The Astro Ben Podcast

In this episode, Ben sits down with John Conafay, a US Air Force Veteran and the CEO & Co-Founder of Integrate, a company that’s revolutionising space mission management through cutting-edge software solutions. With a wealth of experience from his time at Spire, Astranis, SpaceFlight, and ABL Space Systems, John shares insights into the challenges and opportunities of the new space economy. They delve into the innovations driving the industry forward, including transforming space mission planning from 2D to 3D logistics, and how software can solve critical issues like launch capacity management. They also discuss the broader implications of these advancements for the future of space exploration and the ethical considerations involved. Tune in for a deep dive into the world of space tech and the exciting future it holds. OUTLINE: Here’s approximate timestamps for the episode. 00:00 Intro to episode 01:18 Integrate 06:51 Optimising systems 08:57 2D to 3D - what does it mean? 10:12 Previous pain points at previous companies 13:26 Growth into other sectors 15:45 Spaceforce & Firefly 17:45 “Nice to have” digital tools 20:40 Adoption of software 22:34 Other tech in space industry 22:52 Future of Integrate 25:30 Pain of entrepreneurship 28:00 Advice to aspiring space being a space tech entrepreneur  30:13 What sparked your interest in space? 32:04 Wrap up and socials Connect with John Conafay: Website: https://integrate.space/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/conafay/ X: https://twitter.com/jconafay Stay connected with us! Use #Astroben across various social media platforms to engage with us! Youtube: www.youtube.com/@astrobenpodcast Website: www.astroben.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astrobenpodcast/ X: https://x.com/Gambleonit Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@astrobenpodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/astrobenpodcast/

In this episode, Ben sits down (again) with Eric Berger, Senior Space Editor at Ars Technica and author of the upcoming book 'Reentry: SpaceX, Elon Musk, and the Reusable Rockets that Launched a Second Space Age' They discuss the Polaris Dawn mission, the state of the space industry, NASA's Crew-9 launch delay, and the latest breaking stories in the space industry. Eric shares his thoughts on Elon Musk's current focus and vision at SpaceX, as well as the critical role billionaires are playing in space exploration.  OUTLINE: Here’s approximate timestamps for the episode. 00:00 Intro to Episode 103 00:40 Eric back for more! 01:20 Interviewing NASA administrator 02:08 Starliner date pushed back 03:51 Polaris Dawn 05:22 Why is it significant? 07:20 Billionaires in Space 08:50 NEW BOOK: “Reentry: SpaceX, Elon Musk, and the Reusable Rockets that Launched a Second Space Age” 12:10 The Technical Challenges of SpaceX 2008-2020 15:10 Importance of Gwynne Shotwell 17:00 Significance of Falcon Heavy 19:00 The emotion of launches 21:10 Artemis 24:02 China 24:50 New Glenn 26:06 First mover advantage for reusable rocket companies? 28:15 Stoke Space 28:30 SpaceX 29:32 Vision of SpaceX 31:40 Elon and politics 33:55 Elon’s Musks Plans too ambitious? 36:20 Wrap Up and socials Pre-order Eric’s new book Reentry: SpaceX, Elon Musk, and the Reusable Rockets that Launched a Second Space Age Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Reentry-SpaceX-Reusable-Rockets-Launched/dp/1637745273 Penguin: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/759707/reentry-by-eric-berger/ X: https://twitter.com/SciGuySpace Stay connected with us! Use #Astroben across various social media platforms to engage with us! Youtube: www.youtube.com/@astrobenpodcast Website: www.astroben.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astrobenpodcast/ X: https://x.com/Gambleonit Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@astrobenpodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/astrobenpodcast/

In episode 102, chats to Roman Chiporukha, founder of SpaceVIP and co-founder of the luxury lifestyle management firm Roman & Erica. They dive deep into the burgeoning world of private space exploration, discussing the fascinating journey of introducing the final passenger to Axiom’s Ax-1 mission—a $50 million ticket to the first all-private space mission to the International Space Station. Roman shares his insights on making space exploration more accessible to the private sector, the exciting future of Michelin-starred meals in space, and how celebrities and billionaires are shaping the next frontier. OUTLINE: Here’s approximate timestamps for the episode. 00:14 Introduction to Episode 00:50 Origin story or not! 03:00 Axiom1 and selling a $50m ticket! 05:58 Space VIP https://www.spacevip.com/ 07:24 Experience in luxury lifestyle management 09:05 Michelin-starred meals in Space 13:44 Space Perspective https://spaceperspective.com/ 16:30 The Space Prize Foundation https://www.spaceprize.org/ 21:10 SpaceVIP Products/Experiences in the pipeline 26:30 Risks with these experiences 32:40 Celebs in Space 40:00 Final thought - WHY SPACE 41:50 Wrap Up and socials Connect with Roman Chiporukha Website: https://www.spacevip.com/ X: https://twitter.com/getmaxspace Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/spacevip/ Stay connected with us! Use #Astroben across various social media platforms to engage with us! Youtube: www.youtube.com/@astrobenpodcast Website: www.astroben.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astrobenpodcast/ X: https://x.com/Gambleonit Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@astrobenpodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/astrobenpodcast/

In episode 101, Ben chats to  Kirsten Whittingham, President of Max Space. Kirsten shares insights into her diverse and impressive career in the aerospace industry, from generating significant revenue at Axiom Space to overseeing the development of innovative expandable habitats at Max Space. The conversation delves into the unique technology behind Max Space's scalable habitats, the challenges and milestones ahead, and the future of space habitation. Kirsten also discusses her work with the Cosmic Girls Foundation, aiming to address gender inequality in the space industry and inspire more young girls to pursue STEM careers. OUTLINE: Here’s approximate timestamps for the episode. 00:14 Intro to 00:48 Introduction to Kirsten Whittingham 01:28 What is Max Space? 04:57 Inflatable 06:21 Mission in 2026 09:00 What is a soft goods? 10:22 Psychology of inflatable structures  12:20 How big could they be? 13:50 Experience from Axiom 17:35 Raising money for space startups 20:50 Sustainability 23:08 Private/public partnerships 25:55 Uses of Max Space habitat from research, manufacturing, space debris and sport?! 27:50 Cosmic Girls Foundation https://www.cosmicgirls.org/donate 30:45 CGF Initiatives 32:02 Advice to young people 35:10 Vision for the future of the space industry 37:53 Wrap Up and socials Connect with Max Space: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/getmaxspace Website: https://getmaxspace.com/ X: https://twitter.com/getmaxspace Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/getmaxspace/about/ Stay connected with us! Use #Astroben across various social media platforms to engage with us! Youtube: www.youtube.com/@astrobenpodcast Website: www.astroben.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astrobenpodcast/ X: https://x.com/Gambleonit Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@astrobenpodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/astrobenpodcast/

In this milestone episode, we had the honour of speaking with Nicole Stott, a retired NASA astronaut, artist, and author. Nicole shared her inspiring journey, including her space missions on ISS Expedition 20 and 21, and STS-128 and STS-133. We explored her unique experiences, such as participating in the first live tweet-up from space and painting with watercolour in microgravity. Nicole also discussed her post-NASA work, including her book "Back To Earth" and her co-founding of the Space for Art Foundation. Her story is a testament to the power of persistence and the importance of inspiring the next generation of space enthusiasts. OUTLINE: Here’s approximate timestamps for the episode. 00:14 Intro to Nicole Stott 01:00 Episode 100/how Ben and Nicole met 02:35 Impact of astronauts 05:27 Females in space 10:00 Favourite mission? 13:32 Painting in space 16:50 Role of art and creativity in space 19:40 Polaris Dawn & SpaceX/Public Private Partnerships 24:00 Artemis 27:20 Bringing benefits of space 28:05 “Back to Earth” https://www.npsdiscovery.com/book-back-to-earth 31:44 Seeing Earth from space 35:40 Sharing Experiences 37:10 Blue Origin’s vision for the future 38:48 Cosmic perspective 41:37 Final thought from Nicole - “Stay curious!” 44:54 Wrap up and socials Connect with Nicole Stott: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astro_nicole & https://www.instagram.com/spaceforartfoundation/ Website: https://www.npsdiscovery.com/ X: https://x.com/Astro_Nicole Stay connected with us! Use #Astroben across various social media platforms to engage with us! Youtube: www.youtube.com/@astrobenpodcast Website: www.astroben.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astrobenpodcast/ X: https://x.com/Gambleonit Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@astrobenpodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/astrobenpodcast/  

In episode 99, we had the privilege of hearing the remarkable journey of Dr. Eiman Jahangir, Associate Professor at Vanderbilt University and aspiring astronaut. From being a finalist for NASA's Astronaut Candidate program to winning a ticket to space through a raffle with MoonDAO, Dr. Jahangir's story is a testament to the power of persistence and the limitless possibilities of space exploration. Winning a ticket to space from over 2,200 participants, his journey serves as an inspiring reminder that dreams can indeed take flight. Tune in to hear more about his extraordinary adventures and the exciting future that lies ahead. OUTLINE: Here’s approximate timestamps for the episode. 00:00 Introduction to 00:49 Lucky Numbers! 01:40 MoonDao and how it will get Eiman to Space 06:50 How Eiman entered the raffle 08:40 Navigating Crypto 11:10 Applying for NASA 15:24 Space Tourism - health barriers 18:33 Phycological impact on Space Tourism 22:10 Analogue astronaut experiences 23:44 Blue Origin timeline and launch prep 25:50 Personal aspirations for the experience 29:52 Wrap Up and Socials Connect with Dr Eiman Jahangir: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/DrEJahangir Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drejahangir X: https://twitter.com/DrEJahangir Stay connected with us! Use #Astroben across various social media platforms to engage with us! Youtube: www.youtube.com/@astrobenpodcast Website: www.astroben.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astrobenpodcast/ X: https://twitter.com/Gambleonit Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@astrobenpodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/astrobenpodcast/

In Episode 98, Ben speaks with Andrew Parris, a space industry veteran who worked at NASA for over a decade. Andrew shares captivating stories from his time with the Space Shuttle and International Space Station missions, including his travels to Moscow and the Baikonur Cosmodrome. He also discusses his transition into commercial spaceflight and space communication, highlighting his work with innovative space organizations like The Inspired 24, Uplift Aerospace's Space+, and Axiom Space. Join the conversation to explore Andrew's fascinating journey through space exploration, mentorship, and his ongoing commitment to democratizing space for everyone. OUTLINE: Here’s approximate timestamps for the episode. 00:58 Intro to Andrew 01:30 Andrew’s Space Origin Moment 03:08 Working for NASA 08:48 Inspiration 4 and Inspired 24 11:42 The work of Inspired 24 15:30 World View - Andrews Path to Space? 19:00 Importance of building a crew on Earth 20:01 The Overview Effect 23:45 Maximising Overview Effect through Photo’s/video 26:14 Time Management 30:20 Predictions for Space Tourism Industry 32:30 Breaking News 32:35 Wrap Up and Socials Connect with Andrew Parris: Website: https://theinspired24.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_inspired_24/ X: https://twitter.com/aparrisx Stay connected with us! Use #Astroben across various social media platforms to engage with us! Youtube: www.youtube.com/@astrobenpodcast Website: www.astroben.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astrobenpodcast/ X: https://twitter.com/Gambleonit Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@astrobenpodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/astrobenpodcast/

In Episode 97, join us as we journey into the world of astrobiology and space exploration with Dr. Michaela Musilova. Michaela has been the Commander of over 30 simulated missions to the Moon and Mars, in collaboration with NASA and many international organizations. She is currently Global Faculty at the International Space University, Ambassador for Space ScAvengers and the Head of Research of NEEDRONIX. As an astrobiologist and analog astronaut from Slovakia, Dr. Musilova shares insights into her groundbreaking research and the importance of diversity within teams. Discover her visionary project, Astro Seven Summits, and how she's breaking barriers in space exploration right here on Earth! OUTLINE: Here’s approximate timestamps for the episode. 00:52 Into to Michaela Musilova 01:10 The Eclipse 03:25 Astro Seven Summits Project 06:18 Hi Seas 13:44 How would we ACTUALLY live on Mars? 22:02 Selecting teams 26:42 Lessons learnt 34:35 Science communication 35:10 Michaela’s story 40:30 Where are the Aliens? 43:46 Wrap Up & Socials Connect with Dr. Michaela Musilová: Website: https://michaelamusilova.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astro_michaela Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/astroMichaela/ X: https://twitter.com/astro_Michaela Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-michaela-musilova/ Support Astro Seven Summits: https://chuffed.org/project/astrosevensummits Stay connected with us! Use #Astroben across various social media platforms to engage with us! Youtube: www.youtube.com/@astrobenpodcast Website: www.astroben.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astrobenpodcast/ X: https://twitter.com/Gambleonit Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@astrobenpodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/astrobenpodcast/  

Kalpana Pot is an actor, writer, host, and science communicator. She’s appeared in numerous national commercials and TV shows like Grey’s Anatomy, Hot in Cleveland, and Days of Our Lives to name a few, runs popular space-based social media pages, and is a published author. Her latest book, Spaced Out: A Casual Approach to the Cosmos is a general overview of all things space-related mixed with a sense of humour. Her ultimate goal in Hollywood is to help mitigate the recent rise in anti-science by bridging her two loves of storytelling and science.  OUTLINE: Here’s approximate timestamps for the episode. 00:43 Into to Kalpana Pot 04:00 Things getting sweary and definitly not conspiratorial! 05:28 Debunking conspiracies 10:10 “Truth” on Social Media 11:33 Spaced Out: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Spaced-Out-Casual-Approach-Cosmos/dp/B0CPCKJ4PX?source=ps-sl-shoppingads-lpcontext&ref_=fplfs&psc=1&smid=A3P5ROKL5A1OLE 14:20 Hollywood telling Space Stories on Forgotten Women in STEM 18:00 How accurate is film making in explaining relativity? 20:45 The James Web Space Telescope - Importance of Imagery 23:42 Taxpayer Value 24:24 Big Bang age 27:00 The Screenplay! 31:50 Wrap Up and Socials Connect with Kalpana Pot on Socials Media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kalpanapot/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@toknerdytome?_t=8hTcFAH803W&_r=1 IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm5305151/ Stay connected with us! Use #Astroben across various social media platforms to engage with us! Youtube: www.youtube.com/@astrobenpodcast Website: www.astroben.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astrobenpodcast/ X: https://twitter.com/Gambleonit Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@astrobenpodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/astrobenpodcast/

In this episode, we had the privilege of exploring the profound insights of Frank White regarding the overview effect—a cognitive shift experienced by astronauts when viewing Earth from space. Frank shared with us his journey into the realm of space exploration and his research into this remarkable phenomenon. We delved into the core characteristics of the overview effect, including the sense of awe, interconnectedness, and profound appreciation for our planet that astronauts report experiencing. Frank highlighted the transformative nature of this experience and its potential implications for humanity's future, from space exploration to environmental conservation efforts. Throughout the conversation, we explored the cultural and individual variations in the experience of the overview effect, as well as its intersection with spirituality, and philosophy. We discussed the role of technology, such as virtual reality simulations, in simulating aspects of the overview effect for those of us bound to Earth. Frank also shared captivating anecdotes from his interviews with astronauts, providing fascinating insights into their perspectives and the enduring impact of the overview effect on their lives and actions upon returning to Earth. This episode served as a thought-provoking exploration of the overview effect, leaving us with a deeper appreciation for the fragility and interconnectedness of our planet and a renewed sense of wonder about the vastness of the cosmos. OUTLINE: Here’s approximate timestamps for the episode. 00:00 Introduction to Episode 00:40 What is the overview effect? 03:00 Astronauts Experiences 08:02 Different cultures/backgrounds effecting experience 13:23 The Outerview Effect: Dr Chris Boshuizen 17:26 Using Technology to bring the Overview Effect to the masses 19:55 Psychological Processes behind Overview Effect 24:00 Migration to where? The Future! 27:49 Frank’s Overview Effect 33:23 Can anyone get cosmic perspective? Discussed: The Overview Effect: https://www.amazon.com/Overview-Effect-Exploration-Evolution-Library/dp/162410262X Down To Earth: https://plus.nasa.gov/series/down-to-earth/ The Human Space Program: https://www.humanspaceprogram.org/ 37:48 Wrap Up and Socials Connect with Frank White on Socials Media: Website: https://frankwhiteauthor.com/ Franks Book: https://www.amazon.com/Overview-Effect-Exploration-Evolution-Library/dp/162410262X Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whitelight2 X: https://twitter.com/fwhite66 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fwhite161/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgqnb7Og7vYP9MHE2qAhHjQ Stay connected with us! Use #Astroben across various social media platforms to engage with us! Youtube: www.youtube.com/@astrobenpodcast Website: www.astroben.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astrobenpodcast/ X: https://twitter.com/Gambleonit Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@astrobenpodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/astrobenpodcast/

In this weeks episode, Ben chats to Meredith Garofalo, a regional Murrow award-winning Broadcast Meteorologist and space correspondent, whose journey into meteorology was ignited by her mother's survival of a tornado outbreak. In this episode, they delve into Meredith's dynamic career, from covering rocket launches to advocating for women in STEM. Join us as we explore her insights on the intersection of space and climate change, the weather on Mars and whether humans or AI will ever be able to control the weather! OUTLINE: Here’s approximate timestamps for the episode. 00:00 Intro to Meredith Garofalo 00:31 Is Merediths job like the movie “Twister”? 02:38 Space and Meteorology interest 06:16 Weather on Mars 09:30 AI impact on the weather 12:15 Controlling the weather 14:52 Sci Fi becomes reality 15:04 Climate Change 20:00 Satellite Conference 23:03 Global Collaboration 25:12 Space Weather Careers 28:39 The Open Note Book 31:00 Wrap Up and Socials Connect with Meredith Garofalo: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GarofaloWX/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/garofalowx/ X: https://twitter.com/garofalowx Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meredithgarofalo/ Event Meredith is MC'ing:  https://dallasinnovates.com/nasa-is-inviting-you-to-watch-the-april-8-total-solar-eclipse-at-the-cotton-bowl-in-dallas/  Stay connected with us! Use #Astroben across various social media platforms to engage with us! Youtube: www.youtube.com/@astrobenpodcast Website: www.astroben.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astrobenpodcast/ X: https://twitter.com/Gambleonit LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/astrobenpodcast/ Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@astrobenpodcast  

In this episode, we had the privilege of diving into the world of analog space missions with Emily Apollonio, CEO and founder of Interstellar Performance Labs. Emily shared insights into her dynamic leadership journey, her commitment to optimising safety and performance in critical missions, and her dedication to empowering aspiring astronauts. We explored the innovative programs offered by Interstellar Performance Labs, such as the Stellar Training for Astronaut Readiness (STAR) program, which prepares individuals and crews for future missions through a comprehensive curriculum covering physical and mental performance, team dynamics, and human factors. Emily's passion for space exploration and her unwavering dedication to breaking barriers left us inspired and eager to embrace the future of space exploration. OUTLINE: Here’s approximate timestamps for the episode. 00:44 Intro to Episode 01:14 Interstellar Performance Labs 02:30 Emily’s Origin Story 05:20 What is an Analogue Mission 07:08 Key Challenges of Missions 11:35 Could you live without a smart phone? 12:27 Space Tourism Preparation 18:30 Stellar Training for Astronaut Readiness (STAR) program 22:30 Corporate Analogue Missions 25:24 Picking a team 28:51 Challenges in building a business 32:58 Worlds Largest Analogues Mission 35:35 Should anyone do a mission? 37:22 Wrap Up and Socials Connect with IPLabs: Website: https://www.iplabs.space/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iplabs.space/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100083847033624 Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/interstellar-performance-labs/ Stay connected with us! Use #Astroben across various social media platforms to engage with us! Youtube: www.youtube.com/@astrobenpodcast Website: www.astroben.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astrobenpodcast/ X: https://twitter.com/Gambleonit LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/astrobenpodcast/  

In this episode, we dive into the fascinating journey of Susie Martínez, from nail art to space influencer. As a twin sister and daughter of a mechanic, Susie's path to NASA's doors was filled with unique twists and turns. We explore her transition from being one of the only girls studying mechanical engineering at a large university, to finding her niche in the space industry. Susie shares insights into her experience as a NASA intern, navigating the fashion side of space, and the empowering message of embracing individuality. Join us as we uncover Susie's inspiring story and celebrate the power of being true to oneself. OUTLINE: Here’s approximate timestamps for the episode. 00:00 Intro to Susie Martinez 00:43 Space Industry Career - Origin Story 04:40 What is a Payload Engineer? 10:27 Motivation for Sci Comm & STEM outreach 16:18 The Space Gala 17:50 The Galactic Gal - Why Space? 19:00 Tailoring content 20:20 Wearing red lipstick 23:20 Losing Individuality 26:58 The Artemis Program 31:10 Twin Study 32:20 Final thoughts on getting women into STEM 34:40 Wrap Ups and Socials Connect with Susie Martinez: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adastrasu/ X: https://twitter.com/susealcyone Stay connected with us! Use #Astroben across various social media platforms to engage with us! Youtube: www.youtube.com/@astrobenpodcast Website: www.astroben.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astrobenpodcast/ X: https://twitter.com/Gambleonit LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/astrobenpodcast/  

In this episode, we have the privilege of chatting with Jeffrey Hill, the Executive Chairman of the renowned SATELLITE 2024 Conference. Jeff shared fascinating insights into the intricacies of running one of the world's largest satellite tech events, highlighting his experiences interviewing space luminaries like Jeff Bezos, Richard Branson, and Elon Musk. Find out how Jeffrey is the most cropped-out person in history and what to expect with this years SATELLITE conference in 4 weeks time! OUTLINE: Here’s approximate timestamps for the episode. 00:39 The countdown! (to the show) 02:15 SATELLITE 2024 Conference 04:20 Memorable interview moments - Elon Musk, Richard Branson, Jeff Bezos 13:53 Ben’s question to Richard (not a good question but Ben was excited to ask) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NJym7TP5XCQ 14:30 Importance of “Big Names” to get people interested in Space Conferences 18:12 Managing stakeholders interests 22:58 Didn’t want to mention it but - Covid? 28:22 The Public’s understand of Satellites 34:51 Hopes for SATELLITE 2024 Conference and the future of Satellites 42:10 Rachel Jewett - On Orbit Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/on-orbit/id1463422073 42:54 Wrap Up and Socials Connect with the SATELLITE SHOW! Website: https://www.satshow.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/satellite-conference-exhibition/ X: https://twitter.com/SATELLITEDC Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/SatelliteToday Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SATELLITEDC Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/viasatellitemagazine/ Stay connected with us! Use #Astroben across various social media platforms to engage with us! Youtube: www.youtube.com/@astrobenpodcast Website: www.astroben.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astrobenpodcast/ X: https://twitter.com/Gambleonit LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/astrobenpodcast/  

In this episode, we have the privilege of diving into the world of Maynard Okereke, better known as the Hip Hop M.D., a dynamic science communicator and STEM advocate. Ben and "Hip Hop" explored Maynard's journey from civil engineering to award-winning SciComm, highlighting his passion for blending humour, education, and creativity. They discussed the importance of representation in the STEM fields and the role of storytelling in inspiring future generations. Maynard shared his unique perspective on bridging the gap between science and entertainment, emphasising the need for inclusivity and empowerment in our pursuit of knowledge. As they wrapped up, Maynard left us with a powerful vision for a future where every child in a classroom has access to the wonders of space, igniting curiosity and fostering a deeper connection to the cosmos. OUTLINE: Here’s approximate timestamps for the episode. 01:00 Who is the Hip Hop MD? 02:44 Fascination with the cosmos 05:53 Going to Space/Overview Effect 09:34 Importance of Storytelling 13:42 Challenging stereotypes and ensuring representation in STEM 18:44 Importance of role models 22:50 Impact of Hip Hop Science 26:50 Future of space education/Artemis/vision for future of classroom 34:28 Final thoughts/Upcoming children’s book! 36:40 Wrap Up and socials Connect with Maynard Okereke, Hip Hop M.D: #HipHopScience Website: www.HipHopScienceShow.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/hiphopscienceshow Facebook: www.facebook.com/HipHopScienceShow Stay connected with us! Use #Astroben across various social media platforms to engage with us! Youtube: www.youtube.com/@astrobenpodcast Website: www.astroben.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astrobenpodcast/ X: https://twitter.com/Gambleonit LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/astrobenpodcast/