In this episode of Elevated & On The Go, I sit down with Tom Dowling to talk about the journey behind the work, the experiences that shape his life, and the community that keeps the drone industry growing.

Tom is retired from the New York Fire Department, a photographer, a drone operator, and an active leader in the Las Vegas drone community. Our conversation goes beyond drones and into the mindset of responsibility, the importance of showing up for others, and what it really means to live a life of purpose and adventure.

We talk about how Tom got started, his path into photography and drone work, and how those opportunities continue to evolve. We also share experiences from the desert, including his time joining us on Desert Escape, where off-road exploration, storytelling, and flying all come together in a way that shifts perspective.

We also dive into the Las Vegas Drone Meetup and why community matters more than ever, especially for those looking to grow, learn, and connect with others in this space.

This is a relaxed and real conversation about life, learning, and finding your path while staying grounded in responsibility and purpose.

Visit Tom’s YouTube channel

youtube.com/lenscaptureonline

Las Vegas Drone Meetup

https://vegasdronemeetup.com/

In this episode of Elevated and On The Go, I sit down with Brenda Wilson to talk about how drones and RC vehicles are being used to create real opportunities through hands on learning, mentorship, and community.

Brenda shares the story behind DieHard RC and how the skills developed through RC vehicles translate into drone operations, building confidence, coordination, and practical experience in a way that truly sticks.

We also talk about the vision behind 1000 Drones for 1000 Girls, a program focused on opening doors and creating pathways into technology and aviation. Brenda shares the impact she has seen and how these opportunities are helping shape the next generation.

Elevated and On The Go is where we talk with people making a difference through technology, education, and exploration.

Learn more and connect:

DieHard RC
https://www.facebook.com/DieHardRC
https://www.instagram.com/diehard_rc
https://youtube.com/@diehardrc2843

1000 Drones for 1000 Girls
https://1000dronesfor1000girls.org/

In this episode of Elevated and On The Go, Desi sits down with Deb Andrews, drone pilot, off-road enthusiast, and community builder, who is inspiring women to get out, explore, and fly with confidence.

Deb shares how she uses drones as a tool for inspiration, her adventures exploring gold claim areas, and the powerful communities she is helping build. From her Ladies off-road group to Lady Droners, Deb is creating welcoming spaces that encourage women to step outside their comfort zone and into adventure.

We also touch on her involvement with Drone Envisions tours and the importance of community in both the drone and off-road spaces.

This conversation is all about encouragement, exploration, and lifting others through shared experiences.

In this episode of Elevated & On The Go, I sit down with Maria Davis of Totality Films to talk about her journey into aerial cinematography and the experiences that shaped her creative path.

Maria shares what it has been like to grow in the drone and filmmaking space, what it meant to receive Emmy-level recognition, and how she continues to evolve as a storyteller. This conversation is about persistence, creative growth, and navigating a career that blends technology with visual storytelling.

Whether you are a filmmaker, pilot, or creative finding your own way, Maria’s story offers insight, perspective, and encouragement.

In this episode, Chris Tinard shares the journey of AZDroneFest, now entering its 8th year. He talks about how the festival has grown, what filmmakers and pilots can expect this year, and why aerial storytelling continues to inspire him.

Chris also opens up about his personal passion project — a documentary that blends creativity, community, and the power of real stories.

🎉 AZDroneFest 2026 submissions are open! Use code DroneDiva for a discount on your film entry.

A great listen for drone pilots, filmmakers, and anyone who loves stories told from above.