Ask Drone U

Drone U

We’re Drone U, a group of guys who have turned their passion for flight into a profitable business. We love hearing from our fans, and we love helping by answering their questions. That’s why we started the Ask Drone U podcast in 2015. Since then, we are one of the largest, most popular DAILY drone podcasts out there. Each episode features an actual question submitted from someone just like you! We wish we could answer everyone’s question(s), but we’ll do our best to get through as many of them as we can. So plug in those headphones because it’s time to learn together about everything drone: FAA, insurance, business strategies, videography, drone tips, flight techniques, drone tricks, expert advice, cameras, gimbals, and so much more. #askdroneu

Episodes

Mentioned books

May 18, 2023 • 30min

Bonus: Interview with CSU’s Chris Robertson and all the inside news on the very first Drone Air Show in Colorado

Learn all about CSU's first Drone Air Show, an airshow dedicated to drones, drone manufacturers and for hands on experience flying the latest drones Today's episode is brought to you by Drone U Events scheduled for coming months in 2023 in CO. Are you ready to master 2D mapping and 3D modeling via Drones? Learn photogrammetry basics and master the principles of acquisition and processing allowing you to serve a wide range of customers at an unparalleled level. Join the Drone U Flight Crew for our 2023 Comprehensive Mapping Bootcamp to add mapping and modeling services to your tool belt. Check out our Events page. On today's show we have Colorado State University's Chris Robertson with whom we talk all about the first Drone Air Show. We start off today's episode introducing Chris to our audience and showcase some of his efforts in running CSU's flagship drone training program and how the CSU has developed a unique drone education course that combines theoretical and practical way to learn about drones and how CSU developed their own infrastructure for imparting this education. We then delve into the biggest news of CSU's upcoming Drone Air Show, an exclusive 3 day event that gives visitors and participants, manufacturers to showcase latest innovations to the public also giving people an opportunity to trial new products in a safe environment. Also part of the Drone Air Show is the exclusive light show on CSU campus showcasing the unique ability of drones to provide stunning visuals through synchronized movement of drones. Learn more about the upcoming Drone Air Show here and sign up for this unique and one of its kind show. Tune in today to learn how you can plan your pricing strategy and providing more value to your clients. Get Your Biggest and Most Common Drone Certificate Questions Answered by Downloading this FREE Part 107 PDF Make sure to get yourself the all-new Drone U landing pad! Get your questions answered: https://thedroneu.com/. If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is to subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us real quick? While you’re there, leave us a 5-star review, if you’re inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832. Become a Drone U Member. Access to over 30 courses, great resources, and our incredible community. Follow Us Site – https://thedroneu.com/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/droneu Instagram – https://instagram.com/thedroneu/ Twitter – https://twitter.com/thedroneu YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/c/droneu Timestamps: [00:38] Learn more about our guest for today, Chris Robertson and CSU's drone program [03:33] Chris talks about his favorite drone [05:40] Learn about the first Drone Air show in Fort Collins [13:00] Details of the Drone Light show on the CSU campus during the Drone Air show [16:03] Sign up details for the Drone Air show [22:11] How the new generation of drone pilots are getting trained and the state of jobs in drone industry

Apr 20, 2023 • 22min

ADU 1308: Should I put prices on website and should I stick to my guns on my prices?

How should pilots approach pricing? Are there best ways to present your pricing to your customers? Today's episode is brought to you by Drone U Events scheduled for coming months in 2023 in CO. Are you ready to master 2D mapping and 3D modeling via Drones? Learn photogrammetry basics and master the principles of acquisition and processing allowing you to serve a wide range of customers at an unparalleled level. Join the Drone U Flight Crew for our 2023 Comprehensive Mapping Bootcamp to add mapping and modeling services to your tool belt. Today's show is about pricing and how should pilots approach the topic of pricing and present their pricing to clients. Our question for today is from Steve who would like to know if its good to publish one's pricing on their website or if there are better ways to present pricing options for clients. Thanks for the question, Steve. We answer today's question by speaking about what customers seek in deliverables and how pilots can effectively showcase the value they provide through their deliverable which in turn helps with pricing. We discuss the cons of providing pricing on clients for each type of job and why pilots should refrain from providing pricing info on their website. However we do recommend and discuss putting pricing packaging on portfolio website. We also discuss how having and building right relations in the drone industry is critical to pricing and developing the right relations can accomplish pricing targets. Tune in today to learn how you can plan your pricing strategy and providing more value to your clients. Get Your Biggest and Most Common Drone Certificate Questions Answered by Downloading this FREE Part 107 PDF Make sure to get yourself the all-new Drone U landing pad! Get your questions answered: https://thedroneu.com/. If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is to subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us real quick? While you’re there, leave us a 5-star review, if you’re inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832. Become a Drone U Member. Access to over 30 courses, great resources, and our incredible community. Follow Us Site – https://thedroneu.com/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/droneu Instagram – https://instagram.com/thedroneu/ Twitter – https://twitter.com/thedroneu YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/c/droneu Timestamps: [01:11] Learn about Drone U's unperson Mapping Bootcamp on June 26 [03:30] Today's question on pricing your services [05:03] How to deliver and communicate the value of your services through your deliveries [08:47] Is it worth putting your pricing on your website? How about packages? [17:03] Why building relations is a better approach that getting stuck with deciding on pricing

Apr 17, 2023 • 33min

EDL 004: Elevating Drone Life: Interview with Glenn Labay and the art of being great at what you do

Welcome to Elevating Drone Life, the podcast for drone professionals !! We are super excited to announce the launch of Elevating Drone Life, our new podcast show hosted by PJ Kirkpatrick, Director of Operations, Drone U. Elevating Drone Life is a podcast for drone professionals by drone professionals. It is a podcast that takes you on a journey through the exciting and ever-evolving world of drone technology. Each week, we'll be speaking with professionals from all walks of the drone industry, Drone U Elite Instructors and members to learn about their experiences, insights, and tips for success. We'll explore the latest trends in drone technology, dive into real-world applications, and uncover the unique challenges and opportunities facing today's drone pilots. On our show today, we talk to seasoned pilot and drone operator Glenn Labay, owner of aerialcamservice.com and Drone U Elite Pilot and learn his approach to drone flying, client management, equipment and the art of being successful in drone business. Glenn comes with decades of experience in drone piloting and running successful business and shares his know all with PJ on our show today. Glenn talk about how he got into the world of drones, his work with his first drone and how he maintains a mindset that allows him to continuously grow and explore new opportunities. Learn how Glenn uses hacks to improve customer experience and increase business. Glenn also shares his insights on equipment, flight practice time and shares the benefits of innovative in the drone world. Lastly listen what motivates Glenn to train pilots through the DUE initiative and what keep Glenn excelling through every drone job. Tune in to this show as we explore the fascinating world of drone technology and discover the amazing insights from Glenn in the drone industry. Get Your Biggest and Most Common Drone Certificate Questions Answered by Downloading this FREE Part 107 PDF Make sure to get yourself the all-new Drone U landing pad! Get your questions answered: https://thedroneu.com/. If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is to subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us real quick? While you’re there, leave us a 5-star review, if you’re inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832. Become a Drone U Member. Access to over 30 courses, great resources, and our incredible community. Follow Us Site – https://thedroneu.com/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/droneu Instagram – https://instagram.com/thedroneu/ Twitter – https://twitter.com/thedroneu YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/c/droneu Timestamps: [01:53] Learn about Glenn - Our guest for today [08:48] Glenn talks about the importance of practice and muscle memory [09:48] Drone U Elite experience and Glenn's experience with being a DUE pilot [11:03] Cinematography jobs and marketing production videos for clients [15:08] The importance of having the right equipment for various jobs and being good at your work [19:33] Glenn shares the benefits of being innovative with production delivery [27:49] What motivates Glenn to train others

Apr 12, 2023 • 18min

ADU 1307: Whats the best career path for pilots in real estate to pursue?

How should pilots plan their career in real estate? Are there any optimal paths to pursue? Today's episode is brought to you by Drone U Events scheduled for coming months in 2023 in CO. Are you ready to master 2D mapping and 3D modeling via Drones? Learn photogrammetry basics and master the principles of acquisition and processing allowing you to serve a wide range of customers at an unparalleled level. Join the Drone U Flight Crew for our 2023 Comprehensive Mapping Classes to add mapping and modeling services to your tool belt. Today's show is about the ideal career paths for drone pilots to pursue in the changing drone industry. Our question for today is from Jake who is wanting to know the best route for him to pursue in the real estate industry. Should Jake focus on inspections or focus on core real estate opportunities such as videography and photography. Thank you for the question Jake. Paul and Rob answer today's question by listing the opportunities in the real estate industry and sharing their take on how the industry is set to evolve. Paul also elaborates how pilots can choose to use their existing networking connections rather than focusing on developing new prospects and the many advantages in using this technique for finding new work. We also discuss the many opportunities available for pilots in the real estate industries and how pilots can grab these opportunities. Tune in today to learn how pilots can effectively navigate and build a successful career in real estate. Get Your Biggest and Most Common Drone Certificate Questions Answered by Downloading this FREE Part 107 PDF Make sure to get yourself the all-new Drone U landing pad! Get your questions answered: https://thedroneu.com/. If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is to subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us real quick? While you’re there, leave us a 5-star review, if you’re inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832. Become a Drone U Member. Access to over 30 courses, great resources, and our incredible community. Follow Us Site – https://thedroneu.com/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/droneu Instagram – https://instagram.com/thedroneu/ Twitter – https://twitter.com/thedroneu YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/c/droneu Timestamps: [01:45] Today's question on best route of work for real estate [03:00] Paul's recommendation on options and opportunities available for drone pilots on inspections [06:42] Does a pilot's current connections hold more value compared to fresh prospects and the future of real estate opportunities for drone pilots [14:42] Final comments from today's show on jobs, opportunities, future of drone industry and how pilots should structure their future

Apr 2, 2023 • 10min

ADU 1306: What can Drone pilots do if NOTAM’s are not available?

What can pilots do if NOTAMs are not available? Are there alternatives for pilots? Today's episode is brought to you by Drone U Events scheduled for coming months in 2023 in CO. Are you ready to master 2D mapping and 3D modeling via Drones? Learn photogrammetry basics and master the principles of acquisition and processing allowing you to serve a wide range of customers at an unparalleled level. Join the Drone U Flight Crew for our 2023 Comprehensive Mapping Classes to add mapping and modeling services to your tool belt. Today's show is about NOTAMs and flying and conducting missions in their absence and how pilots can ensure the safety and other regulatory compliance in the absence of NOTAMs. Our question for today is from Jordan who would like to know how pilots can conduct flight missions in the absence of NOTAMs and in such scenarios how can pilots demonstrate their ability to conduct safe missions. As our listeners know, NOTAM checks are mandate of Part 107 requirements and often included in pre-flight checks by pilots. The absence of NOTAMs can potentially lead to pilot confusion. Rob and Paul discuss the requirements of NOTAMs followed by steps that drone pilots can follow to ensure they demonstrate the safety compliance during flights. Paul also shares hack pilots can use to ensure compliance to regulations in the event of absence of NOTAMs and should pilots be held liable for conducting checks during such a time. Tune in today to learn how pilots can effectively navigate challenging scenarios and ensure compliance to regulations. Get Your Biggest and Most Common Drone Certificate Questions Answered by Downloading this FREE Part 107 PDF Make sure to get yourself the all-new Drone U landing pad! Get your questions answered: https://thedroneu.com/. If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is to subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us real quick? While you’re there, leave us a 5-star review, if you’re inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832. Become a Drone U Member. Access to over 30 courses, great resources, and our incredible community. Follow Us Site – https://thedroneu.com/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/droneu Instagram – https://instagram.com/thedroneu/ Twitter – https://twitter.com/thedroneu YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/c/droneu Timestamps: [01:56] Today's question on NOTAMs and how can pilots manage flight missions when NOTAMs are down [04:02] What are the requirements related to NOTAMs that pilots must be aware of And alternatives available for pilots [05:51] Things that drone pilots can do in the absence of no NOTAMs [06:28] Ways by which pilots can ensure safety during missions

Apr 1, 2023 • 30min

ADU 1305: How can I shift my drone side business as my full time business?

Running a side business using drones? How can you make or prep for the switch to making it a permanent business? Today's episode is brought to you by In-person Experience training scheduled for May 2023 in CO. In this unique training event, limited to ONLY 8 participants, you will be immersed in an experienced-based learning environment. You'll take flight daily and often, and you'll master cutting-edge drone techniques along the way. Learn from experienced pilots to get the most out of your drone. Also, build repeatable systems to scale your business. You will be one of only 8 pilots to spend an entire week flying, learning, and mixing with the Drone U Flight Crew. Think of this training as a drone retreat… as we'll hang out together at a resort style mountain location. Through the use of scenario-based missions, one-on-one coaching, and a competitive (but fun) environment, participants will expand their skill set and join the ranks of an elite group of drone pilots who command top dollar for their sought-after skills. Today's show is on running and growing a drone business as your main source of income. Our question for today is from Justin from British Colombia, Canada, who is currently running a drone business as a side business outside of his regular employment. Justin would like to know how he can prep on transitioning from a side business to permanent drone business. Thanks for the question Justin. On today's show we discuss about setting yourself up for success by providing a framework for drone pilots to prep to delve into full time business. We talk about the mindsets, networking, focusing on areas of expertise and discuss how pilots can navigate through macro economic challenges and why all aim and no fire is never a good strategy. If you are looking to delve into full time drone business but are apprehensive or never feel too prepared, Tune In Today's show for all the right strategies !! Get Your Biggest and Most Common Drone Certificate Questions Answered by Downloading this FREE Part 107 PDF Make sure to get yourself the all-new Drone U landing pad! Get your questions answered: https://thedroneu.com/. If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is to subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us real quick? While you’re there, leave us a 5-star review, if you’re inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832. Become a Drone U Member. Access to over 30 courses, great resources, and our incredible community. Follow Us Site – https://thedroneu.com/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/droneu Instagram – https://instagram.com/thedroneu/ Twitter – https://twitter.com/thedroneu YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/c/droneu Timestamps: [02:01] Learn more about Drone U's in-person Experience Training [04:06] Today's question on advise for a drone business owner on growing a drone business [06:00] Do creative jobs hold consistency like tech jobs and the value of utilizing existing networks and finding a balance between work and passion [10:03] How drone business owners can plan their growth strategy [13:21] Utilizing your location and its advantages for driving business [14:25] How macro economics can impact the decision to switching to running a full time business [22:30] Does a looming recession cause an impact on companies employing drone pilots and make the switch to contractors again? [22:30] Does a looming recession cause an impact on companies employing drone pilots and make the switch to contractors again? [24:55] How pilots can prep for a switch from current job to a permanent drone

Mar 28, 2023 • 33min

EDL 003: Elevating Drone Life: Interview with Izzy and the importance of experience and building confidence

Welcome to Elevating Drone Life, the podcast for drone professionals !! We are super excited to announce the launch of Elevating Drone Life, our new podcast show hosted by PJ Kirkpatrick, Director of Operations, Drone U. Elevating Drone Life is a podcast for drone professionals by drone professionals. It is a podcast that takes you on a journey through the exciting and ever-evolving world of drone technology. Each week, we'll be speaking with professionals from all walks of the drone industry, Drone U Elite Instructors and members to learn about their experiences, insights, and tips for success. We'll explore the latest trends in drone technology, dive into real-world applications, and uncover the unique challenges and opportunities facing today's drone pilots. On our show today, we talk to Izzy Mohamed, Drone U Elite pilot, owner Skeye Atlantic and long time tech and RC enthusiastic about his experience in the drone industry and about growing a drone business. Izzy has always been a tech and RC enthusiastic and been fascinated by the benefits of technology and its impact in modern day life. Izz talks to PJ on how he got started in the drone industry and his early days with training and practice. Izzy talks about the drones he has flow starting from the early Syma to the Phantoms to the newest Mavics. He also shares how he uses tech gadgets for generating awesome deliverables for his clients and the importance of gaining experience and building confidence. Izzy and PJ also discuss Izzy's project including the recent recording of the Kuula course, Drone U's latest course on the Kuula platform, a course specific for real estate professionals. Tune in to this show as we explore the fascinating world of drone technology and discover the amazing insights from Izzy in the drone industry. Get Your Biggest and Most Common Drone Certificate Questions Answered by Downloading this FREE Part 107 PDF Make sure to get yourself the all-new Drone U landing pad! Get your questions answered: https://thedroneu.com/. If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is to subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us real quick? While you’re there, leave us a 5-star review, if you’re inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832. Become a Drone U Member. Access to over 30 courses, great resources, and our incredible community. Follow Us Site – https://thedroneu.com/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/droneu Instagram – https://instagram.com/thedroneu/ Twitter – https://twitter.com/thedroneu YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/c/droneu Timestamps: [00:44] Learn more about our guest today, Izzy Mohammed, and his work and services [02:02] What made Izzy get into mapping? [03:26] Izzy shares his early experience working on projects and jobs and the importance of confidence and experience [05:30] Izzy shares his take on starting a business [07:48] How did Izzy get involved with Drone U and become a Drone U Elite pilot [15:25] Izzy's go to drone - The Phantom 4 V2 [20:42] Izzy and PJ talk about Drone U's latest course that Izzy recently recorded - The Kuula course and its benefits for real estate. [23:15] Tips for drone pilots from Izzy

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