Your Business In Space

Hosted by Inter Astra

Business ScienceInterviews guests

Website RSS feed

Episodes

Latest episode

Apr 2026

Language

About the show

With the business of space projected to be worth one trillion USD by 2030, there is no question that you could be a part of it. 'Your Business : In Space' is your invitation to join the leading minds shaping the space industry. Meet astronauts, engineers, artists, and space lawyers who are charting the course for what's now and what's next in space. Whether you're a student with your eyes on the stars, an entrepreneur ready to launch, a dedicated member of the workforce, a pioneering business leader, or a government figure steering policy—space has a place for you. Listen in and explore space through the arts and sciences, in diplomacy, the environment, business, communication, and humanity. 'Your Business: In Space' is produced by https://www.cxspartners.com/ for the not-for-profit Inter Astra Institute and The Charles F. Bolden Group, which stand for equitable access and opportunity in space. Wherever you are in the world, you have a role in the space economy. That's why we're building the global public square for the business of space. Join us at https://interastra.space/

Listen to episodes

52 recent

April 3, 202644 min

Charles F. Bolden and Victor Glover - Astranotes

Charlie Bolden and Victor Glover come together for a rare, cross-generational conversation that explores legacy, representation, and the human side of space exploration. From growing up in segregated America to preparing for a historic mission around the Moon, their stories reveal what it truly takes to step into the unknown.Bolden reflects on his journey from a childhood shaped by limited representation to becoming one of NASA’s first Black astronauts and later Administrator. Glover, set to become the first Black astronaut to orbit the Moon on Artemis II, shares how curiosity, resilience, and unexpected moments shaped his path into spaceflight. Together, they highlight the importance of mentorship, visibility, and perseverance in building the future of space exploration. This conversation explores identity, adversity, leadership, and the responsibility of representing humanity when leaving Earth.In this episode you’ll discover:• How Charlie Bolden overcame systemic barriers to become a trailblazer in human spaceflight.• Why Victor Glover sees resilience, teamwork, and lifelong learning as essential traits for future astronauts.• The role of representation in shaping ambition and why seeing someone like you in space can change everything.• Behind-the-scenes stories of being selected as an astronaut and what those life-changing moments really felt like.• How the NASA Space Shuttle programme expanded access to space beyond test pilots.• The mindset required to navigate adversity, from discrimination to high-stakes decision making in elite environments.• Why astronauts ultimately represent all of humanity, not just their country, when they leave Earth.Quote:“You don’t have to be number one. But you do have to know you’ve done the absolute best you can do.” — Charlie Bolden00:00 Charlie Bolden's early life06:08 Early inspirations and Naval Academy dreams09:10 Encouragement to apply to NASA11:33 Childhood adventures and exploration15:49 How Shuttle opened space travel17:05 Encouraging diversity in astronaut office21:51 Getting the astronaut call28:30 Struggling through Naval Academy life31:42 Growing up 36:22 Visiting and speaking with troops40:22 Importance of resilience and growth41:26 Life lessons beyond the classroomExecutive Producer Toby Goodman Edited by Leo Hornak with Sound design by Lee Turner for Inter Astra, The Bolden Group and Kathy Sullivan

April 2, 202654 min

Kathy Sullivan In Conversation with Christina Koch - Astranotes

Recorded in 2023 the 3x Shuttle Astronaut, First American woman to walk in space and Fmr. NOAA Administrator Dr Kathy Sullivan spoke with NASA Astronaut Christina Koch soon to be the first woman to orbit the Moon on Artemis 2, for a one-of-a-kind conversation spanning generations. Together, they explored the evolution of space exploration: contrasting their moments of selection, training, early inspirations, and the ongoing journey toward greater diversity in the astronaut corps.From reflections on those historic "one small step" days to the excitement and uncertainties surrounding humanity’s return to deep space. With personal stories and practical wisdom you'll hear about what has changed, and what hasn’t, for women and underrepresented voices in space. Sullivan and Koch discuss the skills and mindsets future explorers will need, and unpack how Artemis astronauts are laying the foundation for a new era of human spaceflight.Whether you dream of spacewalks, or are simply fascinated by the people making the cosmos a little more accessible, this episode sets the stage for an inspiring season ahead. Episode produced by Toby Goodman for Inter Astra, The Charles F Bolden Group and Dr Kathy Sullivan.00:00 Processing life-changing news05:36 Training cycles and international missions09:06 Pursuing passions over checklists12:34 Passion for exploring Antarctica13:15 Starting the astronaut interview process18:53 Pursuing challenges and supporting others21:20 Preparing for Artemis missions23:37 Joining a seasoned mission team28:12 Family involvement in space missions30:20 Team meetings and collaboration33:28 Testing Artemis mission docking systems38:22 The rise of commercial spaceflight40:09 Commercial lunar missions and NASA's role45:03 Expanding global astronaut representation48:41 The importance of the Artemis Accords51:33 NASA's new spacewalking suit53:24 Christina Koch and Artemis 2

January 7, 202527 min

Encore: Pathways to Space with Charlie Bolden - Kathy Sullivan Explores

Charles Frank Bolden Jr. is a retired US Marine Corps Major General and former NASA astronaut. After flying on four space shuttle missions—STS-61-C, STS-31, STS-45, and STS-60—Charlie was appointed by former President, Barack Obama, to serve as the 12th Administrator of NASA from 2009 to 2017, making him the first African American to head the agency permanently. Today, Charlie 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 me today to discuss the qualities aspiring astronauts need to cultivate to be chosen for modern space programs. You’ll hear about his career at NASA and the characteristics he thinks made him a NASA astronaut. He explores how the dawn of the new space age may change selection preferences for would-be astronauts. You’ll also learn the value of being a team player and why being a jack-of-all-trades is essential to becoming an astronaut of today and tomorrow. “You will be technicians, scientists, and researchers all in one—and that’s the kind of people we’re going to be looking for.” - Charlie Bolden This week on Kathy Sullivan Explores: ●      Qualities and characteristics NASA looked for in astronaut candidates in the 1980s●      Civil rights in the 1980s and the psychological implications of growing up in the segregated South●      Why being a team player is a high-value trait for NASA astronauts●      Diversity as a trait of a high-performing organization●      Why being a good fighter pilot doesn’t necessarily mean being a great astronaut●      The lack of diversity in NASA’s Apollo era and how astronaut selection preferences have changed since●      How the dawn of commercial spaceflight is changing preferences for would-be astronauts●      How commercial spacecraft may change the employment prospects of future astronauts●      The kind of crew NASA may seek for the Artemis program and beyond●      Jessica Watkins, Kate Rubins, Peggy Whitson, and why researchers may be the astronauts of the future●      Ridley Scott’s The Martian and what it takes to be a modern-day astronaut Resources Mentioned:●      Book: Riding Rockets: The Outrageous Tales of a Space Shuttle Astronaut by Mike Mullane Our Favorite Quotes:●      “A great test pilot isn’t necessarily going to be a great astronaut; a great test pilot with a big ego is going to be a lousy astronaut.” - Charlie Bolden●      “The astronauts of today and tomorrow are not going to have the opportunity to train over and over again on something because they’ll find that every day is something new.” - Charlie BoldenConnect 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 LinkedInCredits: Executive Producer: Toby GoodmanAudio & Sound Design: Lee TurnerProduction by CxS Partners LTDSPACESHIP NOT REQUIREDI’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.

December 31, 202456 min

Encore: The Birth of the New Space Age with Charlie Bolden Part 2 - Kathy Sullivan Explores

Charles F. Bolden Jr. 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. Appointed by the former president, Barack Obama, Charlie served as the 12th Administrator of NASA from 2009 to 2017, making him the first African American to hold the position permanently. Charlie is a retired U.S. Marine Corps Major General and former astronaut who has flown on four Space Shuttle missions. Charlie speaks with Kathy about his perspective on NASA’s transition from space shuttle operations to commercial space flight. You’ll gain insight into the real inside workings of Washington, DC, as well as his journey to becoming the 12th Administrator of NASA. Charlie also discusses what the future holds for space commerce and exploration, and the surprising who he'd like to take to space. “OUR PURPOSE IS TO MAKE THE EARTH A BETTER, MORE SUSTAINABLE PLACE. I THINK WE’RE UP TO THE CHALLENGE.”- CHARLIE BOLDENThis week on Kathy Sullivan Explores:• Charlie’s last shuttle flight and the formation of the new space age• NASA’s state of play and Charlie’s road to Washington DC• His first experience with the National Space Council• The time Charlie had to convince the Congressional Black Caucus of the need for a space station• What working with Russian cosmonauts taught Charlie• My experience interacting with Soviet astronauts and cosmonauts• Charlie’s meeting with the former president, Barack Obama, and his nomination to NASA• The birth of the SLS, Orion, and commercial crew and cargo• Why NASA will remain the leader and catalyst for discovery• The advantages of developing a vibrant commercial space sector• The James Webb Space Telescope and what gives Charlie hope for the futureOur Favorite Quotes:       “EVERY CREW BECOMES A FAMILY.” - CHARLIE BOLDEN       “STUDY HARD, WORK HARD, AND NEVER BE AFRAID OF FAILURE. LISTEN RESPECTFULLY TO YOUR PARENTS, BUT FOLLOW YOUR PASSION BECAUSE IT’S YOUR LIFE.” - CHARLIE BOLDENConnect 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 LinkedInCredits: Executive Producer: Toby GoodmanAudio & Sound Design: Lee TurnerProduction by CxS Partners LTDSpaceship Not RequiredI’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.

December 24, 202453 min

Encore: The Life of a Visionary with Charlie Bolden Part 1 - Kathy Sullivan Explores

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. “The one characteristic we all had in common in the Astronaut Corps is that we were all visionaries and dreamers—people who thought about what the world could be”- Charlie BoldenThis 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 colorOur Favorite Quotes: “The leadership skills in the astronaut office then were lacking, considering the challenge they had with making it a place that was openly welcoming to women and people of color. We were tolerated, rather than welcomed with open arms.” - Charlie Bolden“It’s not about the size of the dog in the fight, but the size of the fight in the dog.” - Charlie BoldenConnect 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 LinkedInCredits: Executive Producer: Toby GoodmanAudio & Sound Design: Lee TurnerProduction by CxS Partners LTDSpaceship Not RequiredI’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.

December 17, 20241 hr 3 min

Encore: Who Is the Science Guy? with Bill Nye - Kathy Sullivan Explores

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 NYEThis week on Kathy Sullivan Explores:Bill Nye and the sundial on MarsBill’s experience as an engineerThe role of dancing in Bill’s lifePolitical discussionThe importance of the advancement of scienceMentioned Resources:The Planetary SocietyThe Science Rules PodcastCredits:Inter AstraExecutive Producer: Toby GoodmanAudio & Sound Design: Lee TurnerArtwork: Ryan FieldProduction by CxS Partners LTD First published - June 10th, 2021

December 10, 202419 min

Encore: Risk In Air & Space with Dr. Charles Justiz

Dr. Charles Justiz is a former research pilot at NASA Johnson Space Center and an aerospace engineering and risk management expert. Sharing his remarkable journey from the U.S. Air Force Academy to NASA, you’ll hear about the variety of aircraft he flew, including the Space Shuttle training aircraft, and how he contributed to crucial safety and risk management programs.You’ll hear about his most memorable moments working with Astronauts and team members and lessons learned from past missions. He shares why understanding and managing risks in space exploration is crucial. He also highlights the opportunities that come with these risks and how innovative processes can lead to safer and more efficient space operations.In this episode, you'll discover:• Dr. Justiz’s journey from the U.S. Air Force Academy to becoming a research pilot at NASA.• The critical role of risk management in space exploration and the lessons learned from NASA’s history.• How Dr. Justiz’s work in safety management has influenced current practices in aviation and space industries.• Insights into the development of innovative aerospace technologies and the challenges of designing space vehicles.• The future of space exploration and the opportunities for entrepreneurs and innovators in the space industry.Quote:"We had, 2 massive accidents while I was there, of course, which were devastating to us. But, the whole thing is, you can't make all the mistakes yourself. You have to learn from the mistakes of others." - Dr. Charles Justiz Episode Links:🎧 Dr. Justiz in conversation with Kathy Sullivan: ‘The Man Who Carried Space Shuttles’ on Kathy Sullivan Explores…Connect with Dr Justiz via The Charles F. Bolden GroupNASACharles Justiz on LinkedInCredits:Production by CxS Partners LTD Executive Producer: Toby Goodman Audio & Sound Design: Lee Turner Artwork: Ryan FieldProduction by CxS Partners LTDJoin our journey into the world of education and space: https://interastra.space

December 3, 202411 min

Encore: Creating Access to The Business of-Space with Che Bolden

As the CEO of The Bolden Group and Chairman of the Inter Astra Institute a non-profit creating equitable access and opportunity to the business of space, Ché Bolden builds relationships between young stem workforce, small businesses, corporations, and governments around the globe to create access to the business of space.A retired Marine, Ché has extensive experience at the executive level leading projects and teams at the governmental, national, and international level. He has decades of experience navigating complex problems and providing qualitative results. In this encore episode, Ché Bolden shares his journey from aspiring fighter pilot to becoming a key player in the business of space. As the son of a four-time astronaut and former administrator of NASA, Charles F. Bolden, Ché speaks about growing up in the shadow of the shuttle era. You’ll hear how being immersed in the remarkable NASA community around him, gained a unique perspective on the potential of space as a day-to-day reality for humankind and how he brings diverse voices to the table in the global business of space. On This Episode You’ll Discover: • The influence of Ché's NASA lineage on his career in aerospace and his vision for accessible space commerce. • Defining experiences that pivoted Ché's focus from military service to the commercial space sector. • Ché's take on the burgeoning role of private companies in space and their impact on global business opportunities. • Insights into the Inter Astra Institute's mission under Ché's leadership, promoting diverse industry involvement. • The significance of education and cross-industry collaboration in the new era of space business as envisioned by Ché. • Influences from astronauts like Nyberg and Hurley on Ché's mission to foster a worldwide space community. • The role of storytelling and connection in making the space industry relevant across various demographics.Quote:“Today, I focus on bringing the business of space to places it has not traditionally been seen as relevant. And the best way to go about that is to connect the different people from disparate areas and tell their story in a way that lets people see the possibilities”- Ché BoldenEpisode Links: Follow Inter Astra on LinkedInConnect with Ché Bolden on LinkedIn🎧 Listen to Ché’s interview on Kathy Sullivan Explores…'Creating Diverse and Inclusive Pathways to Space with Ché Bolden'Credits:Production by CxS Partners LTDExecutive Producer: Toby Goodman Audio & Sound Design: Lee TurnerArtwork: Ryan FieldJoin the #1 community creating equitable access to the business of space.https://interastra.space/

November 26, 202419 min

From Pilot Dreams To Space Realities with Maleha Khan

Meet Maleha Khan, an MEng in Spacecraft Engineering, Pilot, and Educator passionate about international collaboration and inspiring the next generation in the space industry.Born in Pakistan and raised in the UK, Maleha’s journey from aspiring pilot to space engineer is a testament to resilience and determination.In this episode, she shares her experiences overcoming challenges, the importance of global cooperation in space exploration, and her mission to empower young women to pursue their dreams.Maleha works at the UK Space Agency, contributing to wider Agency goals in future space missions and collaboration with other organisations such as the European Space Agency and NASA. With a master’s degree in spacecraft engineering from the University of Southampton, she taught rocket propulsion in Saudi Arabia, inspiring top female students in space science. As a licensed pilot, she combines her love for flying with her passion for space.In this episode, you’ll discover:• Maleha’s journey into aerospace engineering and becoming a pilot• The importance of global cooperation in space exploration• Empowering women in STEM and the space industry• How space technology impacts our daily lives• Using space to address Earth’s challengesQuote:“I want young women who look like me to feel like they can do it too.” — Maleha KhanEpisode Links:• Connect with Maleha on LinkedIn• Maleha on Instagram• Learn more about the UK Space Agency• Explore the University of Southampton’s Aeronautics and Astronautics• Check out the Red Arrows• UK National Space CentreCredits:Production by CxS Partners LTD Executive Producer: Toby Goodman Audio & Sound Design: Lee Turner Artwork: Ryan FieldFind your place in the business of space: https://interastra.space

November 19, 202415 min

Women, HR, and the Future of Space with Christy McFerren

Meet Christy McFerren, an experienced Human Resources (HR) and Operations professional with a proven track record in developing and elevating HR and Marketing departments through strong collaboration with all levels of management and key stakeholders. Currently serving as the Human Resources Manager at Virginia Tech Applied Research Corporation (VT-ARC), Christy brings a unique perspective to the space industry by bridging people, innovation, and the future of space exploration. In this episode, she shares her inspiring journey and her passion for empowering the next generation of women leaders.Christy has supported various industries, including Federal Government agencies like the General Services Administration (GSA) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Commercial Real Estate, Wastewater Management, and Fairfax County Public Schools. At VT-ARC, she leads HR initiatives, ensuring people have the resources and tools they need to succeed. Her work intersects with the space realm through VT-ARC’s partnership intermediary agreement with the Air Force Office of Scientific Research (AFOSR), supporting STEM education and technology marketing initiatives.In this episode, you’ll discover:• Christy’s path to HR leadership• Empowering women in space• HR’s evolving role in innovation• Bridging diverse skills for space• Inspiring future generationsQuote:“I want our daughters growing up today to understand that whatever they want to be is within their grasp.” — Christy McFerrenEpisode Links:• Connect with Christy on LinkedIn• Visit VT-ARCCredits:Production by CxS Partners LTD Executive Producer: Toby Goodman Audio & Sound Design: Lee Turner Artwork: Ryan FieldRecorded on location in Virginia, USA with thanks to Nomono’s Sound CapsuleFind your place in the business of space: https://interastra.space