Advocating for Mental Health in Aviation with Capt. Renée O’Shaughnessy.

AVIATE with Shaesta

In this episode of the AVIATE with Shaesta podcast, we sit down with Capt. Reyne O’Shaughnessy, an airline veteran with 35 years of flying experience and the author of This Is Your Captain Speaking: What You Should Know About Your Pilot’s Mental Health. Reyne shares her inspiring journey from summer typist and flight attendant to the cockpit of the Boeing 747, offering an inside look at the challenges and triumphs of life as a pilot.

Reyne opens up about the mental health challenges unique to aviation, discussing how sleep disruption, fear of disclosure, and demanding schedules impact pilots’ well-being and performance. She also highlights her initiatives to support flight crews, including programs for Aviation Medical Examiners and peer volunteers, and provides actionable strategies for managing stress. This conversation is a must-listen for pilots, aspiring aviators, and anyone curious about the role mental health plays in aviation safety.

Chapter Breakdown

00:00 – Introduction & Reyne’s Career Path

Shaesta introduces Capt. Reyne O’Shaughnessy and explores her journey from summer typist and flight attendant to commanding a Boeing 747.

06:15 – Mental Health Challenges Unique to Aviation

Reyne discusses the stigma pilots face when seeking help, how irregular schedules disrupt sleep and wellness, and the connection between chronic stress and flight safety.

14:30 – Overcoming the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” Attitude

Why honest conversations about mental health are essential for aviation safety, and how organizations can foster safer environments for disclosure.

21:50 – Practical Strategies for Well-Being

Reyne shares tips for prioritizing health, including the importance of sleep routines, mindfulness techniques, and building a supportive community.

29:10 – Initiatives and Future Projects

Highlights of Reyne’s work with Aviation Medical Examiners, peer volunteers, and collaborations with airlines to integrate mental health components into pilot training programs.

35:00 – Final Reflections & Next Steps

Shaesta and Reyne recap key takeaways and discuss the future of mental health initiatives in aviation, leaving listeners with actionable advice for fostering well-being in high-stress environments.

Whether you're in the aviation industry or simply interested in mental health and performance, this episode offers invaluable insights into how taking care of pilots' well-being is vital for a safer and healthier aviation landscape.

Connect with Shaesta

Website: ShaestaWaiz.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaestawaiz/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shaesta.waiz/

Production, Distribution, and Marketing

Produced and distributed by Massif Studio & Production and The Tallawah Group:

• Website: www.massifsp.com
• LinkedIn: Massif Studio & Production
• Website: www.TallawahWorldwide.com
• LinkedIn: The Tallawah Group

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