Oil and Gas Upstream
Oil and Gas Upstream explores what is happening in the upstream oil and gas industry. Host Elena Melchert brings value, unity, and information to the energy industry one conversation at a time. Guests of this show bring stories from various sectors of the industry.
Episodes
Black & Veatch, Leading in Floating LNG Technology with Brian Mandelbaum | Ep 347
Sponsored by IFS – Purpose-built industrial AI DESCRIPTIONIn this episode, Elena Melchert interviews Brian Mandelbaum, Vice President at Black & Veatch, about the future of LNG, floating LNG technology (FLNG), and the critical role of energy in global development. They explore the technical, economic, and geopolitical aspects of LNG projects, risk management, and the evolving […]
Vycarb the CO2 Capture/Storage Poised to Transform Heavy Industry with Dr. Garrett Boudinot, Vycarb | Ep 346
Sponsored by IFS – Purpose-built industrial AI DESCRIPTIONIn this episode, climate scientist turned entrepreneur Dr. Garrett Boudinot shares the innovative technology behind Vycarb, a company developing a groundbreaking method to accelerate ocean carbon sequestration by converting CO2 into bicarbonate. Discover how this solution offers a scalable, permanent, and low-cost approach to industrial car
Produce energy better: lessons from the Bakken with John Hamling, UNDEERC | Ep 345
Sponsored by IFS – Purpose-built industrial AI DESCRIPTIONIn this episode, recorded in person at the 2026 SPE-AAPG-SEG CCUS Conference, The Woodlands, TX, Host, Elena Melchert, talks with John Hamling, Asst. Vice President, Strategic Partnerships at the University of North Dakota Energy & Environmental Research Center. John shares insights about the transferability of research results from [&#
How BrightAI Is Transforming Critical Infrastructure with Alex Hawkinson, Founder and CEO | Ep 344
Sponsored by IFS – Purpose-built industrial AI DESCRIPTIONIn this episode, Alex Hawkinson, CEO of Bright AI, shares with Host, Elena Melchert, insights on how physical AI is transforming critical infrastructure sectors like energy. Discover how advanced sensors, robotics, and AI models are boosting productivity, safety, and sustainability in oil and gas operations. KeywordsPhysical AI, IoT, [̷
Understanding Capital Intensity in the Oil and Gas Industry with Dr. Dale Nesbitt, Arrowhead Economics | Ep 343
Sponsored by IFS – Purpose-built industrial AI Brought to you on OGGN, the largest and most listened-to podcast network for the oil and energy industry. Sign up for OGGN newsletters here.Visit the OGGN Merch store here.Curious about podcast advertising? Learn more here. More from OGGN … PodcastsLinkedIn GroupLinkedIn Company Page
Unlocking Terawatts: The Future of Geothermal Energy with Project InnerSpace | Ep 342
Sponsored by IFS – Purpose-built industrial AI DESCRIPTONIn this episode, Host, Elena Melchert, interviews Daniel Moreno-Garcia, VP Research, Project InnerSpace about the future of geothermal energy, its technological parallels with oil and gas, and the role of industry collaboration and innovation in scaling geothermal solutions worldwide. LINKShttps://www.canarymedia.com/articles/geothermal/xpri
From Field Signals to Financial Decisions: Interview Sonali Singh, SVP Quorum Software | Ep 341
Sponsored by IFS – Purpose-built industrial AI DESCRIPTIONIn this interview, Host, Elena Melchert, talks with Sonali Singh, SVP of Product at Quorum Software, as she shares her extensive experience in AI, software development, and energy. She discusses the evolution of AI from deterministic to agentic workflows, its applications in oil and gas, and how it […]
The Power of Natural Gas: Louisiana’s Role in a Clean Energy Future with Senator Mary Landrieu | EP 340
Sponsored by IFS – Purpose-built industrial AI DESCRIPTIONIn this insightful interview, former Senator Mary Landrieu (D-LA) discusses with Host, Elena Melchert, the vital role of natural gas in the energy transition, Louisiana’s energy industry, and the importance of a balanced approach to energy policy. She shares her career journey, the significance of energy for global […]
Revolutionizing Geothermal Energy: New Patents and Technologies with Dr. Chris Liner | Ep 339
Sponsored by IFS – Purpose-built industrial AI DESCRIPTIONIn this episode, Host, Elena Melchert, and Dr. Christopher Liner, Science Advisor for RAM Geothermal, discuss innovative geothermal technologies, including new patents that could revolutionize geothermal energy extraction. He shares insights from his extensive industry background, academic research, and recent patents, highlighting how thes
CCUS Tax Incentives and in the Big Beautiful Bill Act with Elizabeth McGinley, Tax Attorney, Bracewell | Ep 338
Sponsored by IFS – Purpose-built industrial AI In this episode, Host, Elena Melchert interviews tax lawyer Elizabeth McGinley about the intricacies of CCUS, tax credits like 45Q and 45Z, and the evolving landscape of carbon capture, utilization, and storage industry. They explore the technical, legal, and financial aspects of CCUS projects, including permitting, contracts, and […]
Permitting reform with Chris Treanor, PAGE recorded in person at CERAWeek by S&P Global | Ep 337
Sponsored by IFS – Purpose-built industrial AI In this episode, Host, Elena Melchert talks with Chris Treano, Executive Director of Advocacy Group for Partnership to Address Global Emissions (PAGE) about the need for permitting reform to expand American energy infrastructure, how it can alleviate costs for consumers and grow our economy, and the prospects for […]
Appalachian Energy Symposium, April 20-21, 2026, at Marietta College | Ep 336
Sponsored by IFS – Purpose-built industrial AI This episode features Host, Elena Melchert, Don Conkle, Trustee, Marietta College Board of Directors, and Dr. Ben Stuart, Dean, Center for Earth, Energy, and the Environment, discussing the upcoming energy symposium at Marietta College, featuring keynote presentation by Dr. Scott Tinker, panel focusing on energy diversity, speaker on […]
Asset Management During Volatility with Herman Nieuwoudt, IFS Energy Resources | Ep 335
Sponsored by IFS – Purpose-built industrial AI Episode Description In this episode recorded in person at 2026 CERAWeek by S&P Global, Host, Elena Melchert, talks with Herman Nieuwoudt, President, IFS Energy Resources, about what is needed to succeed during times of extreme volatility. The energy industry is experiencing rapid technological change, enabling greater resilience and improved [R
Conversation with Karen Olson, President, Olson Turner Enterprises, Houston, TX in person at the 2026 HFTC | Ep 334
Sponsored by IFS – Purpose-built industrial AI In this episode, Host, Elena Melchert, talks with Karen Olson, President, Olson Turner Enterprises about the history of the HFTC, and provides a complete summary of the Opening Panel Session on the first day of HFTC 2026 sharing key messages she heard from Panelist, Assistant Secretary Kyle Hausveit, […]
Future of Work Management with Ted Pardee, CRO, Kognitiv Spark | Ep 333
Sponsored by IFS – Purpose-built industrial AI In this episode, Elena Melchert interviews Ted Pardee, CRO, Kognitiv Spark, about the transformative potential of augmented reality and AI in the oil and gas industry. They explore various use cases, and how these technologies enhance safety, training, and operational efficiency in remote and challenging environments. https://www.kognitivspark.com/lin
Tyler Rice, SPM Oil and gas, continuous pumping and linear pressure control | Ep 332
Sponsored by IFS – Purpose-built industrial AI In this episode of Oil and Gas Upstream, host Elena Melchert interviews Tyler Rice, Pressure Control Sales Manager at SPM Oil and Gas. Tyler shares his journey into the oil and gas industry, discussing his diverse experiences and the evolution of pressure control technology. The conversation delves into […]
Navigating Data Management Challenges with Cindy Sullivan, Principal Consulting at ORTECHA | Ep 331
Sponsored by IFS – Purpose-built industrial AI In this episode, Host, Elena Melchert, discusses the evolution of data management in the oil and gas industry with Cindy Sullivan, a Principal Consultant at ORTECHA. They explore the challenges of data quality, the importance of metadata, and the role of AI in data management. The conversation highlights […]
Reservoir modeling drives revenue growth with Carlos Granado of CMG | Ep 330
Sponsored by IFS – Purpose-built industrial AI In this episode, Host, Elena Melchert talks with Carlos Granado, Regional Director USA at Computer Modelling Group Ltd (CMG) who shares insights about how deeper understandings about subsurface reservoirs can drive revenue growth. Reservoir and production modeling for oil and gas and related subsurface fields aids precision in […]
Designing technologies that solve problems found both in outer space and thousands of feet underground with Emerson’s Paine Brand | Ep 329
Sponsored by IFS – Purpose-built industrial AI In this episode, Host, Elena Melchert, talks with Tom Hansen, Nick Thelin, and Jason Thompson of Emerson’s Paine Brand. They discuss the evolution of transducers, their applications in oil and gas and aerospace, and the engineering challenges faced in design and manufacturing. The conversation highlights the importance of […]
Lewis Matthews, CEO, Project Geminae | Ep 328
In this episode of Oil and Gas Upstream, host Elena Melchert interviews Lewis Matthews, CEO of Project Gemini. They discuss Matthews’ journey into the oil and gas industry, the importance of data and AI in modeling and decision-making, and how Project Gemini is revolutionizing portfolio optimization through innovative techniques. The conversation highlights the integration of […]
Skip York, Global Energy Fellow, Baker Institute at Rice University | Ep 327
Brought to you on OGGN, the largest and most listened-to podcast network for the oil and energy industry. Sign up for OGGN newsletters here.Visit the OGGN Merch store here.Curious about podcast advertising? Learn more here. More from OGGN … PodcastsLinkedIn GroupLinkedIn Company Page
David Smith, Vice President, Black Pearl Technologies | Ep 326
In this episode, Host, Elena Melchert, talks with David Smith, Vice President, Innovation, Black Pearl, about their innovative technologies such as Beacon and Zephyr.  They discuss David’s diverse background, and insights into hydraulic fracturing, and partnership between company and client in technology development.  The conversation also touches on the philosophy behind the company nam
Magnetic Bright Spots with Bill Rhea, Pilot Exploration | Ep 325
In this episode, Host, Elena Melchert talks with Bill Rhea, Pilot Exploration, talks about knowing where to drill thus eliminating dry holes through the use of technology based on sedimentary residual magnetics (SRM) magnetic bright spots (MBS) based on understanding the full magnetic spectrum of the earth especially the Flex Trend in the Gulf of […]
Navigating the Oil and Gas Landscape with Energy Innovation Capital | Ep 324
In this episode of Oil and Gas Upstream, host Elena Melchert and Sarah Kern, Director of Strategic Engagement at Energy Innovation Capital discuss Sarah’s career journey from electrical engineering to the drilling industry, her involvement in industry organizations, and the success of the ATCE 2025 conference. The conversation also touches on leadership changes within SPE, […]
Andy Cordova, President, Lufkin Industries | Ep 323
In this episode of Oil and Gas Upstream, host Elena Melchert interviews Andy Cordova, president of Lufkin Industries, discussing the evolution of rod lift technology and its significance in the oil and gas industry. They explore Lufkin’s history, the transition from conventional to modern reservoirs, and the challenges faced in managing production from horizontal wells. […]
Lisa BlankenburgTechnical Sales Director for TAQA | Ep 322
In this episode of Oil and Gas Upstream, host Elena Melchert talks with Lisa Blankenburg, North American Technical Sales Director at TAQA, about her career journey from nursing to a leading role in oil and gas. They discuss TAQA’s innovative technologies, such as sand screens, production enhancement, and swell plug solutions; used to tackle challenges […]
The Future of Drilling: Mahmoud Nasef | Ep 321
In this episode of Oil and Gas Upstream, host Elena Melchert speaks with Mahmoud Nasef, Regional Business Development Manager for NOV in Dubai. They discussed Mahmoud’s journey into the oil and gas industry, the role of a regional business development manager, and the innovative Downhole Broadband Solutions (DBS) technology that is transforming drilling operations. The […]
Dena Wiggins, President and CEO, Natural Gas Supply Association | Ep 320
In this episode, Host, Elena Melchert, meets with Dena Wiggins, NGSA. They discuss the role of NGSA in the natural gas industry, the importance of infrastructure and permitting, the critical nature of natural gas storage, and the dynamics of pricing in the market. They also touch on the impact of shale development on energy independence, […]
Digital Twins in Oil and Gas with Adam McCullough | Ep 319
In this episode of Oil and Gas Upstream, host Elena Melchert speaks with Adam McCullough, Alaska Program Manager at NV5 Geospatial, about the transformative role of geospatial technologies in modern energy projects. From LIDAR and thermal imaging to bathymetric mapping and digital twin systems, Adam explains how these innovations help oil and gas operators make […]
Claudia Molina, Sequen Technologies, recorded at URTEC 2025 Conference Houston | Ep 318
In this episode, Elena Melchert interviews Claudia Molina, President, Seguen Technologies, discussing her extensive background in the oil and gas industry, the importance of data science, and the intersection of technology and human expertise. They explore the concepts of commercial and technical viability, the role of curiosity in career development, and the perception of risk […]
URTEC 2025, Houston, Tx | Ep 117
In this episode of Oil and Gas Upstream, host Elena Melchert engages with the Program Co-Chairs of the 2025 URTEC “Unconventional Resources Technology Conference”, discussing the recent evolution of unconventional resources production, the integration of geothermal energy, and the future of the oil and gas industry. The guests share their backgrounds, the significance of URTEC […]
Repurposing Offshore Infrastructure Ram Seetharam | Ep 316
In this episode, Elena Melchert interviews Ram Seetharam, the ROICE Executive Director, at the University of Houston, discussing new life for old energy assets. The conversation covers the potential for reusing decommissioned oil and gas platforms for renewable energy projects, including offshore wind, hydrogen production, and CO2 sequestration. Ram shares insights from his extensive experience [&
Sally Goodson, President, Goodson Energy Advisors | Ep 315
In this episode of Oil and Gas Upstream, host Elena Melchert speaks with Sally Goodson, President of Goodson Energy Associates, about her journey in the oil and gas industry, the challenges faced by women in a male-dominated field, and her book ‘Upstream Dream’. They discuss the importance of perseverance, mentorship, and the evolving landscape of […]
Building a Sustainable Energy Future with Dr. Susan Nash, AAPG | Ep 314
In this episode of Oil and Gas Upstream, host Elena Melchert interviews Dr. Susan Nash, Director of Innovation, Science, and Technology at the American Association of Petroleum Geologists. They discuss Dr. Nash’s journey in the energy sector, the challenges of energy poverty, the importance of education and training in energy access, and innovative solutions like […]
Mentorship, Innovation, and Energy Transition with Susan Howes | Ep 313
In this episode of Oil and Gas Upstream, host Elena Melchert interviews Susan Howes, President, SCA Subsurface Consultants Associates. They discuss Susan’s journey in the oil and gas industry, the intricacies of upstream operations, and the importance of reservoir engineering. The conversation also touches on the challenges and innovations in subsurface engineering, the role of […]
Bolting Solutions for Oil & Gas Innovation with Eric Junkers | Ep 312
In this episode, Elena Melchert interviews Eric Junkers, President, Hytorc, discussing the evolution and importance of bolting systems in the oil and gas industry. They explore the science behind bolting, the tools and technologies used, and Hytorc’s role in significant events like the Deepwater Horizon incident. Eric emphasizes the company’s commitment to safety, efficiency, and [R
Mr. Tak Ishikawa on the Mitsubishi Heavy Industries | Ep 311
In this episode of Oil and Gas Upstream, host Elena Melchert interviews Tak Ishikawa, President and CEO of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries America (MIH). They discuss the company’s extensive history, its significant role in the energy sector with DOE investment, particularly in natural gas and carbon capture technology, and the future of energy in the context […]
Adsorption in action: The Science Driving CCUS with Matthew Stevenson | Ep 310
In this episode, Elena Melchert interviews Matthew Stevenson, Chief Revenue Officer, Svante, about the advancements in carbon capture technology and its significance in addressing climate change. They discuss the different methods of carbon capture, particularly focusing on adsorption, and the role of industries like cement in carbon emissions. Matthew shares the evolution of Svante’s techno
American production of oil and gas with Anne Bradbury | Ep 309
In this conversation, Elena Melchert interviews Anne Bradbury, President and CEO of AXPC, discussing the role of independent oil and gas producers in the U.S. energy landscape. The benefits of U.S. export of oil and gas, sound regulatory and permitting requirements and certainty especially as related to infrastructure.  The discussion also highlights innovation within the […]
Elodie Morgan and Habib Al Khatib of SpotLight | Ep 308
This conversation with Host, Elena Melchert, Elodie Morgan and Habib Al Khatib, explores innovative approaches in geophysics, particularly focusing on SpotLight technology that revolutionizes seismic imaging and subsurface monitoring. The guests discuss the philosophical underpinnings of monitoring, the journey of building SpotLight, and the challenges faced in the carbon capture and storage (CCS)
Where A.I. Meets Permitting | Ep 307
In this conversation, the founders of Clas VI.AI discuss the challenges faced in the oil and gas industry, particularly regarding the administrative burdens associated with permitting processes. They emphasize the need for efficiency and how AI technology can streamline these processes, ultimately leading to faster project approvals and reduced costs. The discussion also touches on […]
Navigating the Challenges of CCUS Permitting with Zach Liu | Ep 306
In this episode, Elena Melchert, sat down with Zach Liu, Director of CCUS Subsurface at Harvest Stone Low Carbon Partners, to explore the complex regulatory and technical landscape of Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) permitting. Recorded live at the SPE-AAPG-SEG 2025 CCUS Conference in Houston, Texas, this conversation dives into key permitting challenges, strategies […]
Innovations in CO2 Sequestration and Seismic Data with Malc Kent | Ep 305
In this episode, Elena Melchert, Host, talks with Malc Kent, Viridien, about the evolution of Viridian, its legacy in the oil and gas industry, and the innovations in CO2 sequestration and seismic data. He shares his personal journey in the industry, emphasizing the value of beginning his career production. The discussion also covers the role […]
David Riestenberg at the SPE-AAPG-SEG Carbon Capture Utilization and Storage Conference | Ep 304
In this conversation, Host, Elena Melchert interviews David Riesenberg who discusses the significance of carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS) in addressing climate change. They explore the technical, regulatory, and operational aspects of CCUS, including the history of CO2 injection, the importance of monitoring and regulatory frameworks, and the international landscape of CCUS initiativ
Navigate the Challenges of Produced Wate w/ Nick Nicholas & Andrea Bautista | Ep 303
In this episode, Elena Melchert discusses the critical role of water in the oil and gas industry with guests Nick Nicholas and Andrea Bautista. They explore the complexities of produced water, its treatment, and the economic implications of water management. The conversation highlights the importance of sustainability and collaboration in addressing water challenges, emphasizing the […]
Decarbonizing Oil & Gas with ERM and SLB | Ep 302
 In this episode of the Oil and Gas Upstream podcast, host Elena Melchert discusses the importance of sustainability and decarbonization in the oil and gas industry with guests Trey Schaffer, Senior Partner, Environmental Resources Management (ERM) and Farshid Mostowfi, Technology Advisor and Environmental Sustainability Champion, SLB.   They explore the origins of the Decarbonization Co
Decarbonization in Oil and Gas:Trey Shaffer & Farshid Mostowfi
In this episode of the Oil and Gas Upstream podcast, host Elena Melchert discusses the importance of sustainability and decarbonization in the oil and gas industry with guests Trey Schaffer, Senior Partner, Environmental Resources Management (ERM) and Farshid Mostowfi, Technology Advisor and Environmental Sustainability Champion, SLB.   They explore the origins of the Decarbonization Congress
The Future of Financial Modeling with Lachlan Hughson | Ep 300
In this conversation, Elena Melchert and Lachlan Hughson discuss the intersection of finance and engineering within the oil and gas industry. They explore the importance of upgrading the finance function to improve decision-making, the role of software in financial modeling, and the impact of financial decisions on society. Lachlan emphasizes the need for a probabilistic […]
Blue Energies’ Journey into Liberia Deepwater Oil and Gas | Ep 299
In this episode, Elena Melchert interviews James Deckelman, CEO of Blue Energies, discussing the company’s upcoming public listing and its strategic positioning in the oil and gas sector. They explore the dynamic market conditions, the advantages of a reconnaissance license, and the potential impact of Blue Energies’ operations in Liberia. The conversation highlights the challenges [&#
Revolutionizing Carbon Management with Matthew Stevenson, Svante | Ep 298
In this episode, Elena Melchert interviews Matthew Stevenson, Chief Revenue Officer of Svante, a carbon management company focused on innovative carbon capture technologies. They discuss the importance of carbon capture in addressing climate change, the company’s journey towards commercialization, and the technological advancements that make Svante’s approach unique. The conversation a
Offshore Facilities With David Boggs, Energy Maritime Associates | Ep 297
In this episode of Oil and Gas Upstream, host Elena Melchert speaks with David Boggs, Managing Director of Energy Maritime Associates. They discuss the floating production industry, the evolution of LNG in the US, and the various types of offshore facilities such as FPSOs, FSOs, TLPs, and SPARs. David shares insights into the lifecycle of […]
Transforming Natural Gas into Gasoline: Ernie Miller, CEO, Verde Clean Fuels | Ep 296
In this episode of Oil and Gas Upstream, host Elena Melchert interviews Ernie Miller, CEO of Verde Clean Fuels. They discuss Miller’s extensive background in the oil and gas industry, the deregulation of natural gas and power markets, and the innovative solutions Verde Clean Fuels offers for utilizing low-value natural gas. The conversation highlights the […]
Power Needs in the Oil and Gas Sector: Haglund and Bosch Rexroth with Collins Bioseh | 295
In this episode of Oil and Gas Upstream, host Elena Melchert interviews Collins Bioseh, a market segment manager for Haglund’s, a subsidiary of Bosch Rexroth. They discuss the role of Haglund’s in the oil and gas industry, focusing on their innovative hydraulic motors and their applications in various machinery. Collins shares his journey into the […]
Tachyus: The Future of Reservoir Management with Matt Elbert and Christan Perkins
In this episode of Oil and Gas Upstream, host Elena Melchert interviews Matt Elbert and Christan Perkins from Tachyus, a company focused on revolutionizing reservoir management through artificial intelligence and data analytics. They discuss the challenges and innovations in oil recovery, the importance of optimizing production strategies, and the role of technology in addressing environmental [&#
Innovative Insurance Solutions for the Energy Sector with Warren Spiwak, and Hilde Haviland, USI Insurance Services
In this episode of Oil and Gas Upstream, host Elena Melchert engages with guests Warren Spiwak and Hilde Haviland to discuss the complexities of energy risks and insurance and the intersection of energy, insurance, and financial strategies, emphasizing the importance of understanding risks and the evolving landscape of the industry. They also explore the importance […]
Dan Naatz, COO and Executive VP of IPAA at NAPE 2025 | Ep 292
In this conversation, Elena Melchert talks with Dan Naatz, Independent Petroleum Association (IPAA) about the partnership of IPAA with the North American Prospects Expo (NAPE) event, highlighting the importance of independent oil and gas producers in the U.S. He emphasizes the opportunities and risks in the industry, the continuous innovation and technology advancements, and the […]
Landmen make the Upstream oil and gas sector possible with Landman Courtney Childress | Ep 291
In this episode, host Elena Melchert talks with Courtney Childress about what happens BEFORE drilling for oil. What is a Landman, and what does he or she do? If you own subsurface minerals such as oil and gas, what do you do to monetize your holdings? Ms. Childers takes us through the process, step by […]
Engineered Salinity: Boosting Oil Production with Geoffrey Thyne | Ep 290
In this episode of Oil and Gas Upstream, host Elena Melchert interviews Jeffrey Thyne, an expert in oil recovery through water chemistry manipulation. They discussed Thyne’s extensive background in the oil and gas industry, the inception of his company ESAL, and the innovative techniques he developed to enhance oil recovery. The conversation delves into the […]
What you think you know about oil and gas with Sam Norwood, Student, Texas A&M | Ep 289
In this episode of Oil and Gas Upstream, host Elena Melchert engages with Sam Norwood, a petroleum engineering student at Texas A&M University. They discuss the evolving landscape of the oil and gas industry, the importance of technology and collaboration, and the role of petroleum engineers in addressing global energy needs. Sam shares insights from […]
Dwayne Purvis, Purvis Energy Advisors | Ep 288
Host, Elena Melchert, talks with Dwayne Purvis, Founder and Principal Advisor, Purvis Energy Advisors about integrating petroleum engineering with sustainable energy. Recorded in person at the SPE 2024 Annual Technology Conference and Exhibition. https://www.purvisenergyadvisors.com linkedin.com/in/dpurvispe  Brought to you on OGGN, the largest and most listened-to podcast network for t
Navigating Carbon with Deb Ryan, Swan Mountain Advisory | Ep 287
In this episode of Oil and Gas Upstream, host Elena Melchert speaks with Deb Ryan, CEO and founder of Swan Mountain Advisory, about the evolving landscape of the oil and gas industry, particularly in relation to carbon management, emissions reduction, and the integration of AI. They discuss the importance of adapting to new technologies and […]
Pierre Emmanuel d’Huart, SAIPEM, on oil, gas & SPE in Europe | 286
Elena talks with Pierre d’Huart at the SPE/ATCE 2024 conference in New Orleans about the oil and gas industry in Europe as well as SPE in Europe. Pierre is Director of Technology Development at SAIPEM and is the SPE Regional Director for Europe. He shares insights about Europe’s upside potential for producing gas, including Romania […]
Strategy & Growth in Oil & Gas with Tracy Gray | Ep 285
Elena talks with Tracy Gray, Former Vice President of Strategy, Marketing and Product Commercialization in Oil and Gas Automation. Tracy is a 2024 awardee of the Houston Business Journal’s “Women Who Mean Business in Energy” award. With 27 years’ experience in oil and gas leadership, Tracy discusses how a business strategy is the “fabric” that […]
Liquid Gold: NETL’s Research on Critical Minerals in Produced Water | Ep 284
Elena Melchert talks with geochemist Justin Mackey and Tom Tarka both at the at the U.S. Department of Energy, National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL) about Critical Minerals.  Critical Minerals are those minerals used in many applications, from cell phones and appliances to electric vehicles and solar panels. Justin is currently studying the resource potential of […]
Petroleum Powerhouses: Meet Ukraine’s Rising Stars at SPE’s ATCE 2024 | Ep 283
Ukrainian Petroleum Engineering students (student SPE members) from 5 student chapters of SPE across Ukraine talk with Elena Melchert about their goals and aspirations for careers in Petroleum Engineering and the future Ukrainian oil and gas industry. https://www.spe.org/en/section/250 Brought to you on OGGN, the largest and most listened-to podcast network for the oil and energy industry. [&
Tomas Reyna at the USA Hydrogen Alliance Conference | Ep 282
Elena talks with Tomas Reyna, Intern with Niche Consultants and student at Albright College in Redding Pa, studying Political Science. Tomas does legislative research among other things at Niche Consultants and is interested in Political Science because he is learning about a lot of different areas. He discussed his 3 take aways from the conference: […]
Future Energy Insights with Glen Davis at US Hydrogen Alliance
Host, Elena Melchert, talks with Glen Davis, current Director of Energy for the Virginia Departmet of Energy. Mr. Davis talks about the “all of the above” energy policy in Virginia and  the fact that energy demand is growing in the US and even at a rate of 5% year over year in Virginia. He said […]
Christmas Special 2024
In this festive OGGN Christmas Special, the hosts and co-hosts engage in a fun-filled quiz that tests their holiday knowledge. The conversation flows from introductions to a series of light-hearted trivia questions, with plenty of laughter and banter along the way. The episode wraps up with warm holiday wishes and a humorous note about one […]
Carlos Torres: Founder of Royal Oaks Energy, SPE Coordinator | ATCE 2024
Host, Elena Melchert, talks with Carlos Torres at the SPE/ATCE 2024 conference in New Orleans about his 24-year career in oil and gas that includes experiences in Asia, Venezuela and the US with SLB before founding his own energy services company. Episode Link https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlosatorres1 Brought to you on OGGN, the largest and most listened-to podcast network […]
Dr. Jeremy Boak: Geologist, Advisor, and Carbon Expert
Host, Elena Melchert, talks with Dr. Jeremy Boak about his over 40 years’ experience as a geologist in various roles from ARCO to the Department of Energy, the Colorado School of Mines, and currently as Consultant to Teverra where he is working on geothermal energy. Dr. Boak discusses produced water and its effects on the […]
Dr. Hamed Soroush, Founder and CEO, Teverra
Dr. Hamed Soroush talks with Host, Elena Melchert, about   In this episode of Oil and Gas Upstream, host Elena Melchert speaks with Dr. Hamed Soroush, founder and CEO of Tavera, about the company’s innovative approaches to subsurface technologies, including geothermal energy, carbon capture and storage (CCS), and energy storage solutions. They discuss the rebranding of […]
Derrick Whiting and Yani Araujo of Intertek Westport Technology Center discuss how Intertek is playing a role in CCUS methods and evaluations | Ep 277
In this episode, Elena Melchert talks with Derrick Whiting and Yani Araujo of Intertek at the CCUS conference in March 2024. They discuss how CO2 is effectively injected for storage and how Intertek evaluates the rock formation and effects of CO2 injection.  They discuss the long-term effects of C02 injection that must be evaluated to […]
Chris Wright, Founder and CEO, Liberty Energy, and Nominee for Secretary of Energy | Ep 276
Chris Wright talks with Host, Elena Melchert, about his career in energy, especially oil and gas, and an important timeline of industry contributions to making the USA a net exporter of energy. The Bettering Human Lives report is available for download at www.libertyenergy.com. Requests for the printed report can be made at Liberty’s website, or please contact BHL@libertye
Phil Cruver, Co-Founder and CEO and Bill Bartling, Co-Founder and Director of Regulatory Affairs at Geo2Watts | Ep 275
Host, Elena Melchert talks with Phil Cruver and Bill Bartling about the work they are doing at Geo2Watts to recycle idle or unplugged oil well bores to store thermal energy that can later be converted to electricity. https://www.geo2watts.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/phil-cruver-b24b845 Brought to you on OGGN, the largest and most listened-to podcast network for the oil and energy […
Kevin Silla, Director, Pristine Energy talks about using hydrogen discoveries around the world as a potential energy source. Recorded at the USA Hydrogen Alliance Conference on May 29, 2024 | Ep 274
Host, Elena talks with Kevin Silla, Director, Pristine Energy, about exploring for geologic hydrogen. Kevin began his oil and gas career in coventional oil and gas as Petroleum Landman and learned about discoveries of hydrogen in Africa while drilling for water and learned hydrogen is an abundant source around the world. Extracting H-hydrogen is similar […]
Andy Wang, Prescient Devices and Russell Whitney, Precision Drilling at the SPE/ATCE 2024 conference on drilling operations data and data management | Ep 273
Host, Elena Melchert, talks with both Andy Wang and Russell Whitney about the large amounts of data coming from equipment on drilling rigs and using it to further improve drilling operations both surface equipment and downhole equipment by using Artificial Intelligence (AI).  Episode Link https://www.precisiondrilling.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/russell-whitney-pmp https://www.prescientde
Mr. Simon Seaton, CEO, Society of Petroleum Engineers recorded live at SPE 2024 ATCE, New Orleans | Ep 272
In this episode, host, Elena Melchert, talks with Simon Seaton, new CEO for Society of Petroleum Engineers.  Listen to Simon as he recounts his career experience, how he came to be the new CEO of SPE, and an overview of the ATCE Opening Panel session, and the future of SPE and the role of SPE […]
Chris Martin, Global Business Development of Wings Travel Group: oil and gas unique travel needs | Ep 271
Host, Elena Melchert talks with Chris Martin, Sr. Vice President of Wings Travel Group, provides personalized custom travel for oil and gas personnel, from oversees air to transporting offshore crews destined for offshore; facilitating moving tools and equipment also including during time of war and COVID, and for oil and gas travelers with specific country […]
Travis Windholz, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Conduit, a total power solution for E&P and midstream companies | Ep 270
Elena Melchert talks with Travis Windholz, Managing Director of Conduit. Travis has 20+ years of experience in energy and power investing and leadership. Conduit was founded in 2022 as a total power solution, enabling E&P and midstream companies to utilize their own gas for power generation. Travis discussed the work Conduit does to provide natural […]
Jane Stricker, Executive Director of Houston Energy Transition Inititiave. Recorded live at CERAWeek, March 2024 | Ep 269
Elena Melchert talks with Jane Stricker about the Houston Energy Transition Initiave (HETI) which in an initiative of the Greater Houston Partnership. Ms. Stricker discusses how the business environment in Houston is a perfect place to handle all aspects of an Energy Transition because it has the science and  engineering talent as well as the […]
