Space Insiders is your bi-weekly deep dive into the intersection of space, cloud technologies, and entrepreneurship. Hosted by Tony Sewell and Rob Ruyak, both seasoned space-tech executives, this podcast features candid conversations with founders, investors, and entrepreneurs shaping the future beyond Earth. Whether you're launching a startup, investing in innovation, or just space-curious, Space Insiders gives you the behind-the-scenes insights you won’t hear anywhere else.
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Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any organization or employer.
#23: Engineering with Purpose - Mike Morris, Sitomni
In this insightful interview, Mike Morris, president of Sitomni, shares the company's unique cultural foundation rooted in Lakota virtues, its innovative work in space software and cybersecurity, and the challenges and opportunities of leading a small business in the space industry. Discover how culture, technology, and strategic growth intersect in the evolving space sector.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Space Insiders
01:39 Interview with Mike Morris: The Origin of Satomni
03:07 Introduction and Overview of the Conversation
03:17 The Story Behind Sitomni's Name and Values
10:18 Sitomni's Business Model and Areas of Expertise
15:53 Cybersecurity Challenges in the Space Industry
23:46 Transitioning from a Large Company to a Small Business
26:29 Challenges of Running a Small Company
29:40 Navigating Company Transitions and Acquisitions
31:53 Growing a Business in a Competitive Environment
34:43 Company Culture and Employee Retention
39:23 Personal Aspirations Beyond Business
Sitomni
LinkedIn (Mike Morris) (https://www.linkedin.com/in/c-michael-morris/)
Sitomni (https://sitomni.com/)
Space Insiders Team
Email: info@spaceinsiders.show
LinkedIn (Show) (https://www.linkedin.com/company/space-insiders-show)
LinkedIn (Tony) (https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonysewell1)
LinkedIn (Rob) (https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-ruyak-4134a2/)
Disclaimer
The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any organization or employer.
3 Feb 2026
Space sustainability, and the business of preserving the next frontier
Summary
In this conversation, Chris Blackerby, COO of Astroscale, discusses the critical importance of space sustainability and the company's mission to address space debris and promote long-term sustainability in orbit. He shares insights on the technological advancements Astroscale is making, the growing awareness in the industry, and the unique cultural aspects of Japan that have influenced the company's development. The discussion also touches on the challenges faced by the space industry, the geopolitical landscape, and the future of space sustainability.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Space Sustainability
01:12 Astroscale's Mission and Technology
03:56 Industry Awareness and Engagement
12:58 Chris Blackerby's Journey to Astroscale
19:58 Japan's Unique Role in Space Sustainability
26:48 Cultural Insights from Japan
27:59 Astroscale's Journey in Sustainability
30:40 Geopolitical Challenges in Space
34:40 Balancing Development and Sustainability
37:16 Innovative Business Models for Sustainability
39:42 The Need for Urgent Action in Space
47:01 Exciting Developments at Astroscale
50:42 Life in Japan: Surprises and Kindness
Astroscale
LinkedIn (Chris Blackerby) (https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-blackerby-0111695/)
Astroscale (https://www.astroscale.com/en)
Space Insiders Team
Email: info@spaceinsiders.show
LinkedIn (Show) (https://www.linkedin.com/company/space-insiders-show)
LinkedIn (Tony) (https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonysewell1)
LinkedIn (Rob) (https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-ruyak-4134a2/)
Disclaimer
The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any organization or employer.
20 Jan 2026
Is culture the only competitive advantage that matters?
Hosts Tony Sewell and Rob Ruyak reflect on past Space Insiders interviews, exploring how empathy, collaboration, and humility drive leadership and culture within the space industry.
Who has been a guest on Space Insiders
Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.
Nadine Alameh
Carsten Drachmann
Patrick Johnson
Avi Shabtai
Alvaro Alonso Ruiz
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
YouTube views
381
Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
5 ratings
Spotify
5.0 / 5
4 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 57 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
75
Social presence
0
YouTube
66
Engagement
32
Contact Space Insiders
Guest appearances
Books guests
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