Continuing Conversations: Sci-Fi Storytelling & Star Trek Adventures

Studio Tembo
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Where does the game end and the story begin? Continuing Conversations is your weekly deep dive into the art of Science Fiction storytelling, narrative design, and the creative process—hosted by Michael Dismuke and Jim Johnson. While our roots are firmly planted in the Star Trek Adventures RPG, our mission has expanded. We are exploring how Sci-Fi worlds are built, how characters are forged, and how stories are told across every medium. Whether you are a Gamemaster crafting a campaign, an aspiring novelist, or a fan of deep lore, we bring you the insights you need to fuel your imagination. Produced by Studio Tembo, this show is dedicated to "Infinite Stories in Infinite Combinations." Whether you're rolling dice or writing chapters, let's continue the conversation. https://linktr.ee/studiotembo Science Fiction Writing, Narrative Design, Star Trek Adventures, Creative Writing, RPG Design, World Building, Sci-Fi Authors, Jim Johnson, Michael Dismuke, Studio Tembo, Speculative Fiction, Tabletop RPGs, Game Writing, Storytelling.

  1. 5D AGO

    Developing Your Voice Across Mediums with Award-Winning Creator Derek Kirk Kim

    In this episode of Continuing Conversations, we sit down with acclaimed cartoonist and animation director Derek Kirk Kim to explore a creative journey that moves seamlessly between indie comics and major animated series. From his Eisner and Harvey Award-winning work on Same Difference and Other Stories to his time directing on Amphibia, Derek shares how his approach to storytelling has evolved while staying rooted in deeply human moments. We dive into his early childhood memories—including a surprise reunion with host Michael Dismuke from their 4th-grade days—and discuss how his experience as an immigrant influenced his connection to characters like Data from Star Trek: The Next Generation. Whether you are an aspiring artist or a fan of visual storytelling, this conversation uncovers what it really means to grow as a creator without losing your voice. GET YOUR DEREK KIRK KIM BOOKS FROM ADVENTURE INK! https://adventureink.xyz/browse/filter/t/Derek%20Kirk%20Kim/k/keyword Chapters/Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction to Continuing Conversations 01:13 – Meet Derek Kirk Kim: Cartoonist, Animator, and Director 02:14 – A 4th Grade Reunion: Michael and Derek’s Shared History 03:38 – Coming to America: Early Memories and Language Barriers 06:50 – Star Trek Resonance: Why Data Matters to Derek 08:43 – Host Favorites: Seven of Nine and Benjamin Sisko 10:55 – Exploring Deep Space Nine and the Growth of the Franchise CONNECT WITH THE HOSTS: Michael Dismuke: Freelance writer for Star Trek Adventures RPG. Visit him at MichaelDismuke.com. Jim Johnson: Project manager for Star Trek Adventures and Fallout RPGs at Modiphius. PRE-ORDER YOUR COPY OF STAR TREK TIMELINES TODAY https://adventureink.xyz/item/hB2UM6Mk2YEpRS8_RBqmkg FIND MORE FROM STUDIO TEMBO https://linktr.ee/StudioTembo

    1h 13m

  2. MAY 8

    From Novel to Film Deal with Author Nova McBee

    Unlock the Secrets of Global Storytelling with Author Nova McBee!  How do you turn real-world adventures into an international bestselling series? In this episode of Continuing Conversations, we sit down with Nova McBee, the powerhouse author and screenwriter behind the hit young adult thriller series, Calculated. Drawing from over 20 years of living in China, Asia, and the Middle East, Nova reveals how her cross-cultural life shaped her "oak tree" stories—books designed to last for generations. Whether you're an aspiring writer, a Star Trek fan, or curious about the future of media, this interview is packed with actionable insights on the publishing industry and the creative process. In this episode, we dive into:     • The "Calculated" Journey: Nova shares the 13-year path of bringing her math-prodigy thriller to life and the news about the upcoming film adaptation.     • The Future of Entertainment: As the CCO of Y Plus X Entertainment, Nova explains the $15 billion vertical film industry and why storytelling for mobile phones is the next big frontier.     • Writing for Crossover Audiences: How she intentionally crafts stories that resonate with everyone from 12-year-olds to 80-year-old book clubs and a massive male demographic.     • The "Contender" Mindset: Why Nova spent years perfecting her craft and studying the publishing business before ever trying to get published.     • Star Trek Inspiration: How the partnership of Kirk and Spock influenced her views on cross-cultural collaboration and massive adventure. ABOUT OUR GUEST Nova McBee is a multi-talented author, screenwriter, and Chief Creative Officer. Her Calculated series is described as The Count of Monte Cristo meets Mission Impossible, featuring math prodigies, international smugglers, and high-stakes redemption. ORDER NOVA MCBEE'S BOOKS FROM ADVENTURE INK https://adventureink.xyz/browse/filter/t/%20Nova%20McBee/k/keyword CONNECT WITH THE HOSTS:     • Michael Dismuke: Freelance writer for Star Trek Adventures RPG. Visit him at MichaelDismuke.com.     • Jim Johnson: Project manager for Star Trek Adventures and Fallout RPGs at Modiphius. PRE-ORDER YOUR COPY OF STAR TREK TIMELINES TODAY https://adventureink.xyz/item/hB2UM6Mk2YEpRS8_RBqmkg FIND MORE FROM STUDIO TEMBO https://linktr.ee/StudioTembo CHAPTERS 00:00 – Intro: Infinite Stories and Infinite Combinations    02:00 – Star Trek Roots: Kirk, Spock, and the Pioneer Spirit    04:30 – Behind the Scenes: Chief Creative Officer at Y Plus X Entertainment    05:55 – The Rise of Vertical Film: A $15 Billion Industry    08:50 – Writing "Oak Tree" Stories vs. "Flower" Stories    09:40 – The Calculated Series: Mission Impossible meets Count of Monte Cristo    11:50 – International Living as a Foundation for Authentic YA    13:30 – Becoming a "Contender": Perfecting the Craft and the Business #NovaMcBee #CalculatedSeries #WritingCommunity #VerticalFilm #AuthorInterview #StarTrekFans #YAFiction #PublishingTips #Screenwriting #ContinuingConversations

    51 min

  3. MAY 1

    Star Trek Timelines: The Ultimate 60th Anniversary Guide | DK Books Reveal & RPG Tips

    The definitive Star Trek history is finally here! Join the "Trekstorians"—Derek Tyler Attico, Kelli Fitzpatrick, Jim Johnson, and Michael Dismuke—for an exclusive look at the groundbreaking new release from DK Books: Star Trek Timelines. Launching November 3, 2026, for the Star Trek 60th Anniversary, this 336-page hardcover masterwork charts the entire franchise history from the Big Bang to the end of the universe. We’re diving into the Prime Universe, the Mirror Universe, the Kelvin Timeline, and even the "Year of Hell." Plus, we show you exactly how to use this book to level up your Star Trek Adventures RPG campaigns! In this episode, we explore: The Breadth of Trek: Covering everything from The Original Series to Strange New Worlds and Starfleet Academy. Character Evolutions: Deep dives into Michael Burnham, Jean-Luc Picard, and more. Alternate Realities: Navigating the complex timelines of the Multiverse. RPG Integration: How to use these 336 pages of lore for worldbuilding in Star Trek Adventures. Pre-order Star Trek Timelines here: Shop Adventure Ink Studio Tembo 0:00 The Big Announcement: Star Trek Timelines 02:30 Meet the Trekstorians: Writing the Lore 05:45 Inside the 336-Page Hardcover from DK Books 10:20 From TOS to Starfleet Academy: What’s Included? 15:10 The Mirror Universe & Kelvin Timelines 20:45 Level Up Your Star Trek Adventures RPG Games 25:30 Release Date & Pre-Order Details

    1h 2m

  4. APR 24

    Mirroring Our World: How Science Fiction Illuminates Reality with Dr. Una McCormack

    Dr. Una McCormack is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling science fiction author known for bringing depth, politics, and humanity to some of the genre’s most beloved universes. With more than twenty novels, she has written acclaimed stories for Star Trek, Doctor Who, and Firefly, including Star Trek: Picard – The Last Best Hope and the autobiographies of Spock and Kathryn Janeway.  An academic with a PhD in sociology and a longtime lecturer in creative writing, Una blends rigorous thought with compelling storytelling, exploring themes of identity, power, and culture within science fiction worlds.  Her work has earned numerous award nominations and widespread praise from fans and critics alike, making her one of the most respected voices writing in modern science fiction tie-in fiction today.  On this episode, we talk with Una about the craft of writing in iconic universes, what makes Star Trek such fertile ground for storytelling, and how great science fiction can illuminate the world we live in. https://linktr.ee/studiotembo

    51 min

  5. APR 17

    Sci-fi Storytelling Craft

    Two writers. Two vantage points. One honest conversation about breaking into science fiction. In this episode, Jim and I sit down with Candace Kade, an experienced voice in the field, and Kyra Walters, a new writer navigating the path to publication. Together, we dig into flash sci-fi, storytelling craft, and the real questions every writer asks when starting out—cutting through the noise with candid insights, practical advice, and a few Star Trek detours along the way.

    52 min

  6. APR 10

    15 years of Star Trek Online

    Thomas Marrone flies back in to Continuing Conversations to talk about 15 years of Star Trek Online goodness! For a quarter of Trek's existence, Thomas and team have been creating a portal into the Trek universe via STO for hundreds of thousands of video gamers. Now in lead of STO development, we dive into the stories that have riveted new and old Trek fans and keep them coming back for more. Also, we will take a look at some of the ships that have warped out of STO and onto our television screens!

    59 min

  7. APR 3

    Star Trek Voyager comics from IDW Publishing

    Susan and Tilly Bridges grace us with their presence as they give us the dish on their run on Star Trek Voyager comics from IDW Publishing. Ever wish for that 8th season of Voyager? Well, here it is in comic form!

    58 min

  8. MAR 27

    From Star Trek to Gilmore Girls: A Life in Pop Culture with Laurie Ulster

    Today on Continuing Conversations, we’re joined by Laurie Ulster—a New York-based writer, freelance journalist, TV producer, and seasoned copy editor whose work spans digital, print, audio, and television. Laurie’s bylines have appeared in outlets like Biography, ScreenRant, CBS Watch, and TrekMovie.com, and she’s a Senior Editor and podcast co-host for All Access Star Trek, blending deep fandom with insightful cultural commentary. She’s the author of Gilmore Girls Life Lessons and many essays on entertainment, pop culture, parenting, and lifestyle. She brings a unique blend of wit, expertise, and passion to every conversation. https://linktr.ee/studiotembo

    1h 6m
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Ratings & Reviews

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5 Ratings

About

Where does the game end and the story begin? Continuing Conversations is your weekly deep dive into the art of Science Fiction storytelling, narrative design, and the creative process—hosted by Michael Dismuke and Jim Johnson. While our roots are firmly planted in the Star Trek Adventures RPG, our mission has expanded. We are exploring how Sci-Fi worlds are built, how characters are forged, and how stories are told across every medium. Whether you are a Gamemaster crafting a campaign, an aspiring novelist, or a fan of deep lore, we bring you the insights you need to fuel your imagination. Produced by Studio Tembo, this show is dedicated to "Infinite Stories in Infinite Combinations." Whether you're rolling dice or writing chapters, let's continue the conversation. https://linktr.ee/studiotembo Science Fiction Writing, Narrative Design, Star Trek Adventures, Creative Writing, RPG Design, World Building, Sci-Fi Authors, Jim Johnson, Michael Dismuke, Studio Tembo, Speculative Fiction, Tabletop RPGs, Game Writing, Storytelling.

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