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.

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 Bolden

Connect 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 LinkedIn

Credits:

Executive Producer: Toby Goodman

Audio & Sound Design: Lee Turner

Production by CxS Partners LTD

I’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.

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 BOLDEN

This 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 future

Our 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 BOLDEN

Connect 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 LinkedIn

Credits:

Executive Producer: Toby Goodman

Audio & Sound Design: Lee Turner

Production by CxS Partners LTD

I’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.

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.

This 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 color

Our Favorite Quotes:

Connect 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 LinkedIn

Credits:

Executive Producer: Toby Goodman

Audio & Sound Design: Lee Turner

Production by CxS Partners LTD

I’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.

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 NYE

This week on Kathy Sullivan Explores:

• Bill Nye and the sundial on Mars
• Bill’s experience as an engineer
• The role of dancing in Bill’s life
• Political discussion
• The importance of the advancement of science

Mentioned Resources:

• The Planetary Society
• The Science Rules Podcast

Executive Producer: Toby Goodman

Audio & Sound Design: Lee Turner

Artwork: Ryan Field

Production by CxS Partners LTD 

First published - June 10th, 2021

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.

• 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.

• 🎧 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 Group
• NASA
• Charles Justiz on LinkedIn

Production by CxS Partners LTD

Executive Producer: Toby Goodman

Audio & Sound Design: Lee Turner

Artwork: Ryan Field

Production by CxS Partners LTD

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:

Episode Links: 

Follow Inter Astra on LinkedIn

Connect 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 LTD

Executive Producer: Toby Goodman 

Audio & Sound Design: Lee Turner

Artwork: Ryan Field

Join the #1 community creating equitable access to the business of space.

https://interastra.space/

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.

• 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 challenges

Quote:

Episode 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 Centre

Production by CxS Partners LTD

Executive Producer: Toby Goodman

Audio & Sound Design: Lee Turner

Artwork: Ryan Field

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.

• Christy’s path to HR leadership

• Empowering women in space

• HR’s evolving role in innovation

• Bridging diverse skills for space

• Inspiring future generations

Quote:

Episode Links:

• Connect with Christy on LinkedIn

• Visit VT-ARC

Production by CxS Partners LTD

Executive Producer: Toby Goodman

Audio & Sound Design: Lee Turner

Artwork: Ryan Field

Recorded on location in Virginia, USA with thanks to Nomono’s Sound Capsule

Renee Wynn, former NASA CIO, brings a wealth of knowledge to the discussion of space industry’s multifaceted nature.

She navigates through the critical roles that data science, IT, and cybersecurity play in the expanse beyond our atmosphere.

Wynn’s experience offers a deep dive into the integration of technology in space operations, emphasizing the importance of cybersecurity and debris management to ensure the sustainability of space endeavors.

In this episode, Renee shares her insights on the vast opportunities space offers to diverse professions and the necessity for collaborative efforts to foster peaceful and profitable use of this frontier.

As someone who has transitioned from environmental policy to the realm of IT at NASA, her journey epitomizes the cross-disciplinary nature of space industry roles, highlighting the scope for contribution from virtually any professional background.

In this episode you'll discover:

• The expansive opportunities for a diverse range of professions in the space industry, from data scientists to lawyers.

• Insights into global government collaboration for sustainable space business, emphasizing peaceful operations and risk mitigation.

• The essential role of cybersecurity and space debris management in the growing space economy.

• How NASA embraces arts and design, including how Origami-inspired technology, is essential to space innovation.

• Renee’s personal narrative on transitioning careers and the value of inviting unexpected talent into the space sector.

• A strategic approach for entrepreneurs and businesses considering the space industry, focusing on problem-solving and innovative partnerships.

Quote:

Episode Links

Follow Renee on LinkedIn

NASA

Listen to The Heart of a Public Servant with Renee Wynn

on ‘Kathy Sullivan Explores…’ Now part of the Inter Astra Podcast Network

Credits:

Production by CxS Partners LTD

Executive Producer: Toby Goodman

Audio & Sound Design: Lee Turner

Artwork: Ryan Field

Join the #1 community creating equitable access to the business of space.

https://interastra.space/

Meet Sarah Pousho, CEO of Space Bridge Partners, a trailblazer connecting private capital with space missions focused on exploration, science, and education. With a background in global licensing and a lifelong passion for space, Sarah brings a unique perspective to the industry. In this episode, she shares her journey from the consumer products world to leading a company that bridges the funding gap for non-commercial space missions. Tune in to discover how Sarah is opening doors for new entrants in the space sector and why she believes there’s a place for everyone in this exciting field.

Sarah leads Space Bridge Partners, an organization dedicated to securing funding for space missions organized by nonprofits, universities, and small civil space agencies that lack large budgets. By connecting wealthy philanthropists, brand sponsorships, and media licensing opportunities, she helps bring groundbreaking missions to life that might otherwise remain grounded.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

• Sarah’s journey from global licensing to the space sector.

• How Space Bridge Partners supports science missions through private funding.

• The critical role of “space outsiders” in building a thriving space ecosystem.

• Sarah’s tips for newcomers looking to break into the space industry.

• The exciting future of mission-focused partnerships and exploration.

Quote:

Episode Links:

Check out Space Bridge Partners

Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn

Credits:

Production by CxS Partners LTD 

Executive Producer: Toby Goodman

Audio & Sound Design: Lee Turner

Artwork: Ryan Field