https://compressortalk.com/ Under Pressure: Compressor Talk is the oil and gas podcast hosted by David Abshire, CEO of Midwest Compressor Systems. Real conversations with the operators, engineers and executives moving the energy industry forward. en-us © 2026 Under Pressure: Compressor Talk Mon, 28 Sep 2026 03:55:02 GMT https://compressortalk.com/podcast/exploring-the-business-of-energy-with-brian-horn/ https://compressortalk.com/podcast/exploring-the-business-of-energy-with-brian-horn/ Thu, 24 Sep 2026 05:00:00 GMT David Abshire In this episode, Brian Horn shares insights from his diverse career in the energy industry, emphasizing the importance of relationships, portfolio exploration, and the energy economy. He discusses the value of asking the right questions, the energy transition, and mentoring the next generation of geoscientists.  key  topics The importance of relationships and networks in the energy industry The portfolio approach to exploration and risk management The significance of asking the right q https://compressortalk.com/podcast/from-academia-to-industry-a-shift-in-perspective/ https://compressortalk.com/podcast/from-academia-to-industry-a-shift-in-perspective/ Thu, 17 Sep 2026 05:00:00 GMT David Abshire In this episode, Dr. Shahrukh Irani shares his unconventional insights on manufacturing, lean principles, AI, and the importance of experiential knowledge in industry. Discover why industry experience matters and how to adapt lean for high-mix, low-volume environments.  key  topics The importance of hands-on industry experience for engineers Limitations of applying Toyota's production system universally Adapting lean principles for job shops and high-mix environments The role and limit https://compressortalk.com/podcast/navigating-lifes-transitions-from-military-to-offshore-drilling/ https://compressortalk.com/podcast/navigating-lifes-transitions-from-military-to-offshore-drilling/ Thu, 10 Sep 2026 05:00:00 GMT David Abshire In this episode, Nick Rose shares his journey from army infantry to offshore drilling, emphasizing the importance of persistence, mentorship, and discipline. He discusses technological innovations in the oil industry, safety culture, and lessons learned across industries. key  topics Nick Rose's military background and transition to oil and gas The importance of persistence in career advancement Mentorship's role in professional growth Development of real-time subsea monitoring systems Misc https://compressortalk.com/podcast/navigating-energy-challenges-insights-from-rick-westerdale/ https://compressortalk.com/podcast/navigating-energy-challenges-insights-from-rick-westerdale/ Thu, 03 Sep 2026 10:00:00 GMT David Abshire Exploring the intersections of industry, government, and geopolitics. Rick Westerdale has had a multifaceted career that spans the corporate world, government service, and entrepreneurial ventures. His journey highlights the power of curiosity and adaptability in the face of new challenges. ## A Journey Driven by Curiosity Rick reflects on his career, describing himself as a "simple country boy from Kentucky" who has been fortunate to pursue diverse opportunities. His natural curiosity has been https://compressortalk.com/podcast/the-future-of-power-generation-and-data-centers/ https://compressortalk.com/podcast/the-future-of-power-generation-and-data-centers/ Thu, 20 Aug 2026 05:00:00 GMT David Abshire In this episode, Josh Hoeft shares insights from his diverse career in the energy industry, the impact of AI and cloud computing on power generation, and the importance of faster decision-making in project execution.  Key  Topics Diverse career paths in energy industry Impact of AI and cloud computing on power projects Modular power plant design for data centers Differences in decision-making at large vs. small companies Attracting the next generation to field operations The energy foo https://compressortalk.com/podcast/the-power-of-persistence-in-career-growth/ https://compressortalk.com/podcast/the-power-of-persistence-in-career-growth/ Thu, 13 Aug 2026 05:00:00 GMT David Abshire In this episode, Tony Otsk shares her unconventional career journey from fitness and art to leadership in the energy sector. She discusses transferable skills, the importance of persistence, and how to develop effective leadership and mentorship practices. Key  Topics Transferable skills across industries The importance of persistence and timing Building relationships and trust in leadership Scalable leadership development programs The value of curiosity and asking questions Women’s leaders https://compressortalk.com/podcast/the-future-of-energy-insights-from-a-45-year-industry-veteran/ https://compressortalk.com/podcast/the-future-of-energy-insights-from-a-45-year-industry-veteran/ Thu, 06 Aug 2026 05:00:00 GMT David Abshire In this episode, Doug Sandridge shares insights from his 45+ years in the energy industry, covering oil, gas, and nuclear energy, and discusses the importance of education, regulation, and diversification for a sustainable energy future. Key  Topics Energy industry career longevity Importance of energy education for policy Nuclear energy benefits and misconceptions Regulatory and legal challenges in energy projects Environmental stewardship in oil and gas Energy diversification and sustaina https://compressortalk.com/podcast/from-homeless-to-ceo-john-fernandos-inspiring-journey/ https://compressortalk.com/podcast/from-homeless-to-ceo-john-fernandos-inspiring-journey/ Thu, 30 Jul 2026 05:00:00 GMT David Abshire John Fernando shares his remarkable journey from homelessness and addiction to building a successful mineral and land business, emphasizing integrity, innovation, and strategic decision-making. Discover how faith, transparency, and smart partnerships can transform your entrepreneurial path.  key  topics John Fernando's entrepreneurial journey The importance of integrity and transparency Innovative approaches in land services Strategic decision-making in business growth Energy sector op https://compressortalk.com/podcast/how-experience-shapes-success-in-oil-gas/ https://compressortalk.com/podcast/how-experience-shapes-success-in-oil-gas/ Thu, 23 Jul 2026 10:00:00 GMT David Abshire In this episode, Jordan Ball shares his journey into the oil and gas industry, insights on refinery operations, and the importance of innovation and sustainability in energy. Discover how experience, curiosity, and decision-making shape success in this complex field. Key  Topics Journey into oil and gas industry Refinery operations and maintenance Sustainability and innovation in energy Use of LP models for refinery optimization Decision-making and overcoming analysis paralysis https://compressortalk.com/podcast/the-power-of-relationships-in-oil-gas-law/ https://compressortalk.com/podcast/the-power-of-relationships-in-oil-gas-law/ Tue, 07 Jul 2026 20:00:00 GMT David Abshire In this episode, Shaun Schottmiller shares insights from his extensive career in oil and gas law, emphasizing the importance of understanding the business, relationships, and practical decision-making in the industry. Topics we discuss The complexity of oil and gas law and its interdisciplinary nature Lessons learned from working inside a rapidly expanding operator The importance of understanding geology, engineering, and operations for attorneys The significance of title work and ownership clar https://compressortalk.com/podcast/from-entry-level-to-industry-leader-erica-honeycuts-journey/ https://compressortalk.com/podcast/from-entry-level-to-industry-leader-erica-honeycuts-journey/ Thu, 02 Jul 2026 16:00:00 GMT David Abshire In this episode, Erica Honeycut shares her inspiring journey from entry-level roles to leading land and software solutions in the oil and gas industry. She discusses the importance of versatility, data integrity, and industry innovation, offering valuable insights for professionals at all levels.  key  topics Career growth through versatility and learning Importance of land administration in oil and gas Data management and its impact on industry operations Industry innovation and softw https://compressortalk.com/podcast/the-hidden-power-of-trust-in-construction-success/ https://compressortalk.com/podcast/the-hidden-power-of-trust-in-construction-success/ Tue, 23 Jun 2026 10:00:00 GMT David Abshire In this episode, Karl Hroza shares insights from his 30-year career managing global mega projects in oil, gas, and mining industries. We discuss the importance of leadership, trust, and adaptability in project success, along with lessons for young professionals entering the industry.  key  topics The importance of early career flexibility and willingness to travel How mega projects take 10-12 years to develop and the front-end work involved The impact of sustainable development and com https://compressortalk.com/podcast/revolutionizing-oil-gas-the-digital-well-program-by-halliburton/ https://compressortalk.com/podcast/revolutionizing-oil-gas-the-digital-well-program-by-halliburton/ Fri, 12 Jun 2026 16:00:00 GMT David Abshire In this insightful interview, Aman Srivastava shares his journey from mechanical engineering to leading digital innovation in the oil and gas industry. Discover how his team is developing cloud-based solutions to standardize and optimize well planning globally, and the importance of field experience and AI in shaping the future of energy.  key  topics: Digital Well Program: a cloud-based solution for well planning Standardization in oil and gas operations The role of AI and data in opt https://compressortalk.com/podcast/from-heat-exchangers-to-military-vehicles-heinrich-bartels-engineering-journey/ https://compressortalk.com/podcast/from-heat-exchangers-to-military-vehicles-heinrich-bartels-engineering-journey/ Wed, 10 Jun 2026 13:00:00 GMT David Abshire In this interview, Heinrich Bartels shares his diverse engineering career, insights on cost reduction, and the importance of collaboration across teams. Discover how his experiences in heat exchangers, military vehicles, and oil and gas have shaped his approach to engineering and cost management.  key  topics Engineering career evolution Cost reduction strategies Team collaboration and communication https://compressortalk.com/podcast/from-alaska-to-industry-leader-dan-higgs-journey/ https://compressortalk.com/podcast/from-alaska-to-industry-leader-dan-higgs-journey/ Wed, 03 Jun 2026 19:00:00 GMT David Abshire In this episode, Dan Higgs shares his journey from Alaska oil field helper to industry leader, discussing safety evolution, industry misconceptions, and the importance of mentorship. Gain insights into industry culture, safety practices, and the future of energy.  key  topics Industry safety evolution since 2005 The importance of mentorship in oil and gas Differences between Alaska and Appalachian oil fields Impact of industry misconceptions on community perception The role of field ex https://compressortalk.com/podcast/innovating-for-a-sustainable-future-in-energy/ https://compressortalk.com/podcast/innovating-for-a-sustainable-future-in-energy/ Thu, 23 Apr 2026 21:00:00 GMT David Abshire In this insightful interview, Paul Espenan shares his extensive experience in the energy industry, emphasizing the importance of leadership, innovation, and long-term thinking in environmental and operational excellence. Discover how his career journey, technological advancements, and visionary initiatives are shaping a sustainable future. https://compressortalk.com/podcast/transforming-energy-infrastructure-insights-from-anthony-herman/ https://compressortalk.com/podcast/transforming-energy-infrastructure-insights-from-anthony-herman/ Tue, 31 Mar 2026 19:00:00 GMT David Abshire Learn about the pivotal role of energy infrastructure and the challenges it faces, as discussed by Anthony Herman from Rosen North America. In today’s fast-paced world, the energy infrastructure often goes unnoticed, yet it serves as the lifeblood of our daily activities. When I sat down with Anthony Herman, the Director of Business Development for Digital Solutions at Rosen North America, he shed light on the complexities of this industry and the pivotal role it plays. Here’s what every energy https://compressortalk.com/podcast/pioneering-the-barnett-shell-a-legacy-of-innovation/ https://compressortalk.com/podcast/pioneering-the-barnett-shell-a-legacy-of-innovation/ Thu, 12 Feb 2026 06:00:00 GMT David Abshire In this episode of the Under Pressure podcast, Clay O'Neil shares his extensive journey in the oil and gas industry, detailing his transition from a ranch manager's son to a pioneer in horizontal drilling. He discusses the evolution of engineering roles, the challenges faced in operations, and the misconceptions surrounding the industry. Clay emphasizes the importance of a strong work ethic for young engineers and reflects on the differences between offshore and onshore operations. He also expre https://compressortalk.com/podcast/journey-into-the-oil-and-gas-industry/ https://compressortalk.com/podcast/journey-into-the-oil-and-gas-industry/ Thu, 05 Feb 2026 06:00:00 GMT David Abshire In this episode of the Under Pressure Podcast, David Abshire interviews Jeff Wells, a reservoir engineer with a background in petroleum engineering from Texas A&M. Jeff shares his journey into the oil and gas industry, discussing his career path, current role, and the challenges he faces in a small private company. The conversation highlights the importance of technology and communication in the industry, as well as common misconceptions about reservoir engineering. Jeff offers valuable advice f https://compressortalk.com/podcast/navigating-the-oil-and-gas-landscape-with-marcus-jones/ https://compressortalk.com/podcast/navigating-the-oil-and-gas-landscape-with-marcus-jones/ Thu, 29 Jan 2026 18:00:00 GMT David Abshire In this episode of Under Pressure, host David Abshire speaks with Marcus Jones, an experienced professional in the oil and gas industry. Marcus shares his journey from a small town in Oklahoma to becoming an entrepreneur in the oil sector. He discusses the challenges and opportunities he has encountered, including the importance of chemistry in enhancing oil recovery, the risks associated with the industry, and the need for effective communication and networking. The conversation also touches on https://compressortalk.com/podcast/from-oil-fields-to-farmers-markets-michael-waids-journey/ https://compressortalk.com/podcast/from-oil-fields-to-farmers-markets-michael-waids-journey/ Thu, 29 Jan 2026 11:00:00 GMT David Abshire In this episode, David Abshire interviews Michael Waid, who shares his journey from a blue-collar upbringing in South Texas to becoming a key player in the oil and gas industry. Michael discusses his current ventures, including 18G Energy and a successful side business, Small Batch Texas. He addresses common misconceptions about the oil and gas sector, emphasizing the challenges and realities of the industry. Michael highlights the importance of networking, the need for better data and predictiv https://compressortalk.com/podcast/a-day-in-the-life-of-a-production-engineer/ https://compressortalk.com/podcast/a-day-in-the-life-of-a-production-engineer/ Fri, 23 Jan 2026 20:00:00 GMT David Abshire Summary In this episode of the Under Pressure Podcast, host David Abshire speaks with Cameron Bayne, a production engineer in California's oil industry. Cameron shares his journey into petroleum engineering, detailing his education at the Colorado School of Mines and the challenges he faced in the industry after graduation. He discusses his current role, responsibilities, and the unique challenges of working in a small operator environment, particularly in California's regulatory landscape. The https://compressortalk.com/podcast/challenging-the-myths-of-the-oil-and-gas-industry/ https://compressortalk.com/podcast/challenging-the-myths-of-the-oil-and-gas-industry/ Thu, 22 Jan 2026 17:00:00 GMT David Abshire In this episode of Compressor Talk, David Abshire interviews Aidan Larrabee, a senior petroleum engineering student at Texas A&M. Aidan shares his journey from Maine to Texas, discussing how he discovered his passion for petroleum engineering through podcasts and the importance of real-world experience. He challenges common misconceptions about the oil and gas industry, emphasizing its ongoing relevance and impact. Aidan highlights the value of his education at Texas A&M, his involvement in the https://compressortalk.com/podcast/the-sales-operations-connection/ https://compressortalk.com/podcast/the-sales-operations-connection/ Tue, 18 Nov 2025 21:00:00 GMT David Abshire In this conversation, Jason LeGrande discusses the importance of communication in operations, particularly emphasizing the need for a communications director to streamline processes. He highlights the challenges faced by sales teams in maintaining focus while juggling operational requests, underscoring the need for better information flow between sales and operations. https://compressortalk.com/podcast/navigating-leadership-in-oil-and-gas/ https://compressortalk.com/podcast/navigating-leadership-in-oil-and-gas/ Tue, 18 Nov 2025 21:00:00 GMT David Abshire In this conversation, David Abshire interviews COO Erin Palacio of Midwest Compressor, discussing her transition from healthcare and government to the oil and gas industry. They explore the challenges of managing diverse teams, the importance of balancing technology with human connection, and the initiatives taken to enhance employee engagement and company culture. Erin shares insights on navigating industry challenges, innovative partnerships for growth, and the future focus on automation and c