Space Spiels
Space Spiels features down-to-earth, real conversations about life in the aerospace world. The show brings on a variety of guests to discuss the flexible, ever-changing nature of careers in the field, focusing on the honest challenges and human stories behind the industry. It also shares updates across Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube as @spacespiels.
Episodes
Environmental Science, Space, and Not Having It All Figured Out w/ Jaimi Lutes
In this episode of Space Spiels, Paige sits down with Jaimi Lutes to talk about studying Earth and Space science and Environmental Science, researching how bacteria communities could support plant growth in extreme environments, and finding the unexpected connections between space exploration and sustainability here on Earth. Jaimi also shares how marching band, triathlon, mentorship, sleep, and s
What a Career Pivot Actually Looks Like w/ Michael Sola
Michael Sola’s path into aerospace has been anything but linear. In this episode, he shares how an early interest in aviation led him to Pratt & Whitney, graduate school at USC, a hands-on internship at The Aerospace Corporation, and eventually his current propulsion role at Vast. We talk about what it was really like to work full time while attending graduate school in person and leading proj
Breaking Into Aerospace as an International Student: Mark Zhang
In this episode of Space Spiels, Paige sits down with Mark Zhang, a Systems Test Engineer at Joby Aviation, to talk about his journey into aerospace as an international student. Mark shares how The Martian first sparked his interest in space, how his time at Purdue led him toward commercial aviation, and why he became fascinated by the power of airplanes to connect people around the world. He brea
Always Learning: Amy Dill’s Journey to Becoming NASA’s First Female Lunar CAPCOM
It’s the Space Spiels Season 4 premiere!! Paige sits down with NASA’s first female lunar CAPCOM, Amy Dill, to talk about the winding path that led her to the front room of one of NASA’s most historic missions. From discovering MIT through magazines and balancing engineering with hockey to navigating NASA without a clear roadmap, Amy shares how curiosity, collaboration, mentorship, and a willingnes
Failure in Engineering w/ Dylan Johnson
In this episode, Paige sits down with instrumentation and controls engineer Dylan Johnson to talk about his journey in engineering. The conversation dives into his relationship with failure, work-life balance, and the misconceptions many people have about engineers. Dylan shares how embracing mistakes helped shape both his career and the way he supports the people around him. This episode is an ho
From Army to Artemis w/ Matthew Landon
Matt does not speak for the U.S. Army, government, or NASA. All views are our own.In this episode, Paige sits down with Matthew Landon, a Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Army, to talk about his path in the military and aerospace world. Matt shares how his background in intelligence, education, and leadership shaped his perspective. The conversation highlights powerful lessons on trusting your insti
My Imposter Syndrome Experience and How I Overcome it
In this episode, Paige opens up about her personal experience with imposter syndrome and 4 tips that help her overcome it. She breaks down what imposter syndrome is, why so many students in STEM struggle with it, and how it manifests in her. Paige shares honest stories from her time at USC, including academic challenges, self-doubt, and the pressure of being surrounded by top performers. She gives
Art and Space w/ ORBES CEO Anna Shaposhnik
In this episode, Paige sits down with Anna Shaposhnik, founder and CEO of ORBES, to talk about her path into the space industry. Anna shares how her interdisciplinary education at USC’s Iovine and Young Academy allowed her to combine art, design, and engineering while working hands-on at the USC Rocket Propulsion Lab as both a machinist and visual design lead. She reflects on her experience at the
Year One in Aerospace: Anne Weber
In this episode, Paige sits down with aerospace engineering student Anne Weber to talk about her journey into the space industry and finding confidence in a challenging field. Anne shares how Hidden Figures, an inspiring high school speaker, and a visit to Kennedy Space Center helped her realize a career in aerospace was truly attainable -- even after initially doubting whether she was “smart enou
Confidence and Career Leaps w/ theplanekate
In this episode, Paige has a down to earth conversation with Flight Test Engineer Kate Gunderson! She reflects on her best day at test pilot school and the differences between life as a student, a NASA engineer, and now a full-time flight test engineer. Kate dives into how she decided to leave a dream job to chase an even bigger one: choosing growth over comfort. The conversation also covers confi
Answering YOUR Aerospace Questions
In this episode, Paige answers YOUR questions about her background, aerospace, and advice. She shares how she got into space, along with her high school journey. Paige breaks down the differences between aerospace, mechanical, and astronautical engineering while discussing the real pros and cons of the field. She also responds to questions about struggling with math, choosing between engineering a
The Astrophysicist Variant of Elle Woods: Dr. Clary
In this episode, Paige sits down with astrophysicist Dr. Clary Rizzo to talk about her journey from childhood curiosity to direct imaging of exoplanets. They explore how early research experiences shaped Clary’s path. Clary opens up about embracing femininity in the space industry and navigating what it means to be taken seriously while staying true to herself. She shares what life looks like now
Networking 101 with Flight Controller Jack Tanner
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 ment
Building Knowledge and Confidence: Emily Hesby
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.Connect with Emily!
NASA Pathways Intern Santiago Garza
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, an
The First Syrian Glider Pilot: Sana Jumah
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 fl
Handling Rejection and Pursuing Passion w/ LCDR Kellie Sbrocci
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 confi
It's Been 2 Years: SEASON 2 FINALE
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!Space Spiels Instagram
Zero-G Flights and Period Rights: You can do it all w/ Manju Bangalore
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 freedo
My College Experience: How to Land Your Dream Job
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 im
My College Experience: The Key to Life Balance and Extracurriculars
In this solo episode, I unpack how I balanced astronautical engineering, horseback riding, marching band, and scuba diving throughout college— (kind of) gracefully. 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 diving after work. From moving my horse cross-state
What Gliding is really like w/ @GliderQueen
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!!Lilli's InstagramElevate(her)
Coffee, Perseverance, and Human Spaceflight: Breece Phipps
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!!Breece's LinkedInSpaceFox Coffee!!
20 Years of USC Astronautical Engineering ft. 6 Special Guests
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 founderDan Erwin - ASTE founderJoesph Kunc
A Sense of Belonging: Airline Pilot "Raja in the Sky"
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!!Raya's InstagramSpace Spiels InstagramElevate(her)Cosmic Girls
Amateur Propulsion w/ Half Cat Rocketry's Austin Sennott
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!! connect with Austin!share space spiels!!
Informing, Educating, and Inspiring Women in Aviation w/ Elevate(hers) Katherine Moloney
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
Space History Made Simple w/ Star Bound's Author Emily Carney
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 st
Females in Fluid Dynamics!! w/ Maddie Burkey
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 ca
Living in Space: The Most Fun Problem w/ Kara Gaiser
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 give
Strategizing Your Way to Your Dream Job w/ Holly Pascal
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
Princeton, Pitch Perfect, and People ft. Ben Kim
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!!
Becoming a NASA Flight Director: Derek Hassmann
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 proc
Engineering OR Wellness: Can You Have Both?
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 menta
HUGE ANNOUNCEMENT: I will be working at...
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 chan
Slightly Chaotic Discussion with Flight Surgeon Dana Levin
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.
Creating Opportunities w/ Roderic Vanderscoff
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
BONUS: My Summer Internship, Why Sloths?, Life Balance, and More
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 list
From Being the Youngest Engineer to Becoming a Fantastic Mentor: Curtis Lee
Paige kicks off season 2 by interviewing one of her mentors at Vast Space, Curtis Lee. With over 5 years of experience as a Mechanical Engineer, Curtis is candid about his first full time job and how he ended up in aerospace by circumstance. He describes his first position at an aerospace company: he was the youngest engineer at a small startup. Curtis elaborates on the importance of mentorship an
It's Been a Year: SEASON 1 FINALE!!
In today's brief episode, Paige explains how rewarding her podcast hosting experience has been this past year. She describes her plans for the summer and reminds you to leave reviews!!
The Path to my Dream Job w/ NASA JPL's Danielle Marsh
This week, Paige speaks with Danielle Marsh, a Spacecraft Systems engineer at NASA’s JPL. They discuss Danielle’s education experience along with how she made big decisions early on in her career. She discusses the similarities between Johns Hopkins APL and NASA’s JPL along with why she loves her job. This is an amazing listen!
SCUBA Diving in Antarctica at 15 Years Old: John Humphreys' Road to Space
Paige sits down with John Humphreys, a 16 year-old aspiring astronaut. John recently returned from a scientific diving expedition to Antarctica. He debriefs his trip with Paige, sharing the most rewarding and challenging parts of the trip. John also talks about his recent first solo flight in an aircraft, along with his ambitious future aspirations. This episode is a must-listen!
Support John’s G
Astronomer Dr. Vera Gluscevic: Family, Failure, and Science
An astronomer from Serbia, Dr. Vera Gluscevic, tells her story on today's episode. She elaborates on how to persevere through failure and tells the same stories she uses to keep her own students motivated. Dr Gluscevic speaks about balancing her education while also being a mom, and how her life priorities affected big decisions.
Maya Solis: Submarines & Space
On this episode, Paige talks with submariner Maya Solis. The Naval Academy graduate explains what operating a nuclear reactor entails, along with how it relates to space and satellites. Maya discusses the current arms race in space and what her future path entails. Enjoy this episode with my good friend Maya!
Why I Push Myself out of My Comfort Zone: Scuba-Diving and Sky Diving
Today's episode is a life update! Paige shares what she is up to, including scoring an internship and getting into grad school. She also talks about her experience scuba diving and skydiving, and shares why she seeks to push herself out of her comfort zone. Wrapping up with a discussion about life balance, this episode is a great listen!
Empowering Women in Aerospace: Dana Kirchmar
Paige talks with Dana Kirchmar, a coach for women in aerospace. With an electrical engineering background, Dana dives into how she got into aerospace and her experience working on the Space Shuttle. She describes what it has been like working as a woman in aerospace and what she strives for through her coaching. Dana gives tips to women in aerospace and how other people can best support them. This
Studying Aerospace Abroad w/ Arianna Pascale
BONUS EPISODE ALERT! Every wonder what it's like to study Aerospace Engineering as an Italian? Today is your lucky day! Paige sits down with Arianna Pascale, who has studied in Australia, Italy, and Spain. She is currently a Flight Simulator Engineer at Airbus and Master's student. Hear more about her experience by clicking play!
Psychological Safety in Aerospace w/ Patrick Cates
On this episode, Paige sits down with Patrick Cates--the Associate Dean for Undergraduate Programs and Adjunct Faculty at USC's Marshall School of Business--who describes psychological safety. He gives aerospace related examples in which psychological safety could have improved work environments and saved lives. Learn how to apply it to your own teams today by clicking play!
Air France Articl
Ursa Major's Bill Murray
Today, Paige sits down with the EVP of Products at Ursa Major: Bill Murray. Bill elaborates on his educational and professional experience: What is it like to witness a hotfire of a 50,000 lbf engine? How did he find the courage to help start a company? Does college experience actually translate to industry? Find out the answer to these questions by clicking play!
Pursuing Space at the Air Force Academy: Anton Dahm
Paige sits down with Cadet First Class Anton Dahm. Anton is finishing up his fourth year at the Air Force Academy after which he will be commissioning as an officer into the Space Force. Paige and Anton talk about what led to his decision to attend the Academy along with how he was selected to join the Space Force, specifically. Anton describes his involvement at school, including a space educatio
Living with two Astronautical Engineers -- Featuring my Roommates!!
Today Paige sits down with her two roommates: Kylar Flynn and Phineas Kelly. The three of them have been friends since freshman year. They reminisce on stories while discussing their experience at USC along with their goals for the future. Laugh along with us and click play on today's episode!
Hire my friends:
Phineas Kelly
Kylar Flynn
Professional Wingwalker: Kirsten Pobjoy
Kirsten Pobjoy has been a professional wingwalker for 7 years and is the current Head Wingwalker at AeroSuperBatics. She sits down with Paige to discuss how she got into wing walking and what the audition was like. Kirsten describes her training and her relationship with her team of pilots and wingwalkers. She elaborates on her pre-show routine and the difficulties the career entails. Kirsten beau
Prioritizing Hands-On Experience w/ Danetti Martino
Paige sits down with Astronautical Engineering senior, Danetti Martino. After retiring from a year acting as the Lead of USC’s Liquid Propulsion Lab this week, Danetti reflects on how he got here and his lessons learned. As a transfer student, Danetti shares his unique perspective from the Cal State Long Beach Rocketry team and elaborates on how this experience compares to USC. He gives secrets in
Becoming a Flight Operations Engineer at NASA w/ Rachel Glait
Paige talks with Rachel Glait, Flight Operations Engineer at NASA JSC. Rachel describes what led her to pursue Mechanical Engineering, vulnerably sharing that things do not often come easy to her. She elaborates on her ambitions along with describing her internship experience at both the Aerospace Corporation and SpaceX. Rachel tells Paige about her experience at the University of Michigan and how
Becoming an Astronaut: Dr. Garrett Reisman
Astronaut, SpaceX Director of Operations, and Astronautical Engineering Professor, Dr. Garrett Reisman talks with Paige on today's episode. He discusses the engineering route to becoming an astronaut along with the massive impact teachers can have on this journey. Dr. Reisman talks about why he decided to go to graduate school then answers Paige's itching questions about astronauts: Do ast
Space Stories: Early NASA History
In her second ever solo episode, Paige discusses Early NASA history. She begins by talking about the NACA and the beginning of the space race. Paige then discusses the Mercury missions and tells a story about the first man in space. After that, the Gemini missions are described, one of which involves a space sandwich. These stories helped Paige fall in love with space. Enjoy!
Source of information
The Blue Angels' First Female Aviator: Amy Tomlinson
Paige has the honor to sit down with the humble and well spoken Amy Tomlinson. The pair talk about what led to Amy's decision to join the navy along with her journey to joining the Blue Angels. Amy gives tips on how to handle a high stress interview like those she encountered. She elaborates on the connections formed within the elite Blue Angels Flight Demonstration Squadron. Amy ends by talki
USC's Liquid Propulsion Lab Founder: Miguel Maya
Miguel Maya, currently an engineer at Blue Orgin, describes the creation of USC's Liquid Propulsion Lab. He tells Paige about his favorite projects in industry including working on the James Webb telescope. He emphasizes the importance of chasing what interests you and helping others learn. Miguel confirms the rewarding nature of the Aerospace industry and the amazing feeling of watching your
The Importance of Story Telling w/ NASA's Gary Jordan
In today's episode, Paige is joined by Houston We Have a Podcast host: Gary Jordan. Gary describes the moment he realized space is for him, along with his experience in the NASA Pathways Program. He tells Paige how he created NASA Johnson Space Center's official podcast and describes his favorite interviews. Gary tells Paige about the transition to commercial space flight from a public aff
The Importance of Community in Aerospace w/ Caroline O'Neal
Caroline talks to Paige about her path to becoming an Engine Field and Launch Support Engineer at Aerojet Rocketdyne. Caroline started building certification rockets during her undergraduate education and talks about the importance of resilience amongst inevitable failures. She then touches on her journey in graduate school, along with her experience in collegiate rocketry. She has experienced the
Theater Kid to Astronautical Engineer w/ Gage Bachmann
Gage and Paige have names that rhyme and talk about Gage's experience switching majors from Theater to Astronautical Engineering. Gage describes how he keeps that love for theater and music alive in his now STEM focused career. Paige asks him about his current internship at Lockheed Martin, including acquiring a security clearance. Gage shares what he is looking for in a future company after t
Elle Barker: Joining the Space Force!!
Paige talks with Elle Barker, a rising Junior in Air Force (now Space Force!) ROTC at the University of Southern California. Elle talks about her experience growing up as a military dependent and going into USC's ROTC program. She speaks about helping found a student government for military associated community, along with spilling the pros and cons of the U.S. military in general. She wraps u
Using Pulsars to Measure Gravitational Waves With My Physics Teacher
Dr. Vahe Peroomian discusses his journey to becoming an Astronomy and Physics professor at the University of Southern California. He also explains the newest physics research using pulsars to measure gravitational waves and its significance. This episode is informative and entertaining. Click to listen!
Vahe's Website: https://www.vahep.com/
From High School Drop Out to USC Lab Lead: Armen Aroutiounian
Paige had an amazing conversation with Armen Aroutiounian. So much more than a high school drop out, Armen has had a plethora of life experience outside of school, including pursuing music professionally. Armen speaks to the connections between music and his studies, elaborating on his deep rooted curiosity. He describes to Paige how he got here today and his enthusiasm for the future. This must-l
Why Aerospace, Imposter Syndrome, and More: My First Solo Episode
Paige Kaufman talks TO HERSELF for the first time. She discusses why she gravitated towards Aerospace and the steps she has taken in the field, so far. Paige talks about making friends along with the imposter syndrome and comparison that stems from a top engineering program. This episode is a REAL conversation and provides background to the host you know and love.
How to Balance a Full-Time Job, School, and Lab Work w/ Michael Sola
Join Paige for the Space Spiels premier! Recent USC Astronautical Engineering master's graduate and Aerospace Corporation Intern, Michael Sola, shares the secrets to balancing a full-time job, school, and lab work. Mike explains his background, revealing a thread of drive and ambition. Mike is constantly working to do what he loves. He gives Paige advice on how to get right back on your feet a
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