Casual Space

Dr. Danny Jaques, a 36-year veteran science educator, Space Camp Hall of Famer, and founder of Danny's Rocket Ranch, joins Beth for a review of the Project Hail Mary film adaptation. A lifelong educator who has taken nearly 600 students to Space Camp and spent decades bringing science to life in the classroom, Danny brings a perspective to this conversation that you simply cannot get anywhere else. Beth and Danny dig into what works, what got left on the cutting room floor, and what the film means for the next generation of students, astrobiologists, and space dreamers who will walk out of the theater wanting to know more. If you haven't read the book yet, consider this your sign. Then come back and listen to this. Dr. Danny Jaques & Danny's Rocket Ranch Website: https://www.dannysrocketranch.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DannysRocketRanch Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dannysrocketranchspacesalsa X: https://x.com/drr_spacesalsa LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dannysrocketranch Project Hail Mary Movie Website: https://www.mgm.com/movies/project-hail-mary Book by Andy Weir: https://www.amazon.com/Project-Hail-Mary-Andy-Weir/dp/0593135202 Audiobook narrated by Ray Porter: https://www.audible.com/pd/Project-Hail-Mary-Audiobook/B08G9PRS1K

Josh Hanes, whose work at Uplift Aerospace focuses on expanding access to space through student-centered education and immersive experiences, returns to the show with major updates on what's happened since STORIES of Space submitted its community database at the end of 2025. https://www.upliftaerospace.com Beth and Josh celebrate two landmark achievements: the successful laser engraving the story database from STORIES of Space into a 5D crystal along with over 3,000 messages from students, teachers, and community storytellers around the world, an extraordinary archival medium capable of preserving data for potentially millions of years, and the integration of that crystal onto Astrolab's FLIP rover on March 2nd, 2026. Josh explains how 5D crystal technology works, using femtosecond lasers to modify atomic structures within crystal, storing terabytes of data in a piece no larger than a quarter. He walks through the mission patch artwork created by Dr. Sian Proctor, who implemented a word cloud of student messages into a design now displayed prominently on the rover itself. The FLIP rover, a pathfinder mission for Astrolab's larger FLEX rover planned for the Artemis program, is targeting the lunar South Pole and is expected to launch in the middle to late part of 2026. When it arrives, it will carry the dreams, hopes, and words of STORIES of Space contributors as part of what Josh describes as a living archive of humanity at this pivotal moment in history. This episode is a must-listen for anyone following the STORIES of Space journey, or for anyone who wants to understand just how close we are to a genuine paradigm shift in humanity's relationship with space. The future is not a promise on the horizon anymore, it is already being built. Follow along at https://www.upliftaerospace.com and across their socials at @UpliftAerospace on Instagram, X, and LinkedIn.

Have you read "Project Hail Mary," by Andy Weir? No spoilers in this episode, as Beth reviews three of the main characters, and wonders how they will make the leap from page to the silver screen. Project Hail Mary on Amazon

The deadline for submitting stories to the Moon on MISSION 06 with STORIES of Space has been extended to December 28! In this episode, Beth selects & shares five recently submitted stories that will be sent to the Moon. Hundreds more will be sent to the moon along with these inspiring stories. Will yours be one of them? You have until December 28 to submit your story at storiesofspace.com About STORIES of Space Stories of Space is a non-for-profit organization that collects personal narratives about space, and sends them into space. MISSION 06 will take stories to the lunar surface, creating a lasting legacy. Learn more at storiesofspace.com

This week on Casual Space, Beth is joined by two extraordinary guests: Josh Hanes, CEO of Uplift Aerospace and Dr. Sian Proctor, astronaut, artist, educator, and founder of Space2Inspire to share an announcement that's truly out of this world. Josh, whose background spans physics, advanced propulsion concepts, and aerospace leadership with a mission to expand access to space for all through innovative education and immersive experiences, explains how Uplift's journey has grown from astronaut training to student-centered lunar missions. https://www.upliftaerospace.com Dr. Proctor, best known as the first African-American woman to pilot a commercial spacecraft on the Inspiration4 mission and a celebrated science communicator and artist, shares how her experiences have shaped her work in space, art, and education. https://space2inspire.art Together with Beth, they unveil STORIES of Space MISSION 06, a groundbreaking initiative that is taking human-written stories and student messages to the Moon aboard Astrolab's FLEX rover. This mission blends creativity, STEM learning, and legacy, preserving voices and visions from classrooms and communities in laser-engraved crystal time capsules and symbolic artwork. You'll hear how this collaboration unites awe, imagination, and education, inspiring students to think bigger and dream longer, and how this mission invites listeners to send their story to be embedded onboard a rover that will help explore the lunar surface! This episode is a must-listen (and watch on YouTube) for anyone curious about how storytelling, art, and space exploration intersect—and how your own story might find its way to the lunar surface. Visit storiesofspace.com to submit your original work before the December 16 deadline and become part of this historic lunar journey.

This week on Casual Space, Beth welcomes back a very special guest: Stephen Matier, President & CEO of Maritime Launch Services, to celebrate Canada's history-making commercial suborbital launch completed at the end of November. Fresh from the launch pad in Canso, Nova Scotia, Beth and Steve sit down to reflect on the extraordinary milestone for Canada's growing space sector and share the personal, behind-the-scenes stories that made the mission unforgettable. You can both listen AND watch this conversation on YouTube, where Beth shares exclusive launch-day footage, photos, and the emotional moment when the STORIES of Space payload took flight. https://www.youtube.com/@casualspacepodcast83 Let's Celebrate Canada's New Era of Space Access Listen as Steve shares the significance of this suborbital mission—how it strengthens Canada's sovereign launch capability, what makes Spaceport Nova Scotia so strategically powerful, and why this successful demonstration matters for future orbital flights. You'll enjoy hearing Steve reflect on the countless preparations, the coordination with national agencies, and the humbling reality of seeing years of work soar into the atmosphere. STORIES of Space: A Payload with Heart Beth shares the profound impact of having STORIES of Space selected as the featured payload on this mission—representing storytellers from across Canada and around the world.Together, they discuss why sending stories to space is more than symbolic—it's deeply human, deeply connective, and essential to inspiring the next generation of explorers. Steve and Beth recount the unscripted moments from the launch site • the anticipation• the countdown• the roar of the rocket• the incredible sense of community• and the moment the payload carrying hundreds of stories lifted off to complete the 5th mission in just two short years!!! These reflections shine a light on the teamwork, passion, and persistence behind a mission that will shape Canada's space future. This episode includes special launch images, videos, and behind-the-scenes moments you won't want to miss. https://www.youtube.com/@casualspacepodcast83 Learn More about Maritime Launch Services and our STORIES of Space MISSION 03 success at https://www.maritimelaunch.com/news Posted Friday at 6:48pm – Edit or Delete

This week on the Casual Space Podcast, I'm joined by my friend, adventurer, and all-around visionary Jessica DeAngelo — founder of Hike to Become®, author of the international bestseller The Wild Advantage, and the leader behind a movement that encourages us to step outside (literally) to find the clarity, creativity, and calm we keep trying to chase indoors. Jessica works with leaders from companies like Amazon, Nike, and Uber to help them break out of the boardroom mindset and reconnect with the part of themselves that already knows the answer. Her 31-day outdoor awareness challenge and executive nature-based retreats have helped hundreds of professionals solve complex problems, unlock breakthrough ideas, and return to their work with purpose (and joy!). In our conversation, we talk about: Why your brain actually works better outdoors (and what the science says about it) How movement, nature, and curiosity come together to unlock new thinking The surprising truth behind burnout — and why "working harder" is the opposite of the solution What happens when you finally make space to hear your own ideas again The magic that comes from small steps (or walks) taken consistently This isn't just a conversation about hiking. It's about learning to reclaim the part of ourselves that thrives in wonder, exploration, and stillness — whether that's on a trail, in your neighborhood, or simply stepping away from the demands that never seem to end. As someone who has hiked with Jessica, learned from her, and taken the Hike to Become challenge myself, I can tell you this: The shift is real. And powerful. You don't have to summit a mountain to rediscover your clarity — you just need to be willing to step outside and listen. Jessica DeAngelo Founder & Chief Hiking Officer of Hike to Become® TEDx Speaker Executive Retreat Leader & Strategy Facilitator Author of The Wild Advantage: Why Your Brain on Nature Is Your Boldest Business Move Lover of wide open skies, big ideas, and good snacks She lives in Boise with her husband and two spirited kiddos who remind her that adventure is always within reach — especially when you're holding a granola bar. Where to find with Jessica Website: www.jessicadeangelo.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-deangelo-mba/ Instagram: @hiketobecome If today's conversation inspires you to get outside — even just for five minutes — then you're already on your way. Let's go find what's waiting for you out there.

What does life after space look like for an astronaut? For Mike Foreman, it looks like community, connection, and continuing to serve — just a little closer to Earth. Mike is a retired NASA astronaut, a U.S. Navy veteran, and the current Mayor of Friendswood, Texas. Over the course of two Space Shuttle missions — STS-123 and STS-129 — Mike logged more than 637 hours in space and completed five spacewalks (that's over 32 hours working outside the spacecraft!) helping to deliver and assemble parts of the International Space Station (ISS). Today, he's using those same lessons from space and service to inspire students, encourage future explorers, and remind us that curiosity, teamwork, and resilience aren't just mission-critical in orbit — they matter right here at home, too. In this episode, Mike joins Beth for an open and inspiring conversation about: How seeing Earth from orbit forever changes your perspective, especially orbiting over Australia The teamwork behind every NASA mission and why leadership is about trust How his journey led from Naval test pilot to astronaut to Mayor Mike's story is one of lifelong curiosity and service — from flying jets and fixing the ISS to leading a city and mentoring the next generation. His message? Never stop learning, serving, or looking up. About Mike Foreman: NASA Astronaut (Ret.) – Selected in 1998 Two Space Shuttle Missions: STS-123 (2008) & STS-129 (2009) Five Spacewalks: 32 hours, 19 minutes total U.S. Navy Captain (Ret.) with more than 7,000 flight hours Current Role: Mayor of Friendswood, Texas Motivational Speaker on space, STEM, and leadership Why You'll Love This Episode: If you've ever wondered how astronauts translate their experiences beyond NASA — or how one person can move from exploring the cosmos to improving their own community — this conversation will leave you inspired. Mike reminds us that exploration doesn't end when you come home from space. It just changes direction. WATCH this episode and more Casual Space Podcast conversations on You Tube! https://www.youtube.com/@casualspacepodcast83 Want to share your story with us, so we can send it to space? The deadline for submitting your original story to STORIES of Space MISSION 03 has been extended! Don't miss this last opportunity to launch your story to space in 2025! www.storiesofspace.com

In this exciting new episode of Casual Space, Beth is joined by Alex Martin to share all the details about STORIES of Space MISSION 03, launching soon from Canada's first commercial spaceport in beautiful Nova Scotia! Together, Beth and Alex talk about what it takes to prepare for this historic suborbital mission — from planning and partnerships to payloads and the people who make it all possible. Listeners will get an insider's look at how stories (your submitted stories) are being sent to space, connecting us all to exploration in a deeply personal and creative way. They'll also discuss how Maritime Launch Services and T-Minus Engineering are helping make this mission a reality, and how teachers, students, and storytellers can still submit their stories for inclusion on this incredible journey. In this episode, you'll discover: What makes MISSION 03 unique and why it's such a milestone for Canada How STORIES of Space is connecting humanity to space exploration through storytelling Behind-the-scenes insights from the team preparing for launch How you can send your own story to space before the October 31st deadline Learn more or submit your story: storiesofspace.com

This week on Casual Space, Beth is joined by Alex and Chad for a lively and candid conversation about their unforgettable underwater MISSION 05 STORIES of Space adventure! Together, Paul, Alex, Chad and Beth took STORIES of Space to new depths—literally—by bringing human stories into an underwater research habitat. Join us as we swap stories, laughs, and lessons learned from this one-of-a-kind mission. From the early days of planning and unexpected challenges, to the pure joy of exploring together as a team, this episode pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to make exploration happen—above and below the surface. Discover how storytelling connects us not just to space, but to the incredible environments right here on Earth. In this episode, we discuss: What it's like to bring STORIES of Space underwater for the first time The behind-the-scenes logistics and planning that made MISSION 05 possible Challenges we didn't expect (and how we tackled them together!) The joy of exploration as a team—plus a few fun moments along the way Lessons we'll carry forward into future missions Whether you're a space enthusiast, a fan of exploration, or just love a good behind-the-scenes story, this episode will make you feel like you're part of the crew. Listen now and dive in with us for MISSION 05!

What if Walt Disney's real magic wasn't perfection…but persistence? In this episode, Beth takes you behind the myths of creative genius to explore how Disney built through failure, loss, and uncertainty—and why those moments became the foundation for his greatest successes. From bankruptcy to Mickey, from "Disney's Folly" to Disneyland, Walt's story reminds us that the impossible often starts in the middle of adversity. Beth connects Disney's journey with her own: building Casual Space, launching STORIES of Space, and saying "yes" to dreams long before things felt easy or certain. This week, discover why you don't have to wait for the perfect time to start. You can lay a foundation—even in the hardest seasons—that carries you (and others!) to new heights. Because sometimes, the story that feels small today becomes the launchpad for something extraordinary.

It's that time of year for back-to-school! What does that mean for grown-ups and space explorers like us? For me,it means diving into the stack of books that keep me learning, curious, and inspired. As the host of Casual Space Podcast, I'm fortunate enough to receive books from our incredible guests, so sometimes I choose what to read, and other times the stories find their way to me. Right now, I'm re-reading two standouts so rich with insight that I've taken notes, underlined passages, and even brought some of their wisdom into my work. I believe a book becomes truly powerful when its ideas are shared, and that's where the magic of storytelling begins. In this episode, I'm sharing my fall reading wish list—from space history to slow productivity—and a few titles that are changing how I think and work. We'll talk Walt Disney, Cal Newport, and the joy of reading as a lifelong companion. So, what's on your fall reading list? Let's trade recommendations and keep turning the page—together.

Something magical happens when you bring the right people, the right purpose, and one wild idea together — and then take it 30 feet below the ocean's surface. In this episode, we're celebrating STORIES of Space MISSION 05, where our crew lived for four days in the world's only underwater habitat, Jules' Undersea Lodge. We didn't just bring gear… we brought hundreds of YOUR stories — the same ones that have flown to the International Space Station — and immersed them in an extreme environment to see what new tales would emerge. I'll share the challenges, the triumphs, and the small, beautiful moments that reminded us why human stories belong wherever humans explore. From malfunctions and midnight laughter to sunbeams dancing like Poseidon's trident, this mission was about more than survival. It was about connection. You'll hear about: How we became aquanauts carrying your stories to the sea floor 🤝 The crew's teamwork under pressure My personal journey overcoming fear, setbacks, and the "cold, dark unknown" What the ocean taught us about resilience, trust, and the sacredness of human stories Where We're Headed Next: The sea is just the beginning. From suborbital space flights to lunar adventures, our mission is clear — if humans go there, our stories should too. Your story matters. Whether you're under the sea, above the Earth, or chasing your dream from home — share it with us. Visit storiesofspace.com to learn how your voice could be part of our next adventure.

In this episode, Beth introduces and personally invites you to join MISSION 05: STORIES of the Sea, the latest adventure from STORIES of Space — and it's unlike anything she's done before. Beth and her crew are heading to Jules' Undersea Facility, to live, work, and explore from beneath the ocean's surface, bringing YOUR stories along with! Why? Because space and sea have more in common than you might think. Confined environments, exploration, isolation, teamwork — it's a powerful, immersive experience that connects us more deeply to our planet... and to each other. Here's where you come in: The STORIES of Space team are carrying every story ever received on this mission — from space to sea — and would be honored to bring yours along, too. Whether it's a short note, a memory, a dream, a white paper, or a heartfelt message about space, the ocean, or what it means to be human — our mission is to carry it with us as we become aquanauts. Don't wait! Submit your story by July 8 at storiesofspace.comThis is the only underwater mission of the year — and a chance to be part of something that's never been done before. So let's explore our Earth's oceans and tell this story together! Because exploration begins with the stories we share.

Ever feel like you can't take a break because there's always one more thing to do? In this heartfelt episode in the abbreviated Summer-ease (summeries) series, host Beth Mund explores the myth of "earning" your time off — and how a much-needed family vacation almost didn't happen because of it. Tune in as Beth shares: The chaotic lead-up to pressing pause on work, life, and laundry How her family rediscovered joy, spontaneity, and s'mores (not necessarily in that order) Surprising science on why breaks literally make you healthier, happier, and way more creative A gentle reminder that time isn't something you earn — it's already yours Whether you're a parent, a professional, or just someone trying to close 43 tabs in your brain, this episode is your permission slip to breathe, unplug, and maybe even plan that trip you keep putting off. Listen to learn why leaving your task list behind just might be the smartest thing you do all year- and the science behind why taking that break is SO good for your productivity. Download this episode. Then listen & get outside.

John A. Read is no stranger to reaching for the stars—both figuratively and literally. Fresh off earning his Master's in Space Systems Engineering from Johns Hopkins (without an undergrad in engineering—yes, really), John joins Beth to explore his fascinating journey from finance to astrophysics, and from a $15 pharmacy telescope to founding Stargaze Nova Scotia, a public dark-sky observatory. Along the way, John shares how a spark of curiosity from a Chris Hadfield novel launched him into grad school, how he's helping democratize astronomy through smart telescopes and best-selling books, and why his family's space-inspired creative projects continue to inspire new generations of stargazers. Beth and John also explore the rapid evolution of space tech, investing in emerging space companies, and what celestial sights to look forward to this summer—including a can't-miss list of stellar showstoppers for both casual observers and seasoned skywatchers. About John A. Read: John is an award-winning astronomy author, YouTuber, and outreach educator whose books—including 50 Things to See with a Telescope—have helped thousands learn to stargaze. His company, Learn to Stargaze, creates accessible astronomy resources and experiences for all ages. John also leads Stargaze Nova Scotia and helps manage the historic Abbey Ridge Observatory, bringing the wonders of the cosmos to the public through tours, events, and online content. John's family is equally starry-eyed—his wife and daughter create space-themed art and poetry, including the first augmented-reality space poetry book inspired by a trip to orbit! Mentioned in this episode: 🌌 Stargaze Nova Scotia—a new dark-sky observatory and public stargazing destination 🌌 The Abbey Ridge Observatory Association, bringing real-time views of the cosmos to visitors 📚 50 Things to See with a Telescope series, plus astronomy certification challenges from the Astronomical League and Royal Astronomical Society of Canada 📚 Chris Hadfield's The Apollo Murders, the spark that launched John's latest academic adventure 🚀 Upcoming commercial launches from Maritime Launch at Canso Spaceport 🔭 Affordable smart telescopes like the Celestron C-Star making astrophotography more accessible ⭐ Upcoming celestial highlights: Perseid meteor shower, Lagoon & Swan Nebulae, globular clusters, and more summer stargazing favorites You can explore more of John's work, books, and stargazing tips at: https://www.learntostargaze.com/ Learn to Stargaze on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/learntostargaze 50 Things to See with a Telescope on Amazon And if you're near Nova Scotia, keep an eye out for Nova East Star Party and public nights at Stargaze Nova Scotia—because the stars are always better shared.

Mark O'Connell returns to Casual Space to discuss one of the most extraordinary scientific collaborations in human history: the 1957 International Geophysical Year. With his signature wit and storytelling style, Mark takes us on the journey behind his NEW book, The Year Science Changed Everything, revealing how 6,000 scientists from 66 nations put aside political differences to study Earth's greatest mysteries—from the depths of the ocean to the edge of space. Beth and Mark explore the ripple effects of this global effort, including the formation of the Antarctic Treaty, the surprising roots of the Artemis Accords, and what IGY can teach us about tackling today's climate crisis. You'll hear how a Steely Dan song sparked Mark's decades-long curiosity, how scientific rivalries shaped history, and yes—even how a penguin nap could put you in violation of an international agreement. It's part history lesson, part love letter to science, and all kinds of fun. You'll also get a behind-the-scenes look at Mark's next creative project: a comedy script about astronomers Johannes Kepler and Tycho Brahe—think Amadeus meets Knives Out, with a golden nose and planetary motion thrown in. About Mark O'Connell Mark O'Connell is the author of The Year Science Changed Everything: 1957's International Geophysical Year and the Future of Our Planet, published by Prometheus Books. He also wrote The Close Encounters Man, a biography of astronomer and UFO researcher J. Allen Hynek. In addition to writing books, Mark is a seasoned screenwriter with credits on Star Trek: The Next Generation and Deep Space Nine, and he teaches screenwriting at DePaul University in Chicago. 🎧 Explore more of Mark's work on his podcast Far-Fetched 🌌 Learn more at markoconnell.info Want to learn more about how Beth connects with guests like Mark, and how her career in space began? Send Beth a note directly at [email protected] and follow the show on all the socials. Want more engaging stories about our future in space? Learn how you can send your own, original story to space right now- at storiesofspace.com

Have you ever looked up at the stars and wished someone could walk you through the wonders above your head — without needing a PhD for confusing telescope parts? Well, you're in luck. In this episode, I'm thrilled (and honestly, a little misty-eyed) to reconnect with my lifelong friend and kindred curiosity-seeker, Kevin Rehberg! Kevin is the founder of his newly- launched company, ClearSky Events, providing a truly magical mobile stargazing experience for people looking to ENJOY the simple wonders of stargazing. Kevin's love of the night sky began at age 10 with a clunky plastic telescope and a whole lot of imagination. I was lucky to watch Kevin fall in love with the night sky - Kevin was one of my very first friends growing up, when playing with friends meant playing outside. From climbing trees to looking at stars, Kevin has always had a spirit of exploration. I'll never forget how excited he was to assemble & peer through his first telescope and share it with all of us kids in the neighborhood... Fast forward to today, and he's transformed that passion into something extraordinary: bringing the awe of Saturn's rings, the surface of the moon, and deep-sky galaxies to your backyard — no astronaut suit required. We talk about: The hilariously humble beginnings of his telescope adventures from our backyards How ClearSky Events is making stargazing accessible, unforgettable, and portable Why curiosity is one of the best forces in the universe (and in life) What it's like building a business rooted in joy, family, and sharing wonder with others It's rare to have a friend who shares your dreams as a kid and grows up to build something that lets others dream bigger. I couldn't be more grateful for Kevin, for his heart, and for this full-circle conversation under the stars. If you're planning an event, looking for the perfect way to wow your guests, or just need a little wonder in your week — discover ClearSky Events in this week's episode. Contact Kevin and host your very-own, memory-making event TODAY! https://www.clearsky.events/ About Kevin: Founder Kevin Rehberg's fascination with the night sky began when he was 10 years old. Armed with a comically bad department store telescope and a budding lifelong curiosity, he would venture into shin deep snow to discover the dynamic visual wonders of Saturn, Jupiter, Mars, Venus, the moon, and beyond. ​ He quickly realized that the most rewarding part of exploring the night sky was sharing it with friends. A couple equally horrible telescope purchases later, he gifted himself the college graduation present of a state of the art observatory-grade computerized telescope. From day one with his new telescope, Kevin envisioned a time when future versions of it would be smart enough to make the night sky accessible to even the most casual stargazer. That day arrived with the very recent mainstreaming of smart telescopes. ClearSky Events is the progression of that eleven year old's passion for sharing the night sky with a jiggly plastic telescope to today's ability to connect the deepest sky wonders with new friends the world over. ​ Kevin is married to Regina and together they have two wonderful daughters who share that same curiosity for everything big and small in our universe. A long time coming to arrive at ClearSky Events, but worth every minute of the wait. Share that same passion with the guests of your next event. https://www.clearsky.events/ Want to learn more about how Beth connects with guests like Kevin, and how her career in space began? Send Beth a note directly at [email protected] and follow the show on all the socials. Want more engaging stories about our future in space? Learn how you can send your own, original story to space right now- at storiesofspace.com