How Rachel Pagonis Found Her Calling from a Cruise at 14 Years Old, Episode 225

We’re back and more excited than ever to bring you fresh stories, honest conversations, and inspiring voices from the maritime industry! Kicking off this season, Christine MacMillian sits down with our first guest for the season, Rachel Pagonis, a Safety Officer onboard a cruise ship with over a decade of experience at sea. Rachel shares how her love for the water started unexpectedly, when she took a cruise at 14 years old, she thought working on a ship would just be a stepping stone while she figured out her future. Little did she know, it would become her dream career. Along the way, she met someone who changed her perspective, a woman named Lucy, who was unapologetically herself and never tried to fit into anyone else’s mold. Lucy’s authenticity inspired Rachel to fully embrace her path and chase her career at sea. Now, as a leader in the industry, Rachel is passionate about mentoring and investing in those coming up behind her, becoming a “Lucy” for the next generation of women+ in maritime.

Who was your “Lucy” in life? Have you had the chance to uplift someone following in your footsteps? We’d love to hear your stories!

Be sure to follow us and Rachel’s journey on Instagram: @rachelmayatsea @womenoffshore

We are deeply grateful to our 2025 Podcast Sponsor, The U.S. Merchant Marine Academy Alumni Association and Foundation, for their invaluable support and commitment to advancing maritime careers and opportunities for women+ on the water. www.usmmaalumni.com

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