What makes West Texas networking different from anywhere else?

In this episode of The Crude Truth, Rey Trevino sits down with Derrick Black, a respected oil & gas professional, community leader, and founder of Coffee & Connections. Derrick shares his journey from telecommunications with AT&T to building a successful career in the Permian Basin, while using his passion for networking to connect people, businesses, and nonprofits throughout West Texas.

The conversation explores the culture of the Permian Basin, the importance of authentic relationships, the impact of community involvement, and how strong networks can create opportunities both inside and outside the oilfield. Derrick also discusses his work with local nonprofits, his commitment to leaving a meaningful legacy, and an exciting new venture that could bring innovative production technology to the industry.

In This Episode:
✔️ Derrick Black's journey into oil & gas
✔️ Why networking is critical for career growth
✔️ The story behind Coffee & Connections
✔️ Supporting local nonprofits in West Texas
✔️ The unique culture of the Permian Basin
✔️ Leadership, legacy, and community impact
✔️ Future opportunities in the energy industry

Whether you're in oil & gas, business development, sales, or simply looking to build stronger professional relationships, this episode offers valuable insights on creating meaningful connections that drive success.

Connect with Derrick on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derrickblackbdm/

#TheCrudeTruth #OilAndGas #PermianBasin #WestTexas #Networking #Leadership #energyindustry #communityimpact #businessdevelopment #oilfieldservices #energyleadership #professionalgrowth #podcast

Check out LFS Chemistry Sponsor of the Crude Truth here: https://lfschemistry.com/

Follow Rey on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reytrevinoiii/

Also, Pecos Operating Website: https://pecosoperating.com/

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https://www.realnewspr.com/

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This was a fun interview with Congresswoman Beth Van Duyne on my recent trip to Washington, DC. I had some great meetings, and she is doing great things for her constituents. Here is just some of the key points we covered.

1. American Energy Independence & Oil Production
The interview emphasizes Texas's historical and ongoing role in American energy. It references the 1901 Spindletop discovery and argues that despite alternative energy sources (wind, solar, electric), America still fundamentally depends on oil. The discussion highlights the importance of supporting American oil producers and maintaining competitive global positioning.

2. The Strait of Hormuz & Middle East Conflict
Congresswoman Van Dyen discusses the geopolitical tensions affecting oil prices, particularly the conflict in the Middle East. She explains the administration's goals regarding preventing a terrorist regime (Iran) from obtaining nuclear weapons, while also emphasizing the desire to exit the conflict as soon as possible.

3. Gas Prices & Economic Impact
The interview addresses current high gas prices and their effect on consumers. However, Van Dyen points out that gas prices are actually lower now compared to the Biden administration, attributing this to increased American oil production and reduced regulatory barriers for producers.

4. Tax Cuts & Regulatory Reform
A significant focus is on the reconciliation bill that included tax cuts and regulatory reductions, specifically benefiting American energy producers. The congresswoman discusses plans for a second reconciliation package to continue this work and help people "keep more of what they make."

5. Inflation & Wage Growth
The discussion touches on inflation concerns and highlights a positive trend: wages are now outpacing inflation for the first time in years, which the administration aims to sustain.

6. Capitol Hill Internships & Political Engagement
The interview concludes with a lighter discussion about young people entering politics through internships, emphasizing the value of Capitol Hill experience as a career foundation and networking opportunity.

Follow Congresswoman Beth Van Duyne's work on her website https://vanduyne.house.gov/

Check out LFS Chemistry Sponsor of the Crude Truth here: https://lfschemistry.com/

Follow Rey on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reytrevinoiii/

Also, Pecos Operating Website: https://pecosoperating.com/

Also, the great Production team at Real News Public Relations

https://www.realnewspr.com/

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