Oil and Gas Upstream

Sponsored by IFS – Purpose-built industrial AI DESCRIPTIONIn this insightful interview, former Senator Mary Landrieu (D-LA) discusses with Host, Elena Melchert, the vital role of natural gas in the energy transition, Louisiana’s energy industry, and the importance of a balanced approach to energy policy. She shares her career journey, the significance of energy for global […]

Sponsored by IFS – Purpose-built industrial AI DESCRIPTIONIn this episode, Host, Elena Melchert, and Dr. Christopher Liner, Science Advisor for RAM Geothermal, discuss innovative geothermal technologies, including new patents that could revolutionize geothermal energy extraction. He shares insights from his extensive industry background, academic research, and recent patents, highlighting how these advancements can accelerate the […]

Sponsored by IFS – Purpose-built industrial AI In this episode, Host, Elena Melchert interviews tax lawyer Elizabeth McGinley about the intricacies of CCUS, tax credits like 45Q and 45Z, and the evolving landscape of carbon capture, utilization, and storage industry. They explore the technical, legal, and financial aspects of CCUS projects, including permitting, contracts, and […]

Sponsored by IFS – Purpose-built industrial AI In this episode, Host, Elena Melchert talks with Chris Treano, Executive Director of Advocacy Group for Partnership to Address Global Emissions (PAGE) about the need for permitting reform to expand American energy infrastructure, how it can alleviate costs for consumers and grow our economy, and the prospects for […]

Sponsored by IFS – Purpose-built industrial AI This episode features Host, Elena Melchert, Don Conkle, Trustee, Marietta College Board of Directors, and Dr. Ben Stuart, Dean, Center for Earth, Energy, and the Environment, discussing the upcoming energy symposium at Marietta College, featuring keynote presentation by Dr. Scott Tinker, panel focusing on energy diversity, speaker on […]

Sponsored by IFS – Purpose-built industrial AI Episode Description In this episode recorded in person at 2026 CERAWeek by S&P Global, Host, Elena Melchert, talks with Herman Nieuwoudt, President, IFS Energy Resources, about what is needed to succeed during times of extreme volatility. The energy industry is experiencing rapid technological change, enabling greater resilience and improved […]

Sponsored by IFS – Purpose-built industrial AI In this episode, Host, Elena Melchert, talks with Karen Olson, President, Olson Turner Enterprises about the history of the HFTC, and provides a complete summary of the Opening Panel Session on the first day of HFTC 2026 sharing key messages she heard from Panelist, Assistant Secretary Kyle Hausveit, […]

Sponsored by IFS – Purpose-built industrial AI In this episode, Elena Melchert interviews Ted Pardee, CRO, Kognitiv Spark, about the transformative potential of augmented reality and AI in the oil and gas industry. They explore various use cases, and how these technologies enhance safety, training, and operational efficiency in remote and challenging environments. https://www.kognitivspark.com/linkedin.com/in/tedpardeeCorporate LinkedIn: […]

Sponsored by IFS – Purpose-built industrial AI In this episode of Oil and Gas Upstream, host Elena Melchert interviews Tyler Rice, Pressure Control Sales Manager at SPM Oil and Gas. Tyler shares his journey into the oil and gas industry, discussing his diverse experiences and the evolution of pressure control technology. The conversation delves into […]

Sponsored by IFS – Purpose-built industrial AI In this episode, Host, Elena Melchert, discusses the evolution of data management in the oil and gas industry with Cindy Sullivan, a Principal Consultant at ORTECHA. They explore the challenges of data quality, the importance of metadata, and the role of AI in data management. The conversation highlights […]

Sponsored by IFS – Purpose-built industrial AI In this episode, Host, Elena Melchert talks with Carlos Granado, Regional Director USA at Computer Modelling Group Ltd (CMG) who shares insights about how deeper understandings about subsurface reservoirs can drive revenue growth. Reservoir and production modeling for oil and gas and related subsurface fields aids precision in […]

Sponsored by IFS – Purpose-built industrial AI In this episode, Host, Elena Melchert, talks with Tom Hansen, Nick Thelin, and Jason Thompson of Emerson’s Paine Brand. They discuss the evolution of transducers, their applications in oil and gas and aerospace, and the engineering challenges faced in design and manufacturing. The conversation highlights the importance of […]

In this episode of Oil and Gas Upstream, host Elena Melchert interviews Lewis Matthews, CEO of Project Gemini. They discuss Matthews’ journey into the oil and gas industry, the importance of data and AI in modeling and decision-making, and how Project Gemini is revolutionizing portfolio optimization through innovative techniques. The conversation highlights the integration of […]

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In this episode, Host, Elena Melchert, talks with David Smith, Vice President, Innovation, Black Pearl, about their innovative technologies such as Beacon and Zephyr.  They discuss David’s diverse background, and insights into hydraulic fracturing, and partnership between company and client in technology development.  The conversation also touches on the philosophy behind the company name “Black […]

In this episode, Host, Elena Melchert talks with Bill Rhea, Pilot Exploration, talks about knowing where to drill thus eliminating dry holes through the use of technology based on sedimentary residual magnetics (SRM) magnetic bright spots (MBS) based on understanding the full magnetic spectrum of the earth especially the Flex Trend in the Gulf of […]

In this episode of Oil and Gas Upstream, host Elena Melchert and Sarah Kern, Director of Strategic Engagement at Energy Innovation Capital discuss Sarah’s career journey from electrical engineering to the drilling industry, her involvement in industry organizations, and the success of the ATCE 2025 conference. The conversation also touches on leadership changes within SPE, […]

In this episode of Oil and Gas Upstream, host Elena Melchert interviews Andy Cordova, president of Lufkin Industries, discussing the evolution of rod lift technology and its significance in the oil and gas industry. They explore Lufkin’s history, the transition from conventional to modern reservoirs, and the challenges faced in managing production from horizontal wells. […]

In this episode of Oil and Gas Upstream, host Elena Melchert talks with Lisa Blankenburg, North American Technical Sales Director at TAQA, about her career journey from nursing to a leading role in oil and gas. They discuss TAQA’s innovative technologies, such as sand screens, production enhancement, and swell plug solutions; used to tackle challenges […]

In this episode of Oil and Gas Upstream, host Elena Melchert speaks with Mahmoud Nasef, Regional Business Development Manager for NOV in Dubai. They discussed Mahmoud’s journey into the oil and gas industry, the role of a regional business development manager, and the innovative Downhole Broadband Solutions (DBS) technology that is transforming drilling operations. The […]

In this episode, Host, Elena Melchert, meets with Dena Wiggins, NGSA. They discuss the role of NGSA in the natural gas industry, the importance of infrastructure and permitting, the critical nature of natural gas storage, and the dynamics of pricing in the market. They also touch on the impact of shale development on energy independence, […]

In this episode of Oil and Gas Upstream, host Elena Melchert speaks with Adam McCullough, Alaska Program Manager at NV5 Geospatial, about the transformative role of geospatial technologies in modern energy projects. From LIDAR and thermal imaging to bathymetric mapping and digital twin systems, Adam explains how these innovations help oil and gas operators make […]

In this episode, Elena Melchert interviews Claudia Molina, President, Seguen Technologies, discussing her extensive background in the oil and gas industry, the importance of data science, and the intersection of technology and human expertise. They explore the concepts of commercial and technical viability, the role of curiosity in career development, and the perception of risk […]

In this episode of Oil and Gas Upstream, host Elena Melchert engages with the Program Co-Chairs of the 2025 URTEC “Unconventional Resources Technology Conference”, discussing the recent evolution of unconventional resources production, the integration of geothermal energy, and the future of the oil and gas industry. The guests share their backgrounds, the significance of URTEC […]

In this episode, Elena Melchert interviews Ram Seetharam, the ROICE Executive Director, at the University of Houston, discussing new life for old energy assets. The conversation covers the potential for reusing decommissioned oil and gas platforms for renewable energy projects, including offshore wind, hydrogen production, and CO2 sequestration. Ram shares insights from his extensive experience […]

In this episode of Oil and Gas Upstream, host Elena Melchert speaks with Sally Goodson, President of Goodson Energy Associates, about her journey in the oil and gas industry, the challenges faced by women in a male-dominated field, and her book ‘Upstream Dream’. They discuss the importance of perseverance, mentorship, and the evolving landscape of […]

In this episode of Oil and Gas Upstream, host Elena Melchert interviews Dr. Susan Nash, Director of Innovation, Science, and Technology at the American Association of Petroleum Geologists. They discuss Dr. Nash’s journey in the energy sector, the challenges of energy poverty, the importance of education and training in energy access, and innovative solutions like […]

In this episode of Oil and Gas Upstream, host Elena Melchert interviews Susan Howes, President, SCA Subsurface Consultants Associates. They discuss Susan’s journey in the oil and gas industry, the intricacies of upstream operations, and the importance of reservoir engineering. The conversation also touches on the challenges and innovations in subsurface engineering, the role of […]

In this episode, Elena Melchert interviews Eric Junkers, President, Hytorc, discussing the evolution and importance of bolting systems in the oil and gas industry. They explore the science behind bolting, the tools and technologies used, and Hytorc’s role in significant events like the Deepwater Horizon incident. Eric emphasizes the company’s commitment to safety, efficiency, and […]

In this episode of Oil and Gas Upstream, host Elena Melchert interviews Tak Ishikawa, President and CEO of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries America (MIH). They discuss the company’s extensive history, its significant role in the energy sector with DOE investment, particularly in natural gas and carbon capture technology, and the future of energy in the context […]

In this episode, Elena Melchert interviews Matthew Stevenson, Chief Revenue Officer, Svante, about the advancements in carbon capture technology and its significance in addressing climate change. They discuss the different methods of carbon capture, particularly focusing on adsorption, and the role of industries like cement in carbon emissions. Matthew shares the evolution of Svante’s technology, […]

In this conversation, Elena Melchert interviews Anne Bradbury, President and CEO of AXPC, discussing the role of independent oil and gas producers in the U.S. energy landscape. The benefits of U.S. export of oil and gas, sound regulatory and permitting requirements and certainty especially as related to infrastructure.  The discussion also highlights innovation within the […]

This conversation with Host, Elena Melchert, Elodie Morgan and Habib Al Khatib, explores innovative approaches in geophysics, particularly focusing on SpotLight technology that revolutionizes seismic imaging and subsurface monitoring. The guests discuss the philosophical underpinnings of monitoring, the journey of building SpotLight, and the challenges faced in the carbon capture and storage (CCS) sector. They […]

In this conversation, the founders of Clas VI.AI discuss the challenges faced in the oil and gas industry, particularly regarding the administrative burdens associated with permitting processes. They emphasize the need for efficiency and how AI technology can streamline these processes, ultimately leading to faster project approvals and reduced costs. The discussion also touches on […]

In this episode, Elena Melchert, sat down with Zach Liu, Director of CCUS Subsurface at Harvest Stone Low Carbon Partners, to explore the complex regulatory and technical landscape of Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) permitting. Recorded live at the SPE-AAPG-SEG 2025 CCUS Conference in Houston, Texas, this conversation dives into key permitting challenges, strategies […]

In this episode, Elena Melchert, Host, talks with Malc Kent, Viridien, about the evolution of Viridian, its legacy in the oil and gas industry, and the innovations in CO2 sequestration and seismic data. He shares his personal journey in the industry, emphasizing the value of beginning his career production. The discussion also covers the role […]

In this conversation, Host, Elena Melchert interviews David Riesenberg who discusses the significance of carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS) in addressing climate change. They explore the technical, regulatory, and operational aspects of CCUS, including the history of CO2 injection, the importance of monitoring and regulatory frameworks, and the international landscape of CCUS initiatives. The […]

In this episode, Elena Melchert discusses the critical role of water in the oil and gas industry with guests Nick Nicholas and Andrea Bautista. They explore the complexities of produced water, its treatment, and the economic implications of water management. The conversation highlights the importance of sustainability and collaboration in addressing water challenges, emphasizing the […]

 In this episode of the Oil and Gas Upstream podcast, host Elena Melchert discusses the importance of sustainability and decarbonization in the oil and gas industry with guests Trey Schaffer, Senior Partner, Environmental Resources Management (ERM) and Farshid Mostowfi, Technology Advisor and Environmental Sustainability Champion, SLB.   They explore the origins of the Decarbonization Congress, […]

In this episode of the Oil and Gas Upstream podcast, host Elena Melchert discusses the importance of sustainability and decarbonization in the oil and gas industry with guests Trey Schaffer, Senior Partner, Environmental Resources Management (ERM) and Farshid Mostowfi, Technology Advisor and Environmental Sustainability Champion, SLB.   They explore the origins of the Decarbonization Congress, […]

In this conversation, Elena Melchert and Lachlan Hughson discuss the intersection of finance and engineering within the oil and gas industry. They explore the importance of upgrading the finance function to improve decision-making, the role of software in financial modeling, and the impact of financial decisions on society. Lachlan emphasizes the need for a probabilistic […]

In this episode, Elena Melchert interviews James Deckelman, CEO of Blue Energies, discussing the company’s upcoming public listing and its strategic positioning in the oil and gas sector. They explore the dynamic market conditions, the advantages of a reconnaissance license, and the potential impact of Blue Energies’ operations in Liberia. The conversation highlights the challenges […]

In this episode, Elena Melchert interviews Matthew Stevenson, Chief Revenue Officer of Svante, a carbon management company focused on innovative carbon capture technologies. They discuss the importance of carbon capture in addressing climate change, the company’s journey towards commercialization, and the technological advancements that make Svante’s approach unique. The conversation also covers the financial aspects […]

In this episode of Oil and Gas Upstream, host Elena Melchert speaks with David Boggs, Managing Director of Energy Maritime Associates. They discuss the floating production industry, the evolution of LNG in the US, and the various types of offshore facilities such as FPSOs, FSOs, TLPs, and SPARs. David shares insights into the lifecycle of […]

In this episode of Oil and Gas Upstream, host Elena Melchert interviews Ernie Miller, CEO of Verde Clean Fuels. They discuss Miller’s extensive background in the oil and gas industry, the deregulation of natural gas and power markets, and the innovative solutions Verde Clean Fuels offers for utilizing low-value natural gas. The conversation highlights the […]

In this episode of Oil and Gas Upstream, host Elena Melchert interviews Collins Bioseh, a market segment manager for Haglund’s, a subsidiary of Bosch Rexroth. They discuss the role of Haglund’s in the oil and gas industry, focusing on their innovative hydraulic motors and their applications in various machinery. Collins shares his journey into the […]

In this episode of Oil and Gas Upstream, host Elena Melchert interviews Matt Elbert and Christan Perkins from Tachyus, a company focused on revolutionizing reservoir management through artificial intelligence and data analytics. They discuss the challenges and innovations in oil recovery, the importance of optimizing production strategies, and the role of technology in addressing environmental […]

In this episode of Oil and Gas Upstream, host Elena Melchert engages with guests Warren Spiwak and Hilde Haviland to discuss the complexities of energy risks and insurance and the intersection of energy, insurance, and financial strategies, emphasizing the importance of understanding risks and the evolving landscape of the industry. They also explore the importance […]

In this conversation, Elena Melchert talks with Dan Naatz, Independent Petroleum Association (IPAA) about the partnership of IPAA with the North American Prospects Expo (NAPE) event, highlighting the importance of independent oil and gas producers in the U.S. He emphasizes the opportunities and risks in the industry, the continuous innovation and technology advancements, and the […]

In this episode, host Elena Melchert talks with Courtney Childress about what happens BEFORE drilling for oil. What is a Landman, and what does he or she do?  If you own subsurface minerals such as oil and gas, what do you do to monetize your holdings?  Ms. Childers takes us through the process, step by […]