In Her Orbit
Shawn Linam
Shining a light on trailblazing women in the space industry, Qwaltec Co-Founder and CEO, Shawn Linam, talks with women about their careers and the feminine experiences of working in a male-dominated industry. Join us every other Monday in celebrating these women and their successes, reaching new heights In Her Orbit!
Maraia Tanner: Engineering Access to Space and a More Sustainable Future
In this episode, we’re joined by Maraia Tanner, Chairwoman of the Board and CEO of STAR HARBOR, the company behind the world’s first publicly accessible spaceflight training facility. With a degree in astrophysics from UC Irvine, Maraia’s career spans the commercial and defense sectors, including engineering roles at TRW, Northrop Grumman, NASA, and JPL. She’s contributed to major missions like the Mars Sample Return and Space Interferometry Mission, co-authoring work on the structural challenge
Apr 14, • 38:04
Lauren Fell: Bridging Quantum Cognition and the Future of Human Exploration
In this episode, we’re joined by Lauren Fell, an Outreach and Marketing specialist at Lunar Outpost Oceania and a PhD candidate in Quantum Cognition. Lauren’s cutting-edge research explores how quantum concepts shape human intuition, particularly in trust-based decision-making. Lauren has contributed to projects like reforestation in the Galapagos and paleontology in Argentina and was honored with the Inspiring Future Leader Award at the QLD 40 under 40 Awards in 2023. Her work has been publishe
Mar 31, • 45:25
Michelle Lucas: Inspiring the Next Generation to Look Towards the Stars
In this episode, we’re joined by Michelle Lucas, a trailblazer in space and education. From working at NASA’s Johnson Space Center to becoming a technical instructor for astronauts and flight controllers, Michelle’s career has been driven by her passion for space. But her journey didn’t stop there. Michelle founded Higher Orbits, a nonprofit dedicated to inspiring the next generation of STEM leaders through the wonders of space. Tune in to hear how Michelle is using her experiences to spark curi
Mar 10, • 51:41
Diane Howard: From Fashion Executive to the White House
In today's episode, we're joined by Diane Howard, Principal of sur l'espace PLLC and Visiting Professor at UT Austin School of Law/Strauss Center for International and Security Studies. Diane takes us through her unique career journey, from the fashion industry to space law, and ultimately to her former role as Director of Commercial Space Policy at the National Space Council in the Executive Office of the President.---Where to Find Diane:Linkedin---Hosted by Shawn LinamProduced by Sicily Seitz-
Feb 24, • 35:15
Meagan Crawford: Launching Businesses to Success
In today's episode, we're joined by Meagan Crawford, Co-Founder and Managing Partner of SpaceFund, Co-Founder of the NewSpace Business Plan Competition, and Host of the Mission Eve Podcast. This week, Meagan dives into her journey of starting her own VC firm, how startups can find success through space business plan competitions, and the importance of women of all ages pursing space related endeavors to achieve human civilization in space.---Where to Find Megan:Mission Eve PodcastSpaceFundNewSpa
Feb 10, • 43:04
Beth Mund: Sending Stories to Space
In today's episode, we're joined by Beth Mund, the owner of Stellar Communications, the Executive Director and founder of the STORIES of Space Non-Profit, and the host and creator of the Casual Space Podcast. In this week's conversation, Beth takes a seat at the other side of the podcast table where she shares her experience as a a former Public Affairs Officer at NASA'S Johnson Space Center, how that experience led her to creating her podcast and non-profit, and the challenges and joys of being
Jan 27, • 42:12
Marisa Achée: Keep Your Friends Close and Your "Competimates" Closer
Today on In Her Orbit, we're joined by Marisa Achée, the Chief Business Development Officer at a.i. solutions. Join us in this week's conversation where we discuss the marriage between engineering and business development, fostering an employee-centric company culture in small businesses, and how to collaborate with your competitors, transforming them into "competimates".~~~Where to Find Marisahttps://www.facebook.com/aisolutionsinchttps://twitter.com/ai_solhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/aisol
Jan 13, • 34:20
The In Her Orbit Holiday Special
Today on In Her Orbit, we’re bringing together some of our favorite moments from our first year of podcasting. The conversation ranges from professional success and mentorship, to community and family, bringing a comprehensive picture to the female experience in the space industry. —-Guests featured:Dr. Tanya Harrison // Apple | SpotifyLoretta Hidalgo-Whitesides // Apple | SpotifyBrittany Pitcel //
Dec 30, 2024 • 38:00
Sheila Lucas: Building Brave Women in STEM Careers
Today on In Her Orbit, we're joined by Sheila Lucas, A Strategic Growth Leader focusing on Strategy & Business Development and Space Ground Solutions at General Dynamics Mission Systems, Inc.. Join us in this week's conversation where we explore the multitude of pathways to the space industry, and the importance of fostering confidence in young women and girls as they embark on their professional journeys.~~~Where to Find Sheila:https://www.instagram.com/sheilaleonelucas/https://www.linkedin.com
Dec 9, 2024 • 36:48
Sandy Barker: Innovation in Space Education
In today's episode, we're welcoming Sandy Barker, Associate Director and Export Control Officer at The University of Texas at Austin. Join us as we discuss Sandy's experience at NASA JSC, The Texas Rocket Engineering Lab (TREL) at UT Austin, and how a strong support system is crucial to personal and professional success.---Where to find Sandy:https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandybarker---Hosted by Shawn LinamProduced by Avery GarzaEdited by Sicily SeitzMusic by Mr. Stee, www.mrsteemusic.comSupported
Nov 25, 2024 • 32:46
Karsen Kitchen: Kármán Line First, Commencement Second
In today's anniversary episode, we are joined by Karsen Kitchen, the Founder and CEO of Orbitelle, Student at UNC-Chapel Hill, and Blue Origin Astronaut. While Karsen has been working towards her BA in Communications at UNC, she founded Orbitelle, a foundation dedicated to supporting young women in the space industry, and made history as the youngest woman to cross the Kármán Line on Blue Origin's NS-26 mission. Join Shawn and Karsen in this week's discussion as we explore how regardless of your
Nov 11, 2024 • 36:35
Irene Chan: How to Pack for the International Space Station
Today on In Her Orbit we’re joined by Irene Chan, a Flight Planning Engineer at Summit Technologies & Solutions, Inc. where she brings her passion for problem solving to life in support of the International Space Station. In this episode we discuss the importance of finding a supportive profesional community, turning your passions into a career, and how staying true to yourself will reap the greatest reward. - - -Where to find Irene:https://www.linkedin.com/in/ireneschan/https://www.instagram.c
Oct 28, 2024 • 42:53
Dr. Timiebi Aganaba: Life as a Global Futures Scientist
In today's episode of In Her Orbit, we're joined by Dr. Timiebi Aganaba, a Senior Global Futures Scientist and Assistant Professor at Arizona State University's School for the Future of Innovation in Society. We're so excited to have her join us and share her trailblazing story of being at the forefront of space innovation across the world, inspiring generations of women along the way.---Where to find Dr. Aganaba:https://search.asu.edu/profile/3344008Ladies Do Launch Podcast---Hosted by Shawn Li
Oct 14, 2024 • 55:01
Caryn Schenewerk: Law and Policy from Washington to Outer Space
This week we're joined by Caryn Schenewerk, the President and Founder of CS Consulting LLC, where her decades of experience in space law and public policy provide clients with unparalleled strategic guidance. Join us as we discuss Caryn's transition from government offices to commercial space, the growing space law and policy sector, and a glimpse into its future through Caryn's experience as a Commercial Space Law professor at Georgetown University!---Where to find Carynhttps://www.csconsulting
Sep 30, 2024 • 46:13
Amanda Golembieski: Finding Community for Career Success
In today's episode of In Her Orbit, we're joined by Amanda Golembieski, the Principal Systems Engineer at Qwaltec! Join us in our conversation about finding hands-on opportunities in college, what it's like working at Johnson Space Center, and how a supportive professional community is crucial to managing your personal and professional journeys.---Where to find Amanda:https://www.qwaltec.com/LinkedIn---Hosted by Shawn LinamProduced by Avery GarzaEdited by Sicily SeitzMusic by Mr. Stee, www.mrste
Sep 16, 2024 • 39:00
Ariane Cornell: The Interdisciplinary Path to Space
This week's guest is Ariane Cornell, the Vice President of In-Space Systems at Blue Origin. In this episode, Ariane and Shawn discuss Ariane's highlights at Blue Origin, her childhood dreams of space, and how the family unit is crucial to success every step of the way.---Where to find Ariane:https://www.linkedin.com/in/arianecornell/https://www.blueorigin.com/blue-ring---Hosted by Shawn LinamProduced by Avery GarzaEdited by Sicily SeitzMusic by Mr. Stee, www.mrsteemusic.comSupported by Qwaltec--
Sep 2, 2024 • 34:19
Jessica Rousset: Using a Biomedical Background to Shape an Intergalactic Future
This week's guest is Jessica Rousset, the Director of Arizona State University's Interplanetary Initiative! In this episode, Shawn and Jessica discuss how having a non-space background can provide unique perspective when looking to our space future, and how full-picture diversity is just the start to effective collaboration.---Where to find Jessica:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicalrousset/https://interplanetary.asu.edu/---Hosted by Shawn LinamProduced by Avery GarzaEdited by Sicily SeitzMusic
Aug 12, 2024 • 37:39
Sharon Hagle: Space Education for the Next Generation
This week we’re joined by Sharon Hagle, the Founder and CEO of SpaceKids Global, a foundation bringing space education opportunities to children nationwide. In this episode, Shawn and Sharon discuss inspiring children to build our space future, the importance of STEAM education, and Sharon’s experience of flying to space with Blue Origin!Where to find Sharon:www.spacekids.globalhttps://www.facebook.com/thespacekidsglobalhttps://twitter.com/spacekidsglobalhttps://www.instagram.com/spacekidsglobal
Jul 22, 2024 • 37:52
Coralie Adam: Navigating Deep Space
In this episode of In Her Orbit, we’re joined by Coralie Adam, the Optical Navigation Lead at KinetX! Today we dive deep into what it takes to fly a spacecraft through the cosmos and what steps it takes to get there.- - -Where to find Coralie:https://www.linkedin.com/in/coralieadamhttps://www.kinetx.com/---Hosted by Shawn LinamProduced by Avery GarzaEdited by Sicily SeitzMusic by Mr. Stee, www.mrsteemusic.comSupported by Qwaltec--Find In Her Orbit on:InstagramLinkedInFacebook
Jul 8, 2024 • 34:35
Sadie Duffy: Empowering Small Businesses in Maryland's Space Industry
This week on In Her Orbit we are joined by Sadie Duffy, the founder and CEO of Astralis Technologies! Starting a new business is a daunting task, especially with imposter syndrome causing self-doubt. In this episode, Shawn and Sadie discuss how they moved through it to build successful, ethical, and holistic businesses.---Where to find Sadie:https://www.linkedin.com/in/sadieduffy/https://www.astralistechnologies.com/---Hosted by Shawn LinamProduced by Avery GarzaEdited by Sicily SeitzMusic by Mr
Jun 24, 2024 • 37:34
Celeste Ford: Paving the Way for Women in Space, Engineering, and Venture Capital
In today's episode of In Her Orbit, we're joined by Celeste Ford, the Founder and Board Chair of Stellar Solutions, and Managing Director of Stellar Ventures! Join us as Shawn and Celeste unpack how her experience as one of the first female engineering students at The University of Notre Dame built the confidence she needed to start her own engineering business and now enter the world of venture capital.---Where to find Celeste:https://www.linkedin.com/in/ceford/https://stellarsolutions.com/http
Jun 10, 2024 • 36:32
Laura Crabtree: Entrepreneurship in the Age of Remote Work
This week, we are joined by Laura Crabtree, the Co-Founder and CEO of Epsilon3! In today's episode, we discuss Laura's experience training crew at SpaceX, the freedoms that come from starting your own business, and the transition from technical to front-end business roles.---Where to Find Laura:www.twitter.com/epsilon3incwww.instagram.com/epsilon3incwww.linkedin.com/epsilon3incwww.linkedin.com/lauracrabtree---Hosted by Shawn LinamProduced by Avery GarzaEdited by Sicily SeitzMusic by Mr. Stee, ww
May 27, 2024 • 35:47
Shawn Linam: Starting a Business from Scratch as a New Mom
It's a Mother's Day special! This week, our host Shawn Linam is interviewed by her two daughters, Camryn and Avery Garza. Join us as Shawn and her daughters discuss what it was like growing up with the business, the future of the industry for mothers, and family.---Camryn Garza on LinkedInAvery Garza on LinkedIn---Hosted by Shawn LinamProduced by Avery GarzaEdited by Sicily SeitzMusic by Mr. Stee, www.mrsteemusic.comSupported by Qwaltec--Find In Her Orbit on:InstagramLinkedInFacebook
May 13, 2024 • 36:10
Negar Feher: Consulting Paving the Road to CEO
Today's guest is Negar Feher, the CEO of Orbital Outpost X! This week, Negar and Shawn discuss family dynamics, transitioning to the front-end of business, and the growing community of female CEOs!---Where to find Negar:https://www.orbitaloutpostx.com/https://sustainablespaceconsulting.com/---Hosted by Shawn LinamProduced by Avery GarzaEdited by Sicily SeitzMusic by Mr. Stee, www.mrsteemusic.comSupported by Qwaltec--Find In Her Orbit on:InstagramLinkedInFacebook
Apr 29, 2024 • 39:44
Maria Varmazis: Translating Space and Technology for a General Audience
Today we are joined by Maria Varmazis, host of the N2K T-Minus Space Daily Podcast! In this episode, Shawn and Maria share their thoughts on the importance of communications and media in STEM, the secret behind public speaking, and the connections between the cybersecurity and space industries.---Where to find Maria:https://www.mvarmazis.com/https://space.n2k.com/podcasts/t-minusSticky Pickles Spotify // Apple---Hosted by Shawn LinamProduced by Avery GarzaEdited by Sicily SeitzMusic by Mr. Stee,
Apr 15, 2024 • 41:30
Rachel Lyons: How the Overview Effect Can Save our Planet
In today's episode, we're joined by Rachel Lyons, a Leadership Coach and Board Member of Space for Humanity. This week we discuss how to implement the impacts of the overview effect into our daily lives, how our paths from education to professionals are not always straightforward, and bringing our authentic selves to our work.Ron Garan's video on the Big Think---Where to find Rachel:rachellyons.comspaceforhumanity.org---Hosted by Shawn LinamProduced by Avery GarzaEdited by Sicily SeitzMusic by M
Apr 1, 2024 • 32:59
Laura Forczyk: Space for the Next Generation
Today's guest is Laura Forczyk, the Executive Director of Astralytical and Author of Rise of the Space-Age Millennials and Becoming Off-Worldly. In this episode, Shawn and Laura discuss what it's like to start a business while having young children, the intergenerational workplace, and where space and spirituality meet. ---Where to Find Laura:https://astralytical.com/https://www.lauraforczyk.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauraforczyk/https://twitter.com/LauraForczykhttps://www.instagram.com/la
Mar 18, 2024 • 39:19
Kellie Gerardi: Sharing the Magic of Space Flight Using Social Media
Today we are joined by Kellie Gerardi, Payload Specialist on Virgin Galactic's Galactic-05 Mission, Author, and Science Communicator. This week Shawn and Kellie discuss how to embrace our enthusiasm, gender inclusivity in human space flight, and how to encourage the next generation to embrace their multitudes!---Where to find Kellie:https://www.kelliegerardi.com/https://www.instagram.com/kelliegerardi/https://www.tiktok.com/@kelliegerardiLuna Muna Book Series---Hosted by Shawn LinamProduced by A
Mar 4, 2024 • 41:22
Dr. Meenakshi Wadhwa: Revealing Mars' Secrets with the Mars Sample Return Program
Today's guest is Dr. Meenakshi Wadhwa, Director of the School of Earth and Space Exploration at Arizona State University and Principal Scientist at the Mars Sample Return Program at Jet Propulsion Laboratory. In this episode, Shawn and Dr. Wadhwa discuss exploring the red planet, following your passions, and the growing community of women in planetary science.---Where to find Dr. Wadhwa:https://wadhwagroup.asu.edu/https://sese.asu.edu/https://mars.nasa.gov/msr/mission/science/---Hosted by Shawn
Feb 19, 2024 • 31:20
Brittany Pitcel: Evolving Crew Training at NASA's Space Vehicle Mockup Facility
This week's guest is Brittany Pitcel, the Space Vehicle Mockup Facility's Technical Integration Lead at KBR. In this episode we explore how to take advantage of opportunities, the importance of community, and how education plays a role in it all.---Where to find Brittany:https://www.linkedin.com/in/brittany-pitcel/---Hosted by Shawn LinamProduced by Avery GarzaEdited by Sicily SeitzMusic by Mr. Stee, www.mrsteemusic.comSupported by Qwaltec--Find In Her Orbit on:InstagramLinkedInFacebook
Feb 5, 2024 • 35:10
Dr. Christyl Johnson: Finding your Confidence and Landing at NASA
This week we're welcoming Dr. Christyl Johnson, the Deputy Center Director for Technology and Research Investments at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center. Join Shawn and Dr. Johnson this week as they unpack the importance of setting good habits early, working through imposter syndrome, and the value of diversity in innovation.Where to find Dr. Johnson:https://www.nasa.gov/people/christyl-johnson/https://www.linkedin.com/in/christyl-johnson-1091256/---Hosted by Shawn LinamProduced by Avery GarzaEd
Jan 22, 2024 • 45:06
Taryn Struck: Building a Collaborative Space Future at the Interplanetary Initiative
This week we're joined by Taryn Struck, Portfolio Manager at Arizona State University's Interplanetary Initiative. Today Shawn and Taryn discuss how any career can lead to a space career, the importance of a holistic technical and social collaboration within a team, and some new, exciting project at ASU Interplanetary!Where to find Taryn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/taryn-struck-1457b424/https://interplanetary.asu.edu/---Hosted by Shawn LinamProduced by Avery GarzaEdited by Sicily SeitzMusic by M
Jan 8, 2024 • 33:57
Christina Korp: From Singer Songwriter to Astronaut Wrangler
This week we're joined by Christina Korp, founder and CEO of SPACE for a Better World. Today Shawn and Christina discuss the importance of bringing creativity to our work in STEM, parenting while maintaining a high-level career, and bringing out self-confidence from within.Where to find Christina:https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinakorp/https://www.instagram.com/xtina_korp/https://www.spaceforabetterworld.com/---Hosted by Shawn LinamProduced by Avery GarzaEdited by Sicily SeitzMusic by Mr. Stee
Dec 26, 2023 • 43:33
Adeena Mignogna: How Sci-Fi can Build a Career in Space
This week on In Her Orbit we're joined by Adeena Mignogna, systems and software engineer, public speaker, and author of The Robot Galaxy Series! In this episode, Shawn and Adeena discuss fostering one's love for science fiction, time management, and inspiring future generations!Where to find Adeena:https://adeenamignogna.com/The Robot Galaxy SeriesThe BIG Sci-Fi Podcast---Hosted by Shawn LinamProduced by Avery GarzaEdited by Sicily SeitzMusic by Mr. Stee, www.mrsteemusic.comSupported by Qwaltec-
Dec 18, 2023 • 39:47
Sandy Johnson: Scaling a Woman Owned and Operated Small Business
This week's guest is Sandy Johnson, Co-Owner and CEO of Barrios Technology, a Woman-Owned Small Business and trusted provider of government and sector solutions. This week we discuss the importance of forging your own path, the joys (and challenges) of working with family, and standing up for yourself professionally.Where to find Sandy:https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandy-johnson-89954352/https://www.barrios.com/---Hosted by Shawn LinamProduced by Avery GarzaEdited by Sicily SeitzMusic by Mr. Stee,
Dec 11, 2023 • 32:16
Dr. Tanya Harrison: Connecting with our Communities to Promote Inclusivity in Space
This week's episode features Dr. Tanya Harrison, the Co-Founder and CEO of the Earth and Planetary Institute of Canada and Co-Founder of the Zed Factor Fellowship. Our episode this week discusses accessibility within our working environments, the importance of community, and the thrill of researching our neighboring red planet. Where to find Dr. Harrison:https://www.tanyaharrison.com/https://www.instagram.com/tanyaofmars/For All Humankind: The Untold Stories of How the Moon Landing Inspired the
Dec 4, 2023 • 43:50
Loretta Hidalgo Whitesides: Using Our Emotions to Create a Fruitful Future in Space
This week we are joined by Loretta Hidalgo Whitesides, the founder of SpaceKind, author of The New Right Stuff: Bringing Space to Bring out the Best in You, and Virgin Galactic Founding Astronaut. In this week's episode, Loretta and Shawn discuss how to marry enthusiasm and professionalism, the dangers of exploration, and how to find support from your professional environment.Content Warning: Brief discussion of suicide 4:00-5:15Where to find Loretta:https://www.lorettawhitesides.com/Eclipse Fes
Nov 27, 2023 • 41:31
Dr. Elizabeth Newton: Showing Up for Ourselves and Each Other
This week we are joined by Dr. Elizabeth Newton, the Chief Operating Officer at BWXT Advanced Technologies. In This episode, Dr. Newton and Shawn discuss the importance of mentorship, cultivating the whole person, and the differences between industry and academia.Where to find Dr. Newton:https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-newton-34981746?https://www.bwxt.com/what-we-do/advanced-technologies---Hosted by Shawn LinamProduced by Avery GarzaEdited by Sicily SeitzMusic by Mr. Stee, www.mrsteemusic.
Nov 20, 2023 • 38:26
Georgie Brophy: Holistic Leadership and Taking Chances as a Mother in STEM
This week Shawn speaks with Georgie Brophy, the Vice President of Strategy and Growth at Qwaltec. In this episode, Shawn and Georgie take a deep dive into leadership, motherhood, and what it means to truly balance work and family.Where to find Georgie:https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgie-brophy/https://www.qwaltec.com---Hosted by Shawn LinamProduced by Avery GarzaEdited by Sicily SeitzMusic by Mr. Stee, www.mrsteemusic.comSupported by Qwaltec--Find In Her Orbit on:InstagramLinkedInFacebook
Nov 13, 2023 • 38:26
Allison McIntyre: Bringing Femininity to NASA Johnson Space Center
This week we welcome Allison McIntyre, Chief of the Space Vehicle Mockup Facility at NASA's Johnson Space Center. In this episode, Allison and Shawn discuss their time at NASA in the 90s, perseverance in the face of hardships, and the future of space exploration! Where to find Allison:https://www.linkedin.com/in/allison-mcintyre-6498165/https://www.nasa.gov/johnson/space-vehicle-mockup-facility/---Hosted by Shawn LinamProduced by Avery GarzaEdited by Sicily SeitzMusic by Mr. Stee, www.mrsteemusi
Nov 6, 2023 • 38:18