Cats On Guard

21 Episodes
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By: MC Howe and Rich Million

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...

Listener Mail and Spouse Appreciation
#21
Last Tuesday at 9:00 AM

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.


Passenger Misbehavior
#20
04/28/2025

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.


Home (un)Sweet Hotels
#19
04/22/2025

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...


Worst Employers
#18
04/14/2025

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.


The Dreaded Chief Pilot
#17
04/07/2025

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.


General Aviation
#16
03/31/2025

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.


Speak Like a Pilot
#15
03/24/2025

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.


Worst Pilots Part 2
#14
03/18/2025

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.


Worst Pilots Part 1
#13
03/11/2025

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.


Walk of Shame
#12
03/04/2025

MC Howe and Rich Million share humorous and relatable stories about the unique challenges of using airplane bathrooms, the importance of bathroom breaks for pilots, and the absurdities of airport facilities. They also discuss personal experiences with food choices during flights and the impact of those choices on their comfort. The episode highlights the camaraderie and shared experiences of pilots and flight attendants, making it a light-hearted yet insightful exploration of life in the aviation industry.


Snacks on a Plane!
#11
02/25/2025

Rich Million and MC Howe dig deep inside the snack box to discuss all manner of inflight food. From coffee pot grilled cheese to tuna on tortillas, we've experienced every imaginable food hack necessary to survive a career in aviation.


Don't Say This To The Pilot
#10
02/18/2025

MC Howe and Rich Million, both seasoned airline pilots, share their experiences and insights about the life of a pilot. They discuss the frequent interactions with the public, the misconceptions surrounding flying, and the humorous yet frustrating questions they receive from passengers. The conversation also touches on the challenges of communication in the aviation industry and the reality of pilot work, including the pressures and expectations placed on them. Through anecdotes and light-hearted banter, they provide a unique perspective on the aviation world, making it relatable and entertaining for listeners.


Quirks, Creeps and Pee-Ice
#9
02/11/2025

In this episode of 'Cats on Guard', hosts MC Howe and Rich Million delve into the quirky and often humorous world of aviation. They discuss the misconceptions surrounding pilots and flight attendants, share personal anecdotes from their experiences in crash pads, and explore the unique camaraderie among pilots. The conversation also touches on the impact of COVID-19 on the aviation industry and the humorous realities of life in airports and on planes.


Cats On A Plane!
#8
02/03/2025

In this episode of Cats on Guard, hosts MC Howe and Captain Richard discuss their experiences with TSA regulations, no-fly lists, and humorous anecdotes from their time in the aviation industry. They share stories about vaping incidents, the absurdity of TSA rules, and the challenges of traveling with pets and children. The conversation highlights the quirks and challenges of airport security, providing listeners with a light-hearted yet insightful look into the world of aviation.


Flying Sent Me to the ER
#7
01/28/2025

MC Howe and Captain Rich Million discuss the critical role of medical certificates in aviation, sharing personal anecdotes and insights into the challenges pilots face regarding their health. They explore the relationship between medical and pilot certificates, the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and the often-overlooked mental health aspects of being a pilot. The conversation also touches on the role of unions in supporting pilots' health and the experiences with aviation medical examiners. Ultimately, the episode emphasizes the need for pilots to prioritize their health and well-being while navigating the complexities of the aviation industry.


Meat! It's All About the Meat!
#6
01/21/2025

Hosts MC Howe and Captain Richard Million explore a variety of themes related to their experiences as pilots, including their love for concerts, travel planning, family connections through sports, unique travel experiences, and the balance of work and family life. They share humorous anecdotes from their travels, discuss the realities of being a pilot, and reflect on their culinary adventures, particularly with barbecue and Brazilian steakhouses. The conversation also touches on the challenges of navigating life with glasses, the dynamics of social interactions among pilots, and the importance of making the most of their time away from home.
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For the Love of Donuts; FOs Not So Much
#5
01/14/2025

MC Howe and Rich Million delve into the intricacies of aviation life, sharing personal anecdotes and insights about their experiences as pilots. They discuss the challenges of working with different crew members, the evolution of cockpit technology, and the importance of experience in the field. The conversation also touches on light-hearted topics such as the dream of starting a donut truck and the mysteries encountered at high altitudes, including discussions on flat earth theories. They conclude with reflections on career paths in aviation and the significance of family connections in the industry.


Layover Stories
#4
01/07/2025

In this engaging conversation, MC Howe and Rich Million explore the unique experiences of pilots during layovers, sharing humorous and adventurous stories that highlight the camaraderie and unexpected moments that come with their profession. From fun activities during downtime to misadventures in exotic locations, the discussion reveals the lighter side of aviation life.


Do Cats Meow on the Radio?
#3
01/03/2025

In this episode of Cats on Guard, MC Howe and Rich Million delve into the intriguing world of aviation communication, sharing personal anecdotes and humorous experiences from the cockpit. They discuss the role of air traffic control, the phenomenon of pilots meowing on the emergency frequency, and the various mishaps that can occur during flights. The conversation highlights the importance of communication in aviation and the lighter side of being a pilot.


Do Pilots Have OCD? (or is it CDO?)
#2
01/02/2025

In this engaging conversation, Rich Million and MC Howe delve into the intricacies of flight preparation, organizational skills, and the unique routines that pilots develop to manage their travel and work life. They discuss the importance of having a well-structured approach to packing, the evolution of flight bags, and the significance of maintaining a clean and organized hotel room. The conversation also touches on the challenges of eating healthy while traveling, the impact of family chaos on travel routines, and the necessity of effective communication in the aviation industry. With humor and relatable anecdotes, the hosts provide insights into...


An (A)typical Day
#1
01/02/2025

In this conversation, MC Howe and Rich Million delve into the multifaceted life of a pilot, discussing the various roles and responsibilities that come with the job. They explore the differences between pilots and flight attendants, the challenges of commuting, the importance of safety protocols, and the dynamics of in-flight operations. The discussion also touches on the experience of flying private versus commercial and the importance of crew comfort and safety. Overall, the conversation provides a comprehensive overview of the aviation industry from the perspective of experienced pilots.