EP 92: Kim "KC" Campbell on Flying in the Face of Fear
Sep 14, 2023
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Retired Colonel Kim K.C. Campbell shares her experiences as a fighter pilot, discussing topics such as training to perform under pressure, the power of visualization, guiding others through challenges, embracing vulnerability, and facing fear with courage.
Preparation and training, including chair flying and visualization techniques, are crucial for performing under pressure.
Embrace fear and take action anyway, as true growth and achievement come from facing and overcoming fear.
Deep dives
The Importance of Performing Under Pressure
Performing under pressure is a crucial skill, particularly in high-stakes situations such as emergency departments or combat. It requires preparation, mental resilience, and the ability to adapt in unpredictable circumstances. Kim K.C. Campbell, a retired Air Force fighter pilot, shares her experiences and insights on performing under pressure. She emphasizes the importance of preparation and training, highlighting the value of chair flying and visualization techniques. Campbell also discusses the power of storytelling and how sharing personal experiences and lessons learned can positively impact and guide others, helping them navigate difficult situations and ultimately succeed.
The Role of Fear and Courage
Kim K.C. Campbell acknowledges that fear is a natural reaction when facing challenges or unknown situations. However, she encourages individuals to embrace their fear and take action anyway. Campbell emphasizes the importance of courage, which involves acknowledging fear but not allowing it to paralyze or hinder one's performance. She challenges listeners to confront their fears head-on, recognizing that it is through facing fear that true growth and achievement can occur.
The Value of Stories and Elderhood
Kim K.C. Campbell emphasizes the power of storytelling in sharing experiences and knowledge. As an elder in her field, Campbell recognizes the responsibility of passing down wisdom and insights to the next generation. She highlights the significance of creating safe spaces for conversation and the importance of guidance and support for individuals navigating challenging situations. Campbell advocates for cultivating a culture of psychological safety, in which learning, reflection, and open dialogue are encouraged.
Preparing for the Unknown
Kim K.C. Campbell reflects on the unpredictability of high-pressure environments, such as combat missions. She emphasizes that no amount of training can fully prepare individuals for every potential scenario. However, she underscores the importance of adaptability and flexibility when faced with the unexpected. Campbell stresses the need to cultivate an environment that encourages quick thinking, creativity, and innovation in the face of adversity.
Kim “KC” Campbell is a retired Colonel, serving in the Air Force for 24 years as a fighter pilot, a senior leader, and the Director of the Center for Character & Leadership Development at the Air Force Academy. She is the author of Flying in the Face of Fear: A Fighter Pilot’s Lessons on Leading with Courage. In this episode, we talk about training to perform under pressure, overcoming fear and chaos, and the power of storytelling in training the next generation of operators.
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