Space Spiels

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 specialized path.

Maddie demystifies what consulting in the aerospace industry really entails, and she offers candid advice for those navigating their early careers. This episode is packed with information and inspiration! Enjoy!!

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 college. She discusses how to balance school and internships, and why it’s (maybe??) worth it. Kara also gives advice on approaching one’s first internship and the importance of making meaningful professional connections.

Tune in for a story of passion, perseverance, and a love for space!

Connect with Kara

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 engineering, overcame challenges, and launched an organization empowering women in aerospace. This conversation is one you don’t want to miss!

Connect with Holly Pascal

Follow the Women's Aerospace Network on Instagram

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 episode is a great listen.

Connect with Ben!!

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 experience during his earlier years. He then discusses the Flight Director selection and training process. Derek concludes with an amazing story about something going wrong while he was on console. This is a must listen!

Check out Derek’s Background

More on STS-120

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 you find the balance between pushing yourself to do hard things and grow while also not neglecting mental and physical wellbeing? Listen to this amazing conversation for the answers!!

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 giddy when I think about it. This goal is the drive behind my career.

This summer, I will get the chance to step into that room for the first time. To say I’m excited is an understatement. This summer I will be working at NASA Johnson Space Center on the ETHOS team. 

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 chaotic, listen.

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 failure. Enjoy this week’s episode!!

Roderic's LinkedIn

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, Paige gets vulnerable while also answering silly questions: what's with the sloths? Enjoy this listen!