Mar 14, 2025

The Heirloom Podcast Launches with NASA Astronaut Barry “Butch” Wilmore

At The Heirloom, we believe that legacy matters—what we build and pass down shapes the future.

What better way to launch season one of The Heirloom Podcast than with a guest whose perspective on legacy, faith, and perseverance is out of this world? For our first episode, we had the privilege of speaking with NASA astronaut and Navy test pilot Commander Barry Wilmore, who joined us by video from the International Space Station. That’s right- from Space!

Butch, as he is affectionately called, has spent over 440 total days in space, commanded the Boeing Starliner Crew Flight Test, and piloted some of the most advanced aircraft in the world. But what defines him isn’t his flight career—it’s his faith in Christ and his commitment to leaving an eternal legacy.

Photo via NASA

In this episode, Butch shares:
- Life aboard the ISS and what it’s like to see 16 sunrises and sunsets every day
- How he went from Navy test pilot to NASA Commander
- How he handled emergencies in space, including thruster failures on Starliner
- The true meaning of legacy—why it’s not about being remembered, but about impact
- His faith in Christ, and how it gives him peace, joy, and purpose even in the weightlessness of space

One of the most powerful moments in our conversation was Butch’s reflection on legacy. He reminded us that true legacy isn’t about having your name remembered—it’s about leaving behind what truly endure.

“For me, my greatest legacy isn’t in the aircraft I’ve flown or the missions I’ve completed—it’s in my family, my faith, and the truth of the gospel that I pass on.”

Butch’s faith in Christ isn’t just a part of his life—it’s the foundation of everything he does. And even from 250 miles above Earth, he continues to share that truth with the world.

At The Heirloom, we’re passionate about the legacies that shape families, communities, and culture. On The Heirloom Podcast we explore through long-form interviews how everyday people, through everyday living, leave a lasting impact —not just in space, but here on Earth.

We’d love for you to join us on this journey as we examine the heirlooms of legacy that are all around us.