The Crude Truth

The Crude Truth
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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.

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

    3D AGO

    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 4th From Australia to Texas, this is what large-scale energy development really looks like. Connect with George Witman https://www.linkedin.com/in/george-witman-497b98125/ Black Mountain Oil & Gas https://blackmountainoilandgas.com/ 1. Valhalla Project in Australia (Primary Focus) The centerpiece of the conversation is Black Mountain Oil and Gas's massive international project in Western Australia. Key details include: Scale: A 1.7 million-acre position in the Canning Basin (comparable to the Permian Basin) Resource: One of the world's largest untapped natural gas reserves with 1.8 TCF of contingent reserves and 13 TCF of possible reserves (potentially 15 TCF total) Development: After 6 years of effort, they received EPA approval in January 2026 to proceed with hydraulic fracturing Economics: Potential to generate billions in revenue over 20+ years, with LNG export to Asian markets (Korea, Japan) at ~$10/MCF pricing Challenges: Regulatory approval, infrastructure development, logistics (wet season constraints), and securing international partners 2. Regulatory & Environmental Approval Process George Whitman discusses the rigorous approval process in Australia: 5,000-6,000 pages of documentation required Multiple regulatory bodies (EPA-equivalent, Department of Mining, state and federal levels) Extensive environmental and safety reviews Public comment periods addressing activist concerns Comparison to U.S. permitting challenges (6 years in Australia vs. 1-1.5 years in New Mexico) 3. Domestic Operations in North America Black Mountain's ongoing projects in the U.S.: Eagle Ford Shale (Webb and Dimmitt counties, Texas): Successfully drilling Austin Chalk wells with strong recent results Expansion strategy: Bidding on large South Texas assets in a competitive market Pecos Country Operating: Potential partnership opportunities in shallow sand sections 4. Oil & Gas Market Conditions in 2026 Discussion of current industry dynamics: Oil prices hovering around $67/barrel (predictions ranged from $45-$58) Strong deal flow and M&A activity despite low price forecasts Shift toward PDP (Producing, Developed, Producing) assets for predictable cash flow Buyer's market for assets; strategic timing for acquisitions Production constraints and rig count impacts on U.S. unconventional output 5. Energy Policy & Regulatory Environment Broader context for the industry: Current administration's focus on deregulation and removing permitting roadblocks Comparison of permitting timelines across states (Texas vs. New Mexico) Energy security as national security The importance of domestic energy independence 6. Business Strategy & Capital Allocation George's approach to growth: Balancing exploration (undeveloped assets) with production (PDP assets) Drilling during low-price periods and buying leases strategically Partnering with major operators (EOG, Chevron) on horizontal wells Seeking international partners for large-scale projects requiring billions in capital Check out LFS Chemistry Sponsor of the Crude Truth here: https://lfschemistry.com/ Follow Rey on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reytrevinoiii/ Also, Pecos Operating Website: https://pecosoperating.com/ Also, the great Production team at Real News Public Relations https://www.realnewspr.com/

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

    3D AGO

    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 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/

    13 min
  3. Texas Energy Policy, EPA Rollbacks & Oil Industry Advocacy | Karr Ingham NAPE 2026

    6D AGO

    Texas Energy Policy, EPA Rollbacks & Oil Industry Advocacy | Karr Ingham NAPE 2026

    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/

    27 min
  4. Oilfield Grit Building a Solids Control Company from Scratch Randy Nicodemus NAPE 2026

    APR 30

    Oilfield Grit Building a Solids Control Company from Scratch Randy Nicodemus NAPE 2026

    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/

    14 min
  5. Deals, Minerals, and Oil’s Future Jim Holmes at NAPE 2026 A Relationship Driven Business

    APR 27

    Deals, Minerals, and Oil’s Future Jim Holmes at NAPE 2026 A Relationship Driven Business

    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/

    22 min
  6. Safety First: Building a Career in Oil and Gas

    APR 21

    Safety First: Building a Career in Oil and Gas

    Shannon Vint, Kight Hawk Safety & Rescue, stops by the Crude Truth Podcast Live at NAPE. 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. 1. Oil and Gas Industry in Texas & the U.S.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. 2. Safety in Oil and Gas OperationsA 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 RescueInnovative safety technologies, including camera monitoring systemsHow safety standards and competitiveness directly impact companies' ability to secure contracts3. Shannon Vint's Professional BackgroundThe podcast features Shannon Vint, a 20-year veteran of the oil and gas industry, discussing: Her career primarily focused on safety and rescue operationsHer current role at Nighthawk Safety and RescueHer additional consulting work through Collaborative Industrial ConsultingHer personal life as a mother of four4. Social Media & Networking in the IndustryAn important theme is the evolving role of professional networking, particularly: Shannon's strong LinkedIn presence and how she's leveraged it for professional growthThe importance of platforms like TikTok for industry promotionAdvice for newcomers, especially women, on building professional networks and social media presenceCheck out Night Hawk Safety & Rescue at https://nhsafety.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/

    17 min
  7. Jeff Krimmel Foundations of Energy - LIVE from NAPE 2026

    APR 17

    Jeff Krimmel Foundations of Energy - LIVE from NAPE 2026

    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/

    28 min
  8. Beyond the Hype: Why Traditional Oil & Gas Still Matters at NAPE - LIVE from NAPE 2026

    APR 14

    Beyond the Hype: Why Traditional Oil & Gas Still Matters at NAPE - LIVE from NAPE 2026

    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

    22 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

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.

Information

  • Creator
    The Crude Truth
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    177
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2022 The Crude Truth
  • Show Website
    The Crude Truth

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