From Spy Planes to Powering the Moon: A Life Lived at Full Throttle with NASA's Lindsay Kaldon

"I try to squeeze every last drop out of life that I can. If I could have two or three shots at it, I would. There's just so much to explore."Ever feel like you're too old to start over? Think again.Some people tiptoe through life—Lindsay Kaldon is not one of them. A NASA project manager, nuclear engineer, Air Force officer, pilot, and mother of four, she radiates energy and curiosity, always looking for the next frontier to push, the next challenge to tackle. From working on nuclear reactors that could power lunar and Martian bases to encouraging people of all ages to pursue their dreams, Lindsay embodies a life lived to the fullest.Lindsay got her pilot's license at 41. She earned her master's degree in nuclear engineering while raising four children, studying until 2 or 3 AM every night after putting them to bed. She's still applying to be an astronaut despite rejections, because as she puts it: "Until somebody tells me I'm literally too old, I'm going to keep trying." Her journey took her from growing up as a military brat to working on U-2 spy planes in the Air Force, to Navy warships defending against electromagnetic pulse attacks, and finally to NASA's Glenn Research Center where she now manages the Fission Surface Power project—developing the nuclear reactors that will power humanity's return to the Moon.In this episode, we talk about big dreams, bold risks, and the mindset that turns the impossible into reality. Lindsay shares her philosophy of "dauntless resolution and unconquerable faith"—a quote from the Wright Brothers memorial at Kitty Hawk that has become her life mantra. We explore how she makes decisions using her "no regrets" framework, why she believes it's never too late to pursue a new career or learn a new skill, and her "zigzag approach" to overcoming obstacles (if one door closes, find another way in).We also dive into the incredible work she's doing at NASA on the Artemis missions, why nuclear power is essential for establishing a permanent human presence on the Moon, and what a thriving lunar economy might look like. Lindsay explains how small nuclear reactors could enable everything from mining lunar resources to 3D printing supplies on the Moon's surface, and why this technology represents a game-changing advancement not just for space exploration but for energy independence here on Earth.Whether you're considering a career change at 40, feeling like you've missed your chance, struggling with work-life balance, or just need a reminder that reinvention is possible at any age, Lindsay's story will inspire you. This is a conversation about living without regrets, staying curious, and proving that age is not a limit—it's just a number. If you've ever thought "I'm too old for that," this episode is for you.Guest Bio:Lindsay Kaldon is the Fission Surface Power Project Manager at NASA’s Glenn Research Center, leading efforts to develop nuclear reactors that will power future space missions. With over a decade of experience in military defense, nuclear engineering, and aerospace, her career spans roles in the U.S. Air Force, the Department of Defense, and now NASA. She holds degrees in electrical engineering, systems engineering, and nuclear engineering, and is also a Captain in the Air Force Reserves.Beyond her work, Lindsay is a passionate advocate for STEM education, a private pilot, and a mother of four. Her infectious enthusiasm for life and learning makes her a true force of nature—one who believes that no dream is too big and no path is ever closed.📖 Learn more about Lindsay’s work:🔗NASA Glenn Research CenterThe Bountifull Podcast explores what it means to live a bountiful life through stories of wellbeing, resilience, connection and creativity. Bountifull emerged out of a simple yet profound desire to see more joy in the world.www.bountifullworld.com/subscribe/⁠