TrekRanks

Top 5 Uhura Episodes

Episode 142: with Jim Moorhouse, Chris Burris, Beverly Falls & Ryan Riddle
On this week’s TrekRanks we celebrate the life, career and impact of Nichelle Nichols, arguably the most legendary performer in Star Trek history. Nichols’ impact as an actor, singer, dancer and civil rights advocate can never be overstated, and in breaking down our “Top 5 Uhura Episodes” we dive deep into not only her body of work, but also onto the platform she created for both Zoë Saldana and Celia Rose Gooding to follow. This is an emotional episode covering a lot of ground. 

Top 5 Unjustly Accused Storylines

Episode 141: with Jim Moorhouse, Matt Hansen & Ross Webster
It’s time for another deep-dive topic as we get into the “Top 5 Unjustly Accused Storylines” just in time for the Season 3 premiere of Star Trek: Lower Decks, which ended on a brilliant Captain Freeman cliffhanger. There are no shortages of engrossing stories in Star Trek’s history involving our heroes being unjustly accused, both in major, life-changing ways, as well as in small personal ways. Our panel is guaranteed to bring the gavel down in both big and small ways as they tackle every corner of Trek on this fun episode. 

Top 5 TNG Underrated

Episode 140: with Jim Moorhouse, Kimberly Lawler & Christian Juel
In the fifth and final installment of our “Underrated” shows for Star Trek’s five legacy series, this week we tackle the “Top 5 TNG Underrated.” It’s an episode dedicated to celebrating the unheralded moments and episodes from Star Trek: The Next Generation. As always, we use the TrekRanks Matrix to break this topic down in five distinct categories: production design, performer/creative, wildcard Dabo round, character and episode! Our panel covers every square inch of the Enterprise-D and its crew. 

Top 5 Strange New Worlds Season 1 Moments

Episode 139: with Jim Moorhouse, Josh Zeller & Melanie
"Strange New Worlds" is not only one of the greatest first seasons in Trek history, it is one of the great seasons in all of Star Trek. It was that good. From Pike’s battle with his ignominious future to dramatic and subtle retconning that you didn’t think you’d see and didn’t know you wanted – the season packed an insane amount of heart, emotion and action into 10 episodes. And on this week’s TrekRanks, we get deep into the Top 5 Strange New Worlds Season 1 Moments with our panel. You’ll want to listen to this one just to relive all the glory of this amazing season of Trek. 

Top 5 Scenes in Engineering

Episode 138: with Jim Moorhouse, Jenn Tifft & Beverly Falls
We return to our popular “Scenes in Trek” series for the 12th time, this week tackling the “Top 5 Scenes in Engineering.” From the warp core to the spore drive to the intermix chamber on any number of starships, this broad topic touches every corner of the Star Trek universe. Our expert panel give it everything they’ve got in relaying their picks, which include heavy-hitters and deep cuts in equal measure. Whether or not your antimatter containment system is fully regulated or not, this episode is a blast. 

Top 5 Coolest Looking Aliens

Episode 137: with Jim Moorhouse, Brooke Horton & Clive Burrell
It’s a classic, straight-forward topic on this week’s TrekRanks – the “Top 5 Coolest Looking Aliens” in Star Trek. From Andorians to Zalkonians and from CGI creatures to forehead prosthetics, everything is in play on this wide-ranging topic that spans a huge canvas of more than 55 years. Our expert panel end up with a wide array of choices covering almost every incarnation of Trek. This one is cool! 

Top 5 Sleazy Locales

Episode 136: with Jim Moorhouse, Alex Perry, Claire Little, Jenn Tifft, Ken Reilly, & Matt Hansen
There is no better way to tackle a topic like the “Top 5 Sleazy Locales” in Star Trek than with a wild, live recording at a Star Trek convention. From seedy bars to characters of disrepute, and from pleasure planets to interstellar outposts, we cover a huge swath of the Star Trek universe in tackling this subject. Our expert panel can’t be contained, turning this podcast into a sleazy locale unto itself. You’ve been warned! 

Top 5 Picard Season 2 Moments

Episode 135: with Jim Moorhouse, Ron Wrobel & Arielle K.
“Let’s see what’s out there.” The second season of Star Trek: Picard is likely the most bingeable, complete season in Star Trek history, telling one amazing, 10-episode time-travel story on near modern-day Earth. The season was thought provoking, profound and, also, fun! From Q to Guinan and from the Borg Queen to Soong, our expert panel break it all down in our Top 5 Picard Season 2 Moments, featuring our unique five rounds of topics (production design, creative, wildcard, character and episode). 

Top 5 Spock Episodes

Episode 134: with Jim Moorhouse, Debbie Moltisanti & Chris Burris
With the launch of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds upon us, TrekRanks previews the new series with a quintessential Trek topic: the “Top 5 Spock Episodes.” Spock has been forever present in Trek, from the very first scene through the Kelvin Timeline films, and even Star Trek: Discovery. With Strange New Worlds he is about to become the first character in Trek history to be a regular on three different live-action series, and our panel explores every angle of the legendary character. 

Top 5 Trek Crushes

Episode 133: with Jim Moorhouse, Ryan Riddle & Ashley V. Robinson
Crushes can come in all different shapes and sizes – infatuation, forbidden fruit, school yard – and on this week’s TrekRanks it is time to reveal yours! It’s time to get your crush on. It’s the Top 5 Trek Crushes! (Not Crushers – that was Episode 108.) Our amazing panel of host Jim Moorhouse and guests Ryan Riddle and Ashley V. Robinson cover a lot of territory from TOS to Discovery and everything in between. 

Top 5 Discovery Season 4 Moments

Episode 132: with Jim Moorhouse, Bill Mann & Abby Sommer
Another great season of Trek is in the books, which means it is time for another glorious TrekRanks recap show. We bust through the Galactic Barrier to bring you the Top 5 Discovery Season 4 Moments. Our expert panel covers it all from the DMA to Species Ten-C. As always, we use the TrekRanks Matrix to cut through our season recap shows, with five distinct categories in each round (production design, performer, wildcard, character and episode)! In the end it was a season of Trek like no other, and this is the recap show to do it justice. 

Top 5 One-Off Guest Stars v1.0

Episode 131: with Jim Moorhouse, Charlynn Schmiedt & Peter Hong
We expand our one “one-off series” with a huge topic: a breakdown of the “Top 5 One-Off Guest Stars v1.0” in Trek. It’s those actors and guest stars who made an impact in just one, single role in 800-plus hours of Star Trek. There are plenty of actors who have played multiple roles or recurring roles, but this is about those amazing one-time guest stars! From huge stars to character actors, our panel highlights all their favorite standout performances. 

Top 5 Q Moments

Episode 130: with Jim Moorhouse, Alex Perry & Zane Brumley
TrekRanks enters the Q Continuum for the first time with the *snap/whoosh* Top 5 Q Moments! In 13 appearances across four series, Q always proved himself to be not only one of the edgiest foes in Star Trek history, but also one of the most comical. No easy feat for anyone to pull off, but something that John de Lancie and the other Q always handled with perfection! Just in time for the debut of season 2 of Star Trek: Picard, our panel dive deeps into the wonderfully omnipotent world of the Q! *snap/whoosh* 

Top 5 First Times

Episode 129: with Jim Moorhouse, Kimberly Lawler & Matt Price
The beginning. A start. An introduction. … A wide-open topic that our panel explores in many first-time directions. And, of course, for a topic like this, we are joined by two first time guests: Kimberly Lawler and Matt Price. This original topic is a catalyst for another great TrekRanks deep dive! On this week’s TrekRanks it’s the “Top 5 First Times” in Trek. 

Abstract Silence

Episode 128: with Jim Moorhouse, Adam Hunault & Arielle K.
It’s another round of “Abstract TrekRanks” as we pick a random topic and apply it to Trek. This week it is “Abstract Silence,” which could mean anything in the world of Trek. Silence on the screen, silent communication, in-universe silence – the entire Star Trek canvas is in play for this wide-open topic. And our panel takes full advantage of that with host Jim Moorhouse and guests Adam Hunault and Arielle K. getting deep into the abstract. 

Top 5 Voyager Underrated

Episode 127: with Jim Moorhouse, Heather Kirby & Patrick Carlin
We return to our “Underrated Series” by diving deep into our “Top 5 Voyager Underrated.” It’s an episode dedicated to celebrating some unheralded moments from Star Trek: Voyager and captain Janeway and her crew. As always, we use the TrekRanks Matrix to break this topic down in five distinct categories: production design, performer/creative, wildcard round, character and episode! Our panel gets into the nitty-gritty of some of the shows most underrated moments. 

Top 5 Characters that Fooled Ya

Episode 126: with Jim Moorhouse, Ross Webster & Debbie Moltisanti
Who fooled ya?!? This week we get to know all those characters you maybe thought were one thing and then turned out to be something else. It’s the “Top 5 Characters that Fooled Ya”! It could have been their motivations that fooled ya. Or their appearance that fooled ya. Or their identity that fooled ya. You can trust our panel to not be fooled by any of these picks as we get deep into identifying all the different suspects! 

Top 5 Fight Scenes

Episode 125: with Jim Moorhouse, Dana Kenedy & Chris Burris
Star Trek is obviously about the human condition and the exploration of strange new worlds ... but, you know, sometimes it’s also about fisticuffs! And on this week’s TrekRanks we return to our “Scenes in Trek” series with the “Top 5 Fight Scenes.” (Which in this case is not about phaser fights or space battles or verbal sparring, but about knockdown, drag-out, physical altercations…and there are a ton of them in Trek.) Our panel enters the ring to faceoff with all their favorites. 

Top 5 Episodes that Make You Feel Like a Kid Again

Episode 124: with Jim Moorhouse, Beverly Falls & Michael
Sometimes an episode of Star Trek will transport you back to a time and place of your youth. Sometimes it will inject you with youthful energy. And sometimes on TrekRanks we breakdown the “Top 5 Episodes that Make You Feel Like a Kid Again.” And we guarantee you that is exactly what this episode will do! Make you feel like a kid again! Our panel of OG Trek fans tackle the old and new in recapturing their Star Trek youth. 

Top 5 Spatial Anomalies

Episode 123: with Jim Moorhouse, Alex Perry & Abby Sommers
Spatial anomalies abound in the universe of Star Trek, and we warp straight into the heart of them on this week's show with the Top 5 Spatial Anomalies. From temporal to atmospheric to organic – spatial anomalies take all forms and we cover them all on this deep cut episode of TrekRanks. Our expert panel leave no sector unscanned as they unveil their picks. Stick with us and we’ll guide you through this anomaly.” 

Top 5 Lower Decks Season 2 Moments

Episode 122: with Jim Moorhouse, Carlos Miranda & Rich Masters
“It’s the Cerritos!” And with that glorious exclamation a classic season of Star Trek came to an end, which means another season breakdown episode from TrekRanks – this week it is the “Top 5 Lower Decks Season 2 Moments.” From Kayshon to the Kazon, this season of Trek had it all, right down to an amazing season finale (“First First Contact”) and one of the greatest introspective episodes in Star Trek history. The season was that good. “Warp me!” 

Top 5 Delta Quadrant Species

Episode 121: with Jim Moorhouse, Rick Everson & Claire Little
With the latest incarnation of Star Trek debuting this month and showcasing the return of both Kate Mulgrew and the Delta Quadrant, this is the perfect time to deep dive into our Top 5 Delta Quadrant Species on the new episode of TrekRanks. Our panel previews the new animated series, Star Trek Prodigy, while also deep diving into seven years and 168 episodes of Star Trek: Voyager. Whether they be major players or one-off appearances, we cover it all from the Ankari to the Zahl. 

Top 5 Dax Episodes

Episode 120: with Jim Moorhouse, Jenn Tifft & Arielle K.
Scientist. Counselor. Klingon icon. Dax was all of these and more. It’s another character deep dive topic on TrekRanks as we explore the 350-year-old Trill symbiont who joined with some of Starfleet’s most legendary officers: Jadzia. Ezri. Curzon. It’s the “Top 5 Dax Episodes” in this, our 13th character breakdown in TrekRanks history. Our expert panel picks their favorite moments and episodes from throughout Dax’s exploits on Deep Space Nine. 

Top 5 Vaughn Armstrong Moments

Episode 119: with Jim Moorhouse, Bill Mann & Jen Howse
Vaughn Armstrong has played more distinct characters on Star Trek than any other person, and on this week’s show we highlight that scope of work with our “Top 5 Vaughn Armstrong Moments.” You will know him best as Enterprise’s Admiral Maxwell Forrest, but he has also been a Klingon, Romulan, Cardassian and more! All told, he has played 11 different characters across four different series and 28 overall episodes. He may not be a household name, but in the Trek Universe he is a legendary chameleon! 

Top 5 Ferengi Episodes

Episode 118: with Jim Moorhouse, Ron Wrobel & Grace Moore
The Ferengi Commerce Authority has granted us the power of Grand Proxy to relay our Top 5 Ferengi Episodes on this week's TrekRanks! Our Board of Liquidators for this valuable topic includes host Jim Moorhouse and guests Ron Wrobel and Grace Moore, both experts on all 285 Rules of Acquisition. And don’t forget Rule No. 34 ½! TrekRanks is good for business! 

Top 5 Epic Comebacks

Episode 117: with Jim Moorhouse, Jamie McGregor & Melanie
This one is all about triumphant returns, resurgences and recoveries! It’s the Top 5 Epic Comebacks on the latest TrekRanks (just in time for the premiere of Season 2 of Lower Decks, which will have an epic comeback of its own at some point with Boimler somehow getting back to the Cerritos). Our panel gets deep into Trek lore with comebacks that span series, seasons and episodes, as well as non-universe production elements. This is a great episode to comeback to TrekRanks for! 

Trek Minutiae

Episode 116: with Jim Moorhouse & Adam Drosin
On this week’s TrekRanks we get into a deep-dive conversation on “Trek Minutiae,” which is best defined as the small, precise and trivial details of any specific topic. Which for us means: Star Trek. This episode has a little bit of everything for the Trek connoisseur – in-universe picks, production picks, character specific picks, episode specific picks. Our panel has a fun time breaking down those tiny details (some mundane, some profound) that you’ll find throughout Trek! 

Top 5 High-Concept DS9 Episodes

Episode 115: with Jim Moorhouse, Heather Kirby & David Majors
High-concept episodes come in all shapes and sizes, which we showcase in a bunch of different ways on this episode of TrekRanks featuring the “Top 5 High-Concept DS9 Episodes.” Deep Space Nine is a very different Star Trek series, and we highlight that across a selection of deep cuts and heavy hitters from the series’ seven-year run. 

Top 5 Scenes on a Cliff

Episode 114: with Jim Moorhouse, Jenn Tifft & Matt Finbow
Our “Scenes in Trek” series returns with another unique topic: the Top 5 Scenes on a Cliff! (Which is totally and completely different from Episode 70 when we did Top 5 Scenes in a Cave. They are nothing alike. And besides, that was like 50 episodes ago.) Anyway, there are lots of scenes in Star Trek, ranging from dangerous to majestic, that take place on cliffs and precipices, and our panel breaks them all down. Watch your footing on this great episode of TrekRanks. 

Top 5 Kurtzman Era Episodes

Episode 113: with Jim Moorhouse, Beverly Falls & Capt. Pike-a-chu
Since 2009, there have been 75 new episodes and films of Star Trek and they all have one thing in common: Alex Kurtzman, who started as a screenwriter on Star Trek (2009) and is now the executive producer overseeing every new Trek series. With five new seasons of Trek in production right now, this is the perfect time to dive into our “Top 5 Kurtzman Era Episodes” with our expert panel. 

Top 5 One-Off Klingons

Episode 112: with Jim Moorhouse, Charlynn Schmiedt & Daniel Martin
Klingons have been at the core of Star Trek storytelling for more than 50 years, and sometimes it only takes one appearance to have a lasting impact on our favorite episodes and characters. This week on TrekRanks we deep dive into the Top 5 One-Off Klingons across the whole of the franchise and learn even more about Trek’s most popular alien species. tlhIngan maH taHjaj! 

Abstract One

Episode 111: with Jim Moorhouse, Abby Sommer & Chris Chaplin
TrekRanks’ one-of-a-kind “abstract series” returns in Episode 111 with a singular topic that literally stands alone. Its “Abstract One” on TrekRanks with our expert panel of host Jim Moorhouse and guests Abby Sommer and Chris Chaplin diving into a fun and broad topic that can be defined in a myriad of unique ways. This one covers a lot of territory – from TOS to Lower Decks and everything in between. 

Top 5 Computer Crises

Episode 110: with Jim Moorhouse, Alex Perry & Dana Kenedy
Computers in need of repair, malfunctioning computers, alien infested computers – computers are often at the heart of the drama in Star Trek and on this week’s TrekRanks we deep dive into the “Top 5 Computer Crises” as part of Episode 110. (Not quite “11001001,” but close enough!) Our panel of Star Trek diehards power up the duotronic processors to figure out how to breakdown such a massive Trek topic. Computer, run program for our loyal listeners! 

Top 5 TOS Guilty Pleasure Episodes

Episode 109: with Jim Moorhouse, Ryan Riddle & Caleb Dorsch
It’s a return to our “guilty pleasure” series on this week’s TrekRanks, as we take on the Top 5 TOS Guilty Pleasure Episodes. We love all Trek, so there is never any guilt for us in watching any particular episode, but everyone has their secret favorites that maybe aren’t as highly regarded by the masses. And in TOS, those options are endless. From bright colors and sparse sets to dayglo and go-go boots, our panel of host Jim Moorhouse and guess Ryan Riddle and Caleb Dorsch break it all down. 

Top 5 Crusher Episodes

Episode 108: with Jim Moorhouse, Amy Nelson & Christos Giannaris
Our series of "character breakdown" episodes returns with a twist. We are tackling the Top 5 Crusher Episodes, and that means exactly what you think it does! All of the Crushers are in play for this TNG-centered topic: Beverly, Wesley and even Jack. Our panel, featuring host Jim Moorhouse and TNG fans Amy Nelson and Christos Giannaris, mix it up in a bunch of different ways to finalize their lists. It’s a Crusher family deep dive on this week’s fun episode of TrekRanks. 

Top 5 Improvements

Episode 107: with Jim Moorhouse, Katharine Robinson & Ross Webster
Star Trek is pretty darn close to perfect just the way it is, but every once in a while they come along and improve it! On this week’s TrekRanks, we highlight the “Top 5 Improvements” in Trek, both in terms of production choices and in-universe narrative decisions. And based on this breakdown with our panel, “improvements” can cover a lot of territory! The discussion is one you’ll find only on TrekRanks and covers everything from TOS to the most recent season of Star Trek: Discovery! 

Top 5 Rescues

Episode 106: with Jim Moorhouse, Brooke Horton & Noah Averbach-Katz
Rescue missions are an integral part of the framework of Star Trek and on this week’s TrekRanks we put our expert team together to take on the Top 5 Rescues in Trek history. Host Jim Moorhouse is joined by guests Brooke Horton and Noah Averbach-Katz, the actor and Star Trek fanatic who played the Andorian Ryn during the third season of Star Trek: Discovery, and they plan it all out to dissect every type of rescue (literally) in Trek. This is a fun one! 

Top 5 Scenes in a Corridor

Episode 105: with Jim Moorhouse, Carlos Miranda & Geoff Owen
There are corridors everywhere on Star Trek, and in this week’s episode of TrekRanks we return to our popular “Scenes in Trek” series with a look at the Top 5 Scenes in a Corridor. From walk-and-talks to long exposition to action-packed thrills, corridors on Trek have seen it all. Our expert panel of host Jim Moorhouse and guests Carlos Miranda and Geoff Owen break it all down with picks covering every corner of the ship. Deep cuts abound on this round of TrekRanks! 

Top 5 Sports References

Episode 104: with Jim Moorhouse, Jenn Tifft & John Denniston
Play ball! Sports have been an integral part of the Star Trek narrative through the years, and on this week’s TrekRanks we break down the Top 5 Sports References in Trek history. From real sports (baseball, football, soccer!) to those classic in-universe references (parrises squares, velocity, geskana!), our panel has it all covered and get into the thick of it regarding that age old question: What is it about sports? Why do they matter? This is a good one. 

Top 5 Badmirals!

Episode 103: with Jim Moorhouse, Jamie McGregor & Patrick Escudero
Nothing like a Starfleet admiral to appear and muck everything up! We hold all of Starfleet’s top brass accountable in this fun episode of TrekRanks as we highlight the Top 5 Badmirals! For our purposes on this show, we are leaving it up to you to define a badmiral as either a bad person or a badass, which allows for some interesting picks from our panel. Attention all hands: the Badmirals are on deck! 

Top 5 Discovery Season 3 Moments

Episode 102: with Jim Moorhouse, Teresa Jusino & Ebony Elizabeth Thomas
On this week’s episode of TrekRanks we jump all the way to the 32nd century to break down the Top 5 Discovery Season 3 Moments. Our expert panel covers everything from the Emerald Chain to Su’Kal. As always, for our season recap shows, we use five distinct categories to cut through it all: production design, performer, Dabo round wildcard, character and episode! You ready for a comprehensive look back at a phenomenal season? Let’s fly! 

Trek 101

Episode 101: with Jim Moorhouse, Abby Sommer & Thad Hait
On this unique TrekRanks, there is no topic. Instead, our guests define their picks based on their own personal Prime Directive to come up with a special Trek 101 lesson that serves as an educational deep dive into Trek for newcomers and veterans alike! It’s all about what makes Star Trek personal for you, and our panelists, including host Jim Moorhouse and guests Abby Sommer and Thad Hait, discuss the episodes that have shaped our fandom and professional lives! 

Top 5 Janeway Episodes

Episode 100: with Jim Moorhouse, Charlynn Schmiedt, Foz Rotten & Melanie
To celebrate the 100th episode of TrekRanks we highlight one of Star Trek’s most defining characters! It’s the Top 5 Janeway Episodes as we dive deep into the inspirational saga of Captain Katherine Janeway of the USS Voyager. Behind unparalleled leadership and decisive decision-making acumen, Janeway did it all in the face of unrivaled adversity. We cover the defining events and personal moments that characterize Janeway’s journey in guiding her crew safely home from the Delta Quadrant. It’s the perfect way to round out 100 episodes of TrekRanks! 

Top 5 Main Title Themes

Episode 99: with Jim Moorhouse, Carl Wonders & Debbi Moltisanti
Cue the orchestra and get ready for the first-ever episode of TrekRanks tackling the great music in Trek that we all love so much. We are choosing our Top 5 Main Title Themes in Trek history. The entire scope of Trek music from great composers like Jerry Goldsmith, Michael Giacchino and Dennis McCarthy is too much for one episode, so we are narrowing the list to Main Title Themes from each series and film. Our panel gets deep into the lore of the music of Trek in this huge episode of TrekRanks. 

Top 5 Episodes that Feel Like TOS

Episode 98: with Jim Moorhouse, Adam Hunault & Chris Burris
For the first time in TrekRanks history, we are doing a topic that flips the tables. Instead of choosing episodes from one specific series like we sometimes do, this time all of Trek is in play except for one series. It’s the Top 5 Episodes that Feel Like TOS, where we get deep into the lore of TOS by picking episodes from other incarnations of Trek that feel like TOS. This is a fun one for old school Trekkies and new fans alike. Don't miss it. 

Top 5 High-Concept TNG Episodes

Episode 97: with Jim Moorhouse, Claire Little & Amy Nelson
It’s peak 24th century Trek on this week’s TrekRanks Podcast as we ‘make it so’ in selecting our Top 5 High-Concept TNG Episodes. Host Jim Moorhouse is joined by Claire Little and Amy Nelson to contrast and compare many of TNG’s biggest and best episodes, as well as quite a few deep cuts. The comprehensive conversation engages TNG forays into big themes and epic sci-fi concepts, and the result is another great episode for fans of deep cut picks. 

Top 5 Cardassian Episodes

Episode 96: with Jim Moorhouse, Carlos Miranda & Ian Howse
“Attention Bajoran workers… failure to listen to this week’s episode of TrekRanks discussing the “Top 5 Cardassian Episodes” could result in your removal from the Detapa Council. This is a directive from Central Command in direct opposition of the Obsidian Order. Council chairman Jim Moorhouse and military advisors Carlos Miranda and Ian Howse break down their favorite episodes across the Cardassian Union, from the Chin’toka System to Cardassia Prime. Failure to comply would not be advised.” 

Top 5 Lower Decks Season 1 Moments

Episode 95: with Jim Moorhouse, Brooke Horton & Ron Wrobel
“It’s warp time!” Brilliant in concept, design and execution, Star Trek: Lower Decks is jampacked with heart, humor, story, emotion and references – and, of course, we break it all down in this week’s TrekRanks with our Top 5 Lower Decks Season 1 Moments. From the stellar cast to the expert animation, host Jim Moorhouse and guests Brooke Horton and Ron Wrobel run through every subtle jab and laugh-out-loud spit take from the hilarious new series. “Warp me!” 

Top 5 Cold Opens

Episode 94: with Jim Moorhouse, Jenn Tifft & Josh Zeller
It’s another deep cut special on TrekRanks as we take on the Top 5 Cold Opens across the history of Star Trek. A “cold open” is industry slang for the opening teaser in television storytelling that can do any number of things, but ultimately is designed to peak the viewer’s interest and keep them watching. In Trek, cold opens come in every shape and size and ton, and we break it all down with our expert panel of host Jim Moorhouse and guests Jenn Tifft and Josh Zeller. Hopefully you’ll listen all the way to the end on this one! 

Top 5 Scenes on Earth

Episode 93: with Jim Moorhouse, Jen Howse, Dana Kenedy, Daniel Martin & Lyrian McGregor
Star Trek is predominantly boldly going where no one has gone before, but there are also a bunch of episodes and scenes that take place right here on Sector 001. So, for this special episode of TrekRanks, we have guests from five different countries across the globe (Australia, Canada, England, the Korea Republic and the USA) joining us to break down our Top 5 Scenes on Earth. Our panel covers a ton of territory on terra prime in this classic “Scenes in Trek” episode of TrekRanks! 

Top 5 Buzzer Beaters

Episode 92: with Jim Moorhouse, Alex Perry & Abby Sommer
“10 seconds to structural failure. 9, 8 ...” We need you to listen to this week’s latest unique TrekRanks topic (the Top 5 Buzzer Beaters) to help us avoid structural TrekRanks failure! “7, 6, 5 …” From computer countdowns to near-miss anomalies to last-second heroics, there are no shortage of Buzzer Beaters throughout the history of Star Trek and we break it all down. “4, 3 …” Our expert panel take us through all the best close calls to make sure our structural integrity stays intact. “2, 1 …” Engage! 

Top 5 Twilight Zone Episodes of Trek

Episode 91: with Jim Moorhouse, Grace Moore & Ryan Riddle
You unlock this door with the key of imagination. Beyond it is an episode of TrekRanks dissecting the Top 5 Twilight Zone Episodes of Trek. This is a jam-packed show filled with scores of references and call-outs that connect two of the great franchises in science fiction history. (Honestly, you won’t believe how interwoven these shows are!) That’s the signpost up ahead! Your next stop, TrekRanks!  

Top 5 First Contact Moments

Episode 90: with Jim Moorhouse, Adam Sanders & Melanie
First contact. The first official encounter between representatives of two planets. It’s one of the Federation’s primary missions and we highlight it in our Top 5 First Contact Moments. There are lots of surprises this week, including a shout-out to the latest Trek series Lower Decks, whose primary mission just happens to be—second contact. First contact gems abound from TOS to Discovery. This is a can’t miss episode!  

Top 5 Movie Villains

Episode 89: with Jim Moorhouse, Carlos Miranda & Lee Hutchison
A classic TrekRanks topic to be sure. For the first time, we tackle a topic that only includes the 13 Star Trek films. Villains are a quintessential part of Star Trek and we dive deep into the films to analyze what makes a good one. And some of what we uncover in our Top 5 Movie Villains might just surprise you! Our expert panel make this a spirited episode of TrekRanks, and, as always, a fun one! This is an episode of TrekRanks that is definitely best served cold! 

Abstract H

Episode 88: with Jim Moorhouse, Kerry Purvis & John Krikorian
We get “abstract” for the second time on TrekRanks this week as we explore Abstract H. It’s definitely a unique and odd topic, and that is literally it. Just the letter “H.” Whatever that means to you in the world of Star Trek. A place, a character, a concept. It’s up to you. It’s Abstract H. Our expert panel get deep into the alphabet and break it all down in this fun, original topic! 

Top 5 Enterprise Guilty Pleasure Episodes

Episode 87: with Jim Moorhouse, Heather Kirby & Stephen Pastran
Our “guilty pleasure” series picks up again this week with our Top 5 Enterprise Guilty Pleasure Episodes. Obviously we never truly feel guilty watching any episode of Trek, since we love them all, but there are those episodes that may not exactly be Top 10 quality or for some reason have a reputation with the masses, but for whatever reason – we still love them. And that is a guilty pleasure! We get into the heart of the deep cuts of Enterprise in this fun episode! 

Top 5 Moments in Song

Episode 86: with Jim Moorhouse, Jenn Tifft & Justin Oser
Our “guilty pleasure” series picks up again this week with our Top 5 Enterprise Guilty Pleasure Episodes. Obviously we never truly feel guilty watching any episode of Trek, since we love them all, but there are those episodes that may not exactly be Top 10 quality or for some reason have a reputation with the masses, but for whatever reason – we still love them. And that is a guilty pleasure! We get into the heart of the deep cuts of Enterprise in this fun episode! 

Top 5 Cliffhangers

Episode 85: with Jim Moorhouse, Brooke Horton & Dominic Burgess
This week's special episode of TrekRanks not only features a classic Star Trek topic, but also a classic Star Trek guest. We tackle the Top 5 Cliffhangers on Episode 85 of TrekRanks and are joined by Brooke Horton and Dominic Burgess, the actor and Star Trek fanatic who played Mr. Vup on Star Trek: Picard. From big action moments to quiet character reveals, Trek cliffhangers come in all shapes and sizes, and our expert panel covers it all across 50-plus years. 

Top 5 Odo Episodes

Episode 84: with Jim Moorhouse, Hayley Stoddard & Dan Davidson
We celebrate the work of René Auberjonois on this week’s TrekRanks with the Top 5 Odo Episodes. As a renowned character actor for six decades, his reputation had been built long before he stepped into the weighty shoes of Deep Space Nine’s beloved constable. His passing in 2019 was an immeasurable loss for Trek, and on what would have been his 80th birthday (June 1, 2020) we dig deep into our favorite moments and episodes of everyone’s favorite changeling. 

Top 5 Scenes in Sickbay

Episode 83: with Jim Moorhouse, Katharine Robinson & Sam Nelson
Please state the nature of the medical emergency. The heart and soul of many a Star Trek episode through the years has taken place in sickbay, and on this week’s episode of TrekRanks we return to our Scenes in Trek series with our Top 5 Scenes in Sickbay. Whether it’s an old school sickbay or the DS9 infirmary or a triage situation somewhere, everything is in place for our panel! 

Top 5 Run of Five Episodes

Episode 82: with Jim Moorhouse, Bill Mann & Matt Hansen
We tackle more episodes than ever before on this week’s TrekRanks. It’s the Top 5 Run of Five Episodes, which means we are highlighting the best runs of five consecutive episodes in Trek history. Our guests each make 25 picks, so we break down 75 total episodes on this jam-packed show! Broadcast order, production order, in-universe chronological order – there are many ways to tackle this topic. This one is about all the big episodes and deep cuts, too! 

Top 5 "Sheltered in Place" Episodes

Episode 81: with Jim Moorhouse, Charlynn Schmiedt & Kerry Purvis
It’s the spring of 2020 and there is an unprecedented “stay at home” mandate not only in the United States, but all over Sector 001. To help add perspective to this unique time in our modern history, TrekRanks is looking at Star Trek’s Top 5 “Sheltered in Place” Episodes. There are a lot of “in universe” reasons for characters to be holed up together or individually – everything from weather to war to malfeasance. We have every corner of sequestered Trek covered this week! 

Top 5 Picard Season 1 Moments

Episode 80: with Jim Moorhouse, Alex Perry, Brooke Horton & Daniel Martin
Captain Picard returned in glorious and unexpected ways for the first season of Star Trek: Picard, the seventh live-action series in Star Trek history. We break it all down on Episode 80 of TrekRanks with our Top 5 Picard Season 1 Moments! Host Jim Moorhouse is joined by an expert panel featuring Alex Perry, Brooke Horton and Daniel Martin. From the woods of Viveen to deep inside the Artifact, we cover the journey of La Sirena and Picard’s new ragtag crew! 

Top 5 Comfort Food Episodes (Redux)

Episode 79: with Jim Moorhouse, Dana Kenedy & Matt Finbow
It’s a milestone episode for TrekRanks as we reach Episode 79 (the same number of TOS episodes). To celebrate we are tackling our first-ever do-over topic, going way back to Episode 1 of TrekRanks with our Top 5 Comfort Food Episodes (Redux). A “comfort food” episode speaks to you personally and can literally be anything to anyone! Host Jim Moorhouse and husband-and-wife team Matt Finbow and Dana Kenedy cover all the basis in this cozy, warm blanket of an episode! 

Top 5  Episodes Where the Ship Is a Character

Episode 78: with Jim Moorhouse, Patrick Escudero & Melanie
The ship is always there. Sometimes in the background and sometimes in the foreground. On this week’s TrekRanks we break down our Top 5 Episodes Where the Ship Is a Character (and by “ship,” of course, we mean anything: a hero ship, a one-off ship, a space station, a shuttle – whatever fits your Prime Directive). Host Jim Moorhouse and guests Patrick Escudero and Melanie go in a bunch of directions to narrow down their lists and dive into Trek lore. This topic is a fun one! 

Top 5 WTF Moments (with Bonus Top 3 Icheb Moments)

Episode 77: with Jim Moorhouse, Duncan Barrett & Clara Cook (and Alex Perry & Jenn Tifft)

What the F*%#?!? There has surely been plenty of times you’ve said that while watching Star Trek, and this week we break down the Top 5 WTF Moments in Trek history. Bizarro moments, shock twists, mind-blowing reveals – WTF Moments come in all shapes and sizes, and our panel gets into all the nitty gritty with their picks. The episode also features our first-ever TrekRanks Slipstream Round to cover a recent WTF Moment in Trek that we couldn’t miss out on! WTF? It’s all here! 

Top 5 Comedic Characters

Episode 76: with Jim Moorhouse, Thad Hait & Ron Worbel
Star Trek is funny. Don’t let anyone tell you any different, and it is filled with hilarious characters. This week on TrekRanks we put the spotlight on those characters that keep us laughing with our Top 5 Comedic Characters. From series regular to recurring to characters to one-off standouts, there is an entire universe of characters for our guests Thad Hait and Ron Worbel to choose from. Cue the laugh track! 

Top 5 Short Treks Moments

Episode 75: with Jim Moorhouse, Jenn Tifft & Josh Duffy
It’s a TrekRanks first as we dive into our Top 5 Short Treks Moments, the new platform for Trek to showcase one-off stories in all shapes and sizes. There have been 10 Shorts Treks through January 2020, and we cover them all with our expert panel of Jenn Tifft and Josh Duffy, along with host Jim Moorhouse. From Runaway to Children of Mars, it’s a deep dive episode of TrekRanks. 

Top 5 Picard Episodes

Episode 74: with Jim Moorhouse, Claire Little & Carlos Miranda
Our third and final episode of TrekRanks previewing the Star Trek: Picard series is as big a topic as we’ve ever tackled. This week it is our Top 5 Picard Episodes. He’s arguably the greatest character in Trek history, guided by an unrivaled moral compass and leadership qualities. Our panel covers the major events and quiet moments in equal measure, unleashing quite a few surprises along the way. This is essential TrekRanks. 

Top 5 Crossover Moments

Episode 73: with Jim Moorhouse, Jamie McGregor & Brooke Horton
In the second of three episodes of TrekRanks previewing the Star Trek: Picard series, we look at the Top 5 Crossover Moments in Trek history. It's all those great tangible moments when characters and actors from one series appear in an episode of another series. With Voyager’s Seven of Nine set to appear alongside Jean-Luc Picard, our panel goes deep into Trek lore to discuss some of the biggest crossovers ever seen in Trek. 

Top 5 Borg Episodes

Episode 72: with Jim Moorhouse, Jen Howse & Rob Chapman
Resistance is definitely not futile this week as we tackle our Top 5 Borg Episodes in the first of three shows previewing Star Trek: Picard, the seventh live action Trek series debuting in January 2020. The distinctiveness of our panels picks will be added to the collective of your hive mind as we breakdown the heavy hitters and the niche picks, making sure to leave no drone unturned. 

Top 5 Meta Trek References

Episode 71: with Jim Moorhouse, Bill Mann & Ross Webster
It's another deep-cut topic on TrekRanks as we dive into our Top 5 Meta Trek References. It's all about those little hidden moments inside of Trek where the writers, producers and actors wink at the audience and themselves, as they basically reference Star Trek the show – inside Star Trek the show. Two great TrekRanks veterans, Bill Mann and Ross Webster, join host Jim Moorhouse to dig deep into Trek’s 700-plus hours to create their unexpected lists.
 

Top 5 Scenes in a Cave

Episode 70: with Jim Moorhouse, Alex Perry & Debbie Moltisanti
There are so many Star Trek scenes in a cave! And we break down more than a few of them on this week’s TrekRanks with our Top 5 Scenes in a Cave! It’s the return of our Scenes in Trek series, and our expert panel of Jim Moorhouse, Alex Perry and Debbie Moltisanti is more than up to the task of spelunking into one of the all-time great Trek tropes. Planet Hell knows no bounds and no cave is too deep for us to highlight! This is a fun one! 

Top 5 Nog Episodes

Episode 69: with Jim Moorhouse, Carl Wonders & Jonathan
This week we celebrate the Top 5 Nog Episodes and everything Aron Eisenberg gave to us in his amazing portrayal of Starfleet’s favorite Ferengi. Nog was there from the beginning to the end of DS9, playing a critical role in grounding the series storytelling in family, love and loss. And as much as that was on the page, it was Eisenberg’s incredible skills that gave Nog life. We break down everything Nog with guests Carl Wonders and Jonfucius Online. If you love Trek, you'll love this celebration of Aron Eisenberg. 

Abstract Threes

Episode 68: with Jim Moorhouse, Brooke Horton & Geoff Owen
It’s probably our most unique TrekRanks topic yet. Three. That’s it (or Abstract Threes, to be more exact). Three of a kind. Three of something on screen. Three of something off screen. Three anything. Three whatever. Three. Abstract Threes. Our expert panel of host Jim Moorhouse and guests Brooke Horton and Geoff Owen, take three to heart and goes deep with their abstract picks on this fun, original topic. 

Top 5 Sneaky Good Episodes

Episode 67: with Jim Moorhouse, Jenn Tifft & Ron Worbel
Sometimes you just don't realize how good an episode is. And that's what this topic of Top 5 Sneaky Good Episodes is all about. These aren't necessarily underrated or guilty pleasures, they're those episodes that over time, after maybe not thinking much about them, that you suddenly realized are actually really, really good. They’re "Sneaky Good!" Of course, everyone has a different way to define Sneaky Good, so our picks from guests Jenn Tifft and Ron Worbel cover every angle of Trek. 

Top 5 T'Pol Episodes

Episode 66: with Jim Moorhouse, Dana Kenedy & Melanie
Scientist, ambassador and loyal compatriot of the NX-01 Enterprise crew. Once you sit down & analyze everything Sub-commander T’Pol achieved on Enterprise, you realize she is one of the most accomplished characters in Star Trek history. This week we jump into our Top 5 T’Pol Episodes, with host Jim Moorhouse and guests Dana Kenedy and Melanie, to highlight the moments throughout Star Trek: Enterprise that helped define her fight against right and wrong. 

Top 5 Villains Who Weren't Really Villains

Episode 65: with Jim Moorhouse, Adam Hunault & Josh Zeller
It’s a quintessential plank in the Star Trek platform: Villains Who Weren’t Really Villains. This week’s TrekRanks could not be any more Star Trek, as our expert panel of Adam Hunault and Josh Zeller join host Jim Moorhouse to get deep into Star Trek lore. It’s a fun and pointed episode of TrekRanks as more than a few of our “Not Really Villains” picks challenge the status quo and spark the kind of debate rarely seen on TrekRanks. Don’t miss this one. 

Top 5 DS9 Underrated

Episode 64: with Jim Moorhouse, Carlos Miranda & Lee Hutchison
Our “Underrated Series” continues with our Top 5 DS9 Underrated by celebrating the unheralded elements of Star Trek: Deep Space Nine. This great series is anything but underrated, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t segments of it that haven’t received their due. We break it in five distinct categories: production design, performer, Dabo round, character and episode! Our panel gets into the nitty-gritty of some of the shows most underrated moments. 

Top 5 Costumes

Episode 63: Live from STLV

This week’s episode is our second annual live STLV show. And the topic is perfect as we breakdown our Top 5 Costumes. There is an array of dresses, outfits and EV suits from which to choose, but our panel cuts through the fabric of space-time with a canvas of broad overarching selections and deep cut picks. It’s an epic episode of TrekRanks featuring the most ranks ever! Featuring Jim Moorhouse, Claire Little, Ken Reilly, Adam Drosin, Jordan Hoffman & Alexander Perry.​
 

Top 5 Trek Pets

Episode 62: with Jim Moorhouse, Claire Little & Sue Kisenwether

Our furry family takes center stage as TrekRanks highlights our Top 5 Trek Pets. Well, to be fair, this week’s selections are not all furry, but they are all beloved animal friends. Our highlight of favorite Trek pets coincides with Clear The Shelters Day as we encourage everyone to add a new family member to your household, and to adopt, not shop. Sue Kisenwether of Women at Warp & Claire Little join us to celebrate Trek Pets with a variety of four-legged friends!​
 

Top 5 Hangout Spots

Episode 61: with Jim Moorhouse & Adam Drosin

Where do you want to hang out in the Star Trek universe? There are so many options, it’s hard to choose! We’ll help you narrow it down on this week’s TrekRanks as we get into the nitty-gritty of Trek’s Top 5 Hangout Spots! From the social to the non-social locations, and from the quiet hole-in-the-wall restaurants to bustling bars and rec rooms, we have it all covered! You won’t need reservations, just hit play and enjoy.​
 

Top 5 Scenes on Location

Episode 60: with Jim Moorhouse, John Tenuto & Alex Perry

Our Scenes in Trek continues with our Top 5 Scenes on Location. Host Jim Moorhouse and frequent guest Alexander Perry are joined by legendary Star Trek historian John Tenuto for a topic that is tailor made for his expertise. The choices range from the epic to the subtle and the grandiose to the pragmatic. Both deep cut and iconic picks abound as we highlight some of the best location shoots in Star Trek history.​
 

Top 5 Series Doctors

Episode 59: with Jim Moorhouse, Jen Howse & Chris Burris

I’m a doctor, not a mathematician! Well, this week you're a mathematician, because TrekRanks is ranking our Top 5 Series Doctors! This medical emergency will see us highlight our favorites among the six series regular doctors: Leonard McCoy, Beverly Crusher, Julian Bashir, The Doctor, Phlox & Hugh Culber. With this being a finite topic, we’ll go through each of our doctors and name an episode or moment that we love about that character. Once the dermal regenerator kicks in, we’ll rank our selections in The Order of Things!​
 

Top 5 Road Trips

Episode 58: with Jim Moorhouse, Debbie Moltisanti & Jamie McGregor

This week we are packing up our runabout and powering up the impulse engines to discuss our Top 5 Road Trips in Star Trek. So whether you are departing Sector 001 in a shuttlecraft or hiking through the Vulcan Forge with a friend, there are an infinite number of ways to approach this fun topic. Host Jim Moorhouse and guests Debbie Moltisanti and Jamie McGregor discover more than a few short cuts on their trip deep into the Trek archive.​
 

Top 5 Underappreciated Characters

Episode 57: with Jim Moorhouse, Heather Barker & Rick Everson

We’ve done “underrated” topics on TrekRanks, but “underappreciated” is something very different. The conversation goes deep this week as we dive into our Top 5 Underappreciated Characters, where a number of interesting trends are uncovered with our picks. Host Jim Moorhouse is joined by Heather Barker and Rick Everson to tackle this fascinating topic, which has each of our panelists going in different directions with their selections.​
 

Top 5 Shapes

Episode 56: with Jim Moorhouse, Ross Webster & Jenn Tifft

It’s peak TrekRanks this week as we dive into one of those odd-ball topics that you won’t hear anywhere else. This week we are breaking down our Top 5 Shapes. It’s that simple. What Star Trek shapes have always resonated with you? Basically everything is eligible for selection this week, so get ready for a unique TrekRanks conversation as host Jim Moorhouse is joined by SnapTrek Podcast duo Jenn Tiff and Ross Webster to take on this fun topic.​
 

Top 5 Discovery Season 2 Moments

Episode 55: with Jim Moorhouse, Heather Kirby & Alex Perry

Pretty safe to say Star Trek: Discovery's second season most definitely went where no Trek had gone before. And on this week’s TrekRanks Podcast we break down our Top 5 Discovery Season 2 Moments in five distinct categories: production design, performer, wildcard Dabo round, character and episode! TrekRanks regulars Alex Perry and Heather Kirby join host Jim Moorhouse to dissect the amazing developments in a unique season of Trek that broke new ground and dove deep into established Trek lore.​
 

5 Episode Marathon for a Rainy Day

Episode 54: with Jim Moorhouse, Foz Rotten & Brittany Feury

It’s time to get your Star Trek and chill on with TrekRanks as we breakdown our 5 Episode Marathon for a Rainy Day. It’s that simple. Host Jim Moorhouse is relaxing and kicking back with guests Foz Rotten and Brittany Feury to contrast and compare our Trek marathons. If you’re a Star Trek fan, then you definitely know how to marathon some episodes! So get your snacks ready and get ready for some deep cuts as we get into this week’s show!​
 

Top 5 Neelix Episodes

Episode 53: with Jim Moorhouse & Brandon-Shea Mutala

It’s time to get your Star Trek and chill on with TrekRanks as we breakdown our 5 Episode Marathon for a Rainy Day. It’s that simple. Host Jim Moorhouse is relaxing and kicking back with guests Foz Rotten and Brittany Feury to contrast and compare our Trek marathons. If you’re a Star Trek fan, then you definitely know how to marathon some episodes! So get your snacks ready and get ready for some deep cuts as we get into this week’s show!​
 

Top 5 Scenes in a Brig

Episode 52: with Jim Moorhouse, Scott Matteson & Rick Tetrault

You have been confined to your quarters for the duration of this podcast to listen to our Top 5 Scenes in a Brig, the latest in our “Scenes in Trek” series. Brigs on Star Trek are oft-seen and oft-heard, and we get deep into the lore of Trek’s most famous holding cells with host Jim Moorhouse and guests Scott Matteson and Rick Tetrault. No location is too deep for us to explore in our “Scenes in Trek” series.​
 

Top 5 'ships, Part 2

Episode 51: with Jim Moorhouse, Charlynn Schmiedt & Bill Mann

The 50-episode celebration of TrekRanks continues with our Top 5 ‘ships (no, not spaceships; you can find that in the previous episode). This is Episode 51 and we are highlighting our favorite “will they or won’t they” relationships! Long-term couples, one-time couples or never-wear couples are all eligible as we break it down with veteran TrekRanks guests Charlynn Schmiedt and Bill Mann, who join host Jim Moorhouse to play matchmaker.​
 

Top 5 Ships, Part 1

Episode 50: with Jim Moorhouse, Charlynn Schmiedt & Bill Mann

To celebrate our 50th episode we tackle two popular topics in a special two-part episode of TrekRanks! Part 1 is our Top 5 Ships and Part 2 is our Top 5 ‘ships! Yep. It’s your favorite space-faring vessels and your favorite “will they or won’t they” relationships! It’s a lot to cover, which is why we’ve broken it into two different episodes and brought in the talented Charlynn Schmiedt and Bill Mann to join host Jim Moorhouse in an epic analysis.​