Why I left Ken Heron’s Thursday Night Live | Show Walk Out Explained

Hey everyone! Firstly, I would like to thank those who have reached out to me to check on me and show support. I have yet to have time to answer everyone but please know it means the world to me. I had no intention of commenting further on the live show and why I left. However, many people seem to want to know why I chose that moment and what my justification was.
This short video is intended to answer those questions and hopefully close this topic.
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If you have any questions or just want to reach out and say hey! My name is Sean, come and talk to me! [e-mail]

[@xjet]

This nicely coincides with part of my plans for 2022. Although (as most are aware) I am averse to the current levels of overregulation that are a burden on the hobby, I do not encourage anyone to fly BVLOS because you really do need to manage risk to a much higher level (because the risks associated with such activities are significantly higher). Personally, I rarely fly BVLOS for a number of reasons: 1. it's often pretty boring because BVLOS often means flying higher to get good signal and hikes risk 2. it's too far to walk if/when something goes wrong 3. it's hard to mitigate all the risks to an acceptable level in most places And remember -- this is the "anti-rules" guy talking! I certainly wouldn't fly BVLOS with a commercial camera-drone because they simply do not offer the levels of control needed to take avoiding action, should something unexpected suddenly appear in your field of view. For example, what's the maximum rate of descent for a Mavic, Phantom or Air2 should a helicopter suddenly appear in view at the same altitude you're flying and heading straight for you? And don't think you'll be able to see any approaching aircraft/heli because you have a great HD video feed. Even the good old Mark1 human eyeball (without the handicap of a video link) is sometimes inadequate for this task, as proven by the number of mid-air collisions between manned aircraft that happen all too often. We should recognise that *everyone* wants to know how far their drone will fly and what it's like to fly BVLOS but there are few locations where this can be done with near 100% safety. I plan to change this so that *everyone* can experience BVLOS at least once and learn that for most, it's really just not that much fun and not worth the risk. This is how you safely change user attitudes and behaviours (IMHO). Ken's a nice guy but I seldom have the patience to watch a show all the way through because the bias is more towards lightweight entertainment of a genre that doesn't appeal to me as much as Botgrinder Live. That's not an indictment against Ken's show it's simply showing my own personal preferences and tastes. However, Ken is seen by many to be a figurehead within the community so there is an unspoken responsibility to remind folk about what's safe and what's not. That may sound hypocritical from the guy who constantly rags on regulators and their rules -- but I do not promote the mindless breaking of rules, I promote safety and taking personal responsibility which is a totally different thing. The reality is that YT is filled with BVLOS videos and over the years there have been countless such flights made without incident (unlike paramotor flying and manned aviation where mid-air collisions are sadly a part of life/death). This speaks to the incredibly low intrinsic risk associates with all branches of the hobby. However, that does not mean we ought not still be striving to minimise risk whenever possible and discourage reckless engagement in higher-risk operations in unsuitable areas. Of course this is all just an opinion and, like all opinions, is worth no more than what you just paid for it :-D

[@Zbip57]

Agreed, Bruce. It's ridiculous to strictly interpret as illegal the brief moment a drone passes beyond visual line of sight when flying around a tree at the park. And one could even argue that this long distance flight wasn't particularly dangerous, as "proven" by the fact that no one was hurt by it. But clearly there's a huge difference here. The video does no one any favours. We have two very recognizable and famous KZbin personalities, with large followings, giggling while naughty and blatantly breaking FAA regulations. Don't be surprised when you deliberately poke a sleeping bear if it then wakes up and bites you. Unfortunately, if it results in even more stringent regulations, EVERYBODY gets bitten. Making stupid videos for entertainment's sake is fun, but not if it creates further potential consequences for the entire hobby.

[@xjet]

@@Zbip57 Several people have said that things like this could create harsher regulation but I disagree. If anything, this shows that *regulations* themselves do not ensure good practice. What reguators need to take away from this is that some people WILL fly BVLOS regardless of what the rules allow. The best way to deal with this is to provide areas where people can legally and *safely* fly BVLOS to get it out of their system. One of my goals for 2022 is to set up areas like this around the world. Places where you, I or anyone can go with their drone and fly as high and as far as their craft will allow. It's only by doing this that certain people will be able to get the desire to engage in such activities out of the way. If regulators are going to take their role seriously when it comes to safety then they're going to have to get more pragmatic -- or suffer the consequences.

[@Zbip57]

@@xjet "regulations themselves do not ensure good practice" So true. Some regulations are so stupid that even the authorities are too embarrassed to try enforcing them, like flying a tiny FPV mini-quad in one's own fenced backyard absent a visual observer. :) Regulations are worthless if they are unenforceable. But Ken's video is certainly pushing the boundaries of what is sensible. It has effectively teed up Billy as a hole-in-one enforcement case for the FAA. Ken wasn't flying the drone. He has nothing to lose, other than his integrity. He just gains more KZbin views by generating controversy. The FAA doesn't need to impose stricter regulations in this case. They merely need to enforce the existing ones. My complaint here is that the video serves no purpose other than to harm the hobby by further portraying us as a bunch of irresponsible hooligans flaunting the regulations. I offered up my drone flying services to our local cottage lake association to help map the spread of invasive aquatic weed growth. I even finally broke down my resistance and passed the tests to obtain my pilot's certificate and registered my Phantom so I can fly it legally again, as it's better suited to mapping than my Mavic Mini. They eventually declined my offer because their association insurance doesn't cover the use of "aircraft". "What if we get sued for VOYEURISM?" (I'm not kidding.) There is so much misinformation out there in the public, I'm afraid to fly my drone for fear of having it shot down someday. That's why I object when otherwise popular KZbin influencers do obviously stupid things.

[@edcbabc]

@@xjet "... that things like this could create harder regulation but I disagree. If anything this shows that regulations themselves to not create good practice ...". If the regulators were completely open minded and objective that would be one thing, but actually past situations show they are not, and since - as you have pointed out - there are, or at least may be, vested interests who would like to regulate us out of existence, bragging about flouting the rules surely just gives them ammunition.

[@VicMossPhotography]

Thank you Bruce, well said!

[@OriginaldoBo]

You know where I stand with this, you made the right call and have nothing but respect for you. Ken is about Ken and money that’s it, took me a while to realize it. He made it seem like Billy was begging for him to remove it. He asked twice and as a friend. Common decency is you set it to private or delete it. That’s what friends do. Here’s to a brilliant 2022 and leave the drama in 2021

[@VicMossPhotography]

"leave the drama in 2021". Let's hope.

[@ChristiaanRoest79]

Exactly, i fully agree with you Ken. And with Sean!

[@nickf6587]

Told you before , you’re the only Ken worth watching.😉

[@OneOfTheRobs]

Ken is my number one youtuber and will be. I will always trust him. But he was a dick in the discussion with Sean. But that doesn't mean that I hate Ken now and feel the need to choose a side.. I like Dono, and Ken Heron and Geeksvana.. 🤣

[@ChristiaanRoest79]

@@OneOfTheRobs Ken Heron is by far not my favorite KZbinr for drones. Not even close haha. The only thing he care about is views and money. His content sucks.

[@51Drones]

I’m sure this was difficult to publish Sean. Thanks for the courage and this further proves to me what a great human being you are. God bless and happy 2022!

[@LittleMountainLife]

Love seeing this support for Sean

[@Geeksvana]

Thank you Russ. I really appreciate the support from the drone community, especially from the creators I and so many other respect. Have a great 2022!

[@DroningaboutIreland]

Fair play Sean you showed great decorum during the live stream and were very diplomatic in your response tonight, Ken acts the clown that's fair enough but don't try and make peers and 'friends' out to be the same, glad you stayed true to your beliefs.

[@SCAerialsSteveCarpenter]

Hello Sean, wishing you and your family a Happy New Year! Brillant response, Sir. You took the high road, and I am happy you did during the live show and your response. We ALL need to be accountable for our actions because these are precisely the incidents government agencies will use to over control and regulate hobbyist and commercial drone pilots in your Country and ours. Hoping that the coming year will bring you much happiness, good health, safe flying, and prosperity.

[@jrparker16]

Well said, thank you for keeping the high ground. Happy New Year and Happy Flying!

[@ArtCoDroneSolutions]

Sean I wish you a happy new year. Thanks for standing your ground and giving us your side of the story. I watch TNL to be entertained and educated but this show left me feeling uneasy. I feel that 2022 will be a successful year for you and all those in the drone community. Keep up the great work my friend.

[@donology]

You definitely did the right thing. He interrupted and mocked you. Bang out of order and disrespectful.

[@mrpoobumhead857]

Well done ! very dignified and balanced response. Keep up the great work and have a great new year

[@keithwilson7358]

Great reply Sean I fully support your channel and your response Keep up the great work Happy New year

[@UKAbandonedMineExplores]

Bloody great, love that you stood up for yourself, proves that your genuine, could see you brewing up to that point, great that you were genuine in teh video, major respect.

[@LoneStarUAV]

Great statement Sean, much respect! Happy 2022!!!

[@mapperstwo]

Great Statement and agree with what you did. Happy New Year to you and your family and will always support your channel.

[@TheM0JEC]

Thanks for this Sean, I only half understood why you left TNL till I watched this. Knowing about the ‘behind the scenes’ aspect made it clearer. Keep up the good work.

[@dyna-drone1952]

Shawn I just wondered how you were doing and I Was trying to find your channel And I have been very busy with my business with my drone but you were always on the back of my mind and I wanted to try to find you and subscribe to your channel and to be able to be in touch with you I have a Lotta respect for you and I am very proud to know someone like you out there with your views and some of them may be different than my views but I respect that and I was very proud of you to do what you did by stepping away on Ken’s show I have a great respect for you because of that and I was glad to be able to find your channel and I subscribe do you and was glad to be able to find this particular explanation that you had put out I will be following what you put out there from now on I was very impressed with you when you actually knew who I was and what I did where Ken didn’t really know me and that made me feel good that you knew who I was and I appreciate that and I do have respect for you so I will be watching your stuff take care I’ll see you in the chat Dyna- Drone Bert French

[@phillipcoshatt6845]

Happy New Year 🎉🎉🎉 Sean I am glad y'all worked it out like you said we are grown men we all have different views.

[@danielq250]

Hey Sean, sending best festive wishes to you and family, and as a long time supporter of yours sending support in reference to this topic, much love

[@garygreeley8455]

Glad you guys worked things out. I think it’s great that you stood up for doing what’s right. Certified pilots like any other licensed professional need to hold themselves accountable. Thank you.

[@martinwhitaker5096]

I was surprised to see Ken doing that - especially with a drone weighing more than 250g. I agree it's important for the hobby as a whole that influential KZbinrs are seen to be promoting responsible flying.

[@Kovaction]

Well said Sean. Happy New Year!!!

[@Welshrobb]

Happy New year Sean 🎉. Great video. Your a top stand up guy. 100% behind you on this ..

[@LittleMountainLife]

Well said. I didn’t see the original show but appreciate you keeping consistent. 👍

[@AtlanticAerials]

Happy New Year Sean. Wishing you all the best and keep up the good work you do for all of us and as always be the better man

[@bwc1976]

Glad you two have come to an understanding!

[@charleshatmaker4425]

Good for you. We all got to stand up for what is right

[@aaron6516]

I have been hearing a ton about something Ken did... and it seems like it has more than a few professionals riled up. I appreciate what you do and thank you for it... even if you are halfway around the world. Happy New Year! And best wishes!!

[@publicsafetyrobotics7068]

Well said, Sean. Complete respect for you and how you handled the situation. Happy New Year, sir.

[@1EyeInTheSky]

Well said Sean. Thank you for this explanation even though I know it must have been difficult to publish. Happy New Year sir.

[@JohnnieDroneFlyer]

Sean. Happy New Year. Love you and your content and you are entitled to your comments just like anyone on KZbin.

[@Okie-Tom]

I completely understand your view of the situation. And I agree with you that your leaving the show would actually be best for you. I enjoy your content and will continue to enjoy it as long as you keep putting up videos I am interested in. Take care. Tom

[@SEPK09]

There are informative and general useful KZbinrs and then there are those that want likes and subs only, your doing the best job which helps people

[@dronewerxtt]

Happy 2022 Sean and Well done!

[@originafreerangechicken]

I appreciate the way you’ve handled this. Great job.

[@Fourwheeljive]

You have my hundred percent support and respect sir!

[@bobell69]

A difficult video to do Sean. Good on you for the explanation. I found the Thursdays show upsetting and I understand your reasons for leaving when you did.

[@MudballDon]

Thanks Sean. For what it’s worth there were quite a few viewers of that show who understood the situation and supported your decision. At the very least, it sparked a lively discussion in the comment section the next day.

[@jaysantiago6385]

Sean Happy New Year! Sorry this happened to you because you're a Great guy.

[@NickHarbornePhotography]

Happy New Year Sean im completely with you on this one...

[@dronewerxtt]

Same here

[@QCGUY]

Don't remove this video! After watching this is was good to go see the live as it played out on Kens channel and although I agree with him more so on FAA "rules" I side with you. Both of you had good points, you expressed yourself very well and he flat out disrespected you. To mute you was complete BS on his part and he can say hahah Sean I was just joshing with ya hehehe 🙄but doing it twice and having his cute little game with you spoke for itself. He's all about Ken and Ken only at the end of the day not anyone else which is why he got someone else to do the flights and used their footage. Lessons learned for both you and Billy but this will not change anything about Ken because all he is doing now is sitting in his piss puddle on the floor laughing.

[@gmivisualsjason3729]

I didn't pick up on him twice muting his microphone. And originally felt Ken was just trying to lighten the air with the silly British rules part. After all I suppose the bvlos rule Billy ignored and Ken showed/defended was an American rule in this instance. But yes after watching it again including Sean's video and reading many of the comments I completely agree with what you've said.

[@gregwade7974]

This is such a shame, but you stood by your principles and did what you had to do. I must admit, I was slightly taken aback by Ken’s obviously planned response of ‘belittlement’ showing that he wasn’t really being sincere throughout your whole conversation. I am a fan of Ken and his general outlook on life, but sometimes things have to be dealt with in a more serious manner, and he clearly failed to do that. I’ll still be a follower of you both, but I’m about to pursue a serious career in UAV piloting, so your professionalism is very much appreciated and extremely useful to me. Keep up the good work Sean. Ps, I’m still eagerly awaiting my pre-ordered Nano plus, I’m assuming we’ll get them at the same time and looking forward to your unboxing video and sharing opinions with yourself.. 👍

[@FlyinFlynnMedia]

Thanks Sean! Appreciate you.

[@187Killerbee]

Well explained Sean. Happy New Year!!

[@kb9liq]

Thank you for the video. I was only kind of half watching the first part of TNL that night because I was trying to get something else done. So I was not sure what happened. Rewatched that part of the show so I could understand and I have not watched anything Ken has posted since. We all need to understand each of us have our opinion and that we do not have to agree but we do need to respect that. Every time you tried to explain yourself Ken made a joke or cut you off and that is not right. And now knowing you really wished to not be on the show and he was the one really wanting you to be there really shows how far he will go to make money. And that is sad. Ken has a full time job yet I bet he is making more off his youtube, and maybe even several times more. Ken can put on a good show and I did enjoy watching but for his 200th show I signed up to be a patron or whatever it is called to have a chance for some of the prizes that night. But for whatever reason it never showed on the channel like it should have. It was taking my money and I was able to see all the backstage stuff but it never showed that I was a member on youtube. Sent several messages to Ken in hopes of fixing the issue and never heard one thing back. Even posted on several live stream right after that 200th show and never got any fix for it. So I stopped paying Ken any more money and just kind of wrote it off as he was just too busy to care about one person. Now I know is was just about the money.

[@nicknibblerargh]

Bit of an awkward watch but well done for you standing your ground and standing up for your beliefs. Love both of your video's and glad you have been able to speak man to man and hopefully all parties can move forward without impact

[@hoverlogix5554]

Thank you 😊. Well done 👍

[@El_Smeghead]

You know I love both you and Ken (You're the only 2 memberships I have on youtube), but Ken did cross a line here. The Queen thing didn't bother me at all, because nowadays she actually DOES have a 'tache! However everyone flies... Fly safe everyone! #DronesForGood. Let's not give the great unwashed public ammunition against our awesome hobby and community of friends.

[@acarp4766]

Try Joshua Bardwell... If you can't build'em and program'em I dont see any reason to talk about regulation.... You just being flown, not flying otherwise

[@billgrace9415]

One of the hazardous negative terms that are expressed in the 107 exam is "Macho" and Invulnerability" that Billy Kyle expressed as a PIC. and Ken expressed "Machoism" by posting both are negative attributes of a responsible 107 Pilot.

[@obrutrenut]

Sean well done for standing by your principles I wondered what was going on when I was reading other you tubers about something that had happened Had no idea it involved you

[@TheDroneDad]

I don't want to comment much, but wanted to show my support and thanks to Geeksvana for your unwavering ethics and morals. It would be so easy to disregard the rules, but you didn't. That goes a long way, and I admire your conviction in the face of adversity and convenience. God bless you. Proud of how you handled it.

[@gmdronesuk3425]

Totally on your side Sean. Fully behind you on your decision.

[@johnscott1956]

Glad you two worked it out. I will not comment on the issue. You two are power houses in the drone world and it's good to have you talking again. Missed you the rest of the evening.

[@MikeMillerDrones]

I have lost all respect for Ken Heron. What he did in the video was bad enough, but on TNL he not only blew it off like it was nothing, but he also came at you, disrespected you, insulted your country and tried to make a mockery of the whole situation. I lost a lot of respect ken when he made a video where he flew the new FPV drone for a maiden flight in a park full of people. Flying over kids heads, coming ridiculously close to people walking by. No one said anything then because, well he's Ken Heron, everyone worships the ground he walks on. The guy needs to step back and evaluate his actions. If he doesn't, the drone community will see him for what he really is and his popularity will crumble. At the very least, he owes you a very public apology.

[@johnnymac26]

Happy new year mate onwards and upwards.

[@GreckoIndie]

Just a quick message of support Sean after watching Herons show to get balance. Needless to say his arrogance is what I expected after watching 10 mins of his show about 6 months ago. Keep doing what you do Bro and keep true to yourself and subscribers and a Happy New year.

[@gazjt7550]

Never seen it before so had a look and I'm not keen so no loss. Good for you sticking to your principles

[@troyhanohano]

Well said. I agree with you. You’re a true professional!

[@splitrock]

Whether VLOS is right or wrong, it simply needs to be followed. Ken was incredibly annoying in that video. Instead of mansplaining a thousand times how stupid it is, maybe he could spend that energy trying to lobby against VLOS in a constructive way.

[@nemoishouse]

I’m not into the GPS side of the hobby but through friends the video was shared and I saw it (video and the livestream) I agree with you whole heartily.

[@lindsayheyes925]

Wow! I didn't see that coming. Hats off to you for sticking to principles by leaving the show. You found yourself professionally embarrassed as a journalist and did the right thing - exactly as I have seen a lawyer do in a County Court. You are right to say that the flight should not have featured, and to stick up for the polity of GB. Weirdly, this video was the first thing I watched after spending ten minutes fretting about how I would handle a MSM channel if, when filming on my company's property, the Presenter tried to assert a political narrative, contrary to our terms and conditions of use. We have, several times declined interviews and filming for those reasons, and it seems increasingly likely that we will have to do it again. Would that other journalists shared your integrity, so that you and I didn't have to make the stand, because it feels bloody uncomfortable. You have my complete sympathy over this, because I know exactly how much it plays in your mind.

[@edruttledge342]

I watched the TNL live … until it became too painful to watch in live stream. Then I went back the following morning to watch it all. I had also watched the post he did of Billy Kyle’s “ten mile flight” and commented I thought Bill K. had “nerves of steel,” but that I thought the viewer numbers may have been pumped by the number of FAA bureaucrats looking at it. Billy K. is entertaining, but has flaunted the rules before - a few years ago - night flying (before it was authorized) over parts of Manhattan (totally restricted airspace). Since he has been so blatant about it, I do not know how Billy Kyle escapes the FAA’s oversight. But, moving on - some thoughts: • Ken has an entertaining format and has garnered a large “dronista” audience. I have had the opportunity to meet Ken in person. He is a nice person. He has provided a focal point platform for the “recreational” drone community. • Ken has spoken out on many of the FAA’s maladroit attempts to integrate recreational drone use into the national air space. And, we need that. The FAA comes off as an anachronistic fixed wing pro-business government bureaucracy and too many of its representatives come off as “living dead bureaucrats.” Nevertheless, it is the bureaucracy with which we have to work and we need to “bring them along.” I think blatant flaunting of the rules and then posting it all as a YT video does not well serve the “bring them along” playbook. • Ken is bright, full of personality and, obviously, a professional at media-based presentation. But, the technology, the hobby and the dialog has quickly evolved. We need an adult in the room. • I posit Ken’s sophomoric posting of the Billy Kyle flight may have measurably mitigated Ken’s effectiveness in his ongoing dialog with the FAA. This affects more than just Ken Heron. It affects us all as recreational drone owners/pilots. • The recreational drone owners/pilots community needs an informed, effective and wholly adult representative, preferably one with a “media presence” such as a polished KZbin channel. After the posting of Billy Kyle’s flight followed by Ken’s “performance” on the recent TNL, I think, quite frankly, Geeksvana offers a more responsible platform for those of us who care to preserve/enhance advocacy for recreation drone piloting. I sub’d your channel. Thank you for your continuing work on our behalf.

[@harrisonandrew]

Nice one Sean 👍 Well explained.

[@CarolinaAirshots]

Happy New Year !!!

[@maxv77]

Wow. I've just seen that show. No misunderstanding there. Ken was very rude to you, England and our Queen. Nothing he did or said was funny. Well done Sean. You did the right thing. Hold your head up high. You acted professionally. He did not

[@maxair420]

Happy New Year Sean

[@simbyair]

Appreciate the up front approach. 🙏 Love your channel, as a newbie its helped me a lot. God Save the Queen 😉

[@enfamy_OG]

The brook park example was a great point!

[@thelittleredtina]

A mature constructive debate is the best way to show respect for an individual with whom you differ in beliefs. If you cannot do that you either lack maturity or respect for the other party. You conducted yourself with sincerity. Cheers to you.

[@gmivisualsjason3729]

Looking forward to your next show…

[@hedleythorne]

I had been mulling unsubscribing from Ken for a while, and his benile humour was the tipping point. I have spent so much time and effort to build a compliant drone business and I am proud of my flying and the pictures that I sell. I am not helped by a growing reputation of drone pilots fuelled by a minority, less still when that minority has a wide audience. You did the right thing, especially at that time of the night, and I remain subscribed to yourself.

[@ericwatt1447]

Sean welcome to what like a year my last one was PS hope you had a good New year

[@chriscflint]

I thought it was OK until Ken started the stupid attack on British laws and I agree he was belittling you, I too would have walked. I think Billy will be getting a visit from FAA. That flight along the beach next to the boardwalk, could have been done perfectly legally, all they needed was to place spotters along the boardwalk at say 350 meter spacings with two way radios. Over the sea a different issue, possibly could have asked the FAA to approve it. I also agree with you that influencers need to be cautious and not push the FAA buttons as it will come back to bite all of us.

[@MudballDon]

The FAA says that VOs cannot be used to extend VLOS.

[@IslandDigital]

Well said , handled properly . Good job.

[@daveroberts-bridgnorth]

Sean, I admire the way you have handled this situation and conducted yourself. You don’t need to be associated to such a narcissist as Heron and I think you are better off not engaging with him again. I suspect that your professionalism and natural decency has tempered your use of words in your explanation and the cuts in your relationship with him are deeper than you want to admit publicly. I am a casual drone hobbyist and greatly relate to your shows and content. Thank you for what you do. Wishing you all the very best going forward. Dave Roberts

[@jayjayhensley5792]

Happy New Year but the bs behind you and keep doing you videos. Thanks

[@dronephobiatomdrones7686]

that was so sad sean,love from wales

[@rareairvideos3070]

You are a gentleman all the way. Cheers!

[@SunriseWaterMedia]

Happy New Year, Sean.

[@vonheise]

I will catch flack for this, but as retired military, I try to follow rules, even while trying to get them changed. I find it impossible to watch Ken Heron in general due to his silliness. I started watching this without knowing what it was as I never watch Ken Heron and this was the first time I have run across this channel. I will usually leave anything Ken is involved in, however I like Billy Kyle, and I forced myself to watch the distance test, but true to form, Ken acted like an idiot. I have no idea whether they had spotters or not, but Ken flaunted the likelihood that they did not. He obviously knows a lot and has a following which is great, but I can't be one of them. I like a good comedian, but silliness just gets old. I have heard several that say they are going to report the incident to the FAA. It would be a good time for them to make an example, especially since it was so open and flaunting.

[@davidheyworth7947]

Complete respect on this, I managed to find the vid through Ken's episode. They tried to joke about the legalities but knew it wasn't legal. This is the difference between entertainment vs factual/intelligent conversation, but the entertainment in this case crossed a line that was documented (and potentially used as evidence). You being muted whilst trying to make a point had me cursing his behaviour. Happy new year!

[@Welsh_fpv]

Well said Sean. I'm a Welshman living in the USA and I was getting personally upset while watching that part of the show. Keep on keeping on sir.

[@daveuns]

Just watched some of it. I think you showed great patience considering he wouldn’t let you speak. He really set you up to be the fall guy.

[@Craigdennis000]

Just watched the show and you have my full respect ✊ I fully agree and support you leaving the T.N.L show👍🏼 Keep up with your excellent channel and don’t let these type of people put you off ✊👍🏼 Defacing our queen live on KZbin is very disrespectful!!

[@4StatesAerialPhotography]

Thank you Sean, I'm glad you stood your ground and I completely agree with you. We may not always agree with rules, but we must try to follow them. I'm trying to grow my little channel and there is absolutely NO way I would have posted that video to try and get subs and views. Ken really surprised me with the way he treated you on the show. Last Thursday, during TNL, I canceled my membership and not sure I will watch again. If you treat your friends that way I'm out.

[@Grime443]

Happy new year Sean 👍

[@Matbug1812]

I think you were both right, but you, much more so then Ken. He is a mentor to many new pilots. Rules are rules for a reason and they could have easily put a VO a mile down the boardwalk to show people the correct way of doing that kind of flight, like he has in the past. You gave him a chance on TNL to express how it was wrong and what could have been done differently. Unfortunately Ken couldn't resist clowning around and belittling your opinion. Much respect to you Sean, for standing your ground. I am glad to see you talked and worked things out to get this behind you.

[@heroflying]

I didn't see the dust up, and this somehow found itself into my KZbin newsfeed. I just want to say I deeply respect that you're trying to be conscientious about safety. I do find that within the FPV community that regardless of what people may think about the rules, many people seem to think that all rules are stupid and they should be able to do whatever they want as if drones are not dangerous, which flies completely in the face of common sense. They absolutely are dangerous if not handled in the proper way. I've only talked about this to one other FPV pilot, who also attended his Mindfield event in 2021 with me. Both of us were quite honestly appalled at the utter lack of any safety precautions at the event. People were standing within probably 20 feet of the metal sculpture where drones were being clanged and crashed against the structures. People were already flying when I had to ask about how channels would be coordinated so people wouldn't be knocked out of the air. When FPV pilots crashed and had to retrieve their drones from within the sculpture area, there was no announcements to stop flying to ensure nobody got hit, it was just enter at your own risk. We both left there and went to lunch and both at the same time kinda said out loud ... is it me, or was the safety at that event absolutely FUBAR?! We kind of laughed we both thought the same thing. FPV and drones needs to move away from this mentality that you should be able to do whatever you want, and pointing out basic safety needs is akin to overregulation by the FAA or other government agencies and is therefore akin to evil or being a "Karen" or whatever. Safety is safety, and it needs to be a principled stance that regardless what the law is, you should be operating your drone or quad or whatever in a safe and responsible manner. Thank you for speaking out, and thank you for helping me understand that what I saw at that event wasn't just a poorly organized event, but that Ken is apparently also a part of the toxic culture surrounding drones, FPV, and safety, promoting behaviors that being safety conscious is bad. It's not. It's the right thing to do.

[@deanpeloquin1470]

Sean I wholeheartedly agree with your opinion. I enjoy Ken’s show and I watch it almost every Thursday. He does use others for his humor with out regard for their feelings or views. I’ve seen it many times.

[@davidglenn1]

I’m just glad some people are finally seeing Ken for what he is! I’m also glad you spoke up and then stood up for yourself. I refuse to watch him because Ive seen in him for a long time what many people finally saw in that segment. However, I had to watch the segment to see the exchange. He treated you with no respect at all. I think you handled yourself well and probably with more restraint than I would have if I was in your shoes.

[@ageranger1541]

Glad you left, Ken is a clown that uses people for his gain and now you know why Ashley has left the seen.

[@BurlapandLight]

Happy New Year Sean. Glad to see your side of this and the blindside after the conversation was morally wrong. I don't subscribe to the "DO as I say, not as I do" mentality. Especially since he is sponsored by a flight school. Keep up the professionalism on your channel.

[@RemotePilotsAustralia]

Sean, I’m sorry to hear of this situation. I’ve always thought of Ken Heron and yourself as an odd match with views and values at opposite ends of the spectrum but who am I to judge? I’ll leave commenting on Ken to others. I haven’t watched his content for a very long time but as far as yourself; My impressions are that of someone who has values and adheres to them even when it is not always convenient. I also appreciate that you don’t do “comment for cash’ and that your personal values are not for sale. I will continue to watch your content with interest going forward. Regards Ari

[@metalobo76]

I left just after you did Sean. After I saw the comments from his audience and moderators (of which there are about 100 of them, kinda like a club more then "moderators") I just couldn't be part of such disrespect anymore. Good for you for taking the high road, I am now a subscriber. Much respect to you. As for the video in question, people don't realize that even if you disagree with a rule, it doesn't make that rule unenforceable if you break it. This is something that could easily ruin someones career. They can be fined and have their 107 taken from them, ending their KZbin channel and aerial filming company. I would of not even filmed it yet alone throw a "friend" under the bus and post it all over the web. It literally just takes one FAA rep to see it to do the damage. It was just reckless to do it in the first place and to then let someone else film it.

[@MudballDon]

I’m a mod and I almost left. I stayed to do my part in keeping the conversations civil.

[@metalobo76]

@@MudballDon I do remember seeing your name and that you asked someone to respect the guest and I appreciate that. So many Mods and few did that. I would be embarrassed if I was Ken to have one of my guests treated that way. Just my opinion, but he lost my support and monthly contribution.

[@jameswestwood]

Great explanation Sean.

[@paul-thys]

Well done for sticking to your guns Sean. As a smaller KZbinr I know how hard it is to turn down ‘opportunities’ due to principles. Keep up the good work!

[@QuadStandardLabs]

As someone that has been setup before to be a patsy I understand and appreciate your transparency and integrity.

[@geoffhubbert6916]

I knew there would be blowback from that range test when I saw the video and was surprised that Billy allowed himself to be filmed doing it but that's his funeral. After watching the TNL nonsense I can only commend you for your restraint. He ambushed you after he knew you had concerns about being on the show and he was totally out of order. Happy New Year!

[@dogswhistlesharam9029]

I totally understand and agree with your decision to leave, even the young lady who came on later looked like she felt awkward too about what Ken did, I suspect she was watching previously. Here in the U.K. we have a far busier airspace that large parts of the USA especially around Heathrow. I live 28 miles away from Heathrow , and regularly see motorised paragliders , they quite often take off and land in many fields and open areas and take a lot longer to climb so spend some time below 400 feet than usual light planes etc , I’m sure although really rare occurrence they wouldn’t appreciate a Mavic 3 in the face. Yes they should be looking looking around all the time for all types of other aircraft , seeing a consumer drone approaching you if at full speed would be tough as it could be mistaken as a bird (which would normally get out of your way) And by the time you realise it isn’t it’s probably hit you already. These paragliders have really loud engines so you wouldn’t hear the sound of the drone to give you a clue. Yes accidents of this nature is exceptionally rare , but the authorities are unsure of the actual risks by the mass take up of consumer drones by the public, so they make rules tighter than what’s required and given time due to data being collected may decide to loosen some rules at a later date which I’m sure will happen and some has happened already..

[@12vibaba]

I fly paramotors and I can assure you that we can not see a drone coming unless it has the sky in the background or if it is a white drone. Same with powerlines. You just don't see them.

[@dogswhistlesharam9029]

@@12vibaba grey drones just disappear against trees at any sort of distance so I agree with what you say. Only if it’s bright orange you’d have some sort of chance seeing it, and by then it would be too late . It’s far easier for a drone pilot to see a paramotor than the other way around. To only operate by VLOS totally makes sense and should remain law.

[@lauren301]

Well said Sean, I have lost all respect for Ken a long time ago. The impression I get of his show is it’s all about the money. If you watch he like to start the “money train” near the beginning. His ego and practices will eventually be his downfall. Keep up the great work.

[@vonheise]

I would say that it is all about him, the narcissist first, and then the cash!

[@DougLaverty]

Sean, You are a perfect gentleman . You handled this perfectly sir always maintain your respect and dignity. No need for childish behaviors, shutting down the Mike was in my opinion the end for me. I have found youtube creates many followers and few leaders, especially within this hobby. I'm just a jersey guy that wanted to reach out to you saying great job I look forward to supporting you as you lead the way.

[@bradberry165]

Happy New Year! I agree with your perspective on the safety issue. I do love how originaldobo came out blasting him for taking part and flying Beyond visual line-of-sight, and then a few hours later he comes out with the video review of the new autel drone and states that he flew over 4000 feet away

[@airadaimagery692]

It’s not against the Part 107 rules to fly as far as you wish, as long as you have enough visual observers “daisy chained” to aid you with visual line of sight. Everyone is acting as if anytime the PIC does not have full line of sight of his drone, then it’s a violation of rules. That is certainly not the case. These flights can be done legally. Whether or not the PIC chooses to fly 4000ft away by legal means, is strictly up to the PIC.

[@bradberry165]

@@airadaimagery692 you are absolutely incorrect. You cannot daisy chain VO's

[@airadaimagery692]

@@bradberry165 oh yeah? Can you prove that?

[@bradberry165]

@@airadaimagery692 it won't let me put a picture on here. That from an email directly from the FAA. If you give me your email address I will send it to you

[@airadaimagery692]

@@bradberry165 I’m currently waiting to hear back from Jason Schappert in regards to the topic. I appreciate the help though.