My Next Generation

Rik Carranza

Welcome to My Next Generation, the Star Trek podcast where lifelong fan Rik introduces his son, Jonah, to the Star Trek universe one episode at a time. Each week, we watch and review an episode together, capturing the hilarious, honest, and surprisingly insightful reactions of a preschooler discovering Starfleet, the Federation, Klingons, Borg, and more for the very first time. A celebration of Star Trek, fatherhood, family, and passing the love of sci-fi to the next generation.

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15 episodes
weekly
Avg 33 min
English

Episodes 15

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S2 · E5
Monday · 33 min
Bearded Chakotay, Wesley’s Sweater & The Space Bugs (Prodigy Mid-Season Finale) Ep15 The Devourer of All Things pt 1&2
What happens when you introduce a 5-year-old to time paradoxes, terrifying space bugs, and Wesley Crusher? Welcome to My Next Generation, the heartwarming and chaotic Star Trek podcast where a lifelong fan introduces his young son, Jonah, to the final frontier! In this episode, Rik and Jonah sit down for the epic two-part mid-season finale of Star Trek: Prodigy Season 2 ("The Devourer of All Things"). Listen in as a 5-year-old navigates the scary reality of the Loom, tries to offer a holographic Janeway some grapes, and uses Maui's Hook to defend the living room. Plus, Rik shares a special "Geek Parenting" trick involving an Infinity Stone to help kids be brave during scary TV moments. In this episode, we cover: A major tech upgrade (and Jonah’s hilarious reaction to hearing his own voice). First impressions of the terrifying "Loom" and how to help kids watch scary scenes. The return of Wesley Crusher (and his excellent sweaters). Chakotay's new beard and the epic return of Admiral Janeway. Jonah's crossover toy battles featuring the Starship Enterprise, Thanos, and Moana. Whether you’re a lifelong Trekkie, a parent trying to share your nerdy passions with your kids, or just looking for a good laugh, grab a seat on the couch with us! Don't forget to hit Subscribe, leave a 5-star review, and follow Rik on social media (@RikCarranza) for more father-son nerdy adventures! (And be sure to check out Rik's other podcast, The Geekatorium, for deep dives into Marvel, DC, Star Wars, and more!)
S2 · E4
August 17 · 42 min
Kazon Racing, Chosen Families, and Smelly Armpits! Ep14 The Fast and the Curious & Is There in Beauty No Truth?
What happens when you introduce a 5-year-old to the Kazon, Borg-esque computers, and high-speed space races? Welcome to My Next Generation, the Star Trek podcast where a lifelong fan introduces his young son, Jonah, to the final frontier! In this episode, Rick and Jonah sit down to watch Star Trek: Prodigy Season 2, Episodes 7 and 8: "The Fast and the Curious" and "Is There in Beauty No Truth." Listen in as a 5-year-old processes complex Trek themes like the moral gray areas, the beauty of "chosen families," and Zero’s ultimate sacrifice. Plus, expect plenty of hilarious father-son detours, including why Jonah shushed his dad during a tense scene, a surprise inspection of armpit smells, and a post-episode playtime with the original USS Enterprise. In this episode, we cover: First impressions of the Kazon and deadly transwarp conduits. A 5-year-old's take on morality: Are all bad guys really bad? Zero getting a new body and the importance of chosen family. Why Jonah thinks Dad needs to be quiet when the show is on. Engage with us! Which episode of Star Trek should Jonah watch after we finish Prodigy? Let us know! Don't forget to hit Subscribe, leave a 5-star review, and follow Rik on social media for more father-son nerdy adventures! (And check out Rik's other podcast, The Geekatorium!)
S2 · E3
August 10 · 30 min
Whales in Space! Ep 13 Observer's Paradox & Imposter Syndrome
Welcome back to My Next Generation, the podcast where a geeky dad (Rik) introduces his 5-year-old son (Jonah) to the final frontier! In this episode, the father-son duo tackles Star Trek: Prodigy Season 2, watching Episode 5 ("Observer's Paradox") and Episode 6 ("Imposter Syndrome"). In this episode, we discuss: Star Trek: Prodigy Season 2, Episodes 5 & 6 Explaining Starfleet lore (like Cetacean Ops) to kids Using Star Trek to teach children problem-solving and emotional resilience Navigating school, bullying, and embracing geek culture in 2026 Why Prodigy is the perfect gateway show for young sci-fi fans Don't forget to subscribe to My Next Generation on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode! If you loved Jonah's review, please leave us a 5-star rating and share this episode with a fellow Trekkie.
S2 · E2
August 3 · 27 min
Things get Timey Wimey Ep 12 Who Saves the Saviors & Temporal Mechanics 101
How does a 5-year-old handle the emotional rollercoaster of time travel, epic duels, and trapped heroes? Welcome back to My Next Generation, the podcast where a lifelong Trekkie introduces his 5-year-old son, Jonah, to the Star Trek universe! This week, we are breaking down Star Trek: Prodigy Season 2, Episodes 3 ("Who Saves the Saviors") and 4 ("Temporal Mechanics 101"). Join us as we discuss Dal, Jankom Pog, and Zero’s daring time-travel mission to rescue Captain Chakotay, and Gwyn’s intense, high-stakes duel with Asencia. You’ll hear Jonah’s adorable (and surprisingly emotional!) reactions to the episodes, his space snack of choice (Party Rings!), and why the core Star Trek message of "being the best version of yourself" is so vital for the next generation. In this episode, we cover: A 5-year-old's attempt to understand Temporal Mechanics 101. The paradox of Dal and the Diviner. Gwyn's heartbreaking battle and Jonah's emotional "thumbs down" rating. The return of The Doctor (Robert Picardo) and holographic Janeway. Why Star Trek: Prodigy is the ultimate family sci-fi show. Don't forget to subscribe to My Next Generation on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode! If you loved Jonah's review, please leave us a 5-star rating and share this episode with a fellow Trekkie.
S2 · E1
July 27 · 37 min
The Doctor Returns! And so do we Ep 11 Into the Breach
How does a 5-year-old react to the highly anticipated Star Trek: Prodigy Season 2 premiere? Join father and son duo Rik and Jonah as they boldly go into "Into the Breach" (Parts 1 & 2)! In this episode of My Next Generation, we’re breaking down the return of the real Admiral Janeway, our first look at the stunning Voyager-A, and the glorious return of Robert Picardo as The Doctor. We also discuss Cetacean Ops, Gwynn’s emotional journey to Solum, and whether the Diviner has actually become a good guy. Plus, Rik shares a wild, unbelievable story about the time Robert Picardo (and a Doctor Who legend!) secretly showed up to watch his comedy show at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. 🎙️ In this episode, we discuss: Jonah's hilarious and innocent reactions to the Voyager-A and Murf’s combat training! Why seeing the new Voyager made Rick emotional (and why it's okay to cry over Star Trek). A deep dive into Prodigy Season 2, Episodes 1 & 2: "Into the Breach." Rik’s unforgettable real-life encounter with the EMH himself, Robert Picardo. WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! Have you ever met a Star Trek actor in real life? Let us know who you met and how it went in the comments on Spotify, YouTube, or hit us up on social media! Support the Podcast: If you love seeing Star Trek through the eyes of the next generation, please leave us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify! It’s the best way to help other Trek fans find the show.
S1 · E10
June 29 · 35 min
Jonah's First Star Trek Heartbreak Ep 10 Supernova Pt 1&2
We’ve reached the incredible Season 1 finale, and there wasn’t a dry eye in the room. This week on My Next Generation, 5-year-old Jonah experiences his very first Star Trek heartbreak as we tackle the epic two-parter: "Supernova, Part 1 and 2." When the Starfleet armada arrives to intercept the Protostar, the Living Construct is unleashed, forcing Dal, Gwyn, and the crew to make an impossible choice. As the crew realizes they have to destroy their ship to save the Federation, Jonah learns a beautiful, tough lesson about heroism and sacrifice when it comes time to say goodbye to Hologram Janeway. Meanwhile, Dad geeks out over the incredible fleet of legacy Trek ships and explains why this finale succeeds where Star Trek: Picard Season 1 failed. In this episode, we discuss: The Fleet: Why Prodigy’s diverse, recognizable armada is a masterclass in fan service. The Heartbreak: Jonah’s emotional reaction to Hologram Janeway staying behind, and why Star Trek is such a powerful tool for teaching kids empathy. The Real Janeway: Vice Admiral Janeway's realization of what the Protostar crew truly sacrificed. Season 2 Update: We are taking a short break, but My Next Generation will return in mid-July as we dive into Season 2! Listener Question: Star Trek is all about storytelling that touches the heart. What is ONE storyline or episode in the Star Trek franchise that resonated with you the most emotionally? Let us know in the Q&A section below! Join the Crew! Thank you so much for joining us for Season 1! If you're enjoying our father-son journey through the stars, please hit Subscribe and leave us a 5-star rating to help other geeky parents find the show.
S1 · E9
June 22 · 31 min
Freaky Friday in Space! Ep 9 Ghost in the Machine and Mindwalk
Happy Birthday, Jonah! He is officially 5 years old—which, as Dad realizes, is the exact age he was when he first discovered Star Trek in 1987! After a week of camping, Nessie hunting, space ice cream, and cake, we are back to tackle two of our absolute favourite episodes of Star Trek: Prodigy so far. This week on My Next Generation, we're breaking down Episodes 17 and 18: "Ghost in the Machine" and "Mindwalk." First, the crew experiences a classic Trek rite of passage: a Holodeck malfunction! Jonah reviews the crew's custom programs, from Jankom Pog’s street-fighter simulation to a pirate ship that shoots fruit out of a cannon. Then, things get wild when Dal and Vice Admiral Janeway accidentally swap bodies in a hilarious, high-stakes Freaky Friday scenario. In this episode, we discuss: Jonah’s 5th birthday and Dad's memories of watching The Voyage Home and The Next Generation at the exact same age. The brilliance of the Dal/Janeway body swap. Dad’s passionate defense of Prodigy: why it is the perfect gateway show for a younger audience, and why shows like this are so vital for the future of the Star Trek franchise. 🗣️ Question of the Week: What would your regular holodeck program be? Let us know in the comments or leave a review! Join the Crew! If you're enjoying our father-son journey through the stars, please hit subscribe on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, and leave us a 5-star review! It helps other geeky parents find the show.
S1 · E8
June 8 · 36 min
"I Have to Tell My Friends About Star Trek!" Ep 8: All the World’s a Stage and Preludes
It turns out that trying to watch two lore-heavy Star Trek episodes back-to-back with a 4-year-old, who just came from a trampoline birthday party fueled by cake and balloons, was a mistake! This week on My Next Generation, Dad and Jonah are tackling Star Trek: Prodigy Episodes 15 and 16: "Masquerade" and "Preludes." While the double-feature format tested Jonah’s attention span, it also led to the ultimate proud-parent milestone: Jonah’s heart for Prodigy has grown so much that he actively wants to tell his friends all about Star Trek! While Dad geeks out over the massive reveal of Dal’s origin as an Arik Soong genetic augment and the tense skirmish in the Romulan Neutral Zone, Jonah is absolutely mesmerized by one thing: Murf bursting out of a "hamster ball" to use his new legs and kick some bad-guy butt! In this episode: The "fatal flaw" of the back-to-back episode viewing strategy. Dal’s DNA: 26 different species and a massive tie-in to TNG and Picard. Murf’s epic evolution into a humanoid fighter. A deep dive into "Preludes," the unique backstory episode that reveals the tragic but beautiful origins of Rok-Tahk, Zero, Jankom Pog, and the Diviner. Dad's rant on the frustration of Prodigy being removed from Paramount+ and why preserving this show for kids is so important. Question of the Week: If you could have the inherent traits of ANY Star Trek species, which species and which trait would you choose? Let us know in the comments or leave a review! Join the Crew! If you love seeing the final frontier through the eyes of a child (and relating to the chaos of parenting), please hit subscribe on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, and leave us a review!
S1 · E7
June 3 · 23 min
First Contact with a 4-Year-Old's Attention Span. Ep 7: All the World’s a Stage and Crossroads
Welcome back to My Next Generation! This week, the realities of podcasting with a four-year-old finally catch up with us. While Jonah might be retiring his "thumbs up/thumbs down" rating system for the day, his love for Star Trek: Prodigy is stronger than ever. In this episode, we’re tackling two massive, lore-heavy adventures: "All the World's a Stage" and "Crossroads." Dad geeks out over some amazing Original Series and Next Generation deep cuts (The Galileo shuttlecraft! Ensign Garrovick! Okona!), while Jonah is completely mesmerized by Murf's big transformation. In this episode, we discuss: The "Enderprizians" and why having faith in the ideals of Starfleet is so important. Jonah’s theories on Murf: Is he turning into a butterfly, or just a "person with legs"? The crew’s chaotic first contact with the real Vice Admiral Janeway, and a daring escape into the Romulan Neutral Zone. A hilarious behind-the-scenes story about Jonah seeing a poster for Lower Decks and fiercely defending his favorite crew: "That's not my Star Trek!" A quick heads-up: Dad’s voice is a little raspy this week (blame the Arsenal Champions League match!), and we experienced a slight echo with our microphones. Thank you for bearing with our technical hiccups—we'll have the audio back to pristine condition next week! Be sure to listen to the very end for a sweet, impromptu musical performance from Jonah. Join the Conversation! What was your very first Star Trek series? Let us know in the comments or leave a review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. If you love seeing a new generation discover the final frontier, please hit subscribe and share the show with a fellow Trekker!
S1 · E6
May 25 · 28 min
Space Whales, The Borg, and Romulan Toys. Ep 6: Asylum and Let Sleeping Borg Lie
What happens when a 4-year-old meets the Borg? Find out on this week's episode of My Next Generation! Dad and Jonah continue their journey through Star Trek: Prodigy by reviewing "Asylum" and "Let Sleeping Borg Lie." Join us as we discuss the crew's disastrous first contact with a Starfleet relay station, the discovery of a dangerous weapon aboard the Protostar, and a terrifying mission onto a dormant Borg cube. Along the way, Jonah shares his thoughts on "space mermaids," rates the crew's escape plans, and proves that friendship is the ultimate defense against assimilation. Question of the week: What should Jonah watch after we finish Prodigy? The Original Series or The Next Generation? Drop a comment and let us know! Don't forget to subscribe, leave a 5-star review, and share this episode with a friend!
S1 · E5
May 19 · 32 min
Starfleet Doesn't Kill People! Ep 5: A Moral Star pt 1&2
It’s a massive mid-season finale event on My Next Generation! This week, we are tackling Star Trek: Prodigy’s epic two-parter, "A Moral Star" (Parts 1 & 2). But Dad and 4-year-old Jonah aren’t exploring the Delta Quadrant alone—we’ve brought in a very special guest: Grandad! Listen in as three generations of our family squeeze onto the sofa to watch the Protostar crew execute a daring rescue mission. Jonah takes on the role of First Officer, trying to explain the plot to his Grandad, cheering on his favourite character (Rok-Tahk), and revealing the shocking secret of where the Protostar's missing warp core went (spoiler: Murf ate it). Beyond the couch-climbing and crash-landing reenactments, Dad uses the episode to talk to Jonah about what it really means to be in Starfleet. We discuss why the Federation chooses rescuing over revenge, how Rok-Tahk discovers her true potential as an engineer, and why the "good guys" don't just kill the bad guys. Finally, Dad takes a moment at the end of the show to address a hot topic from the listeners: Is a 4-year-old too young to be watching Star Trek? Join the Conversation: What should Jonah watch next? Should we stick with Prodigy, jump back to The Animated Series, or brave some early TNG? Let us know! Leave a comment on our YouTube channel, hit us up on Threads, and don't forget to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you're enjoying the mission so far! Connect with Rik Carranza: Discord: https://discord.gg/5DrBNp4 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rikcarranza... Threads: https://www.threads.net/@rikcarranza BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/rikcarranza.... TikTok: https://www.TikTok.com/rikcarranza
S1 · E4
May 11 · 31 min
Thumbs down for bad guys Ep 4: First Con-tact and Time Amok
Episode 4 of My Next Generation Podcast. Comedian, stage host and podcaster, Rik Carranza, introduces his 4 year old to Star Trek. Starting with Star Trek Prodigy. This week they're discussing Episodes 7 & 8. First Con-tact and Time Amok. Connect with Rik Carranza: Discord: https://discord.gg/5DrBNp4 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rikcarranza... Threads: https://www.threads.net/@rikcarranza BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/rikcarranza.... TikTok: https://www.TikTok.com/rikcarranza
S1 · E3
May 4 · 38 min
Jonah Discovers the No-Win Scenario. Ep 3: Terror Firma and Kobayashi
In this week's installment of My Next Generation, Rik and his 4-year-old son, Jonah, double down on the action by reviewing episodes 5 and 6 of Star Trek: Prodigy: "Terra Firma" and "Kobayashi." First, the duo explores the terrifying "Living Planet," discussing Gwyn's pivotal character growth as she chooses her new crew over her father’s betrayal. Rik breaks down the clever "educational" moments of the show—like navigating by the stars—while Jonah shares his surprisingly positive thoughts on the giant spider-robot, Dreknok. Then, things get legendary as Jonah is introduced to the Kobayashi Maru. Rik explains the significance of the "No Win Scenario" and nerds out over the return of legacy voices like Spock, Uhura, Odo, and Dr. Crusher. Plus, don't miss Jonah’s unique interpretation of the Holodeck and his revelation that spiderwebs apparently taste like coconut! Whether you’re a long-time Trekky or a parent looking to introduce your own "next generation" to the final frontier, join us for a heartwarming and hilarious look at the lessons of leadership, teamwork, and humility. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify to help us grow our crew!
S1 · E2
April 27 · 27 min
Replicators, Living Vines, and a Thumbs Down. Ep 2: Star Struck & Dreamcatcher
Welcome back to My Next Generation, the podcast where comedian Rik Carranza and his 4-year-old son, Jonah, explore the universe of Star Trek one episode at a time! In this second installment, the family settles in for a double feature of Star Trek: Prodigy, covering Episode 3, "Starstruck," and Episode 4, "Dreamcatcher." Rik breaks down the crew's first real test as they narrowly avoid a collision with a dying star, all while Dal struggles with his distrust of authority and Hologram Janeway’s guidance. We also get a look at the wonders of the USS Protostar, including the 3D-printed shuttlecraft and the crew's discovery of the replicators (leading to Jonah’s dream order of "hundreds of sausages"). However, things take a darker turn on a mysterious M-class planet. Rik discusses the brave storytelling choices in "Dreamcatcher" and why the living vines and the appearance of the Diviner led to Jonah’s very first "Thumbs Down" for being a little too scary. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify to help us grow our crew!
S1 · E1
April 20 · 41 min
"Is that a Death Star?" Ep 1: Lost and Found Pt 1&2
Welcome to the series premiere of My Next Generation, the podcast where comedian and Trek enthusiast Rik Carranza introduces his 4-year-old son, Jonah, to the final frontier! In this inaugural episode, Rik explains why he chose the animated series Star Trek: Prodigy as the perfect entry point for a new generation of fans. We dive deep into the two-part series opener, "Lost and Found," exploring the mining colony of Tars Lamora and meeting our motley crew: Dal, Rok-Tahk, Jankom Pog, Zero, Gwyn, and the indestructible Murf. Rik shares his personal history with the franchise and breaks down the action-packed discovery of the USS Protostar. Most importantly, we hear Jonah’s hilarious and honest first impressions—from his "Death Star" confusion to his lack of fear toward the Diviner. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify to help us grow our crew!

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