Creating Confidence with Heather Monahan: Confidence Classic – NEVER Let Imposter Syndrome Hold You Back with Michelle “Mace” Curran

Release Date: January 15, 2025

In this empowering episode of Creating Confidence with Heather Monahan, host Heather Monahan engages in a profound conversation with Michelle “Mace” Curran, a former fighter pilot and the founder of Upside Down Dreams. Michelle’s journey from a shy, small-town girl in Wisconsin to a distinguished fighter pilot with the Air Force Thunderbirds, and eventually an inspiring entrepreneur, serves as a testament to overcoming imposter syndrome and embracing one’s true potential.

1. Introduction to Michelle Curran

Heather Monahan introduces Michelle Curran, highlighting her illustrious career:

• Military Achievements: Michelle served 13 years in the United States Air Force, including her tenure as the only female pilot for the Air Force Thunderbirds from 2019 to 2021. Her combat experience spans missions across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.

• Recognition: She was named the Distinguished Alumna of the Year by the University of St. Thomas in 2021 and has been featured on platforms such as the Kelly Clarkson Show, CBS Evening News, and Glamour.

• Entrepreneurial Pursuits: Post-military, Michelle founded Upside Down Dreams, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome obstacles and fear of failure.

Heather Monahan: “Michelle was also the only female pilot on the Thunderbirds, a role that requires not just skill but immense confidence and leadership.”

2. Michelle’s Early Life and Path to the Air Force

Contrary to common assumptions, Michelle did not grow up in a military or aviation family. She recounts her unexpected journey into the Air Force:

• Humble Beginnings: Raised in a quiet, adventurous small town in northern Wisconsin, Michelle was introverted and a wallflower despite being driven and achieving straight A’s in school.

• College Decisions: Initially a criminal justice major aiming for the FBI or CIA, Michelle pivoted to aviation after witnessing a fighter jet takeoff during her Air Force ROTC program.

Michelle Curran [03:05]: “I kind of just stumbled into it… I grew up in the country, a really outdoorsy kid, very adventurous, but super shy.”

3. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

Michelle delves into her struggles with imposter syndrome throughout her military career:

• Initial Excitement vs. Hidden Doubts: The exhilaration of becoming a fighter pilot initially overshadowed her self-doubt, but as she progressed, the complexities and demands of the role intensified her feelings of inadequacy.

• Reality of High Standards: Transitioning to her first combat squadron, Michelle felt overwhelmed and out of place, grappling with the reality that she might not deserve her position.

Heather Monahan [09:34]: “From the perspective that I was at, I was in a place I shouldn't be and I didn't deserve to be there.”

4. Experiences as a Female Fighter Pilot

Michelle discusses the unique challenges and strengths she experienced as one of the few female fighter pilots:

• Gender Dynamics: With only 2-3% of fighter pilots being women, Michelle initially viewed her gender as a weakness, feeling the pressure to prove herself in a male-dominated environment.

• Role in the Thunderbirds: As the lead solo pilot, Michelle used her visibility to inspire women and girls, exemplifying that gender does not limit one’s capabilities.

Michelle Curran [20:01]: “When your mission is to inspire and every single demo pilot is a white male, being a woman is a strength.”

5. Building Trust and Team Culture

A significant portion of the discussion centers on the importance of trust and a supportive team culture:

• High Standards and Accountability: The Thunderbirds uphold extreme accountability, analyzing every flight meticulously to learn from mistakes, fostering a culture of humility and continuous improvement.

• Mentorship: Initially lacking a mentor, Michelle later found guidance among fellow female pilots, realizing that sharing struggles was empowering and essential for growth.

Michelle Curran [24:48]: “Each single flight, you sit down with all the other pilots and you analyze that and figure out everything that went wrong and how you can do it better.”

6. Transition to Entrepreneurship

Michelle explains her transition from the military to entrepreneurship, driven by a desire to impact lives positively beyond her role as a pilot:

• Catalysts for Change: The pandemic delayed her plans to join the airlines, prompting her to explore alternative avenues where she could continue inspiring others.

• Upside Down Dreams: Recognizing the fulfillment she derived from inspiring others, Michelle leveraged her mentorship experiences to establish her speaking and coaching business.

Michelle Curran [33:39]: “I realized that the part of being on the team that I love the most, inspiring people in a positive way, was more fulfilling than anything I ever experienced in the cockpit.”

7. The Role of Purpose and Visualization

The conversation highlights the significance of aligning with one’s purpose and using visualization as a tool for success:

• Purpose as a Catalyst: Michelle emphasizes that having a clear purpose propels individuals to move through fear and take bold actions.

• Visualization Techniques: Drawing from her pilot training, Michelle uses visualization to rehearse her speeches and performances, ensuring she feels prepared and confident.

Heather Monahan [41:54]: “It's like climbing a ladder. You get stronger and stronger. You go higher and higher, and you can just go for that much more.”

8. Practical Advice for Overcoming Self-Doubt

Michelle offers actionable strategies for listeners grappling with imposter syndrome:

• Embrace Vulnerability: Contrary to the misconception that vulnerability equates to weakness, Michelle advocates for being open about one’s struggles to build authenticity and relatability.

• Seek Mentorship: Building relationships with mentors who provide honest feedback and support can significantly alleviate feelings of inadequacy.

• Consistent Self-Work: Incrementally challenging oneself, whether through public speaking or other endeavors, helps increase tolerance for discomfort and builds resilience.

Michelle Curran [18:47]: “There's a time for that, especially in the military. But when you have those walls up all the time, it actually turns out to be a weakness.”

9. Embracing Mistakes and Continuous Improvement

A recurring theme is the acceptance of mistakes as opportunities for growth:

• Non-Judgmental Environment: In the Thunderbirds, mistakes are openly discussed without judgment, fostering an environment where everyone strives to improve collectively.

• Balance Between High Standards and Self-Compassion: Michelle acknowledges the fine line between striving for excellence and falling into perfectionism, advocating for a supportive culture that recognizes human fallibility.

Michelle Curran [30:27]: “There's no way you'll ever thrive to the same level if you don't find that true, loyal, embracing, supportive culture. It is such a game changer.”

10. Michelle’s Current Endeavors and How to Connect

Michelle shares insights into her ongoing work and how listeners can engage with her:

• Content Creation: Active on Instagram (@Mace_Curran) and LinkedIn (Michelle_Mace_Curran), she shares jet videos, cockpit experiences, and motivational content.

• Engagement: She encourages listeners to reach out via her social media platforms for business inquiries, media opportunities, and personal queries.

Michelle Curran [47:51]: “I put out quite a bit of content on both Instagram and on LinkedIn… It's been really fun to reflect on things I've learned and translate it into something that can benefit other people.”

Concluding Insights

Heather and Michelle wrap up the conversation by reinforcing the importance of purpose, visualization, and embracing one's journey despite fears and doubts. Michelle’s transformation from a shy individual to a confident leader and entrepreneur exemplifies the powerful impact of self-belief and continuous self-improvement. Her message resonates with listeners, encouraging them to make bold choices and seek their true passions.

Heather Monahan [43:28]: “It's like climbing a ladder. You get stronger and stronger. You go higher and higher, and you can just go for that much more.”

Michelle Curran [45:42]: “You learn to recognize it [fear] as what it is. And do it anyway.”

Key Takeaways

• Vulnerability is Strength: Admitting uncertainties and seeking help fosters trust and builds stronger teams.

• Mentorship Matters: Finding mentors who understand and support your journey is crucial for personal and professional growth.

• Purpose-Driven Actions: Aligning actions with a clear sense of purpose can propel individuals beyond their fears and doubts.

• Embrace and Learn from Mistakes: Viewing mistakes as learning opportunities rather than failures encourages continuous improvement.

• Visualization as a Tool: Utilizing visualization techniques can enhance performance and confidence in various endeavors.

Michelle Curran’s story is a compelling reminder that imposter syndrome can be a powerful obstacle, but with determination, support, and self-awareness, one can overcome it and achieve remarkable success.

Connect with Michelle Curran:

• Instagram: @Mace_Curran
• LinkedIn: Michelle_Mace_Curran

Join Michelle on her journey to inspire and empower others to overcome their fears and reach their fullest potential.