What The Funk?

Running a company that’s shaking up oil and gas with AI is wild enough, but try doing that on zero sleep with a newborn in the house. That’s life for Josh Politte, who somehow manages to lead ACT Solutions & Consulting while changing diapers and dodging spit-up. He shares stories from a globe-spanning career (50+ countries!), the year Egypt cracked open his worldview, and how he went from petroleum engineer to Microsoft-powered problem solver. We get into why tech in this industry actually matters, how AI isn't just a buzzword, and why being a new dad might just be the ultimate crash course in leadership.Click here to watch a video of this episode.Join the conversation shaping the future of energy.Collide is the community where oil & gas professionals connect, share insights, and solve real-world problems together. No noise. No fluff. Just the discussions that move our industry forward.Apply today at collide.ioClick here to view the episode transcript. 00:00 - Intro01:40 - Who is Josh Pape11:02 - Josh’s Career Journey: College to Business16:23 - Technical Skills Development18:55 - Leading Digital Transformation at BHP23:35 - Experience as Interim CTO at Digital Wildcatters25:06 - Passion for the Microsoft Stack30:51 - Insights on AI Technology37:24 - Loving Your Work: A Personal Reflection38:00 - Future Vision: Company Goals in 3-5 Years41:39 - Hot Seat Questions: Rapid Fire Round45:10 - How to Connect with Joshhttps://twitter.com/collide_iohttps://www.tiktok.com/@collide.iohttps://www.facebook.com/collide.iohttps://www.instagram.com/collide.iohttps://www.youtube.com/@collide_iohttps://bsky.app/profile/digitalwildcatters.bsky.socialhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/collide-digital-wildcatters

What happens when two sharp minds from the oilfield and IT world team up to fix the clunky data problems plaguing oil and gas? You get Rivitt, an AI-powered game-changer that’s tackling inefficiencies, boosting safety, and making ops smoother than a fresh cup of frac fluid. Jeremy sits down with the brains behind it, Steven and Clay, to talk about scrappy beginnings, bold ideas, and how a little bit of stubbornness (and a whole lot of late nights) turned into a tech company that’s shaking up the industry.Click here to watch a video of this episode.Join the conversation shaping the future of energy.Collide is the community where oil & gas professionals connect, share insights, and solve real-world problems together. No noise. No fluff. Just the discussions that move our industry forward.Apply today at collide.ioClick here to view the episode transcript. 00:00 - Intro01:09 - Steve Ko Introduction07:02 - Steve Ko's First Business09:42 - Returning to School and Second Business10:18 - Clay Bonin's Background17:06 - Steve Ko's Background24:50 - Steve Ko's Career Path26:39 - Understanding Worms28:53 - Knowledge of Paper Mills35:40 - Steve's Journey to Rice Energy41:47 - Innovation at Rice Energy47:08 - Early Days of Rivitt Energy47:35 - Meeting Clay Bonin49:12 - Problem Solving at Rivitt 54:28 - Steve's Impact on Rivitt 58:14 - Vision for Rivitt 1:00:56 - Steve as a Visionary1:05:35 - Final Thoughts1:05:45 - More Information about Rivitt 1:06:25 - Outrohttps://twitter.com/collide_iohttps://www.tiktok.com/@collide.iohttps://www.facebook.com/collide.iohttps://www.instagram.com/collide.iohttps://www.youtube.com/@collide_iohttps://bsky.app/profile/digitalwildcatters.bsky.socialhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/collide-digital-wildcatters

Alzheimer’s is tough, but this episode is all about the people fighting back in the most unexpected ways, like hopping on a bike and riding for something bigger. We sat down with Brian from the Alzheimer’s Association and Steve, a cyclist whose mom’s diagnosis lit a fire in him to make a difference. From emotional stories to groundbreaking updates (think blood tests and FDA-approved meds), we cover the science, the personal, and the power of pedaling with purpose. Whether you're in it for the community, the cause, or the ride itself, this one’s got heart, hope, and a whole lot of impact.Click here to watch a video of this episode. Join the conversation shaping the future of energy.Collide is the community where oil & gas professionals connect, share insights, and solve real-world problems together. No noise. No fluff. Just the discussions that move our industry forward.Apply today at collide.ioClick here to view the episode transcript. 00:00 - Intro01:22 - Who are Steve Mullen and Brian Tatum05:32 - Brian Tatum's Involvement with Alzheimer's Association07:54 - Alzheimer's Research and Funding Updates11:04 - Early Signs of Alzheimer’s Disease12:38 - Steve's Passion for Alzheimer's Advocacy15:55 - End ALZ Ride Overview20:09 - Experience of Riding in the End ALZ Ride26:06 - Competing for Donation Dollars in Alzheimer's Research29:25 - Progress with FDA Approved Alzheimer's Drugs29:55 - How to Donate to Alzheimer's Causes33:07 - End ALZ Ride Details: Date and Location35:08 - Future of Alzheimer's Research in 10 Years38:14 - Ride Distances in the End ALZ Event39:24 - How to Get Involved in Alzheimer's Advocacy39:50 - Closing Thoughts on Alzheimer's Awarenesshttps://twitter.com/collide_iohttps://www.tiktok.com/@collide.iohttps://www.facebook.com/collide.iohttps://www.instagram.com/collide.iohttps://www.youtube.com/@collide_iohttps://bsky.app/profile/digitalwildcatters.bsky.socialhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/collide-digital-wildcatters

What do you get when a lifelong pilot and a fashion industry pro team up? Skycam Aviation, that’s what, an aerial imaging company that’s flipping the script on how we track methane leaks and monitor the world from above. They’re strapping HD video systems onto planes, zipping through the skies at 15,000 feet, and collecting jaw-dropping footage packed with data that actually matters. From detecting methane in oil fields to keeping tabs on agriculture and infrastructure, their gear isn’t just smart, it’s downright cinematic. Plus, their story is wild: think private jets, high fashion, and high-tech all mashed into one seriously cool origin story.Click here to watch a video of this episode.Join the conversation shaping the future of energy.Collide is the community where oil & gas professionals connect, share insights, and solve real-world problems together. No noise. No fluff. Just the discussions that move our industry forward.Apply today at collide.ioClick here to view the episode transcript. 00:00 - Intro00:53 - Meet Sam and Christine03:14 - Sam’s Flying Experience06:19 - Christine’s Flying Experience14:15 - [Duplicate Chapter Removed]14:28 - Christine Corcos’s Fashion Background19:55 - The Slippery Slope of Fashion23:04 - Skycam Aviation Overview29:05 - Methane Detection Technology31:58 - The Fashion Show Story32:05 - Wrapping Up the Discussion35:44 - Advice to Your Younger Self40:40 - Sam’s Fashion Journey41:54 - How to Find Skycam42:54 - Final Thoughts and Wordshttps://twitter.com/collide_iohttps://www.tiktok.com/@collide.iohttps://www.facebook.com/collide.iohttps://www.instagram.com/collide.iohttps://www.youtube.com/@collide_iohttps://bsky.app/profile/digitalwildcatters.bsky.socialhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/collide-digital-wildcatters

From growing up in Oklahoma with two teachers for parents to making waves in the oil and gas world, Drew Hopkins has built a career on reputation, relationships, and a whole lot of hustle. He went from Chesapeake Energy to co-founding LIS and now leading business development at Novus, and along the way, he’s picked up some hard-earned wisdom about building a winning culture, driving responsible growth, and keeping your values in check while chasing big goals. This one’s packed with stories, lessons, and a few laughs as Drew shares what it really takes to make an impact in the energy industry.Click here to watch a video of this episode.Join the conversation shaping the future of energy.Collide is the community where oil & gas professionals connect, share insights, and solve real-world problems together. No noise. No fluff. Just the discussions that move our industry forward.Apply today at collide.ioClick here to view the episode transcript. 00:00 - Intro03:00 - Who is Drew Hopkins07:58 - Impact of Teacher Parents11:47 - Lessons from Teaching Background18:01 - Transitioning to Novus18:50 - Land Information System (LIS)20:50 - Origin of What the Frac Podcast23:50 - Importance of Consistency27:55 - What the Frac Booth at NAPE31:36 - Overview of LandVantage36:34 - LIS and Sales Experience38:11 - Novus Consulting Insights45:09 - Responsible Growth Strategies51:35 - Favorite Restaurants in OKC52:58 - Jake's Schedule Update54:28 - True Vacations vs. Trips57:25 - Drew Hopkins in the Doghouse1:02:03 - Connect with Drew Hopkins Online1:04:10 - Outrohttps://twitter.com/collide_iohttps://www.tiktok.com/@collide.iohttps://www.facebook.com/collide.iohttps://www.instagram.com/collide.iohttps://www.youtube.com/@collide_iohttps://bsky.app/profile/digitalwildcatters.bsky.socialhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/collide-digital-wildcatters

Sales engineering isn’t just about numbers and tech, it’s about people, problem-solving, and, surprisingly, a little bit of soul. This episode of *What the Funk?* brings in Darnell Franco from Detechtion Technologies, a guy who knows his way around compressor fleets *and* the complexities of being human. From breaking down digital twins and edge computing in oil and gas to sharing why mental health and "soul compensation" matter just as much as a paycheck, Darnell keeps it real. If you've ever wondered how to juggle the technical grind with personal growth (without burning out), this one’s for you.Click here to watch a video of this episode.Join the conversation shaping the future of energy.Collide is the community where oil & gas professionals connect, share insights, and solve real-world problems together. No noise. No fluff. Just the discussions that move our industry forward.Apply today at collide.ioClick here to view the episode transcript. 00:00 - Intro01:40 - Who is Darnell Franco07:00 - Balancing Team Dynamics13:16 - Addressing Burnout15:28 - Advice for Your Younger Self20:07 - Overview of Detechtion Technologies23:14 - Understanding Detection Solutions26:38 - Exploring the Edge Technology28:25 - Detection's Approach to AI30:30 - Digital Twin and Dashboard Insights34:31 - Impact of Detection on Oil and Gas38:30 - Choosing the Right Compressor Size48:03 - Qualities of a Great Sales Engineer52:47 - Simplifying Complex Topics54:54 - Connecting with Darnell Franco56:59 - Podcast Wrap-Uphttps://twitter.com/collide_iohttps://www.tiktok.com/@collide.iohttps://www.facebook.com/collide.iohttps://www.instagram.com/collide.iohttps://www.youtube.com/@collide_iohttps://bsky.app/profile/digitalwildcatters.bsky.socialhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/collide-digital-wildcatters

Real-time data is changing the game in oil and gas, and SigmaStream is leading the charge. Jeremy and Hari Koduru talk about how their high-frequency data tech is shaking up drilling operations, making things faster, smarter, and way more efficient. Hari shares his journey from India to engineering to founding SigmaStream, breaking down the wild ride of building a company that thrives on precision data. We get into why split-second analytics matter, how better data leads to better decisions, and where all of this is headed—including some surprising moves into geothermal. If you’re into the mix of tech, problem-solving, and energy, this one’s for you.Join the conversation shaping the future of energy.Collide is the community where oil & gas professionals connect, share insights, and solve real-world problems together. No noise. No fluff. Just the discussions that move our industry forward.Apply today at collide.ioClick here to watch a video of this episode. Click here to view the episode transcript. 00:00 - Intro01:23 - Who is Hari Koduru06:34 - Growing Up in India07:35 - Moving to the US10:18 - Career at Esri13:27 - AAA Experience17:08 - Starting Your Own Company19:54 - Understanding Southern Hospitality22:08 - Waste Management Project Timeline22:59 - First Job in Oil and Gas24:30 - Importance of Maps in Industry26:13 - Career Start at Neighbors Drilling30:10 - WITSML Technology36:10 - Overview of SigmaStream40:13 - SigmaStream Clientele43:18 - Applicability to Geothermal Drilling45:16 - Hobbies Outside of Work47:00 - Advice for Younger Self51:10 - Branding Insights52:05 - Favorite Restaurants in Houston54:24 - Connecting with Hari55:05 - Wrapping Uphttps://twitter.com/collide_iohttps://www.tiktok.com/@collide.iohttps://www.facebook.com/collide.iohttps://www.instagram.com/collide.iohttps://www.youtube.com/@collide_iohttps://bsky.app/profile/digitalwildcatters.bsky.socialhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/collide-digital-wildcatters

Collecting fossils in Nebraska as a kid kicked off a lifelong passion for geology that took Jason Eleson from exploring for oil and gas with Exxon to championing carbon capture, hydrogen storage, and geothermal projects in his current role at Sproule. With a knack for nonlinear thinking and over two decades of experience, he’s navigated the ups and downs of both massive corporations and nimble startups—always hungry to adapt and learn. His fascination with what’s hidden beneath the surface drives fresh approaches to CCS, helium exploration, and beyond, while bipartisan support could hold the key to shaping a more sustainable, forward-looking energy sector.Join the conversation shaping the future of energy.Collide is the community where oil & gas professionals connect, share insights, and solve real-world problems together. No noise. No fluff. Just the discussions that move our industry forward.Apply today at collide.ioClick here to view the episode transcript. 00:00 - Intro01:02 - Who is Jason09:04 - Growing up in Nebraska11:24 - Chaterin’s Education12:04 - Jason’s Zoom Call18:19 - Jason’s Skin Moisture Inflation18:24 - Jason’s Career Path19:35 - Jason’s Time at Exxon21:08 - Moving to Denver23:35 - Leaving ExxonMobil28:10 - PTSD of Moving with Kids31:22 - Starting a Career in Oil and Gas34:34 - Neos Geo Solutions Overview42:50 - Sproule Company Insights45:35 - Jason's Role at Sproule45:45 - Understanding Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS)48:50 - Carbon Capture and Hydrogen under Trump54:22 - What's Next for Matt56:06 - Where to Find Jason56:19 - Outrohttps://twitter.com/collide_iohttps://www.tiktok.com/@collide.iohttps://www.facebook.com/collide.iohttps://www.instagram.com/collide.iohttps://www.youtube.com/@collide_iohttps://bsky.app/profile/digitalwildcatters.bsky.socialhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/collide-digital-wildcatters