Ever wondered what it takes to go from being a heart doctor to an aspiring astronaut? This episode features Eiman, an associate professor of medicine and radiology at NMD, who's on the cusp of realizing his space travel dreams with Blue Origin's New Shepard. Join us as we journey through his incredible story of perseverance, from his roots in Iran to his thriving career in Nashville, Tennessee. Eiman opens up about his two-time finalist experiences with NASA and the emotional rollercoaster that has defined his relentless pursuit of space travel.

We delve into the nitty-gritty of astronaut selection, contrasting traditional government programs with the emerging commercial spaceflight industry. Eiman shares the rigorous process he underwent, from psychological evaluations to medical exams, and the complex emotions tied to this career shift. Hear firsthand about the reactions of his family, especially his parents and wife, as they grapple with the excitement and risks of his upcoming suborbital flight. These insights provide a unique look into the human side of space exploration, highlighting the balance between ambition and personal sacrifice.

Looking ahead, we explore the broader implications of human space travel, touching on subjects like rapid global travel, potential colonization of other planets, and the search for extraterrestrial life. Eiman reflects on our technological and financial hurdles, as well as the existential questions that arise from our quest to explore the cosmos.