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/thePOZcast For all episodes, please check out www.thePOZcast.com  Summary In 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.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Michelle Mays-Corinne 02:22 Early Life and Influences 04:46 The Journey to Becoming a Fighter Pilot 08:10 Overcoming Fear and Self-Doubt 09:08 The Rigorous Path to Flight School 11:49 First Solo Flight Experience 12:57 Challenges of Being a Female Fighter Pilot 15:42 Navigating Gender Dynamics in the Military 18:32 Imposter Syndrome and Identity Crisis 20:00 The Origin of the Call Sign 'MACE' 28:03 Experiencing Active Combat 29:49 Joining the Thunderbirds 35:59 The Importance of Accountability 37:40 Transitioning from the Military to Civilian Life 40:07 The Purpose of 'Flipside' Book 43:33 Practical Tools for Overcoming Fear 45:48 Evolving Relationship with Fear 48:11 Defining Success in Life 49:57 Conclusion and Future Endeavors