John M. Ford with Victor Raymond - Episode 289 - 3/30/2026

About this episode

Shane talks with John M. Ford and Victor Raymond about Ford's contributions to science fiction, fantasy, and RPGs.

The one and only, amazing, science fiction and fantasy writer, game designer, and poet, John M. Ford (aka "Mike") with Dr. Victor Raymond. A very quick Tékumel update. John M. Ford won a prestigious award for a Christmas card. In addition to his novel writing, he also wrote for RPGs, including Traveller, GURPS, Star Trek, Paranoia, and Ghostbusters. Paranoia is a joyful HOOT. John M. Ford's take on Klingons (including linguistics) is excellent and sublime, and it's a shame it's not Star Trek canon. "Realistic" space combat in science fiction. Reading a John M. Ford novel is a very rewarding exercise in inference. Recommendations on where to start in his bibliography. A brief digression into Harlan Ellison. Sweet memories of Mike (and Darklands, too). Shane Plays Geek Talk Episode #289 - 3/30/2026 Like what you hear? Support Shane Plays Geek Talk on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/shaneplays Listen to the Shane Plays Geek Talk podcast on YouTube, SoundCloud, iTunes, Google Play Music, Amazon Music, Podbean and Stitcher (and other fine, fine podcast directories). Hey, you! Yeah, you! Buy cool stuff, support Shane Plays Geek Talk with these affiliate links! Humble Bundle…

People in this episode

Host: Shane Stacks

Guests: John M. Ford, Victor Raymond

Topics covered

• science fiction
• fantasy
• game design
• literature
• RPGs
• awards
• linguistics

Keywords

• John M. Ford
• Victor Raymond
• science fiction
• fantasy writer
• RPGs
• Paranoia
• Star Trek
• linguistics
• awards
• Harlan Ellison

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: Traveller, GURPS, Star Trek, Paranoia, Ghostbusters

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