Talking Star Trek Adventures w/ Al Spader, Meric Moir, and Michael Dismuke
Strange New Pod beams up an incredible trio for this special episode as Julian sits down with the writers behind the Star Trek Adventures Second Edition Starter Campaign: Al Spader, Meric Moir, and Michael Dismuke.
Together, they dive into the creative heart of the campaign, exploring the inspiration behind its story, how it welcomes brand-new TTRPG players into the Final Frontier, and the guiding philosophy that shaped its design.
From crafting accessible mechanics to building a narrative that captures the spirit of Trek, this conversation goes boldly into the development process and all the surprises along the way. Whether you're a seasoned GM or opening your first rulebook, this is an interview you won’t want to miss. Engage!
Michael Dismuke
Author
Michael Dismuke is a writer, editor, podcaster, producer, workshop presenter, and corporate communicator with a passion for storytelling across genres and platforms.
He is the lead writer of Captain’s Log Solo RPG and a contributor to over 20 Star Trek Adventures publications—both from Modiphius Entertainment. He has also written media tie-ins for Star Trek Explorer magazine. In 2011, Michael self-published his Gamemasters manga, earning a spot on San Diego Comic Con’s Comic Connection panel. As part of The Yellow Hand, he collaborates on RPGs like Ashland, Sentience, Saucer Squadron [Redacted], and Tales of Menace & Mystery.
As co-host of the Continuing Conversations podcast, Michael explores the TTRPG and storytelling space. He also leads workshops at conventions and conferences, helping individuals and organizations unlock the power of narrative.
When he’s not writing, he’s working out, watching Star Trek, or playing with the worms in his compost heap.
Meric Moir
As the Plotweaver RPG Director for Brotherwise Games, Meric works full time in the TTRPG industry writing, designing, and developing roleplaying games. He's written for the Cosmere RPG, Star Trek Adventures, The Expanse RPG, Achtung! Cthulhu, Fantasy AGE, and more. He also runs a streaming channel called Sky Hammer Press and used to run a podcast called Massive Damage Adventures, both focused on TTRPGs.
Al Spader
RPG Writer and Designer
Al Spader is a 7th grade science teacher, RPG Designer, Freelance Writer, and father of twin boys who brings his knowledge of neurodivergence and social emotional learning to every game he creates and writes for.
