In October 1984, I became the first American woman to walk in space. But, before this became possible, I had to face and overcome a hurdle that presented itself the moment I was given the assignment: NASA’s medical research team saw a problem that not only could have stopped me from the assignment—it could have ruled out all women from spacewalking.

In this episode, I describe how I became the first woman to walk in space and how bias in medical reporting almost prevented all women astronauts from spacewalking. You’ll learn what an altitude chamber test is and why airlines always tell you to put your mask on before helping others. I describe why spacewalking is high-risk and outline some conditions that make individuals more susceptible to the bends. You’ll also gain insight on handling problems—even if they seem personal—with a level head and why leaders should focus on the root cause of problems.

“Peel away the layers, think carefully about what’s causing what, and get to the root of the issue. You’ll often find that a lot of the mess and noise falls away when you tackle the root problem.” - Kathy Sullivan

This week on Kathy Sullivan Explores:

• The rarity of the space flying experience
• Why spacewalks are only done when necessary
• The early days of women flying in space
• The first problem I encountered when I was given the spacewalk assignment
• How to handle problems when they seem personal
• What a pre-breathe is and how spacewalkers are trained to fix emergencies
• What it means to keep the main thing “the main thing”

Our Favorite Quotes:

• “Figuring out what the main thing is amid a swirling cloud of detail and loud voices can be difficult, but it’s important for leaders.” - Kathy Sullivan
• “Keep yourself, and your team focused. Fight the right battle and solve the root of the problem.” - Kathy Sullivan

Spaceship Not Required

I’m Kathy Sullivan, the only person to have walked in space and gone to the deepest point in the ocean.

I’m an explorer, and that doesn’t always have to involve going to some remote or exotic place. It simply requires a commitment to put curiosity into action.

In this podcast, you can explore, reflecting on lessons learned from life so far and from my brilliant and ever-inquisitive guests. We explore together in this very moment from right where you are--spaceship not required.

Welcome to Kathy Sullivan Explores.

Visit my website at kathysullivanexplores.com to sign up for seven astronaut tips to improving your life on earth and be the first to discover future episodes and learn about more exciting adventures ahead!

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