316 - Don's Away Mission with Author Ray Tabler

How to Make Sci-Fi Funny | Ray Tabler on Space Opera & Interstellar BartendingAuthor Ray Tabler joins No Win Scenario Presents: Don’s Away Mission to discuss comedy in science fiction, space opera, the writing process, and his upcoming novel Smitty’s Guide to Interstellar Bartending.Ray talks with Don Schechter about how humor can make science fiction more engaging, how comedy works on the page, and why balancing jokes with plot, character, and high-stakes storytelling requires both craft and instinct. The conversation explores Ray’s transition from engineering to novel writing, his creative process, and the challenge of knowing when a joke works.They also discuss influences including Starship Troopers and Monty Python, the role of entertainment and message in science fiction, WorldCon, the sci-fi writing community, and why humor can be a powerful way to explore societal progress, technological reinvention, and the strange future we may be building.No Win Scenario is your portal into the universe of science fiction entertainment. Join Don and Trevor as they debate varied viewpoints and dissect beloved narratives. Engaging with industry insiders, they delve into the everyday realities of production and highlight the growing importance of mental health awareness in the film and television industry.Podcast: No Win Scenario Presents: Don’s Away MissionEpisode Number: 316Duration: 28:56Host: Don SchechterGuest: Ray TablerWebsite: https://www.nowinscenariopodcast.comDon says: Order the Ascendants novel: https://ascendantsbook.com/Trevor says: Watch Front Row Reactions https://www.youtube.com/@frontrowreactionsEmail: [email protected] No Win Scenario on X: @nowinscenarioFollow No Win Scenario on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61551025621867TikTok: @NoWinScenarioPodcastSubscribe on your favorite platform.Mental Health Crisis ResourcesIn the US: Call or text 988Online: https://988lifeline.org©2026 Charles River Mediahttps://www.CharlesRiverMedia.com