No Win Scenario

Trevor Chamberlain and Don Schechter
  • 5.0 (6)
  • TV & Film

Two Friends Who Hate Each Other -  Talking Science Fiction Star Trek, Dune, Babylon 5, The Expanse, Star Wars, Neon Genesis Evangelion and more — we are your gateway to science fiction entertainment. As we spar over diverse perspectives and dissect popular narratives, you'll be passionately divided, loving and loathing us in equal measure. Tune in as yours hosts, Don and Trevor, engage with industry experts to explore the day-to-day realities of production and the increasing prominence of mental health concerns in the film and television industry. Our initial guests include: Dave Blass (Production Designer, Star Trek Picard) Liz Kloczkowski (Art Director, Star Trek Picard) Todd A. Marks (Computer/Video Playback Supervisor, Star Trek Picard) Jeremy Benning (Cinematographer, The Expanse) Kent Sanderson (President, Acquisitions and Ancillary Distribution at Bleecker Street) David Mack (NY Times Best Selling Author, Star Trek: Picard: Firewall) Jenny R Johnson (Artist) Derek Tyler Attico (Award winning Author, The Autobiography of Benjamin Sisko) Brian Tamm (Executive Director, Boston Independent Film Festival) Todd E. Slayton, Cathy Debono, Robin Morselli, Mark Lentry,  (Star Trek Deep Space Nine) Created by Trevor Chamberlain and Don Schechter ©2024 Charles River Media Inc

  1. 14h ago

    313 - Don's Away Mission With Matt Witten

    (00:00:00) Don's Away Mission Begins (00:00:57) Introducing Matt Witten: A Dystopian Author (00:01:47) The Birth of 51 Percent (00:03:30) Privatization of Everything (00:09:10) The Crime Marketing Expert (00:15:51) World-Building and Details (00:18:13) Adapting 51 Percent for TV (00:22:34) Writing Advice and Future Projects (00:26:14) Wrapping Up and Contact Information What If Corporations Owned Everything?  Matt Witten on 51% Author Matt Witten joins No Win Scenario to discuss his dystopian novel 51%, a police procedural set in a privatized America where corporations own nearly everything — including people.In this episode, Don Schechter talks with Matt about the real-world fears behind 51%, how corporate power and privatization shaped the novel’s world, and why a crime story was the perfect way to explore a dystopian future. The conversation dives into world building, police procedurals, character perspectives, crime marketing, writing advice, and the strange irony of adapting an anti-corporate story for television with help from a major corporation.Whether you’re a fan of dystopian fiction, crime novels, political thrillers, sci-fi, or writing craft, this conversation explores how speculative fiction can turn today’s anxieties into gripping storytelling.No Win Scenario is a science fiction podcast hosted by Don Schechter and Trevor Chamberlain: two friends who hate each other, talking sci-fi. Episode: 313 Runtime: 26:59 Guest: Matt Witten In this episode: Matt Witten on the origin of 51%A dystopian America ruled by corporate powerPrivatized police, institutions, housing, and identityBuilding a believable future through small detailsWhy a police procedural fits the world of 51%Crime marketing and corporate-controlled justiceWriting dystopian fiction without overwhelming readersAdapting novels for televisionAdvice for writers: write what you love and trust your voiceChapters: 00:00 Introduction to Matt Witten and his work 01:22 The origins of the idea for 51% and real-world parallels 03:20 The privatization of police and other institutions 04:52 Deep fears and societal concerns inspiring dystopian fiction 06:03 Political and corporate trends in storytelling 08:06 Why a police procedural fits the dystopian world 09:02 The concept of crime marketing in the novel 10:53 World-building details: Reagan’s apartments and more 11:12 Creating a no-win scenario to drive the story 13:04 Character perspectives and nuance in storytelling 16:26 Balancing detail and readability in world building 18:23 Adapting a novel to TV 20:53 The irony of a corporate-funded anti-corporate story 25:07 Advice for writers: follow your passion and trust your voiceWebsite: https://www.nowinscenariopodcast.com Don says: Order the Ascendants novel: https://ascendantsbook.com/ Trevor says: Watch Front Row Reactions https://www.youtube.com/@frontrowreactions Email: NoWinScenarioPodcast@gmail.com TikTok & Instagram: @NoWinScenarioPodcast Subscribe for more science fiction interviews, author conversations, Star Trek discussions, filmmaking insights, and deep dives into the future of storytelling. #MattWitten #51Percent #DystopianFiction #Dystopian #CorporatePower #CrimeFiction #PoliceProcedural #AuthorInterview #WritingAdvice #WritingProcess #ScienceFiction #SciFi #NoWinScenario #DonsAwayMission #DonSchechter #TrevorChamberlain

    313 - Don's Away Mission With Matt Witten

  2. 3d ago

    312 - Don's Away Mission with Author Shanti Hershenson

    Shanti Hershenson joins No Win Scenario Presents: Don's Away Mission for a conversation about science fiction, young adult fiction, dystopian novels, the writing process, and what it takes to build a writing career while connecting directly with readers. And she's just 18! In this episode, Don Schechter talks with Shanti about starting her writing journey at age 13, why she loves stories with “crazy high stakes,” how science fiction can explore social issues and future consequences, and how authors today balance creativity with marketing, TikTok, in-person events, revisions, editors, and reader engagement. Shanti also shares advice for young writers, how she develops ideas and characters, why finishing and revising a story can be so challenging, and how writing helps her make sense of the world. No Win Scenario is a science fiction podcast hosted by Don Schechter and Trevor Chamberlain: two friends who hate each other, talking sci-fi. Episode: 312 Runtime: 30:17 Release: August 16, 2026 Guest: Shanti Hershenson In this episode: Shanti Hershenson’s writing journey from age 13Young adult fiction, science fiction, and dystopian storiesWhy high-stakes stories connect with readersDeveloping story concepts and charactersRevising, editing, and finishing a bookTikTok, social media marketing, and book promotionConnecting with readers online and in personAdvice for young writers and aspiring authorsChapters: 00:00 Introduction to Shanti Hershenson and her writing journey 01:53 Why high-stakes stories resonate with readers 04:06 Starting to write at age 13 and her early goals 07:03 Balancing writing with social media marketing 09:51 The appeal of sci-fi for exploring societal issues 12:04 How she develops story concepts and characters 13:52 Challenges in finishing and revising her books 16:08 The role of her editor and revision process 17:59 Her upcoming college studies and future plans 19:54 How her books reach and connect with readers 21:51 The importance of authenticity and human connection 23:58 Advice for young writers and balancing multiple roles 26:12 Closing thoughts and where to find her work Don says: Order the Ascendants novel: https://ascendantsbook.com/ Trevor says: Watch Front Row Reactions https://www.youtube.com/@frontrowreactions Website: https://www.nowinscenariopodcast.com Email: NoWinScenarioPodcast@gmail.com TikTok & Instagram: @NoWinScenarioPodcast X: @nowinscenario Subscribe for more science fiction interviews, author conversations, Star Trek discussions, filmmaking insights, and deep dives into the future of storytelling. #ScienceFiction #SciFi #ShantiHershenson #AuthorInterview #YoungAuthor #YoungAdultFiction #YAFiction #DystopianFiction #WritingAdvice #WritingProcess #BookTok #TikTokBooks #CreativeWriting #NoWinScenario #DonsAwayMission

    312 - Don's Away Mission with Author Shanti Hershenson

  3. 4d ago

    311 - Don's Away Mission with Author Elliot Blake

    In this episode of No Win Scenario Presents: Don’s Away Mission, Don Schechter and surprise co-host Trevor Chamberlain sits down with author and media creator Elliot Blake to talk about making the leap from helping tell other people’s stories to creating a science-fiction world of his own. Elliot discusses the creation of his new novella, Into the Great, and how living through a period of extraordinary technological and social change influenced the story. The conversation explores why science fiction remains such a powerful way to process the world around us, the challenge of imagining the future when technology is evolving so quickly, and how creators can turn uncertainty into compelling storytelling.Don and Elliot also dig into the creative decisions behind Into the Great, including why Elliot chose the novella format, the book’s visual influences, and the writers and films that helped shape his approach—including William Gibson and Blade Runner.They also look beyond the book to possible adaptations, including audiobooks, animation, and film, while discussing the current state of the entertainment industry and the realities of staying creatively active when the business itself is undergoing enormous change.Highlights include: Elliot Blake’s career in media and storytellingMaking the transition from helping create other people’s stories to writing his ownThe inspiration behind Into the GreatHow rapid technological and societal change shapes modern science fictionUsing science fiction to process uncertainty about the present and futureWhy Elliot chose to tell the story as a novellaThe visual thinking behind the book’s cover and designInfluences including William Gibson and Blade RunnerHow creators decide what the future should look and feel likePlans for audiobook, film, animation, and other possible adaptationsThe changing state of the entertainment industryBalancing professional work with personal creative projectsWhy today’s tools can mean “fewer excuses, more stories to tell”Sound Bites:“Fewer excuses, more stories to tell.”“Choosing the life you want in a destabilized world.”“Science fiction as a way to process current times.”Chapters:00:00 Introduction to the episode and guest 01:19 Elliot Blake's background in media and storytelling 02:20 The inspiration behind Into the Great 04:39 The influence of current global changes on the story 06:30 Storytelling as a reflection of societal fears 09:35 The impact of the current era on creative work 13:38 Media adaptation plans for Into the Great 16:32 Why a novella? Length and publishing choices 20:18 Cover art and design influences 22:26 Literary influences and sci-fi inspirations 26:23 Living in a time of rapid change and storytelling 30:03 The state of the entertainment industry and future projects 36:06 Balancing creative work with industry realities Guest Links: Elliot Blake: https://elliotblake.com/ Instagram: https://instagram.com/elliotblake Podcast: No Win Scenario Presents: Don’s Away Mission Episode Number: S03E11 Release Date: August 15, 2026 Duration: 40:12 Host: Don Schechter Website: https://www.nowinscenariopodcast.com Email: NoWinScenarioPodcast@gmail.com Follow No Win Scenario on X (Formerly Twitter): @nowinscenario Follow No Win Scenario on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61551025621867 TikTok: @NoWinScenarioPodcast Don says: Order the Ascendants novel: https://www.ascendantsbook.com Trevor says: Watch Front Row Reactions: https://www.youtube.com/@FrontRowReactionsSubscribe on your favorite platformMental Health Crisis ResourcesIn the US: Call or text 988 Online: https://988lifeline.org©2026 Charles River Media https://www.CharlesRiverMedia.com

    311 - Don's Away Mission with Author Elliot Blake

  4. 5d ago

    310 - Don's Away Mission with Author Jon Land

    In this episode of No Win Scenario Presents: Don’s Away Mission, Don Schechter sits down with bestselling author Jon Land for a wide-ranging conversation about storytelling, suspense, writing across genres, and what it takes to keep readers turning the page.Jon shares lessons from his prolific career writing thrillers and beyond, from recognizing which ideas are worth pursuing to building action scenes, creating cliffhangers, and finding the emotional core of a story. He also discusses why writers need to love what they’re writing, how his childhood and love of film shaped his storytelling style, and why the fundamentals of great storytelling remain the same whether you’re writing thrillers, science fiction, or something entirely different.The conversation also dives into Jon’s novel Icefall, his approach to writing without an outline, and the challenges authors face trying to reach new readers in today’s changing publishing landscape.Highlights include: What makes an idea strong enough to become a novelWhy writers need to love their own stories firstWhat modern writers can learn from oral storytellingHow suspense, chapter hooks, and cliffhangers keep readers engagedJon’s approach to writing without detailed outlinesWhy starting in the middle of the action can pull readers into a storyBalancing character development with fast-paced actionHow Jon builds and escalates action sequencesThe inspiration and premise behind IcefallHow film and television influenced Jon’s storytelling styleWriting from the inside out and “roleplaying” characters as an authorUsing information, suspense, and curiosity to engage readersThe challenge of finding and building an audience in today’s publishing worldHow publishing and book distribution have evolvedJon’s advice for authors building a long-term writing careerSound Bites:“Love what I write so the reader will love it too.”“My action scenes are my lifeblood.”“Writing is a marathon, not a sprint.”Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Jon Land and his prolific career 00:57 What makes an idea worthy of a book? 02:01 The importance of loving your story as a writer 03:08 Storytelling: From campfires to books 04:09 The craft of storytelling across mediums 06:26 Handling audience reactions and writer's doubt 11:12 Writing without outlines and creating suspense 12:16 Homer's advice: Start in the middle of the scene 14:27 The importance of chapter hooks and cliffhangers 17:08 About Icefall and its inspiration 18:33 The plot of Icefall: Alien creatures and climate change 20:12 Building action scenes and escalating tension 21:43 The power of storytelling in TV and movies 23:19 Roleplaying as a writer: Inside-out storytelling 26:32 Manipulation in storytelling: Creating suspense and curiosity 29:06 Finding and building your audience in a changing market 35:43 Jon Land's future projects and writing advice 37:11 Closing remarks and gratitude Podcast: No Win Scenario Presents: Don’s Away Mission Episode Number: S03E10 Release Date: August 14, 2026 Duration: 38:09 Host: Don Schechter Website: https://www.nowinscenariopodcast.com Email: NoWinScenarioPodcast@gmail.com Follow No Win Scenario on X (Formerly Twitter): @nowinscenario Follow No Win Scenario on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61551025621867 TikTok: @NoWinScenarioPodcastDon says: Order the Ascendants novel: https://www.ascendantsbook.comTrevor says: Watch Front Row Reactions: https://www.youtube.com/@FrontRowReactionsSubscribe on your favorite platformMental Health Crisis ResourcesIn the US: Call or text 988 Online: https://988lifeline.org©2026 Charles River Media https://www.CharlesRiverMedia.com

    310 - Don's Away Mission with Author Jon Land

  5. Jun 28

    309 - Disclosure Day and the Politics of First Contact (A NWS Quick Hit)

    In this no frills, no commercials, and no production design whatsoever episode of No Win Scenario, Don and Trevor dig into Disclosure Day, Steven Spielberg’s new science fiction story about alien contact, political fear, and the fragile state of human empathy. On the surface, Disclosure Day is about what happens when humanity learns we are not alone. But the bigger question may be what happens when people are asked to care about someone, or something, they do not understand. Spielberg uses the familiar language of first contact to explore a very current anxiety: have we become too divided to respond to the unknown with curiosity instead of suspicion? We talk about the film’s political undertones, its treatment of empathy, and why science fiction remains one of the best genres for examining the present without simply lecturing the audience. Disclosure Day may be about aliens, but like the best Spielberg stories, it is really about people.  No Win Scenario is a sci-fi podcast where two friends who hate each other talk movies, television, storytelling, worldbuilding, and the future we probably deserve.

    309 - Disclosure Day and the Politics of First Contact (A NWS Quick Hit)

  6. Jun 13

    308 - SPECIAL EPISODE: Star Trek Las Vegas Convention and Lost Without Trevor

    Don went to Creation Entertainment’s STLV: Trek to Vegas 2025 Convention in Las Vegas. Trevor did not. In this special episode of No Win Scenario, Trevor finally gets to experience the convention secondhand as he reacts to Don's adventures at the largest Star Trek convention in the world. From celebrity encounters and fan interviews to convention floor discoveries and questionable decisions, Don shares stories from Las Vegas while Trevor attempts to determine whether any of it was worth leaving him behind. The episode features highlights and reactions from Don's convention coverage, including interviews with fans, creators, and fellow Trek enthusiasts, along with plenty of commentary, good-natured jealousy, and the kind of friendship that only survives through public ridicule.If you've ever attended a convention, dreamed of attending one, or wondered what happens when one co-host disappears into a Star Trek convention without the other, this episode is for you .No Win Scenario is your portal into the universe of science fiction entertainment. Join Don and Trevor as they debate varied viewpoints and dissect beloved narratives. Engaging with industry insiders, they delve into the everyday realities of production and highlight the growing importance of mental health awareness in the film and television industry. Podcast: No Win Scenario Episode Number: S03E08 Release Date: June 2026 Duration: 24:20 Hosts: Don Schechter and Trevor ChamberlainWebsite: https://www.nowinscenariopodcast.com Email: NoWinScenarioPodcast@gmail.com Follow No Win Scenario on X (Formerly Twitter): @nowinscenario Follow No Win Scenario on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61551025621867 TikTok: @NoWinScenarioPodcast Order the Ascendants novel:  https://www.ascendantsbook.com Subscribe on your favorite platform Mental Health Crisis Resources In the US: 1-800-950-NAMI (6264)Or text HELPLINE to 62640 Or email helpline@nami.orgInternational: visit suicidestop.com ©2026 Charles River Media  https://www.CharlesRiverMedia.com

    308 - SPECIAL EPISODE: Star Trek Las Vegas Convention and Lost Without Trevor

  7. Jun 1

    307 - The Arborist Writer and Director Andrew Mudge and Don's Shameless Self-Promotion

    Writer/director Andrew Mudge joins No Win Scenario to discuss his acclaimed thriller The Arborist, a tense and atmospheric mystery that explores obsession, secrets, and the darkness hidden beneath seemingly ordinary lives. Don Schechter and Trevor Chamberlain  dive into the film's origins, its striking visual style, the challenges of independent filmmaking, and how Mudge crafted a story that keeps audiences guessing until the very end. In a completely shameless act of self-promotion, the conversation also turns to Don's science fiction novel Ascendants. From publishing and marketing to building a multi-platform universe, Don shares the journey of bringing his debut novel into the world, while Trevor does his best to keep the discussion from becoming a full-length infomercial. Whether you're a fan of indie thrillers, filmmaking, science fiction, or just enjoy watching Trevor suffer through Don's latest obsession, this episode has something for you.No Win Scenario is your portal into the universe of science fiction entertainment. Join Don and Trevor as they debate varied viewpoints and dissect beloved narratives. Engaging with industry insiders, they delve into the everyday realities of production and highlight the growing importance of mental health awareness in the film and television industry. Podcast: No Win Scenario Episode Number: 307 Release Date: June 1, 2026 Duration: 01:09:51 Hosts: Don Schechter and Trevor Chamberlain Guest: Andrew Mudge Website: https://www.nowinscenariopodcast.com Email: NoWinScenarioPodcast@gmail.com Follow No Win Scenario on X (Formerly Twitter): @nowinscenario Follow No Win Scenario on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61551025621867 TikTok: @NoWinScenarioPodcastSubscribe on your favorite platform

    307 - The Arborist Writer and Director Andrew Mudge and Don's Shameless Self-Promotion

  8. 08/30/2025

    306 - The Wrath of Clips - (Clip Show Part 2)

    The No Win Scenario Clip Show "Shades of Gray" was so successful so we're back with more. the Wratch of clips includes interviews with Star Trek author Derek Tyler Attico, Star Trek Picard Nemesis, Anchorman 2, Quantum Leap (and so on) Computer/Video Playback & Projection Supervisor Todd A. Marks, The Expanse and The Boys Cinematographer Jeremy Benning, Bleecker Street CEO Kent Sanderson, and Brian Tamm the Executive Director at Independent Film Festival Boston. Listen to this episode then go back to Seasons 1 and 2 for the full interviews. No Win Scenario is your portal into the universe of science fiction entertainment. Join Don and Trevor as they debate varied viewpoints and dissect beloved narratives. Engaging with industry insiders, they delve into the everyday realities of production and highlight the growing importance of mental health awareness in the film and television industry. Podcast: No Win Scenario Episode Number: 306 Release Date: January 12, 2025 Duration: 00:39:44 Hosts: Don Schechter and Trevor Chaberlain Guests: Derek Tyler Attico, Todd A. Marks, Jeremy Benning, Kent Sanderson, Brian Tamm Website: https://www.nowinscenariopodcast.com Email: NoWinScenarioPodcast@gmail.com Follow No Win Scenario on X (Formerly Twitter): @nowinscenario Follow No Win Scenario on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61551025621867 TikTok: @NoWinScenarioPodcast Subscribe on your favorite platform Mental Health Crisis Resources In the US: 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) Or text HELPLINE to 62640 Or email helpline@nami.org International: visit suicidestop.com

    306 - The Wrath of Clips - (Clip Show Part 2)
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

Two Friends Who Hate Each Other -  Talking Science Fiction Star Trek, Dune, Babylon 5, The Expanse, Star Wars, Neon Genesis Evangelion and more — we are your gateway to science fiction entertainment. As we spar over diverse perspectives and dissect popular narratives, you'll be passionately divided, loving and loathing us in equal measure. Tune in as yours hosts, Don and Trevor, engage with industry experts to explore the day-to-day realities of production and the increasing prominence of mental health concerns in the film and television industry. Our initial guests include: Dave Blass (Production Designer, Star Trek Picard) Liz Kloczkowski (Art Director, Star Trek Picard) Todd A. Marks (Computer/Video Playback Supervisor, Star Trek Picard) Jeremy Benning (Cinematographer, The Expanse) Kent Sanderson (President, Acquisitions and Ancillary Distribution at Bleecker Street) David Mack (NY Times Best Selling Author, Star Trek: Picard: Firewall) Jenny R Johnson (Artist) Derek Tyler Attico (Award winning Author, The Autobiography of Benjamin Sisko) Brian Tamm (Executive Director, Boston Independent Film Festival) Todd E. Slayton, Cathy Debono, Robin Morselli, Mark Lentry,  (Star Trek Deep Space Nine) Created by Trevor Chamberlain and Don Schechter ©2024 Charles River Media Inc

Information

  • Creator
    Trevor Chamberlain and Don Schechter
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    25
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2023
  • Show Website
    No Win Scenario