Oct 1, 2025
Interview with Star Trek: Khan writers Kirsten Beyer and David
Mack.
Legacy isn't reserved for heroes. Some characters leave a mark not
through their nobility, but through the incredible shadow they
cast. Few exemplify this better than Khan Noonien Singh. Decades
after his first appearance, Khan continues to shape the Star Trek
universe - his presence echoing through generations of stories,
creators, and fans alike. His legacy raises a fascinating question:
what happens when a villain becomes just as iconic, just as
influential, as the heroes they oppose?
In this episode of Literary Treks, hosts Jonathan Koan and Casey Pettitt speak with Star Trek: Khan writers Kirsten Beyer and David Mack. They talk about the writing process, casting and recording, making it sound like Star Trek, allegory, the mind of a villain, and much more!
Feature: Kirsten Beyer and David Mack
Genesis of Khan Podcast (02:58)
Writing for Audio (05:29)
Collaboration (06:47)
Nick's Vision (07:41)
Late Night Episode Breaks (09:50)
Podcast vs Audiobook (12:00)
Production Involvement (14:40)
Nick's Vision (again) and Canon (15:56)
Sounds Like Star Trek, Sounds Like Khan (17:00)
Recording and Casting Marla (19:46)
Allegory and Villains (21:23)
Just Trying to Tell a Good Story (28:30)
A Contained Narrative (33:09)
Give Us More Stories! (33:58)
Wrap-up (36:11)
Closing (38:59)
Hosts
Jonathan Koan and Casey Pettitt
Guest
Kirsten Beyer and David Mack
Production
Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive
Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Casey Pettitt (Associate
Producer)
Stream below or subscribe to listen at:
Website - http://www.trek.fm/literary-treks/3374
Choose your podcast app: https://trekfm.link/lt-efm