TNG: Season 1 - Episode 18-22

Marissa and Lisa continue their first-time watch of Star Trek: The Next Generation, and for the first time… things are starting to feel normal. Or maybe they’re just acclimating to the chaos.

This batch blends classic sci-fi ethics, early anti-drug messaging, and some standout character development—especially for Worf and Geordi.

🖖 Episodes Discussed

“Home Soil”

Terraforming goes wrong when the crew discovers intelligent silicon-based life. A clear anti-colonization message, a memorable insult (“ugly bags of mostly water”), and another Data-as-elite-diplomat win.

“Coming of Age”

Wesley takes the Starfleet Academy entrance exam—and doesn’t make it. A surprisingly thoughtful look at failure, fear, mentorship, and Picard finally opening up about his own setbacks.

“Heart of Glory”

Worf confronts Klingon culture, loyalty, and what it means to choose Starfleet as his family. Includes rogue Klingons, death rituals, primal screaming, and one very definitive ladder fight.

“The Arsenal of Freedom”

An automated weapons system tries to sell itself by nearly killing everyone. Geordi takes command, thinks creatively under pressure, and proves exactly why he belongs in the captain’s chair.

“Symbiosis”

Two planets locked in an exploitative drug economy force Picard into a brutal Prime Directive decision. Heavy 1980s “Just Say No” energy, moral discomfort, and a very awkward Wesley drug talk.

🌌 Big Takeaways

• Colonization and exploitation are recurring villains
• Failure doesn’t disqualify you from leadership
• Chosen family keeps showing up
• Geordi La Forge is an elite crisis leader
• The Prime Directive is… complicated
• Season 1 is finding its footing

Until next time—
Make it so. 🖖