About this episode
Miss America 2024, Madison Marsh, discusses the crossroads of pageantry and the military. In this episode, Madi takes us through her groundbreaking journey as the first active-duty officer to earn the Miss America title. She shares insights into her pilot training, attending the United States Air Force Academy, cancer research, starting a non-profit, and how a military background has influenced her career. This one is going to be cool! Key Takeaways: Madi has always been fascinated by science and found her love of aerospace while attending space camp at 13 years old. Madi earned her pilot's license at 17, the youngest possible age. While attending the United States Air Force Academy, Madi studied astrophysics and interned at NASA and Harvard. At the Academy, Madi started her pageantry journey, winning Miss Academy and Miss Colorado. In January of 2024, Madi competed in and won Miss America, becoming the first active military officer to earn the title. Madi started the Whitney Marsh Foundation after losing her Mom to pancreatic cancer. This organization helps provide education and funding for pancreatic cancer research. Madi encourages listeners to learn from their failures and to use those lessons to succeed further. Resources: Miss America Website One Lieutenant’s Journey from USAFA to Miss Colorado to Harvard (United States Air Force) Madison Marsh: Beauty Queen, Hard-Core Air Force Officer (Forbes) Whitney Marsh Foundation