Jimmy Akin Podcast (Secrets of Star Trek)

The climactic moment! Dom Bettinelli, Jimmy Akin, and Fr. Jason Tyler discuss the big showdown with Ascensia featuring an obvious trap and a dangerous Loom as well as heroic sacrifice, cunning deception, and the possibilities of redemption.

Direct download: SST332.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 4:00pm PDT

We save everyone. Dom Bettinellli, Jimmy Akin, and Fr. Jason Tyler discuss this Prodigy episode, includng Wesley's self-sacrifice, how Gwyn and Dal are both maturing; and how Asencia and Ilthurian's future characters are shaped by their environment and choices.

Direct download: SST331.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 4:00pm PDT

Face the Incursor! Dom Bettinelli, Jimmy Akin, and Fr. Jason Tyler discuss the two-part showdown between our heroes and Asencia's time technology, including Dal and Gwyn's growing maturity; Gwyn's evolving sense of home; and individual heroism and self-sacrifice.

Direct download: SST330.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 4:00pm PDT

Through the lookingglass. Dom Bettinelli, Jimmy Akin, and Fr. Jason Tyler discuss the latest Prodigy episode which takes the crew through alternate realities, including the Mirror Universe, where they get to see if Mirror Janeway retains any good in her from Prime Janeway.

Direct download: SST329.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 4:00pm PDT

Tribbles are a favorite plot element in modern Star Trek. Dom Bettinelli, Jimmy Akin, and Fr. Jason Tyler discuss their latest appearance; their changes in this story; and what makes the Klingon disdain for them so interesting.

Direct download: SST328.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 4:00pm PDT

Castaway Chakotay! Dom Bettinelli, Jimmy Akin, and Fr. Jason Tyler discuss the return of the former Voyager first officer; new depths to his backstory; heroic leadership; hints of faith; and the maturation of Dal.

Direct download: SST327.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 4:00pm PDT

This two-parter kicks the plot into gear and Dom Bettinelli, Jimmy Akin, and Fr. Jason Tyler discuss how the story is a straight-up homage to Doctor Who with some elements of the Langoliers and Avengers: Endgame thrown in.

Direct download: SST326.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 4:00pm PDT

A non-corporeal being gets embodied. Dom Bettinelli, Jimmy Akin, and Fr. Jason Tyler discuss the philosophical implications and how the writers may have untintentionally said something important about bodily integrity.

Direct download: SST325.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 4:00pm PDT

Pog-racing! Dom Bettinelli, Jimmy Akin, and Fr. Jason Tyler discuss this episode of Prodigy, the crew's sidetrack into a race; Zero's self-sacrifice; and speculation as to what could stop time on Voyager.

Direct download: SST324.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 1:11pm PDT

Beware the imPOGster! Dom Bettinelli, Jimmy Akin, and Fr. Jason Tyler discuss this episode of Prodigy where the crew creates faulty holo-doubles in order to start their rescue mission and hijinks ensue.

Direct download: SST323.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 4:00pm PDT

Who is Murf really? Dom Bettinelli, Jimmy Akin, and Fr. Jason Tyler discuss this next episode Prodigy and the mystery surrounding the alien Murf and t he unknown entity trying to communicate through him.

Direct download: SST322.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 4:00pm PDT

The basics of time travel. Dom Bettinelli, Jimmy Akin, and Fr. Jason Tyler discuss the next episode of Prodigy; the ways the show keeps subverting the expected story path; and the themes of loyalty and friendship the show conveys.

Direct download: SST321.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 4:00pm PDT

Time paradox. Dom Bettinelli, Jimmy Akin, and Fr. Jason Tyler discuss the 2nd episode of Prodigy season 2 and the future changes that affect the present, plus the clash of fear vs. hope.

Direct download: SST320.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 11:53am PDT

Prodigy season 2 begins! Dom Bettinelli, Jimmy Akin, and Fr. Jason Tyler discuss the return of the Protostar crew, now a part of the new Voyager crew under Admiral Janeway, including the nuances of plot and character that elevate this above a simple children's cartoon.

Direct download: SST319.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 12:28pm PDT

Upgrade gone wrong! Dom Bettinelli, Jimmy Akin, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss the unusual Bynar race, Riker's cringeworthy "relationship" with Minuet; and the theme of overreliance on technology. Plus a farewell to a friend.

Direct download: SST318.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 12:00pm PDT

The Kelvin reboot of Star Trek gave fans alternate versions of their favorite characters. Dom Bettinelli, Jimmy Akin, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss the movie, the decision to make it an alt-history reboot, and what they like and dislike about the changes.

Direct download: SST317.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 12:00pm PDT

Khan! Dom Bettinelli and Jimmy Akin discuss the introduction Khan Noonian Singh; his magnetic (and improbable?) ability to sway Marla McGivers; and Dr. McCoy's surprisingly cool response to Khan's threat of physical harm.

Direct download: SST316.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 12:00pm PDT

Did the writers take shore leave too? Dom Bettinelli, Jimmy Akin, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss this Enterprise entry which seemed to have all side plots and no main plot without any meaningful character or dramatic development. But Porthos was cute!

Direct download: SST315.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 12:00pm PDT

Inception for the Doctor. Dom Bettinelli and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss this dream-like episode focusing on the Doctor who is stuck in a dream-like state and must decide which reality is real and the Doctor's struggle with identity and conciousness.

Direct download: SST314.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 12:00pm PDT

When Quark, Nog, and Rom end up in 1947 Roswell, history takes a beating. Dom Bettinelli, Jimmy Akin, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss the change in Nog, similarities between 20th-century humans and Ferengi, and how this story pays homage to 1950s B movies.

Direct download: SST313.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 12:00pm PDT

The plot may not be unique, but Dom Bettinelli and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss how this story executes well and raises moral and ethical questions about obligations to our enemies and overcoming prejudices. Plus the introduction of the excellent Andreas Katsulas as Tomalak.

Direct download: SST312.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 12:00pm PDT

As the Enterprise crew gets shrunk to Lilliputian proportions, Dom Bettinelli, Jimmy Akin, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss the surprising metaphysical and theological implications, the practical and scientific discrepancies, and the character dynamics.

Direct download: SST311.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 12:00pm PDT

Spock and the Enterprise crew stick it to the Man, aka Kirk. Dom Bettinelli, Jimmy Akin, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss this TOS story that reminds us that there is no utopia outside of heaven; the call of duty; and the contaxt of 1960s counterculture.

Direct download: SST310.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 12:00pm PDT

Is one man's freedom fighter another man's terrorist? Dom Bettinelli, Jimmy Akin, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss this story of Enterrpise getting mixed up in some local conflicts on a desert planet; the ethical implications; and whether Zabral is a good guy or bad guy.

Direct download: SST309.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 12:00pm PDT

A homicidal hologram that hates people. Dom Bettinelli, Jimmy Akin, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss this psychological thriller of an emotionally fragile and homicidal alien hologram with a chilling intensity; as well as Harry Kim's cringeworthy attempted romance with Seven of Nine.

Direct download: SST308.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 12:00pm PDT

Be careful what you wish for! Dom Bettinelli and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss this story's themes of the power and danger of imagination and wish fulfilment; escapsm vs. creativity; the signficance of family on the show; and our need to critically assess the impact of fantasy.

Direct download: SST307.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 12:00pm PDT

A world where women are dominant and men are weak. Dom Bettinelli, Jimmy Akin, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss this 1st season TNG episode infamous for its cringe portrayal of a matriarchy and how it was supposed to be about the evils of apartheid.

Direct download: SST306.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 12:00pm PDT

The last of the TNG films is widely marked as the weakest. Dom Bettinelli, Jimmy Akin, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss th film's strengths and weaknesses and its themes of identity and the moral and ethical considerations of cloning and artificial sentience and more.

Direct download: SST305.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 12:00pm PDT

T'Pol's hero isn't what she seems. Dom Bettinelli, Jimmy Akin, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss the story's themes of trust, earned, broken, and granted; the clash of human and Vulcan values; and the glimpse of future human-Vulcan friendship.

Direct download: SST304.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 12:00pm PDT

A-koo-chee-moya! Dom Bettinelli, Jimmy Akin, and Dom Bettinelli discuss this Chakotay story featuring guest star Aron Eisenberg, including themes of fatherhood and cultural identity, as well as the missed narrative opportunities while praising the twist ending.

Direct download: SST303.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 12:00pm PDT

Up periscope! Dom Bettinelli, Jimmy Akin, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss this story of the USS Defiant in a submarine-like battle. They discuss Kyra's faith, Quark's business acumen, and Worf's leadership style as the crew fights to survive the Jem-Hadar and the environment.

Direct download: SST302.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 12:00pm PDT

Poor Geordi. Dom Bettinellli, Jimmy Akin, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss this TNG story that combines a ticking clock story with Geordi's awkward romantic track record and a strange holodeck encounter, plus discussion of AI in Trek and Picard's leadership.

Direct download: SST301.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 12:00pm PDT

To celebrate their 300th episode, Dom Bettinelli, Jimmy Akin, and Fr. Cory Sticha give their lists of the best episodes in each of the Star Trek series, from The Original Series to Strange New Worlds. The ones they agree on are predictable, but where do they disagree?

Direct download: SST300.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 12:00pm PDT

Mudd's back. Dom Bettinelli and Jimmy Akin discuss the animated return of con man Harry Mudd, inclluding the eyebrow-raising content for a kid's cartoon, the ethical problems of love potions and their portrayal in popular media, and why Rainn Wilson's Mudd may have been the best.

Direct download: SST299.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 12:00pm PDT

Death by computer. Dom Bettinelli, Jimmy Akin, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss this story's moral implications and real-world parallels with themes of war's human cost, technology's role in conflict, and ethical leadership. Plus Kirk killing another megalomaniacal computer.

Direct download: SST298.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 12:00pm PDT

Psychic goo alien! Dom Bettinellli, Jimmy Akin, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss the Enterprise's encounter with an unusual lifeform where they have to discern motive and morality and debate the ethics of extreme measures to save their crew.

Direct download: SST297.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 12:00pm PDT

Nullified! Dom Bettinelli, Jimmy Akin, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss this Chakotay story in all its weird alien word choice, its "don't judge a book by its cover" morale, and the themes of courage, indoctrination, and cross-cultural understanding.

Direct download: SST296.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 12:00pm PDT

Eminent domain! Dom Bettinelli, Jimmy Akin, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss DS9's "Progress," including themes of societal good vs. individual rights; the limits of governmental authority, and Kira's transition from rebel to government official and her ethical and moral dilemmas.

Direct download: SST295.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 12:00pm PDT

It was a dimly-lit, smoke-filled backroom where Dom Bettinelli, Jimmy Akin, and Fr. Cory Sticha crack open the case of "The Big Goodbye." In a tale as the stars, it's a classic yarn of crew trapped in a haywire holodeck with a twist right out of a 1940s pulp detective novel.

Direct download: SST294.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 12:00pm PDT

Twenty-five years after its release, Dom Bettinelli, Jimmy Akin, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss the highs and lows of this TNG movie, the ethical quandaries of forced relocation, and the allure of the fountain of youth, plus the humor and usual plot holes.

Direct download: SST293.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 12:00pm PDT

Are you of the Body? Jimmy Akin, Dom Bettinelli, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss this story of a computer-controlled society suppressing free will and individuality for peace and tranquility, including the religious allegory, the comparison to the Borg, and how the allure of a simpler life could lead to a loss of liberty.

Direct download: SST292.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 12:00pm PDT

Al! Jimmy Akin, Dom Bettinelli, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss the stunt casting of Dean Stockwell as a guest on this episode; the story's analogy to WW2 internment camps for Japanese-Americans; and challenging our stereotypes of others.

Direct download: SST291.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 12:00pm PDT

Meet your heroes! Jimmy Akin, Dom Bettinelli, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss this story that has Janeway meet her hero, Amelia Earhart, and other alien abductees. They also look at the show's aim to show the lost crew settling in together in the Delta quadrant.

Direct download: SST290.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 12:00pm PDT

Dax's past shows up. Jimmy Akin and Dom Bettinelli discuss this story of Trill taboos; the plot's predictability and manufactured controversy; the portrayal of Sisko as a good friend; and how the end mirrors the end of Casablanca.

Direct download: SST289.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 12:00pm PDT

Season finale! Jimmy Akin, Dom Bettinelli, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss this fun season ender that brings some great cameos, pays homage to the best Star Trek movie, and leaves us with a character cliffhanger. They als give their season 4 assessment.

Direct download: SST288.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 4:00pm PDT

What's going on with Mariner? Jimmy Akin, Dom Bettinelli, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss the self-destructiveness of Beckett and her surprising admission involving a TNG character, plus the return of another obscure TNG character.

Direct download: SST287.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 1:33pm PDT

Ever notice how many Star Trek episodes involve caves? So did the Lower Decks writers. Jimmy Akin and Dom Bettinelli discuss this not-a-clip show that pays homages and pokes fun at all those very similar-looking, flat-floored, prone-to-collapse caves in Trek.

Direct download: SST286.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 4:00pm PDT

Badgey returns! Jimmy Akin, Dom Bettinelli, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss this story of these three homocidal megalomaniacal AIs from previous stories and their redemption arcs through love and friendship.

Direct download: SST285.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 4:00pm PDT

Rom and Leeta! Jimmy Akin, Dom Bettinelli, and Fr. Cory Sticha dicsuss this story that brings Lower Decks to Ferenginar; brings back our favorite Ferengi-Bajoran couple; and makes Tendi and Rutherford confront their suppressed feelings for each other.

Direct download: SST284.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 1:40pm PDT

Emotional damage! Jimmy Akin, Dom Bettinelli, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss this T'Lyn-focused episode, discussing telepathic diseases, justified Betazoid paranoia, and how hard it is to memorize the periodic table of elements.

Direct download: SST283.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 12:00pm PDT

Time for a wedding! Jimmy Akin, Dom Bettinelli, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss Orion pirate weddings,the difference between Orion and Ferengi, and the custom of bridal kidnapping and why the Church frowns on it.

Direct download: SST282.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 5:00pm PDT

It's a civilization run by computer, but not in a bad way this time. Jimmy Akin, Dom Bettinelli, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss the principles of leadership, koalas in the afterlife, and the pros and cons of hazing, all as related to the latest Lower Decks episode.

Direct download: SST281.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 4:00pm PDT

Promotion repercussions! Dom Bettinelli and Jimmy Akin discuss this Lower Decks story where Mariner confronts a cute, but terrifying alien; Rutherford tries to get the promotion he deserves; Boimler looks for the right room, and Ensign Gary needs new pants.

Direct download: SST280.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 5:00pm PDT

Season 4 of Lower Decks opens with a love letter to Voyager. Dom Bettinelli and Jimmy Akin discuss this story that includes many, many deep cuts from Voyager, introduces a new season arc villain, and totally calls out Janeway as a murderer!

Direct download: SST279.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 4:00pm PDT

Tragedy, loss, and alien trickery. Jimmy Akin and Dom Bettinelli discuss this TNG story of loss and grief and what makes us human in dealing with the death of a loved one.

Direct download: SST278.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 4:00pm PDT

Back to the Shore Leave planet. Jimmy Akin, Dom Bettinelli, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss another Skynet-like computer gone rogue, sparking a man v. machine crisis, exploring themes of consciousness and Uhura's agency.

Direct download: SST277.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 4:00pm PDT

Should the needs of one man outweight the destiny of the future? Jimmy Akin, Dom Bettinelli, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss the first Trek time travel story, which confronts Kirk and crew with the dilemma of saving their future while navigating some funny Sixties military follies.

Direct download: SST276.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 4:00pm PDT

The Gorn are back! Jimmy Akin, Dom Bettinelli, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss the Strange New Worlds season finale cliffhanger, including parallels to the movie Alien; Pike as heroic leader; and the introduction of a familiar character; as well as an assessment of the whole season.

Direct download: SST275.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 5:00pm PDT

Why are they singing? Jimmy Akin, Dom Bettinelli, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss the musical episode of Strange New Worlds, which has divided fandom; whether the show should have gone even more into the device; and why the Klingons were the best part.

Direct download: SST274.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 4:00pm PDT

Jimmy Akin, Dom Bettinelli, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss this story focusing on war, forgiveness, and redemption, and they delve into the Christian view on forgiveness, mercy, and justice. They also discuss trauma in war and PTSD, how this story draws on past Trek episodes (and M*A*S*H!), but also breaks new ground for Trek for its raw portrayal of the effects of war.

Direct download: SST273.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 4:00pm PDT

Crossover! Jimmy Akin, Dom Bettinelli, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss the Lower Decks-Strange New Worlds crossover, how well it was executed, the surprising differences between the same characters in animation and live action, and the SNW crew getting to play comedy. Riker!

Direct download: SST272.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 1:00pm PDT

Spooky! Jimmy akin, Dom Bettinelli, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss this story in which Uhura is hearing voices, including what they think of Paul Wesley's Kirk so far, the rising stature of Uhura in the show, and the first meeting of Spock, Kirk, and Uhura.

Direct download: SST271.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 12:00pm PDT

More Vulcan hijinks! Jimmy Akin, Dom Bettinelli, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss another SNW story that Spock, T'Pring, and a weird biological swap, including problematic Vulcan speciesism, bureaucratic non-corporeal entities, and mutual self-sacrifice between Spock and Chapel.

Direct download: SST270.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 1:13pm PDT

Another Kirk. Jimmy Akin, Dom Bettinelli, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss this time travel story that sees a younger Kirk from an alternate timeline team up with La'an and struggle with the question of which timeline should remain.

Direct download: SST268.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 1:00pm PDT

Court martial! Jimmy Akin, Dom Bettinelli, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss the trial of Number One and the issues raised about historical injustice, respect for cultures, and persecution, plus favorite callbacks to other series and previous SNW episodes. 

Direct download: SST267.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 1:00pm PDT

The second season of Strange New Worlds comes roaring out of the gate! Jimmy Akin, Dom Bettinelli, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss the first episode, including the evolution of Spock, the M'Benga revelations, and the new chief engineer, Pellia. Plus a tribute to Nichelle Nichols.
Direct download: SST266.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 12:00pm PDT

Ghosts or something else? Jimmy Akin and Dom Bettinelli discuss this Enterprise story that finds Trip flirting with aliens again; learn that Vulcans don't get the creeps; and talk about the superiority of reality to comforting illusion.

Direct download: SST265.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 4:00pm PDT

Maquis and Starfleet clash! Jimmy Akin, Dom Bettinelli, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss this Voyager episode that explores the nature of leadership, loyalty, and duty in an idealistic profession for those who never sought it out.

Direct download: SST264.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 4:00pm PDT

Who lives? Who dies? O'Brien tells your story! Dom Bettinelli, Fr. Cory Sticha, and Jimmy Akin discuss this story inspired by "The Man Who Would Be King" and whose theme is that sometimes we make our own monsters to defeat them and feel secure.

Direct download: SST263.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 4:00pm PDT

Love and Duty! Dom Bettinelli and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss the TNG episode "Haven" and its themes of duty, love, compassion, destiny, and cultural differences, while not missing the Trek debut of Lwaxana Troi and the comedic chaos she brings.

Direct download: SST262.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 4:00pm PDT

Before Picard Season 3, there was First Contact and the Borg Queen. Jimmy Akin, Dom Bettinelli, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss the film's "never meet your heroes" theme; Picard's ongoing trauma; and what makes this movie one of the most popular Trek films.

Direct download: SST261.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 4:00pm PDT

Jekyll and Hyde? Jimmy Akin, Dom Bettinelli, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss this Original Series story featuring Lazarus, a man obsessed with his alternate reality self who will go to any length to destroy him, and his doppelgänger who is willing to sacrifice his life for the universe.

Direct download: SST260.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 4:00pm PDT

Star Trek Picard and the TNG era have come to a close. Jimmy Akin, Dom Bettinelli, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss the series finale, whether it stuck the landing, the theme of fatherhood and vocation, and where Star Trek goes from here.

Direct download: SST258.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 4:00pm PDT

The D is back! Dom Bettinelli and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss the penultimate episode of Star Trek Picard, including the implications of Puer Dei and Vox; the return of a familiar ship, and the disappointing departure of a particular character.

Direct download: SST257.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 4:00pm PDT

What is necessary in healing from grief? Dom Bettinellli and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss the latest Picard episode, including grief and healing; how love is at the core of identity; and the everchanging theories for what's really going on. Plus what's next for Star Trek?

Direct download: SST256.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 4:00pm PDT

Big revelations and cameos! Jimmy Akin, Dom Bettinelli, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss what more we've learned about the story so far, including morally questionable and objectionable actions, plus another hgh profile cameo in this week's Picard.

Direct download: SST255.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 4:00pm PDT

The gang is all here. Jimmy Akin, Dom Bettinelli, and Fr. Cory Sticha note that the whole TNG crew is now assembled in Picard and then geek over the ships and discuss all the Easter eggs and fan service as the show prepares for the final stretch.

Direct download: SST254.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 4:00pm PDT

The surprise return of a TNG character gives Jimmy Akin, Dom Bettinelli, and Fr. Cory Sticha lots to discuss, plus the evolution of Changelings, Vulcan criminals, and how adherence to duty is not a substitute for morality.

Direct download: SST253.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 4:00pm PDT

Riker is going through a existential crisis. Jimmy Akin, Dom Bettinelli, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss Riker's despair, the afterlife, and how Picard and Shaw man up, put aside their differences, and get to work. Is this one of the best Star Trek episodes ever?

Direct download: SST252.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 4:00pm PDT

The longest 17 seconds of your life! Jimmy Akin, Dom Bettinelli, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss the latest episode of Picard, including themes of fatherhood and family; good cop/bad cop Worf; and the return of an old foe in a new form.

Direct download: SST251.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 1:02pm PDT

Is it just a reboot of Wrath of Khan? Jimmy Akin, Dom Bettinelli, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss the second episode of Picard, season 3, including the similarities to a particular Trek movie, scene-chewing villains, and the bigger than life return of another TNG favorite.

Direct download: SST250.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 4:00pm PDT

Season 3 of Picard is here and Jimmy Akin, Dom Bettinelli, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss what's good and maybe not as good, including what makes this season different from the first two so far and what they expect from the rest of the season.

Direct download: SST249.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 1:01pm PDT

Moriarty is another familiar face in Picard, Season 2, so Jimmy Akin, Dom Bettinelli, and Fr. Cory Sticha revisit his last episode on TNG and consider the limits of AI and holograms and Sherlock Holmes' greatest foe.

Direct download: SST248.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 4:00pm PDT

Data's brother, Lore, will play a role in Picard season 3, so Dom Bettinelli, Jimmy Akin, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss Lore's first appearance on TNG and the initial setup of his antagonism and personality.

Direct download: SST247.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 4:00pm PDT

Ferengi who? Jimmy Akin, Dom Bettinelli, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss this Trek veteran-laden story that sees the Ferengi show up long before Farpoint in a Die Hard-style battle of wits with the Enterprise crew.

Direct download: SST246.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 4:00pm PDT

How do you forgive someone who has something so evil? Jimmy Akin, Dom Bettinelli, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss this story that sees Neelix struggle with forgiveness for someone who has done much evil to him and in general and now appears repentant.

Direct download: SST245.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 4:00pm PDT

Humanizing the monster. Dom Bettinelli and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss this DS9 episode where Kira is confronted with a humanized view of Gul Dukat, a man who did unspeakable evil to her people and the idea of setting aside old wounds for a common good.

Direct download: SST244.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 4:00pm PDT

Prime directive! Jimmy Akin, Dom Bettinelli, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss this story of the advanced alien species being mistaken for gods. What are the ethics of the Prime Directive? Does Picard go too far in what he says about religious belief?

Direct download: SST243.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 4:00pm PDT

Prodigy season 1 has ended and Jimmy Akin, Dom Bettinelli, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss the season finale, where the next season might go, and their thoughts on Prodigy as a whole.

Direct download: SST242.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 4:00pm PDT

With the penultimate episode of Prodigy's first season, Jimmy Akin, Dom Bettinelli, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss the story's willingness to leave no easy way out for the heroes and appreciate the deep cuts from Tek lore.

Direct download: SST241.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 4:00pm PDT

Freaky Friday! Jimmy Akin, Dom Bettinelli, and Fr. Cory Sticha talk about this story which features the classic body swap trope and Kate Mulgrew's performance in essentially three roles in this story, plus how the writers have dealt with the twisted plot threads.

Direct download: SST240.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 4:00pm PDT

What could have been a Star Trek trope becomes a compelling twist. Jimmy Akin, Dom Bettinelli, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss this holodeck episode that undermines our expectations and presents a conundrum for the crew, another layer of betrayal. Who can they trust?

Direct download: SST239.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 4:00pm PDT

Revealed! Jimmy Akin, Dom Bettinelli, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss the latest episode of Prodigy, which provides new backstories for Rok-Tahk, Zero, Jankom Pog, and the Diviner's race, plus what happened to Capt. Chakotay.

Direct download: SST238.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 4:00pm PDT

Be yourself. Jimmy Akin, Dom Bettinelli, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss the latest episode of Prodigy, including its message of self-care and being happy with you are created to be, plus the surprise reveals about several characters and Okona's outrageous behavior.

Direct download: SST237.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 12:12pm PDT

Outrageous! Jimmy Akin, Dom Bettinelli, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss the Protostar crew's much-anticipated encounter with Admiral Janeway and her crew that goes horribly wrong and their escape with the help of Thadium Okona, aka the Outrageous Okona.

Direct download: SST236.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 11:59am PDT

Beware the Gallow! Jimmy Akin, Dom Bettinelli, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss the latest episode of Prodigy, in which a primitive society has structured itself around its garbled knowledge of the James T. Kirk's Enterprise and the Protostar crew has to help them.

Direct download: SST235.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 12:19pm PDT

Resistance is NOT futile. Jimmy Akin, Dom Bettinelli, and Fr. Cory Sticha discuss the latest episode of Prodigy, in which the crew encounters a Borg cube and hope it offers a solution to their problem without making a worse, new one.

Direct download: SST234.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 1:05pm PDT

Prodigy is back! Jimmy Akin and Dom Bettinelli discuss the the return of Prodigy and the crew of the Protostar, including the emphasis on action and the return of biological Janeway in addition to her holographic counterpart.

Direct download: SST233.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 9:00pm PDT

California vs. Texas! Jimmy Akin and Dom Bettinelli discuss the season finale of Lower Decks, season 3; it's slightly more serious tone, the state rivalry mined for comedic effect, and the maturation of some of the characters.

Direct download: SST232.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 11:27am PDT

Lower Decks tells us not to trust the media. Jimmy Akin, Dom Bettinelli, and Fr. Cory Sticha also discuss the story's subtext of a parent having to change how she sees her child, plus the great callback to a TNG episode and a set up for the season finale.

Direct download: SST231.mp3
Category:Secrets of Star Trek -- posted at: 12:31pm PDT