The Crude Truth

Kasey Cox on OCTG, Energy Supply Chains and What’s Changing in Oilfield Tubulars NAPE 2026

Live from NAPE 2026, The Crude Truth welcomes Kasey Cox of Metal One America for a conversation on OCTG connections, supply chain shifts, deeper wells, and where drilling technology is headed in 2026. Kasey shares what operators are asking for today, how tariffs and commodity pricing are affecting steel markets, and why service companies are watching geothermal and lithium extraction as emerging opportunities. 1. Metal One America & OCTG Connections Casey Cox explains his role at Metal One America, a Japanese-owned company specializing in Oil Country Tubular Goods (OCTG) connections: They provide threaded, coupled, and flush connections for various well applications (intermediate, production casing, etc.) They sell intellectual property to distributors and licensees across the country who thread and couple the connections The company ensures wells don't fail through quality connection products Recently launched a new wedge connection product that increases torque capacity to 45,000 pounds, addressing deeper and more demanding wells 2. Current Industry Landscape & Market Challenges Casey discusses the unpredictable nature of the current market: Inconsistency: Every week brings something different that changes the industry Tariffs & Commodity Rates: Steel tariffs and commodity pricing significantly affect operations and pricing Mergers & Acquisitions: These deals can instantly change client relationships—a company can be a client one day and disappear the next after being acquired Constant Adaptation: These changes keep service companies "on their toes" 3. Diversification into Alternative Energy Sources Casey highlights an important strategic shift: Oil and gas will never go away, but companies are branching into geothermal and lithium extraction Service companies are exploring how to apply their existing technology and expertise to new energy sources The key differentiator is people and knowledge—understanding how to transfer industry expertise to emerging energy sectors This helps mitigate the natural ebbs and flows of the traditional oil and gas market 4. Well Technology Evolution Casey emphasizes the changing demands on equipment: Wells are going deeper, longer, and faster Companies are pushing technological limits New products like the wedge connection are designed to handle increased torque levels (45,000 pounds) Growing demand for gas-tight connections due to increased activity in the Haynesville, Marcellus, and Utica shale plays 5. Sales Approach & Problem-Solving Casey discusses his sales philosophy: He uses a consultative approach—asking questions to understand client needs rather than just pitching products He describes it as the classic "sell me this pencil" approach: ask questions first, then provide solutions He acknowledges that engineers can be difficult to get to open up but are essential to understanding technical requirements His outgoing personality helps him find "that one little niche" to break through and solve problems collaboratively 6. Professional Background & Career Path Casey shares his 20-year journey in the industry: Started in production (pipe, valves, and fittings for ~5 years) Moved to consulting, where he did rig calls regularly Now at Metal One America for about a year, focusing on drilling and connections Upcoming trip to Midland with his manager and Japanese director to visit rigs and understand client needs firsthand Self-described as a college dropout who relies on asking questions and learning from engineers 7. Industry Culture & Networking The conversation emphasizes the personal side of business: 8. Contact & Engagement Casey provides multiple ways to connect: LinkedIn: His preferred method for professional outreach Website: mo-tc.com for information on Metal One's connections Email: kckasey.cox@mtlo.com LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kasey-cox-50b29638/ Check out LFS Chemistry Sponsor of the Crude Truth here: https://lfschemistry.com/ [https://lfschemistry.com/] Follow Rey on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reytrevinoiii/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/reytrevinoiii/] Also, Pecos Operating Website: https://pecosoperating.com/ [https://pecosoperating.com/] Also, the great Production team at Real News Public Relations https://www.realnewspr.com/ [https://www.realnewspr.com/]

Inside NAPE 2026 Where Oil and Gas Deals REALLY Happen Brent Franklin

Live from NAEP Expo 2026, Brent Franklin (CEO of Rise Capital) breaks down how deals, money, and opportunity collide in the oil & gas industry. From investing strategies to building relationships that change everything—this is where business gets done. Connect with Brent Franklin on his LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brent-franklin-606294193/ If you're serious about energy, investing, or scaling your network… YOU need to hear this. Main Topics 1. NAEP Expo 2026 Overview The episode is recorded live at the NAEP (North American Energy Professionals) Expo 2026, highlighting it as a major networking event where "deals happen." The host emphasizes the event's growth and recovery post-COVID, with increased business activity and deal-making opportunities. 2. Rise Capital and Investment Opportunities Brent Franklin, President and CEO of Rise Capital, discusses his company's core business model: Private capital management connecting investors with opportunities in oil & gas, real estate, and alternatives A Reg D offering platform where investors can review and select specific projects An online portal allowing diversified investment without requiring day-to-day management 3. Oil & Gas Investment Structures The conversation delves into different investment approaches: Working Interest: Direct ownership with unlimited liability but significant tax benefits PDP (Proved Developed Producing) assets: Lower-risk investments in already-producing wells Tax deductions: IDC (Intangible Drilling Costs) and TDC (Tangible Drilling Costs) explained as key benefits under IRS code Section 469 4. Tax Benefits in Oil & Gas vs. Real Estate A key distinction is made: oil & gas investments offer active tax deductions without requiring material participation (unlike real estate's 500-700 hour requirement), making them more attractive for passive investors seeking tax elimination rather than deferment. 5. Rise Energy Group - Vertical Integration Strategy Brent explains his parent company's approach to consolidating smaller service businesses: Rolling up mom-and-pop service companies (drilling, well service, water transfer, wireline) Providing liquidity to companies with bad debt and high overhead Creating a debt-free, vertically integrated operation to reduce costs and improve efficiency 6. Market Challenges & Economics Discussion of current oil & gas market conditions: Low commodity prices ($60 oil, $3 gas) making projects less economical Rig count decline (from thousands 20 years ago to ~300 today) Break-even economics at $60/barrel, making cost reduction critical Focus on shale production over exploration due to higher success rates 7. Investment Philosophy & Risk Mitigation Key principles emphasized: Diversification across multiple projects and asset classes Importance of operator quality and experience Mitigating risk rather than avoiding loss Importance of "skin in the game" for all parties involved Production and cash flow prioritized over tax deductions alone 8. Networking & Relationship Building The value of attending industry events like NAEP for: Meeting high-net-worth individuals and decision-makers Finding partnership opportunities Building relationships that lead to business deals Surrounding yourself with quality people in the industry This episode essentially serves as a deep dive into modern oil & gas investment strategies, emphasizing the importance of professional guidance, proper tax structuring, and strategic partnerships in the energy sector. Check out LFS Chemistry Sponsor of the Crude Truth here: https://lfschemistry.com/ Follow Rey on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reytrevinoiii/ Also, Pecos Operating Website: https://pecosoperating.com/ Also, the great Production team at Real News Public Relations https://www.realnewspr.com/ Check out LFS Chemistry Sponsor of the Crude Truth here: https://lfschemistry.com/ [https://lfschemistry.com/] Follow Rey on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reytrevinoiii/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/reytrevinoiii/] Also, Pecos Operating Website: https://pecosoperating.com/ [https://pecosoperating.com/] Also, the great Production team at Real News Public Relations https://www.realnewspr.com/ [https://www.realnewspr.com/]

How Oil & Gas Companies Use Data to Win with W Energy at NAPE 2026

Live from NAPE 2026, this episode of The Crude Truth dives into the software and data side of the oil & gas industry with W Energy. Joined by Joe Fuda, Gary Napotnik, and Michael Tanner, we break down how modern energy companies are using cloud-based software, data analytics, and AI to streamline operations from field to finance. Check out W Energy https://wenergysoftware.com/ [https://wenergysoftware.com/] Connect with Joe on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-fuda-420392127/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-fuda-420392127/] Connect with Gary on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/m-surge/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/m-surge/] 1. Oil & Gas Industry Overview & History The episode opens with a historical perspective on the oil industry, referencing the 1901 Spindletop discovery in Texas and how it shaped America's development. The hosts emphasize that despite alternative energy sources (wind, solar, electric), America still fundamentally depends on oil and the entrepreneurs who produce it. 2. W Energy Software Platform & Solutions The core focus is on W Energy, a cloud-based software company providing integrated solutions for oil and gas operations. Key features discussed include: Field-to-Finance integration: Connecting field operations, ticketing, production management, and accounting under one platform Data View: An analytics-ready tool that allows non-technical users to visualize and understand business data without needing data engineering expertise APIs and data accessibility: Balancing technical data access with user-friendly interfaces 3. Operational Efficiency & Workflow Streamlining The speakers emphasize how modern software should: Reduce manual efforts and repetitive tasks Empower teams to focus on strategic analysis rather than report generation Adapt to evolving business needs as companies scale Allow executives to understand operations without needing to know "how the sausage is made" 4. AI Integration & Future Technology A significant discussion centers on: The emerging role of AI in oil and gas operations How AI can rapidly deploy use cases and provide real-time insights The potential for AI to transform decision-making and data consumption across the industry W Energy's AI roadmap for 2026 5. Data Security & Privacy Concerns An important theme is the tension between AI adoption and data protection: Concerns about proprietary data (P&Ls, completion techniques, surfactant formulas) being exposed The need for private cloud or on-premises solutions rather than public cloud services Information security challenges in the age of AI The importance of keeping data "under one roof" to prevent competitive leakage 6. Industry Evolution & KPI Management The speakers discuss how: Metrics and KPIs change as companies scale (from 300 BOE/day to 100,000+ BOE/day operations) Software must be flexible enough to adapt to different business models and evolving priorities The industry is becoming more efficient (producing 14+ million barrels/day with fewer rigs) 7. NAPE 2026 Conference Context The episode is recorded at the NAPE (North American Petroleum Expo) 2026, highlighting: Industry networking and deal-making opportunities Emerging technologies and trends being showcased The role of digital currencies and AI in shaping the future of the industry The overall theme is how integrated software platforms with AI capabilities are transforming oil and gas operations by making data more accessible, workflows more efficient, and decision-making more strategic—while maintaining critical data security. Check out LFS Chemistry Sponsor of the Crude Truth here: https://lfschemistry.com/ [https://lfschemistry.com/] Follow Rey on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reytrevinoiii/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/reytrevinoiii/] Also, Pecos Operating Website: https://pecosoperating.com/ [https://pecosoperating.com/] Also, the great Production team at Real News Public Relations https://www.realnewspr.com/ [https://www.realnewspr.com/]

Crude Oil Needs to Run through TEXAS

Crude Oil Needs to Run Through Texas. Railroad Commissioner Jim Wright breaks down why Texas remains the backbone of American energy—and where the industry is headed next. Check out the Texas Railroad Commission Site: https://www.rrc.state.tx.us/about-us/commissioners/jim-wright/ [https://www.rrc.state.tx.us/about-us/commissioners/jim-wright/] Key Points: • Texas produces ~43% of U.S. crude oil • Balancing environmental responsibility with economic growth • The Railroad Commission’s critical role in regulation • Why global demand is shifting toward Texas for stability • The future of produced water and new energy tech (like lithium & geothermal) • Challenges and opportunities with legacy wells • How oil & gas fuels Texas’ economy and state surplus 1. The Railroad Commission of Texas & Its Role The episode centers on an interview with Jim Wright, the incumbent Railroad Commissioner. The discussion emphasizes that the Railroad Commission regulates the oil and gas industry in Texas, manages environmental standards, and is crucial to the state's $20+ billion annual surplus. Wright stresses that despite its outdated name (dating back to transportation regulation), the commission plays a vital role in balancing environmental responsibility with economic success. 2. Texas Oil & Gas Production & Economic Impact The conversation highlights Texas's dominance in energy production: Texas produces 43% of U.S. crude oil and roughly 30% of natural gas Current production is 5.5 million barrels per day The industry generated $27 billion in state taxes last year Oil and gas employ over 500,000 people directly and support 2 million more jobs indirectly 3. The Shale Revolution & Technological Innovation Wright discusses how horizontal drilling and fracking technology transformed the industry, enabling extraction from tight formations. He emphasizes that technology changes constantly and regulations must adapt accordingly. Examples include auto-swabbing systems that revive dormant wells and new applications like lithium extraction and geothermal energy from legacy wells. 4. Produced Water Management & Environmental Concerns A significant portion focuses on produced water—the byproduct of oil extraction (approximately 5 barrels of water per barrel of oil). Key points include: Earthquake risks from deep injection of produced water Drought conditions in West Texas creating water scarcity Pilot programs treating produced water for agricultural use (wheat, alfalfa) Potential for extracting valuable minerals like uranium from produced water 5. Senate Bill 1150 & Legacy Well Regulations The discussion covers upcoming regulations requiring old wells to be plugged or brought online by September 2027. Wright advocates for flexibility, noting that legacy wells may have future value through emerging technologies (lithium, geothermal) and shouldn't be permanently abandoned without exploring these opportunities. 6. Market Stability & Global Energy Demand Wright emphasizes that international demand for U.S. oil is surging due to America's political and economic stability. He advocates for marketing Texas oil globally and mentions increased tanker activity in the Gulf of Mexico, positioning Texas as a reliable energy source compared to unstable international alternatives. 7. Election & Public Education The episode promotes Wright's candidacy for re-election (runoff on May 26th) and stresses the need for voter education about the Railroad Commission's importance. Wright argues that many voters don't understand what the commission does, making it vulnerable to candidates without relevant experience. 8. Balancing Environmental & Economic Responsibility A recurring theme is the need to maintain both environmental stewardship and economic growth—treating this as a "win-win" rather than a trade-off. Check out LFS Chemistry Sponsor of the Crude Truth here: https://lfschemistry.com/ [https://lfschemistry.com/] Follow Rey on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reytrevinoiii/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/reytrevinoiii/] Also, Pecos Operating Website: https://pecosoperating.com/ [https://pecosoperating.com/] Also, the great Production team at Real News Public Relations https://www.realnewspr.com/ [https://www.realnewspr.com/]

Leigh Haas on Land Services, Energy Infrastructure & Data Center Growth | NAPE 2026

In this episode of The Crude Truth, recorded live at NAPE 2026, Rey Trevino sits down with Leigh Haas, founder of Mockingbird Land Services, to discuss entrepreneurship, land rights, energy infrastructure, and the growing demand driven by AI and data centers. Working on - - Leigh shares how her background in politics, pipeline right-of-way, permitting, and safety training came together to launch her own company and why land services are becoming increasingly important across the Gulf South and beyond. Connect with Leigh on her LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leigh-haas-5b911473/ 1. Oil & Gas Industry Overview The episode opens with historical context about Texas oil production starting at Spindletop Hill in 1901, establishing that America's dependence on oil remains strong despite alternative energy sources. The conversation emphasizes that crude oil knowledge is essential for U.S. independence. 2. Lee Haas's New Venture: Mockingbird Land Services Lee Haas, the guest, recently launched his own land company about 8 months ago (3 weeks after NAPE). This is a first-year startup focused on providing comprehensive services in the energy sector. 3. Convergence of Expertise Lee brings a unique combination of backgrounds: Politics → Oil & Gas → Energy Infrastructure Extensive experience with natural gas pipelines, solar, wind, and other energy sources Expertise in right-of-way acquisitions, lease negotiations, title research, and safety training 4. Mockingbird's Service Offerings The company operates as a "one-stop shop" providing: Regulatory review and permitting assistance Legislative support Right-of-way acquisition and negotiation Safety training for pipeline operations 5. Geographic Focus & Expansion Primary focus: Gulf South region (Mississippi, Louisiana, Texas) Lee is a seventh-generation Mississippian with historical family ties to the state Company has worked in 40 states and is willing to expand nationally 6. Key Client Markets Data Centers (8 being built in Mississippi alone) Electric utility companies Transmission line projects Natural gas pipeline infrastructure 7. Legislative & Regulatory Challenges A major focus is expedited permitting processes. Despite deregulation efforts, bureaucratic delays persist, particularly in Mississippi where state officials may lack awareness of how the permitting process works. 8. AI & Technology in the Industry Lee discusses AI's role in the right-of-way industry: AI won't replace landmen in negotiations AI can improve title accuracy (which he argues is more critical than engineering mishaps) Lee humorously notes AI makes him "procrastinate efficiently" 9. Personal Interests: Elvis Presley A lighter segment where Lee reveals his passion for Elvis Presley, discussing upcoming documentaries and his status as a "seventh-generation Mississippian" and "original Mississippi rule breaker" connection to Elvis's hometown of Tupelo. 10. Business Networking & Growth The episode emphasizes NAPE as a networking platform and Lee's multi-podcast appearance strategy to build brand awareness for Mockingbird Land Services. Overall Theme: The episode showcases how specialized expertise in energy infrastructure, combined with regulatory knowledge and land acquisition skills, creates business opportunities in America's ongoing energy development. Check out LFS Chemistry Sponsor of the Crude Truth here: https://lfschemistry.com/ Follow Rey on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reytrevinoiii/ Also, Pecos Operating Website: https://pecosoperating.com/ Also, the great Production team at Real News Public Relations https://www.realnewspr.com/