Space Insiders

Tony Sewell and Rob Ruyak
  • 5.0 (5)
  • ENTREPRENEURSHIP

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. New episodes drop every two weeks. Subscribe now and join the orbit! 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.

  1. Space sustainability, and the business of preserving the next frontier

    FEB 3

    Space sustainability, and the business of preserving the next frontier

    SummaryIn 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. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Space Sustainability01:12 Astroscale's Mission and Technology03:56 Industry Awareness and Engagement12:58 Chris Blackerby's Journey to Astroscale19:58 Japan's Unique Role in Space Sustainability26:48 Cultural Insights from Japan27:59 Astroscale's Journey in Sustainability30:40 Geopolitical Challenges in Space34:40 Balancing Development and Sustainability37:16 Innovative Business Models for Sustainability39:42 The Need for Urgent Action in Space47:01 Exciting Developments at Astroscale50:42 Life in Japan: Surprises and Kindness AstroscaleLinkedIn (Chris Blackerby)AstroscaleSpace Insiders TeamEmail: info@spaceinsiders.showLinkedIn (Show)LinkedIn (Tony)LinkedIn (Rob) DisclaimerThe 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.

    1h 2m
  2. Is culture the only competitive advantage that matters?

    JAN 20

    Is culture the only competitive advantage that matters?

    SummaryIn this episode of Space Insiders, hosts Tony Sewell and Rob Ruyak reflect on their past interviews, focusing on the themes of leadership and culture within the space industry. They discuss the importance of empathy in leadership, emphasizing that it is not merely a soft skill but a strategic advantage that can foster a positive work environment. The conversation highlights insights from various guests, including Kevin Steen and Carsten Drachmann, who stress the significance of understanding team dynamics and the necessity of creating a culture that values collaboration and innovation. The hosts also touch on the challenges of leading in uncertain times and the need for humility and self-awareness in decision-making. Chapters00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates02:02 Retrospective on Leadership and Culture05:26 The Importance of Empathy in Leadership16:11 Insights from Kevin Steen on Leadership27:06 Cultural Challenges in the Space Industry31:33 The Uniqueness of Company Culture32:44 Intentional Leadership and Accountability39:27 Lessons from Military Leadership45:29 The Importance of Humility in Leadership49:12 Embracing Diverse Perspectives53:12 Courage in Decision Making Space Insiders TeamEmail: info@spaceinsiders.showLinkedIn (Show)LinkedIn (Tony)LinkedIn (Rob) DisclaimerThe 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.

    1h 8m
  3. From legacy to launch - 2025 Reflections on software, data, and funding

    JAN 6

    From legacy to launch - 2025 Reflections on software, data, and funding

    SummaryIn this conversation, Tony and Rob reflect on their experiences from interviews over the past year, discussing key themes such as the software revolution, the data revolution, and the challenges of navigating the capital landscape. They highlight the importance of entrepreneurship, sustainability, and the need for global collaboration in the evolving space market. The discussion also emphasizes the significance of execution and understanding customer needs in building successful space ventures. Chapters00:00 New Beginnings and Reflections04:19 The Software Revolution in Space19:13 The Data Revolution and Non-Earth Imaging27:21 Challenges and Innovations in Space Startups29:29 Global Collaboration and Data Democratization in Space34:12 The Role of Standards in Geospatial Data40:18 Funding Challenges in the Space Industry48:23 Execution and International Business in Space52:35 Customer Orientation and Problem Solving in Space Ventures Space Insiders TeamEmail: info@spaceinsiders.showLinkedIn (Show)LinkedIn (Tony)LinkedIn (Rob) DisclaimerThe 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.

    58 min
  4. How you you lead a Geospatial Revolution? Nadine Alameh

    12/16/2025

    How you you lead a Geospatial Revolution? Nadine Alameh

    SummaryIn this conversation, Nadine Alameh, the first female CEO of the Open Geospatial Consortium, shares her journey into the geospatial field and discusses the transformative impact of AI on geospatial technology. The discussion covers the importance of standards and interoperability in disaster response, the role of startups in driving innovation, and the key skills needed for future professionals in the geospatial sector. Nadine also highlights the policy challenges facing the industry and her mission with her new venture to help governments and startups leverage geospatial data effectively. Chapters00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates02:22 Curiosity and Learning in the Digital Age05:23 Spotlight on Nadine Alame08:14 SpaceX Developments and Industry News09:12 Introduction to the Podcast and Its Goals09:12 Nadine Alame's Journey into Geospatial15:26 The Role of the Open Geospatial Consortium19:35 Real-World Applications of Geospatial Standards24:48 The Impact of AI on Geospatial Standards28:37 Exciting Opportunities in Startups and Technology32:16 The Evolution of Skills in Geospatial Entrepreneurship39:43 Navigating the Challenges of Geospatial Modernization45:16 Policy Challenges and Opportunities in Geospatial48:28 Mapping the Future: Aspirations Beyond Earth Lunate.aiLinkedIn (Nadine Alameh)LunateAISpace Insiders TeamEmail: info@spaceinsiders.showLinkedIn (Show)LinkedIn (Tony)LinkedIn (Rob) DisclaimerThe 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.

    53 min
  5. What does it take to turnaround a space company to 10x growth? With Carsten Drachmann, GOMSpace

    12/02/2025

    What does it take to turnaround a space company to 10x growth? With Carsten Drachmann, GOMSpace

    SummaryIn this conversation, Carsten Drachmann, CEO of GOM Space, shares insights on leadership, the importance of people in business, and the evolving landscape of the space industry. He discusses the strategic shifts within GOM Space, focusing on customer-centric solutions and the growing market for small satellites. Carsten emphasizes the need for agility in smaller companies and the importance of building trust with customers. He also reflects on the challenges and opportunities in the global market, particularly in the U.S. and emerging regions. Chapters00:00 Introduction to GOM Space and Carsten Drachmann11:00 Leadership and Turnaround Strategies14:21 Building Trust and Company Culture17:05 Market Focus and Strategic Changes19:57 Navigating Global Markets and Competition22:57 Opportunities in Southeast Asia and the US26:03 Customer-Centric Solutions in Space Technology31:03 Customer-Centric Strategies in Business33:48 Evolving Business Models in the Space Industry40:11 Future Growth and Strategic Vision for GOM Space43:39 Cultural Insights and Personal Reflections in the Space Sector GOMSpaceLinkedIn (Carsten Drachmann)GOMSpaceGomSpace Group (GOMX), NASDAQSpace Insiders TeamEmail: info@spaceinsiders.showLinkedIn (Show)LinkedIn (Tony)LinkedIn (Rob) DisclaimerThe 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.

    50 min
  6. How should founders think about alternate funding? Patrick Johnson, Silicon Valley Bank

    11/18/2025

    How should founders think about alternate funding? Patrick Johnson, Silicon Valley Bank

    SummaryIn this conversation, Patrick Johnson, managing director at Silicon Valley Bank, shares insights into his role in supporting startups, his career journey, and the unique challenges faced by the startup ecosystem, particularly in the space industry. He emphasizes the importance of building partnerships, asking for help, and the evolving landscape of funding strategies for startups. Patrick also discusses the significance of mentorship and the dynamics of startup ecosystems, providing valuable advice for founders navigating their entrepreneurial journeys. Chapters00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates03:11 Interview with Patrick Johnson06:09 Industry News and Developments07:09 Patrick Johnson's Role at Silicon Valley Bank16:34 Career Journey and Transition to Startups22:25 Funding Options for Startups23:31 The Shift in Funding Dynamics24:19 Unique Challenges in the Space Industry26:23 Communicating Your Startup's Value Proposition26:47 Building Relationships in the Startup Ecosystem28:14 Key Metrics for Startup Success29:33 Current Climate for Startup Funding31:22 The AI Investment Boom33:29 Emerging Trends in Space and Defense Tech36:23 Building Effective Ecosystems for Startups36:48 Advice for Startup Founders40:19 Underappreciated Resources for Founders42:24 The Importance of Mentorship46:38 Conclusion and Future Endeavors47:04 Favorite Movies About Banking Silicon Valley BankLinkedIn (Patrick Johnson)Silicon Valley BankSpace Insiders TeamEmail: info@spaceinsiders.showLinkedIn (Show)LinkedIn (Tony)LinkedIn (Rob) DisclaimerThe 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.

    53 min
  7. Are we ready for space data centers? - Avi Shabtai, Ramon Space

    11/04/2025

    Are we ready for space data centers? - Avi Shabtai, Ramon Space

    SummaryIn this conversation, Avi Shabtai, CEO of Ramon Space, discusses the evolution of the company and the broader space industry. He highlights the importance of innovation, resilience, and strategic global expansion in the tech sector, particularly in Israel. The discussion covers the shift towards data-driven space operations, the challenges of building infrastructure in orbit, and the future potential of space data centers. Avi emphasizes the need for a mindset that embraces risk and unconstrained thinking to drive innovation. Chapters03:02 The Journey of Ramon Space05:29 Unconstrained Thinking in Leadership05:40 The Evolution of Ramon Space08:08 Israel's Innovation Ecosystem10:58 Global Expansion Strategies13:56 Data Centers in Space16:53 Technical Challenges and Future Outlook27:29 The Future of Satellite Technology29:18 Overcoming Industry Challenges31:29 Innovative Companies in Space34:31 Potential Applications of Space Infrastructure38:21 The Mindset of Innovation42:32 Vision for the Future of Ramon Space Ramon SpaceLinkedIn (Avi Shabtai)Ramon SpaceSpace Insiders TeamEmail: info@spaceinsiders.showLinkedIn (Show)LinkedIn (Tony)LinkedIn (Rob) DisclaimerThe 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.

    48 min
  8. F1 to Orbit - The race to digitize space

    10/21/2025

    F1 to Orbit - The race to digitize space

    SummaryIn this conversation, Tony Sewell and Rob Ruyak engage with Alvaro Alonso Ruiz, co-founder of LeanSpace, discussing the evolution of the space industry, the challenges posed by legacy systems, and the importance of software innovation. Alvaro shares insights on the cultural and operational diversity within the industry, the transition from traditional to modern software solutions, and the entrepreneurial journey of LeanSpace. The discussion highlights the need for modernization in space operations, the role of new space companies, and the impact of global events on business models. Alvaro emphasizes the importance of education in the space sector and the potential for software to drive significant change in the industry. Chapters00:00 Alvaro Ruiz's Journey to LeanSpace18:18 The State of the Space Industry25:34 LeanSpace's Innovative Approach31:37 Challenges in the Space Software Market40:11 Future Opportunities for LeanSpace Alvaro Alonso RuizLinkedIn (Alvaro)LeanspaceSpace Insiders TeamEmail: info@spaceinsiders.showLinkedIn (Show)LinkedIn (Tony)LinkedIn (Rob) DisclaimerThe 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.

    50 min
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Ratings & Reviews

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out of 5
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About

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. New episodes drop every two weeks. Subscribe now and join the orbit! 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.

Information

  • Creator
    Tony Sewell and Rob Ruyak
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    23
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    ©️ 2025 Space Insiders Show
  • Show Website
    Space Insiders