Power of the Permian

EP 88: Paul O’Connor l Tame Rabbit Media

Paul O’Connor, co-owner of Tame Rabbit Media Partners, joins the podcast to discuss his journey from the oil field to the film industry and the growing opportunities within Texas independent film. In this episode, we explore building production companies, breaking into the business, current film projects, and how emerging technologies like AI are changing the creative landscape. Paul also shares insights on production quality, storytelling, marketing, film distribution, and why authenticity remains one of the most important elements of great filmmaking. Whether you’re interested in media production, entrepreneurship, or the future of creative industries, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to bring stories to life.

EP 87: Jason Burger l Rolfson Oil

Jason Burger, CEO of Rolfson Oil, joins the podcast to share the story behind one of the largest fueling providers serving the oilfield today. Jason discusses his journey from humble beginnings to leading a growing company, the importance of creating value in a merit-based industry, and how strong relationships with customers and employees have helped drive Rolfson’s success. The conversation explores industry consolidation, market cycles, company culture, innovation, and the future of energy services. He also explains Rolfson’s Tri-Fueling technology, the company’s approach to growth, and the values that continue to guide the business as it expands across North America. Learn more about Rolfson Oil at https://rolfsonoil.com

EP 86: Matt Gray l Klein Automation & Electric

Matt Gray, newly appointed President of Klein Automation & Electric, rejoins the show to discuss the company’s continued growth, leadership transition, and the evolving demands of the oil & commercial industries. From promoting talent internally and improving field-to-office communication, to workforce development, AI integration, and building a strong team culture, Matt shares insight into what it takes to scale operations while keeping people at the center of the business. We also discuss growth across Midland/Odessa, challenges facing skilled trades, efficient staffing strategies, and why adaptability will continue to shape the future of the industry.

EP 85: Beth Hutson l Elevated Content

Beth Hutson, founder of Elevated Content Co., joins the podcast to discuss the growth of the film industry in Texas, the evolving opportunities being created in Fort Worth, and the importance of storytelling across industries — including oil and gas. In this episode, we explore Beth’s journey from publicist to producer, her experience creating marketing content for oil and gas companies, and how local partnerships and education programs are helping develop the next generation of talent. We also discuss what it takes to move from the classroom onto real production sets, along with collaboration, workforce development, leadership, and the realities of building a career in demanding industries. The conversation touches on challenges and opportunities for women in male-dominated spaces, balancing creativity and business, protecting mental health, setting boundaries, and building a sustainable career while navigating high-pressure environments.

EP 84: Jeff Vaughan l Hill College

Jeff Vaughan, Director of the Truck Driving Academy at Hill College, joins the podcast to discuss the college’s growing Heavy Haul Program and the evolving demands of the transportation industry. In this episode, we cover workforce development, hands-on training, safety standards, automation, changing industry expectations, and what it takes to prepare the next generation for careers in heavy haul and trucking operations. Jeff also shares how Hill College built its reputation in the space, the importance of experienced instructors, and why industry involvement plays a major role in keeping training programs aligned with real-world needs. Learn more at hillcollege.edu