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Cats On Guard

MC Howe and Rich Million
22 episodes   Last Updated: May 13, 25
Cats On Guard is an aviation themed podcast revealing decades of true stories never before shared with the flying public. Experienced airline pilots MC Howe and Rich Million offer a look behind the cockpit door. From mishaps inflight, on layovers, in training and more, most flight crews would never spill these secrets. We'll share our journeys to becoming pilots, living out of suitcases and surviving surreal adventures never before told. Cats On Guard will also review hotels, restaurants and Hollywood's take on flying. For anyone wondering what really happens in the flight deck, or anyone considering a career with the airlines Cats on Guard has the answers. And there is a flying related answer to why its called Cats on Guard.

Episodes

In this episode, MC Howe and Rich Million dive into a detailed review of the film 'Sully,' exploring its portrayal of the emergency landing of US Airways Flight 1549. They discuss the accuracy of the film, the characters involved, and the pressures faced by pilots during crises. The conversation also touches on the mental health aspects of aviation, the role of the NTSB, and personal anecdotes from their experiences in the industry. The dialogue highlights the importance of safety measures, the psychological aspects of emergency situations, and the realism of aviation procedures as depicted in movies. The hosts also reflect on the character development of the pilots and the media's portrayal of the incident, providing insights into the complexities of aviation and emergency response.
MC Howe and Co-Captain Richard Million discuss fan mail and feedback from listeners, exploring the positive experiences of pilots and the challenges of aviation-induced divorce syndrome. They delve into the stereotypes surrounding pilots, contrasting romanticized portrayals in media with the realities of pilot life, including layovers and relationships. The conversation highlights the importance of appreciation for spouses who support pilots, and they engage with listener questions about call signs and family dynamics in aviation. The episode concludes with a preview of upcoming topics and episodes.
Co-Captain Richard Million and MC Howe discuss their recent experiences traveling, particularly focusing on a trip to the Mall of America. They share stories about the challenges of air travel, including passenger behavior, airport etiquette, and the importance of following safety protocols. The discussion also touches on the significance of common courtesy in public spaces, the impact of clothing choices on travel experiences, and the need for self-awareness among travelers. Throughout the conversation, humor is used to highlight the absurdities of travel and the importance of maintaining a positive attitude while navigating the complexities of air travel.
In this engaging conversation, MC Howe and Rich Million delve into the quirks and grievances of hotel stays, exploring the rise of automation in hotels, the cleanliness of rooms, and the evolution of amenities. They share humorous anecdotes about their experiences with hotel services, from robot vacuums to the infamous plastic bag around the remote. The discussion also touches on the challenges of hotel design, including bathroom layouts and the ongoing debate over shampoo and toilet paper quality. Throughout the conversation, they highlight the frustrations and oddities that travelers face, making it relatable for anyone who has ever stayed in a hotel. They share humorous anecdotes about their hotel stays, discuss the often frustrating policies regarding missing items, and highlight the importance of building relationships with hotel staff for potential upgrades. The conversation also touches on practical tips for managing laundry and towels during hotel stays, culminating in a light-hearted discussion about the overall hotel experience and customer service.
Apr 14, 2025
Worst Employers
In this engaging conversation, Co-Captain Richard Million and MC Howe share their personal experiences in the aviation industry, discussing the challenges faced by young pilots, the realities of illegal charter operations, and the importance of mentorship. They delve into the struggles of navigating the job market, the impact of bad employers, and the recent shifts in pilot pay and quality of life. The discussion highlights the need for advocacy and support for new pilots entering the field, as well as the ongoing challenges within the aviation industry.
In this conversation, MC Howe and Rich Million discuss the often daunting experiences pilots face with their chief pilots, the dynamics of airline operations, and the challenges of maintaining professionalism in a high-stress environment. They share personal anecdotes about interactions with flight attendants, the pressures of adhering to safety protocols, and the sometimes absurd nature of uniform policies. The conversation highlights the complexities of the aviation industry, the importance of safety, and the often humorous yet serious realities of being a pilot.
Mar 31, 2025
General Aviation
This conversation explores the world of general aviation, discussing its safety, convenience, and the unique experiences it offers. The hosts share personal anecdotes, insights into the role of Fixed Base Operators (FBOs), and the joys of flying privately. They emphasize the benefits of general aviation over commercial airlines, including flexibility and the ability to travel to less accessible locations. The discussion also touches on the camaraderie among pilots and the fun aspects of flying, making a case for why more people should consider getting involved in general aviation.
Mar 24, 2025
Speak Like a Pilot
In this engaging conversation, MC Howe and Rich Million share new vocabulary, and delve into the intricacies of aviation terminology and duty time. They explore the challenges pilots face regarding duty days, seniority, and the bidding process, while also touching on the dynamics of reserve pilots and the importance of understanding air traffic control. The conversation wraps up with a light-hearted discussion about movies and TV shows related to aviation, setting the stage for future episodes.
This conversation delves into the complexities of working in aviation, focusing on the diverse personalities and skills of pilots. The speakers share anecdotes about their experiences with difficult colleagues, the importance of professionalism, and the generational shifts in work ethic. They explore the impact of humor and camaraderie in the cockpit, as well as the challenges of navigating authority and communication. The discussion also touches on personal growth and the quirks of fellow pilots, providing a comprehensive look at the aviation industry.
This one's all about the worst of the best. Every occupation has its oddballs and flying is no different. From musical pilots, dancing pilots, trapeze-loving pilots and worse. Imagine being locked in a tiny space with the weirdest people you just met. For four days. For a month! And this is just part 1.