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Have new tariffs been signed and what are the implications for pilots. Today's podcast is brought to you by Drone U's Experience Training in June. Our first three Experience Training events sold out in less than a week; and it's time to take flight again! Our all-inclusive 5-day training paired with a 2-day competition will challenge you, inspire you, and prepare you. In this unique training event, limited to no more than 10 participants, you will be immersed in an experienced-based learning environment. You'll take flight daily and often, and you'll master cutting-edge drone techniques along the way. You'll learn from experienced pilots who've been where you're trying to go; and you'll build repeatable systems to scale your business. Click HERE to book your seat today !! On today's episode we discuss about the impacts of the changing tariff environment for drone pilots and what it means for regulations and options that pilots have to navigate tariffs. We discuss about the details of regulations surroundi

Want to start a drone business in 2025 and get paid to fly? This episode reveals how Keson Drayton turned a career layoff into a profitable freelance drone business—using hustle, mindset, and the “Costco effect” to win clients. From picking up a Phantom 4 to building D Flight Productions into a recognizable name across Denver, Keson shares how he went from zero bookings to full-time drone pilot, without outside funding, gear obsession, or shortcuts. Whether you're learning real estate drone photography, looking to land your first FAA Part 107 gig, or just tired of waiting for the “perfect time,” this is the roadmap you’ve been waiting for. In this episode, Keson explains:  How he started a full-time drone pilot business from scartch Why real estate drone photography is still the best entry market How to find drone jobs using Zillow, outreach, and local leads What the Costco Effect means—and how it grows your business Why learning to edit your own footage is a superpower How to handle slow mon

What should DSP know from a first responder regulations perspective. Today's podcast is brought to you by Drone U's Experience Training in June. Our first three Experience Training events sold out in less than a week; and it's time to take flight again! Our all-inclusive 5-day training paired with a 2-day competition will challenge you, inspire you, and prepare you. In this unique training event, limited to no more than 10 participants, you will be immersed in an experienced-based learning environment. You'll take flight daily and often, and you'll master cutting-edge drone techniques along the way. You'll learn from experienced pilots who've been where you're trying to go; and you'll build repeatable systems to scale your business. Click HERE to book your seat today !! On today's episode we discuss about drone operations as first responders and how DSP operations can be impacted by FAA regulations. Our question for today is from James, who would like to learn more about managing drone flights from a regu

Want to build a serious drone career in construction, VDC, or mapping? This episode explores how Brian Owens transformed construction workflows using drones and BIM models—and how you can profit from it. In this episode of Elevating Drone Life, Rob talks with Brian Owens, Field Solutions Lead at The Whites Company, about how high tech drones transform construction workflows, strengthen risk management, and elevate client communication. You'll learn how drone mapping, BIM drone integration, FPV flythroughs, and Gaussian splat models are setting a new industry standard.    From mechanical engineer to construction drone innovator, Brian shares practical insights on turning drone expertise into a full-time career. He explains: How drone mapping fits into Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) workflows Which deliverables: orthomosaics, Gaussian splats, and FPV flythroughs build client trust Why polished drone media = higher client confidence + bigger contracts How drone data supports construction site

As a pilot what are my options for building and developing systems for my drone. Today's podcast is brought to you by Drone U's Experience Training in June. Our first three Experience Training events sold out in less than a week; and it's time to take flight again! Our all-inclusive 5-day training paired with a 2-day competition will challenge you, inspire you, and prepare you. In this unique training event, limited to no more than 10 participants, you will be immersed in an experienced-based learning environment. You'll take flight daily and often, and you'll master cutting-edge drone techniques along the way. You'll learn from experienced pilots who've been where you're trying to go; and you'll build repeatable systems to scale your business. Click HERE to book your seat today !! On today's episode we discuss about how pilots can build robust drones for photogrammetry work and how pilots can develop softwares and systems for these drones. Our question for today is from Nathan who is looking for developi

Want to grow your drone business, book high-paying contracts, and get FAA-authorized for restricted airspace? This episode reveals how Jason Flakes did it—step by step. In this episode of Elevating Drone Life, Rob talks with Jason Flakes, the award-winning founder of Visual 14, about how he turned a career setback into a thriving commercial drone business. You will discover how he uses cinematic storytelling, strategic proposals, and FAA-compliant flight operations to build his six figure drone business.  From filming Amazon Prime documentaries to winning a 3-year aerial contract over a 16-mile metro line, Jason shares hard-won insights on: Pricing drone services with confidence Getting FAA authorization in restricted zones Submitting winning RFPs (and how to ask for a debrief) Capturing footage that looks like it came from a Hollywood set Turning raw content into recurring revenue Whether you’re just starting out or looking to scale, this episode is a masterclass in real-world drone success. W

Tips for pilots to approach RV parks for seeking drone business. Today's podcast is brought to you by Drone U's Experience Training in June. Our first three Experience Training events sold out in less than a week; and it's time to take flight again! Our all-inclusive 5-day training paired with a 2-day competition will challenge you, inspire you, and prepare you. In this unique training event, limited to no more than 10 participants, you will be immersed in an experienced-based learning environment. You'll take flight daily and often, and you'll master cutting-edge drone techniques along the way. You'll learn from experienced pilots who've been where you're trying to go; and you'll build repeatable systems to scale your business. Click HERE to book your seat today !! On today's episode we discuss about things drone pilots can market for RV resorts. Our question for today is from John, who finds himself travelling to different RV parks and would like to know how to market his drone services to RV parks and

Can pilots secure profitable drone jobs in rural areas? What skills are required? Today's episode is brought to you by Drone U in-person training, a unique in-person training event that is focused on developing a holistic drone pilot, where you will be hands-on learning environment. Launching 2 new in-person mapping bootcamps that covers all aspects of mapping projects training you on softwares, flight missions, data acquisitions, desktop or laptop based processing, flight mastery and much much more. Reach out our Events page to book your seat today. On today's episode we discuss about opportunities for drone pilots in rural areas and how pilots can leverage these opportunities. Our question for today is from Robert who have moved recently to a rural area and is exploring opportunities for his drone business. Thank you for the question, Robert. We discuss if rural areas provide profitable opportunities for drone pilots and delve into domains that provide ample profits to drone pilots. We detailed nuanced o

In this episode of Elevating Drone Life, we talk with Jorge Alvarez, founder of Drone Permission, about his journey from the concrete and construction industry to becoming a leader in drone services across Florida and the Caribbean. Jorge shares how he built a successful drone business by focusing on client communication, asking the right questions, and delivering high-quality work that meets the needs of construction stakeholders. He explains how drone technology is transforming the way project progress is documented—particularly on massive projects like the MSC Cruise Terminal—and why educating clients on what drones can do is essential for sustained business growth.  Jorge also opens up about how he built a referral-driven business, scaled a team, and created efficient pricing strategies that reflect both value and confidence. This conversation is packed with industry insights around mapping software, networking, collaboration, and using drones to enhance decision-making and stakeholder communication in

Welcome to Elevating Drone Life, the podcast for drone professionals !! Elevating Drone Life is a podcast for drone professionals by drone professionals. It is a podcast that takes you on a journey through the exciting and ever-evolving world of drone technology. Each episode, we'll be speaking with professionals from all walks of the drone industry, Drone U Elite Instructors and members to learn about their experiences, insights, and tips for success. We'll explore the latest trends in drone technology, dive into real-world applications, and uncover the unique challenges and opportunities facing today's drone pilots. On our show today, we talk to Keith Stancil from NashvilleDrone.co on his journey, drone life and thoughts on becoming a successful drone business owner. In this episode, Keith from NashvilleDrone.Co shares his fascinating journey from the music industry to the world of drones. Keith discusses his early experiences with music, starting out by working with big names like the Red Hot Chili Peppe

Should we emphasize getting the latest drone for business or bootstrap? Today's episode is brought to you by Drone U in-person training, a unique in-person training event that is focused on developing a holistic drone pilot, where you will be hands-on learning environment. Launching 2 new in-person mapping bootcamps that covers all aspects of mapping projects training you on softwares, flight missions, data acquisitions, desktop or laptop based processing, flight mastery and much much more. Reach out to us to book your seat today. View our recent review of the Matrice 4 Enterprise and learn why we believe the M4E lives up to the hype. and Our latest NEWS show on all the hottest news and updates in the drone industry. On today's episode we discuss about timelines in products for drone business and developing the right mindset for ensuring success in your drone business. Our question for now is from Nick who would like to know how to manage the ever evolving field in drone tech, software updates and upgrad

Whats a good drone for construction project timelapse? Today's episode is brought to you by Drone U Experience training, a unique training event that is focused on developing a holistic drone pilot, where you will be immersed in an experienced-based learning environment. You'll take flight daily and often, and you'll master cutting-edge drone techniques along the way. Learn from experienced pilots to get the most out of your drone. Also, build repeatable systems to scale your business. Learn more about Drone U Experience Event and Reach out to us to book your seat today. View our recent review of the Matrice 4 Enterprise and learn why we believe the M4E lives up to the hype. Our latest NEWS show on all the hottest news and updates in the drone industry. On today's episode we discuss about drones and softwares to be used for successful modelling and acquisition of data in construction. Thank you Jack for the question. We discuss the nuances of flying and how drones and software functioning in the construc

Is it advantageous to use Blockchain technology in the mapping industry? or are we complicating matters? Today's episode is brought to you by Drone U Experience training, a unique training event that is focused on developing a holistic drone pilot, where you will be immersed in an experienced-based learning environment. You'll take flight daily and often, and you'll master cutting-edge drone techniques along the way. Learn from experienced pilots to get the most out of your drone. Also, build repeatable systems to scale your business. Learn more about Drone U Experience Event and Reach out to us to book your seat today. On today's episode we discuss about the potential of using blockchain technology in the mapping world and the benefits that drone businesses and pilots can leverage using the blockchain technology as they go about developing maps on the blockchain. Thank you Parker for the question. We discuss all about blockchain tech and how we can combine maps and mapping data into blockchain technology

How to deal with drone insurance issues? Who are the best players in the drone industry for drone insurance? On today's episode we discuss all about drone insurance including covering topics of insurance in the event of theft out of vehicle, crash, job site theft and if you should you put on home insurance Today's question is brought to you by Drone U Mapping courses which is getting updated to add new and relevant content covering software, techniques and deliverable. Our question for today's episode is from Aaron from WI who would like to know all about drone insurance and what are the best options and ways to be insured today. Thank you Aaron for the question. We discuss into the specifics of understanding drone insurance and managing claims and if pilots are better off obtaining drone insurance from aviation companies as against traditional companies. We explain how pilots can qualify better for drone insurance and why companies such as Skywatch are better positioned to manage drone insurance. We also

How can business owners project 3 year revenues and maintain a steady flow of revenue? On today's episode we discuss ways to project finances and revenues for future and ways by which individuals and business owners can set up systems to effectively calculate future cash flows. We also go over how business owners can generate a steady income. Our question for today's episode is from our student, Jimmy, who is securing a SBA loan and wants to calculate the next 3 year cashflows. Jimmy is also getting started on his drone business and wants to know how to generate a steady income in a drone business. Thank you Jimmy for the question. We delve into understanding how business can plan their forward looking projections through rational means and assumptions. We emphasize how business owners can plan and calculate revenues from services and goods while also understanding how to calculate and identify expenses through ChatGPT and AI. Rob explains how business owners can develop tools to provide rationale for ser

What options do pilots have to save their flight data? On today's episode we answer Kevin's question on how we can save and manage flight data on your drone in the event of a theft of your drone/drone system. Join Paul and Rob as we show a quick live demo of how you can save your drone data on your drone/SD card and ways to import flight data. Tune in to this quick educational podcast on how you can ensure the safety of your drone data in event of theft or data corruption on your device. 5-Day Free Course: Thriving Drone Real Estate Business Transform your drone operations into a thriving real estate-focused business. Learn client management, pricing for profit, and creating high-value deliverables. Grow My Drone Business Get your questions answered: https://thedroneu.com/. If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is to subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us real quick? While you’re there, leave us a 5-star review, if you’re inclined to do so. Thanks! https:

Can 2D or 3D models make dirt work in construction more efficient? What techniques exist and how can businesses go about efficiently conducting earth work. Happy New Year from Drone U to you and your family. Today’s episode is also brought to you by Colorado Drone Chargers, specialists who offer drone charging systems that charge multiple batteries and a flight controller at the same time, offering the fastest, and most efficient drone charging solutions on the market. On today's episode we discuss about mapping specifically how 2D or 3D models can help business involved in construction and how these models can efficiently show how materials / earth work can accurately measured. Every construction project involves a significant amount of dirt work and understanding how much earth is required for various construction needs in a project. Our question for today is from Marco Pena who would like to know how drone 2D/3D models can help businesses involved in dirt work. We discuss about the multiple techniques

Using AI for developing creative content for business. Happy New Year from Drone U to you and your family. On today's episode we discuss how we can use AI for creative endeavours. When is it ok and when it isn't and how we can use AI for multiple use cases. In today's AI world where AI is able to accomplish a multitude of tasks from video and audio to text based projects, we discuss how AI can be leveraged in the development of content for drone industry specifically. We go over tools like suno.com and sora.com that can be used to create audio and video and talk about commercial use, monetization and discuss copyright ownership. Tune in to this insightful and educational podcast on how you can use AI for your creative content requirements and learn about the many use cases of AI. 5-Day Free Course: Thriving Drone Real Estate Business Transform your drone operations into a thriving real estate-focused business. Learn client management, pricing for profit, and creating high-value deliverables. Grow My D

Landscape of US Drone Industry: DJI Ban, equipment, tech and future of the industry. On today's episode we talk with Bobby Sakaki, UAV expert and CEO of UAS Nexus. We discuss with Bobby on the current state of the UAV industry and his insights on critical topics such as DJI Ban, US politics on the industry, latest tech and impact of supply chain and geopolitics in drone industry. Learn all about the topics and events in the industry that can impact drone pilots in today's uncertain environment. 5-Day Free Course: Thriving Drone Real Estate Business Transform your drone operations into a thriving real estate-focused business. Learn client management, pricing for profit, and creating high-value deliverables. Grow My Drone Business Get your questions answered: https://thedroneu.com/. If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is to subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us real quick? While you’re there, leave us a 5-star review, if you’re inclined to do so. Thanks! 

Whats all with recent news of drone swarm? Are there people who are aware of these drones and their flight missions? Today’s episode is also brought to you by Colorado Drone Chargers, specialists who offer drone charging systems that charge multiple batteries and a flight controller at the same time, offering the fastest, and most efficient drone charging solutions on the market. On today's episode we discuss the very recent news event of drone swarm recently observed in NJ and discuss the various theories surrounding the incident. On Sunday, New Jersey was under a 'siege' of drone swarm with its mission objectives unknown and incidents of it following a US coast guard ship. Adding to the mystery was the origin of the drones, the intention of flight and the overall perception and theories floating around the drone swarm. We discuss about the timeline of events and what is known in the public domain along with discussing the theories currently in the industry, the government and the general public. We review