The Daily Stoic The Day My Ego Almost Killed Me | Fighter Pilot Michelle Curran (PT. 1)
36 snips
Sep 10, 2025 
Michelle Curran, a groundbreaking former U.S. Air Force fighter pilot and author of "The Flipside," shares her riveting journey from rural Wisconsin to the cockpit. She discusses battling imposter syndrome and overcoming the challenges of a male-dominated field. Curran highlights the critical balance between ego and vulnerability in high-stakes careers, revealing how fear can fuel true courage. With a humorous story about her memorable call sign, she emphasizes the importance of representation and mentorship for aspiring pilots, especially young women.
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Ego Is A Killer, Fear Is A Superpower
- Fighter pilot success often depends on humility, discipline, and managing fear, not bravado.
- Michelle and Ryan argue that untreated ego and fearlessness are more likely to get you killed than keep you alive.
From Wisconsin Farm To Fighter Jet Dream
- Michelle grew up in rural Wisconsin with no aviation family and became obsessed after seeing F-15s take off.
- That single ramp‑side moment shifted her plan from FBI to pursuing pilots via ROTC.
Representation Makes Possibilities Real
- Representation converts impossible careers into conceivable goals by making success feel human and attainable.
- Michelle emphasizes 'see it to be it' as crucial for inspiring young people to pursue aviation.
