Building Confidence When You Don’t Feel Ready

from XO Conversations · host michelle mace curran, Rishma Walji

You don’t have to be fearless to be brave.In this episode of XO Conversations, Dr. Rishma Walji sits down with Michelle “Mace” Curran, former U.S. Air Force Thunderbird fighter pilot and author of The Flip Side, to explore how courage really works — in the air and in life.From blacking out mid-flight at nine times the force of gravity to performing in front of millions as one of the few women fighter pilots in the world, Michelle’s story is about more than speed and precision. It’s about what happens after the fear hits — and how to move anyway.Together, they dive into:✈️ What fighter jets taught her about failure and control💭 How to separate self-worth from performance🪞 Why courage isn’t the absence of fear — it’s the pause before reaction🌱 How to build confidence through recovery, not perfection💡 The real meaning of starting before you’re readyWhether you’re standing at the edge of a big decision or simply craving more confidence in everyday life, this conversation will remind you that bravery starts with one small, honest step.🎧 Listen if you’re ready to:Overcome self-doubt and imposter feelingsReframe failure as feedbackBuild courage in uncertaintyLearn from one of the few women fighter pilots in the world Watch on YouTube: Learn more: macecurran.comMore Resources: livingxo.com/resources Engage & Connect:Want more insights, tips, and personal stories? Subscribe to our newsletter for exclusive content and updates on upcoming episodes.Gifts for Listeners:Take your first step towards an extraordinary life with our FREE resources. Check out our free quiz at livingxo.com/quiz and plot your current decision-making process. Discover actionable steps to move closer to your goals.Grab my FREE gratitude challenge: livingxo.com/gratitudeDownload my FREE handout 5 Must-Ask Questions before making a decision livingxo.com/questionsFREE workbook to help you figure out what you really want (not what you think you should want): livingxo.com/mygoals p.s. If you found value in this episode, please share and leave a 5 star rating and review on your preferred podcast platform!

What this episode covers

She flew at 500 mph in the world’s elite fighter jets. Now she teaches what fear really means. Michelle “Mace” Curran joins Dr. Rishma Walji to share how to find courage, build confidence, and start before you feel ready.

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Building Confidence When You Don’t Feel Ready

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This episode is 53 minutes long.

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This episode was published on November 24, 2025.

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