Charles Frank Bolden Jr. formerly served as the 12th Administrator of NASA from 2009 to 2017. He was the first African American to head the agency permanently. In addition to being a retired U.S. Marine Corps Major General, Charlie is a former astronaut who has flown on four Space Shuttle missions. He is the Founder and CEO Emeritus of the Charles F. Bolden Group, a consortium of accomplished leaders founded in 2017 to foster international collaboration in making life better for all humanity.

Charlie joins us today to describe what it was like growing up in the segregated South. He shares his experience as one of the first African Americans to attend the Naval Academy. You’ll learn how he became a pilot in the Marine Corps despite hating flying in his youth. He also shares his observations on the leadership culture of NASA and underscores the characteristics astronauts have in common.

This week on Kathy Sullivan Explores:

● What it was like growing up in segregated South Carolina in the ‘60s

● Charlie’s experiences with the Naval Academy

● Why Charlie used to avoid flying airplanes

● What eventually led Charlie to the Marine Corps during his plebe year at the Naval Academy

● Finding his way to flight school and aviation

● Charlie’s perceptions of NASA’s culture and leadership when he arrived at the Astronaut Corps

● Bringing Apollo-era astronauts to the 20th century and making NASA a welcoming place for women and people of color

Our Favorite Quotes:

Connect with Charlie Bolden:

• Inter Astra

• Inter Astra on LinkedIn

• The Charles F. Bolden Group

• The Charles F. Bolden Group on LinkedIn

• The Charles F. Bolden Group on YouTube

• Charlie Bolden on LinkedIn

Credits:

Executive Producer: Toby Goodman

Audio & Sound Design: Lee Turner

Production by CxS Partners LTD

I’m Kathy Sullivan,...

Bill Nye “the Science Guy” is an American science educator, engineer, comedian, television presenter, author, and inventor with a mission to help foster a scientifically literate society and to help people everywhere understand and appreciate the science that makes our world work. Making science entertaining and accessible is something Bill has been passionate about his entire life. Bill is a seven time Emmy Award winner and was involved in placing the first sundial on Mars.

Today, Bill joins me to share his story. We talk about the young Bill Nye and the people and events that acted as his greatest influences. He talks about his experience doing stand-up and his life during the war in Vietnam. He discusses the different categories of science and the importance of its advancement. He discusses the role of Congress in this advancement and offers his solutions for political problems. He discusses the exploration of Europa and fields a series of rapid-fire questions.

“BY THE TIME SOMEBODY’S EIGHT YEARS OLD, HIS OR HER ABILITY TO REASON IS PRETTY GOOD. IT’S THE LIFE EXPERIENCE THAT YOU’RE MISSING.”

-

“BRAVERY IS WHEN YOU’VE ACTUALLY ASSESSED THE DANGER.”

- BILL NYE

This week on Kathy Sullivan Explores:

• Bill Nye and the sundial on Mars
• Bill’s experience as an engineer
• The role of dancing in Bill’s life
• Political discussion
• The importance of the advancement of science

Mentioned Resources:

• The Planetary Society
• The Science Rules Podcast

Credits:

Inter Astra

Executive Producer: Toby Goodman

Audio & Sound Design: Lee Turner

Artwork: Ryan Field

Production by CxS Partners LTD

First published - June 10th, 2021

My guest on this episode is Zolana Joao, a distinguished engineer and dynamic leader from the Angola National Space Program Management Office.

In this episode, we explore Zolana’s profound journey from his challenging early years in war-torn Angola to his instrumental role in advancing Angola’s aspirations in space exploration.

With his deep commitment to education and his strategic vision, Zolana has been a driving force in launching Angola’s first satellites, significantly impacting his country’s development and representation in the global space community.

This episode was recorded at the Inter Astra Retreat just outside Washington DC last November (2023).

In this episode, you’ll discover:

• From Civil War to Space Pioneer: Zolana’s journey through adversity to space leadership.

• Strategic Mind in Angola’s Space Ascent: His pivotal role in launching Angola’s satellites.

• Lessons from Global Space Partnerships: How international collaborations shaped his strategy.

• Advocating for Future Innovators: Zolana’s efforts to inspire the next generation in Angola.

• Leadership Philosophy: Insights into overcoming obstacles in space sector leadership.

Quote:

"I didn’t know that I was building muscle. Then after 9 months, I start applying for jobs in electrical engineering jobs. And I found, Motorola company. That time, Motorola was already in Angola, and they were hiring technicians. But I was scared because I was 17. I was not allowed officially to work yet. But I said, I have to gotta do something."

- Zolana Joao

Episode Links:

• Follow Inter Astra on LinkedIn
• Discover more about Inter Astra
• Connect with Zolana on LinkedIn

Credits:

Production by CxS Partners LTD

Executive Producer: Toby Goodman

Audio & Sound Design: Lee Turner

Artwork: Ryan Field

Recorded on location on Nomono Sound Capsule

Explore more episodes at Kathy Sullivan Explores... https://kathysullivaneexplores.com/

Find even more podcasts on the Inter Astra Podcast Network HERE

I’m Kathy Sullivan, the only person to have walked in space and gone to the deepest point in the ocean.

I’m an explorer, and that doesn’t always have to involve going to some remote or exotic place. It simply requires a commitment to put curiosity into action.

In this podcast, you can explore, reflecting on lessons learned from life so far and from my brilliant and ever-inquisitive guests. We explore together in this very moment from right where you are… spaceship not required.

Welcome to Kathy Sullivan Explores.

This episode was recorded at the Inter Astra Retreat just outside Washington DC last November (2023). I sat down with Stella Marcy, a high school freshman from upstate New York with big dreams of becoming an astrobiologist.

Stella’s passion for exploring the origins of life on other planets and her curiosity about the universe is truly inspiring. In our conversation, we discussed what it means to be an astrobiologist, the tools scientists use to search for life beyond Earth, and how high school student Stella can prepare for her career.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

• What astrobiologists do.

• The importance of STEM education in pursuing a career in space science.

• How young students can get involved in STEM programs and research opportunities.

• Stella’s inspirations and her goals for the future, including her dream universities.

• Insights from the Inter Astra Retreat.

Quote:

"INTER ASTRA IS A GREAT WAY TO MAKE CONNECTIONS, TO GET INTERNSHIPS OR RESEARCH PROJECTS OR MENTORS WHO ALSO WOULD REALLY HELP ME."

- STELLA MARCY

Episode Links:

• Follow Inter Astra on LinkedIn
• Discover more about Inter Astra

Credits:

Production by CxS Partners LTD

Executive Producer: Toby Goodman

Audio & Sound Design: Lee Turner

Artwork: Ryan Field

Recorded on location on Nomono Sound Capsule

Explore more episodes at Kathy Sullivan Explores... https://kathysullivaneexplores.com/

Find even more podcasts on the Inter Astra Podcast Network HERE

SPACESHIP NOT REQUIRED

I’m Kathy Sullivan, the only person to have walked in space and gone to the deepest point in the ocean.

I’m an explorer, and that doesn’t always have to involve going to some remote or exotic place. It simply requires a commitment to put curiosity into action.

In this podcast, you can explore, reflecting on lessons learned from life so far and from my brilliant and ever-inquisitive guests. We explore together in this very moment from right where you are… spaceship not required.

Welcome to Kathy Sullivan Explores.

A brand-new inspirational space podcast featuring Astronauts from different generations comparing notes on everything from their moment of selection, training, mission, and legacy.

1. Dr. Kathy Sullivan, a three-time NASA astronaut and the first American woman to walk in space speaks with Christina Koch, a serving NASA astronaut set to be the first woman to reach the moon.

2. General Charles F. Bolden, a four-time NASA astronaut, and the first black NASA administrator, speaks with Victor Glover, a serving NASA astronaut set to be the first black man to reach the moon.

🔎 Discover more podcasts on the Inter Astra Podcast Network at InterAstra.space

Credits:

🚀 For The Charles F. Blend Group & Inter Astra

🎙️ Production by CxS Partners LTD

🎙️ Executive Producer: Toby Goodman & Leo Hornak

🔈 Audio & Sound Design: Lee Turner

🎨 Artwork: Ryan Field

This episode was recorded at the Inter Astra Retreat just outside Washington DC last November (2023) where I had the pleasure of sitting down with Lisa Marrocchino, the CEO of Proteus Ocean Group.

Starting in the world of Wall Street, Lisa has a profound passion for advancing our understanding of the ocean through innovative technologies.

Proteus, is being designed as the 'International Space Station of the Ocean,' aiming to revolutionize our approach to sustained underwater research.

In this episode, Lisa shares the inspiring origins of Proteus, conceived by co-founder Fabien Cousteau, Grandson of Jacques Cousteau, and the ambitious goals they have for this pioneering project. Lisa details the technological and scientific advancements they hope to achieve and the broader implications for environmental research and space exploration analogs.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• Challenges and triumphs in creating a state-of-the-art research facility beneath the sea.
• The role of Proteus in simulating space mission conditions and its implications for future space travel.
• Collaborative initiatives with global scientific communities aimed at fostering significant advancements in ocean research.
• Lisa’s aspirations for Proteus to leave a lasting impact by bridging the gap between oceanic exploration and space discovery.

Quote:

"Proteus isn't just about pushing the boundaries of ocean research; it's about creating a legacy that ties the mysteries of the ocean with the vastness of space."

- Lisa Marrocchino

Episode Links:

• Learn more about Proteus Ocean Group
• Connect with Lisa Marrocchino on LinkedIn
• Follow Inter Astra on LinkedIn
• Discover more about Inter Astra

Credits:

Production by CxS Partners LTD

Executive Producer: Toby Goodman

Audio & Sound Design: Lee Turner

Artwork: Ryan Field

Main interview recorded on location with Nomono Sound Capsule

Explore more episodes at Kathy Sullivan Explores... https://kathysullivaneexplores.com/

Find even more podcasts on the Inter Astra Podcast Network HERE

Your Business: In Space

Environmental Intelligence in Space with Dr. Kathy Sullivan

Dr. Kathy Sullivan is a distinguished scientist, astronaut, and explorer who has contributed to our understanding of space and the Earth’s oceans. As the first American woman to walk in space and a veteran of three NASA space shuttle missions, Dr. Sullivan has reached both the heights of outer space and the depths of our oceans.

As an accomplished geologist, she has explored the complexities of marine geology and geophysics, and her tenure as the head of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) solidified her reputation as a trailblazer in environmental intelligence.

Her profound experience offers invaluable insights into our planet's life support systems — the oceans, the atmosphere, and the interconnected environments that sustain us.

In this episode, Dr. Sullivan draws parallels between the life support systems of spacecraft and our own planet, illustrating the critical importance of environmental stewardship. With her unique vantage points from space and deep below the sea, she sheds light on the environmental challenges we face and the innovative technologies helping us to understand the roles we can play to help protect our home planet.

In this episode you'll discover:

• The vital role environmental intelligence from space plays in daily life, from weather forecasting to agricultural planning.

• How satellites have transformed from mere storm spotters to advanced observers, capable of intricate environmental assessments.

• The importance of understanding and maintaining the life support systems of our 'spaceship' Earth, paralleling those in spacecraft.

• Dr. Sullivan’s perspective on the potential environmental impact of rocket launches and the increasing frequency of space travel.

• The need for continuous innovation and research to advance our knowledge of Earth and space environments.

• Insights into fostering a new generation of scientists, engineers, and explorers to lead future environmental intelligence efforts.

Quote:

"The only thing we actually do all by ourselves is have the start of a good idea. Everything beyond that requires connecting that idea with other people."

- Dr. Kathy Sullivan

Episode Links:

Check out Kathy’s website

Listen to over 100 episodes of Kathy’s Podcast ‘Kathy Sullivan Explores…’ Now part of the Inter Astra Podcast Network!

Follow Kathy on LinkedIn

NASA

NOAA

Credits:

Production by CxS Partners LTD

Executive Producer: Toby Goodman

Audio & Sound Design: Lee Turner

Artwork: Ryan Field

Join the #1 community for equitable access to the business of space:

https://interastra.space/

Dear Explorer,

On June 10, 2021, I launched the Kathy Sullivan Explores podcast. Many of us were under some form of a lockdown back then, and the podcast has helped me connect in ways that were previously impossible to imagine. Through our journey together, we’ve explored science, art, space, and memorable moments in my life all while speaking to brilliant guests. It has truly been an incredible privilege to share stories, insights, and inspiring conversations with you all.

In this episode, I want to express my deepest gratitude to you all for joining me on this remarkable journey of exploration via podcast. I also outline the different episode categories you can continue exploring on the podcast website and explain how you can stay connected and be the first to get updates on my future projects and endeavors.

“This farewell doesn’t have to be the end of our journey together. Continue on, Explorer, learning and sharing in the spirit of curiosity, adventure, and discovery.” - Kathy Sullivan

This week on Kathy Sullivan Explores:

● Charlie Bolden’s pathway to space and other remarkable episodes in the “Space” category

● Conversations with creatives and how they forged artistic careers

● Exploring the sea and other oceanic gems from Helen Scales, Tim McDonald, Victor Viscovo, and others

● Career and leadership insights from Glen Maroney and Yvette McGee Brown

● Conversations on exploring the world with Elizabeth McCormick, Jeffrey Kingsley, and Alastair Humphreys

● Memorable moments from my life—from wearing a baked potato to presenting an Oscar to George Lucas from space

Our Favorite Quotes:

● “From business leaders, writers, artists, fellow explorers, scientists, divers, and astronauts, their wisdom and experiences have left an indelible mark on our collective exploration.” - Kathy Sullivan

● “Astronauts stand on the shoulders of many hundreds of other space professionals.” - Kathy Sullivan

Explore the podcast by theme:

● Space

● Creativity

● Sea

● Memorable Moments

● Career and Leadership

● Places

Spaceship Not Required

I’m Kathy Sullivan, the only person to have walked in space and gone to the deepest point in the ocean.

I’m an explorer, and that doesn’t always have to involve going to some remote or exotic place. It simply requires a commitment to put curiosity into action.

In this podcast, you can explore, reflecting on...