Why Ignoring DEI Is Aviation’s Biggest Safety Risk with Kathryn Creedy

Why Ignoring DEI Is Aviation’s Biggest Safety Risk with Kathryn Creedy

Author: Shaesta Waiz, Michael Wildes July 24, 2025 Duration: 35:09
In this episode, host Shaesta Waiz speaks with Kathryn Creedy—veteran aviation journalist and advocate for workforce equity—about the rollback of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in aviation and its consequences. Creedy draws on decades of reporting and personal experience to challenge misconceptions about DEI, highlight the business case for inclusion, and explore how cultural resistance, policy rollback, and outdated work rules threaten both profitability and safety. They discuss the power of community among women in aviation, the emerging demands of younger generations for work–life balance, and the imperative for leaders to move beyond lip service to real, systemic change. Chapter Breakdown 00:00 | Intro: The Cost of Ignoring DEI 01:31 | Kathryn’s Background & Advocacy 03:07 | Why DEI Rollbacks Fail 05:13 | Women’s Gains & Pushback 08:09 | What DEI Really Means 10:23 | The Diversity Dividend 12:04 | Culture & Economic Backlash 15:42 | Why So Few Women AMTs? 18:41 | Strength in Community 21:32 | Rethinking Work–Life Balance 24:03 | Next‑Gen Talent Pipelines 26:50 | Safety & Mental Health Reform 29:28 | Leaders: Lip Service vs. Action 33:08 | Closing: A Call to Change Follow ⁠Kathryn Creedy LinkedIn: ⁠Kathryn Creedy⁠ 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
Podcast Episodes
A Business Case for DEI in Aviation with Jennifer Pickerel [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 41:23
In this episode, host Shaesta Waiz speaks with Jennifer Pickerel—President of Aviation Personnel International and a veteran executive search consultant—about the rollback of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) effort…
Jessica Ruttenber Exposes How DEI Rollbacks Threaten Aviation [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 27:58
Military veteran and advocate Jessica Ruttenber—retired Air Force officer, founder of Level Up Aviation joins host Shaesta Waiz to explain why dismantling diversity, equity & inclusion programs threatens aviation safety,…