The Daily Stoic Spending 213 Days In Space Does THIS To You | Astronaut Terry Virts (PT. 1)
131 snips
Sep 3, 2025 
In this engaging conversation, former NASA astronaut Terry Virts shares his incredible journey as an F-16 fighter pilot and the challenges of becoming an astronaut. He dives into the intense selection process and explains why thrill-seekers don’t cut it in space. Terry offers insights on emotional control essential for high-stress missions and reflects on the 'overview effect'—the transformative experience of seeing Earth from space. He also discusses ethical leadership and the importance of character in today’s society.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Training Converts Fear Into Authority
- Training replaces unfamiliarity with authority, reducing panic in emergencies.
- Repeated graded exposure builds tolerance for stress and steadier judgment under pressure.
Stand Out With Practical, Uncommon Experience
- When applying to elite programs, make yourself stand out with uncommon, practical experience like being a mechanic or pilot.
- Treat small interactions as windows into character because selection panels ask support staff about you.
Avoid Thrill-Seeker Signals
- Avoid thrill-seeking hobbies if you want to be trusted in high-stakes teams; they signal poor risk judgement.
- Favor disciplined operational skills like mountaineering or scuba that show controlled risk tolerance.
