It was September 9, 2009; aka 09/09/09.

That was the easy-to-remember air date of the first episode of Talking Space. The Space Shuttle era was ending. For most casual observers, that represented the death knell for the U.S. Space Program. But Gene, Mark and Sawyer knew better, and they were trying to figure out how to best spread the word that all was not lost.

Back then, there were basically only three places to publish a podcast: iTunes, Yahoo and your own website (probably made with Wordpress). Apple didn’t launch its first standalone Apple Podcasts mobile app until 2012. The app was later pre-installed with iOS beginning October 2014.

Now, you can listen to Talking Space on any of what seems like dozens of available podcast aggregation apps.

So, as our gift to you, you get to hear us talk about ourselves for a change – like it or not. Yay!

This time around, our entire on-air team (as it existed when this episode was recorded on September 19, 2023) lets their collective hair down to celebrate and reminisce about how Talking Space got started back in those Wild West days of podcasting. We also discuss how each of us came to find a way to be a part of it. We’ll reveal the "challenging" episodes, the ones that caused us joy, the occasionally stressful times, and the often very rewarding times.

Listen in as we share behind-the-scenes stories of covering historic events, interviewing legendary astronauts, and navigating the ever-evolving world of space exploration.

Discover how Talking Space has grown and adapted over the years, embracing new formats and audiences while staying true to its mission of delivering in-depth analysis and commentary. Whether you're a long-time listener or new to the podcast, this episode offers a unique glimpse into the passion and dedication that drives the Talking Space team.

Don't miss Part 1 of this engaging and nostalgic look back at the past 14 years of Talking Space.

And then, stay tuned for Part 2, coming soon, where the conversation continues!

Be sure to let us know your thoughts on the topics we discuss. You can always reach us at [email protected] .

Show recorded 09-19-2023.

Host: Larry Herrin

Panelist(s): Gene Mikulka, Mark Ratterman, Sawyer Rosenstein and Dr. Kat Robison

Podcast Editor: Larry Herrin