AVIATE with Shaesta 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.

This week's podcast is with the legendary Col. Merryl Tengesdal (Retired), who authored her inspirational book "Shatter the Sky: What Going to the Stratosphere Taught Me about Self-worth, Sacrifice, and Discipline." Tengesdal is known for being the first and only African American woman to fly the U-2 spy plane, a notable achievement in the military aviation sector. She is portrayed as a fearless individual, open to challenges and with a background of growing up in the Bronx with a fascination for space exploration. Her aspirations led her to the military and toward her goal of becoming an astronaut.

Our conversation covers the challenges and achievements of Merryl's career, particularly with the U-2 "Dragon Lady," and delves into the rigorous physical and mental conditioning required for high-altitude flights. Merryl discusses overcoming societal expectations and imposter syndrome, stressing the importance of self-belief and perseverance. She also shares her passions, including "Star Trek" and the "Golden Girls," and the influence of her childhood mentors. Her story is highlighted as an inspiration for resilience and determination, making it an ideal start for the new year.

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.

Join us in the fascinating episode on the 'AVIATE with Shaesta' podcast, where we meet Julia Harrington, an aviation pioneer and devoted mother. Serving as the Lead Captain and Base Manager at Axis Jet in Chicago, Julia embodies the potential for women's success in aviation while balancing motherhood. She recounts her early fascination with Business Aviation at the renowned EAA AirVenture, her educational path at the University of Illinois, where she earned her wings, and her career as a professional pilot. Her story highlights the evolving role of women in the aviation sector who aspire to grow their families.

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.