Ask Drone U

Why the FCC Drone Ban Could Ground More Than You Think The FCC may be laying the groundwork for a drone ban that goes far beyond DJI and if you fly drones for business, this could change your entire operating model. We break down what the proposal really says, why the definition of "military grade" is so broad, and what every drone pilot needs to do before the comment window closes.The headline sounds simple, but the details are anything but. This proposed action could affect thermal imaging, LiDAR, docking stations, swarming drones, spray platforms, drone light shows, and even...

How American drones are transforming in drone industry As regulations tighten and supply chains strain, American-made drones are stepping into the spotlight, promising new levels of safety, reliability, and profitability. It is now more important than ever to position yourself to capitalize this change. In this episode, Paul and Rob unravel the truth behind the industry's rapid transformation over the last three months. They reveal why trust in Chinese drones is waning and how American manufacturers like Skydio, FreeFly are changing the game — often with limited supply and high demand. You'll discover how the NDAA impacts your ability to fly ce...

In this episode, Gabe Hanohano takes us on his inspiring journey of building a successful drone business in Hawaii. Starting with a deep-rooted passion for photography and technology, Gabe navigates the intricate world of drones, sharing the highs and lows of his entrepreneurial path. He underscores the critical role of networking in Hawaii's relationship-driven market and the importance of adapting business strategies, including rebranding for better market positioning. Gabe also delves into the power of leveraging technology, such as AI, to enhance business operations and the necessity of a strong online presence for client attraction. His story is a testament...

In this episode of Elevating Drone Life, host Rob Burdick sits down with Teej Ragsdale, the visionary co-founder and CEO of RAAD, an innovative aerial intelligence network. Teej's journey from finance and crypto to renewable energy has uniquely positioned him to tackle the challenges in the drone services market. Together, we explore the significant frictions faced by drone pilots and how RAAD is revolutionizing the industry by prioritizing fair compensation, quality control, and trust-building with pilots. Discover how RAAD is preparing for the future of drone services, including adapting to regulatory changes and embracing new technologies. Teej shares his insights...

Navigating the FCC ban on DJI: What it means to pilots In this episode of ADU, we delve into the intricate details of the recent FCC ban on DJI. This episode unpacks the multifaceted implications of the ban, which is part of a broader national security initiative aimed at addressing potential threats. We explore the underlying national security concerns that have driven this regulatory decision, emphasizing the vagueness and complexity of the regulations that have left many in the drone community seeking clarity. We also go over the emotional responses elicited by these regulatory changes, as drone pilots and manufacturers...

In this captivating episode of "Elevating Drone Life," we journey with Graeme Heinrich, a seasoned expert in the drone industry, as he shares his remarkable transition from traditional golf course management to the innovative world of drone technology. With over 23 years of experience in professional golf, Graeme offers a unique perspective on how drones have revolutionized mapping and data collection, particularly in the realm of golf course management. Graeme's story begins with his early days as a caddy, where he developed a deep understanding of the intricacies of golf. This foundation paved the way for his pioneering work in using...

Drone Security: Opportunities and Challenges Don't miss out on our exclusive Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals at Drone U Black Friday Deals page! Whether you're flying for fun or profit, now's the time to elevate your skills with our top-notch courses. Our episode today is brought to you by Drone U Black Friday Deals - available great discounts on our monthly, annual and lifetime membership and also exclusive discounts on our in-person training, available just during our Black Friday promotions this year. Hurry and sign up today !! Join us on the Ask Drone U podcast as we delve into...

How should pilots navigate the ever evolving drone industry? Don't miss out on our exclusive Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals at Drone U Black Friday Deals page! Whether you're flying for fun or profit, now's the time to elevate your skills with our top-notch courses. Our episode today is brought to you by Drone U Black Friday Deals - available great discounts on our monthly, annual and lifetime membership and also exclusive discounts on our in-person training, available just during our Black Friday promotions this year. Hurry and sign up today !! In this insightful episode of Ask Drone U...

What opportunities and drone options should pilot explore before/after DJI Ban? In this episode of Ask Drone U, Paul and Rob tackle one of the most common questions surfacing around the proposed DJI ban: Which drone should you buy before the ban takes effect — the Mavic 4T or the 4E — especially if you’re entering telecom inspections? Our episode today is brought to you by Drone U Black Friday Deals - available great discounts on our monthly, annual and lifetime membership and also exclusive discounts on our in-person training, available just during our Black Friday promotions this year. Hurry and sign...

How should pilots navigate the fast changing drone industry? In this episode of ADU, hosts Paul and Rob discuss the evolving landscape of drone programs, focusing on employment trends, measuring success, and the importance of quality inspections over quantity. They emphasize the need for effective training and development within drone programs to enhance efficiency and productivity, ultimately leading to better decision-making and revenue generation. Key Takeaways Businesses are shifting between hiring drone contractors and in-house pilots. Quality of inspections is more important than quantity. Drone program managers must articulate the value of quality inspections to their superiors. Efficiency in drone...

In this episode of Elevating Drone Life, host Paul Aitken speaks with Cameron Goldberg, a renowned FPV drone pilot known for his stunning aerial shots at Red Rocks. They discuss Cameron's journey into drone flying, the challenges of operating in various environments, and the importance of building relationships in the drone industry. Cameron shares insights on the technical aspects of flying, the legalities surrounding drone operations, and the future of drone cinematography. The conversation highlights the artistry and skill involved in FPV flying, as well as the evolving landscape of drone technology and regulations. Timestamps [00:00]  Introduction to Elevating Drone Life [00:52] C...

Discover how Skylights Tech has transformed the art of storytelling through drones, creating breathtaking aerial displays that captivate audiences worldwide. In this captivating episode of "Elevating Drone Life," we take you behind the scenes of the mesmerizing world of drone shows with the visionary team from Skylights Tech. Join host Rob Burdick as he sits down with Luis Sanchez, Clara Canino, and Israel Canino to explore their incredible journey from university friends to pioneers in the drone entertainment industry. Discover how Skylights Tech has transformed the art of storytelling through drones, creating breathtaking aerial displays that captivate audiences worldwide. From...

What should you know about the FAA Part 108 and how can it impact your drone operations? Today's podcast is brought to you by Drone U's In-Person training. We are announcing bootcamps in November and December. Sign up today before we are sold out !! This is our five-day boot camp that includes a one-day Flight Mastery + Videography Training, followed by 4 days of Desktop and Cloud Based Mapping training. In this unique training event, we cover desktop and cloud based mapping techniques. Our Desktop-Based Mapping Class is designed for drone professionals looking to gain expert-level skills in processing, analyzing, and manipulating mapping...

What should you know about the FAA Part 108 and how can it impact your drone operations? Today's podcast is brought to you by Drone U's In-Person training. We are announcing bootcamps in November and December. Sign up today before we are sold out !! This is our five-day boot camp that includes a one-day Flight Mastery + Videography Training, followed by 4 days of Desktop and Cloud Based Mapping training. In this unique training event, we cover desktop and cloud based mapping techniques. Our Desktop-Based Mapping Class is designed for drone professionals looking to gain expert-level skills in processing, analyzing, and manipulating mapping...

Discover how DroneSoccer is shaping teamwork, tech skills, and future aviators. Planning to get kids involved in Drones? What better way than to get them introduced to Drone Soccer - a fun and innovate program for kids to be involved in competitive environments that includes getting kids exposed to drones, teamwork, technical studies and overall growth in the aviation industry. In today's episode we talk to Lina Pineros from CrewConcept, the company behind the revolutionary DroneSoccer program at schools allowing kids to participate and grow in the world of drones and aviation.  In today's episode we discuss everything about DroneSoccer, w...

What should pilots know about NDAA compliance for LiDAR systems. Today's podcast is brought to you by Drone U's In-Person training. This is our five-day boot camp that includes a one-day Flight Mastery + Videography Training, followed by 4 days of Desktop and Cloud Based Mapping training. In this unique training event, we cover desktop and cloud based mapping techniques. Our Desktop-Based Mapping Class is designed for drone professionals looking to gain expert-level skills in processing, analyzing, and manipulating mapping data. This intensive course utilizes Pix4DMapper, Pix4DReact, and Pix4DMatic, providing a comprehensive hands-on experience in advanced drone mapping techniques. ...

Recreational, Commercial, VLOS, BVLOS, LAANC, Authorizations, Remote ID, Registrations. Flying recreationally vs commercially today and in 2026? Flooded with the tons of flight and drone requirements for flying commercially or recreationally? Today's podcast is brought to you by Drone U's In-Person training. This is our five-day boot camp that includes a one-day Flight Mastery + Videography Training, followed by 4 days of Desktop and Cloud Based Mapping training. In this unique training event, we cover desktop and cloud based mapping techniques. Our Desktop-Based Mapping Class is designed for drone professionals looking to gain expert-level skills in processing, analyzing, and manipulating mapping data. This...

What drones can pilots choose based on their requirements and what are some of the best drones across multiple domains. Today's podcast is brought to you by Drone U's In-Person training. This is our five-day boot camp that includes a one-day Flight Mastery + Videography Training, followed by 4 days of Desktop and Cloud Based Mapping training. In this unique training event, we cover desktop and cloud based mapping techniques. Our Desktop-Based Mapping Class is designed for drone professionals looking to gain expert-level skills in processing, analyzing, and manipulating mapping data. This intensive course utilizes Pix4DMapper, Pix4DReact, and Pix4DMatic...

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...

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 yo...

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...

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...

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...

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 ser...

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...

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...

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 susta...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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 mod...

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...

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...

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 it...

Interview with Adam Bry, comments, feedback and more on the DJI Ban. On today's episode we discuss about some of the recent feedback we received from the online community about our recent interview with Skydio's Adam Bry. We discuss certain comments received about their take on Skydio and Adam Bry and elaborate on our view in the larger fight on DJI, Chinese technology and bans in the US. We discuss blanket bans and the overall need for having comprehensive knowledge prior to making decisions that impact the industry as a whole. FY 2025 NDAA Conference Text: What Happened with the “Countering CC...

Navigating the Drone Industry's Geopolitical Crossroads: Security, Innovation, and the role of Skydio in minimizing reliance on DJI. In this episode of Ask Drone U, Skydio CEO Adam Bry discusses public perception, the challenges and geopolitics of the drone industry, from national security concerns surrounding Chinese drones to Skydio’s efforts to build a strong U.S. manufacturing presence. He explores the tensions between innovation, security risks, and the future of global drone markets. Tune in to this great episode and do not miss out on some great Cyber Monday deals !! 5-Day Free Course: Thriving Drone Real Estate Business Transform yo...