Ever feel like your flight attendants are just out to nag you? In this episode, we’re pulling back the galley curtain to explain why those “annoying” reminders—seat belts, tray tables, and stowing your bag—are actually life-saving safety protocols. From clear-air turbulence to last-minute emergencies, we walk through the real reasons why the little things we ask of passengers matter in a big way. Trust us, it’s not about being on a power trip—we genuinely care. We’re also sharing a wild in-flight story, including an unforgettable moment that had us questioning everything we thought we knew about carry-ons (spoiler: it involves a baby in an overhead bin).

Episode Highlights:

[0:21] Why passengers think flight attendants are “nagging”
[2:13] The 90-second evacuation rule—and why it drives everything we do
[3:58] Why seat belts matter beyond turbulence
[5:32] Seat belt signs during cruise—yes, still important!
[7:31] Turbulence is getting worse—and pilots don’t always get it right
[8:12] Overhead bins, under-seat storage, and the chaos of loose bags
[10:27] Yes, even pilots sometimes break the rules (and we call them out)
[11:48] If you ask whether you can get up—then don’t listen—why did you ask?
[13:09] Why you should actually pay attention to the safety demo
[16:29] We’re not nagging. We just want you safe.
[17:18] What Would Two Guys Do? — Drew’s wildest inflight story: Baby on an overhead bin.

Thoughts on this episode? Text us!

✈

This episode was brought to you by StaffTraveler, the #1 non-rev app. If you travel on standby and are looking to make your journey easy and stress-free, check out the StaffTraveler app in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Visit stafftraveler.com/twoguys to learn more and sign up!

Download StaffTraveler, the #1 Non-Rev App!

✈

Have a story you want to share on our show? Have you ever found yourself on a flight and thought – What Would ‘Two Guys on a Plane’ Do? Send us your wildest or funniest airplane story and we might just share it on a future episode!

Tell Us Your Story!

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Want to join us on one of our upcoming group adventures? There are only a few spots left on our trips to Croatia, Egypt, and Thailand!

View Itineraries + Book Your Spot!

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We couldn’t do it without your support! As independent podcasters, we rely on audience support to keep our show going. Join our community on Patreon at the link below for exclusive content, early access, behind-the-scenes footage, and more! Thank you so much for being part of our crew.

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This week, we’re beyond thrilled to welcome Sara Nelson, International President of the Association of Flight Attendants (AFA-CWA), into the studio. From wrangling a six-foot-seven passenger mid-flight to wrangling billion-dollar contracts at the bargaining table, Sara brings stories, laughs, and powerful truths about the airline industry you won’t hear anywhere else.

We talk about her nearly 30-year career, the moments that lit her fire for union advocacy, and why solidarity is the most important tool we have as flight attendants. You’ll hear about industry changes that impact your flying experience (and ours), how collective action has led to real wins like 10 hours minimum rest, and why flight attendants are so much more than “the girls in the back.” Buckle up – this one’s part hilarious, part jaw-dropping, and 100% inspiring.

Episode Highlights:

[0:00] Welcome aboard & introducing the legendary Sara Nelson
[1:56] Sara’s wildest passenger story – a Vegas all-nighter gone very wrong
[7:52] The moments of solidarity that keep us flying
[8:30] How a snowy day, a phone call, and a pension got Sara into aviation
[14:00] Why flight attendants show up for each other in ways no one else can
[20:29] Early union work, strike lines, and becoming a loud voice for change
[24:36] 9/11, personal loss, and the fight against corporate greed
[29:09] What we wish passengers knew about our jobs today
[34:46] “We are the union” – how every FA can create change
[36:22] From the jumpseat to Congress: Sara’s unexpected path to leadership
[38:30] Building power across all unions – from baristas to auto workers
[43:41] The difference between power and control (and who really has it)
[49:30] Sara’s proudest win: the long fight for 10 hours minimum rest
[53:37] Advice to every new hire flight attendant
[55:53] Why that union pin matters more than you think
[56:59] Lightning round – layovers, snacks, playlists, and dream destinations

Links and Resources:

Sara’s Instagram: @flyingwithsara

Association of Flight Attendants-CWA, AFL-CIO: www.afacwa.org/

Thoughts on this episode? Text us!

✈

This episode was brought to you by StaffTraveler, the #1 non-rev app. If you travel on standby and are looking to make your journey easy and stress-free, check out the StaffTraveler app in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Visit stafftraveler.com/twoguys to learn more and sign up!

Download StaffTraveler, the #1 Non-Rev App!

✈

Have a story you want to share on our show? Have you ever found yourself on a flight and thought – What Would ‘Two Guys on a Plane’ Do? Send us your wildest or funniest airplane story and we might just share it on a future episode!

Tell Us Your Story!

✈

Want to join us on one of our upcoming group adventures? There are only a few spots left on our trips to Croatia, Egypt, and Thailand!

View Itineraries + Book Your Spot!

✈

We couldn’t do it without your support! As independent podcasters, we rely on audience support to keep our show going. Join our community on Patreon at the link below for exclusive content, early access, behind-the-scenes footage, and more! Thank you so much for being part of our crew.

Support Our Show on Patreon!

Ever wonder what really goes down on a flight crew layover? In this episode, we’re pulling back the hotel room curtain and dishing on the layover life—whether we’re out chasing the best food spots or locked in our rooms with Netflix and snacks. From wild travel delays to postcard collections, this episode is a true behind-the-scenes look at the weird, wonderful, and sometimes downright chaotic world of flight attendant downtime.

We dive into what makes or breaks a layover (spoiler: it’s not just the city), the art of slam clicking, and why our favorite layovers usually involve crispy wings, hot donuts, or a great bookstore. Whether you’re a crew member or a curious traveler, this episode gives you a hilarious and honest view of what it’s really like when the cabin door closes and the crew hits the hotel.

Episode Highlights:

[0:21] Layover life—are you a slam clicker or an explorer?
[0:53] Rich’s chaotic week flying through radar outages and unruly passengers
[3:11] Great layovers vs. great crews—what matters more?
[5:18] Slam clicking by default, but bidding for food (hello, Hat Tricks wings!)
[6:05] Rich’s dreamy brunch spot in Tampa and our mutual obsession with Oxford Exchange
[6:59] Flying just for donuts and pizza—we’ll travel for carbs
[8:59] Favorite layovers, comfy hotels, and what we really look for when we bid
[10:23] Least favorite cities and how hotel quirks can make or break a trip
[11:29] Slam clicking as self-care and why new hires need to embrace the recharge
[13:10] Hotel routines, Hot Logic meals, and checking for murderers
[15:37] Exploring vs. the gym—where we stand on post-flight movement
[16:40] Art, books, beaches, and finding joy in every destination
[17:51] Solo adventures, crew bonding, and the unexpected magic of good energy
[20:12] The postcard tradition—how Rich captures every layover memory
[22:21] First layovers, flight school nerves, and moments we’ll never forget
[23:38] Paying it forward—coffee, postcards, and taking care of each other
[24:14] Final thoughts: layovers are what you make of them—glamorous, gritty, and everything in between

Thoughts on this episode? Text us!

✈

This episode was brought to you by StaffTraveler, the #1 non-rev app. If you travel on standby and are looking to make your journey easy and stress-free, check out the StaffTraveler app in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Visit stafftraveler.com/twoguys to learn more and sign up!

Download StaffTraveler, the #1 Non-Rev App!

✈

Have a story you want to share on our show? Have you ever found yourself on a flight and thought – What Would ‘Two Guys on a Plane’ Do? Send us your wildest or funniest airplane story and we might just share it on a future episode!

Tell Us Your Story!

✈

Want to join us on one of our upcoming group adventures? There are only a few spots left on our trips to Croatia, Egypt, and Thailand!

View Itineraries + Book Your Spot!

✈

We couldn’t do it without your support! As independent podcasters, we rely on audience support to keep our show going. Join our community on Patreon at the link below for exclusive content, early access, behind-the-scenes footage, and more! Thank you so much for being part of our crew.

Support Our Show on Patreon!

Ever wondered if you should be tipping your flight attendants? In this episode, we break down the complex world of in-flight tipping and gifting. We dive into what tipping means in our industry, the fine line between appreciation and expectation, and why a genuine "thank you" can go further than a $5 bill. We also share some of our favorite (and cringiest) experiences receiving treats, tips, and thoughtful surprises in the sky. We talk all things passenger courtesy, the psychology of gifting, and how the culture of tipping affects the airline world. Plus, Rich shares a wild layover story from a pilot friend in our “What Would Two Guys Do?” segment that had Drew in tears.

Episode Highlights:

[0:00] - Should passengers be tipping flight attendants? Let's talk about it.
[1:22] - Drew's heartwarming layover story with a new hire who just gets it.
[3:25] - Rich escapes to Boston while navigating the non-rev jungle (and shares some StaffTraveler hacks).
[5:48] - We dig into tipping—why it’s complicated, appreciated, and sometimes awkward.
[10:03] - Comparing tipping vs. gifting: is one better than the other?
[12:00] - The problem with performative gifting—expecting upgrades or perks.
[14:25] - Creative and actually useful gifts that flight attendants love.
[17:19] - PSA: Be a kind passenger—sometimes, that’s more appreciated than any gift.
[19:13] - Take off your headphones and speak up! A rant about common courtesy in the cabin.
[22:54] - Story Time! A pilot’s hilarious confession about a misdirected, uh… delivery.
[26:04] - Keep your stories coming and a special thanks to our Patreon fam.

Thoughts on this episode? Text us!

✈

This episode was brought to you by StaffTraveler, the #1 non-rev app. If you travel on standby and are looking to make your journey easy and stress-free, check out the StaffTraveler app in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Visit stafftraveler.com/twoguys to learn more and sign up!

Download StaffTraveler, the #1 Non-Rev App!

✈

Have a story you want to share on our show? Have you ever found yourself on a flight and thought – What Would ‘Two Guys on a Plane’ Do? Send us your wildest or funniest airplane story and we might just share it on a future episode!

Tell Us Your Story!

✈

Want to join us on one of our upcoming group adventures? There are only a few spots left on our trips to Croatia, Egypt, and Thailand!

View Itineraries + Book Your Spot!

✈

We couldn’t do it without your support! As independent podcasters, we rely on audience support to keep our show going. Join our community on Patreon at the link below for exclusive content, early access, behind-the-scenes footage, and more! Thank you so much for being part of our crew.

Support Our Show on Patreon!

Ever wondered how we flight attendants actually plan our lives around the chaos of air travel? In this episode, we're pulling back the curtain on the mystery of our schedules. From the strategies we use (or don’t) when bidding for monthly trips, to how our contracts shape our work rules, we’re breaking it all down in a way only two seasoned crew members can. And no, we don’t just work weekdays or fly the same routes over and over again. We’re diving into why one of us crams all the hours into just a few days, while the other is constantly swapping trips for something “better.” Plus, we wrap it up with a jaw-dropping listener story.

Episode Highlights:

[0:00] Welcome aboard! Talking about schedule questions we get all the time.
[0:50] Our very different bidding strategies and why they work (or don’t).
[2:45] Drew’s high-hour strategy vs. Rich’s hunt for easy trips.
[4:24] FAA rules vs. contract differences—why every airline plays by its own rules.
[6:39] Are you a “bid right away” or “last minute” type? (Spoiler: Rich is chaos).
[10:39] The real reason Rich can’t quit flight attendant life.
[14:35] Flying 10-12 days a month sounds light, but here’s the catch.
[17:20] Canceled or delayed? The behind-the-scenes chaos you don’t see.
[20:20] Why “holiday busy” is real—but so is spring break and random weekends.
[22:17] Listener Story: The most unhinged in-flight couple we’ve ever heard of.

Thoughts on this episode? Text us!

✈

This episode was brought to you by StaffTraveler, the #1 non-rev app. If you travel on standby and are looking to make your journey easy and stress-free, check out the StaffTraveler app in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Visit stafftraveler.com/twoguys to learn more and sign up!

Download StaffTraveler, the #1 Non-Rev App!

✈

Have a story you want to share on our show? Have you ever found yourself on a flight and thought – What Would ‘Two Guys on a Plane’ Do? Send us your wildest or funniest airplane story and we might just share it on a future episode!

Tell Us Your Story!

✈

Want to join us on one of our upcoming group adventures? There are only a few spots left on our trips to Croatia, Egypt, and Thailand!

View Itineraries + Book Your Spot!

✈

We couldn’t do it without your support! As independent podcasters, we rely on audience support to keep our show going. Join our community on Patreon at the link below for exclusive content, early access, behind-the-scenes footage, and more! Thank you so much for being part of our crew.

Support Our Show on Patreon!

Hey friends! We’ve got a special one for you today – joining us in the studio is none other than our amazing friend Heather Phillips! She flew in just for this, and we couldn’t be more pumped to have her with us. Originally from Knoxville and now repping the Windy City, Heather has a wild, inspiring journey from answering a newspaper ad at 19 to spending 12+ years in the skies and now thriving as an airline recruiter.

In this episode, we talk about all things in the world of airline recruiting. Heather shares her best interview tips, what recruiters are really looking for, and how being your authentic self might just be your biggest asset. Plus, we take a fun stroll down memory lane, talking bleach-soaked dorm rooms, and our number one tip for flight attendants in training.

✈️ Timeline Summary:

[1:27] Non-rev travel hacks and the magic of StaffTraveler.
[4:22] Heather’s fearless leap into aviation – her first flight was to training.
[6:55] Transitioning from flight attendant to recruiter – how she made the jump.
[9:37] Why flight attendants wear all the hats – and why it matters.
[11:39] What recruiters really want – hint: it’s not perfection.
[15:13] Are you really being watched during your interview journey? Heather gives us the scoop!
[18:40] Do your homework – the importance of researching the airline before you apply.
[20:44] Representing your airline and aligning with its brand – the job is more than travel perks.
[22:31] Interview red flags and the surprising reason one candidate applied.
[26:27] How we met in training – pink polos, frosted tips, and flip phones.
[29:52] Dorm drama and Clorox wipes – Heather’s southern roots show up strong.
[33:16] “Calling and Cross Check” game – Heather’s lightning round travel faves.

Thoughts on this episode? Text us!

✈

This episode was brought to you by StaffTraveler, the #1 non-rev app. If you travel on standby and are looking to make your journey easy and stress-free, check out the StaffTraveler app in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Visit stafftraveler.com/twoguys to learn more and sign up!

Download StaffTraveler, the #1 Non-Rev App!

✈

Have a story you want to share on our show? Have you ever found yourself on a flight and thought – What Would ‘Two Guys on a Plane’ Do? Send us your wildest or funniest airplane story and we might just share it on a future episode!

Tell Us Your Story!

✈

Want to join us on one of our upcoming group adventures? There are only a few spots left on our trips to Croatia, Egypt, and Thailand!

View Itineraries + Book Your Spot!

✈

We couldn’t do it without your support! As independent podcasters, we rely on audience support to keep our show going. Join our community on Patreon at the link below for exclusive content, early access, behind-the-scenes footage, and more! Thank you so much for being part of our crew.

Support Our Show on Patreon!

Hey friends! In this episode, we’re diving into a topic we get asked about all. the. time. — why does it seem like so many flight attendants are gay? We’re breaking down the stereotypes, the realities, and sharing our personal journeys as a queer married couple working in aviation. From uniform policies to cultural experiences, from the freedom of anonymity to the challenges of truly being seen — we get into it all.

We’re also talking about how this industry has given us the space to be our loudest, proudest selves and how it continues to evolve. Whether you’re queer and curious about flight attendant life or you just want to understand the community better, this convo is open, honest, and full of heart (and, of course, a few laughs). Buckle up, because we’re ready for takeoff.

Episode Highlights:

[1:55] Just in case you missed it — yes, we're married, and yes, very gay.
[3:00] Why flight attendant life is so appealing to LGBTQ folks.
[5:23] Letting your guard down and finally breathing free.
[7:24] Discovering culture and queer acceptance in cities around the world.
[9:11] The hidden side of anonymity in aviation.
[11:22] The evolution of gender presentation and uniform policies.
[13:21] Why comfort in your identity equals better job performance.
[14:55] Flight Attendant Friday — celebrating authentic representation.
[16:32] Travel broadens your lens — especially for queer folks.
[18:56] Breaking the mold beyond the old-school gay flight attendant stereotype.
[20:42] Ask A Flight Attendant: “Do you just turn around and go right back?”.
[23:29] The real answer and why your mom thinks you're vacationing all day.

Thanks for flying with us! If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to rate, follow, and leave us a review. And hey — share it with a friend who could use a little sky-high inspiration. We’ll see you next time with more humor, heart, and stories from the beverage cart.

Thoughts on this episode? Text us!

✈

This episode was brought to you by StaffTraveler, the #1 non-rev app. If you travel on standby and are looking to make your journey easy and stress-free, check out the StaffTraveler app in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Visit stafftraveler.com/twoguys to learn more and sign up!

Download StaffTraveler, the #1 Non-Rev App!

✈

Have a story you want to share on our show? Have you ever found yourself on a flight and thought – What Would ‘Two Guys on a Plane’ Do? Send us your wildest or funniest airplane story and we might just share it on a future episode!

Tell Us Your Story!

✈

Want to join us on one of our upcoming group adventures? There are only a few spots left on our trips to Croatia, Egypt, and Thailand!

View Itineraries + Book Your Spot!

✈

We couldn’t do it without your support! As independent podcasters, we rely on audience support to keep our show going. Join our community on Patreon at the link below for exclusive content, early access, behind-the-scenes footage, and more! Thank you so much for being part of our crew.

Support Our Show on Patreon!

Ever wonder if you'd thrive wandering the streets of Paris solo or if you're better off swapping stories over cocktails with new travel buddies in Bali? In this episode, we’re soaring into the pros and cons of solo vs. group travel—from creepy stares at 35,000 feet to magical nights under the Eiffel Tower. We’re opening up about our own travel habits, biggest surprises, and a few hilarious (and slightly sketchy) stories from our journeys. We’ll also chat about how our flight attendant perks have shaped the way we travel, why we were originally hesitant about group trips, and what changed our minds. Plus, we share an emotional listener story that'll have you reaching for the tissues.

Want to join us on a trip to Croatia or Egypt? We're running a flash sale until midnight on Wednesday, May 28th! Use code CRGUYS100 for Croatia or EGYPTGUYS100 for Egypt and get $100 off your booking!

Book now: twoguysonaplane.com/travel

Episode Highlights:

[1:00] - Drew gets creepily stared at by a passenger—and we try to unpack the serial killer vibes.
[3:25] - Rich's magical Paris layover and surprise encounter with Two Guys on a Plane fans.
[6:20] - Our initial fear of group travel and how Bali totally changed the game.
[8:00] - Why Drew's idea of "solo travel" really just means traveling with Rich.
[10:20] - The Airbnb horror story with chain-smoking hosts and red mattresses.
[13:08] - That time we maybe kind of almost got murdered in Greece… or not?
[15:42] - What actually made our Bali group trip so magical (spoiler: it wasn’t just the food).
[18:41] - Our hybrid travel style: freedom + structure = the perfect itinerary.
[22:06] - Spicy suckling pig, sweating through dinner, and trying new foods.
[23:00] - Feeling safe and supported: why group travel opens doors for everyone.
[24:06] - Built-in friends, low stress, and why you should travel with us.
[26:43] - Listener story: CPR at 35,000 feet and a beautiful reunion in the skies.
[28:21] - Shout out to our amazing community, Patreon supporters, and what’s next.

Thoughts on this episode? Text us!

✈

This episode was brought to you by StaffTraveler, the #1 non-rev app. If you travel on standby and are looking to make your journey easy and stress-free, check out the StaffTraveler app in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Visit stafftraveler.com/twoguys to learn more and sign up!

Download StaffTraveler, the #1 Non-Rev App!

✈

Have a story you want to share on our show? Have you ever found yourself on a flight and thought – What Would ‘Two Guys on a Plane’ Do? Send us your wildest or funniest airplane story and we might just share it on a future episode!

Tell Us Your Story!

✈

Want to join us on one of our upcoming group adventures? There are only a few spots left on our trips to Croatia, Egypt, and Thailand!

View Itineraries + Book Your Spot!

✈

We couldn’t do it without your support! As independent podcasters, we rely on audience support to keep our show going. Join our community on Patreon at the link below for exclusive content, early access, behind-the-scenes footage, and more! Thank you so much for being part of our crew.

Support Our Show on Patreon!