Aerobatics, Athleticism and Motherhood with Melissa Dawn Burns - Pilot, Flyer, Jumper, Climber, Mom, Wife, Professor and Ultra-runner

In this episode, Sylvia is joined by Melissa Burns, a professional aerobatic pilot, display skydiver, B.A.S.E. Jumper and mom. As a pilot and athlete, she was the youngest female member of the United States Unlimited Aerobatic Team in history and competed for 10 years. Melissa was named the Fastest Woman in the World at the World Champion Wingsuit Jumping Race in Norway and has numerous Skydiving World Records. She is Assistant Professor of Aeronautical Science at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, migrates between Alaska and Florida and takes on her role as mom as passionately as any of her pursuits.

In this conversation, they touch on the the power of female role models, finding clarity in life and work, motherhood, taking risks as an extreme sports athlete, and much more.

Be sure to check out the podcast website, Melissa’s website and our posts on social to see her stunt work and incredible shots of her flying, living, playing and pushing the edge of women in extreme sports.

Topics Include:

Early influences from Melissa's aviatrix grandmother
Aerobatics and skydiving
Making the US Unlimited Aerobatic Team at 22 years old
Assessing risks in extreme sports
The cost of living on a show circuit and burn out
Being a role model for young women
Leveraging your platform to inspire others
Transitioning into motherhood, choices and professional life
World travel and gratitude
Neurodiversity and education
Setting goals, moving forward, enjoying the journey
And other topics...
Resources Mentioned:
Website: https://www.sportsgal.com/
Website: https://www.flyingadventurestm.com/
YouTube Video: World First: Melissa Andrzejewski, Sketchy Andy Lewis, & Jimmy Fitzpatrick take the Desert!

Books Mentioned:
Book: Resonant Leadership by Richard E. Boyatzis and Annie McKee
Book: Alone on the Wall by Alex Honnold
Book: The Push by Tommy Caldwell
Book: ROAR by Stacy Sims and Selene Yeager

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