Best Shawn Linam Podcasts (2025)

1
265: Shawn Linam: Training Astronauts, Launching a Business, and Finding Her Orbit 40:53

6d ago40:53

40:53

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 e…

1
Kirsten Whittingham: Building the Future of Space Habitats 43:45

10d ago43:45

43:45

In this episode, we’re joined by Kirsten Whittingham, President of MAX SPACE, the company developing expandable space habitats designed for greater livability, lower cost, and easier launches. With a background in aerospace engineering and leadership roles at Axiom Space and Pratt & Whitney, Kirsten brings a wealth of experience and a passion for o…

1
264: From Wall Street to weightlessness: Matt Gohd, Chairman of Zero Gravity Corporation 38:36

13d ago38:36

38:36

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 incr…

1
263: Lunar Landings & Late-Night Shifts: Ben Tackett from Firefly Aerospace on Blue Ghost Mission 1 43:20

21d ago43:20

43:20

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 Aer…

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Maraia Tanner: Engineering Access to Space and a More Sustainable Future 38:04

24d ago38:04

38:04

In this episode, we’re joined by Maraia Tanner, Chairwoman of the Board and CEO of STAR HARBOR, the company behind the world’s first publicly accessible spaceflight training facility. With a degree in astrophysics from UC Irvine, Maraia’s career spans the commercial and defense sectors, including engineering roles at TRW, Northrop Grumman, NASA, an…

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262: Andrew Parris, Broadcast Television Engineer and Space Communicator 1:00:50

27d ago1:00:50

1:00:50

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 la…

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261: Steve Matier: Expanding Access to Space with Maritime Launch 30:01

1M ago30:01

30:01

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 satel…

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260: Alan Smale: Blending Science, History, and Imagination 44:40

1M ago44:40

44:40

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 storyt…

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Lauren Fell: Bridging Quantum Cognition and the Future of Human Exploration 45:25

1M ago45:25

45:25

In this episode, we’re joined by Lauren Fell, an Outreach and Marketing specialist at Lunar Outpost Oceania and a PhD candidate in Quantum Cognition. Lauren’s cutting-edge research explores how quantum concepts shape human intuition, particularly in trust-based decision-making. Lauren has contributed to projects like reforestation in the Galapagos …

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259: Barry Matsumori, CEO of Skydweller Aero, on Perpetual Flight and the Future of Aviation 40:13

2M ago40:13

40:13

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 possibiliti…

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258: Jay Gallentine: Exploring the Legacy of John Casani 1:07:57

2M ago1:07:57

1:07:57

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…

1
Michelle Lucas: Inspiring the Next Generation to Look Towards the Stars 51:41

2M ago51:41

51:41

In this episode, we’re joined by Michelle Lucas, a trailblazer in space and education. From working at NASA’s Johnson Space Center to becoming a technical instructor for astronauts and flight controllers, Michelle’s career has been driven by her passion for space. But her journey didn’t stop there. Michelle founded Higher Orbits, a nonprofit dedica…

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257: Alex Reynolds: Founder & CEO of ATTX 54:44

2M ago54:44

54:44

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 i…

1
Diane Howard: From Fashion Executive to the White House 35:15

2M ago35:15

35:15

In today's episode, we're joined by Diane Howard, Principal of sur l'espace PLLC and Visiting Professor at UT Austin School of Law/Strauss Center for International and Security Studies. Diane takes us through her unique career journey, from the fashion industry to space law, and ultimately to her former role as Director of Commercial Space Policy a…

1
Meagan Crawford: Launching Businesses to Success 43:04

3M ago43:04

43:04

In today's episode, we're joined by Meagan Crawford, Co-Founder and Managing Partner of SpaceFund, Co-Founder of the NewSpace Business Plan Competition, and Host of the Mission Eve Podcast. This week, Meagan dives into her journey of starting her own VC firm, how startups can find success through space business plan competitions, and the importance…

1
Beth Mund: Sending Stories to Space 42:12

3M ago42:12

42:12

In today's episode, we're joined by Beth Mund, Owner of Stellar Communications, Executive Director and Founder of STORIES of Space, and Host and Creator of the Casual Space Podcast. In this week's conversation, Beth takes a seat at the other side of the podcast table where she shares her experience as a a former Public Affairs Officer at NASA'S Joh…

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Marisa Achée: Keep Your Friends Close and Your "Competimates" Closer 34:20

4M ago34:20

34:20

Today on In Her Orbit, we're joined by Marisa Achée, the Chief Business Development Officer at a.i. solutions. Join us in this week's conversation where we discuss the marriage between engineering and business development, fostering an employee-centric company culture in small businesses, and how to collaborate with your competitors, transforming t…

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The In Her Orbit Holiday Special 38:00

4M ago38:00

38:00

Today on In Her Orbit, we’re bringing together some of our favorite moments from our first year of podcasting. The conversation ranges from professional success and mentorship, to community and family, bringing a comprehensive picture to the female experience in the space industry. —- Guests featured: Dr. Tanya Harrison // Apple | Spotify Loretta H…

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256: Herb Baker 53:20

5M ago53:20

53:20

Herb Baker, NASA veteran and author of From Apollo to Artemis: Stories From My 50 Years With NASA, takes us back to a time where growing up near NASA meant working near the “Manned Spacecraft Center,” and running films to the TV station for Apollo missions. Herb took what started as a “fun job” into an unforgettable 42-year career working on the Sh…

1
255: Hank Alewine: Crunching Numbers in the Cosmos 50:10

5M ago50:10

50:10

Hank Alewine is the accountant boldly going where no CPA has gone before! A professor at the University of Alabama in Huntsville, Hank isn’t just teaching spreadsheets and balance sheets—he’s pioneering space accounting (yes, that’s a thing). In this episode, Hank chats about his career journey, from studying biology to becoming a CPA, and eventual…

1
Sheila Lucas: Building Brave Women in STEM Careers 36:48

5M ago36:48

36:48

Today on In Her Orbit, we're joined by Sheila Lucas, A Strategic Growth Leader focusing on Strategy & Business Development and Space Ground Solutions at General Dynamics Mission Systems, Inc.. Join us in this week's conversation where we explore the multitude of pathways to the space industry, and the importance of fostering confidence in young wom…

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254: Ronak Dave, NASA Johnson Space Center Flight Director 45:16

5M ago45:16

45:16

Ronak Dave is a Flight Director at NASA’s Johnson Space Center who always knew he wanted to work in Human Spaceflight Operations. His journey from a curious engineer to one of NASA’s elite is inspiring. With a Bachelor of Science in Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering from Purdue University, his path to NASA was fueled by curiosity, determin…

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Sandy Barker: Innovation in Space Education 32:46

5M ago32:46

32:46

In today's episode, we're welcoming Sandy Barker, Associate Director and Export Control Officer at The University of Texas at Austin. Join us as we discuss Sandy's experience at NASA JSC, The Texas Rocket Engineering Lab (TREL) at UT Austin, and how a strong support system is crucial to personal and professional success. --- Where to find Sandy: ht…

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253: Dr. Eiman Jahangir’s Journey to Space with Blue Origin 38:28

6M ago38:28

38:28

Dr. Eiman Jahangir, a physician, analog astronaut, and lifelong space enthusiast, shares his remarkable journey to becoming an astronaut with Blue Origin’s New Shepard. With two previous NASA astronaut candidacies and years of dedication, Dr. Jahangir’s story is resilient. He is driven by a love for science and space and his unwavering commitment t…

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Karsen Kitchen: Kármán Line First, Commencement Second 36:35

6M ago36:35

36:35

In today's anniversary episode, we are joined by Karsen Kitchen, the Founder and CEO of Orbitelle, Student at UNC-Chapel Hill, and Blue Origin Astronaut. While Karsen has been working towards her BA in Communications at UNC, she founded Orbitelle, a foundation dedicated to supporting young women in the space industry, and made history as the younge…

1
252: Anna (Hanna Sav) Harutyunyan: Armenia's First Analog Astronaut and Founder of Rocket Space Academy 41:13

6M ago41:13

41:13

Anna (Hanna Sav) Harutyunyan, is an Armenian engineer and robotics student who recently made history as Armenia’s first analog astronaut! In this episode, she joins host Beth Mund on the Casual Space Podcast to share her experiences in analog space missions, her academic journey, and her upcoming projects. Anna’s on a mission to inspire people in A…

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251: Samantha Christensen: Opening the Marley Foundation Astronomy Discovery Center at Lowell Observatory 30:54

6M ago30:54

30:54

Samantha Christensen, a long-time team member at Lowell Observatory, shares the exciting news about the grand opening of the Marley Foundation Astronomy Discovery Center in Flagstaff, Arizona. As Northern Arizona’s first science center, the 40,000-square-foot facility offers a major upgrade with cutting-edge exhibits, interactive experiences, and a…

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250: Corbett Hoenninger, General Manager of Argotec Inc. 58:10

6M ago58:10

58:10

Corbett Hoenninger, General Manager of Argotec Inc., has quite the space career. From training astronauts at NASA to helping lead the Dream Chaser’s drop tests (including a memorable crash landing), Corbett shares what it’s really like behind the scenes of space exploration. Corbett talks about the recent NASA DART mission, (giving an asteroid a nu…

1
Irene Chan: How to Pack for the International Space Station 42:53

6M ago42:53

42:53

Today on In Her Orbit we’re joined by Irene Chan, a Flight Planning Engineer at Summit Technologies & Solutions, Inc. where she brings her passion for problem solving to life in support of the International Space Station. In this episode we discuss the importance of finding a supportive profesional community, turning your passions into a career, an…

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249: Chris Quigg: Exploring Grace in All Simplicity 48:44

7M ago48:44

48:44

Chris Quigg, the celebrated theoretical physicist and co-author of Grace in All Simplicity, whisks us away on a journey through the wonders of particle physics—served with a dash of poetry and a sprinkle of grace! With a talent for turning complex ideas into accessible stories, Chris shares insights from his new book and reveals the inspiration beh…

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Dr. Timiebi Aganaba: Life as a Global Futures Scientist 55:01

7M ago55:01

55:01

In today's episode of In Her Orbit, we're joined by Dr. Timiebi Aganaba, a Senior Global Futures Scientist and Assistant Professor at Arizona State University's School for the Future of Innovation in Society. We're so excited to have her join us and share her trailblazing story of being at the forefront of space innovation across the world, inspiri…

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248: Scott Holcomb: From Space Camp to the Classroom 1:15:11

7M ago1:15:11

1:15:11

Beth welcomes movie star and educator, Scott Holcomb! Scott shares his remarkable story from his surprise audition to his role in the industry CLASSIC film, Space Camp, and how it led him to a meaningful career in education. Through humorous anecdotes and heartfelt reflections, Scott discusses the impact Space Camp (the movie AND the experience) ha…

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247: Defending Space Through Storytelling with Stuart Hardwick 1:06:50

7M ago1:06:50

1:06:50

Award-winning science fiction author and friend of the show Stuart Hardwick returns to share the story behind his latest work, Tales of the United States Space Force and his passion for space defense and storytelling. Happy WORLD SPACE WEEK! https://www.worldspaceweek.org/ We’re celebrating World Space Week with our partners, Cosmic Girls and their…

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Caryn Schenewerk: Law and Policy from Washington to Outer Space 46:13

7M ago46:13

46:13

This week we're joined by Caryn Schenewerk, the President and Founder of CS Consulting LLC, where her decades of experience in space law and public policy provide clients with unparalleled strategic guidance. Join us as we discuss Caryn's transition from government offices to commercial space, the growing space law and policy sector, and a glimpse …

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246: From Space Camp to Space Force with Col. Heather Bogstie 44:53

7M ago44:53

44:53

Welcome our first ever US Space Force guest Col. Heather Bogstie! Col. Heather Bogstie shares her journey from attending Space Camp as a young girl to becoming a key leader in the newly established United States Space Force. Together, Beth and Heather walk through Heather’s inspiring career path, her experiences as a missile operator, and her trans…

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245: Marc Hartzman 1:00:41

8M ago1:00:41

1:00:41

Marc Hartzman, friend of the show and author of We Are Not Alone: The Extraordinary History of UFOs, Aliens, and Our Hopes, Fears, and Fantasies, returns to the Casual Space Podcast to dive into the intriguing world of UFOs! Marc’s new book goes way beyond the familiar stories of iconic UFO sightings, (Roswell and the Phoenix Lights). Marc discusse…

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Amanda Golembieski: Finding Community for Career Success 39:00

8M ago39:00

39:00

In today's episode of In Her Orbit, we're joined by Amanda Golembieski, the Principal Systems Engineer at Qwaltec! Join us in our conversation about finding hands-on opportunities in college, what it's like working at Johnson Space Center, and how a supportive professional community is crucial to managing your personal and professional journeys. --…

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244: Unlocking the Secrets of Life in the Universe with Nathalie Cabrol 51:11

8M ago51:11

51:11

Nathalie Cabrol is an astrobiologist and author of, “The Secret Life of the Universe.” She’s also the Director of the Carl Sagan Center at the SETI Institute and holds the women’s WORLD record for free and scuba diving (at altitude)! Nathalie has spent decades studying the cosmos and searching for life in unexpected places—whether hidden in rocks h…

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243: Through These Doors - Abigail Harrison 45:05

8M ago45:05

45:05

Ever wonder how a passion for space exploration can ignite a global movement? In this episode of Through These Doors, Chris Key, Josh Whitfield, and Beth Mund sit down with Abigail Harrison, better known as Astronaut Abby, the inspiring force behind The Mars Generation. Abby’s journey is one of vision and connection. From her first awe-inspiring vi…

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242: Through These Doors - Kelley Wolfe 30:17

8M ago30:17

30:17

Ever wondered what it takes to inspire the next generation of space enthusiasts? In this podcast episode of Through These Doors, Beth Mund and Chris Key sit down with Kelley Wolfe, an elementary science specialist at Randolph School in Huntsville, Alabama. Kelley has a deep passion for space and education, making her an ideal guest to share her uni…

1
Ariane Cornell: The Interdisciplinary Path to Space 34:19

8M ago34:19

34:19

This week's guest is Ariane Cornell, the Vice President of In-Space Systems at Blue Origin. In this episode, Ariane and Shawn discuss Ariane's highlights at Blue Origin, her childhood dreams of space, and how the family unit is crucial to success every step of the way. --- Where to find Ariane: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arianecornell/ https://www…

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241: Through These Doors - Danny Jaques 47:00

8M ago47:00

47:00

Ever wonder what it takes to inspire over 500 students to reach for the stars? In this episode of Through These Doors, Chris Key, Josh Whitfield, and Beth Mund sit down with Danny Jaques, a Space Camp Hall of Fame inductee and passionate educator dedicated to inspiring the next generation of space enthusiasts. Danny’s journey is one of relentless d…

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240: Through These Doors - Jennifer Heldmann 30:59

8M ago30:59

30:59

What drives someone to pursue a lifelong career exploring the cosmos? In this episode of Through These Doors, Chris Key, Josh Whitfield, and Beth Mund sit down with Dr. Jennifer Heldmann, a NASA planetary scientist whose passion for space began at Space Camp and led to a groundbreaking career at NASA. Jennifer’s journey is nothing short of inspirin…

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239: Through These Doors - Diallo Wallace 45:33

9M ago45:33

45:33

Ever wonder what sparks a lifelong passion for space in someone? In this episode of the Casual Space Podcast, Beth Mund teams up with Chris Key and Josh Whitfield for an uplifting chat with Diallo Wallace—a naval aviator turned high school teacher who’s all about inspiring the next generation of space lovers. Diallo’s story starts with a bang—liter…

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238: Through These Doors - Melanie Sinohni 37:41

9M ago37:41

37:41

Ever wonder what it’s like to push past your limits in an environment designed to challenge and inspire you? In this episode of Casual Space, Beth Mund, along with co-hosts Chris and Joshua, shares another powerful story from the "Through These Doors" series. This time, we hear from Melanie, a former camper who attended Space Camp for Interested Vi…

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237: Through These Doors - Dan Oates 48:30

9M ago48:30

48:30

What if you could help a student experience the wonder of space, despite the odds? In this heartwarming episode of Casual Space, we sit down with Dan Oates, a true legend within the Space Camp community, who has dedicated his life to doing just that. From his impactful work with students with disabilities to his induction into the Space Camp Hall o…

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236: Through These Doors - Ruth Marie Oliver 1:11:08

9M ago1:11:08

1:11:08

What happens when a childhood dream turns into a lifelong passion? In this heartwarming episode, Beth Mund sits down with Space Camp alumni Charity, Ruth Marie, Josh and Chris to reflect on the incredible journey from camp memories to real-world achievements. Discover how Space Camp planted the seeds for big dreams, teamwork, and a “never give up” …

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Jessica Rousset: Using a Biomedical Background to Shape an Intergalactic Future 37:39

9M ago37:39

37:39

This week's guest is Jessica Rousset, the Director of Arizona State University's Interplanetary Initiative! In this episode, Shawn and Jessica discuss how having a non-space background can provide unique perspective when looking to our space future, and how full-picture diversity is just the start to effective collaboration. --- Where to find Jessi…

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235: Through These Doors - Ed Van Cise 54:09

9M ago54:09

54:09

Have you ever wondered what it takes to guide astronauts through the challenges of space exploration, ensuring their safety and mission success? In this exciting episode, host Beth Mund, along with co-hosts Chris Key and Josh Whitfield, kicks off a brand-new series titled "Through These Doors," where they explore the incredible journeys of Space Ca…

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234: Through These Doors - Andrea Hanson 36:42

9M ago36:42

36:42

Have you ever wondered how a college freshman ends up in the Space Camp Hall of Fame? In this limited-release series, join your hosts Beth Mund, Chris Key, and Joshua Whitfield as they welcome special guest Andrea Hanson. Andrea shares her incredible journey from being introduced to Space Camp in college to becoming a Space Camp Hall of Famer. She …

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Shawn Linam Podcasts

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