00:00 Intro

03:17 Introduction of Shelly Simi, a leader in aviation innovation and strategic initiatives.

10:55 Shelly’s early life in the Mississippi Delta and inspiration from crop dusters.

12:58 Transition from flight coordination at FedEx to strategic roles in aviation.

17:35 Shelly's leadership style and her contributions to industry-government collaboration.

21:17 The significance of mentorship and fostering the next generation of aviation professionals.

27:10 The importance of advancing aviation technology and safety standards.

29:59 Advocating for women in aviation and the founding of Women in Aviation International.

39:10 Reflections on career milestones and future aspirations.

45:17 Final thoughts and takeaways from Shelly’s remarkable journey.

Shelly Simi | LinkedIn

Shelly Simi | DigitaliBiz, LLC

Shelly Simi

Shaesta Waiz

Michael Wildes

00:00 Intro

03:17 Introduction of Caroline "Blaze" Jensen, trailblazer in military aviation and leadership.

10:55 Blaze's early life in Wisconsin and inspiration from her family's military background.

12:58 Transition from active duty to the civilian sector and corporate roles.

17:35 Climbing the ranks and breaking barriers in a male-dominated field.

21:17 Blaze's leadership style, focusing on mentorship and resilience.

27:10 The importance of honoring the legacy of Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP).

29:59 Balancing career ambitions with motherhood and creating "Thundermouse."

39:10 Advocating for self-compassion and goal visualization.

45:17 Final thoughts and takeaways from Blaze's remarkable journey.

Caroline "Blaze" Jensen | Website

Caroline "Blaze" Jensen | LinkedIn

Caroline "Blaze" Jensen | Instagram

Caroline "Blaze" Jensen

Shaesta Waiz

Michael Wildes

Meet Cat Clay Wren, a remarkable leader in the business aviation sector and the Chief Experience Officer at Business Jets in Dallas, Texas. Originating from a small town in southwest New Mexico, Cat's journey from a rural upbringing to a prominent role in aviation is a testament to her resilience and adaptability. Transitioning from college basketball to business aviation, she has swiftly climbed the corporate ladder, breaking barriers in a male-dominated field. Cat's leadership style is characterized by its non-traditional, effective approach, focusing on servant leadership and adaptability. Beyond her professional success, Cat is deeply committed to community service, especially supporting veterans and their families. As a trailblazer and advocate for women in aviation, Cat's story is one of determination, leadership, and positive impact.

Introduction:

• Introduction of Col. Merryl Tengesdal (Retired), author of "Shatter the Sky: What Going to the Stratosphere Taught Me about Self-worth, Sacrifice, and Discipline."
• Brief overview of her unique achievement as the first and only African American woman to fly the U-2 spy plane.

Background:

• Merryl's upbringing in the Bronx and her early fascination with space exploration.
• The journey from her childhood aspirations to joining the military with the goal of becoming an astronaut.

Main Discussion:

Career Challenges and Achievements:

• In-depth discussion on Merryl's experiences with the U-2 "Dragon Lady."
• The physical and mental demands of high-altitude flights.
• Overcoming barriers in a predominantly male-dominated field.

Overcoming Societal Expectations:

• Merryl's personal battles with societal expectations and imposter syndrome.
• The importance of self-belief and perseverance in her success.
• Strategies and mindsets for overcoming similar challenges.

Inspirational Insights:

• Merryl's perspective on what her achievements mean for diversity and representation in military aviation.
• How her story serves as an inspiration for resilience and determination.

Personal Passions and Influences:

• Discussion on her love for "Star Trek" and "Golden Girls."
• The impact of childhood mentors on her life and career.

Conclusion:

• Reflecting on Merryl Tengesdal's journey as a source of inspiration for the new year.
• Final thoughts and takeaways from the conversation.

Additional Notes:

• Purchase "Shatter the Sky."
• The Motivation Lab
• Information on upcoming events or talks featuring Col. Merryl Tengesdal.

In this episode of the 'AVIATE with Shaesta' podcast, we're joined by Emily Deaton, an influential leader in the aviation industry. Born and raised on Florida's Space Coast, Emily shares stories from her childhood, describing her childhood memories as a 'river rat' kid amidst rocket launches. She delves into her academic journey, highlighting her shift from an aspiring sports agent to a PR expert at the University of Florida.

Emily candidly discusses her diverse career trajectory, starting in the hospitality sector and transitioning to business aviation with Embraer Executive Jets. Her passion for embracing challenges shines through as she recounts her progression from sales to leadership roles, culminating in her current position as CEO of jetAVIAVA.

Throughout the conversation, Emily offers invaluable insights on women's leadership in aviation, balancing family and career, and maintaining enthusiasm in a dynamic industry. She emphasizes the importance of authenticity in leadership, encouraging listeners to bring their whole selves to work.

Join us for this motivating episode as Emily Deaton shares her journey, lessons learned, and the joys of working in the fascinating world of aviation.

About Julia Harrington:

• Lead Captain and Base Manager at Axis Jet in Chicago.
• Known for her pioneering role as a woman in the aviation industry.
• Balances her professional career with motherhood.

Early Interests and Influences:

• Julia shares her initial fascination with Business Aviation.
• Recounts her experiences at the EAA AirVenture, sparking her interest in aviation.
• Discusses family influences and early role models in her life.

Educational Journey:

• Details her educational path at the University of Illinois.
• Talks about earning her wings and the challenges she faced during her training.
• Reflects on the importance of education in her career.

Professional Career:

• Julia’s journey to becoming Lead Captain and Base Manager.
• Insights into her day-to-day responsibilities and experiences at Axis Jet.
• Discusses significant milestones and memorable moments in her career.

Women in Aviation:

• Julia's perspective on the evolving role of women in the aviation sector.
• Challenges faced by women in a traditionally male-dominated field.
• Advice for young women aspiring to enter the aviation industry.

Balancing Career and Motherhood:

• Julia shares her experience of balancing a demanding career with being a mother.
• Discusses the support systems that have helped her manage both roles.
• Offers advice to other women who aspire to grow their families while pursuing their careers.

Future Aspirations:

• Julia’s goals for the future in both her professional and personal life.
• Her vision for the future of women in aviation.

This week on the "AVIATE with Shaetsa" podcast, Jenny Showalter delved into her family's aviation legacy and career trajectory. She reminisced about growing up in Orlando, the origins of Showalter Flying Service, and the family's deep connection to the Orlando Executive Airport. Jenny shared fond childhood memories, discussed the emotional sale of the family business in 2015, and reflected on her subsequent roles, including her leadership in the Florida Aviation Business Association. Despite not becoming a pilot herself, Jenny's passion for aviation shines through her extensive community work and her current venture, Showalter Business Aviation Career Coaching, where she supports aviation professionals in their career development.

This week on the AVIATE with Shaesta podcast, I speak to Ezinne Uzo-Okoro, Assistant Director of Space Policy for the White House. With her incredible career in aerospace, I asked Ezinne specific questions around the AVIATE (Acknowledge, Vocalize, Inclusion, Act, and Evolve) theme.  

From humble beginnings in Nigeria, where she sought solutions to everyday problems, Ezinne Uzo-Okoro has charted an extraordinary path. Her journey, marked by curiosity and resilience, led her from aspirations of being an inventor to the forefront of space exploration and policy-making. With a career that began at NASA in 2004, Ezinne has accumulated extensive expertise in space engineering systems and management. Her academic accomplishments are equally impressive, with three master's degrees and a historic doctorate in aeronautics and astronautics from MIT, making her the first and only Black woman to achieve this feat.

In her current role as the assistant director of space policy in the White House's Office of Science and Technology Policy, Uzo-Okoro is instrumental in shaping the nation's space priorities. Her days are filled with tackling challenges ranging from space debris to Earth’s climate monitoring, reflecting a diverse and impactful portfolio.  

Uzo-Okoro's vision extends beyond practical solutions; she envisions a future where space technology plays a critical role in advancing society and the global economy. Her dedication and pioneering spirit have not only led to significant contributions in the field of space exploration but also positioned her as a role model, inspiring others to pursue their dreams relentlessly.