Russian analog astronaut Anastasia Stepanova shares what 240 days in isolation taught her about human resilience and why the future of space depends on our capacity for storytelling and sanity.

Aerospace engineer Laura González Llamazares talks Hypatia Mars, 3D-printed rocket parts, and why representation is as critical to exploration as oxygen.

Kinsey Institute researcher and space sexologist Dr. Simon Dubé joins to discuss why human connection, touch, and pleasure are essential to long-term space living — and why avoiding the topic is the real risk.

Iranian theatre teacher and Mars One finalist Elahe Nouri on why stories may be our most vital tool for surviving and thriving on Mars.

Married analog astronauts Yari and RDan Golden-Castaño share how their love story — and a shared Mars dream — became a real-world test of teamwork under cosmic pressure.

Ryan MacDonald reveals what drives him to chase Mars, study distant worlds, and confront the profound question at the heart of exploration: what if we’re alone?

Space architect Brent Sherwood reveals what it takes to design the first human city on Mars — from habitats and culture to why the Red Planet may look more like Manhattan than Utopia Planitia.

MoAfrica Thapelo shares his South African journey from childhood stargazer to Mars research advocate — and why skeptics can be the best fuel for progress.

Emergency-room physician and Mars One finalist Dr. Leila Zucker shares how a career in chaos prepared her for the calm of space — and why grit might be the most vital life-support system of all.

Aspiring Martians is the podcast for those captivated by the vision of living on Mars. Each episode unpacks the realities of Martian exploration, blending hard science with the personal stories of those preparing to embark on humanity’s most ambitious journey. From scientists to dreamers, pioneers to future settlers, we bring you the voices shaping what life could be like on Mars. Whether you’re an aspiring Martian yourself or just curious about the journey, join us as we navigate the incredible risks, rewards, and realities of life beyond Earth.