Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time

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 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 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.

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.