Space Spiels

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 like interning at the White House, interning at NASA, founding a nonprofit focused on menstrual freedom, and conducting zero-g research on menstruation in space. She reminds us that caring deeply about Earth AND space are not mutually exclusive. This conversation is packed with persistence (including a little delusion), purpose, and proof that you really can be all the things you want to be.

Elevate Us

Manju's Website

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 down the strategies that kept me grounded and thriving. I also get real about impostor syndrome and the importance of perseverance, especially in a field designed to challenge you. Finally, I talk about how to recognize your strengths, pursue what excites you (like space toilets!), and chase your goals boldly. This episode is full of honest advice and motivation for any aerospace nerd, college student, or otherwise. 

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 sustainable (but 95% might be). From USC game days to scuba diving after work. From moving my horse cross-state to performing under a space shuttle. This episode is an informative, honest, yet chaotic verbal journal entry. If you're wondering how to pursue your passions and your degree, this one's for you.

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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

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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!!

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. This is an absolute must listen!

Guests:

Mike Gruntman - ASTE founder

Dan Erwin - ASTE founder

Joesph Kunc - ASTE founder

Armen Arakelyan - ASTE undergraduate student (RPL)

Jordan Smith - AME master’s student (LPL)
Kevin Sampson - ASTE PhD student

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 Instagram

Space Spiels Instagram

Elevate(her)

Cosmic Girls

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 connections he has made. This is a great listen!! 

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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 City Airport sparked her passion for flight, leading to her PPL(H) at just 19 and her PPL(A) four years later. Her journey highlights the culture of opportunity in aviation, the variety of roles that build a career, and the resilience it takes to keep growing. As a Department for Transport Aviation Ambassador and founder of ELEVATE (her), she’s actively creating community and empowering the next generation, particularly women in aviation. Tune in for an incredibly inspirational episode!!

Elevate(her) website

Katherine's Instagram

Space Spiel's Instagram

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 history. We explore her creative process, including how she turns technical history into compelling stories in her amazing new book! Don’t miss this inspiring and entertaining conversation with a true space enthusiast!

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