Behind the Prop

In episode 201 of Behind the Prop, hosts Bobby Doss and Wally Mulhearn dive into the critical first five minutes of flight, covering the high-workload period from engine start through initial climb. They share practical advice on managing radios, passengers, checklists, taxi and IFR clearances, sterile cockpit procedures, run-up flows, and go/no-go decisions to help pilots avoid getting behind the aircraft. The discussion emphasizes repeatable personal flows, checklist discipline, and proactive decision-making for safer operations in both training and personal flying.

In Episode 200 titled 'The Flight Before the Flight,' hosts Bobby Doss and Wally Mulhearn explore thorough pre-flight preparation beyond traditional navigation planning. They break down the night-before sequence including weather outlook briefings, aircraft documentation and qualifications, fuel planning, and personal fitness assessments, followed by morning-of checks using current conditions and personal minimums. The discussion emphasizes building habits with tools like the PAVE checklist to support better go/no-go decisions and safer real-world flying.

In this episode of Behind the Prop, hosts Bobby Doss and Wally Mulhearn dive into the Dirty Dozen, a set of twelve human factor traps that can affect pilots and mechanics alike. Originally released by the FAA around 2011 or 2012 as a poster for mechanics, these traps apply equally to pilots and can lead to serious situations if not recognized. The discussion covers everyday traps like complacency and distraction that bite on routine flights, as well as decision-making and awareness issues. Bobby and Wally share personal anecdotes, including stories about fuel checks during checkrides, the dangers of expectation bias, and real-world incidents like the Eastern Airlines Flight 401 crash caused by a distraction over a light bulb. They emphasize how these factors, including fatigue, pressure, lack of communication, and normalization of deviation, can cascade into problems for even experienced aviators. To combat these traps, the hosts offer practical defenses such as setting personal minimums, chair flying, using checklists effectively, and maintaining situational awareness. They stress the importance of being prepared, honest with oneself, and continuously learning to avoid the Swiss cheese model of accidents. Listeners are encouraged to review the Dirty Dozen poster linked in the show notes.

This episode kicks off the Oshkosh Dispatch series as Bobby Doss and Wally Mulhearn preview EAA AirVenture. They reminisce about last year's event including blimp formations and the massive scale of the airshow while discussing aviation lingo like calling it Osh. Wally shares his travel plans flying the Saratoga from Houston to Madison Wisconsin with fuel stops and packed lunches after missing car rentals in Fond du Lac. Bobby mentions his daughter working with 4Flights and their upcoming announcements at the event. The hosts emphasize the importance of reading NOTAMs following ATC instructions and working within the system for safe travels. They also tease upcoming one minute Oshkosh Shorts videos with quick pilot tips available on social media throughout the week. Listeners are encouraged to follow all channels for video content even if they cannot attend in person. The episode highlights the excitement of the world's largest aviation gathering and offers practical advice for pilots heading north.

Bobby Doss and Wally Mulhearn return to the mics after a break to tackle aviation myths in this episode of Behind the Prop. They dive into common misconceptions heard in flight training, around the hangar, and during checkrides, using a true false or it depends format to separate fact from fiction. Topics range from accelerated programs and school environments to DPE interactions and real-world decision making. The hosts explore whether accelerated training is always faster, how weather impacts learning, and the fine line between confidence and overconfidence on checkrides. They discuss crosswind components, alternate airports, and why some statements like there is always another airport can be misleading. Personal stories from both hosts add depth to the conversation about what really makes a successful pilot. The episode wraps with a lightning round covering myths like twin engines being safer, taking the written exam first, chair flying, simulators, parachutes, controller attitudes toward students, and where learning actually happens. Bobby and Wally emphasize seeking wisdom over opinions and invite listeners to keep questioning and learning in aviation.

Bobby Doss and Wally Mulhearn explore the pilot's journey from student training through the first 100 hours and into cross-country weather decisions. They discuss red flags like poor preparation and overconfidence, share personal weather stories, and offer practical advice on real-world go/no-go choices for icing and convective activity.

In this episode of Behind the Prop, hosts Bobby Doss and Wally Mulhearn dive deep into the essential soft skills that set exceptional flight instructors apart from the rest. They explore why teaching ability often outweighs raw flying proficiency when it comes to developing great CFIs, emphasizing the need to hire teachers rather than just pilots. The discussion highlights how emotional intelligence plays a critical role in the cockpit, helping instructors connect with students of all ages and backgrounds while adapting to individual learning styles. Bobby and Wally share insights on managing student progress, fostering accountability, and maintaining clear communication under pressure. They stress the value of effective debriefs and how these moments build trust and accelerate learning. Real stories from their experiences illustrate the shift from demonstrating skills to creating environments where students can learn through guided practice and even mistakes. The conversation also covers professionalism and leadership, reminding instructors that they serve as role models who shape the next generation of pilots. Listeners will walk away with practical strategies to improve their teaching approach, from using lesson plans and objectives to balancing knowledge with empathy. Whether you're a new CFI or a seasoned instructor, this episode offers valuable takeaways for elevating flight training.

Bobby Doss and Wally Mulhearn tackle the critical question of whether pilots are truly ready for an emergency tonight, emphasizing that you fall to the level of your training rather than rising to the occasion. They break down memory items, scenario-based drills, a real-world gear-up landing case study, and night-specific risk reduction strategies like flying higher and following freeways. Listeners walk away with practical ways to build reflexive habits and stay prepared for the unexpected.

In this episode of Behind the Prop, hosts Bobby Doss and Wally Mulhearn explore the pitfalls of rushing flight training, drawing from real experiences at United Flight Systems. They discuss how unprepared students waste money on ineffective lessons, the marketing hype around accelerated programs, and why most people benefit from a slower, more consistent pace. Bobby shares a story of a student who returned after maturing, emphasizing the need for motivation and study habits to make training efficient and cost-effective. Wally and Bobby delve into practical advice, such as chair flying and balancing life commitments, to avoid hidden costs like failed check rides and burnout. They caution against external pressures and misguided advice, stressing that true preparation leads to better outcomes. This episode serves as a valuable guide for aspiring pilots, highlighting that patience and smart planning can save time and money in the long run, making the journey to becoming a pilot more enjoyable and successful.

In this episode of Behind The Prop, hosts Bobby and Wally explore the perils of underestimating weather conditions in aviation, drawing from personal experiences and historical accidents like Delta Flight 191. They emphasize the importance of thorough weather planning, tools like the Windy app, and sticking to personal minimums to avoid costly mistakes and ensure safer flights.

Bobby and Wally break down how pilots can turn setbacks into growth by mastering mindset, self-talk, and decision-making. From checkride mistakes to real cockpit scenarios, they explore resilience and the FAA’s hazardous attitudes that can derail pilots. The episode finishes with practical mental math hacks for fuel, airspeed, density altitude, and crosswind calculations—giving pilots tools they can use immediately in the cockpit.

In this episode of Behind the Prop, we sit down with NFL wide receiver and pilot Brandin Cooks for a conversation that bridges two worlds rarely connected—professional football and aviation. Brandin shares his journey from becoming a first-round NFL draft pick and one of the league’s most consistent receivers to discovering a passion for flying. What started as curiosity quickly turned into a serious pursuit, earning his private pilot license, instrument rating, and logging hours in his Cirrus SR22. We dive deep into the mindset required to perform at an elite level—whether it’s learning a new offensive system or managing the complexities of instrument flying. Brandin opens up about how aviation has become a mental reset from the demands of the NFL and how the discipline of flying has sharpened his decision-making both in the air and on the field. The conversation also explores the personal side of aviation—flying his family, meaningful trips, and his desire to increase access to aviation for underrepresented communities. This episode is a powerful reminder that mastery, humility, and a student mindset are universal—no matter the arena.

This episode of Behind the Prop breaks down how pilots can recover from an FAA checkride disapproval. The hosts emphasize that disapprovals are common and don’t define a pilot’s future. They outline a clear path forward: understand the debrief, take ownership, and focus retraining on specific weaknesses. Confidence, proper preparation, and even taking time to reset before a retest are key. The core message is simple—one bad day doesn’t end your aviation journey. In many cases, it can make you a better, more disciplined pilot.

“Most pilots don’t lack knowledge. They lack access to that knowledge under pressure.” In this episode of Behind the Prop, Bobby Doss and Wally Mulhearn sit down with Tammy Barlette, a former U.S. Air Force A-10 pilot, Weapons School graduate, and mental performance coach who now helps pilots perform at their best under pressure. Tammy shares how mental performance training—commonly used by elite athletes—can dramatically improve aviation performance by helping pilots access the knowledge and skills they already possess. Many pilots struggle not because they lack knowledge, but because stress and anxiety prevent them from accessing that knowledge when it matters most. Drawing from her experience as a fighter pilot and instructor, Tammy explains why aviation attracts perfectionists and how that mindset can sometimes work against pilots in training. She emphasizes the importance of process-based goals, staying present in the moment, and using mistakes as learning tools rather than defining moments. The conversation dives into practical strategies pilots can apply immediately, including simple techniques for resetting focus during flight, building confidence through small wins, and reframing the internal dialogue that shapes performance. Whether you're a student pilot preparing for your first checkride or a seasoned aviator looking to sharpen your edge, Tammy’s insights offer powerful tools to help pilots think more clearly, perform more consistently, and build the mental resilience needed for aviation.

This episode of Behind the Prop breaks down the myths surrounding Part 61 vs. Part 141 flight training. Bobby, Wally, and Jay explain that neither path is inherently better, faster, or cheaper—it all depends on the student and the school. They clarify that structure doesn’t guarantee quality, stage checks are valuable (not harmful), and failures don’t impact long-term careers. The key takeaway: success in flight training comes from choosing a well-run school with strong instructors and support—not from the regulation you train under.

This episode of Behind the Prop explores how safety culture and decision-making directly impact accident prevention in aviation. Bobby Doss, Wally Mulhern, and Paul Craig discuss why complacency, especially as experience grows, remains one of the most dangerous threats to pilots. They break down accident data showing that most accidents are survivable, reinforcing the need to prevent all accidents—not just fatal ones. The conversation also highlights the evolution of The Killing Zone and why practical understanding matters more than rote memorization in real-world flying. Ultimately, this episode reinforces that vigilance, humility, and applied knowledge are essential at every stage of a pilot’s career.

This episode of Behind the Prop dives into what truly makes a student ready to solo, focusing on judgment, consistency, and safety. Bobby Doss and Wally Mulhern explain why knowing when to cancel a solo flight is just as important as knowing how to fly it. They discuss the role of firm personal minimums, thorough preflight inspections, and performance awareness in preventing avoidable mistakes. The conversation also highlights traffic awareness, clear communication, and calm emergency handling in busy training environments. This episode challenges instructors and students alike to move beyond checklists and build real decision-making skills for safe solo flying.

In this episode, Bobby Doss and Wally Mulhern break down how modern pilot training is shifting from traditional classroom-heavy ground school to an integrated, hands-on learning model. They explain how United Airlines blends online study with simulator and cockpit-based training to help pilots connect systems knowledge directly to real-world procedures. The discussion highlights why using ground school materials that align with a flight school’s curriculum is critical to faster learning and reduced confusion. Bobby and Wally also address the gap between passing written exams and being truly flight-ready, emphasizing that knowledge must be continuously refreshed and applied in context. The episode closes with insights on teaching modern avionics correctly, using technology as a safety tool, and closing training gaps that hold pilots back on checkrides and in real-world flying.

In this episode of Behind the Prop, Bobby Doss and Wally Mulhern look back on 2025 to extract real-world flying lessons that shape smarter, safer pilots. They discuss how automation complacency, fuel planning decisions, and long weather-impacted flights reveal the importance of manual proficiency and disciplined decision-making. The conversation challenges pilots to reassess personal minimums, recognize fatigue, and honestly evaluate proficiency—especially in IMC and unfamiliar environments. Bobby and Wally also highlight how tools like the FAA WINGS program and strategic use of instructors can support continuous learning while reducing regulatory burden. The episode closes with a call for pilots at every stage to document lessons learned, set meaningful goals, and commit to long-term growth and safety in the year ahead.

This episode of Behind the Prop examines how cockpit distractions—both old and new—continue to threaten pilot safety across all levels of aviation. Bobby and Wally revisit major airline accidents and modern GA incidents to show how even minor issues can escalate when pilots lose focus on flying the airplane. They break down today’s top distraction sources, from overreliance on iPads and automation to casual cockpit conversation during critical phases of flight. The hosts also clarify misunderstood scenarios like open doors on takeoff and discuss why proper training, sterile cockpit discipline, and error recognition are essential defenses. The episode ultimately reinforces that great pilots aren’t distraction-free—they’re the ones who catch distractions early and stay committed to aviate, navigate, communicate.

In this episode of Behind the Prop, Mark Patey joins Bobby Doss and Wally Mulhern to share his evolution from a "Flying Cowboy” to a passionate aviation safety advocate. Mark discusses his journey from building Best Tugs and Best Aviation Products — companies focused on creating smarter, safer aviation tools — to redefining what it means to fly responsibly. He opens up about lessons learned from risky flying, the importance of honesty, humility, and preparation in aviation, and how online negativity often silences valuable safety conversations. Mark also introduces his idea for a “Pilot Confessional” podcast, a space where pilots can anonymously share near-miss stories to help others learn without fear of criticism or FAA backlash. The conversation ends on a deeply personal note as Mark reflects on his near-death experience, shifting his focus from records and recognition to longevity, family, and peace — reminding all pilots that safety and gratitude should always come first.

In this episode of Behind the Prop, Wally Mulhern and Bobby Doss tackle one of aviation’s biggest challenges — decision-making for new private pilots. They explore how real pilot judgment begins after certification, when flying solo without an instructor’s safety net. The discussion covers tools like PAVE, real-world stories of in-flight decisions, and how overreliance on technology can lead to costly mistakes. Wally and Bobby emphasize developing personal minimums, maintaining proficiency, and learning from real incidents to strengthen pilot judgment. This episode is a must-listen for pilots looking to bridge the gap between certification and true command confidence.

In this episode, host Bobby Doss and co-host Wally Mulhern dive into the art of flight planning and weather preparation, showing how disciplined habits create safer, smoother flights. Wally shares how he begins planning up to 20 days ahead, choosing smarter fuel stops, evaluating weather systems, and always keeping alternates in mind. Bobby emphasizes organization and readiness, from updating ForeFlight to packing and charging gear the night before. Together, they stress that flexibility, preparation, and judgment matter more than luck or perfect forecasts. Whether you’re flying across Texas or across the country, this episode will help you plan like a pro and think like an airline pilot.

In this episode of Behind the Prop, Bobby Doss gives a candid, behind-the-scenes look at what it’s really like to run a flight school. From managing aircraft maintenance and staff to planning events and ensuring every student’s success, he reveals the countless moving parts that keep United Flight Systems flying smoothly. Co-host Wally Mulhearn helps unpack the daily challenges, unexpected lessons, and leadership mindset that define Bobby’s role. It’s a grounded, insightful look at the business, people, and passion behind aviation training.

In this episode of Behind the Prop, Bobby Doss and Wally Mulhearn sit down with Barry Knuttila, President and CEO of King Schools. With over 3,000 hours, multiple type ratings, and a lifelong passion for aviation, Barry shares his unique journey from the tech world to leading one of aviation’s most recognized training companies. He talks about his early experiences flying with his father, the pivotal moment that led him to join King Schools, and his growth alongside mentors John and Martha King. Barry also reflects on the company’s DNA of authenticity, student-centered teaching, and adapting to industry changes. From VHS tapes to app-based flashcards, checkride preparation, and future learning tools, this conversation reveals how King Schools continues shaping pilots at every level.

In this episode of Behind the Prop, Bobby Doss and airline captain/DPE Wally Mulhearn dive deep into one of the most essential yet often overlooked aspects of flying—energy management during approaches and landings. They explore how pilots must constantly balance altitude, airspeed, and power to achieve stabilized, safe landings. Wally shares check ride insights and real-world airline techniques, while Bobby reflects on lessons from his early flying days, including porpoising landings and learning the importance of proper speeds. Together, they break down practical strategies, highlight common pitfalls like over-correcting or flying too fast, and emphasize building muscle memory for situational awareness. The conversation blends humor, experience, and clear teaching points, offering actionable advice for student pilots and seasoned aviators alike.

Darren Pleasance’s aviation journey blends passion, resilience, and business leadership. From early mentorship to overcoming medical hurdles, he built a diverse flying career while excelling at McKinsey and Google. Now leading AOPA, he champions pilot advocacy, medical certification reform, airport preservation, and youth aviation education, ensuring aviation’s sustainable future.

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!

This week we are joined by Russ Keith, the executive director of Operation Airdrop. Hear the fascinating story of the work their pilots did recently providing relief to victims of the Texas Hill Country flooding.

This week's episode was recorded in front of a live studio audience!

Our very own Bobby Doss appeared on a radio station in his hometown to discuss some recent aviation incidents in the news.

Flight instructor and social media superstar "Fly With Kay" joins Bobby this week!

Wally brings some real world checkride experience to this episode, and shares with all of us some great tips to keep in our aviator's toolbox!

This week's episode comes in as a listener suggestion from a current instrument student. The guys discuss some tips and tricks to not let yourself get behind the aircraft.

Join us this week for a smattering of nuggets that could polish up your training!

Bobby and Wally chat with a real life Blue Angel! Scott Kartvedt is not only a Blue Angel, but also a military veteran and a major airline pilot. Enjoy this fascinating episode!

We are joined by Scott Williamson, a professional drummer and record producer with a very impressive resume. Scott discusses his love for music, as well as flying airplanes!

Famed aviation author Paul Craig returns to talk about the 3rd edition of his hit book "The Killing Zone".

The show hits the road for "Redbird Migration" in Colorado, and we're talking all things sims!

If you've made it through private and instrument training, it's time to up your game... and have a commercial mindset!

Bobby and Wally share some excellent tips this week on keeping cool when your plan goes out the window!

As Bobby works on a new type rating, the guys discuss SIDs & STARs this week on Behind The Prop!

This week we turn to the fantastic "Behind The Prop" audience to answer some listener questions!

It's a skill that can help you pass a checkride, and more importantly, it's a skill that can save your life! This week we're talking about recognizing system problems.

This week we chat with Chelsea and Scott from SouthWings, an amazing organization that allows pilots to volunteer their time to aid in conservation efforts in the Southeast!

Nate Ehlers, founder of "The Backseat Pilot" joins us this week to talk about his company, his career, and his unique path into the world of aviation!

Our three part "mock instrument checkride" series concludesthis week, with part three. If you've got an instrument 'ride coming up, listen up as a flight school owner and DPE give you some excellent tips!

Our three part "mock instrument checkride" series continues this week, with part two. If you've got an instrument 'ride coming up, listen up as a flight school owner and DPE give you some excellent tips!

Our "mock private checkride" series was so popular... we decided to do it again, but for the instrument 'ride!

We talk with Jay Robinson, United Flight Systems Vice President. Jay is an accomplished pilot who has flown to the Bahamas many times. He shares all the tips and tricks you'll need to know if you ever want to attempt this amazing trip on your own! Flying to the Bahamas Checklist: https://f81c9a18-fce5-450a-b117-092328deac25.usrfiles.com/ugd/f81c9a_9a3a684d58a44ff3adac844b3bc0e589.pdf

This week we are joined by Matthew Stafford! No, not the quarterback for the LA Rams... it's Matthew Stafford the United Airlines dispatcher. Enjoy this fascinating behind the scenes look at airline operations at one of the nation's largest carriers.

Join us for a chat on all things 91.103 this week on Behind the Prop!

We're back at it with part 3 of our Mock Private Pilot Checkride series. If you've got a 'ride coming up, this episode is tailor made for you!

Join us for a chat with a pioneer in the general aviation world! This week we talk to the creator and CEO of Flight Schedule Pro and LogTen, Nick Wegner.

Our mock private checkride continues with part 2 this week.

Got a checkride coming up or just want to sharpen your knowledge? This episode is for you!!

That's right.... that's a BIG LOAD! The show this week is all about weight, balance, and proper loading of your airplane.

This week we discuss the endless "hide and go seek" for information in aviation.

We are joined by Hoover from the popular Pilot Debrief Youtube channel. Hoover shares some fascinating stories and talks about all of his success in aviation media.

This week we discuss properly briefing an IFR flight.

It's the first step in many aviation careers, so we talk about it in depth this week on BTP. Becoming a flight instructor!

This week we swap some fascinating check ride stories!

One of our favorite guests, DPE Pat Brown, joins us again to talk about weather and more!

We're talking all about the vacuum system this week on BTP. That's why we say... this show SUCKS!

We discuss how to be a safer pilot and avoid stacking risks that endanger your next flight!

When is the last time you thought about the pitot static system? This week we go back to basics and delve into one of the most important systems on the airplane!

As we congratulate our own Wally on 1,000 checkrides given, we tap his brain and discuss aeronautical decision making this week on Behind The Prop!

Fellow aviation podcaster and aviator Jim Schilling joins us for a great conversation about careers in aviation!

We're back after a brief holiday break! This week we are talking about handling your checkride like a professional.

This week we discuss the go/no-go decision on checkride day!

A good pilot always prepares for a BAD day. We discuss a few life saving procedures on this week's episode.

We are talking about that vital lifeblood that keeps our airplanes in the air... FUEL!

Today we reflect on some recent tragedies in the general aviation community. Here's a link to the video referenced in today's show -- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V-PDjwT97_s

There's nothing worse than a checkride that ends before it even begins. We discuss properly qualifying for your checkride in this week's episode of Behind the Prop!

Noel Phillips joins us this week!

This week we discuss the subtle dangers associated with deviating from procedure in an aircraft.

This week we answer some of YOUR questions!

It's back to basics this week, as we cover the early phases of private pilot training!

Common sense for pilots. We call it plane sense this week on Behind The Prop!

Let's talk muti-engine flying this week!!

It's a mixed bag of topics this week on Behind the Prop!

Don't over think it!! It's all about flying common sense this week on BTP.

This week we are joined by former Air Force Thunderbird pilot Rusty Keen!

Everyone makes mistakes. But it's how you grow and learn from them that matters! This week we talk learning from our aviation mistakes.

Time to talk IFR checkrides! This week we continue our chat with two awesome DPE's! Our own Wally, and special guest Pat Brown. The guys tell us many of the common checkride mistakes they've seen, and how you can avoid them!

This week we continue our chat with two awesome DPE's! Our own Wally, and special guest Pat Brown. The guys tell us many of the common checkride mistakes they've seen, and how you can avoid them!

This week Bobby & Wally hit the road to do the show live from East Kentucky University's "Safety Standdown". Enjoy this very special live episode recorded in front of more than 250 college students!

This week we continue our chat with two awesome DPE's! Our own Wally, and special guest Pat Brown. The guys tell us many of the common checkride mistakes they've seen, and how you can avoid them!

This week's show features two awesome DPE's! Our own Wally, and special guest Pat Brown. The guys tell us many of the common checkride mistakes they've seen, and how you can avoid them!

This week we dedicate an entire show to the fear of flying. Please share with someone you know who might be a nervous flyer!

We've had some terrible weather in the Houston, TX area lately... so we decided to discuss that devilish little substance that likes to build up on the wings this time of year. ICE!!

Today we hear the incredible story of Matt Cole, a plane crash survivor and flight school owner. Be sure to share this week's episode, it's a special one.

This week on BTP, it's all about sticking to the checklist!

We are joined by David Wright this week. David is currently a major airline pilot and the chief flight instructor at United Flight Systems. We talk about his many adventures, including a nearly three decade career in corporate flying!

This week we walk through every detail of the day in the life of an airline pilot!

Enjoy some Thanksgiving leftovers this week on Behind The Prop!

This week we help create a roadmap from zero time... to getting your pilot certificate!

This week we discuss that mysterious sixth sense that all pilots seem to develop. What it is, where it comes from, and how to use it to stay safe in the air!