Podcasts about air force thunderbirds

Inside the Rivalry: Blue Angels vs. ThunderbirdsWhat really separates the U.S. Navy Blue Angels from the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds? In this exclusive episode, we dive deep into the history, aircraft, training, team culture, and yes—a bit of the friendly rivalry—between America's premier flight demonstration teams.Joining me are two pilots who lived it:

The roar of jet engines, the crack of precision maneuvers, and the spirit of American airpower are all taking center stage at the 2025 Tinker Air Show—and this week's episode of the Tinker Talks Podcast is soaring right alongside it. From the flightline, host Mark Hybers welcomes a special guest: Thunderbird #5, the iconic “upside-down” pilot from the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds team. The conversation dives into the pilot's inspiring journey from watching jets roar over Arlington National Cemetery as a child to flying F-16s in one of the world's most elite aerial demonstration teams. Listeners get an inside look at what it takes to fly the Thunderbirds' new high-energy, emotionally charged performance debuting at Tinker for the first time since 2017. From the symbolism behind the new routine to the physical training it takes to withstand brutal G-forces, the pilot shares the grit and grace behind the glamour.

Pipe Band registers Highlands 'sett' A distinctive look can establish pride and set a group apart, whether it's Yankee pinstripes, the golden helmets of the Fighting Irish of Notre Dame or the iconic painting scheme of the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds. For the Hudson Highlands Pipe Band, what distinguishes it from other bands is its tartan, or "sett," which became official when it was listed last year in the Scottish Register of Tartans, established by the country's Parliament in 2008. "For years, we wore the Royal Stuart tartan," says James Hartford, the band's pipe major. Red is its dominant color, making it popular with fire departments. The local pipe band, established in 2005, was originally associated with the Cold Spring Fire Co. but later became Cold Spring Pipes and Drums and, more recently, the Hudson Highlands Pipe Band. Hartford, an architect, designed the tartan with help from Aeneas Eaton, a graphic designer who sometimes plays bass drum with the band. Each of its colors represent an aspect of the Highlands' history or geography, Hartford says: blue for the Hudson River; amber for the mountains and foliage; red for iron industries, including mines and West Point Foundry; blue-grey tones for West Point; and two white lines for the railroads that flank the river. A tartan can have three to five variants. The Hudson Highlands tartan features the "Hunter" version, historically associated with stealth because it can blend in with woodland surroundings. The band also considered "ancient" and "contemporary" variants that feature muted and vivid tones, respectively. Creating the tartan inspired considerable debate among the band's 25 members, Hartford says, particularly over the colors. Hartford says the group reached consensus once he explained the rationale behind each color. The fabric, a heavy wool, was produced by Lochcarron of Scotland. The first kilts arrived in the fall. In the U.S., tartan and plaid are often used synonymously, but while a tartan is a plaid, not all plaids are a tartan. Tartans have the same pattern of stripes running vertically and horizontally, creating overlapping square grids. Plaids are not necessarily identical in both directions and can vary in size, pattern and color. Tartan is also usually woven in a two-over-two twill pattern, creating an illusion of new colors when the original hues are blended.

Praising their choice of a life in service, President Trump addressed graduates at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, where the next generation of Army leaders is trained. He spoke of what he called a “golden age” for the nation and highlighted recent changes in the military under his leadership.Meanwhile, the FourLeaf Air Show returns to Jones Beach this Memorial Day Weekend, signaling the unofficial start of summer on Long Island. The 2025 lineup features the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds and other elite military aviation teams, thrilling crowds and honoring the spirit of service.Across the country, Americans mark Memorial Day by honoring the sacrifice of servicemembers at cemeteries and monuments. But for those whose heroism ended overseas and decades ago, there's a growing push to bring their stories closer to home—ensuring they are remembered not just in history, but in the hearts of local communities.House Republicans passed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act to implement President Donald Trump's agenda in an early morning session on May 22, with a 215–214 vote. It now heads to the Senate. What's in Trump's ‘Big Beautiful Bill'? Experts weigh in.

The Resilient Leader's Journey Podcast focuses on navigating challenging currents of growth & change. In this episode, Major General Brian Bishop shares insights from his extensive military career and how they apply to leadership in business. He discusses the concept of 9G Teams, emphasizing the importance of a common mission, resource allocation, and individual contributions to team success. Bishop also highlights the significance of trust, continuous learning, and the balance between confidence and humility in leadership. Through anecdotes from his time with the Air Force Thunderbirds, he illustrates how effective training and communication foster trust and commitment within teams.  Chapters:  03:55 Navigating the 9G Environment in Business 09:52 Building Trust in High-Pressure Situations 15:53 Confidence vs. Overconfidence in Leadership

This week on The DeCesare Group Podcast, join Jim DeCesare for his conversation with Retired Brigadier General Dan Cherry. Cherry served as a fighter pilot in the United States Air Force for nearly thirty years and Commander of the Air Force Thunderbirds. He currently serves as Director Emeritus of Aviation Heritage Park in Bowling Green. General Cherry has also served as President of the Kentucky Transpark, a large economic development project for South Central Kentucky, and Secretary of the Kentucky Justice Cabinet. Catch The DeCesare Group Podcast every Sunday morning at 7 on 95.1-WGGC. To learn more about Aviation Heritage Park, visit their website https://www.aviationheritagepark.com/

Michelle Curran, call sign “MACE,” is a combat veteran and trailblazing former F-16 fighter pilot with 13 years of service in the United States Air Force. As the lead solo pilot for the elite Air Force Thunderbirds from 2019 to 2021, she was the second woman ever to hold this position, inspiring millions with her aerial performances. With 1,500 flight hours, including 163 combat hours in Afghanistan, Michelle's career epitomizes grit, determination, and teamwork.Now the founder of Upside Down Dreams, Michelle shares her action-packed stories and hard-won lessons to help audiences conquer self-doubt, reframe challenges, and achieve their dreams. Featured on The Kelly Clarkson Show and CBS Evening News, she continues to inspire as a speaker, mentor, and advocate."SHOW SUMMARYIn this episode of the Selling from the Heart podcast, hosts Larry Levine and Darrell Amy are joined by Michelle Curran, former F-16 fighter pilot and lead solo pilot for the Air Force Thunderbirds. Michelle, known for her call sign 'MACE,' shares her journey, the importance of authenticity in sales, and how to leverage fear as a superpower. The episode highlights Michele's upcoming book, 'The Flipside.' Michelle discusses the significance of focus, trust, and accountability both in the cockpit and in the sales profession. Listeners also get a heartwarming story of Michelle surprising a young admirer on the Kelly Clarkson Show. This episode is filled with actionable insights for sales professionals and leaders looking to build genuine relationships and trust in their careers.KEY TAKEAWAYSCreating Value in Sales: Effective selling is about genuinely helping and providing value to the customer, not just pitching a product.Importance of Empathy: Empathy is crucial in sales. Understand and align with your customers' needs and perspectives.Active Listening: Great sales meetings involve active listening, where the salesperson speaks less and listens more to understand the customer's challenges.Follow-Up Strategy: Following up with potential clients needs to include adding value in each touch point, rather than just checking in for updates.Becoming an Expert: Knowing your industry, company, and client's business thoroughly can significantly enhance sales effectiveness.Financial Understanding: Understanding your clients' financials and how business decisions impact their P&L and balance sheets is essential for meaningful conversations.Effective Sales Meeting: Break sales meetings into diagnosis and prescription phases – first understand the problem, then present your solution tailored to that problem.Consistency in Outreach: It takes multiple touchpoints to engage a prospect; persistence coupled with value-driven outreach is key.QUOTES“People are pretty quick to pick up on when there's a disconnect there.”“When you focus on how you can deliver the most value to the person you're speaking to, it reduces that anxiety so much.”“There's an opportunity to get judged there. There's an opportunity to fail in front of everyone.”“Consistent accountability eventually just becomes the norm and it gets less scary to people.”“Getting into task-focused mode and having a clear mission helps mitigate fear and distraction.”Learn more about Michelle Curran: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/macecurran/Learn more about Darrell and Larry: Darrell's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrellamy/Larry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/larrylevine1992/Website: https://www.sellingfromtheheart.net/ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:Explore the secrets of heart-centered leadership and thriving workplace cultures with Culture from the Heart Podcast—nominate a visionary CEO at www.culturefromtheheart.com!Order Larry Levine's book, Selling in a Post-Trust World! Get it on Barnes & Noble and access exclusive content!SUBSCRIBE to our YOUTUBE CHANNEL!Stay updated with the latest episodes and leadership tips: Selling from the Heart YouTubeGet Your Daily Dose of Inspiration:Click Here for Your Daily Dose

In This Episode You Will Learn About:  Pushing through doubt Seeing your Inner strength Embracing vulnerability Resources: Website: macecurran.com Email: michelle@macecurran.com  LinkedIn: Michelle “MACE” Curran  Instagram & Twitter: @mace_curran Get 10% off your first Mitopure order at timeline.com/CONFIDENCE. Download the CFO's Guide to AI and Machine Learning at NetSuite.com/MONAHAN Sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/monahan Cancel unwanted subscriptions and reach your financial goals faster at RocketMoney.com/CONFIDENCE. Call my digital clone at 201-897-2553!  Visit heathermonahan.com Reach out to me on Instagram & LinkedIn Sign up for my mailing list: heathermonahan.com/mailing-list/  Overcome Your Villains is Available NOW! Order here: https://overcomeyourvillains.com  If you haven't yet, get my first book, Confidence Creator Show Notes:  Imposter syndrome is relentless but you can keep the doubt at bay! How is this possible? With the insights of my incredible guest, Michelle “Mace” Curran, the former Lead Solo for the Air Force Thunderbirds! She understands being comfortable with fear, flying upside down in formation at mach 8 speeds! She will teach us how to find our inner strength and put imposter syndrome away FOR GOOD! Foster trust! Be vulnerable! And always make the BOLD choice! 

Col. (Ret.) Nicole Malachowski '96 shares her insights on leadership, resilience, resurgence, perseverance, advocacy, and how she continues to serve her country, even after her military career. ----more---- A SHOW NOTE:  There are two ways to learn from Col. Malachowski's leadership journey. If you're short on time, the audio version delivers the highlights of her stories in 40 minutes. Her leadership bites, takeaways, keys to leadership and transcript are below. The video version is 1:46:00 and is well worth the investment of your time. This version includes stories and details about the Colonel's journey she hasn't shared before. Click the "Play" button in the video above and settle in for a most enlightening conversation.    SUMMARY Col. (Ret.) Nicole Malachowski '96 is a trailblazer who has broken barriers in both military aviation and advocacy. She was one of the first women to fly combat fighter aircraft, accruing more than 2,300 flight hours in six different aircraft and serving in multiple high-stakes missions, including Operations Deliberate Forge and Iraqi Freedom. But her story doesn't end there. As the first woman to fly with the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, a White House Fellow, and a key advisor on military and veterans' issues, Nicole's career has been defined by leadership at the highest levels. After being medically retired due to a Tick-Borne Illness, she turned her focus to advocacy, leading efforts to improve care for the wounded, ill, and injured service members through the Air Force Wounded Warrior Program. Now a passionate advocate for Tick-Borne Disease research, Nicole serves on several national committees and advisory boards, including the Department of Defense's Congressionally Directed Medical Research Program.   NICOLE'S LEADERHIP BITES "Leadership is a journey." "The runway behind you is always unusable." "Don't think you have to be perfect to be a leader." "Believe those who believe in you." "Nobody wants to lead a scripted life." "Courage, compassion, and curiosity drive me today." "It's okay to admit when you make mistakes."   SHARE THIS EPISODE LINKEDIN  |  TWITTER  |  FACEBOOK   TAKEAWAYS Leadership is personal - It's about understanding what motivates and drives each individual on your team, and tailoring your approach accordingly. Believe in those who believe in you - Mentors like Mick Jaggers who supported and encouraged Nicole were pivotal in her development as a leader. Don't write yourself or others out of the script - As General Matthews told Nicole, "Nobody wants to lead a scripted life." Embrace opportunities to dream big and take risks. Radical acceptance is key - When Nicole's military career ended unexpectedly, learning to accept the situation allowed her to move forward and find new purpose. Personal values guide your path - Nicole's core values of courage, compassion and curiosity have been instrumental in navigating life's challenges and reinventing herself.   CHAPTERS 00:00  The Journey of Leadership 02:01  Colonel Malachowski's Early Life and Aspirations 06:01  Navigating the Air Force Academy 09:46  Leadership Lessons from Soaring 14:07  Overcoming Challenges in Pilot Training 17:50  Key Leadership Experiences in the Air Force 21:59  Becoming a Thunderbird Pilot 25:47  Transitioning to Civilian Life 30:02  Advocacy and New Beginnings 34:09  Personal Values and Resilience 37:54  Final Thoughts on Leadership   NICOLE'S KEYS TO LEADERSHIP SUCCESS Leadership is a journey that requires growth and learning. It's okay to admit mistakes and seek help. Resilience is key to overcoming challenges. Personal values guide decision-making and actions. Mentorship plays a crucial role in personal and professional development. Failure is often the price of entry for success. Authentic leadership is about understanding and connecting with people. The importance of representation in leadership roles. Transitioning to civilian life can be a new beginning. Embrace opportunities and seize the moment.   ABOUT NICOLE BIO Colonel Nicole Malachowski (USAF, Ret.) is a pioneering leader whose distinguished career spans combat aviation, military advocacy, and public service. As one of the first women to fly fighter jets, Nicole's journey included over 188 combat hours and multiple leadership roles, including F-15E Flight Commander, Instructor Pilot, and Flight Lead. She also made history as the first woman to fly with the USAF Thunderbirds. Throughout her career, Nicole demonstrated exceptional leadership, serving in high-level roles such as a White House Fellow and Executive Director of the ‘Joining Forces' program, where she advised the First Lady and Dr. Jill Biden on veterans' issues. After being medically retired due to a neurological Tick-Borne Illness, Nicole transitioned to a new mission: advocating for service members, veterans, and others impacted by chronic illnesses. She's a leader in the national Tick-Borne Disease community, serving on key advisory boards and government committees, and actively mentoring wounded veterans through the Air Force Wounded Warrior Program. Nicole is also a sought-after speaker, author, and consultant, sharing her experiences of overcoming adversity and breaking barriers to inspire the next generation of leaders. Her accomplishments include two master's degrees, induction into the Women in Aviation Pioneer Hall of Fame, and founding her own speaking and consulting firm. Today, Nicole continues to serve and lead, using her story to drive change and impact communities across the country.  - Adapted from Col. Malachowski's bio at nicholemalachowski.com   READ NICOLE'S FULL STORY HERE     CONNECT WITH NICOLE LINKEDIN  |  FACEBOOK  |  INSTAGRAM  |  NICOLE'S LINKTREE     ABOUT LONG BLUE LEADERSHIP Long Blue Leadership drops every two weeks on Tuesdays and is available on Apple Podcasts, TuneIn + Alexa, Spotify and all your favorite podcast platforms. Search @AirForceGrads on your favorite social channels for Long Blue Leadership news and updates!          ABRIDGED AUDIO TRANSCRIPT DOWNLOAD THE UNABRIDGED VIDEO TRANSCRIPT HERE  SPEAKERS GUEST:  Col. (Ret.) Nicole Malachowski '96  |  HOST:  Lt. Col. (Ret.) Naviere Walkewicz '99   SPEAKERS Naviere Walkewicz, Nicole Malachowski   Nicole Malachowski  00:11 You know, leadership is a journey. We're always put into positions that we're supposed to grow into. Don't think you have to be perfect to be a leader. It's okay to admit when you make mistakes, it's okay to ask for help, and it's okay to have failures, as long as you overcome them. And I like to remind folks at all levels of leadership, you know that the runway behind you is always unusable. All you ever have is the runway that's in front of you.   Naviere Walkewicz  00:34 My guest today is Colonel Retired Nicole Malachowski, USAFA class of '96. Her career has been nothing short of extraordinary. Colonel Malachowski is perhaps best known as the first woman to fly as a pilot with the Thunderbirds, a singular distinction that set her path to reaching even greater heights. However, what you might not know is that her journey took an unexpected turn when she faced a sudden life altering loss of her place in the Air Force. The challenges that followed were extreme and personal, but through them, Colonel malikowski demonstrated a resilience and strength that not only transformed her own life, but also empowered her to help others with their own struggles. In today's conversation, we'll dive deep into the personal and professional journey that led her to transition to civilian life, the lessons she learned from the hardships she faced along the way, and how she now advocates for others, sharing the wisdom she's gained from the tough battles she's fought and won. We'll also take a look back at her time at the academy, her experiences as a pilot and the leadership principles that have guided Colonel malikowski, she has become a powerful voice for resilience, perseverance and leadership, and I'm excited to hear her insights on all of these topics. Colonel Malachowski, may I call you Nicole?   Nicole Malachowski  02:34 Yes, please.   Naviere Walkewicz  02:34 Welcome to Long Blue Leadership, and thank you for being here.   Nicole Malachowski  02:37 Thank you for having me.   Naviere Walkewicz  02:38 It's a pleasure. It truly is. I think one of the things that's so exciting for our listeners is really getting to know you. And you know, I think there's no question about who you are in the media, I mean, all the things you've accomplished, but some things that are most special is when we just sit down and kind of get to know you behind the scenes.   Nicole Malachowski  02:53 Indeed, let's do it.   Naviere Walkewicz  02:54 So let's go back to even before the Academy. Where did you grow up? Where are you from? And what were you like as a little girl?   Nicole Malachowski  03:00 Sure, yeah. So I was actually born in central California, in a town called Santa Maria, and I was born, I consider very lucky, because I was born a woman in America, so there was a lot of opportunities, you know, afforded to me. Also very lucky to be born into a solid, you know, middle class family, you know, I was a kid who always had a roof over my head and food on the table, which makes it a lot easier, right, for you to seize opportunities and to be your best. And think it's important that we acknowledge that not everybody is born into that position. And so I was very, very lucky, I will tell you, I was definitely the loner, definitely an introvert. Always have been. A lot of people would be surprised by that, but I am a solid INFJ on the Myers Briggs, but as a young kid, just very quiet, kept to myself. I was very much a dreamer, very curious about things, so I loved to dive into books. I loved school. I was the kid that would take my lunch box, you know, out into the middle of the football field by myself and just stare up at the sky and the clouds moving by, and dream about things. I remember being in the Girl Scouts during junior high we moved down towards Southern California, where I learned about Civil Air Patrol, and then from there, in high school, we actually made a big move to Las Vegas, Nevada. I continued my time in Civil Air Patrol as a cadet, but also joined the Air Force Junior ROTC at my high school.   Naviere Walkewicz  04:16 I'm just drawn to this visual of you with your lunch box in the middle of the football field looking up at this guy. So were you dreaming about flying?   Nicole Malachowski  04:24 I was, you know, I went to an air show when I was five years old, and I remember seeing an f4 phantom fly by, and it flew by so low, and it was so loud, I had to cover my ears. And I remember, like, my chest rumbling, you know, the smell of jet fuel. And I remember thinking, man, like there's a person in there, like, I want to be, you know, that person. And I had come from a family that, you know, honored and respected military service. So both of my grandfathers were career military my father had been drafted into the army during Vietnam. So I knew that, like, you know, military service was honorable and noble and good. And when I discovered that that was a military plane. I remember as a kid putting one plus one is two. I'm like, wait, you can fly jets and serve in the military. That's what I'm going to be. And wow, that was around 1979 and that's right, there are no boundaries on things. So looking up at the sky, watching planes, and of course, in high school in particular, moving to Las Vegas, Nevada, because Nellis Air Force bases there. So, I mean, I would watch the red flag launches and watch how those jets fly. And of course, I would see the six ship of Thunderbirds flying by as a kid, thinking that was pretty cool. So to be honest, I set my sights on the Air Force Academy in elementary school.   Naviere Walkewicz  05:34 Oh, my goodness.   Nicole Malachowski  05:35 Yeah. So when I was five and decided to be a fighter pilot, you had decided, I mean, I was maniacally, maniacally focused. I did not have a backup plan. I am so lucky that things worked out because I have no idea what else I would have done, you know, with my career, but I remember in sixth grade, I wrote a letter to the Air Force Academy. They responded. The admissions office responded with a personalized letter letting me know I'm kind of young to apply now, but here's the application process. They sent me a whole bunch of Air Force Academy swag, and that was it sixth grade. I was going to the Air Force Academy, goodness, when you were actually old enough to apply. Now to the academy.   Naviere Walkewicz  06:13 Let's talk about that process. What was it like for you? Well, I mean, I think it was more exciting than anything else. I told you. I had stayed maniacally focused. I was very particular and organized about prioritizing how my application would look. So of course, I strove to have the good grades, and obviously stayed involved with the activities like Civil Air Patrol or participating in sports like running cross country and track, as well as doing, you know, community service type activities. So I was indeed focused on making sure that application looked good. I remember the thing I was probably the most nervous about were those interviews with your, you know, senators and your representatives, and wondering if I was going to be able to interview well. So I was, you know, putting my best foot forward. And I remember my senior year, it was approximately October, maybe coming up on November about this time, right? And I went to the mailbox to get the mail, and I had the application had already been in, right? Because everything was done before the fall, and I saw this giant envelope from the Air Force Academy. And I thought, No way, because it's only like October or November. And I started shaking, and I opened it right there at the mailbox. I had to go up the street. I opened it, and I feel bad because I think I littered like the envelope all over the street, but I remember opening it up, and the first line was, congratulations. You know, you've been accepted to the class of 1996 and I instantaneously just started crying and running as fast as I could back to my house.   Naviere Walkewicz  07:38 Had you been to the Academy prior to the acceptance?   Nicole Malachowski  07:41 No, never stood a foot on at all. And I remember when my parents came to drop me off for for Jacks Valley and everything basic training, when we came up over that hill, over Monument Hill, and you can see the chapel and the kind of imposing, you know, white buildings on a hill, I was like, Oh, wow, that's extraordinary. And I was really just excited. People ask, were you nervous that day? I was not, because I was just so happy that this, to me, was like the first step of the rest of my life. It was that first real step towards this goal of serving my country, you know, like people my family had, and getting to fly jets while I do it, how cool is that? I don't remember any highs or lows. I do remember I got my enjoyment becoming a cadet, you know, soaring instructor pilot.   Naviere Walkewicz  08:28 So let's talk about that. That is a, kind of a key leadership role as well.   Nicole Malachowski  08:32 Yes, that was my leadership role. So my senior year, I was the cadet soaring squadron commander. Oh, let's talk about Yes, yes. So obviously, between freshman, sophomore year, I signed up as soon as I could, you know, to take soaring, and when I discovered that you could actually apply to be a soaring instructor, and I remember that was a really like growth experience, because it's one thing to be able to fly a glider, it's another thing to be able to try to teach somebody how to do that. And I really, I I give a lot of credit to this, you know, sorry, instructor upgrade program teaching me the skills of, how do you communicate something technical? How do you communicate something hard, this idea that you need to be able to communicate it not just in one way, but two or three different ways, because each of your students is going to come at it with a different skill set or a different perspective or a different personality that responds to different type of teaching. So learning how to tailor your instruction and your care and your leadership to each individual was something I learned here, you know, as a sophomore, this idea that I would carry that on into my career as a leader and, you know, ultimately into being, you know, a fighter squadron commander. This tailored leadership actually started here, but soaring is what was my respite. Soaring is where I refilled that tank. It's one thing to be successful yourself. It's a whole different level to teach somebody else to be successful.   Naviere Walkewicz  09:55 So you knew you enjoyed Well, obviously you enjoyed the flying? And soaring, the leadership aspect, I think, was something that was new to you then. Or had you done that in Civil Air Patrol? Did you also have leadership there?   Nicole Malachowski  10:06 Yeah, I had leadership experience in Civil Air Patrol, but I think this was a different level. You know, my senior year becoming the cadet soaring squadron commander, it was really cool, because not only were you trying to take inputs from your peers and your colleagues on things we could improve or do differently, you know, valuing the other cadets opinions. But how do I translate that to leadership? How do I go now and talk to the real officers, the active duty officers in charge, and go, these are maybe resources we need, or things culturally, you know, that we need to change, and that was hard for me, you know, because I had never done that before. How do you advocate for your peers in a way that's understood, you know, by the active duty leadership. So that was really something that, again, would become important in my military career, because when you're put in a leadership role, you know, it's about, I think, advocating for the people who you are, you know, accountable for and responsible to, yes, and so how can you do that and do it in a way that it's received? Well, yes, you know, by the leadership above you,   Naviere Walkewicz  11:07 After you graduated from the Academy, you went on to pilot training.   Nicole Malachowski  11:11 I was slated to go early right after graduation, and I was a casual status Lieutenant flying gliders. Of course, went out for a jog and broke my ankle. So this would be my first kind of little, little detour. And I ended up, they offered me to go, to go to shepherd a lot later, or as soon as my ankle was healed, I could go to Columbus Air Force Base Mississippi right away. And I said, I gotta go, like, I cannot sit around and wait. I want to go to Columbus Air Force Base Mississippi. And everyone's like, what you're going to turn down, like, the chance of going to fighters to like, have to fight for it at Columbus. I like, I can't be stagnant. I need to go. So showed up at Columbus Air Force Base Mississippi, and again, really grateful for all of the flying experience that I had. I think that just those foundational procedures, you know, foundational knowledge, was vital to being a little more comfortable than other people that didn't have that experience. It was easy to be slightly ahead of the curve early on, but as I like to tell people, I fell flat on my face across the starting line my second check ride in pilot training, I failed. Now, pilot training at that time was about a year long. There were about 10 check rides, and at that time, failing one check ride, statistically, traditionally, would take you out of the running for graduating high enough to be a fighter pilot. This was devastating to me, and I remember even having fleeting moments that night of like, maybe I should just quit. Now this is, of course, the youth in me, right? I'm a 21 year old kid, and I'm just getting a little bit emotional about it, but if I can't be a fighter pilot and I just knock myself out of the running, I should quit. And I didn't call my parents because I didn't want to tell them I was too, like, embarrassed maybe, to say, like, hey, my dream that you all have supported is about to come to an end, because I messed up, and I made a really junior varsity mistake. And so I called my mentor, Sue Ross, and then she just let me talk, and she's like, are you done? And I'm done. And she goes, Well, are you going to do that again tomorrow? And I said, Sue, how am I supposed to get back in the jet tomorrow? How do I face my peers? I've been telling them I'm going to fly strike Eagles this whole time. Like this is so embarrassing. What if I fail again? What if I fail again tomorrow? And I remember, she talked me off the ledge, man, you know, and I came away. I came away with that conversation, realizing that indeed, I think I rarely believe failure is the price of entry for achieving something great, because if you have the right mindset, you come away with failures, I think a lot more committed, a lot more dedicated, a lot more focused, and I think a lot more humble, and all of those characteristics and traits are good things. You know, it worked out for me, and I did finish fourth in my class, and I had an extraordinary class. It was a time of great cultural change in the Air Force, because we were the first group of women to come through pilot training with the option of flying fighter aircraft.   Naviere Walkewicz  14:04 So talk about your time while you're in uniform. You had some key leadership positions. You were squadron commander. Can you share some of your stories with that and maybe even some high points and some lessons learned, where you as a leader felt that maybe, maybe it was a low point or a failure, but you grew from it?   Nicole Malachowski 14:20 Sure, sure. Yes. I mean, I had so many, you know, different fun assignments. You know, obviously when you're in your first fighter squadron, I got out at RAF Lake and Heath out there in England. I mean, what a rage right to be a lieutenant flying strike Eagles at 500 feet, 500 miles an hour, up Loch Ness, to live in the dream, you know, becoming in my second squadron, which was at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, becoming a, you know, flight lead and upgrading to instructor pilot. Very nervous to go into the instructor pilot upgrade. I went in very young. In fact, when I got to that squadron, the weapons officer said, hey, I want to put you in the instructor upgrade. And I was like, no. Away like I am not ready for that. I am not good enough for that. And I was new to the squadron. There were people technically older and more experienced than me. They were in the queue, and he wanted me to jump the queue, a guy by the name of Michael Jaggers, call sign, Mick, I'm still friends with him to this day, and I remember I avoided him. I avoided him like the plague because I did not want to upgrade to instructor. And I remember saying, Mick, I just am not sure I can do this. And he looked at me, and he said, it's not your job to get through it. It's not your job to get through it alone. It's my job. It's my job to ensure you have what it takes and what you need. It's my job to teach you to be a good instructor. So your success is going to be my success. I will not let you fail. What a glorious man, what a wonderful instructor. And the lesson learned here to people is this, believe those who believe in you. Believe those who believe in you.   Naviere Walkewicz  15:52 It's true, though it really is. And those people, I think sometimes your trajectory can change or just like, accelerate, because someone gave you a little bit of courage that you just needed that little piece.   Nicole Malachowski 16:03 And to learn as I gained experience and credibility how to replicate that and how to be that person for other people, right? Because it's about turning around. It really is about lifting up other people. Your success isn't your own. It's how can you help other people achieve the best of themselves? And that's what you know Mikey and Mick did for me. And of course, the rest, you know, being history, because then I had the credentials I needed to apply to be a Thunderbird. And then from the Thunderbirds, I could become a commander, yada yada, you know, but being an instructor pilot, again, in the F 15 e how extraordinary to teach a brand new pilot or WSO, not only to fly the aircraft, to how to employ it as a weapon system and then to turn around and go to war with them. There's no bigger honor. There's nothing, I think, more humbling than that.   Naviere Walkewicz  16:49 Can you share something that maybe you learned from the perspective of how to lead better?   Nicole Malachowski 16:55 So let's be honest, when you go into a fighter squadron, things are a little bit one note, right? I mean, we all are cut from a similar cloth. We all kind of have similar personality traits. You know, you don't want your fighter pilots any other way, putting the effort into understanding what drives and motivates individuals. So learning at that age how to put your arms around everybody that you're responsible for, not just the ones that maybe are easiest to lead, or maybe the ones you're the most comfortable, you know, interacting with as a leader is, how do I figure it out? You know, there were some guys that, if I were to call them on up to the front of the room, in front of the whole squadron, to compliment them on something they did, maybe a check right they had. Or this goes for my fighter squadron command as well. You know, they would love it, right? Because it it was how they were extrinsically motivated, and that's okay. There's nothing wrong with that. If that's what they need, and that's what you need to do to get the best of their strengths and best of their commitment go for it. And then were others that low? If I were to bring them in front of their peers to compliment them, they would shut down and never talk to me for the rest of the you know, their assignment. And so that's where I would take the time to write a handwritten note, maybe put it on the seat of their Humvee, or put it in their helmet, you know, in the fighter squadron. And then when they'd see me walking down the hallway, we give the knowing nod that they were acknowledged for their awesome, whatever it was, and we would move on.   Naviere Walkewicz  18:13 Yes. And so what I'm hearing, in a really, kind of summarizing way, is leadership is personal.   Nicole Malachowski 18:19 Very. it's all about people and it's about authenticity and connections.   Naviere Walkewicz  18:25 So speaking about personal and authenticity, I'd be remiss if we didn't talk about your journey to the Thunderbirds.   Nicole Malachowski  18:31 I knew this was gonna come.   Naviere Walkewicz  18:32 It's here, and so you know it is. It's a different time. There was no woman Thunderbird pilot before you.   Nicole Malachowski 18:40 I grew up in Las Vegas, Nevada, so the Thunderbirds were part of the backdrop. I knew that the Thunderbirds, you know, as a kid, were special and were considered, you know, elite. And kind of going back to my personality, I love being told that, you know, you can't do things. And the truth is, people laugh at this, but the truth is, when I applied to be a Thunderbird, I did it because the way my career was going, I wasn't ready to, I wasn't on timeline to go to ide yet or to go to ACSC, but I had, like, a weird year kind of gap, and I didn't they didn't really know what to do with me. I didn't know what to do with them, and my husband was going to be PCs in the Nellis. This is, like, a true story. Wow. I know people want me to say, well, I had this big, long dream when I was Thunderbird. Also thought about it was always in the background. Is something that, you know, wasn't, was an option. And I, you know, because of a lot of people who put a lot of effort into me, I was indeed qualified, you know, to get in there and to give it a try. But it wasn't something that was like an ultimate goal. I did not know they had not had a woman Thunderbird pilot when I applied, did not even occur to me. Remember, I had never known an Air Force without women fighter pilots in it. That's right, that's and we had all achieved the age where we had acquired the hours needed, and it just lined up with the timing. And I'm like, Well, that would be kind of fun and different to do. And. So I always tell people, you know, when you get those butterflies in your stomach that says, This could be something cool, something different, that is your cue to go do it. Don't worry about what anybody else is saying. And so, you know, I was able to put that application in. And in fact, I was I put that application in, and when I went and told everyone I was going to apply, generally speaking, people were really tickled and happy and happy and supportive. But as the days went by, people started to think about it. I heard, you know, it's too hard to be a Thunderbird, you probably won't get picked. I mean, statistically, no one gets picked to do that. They've never had a woman before. Are you sure you want to do that and this and that? And I remember the day I turned my application in. This was back when you still had hard copies, and you still had to mail them, okay, 2005 took it over to the group commander's Chief of Staff, slid it across the desk. I was super nervous, because the voice in my head was like, Nicole, other people become Thunderbird pilots, not you. That was the other people become Thunderbird pilots, not you. What are you doing? Why are you risking this? But I kept thinking, what's the worst that's going to happen? I don't get picked, like most people don't get picked, and I go back to flying strike Eagles with my community, which I love, like life is good, right? Either way, it's a win, win. So as I slid that application across the desk, said, I'm applying to be a Thunderbird. Here's my application. I remember the staff looked up to me and said, you know Nicole, It's hard to be a Thunderbird. You know Nicole, you probably won't get picked. And the exact words were, you know Nicole, they've never had a woman before, and the colonel can only stratify one person in that moment. Let's, I think there's leadership lessons here, because this person was not trying to be mean, right? What was coming out was, I think the unconscious bias all of us have to check ourselves on every day at all ages. I think what was coming out were the cultural paradigms of the Air Force at that time. And I think what was coming out, you know, were other people's expectations about what I should or shouldn't be doing. And in that moment, the truth is, I grabbed my application and I took it back, I went across to the officers club and grabbed a beer like any good fighter pilot would, and I remember thinking, thank God I didn't put myself out there. Thank God Nicole, you know, now I'm a 30 year old captain, so I'm still a young person, you know. Thank God you didn't risk failure. Who are you to think you could be a Thunderbird, silly girl, right? And in that moment, the weirdest thing happened. And I tell this story on stage, sometimes the door opened to the officers club, and in walk the Wing Commander, Brigadier General Mark Matthews, for whatever reason, comes over and starts talking to me. Now, this is weird, right? I'm a captain. He's a brigadier general. I don't know why he was talking to me, you know, like walking amongst the people that day, or, you know, just making small talk. And so I'm trying to hold my own talking to him a little bit nervous. It's a little you're probably still feeling a little bit down from totally down. And in that moment, over walks my squadron commander, a wonderful man by the name of Dan Debree. His call sign was, trash. Get it? Trash, debris. Trash. Walks over, super excited, very supportive of my application. And he's like, Hey, General, did you know Nicole's applying to be a Thunderbird now? Man, I mean, you could have slowed down time. I was like, ixnay on the underbird Fae like, this is terrible. Neither of these guys knew that I had removed my application. And Dan's standing there all proud. He's my squadron commander supporting me. A great man again. And Mark Matthews looks down at me, general Matthews, and he goes, that's great. How's your application going? And I'm like, I looked at him, and here's what happened. I said, you know, sir, it's hard to be thunder, but I probably won't get picked. They haven't had a woman, so I don't want to waste anybody's time.   Naviere Walkewicz  23:11 Oh, you said, I said it.   Nicole Malachowski  23:13 I said all of it. And this is kind of an embarrassing story to tell, but I'm just this is the truth, right? This is the vulnerable truth of how this happened. And and he looked down at me, and I will never forget this. And I hope folks listening who have big dreams and gnarly goals remember this. He looked down at me and he said, Nicole, actually. He said, Fifi. My call sign, Fifi. Nobody wants to lead a scripted life. And he walked away and left me in extraordinarily uncomfortable silence. And those words nobody wants to lead a scripted life have become my life's mantra. Every time I get the knot in my stomach that says that dreams too big or that idea is too innovative, don't rock the boat, I remember what he said, because those words, like they lifted the weight of the world off my shoulders, told me it was okay to dream big. It was okay to buck the status quo. It was okay to be different. He was telling me, it's okay to risk failure in pursuit of personal professional growth, and it's not so much. I think he's telling you and me to write ourselves into the script. What he was saying was, don't ever write yourself out of the script. And as leaders and teammates, don't you ever write anybody else or their wild ideas out of the script, either. And so nobody wants to lead a scripted life. And I, I hope what you're hearing in these stories, and maybe what I'm realizing just chatting with you, is these little turning points, these pivot moments where these really important people, the mark Matthews, you know, the Mikey whiteheads, the Mick Jaggers, the Sue Rosses, the Kim Jamesons, they all come at that right moment. You got to be open to that you know, and and how important your actions and your words are to making or breaking somebody else's journals.   Naviere Walkewicz  24:48 Yes, yeah, so you took that application back.   Nicole Malachowski 24:52 Sure did. Sure did. I did not get the number one stratification from the colonel, but I did from the general. And. So that worked out for me. When I really started thinking about, I think I was putting myself back in the kid in high school with her brown bag lunch out on the football field watching the Thunderbirds fly over that can tend to see that those six jets smoked behind in red, white and blue, screaming over your high school. You know, you wanted to be a fighter pilot. Since you're a kid, I'm staring up at them, thinking, there's people up there. You know, I want to be one of those people. This idea that there would be a little kid watching me as a Thunderbird pilot, and maybe someday go, maybe I could fulfill whatever my dream is. Maybe I could join the Air Force too, a little girl going, maybe I could be a fighter pilot someday. And I think the gravity and the weight of the mission of the Thunderbirds started to really impact me, because it had indeed impacted me as a kid, and the idea that I could be a part of that. And I think the other thing was, and maybe this sounds cheesy or trite, but it's not, you know, sitting at Al UD, drinking my one beer at three in the morning after I land from my night combat mission, sitting with all these great Americans from all over the country, from every different background, and thinking, I could go tell their story, and that's what Thunderbirds get to do. You get to represent the world's greatest Air Force and tell the stories of these airmen who are out there getting the job done, those tech piece those crew chiefs, you know, the folks that are working at the tower, the folks in the food hall, our medical professionals, the cyber the whole thing, right? And all of a sudden it got really exciting to me, like I could go out there with this team, with this mission, and we could represent our friends with the honor and the dignity and the respect that they deserve. And I think those two things kind of collided together, and I started getting really excited about excited about this Thunderbird thing. Ended up back at Lake and Heath painfully excruciating waiting for the vinyls. And when we got back from Iraq, they give you the kind of three weeks of downtime. My husband was a gracious man and took me on a Cruise of the Baltic Sea. We're sitting in our cabin in Oslo Norway, and the phone in the cabin rings. The phone in your cabin, phone in my cabin rings. It's about 10 o'clock at night, but full sun outside, because it's summertime in Norway. And immediately we looked at each other, and both of our heart we've talked about this, both our hearts sank, because why does a phone call come to military people on vacation? It's not never it's never good. Yeah, and I was a flight commander at the time. So was he we immediately thought something disastrous had happened, an aircraft accident, a death, you know, a car accident. And we let it ring another time, and he's like, You need to pick it up. And I picked it up. And I said, Hello. And they go, is this Captain malikowski? I said, Yes. And they go standby for the commander of Air Combat Command. Oh my gosh. And I looked at my husband, and I was like, What is going on? Well, I knew this was the consolation call. There was, I think, I think there was five or six of us who had made it to finals. Three people were getting good position. The other were not. And it is tradition that the commander of Air Combat Command calls all six, coach is very gracious and professionally courteous. And so I thought this was my consolation call. So I'm waiting, and it feels like an eternity, and all of a sudden I hear Stevie there, and I said, Yes. He goes, Ron keys which was General. Ron Keyes, Commander, Air Combat Command. I'm a young captain. I'm like, you've got to be kidding me. And I go, sir, how are you? He goes. We have a pretty amazing Air Force that we can find you in the middle of the Oslo Norway fjord, don't we? I said, Yes, sir, we do. He goes. Well, I know you're on vacation, so I want to keep it simple. I want to offer you a job. And I said, Yes, sir. He goes. How would you like to be Thunderbird number three? And I said, I stayed as professional as I could in my voice, but I was looking at my husband gesticulating, jumping up and down like you're not gonna believe I said, Sir, I would absolutely love that. He goes, Okay, great. You're the next Thunderbird number three. Look forward to watching you fly and get back to your vacation. And he hung up the phone. You know, the Thunderbirds are, at that time, 125 people from 25 different career fields who came together to make that mission happen. Wow, never been in a squadron with that many high performing, highly motivated people in my life. I am still dear friends with my crew chief, still friends with people on the team. It is such a crucible experience. It's a one off, you know. Well, fast forward. Finish up the Thunderbirds. I get a phone call. He goes, it's Viking blurling. I'm like, How the heck did this guy that I met once get my phone he goes, Hey, when I was an Air Force officer, a young fighter pilot, I did acse as a White House fellow, and I think you should be a White House fellow. I said, Well, what's the White House Fellowship? So he explains it to me, and I'm like, there is no way I will get picked as one of 12 to 15 people across the United States, across all career fields, including civilians, to be a White House fellow. Colin Powell was a White House fellow. I am not a White House fellow. This is ridiculous. So I entertained his conversation. He says, I want you to think about I'm gonna call you back tomorrow, same time. Boom. Phone rings. Viking borling, you're applying to be a White House fellow, no, sir. I'm not. Third day ping. Phone calls. You're applying to be a White House fellow. Anyways, I applied to be a White House fellow. Went through that whole process, semi finals, regional panel interviews, and then the finals, and was selected to be a White House fellow. I got assigned outside of the White House to the US, General Services, Administration, yes, like, it was exciting. And I was like, this is where the nuts and bolts happen? Well, the GSA also runs what's called the office of the president elect. Between election and inauguration, the incoming president and their team needs to have a place to get ready, like our current incoming administration is doing. It's a physical office building where they make decisions about cabinet secretaries, or they get their intelligence briefings and all of that. Guess who got put on the presidential transition support team to be up close and personal for the peaceful transition of power between George Bush and Barack Obama? Wow. The extraordinary part about the White House Fellowship was most of the fellows were civilian, and I had been nothing but military since I was 17 years old and showed up at the Air Force Academy. So to be able to look at leadership and teamwork and professionalism from a completely different lens, to see how people from the education field or from healthcare would solve a problem was fascinating. You know, we in the military can look to solve problems a very specific way, and a lot of us are a little bit very specific in how we do it. And so to learn how to look at problems and solve things in different ways was extraordinary.   Naviere Walkewicz  31:23 So your career trajectory is just really incredible. Because you've kind of talked about how you've been put in these places based off of circumstance, but then when you get there, it's all about, how do you make the most of it, seize the opportunity and see what's available.   Nicole Malachowski  31:38 A lot of times, you know, as human beings, we go, Well, I don't have this, or I can't do this right now, or not resource this way, man, find a way. Yeah, ask yourself the right question. What is it I can do right now with what I have?   Naviere Walkewicz  31:49 Well, that makes me feel like that's a really good lead into kind of what circumstantially happened to you, unexpectedly. Yes, so you're medically retired from the Air Force. Do you want to talk about how that happened?   Nicole Malachowski  32:00 And sure, sure, you know, the the greatest honor of my career was serving as the commander of the 3/33 fighter squadron. I enjoyed that, and I remember also during that time being physically fit, mentally fit, spiritually fit. And I remember feeling ill in the summer of 2012 like I had the flu, but within three months, I started having severe neurological problems, so things like word finding, slurring my words, inability to read write, inability to type, dropping things with my right hand, dragging my right leg, getting lost, driving home, and I remember going into a grocery store and having a complete panic attack because I didn't know what a grocery store was or why I was in there so very Alzheimer's dementia like symptoms. So in fact, what was happening was my brain was becoming inflamed with an infection. So over the next four years, my symptoms would wax and wane. They would come and go, they would change in severity. Obviously, I could no longer fly. I was grounded, but they said, Hey, you can stay in the Air Force. You just can't fly. And I said, that's great, because honestly, I just want to lead airmen. Lead airmen and be a part of a team. So, you know, there's a lot of details, you know, to this story, but my symptom list was like 63 symptoms long, covering every system in my body. And so they cast the net wide, and that's where tick borne illness came into it. And at that time, I was in a wheelchair. I couldn't talk. My husband was wheeling me around, and I remember when the doctor said, we come on in. We have the diagnosis. We know what's wrong with her. The doctor says she'll never fly again. And my husband said, Well, how long until she's better? And she goes, Well, treatment is going to take at least two years. And it was in that moment, it wasn't that I wasn't going to fly again, that hurt. But when they said two years, I knew that the military was going to medically retire me, I knew it was over, and I couldn't speak or say anything, and I was just devastated. I remember my goal was to be the commandant of the Air Force Academy. That was my dream. And all that just came crashing, you know, crashing down. And in that moment, so for nine months I couldn't walk, talk, read or write. I spent another year and a half in rehab, and during that time, obviously went through my medical evaluation board, but I was medically retired, I fought to stay in and then I realized my body wasn't gonna let me and once I accepted that it was over, you know, I was able to move forward so radical acceptance was a hard thing to come by. But the day of my retirement, December 29 2017 came, I was home alone because I was bedridden and house bound for two years. Um, was very hurtful. Remains hurtful. How my Air Force career ended. I love the Air Force based on all the stories that I told, but this moment is very painful for me. It still is. And, you know, I thought, well, what are you going to do about it? You know, you can't. Change that you were bit by tick, can't change that you have a brain injury. What are you going to do? Girl, you know, the fighter pilot in you is not going to quit. And that's when I decided, well, I'm going to, you know, I got to do something. And the phone rang, and the phone rang, and it was during this time, a gal by the name of Buff Bucha, retired colonel, had been in a helicopter accident broke her neck in Afghanistan. She said, Hey, how you doing? I said, I'm not good. She goes talk to me, and I remember for two hours just vomiting everything out to this person I didn't really know very well. Well, she was calling from the Air Force Wounded Warrior program, wow, and the Wounded Warrior program swooped in to save me, and I ended up becoming a trained ambassador and a trained mentor, which I still am to this day. I'm able to help other airmen who are being discharged, but I just want to give a shout out to the Air Force wind Warrior Program, psychologically and mental health wise, I don't know that I would have recovered, and that I would have recovered to the place that I am today without them. And so I want for the active duty, listening for people in the reserve and the guard. It is for you, yeah, it is for everyone, and it is literally a life saving program.   Naviere Walkewicz  32:45 Maybe talk about what you've been doing then since.   Nicole Malachowski  36:16 Yeah, I do leadership consulting and professional speaking, but predominantly, that helps pay the bills, and I enjoy it. Predominantly, I do patient advocacy work at the national level, so I'm on several government boards. I'm on several nonprofit panels. We've tripled them, and IH funding through the state and like TicK Act and things like that. I'm currently on a National Academies of Science Committee. Can't talk about that because our report will come out in the spring. I hope everyone will read it. But Lyme disease, I went from being a fighter pilot to being an expert on ticks and Lyme disease. Who knew the path to success is always going to be non linear.   Naviere Walkewicz  36:49 Yes, you also mentioned you have children. You have twins. Do so how is it talk about, like family life in this new kind of in the way that you're working now, right? You're not in uniform anymore. You're still pushing amazing things forward. You're consulting what's it like being a mom?   Naviere Walkewicz  37:06 Man, it's harder, it is harder to raise 14 year old twins than it is to get shot at  in combat, I will tell you that. So you know, the person that's been missing in this whole time we've been talking is the most important person in my life, which is my husband, Paul. So we will be married. We just, yeah, just had our anniversary. 23 years. I met him in my first fighter squadron in the late 90s. He's an F-15E WSO. So we met flying together. And my biggest cheerleader, my biggest supporter, the greatest human being on Earth, is my husband, Paul.   Naviere Walkewicz  37:38 I want to talk about this resurgence, because I feel like that is really important for some of our listeners. When they're, you know, they're thinking about you said you got to know who you are and what's important to you. And how did you get to that clarity?   Nicole Malachowski 37:52 You really need to be able to answer the question, what is it I value and why? And I'm talking about your personal values, the ones that you're going to wake up with every day and go, these are my values. And so I'll tell you what mine are. Mine are courage and compassion and curiosity, and I developed those as I went through this deep thinking and deep reinvention, when I lost my career and compassion, courage and curiosity are what drive me today.   Naviere Walkewicz  38:18 We'll ask for Nicole's thoughts on reinvention, resilience and leadership. But before we do that, I'd like to take a moment and thank all of you for listening to long blue leadership. The podcast publishes on Tuesdays in both video and audio, and is available on all your favorite podcast platforms. Watch or listen to all episodes of Long blue leadership and subscribe at longblue leadership.org so we have had an incredible journey together, and really where we'd like to go. One final thought on leadership, if you might, leave your listeners with something about leadership, and I can say just from being in this short amount of time with you, your your 3 Cs are coming out in spades, your compassion, your curiosity and your courage. So thank you.   Nicole Malachowski  39:01 Thank you. You know leadership is a journey. We're always put into positions that we're supposed to grow into. Don't think you have to be perfect to be a leader. It's okay to admit when you make mistakes, it's okay to ask for help, and it's okay to have failures, as long as you overcome them. And I like to remind folks at all levels of leadership, you know that the runway behind you is always unusable. All you ever have is the runway that's in front of you.   Naviere Walkewicz  39:25 Well said, well said, Thank you so much for being on long blue leadership.   Nicole Malachowski  39:29 Thank you for having me. And here's a shout out to the current cadets that are working hard up on the hill, yeah, wishing them best and hoping they take it one day at a time.   Naviere Walkewicz  39:36 Absolutely. And for our listeners, I mean, I think that it's, it's it's certainly one thing to say, you know, you get to meet these incredible leaders, but my ask of you is to share this with your networks, because it's great if you felt something and you've had an impact in your life, but imagine the magnitude you can have by sharing some of the stories of our leaders like Nicole today with your networks and the change we can make together. So until next time, thanks for being on. Long blue leadership, thank you for joining us for this edition of long blue leadership. The podcast drops every two weeks on Tuesdays and is available on all your favorite podcast apps. Send your comments and guest ideas to us at social media@usafa.org, and listen to past episodes at longblueleadership.org.   KEYWORDS leadership, resilience, resurgence, Air Force Academy, mentorship, aviation, women in military, pilot training, overcoming adversity, personal growth, fighter pilot, mentorship, leadership, Thunderbirds, women in military, self-doubt, White House Fellowship, WASP, Air Force, personal growth, diversity, WASP, Air Force, medical retirement, resilience, leadership, Lyme Disease, tick-borne illness, self-discovery, personal values, reinvention, advocacy         The Long Blue Line Podcast Network is presented by the U.S. Air Force Academy Association and Foundation    

This week on Clear Lake Connections Podcast presented by UTMB Health: Meet Natasha Avey with Wings Over Houston Airshow.    In this week's episode Natasha Avey tells the listeners all about the 40th Anniversary Wings Over Houston Airshow coming October 26 & 27 at Ellington Airport featuring the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds. Natasha explains that this is a 501(c)(3) community event presented by the volunteer efforts of the Houston Wing, Gulf Coast Wing, and Tora! Tora! Tora! of the Commemorative Air Force, with support from the Lone Star Flight Museum, Collings Foundation-Houston based at Ellington Airport, and the Vietnam War Flight Museum. Natasha shares that this is one of the top air shows in the United States, that brings visitors to our community from all over the world. The airshow is a premier Houston event dedicated to showcasing vintage World War II aircraft, along with the thrills of modern aviation, and has supported a variety of local and national charities during its 40-year history. Natasha describes what a guest can expect at the event including the veteran owned business booths plus the aircraft that can be experienced on the ground. Natasha also shares about the Friday show just for guests with disabilities and the drive-in event. Tickets can be purchased at www.wingsoverhouston.com.

Kamala Harris and Donald Trump are gearing up to take the stage for Tuesday night’s debate in Philadelphia, where they’ll fight to sway 2024 election voters on the biggest stage in U.S. politics. The event, at 9 p.m. Eastern, will offer Americans their most detailed look at a campaign that’s dramatically changed since the last debate in June. In rapid fashion, President Joe Biden bowed out of the race after his disastrous performance, Trump survived an assassination attempt and bothsides chose their running mates. CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. (AP) — A billionaire has rocketed back into orbit, aiming to perform the first private spacewalk. Unlike his previous chartered flight, tech entrepreneur Jared Isaacman shared the cost with SpaceX this time around. Isaacman, along with a pair of SpaceX engineers and a former Air Force Thunderbirds pilot, launched before dawn Tuesday aboard a SpaceX rocket from Florida. BATON ROUGE, La. (AP) — Tropical Storm Francine churned in the Gulf of Mexico with increasing strength and is expected to reach hurricane status before making landfall in Louisiana.  DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza Strip (AP) — Palestinian officials say an Israeli strike on a crowded tent camp housing those displaced by the war in Gaza has killed at least 19 people and wounded 60. Israel says it targeted senior Hamas militants with precise munitions. Ryan Seacrest began hosting "Wheel of Fortune" following the retirement of Pat Sajak. CUPERTINO, Calif. (AP) — Apple has charged into the artificial intelligence craze with a new iPhone lineup that marks the company’s latest attempt to latch on a technology trend and transform it into a cultural phenomenon.  In other news: 9/11 victims remembered ahead of Wednesday's ceremony. Many questions still loom over timeline of Georgia school shooting. Trial begins over Texas 'Trump Train' highway confrontation. Cool weather forecast offers hope in battling intense Southern California blaze. 2 charged with soliciting attacks on minorities, officials and infrastructure on Telegram. Judge orders change of venue in trial of man charged with killing 4 University of Idaho students. New Jersey Democrat George Helmy sworn in as replacement for Menendez in the Senate. Women settle lawsuits after Yale fertility nurse switched painkiller for saline. James Earl Jones, the pioneering actor of stage and screen who lent his voice to Darth Vader, Mufasa and CNN, dies at 93. "Shogun" wins record-breaking 14 Emmys at Creative Arts ceremony as Jamie Lee Curtis gets her first. Morgan Wallen leads the 2024 Country Music Association award noms, Beyoncé's "Cowboy Carter" snubbed. Jailed Harvey Weinstein taken to NYC hospital for emergency heart surgery, his representatives say. Aaron Rodgers returns to action but not the win column, Texas moves up in the AP college football poll, the Yankees widen their lead in the American League East, the Phillies and Dodgers are now tied for the best record in the National League and the Mets grab hold of the final NL wild card spot. Tyreek Hill was not "immediately cooperative" with officers during stop, police union says. John and Matthew Gaudreau are mourned by the hockey community, family and friends at their funeral. EU's top court dismisses Apple's final appeal against order to pay Ireland 13 billion in back taxes. Kate, princess of Wales, says she'll return to public duties. Over 140 Ukrainian drones target multiple Russian regions, including Moscow, authorities say. The UN chief calls the death and destruction in Gaza the worst he's seen. Mourners attend funeral for American activist witness says was shot dead by Israeli troops. The UK hospital where a nurse was convicted of murdering 7 babies faces investigation. —The Associated Press About this program Host Terry Lipshetz is managing editor of the national newsroom for Lee Enterprises. Besides producing the daily Hot off the Wire news podcast, Terry conducts periodic interviews for this Behind the Headlines program, co-hosts the Streamed & Screened movies and television program and is the former producer of Across the Sky, a podcast dedicated to weather and climate.

In this episode: Christi Powell and Angela Gardner discuss the challenges and opportunities for women in traditionally male-dominated fields, such as construction and aviation. Our special guest, Michelle 'MACE' Curran, a former fighter pilot and combat veteran, shares her journey from a small town in Wisconsin with no aviation background to becoming a fighter pilot and a solo pilot for the Air Force Thunderbirds. Curran emphasizes the importance of perseverance, teamwork, and pushing limits both in aviation and life. She discusses the role of fitness in achieving peak performance and highlights the increasing number of women in aviation, attributing it to greater exposure and inspirational figures. Curran's transition from military to civilian life as an author and keynote speaker is driven by her desire to inspire and give back to the community. The episode also features a discussion on the key to successful teamwork and the essential nature of building trust among team members. Mace's insights are aimed at motivating students and women to believe in their potential and pursue their ambitions, regardless of the challenges they may encounter.Support the Show.

Michelle “Mace” Curran has led an impressive career as a Fighter Pilot during her 13 years in the United States Air Force. From 2019-2021, she flew as the only female pilot for the Air Force Thunderbirds and performed for millions across the country and internationally. Before joining the Thunderbirds, Michelle was a combat proven fighter pilot completing missions across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. As the Lead Solo for the Thunderbirds, Michelle realized the flying was cool, but the best part was inspiring others to overcome their fears and pursue their dreams. Since transitioning out of the military, she has founded her company, Upside Down Dreams, and is committed to empowering men and women of all ages to overcome obstacles and face their self-doubt head on. She is an author of 2 childrens' books and has been featured on several well-known media platforms, including The Kelly Clarkson Show, CBS Evening News, and Glamour. To learn more about Michelle, you can go to her website: https://macecurran.com or on Linkedin: @macecurran --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/lyndsay-dowd/support

3rd hour of the G-Bag Nation  RB Shaun Alexander Air Force Pilots Darren Woodson

One of only a handful of women to make it to the elite level of the Air Force Thunderbirds, Mace Curran is an experienced F-16 combat fighter pilot with 163 combat hours over Afghanistan in support of operations Resolute Support and Freedom's Sentinel. She has also served as an F-16 Instructor Pilot and Flight Commander at the Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base, Fort Worth, Texas. In 2022, she left active duty to found Upside Down Dreams and travels the country speaking to organizations on lessons of grit, perseverance, determination, and teamwork. Through keynotes, courses and workshops, she empowers individuals to shift their mindset to see their true potential. She defines what it is to be a modern Air Force officer for many outsiders, providing a valuable insight into the Air Force experience and showcasing the opportunities of an Air Force career. Listen to The Tony DUrso Show on VoiceAmerica Influencers Platform every Friday at 2pm Pacific or listen on Apple Podcasts or tonydurso.com/podcast.

One of only a handful of women to make it to the elite level of the Air Force Thunderbirds, Mace Curran is an experienced F-16 combat fighter pilot with 163 combat hours over Afghanistan in support of operations Resolute Support and Freedom's Sentinel. She has also served as an F-16 Instructor Pilot and Flight Commander at the Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base, Fort Worth, Texas. In 2022, she left active duty to found Upside Down Dreams and travels the country speaking to organizations on lessons of grit, perseverance, determination, and teamwork. Through keynotes, courses and workshops, she empowers individuals to shift their mindset to see their true potential. She defines what it is to be a modern Air Force officer for many outsiders, providing a valuable insight into the Air Force experience and showcasing the opportunities of an Air Force career. Listen to The Tony DUrso Show on VoiceAmerica Influencers Platform every Friday at 2pm Pacific or listen on Apple Podcasts or tonydurso.com/podcast.

Imagine soaring through the skies at breathtaking speeds, pushing boundaries, and defying limits. My guest today has not only lived this reality but has also inspired millions with her fearless pursuits. On episode #202 of The Author Factor Podcast I am having a conversation with author, Michelle "Mace" Curran who spent 13 remarkable years in the United States Air Force as an F-16 Fighter Pilot. From 2019-2021, she was the only female pilot for the Air Force Thunderbirds and performed for millions across the country and internationally. Since retiring from the military, Michelle started her company Upside Down Dreams where she provides keynotes and workshops to empower men and women of all ages to overcome obstacles and the fear of failure.Michelle just recently published her first book, Upside Down Dreams , which is an illustrated storybook written for girls with big dreams looking for a real-world heroine.Learn more about Michelle by visiting: https://macecurran.com.For more details about our short, helpful book publishing program, visit BiteSizedBooks.com.

This week Andrew talks with former US Air Force fighter pilot Michelle “MACE” Curran. Michelle spent 13 years as a fighter pilot in the US Air Force. Flying under her pilot callsign “MACE”, she flew F-16s in combat missions in Europe, Asia, & the Middle East. From 2019 to 2021, she flew as the only female pilot for the Air Force Thunderbirds — and became only the 2nd woman to fly the Lead Solo in the Thunderbirds demonstration since the team's creation in 1953. In this conversation, you'll hear actionable lessons on how to turn curiosity into progress, get more comfortable making mistakes, maximize your learning from past experiences, & so much more. If you are ready to power your personal & professional journey to new heights — then this conversation is for you.Show Highlights:(0:00) - Intro(2:14) - First time in airplane(3:20) - Adventuring as a kid(5:35) - Role of Michelle's parents(7:05) - Decision to go to ROTC(8:54) - Blending curiosity & discipline(10:16) - “Forget this FBI thing, I want to fly jets”(11:31) - Becoming a fighter pilot(14:52) - Learning to fly F-16(15:26) - Learning complex things(16:54) - Learning from mistakes(17:44) - Adapting your approach(21:58) - Debrief process(22:38) - Incremental improvement(23:22) - “Not all mistakes are created equal”(27:12) - Overcoming imposter syndrome(27:57) - What motivates Michelle now** Follow Andrew On Social Media **Twitter: @andrewhmosesInstagram: @AndrewMoses123Sign up for e-mails to keep up with Andrew's podcast at everybodypullsthetarp.com/newsletter

We are deeply saddened to report that Richard McSpadden died in an aircraft accident outside Lake Placid, New York, on Sunday afternoon. The Cessna 177 Cardinal in which Richard was in the right seat experienced an emergency after takeoff. The airplane attempted to return to the airport but failed to make the runway. Both occupants lost their lives. Richard was a very accomplished pilot, including serving as commander of the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds during his military career, and a trusted colleague, friend, son, husband, and father.  Richard is survived by his wife, Judy; his son, Grant; and his daughter, Annabel.  Our thoughts are with Richard's family at this time. The Pilot Network wants to echo the AOPA with our sincerest and heartfelt thoughts to Richard's family. He led through selfless action and was a pilot's pilot. Thank you for making us all a little better at flying airplanes; your legacy will live on through aviators everywhere. Tailwinds Rich...   --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thepilotnetwork/support

Pacific Airshow returns Friday, September 29 through Sunday, October 1 in Huntington Beach.This year, Pacific Airshow features their best lineup yet of civilian and military aviators, including the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, Canadian Forces Snowbirds and, for the first time in Huntington Beach history, the F-22 Raptor Demonstration team. Civilian performances include the Ace Maker 2-Ship T-33, the Lyon Air Museum's C-47, Red Bull Helicopter and more.The 2023 Pacific Airshow will offer an expanded General Admission section stretching nearly 1 mile from the Huntington Beach Pier to Beach Blvd.For tickets and more info on the full performer lineup, visit pacificairshow.com.

#128: Michelle “MACE” Curran led an impressive career as a Fighter Pilot during her 13 years in the United States Air Force. From 2019-2021, she flew as the only female pilot for the Air Force Thunderbirds and performed for millions across the country and internationally. Upon joining this high performing team, she rapidly discovered the best part was not the flying, but the opportunity to inspire others. Michelle was only the 2nd woman to fly as the Lead Solo in the Thunderbird demonstration since the team's creation in 1953. Before joining the Thunderbirds, Michelle was a combat-proven fighter pilot completing missions across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. As the Lead Solo Pilot for the Thunderbirds, Michelle realized this put her in a unique position to inspire and empower others to overcome their fears, pursue their dreams, and overcome adversity. Since transitioning out of the Air Force Michelle founded her company, Upside Down Dreams, where she speaks and encourages leaders, teams, businesses, and individuals to overcome obstacles and the fear of failure. On the show Michelle shares her story, growing up, becoming a pilot, overcoming imposter syndrome, humility, what makes the best the best, flying for the Thunderbirds, taking ownership, preparation, and so much more. For more on Michelle check out her website at macecurran.com and follow her on all social media platforms. Be sure to check out her new bestselling children's book Upside Down Dreams on amazon or in the link below.Book: https://www.amazon.com/Upside-Down-Dreams-Michelle-Curran/dp/1637970757 Enjoy the show! 

The West Side Nut Club Fall Festival won a prestigious award... The Owensboro Air Show is back after a brief hiatus and features the Air Force Thunderbirds... It's harvest time and traffic authorities warn drivers to look out for slow-moving farm implements on the roads...  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on Clear Lake Connections Podcast presented by UTMB Health: Meet Bill Roach, Executive Director, Wings Over Houston Airshow   In this week's episode Bill tells the listeners all about the world-famous Wings Over Houston Airshow. Bill gives an overview of the acts coming this year including the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds as the headliner and many other fan favorites. Bill discusses his journey with the Wings Over Houston Airshow and how each year is even better than the one before. Lastly, Bill encourages the listeners to become Airshow Insiders for discounted prices and to buy their tickets TODAY, as ticket prices will increase September 1st. The dates this year are October 29-30 go to this website for tickets: www.wingsoverhouston.com

Welcome to Part Two! Have you ever been curious about the person behind the captivating live announcements at airshows featuring the Blue Angels? On this episode of The Voiceover Gurus Podcast, Linda is joined by Emmy Award-winning Air Show Announcer Rob Reider to discuss his career in Air Show Announcing. With over 60 years of experience, Rob is also a reputable Narrator with an extensive list of clients. The conversation is so rich that it spans two episodes! It's the Voiceover Gurus Podcast! About Rob Reider: Rob Reider is the most sought-after announcer on the North American Air Show circuit. His talents have earned him the highest award in the air show industry, the International Council of Air Shows “Sword of Excellence.” A former midwest television personality, Rob received 5 Emmy awards for his on-air performance and musical compositions.  Rob announced his first air show in 1978 and made it his full-time vocation in 2006. Since then he's announced over 300 shows from Maine to California to Japan.  He's known in the flying world as the on-camera host of the award-winning Sporty's Pilot Shops “Learn to Fly” videos, helping thousands of people around the world to earn their pilots licenses and advanced ratings. Rob is the narrator consultant/coach for the Navy Blue Angels and the Air Force Thunderbirds demonstration teams. One of the highlights of his career was in 2020 when he was selected to announce the “Salute to Democracy Flyover on July 4th at the White House. His show business acumen, his encyclopedic aviation knowledge, his experience, and his excitement have put Rob Reider at the top of the list as the voice of many of the largest and most important air shows on the continent.   Check out Robs' Website: www.robreidervoice.com   FOR MORE INFO ON THE SHOW, PLEASE VISIT: https://voiceover.guru/ https://learnwiththegurus.com/ Linda Bruno Voice Actress  https://www.lindabruno.com Alyssa Jayson Actress and Musician http://www.alyssajayson.com

Michelle Curran was a teenager when she was mesmerized by the roar and power of military jets. Soon she was off to ROTC in college. Within just a few years, she would be at war in Afghanistan and eventually become the lead solo pilot for the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds.In this edition of "Veterans Chronicles," Maj. Curran takes us inside her role in providing "Danger Close" air support for our allies in Afghanistan as an F-16 pilot, how the missions were executed, and how enemy attacks were essentially futile.Curran then shares the unlikely way she discovered an opportunity to pursue a spot with the elite Air Force Thunderbirds, the qualities that commanders considered even more important than flying ability, and how she eventually became just the second female solo lead pilot for the Thunderbirds. She then tells us about the hard work that goes into a successful air show, just how precise the pilots need to be, and how her closest call with disaster had nothing to do with another plane.Finally, Curran desribes her new children's book, "Upside Down Dreams," which she hopes will motivate young girls and all kids to pursue their biggest dreams.

Have you ever been curious about the person behind the captivating live announcements at airshows featuring the Blue Angels? On this episode of The Voiceover Gurus Podcast, Linda is joined by Emmy Award-winning Air Show Announcer Rob Reider to discuss his career in Air Show Announcing. With over 60 years of experience, Rob is also a reputable Narrator with an extensive list of clients. The conversation is so rich that it spans two episodes! It's the Voiceover Gurus Podcast! About Rob Reider: Rob Reider is the most sought-after announcer on the North American Air Show circuit. His talents have earned him the highest award in the air show industry, the International Council of Air Shows “Sword of Excellence.” A former midwest television personality, Rob received 5 Emmy awards for his on-air performance and musical compositions.  Rob announced his first air show in 1978 and made it his full-time vocation in 2006. Since then he's announced over 300 shows from Maine to California to Japan.  He's known in the flying world as the on-camera host of the award-winning Sporty's Pilot Shops “Learn to Fly” videos, helping thousands of people around the world to earn their pilots licenses and advanced ratings. Rob is the narrator consultant/coach for the Navy Blue Angels and the Air Force Thunderbirds demonstration teams. One of the highlights of his career was in 2020 when he was selected to announce the “Salute to Democracy Flyover on July 4th at the White House. His show business acumen, his encyclopedic aviation knowledge, his experience, and his excitement have put Rob Reider at the top of the list as the voice of many of the largest and most important air shows on the continent.   Check out Robs' Website: www.robreidervoice.com   FOR MORE INFO ON THE SHOW, PLEASE VISIT: https://voiceover.guru/ https://learnwiththegurus.com/ Linda Bruno Voice Actress  https://www.lindabruno.com Alyssa Jayson Actress and Musician http://www.alyssajayson.com

Text Hawk to 66866 to become part of "Mindful Monday." Join 10's of thousands of your fellow learning leaders and receive a carefully curated email from me each Monday morning to help you start your week off right... Full show notes at www.LearningLeader.com Twitter/IG: @RyanHawk12   https://twitter.com/RyanHawk12 Notes: Michelle "Mace" Curran has led an impressive career as a Fighter Pilot during her 13 years in the United States Air Force. From 2019-2021, she flew as the only female pilot for the Air Force Thunderbirds and performed for millions across the country and internationally. Before joining the Thunderbirds, Michelle was a combat-proven fighter pilot completing missions across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. What inspired Michelle to join the Air Force? "I had a grandpa who was a lieutenant in the Navy. I went through his World War II trunk and tried on uniforms and looked at postcards. He got to travel all over the world. I grew up in a small town and I wanted to travel. I've always been drawn to flying. I hadn't done a lot of flying aside from commercially, but I loved it, so the Air Force seemed like a natural fit. I was also honestly looking for a scholarship for college, so the three things kind of came together." “C3” Comm – That's clear, concise, and correct communication. How that plays a role as a pilot and how we can use that as leaders outside of the airplane. For the solo opposing passes, each pilot is traveling at 500mph, that's 1000mph of closure toward each other. The timing that makes sure the aircraft safely pass each other at the center point directly in front of the crowd is all done through radio calls. Every call must communicate clearly, concisely, and correctly. There are a lot of benefits to having a beginner's mindset. What does Michelle say to young girls? "You have to exceed people's expectations. People are going to set expectations for you based on where you grew up, the family you came from, your gender — there are all different factors that go into that. Constantly do your best, strive for perfection, exceed those expectations, and really don't shortchange yourself. Don't set boundaries that don't really exist, that you just place there for yourself. You'll be surprised at all of the things you can do if you just keep pushing." “We wield a lot of power with our words.” Let's plant a seed of inspiration. As leaders, our words carry a lot of weight. Let's use that to help other people strive for more and potentially accomplish more than they ever thought they were capable of. What an awesome use of our power. The Debrief - It's the sacred environment of flying. Your rank doesn't matter. It's all about focusing on what happened and how we can get better. I think our companies would be better if we had consistent debriefs after a big moment to ensure we are learning from our mistakes and getting better… The person you are today is likely much different than the one you were ten years ago. The person you will be ten years from now will probably be just as different compared to who you are now. Michelle initially didn't feel capable as a fighter pilot. But she kept showing up. It's important that we have the courage to keep going even when we don't feel ready. Being a female fighter pilot, Mace was in a male-dominated career... She was often the only woman in my unit and roughly 3% of fighter pilots in the Air Force are female even thirty years after combat airframes were opened to women, Leaders and followers – A young flight lead could be in command of a general whose role is to be the wingman… Mace has written a children's book that just came out called Upside Down Dreams. It is a story written for girls with big dreams looking for a real-world heroine.  

Pete Pranica—call sign Grizz— hops into a F-16 fighter jet and takes a ride with the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds. Along the way, the longtime aviation enthusiast and Memphis Grizzlies play-by-play broadcaster attempts to fulfill a childhood dream without losing his lunch. Connect with the showGet Lost PodcastPete Pranica Joe Sills

Amelia Rose Earhart, a pilot and speaker, honors her namesake, Amelia Mary Earhart, while embracing turbulence as a catalyst for growth. Inspired by her ancestor, she navigated living up to her legacy. Overcoming doubts, she aimed to circumnavigate the globe, finding beauty in adversity. Amelia's determination to confront obstacles illuminates the power of embracing turbulence for success. Just as planes brave the skies, her story underscores the importance of facing challenges to soar. About Amelia Rose EarhartAmelia Rose Earhart, a fearless global pilot, defies limits with confidence. She paid tribute to her namesake, Amelia Mary Earhart, by circling the globe in a Pilatus PC-12NG airplane. Amid her TV reporting role, Amelia undertook pilot training, raised $2 million through partnerships, and founded the Fly With Amelia Foundation, empowering aspiring female aviators.Now a Denver-based speaker, podcast host, and artist, Amelia weaves her flight's lessons into her life. She's addressed clients like the Air Force Thunderbirds, Capital One, and Lockheed Martin. Her upcoming book, "The Ups and the Downs of Turbulence," co-authored with Kristin Clark Taylor, chronicles her journey. Memorabilia from her feat is displayed at the Wings Over the Rockies Air and Space Museum, while her generosity continues through support for women in aviation charities.Please click here to learn more about Amelia Rose Earhart.About Brad SugarsInternationally known as one of the most influential entrepreneurs, Brad Sugars is a bestselling author, keynote speaker, and the #1 business coach in the world. Over the course of his 30-year career as an entrepreneur, Brad has become the CEO of 9+ companies and is the owner of the multimillion-dollar franchise ActionCOACH®. As a husband and father of five, Brad is equally as passionate about his family as he is about business. That's why, Brad is a strong advocate for building a business that works without you – so you can spend more time doing what really matters to you. Over the years of starting, scaling and selling many businesses, Brad has earned his fair share of scars. Being an entrepreneur is not an easy road. But if you can learn from those who have gone before you, it becomes a lot easier than going at it alone.Please click here to learn more about Brad Sugars: https://bradsugars.com/Learn the Fundamentals of Success for free:The Big Success Starter: https://results.bradsugars.com/thebigsuccess-starter

Michelle, also known as MACE, led an impressive career as a Fighter Pilot during her 13 years in the United States Air Force. From 2019-2021, she flew as the only female pilot for the Air Force Thunderbirds and performed for millions across the country and internationally. Upon joining this high performing team, she rapidly discovered the best part was not the flying, but the opportunity to inspire others. Michelle was only the 2nd woman to fly as the Lead Solo in the Thunderbird demonstration since the team's creation in 1953. She realized this put her in a unique position to empower others. Find out more about Michelle at https://macecurran.com/

As a boundary-pushing around the world pilot, Amelia Rose Earhart knows exactly what it takes to venture into uncharted territory– with confidence.With the odds stacked against her, Amelia not only trained to become a pilot, but to become the type of pilot to choose to honor the person she was named after, Amelia Mary Earhart, by piloting a single-engine airplane (Pilatus PC-12NG) 28,000 Nautical Miles around the globe. To accomplish this, Amelia developed a flight plan all her own, and while reporting full-time as on air, TV helicopter reporter, completed private, instrument and commercial pilot training, crafted an entrepreneurial and strategic business plan to design, fund and market her around the world attempt, raised close to $2 million in partnerships with 28 corporations, founded and ran the Fly With Amelia Foundation, which sent numerous teenage girls to flight school, and more.Today, Amelia Rose Earhart is a full-time speaker, podcast host, and artist living in Denver, CO who incorporates the lessons of her 2014 global flight into every aspect of her professional and personal life. Amelia is excited to share the remaining funds from the Fly With Amelia Foundation to another aviation charity helping to promote women in aviation and will be sharing exciting details soon. From the Air Force Thunderbirds to the Reagan Library, to corporations like Capital One, Lockheed Martin and United Healthcare, Amelia's list of clients who trust her message of agility continues to grow.Amelia is currently submitting her manuscript, The Ups and the Downs of Turbulence, which she wrote with author Kristin Clark Taylor, during Winter of 2020. Memorabilia from Amelia's flight around the world can be found at her permanent display at Wings Over the Rockies Air and Space Museum in Denver, CO.Please click here to learn more about Amelia Rose Earhart.About Brad Sugars Internationally known as one of the most influential entrepreneurs, Brad Sugars is a bestselling author, keynote speaker, and the #1 business coach in the world. Over the course of his 30-year career as an entrepreneur, Brad has become the CEO of 9+ companies and is the owner of the multimillion-dollar franchise ActionCOACH®. As a husband and father of five, Brad is equally as passionate about his family as he is about business. That's why, Brad is a strong advocate for building a business that works without you – so you can spend more time doing what really matters to you. Over the years of starting, scaling and selling many businesses, Brad has earned his fair share of scars. Being an entrepreneur is not an easy road. But if you can learn from those who have gone before you, it becomes a lot easier than going at it alone. That's why Brad has created 90 Days To Revolutionize Your Life – It's 30 minutes a day for 90 days, teaching you his 30 years experience on investing, business and life.Please click here to learn more about Brad Sugars.Learn the Fundamentals of Success for free: The Big Success Starter: https://results.bradsugars.com/thebigsuccess-starter Join Brad's programs here: 30X Life: https://results.bradsugars.com/30xlifechallenge 30X Business: https://results.bradsugars.com/30xbusinesschallenge 30X Wealth: https://results.bradsugars.com/30xwealthchallenge 90X – Revolutionize Your Life: https://30xbusiness.com/90daystorevolutionize Brad Sugars' Entrepreneur University: https://results.bradsugars.com/entrepreneuruniversity For more information, visit Brad Sugars' website: www.bradsugars.comFollow Brad on Social Media:YouTube: @bradleysugars Instagram: @bradleysugars Facebook: Bradley J SugarsLinkedIn: Brad SugarsTikTok: @bradleysugarsTwitter: BradSugars The Big Success Podcast https://businessinnovatorsradio.com/the-big-success-podcast/Source: https://businessinnovatorsradio.com/ep-18-amelia-rose-earhart-the-big-success-podcast-with-brad-sugars

This edition features stories about an Airmen being formally charged for misconduct under the Uniform Code of Military Justice, virtual reality technology used to help Airmen prepare for deployment and lessen post traumatic stress disorder, the beginning of the performance season for the Air Force Thunderbirds, the Air Force Band Ensemble performing for children and the community in Kyrgyzstan, and improved living conditions at Joint Base Balad.

Top Gun: More Than Just a Movie? Are you a fan of Top Gun? Do you dream of being a Top Gun pilot? But have you ever considered the leadership lessons in the movie? As much as you may have enjoyed the action-packed scenes, did you unknowingly pick up some terrible leadership guidance from it? Don't let your love for the movie cloud your judgment. Join us as we delve into the leadership lessons that Top Gun has to offer. Learn what to do and what not to do when leading your team to success. So, are you ready to take your leadership skills to new heights? Let's take a closer look at Top Gun, and see what it can teach us about being a great leader. That's where we're going in the next two episodes. Our guest for the next two episodes is Michelle "Mace" Curran is a retired F16 fighter pilot.  "Mace" spent 13 years as a combat-proven F-16 fighter pilot. Her career culminated with a three-year tour flying for the Air Force Thunderbirds, where she became only the second woman in the team's history in seventy years of flying as a lead solo.  Upon leaving the military, Mace founded her company called upside down dreams, where she empowers women and men of all ages to overcome obstacles and face their fear of failure. She now inspires others outside the company cockpit as a keynote speaker and children's author. She's been featured on several well-known media platforms, including the Kelly Clarkson Show, CBS Evening News, and Glamour. Mace was a combat-proven fighter completing missions across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. She is passionate about pushing her limits, inspiring others, and changing lives.  Website https://macecurran.com Social Media https://www.facebook.com/macetbird6 https://www.linkedin.com/in/macecurran/ https://www.instagram.com/mace_curran/?hl=en  Part 2) Mining for Courage  Band on The Run... Playing with Others under Extreme Stress  Being on the Road 240 days a Year  Building Your Tight 6 in The Air and In Leadership  High Achievers who Hit the Professional Wall  The Gift of Identity Crisis  Vulnerability as a Superpower  Legacy and The Lives We Touch  Courage Mining  Uncovering The Critic Persona Curious to discover how tapping into the Anatomy of Meaning can #actualize your #business, #culture, #Leadership and #tribe DovBaron.com  "Those Who Control Meaning for The Tribe, Also Control The Movement of That Tribe" #videopodcast #leadership #leadershipdevelopment #emotionsourcecode #neuroscience #emotional #meaning #emotional #logic #culture #curiosity #humanbehavior #purpose Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Top Gun: More Than Just a Movie? Are you a fan of Top Gun? Do you dream of being a Top Gun pilot? But have you ever considered the leadership lessons in the movie? As much as you may have enjoyed the action-packed scenes, did you unknowingly pick up some terrible leadership guidance from it? Don't let your love for the movie cloud your judgment. Join us as we delve into the leadership lessons that Top Gun has to offer. Learn what to do and what not to do when leading your team to success. So, are you ready to take your leadership skills to new heights? Let's take a closer look at Top Gun, and see what it can teach us about being a great leader. That's where we're going in the next two episodes. Our guest for the next two episodes is Michelle "Mace" Curran is a retired F16 fighter pilot.  "Mace" spent 13 years as a combat-proven F-16 fighter pilot. Her career culminated with a three-year tour flying for the Air Force Thunderbirds, where she became only the second woman in the team's history in seventy years of flying as a lead solo.  Upon leaving the military, Mace founded her company called upside down dreams, where she empowers women and men of all ages to overcome obstacles and face their fear of failure. She now inspires others outside the company cockpit as a keynote speaker and children's author. She's been featured on several well-known media platforms, including the Kelly Clarkson Show, CBS Evening News, and Glamour. Mace was a combat-proven fighter completing missions across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. She is passionate about pushing her limits, inspiring others, and changing lives.  Website https://macecurran.com Social Media https://www.facebook.com/macetbird6 https://www.linkedin.com/in/macecurran/ https://www.instagram.com/mace_curran/?hl=en  Part 1) What the Top Gun Movie Got Dead Wrong  Driven by a Different Force, the Concrete Ceiling  The Justice Department, FBI, NO... Fighter Pilot!  When No One Knows the Uniform is a Halloween Costume  6 Seconds from Anxiety to Excitement  What Top Gun Got Dead Wrong  Willingness to Analyze Up and Down Regardless of Rank  Certainty Or Arrogance, Why Leaders must know and Live the Difference  Curious to discover how tapping into the Anatomy of Meaning can #actualize your #business, #culture, #Leadership and #tribe DovBaron.com  "Those Who Control Meaning for The Tribe, Also Control The Movement of That Tribe" #videopodcast #leadership #leadershipdevelopment #emotionsourcecode #neuroscience #emotional #meaning #emotional #logic #culture #curiosity #humanbehavior #purpose Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With the U.S. Navy Blue Angels launching into their 77th year, the 2023 airshow season kicked off in grand fashion at Naval Base Ventura County, Point Mugu. The event not only marked a rare occurrence for both the Blue Angels and Air Force Thunderbirds performing at the same airshow, but also the Blue Angels paying tribute to CAPT Harley H. Hall, the Team's former Flight Leader and the last naval aviator to be shot down during the Vietnam War. Honoring Boss Hall's legacy and sacrifice fifty years after his disappearance on January 27, 1973, the Blue Angels extended an invite to his son, Harley Hall II, to participate in a VIP ride in the back seat of the Team's #7 F/A-18 Super Hornet. With his name emblazoned in the famous yellow Blue Angels font beneath the canopy rail, Hall climbed into the cockpit with one goal in mind, to make his father and all those that served with him proud. At the controls of Harley's ride the afternoon of March 17, 2023 was LCDR Thomas Zimmerman, the Blue Angels Narrator and # 7 pilot, who was charged with demonstrating the full characteristics of the Super Hornet.  Enduring nausea-inducing high g-force maneuvers including the Minimum Radius Turn (MRT), Horizontal Rolls and the Carrier Break, Hall's genetic makeup prevailed as he completed the ride without passing out or getting sick.  Upon landing, Hall was greeted by the entire Blue Angels team led by CDR Alex Armatas In this brand new interview, Harley Hall II opens up about the significance of the opportunity to honor his father at Point Mugu and the internal pressure he placed on himself to ensure he represented his family, the Navy and all those that served alongside father to the best of his ability. Hall also provides insight into the weeks leading up to his VIP flight, including a bout with illness that almost jeopardized his participation at the airshow.  With great attention to detail, Hall discusses all aspects of his day with the Blues, including having Bill Switzer, a former F4 Phantom pilot that flew on Boss Hall's 1971 Blue Angels team, on site to support him. He also describes his appreciation for LCDR Zimmerman, Crew Chief Sean Donoghue and the culture of excellence displayed by the entire Blue Angels Flight Demonstration Squadron. Hall goes on to share several of the techniques he used throughout his flight to endure high g-forces without succumbing to a loss of consciousness and what it felt like to have seven times his body weight pressing him into his ejection seat. As the discussion comes to a close, Hall opens up about a moment of closure he felt in the hours that followed his ride of a lifetime. Special thanks to the Hall family, the U.S. Navy Blue Angels and the Blue Angels AssociationSupport the show

Michelle Curran has led an impressive career as a Fighter Pilot during her 13 years in the United States Air Force. From 2019-2021, she flew as the only female pilot for the Air Force Thunderbirds and performed for millions across the country and internationally. Before joining the Thunderbirds, Michelle was a combat-proven fighter pilot completing missions across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. She has a passion for pushing her limits, inspiring others, and changing lives. As the Lead Solo for the Thunderbirds, Michelle realized the flying was cool, but the best part was inspiring others to overcome their fears and pursue their dreams. Since transitioning out of the military, she has founded her company, Upside Down Dreams, and is committed to empowering men and women of all ages to overcome obstacles and the fear of failure. She has inspired thousands through her passion for breaking barriers and setting the example of what can be accomplished through handwork.   Michelle had a number of amazing insights during our conversation. Some of them include: “A big part of what I got to do in that job was inspire people” (6:55). “Most of my career I didn't think I was a good enough pilot to fly in that position” (9:30). “The pandemic acted as a catalyst for me to really reflect on what I wanted” (12:25). “I miss the really unique perspective you get on the world from a cockpit” (15:15). “It's accepted that mistakes are going to happen. You learn from them. You grow from them. It creates the psychological safety where you build that trust” (25:00). “What you though was a big mistake, to the visual naked eye… you couldn't tell” (25:40). “Chair flying is our version of visualization… It's the only way to get to the level of proficiency that you need” (26:30). “You want to put in all the preparation you can so you get as close to perfect as possible. You're striving for perfect. That's your target. But we would always say we never have a perfect flight” (30:35). “The whole mission is to recruit, retain, and inspire” (38:20). “I always enjoyed being creative, and there's not always a ton of space in the military for creativity” (40:30). “Having gender diversity on the team 100% was making the Thunderbirds better able to do their overall mission” (42:05). “There's some risk that comes to sticking out” (43:20). “My identity as a young pilot was totally wrapped up in my achievements” (48:20). “There's a lot more to a person than just what they accomplish” (49:05). “My biggest fear was failure for the longest time” (49:15). “Society really condemns quitters” (58:00). “Something you thought would be the ultimate outcome might not take shape like you imagined” (58:30). “Quitting that opened up space for all of these other amazing things that ended up being much more fulfilling and much more of a better fit that would have never been options had I not quit” (59:50).   Additionally, you can check out Michelle's website here. I'd also encourage you to connect with her on Instagram and LinkedIn. Lastly, you can pre-order Michelle's children's book, Upside Down Dreams, here. Thank you so much to Michelle for coming on the podcast! I wrote a book called “Shift Your Mind” that was released in October of 2020, and you can order it on Amazon and Barnes and Noble. Additionally, I have launched a company called Strong Skills, and I encourage you to check out our new website https://www.strongskills.co/. If you liked this episode and/or any others, please follow me on Twitter: @brianlevenson or Instagram: @Intentional_Performers. Thanks for listening.

In Daytona Richard Petty caused a little bit of stir when he said he agreed with only 50 percent of the changes being made by Jimmie Johnson, who took at ride with the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds while in Florida. Plus Joey Logano jokes about bribing a NASCAR official.

The female Top Gun and hero Michelle Curran talks about her amazing journey Michelle Curran is a former United States Air Force (USAF) major and a pilot in the USAF Air Demonstration Squadron, or Thunderbirds. Combat Veteran, Former F-16 Fighter Pilot, & Lead Solo AF Thunderbirds   Michelle Curran has led an impressive career as a Fighter Pilot during her 13 years in the United States Air Force. From 2019-2021, she flew as the only female pilot for the Air Force Thunderbirds and performed for millions across the country and internationally. Michelle was also named the Distinguished Alumna of the Year by the University of St. Thomas in 2021. She has been featured on several well-known media platforms, including The Kelly Clarkson Show, CBS Evening News, and Glamour.   Before joining the Thunderbirds, Michelle was a combat proven fighter pilot completing missions across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. She has a passion for pushing her limits, inspiring others, and changing lives. As the Lead Solo for the Thunderbirds, Michelle realized the flying was cool, but the best part was inspiring others to overcome their fears and pursue their dreams. Since transitioning out of the military, she has founded her company, Upside Down Dreams, and is committed to empowering men and women of all ages to overcome obstacles and the fear of failure. She has inspired thousands through her passion for breaking barriers and setting the example of what can be accomplished through handwork.   When Michelle isn't speaking, she volunteers as part of the Veteran's Outdoor Advocacy Group, spends time with her stepson and husband rock climbing, and pursues her mountaineering goals. Michelle and her family enjoy their home city of Las Vegas as a hub to adventure from.  

In this episode of The Relentless, host Kristen Meinzer is joined by, not one, but two fearless Michelles who know that to be a successful leader, you need to take risks and have a strong support system.  First, she speaks with Michelle “Mace” Curran, a former F-16 fighter pilot and the second woman to fly as Lead Solo in the Air Force Thunderbirds. Now an entrepreneur, Curran has made it her mission to empower others to make bold and brave choices. Afterwards, Kristen talks with Michelle Fermin, Team Lead of the Fermin Group at Century 21 North East. An expert, on-the-ground team builder, Fermin shares her secret to being a good leader: inspire and be inspired by those around you. Guests Michelle “Mace” Curran: Combat Veteran, Former Thunderbird & Fighter Pilot Michelle Fermin: Team Lead of the Fermin Group, Century 21 North East  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode, Kristen is joined by, not one, but two fearless Michelles who know that to be a successful leader, you need to take risks and have a strong support system.  First, she speaks with Michelle “Mace” Curran, a former F-16 fighter pilot and the second woman to fly as Lead Solo in the Air Force Thunderbirds. Now an entrepreneur, Curran has made it her mission to empower others to make bold and brave choices. Afterwards, Kristen talks with Michelle Fermin, Team Lead of the Fermin Group at Century 21 North East. An expert, on-the-ground team builder, Fermin shares her secret to being a good leader: inspire and be inspired by those around you. Guests Michelle “Mace” Curran: Combat Veteran, Former Thunderbird & Fighter Pilot Michelle Fermin: Team Lead of the Fermin Group, Century 21 North East  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode, Kristen is joined by, not one, but two fearless Michelles who know that to be a successful leader, you need to take risks and have a strong support system.  First, she speaks with Michelle “Mace” Curran, a former F-16 fighter pilot and the second woman to fly as Lead Solo in the Air Force Thunderbirds. Now an entrepreneur, Curran has made it her mission to empower others to make bold and brave choices. Afterwards, Kristen talks with Michelle Fermin, Team Lead of the Fermin Group at Century 21 North East. An expert, on-the-ground team builder, Fermin shares her secret to being a good leader: inspire and be inspired by those around you. Guests Michelle “Mace” Curran: Combat Veteran, Former Thunderbird & Fighter Pilot Michelle Fermin: Team Lead of the Fermin Group, Century 21 North East  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Michelle Curran has led an impressive career as a Fighter Pilot during her 13 years in the United States Air Force. From 2019-2021, she flew as the only female pilot for the Air Force Thunderbirds and performed for millions across the country and internationally. Michelle was also named the Distinguished Alumna of the Year by the University of St. Thomas in 2021. She has been featured on several well-known media platforms, including The Kelly Clarkson Show, CBS Evening News, and Glamour. Before joining the Thunderbirds, Michelle was a combat proven fighter pilot completing missions across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. She has a passion for pushing her limits, inspiring others, and changing lives. As the Lead Solo for the Thunderbirds, Michelle realized the flying was cool, but the best part was inspiring others to overcome their fears and pursue their dreams. Since transitioning out of the military, she has founded her company, Upside Down Dreams, and is committed to empowering men and women of all ages to overcome obstacles and the fear of failure. She has inspired thousands through her passion for breaking barriers and setting the example of what can be accomplished through handwork. When Michelle isn't speaking, she volunteers as part of the Veteran's Outdoor Advocacy Group, spends time with her stepson and husband rock climbing, and pursues her mountaineering goals. Michelle and her family enjoy their home city of Las Vegas as a hub to adventure from.   Intro Hello, everyone! Marty Schulting and Michelle Curran are on today's show. Today, we talk about their journeys starting in small towns, Michelle's experience as a minority in the field, living with the adventure mindset, moving on into the next phase of life, overcoming imposter syndrome, the catalytic moments that have changed their lives, and their most memorable flights. Let's dive in! In this Episode you'll learn: [10:53] Michelle's story. [11:46] The Thunderbirds. [12:55] Marty's story. [14:44] Coming from a small town. [22:34] Channeling your focus. [25:47] The adventure mindset. [28:02] Their most uncomfortable events. [36:50] Feeling the need to move on. [40:45] Imposter syndrome. [47:20] Searching for the next phase. [48:32] Advice to their younger selves. [53:50] Talking to their future selves. [60:06] Focusing on what really matters. [63:24] The moment that changed them. [73:05] Most memorable flight. [76:10] Words of wisdom.   Quotes: “The key to progress is having the courage to start something when you're not ready, but believing in yourself enough to know you'll figure it out as you go.” [43:24] “If you really wanted to, you would.” [47:05] “All those doubts and fears that you have, everyone is experiencing.” [49:09] “If it's inevitable, it's immediate.” [50:32] “Everything is trash.” [58:21] “Nothing really matters except the relationships that you carry forward with your people.” [58:30] “Every decision you make costs you something. The cost of stagnating is always a bigger burden.” [77:07] “Getting uncomfortable is key.” [78:06]   Links Mentioned:  Connect with Michelle: Facebook:       Michelle Curran. Instagram:       @mace_curran. Linkedin:          Michelle Curran. Website:                      macecurran.com.   Connect with Marty: LinkedIn: Marty Schulting.   Message Sara! Instagram:       @saraschultingkranz Facebook:       Sara Schulting-Kranz Email:              sara@saraschultingkranz.com Website:                      saraschultingkranz.com

This episode, Kristen is joined by, not one, but two fearless Michelles who know that to be a successful leader, you need to take risks and have a strong support system.  First, she speaks with Michelle “Mace” Curran, a former F-16 fighter pilot and the second woman to fly as Lead Solo in the Air Force Thunderbirds. Now an entrepreneur, Curran has made it her mission to empower others to make bold and brave choices. Afterwards, Kristen talks with Michelle Fermin, Team Lead of the Fermin Group at Century 21 North East. An expert, on-the-ground team builder, Fermin shares her secret to being a good leader: inspire and be inspired by those around you. Guests Michelle “Mace” Curran: Combat Veteran, Former Thunderbird & Fighter Pilot Michelle Fermin: Team Lead of the Fermin Group, Century 21 North East  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of Between Two Wings we talk with Michelle “MACE” Curran, who flew as a Lead Solo for the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds'. Learn what led her to become a motivational speaker after a successful career in the military, how the Thunderbirds selection process became more challenging during her time with the team, and how their series of flights across the U.S. at the height of COVID-19 lockdowns in 2020 all started with a group text and why it was some of the most stressful flying of her career. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fHsxFFnizqM

In This Episode You Will Learn About:  Pushing through doubt Seeing your Inner strength Embracing vulnerability Resources: Website: macecurran.com Email: michelle@macecurran.com  LinkedIn: Michelle “MACE” Curran  Instagram & Twitter: @mace_curran Overcome Your Villains is Available NOW! Order here: https://overcomeyourvillains.com  If you haven't yet, get my first book Confidence Creator Show Notes:  Imposter syndrome is relentless but you can keep the doubt at bay! How is this possible? With the insights of my incredible guest, Michelle “Mace” Curran, the former Lead Solo for the Air Force Thunderbirds! She understands being comfortable with fear, flying upside down in formation at mach 8 speeds! She will teach us how to find our inner strength and put imposter syndrome away FOR GOOD! Foster trust! Be vulnerable! And always make the BOLD choice!  About The Guest: Michelle Curran has led an impressive career as a Fighter Pilot during her 13 years in the United States Air Force. From 2019-2021, she flew as the only female pilot for the Air Force Thunderbirds and performed for millions across the country and internationally. Since transitioning out of the military, she has founded her company, Upside Down Dreams, and is committed to empowering men and women of all ages to overcome obstacles and the fear of failure. She has inspired thousands through her passion for breaking barriers and setting the example of what can be accomplished through hard work. If You Liked This Episode You Might Also Like These Episodes: ​​How To Show Up For YOURSELF, With Heather!   Get UNSTUCK From Your Negative Thoughts with Trish Blackwell Top-Ranked Podcast Host & Confidence Coach Become RADICALLY Confident With Lisa Bilyeu Co-Founder Of Quest Nutrition & Impact Theory   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The way to find Success and turn it into significance in life is not easy. But once we answer 'Why', figuring out the how becomes clear and simple. Everything else falls into place. Join Jen and her special guest Dan Clark, founder and CEO of a multi-million dollar international communications company. Listen along as Dan shares why finding your 'Why' is so important for your journey to success! Are you a successful professional, ready to share your story? Email admin@jenduplessis.com to get scheduled! _____________________________________________________ Learn more about Dan BIO: DAN CLARK is founder and CEO of a multi-million dollar international communications company; University Professor; High Performance Business Coach; Podcast Host; Gold Record Songwriter; Film Maker; New York Times Best Selling Author of 37 books; a Primary Contributing Author to the Chicken Soup For The Soul series; and an Award Winning Athlete who fought his way back from a paralyzing injury that cut short his football career. Dan has been inducted into the Professional Speakers Hall of Fame; was Named on e of the Top Ten Motivational Speakers In The World ; and has spoken to more than 6000 audiences, to over 6 million people, in 73 countries, to most of the Fortune 500, Super Bowl Champions, the United Nations, and to our military combat troops in Iraq, Afghanistan, Europe, Asia and Africa. Dan has appeared on over 500 television and radio shows including Oprah and Glenn Beck; and has been featured in Success Magazine, Forbes, Entrepreneur, Inc, Sports Illustrated, Millionaire and the Mayo Clinic Journal. Clark's inspiring life includes soaring to the edge of space in a U2 Spy Plane; flying fighter jets with the Air Force Thunderbirds; racing automobiles at Nur-burg-ring; serving on the Olympic Committee and carrying the Olympic Torch in the Winter Games; receiving the United States Distinguished Service Medal-America's Highest Civilian Award presented by the Secretary of the Air Force; and most importantly - being named Utah Father of the year. Get in touch with Dan Clark: LN IG FB WEBSITE NEW BOOK - The Art of Significance: Achieving the Level Beyond Success Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

-Michelle Curran has led an impressive career as a Fighter Pilot during her 13 years in the United States Air Force. From 2019-2021, she flew as the only female pilot for the Air Force Thunderbirds and performed for millions across the country and internationally.-Before joining the Thunderbirds, she was a proven combat fighter pilot completing missions across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. -Since transitioning out of the military, she has founded her company, Upside Down Dreams, and is committed to empowering men and women of all ages to overcome obstacles and the fear of failure. She has inspired thousands through her passion for breaking barriers and setting the example of what can be accomplished through handwork. -In 2021, she was named the Distinguished Alumna of the Year by the University of St. Thomas and has been featured on several well-known media platforms including The Kelly Clarkson Show, CBS Evening News, and Glamour. FirstNet Built with AT&T:http://www.firstnet.com/healthandwellnessDownload the O2X Tactical Performance App:app.o2x.comLet us know what you think:Website: http://o2x.comIG: https://instagram.com/o2xhumanperformance?igshid=1kicimx55xt4f 

Mace Curran has led an impressive career as a Fighter Pilot during her 13 years in the United States Air Force. From 2019-2021, she flew as the only female pilot for the Air Force Thunderbirds and performed for millions across the country and internationally. Upon joining this high performing team, she rapidly discovered the best part was not the flying, but the opportunity to inspire others. Michelle was only the 2nd woman to fly as the Lead Solo in the Thunderbird demonstration since the team's creation in 1953. She realized this put her in a unique position to empower others. In this episode she shares her stories of unbelievable flying, facing fears, and blazing her own path against the odds.

Michelle “Mace” Curran is known for her impressive thirteen-year career as a fighter pilot flying F-16s. She went on to serve three years as the only female pilot for Air Force's elite demonstration squadron, the Thunderbirds, where she was only the second woman to fly as the Lead Solo in the Thunderbird demonstration since the team's creation in 1953. It may seem like Michelle always was self-assured and confident, but throughout her journey, Michelle faced feelings of self-doubt, imposter syndrome, and lack of confidence. Her story is one of grit, perseverance, and determination. She recently realized the true gift flight gave her—the ability to help and inspire others to chase their dreams. She now speaks at organizations around the nation to share the lessons she's learned about overcoming obstacles and gaining self-confidence.   In this episode, Sylvia and Michelle talk about Michelle's path to becoming a fighter pilot, the experience of being a Thunderbird during the pandemic, the flyover at the Superbowl, the power of change to enable dreams, the birth of "Upside Down Dreams", and why she views empathy as her superpower. Topics Include: - Navigating college and joining ROTC- Experience learning to fly and the challenges of initial flight screening - Confidence and imposter syndrome - What can you learn from the opportunity to change- Advice for people experiencing setbacks - Physical stresses of being an F16 pilot - Relationships and dating as a pilot- Importance of debriefing and how this transfers to other areas of life - Michelle's transition into public speaking - Upside Down Dreams- Empathy as a superpower - And other topics…Michelle “Mace” Curran led an impressive career as a Fighter Pilot during her 13 years in the United States Air Force. From 2019-2021, she flew as the only female pilot for the Air Force Thunderbirds and performed for millions across the country and internationally. Michelle was only the second woman to fly as the Lead Solo in the Thunderbird demonstration since the team's creation in 1953. In 2022, Michelle left active duty to found Upside Down Dreams, where she travels the country speaking to organizations on lessons of grit, perseverance, determination, and teamwork. She's made appearances on media such as The Kelly Clarkson Show, Glamor, and CBS Evening News, among others.  Resources Mentioned:Nowhere for Very Long by Briana Madia: https://www.amazon.com/Nowhere-Very-Long-Unexpected-Unconventional/dp/0063047985 Michelle's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mace_curran/ Michelle's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-curran5/ Michelle's Website: https://macecurran.com/Stay ConnectedSignup for AIR BORN, our monthly newsletter! A letter from Sylvia will show up in your inbox, with links to her latest conversations and insights. Be bold, be brave, and fly.Website – https://www.whenwomenfly.com/Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Pinterest – @whenwomenflyWrite to us at  – hello@whenwomenfly.com

Dan Clark is founder and CEO of a multi-million dollar international communications company;  University Professor;  High Performance Business Coach;  Podcast Host;  Gold Record Songwriter;  Film Maker;  New York Times Best Selling Author of 37 books;  a Primary Contributing Author to the Chicken Soup For The Soul series;  and an Award Winning Athlete who fought his way back from a paralyzing injury that cut short his football career.    Dan has been inducted into the Professional Speakers Hall of Fame;  was Named one of the Top Ten Motivational Speakers In The World;  and has spoken to more than 6000 audiences,  to over 6 million people,  in 73 countries,  to most of the Fortune 500,  Super Bowl Champions,  the United Nations,  and to our military combat troops in Iraq, Afghanistan, Europe, Asia and Africa. Dan has appeared on over 500 television and radio shows including Oprah and  Glenn Beck;  and has been featured in  Success Magazine,  Forbes,  Entrepreneur,  Inc,  Sports Illustrated,  Millionaire and the  Mayo Clinic Journal. Clark's inspiring life includes soaring to the edge of space in a U2 Spy Plane;  flying fighter jets with the Air Force Thunderbirds;  racing automobiles at Nur-burg-ring;  serving on the Olympic Committee and carrying the Olympic Torch in the Winter Games;  receiving the United States Distinguished Service Medal - America's Highest Civilian Award presented by the Secretary of the Air Force;  and most importantly - being named Utah Father of the year.Join us as we talk about right practices as we strive to be leaders for our families and lead lives of significance and pass the most needed values onto those we meet and lead. Dan Clark's story telling will leave you wanting to hear more, read more and meet the man Dan Clark.