The Crude Truth

In this episode of The Crude Truth, Rey Trevino sits down with DrillChem's Prater Vincent and Richard Collins to explore the critical role downhole technology plays in today's oil and gas industry.

From drilling fluids and wellbore stability to lubrication systems and completion solutions, the conversation dives into how operators maximize production, reduce costs, and overcome increasingly complex drilling challenges. Richard also shares insights from nearly 30 years in the industry, including international experience, the future of U.S. energy production, and how global events are reshaping oil markets.

Connect with Richard on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rtcollins/

Connect with Prater Benson on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prater-benson-1a1656124/

Check out DrillChem's Website: https://drillchem.com/

Topics include:

Why drilling the well correctly is more important than ever

How drilling fluids impact well performance

Cost-saving technologies operators are using today

Challenges in the Permian, Haynesville, and emerging basins

The impact of Middle East disruptions on global oil supply

Why U.S. shale technology continues to lead the world

DrillChem's domestic and international growth strategy

1. Down-Hole Drilling Expertise & Well Construction

The episode centers on the critical importance of monitoring and managing the drilling process itself. The host emphasizes that proper well drilling is now more challenging than finding the oil, and that well completion and testing phases are essential to extracting hydrocarbons effectively.

2. Drill Chem Company Overview

Guests Prater Bitz and Richard Collins from Drill Chem discuss their specialty chemical company that provides solutions for drilling challenges. They explain how Drill Chem is small enough to react quickly to customer needs but large enough to have their own R&D department and develop proprietary products rather than buying off-the-shelf solutions.

3. Drilling Fluid Solutions & Well Bore Stability

The conversation covers specific products like Terra Lock (a well bore strengthening material) and lubricants designed to reduce torque and enable extended reach drilling. These solutions address common industry challenges like well-bore instability, lost circulation, and narrow mud weight windows.

4. Industry Capital Discipline in 2026

Discussion about how major oil companies and operators are maintaining capital discipline despite high oil prices, focusing on planned drilling rather than aggressive expansion—a shift from historical boom-bust cycles.

5. Geopolitical Impact on Oil Markets

A significant portion covers the Iranian conflict and its effects on global oil supply, including:

Production shutdowns in Iran, Qatar, Kuwait, Iraq, and UAE

The challenge of restarting wells after prolonged shutdowns (chemical reactions, permeability changes)

Global supply chain impacts including jet fuel shortages

The role of the U.S. as a "swing producer" filling the global supply gap

6. U.S. Oil & Gas Industry Leadership

The hosts celebrate America's technological advancement in unconventional oil extraction (shale revolution), directional drilling, and hydraulic fracturing—positioning the U.S. as a global leader in both production and technology innovation.

7. Drill Chem's Growth Strategy

Plans for 2026-2027 include domestic expansion (new facilities in Midland and Williston) and significant international growth, including trials with Saudi Aramco and operations in Kuwait and China.

8. Cost-Effectiveness & Operational Efficiency

Emphasis on finding the most cost-effective drilling solutions, shaving days off well operations, and addressing challenges in mature basins where "easy acreage" has been depleted.

A fascinating conversation on the engineering, economics, and innovation driving the future of oil and gas.

Check out LFS Chemistry Sponsor of the Crude Truth here: https://lfschemistry.com/

Follow Rey on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reytrevinoiii/

Also, Pecos Operating Website: https://pecosoperating.com/

Also, the great Production team at Real News Public Relations

https://www.realnewspr.com/

Live from NAPE 2026, The Crude Truth welcomes Kasey Cox of Metal One America for a conversation on OCTG connections, supply chain shifts, deeper wells, and where drilling technology is headed in 2026.

Kasey shares what operators are asking for today, how tariffs and commodity pricing are affecting steel markets, and why service companies are watching geothermal and lithium extraction as emerging opportunities.

1. Metal One America & OCTG Connections

Casey Cox explains his role at Metal One America, a Japanese-owned company specializing in Oil Country Tubular Goods (OCTG) connections:

They provide threaded, coupled, and flush connections for various well applications (intermediate, production casing, etc.)

They sell intellectual property to distributors and licensees across the country who thread and couple the connections

The company ensures wells don't fail through quality connection products

Recently launched a new wedge connection product that increases torque capacity to 45,000 pounds, addressing deeper and more demanding wells

2. Current Industry Landscape & Market Challenges

Casey discusses the unpredictable nature of the current market:

Inconsistency: Every week brings something different that changes the industry

Tariffs & Commodity Rates: Steel tariffs and commodity pricing significantly affect operations and pricing

Mergers & Acquisitions: These deals can instantly change client relationships—a company can be a client one day and disappear the next after being acquired

Constant Adaptation: These changes keep service companies "on their toes"

3. Diversification into Alternative Energy Sources

Casey highlights an important strategic shift:

Oil and gas will never go away, but companies are branching into geothermal and lithium extraction

Service companies are exploring how to apply their existing technology and expertise to new energy sources

The key differentiator is people and knowledge—understanding how to transfer industry expertise to emerging energy sectors

This helps mitigate the natural ebbs and flows of the traditional oil and gas market

4. Well Technology Evolution

Casey emphasizes the changing demands on equipment:

Wells are going deeper, longer, and faster

Companies are pushing technological limits

New products like the wedge connection are designed to handle increased torque levels (45,000 pounds)

Growing demand for gas-tight connections due to increased activity in the Haynesville, Marcellus, and Utica shale plays

5. Sales Approach & Problem-Solving

Casey discusses his sales philosophy:

He uses a consultative approach—asking questions to understand client needs rather than just pitching products

He describes it as the classic "sell me this pencil" approach: ask questions first, then provide solutions

He acknowledges that engineers can be difficult to get to open up but are essential to understanding technical requirements

His outgoing personality helps him find "that one little niche" to break through and solve problems collaboratively

6. Professional Background & Career Path

Casey shares his 20-year journey in the industry:

Started in production (pipe, valves, and fittings for ~5 years)

Moved to consulting, where he did rig calls regularly

Now at Metal One America for about a year, focusing on drilling and connections

Upcoming trip to Midland with his manager and Japanese director to visit rigs and understand client needs firsthand

Self-described as a college dropout who relies on asking questions and learning from engineers

7. Industry Culture & Networking

The conversation emphasizes the personal side of business:

8. Contact & Engagement

Casey provides multiple ways to connect:

LinkedIn: His preferred method for professional outreach

Website: mo-tc.com for information on Metal One's connections

Email: [email protected]

LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kasey-cox-50b29638/

Check out LFS Chemistry Sponsor of the Crude Truth here: https://lfschemistry.com/

Follow Rey on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reytrevinoiii/

Also, Pecos Operating Website: https://pecosoperating.com/

Also, the great Production team at Real News Public Relations

https://www.realnewspr.com/

Live from NAEP Expo 2026, Brent Franklin (CEO of Rise Capital) breaks down how deals, money, and opportunity collide in the oil & gas industry. From investing strategies to building relationships that change everything—this is where business gets done.

Connect with Brent Franklin on his LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brent-franklin-606294193/

If you're serious about energy, investing, or scaling your network… YOU need to hear this.

Main Topics

1. NAEP Expo 2026 Overview

The episode is recorded live at the NAEP (North American Energy Professionals) Expo 2026, highlighting it as a major networking event where "deals happen." The host emphasizes the event's growth and recovery post-COVID, with increased business activity and deal-making opportunities.

2. Rise Capital and Investment Opportunities

Brent Franklin, President and CEO of Rise Capital, discusses his company's core business model:

Private capital management connecting investors with opportunities in oil & gas, real estate, and alternatives

A Reg D offering platform where investors can review and select specific projects

An online portal allowing diversified investment without requiring day-to-day management

3. Oil & Gas Investment Structures

The conversation delves into different investment approaches:

Working Interest: Direct ownership with unlimited liability but significant tax benefits

PDP (Proved Developed Producing) assets: Lower-risk investments in already-producing wells

Tax deductions: IDC (Intangible Drilling Costs) and TDC (Tangible Drilling Costs) explained as key benefits under IRS code Section 469

4. Tax Benefits in Oil & Gas vs. Real Estate

A key distinction is made: oil & gas investments offer active tax deductions without requiring material participation (unlike real estate's 500-700 hour requirement), making them more attractive for passive investors seeking tax elimination rather than deferment.

5. Rise Energy Group - Vertical Integration Strategy

Brent explains his parent company's approach to consolidating smaller service businesses:

Rolling up mom-and-pop service companies (drilling, well service, water transfer, wireline)

Providing liquidity to companies with bad debt and high overhead

Creating a debt-free, vertically integrated operation to reduce costs and improve efficiency

6. Market Challenges & Economics

Discussion of current oil & gas market conditions:

Low commodity prices ($60 oil, $3 gas) making projects less economical

Rig count decline (from thousands 20 years ago to ~300 today)

Break-even economics at $60/barrel, making cost reduction critical

Focus on shale production over exploration due to higher success rates

7. Investment Philosophy & Risk Mitigation

Key principles emphasized:

Diversification across multiple projects and asset classes

Importance of operator quality and experience

Mitigating risk rather than avoiding loss

Importance of "skin in the game" for all parties involved

Production and cash flow prioritized over tax deductions alone

8. Networking & Relationship Building

The value of attending industry events like NAEP for:

Meeting high-net-worth individuals and decision-makers

Finding partnership opportunities

Building relationships that lead to business deals

Surrounding yourself with quality people in the industry

This episode essentially serves as a deep dive into modern oil & gas investment strategies, emphasizing the importance of professional guidance, proper tax structuring, and strategic partnerships in the energy sector.

Check out LFS Chemistry Sponsor of the Crude Truth here: https://lfschemistry.com/

Follow Rey on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reytrevinoiii/

Also, Pecos Operating Website: https://pecosoperating.com/

Also, the great Production team at Real News Public Relations

https://www.realnewspr.com/

Check out LFS Chemistry Sponsor of the Crude Truth here: https://lfschemistry.com/

Follow Rey on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reytrevinoiii/

Also, Pecos Operating Website: https://pecosoperating.com/

Also, the great Production team at Real News Public Relations

https://www.realnewspr.com/

Live from NAPE 2026, this episode of The Crude Truth dives into the software and data side of the oil & gas industry with W Energy.

Joined by Joe Fuda, Gary Napotnik, and Michael Tanner, we break down how modern energy companies are using cloud-based software, data analytics, and AI to streamline operations from field to finance.

Check out W Energy https://wenergysoftware.com/

Connect with Joe on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-fuda-420392127/

Connect with Gary on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/m-surge/

1. Oil & Gas Industry Overview & History

The episode opens with a historical perspective on the oil industry, referencing the 1901 Spindletop discovery in Texas and how it shaped America's development. The hosts emphasize that despite alternative energy sources (wind, solar, electric), America still fundamentally depends on oil and the entrepreneurs who produce it.

2. W Energy Software Platform & Solutions

The core focus is on W Energy, a cloud-based software company providing integrated solutions for oil and gas operations. Key features discussed include:

Field-to-Finance integration: Connecting field operations, ticketing, production management, and accounting under one platform

Data View: An analytics-ready tool that allows non-technical users to visualize and understand business data without needing data engineering expertise

APIs and data accessibility: Balancing technical data access with user-friendly interfaces

3. Operational Efficiency & Workflow Streamlining

The speakers emphasize how modern software should:

Reduce manual efforts and repetitive tasks

Empower teams to focus on strategic analysis rather than report generation

Adapt to evolving business needs as companies scale

Allow executives to understand operations without needing to know "how the sausage is made"

4. AI Integration & Future Technology

A significant discussion centers on:

The emerging role of AI in oil and gas operations

How AI can rapidly deploy use cases and provide real-time insights

The potential for AI to transform decision-making and data consumption across the industry

W Energy's AI roadmap for 2026

5. Data Security & Privacy Concerns

An important theme is the tension between AI adoption and data protection:

Concerns about proprietary data (P&Ls, completion techniques, surfactant formulas) being exposed

The need for private cloud or on-premises solutions rather than public cloud services

Information security challenges in the age of AI

The importance of keeping data "under one roof" to prevent competitive leakage

6. Industry Evolution & KPI Management

The speakers discuss how:

Metrics and KPIs change as companies scale (from 300 BOE/day to 100,000+ BOE/day operations)

Software must be flexible enough to adapt to different business models and evolving priorities

The industry is becoming more efficient (producing 14+ million barrels/day with fewer rigs)

7. NAPE 2026 Conference Context

The episode is recorded at the NAPE (North American Petroleum Expo) 2026, highlighting:

Industry networking and deal-making opportunities

Emerging technologies and trends being showcased

The role of digital currencies and AI in shaping the future of the industry

The overall theme is how integrated software platforms with AI capabilities are transforming oil and gas operations by making data more accessible, workflows more efficient, and decision-making more strategic—while maintaining critical data security.

Check out LFS Chemistry Sponsor of the Crude Truth here: https://lfschemistry.com/

Follow Rey on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reytrevinoiii/

Also, Pecos Operating Website: https://pecosoperating.com/

Also, the great Production team at Real News Public Relations

https://www.realnewspr.com/

Crude Oil Needs to Run Through Texas.

Railroad Commissioner Jim Wright breaks down why Texas remains the backbone of American energy—and where the industry is headed next.

Check out the Texas Railroad Commission Site: https://www.rrc.state.tx.us/about-us/commissioners/jim-wright/

Key Points:

• Texas produces ~43% of U.S. crude oil

• Balancing environmental responsibility with economic growth

• The Railroad Commission’s critical role in regulation

• Why global demand is shifting toward Texas for stability

• The future of produced water and new energy tech (like lithium & geothermal)

• Challenges and opportunities with legacy wells

• How oil & gas fuels Texas’ economy and state surplus

1. The Railroad Commission of Texas & Its Role

The episode centers on an interview with Jim Wright, the incumbent Railroad Commissioner. The discussion emphasizes that the Railroad Commission regulates the oil and gas industry in Texas, manages environmental standards, and is crucial to the state's $20+ billion annual surplus. Wright stresses that despite its outdated name (dating back to transportation regulation), the commission plays a vital role in balancing environmental responsibility with economic success.

2. Texas Oil & Gas Production & Economic Impact

The conversation highlights Texas's dominance in energy production:

Texas produces 43% of U.S. crude oil and roughly 30% of natural gas

Current production is 5.5 million barrels per day

The industry generated $27 billion in state taxes last year

Oil and gas employ over 500,000 people directly and support 2 million more jobs indirectly

3. The Shale Revolution & Technological Innovation

Wright discusses how horizontal drilling and fracking technology transformed the industry, enabling extraction from tight formations. He emphasizes that technology changes constantly and regulations must adapt accordingly. Examples include auto-swabbing systems that revive dormant wells and new applications like lithium extraction and geothermal energy from legacy wells.

4. Produced Water Management & Environmental Concerns

A significant portion focuses on produced water—the byproduct of oil extraction (approximately 5 barrels of water per barrel of oil). Key points include:

Earthquake risks from deep injection of produced water

Drought conditions in West Texas creating water scarcity

Pilot programs treating produced water for agricultural use (wheat, alfalfa)

Potential for extracting valuable minerals like uranium from produced water

5. Senate Bill 1150 & Legacy Well Regulations

The discussion covers upcoming regulations requiring old wells to be plugged or brought online by September 2027. Wright advocates for flexibility, noting that legacy wells may have future value through emerging technologies (lithium, geothermal) and shouldn't be permanently abandoned without exploring these opportunities.

6. Market Stability & Global Energy Demand

Wright emphasizes that international demand for U.S. oil is surging due to America's political and economic stability. He advocates for marketing Texas oil globally and mentions increased tanker activity in the Gulf of Mexico, positioning Texas as a reliable energy source compared to unstable international alternatives.

7. Election & Public Education

The episode promotes Wright's candidacy for re-election (runoff on May 26th) and stresses the need for voter education about the Railroad Commission's importance. Wright argues that many voters don't understand what the commission does, making it vulnerable to candidates without relevant experience.

8. Balancing Environmental & Economic Responsibility

A recurring theme is the need to maintain both environmental stewardship and economic growth—treating this as a "win-win" rather than a trade-off.

Check out LFS Chemistry Sponsor of the Crude Truth here: https://lfschemistry.com/

Follow Rey on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reytrevinoiii/

Also, Pecos Operating Website: https://pecosoperating.com/

Also, the great Production team at Real News Public Relations

https://www.realnewspr.com/

In this episode of The Crude Truth, recorded live at NAPE 2026, Rey Trevino sits down with Leigh Haas, founder of Mockingbird Land Services, to discuss entrepreneurship, land rights, energy infrastructure, and the growing demand driven by AI and data centers. Working on - -

Leigh shares how her background in politics, pipeline right-of-way, permitting, and safety training came together to launch her own company and why land services are becoming increasingly important across the Gulf South and beyond.

Connect with Leigh on her LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leigh-haas-5b911473/

1. Oil & Gas Industry Overview

The episode opens with historical context about Texas oil production starting at Spindletop Hill in 1901, establishing that America's dependence on oil remains strong despite alternative energy sources. The conversation emphasizes that crude oil knowledge is essential for U.S. independence.

2. Lee Haas's New Venture: Mockingbird Land Services

Lee Haas, the guest, recently launched his own land company about 8 months ago (3 weeks after NAPE). This is a first-year startup focused on providing comprehensive services in the energy sector.

3. Convergence of Expertise

Lee brings a unique combination of backgrounds:

Politics → Oil & Gas → Energy Infrastructure

Extensive experience with natural gas pipelines, solar, wind, and other energy sources

Expertise in right-of-way acquisitions, lease negotiations, title research, and safety training

4. Mockingbird's Service Offerings

The company operates as a "one-stop shop" providing:

Regulatory review and permitting assistance

Legislative support

Right-of-way acquisition and negotiation

Safety training for pipeline operations

5. Geographic Focus & Expansion

Primary focus: Gulf South region (Mississippi, Louisiana, Texas)

Lee is a seventh-generation Mississippian with historical family ties to the state

Company has worked in 40 states and is willing to expand nationally

6. Key Client Markets

Data Centers (8 being built in Mississippi alone)

Electric utility companies

Transmission line projects

Natural gas pipeline infrastructure

7. Legislative & Regulatory Challenges

A major focus is expedited permitting processes. Despite deregulation efforts, bureaucratic delays persist, particularly in Mississippi where state officials may lack awareness of how the permitting process works.

8. AI & Technology in the Industry

Lee discusses AI's role in the right-of-way industry:

AI won't replace landmen in negotiations

AI can improve title accuracy (which he argues is more critical than engineering mishaps)

Lee humorously notes AI makes him "procrastinate efficiently"

9. Personal Interests: Elvis Presley

A lighter segment where Lee reveals his passion for Elvis Presley, discussing upcoming documentaries and his status as a "seventh-generation Mississippian" and "original Mississippi rule breaker" connection to Elvis's hometown of Tupelo.

10. Business Networking & Growth

The episode emphasizes NAPE as a networking platform and Lee's multi-podcast appearance strategy to build brand awareness for Mockingbird Land Services.

Overall Theme: The episode showcases how specialized expertise in energy infrastructure, combined with regulatory knowledge and land acquisition skills, creates business opportunities in America's ongoing energy development.

Check out LFS Chemistry Sponsor of the Crude Truth here: https://lfschemistry.com/

Follow Rey on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reytrevinoiii/

Also, Pecos Operating Website: https://pecosoperating.com/

Also, the great Production team at Real News Public Relations

https://www.realnewspr.com/

Live from NAPE 2026, Cool Edge Drill Bits reveals breakthrough technology that’s extending bit life, improving wellbore quality, and saving operators serious money.

Special Guests Jim McCoy and Trey Poteet, with Cool Edge Bits, and this is how we get more out of each well drilled. With the global energy crisis at hand, we need to save money on every well drilled.

Connect with Trey https://www.linkedin.com/in/trey-poteet/

Check out Cool Edge Bits https://www.cooledgebits.com/

Fewer trips. Better performance. Real results.

This might be the future of drilling.

1. Cool Edge Drill Bits & Hydraulic Technology Innovation

The primary focus of this episode centers on Cool Edge Drill Bits, a new company revolutionizing drill bit technology. The key innovation is a patented hydraulic cooling system that directs fluid flow directly at the cutting edge to keep it cool. This extends drill bit lifespan significantly—allowing operators to complete sections with 1-2 bits instead of 3-5, resulting in substantial cost savings (over $200,000 mentioned for one well).

2. The Expertise Behind the Innovation

The discussion highlights Dr. Anatoly Borisov, a world-renowned hydraulics expert with 15 patents on rocket engine cooling systems. His expertise in fluid flow, physics, and hydrodynamics was applied to solve the drill bit cooling problem. The team combines Anatoly's hydraulics knowledge with Trey's CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) and FEA (Finite Element Analysis) capabilities.

3. Operational Benefits & Real-World Results

The guests share concrete advantages of their technology:

Improved cutter sharpness and longer bit life

Better well-bore quality due to smaller cuttings evacuation

Reduced balling (clogging) in the well

Faster drilling speeds (improved Rate of Penetration)

Proven results in challenging formations like the Marcellus Shale (PA) and Travis Peak Formation (East Texas)

4. Company Capabilities & Customer Service

Cool Edge Drill Bits emphasizes their agility as a smaller company, offering:

Custom designs tailored to specific applications

Quick turnaround on new designs

Locally manufactured products using premium materials

Application engineers with extensive industry experience

Full size range offerings

5. Industry Context & Energy Independence

The episode opens with historical context about Texas oil production since Spindletop (1901) and emphasizes America's continued dependence on oil, positioning the innovation as crucial to energy independence and economic growth. The world has only become more reliant on Energy through oil and gas.

Check out LFS Chemistry Sponsor of the Crude Truth here: https://lfschemistry.com/

Follow Rey on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reytrevinoiii/

Also, Pecos Operating Website: https://pecosoperating.com/

Also, the great Production team at Real News Public Relations

https://www.realnewspr.com/

In this episode of The Crude Truth, we sit down with oil & gas trial attorney Lauren Varnado to uncover the realities of litigation in the energy industry.

From high-stakes courtroom battles to the rise of litigation funding, Lauren shares insider knowledge on how companies protect themselves, when they should take legal action, and the biggest risks facing oil & gas today.

Connect with Lauren Varnado on her LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-varnado-7b5b7761/

1. Oil & Gas Litigation and Legal Practice

Lauren Varnado, a trial lawyer specializing in oil and gas law, discusses her 15-year career focused on litigation in the energy sector. She emphasizes the importance of litigation in the industry and her role as a "first chair" trial lawyer who leads courtroom proceedings while mentoring younger attorneys.

2. Litigation Funding

A major focus of the conversation is litigation funding — a relatively new financial mechanism where private equity-backed companies fund litigation costs for businesses. This allows companies to pursue lawsuits without bearing the financial risk of losing, making it particularly valuable for smaller producers who can't afford expensive litigation. If they win, the funder shares in the settlement; if they lose, the client isn't financially harmed.

3. Challenges Facing Oil & Gas Companies

Lauren highlights several key issues:

Permitting delays — Federal permitting processes are too slow and create bottlenecks

Regulatory pressures — EPA regulations, Clean Air Act compliance, and SEC subpoenas

Risk mitigation — Companies' hesitancy to file lawsuits due to shareholder concerns

4. Regional Legal Landscapes

The discussion covers litigation in key oil and gas regions, particularly:

West Virginia — Home to the Marcellus Shale play with significant gas reserves

Texas — The traditional oil and gas hub

New Mexico — An emerging area of interest

5. Judicial Corruption and System Integrity

Lauren shares a dramatic story about a West Virginia judge who pointed a gun at her during trial, highlighting broader issues of judicial misconduct, juror dishonesty, and conflicts of interest that can undermine fair legal proceedings.

6. Energy Infrastructure and AI

The conversation touches on emerging challenges related to data centers and AI infrastructure, which create new energy demands and represent uncharted legal territory requiring future litigation.

7. Industry Outlook for 2026

Lauren discusses positive developments under the new administration, including:

Weakening of certain EPA regulations

Expedited permitting processes

Potential for common sense returning to courtrooms

This episode essentially serves as a guide for small and mid-sized oil and gas companies on how to navigate litigation strategically and protect their interests.

Check out LFS Chemistry Sponsor of the Crude Truth here: https://lfschemistry.com/

Follow Rey on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reytrevinoiii/

Also, Pecos Operating Website: https://pecosoperating.com/

Also, the great Production team at Real News Public Relations

https://www.realnewspr.com/

From podcast to movement—Jamie Elrod and Massiel Diez break down how Flipping the Barrel is reshaping conversations in the energy industry.

Recorded live at NAPE 2026, this episode dives into storytelling, growth, and building a brand that actually matters.

Connect with Jamie Elrod on her LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-elrod-46829136/

Connect with Massiel Diez on her LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/massiel-diez-b0942a60/

We recommend following the Flipping the Barrel Podcast https://flippingthebarrel.com/

 @flippingthebarrel 

1. Women in Energy & Empowerment

The primary focus of this episode is the "Pursuing Greatness" annual Women in Energy event, happening March 26th in Houston. The hosts discuss:

Growing female representation in the oil and gas industry (400 women attending the event)

A partnership with "50-50 Women on Boards," a national organization promoting gender diversity on corporate boards

The transition of leadership, with the hosts stepping back to let other women lead panels and discussions

The importance of women supporting women in a traditionally male-dominated industry

2. The Flipping the Barrel Podcast & Brand Evolution

The hosts discuss how their podcast has evolved beyond just content creation:

Recognition as a groundbreaking oil and gas podcast with significant social media following

Expansion into multiple annual events (Women's event, golf tournament, Reputation Matters conference)

Shift toward storytelling and personal narratives rather than just industry credentials

The importance of authentic, unfiltered stories in media

3. Upcoming Events & Initiatives

Three major annual events are highlighted:

Pursuing Greatness (March 26, 2026) - Women in Energy luncheon and networking

Golf Tournament (May) - Nine-hole tournament

Reputation Matters (October) - Annual industry conference

4. Baker Hughes & Power Generation

Discussion of Jamie's role at Baker Hughes, including:

Expansion beyond traditional oil and gas into power generation and data centers

R&D and manufacturing capabilities

Support for podcasting and content creation as a business strategy

5. Midnight Marketing

Massey's transition from Baker Hughes to founding Midnight Marketing:

Focus on branding, marketing, and digital presence for energy companies

"Energy 101" educational content series explaining industry concepts

Growth and success in the energy sector marketing space

6. Industry Outlook for 2026

Both hosts express optimism about the coming year:

Increased M&A activity creating new opportunities

Recovery after years of uncertainty (COVID, layoffs, market volatility)

Excitement about AI, digital innovation, and emerging technologies reshaping the industry

7. Podcast Guest Stories

Emphasis on featuring compelling personal narratives from industry leaders, including guests like:

Hussein Sheil (AWOS Energy & Utilities CTO)

Ron (Liberty CEO)

Jeanette Marks (EmployBridge CEO, cancer survivor)

Sarah Magruder (overcame thyroid cancer and speech loss)

The overarching theme is authentic storytelling, female empowerment, and positive industry growth in oil and gas.

Check out LFS Chemistry Sponsor of the Crude Truth here: https://lfschemistry.com/

Follow Rey on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reytrevinoiii/

Also, Pecos Operating Website: https://pecosoperating.com/

Also, the great Production team at Real News Public Relations

https://www.realnewspr.com/

Live from NAPE 2026, Black Mountain Oil & Gas President George Witman breaks down a massive international project with billions on the line. - Monday the 4th

From Australia to Texas, this is what large-scale energy development really looks like.

Connect with George Witman https://www.linkedin.com/in/george-witman-497b98125/

Black Mountain Oil & Gas https://blackmountainoilandgas.com/

1. Valhalla Project in Australia (Primary Focus)

The centerpiece of the conversation is Black Mountain Oil and Gas's massive international project in Western Australia. Key details include:

Scale: A 1.7 million-acre position in the Canning Basin (comparable to the Permian Basin)

Resource: One of the world's largest untapped natural gas reserves with 1.8 TCF of contingent reserves and 13 TCF of possible reserves (potentially 15 TCF total)

Development: After 6 years of effort, they received EPA approval in January 2026 to proceed with hydraulic fracturing

Economics: Potential to generate billions in revenue over 20+ years, with LNG export to Asian markets (Korea, Japan) at ~$10/MCF pricing

Challenges: Regulatory approval, infrastructure development, logistics (wet season constraints), and securing international partners

2. Regulatory & Environmental Approval Process

George Whitman discusses the rigorous approval process in Australia:

5,000-6,000 pages of documentation required

Multiple regulatory bodies (EPA-equivalent, Department of Mining, state and federal levels)

Extensive environmental and safety reviews

Public comment periods addressing activist concerns

Comparison to U.S. permitting challenges (6 years in Australia vs. 1-1.5 years in New Mexico)

3. Domestic Operations in North America

Black Mountain's ongoing projects in the U.S.:

Eagle Ford Shale (Webb and Dimmitt counties, Texas): Successfully drilling Austin Chalk wells with strong recent results

Expansion strategy: Bidding on large South Texas assets in a competitive market

Pecos Country Operating: Potential partnership opportunities in shallow sand sections

4. Oil & Gas Market Conditions in 2026

Discussion of current industry dynamics:

Oil prices hovering around $67/barrel (predictions ranged from $45-$58)

Strong deal flow and M&A activity despite low price forecasts

Shift toward PDP (Producing, Developed, Producing) assets for predictable cash flow

Buyer's market for assets; strategic timing for acquisitions

Production constraints and rig count impacts on U.S. unconventional output

5. Energy Policy & Regulatory Environment

Broader context for the industry:

Current administration's focus on deregulation and removing permitting roadblocks

Comparison of permitting timelines across states (Texas vs. New Mexico)

Energy security as national security

The importance of domestic energy independence

6. Business Strategy & Capital Allocation

George's approach to growth:

Balancing exploration (undeveloped assets) with production (PDP assets)

Drilling during low-price periods and buying leases strategically

Partnering with major operators (EOG, Chevron) on horizontal wells

Seeking international partners for large-scale projects requiring billions in capital

Check out LFS Chemistry Sponsor of the Crude Truth here: https://lfschemistry.com/

Follow Rey on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reytrevinoiii/

Also, Pecos Operating Website: https://pecosoperating.com/

Also, the great Production team at Real News Public Relations

https://www.realnewspr.com/