Fueling Tomorrow

Diamondback Energy

Presented by Diamondback Energy, with our host Erin Bailey, this podcast takes a look into the oil and gas industry and community relations for our organization. Diamondback Energy is proudly headquartered in Midland, Texas.

  1. MAR 18

    How the Permian Basin Became a Global Energy Leader with Jack Harper

    The Permian Basin has transformed dramatically over the past three decades—and few people have witnessed that evolution as closely as Jack Harper.In this episode of Fueling Tomorrow, host Erin Bailey sits down with Jack to reflect on his career across some of the most influential companies in the energy industry, including Tom Brown, Concho Resources, and ConocoPhillips. Today, Jack serves as Chairman of the Permian Strategic Partnership (PSP), an organization focused on improving quality of life across the Permian Basin through investments in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and workforce development.Jack shares stories from his early days in the industry, the mentors who shaped his career, and how technological breakthroughs like horizontal drilling and hydraulic fracturing helped unlock the incredible potential of the Permian Basin.They also discuss the region’s growing importance on the global stage, the role of young leaders entering the energy industry, and why Jack remains optimistic about the future of the Permian for decades to come.Topics include:Jack Harper’s journey into the oil and gas industryThe evolution of the Permian Basin over the last 30 yearsLessons on mentorship and career growthThe impact of technology and horizontal drillingHow the Permian Strategic Partnership is shaping the future of West TexasWhether you're part of the energy industry or simply interested in the future of American energy, this conversation offers valuable perspective on the people and innovations powering the Permian Basin.Chapters00:00 Intro – Meet Jack Harper00:33 Reflections on a 30-year career in energy01:38 From Baylor to Midland02:36 First steps into the oil & gas industry03:04 Learning how to explain energy to investors04:26 Mentorship and career development06:33 The evolution of the Permian Basin07:53 The rise of shale and horizontal drilling11:13 The future of the Permian Basin12:20 Energy innovation and new technologies13:16 AI and the future of energy operations14:25 Leading the Permian Strategic Partnership15:26 PSP’s impact on the Permian Basin17:10 Major regional projects and community investment18:30 Why Midland’s future is bright20:09 The next generation of energy leaders

    21 min

  2. 12/11/2025

    Inside Diamondback’s Growth with COO Danny Wesson

    In this episode of Fueling Tomorrow, host Erin Bailey sits down with Diamondback’s Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Danny Wesson, for a candid conversation about leadership, innovation, and the company’s remarkable journey from its early Wolfberry days to becoming a nearly 950,000 BOE/day operator. Danny reflects on joining Diamondback in 2012 as part of the original team, what it meant to “build a better mousetrap” in a small, resource-limited company, and how a humble curiosity mindset still drives their operational excellence today. He shares insights on scaling operations, how technology and AI are transforming field efficiency, the importance of mentorship, and what it takes to lead with values in today’s energy industry.The conversation also highlights Diamondback’s commitment to strengthening Midland—through education, support for the disenfranchised, STEM initiatives, and beloved programs like the Rolling Baristas. Whether you’re in the oil and gas industry, passionate about leadership, or interested in Diamondback’s impact on the Permian Basin, this episode offers depth, perspective, and inspiration directly from the COO guiding daily operations.Chapters00:00 – Introduction00:27 – Joining Diamondback in 201203:16 – Early culture and taking a chance on the company05:53 – Evolution of operations and technology08:50 – Humble curiosity and team culture12:00 – Digital transformation and AI’s impact14:48 – Goals and priorities for 202616:18 – Danny’s core leadership principles20:29 – Lessons from early leadership roles23:44 – Mentorship and influence of Travis Stice26:02 – Community engagement and Midland initiatives30:27 – The future of energy32:22 – Final message to Diamondback employees

    34 min

  3. 10/01/2025

    Fueling America’s Future with Congressman August Pfluger

    In this episode of Fueling Tomorrow, host Erin Bailey sits down with Congressman August Pfluger to discuss his journey from U.S. Air Force fighter pilot to representing Texas’s 11th District in Washington, D.C. Pfluger reflects on his military career, his unexpected entry into politics, and why he believes energy security is national security.From stories of flying combat missions overseas to championing the Permian Basin on Capitol Hill, Congressman Pfluger shares how his experiences shaped his leadership and passion for protecting America’s energy future. He highlights his role in bringing colleagues to West Texas to see firsthand the importance of oil and gas, his push for permitting reform, and his vision for bipartisan cooperation.Chapters00:00 – Welcome with Erin Bailey00:34 – From Fighter Pilot to Congress02:50 – Lessons Learned Entering Politics03:30 – Representing 20+ Texas Counties05:25 – Standing Up for Oil & Gas07:30 – Hosting Congress Members in the Permian Basin09:30 – Changing Perspectives on Fracking11:00 – Mentors and Energy Leaders Who Shaped His Work12:00 – Chairing the House Energy Action Team14:00 – Building Bipartisan Support for Energy Policy15:30 – A Defining Military Moment Fighting ISIS17:50 – Long-Term Goals for Texas’s 11th District20:10 – Congressman Pfluger’s Favorite Things About West Texas22:00 – Baseball Games & Proud Legislative Wins24:50 – Closing Thoughts on Community and Service

    27 min

  4. 09/02/2025

    Jere Thompson on Strategy, Growth, and Leadership at Diamondback Energy

    In this episode of Fueling Tomorrow, host Erin Bailey sits down with Jere Thompson, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Diamondback Energy.Jere shares his career journey—from banking and strategy to becoming CFO—and what it's like helping lead one of the most active energy companies in the Permian Basin. He discusses the early days of his career, the importance of risk-taking, what attracted him to Diamondback, and the leadership philosophy that drives innovation and growth.This is a candid and insightful look at what it takes to lead in the energy sector during one of the most dynamic times in its history.Presented by Diamondback Energyhttps://diamondbackenergy.comProduced by Forty Wolves Studiohttps://fortywolves.comChapters00:00 – Welcome and Introduction01:20 – Early Career and Banking Background04:12 – Moving to Midland and Joining Concho06:40 – Transitioning into Corporate Planning and Strategy09:00 – Joining Diamondback in 202111:25 – First Big Deal and the BD Learning Curve14:30 – Firebird, Lario, Endeavor, and Beyond17:55 – Becoming CFO and the Oklahoma City Team21:30 – Strategic Projects and Treasury Management23:42 – Leadership Style and Empowering Teams27:10 – Advice for Interns and Young Professionals30:20 – Midland Memories, Mentorship, and Family Life34:00 – Cancun Leather Jacket and Favorite Local Spots36:40 – Reflections on Career and What’s Ahead for Diamondback

    35 min

  5. 05/28/2025

    Diamondback’s New Era: CEO Kaes Van’t Hof Talks Strategy & Change

    In this episode of Fueling Tomorrow, host Erin Bailey sits down with Kaes Van’t Hof, the newly appointed CEO of Diamondback Energy, to explore his remarkable rise from Vice President of Strategy and Corporate Development to the helm of one of the Permian Basin’s most influential companies.Kaes shares candid insights into the major deals that have shaped Diamondback’s future—like the Endeavor and Double Eagle mergers—and reflects on the leadership mindset needed to steer a company through rapid change and market volatility. From corporate growth to community engagement, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to lead in the modern energy landscape.Whether you're in the oil and gas industry or simply passionate about leadership and business transformation, this episode delivers valuable takeaways.If you enjoy this video, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations shaping the future of energy.

    20 min

  6. 04/23/2025

    Travis Stice on Building Diamondback Energy into an Industry Leader

    In this episode of Fueling Tomorrow, host Erin Bailey welcomes Travis Stice, CEO and Chairman of Diamondback Energy, for an inside look at one of the Permian Basin’s most successful oil and gas companies.Travis reflects on Diamondback’s early challenges, breakthrough moments, and the bold decisions that helped the company rise to prominence. Hear how Diamondback navigated downturns, prioritized its people, and fostered a culture of innovation that fuels long-term growth. From strategic acquisitions to their community-first approach, this conversation sheds light on what it really takes to lead in today’s energy industry.Whether you’re in oil and gas, leadership, or simply love a good business story — this episode is full of wisdom, grit, and inspiration.

    37 min

  7. 03/31/2025

    Transforming the Permian Basin: Don Evans on Energy, Economy, and Education

    Join us for an enlightening conversation in Season Two of "Fueling Tomorrow" with your host Erin Bailey and our distinguished guest, Don Evans, Chairman of the Permian Strategic Partnership (PSP). In this episode, Don Evans takes us on a journey through his illustrious career that began in 1975 in Midland, Texas. Discover insights into his pivotal role at Diamondback, the challenges and triumphs in the oil industry, and his inspiring friendship with George W. Bush.Secretary Evans shares the evolution of the Permian Basin from an energy-scarce area to a thriving center of innovation and economic power. Learn about the impact of PSP’s initiatives to enhance the quality of life in the region through education, healthcare, and infrastructure development. Delve into future projects like the Permian Basin Behavioral Health Center and the transformative Beacon Alliance.Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable knowledge on leadership, energy stability, and community development from one of the most influential figures in the industry.Be sure to like, comment, and subscribe for more insightful discussions on the future of energy and economic growth.Hashtags#DonEvans, #PermianBasin, #OilAndGas, #EnergyLeadership, #Diamondback, #FuelingTomorrow, #EconomicGrowth, #EducationReform, #HealthcareInnovation, #CommunityDevelopment, #GeorgeWBush, #OilIndustry, #StrategicPartnership, #PSPInitiatives, #BeaconAlliance

    47 min

  8. 02/27/2025

    Mayor Lori Blong on Infrastructure, Partnerships, and Community Growth

    Join host Erin Bailey in an insightful conversation with Lori Blong, the Mayor of Midland, as they explore the city's transformative journey. Discover Midland’s key infrastructure achievements, the arrival of Costco and new hotels, and innovative permit process improvements.Dive into the importance of public-private partnerships in funding major projects like sports complexes and anticipate future opportunities with the upcoming Costco opening and potential zoo development. Mayor Blong also highlights strategic planning, improvements in public safety, and the role of effective communication in enhancing Midland's quality of life. Tune in to understand how these initiatives are shaping a thriving and vibrant future for Midland. CITY OF MIDLAND STRATEGIC PLAN https://www.midlandtexas.gov/1175/Strategic-Planning CHAPTERS00:00 - Introduction with Erin Bailey and Mayor Lori Blong01:22 - Achievements in Midland: Infrastructure and Retails01:54 - Enhancing Permit Processes for Developers02:19 - Firefighter Retirement Fund Resolution03:44 - Sports Complex Developments and Economic Impact06:03 - The Power of Public-Private Partnerships09:44 - Strategic Planning for Midland’s Future10:25 - Demographics and Community Investment Insights15:11 - $28 Million for Road & Infrastructure Projects16:12 - The Anticipated Costco Opening17:21 - Quality of Life Projects: Zoo and More21:16 - New Leadership: Greg Snow as Police Chief23:35 - Engaging with Public Queries and Addressing Misconceptions25:43 - Harnessing Technology for Public Communication26:37 - Conclusion: Mayor Blong on Community Focused Governance #Midland #MayorLoriBlong #Infrastructure #CityDevelopment #PublicPrivatePartnerships #CommunityGrowth #Costco #SportsComplex #QualityOfLife #StrategicPlanning #EconomicDevelopment

    27 min
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About

Presented by Diamondback Energy, with our host Erin Bailey, this podcast takes a look into the oil and gas industry and community relations for our organization. Diamondback Energy is proudly headquartered in Midland, Texas.

Information

  • Creator
    Diamondback Energy
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    15
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Diamondback Energy
  • Show Website
    Fueling Tomorrow

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