Gary shares his journey from treasury and finance into technology leadership roles at Baker Hughes, Oracle, Noble Energy, and Chevron, offering a unique perspective on how business, operations, and technology intersect across the energy industry.

Together, Jon and Gary explore how oil and gas has quietly remained one of the world’s most technologically advanced industries, from early geoscience computing to today’s rapid acceleration of AI and automation. They discuss where AI can create the most value, why operational systems matter more than back-office efficiency alone, and how companies should think about innovation, safety, and competitive advantage in a carbon-conscious world.

The conversation also dives into leadership, career development, technology adoption cycles, and the importance of combining technical expertise with business understanding to build lasting impact in the industry.

Whether you work in energy, technology, or operations, this episode offers an insightful look at where the industry is headed and the mindset needed to navigate what comes next.

Mike shares lessons from his Marine Corps background, his 26-year career at ExxonMobil, global leadership across more than 20 countries, and the pressure of leading major projects when the stakes are high. From goats in first class to billion-dollar capital decisions, this episode captures the humor, grit, and perspective that only a career spent across the field, boardroom, and global energy stage can provide.

Drawing from decades in both industry and academia, Olson shares lessons from his time at Mobil, his 30-year career at UT Austin, and his experience developing the next generation of engineers. The conversation explores career advice for young professionals, the role of regulation, what truly defines “core work” in an oil and gas company, and how AI and automation are reshaping the industry.

They also dive into the future of LNG, global energy dynamics, and the balance between efficiency, innovation, and long-term value creation.

This is a candid and thoughtful discussion about leadership, technology, and why fundamentals still matter, even as the industry continues to evolve.

Drawing on decades of experience across Mobil, Aera Energy, ExxonMobil, BHP Billiton, and Cobalt, Rod shares practical advice for younger professionals, including why ambition is not a dirty word, why excellence still matters, and how strong teams are built over time.

Jon and Rod also revisit lessons from heavy oil and shale, discuss the challenges of remote work and mentorship, and explore how the industry is evolving through technology, automation, and changing workforce expectations.

This episode sets the tone for what Uncapped is all about: honest, experience-based conversations with executives who have led through complexity and still have plenty to say.

In this intro episode, Jon shares the vision behind the podcast, his journey into the oil and gas industry, and why now is the time for more honest, unfiltered conversations with the people who have actually led it.

This is not another industry podcast filled with headlines and surface-level takes.

Uncapped is about real experience, real perspective, and the kind of insight you only get from decades in the field.

If you’ve ever wanted to understand how oil and gas executives actually think, this is where it starts.