235: "The Alternative Factor" (TOS) with Jason Snell

David J Loehr, writer and podcaster, joins Scott to discuss “Things Past” (DS9 S5E8). Topics include the lack of Neelix, Odo’s tortured soul, and the creepy uncanny vibe that allows for effective, and cheap, Star Trek episodes. Next on Random Trek: “Genesis” (TNG S7E19) with James Thomson. Scott McNulty with David J. Loehr.

John Siracusa, developer, writer, and podcaster, joins Scott to discuss “Daedalus” (ENT S4E10). Topics include being a professional podcaster, the emotions of Vulcans, and Captain Archer’s judgment (or lack thereof). Next on Random Trek: “Things Past” (DS9 S5E8) with David J Loehr. Scott McNulty with John Siracusa.

Grant Jun Otsuki, a cultural anthropologist, joins Scott to discuss "The Siege of AR-558" (DS9 S7E8). We attempt to have a lighthearted conversation about a very heavy episode of Deep Space Nine. Topics include which Captain you'd want to work for, how great Avery Brooks' performance is in this episode, and why the heck was Quark allowed to hang around in this situation. Be sure to read Grant's fantastic McSweeney's piece "Due to Falling Enrollments, We Will No Longer Offer Courses In Romulan At Starfleet Academy." Next Episode: "Daedalus" (ENT S4E10) with John Siracusa. Scott McNulty with Grant Jun Otsuki.

Jason Snell, Random Trek’s most frequent guest, joins Scott to discuss “Day of the Dove” (TOS S3E11). Topics include our favorite Klingons, whatever the deal is with these energy aliens, and the “hidden” message of this episode. Watch “Day of the Dove” for yourself: Amazon Instant Video Paramount+ Blu-Rays Scott McNulty with Jason Snell.

Claire L. Evans, writer and musician, joins Scott to discuss “Wrongs Darker Than Death or Night” (DS9 S6E17). Topics include how great Dax is, war crimes, and the ease of time travel when you’re a Bajoran. Just a warning -given the content of this episode, we talk about some mature topics. On a lighter note, read Claire’s history of the corporate presentation. Watch Wrongs Darker Than Death or Night for yourself: Amazon Instant Video Paramount Plus DVDs Scott McNulty with Claire L. Evans.

Erika Ensign, podcaster and trivia enthusiast, joins Scott to discuss “The Voyager Conspiracy” (S6E9). Topics include conspiracy theories, the many possible loves of Capt. Janeway, and the complete lack of Reginald Barclay in this episode. Watch “The Voyager Conspiracy” for yourself: Amazon Instant Video Paramount Plus DVDs Scott McNulty with Erika Ensign.

Jean MacDonald, Micro.blog community manager and podcaster, joins Scott to discuss “Our Man Bashir” (DS9 S4E10). Topics include Jean’s conversion to a DS9 fan, whether or not Bashir is the Tom Paris of DS9, and just how much fun all the actors seem to be having in this episode. Watch Our Man Bashir for yourself: Amazon Instant Video Paramount Plus DVDs Scott McNulty with Jean MacDonald.

Antony Johnston, writer, podcaster, and snappy dresser, joins Scott to discuss “A Matter of Perspective)” (TNG S3/E14). Topics include Law and Order, who volunteers to be a nude model on the Enterprise, and how clever (or not) the mystery in this episode is. Get yourself a copy of Antony’s The Dog Sitter Detective, you won’t regret it! Watch “A Matter of Perspective” for yourself: Amazon Instant Video Paramount Plus Blu-Ray Scott McNulty with Antony Johnston.

Dan Moren, writer and podcaster, joins Scott to discuss "The Savage Curtain" (TOS S3E22). Topics include Dan's Gene Roddenberry impersonation, Kirk's quick acceptance of space Lincoln, and the perplexing moral of this episode (is there one?!). Want more details about TOS Season 3? Check out Marc Cushman's "These Are the Voyages - TOS: Season Three" and find out more than you ever wanted to know. Watch "The Savage Curtain" for yourself: Amazon Instant Video Paramount+ Blu-ray Scott McNulty with Dan Moren.

Shelly Brisbin, host of Lions, Towers & Shields and Parallel and author of iOS Access for All, joins Scott to discuss “In the Hands of the Prophets” (DS9 S1E20). Topics include TCM movies, faith vs. science, and the wonder that is Louise Fletcher. Watch In the Hands of the Prophets for yourself: Amazon Instant Video Paramount Plus DVDs Scott McNulty with Shelly Brisbin.