The Unmanned Podcast

The Unmanned Podcast | 50+ Years of Aviation Experience, FAA Part 108, BVLOS & the Future of DronesWhat does the future of drones look like—and how close are we to transforming aviation forever?In this special episode of The Unmanned Podcast, we bring together over 50 years of combined aviation experience to discuss the biggest changes shaping the drone industry today. From the long-awaited FAA Part 108 rule and Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations to autonomy, workforce development, and the evolution of aviation, this conversation explores where the industry has been—and where it's headed next.Join our panel featuring Scott Liston, Nick Cross, and John Clark as they share personal stories, lessons learned, and insights into how drones are expanding opportunities across public safety, infrastructure inspection, logistics, education, and beyond.In this episode, we discuss:The latest updates on FAA Part 108 and BVLOS operationsHow drone regulations could reshape commercial aviationLessons from decades of traditional aviation experienceMilitary drone operations and the evolution of unmanned aircraftBuilding the next generation of drone pilots and aviation professionalsWhy safety, continuous learning, and community matter in aviationThe growing role of autonomy and UTM (Uncrewed Traffic Management)Career pathways into the drone and aviation industriesThis episode also marks the final appearance of our longtime host, who reflects on the journey of The Unmanned Podcast, the incredible guests we've featured, and the bright future ahead for both the podcast and the unmanned aviation industry.Whether you're a drone pilot, aviation professional, public safety operator, student, or simply passionate about emerging technology, this episode offers valuable insights into one of the fastest-growing sectors in aviation.👍 If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to Like, Subscribe, and turn on notifications so you never miss future conversations about drones, aviation, robotics, and emerging technology.#Drones #DronePodcast #FAA #Part108 #BVLOS #UnmannedPodcast #Aviation #DronePilot #CommercialDrones #UAS #DroneTechnology #FutureOfFlight #UTM #PublicSafety #Robotics

This episode represents our Season One Finale with USI Alum and Prime Air Flight Monitor Damarius Maxwell!

This episode is loaded with real-world insights for anyone exploring a drone career path, the growing UAS industry, or how Part 107 certification can unlock major aviation opportunities.

What we cover:

• Transitioning from the military to a civilian drone career
• Why safety is crucial in both manned and unmanned operations
• How USI prepared Damarius for success in the UAS field
• What it takes to get hired by Amazon Prime Air
• The future of drone delivery and UAS tech
• Why the FAA Part 107 license is essential for career growth

If you're interested in drone jobs, aviation pathways, Amazon Prime Air, or how to break into the drone industry—this episode is a must-watch.

Thank you to our followers and fans for a great first season! We're excited to bring you another season of The Unmanned Podcast in early 2026 after a brief hiatus over the holidays.

In this episode of The Unmanned Podcast, we sit down with Adrian O’Dell, Owner/Operator of ARO Aerial Inc. and graduate of the USI drone program. Adrian shares how his Air Force experience shaped his approach to drone operations—and why drones are far more than just “flying cameras.”We dive into the real skills, tools, and planning required to operate drones professionally and safely.Whether you're a drone instructor, professional pilot, or just passionate about the future of unmanned systems, this episode breaks down the real-world mindset behind safe and skillful drone operations.🎧 Listen now and get ready for Part Two of the Season Finale.

In this episode of The Unmanned Podcast, we go behind the scenes of the Oregon UAS Accelerator with its President and Executive Director, Joseph Wyno.

Discover how this innovative program is launching drone startups, accelerating national defense applications, and even tackling unexpected challenges like prison contraband.

We explore:

• What makes Oregon a powerhouse for UAS testing and workforce innovation

• How microclimates support advanced drone development

• The 12-Week Innovator Challenge and who it’s for

• The human side of drone entrepreneurship, including military-to-civilian transition

• Technical Readiness Levels and real-world commercialization

• Counter-UAS solutions and ZING Drone innovations

Whether you're a drone tech enthusiast, startup founder, educator, or public safety professional, this episode offers fresh insights and real-world takeaways.

👉 Apply for the Oregon UAS Accelerator here: https://www.oregonuas.org/apply

Can drones help us save all of the space trash???

In this episode of The Unmanned Podcast, Peter Kalaitzidis, Senior Robotics Program Manager at the New York Power Authority, goes through all of the various use cases he and his team use for drones and the future of these jobs.

We also discuss:

• The road from the Air Force to utilities
• The future of automated flights
• No More Pilots and the goal of A.I.
• How every mistake becomes a learning experience
• The many benefits of STEM in schools
• How teaching anyone to use a drone can invent variety in their uses

Whether you’re a drone professional, industry leader, educator, or tech enthusiast, this episode offers valuable insights into the real-world ROI of drone operations.

How can drones save companies millions of dollars?

In this episode of The Unmanned Podcast, Scott Lashmit, UAS Aviation Manager at Cyber Hawk, reveals how his team used drones to detect a critical issue early — saving $10 million in potential losses.With over 500,000 inspections across 40 countries, Cyber Hawk is a global leader in industrial drone inspections, transforming the way utilities and energy providers manage infrastructure safety and maintenance. Scott shares how proactive drone inspections not only cut costs but also improve safety, efficiency, and decision-making.We also discuss:

• The evolution of drone inspection technology
• Training, compliance, and FAA regulations
• How Cyber Hawk grew to over 250 employees worldwide

• The future of automation and skilled drone pilots

Whether you’re a drone professional, industry leader, educator, or tech enthusiast, this episode offers valuable insights into the real-world ROI of drone operations.

Drones are transforming how utilities protect communities and critical infrastructure. From wildfire prevention to safer inspections, drone technology is reshaping safety standards across the industry.In this episode of The Unmanned Podcast, we explore:

• How drones help detect risks before they spark wildfires
• The role of aerial inspections in preventing costly disasters
• How drones improve safety, efficiency, and reliability for utilities
• Why drones are becoming an essential tool for modern infrastructure management

Whether you’re in utilities, technology, or simply curious about how drones are making our world safer, this video breaks down the innovations changing the game.

How are drones shaping the future of education and careers? In this episode of The Unmanned Podcast, we sit down with Tonie Smith, educator and drone program leader, to explore how drones are opening new career pathways, transforming classrooms, and supporting real-world applications like the Drone as First Responder (DFR) program with the Chula Vista Police Department.

Tonie shares her journey into drones, her passion for teaching, and how she’s helping prepare the next generation of drone pilots and innovators.

Whether you’re curious about starting a career in drones, interested in aviation education, or exploring how unmanned systems are changing industries, this conversation is packed with insights and inspiration.

Enjoy the show!

In this episode of The Unmanned Podcast, we explore how unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) are reshaping the future of law enforcement and public safety — from rapid response and search-and-rescue missions to accident reconstruction and tactical operations.Former State Trooper and aviation pioneer Ron Leach shares his journey from piloting helicopters to launching one of the first comprehensive drone programs for public safety. He discusses the challenges, breakthroughs, and lessons learned while integrating drone technology into police work — and how it’s helping save time, resources, and even lives.Enjoy the show!

In this episode of The Unmanned Podcast, host Matt Hernandez sits down with Ray Adams, President of Airde Elevated Thinking, to explore the innovation and impact behind the Cape-Atlantic UAS Test Range in Cape May County, New Jersey.With a 60-by-60-mile test area reaching up to 7,000 feet, the Cape-Atlantic UAS Test Range is designed for advanced drone operations, offering a unique space for large UAS platforms to operate safely alongside manned air traffic. Ray shares insights into how this range is enabling safe drone integration into the national airspace — and why it's a critical asset for the future of unmanned aviation.

Topics Covered:

• The origin and purpose of the Cape Atlantic UAS Test Range
• How the range supports large drone testing and BBLOS training
• Managing airspace integration with manned aviation systems
• Risk management strategies and stakeholder engagement
• FAA Part 108 and its implications for drone operators
• Emerging partnerships for counter-UAS and enterprise training

Whether you're a drone operator, program manager, or aviation stakeholder, this conversation offers a front-row look at how Cape May is becoming a launchpad for innovation in unmanned systems.