Casual Space

Michelle Lucas knows what it means to chart your own course—especially when the stars aren't clearly mapped. In this heartfelt conversation, Michelle recounts her unexpected trajectory from a third-grader dreaming about rockets in a refrigerator box "space station" to becoming a NASA flight controller and the founder of Higher Orbits, a nonprofit bringing students' experiments to actual space. Beth and Michelle explore how childhood curiosity, persistent grit, and a few key mentors launched Michelle into the heart of space exploration—and how she's now using that same passion to light the path for others. Beth and Michelle unpack the realities of navigating NASA's culture, what safety really looks like behind the scenes, and how working in space changed Michelle's approach to life on Earth. Oh, and don't miss a fun connection Beth and Michelle laugh about: a wax-molded space shuttle from Chicago's Museum of Science and Industry. More About Michelle Lucas: Michelle is the founder of Higher Orbits, a nonprofit organization that uses spaceflight to excite and engage students in STEM, leadership, teamwork, and communication. Before launching Higher Orbits, Michelle served in multiple roles at NASA, including flight controller, instructor, and safety team member. She's a lifelong space enthusiast who believes deeply in mentoring the next generation of explorers—and still proudly owns a cassette tape of her first astronaut shoutout from space. If you're in the Chicagoland area, you can meet Michelle at the Galactic Golf Outing on May 13—a fundraiser where you can literally tee off with astronauts to support Higher Orbits' mission. (Bonus: It's hosted at the Glenn Club, once home to Neil Armstrong's naval station.) Connect with Michelle and support student STEM dreams at higherorbits.org. If you enjoyed this episode and would like to share, I'd love to hear it! We're sending stories to space AND sea! Launching MISSION 05 this week, and you'll want to make sure you have a place on board- www.storiesofspace.com Join me and our guests for all of our conversations and stories at: LinkedIn - @casualspacepodcast Facebook - @casualspacepodcast Instagram - @casualspacepodcast YouTube - @casualspacepodcast83 or email me at beth@casualspacepodcast.com.

Shawn Linam, Aerospace Entrepreneur & Host of In Her Orbit Podcast Shawn Linam's journey didn't start with a telescope or dreams of rockets—it began with candy striping, biomedical engineering, and a resilient heart that would eventually take her to NASA. Listen for a candid conversation about the challenges and joys of being a woman in the space exploration industry, raising kids while growing a company, and navigating a professional trajectory that's anything but linear. Shawn shares the behind-the-scenes truths of her extraordinary career: from training astronauts at Johnson Space Center to co-founding her own company after a surprise layoff (while on maternity leave!). Together, Beth and Shawn reflect on NASA culture, building confidence in male-dominated fields, and why mentoring the next generation—especially girls in STEM—is the legacy that matters most. About Shawn Linam: Shawn Linam is the co-founder and CEO of Qwaltec, a space systems operations and training company. Before launching her own business, she served as a NASA trainer supporting the International Space Station and Shuttle programs. Today, she leads In Her Orbit, a podcast amplifying women's voices in STEM and beyond. A mom, leader, and advocate for women in space-related careers, Shawn continues to mentor, speak, and support others as they launch their own bold missions. 🚀 Explore her podcast In Her Orbit wherever you listen to podcasts 🌍 Learn more about Shawn's work at qwaltec.com Follow Casual Space Podcast, share and subscribe at LinkedIn - @casualspacepodcast Facebook - @casualspacepodcast Instagram - @casualspacepodcast YouTube - @casualspacepodcast83 or send me an email at beth@casualspacepodcast.com Thanks for listening to Casual Space!

With zero prior flight experience but a deep love for space (and Star Trek), Matt Gohd took the helm of Zero G during a pivotal moment and helped guide the company into a new era—one marked by resilience, accessibility, and unforgettable experiences that allow everyday people to float like astronauts. In this episode, Beth and Matt explore the incredible evolution of Zero G—from its bold beginnings inspired by Peter Diamandis to flying 22,000+ people, including Stephen Hawking and Apollo astronaut Charlie Duke. Matt shares what it took to revive the company after near shutdown, launch flights during a global pandemic, and expand access to space-like experiences for everyone—especially through impactful initiatives like AstroAccess, which brings disabled individuals aboard to test space accessibility solutions. Listeners will love the behind-the-scenes stories of lunar pushups, parabolic protocols, and even the "best nap of your life" after your flight. About Matt Gohd: Matt is the Chairman of Zero Gravity Corporation (ZERO-G), the only commercial provider of weightless flight experiences in the U.S. With a background in finance and a passion for turning bold visions into reality, Matt stepped in during a critical time to relaunch the company and bring spaceflight simulation to the masses. Since then, he's been instrumental in growing Zero G's impact, forging partnerships, expanding operations across the country, and championing inclusion in space. Zero G now operates in cities like Houston, San Jose, New York, and even from NASA's Kennedy Space Center, offering public flights, corporate experiences, and research missions for institutions prepping for lunar missions. Check out GoZeroG.com to learn more, book a seat, or get updates on where the plane will fly next. (Use code "MAT10" to save 10% on your own weightless adventure.) Matt also highlights collaborators like Tim Bailey (the heart of Zero G), marketing pro Erin, and CEO Kevin Sproge, who brings military and Blue Origin astronaut training expertise to the team. And don't miss the mention of Jose Hernandez, NASA astronaut and subject of A Million Miles Away, who often joins flights to inspire the next generation. To learn more about AstroAccess and their mission to make spaceflight accessible for all, visit astroaccess.org. ☁️💫 Whether you're curious about the science of weightlessness or dreaming of floating like an astronaut, this is an episode that will lift your spirit—and maybe your feet—off the ground. Follow Casual Space Podcast, share and subscribe at LinkedIn - @casualspacepodcast Facebook - @casualspacepodcast Instagram - @casualspacepodcast YouTube - @casualspacepodcast83 or send me an email at beth@casualspacepodcast.com Thanks for listening to Casual Space!

Ben Tackett Show Notes TITLE: Lunar Landings & Late-Night Shifts: Ben Tackett from Firefly Aerospace on Blue Ghost Mission 1" This week on Casual Space, it's one small step for your playlist — one giant landing for a Blue Ghost…this episode delivers big on space, story, and spirit! Beth is joined by Ben Tackett, Lead Systems Operator at Firefly Aerospace, to relive the extraordinary journey that took him from Purdue classrooms to helping land a spacecraft on the Moon. Ben shares how his early love of aerospace evolved into a hands-on career that's shaping the future of space exploration. From collaborating with Buzz Aldrin on a Mars colonization project, to working the operations console for Blue Ghost Mission 1, Ben gives us a raw and real look at what it takes to bring a mission like this to life. In this episode, you'll hear about: The long nights, tight timelines, and 500+ hours of simulations that made history possible Real-time moments of awe: lunar images streaming in after touchdown The behind-the-scenes grit of small teams doing big things Why parking lot champagne tastes better after a lunar landing And what's next with Blue Ghost Mission 2, featuring payloads from the European Space Agency and a radio telescope bound for the far side of the Moon Ben's story is one of curiosity, commitment, and cosmic-scale inspiration — a reminder that behind every successful mission is a team of passionate people pushing past limits. This episode captures not just the technical triumph, but the human heartbeat of spaceflight. Don't miss this inside look at a truly historic mission — and a glimpse of what's just over the horizon. #CasualSpacePodcast #BlueGhostMission1 #FireflyAerospace #MoonLanding Credit/copyright for photo/video footage: Firefly Aerospace About Ben Tackett: Ben is the lead systems operator for the Blue Ghost lunar program at Firefly Aerospace, current commercial New Space systems engineer , and a prior NASA hypersonic flight mechanics engineer. For Blue Ghost, Ben maintains the technical "big picture" of the program and ensures that the sub-systems required to make a successful spacecraft work together towards a successful mission program. In addition to Blue Ghost, Ben has been a part of the Mars Sample Return initiative as Lead Flight Mechanics Engineer for development of the Earth Entry Vehicle, supported Aerocapture and Aerogravity-Assist initiatives, and completed multiple Verification & Validation efforts for the Artemis program with the NESC. Ben completed his education at Purdue University, focusing on hypersonic mission design, re-entry trajectory guidance and optimization, and aerospace systems engineering publishing a thesis on real-time trajectory optimization for onboard optimal control. If you enjoyed this episode and would like to share, I'd love to hear it! YOU CAN HELP US SEND STORIES TO SPACE! Please visit our GoFundMe campaign and help send more stories to space! https://gofund.me/62f1ff87 Follow Casual Space Podcast and share your favorite episode: LinkedIn - @casualspacepodcast Facebook - @casualspacepodcast Instagram - @casualspacepodcast YouTube - @casualspacepodcast83 Got a great guest suggestion or idea for the show? E-mail me at beth@casualspacepodcast.com. Send your story to space TODAY! The window for STORIES of Space MISSION 03 AND MISSION 04 are NOW OPEN! Send your story, for free, to www.storiesofspace.com

Andrew Parris, Broadcast Television Engineer and Space Communicator, joins Beth from the Cape for a long-overdue chat about life behind the lens at NASA and beyond. With over four decades in broadcast television and thirteen action-packed years at NASA, Andrew shares his extraordinary journey—from diving with astronauts and filming space shuttle landings, to flying on NASA's "Weightless Wonder." Andrew's passion for space never fizzled, and today, he's helping others chase their own cosmic dreams through The Inspired 24, a group he co-founded to expand access to the space experience and the Overview Effect. In this episode, Beth and Andrew launch into memories of SCUBA dives at the WETF, share laughs about zero-G adventures gone sideways (literally), and open up about the emotional impact of witnessing spaceflight tragedies firsthand. Andrew also walks us through his recent work with AstroAccess, supporting inclusive microgravity flights, and Copernic Space, sending stories and digital mementos to the Moon. You'll hear about the human moments behind the missions, the stories you don't see on screen, and the joyful chaos of bridging the technical with the emotional in NASA's most public-facing roles. Andrew's reflections—equal parts heartwarming, hilarious, and humbling—remind us that space exploration isn't just about rockets and research. It's about people, passion, and persistence. More about Andrew Parris: Andrew Parris is a 3-time Technical Emmy award-winning Broadcast Television Engineer, space communicator, and Commercial Astronaut-in-training. He spent 13 years at NASA's Dryden and Johnson Space Centers supporting shuttle and ISS missions, astronaut training, and global documentation efforts—including trips to Russia and the Baikonur Cosmodrome. After his NASA years, he helped launch the first all-HDTV network with Mark Cuban and directed live coverage of STS-114's launch and landing. Today, he leads The Inspired 24 community, volunteers at Space Center Houston, and partners with space-forward orgs like Copernic Space, MoonDAO, and AstroAccess. He's flown multiple commercial zero-G flights and is preparing for a stratospheric balloon mission with World View in 2026. Want to connect with Andrew or join The Inspired 24? Head to theinspired24.com. Call sign Titan is always ready to welcome fellow space dreamers aboard. If you enjoyed this episode and would like to share, I'd love to hear it! beth@casualspacepodcast.com Want to hear more about the incredible AstroAccess Zero G Mission? Listen to episode 138 with Zero-G's Tim Bailey: https://www.bethmund.com/casual-space-podcast/2021/0930/138-tim-bailey You can follow our Casual conversations on Casual Space and share in the socials, LinkedIn - @casualspacepodcast Facebook - @casualspacepodcast Instagram - @casualspacepodcast YouTube - @casualspacepodcast83 YOU CAN HELP US SEND STORIES TO SPACE! Please visit our GoFundMe campaign and help send more stories to space! Each dollar helps send a story. https://gofund.me/62f1ff87 or email me at beth@casualspacepodcast.com. *Remember!!! You can send your story to space TODAY! The window for STORIES of Space MISSION 03 and MISSION 04 is NOW OPEN! Send your story, for free, to www.storiesofspace.com

Returning guest Steve Matier, CEO of Maritime Launch Services, joins the podcast to share the latest developments in the rapidly growing satellite industry and how Maritime Launch is shaping the future of commercial spaceflight. As the first commercial spaceport in Nova Scotia, Maritime Launch is poised to provide critical access to orbit for satellite companies worldwide. Steve discusses the increasing demand for launch capabilities, the challenges of global launch site logistics, and how Maritime Launch stands apart. With a prime location on the 45th parallel, a deep-sea port, and a strong regional infrastructure, the site offers unparalleled access to key orbital inclinations. He also explains the significance of the newly signed Canada-U.S. Technology Safeguards Agreement, which enables American launch vehicles and payloads to operate from Canadian soil, opening vast market opportunities. Beyond launching rockets, Maritime Launch is diversifying its operations with suborbital testing, data downlink ground stations, and satellite processing facilities. Steve provides a behind-the-scenes look at their innovative leasing model for multiple launch providers, ensuring a flexible and efficient solution for companies seeking reliable and frequent launch opportunities. About Steve Matier & Maritime Launch Services Stephen Matier, President and CEO of Maritime Launch Services, is the visionary and driving force behind the development of Spaceport Nova Scotia, a world-class commercial space complex that will launch Canada into the global space industry. A mechanical engineer (Bachelor of Science, University of New Mexico, 1989) and an award-winning former NASA contractor engineering manager (NASA White Sands Test Facility), Matier is leading coordination and approval among provincial, federal, and international governing bodies, securing private financing, leading satellite sales, coordinating launch vehicle integration, and selecting best-in-class commercial firms to support launch operations at Maritime Launch. As part of Steve's work with Maritime Launch, he is driving the collaboration and partnerships that will support the development of a safe and environmentally sustainable commercial space launch market in Canada. With satellite and launch vehicle clients within Canada and around the globe interested in launching from Spaceport Nova Scotia, Maritime Launch is joining a global industry that will exceed one trillion dollars annually within the next 20 years. While Steve's day-to-day focus is squarely on developing Canada's first commercial spaceport, his interest in space extends beyond the technology and the launch itself. Steve has a passion for teaching, which means he is never far from the classroom—whether guest lecturing at a local high school physics class in Canso or presenting to kids at summer programs in Antigonish. He has driven partnerships with St. Francis Xavier University and Cape Breton University and is a supporter of Dalhousie's cubesat program. His passion for working with schools began in his early career in the Space Shuttle program, recognizing that kids can look up into space and see opportunity for themselves on the ground. Steve is a recipient of the prestigious Silver Snoopy Award, an honor in recognition of outstanding achievements related to human flight safety or mission success. His leadership in Canada's space sector continues to create new opportunities for commercial space access and international collaboration. Connect with Maritime Launch Services Visit MaritimeLaunch.com for updates and developments. Follow Maritime Launch on LinkedIn and X for real-time insights. Stay tuned for upcoming launches and new partnerships as Maritime Launch prepares for its first orbital mission in 2026. This episode is a must-listen for space industry professionals, entrepreneurs, and anyone curious about the evolving landscape of commercial spaceflight.

Award-winning author and astrophysicist Alan Smale joins the podcast to share his unique journey of weaving hard science and historical fiction into gripping alternate-history narratives. From his NASA career studying X-ray astronomy to crafting meticulously researched novels that reimagine space exploration and ancient civilizations, Alan's storytelling is as rich as the history that inspires it. Alan discusses how his extensive travels and deep scientific knowledge influence his writing, leading to immersive stories like the Clash of Eagles trilogy and the Apollo Rising series. He explores the inspiration behind his latest work, highlighting the Apollo program's alternate path had space exploration continued at full speed beyond the 1970s. With detailed world-building and intense character development, Alan's books challenge readers to consider how history might have unfolded differently. Through engaging storytelling, Alan shares insights into the creative process, the importance of critical thinking in science and fiction, and the evolving landscape of space exploration. He also provides a behind-the-scenes look at the editorial process, his approach to writing large-scale narratives, and the personal stories that shape his characters. About Alan Smale Alan Smale is a physicist and author known for blending history, science, and fiction into compelling alternate-history novels. With a background in astrophysics at NASA, he brings a unique perspective to his storytelling. His books, including Clash of Eagles and the Apollo Rising series, have been widely acclaimed for their meticulous research and captivating narratives. Connect with Alan Smale Visit AlanSmale.com for updates, books, and upcoming projects. Follow Alan on Facebook and X for insights into his writing and space science. Apollo Rising: Burning Night, the final book in the trilogy, releases later this year—stay tuned for updates! This episode is a must-listen for fans of historical fiction, space enthusiasts, and those fascinated by the intersections of science and storytelling.

Barry Matsumori is no stranger to space, but his latest mission takes flight in a whole new way. As CEO of Skydweller Aero, he leads the charge in developing an autonomous, solar-powered aircraft capable of perpetual flight. In this episode, Barry shares how his transition from satellites and rockets to high-altitude aircraft opened new possibilities for Earth observation, communication, and global connectivity. He explains how Skydweller Aero's innovative aircraft operates in 'near space,' bridging the gap between satellites and traditional aviation while unlocking groundbreaking applications for government, commercial, and humanitarian use. Skydweller isn't just an aircraft—it's a revolution in aerial technology. With a staggering 236-foot wingspan, this lightweight, solar-powered plane stays airborne for weeks at a time, providing a cost-effective alternative to satellites. Barry discusses how its autonomous capabilities, ultra-quiet operation, and low-cost deployment make it a game-changer for monitoring environmental changes, supporting disaster response, and even detecting early signs of wildfires. The potential applications are endless, from enhancing maritime security to delivering broadband in remote areas. Barry also explores the challenges of bringing perpetual flight to reality, from navigating aviation regulations to optimizing autonomous flight systems. He shares fascinating insights into the engineering marvel that allows Skydweller to loiter over critical areas, providing real-time data with unparalleled precision. And for those wondering about the plane's name? It's as poetic as it is functional—Skydweller quite literally dwells in the sky, redefining how we think about flight. About Barry Matsumori: Barry Matsumori has had an extensive career in aerospace, having worked with leading companies such as SpaceX and Virgin Orbit. His expertise spans satellite technology, launch systems, and now, the pioneering world of high-altitude, solar-powered aircraft. With over two decades of experience in developing cutting-edge space and aviation technologies, Barry is at the forefront of shaping the future of flight. Want to see Skydweller in action? Keep an eye out for upcoming test flights and potential showcases at major aviation events. You can also check out footage of its incredible capabilities online—just search for 'Mississippi Skydweller' to see the reactions of stunned onlookers witnessing its silent, solar-powered flight. Connect with Skydweller Aero: Skydweller Aero WebsiteBarry Matsumori on LinkedIn The future of flight is here, and it's powered by the sun. Buckle up and join us as we explore the limitless possibilities of perpetual aviation! STORIES TO SPACE just announced MISSION 04! What's MISSION 04? We're teaming up with our local community college students to send YOUR submitted stories into the STRATOSPHERE on a weather balloon! So get your stories now, we will be launching end of April/ early May, weather depending! www.storiesofspace.com You can follow and share in the socials, LinkedIn - @casualspacepodcast Facebook - @casualspacepodcast Instagram - @casualspacepodcast YouTube - @casualspacepodcast83 or email me at beth@casualspacepodcast.com. And, here is your invitation for the ONE-SPACE celebration! Carrying on the spirit and legacy of YURI'S NIGHT Space Coast, ONE-SPACE is happening for one night only on April 12, 2025, at the iconic Kennedy Space Center in Florida. This inaugural event is a celebration of pioneers and dreamers—from the first steps on the Moon to the new frontiers of private spaceflight, we'll gather to honor the past and inspire the future. Get ready for an unforgettable night: 🎶 Live Music & Dancing – Top DJs and live performances under the stars. 🛰 Immersive Space Experiences – Interactive exhibits, VR simulations & space activations. 🚀 Surprise Guests – Astronauts, engineers, visionaries shaping the cosmos. 🍸 Themed Cocktails & Cosmic Cuisine – Space-inspired drinks & bites. 🎨 Art & Storytelling Installations – Space reimagined through immersive showcases. Join us as we celebrate our collective journey into space. When: April 12 Where: Kennedy Space Center, Florida Tickets: https://sempre.one/ Save 10% with Promo Code: CASUALSPACE

Author and space historian Jay Gallentine embarks on a thrilling mission to capture the untold story of one of NASA's most influential figures—John Casani. In his latest book, Born to Explore, Jay takes readers on an exhilarating journey through Casani's remarkable career, from his unexpected entry into aerospace to his pivotal role in some of NASA's most legendary planetary missions. Casani wasn't just another project manager—he was a force of nature who refused to accept dead ends, a master of navigating complex challenges, and a mentor who inspired teams to push beyond limits. Jay shares how his original vision for the book transformed when a scheduled 20-minute conversation with Casani turned into a four-hour deep dive into his personal life, philosophies, and career-defining moments. From the Voyager program to Galileo and Cassini, John's leadership helped shape NASA's approach to planetary exploration, proving that the best missions aren't just about technology—they're about the people who make them happen. Through engaging storytelling, Jay reveals the personal side of Casani—the man who kept a smile even in the face of budget cuts, mission failures, and relentless obstacles. He also offers insight into Casani's philosophy of 'living in a world with no corners,' a mindset that turned potential mission cancellations into historic successes. About Jay Gallentine Jay Gallentine is an award-winning space historian and author known for bringing humanity to the stories behind robotic space exploration. With a knack for uncovering the lesser-known narratives of NASA's pioneers, Jay's books offer a fresh and compelling perspective on space history. Born to Explore is set to release in late 2025. Connect with Jay Gallentine Follow Jay on Facebook for updates on his books and space history insights. Stay tuned for Born to Explore, coming soon to Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and your favorite bookstores. This episode is a must-listen for space enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone who loves a good behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to explore the cosmos.

Alex Reynolds, Founder and CEO of ATTX, joins Casual Space to share his inspiring journey from a childhood fascination with flight to leading a company dedicated to democratizing access to space. Growing up in Missouri, Alex's creativity and curiosity were nurtured in a DIY workshop his mom set up in the family attic—an experience that ultimately inspired the name of his company. From building airplanes as a kid to shaping the future of space exploration, Alex's story is one of passion, persistence, and problem-solving. In this episode, Alex reflects on his work at CU Boulder's Dream Chaser program, groundbreaking satellite missions, and the launch of ATTX. His company's mission is to "open space for all through software innovation," providing accessible, ready-to-use tools that enable startups and smaller organizations to compete in the challenging space industry. Alex also shares how ATTX fosters a culture of innovation by balancing mission-focused work with a supportive, people-first approach to leadership. About Alex Reynolds Alex Reynolds is the Founder and CEO of ATTX, a company revolutionizing the space industry with innovative simulation and software solutions. With a background in aerospace engineering and years of experience on high-profile projects, Alex brings both technical expertise and visionary leadership to the table. At ATTX, Alex and his team focus on creating tools that simplify the complexities of space missions, empowering organizations to turn their ideas into reality. To learn more about ATTX, visit attx.tech or email Alex directly at alex@attx.tech. Whether you're a budding aerospace engineer, a startup founder, or simply passionate about space, Alex is eager to connect and share his knowledge. Every episode, Beth selects and shares a job listing within the space industry! You can be one of the first to know about unique opportunities by going to our LinkedIn page and social platforms! LinkedIn - @casualspacepodcast Facebook - @casualspacepodcast Instagram - @casualspacepodcast YouTube - @casualspacepodcast83 YOU CAN HELP US SEND STORIES TO SPACE! Please visit our GoFundMe campaign and help send more stories to space! https://gofund.me/62f1ff87 You can follow and share in the socials, LinkedIn - @casualspacepodcast Facebook - @casualspacepodcast Instagram - @casualspacepodcast YouTube - @casualspacepodcast83 And if you enjoyed this episode, let Beth know directly at beth@casualspacepodcast.com. Are you interested in having Beth in as your featured speaker for your conference, special event? Audiences everywhere agree; her voice is truly unique, and her programs are stellar. Inquiries for Beth's availability in 2025 can be sent to beth@casualspacepodcast.com *Remember!!! You can send your story to space TODAY! The window for STORIES of Space Mission 03 is NOW OPEN! Send your story, for free, to www.storiesofspace.com Also, to help support sending stories about space to space. Visit our 2025 GoFundMe Campaign at this link: https://gofund.me/0638ee0e