From Fighter Pilot to Fearless Leader: Michelle “Mace” Curran

#thePOZcast is proudly brought to you by Fountain - the leading enterprise platform for workforce management. Our platform enables companies to support their frontline workers from job application to departure. Fountain elevates the hiring, management, and retention of frontline workers at scale.To learn more, please visit: https://www.fountain.com/?utm_source=shrm-2024&utm_medium=event&utm_campaign=shrm-2024-podcast-adam-posner.Thanks for listening, and please follow us on Insta @NHPTalent and www.youtube.com/thePOZcastFor all episodes, please check out www.thePOZcast.com SummaryIn this engaging conversation, Michelle "MACE" Curran, a combat veteran and former fighter pilot, shares her journey from a small town in Wisconsin to becoming one of the few women to fly with the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds. She discusses the challenges of overcoming fear, self-doubt, and imposter syndrome, particularly as a woman in a male-dominated field. Michelle emphasizes the importance of accountability, resilience, and the power of perspective in achieving success. Her new book, 'Flipside,' aims to help others turn fear into fuel and embrace their potential. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Michelle Mays-Corinne02:22 Early Life and Influences04:46 The Journey to Becoming a Fighter Pilot08:10 Overcoming Fear and Self-Doubt09:08 The Rigorous Path to Flight School11:49 First Solo Flight Experience12:57 Challenges of Being a Female Fighter Pilot15:42 Navigating Gender Dynamics in the Military18:32 Imposter Syndrome and Identity Crisis20:00 The Origin of the Call Sign 'MACE'28:03 Experiencing Active Combat29:49 Joining the Thunderbirds35:59 The Importance of Accountability37:40 Transitioning from the Military to Civilian Life40:07 The Purpose of 'Flipside' Book43:33 Practical Tools for Overcoming Fear45:48 Evolving Relationship with Fear48:11 Defining Success in Life49:57 Conclusion and Future Endeavors