Dr. Shawna Pandya is an astronaut, physician, and research scientist who has dedicated her career to advancing space medicine and biomedical sciences. As an astronaut with the International Institute For Astronautical Sciences, Shawna is actively involved in pioneering research missions on suborbital flights, focusing on the biomedical and fluid physics domains. Her work is at the cutting edge of space health, exploring how space can serve as the next great research laboratory for humanity’s most pressing health challenges. Growing up in Canada, inspired by the achievements of trailblazing astronauts like Dr. Roberta Bondar, Shawna charted a path that combined her love for space, science, and medicine. Her journey reflects a commitment to making space accessible and relevant to all, advocating for the inclusion of diverse talents and new avenues in the evolving space industry. In this episode, you’ll discover:• How Shawna’s childhood dreams led her to a career in space medicine. • The importance of space missions in advancing biomedical sciences. • Insights into the ongoing research at the International Institute For Astronautical Sciences. • The challenges and opportunities in making space accessible to broader communities. • Shawna’s vision for the future of space health and its impact on terrestrial medicine. Quote: “You blink and suddenly there are 4 new avenues that we never even imagined were possible. And so even if there was historically no role for you or no path for you within space and human spaceflight, I encourage you to create your own trajectory.”- Dr. Shawna PandyaEpisode Links: • ShawnaPandya.com • Dr. Shawna Pandya on LinkedIn • Dr. Shawna Pandya on Facebook • Dr. Shawna Pandya on Insta • Dr. Shawna Pandya on X • The International Institute For Astronautical Sciences • NASA’s Johnson Space Center (JSC) • Canadian Space Agency (CSA) • Virgin Galactic Credits: Production by CxS Partners LTD  Executive Producer: Toby Goodman Audio & Sound Design: Lee Turner Artwork: Ryan Field Find your place in the business of space: https://interastra.space