Episodes
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In this episode of Energy Sector Heroes, I speak with Lyndon Frearson, an electrical engineer whose career has been shaped by problem-solving in complex environments. Lyndon shares how taking non-traditional career paths, working in remote locations, and saying yes to unexpected opportunities have influenced his work in renewable energy and infrastructure.
For those of you navigating the early stages of your career—or considering a shift—this conversation is a must-listen. Whether you're an engineer, a project manager, or a professional looking to step off the beaten path, Lyndon's experiences offer valuable lessons on making career decisions with purpose.
Key Takeaways✅ Be intensely curious
📖 Your first few jobs aren’t about climbing the ladder; they’re about learning. Take time to deeply understand your industry, ask why things work the way they do, and engage with those who’ve been in the field for years.
✅ Say yes to opportunities—even when they’re outside your job description
🔧 Some of the best career moves aren’t planned. Being open to unexpected roles or projects can expose you to new skills, industries, and leadership paths that aren’t on a traditional trajectory.
✅ Look beyond technical expertise—context is everything
🌏 Being a great engineer (or professional in any field) isn’t just about having the right answers. It’s about understanding the environment, people, and constraints that shape real-world solutions. The best ideas come from those who take time to listen and adapt.
🎧 Listen now to learn how Lyndon transformed his career by stepping off the expected path—and how you can apply the same principles to your own journey.
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In this episode of Energy Sector Heroes, I welcome back Sabina Nawaz, CEO, leadership coach, keynote speaker, and now author of You're the Boss: Become the Manager You Want to Be and Others Need. Whether you're managing a small team, leading at the executive level, or aspiring to a leadership role, this conversation is packed with practical strategies to help you navigate the challenges of leadership under pressure.
Sabina shares insights from her upcoming book, discussing how pressure and power influence leadership and how to bridge the gap between managers and their teams. We also talk about actionable ways to build trust, reduce power dynamics, and grow as a leader.
🎯 Key Takeaways:Recognize Your Pressure Triggers
Identify what pressures you the most (e.g., public speaking, high workloads) and proactively create strategies to manage them before they affect your actions.
Ask the Right Questions to Get Real Feedback
To avoid vague responses, ask your team focused questions like: What’s one thing I did well? What’s one thing I could improve? Create an environment of trust and consistency to encourage honesty.
Delegate Strategically, Not Abruptly
Think of delegation as a gradual process. Start with close guidance and slowly adjust as your team builds confidence and capability, using the “delegation dial” as your guide.
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Missing episodes?
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In this episode of Energy Sector Heroes, I speak with Christopher Springham, a global communications and sustainability expert with experience spanning oil and gas, renewables, and corporate leadership. His journey from working with major oil companies to championing sustainability provides valuable insights into how the energy sector is evolving.
We discuss the shift from fossil fuels to cleaner alternatives, the challenges of corporate responsibility, and how businesses can truly commit to sustainability beyond marketing promises. Christopher also shares his thoughts on how young professionals can build meaningful careers in energy while making a positive impact on the planet.
🎯 Key Takeaways:The Energy Sector Must Take Responsibility for Its Impact
The industry has historically invested in climate denial, but the path forward is clear: those who created the problem are best positioned to help fix it. Instead of resisting change, companies should use their resources and expertise to lead the transition.
Sustainability Creates Business Value
Going green isn’t just about ethics—it’s a smarter way to operate. Companies that prioritize sustainability tend to be more efficient, reduce waste, and improve profitability.
The Next Generation Has the Power to Drive Change
Young professionals entering the sector should focus on innovation, challenge outdated ways of thinking, and push for more accountability from industry leaders. There’s a growing demand for sustainable solutions, and those who embrace them will shape the future.
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This week on Energy Sector Heroes, I sit down with Dave Latin, a chairman and non-executive director with decades of leadership experience across the energy sector. Whether you're just starting out, transitioning careers, or aiming for leadership, this episode offers practical advice on navigating change, building resilience, and staying adaptable in a fast-evolving industry.
Dave shares how he transitioned from academia to a dynamic energy career, the challenges of leading diverse teams, and the importance of staying “above the line” to cultivate a positive mindset. If you're looking to grow in your career while staying grounded, this conversation is full of actionable takeaways.
🎯 Key Takeaways:Embrace Lifelong Learning and Adaptability
Avoid being typecast in your career by seeking roles that stretch your skills and open new doors. Flexibility and a willingness to learn will keep your options open.
Build a Resilient Network
Career progression often depends on relationships. Invest time in connecting with others, offering help without expectations, and planting seeds for future opportunities.
Master Mindfulness to Lead Effectively
Stay “above the line” by managing your mindset. Leaders who focus on collaboration, presence, and the bigger picture are more effective and create stronger teams.
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In this episode of Energy Sector Heroes, we delve into the fascinating crossroads of renewables and hydrocarbons with Jonathan Pye, who brings over 25 years of experience in the energy industry. Whether you're a graduate entering the field or a seasoned professional contemplating a career pivot, this conversation offers a practical lens on the evolving energy landscape and what it means for you.
Jonathan shares his journey from studying geophysics to leading carbon dioxide storage projects at DNV, touching on key skills needed to thrive in renewables, the challenges of transitioning careers, and the role of carbon capture in combating climate change. If you’re navigating the complexities of the energy sector, this episode is for you.
🎯 Key Takeaways:Keep Learning & Building Relationships
Whether you're starting out or switching fields, a willingness to learn and connect with others is crucial. Attend conferences, network with professionals, and remain open to new areas of expertise.
Be Realistic About Transitions
Moving from oil and gas to renewables isn't seamless. Expect to invest in training, such as courses or certifications, and focus on applying transferable skills to bridge the gap.
Embrace Carbon Capture as Part of the Future
Carbon dioxide storage is essential to achieving climate goals, especially as renewables alone won’t immediately eliminate fossil fuel dependency. Opportunities in this field will only grow.
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In this episode of Energy Sector Heroes, I’m joined by Goran Pavlović, a professional with over 30 years of experience spanning IT, banking, and the oil and gas industries. Gordan shares his career journey, discussing how he embraced change, fostered team collaboration, and balanced technical expertise with people skills. If you’re navigating your career or aiming to grow as a leader, this conversation is packed with lessons you can relate to your own journey.
Key Topics Covered:
Transitioning between industries and learning from change.How to effectively communicate and build trust in your team.Developing younger employees and fostering growth in your organization.🎯 Three Actionable Takeaways:
Stay Open to Change: Embrace new opportunities even if they don’t align perfectly with your current path. Each step adds to your skills and perspective.Master Communication: Make clear, consistent communication a priority. Listen actively, involve others in decisions, and ensure everyone understands the “why” behind the work.Support Growth in Others: Create a structured approach to mentoring and coaching your team. Regular check-ins, open-door policies, and collaborative problem-solving can build confidence and trust.
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In this episode, I’m joined by Alexander Richter, a seasoned expert in geothermal energy with over 18 years of experience. For anyone curious about career paths in renewable energy or intrigued by geothermal’s role in decarbonization, this conversation is packed with valuable perspectives and practical advice. Alexander’s journey from law to geothermal business development is a lesson in adaptability and impact.
Key Takeaways:🌍 Geothermal Energy's Potential
Understand how geothermal energy addresses decarbonization challenges, especially in the heating sector, and why it’s crucial for the future of sustainable energy.
🎓 Non-Technical Paths into Geothermal
You don’t have to be an engineer or geoscientist to work in geothermal. Careers in finance, communication, and marketing play pivotal roles in advancing the sector.
🛠️ Risk Mitigation and Long-Term Strategy
Learn how Alexander approaches project risks with strategic planning and diversified portfolios—key insights for both energy professionals and aspiring leaders.
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Welcome to this week’s episode of Energy Sector Heroes! I sit down with Atul Raina, Vice President at Rystad Energy, who shares his journey from petroleum engineering in India to shaping global mergers and acquisitions strategies. For professionals navigating the energy sector, this episode highlights career growth, innovation in energy, and the evolving role of research and leadership.
Key Takeaways:🌐 Networking starts early: Build relationships through alumni, conferences, and LinkedIn before entering the workforce to gain a career head start.🛠️ Skills are more than technical: Pair strong technical knowledge with communication skills to stand out in interviews and beyond.🔄 Adaptation is key: Stay updated with emerging tools (e.g., Power BI, SQL) and trends to bridge generational gaps and remain competitive.
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This week on Energy Sector Heroes, I’m joined by Neal Turluck, a geologist and president of S&S Oil and Gas. Neal shares his journey through the highs and lows of entrepreneurship in the oil and gas industry. If you’re navigating career risks, managing uncertainty, or just curious about the geology behind energy production, this conversation offers relatable insights and strategies.
Key Takeaways:📘 Learn from Failures, Not Just Successes
Failures are inevitable but invaluable. Seek feedback, self-analyze, and use your network to avoid repeating mistakes.
🌐 Build a Strong Network
Surround yourself with mentors and peers who challenge and support you. A reliable network is crucial for growth and problem-solving.
🎯 Focus and Specialize
Hone a specific skill set to stand out in competitive fields. Whether in geology, engineering, or business, being a subject matter expert will open doors.
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This week on Energy Sector Heroes, I speak with David Clark, CEO of Vysus Group and nonexecutive director at the Energy Industries Council. David has spent decades navigating the challenges of the global energy sector, driving innovation, and fostering collaboration across oil, gas, and renewable energy projects. If you’re curious about the future of energy, the nuances of the transition to net zero, or what it takes to lead in a constantly evolving industry, this episode is for you.
Key Takeaways:🌍 Energy Transition Requires Collaboration: Achieving net zero demands cross-sector collaboration. From governments to private companies, everyone must align their efforts to build the necessary infrastructure and systems.
🔋 Skills are Transferable: The expertise developed in oil and gas is directly applicable to renewable energy. Graduates and professionals alike should view the sector holistically, embracing opportunities across its full spectrum.
📈 Challenge the Status Quo: New graduates should question established practices, propose innovations, and help accelerate the energy transition. Change starts with curiosity and fresh perspectives.
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This week on Energy Sector Heroes, I chat with Varun Taneja, an accomplished engineering manager who shares his journey from navigating a global recession to leading multimillion-dollar projects. Varun’s career path is a testament to adaptability, persistence, and leveraging opportunities in unexpected situations. Whether you’re entering the energy sector, managing complex projects, or transitioning into a new industry, this conversation offers practical guidance for handling challenges and seizing growth opportunities.
Key Takeaways:💡 Adaptability is Key: Your skillset is often more transferable than you think. Varun’s shift from telecom to project management and later to metals and mining shows the power of learning and applying fundamental principles across industries.
🛠 Master People Management: Managing emotions and expectations is as critical as technical expertise. Avoid reacting immediately in tense situations; instead, listen, break problems into smaller pieces, and communicate clearly.
🎯 Take Calculated Risks: Early in your career, embrace opportunities that push you out of your comfort zone. Assess the risks, trust your instincts, and remember that every challenge offers lessons that contribute to your growth.
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This week on Energy Sector Heroes, I’m joined by Stuart Turley, President and CEO of Sandstone Group and host of Energy Newsbeat. Our conversation explores the intricate balance required in the energy sector—between sustainability, affordability, and innovation. If you’re grappling with the complexities of renewable energy, curious about the future of AI in the energy industry, or want to understand the real costs behind our energy systems, this episode is for you. We dive into why a balanced approach is essential and how new technologies can shape the path forward.
Key Takeaways:🌍 Balance is Critical: Achieving sustainable energy requires embracing multiple energy sources—natural gas, nuclear, solar, and wind. Relying solely on one can destabilize energy grids and inflate costs.
🤖 AI is a Game Changer: From improving drilling efficiency to analyzing grid vulnerabilities, AI has the potential to lower costs and boost safety. However, it also raises concerns about cybersecurity and ethical use.
♻️ Sustainability through Recycling: The future of renewables hinges on making technologies like wind turbines and solar panels fully recyclable. This shift could make renewable energy more cost-effective and environmentally friendly.
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In this episode, we dive deep into the nuclear energy sector with Linus Bettermann, Sales Director at GNS and a nuclear physicist. For anyone interested in energy's role in the transition to net zero, this discussion highlights why nuclear is both a vital and misunderstood player. We explore the challenges of phasing out nuclear power in some countries while expanding it in others and the unique career opportunities this presents.
If you're a professional in the energy industry or a student considering your career path, this episode offers valuable perspectives and actionable advice on navigating this dynamic sector. Here are the top takeaways:
Key Takeaways:🛠 Adaptability in Careers: The nuclear sector needs diverse skills beyond nuclear engineering, from mechanical to electrical engineering. Show initiative and curiosity to stand out.🚀 Mentorship Matters: Find mentors early in your career to guide your professional decisions and navigate challenges. Be open to both learning from others and mentoring younger professionals.🌍 Stay Global: While some regions phase out nuclear, others are investing heavily in it. Look beyond your local market for international opportunities in this expanding industry.
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In this episode of Energy Sector Heroes, I sit down with Brenda Hector, a business growth specialist and franchisee with ActionCOACH, to discuss the realities of career changes, resilience through redundancy, and finding purpose in entrepreneurship. For anyone who has faced setbacks or is considering starting a business, this conversation offers practical ways to navigate challenges and turn experiences into new opportunities. Brenda also emphasizes the power of mentorship and self-belief in achieving career milestones.
Key Takeaways:🎯 Use career setbacks as opportunities for change: Redundancy can be a pivotal moment for career shifts. Reflect on what you truly want, consider upskilling or launching your own venture, and embrace new beginnings.💡 The value of mentorship: Surround yourself with mentors who can boost your self-belief, offer guidance during challenges, and help you navigate complex career transitions.🚀 Embrace continuous learning and growth: Whether you're considering a new career path or starting a business, stay curious and committed to growth. Set new goals to keep pushing yourself forward.
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In this episode of Energy Sector Heroes, I chat with executive coach April Little, who brings years of experience as a recruiter and HR leader to guide us through career strategies tailored for success, whether you're just starting out or aiming for a senior promotion. We explore practical approaches to career growth that apply across industries, focusing on building meaningful relationships, maintaining visibility, and handling challenging workplace dynamics. If you're looking to get proactive about your career, here’s why this episode matters to you: April's advice will help you manage your trajectory effectively, from building a strong professional presence to strategically navigating workplace challenges.
Key Takeaways:🌱 Start building professional relationships early and keep them warm: Networking is not just a one-time event but a continuous process. Start engaging with colleagues, classmates, and industry connections even before graduation to maintain a network that supports your career progression.📈 Make yourself visible and build your internal brand: Stand out at work by consistently communicating your accomplishments, engaging in team projects, and positioning yourself as a reliable contributor. Regular updates with your manager on goals and achievements build a solid reputation that helps open doors for promotions.🧠 Advocate for yourself—strategically and incrementally: When aiming for growth or promotion, seek high-visibility projects that have a real impact across the organization. Let leadership know about your goals, so you're considered for opportunities. Be ready to address any challenges, including difficult relationships with managers, by building connections outside your direct line of supervision.
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In this episode of Energy Sector Heroes, I talk with Assheton Stuart Carter, founder and CEO of TDI Sustainability, who has three decades of experience in the extractive and energy industries. We explore the evolution of corporate sustainability, the complexities of new regulations, and managing risk in today's energy markets. This conversation is essential for energy sector professionals aiming to align business strategy with sustainability goals and navigate emerging challenges effectively.
Key Takeaways:🔗 Go beyond compliance: New regulations make sustainability a key strategic factor for energy companies. Embracing this approach can strengthen community relationships, enhance reputation, and ensure long-term success.🌍 Proactively manage external risks: From social media campaigns to regulatory shifts, staying transparent and engaging with communities early helps mitigate potential reputation and business risks.🧠 Deepen your technical expertise: Specializing in a technical aspect of sustainability offers credibility and allows for meaningful engagement with both operational and strategic challenges.
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Want to know how sustainability can boost your business? This week on the Energy Sector Heroes podcast, I sit down with David Goodman, CEO of Eden Arc Group, to explore why sustainability certification is more than just a checkbox—it's a business growth engine.
🎙️ In this episode, we cover:
How becoming a certified sustainable business can grow your sales faster and make you stand out from competitors.The hidden benefits of certification, including lower costs, better financing terms, and higher employee retention.Why avoiding greenwashing and ensuring compliance with global sustainability mandates is crucial for your business.🚀 Ready to take the lead in sustainability? Tune in for practical insights and strategies that can transform your business in the face of rapid industry change.
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🌍 Are you ready to navigate the future of energy? Join us on this week's episode of the Energy Sector Heroes podcast, featuring Barry Jones, Offshore Installation Manager at Ørsted, with over 30 years of experience spanning oil, gas, renewables, and submarine telecommunications. Together, we explore the real challenges and opportunities in the global shift toward greener energy.
🎧 What’s in it for you?
Understand the global push for renewables and why collaboration with traditional oil and gas sectors matters now more than ever.Learn from cultural challenges faced while working in diverse regions, from Taiwan to Europe, and discover why local context can make or break energy projects.Actionable tips for young professionals: Master communication skills to make your voice heard, innovate within your role, and drive meaningful change in the industry.Tune in for a grounded conversation packed with practical insights and real-world lessons for today’s energy sector professionals.
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🎙️ Discover the Real Stories Behind Energy Sector Leaders! 🎙️
Are you ready to dive into the journeys of those who’ve shaped the energy industry? In the latest episode of Energy Sector Heroes, host Michelle Fraser sits down with Bob Keiller, a trailblazer whose path took him from aspiring artist to influential leader in the energy world.
Tune in to hear Bob's insights on:
🎨 Pivoting from passion to career: how he turned an unexpected path into a successful journey.🧠 Mastering decision-making in leadership roles.🌱 Staying adaptable in a fast-changing industry through continuous learning.💡 Whether you're an industry pro or just curious about leadership in energy, this episode is packed with real-world advice and insights on thriving in the energy sector.
🎧 Listen Now to be inspired by real stories, actionable takeaways, and the lessons that come with years of experience in one of the world’s most dynamic fields.
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🚀 Ever wondered what it takes to innovate in the high-stakes world of energy technology?
This week on the Energy Sector Heroes podcast, we’re joined by Calvin Holt, CEO and cofounder of Drawdocks, as he opens up about his journey through startup failures and breakthroughs in the energy industry. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned pro, Calvin’s candid stories and actionable strategies offer a blueprint for building resilient businesses in a complex field.
🎙️ In this episode, you’ll discover:
💡 How to turn failure into fuel for building successful businesses.🏗️ The importance of rapid testing and iteration in tech development.🤝 Why relationships and transparency are the bedrock of success in the energy sector.🌐 Join us for a grounded conversation packed with practical tips on innovation, leadership, and perseverance.
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