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Behind the PropAuthor: Bobby Doss, Wally Mulhearn
Behind the Prop is the Podcast for anyone involved in aviation from general aviation to professional pilots. Our hosts Bobby Doss is the owner of a flight school in Houston, Texas, and Wally Mulhearn is a pilot for a major airline and is also a designated pilot examiner (DPE) based in Houston, Texas. Weekly they tell stories, share lessons and tips from behind the prop. Together they have over 24,400 hours of flight time (Wally has over 24,000 of those) and collectively they provide very unique perspectives on general aviation, airplanes, and all things aviation. Language: en Genres: Aviation, Hobbies, Leisure Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it |
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E182 - Mark Patey - Transition from Flying Cowboy to Safety Advocate
Episode 187
Monday, 24 November, 2025
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.
