What The Funk?

Reed’s story is one of those classic oil patch tales with a modern twist, starting out fixing wells on a tight budget and somehow turning that grind into building his own company. He grew up around oil, gas, and cattle, and instead of running from it, he leaned all the way in, carving out his own path with Jaybird Resources. What makes him stand out isn’t just his business chops, but the way he refuses to play by anyone else’s rulebook, owning who he is while chasing bold ideas like modular refineries. This conversation is full of gri...

Justin’s story is all about turning struggle into strength. After racking up over 1,400 days of sobriety, he’s faced the heavy loss of both parents and some huge life shifts, yet somehow, he’s managed to carve out a sense of peace and purpose in the middle of it all. Growing up as an athlete and later working in management consulting, Justin learned discipline, resilience, and how to channel energy in ways that lift both himself and others. We talked about what it really means to live with intention, find joy in the present, and create momentum even when l...

From Spring, Texas to the helm of his own startup, Tyler’s journey is all about turning big ideas into real change for oil and gas. He cut his teeth at LSU, sharpened his skills leading innovative projects at EOG Resources, and now with CT Evolution, he’s tackling downhole logistics in a way that’s shaking up how operators and service companies work together. We got into the grit of launching a business, the headaches and breakthroughs of bringing patented tools to market, and how those innovations are unlocking better reservoir and production diagnostics. It’s part startup grind, p...

What happens when a Chico kid with a dream and a serious work ethic decides to shake up the local bar scene? You get Sebastian Tamarelle, owner of The Banshee and B Street Public House and the kind of guy who didn’t set out to lead but ended up becoming a community pillar anyway. Jeremy sits down with his childhood buddy to swap stories, talk shop, and dig into everything from ditching the corporate grind to surviving post-COVID curveballs. You’ll hear what it’s really like to run two of the town’s most iconic spots, how a surpri...

Relationships are at the heart of everything Mary does, from building out tech solutions in oil and gas to swapping baking tips and golf stories. We got into how she went from Baltimore to becoming the face of Welland, the consulting firm making data reporting way less painful with tools like Unidata and SQL (but don't worry, she keeps it human). Mary’s one of those people who makes remote work look effortless, balancing serious technical chops with genuine connection. Also, her dog’s name is Drago, which basically makes her cooler than all of us.

Jo...

Running a company that’s shaking up oil and gas with AI is wild enough, but try doing that on zero sleep with a newborn in the house. That’s life for Josh Politte, who somehow manages to lead ACT Solutions & Consulting while changing diapers and dodging spit-up. He shares stories from a globe-spanning career (50+ countries!), the year Egypt cracked open his worldview, and how he went from petroleum engineer to Microsoft-powered problem solver. We get into why tech in this industry actually matters, how AI isn't just a buzzword, and why being a new dad might just be the...

Steve Cooper went from mining rocks in the UK to mining insights in the oil and gas world, building and eventually selling EnergyIQ, a company that tackled the chaos of industry data before COVID flipped the world upside down. He breaks down how a background in computer science and a bit of stubborn problem-solving turned into a business that stood out by actually giving a damn about data quality. Jeremy digs into the story behind the scenes, what it took to lead through downturns, why timing is everything, and what Steve’s up to now as he backs the ne...

What happens when two sharp minds from the oilfield and IT world team up to fix the clunky data problems plaguing oil and gas? You get Rivitt, an AI-powered game-changer that’s tackling inefficiencies, boosting safety, and making ops smoother than a fresh cup of frac fluid. Jeremy sits down with the brains behind it, Steven and Clay, to talk about scrappy beginnings, bold ideas, and how a little bit of stubbornness (and a whole lot of late nights) turned into a tech company that’s shaking up the industry.

Join the conversation shaping the futu...

Turning a sketch on a napkin into a $20 million energy tech company? That’s exactly what happened and the story’s wild. From navigating the chaos of startup life to hitting pause after a major health scare, this convo pulls back the curtain on the real grit behind building Westgen Technologies. We’re talking leadership lessons, coaching that actually worked, and a whole lot of figuring things out the hard way. Oh, and if you’re into solving big problems like powering up remote wellsites without trashing the planet, you’ll want to hear how Ben’s doing just that.

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Alzheimer’s is tough, but this episode is all about the people fighting back in the most unexpected ways, like hopping on a bike and riding for something bigger. We sat down with Brian from the Alzheimer’s Association and Steve, a cyclist whose mom’s diagnosis lit a fire in him to make a difference. From emotional stories to groundbreaking updates (think blood tests and FDA-approved meds), we cover the science, the personal, and the power of pedaling with purpose. Whether you're in it for the community, the cause, or the ride itself, this one’s got heart, hope, an...

Vendor management in oil and gas is usually a mess of outdated systems and constant compliance headaches, but VenLink is flipping the script. We’re talking boots-on-the-ground experience turned into a sleek platform that’s using automation and AI to cut out the inefficiencies, slash risk, and give operators real-time visibility into their vendors. Joshua Owens, who’s been in the trenches with companies like Oxy and Parsley, built VenLink after years of watching vendor oversight go sideways. From rising insurance costs to stalled operations, he’s seen the ripple effects—and built a smarter way to manage it all. This...

What do you get when a lifelong pilot and a fashion industry pro team up? Skycam Aviation, that’s what, an aerial imaging company that’s flipping the script on how we track methane leaks and monitor the world from above. They’re strapping HD video systems onto planes, zipping through the skies at 15,000 feet, and collecting jaw-dropping footage packed with data that actually matters. From detecting methane in oil fields to keeping tabs on agriculture and infrastructure, their gear isn’t just smart, it’s downright cinematic. Plus, their story is wild: think private jets, high fashion, and high-tech...

From radio rigs in Army tents to running IT for a major oil and gas consulting firm, Curtis has had one hell of a ride, and he’s got the stories to prove it. He talks about swapping camo for keyboards, how military comms set the stage for his tech leadership style, and why he’s not sold on jumping on every shiny new AI trend. It’s a refreshingly no-BS look at what it really takes to lead tech teams in high-stakes environments, the power of practical problem-solving, and how staying grounded is just as important as staying cuttin...

From growing up in Oklahoma with two teachers for parents to making waves in the oil and gas world, Drew Hopkins has built a career on reputation, relationships, and a whole lot of hustle. He went from Chesapeake Energy to co-founding LIS and now leading business development at Novus, and along the way, he’s picked up some hard-earned wisdom about building a winning culture, driving responsible growth, and keeping your values in check while chasing big goals. This one’s packed with stories, lessons, and a few laughs as Drew shares what it really takes to make an impa...

From climbing the ranks at BP to betting on himself with Adaptive Edge, Danny Falligant has one hell of a story. He walked away from a cushy oil and gas career to shake things up in digital transformation, and now he’s redefining how land departments handle AI, document management, and data. Jeremy gets into the why and how of Danny’s big leap, the real challenges of running a tech startup while juggling family and travel, and why land groups deserve way more credit in the energy world. Plus, a look at where Adaptive Edge is headed, maybe even...

Sales engineering isn’t just about numbers and tech, it’s about people, problem-solving, and, surprisingly, a little bit of soul. This episode of *What the Funk?* brings in Darnell Franco from Detechtion Technologies, a guy who knows his way around compressor fleets *and* the complexities of being human. From breaking down digital twins and edge computing in oil and gas to sharing why mental health and "soul compensation" matter just as much as a paycheck, Darnell keeps it real. If you've ever wondered how to juggle the technical grind with personal growth (without burning out), this one’s for yo...

From cutting Halo montages to crafting high-impact content for the energy and tech world, Jacob Stiller’s story is one of passion, hustle, and a whole lot of creative grit. What started as DIY GoPro edits turned into a career that’s taken him around the world, co-founding Creator House Media and shaping Digital Wildcatters’ signature style. He opens up about the wild ride—from freelancing through the pandemic to turning storytelling into a powerful tool for industry innovation. Whether it's navigating the highs and lows of content creation or finding new ways to engage an audience, Jacob proves that a m...

Real-time data is changing the game in oil and gas, and SigmaStream is leading the charge. Jeremy and Hari Koduru talk about how their high-frequency data tech is shaking up drilling operations, making things faster, smarter, and way more efficient. Hari shares his journey from India to engineering to founding SigmaStream, breaking down the wild ride of building a company that thrives on precision data. We get into why split-second analytics matter, how better data leads to better decisions, and where all of this is headed—including some surprising moves into geothermal. If you’re into the mix of tech...

From sniper scopes to startup hustle, this episode’s got it all. Asher Fink went from Camp Ramah to the U.S. Army, serving as a sniper in Iraq, before pivoting into the tech world and landing as Chief Commercial Officer at HT Vista. We talk about how military discipline shaped his leadership, why being a generalist is underrated in startups, and how he’s shaking things up in veterinary health. Plus, Asher shares what it was like moving his family to Israel and why he sees himself as a “business athlete” rather than just another exec. Buckle up—this one’s...

Collecting fossils in Nebraska as a kid kicked off a lifelong passion for geology that took Jason Eleson from exploring for oil and gas with Exxon to championing carbon capture, hydrogen storage, and geothermal projects in his current role at Sproule. With a knack for nonlinear thinking and over two decades of experience, he’s navigated the ups and downs of both massive corporations and nimble startups—always hungry to adapt and learn. His fascination with what’s hidden beneath the surface drives fresh approaches to CCS, helium exploration, and beyond, while bipartisan support could hold the key to shapin...

From Twitter hot takes to tech innovation, Zac Coplon’s journey to co-founding 4cast is a masterclass in resilience, adaptability, and good timing. With roots in Oklahoma and a background as a mineral buyer, Zac saw an opportunity to shake up the oil and gas industry with a fresh, user-friendly approach to forecasting. Along the way, he’s balanced building a brand on social media with navigating the personal and professional curveballs of starting a business during COVID—and doing it all while moving his family across the country. In this episode, Zac gets real about the challenges of entrep...

Tired of the same old clunky tools in oil and gas? Avenirre is flipping the script with software that makes managing production and cash flow actually simple. Built by industry pros Casey Patterson and Larry Brazile, this cloud-based platform gives small and midsize operators enterprise-level power—think daily analytics, emissions tracking, and real-time well profitability insights—all without the enterprise price tag. Inspired by their experience at places like XTO and EOG, these guys are solving inefficiencies with smarter tech, constant updates, and rock-solid security. Whether you’re about optimizing wells or tackling emissions, Avenirre is bringing big-league solutions to the...

What’s it like to juggle mineral rights, navigate messy title issues, and help families manage royalties—all while thriving in the oil and gas world without relying on the industry’s boozy networking culture? That’s the life of a veteran landman who’s turned nearly two decades of experience into a thriving business. From his small-town roots to leading Land Runner, he’s mastered the art of building genuine relationships, managing complex deals, and mentoring others in the energy sector—all with patience, grit, and a refreshing focus on principles over shortcuts. It’s a mix of career wisdom, f...

Who says oil fields can’t get a tech makeover? Amplified Industries is turning the energy game on its head with slick software that cuts spills, boosts production, and saves cash—all while making advanced tech easy for operators to use. Founded by two MIT whizzes with backgrounds in quantum physics and investment banking, this Boston-based startup has gone from tinkering with small wells to tackling big operations, proving that big brains and bold ideas can modernize even the most traditional industries. It's Silicon Valley meets the oil patch, and it’s changing the future of energy.

J...

Josh Young, Portfolio Manager of Bison Interests, joins us to share his unique perspective on incentive theory and its impact on the oil and gas sector. Influenced by his time at the University of Chicago and mentorship from Nobel laureates like Milton Friedman, Josh’s contrarian approach to investing is rooted in a deep understanding of behavioral drivers in the market. In this engaging episode, he reveals his journey from Los Angeles to Houston, insights on navigating the volatile oil and gas landscape, and the role of technology in modern investment strategies. Josh’s approach sheds light on the bene...

Sally Hallingstad, a Business Development Executive at Moss Adams, joins Jeremy Funk on "What the Funk?" to share her authentic approach to networking in the energy sector. From her roots in North Dakota to her impactful role at the Denver Petroleum Club and now in Houston, Sally's journey highlights resilience and the power of genuine connection in male-dominated industries. Her strategies—staying authentic, asking questions, and building a supportive community—offer valuable insights for success across industries. Sally's experience reflects her adaptability and tenacity, making her a standout in the energy sector.

Join the conversation shap...

Vicki Knott, CEO and Co-Founder of Crux OCM, shares her inspiring journey from growing up in rural Newfoundland to becoming a tech leader in the oil and gas industry. Vicki talks about her unique upbringing on a remote island, her transition from engineering student to CEO, and how she uses AI to innovate in industrial markets. She discusses the challenges she faced, including her unconventional approach to automating pipeline operations, and offers insights into the future of tech startups in the energy sector. Vicki’s story highlights her path from a subsistence lifestyle to becoming a driving force in th...

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Join Jeremy as he dives deep into the fascinating world of oil and gas with guest Mark D'Alessio, a Senior Account Executive at Esri, on the What the Funk? Podcast. Discover how Esri, renowned as a leading GIS mapping company, is transforming the oil and gas sector with cutting-edge solutions that enhance efficiency and safety. Mark shares his journey from New Jersey to Houston, overcoming industry challenges and embracing innovation.

Key Takeaways:
- Esri's vital role in oil and gas...

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Dive deep into the fascinating journey of Deanna Zhang, CEO of V1 Climate Solutions, as she transitions from banking to the burgeoning world of climate tech on the What the Funk? Podcast. Discover how Deanna's bold move led her to become a thought leader in energy and climate technology. Key Takeaways include insights into the challenges of first-of-a-kind projects, the intersection of industrial markets with AI, and the future of sustainable energy. The Backstory reveals Deanna's roots in Houston and her academic jou...

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Dive deep into the world of leadership development and discover Ashley McCormick's leadership secrets on the latest episode of What the Funk? Podcast. Join host Jeremy as he explores Ashley's journey from her Nebraska roots to becoming a founder of Rooted in Leadership. Ashley shares her unique insights from her experiences at Devon Energy and Paycom, highlighting the power of effective training and leadership in the oil and gas sector. Discover how Ashley's contrarian approach to leadership, focusing on listening and empowerment, tra...

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Dive deep into AI's Next Frontier: Oil & Gas Innovation Unveiled with Jeremy and guests Jon Brewton and Matt Kilker from data² on the What the Funk? Podcast. Discover how AI is set to revolutionize the oil and gas industry, with key insights from industry veterans. Key Takeaways include the transformative role of AI in high-reliability sectors, the unique challenges of integrating AI in oil and gas, and how data² is pioneering these changes with a contrarian approach. 

The Backstory: Jon Brewto...

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Dive deep into the future of painting with PaintJet's disruptive tech on this episode of What the Funk? Podcast. Discover how Nick Hegeman, CEO & Co-Founder of PaintJet, is revolutionizing the painting industry with innovative robotics, tackling the labor shortage challenge in construction and oil and gas sectors. Key takeaways include insights into Nick's entrepreneurial journey, the inception of PaintJet, and the strategic approach to solving industry-specific problems. 

The Backstory: From a labor-intensive painting business to pioneering a tech startup, Nick shar...

Join over 3,000 professionals in the next-generation community for the energy industry 👉 https://bit.ly/4dwXWsE

Dive deep into the new world of land administration with Taylor Richards, Director of Land Administration at Civitas Resources, on this insightful episode of What the Funk? Podcast. Discover how Taylor, a dynamic leader and mom, navigates the complexities of merging multiple companies into a cohesive entity, driving data standardization, and optimizing land management processes. Key Takeaways include understanding the division order process, strategies for successful company mergers, and the crucial role of data in oil and gas operations.

The Bac...

Join Jeremy on the What the Funk? Podcast as he dives deep into the entrepreneurial journey of Dan Locke, Co-Founder & CEO of Giv.co In this engaging episode, discover Dan's secrets to building a successful startup, from his early days at Brandeis University to his innovative ventures in the pizza business and beyond.

- **The Backstory:** Learn how Jeremy and Dan's college friendship evolved into a business partnership.
- **The Problem:** Understand the challenges Dan faced in traditional business settings and his drive to create more meaningful connections.
- **AI to the Rescue:** Find out...

Dive deep into the world of oil and gas with the latest episode of the What the Funk? Podcast! In this episode, we're thrilled to have Trisha Curtis, the dynamic President and CEO of PetroNerds, as our guest.

Discover how Trisha Curtis, a leading voice in the oil and gas sector, unveils industry secrets and shares her journey from a small-town farm girl to an international energy expert. 🌍 Her passion for the industry, combined with her sharp insights into global energy trends, sets the stage for an engaging and enlightening conversation.

Trisha Curtis has been a p...

Dive deep into the world of marketing with Jeremy and the brilliant Bella Kelada-Khalil, Jr. Business Development Manager at Midnight Marketing, on the latest episode of "What the Funk?" podcast! Discover how Bella's bold marketing secrets are reshaping the landscape and learn how her fearless approach to content creation and branding is driving Midnight Marketing to new heights.

In this engaging episode, Bella shares her journey from shy theater kid to a dynamic business development manager. She reveals the challenges and triumphs of breaking into the oil and gas sector, her innovative strategies for customer engagement, and...

Charles Cormier Reveals Cold Email Secrets** on the What the Funk? Podcast! Dive deep into the world of cold email outreach with Jeremy and special guest Charles Cormier, CEO of TopLeads Agency. Discover how Charles, a true disruptor and creative mind, has mastered the art of cold emailing, helping CEOs and founders connect with their ideal clients and scale their businesses.

Charles’s path to success started with early entrepreneurial ventures, learning from an eccentric mentor, and making over 200 calls a day. Today, he runs multiple businesses, helps CEOs with lead generation, and dreams of creating a sc...

Join us on this captivating episode of "What the Funk?" Podcast as we dive deep into CEO Chris Walcot’s tech secrets revealed! Jeremy sits down with Chris Walcot, the dynamic CEO of Progressive Technology Solutions Ltd (Progressive TSL), to uncover the fascinating journey of transforming a service-centric company into a tech powerhouse that's now making waves internationally and pushing hard into the US market.

Discover how Chris, who grew up in Cardiff, Wales, overcame the challenges of dyslexia to become a leading figure in the tech industry. From his early days working with the National Air Tr...

Dive deep into the world of data engineering with Chevron's Dominique Ferency on this episode of the "What the Funk?" podcast! 🎙️ Discover how Dominique's journey from Seven Lakes to Chevron has shaped her multifaceted career in tech and data engineering. This engaging conversation with Jeremy reveals the secrets behind Chevron's data strategies, Dominique's passion for technology, and the importance of building strong professional networks.

Guest Bio:
Dominique Ferency, the Data Engineering Sub-Chapter Head at Chevron, has a rich background in tech, starting from her early days tinkering with software in junior high. With a degree in compu...

Dive deep into the transformative world of oil land management with the latest episode of "What the Funk?"! In this captivating discussion, Jeremy sits down with Jordan McGee, Vice President of Land Technology at Northern Oil and Gas Inc., to explore how AI is revolutionizing the industry.

Discover how Jordan navigates the complexities of managing extensive land assets in the oil and gas sector, leveraging advanced technologies to streamline operations and boost efficiency. From his early days running title in Oklahoma to his dynamic role in Minnesota, Jordan shares fascinating insights and personal anecdotes that make this...