Shows
A Star to Steer Her ByTen Forward 48: Re-AnimatorHappy Halloween! We've transformed into "A Star to SPOOK Her By" this week as we take a look at a cult sci-fi horror classic. But this one has a quite explicit "Star Trek" connection in the form of Jeffrey Combs! But unlike his many "Trek" appearances, he's not behind makeup, just the respectable spectacles of Herbert West, the titular "Re-Animator". It's the film's 40th anniversary, so no better year to check it out! It's a movie that starts spooky and escalates quickly into ever-mounting craziness, culminating in a completely daft and brilliantly schlocky climax!
Also this week: an alternate title...
2025-10-301h 11
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 410: Farewell To A MonsterIt may not be three ghosts but Georgiou is getting her own little "Christmas Carol" in "Terra Firma, Part 2". Witness what this show seems to think is a redemption of everyone's favorite (?) genocidal maniac as she's kind of nice to Mirror Saru and has her daughter murder a bunch of people in her name. Look, we don't know what they were going for here, either.
Also this week: thank goodness for Sonequa, wasting Killy, and a look back at the Mirror Universe!
[Note: Picard S.2 spoilers 36:55 - 37:33]
[TF2: 01:50; How did we get here?: 1:00:18]
[Break out the skimpy costumes: https://sshbpodcast...
2025-09-181h 36
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 409: ArrasIt's another jaunt to The Mirror Universe (or perhaps *A* Mirror Universe) this week as the "Discovery" writers have to figure out a way to get Georgiou into the past for what was then planned to be a "Section 31" series. In "Terra Firma, Part 1" the effects of being away from her universe and time are threatening to strike the Emperor down, and only a man in a funny hat may have the key to save her. There's also some incidental Burn stuff, as a treat.
Also this week: bringing back an old favorite, amazing makeup, and Mirror People!
[Terra Firma 1: 01:00...
2025-09-111h 24
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 407: Absolute Candor and Absolute KilljoysThe search for the origin of The Burn continues in "Unification III", and our next step is Vulcan! Wait, no, it's called Ni'Var now. At the home to a still-not-quite meshed Vulcan and Romulan culture, Michael Burnham has to defend her thesis while Saru gets to engage in the ages-old "Trek" tradition of being a captain who makes a pass at a guest star.
Also this week: sci-fi pinching from Judaism, Advocate Momchael, and military sci-fi!
[Unification III: 00:47; FALL IN...IN SPACE (sometimes)!: 52:59]
[Drop and read it twenty times!: https://sshbpodcast.tumblr.com/post/792426499446833153/im-not-at-all-tired-of-all-these-star-wars]
2025-08-211h 27
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 401: Kool-Aid Manning Into the FutureSeason 3 of "Discovery" starts off with a bang—rather literally, as Michael's first act in the future is to have a space-car accident. In "That Hope is You, Part 1", Burnham finds her plan to save all living things from Control might have succeeded, but in its place a new crisis arose: a dilithium-destroying cataclysm known simply as "The Burn". Now with her new...friend?...Book, she begins her search for not only her shipmates, but the Federation and Starfleet.
Also this week: bird clock, the Smuggler and his Queen, and Sci-Fi origins!
[Hope pt 1: 00:35; falling into science fiction: 49:00]
[where'd we co...
2025-07-101h 31
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 400: Experience TriviaWelcome all to the 400th mainline episode of "A Star to Steer Her By"! While it was always theoretical we'd make it this far, it's still a little mad that we actually have (and more, really, when you consider all the Ten Forwards and Shore Leaves that are counted separately). And we're celebrating by doing our own little twist on "Star Trek" Trivial Pursuit, with a little help from a piece of legendary merchandise!
Also this week: planning the next round of fanfics!
[The Game: 00:41; The Plan: 51:52]
2025-07-031h 00
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 398: Go See a Star WarWe've reached the end of S.2 of "Discovery" and...it's a LOT, guys. "Such Sweet Sorrow, Part II" is mostly action sequences all just strung together rapid-fire with only a few, regrettably-brief pauses for character work. Also one of the worst lines in the history of "Star Trek" is here. All we need is some Beastie Boys and we're at the crossroads of all off JJ Abrams' worst impulses.
Also this week: Bill & Ted, rocky ships, and wrapping season 2!
[Sorrow2: 01:13; momentary rankings: 1:02:45]
[In summation: https://sshbpodcast.tumblr.com/post/786712440848220160/discovery-season-2-mystery-boxes-all-the-way-down]
2025-06-191h 38
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 395: Momchael in the DuctsIt's all happening now, finally getting into gear...kinda near the end of things. Oops. In "Perpetual Infinity", Control makes its big play as we find out what Ma Burnham has been up to since her apparent death!
Also this week: drone editing, Supercorn, and "Enterprise" minor characters!
[Perpetual Infinity: 00:53; ENT Cadet Review: 57:53]
[Yes, "Enterprise" is back. Sorry. But here's some stuff we liked!: https://sshbpodcast.tumblr.com/post/784818924363612160/top-3-star-trek-enterprise-characters ]
2025-05-291h 09
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 384: Steamed Hams But It's Star TrekBack in the day, streaming "Trek" tried a fun little experiment that actually worked out pretty well! So of course they only did it twice. This week we're looking at the first four "Short Treks", bite-sized bits that go a bit outside the usual realms of the show. This time around we've got a stowaway, two different kinds of rescue, and a rascally con-man!
Also this week: kids shows, cartoons, and title cards!
[Timestamps: Runaway: 04:01; Calypso: 21:49; The Brightest Star: 38:31; The Escape Artist: 56:50; The Blog: 1:06:14]
[Intros: https://sshbpodcast.tumblr.com/post/777202555238449152/short-intros-for-short-treks ]
NOTE: we get into some, we'll say, "heavy foreshadowing"...
2025-03-041h 17
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 372: Pulling an EquinoxBrace yourself for the second-longest and probably-goofiest "Trek" title ever as we spend this week looking at "The Butcher's Knife Cares Not for the Lamb's Cry". The stakes are higher than ever for the "Discovery" crew to get her spore drive working properly as the Klingons launch an attack on a key Federation dilithium mining facility. Also Landry has really, fatally bad research methodology.
Also this week: a poorly-aged name-drop, a VERY judgmental suitcase, and DS9 multi-parters!
[Lambknife: 03:49; continuing the to be continued: 56:00]
[tumbl this way: https://www.tumblr.com/sshbpodcast/768327984720576512/to-be-continued-multi-parters-in-star-trek-part?source=share ]
2024-11-281h 58
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 371: Everyone Knows ThatWith that pesky, extra-long introduction out of the way, "Discovery" can start proper with "Context Is for Kings"! Michael's on her way to space jail until she's bailed out by the shady Captain Gabriel Lorca. He's got secret plans that involve a grumpy scientists, we meet a chatty roommate, and conveniently enough some of Burnham's old crew is along for the ride!
Also this week: a literal friend ship, a little information as a treat, and multi-parters!
[timestamps: Context: 01:25; multi-blog, pt 1: 55:25]
[starting now, but ending later: https://www.tumblr.com/sshbpodcast/767698117467488256/to-be-continued-multi-parters-in-star-trek-part?source=share ]
2024-11-211h 22
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 366: Nero Fiddled While Canon BurnedWell the whole prequel thing wasn't great with "Enterprise", so Paramount went to the next "we're out of ideas" phase: REBOOT! Yes, they've dumped Berman but brought in Abrams to bring his "Star Wars" flavored touch to "Star Trek". Time gets warped, Kirk gets drifted, and everyone gets significantly younger in 2009's "Star Trek"!
Also this week: Kelvinizing ourselves, gross relationships, and scale issues.
2024-10-031h 53
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 365: Unbelievably DumbOur collective dislike of "Enterprise" is hardly a secret, but even your hosts (and our guest) agree this show deserved a better sendoff than "These Are the Voyages...", or at least a sendoff that was about itself. Rather than simply wrapping things up with the preceding two-parter, the talentless hacks in charge decided to sideline the cast of this show in favor of tacking a horrible B-plot onto a good TNG episode that is made worse by its presence. An astoundingly dimwitted end to a poorly-executed program.
Also this week: hating crowds, seeking pranks, and ending "Enterprise".
[timestamps: These Are...
2024-09-122h 17
Stars of the StarStars of the Star: Mamta PopatMamta Popat is a Photographer for the Arizona Daily Star. She started her career at the Star in 2003 and has seen the Star evolve from film cameras to digital. Mamta and David talk about the excitement of the job, how the job has changed over the years, memorable assignments and the importance of her work for the community.
Watch and Listen to all episodes on Tucson.com.
Stars of the Star, a look inside the Arizona Daily Star Newsroom, talking to the people who tell Tucson’s Story. This podcast is made possible by David McCumber, Exe...
2024-07-1216 min
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 354: Just Get It Over WithOh God quick finish it up now, now, NOW! It's "Zero Hour" on "Enterprise" as everything is just tied up in a...well, not a neat little bow. Kind of a last-minute convoluted bow? Also somehow everything and nothing happens all at the same time. Then it's topped off by maybe the dumbest cliffhanger ever?
Also this week: too long a shorter season, lotta "Star Wars" in this "Star Trek", and wrapping an absolutely abysmal season of "Trek".
[timestamps: Zero Hour: 1:08; S.3 rankings: 38:19]
[The List: https://www.tumblr.com/sshbpodcast/753105347531718656/the-worst-season-of-all-of-star-trek?source=share]
2024-06-131h 00
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 353: Oh Right This Is Star TrekOne day, the writers of "Enterprise" woke up and remembered they weren't writing Nationalistic Propaganda-fest "24" and actually wrote a couple episodes of "Star Trek," wherein people talk about their problems instead of constantly torturing, murdering, and stealing from innocents! Check out a VERY late course-correction as we approach the end of this clustercuss with "The Council" and "Countdown"!
Also this week: lots of other franchises, genuine happiness, and Captain Janeway!
[timestamps: episodes: 01:48; Cap'n Coffee: 57:33]
[NB: Prodigy spoilers in the "Janeway" discussion, but there's a head's-up in the episode]
[she will blow this tumblr up if you cross her: https://www...
2024-06-061h 26
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 346: They Paradox Horses, Don't They?We got time travel and cosplay time travel this week on "Enterprise"! First up, Archer has "Fifty First Dates" syndrome and has to be told daily that Earth done gone kablooey over a decade ago in "Twilight". After that, how did old west humans get onto an alien world in the Delphic Expanse? Find out in "North Star"!
Also this week: symbolic stabbing, staggering hypocrisy, and Rom!
[timestamps: Twilight: 03:58; North Star: 34:59; Moogie's favorite boy: 1:01:34]
[Show proper respect to your Nagus at https://www.tumblr.com/sshbpodcast/747414429350658048/character-spotlight-rom?source=share]
2024-04-111h 23
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 336: When Did Star Trek Get Political?Warnings UP FRONT:
Unfortunately, "Fusion" is important background to the first episode this week, so the events of that come up. Also we're talking Tasha Yar later so her unfortunately-written history is also discussed.
ALSO: we throw caution to the wind and spoil the ever-living crap out of "Picard" throughout the blogtivity this week. Like almost from the word GO. So yeah.
ANYWAY
First up: it's an unsubtle metaphor some 16 years too late as "Trek" does an AIDS allegory in "Stigma". After that, Archer is the most annoying man in space and that makes him the only person to diplomatize...
2024-02-011h 38
A Star to Steer Her ByTen Forward 34: TrekkiesWell, the "Voyager" doc wasn't ready in time for us to cover it at the end of the series, so we went through the shelves and scrounged up "Trekkies", the Denise Crosby–hosted look at "Star Trek" conventions and the fans that attend them! It...certainly has a bias.
Also this week: The Match Game, Iowa, and mascots!
[cw: brief mention of suicidal ideation]
[The Star Trek Adventure: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-kC_dCCZV-o]
2023-08-311h 19
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 316: To the VoyageThe "Voyager" has made it, and so have we. Yes, it's "Endgame", the two-part series finale. But Admiral Janeway didn't get home fast enough for her liking so she proves Captain Braxton right by treating the time-space continuum as her plaything to get the ending she wants. All she has to do is convince herself to take an incredible risk that brings her toe-to-toe with the Borg one last time!
Also this week: Mom and Mom are fighting, Padme is a verb now, and wrapping "Voyager"!
[timestamps: Endgame: 02:32; Season 7 Wrap: 1:09:39; Series wrap: 1:29:20]
[Ranking S.7: https://www.tumblr.com/sshbpodcast/725209606410944512/going-out-with-a-bang-the-best-and-worst-of...
2023-08-102h 01
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 313: Well That's InconvenientThings are aggravating for Janeway this week on "Voyager". First up, Seven of Reg has a new video game that keeps her from her duties in "Human Error". After that, Q dumps his kid in Janeway's lap and asks her to fix his attitude problem in "Q2".
Also this week: a new theme, Neelix loves drapes, and TWO activities!
[timestamps: Human Error: 02:02; Q2: 23:12; blog: 47:22; fanfic planning: 01:00:10]
[Favorite Characters: https://www.tumblr.com/sshbpodcast/723309314557837312/top-3-star-trek-voyager-characters?source=share]
2023-07-201h 11
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 310: Broken Time, Broken HeartWhat complications have arisen for the "Voyager" crew this week? First, time is fragmented and only Chakotay can journey between the pieces of the puzzle in "Shattered"! After that, a new candidate for worst "Trek" parent emerges as major news forces B'Elanna to grapple with memories of her youth in "Lineage"!
Also this week: not quite a clip show, shearing the goat, and DS9 aliens!
[Timestamps: Shattered: 01:19; Lineage: 33:38; blog: 1:06:59]
[feeling alienated: https://www.tumblr.com/sshbpodcast/721398042214924288/top-3-star-trek-deep-space-nine-alien-races?source=share]
2023-06-291h 26
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 308: Dang It, Holograms!Our photonic friends are nothing but trouble this week on "Voyager". First up: a facsimile Barclay who should be helping "Voyager" is instead reprogrammed by Ferengi (or is it Ferengeh?)to kill them all in the name of profit in "Inside Man". After that, The Doctor needs to hide from hologram-haters inside Seven, but it also means he gets to go full "Being John Malkovich" with her in "Body & Soul".
Also this week: more sunscreen chat than you might expect, a stupid, stupid, stupid, stupid B plot, and DS9 guest characters!
[timestamps: Inside Man: 01:35; Body & Soul: 33:48; Blog: 1:03:03]
[Tumbl on over...
2023-06-081h 25
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 299: The One With The RockThere's still two episodes this week, but what else should we have called this? SEO matters, kids! First up, in "Memorial", we debate how best to study history after the "Voyager" crew has it forced upon them. After that, a ratings stunt turns out to be much better than expected, but it's not because of the obvious guest star in "Tsunkatse".
Also this week: the sport identifier, Dwayne "Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson" Johnson, and TNG aliens!
[timestamps: Memorial: 01:13; Tsunkatse: 38:36; blog: 1:14:06]
[tumbl: https://www.tumblr.com/sshbpodcast/713148338973884416/top-3-star-trek-the-next-generation-alien-races?source=share]
2023-03-301h 42
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 297: Getting It Nightly on the HolodeckWe're back in the holodeck with two of its biggest fans this week! First up: Reg Barclay and Deanna Troi drop by from TNG to help everyone's favorite neurotic genius get over his latest addiction while he tries to get in touch with our far-flung heroes in "Pathfinder". After that, Janeway has set aside the dreary Lord Burleigh for a strapping Irish publican (with a few tweaks) who serves a town of stereotypes in "Fair Haven"!
Also this week: recycled stills, "Up The Long Ladder" vibes, and TNG Side Pieces!
[Timestamps: Pathfinder: 01:31; Fair Haven: 26:58; TNG Guests: 56:20]
[Main blog: https://www...
2023-03-161h 09
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 296: Mummies and BlobsquatchesHistory is irrelevant this week on "Voyager"...or is it? First up, what feels like a Tom episode is actually a Chakotay episode until it turns into a "let's teach Seven something about humanity" episode when spaceman Phil Morris gets eaten by space food (your view of which may depend on your background) and becomes jerky by the 24th century in "One Small Step"! After that, Seven is auditioning to be the worst kind of "news" host when her brain makes connections that make sense if you don't think very hard in "The Voyager Conspiracy"!
Also this week: guest dog...
2023-03-091h 39
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 293: My BadSPOILERS: up top so no one misses it. We spoil most of Picard S.2 during the blogtivity, and also bits of Discovery S.3. Anyway, you can proceed now.
This week, some of our heroes are grappling with guilt. In "Survival Instinct", Seven finds out a rash action during her Borg days has ruined the lives of three fellow former drones. After that, Torres has condemned her mother to Klingon Hell and we mostly think about episodes of "Futurama" we'd rather be watching in "Barge of the Dead".
Also this week: "Simpsons" references for good measure, seriously wanting something else, and...
2023-02-161h 35
A Star to Steer Her ByTen Forward 29: ProdigyIt's the biggest surprise of the streaming era of "Star Trek", and we're here to broadly talk about its first season! Yes, "Star Trek: Prodigy" recently finished up its freshman outing and it was SHOCKINGLY good! Come listen to us basically just gush the whole time about a cartoon aimed at families starring characters that are mostly not adults. I know, we're shocked, too!
Also this week: using canon well, the secret origins of Murf, and a unique science consultant!
[note: MINOR spoilers for other streaming "Trek" series within]
2023-01-121h 06
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 288: The Real Disease is Existential DreadIt's a week of medical maladies this week on "Voyager", but there's something else going on! First up: the most interesting plot in "The Disease" is unfortunately not the main one, as we mostly follow a mopey Harry. After that, a bizarre sickness is infecting the crew, and the solution reveals a horrifying truth in "Course: Oblivion".
Also this week: no alien love, no plot armor, and no escape from space sickness!
NOTE: Spoilers for basically ALL the Paramount+ "Trek" series in our blogtivity; major for "Picard" s.1, pretty big for SNW and "Prodigy", minor for "Lower Decks".
[Timestamps: The...
2023-01-051h 27
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 278: Fickle MemoryRemembering things is complicated, especially when science fiction gets involved. First up: the "Voyager" crew meets a mysterious woman who says she not only knows all of them, but has Biblically known Chakotay, but that her unique biology remembers her unmemorable in "Unforgettable". After that, bias and incomplete data ruin an understanding of history that only the EMH can cure in "Living Witness".
Also this week: a bad pen, stomping comparisons, and historical cameos!
[Timetamps: Unforgettable: 02:42; Living Witness: 34:16; Historical Figures: 1:11:33]
[de blog: https://www.tumblr.com/sshbpodcast/698566171258224640/four-score-and-seven-lightyears-ago-historic?fbclid=IwAR21z9FVq0MYnBHAtIevU4fsTXSNYQIPdXx3DLwCLhZW2McWWHKKkCUiLO0]
2022-10-201h 33
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 276: CoD: VoyagerPeople like to claim video games inspire violence, but what if they can release violent impulses, instead? That's what the Hirogen that have taken "Voyager" and her crew captive aim to find out in "The Killing Game", parts one and two! Brainwashed into believing they are living in World War 2 France, much of the crew are living NPCs for a sadistic game. How will they break free before game over?
Also this week: part debate, somehow quidditch, and the alien ships of the Delta Quadrant!
[Timestamps: Killing Game: 1:08; Ships' Shapes: 43:34]
[le blog: https://sshbpodcast.tumblr.com/post/697303429362728960/vessel-detected-alien-ships-in-star-trek-part-5]
2022-10-061h 02
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 274: Complicated Calling PlanAnd you thought having to wait for nights and weekends in the 1990s was bad! To get in touch with the Alpha Quadrant, the "Voyager" crew has to nearly lose their only doctor and then fight off a bunch of hunting-obsessed aliens. But no one suffers more than our beloved EMH, who has to spend time with Andy Dick in "Message in a Bottle". Oh, yeah, and Tuvok and Seven are kidnapped and nearly deboned in "Hunters", but that would be preferable to spending ANY time with NewsRadio's second-worst cast member.
Also this week: a spoony bard Doctor, vindication regarding...
2022-09-151h 38
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 273: DreamscapesUp front: MAJOR content warning. Our first episode, "Mortal Coil", has a character attempting to end their own life. We discuss it and other topics related to it AT LENGTH. Please use the timestamps to jump ahead to "Waking Moments" if this discussion could cause discomfort.
In this week's episodes, can dreams solve an existential crisis? Can they be used to conquer enemies? And how does Chakotay factor in to all of this?! All this and more in this week's "A Star to Steer Her By"!
Also this week: Bryan Fuller, a famous horn, and Romulan starships!
[Timestamps: "Mortal Coil": 00:47; "...
2022-09-011h 16
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 272: Black Market FridayShopping can be dangerous in space. You never know if you'll wind up with a lobotomy or having to overpay for your own, stolen merchandise. First up, in "Random Thoughts", B'elanna's temper puts her at odds with the strict morals of a telepathic alien race with boundary issues. After that, a lot of important things get stolen in "Concerning Flight" including, apparently, any sense of a good story.
Also this week: suggestive produce, a bad plane, and Klingon ships!
Note: spoilers for "Lower Decks" season 2 after the closing theme!
[Timestamps: Thoughts: 01:57; Flight: 28:23; Klingons: 56:05]
[Tumbl here: https://sshbpodcast.tumblr.com/post/693499753520037888...
2022-08-251h 20
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 271: Janeway'dThe long-forewarned but completely forgotten "Year of Hell" has arrived! In this epic two-parter some dumb*ss jams his foot up time's backside so hard he simultaneously saves his empire and murders his family, and then decides it's the fault of "Voyager" and her crew! Janeway must contend with the world's most brilliant idiot trying to kill them all even as her ship and crew crumble around her! Will things ever return to normal?!
Also this week: Caitlin's old trick, everyone's favorite plans, and wrapping up Starfleet's look!
[timestamps: Episode: 02:39; ship chat 50:49]
[tumbl: https://sshbpodcast.tumblr.com/post/692874413338689536/getting-shipshape-with-starfleet-ship-shapes-part]
2022-08-181h 13
A Star to Steer Her ByTen Forward 25: Strange New Worlds S.1It's the latest entry from the new era of "Star Trek", the Pike-lead "Strange New Worlds"! The Enterprise (no bloody A, B, C or D)is back in what is either a new spinoff or the most delayed pickup in television history as episodic storytelling makes its live-action franchise return. We have thoughts, but what kind?! Spoilers abound as we discuss the season in a fairly general way, and also some major plot points for "Picard" S.1 and 2 also come up, so be wary there.
Also this week: bad self-promotion, Sam Fleegman, and filling in some blogtivity gaps!
[Timestamps: season...
2022-07-211h 45
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 264: Boat Shoes and Back BabiesOrigins are tricky things, sometimes. First up, Harry Kim might be more than we assumed when salmon-like instincts kick in for him in "Favorite Son". After that, Kes gets to examine her entire life backwards and really see her starting point in the most unsettling ways in "Before and After"!
Also this week: Sir Galaharry, strong candle opinions, and Klingons!
[Timestamps: "Favorite Son": 00:55; "Before and After": 31:46; Klingon chat: 1:03:07]
[tumbl with us, why not? https://sshbpodcast.tumblr.com/post/687150733353713664/who-has-the-most-honor-the-best-klingons-in-star]
2022-06-161h 21
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 263: Tuvok is a JerkWe love Tuvok here on "A Star to Steer Her By", but even we can admit he's occasionally a bit of a pill. And this week he gets to show that off! First up, he and a bunch of the other men of "Voyager" think they know better than Kes what she wants to do with her life, and the results almost turn deadly in "Darkling"! After that, Neelix just wants to help and ultimately calls his colleague on some of his nonsense in "Rise"!
Also this week: pitching to "Prodigy", a surprising amount of monkey talk, and Romulans!
[timestamps: "...
2022-06-091h 11
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 262: Whoops, Borg!"Voyager" continues the unsettling tradition of "Trek" being bad at being sexy this week. First up, things go too pon farr when a crewman hits the disturbing Vulcan mating season and sets his sights on B'Elanna in "Blood Fever". After that, some ex-Borg have decided they want to be pseudo-Borg but need Chakotay's help to pull it off in "Unity"! Will his attraction to one of their number be enough to turn Commander Milquetoast against Janeway's orders?
Also this week: needs more bells, a doomed proposition, and our favorite Vulcans!
CW: sexual assault in the first episode
Note: MINOR "Strange...
2022-06-021h 11
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 258: The Uno Reverse"Voyager" is going both rad AND tubular as they time travel back to the radical 1990s in the two-part "Future's End"! When a Future Federation Time Cop shows up to explode the "Voyager" and her crew because they allegedly kill billions, things go awry and everyone is back in time and back on Earth. Get ready for "Trek 4" references and a bunch of other obvious time travel gags, an evil Ed Begley, Jr and the EMH on a walkabout!
Also this week: old TV themes, the curse of "Trek" 2-parters, and "Trek" tech!
[timestamps: "Future's End": 06:19; Technology: 1:08:49]
[Tumbl with us...
2022-05-051h 39
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 257: Sensual Ball LuteThis week starts off strong and then plunges right into a cave full of garbage! First up: what seem like very pleasant dreams for Torres soon turn to a tale of monumental evil in "Remember". After that, Kes is almost killed and our interest in this episode is definitely offed by the end of "Sacred Ground".
Also this week: the worst home renovation, needing Betazoids, and TOS aliens!
[timestamps: "Remember": 03:35; "Sacred Ground": 29:56; Blogtivity: 49:00]
[tumbl with us!: https://sshbpodcast.tumblr.com/post/682726885793333248/top-3-star-trek-the-original-series-alien-races]
2022-04-281h 04
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 256: The Paris PounceWe've got visitors from the Alpha Quadrant dropping in this week, albeit one of them holographically. First up: when The Doctor's memory begins fragmenting, only his holographic Papa can help...but can they save him without wiping his last two years of experience? Find out in "The Swarm". After that, it's a sequel to TNG's "The Price" when the "Voyager" crew come across Ferengi in the Delta Quadrant in "False Profits"!
Also this week: Wonka space, Murphy's Law, and TOS villains!
[Timestamps: "Swarm": 01:58; "Profits": 29:24; TOS Baddie Chat: 1:00:07]
[Tumbl here!: https://sshbpodcast.tumblr.com/post/682076245850193920/top-3-star-trek-the-original-series-villains]
2022-04-211h 22
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 255: Shades of SixFeeling a bit "Undiscovered Country" up in "Voyager" today. Most of all because we take a look at Tuvok's memories from when he was an Ensign under Captain Sulu during that very time in "Flashback". But there's also some real Rura Penthe vibes at the prison Harry and Tom find themselves unjustly tossed into in "The Chute".
Also this week: pon farr again, General Order 24, and TOS guests!
[timestamps: "Flashback": 01:25; "The Chute": 33:04; TOS Guests: 54:38]
[Tumbl with us here!: https://sshbpodcast.tumblr.com/post/681438780772827136/top-3-star-trek-the-original-series-characters]
2022-04-141h 12
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 253: Stayin' AliveEverybody wants to live this week on "Voyager", but who deserves to? First up, Michael McKean plays a psychotic digital clown in a pre-"The Matrix" virtual world and he needs brains to keep him going in "The Thaw". After that: a transporter accident creates new life but at the cost of two crew members in "Tuvix".
Also this week: Lurches, Curzodo, and Taco Turquoise!
[timestamps: "Thaw": 02:10; "Tuvix": 30:59; blogtivation: 1:08:57]
[To tumbl along: https://sshbpodcast.tumblr.com/post/680180473228574720/this-star-trek-chair-made-out-of-100-recycled]
2022-03-311h 31
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 252: Going Every Horrible PlaceDeath! Existential crises! Vidiians! And, worst of all, children! Dear God how will the "Voyager" crew cope after this week?! First up: two Voyagers, two problems! In "Deadlock" Voyager has 99 problems and they're all...their own fault? After that: a recycled "Mork & Mindy" plot is meant to be a shocking twist in the ultimately awful "Innocence".
Also this week: Janeway needs to listen to Janeway, the true identity of the monster that lives in the cave, and alien chairs!
[timestamps: "Deadlock": 02:07; "Innocence": 36:50; Blogtivity: 58:40]
[Tumbl along with us!: https://sshbpodcast.tumblr.com/post/679540904963506176/this-star-trek-chair-made-out-of-100-recycled]
2022-03-241h 25
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 251: Stale SerialStorylines come to a head this week on "Voyager", and boy oh boy it sure is an unsatisfying conclusion! First up, though, we get a delightful love story between the EMH and the show's first nice Vidiian alongside some useless drek in "Lifesigns". [content warning: there is more talk of end-of-life choices related to this episode] After that: is Tom really leaving and will Jonas finally be exposed in "Investigations"?
Also this week: EMH smell, hole-flinging, and Captain's chairs part two!
[Timestamps: "Lifesigns": 02:46; "Investigations": 34:37; Blogtivity: 1:01:49]
[Tumblr!: https://sshbpodcast.tumblr.com/post/678901761454522368/i-miss-my-old-star-trek-chair-too-part-2]
2022-03-171h 34
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 250: ChoicesCONTENT WARNING: one of this week's episodes is about suicide, so lots of talk of that sort.
Choices are key here this week on "Voyager", tho in quite different ways. First up: an old decision of B'elanna's comes back to haunt her in the form of a Cardassian doomsday device in "Dreadnought". After that, Janeway has to play judge in a trial for a Q (no, not that Q, but he's also here) who wants asylum and the right to die on his terms in "Death Wish".
Also this week: missile perfection, Q-uid pro quo, and Captain's chairs!
[Timestamps: "Dreadnought": 03:22; "...
2022-03-101h 37
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 248: Who Needs the Prime Directive?Rough week for the Prime Directive on "Voyager". First up, Torres isn't willing to die OR let her crew be killed over it when murderbots ask her to help them reproduce in "Prototype". Then in "Alliances", Janeway has to balance the needs of her ship against the strictures of the Prime Directive.
Also this week: suffocating actors, Square One Television, and alien uniforms!
[Timestamps: "Prototype": 01:31; "Alliances": 24:00; Alien Uniforms: 56:02]
[Tumbl-along: https://sshbpodcast.tumblr.com/post/676383414576889856/onscreen-or-it-didnt-happen-alien-uniforms-of]
2022-02-171h 39
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 246: Guest Starring VulcansWe've got former and future Vulcans guesting this week on "Voyager"! First up, Admiral Savar of TNG is dropping by to play Dad to young, annoying Chakotay's "Tattoo". After that, a pre-"Enterprise" Ambassador Soval is playing a DIFFERENT smug, superior jerk – with a whole extra dose of creepy – when he gets caught up in "Cold Fire".
Also this week: Doctor Flu, desecrating a corpse, and dress uniforms!
[Timestamps: belated holidays: 00:41; "Tattoo": 12:34; "Cold Fire": 36:28; dress uniforms: 58:03]
[readalong with Tumblr!: https://sshbpodcast.tumblr.com/post/675105342397546496/star-trek-plays-fancy-dress-up]
2022-02-031h 21
A Star to Steer Her BySSHB Episode 240: Get Back In There!Everybody needs stuff put back this week on "Voyager"! First up, Chakotay's very being is shoved out of his body by weird aliens that want to eat everyone's neural energy in "Cathexis". After that, B'Elanna's been split into human and Klingon forms and they DO NOT get on in "Faces"!
Also this week: we'll always blame Paris, a drowned-rat Talaxian, and title sequences!
[timestamps: "Cathexis": 01:17; "Faces": 36:00; Title Sequences: 1:04:07]
[Tumblr link: https://sshbpodcast.tumblr.com/post/671302284402098176/fwooming-by-in-the-star-trek-opening-title]
2021-12-231h 55
A Star to Steer Her BySSHB Episode 239: Branching OutFolks are trying something new this week on "Voyager". First up, someone has been doing some under-the-table diplomacy, otherwise known as treason, but WHO could it possibly be?! Find out the obvious answer in "State of Flux". After that, The Doctor has to leave his comfort zone and the only part of the ship he's ever known to pop into the holodeck to try and save vanished crewmembers. Find out if he also gets lucky in "Heroes and Demons"!
Also this week: Cardassian birthdays, English major tangent, and series themes!
[timestamps: "Flux": 00:58; "Heroes" 27:03; theme discussion: 52:33]
[this week's blogpost: https://sshbpodcast...
2021-12-161h 33
A Star to Steer Her BySSHB Episode 238: Death and The Little DeathIt has been suggested that all literature, at the end of the day, is about sex, death, and/or religion. And we've got the lot this week on "Voyager"! First up, the Prime Directive is getting destroyed along with a new species' concepts of mortality and the afterlife in "Emanations". After that, a bunch of creepy hedonists have insanely powerful tech and their own Prime Directive in "Prime Factors!"
Also this week: surprising lack of spiders, Chicago gangster fascists, and title cards!
[timestamps: "Emanations": 01:22; "Prime Factors": 31:28; analyzing title cards: 01:03:00]
[this week's blog post: https://sshbpodcast.tumblr.com/post/670034861111885824/s-is-for-star-trek-series-title-cards]
2021-12-091h 32
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 236: Cruel HarvestWe're robbing bodies this week on "Voyager"! First up, Neelix has his lungs stolen by a dying species that it's kind of impossible to have any sympathy for in "Phage". After that, the crew unwittingly invades an alien being in a desperate search for a power boost and has to undo their own damage in "The Cloud".
Also this week: butt breathing, Harry Kim is too weird, and posters!
[timestamps: "Phage": 01:09; "The Cloud": 33:12; poster discussion: 1:00:26]
[this week's tumblr link: https://sshbpodcast.tumblr.com/post/668768135663452160/the-many-faces-of-star-trek-movie-posters]
2021-11-251h 30
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 235: DoubletimeIt's two time travel stories this week where a lot of stuff doesn't actually make a lot of sense. But it really doesn't matter in "Parallax", since it's really about Janeway and Torres becoming best friends. And it doesn't matter in "Time and Again" because ultimately the episode never happened!
Also this week: Ocampa issues, inexplicable Arabic numerals, and kerning!
[Timestamps: "Parallax": 01:16; "Time and Again": 32:31; this week's activity: 55:35]
[play along at home! https://sshbpodcast.tumblr.com/post/668141324229296128/scrutinizing-the-star-trek-movie-title-cards]
2021-11-181h 20
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 234: An Intrepid StartAfter stomping through several desert planets and other, more interesting space environs for the past few weeks it's so very nice to be home for "Star Trek"! Too bad we're then INSTANTLY lost in the Delta quadrant when the USS Voyager and the Maquis they were chasing are yoinked across the Galaxy by an alien who probably should've come up with a better plan. We think. Aspects of it are kind of vague in the series premier: "Caretaker".
Also this week! Everyone had bad hair, Admiral Paris got around, and we played a game!
[Timestamps: "Caretaker": 00:02:20; A game!: 1:31:13]
[Play along...
2021-11-111h 48
A Star to Steer Her ByTen Forward 22: Into the DuniverseWe're on our way home from our extended "Star Wars" shore leave but have decided to spice up our lives with a little stopover on Arrakis, a world without which George's fictional universe might've looked VERY different. We're mostly talking the Lynch/Smithee 1980s "Dune" and Villeneuve 2021 "Dunc", with a few forays into Herbert's novel and brief glimpses towards Jodorowsky and the Sci-Fi miniseries. As 1980s "Dune" covers material "Dunc" has not gotten to, be warned there are potential spoilers for Denny V's eventual "part 2". if you're down for that, or already know where it's all going, join us as...
2021-11-042h 14
A Star to Steer Her ByShore Leave - Star Wars 7: Disney UnreadyAnd so "Star Wars" ends for us, at least for now. Maybe we'll be back when more "Mandalorian" rolls around or something, no promises. But we sat back and were all pleasantly surprised by how good "The Force Awakens" actually was, before the discourse nightmare of its sequels came along and retroactively ruined it. Really a fine way to finish off this sub-project.
Also this week: the Force as an excuse for lazy writing, hero of circumstance, and ANOTHER song!
[note: find a photo of the big board of Star Wars rankings at https://sshbpodcast.tumblr.com/post/666252313160286208/star-war-films-ranked]
[Timestamps...
2021-10-282h 28
A Star to Steer Her ByShore Leave - Star Wars 6: Darth's AdvocateAnd so it ends. Well, so we thought. But for a while, anyway, the "Star Wars" films ended here with "Revenge of the Sith", an ungodly mix of overlong action AND overlong scenes of people just TALKING. It's the worst of all worlds as Lucas tries to cram together epic laser fights, what he thinks romance is, and endless, perplexing politics. Good riddance to bad rubbish, the prequels. It's been awful.
Also this week: Palpatine might have a point, Quippy-Wan, and a little ditty to see you out.
2021-10-212h 03
A Star to Steer Her ByShore Leave - Star Wars 5: The Rise of Dexter JettsterThe awful sure does get everywhere as we make our way to "Attack of the Clones"! Little Ani's all growed up, but he has game so cold Hoth would call him chilly. Despite that Amidala is ALL ABOUT his deadpan, town-murdering self. It makes about as much sense as anything else in this endless, dreary pile of a picture.
Also this week: a better Force battle, subcontractors all the way down, and Obi-Wan can't make sandwiches.
2021-10-141h 26
A Star to Steer Her ByShore Leave - Star Wars 4: George UnfetteredSo this is where it all begins, twenty-two years after it began: "The Phantom Menace". Come see Darth Vader as you've never seen him before - and never wanted to, really: as a precocious scamp who races electric chariots and says "yipee!" Meet a young Obi-Wan Kenobi, who's really kind of a jerk about locals, and his well-established master, Jedi Knight Y...oh...Qui-Gon Jinn? Anyway, sit back and relax and check out what is clearly a children's movie except for all the long-winded political discussions.
Also this week: an impressive bathroom break, overdone Yoda-speak, and poor Sith utilization.
2021-10-071h 38
A Star to Steer Her ByShore Leave - Star Wars 3: Blue HarvestIt's where it should have ended as we come to "Return of the Jedi"! Before the prequels and the sequels this was where the universe was left off (if you were one of the normal folks that ignored the reams of books and comics, video games, bad animated TV series, made-for-TV Ewok movies...). The Empire makes a daring stand as the Rebels make their make-or-break attack, even while Luke tries to undo the years of trauma heaped upon Anakin by the Emperor and, let's be honest, the Jedi before him. Unfortunately there's also Ewoks.
Also this week: pointless ground battles...
2021-09-301h 26
A Star to Steer Her ByShore Leave - Star Wars 2: The Emancipation from ConventionOur vacation continues as we make our way to what is, for many, the absolute pinnacle of the franchise: "The Empire Strikes Back". It starts with what should be the act III setpiece and then ends with one of the most famous reveals in modern movies, and everything in the middle is pretty iconic, too!
Also this week: the look and sound of "Star Wars", poorly aged "romance" and Fish Vader.
2021-09-231h 50
A Star to Steer Her ByShore Leave - Star Wars 1: Star Wars UnburdenedTime for another few-week break between "Trek" series! This time we're finishing off the "Star Wars" films we've not yet covered in Ten Forwards! So come back with us to 1977 when "Star Wars" had yet to be weighed down by 40-plus years of extra lore, buyouts, new extra lore, fanboy rage, and all the other stuff that can really make it an exhausting franchise sometimes! Yes, it's "Star Wars", not even "Episode IV" at first, as a simple story introduces audiences to a world that would change the pop culture landscape and movie-making for decades!
Also this week: good edits...
2021-09-161h 34
Her SportIt's Just Sport: A League Of Her Own | Grace Walsh All-Ireland Winner with KilkennyCamogie star, Grace Walsh, was at the forefront of #Kilkenny's All-Ireland triumph back in December 2020. When Walsh is not hassling the opposition forward line on the pitch, she spends the majority of the time in St Vincent's Hospital as a qualified nurse. The #Camogie All-Star discusses balancing her work life with sport, her highlight moments of 2020, the beginning of her journey as well as playing with the boys! #GAA #AllIreland #WomenInSport
Visit the website https://hersport.ie/
Check out the Her Sport channels
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/hersport.ie
Facebo...
2021-05-0726 min
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 202: Manufactured LivesNo one is who they seem this week on DS9! First up, when the Emergency Medical Hologram's creator chooses Julian to be the template for the next, long-term version we discover there's more to the good Doctor than meets the eye in "Doctor Bashir, I Presume". After that, a would-be femme fatale finds her way into Odo's life, but the mystery to her is even deeper than she realizes in "A Simple Investigation".
Also this week: A special visitor, drowning Richard, and bedroom eyes.
[Timestamps: "Doctor Bashir": 07:46; "Investigation": 1:02:32]
2021-01-071h 40
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 200: A Self-Indulgent SpectacularEveryone welcome! Welcome to A Star to Steer Her By's 200th Episode spectacular! We've come a long way and we're honestly more than a little amazed to be here! Thank you to all who've joined us!
For our big 200 we are eschewing the usual procedure and calling on some former guests to join us for a few rounds of "Trek" trivia before making them have some fun with Shakespeare! It's a bit of a long one, but I promise it is a grand old time from start to finish! So get a warm drink (or cold if you're listening to...
2020-12-242h 13
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 199: The Star Trek PardcastSome familiar faces are dropping by DS9 this week, for good or ill.
First up, when Odo gets his hands on a baby Changeling in "The Begotten," Dr. Mora drops by to meddle. I mean give advice. Yes. After that, the hunt for Eddington continues and is continually botched by Sisko making it personal in "For the Uniform".
Also this week: changing our remit, Bajoran birthing rituals, and more than you wanted to know about Victor Hugo!
[Timestamps: "Begotten": 01:36; "For the Uniform": 31:58]
2020-12-171h 16
A Star to Steer Her ByTen Forward 14: Picard Season 1SPOILERS! Seriously, they are there from the off, so if you've not yet watched all of the first season of "Star Trek: Picard" and don't want to be spoiled, skip this episode! We'll be back next week with more DS9!
Otherwise, kick back and chill with your SSHB friends as we do a very broad, slightly meandering overview of the first season of the latest "Trek" series. This isn't a deep dive, more a high-view impressions recorded MERE DAYS after the season one finale. If that sounds like fun, come check it out and find out which of your stalwarts...
2020-04-021h 33
A Star to Steer Her ByShore Leave - Firefly #1: Shiny Unhappy PeopleFolks, your stalwarts have been at this "Star Trek" thing now for 3 years, with the occasional tangentially-related break for a "Ten Forward". So it's about time we took some Shore Leave! For the next few weeks we're talkin' "Firefly", the Joss Whedon cult space western. First up it's "Serenity", the 2-hour premier, where we meet our crew, mysterious passengers, and suspicious cargo. After that, a job that seems too fun to be true has a catch in "The Train Job".
Also this week: Ames has a chart, Caitlin gets revenge, and we wonder where all the Asian actors are.
Timestamps...
2019-09-121h 15
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 145 Picard v. Cosplay Dr. EvilWe've come to the end of the mostly-trash TNG movie era, but it is not going to go out quietly. Instead it's going to assault us with bad attempts at being Shakespearean and a mind-numbingly long and dull space battle. Even Tom Hardy's luscious lips can't save "Nemesis".
Also this week: deleted scenes, wait this was written by WHO?!, and ranking the Prime Timeline films!
Timestamps: Nemesis: 0:47; Movies wrap up: 1:04:43
Movies ranked: https://www.tumblr.com/sshbpodcast/187396362280/star-trek-original-timeline-films-ranked
2019-08-291h 32
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 144 ApostasyWhat happens when you toss "Who Watches the Watchers", "Journey's End", and "Homeward" into a blender, sprinkle a DASH of "The Wrath of Khan" angst over getting old on top, and then bake for 1 hour 43 minutes? The absolute clustercuss that is the thoroughly middling "Star Trek: Insurrection"! A planet has some magic space dust that's basically a fountain of youth, and the Federation has decided "screw ethics" to get their hands on it with the help of F. Murray Abraham doing his best "Brazil" face.
Also this week: lost opening, dumb puberty jokes, and ever-increasing stakes.
2019-08-221h 17
A Star to Steer Her ByTen Forward 11 The RocketeerCome back with us to a simpler time, when Marvel was going broke, DC had made a GOOD "Batman" movie, and no one thought it was controversial to punch Nazis. It's the heady days of 1991 and "The Rocketeer" launches into theaters, bringing a whole pile of "Trek" guest star alum along for the ride! Join your stalwarts as we revisit this piece from our childhood and find out, holy crap, it holds up shockingly well!
Also this week: Chekhov's Gum, The Business Plot, and strong crust opinions!
Note: spoilers for "Infinity War" and "Hot Fuzz"
Theme adapted from the US...
2019-08-011h 09
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 129 A Star to Steer IntoTime to finish off Season 6 and start Season 7 (my God, how are we already to the final season of TNG?!) with "Descent". Data likes feeling, the Borg like individuality, and Lore likes manipulating all of them!
Also this week: getting derailed in record time, "Gordy" v. "Babe", and mocking the guest!
Timestamps: Descent: 1:52; Season 6 wrap up: 44:17
2019-04-251h 10
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 120 Coming of AgeSeason six of TNG continues its trend of "meh" this week. First up: a young woman with big dreams for her future finds there is more to her late parents - and herself - than anyone realized in "True Q". After that, the most ill-conceived transporter technobabble yet turns four "Enterprise" crew into children who then have to save the ship from...really?...the Ferengi in "Rascals". Lord.
Also this week: a boisterous intro, Trek dogs, and repeat Ferengi.
Timestamps: synopses: 1:30; True Q: 7:45; Rascals: 37:38
2019-02-211h 13
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 117 Back in the DayThe past is the place to be - either virtually or actually - on TNG this week! First up, Picard lives the final decades of a long-dead alien world in the fan-favorite "The Inner Light". After that, "Star Trek" goes full "Doctor Who" with paradoxes and historical guest stars in the two-part "Time's Arrow".
Also this week: more soup, Jake goes Frisco, and wrapping S.5!
Timestamps: synopses: 0:52; The Inner Light: 6:20; Time's Arrow: 34:47; Season 5 wrap up: 1:14:02
2019-01-311h 45
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 112 Weird ScienceIt's a tenuous connection at best this week on SSHB! First up, some unexplained tech has separated consciousnesses from bodies, allowing them to hijack some "Enterprise" crew in "Power Play". After that, it's anything BUT a barrel of laughs for Worf when he loses the ability to walk, but can he get it back thanks to a radical, barely-tested procedure in "Ethics"?
Also this week: Doctor Hillary Clinton, Jake explains Scientology (maybe?), and Klingon musical groups.
Note: "Star Trek Beyond" spoilers from 14:26-14:59.
Also also: this title really wreaks havoc with that whole "i before e except after c" thing...
2018-12-271h 12
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 108 Many Happy ReturnsWe're getting visitors from the past both recent and and a bit more distant in this week's TNGs. First up, Wesley Crusher comes back from the academy JUST in time to save the ship from a nefarious alien brainwashing plot in "The Game". After that, a two-parter requires two guests in the form of Sarek and Spock in the fan-wankular "Unification" (also Sela is there).
Also this week: Chris wants another writer to face justice, something is missing from the dump, and Perrin's special technique.
Also also: MINOR "Star Trek Beyond" spoilers from 45:15 - 45:16 and we ruin the plot of "...
2018-11-291h 18
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 105 DoppelbangerIt's a whopper this week, as for the first time ever SSHB covers both proper "Star Trek" episodes AND a related-but-not-proper-"Trek" thing outside of a Ten Forward!
First up, we're wrapping season 4 and starting 5 with the two-part "Redemption"! Seeds have been laid for ages now and they're all sprouting schemes to maneuver the Duras family and their Romulan allies into positions of power! After that: the adult film parody of TNG, only edited for YouTube! How does it stand up without its raison d'être? You'll have to listen to find out!
Also this week: too many plots, mixed m...
2018-11-081h 54
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 99 SearchingThe hunt is on this week in A Star to Steer Her By! First up, something seems suspicious after the crew is unconscious for supposedly only thirty seconds and Picard goes looking for answers in "Clues". After that, Riker's gone missing on a world on the brink of its first warp flight and he has to be found before local Doctors get all autopsy-happy in "First Contact".
Also this week: a premature opening, TV of the 90s, and basic cat anatomy!
Timestamps: synopses: 1:38; Clues: 12:04; First Contact: 38:14
2018-09-271h 12
A Star to Steer Her ByTen Forward 09 Tales From the Holodeck IIIt's SSHB's 2nd anniversary, more-or-less, and in celebration we're bringing you our 2nd fanfic episode featuring figures from 2 major sci-fi franchises! (Harvey Dent would be ALL OVER THIS if he was real). What happens when your stalwarts are forced to bring "Star Trek" and "Star Wars" together into a big, meaty lump of ludicrous? Probably much what you'd expect from us, really...
Spoiler Warning: Major "The Last Jedi" spoilers. For real, we ruin basically all of it
Timestamps: "The Solo Algorithm" by Ames: 4:19; "The Day the Nerds Stood Still" by Caitlin: 19:31; "Toast and Circuses" by Jake: 29:51; "The Last Program" by...
2018-09-061h 16
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 91 Menage a TrekFor the first time since TAS we're hitting three episodes of "Star Trek"! This time, an old face returns to remind us that no one is immune from the ravages of time in "Sarek". After that, a Ferengi has eyes only for Lwaxana Troi but kidnaps her, Deanna, AND Riker for some reason in "Menage a Troi". Lastly, in an episode so bad we barely discuss it, that's not how evolution works but it does in "Transfigurations".
Also this week: a question of coffee ownership, Mr. Homn's berry skills, and sex & violins.
Timestamps: synopses: 2:01; Sarek: 10:47; Menage a Troi: 36:14; Transfigurations: 50:05
2018-07-261h 13
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 85 Ramblown OpportunityInternal strife and allegories abound this week on SSHB! First up, “Star Trek” does its own take on “Rambo” in “The Hunted”. After that, an attempt to do “The Troubles” but in space falls short when one side is made obviously far more sympathetic than the other in "The High Ground".
Also this week: anti-mustache bias, Margaret Thatcher, and a long rant on real-world politics.
Timestamps: synopses: 1:42; The Hunted: 12:38; The High Ground: 34:21
2018-06-141h 07
A Star to Steer Her ByTen Forward 08 Solo A Star Wars StoryHere we go again! The House of Mouse has churned out their fourth “Star Wars” outing since buying the franchise from George “Darth Plaid” Lucas, and it seems to have been a fairly bad speedbump in their stewardship. With a well-covered change of directors, extensive reshoots, and VERY delayed marketing campaign, your stalwarts were going into this one very wary. What did we think of the origins – both literal and figurative – of Han Solo? Join us to find out!
Also this week: a big hello, failing women and POCs, and the prequels.
WARNING: assume if it’s “Star Wars” we’re going to spoil it...
2018-05-311h 40
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 77 Well That Was OffensiveIt’s kind of ableist and pretty anti-Irish, it’s this week’s episodes of “Star Trek: The Next Generation”! First up: the Pakleds are technology thieves that stymie Riker and kidnap Geordie while Picard is off getting his ticker serviced in “Samaritan Snare”. After that, come play Irish stereotype bingo and revel in a horrible conclusion in “Up the Long Ladder.”
Also this week: shuttle design griping, cloning conundrums, and a postcredit that is basically all toilets and poop, so you can’t say we didn’t warn you.
Timestamps: synopses: 1:44; Samaritan Snare: 7:23; Up the Long Ladder: 33:31
2018-04-051h 12
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 66 Riker's Stupid FacesThere are skeevy salesmen everywhere this week on “Star Trek: The Next Generation”! First up, an automated pitchman is putting the crew in danger in “The Arsenal of Freedom”. After that, drug dealers posing as physicians have an entire planet in their thrall in “Symbiosis”.
Also this week: Grandma Root, a “Wrath of Khan” reunion, and ranting about Reagan.
Content warning: brief mention of Tasha’s rape gangs
Timestamps: synopses: 2:49; The Arsenal of Freedom: 11:27; Symbiosis: 31:51
2018-01-181h 07
A Star to Steer Her ByTen Forward 06 The Last JediSPOILERS AHEAD! We take a break from our usual franchise to jump on the “Star Wars” bandwagon and talk “The Last Jedi”! It’s about as divisive amongst your stalwarts as it is general audiences, and we’ve another guest along for the ride to offer their opinion, as well!
Also this week: subverting expectations; 15 ½ people, a toothpick, and a canoe; and where the hell is Lando?
Seriously, tho, spoilers for the entire “Star Wars” film franchise, not just “Last Jedi”. The only thing that’s safe is the “Clone Wars” series and “Rebels”, as none of us have seen them.
[also, yes, Chris realize...
2018-01-041h 36
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 64 TangentialHopefully you weren't looking for in-depth "Star Trek" chat from this "Star Trek" podcast, since this week the episodes become jumping-off points for just about anything else. First up, the opening of "When the Bough Breaks" has us talking schooling and old computers, followed by a treatise on farming brought on by "Home Soil".
Also this week: cursive and Rick Berman are both pointless, the "Enterprise" help desk, and environmental impact on reproduction.
Timestamps: synopses: 0:47; When the Bough Breaks: 10:16; Home Soil: 37:26
2017-12-281h 12
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 57 Back To The 60sAfter "Encounter at Farpoint" established the new world of TNG, things take a decidedly unoriginal step backwards this week. "The Naked Now" is a sequel/rehash of the TOS classic "The Naked Time," only without any of the fun and lazier writing. After that, Tasha Yar is kidnapped by a man who would make her his bride in the deeply uncomfortable "Code of Honor," which also has shades of "Amok Time" and any of the TOS resource plots.
Also this week: Riley v. Wesley, Data's workings, and toxic fandom.
Content warning: the first of what will unfortunately be several episodes...
2017-11-091h 21
A Star to Steer Her ByTen Forward 05 Galaxy QuestBy Grabthar's hammer...what a movie! It's time for us to talk "Galaxy Quest," the definitive love letter to/paraody of "Star Trek"! Jason Nesmith, the washed-up, Shatner-esque lead of sci-fi series "Galaxy Quest" is unwittingly tasked by actual aliens who have based their entire society on his series to save their species from a genocidal alien warlord. He ropes his former castmates in, but they soon find that there's rather a big difference between playing and being space heroes. Boasting an impressive cast and a damn-near perfect script, "Galaxy Quest" has become a must-see for any "Trek" fan.
Also...
2017-10-261h 11
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 55 Pithy Shakespeare Quote TitleIt's the end of an era, as "Trek" wraps the last collective outing of the TOS crew and the Klingon/Cold War metaphor all at once in "Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country." The Klingon Empire is about to collapse, and a hasty peace summit is arranged. But old habits die hard, and folks on both sides of the aisle are terrified of what peace may mean...
Also this week: Chancellor Gherkin, racism everywhere, and geKNEEtals.
[content warning: discussion of the non-consensual mind meld/assault]
2017-10-191h 27
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 54 What Does God Need With A Podcast?Gather 'round the campfire and settle in for what has become the most infamous of the TOS "Trek" films: "Star Trek V: The Final Frontier." It's a series of idiotic events as Starfleet decides that a barely-functional "Enterprise"-A should be sent to save hostages from Spock's previously-secret half-brother who eventually reveals he just really wants to meet God.
Also this week: marshmellons, trying to fix five, and Chris's favorite story.
2017-10-121h 26
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 53 The One With The WhalesHello, computer! Order a Michelob and settle in, it's time for "Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home"! In a plot that would seem heavy-handed if it weren't so darn fun, Kirk and Co. have to bop back in time to bring some humpback whales to the future to get a mysterious alien probe to stop having a tantrum that could destroy the Earth!
Also this week: paradoxes, pigeon murder, and horses becoming tornadoes!
2017-10-051h 25
A Star to Steer Her ByTen Forward 04 Discovery Premiere"Star Trek" is back! Well, maybe it is, depending on your definition. While we won't be covering the whole thing live, we're taking a break from our regularly scheduled programming this week to give our first impressions on "The Vulcan Hello" and "Battle at the Binary Stars"! Spoilers everywhere, as we're assuming you've watched them. If not, please come back as soon as you have!
Also this week: new (regrettable) streaming platforms, new Vulcan BS, and new Klingons!
[note: if you don't want to listen to us moan about CBS All-Access, that bit goes from 2:55 to 9:21]
2017-09-281h 08
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 52 Spock's MarblesBrain and brain what is brain?! Well, this time it's gone from physical media to digital downloads, as Spock has made Bones into an unwitting Johnny Mnemonic so Paramount can undo the end of "Khan" in "Star Trek III: The Search for Spock."
Also this week: headcannons, proving Caitlin's fic, and unearned pathos.
2017-09-211h 17
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 50 The Return Of Koenig"The Animated Series" is finally over, time to dive into the films! Unfortunately we have to start with "The Motion Picture," which was brought to you by confused Paramount executives desperate for their own "Star Wars," but turns out more like a dumbed-down "2001" that really, REALLY needed another go in the editing bay.
Also this week: terrible uniforms, changing hair, and what could have been.
Also also: this episode is the one going up closest to our One Year Anniversary! Thank you to everyone that has been listening, whether you arrived from Episode 1 or only joined us recently! Here's to...
2017-09-071h 36
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 42 The (Barely) Animated SeriesAnd so the next phase of SSHB begins! Unfortunately we're off to an inauspicious start, as The Animated Series presents us with animation that might actually be WORSE than we were expecting, a plot that was stale by the time TOS ended with "Beyond the Farthest Star," and a time-travel story that makes no sense even by "Trek" standards in "Yesteryear."
Also this week: the debut of our CLOSING theme, taken from the same public domain recording of Debussy's "La Mer" by the US Air Force Band that you, too, can find at musopen.org.
Timestamps: synopses: 3:13; intro to Filmation: 12:42...
2017-07-0658 min
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 34 Smug D - Bags And Bad PunsBig content warning right up front with this one: the whole plot of "Plato's Stepchildren" revolves around these superpowered aliens who have the ability to use "Enterprise" crew-folks as their puppets, forcing them into sadistic little acts and games very much against their will. So, yeah. It's uncomfortable, that one. Meanwhile, "Wink of an Eye" is basically a harmless case of "good idea executed badly."
Also this week: an excellent guest star, a shocking resolution, and more dialogue titles.
synopses: 2:52; Plato's Stepchildren: 15:08; Wink of an Eye: 38:38
2017-05-0459 min
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 30 Touch Of A VulcanEveryone's ready to get down with someone this week on SSHB! First up, "Trek" introduces us to our first female ship commander in "The Enterprise Incident," only to undercut its own progressiveness by having her spend most of her screentime being SUPER thirsty for Spock. After that, Kirk winds up with amnesia in "The Paradise Syndrome" and forgets everything about himself except how much he enjoys sex with people he meets while exploring.
Also this week: Jake introduces us to his oddest self yet, we have a big old Romulan love-in, and we learn to never criticize one of Ames's...
2017-04-061h 17
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 02 Pilot SeasonThe project proper begins as Caitlin, Ames, Jake, and Chris tackle the two "Star Trek" pilots, "The Cage" and "Where No Man Has Gone Before"! Can Captain Pike overcome both the Talosians AND his existential crisis? Can Captain Kirk get through his first appearance without ripping his shirt? Can Gary Mitchell see a damn thing? All this and more on "A Star to Steer Her By"!
Content warning: adult language and humor.
Timestamps: pilot talk: 1:10; The Cage: 7:09; Where No Man Has Gone Before: 32:38
2016-09-151h 15
A Star to Steer Her ByEpisode 01 Command Golden AnniversaryIn "A Star to Steer Her By," hosts Chris, Jake, Caitlin and Ames intend to sit down and discuss every episode/movie from the "Star Trek" franchise. But before that, meet them in this introductory episode that also serves as a 50th Anniversary celebration episode.
Explicit content warning: adult language/humor, sexual themes, and a brief discussion of rape.
2016-09-081h 01