The ghosts of Pearl Harbor hang over this episode, which doesn’t really have a villain, except for that mobster who’s not really necessary for the plot, and that Admiral who’s just a stickler for the regulations, and… hey, Rick, can you do some research into old crimes? Anyway, Jason gets excited about his new TV show pitch, “Boat Cops,” and we end…

Just like the proverbial dog who got run over by the pineapple truck, we’ve caught hold of an early “Magnum” episode that contains all the core tropes. Sexy stewardesses? Yup! The Lads chasing Magnum? Check! Rick’s character not entirely locked down? Uh-huh! Also, it’s some light entertainment about the Troubles in Northern Ireland with a surprise …

Just before he was the dad in “A Christmas Story,” Darren McGavin took a trip to Hawaii to play pulp novelist Buck Gibson, a daredevil friend of Robin Masters. Do his misadventures teach us important lessons about how we appreciate our lives? What’s in a Bazooka? And we have several head-canon explanations for an anecdote about Magnum’s dad. Jason …

They’re always after his Lucky Charms! Higgins’s Northern Irish half-brother arrives in Oahu and it’s all light comedy despite what’s going on back home. Meanwhile, Magnum investigates an unfaithful wife and, wow, does the tone of this episode shift dramatically from moment to moment. Jason Snell, Philip Michaels and David J. Loehr Support this sho…

A guy in a blue sedan. A man with gold teeth. A woman (Marcia Wallace!) has come to Hawaii searching for her missing fiancé. Sounds like the plot to a good ol’ detective show, but forget all that—instead, it’s time to train for the Ironman Triathlon! Jason Snell, Philip Michaels and David J. Loehr Support this show and other shows like it on The In…

We know what you’re thinking: Carol Burnett returns for a victory lap as the ramshackle, shambolic final season of “Magnum, p.i.” draws to a close. Also, the opening credits ruin a “Max Headroom” sized surprise! Jason Snell, Philip Michaels and David J. Loehr Support this show and other shows like it on The Incomparable network by becoming a member…

Antony Johnston, author and dapper fellow, joins Scott to discuss “The House of Quark” (DS9 S3E3). Topics include Klingon accounting practices, forced marriages played for laughs, and the versatility of the High Council chambers. Scott McNulty with Antony Johnston Show Notes & Links Watch “The House of Quark” for yourself: Amazon Instant Video Para…

Steven Schapansky, podcaster producer and podcaster, joins Scott to discuss “Data’s Day” (TNG S4E11). Topics include the power move of having your wedding near the Neutral Zone, Service Merchandise and Consumers Distributing, and who you’d rather get bad news from: Data or Geordi. Scott McNulty with Steven Schapansky Show Notes & Links Watch “Data’…

Computer games! Mind games! Jenny Agutter appears (delighting Jason) in an episode that promises lots of Cesar Romero and doesn’t deliver (angering Phil). Jason explains 40- and 80-character mode in classic computers. There are multiple fake break-ins. Cesar Romero shoots off fireworks. Maybe it’s all a prank by those hang-glider people? Jason Snel…

Lance LeGault appears in this episode, but not as Buck Greene. We’re devastated. Instead, he’s a spy on the lookout for another spy who’s on the run—and missing in action? Magnum’s client is looking for that second spy, and she’s apparently got ESP? Oh, it’s going to be one of those episodes, isn’t it? Jason Snell, Philip Michaels and David J. Loeh…

Liz Barr, co-host of Antimatter Pod, joins Scott to discuss “Dragon’s Teeth” (VOY S6E7). Topics include the strength of Starfleet vessels, which character we’d most like to kiss (consensually), and the sadness that we don’t see the Vaadwaur in any other episodes. Liz blogged about Dragon’s Teeth too, in case you can’t get enough! Scott McNulty with…

This early episode contains a disturbing scene of suggested suicide that should probably not have been anywhere on prime-time TV, let alone during a light action-adventure series! And yet “Skin Deep” has a lot going for it, including Ian McShane being very sweaty and shifty. Jason Snell, Philip Michaels and David J. Loehr Support this show and othe…

Many Weavers (but not Dennis Wheeler or Dennis Miller), some cowboy music, surprising “Star Trek” guest stars, and a plot that goes to some surprising places make this episode a winner. Jason Snell, Philip Michaels and David J. Loehr Support this show and other shows like it on The Incomparable network by becoming a member. Members get early access…

Guy English, podcaster and programmer, joins Scott to discuss “Eye of the Beholder” (TNG S7E18). This episode of TNG starts off with a scene depicting suicide. Support is available if you are struggling. Topics include the portrayal of mental health issues, “it was all a dream,” and Riker’s pajamas. Scott McNulty with Guy English Show Notes & Links…

In the sequel episode nobody demanded, Magnum must protect the prince of Jororo from a kidnapping, despite the interference of Dr. FBI. In another surprise return, our segments about 1980s baseball and time zones also resurface. Hey hey hey, easy, easy, easy. The end! Jason Snell, Philip Michaels and David J. Loehr Show Notes & Links Magnum UK comi…

An old Rabbi friend of Higgins arrives in Hawaii, but his historic Torah has been stolen! Vic McCool and Dick Ling may be involved, as well as the owner of Shelby’s Fine Meats. Magnum’s Tigers hat works as a yarmulke! Honoring the sabbath can be very, very good for your health! And remember, when a light switch turns on, the darkness turns off… or …

We’re back. And what’s this? A car bombing, a travesty of justice, the culmination of our least-favorite “Magnum” storyline… it must be a season eight episode! We’re devastated. At least it’s got Lance LeGault in it, as well as the summary execution of dozens of happy little pears. The pears know what they did. Jason Snell, Philip Michaels and Davi…

Joe Rosensteel, podcaster and writer, joins Scott to discuss “Terra Nova” (ENT S1E6). Topics include the Dutch, the wasted potential of Enterprise, and the judicious use of diggers. Scott McNulty with Joe Rosensteel Show Notes & Links Watch “Terra Nova” for yourself: Amazon Instant Video Paramount+ Blu-Ray Support this show and other shows like it …

John Moltz, freelance writer, podcaster (The Rebound and Biff!), joins Scott to discuss “These are the Voyages” (ENT S4E22). Topics include how bad this episode is on many levels, shocking cameos, great characters in not so great shows, and inexplicable deaths. Scott McNulty with John Moltz Show Notes & Links Watch “These are the Voyages” for yours…

At last, the story begins here. Years into his retirement, Scoutmaster Greene is called back to spacefaring adventures at the behest of the last person he’d have expected… The Last Dangerous Visions? David J. Loehr with Monty Ashley, Erika Ensign, Steven Schapansky, Steve Lutz, Quinn Rose and Travis Bedard Support this show and other shows like it …

Monty Ashley, Incomparable host and all around nice guy, joins Scott to discuss “Live Fast and Prosper” (VOY S6E21). Topics include Scott explaining The Traitors, expressions of love for Taskmaster and Drag Race Espana, and eventually Star Trek. Scott McNulty with Monty Ashley Show Notes & Links Watch “Live Fast and Prosper” for yourself: Amazon In…

James Thomson, the developer behind PCalc and Dice by PCalc (and other things), joins Scott to discuss "Genesis" (TNG S7E19). Topics include the many similarities between James and Neil Diamond, Blockbuster Video, and dubious science in this episode. Scott McNulty with James Thomson Show Notes & Links Watch "Geneis" for yourself: Amazon Instant Vid…

Thanks to Listener David, we return for this special episode where we react to the opening of an age-old pack of Magnum, p.i. Trading Cards. Images should appear in your podcast player as we go, or you can see them in the show notes on the website. Jason Snell, Philip Michaels and David J. Loehr Show Notes & Links Trading Cards Database - Magnum ca…

David J Loehr, writer and podcaster, joins Scott to discuss “Things Past” (DS9 S5E8). Topics include the lack of Neelix, Odo’s tortured soul, and the creepy uncanny vibe that allows for effective, and cheap, Star Trek episodes. Next on Random Trek: “Genesis” (TNG S7E19) with James Thomson. Scott McNulty with David J. Loehr Show Notes & Links Watch …

John Siracusa, developer, writer, and podcaster, joins Scott to discuss “Daedalus” (ENT S4E10). Topics include being a professional podcaster, the emotions of Vulcans, and Captain Archer’s judgment (or lack thereof). Next on Random Trek: “Things Past” (DS9 S5E8) with David J Loehr. Scott McNulty with John Siracusa Show Notes & Links Watch Daedalus …

Grant Jun Otsuki, a cultural anthropologist, joins Scott to discuss "The Siege of AR-558" (DS9 S7E8). We attempt to have a lighthearted conversation about a very heavy episode of Deep Space Nine. Topics include which Captain you'd want to work for, how great Avery Brooks' performance is in this episode, and why the heck was Quark allowed to hang ar…

In a dark city, on the wrong side of the tracks, a boxer with fists of fury and a heart of gold helps a woman in need. Or maybe it was his trainer with a swing like the Babe that helps. Don’t ask me, I’m not the narrator. It’s that kind of a show. The Finley Quality Network is back on the air… With Kevin R. Free, Ayun Halliday, Rebecca Comtois, Mac…

It’s like “Witness,” but on a made-up Hawaiian island! We end this season of “Magnum, podcast” on the forbidden island of Kapu. There’s no phone, no light, no motor car—not a single luxury. Jason Snell, Philip Michaels and David J. Loehr Support this show and other shows like it on The Incomparable network by becoming a member. Members get early ac…

This episode provides a missing archaeologist, a bitter academic dispute, and a goat, inspiring Phil to create a new segment: Is This Anything? Jason Snell, Philip Michaels and David J. Loehr Support this show and other shows like it on The Incomparable network by becoming a member. Members get early access to podcasts, bonus episodes, and more.…

In an episode that teaches us that friendships are like sponges, Magnum and TC repeatedly commit crimes and visit jail. Meanwhile, Rick wins the lottery and meets a travel agent doing a survey of the hotels of the southwest. And a guy who drives a melon truck has the best day in the history of melon trucks. Jason Snell, Philip Michaels and David J.…

Can a ghost explode from eating too many ghost pastries? This is a “Freaky Friday” episode that’s… not so freaky. Magnum and Higgins trade places, sort of? Come on shake your body baby do that conga! Jason Snell, Philip Michaels and David J. Loehr Support this show and other shows like it on The Incomparable network by becoming a member. Members ge…

People, if you’re betting against the spread on youth basketball games, it’s a sign that you have a serious gambling problem. Especially if they’re coached by turkeys like Magnum and T.C. Brutal! What are you doing! Coach Wooden would never approve! Jason Snell, Philip Michaels and David J. Loehr Support this show and other shows like it on The Inc…

Under the sea, Under the sea Magnum will see a ghost so spookily Higgins and T.C. Think Magnum’s strange discovery Is purely buncombe (Mom is a drunk-um) Under the sea! Jason Snell, Philip Michaels and David J. Loehr Support this show and other shows like it on The Incomparable network by becoming a member. Members get early access to podcasts, bon…

Giving thanks for our members and listeners, we answer some listener comments, correct some mistakes, apologize to some sponsors, and make references to other references. Listener Blair is also mentioned. This episode was originally released last month as part of the First Class podcast feed for members. Sign up to support the show, you’ll get acce…

Jason Snell, Random Trek’s most frequent guest, joins Scott to discuss “Day of the Dove” (TOS S3E11). Topics include our favorite Klingons, whatever the deal is with these energy aliens, and the “hidden” message of this episode. Watch “Day of the Dove” for yourself: Amazon Instant Video Paramount+ Blu-Rays Scott McNulty with Jason Snell Support thi…

Magnum dreams he’s in the 1930s and tries to prevent an innocent man from being executed! But Rick, T.C. and Higgins are all there too… sort of. Shocking deaths! Surprising new investigative powers! The fate of Listener Allison’s argument with her husband stands in the balance!The Incomparable

Claire L. Evans, writer and musician, joins Scott to discuss “Wrongs Darker Than Death or Night” (DS9 S6E17). Topics include how great Dax is, war crimes, and the ease of time travel when you’re a Bajoran. Just a warning -given the content of this episode, we talk about some mature topics. On a lighter note, read Claire’s history of the corporate p…

It’s October, which means it’s spooky season, which means it’s time for an episode where Rick and Magnum may have seen a g-g-g-g-g-host! Also, Kenneth Mars is a bizarre caretaker with a German accent, there’s an old weirdo with a creepy painting, and Rick is really unlucky in love. Plus, listeners are concerned about Magnum’s head injuries and need…

Listener Blair is back with a new selection to torment Phil, David, and Jason! But will they be tormented, or have they just stumbled on the Platonic ideal of a “Magnum, p.i.” episode? Also, Phil surprises Jason with a new segment!The Incomparable

Erika Ensign, podcaster and trivia enthusiast, joins Scott to discuss “The Voyager Conspiracy” (S6E9). Topics include conspiracy theories, the many possible loves of Capt. Janeway, and the complete lack of Reginald Barclay in this episode. Watch “The Voyager Conspiracy” for yourself: Amazon Instant Video Paramount Plus DVDs Scott McNulty with Erika…

Sit right back and you’ll hear a tale, a tale of a purloined idol and many, many, many suspects who want to steal it! And it’s all on a cruise ship! In Kauai! Magnum is no Poirot, for better or for worse.The Incomparable

Ride ‘em, Hawaiian cowboys! Magnum goes to the Big Island to foil a cattle-rustling ring, but things quickly get out of hand. Visit tinyurl.com/mauimagnum to join us and donate for Maui relief.The Incomparable

Jean MacDonald, Micro.blog community manager and podcaster, joins Scott to discuss “Our Man Bashir” (DS9 S4E10). Topics include Jean’s conversion to a DS9 fan, whether or not Bashir is the Tom Paris of DS9, and just how much fun all the actors seem to be having in this episode. Watch Our Man Bashir for yourself: Amazon Instant Video Paramount Plus …

You might love this episode, or it might leave you causing a racket when you say, “What the deuce?” Is it a net win or a net loss? Anyway, when you’re trying to run someone over, drive Volvo. Visit tinyurl.com/mauimagnum to join us and donate for Maui relief.The Incomparable

Antony Johnston, writer, podcaster, and snappy dresser, joins Scott to discuss “A Matter of Perspective)” (TNG S3/E14). Topics include Law and Order, who volunteers to be a nude model on the Enterprise, and how clever (or not) the mystery in this episode is. Get yourself a copy of Antony’s The Dog Sitter Detective, you won’t regret it! Watch “A Mat…

We’ll be back for season 4 shortly! In this episode we reveal the first episode we’ll cover this season and also encourage you to donate to Maui relief. Visit tinyurl.com/mauimagnum to join us and donate.The Incomparable

Dan Moren, writer and podcaster, joins Scott to discuss "The Savage Curtain" (TOS S3E22). Topics include Dan's Gene Roddenberry impersonation, Kirk's quick acceptance of space Lincoln, and the perplexing moral of this episode (is there one?!). Want more details about TOS Season 3? Check out Marc Cushman's "These Are the Voyages - TOS: Season Three"…