Star Trek: Deep Space Nine
The Orb 137: A Disturbance in the Link
“The Search, Part II.” We discuss the introduction of the Great Link, the quiet threat of the Dominion, the slowly unfolding absurdity of the Founders’ simulation, and the importance of this episode to Odo’s character development over the course of the series.
The Orb 136: Shift in Tone
“The Search, Part I.” We discuss how the arrival of a cloaked starship named Defiant, a new path for Odo, and a growing feeling of family to kick off Season 3 signaled a change which would send ripples through DS9’s storytelling.
The Orb 135: Listening for Personal Gain
Martus Mazer and El-Aurians. We revisit the only appearance of El-Aurians on DS9 and discuss how the original idea would have made Martus Guinan’s wayward son. We also explore the concept of El-Aurians in general and how the three we've spent time with use their skills as listeners.
The Orb 134: Coffee in the Afternoon
“Armageddon Game.” We discuss the Miles/Jules relationship, the O'Brien's marriage, the original concept for the episode, and the story's warning that is even more relevant in today's world.
The Orb 133: We All Put Our Faith in Something
The Emissary’s prophecies. We discuss the events of “Rapture” as we explore the role of faith and spirituality in Deep Space Nine, Roddenberry's vision of the future and how religion has been portrayed throughout Star Trek.
The Orb 132: The Longevity of Memories
“Blood Oath” and Trill obligations. We discuss how joined Trill cope with memories that span multiple lifetimes as well as the choice to bring back three of Kirk’s most famous Klingon antagonists and how DS9 pays homage to The Original Series.
The Orb 131: No Easy Answers
"The Way of the Warrior," Part 2. We discuss the insidious nature of the Changeling threat, the tough choices faced by Sisko and the Federation, how DS9 offers rich character development amid bigger storylines, Worf finding a new path for himself aboard the station.
The Orb 130: Perfect Storm of Wonderfulness
“The Way of the Warrior,” Part 1. We discuss DS9’s fourth season premiere and what amount to a soft reboot of sorts—one that would propel the series to become what many consider the most complex and interesting installment in the franchise.
The Orb 129: Hitting the Pause Button
“The Sound of Her Voice” and the need for quiet episodes. We discuss why, to advance the narrative, it is sometimes necessary to hit the pause button and reflect, and why doing so is an effective way to punctuate the theme.
The Orb 128: Not Impossible, Just Highly Improbable
”Rivals” commentary. We discuss the genesis of the bromance between Miles and Jules, as well as an attempt to out-con Quark.
The Orb 127: True IDIC and Finding Common Ground
Why DS9 endures. We discuss the reasons we love Deep Space Nine and never tire of rewatching the series, and how the setting challenges the residents of the station to embrace diversity and find common ground in a way that no other Star Trek series does.
Interphase 3: The Iliad vs. The Odyssey
Lower Decks pre-launch speculation. We share our expectations for the first Star Trek animated series since 1974 and whether the franchise is the right platform for a true comedy.