Hailing Frequencies Open Podcast

Damian, Lanita, and Mike dive into Legacy Returns, the latest installment from Trek Shorts from Power 543 Fan Films and friend of the pod, Samuel Cockings. From performances and production value to story choices and deep-cut Trek references, nothing is off-limits in this full breakdown review. The crew shares what worked, what surprised them, and where the film lands in the ever-growing world of fan-made Star Trek. Expect sharp insights, a few laughs, and some honest takes as they explore how Legacy Returns carries the torch of Trek storytelling. See Legacy Returns Here: https://youtu.be/WzmJN_XQpEU?si=1jMAsL_tjl7ZqOwE  Support us: https://ko-fi.com/hailingfreqopen 

This week, we're diving into the world of Star Trek fan films with filmmaker Samuel Cockings, the creative force behind Trek Shorts. Known for turning limitations into cinematic strengths, Samuel shares how he built a loyal following through interconnected storytelling, innovative visual effects, and a deep love of Trek. We talk about the realities of indie filmmaking in the Star Trek universe, the challenges of working within fan film guidelines, and how Trek Shorts manages to feel both nostalgic and fresh. Plus, Samuel gives us insight into his creative process, lessons learned along the way, and all about their kickstarter!   Support Short Treks: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/2015270242/trek-shorts-2026-the-big-one Support Us: https://ko-fi.com/hailingfreqopen 

Hop in the ARGO as we continue our "Lanita Watches Trek for the First Time" series with a no-holds-barred review of Star Trek: Nemesis—and let's just say… we have thoughts. A lot of them. Joined by guest co-host Leigh Ellen, we break down everything from questionable plot choices and missed character opportunities to the chaotic energy of Shinzon and that very intense final act. For Lanita, it's a first-time voyage into one of Trek's most divisive films—and her reactions do not disappoint. Expect laughs, hot takes, and a healthy amount of "wait…why did they do that?" as we dig into what works, what really doesn't, and whether Nemesis deserves its reputation… or a second look. Support us: https://ko-fi.com/hailingfreqopen 

This week, we go full warp into the world of on-screen transformation with Emmy-level hair wizard Ryan Reed—the creative force behind the iconic looks of Star Trek: Discovery, Star Trek: Section 31, and Star Trek: Starfleet Academy. From designing bold new alien aesthetics to shaping deeply intentional character arcs through hair, Ryan pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to run a department on a massive franchise. We get into the artistry, the chaos, and yes—the occasional "that wasn't my decision" moments 👀. We dive into: The collaborative (and sometimes complicated) process between designers, producers, and actors Crafting culturally authentic and story-driven hairstyles—especially for Black characters and textured hair The evolution of Burnham's hair (and why those braids mattered) Building unique looks for Klingons, cadets, and brand-new alien species The technical magic behind wigs, prosthetics, and continuity (spoiler: it's a LOT of work) Why hair is never "just hair"—it's storytelling Plus, Ryan shares how Michelle Yeoh helped shape her own look, how younger casts bring new creative freedom, and why background aliens deserve just as much love as the leads. This episode is a love letter to the unsung artistry behind the scenes—and proof that in Star Trek, every strand has a story. https://www.ryanreedhair.com/  Support Us at: https://ko-fi.com/hailingfreqopen

In this special recap episode, we gather a full roundtable of friends, collaborators, and Star Trek superfans to break down everything that went down in Season 1 of Star Trek: Starfleet Academy. Joining us are Alex from Deosil Designs, Anna Rozay, Jodi from Clonestar, Leigh Ellen, Austin, Jackson, and Matthew Jennings from 1701: A Blerd Story—and no topic is off-limits. From standout cadets and faculty drama to the season's biggest twists, themes, and surprises, we dig into what worked, what didn't, and what we're hoping to see in Season 2. Along the way, expect passionate debates, hot takes, and plenty of laughs as we explore how this new series fits into the ever-expanding Star Trek universe. Was Season 1 a promising new chapter for the franchise? Which characters stole the spotlight? And what lessons did Starfleet Academy really teach us? Support us at https://ko-fi.com/hailingfreqopen  Guest info: Alex:  https://deosildesigns.com Anna: https://www.youtube.com/@ObservationLounge2  Austin: https://www.instagram.com/austinpsmith96/  Jackson: https://www.instagram.com/jacksonjuniper/  Jodi: https://linktr.ee/jodipickens  Leigh Ellen: https://www.instagram.com/leighellenm/  Matt: https://www.indiegogo.com/en/projects/mattjennings-10709363/1701-a-blerd-story 

Order in the court! ⚖️ This week we convene a very special session of Q's Court, where the fate of the Star Trek franchise hangs in the balance. Presiding over the chaos is our all-powerful judge, Honorable Judge Lanita Q Ward-Jones, with Austin dutifully serving as the bailiff and keeping the proceedings (somewhat) under control. Joining us for this cosmic courtroom debate are returning guests Anna Rozay and Jodi Pickens, who present their cases, along with Mike Jones & Damizon for who should take the captain's chair behind the scenes of Star Trek. The contenders? A powerhouse lineup of Trek talent: Terry Matalas Tawny Newsome & Mike McMahan Kirsten Beyer Jonathan Frakes Each candidate is put on trial as we debate their vision, past Trek contributions, and what kind of future they could chart for the franchise. From bold cinematic leadership to character-driven storytelling to chaotic comedy energy, we weigh the merits of each would-be steward of the Final Frontier. Arguments are made. Evidence is presented. Objections are (probably) ignored. And ultimately, Judge Lanita must decide who deserves to guide Star Trek into its next era. Court is now in session. 🖖

This week we're joined by writer and fandom historian Jackson Torii Bart for a deep dive into the origins of Kirk/Spock slash fiction and the larger history of fan-created slash. From mimeograph machines to modern fan archives, we unpack the creativity, resistance, community-building, and joy that fueled early slash writers—many of them women and queer fans carving out space in a media landscape that rarely reflected them. We also talk about the stigma slash faced, the evolution of fanfiction platforms, and why Kirk/Spock remains such a powerful pairing more than half a century later. It's a thoughtful, celebratory, and occasionally spicy conversation about fandom history, queer subtext, and the radical act of fans telling the stories they needed to see. 🖖 Support us: https://ko-fi.com/hailingfreqopen

This week, we're heading to the Briar Patch and asking the big question: is Star Trek: Insurrection the most underrated Star Trek film… or a 2 hour episode?  Lanita is back in the captain's chair for another first-time watch as we continue her journey through the Trek films — and this one comes with fountains of youth, space diplomacy drama, and some extremely questionable Federation ethics. 👀 Joining us  Lucy Blueskies, who brings big theatrical energy and sharp insight as we unpack this classic film.  Is it a rebellion? A midlife crisis? A pastoral fever dream in space? We debate it all — with laughs, hot takes, and plenty of love for the crew of the Enterprise-E. Strap in. Lower the sails. And maybe avoid the metaphasic radiation unless you're ready to glow up. ✨ Support us: https://ko-fi.com/hailingfreqopen  

Class is in session at Starfleet Academy—and we've got thoughts. This week, we're joined by friends of the pod Leigh Ellen and Alex to dig into the characters shaping Star Trek: Starfleet Academy, from the power players at the top to the cadets just beginning their Starfleet journeys. We break down leadership styles, messy brilliance, and the kind of character choices that tell you exactly what kind of future this show is building. On the command side, we unpack Chancellor Capt. Nahla Ake, F. Adm. Charles Vance, Lt. Cdr. Lura Thok, Cdr. Jett Reno, and the ever-iconic Doctor.   Then it's on to the cadets: Caleb Mir, Darem Reymi, Jay-Den Kraag, S.A.M., and Tarima Sadal. We talk chemistry, queer coding, and which of these future officers already feel destined for greatness… or chaos. It's a character-forward conversation full of speculation, affection, and a little side-eye—because if Starfleet Academy is about shaping the future, these people are the ones to watch. 🖖✨ Support Us: https://ko-fi.com/hailingfreqopen Alex's Shop: https://deosildesigns.com/  Col. Bree Fram for Congress: https://teambree.com/  David Gerrold's Go Fund Me: https://www.gofundme.com/f/david-gerrolds-health-and-leukemia-fundraiser 

In this episode, we're thrilled to welcome Jodi Pickens from the Clonestar Podcast for a thoughtful, wide-ranging conversation about storytelling, connection, and the power of asking the right questions. As a co-host with a deep background in storytelling, Jodi brings warmth, curiosity, and emotional intelligence to every exchange. She has a rare ability to put guests at ease while gently steering conversations toward what truly matters—uncovering the human stories behind the work.  Find Jodi at: https://bsky.app/profile/jodipickens.bsky.social Support us at: https://ko-fi.com/hailingfreqopen

We're thrilled to welcome Madot from Star Trek Khan: Zuri Washington! We discuss Zuri's introduction to the Star Trek universe, her career and lived experience as a Black woman working in Broadway and Hollywood today. Zuri speaks candidly about navigating the industry, finding her voice across stage and screen, and the realities—both challenging and rewarding—of building a sustainable, creative career in entertainment. We discuss representation, opportunity, resilience, and the importance of telling stories that reflect who we are and where we've been. This is an honest, inspiring conversation about artistry, identity, and perseverance—one that will resonate with creatives, Trek fans, and anyone interested in how the industry is evolving behind the scenes. More Info: https://zuriwashington.com/ Support us: https://ko-fi.com/hailingfreqopen 

As another year in the Final Frontier comes to a close, we're taking a moment to reflect on Star Trek in 2025—the highs, the surprises, the debates, and the moments that kept the fandom buzzing. From new episodes and familiar faces to the ever-evolving state of Trek on streaming, we look back at what worked, what challenged us, and what it all means for the franchise we love. Then, we set our phasers to the future and talk about what's coming in 2026. What do we know, what are we hoping for, and what questions are still out there? Join us for a thoughtful, fun, and very Trek-loving conversation about where we've been—and where Star Trek boldly goes next. If you enjoy the show and want to help keep us boldly going, please consider supporting us on Ko-fi. Every contribution helps us continue creating thoughtful, independent Star Trek content for the community. 🖖 https://ko-fi.com/hailingfreqopen

The Star Trek movie journey continues with one of the franchise's most talked-about entries: Star Trek: First Contact. For Episode 126, we're joined by special guest host Sonyl Nagale as Lanita watches the film for the very first time, continuing her path through the Star Trek movies as a true film virgin. With the Borg threatening humanity, Picard confronting his trauma, and the unforgettable Borg Queen making her chilling debut, we dig into what makes this film stand out—from its darker tone and action-forward energy to the character moments that still resonate decades later. Seeing it all through Lanita's fresh perspective sparks new conversations and a few surprises along the way. Does First Contact win her over, or is resistance still futile? Join us as we engage with one of Star Trek's most iconic cinematic chapters. Support us at: https://ko-fi.com/hailingfreqopen 

This week, Mike, Lanita, and Damian take a closer look at the hair of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds Season 3 — from Pike's gravity-defying pompadour to Chapel's sleek style and Una's impeccable updo. Joining the crew is stylist and Trek fan Anna Rozay, who helps unpack how the show's hairstyles reflect personality, rank, and the evolving aesthetic of the Enterprise. ✨ It's science fiction, style, and Starfleet swagger — all in one episode! https://www.instagram.com/anna_rozay  Support us at https://ko-fi.com/hailingfreqopen 

Halloween special! Mike, Lanita, and Damian beam into the history of Star Trek Halloween costumes—from the classic Ben Cooper era to the screen-accurate cosplay of today. Along the way, they take a fun trip down memory lane to share their own favorite (and sometimes embarrassing) Halloween memories. Images & Show Notes: https://hailingfrequenciesopen.wordpress.com/?p=2556 Support us at: https://ko-fi.com/hailingfreqopen 

This week, we're joined by Dr. Trek himself — Larry Nemecek, the ultimate Star Trek insider, historian, and fan ambassador. Together, we explore the roads not taken on Star Trek: The Next Generation.  Larry shares stories from decades of exploring the Final Frontier, from his early Trek research to behind-the-scenes tales of fandom, production, and the evolving legacy of Gene Roddenberry's universe. Whether you know him from Portal 47, The Trek Files, or the Star Trek: Stellar Cartography map collection, Larry brings a wealth of knowledge and heart to every conversation. Engage with us as we talk Trek past, present, and future with one of fandom's most beloved voices. https://larrynemecek.com/  Support us at ko-fi.com/hailingfreqopen   

Mike beams down with an Away Team report from the Trek to Orlando convention — sharing the best panels, cosplays, and Star Trek fan moments from the weekend. Then the crew looks back at the standout episodes, surprises, and unforgettable moments from Season 4 of Hailing Frequencies Open. ☕ Support us at ko-fi.com/hailingfreqopen

From the Star Trek Adventure at Universal Studios to The Star Trek Experience in Las Vegas, the franchise has a long and fascinating history with theme parks. This week, Mike, Damian, and Lanita explore that legacy and chat with Matthew Jennings from Star Trek: Red Alert at Universal Studios Hollywood's Fan Fest Nights. Matthew shares what it's like to bring Trek to life for fans in person—and how Starfleet found its place among the thrill rides. Mike Jone's Pitch for the theme park: https://hailingfrequenciesopen.wordpress.com/2025/10/07/pitch-mike-jones-star-trek-theme-park/  🎬 Check out Matthew's webseries https://www.youtube.com/@1701Blerd  ☕ Support the podcast at https://ko-fi.com/hailingfreqopen 

Hosts Mike Jones and Damian team up with guest host D'Manda Martini (drag queen and die-hard Trekkie) for a retro warp back to Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country. Special guest Lanita is seeing this legendary Trek film for the very first time—will she love it, laugh at it, or both? D'Manda's links: https://linktr.ee/DMandaMartini  More HFO at http://hailingfrequenciesopen.com Support Us at https://ko-fi.com/hailingfreqopen 

Hailing Frequencies Open beams up Matt Jennings and Leigh Ellen to break down Star Trek: Strange New Worlds Season 3. From standout performances to story arcs that boldly went where we didn't expect, we're diving into the highs, lows, and everything in between. Engage with us as we celebrate the season and share our final thoughts before the next adventure begins! Thank you Patrons!  Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/hailingfreqopen  https://www.instagram.com/1701blerd  https://www.instagram.com/toproudlygo 

This week on Hailing Frequencies Open, Mike, Damian, and Lanita are joined by a very special guest — Alex from DeosilDesigns! She's here to talk about her fascinating creation: the Trek Deck, a beautifully illustrated Tarot deck inspired by the universe of Star Trek. We dive into the inspiration behind the deck, the process of aligning Trek characters with Tarot archetypes, and what it means to blend spiritual symbolism with science fiction storytelling.  Whether you're a seasoned Tarot reader, a die-hard Trekkie, or just curious about where art, fandom, and mysticism collide — this is an episode you won't want to miss. So grab your tricorder, shuffle your deck, and set your intuition to stun — Hailing Frequencies are open! https://deosildesigns.com/ https://www.etsy.com/shop/DeosilDesigns

Hailing Frequencies are open — and this week, we're joined by none other than D'Amanda Martini, the Chanteuse of Southern Maryland! Cosplayer, WATCH Award-winning actor, and four-time nominated costume designer, D'Amanda brings flair, fandom, and fabulousness wherever she goes. We first crossed paths at Trek Long Island, and now she's beaming aboard to talk cosplay magic, stagecraft, and the enduring power of Star Trek's message. Tune in for a lively conversation that spans everything from con life to couture, with plenty of laughs and heartfelt moments. Whether you're a fan of fashion, fandom, or just good storytelling — this is one transmission you don't want to miss. linktr.ee/DMandaMartini     #StarTrek #Cosplay #TheatreLife #HailingFrequenciesOpen #TrekLongIsland #DAmandaMartini  

Hailing Frequencies are open for a special bonus episode! Mike, Damian, and Lanita are joined by returning guest Matt Jennings to break down all the Star Trek news that dropped at San Diego Comic-Con. From surprise trailers to series updates, we're warping through everything that has us excited for the future of Trek. Whether you're a casual viewer or a full-on Trekkie, you won't want to miss this nerdy deep dive into the latest from the Final Frontier.

This week, we're joined by the incredible Jackson Juniper (he/they) — a New York-based drag king and cosplay performer who brings sci-fi swagger and queer joy to every stage he beams onto. As the first drag king to join the crew of To Proudly Go, NYC's nonprofit charity drag show and Star Trek viewing party, Jackson has helped open the doors for even more kings to join the mission. We chat with Jackson about his journey into cosplay drag, the magic of performing as beloved Trek characters, and why drag and Star Trek are a match made in the final frontier. Plus, we dig into queer and trans representation in the franchise, the legacy of Kirk/Spock fan fiction, and how fandom can be a powerful space for identity and transformation. It's a glorious mix of glitter, gender, and galaxy-class geekery — don't miss it!

Strap in and set phasers to risqué! Lucy Blueskies returns to the pod to dish all the juicy details about Slut Trek: Holodeck—the boldly burlesque Star Trek bash that beamed into Boston earlier this year. Our very own Damilan was on the ground (and maybe a little in the holosuite?) to witness the glorious chaos firsthand. We're talking drag kings, dazzling performance art, nerdy kink, and unapologetic Trek-loving queerness. Engage, indeed.

Trek Long Island was last weekend—and we're still riding the warp wave of joy! In this episode, we're joined by the fabulous Leigh Ellen and Sonyl from To Proudly Go to unpack all the highlights of this queer-friendly, fan-fueled convention. From cosplay sightings to panel chatter, unexpected emotional moments, and the absolute magic of sharing space with fellow Trekkies, we dive deep into what made this con so special. Whether you were there or just wish you were, beam aboard for a heartwarming debrief filled with community, queerness, and a whole lot of Trek love.

Buckle up, Trekkies! This week, we're joined by the one and only Tyler Pilkinton — YouTuber, Starfleet enthusiast, and all-around sci-fi nerd. We dive into what makes his channel so popular, his favorite corners of the Star Trek universe, and maybe (just maybe) debate which captain reigns supreme. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just here for the warp core gossip, this episode is full of laughs, trivia, and pure Star Trek joy. Engage! 🖖✨

Boldly Going Where Lanita Really Has Never Gone Before! Special guest co-host Austin Smith beams aboard as we join Lanita—who's never seen Star Trek V: The Final Frontier. (Yes, the one where they literally go looking for God.) Strap in as we journey to the center of the galaxy, climb a mountain or two, and take in Lanita's unfiltered reactions to space campfire songs, rogue Vulcans, and philosophical deep dives. It's part sci-fi, part spiritual quest, and 100% Shatner. 🖖✨

Boldly Going Where Lanita Has Never Gone Before! Special guest co-host Matthew Jennings beams aboard as we sit down with the one and only Lanita—who's never seen Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home. (Yes, the one with the whales.) Join us as we explore time-traveling starships, 1980s San Francisco, and Lanita's completely unfiltered first impressions. It's part sci-fi, part comedy, and 100% whale song. 🖖🐋

Get ready for a warp-speed ride through the world of Trek fandom! 🚀 Join us as we sit down with Sefanie Gangone, the visionary founder of the Trek Long Island Convention, and her trusty Convention Ops Chief, Paul Michael Adams. They're here to spill all the exciting details about the upcoming May convention and dive into all things Trek – from fan stories to the latest happenings in the community. Beam up and join the conversation! 🌌👽🎙️  https://treklongisland.com/

Our hosts catch up with the one and only Lucy Blueskies!  Performance Artist, Trekkie and producer of Slut Trek.   https://www.instagram.com/lucyblueskies/ Tickets & Show Information: https://artsatthearmory.org/events/slut-trek-assimilation/

The final season of the best Star Trek series-- let's discuss Lower Decks, Season 5.

It's the great debate you've been waiting for!   Are we team Tasha or team Armus?  Leigh Ellen joins Lanita to argue Armus's side of things.  Sonyl & Damian defend Lt. Yar and Mike serves as judge. :) 

We're joined by Derek Tyler Attico from Soul of the Story and the author of The Autobiography of Benjamin Sisko https://youtu.be/BNVeZqpq_ZI?si=V31lHgtNm8_dnzu4  Derek Tyler Attico is a speculative fiction author, essayist, and award-winning photographer. In fiction, Derek has won the Excellence in Playwriting Award from the Dramatist Guild of America, and he is a two-time winner of the Star Trek Strange New Worlds short story contest ("Alpha & Omega," "The Dreamer and the Dream") published by Simon and Schuster. Derek is also the author of the bestselling, critically acclaimed Star Trek novel The Autobiography of Benjamin Sisko by Titan Publishing.

The latest Star Trek film- and the first made exclusively for streaming, had divided the fandom!  In today's episode we take a look at Star Trek: Section 31- the good, the bad, and the fabulous. 

Subrina Wood, the Cinnamon Cenephile joins us to discuss a the 2018 film "Fast Color".  CinnCine Goes SyFy is your go-to Sci-Fi movie podcast, hosted by the fabulous Subrina Wood, a.k.a. The Cinnamon Cinephile! Each episode, she rolls out the red carpet for a Special Guest to dish on their all-time favorite sci-fi flick.  https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLar8VN-OWcHWoaqQaVPMB9934N7xTilmx&si=Fo3AluiBc6J9A3jH

Anna Rozay joins us to take a look at William Shatner's doc on Star Trek TNG, Chaos On The Bridge.  

We take a look at back at Star Trek Generations along with friend of the pod, Matt Jennings. 

Ian Ramsey makes hillarious Star Trek song parody videos!  In today's episode he gives us a peak behind the curtain. :)  Check out his channel at: https://www.youtube.com/c/StarRekt

Leigh Ellen from To Proudly Go joins us to recap our adventures at the Trek to New Jersey convetion in Nov 2024

Matt Jennings is the writer, director, and producer of the award winning web series 1701 A Blerd Story!     https://www.youtube.com/@1701Blerd

For our 100th epsidode we have a very special guest!  You know her as the Deltan/Vulcan Science Officer, Lt. T'Veen from Picard-- it's Stephanie Czajkowski!  

Catching up with TNG actor, Leonard Crofoot (Angel One, Offspring)!  

2024 OUT 100 Groundbraker, Col. Bree Fram discusses how Star Trek influenced her career, whether kids should be on the Enterprise, and the work of the US Space Force.   https://www.out.com/out100/2024/groundbreakers/bree-fram

Catching up with our hosts!  Damian goes on the Treksperts Quiz Show, Lanita & he have fun at To Proudly Go, and we all make plans for Star Trek New Jersey.

It's all about everyone's favorite green aliens, the Orions!  With specials guests from To Proudly Go, Heather Wood & Sonyl.   https://www.toproudlygo.org/

We sit down and chat with @anna_rozay about her Trek fandom, instagram fame, & Janeway wigs! 

Interview with New York's premier Janway drag queen and founder of To Proudly Go, Heather Wood. https://www.toproudlygo.org/

There's a lot going on in the Star Trek world!  The gang take an hour to look at the news. 

In modern Trek we don't get many "filler episodes" because the seasons are so short.  But is that a good thing?  In this episode the gang looks back and lists their favorite of the fillers in Trek.