In this episode, Jack Tanner, a fellow flight controller, and I have an unapologetically real conversation about networking in engineering. He shares his “networking origin story,” and breaks down three practical networking steps for beginners. He shares animated stories of awkward moments and lessons learned, revealing how initiative and kindness are the foundation of networking. We close by mentioning our networking pet peeves, with an emphasis on the importance of specificity and authenticity. Enjoy this episode!!
Connect with Jack on LinkedIn here!
Disclaimer: My personal social media communications only reflect my personal views and do not represent the views of my employer or associated organizations.
In this episode, Paige sits down with aerospace engineer Emily Hesby. Together, they unpack the challenges and rewards of dedicating years to a student propulsion team, including how to grow one's confidence. Emily also shares stories from her SpaceX internships -- including her first impressions of Starbase -- and what truly sets exceptional interns apart.
Disclaimer: All opinions and advice in this episode are personal and do not reflect that of NASA or the United States Government.
In this episode of Space Spiels, Paige sits down with NASA Pathways intern Santiago Garza to explore the winding path that brought him into aerospace. Santiago shares how a career counselor helped him discover what he truly wanted to study, why he chose Texas A&M, and how he navigated paying for college with transparency and honesty. He breaks down his Pathways application process (NOTE: this may be outdated), what he thinks helped him stand out, and his experience completing multiple tours. We talk about extending graduation, balancing industry experience with school, and the moments of self-doubt he had to push through along the way. Santiago closes with grounded, thoughtful advice for students hoping to follow a similar path.
In this episode, Paige talks with Sana, an Elevate(her) ambassador who discovered her passion for gliding by simply following her curiosity, not overthinking, just doing. She shares the thrill of “switching off” once airborne and the moment she realized she might be the first female Syrian glider pilot. Sana opens up about the courage it takes to “take the unlit road,” embracing bravery in both flight and life. Through her journey, she highlights the power of community and connection found within Elevate(her) and encourages others to chase what lights them up.
Check out Elevate(her) Aviation
Disclaimer: I am a contractor intern at NASA! my personal social media communications about NASA only reflect my personal views and do not represent the views of NASA or the United States Government.
Paige chats with Naval officer and creator Kellie Sbrocchi about her journey from the U.S. Naval Academy to building a platform that encourages others to “Do Both.” Kellie shares how she learned to balance discipline and creativity, from running track and managing academics to embracing fashion, pageantry, and social media. She opens up about facing criticism, handling rejection, and staying confident while pursuing multiple passions in a male-dominated field. The conversation highlights the importance of rest, resilience, and giving yourself permission to thrive in every part of your life.
Follow Kellie here
Disclaimer: I am a contractor intern at NASA! my personal social media communications about NASA only reflect my personal views and do not represent the views of NASA or the United States Government.
In this short update, I reflect on what Space Spiels has taught me and look forward to the Season 3 premiere in a few months. Thank you all for everything!
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.
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 aerospace engineering, horseback riding, marching band, and scuba diving throughout college—without (completely) losing my mind. 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 night dives. 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.
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!!
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!!
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!!
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!!
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!!
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!
Buy Emily and Bruce’s book Star Bound
Support JPL and CalTech
Support the LAFD
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!
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.