Crisis, CO₂, and Carl Icahn: How Vicki Hollub Led Oxy Through the Storm

"What do you do when oil prices crash, a pandemic hits, and your boardroom turns into a battlefield?" In this gripping continuation of Kent Hance's conversation with Vicki Hollub, CEO of Occidental Petroleum, listeners are taken behind the scenes of one of the most turbulent chapters in energy industry history. From navigating the high-stakes Anadarko acquisition to surviving a price war and global pandemic, Hollub shares how she led with resilience, strategy, and heart. This episode dives deep into: The moment Oxy's stock plummeted and how Hollub responded within hours. The emotional toll of cutting dividends and the tough calls that followed. Boardroom drama with Carl Icahn, and the importance of knowing who's truly on your team. Her candid conversations with Warren Buffett, and what she's learned from one of the world's greatest investors. Oxy's bold climate strategy, including the groundbreaking direct air capture technology and the acquisition of Carbon Engineering. Why leadership means putting people first, even when the stakes are high. With powerful reflections like, "You've got to be there when your employees need you the most," and "Crises can either break you or bring you closer," this episode is a masterclass in leadership under pressure. Whether you're in business, energy, or just love a good story of grit and innovation, this episode will leave you inspired and informed. 📢 Call to Action: If this episode moved you, subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share it with someone who values strong leadership and bold ideas. Follow us on Instagram @beststorytellerpodcast — we love hearing from you!