President of New Vista Acquisition Corp. & Founder of AirFinance & XOJet, Kirsten Bartok Touw talks about Innovation & Investing in Aviation

President of New Vista Acquisition Corp. & Founder of AirFinance & XOJet, Kirsten Bartok Touw talks about Innovation & Investing in Aviation

Author: Shaesta Waiz, Michael Wildes September 17, 2021 Duration: 56:12
Kirsten Bartok Touw is the founder and managing partner at AirFinance, which specializes in structured finance, leasing, and the financing of aircraft, with emphasis on emerging markets. In addition, Kirsten is the Co-President, COO, and Director of New Vista, a special purpose acquisition company. Prior to AirFinance, she was Vice President, Strategy, Structured Finance & Corporate Development at Hawker Beechcraft Corporation. Kirsten was a co-founder, board member, and CFO of XOJET, where she was part of the original core executive team that built the private jet charter company and developed its innovative business jet, outsourcing model. Before joining XOJET, Kirsten spent over 12 years in private equity, venture capital, investment banking, and capital markets. Most recently Kirsten was a partner at Alpine Investors, a San Francisco-based investment firm, where she focused on aerospace, business process outsourcing, education/training, and retail. Kirsten received a BA, cum laude, from the University of Pennsylvania where she was a Benjamin Franklin Scholar, and an MBA from Stanford University's Graduate School of Business. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In each episode of AVIATE with Shaesta, host Shaesta Waiz-herself recognized as the youngest woman to fly solo around the world-creates a unique space for dialogue. She is joined by co-host Michael Wildes as they connect with a remarkable roster of female aviators. These aren't just interviews; they are honest, meandering conversations with trailblazers, record-setters, mothers, adventurers, and entrepreneurs. Together, they explore the nuanced realities of navigating a field where women are still pioneers. The discussions naturally extend beyond the cockpit, touching on broader themes of society, culture, and the complex relationships and personal dramas that shape these high-flying lives, all while acknowledging the technology that makes their journeys possible. You’ll hear stories of triumph and setback, the balance of personal ambition with family life, and the sheer adventure of viewing the world from above. This podcast goes deeper than the typical aviation narrative, offering a genuine look at the community, challenges, and profound joys that define these women's experiences. Tune in for a series that feels more like a series of intimate, global conversations than a formal show, all guided by Shaesta’s unique perspective and heartfelt curiosity.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 94

AVIATE with Shaesta
Podcast Episodes
Shelly Simi: A Legacy of Innovation and Leadership in Aviation [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 45:14
‍What We Discuss: 00:00 Intro 03:17 Introduction of Shelly Simi, a leader in aviation innovation and strategic initiatives. 10:55 Shelly’s early life in the Mississippi Delta and inspiration from crop dusters. 12:58 Tran…
Cat Clay Wren's Rise in Business Aviation [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 44:58
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 rura…
Flight and Family: Julia Harrington's Aviation and Motherhood Journey [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 52:34
About Julia Harrington: Lead Captain and Base Manager at Axis Jet in Chicago. Known for her pioneering role as a woman in the aviation industry. Balances her professional career with motherhood. Early Interests and Influ…
From Family Legacy to Aviation Leadership: Jenny Showalter's Journey [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 46:10
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…