This compilation episode is for mothers, daughters, sisters, friends, and women everywhere who are challenged by work, life, and everything in between. It’s for women pushing to make a difference amid pressure and self-doubt and for those who need support along the way. It’s for anyone who has felt vulnerable but still found the courage to push forward. It is for you. In this special episode, we are featuring four inspiring guests who talk about creating resilience in a high-pressure world, the need to pause and focus on mental health, and how to find happiness and balance amid life’s most difficult challenges.Dr. Edy Greenblatt, a Harvard-trained educator, transformational coach, entrepreneur, and aerial artist, talks about the myth of work-life balance and how to handle the things that restore and deplete us.Shaesta Waiz, the first female certified civilian pilot from Afghanistan and the youngest woman to fly solo around the world in 2017, on the need to pause, regroup, and reset after big accomplishments instead of rushing to the next big thing, as well as eliminating the stigma around mental health in aviation.Mandy Hickson, motivational speaker, entrepreneur, and former royal Air Force Pilot of the fast-jet Tornado, discusses her #1 tool for dealing with high-pressure situations and the importance of acting how we want to feel. Nikki Stone, the first American inverted aeriel skier to win gold at the Olympics, talks about the false sense of security that accomplishments bring and how true happiness must be found in all you do – even in moments of failure.This episode challenges the bounds of what’s expected from us and shines a light on what we all bring to the table. I hope it helps you find balance, reflect, and take inventory of the strength you carry every day, no matter the circumstances.Topics Include:- Different ways to cultivate inner strength- Identifying and managing what restores and depletes you - The need to pause and process your past before focusing on a new goal- The taboo around mental health in aviation- Real tools for handling high-pressure situations- How to shift your feelings through actions- Finding happiness in what you do, regardless of the challenges- And more… Resources Mentioned:Episode 29: Dr. Edy GreenblattEpisode 58: Shaesta WaizEpisode 91: Mandy HicksonEpisode 02: Nikki StoneRestore Yourself, by Dr. Edy Greenblatt https://www.amazon.com/Restore-Yourself-Antidote-Professional-Exhaustion/dp/0981929915 When Turtles Fly,by Nikki Stone: https://www.amazon.com/When-Turtles-Fly-Secrets-Successful/dp/1600376754Stay Connected:Drop Us A Message on PodInbox: https://podinbox.com/whenwomenflyEmail: hello@whenwomenfly.comWebsite: https://www.whenwomenfly.com/Socials: @whenwomenflySignup for AIR BORN, our monthly newsletter! A letter from Sylvia will show up in your inbox, with links to her latest conversations and insights.

Our culture repeatedly tells us that the goal is to be the best, and to be the best you need talent or perseverance... but this message could be misleading. What if success isn't found in being the best but in becoming the best? What if becoming the best led to talent, perseverance, and hope instead of the other way around? In this short solo episode, Sylvia flips the script by discussing how becoming the best is truly where our story, growth, and success lie. She joins us to talk about pushing through rejection, doing the work, living the ups and downs, and learning from the messes to become the most talented version of our true selves. In this episode, Sylvia talks about:- Noticing how seasonal changes affect work, goals, and adventures- The importance of facing rejection with perseverance- The power of persistence- How luck and relationships play a part in being the best- Becoming talented and persistent through hard work, grit, failure, and reflection- And more…Stay Connected:Drop Us A Message on PodInbox: https://podinbox.com/whenwomenflyEmail: hello@whenwomenfly.comWebsite: https://www.whenwomenfly.com/Socials: @whenwomenflySignup for AIR BORN, our monthly newsletter! A letter from Sylvia will show up in your inbox, with links to her latest conversations and insights.

Welcome to Episode 100 of When Women Fly! To celebrate we go back to where it all began,  Episode 1 with skydiver, life coach and writer - the amazing Melanie Curtis. True success—the kind you can sustain over time—demands a different relationship with ambition and action. Mel takes a deep dive into serving a higher purpose and how that gives meaning to life, a healthier, more sustainable model rooted in elevating the human condition.  We reflect on the last 2 years, current lives and future goals. Melanie Curtis has jumped out of an airplane over 12,000 times, written three books, and co-founded the all-women Highlight Pro Skydiving Team. She’s also a vulnerable person who gets nervous in front of a new crowd, has experienced extreme heartbreak, and struggled for a long time to find a sense of belonging within her home community. Melanie is a sought-after life coach, podcast host, speaker, author, professional skydiver, and entrepreneur. She is a champion for growth, healing, and inclusion and currently serves as the Executive Director of the Women’s Skydiving Network nonprofit.In this episode, Sylvia and Melanie talk about:- How uncontrollable situations teach you agility, compassion, and resilience - Using skydiving to elevate women, amplify ideas, and inspire others- Showing up to new places and listening to different viewpoints- How to decide if something is worth your time and effort- Learning how to spot and listen to your intuition- The importance of identifying and eliminating limiting beliefs - Melanie's book How to Fly: Life Lessons from a Professional Skydiver- Embracing the unexpected- Leaving your zone of confidence to grow- Melanie’s struggle to feel at home in her community and how she overcame itMelanie Curtis is a sought-after consultant, coach, speaker, author, and entrepreneur with over 12,000 skydives under her belt. She is also the co-host of the Trust the Journey podcast, Executive Director of the Women’s Skydiving Network nonprofit, and co-founder of the Highlight Pro Skydiving Team. As a leader in skydiving and professional development, Melanie has set world records and been mentioned in Forbes, Thrive Global, and CBS Sunday Morning. She has also authored three books: One Positive Thought Can Change Everything, With Our Whole Broken Hearts, and How to Fly.Resources Mentioned:How to Fly, by Melanie Curtis: https://www.amazon.com/How-Fly-Lessons-Professional-Skydiver/dp/B097RZ9C93  Mark Brand LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-brand-92916867/?originalSubdomain=ca  Eat, Pray, Love, by Elizabeth Gilbert: https://www.amazon.com/Eat-Pray-Love-Elizabeth-Gilbert-audiobook/dp/B000FDFY9O Connect with Melanie: Website: www.melaniecurtis.com Instagram: @melaniecurtis11LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melanie-curtis-74ab3540/  Trust the Journey podcast: : https://trustthejourney.today/Stay Connected:Drop Us A Message on PodInbox: https://podinbox.com/whenwomenflyEmail: hello@whenwomenfly.comWebsite: https://www.whenwomenfly.com/Socials: @whenwomenfly

This is an episode for all women everywhere. If you are finding motherhood hard, this episode is for you. If you are finding it hard to mother yourself, this episode is for you. If you aren't sure motherhood is right for you, this episode is for you too.In this special compilation, we are featuring five rockstar guests who tell their stories of becoming moms.  Sonya Looney, professional mountain biker and entrepreneur, talks about shifting her perspective and finding out what's really important in life.Kikkan Randall, Olympic Gold Medalist in nordic skiing and cancer survivor, on how having a child made her more in love with her sport, changed her body, and allowed her to come back stronger than ever. Kimmy Fasani, pro snowboarder, entrepreneur, and cancer survivor, on the myths of motherhood and the realities of balancing work and family life.Belinda Baggs, environmental surf activist and ambassador for Patagonia, discusses sharing her passion with her son and what it was like to go from never wanting kids to becoming a mom. And Marissa Colclasure, first Officer Pilot, skydiver, and Wingwalker, talks about the power of doing something that sets your heart on fire while the kids are watching. This is an episode about self-discovery and self-actualization. I hope this compilation raises questions and provides support for you, wherever you are on your journey.Topics Include:- Finding clarity on the important things in life- Questioning the value of "achievements"- Deciding to have kids or not- Deciding when to have kids- How pregnancy affects our bodies- Myths of motherhood- The realities of balancing work and family life- Sharing your passions with your kids- And other topics... Resources Mentioned:Episode 87: Sonya LooneyEpisode 22: Kikkan RandallEpisode 55: Kimmy FasaniEpisode 8: Belinda Baggs Episode 36: Marissa ColclasureStay Connected:Drop Us A Message on PodInbox: https://podinbox.com/whenwomenflyEmail: hello@whenwomenfly.comWebsite: https://www.whenwomenfly.com/Socials: @whenwomenflySignup for AIR BORN, our monthly newsletter! A letter from Sylvia will show up in your inbox, with links to her latest conversations and insights.

Archetypes. Fleeing. Freedom. Flight. And the roles we play. How do we break out of the limiting versions? And why has it always been important for women to express authentic and uncut versions of themselves.Let's take a deeper look at women who fly, modern feminism, and how adventurous women are stitched into a narrative about freedom and control ranging widely through myth, religion, and iconography - this story of 'sky-going females'.In this episode, Sylvia talks to Serinity Young PhD about her astonishing study into women and flight chronicled in the 2018 book, Women Who Fly: Goddesses, Witches, Mystics, and other Airborne Females. To take the concept of airborne women and unfolds a deep and thought-provoking investigation into the recurrent motif of women free from earthly constraints and empowered with the ability of flight, Serinity speaks to a timeless human aspiration to be unbound, free, and powerful.From Sanskrit myths and apsaras to the Wonder Woman comics, from Dante's guide in Paradise (the winged Beatrice) and Freud's interpretation of dreams of flying, to the winged goddess of victory in Greece, Serinity masterfully weaves together a global history of women in flight. She talks about the symbolism of fleeing - by flying - the constraints of patriarchy.They discuss legends, myths, rituals, sacred narratives, and artistic productions all while shining a light on how airborne women have been both influenced and understood by society and religious traditions and much more.Topics Include:- The archetype of flying women- The depiction of ariel women in captivity starting in the dark ages- Witches, shamans, mystics, goddesses- Exceptionism and why it holds women back- Wonder Woman, duality and the conundrum of love- Amelia Earhart, more than a mystery- Female power and sexuality- And other topics...Serinity Young Ph.D. is a Research Associate at the Department of Anthropology at the American Museum of Natural History. She is a professor of Classical Middle Eastern and Asian Language and Cultures at Queens College in New York. Young is the author of several books including Women Who Fly: Goddesses, Witches, Mystics, and other Airborne Females where she examines the motif of the flying woman as it appears in a wide variety of cultures and historical periods, in legends, myths, rituals, sacred narratives, and artistic productions. Resources Mentioned:Women Who Fly: Goddesses, Witches, Mystics, and other Airborne Females, by Serinity Young Ph.D.The Secret History of Wonder Woman, by Jill LeporeStay Connected:Drop Us A Message on PodInbox: https://podinbox.com/whenwomenflyEmail: hello@whenwomenfly.comWebsite: https://www.whenwomenfly.com/Socials: @whenwomenflySignup for AIR BORN, our monthly newsletter! A letter from Sylvia will show up in your inbox, with links to her latest conversations and insights.

Shannon Huffman Polson is continuously challenging herself to move out of her comfort zone, whether it’s by flying attack helicopters, climbing the tallest mountain in North America, or speaking in front of hundreds of people. This time, it’s by moving with her family from Washington state to a village nobody’s ever heard of in the mountains of France. And no, she does not speak French… yet, anyway.As one of the first women to fly Apache helicopters in the male-dominated U.S. Army, Shannon is a person who continuously chooses courage over comfort. Some of her accomplishments include leading two flight platoons, climbing Mount Denali, writing five award-winning books, and founding The Grit Institute.In this episode, we dive into Shannon’s story of adventure and risk, including the challenges she faces and the successes that come along with them. She shares the struggles of moving abroad with young children, the tensions of integrating into a new culture, and how we can find a sense of belonging in an unfamiliar place.Sylvia and Shannon dig into what they wish they knew before moving abroad, why they did it, and what they’ve learned from their journeys so far. They also discuss the immense benefits of leaving your comfort zone, living on your own terms, and pursuing a fulfilling life.Topics Include:- How to find your sense of belonging- Overcoming loneliness to find confidence and inspiration- The difficulties of moving abroad with children- How shared challenges can bring us together- The ups and downs of learning a new language- Recognizing loss- The importance of stories for identity- And other topics…Shannon Huffman Polson is a helicopter pilot, author, scuba diver, mountain climber, keynote speaker, consultant, wife, mother, and much more. Known for being one of the first women to fly the Apache attack helicopter in the Army, she has made a way where there were none time and time again. Her most recent book, The Grit Factor, describes what a woman needs to succeed in a male-dominated world.After a decade in the armed forces, Shannon graduated from Dartmouth with her MBA. She has since worked as a keynote speaker, lecturer, and consultant for companies like Microsoft and the Guidant Corporation. Her latest adventure includes moving with her husband and two children from Washington state to the mountains of France on her quest to live the richest life possible.Resources Mentioned:The Grit Factor: Courage, Resilience, and Leadership in the Most Male-Dominated Organization in the World, by Shannon Huffman Polson: https://www.amazon.com/Grit-Factor-Resilience-Male-Dominated-Organization/dp/1633697266The Grit Institute: https://shannonpolson.com/about/the-grit-institute/^^Code for 15% off Shannon's Going for Grit Course: whenwomenfly  Connect With Shannon:https://linktr.ee/shannonhpolsonFamily Blog: https://painauchocolate.substack.com/Newsletter: https://facingthewind.substack.com/LinkedIn and Instagram @ shannonhpolsonStay Connected:Drop Us A Message on PodInbox: https://podinbox.com/whenwomenflyEmail: hello@whenwomenfly.comWebsite: https://www.whenwomenfly.com/Socials: @whenwomenflySignup for AIR BORN, our monthly newsletter! A letter from Sylvia will show up in your inbox, with links to her latest conversation

In this episode, Sylvia talks with pilot, visionary, and strategist Ivy McIver, the Director of the SR Product Line at Cirrus Aircraft.Ivy talks about parachutes in airplanes, where planes can go and how they can change your life, why training is so critical, the importance of collaboration in the design process, and bringing outrageous innovations to market. They also dig into the psychology of endurance multi-sports and how lessons learned from extreme physical challenges can be applied in other areas of life.Topics Include:- Laser focus in pursuit of a dream as a child and Top Gun- Adapting to circumstances and the tyranny of minimum height requirements- General aviation and the adventure that profits- Moving job titles from computer programmer, to salesperson, to innovator and influencer- Working in a male-dominated industry- Extreme endurance sports such as completing 10-day races- Lessons learned from team adventure races- Overcoming the fear of failure- Risk tolerance in relationships- And other topics...Resources Mentioned:http://www.cirrusaircraft.com/Stay Connected:Drop Us A Message on PodInbox: https://podinbox.com/whenwomenflyEmail: hello@whenwomenfly.comWebsite: https://www.whenwomenfly.com/Socials: @whenwomenflySignup for AIR BORN, our monthly newsletter! A letter from Sylvia will show up in your inbox, with links to her latest conversations and insights.

After discovering her passion at an early age, Jan was determined to put her heart, mind, and soul into riding. She knew that riding was her calling and had no doubts that she would become one of the best in the sport. Everything came into question, however, after a riding accident and subsequent stroke that left Jan unable to speak. Jan was quick to reject the doctors who told her she would never ride again, and she hasn't stopped persevering since. In this conversation, Sylvia and Jan discuss what it takes to continue to pursue your dreams, even after setbacks. They discuss how to be strong-minded, using different perspectives to discover our blind spots, the importance of having people in our corner, and much more.Topics Include: - Jan’s early riding career- Our relationship to fear- How self-awareness leads to better choices- Jan’s road to recovery - Diversity of cognitive learning- Shared decision-making- How to persevere in the face of adversity- Mentorship- Why you shouldn’t be afraid to make mistakes- And more…Jan Byyny is a top-ranked international rider. Her career highlights include representing the U.S. at the Pan American Championships, where she won team gold and individual bronze. Jan also has numerous top ten placings at Rolex Kentucky, Foxhall, Jersey Fresh, Bromont and Morven Park CCIs, and won the 2013 USEF National 3-star Championship at Fair Hill. In addition, she has competed at Burghley, Badminton and Blenheim in England and Pau in France. Jan owns and manages Surefire Farm, a lesson, sales, and training business in Purcellville, Virginia. Her focus is selecting, training, and competing event horses. Jan is also active in the United States Eventing Association as an advisor to the Young Riders and Juniors Committee, is a Level IV ICP instructor, serves on the United States Equestrian Federation’s Eventing Sport Committee as an Elected Athlete and in 2017 was named a USEF Eventing Selector.Connect with Jan:Twitter: https://twitter.com/janbyynyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/janbyyny/Website: http://www.surefireeventing.com/Want to connect? Visit us online and signup for the monthly WWF newsletter!Website – https://www.whenwomenfly.com/Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Pinterest – @whenwomenflyEmail – hello@whenwomenfly.com

What happens when you have two very big but different dreams vying for your focus? Do you choose one? Or do you risk pursuing both and stretching yourself thin?Meet Kimmy Fasani — Snowboarder. Voice for female athletes. Mother. Mountain Baker. Author. Director of Storytelling @andmother_org. And so much more.Kimmy Fasani has been a pioneer in women’s snowboarding since she became the first female snowboarder to land a double backflip in the park and the powder in 2011. In this episode, Sylvia and Kimmy discuss balancing family life with a busy career. Kimmy shares how she discovered the truth about happiness after having her first child, living life without limits, and how women can show up as their authentic selves in all areas of life.This is a conversation about the ongoing journey of finding our way through incredible highs and the inevitable lows in our career and personal lives. Kimmy is a trailblazer and voice for women walking that tightrope between career and family. We get a candid unfiltered version of what the journey is like connecting with both the desire to have a family and the desire to get deep into adventures. This conversation allows us to not only look at progression and motherhood in a new way but also offers powerful insights into mindset and fear.Topics Include:- Balancing motherhood and a career- Pressure and managing it as a professional athlete- Finding connection in the physical world- Experiencing loss and processing it- Asking for help as a woman- Owning your authenticity and being transparent- Mentoring the younger generation of pro athletes- Mindfulness and the importance of presence in the context of fear- And other topics...Kimmy Fasani is a legend in the world of snowboarding,  and an incredible athlete both on and off the slopes.  In 2016, Kimmy earned the women’s Rider of the Year and Video Part of the Year honors. Her cookbook, The Mountain Baker, launched in 2020. She is a vocal ambassador for Boarding For Breast Cancer, Protect Our Winters, LIV Bicycles, and Luluemon. Kimmy and her husband, Chris Benchetler- a professional skier married in 2011, are also Co-Owners in Dessert’D Organic Bake Shop, an organic/all-natural bakery with a storefront in Mammoth Lakes, CA. They are also co-owners of Juneshine Hard Kombucha and Marea Coffee.Resources Mentioned:Website: http://kimmyfasani.com/Instagram: @KimmyFasani&Mother: https://andmother.org/Cookbook: The Mountain Baker – https://www.amazon.com/dp/B085RDDM9Y/Dessert’D Organic Bake Shop – https://www.dessertd.com/Juneshine Hard Kombucha – https://juneshine.com/Marea Coffee – https://mareacoffee.com/The Five Love Languages – https://www.5lovelanguages.com/Beautiful Flaws: Kimmy Fasani’s Breast Cancer Journey | Burton: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nOGbdq-af08Stay Connected:Drop Us A Message on PodInbox: https://podinbox.com/whenwomenflyEmail: hello@whenwomenfly.comWebsite: https://www.whenwomenfly.com/Socials: @whenwomenflySignup for AIR BORN, our monthly newsletter! A letter from Sylvia will show up in your inbox, with links to her latest conversations and insights.

In this solo episode, Sylvia shares what prompted her to move her family and three kids across the ocean to Switzerland. She digs into the challenges they've faced, her house rules for change, and three strategies she's developed for a happier, healthier, and more grounded approach to change.Sylvia also responds to listener questions about her past, her current career ambitions, flying in Europe, and much more.Topics Include:- How COVID helped Sylvia reset and prioritize- Moving across the ocean to Switzerland- Sylvia's 3 house rules for change- How travel clarifies the essentials in life- Morning self-care- The magical power of decluttering- Professional pivots and creative work- A reading list for change- And other topics...Resources Mentioned:The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up, by Marie Kondo: https://www.amazon.com/Life-Changing-Magic-Tidying-Decluttering-Organizing/dp/1607747308How to Change, by Katy Milkman: https://www.amazon.com/How-Change-Science-Getting-Where-ebook/dp/B08KPFPSNS/Atomic Habits, by James Clear: https://www.amazon.com/Atomic-Habits-Proven-Build-Break-ebook/dp/B07D23CFGRThink Again, by Adam Grant: https://www.amazon.com/Think-Again-Power-Knowing-What-ebook/dp/B08H177WQPThe Next Great Migration, by Sonia Shah: https://www.amazon.com/Next-Great-Migration-Beauty-Terror-ebook/dp/B081NHNJ6TStay Connected:Drop Us A Message on PodInbox: https://podinbox.com/whenwomenflyEmail: hello@whenwomenfly.comWebsite: https://www.whenwomenfly.com/Socials: @whenwomenflySignup for AIR BORN, our monthly newsletter! A letter from Sylvia will show up in your inbox, with links to her latest conversations and insights.

Shaesta Waiz is an American pilot, the first female certified civilian pilot born in Afghanistan and the youngest woman to fly solo around the world in a single-engine aircraft (new records being set every year). This is a fascinating and unfolding story about rising from adversity and discovering what is possible. Flying is closely linked to freedom and opportunity. If you could circumnavigate the globe in an aircraft with one message, what would it be?Shaesta has a  burning desire to help others like her – underserved as a youth - to work hard, never give up and follow their dreams.  As an Earthrounder (a unique and rare breed of pilot, setting themselves apart from the more conventional modes of air travel, possessing one unifying achievement: piloting a light aircraft around the entire world), Shaesta's story is layered with grit and determination alongside a deep desire to serve.This is a conversation about overcoming obstacles, creating opportunities, embracing a dual identity, pursuing a big dream, and resetting in a new chapter of life.Hear about Shaesta’s journey, her grace and commitment to serve, and how she uses her platform to inspire and encourage young women around the world to seek education in STEM and pursue their passions. Shaesta started Dreams Soar to share her story with girls and young women around the world, to let them know it is possible to achieve their dreams, regardless of the challenges and traditions they may face.Topics Include: Growing up as an Afghan refugee in the USGender roles and what she saw possible as a young girlWhat sparked a love of flyingWhy and how she planned her trip around the worldHighs, lows, endurance and liceChallenges and doubts, trusting intuitionMental health and aviation Working towards a goalImportance of STEM education and access for women  And other topics...Shaesta Waiz was born in Afghanistan at a refugee camp during the Soviet-Afghan War in 1987. Her family came to the United States and grew up in California. Although it wasn't until graduating high school that Sheasta dreamed of an aviation career, she accomplished a great deal in short order.  She is a graduate of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and the first certified civilian female pilot from Afghanistan. She earned a record for being youngest woman to fly solo around the world in a single-engine aircraft.  Shaesta is the founder of Dreams Soar, a woman’s ambassador program where young women interested in an education in aviation and engineering are mentored and supported.Resources Mentioned:Chicago Tribune Article:  https://www.chicagotribune.com/news/ct-xpm-1987-07-05-8702190664-story.htmlDreams Soar: http://dreamssoar.org/Shaesta’s Podcast, “Aviate”: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aviate-with-shaesta/id1577977608Stay Connected:Drop Us A Message on PodInbox: https://podinbox.com/whenwomenflyEmail: hello@whenwomenfly.comWebsite: https://www.whenwomenfly.com/Socials: @whenwomenflySignup for AIR BORN, our monthly newsletter! A letter from Sylvia will show up in your inbox, with links to her latest conversations and insights.

Mandy’s hope of becoming a fast jet pilot in the Royal Air Force was once an impossible dream. When Mandy first became interested in flying, women were not permitted to fly in the military. But the tides turned for Mandy when the rules were finally changed to allow women to fly on the front lines. Her dream was now within reach, but the challenges had only just begun.Mandy’s story is one that is already having an impact on future generations. In this episode, you will hear Sylvia and Mandy talk about the early influences that led to her career in aviation, building mental resilience, deciphering between when to be a leader and when to be a team player, training versus being in combat, transitioning to motherhood, and so much more.Topics Include: - Handling loss and setbacks- Framing cognitive diversity as a strength- Incremental learning- Overcoming imposter syndrome- Followership skills- How compartmentalizing can benefit high-achievers- Building a sense of camaraderie - Mandy’s experience with training for the Royal Air Force- Finding purpose through giving back- And other topics...Mandy Hickson is a former Royal Air Force pilot. She was the only female pilot on her Front Line Tornado Squadron, flying multi-million dollar fast jets. Mandy has also operated in hostile environments, including patrolling the ‘No Fly’ zone over Iraq. Mandy has been the keynote speaker at hundreds of events and is an inspiration to women in the UK and beyond. As a trained Human Factors facilitator with the Civil Aviation Authority, Mandy uses her in-depth knowledge of aviation, calculated risk-taking, and decision-making under pressure to deliver tactical lessons from the cockpit to the boardroom. Books Mentioned:An Officer, Not A Gentleman, by Mandy HicksonThe Grit Factor, by Shannon Huffman PolsonBlack Box Thinking, by Matthew SyedConnect with Mandy:Mandy’s WebsiteInstagram: @mandyhicksonspeakerTwitter: @MandyHicksonFacebookYoutubeStay Connected:Drop us a message on PodInbox: https://podinbox.com/whenwomenflyEmail: hello@whenwomenfly.comWebsite: https://www.whenwomenfly.com/Socials: @whenwomenflySignup for AIR BORN, our monthly newsletter! A letter from Sylvia will show up in your inbox, with links to her latest conversations and insights.

When Nikki Stone injured her back in 1996, the pain was so excruciating that she couldn't stand for more than 15 minutes at a time. Bedridden by her spine injury, Nikki was advised by 10 different doctors to give up on her dreams of Olympic gold as it was unlikely she would ever ski again.Two years later at the 1998 Winter Olympics in Nagano, Japan, Nikki would go on to become the first American to win a gold medal as an inverted aerial skier, solidifying her future as a US National Ski Hall of Famer. Nikki's story is one of determination, grit, and a never give up attitude. Today, she encourages others to realize their passions, triumph over obstacles, and take risks to reach extraordinary goals. In this episode, Sylvia and Nikki discuss the turtle metaphor for doing hard things, what she called the Turtle Effect. They discuss what it was like to take big risks during the Olympic games, the importance of dreaming big when setting goals, why accomplishment does translate to happiness, and much more.Topics Include:- Early dreams of winning an Olympic gold medal- Working with fear as an athlete- Grandma's quote, "The brave do not live forever, but the cautious do not live at all." - Trying new things to stoke old passions- Connecting to childhood dreams- Using questions to steer your life- Becoming a mother- The truth about happiness- And other topics...Nicole 'Nikki' Stone is a former American Olympic skier. She competed in the 1998 Winter Olympics in Nagano, Japan, and is best known for being the first American to win a gold medal as an inverted aerial skier. In her career, Nikki has won 35 World Cup medals, 11 World Cup titles, 4 national titles, 2 year-long Aerial World Cup titles, and a World Championship title. She also became the first pure aerialist ever, male or female, to become the year-long Overall Freestyle World Cup Champion. Nikki was inducted into the National Ski Hall of Fame in 2003. Nikki now travels the world as an inspirational speaker sharing her secrets to success. Nikki was honored with the title of International Professional Speaker of the Year by the American Speakers Bureau Corporation. She encourages and inspires her audiences to find their "Turtle Effect" by realizing their passions, triumphing over obstacles, and taking risks to reach extraordinary goals that may initially seem unattainable.Resources Mentioned:https://www.nikkistone.com/When Turtles Fly by Nikki Stone: https://www.amazon.com/When-Turtles-Fly-Secrets-Successful/dp/1600376754 Stay Connected:Drop Us A Message on PodInbox: https://podinbox.com/whenwomenflyEmail: hello@whenwomenfly.comWebsite: https://www.whenwomenfly.com/Socials: @whenwomenflySignup for AIR BORN, our monthly newsletter! A letter from Sylvia will show up in your inbox, with links to her latest conversations and insights.

Join Sylvia in her first ask me anything episode of Season 3 as she responds to audience questions about her life, flying, and the metaphor of flight.In this episode, Sylvia shares what it was like growing up in the Midwest. She shares how the seed was planted early in her life to eventually live in a French-speaking country, what it was like traveling abroad with her husband and three kids, how becoming a mother changed her approach to flying, and more. Topics Include:- The early life of Sylvia Winter- Walking through the world with flight as a metaphor- Trusting your gut- Sylvia's history as a runner- Confronting fears- Risk tolerance as a mother - The experience of flow, and its relation to flight- And other topics...Resources Mentioned:Drop Us A Message on PodInbox: https://podinbox.com/whenwomenflyhttp://elizakerr.comDon't Trust Your Gut: https://www.amazon.com/Dont-Trust-Your-Gut-Really/dp/0062880918Stay Connected:Drop Us A Message on PodInbox: https://podinbox.com/whenwomenflyEmail: hello@whenwomenfly.comWebsite: https://www.whenwomenfly.com/Socials: @whenwomenflySignup for AIR BORN, our monthly newsletter! A letter from Sylvia will show up in your inbox, with links to her latest conversations and insights.

Today's guest is Eliza Kerr from Yosemite, California. Eliza has been leading people on adventures in the outdoors for more than 30 years in Tibet, Nepal, Alaska, Colorado, and Yosemite. She is a leading light, climber, surfer, yogi, guide, mom, and just an awesome soul. Her story is about a connection with the outdoors in both body and mind.Eliza is also the co-founder of Balanced Rock whose mission is to inspire health and wellbeing through deepening connection to nature and spirit through workshops, trips, and community programs. She is a certified Ayurvedic specialist and practices Ayurvedic medicine in Yosemite.In this episode, Sylvia and Eliza discuss Eliza's transition from the midwest to Yosemite, how her studies in Nepal influenced her life journey, risk versus reward in adventure sports, recovering from severe injuries, building a tribe of strong women, and much more. Topics Include: - Facing fear as a climber - Connecting with our authentic selves- Processing the death of loved ones- The birth of Balanced Rock- Moonstone Retreat Center- Living a life of kindness and gratitude- Detaching from the digital world- And other topics...Eliza Kerr has been living in Yosemite since graduating Phi Beta Kappa from UC Berkeley in Conservation and Resource Studies in 1993. She has been leading people on adventures in the outdoors since 1989, working for NatureBridge (formerly Yosemite Institute), Outward Bound in Colorado and Alaska, Where There Be Dragons in Tibet, and Wild Women Workshops in Alaska and Yosemite. Eliza co-founded Balanced Rock in 2007 and since then has served as an instructor. She has served as both President and Vice President of the Board of Directors.Eliza first discovered yoga in 1991 while living and studying in Nepal and India. Since then, she has been a passionate practitioner, studying a variety of styles including Iyengar, Bikkurim, and Ashtanga with Pattabhi Jois and her primary teacher, Richard Freeman. Eliza has been teaching a blend of these styles in Yosemite since 1995 with an emphasis on breath, flow, and joy. She was certified as a Clinical Ayurvedic Specialist from the California College of Ayurveda in 2000 and also holds Ayurvedic certificates from the American Institute of Vedic Studies, Rishikesh College of Ayurveda, the Kripalu School of Ayurveda, and the Ayurvedic Institute. She is currently practicing Ayurvedic medicine in Yosemite.Resources Mentioned:http://balancedrock.orghttp://elizakerr.comStay Connected:Signup for AIR BORN, our monthly newsletter! A letter from Sylvia will show up in your inbox, with links to her latest conversations and insights.Email: hello@whenwomenfly.comWebsite: https://www.whenwomenfly.com/Socials: @whenwomenfly

Sonya Looney is a professional mountain biker and racing cyclist who has competed in over 20 countries and has over 25 career wins including a World Championship, UCI Wins, and USA National Championships.With such an impressive resumé, you may be surprised to hear Sonya say that achievements don't lead to happiness, and that the validation she sought as a professional athlete pales in comparison to the community she's found and the relationships she's formed – particularly as a mother.Sonya is still out competing and winning races, but her mission has shifted from achievement to helping people be better every day – no matter the medium.  In this episode, Sylvia and Sonya discuss her journey to becoming a professional mountain biker, wellness in the context of high-intensity pursuits, seeking validation from the right sources, having the courage to pursue your dreams, and so much more.Topics Include: - Balancing motherhood and professional goals- Focusing on identity rather than outcomes- Calculating risk as a young mom- Personal growth and behavior change- Working with negative thoughts- Breaking undesirable habit loops- Prioritizing consistency over perfection - And other topics…Sonya Looney is a professional mountain biker and racing cyclist who has raced in over 20 countries and has over 25 career wins and course records in 11 countries including World Championship, UCI Wins and USA National Championships. As one of the largest social influencers in mountain biking in America, Looney is a brand ambassador for 10 brands. Sonya is also a health and performance coach and travels as a keynote motivational speaker where she talks about success and failure, overcoming fear, and the power of choice. Sonya is also the founder of a lifestyle brand, Moxy & Grit, and hosts the podcast The Sonya Looney Show.Resources Mentioned:The Sonya Looney Show podcast: https://www.sonyalooney.com/podcasts/TEDx Talk: By Bike - Defining Success at 17,769 Feet: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WYiflJvxTac&t=1sThe Four Tendencies by Gretchen Rubin: https://gretchenrubin.com/books/the-four-tendencies/intro/The Craving Mind by Dr. Judson Brewer: https://www.amazon.com/Craving-Mind-Cigarettes-Smartphones-Hooked/dp/0300223242  Unwinding Anxiety by Dr. Judson Brewer: https://www.amazon.com/Unwinding-Anxiety-Science-Shows-Cycles/dp/0593330447/Connect with Sonya:Sonya’s Website: https://www.sonyalooney.com/Sign up for Sonya’s Newsletter: https://www.sonyalooney.com/#subscribeInstagram: @sonyalooneyStay Connected:Signup for AIR BORN, our monthly newsletter! A letter from Sylvia will show up in your inbox, with links to her latest conversations and insights.Email: hello@whenwomenfly.comWebsite: https://www.whenwomenfly.com/Socials: @whenwomenfly

Today's episode features Shannon Switzer Swanson, a National Geographic Explorer, marine social ecologist, and surfer who explores the intersection of storytelling, research, art, and science.As part of Season III, we are revisiting some of our favorite episodes that grapple with big life themes, break down the components of change, and dive into strategies that are relevant and applicable to you today.In this episode, Sylvia and Shannon discuss modern-day "exploration" and the role of women and the BIPOC community in redefining it. Shannon is not discouraged or dissuaded by the complexities in her conservation work. She continues to ask difficult questions such as: “Can coastal communities manage their resources in ways that both sustain prosperous livelihoods and a healthy environment.”  What is the win-win formula?Fun fact: Shannon is the granddaughter of one of the pioneering women pilots of the mid-1900s.Topics Include:- Photography, storytelling, and research- How our perception of time affects choices around sustainability- What it means to be a modern-day explorer- Female role models- Extensive field research in Central Sulawesi- Building trust and participatory research methods- National Geographic programs and getting your start- Maintaining relationships while traveling- Balancing work and family life- Advice for women adventurers- And other topics...Resources Mentioned:Femininities in the Field: Tourism and Transdisciplinary Research: https://www.amazon.com/Femininities-Field-Tourism-Transdisciplinary-Research/dp/1845416503An interactive website for folks interested in knowing where aquarium fish come from and how to keep an aquarium that doesn’t harm the world’s reefs, check it out at https://reeftoaquarium.com/Connect with Shannon:Instagram: @ShannonSwitzerSwansonTwitter: @S3OceansFacebook: @S3OceansLinkedIn: @shannonswitzerswansonInterview with ShannonWant to connect with us? Visit us online!Website: https://www.whenwomenfly.com/IG: @whenwomenflyFB: @whenwomenflyTwitter: @whenwomenflyPinterest: @whenwomenflyStay Connected:Signup for AIR BORN, our monthly newsletter! A letter from Sylvia will show up in your inbox, with links to her latest conversations and insights.Email: hello@whenwomenfly.comWebsite: https://www.whenwomenfly.com/Socials: @whenwomenfly

Amelia Rose’s parents wanted her to have an aspirational name — one that she could live up to. So, with her dad’s surname, she was given the name Amelia Rose Earhart. Growing up, her name often prompted questions. Is she related to the Amelia Earhart? Will she become a pilot? Finally, after a genealogy test and a newfound inspiration for flight, Amelia Rose thought she was able to answer YES to both of these questions. Years later, however, the news broke. In a “gotcha” moment of journalism, Amelia’s coworker at a news station uncovered that she had no relation to the American Hero, Amelia Earhart. The news couldn’t have come at a worse time. Amelia Rose was preparing for an around-the-world flight and was now being called a fraud, a liar, and a fake. The embarrassment of it all had her questioning if she should proceed or quit on the dream she had worked so hard for. In this conversation between two female pilots, Sylvia and Amelia discuss what it means to embody a role model, setting boundaries, Amelia’s around-the-world flight, how to overcome challenges in personal and professional settings, and so much more.Topics Include: - Amelia’s experience with news and anchoring - Women in aviation- How to develop a skill stack- Focusing on what you can control- Giving back in aviation - The Fly with Amelia Foundation- Struggling with fear and doubt- The power of partnership in pursuit of your goals- Imposter Syndrome- Overcoming the fear of rejection- And other topics…Amelia Rose Earhart is the youngest woman to fly around the world in a single-engine aircraft. In 2014, Amelia flew a Pilatus PC12-NG 28,000 miles, crossing the equator six times, through fourteen countries to complete a circumnavigation of the globe. Amelia has been a passionate aviatrix since her first flight lesson at the age of twenty-one, a seeker of all things adventurous and is an accomplished public speaker, spending the last 8 years working as a television news anchor, covering breaking news, traffic and weather in Denver and Los Angeles. Amelia was given the Amelia Earhart Pioneering Achievement Award in 2013 and in 2014 was named by the Jaycees as one of the “Top Ten Young Americans”. Resources Mentioned:- Amelia’s Website: http://www.ameliaroseearhart.com/- Amelia’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ameliaroseearhart- The Untethered Soul by Michael Singer: https://www.amazon.com//dp/1572245379Stay Connected:Signup for AIR BORN, our monthly newsletter! A letter from Sylvia will show up in your inbox, with links to her latest conversations and insights.Email: hello@whenwomenfly.comWebsite: https://www.whenwomenfly.com/Socials: @whenwomenfly

Today's episode features dance ethnologist, flying trapeze artist, and executive coach Dr. Edy Greenblatt.As part of Season III, we are revisiting some of our favorite episodes that grapple with big life themes, break down the components of change, and dive into strategies that are relevant and applicable to you today.Sylvia and Edy discuss what people get wrong about work-life balance and burnout. Edy shares with listeners what flying trapeze and dance can teach us about business and relationships, what we can do to avoid burnout, why we need to work with our fear rather than against it, and much more. Topics Include:- Defining resilience- Work as enrichment to life vs. work as depleting- The myth of work-life balance- Why we need to reframe fear- How the flying trapeze changes everything- Identifying the activities that deplete and restore us- Investing in meaningful relationships- And other topics...Dr. Edy Greenblatt, Ph.D., PCC is a transformational coach-educator, resilience pioneer, integration visionary, and entrepreneur.  As Founder and President of Execu-Care Coaching & Consulting, Inc. she creates radically innovative interdisciplinary, multi-method interventions that help leaders, teams, and organizations learn, grow, laugh, and energize while they rise to meet demanding performance goals.  Her blended solutions can include interactive classroom sessions, aerial arts and flying trapeze, embodied and peer coaching, world dance, WATSU, coach supervision, ethnographic analyses, interactive online support, and offsite resilience retreats.Resources Mentioned:Flying Trapeze Video – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jLaUz9dh0HUBook – Restore Yourself by Edy GreenblattBook – The Female Advantage: Women's Ways of Leadership by Sally HelgelsonBook – Women Don't Ask by Linda Babcock and Sara LascheverMulti-Media Series – Fusion: How World-Class Innovators Create the Unexpected by CJ MeadowsConnect with Edy:LinkedIn – @dredygreenblattEmail – edygreenblatt@gmal.comWebsite – https://edygreenblatt.com/Stay Connected:Signup for AIR BORN, our monthly newsletter! A letter from Sylvia will show up in your inbox, with links to her latest conversations and insights.Email: hello@whenwomenfly.comWebsite: https://www.whenwomenfly.com/Socials: @whenwomenfly

What makes one an icon, an idol, an exemplar? What defines our heroes? What does honor and greatness teach us—and why does it matter?Amy Spowart is the president and CEO of the National Aviation Hall of Fame (NAHF), where she has worked for over 20 years. Amy grew up in a rural town in Pennsylvania with dreams of traveling the world. At age 21, she took her first flight, but it was years later when she started working as the Special Projects Officer and Historian for the NAHF that she fell in love with aviation. Amy believes that learning about historical figures encourages the leaders of tomorrow to pursue their passions today. Through the NAHF, Amy shares stories of astronauts and aviators to inspire children and adults alike.   While leading the NAHF, Amy has raised capital, created new programs, grown awareness, and more. Recently the NAHF partnered with PBS for “Discovering Flight,” a curriculum that teaches elementary-age students about aviation and aerospace through STEAM concepts. Amy is passionate about celebrating aerospace and aviation heritage and helping the next generation learn about opportunities in aerospace and aviation.  In this episode, Sylvia and Amy talk about Amy’s path to becoming the President and CEO of NAHF, the NAHF’s collaboration with PBS and the curriculum rollout, and the 2022 NAHF’s inductees. Topics Include:- Stories about pioneers of flight like Bessie Coleman, Eileen Collins, Joe Engles, Jacqueline Cochran, and more.  - Amy’s role as CEO of NAHF- Why we all need heroes, children especially - Why history matters for today- How to develop future careers in aviation and aerospace- How to support women in aviation- The future of aviation- Challenges overcoming work/life balance - How sacrifice is necessary for the pursuit of greatness- Accomplishments of 2022 inductees Willa Brown, Margaret Hamilton, Geraldine Mark- And other topics…Amy Spowart is the President and CEO of the National Aviation Hall of Fame (NAHF), where she currently directs the production of Discovering Flight: Learning with the National Aviation Hall of Fame in collaboration with PBS. Amy is a member of the Women in Aviation Advisory Board (WIAAB), she is a 2019 Collier Selection Committee member, and is on the board of directors for the Academic Decathlon of Ohio.  Amy graduated Summa Cum Laude from Wright State University with a double major in History and Classical and Ancient Studies.  Resources Mentioned: National Aviation Hall of Fame: https://www.nationalaviation.org/ NAHF 2022 Inductees: https://www.nationalaviation.org/the-national-aviation-hall-of-fame-reveals-theclass-of-2022/ How to Nominate for NAHF: https://www.nationalaviation.org/nominations/ Women in Aviation International: https://www.wai.org/ Final Flight, Final Fight by Erin Miller: https://www.amazon.com/Final-Flight-Fight-Grandmother-Arlington/dp/1733560602 National Aviation Hall of Fame:https://www.facebook.com/National.Aviation.Hall.of.Famehttps://twitter.com/NAHFhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/national-aviation-hall-of-famehttps://www.instagram.com/nationalaviation/