The Crude Truth

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188

Latest episode

May 2026

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EN-US

About the show

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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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 ConnectionsCasey 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 connectionsThe company ensures wells don't fail through quality connection productsRecently launched a new wedge connection product that increases torque capacity to 45,000 pounds, addressing deeper and more demanding wells2. Current Industry Landscape & Market ChallengesCasey discusses the unpredictable nature of the current market:Inconsistency: Every week brings something different that changes the industryTariffs & Commodity Rates: Steel tariffs and commodity pricing significantly affect operations and pricingMergers & Acquisitions: These deals can instantly change client relationships—a company can be a client one day and disappear the next after being acquiredConstant Adaptation: These changes keep service companies "on their toes"3. Diversification into Alternative Energy SourcesCasey highlights an important strategic shift:Oil and gas will never go away, but companies are branching into geothermal and lithium extractionService companies are exploring how to apply their existing technology and expertise to new energy sourcesThe key differentiator is people and knowledge—understanding how to transfer industry expertise to emerging energy sectorsThis helps mitigate the natural ebbs and flows of the traditional oil and gas market4. Well Technology EvolutionCasey emphasizes the changing demands on equipment:Wells are going deeper, longer, and fasterCompanies are pushing technological limitsNew 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 plays5. Sales Approach & Problem-SolvingCasey discusses his sales philosophy:He uses a consultative approach—asking questions to understand client needs rather than just pitching productsHe describes it as the classic "sell me this pencil" approach: ask questions first, then provide solutionsHe acknowledges that engineers can be difficult to get to open up but are essential to understanding technical requirementsHis outgoing personality helps him find "that one little niche" to break through and solve problems collaboratively6. Professional Background & Career PathCasey 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 regularlyNow at Metal One America for about a year, focusing on drilling and connectionsUpcoming trip to Midland with his manager and Japanese director to visit rigs and understand client needs firsthandSelf-described as a college dropout who relies on asking questions and learning from engineers7. Industry Culture & NetworkingThe conversation emphasizes the personal side of business:8. Contact & EngagementCasey provides multiple ways to connect:LinkedIn: His preferred method for professional outreachWebsite: mo-tc.com for information on Metal One's connectionsEmail: kckasey.cox@mtlo.comLinkedIn 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 Relationshttps://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 Topics1. NAEP Expo 2026 OverviewThe 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 OpportunitiesBrent 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 alternativesA Reg D offering platform where investors can review and select specific projectsAn online portal allowing diversified investment without requiring day-to-day management3. Oil & Gas Investment StructuresThe conversation delves into different investment approaches:Working Interest: Direct ownership with unlimited liability but significant tax benefitsPDP (Proved Developed Producing) assets: Lower-risk investments in already-producing wellsTax deductions: IDC (Intangible Drilling Costs) and TDC (Tangible Drilling Costs) explained as key benefits under IRS code Section 4694. Tax Benefits in Oil & Gas vs. Real EstateA 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 StrategyBrent 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 overheadCreating a debt-free, vertically integrated operation to reduce costs and improve efficiency6. Market Challenges & EconomicsDiscussion of current oil & gas market conditions:Low commodity prices ($60 oil, $3 gas) making projects less economicalRig count decline (from thousands 20 years ago to ~300 today)Break-even economics at $60/barrel, making cost reduction criticalFocus on shale production over exploration due to higher success rates7. Investment Philosophy & Risk MitigationKey principles emphasized:Diversification across multiple projects and asset classesImportance of operator quality and experienceMitigating risk rather than avoiding lossImportance of "skin in the game" for all parties involvedProduction and cash flow prioritized over tax deductions alone8. Networking & Relationship BuildingThe value of attending industry events like NAEP for:Meeting high-net-worth individuals and decision-makersFinding partnership opportunitiesBuilding relationships that lead to business dealsSurrounding yourself with quality people in the industryThis 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 Relationshttps://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 Relationshttps://www.realnewspr.com/

May 18, 202624 min

How Oil & Gas Companies Use Data to Win with W Energy at NAPE 2026

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 & HistoryThe 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 & SolutionsThe 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 platformData View: An analytics-ready tool that allows non-technical users to visualize and understand business data without needing data engineering expertiseAPIs and data accessibility: Balancing technical data access with user-friendly interfaces3. Operational Efficiency & Workflow StreamliningThe speakers emphasize how modern software should:Reduce manual efforts and repetitive tasksEmpower teams to focus on strategic analysis rather than report generationAdapt to evolving business needs as companies scaleAllow executives to understand operations without needing to know "how the sausage is made"4. AI Integration & Future TechnologyA significant discussion centers on:The emerging role of AI in oil and gas operationsHow AI can rapidly deploy use cases and provide real-time insightsThe potential for AI to transform decision-making and data consumption across the industryW Energy's AI roadmap for 20265. Data Security & Privacy ConcernsAn important theme is the tension between AI adoption and data protection:Concerns about proprietary data (P&Ls, completion techniques, surfactant formulas) being exposedThe need for private cloud or on-premises solutions rather than public cloud servicesInformation security challenges in the age of AIThe importance of keeping data "under one roof" to prevent competitive leakage6. Industry Evolution & KPI ManagementThe 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 prioritiesThe industry is becoming more efficient (producing 14+ million barrels/day with fewer rigs)7. NAPE 2026 Conference ContextThe episode is recorded at the NAPE (North American Petroleum Expo) 2026, highlighting:Industry networking and deal-making opportunitiesEmerging technologies and trends being showcasedThe role of digital currencies and AI in shaping the future of the industryThe 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 Relationshttps://www.realnewspr.com/

May 13, 202639 min

Crude Oil Needs to Run through TEXAS

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 surplus1. The Railroad Commission of Texas & Its RoleThe 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 ImpactThe conversation highlights Texas's dominance in energy production:Texas produces 43% of U.S. crude oil and roughly 30% of natural gasCurrent production is 5.5 million barrels per dayThe industry generated $27 billion in state taxes last yearOil and gas employ over 500,000 people directly and support 2 million more jobs indirectly3. The Shale Revolution & Technological InnovationWright 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 ConcernsA 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 waterDrought conditions in West Texas creating water scarcityPilot programs treating produced water for agricultural use (wheat, alfalfa)Potential for extracting valuable minerals like uranium from produced water5. Senate Bill 1150 & Legacy Well RegulationsThe 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 DemandWright 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 EducationThe 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 ResponsibilityA 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 Relationshttps://www.realnewspr.com/

May 12, 202610 min

Leigh Haas on Land Services, Energy Infrastructure & Data Center Growth | NAPE 2026

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 OverviewThe 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 ServicesLee 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 ExpertiseLee brings a unique combination of backgrounds:Politics → Oil & Gas → Energy InfrastructureExtensive experience with natural gas pipelines, solar, wind, and other energy sourcesExpertise in right-of-way acquisitions, lease negotiations, title research, and safety training4. Mockingbird's Service OfferingsThe company operates as a "one-stop shop" providing:Regulatory review and permitting assistanceLegislative supportRight-of-way acquisition and negotiationSafety training for pipeline operations5. Geographic Focus & ExpansionPrimary focus: Gulf South region (Mississippi, Louisiana, Texas)Lee is a seventh-generation Mississippian with historical family ties to the stateCompany has worked in 40 states and is willing to expand nationally6. Key Client MarketsData Centers (8 being built in Mississippi alone)Electric utility companiesTransmission line projectsNatural gas pipeline infrastructure7. Legislative & Regulatory ChallengesA 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 IndustryLee discusses AI's role in the right-of-way industry:AI won't replace landmen in negotiationsAI 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 PresleyA 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 & GrowthThe 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 Relationshttps://www.realnewspr.com/

May 11, 202610 min

NAPE 2026: This Drill Bit Is Changing the Game in Oil & Gas | Cool Edge Bits, Inc

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 InnovationThe 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 InnovationThe 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 ResultsThe guests share concrete advantages of their technology:Improved cutter sharpness and longer bit lifeBetter well-bore quality due to smaller cuttings evacuationReduced balling (clogging) in the wellFaster 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 ServiceCool Edge Drill Bits emphasizes their agility as a smaller company, offering:Custom designs tailored to specific applicationsQuick turnaround on new designsLocally manufactured products using premium materialsApplication engineers with extensive industry experienceFull size range offerings5. Industry Context & Energy IndependenceThe 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 Relationshttps://www.realnewspr.com/

May 11, 202620 min

Oil and Gas Lawsuits EXPOSED: What Companies Need to Know Lauren Varnado NAPE 2026

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 PracticeLauren 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 FundingA 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 CompaniesLauren highlights several key issues:Permitting delays — Federal permitting processes are too slow and create bottlenecksRegulatory pressures — EPA regulations, Clean Air Act compliance, and SEC subpoenasRisk mitigation — Companies' hesitancy to file lawsuits due to shareholder concerns4. Regional Legal LandscapesThe discussion covers litigation in key oil and gas regions, particularly:West Virginia — Home to the Marcellus Shale play with significant gas reservesTexas — The traditional oil and gas hubNew Mexico — An emerging area of interest5. Judicial Corruption and System IntegrityLauren 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 AIThe 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 2026Lauren discusses positive developments under the new administration, including:Weakening of certain EPA regulationsExpedited permitting processesPotential for common sense returning to courtroomsThis 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 Relationshttps://www.realnewspr.com/

May 8, 202618 min

How “Flipping the Barrel” Became a Voice for Oil & Gas - NAPE 2026

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 & EmpowermentThe 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 boardsThe transition of leadership, with the hosts stepping back to let other women lead panels and discussionsThe importance of women supporting women in a traditionally male-dominated industry2. The Flipping the Barrel Podcast & Brand EvolutionThe hosts discuss how their podcast has evolved beyond just content creation:Recognition as a groundbreaking oil and gas podcast with significant social media followingExpansion into multiple annual events (Women's event, golf tournament, Reputation Matters conference)Shift toward storytelling and personal narratives rather than just industry credentialsThe importance of authentic, unfiltered stories in media3. Upcoming Events & InitiativesThree major annual events are highlighted:Pursuing Greatness (March 26, 2026) - Women in Energy luncheon and networkingGolf Tournament (May) - Nine-hole tournamentReputation Matters (October) - Annual industry conference4. Baker Hughes & Power GenerationDiscussion of Jamie's role at Baker Hughes, including:Expansion beyond traditional oil and gas into power generation and data centersR&D and manufacturing capabilitiesSupport for podcasting and content creation as a business strategy5. Midnight MarketingMassey'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 conceptsGrowth and success in the energy sector marketing space6. Industry Outlook for 2026Both hosts express optimism about the coming year:Increased M&A activity creating new opportunitiesRecovery after years of uncertainty (COVID, layoffs, market volatility)Excitement about AI, digital innovation, and emerging technologies reshaping the industry7. Podcast Guest StoriesEmphasis 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 Relationshttps://www.realnewspr.com/

May 4, 202627 min

Inside a Billion-Dollar Oil & Gas Project at NAPE 2026 George Witman, President Black Mountain Oil and Gas stops by.

Live from NAPE 2026, Black Mountain Oil & Gas President George Witman breaks down a massive international project with billions on the line. - Monday the 4thFrom 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 fracturingEconomics: Potential to generate billions in revenue over 20+ years, with LNG export to Asian markets (Korea, Japan) at ~$10/MCF pricingChallenges: Regulatory approval, infrastructure development, logistics (wet season constraints), and securing international partners2. Regulatory & Environmental Approval ProcessGeorge Whitman discusses the rigorous approval process in Australia:5,000-6,000 pages of documentation requiredMultiple regulatory bodies (EPA-equivalent, Department of Mining, state and federal levels)Extensive environmental and safety reviewsPublic comment periods addressing activist concernsComparison to U.S. permitting challenges (6 years in Australia vs. 1-1.5 years in New Mexico)3. Domestic Operations in North AmericaBlack Mountain's ongoing projects in the U.S.:Eagle Ford Shale (Webb and Dimmitt counties, Texas): Successfully drilling Austin Chalk wells with strong recent resultsExpansion strategy: Bidding on large South Texas assets in a competitive marketPecos Country Operating: Potential partnership opportunities in shallow sand sections4. Oil & Gas Market Conditions in 2026Discussion 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 forecastsShift toward PDP (Producing, Developed, Producing) assets for predictable cash flowBuyer's market for assets; strategic timing for acquisitionsProduction constraints and rig count impacts on U.S. unconventional output5. Energy Policy & Regulatory EnvironmentBroader context for the industry:Current administration's focus on deregulation and removing permitting roadblocksComparison of permitting timelines across states (Texas vs. New Mexico)Energy security as national securityThe importance of domestic energy independence6. Business Strategy & Capital AllocationGeorge's approach to growth:Balancing exploration (undeveloped assets) with production (PDP assets)Drilling during low-price periods and buying leases strategicallyPartnering with major operators (EOG, Chevron) on horizontal wellsSeeking international partners for large-scale projects requiring billions in capitalCheck 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 Relationshttps://www.realnewspr.com/

May 4, 202612 min

From PhD Research to Oil and Gas Tiffany Legg on Geology, Energy and the Future of Exploration

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 ImportanceThe 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 EventA 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 networkingThe importance of "rocks" (geological formations) in deal-makingConnecting LinkedIn contacts with face-to-face meetings3. Tiffany Legge's Academic Background & Career TransitionThe guest, a PhD candidate in geology at the University of Oklahoma, discusses:Her specialization in carbonate geochemistryHer transition from academia to the oil and gas industryHer goal to apply research skills and expertise to real-world industry applicationsHer interest in exploration, production geology, or research-style geology roles4. Fort Worth Basin GeologyAn in-depth discussion about:The geological history of the Fort Worth BasinHow sediment from Oklahoma formed the basin over millions of yearsKey formations including the Barnett Shale, Strawn, Ciscos, and GunsiteThe story of how organic material was buried and transformed into hydrocarbons5. Sustainability & Environmental StewardshipDiscussion about:Declining emissions in the energy sectorBalancing environmental, economic, and societal sustainabilityThe importance of responsible stewardship in oil and gas operationsEncouraging young people to enter the industry with a focus on sustainable practices6. Career Opportunities in Oil & GasAdvice 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 Relationshttps://www.realnewspr.com/