Down to Earth with Terry Virts

EPD 87: Election Expert Ben Jones, Disinformation Challenges, and the Influence of China and Russia Jun 01, 2023

Join host Terry Verch in "Down to Earth" as he engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Ben Jones, a prominent freelance election expert and advisor to leading election observation organizations. In this episode, they delve into the world of elections, disinformation challenges, and the growing influence of China and Russia. With firsthand experience from election missions and a deep understanding of the impact of technology and online information, Ben shares valuable insights on the importance of running elections ethically and the consequences of misinformation. Discover how these global forces shape our societies and explore the crucial role of independent journalism in combating disinformation. Gain a fresh perspective on the complex dynamics at play as they discuss strategies to protect democratic systems and promote informed decision-making in an era of evolving challenges. https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 86: Uncovering the Origins of COVID-19: A Scientific Investigation Apr 18, 2023

In this episode: Nicholas Wade is a science journalist who has written for publications such as the New York Times, Nature, and Science throughout his more than four-decade career. Wade recently testified about the lab leak hypothesis to the House Select Subcommittee on Coronavirus Pandemic and recommends listening to that testimony. The origin of the coronavirus became politicized from the beginning, but it should be a purely scientific issue that people of all political affiliations would want to understand. The theory behind gain-of-function research is that scientists can get ahead of nature by studying deadly viruses and creating vaccines to prepare for potential outbreaks in the future. https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 85: The Oil and Gas Industry: Understanding the Value Chain | Down to Earth Podcast Mar 29, 2023

In this episode, we have Robert Auers, a refinery modeller and refined fuels market analyst at RBN Energy, to shed light on the value chain and technical complexities involved in the industry. Join us as we delve into the upstream, midstream, and downstream processes of the oil and gas industry, including the production methods, used to extract oil and gas from the ground. We also discuss the importance of understanding the value chain, as it affects the prices of various products in the market. In addition, we touch on the topic of NGLs, or natural gas liquids, which are an important component of the industry. These liquids are more valuable than natural gas but less valuable than crude oil, and their processing involves technical complexities such as removing sulfur from the products and reducing its specification. Tune in to this episode to gain insights into the oil and gas industry and its technicalities, and to learn about the challenges and opportunities it presents. Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 84: To Infinity and Beyond? Examining the Pros and Cons of a Martian Future Mar 14, 2023

In this podcast episode, Terry engages in a lively debate with Maciej Ceglowski about whether or not humans should venture to Mars. They discuss the biggest obstacles and challenges that we would face in making such a journey, along with other related questions. Tune in to hear their insightful perspectives and arguments. Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 83: Inside Ukraine: A Former SAS Soldier's Perspective Feb 27, 2023

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Robin Horsfall, a man who has truly lived a life like no other. Robin's incredible journey has taken him from the British SAS to a successful career in private security, but that's only the beginning. As a black belt in karate, Robin has faced countless challenges and overcome them all with strength and determination. He is also a cancer survivor and an advocate for living life to the fullest. In addition to all of this, Robin is a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Don't miss this opportunity to hear from a true hero and learn about his amazing life. https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 82: How Ukraine is making progress in the war through digital transformation & the use of drones Feb 15, 2023

Jaanika Merilo is an advisor to Ukraine’s Deputy Prime Minister for digital transformation, the former deputy mayor of Dnipro in Ukraine, and a strong advocate of helping the Ukrainian war effort by fundraising for privately donated drones. She is also helping to organize a campaign to bring World Expo 2030 to Odessa. Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 81: How do US military generals integrate ethics into strategy? Feb 02, 2023

Terry talks with George “Saul” Youstra, a former US Army Green Beret and US Air Force Chaplain, including being chaplain to 9 four-star generals and the US Chief of Staff. https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 80: Will AI robots take over the world? Jan 26, 2023

Mark and Terry talk AI, Robotics, energy, and the future of technology. https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 79: An insurance policy for the 2024 Presidential election? Jan 12, 2023

Terry talks to Ryan Clancy from No Labels “Ryan Clancy, chief strategist for No Labels, talks about some unique and innovative ways to save our political system from the extreme left and right, and what might be done to give Americans a viable, centrist candidate in the 2024 presidential election without starting a completely new third party." https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 78: What is the Eurovision Song Contest? Dec 14, 2022

Terry talks to Stig Karlsen, the head of the Norwegian delegation to Eurovision, to find out. Stig Karlsen is the lead for the Norwegian delegation to the Eurovision Song Contest, one of the biggest television events on Earth. We talk about what Eurovision is, why it is so important to so many Europeans, how England will be hosting the event this year on behalf of Ukraine, who won last year, and what it takes to put together such a massive production on a global scale. https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 77: Will sanity ever return to American politics? Dec 08, 2022

What is the future of the Republican Party? Is DeSantis their saviour? Will sanity ever return to American politics? All this and more with Ron Filipkowski. https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 76: Talking all things geophysics with Dr. Hunter Knox Nov 29, 2022

“Volcanoes in Antarctica? Getting energy from deep under the Earth’s surface? No problem. Talking all things geophysics with Dr. Hunter Knox." Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 75: Discussing the war in Ukraine with former NATO commander and USAF General Phil Breedlove Nov 16, 2022

Retired NATO commander and US Air Force General Breedlove joins me today as we focus on the Ukraine war and the difference between how Russia and the West wage war. “Combined force and joint warfare are used by NATO, but the Russians still fight in a crude way,” says Breedlove, “in an attrition-based, demonstrative way.” “Russians came into the war in a disassociated, disconnected network,” says Breedlove. We talk through tactics, the progression of the war, weapons, sanctions, and how Russia has regrouped and attacked in the wake of the recent events. Breedlove talks us through how he believes, in his expert opinion, Ukraine can withstand the invasion, “if the west continues to supply Ukraine in the way they deserve” they have a very clear path to victory. An eye-opening, and very interesting discussion over the invasion, and a great perspective on the events from a NATO and Air Force expert, thank you so much for joining us, Phil. https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 74: What’s more important- the price of a gallon of gas, or a functioning democracy? Nov 07, 2022

“What’s more important- the price of a gallon of gas, or a functioning democracy? It’s the DTE midterm issue" Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 73: What does all that space debris zooming around Earth look like? Nov 03, 2022

What does all that space debris zooming around Earth look like? Former NASA astronaut Ed Lu explains how his new company, LeoLabs, is making space a safer place, by tracking all of that junk, and helping companies like SpaceX manoeuvre their satellites to avoid debris-causing explosions in orbit. Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 72: Dragon v Dragon air-to-air combat from House of the Dragon Oct 27, 2022

Terry Virts breaks down the dragon air-to-air combat seen in “house of the dragon” from a test pilot and fighter pilot's perspective. Courtesy of HBO All images used for this video are from the tv show House of the Dragon by HBO Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 71: What’s it like to fly the world’s most advanced fighter jet? Oct 21, 2022

What’s it like to fly the world’s most advanced fighter jet? How can aeroplanes prevent crashes, even if the pilot is unconscious? Why is the Air Force better than the Navy? This and more with fighter pilot/test pilot Billie Flynn. Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry In partnership with: https://evaintmedia.com/

EPS 70: Terry talks with Adam Frisch Oct 13, 2022

Terry talks with Adam Frisch, who’s running in a dead heat against one of the biggest MAGA Republicans in the country, Lauren Boebert. Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 69: How do journalists get scoops? with Mark Jacob Oct 04, 2022

Should they treat the right and left equally? How can we save democracy? These are just some of the topics that we discuss with former Chicago Tribune editor Mark Jacob. https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 68: The story of Hvaldimir, the Spy Whale Sep 22, 2022

Regina Crosby, a conversationist and founder of the One Whale charity, joins me to talk about all things whale and marine mammals. For example - the Beluga in Hammerfest, in the North of Norway, that lives in the marina, often returning phones people drop into the water! She has a plan to return him to the wild - but being raised as a captive whale, this isn't straightforward. We cover whale intelligence, spy whales and so much more. A unique episode, thanks for coming on Regina! https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 67: What is happening in Space? Sep 09, 2022

What is happening in Space? Will the Artemis program take us back to the Moon? Should we be cooperating with Russia? Are there fish in Europa’s oceans? And what about all that space junk? All this and more in Terry’s conversation with Time magazine’s Jeffrey Kluger. https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 66: Gun Laws Down Under – is Australian policy more effective? Aug 25, 2022

Steve James joins me in today’s episode – Steve is a former inspector of Police for Victoria and was Ministerial Adviser for Drug Policy for Australia and New Zealand Government for 11 years, who is currently enjoying retirement. He has a fascinating background, joining a cadet programme at age 15, following crime from the early days, moving onto drug expertise, explosives and organised crime. We have a thought-provoking debate on the pros and cons of gun law in Australia and the US, and we discuss the research behind mass shootings, and how potentially unreliable facts and figures can be manipulated to create misconceptions around mass shootings. A fascinating comparison of two very different geographies with some striking differences and similarities. A great episode for anyone interested in international gun law. Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 65: What’s the whackiest science story ever? (Joe Palca, an NPR science reporter) Aug 18, 2022

What’s the whackiest science story ever? How about the OJ chase upending Al Gore and the Space Station? Heir’s 30 years of science reporting adventures from NPR’s own Joe Palca. https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 64: Are electric cars and solar panels making us completely dependent on China? Aug 11, 2022

We are moving towards electric vehicles and wind & solar power make us wholly dependent on China. Is it even possible to build the number of EVs that are being promised today? And how do we get gas prices back down to Earth? Get the answer to these questions and more with Mark Mills.

EPS 63: Can Russia win in Ukraine? Aug 03, 2022

Will Russia win in Ukraine? How can the West defeat their militarily? Why does Putin think he’s a modern-day Peter the Great? Best-selling author and Washington Post columnist Max Boot discusses these questions and more. https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 62: Dark matter, the early universe and galaxy formation with Dr Katie Mack. Jul 14, 2022

Katie joins me for the third time to cover the Large Hadron Collider, and how its third run investigates the fundamental physics of the universe. Katie explains all about the collider giving us a layperson's introduction and delving into some of the big questions and aims of the new project. The new run for 3 years of data collection, collecting more data than all previous experiments. Will they find new particles, higher dimensions of space? A fantastic episode, sure to stretch your mind and teach you something about space. Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 61: Texas politics: how bad can it get? Jun 30, 2022

Pretty bad, y'all. The Texas Republican party’s recently approved platform has gone too far in trying to turn government into a religious institution and is a direct threat to democracy. The platform, really a "manifesto," includes these gems: encouraging Texans to secede from the Union with a ballot initiative in 2023. Proclaiming gun rights to be given from God, and that Texas should have no gun-free zones anywhere in the state. Proclaiming that homosexuality is an immoral lifestyle choice, abandoning most LGBT and all abortion rights. Defunding and abolishing almost all taxes, education regulations, and most government agencies including the EPA, Department of Energy, and even NASA. Explicitly limiting voting rights in a very racist way, including abolishing the 1965 Voting Rights Act. And the granddaddy of them all, the “big lie,” proclaiming the 2020 election invalid and Joe Biden an illegitimate “acting President.” Follow along as we talk through the Texas GOP’s greatest hits. Texas deserves better, because America needs a legitimate alternative to the Democratic party, and today's GOP is not that. At least not in the Lonestar State. https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 60: Batter up; Jeff Conine on becoming a baseball legend Jun 22, 2022

Terry is joined today by baseball legend Jeff Conine, who gives us a rundown of his baseball career, which oddly enough, began with racquetball - going from pitcher to batter, from championships to major leagues. They cover everything about American college, sports scholarships, wins, losses, friends, teams, managers, parents, to the best showers in the league and the worst pitches to play on. Eva International Media Ltd https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 59: From Russia With Love Jun 15, 2022

Melani Robinson, writer for NY Times, Huffington Post and creator of several scripted TV series. She is currently working on a memoir of her experience in Russia and chats to Terry about this modern love story, in which she moves to Russia as a newlywed with her husband for his work. Join Terry and Melani as they chat and compare their experiences living in Russia; – from Las Vegas to southern Russian casinos – from the Russian and Italian mob to the KGB – from Russian grocery shopping to ordering Russian McDonald – from antique dealers to taxi drivers A fascinating glimpse into Russian life 15 years ago told by a brilliant storyteller. Eva International Media Ltd https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 58: Slava Ukraine Jun 09, 2022

Terry speaks with Major General Dmytro Marchenko on the invasion of Ukraine. We hear from General Marchenko on his views of the Ukrainian army and how united and strong they are in the face of the Russian invasion. Despite Russia having such a large force behind them, their fatalities far out way that of the Ukrainian army. The General tells us his views on the invasion, discusses the Russian violence towards civilians and sets the record straight on some Russian propaganda. He believes they can finish the war by the summer if they have the right weapons but implores the west to send more military aid as soon as possible. An honour to speak with him today to get such a close insight into the emotion and hardship that all Ukrainian people are going through at this time. Julia James. Translator Eva International Media Ltd https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 57: Why the American political system is the “ultimate self-licking ice cream cone” Jun 01, 2022

Terry discusses flaws in the American political system; how the Democrats don’t have policies that focus on geopolitical realities and are too willing to grow our deficit, but also why the other side is worse. How the Republicans have let go of basic decency and ethics just to hang on to power. A poignant and heartfelt commentary on the state of affairs, listen to this episode if you need a shot of common sense and humanity in this crazy world. Eva International Media Ltd https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 56: My visceral reaction to the Texas school shooting May 25, 2022

Terry talks about the Texas school shooting and how laws can save lives, but in America, over 40,000 people die a year from gun violence – senseless deaths. “The best way to ensure we don’t go down the slippery slope of tyranny is to have a strong functioning democracy.” Eva International Media Ltd Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 55: Think you know which type of energy is cleanest? Solar? Wind? Think again May 12, 2022

Terry is joined by Mark Mills a senior fellow at the Manhattan Institute, and expert on energy. “We cannot run society on energy sources that operate at the convenience of nature.” This week they cover greenwashing in the energy sector and why renewable energy might not be the only answer. They answer questions like: 1. Are governments greenwashing their energy policies? 2. Is solar and wind power actually better than burning oil and gas? 3. How the epicentre of the energy supply chain is a dangerous game 4. Why we were too dependent on Russia’s oil, and 5. Is history to repeat itself? Discussing topics from problems associated with hybrid and electric car batteries and debunking myths about different sources of energy to why we need to stop demonizing nuclear power. Shocking and frank open discussions, nuanced relationships, and reality checks. Powerful stuff, you do not want to miss this one.

EPS 54: Combatting Russian propaganda with emails May 05, 2022

Julia Minson tells Terry about her work with the website providers of to help people in Russia gain access to independent media, addressing disinformation and propaganda. The website sends emails to individuals in Russia, allowing people to download software to enable access to international media sources, whilst protecting them from government surveillance. Julia joined forces with the creator to provide her psychological perspective, and her expertise in persuasion and conflict resolution theory to address the wider problem of individuals who believe the propaganda, or who are on the fence. If you’re interested in: - how this tactic works - why it’s important - how the extreme views in the US and COVID vaccine hesitancy have influenced the theory behind the messaging - how you can get involved with the application, and be one of the half a million people already using the website to send emails to Russian people Then this is the podcast for you. Eva International Media Ltd

Episode 53: Need an idea for a great meal? Washington Post food critic Tom Sietsema joins Terry Apr 29, 2022

Need an idea for a great meal? Recommendation for a spectacular restaurant? Check out my conversation with Washington post food critic Tom Sietsema. https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 52: My thoughts on disinformation and propaganda in Ukraine Apr 24, 2022

"My thoughts on disinformation and propaganda in Ukraine (and everywhere else for that matter...)" https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 51: Meet Olga Maliarchuk, whose office was destroyed in Mykolaev minutes before she arrived Apr 14, 2022

Olga is a senior government official in Mykolaev, helping coordinate the local response to the Russian bombardment. She was supposed to be at work when the Russians bombed the local government building, while she had stepped out to run errands. This is her story of life under attack. https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 50: Will gas prices ever come back to Earth? Apr 06, 2022

David Braziel explains today’s crazy energy market. https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 49 What the heck is going on with oil prices anyway Mar 26, 2022

https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 48: What are the coolest ice moons in the outer solar system? Mar 23, 2022

What are the coolest ice moons in the outer solar system? Find out from Jim Head and Erica Nathan from Brown University. https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 47: Thoughts on the invasion of Ukraine Mar 17, 2022

Why disinformation is the biggest threat we face today, and how to avoid getting sucked into its trap. Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 46: What will the James Webb Space Telescope discover? Mar 15, 2022

How are stars and galaxies made, What will the James Webb Space Telescope discover? Find out from Harvard astronomer Charles Law.

45: Thoughts on the invasion of Ukraine Feb 28, 2022

A discussion of the implications of Putin’s war in Ukraine on space policy, and the bigger picture of the future of democracy. https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 44: Was ʻOumuamua just a very bizarre asteroid, or an interstellar spacecraft? Feb 24, 2022

Was ʻOumuamua just a very bizarre asteroid, or am I tets tell at spacecraft? Hear Harvard astronomer Avi Loeb’s take. https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 43: Dr James Head, professor of planetary geosciences at Brown University (part 3) Feb 17, 2022

Dr James Head is a professor of planetary geosciences at Brown University, who has worked on projects from training Apollo astronauts to be geologists, to robotic missions to Venus, Mars, and the outer planets. https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 42: What secrets of the universe with the JWST reveal? Join Dr. Katie Mack and find out! Feb 11, 2022

Doctor Katie Mack is a professor at North Carolina State University, she’s an Astrophysicist and author of the new book The End of Everything, talking about how the universe will end. And she’s also a pilot! https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 41: A conversation with JP Ouellette and Dylan Matlock, the producers of the film Mass Feb 02, 2022

A conversation with JP Ouellette and Dylan Matlock, the producers of the film Mass, a powerful drama about forgiveness and moving beyond tragedy. Check it out! https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 40: Talking modern medicine & Einstein’s theory of relativity with Dr Ricky Flores, one of the worlds’ top paediatricians Jan 26, 2022

Dr. Ricky Flores is the Clinical Director of the Texas Children's Cancer Center in the Woodlands, near Houston, Texas. He is also the president of the Correa Family Foundation, a non-profit set up by the Houston Astros’ shortstop Carlos Correa and his family that focuses on supporting children with cancer. https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 39: New emails show top US and British scientists told Dr Fauci in early 2020 that the Coronavirus likely originated in a lab Jan 19, 2022

Nicholas Wade is a journalist who has written for publications such as the New York Times, Nature, Science, and others. He is the author of a recent article about the “lab leak hypothesis” for the Coronavirus, published in The Bulletin of Atomic Scientists. https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 38: What’s it like to film a movie in space? Jan 13, 2022

James Neihouse is a member of the American Society of Cinematographers and a long-time filmmaker, shooting over 60 movies in his career, including 8 space IMAX films. https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 37: Did Covid originate from the Wuhan Institute of Virology? Jan 05, 2022

Award-winning journalist Nicholas Wade makes the case that Covid-19 did, in fact, originate from the Wuhan Institute of Virology. https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 36: Terry Virts with Dr. John Grunsfeld is a former NASA astronaut Dec 23, 2021

Dr. John Grunsfeld is a former NASA astronaut who flew 5 missions on the Space Shuttle, including 3 to repair the Hubble Space Telescope. He also has a PhD in Astrophysics from the University of Chicago, and also served as NASA’s Associate Administrator for Science. https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 35: Terry Virts with James Head, professor of planetary geosciences at Brown University (part 2) Dec 17, 2021

Dr James Head is a professor of planetary geosciences at Brown University, who has worked on projects from training Apollo astronauts to be geologists, to robotic missions to Venus, Mars, and the outer planets. https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 34: Terry Virts with Will Bruey (CEO) and John Barr (COO) of Varda Dec 08, 2021

Will Bruey is the CEO and John Barr is the COO of Varda, an in-space manufacturing startup company. They were both SpaceX alum before coming to Varda. https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 33: Terry Virts with David Reid, Chief Technology Officer for NOV Dec 01, 2021

David Reid is the Chief Technology Officer for NOV, one of the world’s top energy equipment manufacturers. https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 32: Terry Virts with Dr James Head, professor of planetary geosciences at Brown University, Nov 25, 2021

Dr James Head is a professor of planetary geosciences at Brown University, who has worked on projects from training Apollo astronauts to be geologists, to robotic missions to Venus, Mars, and the outer planets. https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 31: Terry Virts with Eric Berger (Russian military anti-satellite test) Nov 17, 2021

In this episode, Terry talks with Eric Berger about the recent Russian military anti-satellite test. Eric is the senior space editor at Ars Technica and author of the new book Liftoff chronicling the origin story of SpaceX. https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 30: Terry Virts with John Seale is an Australian cinematographer, Oscar winner. Nov 11, 2021

John Seale is an Australian cinematographer, Oscar winner, and member of the Australian Cinematographers Society. Among his works are Mad Max: Fury Road, Cold Mountain, The English Patient, Rain Man, Witness, The Perfect Storm, and so many others.

EPS 29: Terry Virts with Greg Autry is a former White House Liaison Oct 22, 2021

Greg Autry is a former White House Liaison at NASA and nominee for Chief Financial Officer. He is currently a Clinical Professor in the Thunderbird School of Global Management at Arizona State University, where he has a new program in space business. He is the coauthor of Death by China and producer of the film by the same name. He writes frequently for Space News, Forbes and Foreign Policy. He has founded several tech startups and has just finished a new booked entitled “The New Entrepreneurial Dynamic.”

EPS 28: Terry Virts with Jeffrey Kluger (Space update) Oct 13, 2021

Jeffrey Kluger is an editor at large at Time magazine and author of numerous books including Apollo 13 and his latest novel Holdout. https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 27: Terry Virts with Bill Bennett (pilot, cinematographer) Oct 06, 2021

Bill Bennett is a pilot, cinematographer, member of the American Society of Cinematographers since 2004, and has helped film many commercials, films, and TV shows, including The Right Stuff, To Live and Die in LA, and Silverado. https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 26: Terry V with Craig Whitlock, reporter Washington Post (Global War on Terrorism since 2001) Sep 29, 2021

Craig Whitlock is an investigative reporter for the Washington Post, covering the Global War on Terrorism since 2001, and the author of the new best-selling book The Afghanistan Papers. He has won the George Polk award, the Scripps Howard award, the Robert F Kennedy award, as well as other awards for his journalism, and has been a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize three times. https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 25: Terry Virts with Stefan Thonke (professor at Harvard Business School) Sep 22, 2021

Stefan Thomke has a PhD in electrical engineering as well as an MBA from MIT, and is currently a professor at Harvard Business School. https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 24: Terry Virts with Hira Virdee, CEO of Lumi Space Sep 15, 2021

Hira Virdee is a PhD in Astrodynamics from University College London and is the CEO of Lumi Space, a company working towards space sustainability through space traffic management. https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 23: Terry Virts with Justin 'Hasard' Lee, F-35 Fighter Pilot & Youtube content creator Sep 08, 2021

Justin “Hasard” Lee is a Major in the USAF Reserves, a former F-16 pilot and current F-35 Lightning II instructor at Luke AFB. In his civilian world he’s an author, speaker, and content create, with over 50M views on his Youtube channel. https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 22: Terry Virts with Jeffrey Kluger (author of Apollo 13) Sep 01, 2021

Jeffrey Kluger is an editor at large at Time magazine and author of numerous books including Apollo 13 and his latest novel Holdout. https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 21: Terry Virts with Brian Kinsella and Nick Black (US Army) Aug 25, 2021

Brian Kinsella and Nick Black are both US Army combat veterans of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars, and they founded an organization called Stop Soldier Suicide, helping veterans win their most important battle. https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 20: Terry Virts with Katherine Gehl, business leader turned author and political innovator Aug 18, 2021

Katherine Gehl is a business leader turned author and political innovator https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 19: Terry Virts with Paul Hynek, professor of business at Pepperdine University Aug 11, 2021

Paul Hynek is an entrepreneur, a professor of business at Pepperdine University in Southern California, and interestingly, his father, Dr. J. Allen Hynek, worked with the US Air Force’s Project Sign, Project Grudge, and Project Blue Book, studying the phenomena of UFOs. https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 18: Terry Virts with Daniel Lelchuk, Classical Concert Cellist Aug 04, 2021

Daniel Lelchuk is a classical concert cellist, cyclist, and podcast based in New Orleans. https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 17: Terry Virts with Robert Mads Anderson Mountain Guide/Author Jul 28, 2021

Robert Anderson led a team that climbed a new route, without oxygen, on Everests’ remote Kangshung Face. He then ascended the rest of the Seven Summits Solo. He has balanced this with an international advertising career from New Zealand to New York. https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 16: Terry Virts with Michael Steele is the former Lt Governor of the state of Maryland Jul 21, 2021

Michael Steele is the former Lt Governor of the state of Maryland, and former chairman of the republican national committee. He’s currently working to improve voting in America as chairman of the US Vote Foundation. https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 15: Terry Virts with Kuzzat Altay & Arben Istrefi (CEO & COO from Cydeo) Jul 14, 2021

Kuzzat Altay is the founder and CEO, and Arben Istrefi is the COO of Cydeo, a global tech education company based in Northern Virginia, with clients and students in 24 countries. Kuzzat also has a remarkable story as a former refugee from the Xinjiang Uyghur region in China. https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 14: Terry Virts with Bob Kendrick (President of the Negro League Baseball Museum) Jul 07, 2021

Bob Kendrick has been President of the Negro League Baseball Museum in Kansas City, Missouri, for the past 10 years. https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 13: Terry Virts with Lue Elizondo (former director - Advanced Aerospace Threat Identification) Jun 30, 2021

Lue Elizondo is the former director of the Advanced Aerospace Threat Identification Program (ATTIP), the Pentagon organization that studied UFOs. He is also a former U.S. Army Counterintelligence Special Agent and former Director of Global Security and Special Programs for the To The Stars company. https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 12: Terry Virts Talks to Bertrand Piccard, Swiss psychiatrist and explorer Jun 23, 2021

Bertrand Piccard is a Swiss psychiatrist and explorer. He completed the first around-the-world flight in the Breitling Orbiter 3 balloon in 1999 along with his crewmate Brian Jones, and the first global circumnavigation in a solar-powered aircraft, the Solar Impulse, in 2016 along with his fellow pilot André Borschberg. He has been a member of the Explorers Club since 2000. https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 11: Terry Virts Talks to Dan William, former FBI agent Jun 16, 2021

Dan William is a former FBI agent, most recently assigned to the Bureau’s Chicago field office in the counterterrorism branch. He is currently working for Charles River Associates, a global consulting firm. https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 10: Terry Virts Talks to Dan Demsky - Toronto-based entrepreneur & Co-Founder of Unbound Merino Jun 09, 2021

Dan Demsky is a Toronto-based entrepreneur and Co-Founder of Unbound Merino– the high-performance clothing brand known for sweat-wicking, wrinkle-resistant, anti-bacterial Merino wool styles that stay clean and fresh for weeks on end. Looking for a solution to minimize packing for longer adventures, he discovered the benefits of merino wool and launched Unbound Merino in 2016 with lifelong friends and fellow travelers Andrew Cariboni and Dima Zelikman. Today, Unbound Merino is available in 100+ countries and worn by countless travelers all over the world. https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 9: Terry Virts Talks to Matt Scott (professor at the University of Southern California’s School of Cinematic Arts)) Jun 02, 2021

Matt Scott is a professor at the University of Southern California’s School of Cinematic Arts, where he teaches IMAX filmmaking. He has an extensive background in television as a producer, writer, and post-production supervisor, and is a member of the Producer’s Guild of America. Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 8: Terry Virts Talks to Clint Emerson (ormer Navy SEAL, best-selling author) May 26, 2021

Clint Emerson is a former Navy SEAL, best-selling author, and businessman. His Escape the Wolf organization helps companies deal with all aspects of security, from cyber threats to active shooters. https://terryvirts.com/ Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 7: Terry Virts Talks to Jonathan Kurtis (professor at Brown University Medical School) May 19, 2021

Jonathan Kurtis, MD, PhD is a professor of pathology and laboratory medicine at the Brown University Medical School, where he also directs the Center for International Health Research at Rhode Island Hospital. Since 1993, Jake has studied malaria, developing a vaccine candidate for this terrible disease through his field research in the Philippines, China, Kenya and Brazil. Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 6: Terry Virts Talks to Jeff Corwin (American biologist and wildlife conservationist) May 12, 2021

Jeff Corwin is an American biologist and conservationist who has been hosting and producing television series for over 20 years. His current shows include Alaska Animal Rescue on Natgeo Wild and Ocean Treks on ABC. Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 5: Terry Virts Talks to Christopher Mellon (former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense) May 05, 2021

Christopher Mellon is the former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Intelligence in both the Clinton and Bush (41) administrations, as well as the Minority Staff Director for the Senate Intelligence Committee and former chairman of the advisory board of To the Stars Academy. He is currently a private equity investor in biotech and IT startups. Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 4: Terry Virts Talks to Chris Benninger, CEO of Guide Dogs for the Blind Apr 28, 2021

Chris Benninger is the CEO of Guide Dogs for the Blind, a non-profit based in San Francisco, California. She is responsible for breeding, raising, training, and caring for thousands of Golden Retrievers and Labradors, some of the most intelligent and highly-trained dogs on Earth. GDB impacts the quality of life of people who need it most, while providing dogs with the satisfaction of meaningful work, always with a focus on the human-animal bond. Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 3: Terry Virts Talks to Doctor Katie Mack Apr 21, 2021

Doctor Katie Mack is a professor at North Carolina State University, she’s an Astrophysicist and author of the new book The End of Everything, talking about how the universe will end. And she’s also a pilot! Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 2: Terry Virts Talks to Eric Berger (Senior Space Editor at Ars Technica) Apr 14, 2021

Eric Berger is the Senior Space Editor at Ars Technica, and he also is a meteorologist who runs Space City Weather, a hype-free weather site for Houston and the Gulf Coast. His latest book, Liftoff, is about the early days of SpaceX. Today we talk about NASA’s human and robotic space programs, what the future of space will look like, and what weather threats we are facing in the 21st Century. Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

EPS 1: Terry Virts Talks to Larry Kopald Apr 07, 2021

Larry Kopald is a former advertising executive and current director of The Carbon Underground, where he’s working to solve the world’s climate crisis by improving farming techniques and restoring soil health so that it can, once again, bring carbon out of our atmosphere and put it back underground. Twitter: @AstroTerry Instagram: astro_terry

Intro: Down to Earth with Terry Virts Mar 01, 2021

Welcome to Down to Earth Down to Earth with Terry Virts is a podcast about what matters on planet Earth. It is hosted by former NASA astronaut, author, and filmmaker Terry Virts, and features his conversations with interesting guests from diverse backgrounds, talking about science, entrepreneurship, climate, TV and Film, politics, sports, and of course, space. Terry will bring his “cosmic perspective” to engage with each guest, and their conversations will be flexible to cover any topic that is important to us humans down here on our planet. Twitter: @AstroTerry IG: astro_terry

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