Wonder Women of Aviation

What does it take to become an astronaut—and stay focused when the stakes are that high? In this conversation, I sit down with Ellen Ochoa , the first Latina astronaut in NASA’s history. We talk about the early influences that shaped her path, from growing up during the space race to pursuing science when few women—especially Latinas—were visible in the field. Ellen walks through the realities of...

This Black History Month, I sit down with trailblazer Merryl Tengesdal the only Black woman to pilot the Lockheed U-2 spy plane. From growing up in the Bronx to flying one of the most demanding aircraft in the world, Merryl’s path wasn’t linear — it was earned. We talk about what it takes to survive in rooms where you’re the only one. The pressure. The isolation. The discipline. And the quiet deci...

In this powerful episode of Wonder Women of Aviation , hosts Natalia McAlee and Theresa Eaman sit down with aviation icon Julie Clark — pioneering female pilot, legendary air show performer, author, and lifelong advocate for women in aviation. Julie shares her journey from falling in love with aviation at a young age to building a career in a male-dominated industry during the 1970s and 1980s. She...

In this episode of the Wonder Women of Aviation Podcast , we sit down with Peggy Chabrian , founder of Women in Aviation International (WAI) , to explore how one idea grew into a global movement supporting women across the aviation industry. Peggy shares how aviation scholarships have expanded beyond traditional flight training, why education and leadership are essential to the future of aviation,...

In this episode of Wonder Women of Aviation , host Natalia McAlee sits down with Peyton Burnett — an aviation artist, creator, and rising voice in the air show community . Known for her vibrant aviation artwork and passion for fighter jets and military demo teams , Peyton has quickly become a standout creator in the world of flight. Peyton shares how her love for aviation first took shape, what sp...

In this conversation, Natalia Mcalee interviews pilots Olga Sanikova and Robin Liebman at the Miramar Air Show. They discuss the pink jet, an L-39 Albatross, which raises breast cancer awareness and empowers women in aviation. The pilots share their personal journeys into aviation, the challenges they faced, and the importance of encouraging young girls to pursue careers in STEM fields. They also...

In this episode of the Wonder Women of Aviation podcast, host Natalia Mcalee and co-host Theresa Eaman engage in a deep conversation with Jessica Anderson, the director of the documentary ' The Flight of Jackie Cochran. ' They explore the life and legacy of Jackie Cochran, an often-overlooked pioneer in aviation, discussing her achievements, the challenges she faced as a woman in a male-do...

On this NEW episode of Wonder Women of Aviation , I talk with Victoria Yeager — pilot, author, adventurer, and wife of Brigadier General Chuck Yeager , the legendary test pilot who became the first man to break the sound barrier. Victoria shares how she first met Chuck on a hiking trail, learned to fly with him, and traveled the world at his side. She also opens up about her own fearless feats — f...

This episode was recorded a few years ago—but the insight is timeless . Join us on Wonder Women of Aviation as we step inside NASA’s legendary Super Guppy with Raymond , instructor pilot for the Johnson Space Center . From transporting spacecraft to supporting billion-dollar missions, this oversized aircraft is anything but outdated. Raymond walks us through: The Super Guppy’s origins in the 1960s...

In this unforgettable episode of Wonder Women of Aviation , we sit down with Jessica Cox —motivational speaker, black belt, and the first armless pilot in the world . Born without arms, Jessica has not only shattered barriers in aviation but continues to inspire millions through her relentless pursuit of the impossible. From earning a pilot certificate using only her feet to developing her next bi...

In this inspiring episode of Wonder Women of Aviation , we sit down with the incredible Vicky Benzing —airshow performer, aerobatic pilot, race pilot, and former Silicon Valley chemist. With over 40 years of flying experience and more than 50 different aircraft under her belt, Vicky shares: Her journey from Ph. D. chemist to full-time pilot How skydiving reignited her passion for aviation What it’...

Ever wanted to step into the cockpit of a real fighter jet? In this episode of Wonder Women of Aviation , we sit down with Dewey Larsson , founder of Dream Big Entertainment and the man behind the Top Gun Experience —a fully immersive F-18 cockpit that tours airshows nationwide. From childhood dreams at airshows to launching a full-time business built around aviation history and accessibility, Dew...

Ever heard of DOC? This B-29 Superfortress didn't see overseas action in WWII, but it has an amazing story! We talk with Mary Green about DOC's role in radar training, its near demise as a Navy target, and its incredible restoration. Find out how you can support DOC and keep this piece of aviation history alive! b29doc.org

Ever wondered what happened to Elvis Presley's jet? The Wonder Woman of Aviation has the answer! Natalia interviews Jimmy of Jimmysworld, who rescued the abandoned aircraft and turned it into a rolling tribute to aviation history. Listen to the incredible story, who owned it and how you can see it in person, and learn how you can support Wings of Compassion, the veteran aviation nonprofit behi...

Join us for an intimate conversation with Manfred Radius, a legendary glider pilot reflecting on his remarkable 39-year career as he prepares for retirement. This episode captures the essence of Manfred's journey from his early days in Germany to becoming a renowned aerobatic glider performer in North America. Episode Highlights: Manfred's introduction to gliding in 1961 and his journey to over 1,...

In this week's episode of Wonder Women of Aviation, we are thrilled to have Kara Hueni, a dedicated NASA JSC Flight Management Specialist. She shares her captivating journey to becoming a part of the space exploration dream team! 🌠 Kara's story is truly out-of-this-world as she takes us behind the scenes and shares the secrets of working at NASA, from her earliest aspirations to the thrilling rea...

Soar through history with Gigi Coleman as she unveils the extraordinary legacy of her great-aunt, Bessie Coleman – the first Black and Native American woman to earn a pilot's license. This captivating episode takes you on a thrilling journey from the skies of the 1920s to today's runways, where Bessie's pioneering spirit continues to inspire a new generation of aviators. Discover how a...

On this episode of "WWOA ," we take you behind the scenes at the Atlantic City Airshow . In this special episode, we're catching up with the renowned Golden Knights GOLD team right before they take to the skies. While time was limited due to their imminent mission, we managed to get a brief glimpse into the world of this exceptional team and their daring objectives. The Golden Knight...

In this riveting episode of "Wonder Women of Aviation," we dive headfirst into the exhilarating life of Evelyn Sharp, affectionately known as Sharpie. An accomplished aviatrix who blazed a trail in the skies during a time when few women dared to fly. Sharpie's story is one of courage, resilience, and passion - from her spectacular feats in flight training to her pivotal role in the f...

Join us on The Tinkerbell, a C 46 plane that is part of the Warbirds Over Monroe Air Show! Get an inside look at this amazing aircraft with one of its pilots. Learn about its lengthy history and all the incredible features it has to offer. Be sure to tune in for a unique glimpse into one of the most iconic planes in aviation history. Learn more about this beautiful historical aircraft at : https:/...

Welcome to our EXCLUSIVE interview with the fabulous Liz Franklin of Franklins Flying Circus! In this interview, Liz tells us her incredible story, from being a 3 year old fascinated by aviation to becoming part of one of the most daring and humorous comedy acts around. Get ready to fly high as we explore Liz's role in Franklins Flying Circus, her dreams of becoming a pilot and much more. Lear...

This week's eps Oscar Munoz, the former United Airlines CEO, joins me. We will discuss his new book “Turnaround Time”, which provides insight into the challenges facing airline executives operating during uncertain times. He'll also be giving tips on how any business leader can apply these lessons to succeed in their own industry. Keep watching till the end for more! Order your copy at osc...

In the upcoming episode of "The Wonder Women of Aviation," we are thrilled to bring you an inspiring and informative conversation with our special guest, Gigi Coleman. Gigi is not only the great-niece of the legendary Bessie Coleman – the first African American and Native American woman to hold a pilot's license – but also an accomplished performer, speaker, and educator committed to...

The B-25 Mitchell Bomber, affectionately nicknamed "Panchito," is a symbol of American ingenuity and determination during World War II. This medium bomber was developed by North American Aviation and produced between 1940 and 1945. A staggering total of 9,815 B-25s were built throughout the war, making it one of the most widely produced aircraft models in history. The B-25 holds a special place in...

Laura Humphries, known as "The Flying Princess" to her friends and social media followers, is on a mission to help girls pursue their dreams of aviation. It all started when she saw a Black female airline captain working the same flight. That's all it took for Humphries to know that she could be a pilot.  Since then, Humphries has created a book, titled You Look Like Me, which is designed to...