Behind the Prop

Episode Overview

This episode of Behind the Prop, hosted by Bobby Doss and Wally Mulhearn, dives into the hidden costs associated with rushing through flight training. Bobby shares a real-life story from United Flight Systems about a student who paused training due to lack of preparation and motivation, only to return years later with a renewed drive. The hosts explore why accelerated training programs can backfire, how students can better prepare before starting, and the importance of setting realistic expectations for the journey to becoming a pilot.

Key Discussion Topics

The Cost of Unpreparedness: Bobby recounts a conversation with a mother and son at the flight school, where the student had previously quit due to immaturity and lack of study habits. He explains how unprepared students waste money on lessons they can't fully utilize, turning what should be productive flights into expensive review sessions.

Accelerated Programs and Marketing Hype: The hosts critique the misleading marketing of fast-track pilot programs, noting that while the FAA minimum for a private pilot is 40 hours, the national average is around 60-80 hours. They discuss how promises of quick certifications often lead to burnout, failed check rides, and additional costs.

Maturity and Motivation: Bobby emphasizes that a student's readiness isn't just about age but about having the discipline and motivation to study outside of lessons. He shares how a student who returned after a break was far more successful because of personal growth and a genuine passion for flying.

Practical Tips for Efficiency: Wally and Bobby discuss strategies like chair flying, consistent scheduling, and self-study to make training more cost-effective. They stress that flying two to three times a week with proper preparation is far more efficient than cramming lessons without study.

Avoiding External Pressure: The hosts warn against letting friends, family, or online advice push students into rushing their training. They argue that each student's journey is unique, and comparing progress to others can lead to poor decisions and unnecessary expenses.

Notable Quotes

"He took a couple years off, grew up, and came back as a different person. And his training was much more efficient because of it." - Bobby Doss

"Don't try to be the minimum. The minimum is not the standard you want to aim for." - Bobby Doss

"Chair flying costs you nothing and can save you thousands in the long run." - Wally Mulhearn

Takeaways

Rushing flight training often leads to higher costs from repeated lessons, failed check rides, and burnout. Students should focus on preparation, including studying ground material and chair flying, to maximize the value of each lesson. Accelerated programs may work for some, but most students benefit from a steady, consistent pace that fits their lifestyle. Finding the right flight school and instructor who support your individual learning pace is crucial to a successful and enjoyable training experience.

Show Notes for Episode: When FINE Isn't FINE

Introduction to Weather Discussion: Bobby and Wally kick off the episode by sharing their experiences with poor weather in Houston, Texas, highlighting how a seemingly "fine" day can quickly turn dangerous. They discuss the impact of weather on flight training and general aviation operations.

Personal Stories of Weather Mishaps: Bobby recounts a flight where he underestimated clouds during a trip to Brenham, Texas, leading to a necessary turnaround. Wally shares his encounter with rime icing in the Saratoga and how it affected his flight decisions, stressing the importance of early recognition of risks.

Historical Aviation Accidents: The hosts review key incidents, including Delta Flight 191 (microburst crash), Southern Airways Flight 242 (hail encounter), and Braniff Flight 352 (thunderstorm entry). These examples illustrate how poor weather planning can lead to tragic outcomes and underscore the evolution of weather information availability since the 1980s.

Weather Tools and Resources: They recommend the Windy app for visualizing wind patterns and forecasts, originally designed for sailors. Other concepts covered include monitoring pressure changes, temperature-dew point spreads for predicting fog or clouds, and using ADS-B data for real-time weather updates.

Subtle Signs and Decision-Making: Bobby and Wally discuss overlooked indicators like altimeter settings (low pressure signals bad weather), wind gradients, and temperature inversions. They advise pilots to check weather from broader areas and avoid locking into a single source like a METAR.

Personal Minimums for Safer Flying: The episode emphasizes establishing and adhering to personal limits, such as wind speeds, icing altitudes, and fuel reserves. Wally suggests limits for new pilots, including wind restrictions, ceiling/visibility minimums, and landing with ample fuel.

Advice for New Pilots: For those who just passed their private pilot checkride, the hosts recommend focusing on wind, ceilings/visibility, and fuel as core personal minimums. They encourage using tools like the FAA's lapse rate for cloud base calculations and always prioritizing safety over ego.

Key Resources and Concepts Mentioned:

• Windy App: A free app for wind and weather visualization
• FAA Weather Resources: Including METARs, ATIS, and understanding lapse rates
• Personal Minimums: Custom rules for safer flying
• General Advice: Monitor pressure drops, temperature-dew point spreads, and always have a turn-back plan

In this episode of Behind the Prop, Bobby Doss and Wally Mulhearn tackle one of the most important—and often overlooked—aspects of flight training: how pilots respond to setbacks. From checkride disapprovals to frustrating training plateaus, they break down how resilience, self-awareness, and honest self-talk can turn mistakes into meaningful progress.

The conversation explores the reality that mistakes are inevitable in aviation, but how pilots respond to them defines their growth and safety. Bobby and Wally share real-world stories—from rough landings to cockpit errors—and emphasize the importance of learning quickly, letting go of past mistakes, and stacking small wins to rebuild confidence.

In Part 2, they dive into the hazardous attitudes FAA—including macho, impulsivity, and invulnerability—and explain how these mindsets show up in everyday training and real-world flying. Their practical examples make it clear how dangerous these attitudes can be if left unchecked.

The episode wraps with a series of powerful mental math techniques pilots can use in the cockpit, including quick calculations for fuel burn, true airspeed, density altitude, and crosswind components.

This episode is packed with actionable insights to help pilots think sharper, fly safer, and build confidence through every phase of training.

NFL wide receiver Brandin Cooks isn’t just known for his speed on the field—he’s also building a reputation in the cockpit.

In this episode of Behind the Prop, Brandin joins us to share his aviation journey, from earning his private pilot certificate to advancing through instrument training and flying his own Cirrus SR22. What started as a curiosity quickly turned into a serious commitment to learning and mastering the craft of flying.

We explore the parallels between football and aviation, including how Brandin approaches high-pressure situations, learns complex systems, and maintains discipline across two demanding environments. He also shares why he considers himself a cautious pilot, how he sets personal minimums, and what he’s learned about risk management through aviation.

Beyond performance, Brandin opens up about how flying has impacted his personal life—giving him a new way to connect with his family and experience freedom outside of the NFL schedule. He also discusses his passion for increasing access to aviation and why representation matters in the industry.

Whether you’re a pilot, athlete, or someone chasing excellence in any field, this conversation delivers valuable insight into what it truly takes to perform at a high level.

In this episode of Behind the Prop, Bobby Doss, Wally Mulhearn, and guest Jay Robinson tackle one of the most stressful moments in a pilot’s journey—receiving an FAA checkride disapproval—and, more importantly, how to recover from it. The conversation starts by normalizing the experience, emphasizing that disapprovals happen at every level of aviation and do not define a pilot’s ability or future.

Wally provides insight from the examiner’s perspective, explaining that a disapproval simply means a standard was not met on that day—not that the pilot is incapable. The group highlights that anxiety, small mistakes, or even external life factors can contribute to an unsatisfactory outcome.

The episode then shifts to actionable recovery steps. First, pilots must fully understand the debrief and letter of disapproval, ensuring they know exactly what needs to be corrected. Next comes ownership—accepting responsibility as pilot in command—followed by focused retraining that targets specific deficiencies rather than starting from scratch.

The hosts emphasize the importance of confidence, smart preparation, and even taking time to decompress before a retest. They also reinforce that most pilots successfully pass on the next attempt. Ultimately, the episode reframes disapproval as a powerful learning opportunity—one that can produce safer, more self-aware, and more resilient pilots.

Tammy Barlette

Former U.S. Air Force fighter pilot and instructor with experience flying the A-10 Warthog, MQ-1 Predator, and MQ-9 Reaper. She now teaches mental performance training specifically designed for aviators through her company Crosscheck Mental Performance.

Tammy combines lessons from aviation, elite athletics, and performance psychology to help pilots improve focus, confidence, and decision-making under pressure.

Key Topics Discussed

Mental Performance Training for Pilots

Why many pilots struggle with performance rather than knowledge

How stress affects access to information in high-pressure situations

Techniques used by elite athletes that translate directly to aviation

Perfectionism in Aviation

Why perfectionism can hurt pilot performance

Learning to use mistakes as feedback instead of defining moments

Confidence and Internal Dialogue

How self-talk influences pilot performance

Why confidence must be intentionally built—not assumed

Process vs Outcome Goals

Why focusing only on checkrides or certificates can hurt motivation

Using process-based goals to build long-term success in flight training

Practical Techniques

The “What now?” reset technique to stay present in flight

Building confidence through small wins and self-recognition

Staying mentally focused during checkride preparation

Resources Tammy Shared

Crosscheck Online Community
https://www.skool.com/crosscheck/

Crosscheck Mental Performance Website
https://www.crosscheckmentalperformance.com/

Tammy Barlette on LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/tammybarlette/

In this episode of Behind the Prop, Bobby Doss and Wally Mulhern are joined by United Flight Systems Vice President Jay Robinson to break down one of the most debated topics in flight training: Part 61 vs. Part 141. If you’ve spent any time researching flight schools, you’ve likely heard strong opinions—141 is faster, cheaper, more structured… or maybe rigid and bureaucratic. So what’s actually true?

The answer: it depends on the student, not just the regulation.

This episode dives deep into the biggest misconceptions surrounding both training paths. The team explains that while Part 141 offers structure and FAA oversight, that structure doesn’t automatically mean better outcomes. Likewise, Part 61 isn’t inherently more flexible, faster, or cheaper. What really drives success is the quality of the school, the instructors, and how well the program supports each individual student.

They also tackle common myths like:

• Is Part 141 actually faster—or just marketed that way?
• Are stage checks something to fear?
• Does failing a stage check hurt your future career?
• Can you switch between Part 61 and 141 without losing progress?

Along the way, Wally brings an airline pilot’s perspective, reinforcing that hiring departments don’t care whether you trained under Part 61 or 141—they care about your skills, consistency, and professionalism.

Whether you’re just getting started or evaluating your next rating, this episode will help you cut through the noise and make a smarter, more confident training decision.

Bottom line: It’s not about the regulation—it’s about the people and the process behind your training.

Buy the 3rd edition here: https://asa2fly.com/the-killing-zone/

This episode of Behind the Prop takes a deep, practical look at aviation safety culture, pilot decision-making, and the human factors that continue to drive accidents across all experience levels. Bobby Doss and Wally Mulhern are joined by Paul Craig, author of The Killing Zone, to discuss why judgment—not just skill or legal minimums—is the foundation of safe flying.

The conversation begins with real-world examples of pilots choosing to delay or cancel flights despite external pressure, reinforcing that many of the best safety decisions never show up in accident statistics because nothing went wrong. Paul Craig shares data showing that from 2012 to 2023, approximately 82% of aviation accidents were survivable, shifting the focus toward preventing all accidents, not just fatal ones. Survivable accidents still represent breakdowns in judgment, awareness, or risk management, and often occur when pilots adopt an “it won’t happen to me” mindset.

A major theme of the episode is complacency, particularly as pilots gain experience. Wally and Bobby discuss how overconfidence can peak around key experience milestones, such as the first several hundred flight hours for pilots and around 1,000 hours for instructors. This complacency can quietly erode discipline in areas like preflight planning, fuel management, and risk assessment. The hosts emphasize that vigilance must be continuous, regardless of total time or aircraft type.

The discussion also explores the evolution of The Killing Zone and the decision to move its third edition to an aviation-focused publisher. The book’s continued relevance lies in its ability to wake pilots up to the statistically dangerous transition periods in their flying careers and encourage humility, preparation, and sound decision-making.

Throughout the episode, the group stresses the importance of practical understanding over memorization. Real safety comes from applying knowledge in dynamic, imperfect situations—whether navigating unusual airspace, managing fatigue, or making conservative go/no-go decisions. The episode closes with a strong reminder that aviation safety is a shared responsibility built through mentorship, education, and a commitment to putting life ahead of ego, schedule, or expectation.

This episode of Behind the Prop focuses on what truly determines student pilot readiness for solo flight, emphasizing judgment, consistency, and safety over simply meeting legal minimums. Bobby Doss and Wally Mulhern explain that solo readiness is not a checklist item but a mindset. Students must be willing to cancel a solo flight when conditions are not right, whether due to weather, aircraft condition, traffic volume, or personal readiness. The ability to say “no” is framed as a critical pilot skill, not a failure.

A major theme is the importance of consistent personal minimums. The hosts discuss how changing limits based on convenience or pressure can lead pilots into dangerous decision-making zones. Personal minimums may differ between pattern work and cross-country flying, but they must remain logically consistent and conservative. Clear boundaries, reinforced by instructors and aviation leaders, help prevent accidents caused by poor judgment and overconfidence.

The episode also stresses rigorous preflight inspections, especially on familiar aircraft. Complacency with aircraft condition is highlighted as a common risk, with reminders to physically verify fuel, oil, caps, and surfaces every time. Performance planning is equally important, as long runways and home airports can create a false sense of security. Understanding density altitude, weight, and engine performance builds confidence and prevents surprises during solo operations.

Traffic awareness and communication receive significant attention. In acknowledging crowded training environments, Bobby and Wally discuss how poor pattern discipline and weak radio calls contribute to near midair collisions. Students are encouraged to master pattern procedures, listen more than they talk, and fully understand both towered and non-towered operations before soloing.

Emergency preparedness rounds out the discussion. Pilots must be ready to handle unexpected failures alone by prioritizing aviate, navigate, and communicate. Practicing emergencies, memorizing light gun signals, and rehearsing radio failures help ensure calm, effective responses when things go wrong.

Finally, the hosts address training philosophy. Instructors are encouraged to reduce over-talking and create space for students to think independently. The goal is to produce pilots who take ownership of their decisions, demonstrate sound judgment, and fly safely—not just students who follow rules or pass checkrides.

In this episode of Behind the Prop, Bobby Doss and Wally Mulhern explore how pilot training can—and should—better integrate ground knowledge with real-world flying skills. Titled “From Ground to Sky: The Equal Journey,” the discussion challenges the long-standing separation between classroom learning and cockpit experience, arguing that true pilot proficiency comes from blending the two from the very beginning.

Wally shares insight from airline training at United, where modern programs no longer rely on weeks of traditional classroom ground school. Instead, pilots complete short, focused computer-based training at home and transition almost immediately into flight training devices. By learning systems, normal procedures, and abnormal scenarios while seated in the cockpit and actively manipulating switches, pilots gain a deeper, more durable understanding than rote memorization ever provides. This hands-on approach reduces disengagement and accelerates learning by tying knowledge directly to action.

Bobby contrasts this with common practices in general aviation, where students are often encouraged to “get ground school out of the way” before flying. He explains why this mindset is flawed, emphasizing that interacting with taxiway signs, runway markings, airspace, and procedures in real time creates understanding that flashcards and videos cannot. Ground knowledge, he argues, should be continuously reinforced throughout flight training—not treated as a one-time hurdle.

A major theme of the episode is navigating the overwhelming number of training resources available today. Both hosts stress that the “best” ground school is the one aligned with a student’s flight school and instructor syllabus. Using mismatched materials often creates confusion and slows progress, even if those alternatives are cheaper or more popular.

The conversation then shifts to the critical gap between passing a written exam and being ready for a checkride—or real-world flying. Wally shares checkride examples where applicants knew answers by memory but struggled to apply them in practical situations, particularly with weather minimums and airspace requirements. Bobby adds personal experiences where rote knowledge failed under real operational pressure, reinforcing the need for contextual learning.

The episode also addresses modern avionics training, clarifying misconceptions about navigation identification and encouraging pilots to properly use available technology, including visual identifiers and autopilots, as safety tools.

The takeaway is clear: great pilots are not just “good sticks.” They are aviators who seamlessly combine ground knowledge, judgment, and flying skill to make sound decisions in real-world conditions.

In this episode of Behind the Prop, Bobby Doss and Wally Mulhern reflect on the lessons learned from flying in 2025 and use those experiences to frame practical pilot resolutions for the year ahead. The conversation opens with an honest discussion about why there is no such thing as a perfect flight, even for pilots with tens of thousands of hours. From automation surprises in advanced aircraft to long, weather-impacted piston flights, Bobby and Wally share real examples that reinforce the importance of staying mentally engaged and maintaining strong manual flying skills.

Bobby recounts earning his Vision Jet type rating and the humbling moments that followed, including approach errors caused by mode confusion and overreliance on automation. These experiences highlight how quickly situations can escalate when pilots assume the airplane will “fix it” for them. Wally adds his own “never again” lesson involving fuel planning, where chasing cheaper fuel led to delays, extra flying, and higher costs. Together, these stories underscore a core theme of the episode: reliability, preparation, and judgment matter more than convenience or marginal savings.

The hosts dive into personal minimums and proficiency, challenging pilots to reevaluate their limits as skills, experience, and operating environments change. They discuss why flying IFR, especially in actual weather, is mentally fatiguing and why proficiency can erode quickly without regular practice. Wally uses sports analogies to explain the importance of gradually building confidence in real conditions, while Bobby emphasizes aligning personal minimums with terrain, weather, and familiarity—not just legal minimums or flight school standards.

The episode also explores how pilots can elevate their skills by using instructors strategically and taking advantage of programs like FAA WINGS. Rather than viewing instructor time as a burden, Bobby and Wally encourage pilots to treat it as an opportunity to sharpen skills, gain confidence, and reduce the need for formal flight reviews. They close by offering goal-setting guidance for student pilots, advanced trainees, and aspiring airline pilots, urging each group to balance knowledge, hands-on flying, and giving back to the aviation community.

This episode serves as a reminder that growth in aviation comes from reflection, humility, and commitment. By documenting lessons learned, reassessing personal limits, and setting intentional goals, pilots can make the coming year safer, more rewarding, and more professionally fulfilling.

In this episode of Behind the Prop, Bobby Doss and Wally Mulhern unpack one of the most persistent and underestimated threats in aviation: cockpit distraction. Drawing from both historical airline accidents and modern general aviation trends, they explore how small lapses in attention can escalate into major safety events. The hosts revisit the tragedies of Eastern Airlines Flight 401 and United Flight 173, where professional crews became so focused on minor gear-indicator issues that they stopped flying the airplane—proving that distraction, not mechanical failure, can be the true killer. With the NTSB attributing 15–20% of GA accidents to distraction, the need for proactive management has never been clearer.

The conversation moves into the cockpit realities of today’s pilots, where heavy reliance on iPads, automation, and touchscreen avionics often leads to excessive head-down time. Bobby and Wally share recent examples from training flights where pilots missed radio calls, misprogrammed GPS units, or became task-saturated simply because tech drew their attention away from flying. They emphasize the importance of preparing devices and routes before takeoff, and using automation deliberately rather than reactively. A key takeaway is that pilots must be willing to self-identify errors, speak up immediately, and assume the mistake is theirs until proven otherwise—a mindset that dramatically improves safety margins.

The episode also highlights the critical role of the sterile cockpit, with Bobby advocating its use below 2,500 feet in GA. The hosts explain how nonessential chatter during taxi, takeoff, or climb dilutes situational awareness and can overwhelm newer pilots. They encourage instructors to reduce excessive talking as students advance, creating the “intentional silence” needed for real concentration and independent decision-making.

Finally, Bobby and Wally address a commonly misunderstood distraction: open doors during takeoff or initial climb. They explain why an open door is typically benign, why rejecting a takeoff is often riskier, and why pilots must train for these scenarios before facing them unexpectedly.

The episode closes with a call to action—pilots should openly discuss distractions, log them, review them, and build habits that keep them anchored to the core principle of aviation: aviate, navigate, communicate.

In this episode of Behind the Prop, hosts Bobby Doss and Wally Mulhern welcome Mark Patey — entrepreneur, aviator, and co-founder of Best Tugs and Best Aviation Products — for a powerful conversation on aviation innovation, safety, and personal growth. With over 12,000 flight hours and nearly three decades of flying experience, Mark shares how his passion for engineering and aviation led to building products that offer twice the value for only 10–20% more cost, creating a winning formula for pilots who prioritize both performance and safety. His companies now have 47 new aviation products under development, each designed to make flying more efficient, safer, and more enjoyable.

Beyond business, Mark opens up about his transformation from the thrill-seeking days of the “Flying Cowboys” to becoming a safety advocate focused on humility and honesty. He reflects on how earlier flying videos showcasing aggressive backcountry flying unintentionally encouraged risk-taking, and how experience — along with age and perspective — taught him the true meaning of responsible flying. Mark emphasizes that proficiency and preparation make the difference between danger and mastery, comparing backcountry flying to instrument flying: both can be safe or deadly, depending on skill and mindset.

The discussion also explores the growing issue of negativity in online aviation communities, where misinformation and quick judgments often drown out real learning opportunities. Mark and the hosts discuss the need for empathy, understanding, and constructive dialogue among pilots. In response to the fear and stigma surrounding mistakes, Mark introduces his vision for a “Pilot Confessional” podcast, where aviators can anonymously share near-miss experiences and lessons learned — helping others avoid similar situations without fear of backlash or violation.

In a heartfelt conclusion, Mark reveals how a near-death medical experience reshaped his outlook on life and aviation. No longer chasing records or recognition, he now prioritizes peace, longevity, and family. His message to the aviation community is clear: be honest about your skills, stay humble, and fly for the love of life — not the thrill of risk.

In this episode of Behind the Prop, hosts Wally Mulhern and Bobby Doss dive into one of the most important and often overlooked stages of a pilot’s development — the period right after earning a Private Pilot Certificate, when decision-making truly begins. While training provides structure and supervision, real pilot-in-command judgment is built through solo experience, reflection, and continuous learning.

Wally explains that many new pilots complete training with strong technical skills but little real-world decision-making experience. He compares flying to golf — once the fundamentals are learned, consistent, thoughtful application separates good pilots from great ones. Without the safety net of an instructor, new private pilots must learn to evaluate fuel, weather, and personal minimums on their own. Both hosts emphasize that certification is not the finish line but the starting point of lifelong learning.

The conversation covers key tools like the PAVE acronym (Pilot, Aircraft, enVironment, External pressures), which provides a structured way to assess preflight risk. Wally and Bobby also stress the importance of mental rehearsals and “what if” scenario planning to strengthen decision-making during unexpected events. Through real stories — from leaving chocks in place to handling equipment failures — they illustrate how small mistakes can lead to valuable lessons when managed properly.

Technology plays a major role in modern flying, but the hosts caution against overreliance on apps and automation. Errors in systems like ForeFlight can mislead pilots who fail to verify data manually. Proficiency, not just currency, is the foundation of safety. Pilots are urged to set personal minimums, fly regularly with instructors, and stay humble about their skill level, especially after certification.

The episode closes with a powerful reminder: good judgment is learned through experience, reflection, and discipline. Wally and Bobby encourage pilots to embrace real-world flying, learn from others’ incidents, and view every flight as an opportunity to refine decision-making. Their shared vision promotes a culture of continuous learning and safety, helping pilots evolve from newly certified to truly competent and confident aviators.

In this episode, Wally Mulhern and Bobby Doss take listeners deep into the mindset and methods behind effective flight planning. They break down how professional pilots think, plan, and prepare—long before the engine ever starts.

Wally explains why smart flight planning begins weeks in advance, sometimes as early as 20 days before departure, especially for longer trips. He shares how to select fuel stops just beyond the halfway point—around 280 to 320 miles—to maintain both efficiency and mental endurance. Past experiences taught him that chasing cheaper fuel can backfire through delays and limited services, making reliability and safety worth the extra cost.

Weather plays a defining role in every flight, and Wally emphasizes checking forecasts repeatedly—three weeks, two weeks, ten days, and again the night before. He outlines how to analyze broad surface charts, TAFs, and METARs to anticipate conditions, adjust routes, and account for winds that can change fuel burn by up to 20% in a Cessna 172. He also discusses planning around TFRs and keeping alternate airports ready, even when not required.

Bobby builds on that foundation with his focus on cockpit organization and readiness. His night-before checklist includes verifying oil levels, charging devices, updating ForeFlight, and packing flight materials. These habits reduce stress, save time, and make each preflight smoother. Wally echoes this with his own structured airline routine—packing the night before, updating iPads, and keeping notes on the yoke for future pilots. Both stress that good organization directly impacts performance and safety, especially during check rides.

Together, they underline a shared philosophy: prepare early, plan thoroughly, and stay flexible. Weather forecasts are only predictions, sound judgment and real-time decision-making matter most. Their combined airline and general aviation experience shows that professional-grade preparation leads to safer, more confident flying.

Whether you’re a new student pilot or seasoned aviator, this episode delivers actionable insights on fuel management, weather interpretation, and cockpit discipline—helping you fly smarter, safer, and more like a pro.

In this episode, host Bobby Doss and co-host Wally Mulhearn dive deep into what it truly takes to run a modern flight school day to day. Bobby offers a transparent look at the enormous scope of responsibilities behind United Flight Systems—from facilities and fleet management to staff culture and student success—illustrating that being a flight-school owner is far more than “counting gold bars.”

The conversation begins with Bobby describing the constant balancing act of maintenance, compliance, and customer experience. He emphasizes the unseen details that shape safety and efficiency: reliable internet, plumbing, lighting, hangar upkeep, and even thoughtful touches like pull-through aircraft parking, which saves students time and money. The two outline the structure of the show in aviation terms—takeoff, cruise, and landing—mirroring the rhythm of a typical workday.

During the “takeoff” segment, Bobby explains his early-morning ritual: checking weather with the Windy app, reviewing schedules, and coordinating with his leadership team to prepare for any disruptions. In “cruise,” he details the constant hum of operations—maintenance calls, last-minute squawks, and people management for nearly 50 employees. He describes leadership as both rewarding and exhausting: motivating staff, resolving conflicts, and maintaining the culture of “UFS to the 5th Power”—Safety, Students, Staff, School, and Self.

As the day “lands,” Bobby focuses on reflection and preparation. End-of-day check-ins, milestone tracking, and student-record verification ensure accountability and celebration of progress. He underscores his commitment to safety, continuous improvement, and recognizing both instructor and student achievements. Despite the administrative load, Bobby remains deeply engaged—flying when possible, mentoring, and cherishing the impact his school makes on aviation careers.

The episode closes on gratitude and perspective: Bobby and Wally celebrate 500,000 downloads of Behind the Prop, expressing pride that their conversations help pilots become safer and more informed. It’s a heartfelt, behind-the-scenes portrait of dedication, discipline, and passion that defines life as a flight-school owner and aviation advocate.

What happens when a tech executive with a passion for flying gets the chance to combine both worlds? In this episode of Behind the Prop, hosts Bobby Doss and Wally Mulhearn welcome Barry Knuttila, President and CEO of King Schools, to explore that exact story.

Barry recounts his early flying background, how a corporate collapse unexpectedly redirected his career, and the fateful moment he reached out to John and Martha King. That outreach led to a role as CTO during King Schools’ transition to the internet era, eventually growing into leadership of the company itself. Along the way, Barry earned advanced ratings, flew Falcons with John and Martha, and became a familiar on-camera instructor.

The discussion highlights King Schools’ unique ethos—authenticity, humility, and an unwavering focus on student success. Barry explains how listening to customer feedback and treating students like friends has guided the company from the days of shipping VHS tapes to today’s mobile-friendly apps, flashcards, and integrated flight school tools.

Listeners will hear about how the flight training industry has shifted from primarily self-paced, individual learning to ab initio, career-focused programs. Barry shares how King Schools has responded by expanding its B2B offerings for universities and flight schools while continuing to serve individual learners. The conversation also covers innovations in course design, the importance of breaking training into smaller, more consumable segments, and King Schools’ efforts to reduce checkride anxiety through immersive preparation courses.

From personal reflections on flying helicopters and biplanes for fun to insights on the future of aviation training, Barry’s perspective underscores both the timeless values and forward-looking vision that continue to shape King Schools. Whether you’re a student pilot, CFI, or aviation enthusiast, this episode offers inspiration and practical wisdom for every stage of the journey.

Mastering energy management is one of the cornerstones of becoming a safe and confident pilot. In this episode of Behind the Prop, Bobby Doss and Wally Mulhearn unpack the topic in detail, showing how altitude, airspeed, and power all work together as “energy assets” that must be carefully managed throughout every phase of flight—especially on approach and landing.

Drawing from countless check rides, Wally describes how many applicants fall into the trap of treating every descent as a power-off glide, when in reality, a controlled descent with power and speed can be safer and more effective. Bobby shares his own learning curve, including stories of fast landings and bounced touchdowns, underscoring why setting up a stabilized approach is non-negotiable. Together, they walk through rules of thumb for descent planning, techniques for recognizing if you’re high or low on base, and how instrument training can help sharpen a pilot’s “sight picture” of a standard glide path.

Listeners will hear practical guidance on the classic “pitch for airspeed, power for altitude” debate, and how those principles apply differently in cruise versus the landing phase. The duo also highlight the dangers of over-correction and porpoising, explaining why patience and small, measured inputs make all the difference. Wally’s mantra—“eyes moving fast, hands moving slow”—is a powerful takeaway for anyone working toward smoother, more confident landings.

The episode wraps with recommended resources like the Airplane Flying Handbook, FAA Risk Management Handbook, and the AIM, plus encouragement to practice energy management on challenging days with an instructor. Whether you’re a new student preparing for a checkride or an experienced pilot refining your technique, this discussion offers the tools to better understand and master the flow of energy in your aircraft.

Darren Pleasance's aviation journey began serendipitously at age 13 in Livermore, California, sparked by witnessing model airplane flying in a local park (02:32)

Boy Scouts aviation merit badge provided first airplane flight experience with troop leader who was also a flight instructor

Airport proximity advantage allowed daily after-school bicycle rides to Livermore Airport for hands-on learning

Mentorship network development through open hangar visits led to free flight instruction from CFI named Doug

Accelerated certification timeline: solo at 16, private at 17, commercial instrument flight instructor at 18

College funding strategy utilized flight instruction income to pay for education expenses

Life decision framework established early: "When faced with difficult decision, choose one that makes for better story" (07:03)

McKinsey departure decision after 14 years applied this principle to join Google despite financial spreadsheet analysis

Alaska bush pilot choice over completing engineering master's degree exemplified same philosophy

Career diversification approach created multiple aviation experiences: corporate jets, glider towing, competition aerobatics, bush flying

Color vision deficiency discovery at age 16 during first medical examination created major career obstacle (09:16)

Initial medical restriction: "not valid for night flight or color signals" threatened professional pilot aspirations

Demonstrated ability waiver process required FAA flight examination demonstrating ability to distinguish aviation-relevant colors

Testing requirements included: identifying plowed vs. unplowed fields, recognizing taxiway centerline lights, runway edge lights, beacon colors

Airline career impact: even with eventual first-class medical clearance, airlines wouldn't hire pilots with any medical history complications

Blessing in disguise outcome: forced exploration of diverse aviation opportunities including John Travolta corporate pilot work, competition aerobatics, P-51 flying

McKinsey consulting foundation provided comprehensive business function exposure across marketing, sales, finance, organizational strategy (05:58)

High-tech specialization and sales/marketing focus opened door to Google global team leadership opportunity

14-year tenure built expertise in helping management teams improve business performance worldwide

Diverse client experience across multiple industries and business functions created versatile skill set

Google and Cisco leadership roles combined with continuous aviation involvement maintained dual expertise (12:51)

Weekend flying commitment included teaching aerobatics at Bedford Airport's Executive Flyers Aviation

Competition aerobatics involvement led to EAA board connections and industry networking

P-51 flying experience enhanced aviation credibility and public profile

Unique qualification combination merged deep aviation passion with Fortune 500 business leadership experience (12:51)

200+ employee organization requires substantial business management capabilities

Public speaking requirements for member events, donor relations, political advocacy, airport community relations

Aviation credibility essential for representing pilot community interests and understanding operational challenges

Advocacy experience needed for communicating aviation value to non-pilot stakeholders

Current aircraft ownership maintains grassroots GA connection through Sea Ray amphibious aircraft and RV-6 ownership (15:11)

Recent flying examples: Priest Lake, Idaho seaplane fly-in participation, formation flying with friends

Backcountry flying engagement demonstrates continued hands-on small aircraft experience

Cost-conscious operations understanding through Rotax-powered aircraft ownership

Base membership value proposition at $89 annually provides extensive pilot support services (20:40)

Pilot Information Center staffing includes deep maintenance experts available for technical problem-solving

International flight planning assistance covers Canada, Bahamas, and worldwide destinations with step-by-step guidance

Aircraft purchasing support through aviation finance group connections and escrow service coordination

Documentation and process guidance for complex aviation procedures and regulatory compliance

Pilot Protective Services enhancement for additional $85 annually adds critical legal and medical advocacy (21:43)

Medical packet review service ensures special issuance applications meet FAA requirements before submission

Legal representation availability for FAA enforcement actions, violations, or incident responses

Specialized expertise access for navigating complex regulatory interactions and protecting pilot certificates

Risk mitigation approach prevents multi-month delays from incomplete FAA submissions

Growing mental health certification complexity requires specialized AOPA medical services guidance (30:28)

Young pilot medication history increasingly common for anxiety, depression, ADHD treatments during teenage years

Historical automatic disqualification being replaced with thoughtful case-by-case evaluation by FAA

Documentation requirements becoming more complex but achievable with proper preparation and advocacy

Dr. Susan Northrup leadership as Federal Air Surgeon working to reduce special issuance backlogs

Processing timeline improvements under current FAA medical leadership showing measurable progress (30:28)

Six-month to one-year timelines still common for special issuance cases with complex medical histories

Backlog reduction efforts ongoing but substantial volumes still creating extended wait times

Professional pilot impact demonstrated through airline pilot medical deferral experiences requiring months of career uncertainty

Airport infrastructure comparison highlights US aviation system advantages over international counterparts (35:56)

5,000 public use airports in US with only 500 having control towers enables widespread GA access

3,500 airports with instrument approaches create weather-independent national transportation network

Germany comparison: only towered airports permitted instrument approaches, severely limiting utility aviation

European model limitations restrict general aviation to VFR-only operations at uncontrolled airports

ATC privatization opposition based on international precedent analysis and stakeholder influence concerns (33:32)

User fee implementation in privatized systems creates barriers to flight training, safety practices, and airport utilization

Airline influence concentration through deeper financial resources shapes privatized ATC board decisions

Airspace allocation shifts favor commercial operations over general aviation access and utility

Safety degradation risks from reduced flight training frequency due to per-operation fee structures

High school aviation program expansion reaching 30,000 students across 1,500 schools nationwide (23:49)

Four-year curriculum structure provided free to participating schools regardless of economic constraints

Teacher training programs enable non-pilot educators to deliver aviation content effectively

Career pathway diversification beyond traditional airline pilot focus to include corporate, firefighting, medevac, bush flying opportunities

Professional development support helps students understand aviation industry breadth and alternative career paths

Pilot shortage solution approach emphasizes local flight school importance over centralized training facilities (38:19)

Military pilot percentage decline requires civilian-trained pilot pipeline expansion for airline recruitment

Local flight school network at thousands of airports provides distributed training capacity

Airport closure threat directly impacts airline pilot production capability and national transportation infrastructure

Flight instructor advocacy role critical for membership growth and student pilot introduction to AOPA services (45:41)

Historical membership introduction pattern: CFIs recommended AOPA alongside essential equipment and educational materials

Current engagement decline among flight instructors requires renewed education about AOPA value proposition

Student pilot free membership for six months provides risk-free introduction to organization benefits

Career-long value proposition extends beyond private pilot training through professional aviation transitions

Public advocacy responsibility for aviation community members to educate non-pilot population about airport importance (47:55)

Medical evacuation services utilizing local airports for emergency patient transport

Firefighting operations depend on airport infrastructure for aerial suppression activities

Economic development impact through business aviation supporting local employment and commerce

Pilot training pipeline at local airports directly feeds airline industry personnel requirements

Do you have a solo coming up soon?  Check out this week's episode and grab some great tips and tricks to make sure you're prepared for your big day!

This week we look back on our incredible week at Oshkosh 2025 and talk about the brand new MOSAIC program, and what it means for you as an aviator!

Check out more from Operation Airdrop here -- https://www.operationairdrop.org

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Check out the Kings' new book "Lift" here -- King Schools|John & Martha King: Lift

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Check out Paul Craig's books here:

The Killing Zone, Second Edition: How & Why Pilots Die: Craig, Paul: 9780071798402: Amazon.com: Books

Flight Times: Instruction and Inspiration from the 2nd Best Flight Instructor: Craig, Paul A.: 9781685642303: Amazon.com: Books

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From this week's show:

Tom Cruise Laughs Hysterically at The Late Show with David Letterman - YouTube

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A few links discussed in this week's episode:

Soaring Society of America - ssa.org

SSA where to fly map - https://www.ssa.org/where-to-fly-map/

Greater Houston Soaring Association - houstonsoaring.org

Tow pilot requirements - https://www.faa.gov/licenses_certificates/airmen_certification/sport_pilot/media/towing_req.pdf

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Link to the Null Report: Joseph T. Nall Report - AOPA

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Here's the link to the Optx stick on bifocals we discussed: Amazon.com : optx

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Here is a link to our video on passenger briefings -- Behind the Prop Passenger Safety Briefings

Here is a link to the AOPA's video on passenger briefings -- Critical Information: The Passenger Safety Briefing - YouTube

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...and of course check us out any time at BehindTheProp.com

Follow us on social media!

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Thanks so much for checking out another intriguing episode of Behind The Prop!  Many of us can't fly every day, but we can stay proficient by keeping our minds on aviation every day.  Listening to your favorite aviation podcast is a great way to do just that!  Please subscribe, share, and if you love the show feel free to give us 5 stars!

This week we begin with a little bit of talk about motion sickness, and then get into some talk on weather and flight planning.

ALSO - we are always looking for your episode ideas.  Have something you want us to discuss?  Send us your ideas!

Bobby@BehindTheProp.com

or

Wally@BehindTheProp.com

Build flight time quicker and more effectively by building time with a purpose!  Options include flying friends, flying to go grab food or catch a sporting event, or even joining an organization that flies medical patients to appointments across your state.  Take up a kid and share the incredible gift that is flight.  Who knows, maybe you'll light a fire inside and inspire another future aviator.  There's so many great ways to build time, and this week we're talking about a few of the ways to do it right!

Links from this week's show:

AOPA Nall Report: Joseph T. Nall Report - AOPA

NTSB CAROL Database: https://data.ntsb.gov/carol-main-public/basic-search

If you've been flying long enough, you definitely have a story about a sketchy traffic pattern situation at a small non-towered airport.  Maybe you saw a student pilot do something crazy.  Maybe it was a pattern that was so full that it didn't feel safe.  Or perhaps you had a close call with an airplane that wasn't making proper radio calls.  Any way you look at it, traffic patterns at non-towered airports have the potential to be dangerous if aircraft aren't doing what they're supposed to be doing.  Hopefully this week's episode of Behind The Prop arms you with some knowledge to improve your skills in the pattern!

Beyond staying night current with our three full stop takeoffs and landings, what can we do as pilots to stay proficient?  That's the topic on this week's episode.  Whether you've got thousands of hours of night time like Wally, or you are very inexperienced at night, we've got some great tips to make you better.  So grab your red flashlight, turn off the lights, and crank up this week's all new episode of Behind The Prop!

Check rides are the source of so much anxiety and stress for so many pilots, but with proper preparation they really don't have to be.  Bobby and Wally work to demystify the big day a bit by running through some things you can do to come prepared and ready to succeed!

Find out more about Tammie Jo Schults, her speaking engagements, and her books here -- The Official Website of Captain Tammie Jo Shults

As pilots, we see other pilots all the time.  But what about those mysterious voices on the other end of the radio... the air traffic controllers.  Sometimes they may seem like robots spitting out clearances at a million miles an hour.  Maybe they'll be the voice guiding you to safety if you encounter bad weather or an engine failure in flight.  Possibly you've even been lectured by one for failing to comply with an instruction.  But believe it or not there are real people behind those voices on the radio, and we've got three of them in studio with us today on the show!  Thanks to professional air traffic controllers Clay, Nick, and Gio for joining us on this week's episode of Behind The Prop!

As pilots, we see other pilots all the time.  But what about those mysterious voices on the other end of the radio... the air traffic controllers.  Sometimes they may seem like robots spitting out clearances at a million miles an hour.  Maybe they'll be the voice guiding you to safety if you encounter bad weather or an engine failure in flight.  Possibly you've even been lectured by one for failing to comply with an instruction.  But believe it or not there are real people behind those voices on the radio, and we've got three of them in studio with us today on the show!  Thanks to professional air traffic controllers Clay, Nick, and Gio for joining us on this week's episode of Behind The Prop!

Check out more about Charlie Venema at CheckedAndSet.net!  CheckedAndSet is ready to provide you with access to professional insight and advice on how to best represent yourself, your accomplishments, and your ambitions in this very competitive aviation marketplace.  Our thanks to Charlie for stopping by to share some of his years of knowledge and experience with the Behind The Prop audience!

Preflight actions are often overlooked, but they really are so important.  We plan so much for our training cross country flights, but when we get our certificate, how many of us are really sitting down and planning each flight in depth?  On this week's episode of Behind The Prop, Bobby and Wally give us some great practical real world tips for preparing for your cross country flights.

Bobby@BehindTheProp.com

Emergencies come in so many shapes and sizes that it's impossible to prepare for them all.  From sick passengers to engine difficulties.  From flight control issues to smoke in the cockpit.  There's a million different situations that could pop up that require your immediate attention.  But with a ton of practice, a cool head, and the proper checklist in hand... hopefully you'll have what it takes when it's all on the line.  This week the guys give us some best practices so when you're facing the ultimate test one day, you have everything you need to get your airplane on the ground safely!

So many pilots have let their currency lapse, and are really intimidated about what is takes to get current (and proficient) again.  Many pilots who have been on the ground for a long time may find themselves faced with new technology that was not even around when they got their certificate (GPS, ADSB... etc).  This podcast is a great place to start if you're looking to get back in the air.  Please feel free to SHARE this episode with a fellow pilot who you know wants to get current again!

So many pilots have let their currency lapse, and are really intimidated about what is takes to get current (and proficient) again.  Many pilots who have been on the ground for a long time may find themselves faced with new technology that was not even around when they got their certificate (GPS, ADSB... etc).  This podcast is a great place to start if you're looking to get back in the air.  Please feel free to SHARE this episode with a fellow pilot who you know wants to get current again!

Whether you're a 45 hour newly minted private pilot, or a 5,000 hour veteran, the weather can humble any of us at any moment!  Good pilots never stop learning.  This week Bobby and Wally share some of what they've learned about the weather in their years of flying, and they give us some tips on what we can do to stay safe when we're in the air and the weather goes south on us!

Our guest Brian Hough (School of Aeronautics/Liberty University) is not only an academic, but he's also an accomplished pilot.  Brian is an ATP rated pilot, as well as a certified flight instructor and a designated pilot examiner.  If you're considering going for a college degree in the field of aviation, don't miss this week's episode of Behind The Prop!

Got a random topic idea for our next episode??  Shoot us a message on the Behind The Prop Facebook page and we'll give you a shout out on the show if we use your topic!

If you're going to be ready for a checkride soon, check out our amazing local DPE's here:

Wally Mulhearn - WallyMulhearnDPE.com

Wanda Collins - WandaCollinsDPE.com

Pat Brown - HoustonDPE.com

When it comes to aircraft engines, we really all just have one goal.  Keep the fan turning!!  As pilots we're taught volumes about how to FLY the airplane... but how often do we pause to think about what's really going on with our ENGINE.  Whether you're a seasoned aircraft owner, or a newly minted private pilot, this week's episode of Behind the Prop provides a plethora of knowledge about your aircraft's engine.

As a pilot you've probably flown hundreds, even thousands of hours in the air without an issue.  But when something goes wrong and the chips are down, will you be able to get your airplane on the ground safely?  We have so many resources at our disposal today, from our avionics to ATC... to even our cell phones.  This week we've got some good tips for you to be prepared so you're good and ready the next time things don't go quite as you planned!

You've probably talked to  guys & gals who fly props, jets, seaplanes, helicopters...  but have you ever heard from a blimp pilot!?  This week's very special and distinguished guest gives us an incredibly unique perspective on aviation.  Get ready for some flying stories like none you've heard before!

As student pilots we learn so much in training, but it all changes when we get our private pilot certificate.  Sure everything looks the same and the airplane handles exactly as it did when we were students.  But now it's on us to make the decisions.  We are the pilot in command now.  It's an awesome responsibility and we should never take it lightly.  This week on Behind The Prop-- decision making!

"The Killing Zone" is an absolute must-read for all new pilots.  Grab the book right here --> The Killing Zone, Second Edition: How & Why Pilots Die: Craig, Paul: 9780071798402: Amazon.com: Books

Send us your questions at Facebook.com/BehindTheProp -- We'd love to discuss  your topic on the next listener questions episode of Behind The Prop!

What's the first thing you look at when you see a new aircraft?  Definitely the paint.  Maybe the panel.  But buried under the cowling lies the airplane's most important system...  the engine!  This week Bobby & Wally delve into the basic components of the engine, as well as some basic things you can do to care for yours and keep it running smoothly.

If you haven't gotten the picture by now... fuel is pretty darn important!  Our mechanic guest Ray told us a few weeks ago if he could only check ONE system before takeoff, it would be the fuel.  Wally said the three most important things to check before every flight are: fuel, fuel, and fuel!  So we talking fuel again this week.  Then we transition into some details on aircraft renters insurance.  What is it and who needs it!?  All that and more on this week's extra informative double episode of Behind the Prop!

Wally has owned several airplanes over the years... and he currently owns two.  Bobby operate a flight school and currently owns 12 aircraft!  So when it comes to airplane ownership, you'll be hard pressed to find two more knowledgeable guys in the Houston area.  Is owning an aircraft a good idea for you, or would renting be a better option?  Listen to this week's episode of Behind The Prop to find out!

You can't fly every day to stay current and proficient.  But you can listen to your favorite aviation podcast and keep aviation on the brain!  This week we're talking about fuel and your airplane's fuel system.

It's one of the first things a student pilot will notice that very first time they take the controls and push the throttle forward on the runway.  For some reason the airplane wants to turn to the left.  Why is this happening and why is it important that we understand what's going on?  Dive into this week's mid-week bonus episode to find out!

Got a checkride coming up??  Kick back, relax, pop an ear bud in and listen to this week's episode of Behind the Prop.  The guys take you through the major things you need to be doing to prepare for your 'ride... and exactly what publications you need to be digging into to make sure your big day goes as smooth as possible.

Certified flight instructors are great pilots.  But they are not perfect people!  Like you, they are just human beings.  Make the most of your flight lessons (and your money!) by using these invaluable tips to hold your instructor accountable.

Set the technology aside this week.  Leave the iPads behind and power down the GPS... because we are focusing on good old stick and rudder skills in this week's episode.  Let's talk about the best part of aviation... hand flying the airplane!

How better to learn than by studying other people's mistakes?  Bobby and Wally lay out some common student pilot mistakes, how and why they happen, and most importantly how you can avoid them yourself!

There are many misconceptions about the differences between Part 61 & Part 141 flight schools.  Is one better?  Does one save you money over the other?  Who better to ask than a flight school owner and a DPE!  Bobby and Wally lay it all out and answer some great questions!

What do most pilots do wrong?  How often should you change the oil?  If you could only check ONE system during a preflight, what would you check?  Our fascinating guest, mechanic/pilot Ray Villalba of E&E Aviation answers all these questions and more on this week's episode of Behind The Prop!

Whether you're a student entering that exciting next phase of training, a new private pilot looking to head out and explore, or a seasoned pilot who has done it for years... the guys share some great tips that will help you become a better pilot on those long cross country trips!

You're cruising along enjoying your flight... when all of the sudden you notice the low voltage light on the panel is flashing.  You glance over to the amps gauge and sure enough, it's showing a discharge.  What do you do?  How much time do you have?  Is it even an emergency??  All that and more on this week's episode of Behind The Prop!

Wally has been a DPE for years, and it's safe to say he's seen almost everything!  This episode includes some great pointers for checkride preparation, as well as some things NOT to do.  If you come prepared you will reduce your stress and anxiety on the day of the checkride... and you will also increase your chance of success!

Learning radio communications is an essential part of learning to fly... but it can be really scary at first!  You're sharing the frequency with many experienced pilots and controllers, and here you are a brand new pilot.  How are you supposed to keep up??  Bobby and Wally bust out the A.I.M. and give us a great list of things to do... and things NOT to do on the radio while flying!

Women make up 50% of the population... but only account for about 6% of pilots in the United States.  Jessica is on a mission to raise that number!  To learn more about the Houston Chapter of Women in Aviation, visit WAIHouston.org.

Night time can be confusing for pilots, but hopefully we help each pilot with some regulations and a few tips.  This week Bobby and Wally break down what constitutes night time, when you can log night time in your logbook and when you can log your night landings.  They also give a number of tips to be safe while flying at night.  

Primary and Secondary Flight Controls.  Hopefully, you use all of them on every flight.  Hopefully, you check them before every flight.  Today, Bobby and Wally go into detail on what you should be checking, how they should be working, and a few best practices.  Let us know what you think and please share the show with a friend.  Thanks!

There is nothing like the first time and this week we both reflect on and celebrate the FIRST SOLO.  Probably a day that aviators remember more than most, join us as we reflect on Wally's first solo exactly 39 years later today - December 7, 1981.  Bobby's first solo came in July 2015 and we both reminisce on those days.  We also interview a student who just solo'ed and get to relive that moment all over again,  Finally, we share a number of tips and tricks to make your solo go great!  Check out Bobby's first solo video below!  Enjoy!

Bobby's First Solo Video

Happy Holidays!!  This week Behind the Prop shares their top 10 or so gift ideas for the pilot in your life (whether that is you or someone you shared this podcast with).   We cover a lot of products and gift ideas this week to help you decide on big gifts, little gifts, and maybe a few things to avoid this year as well.  Hopefully, everyone has a wonderful holiday season and we also hope you were not on the naughty list.  Oh yeah, maybe you will get an ADS-B in receiver this year so you can avoid Santa too!  

We have been asked a number of times to put together a show on how to best tackle the economics of flight training.  There are MANY opinions here and hopefully, we share a number of ideas that will help everyone get the proper amount of training while also saving some money!  In a part of this show, we tackle the question about whether you should "knock out your written" before you start training.  Too often we both hear from people that have been told to knock it out, listen in, and hear what we think about that piece of advice.  

Devin Miller has been flying for the past three years and has come a long way.  He literally walked in one Sunday afternoon and wanted to fly.  We took him up and he has been a great friend, partner, and aviator ever since.  Devin and Bobby have literally flown thousands of miles together and share a passion for aviation.  On the show today Devin, Bobby, and Wally challenge listeners on their aviation proficiency.  As the holidays approach, we discuss the woes of flying without proficiency and talk about how we all stay proficient.  Wally calls out a great book that I have read since we recorded the show, please check it out: The Killing Zone, by Paul Craig.  

This week Bobby and Wally discuss a system for the first time and believe it will be the first of many.  Each time we fly we do a magneto check and as Wally says, he hopes we change the name to an ignition check.  There are a lot more things we are checking besides the magneto and hopefully you learn a few things this week.  Let us know what you think and please share the show with a friend.  Thanks!

In the mid-80s it was a decision my parents and the wrestle with, paper vs plastic as they checked out at the grocery store.  Now as pilots many of us have quickly moved from the paper choice to an electronic one.  Bobby and Wally discuss what is legal and some best practice as you too may wrestle with the decision between paper vs. plastic.  No matter what you choose to use, make sure you understand them and know exactly how to use them.  Until next week, fly safe and stay behind the prop!

Pat Brown has a long history in aviation and not only serves the "Texas Triangle" as the AOPA You Can Fly Ambassador, and he is also a Designated Pilot Examiner.  Pat and Wally have a long past and didn't even know they were both pilots when they first started working together.  We cover that and many more topics on this week's show including their general aviation pet peeves!   Fly safe and stay behind the prop!

This week Bobby tells his near-miss story.  While these are more common than they should be some are closer than others!   We won't give it away here, but Bobby comes VERY CLOSE to the big one and shares what he thinks saved him and his passenger from the "BIG ONE".  This near-miss story could happen to each of us and both Bobby and Wally hope the show helps everyone be a little safe.  Fly safe everyone!

Checklist usage sounds simple.  #1 - Use one.  #2 - Follow it.  It continues to be one thing that pilots don't do frequently enough and causes problems, both big and small.  Wally shares some things that he sees on check rides (even applicants reading them upside down), and Bobby shares a lot of what he sees around the flight school.  Please share this episode with other pilots and fly safe!

Bobby started his training to become a pilot in May of 2015.  He really only thought he would get his private pilot's license and fly for fun.  Like most pilots though, he quickly realized to be a better pilot, and to fly further he would need his instrument rating.  On August 24, 2017, Bobby showed up at his flight school - United Flight Systems - www.unitedflight.com to meet his DPE, Wally Mulhearn.  Today's show is a reflection of that day, and just a few tips and tricks to make your instrument check ride go smoothly. 

This week you meet our hosts Bobby Doss and Wally Mulhearn.  Both are based in Houston and often spend time behind the prop.  Wally is a pilot for a major airline and designated pilot examiner (DPE) with over 400 check rides administered.  Bobby owns a large flight school in Houston that trains Part 61, Part 141, and is an affiliate with Liberty University.  Both share their passion for giving back and why they are investing in this Podcast.  Subscribe wherever you listen to Podcasts!