Oilfield 360 Podcast

From a small village in India to the Global Energy Stage. In this episode of Oilfield 360, hosts David de Roode and Victoria Beard sit down with Soma Somasundaram, Executive Advisor to the CEO of SLB, and former CEO of recently acquired Champion X, to explore his remarkable rise from rural southern India to a leadership role shaping the future of energy. Soma shares career milestones, lessons from high-stakes mergers and acquisitions, and strategies for protecting company culture, plus his vision for expanding energy access to improve lives worldwide.Don’t miss this inspiring journey of resilience, leadership, and impact. 00:00 Introduction and Host Banter01:33 Guest Introduction: Soma Somasundaram02:40 Soma's Early Life and Education04:44 Career Beginnings at Baker Hughes06:52 Transition to Dover and Return to Oil & Gas10:24 Building a Portfolio at Dover14:37 Acquisition Strategies and Integration26:18 Balancing Standardization and Customization30:23 Champion X and SLB Merger Insights30:40 Cultural Alignment in Mergers33:36 Early Integration Success34:51 Proudest Moments at Champion X38:31 Personal Leadership Journey41:07 Servant Leadership and Role Models46:10 SLB's Acquisition Strategy52:55 Bettering Human Lives Foundation58:02 Future of the Energy Industry01:01:14 Closing Thoughts and Advice

What does it take to lead one of the fastest-growing companies in oil & gas?In this episode of Oilfield 360, hosts David deRoode and Victoria Beard sit down with Kaes Van’t Hof, CEO of Diamondback Energy, in Midland, Texas. From growing up in Newport Beach to competing in the US Open, from Wall Street banking to leading Bison Drilling & Field Services, Kaes shares his remarkable path to the helm of Diamondback. He discusses the company’s evolution, innovations in horizontal drilling and completions, the critical role of U.S. oilfield workers, and the leadership lessons that shape his vision for the future.A must-listen for anyone in energy.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:15 Location Change: Midland, Texas00:42 Guest Introduction: Kaes Van't Hof01:13 Kaes Van't Hof's Background02:19 Early Career and Move to Midland03:45 Diamondback Energy's Growth06:22 Challenges and Lessons Learned13:44 Leadership and Company Culture20:43 Recent Deals and Future Vision28:36 The Future of Oil Drilling and Inventory Challenges29:45 Balancing Short-Term and Long-Term Goals in the Oil Industry32:58 Power Needs and Efficiency in Oil Production35:31 Community Engagement and Education Initiatives38:42 Personal Insights and Hobbies43:40 Advocacy and Marketing in the Energy Industry52:29 Advice for Young Professionals54:40 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

What happens when a mechanical engineer takes on the future of energy?In this Oilfield 360 episode, hosts David de Roode and Victoria Beard sit down with Liberty Energy CEO Ron Gusek. After a quick chat about Victoria's Alaska fishing plans, Ron shares his path from engineer to CEO, discussing Liberty's strategic tech investments, including the digiFrac electric frac system and their groundbreaking nuclear partnership with Oklo.He also shares insights on company culture, Australian expansion projects, and Liberty's commitment to education and the betterment of human lives around the globe.Another conversation you shouldn't miss.00:00 Welcome and Alaska Adventure02:05 Introducing the Guest: Ron Gusek02:47 Ron Gusek's Early Life and Career Beginnings04:04 Transition to Oil and Gas Industry07:46 Joining Pinnacle Technologies14:40 Building Liberty Energy22:11 Innovations and Challenges at Liberty30:35 Company Culture and Employee Well-being43:16 Community Involvement and Core Values47:51 Introduction to the Bettering Human Lives Foundation48:17 Entrepreneur Support and Financial Impact48:52 Future Goals and Expansion Plans49:12 Personal Reflections and Broader Impact51:05 ESG Reporting and Industry Challenges56:02 Energy Education and Public Perception59:56 Advancements in Power Generation01:13:12 Leadership Transition and CEO Experience01:20:06 Vision for the Future01:25:37 International Expansion and Australia Operations01:30:02 Reflections and Advice for Future Leaders01:41:24 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

From Accountant to CEO: Marshall’s Leadership JourneyJoin hosts David de Roode and Victoria Beard on OilField 360 for a conversation with Marshall Dodson, CEO of Key Energy Services, on leadership, safety, and the ever-changing oil and gas industry. Discover his journey from accounting to CEO, how he’s innovating employee safety, and the role of culture, communication, and technology.Packed with insights for anyone interested in energy or leadership. Tune in now!00:00 Introduction and Catching Up00:12 Wedding Plans and Pastor Josh01:55 Introducing Marshall Dodson04:54 Marshall's Background and Career Journey12:14 Challenges and Changes at Key Energy15:38 Focus on Employee Welfare29:21 Recent Acquisition and Future Plans32:15 Personal Life and Hobbies34:02 Discussing Personal Preferences and Balance35:03 The Importance of Prioritization36:04 Career Advice and Work Ethic37:39 The Role of AI and Technology40:22 Leadership and Employee Development42:47 Safety and Efficiency in Operations52:39 Implementing Technology for Safety01:01:19 Final Thoughts and Personal Reflections

How do you lead through change in the energy sector? In this episode of the Oilfield 360 Podcast, hosts David de Roode and Victoria Beard sit down with James Stewart, CEO of One X Completion Services, for a deep dive into the future of oilfield services. From his early days in Nigeria with Schlumberger to building what came NexTier Oilfield Solutions now part of Patterson-UTI, James shares lessons from a career built on adaptability, innovation, and people-first leadership. The trio explores the latest in well completions, the growing role of technology, and why strong teams remain the true differentiator in today’s energy landscape. You won't want to miss this conversation with yet another legend of the oilfield as he is far from hanging up his spurs anytime soon.🎧 Tune in NOW!00:00 Introduction and Hosts' Banter01:28 Introducing the Guest: James Stewart02:06 James Stewart's Early Career and Schlumberger Days10:11 Transition to Private Equity and Building Companies18:08 The Birth of One X Completion Services29:07 Technological Innovations and Future Prospects39:05 Efficiency in Oil Production39:41 AI's Role in Enhancing Oil Extraction40:33 Challenges and Innovations in Oil Industry42:34 The True Cost of Energy Production46:26 Evolution of Work Environment in Oil Industry48:45 Stability and Future of US Oil Industry51:16 Career Highlights and Experiences01:00:33 Leadership and Mentorship in Oil Industry01:11:28 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Can energy solve poverty? Join hosts David de Roode and Victoria Beard for a thought-provoking episode of Oilfield 360 as they sit down with Dr. Scott Tinker, a globally recognized geologist, energy visionary, and advocate for energy education.Together, they explore Dr. Tinker’s remarkable career path, his mission to bridge the global energy divide, and the ambitious vision behind the Energy Corps initiative. From energy poverty to the evolving role of AI in the sector, this conversation unpacks the future of global energy and the importance of leveraging a diverse mix of energy sources to meet worldwide demand.A must-listen for anyone shaping — or rethinking — the energy landscape.00:00 Introduction and Co-Host Welcome00:36 Meet Dr. Scott Tinker01:27 Scott's Early Life and Career03:12 Family and Personal Life05:11 Energy Education and Switch Energy Alliance16:24 PBS Show and Filmmaking Adventures28:05 Global Energy Insights and Future Predictions45:52 Reflecting on Past Practices46:06 Discussing Global Poverty and Energy Access47:18 Energy Consumption Disparities49:03 Vision for Global Energy Future53:06 The Role of Education and Mentorship55:50 Challenges and Solutions in Energy Access01:11:35 The Impact of AI on Energy and Employment01:28:13 Final Thoughts and Advice

What makes a strong oilfield leader? In this episode of the Oilfield 360 Podcast, powered by Upright Digital, hosts David de Roode and James Wicklund sit down with Roe Patterson, investor, entrepreneur, and former CEO.From his roots in Snyder, Texas, to leading companies like ClearWell Dynamics and Drilling Tools International, and now with Marauder Capital, Roe shares hard-earned lessons on leadership, business resilience, and company culture.A candid conversation packed with insights from a true industry veteran.00:00 Introduction and Greetings00:50 Special Guest Introduction01:38 Rob Patterson's Background03:16 Early Career and Education04:25 Joining the Family Business06:39 Challenges and Lessons Learned09:05 Starting a New Venture09:27 Building a Business from Scratch13:48 Navigating Financial Struggles30:51 Corporate Culture and Leadership37:42 Company's Downfall and Bankruptcy38:30 Acquisition of Hanesville Water Assets39:42 Ventana's Success and Team41:08 Clearwell Dynamics Formation47:11 Behavioral-Based Safety Program57:26 Marauder Capital Fund01:08:57 Words of Wisdom and Final Thoughts

From the Oilfield to the Boardroom In this episode of The Oilfield 360, hosts David de Roode and James Wicklund sit down with Wayne Prejean, President and CEO of Drilling Tools International, to discuss his journey—from working in the oilfield wearing many different hats—to the boardroom of a publicly-traded oilfield service company.It’s a conversation full of real-world insights, hard-earned lessons, and honest reflections on leadership and resilience. More than just an industry discussion, it’s a down-to-earth look at what it takes to build something that lasts. Tune in now! 00:10 Discussing the State of OTC01:42 Introducing the Guest: Wayne Prejean02:09 Wayne's Early Life and Career Beginnings04:08 Working in the Oil Field: Challenges and Experiences11:56 Personal Life and Marriage16:36 Career Transitions and Horizontal Drilling Innovations30:32 Challenges in the Oil Industry31:29 The Importance of Continuous Learning32:41 Taking Risks and Volunteering33:54 Gaining Respect in the Field40:10 Career Progression and Mentorship53:56 Entrepreneurial Leap01:02:14 Rapid Business Growth and Challenges01:03:11 Buying Out a Business Partner01:03:56 Selling the Company to Varco01:08:00 Legal Battles and Patent Infringement01:14:45 Post-Sale Ventures and New Businesses01:21:50 Becoming a Public Company01:34:12 Reflections on Leadership and Family01:37:03 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

What does it take to go from the courtroom to the oilfield? On this episode of Oilfield 360, hosts David De Roode and James Wicklund talk with Lucas Jovi, President & CEO of Go Wireline.From his start as a lawyer in Las Vegas to leading a wireline company in North Dakota, Lucas shares key insights on technology, industry challenges, and the impact of Go Wireline’s move to an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP).A must-listen for anyone in the energy space!00:00 Introduction and Host Banter00:18 OTC Week in Houston01:53 Guest Introduction: Lucas Jovi02:38 Lucas Jovi's Background and Career Journey03:34 The Boom in Williston, North Dakota06:24 Starting Go Wireline15:35 Family Life and Moving to Williston18:48 Curling and Oil Field Technology26:50 Raising the Bar: Achieving NASA-Level Standards27:20 Scaling Up: From Small Business to Industry Competitor28:05 Challenges in the Wireline Sector29:10 Maintaining High Standards in a Competitive Market30:02 Expanding Operations and Infrastructure31:39 Employee Motivation and Retention34:12 The ESOP Transition: Empowering Employees40:29 Navigating Market Challenges and Opportunities44:16 The Role of Bankruptcy in the Oilfield Service Sector50:10 Strategic Growth and Equipment Management57:03 Final Thoughts and Words of Wisdom

What does it take to lead a global oilfield giant through a bold transformation? In this episode of The Oilfield 360, hosts David de Roode and Jim Wicklund sit down with Girish Saligram, CEO of Weatherford, whose unexpected journey—from medical devices to energy leadership—is filled with valuable insights and strategic advice. 🎧 In this episode:Girish’s unique path to the oilfield services worldThe strategic focus on free cash flow and operational disciplineWhy culture and innovation are key to long-term growthA forward look at the future of energy—and Weatherford’s role in itDon’t miss this candid conversation. Tune it now! 00:00 Welcome and Studio Introduction00:27 Introducing the Guest: Girish Saligram01:34 Grish Saligram's Career Journey06:21 Life Before the Oil Industry12:18 Transition to the Energy Sector18:24 Joining Weatherford During COVID25:44 Building a World-Class Communications Team26:20 Creating a Culture of Transparency and Accountability26:50 Developing a Value System29:08 The One Weatherford Spirit30:48 The Importance of Office Presence36:13 Future of Weatherford42:34 Leadership and Operational Strategy52:02 Reflections and Advice

In this episode, host David de Roode sits down with Mike Howard, Chairman and CEO of Howard Energy Partners, live from the Thrive Conference in Houston, Texas. Mike shares his inspiring journey—from starting as a chemical engineer in publicly traded companies to founding and leading Howard Energy Partners.Their conversation explores the vital role of oil and gas in modern life, the value of reliable and affordable energy, and Howard’s vision for growth in the U.S. and Mexico. They also dive into energy policy, public perception challenges, and how innovation is shaping the industry’s future.Don’t miss this insightful episode packed with a lot of experience!00:50 Podcast Sponsors and Their Contributions02:03 Welcome and Guest Introduction02:51 Mike Coward's Journey in the Oil and Gas Industry03:22 Howard Energy Partners and Its Operations04:29 Energy Infrastructure and Economic Development in Mexico11:34 Future Prospects and Challenges for Howard Energy Partners15:09 Energy Policy and Advocacy19:30 The Importance of Public Communication in the Energy Industry19:47 Energy Advocacy and Education20:38 Energy's Role in Alleviating Poverty20:55 Scott Kers and Switch Energy21:33 The 50-50-50 Initiative22:09 The Impact of Expensive Energy22:32 Challenges of Net Zero Policies24:46 The Paradox of Energy and Poverty25:49 The Role of Low-Cost Energy in Industry30:19 Innovation in the Energy Sector36:14 The Importance of Continuous Learning38:11 Closing Remarks and Future Plans

From the oil fields to the fairways! We sat down with Billy Brown, owner of Big Easy Ranch, to talk about his journey in the oil and gas industry and his latest venture—building a world-class golf course. Exciting things are on the horizon! Tune in to hear his story!

Join us on the latest episode of the Oilfield 360 Podcast, hosted by David de Roode with guest host Dave Bosco, the voice behind the Energy Espresso Podcast from the Upright Digital Podcast Network. This episode features an engaging conversation with Wes Finch, CEO of Crosscut Gas Partners, recorded at the Daniel Energy Partners Permian Basin BBQ Cook-off in Midland, TX. Wes shares his journey from starting out in the oil and gas industry with no prior knowledge to leading a pioneering gas distribution company. Discover the intricacies of building a midstream gas business, the challenges of navigating regulatory environments, and the critical role of sustainable practices in the energy sector. Wes's candid stories and insights into strategic business decisions make this episode a compelling listen for anyone interested in the dynamics of the energy industry and entrepreneurial leadership.

Navigating the Future of Energy with Marshall Adkins   In this episode of the Oilfield 360 podcast, hosts David de Roode and Jim Wicklund welcome Marshall Adkins, the formidable Head of Energy Investment Banking at Raymond James. Known for his deep industry insights and dubbed a "sage" by his peers, Adkins dives into a wide array of topics ranging from the evolution of the oil and gas sector to the intricacies of energy investment and the geopolitical dynamics shaping the market.    As the conversation unfolds, listeners are treated to Adkins' unique blend of humor, wisdom, and sharp analysis, providing a comprehensive look into the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for the energy industry.    Join us for a compelling dialogue that not only explores the current state of oil and gas but also delves into the personal journeys and philosophies of these seasoned industry veterans.

Charting the Course: Melissa Cougle on Leadership, Risk-Taking, and the Evolution of Ranger Energy Services - An insightful journey through Melissa Cougle's transformative career from the vibrant Baton Rouge to the forefront of the oil and gas industry. Join us as the CFO of Ranger Energy Services shares her profound experiences, from embracing change and overcoming challenges to her pivotal role in strategic mergers and fostering a culture of resilience. Discover Melissa's unique perspective on leadership, the value of taking calculated risks, and her unwavering commitment to her team and the broader industry evolution. Tune in now.

In this episode of The Oilfield 360 Podcast, hosts David de Roode and Jim Wicklund engage with Loren Singletary, a notable figure in the oil and gas industry, who shares his journey from his beginnings in Dallas to achieving strategic executive positions. Loren discusses the ups and downs of the oil market, his critical role in investor relations at National Oilwell Varco, and the insights gained through decades of industry experience. Loren also talks about his passion for golf, highlighting how it has influenced his life and career, including his work with various golf associations. This episode offers listeners a candid look at the personal and professional growth of someone deeply embedded in the oil and gas sector, while also touching on the broader industry evolution.

In this episode of the Oilfield 360 Podcast, Wayne Cutrer, CEO of Downhole Chemical Solutions, shares his journey from growing up in Louisiana with deep family ties in oil and gas to founding and leading a pioneering chemical solutions company in the industry. Recorded at the Thrive Energy Conference in Houston, Texas, Wayne discusses the inception of Downhole Chemical Solutions during the challenging oil price crash of 2015, alongside his business partner, Chase Copeland. He highlights their innovative approach to slick water fluid systems and the development of proprietary dry friction reducer technology. Wayne also delves into the company's strategic decision to become employee-owned through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), fostering a transformative corporate culture of shared success and resilience. The episode illuminates Wayne's belief in the importance of people, teamwork, and the potential for future growth and consolidation in the oilfield chemical sector.

In this engaging episode of the Oilfield 360 Podcast, we welcome Ryan Ezell, PhD, President and CEO of Flotek Industries as our distinguished guest. Ryan shares an insightful journey of innovation, leadership, and the pivotal role of chemistry in advancing the oil and gas industry. Alongside David de Roode and Jim Wicklund, we delve into Ryan's profound experiences, from his formative years in Mississippi to his impactful contributions at Halliburton and presently at Flotek, emphasizing the significance of green technology and sustainable practices in energy production. Ryan's unique perspective on balancing operational excellence with environmental stewardship offers invaluable lessons on driving change and fostering innovation in a traditionally conservative industry. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of energy, technology, and leadership. Join us as Ryan enlightens us on the path to a more sustainable future in energy, the evolution of Flotek, and the enduring impact of mentorship and resilience in personal and professional growth.  

Recorded live at Corva's Corvacon event last month, Josh Lowrey engages with Corva's COO, Courtney Diezi, to unravel the essence of Corva - a game-changing software that's redefining efficiency in Drilling, Completions, Geoscience, and Sustainability.  Discover how Corva is not just about data, but about high-quality, actionable insights that drive productivity in the oilfield. Courtney sheds light on Corva's pivotal role in fracking, the advantages of their partner program, and the overall impact of working with Corva in accelerating the future of energy.  Tune in for an insightful journey into how Corva is powering progress, one data point at a time. 

On this episode of the Oilfield 360 Podcast, recorded live from the Daniel Energy Partners 2023 Permian Basin Barbecue powered by Upright Digital, the guys talk about community leadership in Midland, Texas. Your hosts, David de Roode and Josh Lowrey speak with Danny Wesson, COO of Diamondback Energy and Sam Sledge, CEO of ProPetro to discuss their connection to Midland and the Midland ISD School Bond that is up for a vote November 7th, 2023.    Both Sam and Danny share why they believe Midland voters need to vote "Yes" for the school bond this year, with early voting starting October 23rd ending November 3rd. We agree at the O360 that Midland needs this school bond, given the importance of education and the huge education infrastructure upgrade needed in Midland. The success of Midland is not only important to Texas but to the United States, and the world, for that matter. Spread the word and get out and vote Midland. It's for the kids and our future.   Find out more at Energize Midland Schools or Energize Midland Schools | Midland School Bond | Midland, TX, USA