A Heart For Space

About A Heart For Space

Welcome to A Heart for Space, a podcast hosted by cardiologist, astronaut, and speaker Dr. Eiman Jahangir that explores the journeys of those who push beyond conventional limits to inspire you to pursue your own extraordinary dreams. Drawing from his own path—from immigrating to the United States as a young child to pursuing the astronaut dream for more than two decades—Dr. Jahangir leads thoughtful conversations with remarkable guests about perseverance, ambition, and the mindset required to achieve meaningful goals. Blending personal storytelling with practical insight, A Heart for Space invites you to strap in as we embark on this adventure beyond the stars, exploring what it truly takes to turn possibility into tangible reality. For more information visit https://AHeartForSpace.com

Publisher

Dr. Eiman Jahangir

Category

arts · education · science

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

22 Apr 2026

Latest episode

13 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

18 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   13 Oct 2026

   Chasing the Astronaut Dream with The Inspired 24 | Andrew Parris

   What happens when you've spent your life chasing a dream that still feels just out of reach? For Andrew Parris, the answer is simple: you keep going. From supporting NASA's Space Shuttle and International Space Station programmes to experiencing weightlessness aboard zero-gravity flights, Andrew has built an extraordinary career around his passion for space exploration. His ultimate dream of becoming an astronaut remains alive, and he's determined to keep pursuing it, no matter how long the journey takes. This week on A Heart for Space, Dr. Eiman Jahangir welcomes three-time Emmy Award-winning broadcast engineer and co-founder of The Inspired 24, Andrew Parris, for a conversation about the wonders of space exploration and the perseverance required to achieve your greatest aspirations. Andrew reflects on his years at NASA and the unforgettable moments that shaped his lifelong commitment to space exploration. Together, they go on to explore how The Inspired 24 grew from a chance gathering of space enthusiasts into what is now an international community helping people pursue opportunities in the space industry. Andrew shares how he navigates setbacks and stays ready for new opportunities in his own astronaut journey, as well as the importance of surrounding yourself with supportive people. His story is a reminder that even when the path to your dream takes longer than expected, the courage to keep trying can inspire others to pursue their own. Explore more about The Inspired 24 at https://theinspired24.com/ 00:00 Welcome to A Heart for Space 00:29 Meeting Andrew Parris: The Broadcast Engineer with an Astronaut Dream 02:02 The Family Business: Growing Up in Television 03:29 Inside the Truck: What a Remote Television Engineer Does 04:55 Three Emmy Awards and the Return to Flight 09:36 The Path to NASA: Making Connections in Houston 11:18 Memorable Moments: Shuttle Launch and the Columbia Tragedy 15:56 Flying Zero G: The Most Welcoming Feeling You Can Experience 18:47 Journey to Russia: Behind the Iron Curtain at Baikonur 26:30 The Birth of the Inspired 24: A Dinner That Changed Everything 29:04 Building a Community: Over 300 Members Pursuing Space Dreams 30:52 Success Stories: From Inventory Specialist to SpaceX Technician 35:46 Black Friday: When Dreams Hit Pause 38:50 Never Give Up: Why We Explore and Why It Matters 48:26 The Cyan Proctor Moment: Realizing Others Share Your Dream 49:26 Looking Back at Earth: What It Will All Mean Discover more about Dr. Eiman Jahangir, and preorder your own copy of A Heart for Space, now at https://aheartforspace.com/

2. 

   6 Oct 2026

   The Art of Storytelling | Andrew Gordon

   For more than twenty years, Andrew Gordon helped bring some of Pixar's most beloved characters to life, contributing to films including A Bug's Life, Finding Nemo, and The Incredibles. Behind those iconic stories is a career shaped by rejection and imposter syndrome, as well as experimentation and a determination to keep getting better. In this episode, Dr. Eiman Jahangir is joined by filmmaker, animator, and creative leader Andrew Gordon to talk about the power of storytelling, and what is required when building a career around creativity. Andrew reflects on his initial rejection from Pixar before eventually joining the studio, and the culture that helped produce its groundbreaking films, before exploring why failure and iteration are essential parts of creating something great. As the conversation continues, the pair discuss Andrew's decision to leave Pixar in search of new challenges, and how emerging AI tools are changing what's possible for filmmakers. Andrew also shares why technology can never replace a compelling story and why, even after decades of success, he is still pushing beyond his comfort zone in search of the next great thing he can create. 00:00 Welcome to A Heart for Space 00:32 Meeting Andrew Gordon: From New York to Pixar 02:04 Early Inspiration: A Cousin's Sketchbook and Computer Graphics 03:31 The Commodore Amiga and Finding His Craft 05:22 Heading West: From New Jersey to Animation School 07:18 First Break: Landing at Warner Brothers Looney Tunes 08:20 Rejection and Redemption: The Path to Pixar 10:12 Driving to the Mecca: First Day at Pixar 11:31 The Pixar Culture: Weirdos, Excellence, and John Lasseter 13:01 Imposter Syndrome and Daily Scrutiny 15:30 Animating Characters: From Gil to Mike Wazowski 17:34 The Art of Caricature: Bringing Edna Mode to Life 19:51 Why Pixar Makes Adults Cry Over Toys and Fish 25:09 The Lucky 7 Lounge: Building a Secret Casino at Pixar 27:10 Teaching and Giving Back: Breaking Down the Secrets 28:30 The Internship Program: Molding Through Play 32:40 Storytelling for Business: The Salesforce Success Story 36:31 Leaving Pixar: Twenty Years and a New Chapter 38:21 AI and Animation: The New Frontier at ITEL 41:01 Advice for Aspiring Creatives: Persistence and Fundamentals 43:11 The Space Still Worth Reaching For: Crafting Diamonds Discover more about Dr. Eiman Jahangir, and preorder your own copy of A Heart for Space, now at https://aheartforspace.com/

3. 

   29 Sept 2026

   The Astronaut Teacher | Mike Mongo

   Mike Mongo has spent nearly two decades telling young people something he wishes someone had told him growing up: you have permission to imagine an extraordinary future. Today on A Heart for Space, Dr. Eiman Jahangir welcomes author and self-described “Astronaut Teacher” Mike Mongo for an energetic conversation about childhood dreams, unconventional careers, and inspiring the next generation to see themselves as part of humanity's future in space. Mike shares how watching the Moon landing transformed his childhood ambition from becoming a superhero to becoming an astronaut—and how, decades later, believing that dream had passed him by ultimately inspired him to create an entirely new role for himself. Mike and Eiman explore why he teaches students around the world that tomorrow's jobs are in space, and what Mike has learned from helping young people imagine possibilities beyond the paths already laid out for them, before digging into the philosophy behind his new KID Astronaut Training Manual. Mike also reflects on his own continuing journey toward space, particularly the mentors and strangers who gave him permission to follow an unconventional path, and why success ultimately comes down to doing what you love, with people you love, while helping others. Learn more about Mike and his work at https://mikemongo.com 00:00 Welcome to A Heart for Space 00:37 Meeting Mike Mongo: The Astronaut Teacher 02:41 Batman and the Birth of a Dream 06:02 Becoming the Astronaut Teacher 07:32 The Power of Permission 15:39 Mike Mongo's Kid Astronaut Training Manual 20:07 Astronaut Job Camp and Saxavord Spaceport 26:36 Being 49 Percent Sure of Arrest at NASA 29:11 Blue Origin, New Shepard, and the Blue 92 32:45 Solving for Space to Solve for Earth 39:46 It's Already Too Late, So Bake a Cake 43:46 The Space We're Still Reaching For Discover more about Dr. Eiman Jahangir, and preorder your own copy of A Heart for Space, now at https://aheartforspace.com/

4. 

   22 Sept 2026

   Capturing the New Space Age | Kevin Curran

   Cinematographer Kevin Curran has captured extraordinary stories through his lens for close on three decades. But when COVID brought the world—and his career—to a sudden pause, Kevin began reconsidering what he wanted to do with the time he had left. A lifelong fascination with aerospace provided the answer: use his skills as a filmmaker to document this remarkable chapter in human spaceflight. In this episode, Dr. Eiman Jahangir sits down with Kevin for a conversation about finding purpose in capturing history, and the people pushing humanity beyond our atmosphere. Kevin shares what it was like filming historic moments for Blue Origin, SpaceX and Artemis I, including capturing the reactions of astronauts like Jeff Bezos and William Shatner just moments after their flights. Kevin and Eiman go on to explore Kevin's documentary Beyond Blue Sky, which preserves the remarkable story of SpaceShipOne and the pioneers behind the first privately funded human spaceflight. Kevin reflects on the five-year journey of bringing the film to life and what he's learned from spending time with aerospace visionaries, as well as why pursuing your passion one step at a time can ultimately lead somewhere greater than you ever dared imagine. Learn more about Beyond Blue Sky at https://beyond-blue-sky.com/ 00:00 Welcome to A Heart for Space 00:51 Meeting Kevin Curran: From Electrical Engineering to Cinematography 03:05 The Creative Spark: Taking Things Apart and Putting Them Together 04:42 Finding Purpose in Space: The 2020 Turning Point 05:36 Capturing History: Blue Origin and the Closest Camera 09:24 The Story of Spaceship One: First Private Astronauts 09:46 The $28 Million Miracle: Building a Private Space Program 18:25 Five Years to Tell the Story: The Making of Beyond Blue Sky 20:23 Sitting Across from Legends: Burt Rutan and Brian Binnie 23:17 The Sidewinder Solution: Engineering Under Pressure 25:16 Mike Melville at 64: The First Private Astronaut 27:13 Age Is Just a Number: Human Capacity and Courage 28:07 Brian Binnie's UAP Encounter: A Courageous Disclosure 32:08 The Stigma and the Truth: UAPs in 2020 36:37 What We Lose Without These Stories 38:13 The Power of Parenting: Early Sparks That Drive Greatness 41:14 Advice for Dreamers: Identify Your Passion and Protect It 42:40 NS-16: The Most Meaningful Moment 47:01 Behind the Lens: Capturing Emotional Reactions 48:29 The Overview Effect: Processing the Experience 54:32 The Space Still Worth Reaching For 56:07 Beyond Blue Sky: Where to Watch Discover more about Dr. Eiman Jahangir, and preorder your own copy of A Heart for Space, now at https://aheartforspace.com/

5. 

   15 Sept 2026

   Stepping Outside Your Lane | Shantanu Rai

   For years, Shantanu Rai built his life around medicine, caring for patients in underserved communities while witnessing firsthand the challenges facing both doctors and patients within the American healthcare system. But beyond the exam room, another ambition was taking shape: telling the stories that medicine alone couldn't fully capture. In today's conversation, Dr. Eiman Jahangir sits down with physician and author Shantanu Rai to discuss the intersections of medicine and storytelling, exploring the courage to step outside the lane that's been defined for you. Shantanu shares how his experiences as a physician inspired his debut medical thriller, A Dangerous Diagnosis, why he chose fiction to pull back the curtain on modern healthcare, and the five-year journey of learning an entirely new craft while continuing his career in medicine. Together, they explore physician burnout, the need for meaningful change within healthcare, and the power of storytelling to build understanding and empathy. Shantanu also reflects on reconnecting with your purpose and navigating rejection, sharing why pursuing something outside your established path can sometimes give you the energy to discover just how much more you're capable of. Learn more about Shantanu Rai and his work at https://shantanurai.com/ 00:00 Welcome to A Heart for Space 00:34 Meeting a Doctor-Turned-Author: Writing Under a Pen Name 01:36 The Book's Mission: Pulling Back the Exam Room Curtain 02:28 Why Write Under a Pen Name: Protection and Freedom 07:04 The Dilemma Every Doctor Faces: Stay, Leave, or Fight 07:38 The Third Way: A Great Doctor Fights for All Patients 15:17 The Pit and Storytelling: Showing vs. Telling in Medicine 16:40 From Inspiration to Outline: The Journey Begins 22:28 The Fundamental Problem: Healthcare Economics and Access 28:12 The Unexpected Film Deal: Leaked to Movie Studios 32:18 The Writing Process: 4 AM and a French Press 40:13 Doctors as Natural Storytellers: Reclaiming Our Humanity 43:30 Stepping Outside Your Lane: Energy Management Over Time Management 49:01 The Space Still Worth Reaching For: Finding Stillness Discover more about Dr. Eiman Jahangir, and preorder your own copy of A Heart for Space, now at https://aheartforspace.com/

6. 

   8 Sept 2026

   From Hard Times to Brighter Days | Blessing Offor

   Born in Nigeria and raised in Connecticut from the age of six, Blessing Offor's journey has been shaped by change and an unwavering love of music. After losing much of his vision as a child, years spent sitting still while recovering from eye surgeries gave him something unexpected: time at the piano. What began as one of the few things he could fully do eventually became the pursuit that would define his life. In this episode of A Heart for Space, Dr. Eiman Jahangir is joined by two-time GRAMMY® nominee and award-winning singer-songwriter Blessing Offor for a conversation about resilience, creativity, and what it takes to keep pursuing a dream when there is no clear path forward. Blessing reflects on leaving behind the expectations of a traditional career, moving to Nashville and New York in pursuit of music, navigating years of struggle before his breakthrough on The Voice, and the decade-long journey that ultimately led to a record deal and songs like "Brighter Days" and "The Goodness." Together, they explore the complicated reality of achieving success while simultaneously experiencing profound personal loss. Blessing shares how songwriting helped him process the grief of losing his mother, sister, best friend and partner while creating his deeply personal album Real. He goes on to explore how some of life's hardest seasons can also become its most formative, as well as the importance of maintaining community even as success grows. From returning to Nigeria after more than two decades away to collaborating with Dolly Parton and finding a global audience for his music, Blessing's story is an incredible reminder that pursuing an extraordinary life doesn't mean avoiding hardship, but learning to keep moving forward through it. 00:00 Welcome to A Heart for Space 00:27 Meeting Blessing Offor: From Nigeria to Connecticut 02:50 Growing Up with Vision Challenges 10:15 Falling in Love with Music 15:00 The Decision to Pursue Music 16:25 Moving to Nashville and New York 17:13 The Voice and Breaking Through 21:55 The Ten-Year Journey to a Record Deal 28:24 Writing Brighter Days During the Pandemic 32:55 Going Home: Returning to Nigeria After 25 Years 36:28 Holding the Tension: Success and Loss 42:23 The Power of Community Over Success 43:53 Music as a Way to Process Grief 45:20 Collaborating with Dolly Parton 48:40 Making Music for Everyone 51:02 The Space Still Worth Reaching For Discover more about Dr. Eiman Jahangir, and preorder your own copy of A Heart for Space, now at https://aheartforspace.com/

7. 

   1 Sept 2026

   Following Your Curiosity | John Read

   A cheap, pharmacy telescope changed the course of John Read's life. After years spent building a successful career in corporate finance, John pointed that telescope toward what he thought was a yellow star—and saw Saturn. The experience reignited a fascination with the night sky and eventually gave him the courage to leave behind a stable career, return to university, and build an entirely new life around astronomy. In this episode, Dr. Eiman Jahangir is joined by bestselling astronomy author and Learn to Stargaze host John A. Read for a fascinating conversation about curiosity, career reinvention, and the power of recognizing when you're on the wrong path. John shares how his early love of aviation gave way to a conventional career in finance, how volunteering with an astronomy club inspired his bestselling 50 Things to See with a Telescope series, and why he ultimately took the leap to pursue astrophysics and astronomy education full-time. Together, John and Eiman explore the importance of finding your people and of making astronomy accessible to beginners, before going on to discuss the consistency required to turn an idea into a successful book, career, or creative pursuit. They also examine our increasingly complicated relationship with technology and why putting down our screens may help us rediscover the sense of awe that's been waiting above us all along. Discover more about John and his work at http://www.learntostargaze.com 00:00 Welcome to A Heart for Space 00:34 Meeting John Read: Author and Stargazing Host 10:58 From Air Cadets to Aviation: Finding His People 16:01 The Corporate Path: Finance Career and Growing Restlessness 20:40 The $14 Telescope That Changed Everything 22:53 Writing the First Book: 50 Things to See with a Small Telescope 24:26 The Leap of Faith: Quitting Corporate to Pursue Astronomy 29:07 Building a Book Empire: Translations, Kids Books, and Finding the Formula 31:26 Learn to Stargaze: Creating a YouTube Channel and Brand 44:39 Technology, Stargazing, and the Lost Art of Authentic Experience 48:22 Johns Hopkins and the All-Star Classroom 54:46 Following Your Competence: The Space Still Worth Reaching For Discover more about Dr. Eiman Jahangir, and preorder your own copy of A Heart for Space, now at https://aheartforspace.com/

8. 

   18 Aug 2026

   A Lifetime Pursuing the Overview Effect | Frank White

   For nearly four decades, Frank White has helped give a name to one of the most profound experiences in human spaceflight. His groundbreaking book, The Overview Effect, transformed countless astronauts' descriptions of seeing Earth from space into a concept that continues to shape how we think about exploration, humanity, and our place in the universe. Today on A Heart for Space, Dr. Eiman Jahangir is joined by author, space philosopher, and Overview Effect pioneer Frank White for a fascinating discussion about the childhood curiosity that sparked a lifelong passion for space, the unexpected path that led him to become one of the world's leading voices on the philosophy of space exploration, and why he believes humanity is approaching a pivotal moment in its evolution. Together, they explore how the Overview Effect has influenced astronauts for generations, the rise of commercial spaceflight, and the promise of permanent lunar settlements, before examining why developing a broader perspective may be one of the greatest challenges—and opportunities—of our time. Frank also reflects on the mentors who shaped his remarkable journey and his campaign to finally travel to space after a lifetime spent studying those who have, sharing why declaring your ambitions, embracing rejection, and taking action are essential to pursuing the dreams that matter most to you. 00:00 Welcome to A Heart for Space 02:28 From Childhood Wonder to Life Purpose 05:01 The Space Race and Building Rockets in the Front Yard 08:20 Apollo's Impact and Milestone Moments in Space History 13:30 Political Philosophy and the Power of Paradigm Shifts 16:40 Overview Thinking vs Surface Thinking 18:54 Nationalism, Governance, and the Need for a New Social Contract 21:42 The Birth of the Overview Effect Theory 24:23 Why Do We Explore Space? The Cosmo Hypothesis 30:07 The Consistency of the Overview Effect Across All Astronauts 35:29 Send Frank to Space: Declaring Your Dreams 39:14 The Power of Putting Yourself Out There 42:48 Rejection, Persistence, and Plan B 46:42 The People Who Shaped a Life: From Parents to Gerard O'Neill 52:23 We Are All Crew Members of Spaceship Earth Discover more about Dr. Eiman Jahangir, and preorder your own copy of A Heart for Space, now at https://aheartforspace.com/

9. 

   4 Aug 2026

   The Orbital Perspective | Ron Garan

   As a child watching the Apollo 11 Moon landing from his home in New York, Ron Garan knew he wanted to become an astronaut. That dream eventually led him from flying F-16 combat missions during the Gulf War to spending 178 days in space aboard both the Space Shuttle and Soyuz spacecraft. But it wasn't reaching orbit that changed him most, it was looking back and seeing Earth as one interconnected, fragile home. In this episode, Dr. Eiman Jahangir welcomes retired NASA astronaut, fighter pilot, author, and social entrepreneur Ron Garan for a conversation about the transformative power of perspective. Ron reflects on the journey that reignited his childhood dream of spaceflight, the unique experience of launching aboard both American and Russian spacecraft, and the profound shift in thinking that inspired his concept of The Orbital Perspective—the belief that humanity's greatest challenges can only be solved by learning to work together on a planetary scale. Ron and Eiman also explore the lessons of military service and leadership, the future of lunar exploration and commercial spaceflight, the importance of science-based decision-making, as well as Ron's work bringing clean water and renewable energy to underserved communities through social enterprise. From orbit to Earth, this conversation is a compelling reminder that changing the way we see the world may be the first step toward changing the world itself. Purchase your own copy of Ron’s newest book, Floating in Darkness, at https://go.aheartforspace.com/floatingindarkness 00:00 Welcome to A Heart for Space 02:34 The Dream Reawakens: From Business to Engineering 06:27 Flying F-16s in the Gulf War 11:55 Comparing the Shuttle and Soyuz: Two Paths to Orbit 16:09 Launching with Former Enemies: A Symbol of Cooperation 18:07 The Orbital Perspective: Seeing Earth as One Planet 20:49 Technology: Connecting and Dividing Us 22:52 Astronauts for America: Defending the Constitution 29:14 Bringing Clean Water to the World 33:24 Writing to Inspire: Three Books and a Sci-Fi Novel 40:59 The Future of Space: Moon Bases and Lunar Economy 46:42 The Space Still Worth Reaching For Discover more about Dr. Eiman Jahangir, and preorder your own copy of A Heart for Space, now at https://aheartforspace.com/

10. 

    24 Jul 2026

    Achieving the Impossible | Dr. Eiman Jahangir

    What does it take to pursue an impossible dream? In this special bonus episode, Dr. Eiman Jahangir reflects on the lessons that have shaped his own journey—from medicine and spaceflight to leadership, resilience, and innovation. Through personal stories and practical insights, he explores why setbacks and uncertainty are often the foundation of success, and why the courage to take the next step can change the course of your life. Whether you're a student, healthcare professional, leader, entrepreneur, or simply someone pursuing an ambitious goal, this short message offers encouragement to embrace challenges, stay curious, and recognize the strength being built throughout your journey. Book Dr. Jahangir for your next conference, keynote, leadership event, school guest speaker session, or educational program at https://www.eimanjahangir.com/speaking/

11. 

    21 Jul 2026

    The First Astronaut to Summit Everest | Scott Parazynski

    At age eight, Scott watched Apollo 9 launch from the surf off Cocoa Beach—and his course was set. Decades later, he would become the only person to have both flown in space and summited Mount Everest. In this episode, Dr. Eiman Jahangir sits down with Scott Parazynski—physician, retired NASA astronaut, and CEO of OnwardAir—for a conversation that spans five space missions, seven spacewalks, and two of the most demanding summits a human being can attempt. Scott opens up about the phone call that changed everything: being asked to fly alongside an American legend, and what it meant to become that person's crewmate, physician, and eventual friend. He goes on to share the story behind a dangerous repair mission, and what it felt like to be farther from the safety of the airlock than any astronaut before him, working on a live solar panel that could have ended everything. As the conversation continues, Scott also gets candid about the moment his dream was ripped away, pulled from a mission just months before launch, and how that setback led to a $45 million fix, a second chance, and a piece of the moon that ended up on the summit of Everest. That same rock led to something Scott never saw coming: meeting the woman who'd become his wife. Scott and Eiman go on to talk about the razor's edge between ambition and risk, why he chose emergency medicine as the ultimate training ground for space, the astronaut he quietly helped launch into his own career, and what still keeps him up at night solving problems, decades into a career most people would call complete. Order your own copy of Scott’s book, The Sky Below, at https://go.aheartforspace.com/theskybelow 00:00 Welcome to A Heart for Space 00:30 Meeting Scott Parazynski: Physician, Astronaut, and Explorer 02:34 Growing Up Abroad: From Tehran to Athens 06:54 A Childhood Shaped by Apollo: Watching the Launch at Age Eight 08:29 Taking Risks and Saying Yes: From Luge to Medical School 12:31 Choosing Between Two Callings: Medicine and Spaceflight 14:51 Mentoring Johnny Kim: Recognizing a Future Astronaut 19:11 Flying with a Legend: John Glenn's Return to Space 21:24 Too Tall for Soyuz: A Setback That Led to New Opportunities 24:53 The Most Dangerous Spacewalk: Repairing a Live Solar Array 29:13 Everest: The Dream, the Injury, and the Summit 32:21 How a Moon Rock Led to Love: Meeting His Wife 34:11 Comparing Extremes: Space vs. Everest 36:19 Into the Volcano: Descending into Masaya's Lava Lake 40:47 The Challenger Legacy: Honoring Loss Through Education 44:17 Staying Curious and Taking the First Step 47:14 Life Lessons from Jenna: The Power of Positivity 49:10 The Space Still Worth Reaching For: Innovation and Problem Solving Discover more about Dr. Eiman Jahangir, and preorder your own copy of A Heart for Space, now at https://aheartforspace.com/

12. 

    7 Jul 2026

    The Leap That Built TaskRabbit | Leah Solivan

    In today's episode, Dr. Eiman Jahangir is joined once more by his sister-in-law and TaskRabbit founder Leah Solivan to discuss the leap of faith that led to the platform's inception, and the unconventional path one must walk to risk being successful. Leah reflects on her decision to leave the stability of a successful career at IBM to pursue an idea she couldn't ignore. She shares the uncertainty of taking that leap, and how her mentors gave her the confidence and conviction she needed to transform TaskRabbit from a simple concept into one of the pioneering companies of the sharing economy. Eiman and Leah then explore the realities of building a business from the ground up, from investing her own savings and navigating imposter syndrome to pitching investors, overcoming rejection, and learning to trust her instincts. Looking beyond TaskRabbit, Leah shares how her passion has evolved into empowering the next generation of founders to take leaps of their own, offering a compelling reminder that pursuing ambitious goals isn't about having the perfect credentials—it's about developing the conviction to take the first step and believing in your ability to create something that has never existed before. 00:00 Welcome to A Heart for Space 02:07 The Leap from IBM: Leaving Stability Behind 06:27 Finding a Mentor: Meeting the CEO of Zipcar 09:11 Betting on Yourself: Funding TaskRabbit with a Pension 15:06 Being a Secret Agent: Navigating Identity as a Latina Founder 20:15 The Fundraising Gauntlet: 50 Pitches for One Yes 26:15 Building the Muscle of Conviction 28:35 From Dog Food to Soul Food: The Moment TaskRabbit Became Real 34:29 Advice for First-Generation Founders 36:21 The Space Still Worth Reaching For Discover more about Dr. Eiman Jahangir, and preorder your own copy of A Heart for Space, now at https://aheartforspace.com/

13. 

    23 Jun 2026

    Beyond the Limits of the Map | Richard Wiese

    This week on A Heart for Space, Dr. Eiman Jahangir embarks on an exploration of the power of curiosity, perseverance, and lifelong learning with explorer and former Explorers Club president Richard Wiese. Richard shares how a childhood filled with outdoor adventure and scientific curiosity helped shape a life dedicated to discovery. From climbing Mount Kilimanjaro at age eleven to producing award-winning television and leading one of the world's most renowned exploration organizations, he reflects on the unexpected turns, setbacks, and opportunities that defined his journey. Their conversation traverses the roles that confidence and resilience play in pursuing unconventional paths, the importance of becoming the author of your own story, and how some of life's greatest lessons come not from standing on the summit, but from learning how to recover when things don't go according to plan. Richard also offers a fascinating look inside The Explorers Club, sharing why he believes the future of exploration lies not only in discovering new places, but in discovering new perspectives by elevating diverse voices and fostering a deeper understanding of the world around us. 00:00 Welcome to A Heart for Space 00:32 Meeting Richard Wiese: Explorer and Television Host 02:22 Origin Story: From Immigrant Family to World Traveler 04:44 The Unexpected Turn: From Science Major to Model 06:16 Breaking Into Television and Finding His Voice 07:28 The Explorers Club and Meeting Childhood Heroes 08:02 Weekends with Yankee and Discovering Wonder Close to Home 09:36 The Power of Perseverance and Pulling Yourself Out 13:05 Confidence, Jealousy, and Being Your Own Advocate 15:40 The People Along the Way: Social Consciousness and Africa 17:55 Staying Relevant: Passion and Collaboration 19:51 The Magic of Tide Pooling and New England Wonders 22:03 What Is the Explorers Club and Why It Matters 23:29 The Future of Exploration: Diversity of Thought 26:56 Universal Languages: Food, Music, Art, and Nature 28:14 Facing Doubt and Reinventing Yourself 30:05 The Fury of Nature and Apprenticeship of Skills 32:18 Meeting People Where They Are 36:05 Space, the Overview Effect, and Going Back 38:18 The People Who Shaped Him: Family and Grandfather 39:49 The Space Still Reaching For: Family and Unexplored Places 41:25 Closing Thoughts and Invitation Discover more about Dr. Eiman Jahangir, and preorder your own copy of A Heart for Space, now at https://aheartforspace.com/

14. 

    9 Jun 2026

    From "You Can't" to World Record Holder | Jon Pritikin

    Dr. Eiman Jahangir is joined today by motivational speaker, author, and Guinness World Record holder Jon Pritikin to discuss the power of perseverance, self-worth, and the courage needed to move beyond the limitations others may place on us. Jon shares how growing up with speech and learning challenges led many people to underestimate his potential, including a teacher who told him he would never read, write, speak well, or graduate. Rather than allowing those words to define his future, Jon reflects on the people who helped him recognize his value, building up his confidence and empowering him to pursue a life of purpose. Their conversation explores the relationships and experiences that shaped Jon’s journey, from the teachers, friends, and family members who encouraged him along the way to the school assembly that inspired him to become a speaker. Jon also shares how feats of strength, including the Guinness World Record he set for rolling frying pans with his bare hands, became a unique platform for encouraging others to believe in themselves and their potential. To learn more about Jon visit: https://jonpritikin.org/ 00:00 Introduction and Opening Story 01:10 Growing Up with Learning Disabilities 03:37 A Teacher's Crushing Words 07:32 The People Who Changed Everything 14:27 Discovering Strength Training and Motivation 18:01 Building a Speaking Career 23:24 Powerful Moments on Stage 26:57 Guinness World Record Achievement 33:58 Battling Fear and Online Negativity 35:26 Perseverance and Perspective 45:29 The Calling to Reach North Korea 47:46 Closing Message of Hope Discover more about Dr. Eiman Jahangir, and preorder your own copy of A Heart for Space, now at https://aheartforspace.com/

15. 

    26 May 2026

    Seeing Earth from Orbit | Chris Sembroski

    In this episode of A Heart for Space, Dr. Eiman Jahangir sits down with Inspiration4 astronaut Chris Sembroski to discuss the life-changing experience of seeing Earth from space, the unexpected journey that led him there, and the deeper perspective he returned home with. Chris shares how a childhood fascination with rockets and astronomy eventually led him through the U.S. Air Force, aerospace engineering, Blue Origin, and ultimately into orbit aboard Inspiration4—the first all-civilian mission to space. Along the way, he reflects on the importance of curiosity, community, and staying open to unexpected opportunities. Their discussion explores the remarkable story behind Chris’s journey to space, and how a donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital unexpectedly became the catalyst for a phone call that would change his life forever. Chris also opens up about the deeper impact of spaceflight and the profound sense of connection that came from viewing Earth from orbit. From the Overview Effect to the responsibility of caring for one another on our shared planet, he shares how the experience reshaped his understanding of humanity. To learn more about Chris visit https://www.chrissembroski.com (https://www.chrissembroski.com) (00:18) Welcome to A Heart for Space (01:35) Life, Family, and Building Tow Trucks for Space (02:25) Chris’s Aerospace Career and Work on New Glenn (05:10) Childhood Curiosity, Rockets, and Astronomy (11:40) Advocating for Commercial Space Before It Was Mainstream (15:50) How Inspiration4 Came Into Chris’s Life (21:00) The Moment Chris Learned He Was Going to Space (28:30) Seeing Earth Differently After Spaceflight (35:40) Saying Yes to Opportunity and Staying Open to the Unknown (41:00) Community, Connection, and Telling People What You Love (48:20) The Overview Effect and Treating Humanity as One Crew Discover more about Dr. Eiman Jahangir, and preorder your own copy of A Heart for Space, now at https://aheartforspace.com/ (https://aheartforspace.com/)

16. 

    12 May 2026

    Chasing an Impossible Dream | Dr. Eiman Jahangir

    In today's episode of A Heart for Space, Dr. Eiman Jahangir is joined by his sister-in-law Leah Solivan as they engage in a deeply personal conversation about the experiences, relationships, and ambitions that have shaped Eiman's extraordinary journey. Moving beyond headlines and accomplishments, Eiman reflects on his upbringing as the child of immigrants and the early influences that drew him toward medicine, as well as his lifelong fascination with space that continued to pull at him even while building a demanding career in cardiology. The conversation explores the realities of life as a physician—from the emotional weight of patient care and the growing pressures contributing to burnout, to the deeply human moments that continue to make the work meaningful. Leah and Eiman then dive into the perseverance required to pursue a dream with no guaranteed path forward. After more than twenty years of trying to reach space, Eiman reflects on the emotional experience of finally launching aboard Blue Origin’s New Shepard with his family watching nearby—a moment that represented not only the significance of the achievement, but the years of persistence, uncertainty, and unwavering belief that made it possible. (00:19) Welcome to A Heart for Space (01:54) Who Is Eiman Jahangir? (03:13) Medicine, Family Expectations, and the Search for Stability (06:05) A Day in the Life of a Cardiologist (07:39) AI, Healthcare Systems, and the Future of Medicine (09:40) Patient Stories and the Human Side of Medicine (12:06) When Space Became a Real Goal (15:48) Launch Day and the People Waiting on Earth (17:45) Liftoff, Emotion, and Finally Reaching Space (22:55) Writing A Heart for Space (25:00) What Eiman Wants Readers to Take Away Discover more about Dr. Eiman Jahangir, and preorder your own copy of A Heart for Space, now at https://aheartforspace.com/ (https://aheartforspace.com/)

17. 

    28 Apr 2026

    A Heart for Space: the Origin Story

    In this debut episode of A Heart for Space, Dr. Eiman Jahangir introduces the story behind his book and subsequent podcast—and the journey that led him here. A cardiologist by profession and the 704th individual to travel to space, Dr. Jahangir has spent his life navigating two very different paths: one defined by structure, the other by uncertainty. In this opening conversation, he reflects on what it meant to pursue a lifelong dream without a clear roadmap, and the resilience required to keep moving forward in the face of setbacks, near-misses, and self-doubt. Dr. Jahangir also shares the pivotal moments that shaped the trajectory of his life—from his family’s immigration journey during the Iran-Iraq War to the experiences that followed his spaceflight, where conversations with audiences around the world revealed a common thread: many people are quietly pursuing ambitious goals of their own. This realization became the foundation for A Heart for Space, and the resulting exploration of the stories and mindsets of those who have pushed beyond conventional limits. This episode is both an introduction and an invitation into a series of conversations about perseverance and courage, revealing what it truly takes to pursue something extraordinary. (00:00) Opening Hook and Welcome to the Podcast (01:16) Cardiologist, Astronaut, Father, and Author (02:03) Chasing Two Difficult Dreams (02:47) Why He Started A Heart for Space (03:54) Why the Book Matters Too (05:05) The Astronauts Featured in the Book (06:12) Reading from Chapter One: From Iran to Tennessee (09:09) Final Thoughts and Invitation to Follow the Journey Discover more about Dr. Eiman Jahangir, and preorder your own copy of A Heart for Space, now at https://aheartforspace.com/ (https://aheartforspace.com/)

18. 

    22 Apr 2026

    A Heart for Space - The Trailer

    Welcome to A Heart for Space, a podcast hosted by cardiologist, astronaut, and speaker Dr. Eiman Jahangir that explores the journeys of those who push beyond conventional limits to inspire you to pursue your own extraordinary dreams. Drawing from his own path—from immigrating to the United States as a young child to pursuing the astronaut dream for more than two decades—Dr. Jahangir leads thoughtful conversations with remarkable guests about perseverance, ambition, and the mindset required to achieve meaningful goals. Blending personal storytelling with practical insight, A Heart for Space invites you to strap in as we embark on this adventure beyond the stars, exploring what it truly takes to turn possibility into tangible reality. For more information visit https://aheartforspace.com/ (https://aheartforspace.com/)

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

4.8 / 5

9 ratings

Contact A Heart For Space

Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.