Explore every episode of the podcast The Land Department
Dive into the complete episode list for The Land Department. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.
Rows per page:
50
1–50 of 63
Title
Pub. Date
Duration
063 - Division Orders 101: How Royalty Owners Get Paid with Rebekah Stringer
17 Jun 2026
01:00:18
Every royalty check starts with work most people never see. After a lease is signed and a well starts producing, someone has to review title, build the deck, and make sure every owner's decimal interest adds up to a perfect 1.0 before anyone gets paid. That someone is a division order analyst, one of the most important and least understood roles in the land business.
Rebekah Stringer, President of the Houston Association of Division Order Analysts and a division order supervisor with twelve years in the field, joins Brent and Khalil for a ground-up tour of the land back office. She walks through the full lifecycle from title review to payment, explains suspense and escheat, and gets into the people side of the job: owner relations, what stays in-house versus what gets outsourced, and how the next generation finds its way into a profession most people stumble into by accident.
Key Topics & Timestamps
00:46 - Back Office Matters
02:33 - Rebekah's Career Path
06:46 - Inside Division Order Work
12:15 - Division Orders and Suspense
24:11 - Escheat and Finding Owners
31:00 - Licensing Tiers and Costs
32:02 - PI Tools and Ethics
33:57 - Outsourcing Division Order Work
41:45 - Clean Handoffs and Spreadsheet Reality
52:27 - Talent Pipeline
Memorable Quotes
"Make it add up to 1.0." — Rebekah
"Handling owners is a huge part of what we do." — Rebekah
"It's not just getting people paid, it's making sure you've got everything papered up and documented properly." — Brent
"Nobody really knows what a division order analyst is, or even that we exist." — Rebekah
Key Takeaways
The back office is where royalty owners actually get paid. After a lease is signed and a well comes online, the division order team reviews title, builds the deck, confirms every interest adds up to 1.0, and sends out division orders so owners can go into pay.
A clean handoff that adds up to 1.0 makes everything easier. When an in-house landman hands over a division of interest that totals exactly 1.0, the division order team can set up the well and get owners paid without untangling a title problem first.
Owners carry the responsibility to keep their records current. Operators can't pay or update an owner they don't know about, so address changes, sales, and deaths all sit with the owner to report. That's why suspense exists and why empathetic owner relations matter so much.
Some work has to stay in-house. Well setups, deck setups, and complex transfers carry too much downstream risk to outsource. Owner relations, pay code changes, and escheat support are safer to hand off when a team needs to flex up.
The profession faces a talent gap, and associations are the way in. Most analysts found the field by accident, and experienced analysts are retiring with their knowledge. Groups like NADOA and HADOA offer the trainings, mentorship, and networking that bring new people in.
062 - Powering the AI Boom: Natural Gas, Data Centers, and the Land Beneath It with Peter Snell
05 Jun 2026
00:54:29
AI gets all the headlines, but the data centers behind it don't run without fuel. Natural gas is a huge part of that story, and so is the land underneath it. Peter Snell, founder and CEO of PetroVybe, joins Brent and Khalil to explain how he's building a natural gas company designed for the AI era from the ground up.
They dig into why so much Permian gas stays trapped, why PetroVybe operates where the infrastructure already exists, and how a 10-year asset strategy gets built one acquisition at a time. Peter also breaks down how landmen can use AI as a daily planning tool, what data center developers keep getting wrong about mineral rights and right of way, and why planning for failure is part of the model. It's a practical look at where energy, technology, and land work all meet.
Key Timestamps
01:06 - Why Data Centers Matter
04:12 - PetroVybe Origin Story
08:02 - Permian Gas Bottlenecks
15:40 - Building a 10-Year Asset Base
20:14 - AI Limits and Landman Playbook
32:32 - Data Centers Land Pitfalls
40:42 - Ten-Year Pivots And Stewardship
47:01 - AI Future Trades Wrap Up
Memorable Quotes
"AI centers don't exist without fuel, and I think that's often missed in the public eye." — Peter
"AI's not here to take your job. AI's here to make your job easier so we can do more with you and not hire five more landmen." — Peter
"A landman is not going anywhere." — Brent
"Get comfortable with being uncomfortable with learning about those new things." — Peter
Key Takeaways
AI data centers run on natural gas. The public conversation focuses on AI capabilities, but the compute can't run without fuel. Natural gas is core to powering the buildout, and that puts land and mineral work at the center of the story.
The Permian has gas, but it's trapped. The infrastructure is built for oil, not gas, so much of the supply can't reach market profitably. PetroVybe operates in South and East Texas where the takeaway capacity actually exists.
East Texas land is a people business. Heirship, complicated title, smaller parcels, and hundreds of mineral owners per project make East Texas a different challenge than the contract-driven Permian. That complexity is exactly where landmen add value.
Landmen can use AI as a daily planning tool. Feed Claude or ChatGPT your local context, test it against the macro trends, and build a 30-day, 12-month, and 24-month plan. The goal is to understand the connection points, not become an expert in everything.
Data center developers keep skipping the land work. Sites get bought without checking mineral exposure, interconnection queue status, or right of way. The deal looks easy until the dirt underneath turns into a problem.
About Our Guest
Peter Snell is the founder and CEO of PetroVybe, a natural gas development company built for the AI era. After more than a decade as a management consultant and business fixer, Peter moved into oil and gas and now leads a team focused on natural gas, long-term investor protection, and biblical stewardship.
053 - When Landmen Get Sued: Legal Survival Guide with Lee Carr & Brian Wittpenn
16 Oct 2025
00:50:55
After 24 years as a landman, host Brent Broussard finally faced his first deposition—and it opened his eyes to how unprepared most landmen are for litigation. Oil and gas attorneys Lee Carr and Brian Wittpenn share street-smart strategies for avoiding lawsuits, handling depositions, and protecting yourself when litigation becomes inevitable.
What You’ll Learn
Why avoiding litigation entirely is impossible (and the only foolproof method)
Essential documentation practices that can save or sink your case
How to handle agency disclosure requirements without killing deals
What to do immediately when served with a lawsuit or subpoena
Communication strategies that protect you in adversarial situations
Time Stamps
00:57 - Episode & Guest Intro
01:37 - Landmen and Lawsuits
02:58 - Avoiding Litigation as a Landman
05:07 - Contract Disputes and Settlements
07:35 - Deposition Costs and Realities
09:54 - Ethics and Best Practices
11:54 - Agency and Disclosure
18:51 - Documentation and Process
23:26 - Offers and Counter Offers
26:12 - Importance of Termination Dates in Offers
28:01 - Handling Legal Trouble: Initial Steps
35:09 - Understanding Subpoenas and Document Retention
40:41 - Best Practices for Professional Communication
42:46 - File Retention
47:48 - Episode Takeaways
49:38 - Episode Outro
Snippets from the Episode
"Really, the only foolproof way to not get sued as a landman is to not be a landman. Outside of that, anybody can sue anybody for anything."— Lee Carr
"Just a simple deposition—you're clicking off at probably an eight to ten thousand dollar bill leaving there, and then the transcript's going to be $800 to $1,000."— Lee Carr
"Dance as if nobody's watching, but text and email as if it'll be read aloud in court one day."— Lee Carr
"The best thing is don't ignore it. Litigation's not like a cold that just goes away if you try to ride it out."— Lee Carr
Key Takeaways
Litigation avoidance is impossible—focus on risk mitigation
Clear agency disclosure protects against liability exposure
Document everything but qualify your work product limitations
Professional communication standards prevent costly mistakes
Immediate legal counsel engagement when litigation hits
Ready to protect your land projects with integrated legal and title support? Our Dudley Select Title division works seamlessly with experienced oil and gas counsel to keep your deals on track and defensible. Contact us to learn how our complete energy partnership approach includes the legal expertise that matters when stakes are high.
052 - What Can One Landowner Conversation Change About Your Career? with David Dachner
25 Sep 2025
00:58:10
Veteran landman David Dachner shares his remarkable career journey, from having $1,000 to his name to building a multi-million-dollar oil and gas portfolio in the Austin Chalk. This candid conversation reveals how integrity, relationship-building, and strategic persistence transformed both his professional success and personal mission to give back through philanthropy in Honduras and personal development programs.
What You’ll Learn
How to build lasting success through integrity and authentic relationships with landowners
Strategic approaches to surviving oil industry downturns and market cycles
The power of specializing in one geological formation for long-term profitability
How personal transformation can enhance rather than compromise professional success
Practical wisdom for balancing career ambition with meaningful impact
Time Stamps
00:49 Episode & Guest Intro
02:45 David's Early Life and Career Beginnings
07:02 Navigating the Oil Industry in the 80s
09:36 Challenges and Successes in Amarillo
19:53 The Importance of Integrity and Relationships
27:56 The Fast-Paced Culture of America
28:45 Building Trust and Rapport as a Landman
31:24 The Importance of Giving Back
33:04 Discovery Programs and Personal Transformation
36:36 The Abundant Life Foundation in Honduras
41:38 Balancing Career and Philanthropy
45:04 A Life-Changing Epiphany
49:25 The Journey of Personal and Professional Growth
52:52 Creating a Culture of Integrity and Purpose
56:49 Episode Outro
Snippets from the Episode
"I always believed in the quality of life, not the quantity of life. I feel number one is I think we are, first of all, a giving industry."— David Dachner
"I went through this program, and one night they said, 'I want you to write 10 pages on what your life is going to be like if you don't get what you want.' I woke up at five o'clock in the morning, and I had a spiritual epiphany where I encountered what I believed to be the Christ in my room. It changed my heart, and I gave my life to him that day."— David Dachner
"Find the purpose in what you're doing. Find the why. Why are you doing it? You know how to do it and what you're doing, but why are you doing it?"— David Dachner
Key Takeaways
Austin Chalk Specialization Strategy
Integrity-Based Relationship Building
Surviving Industry Downturns Through Persistence
Balancing Professional Success with Personal Mission
The Roy Landowner Generosity Story
Personal Transformation at Age 41
Creating Culture Through Purpose-Driven Leadership
Ready to hear more landman success stories and industry insights? Subscribe to The Land Department podcast and connect with us on LinkedIn. Know a landman with an inspiring story? Send us their name - we're building a library of industry biographies that showcase the incredible people in our business.
051 - How Do You Build the Next Generation of Energy Professionals? with Kellie Estes & Jeremy Martin
21 Aug 2025
00:53:24
Texas Tech Energy Commerce faculty Kellie Estes and Jeremy Martin join us for an in-depth look at how one of the industry's premier energy education programs prepares students for careers spanning oil & gas, renewables, and commercial energy markets. From their rigorous capstone projects to alumni networks that span decades, discover what makes Tech graduates stand out and how the program has evolved to meet today's diverse energy landscape.
What You’ll Learn
How Texas Tech's Energy Commerce program has evolved beyond traditional landman training to cover the full energy spectrum
The admission requirements and curriculum structure that makes Energy Commerce one of the most challenging business majors
Why work ethic and communication skills trump perfect grades in building successful energy careers
How capstone projects simulate real-world deal-making from asset acquisition through production
The role of alumni networks and industry partnerships in student success and program development
Time Stamps
00:41 - Episode & Guest Intro
02:04 - Kelly's Journey with Energy Commerce
04:30 - Jeremy's Return to Lubbock
08:19 - Energy Commerce Program Overview
13:20 - Team Building and Capstone Projects
19:28 - Alumni Involvement and Industry Relevance
23:50 - Evolving Curriculum and Industry Shifts
26:18 - Characteristics of Successful Students
28:12 - Changes in the Program Over the Years
30:02 - Preparing Students for Renewable Energy
31:53 - Internship Opportunities and Expectations
35:07 - Balancing Traditional and Modern Education
38:38 - Maintaining High Standards and Enrollment
42:27 - Embracing AI and Technological Advancements
51:19 - Conclusion and Contact Information
Snippets from the Episode
"We give them a 12 to 18 month head start, and after that it's up to them to keep learning, to keep progressing, but we give them that foundation."— Kellie Estes
"Work ethic is always the top for me. We've had many students come through here that have been C students and gone on to have a great career because they think outside the box."— Jeremy Martin
"There's so many different opportunities in this industry. There's a place for everyone."— Kellie Estes
"AI is only as good as the person being able to use it or disseminate the information."— Jeremy Martin
"Land work is land work. You gotta have it, whether it's oil and gas, a solar farm, a wind farm, whatever. The basics that we teach them, that's going to translate over into either side of it."— Jeremy Martin
050 - Permitting CCS Injection Wells: Navigating the Legal and Regulatory Maze with Jerry Walrath & KC McAdam
08 Aug 2025
00:56:52
Summary
Texas moves closer to primacy for carbon capture and sequestration projects as legal frameworks evolve and landmen navigate an increasingly complex regulatory landscape. Our expert guests break down the latest developments in CCS permitting, pore space ownership, and the practical challenges of putting these massive projects together in today's market.
What You’ll Learn
Current status of Texas primacy for CCS well permitting and expected timeline
How pore space ownership varies between Texas and Louisiana
Why large contiguous properties remain essential for CCS project success
The role of unitization and integration in future CCS development
Pipeline challenges that could make or break project economics
Legal considerations around plume migration and potential tort issues
Time Stamps
01:00 - Episode & Guest Introductions
03:00 - Primacy in Texas
06:00 - Primacy in Other States
13:00 - Challenges and Considerations in Louisiana
33:00 - Challenges in Securing Agreements for Carbon Capture
34:00 - Cost and Timeline of Carbon Capture Projects
35:00 - Legal Considerations in Carbon Capture
39:00 - Unitization and Integration in Carbon Capture
47:00 - Pipeline Challenges in Carbon Capture
Snippets from the Episode
"The state agency that's been responsible for administering the rules for oil and gas development and has this huge store of knowledge is now going to administer the rules for carbon capture, which is something of an inverse process to oil and gas development."— Jerry Walrath
"One of the biggest things that I find day to day that is consuming my time is you have a lack of regulation, and you have a lot of first-of-kind commercial arrangements because you're joining groups together that have not been joined before into what looks kind of like a traditional oil and gas transaction."— KC McAdam
"In Louisiana, you're gonna flip that on its head - the surface owner owns the pore space, but there may be oil and gas activity, you're gonna want to make sure that you're covering yourself from the other angle."— KC McAdam
Key Takeaways
Texas Primacy Progress - MOA Signed, But Timeline Uncertain
Pore Space Ownership Varies Significantly by State
Large Contiguous Properties Remain Essential for Early Projects
Unitization Rules Needed for Future CCS Development
Pipeline Economics Can Make or Break Project Viability
Legal Frameworks Still Evolving Around Plume Migration
First-of-Kind Commercial Arrangements Create New Challenges
Ready to navigate the evolving CCS landscape? Whether you're working on carbon capture projects or need expertise across traditional and renewable energy development, Dudley Land Company brings 45+ years of energy expertise to every project. From pore space agreements to pipeline corridors, we're your complete energy partner with integrated solutions that keep projects on time and on budget.
Visit us at dudleylandcompany.com or connect with our team to discuss how our experience in both oil and gas and emerging energy sectors can support your next project.
049 - Summer Cocktail Hour: Team Updates, Recruitment Challenges, and 2025 Industry Trends
24 Jul 2025
00:46:31
We talk team growth, recruitment struggles, and the trends shaping the next wave of energy projects. From promotions and new hires to the ongoing challenge of finding top talent, the conversation sheds light on what’s happening behind the scenes. With humor and real-world insights, Brent, Brandon, and Steve share how they’re adapting to a busy, ever-changing market.
Time Stamps
01:00 - Episode Intro
03:30 - Company Announcements and Promotions
06:45 - New Hires and Team Updates
10:17 - Conferences Golf Tournaments
16:22 - Industry Activity and Market Trends
20:57- Renewable Energy Outlook
21:24 - Data Centers and Energy Integration
23:51 - Challenges in Staffing and Recruitment
33:31 - Regional Differences in Landman Sourcing
41:25 - Summer Plans and Future Outlook
Snippets from the Episode
"All of a sudden, you’re seeing a shift from ‘oil and gas is bad and green is good’ to ‘now we need oil and gas.’ Data centers might be the bridge that brings everyone together." -Steve
"If you’re starting to look for landmen when you need to staff a job, you’re already too late. You have to be aggressive and proactive to keep good people on your projects." -Brent
“We’re definitely seeing a little uptick in new energy projects like hydrogen, lithium, and geothermal, which is a great opportunity for landmen to adapt and grow.” -Brandon
048 - Behind the Scenes at Dudley: Scaling, Staffing, and Tech Innovations
10 Jul 2025
00:44:32
How do you scale teams, develop leaders, and stay ahead of AI changes? From staffing shortages in division order roles to implementing quarterly "rocks" for execution, this behind-the-scenes look covers the real challenges of running land projects in today's market.
Time Stamps
00:51 - Episode Intro
01:31 - New Projects and Kickoff Calls
03:10 - Due Diligence and Planning
08:45 - In-House Services and Staffing Challenges
16:06 - Leadership Transition & Development
19:42 - Effective Delegation and Team Building
21:40 - Implementing Company-Wide Initiatives
22:40 - Team Growth and Community Involvement
23:36 - Implementing Lean Principles
26:02 - Scaling Up with Rocks
32:12 - AI in Title Examination
37:48 - Kudu Land System
Snippets from the Episode
The real power is gonna come when you can take an AI and have it retrieve and combine information from your brokerage land system with your in-house system and your well files and lease analysis, and all those things. When it can marry all that seamlessly, that's when you're gonna really see the power, and when you can prompt it accordingly. -Brent
Team building is not about the trust falls; it's about understanding what your strengths and weaknesses are, being able to read what other people's strengths and weaknesses are, and how to communicate with those people. How do you take ownership as a project manager to ensure that every time you fire up something new, it's not a new experience, right? It's just a new scenario, and you're applying those tactics. -Brent
How do you elevate your team? Sometimes, elevating your team is delegating and letting go of some of the things that you're doing that you're not doing as well as you should be. -Brent
047 - Conversations with a Leader: Teaching, Leading, and Learning in the Energy Space with Nancy McCaskell
19 Jun 2025
01:00:28
From being a VP of Land at 26, to teaching high school English, to leading a national energy association — Nancy McCaskell’s journey is anything but ordinary. In this episode, she shares powerful lessons on leadership, resilience, and how to inspire the next generation.
Time Stamps
00:52 - Episode & Guest Intro
03:39 - Nancy's Career Beginnings
07:09 - VP of Land at 26
11:59 - Transition to Teaching
13:09 - Leadership and Mentorship
22:35 - The Importance of Trust and Authenticity
26:44 - Challenges and Growth
28:59 - Building Relationships and Delegation
31:02 - The Importance of Honest Feedback
33:59 - Philanthropy and Community Involvement
37:57 - Leadership and Career Development
40:17 - The Role of AAPL in Supporting Landmen
46:30 - Governmental Affairs and Lobbying Efforts
50:42 - Adapting to the Evolving Energy Sector
54:05 - The Importance of Education and Networking
57:50 - Reflections on a Year as AAPL President
59:31 - Closing Remarks and Future Plans
Snippets from the Episode
“ Energy is a rollercoaster business, and we have to make certain that people understand that. But it's a good business, it goes from the practical to things that no one thinks about every day, like national security and energy, and where's that gonna go, and what part do you play.” -Nancy McCaskell
”Living it every day. It is the same practices and principles. The terminology changes a little bit, but land work is land work. We live it. Land work is land work.” -Patrick Durman
“ There's so much to it, and it's ever evolving. We're always gonna need energy. There's, there's, there's no denying that. We gotta have more electric utilities. We've gotta have more pipeline.” -Brent Broussard
”Somebody had to buy those right-of-ways, and that's us. Somebody had to be able to go out and get permission to do that, and that's us. We're landmen, we do that. We don't drill the wells, but we make it possible. That makes me proud of what we do.” -Nancy McCaskell
046 - Energy Leadership Lessons: Feedback, Focus, and Building Teams That Last with Zack Oliva
30 May 2025
01:02:22
How do successful leaders balance work and personal life while building incredible teams? Join Brent Broussard and Zack Oliva as they share their experiences and lessons on energy leadership.
Time Stamps
00:41 - Episode & Guest Intro
03:41 - Elevating Leadership Through Perspective
10:18 - Importance of Feedback and Communication
19:06 - Balancing Work and Personal Life
24:29 - Encouraging Work-Life Balance in the Team
25:47 - Priorities and Focus
27:11 - Building Systems for Idea Management
29:05 - Challenges in Execution
36:21 - Team Structures and Leadership Development
38:19 - Creating a Culture of Appreciation
42:03 - Effective Communication and Team Dynamics
44:47 - Traits of Successful Team Players
50:24 - Client Relationships and Success
56:38 - Leadership and Personal Growth
01:02:08 - Zack Oliva's Contact Details
Snippets from the Episode
"I find with people issues, and leadership issues, and sometimes strategic issues, it's better to just take a step back for a little bit and try and get that altitude." -Zack
"I think of weekends as my reward for a week, a week I worked hard at. I think of it as a precondition for me to be able to show up on Monday and perform with a team." -Zack
"The worst thing you can do is look down upon someone you're asking to work for you." -Brent
" You're only as good as the people you work with." -Brent
045 - Inside Kudu: The Land Management Suite Transforming Land Work with Brandon Dodds
15 May 2025
00:30:19
Discover how Kudu is transforming land management! Learn how this revolutionary suite is streamlining processes, improving accuracy, and saving time and money. Tune in!
Time Stamps
02:00 - Episode & Guest Intro
02:46 - Historical Land Management Practices
04:25 - Transition to Digital Databases
05:24 - Advantages of Using Databases
07:17 - Kudu Suite 101
15:26 - Generating Reports with Kudu
17:40 - Client Access and Project Setup
19:59 - Understanding Working Interest with Kudu
22:26 - Client Success Stories
26:51 - Upcoming Features and Contact Information
28:56 - Episode Outro
Snippets from the Episode
“ When I first started, everything pretty much was on paper. Now, with Kudu, it's an expansive, web-based system, so it's gonna be a lot easier for our contractors to utilize it, for our clients to jump in and access it. So, we're excited about it. It’s growing every day.” -Brandon Dodds
Kudu is very capable of helping micromanage leasing and acquisition projects, and you can get a very good sense of what's happening because all the activity that we do is built into the system.” -Brandon Dodds
044 - Leadership and Legacy in Renewables with Abigail Hopper
01 May 2025
00:45:55
Dive into an inspiring conversation with industry powerhouse Abigail Hopper as she shares her journey of leadership, authenticity, and tackling legislative challenges. Discover how her candid approach is shaping the future of renewable energy.
Time Stamps
01:12 - Episode & Guest Intro
03:13 - Legislation Impacting the Renewable Energy Sector
13:24 - The Power of Vulnerability and Authentic Leadership
18:59 - Challenges in Being Vulnerable on LinkedIn
27:30 - Navigating Hardships and Personal Growth
29:51 - Upcoming Events and Industry Insights
32:41 - Empowering Women in the Industry
Snippets from the Episode
“It's so clear that solar and storage are making such a huge impact on the Texas economy. But in some ways, perhaps that's our challenge, that it's so clear that solar and storage are making such an impact on the Texas economy, that there are a lot of folks who would like to stop us in our tracks.” -Abigail Hopper
”I think that when we're able to let people truly see us, you get more of a buy-in from them, and that's where I see clients that become friends and people that I see at the conferences who I'm genuinely excited to see.” -Natalie Johns
When things aren't working, you can acknowledge it and say, “You know what? We haven't figured out this communication pathway. This message is not landing. This lobbying effort doesn't seem to be taking off. Let's reevaluate it.” Like, there is a freedom that comes from just being able to say the hard thing and acknowledge difficult situations.” -Abigail Hopper
061 - Legacy Series: What 39 Years in Land Looks Like with Kenneth Knott
20 May 2026
00:58:31
Kenneth Knott didn't set out to become a landman. His engineering plans got derailed by the 1985 downturn, a friend pulled him into petroleum land management at UL Lafayette, and an ARCO internship hooked him for life. Thirty-nine years later, he just wrapped up a career that included over 25 years at SM Energy, billions in transactions, and a leadership style that kept landmen with him for decades.
Brent sits down with Kenneth for a Legacy Series conversation on what longevity in land actually requires. They cover surviving downturns, building team cultures where servant leadership is lived, not just talked, the mentors who shaped him, what separates good landmen from great ones, and his honest take on what AI means for the next generation of land professionals.
Key Topics & Timestamps
00:45 - Episode & Guest Intro
03:10 - How Kenneth Became A Landman
07:44 - Surviving Downturns And Longevity
10:25 - Leadership Culture And Team Building
17:13 - Big Lessons, Deals, and Mentors
29:31 - The Mentors Behind Kenneth Knott
38:19 - What Makes A Great Landman
49:06 - Retirement Reflections And Next Gen
Memorable Quotes
"Our goal is not to make you one of the best landmen. Our goal is to make you one of the best oil and gas professionals." — Kenneth
Key Takeaways
Servant leadership has to be lived, not just talked. Talking about servant values doesn't move the needle. Build the culture by aligning every hire on values, treating mistakes as lessons, and making the person next to you better every day.
Control what you can, accept what you can't, and keep grinding. Surviving downturns in land work isn't about predicting cycles. It's about your work ethic, your willingness to do what others won't, and your focus on what's actually in your hands.
Hire for values first, skills second. SM Energy's culture didn't happen by accident. Recruiting was deliberate about finding people who shared the values, because alignment is what lets you have hard conversations when things get rough.
Aim to build great oil and gas professionals, not just great landmen. The best landmen understand the breadth of the business. Get curious in engineering, accounting, and marketing meetings. Over the long run, that's what separates the great from the merely competent.
Internal networking beats external networking for deal-making. Knowing who to call inside your own company turns regular deals into great ones. The dumb question to a counterpart in another department is often the difference between a clean close and a problem nobody saw coming.
AI is a force multiplier, but it can't replace technical foundation. The next generation of landmen has speed, curiosity, and access to tools landmen never had. The risk is taking AI output at face value without the technical baseline to QC it.
About Our Guest
Kenneth Knott is a 39-year veteran of the oil and gas land business and the recently retired Vice President of Land and Business Development at SM Energy, where he spent more than 25 years. He started his career at ARCO and Vastar before joining SM Energy (formerly St. Mary Land & Exploration), and oversaw billions in transactions, including SM's repositioning out of the Rockies and into the Permian Basin with the QStar, Rock Oil, and Laredo acquisitions. Known industry-wide as "KK," he built a reputation for cultivating long-tenured land teams through a servant-leadership culture rooted in Louisiana grit and decades of field experience.
Dive into the world of geothermal with Brent Broussard and industry expert Jason Peart. From traditional systems to next-gen innovations, explore how geothermal could revolutionize our energy solutions.
Time Stamps
00:55 Episode & Guest Intro
02:49 Understanding Geothermal Technology
03:38 Next-Gen Geothermal Innovations
10:24 Scaling and Economic Viability
14:03 Regulatory and Market Considerations
26:31 Challenges in Adapting Oil & Gas Wells for Geothermal
28:15 Sage's Test Well and Casing Size Considerations
35:15 Ownership and Regulatory Aspects of Geothermal Energy
46:24 Future of Geothermal: Storage vs. Direct Power Generation
Snippets from the Episode
“Some of these oil and gas companies are starting to invest in the geothermal space through new entrants like Sage, and others as well, because it's a clear parallel to the work they're doing.” -Jason Peart
”We know the heat is underground wherever you go. We know with modern drilling technologies, we can drill to most of these depths, and we know we can create our own reservoirs to access this heat.” -Jason Peart
Join Brent Broussard and Colin Westmoreland as they delve into the journey of Enverus in shaping the future of land data, innovative mapping techniques, and how technology like generative AI is revolutionizing the energy sector. Tune in to find out how to stay ahead in the ever-evolving world of energy tech!
Time Stamps
01:10 - Episode & Guest Intro
04:37 - The Genesis of Drilling Info and Enverus
06:45 - Innovations in Land Data and Mapping
09:28 - Scaling and Differentiating in a Competitive Market
21:32 - Current State and Future of Enverus
27:13 - Expansion into Renewables
28:52- Underutilized Features of Prism
31:29 - Challenges in Digital Transformation
33:46 - Generative AI and Its Impact
39:48 - Innovations in Land Data Management
44:39 - Future of AI in Business
54:10 - Episode Outro
Snippets from the Episode
We have to continue to innovate. We build things, we sell things, but we have to identify and make sure we're looking at what the problems are going to be tomorrow. And are we solving for those problems tomorrow? -Colin Westmoreland
If you don't evolve and you don't get in front, you won't scale. -Colin Westmoreland
Everybody has to understand that generative Ai isn't going out and solving problems that we couldn't solve. It's just reducing that time to value gap, right? -Colin Westmoreland
If you're going to be in this business, you better be a survivor and you better adapt. That's kind of the story of a landman. -Brent Broussard
041 - The Problem of Energy Transition with Dr. Michelle Foss
27 Feb 2025
01:04:12
Dr. Michelle Foss breaks down the intricate web of energy transition, what it means for the future of resources, and the role of the U.S. in the global mining landscape. Don't miss this deep dive into a critical topic!
Time Stamps
00:58 - Episode & Guest Intro
02:32 - Dr. Foss' Background and Career Journey
08:32 - Historical Context of Energy and Mining
14:19 - Challenges in Modern Energy Projects
17:09 - Global Supply Chains and Material Dependencies
21:47 - Realities of Energy Transition Costs
25:20 - Voter Sentiments and Policy Implications
27:14 - Commercial Viability of Energy Projects
29:34 - Future of Energy and Land Management
33:31 - Technological Innovations and Industry Improvements
"The whole idea that you could do this and the energy transition would be cheap was probably bad advertising because it's not, it's expensive. -Dr. Michelle Foss
“We've been saying for years the wind and solar businesses need to grow up for crying out loud.” -Dr. Michelle Foss
”Renewable, I hate that word because nothing is renewable.” -Dr. Michelle Foss
”What a lot of people have come to realize is that that magical phrase, energy transition, you don't get that unless you have a materials transition.” -Dr. Michelle Foss
040 - CPA for Independent Landmen with Josh Mullins
13 Feb 2025
00:52:15
Discover how to streamline your financial operations as an independent landman with practical tips from CPA Josh Mullins. From establishing the right business entity to the best practices in bookkeeping, this episode is packed with invaluable advice!
"Keep your expenses and your income separate for business purposes. Open you up a business bank account and your revenue gets deposited into that bank account." -Josh Mullins
"If you're going to do this work as an independent contractor for years to come, get it set up right from the beginning.' - Brent Broussard
"As an independent, you're a business owner. Everyone who steps into that role has to understand they're assuming a whole new level of responsibility when it comes to their financial management because there's not anybody doing it for you anymore." -Josh Mullins
039 - Hollywood Landman Critiques with the AAPL Landman TV Series Companion Podcast
30 Jan 2025
00:32:57
Ever wondered what Hollywood gets right and wrong about landmen? In this special episode, we share the “Landman Now: Landman TV Series Companion Podcast” where Chad Smith, Jodi Gallegos, Robert Rice, and our very own Brent Broussard sit down to review the episode 8 of the Landman series on Paramount Plus. Don't miss these insider critiques and stories!
Time Stamps
00:00 - Episode Intro
01:02 - Guests Intro
02:44 - Discussing Episode 8: Rebecca vs. Cooper
05:34 - Legal Realities vs. Hollywood Dramatization
06:39 - Negotiation Tactics in the Land Profession
"Most of the attorneys I've met on gas are real good people. So I don't want that misconception getting too far out there." -Chad Smith
"It's a tough industry to be in, because when it's good, it's great. When it's bad, it's bad." - Robert Rice
"I always tell a lot of our landmen and people we work with, when you're involved in something, what you say and what you do can always come back. But until you're involved in that, you don't really know." - Brent Broussard
"It's been eye-opening and educational to hear how it really happens." - Jodi Gallegos
038 - What Happens After the Mergers with Bracewell
16 Jan 2025
01:00:19
Gain insights on the evolving landscape of energy mergers from seasoned experts at Bracewell. Discover the dynamics of investor trust, capital stewardship, and the future outlook in this must-listen episode.
Time Stamps
01:12 - Episode Intro
02:14 - Market Trends and Investment Shifts
08:26 - Investor Trust and Capital Stewardship
08:55 - Family Offices and Private Equity Dynamics
09:41 - Role of Public Companies and Global Demand Dynamics
10:55 - Bracewell's Energy Transactions and Clientele
13:00 - Midstream Mergers and Contractual Challenges
18:44 - Post-Merger Asset Management and Future Outlook
37:46 - Back to the Drawing Board: Reevaluating PSAs and Exhibits
38:37 - Understanding the PSA: Key Elements and Common Pitfalls
42:36 - The Importance of Early Involvement in Due Diligence
46:21 - Navigating Land Due Diligence: Best Practices and Strategies
52:09 - Water Rights and Contracts: Key Considerations
"A lot of these transactions where a company is going out and acquiring either, whether they're profit equity backed or they're merging merger of equals, a lot of what we see from the midstream perspective on those types of mergers is a checkerboard pattern of crossed over dedications and midstream capacity." -John Stavinoha
"As these companies consolidate and get bigger, they're seeking out efficiencies and cost savings and they're also going through a reprioritization of their inventory stack. And so, some of that's taking a little bit longer. There's a lot that goes into a lot of these large scale mergers." -Austin Lee
"One of the things that we could hopefully see down the line is, know, gas assets, hopefully coming back into the picture." -Austin Lee
"The more proactive a client can be with reaching out to their support teams, whether it be on the legal side or on the land side, the better." -Brent Broussard
Are we setting up the next generation of field landmen for success? Tune in to our latest discussion about empowering young talent and redefining paths in land management. Let's shape a thriving future together!
Grab your favorite holiday drink and join us for a festive Christmas Cocktail Hour! In this special episode, we’re wrapping up 2024, sharing our holiday plans, and giving you an exclusive sneak peek at what’s in store for 2025.
Time Stamps
00:31 - Whiskey Talk and Holiday Reflections
05:55 - College Football
09:51 - Favorite Podcast Episodes of the Year
10:43 - Dudley Staffing and Business Growth
14:44 - New Team Members
16:20 - Annual Planning and Growth Mindset
19:58 - Podcast Shoutouts and Future Topics
21:15 - Dudley Christmas Newsletter
25:16 - End of Year Reflections and Future Plans
30:48 - Upcoming Podcast Guests and Exciting Topics
36:36 - Holiday Plans
Snippets from the Episode
"This is the busiest I can remember the end of the year. Our guys are swamped. That's a great sign. It doesn't seem to be slowing down any time in 2025." -Steve Carr
"It was a good year, looking back. Great hires this year. We still need to hire some more. We've got that growth mentality, with scaling up and, you know, how can we be better? And we're seeing the fruits of that." -Brent Broussard
"It's worked out really well. It's gotten us a lot more organized and growth-minded. Growing our company, growing our knowledge, growing our employees. I mean, it's really full spectrum. -Brandon Ward
035 - 2024 Wrap Up: Pending Cases, Administration Changes, & Texas’ New Business Court with Brad Gibbs
10 Dec 2024
00:52:53
Get the inside scoop on the landmark legal cases shaping the energy industry! This episode with Brad Gibbs dives into Texas' new business court, admin changes, and more. Don't miss these hot takes!
Time Stamps
00:37 - Episode & Guest Intro
01:43 - Oliva Gibbs Updates
02:56 - Key Legal Cases of 2024
03:47 - Adverse Possession Case Analysis
06:46 - Washout Cases and Implications
11:34 - NPRI Burdens and Allocation Wells
12:46 - Core Space Ownership in Salt Mines
15:57 - Lithium Extraction and Legalities
24:15 - Expanding Lease Language for Emerging Minerals
26:17 - Royalty Disputes and Future Outlook
28:00 - Navigating Emerging Concepts in Energy
29:04 - Speculation and Agreements in the Energy Sector
30:33 - Impact of Administration on Energy Development
33:02 - Natural Gas and Market Dynamics
35:09 - Consolidation Trends in the Energy Industry
39:48 - Renewable Energy and Infrastructure Challenges
42:08 - Legal Aspects of Co-Development Projects
46:07 - Texas Business Courts and Energy Litigation
"We've seen our transactional practice, our litigation practice, grow in the last year. So that's been very exciting to be able to add sort of that additional value to our clients." -Brad Gibbs
One of the things I'd love to see the administration do is get behind more infrastructure buildouts. Yeah, solar projects are sexy and great, but you got to be able to get that energy to the grid in an efficient, and effective manner." - Brent Broussard
"I think it's a good time to be an oil and gas firm and a good time to be a broker. I think we all just want to make hay while the sun's shining." - Brad Gibbs
034 - Texas Oilman's Hall of Fame with Jonathan Grammer
14 Nov 2024
00:56:34
Join Brent Broussard and Jonathan Grammer as they delve into a comprehensive conversation about the complexities and evolving nature of land management in the energy sector.
"We live in challenging times, but that doesn't mean they need to be defeated. it just means minds have to get a lot sharper, more creative." - Jonathan Grammer
"The best way to prevent a fire is to not let it start." - Brent Broussard
"I think it's going to be a ride. And you better try to get on the front row seat so that you can be proactive about where you position yourself as a landman or energy professional." - Brent Broussard
"We live in a development period, not a wildcat period. Acreage matters way more today." - Jonathan Grammer
"The biggest challenge is going to be proof of concept." - Jonathan Grammer
"Money is going to get impatient. People are going to get impatient. Legislators are going to get impatient. And the people that are going to benefit right now are those that have their minds fixed on 2030." - Jonathan Grammer
060 - AI in the Land Business: Policies, Agents, and What's Next
30 Apr 2026
00:40:35
Every landman is asking the same question right now: what do you actually do with AI? You've watched conference rooms argue about it, you've watched coworkers paste client emails into ChatGPT, and you still don't have a policy that tells anyone where the line is.
In this freestyle episode, Brent and Khalil unpack what's actually working in their daily AI use, why most MSAs leave the policy gap to you, and the licensing conversation that's quietly coming for the profession.
If you're trying to figure out where AI fits inside your team without losing your reputation or your bench of future landmen, this is the conversation to listen to.
Key Topics & Timestamps
01:04 - Freestyle AI Reality Check
02:45 - Midland Takeaways and AI Questions
04:29 - AI Policies and Email Pitfalls
12:32 - Agentic AI and the Landman Future
24:58 - Campus Pulse at Texas Tech
30:33 - Dudley AI Roadmap Q2-Q4
35:11 - Focus Discipline, and Wrap
Memorable Quotes
"If you're not actively giving guidance and training and tools and resources and policies, it is the Wild West." — Brent
"It is a tool 100%, but the way that you treat it is not like you treat a tool. It's more of an employee." — Khalil
"You have to be deliberate about your development of your talent." — Brent
"When AI starts executing for you, you're not hitting keystrokes as much. You have to start focusing on your judgment. That's gonna be the most important thing." — Khalil
"Start with a little snowball. Make a snowman." — Brent
Key Takeaways
AI policies aren't optional. Without a red, yellow, and green framework (plus a gray zone for the in-between), teams default to the Wild West and confidential data ends up in tools no one's tracking.
Treat AI like an employee, more than a tool. You wouldn't hand a new hire client emails on day one. The same caution applies before you paste client work into ChatGPT.
The next two years force a hard call on agentic work. Companies have to decide what an agent can do, what a licensed landman signs off on, and how to verify the work behind the disclaimer.
Entry-level work is what builds 10 and 20 year landmen. If agents take that work, the bench disappears, so companies need deliberate paths to get juniors real field experience.
Pick one problem and ship it. Half-baked tools across six departments is how teams end up with a mess. Focus on one workflow, finish it, then expand.
Quarterly cadence works for AI rollout. Start with education and discovery, identify your early adopters, give them room to build on real workflows, then push the polished tool company-wide.
Ready to protect your land projects with integrated legal and title support? Our Dudley Select Title division works seamlessly with experienced oil and gas counsel to keep your deals on track and defensible. Contact us to learn how our complete energy partnership approach includes the legal expertise that matters when stakes are high.
033 - A Baby's Guide to Being a Petroleum Landman with Steve Virant
19 Sep 2024
00:30:41
Diving into the oil & gas industry has never been this fun! Discover the adorable children's book by Steve Virant that explains landman concepts in a way that even babies can enjoy. Tune in!
"You just can't beat the go-get-them attitude. That's what a landman is. They're the guys and gals that are going to drive out to the middle of nowhere or go somewhere that they've never been just to try to learn and take an opportunity. And if you put in the work, the opportunities keep coming." - Steve Virant
"If you want to stay in this business, whether you're in-house or in the field, you just have to be open and never say no. You never know what the next opportunity is going to bring you." - Brent Broussard
"As a kid, you always just want to explore and tinker with everything, and that's what you've got to keep going throughout your career. Otherwise, you'll get stagnant and it won't be fun. Once it's not fun, what's the point?" - Steve Virant
032 - The Ultimate Guide to BESS with Drew Lebowitz and Sean Daly
05 Sep 2024
00:48:47
Want to know everything about battery energy storage? Our latest podcast episode with Drew Lebowitz and Sean Daly covers it all, from project size to revenue models. Tune in for a deep dive into BESS!
Time Stamps
01:14 - Episode Intro
01:39 - Overview of Battery Energy Storage
03:02 - Meet the Experts: Drew and Sean
06:13 - Technical Aspects of Battery Storage Projects
14:00 - Noise and Safety Concerns
20:34 - Market Dynamics and Revenue Models
24:38 - Interconnecting Energy Projects to the Grid
35:38 - Civil Engineering and Construction Challenges
41:58 - Revenue Potentials
46:41 - Episode Outro
Snippets from the Episode
"Batteries are unique in that they can access all kinds of different markets." - Drew Lebowitz
"A battery is a fairly simple prospect compared to, let's say, wind turbines, where you've got these like massive structures at its heart. A battery is a very heavy box which sits usually on a concrete pad. So it's fairly simple, but that's not to say it's totally foolproof." - Drew Lebowitz
"The size of a project is really dictated by the project and energy capacity that you're looking for." - Sean Daly
"Certain suppliers need an inverter, a power conversion system external to the container. There are some suppliers where those inverters are integrated in the container. And I think we're seeing some more of that in the industry." - Sean Daly
"I'd venture to say that they might have the best BESS book out there. It's impressive!" - Brent Broussard
Hear what Dudley Land has been up to this summer! From new hires, exciting expansions, market trends, licensure issues, to college football predictions, don't miss the updates on our latest round table!
Time Stamps
00:51 Episode Intro
02:36 New Hires and Expansions
06:33 Regional Updates and Market Trends
17:36 Licensure Controversy in Texas
23:20 College Football Season Predictions
24:55 Team Bets
31:47 Upcoming Events and Final Thoughts
Snippets from the Episode
"We've got a new edition in the Dudley umbrella - Dudley Staffing." -Brandon
"Things are staying strong up in the Northeast. We haven't really seen any slowdowns this year. If anything, we've grown." - Steve
"Our renewable world has just skyrocketed. It is nonstop. I don't know if there's one manager at Dudley right now who isn't running a renewables project." - Steve
"We're doing more and more of full scale project management for our clients. And really, that's where we want to be. We want to be kind of the solution." -Brent
"The more experience we gain, the more we work, and the more we know, the more capable we are to be a contributor in the full process."-Brent
Is your HR team overwhelmed with recruitment tasks? Let Dudley Staffing take the wheel! Our specialized team is here to fill your open positions quickly and efficiently. Tune in to learn more!
Time Stamps
00:54 - Episode & Guest Intro
02:39 - How Dudley's Culture Shaped Dudley Staffing
06:59 - Dudley Staffing Services Overview
11:02 - The Recruitment Process
14:39 - Why Choose Dudley Staffing?
20:00 - Getting Started with Dudley Staffing
22:15 - Dudley Staffing vs. Other Staffing Agencies
"For us at Dudley Staffing, we want to be a partner. We don't want to just be another vendor, another staffing agency to fill a role." - Makenzie Wall
"When you outsource the recruiting to us, we don't want to add more time to your plate. The goal is to take that time away and let us focus on the recruiting side." - Makenzie Wall
"You don't get to stick around in the oil and gas business for 40 something years unless you really care about your clients, really care about your people. It just doesn't happen." - Brandon Ward
"At Dudley staffing, we're going to care about you and we're going to care about the people that we staff in your company." - Brandon Ward
Curious about battery storage and its role in our energy future? Dive into all things BESS as we break down the basics, and explore emerging trends. Don’t miss it!
Time Stamps
00:46 - Episode & Guest Intro
03:21 - Importance of Battery Energy Storage
04:19 - Battery Storage Projects Across the U.S.
05:18 - Siting and Location Considerations
08:12 - Utility Scale vs. Distributed Battery Storage
10:50 - Land Agreements in Battery Storage Projects
14:56 - Agreement Structures & Terms
17:06 - Challenges and Community Relations
19:44 - Strategies for Landmen in Battery Storage
22:45 - Prioritizing and Vetting Potential Sites
23:29 - Challenges and Strategies in Competitive Markets
"We've got to find a way, wouldn't say preach, but educate these landowners." - Patrick Durman
"Every landowner, no matter where they're at in the country, can relate to not having power. And that's really what these projects are for." -Blake Thomas
"It's a fantastic solution for these short term outages to prop up the grid. That's why we're seeing a huge push to get these batteries into play." -Natalie Johns
"Every project is unique and different, but you can't avoid the mineral review. You need to understand and know what your exposure is." -Brent Broussard
Don’t let mineral title complexities hold your projects back! Brent Broussard and Natalie Johns dive deep into the critical steps in derisking renewable energy projects through title diligence. Essential listening for any renewables developer!
027 - Government Affairs for the Landman with Todd Morgan
20 Jun 2024
01:04:01
Let's dive into the nuances of government affairs for landmen with Todd Morgan! Discover the legislative battles, evolving landman roles, and critical lobbying efforts keeping the industry thriving. Don’t miss it!
026 - Osage Wind: Shortcuts Lead to Dead Ends with Douglas Sandridge
06 Jun 2024
00:53:39
Too big to fail? Think again! Tune in to hear the gripping story of Osage Wind and learn why even big energy corporations can’t cut corners. A compelling episode you don’t want to miss!
Time Stamps
00:43 - Episode & Guest Into
01:48 - Doug's Fascination with Osage Wind
06:13 - Historical Context of the Osage Tribe
13:46 - The Osage Wind Legal Battle
29:40 - NEPA Considerations and Legal Implications
025 - Produced Water Disputes with Bobby Biedrzycki
02 May 2024
00:36:44
Let's dive deep into the complexities of water rights, the landmark cactus water case, and its implications for the oil and gas industry in Texas. Join us for an insightful discussion with Bobby Biedrzycki on how these legal challenges shape the future of resource management.
Time Stamps
00:00 - Episode & Guest Intro
01:41 - The Cactus Water Case
09:27 - Exploring the Legislative and Technological Landscape of Produced Water
14:55 - The Future of Lithium Extraction and Legal Guidance for Clients
16:39 - Navigating Mineral Leases and Water Rights in Texas
18:41 - Practical Takeaways for Handling Leases and Conveyances
29:11 - Legal Strategies and the Importance of Good Counsel
33:03 - Staying Informed on Water Rights and Mineral Law
Snippets from the Episode
"What we're seeing is technology is advancing so quickly with our ability to treat this water and they were doing tests with the cotton crops well over a decade ago, where they're saying, the treated produced water be put into agricultural use for cotton and you're getting similar cotton yields from it. And so in that kind of scenario where you're not having people, it's not being consumed by wildlife, it's not potable water at that point. Why wouldn't we use it for those kind of purposes, especially as potable and fresh water is diminishing." - Bobby
"In these parts of Texas where there's not a massive water table. You're talking about desert conditions. Water is a valuable thing. And obviously, that's why these companies like cactus water and all that are trying seize opportunities to take advantage of all this water that's being produced and the market for it." -Brent
"I think the requirements on reuse of water are going to increase. So the value of that produced water is going to increase." -Bobby
024 - EnergyNet: The Digital Marketplace for Land with Chris Atherton
18 Apr 2024
00:52:38
How is the digital age reshaping the oil and gas industry? Find out as we talk with Chris Atherton of EnergyNet about a marketplace where buying and selling land for energy production is just a click away. Think AirBnb but for oil & gas assets!
Time Stamps
01:26 - Intro to Chris Atherton
04:39 - Exploring EnergyNet's Impact and Services
11:59 - The Challenges in Energy Land Auctions
17:59 - Personal Insights and the Enron Experience
21:15 - EnergyNet's Competitive Sales Process
28:39 - Leveraging Big Company Strategies for Government Lease Sales
39:25 - Strategic Bidding and Sealed Bid Insights
43:56 - The Future of EnergyNet
51:25 - Closing Remarks and Contact Information
Snippets from the Episode
"I think there's a perception that if you put it out, you're going to get tire kickers, you're going to get lowball bidders. But the nature of the platform [EnergyNet] and how the mechanics work, it just sifts them. The cream rises to the top." - Chris Atherton
"A fair, structured, competitive sale process is going to generate the best results consistently, whether there's a one-on-one sale or industry type and investment bank led sale or a government lease sale." - Chris Atherton
"When I say two-sided marketplace, I mean, like Zillow or even Airbnb or Uber's. We have buyers and sellers. Uber has riders and drivers and Airbnb has hosts and runners." -Chris Atherton
059 - Lithium, Data Centers, and the New Land Frontier with Reagan Marble
17 Mar 2026
01:02:09
The energy and infrastructure landscape is shifting faster than most land professionals can track. Lithium prices crashed 85% in two years, yet leasing activity stayed strong. The Smackover Formation emerged as a world-class brine source. Data centers from the East Coast are flooding into Texas, unfamiliar with mineral estates and the landmen who navigate them. Regulatory frameworks are still catching up, leaving operators navigating unprecedented territory.
Reagan Marble, partner at Jackson Walker and a go-to counsel for lithium transactions, joins Brent and Khalil to break down what's actually happening in the market, where the real challenges sit, and what the next wave of land work looks like for professionals willing to adapt.
Key Timestamps
01:01 - Reagan Marble is Back!
04:19 - Lithium Market Update
10:07 - Regulatory And Permitting Hurdles
18:18 - Consolidation And Lease Cleanup
23:28 - Potash And Bromine Upside
28:16 - Permian Produced Water Lithium
30:52 - Dual Resource Oil And Lithium
32:17 - Landman Skills Evolving Fast
35:46 - Data Centers Enter The Chat
38:30 - Minerals Water And Site Due Diligence
44:11 - Power Crunch And Regulatory Battles
53:17 - Five Year Outlook And Wrap Up
Memorable Quotes
"As an oil and gas lawyer and as a landman, we are in the people business and that part of the business will never be replaced, ever." — Reagan
"Half of our business at Dudley Land Company didn't exist 10 years ago." — Brent
"The next five years in lithium development is gonna make the first five or six years since 2020 look like we were moving at a snail's pace." — Reagan
"The regulatory framework is gonna be pretty tough. Someone's gonna have to be the first one to go permit it and, good luck to whoever it is. Hopefully it's not me." — Reagan
Key Takeaways
Lithium market has shifted from land grab to consolidation. Prices compressed, but strong leasing activity persists. Operators who signed deals at peak bonus levels now face renegotiation pressure.
Smackover Formation is world-class brine. Lithium concentrations near 800 mg/L compete with South America's best deposits and justify the Texas land rush.
Brine production permitting is the next frontier. The Railroad Commission published rules, but no one has successfully permitted a brine production well yet. Primacy over Class 5 disposal wells remains with EPA, creating a regulatory chicken-and-egg problem.
Data centers are the new oil and gas. East Coast PE and family offices are competing for Texas land and water, largely unfamiliar with mineral rights and the professionals who manage them. Water procurement and power availability are the real constraints.
Landman skillset is expanding rapidly. Modern land professionals now work across oil and gas, renewables, lithium, CCS, and data centers. Human relationships remain irreplaceable by technology.
About Our Guest
Reagan Marble is a partner at Jackson Walker in Fort Worth and a leading voice in energy transactions across oil and gas, lithium, and emerging infrastructure. His practice spans deal structuring, regulatory strategy, and the convergence of traditional energy and new resource development in Texas.
Dive into the future with us! Our latest episode with Jerris Johnson explores the exciting intersection of artificial intelligence and the landman profession. Listen now to uncover how Ai is revolutionizing the industry!
Time Stamps
01:16 - Intro to Jerris Johnson
02:23 - The Dawn of Ai in the Land Industry
07:07 - Basics of Ai for Landmen
09:51 - Practical Ai Applications in Land Management
16:23 - How to Navigate the AI Tools for Landmen
24:14 - The Advantage of Custom GPTs for Landmen
32:03 - Leveraging Ai for Land Management Efficiency
46:47 - The Future of AI in the Land Business
49:50 - Final Thoughts & Takeaways
Snippets from the Episode
"What we're trying to figure out as a company is, how do we go about taking all this knowledge of 43 years of business and leverage it and build something that is beneficial to us and our clients that we work for and the people we work for?” - Brent Broussard
"I think what's really exciting is that we are truly in the infancy stage. This is just the beginning of whole new technological renaissance." - Jerris Johnson
"One school of thought is it [Ai] has no feelings and it doesn't care if you're saying please or thank you. The other school of thought is. When they [Ai] take over, you want them to remember that you were nice to them." - Jerris Johnson
"I think those who are willing to work alongside of it [Ai] are not going to become obsolete. Those who try to fight against it [Ai] might be disappointed with the outcome." - Jerris Johnson
Seasoned landman Jimmy Hopkins joins our podcast to help us navigate the world of lease buying! Discover the secrets to building trust and mastering landowner outreach in this practical and tactical episode.
Time Stamps
00:39 - Meet Jimmy: The Silver Fox of Land Management
02:08 - Jimmy's Journey to Becoming a Landman
06:29 - Mastering Landowner Outreach
11:36 - Navigating Challenges and Building Trust
19:40 - Advice for New Lease Buyers
25:36 - The Importance of Being Informed
28:30 - Adapting to Remote Negotiations and the Power of Technology
31:31 - Strategies for Effective Leasing and Finding People
34:25 - Maintaining Professionalism and Efficiency in Land Management
38:09 - Accountability and Self-Sufficiency
Snippets from the Episode
"Treating people like you want to be treated and being humble about it. Don't go in there as a know it all. Gain their trust, because you have a goal to achieve. Just like anything, you got your job, you've gotta make it happen, and that goal has to fit within the confines of what your client has laid out for you." - Jimmy Hopkins
"Start learning everything you can about the rules and regulations so that you can accurately give these lessors the information that they need to make an informed decision on that oil and gas lease. Don't be a bullshit artist. Put in the time, man." - Jimmy Hopkins
"If you can get that opportunity to sit in and listen to those negotiations, it's invaluable. If you're a young guy on a crew, ask your leasing crew chief, that they're negotiating a big deal. Can I sit in and listen? Be vocal about those things." - Brent Broussard
Let’s dive into the intriguing world of stealth leasing projects! Listen as Brent, Brandon, and Steve share their experiences and give insight into this interesting side of land management. Plus, get a sneak peek into the first annual Landman Olympics. Tune in!
Time Stamps
00:42 - Episode Intro
03:57 - The Curious Case of Buda Gate
06:48 - The Fayetteville Shale Project
14:39 - The Art of Stealth in Land Leasing
18:59 - A Successful Stealth Project in the Permian
20:25 - Evolution of Stealth Leasing in Recent Years
23:56 - Scouting in the Oil and Gas Industry
27:33 - Practical Tips for Implementing Stealth Projects
"When we say stealth, it just means we're working on behalf of a client, an ENP, and they don't want the world to know that it's them. So you do that for a number of different reasons." -Brent Broussard
"You've never seen a more curious bunch of people than landmen working on a stealth job. They would try to trick everybody involved. You're chuckling at your landman and landowners trying to figure out who it is and speculating who it is." -Brent Broussard
"You don't even tell your family where you're at. You're just there and you need to stay there and work. But the key is really having that abstract plant, and finding an out-of-the-way place. It was highly successful in a time that people weren't looking in that direction, so it was easy to stay stealth." -Brandon Ward
"If you're gonna do a stealth project, it's probably best to use somebody like Dudley as opposed to kind of a one-off shop that's just done your work for 20 years. You better go somewhere else if you're gonna do a stealth project." -Brandon Ward
Resources
Is EOG Hiding A Supergiant Oilfield in the Buda in East Texas? | Chuck Yates Needs A Job Podcast
Effectively navigating Master Service Agreements can be the key to a successful business deal and foster successful long-term partnerships. Join us with Molly Pela for a comprehensive rundown of what you need to know to master MSAs.
Time Stamps
00:30 - Episode & Guest Intro
02:59 - Understanding MSAs
06:29 - Advantages of Doing MSAs
09:50 - When Not to Do MSAs
11:12 - Disadvantages & Potential Pitfalls
12:47 - The Role of MSAs in Land Services
13:05 - One-sided Dynamics of MSAs with Larger Companies
18:55 - MSA Checklist for Drafting/Reviewing
19:20 - Term
21:24 - Scope of Work
25:00 - Performance Metrics
29:32 - Payment & Billing
32:42 - Warranties
35:33 - Understanding Warranties in Business
36:03 - Change Orders
39:43 - Understanding Force Majeure
39:43 - Force Majeure
41:08 - Termination
42:43 - Liability and Indemnification
46:08 - Lien Language
47:47 - Confidentiality
48:23 - The Importance of Non-Compete Clauses
51:24 - Dispute Resolution
56:30 - The Importance of Non-Solicitation Clauses
58:17 - Schedule of Attachments
58:26 - Insurance
59:37 - Work Orders
01:03:19 - Conclusion & Takeaways
Snippets From the Episode
"An MSA provides a framework or a backdrop for two businesses to do business and have many deals kind of on a rolling basis. So it's setting a baseline." - Molly Pela
"An MSA allows work to flow much faster. I don't need to tell you guys, time is money, particularly in the oil patch. So it allows for that efficiency and allows a little real world acknowledgement that things move quickly." - Molly Pela
"An MSA defines the rules of the game, just simply, right? This is how we're going to play. This is what I expect of you and what you should expect of us." - Brent Broussard
"Everybody needs to play by the same rules because then we know how to move forward and what's gonna happen." - Molly Pela
"I'm a firm believer that your contract, you should mean what you say, say what you mean." - Molly Pela
019 - Dudley Select Title: Improving Title Insurance in Texas with Spencer Cearly
06 Feb 2024
00:46:31
We’re excited to introduce Renewables developers to Dudley Select Title. Title for renewables projects can completed more efficiently and with more certainty by integrating title insurance with experienced land services. Listen in to learn more!
Time Stamps
00:33 - Dudley's New Endeavors in Alternative Energy
02:47 - The Importance of Title Insurance in Energy Projects
05:05 - The Birth of Dudley Select Title
05:49 - The Benefits of the Agency Model
06:25 - The Challenges of the Direct Model
09:18 - The Unique Approach of Dudley Select Title
22:19 - The Impact of the Inflation Reduction Act on Business Opportunities
22:52 - The Challenges and Opportunities in the Regulatory Environment
30:37 - The Impact of Regulatory Orders on Project Development
33:15 - The Role of Underwriters in Risk Tolerance
41:19 - The Future of Dudley Select Title and its Potential for Growth
Snippets From the Episode
"What else do our clients need from us? How else can we serve? Title insurance is a big part of it. You know, we're largely an acquisition and title-based company. That's the services we provide. And one thing that's unique in the alternative space, and particularly with some of the large utility-scale projects that we see, you know, the big solar fields, some of the battery storage sites, the wind projects - they all get a Title policy." - Brent Broussard
"Our goal and what we are shooting for and what, our primary, end game is when you get that title commitment back from Dudley Select title, not only is it addressing the needs in any situation you might have with your surface ownership, but it's also gonna incorporate, the mineral title review into that process." - Brent Broussard
"We're being conservative about how we approach growth here. You know, we wanna do that organically. We want to do that with good partners going forward. That doesn't mean don't call us and ask us if you've got a project wherever, but we do want to ensure that we are delivering the best service. And we wanna be able to control in terms of delivering that good product back to our owners. And being that partner with them throughout the full scale of the project." - Spencer Cearly
018 - Christmas Cocktail Hour: Scaling Up, Values, and 2024 Outlook
24 Dec 2023
00:46:32
It’s time for Christmas Cocktail Hour! In this festive, light-hearted episode, Brent, Brandon, and Steve tackle the highs and lows of 2023 and their predictions for 2024.
Time Stamps
00:30 Personal Updates
06:20 Year-End Reflections and Company Achievements
12:56 Company Goals and Future Plans
15:59 Improving Company Culture and Employee Engagement
22:26 The Importance of Dudley's Core Values
24:44 The Value of People
26:26 The Role of Service
28:33 Putting Importance on Product
32:57 Setting a Good Example
35:03 The Impact of Core Values on Our Company's Reputation
017 - Exploring Lithium Extraction from Produced Water with Reagan Marble
21 Nov 2023
00:48:31
Reagan Marble of Jackson Walker joins Brent and Khalil in this informative talk to dive deep into the process of lithium extraction from produced water. They explore the evolution of the lithium industry as well as lithium's potential profitability in the US market. Stay tuned!
Time Stamps
02:28 - Guest Introduction
03:51 - Lithium Extraction and its Importance
06:04 - Battery Storage and Lithium Demand
06:57 - Lithium Extraction Methods
07:42 - Lithium Extraction
09:12 - Direct Lithium Extraction Process
14:49 - Potential of Lithium Extraction in the Future
19:28 - Ownership of Brine and Constituent Elements
25:24 - Current State of Lithium Extraction
25:46 - The Role of Surface Owners in Lithium Extraction
26:48 - The Future of Lithium as Part of the Mineral Estate
27:34 - The Lithium Market in Arkansas
30:21 - The Decline Curve & Lithium Extraction Process
32:35 - The Economics of Lithium Extraction
37:50 - Lease Structures for Lithium Extraction
40:48 - Lithium Extraction in Texas
46:32 - Reagan Marble's Contact Information
Snippets From Reagan Marble
"Lithium is important because that's the way right now we store power. We store it in batteries and cars that way in the big giant battery storage facilities that you're seeing going up throughout Texas.
"I really do think Texas can be the leader in it [Lithium extraction]. And I think the U. S. can be a leader across the world. And I'm excited to see the Texas economy benefit from such a future-oriented energy storage solution."
"The great thing about brine mining, which is the extraction of useful materials that are naturally dissolved in water of high salinity, it doesn't look any different from a surface impact than a water well that you'd see in rice irrigation farming. The surface impact is no different."
"If I am a betting man, I'm betting that the mineral lobby in Texas is good enough that it is going to be ultimately declared part of the mineral estate."
016 - Challenges and Opportunities in the Energy Sector with Josh Cornell
31 Oct 2023
00:58:18
Join us in this insightful conversation with Josh Cornell, a seasoned professional in the oil and gas industry, as he shares his incredible journey from starting out as a landman to becoming a key player in the Private Equity sector.
Learn about the lessons he acquired along the way that lead him to launch his own growth oil and gas company focusing on the next stage of shale resources.
Time Stamps
01:14 - Guest Introduction
02:40 - Josh Cornell's Career Journey
15:05 - From Land Service Companies, to Public Sector, to Private Equity
23:09 - Sourcing Capital Pre-COVID vs. Post-COVID
32:54 - State & Federal Regulations Shifts
37:52 - Effects of the Upcoming 2024 Election
39:50 - A Mechanism for Growth
42:27 - What to Look for in a Land Service Company
47:14 - Complexities & Challeges in Due Diligence Projects
50:33 - Importance of Open Communication & Clarity with a Land Service Company
55:16 - Working with DLC on a Due Diligence Project
Snippets From The Episode
"At some point I believe that public oil and gas companies are gonna have to show investors a mechanism for growth. And um, and that usually comes in the form of either making a large acquisition into a new play or bolting onto an existing play, or, commencing a couple leasing campaigns and drilling new wells and new areas." - Josh Cornell
"When I got into the, the oil and gas industry, I was told by, you know, people much older than me, that you absolutely have to understand title in order to be a landman and regardless of what your role is within a land service company or public or private, you have to understand title." - Josh Cornell
"It really takes a in-house landman to know what they're doing with that particular unit and how quickly we need to get in there, or how competitive it is and what you really want out of it." - Brandon Ward
015 - Land Management Career Success: Insights from Barclay Ridge
13 Oct 2023
00:50:59
Are you an independent landman looking to stand out in a competitive industry? Working as an independent landman can be challenging, but it can also be incredibly rewarding. To succeed in this field, you need to set yourself apart from the competition.
Join Brent Broussard and Barclay Ridge in this episode and equip yourself with the knowledge and skills needed to differentiate yourself as an independent landman. Let's get started!
Time Stamps
00:47 - Episode & Guest Intro
02:00 - Barclay Ridge's Professional Background
04:53 - Know What You're Good At
07:37 - Recognize Your Limitations
09:12 - Know What You Can Accomplish Within a Project Timeline
12:14 - The Importance of Planning
14:09 - Know Your Client
18:22 - Tailoring Your Deliverables
22:02 - Understanding Systems and Processes
25:53 - Know Your Role
30:16 - The Importance of Communication
31:24 - Know Your Project
33:30 - Having the Right Attitude
35:38 - Creating Value as an Independent Landman
43:53 - Knowing Your Value
48:54 - Key Takeaways
49:49 - How to Get In Touch with Barclay
Snippets From The Episode
“You don't have to be the best of everything. But you do want to be remembered as somebody that is, heads down, moving the ball forward, solving problems, making the hurdles where there need to be made. Those are the things that people look back for." - Barclay Ridge
"Frankly, the biggest thing as an independent is if you're not billing, you're not bringing home a dollar. So, the more prepared you are for that, the busier you can be." - Brent Broussard
"It is about staying busy. That's sort of your first priority. But it also is about finding quality projects that you enjoy doing." - Barclay Ridge
"As you're looking for more work, you really need to know what you're good at doing." - Barclay Ridge
"Be confident in the things you know. Be honest about your limitations." - Barclay Ridge
Carbon capture and storage (CCS) is critical in addressing climate change. As greenhouse gas emissions continue to rise, developing new methods to lessen their impact on our planet has become more important than ever. While there are still challenges to be tackled, CCS is steadily progressing towards wider adoption.
Listen in as Loren Long, Business Development Leader & Strategist facilitating the critical factors of successful CCS & upstream projects, joins the show to discuss the state of CCS.
Time Stamps
01:11 - What is CCS?
05:19 - Guest Intro
06:54 - Understanding More About CCS
08:28 - Impact of Inflation Reduction Act
11:54 - Elements of a CCS Project
12:27 - Emitter
15:35 - Direct Air Capture
17:51 - Economics of an Emitter
18:31 - Transportation
19:11 - Repurposing Existing Pipelines for CO2
20:33 - Building New Pipelines
21:35 - Pipeline Challenges & Considerations
24:06 - Trend in Transportation Side of CCS
29:08 - Storage
36:20 - The Economics of CCS Storage
44:05 - Permitting Considerations
53:10 - Why CCS?
Snippets From The Episode
"It is going to be incredibly difficult to make meaningful, progress in fighting climate change if CCS is not involved." - Loren Long
"The trend I think we're going to see on the transportation side is just shorter runs of the pipelines and looking for more localized solutions, which in a lot of ways is probably a better outcome anyway." -Loren Long
"It's just nearly impossible to build any pipeline without eminent domain. Buying right of way nowadays is tough!" -Brent Broussard
"I don't know how much CO2 relative to the big issue and how much we emit every year. I'm not sure it's a huge percentage that will be put into the ground in my lifetime. But I tell you what, I want to be a part of saying, "Look, I blazed the trail." - Loren Long
058 - The Evolution of Pooling in the Oil & Gas Industry with Ben Holliday
19 Feb 2026
01:03:24
Energy attorney Ben Holliday breaks down how the oil and gas industry evolved from traditional pooling to today's allocation wells, tackling the complex challenge of drilling long laterals across multiple existing units.
From the first Devon allocation well breakthrough to New Mexico's compulsory pooling framework, discover the practical solutions land professionals use to maximize development while navigating regulatory hurdles.
What You’ll Learn
How allocation wells solved the multi-unit drilling problem without legislative changes
Key differences between Texas allocation wells and New Mexico compulsory pooling
Why production sharing agreements fell out of favor despite regulatory support
How to navigate lease restrictions on allocation well development
The evolution from 640-acre units to multi-section horizontal development
Time Stamps
00:45 - Episode & Guest Intro
02:38 - Ben's Career Journey
03:58 - Early Experiences in the Oil and Gas Industry
10:29 - Pooling and Unitization Basics
13:48 - Evolution of Allocation Wells
15:52 - Challenges and Legal Aspects
23:10 - Production Sharing Agreements
26:19 - Current Practices and Industry Impact
33:15 - Understanding Lateral Take Points
33:42 - Complexities of Unit Allocation
34:43 - Impact of AI on Landmen and Attorneys
36:52 - Lease Analysis for Allocation Wells
38:16 - Mineral Owners' Concerns
41:52 - Retained Acreage Clauses and Allocation Wells
47:06 - New Mexico's Compulsory Pooling System
58:24 - Contested Hearings and Operator Disputes
01:02:09 - Conclusion and Resources
Snippets from the Episode
"I learned from Mr. Arrington that in the context of a lease negotiation, 'no' means not right now, and you haven't paid me enough." - Ben Holliday
"The general stance of Texas is to encourage development. We don't want to be restraining development, we want resources to be developed." - Ben Holliday
“The story of multi-tract development is really a story of industry and the legal side of the house trying to keep pace with each other and what you can do.” - Ben Holliday
Key Takeaways
Technology Drove Legal Innovation
Rule 37 Exceptions Opened Allocation Well Possibilities
PSAs Required Too Much Stakeholder Coordination
Productive Lateral Formula Became Industry Standard
Lease Language Analysis Critical for Allocation Wells
New Mexico's Compulsory System Protects State Revenue
Both State Approaches Effectively Maximize Resource Development
Ready to protect your land projects with integrated legal and title support? Our Dudley Select Title division works seamlessly with experienced oil and gas counsel to keep your deals on track and defensible. Contact us to learn how our complete energy partnership approach includes the legal expertise that matters when stakes are high.
013 - Dudley Cocktail Hour - Summer Updates, New Hires, & Harry Caray
24 Aug 2023
00:48:55
It's time for another cocktail hour! As the summer season wraps up, Dudley Land executives Brent, Brandon, and Steve talk about new hires, workforce challenges, core values, and current industry trends and forecasts.
Time Stamps
00:00 - Harry Caray in the House!
03:36 - Summer Catch Up with Brent, Brandon & Steve
09:13 - Workforce Updates & Challenges
20:36 - Upholding Dudley Land Company's Core Values
28:00 - Summer Updates & Forecast
37:45 - The Value Dudley Can Bring to a Renewable Energy Project
41:13 - College Football Predictions
Snippets From The Episode
"It's always like you're on the edge of that cliff and about to fall off, you know, it's constant in this business, I mean, we've been doing it for 20 years, Dudley Land's been doing it for over 40, but you're all, I mean, it never changes every, every day you walk in the office. What's going to happen today? You have no clue if you're going to be able to stay on that cliff or not." - Brandon Ward
"You want to make sure your project managers have the bandwidth to do the job the right way and give the projects the attention they need. But you don't want to have so many project managers that you've got guys sitting there needing something to do." - Brent Broussard
"You got to know what you know and know what you don't know." - Brandon Ward
"If you're not messing up, you're not working hard enough. That's just all there is to it." - Brent Broussard
"You need a partner who's going to be able to handle the boots on the ground. It doesn't work with some person sitting in New York City, trying to contact a landowner in Tennessee. So I'm hoping that that shift is going to continue in our direction of us being a viable partner for these groups and not just a staffing company." - Steve Carr
012 - Developing the Future Generations of Energy Professionals with Mike McConnell
03 Aug 2023
01:17:38
As the energy industry continues to grow and diversify in the 21st century, the need to develop the next generation of energy professionals is more important than ever.
Mike McConnell, Director of the Energy Management Program at the University of Oklahoma Price College of Business, joins the show to discuss the importance of education in shaping the future of the energy business, creating energy leaders, and some lessons he learned from his time as a landman.
Time Stamps
00:00 - Episode Intro
01:12 - Intro to Mike McConnell
01:55 - Mike McConnell's Career Journey
13:23 - Mike's Work as Director of Energy Management Program at OU
24:19 - The Value of the Energy Management Program
27:14 - Mike's Experience as a Landman & How It Shaped His Career
35:56 - Creating Energy Leaders
42:27 - Mike's Insider Perspective About Enron
49:13 - What Mike Learned From His Enron Experience
53:43 - Developing Future Energy Professionals
57:49 - Mike's Intro Class
01:03:55 - Direction of the Energy Management Program
01:06:50 - The Next Generation of Landmen
Snippets From The Episode
"When you work for 13 years and it's all about equity and your equity goes to zero, you've got to do something else." - Mike McConnell
"It's okay to lose all your money once, but to do it twice is just really bad, especially at 58." - Mike McConnell
"I'm an 'and' kind of guy. I'm not a 'but' kind of guy." - Mike McConnell
"We went from smart to clever, and in my household clever is a bad word because I think there's a huge difference" - Mike McConnell
"One of the lessons to my students is, if this doesn't excite you, You really need to change your major." - Mike McConnell
"Earn what you're getting and don't let the door hit you in the rear at five o'clock." - Mike McConnell
"All you can control is the type of person you are, and the example you set, how you march to the beat of your drum." -Brent Broussard
011 - Navigating Title for Renewables Projects with 2R Group
16 May 2023
01:00:47
As more development and resources are poured into renewables, the growing number of renewable projects around the country poses numerous challenges. Title is one aspect that is frequently disregarded yet is critical. Ryndi Collier of 2R Group joins Brent Broussard to talk about navigating renewables project titles.
Time Stamps
00:35 - Get to Know the 2R Group
04:45 - Most Pressing Challenges in Reaching Clean Energy Goals
08:47 - What Does 2R Group Do?
15:45 - The Start of Dudley & 2R Group's Partnership
17:42 - The Difference in Title Processes for Oil & Gas vs. Renewables
21:15 - Advantages of Understanding Both the Oil & Gas and Renewables Title Process
29:48 - Unfortunate Consequences of Competition
33:24 - The Importance of Title Due Diligence
43:23 - Mitigating Risks Through Early Title Processing
45:40 - Working with a Land Broker for Title Processing
50:52 - Why Dudley Started Its Own Title Company
54:18 - Get In Touch with the 2R Group
Snippets From The Episode
“The higher the value of the improvement, the higher the risk. That means the more important the land vetting and the title work is.” - Ryndi Collier
“Title is not sexy in land development. It's a monetary drain sucker of wind out of everybody's sail.” - Ryndi Collier
“What a huge difference it was for me to learn about how gas and oil handled it. And then for you guys, for all the gas and oil people to learn how the renewable industry was handling it.” - Ryndi Collier
“How can we make informed, educated decisions about pulling the trigger on site control, while maximizing our potential and actually get this deal to the finish line?” - Brent Broussard
"We don't want to be title mercenaries, we want to be a partner. We want to be able to help our clients. We're a service organization, not just some vendor. " - Brent Broussard
What makes a great landman and leader? In this episode, Steve Carr invites his mentor, former VP of Operations at Dudley Headquarters in Oklahoma City, Russell Shaw. Russel shares his professional journey from architect to landman, becoming an integral part of Dudley Land, and staying in the game even after retirement.
Time Stamps
00:38 - Intro to Russell Shaw
03:22 - How Russel Got His Start in Land
06:53 - Russell's Career Journey with Dudley Land
12:54 - Biggest Lessons That Steve Learned From Russell
14:32 - Dudley Land Company’s Management Program
18:26 - What Makes a Good Project Manager?
21:33 - Think Like a VP
23:54 - Industry Takeaways While Working for Dudley
25:42 - Russell's Post-Retirement Journey
29:38 - A Look Into the Land Industry's Future
32:21 - A Rewarding Part of the Land Industry
33:44 - Episode Outro
Snippets From The Episode
“Everybody's different underneath you, and who works with you, so you can't go in with an all-in-one attitude.” - Steve Carr
“I think being a very good manager takes a lot of mistakes.” - Steve Carr
“I just don't like surprises. Whenever there's a problem, I want to know about it as soon as it starts.” - Russell Shaw
“You have to be able to rely on the people above you, just as the people above you need to be able to rely on you.” - Steve Carr
“I'm a competitive person, But you know, I never had my hand out; I had my hand up volunteering for things.” -Russell Shaw
“Regardless of the company or the business, people in leadership positions are always gonna go to the people that provide the least amount of resistance and the most help. “ -Russell Shaw
“Working doesn't keep me from doing anything else that I want to do.” - Russell Shaw
“Your five closest friends, if three of 'em aren't landmen, you're gonna have a difficult time making a career out of this.” -Russell Shaw