🎙️ Episode Description
In this episode, Aisha sits down with physician, aquanaut, scientist-astronaut candidate, and trailblazer Dr. Shawna Pandya to talk about what it means to build your own path into space.
From flying on parabolic flights to conducting space medicine research, Shawna opens up about her journey, the power of storytelling, and why saying yes (even before you feel ready) is everything. They dive into imposter syndrome, mentorship, and what it’s like to be a South Asian woman reshaping the future of space science.
đź”— Universal Inclusion Links
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/universal_inclusion/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/universal-inclusion-ui/
Time Stamps / Chapters
00:00 – From Stargazing to Spaceflight
Meet Dr. Shawna Pandya, future Virgin Galactic astronaut and pioneer in space medicine.
02:57 – Building a Career in Microgravity
Shawna shares how she got into the IIAS, ran 10+ parabolic flights, and launched her own research path.
06:47 – Breaking Barriers with Space Medicine
From glucose monitors in space to Canadian “firsts,” her work is opening new doors for access and inclusion.
12:14 – Sharing the Journey
Why Shawna uses social media to document her story—and how authentic representation inspires others.
17:12 – Forge Your Own Path
Advice for anyone who doesn’t see themselves in space: conferences, student groups, and saying yes.
28:42 – Mentorship, Mindset & Music
On giving back, overcoming obstacles, playing piano, and raising a rescue parrot named Jules.
👤 Guest Bio
Dr. Shawna Pandya is a physician, aquanaut, analog astronaut, scientist-astronaut candidate with Project PoSSUM, and Director of the IIAS Space Medicine Group. She has flown over 10 parabolic flights, conducted research in microgravity, and is part of Virgin Galactic’s astronaut cohort. A strong advocate for diversity in STEM, Shawna blends science, storytelling, and social media to bring space to life for new audiences.
đź”— Guest Links
- Instagram: @shawnapandya
- Website: shawnapandya.com
- LinkedIn: Shawna Pandya
- IIAS: https://instituteforaerospace.org
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