In this episode of The Street Smart Podcast, we sit down with Lee Payne, Director of Sales and Marketing at Cold Bore Technology, to explore the power of networking and brand-building at the Thrive Energy Conference. We dive into how companies like Cold Bore and Wildcat Oil Tools are leveraging podcasting, social media, and customized outreach to enhance brand awareness, correct industry misconceptions, and create deeper connections with their audience.

Plus, we discuss the role of kindness in business, the importance of community-building, and the future of non-traditional marketing in an ever-changing industry.

If you're looking to expand your network, refine your marketing approach, and stay ahead in a competitive industry, this episode is a must-listen.

Join us at the Street Smart Podcast as we hit the road to the Permian Basin BBQ Cookoff in Midland, Texas!

In this episode, we sit down with Brad Remley from Baseline Energy Services to discuss the challenges and rewards of running a growing energy services company.

Brad shares his passion for his work, his journey from past roles at Exterran and ArchRock to his current position at Baseline, and the importance of staying connected with customers through transparent communication.

This is a candid discussion about confidence, courage, and career growth.

Tune in for an engaging mix of industry insights, personal anecdotes, and inspiration!

Join us at the Street Smart Podcast as we hit the road to the Permian Basin BBQ Cookoff in Midland, Texas!

In this episode, Justin Overstreet sits down with Jennifer Guerra, Executive Assistant at OneX and a newcomer to the oil and gas industry. Jennifer shares her journey of transitioning from managing a medical spa in The Woodlands to navigating the dynamic world of oilfield services.

We explore her impressions of oil and gas, the challenges of stepping into a rebranded company during a transitional period, and her unique role in assisting the CEO of OneX.

Jennifer also discusses her experiences at her first industry networking event, her approach to tackling diverse tasks in her position, and her thoughts on the industry’s reputation and necessity.

Whether you're curious about career transitions, the oilfield services world, or just looking for some insightful and candid reflections, this episode has something for everyone.

In this episode of The Street Smart Podcast, we explore the journey of Brian Cook, whose roots in the oil and gas industry run deep.

Introduced to the field by his father and grandfather, Brian's passion for this sector was ignited early on. After graduating from Texas A&M College in Kingsville, he quickly discovered the hard work and lucrative potential the industry held, not just for himself but also for his family.

In November 2019, Brian embarked on a groundbreaking initiative called Oilfield NextGen. This visionary project aims to revitalize trade jobs in America by providing high school students with opportunities and mentorship, preparing them for a spectrum of roles from technicians to senior management within the oil and gas industry.

Designed with industry insights, Oilfield NextGen not only focuses on career and educational guidance but also emphasizes rapid advancement, thorough training, and crucial safety awareness to equip the workforce for today's demands and future challenges.

Having founded several successful companies since the age of 24, Brian continues to be a significant player in the global oil and gas market. His story is a testament to what it means to be STREET SMART in a complex and evolving industry.

Tune in to hear Brian Cook share his insights, experiences, and the innovative ways he is contributing to the future of oil and gas.

In this episode of The Street Smart Podcast, we sit down with Brad “Gordinho” Barnes, a renowned BJJ and MMA coach who has shaped the careers of top fighters like UFC title contender Paul Buentello, Bellator veterans Ryan Quinn of American Top Team, and “King Mo” Muhammed Lawal.

Brad’s journey from his early days in MMA to becoming a respected black belt and influential coach in the BJJ world is filled with dedication, resilience, and a passion for the sport.

Brad shares his transition from MMA, which he began in 2000, to focusing on the technical aspects of Jiu Jitsu in 2006, influenced by his career in law enforcement. A 9-year veteran of the Ft Bend County Sheriff's Office and Midland Police Department, Brad now dedicates much of his time to self-defense and combatives, teaching realistic principles and concepts for real-world and law enforcement objectives as an adjunct instructor for Chad Lyman’s C4C PJJ.

Throughout the episode, Brad reflects on his achievements, and overcoming challenges that have tested his longevity in the sport. We also explore his influential role in the West Texas MMA scene.

Join us as we discuss Brad’s experiences, his approach to coaching, and lessons he has learned owning and operating a successful gym.

In this episode we sit down with Britton Siegert, a native of College Station, Texas, whose family roots trace back to the 1820s. Britton shares his journey from Texas A&M to a career in real estate and eventually to the oil and gas industry, where he discovered a passion for hydraulic fracturing and production enhancement. Through his experiences, Britton developed a deep understanding of oilfield operations and problem-solving.

Britton discusses the unique challenges of working in West Texas, where high turnover and inexperienced workers impact operational quality. He also discusses how personal tragedy in 2019 and the COVID-19 pandemic led him to reevaluate his life and career, ultimately founding Texas Integrity Acid Solutions in 2022. Britton's innovative approach to equipment production and his commitment to employee care and quality work have earned him client loyalty and industry recognition.

From navigating initial skepticism to achieving significant milestones, Britton's story is one of resilience, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of excellence in the oil and gas industry. Whether you're interested in entrepreneurship, oilfield operations, or personal growth, this episode offers valuable lessons from a seasoned professional who has weathered the ups and downs of the industry with determination and ingenuity.

Britton Siegert is absolutely STREET SMART!!!

Join us for an inspiring episode of the Street Smart Podcast as we learn about the remarkable journey of Roger Nevill, a high school dropout turned industry innovator. From humble beginnings in the oilfield to founding multiple successful companies, Roger's story is one of perseverance, vision, and groundbreaking achievements.

In this episode, we uncover Roger's early struggles and the pivotal moments that propelled him into the world of entrepreneurship. Against all odds, he leveraged his experiences in the oilfield to carve out a path of success, leading him to become a trailblazer in the green energy sector.

Discover how Roger's passion for innovation led him to explore the untapped potential of natural gas-powered commercial trucks. As the demand for sustainable transportation solutions grows, Roger seized the opportunity to revolutionize the industry, championing the use of natural gas as a cleaner alternative fuel.

Through insightful firsthand accounts, Roger shares his insights on overcoming challenges, fostering innovation, and driving positive change in the energy landscape. His journey serves as a testament to the transformative power of determination and vision.

Tune in to learn from Roger Nevill's extraordinary story and gain valuable insights into the intersection of entrepreneurship, sustainability, and industry disruption and see what makes him STREET SMART.

Join us for an inspiring episode featuring Dal Watson, President / CEO - Don Crawford and Associates, and close friend of our Host, Justin Overstreet.

We explore Dal's upbringing in West Texas (Odessa), his collegiate football days at Texas Tech University, and his journey into the working world, where he balanced multiple jobs, including delivering newspapers on the day his first child was born.

As Dal navigated the insurance industry, he experienced personal and professional growth, eventually rising to the role of President and CEO at Don Crawford and Associates in Midland, TX.

Dal also is a long-time sports official which is where he and Overstreet became close friends.

Tune in to hear Dal Watson's remarkable story of perseverance and success and hear what makes him absolutely STREET SMART!!!

In this episode from the 2024 Thrive Energy Conference we catch up with Tripp Edwards (CEO - Wildcat Oil Tools).

This discussion expands on the leadership and how Tripp works to be an active listener. We also discuss the current trend of large Oil Producers merging with each other and what that might mean for the Oilfield Services Industry.

In this episode from the 2024 Thrive Energy Conference we catch up with a couple of Street Smart Podcast alumni, Dan Hoffarth (Founder Citadel Drilling) and Dave Hoffman (COO Citadel Drilling).

This discussion expands on the leadership style at Citadel and how they continue to set the bar very high.

Aron Marquez epitomizes the essence of determination and ambition.

Born in Mexico, Aron immigrated to the United States with his family during his childhood, witnessing firsthand their work ethic in pursuit of a better life for him and his siblings.

As he got older, Aron discovered his innate knack for business and an unyielding drive for success. With this realization, he stepped into entrepreneurship.

Marquez founded Wildcat Oil Tools in 2012, a company that would become a prominent player in the oil and gas industry both domestically and internationally. Under his guidance, Wildcat Oil Tools not only thrived but also secured patents for several groundbreaking tools, showcasing Marquez's ingenuity and strategic acumen.

Driven by his entrepreneurial spirit and a passion for quality, Aron expanded his ventures, co-founding Flecha Azul Tequila alongside partner Abraham Ancer (LIV Golf). This venture garnered rapid acclaim for its exceptional craftsmanship and premium quality and has become known as "The Official Tequila of the Oil and Gas Industry".

Aron's entrepreneurial journey didn't stop there. He continued to diversify his portfolio, venturing into men's personal care with Ombre Men, coffee with Free Rein Coffee Company alongside Cole Hauser (Rip from Yellowstone), and whiskey with singer Michael Bublé (Fraser & Thompson).

Aron Marquez's journey is a testament to the "American Dream" and shows he is truly STREET SMART.

Jeff Lott is a true family man (who also happens to be Host Justin Overstreet's cousin).
Jeff moved from Oklahoma to the Midland, TX (Greenwood, TX) with his family just before his Senior Year in High School and ultimately found his calling in the heart of Permian Basin Oil Fields.
His passion for mechanics ignited a journey that led to the establishment, growth, and eventual exit of a thriving company - BASIN PUMP.
This episode uncovers the challenges Jeff faced and the individual lessons learned throughout that fueled his success.
Jeff's independent spirit is remarkable and his journey will no doubt inspire you.
Don't miss this insightful conversation showcasing the power of family roots and the determination to achieve entrepreneurial greatness and learn what makes Jeff Lott truly STREET SMART.

Raised in Abilene, TX, Jared Blong's ambition to become an entrepreneur was evident from an early age, though his journey to achieve this dream is a story in itself.

From donning wrestling singlets as a unique sales strategy to mastering risk management, and ultimately breaking into the oil and gas sector, Jared's unyielding determination and grit have always been his defining traits.

Today, Jared is a leading figure in the energy sector as the Founder and Partner of Octane Energy. Known for its outstanding contributions to the oil and gas industry, Octane Energy benefits from Jared's unique combination of technical know-how and visionary leadership. His role has been crucial in navigating Octane Energy through the ever-evolving challenges of the energy landscape.

Apart from his professional pursuits, Jared is the husband of Midland Mayor Lori Blong where his official title according to him is "First Bearded Lady".

Tune in for an engaging discussion where Jared shares his valuable insights on the Oil and Gas Industry, his journey in entrepreneurship, and what it takes to be STREET SMART.

Tim Lowrey is a Director of Sales at Plug Cryo Technologies, with over two decades of experience in driving product portfolio expansion across various sectors such as Energy, Technology, Manufacturing, and Cryogenic Gases. An accomplished entrepreneur, Tim co-founded Applied Cryo Technologies in 2012, a venture that significantly marked his career culminating in its acquisition by Plug Power in November 2021.

Widely recognized for his relentless dedication and forward-thinking mindset, Tim has established himself as a formidable presence in the capital equipment industry. His lead by example style has naturally developed profound industry insights that have been pivotal in steering through complex market dynamics and achieving sustained growth.

Tim and his wife Adriana live in Kingwood, Texas with their two children. He is a proud alumnus of Texas Tech University, holding a degree in Telecommunications with a minor in Marketing. Beyond his professional endeavors, Tim and his family are deeply committed to leaving a lasting impact on their community, focusing their philanthropic efforts on children and education. This commitment is reflected not only in his personal life but also in his professional ethos, where he continually strives to create and nurture environments that foster learning and development.

In each of his pursuits, from guiding teams in the corporate world to participating in community initiatives, Tim Lowrey is a figure of inspiration and leadership, continually pushing the boundaries of innovation and excellence in his field. 

Tim Lowrey is truly STREET SMART!!!

Born and raised in Midland, TX, Lori Blong spent her early career as a high school teacher in El Paso, TX.

Transitioning from that and moving back to her hometown, Lori co-founded an oilfield service company, Octane Energy, with her husband, Jared Blong, in 2013. Together they steadily built Octane over the years through the ups and downs of commodity and activity cycles, gleaning knowledge and experience in operations and development from all around the Permian Basin.  In fact, in 2017 and 2018, Octane was recognized by Inc. Magazine as one of the Top 5 Fastest Growing private energy companies in Texas.

For a little over 7 years, Octane provided project management and operational oversight for more than 600 wells a year, for more than 30 distinct operators across the Permian Basin and Oklahoma. Lori’s leadership and disciplined fiscal strategy have been critical to Octane’s continued sustainability in this volatile market. She thrives in problem solving and in identifying the best personnel in drilling, completions and production operations to create solutions and efficiencies.

In June of 2020, Octane Energy successfully sold a portion of their book of business and Lori stepped into the leadership role of Octane Energy, pivoting strongly into the E&P space to purchase a producing asset in Ector County. Now, the Octane Team is beginning horizontal development of the asset, while participating as investors and technical expertise for various other projects in the Permian. She also serves on the board of the Permian Basin Petroleum Association, the board of Habitat for Humanity, as well as on Congressman Pfluger’s Energy Task Force.

Native Midlander, Lori wanted to serve the community that means so much to her and served as a city councilmember, leading Midland through the challenges of COVID. Ultimately this led her to run and win the Mayor’s Seat for her hometown. 

Lori Blong’s story is amazing and she is absolutely STREET SMART.

James Hulse is the Chief Executive Officer of Clean Recompression, a company that is committed to Energy Delivered Cleaner™. Hulse is a respected leader and development contributor in the natural gas industry.

With 14 years of experience in natural gas pipelines, LNG and CNG, James has combined his technical expertise as well as the business knowledge to provide real-world solutions to the natural gas industry.

In his previous role as Director of CenterPoint Energy Mobile Energy Solutions, James took a small subsidiary of a large utility and turned it into a national leader in mobile natural gas services. Those results led to the highly profitable divestment of the company in 2021. James also spent 4 years as the Director of CenterPoint Energy Intrastate Pipelines, the transmission pipeline arm of CenterPoint Energy, which constructs, operates, and maintains final mile natural gas transmission pipelines.

Other positions include the VP of Business Development for Transfuels, Manager of Business Development for Applied LNG, as well as roles in management, sales, and global supply chain. James Hulse is someone who is truly Street Smart.

Born and raised in Midland Texas, Tripp Edwards has been a part of the oil and gas industry forever. After attending Auburn University, where he met his wife Haley, Tripp returned to Midland where he and his wife live now with their two sons, Duke and Hawkins.

Tripp first started working for Wildcat Oil Tools 8 years ago in an Administrative role and transitioned to managing special projects. In 2018 he was promoted to Vice President of Finance  where he was responsible for planning and fundraising initiatives.

In 2021 Tripp was again promoted, this time to Chief Operating Officer and in 2023 he became Wildcat Oil Tools’ Chief Executive Officer and also serves on the Board of the Rawabi / Wildcat JV.

Tripp is born and bred in the oil and gas industry and his career path at Wildcat Oil Tools from entry administrative roles to CEO is truly inspiring and definitely makes him STREET SMART.

Military Brat and Preacher’s Kid to Entrepreneur, Chris Westmoreland has had quite the journey.

A self proclaimed nomad Chris loves the journey and believes it has been critical in his development as a business founder and leader.

As a child he had a love for architecture and was designing homes while in high school. When offered a scholarship in Arizona he decided to pivot and move to Houston, TX where he is still today.

Chris’ story is one of faith, family and helping others.

He is truly STREET SMART!!!

Raised by an Entrepreneur, Austin Blaney (Owner - Paisano Dimensional Control) didn’t begin his journey by wanting to be one.

Instead, Austin wanted to be out in the country working outside and enjoying the natural terrain. Where did that take him.

It took him to the border of South Texas working for the Natural Resource Conservation Service.

Once that ran it course Austin found himself changing industries and on to an offshore platform in Aberdeen, Scotland doing survey work where he excelled. During an inevitable downturn he was caught up in the reduction in force and found himself again on a precipice.

It was then when he was contacted by a company representative asking him to head out to do some work, but he was not with a company. It was at that point he invested in himself and his family and the rest is history.

Austin Blaney is a great man with a great family and an amazing story. He is truly STREET SMART!!!

If you spend any time at all around the Team at Opla Energy you will realize a couple of things. First, they are great people with a great mission, but perhaps the thing that stands out the most is they are different!!!

As part of the modernization of oilfield processes with a push toward technology Opla Energy are trailblazers in the area of Managed Pressure Drilling (MPD) and Pressurized Management Devices (PMDs).

They are also the only company in more than 50 years to win TWO AWARDS at the Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) where they were recognized with the Small Business Award for their Pressurized Management Device (PMD) and their proprietary software OplaSmart.

In this episode we sit down in two 30 minute sessions. First session is with Elvin Mamaadov (Founder & President) and Kieron Gibbs (VP of Business Development). The second session is a conversation with Shawn Cody (VP of Engineering & Operations) and Dave Hoffman (COO).

Opla Energy is truly Street Smart!!!