A new work protocol eliminating "buffer time" has the Lower Decks crew running ragged as they try to keep up with their tightened schedules. Ensign Mariner and Commander Ransom’s mutual lack of respect comes to a head during an away mission.

Tawny Newsome (Ensign Beckett Mariner)
Jack Quaid (Ensign Brad Boimler)
Noël Wells (Ensign D'Vana Tendi)
Eugene Cordero (Ensign Sam Rutherford)
Dawnn Lewis (Captain Carol Freeman)
Jerry O'Connell (Commander Jack Ransom)
Fred Tatasciore (Lieutenant Shaxs)
Gillian Vigman (Dr. T'Ana)

Neil Casey
Kevin Michael Richardson (Vindor)
Sam Richardson (Ensign Vendome)
Jessica McKenna (Cerritos Computer)
Michelle Wong (Starfleet Admiral)
Nolan North
Paul Scheer (Lt. Commander Andy Billups)