#24 Fast Jet Pilot Mandy Hickson on Failure and the Power of Belief
Episode description
Mandy Hickson is a pioneering former fast jet pilot and now a motivational public speaker.
Her remarkable career saw her become only to second female to fly a Tornado GR4 on the front line, including 45 missions over Iraq during three operational tours.
Despite her incredible career and success Mandy's story wasn't all plain sailing. After initial awards for flying in the Air Training Corps, she twice failed the RAF flying aptitude test and was told she didn't have what it takes to be a fast jet pilot.
Undeterred, Mandy showed unwavering belief to overcome the odds and achieve her lifelong dream.
This story of inspiration, drive and determination was detailed in Mandy's recently published book An Officer, Not a Gentleman where she describes the fast paced life and challenges of being a female in a male dominated world, a mum and a pilot.
This is part one of our conversation, which lays the groundwork for understanding the mental framework that allowed Mandy to push past perceived limitations, beat the odds and perform under extreme pressure.