Exploring Humanity Through Sci-Fi

Inside Surreal Estate: Tennille Read Unpacks Haunted Houses, On-Set Bonds, and Flirting With the Paranormal

Welcome to another episode of Exploring Humanity Through Sci-Fi. Today, we’re taking you back to season one of Surreal Estate, the hit SyFy series that puts a supernatural spin on haunted house real estate. Host Tony Tellado sits down with special guest Tennille Read, who played Megan Donovan, a pragmatic and skeptical med student who inherits a mysteriously haunted house with a life of its own. Tennille dives into what it was like bringing Megan to life—a character torn between logic and the paranormal—as she navigates spooky occurrences, a tangled love life, and a not-so-average real estate agent, Luke Roman.

Tennille shares behind-the-scenes stories about the striking set, working opposite Tim Rozon, and how the show skillfully blends horror, humor, and genuine heart. We also get an insider peek at on-set special effects, the challenges of filming during the height of COVID-19 in the hauntingly beautiful St. John’s, Newfoundland, and teases about Megan’s journey as she confronts both haunted hallways and her own personal crossroads. 

 

Start Your Free Trial For Sci-Fi Talk Plus Today

The Inner Light’s Lasting Legacy: Reflections with Star Trek’s Richard Riehle

Welcome to Trek Tuesday on Exploring Humanity Through Sci-Fi, where I dive deep into all things Star Trek.  In this episode, host Tony Tellado celebrates one of the most beloved Star Trek: The Next Generation episodes—“The Inner Light.” Partly inspired by a George Harrison Beatles song and rooted in Taoist philosophy, “The Inner Light” takes Captain Picard on a powerful journey as he lives 4o years of the life of the scientist Kamin.

Joining Tony is actor Richard Riehle, known for playing Kamin’s close friend Batai , who shares behind-the-scenes stories about the making of this iconic episode, his experiences working alongside Patrick Stewart, and the camaraderie built on set. Richard also reminisces about his time on Star Trek: Voyager and the unforgettable moments he shared with the cast. Plus, we reflect on the legacy of Picard’s Ressikan flute and “The Inner Light’s” lasting impact on Star Trek fans and the franchise as a whole. 

Start Your Free Trial On Sci-Fi Talk Plus, Today. 

From Nuclear Paranoia to Giant Ants: Revisiting the Classic Sci-Fi Film Them

Welcome to today’s episode of Exploring Humanity Through Sci-Fi,  where I dive deep into the world of science fiction to understand ourselves a little better. In this special installment, I take us on a nostalgic journey back to the atomic age with a spotlight on the classic 1954 film, Them. Against the backdrop of 1950s nuclear paranoia, Them pits humanity against giant, mutated ants in a chilling cautionary tale about the unintended consequences of nuclear testing. We’ll explore the film’s plot, its standout cast—featuring names like James Whitmore, James Arness, and even a young Leonard Nimoy—and the pioneering production techniques that brought these monstrous creatures to life before the age of CGI. We’ll also uncover fascinating behind-the-scenes details, discuss the film’s critical reception and lasting legacy, and trace its influence on everything from Japanese kaiju flicks to modern video games and pop culture.

Start Your Free One Year Trial At Sci-Fi Talk Plus today

Ryan Coogler on Sinners: Crafting a Love Letter to Cinema and Musical Legacy

Today, we dive behind the scenes of "Sinners" with its visionary writer, producer, and director, Ryan Coogler. Coogler shares how this film serves as his personal love letter to cinema, weaving together life lessons and his own journey into fatherhood and self-discovery. We'll hear about the casting challenges, including how newcomer Miles Caton, landed the pivotal role of Sammie, and why Michael B. Jordan’s dual performance as twins breaks new ground in his career. Plus, Coogler reveals the deep collaboration with composer Ludwig Goranson and the emotional resonance of filming on location in Mississippi. Discover why "Sinners" is being shot in IMAX, and how Coogler’s unique vision is elevating overlooked stories and voices to larger-than-life status on the big screen. Stay tuned as we uncover the artistry and passion fueling one of the year's most anticipated movies.

Start Your Free One Year Trial To Sci-Fi Talk Plus Today

Inside the Making of Sinners: Michael B. Jordan Talks Twins, Trauma, and Transformation

Michael B. Jordan to discuss his adventurous dual role as twins in the film “Smoke and Stack” in Sinners. Michael shares the creative process behind bringing two very different brothers to life, from using music and movement to embodying contrasting personalities. He also opens up about the emotional toll and rewarding collaboration with longtime friend and director Ryan Coogler, and how a unique approach to music on set brought the film’s world to life. Get ready for an inside look at a project that pushes boundaries and promises to take audiences on a real ride.

Start Your Free One Year Trial On Sci-Fi Talk Plus, Today

Purple Stride with Trek Stars: Research, Resilience, and Building Supportive Communities

Welcome to the latest episode of Exploring Humanity Through Sci-Fi, where we dive into a special cause close to the heart of these Star Trek actors raising awareness and funds in the fight against pancreatic cancer. This episode brings together an extraordinary panel: Team Trek captain Kitty Swink, her husband Armin Shimerman, Jonathan Frakes, John Billingsly, and Juan Carlos Coto, joined by host Tony Tellado. They share a candid and heartfelt conversation about their personal experiences with pancreatic cancer, the progress being made in research and patient care, and the power of coming together—whether it's at the annual Purple Stride walk or by supporting Pancan.org online. You'll hear stories of loss, hope, community, and the drive to make a difference, not only for those battling pancreatic cancer but also for families and caregivers. The team discusses advancements like robotic Whipple surgery, the importance of early detection, and how organizations like PanCAN are changing the landscape through research and support. It’s an episode filled with warmth, humor, advocacy, and an unbreakable sense of camaraderie. So whether you’re a Trek fan, someone touched by cancer, or simply inspired by people uniting for a good cause, this conversation is one you won’t want to miss.

purplestride.org/teamtrek

Sci-Fi Castings and Predictions for 2025 Emmy Awards On This Week's Explore Weekly

Welcome to another exciting episode of the Sci-Fi Talk Plus,with this episode, of Explore Weekly for April 17, 2025, packed with the latest news from around the internet. We'll kick things off with the latest updates on popular shows like "The Last of Us," which has seen a significant uptick in viewers for its second season. We'll also share some exciting casting news, including "Black Phone 2" adding Anna Law to its lineup and "Godzilla X Kong" welcoming Alicia Debnam Carey to the Monsterverse.. I dive into Emmy predictions for 2025, discuss the buzzing sequel to "Black Mirror: USS Callister," and hear from actors like Paul Giamatti and Will Poulter on their roles in the acclaimed "Black Mirror" series. Plus, get the scoop on  comics, including Zack Snyder's "Rebel Moon" prequel and Doctor Who's "Robot Revolution."season debut. Finally, we'll say goodbye to Diego Luna as he wraps up his iconic role in "Andor" and revisit some surprising actors who graced the "Star Wars" universe. Tune in to explore the stories and characters that capture our imaginations and shape our understanding of what it means to be human.

Start Your Free One Year Trial at Sci-Fi Talk Plus today.

Supergirl Season 3: Prioritizing Identity, Exploring Relationships, and Balancing Heroic Duties

Today on rewind and a delve into the highlights and intricacies of Supergirl Season Three. Join host Tony Tellado as he converses with series stars including Melissa Benoist, Jeremy Jordan, Mehcad Brooks, and David Harewood. Listen in as they explore Supergirl's journey through grief, identity, and complex relationships, while grappling with new villains and fascinating plot points such as parallel universes and iconic comic book adaptations. In this episode, they also touch on evolving character dynamics, iconic costumes, the addition of new Martian characters, and fan-favorite musical episodes. For fans of sci-fi, comics, and superhero narratives, this is an episode filled with insightful reflections and behind-the-scenes anecdotes from the talented cast of Supergirl. Tune in and relive the adventures of Kara Zor-El as we explore the human side of our favorite super-powered heroes.

Start Your Free One Year Trial Today On Sci-Fi Talk Plus

Rod Roddenberry Reflects on His Father's Impact and The Timelessness of Star Trek

Welcome to a captivating episode of the Sci-Fi Talk Podcast, where I celebrate the profound legacy of Star Trek on Trek Tuesday. In this special edition, host Tony Tellado chatted with Rod Roddenberry, to delve into the visionary world of his father, Gene Roddenberry. They explore the enduring influence of Star Trek, its message of infinite diversity, and how it continues to shape our understanding of humanity. Rod shares personal anecdotes about Gene Roddenberry's genius and the challenges of humanizing his father for audiences. The episode covers the impact of Star Trek's diverse narrative on our cultural landscape. Get ready for a heartfelt journey through time, celebrating the past, present, and future of one of science fiction's most beloved universes.

Start Your Free One Year Trial At Sci-Fi Talk Plus

Why Forbidden Planet Changed Sci-Fi Forever

In this episode of Exploring Humanity Through Sci-Fi, I take a deep dive  into the groundbreaking 1956 classic Forbidden Planet—a film that didn’t just define a genre, but reshaped it. 🎬

Let's explore:

• 🚀 The futuristic story that reimagined Shakespeare’s The Tempest

• 🎭 A legendary cast including Leslie Nielsen, Walter Pidgeon, and Anne Francis

• 🤖 The creation and legacy of Robby the Robot—science fiction’s first true mechanical star

• 🛠️ Innovative production choices, visual effects, and set designs that inspired Star Trek, Doctor Who, The Twilight Zone, and more

• 🎶 The pioneering electronic score that broke all the rules—and almost got banned from the Oscars

• 📚 The deeper meanings and metaphors behind the monster, the Krell, and Morbius's mind

Whether you're a lifelong fan or discovering it for the first time, this deep dive into Forbidden Planet will give you a newfound appreciation for its timeless impact on science fiction storytelling.

🎧 Listen now and discover why this film still influences your favorite shows and movies today!

Start Your Free One Year Trial To Sci-Fi Talk Plus Now!!