In this episode of Fueling Tomorrow, host Erin Bailey sits down with Congressman August Pfluger to discuss his journey from U.S. Air Force fighter pilot to representing Texas’s 11th District in Washington, D.C. Pfluger reflects on his military career, his unexpected entry into politics, and why he believes energy security is national security.From stories of flying combat missions overseas to championing the Permian Basin on Capitol Hill, Congressman Pfluger shares how his experiences shaped his leadership and passion for protecting America’s energy future. He highlights his role in bringing colleagues to West Texas to see firsthand the importance of oil and gas, his push for permitting reform, and his vision for bipartisan cooperation.Chapters00:00 – Welcome with Erin Bailey00:34 – From Fighter Pilot to Congress02:50 – Lessons Learned Entering Politics03:30 – Representing 20+ Texas Counties05:25 – Standing Up for Oil & Gas07:30 – Hosting Congress Members in the Permian Basin09:30 – Changing Perspectives on Fracking11:00 – Mentors and Energy Leaders Who Shaped His Work12:00 – Chairing the House Energy Action Team14:00 – Building Bipartisan Support for Energy Policy15:30 – A Defining Military Moment Fighting ISIS17:50 – Long-Term Goals for Texas’s 11th District20:10 – Congressman Pfluger’s Favorite Things About West Texas22:00 – Baseball Games & Proud Legislative Wins24:50 – Closing Thoughts on Community and Service

In this episode of Fueling Tomorrow, host Erin Bailey sits down with Jere Thompson, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Diamondback Energy.Jere shares his career journey—from banking and strategy to becoming CFO—and what it's like helping lead one of the most active energy companies in the Permian Basin. He discusses the early days of his career, the importance of risk-taking, what attracted him to Diamondback, and the leadership philosophy that drives innovation and growth.This is a candid and insightful look at what it takes to lead in the energy sector during one of the most dynamic times in its history.Presented by Diamondback Energyhttps://diamondbackenergy.comProduced by Forty Wolves Studiohttps://fortywolves.comChapters00:00 – Welcome and Introduction01:20 – Early Career and Banking Background04:12 – Moving to Midland and Joining Concho06:40 – Transitioning into Corporate Planning and Strategy09:00 – Joining Diamondback in 202111:25 – First Big Deal and the BD Learning Curve14:30 – Firebird, Lario, Endeavor, and Beyond17:55 – Becoming CFO and the Oklahoma City Team21:30 – Strategic Projects and Treasury Management23:42 – Leadership Style and Empowering Teams27:10 – Advice for Interns and Young Professionals30:20 – Midland Memories, Mentorship, and Family Life34:00 – Cancun Leather Jacket and Favorite Local Spots36:40 – Reflections on Career and What’s Ahead for Diamondback

In this episode of Fueling Tomorrow, host Erin Bailey sits down with Kaes Van’t Hof, the newly appointed CEO of Diamondback Energy, to explore his remarkable rise from Vice President of Strategy and Corporate Development to the helm of one of the Permian Basin’s most influential companies.Kaes shares candid insights into the major deals that have shaped Diamondback’s future—like the Endeavor and Double Eagle mergers—and reflects on the leadership mindset needed to steer a company through rapid change and market volatility. From corporate growth to community engagement, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to lead in the modern energy landscape.Whether you're in the oil and gas industry or simply passionate about leadership and business transformation, this episode delivers valuable takeaways.If you enjoy this video, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations shaping the future of energy.

In this episode of Fueling Tomorrow, host Erin Bailey welcomes Travis Stice, CEO and Chairman of Diamondback Energy, for an inside look at one of the Permian Basin’s most successful oil and gas companies.Travis reflects on Diamondback’s early challenges, breakthrough moments, and the bold decisions that helped the company rise to prominence. Hear how Diamondback navigated downturns, prioritized its people, and fostered a culture of innovation that fuels long-term growth. From strategic acquisitions to their community-first approach, this conversation sheds light on what it really takes to lead in today’s energy industry.Whether you’re in oil and gas, leadership, or simply love a good business story — this episode is full of wisdom, grit, and inspiration.

Join us for an enlightening conversation in Season Two of "Fueling Tomorrow" with your host Erin Bailey and our distinguished guest, Don Evans, Chairman of the Permian Strategic Partnership (PSP). In this episode, Don Evans takes us on a journey through his illustrious career that began in 1975 in Midland, Texas. Discover insights into his pivotal role at Diamondback, the challenges and triumphs in the oil industry, and his inspiring friendship with George W. Bush.Secretary Evans shares the evolution of the Permian Basin from an energy-scarce area to a thriving center of innovation and economic power. Learn about the impact of PSP’s initiatives to enhance the quality of life in the region through education, healthcare, and infrastructure development. Delve into future projects like the Permian Basin Behavioral Health Center and the transformative Beacon Alliance.Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable knowledge on leadership, energy stability, and community development from one of the most influential figures in the industry.Be sure to like, comment, and subscribe for more insightful discussions on the future of energy and economic growth.Hashtags#DonEvans, #PermianBasin, #OilAndGas, #EnergyLeadership, #Diamondback, #FuelingTomorrow, #EconomicGrowth, #EducationReform, #HealthcareInnovation, #CommunityDevelopment, #GeorgeWBush, #OilIndustry, #StrategicPartnership, #PSPInitiatives, #BeaconAlliance

Join host Erin Bailey in an insightful conversation with Lori Blong, the Mayor of Midland, as they explore the city's transformative journey. Discover Midland’s key infrastructure achievements, the arrival of Costco and new hotels, and innovative permit process improvements.Dive into the importance of public-private partnerships in funding major projects like sports complexes and anticipate future opportunities with the upcoming Costco opening and potential zoo development. Mayor Blong also highlights strategic planning, improvements in public safety, and the role of effective communication in enhancing Midland's quality of life. Tune in to understand how these initiatives are shaping a thriving and vibrant future for Midland.

CITY OF MIDLAND STRATEGIC PLAN https://www.midlandtexas.gov/1175/Strategic-Planning

CHAPTERS00:00 - Introduction with Erin Bailey and Mayor Lori Blong01:22 - Achievements in Midland: Infrastructure and Retails01:54 - Enhancing Permit Processes for Developers02:19 - Firefighter Retirement Fund Resolution03:44 - Sports Complex Developments and Economic Impact06:03 - The Power of Public-Private Partnerships09:44 - Strategic Planning for Midland’s Future10:25 - Demographics and Community Investment Insights15:11 - $28 Million for Road & Infrastructure Projects16:12 - The Anticipated Costco Opening17:21 - Quality of Life Projects: Zoo and More21:16 - New Leadership: Greg Snow as Police Chief23:35 - Engaging with Public Queries and Addressing Misconceptions25:43 - Harnessing Technology for Public Communication26:37 - Conclusion: Mayor Blong on Community Focused Governance

#Midland #MayorLoriBlong #Infrastructure #CityDevelopment #PublicPrivatePartnerships #CommunityGrowth #Costco #SportsComplex #QualityOfLife #StrategicPlanning #EconomicDevelopment

In this captivating episode of "Fueling Tomorrow," host Erin Bailey dives into the transformative journey of Midland's education sector, featuring insights from Anita Gamertsfelder of the Midland Education Foundation. Discover the truth behind Midland's education transformation as they explore how the Foundation, a 501c3 public charity, supports MISD teachers and students by generating vital resources. Through strategic partnerships with community leaders, including Diamondback Energy, and others, the Foundation addresses crucial needs and fosters educational excellence. Join us as we celebrate the impact of initiatives and explore the Foundation's programs, including innovative grants, scholarships, and the much-anticipated Teacher Winter Wishes event.CHAPTERS:00:00 - Introducing Anita Gamertsfelder Midland Education Foundation01:26 - History of Midland Education Foundation04:46 - Programs Offered by Midland Education Foundation11:27 - Education Foundation Programs Overview14:56 - Partners in Education Collaboration19:40 - Diamondback’s Impact on Education21:54 - Teacher Winter Wishes Initiative32:30 - When is Winter Wishes Event34:45 - How to Register for Winter Wishes35:53 - How to Volunteer for Education Programs38:00 - Final Thoughts on Education Impact39:10 - Outro and Closing Remarks

Discover how early voting can change the future of Texas in this engaging episode of "Fueling Tomorrow" with host Erin Bailey and special guest Tracee Bentley, President and CEO of the Permian Strategic Partnership (PSP).Join the conversation as they dive into the transformative power of early voting within Texas, emphasizing its critical role in shaping local government and infrastructure. Explore the collaborative efforts of PSP, including partnerships with Diamondback Energy, and their impact on education, healthcare, and workforce development in the Permian Basin. Learn about PSP's innovative initiatives like career technical education high schools and behavioral health centers, and understand how these projects contribute to the community's growth and prosperity. With a focus on increasing voter turnout, especially among younger demographics, PSP's campaign aims to empower citizens to make informed decisions that will drive progress in Midland TX and beyond. Join us as we explore the community impact of early voting and the future of a thriving Texas!CHAPTERS:00:00 - Tracy Bentley, President & CEO of PSP01:57 - PSP's Community Impact04:06 - Purpose of the Permian Votes Campaign06:23 - Engaging Citizens in Permian Votes10:02 - Voting Resources and Information11:38 - Increasing Voter Turnout Strategies16:40 - Local Elections and Daily Life Impact18:15 - Importance of Voting

Dive into the groundbreaking world of education with "From Textbooks to Virtual Reality with the Diamondback STEM Lab." Explore how Diamondback Energy is revolutionizing STEM learning at Legacy High School through immersive virtual reality experiences powered by Side Glass. Discover how students in Midland, TX, are bridging the gap between high school and college with dual credit opportunities, engaging directly with renowned university professors. This innovative program is not just about enhancing academic knowledge but also building critical life skills like collaboration and problem-solving. Join us as we celebrate the future of education and community impact with the Diamondback STEM Lab. Be part of the conversation and witness firsthand the transformative role of technology in shaping tomorrow's leaders.CHAPTERS:00:00 - Welcome00:20 - Diamondback STEM Lab Origin05:13 - First Year Experience07:05 - Dual Credit Opportunities13:41 - Favorite Aspects of the Program18:25 - Learning Differences: STEM vs. Textbooks20:37 - Investment in STEM Education22:25 - Key Insights about the Program23:38 - Backyard Brains Overview25:10 - Magic Experiment Exploration26:54 - Final Thoughts on the Program28:38 - Outro

Join us as we honor the victims of 9/11 at the Tall City Stair Climb and benefit concert, a powerful memorial event in Midland, TX. This remarkable event invites the community to climb 110 flights, symbolizing the Twin Towers' height, in memory of the brave first responders.