How can I switch a high-side transistor from logic referenced to ground?
Aside from IC and isolated solutions (e.g. high side switch ICs, transformers, opto, etc - which is what you'd usually go for nowadays), one simple solution is a reasonably fast discrete PMOS driver circuit like this:



Obviously you can just use the one NPN version, but the push pull increases drive capability. This is just the rough idea, divider can be adjusted and protection added to ensure Vgs tolerance is met. Q1's emitter resistor is to prevent it saturating and lengthening the turn off time.  

Simulation at 1MHz - I added the gate voltage (red trace), note it only swings ~7V, it follows the Q2/Q3 base voltage (a zener can be added as mentioned if needed):