Flipping the Barrel is a podcast created to shine a light on women and men in energy by sharing the stories of successful individuals in this industry. Because everyone has a story that we can all learn from.
“Embracing Authenticity: Managing Emotions in the Workplace” with Magali Anderson- Chief Sustainability and Innovation Officer at Holcim.
May 23, 2023
Show notes
“Embracing Authenticity: Managing Emotions in the Workplace”
Magali Anderson, Holcim CSO
Magali started working as a field engineer on offshore oil rigs in Nigeria, beginning a 27-year career in oil and gas. She spent the majority of her career with Schlumberger, holding operational line management positions including CEO, Angola; and Region Head, Europe. She has also held several functional roles, including Vice President, Marketing & Sales; Vice President, Shared Services Organization for the Europe and Africa region; and Global Head of Maintenance.
She joined Holcim as Group Head of Health & Safety in 2016, before becoming Chief Sustainability Officer in 2019. In 2021, the Group announced the expansion of Magali’s role to Chief Sustainability and Innovation Officer, putting sustainability at the core of its innovation pipeline.
Magali graduated as a Mechanical Engineer from INSA Lyon. She is a French national and was born in 1967.
Magali brings a wealth of experience and insights to the table. In this episode, she shares her inspiring story, challenges faced by women in the industry, the power of gender quotas, managing emotions at work, and the importance of intentional career navigation. Get ready to be inspired and empowered by the wisdom she imparts.🎧📻🔊
✅ 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐃𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧:
Magali emphasized that the more people told her she couldn't achieve something, the more determined she became to prove them wrong. She shared her early career journey, which involved leaving her small village in France to work as a Wireline Field Engineer on offshore platforms in Nigeria. Despite facing skepticism and doubts, she pursued her goals with determination.
✅ 𝐈𝐧𝐬𝐩𝐢𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐄𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐬:
Magali faced challenges in managing her time as a couple with her husband, who was also a Field Engineer in the same company. To address this, she wrote a book about her story, aiming to inspire young females who aspire to pursue engineering careers while balancing family life. Her book served as a resource to provide answers to questions that young female engineers often have. Additionally, with the advent of the internet, Magali started a blog to share her experiences more effectively.
✅ 𝐎𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐁𝐢𝐚𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲:
Magali acknowledged the bias against women in the industry, particularly when it comes to attaining leadership roles. She highlighted the need to address the bias that stems from being excessively nice to women, which can inadvertently make them feel inferior. By raising awareness of these challenges, Magali seeks to create a more inclusive and equal environment for women in the industry.
✅ 𝐏𝐨𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐜𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐐𝐮𝐨𝐭𝐚𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐌:
Magali expressed that gender quotas, when implemented effectively and strategically, can help bridge the gender gap and provide more opportunities for women in STEM careers. By setting targets for gender representation, companies and institutions can actively promote diversity and inclusivity. Magali emphasized the importance of utilizing gender quotas as a tool for fostering equal opportunities in engineering and related fields.
Magali recognized that women in the workplace are often more emotional than men. Rather than viewing this as a weakness, she encouraged embracing vulnerability and openness. Magali highlighted the significance of having managers who can display emotions and create an atmosphere where diverse perspectives are valued and heard. This approach fosters open communication and adds humanity to the office space, making it more inclusive and conducive to collaboration.
✅ 𝐑𝐞𝐟𝐥𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 & 𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐫 𝐍𝐚𝐯𝐢𝐠𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧:
Magali emphasized the importance of periodically reassessing one's career objectives. She advised taking breaks in one's career to reflect on personal growth and align goals with changing circumstances. By asking questions such as "Am I who I want to be?" and identifying priorities in life, individuals can be more intentional in navigating their careers. Magali encouraged individuals to take control of their career paths and not leave their professional development to chance.
We hope you enjoyed this glimpse into the thought-provoking insights shared by Magali Anderson on Flipping the Barrel podcast. Her experiences and perspectives shed light on the dynamics of the oil and gas industry, while also addressing important themes of gender equality, personal growth, and authenticity in the workplace. 🤩
Be sure to tune in for more episodes that delve into diverse perspectives, allowing you to gain a holistic understanding of the industry and draw inspiration from remarkable individuals like Magali. Stay curious, stay informed, and continue exploring the ever-evolving landscape of energy and innovation through Flipping the Barrel.📻
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“Leadership Techniques to Build a Strong Team and Culture” with Peter Larden, Chairman and Managing Director for ExxonMobil in Papua New Guinea.
May 09, 2023
Show notes
“Leadership Techniques to Build a Strong Team and Culture”
Peter Larden, Exxon Mobile
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Peter Larden is an energy executive at ExxonMobil with over 15 years of experience across seven international regions. Recently, Peter accepted the position of Chairman & Managing Director, at ExxonMobil PNG in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea. Prior to this, Peter held the position of President of ExxonMobil Canada. His additional experience with ExxonMobil includes positions of Asset Manager (Africa), Global Planning & Business Analysis Advisor (Houston, Texas), and Risk Management Manager (Aberdeen UK)
Peter has also held positions outside of ExxonMobil, which include Director at Ocean Supercluster (St. John’s, NL), and Vice Chairman of the Petroleum Research Newfoundland and Labrador (St. John’s, NL).
Peter holds a Bachelor of Finance and a Bachelor of Engineering University, both from the University of Adelaide (2003). He also attended the Executive Development program (2013-2016) at Thunderbird School of Global Management.
During his appearance on the Flipping the Barrel podcast, Peter shared valuable insights that could inspire and guide listeners in their career journeys. 📻🎧
✅ 𝐄𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐲 𝐋𝐢𝐟𝐞:
Peter highlighted how traveling at a young age helped him appreciate different cultures and become more inclusive. He also shared how his passion for chemistry, physics, and mathematics in high school led him to pursue a career in chemical engineering, despite not initially expecting to work in the oil and energy industry.
✅ 𝐏𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐀𝐝𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐚𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲:
Peter shared his experience of working as a reservoir engineer in the desert, which required him to adapt to a completely different environment. This demonstrates the importance of being open to new experiences and learning how to adapt quickly to new cultures and environments.
✅ 𝐍𝐚𝐯𝐢𝐠𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐫:
Peter emphasized the importance of adding value to your team, continually learning and growing in your career, and enjoying your work. These are the fundamental principles that guide his decision-making process when navigating his career.
✅ 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 𝐒𝐭𝐲𝐥𝐞:
Peter shared how building strong relationships with field workers can help build a strong team, boost leadership, and advance the company's culture. He acknowledged that building trust may take time and energy, but it is an effective approach. Additionally, he discussed how he strives to integrate the company's culture with the culture of the country in which he operates. Being genuine and authentic is crucial for effective leadership.
Overall, Peter's insights offer valuable guidance for anyone looking to navigate their career successfully, build strong teams, and foster a positive workplace culture.’
“Flexibility and Adaptability: The Key to a Successful Career” with Evelyn Vilchez- Mexico Country Manager at Chevron.
Apr 25, 2023
Show notes
Flexibility and Adaptability:
The Key to a Successful Career
Evelyn Vilchez, Mexico Country Manager- Chevron
Evelyn Vilchez has been the general manager of Chevron Energía de México since March 2017. In this role, she promotes Chevron’s key stakeholder relationships in Mexico to help advance the country’s hydrocarbon sector and Chevron’s interests there. With more than 30 years of experience in the oil and gas industry, Vilchez has held commercial, business development, and strategic planning management positions with Chevron in Venezuela, Angola, and United States. Vilchez is an active member of the American Society of Women MBAs and a leader in several nonprofit organizations, with a particular interest in educational initiatives for Hispanics in Houston. Vilchez graduated from Tulane University with a bachelor of science degree in computer engineering in 1986. She also received a master’s degree in corporate finance from La Universidad del Zulia in Venezuela in 1994.
During her guest appearance on the Flipping the Barrel podcast, Evelyn Vilchez shared several valuable insights on navigating a successful career journey.
Let's take a closer look at each of these insights:
✅ 𝐍𝐚𝐯𝐢𝐠𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐫 𝐉𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐞𝐲:
Vilchez's initial career passion was architecture, but due to the unavailability of an institution to study it in Venezuela, she started with Civil Engineering, then pursued Architecture in the USA, but eventually switched to Computer Engineering. Vilchez emphasized that life has a weird way of working out sometimes and that it's essential to be flexible and adaptable to the changing times.
✅ 𝐀𝐝𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐨 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐓𝐢𝐦𝐞𝐬:
Vilchez advised young professionals to be prepared to make a swift career move in the wake of digitalization and sustainability. She recommended using her career navigation journey as a reference and adapting to changing times as a crucial aspect of professional success.
✅ 𝐈𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚 𝐒𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐧𝐞𝐫:
Vilchez shared that having a supportive partner during your career journey is critical, as most of your career success depends on their support. She further explained that your partner's decision in the relationship can influence your career, so it's essential to have their support.
✅ 𝐃𝐨𝐧'𝐭 𝐛𝐞 𝐐𝐮𝐢𝐜𝐤 𝐭𝐨 𝐦𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐫 𝐃𝐞𝐜𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬:
Vilchez urged professionals not to make career decisions on impulse, and instead take time to think them through. She emphasized the importance of having a support system that can provide valuable advice and to have a wider perspective to see things holistically, not just the challenges but the rewards as well.
✅ 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐑𝐨𝐥𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐚 𝐆𝐨𝐨𝐝 𝐌𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐫:
Vilchez highlighted that a good manager can help scale your career, giving you the confidence to take on the role you deserve and providing all the necessary support to help you excel in your career.
✅ 𝐁𝐞𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚 𝐓𝐨𝐩 𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐞𝐫:
Vilchez emphasized that being a top performer in your job is one of the ways to grow in your company, irrespective of gender. She mentioned that top performance can lead to management having trust in your skills and seeing you as capable of leadership positions in the company.
Overall, Vilchez's insights are incredibly valuable, and you can gain more from her by tuning into the Flipping the Barrel podcast. Whether you're a young professional or a seasoned industry leader, Vilchez's insights are sure to inspire you to take your career to the next level.
“Empowering Leadership with Ghassan Mirdad, CEO of Arabian Drilling.”
Apr 12, 2023
Show notes
Empowering Leadership: Building High-Performing Teams
Ghassan Mirdad, CEO of Arabian Drilling
Ghassan Mirdad, the CEO of Arabian Drilling, is a global expert in the oil and gas drilling industry, business operations, and human resources. With 24 years of experience at SLB, Ghassan held leadership roles across four continents and led the global training and development function, upskilling over 100,000 employees worldwide. He's also the Founder and Non-executive Director at AFKAR Ventures, an EnergyTech firm.
Ghassan is passionate about talent development and has sat on various educational advisory boards, and he holds a master’s degree in Leadership and Strategy from London Business School. Forbes ranked him amongst the top 50 most influential executives in the Middle East in 2018 and 2019.
Our latest podcast episode featured Ghassan Mirdad, CEO of Arabian Drilling, Saudi Arabia. During our conversation, Ghassan shared valuable insights on Leadership and Management in the oil & energy industry. Here are some key takeaways:
Ghassan Mirdad, the CEO of Arabian Drilling, is a global expert in the oil and gas drilling industry, business operations, and human resources. With 24 years of experience at SLB, Ghassan held leadership roles across four continents and led the global training and development function, upskilling over 100,000 employees worldwide. He's also the Founder and Non-executive Director at AFKAR Ventures, an EnergyTech firm.
Ghassan is passionate about talent development and has sat on various educational advisory boards, and he holds a master’s degree in Leadership and Strategy from London Business School. Forbes ranked him amongst the top 50 most influential executives in the Middle East in 2018 and 2019.
Our latest podcast episode featured Ghassan Mirdad, CEO of Arabian Drilling, Saudi Arabia. During our conversation, Ghassan shared valuable insights on Leadership and Management in the oil & energy industry. Here are some key takeaways:
✅ 𝐅𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐲 𝐃𝐲𝐧𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐜 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐄𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐲 𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐬:
Ghassan Mirdad shared that his family dynamic and early interests played a vital role in shaping his personality and interests. He attributed his love for science, maths, physics, and chemistry in school to his curiosity about how things worked and his passion for problem-solving. He also mentioned that his father was very supportive of his interests, which helped him develop a sense of confidence and independence from a young age. Additionally, Ghassan discussed his love for sports and photography, which helped him develop teamwork skills and a creative eye.
✅ 𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐫 𝐚𝐭 𝐒𝐋𝐁:
Ghassan Mirdad shared his experience of working at SLB for 24 years, where he held several leadership roles in key countries across four continents: Africa, Asia, Europe, and South America. He discussed how he got started with SLB, mentioning that he first learned about the company at a career fair and landed a summer internship.
Ghassan also shared how he climbed the corporate ladder at SLB by consistently delivering results and demonstrating leadership qualities. He explained how he was given opportunities to take on increasingly challenging roles and how he learned to navigate the complexities of the oil and gas industry. Ghassan emphasized the importance of having a growth mindset and constantly seeking out learning opportunities to develop his skills and expertise.
✅ 𝐎𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐬:
Ghassan Mirdad shared his perspective on how to deal with challenges at work. He emphasized that maintaining a professional attitude and having a learning mindset is crucial, even when dealing with difficult situations where you know you are right and someone else is wrong. Ghassan suggested that it's important to focus on finding solutions to problems rather than getting bogged down by the challenges themselves.
He also emphasized the importance of looking at challenges as opportunities for growth. Ghassan explained that every challenge presents a chance to learn something new and develop skills that can be applied in the future. He advised listeners to approach challenges with an open mind and to be willing to try new approaches, even if they may not work out the first time around.
✅ 𝐏𝐨𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐌𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐒𝐭𝐲𝐥𝐞:
Ghassan Mirdad shared his views on effective management style. He stressed that leaders should focus on giving positive feedback to their team members, encouraging and reinforcing good behavior and work ethics. He also recommended having a growth mindset, which involves being open to new ideas, embracing change, and constantly looking for opportunities to learn and improve.
Furthermore, Ghassan highlighted the importance of focusing on solutions and fixing issues, rather than complaining and dwelling on problems. He encouraged managers to lead by example, taking proactive steps to address challenges and motivate their teams to find solutions
✅ 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 𝐒𝐭𝐲𝐥𝐞:
Ghassan Mirdad shared his perspective on effective leadership style during the podcast. He emphasized that leaders should prioritize building up their team members by providing them with the necessary support and guidance to help them succeed. This involves identifying individual strengths and weaknesses and tailoring their management style to the specific needs of each team member.
Moreover, Ghassan stressed the importance of avoiding unhealthy competition or comparison between team members. He noted that such behavior can lead to resentment and conflicts that can ultimately undermine the effectiveness of the team. Instead, he recommended creating a culture of collaboration, where team members are encouraged to work together to achieve common goals.
We hope these insights from Ghassan Mirdad’s podcast interview have provided valuable information. Don't forget to check out the full podcast episode for more details!🤩🤩
“Inspiring the next generation of female leaders in STEM” with Kimberly Krieger, Chief Operating Officer at BPX.
Apr 04, 2023
Show notes
Kimberly Krieger is the Chief Operating Officer at BPX Energy, BP’s US Onshore Company, where she is accountable for the safe and environmentally responsible delivery of 500,000 bpd equivalent and $2bn in operating cash. As part of the BPX Executive Team, Kim is delivering on a shared vision to disrupt US Onshore Operations with rapid innovation and game changing technologies.
Prior to joining BPX in 2014, Kim held a number of leadership and engineering roles with BP in Alaska, Trinidad, and the Gulf of Mexico that helped shaped the leader she is today. Kim enjoys mentoring, innovation, and values lifelong learning to stay relevant. She holds a BS in Petroleum Engineering from the University of Wyoming and is a 2017 graduate of the Stanford GSB Executive Program. Kim and her husband (Andy) work to balance their demanding careers and treasure family time with their teenage daughters.
Our latest podcast episode featured Kimberly Krieger, the Chief Operating Officer at BPX Energy, BP's US Onshore Company. During our conversation, Kimberly shared valuable insights on women in STEM and the oil & energy industry. Here are some key takeaways:
✅ 𝐒𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐌 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐢𝐧 𝐆𝐢𝐫𝐥𝐬:
According to Kimberly, it's important to spark an interest in STEM fields among girls at a young age. Using visual arts, videos, and colors to explain STEM concepts can be a great way to do this. She also suggests establishing coding boot camps and mentorship programs for girls, especially those in remote areas.
Kimberly shared her experience with building her competency and confidence as a Wellsite leader. She faced some challenges relating to the crew, but instead of using harsh words to pass her message across, she stayed true to herself and worked on having clear communication and relationships with her crew, which helped build her confidence.
✅ 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐢𝐧 𝐚 𝐌𝐚𝐥𝐞 𝐃𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲:
One reason why males scale their careers faster than females in STEM careers is that they have much more clarity about where they want to be. In contrast, females often struggle with clarity, especially when motherhood kicks in and priorities change. To overcome this, Kimberly suggests having a track record of your career successes and making a case for yourself based on your capabilities, not your gender.
✅ 𝐎𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐌𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐝 𝐆𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐭:
Kimberly suggests that having shared parental responsibilities can help younger women navigate motherhood guilt in STEM careers. Parenting shouldn't be a one-way street, and fathers should also take on parenting duties to achieve balance. Having a conversation with your supervisor about flexibility can also help prioritize tasks and make time for family. A nanny can also be helpful.
✅ 𝐔𝐭𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐳𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐌𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩:
Kimberly recommends having real professional conversations on leadership and development skills with mentors to help you have a clear picture of what you want to do with your career. This can help you change your perspective on leadership and debunk myths and theories you may have made up about why you can't achieve your career goals.
With the rise of renewable energy and sustainability, there has been a decrease in interest among younger generations in pursuing careers in the oil and energy industry. Kimberly suggests that outreach and information are important in attracting talent to the industry. The oil and energy industry needs to reach out to campuses and let students know what they are doing and why it matters.
✅ 𝐎𝐧𝐞 𝐩𝐢𝐞𝐜𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐚𝐝𝐯𝐢𝐬𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐠 𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐫𝐬:
Kimberly's advice for young engineers aspiring to work in the oil and energy industry is to be their authentic selves and bring their uniqueness to work. Everyone else is taken, so being true to yourself can set you apart and help you succeed.
We hope these insights from Kimberly Krieger's podcast interview have provided valuable information for women in STEM and those interested in pursuing a career in the oil and energy industry. Don't forget to check out the full podcast episode for more details!🤩🤩
“Taking Risks and Betting on Yourself” with Adam Anderson- CEO of Innovex
Mar 21, 2023
Show notes
Taking Risks and Betting on Yourself: Lessons from a Successful Business Leader
Adam Anderson's extensive career in the oil and gas industry spans over two decades, with a track record of leadership and innovation. As the CEO of Innovex, he has been instrumental in driving efficient and effective solutions for the oilfield, building on his past experiences in senior management positions at Baker Hughes and Team Oil Tools. With a background as an engineer at WellDynamics Inc., Adam has a deep understanding of completions and production technology in the oil and gas industry. He holds a B.S. in Petroleum Engineering from the prestigious Colorado School of Mines and an MBA from Duke University. Adam's journey to the top of the industry is a testament to his skills, hard work and dedication. His insights and perspectives on the industry are invaluable to anyone seeking to make a mark in the field.
This podcast episode is packed with valuable insights and advice from Adam Anderson. If you want to learn more about his journey and how to build a successful career in the oil and gas industry, make sure to tune in! 📻🎧
Here are some highlights from this Episode!
✅ Career Transition:
Adam Anderson shared his journey of transitioning from a chemical engineer to a petroleum engineer. He also provided advice for students who are considering the transition from oil and gas to renewable energy. He emphasized that oil and gas careers are still relevant, and there is constant technological advancement in the field. It is important for students to understand the value of their skills and experience and how they can be applied in different sectors.
✅ Taking Risks:
Anderson also emphasized the importance of taking risks and betting on oneself. He advised taking on important jobs that others may not want to do. This can help individuals build their skills and gain valuable experience that can set them apart from their peers.
✅ Building a Strong Team:
Anderson highlighted the importance of having a strong support system to achieve success. Building a team with diverse skills and experiences can help individuals achieve their goals faster and more efficiently.
✅ Branding in Business:
Anderson also discussed the importance of branding in business. He shared his experience of bringing three companies with different cultures together through branding. It is important to define what your brand represents to your employees and clients, as it can help build trust and loyalty.
✅ Diversity and Inclusion:
Anderson stressed the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace. Having a diverse team can lead to more innovative and creative solutions, as well as better decision-making.
✅ Positive Impact of Oil and Gas Industry:
Anderson also discussed the importance of recognizing the positive impact of the oil and gas industry. He emphasized the fundamental role that oil and gas products play in our daily lives, and why it is important to advocate for the positive impact of the industry.
Overall, the podcast provides valuable insights for individuals looking to transition their careers, build a strong team, and understand the importance of branding and diversity in business. Listeners are encouraged to tune in to the podcast to gain more insights from Adam Anderson.
In addition, the podcast also invites the audience to attend the upcoming "Fossil Fuel Celebration" on April 18th, hosted by Innovex. This event will be a great opportunity to learn more about the oil and gas industry and connect with professionals in the field.
Tune in to learn more about Adams Anderson Career journey!
“Failure is simply success in progress” with Richard Lynch- SVP Technologies and Services at HESS Corporation.
Mar 13, 2023
Show notes
LISTEN NOW!!
From internships to leadership: learn from Richard Lynch's journey in the oil and energy
Richard Lynch is Senior Vice President, Technology and Services for Hess Corporation, a leading global independent energy company engaged in the exploration and production of crude oil and natural gas. In this role, Lynch is responsible for functional delivery of field development, major infrastructure, drilling and completions projects and driving functional excellence through standards, processes, technology and talent management.
Prior to joining Hess in April 2014, Lynch spent 14 years with BP, most recently as Vice President, Global Wells Organization where he was responsible for the safe, compliant and reliable delivery of all upstream activities associated with drilling, completions, interventions and wellbore integrity. Under Lynch’s leadership, the organization built the Containment Response System to shut-in a well in the event of an uncontrollable leak, created the BP Global Wells Institute to develop the technical expertise of employees and contractors, and established new drilling and completion standards and policies following the Gulf of Mexico Deepwater Horizon incident. Lynch holds a bachelor’s degree in Petroleum Engineering from the University of Wyoming.
Richard recently shared his insights and experiences on the "Flipping the Barrel" podcast, he provided listeners with valuable advice on navigating a successful career in this dynamic field. You should definitely tune in. 📻🎧
Here are some highlights from this Episode!
✅ Family Background:
Richard Lynch's family background in the oil and gas industry had a significant impact on his career choice. Growing up, he was exposed to the industry through his father's work as a drilling engineer. This early exposure and understanding of the industry shaped his interest in petroleum engineering, which ultimately led him to pursue a degree in this field. However, despite the clear path that was laid out for him, Lynch recognizes the importance of keeping an open mind and being willing to explore different opportunities.
✅ Bridging the gap with internships:
Richard Lynch stressed the significance of internships in bridging the gap between theoretical classroom learning and practical industry experience. According to Lynch, internships provide students with hands-on opportunities to apply their skills, gain industry-specific knowledge, and develop valuable professional skills that are critical for success in the workforce. Drawing on his personal experience, Lynch shared how his own internship provided him with an excellent opportunity to improve his communication and collaboration skills. Through his internship, Lynch learned how to work effectively in a team setting and communicate technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders. He further explained that these skills were essential in his career and that without his internship experience, he would have struggled to succeed in the industry.
✅ Adapting to different cultures:
Richard emphasized the importance of adapting to different cultures in today's globalized business world. He shared his experiences of working in different locations around the world and how it was challenging to adapt to different cultures. However, he highlighted that embracing diversity is essential to succeed in the global energy industry. Richard shared how he learned to appreciate the different perspectives that people from diverse backgrounds bring to the table. He emphasized that it is important to have an open mind and be willing to learn from others. He stressed the need to communicate effectively with people from different cultures and to understand their values and beliefs to build strong working relationships.
✅ Qualities of successful leaders:
Richard Lynch believes that the qualities of a successful leader include effective communication, approachability, and listening skills. He has developed these skills over time by working in various locations and cultures around the world. Richard highlights that successful leaders need to be able to communicate effectively with their team and stakeholders, listen actively to their concerns, and be approachable to build trust and respect. These qualities are essential to lead a successful team and achieve business goals.
✅ Promoting diversity in the workplace:
Richard discussed the importance of promoting women in STEM and helping them attain leadership roles in the oil and energy industry. He emphasized the need for male allies to advocate for women in STEM and help effect change.
✅ Self-evaluation for success:
Richard talked about the importance of self-evaluation and how it can help you overcome difficult situations at work. He emphasized the need to delegate tasks to colleagues who have more skills in certain areas and focus on your own strengths.
✅ OIl and Energy skill set for the future:
Richard discussed how traditional oil and gas skills are transferable to the renewable energy industry. He talked about how young engineers should focus on researching technologies to reduce emissions issues related to oil and gas production and embrace the opportunities in the growing renewable energy field.
Overall, Richard's extensive experience in the oil and energy industry provides a wealth of knowledge for listeners. Tune in to the Flipping the Barrel podcast to gain valuable insights and practical advice for navigating a career in this industry.
“From Legal Counsel to Chief Legal Officer: Journey to the top of the Energy Industry” with Dianne Ralston- Chief Legal Officer at SLB.
Mar 08, 2023
Show notes
LISTEN NOW!!
From Legal Counsel to Chief Legal Officer: Dianne Ralston’s Journey to the top of the Energy Industry.
Dianne Ralston began her career at SLB in 1998, initially serving as legal counsel. As her career progressed, she became director of compliance and then deputy general counsel, specializing in IP enforcement.
Over the next few years, she held executive leadership positions at companies throughout the energy services sector, including serving as executive vice president, chief legal officer, and secretary at TechnipFMC. In 2020, she rejoined SLB as chief legal officer, a position in which she continues to serve.
Dianne has bachelor’s degrees in Business Administration and Operations Management from Texas A&M University, as well as a JD in law from the University of Houston Law Center.
Looking to advance your career in the energy industry? Look no further than Dianne Ralston, Chief Legal Officer at Schlumberger, who recently shared her insights on the 'Flipping the Barrel' podcast. From navigating a career in oil and gas with degrees in business administration and law, to overcoming stereotypes targeting women in STEM, Dianne has some valuable advice to share. 👩🏼⚖️👷🏼♀️
Here are some of the highlights from the podcast:
✅ 𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐫 𝐍𝐚𝐯𝐢𝐠𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧:
Dianne shared how she went from studying business administration and law to building a successful career in oil and gas. She also offered advice on how to make a smooth transition into the industry, even if you don't have a technical background.
✅ 𝐎𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐨𝐭𝐲𝐩𝐞𝐬:
Women in STEM fields often face stereotypes and biases, and Dianne shared some of her strategies for overcoming these challenges. From being confident in your abilities to building strong relationships with colleagues, she has some great tips for women looking to succeed in energy.
✅ 𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐫 𝐋𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐨𝐧𝐬:
Dianne's journey to the top of the energy industry was not without its challenges. However, she learned valuable lessons along the way, including the importance of doing a good job, being authentic, cultivating your personal brand, leveraging organizational systems and resources to showcase your career, and being open to opportunities outside your comfort zone.
✅ 𝐌𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠:
Dianne shared her thoughts on effective mentoring programs and how to ensure that they are beneficial for both the mentor and the mentee. She cautioned against "forced" mentoring relationships and shared strategies for helping mentees make the most of their mentoring experiences.
✅ 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐤-𝐋𝐢𝐟𝐞 𝐁𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞:
Dianne also spoke about the challenges of being a working mom and spouse, and how she balances her personal and professional responsibilities.
If you're looking for some career inspiration, Dianne's interview on the "Flipping the Barrel" podcast is a must-listen 🔈🔈. Don't miss out on her valuable insights on navigating the energy industry and building a successful career.
“I don’t believe in Work-Life Balance” with Celine Gerson President of the Americas at Fugro.
Feb 27, 2023
Show notes
At a young age Celine’s parents began to teach her the deeply rooted family values and principles they follow. She lived by these principles throughout her career and life. The three values she continues to follow today is - Think outside the box, the importance of taking risks and nothing is Impossible. Knowing this was her mantra, makes a lot of sense as to how she became the first woman in Cameron to run a Global division and then went on to become the President of Schlumberger Canada.
Celine didn’t grow up following the crowd. When she graduated from University in France all her friends were taking safe jobs with bigger companies, she decided to travel across the pond and go work for a smaller trading company in Houston.
She talks about building your “Brand” and the importance of knowing who you are and how you want to be perceived. She always took calculated risk that showcased her strengths. Her Brand was built around the ability to break down barriers and bring silos together. Why you should take calculated risks is because the minute you are comfortable you are not showcasing what you are good at.
We talk about challenge status quo; Celine agrees the industry is changing and we need to be ahead of it. Know what you stand for, there should be complete alignment between what people see you as and who you really are. She goes in to talk about how having a board of advisors is crucial in your career and how to identify these mentors.
Celine started Powered by Women in Canada, to change the public image of oil and gas in Canada. She had 40 plus executives involved where they worked on changing the narrative and touching the heart of the public, to change their thoughts on oil and gas. They used social media and influencers to market the movement, it was and still is a huge success! She talks about an amazing story where she completely changed the mind of an activist on the spot. You must hear this!
In this episode, she provides her insight on work life balance and how real balance is the one you choose for yourself. She talks about finding your “True North”. Understanding your “True North” is life changing, she describes all the steps to get there. Knowing this you will have perfect alignment with your mission. To perform at your best, you must understand what you really want, deep down.
If your interested in working with us, please contact : flippingthebarrel@gmail.com
“Go, find where you belong” with Matt Kolesar, Chief Environmental Scientist at ExxonMobil.
Feb 21, 2023
Show notes
LISTEN NOW!!
Matt Kolesar is the Chief Environmental Scientist at ExxonMobil. In that role, he leads global advocacy and issue management of methane and flaring, as well as managing corporate sustainability focus areas for water, land and habitat, and operational waste. As Chief Environmental Scientist, he provides advanced expert technical leadership consultation and advice to senior leaders on sustainability topics central to business decisions and priorities. Throughout his 24-year career with ExxonMobil, Matt has held a variety of leadership positions at ExxonMobil in the Upstream, Downstream and Chemicals businesses. Matt has B.S. in Chemical Engineering from The University of Akron, Ohio, and is an avid runner.
Having Matt as a guest on our Podcast was such an interesting opportunity as we held insightful conversations as relates career.
Here are some highlights from this Episode! To get the full experience kindly tune in 📻🎧
Matt shared that as a young graduate looking for career opportunities, putting yourself out there is necessary if you want to achieve anything terrific in your life, whether it's getting that promotion or a great job opportunity. Being an Average Athlete and an Average Engineer, didn’t stop Matt from advocating for himself during his early career days. Matt shared that he ensured his professional network are aware of his skills and areas he can add value to an organization.
When you put yourself out there, people are going to be able to find you and learn about your capabilities.😃👷♂️📚
Matt shared that employees are often hardwired to want to do things on their own and be independent-minded. Asking for help often makes them feel uneasy because it requires surrendering control to someone else. They don't want to be ashamed of their situation, or come across as incompetent or weak.
According to Matt, One of the nice things in business is that we actually have a system called delegation, if you have a team of people, you can delegate to them, and that's an acceptable way of asking for help.This requires having really wide-open lines of communication.
Although it’s not conscious or intentional, our brain has naturally picked up on the pattern of seeing and hearing about more men in STEM, so when you think “STEM” you think “men”.
According to Matt, some implicit biases that go unchecked or unchallenged can perpetuate harmful stereotypes that ultimately play a role in our social systems, contributing to problems like the systemic under-representation of women and other minorities in STEM.
Going forward, we all need to be mindful of the ways we may label or stereotype activities and identities to avoid negatively influencing children’s interests or discouraging their participation. Also, Matt shared that promoting Women in STEM’s achievements on social media is a useful way to break the gender bias thereby providing mentors for younger girls in STEM professions.
Time blocking can promote a healthy work-life integration. When you set aside time to work, that means you are also setting aside time for your personal life.
Matt shared that with calendar blocking, you create dedicated time for everything on your professional and personal to-do list; instead of trying to find time in the day to get things done, you’re creating time to get things done—which can help you prioritize the things that are most important to you, both at work and at home.
Calendar blocking and communicating your priorities to your colleagues can help set good boundaries. Matt’s relationship with his daughter was a good example on the effective use of calendar blocking to achieve work-life balance.
We can keep going on and on about just HOW amazing his story is, but we will let you tune in and find out for yourself😄
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