The Crude Truth

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194

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Jul 2026

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A Podcast With A Flare We are thrilled to bring this podcast to the airwaves. We live in an age of miscommunication, and it is important to hear the truth about and around the energy markets. Stay tuned, buckle up, and enjoy some great conversations.

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September 10, 202654 min

The Crude Truth: When Geopolitics Rewrites the Oil Market

In early 2026, the global oil market experienced a seismic shift. When geopolitical tensions with Iran escalated, crude prices surged—and Texas responded. In this episode, economist Karr Ingham, oil producer Rey Trevino, and energy journalist Stu Turley break down how a single conflict triggered a cascade of market changes: rig counts climbing for the first time in years, jobs returning to the industry, and a historic deal securing 65 billion barrels of Venezuelan oil. But here's the real story: how these moves reshape energy independence, refinery infrastructure, and consumer prices for the next decade. Check out the Texas Alliance of Energy Producers: https://www.texasalliance.org Connect with Karr on his LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/karr-ingham-9b62333a/ Connect with Rey on his LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/reytrevinoiii/ 1. Global Oil Market Transformation The hosts discuss dramatic shifts in global oil supply and demand, particularly focusing on: China's changing import patterns (buying Russian oil at elevated prices, reduced purchases from Iran and Iraq) The impact of the Iran conflict on crude oil prices and market dynamics Russia's refinery capacity reduction (down 40%) due to drone strikes Global diesel shortage and its economic implications 2. Venezuela's Oil Resources & U.S. Policy A significant focus on the recent U.S. deal securing 65 billion barrels of Venezuelan oil over 25 years: The removal of Maduro and its impact on oil production potential Secretary Chris Wright's role in facilitating investment opportunities for Chevron, Exxon, and independents Plans to increase Venezuelan production by 1 million barrels per day The strategic importance of liberating these resources for global markets 3. Texas Oil & Gas Production Trends Detailed analysis of Texas's response to market changes: Rig count recovery: from 229 rigs in December to 282 currently (41 rigs added year-over-year) Production increases despite declining rig counts (efficiency and productivity gains) Job creation returning to the industry after losses in 2024-2025 The Permian Basin's continued dominance 4. Crude Oil Quality & Refinery Infrastructure Discussion of different crude types and refining capabilities: Light sweet crude (Texas) vs. heavy sour crude (Venezuelan, Canadian) Why the U.S. exports light sweet crude (refineries worldwide are better equipped to process it) Plans for a new refinery in Brownsville to process Texas sweet crude domestically The importance of crude oil trade and energy independence 5. U.S. Energy Independence Progress Reduction in crude oil imports from 60-65% twenty years ago to approximately 10% today The lifting of the crude oil export ban in 2015 as a critical milestone Current import sources: primarily Canada (20%), minimal imports from the Strait of Hormuz (1.5-2%) California's hypocrisy in importing oil from Russia, Ecuador, and Iran while opposing domestic production 6. Tariffs & Trade Policy Debate A nuanced discussion on tariffs and trade: Karr's anti-tariff stance vs. Stu's perspective on managed tariffs The weaponization of the U.S. dollar through sanctions Canada's importance as a reliable energy partner The need for balanced trade relationships 7. Regulatory & Legislative Challenges Texas Alliance of Energy Producers' ongoing work: Produced water management from increased oil and gas production Associated natural gas handling from Permian crude production Orphan wells regulation and inactive well management Preparation for the 2027 Texas legislative session Federal-level advocacy in Washington D.C. 8. Renewable Energy Accountability A critical look at wind energy infrastructure: 79,000 wind turbines in the U.S., with 40% approaching end-of-life in 3-5 years $89 billion liability for decommissioning and recycling with no funding mechanism Contrast with oil and gas industry's established orphan well remediation processes This episode presents a comprehensive view of how geopolitical events, policy changes, and market dynamics are reshaping the global and U.S. energy landscape, with particular emphasis on Texas's strategic role. Check out LFS Chemistry Sponsor of the Crude Truth here: https://lfschemistry.com/ Air Compressor Solutions https://acsir.com/ Follow Rey on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reytrevinoiii/ Also, Pecos Operating Website: https://pecosoperating.com/

September 1, 202634 min

The Water Problem Threatening Texas Oil & Gas

Texas produces nearly six million barrels of oil every day — but alongside it comes roughly 30 million barrels of produced water. So what happens to all that water? On this episode of The Crude Truth, Rey Treviño III welcomes back Texas Railroad Commissioner Jim Wright for an in-depth conversation about one of the biggest challenges facing the state’s oil and gas industry: produced water. Commissioner Wright explains how the shale revolution dramatically changed the way Texas handles produced water, why deep-well injection has contributed to seismic activity in parts of the Permian Basin, and how increasing underground pressure is creating new operational and economic challenges for producers. The conversation also explores a potential solution: treating produced water so it can be safely reused for irrigation, industrial applications, data centers, and potentially other water needs across drought-stricken areas of Texas. Jim also discusses the regulatory questions surrounding the Railroad Commission and TCEQ, the need for clearer authority between agencies, and why Texas must move quickly to develop practical, economically viable solutions. With growing demand for water, expanding energy production, and new industries like AI data centers coming to Texas, produced water may no longer be something the state can simply dispose of. It could become a resource. Watch the full episode to hear Commissioner Jim Wright explain what Texas is doing now — and why the decisions being made today could have a major impact on the future of the state’s energy industry, water supply, and economy. Check out the Substack Article: Check out LFS Chemistry Sponsor of the Crude Truth here: https://lfschemistry.com/ Air Compressor Solutions https://acsir.com/ Follow Rey on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reytrevinoiii/ Also, Pecos Operating Website: https://pecosoperating.com/

July 28, 202639 min

From Miss America to Nuclear Engineer: Grace Vanderhei on the Future of Energy

Former Miss America and nuclear fuels engineer Grace Vanderhei returns to The Crude Truth to break down why nuclear energy is making a major comeback in the United States. From the restart of Three Mile Island Unit 1 — now the Crane Clean Energy Center — to the growing demand for clean, reliable power, Grace explains how nuclear energy can help fuel America’s future. Connect with Grace on her LinkedIn! https://www.linkedin.com/in/gracevanderhei/ Rey Trevino and Grace discuss her work with Constellation, the energy density of nuclear fuel, the role of uranium, the future of small modular reactors, and why nuclear remains one of the most powerful tools for energy independence. They also dive into the importance of building new projects on time and on budget, the bipartisan support behind nuclear, and why staying curious is key to understanding the future of energy. 1. Nuclear Energy as a Clean, Reliable Power Source The core theme throughout the episode is promoting nuclear energy as a viable, clean, and reliable alternative to fossil fuels. The host emphasizes that nuclear is becoming increasingly important in America's energy independence strategy, alongside oil and gas. 2. Grace Vanderheide's Career in Nuclear Engineering Grace discusses her role as a nuclear fuels engineer at Constellation Energy, the largest commercial nuclear reactor fleet operator in the US with 21 operating reactors. She explains her work designing nuclear fuel for operating plants and upcoming restart projects. 3. Three Mile Island Unit 1 Restart (Crane Clean Energy Center) A significant portion focuses on the restart of Three Mile Island Unit 1, which was decommissioned in 2019. Grace elaborates on: The distinction between Unit 1 (safe, operated until 2019) and Unit 2 (the 1979 incident) The engineering challenges of designing a completely new fuel core Community support and job creation benefits The political backing from the current administration 4. Nuclear Fuel Design and Energy Density Grace explains the technical aspects of nuclear fuel, including: The concept of "spicy uranium" (U-235 vs U-238) How one fuel pellet produces as much energy as 1 ton of coal, 17,000 cubic feet of natural gas, or 150 gallons of oil The potential for increased enrichment levels (LEU+) to improve efficiency 5. Recent Nuclear Developments in the US Discussion of recent milestones: Vogel Units 3 & 4 in Georgia (first new reactors built from scratch in 30 years, powering ~4 million homes) Federal support and billions in loans for new nuclear projects Trump administration's goal to triple US nuclear capacity 6. Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) Grace provides a balanced perspective on SMRs: Acknowledges their potential but cautions against overpromising Emphasizes the need for fully licensed designs before construction Advocates for building on time and on budget to maintain industry credibility 7. International Nuclear Advocacy Grace shares her experiences promoting nuclear energy internationally: Her tour in Australia, where nuclear is banned (only G7 nation with this restriction) The bipartisan support for nuclear in the US compared to other countries Her work engaging with legislators and policymakers 8. Grace's Personal Journey and Future Plans Her transition from Miss America 2023 to nuclear engineer Pursuing an MBA in International Business to move into the fuel supply chain sector Writing a book about optimism (launching early 2027) Her continued advocacy for nuclear energy through social media and public engagement The podcast emphasizes nuclear energy's critical role in meeting growing energy demands while maintaining environmental sustainability and economic benefits. 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/

July 15, 202636 min

The Hidden Legal Battles Behind Oil and Gas with Lauren Varnado

The Crude Truth: Navigating Legal Complexity in Modern Energy In an era where energy demands are skyrocketing and the industry is at a crossroads between traditional oil and gas production and emerging clean technologies, the legal landscape has never been more complex. From royalty disputes and investor protection to the explosive growth of data centers demanding unprecedented power consumption, oil and gas companies face multifaceted challenges that require more than just operational expertise—they demand strategic legal foresight. In this episode of The Crude Truth, host Ray sits down with Lauren Varnado, a first-chair oil and gas attorney at the elite boutique firm Brown Rudnick, to explore the critical legal issues reshaping the energy sector. With a national practice spanning from Texas to Appalachia, Varnado brings invaluable insights into how companies can protect their interests, mitigate litigation risks, and capitalize on opportunities at the intersection of traditional energy and innovation. Whether you're an investor evaluating your first oil and gas deal, an operator navigating regulatory compliance, or an entrepreneur exploring data center partnerships, this conversation reveals the legal strategies and industry trends that separate successful energy companies from those caught in costly disputes. 1. Oil & Gas Legal Practice & Expertise Lauren Varnado, a first-chair oil and gas attorney at Brown Rudnick, discusses her national practice covering upstream and midstream sectors across major oil and gas producing states. She emphasizes the importance of understanding both the legal and business aspects of energy production. 2. Royalty Disputes & Investor Protection A significant focus is on royalty disputes and ensuring proper payment structures for surface owners, working interest owners, and royalty owners. The discussion highlights how transparent communication and proper legal structuring protects both companies and investors, allowing them to receive fair returns without intermediaries taking excessive cuts. 3. Litigation Risk Mitigation Lauren stresses the importance of proactive legal strategy to avoid costly litigation. She explains how companies can spend $100,000 on preventive legal analysis to avoid $5-10 million in litigation costs later. Key strategies include varying contract language, lease forms, and royalty check formats to prevent class action certification. 4. Clean Energy & New Technologies The conversation explores how traditional oil and gas producers are developing innovation groups to explore new technologies and clean energy ventures, recognizing that the future includes both traditional energy and renewable alternatives. 5. Data Centers & Energy Infrastructure A major topic is the emerging intersection of data centers with oil and gas operations. Data centers require enormous amounts of power (equivalent to 20 New York cities), making natural gas and oil critical energy sources. The discussion covers contractual considerations and how oil and gas companies can protect their production rights while accommodating data center development. 6. Energy Independence & Infrastructure Challenges The interview addresses critical infrastructure gaps, particularly in the Northeast and California, where restrictions on pipelines and LNG infrastructure force consumers to rely on expensive or environmentally harmful alternatives like heating oil. The discussion emphasizes how West Virginia and Texas have abundant natural gas resources that could solve energy shortages. 7. Regulatory Compliance & Government Relations Lauren discusses the importance of complying with regulations, particularly the Texas Railroad Commission, which provides clarity and reduces legal risk compared to other states. She also addresses permitting reform as a critical issue needing government attention. 8. Nuclear Energy & Alternative Power Sources The conversation includes a discussion on nuclear energy as a clean, safe power source when properly regulated, drawing parallels to how Thomas Edison's tactics created fear around electricity while Tesla's innovations became the standard. 9. Climate Litigation & Environmental Disclosures The interview touches on shareholder lawsuits and climate-related litigation against oil and gas companies regarding the veracity of environmental and climate disclosures. 10. Intellectual Property in Energy Lauren notes an emerging trend of IP and patent litigation in the oil and gas industry, including trade secret theft and patent disputes involving major companies and refineries—a shift from historical patterns where drilling contractors held most patents. This interview presents a comprehensive view of modern oil and gas legal practice, emphasizing the intersection of traditional energy, emerging technologies, and the critical role of legal strategy in business success. 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/

July 9, 202632 min

Why West Texas Wins: Derrick Black on Energy, People and Purpose

What makes West Texas networking different from anywhere else? In this episode of The Crude Truth, Rey Trevino sits down with Derrick Black, a respected oil & gas professional, community leader, and founder of Coffee & Connections. Derrick shares his journey from telecommunications with AT&T to building a successful career in the Permian Basin, while using his passion for networking to connect people, businesses, and nonprofits throughout West Texas. The conversation explores the culture of the Permian Basin, the importance of authentic relationships, the impact of community involvement, and how strong networks can create opportunities both inside and outside the oilfield. Derrick also discusses his work with local nonprofits, his commitment to leaving a meaningful legacy, and an exciting new venture that could bring innovative production technology to the industry. In This Episode: ✔️ Derrick Black's journey into oil & gas ✔️ Why networking is critical for career growth ✔️ The story behind Coffee & Connections ✔️ Supporting local nonprofits in West Texas ✔️ The unique culture of the Permian Basin ✔️ Leadership, legacy, and community impact ✔️ Future opportunities in the energy industry Whether you're in oil & gas, business development, sales, or simply looking to build stronger professional relationships, this episode offers valuable insights on creating meaningful connections that drive success. Connect with Derrick on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derrickblackbdm/ 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/

July 4, 202630 min

Red Cards Against Human Trafficking | David Reid on The Crude Truth

Human trafficking is one of the world's most hidden and devastating crimes—and it's happening closer to home than many realize. In this episode of The Crude Truth, host Rey Trevino sits down with David Reid, CTO and CMO of NOV and founder of Red M, to discuss how he's using his platform in the energy industry to bring awareness to human trafficking and protect vulnerable children and families. We recommend connecting with David Reed on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidred/ David shares the powerful mission behind Red M, how trafficking often begins through grooming and manipulation, and why education and awareness are the most important tools in preventing exploitation. He also discusses the organization's global growth, the launch of the Red Card United campaign during the 2026 World Cup, and how businesses and individuals can get involved. ????️ In this episode: To learn more or get involved with Red M, visit JoinRedM.com and follow Red M on LinkedIn. 1. Human Trafficking & Red M Organization The primary focus of the episode is human trafficking awareness and prevention. David Reed, CTO and CMO of NOV and founder of Red M, discusses the organization's mission to combat human trafficking, particularly the grooming and exploitation of minors. Key points include: Red M operates 23-26 chapters across North America and the UK The organization focuses on education and awareness rather than deep intervention They've engaged over 6,000 volunteers in Houston alone over 8 years 2. Grooming and Recruitment Tactics David explains how traffickers operate: Victims are typically groomed rather than forcibly taken Traffickers use cult-like techniques, sleep deprivation, and emotional manipulation They isolate victims from families by convincing them "no one cares" The process typically targets mid-teens and can take years Spotters and controllers work in coordination to maintain control 3. Warning Signs & Identification The conversation covers how to recognize trafficking indicators: Behavioral changes in children (wrong crowd, suspicious relationships) Sleep deprivation and constant phone use Isolation from family and friends The importance of training parents and professionals to identify these signs 4. Red M's Awareness Campaigns Several initiatives are discussed: Action Speaks Campaign: Care package building where people write encouraging notes to trafficking survivors Red Card Campaign: Using World Cup football/soccer as a platform to raise awareness, with red cards symbolizing a "red card to trafficking" In-company training sessions at major corporations (Deloitte, HPE, Dell) Statistics showing that in groups of 30 people, typically 1 person has a child being groomed 5. The World Cup 2026 Platform David discusses leveraging the World Cup (hosted in North America) as an awareness opportunity: Red cards will be distributed at Houston Dynamo friendly games The campaign uses the visual metaphor of a red card (player ejection) to represent stopping trafficking Website: redcardunited.com directs people to simple, accessible education The goal is to reach international audiences through football/soccer 6. Funding & Volunteer Model Red M's unique approach to operations: The organization operates entirely on volunteers They actively discourage donations and focus on awareness instead Recently secured $1.6 million from 35 oil and gas CEOs for an advertising campaign Money is used for awareness campaigns and directed to survivor organizations No buildings or administrative overhead 7. Oil & Gas Industry Connection The episode emphasizes why Red M focuses on oil and gas communities: Oil and gas workers travel frequently to different cities This creates natural opportunities to establish chapters in new locations The industry has embraced the mission (Patterson UTI, SLB, Houston Airports involved) The platform allows industry leaders to use their influence for purpose 8. Personal Motivation & Purpose David shares his journey: His wife initially got involved with anti-trafficking work Realizing the issue affected children motivated his deeper involvement He views his platform at NOV as an opportunity to create positive change The work has become a "movement" rather than a forced initiative The episode emphasizes that human trafficking is a real, present danger affecting communities across North America, and that awareness and education are critical first steps in prevention. #TheCrudeTruth #DavidReid #RedM #HumanTraffickingAwareness #RedCardUnited #Leadership #OilAndGas #WorldCup2026 #PlatformForPurpose #EndHumanTrafficking #Podcast #EnergyIndustry #childprotection 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/

June 23, 20267 min

Beyond the Pump: Navigating Middle East Conflict and American Energy, Congresswoman Beth Van Duyne

This was a fun interview with Congresswoman Beth Van Duyne on my recent trip to Washington, DC. I had some great meetings, and she is doing great things for her constituents. 1. American Energy Independence & Oil Production The interview emphasizes Texas's historical and ongoing role in American energy. It references the 1901 Spindletop discovery and argues that despite alternative energy sources (wind, solar, electric), America still fundamentally depends on oil. The discussion highlights the importance of supporting American oil producers and maintaining competitive global positioning. 2. The Strait of Hormuz & Middle East Conflict Congresswoman Van Dyen discusses the geopolitical tensions affecting oil prices, particularly the conflict in the Middle East. She explains the administration's goals regarding preventing a terrorist regime (Iran) from obtaining nuclear weapons, while also emphasizing the desire to exit the conflict as soon as possible. 3. Gas Prices & Economic Impact The interview addresses current high gas prices and their effect on consumers. However, Van Dyen points out that gas prices are actually lower now compared to the Biden administration, attributing this to increased American oil production and reduced regulatory barriers for producers. 4. Tax Cuts & Regulatory Reform A significant focus is on the reconciliation bill that included tax cuts and regulatory reductions, specifically benefiting American energy producers. The congresswoman discusses plans for a second reconciliation package to continue this work and help people "keep more of what they make." 5. Inflation & Wage Growth The discussion touches on inflation concerns and highlights a positive trend: wages are now outpacing inflation for the first time in years, which the administration aims to sustain. 6. Capitol Hill Internships & Political Engagement The interview concludes with a lighter discussion about young people entering politics through internships, emphasizing the value of Capitol Hill experience as a career foundation and networking opportunity. Follow Congresswoman Beth Van Duyne's work on her website https://vanduyne.house.gov/ 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/

June 18, 202633 min

Drilling Smarter: Solving Downhole Challenges with DrillChem

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/

May 21, 202615 min

Kasey Cox on OCTG, Energy Supply Chains and What’s Changing in Oilfield Tubulars NAPE 2026

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: kckasey.cox@mtlo.com 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/

May 20, 202627 min

Inside NAPE 2026 Where Oil and Gas Deals REALLY Happen Brent Franklin

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/