Surprise! Special Episode Now Available

Surprise, everyone! You can now listen to the first Wolf 359 Special Episode, Change of Mind, through Spoke

A few months ago, thanks to the overwhelming generosity of our recurring donors on Patreon, we got to begin work on a special project, one we've been wanting to do for the last two years. The idea was to create a one-off flashback episode, taking us back to Captain Lovelace's first mission on the Hephaestus and her original crew. Today, thanks to additional support from our friends at Spoke, this Special Episode is finished. You can now listen to our new, feature-film-length, never-before-heard episode, Change of Mind

In order to get this new episode, head on over to Spoke's website or download their mobile app. If you're not familiar with Spoke, they're a new app for podcasts from Sirius XM. They're all about making the podcasting experience social, and helping you find amazing new content you're going to love. Don't worry - the Special is available for free, and you don't need to sign up for anything - although we highly recommend you do! They took production on this special to next level, and are doing amazing things for the audio community, so definitely check out their work. (And who knows... you might find a couple more new Wolf 359 tidbits hiding out in their directory.)

But for now, please enjoy the first Special Episode of Wolf 359. And man, what an episode it is. It's not just our longest episode to date (over two hours!) but also one of our most ambitious, most intimate, and most twisted outings to date. We got to work with amazing actors and musicians in creating this audio adventure. We loved making this, and we hope you'll love listening to it. 

Please be advised this episode of Wolf 359 contains violence. Listener discretion is advised.

***

Captain Lovelace, commanding officer of the U.S.S. Hephaestus Station, is not having a great week. She's butting heads with Communications Officer Lambert, her pedantic second-in-command. Doctors Hui and Fourier, her astrophysicists, seem more interested in an upcoming stellar flare than in basic station safety. Her engineer, Fisher, is getting fed up with the constant bickering, and her chief science officer, Doctor Selberg, isn't exactly... dependable. But things really take a turn for the worse when her superiors at Command decide it's time to put her crew through a very special training exercise, one carefully tailored to get under their skin. Lovelace, Lambert, and the rest of the crew must come together if they hope to make it through the longest, strangest, and most dangerous day of their expedition so far. Plus, apoplectic fugue states, emotional decision-making, corporate acid trips, never-before-seen attractions, and work of real substance.

This episode was written and directed by Gabriel Urbina, from a story by Lillian Holman, Cecilian Lynn-Jacobs, Sarah Shachat, and Gabriel Urbina. It features voice work by Beth Eyre, Ariel Estrada, Peter Coleman, and Mary Kate Wiles. It also features Paradise Valley by Honey and the Sting. Listen to more of their work at their Bandcamp.

Thank you so much to everyone who donated to Patreon over the past months. This episode was only possible due to your generosity, and we are forever in your debt for allowing us to tell this story. And thank you, once again, to our friends at Spoke. They took what was going to be a quick side detour and turned it into an epic journey we could have never undertaken by ourselves. 

Stay tuned: the beginning of Season 4 - the beginning of the final season - is just around the corner! 

Episode 46: Boléro

And after the crash... the echo. This is it: the last chapter of the year. Episode 46: Boléro is now live! 

As Eiffel, Minkowski, and Hera reel from the results of their mutiny, it soon becomes clear that even worse dangers might be right around the corner. With everyone's psyche in a delicate state and the chances of survival mounting against them, the crew has to decide how to spend their last hours before the alien contact event. Plus, the Grand Ol' Opry, ooga-booga, evolution, the oncoming alien-pocalypse, and getting by with some help from your friends. 

Tonight's episode was written and directed by Gabriel Urbina. This episode features Boléro by Maurice Ravel. 

As always, many, many thanks to everyone who has helped us to make the show and get the word out about it. Special, extra love to our monthly backers at the Wolf 359 Patreon campaign. If you want to help us make more Wolf 359 in the future, please consider signing up for a monthly donation - just a dollar per month makes a huge difference! Or, if you would rather help us reach new listeners, please leave a review on our iTunes page

And... that's it for this year of Wolf 359! We made it, somehow. We are so touched and amazed by how many went with us on the crazy journey that was Season 3. Getting to make this show and share it was a source of joy and light in a very trying year. Thank you all. For everything. 

Happy Holidays... and see you next year! 

Episode 45: Desperate Measures

NOTE: This episode of Wolf 359 contains gun violence. Listener discretion is advised.

After the plunge comes... the crash. Ready or not, here we go!  Episode 45: Desperate Measures is now live! 

Part two of two. The crew desperately tries to salvage their mutiny and escape the wrath of the SI-5. But as both sides try to out-maneuver each other, the danger of drastic actions causing irreparable damage becomes more and more pronounced. Plus, the hands of the enemy, disciplinary tools, recreational monster hunting, warning shots, and disgusting pieces of human garbage.

Tonight's episode was written and directed by Gabriel Urbina.

As always, a special thank you to everyone who has helped us to make the show and to get it to the ears of people who might like it! An especially loud shout out to all of our monthly backers at the Wolf 359 Patreon campaign. If you enjoy the show and want to help us close our third year in style, please consider signing up for a monthly donation - even a dollar per month makes a huge difference! Or, if you would rather help us with your words, please leave a review on our iTunes page

Stay tuned - there's just one more episodes left before the end of the season, and trust us: you're not gonna want to miss it.

Episode 44: Desperate Times

And... here we go. The beginning of the end of Season 3. The plunge. Hope you are all ready, because Episode 44: Desperate Times is now live! 

Part one of two. Still reeling from recent revelations, the crew plans to neutralize Colonel Kepler and the SI-5. But it's not long before different factions insist on conflicting ways to overcome their enemies - and about the level of force the situation calls for. Plus, clinical descriptions, war crime fuel, different approaches to weasel-popping, situations of absolutely elephantine proportions, and a lovely set of steak knives.

Tonight's episode was written and directed by Gabriel Urbina.

As always, a very special thank you to everyone who helps us to produce the show and to get it out there to find an audience. An especially loud shout out to all of our monthly backers at the Wolf 359 Patreon campaign. If you enjoy the show and want to help us close our third year in style, please consider signing up for a monthly donation - or at least leave a review on our iTunes page!  

Stay tuned - there's two more episodes left before the end of the season, and things are only going to go faster and faster... 

Episode 43: Persuasion

Get ready, everybody. The end of Season 3 is almost upon us. This is the deep breath before the plunge... 

The time has come - the time to listen to Episode 43!  Visit our Season 3 page to listen to Persuasion!

With just over a day left before the long-anticipated alien contact event, Colonel Kepler keeps the crew working overtime to get the Hephaestus ready for anything - and everything - that might happen. As they work around the clock, however, the crew finds that Wolf 359's turbulent air space and a side project of Doctor Hilbert's might offer some unique challenges and some unexpected opportunities. Plus, Q-branch gizmos, Santa's Workshop, studly, manly things, bedtime reading, and the latest in Hephaestus Fashion. 

Tonight's episode was written by Zach Valenti and directed by Gabriel Urbina.

As always, thank you so much to everyone who helps us get this show made. An especially warm thank you and an especially loud shout out to all of our monthly backers at the Wolf 359 Patreon campaign. If you enjoy the show and want to help us close our third year with a bang, please consider signing up for a monthly donation - or at least leave a review on our iTunes page!  Thank you, from everyone on the show, for everything you do for us - we couldn't make the show without you! 

Stay tuned - there's three more episodes left before the end of the year! It's all free fall from here on out... 

Episode 41: Memoria

All righty folks, this is it! Our biggest, grandest, weirdest episode ever! Part two of two, are you ready to go into Memoria? Visit our Season 3 page to listen to Episode 41!

With Hera out of commission, Doctor Maxwell attempts a difficult reconstructive procedure on the unresponsive autopilot program. Before she can even begin, however, she will have to navigate through the shifting landscape of Hera’s memory banks, a task infinitely more complex than it might appear at first glance. Plus, subjective realities, really loud pinball machines, deleted scenes, attempted crew member homicide, and a backdoor into the subconscious.

Tonight's episode was written and directed by Gabriel Urbina.

As always, thank you so much to everyone who has helped us make Wolf 359. An episode as aggressively weird and personal as this one could not be made without your support. So whether you're leaving reviews on our iTunes page or supporting us on Patreon or just sharing the show with your loved ones: thank you

Stay tuned - there's five more episodes left before the end of Season 3! 

Episode 40: Limbo

It's time for the next turn in the roller coaster! Episode 40, Limbo, is now live! Visit our Season 3 page to listen to the newest chapter!

While most of the crew tries to enjoy a rare moment of downtime, Doctor Maxwell discovers some previously undetected flaws in the station's systems. When her suspicions about these faults are proven right, the crew is forced to have a series of unexpected and difficult conversations. Plus, the Cybermen Appreciation Society, Cold Shower September, the master of the prank, everlasting funstoppers, and a big pink Heffalump that only you can see. 

Tonight's episode was written by Sarah Shachat and directed by Gabriel Urbina. 

As always, thank you so much to everyone who has helped us make Wolf 359. Whether you're leaving a review on our iTunes page, signing up for a monthly donation on our Patreon campaign, or participated in the growing online discussions about the show, it means so much to everyone involved on the team that you listen to and support the show!   

Stay tuned - one of our most ambitious episodes to date is right around the corner!

Episode 39: All Things Considered

Hope that you've had a chance to recover from Happy Endings, because Episode 39, All Things Considered, is now live! Visit our Season 3 page to listen to the newest chapter!

After a technical mishap causes Jacobi's latest experimental gizmo to discharge within the Urania, a number of the SI-5's personal items are vented into space. A furious Colonel Kepler assembles everyone who was involved, hell bent on determining which of his underlings is at fault. But when Minkowski, Jacobi, and Eiffel each present wildly different accounts of the event, he and Captain Lovelace discover that determining the why, the how, the when, and the who is responsible for this snafu might be trickier than it first appears. Plus, willful destruction of property, outright libel, Thunderdome, excellent opportunities for science, and Exit 101. 

Tonight's episode was written by Sarah Shachat and directed by Gabriel Urbina. 

As always, thank you so much to everyone who has helped us and supported us in making, promoting, and distributing this crazy little show. Whatever you've done, whether it's leaving a review on our iTunes page, signing up for a monthly donation on our Patreon campaign, or just sharing the show with a friend or loved one, words cannot express what a difference it makes in our lives. 

Stay tuned - seven more episodes left in Season 3! Any predictions for what's coming next? 

Mini Episode 13: Kansas

This is it! The final episode in our backstories series! Visit our Season 3 page to listen to Kansas

In tonight's episode, Captain Warren Kepler undergoes an evaluation. This episode was written by Zach Valenti and directed by Gabriel Urbina. 

But wait - there's more! As part of our backstories mini series, we are releasing individual Spotify playlists for each of our characters! In these you'll find songs that we think resonate with who the characters are, how they view the world, and how they process their emotions and conflicts. And, of course, some songs they enjoy and listen to! Click here to check out the Kepler playlist! 

Stay tuned - you've made it through the long summer hiatus. Next week... Episode 38: Happy Endings

Mini Episode 12: Pagliacci

The summer's almost over! It's time for the second-to-last episode in our backstories series! Visit our Season 3 page to listen to Pagliacci

In tonight's episode, Communications Specialist Douglas Eiffel considers consequences and responsibilities. This episode was written by Zach Valenti and directed by Gabriel Urbina. 

But wait - there's more! As part of our backstories mini series, we are releasing individual Spotify playlists for each of our characters! In these you'll find songs that we think resonate with who the characters are, how they view the world, and how they process their emotions and conflicts. And, of course, some songs they enjoy and listen to! Click here to check out the Eiffel playlist! 

Stay tuned - just one more mini episodes to go, and one week later... Episode 38: Happy Endings

Mini Episode 11: Decommissioned

Happy August 15th! First things first, it's Mini Episode time! Check out the sixth episode in the backstory series! Visit our Season 3 page to listen to Decommissioned

In tonight's episode, Unit 214 is given a second chance to prove her value as a company asset. This episode was written by Zach Valenti and directed by Gabriel Urbina. 

But wait - there's more! As part of our backstories mini series, we are releasing individual Spotify playlists for each of our characters! In these you'll find songs that we think resonate with who the characters are, how they view the world, and how they process their emotions and conflicts. And, of course, some songs they enjoy and listen to! Click here to check out the Hera playlist! 

In addition to that, today is the show's two-year anniversary! On August 15th, 2014, we released our first three episodes, and began this crazy journey. Thank you so much for making these past two years as mind-blowing, fulfilling, thrilling, insane, and just all-around unbelievable as they've been. We couldn't have done this without you - and next year is going to be even crazier. 

Stay tuned - just two more mini episodes left before the end of the summer! 

Mini Episode 10: Things That Break Other Things

Happy Monday! It's that time again - check out the fifth episode in the backstory mini series! Visit our Season 3 page to listen to Things That Break Other Things

In tonight's episode, Daniel Jacobi celebrates an anniversary. This episode was written by Zach Valenti and directed by Gabriel Urbina. 

But wait - there's more! As part of our backstories mini series, we are releasing individual Spotify playlists for each of our characters! In these you'll find songs that we think resonate with who the characters are, how they view the world, and how they process their emotions and conflicts. And, of course, some songs they enjoy and listen to! Click here to check out the Jacobi playlist! 

Stay tuned - just three more mini episodes left before the end of the summer, and Episode 38: Happy Endings is just around the corner! 

Mini Episode 9: Greensboro

Halfway there, halfway there! Check out the fourth episode in our backstory mini series! Visit our Season 3 page to listen to Greensboro

In tonight's episode, Air Force Captain Isabel Lovelace faces an unexpected test. This episode was written by Zach Valenti and directed by Gabriel Urbina. 

But wait - there's more! As part of our backstories mini series, we are releasing individual Spotify playlists for each of our characters! In these you'll find songs that we think resonate with who the characters are, how they view the world, and how they process their emotions and conflicts. And, of course, some songs they enjoy and listen to! Click here to check out the Lovelace playlist! 

Stay tuned - four more mini episodes are coming out before the end of the summer, and full episodes resume in September! 

Mini Episode 8: Language Mapping

It's that time of the week again! Check out the third episode in our backstory mini series! Visit our Season 3 page to listen to Language Mapping

In tonight's episode, Doctor Alana Maxwell tries to solve an irritating problem. This episode was written by Zach Valenti and directed by Gabriel Urbina. 

But wait - there's more! As part of our backstories mini series, we are releasing individual Spotify playlists for each of our characters! In these you'll find songs that we think resonate with who the characters are, how they view the world, and how they process their emotions and conflicts. And, of course, some songs they enjoy and listen to! Click here to check out the Maxwell playlist! 

Stay tuned - five more mini episodes are coming out before the end of the summer! 

Mini Episode 7: Rebranding

Happy Monday! Check out the second entry in our backstory mini series! Visit our Season 3 page to listen to Rebranding

In tonight's episode, Doctor Dmitri Volodin gets a visit from a man who wants to know more about his experimental research. This episode was written by Zach Valenti and directed by Gabriel Urbina. 

But wait - there's more! As part of our backstories mini series, we are going to be doing something special: we are releasing individual Spotify playlists for each of our characters! In these you'll find songs that we think resonate with who the characters are, how they view the world, and how they process their emotions and conflicts. And, of course, some songs they enjoy and listen to! Click here to check out the Hilbert playlist! 

Stay tuned - there'll be six more episodes coming out before the end of the summer! 

Mini Episode 6: Once In a Lifetime

Happy Summer, everyone! And to celebrate the sweltering heat of July, we've just released our first backstory mini episode! Visit our Season 3 page to listen to Once in a Lifetime

In tonight's episode, Air Force Lieutenant Renée Minkowski considers an unusual opportunity. This episode was written by Zach Valenti and directed by Gabriel Urbina. 

But wait - there's more! As part of our backstories mini series, we are going to be doing something special: we are releasing individual Spotify playlists for each of our characters! In these you'll find songs that we think resonate with who the characters are, how they view the world, and how they process their emotions and conflicts. And, of course, some songs they enjoy and listen to! Click here to check out the Minkowski playlist

Stay tuned - we'll be releasing backstory mini episodes every Monday for the next seven weeks! 

Episode 36: Fire and Brimstone

Are you ready for the next chapter in the Hephaestus Chronicles? Episode 36, Fire and Brimstone, is now live! Visit our Season 3 page to listen to the newest installment!

An accident leaves Dr. Maxwell in imminent danger and the entire station in a state of emergency. The crew scrambles to mount a rescue, but when Kepler and Minkowski disagree over which is the best way to conduct the operation and which way will get them all killed, long simmering tensions between the current and the former commanders come to a head. Can the fractured crew come together in time to prevent a catastrophe? Plus, towering infernos, strategic advantages, rank insubordination, the crazy train, and a very judicious application of explosives.

Tonight's installment is the first episode written by Emma Sherr-Ziarko. It was directed by Gabriel Urbina. 

As always, thank you so much to everyone who has supported us in making this show, especially everyone who's left a review on our iTunes page and to everyone who's signed up for a monthly donation on our Patreon campaign. We are so grateful for all the help that we've gotten from you guys in making the show and spreading the word to new listeners. We really couldn't do this without all of you behind us, so thank you! 

Episode 35: Need to Know

This is it, the moment we've been waiting for: Episode 35, Need to Know, is now live! Visit our Season 3 page to listen to the latest from Eiffel and the gang. 

As they struggle with a demanding schedule, an expanding workload, and Colonel Kepler's growing secrecy, tensions amongst the crew members - both old and new - are on the verge of a breaking point. But when a technical glitch gives Minkowski, Lovelace, Hera, Jacobi, and Maxwell a chance to peak behind the curtain, they soon discover they might be in over their heads. Plus, the Dick Dastardly Administration, self-evident statements, basic motor control, pathological fears, and hostile assaults on the senses. 

This episode was written and directed by Gabriel Urbina. 

As always, thank you so much to everyone that has supported us in making this show. Thank you to all of you who have left a review on our iTunes page. Thank you to everyone that's signed up for a monthly donation on our Patreon campaign. Thank you if you've shared the show with a friend. Thank you if you've listened to the show. May has been one of the best months ever for the Wolf 359 team, and so much of it is because of all of you. So really, from the bottom of our hearts: thank you

Stay tuned... something very different is just around the corner... 

Mini Episode 5: Long Story Short

Can't wait for the release of Episode 35 on Monday? Never fear - here's a little something to get you through the weekend! Visit the Season 3 page to listen to Mini Episode 5: Long Story Short!

In this short installment, Jacobi reflects on his relationship with Colonel Kepler. This episode was written by Sarah Shachat, and Directed by Gabriel Urbina.

Stay tuned - we'll see you on Monday for Episode 35: Need to Know! 

Episode 34: A Matter of Perspective

Aaand... here... we... go! Episode 34, A Matter of Perspective, is now live! Visit our Season 3 page to listen to the latest from Eiffel and the gang. 

When the Urania's radio picks up and loses the first deep space signal in months, Colonel Kepler puts everyone on high alert. Split into two teams and forced to stay up on an all-night stakeout, the crew must find ways to keep busy and face unique challenges. On the Urania, Eiffel, Jacobi, and Kepler contemplate their place in the universe. Meanwhile, on the Hephaestus, Minkowski, Hera, Lovelace, and Maxwell confront a threat unlike any they've ever encountered. Plus, the wheel of ages, kitchen sinks, nuclear winter rounds, teenage love lives, and Funzo.

This episode was written and directed by Gabriel Urbina. 

As always, thank you so much to everyone that has done anything to help us make the show. Whether that's leaving a review on our iTunes page, signing up for a monthly donation on our Patreon campaign, or just sharing the show with a friend, every bit helps. Well, that's an understatement. Every bit moves mountains. There we go, that's better. We had our most successful months to date in April(!!!), so thank you all: it means so much to have your support. 

Stay tuned... more Wolf 359 is right around the corner.