What happens when your team competes against Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos for a once-in-a-lifetime NASA contract—and loses? For aerospace leader and author Andy Croker, that setback became a defining moment. In this episode, Andy takes us behind the scenes of the NASA Human Landing System project and into the emotional and professional turbulence that followed.

Rather than being defined by outcomes, Andy turned toward unconditional values—principles that outlast wins, losses, and titles. We unpack the five core values from his book The Unconditionals, explore how they anchor his life, and discover how leaders can build rockets and resilience.

From guiding high-stakes teams to inspiring parents and educators, Andy shares practical wisdom for anyone navigating disappointment, identity, or the relentless pace of success culture. His message is simple but powerful: true leadership isn’t about what you achieve—it’s about who you become when the mission changes.

Tune in for a conversation that blends aerospace innovation, personal conviction, and timeless leadership lessons.