Casual Space

Author and space historian Jay Gallentine embarks on a thrilling mission to capture the untold story of one of NASA's most influential figures—John Casani. In his latest book, Born to Explore, Jay takes readers on an exhilarating journey through Casani's remarkable career, from his unexpected entry into aerospace to his pivotal role in some of NASA's most legendary planetary missions. Casani wasn't just another project manager—he was a force of nature who refused to accept dead ends, a master of navigating complex challenges, and a mentor who inspired teams to push beyond limits.

Jay shares how his original vision for the book transformed when a scheduled 20-minute conversation with Casani turned into a four-hour deep dive into his personal life, philosophies, and career-defining moments. From the Voyager program to Galileo and Cassini, John's leadership helped shape NASA's approach to planetary exploration, proving that the best missions aren't just about technology—they're about the people who make them happen.

Through engaging storytelling, Jay reveals the personal side of Casani—the man who kept a smile even in the face of budget cuts, mission failures, and relentless obstacles. He also offers insight into Casani's philosophy of 'living in a world with no corners,' a mindset that turned potential mission cancellations into historic successes.

Jay Gallentine is an award-winning space historian and author known for bringing humanity to the stories behind robotic space exploration. With a knack for uncovering the lesser-known narratives of NASA's pioneers, Jay's books offer a fresh and compelling perspective on space history. Born to Explore is set to release in late 2025.

• Follow Jay on Facebook for updates on his books and space history insights.

• Stay tuned for Born to Explore, coming soon to Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and your favorite bookstores.

This episode is a must-listen for space enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone who loves a good behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to explore the cosmos.

Alex Reynolds, Founder and CEO of ATTX, joins Casual Space to share his inspiring journey from a childhood fascination with flight to leading a company dedicated to democratizing access to space. Growing up in Missouri, Alex's creativity and curiosity were nurtured in a DIY workshop his mom set up in the family attic—an experience that ultimately inspired the name of his company. From building airplanes as a kid to shaping the future of space exploration, Alex's story is one of passion, persistence, and problem-solving.

In this episode, Alex reflects on his work at CU Boulder's Dream Chaser program, groundbreaking satellite missions, and the launch of ATTX. His company's mission is to "open space for all through software innovation," providing accessible, ready-to-use tools that enable startups and smaller organizations to compete in the challenging space industry. Alex also shares how ATTX fosters a culture of innovation by balancing mission-focused work with a supportive, people-first approach to leadership.

Alex Reynolds is the Founder and CEO of ATTX, a company revolutionizing the space industry with innovative simulation and software solutions. With a background in aerospace engineering and years of experience on high-profile projects, Alex brings both technical expertise and visionary leadership to the table. At ATTX, Alex and his team focus on creating tools that simplify the complexities of space missions, empowering organizations to turn their ideas into reality.

To learn more about ATTX, visit attx.tech or email Alex directly at [email protected]. Whether you're a budding aerospace engineer, a startup founder, or simply passionate about space, Alex is eager to connect and share his knowledge.

Every episode, Beth selects and shares a job listing within the space industry! You can be one of the first to know about unique opportunities by going to our LinkedIn page and social platforms! LinkedIn - @casualspacepodcast

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YOU CAN HELP US SEND STORIES TO SPACE! Please visit our GoFundMe campaign and help send more stories to space! https://gofund.me/62f1ff87

You can follow and share in the socials,

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And if you enjoyed this episode, let Beth know directly at [email protected]. Are you interested in having Beth in as your featured speaker for your conference, special event? Audiences everywhere agree; her voice is truly unique, and her programs are stellar. Inquiries for Beth's availability in 2025 can be sent to [email protected]

*Remember!!! You can send your story to space TODAY! The window for STORIES of Space Mission 03 is NOW OPEN! Send your story, for free, to www.storiesofspace.com Also, to help support sending stories about space to space. Visit our 2025 GoFundMe Campaign at this link: https://gofund.me/0638ee0e

Herb Baker, NASA veteran and author of From Apollo to Artemis: Stories From My 50 Years With NASA, takes us back to a time where growing up near NASA meant working near the "Manned Spacecraft Center," and running films to the TV station for Apollo missions. Herb took what started as a "fun job" into an unforgettable 42-year career working on the Shuttle, Space Station, and Orion programs. Herb grew up surrounded by astronauts' families, watched history happen right in his backyard, and even got to see his mom play a key role in saving Skylab—a story that will absolutely make you smile.

Herb's adventures working for NASA are pretty incredible—like riding in a helicopter flown by a Vietnam vet to deliver news footage, running around Mission Control like he owned the place, and learning that astronauts' biggest fear isn't danger... it's letting their teammates down. You'll hear just how much NASA's mission and people have meant to him.

Herb's stories bring NASA's history to life in a way that feels personal, real, and so inspiring. If you've ever looked up at the stars and dreamed big, this one's for you.

Guest Bio: Herb Baker retired from NASA in 2017 after 42 years of service. He spent most of his career at the Johnson Space Center (JSC), supporting the Space Shuttle, Space Station, and Orion Programs. Herb also worked at the Kennedy Space Center and NASA Headquarters. His final position was Manager of the Operations Support Office at JSC, where he oversaw support for Mission Control, astronaut operations, and NASA's aircraft operations. Today, Herb serves as an Officer on the Board of Directors for the NASA Alumni League-JSC and dedicates his time to promoting STEM education through organizations like the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation and Space Center Houston. He is a frequent speaker on human spaceflight and the author of From Apollo to Artemis: Stories From My 50 Years With NASA.

Connect with Herb: Want a signed copy of From Apollo to Artemis? Head to herbbaker.space. You can also find it on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Check his website for updates on upcoming book signings and events.

If you enjoyed this episode and would like to share, I'd love to hear it!

YOU CAN HELP US SEND STORIES TO SPACE! Please visit our GoFundMe campaign and help send more stories to space! https://gofund.me/62f1ff87

You can follow and share in the socials,

• LinkedIn - @casualspacepodcast

• Facebook - @casualspacepodcast

• Instagram - @casualspacepodcast

• YouTube - @casualspacepodcast83

or email me at [email protected].

*Remember!!! You can send your story to space TODAY! The window for STORIES of Space Mission 03 is NOW OPEN! Send your story, for free, to www.storiesofspace.com Also, to help support sending stories about space to space. Visit our 2025 GoFundMe Campaign at this link: https://gofund.me/0638ee0e

Hank Alewine is the accountant boldly going where no CPA has gone before! A professor at the University of Alabama in Huntsville, Hank isn't just teaching spreadsheets and balance sheets—he's pioneering space accounting (yes, that's a thing). In this episode, Hank chats about his career journey, from studying biology to becoming a CPA, and eventually inventing a course that tackles the financial frontier of the space economy.

Hank explores fascinating topics like how future Martian colonies might handle taxes (spoiler: someone will definitely try to tax space transactions) and why lag times between Earth and Mars could make audits a real headache. He also explains how accountants are the ultimate storytellers, translating numbers into tales that help businesses—and even space agencies—thrive.

If you've ever wondered how space exploration gets funded—or just want to geek out about Star Trek and space taxes—this episode is for you. Hank's unique perspective will leave you laughing, thinking, and maybe even reconsidering accounting as the coolest job in the universe.

About Hank Alewine

Hank Alewine is a professor with a passion for numbers and NASA. Based in Huntsville, Alabama (aka Rocket City), Hank teaches managerial accounting and is breaking new ground with his space accounting course. He also organizes the Business of Space Conference, where academia and the space industry collide in the best way possible. When he's not teaching or exploring the cosmos through his research, Hank is busy chasing chickens and hanging out with his opinionated donkey Josephine on his family's hobby farm.

Hank and Beth mentioned Hank's appearance on The Space Show with host Dr. David M. Livingston. Here is the link to that episode: https://www.thespaceshow.com/show/01-dec-2023/broadcast-4121-dr.-hank-alewine

Want to learn more about Hank's work or the upcoming Business of Space Conference (February 23 - 25, 2025)? Check out the conference website at: https://www.uah.edu/opce/program-topics/business-of-space

Or check out the University of Alabama in Huntsville at uah.edu/business

Ronak Dave is a Flight Director at NASA's Johnson Space Center who always knew he wanted to work in Human Spaceflight Operations. His journey from a curious engineer to one of NASA's elite is inspiring. With a Bachelor of Science in Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering from Purdue University, his path to NASA was fueled by curiosity, determination, and a little networking ingenuity.

From tinkering with appliances in his childhood home to orchestrating critical missions at NASA, Ronak talks about how each experience brought him to work in the space industry. He shares lessons learned in leadership and teamwork while managing a $150 billion spacecraft and working alongside astronauts. Ronak also offers insight into how NASA's redundancy, preparation, and collaboration principles shape the space program and everyday decision-making.

Beyond the control room, Ronak emphasizes the importance of balance and finding moments to disconnect. Whether stepping away to cook, enjoying Purdue basketball games, or practicing the art of turning off work's ever-present "buzz," he reminds us that mindfulness is essential—even in a high-stakes role.

Ronak Dave joined NASA in 2011 as a Pathways Intern, becoming a cornerstone of the Flight Operations Directorate. His extensive career includes roles in mission control for the International Space Station, propulsion systems support for Boeing's Starliner, and leadership in Artemis I and II missions. Selected as a Flight Director in 2022, Ronak now spearheads critical projects like the SpaceX-30 Dragon cargo mission. His team, Momentum, reflects the physics principles he champions and the urgency required to keep missions and people safe.

To connect with Ronak or learn more about his work, follow him on X (formerly Twitter) at @Momentum_Flight. If you enjoyed this episode and would like to share, I'd love to hear it!

YOU CAN HELP US SEND STORIES TO SPACE! Please visit our GoFundMe campaign and help send more stories to space! https://gofund.me/62f1ff87

You can follow and share in the socials,

• LinkedIn - @casualspacepodcast

• Facebook - @casualspacepodcast

• Instagram - @casualspacepodcast

• YouTube - @casualspacepodcast83

or email me at [email protected].

*Remember!!! You can send your story to space TODAY! The window for STORIES of Space Mission 03 is NOW OPEN! Send your story, for free, to www.storiesofspace.com Also, to help support sending stories about space to space. Visit our 2025 GoFundMe Campaign at this link: https://gofund.me/0638ee0e

Dr. Eiman Jahangir, a physician, analog astronaut, and lifelong space enthusiast, shares his remarkable journey to becoming an astronaut with Blue Origin's New Shepard. With two previous NASA astronaut candidacies and years of dedication, Dr. Jahangir's story is resilient. He is driven by a love for science and space and his unwavering commitment to the dream of exploring beyond Earth.

Catch Dr. Jahangir as he shares stories from his recent Blue Origin flight and launches into his experiences with the analog astronaut community, where he honed skills vital for long space missions. He's got heartwarming tales, like attending family space camp with his son and how volunteering at a science museum as a teen sparked his lifelong passion for inspiring others to reach for the stars. Dr. Jahangir's journey shows that even the biggest dreams are possible when you break them down into small, achievable steps!

About Dr. Eiman Jahangir Dr. Eiman Jahangir's dreams are indeed out of this world. He has been fascinated with medicine and space since childhood and is now a cardiologist and an astronaut.

Eiman was the first Iranian American man to go to space, the first physician on a commercial launch, and only the third cardiologist ever to go to space. He was selected from more than 2,200 applicants to be MoonDAO's second citizen astronaut and, on Thursday, August 29, 2024, made history as a member of the Blue Origin New Shephard rocket launch.

Eiman is an associate professor and practicing cardio-oncology physician at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. A proud Martin Luther King, Jr. Magnet High School graduate in Nashville, he is also the first Metro Nashville Public School alumnus to go to space.

Resources Mentioned

• Moondao – A DAO that funded Dr. Jahangir's seat on the Blue Origin flight through community-driven NFT and Ethereum support.

• Blue Origin – Learn more about Dr. Jahangir's flight aboard the New Shepard.

Connect with Dr. Eiman Jahangir

• eimanjahangir.com

• [email protected]

If you enjoyed this episode and would like to share, I'd love to hear it!

YOU CAN HELP US SEND STORIES TO SPACE! Please visit our GoFundMe campaign, and help send more stories to space! https://gofund.me/62f1ff87

You can follow and share in the socials,

• LinkedIn - @casualspacepodcast

• Facebook - @casualspacepodcast

• Instagram - @casualspacepodcast

• YouTube - @casualspacepodcast83

or email me at [email protected].

*Remember!!! You can send your story to space TODAY! The window for STORIES of Space Mission 03 is NOW OPEN! Send your story, for free, to www.storiesofspace.com Also, to help support sending stories about space to space. Visit our 2025 GoFundMe Campaign at this link: https://gofund.me/0638ee0e

Anna (Hanna Sav) Harutyunyan, is an Armenian engineer and robotics student who recently made history as Armenia's first analog astronaut!

In this episode, she joins host Beth Mund on the Casual Space Podcast to share her experiences in analog space missions, her academic journey, and her upcoming projects. Anna's on a mission to inspire people in Armenia, and around the world, to explore space.

As you listen in, you'll hear how Anna first connected with the analog astronaut community through the Austrian Space Forum, where she supported ground operations before stepping into a mission role. Her journey is one of resilience, from overcoming visa challenges to working in a fully immersive habitat under challenging conditions without sunlight. Anna's analog mission required her to step into tasks involving high-tech rovers, maintaining equipment, and simulating life on another planet.

Beyond her analog experiences, Anna is pursuing a degree in Robotics and Engineering, which fuels her passion for combining robotics, AI, and quantum computing to push the boundaries of space exploration. She recently announced plans to launch Rocket Space Academy, a training ground for future analog astronauts, focusing on creating accessible training opportunities for aspiring space enthusiasts from Armenia and other underrepresented regions.

About Anna (Hanna Sav) Harutyunyan: Anna's journey began in Armenia, where she excelled in engineering and dreamed of participating in space missions. Her dedication led her to become the first Armenian analog astronaut, a trailblazer in combining STEM fields with hands-on analog mission experience. She is currently a robotics student advocating for STEM education and international cooperation in space exploration.

Resources Mentioned:

• Austrian Space Forum – Learn more about analog missions and ground operations.

• Rocket Space Academy (Coming Soon) – An academy dedicated to training future analog astronauts in Armenia.

• Check out Hanna's photo from Vogue photographer https://www.vogue.com/photovogue/photographers/19692/gallery#4827241

Connect with Hannah:

• LinkedIn: @hannasavme

If you enjoyed this episode and would like to share, I'd love to hear it!

YOU CAN HELP US SEND STORIES TO SPACE! Please visit our GoFundMe campaign, and help send more stories to space! https://gofund.me/62f1ff87

You can follow and share in the socials,

• LinkedIn - @casualspacepodcast

• Facebook - @casualspacepodcast

• Instagram - @casualspacepodcast

• YouTube - @casualspacepodcast83

or email me at [email protected].

*Remember!!! You can send your story to space TODAY! The window for STORIES of Space Mission 03 is NOW OPEN! Send your story, for free, to www.storiesofspace.com Also, to help support sending stories about space to space. Visit our 2025 GoFundMe Campaign at this link: https://gofund.me/0638ee0e

Samantha Christensen, a long-time team member at Lowell Observatory, shares the exciting news about the grand opening of the Marley Foundation Astronomy Discovery Center in Flagstaff, Arizona. As Northern Arizona's first science center, the 40,000-square-foot facility offers a major upgrade with cutting-edge exhibits, interactive experiences, and an immersive space for astronomy enthusiasts of all ages. Samantha discusses the community's excitement, especially among educators, and highlights how this new center will serve not only Flagstaff but also underserved communities, including the nearby Navajo and Hopi reservations.

About Samantha Christensen: Samantha Christensen leads Lowell Observatory's outreach team and oversees its programs. She is a principal member of the group designing the experiences guests will enjoy in Lowell Observatory's Astronomy Discovery Center, slated to open in 2024.

Christensen, who began participating in Lowell's outreach programs at the age of four, officially joined the staff in 2009. Before stepping into her current role, she served as Educator, Supervisor, Education Coordinator, and Outreach Manager. She also spent several years working as a research assistant under the direction of Dr. David Schleicher. As Education Coordinator, Christensen designed and launched the Lowell Observatory Camps for Kids (LOCKs) – Preschool program and developed many of the lessons associated with the LOCKs – Elementary School camps.

Christensen graduated magna cum laude from the University of Arizona with a B.S. in applied mathematics.

Resources Mentioned:

• Marley Foundation Astronomy Discovery Center at Lowell Observatory

• Lowell Observatory's website: Lowell.edu

Connect with Lowell Observatory:

• Website: Lowell.edu

If you enjoyed this episode and would like to share, I'd love to hear it!

You can follow and share in the socials,

• LinkedIn - @casualspacepodcast

• Facebook - @casualspacepodcast

• Instagram - @casualspacepodcast

• YouTube - @casualspacepodcast83

or email me at [email protected].

*Remember!!! You can send your story to space TODAY! The window for STORIES of Space Mission 03 is NOW OPEN! Send your story, for free, to www.storiesofspace.com

Corbett Hoenninger, General Manager of Argotec Inc., has quite the space career. From training astronauts at NASA to helping lead the Dream Chaser's drop tests (including a memorable crash landing), Corbett shares what it's really like behind the scenes of space exploration.

Corbett talks about the recent NASA DART mission, (giving an asteroid a nudge), and how small satellites are changing the game in space. Corbett started working in the field of psychology, then shifted to aerospace engineering… and combining both to present this great philosophy of being "fearless, but not reckless," Corbett proves that you don't have to be a scientist or an engineer to make your mark in the space industry. Sometimes, you just need a spark of curiosity and the courage to explore.

About Corbett Hoenninger: Corbett Hoenninger is the General Manager of Argotec Inc., where he leads exciting projects in small satellite technology and space exploration. His extensive career includes years at NASA Mission Control, where he trained astronauts and worked on mission preparation. Corbett played a pivotal role in the Dream Chaser atmospheric drop tests and was part of the NASA DART mission, where they successfully redirected an asteroid. His journey to aerospace engineering started after serving in the Navy and earning degrees in aerospace and physics. Passionate about mentoring and sharing his experiences, Corbett continues to inspire future space enthusiasts.

Where to Find Corbett:

• LinkedIn: Corbett Hoenninger

• Website: Argotec Group

• Email: [email protected]

If you enjoyed this episode and would like to share, I'd love to hear it!

You can follow and share in the socials,

• LinkedIn - @casualspacepodcast

• Facebook - @casualspacepodcast

• Instagram - @casualspacepodcast

• YouTube - @casualspacepodcast83

or email me at [email protected].

*Remember!!! You can send your story to space TODAY! The window for STORIES of Space Mission 03 is NOW OPEN! Send your story, for free, to www.storiesofspace.com

Chris Quigg, the celebrated theoretical physicist and co-author of Grace in All Simplicity, whisks us away on a journey through the wonders of particle physics—served with a dash of poetry and a sprinkle of grace! With a talent for turning complex ideas into accessible stories, Chris shares insights from his new book and reveals the inspiration behind its intriguing title. Listen for unforgettable moments in the history of science and get a sneak peek into life at iconic research centers like CERN and Fermilab.

Thank you, Chris, for showing us how curiosity and a love for learning can transform our understanding of science and our approach to life.

About Chris Quigg: Chris Quigg has spent his career making particle physics approachable and fascinating for everyone. Having worked at world-renowned institutions like CERN and Fermilab, he's explored fundamental questions about the universe. In Grace in All Simplicity, co-authored with Bob Kahn, Chris combines science with storytelling, inviting readers to discover the personal journeys of scientists behind remarkable breakthroughs. His warm and engaging style draws in curious minds of all ages to experience the wonder of physics.

Resources Mentioned:

• Grace in All Simplicity by Chris Quigg and Bob Kahn

• CERN Science Gateway – A new visitor center bringing science to life for the public

• Fermilab's Lederman Science Center – An educational space for kids and families to explore the wonders of science

Connect with Chris: Twitter/X: @chrisquiggbsky.social: @chrisquigg

Check out the reviews of the book: Nature: https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-023-03424-5 Science https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adl2396.

If you enjoyed this episode and would like to share, I'd love to hear it!