PODCAST · science
Space Spiels
by Paige Kaufman
Space Spiels is a podcast that brings you down-to-earth, real conversations about life in the aerospace world. Through a wide range of guests, we explore the flexible, ever-evolving nature of careers in the field, while digging into the honest challenges and human stories behind this beautifully complex industry.Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube: @spacespiels Disclaimer: My personal social media communications only reflect my personal views and do not represent the views of my employer or any mentioned organizations.
Episodes
-
Environmental Science, Space, and Not Having It All Figured Out w/ Jaimi Lutes
In this episode of Space Spiels, Paige sits down with Jaimi Lutes to talk about studying Earth and Space science and Environmental Science, researching how bacteria communities could support plant growth in extreme environments, and finding the unexpected connections between space exploration and...
-
What a Career Pivot Actually Looks Like w/ Michael Sola
Michael Sola’s path into aerospace has been anything but linear. In this episode, he shares how an early interest in aviation led him to Pratt & Whitney, graduate school at USC, a hands-on internship at The Aerospace Corporation, and eventually his current propulsion role at Vast. We talk about...
-
Breaking Into Aerospace as an International Student: Mark Zhang
In this episode of Space Spiels, Paige sits down with Mark Zhang, a Systems Test Engineer at Joby Aviation, to talk about his journey into aerospace as an international student. Mark shares how The Martian first sparked his interest in space, how his time at Purdue led him toward commercial...
-
Always Learning: Amy Dill’s Journey to Becoming NASA’s First Female Lunar CAPCOM
It’s the Space Spiels Season 4 premiere!! Paige sits down with NASA’s first female lunar CAPCOM, Amy Dill, to talk about the winding path that led her to the front room of one of NASA’s most historic missions. From discovering MIT through magazines and balancing engineering with hockey to...
-
Failure in Engineering w/ Dylan Johnson
In this episode, Paige sits down with instrumentation and controls engineer Dylan Johnson to talk about his journey in engineering. The conversation dives into his relationship with failure, work-life balance, and the misconceptions many people have about engineers. Dylan shares how embracing...
-
From Army to Artemis w/ Matthew Landon
Matt does not speak for the U.S. Army, government, or NASA. All views are our own. In this episode, Paige sits down with Matthew Landon, a Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Army, to talk about his path in the military and aerospace world. Matt shares how his background in intelligence, education…
more -
My Imposter Syndrome Experience and How I Overcome it
In this episode, Paige opens up about her personal experience with imposter syndrome and 4 tips that help her overcome it. She breaks down what imposter syndrome is, why so many students in STEM struggle with it, and how it manifests in her. Paige shares honest stories from her time at USC,...
-
Art and Space w/ ORBES CEO Anna Shaposhnik
In this episode, Paige sits down with Anna Shaposhnik, founder and CEO of ORBES, to talk about her path into the space industry. Anna shares how her interdisciplinary education at USC’s Iovine and Young Academy allowed her to combine art, design, and engineering while working hands-on at the USC...
-
Year One in Aerospace: Anne Weber
In this episode, Paige sits down with aerospace engineering student Anne Weber to talk about her journey into the space industry and finding confidence in a challenging field. Anne shares how Hidden Figures, an inspiring high school speaker, and a visit to Kennedy Space Center helped her realize…
more -
Confidence and Career Leaps w/ theplanekate
In this episode, Paige has a down to earth conversation with Flight Test Engineer Kate Gunderson! She reflects on her best day at test pilot school and the differences between life as a student, a NASA engineer, and now a full-time flight test engineer. Kate dives into how she decided to leave a...
-
Answering YOUR Aerospace Questions
In this episode, Paige answers YOUR questions about her background, aerospace, and advice. She shares how she got into space, along with her high school journey. Paige breaks down the differences between aerospace, mechanical, and astronautical engineering while discussing the real pros and cons…
more -
The Astrophysicist Variant of Elle Woods: Dr. Clary
In this episode, Paige sits down with astrophysicist Dr. Clary Rizzo to talk about her journey from childhood curiosity to direct imaging of exoplanets. They explore how early research experiences shaped Clary’s path. Clary opens up about embracing femininity in the space industry and navigating...
-
Networking 101 with Flight Controller Jack Tanner
In this episode, Jack Tanner, a fellow flight controller, and I have an unapologetically real conversation about networking in engineering. He shares his “networking origin story,” and breaks down three practical networking steps for beginners. He shares animated stories of awkward moments and...
-
Building Knowledge and Confidence: Emily Hesby
In this episode, Paige sits down with aerospace engineer Emily Hesby. Together, they unpack the challenges and rewards of dedicating years to a student propulsion team, including how to grow one's confidence. Emily also shares stories from her SpaceX internships -- including her first impressions...
-
NASA Pathways Intern Santiago Garza
Disclaimer: All opinions and advice in this episode are personal and do not reflect that of NASA or the United States Government. In this episode of Space Spiels, Paige sits down with NASA Pathways intern Santiago Garza to explore the winding path that brought him into aerospace. Santiago shares...
-
The First Syrian Glider Pilot: Sana Jumah
In this episode, Paige talks with Sana, an Elevate(her) ambassador who discovered her passion for gliding by simply following her curiosity, not overthinking, just doing. She shares the thrill of “switching off” once airborne and the moment she realized she might be the first female Syrian glider...
-
Handling Rejection and Pursuing Passion w/ LCDR Kellie Sbrocci
Paige chats with Naval officer and creator Kellie Sbrocchi about her journey from the U.S. Naval Academy to building a platform that encourages others to “Do Both.” Kellie shares how she learned to balance discipline and creativity, from running track and managing academics to embracing fashion,...
-
It's Been 2 Years: SEASON 2 FINALE
In this short update, I reflect on what Space Spiels has taught me and look forward to the Season 3 premiere in a few months. Thank you all for everything! Space Spiels Instagram
-
Zero-G Flights and Period Rights: You can do it all w/ Manju Bangalore
In this episode, I talk with Manju Bangalore a physicist, creative, and astronaut-in-training. We unpack the difference between applied physics and engineering, the power of clear communication in STEM, and the role community plays when you're chasing ambitious goals. Manju shares what it was…
more -
My College Experience: How to Land Your Dream Job
In the second episode of my college experience solo series, I share how I made it through engineering school without pulling a single all-nighter, while still landing my dream job. From learning to ask for opportunities (even when it’s uncomfortable) to finding community in my cohort, I break…
more -
My College Experience: The Key to Life Balance and Extracurriculars
In this solo episode, I unpack how I balanced astronautical engineering, horseback riding, marching band, and scuba diving throughout college— (kind of) gracefully. I share the messy truth behind “doing it all,” including the trade-offs, mistakes, and why giving 100% to everything isn’t…
more -
What Gliding is really like w/ @GliderQueen
In this episode, Paige speaks with Lilli, the Glider Queen herself! In this candid conversation, she shares her aviation story, gives a glimpse into how gliders are launched, reveals the name of her glider, and much more! Enjoy!! Lilli's Instagram Elevate(her)
-
Coffee, Perseverance, and Human Spaceflight: Breece Phipps
Paige speaks with NASA Propulsion Operations Engineer Breece Phipps. Breece shares his unconventional path, highlighting his love for goal-setting and coffee. This episode is fun and inspiring. Enjoy!! Breece's LinkedIn SpaceFox Coffee!!
-
20 Years of USC Astronautical Engineering ft. 6 Special Guests
In honor of the University of Southern California’s Astronautical Engineering Department’s 20th anniversary, Paige speaks with six different guests from the school: the three founders and three students. This episode explores several stories from ASTE history and what makes the department unique....
-
A Sense of Belonging: Airline Pilot "Raja in the Sky"
Paige talks with Elevate(her) and Cosmic Girls ambassador Raja in the Sky about her journey to becoming an Airline pilot. Raja offers advice and speaks about the importance of inspiring the next generation of pilots, especially females. This is an awesome episode with an awesome guest!! Raya's...
-
Amateur Propulsion w/ Half Cat Rocketry's Austin Sennott
Paige talks with Austin, a rocket propulsion engineer and founder of Half Cat Rocketry. Austin explains his passion for propulsion and tells the story of Half Cat’s silly name. He elaborates on his experience as a Master’s student and as an engineer at various start-ups, highlighting the...
-
Informing, Educating, and Inspiring Women in Aviation w/ Elevate(hers) Katherine Moloney
From starting in the warehouse at Transair Flight Equipment at 18 to becoming its Marketing Director and a dual-license pilot, Katherine Moloney embodies the diverse paths and destinations within the aerospace industry. In this episode, we discuss how a chance helicopter trial lesson at Brighton...
-
Space History Made Simple w/ Star Bound's Author Emily Carney
In this episode of Space Spiels, Paige talks with Emily Carney—writer, podcaster, and author of the new book Star Bound. Emily shares her journey from serving as a nuclear operator in the Navy to earning a degree in education at St. Petersburg College, eventually becoming a leading voice in space...
-
Females in Fluid Dynamics!! w/ Maddie Burkey
In this episode, Paige sits down with Maddie Burkey, a recent Georgia Tech grad and fluid mechanics expert. Maddie speaks about her college experience, Co-Op program, and cutting-edge research. She shares the origin of her fascination with aerodynamics and her experience carving out her…
more -
Living in Space: The Most Fun Problem w/ Kara Gaiser
Today, Paige talks with Kara Gaiser, 3rd year Mechanical Engineering student at UC Berkeley, previous JPL Intern, and VAST Space ECLSS Intern. Kara discusses why she enjoys Environmental Control specifically and what it was like to land a coveted NASA JPL internship after her first year in…
more -
Strategizing Your Way to Your Dream Job w/ Holly Pascal
In this insightful episode, Paige sits down with Holly Pascal—NASA systems engineer, author, and founder of the Women’s Aerospace Network. Holly shares her journey from dreaming big in college to crafting strategies that landed her at NASA. Learn how she pivoted from software to systems...
-
Princeton, Pitch Perfect, and People ft. Ben Kim
On this episode, Paige talks with Ben Kim, a senior undergraduate at Princeton. They discuss getting into Princeton and his internship experiences. They also dive into topics such as “we are all just people,” doing things outside of engineering, and authenticity. With a philosophical ending, this...
-
Becoming a NASA Flight Director: Derek Hassmann
In today’s episode, Paige talks with Derek Hassmann: former NASA Flight Director and Vice President of Mission Operations at VAST Space. Paige dreams of becoming a NASA Flight Director, so she takes this opportunity to ask all her burning questions. Derek discusses how he ended up at NASA and his...
-
Engineering OR Wellness: Can You Have Both?
Today’s episode features Dr. Lorena Duran, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a doctorate in educational leadership. Paige finally asks all of her burning mental health questions: How do you not place your worth in productivity? What are your biggest tips regarding imposter syndrome? How do…
more -
HUGE ANNOUNCEMENT: I will be working at...
I got my dream job. When people ask what got me into space I recall this story: At a young age, I remember looking up at the TV and seeing a room of people crying, high-fiving, and hugging. These employees had just sent a rocket to space. I knew that I wanted to be in that room one day and get...
-
Slightly Chaotic Discussion with Flight Surgeon Dana Levin
Today Paige talks with Dana Levin, a Flight Surgeon at VAST Space. Dana discusses why he became a doctor and how he ended up in aerospace specifically. He talks about career shifts and finishes by answering Paige’s burning question about humans traveling to Mars. This is a great, slightly…
more -
Creating Opportunities w/ Roderic Vanderscoff
On today’s episode, Paige speaks with Roderic Vanderscoff, Launch Vehicle Architecture Engineer at PLD Space in Spain. They discuss creating opportunities for oneself, risk associated with startups, and leaving the country! Towards the end, Roderic speaks about the benefits of not fearing…
more -
BONUS: My Summer Internship, Why Sloths?, Life Balance, and More
To Paige's surprise, Curtis Lee pulled out his phone while being interviewed, turned the table, and asked Paige some great questions. We talk about her favorite things: life balance, imposter syndrome, and her summer internship experience at Vast Space. In this beautifully chaotic interview…
more -
From Being the Youngest Engineer to Becoming a Fantastic Mentor: Curtis Lee
Paige kicks off season 2 by interviewing one of her mentors at Vast Space, Curtis Lee. With over 5 years of experience as a Mechanical Engineer, Curtis is candid about his first full time job and how he ended up in aerospace by circumstance. He describes his first position at an aerospace…
more -
It's Been a Year: SEASON 1 FINALE!!
In today's brief episode, Paige explains how rewarding her podcast hosting experience has been this past year. She describes her plans for the summer and reminds you to leave reviews!!
-
The Path to my Dream Job w/ NASA JPL's Danielle Marsh
This week, Paige speaks with Danielle Marsh, a Spacecraft Systems engineer at NASA’s JPL. They discuss Danielle’s education experience along with how she made big decisions early on in her career. She discusses the similarities between Johns Hopkins APL and NASA’s JPL along with why she loves her...
-
SCUBA Diving in Antarctica at 15 Years Old: John Humphreys' Road to Space
Paige sits down with John Humphreys, a 16 year-old aspiring astronaut. John recently returned from a scientific diving expedition to Antarctica. He debriefs his trip with Paige, sharing the most rewarding and challenging parts of the trip. John also talks about his recent first solo flight in an...
-
Astronomer Dr. Vera Gluscevic: Family, Failure, and Science
An astronomer from Serbia, Dr. Vera Gluscevic, tells her story on today's episode. She elaborates on how to persevere through failure and tells the same stories she uses to keep her own students motivated. Dr Gluscevic speaks about balancing her education while also being a mom, and how her life...
-
Maya Solis: Submarines & Space
On this episode, Paige talks with submariner Maya Solis. The Naval Academy graduate explains what operating a nuclear reactor entails, along with how it relates to space and satellites. Maya discusses the current arms race in space and what her future path entails. Enjoy this episode with my good...
-
Why I Push Myself out of My Comfort Zone: Scuba-Diving and Sky Diving
Today's episode is a life update! Paige shares what she is up to, including scoring an internship and getting into grad school. She also talks about her experience scuba diving and skydiving, and shares why she seeks to push herself out of her comfort zone. Wrapping up with a discussion about…
more -
Empowering Women in Aerospace: Dana Kirchmar
Paige talks with Dana Kirchmar, a coach for women in aerospace. With an electrical engineering background, Dana dives into how she got into aerospace and her experience working on the Space Shuttle. She describes what it has been like working as a woman in aerospace and what she strives for…
more -
Studying Aerospace Abroad w/ Arianna Pascale
BONUS EPISODE ALERT! Every wonder what it's like to study Aerospace Engineering as an Italian? Today is your lucky day! Paige sits down with Arianna Pascale, who has studied in Australia, Italy, and Spain. She is currently a Flight Simulator Engineer at Airbus and Master's student. Hear more…
more -
Psychological Safety in Aerospace w/ Patrick Cates
On this episode, Paige sits down with Patrick Cates--the Associate Dean for Undergraduate Programs and Adjunct Faculty at USC's Marshall School of Business--who describes psychological safety. He gives aerospace related examples in which psychological safety could have improved work environments...
-
Ursa Major's Bill Murray
Today, Paige sits down with the EVP of Products at Ursa Major: Bill Murray. Bill elaborates on his educational and professional experience: What is it like to witness a hotfire of a 50,000 lbf engine? How did he find the courage to help start a company? Does college experience actually translate…
more -
Pursuing Space at the Air Force Academy: Anton Dahm
Paige sits down with Cadet First Class Anton Dahm. Anton is finishing up his fourth year at the Air Force Academy after which he will be commissioning as an officer into the Space Force. Paige and Anton talk about what led to his decision to attend the Academy along with how he was selected to…
more
We're indexing this podcast's transcripts for the first time — this can take a minute or two. We'll show results as soon as they're ready.
No matches for "" in this podcast's transcripts.
No topics indexed yet for this podcast.
Loading reviews...
ABOUT THIS SHOW
Space Spiels is a podcast that brings you down-to-earth, real conversations about life in the aerospace world. Through a wide range of guests, we explore the flexible, ever-evolving nature of careers in the field, while digging into the honest challenges and human stories behind this beautifully complex industry.Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube: @spacespiels Disclaimer: My personal social media communications only reflect my personal views and do not represent the views of my employer or any mentioned organizations.
HOSTED BY
Paige Kaufman
CATEGORIES
Loading similar podcasts...
Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Space Spiels have?
Space Spiels currently has 66 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Space Spiels about?
Space Spiels is a podcast that brings you down-to-earth, real conversations about life in the aerospace world. Through a wide range of guests, we explore the flexible, ever-evolving nature of careers in the field, while digging into the honest challenges and human stories behind this beautifully...
How often does Space Spiels release new episodes?
Space Spiels has 66 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to Space Spiels?
You can listen to Space Spiels on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Space Spiels?
Space Spiels is created and hosted by Paige Kaufman.
URL copied to clipboard!