TJ Millard flew Apache helicopters in the Army.

Now he flies camera-mounted drones for some of the biggest shows on television.

On this episode of Veteran Made, TJ joins Carey Kight to talk about his transition from Army aviation into Hollywood drone cinematography, working across the Taylor Sheridan universe, The Terminal List, Succession, SEAL Team, 9-1-1: Lone Star, the Marvel Cinematic Univerese, Star Trek, and more.

TJ breaks down how drones have changed film and television production, what they can and cannot replace, how aerial cinematography actually works on set, and why being a good collaborator matters just as much as being technically skilled.

This conversation is also about veteran transition, relationships, creative work, social media, indie filmmaking, and the simple advice that keeps showing up across every successful career:

Work hard. Be kind. Don’t be a dick.

Topics Include:

  • Transitioning from Army aviation to the film and television industry
  • Flying Apache helicopters and discovering early drone technology
  • How drones changed aerial cinematography in Hollywood
  • Working across the Taylor Sheridan universe, including Lioness and Landman
  • Collaborating with aerial DPs, directors, and camera teams on set
  • What drones can and cannot replace compared to helicopters, cranes, dollies, and arm cars
  • The difference between operating a drone and creating a cinematic shot
  • Breaking into Hollywood through relationships, reputation, and trust
  • Working on projects like The Terminal List, Succession, SEAL Team, Marvel, Star Trek, and 9-1-1: Lone Star
  • The power of social media as a working portfolio
  • Balancing major studio work with indie filmmaking
  • Acting, producing, and aerial cinematography on Sheepdog
  • Developing original scripts and pursuing directing after military service
  • Why “don’t be a dick” is still elite career advice
  • Work hard, be kind, and build a reputation people can trust

Episode Sponsors:

  • VM Merch
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  • Ruck Sox -- use "VETERANMADE15" at checkout for 15% off your order.
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Intro Song composed and produced by Cleod9.

SOCIALS:

https://www.instagram.com/veteranmade.ck/

https://www.instagram.com/tj.millard/

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