What the First Latina U.S. Air Force Pilot, Olga Custodio, Teaches Us About Building a Stronger Industry

What the First Latina U.S. Air Force Pilot, Olga Custodio, Teaches Us About Building a Stronger Industry

Author: Shaesta Waiz, Michael Wildes June 19, 2025 Duration: 35:17
In this powerful conversation, host Shaesta Waiz speaks with Retired Lt. Col. Olga E. Custodio, the first Latina to fly for the United States Air Force and later, the first Latina commercial airline captain in the U.S. Olga shares the deeply personal and professional journey behind her groundbreaking aviation career—one that began after starting a family, not before. Together, they unpack cultural norms, leadership, and the rollback of DEI initiatives in today’s aviation climate. Olga discusses how women—especially Latinas—can stand firm in spaces where they don’t yet see themselves reflected, and why now is the time to preserve and elevate our stories, even as others try to erase them. This episode is a masterclass in persistence, purpose, and public service. Major Themes & Concepts ✅ Equity and excellence are inseparable ✅ Male and female allies accelerate change ✅ Family first doesn’t mean career last ✅ Confidence comes from preparation, faith, and self-trust ✅ Institutional bias can be dismantled ✅ Stories must be preserved ✅ Leadership’s tone sets the pipeline ✅ Legacy lives in service Chapter Breakdown 00:00 | Equity fuels excellence 01:11 | Olga's historic military and airline firsts 03:26 | Military childhood shaped global worldview 07:28 | Marriage and motherhood built career foundation 12:19 | Persistence despite bias and rejection 19:00 | DEI rollbacks threaten aviation’s future 24:11 | Latina pilots belong—find your allies 30:15 | Leaders must champion inclusive pipelines 34:12 | Stay visible, grounded, and accessible Follow Olga Custodio Website: www.purflygirl.com LinkedIn: Olga Custodio Instagram: @olgaecustodio Follow Shaesta Waiz Website: shaestawaiz.com LinkedIn: Shaesta Waiz Instagram: @shaesta.waiz TikTok: @shaestawaiz Shaesta Waiz on YouTube YouTube (Aviate Platform) Production, Distribution, and Marketing By Massif Studio & Production & The Tallawah Group www.massifsp.com LinkedIn: Massif Studio & Production Website: www.TallawahWorldwide.com LinkedIn: The Tallawah Group For inquiries about sponsoring the podcast, email hello@MassifKroo.com. 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
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