In this engaging conversation, Brandon Spencer, President of ABB’s Motion Business, discuss leadership, innovation, and the shifting energy landscape. Brandon shares how being the “oxygen” in the room shapes his leadership, why optimism is his superpower, and how embracing both wins and losses drives growth. From challenging age-related biases to redefining leadership titles, Brandon offers fresh, actionable insights for professionals navigating today’s evolving energy sector.

Key Takeaways

Why Brandon calls his leadership style “oxygen”

How Brandon is challenging age bias in leadership

The story behind leading with “won’t titles”—and why it matters

How team culture fuels innovation

The power of optimism and adaptability in leadership

Real talk: losses, learning, and leading with humility

Why the future of energy demands flexibility, not perfection

Opportunities ahead in solving energy poverty

Why mentorship isn’t optional—it’s essential

Advice for young professionals entering the energy industry

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Brendan Spencer's Journey

02:28 Career Path and Key Decisions

06:24 Leadership Philosophy and Biases

11:29 The Energy Industry Landscape

16:31 Opportunities and Challenges in Energy Transition

21:41 Reflections on Career and Decision-Making

27:56 Leadership Insights and Personal Philosophy

33:58 Navigating Challenges and Losses

37:03 Career Development and Overcoming Biases

Keywords

leadership, energy industry, overcoming biases, career growth, mentorship, ABB, innovation, team success, personal journey, future of energy, oil, gas, chemicals

In this episode, Dr. Lance Mortlock (linkedin.com/in/dr-lance-mortlock-01b36b22), a Managing Partner at Ernst & Young (EY) and energy transformation expert discusses his journey in the energy sector, cultural adaptations, industry resistance to change, and the accelerating pace of innovation. He emphasizes digital transformation and energy transition, drawing insights from his book 'Disaster Proof' and introducing his upcoming book 'Outside In Inside Out'. The conversation highlights the need for effective talent management and strategic planning in the energy landscape.

Takeaways

• Dr. Mortlock's journey reflects the importance of adaptability in diverse cultures.
• Resistance to change is a common challenge in the energy sector.
• Organizations need to embrace digital transformation to stay relevant.
• Scenario planning is crucial for managing risk and uncertainty.
• Talent management strategies are essential for long-term success.
• The energy transition requires a balance between sustainability and affordability.
• Effective communication is key to executing strategic initiatives.
• Leaders must prioritize long-term thinking over short-term gains.
• Innovation in technology is reshaping the energy landscape.
• The intersection of internal and external strategies is vital for success.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Lance Mortlock

02:32 Dr. Mortlock's Journey in the Energy Industry

06:00 Cultural Adaptability in Global Energy Markets

09:22 Resistance to Change in the Energy Sector

12:34 The Acceleration of Change Post-COVID

14:27 Trends in Digital Transformation and Automation

17:44 The Importance of Talent Management

19:04 Insights from 'Disaster Proof' Book

23:23 Overview of 'Outside In Inside Out' Book

27:26 Promoting Balance Between Internal and External Focus

32:24 Opportunities for Growth in the Energy Sector

35:06 Long-term Challenges in Energy Transition Leadership

Keywords

energy transformation, oil and gas, leadership, change management, digital transformation, talent management, scenario planning, strategy, innovation, energy transition, chemicals, Lance Mortlock, EY, Ernst & Young

In this episode,Gary Reid, President and CEO of Madison Industrial Group, shares his three-decade journey in the oil and gas, process and other industries. Discover the importance of customer experience, the impact of diverse industry exposure, and the challenges and opportunities in the sector. Gary also explores how technology drives sustainability and innovation, emphasizing humility and continuous learning in leadership. Perfect for aspiring professionals seeking valuable insights!

Takeaways

• Gary Reid has over 30 years of experience in the energy sector.
• Customer experience is crucial for understanding industry needs.
• Diverse industry exposure enhances problem-solving skills.
• The oil and gas industry faces both challenges and opportunities.
• Technology plays a pivotal role in energy transition.
• Humility is essential for effective leadership.
• Continuous learning is key to personal and professional growth.
• Creating an environment for innovation is vital for success.
• Every experience, good or bad, contributes to growth.
• The energy industry must balance growth with environmental responsibility.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Gary Reid and His Journey

11:04 The Importance of Customer Service Experience

16:20 Navigating Different Industries

20:54 Challenges and Opportunities in the Oil and Gas Industry

25:43 The Role of Technology in the Energy Sector

30:25 Adapting to New Technologies in the Energy Sector

34:41 Advice to My Younger Self

39:42 Leadership Insights and Unwinding Strategies

Keywords

Gary Reid, Oil and Gas, Leadership, Technology, Customer Experience, Industry Challenges, Personal Growth, Energy Transition, Humility, Innovation, Canada, USA, Calgary, Madison, Industrial, Group

In this episode, Aparna Subramanian, a seasoned engineering leader with 20 years of experience in the LNG, refining, and petrochemical industry shares her journey from India to the US, discussing the challenges of immigration, the importance of networking, and the need for greater diversity in engineering. She emphasizes the significance of mentorship and sponsorship in career development and highlights the need to inspire the next generation to pursue STEM fields. The conversation also touches on leadership lessons and the importance of clear communication in engineering roles.

Takeaways

• Grab opportunities when they arise.
• Immigrants face unique challenges in the workplace.
• Networking is crucial for career advancement.
• STEM interest among youth is declining.
• Diversity in the workplace leads to better decision-making.
• Sponsorship is essential for career growth.
• Speak up against injustices in the workplace.
• Clear communication is vital for engineers.
• Work-life balance is achievable with planning.
• Volunteering can provide perspective and fulfillment.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Aparna Subramanian's Journey

06:43 Visa Processes and Their Impact on Careers

12:33 Overcoming Gender Bias in Engineering

19:13 The Future of the Oil and Gas Industry and STEM Education

24:32 Diversity and Inclusion in Leadership

32:42 Work-Life Balance and Personal Growth

Keywords

Aparna Subramanian, oil and gas, engineering, gender diversity, STEM, networking, immigration, leadership, mentorship, career growth, energy, chemicals

In this conversation, Mehdy Touil, an LNG Specialist, shares his journey in the LNG industry, highlighting his background, career transitions, and expatriate challenges. He stresses humility, continuous learning, and LinkedIn's role in professional growth. Mehdy discusses LNG trends, mentorship importance, and offers advice for newcomers. He concludes with thoughts on industry biases and natural gas's role in the energy transition. Takeaways

Mehdy is an LNG operations specialist with over 20 years of experience. He emphasizes the importance of humility and asking for help in learning. Natural gas is considered a transition fuel and is here to stay. LinkedIn has been a powerful tool for Mehdy's professional growth. The LNG industry is experiencing significant growth, especially in the US. Mentorship is crucial for retaining knowledge in the industry. Mehdy's journey highlights the challenges faced by expatriates in the workforce. Listening is an underrated skill in the LNG industry. There is a high demand for LNG expertise globally. Mehdy believes that every experience, good or bad, shapes who we are.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Mehdy Touil and His Journey

02:47 Mehdi's Early Career and Breakthrough in LNG

07:07 Transitioning from Qatar to Global LNG Projects

10:59 Challenges Faced During Career Transitions

16:24 Current Trends and Future of the LNG Industry

22:50 Advice for Aspiring LNG Professionals

23:42 Building a Community on LinkedIn

26:28 The Journey into LNG Operations

28:19 Building a Community in the LNG Industry

30:56 Leveraging LinkedIn for Industry Insights

32:52 The Importance of Experience and Mentorship

35:34 Addressing Biases in the LNG Industry

37:25 Rapid Fire Round: Insights and Reflections

40:54 The Future of Natural Gas

Keywords LNG, natural gas, career journey, professional growth, industry insights, mentorship, LinkedIn, immigration, LNG projects, energy transition, oil and gas

In this conversation, John Hetherington shares his journey from the UK to Canada, discussing the importance of adaptability, customer collaboration, and the role of metrics in business success. He emphasizes the need for a holistic view in decision-making and the significance of aligning company goals with measurable outcomes. John also reflects on his personal experiences and the biases that can hinder effective problem-solving in the energy sector.

Takeaways

• Life's too short, we need to make a move.
• The best growth comes from when you start something new.
• It's not just about the data revenue, it's about that holistic vision.
• Customer collaboration is front and center.
• The enemy of good is perfection.
• You can fix any problem, but you can't fix every problem.
• The skills around technology development are very transferable.
• The best way to do that is tie metrics to it.
• Comparitis, you're comparing yourself to other people.
• The one, three, one problem-solving method is key.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to John Hetherington

09:27 Lessons from Early AI Projects

16:21 Digital Strategy Adoption in Energy Companies

21:23 Reflections on John's Journey

26:34 Rapid Fire Questions with John Hetherington

Keywords

energy, business growth, digital strategy, customer collaboration, adaptability, metrics, leadership, personal journey, decision making, oil and gas

In this episode, Javid Talib, a veteran in the oil and gas industry with over 50 years of experience shares his journey from a small town in India to becoming a leading figure in floating LNG technology at Black & Veatch. He discusses the challenges he faced, the importance of adaptability, and the future of the oil and gas industry amidst changing perceptions and the rise of renewable energy. Javid emphasizes the significance of networking and hard work in achieving success in this evolving field.

Takeaways

• Javid Talib has over 50 years of experience in the oil and gas industry.
• He transitioned from civil engineering to offshore engineering and floating LNG technology.
• Floating LNG technology is a significant innovation in the energy sector.
• Natural gas is considered a transitional fuel in the energy transition.
• The oil and gas industry is not going away; it will coexist with renewables for a long time.
• Networking and adaptability are crucial for success in the industry.
• Hard work and patience are essential for achieving long-term goals.
• The industry is undergoing significant changes, presenting new opportunities.
• Javid encourages professionals to embrace change and be resilient.
• Contributing to your network is as important as expanding it.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Javid Talib's Journey

07:39 Transition to the United States and Black & Veatch

15:48 Industry Changes and the Future of Energy

25:24 Embracing Change and Career Growth

30:49 Key Takeaways for Success in the Industry

Keywords

Javid Talib, oil and gas, floating LNG,FLNG, career journey, industry changes, networking, adaptability, energy transition

In this engaging conversation, Massiel Diez, Schlumberger and Co-Host of Flipping The Barrel Podcast shares her journey from immigrating to Canada to becoming a successful professional in the oil and gas industry. She discusses the biases she faced, the importance of representation, and how her background shaped her career. The discussion also covers the evolution of the industry, the significance of personal branding, the balance between work and personal life. Massiel emphasizes the need for self-reflection and the importance of taking charge of one's career path.

Takeaways

• Massiel immigrated to Canada for a better future.
• Representation in the industry is crucial for attracting talent.
• Alberta offers significant opportunities in the oil and gas sector.
• The oil and gas industry has evolved in terms of professionalism and safety.
• Personal branding is essential for career advancement.
• Work-life balance is achievable with the right priorities.
• Self-care is the foundation for being able to care for others.
• Networking is key to career success.
• The industry needs to market its positive contributions more effectively.
• Self-reflection is necessary to ensure you're on the right path.

Chapters 00:00 Introduction to a Trailblazer in Oil and Gas 07:36 Career Journey in the Oil Field 15:59 The Impact of Flipping The Barrel Podcast 23:05 Personal Branding and Career Growth 32:07 The Importance of Personal Branding Keywords oil and gas, personal branding, career growth, diversity, industry evolution, self-discovery, work-life balance, immigrant experience, engineering, podcasting, Flipping The Barrel, Podcast