Posted on November 18, 2025 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…
Leadership and Business
Running an oil and gas company is as much about people and contracts as it is about wells. Erin Palacio, COO of Midwest Compressor Systems, talks about moving from healthcare and government into the industry, and why technical skills can be taught while soft skills are the hard part. Shaun Schottmiller draws on his career in oil and gas law to argue that understanding the underlying business matters more than knowing the statute, since title work and contracts are only as good as the relationships behind them. Karl Hroza, after thirty years managing global mega projects in oil, gas and mining, makes the case that trust is the real infrastructure of construction success, especially now that remote work has removed the water cooler conversations that used to build it. Jason LeGrande explains why he pushed for a dedicated communications director to close the gap between sales and operations. John Fernando and Erica Honeycut also appear here for the business decisions — tax structuring, versatility, land and software strategy — behind their career stories. These episodes are for anyone who has to run the business side of energy, not just work in it.
9 episodes on leadership and business
The Power of Relationships in Oil & Gas Law
Posted on July 7, 2026 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 pr…
The Hidden Power of Trust in Construction Success
Posted on June 23, 2026 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, tr…
The Sales-Operations Connection
Posted on November 18, 2025 In this conversation, Jason LeGrande discusses the importance of communication in operations, particularly emphasizing the need for a communications director to streamline proce…
From Homeless to CEO: John Fernando's Inspiring Journey
Posted on July 30, 2026 John Fernando shares his remarkable journey from homelessness and addiction to building a successful mineral and land business, emphasizing integrity, innovation, and strategic…
From Entry-Level to Industry Leader: Erica Honeycut's Journey
Posted on July 2, 2026 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 importa…
From Oil Fields to Farmers Markets: Michael Waid's Journey
Posted on January 29, 2026 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.…
From Alaska to Industry Leader: Dan Higgs' Journey
Posted on June 3, 2026 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 mentor…
The Power of Persistence in Career Growth
Posted on August 13, 2026 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…