What happens when you leave the high-stakes, "level-10 emergencies" of political campaign management to find your center among the stars? In this episode, I sit down with Corrina Jaramillo-Feldman, Senior Public Information Officer for the National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) VLA, VLBA, and ngVLA. Together, we navigate her fascinating, meandering journey from running statewide campaigns to translating the invisible, silent data sets of radio astronomy for the global public.

As I continue my Enchanted Frequencies series of episodes from New Mexico, I saved the best for last. Corrina opens up about occupying the liminal spaces of identity, the liberating power of "cheerful nihilism" under a pitch-black Santa Fe sky, and the exciting future of the Next Generation Learning Center at the VLA. It's a deep, soulful conversation about public policy, workforce development, and remembering the sacred magic of being small.

• The "Cheerful Nihilist" Perspective: Discover how a childhood solar system book and a spooky, dark house on a Santa Fe mountain shaped Corrina's unique, joyful framework for handling life's heaviest moments.
• Sneak Peek at the Future of Space Education: Learn how the upcoming Next Generation Learning Center at the VLA is going K-12, expanding into adult trades, and transforming New Mexico into a premier global hub for workforce development.
• A Call to Action for Citizen Science: Hear Corrina's passionate defense of the permanence of science funding, why your phone calls to representatives matter, and how everyday people can protect the future of space exploration.

Whether you are looking to reconnect with your own sense of wonder or want a fascinating peek behind the curtain of the world's most advanced radio telescopes, this conversation is the perfect antidote to the noise of everyday life. From political campaigns to the hum of the cosmos, Corrina's journey reminds us just how beautiful and liberating it is to be small. So grab a glass of your favorite drink, settle in for our Ritual, and join us on the banks of the river for an unforgettable journey into the deep cosmic stream. You won't want to miss this splash!

Remember that the Deep-Sky Hotline is always open at 855-DEEP-SKY (855-333-7759) if you want to leave a question or share your own stargazing rituals. If you want to join the crew, unlock our private Discord channels, and claim one of the few remaining limited-edition Enchanted Frequencies mission stickers, head over to astropotamus.com/support.

Until the next bend in the River, clear skies, and I'll see you in the dark!