Improvised Star Trek

524
Improv #81

Improvised Star Trek explores the final frontier of comedy by turning Star Trek into an improv office comedy. Taking suggestions submitted on Twitter and Facebook, the cast (featuring some of Chicago’s top improvisors) creates a fully improvised episode detailing the adventures of the USS Sisyphus, a less enterprising starship. New episodes are posted every other week. To learn more about the show check out our website, facebook page, or twitter! Improvised Star Trek is fan production. Star Trek is property of CBS/Paramount.

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Recent Reviews
  • Ber1n2025
    Mind Parasite
    Whereas I used to have a Simpsons quote for every situation, I now have an Improvised Star Trek quote for every situation. Have listened to the entire run many times in the last few years, and episodes like Table For One and Pirates of the Cosmos still make me laugh til I cry. Thank you IST!
  • hopscotch5000
    Neat stuff
    I’ve listened through several times now and always love it can’t go wrong with it
  • 1bonn
    If I may… this show is canon.
    And, if I may, the Star Trek universe is better for it.
  • If-then-else
    I don’t even watch regular Star Trek but I…
    Fun show, have me laughing the whole time. Quirky and did say funny? Yes, that and silly, the perfect invention!
  • Kumqatninja
    This show is my best friend
    I’ve listened to the Sisyphus at least seven times all the way through. I discovered on stitcher. Planning to do my next listen along on this app y’all. Improvised Star Trek is like the greatest show. I cannot find anything better, well... “there is no such thing as better, only different”
  • Micr0chasm
    Just fun
    I found improvised Startrek from Magic Tavern. It’s similarly just a good natured and fun experience to listen to. Its nice, funny background to your day.
  • Quitters Prosper
    Just discovered this because of Hello From the Magic Tavern
    Much like HFTMT, I started listening and couldn’t stop. First episode last night and now into the 40’s. Nice to hear where some of the long running jokes started! - Tiny horses.
  • kierkegaard2.0
    Improvisers Find The Funny and Heartfelt In Star Trek
    This podcast is worth listening the entire way through, to hear a team of improvisers gradually develop, through the typical episodic nature of a Star Trek show, a set of characters with distinctly quirky and funny characters that explore the Star Trek universe, shining a light on its merits and flaws.
  • scoffpig
    A ray of sunshine in these dark times
    I discovered this podcast during the 2020 lockdown, a few months after they ended their ~10 year run. It's honestly been such a wonderful thing to be able to escape the horrors of lockdown life, to be able to listen to a happy podcast set in a utopian future about a bunch of emotional misfits who're all just getting by. It's a lot of fun to listen to, and get to know the characters as they grow and their backstories build and intertwine. There's an obvious and deep appreciation of the Star Trek canon, which is frequently referenced. It sounds as though the cast have a blast making it.
  • RevTed
    A classic for the ages!
    I discovered this well after their conclusions but there is so much to catch up on. Clever, funny, and often absurd, it is infectious how much fun the crew appear to be having doing it.
  • Dustin M Esquire
    If you love Comedy and/or Star Trek, this is for you
    Of course I learned about this podcast exactly 2 weeks before they ended their 9-year run. But I love this podcast, have now listened to all of them an just listen to random episodes on repeat. The characters are hilarious, but you can also tell that they actually know a lot about the Star Trek franchise . I only hope that this good review will help get a few more listeners and maybe get the cast a bit more money (if that’s how podcasts work). Hate that it’s over, but so thankful for the years these folks put in. I’m in Chicago a lot, so fingers crossed that they do a reunion live show in the future.
  • Stevo574920472939
    Spot (The Cat)
    I’m so happy that Spot is showing up more.
  • Geeksplorepod
    Clever and reverent Star Trek comedy improv.
    This is one of my favorite podcasts period. Unfortunately they have finished their run, but I wanted to put my love for the show on the record. This is a show made by Trek fans for Trek fans. The players have such a reverence for the source material that even though they are insane characters in ridiculous situations it still feels right. They are all brilliant improve actors. I can confidently say that this is my favorite Star Trek (even though it is unofficial) of the decade. Thank you very much IST for the hours of joy you brought me. Live long and prosper.
  • natefoobar
    It's about G-D time
    Well iTunes... I've been listening to podcasts since, I think, 2011. And this is my first review. I owe more than a few podcasts a review. So it's funny that my first review is for the Improvised Star Trek, less than a month before their final episode. And the reason I'm doing this is: it's really that good. I'm in the midst of relistening to the IST and I can truly say this is one of my absolute favorite podcasts. It's hilarious. This is improv comedy at its absolute best. The things that the crew of the USS Sisyphus get up to are unimaginable and hysterical. I dunno what else to say. Sorry to everyone for not reviewing sooner and I'll miss you all dearly. Fingers crossed there's another podcast up your sleeves, because I hate to think of a world without the IST cast in it.
  • hiktmlik
    The best
    I’ve been listening since 2015 and loved how the characters progressed. Because it was improvised the comedy was amazing I would recommend this to any Trekkies who wants something different
  • EMJWI
    It's Been A Great Mission
    Flying around with this crew has been a blast. The Sysiphus will remain a part of my Trek Universe, and I'll enjoy relistening to IST episodes years from now, joining the crew on their past missions and encounters. Like a never-ending Nick at Nite temporal loop. Thanks for the years of entertainment!
  • Sargent Salt
    Thank you Improvised Star Trek cast and crew
    I rode a bicycle 90 miles from Milwaukee to Chicago to see their final live show! That is the best recommendation I can give. It’s the funniest, smartest podcast out there. Thanks for so many great episodes over the years!
  • RichGaley
    Hilarious
    I've only recelntly discovered this podcast have started with the backlog to listen to episodes in order. Right now I'm up to April 2013 and it's hilarious. Kudos.
  • Not a 12 year old
    Exactly what I’m looking for👍👩‍🍳💋
    Went on a Star Trek binge and was wondering/hoping there was a comedy or improv show exactly like this. So this podcast is *chefs kiss* perfection.
  • messgirl
    So so so good
    This is such a fun podcast! I find myself laughing on public transit quite a bit.
  • teem0
    As good as it gets!
    This show combines my love of all things Star Trek with my love for all things theatre and imrov! I consider myself a decent actor with a modicum of improv skills and these guys and gals are top-shelf! Everything about this show is terrific. I just wish they would go on the road more often!! Well done, all! Keep up the GREAT work!
  • Lost Marimo
    Makes me laugh so hard I forget how to breathe
    — For anyone who is intimidated to listen to this because they have never seen any Star Trek, DON’T BE! You do not need to have seen the show to enjoy this! — I listen to a lot of improv podcasts. Some of my favorites are Mission to Zyxx, Hello from the Magic Tavern, Off Book, Illusionoid, Alba Salix, etc. But Improvised Star Trek is the absolute best out of all of them. The characters are lovable and funny and unique, the dynamic between them is seamless, even though there is a lot of them every episode is fun and different, but they are still able to remember all these little details and side characters from week to week so the world is always building. These people are so talented. It baffles me how a big group of people can collectively tell a compelling story with a beginning middle and end, with an A-plot and B-plot, with funny bits and dramatic bits, with everybody playing multiple characters, with no planning!! And never wrestling for control of the plot! Crazy. I’m writing a review before I start my third time listening to it all the way through. It’s been more than two years since I listened to any of the early episodes but I’ve got a long drive ahead of me. Road trips are a great way to trap your friends and family and make them listen to the podcasts you like until they are as obsessed as you are. Muahahaha This review is already way too long but did I mention the sound editing is incredible? Sounds just like an actual episode of Star Trek. Side note: Ever get the feeling that at some point Captain Baxter goes on an undercover mission to past earth under the alias John Bastion, marketing manager? Very disconcerting.
  • C0m3dy
    Over 5 stars
    Truly the greatest podcast I have ever listened to and I listen to a lot. a must listen to for all Star Trek fans
  • Ben Kelder
    Simply incredible.
    I first heard about this podcast about a month ago, and have been motoring through episodes ever since. Fantastic characters, hilarious stories, and incredibly immersive-yet-ludicrous sound editing. I'd recommend this podcast to anyone who likes Star Trek, improv, or better yet, both rolled into one.
  • Lady Pl4y
    A Must-Listen for Improv Fans
    I’ve watched every episode of Next Gen at least twice, but that’s not why I love The Improvised Star Trek. Okay, that’s part of the reason. But what I truly admire is the cast’s ability to “yes and” each other and really listen to everyone. The riot of unexpected results carries over episodes until listeners are enmeshed in an alternate reality of ... well, I don’t want to spoil any secrets. It’s totally worth following this podcast! Sound quality has improved considerably over the years, and the character arcs are hilarious. Listeners can interact with the cast by suggesting titles for future episodes. I’ve been binging this series for weeks and am trying to get my boyfriend to take me to Chicago so we can watch a live show (we live in Philly; it’s be a great trip). I love you all! Whee!!!
  • Cheesic23
    🤯😂🤣
    I heard about this podcast from another amazingly hilarious improv comedy podcast, Hello From The Magic Tavern, and I wish I’d found this one sooner. Improv comedy is the best. I’m not really a Star Trek fan but I love this podcast anyway. It’s freaking hilarious! You’re going to love this podcast so go ahead and subscribe now!
  • Kaladiel
    Brilliant
    Improvised Star Trek isn't just a genuinely hilarious improv comedy podcast, it's actually a truly well built Star Trek universe. The cast is so talented, and I love the number of women involved (passes the Bechdel Test for sure!) Extra shoutout to Matt Young, who's always my favorite no matter the podcast.
  • JohnKrunch
    Near Perfect
    One of the best comedy podcasts out there. Not just a good Star Trek podcast. It’s the best continuing comedy on podcast show made yet.
  • KrisGallagher
    The Star Ship I Live On
    I'm a longtime Star Trek fan, and this lovely improv troop obviously is, too. I dream of serving on the Enterprise--my real life is a lot more like the Sisyphus, which means this poscast is the perfect antidote to an otherwise frustrating day. I make people on the Chicago L nervous when I laugh out loud and then can't stop. Live long and keep listening!
  • briarrosie
    Laughed out loud
    Highly recommend for stress and relaxation
  • NotaMaquisTerrorist
    This is acting podcast reviewer Frank Spankley...
    Not gonna lie, we will all miss acting doctor/chef/chief security officer Rip Stipley big time, but there have always been plenty of awesome cast members to ensure the show is great and i'm sure this will continue. I find myself going back to listen to earlier episodes multiple times over and laughing as hard as the first listen through. Keep up the great work and don't ever stop boldly going where no one has gone before!
  • houseofdarkly
    Set Phasers to Fun
    I wasn't sure what to expect from this show initially and was a bit of a latecomer, but once I was caught up it went on my list of podcasts I listen to the moment new episodes come out. As a lifelong Trek fan, the deep cut (sometimes VERY deep) references and jokes really delight me. But that's window dressing that you don't need any familiarity with to enjoy the show. It's unpredictable, absurdist, and hilarious; but it also has a huge amount of genuine heart, in the way that only people who care deeply about Star Trek and each other could manage. And you'll wind up caring deeply about the crew of the Sisyphus, too.
  • AbelH
    Boldly Going Where They Probably Shouldn’t
    Endlessly entertaining and inventive- this podcast is a delight to listen to. It’s light and funny, and the cast consistently delivers excellent performances. Just avoid the hamnesia and you’ll be fine...
  • Hellywood
    Always Go With Your First Impulse
    I'm a late comer to this podcast but it has quickly become one of my favorites. It's incredibly funny and the performers grow more deft the longer you listen. I'm only a third of the way through (just finished 73 Pirates of the Cosmos) and I haven't laughed this hard at a podcast in a long time. I can't wait to tear through the rest. Keep up the awesome work Improvised Star Trek Crew, you have made another lifelong fan.
  • JamesZa
    A Very Deft Maneuver
    Incredibly funny show crafted by a tight cast of improv actors. It is a rarity to have such a large group of actors in a podcast, which makes it so much more special that they are able to pass the ball so effectively. Everyone in the show pulls their weight, their isn’t a weak player on the team. It’s completely improvised on the spot, yet they are able, through the strength of the team, to make a compelling and hilarious story every week. I started listening through Hello From the Magic Tavern, another Chicago based podcast, and am excited to see the future of Chicago improv podcasts.
  • CaptainRyan007
    Klingon Pop Warrior Got Me Hooked...
    I first discovered Klingon Pop Warrior in 2017 back at Starbase Indy. In enjoying her songs I eventually learned from her about her start and just how much Improvised Star Trek helped. I heard the first podcast and have been hooked since. Thank you so much for the entertainment and bringing the art of improv to Star Trek. I enjoy all of the podcasts in addition to the different genres and aspects brought into each episode. Please keep it up. Hopefully I will be able to see it live sometime, too.
  • Jadzia 1701
    Literally the best!
    This show has the comedy and wit of shows like the Orville and the office, but it’s Star Trek! In my heart I believe that the USS Sisyphus and her crew is canon in the Star Trek Universe, and these characters will always be the best! It’s always so hard to pick favorites, but for me, it’s a close tie between Loram, captain Baxter, and Reta.
  • tersegal
    Wish I lived in Chicago, because...
    Sweet Yeebus I love this show.
  • Anna Poulton
    Never laughed so hard in my life!
    I love IST! They have such a unique style of improv, and all the editing work put into the show really maximizes my enjoyment of every episode. I enjoy catching all the subtle Star Trek references hidden in the show too, but even if you've never watched Star Trek before, you will still enjoy this! IST also does so many great parody episodes. "A Game of Captain's Chairs" is one of my favorties!
  • Isaac the Slitherclaw
    Great podcast!
    This is a great podcast, and also quite engaging. It tells stories that manage to be both evocative of Star Trek:TNG and also constantly hilarious, both while constrained to just the audio medium.
  • Pluto's Orbit
    It’s like an alternate universe Star Trek loafed with chaos
    One next gen episode had an alternate universe Riker in a ship about to explode. I always wondered what a series would be like if alternate Riker’s crew was the cast and just got in to the worst chaotic nonsense every episode and things never get resolved. It was a funny idea to me. This podcast exquisitely does what I’ve wanted to experience in a Star Trek. Chaos. Hilarious chaotic nonsense. Thanks for making this.
  • Dakkon Hinderlie
    To Boldy Laugh...
    This is absolutely my favorite podcast right behind Welcome to the Magic Tavern. Matt Young you’ve got a talent and a half. Thank you and all the amazingly talented folks who crew the Sisyphus.
  • -Turtles-
    My favorite improv group!
    This crew is phenomenal! Made it through the first 110 episodes in less than two months, and they still never fail to make me laugh. Would love to go to a live show in the future.
  • Oreally71
    Do you like Star Trek and improv comedy?
    If you do then you’ll probably really like this podcast. I look forward to new episodes of this more than any other Star Trek content currently being produced.
  • Ofhauntings
    This podcast is my happy place
    I've been listening to IST for about a year now and the whole show just feels like home to me. The characters, as ridiculous as they are, combined with scenarios only great improv could come up with (not to mention top tier editing and sound design) creates one of my favorite podcast atmospheres ever. Whether I need a good laugh or just a distraction, I can always rely on IST being there to give me the sweetest, nerdiest audio hug around. Love you guys <3
  • DearZeus
    Amazingly Hilarious
    If you like Star Trek and you like improv/sitcoms then you'll love this show. Even if you don't like Star Trek but you do enjoy shows like Magic Tavern then you should give this a listen. The characters are hilarious, the stories are basically TNG with way more mishaps, and I've always, always laughed when listening. Give it a shot!
  • TonyEW63
    More addictive than bubble wrap!
    As a long-time Star Trek fan, I entered my podcast search quite awhile back and up popped The Improvised Star Trek. Needless to say, it didn’t take very long before they had me following their adventures as if I had been caught in their tractor beam. Love what they do and I know you will, too! Set course for the nearest black hole!
  • Lt. Leordi GaForge.
    If I May...
    ...I would just like to say over the ship all-call that this podcast boldly goes to my favorite era of Star Trek and I love it! Needs more Ensign Spot.
  • Bbbbbbrrrriiiii
    Improv and Beyond
    If you love Star Trek, you’ll love this. If you love improv, you’ll love this. Frankly, if you don’t love either, I’d still listen! The cast is amazing. I found this recently when looking for something to fill the time between episodes of some other podcast I listen to and this has become my main love now. I started from the beginning, which is absolutely worth it, and I haven’t found an episode that doesn’t make me laugh out loud. Matt Young is an amazing captain and improviser(also Usidore from Hello From the Magic Tavern) and Chris Rathjen’s voice is soothing to my soul. The other improvisers are new to me, but I’m in love already. The characters are very distinct. There’s plot within each episode that makes sense! It’s everything you’ll love in a good Trekkie podcast! Listen! You won’t regret it.
  • JGH v3.0
    Podcast Networking is Awesome!
    Hi guys! I tell anyone I know who’s a science fiction fan to listen to your podcast and it’s sheer awesomeness. I first heard of Improvised Star Trek through an advertisement on Hello from the Magic Tavern Podcast and I heard about Hello from the Magic Tavern through an advertisement on The Truth Podcast. I heard about The Truth when I heard an episode on Boston NPR on a Sunday afternoon when coming home from work and lastly I never listened to NPR before I met my wife (who listened to it all the time). So I guess I have her to thank with the gift of your podcast. Networking is awesome! I’ve always been a long time Star Trek fan and love the improvisation I hear. It’s absolutely amazing. I’ve been listening to the podcasts on my drives to and from work for I think the last 2 months and am almost caught up. And as a thought...I’m not sure if you ever seen”Biggles Adventures in Time” (a movie from the 80s featuring a man who slips back in time to WWI to meat his “time twin” and destroy a ultimate war weapons (small part in it with Peter Cushing) but I think it might be an interesting twist as”Lorems Adventures in Time.” Anyhow keep up the awesome work. Some day I hope to get to Chicago to catch a live show (I’m in Massachusetts just outside of Boston). Take care guys.
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