Maynard Okereke (the Hip Hop M.D): A trailblazing Science Communicator and STEM advocate

In this episode, we had the privilege of diving into the world of analog space missions with Emily Apollonio, CEO and founder of Interstellar Performance Labs. Emily shared insights into her dynamic leadership journey, her commitment to optimising safety and performance in critical missions, and her dedication to empowering aspiring astronauts. We explored the innovative programs offered by Interstellar Performance Labs, such as the Stellar Training for Astronaut Readiness (STAR) program, which prepares individuals and crews for future missions through a comprehensive curriculum covering physical and mental performance, team dynamics, and human factors. Emily's passion for space exploration and her unwavering dedication to breaking barriers left us inspired and eager to embrace the future of space exploration.

OUTLINE:

Here’s approximate timestamps for the episode.

00:44 Intro to Episode

01:14 Interstellar Performance Labs

02:30 Emily’s Origin Story

05:20 What is an Analogue Mission

07:08 Key Challenges of Missions

11:35 Could you live without a smart phone?

12:27 Space Tourism Preparation

18:30 Stellar Training for Astronaut Readiness (STAR) program

22:30 Corporate Analogue Missions

25:24 Picking a team

28:51 Challenges in building a business

32:58 Worlds Largest Analogues Mission

35:35 Should anyone do a mission?

37:22 Wrap Up and Socials

Connect with IPLabs:

Website: https://www.iplabs.space/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iplabs.space/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100083847033624

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/interstellar-performance-labs/

Stay connected with us!

Use #Astroben across various social media platforms to engage with us!

Youtube: www.youtube.com/@astrobenpodcast

Website: www.astroben.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astrobenpodcast/

X: https://twitter.com/Gambleonit

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/astrobenpodcast/

In this episode, we dive into the fascinating journey of Susie Martínez, from nail art to space influencer. As a twin sister and daughter of a mechanic, Susie's path to NASA's doors was filled with unique twists and turns. We explore her transition from being one of the only girls studying mechanical engineering at a large university, to finding her niche in the space industry. Susie shares insights into her experience as a NASA intern, navigating the fashion side of space, and the empowering message of embracing individuality. Join us as we uncover Susie's inspiring story and celebrate the power of being true to oneself.

OUTLINE:

Here’s approximate timestamps for the episode.

00:00 Intro to Susie Martinez

00:43 Space Industry Career - Origin Story

04:40 What is a Payload Engineer?

10:27 Motivation for Sci Comm & STEM outreach

16:18 The Space Gala

17:50 The Galactic Gal - Why Space?

19:00 Tailoring content

20:20 Wearing red lipstick

23:20 Losing Individuality

26:58 The Artemis Program

31:10 Twin Study

32:20 Final thoughts on getting women into STEM

34:40 Wrap Ups and Socials

Connect with Susie Martinez:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adastrasu/

X: https://twitter.com/susealcyone

Stay connected with us!

Use #Astroben across various social media platforms to engage with us!

Youtube: www.youtube.com/@astrobenpodcast

Website: www.astroben.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astrobenpodcast/

X: https://twitter.com/Gambleonit

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/astrobenpodcast/

In this episode, we have the privilege of chatting with Jeffrey Hill, the Executive Chairman of the renowned SATELLITE 2024 Conference. Jeff shared fascinating insights into the intricacies of running one of the world's largest satellite tech events, highlighting his experiences interviewing space luminaries like Jeff Bezos, Richard Branson, and Elon Musk. Find out how Jeffrey is the most cropped-out person in history and what to expect with this years SATELLITE conference in 4 weeks time!

OUTLINE:

Here’s approximate timestamps for the episode.

00:39 The countdown! (to the show)

02:15 SATELLITE 2024 Conference

04:20 Memorable interview moments - Elon Musk, Richard Branson, Jeff Bezos

13:53 Ben’s question to Richard (not a good question but Ben was excited to ask) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NJym7TP5XCQ

14:30 Importance of “Big Names” to get people interested in Space Conferences

18:12 Managing stakeholders interests

22:58 Didn’t want to mention it but - Covid?

28:22 The Public’s understand of Satellites

34:51 Hopes for SATELLITE 2024 Conference and the future of Satellites

42:10 Rachel Jewett - On Orbit Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/on-orbit/id1463422073

42:54 Wrap Up and Socials

Connect with the SATELLITE SHOW!

Website: https://www.satshow.com/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/satellite-conference-exhibition/

X: https://twitter.com/SATELLITEDC

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/SatelliteToday

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SATELLITEDC

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/viasatellitemagazine/

Stay connected with us!

Use #Astroben across various social media platforms to engage with us!

Youtube: www.youtube.com/@astrobenpodcast

Website: www.astroben.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astrobenpodcast/

X: https://twitter.com/Gambleonit

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/astrobenpodcast/

In this episode, we have the privilege of diving into the world of Maynard Okereke, better known as the Hip Hop M.D., a dynamic science communicator and STEM advocate. Ben and "Hip Hop" explored Maynard's journey from civil engineering to award-winning SciComm, highlighting his passion for blending humour, education, and creativity. They discussed the importance of representation in the STEM fields and the role of storytelling in inspiring future generations. Maynard shared his unique perspective on bridging the gap between science and entertainment, emphasising the need for inclusivity and empowerment in our pursuit of knowledge. As they wrapped up, Maynard left us with a powerful vision for a future where every child in a classroom has access to the wonders of space, igniting curiosity and fostering a deeper connection to the cosmos.

OUTLINE:

Here’s approximate timestamps for the episode.

01:00 Who is the Hip Hop MD?

02:44 Fascination with the cosmos

05:53 Going to Space/Overview Effect

09:34 Importance of Storytelling

13:42 Challenging stereotypes and ensuring representation in STEM

18:44 Importance of role models

22:50 Impact of Hip Hop Science

26:50 Future of space education/Artemis/vision for future of classroom

34:28 Final thoughts/Upcoming children’s book!

36:40 Wrap Up and socials

Connect with Maynard Okereke, Hip Hop M.D:

#HipHopScience

Website: www.HipHopScienceShow.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/hiphopscienceshow

Facebook: www.facebook.com/HipHopScienceShow

Stay connected with us!

Use #Astroben across various social media platforms to engage with us!

Youtube: www.youtube.com/@astrobenpodcast

Website: www.astroben.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astrobenpodcast/

X: https://twitter.com/Gambleonit

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/astrobenpodcast/

In this episode, Ben chats to Dr. Mark Wagner, CEO of ARES Learning and a leading figure in space education, to discuss his journey from high school English teacher to space education advocate. With a background in educational technology and a lifelong passion for space exploration, Dr. Wagner shares insights from his book "Space Education: Preparing Students for Humanity's Multi-Planet Future" and highlights the importance of inspiring the next generation of space explorers.

OUTLINE:

Here’s approximate timestamps for the episode.

00:33 Intro to episode

01:23 Space Educator

03:41 Technology in Space Education

07:40 SLOOH https://www.slooh.com/

11:50 Aldrin Family Foundation https://aldrinfoundation.org/

19:50 Space Education for Space Exploration

23:10 Corporates “getting in” on space

26:19 Space Curriculum & Mark’s Book: https://www.amazon.com/Space-Education-Preparing-Humanitys-Multi-Planet/dp/B0B7QDGYWB/

29:30 Space Education Legacy

33:23 Wrap Up and Socials

Connect with Dr. Mark Wagner:

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/markdouglaswagner 

Facebook: facebook.com/markdouglaswagner

Instagram: instagram.com/markwagner/  

X: x.com/markwagner/ 

Stay connected with us!

Use #Astroben across various social media platforms to engage with us!

Youtube: www.youtube.com/@astrobenpodcast

Website: www.astroben.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astrobenpodcast/

X: https://twitter.com/Gambleonit

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/astrobenpodcast/

In this episode, we delved into Dr. Greg Hodgin's groundbreaking work at ZC Institute, where the fusion startup is exploring the possibilities of quantum spacetime distortion for micro-scale fusion and, eventually, faster-than-light warp drives. The "quantum hack" approach, collaboration with research institutions, and the ambitious timeline outlined by Dr. Hodgin shed light on the potential future of space travel!

OUTLINE:

Here’s approximate timestamps for the episode.

00:35 Introduction to Greg Hodgin

00:56 ZC Institute

03:10 Experimental

03:30 What Greg is describing/showing - click here (slide 4-10) https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/197sfzxkAXvi7GjrS72qLPoiQ4UzmCwWE/edit?exids=71471483,71471477#slide=id.p6

09:05 FTL (Faster Than Light)

14:11 Technical overview

21:10 Quantum Hack

27:47 Limitless Power

31:30 Could this be scaled with billionaire backing?

37:30 Dare Mighty Things (and smaller things)

40:10 Wrap Up and Socials

Connect with Greg Hodgin:

ZC Concept: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/197sfzxkAXvi7GjrS72qLPoiQ4UzmCwWE/edit?exids=71471483,71471477#slide=id.p6

Website: https://zcinstitute.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/greg-hodgin/

Stay connected with us!

Use #Astroben across various social media platforms to engage with us!

Youtube: www.youtube.com/@astrobenpodcast

Website: www.astroben.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astrobenpodcast/

X: https://twitter.com/Gambleonit

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/astrobenpodcast/

In this episode, we journey through the vast cosmos with Professor Chris Lintott, a distinguished astrophysicist and presenter of the BBC's 'Sky at Night.' Our discussion revolved around his latest book, "Our Accidental Universe," where Chris eloquently unraveled the accidental nature of astronomical discoveries. From the diverse worlds in our Solar System to the outer reaches of the observable universe, he shared captivating stories and insights. We delved into the charm of lazy astronomy, the profound connection to the cosmos, the allure of a dark night sky, and even the mysteries behind why Uranus and Neptune share the same colour.

OUTLINE:

Here’s approximate timestamps for the episode.

00:40 Introducing Chris

00:57 Weather effecting stargazing!

01:45 Dogstars Podcast (will come back to this later in episode!)

02:26 Cosmic perspective

04:30 The Moon

06:27 Accessibility of astronomy and Jupiter

08:44 Fascination with Space

10:28 Uranus and Neptune are the same colour!

17:45 Keeping an open mind to astronomy

19:00 Vera Rubin Observatory https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vera_C._Rubin_Observatory

20:28 SETI

21:56 Chris’s predictions for the future

24:20 Oumuamua - what was it?

27:40 Sky At Night

28:30 Challenges/Joy’s of presenting Sky At Night/Science Communication

30:53 Our Accidental Universe Pre-Order Now: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Our-Accidental-Universe-Discovery-Asteroids/dp/1911709186

31:25 Dog Stars Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/dog-stars/id1663196276

33:22 Wrap Up and Socials

Follow Chris Lintott

X: https://twitter.com/chrislintott

Sky At Night Profile: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/profiles/4jgzzH6CBH7b5K0qblb73nZ/professor-chris-lintott

Book Link: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Our-Accidental-Universe-Discovery-Asteroids/dp/1911709186

Stay connected with us!

Use #Astroben across various social media platforms to engage with us!

Youtube: www.youtube.com/@astrobenpodcast

Website: www.astroben.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astrobenpodcast/

X: https://twitter.com/Gambleonit

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/astrobenpodcast/

Buckle up, cosmic adventurers! In this episode, we soared through parallel universes with the brilliant Paul Halpern, professor of physics at Saint Joseph’s University. From Rick & Morty vibes to bouncing universes, we unravel the mysteries of the multiverse. Explore BRAIN Worlds, bubble universes, and join the cosmic conversation on the future of multiverse research. Also we discussed Paul's book "The Allure Of The Multiverse" which you should buy in this and any other universe!

OUTLINE:

Here’s approximate timestamps for the episode.

00: Intro to Paul

00:45 The Multiverse - like Rick & Morty?

04:10 The Allure of the Multiverse and Paul’s origin story

06:50 How many dimensions are there?

13:10 Humanities handle on fundamental forces

15:40 Bouncing Universes

20:30 Can we visit a parallel universe? BRAIN Worlds!

25:22 Bubble Universes

29:55 Future of multiverse research

35:11 Wrap Up and socials

Follow Paul Halpern

Website: https://allureofthemultiverse.com/

X: https://twitter.com/phalpern

Buy "The Allure Of The Multiverse: on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/154160217X/

Stay connected with us!

Use #Astroben across various social media platforms to engage with us!

(NEW - YOUTUBE): www.youtube.com/@astrobenpodcast

Website: www.astroben.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astrobenpodcast/

X: https://twitter.com/Gambleonit

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/astrobenpodcast/

Leslie and Stephen Shaw both have a lifelong love affair with the subject of ufology and both consider themselves to be armchair ufologists. They’ve both been UFO witnesses and are authors of 'Who They Are And What They're Up To' and in this episode they tell Ben their theory about Who and What the UFO’s are!

OUTLINE:

Here’s approximate timestamps for the episode.

00:40 Intro to episode

02:10 Stephen’s and families story

08:15 Why would UFO’s visit us?

09:49 Do UFO’s walk amongst us? Or under?

10:43 Who they are? Evidence?

12:00 Nano diamonds and extinction events

15:26 Underground Cities - and evidence?

19:20 Why stay underground?

21:17 Legends and stories

27:20 UAP Hearing in the US

29:50 Keeping secrets

33:35 We don’t know what we don’t know

37:15 Book Recommendation: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Forbidden-Archeology-Hidden-History-Human/dp/0892132949

38:55 Wrap Ups and socials

Follow Leslie & Steven Shaw

Website: www.whotheyarebook.com

Instagram: https://www.facebook.com/leslie.shaw.author

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/leslie.shaw.author

Buy Book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Who-They-Are-What-Theyre/dp/B0BKCQ363C

Stay connected with us!

Use #Astroben across various social media platforms to engage with us!

(NEW - YOUTUBE): www.youtube.com/@astrobenpodcast

Website: www.astroben.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astrobenpodcast/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Gambleonit

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/astrobenpodcast/

Harry Cliff is a particle physicist and former stand-up comedian specialising in making science accessible and fun. Harry is a research physicist working at the cutting-edge of science at CERN’s Large Hadron Collider. His latest book (Space Oddities) explores a number of exciting anomalies, and asks whether they suggest a revolutionary new scientific age, or if we might be so desperate to see something new that we risk seeing effects where there are none…

In this episode Ben and Harry bond discuss his new book (and anomalies like the Hubble Tension), the synergies between stand up comedy and science communication and what is Early Dark Energy?

OUTLINE:

Here’s approximate timestamps for the episode.

01:05 Intro to Dr Harry Cliff/Christmas vibes

01:58 Upcoming Trip - Work/Play

03:03  Upcoming book:

05:04 The Hubble Tension

08:24 Dark Energy/Matter/Early Dark Energy?

11:50 Researcher at CERN

17:16 Underfunded physicists?

21:15 Stand Up comedian experience

27:30 Quick Fire Question

32:37 Wrap Up’s and Socials

Follow Dr Harry Cliff

Website: https://www.harrycliff.co.uk/

X: https://twitter.com/harryvcliff

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbgme1XF_U51KPbwCrL-XQQ

Stay connected with us!

Use #Astroben across various social media platforms to engage with us!

(NEW - YOUTUBE): www.youtube.com/@astrobenpodcast

Website: www.astroben.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astrobenpodcast/

X: https://twitter.com/Gambleonit

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/astrobenpodcast/