Four Black women, who are O.G., Gen X, and Millennial Trekkies, discuss Black science fiction in tv, films, graphic novels, books and conventions.
…
continue reading
Writing Syfy Podcasts
“Writing Rural With Alley” helps fiction writers bring rural lifestyles to life! Here you will learn to craft more realistic scenes and settings of rural life and lifestyles, new ways to show, not tell, helping to drive your story forward, discover obstacles and challenges for your characters to overcome. You’ll learn skills and techniques from the stone age to post-apocalyptic, including but not limited to, homesteading, living off the grid, bushcrafting, survival skills and more. And of co ...
…
continue reading
BEHIND THE PANEL is a SYFY WIRE podcast documentary series that celebrates everything comics. Guests include legendary DC/Marvel writers and artists (like Jim Lee, Frank Miller, and Neal Adams), hit creator-owned stars (including Karen Berger, Pia Guerra, and Becky Cloonan), as well as the talents behind comic-book movie/TV adaptations (like Kevin Conroy, Burt Ward, and Lindy Hemming). As well as the exclusive, personal stories shared on the podcast, every episode features an original music ...
…
continue reading
TV Writers Sam Ernst and Jim Dunn invite aspiring screenwriters into their writers’ room and give them writing tips to develop their screenplays and TV pilots. Discussions include script notes, screenwriting tools, Hollywood career advice, and tips on navigating the entertainment industry. Sam and Jim’s credits include HAVEN on SYFY, Marvel’s DAREDEVIL, and CARNIVAL ROW on Amazon Prime. Producer J.R. Zamora-Thal and Co-Producer Meagan Daine also talk about their experiences on TV writing sta ...
…
continue reading
1
Resident Alien Reunion | Ladies Only
1:19:00
1:19:00
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:19:00We got spoilers & gongs! Join us for a special Resident Alien reunion with the incredible ladies of Patience, Colorado: Sara Tomko, Alice Wetterlund, and Meredith Garretson. We're celebrating four seasons of laughs, drama, and sci-fi magic — just the ladies, just the fun. 🎧 Listen in and don't miss this festive send-off to our Season 5! 🖖🏾 Follow S…
…
continue reading
Ever stumbled across terms like SHTF, EDC, or the KISS method and wondered how to weave them into your characters’ dialogue without sounding like a survivalist manual? In this episode, we decode the colorful jargon of preppers—those who plan for disasters and end-of-the-world scenarios. From the essentials of a bug out bag to the tongue-in-cheek wo…
…
continue reading
1
Rong Fu | From Iron Widow to Star Trek: Strange New Worlds
52:44
52:44
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
52:44Iron Widow Join the SyFy Sistas as they sit down with Rong Fu, the Toronto-based actor and writer behind Iron Widow's powerful narration and Lt. Jenna Mitchell on Star Trek: Strange New Worlds. We talk about her journey, career, and what's next for this rising sci-fi star. 🎧 Listen in and celebrate another powerhouse woman in Trek. Follow Rong Fu W…
…
continue reading
1
Lisa Klink | Writing Star Trek, Winning Jeopardy & Giving Back
1:08:41
1:08:41
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:08:415x Champ! Join the SyFy Sistas as they chat with Lisa Klink — writer of Star Trek: Voyager, Deep Space Nine, and Borg Invasion 4D, five-time Jeopardy! champion, and executive story editor for Voyager's fourth season. Lisa shares stories from the Trek writers' room, lessons from mentor Jeri Taylor, and the experiences that shaped her legendary caree…
…
continue reading
1
Brannon Braga on Star Trek's Boldest (and Strangest) Moments
1:15:34
1:15:34
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:15:34"All Good Things" The SyFy Sistas sat down with the boy from Bozeman, Hugo Award winner Brannon Braga for an unforgettable conversation that began with a chance meeting on the Star Trek Cruise and turned into a deep dive into Trek's boldest — and yes, strangest — moments. Subrina, Fran, Tamia, Yvette, and Brannon cover everything from iconic episod…
…
continue reading
1
Valerie Weiss | Directs Another Star Trek Classic
1:04:02
1:04:02
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:04:02Director of our Favorite Shows The SyFy Sistas sat down with Valerie Weiss, fresh from directing her second Star Trek: Strange New Worlds episode, "The Sehlat Who Ate Its Tail." 🚀✨ A former scientist turned acclaimed TV director, Valerie reveals how her unique background shapes her storytelling and what it's like to helm instant Star Trek classics.…
…
continue reading
1
Lou Llobell | Foundation S3 + Exclusive Q&A
30:38
30:38
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
30:38"Bad Bunny" Fresh off the Foundation Season 3 finale on Apple TV+, Lou Llobell joins the SyFy Sistas for an exclusive 15-minute interview. Lou talks about: ✨ Gaal Dornick's evolution across three seasons ✨ What this role has meant to her and the fans ✨ Plus — Lou answers a special question just for our listeners! Whether you've been following Isaac…
…
continue reading
How do you choose the perfect rural home—especially when the stakes are fictional but the realism matters? This episode is a goldmine for fiction writers crafting off-grid, survivalist, or post-apocalyptic settings. We break down the gritty essentials: building materials, natural disaster risks, wildlife encounters, food sources from game fish to f…
…
continue reading
His Father's Son As we celebrate the 59th anniversary of Star Trek, we sit down with legend Phil Morris. From his childhood debut on The Original Series to Star Trek III: The Search for Spock, DS9, and Voyager, Phil shares stories from a lifetime in the Trek universe. We also dive into his storied career as DC superheroes, his turn as an infamous T…
…
continue reading
Did she say "Dune"? It is all about Roxann Dawson! 💥 One of our favorite Klingons and a true powerhouse director, she's back for Foundation Season 3, directing episodes 8 & 9 and serving as one of AppleTV+'s newest executive producer. We're talking behind-the-scenes secrets, her creative genius, and why Roxann continues to rule the sci-fi universe!…
…
continue reading
1
Michael & Denise Okuda: Designing Star Trek
1:00:26
1:00:26
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:00:26"We are fans too." Sistas Fran and Tamia sit down with legendary Star Trek designers Michael and Denise Okuda—the creative minds behind LCARS, iconic starship displays, and so much more. In this heartfelt conversation, the Okudas share how their love for Trek—and deep respect for its fans—inspired decades of groundbreaking design. They're not just …
…
continue reading
1
5 Pond Creatures Every Writer Should Know About
26:30
26:30
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
26:30🌀 5 Pond Creatures Every Fiction Writer Should Know World-Building with Fish, Frogs, Crayfish, Birds & Dragonflies Ready to dive beneath the lily pads and stir up your story’s ecosystem? In this episode, we spotlight five pond-dwelling characters that do way more than swim and squawk—they hold the power to elevate your world-building, deepen your s…
…
continue reading
1
Eugene Cordero: Star Trek Lower Decks and So Much More
1:06:19
1:06:19
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:06:19"The oil and everything" We finally got Eugene Cordero! The Star Trek: Lower Decks star joins the SyFy Sistas for a warm and funny conversation about fandom, family, and finding his place in the sci-fi universe. From watching The Original Series with his dad to becoming part of the Trek legacy, Eugene brings heart, humor, and behind-the-scenes fun.…
…
continue reading
"Nothing Hectic" This week, the Sistas are thrilled to bring you a special treat: the audio from our press junket with the cast of AppleTV+'s sci-fi epic Foundation! After two long years, we finally had the opportunity to meet and speak with this incredible ensemble, and we couldn't be more excited to share it with you—just in time for the Season 3…
…
continue reading
Short medical pause, but will be back. Send us a text Support the show If you enjoy this podcast and would like to help support the creation of this work or would like access to unique membership perks, you can do this and more at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/writingruralwithalley. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with ot…
…
continue reading
1
Historical Brickmaking Facts Every Writer Should Know
8:24
8:24
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
8:24What fireproof building material has been used since roughly 7500 BC? What challenges might your character face when learning to make bricks? Could these ancient skills prove useful in the zombie apocalypse? Will I throw a brick at a zombie? Find out on this episode! Stick around to the end to find out what could go wrong. You can connect with Eliz…
…
continue reading
1
5 Alternative Lighting Sources For Your Story
6:59
6:59
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
6:59Do you need alternative lighting in your story? So you know what lighting is pipped into homes? Do you know what could go wrong? Find out on this episode! Send us a text Support the show If you enjoy this podcast and would like to help support the creation of this work or would like access to unique membership perks, you can do this and more at htt…
…
continue reading
1
5 Animals That Feed Characters & Elevate Stories
19:59
19:59
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
19:59Fiction thrives on the gritty details—and when your story hinges on survival or rural living, it’s not just meat on the table that matters. In this episode, we explore the top five animals—cows, pigs, rabbits, chickens, and bees—that do far more than fill the stew pot. From raw honey to rich manure, and dairy that goes the extra churn, we unpack th…
…
continue reading
1
Ursaline Bryant: Class is in Session
1:16:27
1:16:27
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:16:27"Know Thyself…Love Thyself" This week, the SyFy Sistas beam up a true legend of the Star Trek universe: actress and lifelong Trekker Ursaline Bryant, best known to fans as the trailblazing Captain Tryla Scott from Star Trek: The Next Generation. Ms. Bryant doesn't just join the conversation—she commands it. With the poise and power of a true Starfl…
…
continue reading
1
The Pros Of Off-The-Grid Living Every Fiction Writer Should Know
14:24
14:24
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
14:24What if your next character didn’t just "survive" off-grid—they thrived? In this episode, we explore the real-life benefits of off-grid living that can infuse your fiction with depth and realism. From your characters growing their own food to eliminating dependency on the power grid, we’ll unpack how self-sufficiency leads to healthier lifestyles, …
…
continue reading
1
Conrad Coates: The Admiral and The Professor
1:06:21
1:06:21
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:06:21From Star Trek to Shakespeare and Afrofuturism This week, the SyFy Sistas sit down with the incomparable Conrad Coates—the actor behind Admiral Terral on Star Trek: Discovery, and a true force in the worlds of theatre, teaching, and Afrofuturistic storytelling. In this wide-ranging conversation, we explore: His experience portraying Admiral Terral,…
…
continue reading
1
More Downsides Of Living Off-The-Grid Every Writer Should Know
14:19
14:19
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
14:19The Harsh Realities of Off-Grid Living: A Fiction Writer’s Guide Living off the grid sounds like the ultimate freedom—no utility bills, no nosy neighbors—but reality paints a different picture. In this episode, we’re exposing the hidden struggles that fiction writers must consider for realistic storytelling. How do characters handle medical emergen…
…
continue reading
1
The Downside Of Living Off-The-Grid Every Writer Should Know
17:14
17:14
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
17:14Romanticized visions of off-grid living often overlook the brutal hardships—hauling water for miles, battling extreme temperatures without modern climate control, and surviving isolation when medical help is hours away. In this episode, we break down the gritty details of off-grid survival that will elevate your storytelling—from historical dramas …
…
continue reading
Soap Operas, Starships, and the Paris/Locarno Thing The Sistas got to sit down with the one and only Robert Duncan McNeill. Before he was flying through the Delta Quadrant as Lieutenant Tom Paris, Robbie was stirring up drama on the classic soap All My Children. We talk about his early days on daytime TV, how he found his true calling behind the ca…
…
continue reading
🚨SPOILERS🚨 We are ALL Sinners The SyFy Sistas are joined by the full crew from our SyFy Sistas Inc. YouTube channel, with special guests Tanya Scott-Thomas (Two Moons and a Microphone) and Derek Tyler Attico (Soul of the Story), for a celebration and deep-dive into Sinners, the genre-bending horror film from Ryan Coogler. Set against the backdrop o…
…
continue reading
1
Show Don't Tell: Carbon Dioxide Poisoning
18:03
18:03
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
18:03Silent, odorless, and deadly—carbon dioxide poisoning is an often-overlooked but chilling threat in fiction. Whether you're crafting suspenseful mysteries, survival thrillers, hard-hitting sci-fi, or anything else, understanding how CO₂ exposure works can add tension and authenticity to your storytelling. In this episode, we break down the science …
…
continue reading
We can't believe it either. This week, The SyFy Sistas are celebrating their 100th episode — and yes, we're feeling all the feels. Some of our longtime friends (from before there was even a podcast!) join us for a joyful and sassy stroll down memory lane. Our amazing Associate Producers — Karyn Dramera, Sailor Marj, and Dr. Stephanie Baker — pull u…
…
continue reading
1
What Every Writer Should Know About The Swedish Fire Torch
13:08
13:08
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
13:08Unleash the power of survival lore in your storytelling! Dive into this episode as we explore the Swedish fire torch—a fascinating survival tool that can double as your story's game-changer. Learn how to craft these ingenious log fires, their practical uses, and the pros and cons that make them both a versatile tool and a compelling plot device. Di…
…
continue reading
1
Surprise Your Readers By Seamlessly Incorporating Earthworms Into Your Story
14:09
14:09
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
14:09Imagine a creature so unassuming, yet so vital, that its very existence shapes the foundation of life as we know it. I give you the earthworm. Often overlooked and underestimated, these tiny characters in the soil hold immense potential for captivating fiction. From their ecological significance as silent heroes of nature to survival, earthworms ca…
…
continue reading
1
Ways To Seamlessly Incorporate Animals Into Fiction
17:22
17:22
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
17:22Discover how to incorporate animals into your fiction to captivate readers and bring your stories to life. In this episode, I’ll share creative tips on using animals as plot points, comedic relief, and vivid scene enhancers. Whether you’re writing fantasy, drama, or comedy, learn how these unique characters can add depth and charm to your stories. …
…
continue reading
1
Vulcans. Can't trust 'em. Can't kill 'em!
1:18:32
1:18:32
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:18:32Emotional This week, Fran, Tamia, and Yvette are celebrating First Contact Day by finally letting Subrina unload on those F* Vulcans. And, oh boy, does she have A LOT to say. Buckle up for a wild ride of intergalactic sass. This episode? Definitely not for the kiddos. The explicit video version drops for Spotlight Patrons on April 9th — get ready t…
…
continue reading
Ever wondered how dehydration could be the silent antagonist in your story? Dive with us into the depths of dehydration and discover how this often-overlooked condition can dramatically transform your characters and plot. From the initial thirst that gnaws at the edges of their sanity to the life-threatening consequences that raise the stakes, we’l…
…
continue reading
1
Quirky Black Sci-Fi Tales w/ M'Shai S. Dash
1:28:30
1:28:30
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:28:30"Let's Talk Mess" This week, Subrina, Tamia, and Yvette welcome the talented M'Shai S. Dash, an award-winning Muslim author, writer, and speaker from Washington, D.C. Known for her work on transforming adversity into purpose, Afrofuturism, and the power of storytelling, M'Shai joined us to promote her new book. But it quickly turned into a joyful s…
…
continue reading
Announcement 1: I'm taking a two week break. Announcement 2: I have a new YouTube channel of writing prompts that comes out today called, Writing Gone Wrong! Send us a text Support the show If you enjoy this podcast and would like to help support the creation of this work or would like access to unique membership perks, you can do this and more at …
…
continue reading
1
5 Well-Intended But Misleading Survival Advice Every Writer Should Know
12:54
12:54
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
12:54Welcome to another insightful episode of Writing Rural With Alley! In this episode we uncover common survival tips that could mislead your fictional characters into danger. Join us as we delve into five misguided survival advice: Don’t Eat Insects - Discover why this advice could deprive your characters of a vital food source. Finding a River Means…
…
continue reading
Down for the Cause This week Subrina, Tamia and Fran welcome the talented and award-winning actor Ronnie Rowe Jr. Known for his role as the Communications Officer on Star Trek: Discovery, Ronnie carries on the legacy of Nichelle Nichols' iconic character, Nyota Uhura, from the Original Series. From his portrayal of the Black Prince in a Hallmark Ch…
…
continue reading
1
5 Outdated Survival Advice Every Writer Should Know
14:04
14:04
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
14:04Are you a fiction writer seeking inspiration for survival scenarios in your stories? Dive into this episode where we debunk long-held beliefs about staying alive. From rubbing hypothermic skin to the misguided use of gunpowder on wounds, we’ll explore the history and myth behind these outdated tips. Join us as we uncover five outdated survival advi…
…
continue reading
1
5 Survival Tips That Are True & Not True Every Writer Needs To Know
17:28
17:28
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
17:28Welcome to another intriguing episode of the Writing Rural With Alley! In this episode, we explore common survival advice that, while often practical, could spell danger for your fictional characters in certain situations. Join us as we explore five critical survival scenarios: 1. Eating Snow for Hydration - Learn why this could be a fatal mistake …
…
continue reading
Sisterhood in Action The Sistas recorded this episode with the amazing Linda Park right after the 2024 U.S. elections. It's a continuation of a deeper, more emotional sister talk we had before the show. We dive into our love for Hoshi Sato, what it was like growing up as an immigrant, and our unforgettable experiences on the Star Trek Cruise. Huge …
…
continue reading
1
5 Survival Tips That Will Kill Your Character
15:05
15:05
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
15:05Welcome to another thrilling episode of Writing Rural With Alley! In this episode we debunk common survival myths that could spell doom for your fictional characters. Join us as we explore five dangerous survival tips: 1. All Berries Are Safe to Eat- Discover the dangers of trusting every berry you come across. 2. You Can Drink Seawater to Survive-…
…
continue reading
1
Star Trek Pod Crawl: The Voyage Home
1:05:12
1:05:12
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:05:12Supporting the National Center for Science Education This episode is part of a project called the Star Trek Pod Crawl. We're a group of Star Trek podcasts raising money for science education by banding together and making special episodes about some of our favorite Star Trek films. Join us in supporting the National Center for Science Education and…
…
continue reading
1
Star Trek Section 31: Red Carpet + Reviews
1:30:50
1:30:50
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:30:50Red Alert…SPOILERS! RED ALERT…SPOILERS INBOUND! 🚨 The Sistas are back for Season 5, and this time we're talking Star Trek: Section 31! Join Fran, Subrina, Tamia, and Yvette as we share our honest take on the very first Star Trek TV movie. Did it live up to the hype? We're keeping it real with no gatekeeping, just a straight-up review of what worked…
…
continue reading
1
5 Survival Misconceptions Every Writer Should Know
9:52
9:52
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
9:52Welcome to another enlightening episode of Writing Rural With Alley! In this episode, we bust common survival myths that could endanger your fictional characters. Join us as we delve into five critical survival misconceptions: 1. Cellphones Are Reliable to Call 911 Even When There Is No Signal - Uncover the truth about cellphone reliability in emer…
…
continue reading
Welcome to another captivating episode of Writing Rural With Alley! In this episode, we unravel common survival beliefs that could put your fictional characters in grave danger. Join us as we explore five critical survival myths: 1. Sucking Snake Venom - Discover why this could do more harm than good. 2. Moss Always Grows on the North Side of a Tre…
…
continue reading
Welcome to another fascinating episode of Writing Rural With Alley! In this episode, we explore some inventive and lesser-known ways snow has been used historically and in modern times. Join us as we uncover five uncommon snow uses: 1. Sleds (Historical Uses Included) - Discover the various ways sleds have been used throughout history. 2. Animals E…
…
continue reading
1
5 Fun & Versatile Uses For Snow Every Writer Should Know
8:21
8:21
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
8:21In this episode, we explore the many playful and practical ways snow can enhance your fictional narratives and everyday life. Join us as we delve into five versatile uses of snow: 1. Snow Sports - Discover the thrilling world of snow sports, from skiing to snowboarding. 2. Fun Time (All the Things Kids Love) - Learn about the myriad of snow activit…
…
continue reading
Calling all fiction writers! Dive into the captivating world of pigs and discover how these extraordinary animals can add depth, drama, and intrigue to your stories. In this episode, "Piggytales," we explore the rich history and diverse roles of pigs, offering a treasure trove of inspiration. Key Points: * Origins and Natural Habitat: Unearth the f…
…
continue reading
In this episode, we explore the cunning and deceptive ways snow can be used by both antagonists and protagonists in your stories. Join us as we uncover five clever snow uses: 1. Camouflage for People - Discover how snow can be utilized for effective concealment. 2. Camouflage for Traps - Learn how to disguise traps using snow for unexpected surpris…
…
continue reading
1
5 Survival Uses For Snow Every Writer Should Know
10:26
10:26
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
10:26In this episode, we explore the practical and ingenious ways snow can be used to enhance your characters' chances of survival in extreme conditions. Join us as we delve into five essential survival uses for snow: 1. Igloos - Discover the age-old art of building igloos to provide shelter in the harshest climates. 2. Pillar for Signal Fire - Learn ho…
…
continue reading
Does your character hunt? Do they know how to use every part of a deer? What’s antler velvet? How can the bones help your sick, injured, and pregnant characters? What on earth do deer have to do with curing rabies? Learn about all of this and more in today’s episode. Send us a text Support the show If you enjoy this podcast and would like to help s…
…
continue reading