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] Cameron Goldberg: The Red Rocks Pilot

[02:08] The Power of FPV Drones

[05:31] Cameron's Journey into Drone Flying

[09:40] Navigating Regulations and Waivers

[12:23] Building a Successful Drone Business

[17:27] The Importance of Relationships in Business

[20:40] Future Trends in Drone Filming

[23:30] Mastering Indoor and Outdoor Drone Flying

[30:23] The Impact of Regulations on Drone Technology

Want to Make Money Flying Drones?

DroneU gives you the blueprint to start and grow a real drone business:

FAA Part 107 prep

40+ courses on flight skills, real estate, mapping, and business

Pricing guides, client acquisition, and weekly coaching

Supportive community of top-tier drone pros

Start here https://www.thedroneu.com

Know someone ready to take the leap? Share this episode with them !!

Stuck between a safe job and chasing your drone dream?

Download our FREE Drone Pilot Starter Kit  

Includes: FAA checklist, pricing template, and plug-and-play proposal to help you land your first client with confidence.

 https://learn.thedroneu.com/bundles/drone-pilot-starter-kit 

Stay Connected

Hit Like if you learned something new / Subscribe and turn on notifications / Share this with a pilot or creative stuck at a crossroads

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 their humble beginnings in Mexico to executing large-scale shows for global brands like Coca-Cola and Six Flags, the team shares their insights on the technical and creative processes that make each show a unique spectacle.

Learn about the challenges they face, such as navigating international regulations and overcoming technical hurdles, and how they continue to innovate with new technologies like pyrotechnics and interactive experiences. The episode also delves into the importance of teamwork and the role of creativity in pushing the boundaries of what's possible with drone shows.

Whether you're a drone enthusiast, a tech aficionado, or simply curious about this cutting-edge form of entertainment, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration. Tune in to hear how Skylights Tech is not just elevating drones, but elevating unforgettable moments that leave a lasting impact on audiences around the globe.

Timestamps

[00:00] Introduction to Skylights Tech and Drone Shows

[10:00] The Journey of Skylights Tech

[20:01] The Logistics of Drone Shows

[29:57] Designing a Drone Show

[40:02] Technical Aspects of Drone Operations

[50:00] Challenges and Safety Measures

[59:48] Clientele and Market Opportunities

[01:09:57] Future of Skylights Tech and Innovations

Want to Make Money Flying Drones?

DroneU gives you the blueprint to start and grow a real drone business:

FAA Part 107 prep

40+ courses on flight skills, real estate, mapping, and business

Pricing guides, client acquisition, and weekly coaching

Supportive community of top-tier drone pros

Start here https://www.thedroneu.com

Know someone ready to take the leap? Share this episode with them !!

Stuck between a safe job and chasing your drone dream?

Download our FREE Drone Pilot Starter Kit  

Includes: FAA checklist, pricing template, and plug-and-play proposal to help you land your first client with confidence.

 https://learn.thedroneu.com/bundles/drone-pilot-starter-kit 

Stay Connected

Hit Like if you learned something new / Subscribe and turn on notifications / Share this with a pilot or creative stuck at a crossroads

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 data. This intensive course utilizes Pix4DMapper, Pix4DReact, and Pix4DMatic, providing a comprehensive hands-on experience in advanced drone mapping techniques.

Cloud-Based Mapping Class is designed to give you a complete, hands-on experience with modern drone mapping techniques using Site Scan by Esri. Over the course of 1.5 intensive days, you'll learn how to create high-quality 2D maps, orthomosaics, and geo-referenced models while mastering the essential principles of data acquisition and processing

We have classes in November and December, Click HERE to book your seat today !!

In this episode, we break down what the DJI ban means for drone pilots and the key considerations to keep in mind before it takes effect. We tackle today’s big question—how to work around the ban—and explore alternatives like the Freefly Astro and Sitescan compared to DroneDeploy. You’ll hear insights on costs, profitability, and what the math really looks like when running your drone business. Finally, we share options for those who continue with DJI and wrap up with our top suggestions to prepare before the ban is in place.

Tune in to stay informed and ahead in the world of drones!

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://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.

Click here for access to Skywatch for all your drone insurance purposes !

Become a Drone U Member. Access to over 30 courses, great resources, and our incredible community.

Follow Us

Site – https://thedroneu.com/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/droneuADU 1382: Build my own drone to do photogrammetry work?

Instagram – https://instagram.com/thedroneu/

Twitter – https://twitter.com/thedroneu

YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/c/droneu

Timestamps:

[1:24] - A summary of what the ban means for Drone pilots

[4:21] - what should pilots be considering before ban?

[7:15] - today's question on how to work around the DJI ban

[9:10] - Freefly Astro is a good replacement and cost involved

[16:10] - Is sitescan a viable option and comparison to DroneDeploy

[19:33] - The math behind cost and money making using your drone

[24:23] - What are the options for drone pilots who choose DJI

[31:00] - Summary of our suggestion for pilots before ban comes into place.

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 data. This intensive course utilizes Pix4DMapper, Pix4DReact, and Pix4DMatic, providing a comprehensive hands-on experience in advanced drone mapping techniques.

Cloud-Based Mapping Class is designed to give you a complete, hands-on experience with modern drone mapping techniques using Site Scan by Esri. Over the course of 1.5 intensive days, you'll learn how to create high-quality 2D maps, orthomosaics, and geo-referenced models while mastering the essential principles of data acquisition and processing

We have classes in November and December, Click HERE to book your seat today !!

In today's episode, we delve into the transformative impact of the FAA's Part 108 regulations on drone operations. Discover how these new rules are reshaping the landscape for drone enthusiasts and professionals alike, enhancing safety and innovation in the skies. We explore the intricate world of Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) regulations and the hurdles they present to drone operators. From navigating complex legal frameworks to understanding the technological requirements, we uncover the challenges that come with pushing the boundaries of drone capabilities. We tackle the pressing concerns surrounding the future of drone delivery and the broader implications for industry innovation. As technology races ahead, we examine the hurdles that could stall progress, from regulatory challenges to public perception.

Join us as we explore the opportunities and challenges that come with navigating this evolving regulatory environment. Tune in to stay informed and ahead in the world of drones!

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://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.

Click here for access to Skywatch for all your drone insurance purposes !

Become a Drone U Member. Access to over 30 courses, great resources, and our incredible community.

Follow Us

Site – https://thedroneu.com/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/droneuADU 1382: Build my own drone to do photogrammetry work?

Instagram – https://instagram.com/thedroneu/

Twitter – https://twitter.com/thedroneu

YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/c/droneu

Timestamps:

[01:10] Introduction to Part 108 and Its Importance

[03:11] Understanding Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) Operations

[06:01] The Impact of Part 108 on Small and Medium Operators

[08:44] Navigating the Complexities of BVLOS Regulations

[12:01] The Role of Comments in Shaping Regulations

[14:45] The Future of Drone Operations and Safety Concerns

[14:43] What does don't operate dangerously mean for recreational pilots

[18:01] The Dichotomy of Pilot Responsibility and Corporate Accountability

[20:49] The Need for Simplified Regulations

[24:12] Community Reactions and Industry Perspectives

[27:01] Final Thoughts and Call to Action

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, what it means for schools and kids, how schools can get involed and what are the steps and opportunities available for kids to start their journey in their drone world. We discuss with Lina everything about how DroneSoccer has impacted the lives of many children across the world. We talk about Xavier, a young school going kid, who got introduced to DroneSoccer, got exposed to aviation and is now pursuing a career in the lucrative mapping domain in drones. We also go over the new DroneSoccer Kit and what all is required to get programs started at schools.

Whether you're learning more about DroneSoccer or are looking to get a Drone program started at your school or if you are looking to get your kid exposed to Drones and the aviation industry, Tune in to this interesting and information packed episode today !!

Timestamps

[02:41] Learn more about Lina from CrewConcept - her background and work

[06:20] Learn about DroneSoccer and how students play DroneSoccer

[10:28] The thought process behind getting children introduced to DroneSoccer

[15:33] Learn about Xavier and his journey in DroneSoccer and how it led to his all-round growth

[22:02] Learn about Drone in the Box Kit

[24:40] What is required to develop a DroneSoccer program at schools and fundings available

[27:21] Courses for kids to develop and further their skills

[28:15] How can schools and communities get involved with Drone Soccer

[34:05] Final thoughts on DroneSoccer and how kids greatly benefit from the program

[35:05] At what ages can kids get started in the drone industry and how progression is planned

[39:40] Contact CrewConcept and learn more

[40:47] Learn about the DroneSoccer Kit Giveaway

Want to Make Money Flying Drones?

DroneU gives you the blueprint to start and grow a real drone business:

FAA Part 107 prep

40+ courses on flight skills, real estate, mapping, and business

Pricing guides, client acquisition, and weekly coaching

Supportive community of top-tier drone pros

Start here https://www.thedroneu.com

Know someone ready to take the leap? Share this episode with them !!

Stuck between a safe job and chasing your drone dream?

Download our FREE Drone Pilot Starter Kit  

Includes: FAA checklist, pricing template, and plug-and-play proposal to help you land your first client with confidence.

 https://learn.thedroneu.com/bundles/drone-pilot-starter-kit 

Stay Connected

Hit Like if you learned something new / Subscribe and turn on notifications / Share this with a pilot or creative stuck at a crossroads

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.

Cloud-Based Mapping Class is designed to give you a complete, hands-on experience with modern drone mapping techniques using Site Scan by Esri. Over the course of 1.5 intensive days, you'll learn how to create high-quality 2D maps, orthomosaics, and geo-referenced models while mastering the essential principles of data acquisition and processing

We have classes in August and September and last few slots avalable, Click HERE to book your seat today !!

Not many pilots speak about the sensor side of drone flying. Our question for today, from Jimmy, is all about knowing LiDAR and its NDAA compliance requirements. Thank you Jimmy for the question, there is a lot of discussions surrounding approvals from NDAA compliant devices. We went through the rabbit hole for understanding compliance and regulations surrounding sensor use and discuss the regulations surrounding the LiDAR tech and system compliance and what it means for contracting federal projects.

Tune in today on this short information packed episode !!

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://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.

Click here for access to Skywatch for all your drone insurance purposes !

Become a Drone U Member. Access to over 30 courses, great resources, and our incredible community.

Follow Us

Site – https://thedroneu.com/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/droneuADU 1382: Build my own drone to do photogrammetry work?

Instagram – https://instagram.com/thedroneu/

Twitter – https://twitter.com/thedroneu

YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/c/droneu

Timestamps:

[02:15] Learn more about Drone U mapping class and bootcamps

[04:55] Today's question on LiDAR and NDAA compliance

[07:11] What the regulations speak about the use of LiDAR tech

[14:22] Cost implications of using American and non-American LiDAR tech

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 intensive course utilizes Pix4DMapper, Pix4DReact, and Pix4DMatic, providing a comprehensive hands-on experience in advanced drone mapping techniques.

Cloud-Based Mapping Class is designed to give you a complete, hands-on experience with modern drone mapping techniques using Site Scan by Esri. Over the course of 1.5 intensive days, you'll learn how to create high-quality 2D maps, orthomosaics, and geo-referenced models while mastering the essential principles of data acquisition and processing

We have classes in August and September and last few slots avalable, Click HERE to book your seat today !!

Flying recreationally vs commercially today and in 2026? Flooded with the tons of flight and drone requirements for flying commercially or recreationally?

In today's podcast we lay out all the rules of flying a drone recreationally or commercially and discuss how drone pilots can be aware of all these aspects. We detail out the various common concerns flagged by pilots and how pilots can navigate through all of this. We want pilots to be responsible to laws and in today's episode we go over how pilots can stay compliant. We also cover all the upcoming new rules in 2026 and how pilots can be prepared and ready for all these upcoming rules.

Learn how as a pilot you can handle multiple flight scenarios and stay legally compliant.Tune in today on this short information packed episode !!

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://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.

Click here for access to Skywatch for all your drone insurance purposes !

Become a Drone U Member. Access to over 30 courses, great resources, and our incredible community.

Follow Us

Site – https://thedroneu.com/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/droneuADU 1382: Build my own drone to do photogrammetry work?

Instagram – https://instagram.com/thedroneu/

Twitter – https://twitter.com/thedroneu

YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/c/droneu

Timestamps:

[01:13] What does its mean to fly recreationally?

[02:19] Best location to fly recreationally

[03:35] Awareness of yielding to manned aircraft

[04:45] Getting approval to fly recreationally?

[07:28] Managing terrain changes and flights over buildings and terrains

[11:37] Drone registration a must?

[14:43] What does don't operate dangerously mean for recreational pilots

[17:59] What is all covered under 'Flying under influence' policy

[19:00] Summary of recreational flying

[21:57] New rules in 2026 - BVLOS, ARC, Certifications and more

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, providing a comprehensive hands-on experience in advanced drone mapping techniques.

Cloud-Based Mapping Class is designed to give you a complete, hands-on experience with modern drone mapping techniques using Site Scan by Esri. Over the course of 1.5 intensive days, you'll learn how to create high-quality 2D maps, orthomosaics, and geo-referenced models while mastering the essential principles of data acquisition and processing

We have classes in July, August and September, Click HERE to book your seat today !!

On today's episode we discuss all about the best drones that pilots need to know to ensure they utilize the best drones for their business. We discuss specifics of the drone requirements pricing and features of American vs Chinese drones notably drones such as DJI, FreeFly Astro and other American offerings in the market. We also discuss best drones for specific use cases and share our list of the best drones for each use cases and why we believe the drones are best bang for the buck.

Tune in today on this short information packed episode !!

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://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.

Click here for access to Skywatch for all your drone insurance purposes !

Become a Drone U Member. Access to over 30 courses, great resources, and our incredible community.

Follow Us

Site – https://thedroneu.com/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/droneuADU 1382: Build my own drone to do photogrammetry work?

Instagram – https://instagram.com/thedroneu/

Twitter – https://twitter.com/thedroneu

YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/c/droneu

Timestamps:

[2:09] - Learn all about Rob and Paul's recent travel and visit to Drone U events

[6:39] - Right questions to ask to determine the best drone for your purpose

[7:39] - FreeFlyAstro drones and their characteristics and which model is best for your requirement

[11:59] - Best drones for mapping dams and bridges and into things

[21:14] - Learn about the opportunities for American drones in the US

[22:29] - Fixed wing drones and their advantages for data acquisition

[27:12] - Comparison of FreeFly drones and DJI drones

[30:42] - Drones for Confined space

[37:00] - Drones that carry LiDAR

[41:35] - New drones and their offerings for pilots and their limitations

[45:52] - The one DJI drone we are excited about - Mini5 Pro

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 surrounding tariffs and if it impacts existing drones and specifics of the soon to be signed tariffs. We look into the timing to procure drones with the ups and downs of tariff conversations with nations esp China and if future deals will impact pricing of drones. We also discuss some upcoming DJI drones and if it makes sense to purchase new drones vs purchasing an used drone.

Tune in today on this short information packed episode !!

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://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.

Click here for access to Skywatch for all your drone insurance purposes !

Become a Drone U Member. Access to over 30 courses, great resources, and our incredible community.

Follow Us

Site – https://thedroneu.com/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/droneuADU 1382: Build my own drone to do photogrammetry work?

Instagram – https://instagram.com/thedroneu/

Twitter – https://twitter.com/thedroneu

YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/c/droneu

Timestamps:

[00:55] What should you do now considering the changes in tariffs

[04:08] Drones already owned by pilots - Do tariffs impact them

[06:34] Today's question on tariffs and impacts to flying drones

[07:43] Section 1709 and why it matters to pilots

[16:33] Why it is not a good time to purchase drones

[23:01] Is the Mavic 4 Pro a good purchase? And how does it compare with Inspire

[27:05] A summary of our response to today's question

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 months and stay in the game

The mindset required to build a brand and keep moving forward

? Want to Make Money Flying Drones?

DroneU gives you the blueprint to start and grow a real drone business:

?? FAA Part 107 prep

?? 40+ courses on flight skills, real estate, mapping, and business

?? Pricing guides, client acquisition, and weekly coaching

?? Supportive community of top-tier drone pros

? Start here ? https://www.thedroneu.com

? Know someone ready to take the leap? Share this episode with them—they need to hear Keson’s story.

Timestamps

00:00 – Meet Keson Drayton: engineer turned drone entrepreneur

07:00 – First drone (Phantom 4) + FAA airspace mistake ? early learning moment

16:00 – Laid off from corporate ? launched full-time drone career

25:00 – Launching D Flight Productions + getting FAA Part 107 certified                                        35:00 – How to get real estate drone clients using Zillow and direct outreach

43:00 – The “Costco Effect” for building brand awareness

50:00 – Mental health, motivation & staying focused as a solo drone pilot

55:00 – Daily growth habits: client follow-up, skill sharpening, FAA compliance

01:01:00 – Where to connect with Keson + booking drone jobs in Colorado

?Resources & Links

Connect with Keson:

? Instagram – @dflightproductions

? TikTok – @DPKey (Drone Pilot Key)

? LinkedIn – Keson Drayton

? Book Drone Services – 720-477-0513

Stuck between a safe job and chasing your drone dream?

? Download our FREE Drone Pilot Starter Kit  

Includes: FAA checklist, pricing template, and plug-and-play proposal to help you land your first client with confidence.

 ??https://learn.thedroneu.com/bundles/drone-pilot-starter-kit 

? Keep Watching

? More drone pilot success stories:

Jason Flakes on storytelling and government gigs ? [insert link]

Stay Connected

? Hit Like if you learned something new

? Subscribe and turn on notifications

? Share this with a pilot or creative stuck at a crossroads