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Because That's What Heroes Do

Because That’s What Heroes Do: Deep Space 9 – Episode 16: Favor the Bold: End of The Beginning

Get ready for an exciting new season of Because That’s What Heroes Do. In this season, they take a deep dive into their favorite 15 episodes of Deep Space 9. In this exploration, Tom and Megan are joined by Star Trek maven Alex Murphy (Murphy) from Montreal, who is a local historian and cinema and tv fan with a love for weird foreign films, all things horror, and obscure media. He has been watching Trek since he was a tiny punk, and it’s been a lifelong love. In this episode, the team reviews the start of a two-part ending of the first phase of the Dominion war with Favor the Bold.

In this episode, the hosts delve into ‘Favor the Bold,’ the penultimate episode of the Siege Arc in Star Trek: Deep Space Nine. They discuss pivotal moments and character developments as the Dominion tightens its grip on the station, forcing Sisko and his crew to adapt their strategies. Key character interactions include Kira under Dominion rule, Odo’s complex relationship with the female changeling, and the emotional growth of Rom and Quark. The episode also introduces new characters and sets the stage for the concluding chapter in ‘Sacrifice of Angels.’ The hosts explore themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the moral complexities faced by the characters, offering deeper insights into the larger narrative of DS9.

Key Highlights:

  • Key Characters and Plot Points
  • Character Dynamics and Relationships
  • Odo and the Female Founder
  • Dukat and Ziyal’s Relationship
  • Final Thoughts and Reflections

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Deep Space 9: Episode 15 – Trials and Tribble – ations: Homage, Innovation, and Time Travel Intrigue

Get ready for an exciting new season of Because That’s What Heroes Do. In this season, they take a deep dive into their favorite 15 episodes of Deep Space 9. In this exploration, Tom and Megan are joined by Star Trek maven, Alex Murphy, (Murphy) from Montreal, who is a local historian, cinema and tv fan with a love for weird foreign films, all things horror, and obscure media. He has been watching Trek since he was a tiny punk, and it’s been a lifelong love. In this episode, the team reviews the DS9 tribute episode for Star Trek, the Original Series, Trials and Tribble-ations.

Celebrating the 25th anniversary of ‘The Original Series,’ this episode masterfully blends nostalgic references with technical innovations. Our hosts walk you through the recreation of the TOS aesthetic using 60s lenses, the seamless integration of DS9 characters into classic scenes, and amusing character interactions, such as Dax’s enthusiasm for the time period and Worf’s Tribble troubles. We also delve into in-universe explanations for changing Klingon appearances and highlight various Easter eggs honoring TOS (and more), like the Mulder and Scully and Dax’s admiration for Spock. Amidst the nostalgia, we touch on significant plot mechanics, including the Orb of Time and its implications for the DS9 universe, reflecting on the political intrigue and alliances with the Federation. Through engaging anecdotes and behind-the-scenes stories, we celebrate the joyful craft and love that define this special episode while hinting at deeper topics in upcoming discussions.

Key Highlights:

  • Technical Marvels and Behind-the-Scenes Insights
  • The Story Behind the Episode’s Creation
  • Easter Eggs and Fun References
  • Megan’s Thoughts on the Temporal Police
  • The Klingon Appearance Mystery
  • The Orb of Time and Cardassians

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Deep Space 9 – Episode 14: Bar Association: Workers of the World Unite

Get ready for an exciting new season of Because That’s What Heroes Do. This season, they take a deep dive into their favorite 15 episodes of Deep Space 9. Alex Murphy (Murphy), a DS9 expert from Montreal and a fan of local history, cinema, and television who enjoys weird foreign films, horror, and obscure media, joins them in this exploration. He has been watching Trek since he was a tiny punk, and it’s been a lifelong love. In this episode, the discussion centers around what might appear to be a humorous episode of DS9, Bar Association. The gang finds several larger truths in this episode.

The gang appreciates the episode for exploring labor movements within the DS9 universe, drawing parallels to real-world historical events like the 1902 anthracite strike. They discuss the character developments, including Rom’s growth and the evolving relationship dynamics between Lita and Rom, contrasted with the cultural traits of Bajorans and Ferengis. The role of characters, including Cisco, O’Brien, and Bashir, in the episode’s narrative and their varying stances on unions are also examined. Both union history enthusiasts and DS9 fans find much to appreciate in the show’s portrayal of labor rights and its deeper insight into Ferengi culture.

Key Highlights and Themes:

  • Union Story in DS9
  • Ferengi Culture and Family Dynamics
  • Rom’s Growth and Future
  • Bashir’s Character Development
  • Ferengi’s Role in DS9

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Because That's What Heroes Do

Deep Space 9: Episode 13 – Sons of Mogh: Worf’s Loneliness and Klingon Culture

Get ready for an exciting new season of Because That’s What Heroes Do. In this season, they take a deep dive into their favorite 15 episodes of Deep Space 9. In this exploration, they are joined by DS9 maven, Alex Murphy, (Murphy) from Montreal, who is a local historian, cinema and tv fan with a love for weird foreign films, all things horror, and obscure media. He has been watching Trek since he was a tiny punk, and it’s been a lifelong love. In this episode, the discussion centers around an intense installment of Deep Space 9, featuring Worf and his brother Kurn, addressing themes central to Klingon culture and the role of disillusioned warriors.

The story begins with a ritual killing that Worf stops, leading to Kurn’s downward spiral as he struggles with loss of honor and purpose. Highlights include Worf and Kurn’s mission to reveal Klingon mines around Bajoran space and Kurn’s final brain wipe, making him a new person without his past burdens. The discussion also touches on Sisko’s evolving leadership style and his strict reprimand of Worf, as well as the interpersonal dynamics between crew members. Key themes include Worf’s isolation, the contrasts between Starfleet’s ethics and Klingon traditions, and the unfolding tension in the lead-up to the Dominion War.

Key Highlights and Themes:

  • Kurn’s Struggles and Klingon Culture
  • Klingon Subplots and Bajoran Space
  • The Brain Wipe
  • Worf’s Loneliness and Relationships
  • Sisko’s Leadership and Moral Dilemmas

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Deep Space 9 – Episode 12: Paradise Lost: A Deep Dive into Federation Paranoia and Betrayal

Get ready for an exciting new season of Because That’s What Heroes Do. In this season, they take a deep dive into their favorite 15 episodes of Deep Space 9. In this exploration, they are joined by DS9 maven, Alex Murphy, (Murphy) from Montreal, who is a local historian, cinema and TV fan with a love for weird foreign films, all things horror, and obscure media. He has been watching Trek since he was a tiny punk, and it’s been a lifelong love. Last week we began with Home Front.

Today we conclude our deep dive into the second of a 2-episode arc with Paradise Lost.

In this episode, Megan, Murphy, and Tom discuss ‘Paradise Lost,’ the second part of the ‘Homefront’ arc in Star Trek: Deep Space Nine. They explore how these episodes mark a crucial transition in the series, particularly in the context of the Dominion War and Captain Sisko’s evolving relationship with Starfleet and the Federation. Through detailed analysis, they highlight key scenes, such as the interactions between Sisko and Changeling O’Brien, and discuss broader themes of paranoia, betrayal, and the moral downfall of Starfleet. The hosts also touch on the controversial use of young cadets for treasonous activities and its implications. This episode lays the groundwork for the upcoming darker and more complex narrative arcs in the series.

Key Highlights and Themes:

  • Megan’s Insight on the Episode
  • Murphy’s Perspective on Starfleet
  • The Dominion’s Strategy
  • Sisko’s Dilemma and Trust Issues
  • Admiral Layton’s Treason
  • Red Squad’s Role and Misuse

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Megan Dougherty

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Deep Space 9: Federation at the Brink – A Deep Dive into Homefront

Get ready for an exciting new season of Because That’s What Heroes Do. In this season, they take a deep dive into their favorite 15 episodes of Deep Space 9. In this exploration, they are joined by DS9 maven, Alex Murphy, (Murphy) from Montreal, who is a local historian, cinema, and TV fan with a love for weird foreign films, all things horror, and obscure media. He has been watching Trek since he was a tiny punk, and it’s been a lifelong love.

Today we take a deep dive into the first of a 2-episode series, Home Front. Next week we conclude with Paradise Lost.

The thematic crux of the episodes, as Megan noted, revolves around the Federation’s response to internal security threats. The conversations between Sisko, his father, and various Starfleet officials mirror contemporary debates about the balance between security and personal freedom. Tom drew parallels to real-world political shifts, likening the Federation’s complacency to historical and modern-day societal shifts.

Murphy’s observations highlighted a broader concern about Earth’s apparent insularity and naivety. Despite the dramatic actions taken by Admiral Layton and the ethical dilemmas posed by Sisko’s temporary promotion, the broader questions about how the Federation can protect itself without losing its core values remain at the forefront of the discussion.

Key Highlights and Themes:

  • Initial Impressions and Reactions
  • Character Analysis: Quark and Nog
  • Themes of Security and Militarization
  • Sisko’s Promotion and Federation Politics

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Megan Dougherty

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Because That’s What Heroes Do: Deep Space 9 – Episode 10: Little Green Men Comedy, Racism, and Fan Fiction

Get ready for an exciting new season of Because That’s What Heroes Do. In this season, they take a deep dive into their favorite 15 episodes of Deep Space 9.

In this exploration, they are joined by DS9 maven Alex Murphy (Murphy) from Montreal, who is a local historian and cinema and TV fan with a love for weird foreign films, all things horror, and obscure media. He has been watching Trek since he was a tiny punk, and it’s been a lifelong love.

Today we take a deep dive into the first episode selected by Tom, Little Green Men.

In this podcast episode, the panel revisits the DS9 episode Little Green Men, which involves the Ferengi crash-landing in Roswell during the 1940s. They explore themes of comedy, racism, cultural pride, and individual accountability. The episode’s origins as a fan pitch and its poignant commentary on the follies of racism and nuclear arms are discussed, along with its nostalgic nods to 1950s science fiction and anti-smoking sentiments. The panelists enjoy the character development and comedic elements but note some inconsistencies while appreciating the cultural insights into Ferengi life.

Key Highlights and Themes:

  • Fan Pitch and Comic Relief
  • Racism and Anti-Racism Themes
  • Character Insights and Cultural Details
  • Final Thoughts and Episode Wrap-Up

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Megan Dougherty 

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Because That’s What Heroes Do: Deep Space 9 – Episode 9: Way of The Warrior

Get ready for an exciting new season of Because That’s What Heroes Do. In this season, they take a deep dive into their favorite 15 episodes of Deep Space 9.

In this exploration, they are joined by DS9 maven Alex Murphy (Murphy) from Montreal, who is a local historian and cinema and TV fan with a love for weird foreign films, all things horror, and obscure media. He has been watching Trek since he was a tiny punk, and it’s been a lifelong love. Don’t miss out on the exciting new season of Because That’s What Heroes Do!

Today we take a deep dive into the first two episodes from Season 4, which brought Mr. Worf to DS9, Way of the Warrior. 

Tom, Murphy and Megan discuss the episode’s importance as it marks a transitional point in the series, introducing grander galactic conflicts and the vital character of Worf. The panel explores themes such as Klingon culture, interstellar politics, and character dynamics, notably between Worf and Jadzia.

They analyze the show’s strategic decisions, including shifting the Klingons back to antagonists and introducing complex relationships and plot developments. This engaging discussion emphasizes the episode’s role in setting the stage for future story arcs in DS9.

Key Highlights and Themes:

  • The Significance of ‘Way of the Warrior’
  • Character Dynamics and Worf’s Introduction
  • Klingon Culture and Federation Relations
  • Cardassian Politics and Dominion Influence
  • Klingon Motivations and Strategic Moves
  • Relationships and Character Interactions

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Megan Dougherty 

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Because That’s What Heroes Do: Deep Space 9 – Episode 8 – The Abandoned

Get ready for an exciting new season of Because That’s What Heroes Do. In this season, they take a deep dive into their favorite 15 episodes of Deep Space 9.

In this exploration, they are joined by DS9 maven Alex Murphy (Murphy) from Montreal, who is a local historian and cinema and TV fan with a love for weird foreign films, all things horror, and obscure media.

He has been watching Trek since he was a tiny punk, and it’s been a lifelong love. Don’t miss out on the exciting new season of Because That’s What Heroes Do!

Today we take a deep dive into Jem ‘Hadar in the episode from Season 3, The Abandoned.

In this episode, Megan, Murphy, and Tom delve into the DS9 episode ‘The Abandoned.’ The discussion focuses on Odo’s self-awareness and character development, the complex relationship between Jake and his father, Sisko, and the moral implications of Jem’Hadar’s existence.

They examine Odo’s internal conflict with his identity as a changeling and his feelings for Kira. The hosts reflect on whether the Jem’Hadar can be considered sentient beings and debate the ethical responsibilities of the Federation. Through these themes, the episode raises profound questions about sentience, free will, and personal growth.

Key Highlights and Themes:

  • Character Development: Odo and Sisko
  • Debating the Ethics of the Jem’Hadar
  • Jake’s Relationship and Sisko’s Parenting
  • What is a sentient being?
  • Odo and Kira: Unspoken Feelings
  • Final Thoughts and Reflections

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Megan Dougherty 

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Because That’s What Heroes Do: Deep Space 9: Episode 7 – Blood Oath – Exploring Queerness, Vengeance, and Klingon Honor

Get ready for an exciting new season of Because That’s What Heroes Do. In this season, they take a deep dive into their favorite 15 episodes of Deep Space 9.

In this exploration, they are joined by DS9 maven Alex Murphy (Murphy) from Montreal, who is a local historian and cinema and TV fan with a love for weird foreign films, all things horror, and obscure media. He has been watching Trek since he was a tiny punk, and it’s been a lifelong love. Don’t miss out on the exciting new season of Because That’s What Heroes Do!

Today we take a deep dive into the Klingon culture and honor in the episode from Season 3, Blood Oath.

In this episode, the hosts discuss the DS9 episode ‘Blood Oath,’ highlighting its subtle but significant positive representation of queerness and transness, in honor of Pride Month.

Megan selected the episode for its portrayal of Jadzia Dax’s acceptance by her old Klingon friends, underscoring Star Trek’s long history of progressive storytelling. Tom and Murphy delve into various themes, including the homage to original series Klingon characters, the role of old warriors, justice versus vengeance in Klingon culture, and the complexity of Jadzia’s character evolution.

The conversation also touches on the controversial naming of the villain as ‘the albino’ and Sisko’s moral flexibility. The episode is appreciated for its depth, character development, and its pivotal role in the larger DS9 narrative.

Key Highlights and Themes:

  • The Significance of Blood Oath
  • Progessive Representation in Star Trek
  • Homage to TOS
  • The Role of Old Warriors
  • Jadzia Dax’s Evolution
  • Controversial Elements and Modern Sensibilities
  • Commander Sisko’s Moral Flexibility

Resources:

Megan Dougherty 

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Tom 

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