Talking Trek: Starfleet Academy Episode 2 Beta Test with Griffin, Bek and Bubba Joe

00:00 – Show intro, Episode 2 framing, and community welcome

05:35 – Initial reactions to “Beta Test” and slower pacing vs Episode 1

11:10 – Betazoid canon discussion: telepathy, eyes, and cultural norms

16:45 – Tarima’s neural inhibitor and fear of her own abilities

22:20 – Starfleet Academy vs War College explained post-Burn

27:55 – Caleb’s leadership arc and why he avoids the War College path

33:30 – Raimi (“Fish Boy”) and the struggle to define his role

39:05 – Comedy beats: Borg gag, barefoot Chancellor, and visual humor

44:40 – Is this still Star Trek? Tone shift and generational appeal

50:15 – Romance tension: Tarima, Caleb, Genesis, and teen-drama tropes

01:01:25 – 90210 comparisons and “college dramedy” intentionality

01:07:00 – Kurtzman-era Trek, Discovery DNA, and legacy expectations

01:12:35 – Writing strengths, character chemistry, and standout performances

01:18:10 – Episode 2 final thoughts and narrative direction going forward

01:23:45 – Closing remarks, audience reactions, and Episode 3 anticipation