DRONE ON

What if Uber paid their drivers with tokens? This episode explores how tokenization and decentralization are creating new economic models for drone-based businesses and the pilots who power them.Matt Chwierut brings over a decade of experience to break down complex concepts like tokens, token-powered networks, and how they differ from traditional platform models. He explains why LayerDrone chose to build on blockchain, what it means for drone pilots to be paid in tokens rather than cash, and how this approach creates a fundamentally different relationship between contributors and the networks they help build.From the evolution of open-source protocols to the limitations of platform-based models like Uber, Matt explains how tokens offer a third path—one that combines the openness of protocols with aligned financial incentives for all participants.Guest: Matt Chwierut, Head of Crypto, Spexi Geospatial, Inc.Discussed:What is a token? Understanding provably scarce digital assets and how they differ from traditional digital currenciesToken-powered networks: The third way between open-source protocols and centralized platformsWhy LayerDrone chose blockchain: Moving beyond the "Uber for drones" model to give pilots a stake in the networkDePIN (Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Networks): How physical infrastructure meets blockchain incentivesPilot empowerment: Why paying pilots in tokens creates fundamentally different economics than cash-based platformsThe future of decentralized work: Coordinating skilled human contributors in non-fungible work through tokenizationTimestamps:[00:00] Introduction to DRONE ON[01:00] Guest introduction: Matt Chwierut's decade in Web3[03:00] What is a token? Breaking down the basics[05:00] Token-powered networks: A third path for digital infrastructure[08:00] The problems with traditional platform models[11:00] What is DePIN and why it matters for drones[15:00] Why LayerDrone chose to build on blockchain[18:00] How paying pilots in tokens is different from paying in cash[23:00] Where to learn more about LayerDrone[23:30] "Bryce is Wrong" segment: Blockchain stories from 2018Hosted by Bryce Bladon (brycebladon.com) | Edited by AJ Fillari (ajfillari.online) | Sponsored by Spexi.com & LayerDrone.org

Daniel shares his journey from building DIY drones in 2014 to becoming a professional Drone First Responder. With roughly 1,000 missions flown with Spexi for the LayerDrone network, Daniel discusses the competitive nature of drone work, the importance of staying calm under pressure, and how fly-to-earn opportunities reignited his passion for aviation.00:38 Introduction to Daniel Whitfield, Drone First Responder05:27 A DFR's Work Week09:49 Special Segment: The Bryce is WrongDiscussed:Breaking into professional drone work through SpexiLife as a Drone First Responder (DFR) supporting police and emergency servicesOptimizing flight strategies for maximum efficiency on the Spexi appBalancing emergency response work with mapping missionsHighlights"Spexi motivated me to get my Part 107, which eventually elevated me to this job where I get to be on top of the world.""You gotta have kind of a spirit of wonder. You wanna just push for what hasn't been done before."Connect with DanielYouTube: Aerial CinemaThe rest of the internet: CloudyConnexHosted by Bryce Bladon (brycebladon.com) | Edited by AJ Fillari (ajfillari.online) Sponsored by Spexi.com | LayerDrone.org

Rowan Weismiller, an engineer at Spexi, dives into the intersection of drones and blockchain technology. He highlights how Spexi uses NFTs as flight receipts for immutable pilot records and discusses the transition to a decentralized system with smart contracts. Rowan also explores the ambitious goal of creating a world-standard for aerial imagery and the challenges that come with it. Plus, he shares insights on how dormant drone supplies can be a goldmine for network growth, emphasizing the importance of transparent and deterministic blockchain use.

Discover how mapping technology has evolved from static maps to dynamic, contextually aware tools. The discussion highlights the shift from Mapping 1.0's fixed coordinates to 2.0's real-time navigation, leading to the insightful capabilities of Mapping 3.0. Learn about groundbreaking advancements like machine learning traffic predictions, augmented reality overlays, and the importance of multidimensional data. Understand how drones and AI are transforming mapping into a foundational layer that influences various applications and industries.

Bill Lakeland, CEO and co-founder of Spexi Geospatial, dives into how his company is reshaping spatial data with a decentralized drone network. He highlights how Spexi captures imagery at an astonishing 3cm resolution, far surpassing traditional methods in both quality and cost. Bill discusses the revolutionary role of blockchain for data authentication and scaling, plus the exciting real-world uses for industries like insurance and emergency response. Discover how Spexi's approach could redefine mapping and improve real-time decision-making.

Bryce Bladon shares his fascinating journey from co-founding CryptoKitties to exploring the transformative power of drone infrastructure. He highlights how the drone industry, valued at around $90 billion, is set to surpass the video game sector. The conversation delves into the potential of blockchain for global drone networks, enabling frictionless payments and standardization. With consumer drones reaching new technological heights and demand skyrocketing across various sectors, Bryce emphasizes drones as foundational tools for mapping our world.

Introducing the DRONE ON podcast: mapping the tech, economics, and people building the world’s largest drone imagery network. Hosted by Bryce Bladon. Edited by AJ Fillari. Sponsored by Spexi.com and LayerDrone.org