW's crossover between Star Trek and Planet of the Apes, comments by Benedict Cumberbatch and Zachary Quinto about Khan possibly appearing in the next film, and we discuss the results of StarTrek.com's poll that asked fans to choose the saddest death scene in Star Trek.

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Twitter: @trekfm

Facebook: http://facebook.com/trekfm

Voicemail: http://www.speakpipe.com/trekfm

Contact Form: http://www.trek.fm/contact

News

IDW's The Primate Directive combines Star Trek and Planet of the Apes (2:07)

And the saddest death scene in Star Trek is… (7:42)

Could Khan appear in the third Abramsverse Star Trek film? (23:31)

Sponsor: Audible (30:12)

Feature: If Wishes Were Horses

Initial Thoughts (34:09)

The Star Trek V Retcon (42:41)

Explorers on a Mission: Good Idea or Rehash? (45:09)

The Power of Imagination (52:36)

Who Were These Aliens Anyway? (1:01:10)

Quark, You Disgust Me! (1:05:00)

The Fantasy Life of Julian Bashir (1:12:26)

Expanded Baseball Mythology (1:22:41)

Running Short On Material (1:35:48)

Closing (1:40:40)

Launching TNG with Mission Log.

Few creators get a second change to explore their original vision. Gene Roddenberry got such a chance with The Next Generation twenty-one years after the original Star Trek first aired. TNG’s pilot "Encounter at Farpoint" is a restatement of Gene's utopian ideas, which are challenged by Q. But, of course, these ideas evolved a bit over the course of two decades.

In this episode of The Ready Room we're joined by John Champion and Ken Ray of Mission Log: A Roddenberry Star Trek Podcast, who are preparing to launch into TNG on their show. We talk about the transition from TOS to TNG as a platform for Gene's message, impressions of the new ship and crew, twenty-fourth-century technology, meeting Q for the first time, "Encounter at Farpoint," and more. 

In our news segment we look at Star Trek events at San Diego Comic-Con, discuss the real status of Roberto Orci as director of the next film, and reveal our picks for the best engineering set.

News

San Diego Comic-Con Star Trek events (3:22)

Prelude to Axanar premieres at San Diego Comic-Con (11:34)

And the best Star Trek engineering set is… (13:50)

Is Orci directing Star Trek 3 or not? (23:59)

Sponsor: Audible (30:05)

Feature: Launching TNG and Encounter at Farpoint with Mission Log

Impressions of TNG (33:19)

The Tone of The Next Generation (41:55)

The 1701-D and Visions of the Future (51:51)

The TNG Characters (57:40)

Meeting Q for the Very First Time (1:07:04)

24th-century Technology (1:19:24)

Final Thoughts (1:28:13)

Mission Log Podcast's Plans for TNG (1:31:35)

Closing (1:37:46)

TNG Films Face-off.

When the the Original Series cast set foot on the big screen, it was a dream come true for a generation of fans who had supported the short-lived show through the dark 1970s. For fans of The Next Generation, however, the experience was quite different. As soon as the final episode wrapped, the cast jumped right into shooting their first movie. The result was a film that felt more like the next TV episode than a major motion picture. Or did it?

In this episode of The Ready Room we're joined by Phillip Gilfus and Daniel Proulx of Earl Grey to pit the four Next Generation films against one another. We cover the good and the bad of each and discuss whether more time between the television series and the movies would have changed fan perception of these four stories.

In our news segment we discuss the controversy surrounding the sixth-season TNG episode "Timescape" and an uncorrected VFX mistake, Dayton Ward's selection of ten Star Trek episodes that could work as stage plays, and the launch of Star Trek: Axanar's official podcast, which will chronicle the production of the independent film through discussions with the cast and crew.

News

Mike and Denise Okuda speak out on the "Timescape" VFX controversy (3:02)

Star Trek: Axanar teams of with Trek.fm for its official podcast (9:23)

Dayton Ward's Star Trek episodes that could work as stage plays (14:06)

Sponsor: Audible (22:38)

Feature: TNG Films Face-off

Overview (26:01)

Generations (28:43)

First Contact (50:51)

Insurrection (1:06:04)

Nemesis (1:25:42)

Final Thoughts (1:46:42)

Closing (1:58:26)

A Taste of Armageddon.

According to Elaine Benes, Tolstoy once said “War, what is it good for?” And while she may have been wrong about the source, apparently Kirk shared the sentiment. When the Enterprise was dispatched to establish diplomatic relations with a planet that apparently wanted no part of the Federation, Kirk and his crew found themselves casualties of a war fought through computers. The damage-free conflict—if you don’t count the deaths from willing disintegration—didn’t sit right with Kirk, and so he took the future of two worlds into his own hands by forcing them into choosing between full conflict or reconciliation. The outcome remains unknown.

In this episode of The Ready Room we're joined by Charlynn Schmiedt, Drew Stewart, and Eric Brasure to discuss "A Taste of Armageddon," the antisceptic nature of the war between Eminiar VII and Vendikar, whether civilization is worth saving if the people no longer see the value of life, and debate if Kirk has the right to make the decision for an alien society. We also discuss Vulcan wall-telepathy, the new Eminiar line at Uniqlo, and uncover the real origins of General Order 24.

In our news segment, we discuss Robert Picardo's newly available house, TMZ accosting Brannon Braga to get the answer to a question the rest of us left behind in 1991, and take a behind the scenes look at Star Trek Continues with the help of Condé Nast Entertainment and WIRED.

News

Robert Picardo teams up with Coldwell Banker (3:50)

TMZ accosts Brannon Braga to ask age-old question (5:57)

Behind-the-scenes of Star Trek Continues (11:32)

Reviews Promotion (22:11)

Sponsor: TrekFan (23:03)

Sponsor: Audible (24:58)

Feature: A Taste of Armageddon

Intro and Synopsis (27:46)

First Impressions of Eminiar VII (31:39)

Protecting Civilization? (36:34)

The Antiseptic Nature of War (43:14)

The Naivety of Diplomacy (54:21)

The Real Origin of General Order 24 (1:04:32)

Father Kirk Knows Best (1:07:39)

Uniqlo and Telepathy (1:16:20)

Final Thoughts (1:20:25)

Closing (1:29:44)

The Communicator.

At the end of “A Piece of the Action,” Doctor McCoy reveals that he left his communicator behind in Oxmyx’s office. It’s essentially laughed off and the NCC-1701 continues on to its encounter with a giant space amoeba. Kirk says that, with that kind of technology, the Iotians might one day want a piece of the Federation’s action. But what might be the actual repercussions of such an accident? This is the question that Enterprise tries to answer in the second-season episode “The Communicator.” Like McCoy, Reed returns to the ship minus his gadget—only this time it isn’t brushed aside.

In this episode of The Ready Room we're joined by Mathieu Blondin and Sebastian Prooth to discuss Reed's little mistake, the consequences for him and Archer, the potential impact it had on an alien society, and whether or not Starfleet should be going undercover to mingle amongst the inhabitants of other worlds in the 22nd century (or at all). We also discuss "The Communicator" as an important episode on the road to the Prime Directive.

In our news segment we learn about the March 2015 release of TNG Season 8—in book form, discuss what we want to see in the next Star Trek film compared to a recent article on io9, and in Questions from the Fleet we delve into how best to grow the Star Trek franchise by looking at how marketing and merchandising has been handled over the years.

News

TNG Season 8 book coming in 2015 (2:55)

Star Trek 3 Wish List (11:19)

Sponsor: TrekFan (29:48) 

Questions from the Fleet: Marketing Star Trek (31:55)

Win Star Trek Blu-rays, Books, Ships, and more (41:33)

Sponsor: Audible (43:01)

Feature: The Communicator

Impressions of the Premise (48:28)

Rivas Jakara, Beta Edition (50:47)

Honey, I Cloaked My Hand (1:01:51)

Press-on Prosthetics (1:05:26)

Seeding the Prime Directive (1:07:00)

Taking Responsibility (1:18:20)

The Aftermath (1:22:56)

Final Thoughts (1:28:14)

Closing (1:34:00)

Death Wish.

When Voyager premiered, it seemed a given that the fan-favorite Q would turn up on the series. But the producers were cautious in using John de Lancie’s character yet again. As loved as Q was, he always ran the risk of being a one-verse song played over and over—a danger highlighted by his single appearance on Deep Space Nine. The door to Q’s return was finally opened by an unexpected hand, that of Michael Piller’s son, Shawn. Having overheard his dad pondering the problem, he began pitching the idea that became “Death Wish.” And from this idea grew one of the most poignant Q episodes in all of Star Trek.

In this episode of The Ready Room we're joined by Charlynn Schmiedt, Suzanne Abbott, and Scott Hertzog of The SciFi Diner to discuss how Q's character grew through this story that tackles some very difficult and divisive issues, including assisted suicide, treatment of prisoners, and the rights of individuals versus the good of society.

In our news segment we take a look at Cross Cult's new covers for Kirsten Beyer's Full Circle and Unworthy, discuss how Data may have gotten his Federation citizenship (as described by "The Measure of a Man" writer Melinda Snodgrass), and ponder a proposed perfect RetKHAN to Star Trek Into Darkness.

Rapture.

When we visited Deep Space 9 for the very first time, Picard made it clear to Sisko that his mission was to do everything, short of violating the Prime Directive, to prepare Bajor for admission into the Federation. It took five seasons, but finally Bajor's petition was approved and the ceremony was set to take place—at least until the Emissary began having visions. After becoming obsessed with ancient Bajoran symbols, Captain Sisko found the lengendary city of B'hala, lost for 20 millennia, in a matter of days. Along the way he saw past, present, and future as one, drew the ire of Starfleet, and stopped Bajor from signing on the dotted line.

In this episode of The Ready Room we're joined by John Mills, Alice Baker, and Daniel Handlin to discuss the fifth-season episode "Rapture," Sisko's gradual acceptance of his role in the Bajoran religion, Starfleet's discomfort with having a captain walk amongst an alien society as a god, get a rare glimpse into a not (fully) evil Kai Winn, and ponder why admirals can't act.

In our news segment we take a look a NASA's warp ship design concept, the IXS Enterprise, visit the Mirror Universe with Star Trek Continues, and explore the Enterprise-D 8 bits at a time.

I, Borg.

When you think about how long-lived Star Trek is, it’s incredible to think that the storytelling moment that has been nearly impossible to top came 24 years ago. “The Best of Both Worlds” was so big, so bold, so impactful that the writers shied away from returning to the story's villain, the Borg, because, well, where do you go from there? Two seasons later they finally hit on an approach that could bring back the Borg in a unique way that did not require trying to top the famous cliffhanger.

In this episode of The Ready Room we're joined by Charlynn Schmiedt, Daniel Proulx, and Tyler Johnson to discuss the story that was born during a writers' retreat in 1991. The concept became “I, Borg,” and for such a quiet story it had lasting repercussions on the future of Star Trek. We discuss the dilemma faced by the Enterprise crew, whether or not the story defangs the Borg, Beverly's seeming naivity, Geordi's way with machines, whether or not it and "The Best of Both Worlds" violate canon, and how First Contact Picard can be seen in this episode.

In our new segment we find out what kind of parade Shatner will be leading in Canada, how he and Kate Mulgrew love to jab each other at conventions, and what happens on a starship bridge when you stabilize it.

The Doomsday Machine.

If you ask fans of The Original Series to name their favorite episodes, invariably “The Doomsday Machine” comes up. Even James Doohan named the episode his favorite of the series. In 1968, “The Doomsday Machine” received a Hugo Award nomination for Best Dramatic Presentation; but not all are in love with the story. D.C. Fontana named the episode her least favorite of the series, and the story's author, Norman Spinrad, has expressed disappointment with its translation to screen. Neverthless, "The Doomsday Machine" remains one of the essential hours of TOS.

In this episode of The Ready Room we're joined by Daniel Handlin, Drew Stewart, and Suzanne Abbott to find out where we stand on this story of a captain (well… a commodore) destroyed by the loss of his crew, the Moby-Dick allegory, the social message that H-Bombs are bad, the origins of the planet killer itself, and our thoughts on the remastered version of the episode.

In our news segment we learn about Five Year Mission's Las Vegas adventure, get technical with some advancements in the field of tractor beams and their possible applications, and look back at Star Trek III: The Search for Spock on the film's 30th anniversary.

Vox Sola.

Star Trek has presented us with more aliens that we can count. But most of these have been humanoid. Even the exceptions—Tholians, Excalbians, even Species 8472—are still easy for us to imagine being real… somewhere out there. In the first-season Enterprise episode “Vox Sola,” the writers and creative team attempted to give us, as Brannon Braga put it, “a wildly alien alien.” The title of this episode is Latin for “lone voice,” and is one of just seven episodes with Latin names—and possibly the best.

In this episode of The Ready Room we're joined by Phillip Gilfus, Tommy Kraft, and Suzanne Abbott to discuss just how unique this story is within Star Trek, how difficult it is to present truly alien life, the production challenges of turning plastic wrap into a villain, as well as the technology sneak peeks and ethically building blocks of this early mission of the NX-01.

In our news segment we reflect on the 20th anniversary of the TNG finale, "All Good Things…", some unique ships coming to The Official Starships Collection—including the 22nd-century Romulan Bird-of-Prey and the Krenim timeship from Voyager's "Year of Hell," and the big plans that are afoot over at Star Trek: Phase II.

The Romulan War.

One of the most momentous conflicts in Federation history is also one of the most mysterious ones—at least for fandom. Of course Starfleet itself knows what happened, but the writers didn't give us a lot to work with over the years. First introduced in the Original Series episode "Balance of Terror," the Earth-Romulan War is the basis for centuries of animosity between these two powers. The details remained elusive and over the years bits and pieces came out through the various spinoff series, books, comics, and fan projects.

In this episode of The Ready Room we're joined by Larry Nemecek, Alec Peters, and Tommy Kraft to discuss this legendary war, its origins, the conflict, the aftermath, and how it has been retconned over time.

In our news segment we learn about Star Trek: The Exhibition's arrival at Mall of America, the fan art that became an actual book series in Star Trek Seekers, how you can share some Romulan Ale with Larry, Roberto Orci's bid to direct the next film, and Teras Cassidy pops in for a Geek Nation Tours update. 

Coda.

Jeri Taylor wrote the book on Janeway. Literally. Two of them in fact! So it was no surprise that a third-season story about Janeway's death came from her pen. "Coda" pulls together a number of familiar Star Trek themes to explore issues of death, how it affects both the survivors and the deceased, and even throws in a Dying Swan for good measure. In this episode of The Ready Room we're joined by Charlynn Schmiedt, Tristan Riddell, and Suzanne Abbott to discuss Janeway's brush with death, Chakotay's outpouring of emotion, what Jeri Taylor brings to Janeway that other writers can't, and whether or not this mishmash of ideas comes together to create a satisfying whole.

In our news segments we find out where the next Destination Star Trek with land, take a peek at Patrick Stewart's new TV series, learn about the latest honor for William Shatner—this time from NASA—and find out what decision almost made in 1966 could have changed the course of Star Trek.  

The Sound of Her Voice.

War changes people. And that’s no different whether you're in the 21st century or the 24th. Just before DS9 kicked into high gear for its final season, our crew took a quiet moment to reflect in “The Sound of Her Voice,” the penultimate episode of Season Six. It's a unique take on a bottle show that reveals a great deal about the station's crew. In this episode of The Ready Room we're joined by Matthew Rushing, Michael Fisher, and Von Glitshka to discuss the hours spent by the Defiant crew talking to Captain Lisa Cusack, what the conversations tell us about how life changes and the struggle to move on, and the twist of time that allows our heroes to step back—at least for a moment— to a place where the Dominion War had yet to shatter the peace.

In our news segment we look at the pros and cons of Roberto Orci's bid to direct Star Trek 2016, head into fluidic space or Star Trek Online's ninth season, wrap up Enterprise's Blu-ray release, and find out about the independent film Star Trek: Horizon, which is set in the Enterprise time period and tells the story of the Romulan War.

Starship Mine.

Life and death situations and small talk go together like Picard and Earl Grey, Troi and chocolate, or Geordi and PowerPoint presentations. Right? Well, they do in “Starship Mine,” a sixth season TNG episode that features a never-before-heard-of particle, a horse saddle, and possibly the most annoying commander in Starfleet. But "Starship Mine" is much more than a bad party with The Hutch. It's also Die Hard in Space.

In this episode of The Ready Room we're joined by Darren Moser, Mike Schindler, and Max Hegel to discuss Morgan Gendel's second TNG outing, how it uses the Die Hard framework without imitating it, the difference between trilithium and trilithium resin (hint: there may not be any), and why it may be a better episode than Gendel's more famous episode "The Inner Light."

In our news segment, we read a letter from one Captain James T. Kirk to a Captain James Kirk in the US Navy, find out what award the Boston chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences has for Leonard Nimoy, Oculus Rift's virtual trip to the USS Voyager bridge, and colliding timelines that combine Q and Guinan with the Abramsverse.

Spectre of the Gun.

The date is October 26, 1881. The place is Tombstone, Arizona. It’s the day of the gunfight at the O.K. Corral. So what are Kirk and his crew doing here? Well, Chekov is here to hit on the ladies. That much is clear. But what about the others? It wasn't unusual for the Enterprise crew to visit locales that looked a lot like Earth. Usually the buildings in those places had four walls. But when budgets are thin you spread around the limited walls you have, and if you're creative you find a way to make it work in your favor. Such was the case in "Spectre of the Gun," a Western set in space at a time when Earth-bound Westerns were standard programming.

In this episode of The Ready Room we're joined by Daniel Proulx, Drew Stewart, and Mariel Keeran to discuss TOS's trip to the wild, wild West, whether it's a remarkable exploration of the workings of the mind, or just an average chapter in a series trying to tell stories with limited resources. We also explore whether this was a prelude to holodeck malfunctions, why Chekov can't keep his hands to himself, and find out why sublimated snake venom might be better than scotch.  In our news segment we check out the new home at the Smithsonian for the original the Enterprise shooting model, spot starships landing in Japan, dicuss the upcoming changes to StarTrek.com—which include closing down the discussion boards—and learn more about Star Trek Timelines, a new strategy game heading for your mobile device.

Broken Bow.

In 2001, Star Trek landed with great fanfare in a cornfield in Oklahoma. It was the launch of Enterprise, as the series was known for its first two seasons, and the pilot episode, "Broken Bow," was well received. Over the years, perceptions of the series have changed more than once. The story of "Broken Bow" and Enterprise is one of creative change, great promises mixed with missed opportunities, and a tug-o-war between studio and network.

In this episode of The Ready Room we're joined by Matt Miller, Jose Munoz, and Oklahoma native Larry Nemecek to discuss story elements of "Broken Bow" and go behind the scenes to learn about the activities surrounding the pilot episode and the creation of the series.

In our news segment we take a look at the full details of the TNG Season Six and "Chain of Command" Blu-ray extras, new faces added to Star Trek Las Vegas, some advice from Wil Wheaton to a young Star Trek fan being bullied in school, and some exciting news about Trek.fm and iTunes.

Scientific Method.

Aliens performing experiments on the crew without their knowledge is nothing new for Star Trek. The Next Generation did it to very creepy effect in “Schisms.” Enterprise also did it—in a somewhat different way—in “Observer Effect.” But Voyager delivered perhaps the most entertaining lab rats-in-space story in the Season Four episode “Scientific Method.”

In this episode of The Ready Room we're joined by Charlynn Schmiedt, Phillip Gilfus, and Daniel Proulx to talk about Tom and B’Elanna getting busy in engineering, Seven and the Doctor wearing tights, a potential Chakotay-Neelix spinoff, Janeway channeling Sisko, and, for some reason, Muppet fanfic.

In our news segment we take a look at a theatrical run for Shatner's World, Leonard Nimoy and the Boston Pops, QMx's salvaging of the Voyager commbadge, and StarTrek.com's interview with Susan Gibney—the Almost-Janeway.

Civil Defense.

On a Federation starship, you pretty much know what to expect from your surroundings. But what happens when you move into a Cardassian-built ore processing facility? One of the fascinating aspects of Deep Space Nine was the idea that our characters were living in borrowed space. They could never be sure what they might find in the bowels of the Station—or the computer. They found themselves in a dire situation in "Civil Defense" when a dormant computer file triggered a counter-insurgency program installed by the Cardassians during the Occupation. Suddenly their lives were at risk—and the clock was ticking.

In this episode of The Ready Room we're joined by Michael Fisher and John Mills to discuss "Civil Defense," which was born of the desire to slip a straight action story into the middle of DS9's drama. We discuss the mysteries of the Station, the production challenges of the episode, character developments for Dukat and Garak, and debate whether there was any way out of an unsatisfying ending.

In our news segment we check in on two interviews with new Star Trek film writer J.D. Payne, CommBadge's second run at funding, Star Trek Online's arrival on Mac, and an STO Mirror Universe event. Plus, we learn about the starship accessibility requirements of Targ Starfleet officers.

Emergence.

One of the stated missions of the Enterprise is to seek out new forms of life, and over the course of seven years Picard and his crew encountered a number of unusual ones. From the exocomps to the Crystalline Entity to Gomtuu, TNG showed us that life comes in many flavors. But perhaps the most unexpected discovery came near the very end of the series when the Enterprise itself began to come alive.

In this episode of The Ready Room we're joined by the Earl Grey crew of Darren Moser, Phillip Gilfus, and Daniel Proulx to discuss the antepenultimate episode of The Next Generation, "Emergence," Troi's gig as a ship counselor (literally!), what Brannon Braga described as an attempt to create the ultimate holodeck story, the tag-team PowerPoint prowess of Data and Geordi, and Beverly's secret fascination with the Orient Express.

In our news segment we discuss the trailers for TNG Season Six and "Chain of Command" on Blu-ray, the collaboration between IDW and Harlan Ellison to bring the original script for "The City On the Edge of Forever" to comics, and we remember TNG's Lt. Commander Daren, Australian actress Wendy Hughes.

Star Trek Continues.

As any Star Trek fans knows, the original mission of the Enterprise 1701 was to span five years. Unfortunately, the television executives of the 1960s had other plans as Kirk and his crew sailed off into the darkness after just three seasons. But that doesn't mean the mission didn't continue. What happened after "Turnabout Intruder"? The independent series Star Trek Continues picks up where TOS left off, continuing the five-year mission by telling the stories we didn't see.

In this episode of The Ready Room we're joined by some of the cast and crew of Star Trek Continues to talk about the creation of the series, the first two episodes—"Pilgrim of Eternity" and "Lolani"—and what their plans are for the future. Director Chris White and assistant director Chuck Huber fill us in on the production side while Larry Nemecek (Dr. McCoy) and Todd Haberkorn (Spock) talk about bringing iconic characters to the screen once again. Plus, a surprising number of characters from a galaxy far, far away drop by for a visit.

In our news segment we remember prolific Star Trek director Cliff Bole, find out how Robert Beltran is warming up to Star Trek fans on Twitter and Reddit, run down the Saturn Award nominations for Star Trek Into Darkness, and find out what Larry Nemecek has planned for his invasion of Jacksonville, Florida.

Inside The Apple with Marc Cushman.

Computers controlling humanoid populations is a common theme in The Original Series, as is the association between these situations and the worship of God here on Earth. In “The Apple,” the two were brought together in a most obvious way as Kirk and his landing party find themselves in the Garden of Eden. To drive the point home, Kirk is even cast in the role of Satan. In this episode of The Ready Room we're joined by Drew Stewart, Mike Schindler, and Marc Cushman, author of These Are the Voyages, for an inside look at this very dangerous trip to paradise. What was the public reaction in the 1960s to a story with such blatant Biblical parallels? How did Gene L. Coon, D.C. Fontana, and the rest of the TOS staff feel about the story? And how does "The Apple" fit into the overall narrative of TOS's second season?

In our news segment we take a look at a new Paramount theme park coming to Spain that will feature Star Trek in its "Plaza Futura," Oregon-based Trek Theatre performing "The Measure of a Man," and io9's list of the ten times Kirk actually faced the no-win scenario—sort of.

Damage.

Things began to look desperate for Archer and the NX-01 crew near the end of their mission in the Expanse. “Damage” begins with the Enterprise in the middle of battle, nearly destroyed, and Archer still missing. With the fate of Earth (and the future Federation) hanging in the balance, the likelihood that the crew will succeed is dropping rapidly. At the same time, the pressures of the mission are taking their toll on the crew. Phlox has become a battlefield doctor, T'Pol has succumbed to drug addiction, and Archer must make a move than goes against all his beliefs.

In this episode of The Ready Room we're joined by Matthew Rushing and Colin Higgins to discuss "Damage," the ethically dilemma facing Archer, T'Pol's increasing struggle with emotions, the role of the Sphere Builders, and how the cracks forming in the Xindi Council change the nature of the Enterprise's mission.  

In our news segment we look in on Destination Star Trek Germany, the premiere of Gates McFadden's new stage play The Ugly One, lost audio commentaries for "Judgment," "North Star," and Star Trek: The Motion Picture recovered by TrekCore, a new release date for the Enterprise Season Four Blu-rays, and in Questions from the Fleet we delve into the lore of 47.

Message In a Bottle.

Ever since the Doctor got his hands on a 29th-century mobile holo-emitter, he had been itching for more away-mission action. And he finally got his chance to get far away from the ship—really far away—in the fourth-season episode “Message In a Bottle.” Thanks to Seven’s discovery of an abandoned alien relay network, the crew found a possible link to a Starfleet ship in the Alpha Quadrant; but only the Doctor could made the trip. Waiting for him on the other side of that network was Matthew from NewsRadio. Sounds like the perfect set up for an episode of Star Trek, right? In this episode of The Ready Room we're joined by Charlynn Schmiedt and Daniel Proulx to discuss this humorous Voyager outing, how it served the Doctor's character development, the technological eye candy it gave us, and how it served as a set-up for a number of far more serious storylines down the road.

In news we look at Scott Bakula's new starring role in the NCIS spinoff set in New Orleans, find out why Spock is riding a unicorn, try to figure out just what Commander Riker is selling in a bizarre YouTube video, check in on Star Trek Continues' second episode premiere, hear what Ronald D. Moore says about Trek returning to television, and take a look at the Star Trek (2009) Masterworks Edition Blu-ray that is coming to Europe.

The Wire.

One of the most fascinating characters in Star Trek is the Cardassian tailor Garak. From the moment he was introduced in the second episode of DS9, “Past Prologue,” it was clear this was going to be a special character. There are many great episodes featuring him, but one the most telling is “The Wire,” a second-season episode focusing on his near death from a malfunctioning brain implant. Ironically, many fans disliked this episode when it first aired because they said they learned nothing new about Garak. In this episode of The Ready Room we're joined by John Mills and Ben McCormick to discuss "The Wire," the interplay between Garak and Bashir, the messages about drug addiction, recovery, spying (it's not just for the Obsidian Order!), and what insights Garak's ever-changing stories offer into who he really is.

In news we find out about a deal to keep Star Trek on Amazon Prime, the 1st Annual L.A. Sci-Fest and its Star Trek connections, the fourth birthday of Star Trek Online, and Chris Pine's hopes for a darker Kirk in the next Star Trek film. Plus, we remember long-time Star Trek props master Joe Longo.

Remember Me.

Beverly Crusher was an underused character on The Next Generation. So much so that the few episodes in which she did play a leading role go largely forgotten—or are remembered for some other aspect or character’s part. Such is the case with the fourth-season episode “Remember Me,” a story that mixes science, philosophy, and perhaps a little romance, then swirls it around in a magic vortex created by Wesley Crusher. In this episode of The Ready Room we’re joined by Phillip Gilfus, Charlynn Schmiedt, and Tyler Johnson to discuss “Remember Me,” how it serves as part two of The Traveler Trilogy, how it feels more like a stage play than a television show, and how the behavior of the crew in Beverly’s alternate reality reflect her views of those around her—especially Picard.

In news we discuss Star Trek Into Darkness’s Oscar nomination for visual effects, the addition of the Next Generation cast to Star Trek Las Vegas 2014, a secretly filmed fan-made documentary from 1988, the next feature-length TNG Blu-ray release (hint: there are FOUR lights!), and at last the full details on the Enterprise Season 4 Blu-ray extras. Plus, we remember Filmation founder and Star Trek: The Animated Series director Hal Sutherland.

Inside Amok Time with Marc Cushman.

One of the most famous afflictions in Star Trek is the pon farr—also known as the Vulcan Seven Year Itch. And one of the most famous episodes of TOS is the one that introduced us to the pon farr, “Amok Time.” We’ve discussed this episode on The Ready Room before in our show titled “All Roads Lead to Stonn.” But In this episode of The Ready Room we take an inside look at “Amok Time” with Marc Cushman, author of These Are the Voyages: TOS—The Definitive Guide to Gene Roddenberry's Original Television Masterpiece.

In news we discuss Scott Chambliss’s nomination for the Art Directors Guild Excellence In Production Design Award for his work on Star Trek Into Darkness, choose the best guest star from a Star Trek film, and find out why one North Carolina mayor is so upset over the resignation of a council member. We also remember three members of the Star Trek family who we lost since our last show, actors Joseph Ruskin and James Avery, and producer Marty Hornstein.