The Crude Truth

What happens when academic geology meets real-world energy development?

At NAPE Expo 2026, The Crude Truth sat down with Tiffany Legg, a PhD candidate in geology at University of Oklahoma, to talk about carbonates, the Fort Worth Basin, why “good rocks” still drive the industry, and how the next generation is stepping into oil and gas.

Tiffany shares why geology remains critical to exploration, how academic research translates into industry value, and why energy careers still matter for future generations.

Connect with Dr. Tiffany Legg on her LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffanyalegg/

1. Oil & Gas Industry Importance

The episode opens with historical context about Texas oil production (Spindletop Hill, 1901) and emphasizes America's continued dependence on oil and gas for energy and economic independence, despite the emergence of alternative energy sources.

2. NAEP Expo 2026 Event

A significant portion of the interview focuses on the NAEP (North American Energy Producers) Expo, where the guest is attending. Key points include:

The event's focus on building industry relationships and networking

The importance of "rocks" (geological formations) in deal-making

Connecting LinkedIn contacts with face-to-face meetings

3. Tiffany Legge's Academic Background & Career Transition

The guest, a PhD candidate in geology at the University of Oklahoma, discusses:

Her specialization in carbonate geochemistry

Her transition from academia to the oil and gas industry

Her goal to apply research skills and expertise to real-world industry applications

Her interest in exploration, production geology, or research-style geology roles

4. Fort Worth Basin Geology

An in-depth discussion about:

The geological history of the Fort Worth Basin

How sediment from Oklahoma formed the basin over millions of years

Key formations including the Barnett Shale, Strawn, Ciscos, and Gunsite

The story of how organic material was buried and transformed into hydrocarbons

5. Sustainability & Environmental Stewardship

Discussion about:

Declining emissions in the energy sector

Balancing environmental, economic, and societal sustainability

The importance of responsible stewardship in oil and gas operations

Encouraging young people to enter the industry with a focus on sustainable practices

6. Career Opportunities in Oil & Gas

Advice for high school students considering the industry, emphasizing the excitement of geology, the essential nature of energy services, and the opportunity to contribute to societal progress responsibly.

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 Karr Ingham, President of the Texas Alliance of Energy Producers, to discuss major developments impacting the oil and gas industry. -

1. EPA Regulatory Changes & Endangerment Finding Repeal

The conversation centers heavily on the recent rescission of the "endangerment finding" established by the Obama administration in 2009. Carl Ingham explains that while this repeal applies to mobile sources (vehicles and transportation), it does not yet affect methane regulation from oil and gas operations. The discussion highlights the tension between regulatory certainty and the need for sensible regulations that don't stifle domestic oil and gas production.

2. Regulatory Certainty vs. Administrative Pendulum Swings

A key concern is how regulations swing dramatically between administrations—Democrats implement one set of rules, Republicans undo them and implement others, creating instability. Ingham advocates for legislative solutions (passed by Congress and signed by the President) rather than executive orders, to provide stable, predictable rules that oil and gas companies can operate under.

3. The Texas Alliance of Energy Producers' Mission & Work

Ingham describes the Alliance's role as an upstream oil and gas trade association that:

Advocates for operators, producers, drilling companies, and service companies

Works at state level (legislature, Railroad Commission, TCEQ) and federal level (EPA, Capitol)

Focuses particularly on protecting small, private independent operators from damaging policy

4. Current Policy Issues in Texas

The Alliance is actively working on several regulatory matters:

Chapter 4 pit rule and waste management rewrite

Inactive well bill (concerns about forcing operators to spend cash on plugging rather than new production)

Produced water reporting system (potential cost and time burdens)

5. Texas's Dominance in U.S. Oil & Gas Production

Ingham emphasizes Texas's critical role:

42% of U.S. crude oil production

~50% of U.S. crude oil from the Permian Basin (including New Mexico)

25-30% of all natural gas production

Texas remains the most business and oil-gas friendly state

6. Comparison to International Operations

The discussion touches on how companies like Exxon demand "regulatory certainty" for overseas operations (e.g., Venezuela) but face unpredictable policy swings in the U.S., highlighting the need for similar stability domestically.

7. The Texas Alliance's Upcoming Annual Meeting

Ingham announces the April 13-14 event in Wichita Falls featuring a trade show, barbecue, golf tournament, and notably, a live band performance where Ingham plays drums—adding a personal touch to the industry advocacy work.

The overall theme is balancing regulatory stability, industry advocacy, and the need for legislative solutions to protect domestic oil and gas production while addressing legitimate concerns.

Connect with Karr on his LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/karr-ingham-9b62333a/

Check out the Texas Alliance of Energy Producers at https://www.texasalliance.org/

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 features Randy Nicodemus of Complete Solids Control. - getting ready for today- 4-30

Randy shares his journey of building an oilfield service company from the ground up, navigating COVID challenges, and why authenticity and relationships matter more than ever in today’s energy industry.

1. Complete Solids Control Services

Randy Nicodemus discusses his company's core business:

Specialization: Fluid conditioning and solids handling for drilling and completions

Key Service: Full closed-loop systems that contain all waste and prevent environmental contamination

Regulatory Compliance: Emphasis on meeting strict environmental regulations, particularly in states like New Mexico where closed-loop systems are nearly mandatory

2. Business Growth & 2026 Outlook

Last year was slower but allowed the company to strengthen its team and operations

2026 is already showing strong momentum with expansion and improved capabilities

The industry is experiencing increased confidence due to predictable oil prices for the next 12-18 months

3. Industry Competitiveness & Market Dynamics

Fewer rigs (around 330) but higher production efficiency with better technology

This creates a tighter, more competitive market that rewards quality service providers

The speaker embraces this pressure as an opportunity to differentiate and excel

4. Client Selection & Business Philosophy

Shifting from price-based competition to performance and quality-based alignment

Selective about partnerships—they interview operators as much as operators interview them

Focus on operators serious about cost efficiency, engineering, and science-based drilling

5. Personal Branding & LinkedIn Presence

Randy discusses his strategy of sharing personal stories and entrepreneurial insights on LinkedIn to build authentic connections and help people understand who they're doing business with, rather than just surface-level marketing.

6. NAEP Expo 2026 Networking

The event itself is highlighted as a place where real business deals happen, with industry professionals networking and discussing serious business opportunities.

Connect with Randy on his LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/randy-nicodemus-b2b01871/

Check out Complete Solids control https://completesolidscontrol.com/

Check out LFS Chemistry 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/

Relationship-Driven Business: The LFS Chemistry Story

In this episode of The Crude Truth, we’re coming to you LIVE from NAPE 2026 with special guest Jim Holmes, President & CEO of LFS Chemistry.

From the show floor energy to real conversations about oil markets, minerals, and smart investing, this episode dives into what’s actually happening in the industry right now.

1. The Oil & Gas Industry's Continued Importance

The episode opens with a historical perspective on Texas oil production (Spindletop Hill, 1901) and emphasizes that, despite alternative energy sources like wind and solar, America still fundamentally depends on oil. The message is that understanding crude oil remains critical for U.S. independence. While this is on every episode of the Crude Truth, this is especially applicable in this discussion with Jim.

2. LFS Chemistry: Chemical Manufacturing & R&D

Jim Holmes, President and CEO of LFS Chemistry, discusses his company's role as a chemical manufacturing and research firm based near Fort Worth. Key points include:

They develop technologies for upstream oil and gas applications

Services include well stimulation, remediation, and EOR (Enhanced Oil Recovery) projects

They customize solutions for clients' specific needs

They operate globally (lower 48 states, Middle East, Europe)

3. Relationship-Driven Business Model

A central theme is that the oil and gas industry operates on trust and relationships rather than transactional sales:

Customers buy based on confidence and trust, not just price

Communication and follow-through are essential

Jim emphasizes the importance of mentorship and unscripted conversations

4. Mineral Investments vs. Working Interests

The hosts discuss investment opportunities, specifically:

Minerals = ownership of resources underground with lower risk ("mailbox money")

Non-op working interests = higher risk but potential for greater returns

Minerals in Texas are often separated from surface rights

When purchased correctly (especially before drilling), minerals offer returns without drilling risk

5. Diversification & Portfolio Strategy

Jim discusses his personal investment philosophy:

Spreading investments across multiple sectors and businesses

Starting with small amounts ($1,000+) rather than large lump sums

Balancing investments inside and outside the oil field

Accepting that not all investments will succeed

6. Pecos Country Operating's Integrated Model

The hosts highlight the value of companies that control operations "cradle to grave":

From land acquisition and contracts to drilling, production, and hydrocarbon sales

This provides investors with transparency and a single point of contact

Reduces middleman complexity

7. Industry Networking & NAEP 2026 Expo

The episode is recorded live at the NAEP 2026 trade show, emphasizing:

Active deal-making and networking in the industry

Strong energy and business activity despite market cycles

The importance of industry events for building relationships

8. Environmental Stewardship

LFS Chemistry is positioned as environmentally conscious, with messaging about being "good stewards of the environment" and providing tools for sustainable practices.

Connect with Jim Holmes on his LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-h-55463a14/

Check out LFS Chemistry 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/

This was a fun interview from the floor at NAPE with Snannon Vint, a 20-year veteran of the oil and gas market, and we had a blast talking about how to stay safe and have a career.

The conversation explores the historical significance of the oil industry, particularly the landmark Spindletop Hill discovery in 1901. It discusses how oil and gas remain central to America's energy landscape despite the rise of alternative energy sources, and notes the current industry state with oil prices around $60 per barrel and a resurgence in activity.

A major focus is the critical importance of safety in the industry, especially at refineries and production sites. The discussion highlights:

• The role of specialized safety companies like Nighthawk Safety and Rescue
• Innovative safety technologies, including camera monitoring systems
• How safety standards and competitiveness directly impact companies' ability to secure contracts

The podcast features Shannon Vint, a 20-year veteran of the oil and gas industry, discussing:

• Her career primarily focused on safety and rescue operations
• Her current role at Nighthawk Safety and Rescue
• Her additional consulting work through Collaborative Industrial Consulting
• Her personal life as a mother of four

An important theme is the evolving role of professional networking, particularly:

• Shannon's strong LinkedIn presence and how she's leveraged it for professional growth
• The importance of platforms like TikTok for industry promotion
• Advice for newcomers, especially women, on building professional networks and social media presence

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, we’re joined by Jeff Krimmel of Krimmel Strategy Group to dive deep into the "value calculus" of the energy industry. From analyzing P&L statements to forecasting the next big shifts in the Permian, Jeff shares why understanding financial flows is the only way to truly see where the industry is headed.

1. Oil & Gas Industry State

The discussion centers on the current health and trajectory of the US oil and gas sector, particularly in Texas. Key points include the industry's resilience despite geopolitical challenges (like the Venezuela situation) and its continued importance in the US energy mix.

2. Natural Gas & Energy Transition

A significant focus is on natural gas's role as a bridge fuel during the energy transition. The Permian Basin is highlighted as a potential dominant natural gas producer, with natural gas positioned as complementary to renewable energy sources like wind and solar.

3. Industry Consolidation & M&A Activity

They discuss ongoing trends in mergers, acquisitions, and portfolio optimization among E&P (Exploration & Production) companies. This includes discussions about asset sales, divestitures, and how companies are streamlining operations.

4. Global Energy Markets & Geopolitics

Broader economic and geopolitical factors are examined, including:

US-India trade agreements and their impact on crude oil flows

The "dark fleet" and shadow markets in global crude oil trading

How international dynamics affect US energy markets

5. Expert Background & Industry Education

Jeff Krimmel shares his expertise in market research, consulting, and training, including his "Oil and Gas Market Mastery" program that provides industry insights and education.

Connect with Jeff Krimmel on his LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffkrimmel/

Check out Jeff's Substack https://foundationsofenergy.substack.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, we’re joined by Michael Tanner to discuss the shift in capital allocation within the oil and gas sector. As more family offices and real estate investors enter the space, understanding the "decline curve" has never been more critical.

1. The NAPE (North American Prospect Expo) Conference

The discussion around this major annual oil and gas industry event is a critical venue for deal-making and networking. They note that this year's NAPE is the largest in 3 years, signaling industry recovery. The conference has evolved from being primarily deal-focused to more networking-oriented, though deal-making is making a comeback. Strategic networking and happy hours are highlighted as key opportunities for gaining insights and making valuable connections.

2. AI in the Oil and Gas Industry

AI is identified as an emerging focus area for the industry. The speakers suggest that some companies are quietly leveraging AI to gain competitive advantages without publicly discussing their strategies, indicating a trend toward using AI as a competitive differentiator.

3. Business Prospects and Investment Strategy

Michael and Rey discuss their specific oil and gas prospect work in King County, focusing on vertical wells rather than horizontal shale plays. Their investment philosophy prioritizes consistent, lower-decline production over high-initial production with steeper decline rates—a strategy that contrasts with larger oil companies' approaches.

4. Investor Education and Transparency

A significant emphasis is placed on educating investors, particularly newcomers to the oil and gas sector, about production decline curves and the fundamental differences between oil and gas investments and other asset classes like real estate. This reflects the importance of setting realistic expectations.

5. Industry Recovery and Market Trends

The podcast reflects broader themes about the oil and gas industry's recovery and the current market conditions that are driving renewed activity and investment.

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/

#OilAndGasInvesting #FamilyOffice #EnergyStrategy #NAPE #VerticalDrilling #capitalmarkets

What does it really take to build a business from scratch—and scale it fast?

In this episode of The Crude Truth, we sit down with Addison LaBonte, founder of Sweet Addison’s, who turned a personal health journey into a booming nationwide cookie brand. From baking alone in her apartment to shipping over 500 orders a week, Addison shares the real story behind the grind—late nights, hiring a team, and learning to let go of control.

We dive into:

How she scaled from 5 orders a day to thousands of cookies weekly

The mindset that got her through the toughest moments

Hiring, leadership, and building a team that cares

Why discipline, health, and routine are her secret weapons

The truth about gluten, clean eating, and performance

If you’re an entrepreneur, creator, or anyone chasing a big goal—this episode is your reminder: you can do it.

1. Entrepreneurship and Building a Successful Business

Addison shares her entrepreneurial journey with Sweet Addison, her cookie business. She discusses scaling from her apartment kitchen to handling over 500 orders per week. A key focus is the transition from solo entrepreneur to team leader—learning to hire, delegate, and establish standard operating procedures. She emphasizes that success requires perseverance, overcoming fear, and being willing to work hard and make sacrifices in the early stages.

2. Health and Wellness

Addison's personal health journey is central to her story. She overcame a running-related injury by adopting a gluten-free diet, which inspired her business focus on healthy, allergen-friendly desserts. She maintains a strict diet excluding gluten, dairy, refined sugars, and caffeine, which she credits with improved energy and well-being. She also expresses concerns about mainstream food industry practices and advocates for healthier alternatives and stronger food regulation.

3. Balancing Work and Personal Life

Despite running a growing business, Addison prioritizes self-care and fitness. She discusses her ambitious goal of running 2,026 miles in 2026 without taking a single day off, demonstrating her commitment to maintaining health alongside entrepreneurial success. This balance is presented as essential to her high performance.

4. Food Industry Regulation and Safety

Addison touches on government oversight of food and drugs, referencing Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s appointment to a regulatory position. She expresses support for stricter regulation and bans on harmful ingredients and processing methods, reflecting her broader concerns about public health and food safety.

Many things that she discusses are things I face in the oilfield with regular issues, and providing low-cost energy for the United States energy markets. Thank you, Addison, for stopping by the Crude Truth.

https://sweetaddisons.com/

???? Sweet Addison’s: Nationwide gluten-free, clean-ingredient desserts

???? Listen for real, unfiltered insights on business, health, and growth

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" features an insightful discussion on the future of energy security and the impact of the growing tech sector on our power grid. Host Rey Trevino sits down with Dr. Ann Bluntzer Pullin, President of the Hamm Institute for American Energy, and Texas State Representative Helen Kerwin. They dive into the challenges of meeting the massive power demands of new data centers and the importance of collaboration between government, industry, and local communities. Watch the full episode to learn more about how Texas is leading the way in energy innovation.

Check out Dr. Ann Bluntzer-Pullin's work at the Hamm Institute for American Energy https://hamminstitute.org/

Check out Texas State Representative Helen Kerwin at https://www.helenkerwin.com/

1. Data Center Growth in Texas

The podcast focuses heavily on the rapid expansion of data centers in the Somervell and Johnson County areas, particularly around the Comanche Peak nuclear power plant. This growth is driven by the demand for AI and computing infrastructure, but it's creating significant challenges for local communities in terms of power demand and infrastructure strain.

2. Energy Infrastructure & Grid Challenges

A central theme is the state of Texas' energy infrastructure and its ability to meet growing demand. The discussion includes:

The Texas power grid's performance during recent freezes

The need for transmission line expansion

Balancing energy security with environmental and community concerns

3. The Hamm Institute's Role

The institute is presented as a key player focused on energy security for America and its allies. It's involved in collaborative efforts to address energy challenges through partnerships with government, industry, and stakeholders.

4. Local Government Perspective

Representative Helen Kerwin shares her experience managing the influx of data centers in her district, including:

Advocating for constituents' interests

Finding compromises (like alternative transmission line routes)

Recognizing the importance of embracing new technologies like AI for Texas' future

5. Stakeholder Collaboration

The overarching theme is the need for communication and compromise between government, energy companies, tech industry, and local communities to balance economic growth, energy security, and environmental protection.

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/

Are government regulations holding back America’s energy future?

In this episode of The Crude Truth, we sit down with Tyler Lindholm, President of Americans for Prosperity Wyoming, to break down the real impact of federal policies on energy production, land use, and economic growth across Western states.

From coal and oil to permitting reform and federal land control, this conversation dives into:

Why Western states are fighting back against overregulation

How federal policies are slowing energy and infrastructure projects

The truth about coal, oil, and America’s energy independence

What’s next for Wyoming and the future of U.S. energy

If you care about energy, policy, and the future of American industry — this is a conversation you don’t want to miss.

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???? Comment your thoughts on U.S. energy policy below

A shout out to Tyler, and please follow him on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyler-lindholm-9119a259/

Americans For Prosperity https://americansforprosperity.org/:

And Americans for Prosperity Wyoming: https://cowboysforprosperity.org/

The Podcast heavily focuses on efforts by Americans for Prosperity to remove unnecessary regulations and policies in Wyoming and Western states. The goal is to create a more business-friendly environment that allows industries to thrive and compete effectively.

A significant portion of the discussion centers on the oil, gas, and coal industries in Wyoming and the Western states. The speakers emphasize how federal regulations and policies are creating challenges for these traditional energy sectors, which are economically vital to the region.

The Ray and Tyler address the complications arising from extensive federal land ownership in Western states like Wyoming. This ownership restricts infrastructure development, energy production, and other economic activities that could benefit the region.

There's discussion about the U.S. military, specifically the Navy, including its current performance and capabilities, suggesting concerns about military readiness or effectiveness.

Federal policies like the Inflation Reduction Act are examined for their impact on infrastructure projects, particularly broadband development in rural areas of Western states.

They also discuss Wyoming's coal production and its transportation to other states like Texas, including potential opportunities for new coal-fired power plants.

There's emphasis on how Western states need to compete with neighboring states (like Colorado) to attract businesses and residents, particularly by supporting the "American cowboy dream" and energy-based economic development.

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

Check out the Crude Truth website: https://thecrudetruth.com/

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

Also, the great Production team at Real News Public Relations

https://www.realnewspr.com/