Sci-fi Talk

In this premiere episode of Journey to Arrakis, we open the doors to the vast, windswept universe of Dune by going straight to the source. Author and biographer Brian Herbert joins us for an intimate conversation about his father, Frank Herbert, the mind behind one of the most influential science‑fiction sagas ever written. Brian reflects on Frank’s creative process, the philosophical roots of the Dune universe, and the personal experiences that shaped the novel’s themes—ecology, power, religion, and human potential. Together, we explore how a single story about a desert planet grew into a cultural touchstone that continues to challenge and inspire readers more than half a century later. Featured Audio With permission from Macmillan Audio, this episode includes select clips from the audiobook of Dune, offering listeners a vivid entry point into the world of Arrakis: Princess Irulan’s private writings, which frame the political and historical tensions surrounding Paul Atreides A dramatic moment in which Pa