From Earth orbit to the Moon and Mars, delve into the fascinating realm of human spaceflight with NASA each week on the official podcast of the Johnson Space Center based in Houston, Texas. Tune in for in-depth discussions featuring astronauts, scientists, and engineers who contribute to the successes of space exploration. In episode 376, titled "I Want My NASA TV," the multimedia team at NASA Johnson discusses the evolution of storytelling in space exploration since the Apollo era.
Recorded on February 19, 2025, the episode features host Joseph Zakrzewski leading a conversation with prominent figures from NASA, including multimedia supervisor John Stoll and live television producer team lead Sarah Volkman. They share insights about the intricate work behind capturing NASA's stories and the technical advancements that have shaped the production of NASA TV and the newly launched NASA+ streaming service.
Joseph Zakrzewski welcomes John and Sarah to the podcast, encouraging them to share their backgrounds and journeys to NASA. John begins by recounting his path to the agency, which includes a degree in audio production and initial work with Lockheed Martin. His passion for space exploration ultimately led him to a role in audio for NASA, where he supported both space shuttle missions and the construction of the International Space Station.
Sarah shares her own journey, highlighting her love for film and television. After studying at Stephen F. Austin State University, she sought opportunities in the industry that led her to a news station. Ultimately, her passion and luck aligned when she found a position at NASA, where she continues to thrive in a creative environment.
Joseph queries John about the size of the NASA TV multimedia team. John explains that the team is diverse, consisting of video producers, editors, audio engineers, and social media coordinators. This varied skill set allows them to cover a wide range of tasks, from live broadcasts to post-production, all while maintaining communication with the flight control team.
Sarah elaborates on her role within the team, emphasizing the importance of covering all aspects of NASA's projects, including astronaut activities and high-profile events. The demands on the team have grown alongside the expansion of NASA's missions, including the Artemis program and commercial partnerships.
As the conversation progresses, John reflects on how NASA TV has transformed since the early days of analog broadcasts. The introduction of digital streaming has allowed for more dynamic content delivery, connecting audiences to live events directly from space. Sarah notes that the team has adapted to meet the challenges of new formats and platforms, ensuring that the storytelling remains engaging and informative.
Throughout the discussion, the importance of recognition for the team's hard work is highlighted. Both John and Sarah express pride in receiving awards for their productions, acknowledging that these accolades represent not only individual efforts but the collective dedication of many behind-the-scenes contributors. They emphasize the significance of sharing NASA's groundbreaking work with the world and the impact it has on inspiring future generations.
As the episode wraps up, John and Sarah share their excitement for the future of NASA's productions. With upcoming Artemis missions and continued partnerships with commercial entities, the team is poised to deliver even more captivating content. They discuss the advancements in technology, including Ultra High Definition (UHD) and 4K video, which will enhance the viewing experience for audiences worldwide.
Listeners are encouraged to stay connected with NASA's ongoing journey in space exploration by tuning into the podcast, visiting NASA’s official channels, and witnessing firsthand the incredible stories that unfold in the universe.
The podcast serves as a reminder of the hard work and passion of the team behind the scenes at NASA. By sharing their stories and experiences, John, Sarah, and the entire multimedia team continue to inspire curiosity and wonder about the cosmos. Tune in to the official NASA podcast for more insights into the captivating world of human spaceflight.
