Fame Host (https://fame.so) Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time https://podcasts.fame.so/dronecast-rethinking-public-safety-one-drone-at-a-time https://feeds.fame.so/dronecast-rethinking-public-safety-one-drone-at-a-time Welcome to Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time, a podcast by DroneSense. We explore real-world applications of drones in emergency response, offering a close examination of evolving trends in drone technology and its impact on public safety. Copyrights © 2026 All Rights Reserved by DroneSense en Thu, 04 Apr 2024 10:24:02 +0000 Wed, 08 Apr 2026 11:06:28 +0000 https://content.fameapp.so/uploads/5zqrpmwq/c74d2980-f5d7-11ee-8742-61662b9ae68e/c74d2b80-f5d7-11ee-a826-91563d7b22f7.png Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time https://podcasts.fame.so/dronecast-rethinking-public-safety-one-drone-at-a-time Welcome to Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time, a podcast by DroneSense. We explore real-world applications of drones in emergency response, offering a close examination of evolving trends in drone technology and its impact on public safety. DroneSense Welcome to Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time, a podcast by DroneSense. We explore real-world applications of drones in emergency response, offering a close examination of evolving trends in drone technology and its impact on public safety. No No episodic DroneSense Welcome to Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time, a podcast by DroneSense. We explore real-world applications of drones in emergency response, offering a close examination of evolving trends in drone technology and its impact on public safety. Welcome to Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time, a podcast by DroneSense. We explore real-world applications of drones in emergency response, offering a close examination of evolving trends in drone technology and its impact on public safety. Joe Kearns, Dronecast, Dronesense, Public safety drones, drone technology, UAV in law enforcement, drone operations, emergency response drones, drone innovation, drones in public safety, situational awareness, drone pilot training, search and rescue drone Martin Joyce team@fame.so No No No Swarms and Sovereignty: Protecting the Smart City https://podcasts.fame.so/e/xny73wvn-david-lewin-part2 Swarms and Sovereignty: Protecting the Smart City 55 No No l14r5k61 In Part 2 of this deep dive, David Lewin of Echodyne returns to discuss the high-stakes evolution of airspace security with Joe Kearns. From the chilling reality of cartel-led drone deliveries to the technical marvels of "fine-tooth comb" radar, this episode explores the legislation and technology required to secure the smart cities of tomorrow. The honeymoon phase of drone technology is over, and the industry is now facing the "Pandora’s box" of unauthorized aerial activity. David Lewin explores the escalating threats facing correctional facilities and critical infrastructure, where sophisticated cartels are leveraging drone delivery for nefarious purposes. He highlights the critical gap between current legislation and the rapid pace of innovation, particularly the recent executive orders aimed at restoring American airspace sovereignty.

David breaks down the "ground truth" of cognitive radar, explaining how machine learning differentiates between a bird, a plane, and a non-compliant drone. Through the lens of "The 25% Impact Rule," he demonstrates how aerial intelligence de-escalates calls and saves lives. Looking forward, David paints a picture of a "Jetsons" future where drones as a service (DaaS) and autonomous "speeders" are made possible by the very detection systems protecting us today. 


What You'll Learn:

  • The Cartel Threat: How sophisticated groups are using drones for contraband delivery in rural and correctional settings.
  • Fine-Tooth Radar: Why pinpoint accuracy is essential for separating individual targets within a drone swarm.
  • The Sovereignty Shift: Key insights into the new executive orders focusing on "Unleashing American Drone Dominance."
  • Compliance vs. Detection: Why relying on Remote ID alone is a gamble and how radar serves as the ultimate baseline for safety.
  • The Future of DaaS: How shared infrastructure like Uber will eventually make drone services affordable for every city agency. 


Helpful Links:

Episode Highlights:

  • [00:00:00] The Rec Yard Drop: David describes radar footage of a drone dropping contraband into a prison yard in the dead of night.

  • [00:04:47] Cognitive Radar: A look at how machine learning helps radar differentiate between a flock of geese and a target of interest.

  • [00:10:40] Legislative Breakthroughs: Discussion on the recent inclusion of prisons as critical infrastructure for flight restrictions.

  • [00:30:10] Defeating the Swarm: How narrow-beam radar prevents 20 drones from appearing as a single "giant blob" on the screen.

  • [00:41:00] The Jetsons Reality: David’s vision for the next decade of personal aerial transportation and "Star Wars" style speeders.

Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Previous Guests include: Matt Rowland, Jason Burnside

Check out our 3 most downloaded episodes:
]]> Tue, 07 Apr 2026 11:00:00 +0000 DroneSense DroneSense 2786 In Part 2 of this deep dive, David Lewin of Echodyne returns to discuss the high-stakes evolution of airspace security with Joe Kearns. From the chilling reality of cartel-led drone deliveries to the technical marvels of "fine-tooth comb" radar, this episode explores the legislation and technology required to secure the smart cities of tomorrow. In Part 2 of this deep dive, David Lewin of Echodyne returns to discuss the high-stakes evolution of airspace security with Joe Kearns. From the chilling reality of cartel-led drone deliveries to the technical marvels of "fine-tooth comb" radar, this episode explores the legislation and technology required to secure the smart cities of tomorrow. No No The Radar Revolution: Securing the Third Dimension https://podcasts.fame.so/e/x8vljr08-david-lewin-echodyne The Radar Revolution: Securing the Third Dimension 54 No No 70yp2l91 In Part 1 of this conversation, David Lewin of Echodyne joins Joe Kearns to discuss the critical intersection of drone technology and airspace security. As traditional security focuses on "hardening the fence," David explains why the industry must now "look up" to protect critical infrastructure from emerging aerial threats. This episode explores how radar and drone detection serve as the essential foundation for the future of "drones for good". Security has long been defined by what happens on the ground—fences, cameras, and physical barriers. But as David Lewin points out, a multi-million dollar investment in ground security can be negated by a single drone zipping over the perimeter. This shift in vulnerability is driving a massive change in how utilities, water systems, and public safety agencies view their responsibilities.

David shares his journey from early robotics to reshaping security standards for the water sector, eventually finding his way to the front lines of radar innovation. He argues that drone detection isn't just about stopping "bad" drones; it is the fundamental enabler for the "good" ones. By establishing situational awareness, agencies can safely scale Drone as First Responder (DFR) programs and conduct complex missions.

Through real-world stories—ranging from preventing a police altercation with a "train enthusiast" to the 25% of DFR calls that are cleared before an officer arrives—David illustrates that aerial intelligence is the bedrock of modern public safety.


What You'll Learn:

  • The Critical Gap: Why millions spent on physical hardening are at risk without airspace awareness.
  • The 25% Impact Rule: How DFR programs are clearing one out of every four calls, keeping officers available for high-priority emergencies.
  • Detection as an Enabler: Why you can’t have a "drones for good" program without a foundation of drone detection.
  • De-escalation from Above: How aerial footage protects both citizens and law enforcement during high-stakes calls.
  • The Multi-Mission Movement: Why the next generation of security tools must be interoperable and multi-use.


Helpful Links:

Episode Highlights:

  • [00:03:30] Hardening the Fence is Not Enough: David discusses how drones bypass traditional security investments at power plants and water facilities.

  • [00:11:30] The Pizza Shop Call: A lighthearted example of how a drone quickly identified an "unconscious" person as someone simply enjoying lunch.

  • [00:12:40] Preventing Tragedy: A look at how drones provide the "body cam of the sky" to prevent accidental shootings of good Samaritans.

  • [00:16:30] The Foundation of Safety: Why knowing who is supposed to be in the air allows the national airspace to remain free and accessible.

  • [00:26:00] Radar on the Move: How mounting radar systems directly onto drones is replacing the pilot's view for high-altitude missions.


Episode Resources:

Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Previous Guests include: Matt Rowland, Jason Burnside

Check out our 3 most downloaded episodes:
]]> Tue, 24 Mar 2026 11:00:00 +0000 DroneSense DroneSense 2114 In Part 1 of this conversation, David Lewin of Echodyne joins Joe Kearns to discuss the critical intersection of drone technology and airspace security. As traditional security focuses on "hardening the fence," David explains why the industry must now "look up" to protect critical infrastructure from emerging aerial threats. This episode explores how radar and drone detection serve as the essential foundation for the future of "drones for good". In Part 1 of this conversation, David Lewin of Echodyne joins Joe Kearns to discuss the critical intersection of drone technology and airspace security. As traditional security focuses on "hardening the fence," David explains why the industry must now "look up" to protect critical infrastructure from emerging aerial threats. This episode explores how radar and drone detection serve as the essential foundation for the future of "drones for good". No No Hurricane Response, De-escalation & NDAA: The Future of Public Safety Drones with DJI's Wayne Baker https://podcasts.fame.so/e/08jyl45n-wayne-baker-dji2 Hurricane Response, De-escalation & NDAA: The Future of Public Safety Drones with DJI's Wayne Baker 53 No No 41pqr790 In Part 2 of this episode, the conversation shifts from early proof-of-concept moments to the broader ecosystem that now surrounds public safety drone programs. Joe Kearns shares powerful examples from recent disaster response operations, including a hurricane response in Asheville where drones were used not only to locate trapped victims but also to deliver food, water, and medicine to people cut off from rescue teams. Beyond the technology itself, the discussion explores the training systems, standards, and leadership required to scale drone programs responsibly. As drones become more embedded in emergency response, the conversation is no longer about whether they belong in public safety, but how agencies prepare the next generation of operators to use them effectively. [This episode was recorded on June 27, 2025. Some references may reflect information available at that time.]

Innovation in emergency response rarely happens in controlled environments.

More often, it emerges during disasters where traditional methods are no longer enough.

Chief Wayne Baker shares a powerful example from hurricane response efforts in Asheville, North Carolina. Massive flooding left entire areas inaccessible, trapping victims who could not be reached by ground crews. Drones were immediately deployed to locate survivors in areas rescuers physically could not reach.

But the response didn’t stop at search and rescue.

In one remarkable moment, farmers brought in heavy-lift agricultural drones and adapted them on the spot. Using modified baskets attached to the drones, they delivered food, water, and medications to stranded victims waiting for help. Smaller drones first identified the victims and determined what supplies were needed. Larger drones then carried the aid directly to them.

It was an improvised solution in the middle of a disaster, but it demonstrated something profound: drones are no longer just eyes in the sky. They are becoming active tools for delivering assistance when roads, bridges, and traditional logistics fail.

As drone programs expand, however, technology alone is not enough.

Wayne explains how early drone programs quickly ran into a new challenge: training. Many first responders had little aviation or technical background, and agencies needed a structured way to prepare pilots for real-world operations.

Drawing from his background as a fire service training officer, Wayne helped develop early drone training frameworks that combined aviation knowledge, hands-on flight skills, and operational decision-making. These programs eventually evolved into regional standards used by public safety UAS response teams and agencies across the country.

The conversation highlights a crucial reality for the future of public safety drones: success depends not only on hardware, but on the people operating it.

The agencies that will benefit most from drone technology are the ones investing in training, leadership, and operational readiness today.


What You'll Learn:

  • How drones were used to locate and support victims during hurricane response operations
  • How heavy-lift drones delivered food, water, and medicine to stranded survivors
  • Why disaster zones often drive the most important technological innovation
  • How public safety agencies began developing structured drone training programs
  • Why motivation and leadership are just as important as technical skills when building drone teams


Helpful Links:

Episode Highlights:

  • [04:38 – 05:28] Drones in Hurricane Response
    Joe describes how drones were deployed during a hurricane disaster in Asheville, North Carolina to locate trapped victims in flooded areas that rescuers could not reach by ground.

  • [05:28 – 06:20] Delivering Food and Medicine by Drone
    Farmers adapted heavy-lift agricultural drones to carry baskets of food, water, and medication to stranded victims, demonstrating how drones can deliver aid when roads are inaccessible.

  • [08:41 – 09:40] Building the First Training Standards
    Joe explains how early drone programs developed structured training systems to ensure first responders could safely and effectively operate UAS technology.

Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Previous Guests include: Matt Rowland, Jason Burnside

Check out our 3 most downloaded episodes:
]]> Tue, 10 Mar 2026 11:00:00 +0000 DroneSense DroneSense 2724 In Part 2 of this episode, the conversation shifts from early proof-of-concept moments to the broader ecosystem that now surrounds public safety drone programs. Joe Kearns shares powerful examples from recent disaster response operations, including a hurricane response in Asheville where drones were used not only to locate trapped victims but also to deliver food, water, and medicine to people cut off from rescue teams. Beyond the technology itself, the discussion explores the training systems, standards, and leadership required to scale drone programs responsibly. As drones become more embedded in emergency response, the conversation is no longer about whether they belong in public safety, but how agencies prepare the next generation of operators to use them effectively. In Part 2 of this episode, the conversation shifts from early proof-of-concept moments to the broader ecosystem that now surrounds public safety drone programs. Joe Kearns shares powerful examples from recent disaster response operations, including a hurricane response in Asheville where drones were used not only to locate trapped victims but also to deliver food, water, and medicine to people cut off from rescue teams. Beyond the technology itself, the discussion explores the training systems, standards, and leadership required to scale drone programs responsibly. As drones become more embedded in emergency response, the conversation is no longer about whether they belong in public safety, but how agencies prepare the next generation of operators to use them effectively. No No From Wildfires to Water Rescues: The Birth of Public Safety Drones with Chief Wayne Baker https://podcasts.fame.so/e/58z72wjn-wayne-baker-dji From Wildfires to Water Rescues: The Birth of Public Safety Drones with Chief Wayne Baker 52 No No 81znp3v1 In Part 1 of this episode, Chief Wayne Baker walks through the early incidents that defined the role of drones in public safety. This is not a conversation about equipment specs or flight times. It is about real calls. A rare flood that turned a creek into a river. A wildfire that concealed a second advancing head. Moments where visibility meant the difference between reaction and prevention. Chief Baker shares how those experiences shifted the mindset inside agencies. What began as curiosity around drones became a recognition that aerial intelligence fundamentally changes command decisions. The question is no longer whether drones are useful. It is how agencies operate without them. Every major operational shift in public safety can be traced back to a call that forces perspective.

For Chief Wayne Baker, one of those calls came during a rare flood event. What was normally a quiet creek had become a dangerous river. Rescue boats were deployed. Crews searched visually along the waterline. Conditions were chaotic, and visibility was limited.

When the drone went up, everything changed.

The aircraft located victims positioned in a tree that rescuers could not see from the water. The drone guided boats directly to the location. Crews later reviewed the footage to confirm positioning before going back in. Fortunately, the individuals had self-extricated, but the outcome could have been very different. That moment demonstrated something powerful. Aerial overwatch was not supplemental. It was decisive.

Later, during a wildfire incident, another defining moment occurred. From the ground, the fire appeared to be progressing in a predictable direction. Once the drone was launched, Chief Baker saw something no one else could. The fire had wrapped in a U-shape around their position, creating a second head running parallel to the original.

Three homes were directly threatened.

Because units were still incoming, he was able to redirect resources immediately. Without that aerial view, those homes likely would have been lost. There is also the possibility that someone could have been inside.

These were not theoretical benefits. They were operational realities.

In this conversation, Chief Baker reflects on how incidents like these permanently shifted the internal dialogue within agencies. The early conversations were filled with questions. Why do we need a drone? Is this necessary? Is this worth the investment?

After water rescues and hidden fire heads, the tone changed.

Now, the question is simple. Why don’t you have one?

Part 1 of this episode captures the early inflection point of public safety drone programs. It is about experience, not hype. It is about what happens when technology intersects with responsibility and command-level decision-making.


What You'll Learn:

  • How aerial overwatch directly supported a flood rescue that ground crews could not visually manage
  • Why wildfire strategy changes when you can see the entire fire pattern in real time
  • How drones compress the time between uncertainty and decision
  • What shifted inside public safety agencies as real-world results replaced skepticism
  • Why drone programs are now viewed as infrastructure, not experimentation


Helpful Links:

Episode Highlights:

  • [08:03 – 08:50] The First Water Rescue
    Chief Baker describes how a drone located victims in a tree during a rare flooding event when boats could not visually identify them. The aircraft guided responders directly to the location, marking one of the earliest clear validations of drones in emergency response.

  • [44:44 – 45:26] The Hidden Fire Head
    A wildfire wrapped into a U-shaped formation, creating a secondary advancing head that was invisible from the ground. The drone revealed the threat to three homes, allowing incoming units to be redirected in time.

  • [45:26 – 46:09] From “Why Drones?” to “Where’s My Drone?”
    Chief Baker reflects on how repeated operational successes shifted agency culture from questioning the need for drones to expecting them on scene.

Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Previous Guests include: Matt Rowland, Jason Burnside

Check out our 3 most downloaded episodes:
]]> Tue, 24 Feb 2026 12:00:00 +0000 DroneSense DroneSense 2584 In Part 1 of this episode, Chief Wayne Baker walks through the early incidents that defined the role of drones in public safety. This is not a conversation about equipment specs or flight times. It is about real calls. A rare flood that turned a creek into a river. A wildfire that concealed a second advancing head. Moments where visibility meant the difference between reaction and prevention. Chief Baker shares how those experiences shifted the mindset inside agencies. What began as curiosity around drones became a recognition that aerial intelligence fundamentally changes command decisions. The question is no longer whether drones are useful. It is how agencies operate without them. In Part 1 of this episode, Chief Wayne Baker walks through the early incidents that defined the role of drones in public safety. This is not a conversation about equipment specs or flight times. It is about real calls. A rare flood that turned a creek into a river. A wildfire that concealed a second advancing head. Moments where visibility meant the difference between reaction and prevention. Chief Baker shares how those experiences shifted the mindset inside agencies. What began as curiosity around drones became a recognition that aerial intelligence fundamentally changes command decisions. The question is no longer whether drones are useful. It is how agencies operate without them. No No DFR for Fire: How San Bernardino County is Replacing Million-Dollar Trucks with Drones https://podcasts.fame.so/e/4n9m9k2n-jeff-alexy-sbcfd DFR for Fire: How San Bernardino County is Replacing Million-Dollar Trucks with Drones 51 No No v07rlmv1 In this episode, Jeff Alexy, robotics program manager and chief drone pilot for the San Bernardino County Fire Department, explains how drones are fundamentally changing fire response, search and rescue, and situational awareness. From resolving homeless cooking fires without deploying million‑dollar fire apparatus to locating lost hikers at night using thermal imaging to working with the FAA on a first‑of‑its‑kind 24/7 aerial surveillance platform, Jeff outlines what modern public safety response looks like when drones are treated as core infrastructure. [This episode was recorded on May 20, 2025. Some references may reflect information available at that time.] [This episode was recorded on May 20, 2025. Some references may reflect information available at that time.]

Public safety agencies often treat drones as supplemental tools, useful but optional. Jeff Alexy challenges that mindset.

Drawing from real incidents in San Bernardino County, Jeff explains how drones are now being used as true first responders. In one case, a drone was dispatched instead of a fire engine to a “fire type unknown,” identifying a simple cooking fire and resolving the situation remotely, saving time, money, and critical resources. In another, thermal drones located injured hikers in under a minute when helicopters were unavailable, proving unmanned systems can outperform traditional air assets in time‑critical scenarios.

Jeff also shares his work with the FAA to deploy a 3,000‑pound, 84‑foot wingspan drone capable of flying 24/7, 365 days a year over San Bernardino County. Designed for sustained aerial situational awareness, this program represents a major shift in how large jurisdictions monitor fires, accidents, and emerging threats at scale.

This conversation offers a practical, field‑tested look at how drones reduce risk to firefighters, preserve taxpayer resources, and expand what’s operationally possible in modern emergency response.


What You'll Learn:

  • How drones can replace or defer million‑dollar fire apparatus deployments
  • Why thermal drones outperform helicopters in certain search and rescue scenarios
  • How “fire type unknown” calls are draining resources—and how drones solve it
  • What sustained aerial situational awareness actually looks like in practice
  • Why working with the FAA—not around it—is key to scaling public safety drone programs


Helpful Links:


Episode Highlights:

  • 14:33 – 15:19] How Drones Replace Million‑Dollar Fire Trucks
    Jeff explains how a drone resolved a homeless cooking fire without deploying a fire engine, preserving resources for higher‑priority emergencies.

  • [21:55 – 22:42] Finding Lost Hikers With Thermal Drones
    Jeff recounts a nighttime rescue where thermal imaging located injured hikers within minutes when helicopters were unavailable.

  • [42:34 – 43:22] First in the Nation: 24/7 County‑Wide Drone Surveillance
    Jeff details his work with the FAA to operate a 3,000‑pound unmanned aircraft for continuous aerial situational awareness.

Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Previous Guests include: Matt Rowland, Jason Burnside

Check out our 3 most downloaded episodes:
]]> Tue, 10 Feb 2026 12:00:00 +0000 DroneSense DroneSense 2944 In this episode, Jeff Alexy, robotics program manager and chief drone pilot for the San Bernardino County Fire Department, explains how drones are fundamentally changing fire response, search and rescue, and situational awareness. From resolving homeless cooking fires without deploying million‑dollar fire apparatus to locating lost hikers at night using thermal imaging to working with the FAA on a first‑of‑its‑kind 24/7 aerial surveillance platform, Jeff outlines what modern public safety response looks like when drones are treated as core infrastructure. [This episode was recorded on May 20, 2025. Some references may reflect information available at that time.] In this episode, Jeff Alexy, robotics program manager and chief drone pilot for the San Bernardino County Fire Department, explains how drones are fundamentally changing fire response, search and rescue, and situational awareness. From resolving homeless cooking fires without deploying million‑dollar fire apparatus to locating lost hikers at night using thermal imaging to working with the FAA on a first‑of‑its‑kind 24/7 aerial surveillance platform, Jeff outlines what modern public safety response looks like when drones are treated as core infrastructure. [This episode was recorded on May 20, 2025. Some references may reflect information available at that time.] No No True Drone Autonomy vs. Remote Operations: What Public Safety Needs to Know https://podcasts.fame.so/e/pnllk1mn-curtis-lary-hex True Drone Autonomy vs. Remote Operations: What Public Safety Needs to Know 50 No No x0l69m70 In this episode, Curt Lary breaks down the difference between true drone autonomy and remotely operated systems in public safety environments. He explains why battery swapping, automated pre-flight inspections, and uncompromising reliability are essential for Drone-as-First-Responder (DFR) programs, especially when responding to 911 calls where uptime and readiness directly impact outcomes. As Drone-as-First-Responder (DFR) programs expand, many agencies believe they are deploying autonomous systems when most operations still rely on remote pilots and manual readiness checks. In this episode, Curt Lary clarifies the difference between true autonomy and remote operations with automation and why that distinction matters in time-critical public safety environments.

Curt examines the infrastructure decisions that define real-world performance, including battery swapping versus charging docks, the necessity of automated pre-flight inspection, and the hidden complexity introduced by scaling multiple drone stations. He also explains why reliability, not innovation optics, is the primary metric that determines whether a DFR program succeeds during a 911 response.

This conversation equips public safety leaders, program managers, and policymakers with a grounded framework for evaluating autonomy claims and building drone programs designed for continuous availability, regulatory alignment, and long-term scalability.


What You'll Learn:

  • The difference between true drone autonomy and remote operations labeled as autonomous
  • Why battery swapping dramatically improves uptime and reduces system complexity
  • How automated pre-flight inspections enable zero-human-intervention missions
  • Why small readiness gaps create major risks in 911 response environments
  • How infrastructure choices impact cost, reliability, and scalability


Helpful Links:


Episode Highlights:

  • [31:54 – 32:15] The New Standard for True Drone Autonomy 
    Curt explains why automated pre-flight inspection is a prerequisite for autonomy. He outlines how machine-learning-based aircraft health checks must meet or exceed the safety standards of on-site operators to satisfy both operational and regulatory requirements.

  • [33:31 – 34:09] Why Battery Swapping Beats Charging Docks for DFR 
    Curt breaks down how battery swapping enables a single aircraft to maintain higher uptime than multiple charging-based stations. He explains why attempting to match that availability through redundancy increases cost, complexity, and failure risk.

  • [43:20 – 43:55] Reliability Is Non-Negotiable in 911 Response
    Curt details why public safety operations cannot tolerate partial readiness. He highlights how variables as small as battery charge thresholds directly affect flight time and mission success when seconds matter.

Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Previous Guests include: Matt Rowland, Jason Burnside

Check out our 3 most downloaded episodes:
]]> Tue, 27 Jan 2026 12:00:00 +0000 DroneSense DroneSense 3098 In this episode, Curt Lary breaks down the difference between true drone autonomy and remotely operated systems in public safety environments. He explains why battery swapping, automated pre-flight inspections, and uncompromising reliability are essential for Drone-as-First-Responder (DFR) programs, especially when responding to 911 calls where uptime and readiness directly impact outcomes. In this episode, Curt Lary breaks down the difference between true drone autonomy and remotely operated systems in public safety environments. He explains why battery swapping, automated pre-flight inspections, and uncompromising reliability are essential for Drone-as-First-Responder (DFR) programs, especially when responding to 911 calls where uptime and readiness directly impact outcomes. No No Building the Future - CSU Drone Center's Vision and Innovation https://podcasts.fame.so/e/m84l9y28-building-the-future-csu-drone-center-s-vision-and-innovation Building the Future - CSU Drone Center's Vision and Innovation 49 No No x16rmn51 In Part 2 of this DroneCast conversation, we continue our discussion with Christopher Robertson, diving deeper into the realities of building and sustaining public safety drone programs. From chasing grant funding and operating cutting-edge aircraft like the Dragonfish, to addressing public perception, regulatory hurdles, and the rise of Drones as First Responders (DFR), Chris offers a candid, behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to move UAS programs forward. This episode explores not just technology—but trust, funding, leadership, and the future of drone integration in public safety. In Part 2 of DroneCast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time, we continue our conversation with Christopher Robertson, Director of the CSU Drone Center, focusing on the real-world challenges of sustaining and scaling public safety drone programs. The discussion goes beyond technology, offering a candid look at funding, leadership, and long-term program development.

Chris breaks down how modern UAS programs are funded through a mix of grants, education initiatives, cost-recovery services, and industry partnerships. He explains how these strategies support hands-on training, STEM education, and access to advanced aircraft like the Autel Dragonfish—giving students and first responders rare exposure to long-endurance ISR platforms that increasingly rival traditional government systems in both capability and cost.

The episode also explores emerging technologies such as Drones as First Responders (DFR), drone-in-a-box systems, CAD integration, and autonomous dispatch. Drawing on his background in law enforcement and 911 dispatch, Chris explains how launching drones directly from dispatch centers could dramatically improve response times and officer safety, while addressing public concerns through transparency and proactive community engagement.

Rounding out the conversation, Chris shares his vision for the future of the CSU Drone Center, including investment in American-made aircraft, regulatory progress at the FAA, and plans for a purpose-built airfield facility. He also offers advice for aspiring drone professionals, emphasizing that Part 107 is only the starting point—and that long-term success comes from deep system knowledge, continuous learning, and curiosity.


What You'll Learn:

  • How public safety drone programs are funded through grants, education, and services
  • Why hands-on access to aircraft like the Dragonfish is a game-changer
  • What Drones as First Responders (DFR) really mean for dispatch and response times
  • How public perception impacts drone adoption—and how agencies can manage it
  • Why transparency matters more than fear when introducing drones to communities
  • The growing role of American-made drones in government-funded research
  • How FAA processes are improving—and where challenges still exist
  • What it takes to build a long-term, sustainable drone career
  • Why being a “drone nerd” matters more than just passing Part 107


Helpful Links:

Episode Highlights:

  • [02:54] Hands-On with the Dragonfish
     Chris explains why access to long-endurance ISR aircraft like the Dragonfish is rare—and how civilian platforms are closing the gap with military-grade systems.

  • [04:28] Emerging Technologies That Matter
     From eVTOLs to autonomous dispatch-launched drones, Chris shares what excites him most about the next wave of UAS innovation.

  • [07:14] American-Made Drones & Research Reality
     Why government-funded research is accelerating the push toward U.S.-manufactured aircraft—and what that means for the industry.

  • [10:03] The True Cost of Drone Programs
     Chris breaks down why drones aren’t “toys” and how cost misunderstandings limit adoption, especially in small agencies.

  • [13:23] Public Perception vs. Reality
     Why fears of surveillance are often overstated—and how transparency and community engagement change the narrative.

  • [17:00] FAA Progress & Regulatory Wins
     A real-world example of approvals dropping from 44 days to just 5—and why that matters for public safety operations.

  • [19:02] The 5-Year Vision for the CSU Drone Center
     A look at the future: a purpose-built airfield facility designed for collaboration, training, and next-gen drone research.

  • [24:23] Advice for the Next Generation of Drone Pilots
     Why Part 107 is only the beginning—and how deep system knowledge separates average pilots from true professionals.

  • [28:33] Video Games, Running, and Better Pilots
     How gaming, muscle memory, and mental clarity contribute to better drone operators.


Episode Resources:

Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Previous Guests include: Matt Rowland, Jason Burnside

Check out our 3 most downloaded episodes:
]]> Tue, 13 Jan 2026 12:00:00 +0000 DroneSense DroneSense 1897 In Part 2 of this DroneCast conversation, we continue our discussion with Christopher Robertson, diving deeper into the realities of building and sustaining public safety drone programs. From chasing grant funding and operating cutting-edge aircraft like the Dragonfish, to addressing public perception, regulatory hurdles, and the rise of Drones as First Responders (DFR), Chris offers a candid, behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to move UAS programs forward. This episode explores not just technology—but trust, funding, leadership, and the future of drone integration in public safety. In Part 2 of this DroneCast conversation, we continue our discussion with Christopher Robertson, diving deeper into the realities of building and sustaining public safety drone programs. From chasing grant funding and operating cutting-edge aircraft like the Dragonfish, to addressing public perception, regulatory hurdles, and the rise of Drones as First Responders (DFR), Chris offers a candid, behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to move UAS programs forward. This episode explores not just technology—but trust, funding, leadership, and the future of drone integration in public safety. No No From Officer to Drone Innovator: Chris Robertson’s Journey in Public Safety https://podcasts.fame.so/e/lnqwpq6n-chris-robertson-csu From Officer to Drone Innovator: Chris Robertson’s Journey in Public Safety 48 No No 81nv8yq1 In this compelling 2-part episode of DroneCast, host Joe Kearns III sits down with Christopher Robertson to explore how drones have transformed public safety operations—from law enforcement to high-risk search and rescue. Drawing from real-world deployments, Chris shares how drones have been used as tactical distractions during SWAT apprehensions, critical intelligence tools during cliff rescues, and why hands-on training is essential as drones become embedded in shared airspace. This episode offers a candid look at how experience, innovation, and aviation discipline intersect to make drone programs safer and more effective. In this 2-part episode of DroneCast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time, host Joe Kearns III speaks with Christopher Robertson, a public safety aviation professional whose career spans law enforcement operations, traditional manned aviation, and unmanned aerial systems. Drawing from this unique background, Chris shares how he has bridged the discipline of conventional aviation with modern UAS applications to transform tactical decision-making in public safety missions—especially in environments where terrain, visibility, and risk limit traditional approaches.

For Part 1 Chris provides firsthand accounts of how drones have reshaped operations in the field, including a SWAT mission where a drone’s noise and visibility were deliberately used as a distraction, allowing officers to safely apprehend a suspect in dense, wooded terrain. He also recounts a high-angle rescue on Grey Rock, where drones delivered critical situational awareness before responders committed to hazardous rope systems over a 300-foot drop.

The conversation further explores training and certification challenges within the drone industry. As a traditional pilot, Chris highlights the stark contrast between manned aviation certification standards and Part 107 drone licensing, raising important questions about skill validation, safety, and preparedness as drones increasingly operate in shared airspace. Throughout the episode, he emphasizes that drones are not replacements for first responders, but force multipliers—tools that reduce uncertainty, improve planning, and ultimately protect lives. This episode is essential listening for law enforcement leaders, search-and-rescue teams, aviation professionals, and agencies building or scaling public safety drone programs.

Stay tuned for Part 2!

What You'll Learn:

  • How drones can be used as tactical distractions during law enforcement operations
  • Why UAS are critical tools in high-angle and remote rescue missions
  • How drones improve situational awareness before responders commit to risk
  • The limitations of written-only drone certification and why hands-on training matters
  • Key differences between manned aviation standards and Part 107 licensing
  • How drones act as force multipliers—not replacements—in public safety
  • Why experience-driven training is essential for safe drone integration


Helpful Links:


Episode Highlights:

  • [17:19] The Certification Gap in Drone Aviation
    Chris explains why Part 107 certification relies solely on a written test and how this differs from manned aviation, where pilots must demonstrate real-world skills. He discusses why hands-on evaluation is critical as drones increasingly operate in shared airspace.

  • [19:44] Using Drones as Tactical Distractions
    A SWAT operation in wooded terrain leads to a creative use of drone noise and visibility—redirecting a suspect’s attention and allowing officers to move in safely and undetected.

  • [22:34] Drones in High-Angle Rescue Operations
    Chris recounts a cliff rescue on Grey Rock involving a 300-foot drop, where drones provided essential intelligence to plan rope systems and safely extract the stranded individual.


Episode Resources:

Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Previous Guests include: Matt Rowland, Jason Burnside

Check out our 3 most downloaded episodes:
]]> Tue, 30 Dec 2025 12:00:00 +0000 DroneSense DroneSense 2279 In this compelling 2-part episode of DroneCast, host Joe Kearns III sits down with Christopher Robertson to explore how drones have transformed public safety operations—from law enforcement to high-risk search and rescue. Drawing from real-world deployments, Chris shares how drones have been used as tactical distractions during SWAT apprehensions, critical intelligence tools during cliff rescues, and why hands-on training is essential as drones become embedded in shared airspace. This episode offers a candid look at how experience, innovation, and aviation discipline intersect to make drone programs safer and more effective. In this compelling 2-part episode of DroneCast, host Joe Kearns III sits down with Christopher Robertson to explore how drones have transformed public safety operations—from law enforcement to high-risk search and rescue. Drawing from real-world deployments, Chris shares how drones have been used as tactical distractions during SWAT apprehensions, critical intelligence tools during cliff rescues, and why hands-on training is essential as drones become embedded in shared airspace. This episode offers a candid look at how experience, innovation, and aviation discipline intersect to make drone programs safer and more effective. No No The Future of First Response: Why 75% of Lives Could Be Saved with Drone Technology https://podcasts.fame.so/e/rnklp978-michael-hill-ua The Future of First Response: Why 75% of Lives Could Be Saved with Drone Technology 47 No No 70wjlx61 In this eye-opening episode of DroneCast, host Joe Kearns sits down with Michael Hill, a trailblazer in drone technology and public safety, to discuss the transformative impact drones are having on emergency response. From his early days with a toy Batman drone to becoming a certified UAV pilot in three countries, Michael offers invaluable insights into the integration of drones in search and rescue operations, the obstacles facing public safety departments, and the future of unmanned aerial systems. Learn how emerging technologies like AI and autonomous flight are revolutionizing emergency response and hear practical advice for departments aiming to establish their own drone programs. This episode is a must-listen for first responders, drone enthusiasts, and public safety professionals looking to understand the powerful role drones are playing in saving lives and reshaping emergency services. In this captivating episode of DroneCast, host Joe Kearns III speaks with Michael Hill, a drone technology expert with more than two decades of experience in public safety. They dive into the evolution of drone technology, from search and rescue missions to emergency medical response, while discussing the current challenges and future opportunities in the field. Michael, who is a certified UAV pilot in three countries, shares how drones are improving the speed and effectiveness of emergency responses, as well as the role of AI and autonomous systems in advancing drone capabilities. The episode also touches on practical strategies for departments looking to start or grow their drone programs, including overcoming training and funding barriers. Michael highlights the importance of standardized training, public trust, and transparent communication to ensure the successful integration of drones into emergency services. The conversation also looks ahead to future innovations, including medical deliveries and expanded uses for drones in public safety.

Michael Hill is a pioneering figure in the drone and public safety landscape. With experience ranging from his work at Microsoft to leadership roles in search and rescue and drone integration, Michael has trained and certified hundreds of remote pilots and advised on cutting-edge applications like drone medical deliveries. His company, Uncrude Aerospace, continues to push innovation while supporting first responders through education, advocacy, and operational guidance. His broad expertise and passion for the field make him a trusted voice in drone technology.

This episode is packed with valuable insights for agencies and individuals interested in launching or scaling drone operations. Whether you're navigating limited budgets, seeking to build public trust, or exploring new use cases, this conversation offers a roadmap for using unmanned aerial systems to improve emergency response and save lives.


What You'll Learn:

  • How drones are transforming emergency response, enhancing situational awareness and reducing response times
  • Why education, transparency, and community engagement are essential for effective drone program implementation
  • The critical role of AI and autonomous systems in enhancing drone capabilities for public safety operations
  • How smaller departments can make the most of drone technology despite budget constraints
  • The importance of standardized training and certification to ensure safe and effective drone operations
  • How to foster public trust and combat misinformation surrounding drones in emergency services
  • The future of drones in emergency medical services, including the potential for medical deliveries and patient monitoring
  • The significance of U.S.-based innovation in drone manufacturing for supporting first responders


Helpful Links:


Episode Highlights:

  • 11:30] Lifesaving Drone Applications in Emergency Response
    Michael Hill shares his experience working with a Norwegian company that used drones to deliver defibrillators, achieving up to 80% survival rates when reaching patients within minutes. The system included two-way communication allowing dispatchers to guide people through using the defibrillator, demonstrating how drones can provide critical medical support. This innovation addresses the challenge of rapid response times in medical emergencies, especially in hard-to-reach areas. The technology allows immediate eyes on the situation while medical teams are en route, with the drone's ability to deliver life-saving equipment providing crucial early intervention. For emergency responders, this capability transforms traditional response methods by combining speed, accuracy, and direct assistance.

  • [31:36] Building Public Trust Through Transparency
    During the COVID-19 pandemic, Michael's team used drones at the Texas Motor Speedway FEMA facility for crowd monitoring and vehicle counting, demonstrating practical applications of drone technology. Their transparent approach helped the public understand and accept drone operations by clearly communicating their purpose and benefits. This strategy directly addresses common misconceptions about drone surveillance and privacy concerns. By actively engaging with the community and showing real-world applications, they built trust and support for drone programs. The success of this approach shows how transparency and education can transform public perception of drone technology in emergency response.

  • [40:07] Securing Support for Public Safety Drone Programs
    Michael emphasizes the importance of educating public officials and city managers about the concrete benefits of drone technology in emergency response. He recommends focusing on demonstrating real-world applications and success stories from around the globe to justify program funding. This approach helps overcome the common perception of drones as mere toys rather than essential public safety tools. By highlighting how drones enhance officer safety and public service capabilities, agencies can better justify investment in drone programs. The key is consistently showing how drone technology directly improves emergency response capabilities and community safety.

  • [50:27] Getting Started in Public Safety Drone Operations
    Michael advises newcomers to start by studying for their Part 107 license to understand the fundamentals of operating in national airspace. He emphasizes the importance of understanding both the technology's capabilities and its regulatory framework before implementation. This foundation helps agencies develop effective and compliant drone programs from the start. The next step is connecting with local first responders to learn about existing programs and identify opportunities for collaboration. Success comes from combining technical knowledge with community engagement and practical application in public safety scenarios.


    Episode Resources:


Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Previous Guests include: Matt Rowland, Jason Burnside

Check out our 3 most downloaded episodes:
]]> Tue, 16 Dec 2025 12:00:00 +0000 DroneSense DroneSense 2729 In this eye-opening episode of DroneCast, host Joe Kearns sits down with Michael Hill, a trailblazer in drone technology and public safety, to discuss the transformative impact drones are having on emergency response. From his early days with a toy Batman drone to becoming a certified UAV pilot in three countries, Michael offers invaluable insights into the integration of drones in search and rescue operations, the obstacles facing public safety departments, and the future of unmanned aerial systems. Learn how emerging technologies like AI and autonomous flight are revolutionizing emergency response and hear practical advice for departments aiming to establish their own drone programs. This episode is a must-listen for first responders, drone enthusiasts, and public safety professionals looking to understand the powerful role drones are playing in saving lives and reshaping emergency services. In this eye-opening episode of DroneCast, host Joe Kearns sits down with Michael Hill, a trailblazer in drone technology and public safety, to discuss the transformative impact drones are having on emergency response. From his early days with a toy Batman drone to becoming a certified UAV pilot in three countries, Michael offers invaluable insights into the integration of drones in search and rescue operations, the obstacles facing public safety departments, and the future of unmanned aerial systems. Learn how emerging technologies like AI and autonomous flight are revolutionizing emergency response and hear practical advice for departments aiming to establish their own drone programs. This episode is a must-listen for first responders, drone enthusiasts, and public safety professionals looking to understand the powerful role drones are playing in saving lives and reshaping emergency services. No No Shaping the Future—Legislation, Innovation & Force Multiplication https://podcasts.fame.so/e/x81205qn-dj-smith-part2 Shaping the Future—Legislation, Innovation & Force Multiplication 46 No No 713r2n60 In this release of DroneCast, host Joe Kearns sits down with DJ Smith — recently retired from the Virginia State Police after 31 years of service and now part of Amazon Global’s SPEAR STT organization. A national leader in counter-drone operations, DJ reflects on his decades in technical surveillance and how his expertise continues to shape CUAS innovation and airspace security in the private sector. He discusses the urgent need for smarter drone legislation, the growing threat of unauthorized drone activity, and how innovation continues to safeguard the skies — and those who serve beneath them.
Our host Joe Kearns welcomes DJ Smith, a recently retired 31-years in public safety who served as the Unmanned Aerial CUAS Program Coordinator for the Virginia State Police and now joins Amazon Global’s SPEAR STT organization.

From his early days experimenting with drones to becoming a national leader in counter-drone defense, DJ shares how dedication to safety, education, and innovation drives his mission. He discusses how counter-drone technology is evolving to defend against emerging threats, why legislative reform is vital for local enforcement, and how real-world testing in Virginia — and now his work in the private sector — are setting a new standard for airspace security.

DJ also highlights how collaboration between agencies mirrors the teamwork and discipline found in military service — proving that protecting our homeland extends beyond the battlefield. This episode is a powerful reminder that service takes many forms, and innovation is the next frontier of defense.


What You’ll Learn:

  • Why autonomous drones are redefining counter-UAS response
  • How budget limitations restrict SLTT access to advanced detection tools
  • Why remote ID 2.0 must be rebuilt for real compliance
  • The biggest challenges in urban CUAS testing and signal propagation
  • How dark drones bypass traditional detection systems
  • Why ports are high-risk choke points for drone threats
  • The role of drones in wildfire, EMS, and DFR operations
  • Best practices for training police and responders on drone incidents
  • How education can reduce 95% of drone-related problems
  • DJ’s “Day One” vision for national drone safety standards


Helpful Links:


Episode Highlights:

  • [00:04:21] The “Day One” Framework — Clear Rules Before Advanced Air Mobility - Joe Kearns calls for an 18-month national drone education campaign followed by a firm “Day One” enforcement date. Without clear rules, agencies can’t distinguish mistakes from violations. His model: educate first, enforce second. Virginia already uses this approach with reference cards that apply aircraft registration rules to drones — a foundation needed before scaling advanced air mobility like medical deliveries.

  • [00:05:55] Urban Testing Exposes Detection Gaps - Urban environments create signal reflection, absorption, and RF congestion that desert testing fails to reveal. DHS testing showed cities can mask drone signatures entirely. Real effectiveness requires urban-specific sensor placement, altitude tuning, and overlap zones — not desert-based assumptions. Norfolk’s sensor project proves agencies must test in real terrain to reach realistic 70–80% detection accuracy.

  • [00:10:42] Hampton Roads: From $1M to $30–50K Per Square Mile - Hampton Roads cut airspace awareness costs from $1M+ to $30–50K per square mile by leveraging military infrastructure and federal partners. This makes scalable detection possible for SLTT agencies with limited budgets. The model also supports future drone services like emergency medical deliveries. Core principle: start small, expand outward, and share data across agencies.

  • [00:25:42] Treat Every Drone as Evidence - Kearns advises officers to treat every drone as evidence until proven otherwise. Innocent crashes can hide stalking, espionage, or network intrusion — as seen when a Phantom 4 sniffed banking credentials during a breach attempt. Protocol: 300-ft perimeter, forensic documentation, and use of existing aviation laws for registration and pilot requirements. This evidence chain turns drone incidents into prosecutable cases.

  • [00:28:55] Use Existing Aviation Codes for Drone Enforcement - Most states already classify drones as aircraft, meaning registration, licensing, and sobriety rules apply without new laws. This removes ambiguity and improves compliance. Virginia and Georgia now train officers with a card showing pilot-interaction steps and crime-scene protocols grounded in aviation law. Result: consistent enforcement and fewer legal loopholes.

  • [00:32:31] Drones as Tactical & SAR Force Multipliers - Virginia’s seven full-time tactical teams use drones on every callout—from meth labs to attic clears—because drones absorb risk officers would face. “I’d rather replace a drone than a trooper.” Drones also cut search-and-rescue time and reduce helicopter conflicts using clear deconfliction policies. The takeaway: drones reduce danger, speed operations, and deliver measurable ROI for public safety leadership.


Episode Resources:

Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Previous Guests include: Matt Rowland, Jason Burnside

Check out our 3 most downloaded episodes:
]]> Tue, 25 Nov 2025 12:00:00 +0000 DroneSense DroneSense 2286 In this release of DroneCast, host Joe Kearns sits down with DJ Smith — recently retired from the Virginia State Police after 31 years of service and now part of Amazon Global’s SPEAR STT organization. A national leader in counter-drone operations, DJ reflects on his decades in technical surveillance and how his expertise continues to shape CUAS innovation and airspace security in the private sector. He discusses the urgent need for smarter drone legislation, the growing threat of unauthorized drone activity, and how innovation continues to safeguard the skies — and those who serve beneath them. In this release of DroneCast, host Joe Kearns sits down with DJ Smith — recently retired from the Virginia State Police after 31 years of service and now part of Amazon Global’s SPEAR STT organization. A national leader in counter-drone operations, DJ reflects on his decades in technical surveillance and how his expertise continues to shape CUAS innovation and airspace security in the private sector. He discusses the urgent need for smarter drone legislation, the growing threat of unauthorized drone activity, and how innovation continues to safeguard the skies — and those who serve beneath them. No No From Tech Surveillance to Counter-Drone Innovation https://podcasts.fame.so/e/1n330kzn-dj-smith-part1 From Tech Surveillance to Counter-Drone Innovation 45 No No m1jpkv61 In this Veterans Day release of DroneCast, host Joe Kearns sits down with DJ Smith — recently retired from the Virginia State Police after 31 years of service and now part of Amazon Global’s SPEAR STT organization. A national leader in counter-drone operations, DJ reflects on his decades in technical surveillance and how his expertise continues to shape CUAS innovation and airspace security in the private sector. He discusses the urgent need for smarter drone legislation, the growing threat of unauthorized drone activity, and how innovation continues to safeguard the skies — and those who serve beneath them. In honor of Veterans Day, this special episode of DroneCast celebrates those who serve — not just on the frontlines, but also in the critical missions that protect our nation every day. Host Joe Kearns welcomes DJ Smith, a recently retired 31-year veteran in public safety who served as the Unmanned Aerial CUAS Program Coordinator for the Virginia State Police and now joins Amazon Global’s SPEAR STT organization.
From his early days experimenting with drones to becoming a national leader in counter-drone defense, DJ shares how dedication to safety, education, and innovation drives his mission. He discusses how counter-drone technology is evolving to defend against emerging threats, why legislative reform is vital for local enforcement, and how real-world testing in Virginia — and now his work in the private sector — are setting a new standard for airspace security.

DJ also highlights how collaboration between agencies mirrors the teamwork and discipline found in military service — proving that protecting our homeland extends beyond the battlefield. This episode is a powerful reminder that service takes many forms, and innovation is the next frontier of defense.


What You’ll Learn:

  • How counter-drone legislation impacts state and local enforcement capabilities
  • The importance of detection, tracking, and decoding in modern CUAS operations
  • How Virginia is pioneering real-world drone detection and airspace awareness
  • Why correctional facilities could be the testbeds for mitigation tools
  • How remote ID and decoding could reshape national drone policy
  • The role of education in bridging the knowledge gap for law enforcement and the public
  • Why counter-drone technology and DFR programs must evolve together
  • How data-driven insights can guide smarter legislative carve-outs


Helpful Links:


Episode Highlights:

  • [00:06:11] Education is the First Line of Defense  – DJ explains that the biggest challenge in counter-drone work isn't technology—it’s education. Misconceptions persist among hobbyists, law enforcement, and even legislators, making it vital to teach what ‘safe and legal flight’ really means.

  • [00:09:56] Legislative Limitations on Detection – Smith outlines how current laws restrict agencies to passive detection only, preventing them from decoding or identifying most drones. He discusses how this limits situational awareness and why federal carve-outs are needed.

  • [00:16:16] Virginia’s Real-World Testing – DJ describes how the Virginia Innovation Partnership Corporation deployed mobile detection trailers statewide to create a snapshot of airspace activity—revealing hundreds of weekly drone flights, most undetected by standard tools.

  • [00:23:29] The Case for Mitigation Carve-Outs – Correctional facilities, Smith argues, offer controlled environments ideal for testing mitigation tools safely. He details how drones are used to smuggle contraband, even weapons, into prisons—underscoring the urgency for legislative change.

  • [00:25:31] The Economic Stakes of Drone Espionage – From shipyards to chemical plants, DJ warns that industrial espionage via drones costs the U.S. billions annually. He calls for detection rights at critical infrastructure sites to protect intellectual property.
  • [00:31:47] Lessons from 9/11 – Smith emphasizes the need for a national reporting system for drone incidents, drawing parallels to intelligence gaps before 9/11. He argues that connecting small signals can prevent large-scale security threats.

  • [00:32:44] The Future of Detection and Mitigation – DJ outlines the evolution of advanced decoding, AI-driven identification, and soft cyber takeover as the next frontier for CUAS technology—balancing security and safety in shared airspace.

Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Previous Guests include: Matt Rowland, Jason Burnside

Check out our 3 most downloaded episodes:
]]> Wed, 12 Nov 2025 12:00:00 +0000 DroneSense DroneSense 2087 In this Veterans Day release of DroneCast, host Joe Kearns sits down with DJ Smith — recently retired from the Virginia State Police after 31 years of service and now part of Amazon Global’s SPEAR STT organization. A national leader in counter-drone operations, DJ reflects on his decades in technical surveillance and how his expertise continues to shape CUAS innovation and airspace security in the private sector. He discusses the urgent need for smarter drone legislation, the growing threat of unauthorized drone activity, and how innovation continues to safeguard the skies — and those who serve beneath them. In this Veterans Day release of DroneCast, host Joe Kearns sits down with DJ Smith — recently retired from the Virginia State Police after 31 years of service and now part of Amazon Global’s SPEAR STT organization. A national leader in counter-drone operations, DJ reflects on his decades in technical surveillance and how his expertise continues to shape CUAS innovation and airspace security in the private sector. He discusses the urgent need for smarter drone legislation, the growing threat of unauthorized drone activity, and how innovation continues to safeguard the skies — and those who serve beneath them. No No DFR at Scale: Implementation, Challenges, and the Path Forward https://podcasts.fame.so/e/0njyvrx8-dfr-at-scale-implementation-challenges-and-the-path-forward DFR at Scale: Implementation, Challenges, and the Path Forward 44 No No 40pqyvp1 In Part 2 of this DroneCast conversation, host Joe Kearns continues his discussion with Matt Sloane, Co-founder and Chief Strategy Officer at Skyfire AI, to explore what Drone as First Responder (DFR) at scale truly means in the wake of the FAA’s proposed Part 108 rule. They examine how multi-agency collaboration, smarter cost-sharing, and advanced training infrastructures, such as Skyfire’s new 2,200-acre facility in Huntsville, Alabama, will accelerate adoption. Matt and Joe also address the cultural and technical challenges that prevent DFR programs from getting off the ground, emphasizing practical steps for mid-sized agencies to start small, stay compliant, and scale intelligently. In “Scaling DFR: Regional Collaboration, Real-World Training, and the Road Beyond Part 108,” DroneCast host Joe Kearns and guest Matt Sloane from Skyfire AI unpack what DFR “at scale” really looks like and how public safety organizations can prepare for it. Building on Part 1’s breakdown of the FAA’s proposed Part 108 rule, this episode dives into the operational realities of bringing DFR programs beyond pilot projects. Matt and Joe highlight the importance of regional and state-level cooperation, where agencies share radar, infrastructure, and data to reduce costs and improve interoperability.

They discuss why interoperability and cost-sharing models are essential to success and how the lack of them currently slows the industry’s growth. As Matt notes, the key is collaboration, not competition, between police, fire, EMS, and city departments that often operate in silos.

The conversation then turns to Skyfire AI’s new training and testing facility in Huntsville, Alabama, a 2,200-acre “DFR Village” designed for hands-on testing of hardware, software, and real-world scenarios. This environment allows agencies to compare platforms, simulate incidents, and develop scalable, compliant programs ahead of Part 108’s adoption.

Finally, Matt and Joe address why some DFR programs fail, citing unrealistic expectations, overreliance on vendor promises, and lack of ongoing operational support. They advocate for starting small, focusing on mission relevance, and developing partnerships that extend beyond sales. The episode concludes with a look ahead at cybersecurity, autonomy, and data-sharing mandates that Part 108 will usher in, urging leaders to take their programs, policies, and training more seriously than ever.

What You’ll Learn:

  • What “DFR at scale” looks like beyond individual agency deployments
  • How cost-sharing radar and infrastructure enable regional operations
  • Why interoperability between hardware and software vendors remains a major challenge
  • The role of AI and autonomy in managing multi-ship or swarm operations
  • The purpose of Skyfire AI’s new 2,200-acre training facility and how it supports DFR adoption
  • Why most DFR programs fail—and how to avoid the pitfalls of hype-driven spending
  • The growing importance of cybersecurity and physical site security under Part 108
  • Practical steps for midsize agencies to build sustainable, compliant DFR programs
  • How collaboration through organizations like Drone Responders fosters best practices
  • Why public safety leaders must take program governance, data, and training seriously

Helpful Links:

Episode Highlights:

  • [00:15] The Future is Regional
    Joe Kearns explains why local, regional, and even statewide DFR programs are inevitable—and how shared radar and cost-sharing can make it possible.
  • [08:56] The DFR Village: Training Without the Guesswork
    Matt describes Skyfire’s new training facility, where agencies can test drones, sensors, and software in real-world conditions before purchasing—saving time and avoiding mismatched investments.

  • [11:36] Why DFR Programs Fail
    Unrealistic expectations and one-size-fits-all thinking cause most programs to stall. Matt emphasizes the importance of pilot projects, iterative learning, and program alignment with actual mission needs.

  • [16:00] Start Small, Scale Smart
    Matt shares how agencies can begin DFR operations today with minimal cost—by simply deploying from rooftops within line of sight—and grow strategically from there.

  • [21:54] Cybersecurity and Physical Site Access
    Under Part 108, operators must adopt strict access controls, reporting, and data safeguards, with TSA now involved in the regulatory conversation.

  • [23:40] Detect and Avoid Dilemmas
    Matt warns that the FAA’s radar and detect-and-avoid requirements could pose cost barriers for small operators—and calls for a more flexible, scalable approach.

  • [27:33] The Future of Skyfire AI
    Matt outlines Skyfire’s focus on autonomy, multi-ship formations, and AI-driven mission planning to expand DFR capabilities safely and efficiently.


Episode Resources:


Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Previous Guests include: Matt Rowland, Jason Burnside

Check out our 3 most downloaded episodes:
]]> Tue, 28 Oct 2025 11:00:00 +0000 DroneSense DroneSense 2052 In Part 2 of this DroneCast conversation, host Joe Kearns continues his discussion with Matt Sloane, Co-founder and Chief Strategy Officer at Skyfire AI, to explore what Drone as First Responder (DFR) at scale truly means in the wake of the FAA’s proposed Part 108 rule. They examine how multi-agency collaboration, smarter cost-sharing, and advanced training infrastructures, such as Skyfire’s new 2,200-acre facility in Huntsville, Alabama, will accelerate adoption. Matt and Joe also address the cultural and technical challenges that prevent DFR programs from getting off the ground, emphasizing practical steps for mid-sized agencies to start small, stay compliant, and scale intelligently. In Part 2 of this DroneCast conversation, host Joe Kearns continues his discussion with Matt Sloane, Co-founder and Chief Strategy Officer at Skyfire AI, to explore what Drone as First Responder (DFR) at scale truly means in the wake of the FAA’s proposed Part 108 rule. They examine how multi-agency collaboration, smarter cost-sharing, and advanced training infrastructures, such as Skyfire’s new 2,200-acre facility in Huntsville, Alabama, will accelerate adoption. Matt and Joe also address the cultural and technical challenges that prevent DFR programs from getting off the ground, emphasizing practical steps for mid-sized agencies to start small, stay compliant, and scale intelligently. No No Decoding Part 108: The Future Framework for BVLOS Operations https://podcasts.fame.so/e/qn0vmm1n-matt-sloane-skyfire Decoding Part 108: The Future Framework for BVLOS Operations 43 No No p1knkkl0 In Part 1 of this exciting DroneCast conversation, host Joe Kearns sits down with Matt Sloane, Co-founder and Chief Strategy Officer at Skyfire AI, to unpack the FAA’s proposed Part 108 rule, a comprehensive framework for routine Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) drone operations. Matt explains how this proposal could reshape drone regulations across public safety, commercial, and defense sectors, from standardizing BVLOS approvals to encouraging autonomy and organizational accountability. This episode sets the stage for what’s to come in Part 2, where Matt and Joe will go even deeper into the implications of autonomy, AI integration, and the evolution of DFR (Drone as First Responder) programs as Part 108 moves toward finalization. In “Decoding Part 108: The Future Framework for BVLOS Operations,” DroneCast host Joe Kearns talks with Matt Sloane, Co-founder and Chief Strategy Officer at Skyfire AI, about the FAA’s proposed Part 108 rule, a pivotal step toward normalizing Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) drone operations across the U.S.

Part 108 isn’t yet an official rule; it’s a proposal from the FAA designed to create a scalable, risk-based framework for BVLOS operations, replacing today’s fragmented system of case-by-case waivers under Part 107. The concept evolved from the BVLOS Aviation Rulemaking Committee (ARC) and the FAA’s broader Drone Integration Concept of Operations (ConOps). The Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) titled “Normalizing UAS BVLOS Operations” was published on August 7, 2025 (Docket FAA-2025-1908), with the public comment period closing October 6, 2025. The FAA is now reviewing feedback and drafting a final rule, with no confirmed release date.

At its core, the NPRM proposes:

  • Two authorization tiers for BVLOS flights, lower-risk permitted operations and higher-risk certificated operations, linked to aircraft type and mission risk.
  • A predictable pathway for routine BVLOS missions like package delivery, inspection, agriculture, and public safety.
  • A clarified right-of-way framework for drones versus crewed aircraft, emphasizing cooperative equipage and electronic visibility.
  • A shift from individual pilot liability to organizational accountability, requiring roles like operations supervisors and flight coordinators with formalized training, reporting, and safety oversight.
  • A structured path for airworthiness acceptance and standardized operational approvals, replacing the current patchwork of waivers.

Matt unpacks how these proposed changes could reshape public safety drone programs, especially Drone as First Responder (DFR) models. He explains why Part 108 represents a “step change for the industry,” why the FAA’s preference for autonomous operations is a paradigm shift, and how AI can ease the cognitive load on pilots rather than replace them.

With his deep background, spanning 14 years in media with CNN, EMS leadership, and aviation experience, Matt offers an informed, boots-on-the-ground perspective on how Part 108 could transform daily operations once finalized.

What You’ll Learn:

  • The true nature of Part 108 as a proposed rule, not yet finalized
  • What the FAA’s NPRM (Normalizing UAS BVLOS Operations) proposes and why it matters
  • The timeline and key milestones from the May 2025 Drone Integration ConOps to the Oct 2025 comment deadline
  • The two-tiered structure for BVLOS operations: permitted vs. certificated
  • Why this marks a step change for the drone industry
  • How autonomy and AI are driving the next era of flight operations
  • What organizational accountability means for public safety and commercial operators
  • How the FAA plans to define right-of-way and airworthiness under the new framework
  • What will change for operators once the rule is adopted—training, roles, and recordkeeping
  • How this proposal sets the stage for routine, scalable BVLOS missions across industries

Helpful Links:

Episode Highlights:

  • [10:20] Step Change for the Industry
    Matt calls Part 108 the biggest regulatory shift the drone industry has ever seen. Building on the foundation of Part 107, this new rule acts as “107 on steroids,” paving the way for long-range inspection, delivery, and advanced public safety operations like search and rescue.

  • [16:04] Autonomy Paradigm Shift
    Matt explains the FAA’s unprecedented statement that it doesn’t anticipate human pilots flying drones under Part 108. This marks a paradigm shift toward full autonomy, especially as platforms like Skyfire AI and DroneSense already integrate semi-autonomous functions in their operations.

  • [21:51] The AI Hesitancy Factor
    While AI can handle many pilot responsibilities, Matt acknowledges the industry’s concern about automation “taking over jobs.” Instead, he views it as a tool that offloads cognitive load, allowing pilots to focus on decisions AI can’t make.

  • [17:00] From Rooftop Observers to Optical Detection
    Matt discusses the coming end of “rooftop observers” for agencies once their COAs expire and the likely transition toward radar or optical detection systems, signaling a major evolution in visual deconfliction practices.

  • [18:00] Organizational Accountability
    Under Part 108, the FAA will hold organizations—not individual pilots—responsible for compliance. This change brings a new layer of professionalism and oversight to public safety drone programs.


Episode Resources:


Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Previous Guests include: Matt Rowland, Jason Burnside

Check out our 3 most downloaded episodes:
]]> Tue, 14 Oct 2025 11:00:00 +0000 DroneSense DroneSense 1196 In Part 1 of this exciting DroneCast conversation, host Joe Kearns sits down with Matt Sloane, Co-founder and Chief Strategy Officer at Skyfire AI, to unpack the FAA’s proposed Part 108 rule, a comprehensive framework for routine Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) drone operations. Matt explains how this proposal could reshape drone regulations across public safety, commercial, and defense sectors, from standardizing BVLOS approvals to encouraging autonomy and organizational accountability. This episode sets the stage for what’s to come in Part 2, where Matt and Joe will go even deeper into the implications of autonomy, AI integration, and the evolution of DFR (Drone as First Responder) programs as Part 108 moves toward finalization. In Part 1 of this exciting DroneCast conversation, host Joe Kearns sits down with Matt Sloane, Co-founder and Chief Strategy Officer at Skyfire AI, to unpack the FAA’s proposed Part 108 rule, a comprehensive framework for routine Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) drone operations. Matt explains how this proposal could reshape drone regulations across public safety, commercial, and defense sectors, from standardizing BVLOS approvals to encouraging autonomy and organizational accountability. This episode sets the stage for what’s to come in Part 2, where Matt and Joe will go even deeper into the implications of autonomy, AI integration, and the evolution of DFR (Drone as First Responder) programs as Part 108 moves toward finalization. No No Why Your Drone Program is Doomed to Fail (And How to Save It) with David Spraggs https://podcasts.fame.so/e/x812q39n-david-spraggs-part2 Why Your Drone Program is Doomed to Fail (And How to Save It) with David Spraggs 42 No No 713r6980 In Part 2 of this DroneCast conversation, Joe Kearns continues his discussion with David Spraggs, former bomb squad commander and current Manager of Customer Success at DroneSense. Building on Part 1, David dives deeper into practical strategies for launching and scaling public safety drone programs—covering communication, interagency collaboration, and the future of Drone as First Responder (DFR) initiatives. This episode offers a roadmap for agencies seeking to move beyond adoption into sustainable, mission-driven growth. In Part 2 of this special DroneCast series, Joe Kearns continues the conversation with David Spraggs, Manager of Customer Success at DroneSense and veteran public safety leader. With more than 26 years at the Boulder Police Department including service as a bomb squad commander and pioneer of one of the nation’s early police drone programs—David brings both tactical expertise and technical insight into how drones can reshape public safety operations. Today, in his role at DroneSense, he leads a team of customer success managers and learning development specialists, all with public safety backgrounds, helping agencies nationwide implement sustainable drone programs.

This episode builds on David’s Part 1 story of early adoption and community trust, shifting focus toward advanced strategies and lessons for long-term program success. He explains why clear communication between frontline officers and drone operators is essential, how structured training schedules sustain readiness, and why leveraging existing resources like LEDA and Drone Responders accelerates adoption. David also discusses the leadership skills often overlooked in technology programs—such as emotional intelligence, transparency, and authentic collaboration—that determine whether a program thrives or stalls.

Looking forward, David unpacks the realities of Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations, the growing role of Drone as First Responder (DFR) programs, and the importance of setting realistic expectations around technology capabilities. With his blend of law enforcement experience, forensic science background, and current leadership role at DroneSense, David provides a candid, actionable perspective for agencies at every stage of their UAS journey.


What You’ll Learn:

  • How to build effective communication channels between frontline officers and drone teams
  • Why established training schedules are crucial for successful drone program implementation
  • The framework for launching a drone program without “reinventing the wheel”
  • How to leverage existing public safety resources like LEDA and Drone Responders
  • Why emotional intelligence and clear communication are essential for program leadership
  • How to navigate the rapidly evolving landscape of Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations
  • The importance of setting realistic expectations about drone capabilities in public safety
  • How to build trust between agencies through authentic, experience-based relationships
  • Why community collaboration is crucial for advancing public safety drone operations
  • The key factors driving drone program adoption and technological advancement in 2024


Helpful Links:


Episode Highlights:

  • [07:03] Building Effective Communication Between Teams - David Spraggs emphasizes that communication is fundamental to bridging the gap between frontline officers and drone teams. Program managers must ensure all team members understand both the capabilities and limitations of drone technology, particularly the 25-30 minute flight time constraints. Clear communication helps set realistic expectations and prevents misunderstandings during critical operations. Regular debriefings and "hot washes" after missions help identify gaps and improve coordination between field teams and UAS operators. Regular training days, matching other specialized units' schedules, are essential for maintaining operational readiness and team cohesion.

  • [10:31] Strategic Training Implementation for New Drone Programs - When mentoring new drone programs, Kearns focuses on establishing structured training schedules similar to other specialized units. Many agencies overlook dedicated training time while focusing on hardware and mission planning. Program managers should advocate for regular training days, comparable to SWAT or Bomb Squad schedules of 2-4 days per month. This systematic approach helps build muscle memory with equipment and procedures, essential for high-pressure situations. Consistent training ensures teams can operate effectively during real-world missions while maintaining safety standards.

  • [17:11] Leveraging Existing Resources and Community Knowledge - Spraggs strongly advises against "reinventing the wheel" when starting new drone programs. The public safety drone community openly shares resources, from program documents to operational expertise. Agencies should actively network through conferences, training events, and professional organizations like LEDA. Successful programs regularly collaborate across state lines, with agencies helping each other develop effective UAS operations. The community's "help first" mentality creates a supportive environment for program development and implementation.

  • [18:20] The Future of Drone First Response (DFR)- The landscape of DFR is rapidly evolving with accelerated FAA waiver processes and expanding operational possibilities. Agencies can now obtain BVLOS waivers within weeks instead of months, particularly for sub-200 foot operations with basic ADS-B equipment. Safety remains paramount while flexibility and speed of deployment increase. Significant hardware advances are expected in the next 12-24 months, introducing new operational capabilities. These developments will dramatically expand the scope and effectiveness of public safety drone operations.

Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Previous Guests include: Matt Rowland, Jason Burnside

Check out our 3 most downloaded episodes:
]]> Tue, 30 Sep 2025 11:00:00 +0000 DroneSense DroneSense 1210 In Part 2 of this DroneCast conversation, Joe Kearns continues his discussion with David Spraggs, former bomb squad commander and current Manager of Customer Success at DroneSense. Building on Part 1, David dives deeper into practical strategies for launching and scaling public safety drone programs—covering communication, interagency collaboration, and the future of Drone as First Responder (DFR) initiatives. This episode offers a roadmap for agencies seeking to move beyond adoption into sustainable, mission-driven growth. In Part 2 of this DroneCast conversation, Joe Kearns continues his discussion with David Spraggs, former bomb squad commander and current Manager of Customer Success at DroneSense. Building on Part 1, David dives deeper into practical strategies for launching and scaling public safety drone programs—covering communication, interagency collaboration, and the future of Drone as First Responder (DFR) initiatives. This episode offers a roadmap for agencies seeking to move beyond adoption into sustainable, mission-driven growth. No No The Reality Check: What American Drone Manufacturing Really Means with Randall Warnas https://podcasts.fame.so/e/2nxzpj9n-the-reality-check-what-american-drone-manufacturing-really-means-with-randall-warnas The Reality Check: What American Drone Manufacturing Really Means with Randall Warnas 41 No No 61mk2px1 In Part 2 of this DroneCast conversation, Joe Kearns sits down with Randall Warnas, CEO of Anzu Robotics, to explore the realities of building a trusted American drone company. Randall shares how Anzu is tackling the challenge of earning public safety trust, balancing innovation with regulatory pressures, and building a sustainable market presence amid intense geopolitical dynamics. This episode delivers candid insights for anyone invested in the future of U.S. drone manufacturing. In Part 2 of this insightful DroneCast discussion, Joe Kearns continues his conversation with Randall Warnas, CEO of Anzu Robotics, about the opportunities and challenges of growing an American drone company in today’s complex market. With over a decade of experience in the drone industry—including leadership roles at DJI and now Anzu—Randall brings deep expertise in technology, market dynamics, and building trust with public safety agencies and commercial operators. His work has centered on bridging the gap between American-made drone capabilities and real-world market needs, while navigating the geopolitical and regulatory pressures that shape the industry.

During this episode, Randall shares how Anzu is building credibility through transparency, reliability, and community engagement. He highlights why accessibility and education are as critical as the technology itself, how to realistically integrate AI into drone operations, and why patience and strategic focus are vital to long-term growth. Together, Joe and Randall unpack what it takes for American companies to compete in a DJI-dominated space, offering a rare combination of technical, strategic, and relationship-driven insights.

Whether you’re a public safety professional, policymaker, or commercial drone operator, Part 2 of this conversation provides an unfiltered perspective on the evolving future of U.S. drone manufacturing.


What You’ll Learn:

  • How to build trust with public safety agencies through reliable technology and transparent practices
  • Why accessibility and industry education drive adoption more than technical specs alone
  • A framework for balancing partnership opportunities with limited manufacturing capacity
  • How to navigate the challenges of American drone manufacturing amid global geopolitical pressures
  • The reality of AI in drone operations—what’s practical vs. hyp
  • Why community engagement and education are critical for long-term growth
  • The hurdles and opportunities in transitioning from international to domestic production
  • How to ensure product quality and reliability while growing an American drone ecosystem
  • The importance of balancing innovation with practical, real-world needs
  • Why patience and strategic focus are key to scaling a U.S. drone company


Helpful Links:


Episode Highlights:

  • [01:53] Building Trust Through Reliability and Support - Randall Warnas emphasizes that building trust with public safety agencies requires both reliable technology and strong organizational support. The focus must be on delivering drones that are easy to deploy, integrate well with existing systems, and cost under $10,000 for practical procurement. Their Anzu Care program offers one year of hot-swap replacements to minimize downtime and demonstrate commitment to customer success. Agencies need straightforward solutions without subscription models or complex software requirements to focus on their core mission of saving lives. The key is providing dependable tools that work consistently while backing them with responsive support when issues arise.

  • [17:31] Education as the Foundation for Industry Growth - Randall Warnas identifies education as the most challenging yet crucial element for advancing drone technology adoption. The hardest audience to reach are the decision-makers who don't directly interact with the technology - lawyers, accountants, and administrators who shape policies and budgets. Building trust requires demonstrating practical applications that solve real problems rather than just showcasing capabilities. The focus should be on creating positive experiences that highlight reliability and utility while avoiding stunts that could damage public perception. Community outreach, especially to schools and youth programs, helps build long-term understanding and acceptance of drone technology.

  • [27:00] The Practical Impact of AI on Drone Operations - Randall Warnass  outlines how AI will transform drone operations by simplifying complex tasks and improving decision-making. The technology enables automated mission planning, analysis, and report generation while maintaining human oversight of critical functions. AI's role is to enhance rather than replace human capabilities, making operations more consistent and reliable. The focus should be on practical applications like optimizing flight patterns and analyzing collected data rather than chasing buzzwords. This approach allows organizations to leverage AI's strengths while maintaining operational control and safety standards.

  • [31:26] Managing American Drone Manufacturing Expectations - Randall Warnass addresses misconceptions about American-made drones by acknowledging both challenges and opportunities in domestic manufacturing. While current domestic offerings may lack some features of international competitors, they can still effectively accomplish core missions and tasks. The focus should be on delivering reliable solutions rather than trying to match every feature of foreign manufacturers. The transition period requires setting realistic expectations while maintaining confidence in American innovation capabilities. Success depends on finding the right balance between capability and cost while building domestic manufacturing capacity.


Episode Resources:


Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Previous Guests include: Matt Rowland, Jason Burnside

Check out our 3 most downloaded episodes:
]]> Tue, 16 Sep 2025 11:00:00 +0000 DroneSense DroneSense 2463 In Part 2 of this DroneCast conversation, Joe Kearns sits down with Randall Warnas, CEO of Anzu Robotics, to explore the realities of building a trusted American drone company. Randall shares how Anzu is tackling the challenge of earning public safety trust, balancing innovation with regulatory pressures, and building a sustainable market presence amid intense geopolitical dynamics. This episode delivers candid insights for anyone invested in the future of U.S. drone manufacturing. In Part 2 of this DroneCast conversation, Joe Kearns sits down with Randall Warnas, CEO of Anzu Robotics, to explore the realities of building a trusted American drone company. Randall shares how Anzu is tackling the challenge of earning public safety trust, balancing innovation with regulatory pressures, and building a sustainable market presence amid intense geopolitical dynamics. This episode delivers candid insights for anyone invested in the future of U.S. drone manufacturing. No No No Budget, All Guts: Building a Drone Program with Borrowed Cash and a Prayer with David Spraggs https://podcasts.fame.so/e/2nxzp9rn-david-spraggs-part1 No Budget, All Guts: Building a Drone Program with Borrowed Cash and a Prayer with David Spraggs 40 No No 61mk2xq1 In Part 1 of this special two-part DroneCast conversation, host Joe Kearns sits down with David Spraggs, former bomb squad commander and current Manager of Customer Success at DroneSense, to explore his pioneering work bringing drones into law enforcement. From his first exposure to a $150,000 UAS in 2014 to building Boulder PD’s drone program from the ground up, David reveals how drones moved from “nice-to-have gadgets” to mission-critical tools in public safety. He shares lessons on community trust, funding, documentation, and cross-agency collaboration that remain essential for agencies building or scaling their own programs today. Stay tuned for Part 2, where David continues his journey and dives deeper into advanced applications and lessons learned. In this episode of DroneCast, host Joe Kearns speaks with David Spraggs, a veteran law enforcement officer with more than two decades at the Boulder Police Department and now Manager of Customer Success at DroneSense. David’s journey into unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) began in 2014 when he first encountered a $150,000 drone while serving as bomb squad commander. This sparked a vision that would ultimately lead him to pioneer Boulder PD’s drone program, turning drones from a niche technology into an indispensable part of public safety response.

David recounts a pivotal mission involving a suicidal subject where drone technology shifted from experimental to essential, cementing its role in critical incident response. He explains the strategies he used to secure buy-in, navigate resistance, and build transparency with the community, factors that ensured the program’s legitimacy and long-term success. His experience highlights the importance of proper documentation, accountability systems, and data-driven reporting in sustaining and scaling drone programs.

The episode also explores the evolution of drone use in public safety, from high-cost specialized platforms to accessible, versatile tools that transform hazmat response, search and rescue, and incident command. David emphasizes the need for cross-agency collaboration, knowledge sharing, and balancing innovative technology adoption with practical operational needs.

Drawing from his unique background in chemistry, forensic science, aviation, and over 20 years in law enforcement, David combines tactical expertise with technical knowledge to guide agencies in building effective, accountable, and sustainable drone programs. As a former bomb squad commander and pioneer of Boulder PD’s drone program in 2016–2017, he offers hard-earned insights into how UAS integration can reshape public safety operations. Today, as Manager of Customer Success at DroneSense, David continues to help agencies nationwide adopt and expand drone technology in meaningful, mission-driven ways.

This is Part 1 of the conversation. In the next episode, David continues his story, discussing how UAS technology has evolved, the lessons learned from program expansion, and what’s next for public safety drone integration.


What You’ll Learn:
  • How early adoption of drones transformed responses to hazmat, bomb squad, and search-and-rescue incidents
  • Why community trust and transparency are foundational to a sustainable police drone program
  • The critical role of documentation, accountability, and data management in program success
  • Strategies to overcome resistance, budget constraints, and skepticism when launching a program
  • The value of cross-agency collaboration and knowledge sharing for growth and resilience


Helpful Links:
Episode Highlights:

  • [17:45] Building Trust Through Early Wins - David Spraggs shares how their first successful hazmat response with drones at a train derailment helped establish credibility for the program. The team demonstrated immediate value by providing aerial reconnaissance that helped determine there was no hazardous material placarding, allowing for faster incident resolution. While they still lacked dedicated funding at this stage, this early win helped prove the technology's worth to department leadership. The key was focusing on practical applications that directly enhanced operational capabilities rather than just showcasing new technology. Success came from identifying specific use cases where drones could provide unique value to incident commanders. This validation through real-world application helped transition drones from an experimental tool to an essential resource.

  • [23:07] Establishing Program Legitimacy - Initial drone operations required borrowing resources from other units and operating without a formal budget. The team conducted extensive outreach through shift briefings and demonstrations to educate fellow officers about drone capabilities and limitations. A critical breakthrough came after successfully locating a suicidal subject using thermal imaging during a nighttime operation. This high-stakes success led to formal budget allocation within six months and tripled their callout rate. The team's persistence through early challenges while documenting clear operational value was essential for long-term sustainability.

  • [31:09] Community Engagement and Transparency - Spraggs emphasizes the importance of proactively engaging stakeholders when launching a drone program. They coordinated closely with city management, consulted advocacy groups like the ACLU, and studied best practices from established programs nationwide. Having comprehensive flight documentation allowed them to quickly address public concerns by showing exact flight paths and operations. This approach of transparent communication and clear accountability helped build public trust and reduced resistance to the program.

  • [34:45] Streamlining Program Management - The team initially struggled with manual flight logging using paper forms, spreadsheets, and downloaded data files. This created a significant administrative burden and made it difficult to quickly produce program metrics for leadership. Implementation of automated logging and centralized data management became critical for scaling operations. Having instantly accessible, detailed flight records not only improved efficiency but also enhanced their ability to demonstrate value and maintain accountability.


Episode Resources:
Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Previous Guests include: Matt Rowland, Jason Burnside

Check out our 3 most downloaded episodes:
]]> Tue, 02 Sep 2025 11:00:00 +0000 DroneSense DroneSense 2259 In Part 1 of this special two-part DroneCast conversation, host Joe Kearns sits down with David Spraggs, former bomb squad commander and current Manager of Customer Success at DroneSense, to explore his pioneering work bringing drones into law enforcement. From his first exposure to a $150,000 UAS in 2014 to building Boulder PD’s drone program from the ground up, David reveals how drones moved from “nice-to-have gadgets” to mission-critical tools in public safety. He shares lessons on community trust, funding, documentation, and cross-agency collaboration that remain essential for agencies building or scaling their own programs today. Stay tuned for Part 2, where David continues his journey and dives deeper into advanced applications and lessons learned. In Part 1 of this special two-part DroneCast conversation, host Joe Kearns sits down with David Spraggs, former bomb squad commander and current Manager of Customer Success at DroneSense, to explore his pioneering work bringing drones into law enforcement. From his first exposure to a $150,000 UAS in 2014 to building Boulder PD’s drone program from the ground up, David reveals how drones moved from “nice-to-have gadgets” to mission-critical tools in public safety. He shares lessons on community trust, funding, documentation, and cross-agency collaboration that remain essential for agencies building or scaling their own programs today. Stay tuned for Part 2, where David continues his journey and dives deeper into advanced applications and lessons learned. No No Red, White, and Green: Politics, Tech, and the Fight for American Skies with Randall Warnas https://podcasts.fame.so/e/v85jw5qn-randall-warnas-anzu-robotics Red, White, and Green: Politics, Tech, and the Fight for American Skies with Randall Warnas 39 No No 81q3jqn1 In this episode of DroneCast, host Joe Kearns sits down with Randall Warnas, CEO of Anzu Robotics, to discuss the rapidly evolving world of American drone manufacturing. Randall shares how Anzu bridges the gap between Chinese and domestic drone solutions, tackles complex geopolitical and cybersecurity challenges, and builds trust in a DJI-dominated market. This candid conversation delivers strategic insights for anyone invested in the future of secure, US-based drone technology. In this insightful episode of DroneCast, host Joe Kearns interviews Randall Warnas, CEO of Anzu Robotics, about the opportunities and challenges of building a leading American drone company. With a background spanning years in the drone industry, Randall offers a behind-the-scenes look at how Anzu has quickly positioned itself among the top five largest drone manufacturers in its first year of operation—serving public safety agencies, utilities, agronomists, and surveyors seeking secure, non-Chinese drone solutions.

The discussion explores how Anzu leverages licensed technology to deliver commercially viable products while maintaining strict data security standards. Joe explains the delicate balance between affordability, capability, and compliance, offering a practical roadmap for navigating a market long dominated by DJI. He also unpacks the “Decision Matrix” for understanding drone market segmentation, the importance of community building, and why focusing on commercial applications can be more sustainable than chasing defense contracts.

From market positioning to geopolitical navigation, Randall shares how transparency, American values, and strong industry relationships create long-term trust and growth. The episode delivers a rare blend of technical, strategic, and relationship-building insights for drone professionals, policymakers, and commercial operators alike.


What You'll Learn:

  • How to bridge the gap between Chinese and domestic drone manufacturing while ensuring security and affordability
  • Strategies for positioning American drone companies
  • Why customer engagement and community building are critical to long-term success
  • How to navigate complex geopolitical and regulatory challenges in drone manufacturing
  • The “Decision Matrix” for understanding drone market segmentation
  • How to identify genuine market opportunities versus misleading projections
  • The advantages of focusing on commercial applications over defense contracts
  • Why transparency and American values are key to building trust in the drone industry
  • How to balance technical innovation with real-world market needs


Helpful Links:


Episode Highlights:

  • [05:22] The Decision Matrix for Drone Selection - Randall Warnas introduces a clear decision matrix for organizations evaluating drone purchases, starting with whether they can use DJI or Chinese-manufactured drones. For those who cannot use Chinese drones due to security requirements, the next tier involves evaluating domestic and Blue UAS options, which often come with higher costs and unnecessary features. Kearns positions Anzu in a strategic middle ground, offering secure, non-Chinese manufacturing without the premium pricing of military-spec systems. This approach specifically targets commercial users who need reliable, cost-effective drones without thermal capabilities or military-grade features. By manufacturing in Malaysia and securing data with US companies, Anzu provides a practical solution for organizations navigating drone procurement challenges.

  • [14:31] The Power of Active Listening in Industry Leadership - Warnas emphasizes the importance of truly listening to customer needs and industry feedback rather than dismissing new ideas outright. Through his mentorship program offering "career therapy" sessions, he's accumulated over 60 hours of direct conversations with industry professionals, gaining invaluable insights into real market needs. This approach has helped him identify genuine opportunities while avoiding common pitfalls that trap less experienced manufacturers. By focusing on consistent feedback patterns across different stakeholders, he's able to make more informed decisions about product development and market strategy. The result is a more grounded approach to building solutions that actually serve customer needs rather than chasing speculative market opportunities.

  • [19:28] Building Positive Industry Relationships - Warnas advocates for a consciously positive approach to industry engagement, particularly on social media platforms where negativity often dominates. He emphasizes the importance of supporting competitors' achievements and avoiding toxic interactions that can damage both personal and company reputations. This strategy has helped build genuine relationships across the industry, creating valuable networks and opportunities for collaboration. By focusing on constructive engagement and authentic relationship building, companies can create a stronger foundation for long-term success in the drone industry. The approach has proven particularly valuable in navigating complex industry dynamics and building trust with potential partners and customers.

  • [28:49] Understanding Real Market Dynamics vs Market Reports - Warnas warns against relying too heavily on market research reports that often present inflated projections about the drone industry's growth. He points out that many manufacturers make strategic mistakes by building products based on these reports rather than actual customer needs and market realities. The key insight is that while reports might suggest massive market opportunities, the practical reality often involves much smaller, more focused customer segments with specific needs. By maintaining close customer relationships and understanding actual use cases, companies can develop more targeted and successful product strategies. This approach helps avoid the common pitfall of creating over-featured products that miss the mark on actual customer requirements.

Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Previous Guests include: Matt Rowland, Jason Burnside

Check out our 3 most downloaded episodes:
]]> Tue, 19 Aug 2025 11:00:00 +0000 DroneSense DroneSense 1911 In this episode of DroneCast, host Joe Kearns sits down with Randall Warnas, CEO of Anzu Robotics, to discuss the rapidly evolving world of American drone manufacturing. Randall shares how Anzu bridges the gap between Chinese and domestic drone solutions, tackles complex geopolitical and cybersecurity challenges, and builds trust in a DJI-dominated market. This candid conversation delivers strategic insights for anyone invested in the future of secure, US-based drone technology. In this episode of DroneCast, host Joe Kearns sits down with Randall Warnas, CEO of Anzu Robotics, to discuss the rapidly evolving world of American drone manufacturing. Randall shares how Anzu bridges the gap between Chinese and domestic drone solutions, tackles complex geopolitical and cybersecurity challenges, and builds trust in a DJI-dominated market. This candid conversation delivers strategic insights for anyone invested in the future of secure, US-based drone technology. No No Flying Blind: The Untold Story of Public Safety's First Beyond Visual Line of Sight Waiver https://podcasts.fame.so/e/1n33x0yn-brandon-karr-dronesense Flying Blind: The Untold Story of Public Safety's First Beyond Visual Line of Sight Waiver 38 No No m1jp9ky1 In this episode of DroneCast, host Joe Kearns sits down with Brandon Karr, co-founder of Unmanned Tactical Group and a trailblazer in UAS operations for public safety. Brandon shares his journey building one of the nation’s first Drone as First Responder (DFR) programs, how he secured the first-ever BVLOS waiver for public safety, and offers actionable insights for agencies looking to launch or expand drone programs. In this feature-packed episode of DroneCast, host Joe Kearns interviews Brandon Karr, an internationally recognized expert in unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) for public safety. With a background in aviation dating back to 2006 and extensive experience in law enforcement, Brandon served as the chief pilot and UAS integrations coordinator for the Pearland Police Department. He was instrumental in launching one of the nation’s first Drone as First Responder (DFR) programs and successfully secured the first-ever FAA Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) waiver for public safety use.

As co-founder of the Unmanned Tactical Group, Brandon has helped over 600 agencies across the United States build and strengthen their drone programs. He is also an active committee member for Drone Responders and the Law Enforcement Drone Association (LEDA) and a frequent speaker at major UAS and public safety conferences.

This episode explores the evolution of DFR programs and the strategies needed to turn them from concept into reality. Brandon offers practical advice on navigating regulatory hurdles, securing funding, building internal support, and leveraging platforms like DroneSense for real-time coordination. He shares how to use data and performance metrics to demonstrate program value to stakeholders and describes how agencies can integrate drones with future technologies like terrestrial robots and submersibles.

Whether you’re launching a new drone initiative or scaling an existing one, this conversation is packed with expert-level guidance to help public safety leaders operationalize drones in ways that improve response times, enhance safety, and create long-term program sustainability.

What You'll Learn:

  • How to establish and scale a successful DFR program from concept to implementation
  • Why BVLOS authorization is essential and how to secure it
  • Funding strategies through grants, cross-agency collaboration, and community buy-in
  • How to manage resistance and gain support through education and data-driven success
  • Advantages of using the DroneSense platform for situational awareness and coordination
  • How networking boosts program growth and resilience
  • How detection tech reduces staffing pressure and operational costs
  • Future integration with land-based robots, underwater drones, and large-scale aerial platforms
  • The importance of continuous training and regulation updates for drone teams
  • Using metrics and outcomes to communicate value to decision-makers

Helpful Links:

Episode Highlights:

  • [00:08:52] The Power of DFR Programs - Brandon Karr explains how Drone as First Responder (DFR) programs enable drones to arrive at emergency scenes within 90 seconds of a 911 call, beating traditional first responders 70% of the time. The system's rapid response allows for real-time situational awareness before ground units arrive, enabling better resource allocation and response planning. DFR capabilities allow departments to disregard unnecessary responses in over 25% of calls, freeing up officers for higher-priority situations. The program uses strategically positioned drones with high-powered cameras to assess situations, determine injury severity, and guide appropriate emergency response levels. Through DFR implementation, departments can significantly reduce response times while enhancing officer and public safety.

  • [00:32:25] Strategic Funding for DFR Programs - Karr reveals that successful DFR funding requires breaking down departmental silos and demonstrating value across multiple divisions, including law enforcement, fire, and emergency management. He emphasizes leveraging diverse funding sources, including DOJ grants, FEMA grants, Walmart grants, and community partnerships. The key is understanding that DFR programs benefit multiple stakeholders, from reducing officer exposure to dangerous situations to improving emergency response times. Departments should focus on educating stakeholders about cost savings through reduced liability, faster scene clearance, and more efficient resource deployment. The initial investment in DFR technology typically pays for itself through operational efficiencies and reduced risk exposure.

  • [00:43:01] BVLOS Operations Transform Staffing Requirements - Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) authorization dramatically reduces the personnel needed to operate DFR programs, cutting staffing requirements from 10 people to just 5 for 24/7 coverage. This efficiency is achieved by eliminating the need for multiple visual observers and allowing a single teleoperator to manage drone operations remotely. The technology enables departments to expand their drone programs without proportionally increasing staff costs. Implementation of BVLOS capabilities helps demonstrate program success through increased flight hours and documented wins. This operational model makes DFR programs more feasible and sustainable for departments of all sizes.

  • [00:47:47] Building Success Through Community Networking - Karr emphasizes that networking within the drone community is crucial for program success, highlighting organizations like DRONERESPONDERS and the Law Enforcement Drone Association as valuable resources. He stresses the importance of learning from others' experiences to avoid common pitfalls and accelerate program development. The drone public safety community actively shares knowledge because they understand it directly impacts life-saving capabilities. Attending conferences and joining professional organizations provides access to best practices, emerging technologies, and supportive relationships. This collaborative approach helps agencies build more effective programs while avoiding costly mistakes and delays.


Episode Resources:

Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Previous Guests include: Matt Rowland, Jason Burnside

Check out our 3 most downloaded episodes:
]]> Tue, 05 Aug 2025 11:00:00 +0000 DroneSense DroneSense 3042 In this episode of DroneCast, host Joe Kearns sits down with Brandon Karr, co-founder of Unmanned Tactical Group and a trailblazer in UAS operations for public safety. Brandon shares his journey building one of the nation’s first Drone as First Responder (DFR) programs, how he secured the first-ever BVLOS waiver for public safety, and offers actionable insights for agencies looking to launch or expand drone programs. In this episode of DroneCast, host Joe Kearns sits down with Brandon Karr, co-founder of Unmanned Tactical Group and a trailblazer in UAS operations for public safety. Brandon shares his journey building one of the nation’s first Drone as First Responder (DFR) programs, how he secured the first-ever BVLOS waiver for public safety, and offers actionable insights for agencies looking to launch or expand drone programs. No No The COA Liability Trap: A Critical Warning for Public Safety Drone Programs with Greg Reverdiau https://podcasts.fame.so/e/rn74z918-greg-reverdiau-pilot-institutep2 The COA Liability Trap: A Critical Warning for Public Safety Drone Programs with Greg Reverdiau 37 No No k18yv4r0 In Part 2 of this impactful DroneCast conversation, host Joe Kearns continues the discussion with Greg Reverdiau, co-founder of the Pilot Institute, diving deeper into the human side of public safety drone operations. Greg unpacks the importance of building a proactive safety culture, training for beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) operations, and preparing teams for the integration of advanced sensors and future technologies. This episode equips public safety drone leaders with strategies to foster resilience, decision-making under pressure, and long-term program success in an evolving regulatory landscape. In Part 2 of this compelling DroneCast series, host Joe Kearns reconnects with Greg Reverdiau of the Pilot Institute to explore the next phase of public safety drone program development—one rooted in safety culture, human factors, and future-readiness.

Greg brings over two decades of experience as a flight instructor and holds a master’s degree in aviation human factors. As the co-founder of the Pilot Institute, he has helped thousands of drone pilots—from career changers to public safety professionals—transition into successful roles through structured, comprehensive training programs. Known for his deep expertise in FAA regulations, safety management systems, and instructional design, Greg’s approach centers on transforming drone operators into aviation professionals who understand both the technical and human elements of flight.

In this episode, Greg outlines how public safety agencies can move beyond technical training to develop pilots who think and act like aviators. He emphasizes the importance of a proactive safety culture that encourages incident reporting without fear, the necessity of fatigue and stress management, and the crucial role of community knowledge sharing.

The conversation delves into the nuances of tactical BVLOS operations, advanced sensor training, and the challenges of integrating drone-generated data into existing public safety systems. Greg also explains the evolving regulatory environment and how agencies can align with both Part 107 and Certificate of Authorization (COA) frameworks.

This episode offers a forward-looking perspective for agencies striving to enhance the effectiveness, safety, and adaptability of their drone programs—arming leaders with the insights they need to navigate the intersection of technology, people, and policy.

What You'll Learn:

  • How to build a proactive safety culture that encourages incident reporting without fear of punishment
  • Why tactical BVLOS operations require specialized training and risk mitigation
  • The “Aviator Mindset” and how it transforms basic operators into aviation professionals
  • The importance of fatigue management and stress control in high-stakes drone operations
  • How to incorporate advanced sensors and data into public safety workflows
  • Why standardized training is critical—even as drone autonomy increases
  • How to prepare for regulatory shifts and emerging technologies in the drone space
  • The differences between operating under Part 107 and COA—and why it matters
  • Strategies for continuous learning and leveraging shared knowledge across agencies
  • How to ensure seamless integration of drone operations into broader public safety infrastructure

Helpful Links:

Episode Highlights:

  • [13:00] Building a Non-Punitive Safety Culture
    Greg introduces the concept of a Safety Management System (SMS) that encourages open reporting of incidents without fear of punishment. This approach is critical for public safety drone programs because it allows teams to learn from mistakes and prevent future accidents. The key is creating an environment where operators feel safe reporting issues anonymously, focusing on understanding what happened rather than who was responsible. Departments should implement formal reporting systems, like the NASA ASRS program, to collect and share safety data across the industry. Making incident reporting non-punitive and sharing lessons learned helps build institutional knowledge and creates a stronger safety culture.

  • [26:45] Managing Fatigue in Drone Operations
    Greg emphasizes that fatigue management is especially critical in public safety drone operations where long incidents are common. Many operators falsely believe they can effectively function while tired, but research shows fatigue significantly impairs decision-making and reaction times. Departments need robust staffing plans and clear policies about maximum flight times and required rest periods. Setting strict operational limits and having backup pilots available helps maintain safety during extended missions. Regular training on fatigue awareness and its effects on performance is essential for all drone operators.

  • [35:00] The "Aviator Mindset" Framework 
    Greg shares his philosophy of developing drone operators into true "aviators" rather than just pilots. This mindset shift involves understanding the entire aviation ecosystem, including other aircraft, airspace considerations, and potential risks. Proper training should go beyond basic drone control to develop complete situational awareness and professional judgment. The approach helps operators make better decisions and maintain safety in complex environments. This comprehensive understanding is especially critical as drone operations become more autonomous and integrated into the national airspace.

  • [44:30] Evolution of BVLOS Operations 
    Greg discusses how beyond visual line of sight operations represent the next major advancement in public safety drone programs. While BVLOS capabilities will dramatically expand operational possibilities, they also introduce new risks that must be carefully managed through training and technology. Operators need enhanced situational awareness tools and a thorough understanding of aircraft detection and avoidance procedures. Departments should start preparing now by developing BVLOS training programs and safety protocols. The key is balancing the operational benefits with maintaining the highest safety standards.

Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Previous Guests include: Matt Rowland, Jason Burnside

Check out our 3 most downloaded episodes:
]]> Tue, 22 Jul 2025 11:00:00 +0000 DroneSense DroneSense 3875 In Part 2 of this impactful DroneCast conversation, host Joe Kearns continues the discussion with Greg Reverdiau, co-founder of the Pilot Institute, diving deeper into the human side of public safety drone operations. Greg unpacks the importance of building a proactive safety culture, training for beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) operations, and preparing teams for the integration of advanced sensors and future technologies. This episode equips public safety drone leaders with strategies to foster resilience, decision-making under pressure, and long-term program success in an evolving regulatory landscape. In Part 2 of this impactful DroneCast conversation, host Joe Kearns continues the discussion with Greg Reverdiau, co-founder of the Pilot Institute, diving deeper into the human side of public safety drone operations. Greg unpacks the importance of building a proactive safety culture, training for beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) operations, and preparing teams for the integration of advanced sensors and future technologies. This episode equips public safety drone leaders with strategies to foster resilience, decision-making under pressure, and long-term program success in an evolving regulatory landscape. No No The Certificate to Be Dangerous: Why Part 107 Isn't Enough with Greg Reverdiau https://podcasts.fame.so/e/vnwpxk68-greg-reverdiau-part1 The Certificate to Be Dangerous: Why Part 107 Isn't Enough with Greg Reverdiau 36 No No 81x2lnp1 In Part 1 of this eye-opening DroneCast conversation, host Joe Kearns sits down with Greg Reverdiau, co-founder of the Pilot Institute and veteran aviation expert, to explore the future of drone training in public safety. Moving beyond basic Part 107 certification, Greg shares practical insights into building confident, capable drone teams through structured programs, NIST-based proficiency standards, and scenario-based learning. Whether you're starting a program or refining existing training, this episode offers actionable guidance to raise your team's readiness and performance. In Part 1 of this insightful DroneCast series, host Joe Kearns speaks with Greg Reverdiau, co-founder of the Pilot Institute and former program chair at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, to examine how drone training in public safety must evolve beyond foundational certification.

Greg brings decades of experience in both manned and unmanned aviation to the discussion, highlighting the critical need for standardized, scenario-based, and platform-specific training frameworks. He explains why relying solely on Part 107 certification leaves public safety drone teams underprepared for the demands of real-world operations.

The conversation covers the role of NIST standards in objectively measuring pilot proficiency, the importance of integrating Crew Resource Management (CRM) and Aeronautical Decision Making (ADM), and how to apply aviation best practices to improve safety and operational outcomes. Greg also discusses emerging state-level training standards that reflect the unique demands of different regions.

This first installment sets the stage for a deeper dive into program development and operational strategy in Part 2, offering foundational strategies for any agency looking to move from basic compliance to operational excellence.

What You'll Learn:

  • Why Part 107 is only the starting point for public safety drone teams
  • How to implement NIST standards to assess pilot proficiency
  • The value of platform-specific training and regular skill checks
  • How to apply CRM and ADM principles from manned aviation
  • Why checklist protocols and emergency planning are essential
  • How scenario-based training prepares teams for real-world missions
  • What state-led training initiatives mean for regional drone programs

Helpful Links:


Episode Highlights:

  • [06:45] The Foundation of Drone Training
    Greg Reverdiau emphasizes that education must be the first priority for any public safety drone program, starting with comprehensive ground training before touching any equipment. He explains that proper initial training shapes how operators will function throughout their careers and helps prevent costly mistakes in the public eye. Public safety agencies face unique regulatory requirements and heightened scrutiny, making thorough training essential for managing liability and ensuring operational success. Departments should begin with ground training on regulations and COA requirements, then progress to hands-on flight instruction. Training programs should be structured to build both technical competency and regulatory compliance while fostering a culture of continuous learning.

  • [12:09] Beyond Part 107
    Greg reveals that while the Part 107 certificate provides basic knowledge, it's just the theoretical foundation and doesn't ensure operational competency. He emphasizes that public safety agencies need role-specific training tailored to their unique missions, whether SWAT operations or firefighting. The NIST standards offer a standardized way to measure progress and proficiency across departments through repeatable exercises. Agencies should implement platform-specific training for each drone model they operate, similar to manned aviation checkout procedures. Regular proficiency checks should be conducted at least annually since drone operation skills can deteriorate quickly without consistent practice.

  • [27:17] Scenario-Based Training Excellence
    Greg advocates for turning real-world incidents into training scenarios to prepare pilots for actual operations. This approach allows departments to learn from both successes and failures that have occurred in the field, creating more relevant and engaging training experiences. He stresses the importance of implementing proper checklist procedures, especially for complex drone systems that require assembly or special handling. Two-person verification systems help prevent accidents and ensure all safety protocols are followed correctly. This comprehensive approach to scenario training helps build both technical skills and operational judgment.

  • [29:42] Measuring True Proficiency
    Greg explains that flight hours alone don't necessarily indicate pilot competency, as the quality of experience matters more than quantity. He draws parallels to manned aviation, where diverse operational experience is more valuable than simply accumulating basic flight time. The NIST standards provide objective benchmarks for measuring actual pilot proficiency through specific skill demonstrations. This standardized approach allows departments to evaluate pilots based on demonstrated capabilities rather than just time logged. The focus should be on achieving competency in required skills, recognizing that different pilots may progress at different rates.

Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Previous Guests include: Matt Rowland, Jason Burnside

Check out our 3 most downloaded episodes:
]]> Tue, 08 Jul 2025 11:00:00 +0000 DroneSense DroneSense 1941 In Part 1 of this eye-opening DroneCast conversation, host Joe Kearns sits down with Greg Reverdiau, co-founder of the Pilot Institute and veteran aviation expert, to explore the future of drone training in public safety. Moving beyond basic Part 107 certification, Greg shares practical insights into building confident, capable drone teams through structured programs, NIST-based proficiency standards, and scenario-based learning. Whether you're starting a program or refining existing training, this episode offers actionable guidance to raise your team's readiness and performance. In Part 1 of this eye-opening DroneCast conversation, host Joe Kearns sits down with Greg Reverdiau, co-founder of the Pilot Institute and veteran aviation expert, to explore the future of drone training in public safety. Moving beyond basic Part 107 certification, Greg shares practical insights into building confident, capable drone teams through structured programs, NIST-based proficiency standards, and scenario-based learning. Whether you're starting a program or refining existing training, this episode offers actionable guidance to raise your team's readiness and performance. No No Aim Small, Miss Small: An Ex-Cop's Guide to Mastering Drone Crash Reconstruction https://podcasts.fame.so/e/v8wpxm5n-aim-small-miss-small-an-ex-cop-s-guide-to-mastering-drone-crash-reconstruction Aim Small, Miss Small: An Ex-Cop's Guide to Mastering Drone Crash Reconstruction 35 No No 80x2l4x0 In this engaging episode of DroneCast, host Joe Kearns sits down with Bobby Jason Mullinax of Frontier Precision Unmanned to explore how drone technology is transforming crash reconstruction and investigative operations in law enforcement. With over 15 years of public safety experience, Bobby Jason Mullinax shares practical approaches for drone integration, overcoming misconceptions, and establishing evidentiary credibility. Whether you're building a new program or enhancing an existing one, this episode offers strategic insights to elevate drone use in public safety.
In this compelling episode of DroneCast, Joe Kearns III talks with Bobby Jason Mullinax—a seasoned law enforcement professional and current UAS Sales and Training Specialist at Frontier Precision Unmanned—about how drones are reshaping crash reconstruction and investigative processes in law enforcement.

Drawing from his extensive background as a crash reconstruction instructor at the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy, Bobby Jason Mullinax discusses proven methods for integrating drones into public safety workflows. The conversation focuses on enhancing operational efficiency, improving evidentiary accuracy, and building internal and external support for drone initiatives.

You will learn how to apply the “DRONE” framework (Decide, Regulations, Operations, Needs, Evidence) to structure programs effectively, navigate internal resistance through education, and use measurable reference points to validate drone-captured data. Bobby Jason Mullinax also emphasizes the value of scenario-based training and the importance of transparency when engaging with the community and legal stakeholders.

This episode delivers expert guidance for law enforcement professionals aiming to advance their drone capabilities and strengthen investigative outcomes through thoughtful program design and execution.

What You'll Learn:

  • How to implement the "DRONE" method for strategic and structured program development (Decide, Regulations, Operations, Needs, Evidence)
  • Why relative accuracy is essential in crash reconstruction—and how to defend it in legal settings
  • How to engage and educate prosecutors, command staff, and other key stakeholders
  • The importance of using measurable reference objects to validate scene documentation
  • How to build and scale effective scenario-based training for public safety drone teams
  • Techniques for aligning drone operations with real-world investigative needs
  • The role of interagency collaboration in expanding drone impact
  • Why clear, transparent communication with the public fosters trust and long-term program support

Helpful Links:

Episode Highlights:

  • [08:41] Drone Advantages in Crash Scene Documentation
    The drone's resilience to environmental conditions provides a significant advantage over human investigators, particularly in extreme weather. In hot and humid conditions like South Carolina summers, drones maintain consistent performance while human investigators fatigue quickly. The drone captures everything in its field of view, regardless of whether investigators initially recognize its importance, preventing missed evidence due to human error. This comprehensive data collection allows for faster roadway reopening and improved investigator safety by keeping them out of active traffic lanes. The technology's endurance and thorough documentation capabilities make it an invaluable tool for crash reconstruction efforts.

  • [19:38] The DRONE Method for Program Implementation
    Bobby J Mullinax introduces the DRONE framework for systematically implementing drone programs in law enforcement: Decide mission scope, Review regulations, Operations planning, Needs assessment, and Evidence management. This structured approach helps agencies avoid common pitfalls and ensures comprehensive program development. The framework starts with defining specific use cases like crash reconstruction or search and rescue, then addresses regulatory compliance and operational readiness. By following this method, departments can create clear implementation strategies grounded in agency objectives and stakeholder needs.

  • [12:27] Getting Started with Drone Programs
    Agencies can begin using drone technology with straightforward equipment and simple workflows while still achieving significant gains in investigative efficiency and documentation quality. While advanced systems offer enhanced capabilities, even basic drone setups enable better scene capture and reduce reliance on traditional, more labor-intensive methods. Starting with core capabilities allows departments to focus on training, data quality, and integration into existing workflows, establishing a strong operational foundation before expanding further. This approach emphasizes performance, safety, and evidentiary value from the outset.

  • [24:22] Building Public Trust Through Transparency
    Departments can address public concerns about drone usage through proactive transparency measures and clear communication about program objectives. Sharing flight logs and program details publicly helps build community trust and understanding. This approach has improved public relations for many agencies, turning potential resistance into support. Demonstrating the public safety benefits while maintaining operational transparency helps agencies gain community acceptance. The key is to implement transparency measures from the start rather than waiting for public concerns to arise.

Episode Resources:

Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Previous Guests include: Matt Rowland, Jason Burnside

Check out our 3 most downloaded episodes:
]]> Tue, 24 Jun 2025 11:00:00 +0000 DroneSense DroneSense 1922 In this engaging episode of DroneCast, host Joe Kearns sits down with Bobby Jason Mullinax of Frontier Precision Unmanned to explore how drone technology is transforming crash reconstruction and investigative operations in law enforcement. With over 15 years of public safety experience, Bobby Jason Mullinax shares practical approaches for drone integration, overcoming misconceptions, and establishing evidentiary credibility. Whether you're building a new program or enhancing an existing one, this episode offers strategic insights to elevate drone use in public safety. In this engaging episode of DroneCast, host Joe Kearns sits down with Bobby Jason Mullinax of Frontier Precision Unmanned to explore how drone technology is transforming crash reconstruction and investigative operations in law enforcement. With over 15 years of public safety experience, Bobby Jason Mullinax shares practical approaches for drone integration, overcoming misconceptions, and establishing evidentiary credibility. Whether you're building a new program or enhancing an existing one, this episode offers strategic insights to elevate drone use in public safety. No No Restricted Airspace, Unrestricted Innovation: Drone Ops in DC's Shadow with Jason Cokinos https://podcasts.fame.so/e/1n2rzz5n-jason-cokinos-part2 Restricted Airspace, Unrestricted Innovation: Drone Ops in DC's Shadow with Jason Cokinos 34 No No 2199vv31 In this insightful episode of DroneCast, host Joe Kearns sits down with Jason Cokinos of the Montgomery County Police Department to explore the challenges and innovations of using drones as first responders in one of the nation’s most complex restricted airspaces near Washington, DC. They discuss how the department navigates regulatory hurdles, builds essential partnerships with federal agencies, and transitions to secure drone technologies—all while developing robust training programs and operational protocols. This episode offers practical guidance for public safety agencies aiming to launch or scale drone-as-first-responder programs under demanding conditions. In this compelling DroneCast episode, Joe Kearns dives deep with Montgomery County’s Jason Cokinos to uncover the operational complexities of integrating drone technology within restricted airspace near Washington DC. Montgomery County Police Department, serving over 1.1 million residents, faces unique challenges without traditional air support, prompting them to innovate with drone-first response strategies.

Jason shares how they cultivated strong federal stakeholder relationships to secure approval and support, transitioned away from Chinese-made drones for security reasons, and developed scenario-based training to prepare operators for real-world situations. The conversation highlights how sustainable drone programs rely on reliable internet infrastructure, standardized safety checklists, and cross-agency collaboration between police and fire departments. Looking forward, Jason and Joe discuss emerging opportunities for tactical drone deliveries and the continued evolution of drone operations in public safety.

This episode provides valuable lessons for agencies operating in complex environments and those seeking to build resilient, scalable drone programs that prioritize safety, transparency, and operational excellence.

What You'll Learn:

  • How to effectively navigate FAA and federal agency regulations to operate drones in restricted airspace
  • Strategies for building and maintaining critical relationships with federal stakeholders
  • Key considerations and frameworks for transitioning from foreign-made drones to trusted domestic alternatives
  • Developing comprehensive, scenario-based training programs to ensure operational readiness
  • Best practices for scaling drone programs from decentralized units to centralized operations
  • The importance of checklist-driven protocols and safety procedures for sustainable program management
  • Leveraging interagency partnerships between law enforcement and fire departments to enhance drone utility
  • Insights into future advancements, such as tactical delivery applications in law enforcement drone use

Helpful Links:

Episode Highlights:

  • [00:01] Building Buy-In for Drone Programs
    Joe Kearns emphasizes the critical importance of approaching drone program development like a sales process, focusing on relationship-building and proving the concept. Law enforcement agencies often struggle with stakeholder buy-in due to a traditional "we know best" mindset. The key is to actively sell successes and demonstrate value to all stakeholders, from department leadership to community members. Establishing partnerships with fire departments and other agencies creates stronger community support and shared resources. Building these relationships leads to sustained program growth and increased operational capabilities.

  • [07:28] Navigating Restricted Airspace Operations
    Operating in DC's flight restricted zone requires careful coordination with multiple federal agencies and strict adherence to special protocols. The Montgomery County program demonstrates how to build trust through transparency and regular communication with airspace stakeholders. They've achieved success by inviting inspections, sharing drone locations via DroneSense, and maintaining professional operations. Understanding when to pause operations during sensitive events like State of the Union addresses shows operational maturity. Their approach has enabled nearly 2,000 successful flights in restricted airspace while maintaining security requirements.

  • [18:27] Developing Elite Drone Operators
    The program implements rigorous screening and training processes to identify and develop qualified drone operators. Candidates undergo stress tests, including simulated pursuit scenarios, to evaluate their decision-making and communication skills. Monthly training sessions combine classroom instruction with extensive hands-on flight practice using real-world scenarios. The program maintains small class sizes of 5-6 operators to ensure adequate flight time and personalized instruction. This comprehensive approach creates resilient, technically proficient operators who can handle both routine and high-stress situations effectively.

  • [12:43] Strategic Infrastructure Planning
    For successful drone operations, establishing reliable infrastructure is crucial, particularly regarding internet connectivity and facility placement. Hard-wired Ethernet connections at county facilities provide the most reliable connection for drone operations. The program strategically locates drone docks at police and fire stations to maximize coverage of high-priority areas. Planning for 10-12 dock sites with multiple drones per location enables comprehensive coverage across dense urban areas. This infrastructure strategy allows for efficient scaling while maintaining operational reliability.

Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Previous Guests include: Matt Rowland, Jason Burnside

Check out our 3 most downloaded episodes:
]]> Tue, 10 Jun 2025 11:00:00 +0000 John McLeod John McLeod 1561 In this insightful episode of DroneCast, host Joe Kearns sits down with Jason Cokinos of the Montgomery County Police Department to explore the challenges and innovations of using drones as first responders in one of the nation’s most complex restricted airspaces near Washington, DC. They discuss how the department navigates regulatory hurdles, builds essential partnerships with federal agencies, and transitions to secure drone technologies—all while developing robust training programs and operational protocols. This episode offers practical guidance for public safety agencies aiming to launch or scale drone-as-first-responder programs under demanding conditions. In this insightful episode of DroneCast, host Joe Kearns sits down with Jason Cokinos of the Montgomery County Police Department to explore the challenges and innovations of using drones as first responders in one of the nation’s most complex restricted airspaces near Washington, DC. They discuss how the department navigates regulatory hurdles, builds essential partnerships with federal agencies, and transitions to secure drone technologies—all while developing robust training programs and operational protocols. This episode offers practical guidance for public safety agencies aiming to launch or scale drone-as-first-responder programs under demanding conditions. No No Drone Saves Lives: Hostage Standoff & The Future of Police Work with Jason Cokinos https://podcasts.fame.so/e/182ryp18-jason-cokinos-part1 Drone Saves Lives: Hostage Standoff & The Future of Police Work with Jason Cokinos 33 No No 2099jmp0 In this powerful episode of DroneCast, host Joe Kearns sits down with Jason Cokinos of Montgomery County Police Department to discuss how drones are transforming public safety in real time. From reducing response times to under two minutes to helping prevent the use of deadly force, this conversation highlights how innovative drone programs are reshaping traditional law enforcement. Jason shares firsthand success stories—including a high-stakes hostage situation resolved through drone surveillance—and outlines the strategies behind their Drone as First Responder model. Whether you're managing a drone program or exploring ways to modernize emergency response, this episode offers practical insights into using drone technology to enhance safety, transparency, and effectiveness in the field. In this compelling episode of DroneCast, host Joe Kearns talks with Jason Cokinos, a forward-thinking leader from the Montgomery County Police Department, about how drones are becoming an essential tool for law enforcement. This episode offers a deep dive into how Montgomery County went from having no aerial support to operating a fully integrated, life-saving drone program that’s changing how officers respond to emergencies.

Jason discusses how the department achieved an incredible 71% first-on-scene rate using their Drone as First Responder model, helping reduce response times from over 10 minutes to under two. He shares impactful stories—including a dramatic hostage situation in which drone surveillance prevented an unnecessary SWAT breach—showcasing how drones are not only improving response capabilities but also saving lives and minimizing risks.

Listeners will gain insight into how Montgomery County built community trust through transparency, integrated drone operations with Live 911, and leveraged drones to navigate staffing shortages. The episode also touches on how multi-agency collaboration, real-time aerial intelligence, and advanced drone strategies are supporting safer, smarter law enforcement tactics.

Whether you're a public safety professional, drone operator, or policymaker, this episode delivers actionable takeaways on how to implement a scalable, trusted drone program that truly serves the community. Montgomery County’s model offers a roadmap for departments nationwide looking to elevate their emergency response through drone technology.

What You'll Learn:

  • How Montgomery County built an effective drone program from the ground up—without traditional air support
  • The game-changing impact of Drone as First Responder (DFR) programs on response times and officer safety
  • Strategies to gain community trust and maintain transparency while deploying drones in urban environments
  • How real-time drone surveillance is being used to de-escalate high-risk situations and avoid the use of deadly force
  • The benefits of integrating Live 911 data with drone operations to enhance situational awareness
  • How agencies are using drones to overcome staffing shortages and maximize limited resources
  • The critical role of multi-agency collaboration in scaling and sustaining drone programs
  • Proven tactics for using drone footage to support successful prosecutions and improve tactical outcomes

Helpful Links:

Episode Highlights:

  • [07:10] Leveraging Drones in High-Stakes Tactical Operations
    Joe Kearns shares how drone technology prevented a potential deadly force situation during a hostage crisis by providing real-time visual intelligence. The drone positioned at the 14th floor of a high-rise allowed command to accurately assess that the suspect was only yelling on the phone with negotiators, rather than presenting an immediate threat. This critical insight prevented an unnecessary emergency breach by the SWAT team, demonstrating how aerial perspective can de-escalate potentially dangerous situations. The successful implementation led to widespread adoption, with SWAT teams now utilizing drones on every tactical operation. This integration has transformed their approach to high-risk scenarios, enhancing officer safety while enabling more informed decision-making.

  • [10:03] Building Community Trust Through Transparency
    The Montgomery County PD developed a comprehensive approach to gaining public support for their drone program through extensive community engagement. They conducted town halls and listening tours to address concerns about surveillance and privacy, establishing clear boundaries and policies based on community input. Their commitment to transparency included restrictions on facial recognition, audio interception, and monitoring of peaceful protests. The department leverages DroneSense flight mapping and public dashboards to maintain complete operational transparency. This approach has led to increasing community comfort with drone operations, with some residents now requesting expanded services.

  • [20:21] Revolutionizing Response Times with Live 911 Integration
    The department's drone program achieves rapid response by integrating with Live 911, allowing immediate deployment upon initial emergency calls. This system enables drone operators to respond before the traditional two-minute call processing time, often arriving on scene as incidents are still unfolding. Their rapid response capabilities have significantly increased criminal apprehensions in their coverage areas, as demonstrated by a successful assault case where drone footage led to a seven-year conviction. By maintaining a 71% first-on-scene rate and handling 15% of calls without requiring officer response, the program effectively addresses staffing shortages while improving service delivery.

  • [16:05] Cross-Agency Collaboration Through Unified Drone Operations
    The police department consolidated separate agency drone programs into a unified operation, enhancing emergency response capabilities across multiple scenarios. This integration enables seamless support for various missions, from tornado damage assessment to fire department operations, using DroneSense's MagicLink feature to share real-time feeds with relevant stakeholders. The collaborative approach maximizes resource efficiency while providing specialized support for tactical operations, search and rescue missions, and routine patrol activities. Their success demonstrates how centralized drone operations can benefit multiple agencies while maintaining operational flexibility.

Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Previous Guests include: Matt Rowland, Jason Burnside

Check out our 3 most downloaded episodes:
]]> Tue, 27 May 2025 11:00:00 +0000 John McLeod John McLeod 1541 In this powerful episode of DroneCast, host Joe Kearns sits down with Jason Cokinos of Montgomery County Police Department to discuss how drones are transforming public safety in real time. From reducing response times to under two minutes to helping prevent the use of deadly force, this conversation highlights how innovative drone programs are reshaping traditional law enforcement. Jason shares firsthand success stories—including a high-stakes hostage situation resolved through drone surveillance—and outlines the strategies behind their Drone as First Responder model. Whether you're managing a drone program or exploring ways to modernize emergency response, this episode offers practical insights into using drone technology to enhance safety, transparency, and effectiveness in the field. In this powerful episode of DroneCast, host Joe Kearns sits down with Jason Cokinos of Montgomery County Police Department to discuss how drones are transforming public safety in real time. From reducing response times to under two minutes to helping prevent the use of deadly force, this conversation highlights how innovative drone programs are reshaping traditional law enforcement. Jason shares firsthand success stories—including a high-stakes hostage situation resolved through drone surveillance—and outlines the strategies behind their Drone as First Responder model. Whether you're managing a drone program or exploring ways to modernize emergency response, this episode offers practical insights into using drone technology to enhance safety, transparency, and effectiveness in the field. No No From the Streets to the Skies: Amelia Frasure on Drones in Law Enforcement https://podcasts.fame.so/e/lnqwy30n-amelia-frasure-skydio From the Streets to the Skies: Amelia Frasure on Drones in Law Enforcement 32 No No 81nv5241 Join host Joe Kearns as he sits down with Amelia Frasure, Solutions Engineer at Skydio, the leading U.S. drone manufacturer and world leader in autonomous flight. Amelia, formerly the UAS Program Manager for the Greenville Police Department and an instructor at the Public Safety UAS Institute, shares expert insights on building and managing effective drone programs in public safety. In this episode, Frasure discusses program development, team training, and overcoming operational challenges in law enforcement drone operations. The conversation also covers practical strategies for securing funding, ensuring compliance, and maintaining operational excellence. Whether you’re launching a new UAS program or optimizing an existing one, this episode offers valuable insights for public safety professionals, drone program managers, and law enforcement leaders looking to maximize the impact of unmanned aircraft technology.
In this episode of DroneCast, host Joe Kearns sits down with Amelia Frasure, Solutions Engineer at Skydio, the leading U.S. drone manufacturer and world leader in autonomous flight. Formerly the UAS Program Manager at the Greenville Police Department and an instructor at the Public Safety UAS Institute, Amelia shares her journey from law enforcement officer to drone program leader, highlighting how drones have evolved from recreational gadgets to essential public safety tools. She provides expert insights on building and managing effective UAS programs, covering key topics such as securing department support, training requirements, airspace management, and mission planning. Additionally, Amelia discusses the challenges of recruiting and retaining skilled drone operators, maintaining pilot proficiency, and adapting to the rapidly changing landscape of drone technology.

With extensive experience in law enforcement and drone operations, Amelia specializes in training agencies to implement successful UAS programs, particularly in search and rescue missions. She explores the future of public safety drone integration, highlighting the potential of Drone as First Responder (DFR) programs and strategies for smaller agencies to scale their operations. Throughout the conversation, she emphasizes the importance of securing funding, demonstrating program value through data collection, and fostering a strong community within the public safety drone sector. Her practical, hands-on approach and dedication to training continue to shape the future of emergency response drone programs nationwide.

What You'll Learn:

  • How to launch a successful UAS program from the ground up in a law enforcement setting
  • Why leadership buy-in is essential for long-term drone program sustainability
  • Best practices for consistent, scenario-based training to maintain pilot proficiency
  • How to collect and present data to justify program expansion and secure funding
  • The value of specialized drone teams (e.g., search and rescue, tactical support) over generalized use
  • Why drone piloting is considered a perishable skill—and how to stay mission-ready
  • Strategies for integrating Drone as First Responder (DFR) programs, even in small agencies
  • How to build internal support and trust for drone programs within police departments
  • Tips for navigating FAA guidelines, airspace restrictions, and operational documentation
  • The role of community engagement and public safety storytelling in program success

Helpful Links:


Episode Highlights:

  • [05:34] Establishing Strong Foundations for UAS Programs – A successful drone program requires more than just equipment. Amelia stresses the importance of understanding FAA guidelines, airspace regulations, and proper documentation, even for emergency operations. Clear training protocols and operational guidelines are essential from the start. Department-wide support, especially from leadership, ensures long-term success and credibility within both the department and the community.

  • [11:55] Implementing Effective Training Standards – Consistent training is key to maintaining skilled drone operators. Amelia recommends monthly 5-8 hour sessions combining scenario-based exercises with regulation and technology updates. Since drone piloting is a perishable skill, regular practice is crucial. Proper documentation of training also ensures accountability and compliance, keeping operators prepared for real-world missions.

  • [26:31] Data-Driven Program Evaluation – Demonstrating a drone program’s value requires strategic data collection. Amelia advises tracking response times, successful rescues, and instances where drones reduced officer risk. Presenting this data to leadership helps secure funding and support. Highlighting missed opportunities due to equipment gaps also strengthens the case for program expansion, proving its impact on safety and efficiency.

  • [34:32] Future-Proofing UAS Programs – Specialization is key to advancing public safety drone programs. Amelia suggests creating dedicated teams for tactical missions, search and rescue, and patrol support instead of a general-use approach. This allows operators to refine expertise in key areas while ensuring full operational coverage. Structuring programs this way helps agencies scale effectively and adapt to evolving technology and mission needs.

Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Previous Guests include: Matt Rowland, Jason Burnside

Check out our 3 most downloaded episodes:
]]> Tue, 13 May 2025 11:00:00 +0000 John McLeod John McLeod 2433 Join host Joe Kearns as he sits down with Amelia Frasure, Solutions Engineer at Skydio, the leading U.S. drone manufacturer and world leader in autonomous flight. Amelia, formerly the UAS Program Manager for the Greenville Police Department and an instructor at the Public Safety UAS Institute, shares expert insights on building and managing effective drone programs in public safety. In this episode, Frasure discusses program development, team training, and overcoming operational challenges in law enforcement drone operations. The conversation also covers practical strategies for securing funding, ensuring compliance, and maintaining operational excellence. Whether you’re launching a new UAS program or optimizing an existing one, this episode offers valuable insights for public safety professionals, drone program managers, and law enforcement leaders looking to maximize the impact of unmanned aircraft technology. Join host Joe Kearns as he sits down with Amelia Frasure, Solutions Engineer at Skydio, the leading U.S. drone manufacturer and world leader in autonomous flight. Amelia, formerly the UAS Program Manager for the Greenville Police Department and an instructor at the Public Safety UAS Institute, shares expert insights on building and managing effective drone programs in public safety. In this episode, Frasure discusses program development, team training, and overcoming operational challenges in law enforcement drone operations. The conversation also covers practical strategies for securing funding, ensuring compliance, and maintaining operational excellence. Whether you’re launching a new UAS program or optimizing an existing one, this episode offers valuable insights for public safety professionals, drone program managers, and law enforcement leaders looking to maximize the impact of unmanned aircraft technology. No No Same Direction, Different Flight Paths: One Year of Global Lessons from Public Safety UAS https://podcasts.fame.so/e/28x0vvy8-dronecast-first-anniversary Same Direction, Different Flight Paths: One Year of Global Lessons from Public Safety UAS 31 No No 60m6zz91 Join hosts John McLeod and Joe Kearns as they reflect on a milestone year for DroneCast, highlighting the evolution of the podcast and the public safety drone landscape. From its humble beginnings to reaching tens of thousands of listeners, this special mini-episode revisits key conversations that have shaped the way agencies approach drone operations. One year of stories, shared struggles, and breakthrough insights from agencies worldwide shaping the future of drone-powered public safety. John and Joe discuss how drone programs have grown from isolated initiatives to integrated, community-wide solutions—fueled by cross-agency collaboration, evolving technology, and a shared commitment to innovation. Whether you're a drone operator, program manager, or policymaker, this episode offers valuable takeaways on the past, present, and future of drones in public safety. In this special year-in-review episode of DroneCast, hosts John McLeod and Joe Kearns take a moment to look back on an incredible year of growth—for both the podcast and the public safety drone community. What started as a niche platform for industry professionals has grown into a widely respected resource for tens of thousands of listeners across the country. Reflecting on the conversations, challenges, and breakthroughs that defined the past year, John and Joe explore how drone programs have evolved from siloed operations to essential, collaborative tools in emergency response.

One year of stories, shared struggles, and breakthrough insights from agencies worldwide shaping the future of drone-powered public safety.

The discussion touches on the increasing importance of inter-agency coordination, the shift in public perception of drones, and how programs are navigating complex regulatory landscapes to deliver faster, smarter, and safer results. They highlight key trends such as shared airspace management, real-time data sharing, and the role of public-private partnerships in scaling drone operations.

From comparing how the U.S. and U.K. are deploying drones to understanding how cities are integrating drones across departments, the episode underscores a growing movement: one where drones are no longer experimental, but mission-critical. With insights from a year’s worth of expert interviews, field-tested case studies, and policy discussions, this episode offers a thoughtful recap and a forward-looking perspective for anyone involved in the future of public safety drone programs.

Helpful Links:

Episode Highlights:

  • [05:24] Building a Public Safety Drone Program - Beyond the Basics
    Starting a public safety drone program requires understanding it's not a simple plug-and-play solution, but rather a complex tapestry of training, policy, compliance, and technology components. Agencies need to develop comprehensive frameworks that address everything from operational procedures to data management and regulatory requirements. The key challenge is making these sophisticated programs more accessible and turnkey for departments looking to implement drone technology. Success requires partnering with established programs and technology providers to create standardized approaches that maintain effectiveness while reducing complexity. Looking at successful implementations across the US shows that life-saving drone capabilities are most effectively deployed when programs build on proven frameworks rather than starting from scratch

  • [10:03] Cross-Agency Collaboration Model for Drone Programs
    The evolution of drone programs has moved from individual department initiatives to collaborative, city-wide operations that maximize resources and impact. Modern drone programs succeed by breaking down silos between police, fire, EMS, and other municipal departments to create shared infrastructure and expertise. Cross-department collaboration allows agencies to pool budgets, expand pilot resources, and create more sustainable programs. The model extends to sharing drone capabilities with public utilities, GIS departments, and even commercial partners during disaster response. This collaborative approach creates more resilient programs while expanding the positive impact of drone technology across communities.

  • [13:29] Building Community Through Shared Knowledge
    The drone industry's rapid evolution makes it critical for agencies to learn from each other rather than reinventing solutions independently. Successful programs actively participate in knowledge sharing networks, learning from others' experiences in training, policy development, and technology implementation. The community approach helps agencies avoid common pitfalls while accelerating their program development through proven best practices. Creating these information sharing networks has become a cornerstone of program success, allowing agencies to build on collective experience. This collaborative mindset extends to technology platforms, with interoperability becoming increasingly important for program efficiency and effectiveness.

Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Previous Guests include: Matt Rowland, Jason Burnside

Check out our 3 most downloaded episodes:
]]> Tue, 06 May 2025 11:00:00 +0000 John McLeod John McLeod 1008 Join hosts John McLeod and Joe Kearns as they reflect on a milestone year for DroneCast, highlighting the evolution of the podcast and the public safety drone landscape. From its humble beginnings to reaching tens of thousands of listeners, this special mini-episode revisits key conversations that have shaped the way agencies approach drone operations. One year of stories, shared struggles, and breakthrough insights from agencies worldwide shaping the future of drone-powered public safety. John and Joe discuss how drone programs have grown from isolated initiatives to integrated, community-wide solutions—fueled by cross-agency collaboration, evolving technology, and a shared commitment to innovation. Whether you're a drone operator, program manager, or policymaker, this episode offers valuable takeaways on the past, present, and future of drones in public safety. Join hosts John McLeod and Joe Kearns as they reflect on a milestone year for DroneCast, highlighting the evolution of the podcast and the public safety drone landscape. From its humble beginnings to reaching tens of thousands of listeners, this special mini-episode revisits key conversations that have shaped the way agencies approach drone operations. One year of stories, shared struggles, and breakthrough insights from agencies worldwide shaping the future of drone-powered public safety. John and Joe discuss how drone programs have grown from isolated initiatives to integrated, community-wide solutions—fueled by cross-agency collaboration, evolving technology, and a shared commitment to innovation. Whether you're a drone operator, program manager, or policymaker, this episode offers valuable takeaways on the past, present, and future of drones in public safety. No No 11 Months to 1 Week: Charles Werner on Empowering DFR with New Breakthrough FAA COA Rules https://podcasts.fame.so/e/5nzx6r2n-charles-werner-droneresponders 11 Months to 1 Week: Charles Werner on Empowering DFR with New Breakthrough FAA COA Rules 30 No No 80z724p1 Join host Joe Kearns as he sits down with Charles Werner, Aviation Technology Adviser for the Virginia Department of Aviation, Director of Drone Responders, and an experienced storm chaser. With over four decades of experience in emergency services, aviation, and severe weather response, Charles shares groundbreaking insights into the FAA’s recent regulatory changes that are transforming public safety drone operations. In this episode, Werner discusses the streamlined DFR COA process, the rapid shift from 11-month to one-week drone program approvals, and how simplified regulations are helping agencies launch and scale their UAS programs faster. Whether you’re a public safety professional, drone program manager, or policymaker, this episode offers vital updates, practical strategies, and a forward-looking perspective on the future of public safety drone operations. In this episode of DroneCast, host Joe Kearns sits down with Charles Werner, Aviation Technology Adviser for the Virginia Department of Aviation, Director of Drone Responders, and an experienced storm chaser. A seasoned leader with extensive expertise in emergency services, unmanned aerial systems, and severe weather response, Werner shares firsthand insights into the revolutionary FAA regulatory changes that are accelerating public safety drone deployments. He explains how the new DFR (Drone as First Responder) COA process has drastically reduced approval timelines from 11 months to just one week, reshaping the speed and efficiency of public safety operations. Werner also discusses the simplified four-document submission process, the transition from COA to COWA (Certificate of Waiver and Authorization), and the operational impacts of allowing departments to fly drones at 200 feet using only ADS-B receivers.

The conversation delves into the evolution of public safety drones from "toys" to mission-critical tools, with drones now resolving up to 25% of calls before ground units even arrive. Werner provides a glimpse into the future of drone operations, exploring advancements such as one-to-many aircraft control, AI-driven search capabilities, and the new opportunities created by the Part 107 DFR waiver for volunteer and non-governmental organizations. Drawing on his unique perspective as both a public safety leader and a storm chaser, Werner underscores the critical role drones play in disaster response and emergency management. With a focus on practical implementation strategies, regulatory navigation, and operational innovation, his expertise offers invaluable guidance for agencies looking to build, enhance, or expand their drone programs. Werner's leadership at Drone Responders and ongoing collaboration with the FAA continue to drive the advancement of drone technology in public safety worldwide.

Helpful Links:

Episode Highlights:

  • [07:34] Breakthrough in DFR COA Process - The FAA has dramatically streamlined the drone authorization process, reducing approval times from 11 months to just one week through a simplified four-document submission system. This change empowers public safety agencies to more quickly implement drone programs by eliminating lengthy paperwork and complex technical evaluations. The new process allows agencies to operate at 200 feet with basic ADS-B equipment or at 400 feet with detect-and-avoid technology, making drone deployment more accessible and cost-effective. Departments can now get operations approved by submitting a brief concept of operations, questionnaire responses, a public safety organization letter, and a public declaration letter. The streamlined process has already led to a surge in applications, with the FAA receiving over 20 DFR applications in a single day after the announcement.

  • [13:36] Real-World Impact of DFR Programs - Drone as First Responder programs are proving to be vital force multipliers, with 25% of deployments resolving situations before ground units arrive on scene. The technology provides crucial situational awareness and real-time video streaming that helps de-escalate potentially dangerous situations and improve operational decision-making. A powerful example comes from Chula Vista, where drone footage helped locate and rescue a person from a burning vehicle on I-5 with seconds to spare. The streamlined regulations are enabling more departments to implement these life-saving programs without being deterred by lengthy approval processes. This transformation is particularly valuable for departments facing staffing shortages, as it allows them to operate more efficiently with existing resources.

  • [33:26] Future of Drone Technology in Public Safety - The next evolution in public safety drone operations will enable single operators to control multiple aircraft simultaneously, dramatically expanding coverage capabilities. Emerging swarm technology combined with artificial intelligence will enhance search and rescue operations by automatically identifying anomalies and marking locations on maps. The integration of AI will reduce operator workload by handling routine monitoring tasks while highlighting areas needing attention. Part 107 DFR waivers now extend these capabilities to non-governmental organizations like volunteer fire departments and search and rescue teams. These advancements represent a fundamental shift from reactive to proactive emergency response operations.

Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Previous Guests include: Matt Rowland, Jason Burnside

Check out our 3 most downloaded episodes:
]]> Tue, 29 Apr 2025 11:00:00 +0000 John McLeod John McLeod 2468 Join host Joe Kearns as he sits down with Charles Werner, Aviation Technology Adviser for the Virginia Department of Aviation, Director of Drone Responders, and an experienced storm chaser. With over four decades of experience in emergency services, aviation, and severe weather response, Charles shares groundbreaking insights into the FAA’s recent regulatory changes that are transforming public safety drone operations. In this episode, Werner discusses the streamlined DFR COA process, the rapid shift from 11-month to one-week drone program approvals, and how simplified regulations are helping agencies launch and scale their UAS programs faster. Whether you’re a public safety professional, drone program manager, or policymaker, this episode offers vital updates, practical strategies, and a forward-looking perspective on the future of public safety drone operations. Join host Joe Kearns as he sits down with Charles Werner, Aviation Technology Adviser for the Virginia Department of Aviation, Director of Drone Responders, and an experienced storm chaser. With over four decades of experience in emergency services, aviation, and severe weather response, Charles shares groundbreaking insights into the FAA’s recent regulatory changes that are transforming public safety drone operations. In this episode, Werner discusses the streamlined DFR COA process, the rapid shift from 11-month to one-week drone program approvals, and how simplified regulations are helping agencies launch and scale their UAS programs faster. Whether you’re a public safety professional, drone program manager, or policymaker, this episode offers vital updates, practical strategies, and a forward-looking perspective on the future of public safety drone operations. No No Building the Future of Public Safety Drones: Policy, Technology, and Community with Rich Gatanis https://podcasts.fame.so/e/6nrr0zxn-rich-gatanis-part2 Building the Future of Public Safety Drones: Policy, Technology, and Community with Rich Gatanis 29 No No 8156n420 In part two of this Dronecast episode, host Joe Kearns continues his conversation with Rich Gatanis, UAS Coordinator at Southern Manatee Fire Rescue. They discuss Florida's drone legislation challenges, the formation of FLOGR (Florida Public Safety UAS Coordination Group), and the future of robotics in public safety, including emerging technologies and integration strategies. In part two of this Dronecast episode, host Joe Kearns continues his in-depth conversation with Rich Gatanis, UAS Coordinator at Southern Manatee Fire Rescue. Rich shares his experience navigating Florida's groundbreaking drone legislation, including the formation of FLOGR (Florida Public Safety UAS Coordination Group) and its role in shaping policy. The discussion explores the evolution of robotics in public safety, from traditional drones to innovative solutions like Squishy Robotics' deployable sensors. Rich also offers valuable insights for agencies looking to start or expand their drone programs, emphasizing the importance of community and knowledge sharing in the industry.

Episode Highlights:

  • [40:05] Rich discusses Florida's pioneering role in drone legislation and the challenges faced by public safety agencies.
  • [41:50] Detailed explanation of how FLOGR was formed and its impact on shaping state-level drone policy.
  • [47:23] Discussion of exciting advancements in robotics technology, including drone-deployable sensors and ground-based solutions.
  • [51:42] Rich offers advice for agencies looking to integrate drone technology into their operations.
  • [53:21] Exploration of the unique challenges fire services face in implementing drone programs compared to law enforcement.
  • [57:22] Information about the upcoming Florida UAS conference and networking opportunities.

Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Previous Guests include: Matt Rowland, Jason Burnside

Check out our 3 most downloaded episodes:
]]> Tue, 15 Apr 2025 11:00:00 +0000 John McLeod John McLeod 1670 In part two of this Dronecast episode, host Joe Kearns continues his conversation with Rich Gatanis, UAS Coordinator at Southern Manatee Fire Rescue. They discuss Florida's drone legislation challenges, the formation of FLOGR (Florida Public Safety UAS Coordination Group), and the future of robotics in public safety, including emerging technologies and integration strategies. In part two of this Dronecast episode, host Joe Kearns continues his conversation with Rich Gatanis, UAS Coordinator at Southern Manatee Fire Rescue. They discuss Florida's drone legislation challenges, the formation of FLOGR (Florida Public Safety UAS Coordination Group), and the future of robotics in public safety, including emerging technologies and integration strategies. No No Revolutionizing Hazmat Operations: Drones in Fire Service with Rich Gatanis https://podcasts.fame.so/e/mn4x6y4n-rich-gatanis-part1 Revolutionizing Hazmat Operations: Drones in Fire Service with Rich Gatanis 28 No No x06lkn90 In this episode of DroneCast, host Joe Kearns sits down with Rich Gatanis, UAS Coordinator at Southern Manatee Fire Rescue, to explore how drones are transforming hazardous materials (hazmat) operations. Rich shares how his team transitioned from traditional methods to drone-based solutions for safer and more effective emergency response—paving the way for national best practices in hazmat drone usage. In this episode of DroneCast, host Joe Kearns interviews Rich Gatanis, UAS Coordinator at Southern Manatee Fire Rescue, to unpack the groundbreaking applications of drone technology in hazardous material environments. Rich shares his unique journey from a banking career to becoming a firefighter post-9/11, and how that experience fuels his passion for innovation in public safety.

Listeners will hear how his department evolved their drone program since 2015, developing protocols for flammability testing, remote gas monitoring, and air quality assessments—all while improving responder safety and reducing personnel exposure to toxic conditions. Rich also outlines the strategic process of gaining buy-in, documenting testing procedures, and scaling these use cases into real-world deployment.

This episode offers critical insights for public safety leaders, hazmat responders, and drone innovators looking to responsibly integrate unmanned systems into their operations.

Episode Highlights:

  • [00:00] Intro: Rethinking Public Safety with Drones
  • [01:42] From Banking to Fire Service: A Career Change Story
  • [03:51] Early Days of Drone Integration in Fire Rescue
  • [06:06] Overcoming Administrative and Regulatory Challenges
  • [11:20] Pioneering Drone Safety Testing in Hazmat Environments
  • [14:12] Innovative Uses of Drones in Indoor Operations
  • [15:24] Advanced Air Monitoring and Chemical Detection
  • [18:51] Case Study: The Florida Volcano Incident
  • [21:10] Drone Applications in Disaster Response and Mapping
  • [22:43] Outro and Preview of Part 2

Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Previous Guests include: Matt Rowland, Jason Burnside

Check out our 3 most downloaded episodes:
]]> Tue, 01 Apr 2025 11:00:00 +0000 John McLeod John McLeod 1413 In this episode of DroneCast, host Joe Kearns sits down with Rich Gatanis, UAS Coordinator at Southern Manatee Fire Rescue, to explore how drones are transforming hazardous materials (hazmat) operations. Rich shares how his team transitioned from traditional methods to drone-based solutions for safer and more effective emergency response—paving the way for national best practices in hazmat drone usage. In this episode of DroneCast, host Joe Kearns sits down with Rich Gatanis, UAS Coordinator at Southern Manatee Fire Rescue, to explore how drones are transforming hazardous materials (hazmat) operations. Rich shares how his team transitioned from traditional methods to drone-based solutions for safer and more effective emergency response—paving the way for national best practices in hazmat drone usage. No No The Future of Automated Emergency Response: Jack Wu's Vision (Part 2) https://podcasts.fame.so/e/q80q02pn-the-future-of-automated-emergency-response-jack-wu-s-vision-part-2 The Future of Automated Emergency Response: Jack Wu's Vision (Part 2) 27 No No p0kp6rv1 In part 2 of this DroneCast episode, host Joe Kearns continues his conversation with Jack Wu, exploring Nightingale Security's approach to emergency response infrastructure, autonomous operations, and the future of integrated public safety systems. Jack shares insights on system resilience, inter-platform communication, and his vision for the evolution of emergency response technology.
In part 2 of this DroneCast episode, Jack Wu delves deeper into Nightingale Security's approach to emergency response systems and autonomous operations. The discussion covers their on-premise architecture that enables independent operations during network outages, cybersecurity considerations, and integration with various emergency response systems. Jack shares his vision for the future of automated emergency response, including drone-to-drone communication, AI-driven coordination, and the importance of unified emergency response systems. The conversation also explores the role of Real-Time Crime Centers (RTCs) and the potential for automated coordination in emergency situations.

Episode Highlights:

  • [32:48] Discussion of system architecture designed for independent operation during network outages
  • [35:38] Exploration of integration with other emergency response systems and sensors
  • [41:03] Analysis of Real-Time Crime Centers and their importance in emergency response
  • [48:04] Vision for the future of automated emergency response coordination
  • [52:08] Discussion of practical applications in campus safety and emergency scenarios
  • [54:46] Insights into the role of AI and future technological developments in emergency response

Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Previous Guests include: Matt Rowland, Jason Burnside

Check out our 3 most downloaded episodes:
]]> Tue, 18 Mar 2025 11:00:00 +0000 John McLeod John McLeod 1637 In part 2 of this DroneCast episode, host Joe Kearns continues his conversation with Jack Wu, exploring Nightingale Security's approach to emergency response infrastructure, autonomous operations, and the future of integrated public safety systems. Jack shares insights on system resilience, inter-platform communication, and his vision for the evolution of emergency response technology. In part 2 of this DroneCast episode, host Joe Kearns continues his conversation with Jack Wu, exploring Nightingale Security's approach to emergency response infrastructure, autonomous operations, and the future of integrated public safety systems. Jack shares insights on system resilience, inter-platform communication, and his vision for the evolution of emergency response technology. No No Building the A-10 of Drones: Jack Wu on Focused Design Philosophy (Part 1) https://podcasts.fame.so/e/4892p9pn-jack-wu-part1 Building the A-10 of Drones: Jack Wu on Focused Design Philosophy (Part 1) 26 No No v17v3l30 In part 1 of this DroneCast episode, host Joe Kearns speaks with Jack Wu, co-founder and CEO of Nightingale Security. They discuss Nightingale's focused approach to drone design, the challenges of urban drone operations, and why simplicity in design leads to reliability in the field. Jack shares insights on their Blackbird platform and explains why specialization in drone design is crucial for operational success. In part 1 of this DroneCast episode, host Joe Kearns interviews Jack Wu, co-founder and CEO of Nightingale Security. Jack shares his journey from consumer internet and gaming to drone technology, explaining Nightingale's philosophy of focused, purpose-built design. The conversation explores their flagship product, the Blackbird, a robotic aerial security system specifically designed for tactical ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance). Jack emphasizes their commitment to simplicity and reliability, drawing parallels with the A-10 Warthog's design philosophy. The discussion covers the challenges of continuous drone operations in urban environments, from weather resistance to networking issues, and why Nightingale chose to specialize rather than create a multi-purpose platform.

Episode Highlights:

  • [03:02] Jack discusses his background in consumer internet and gaming, and how it led to his interest in automation and drone technology.
  • [04:20] Introduction of Nightingale's Blackbird system and their focused approach to drone design for tactical ISR.
  • [06:22] Discussion of their design philosophy focusing on maintainability, field serviceability, and upgradeability.
  • [08:23] Detailed explanation of practical design choices, such as camera placement for weather resistance.
  • [10:16] Overview of the challenges in Drone-in-the-Box solutions and continuous operations.
  • [16:52] Exploration of urban environment challenges, particularly networking and connectivity issues.

Episode Resources:

Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Previous Guests include: Matt Rowland, Jason Burnside

Check out our 3 most downloaded episodes:
]]> Tue, 04 Mar 2025 12:00:00 +0000 John McLeod John McLeod 1513 In part 1 of this DroneCast episode, host Joe Kearns speaks with Jack Wu, co-founder and CEO of Nightingale Security. They discuss Nightingale's focused approach to drone design, the challenges of urban drone operations, and why simplicity in design leads to reliability in the field. Jack shares insights on their Blackbird platform and explains why specialization in drone design is crucial for operational success. In part 1 of this DroneCast episode, host Joe Kearns speaks with Jack Wu, co-founder and CEO of Nightingale Security. They discuss Nightingale's focused approach to drone design, the challenges of urban drone operations, and why simplicity in design leads to reliability in the field. Jack shares insights on their Blackbird platform and explains why specialization in drone design is crucial for operational success. No No The Future of Drones: AI and Autonomy with Adam Bilmes of Inspired Flight (Part 2) https://podcasts.fame.so/e/rn7y9zrn-adam-bilmes-part2 The Future of Drones: AI and Autonomy with Adam Bilmes of Inspired Flight (Part 2) 25 No No k18m4v80 In this second part of our conversation with Adam Bilmes, CEO of Inspired Flight, we discuss the exciting advancements in domestic drone manufacturing, navigating regulatory challenges, and the importance of reliability in drone technology. Adam shares insights on emerging trends, including connectivity options and the future of autonomous drones, while showcasing real-world applications in public safety. Tune in for an engaging conversation about the evolving landscape of drone technology!
In this Part 2 episode of DroneCast, host Joe Kerns speaks with Adam Bilmes, CEO of Inspired Flight, about the advancements in drone technology and its role in public safety. Adam has been instrumental in driving innovation and ensuring reliability in drone technology for critical public safety applications. 

Adam shares insights into connectivity, reliability, and the regulatory challenges in the drone industry. He also discusses Inspired Flight’s approach to integrating AI and autonomy, shaping the future of public safety drones.

This is another engaging conversation about the future of domestic drone manufacturing and the critical role that reliability and innovation play in the industry


Episode Highlights:

  • [00:01:04] Adam discusses advancements in drone connectivity, highlighting how American radio technologies improve reliability, particularly in public safety with LTE and 5G redundancy.
  • [00:04:39] He emphasizes the need for evolving regulations to keep up with rapid technological advances, citing BVLOS waivers as a step forward.
  • [00:05:54] Adam shares examples of drones deployed in extreme conditions like Antarctica and Florida’s hurricane recovery, demonstrating the importance of reliability.
  • [00:09:01] Inspired Flight has shifted from manufacturing aircraft to offering comprehensive solutions, focusing on tailored support and integration for customer success.
  • [00:12:17] He explains that domestic drones may cost more upfront, but the value in quality and support justifies the investment over cheaper alternatives.
  • [00:16:05] Looking ahead, Adam discusses the future of autonomy and AI in drones, with new features aimed at enhancing obstacle avoidance and industrial applications.


Episode Resources:

Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Previous Guests include: Matt Rowland, Jason Burnside

Check out our 3 most downloaded episodes:
]]> Tue, 18 Feb 2025 12:00:00 +0000 John McLeod John McLeod 1421 In this second part of our conversation with Adam Bilmes, CEO of Inspired Flight, we discuss the exciting advancements in domestic drone manufacturing, navigating regulatory challenges, and the importance of reliability in drone technology. Adam shares insights on emerging trends, including connectivity options and the future of autonomous drones, while showcasing real-world applications in public safety. Tune in for an engaging conversation about the evolving landscape of drone technology! In this second part of our conversation with Adam Bilmes, CEO of Inspired Flight, we discuss the exciting advancements in domestic drone manufacturing, navigating regulatory challenges, and the importance of reliability in drone technology. Adam shares insights on emerging trends, including connectivity options and the future of autonomous drones, while showcasing real-world applications in public safety. Tune in for an engaging conversation about the evolving landscape of drone technology! No No From Culinary Arts to Drones: Adam Bilmes of Inspired Flight's Journey (Part 1) https://podcasts.fame.so/e/0nj0rqln-adam-bilmes-inspired-flight-part1 From Culinary Arts to Drones: Adam Bilmes of Inspired Flight's Journey (Part 1) 24 No No 40pmvxr1 In this episode of DroneCast, host Joe Kerns is joined by Adam Bilmes, cofounder, and business development manager at Inspired Flight, to discuss his unexpected journey from sous chef to drone industry innovator, the challenges of building American-made technology in a competitive global market, and the importance of customer feedback in driving innovation. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about redefining domestic drone manufacturing and the future of the U.S. drone industry.
In this episode of DroneCast, host Joe Kerns speaks with Adam Bilmes, cofounder and business development manager at Inspired Flight, a company redefining domestic drone manufacturing. With a background as a sous chef, Adam transitioned to the drone industry after meeting his cofounder at a tech incubator. Since founding Inspired Flight in 2016, Adam has driven the company's focus on American-made technology, navigating challenges in the competitive drone market. His insights into compliance, innovation, and the evolving UAS landscape have made Inspired Flight a key player in the industry.

This is just part 1 of a 2-part episode. The discussion embarks on an engaging journey through Adam's unexpected transition from the culinary world to the forefront of the drone industry.

Episode Highlights:

  • [00:02:24] Adam Bilmes shares his transition from sous chef to cofounder of Inspired Flight, a leader in domestic drone manufacturing, driven by his passion for aviation and entrepreneurship.
  • [00:09:14] Adam discusses the Blue UAS program and its role in ensuring drones meet national security standards, emphasizing its importance for federal projects.
  • [00:14:36] Adam highlights the benefits of U.S.-based production, including faster innovation, better customer service, and stronger supplier relationships.
  • [00:18:38] Adam stresses the importance of quality and reliability in drones, particularly for public safety applications, and shares Inspired Flight's commitment to long-term customer support.
  • [00:22:35] Adam explains how customer feedback shapes innovation at Inspired Flight, with a focus on real-world use and product improvements.
  • [00:23:03] Adam reflects on the evolving drone industry, stressing the importance of adapting to global shifts and market demands for continued growth.

Episode Resources:

Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Previous Guests include: Matt Rowland, Jason Burnside

Check out our 3 most downloaded episodes:
]]> Tue, 04 Feb 2025 12:00:00 +0000 John McLeod John McLeod 1406 In this episode of DroneCast, host Joe Kerns is joined by Adam Bilmes, cofounder, and business development manager at Inspired Flight, to discuss his unexpected journey from sous chef to drone industry innovator, the challenges of building American-made technology in a competitive global market, and the importance of customer feedback in driving innovation. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about redefining domestic drone manufacturing and the future of the U.S. drone industry. In this episode of DroneCast, host Joe Kerns is joined by Adam Bilmes, cofounder, and business development manager at Inspired Flight, to discuss his unexpected journey from sous chef to drone industry innovator, the challenges of building American-made technology in a competitive global market, and the importance of customer feedback in driving innovation. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about redefining domestic drone manufacturing and the future of the U.S. drone industry. No No From Grenfell to Innovation: Lee Newman's Journey with London Fire Brigade Drones https://podcasts.fame.so/e/18pv0p68-lee-newman-london-fire From Grenfell to Innovation: Lee Newman's Journey with London Fire Brigade Drones 23 No No z1r3qvk0 In this episode of DroneCast, host Joe Kearns speaks with Lee Newman, a 27-year veteran of the London Fire Brigade and current drone project lead. They discuss Lee's journey from traditional firefighting to pioneering drone integration, his experiences following the Grenfell Tower fire, and his vision for the future of emergency drone operations in the UK, including the development of UK AERO (United Kingdom Emergency Robotics Responders Organisation).
In this episode of DroneCast, host Joe Kearns speaks with Lee Newman, who brings 27 years of experience with the London Fire Brigade and currently serves as their drone project lead. The conversation traces Lee's evolution from firefighter to drone innovation leader, sparked by witnessing drone effectiveness during the Grenfell Tower fire. Lee shares insights on implementing drone programs, from budget-conscious solutions to innovative payload delivery systems, and discusses his vision for UK AERO. The discussion encompasses challenges in adopting new technology, the importance of international collaboration, and the future of indoor drone operations in firefighting.

Episode Highlights:

  • [03:16] Lee shares his journey into firefighting, inspired by his brother's path and his love for dynamic, unpredictable work.
  • [06:08] Discussion of the Grenfell Tower fire and how witnessing drone operations during this tragedy sparked his interest in drone technology.
  • [14:01] Lee details innovative experiments combining existing safety equipment with drone technology, including rescue tubes and smoke hoods.
  • [17:08] Addresses challenges in drone integration, including resistance from traditional mindsets and strategies for demonstrating drone value.
  • [20:14] Explores budget-conscious approaches to implementing drone technology, including creative solutions for hazmat operations.
  • [27:43] Lee discusses plans for UK AERO, aimed at uniting emergency services drone operators across the UK.
  • [38:56] Reflects on his legacy in implementing drone programs within the London Fire Brigade and helping other departments start their own programs.
Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Previous Guests include: Matt Rowland, Jason Burnside

Check out our 3 most downloaded episodes:
]]> Tue, 21 Jan 2025 12:00:00 +0000 John McLeod John McLeod 2198 In this episode of DroneCast, host Joe Kearns speaks with Lee Newman, a 27-year veteran of the London Fire Brigade and current drone project lead. They discuss Lee's journey from traditional firefighting to pioneering drone integration, his experiences following the Grenfell Tower fire, and his vision for the future of emergency drone operations in the UK, including the development of UK AERO (United Kingdom Emergency Robotics Responders Organisation). In this episode of DroneCast, host Joe Kearns speaks with Lee Newman, a 27-year veteran of the London Fire Brigade and current drone project lead. They discuss Lee's journey from traditional firefighting to pioneering drone integration, his experiences following the Grenfell Tower fire, and his vision for the future of emergency drone operations in the UK, including the development of UK AERO (United Kingdom Emergency Robotics Responders Organisation). No No Redefining Drone Program Standards: Jon McBride on Industry Challenges, Global Supply Chains, and the Future of Public Safety Integration https://podcasts.fame.so/e/08j03mr8-jon-mcbride-public-safety-integration Redefining Drone Program Standards: Jon McBride on Industry Challenges, Global Supply Chains, and the Future of Public Safety Integration 21 No No 41pmj3v0 In part two of our Dronecast conversation, host Joe Kearns continues his discussion with Jon McBride, exploring critical challenges in the drone industry including manufacturing dependencies, regulatory considerations, and program implementation. Jon shares his vision for the future of drone integration in public safety and offers insights into building successful drone programs.
In this second part of our Dronecast conversation, hosts Joe Kearns and Jon McBride delve deeper into the complexities of the modern drone industry. Jon provides candid insights about global supply chain dependencies, particularly regarding China's role in drone manufacturing, and discusses the delicate balance between regulation and innovation. The conversation explores the challenges of implementing effective drone programs, the importance of proper budgeting and resource allocation, and Jon's vision for the future of drone integration in public safety operations. His practical approach to program development and passionate advocacy for industry advancement offer valuable insights for both newcomers and veterans in the field.

Episode Highlights:

  • [43:44] Jon discusses the evolution of training programs and the need for standardization across the industry.
  • [55:23] A candid discussion about the realities of global manufacturing and supply chain dependencies in the drone industry.
  • [1:03:40] Jon addresses regulatory challenges and advocates for a more balanced approach to drone legislation.
  • [1:21:01] The conversation turns to proper drone program implementation and common pitfalls agencies face.
  • [1:29:02] Jon shares his personal philosophy about industry advancement and the importance of focusing on progress over profit.

Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Previous Guests include: Matt Rowland, Jason Burnside

Check out our 3 most downloaded episodes:
]]> Tue, 07 Jan 2025 12:00:00 +0000 John McLeod John McLeod 2664 In part two of our Dronecast conversation, host Joe Kearns continues his discussion with Jon McBride, exploring critical challenges in the drone industry including manufacturing dependencies, regulatory considerations, and program implementation. Jon shares his vision for the future of drone integration in public safety and offers insights into building successful drone programs. In part two of our Dronecast conversation, host Joe Kearns continues his discussion with Jon McBride, exploring critical challenges in the drone industry including manufacturing dependencies, regulatory considerations, and program implementation. Jon shares his vision for the future of drone integration in public safety and offers insights into building successful drone programs. No No From RC Hobbyist to Drone Pioneer: Jon McBride on VTOL Evolution and the Birth of Modern Drone Training https://podcasts.fame.so/e/58zxrj78-jon-mcbride-uastechtalk From RC Hobbyist to Drone Pioneer: Jon McBride on VTOL Evolution and the Birth of Modern Drone Training 20 No No 81z74vn0 In this episode of Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time, host Joe Kearns speaks with Jon McBride, a veteran drone industry pioneer and chairman of the droning company. They discuss Jon's journey from RC enthusiast to Marine Corps instructor to drone technology innovator, exploring the evolution of drone technology and the development of modern training standards.
In this episode of Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time, host Joe Kearns speaks with Jon McBride, a veteran drone industry pioneer and chairman of the droning company. The conversation traces Jon's fascinating journey from RC hobbyist through his Marine Corps experience to becoming a key figure in drone technology innovation. They explore the evolution from multi-rotors to modern drones, the development of DFR (Drone First Responder) programs, and Jon's instrumental role in establishing training standards through the Autel Robotics Training Center. The episode culminates with insights into VTOL technology and the Dragonfish platform, offering a unique perspective on the industry's growth and future potential.


Episode Highlights:

  • [04:35] Jon shares his early passion for RC aircraft and how his Marine Corps experience as an electronics technician and marksmanship instructor shaped his approach to drone technology and training.
  • [12:06] A detailed discussion of the DFR (Drone First Responder) concept evolution and its impact on remote piloting capabilities.
  • [18:31] Jon breaks down the current state of the drone industry into three keywords: fragmented, collaboration, and innovation, providing insight into industry dynamics.
  • [29:06] The conversation turns to VTOL technology and the unique challenges and opportunities presented by the Dragonfish platform.
  • [31:12] Jon details the specific training requirements and safety considerations for advanced VTOL systems like the Dragonfish.

Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Previous Guests include: Matt Rowland, Jason Burnside

Check out our 3 most downloaded episodes:
]]> Tue, 17 Dec 2024 12:00:00 +0000 John McLeod John McLeod 1806 In this episode of Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time, host Joe Kearns speaks with Jon McBride, a veteran drone industry pioneer and chairman of the droning company. They discuss Jon's journey from RC enthusiast to Marine Corps instructor to drone technology innovator, exploring the evolution of drone technology and the development of modern training standards. In this episode of Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time, host Joe Kearns speaks with Jon McBride, a veteran drone industry pioneer and chairman of the droning company. They discuss Jon's journey from RC enthusiast to Marine Corps instructor to drone technology innovator, exploring the evolution of drone technology and the development of modern training standards. No No OpsHub Mobile: Revolutionizing Drone Operations with Ryan Bracken https://podcasts.fame.so/e/rnkm94ln-opshub-ryan-bracken OpsHub Mobile: Revolutionizing Drone Operations with Ryan Bracken 19 No No 70w7x3j0 In this episode of DroneCast, host Joe Kearns speaks with Ryan Bracken, Chief Product Officer and Chief Information Security Officer at DroneSense. They discuss DroneSense's newest product launch, OpsHub Mobile, its impact on public safety operations, and the future of unmanned aviation. Ryan shares insights on how the application streamlines drone operations and enhances situational awareness for public safety practitioners.
In this episode of DroneCast, host Joe Kearns speaks with Ryan Bracken, Chief Product Officer and Chief Information Security Officer at DroneSense. With a background in aerospace engineering and experience at the National Air and Space Intelligence Center and FBI, Ryan brings deep expertise to the discussion of drone technology. They explore DroneSense's newest product, OpsHub Mobile, discussing how it simplifies drone operations by providing easy access to drone location and video feeds. Ryan explains the evolution of their mobile applications, the importance of notifications and location data in public safety operations, and the careful balance between technological advancement and privacy concerns. The conversation also touches on future developments in drone technology, emphasizing speed and efficiency in emergency response situations.

Episode Highlights:

  • [04:24] Ryan explains OpsHub Mobile's core functionality as an application to see drone locations and activities, comparing it to the "last mile" concept in delivery services.
  • [06:46] Discussion of how OpsHub Mobile differs from previous DroneSense applications, focusing on serving non-pilot users who need to consume drone information.
  • [15:40] Ryan breaks down the three key components of OpsHub Mobile: notifications, location information, and video feed access, explaining how each enhances operational effectiveness.
  • [18:21] Exploration of future developments, emphasizing simplification and reliability while maintaining essential functionality.
  • [27:30] Discussion about balancing technological advancement with privacy concerns and the importance of thoughtful implementation of drone technology.
  • [31:25] Ryan shares his excitement about the future of drone technology, particularly focusing on speed improvements in response times and operations.

Quotes:

  • "We're saying we're building an app for people who are not flying a drone. So this is a place to live for people who are not necessarily even part of the drone program."
  • "Without some other context, it doesn't have heck of a lot of value. So I would say the second thing we're providing here is location."
  • "This is an ever-changing environment. This environment changes and changes. So what you think today might be the right answer may not be the right answer tomorrow."
  • "Customers, you know, it is by far the best and sometimes it feels like only reason to get out of bed in the morning is we have, we just have the most extraordinary customers."

Episode Resources:

Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Previous Guests include: Matt Rowland, Jason Burnside

Check out our 3 most downloaded episodes:
]]> Tue, 03 Dec 2024 12:00:00 +0000 John McLeod John McLeod 1813 In this episode of DroneCast, host Joe Kearns speaks with Ryan Bracken, Chief Product Officer and Chief Information Security Officer at DroneSense. They discuss DroneSense's newest product launch, OpsHub Mobile, its impact on public safety operations, and the future of unmanned aviation. Ryan shares insights on how the application streamlines drone operations and enhances situational awareness for public safety practitioners. In this episode of DroneCast, host Joe Kearns speaks with Ryan Bracken, Chief Product Officer and Chief Information Security Officer at DroneSense. They discuss DroneSense's newest product launch, OpsHub Mobile, its impact on public safety operations, and the future of unmanned aviation. Ryan shares insights on how the application streamlines drone operations and enhances situational awareness for public safety practitioners. No No Essentials of DFR Implementation & Program Development: Matt Rybar Episode https://podcasts.fame.so/e/x8ymywz8-essentials-matt-rybar Essentials of DFR Implementation & Program Development: Matt Rybar Episode 18 No No l04n4kx0 In this landmark episode of Dronecast, Matt Rybar, Vice President of Special Projects at Unmanned Vehicle Technologies (UVT), shares expert insights on drone program development, DFR implementation, and the future of public safety UAS operations.
In this comprehensive episode of Dronecast, Matt Rybar from UVT details his extensive experience helping agencies develop and implement drone programs. The discussion covers crucial aspects including DFR implementation, training protocols, community engagement, and interagency collaboration. Rybar shares valuable insights from his work with various agencies across the country, while offering practical advice for organizations at all stages of drone program development.

Episode Highlights:

  • [05:07] Evolution of public safety drone programs and UVT's role
  • [13:25] DFR implementation strategies and best practices
  • [18:42] Building successful agency partnerships
  • [27:15] Equipment selection and program sustainability
  • [34:58] Future trends in public safety drone technology

Quotes:

  • "Every agency across the country that has a drone program can do a DFR 1.0 solution at basically no cost."
  • "Sometimes a fully integrated DFR system is not the best first step for an organization."

Episode Resources:

  • Unmanned Vehicle Technologies (UVT)
  • DroneSense Platform
  • FAA Regulations and Guidelines
  • Public Safety Drone Resources
Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Previous Guests include: Matt Rowland, Jason Burnside

Check out our 3 most downloaded episodes:
]]> Tue, 19 Nov 2024 12:00:00 +0000 John McLeod John McLeod 1848 In this landmark episode of Dronecast, Matt Rybar, Vice President of Special Projects at Unmanned Vehicle Technologies (UVT), shares expert insights on drone program development, DFR implementation, and the future of public safety UAS operations. In this landmark episode of Dronecast, Matt Rybar, Vice President of Special Projects at Unmanned Vehicle Technologies (UVT), shares expert insights on drone program development, DFR implementation, and the future of public safety UAS operations. No No The Future of Drone Technology in Firefighting: Insights from Coitt Kessler https://podcasts.fame.so/e/lnq2wvz8-firefighting-insights-coitt-kessler The Future of Drone Technology in Firefighting: Insights from Coitt Kessler 17 No No 81nkvrn0 In the second part of the DroneCast episode, host Joe Kearns continues his conversation with Coitt Kessler, exploring the impact of drones in different firefighting scenarios, the challenges and limitations of current technology, and the future of drone use in emergency response.
In this second part of the DroneCast episode, host Joe Kearns and Coitt Kessler delve deeper into the nuances of drone technology in firefighting. They discuss the similarities and differences in using drones for rural versus urban environments, the current limitations of drone technology, and potential improvements. Coitt shares insights on the importance of data management and communication in emergency situations. The conversation then shifts to the future of drone technology, including the integration of AI, the concept of "teaming" between humans, drones, and other robotic systems, and the potential impact of these advancements on firefighting tactics. They also touch on the challenges of regulations and the need for American innovation in drone manufacturing.

Episode Highlights:

  • [30:00] Coitt compares the use of drones in rural and urban firefighting scenarios, highlighting similarities and unique challenges.
  • [38:22] The conversation shifts to the challenges of training and skill development for firefighters using drone technology.
  • [45:23] Coitt offers advice for agencies looking to start or expand their drone programs.
  • [49:06] The discussion explores future technological advancements, including AI integration and the concept of "teaming" in emergency response.
  • [54:44] The episode concludes with thoughts on the evolution of firefighting equipment and the role of drones in this progression.

Episode Resources:

Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Previous Guests include: Matt Rowland, Jason Burnside

Check out our 3 most downloaded episodes:
]]> Tue, 05 Nov 2024 12:00:00 +0000 John McLeod John McLeod 2046 In the second part of the DroneCast episode, host Joe Kearns continues his conversation with Coitt Kessler, exploring the impact of drones in different firefighting scenarios, the challenges and limitations of current technology, and the future of drone use in emergency response. In the second part of the DroneCast episode, host Joe Kearns continues his conversation with Coitt Kessler, exploring the impact of drones in different firefighting scenarios, the challenges and limitations of current technology, and the future of drone use in emergency response. No No Revolutionizing Firefighting with Drones: Insights from Coitt Kessler https://podcasts.fame.so/e/0nj0yl5n-drones-insights-coitt-kessler Revolutionizing Firefighting with Drones: Insights from Coitt Kessler 16 No No 40pmqr91 In this first part of the DroneCast episode, host Joe Kearns speaks with Coitt Kessler, a veteran firefighter and Customer Success Manager at DroneSense. They discuss the evolution of drone technology in firefighting, the challenges of implementing drone programs, and the multifaceted applications of drones in public safety.
In this first part of the DroneCast episode, host Joe Kearns interviews Coitt Kessler, a veteran firefighter with over 20 years of experience at the Austin Fire Department and current Customer Success Manager at DroneSense. Coitt shares his journey in integrating drone technology into firefighting operations, discussing the initial challenges and public perceptions. He explains how drones are currently used in various aspects of public safety, from fire response to disaster management and even shark monitoring. Coitt also delves into the importance of community engagement and education in implementing drone programs. The conversation covers the evolution of drone technology, the creation of DroneSense, and the critical role of information gathering in emergency response.

Episode Highlights:

  • [04:00] Coitt explains the various applications of drone technology in firefighting and public safety, from accident scene assessment to disaster response.
  • [07:00] Coitt recounts the early days of implementing drone technology in firefighting, including public perception challenges and the need for specialized training.
  • [13:00] The origins of DroneSense are discussed, highlighting how real-world firefighting needs shaped the development of the software.
  • [17:00] Coitt elaborates on the use of drones in wildfire prevention and management, emphasizing the importance of aerial perspective in assessing fuel loads and fire risks.
  • [23:00] The conversation shifts to the use of drones in large-scale events and protests for crowd management and safety.

Episode Resources:

Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Previous Guests include: Matt Rowland, Jason Burnside

Check out our 3 most downloaded episodes:
]]> Tue, 22 Oct 2024 11:00:00 +0000 John McLeod John McLeod 1357 In this first part of the DroneCast episode, host Joe Kearns speaks with Coitt Kessler, a veteran firefighter and Customer Success Manager at DroneSense. They discuss the evolution of drone technology in firefighting, the challenges of implementing drone programs, and the multifaceted applications of drones in public safety. In this first part of the DroneCast episode, host Joe Kearns speaks with Coitt Kessler, a veteran firefighter and Customer Success Manager at DroneSense. They discuss the evolution of drone technology in firefighting, the challenges of implementing drone programs, and the multifaceted applications of drones in public safety. No No Meet Joe Kearns: The New Voice of DroneCast https://podcasts.fame.so/e/2861q5ln-meet-joe-kearns Meet Joe Kearns: The New Voice of DroneCast 15 No No j122rpl1 In this special mini-episode of DroneCast, host John McLeod introduces Joe Kearns as the new co-host. They discuss Joe's background in the UAS industry, his role at DroneSense, and his vision for future episodes of DroneCast.
In this special mini-episode of DroneCast, host John McLeod introduces Joe Kearns as the new co-host of the podcast. John begins by reflecting on DroneCast's success since its launch in 2024, highlighting the valuable conversations and advice shared by guests. He explains that adding Joe as a co-host will allow the podcast to explore a broader range of topics and interests.

Joe Kearns, the Strategic Partnerships Manager at DroneSense, shares his background in the UAS industry. He recounts how he first became interested in drones while working as a field estimator, seeing their potential to solve practical problems. Joe's journey in the industry includes experience in oil and gas, drone sales and distribution, and now his role at DroneSense.

The conversation touches on what Joe appreciates about DroneCast and his vision for future episodes. He expresses interest in exploring emerging technologies, training concepts, and bringing in voices from his extensive network in the industry. John and Joe discuss their excitement for the future of the podcast and the drone industry as a whole.

Episode Highlights:

  • [00:49] John McLeod introduces the purpose of the mini-episode and reflects on DroneCast's journey.
  • [02:18] Joe Kearns is introduced as the new co-host of DroneCast.
  • [02:37] Joe explains his role as Strategic Partnerships Manager at DroneSense.
  • [03:57] Joe shares his background and how he got interested in the UAS space.
  • [08:15] Joe expresses his appreciation for DroneCast and the value it brings to listeners.
  • [09:40] Discussion of topics Joe plans to bring to future episodes.
  • [11:32] Joe shares his excitement about emerging technologies and industry developments.
  • [12:28] Joe's closing thoughts and excitement about joining DroneCast.

Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Previous Guests include: Matt Rowland, Jason Burnside

Check out our 3 most downloaded episodes:
]]> Mon, 21 Oct 2024 11:00:00 +0000 John McLeod John McLeod 694 In this special mini-episode of DroneCast, host John McLeod introduces Joe Kearns as the new co-host. They discuss Joe's background in the UAS industry, his role at DroneSense, and his vision for future episodes of DroneCast. In this special mini-episode of DroneCast, host John McLeod introduces Joe Kearns as the new co-host. They discuss Joe's background in the UAS industry, his role at DroneSense, and his vision for future episodes of DroneCast. No No The Future of Emergency Response: Chris Lester on Drones, Policy, and Innovation https://podcasts.fame.so/e/r87yyvx8-emergency-response-chris-lester The Future of Emergency Response: Chris Lester on Drones, Policy, and Innovation 14 No No k08mmn31 In part 2 of this DroneCast episode, host John McLeod continues his conversation with Chris Lester, Division Chief at Austin-Travis County EMS. They discuss the challenges of implementing drone programs in public safety, including interagency collaboration, budgeting, policy considerations, and future technological advancements in the field.
In the second part of this DroneCast episode, host John McLeod delves deeper into the complexities of implementing and managing drone programs in emergency medical services with Chris Lester, Division Chief at Austin-Travis County EMS. The conversation covers a wide range of topics, including the importance of interagency collaboration, strategies for navigating budget constraints and policy challenges, and the role of public perception in shaping drone programs. Chris shares insights on leadership in public safety, emphasizing the need for both humility and ambition. The discussion also explores future technological advancements in the field, such as drone-as-first-responder programs and the potential use of eVTOLs in emergency response.


Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Previous Guests include: Matt Rowland, Jason Burnside

Check out our 3 most downloaded episodes:
]]> Tue, 08 Oct 2024 11:00:00 +0000 John McLeod John McLeod 1535 In part 2 of this DroneCast episode, host John McLeod continues his conversation with Chris Lester, Division Chief at Austin-Travis County EMS. They discuss the challenges of implementing drone programs in public safety, including interagency collaboration, budgeting, policy considerations, and future technological advancements in the field. In part 2 of this DroneCast episode, host John McLeod continues his conversation with Chris Lester, Division Chief at Austin-Travis County EMS. They discuss the challenges of implementing drone programs in public safety, including interagency collaboration, budgeting, policy considerations, and future technological advancements in the field. Interagency collaboration in public safety, Drone program implementation challenges, Public safety leadership, Emergency response innovation, Drone policy and legislation, Budgeting for drone programs, Future EMS technologies, Perched drone networks, eVTOL aircraft in emergency response, Public perception of drones in EMS, Communication in emergency situations, Resource allocation in public safety, EMS technology adoption, Collaborative emergency response No No Revolutionizing Emergency Response: Chris Lester on Drones in EMS https://podcasts.fame.so/e/4n922rp8-emergency-response-chris-lester1 Revolutionizing Emergency Response: Chris Lester on Drones in EMS 13 No No v07vvp31 In this episode of DroneCast, host John McLeod speaks with Chris Lester, Division Chief at Austin-Travis County EMS and UAS Program Administrator. They discuss Chris's journey in emergency medical services, the integration of drone technology in EMS operations, and innovative uses of drones in public safety and community health initiatives.
In this episode of DroneCast, host John McLeod interviews Chris Lester, Division Chief at Austin-Travis County EMS and UAS Program Administrator. Chris shares his journey from aspiring medical professional to paramedic and eventually to his current leadership role in emergency medical services. The conversation focuses on how Austin-Travis County EMS has integrated drone technology into their operations, discussing various use cases from search and rescue to supporting homeless populations and enhancing response during special events. Chris highlights the department's innovative approaches, including using drones for medication delivery in challenging situations and coordinating with manned aviation units. The episode also touches on the rapid evolution of drone technology and its impact on improving emergency response efficiency and outcomes.



Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Previous Guests include: Matt Rowland, Jason Burnside

Check out our 3 most downloaded episodes:
]]> Tue, 24 Sep 2024 11:00:00 +0000 John McLeod John McLeod 1706 In this episode of DroneCast, host John McLeod speaks with Chris Lester, Division Chief at Austin-Travis County EMS and UAS Program Administrator. They discuss Chris's journey in emergency medical services, the integration of drone technology in EMS operations, and innovative uses of drones in public safety and community health initiatives. In this episode of DroneCast, host John McLeod speaks with Chris Lester, Division Chief at Austin-Travis County EMS and UAS Program Administrator. They discuss Chris's journey in emergency medical services, the integration of drone technology in EMS operations, and innovative uses of drones in public safety and community health initiatives. Emergency Medical Services (EMS), Drone technology in public safety, Search and rescue operations, Medication delivery by drone, Community health initiatives, Special event management, Manned and unmanned aviation coordination, Disaster response, Homeless population support, Innovative emergency response, Drone First Responder (DFR) programs, Public safety resource allocation, Urban search and rescue, Drone drop mechanisms, EMS technology integration No No Navigating Drone Program Challenges: Lessons from George Mason University https://podcasts.fame.so/e/68rrryq8-navigating-drone-program Navigating Drone Program Challenges: Lessons from George Mason University 12 No No 80566pw1 In this part of the DroneCast episode, host John McLeod continues his conversation with Michael Lighthiser, Deputy Chief of Police for George Mason University. They discuss the use of drones in VIP protection, advice for starting drone programs, legislative challenges, and community engagement strategies.
In the second part of this DroneCast episode, host John McLeod and Michael Lighthiser, Deputy Chief of Police for George Mason University, delve deeper into the complexities of running a university drone program. Lighthiser shares insights on using drones for VIP protection, including coordination with the Secret Service and FAA. He offers valuable advice for agencies starting drone programs, emphasizing the importance of administrative support and passionate team members.


The conversation also covers lessons learned from building GMU's program, including equipment selection and data management challenges. Lighthiser discusses his work with the Law Enforcement Drone Association and addresses concerns about potential legislation restricting drone use. The episode concludes with a discussion on community engagement and transparency in drone operations.


Episode Highlights:

  • [02:28] Lighthiser explains how they coordinate with the US Secret Service and FAA for VIP protection using drones, including pre-planning for potential scenarios.
  • [03:46] He discusses using drones for advanced work, such as creating up-to-date maps and 3D models of venues for VIP visits.
  • [05:24] Lighthiser shares key advice for agencies starting drone programs, emphasizing the need for full commitment and administrative support.
  • [07:20] He reflects on lessons learned, including the importance of choosing appropriate equipment and managing data effectively.
  • [10:19] Lighthiser discusses his work with the Law Enforcement Drone Association, including upcoming training events and efforts to educate elected officials.
  • [12:40] He addresses concerns about potential legislation restricting drone use, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach that doesn't hinder public safety operations.
  • [18:40] Lighthiser shares strategies for community engagement and transparency, including publishing mission details on their website.
Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Previous Guests include: Matt Rowland, Jason Burnside

Check out our 3 most downloaded episodes:
]]> Tue, 10 Sep 2024 11:00:00 +0000 John McLeod John McLeod 1462 In this part of the DroneCast episode, host John McLeod continues his conversation with Michael Lighthiser, Deputy Chief of Police for George Mason University. They discuss the use of drones in VIP protection, advice for starting drone programs, legislative challenges, and community engagement strategies. In this part of the DroneCast episode, host John McLeod continues his conversation with Michael Lighthiser, Deputy Chief of Police for George Mason University. They discuss the use of drones in VIP protection, advice for starting drone programs, legislative challenges, and community engagement strategies. No No Drones in Higher Education: Insights from George Mason University's Public Safety Program https://podcasts.fame.so/e/q80q2vjn-education-insights-from-george-mason-university Drones in Higher Education: Insights from George Mason University's Public Safety Program 11 No No p0kprnx1 In this episode of DroneCast, host John McLeod speaks with Michael Lighthiser, the Deputy Chief of Police for George Mason University and co-chair of the Threat Assessment Team. They discuss GMU's public safety drone program, its origins, and how it has evolved to support both law enforcement and educational initiatives on campus.
In this episode of DroneCast, host John McLeod interviews Michael Lighthiser, the Deputy Chief of Police for George Mason University and co-chair of the Threat Assessment Team. Lighthiser shares insights into GMU's public safety drone program, which has been operational since 2018. He discusses how the program started, its evolution, and its dual role in supporting both law enforcement and educational initiatives on campus.


Lighthiser explains how the 2017 Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville sparked GMU's interest in drone technology for public safety. He details the program's growth, including its pivotal role during the civil unrest following George Floyd's murder, where drones proved instrumental in maintaining officer safety. The conversation also covers the unique challenges of operating in the DC area's restricted airspace and the importance of inter-agency cooperation.


Throughout the episode, Lighthiser highlights the innovative ways GMU integrates its drone program with academic research, including forensic studies and the development of future drone technology experts. He also shares valuable insights on conducting successful overwatch operations and the benefits of fixed-wing drones for extended missions.


Episode Highlights:

  • [01:10] Lighthiser explains how the 2017 Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville sparked GMU's interest in drone technology for public safety.
  • [03:17] He describes the program's first major deployment using DroneSense during protests following George Floyd's murder, which significantly reduced officer injuries and demonstrated the value of drones to regional partners.
  • [04:36] Lighthiser discusses the unique aspect of GMU's program, which leverages both law enforcement and educational components, allowing researchers to work on real-world problems using drone technology.
  • [06:52] He details how the program supports various research initiatives, including forensic studies at their "body farm" and the development of techniques to locate clandestine graves using drone technology.
  • [09:00] Lighthiser shares insights on conducting successful overwatch operations, emphasizing the importance of planning, training, and inter-agency cooperation.
  • [11:17] He discusses the recent adoption of fixed-wing drones for extended overwatch missions, highlighting the challenges and benefits of this new technology.
  • [14:25] Lighthiser emphasizes the importance of collaboration and humility when working with multiple agencies on complex missions.
  • [17:37] He describes the collaborative environment in the National Capital Region and how agencies share knowledge and resources to improve their drone programs.
  • [19:58] Lighthiser explains the challenges of operating in the restricted airspace near Washington D.C. and how they've developed processes to work effectively within these constraints.
Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Previous Guests include: Matt Rowland, Jason Burnside

Check out our 3 most downloaded episodes:
]]> Wed, 28 Aug 2024 02:00:00 +0000 John McLeod John McLeod 1298 In this episode of DroneCast, host John McLeod speaks with Michael Lighthiser, the Deputy Chief of Police for George Mason University and co-chair of the Threat Assessment Team. They discuss GMU's public safety drone program, its origins, and how it has evolved to support both law enforcement and educational initiatives on campus. In this episode of DroneCast, host John McLeod speaks with Michael Lighthiser, the Deputy Chief of Police for George Mason University and co-chair of the Threat Assessment Team. They discuss GMU's public safety drone program, its origins, and how it has evolved to support both law enforcement and educational initiatives on campus. No No Navigating the Future of Counter-Drone Operations: Insights from Jack Venables https://podcasts.fame.so/e/1npv49vn-jack-venables-counter-drone Navigating the Future of Counter-Drone Operations: Insights from Jack Venables 10 No No z0r39w31 In this episode of DroneCast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time, host John McLeod speaks with Jack Venables, an expert in counter-drone operations. They discuss the integration of cutting-edge counter-drone measures within public safety, the challenges of rapidly evolving technology, and the importance of collaboration in ensuring airspace security. In this episode of DroneCast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time, host John McLeod speaks with Jack Venables, an expert specializing in counter-drone operations. Jack shares his insights on the intersection of technology and public safety, the daily challenges of managing a counter-drone program, and the importance of stakeholder engagement. He discusses the rapid evolution of drone technology, the need for balanced and proportionate responses, and the future challenges facing the field. Jack emphasizes the critical role of collaboration among various agencies and the importance of public education in successful counter-drone operations.

Jack Venables brings a wealth of experience from his role in public safety, where he focuses on integrating cutting-edge counter-drone measures. His career reflects a deep-rooted commitment to innovation and proactive approaches, with a keen understanding of both the operational and technological landscapes in airspace security.

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Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Previous Guests include: Matt Rowland, Jason Burnside

Check out our 3 most downloaded episodes:
]]> Tue, 13 Aug 2024 11:00:00 +0000 John McLeod John McLeod 1749 In this episode of DroneCast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time, host John McLeod speaks with Jack Venables, an expert in counter-drone operations. They discuss the integration of cutting-edge counter-drone measures within public safety, the challenges of rapidly evolving technology, and the importance of collaboration in ensuring airspace security. In this episode of DroneCast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time, host John McLeod speaks with Jack Venables, an expert in counter-drone operations. They discuss the integration of cutting-edge counter-drone measures within public safety, the challenges of rapidly evolving technology, and the importance of collaboration in ensuring airspace security. No No Drones in Firefighting: Insights from Taylor Wade, Lake Travis Fire Rescue's UAS Program Manager https://podcasts.fame.so/e/0nj02x2n-taylor-wade-lake-travis Drones in Firefighting: Insights from Taylor Wade, Lake Travis Fire Rescue's UAS Program Manager 9 No No 40pm4p41 In this episode of DroneCast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time, host John McLeod speaks with Lieutenant Taylor Wade, UAS Program Manager for Lake Travis Fire Rescue's Technology Aiding Command (TAC) team. They discuss the evolution of Lake Travis Fire Rescue's drone program, its current state, and the various applications of drones in firefighting and public safety. In this episode of DroneCast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time, host John McLeod speaks with Lieutenant Taylor Wade, UAS Program Manager for Lake Travis Fire Rescue's Technology Aiding Command (TAC) team. Taylor, who has been with Lake Travis Fire Rescue since 2013, shares his journey from studying criminology to becoming a firefighter and drone program manager.


The conversation covers the history and development of Lake Travis Fire Rescue's drone program, which started about six years ago primarily for prevention and fuels mitigation. Taylor explains how the program evolved, faced challenges, and was eventually revamped with a new focus on aiding command decision-making through technology.


Taylor details the current state of the program, including the number of FAA Part 107 pilots, the types of drones used, and the various software and training tools implemented. He also discusses the diverse applications of drones in firefighting, from thermal imaging for detecting hot spots to improving resource allocation in smoke investigations.


The episode also touches on the challenges of rapid community growth in the Lake Travis area, the importance of interagency collaboration, and strategies for keeping drone pilots' skills sharp. Taylor shares insights on promoting the program's successes, engaging with the community, and advice for other agencies looking to start or improve their own drone programs.

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]]> Tue, 30 Jul 2024 11:00:00 +0000 John McLeod John McLeod 1490 In this episode of DroneCast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time, host John McLeod speaks with Lieutenant Taylor Wade, UAS Program Manager for Lake Travis Fire Rescue's Technology Aiding Command (TAC) team. They discuss the evolution of Lake Travis Fire Rescue's drone program, its current state, and the various applications of drones in firefighting and public safety. In this episode of DroneCast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time, host John McLeod speaks with Lieutenant Taylor Wade, UAS Program Manager for Lake Travis Fire Rescue's Technology Aiding Command (TAC) team. They discuss the evolution of Lake Travis Fire Rescue's drone program, its current state, and the various applications of drones in firefighting and public safety. No No Integrating Drones into Public Safety: Enhancing Safety for Responders and Citizens with Matt Rybar from Unmanned Vehicle Technologies https://podcasts.fame.so/e/p8m5w6q8-integrating-drones-matt-rybar Integrating Drones into Public Safety: Enhancing Safety for Responders and Citizens with Matt Rybar from Unmanned Vehicle Technologies 8 No No 70vl9pv0 In this episode of Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time, host John McLeod speaks to Matt Rybar, the Vice President of Projects at Unmanned Vehicle Technologies (UVT). They discuss the importance of collaboration with other agencies, dock solutions, and strategies for implementing drone programmes. In this episode of Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time, host John McLeod speaks to Matt Rybar, the Vice President of Projects at Unmanned Vehicle Technologies (UVT). They discuss the importance of collaboration with other agencies, dock solutions, and strategies for implementing drone programmes. 

Matt Rybar is the Vice President of Projects at UVT, who work with organizations to identify the right drone and robotics solutions. He also founded the Michigan Public Safety Drone Association, and has a part-time role with Huron-Clinton Metroparks as a Patrol Officer and Emergency Manager.

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. Instructions on how to do this are here.
Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Previous Guests include: Matt Rowland, Jason Burnside

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]]> Tue, 16 Jul 2024 11:00:00 +0000 John McLeod John McLeod 1935 In this episode of Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time, host John McLeod speaks to Matt Rybar, the Vice President of Projects at Unmanned Vehicle Technologies (UVT). They discuss the importance of collaboration with other agencies, dock solutions, and strategies for implementing drone programmes. In this episode of Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time, host John McLeod speaks to Matt Rybar, the Vice President of Projects at Unmanned Vehicle Technologies (UVT). They discuss the importance of collaboration with other agencies, dock solutions, and strategies for implementing drone programmes. No No Building Public Trust: The Role of Drones in Public Safety with Matt Rybar from Unmanned Vehicle Technologies https://podcasts.fame.so/e/0nj0l54n-matt-rybar-unmanned-vehicle-technologies Building Public Trust: The Role of Drones in Public Safety with Matt Rybar from Unmanned Vehicle Technologies 7 No No 40pmr971 In this episode of Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time, host John McLeod speaks to Matt Rybar, the Vice President of Projects at Unmanned Vehicle Technologies (UVT). They discuss the evolution of drone programs in public safety, the importance of public trust, and the potential of DFR programs to enhance emergency response. In this episode of Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time, host John McLeod speaks to Matt Rybar, the Vice President of Projects at Unmanned Vehicle Technologies (UVT). They discuss the evolution of drone programs in public safety, the importance of public trust, and the potential of DFR programs to enhance emergency response.

Matt Rybar is the Vice President of Projects at UVT, who works with organizations to identify the right drone and robotics solutions. He also founded the Michigan Public Safety Drone Association and has a part-time role with Huron-Clinton Metroparks as a Patrol Officer and Emergency Manager.

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. Instructions on how to do this are here.
Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Previous Guests include: Matt Rowland, Jason Burnside

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]]> Tue, 02 Jul 2024 11:00:00 +0000 John McLeod John McLeod 1318 In this episode of Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time, host John McLeod speaks to Matt Rybar, the Vice President of Projects at Unmanned Vehicle Technologies (UVT). They discuss the evolution of drone programs in public safety, the importance of public trust, and the potential of DFR programs to enhance emergency response. In this episode of Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time, host John McLeod speaks to Matt Rybar, the Vice President of Projects at Unmanned Vehicle Technologies (UVT). They discuss the evolution of drone programs in public safety, the importance of public trust, and the potential of DFR programs to enhance emergency response. No No Implementing Drones in Public Safety: Insights from Charles Werner, Aviation Technologies Advisor for the Virginia Dept. of Aviation https://podcasts.fame.so/e/183m9qp8-charles-werner-aviation-technologies Implementing Drones in Public Safety: Insights from Charles Werner, Aviation Technologies Advisor for the Virginia Dept. of Aviation 6 No No m0j2x4l0 In this episode of Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time, host John McLeod speaks to Charles Werner, the Aviation Technologies Advisor for the Virginia Dept. of Aviation. They discuss starting a drone program, the potential of artificial intelligence and swarm technology, and the need for standardized training and certification programs. In this episode of Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time, host John McLeod speaks to Charles Werner, the Aviation Technologies Advisor for the Virginia Dept. of Aviation. They discuss starting a drone program, the potential of artificial intelligence and swarm technology, and the need for standardized training and certification programs. 

Charles Werner is an Aviation Technologies Advisor for the Virginia Department of Aviation. He also serves as the director of DroneResponders Public Safety Alliance, chair of the National Council on Public Safety UAS and chair of the Virginia Secure Commonwealth UAS Sub Panel.

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. Instructions on how to do this are here.
Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

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]]> Tue, 18 Jun 2024 10:00:00 +0000 John McLeod John McLeod 2600 In this episode of Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time, host John McLeod speaks to Charles Werner, the Aviation Technologies Advisor for the Virginia Dept. of Aviation. They discuss starting a drone program, the potential of artificial intelligence and swarm technology, and the need for standardized training and certification programs. In this episode of Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time, host John McLeod speaks to Charles Werner, the Aviation Technologies Advisor for the Virginia Dept. of Aviation. They discuss starting a drone program, the potential of artificial intelligence and swarm technology, and the need for standardized training and certification programs. No No How Drones Revolutionize Medicolegal Death Investigations with Philip Miller https://podcasts.fame.so/e/68rrl948-drones-revolutionize-philip-miller How Drones Revolutionize Medicolegal Death Investigations with Philip Miller 5 No No 80568q91 In this episode of Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time, host John McLeod speaks to Philip Miller, Medicolegal Death Investigator in the Oklahoma Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. They dive into how Philip's office is pioneering the use of drones in reshaping how death scenes are assessed. Philip also shares the vital work of a medicolegal death investigator, the benefits of using drones in his work, and insights on launching a drone program. In this episode of Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time, host John McLeod speaks to Philip Miller, Medicolegal Death Investigator in the Oklahoma Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. They dive into how Philip's office is pioneering the use of drones in reshaping how death scenes are assessed. Philip also shares the vital work of a medicolegal death investigator, the benefits of using drones in his work, and insights on launching a drone program.

Philip also serves on the Board of the Oklahoma Office of the Chief Medical Examiner as an F-ABMDI member. He is also the Remote Pilot in Command for the Forensic Air Unit, operating drones to investigate death scenes in the Tulsa area. Authorized by a Certificate of Waiver or Authorization, he has been a member of the Board of Directors at the Society of Medicolegal Death Investigators (SOMDI) since March 2021.

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts.   Instructions on how to do this are here.
Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Previous Guests include: Matt Rowland, Jason Burnside

Check out our 3 most downloaded episodes:
]]> Tue, 04 Jun 2024 11:00:00 +0000 John McLeod John McLeod 2052 In this episode of Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time, host John McLeod speaks to Philip Miller, Medicolegal Death Investigator in the Oklahoma Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. They dive into how Philip's office is pioneering the use of drones in reshaping how death scenes are assessed. Philip also shares the vital work of a medicolegal death investigator, the benefits of using drones in his work, and insights on launching a drone program. In this episode of Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time, host John McLeod speaks to Philip Miller, Medicolegal Death Investigator in the Oklahoma Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. They dive into how Philip's office is pioneering the use of drones in reshaping how death scenes are assessed. Philip also shares the vital work of a medicolegal death investigator, the benefits of using drones in his work, and insights on launching a drone program. No No Small Communities: Perfect for DFRs with Chris Baker, Oswego’s Drone & Robotics Coordinator https://podcasts.fame.so/e/r8kmjq38-chris-baker-oswego Small Communities: Perfect for DFRs with Chris Baker, Oswego’s Drone & Robotics Coordinator 4 No No 71w79q81 In this episode of Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time, host John McLeod speaks to Chris Baker, Systems Administrator and Drone & Robotics Coordinator for the City of Oswego. They discuss Oswego’s drone program, why small cities are perfect for Drone First Responders, and how he maintains relationships with stakeholders to keep the program running. In this episode of Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time, host John McLeod speaks to Chris Baker, Systems Administrator and Drone & Robotics Coordinator for the City of Oswego. They discuss Oswego’s drone program, why small cities are perfect for Drone First Responders, and how he maintains relationships with stakeholders to keep the program running.

Chris has been involved with the City of Oswego in a technical capacity for the past five years, moving into the drone and robotics program in the last two years. Oswego’s drone program is unique; it's run by the city’s IT department and funded with their tech budget, instead of being the responsibility of the fire or police department. 

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Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

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]]> Tue, 21 May 2024 11:00:00 +0000 John McLeod John McLeod 1905 In this episode of Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time, host John McLeod speaks to Chris Baker, Systems Administrator and Drone & Robotics Coordinator for the City of Oswego. They discuss Oswego’s drone program, why small cities are perfect for Drone First Responders, and how he maintains relationships with stakeholders to keep the program running. In this episode of Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time, host John McLeod speaks to Chris Baker, Systems Administrator and Drone & Robotics Coordinator for the City of Oswego. They discuss Oswego’s drone program, why small cities are perfect for Drone First Responders, and how he maintains relationships with stakeholders to keep the program running. No No Establishing a Drone First Responder Program with Matt Rowland of FWPD https://podcasts.fame.so/e/xnymxz2n-matt-rowland-fwpd Establishing a Drone First Responder Program with Matt Rowland of FWPD 3 No No l14n3xq1 In this episode of Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time, host John McLeod speaks to Matt Rowland, Air Support Unit sUAS Pilot for the Fort Wayne Police Department. They discuss the reality of starting a drone first responder program, what it was like to run drones for President Trump in 2018, and how to make the right decisions when building a program from the ground up. In this episode of Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time, host John McLeod speaks to Matt Rowland, Air Support Unit sUAS Pilot for the Fort Wayne Police Department. They discuss the reality of starting a drone first responder program, what it was like to run drones for President Trump in 2018, and how to make the right decisions when building a program from the ground up.

For the past 18 years, Matt has been involved with FWPD, including acting as a founding member of the drone program (the ASU), which started in 2017 when the Lieutenant wanted to incorporate drones as overwatch on SWAT calls. In 2021, he helped roll out the Drone First Responder, and he has been mapping car crashes and outdoor crime scenes with drones since 2018. He truly is a pioneer in innovating with drones in the public safety space.

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Episode Resources:
Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Previous Guests include: Matt Rowland, Jason Burnside

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]]> Tue, 07 May 2024 11:00:00 +0000 John McLeod John McLeod 2454 In this episode of Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time, host John McLeod speaks to Matt Rowland, Air Support Unit sUAS Pilot for the Fort Wayne Police Department. They discuss the reality of starting a drone first responder program, what it was like to run drones for President Trump in 2018, and how to make the right decisions when building a program from the ground up. In this episode of Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time, host John McLeod speaks to Matt Rowland, Air Support Unit sUAS Pilot for the Fort Wayne Police Department. They discuss the reality of starting a drone first responder program, what it was like to run drones for President Trump in 2018, and how to make the right decisions when building a program from the ground up. No No Building Credibility and Legitimacy in Firefighter Acceptance of Drones with Jason Burnside of the RED Team https://podcasts.fame.so/e/v8wk3k58-jason-burnside2-red-team Building Credibility and Legitimacy in Firefighter Acceptance of Drones with Jason Burnside of the RED Team 2 No No 80xn9nx0 In part two of this episode of Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time, host John McLeod speaks to Jason Burnside, Program Manager for the Austin Fire Department's Robotics Emergency Deployment (RED) Team. They explore how drones are becoming first responders in public safety and the challenges of training and maintaining proficiency in drone operations. hey also delve into the political and data security concerns surrounding drones and the importance of building trust with the community. In part two of this episode of Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time, host John McLeod speaks to Jason Burnside, Program Manager for the Austin Fire Department's Robotics Emergency Deployment (RED) Team. They explore how drones are becoming first responders in public safety and the challenges of training and maintaining proficiency in drone operations. hey also delve into the political and data security concerns surrounding drones and the importance of building trust with the community.

With an initial background in theater and acting, Jason shifted to firefighting, where he brought a unique perspective to the RED team. Passionate about aviation and technology, he became deeply involved in integrating drone technology into firefighting. Established in January 2014, the RED team started as a small volunteer group and has grown to 35 pilots. Today, they focus on sharing their expertise and experiences with other agencies, helping them to accelerate their development in emergency response through the innovative use of drones.

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts, instructions on how to do this are here.
Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Previous Guests include: Matt Rowland, Jason Burnside

Check out our 3 most downloaded episodes:
]]> Tue, 23 Apr 2024 17:10:00 +0000 John McLeod John McLeod 2277 In part two of this episode of Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time, host John McLeod speaks to Jason Burnside, Program Manager for the Austin Fire Department's Robotics Emergency Deployment (RED) Team. They explore how drones are becoming first responders in public safety and the challenges of training and maintaining proficiency in drone operations. hey also delve into the political and data security concerns surrounding drones and the importance of building trust with the community. In part two of this episode of Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time, host John McLeod speaks to Jason Burnside, Program Manager for the Austin Fire Department's Robotics Emergency Deployment (RED) Team. They explore how drones are becoming first responders in public safety and the challenges of training and maintaining proficiency in drone operations. hey also delve into the political and data security concerns surrounding drones and the importance of building trust with the community. No No Integrating Drones into Firefighting Operations with Jason Burnside of the RED Team https://podcasts.fame.so/e/58z9q97n-jason-burnside1-red-team Integrating Drones into Firefighting Operations with Jason Burnside of the RED Team 1 No No 81zkjkn0 In part one of this episode of Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time, host John McLeod speaks to Jason Burnside, Program Manager for the Austin Fire Department's Robotics Emergency Deployment (RED) Team. They discuss how drones can enhance public safety, make firefighters' jobs easier and safer, the challenges of integrating drones into fire departments, and the future potential of augmented reality and autonomous launching. In part one of this episode of Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time, host John McLeod speaks to Jason Burnside, Program Manager for the Austin Fire Department's Robotics Emergency Deployment (RED) Team. They discuss how drones can enhance public safety, make firefighters' jobs easier and safer, the challenges of integrating drones into fire departments, and the future potential of augmented reality and autonomous launching.

With an initial background in theater and acting, Jason shifted to firefighting, where he brought a unique perspective to the RED team. Passionate about aviation and technology, he became deeply involved in integrating drone technology into firefighting. Established in January 2014, the RED team started as a small volunteer group and has grown to 35 pilots. Today, they focus on sharing their expertise and experiences with other agencies, helping them to accelerate their development in emergency response through the innovative use of drones.

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts, instructions on how to do this are here.
Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Previous Guests include: Matt Rowland, Jason Burnside

Check out our 3 most downloaded episodes:
]]> Tue, 09 Apr 2024 11:00:00 +0000 John McLeod John McLeod 2002 In part one of this episode of Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time, host John McLeod speaks to Jason Burnside, Program Manager for the Austin Fire Department's Robotics Emergency Deployment (RED) Team. They discuss how drones can enhance public safety, make firefighters' jobs easier and safer, the challenges of integrating drones into fire departments, and the future potential of augmented reality and autonomous launching. In part one of this episode of Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time, host John McLeod speaks to Jason Burnside, Program Manager for the Austin Fire Department's Robotics Emergency Deployment (RED) Team. They discuss how drones can enhance public safety, make firefighters' jobs easier and safer, the challenges of integrating drones into fire departments, and the future potential of augmented reality and autonomous launching. No No Dronecast | Trailer https://podcasts.fame.so/e/1npk9kv8-dronecast-trailer Dronecast | Trailer 0 No No z0rywy31 In a world marked by an array of challenges, such as natural disasters and unforeseen crises, our public safety personnel need more support than ever before. Enter: Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time, the new podcast exploring the real-world applications of drones in emergency response The challenges that our emergency responders have to face never stop coming and never stop evolving. That’s why the way that we tackle those challenges to public safety has to keep evolving alongside it.

It’s time to start a conversation about drones. It’s time to rethink public safety, one drone at a time.

Nearly time for take off!

#dronesense #drones #publicsafety


Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Previous Guests include: Matt Rowland, Jason Burnside

Check out our 3 most downloaded episodes:
]]> Mon, 08 Apr 2024 10:00:00 +0000 John McLeod John McLeod 55 In a world marked by an array of challenges, such as natural disasters and unforeseen crises, our public safety personnel need more support than ever before. Enter: Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time, the new podcast exploring the real-world applications of drones in emergency response In a world marked by an array of challenges, such as natural disasters and unforeseen crises, our public safety personnel need more support than ever before. Enter: Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time, the new podcast exploring the real-world applications of drones in emergency response No No