Jobbers: American Energy | The People Powering America

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Why is fuel in California so much more expensive than anywhere else in the U.S.? In this episode, Jason sits down with Lauren Roberts, an industry veteran and ROC’s Director of Marketing, to unpack the policies, shutdowns, and market distortions that have turned California into a true fuel island.

From refinery closures and restricted supply chains to the rising costs of cap-and-trade and the CARB regime, this conversation breaks down the hidden mechanics behind fuel pricing, renewable mandates, and the shrinking middle ground in energy policy. If you’ve ever wondered why oil execs are leaving, or how a refinery can be too expensive to run in a fuel-hungry state, this episode explains it all.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• What CARB is and how its rules affect California’s fuel supply
• Why you can’t truck or pipe fuel from other states into California
• Breakdown of California’s total fuel tax burden
• How refinery closures are shrinking in-state supply
• Why California’s fuel specs isolate it from national supply
• What the LCFS and Cap-and-Trade programs really cost
• How 45Z is disrupting the renewable market and feedstock access
• Why domestic-only sourcing is impacting clean fuel development
• The federal Credit Card Competition Act and why retailers care
• What the High Blends Infrastructure Program could mean for new stations

BEST MOMENTS

00:05:25. “Between those two refineries, that’s approximately 20% of the refining capacity in California.”
00:09:14. “You want to support California and you’re only an hour across the border? You can’t truck in fuel because it’s a different formulation.”
00:12:18. “Safe to say that well north of a dollar a gallon is basically taxes created by California.”
00:17:10. “A professor in California benchmarked it at $8 per gallon unless something changes.”
00:23:34. “EVs are great, but they’re not saving the world. Most power still comes from natural gas or coal.”
00:30:55. “45Z came online at the beginning of this year, and it kind of threw the market into a frenzy.”
00:36:42. “Now you’re pricing the subsidies differently for two different categories.”
00:44:10. “Credit card fees are the second biggest line item after labor.”
00:49:20. “California was the last state to approve E15. Finally, it’s allowed year-round.”

Thank you for listening to Jobbers: American Energy, the podcast that captures the real, unscripted stories of the people powering America’s fuel and energy industries. Every month, we go beyond the headlines to share the grit, leadership, and legacy of the workers who keep this country running.

📌 For more episodes, resources, and behind-the-scenes updates, visit:
 www.jobberspodcast.com

📺 Watch full video episodes and exclusive clips on YouTube:
 https://www.youtube.com/@Jobbers-AmericanEnergy

📲 Follow along on social for extra content, updates, and sneak peeks:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jobbers_american_energy/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61562625762810
X (Twitter): https://x.com/Jobbers_AE

🛢️ Jobbers: American Energy is hosted by Jason Case, the CEO of ROC, a third-generation family-run wholesale energy distribution company. Learn more about Jason and the work behind the show at www.jobberspodcast.com/about.

Real people. Real stories. Real American energy.

“Send Jobbers Podcast a text”

The Career Lessons That OUTLAST Any Job Title

 In this episode of Jobbers: American Energy, host Jason Case sits down with Charles Strait, Technical Services Manager at ROC, whose decades of experience stretch from global oilfields to small-town steel mills. Raised in a fourth-generation ranching family and shaped by military service, he reflects on how early lessons about grit, responsibility, and using your mind instead of your back still guide his work today. This is a story of leadership without ego, technology built in top-secret silos, and legacy built one job at a time. 

• Your back or your brain, what his dad told him at 16
• Why the steel mill shaped his work ethic for life
• How failure at Star Wars tech led to GPS as we know it
• Lessons from mentors who lived through Vietnam
• The difference between big oil and family-run operations
• Why culture beats compensation in career decisions
• What lamb’s liver in Morocco taught him about teamwork
• His personal mission to mentor others the way he was mentored
• The real cost of time, and why it’s the rarest commodity
• Why restaurant work should be required training for future professionals

BEST MOMENTS

00:03:23. “The TV series that impacted me the most was Carl Sagan’s Cosmos.”
00:06:01. “My dad took a supplemental job swinging a 35-pound sledgehammer for 50 hours a week.”
00:11:30. “Find something that you can get paid to do using your brains that you really enjoy.”
00:16:01. “My dad said, you weighed all the pluses and minuses and chose a path different from our family.”
00:26:02. “They said if this ever gets out, you’ll be in Leavenworth breaking big rocks into little rocks until you die.”
00:33:16. “Why make a product just like the one they made 30 years ago? There’s gotta be a better way.”
00:47:13. “Do no harm is the most important thing, because they want to pass this down to their children.”
01:17:18. “Whether we catch fish or not, it’s going to be a good time for us.”

Thank you for listening to Jobbers: American Energy, the podcast that captures the real, unscripted stories of the people powering America’s fuel and energy industries. Every month, we go beyond the headlines to share the grit, leadership, and legacy of the workers who keep this country running.

📌 For more episodes, resources, and behind-the-scenes updates, visit:
 www.jobberspodcast.com

📺 Watch full video episodes and exclusive clips on YouTube:
 https://www.youtube.com/@Jobbers-AmericanEnergy

📲 Follow along on social for extra content, updates, and sneak peeks:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jobbers_american_energy/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61562625762810
X (Twitter): https://x.com/Jobbers_AE

🛢️ Jobbers: American Energy is hosted by Jason Case, the CEO of ROC, a third-generation family-run wholesale energy distribution company. Learn more about Jason and the work behind the show at www.jobberspodcast.com/about.

Real people. Real stories. Real American energy.

“Send Jobbers Podcast a text”

Inside Nevada Politics: From Mining to Fuel Wars

In this episode of Jobbers: American Energy, host Jason Case sits down with Miranda Hoover, the dynamic state executive for Nevada’s energy and convenience industry. From her early days in Reno to her pivotal role shaping legislation and advocating for small businesses, Miranda unpacks a journey filled with grit, policy battles, and purpose. This episode explores what it really takes to navigate energy politics in Nevada, the legacy of the commerce tax fight, and why refining access could be the next frontier for the Western fuel supply chain.

KEY TAKEAWAYS
• Nevada’s mining laws lead the nation in bonding and reclamation requirements
• Miranda's family background shaped her path into business and healthcare policy
• The 2015 commerce tax controversy still haunts Nevada’s legislative memory
• Logistics experience provided real-world fuel and diesel knowledge
• Nevada’s fuel supply depends dangerously on California’s refining capacity
• Session politics derailed key energy and vape enforcement bills
• Miranda helped rebrand the state association to better reflect energy diversity
• The Jobbers community fights to preserve business viability amid rising regulation
• Public education is key to shifting narratives around gas prices and convenience stores
• Global conflict directly impacts fuel costs and energy strategy in Nevada

BEST MOMENTS
00:04:30. “Well, it's a pretty funny, roundabout story. Nothing in my life really has been that linear...”
00:06:17. “Unless you are going to be studying seven days a week, 24 hours a day, this is not the room for you.”
00:07:17. “I was the youngest person ever hired to work in the Senate Majority Leader's office...”
00:25:01. “Even if you didn’t hit that $4 million threshold, you were still required to file.”
00:35:15. “They fired all their managers just out of the blue... I got to help them revise their emergency room policy for the first time in 20 years.”
00:47:46. “You have to have the funding and the backing to put up your bond to say if this mine fails… you're going to clean it up, but you will make it safe.”
01:03:07. “We're probably the most transparently priced industry out there.”
01:27:47. “Trying to outlaw fuel doesn't make any sense. Minimum for the next 100 years, this truly is the best and cleanest source of energy we have.”

Thank you for listening to Jobbers: American Energy, the podcast that captures the real, unscripted stories of the people powering America’s fuel and energy industries. Every month, we go beyond the headlines to share the grit, leadership, and legacy of the workers who keep this country running.

📌 For more episodes, resources, and behind-the-scenes updates, visit:
 www.jobberspodcast.com

📺 Watch full video episodes and exclusive clips on YouTube:
 https://www.youtube.com/@Jobbers-AmericanEnergy

📲 Follow along on social for extra content, updates, and sneak peeks:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jobbers_american_energy/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61562625762810
X (Twitter): https://x.com/Jobbers_AE

🛢️ Jobbers: American Energy is hosted by Jason Case, the CEO of ROC, a third-generation family-run wholesale energy distribution company. Learn more about Jason and the work behind the show at www.jobberspodcast.com/about.

Real people. Real stories. Real American energy.

“Send Jobbers Podcast a text”

In this episode of Jobbers: American Energy, host Jason Case sits down with Ron Perkins, a petroleum industry veteran with over 35 years of experience. From growing up near Disneyland to working every corner of the oil business, including operations, dispatch, sales, and leadership, Ron shares his incredible journey. You will hear about the life lessons that shaped his career, the mentors who guided him, and why company culture, trust, and teamwork matter more than ever in this industry.

Ron opens up about life-changing events, building strong sales teams, handling mistakes with integrity, and why serving customers is always the top priority. Plus, Jason and Ron share a few laughs about family life, leadership, and Step Brothers quotes.

If you have ever worked in fuel, logistics, or any blue-collar industry, this episode is for you.

Key Takeaways:
• How Ron went from yard worker to sales director across multiple petroleum companies
• The importance of strong mentorship in career growth
• Why great sales teams focus on building relationships, not just closing deals
• Handling mistakes the right way by being transparent and taking ownership
• Why operations teams are the backbone of every successful fuel business
• The value of cross-department communication for delivering on customer promises
• How company culture impacts sales performance and customer trust
• Why businesses should never rely on price alone to win customers
• Lessons in leadership, loyalty, and teamwork from decades in the industry

Thank you for listening to Jobbers: American Energy, the podcast that captures the real, unscripted stories of the people powering America’s fuel and energy industries. Every month, we go beyond the headlines to share the grit, leadership, and legacy of the workers who keep this country running.

📌 For more episodes, resources, and behind-the-scenes updates, visit:
 www.jobberspodcast.com

📺 Watch full video episodes and exclusive clips on YouTube:
 https://www.youtube.com/@Jobbers-AmericanEnergy

📲 Follow along on social for extra content, updates, and sneak peeks:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jobbers_american_energy/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61562625762810
X (Twitter): https://x.com/Jobbers_AE

🛢️ Jobbers: American Energy is hosted by Jason Case, the CEO of ROC, a third-generation family-run wholesale energy distribution company. Learn more about Jason and the work behind the show at www.jobberspodcast.com/about.

Real people. Real stories. Real American energy.

“Send Jobbers Podcast a text”

This conversation delves into the life and experiences of coal miners, the challenges faced in the mining industry, and the personal journey of transitioning from a family business to a role in Big Oil. The discussion highlights the brotherhood among coal miners, the dangers of mining, and the emotional impact of events like the Crandall Canyon disaster. 

It also touches on the importance of family heritage and the evolution of the mining business over the years. The conversation delves into the tragic mining incident that resulted in the loss of 6 Miners and 3 rescuers' lives, highlighting the emotional toll on families and the community. It discusses the strict MSHA regulations governing mining operations and the importance of a safety culture within the industry. 

The speakers reflect on the unique aspects of family businesses compared to larger corporations, emphasizing the value of maintaining a family-oriented culture. They also share insights from a trip to Northern Ireland, touching on cultural differences and historical divisions. Finally, the discussion shifts to the future of energy, advocating for responsible practices within the coal industry and the need for open dialogue about environmental issues.

Thank you for listening to Jobbers: American Energy, the podcast that captures the real, unscripted stories of the people powering America’s fuel and energy industries. Every month, we go beyond the headlines to share the grit, leadership, and legacy of the workers who keep this country running.

📌 For more episodes, resources, and behind-the-scenes updates, visit:
 www.jobberspodcast.com

📺 Watch full video episodes and exclusive clips on YouTube:
 https://www.youtube.com/@Jobbers-AmericanEnergy

📲 Follow along on social for extra content, updates, and sneak peeks:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jobbers_american_energy/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61562625762810
X (Twitter): https://x.com/Jobbers_AE

🛢️ Jobbers: American Energy is hosted by Jason Case, the CEO of ROC, a third-generation family-run wholesale energy distribution company. Learn more about Jason and the work behind the show at www.jobberspodcast.com/about.

Real people. Real stories. Real American energy.

“Send Jobbers Podcast a text”

This conversation explores the life and career of Marlys McGrew, highlighting her family's legacy in the Merchant Marines and Petroleum Industry, her journey as a litigator, and her experiences in law school. The discussion delves into the challenges of the legal profession, the importance of safety culture in the petroleum industry, and the personal growth that comes from navigating a demanding career. This conversation continues into the intricacies of the legal and oil industries, focusing on the importance of investing in people, understanding depositions, and the varied landscape of litigation. It highlights best practices in risk management, innovative safety programs, and the challenges of navigating insurance in a litigious environment. The discussion also covers the implications of nuclear verdicts, the significance of a mature safety culture, and explores captive insurance options and the E-Mod rating's impact on workers' compensation premiums.

Thank you for listening to Jobbers: American Energy, the podcast that captures the real, unscripted stories of the people powering America’s fuel and energy industries. Every month, we go beyond the headlines to share the grit, leadership, and legacy of the workers who keep this country running.

📌 For more episodes, resources, and behind-the-scenes updates, visit:
 www.jobberspodcast.com

📺 Watch full video episodes and exclusive clips on YouTube:
 https://www.youtube.com/@Jobbers-AmericanEnergy

📲 Follow along on social for extra content, updates, and sneak peeks:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jobbers_american_energy/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61562625762810
X (Twitter): https://x.com/Jobbers_AE

🛢️ Jobbers: American Energy is hosted by Jason Case, the CEO of ROC, a third-generation family-run wholesale energy distribution company. Learn more about Jason and the work behind the show at www.jobberspodcast.com/about.

Real people. Real stories. Real American energy.

“Send Jobbers Podcast a text”

Summary

In this conversation, David Ryan shares his journey from a non-traditional academic background to becoming a key player in the oil industry, particularly at L.E. Belcher. He discusses the importance of work-life balance, the evolution of the business, and the impact of leadership dynamics on company culture. David reflects on the challenges of exiting a family business and the significance of community involvement in the industry. He emphasizes the need for continuous improvement and the critical role of people in driving business success.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Warm-Up

03:02 Career Journey and Early Experiences

05:57 Transition to L.E. Belcher and Company Culture

12:00 Growth and Development of L.E. Belcher

17:54 Work-Life Balance and Family Life

24:10 Leadership Dynamics and Strategic Planning

37:57 Preparing for the Sale of L.E. Belcher

45:35S trategic Decision-Making in Business Growth

46:52 Navigating the Exit Process

49:19 Challenges in Retail and Wholesale Markets

52:48 Bifurcated Sales Strategy

55:37 Life After Business: Transitioning to Retirement

58:34 Finding New Purpose in the Industry

01:01:24 The Importance of Reputation in Business

01:05:58 Cash Flow Management and Customer Relationships

01:10:50 Adapting to Market Changes

01:14:27 The Role of Energy Supply in Community

01:19:06 Opportunities in the Mining Industry

01:23:13 Community Engagement and Corporate Responsibility

Thank you for listening to Jobbers: American Energy, the podcast that captures the real, unscripted stories of the people powering America’s fuel and energy industries. Every month, we go beyond the headlines to share the grit, leadership, and legacy of the workers who keep this country running.

📌 For more episodes, resources, and behind-the-scenes updates, visit:
 www.jobberspodcast.com

📺 Watch full video episodes and exclusive clips on YouTube:
 https://www.youtube.com/@Jobbers-AmericanEnergy

📲 Follow along on social for extra content, updates, and sneak peeks:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jobbers_american_energy/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61562625762810
X (Twitter): https://x.com/Jobbers_AE

🛢️ Jobbers: American Energy is hosted by Jason Case, the CEO of ROC, a third-generation family-run wholesale energy distribution company. Learn more about Jason and the work behind the show at www.jobberspodcast.com/about.

Real people. Real stories. Real American energy.

“Send Jobbers Podcast a text”

In this engaging podcast episode, Peter Krueger shares his journey from growing up in the San Francisco Bay Area to becoming a prominent figure in the petroleum industry and government affairs. 

He discusses his educational background, military service, and the transition to lobbying for the Nevada Petroleum Marketers Association. The conversation delves into the importance of collaboration among state associations and the challenges faced in the industry, providing insights into the role of lobbyists and the legislative process. 

In this conversation, the speakers discuss the role of lobbyists in government, emphasizing the need for a smaller government to reduce the reliance on lobbyists. They share success stories of legislative efforts that have positively impacted the fuel industry, particularly in relation to tax credits and subsidies. The importance of local advocacy and the community impact of family-owned businesses are highlighted, along with the growing role of women in the fuel industry. 

The conversation concludes with reflections on leadership transition and the future of energy, stressing the need for mentorship and responsible resource extraction.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

05:17 Early Life and Education

11:43 Military Service and Career Beginnings

19:18 Transition to Lobbying and Government Affairs

24:10 Understanding the Nevada Petroleum Marketers Association

30:28 Collaboration with Regional and National Associations

33:11 The Role of Lobbyists in Government

34:53 Legislative Success Stories

38:14 Navigating Tax Credits and Subsidies

41:18 The Importance of Local Advocacy

44:52 Community Impact of Family-Owned Businesses

48:26 Women in the Fuel Industry

54:39 The Future of Energy and Mentorship

01:02:14 Transitioning Leadership and Future Plans

Thank you for listening to Jobbers: American Energy, the podcast that captures the real, unscripted stories of the people powering America’s fuel and energy industries. Every month, we go beyond the headlines to share the grit, leadership, and legacy of the workers who keep this country running.

📌 For more episodes, resources, and behind-the-scenes updates, visit:
 www.jobberspodcast.com

📺 Watch full video episodes and exclusive clips on YouTube:
 https://www.youtube.com/@Jobbers-AmericanEnergy

📲 Follow along on social for extra content, updates, and sneak peeks:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jobbers_american_energy/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61562625762810
X (Twitter): https://x.com/Jobbers_AE

🛢️ Jobbers: American Energy is hosted by Jason Case, the CEO of ROC, a third-generation family-run wholesale energy distribution company. Learn more about Jason and the work behind the show at www.jobberspodcast.com/about.

Real people. Real stories. Real American energy.