Episode 01: The Human Element: Redefining Space for All

🎙️ Episode Description

In this powerful first episode, host Aisha joins actress and impact leader Nadine Nicole (The Expanse) to talk about identity, inclusion, and what it really means to make space for everyone.

From personal journeys to the Citizen Astronaut Program, they explore how storytelling can spark change—and why you don’t need a STEM degree (or a perfect resume) to become an astronaut or shape the future of space.

If you’ve ever felt like you didn’t belong in the space industry (or any industry), this one’s for you!

🔗 Universal Inclusion Links

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/universal_inclusion/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/universal-inclusion-ui/ 

⏱️ Time Stamps / Chapters

• 00:00 – Lights, Camera, Lift-Off

Meet Aisha and special guest Nadine Nicole as they set the stage for a podcast that’s all about making space more human.

• 01:40 – What is Space for Humanity?

Nadine explains the Citizen Astronaut Program and her involvement.

• 02:31 – Who is Aisha?

How Aisha’s roles at Universal Inclusion and Space for Humanity led to the podcast.

• 04:32 – The Power of Storytelling

DEI as human experience, not politics.

• 10:14 – Why Inclusion in Space Matters

Nadine on diversity in space, underrepresentation in media, and authentic storytelling.

• 14:31 – You Don’t Need to Be at the Top to Inspire

Uplifting voices at every career stage.

• 16:56 – Aisha’s DEI Journey

Growing up biracial in Northern Alberta and recognizing inequality early on.

• 27:49 – The Moment It Clicked

Reading Citizen Astronaut applications and realizing the impact of inclusive space access.

• 31:05 – Nadine’s Cosmic Connection

From The Expanse to Joshua Tree stargazing and global awe.

• 33:12 – Space is for Everyone

Space belongs to all of us — not just the privileged.

• 35:27 – How to Get to Space (Without a STEM Degree)

What makes a powerful Citizen Astronaut—and how anyone can apply.online.

• 41:43 – What’s Next

Teaser for Episode 02: Katia Echazarreta, the first Mexican-born woman to fly to space.

👤 Guest Bio

Nadine Nicole is an actress, most known for her performance as Clarissa Mao on the renowned sci-fi hit The Expanse. Beyond acting, Nadine is passionate about social impact initiatives. She founded True Connection, a nonprofit dedicated to inspiring a deeper understanding of interconnectedness and is launching The Centered Self: A Guide and Journal to Rewriting Your Life's Narrative,. A true creative Nadine is also the founder of Yari Designs, a fine jewelry brand focused on promoting diversity and women empowerment, and Shared Elegance, a circular economy fashion initiative. Stay tuned for updates on her projects as she continues to inspire through storytelling and advocacy.

🔗 Guest Links

• IG@_nadinenicole_
• IG @_sharedelegance_
• www.sharedelegance.com