Inside the Space Economy: Supply Chain, Innovation & Opportunities for All

Apr 28, 2025

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In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton and Kevin L. Jackson welcome Dr. David Beck of the U.S. Space Force and Richard Donaldson, entrepreneur and circularity advocate, to explore the explosive intersection of space and supply chain.

From launching satellites to building sustainable infrastructure beyond Earth’s atmosphere, the conversation dives deep into what it takes to support the growing space economy—projected to reach over $1.8 trillion by 2035. Dr. Beck, a veteran technologist and branch chief at the Space Force, breaks down space logistics as a system of innovation, sustainability, and national security.

The panel discusses the rise of CubeSats, the critical need for space debris cleanup, how SpaceX’s rideshare model is revolutionizing orbital logistics, and why we’re no longer preparing for the future—we’re living it.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(00:39) Excitement about space

(04:28) Early inspirations for space

(12:05) Panelists' backgrounds and journeys

(24:19) Space logistics and its importance

(39:56) Decoding space acronyms

(40:50) Impact of the space economy

(42:37) Military and private sector collaboration

(44:13) Global space race and competitors

(48:22) Opportunities in the space economy

(55:47) Innovations and developments in space

Additional Links & Resources

Connect with Dr. David Beck: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidbeckmba/
Connect with Richard Donaldson: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richarddonaldson/
Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com
Watch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now
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Work with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVk
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This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Kevin Jackson and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/inside-space-economy-supply-chain-innovation-opportunities-1422