Trek Geeks: A Star Trek Podcast

This week on Trek Geeks, we're bringing you the best moments from a recent Thursday Night Geeks where things got bold, loud, and unapologetically opinionated. Bill and Dan took a stand on "The Trek Hill I'm Willing to Die On," sharing the Star Trek hot takes they'll defend to the very end. No fence-sitting. No safe answers. Just pure, unfiltered fandom. From controversial episodes and underrated characters to creative decisions that still spark debate, nothing across the Trek universe was off limits. Along the way, there's plenty of laughter, some spirited back-and-forth, and a few moments that might have you shouting at your podcast app. And of course, the community weighed in too, proving once again that every fan has their hill. The real question is: what's yours? So settle in and get ready...because this is one climb you won't want to miss.

GOLDEN GLOBE WINNER & TWO-TIME OSCAR NOMINEE! In this special episode of Trek Geeks, we present our Trek Talks panel featuring acclaimed actor and Star Trek fan Paul Giamatti. Known for his incredible range across film and television, Paul joins us for a conversation that blends his love of storytelling, his appreciation for Star Trek, and his thoughts on what makes science fiction such a powerful lens for exploring the human condition. During the panel, Paul discusses his relationship with Star Trek, the impact the franchise has had on generations of fans, and why science fiction continues to resonate in a world that often feels like it's catching up to the stories we've been telling for decades. The conversation explores fandom, creativity, performance, and the unique optimism that sits at the heart of Star Trek. We also talk about the importance of storytelling in uncertain times, the responsibility artists sometimes feel when contributing to beloved franchises, and how Star Trek continues to inspire hope, curiosity, and empathy. It's a thoughtful, funny, and engaging discussion that Trek fans and film fans alike will truly enjoy. YOU CAN HELP THE HOLLYWOOD FOOD COALITION TODAY! Trek Talks is more than just conversations like this one. It's an annual telethon that brings together Star Trek actors, writers, and fans to raise money for a truly important cause while celebrating the community that Star Trek has built over nearly 60 years. If you'd like to support Trek Talks and the Hollywood Food Coalition, you can donate by visiting https://givebutter.com/trektalks5 or by texting TREK to 53-555. Every donation helps provide meals and support for people in need, and we're incredibly grateful for your support.

This week on Trek Geeks, Bill and Dan welcome a special guest and good friend of the show, Trek Talks co-producer Laurie Ulster from TrekMovie.com! With Trek Talks just around the corner, Laurie joins the show to preview this year's telethon, talk about what viewers can expect, and share some behind-the-scenes insight into how this incredible annual event comes together to support the Hollywood Food Coalition. In addition, Bill and Dan discuss the surprising and disappointing news that Star Trek: Starfleet Academy has reportedly been canceled by Paramount. What does this mean for the future of Star Trek on streaming? Is this part of a bigger shift for the franchise? The guys will share their thoughts on what we know so far and what it could mean for Trek fans moving forward. But it's not all serious news. There's also a new rumor floating around about a potential new Star Trek LEGO set that could be arriving later this year, and Bill and Dan will break down what we're hearing and what they hope to see if the rumor turns out to be true. It's news, rumors, Trek Talks, and plenty of laughs, so join us! TREK TALKS IS SATURDAY, MARCH 28! Visit https://trektalks.net to get all the information and to donate securely to the Hollywood Food Coalition!

In this special episode of Trek Geeks presented by FanSets, hosts Bill Smith and Dan Davidson celebrate the 60th Anniversary Year of Star Trek with a look back at the moments, series, and stories that shaped the franchise across six decades. Sixty years after the debut of Star Trek: The Original Series, Star Trek continues to inspire new generations of fans, creators, and dreamers. Bill and Dan explore the legacy of the franchise from the optimism of The Next Generation to the moral complexity of Deep Space Nine, the resilience of Voyager, and the bold spirit of Strange New Worlds. Along the way, they discuss the characters, episodes, and themes that still resonate today, and how Star Trek has continued to evolve while holding onto its hopeful vision of the future. The conversation also touches on what this milestone anniversary means for fandom today, from conventions and collectibles to the exciting new productions expanding the universe. Plus, the guys are joined by a surprise guest: Cirroc Lofton, beloved for his role as Jake Sisko on Star Trek: Deep Space Nine and recently seen reprising the character on Starfleet Academy. Cirroc drops in to share his thoughts on Star Trek's legacy, fandom, and what it means to return to the role of Jake all these years later. It's a celebration of sixty years of Star Trek filled with great conversation, plenty of laughs, and a reminder of why this franchise continues to boldly go where no one has gone before.

Visiting the Past and Discovering the Future We kick off our 2026 in a big way as we celebrate the 60th Anniversary Year of Star Trek with a show built for fans who love both the history and the future of the franchise. This premiere is all about connection. Connection to the real places where Star Trek was made and connection to where the universe is headed next. First up, we're joined by Larry "Dr. Trek" Nemecek and Teras Cassidy from Geek Nation Tours to talk about Exploring Trek shooting locations. From iconic West Coast filming sites to the unforgettable landscapes of Nevada's Valley of Fire, we'll dive into what makes these locations so special and why standing where Star Trek history was made hits differently in an anniversary year. If you've ever wanted to walk in the footsteps of your favorite crews, this conversation is for you. Then we shift gears to the future with a spoiler-light discussion of the premiere of Star Trek: Starfleet Academy. We'll share our impressions of the first two episodes, what immediately grabbed us, and where the series feels like it's boldly going. From tone to characters to themes, we'll break down what's working and what we're excited to see develop as the season unfolds. It's the perfect way to launch a new season of Trek Geeks: Thursday Night Geeks. Part celebration, part exploration, and part thoughtful fandom chat with friends. Whether you're planning your next Trek adventure or just settling in to watch the next chapter of Star Trek begin, this Season Two premiere sets the tone for what's ahead.

EMMY AND ACADEMY AWARD WINNER This week, we're beyond thrilled to welcome a true legend of Star Trek and Hollywood craftsmanship — the one and only Doug Drexler! From his early days in the makeup department on Star Trek: The Next Generation to his groundbreaking work in visual effects on Deep Space Nine, Enterprise, and Battlestar Galactica, Doug's creative fingerprint can be found across some of the most beloved moments in science fiction. He's an Academy Award and Emmy Award winner, a designer, an artist, and above all, a lifelong fan whose passion for Trek helped shape the look and feel of entire eras of the franchise. Doug joins us to talk about his incredible career and his newest adventure — the upcoming documentary Trek Star, now crowdfunding on Kickstarter. Directed by Jason Smith, Trek Star explores how a kid from the Bronx became one of Star Trek's most influential creative minds, chronicling a career that's as inspiring as it is entertaining. From the bridge of the Enterprise to the design labs of Hollywood, this is the story of a fan who truly made his dreams real. We'll dive into Doug's time in makeup on Dick Tracy, his collaboration with icons like Michael and Denise Okuda, his work designing for Star Trek: Enterprise and Picard, and his love for the fans who have supported him throughout his journey. Expect laughs, insight, and heartfelt reflection as we celebrate one of Star Trek's most passionate visionaries. This is an unforgettable conversation with the incomparable Doug Drexler — a man who embodies the creative spirit of Trek itself. This is one episode you won't want to miss. SUPPORT THE TREK STAR DOCUMENTARY NOW! Head on over to DrexlerFilm.com to find out more and support the Kickstarter campaign!

The galaxy is calling once again, and Thursday Night Geeks presented by FanSets is answering! This week, Bill and Dan take a deep dive into Season 3, Episode 4 of Strange New Worlds, “A Space Adventure Hour.” With a title like that, you know fans are in for a ride that blends exploration, danger, and the kind of heartfelt storytelling the series has become known for. This episode manages to balance character development with classic Trek-style wonder. Our hosts will unpack the way it captures the essence of what makes Strange New Worlds feel both nostalgic and fresh. Expect a thoughtful conversation about themes of teamwork, leadership, and the choices that define the crew as they continue their journey. As always, the guys will bring their trademark humor and passion to the discussion. They’ll connect the dots between what longtime fans love and what newer audiences might find exciting, all while keeping the conversation lively. If you’ve seen the episode, you’ll nod along; if you haven’t--what are you waiting for? So grab your favorite drink, settle into your command chair, and join Thursday Night Geeks presented by FanSets for another night of geeky fun. “A Space Adventure Hour” may only be one episode, but it’s sure to spark a galaxy’s worth of conversation. Plus, stay tuned after the end theme for an all-new outtake!

SPOILER ALERT This week, we’re bringing you the audio as we dig into Strange New Worlds Season 3, Episode 3: “Shuttle to Kenfori.” It’s an hour of Trek that leans hard into horror, complete with fast-moving zombies, eerie ruins, and Klingons with secrets of their own. We talk through the episode from start to finish, spoilers and all, including the tension-filled performances, character dynamics, and what this story might mean for the rest of the season. From Pike and M’Benga’s haunted mission to Ortegas’ growing unease, we’re breaking it all down. So if you missed the livestream or just want to experience it again in podcast form, sit back, grab your favorite mug of raktajino, and get ready to revisit one of the creepiest corners of the final frontier.

New Star Trek Action Figures from The Nacelle Company We're diving deep into the world of Star Trek collectibles with none other than Brian Volk-Weiss, CEO of The Nacelle Company! Fresh off the exciting announcement of their brand-new line of Star Trek action figures, Brian joins us to discuss what fans can expect from these highly anticipated releases. From the design process to character selection and the passion behind bringing these figures to life, this is an episode no Trek collector will want to miss! But that's not all--we'll also chat with Brian about his incredible career in entertainment and toy production. As the mastermind behind The Toys That Made Us and The Center Seat: 55 Years of Star Trek, he has a deep love for pop culture and storytelling that shines through in every project he touches. He'll share insights into his journey, the challenges of creating high-quality collectibles, and why Star Trek remains such an enduring phenomenon. Join us live for a fun and geeky conversation packed with behind-the-scenes stories, exclusive details on the new Star Trek figures, and maybe even a few surprises along the way! Whether you're a hardcore collector or just love geeking out over all things Trek, this is a Thursday Night Geeks episode you won't want to miss. Set your reminders, grab your favorite Trek memorabilia, and beam in for the conversation!

Things get gloriously weird as we dive into "Wedding Bell Blues," the second episode of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds Season 3. After a three-month time jump, the Enterprise is docked at Starbase One for the Federation's 100th anniversary, but Spock has something more personal on his mind: the return of Nurse Chapel. Unfortunately for him, she's not alone. Enter Chapel's date, Dr. Roger Korby, her old mentor, and the unfortunate spark for Spock's emotional tailspin. What begins as an awkward love triangle quickly warps into a full-blown rom-com fever dream. Spock wakes up engaged to Chapel, the crew is prepping for a wedding instead of a centennial celebration, and reality itself seems to be playing fast and loose with the facts. While some members of the crew are blissfully swept up in the festivities, others start to sense something is very, very off--especially a confused and suspicious Dr. Korby. We'll dig into the emotional core of the episode, including Ethan Peck's fantastic performance as a Vulcan barely holding himself together, and how Strange New Worlds continues to blend genres without losing its heart. Director Jordon Canning, who brought us last season's rom-com "Charades," once again balances comedy, sci-fi, and surprising depth in a story that explores how emotions shape our reality.

After almost two full years, Strange New Worlds is finally back and we're jumping straight into the action with the highly anticipated Season 3 premiere, “Hegemony, Part 2.” This week, we're breaking it all down in real time, just hours after the episode drops. Pike and the Enterprise crew are back and there's no easing back into this one. We'll be digging into all the fallout from last season's cliffhanger, exploring how the show handled the return to the Gorn conflict and whether the emotional stakes lived up to the build-up. Did Pike make the right call? Was the rescue worth the cost? And what does this episode signal for the rest of the season? We’ve definitely got thoughts. Of course, it wouldn't be Trek Geeks without some hot takes, speculation, and your live comments fueling the chaos. This is a *spoiler-filled* discussion, so if you haven’t seen the episode yet, maybe warp out and come back after. But if you have watched, grab a drink, fire up the viewscreen, and join us as we kick off another season of SNW with the passion only Trek Geeks can deliver.

AUDIO FROM THURSDAY NIGHT GEEKS Bill and Dan are boldly going where few fans dare to tread: straight into the heart of Star Trek controversy. Everyone has a hot take, but not all opinions are created equal—and tonight, they're putting theirs on display. From the final frontiers of franchise canon to the captains, crews, and creative choices that divide the fandom, no corner of the Trek universe is safe. Expect a lively and honest conversation that challenges long-held beliefs and re-examines the things we all thought were settled. The guys are pulling no punches as they each share five of their most unpopular Star Trek opinions—and believe us, some of them might raise a Vulcan eyebrow or two. Whether it's about storylines, characters, or what should (or shouldn't) count as "real Trek," these takes are bound to get people talking. Of course, it's all in good fun. Thursday Night Geeks is a celebration of everything Star Trek—disagreements and all. So pour a raktajino, strap in, and get ready to yell at your screen (or maybe nod in silent agreement). You might not agree with everything said... but you'll definitely have an opinion about it. Be sure to hang around after the end theme for a brand-new outake from Bill and Dan recorded after this episode livestreamed! ======================================= Music for Trek Geeks is provided by the world's greatest Star Trek band, FIVE YEAR MISSION! They're recording one song for each episode of the original Star Trek. Get all their albums at fiveyearmission.net!

Audio from Thursday Night Geeks We're charting a course straight into the explosive Season 2 finale of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds — "Hegemony." With tensions high and the Gorn deadlier than ever, the crew of the Enterprise faces a nightmare scenario that pushes Starfleet ideals to the breaking point. We'll examine how the series handles high-stakes conflict, moral dilemmas, and the weight of command in this harrowing final chapter of the season. We'll dive deep into Captain Pike's impossible choice and the toll it takes—not just on him, but on his relationships with his crew. From Spock's desperate search for Christine Chapel to La'an's cold tactical edge, every major character is tested under fire. We'll also take a closer look at the return of the Gorn as a modern Trek threat—what works, what terrifies, and what it all means for Starfleet going forward. And of course, we'll talk about that ending. The final moments of "Hegemony" leave us on the edge of our seats and wondering how the crew can possibly regroup. Has the Enterprise ever been this outmatched? Join us as we unpack the emotional weight, story structure, and cinematic style of the episode that's redefining what a Trek finale can be. Thanks for listening to this special episode of Trek Geeks, featuring the audio from our Thursday Night Geeks livestream! If you enjoyed the conversation, be sure to follow the podcast, leave a review, and share it with your fellow Trek fans. It really helps us grow the community. Want to be part of the fun as it happens? Join us live for Thursday Night Geeks every week on our YouTube channel at youtube.com/trekgeeks. Hit subscribe and turn on notifications so you never miss a stream. We'd love to have you in the chat, sharing your thoughts and Trek takes in real time. Until next time... Live Long and COCONUT!

Audio from Thursday Night Geeks We're thrilled to welcome actor, artist, and all-around creative force Bruce Horak to the livestream! Best known to Star Trek: Strange New Worlds fans as Hemmer, the gruff but endearing Aenar engineer of the U.S.S. Enterprise, Bruce brings a unique perspective as the first legally blind actor to play a recurring character in the *Star Trek* franchise. Join us as we talk about his time on the show, his experience stepping into the Trek universe, and how he helped redefine what representation in science fiction can look like. But Bruce's journey doesn't stop with Strange New Worlds. He's embarking on a deeply personal new mission: a documentary titled "Boldly Going", which chronicles his life as a visually impaired artist, performer, and now cultural trailblazer. We'll explore the inspiration behind this project, how fans can support it through his current Indiegogo campaign (https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/boldly-going-documentary#/), and why this story of resilience, creativity, and vision is so important in today's media landscape. Expect laughs, insights, and maybe even a few tears as Bruce shares how his love of storytelling—and Star Trek itself—has shaped his path. We'll also dig into his stage work, his incredible portrait paintings, and what it means to truly "go boldly" as an artist who defies expectations at every turn. And of course, it wouldn't be Thursday Night Geeks without some behind-the-scenes tidbits. Set phasers to "inspired" and don't miss this heartwarming, eye-opening episode with one of the most fascinating voices in modern Trek. Thanks for listening to this special episode of Trek Geeks, featuring the audio from our Thursday Night Geeks livestream! If you enjoyed the conversation, be sure to follow the podcast, leave a review, and share it with your fellow Trek fans. It really helps us grow the community. Want to be part of the fun as it happens? Join us live for Thursday Night Geeks every week on our YouTube channel at youtube.com/trekgeeks. Hit subscribe and turn on notifications so you never miss a stream. We'd love to have you in the chat, sharing your thoughts and Trek takes in real time. Until next time... Live Long and COCONUT!

After a FOUR YEAR absence, a legendary fan-favorite RETURNS to The Flagship! It's time for another thrilling edition of See It or Skip It, and this time, we're heading back to the golden age of Star Trek with Season 2 of The Original Series! Join Bill and Dan as they revisit the highs and lows of this legendary season, from iconic episodes like Amok Time and The Trouble with Tribbles to some… less memorable outings. Every episode gets a verdict: should it be essential viewing for fans, or is it one you can safely pass by? Joining us for this mission is our Guest Geek, author and podcaster Brian Donahue! As the host of The BIG Sci-Fi Podcast and Planet Zero: An Original Science Fiction Story, Brian brings a deep love of classic sci-fi and some strong opinions about TOS Season 2. Will he agree with Bill and Dan's assessments, or will there be some heated debates over what truly deserves a "See It" rating? Get ready for fun, laughs, and maybe even a few surprises as we break it all down! Whether you're a longtime Trekkie or just discovering The Original Series, this episode is packed with nostalgia, insight, and plenty of friendly banter. So grab your Romulan ale, set phasers to "opinionated," and join us for a lively discussion on one of the most beloved seasons in Star Trek history. Will your favorites make the cut? There's only one way to find out--listen now!

Trek Against Pancreatic Cancer In this very special episode of Trek Geeks, we're proud to present the audio from a powerful livestream event originally aired on Thursday Night Geeks. Featuring an incredible lineup of guests: Jonathan Frakes, John Billingsley, Kitty Swink, Armin Shimerman, and Juan Carlos Coto--this heartfelt conversation centers around their support for the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN) and the upcoming PurpleStride event on April 26, 2025. You'll hear deeply personal stories from our guests, including Kitty Swink’s remarkable journey as a pancreatic cancer survivor and Armin Shimerman’s reflections on being by her side through the fight. John Billingsley and Jonathan Frakes speak passionately about their ongoing advocacy and the urgent need to fund research, while Juan Carlos Coto shares a moving tribute to his brother, the late Manny Coto, and his family's connection to this cause. Whether you missed the livestream or want to hear these inspiring voices again, this audio edition brings their messages directly to your ears. It’s a powerful blend of Trek family, personal resilience, and a unified call to action. There’s still time to make a difference. PurpleStride happens on April 26, and your support can help fund critical research, raise awareness, and offer hope to those impacted by this devastating disease. Visit TrekAgainstPancreaticCancer.com to donate, join a team, or learn more about how you can stride with a purpose.

This week on Trek Geeks, we’re bringing you a special episode featuring the audio from Thursday Night Geeks, presented by FanSets! Hosts Bill and Dan sit down with the incredible Nana Visitor—best known as Major Kira Nerys on Star Trek: Deep Space Nine—for an insightful conversation about her new book, Open a Channel: A Woman’s Trek. In this engaging discussion, Nana shares the inspiration behind her book, which highlights the stories of women who have shaped Star Trek, both on-screen and behind the scenes. She reflects on her own experiences, the groundbreaking women she interviewed, and the impact of female representation in the franchise. Join us as we celebrate Star Trek’s trailblazing women and the powerful voices that have paved the way for future generations. Whether you’re a longtime DS9 fan or passionate about Star Trek’s legacy, this is an episode you won’t want to miss!

This week on Trek Geeks, Bill and Dan are donning their tuxedos (metaphorically, of course) and ordering their martinis "shaken, not stirred" as they dive into the Star Trek: Deep Space Nine classic, Our Man Bashir! Join us for a lively discussion of this holosuite caper that combines Star Trek's charm with a healthy dose of spy genre flair. But wait—there's more! The guys simply can't help themselves, so prepare for an avalanche of references to James Bond, Austin Powers, Our Man Flint, and even Matt Helm. From Sean Connery's suave moves to Mike Myers' groovy antics, nothing is off-limits as they connect the dots between 1960s spy kitsch and the future of Starfleet. You'll laugh, you'll groan (at Dan, mostly), and you might even be inspired to watch a Bond flick or two after this episode. Is this their most over-the-top discussion yet? Possibly. Is it a blast? Absolutely. Don't miss it! Grab your gadgets, geeks—this mission is about to self-destruct in 3… 2… 1…

Bill and Dan return to the mic and take on the classic DS9 episode, "Little Green Men!" On a trip to deliver Nog to Starfleet Acadamy in Quark's brand new shuttle, Quark, Rom, and Nog time travel and crash land in Roswell, New Mexico in 1947 becoming the first extra terrestrials to visit Earth--and possibly to negotiate a deal for profit! Will Quark take over the planet? How will they get home? Plus, don't forget about the premiere of "Thursday Night Geeks," the livestream from Trek Geeks premiering on Thursday, January 30th at 8pm ET! Are you ready for some Star Trek? ;)

VIVA LAS VEGAS! (Corrected Version) Dan and Bill returned from their annual trip to the Star Trek Family Reunion and had a blast--even though it took Bill forever to edit this episode. Seriously, blame him for why the Trek Geeks haven't been in your ear holes. There was probably a better way to say that. Sorry. You'll get the full breakdown on their experience at STLV 2024: the good, the bad, and the potential for change. Plus, hear why Bill FINALLY enjoyed staying at the Rio for the first time in TEN YEARS! But wait, there's more! Audio from inside the vendor hall with Dan and Bill with special guest appearances from Lew from FanSets and also our first ever guest on Trek Geeks nearly ten years ago: Michele Specht! It's a super-sized episode and we hope you enjoy it! (Again, still Bill's fault.)