The Mineral Rights Podcast: Mineral Rights | Royalties | Oil and Gas | Matt Sands

Welcome to The Mineral Rights Podcast! I'm here to help you to make the most out of your oil and gas mineral rights and royalty interests. From the latest mineral rights news to featured guests, get the knowledge and resources you need to manage your minerals and royalties.

MRP 307: Will the Price of Oil Fall Below $50 in 2026? What It Means for Your Royalty Income

In this episode, we dive into what is driving the recent downward pressure on oil prices. The Energy Information Administration released their October short-term energy outlook with a projection that caught our attention. They're forecasting that oil prices could fall to $47.77 per barrel in 2026—a 26% decrease from recent levels. That price sits below the $50 per barrel mark that industry analysts often cite as a critical breakeven point for shale profitability. For those of us who own mineral rights or receive royalty payments, this forecast has real implications worth understanding.  Be sure to listen to the full episode to learn our take on what oil prices are likely to do in 2026 and how this could impact future drilling and your oil royalties. As always, links to the resources mentioned in this episode can be found in the show notes at mineralrightspodcast.com.

11-13
42:56

MRP 307: Mineral Rights News November 2025

In this episode, we discuss the latest developments in the mineral rights and energy world. From an interesting battle over royalties under the Midland, Texas airport, OPEC plans to potentially increase oil output despite demand forecasts weakening, and the latest  developments in the Uinta Basin Railway project in Utah. As always, we wrap up with an analysis of the latest rig count numbers. Links to the articles and resources mentioned in this episode can be found in the show notes at mineralrightspodcast.com.

11-06
16:04

MRP 306: The Truth About AI and Natural Gas Prices: Real Demand or Just Another Bubble?

In this episode, we dive into what's driving natural gas prices higher and what mineral and royalty owners can expect in 2026 and beyond. We explore how two major forces are reshaping the market: the explosive growth of AI data centers that require massive amounts of electricity, and the continued expansion of liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports to meet global demand.  We break this all down into real numbers and what it could mean for natural gas prices in 2026 and beyond.  As always for links to the resources mentioned in this episode, check out the show notes at mineralrightspodcast.com.

10-30
36:28

MRP 305: Listener Questions Live from the NARO National Convention

In this live episode recorded at the National Association of Royalty Owners (NARO) National Convention in Oklahoma City in October 2025, we answered several live & unscripted questions from other NARO Members.  The recording quality isn't perfect but I think you will get a lot of value out of this episode as we deal with some real questions related to working with operators to learn about shut-in wells, multiple examples of tips and tricks for working with stubborn operators who will not respond to emails or phone calls, as well as several questions related to the ever present issue of orphan wells.  As always, links to the resources and other tools can be found in the show notes at mineralrightspodcast.com.

10-16
34:26

MRP 304: Understanding Texas Allocation Wells and Pooling

In this episode, we dive into one of the most unique and complex aspects of Texas oil and gas development: allocation wells and the state's unique approach to pooling mineral interests. Unlike most oil-producing states that have robust forced pooling statutes, Texas takes a different approach that gives mineral owners more control but creates significant complexity in how royalties are calculated and paid.  As always, more information and links to the resources mentioned in this episode can be found in the show notes at mineralrightspodcast.com.

10-09
34:39

MRP 303: Mineral Rights News October 2025

In this month's news episode, we explore "out of this world" developments in energy and mining that could reshape the future of mineral rights. The conversation ranges from asteroid mining to the growing energy demands of artificial intelligence data centers in West Texas, offering mineral and royalty owners fresh perspectives on emerging opportunities in the energy sector. As always, links to the articles and resources mentioned in this episode can be found in the show notes at mineralrightspodcast.com.

10-02
21:35

MRP 302: Celebrating 300 Episodes: Your Top 10 Favorite Episodes (so Far)!

In this episode, we celebrate reaching the milestone of over 300 episodes of the Mineral Rights Podcast!  In this special retrospective episode, we reveal your top 10 favorite episodes on website analytics and download numbers over the past 8 years.  Join us as we count down the top ten most popular episodes that have helped YOU, the listener, navigate this complex world of minerals and royalties. Stay tuned until the end because we also share our personal favorite guest interviews so far. As always, links to the resources and episodes mentioned can be found in the show notes at mineralrightspodcast.com.

09-25
41:36

MRP 301: Listener Questions September 2025

We're back to answer your questions in our 301st episode.  We tackle diverse listener questions ranging from lithium royalty rates, how to obtain marketable title, to complex Texas pooling regulations, to a success story that led a listener to discover new permitted wells on their minerals. The episode emphasizes the importance of thorough research using state commission websites, understanding the difference between receiving payments and having marketable title, and recognizing that sudden increases in purchase offers often signal upcoming drilling activity worth investigating before selling.  As always, links to the resources mentioned can be found in the show notes at mineralrightspodcast.com.

09-18
34:58

MRP 300: Land Investing Secrets with Jessey Kwong

In this episode, the co-founder of Pebble REI and host of "Land Investing Business Secrets" podcast reveals how his platform now serves both land investors and mineral rights companies. Discover the striking parallels between these two real estate niches, from direct mail campaigns to county records research. Jessey shares his unconventional start (including closing his first deal on the toilet via Facebook Marketplace), real success metrics, and how technology is streamlining property acquisition workflows. Whether you're curious about surface rights or looking for alternative real estate investments that share DNA with mineral rights, this conversation bridges two worlds in ways you won't expect. As always, the links to the resources mentioned in this episode can be found in the show notes at mineralrightspodcast.com. The information contained in this episode is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal, or investment advice.

09-11
46:36

MRP 299: Mineral Rights News September 2025

This episode covers several critical developments affecting mineral rights owners, from post-production deductions from royalty checks in North Dakotato Wyoming's controversial proposal for reclaiming abandoned mineral rights. We also discuss the recent Cactus Water Services Texas Supreme Court ruling on produced water ownership and how it provides clarity around hydrocarbons contained in produced water while leaving questions unanswered related to lithium and other valuable minerals.  All this and more!  As always, links to the articles discussed can be found in the show notes at mineralrightspodcast.com.

09-04
25:01

MRP 298: Sneak Preview of the 2025 NARO National Convention

In this episode, we provide an exclusive sneak peek of the upcoming National Association of Royalty Owners (NARO) National Convention in Oklahoma City from September 30 to October 3, 2025. This year's event at the Omni Hotel promises to be a comprehensive educational experiences for mineral and royalty owners, featuring sessions on mineral valuation, advanced lease negotiation strategies, and emerging legal issues like pore space rights. This annual gathering offers mineral and royalty owners an unparalleled opportunity to accelerate their knowledge, network with fellow owners from across the country, and gain direct access to the industry's top legal minds and technical experts. The convention features an impressive lineup of educational sessions covering everything from basic mineral ownership fundamentals to sophisticated data-driven development techniques in major basins like the Appalachian and Permian. Beyond the classroom learning, the convention's networking receptions create lasting connections with like-minded mineral owners, industry professionals, and NARO board members who continue supporting your success long after the event ends. Many attendees report that the relationships formed at these conventions prove as valuable as the formal education. Time is running short - regular registration rates end September 16th, and the discounted hotel rate of $219 per night expires September 9th (extended). For new members looking to join the NARO community, use discount code "MRPODCAST" for $25 off an introductory membership, allowing you to register at the significantly lower member pricing and become part of this supportive nationwide network of mineral and royalty owners.  Links to become a member and register can be found in the show notes at mineralrightspodcast.com. Don't miss this opportunity to invest in your mineral management education and join hundreds of fellow owners who understand that knowledge truly is the key to maximizing the value of your mineral and royalty interests.

08-28
23:39

MRP 297: Will the One Big Beautiful Bill Act Boost the Value of your Minerals?

In this episode, we break down the sweeping changes in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBA) and what they mean for mineral and royalty owners. While this behemoth 940-page legislation touches on a lot of different areas, we focused on the provisions that could directly or indirectly impact our listeners. It's no surprise that this bill represents a complete reversal from the previous administration's energy policies; it creates what may be the most favorable environment for oil and gas development that we've seen in decades. From mandatory quarterly federal lease sales to restored tax advantages for drilling companies, locking in the estate tax limit, and more.  Listen to learn if this bill could boost the value of your mineral rights (either directly or indirectly). As always, links to the resources discussed in this episode can be found in the show notes at mineralrightspodcast.com.

08-21
36:19

MRP 296: Listener Questions August 2025

In this episode, we tackle eight detailed questions from mineral rights owners across the country, including Stephen, Tracy, Kathy, Caesura, Linda, Julie, Nancy, and Tim. The episode covers complex topics ranging from pooling versus allocation wells in Texas, when minerals are at their peak value, to strategies for avoiding common scams targeting mineral rights owners. We provide practical, actionable advice for both seasoned and new mineral rights owners navigating everything from lease negotiations to tax implications of inherited properties. As always, the resources mentioned in this episode can be found in the show notes at mineralrightspodcast.com.

08-14
38:08

MRP 295: Mineral Rights News August 2025

In this episode we discuss the latest oil & gas and mineral rights news for August of 2025.  From an oil market characterized by uncertainty and volatility, the latest outlook for precious metals, and what the future holds for fossil fuels (you might be surprised by the answer), we explore how geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainty are creating ripple effects throughout the energy sector.  As always, we wrap up with the latest drilling rig count and a discussion on where things might head next.  Links to the articles and resources mentioned can be found in the show notes at mineralrightspodcast.com.

08-07
20:07

MRP 294: Are Your Royalties Safe Online? Cybersecurity Tips for Mineral Owners

Mineral and royalty owners face unique cybersecurity risks that most people never consider. From fraudulent emails requesting banking changes to sophisticated scams targeting royalty payments, cybercriminals increasingly view mineral owners as attractive targets due to their regular income streams and valuable assets. In this essential episode, we break down the most common digital threats facing mineral owners and provide straightforward, non-technical strategies to protect your personal information, financial accounts, and royalty payments. Whether you're tech-savvy or prefer to keep things simple, you'll discover practical steps you can implement immediately to safeguard your mineral income and personal data from online criminals.  As always, links to the resources mentioned in this episode can be found in the show notes at mineralrightspodcast.com.

07-31
32:42

MRP 293: Why Your Royalty Checks Keep Dropping (And How to Predict What's Next)

In this technical but accessible episode, we demystify Decline Curve Analysis (DCA), the proven scientific method that oil companies have used for 80 years to predict how much oil and gas a well will produce over its lifetime. This episode is essential listening for mineral owners who want to understand how their future royalty payments are calculated and why their checks start high and then decline over time.  Be sure to listen as I tell you how you can learn to forecast your future royalty payments yourself (and when you have your minerals valued you will understand the process that is used).+ As always, links to the resources mentioned can be found in the show notes at mineralrightspodcast.com.

07-17
46:19

MRP 292: Listener Questions July 2025

In this episode, we tackle questions submitted by Jean, Cole, Stuart, Melissa, Greg, Janet, C.J., and Lowell ranging from finding updated unit descriptions in Texas to organizing digital records and planning for the next generation. The episode provides practical guidance on navigating state regulatory websites, understanding the differences between production and sales volumes, establishing tax basis for mineral sales, and preventing mineral rights fragmentation through proper estate planning. As always, links to the resources mentioned in this episode can be found in the show notes at mineralrightspodcast.com.

07-10
36:55

MRP 291: Mineral Rights News July 2025

In this month's mineral rights news episode, we cover significant developments affecting mineral and royalty owners across the United States including a new USGS report on untapped oil under federal lands, recent Arkansas lithium royalty decisions, recent geopolitical impacts on oil markets, and shifting drilling patterns across major U.S. basins! As always links to the articles and resources mentioned in this episode can be found in the show notes at mineralrightspodcast.com.

07-03
24:24

MRP 290: Listener Questions June 2025

In this month's listener Q&A episode, we tackle seven diverse questions covering inheritance challenges, tax strategies, emerging lithium opportunities, and practical lease evaluation.  Be sure to listen to hear actionable guidance for mineral owners navigating complex situations, from dealing with inherited properties to understanding the difference between pooling and allocation wells.  As always, links to the resources mentioned in this episode can be found in the show notes at mineralrightspodcast.com.

06-26
42:20

MRP 289: The Essential Learning Guide for Mineral Owners

https://mineralrightspodcast.com/mrp-289-the-essential-learning-guide-for-mineral-owners/Managing mineral rights and royalties can feel overwhelming, especially when you're first starting out or have recently inherited these assets. The oil and gas industry operates with its own complex language of technical terms and acronyms that can make even seasoned professionals feel lost at times. However, with the right educational foundation and knowing where to find reliable information, mineral owners can successfully navigate this landscape and make informed decisions about their valuable assets. This episode provides a curated guide to the most valuable learning resources available today, from beginner-friendly organizations to advanced technical references. Links to these resources can be found in the show notes at mineralrightspodcast.com.

06-19
37:57

Michael Turek

I wonder if they will go after avocado growers for windfall profits if a hurricane wipes out half the production.

06-07 Reply

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