
247: Defending Space Through Storytelling with Stuart Hardwick
10/04/24 • 66 min
Award-winning science fiction author and friend of the show Stuart Hardwick returns to share the story behind his latest work, Tales of the United States Space Force and his passion for space defense and storytelling.
Happy WORLD SPACE WEEK! https://www.worldspaceweek.org/
We’re celebrating World Space Week with our partners, Cosmic Girls and their INCREDIBLE Space Competition announcement you DO NOT want to miss: https://www.cosmicgirls.org/
In this episode, Stuart & Beth discuss the critical importance of space defense and how science fiction plays a role in educating the public about the future of space exploration. Can fictional stories dispel misconceptions about America’s newest military service branch, the United States Space Force? Listen to hear the answer to this question, the challenges of space militarization, the role of satellites in our economy, and why protecting our presence in space is more critical now than ever.
About Stuart Hardwick: Stuart Hardwick is an award-winning science fiction author and editor passionate about blending fiction and fact to bring important topics to light. Having grown up in an Air Force family during the Apollo era, Stuart has always been fascinated by space and its role in shaping our world. His latest project, Tales of the United States Space Force, is a groundbreaking anthology that combines science fiction stories with factual articles to illustrate the need for space defense while dispelling myths about the Space Force. His work reminds listeners and readers alike that space is vital to our economy and everyday life—and must be defended.
Learn more and get a free ebook sampler at:
If you enjoyed this episode and would like to share, I’d love to hear it!
You can follow and share in the socials,
LinkedIn - @casualspacepodcast
Facebook - @casualspacepodcast
Instagram - @casualspacepodcast
YouTube - @casualspacepodcast83
or email me at [email protected].
*Remember!!! You can send your story to space TODAY! The window for STORIES of Space Mission 03 is NOW OPEN! Send your story, for free, to www.storiesofspace.com
Award-winning science fiction author and friend of the show Stuart Hardwick returns to share the story behind his latest work, Tales of the United States Space Force and his passion for space defense and storytelling.
Happy WORLD SPACE WEEK! https://www.worldspaceweek.org/
We’re celebrating World Space Week with our partners, Cosmic Girls and their INCREDIBLE Space Competition announcement you DO NOT want to miss: https://www.cosmicgirls.org/
In this episode, Stuart & Beth discuss the critical importance of space defense and how science fiction plays a role in educating the public about the future of space exploration. Can fictional stories dispel misconceptions about America’s newest military service branch, the United States Space Force? Listen to hear the answer to this question, the challenges of space militarization, the role of satellites in our economy, and why protecting our presence in space is more critical now than ever.
About Stuart Hardwick: Stuart Hardwick is an award-winning science fiction author and editor passionate about blending fiction and fact to bring important topics to light. Having grown up in an Air Force family during the Apollo era, Stuart has always been fascinated by space and its role in shaping our world. His latest project, Tales of the United States Space Force, is a groundbreaking anthology that combines science fiction stories with factual articles to illustrate the need for space defense while dispelling myths about the Space Force. His work reminds listeners and readers alike that space is vital to our economy and everyday life—and must be defended.
Learn more and get a free ebook sampler at:
If you enjoyed this episode and would like to share, I’d love to hear it!
You can follow and share in the socials,
LinkedIn - @casualspacepodcast
Facebook - @casualspacepodcast
Instagram - @casualspacepodcast
YouTube - @casualspacepodcast83
or email me at [email protected].
*Remember!!! You can send your story to space TODAY! The window for STORIES of Space Mission 03 is NOW OPEN! Send your story, for free, to www.storiesofspace.com
Previous Episode

246: From Space Camp to Space Force with Col. Heather Bogstie
Welcome our first ever US Space Force guest Col. Heather Bogstie!
Col. Heather Bogstie shares her journey from attending Space Camp as a young girl to becoming a key leader in the newly established United States Space Force. Together, Beth and Heather walk through Heather’s inspiring career path, her experiences as a missile operator, and her transition into the Space Force. Heather shares personal stories from her time at Space Camp, the critical role of the Space Force in national security, the evolving landscape of space operations, and the importance of encouraging the next generation of women in STEM.
Col. Bogstie’s Message to Listeners:
"There are lots of careers in space; the defense industrial base for space is strong and evolving, offering many opportunities to be a part of this space renaissance. Consider joining the Space Force! Service began for a reason, and I’m so glad I could complement my passion for space with serving my country and protecting our freedom."
About Col. Heather Bogstie:
Col. Heather Bogstie serves as a leader in the United States Space Force, where she works on protecting the nation's interests in space. With a background in electrical engineering and a career that spans from missile operations to space acquisitions, Heather’s expertise and dedication have made her a pivotal figure in the Space Force. Her passion for space began at Space Camp, and she has since dedicated her life to advancing space operations and inspiring others. Follow Heather’s journey and learn more about her impactful work at Space Force.
Learn more and connect with Col. Heather Bogstie:
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-bogstie-12818b96/
- SSC: https://www.facebook.com/SpaceSystemsCommand?mibextid=LQQJ4d
- USSF: https://www.facebook.com/SpaceForceDoD?mibextid=LQQJ4d
If you enjoyed this episode and would like to share, I’d love to hear it!
You can follow and share in the socials,
LinkedIn - @casualspacepodcast
Facebook - @casualspacepodcast
Instagram - @casualspacepodcast
YouTube - @casualspacepodcast83
or email me at [email protected].
*Remember!!! You can send your story to space TODAY! The window for STORIES of Space Mission 03 is NOW OPEN! Send your story, for free, to www.storiesofspace.com
Next Episode

248: Scott Holcomb: From Space Camp to the Classroom
Beth welcomes movie star and educator, Scott Holcomb! Scott shares his remarkable story from his surprise audition to his role in the industry CLASSIC film, Space Camp, and how it led him to a meaningful career in education. Through humorous anecdotes and heartfelt reflections, Scott discusses the impact Space Camp (the movie AND the experience) has had on his life and how he’s inspiring the next generation to dream big. Tune in for behind-the-scenes tales from Space Camp, the joy of rekindling childhood wonder, and insights into fostering curiosity in today's students.
Scott shares his hilarious story about how he got a role in Space Camp and talks about his fantastic six years at the Space and Rocket Center, how his love for Space Camp inspired him to become an educator and encourage the new generation to stay curious and dream big. His passion shines through for expanding the Space Camp alumni network, especially among teachers, to keep that spark alive for future campers. About Scott Holcomb:
Scott Holcomb is a lifelong educator, former Space Camp cast member, and self-proclaimed “nerd extraordinaire.” His journey began with a surprise role in the Space Camp movie, a serendipitous experience that ignited his passion for inspiring young minds. After working for several years at the Space and Rocket Center, Scott found his true calling in education. Today, he’s an elementary school teacher who brings his love for space, science, and tech to the classroom, encouraging his students to embrace curiosity and explore their potential. Scott is also dedicated to fostering a sense of community among Space Camp alumni and actively works to connect educators with the program.
Connect with Scott:
- Twitter/X: @HideoTakamini
- Instagram: @hideotakamini
- Space Camp Alumni Chapter: Learn more about Scott’s work with the Space Camp alumni network at SpaceCamp.com.
- If you want to join a budding new Memphis, TN area Space Camp Alumni Chapter, email Scott at: [email protected]
Speaking of Movies... watch Scott in Space Camp the movie https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VH-WKqWsibs and see Beth in the trailer, and the movie, Alcohol in Space https://vimeo.com/792808522
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