Welcome to the Innovating for Impact podcast that dives into the technologies, strategies, and changemakers reshaping how government serves people. From AI in public health to cybersecurity in federal systems, we spotlight innovations that don’t just disrupt—they deliver real-world impact.
Hosted by Mandy Peckham, President and CEO of BSR Consulting, each episode brings together voices from across the public sector and tech industry to explore what it takes to modernize responsibly, scale effectively, and lead with purpose in complex government ecosystems.
In this episode of the Innovating for Impact podcast, Mandy sits down with Paula Trimble, Vice President of Government Affairs and Strategy at Muon Space, for a wide-ranging conversation on the future of space technology. Before joining Muon, Paula was the Director of Legislative and Interagency Engagement and Director of Small Business Programs at the Space Development Agency where she reduced barriers in the acquisition process and enabled small businesses and start-ups in space technology work with SDA. Paula talks about what first pulled her into the space world, how her career evolved alongside major shifts in U.S. innovation, and the groundbreaking projects shaping the next decade, from wildfire-detecting satellite constellations to the convergence of AI, data science, and space systems.
They explore how government, startups, and traditional aerospace players can partner more effectively, what acquisition reform really means for the industry, where the U.S. is leading (and where it must catch up), and the policies and workforce gaps that could accelerate, or slow, our momentum. Paula also shares insights for entrepreneurs and newcomers entering the field, the challenges of supply chains and budgeting, and what she would change if she could wave a magic wand over U.S. space innovation.
To connect with Paula, follow her on LinkedIn here.
Learn more about Muon Space by visiting their webpage here.
Connect with host Mandy by following her on LinkedIn here.
Learn more about BSR Consulting by visiting their webpage here.
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If you liked listening to this episode, click here to view more in this series. To view all of our podcast series, visit our podcast page.
