In this inspiring episode of Skyward, host Pilot Mercedes sits down with aviation legend Lola Reid Allin — one of Canada's earliest female commercial pilots, flight instructor, Twin Otter captain, award-winning author, photographer, and adventurer who's explored over 65 countries. Lola shares her remarkable journey starting in 1979, when women in the cockpit were rare and often unwelcome. From battling family discouragement and societal expectations, to becoming the first female chief flight instructor at multiple schools, flying bush ops in the North, and facing intense challenges like electrical failures, spins, and outright discrimination — her story is one of resilience, joy, and quiet revolution. We dive into: Growing up fascinated by clouds and planes in a time when girls were steered toward "traditional" rolesTrailblazing milestones as a woman in a male-dominated industryHair-raising in-flight emergencies and how she kept calm under pressureHer new memoir Highway to the Sky: An Aviator's Journey and why she wrote it after a shocking 2014 note to a female captainWhether you're a pilot, aspiring aviator, or simply love stories of determination against the odds, this conversation celebrates the pioneers who opened the skies for future generations. Note for parents & younger readers: While Highway to the Sky is a powerful and worthwhile read, it does explore some mature themes including adult situations, violence, and depictions of abuse. Reader discretion is advised, especially for young audiences. 📖 Highway to the Sky (available on Amazon worldwide + audiobook!) 🌐 lolareidallin.com Remember to rate this podcast and follow for more behind-the-scenes aviation stories! ✈️ Chapters 00:00 Trailblazing in Aviation: Lola Reed Allen's Journey 02:59 Overcoming Barriers: The Challenges of Being a Female Pilot 05:51 Inspiration and Role Models: The Impact of Early Influences 09:12 Navigating a Male-Dominated Industry: Experiences and Insights 11:56 The Evolution of Female Representation in Aviation 14:59 Flight Instruction: Mentoring the Next Generation 18:03 Personal Growth Through Aviation: Lessons Learned 20:58 The Future of Women in Aviation: Progress and Challenges 56:04 The Power of Storytelling in Writing 01:00:06 Facing Challenges in Aviation 01:05:56 The Journey of Writing a Book 01:16:49 The Art of Audiobook Production 01:20:36 Exploring Aircraft Experience 01:29:04 Crisis Management in Aviation 01:43:44 Lessons Learned in Aviation and Life Whether you’re an aspiring pilot, a recreational flyer, considering aviation as a career or hobby, or simply inspired by the skies, these gems will motivate you heading into 2026. Thank you for an amazing launch year — here’s to flying higher in the next! Learn more: If you want to learn more about aviation or aerospace, reach out to Pilot Mercedes: IG: https://www.instagram.com/sound_skies/ Email: mercedes@skywardpodcast.com If you’re looking for a new place to host your podcast, I use Buzzsprout. You get a $20.00 bonus if you use my link: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=2447859 Skyward Patreon Community is up and running! If you’re looking for a group of other amazing aviation and aerospace enthusiasts like you, here’s your spot! https://patreon.com/Skywardpodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink 🎙️ Hosted by Pilot Mercedes With years of experience as a pilot, Pilot Mercedes brings you Skyward Podcast. Your go-to show for mastering flight training, building confidence, and exploring all the different layers of the aviation and a Tap this to send Mercedes a message!
