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Beyond the Pump: Navigating Middle East Conflict and American Energy, Congresswoman Beth Van Duyne

This was a fun interview with Congresswoman Beth Van Duyne on my recent trip to Washington, DC. I had some great meetings, and she is doing great things for her constituents. Here is just some of the key points we covered.

  1. American Energy Independence & Oil Production The interview emphasizes Texas’s historical and ongoing role in American energy. It references the 1901 Spindletop discovery and argues that despite alternative energy sources (wind, solar, electric), America still fundamentally depends on oil. The discussion highlights the importance of supporting American oil producers and maintaining competitive global positioning.
  2. The Strait of Hormuz & Middle East Conflict Congresswoman Van Dyen discusses the geopolitical tensions affecting oil prices, particularly the conflict in the Middle East. She explains the administration’s goals regarding preventing a terrorist regime (Iran) from obtaining nuclear weapons, while also emphasizing the desire to exit the conflict as soon as possible. 

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Featured Guests

Insights and perspectives from the people driving today’s most important conversations.

Congresswoman Beth Van Duyne

Congresswoman Beth Van Duyne

Steve Gruber

Steve Gruber

Brent Franklin

Brent Franklin

Railroad Commissioner Jim Wright

Railroad Commissioner Jim Wright

Lauren Varnado

Lauren Varnado

Tiffany Legg

Tiffany Legg

Randy Nicodemus

Randy Nicodemus

Jim Holmes

Jim Holmes

Own mineral rights and don't know what they're worth? Candace Pfluger and Kim Hohmann break down royalties, inheritance mistakes, and generational wealth. Somebody in your family signed a lease sixty years ago and never told you what it meant. Now the checks show up and you have no idea what you're holding. That's most mineral owners in Texas. Rey Treviño sits down with Candace Pfluger and Kim Hohmann of Pfluger Mineral Offices to explain what you actually own, where families lose money without realizing it, and what it takes to keep an asset in the family for another generation. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN: 1. Mineral rights vs. royalties vs. working interests, explained in plain English 2. How families turn mineral ownership into wealth that outlasts them 3. The recordkeeping mistakes that cost heirs real money 4. What to do first when you inherit mineral interests 5. Why the National Association of Royalty Owners (NARO) matters for owners 6. How new technology is opening doors in oil and gas 7. Practical systems for managing and protecting a mineral portfolio If you own minerals, or you think you might inherit them one day, don't skip this one. GUESTS: Candace Pfluger and Kim Hohmann, Pfluger Mineral Offices ABOUT THE CRUDE TRUTH: Rey Treviño is a third-generation oil man and the president of Pecos Country Operating. He's been on rigs, in courtrooms, and in front of regulators, and he's tired of watching people who've never set foot on a lease explain this business on TV. So he brings on the folks actually doing the work. Operators. Landowners. Investors. Policy people. They sit down, they talk straight, and nobody reads off a script. That's the crude truth. 🔗 CONNECT WITH REY Website: https://pecosoperating.com LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/reytrevinoiii X: https://x.com/truth_crude Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-crude-truth/id1625700964 👍 New episodes drop regularly. Hit subscribe and turn on the bell so you catch the next one. #MineralRights #Royalties #OilAndGas #TheCrudeTruth #GenerationalWealth #NARO #MineralOwners #TexasOil #PermianBasin #EnergyIndustry #OilInvesting #Landowners #FamilyWealth #EstatePlanning #Energy

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Minerals, Royalties & Family Wealth: What Every Landowner Needs to Know

The Crude Truth with Rey TrevinoAugust 4, 2026 1:00 pm

What makes West Texas networking different from anywhere else? In this episode of The Crude Truth, Rey Trevino sits down with Derrick Black, a respected oil & gas professional, community leader, and founder of Coffee & Connections. Derrick shares his journey from telecommunications with AT&T to building a successful career in the Permian Basin, while using his passion for networking to connect people, businesses, and nonprofits throughout West Texas. The conversation explores the culture of the Permian Basin, the importance of authentic relationships, the impact of community involvement, and how strong networks can create opportunities both inside and outside the oilfield. Derrick also discusses his work with local nonprofits, his commitment to leaving a meaningful legacy, and an exciting new venture that could bring innovative production technology to the industry. In This Episode: ✔️ Derrick Black's journey into oil & gas ✔️ Why networking is critical for career growth ✔️ The story behind Coffee & Connections ✔️ Supporting local nonprofits in West Texas ✔️ The unique culture of the Permian Basin ✔️ Leadership, legacy, and community impact ✔️ Future opportunities in the energy industry Whether you're in oil & gas, business development, sales, or simply looking to build stronger professional relationships, this episode offers valuable insights on creating meaningful connections that drive success. Connect with Derrick on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derrickblackbdm/ #TheCrudeTruth #OilAndGas #PermianBasin #WestTexas #Networking #Leadership #energyindustry #communityimpact #businessdevelopment #oilfieldservices #energyleadership #professionalgrowth #podcast Check out LFS Chemistry Sponsor of the Crude Truth here: https://lfschemistry.com/ Follow Rey on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reytrevinoiii/ Also, Pecos Operating Website: https://pecosoperating.com/ Also, the great Production team at Real News Public Relations https://www.realnewspr.com/

What makes West Texas networking different from anywhere else?

In this episode of The Crude Truth, Rey Trevino sits down with Derrick Black, a respected oil & gas professional, community leader, and founder of Coffee & Connections. Derrick shares his journey from telecommunications with AT&T to building a successful career in the Permian Basin, while using his passion for networking to connect people, businesses, and nonprofits throughout West Texas.

The conversation explores the culture of the Permian Basin, the importance of authentic relationships, the impact of community involvement, and how strong networks can create opportunities both inside and outside the oilfield. Derrick also discusses his work with local nonprofits, his commitment to leaving a meaningful legacy, and an exciting new venture that could bring innovative production technology to the industry.

In This Episode:
✔️ Derrick Black's journey into oil & gas
✔️ Why networking is critical for career growth
✔️ The story behind Coffee & Connections
✔️ Supporting local nonprofits in West Texas
✔️ The unique culture of the Permian Basin
✔️ Leadership, legacy, and community impact
✔️ Future opportunities in the energy industry

Whether you're in oil & gas, business development, sales, or simply looking to build stronger professional relationships, this episode offers valuable insights on creating meaningful connections that drive success.

Connect with Derrick on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derrickblackbdm/

#TheCrudeTruth #OilAndGas #PermianBasin #WestTexas #Networking #Leadership #energyindustry #communityimpact #businessdevelopment #oilfieldservices #energyleadership #professionalgrowth #podcast

Check out LFS Chemistry Sponsor of the Crude Truth here: https://lfschemistry.com/

Follow Rey on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reytrevinoiii/

Also, Pecos Operating Website: https://pecosoperating.com/

Also, the great Production team at Real News Public Relations

https://www.realnewspr.com/

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Why West Texas Wins: Derrick Black on Energy, People & Purpose

The Crude Truth with Rey TrevinoJuly 9, 2026 11:50 am

Former Miss America and nuclear fuels engineer Grace Vanderhei returns to The Crude Truth to break down why nuclear energy is making a major comeback in the United States. From the restart of Three Mile Island Unit 1 — now the Crane Clean Energy Center — to the growing demand for clean, reliable power, Grace explains how nuclear energy can help fuel America’s future. Connect with Grace on her LinkedIn! https://www.linkedin.com/in/gracevanderhei/ Rey Trevino and Grace discuss her work with Constellation, the energy density of nuclear fuel, the role of uranium, the future of small modular reactors, and why nuclear remains one of the most powerful tools for energy independence. They also dive into the importance of building new projects on time and on budget, the bipartisan support behind nuclear, and why staying curious is key to understanding the future of energy. 1. Nuclear Energy as a Clean, Reliable Power Source The core theme throughout the episode is promoting nuclear energy as a viable, clean, and reliable alternative to fossil fuels. The host emphasizes that nuclear is becoming increasingly important in America's energy independence strategy, alongside oil and gas. 2. Grace Vanderheide's Career in Nuclear Engineering Grace discusses her role as a nuclear fuels engineer at Constellation Energy, the largest commercial nuclear reactor fleet operator in the US with 21 operating reactors. She explains her work designing nuclear fuel for operating plants and upcoming restart projects. 3. Three Mile Island Unit 1 Restart (Crane Clean Energy Center) A significant portion focuses on the restart of Three Mile Island Unit 1, which was decommissioned in 2019. Grace elaborates on: The distinction between Unit 1 (safe, operated until 2019) and Unit 2 (the 1979 incident) The engineering challenges of designing a completely new fuel core Community support and job creation benefits The political backing from the current administration 4. Nuclear Fuel Design and Energy Density Grace explains the technical aspects of nuclear fuel, including: The concept of "spicy uranium" (U-235 vs U-238) How one fuel pellet produces as much energy as 1 ton of coal, 17,000 cubic feet of natural gas, or 150 gallons of oil The potential for increased enrichment levels (LEU+) to improve efficiency 5. Recent Nuclear Developments in the US Discussion of recent milestones: Vogel Units 3 & 4 in Georgia (first new reactors built from scratch in 30 years, powering ~4 million homes) Federal support and billions in loans for new nuclear projects Trump administration's goal to triple US nuclear capacity 6. Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) Grace provides a balanced perspective on SMRs: Acknowledges their potential but cautions against overpromising Emphasizes the need for fully licensed designs before construction Advocates for building on time and on budget to maintain industry credibility 7. International Nuclear Advocacy Grace shares her experiences promoting nuclear energy internationally: Her tour in Australia, where nuclear is banned (only G7 nation with this restriction) The bipartisan support for nuclear in the US compared to other countries Her work engaging with legislators and policymakers 8. Grace's Personal Journey and Future Plans Her transition from Miss America 2023 to nuclear engineer Pursuing an MBA in International Business to move into the fuel supply chain sector Writing a book about optimism (launching early 2027) Her continued advocacy for nuclear energy through social media and public engagement The podcast emphasizes nuclear energy's critical role in meeting growing energy demands while maintaining environmental sustainability and economic benefits. Check out LFS Chemistry Sponsor of the Crude Truth here: https://lfschemistry.com/ Follow Rey on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reytrevinoiii/ Also, Pecos Operating Website: https://pecosoperating.com/ Also, the great Production team at Real News Public Relations https://www.realnewspr.com/ #nuclear #nuclearenergy #nuclearpower

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From Miss America to Nuclear Engineer: Grace Vanderhei on the Future of Energy

The Crude Truth with Rey TrevinoJuly 28, 2026 1:00 pm

Human trafficking is one of the world's most hidden and devastating crimes—and it's happening closer to home than many realize. In this episode of The Crude Truth, host Rey Trevino sits down with David Reid, CTO and CMO of NOV and founder of Red M, to discuss how he's using his platform in the energy industry to bring awareness to human trafficking and protect vulnerable children and families. We recommend connecting with David Reed on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidred/ David shares the powerful mission behind Red M, how trafficking often begins through grooming and manipulation, and why education and awareness are the most important tools in preventing exploitation. He also discusses the organization's global growth, the launch of the Red Card United campaign during the 2026 World Cup, and how businesses and individuals can get involved. 🎙️ In this episode: To learn more or get involved with Red M, visit JoinRedM.com and follow Red M on LinkedIn. 1. Human Trafficking & Red M Organization The primary focus of the episode is human trafficking awareness and prevention. David Reed, CTO and CMO of NOV and founder of Red M, discusses the organization's mission to combat human trafficking, particularly the grooming and exploitation of minors. Key points include: Red M operates 23-26 chapters across North America and the UK The organization focuses on education and awareness rather than deep intervention They've engaged over 6,000 volunteers in Houston alone over 8 years 2. Grooming and Recruitment Tactics David explains how traffickers operate: Victims are typically groomed rather than forcibly taken Traffickers use cult-like techniques, sleep deprivation, and emotional manipulation They isolate victims from families by convincing them "no one cares" The process typically targets mid-teens and can take years Spotters and controllers work in coordination to maintain control 3. Warning Signs & Identification The conversation covers how to recognize trafficking indicators: Behavioral changes in children (wrong crowd, suspicious relationships) Sleep deprivation and constant phone use Isolation from family and friends The importance of training parents and professionals to identify these signs 4. Red M's Awareness Campaigns Several initiatives are discussed: Action Speaks Campaign: Care package building where people write encouraging notes to trafficking survivors Red Card Campaign: Using World Cup football/soccer as a platform to raise awareness, with red cards symbolizing a "red card to trafficking" In-company training sessions at major corporations (Deloitte, HPE, Dell) Statistics showing that in groups of 30 people, typically 1 person has a child being groomed 5. The World Cup 2026 Platform David discusses leveraging the World Cup (hosted in North America) as an awareness opportunity: Red cards will be distributed at Houston Dynamo friendly games The campaign uses the visual metaphor of a red card (player ejection) to represent stopping trafficking Website: redcardunited.com directs people to simple, accessible education The goal is to reach international audiences through football/soccer 6. Funding & Volunteer Model Red M's unique approach to operations: The organization operates entirely on volunteers They actively discourage donations and focus on awareness instead Recently secured $1.6 million from 35 oil and gas CEOs for an advertising campaign Money is used for awareness campaigns and directed to survivor organizations No buildings or administrative overhead 7. Oil & Gas Industry Connection The episode emphasizes why Red M focuses on oil and gas communities: Oil and gas workers travel frequently to different cities This creates natural opportunities to establish chapters in new locations The industry has embraced the mission (Patterson UTI, SLB, Houston Airports involved) The platform allows industry leaders to use their influence for purpose 8. Personal Motivation & Purpose David shares his journey: His wife initially got involved with anti-trafficking work Realizing the issue affected children motivated his deeper involvement He views his platform at NOV as an opportunity to create positive change The work has become a "movement" rather than a forced initiative The episode emphasizes that human trafficking is a real, present danger affecting communities across North America, and that awareness and education are critical first steps in prevention. #TheCrudeTruth #DavidReid #RedM #HumanTraffickingAwareness #RedCardUnited #Leadership #OilAndGas #WorldCup2026 #PlatformForPurpose #EndHumanTrafficking #Podcast #EnergyIndustry #childprotection Check out LFS Chemistry Sponsor of the Crude Truth here: https://lfschemistry.com/ Follow Rey on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reytrevinoiii/ Also, Pecos Operating Website: https://pecosoperating.com/ Also, the great Production team at Real News Public Relations https://www.realnewspr.com/

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Red Cards Against Human Trafficking | David Reid on The Crude Truth

The Crude Truth with Rey TrevinoJuly 6, 2026 1:39 pm

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