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Navigating Career Pivots in the Landman Industry: Featuring Aaron Gray

In the latest episode of the Landman Pivot podcast, host and pivot coach Ryan Fairbanks interviews Aaron Gray, an experienced Landman with roots in Wyoming, who recently transitioned to an in-house role in Houston. The discussion covers Gray's professional journey, including his start as a land tech, his experiences with leasing, running title, and working as an independent contractor. They delve into the challenges and learning opportunities of transitioning from contractor to in-house roles, the importance of mentorship, and the unique operations within small versus large land companies. The episode closes with an announcement that the podcast will be taking a hiatus as Ryan shifts focus to other professional endeavors, taking care of clients and crews of Independent Contractors.

00:00 Aaron Grey Landman Pivot

00:37 Introduction and Guest Welcome

01:00 Aaron Gray's Background and Career Beginnings

01:49 The Move to Houston and Career Opportunities

02:55 Getting Started in the Land Business

05:34 Transition to Independent Contractor

06:33 In-House Experience and Project Insights

14:35 Challenges and Learning in Career Transitions

16:53 Mentors and Career Guidance

20:17 Navigating In-House Roles and Opportunities

29:26 Final Thoughts and Podcast Conclusion

Summary
In this episode of the Landman Pivot Podcast, host Ryan Fairbanks engages in a conversation with Aaron Gray, a seasoned Landman with roots in Wyoming who recently relocated to Houston for a new career opportunity. They discuss Aaron's career journey, which spans from starting as a land tech to progressing through various roles including title running, leasing, and surface negotiations, ultimately transitioning from independent contractor to in-house Landman. Key topics include the importance of mentorship, continuous learning, the challenges faced when making career pivots, and the benefits of having a diverse background in the ever-evolving Landman. Aaron also shares insights on navigating company-specific systems and processes, emphasizing the significance of asking questions and being willing to learn.

Resources:

• The Goal by Eliyahu Goldratt
• The Power of Systems by Steve Chandler and Trevor Timbeck

The episode concludes with an announcement that the podcast will be on hiatus as Ryan shifts focus to serving Energy Producers, the Land Skills Network, the Landman Mastermind group, and Land Coaching clients.

These options aim to position the podcast episode as both informative and inspiring, appealing to professionals seeking growth and new perspectives in their careers.

Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!):
https://uppbeat.io/t/hey-pluto/swings-and-roundabouts
License code: FEVKGPOGFIGCEJ04

Thanks, Joel Ingram, for your capable contributions and support behind the scenes, helping us sound great with your editing.

Land Runner, Inc. provides land and mineral acquisitions and right-of-way services for oil & gas and other energy producers. Check out our website, where you can also contact us and let us know you listen to the podcast, https://landrunnerinc.com/

How are you preparing to pivot?

Remember to connect with Ryan on LinkedIn at Ryan Fairbanks, RPL for more insights on building your Land Skills with Land Skills Coaching, mastermind groups, the Land Skills Network, mindset, purpose, and lifelong learning in Land so that you can prepare for your Pivot Path.

How are you preparing to pivot?

Send us a text

Introduction to Jeff McManus [00:00:53]

Ryan: So today on the Landman Mastermind group we have author and speaker Jeff McManus.

Overview of Jeff's Books
[00:00:59] Ryan: He's the author of The book, Growing Weeders into Leaders and also, you have another book, Jeff. It's, is it Cultivating?
[00:01:08] Jeff: Cultivate.
[00:01:09] Ryan: Yes. Cultivate. And is that the sequel, the follow up to Growing Weeders into Leaders?

Building Stronger Teams [00:01:15]

Jeff: Well, so Cultivate is all about building your teams and growing, growing stronger teams together. So it was like tailgate huddles. So this was really written for the blue collar industry in the sense that you're having your standup meeting at the beginning of the day, there's like a page here on some type of character, some type of a principle that you want to share with your group.

Importance of Personal Growth [00:02:46]

Applying Leadership Principles [00:03:05]

Challenges in Leadership [00:07:18]

Motivating Your Team [00:08:15]

Dealing with Difficult Team Members [00:11:35]

Managing Subcontractors [00:22:36]

A Long-Term Business Relationship Turns Sour [00:24:49]

Unexpected Resignation and Its Aftermath [00:25:32]

Seeking Advice and Reflecting on Relationships [00:26:36]

Facing a Demotion: Personal and Professional Impact [00:27:44]

Turning Challenges into Opportunities [00:29:22]

Navigating Organizational Growth and Cultural Shifts [00:33:14]

Maintaining Company Values Amidst Expansion [00:35:46]

Handling Team Morale and Personal Setbacks [00:37:46]

Personal Stories of Career Demotions [00:42:19]

Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts [00:46:21]

Thanks for the great conversation, Jeff! Please grab one of his books or listen to the Growing Weeders Into Leaders podcast and connect through his website:

JeffMcManus.com. There are lots of resources there. I really enjoyed going through the Growing Leaders in Your Organization worksheet, with some good reflection questions there and other tools and courses, ways to go deeper with Jeff's content.

Between recording and publication, Jeff McManus retired from Ole Miss.

Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!):
https://uppbeat.io/t/hey-pluto/swings-and-roundabouts
License code: FEVKGPOGFIGCEJ04

Thanks, Joel Ingram, for your capable contributions and support behind the scenes, helping us sound great with your editing.

Connect, learn, grow together at http://landmanmastermind.com
Call or Text: 970-773-4740
Schedule a call with Ryan Fairbanks: https://calendly.com/land-skills

Land Runner, Inc. provides land and mineral acquisitions and right-of-way services for oil & gas and other energy producers. Check out our website, where you can also contact us and let us know you listen to the podcast, https://landrunnerinc.com/

Remember to connect with Ryan on LinkedIn at Ryan Fairbanks, RPL for more insights on building your Land Skills with Land Skills Coaching, mastermind groups, the Land Skills Network, mindset, purpose, and lifelong learning in Land so that you can prepare for your Pivot Path.

How are you preparing to pivot?

Send us a text

Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Landman Pivot Podcast
00:41 Meet Jennifer Harshman: Editor and Publisher
01:12 Leadership and Personal Development
02:48 Jennifer's Journey into Editing
04:11 Writing and Publishing Insights
08:21 The Importance of Purpose
10:16 Challenges Authors Face
15:36 Encouragement for Aspiring Authors
21:16 Final Thoughts and Resources

How Notes
Mastering Leadership and Publishing with Jennifer Harshman

In this episode of the Landman Pivot Podcast, host and pivot coach Ryan Fairbanks welcomes editing and publishing expert Jennifer Harshman. Together, they discuss Jennifer’s diverse experience in the publishing industry, including her accidental start in editing, the process she uses to help clients write and publish books, and the significance of her work. The episode also covers essential leadership skills, the importance of gaining new perspectives through publishing, and strategies for overcoming common challenges faced by authors. Listeners are encouraged to visit the Landman Mastermind website for leadership resources and more information on coaching and mentoring services.

Thanks for the great conversation, Jennifer! You can reach her at jennifer@harshmanservices.com

Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!):
https://uppbeat.io/t/hey-pluto/swings-and-roundabouts
License code: FEVKGPOGFIGCEJ04

Thanks, Joel Ingram, for your capable contributions and support behind the scenes, helping us sound great with your editing.

Connect, learn, grow together at http://landmanmastermind.com
Call or Text: 970-773-4740
Schedule a call with Ryan Fairbanks: https://calendly.com/land-skills

Land Runner, Inc. provides land and mineral acquisitions and right-of-way services for oil & gas and other energy producers.

Remember to connect with Ryan on LinkedIn at Ryan Fairbanks, RPL for more insights on building your Land Skills with Land Skills Coaching, mastermind groups, the Land Skills Network, mindset, purpose, and lifelong learning in Land so that you can prepare for your Pivot Path.

How are you preparing to pivot?

Send us a text

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:29 Michelle's Journey into Oil and Gas
03:38 Career Growth and Industry Insights
06:03 The Quiet Companies and Mineral Interests
08:43 Building Relationships and Making Connections
13:57 Personal Growth and Mentorship
16:41 The Importance of Fossil Fuels
19:44 Adapting to Change and Future Outlook
20:13 Continuous Learning and Development
33:13 Final Thoughts and Farewell

Summary

In this episode of the Landman Pivot podcast, host Ryan Fairbanks interviews Michelle Smith, a veteran in the non-operational mineral rights ownership and mineral management sector. Michelle shares her journey from initially pursuing nursing, then geology, to becoming a key player in the oil and gas industry. She details her roles from starting as a Land Secretary to becoming a Title Analyst and later a Landman, emphasizing the importance of attitude, eagerness to learn, and adaptability. Michelle also discusses the strategies she employed to navigate industry fluctuations, highlighting the importance of building and maintaining relationships. Additionally, she talks about her involvement in various advocacy roles and the innovative practices she implemented on her farm. The discussion sheds light on the symbiotic relationship between Mineral Owners and the oil and gas industry, the value of continuous learning, and practical approaches to managing resources.

Thanks for the great conversation, Michelle!

Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!):
https://uppbeat.io/t/hey-pluto/swings-and-roundabouts
License code: FEVKGPOGFIGCEJ04

Thanks, Joel Ingram, for your capable contributions and support behind the scenes, helping us sound great with your editing.

Connect, learn, grow together at http://landmanmastermind.com
Call or Text: 970-773-4740
Schedule a call with Ryan Fairbanks: https://calendly.com/land-skills

Remember to connect with Ryan on LinkedIn at Ryan Fairbanks, RPL for more insights on building your Land Skills with Land Skills Coaching, mastermind groups, the Land Skills Network, mindset, purpose, and lifelong learning in Land so that you can prepare for your Pivot Path.

How are you preparing to pivot?

Land Runner, Inc. provides land and mineral acquisitions and right-of-way services for oil & gas and other energy producers.

Remember to connect with Ryan on LinkedIn at Ryan Fairbanks, RPL for more insights on building your Land Skills with Land Skills Coaching, mastermind groups, the Land Skills Network, mindset, purpose, and lifelong learning in Land so that you can prepare for your Pivot Path.

How are you preparing to pivot?

Send us a text

CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:07 Brian's Background in the Oil and Gas Industry
00:55 Journey into Energy Software Consulting
02:39 Early Career and Transition to Technology
04:31 Exploring AI and Technology in Energy
07:59 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Initiatives
11:58 Understanding Narcolepsy and Personal Challenges
15:26 Workplace Accommodations and Stigmas
25:07 Navigating Career Pivots and Consulting
30:59 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

Beyond the Surface: Brian Mahn on Learning, Inclusion, and Leadership

In this insightful episode, Ryan engages with industry veteran Brian Mahn, who
has over 30 years of experience in the oil and gas sector and now serves as an
energy software consultant. Brian shares his remarkable journey from a lease
analyst to an expert in land management data and technology solutions,
exploring the integration of AI and machine learning to enhance efficiency. The
conversation also delves into significant topics such as the challenges faced by
individuals with neurodiverse conditions like narcolepsy and autism, and the need
for greater workplace inclusivity and accommodations. Brian emphasizes
diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I), particularly focusing on the integration of
visible and invisible disabilities. Additionally, the episode highlights the
importance of informal education, effective communication, and networking, with
Brian offering practical advice on these fronts. Listeners gain valuable insights
into overcoming career transitions, leveraging support systems, and promoting
empathy and teamwork in the energy sector.

Brian now works as a Land Systems Analyst with Stonebridge Consulting.

Thanks for the great conversation, Brian!

Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!):
https://uppbeat.io/t/hey-pluto/swings-and-roundabouts
License code: FEVKGPOGFIGCEJ04

Thanks, Joel Ingram, for your capable contributions and support behind the scenes, helping us sound great with your editing.

Connect, learn, grow together at http://landmanmastermind.com
Call or Text: 970-773-4740
Schedule a call with Ryan Fairbanks: https://calendly.com/land-skills

Remember to connect with Ryan on LinkedIn at Ryan Fairbanks, RPL for more insights on building your Land Skills with Land Skills Coaching, mastermind groups, the Land Skills Network, mindset, purpose, and lifelong learning in Land so that you can prepare for your Pivot Path.

How are you preparing to pivot?

Send us a text

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:25 Nancy's Unexpected Start in Land
02:29 Early Career and Mentorship
06:43 Philosophy and Law: A Unique Perspective
08:56 Transition to Oil and Gas
12:06 Involvement with AAPL
15:35 Renewable Energy and Transferable Skills
20:40 Starting Masonboro Energy
34:43 Mentorship and Leadership
46:20 Final Thoughts and Advice

Topics:
Industry positioning content by Ryan, insights, learning, new perspectives, growth mindset

Summary
In this in-depth conversation, Ryan interviews Nancy McCaskell, the President of Masonboro Energy, who shares insights from her unconventional journey into land management. With degrees in English and philosophy, Nancy transitioned from her initial goal of becoming an educator to a successful career in oil and gas, inspired by her mother's suggestion to explore the role of a Landman. She discusses her varied experiences, from due diligence projects to working on renewable energy certification. Emphasizing the importance of lifelong learning, mentorship, and effective listening, Nancy offers valuable advice for land professionals, including the adaptability of skills across different energy sectors. Her career reflects a commitment to personal growth and the dynamic nature of the land management industry.

Thanks for the great conversation, Nancy!

Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!):
https://uppbeat.io/t/hey-pluto/swings-and-roundabouts
License code: FEVKGPOGFIGCEJ04

Thanks, Joel Ingram, for your capable contributions and support behind the scenes, helping us sound great with your editing.

Connect, learn, grow together at http://landmanmastermind.com
Call or Text: 970-773-4740
Schedule a call with Ryan Fairbanks: https://calendly.com/land-skills

Remember to connect with Ryan on LinkedIn at Ryan Fairbanks, RPL for more insights on building your Land Skills with Land Skills Coaching, mastermind groups, the Land Skills Network, mindset, purpose, and lifelong learning in Land so that you can prepare for your Pivot Path.

How are you preparing to pivot?

Send us a text

Summary

In this podcast episode, Ryan welcomes Aaron Walker, also known as Big A, to discuss leadership and the impact of mastermind groups. They talk about insights on various leadership books like 'Leadershift' by John Maxwell and 'Never Split the Difference' by Chris Voss. Emphasizing the importance of reading and implementing knowledge, Aaron explains how mastermind groups provide critical accountability, support, and opportunities for growth. He highlights the transformational power of these groups through personal anecdotes and success stories, stressing the benefits of mentorship, shared experiences, and collective wisdom. The discussion also covers the value of continued engagement in mastermind groups, regardless of age or career stage, and the role of experienced members in guiding and supporting younger entrepreneurs.

Leadership Development and the Power of Mastermind Groups with Aaron Walker

In this episode, the host invites Aaron Walker, fondly known as Big A, to discuss various aspects of leadership and the profound impact of mastermind groups. The conversation covers essential leadership skills, influential books like 'Leadershift' by John Maxwell and 'The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People' by Stephen Covey, and the importance of continuous reading and implementation. Aaron emphasizes the power of mastermind groups in providing accountability, leveraging relationships, fostering personal and professional growth, and offering a platform for celebration. He also shares insightful examples of the transformations witnessed in mastermind participants over the years.

Furthermore, Aaron offers guidance for both young and experienced individuals on maximizing the benefits of mastermind groups and highlights the reciprocal value of shared wisdom and experiences within these groups.

Chapter & Timestamps
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:34 Discussing Leadership and Recommended Books
04:16 Insights on 'Never Split the Difference'
09:38 The Power of Mastermind Groups
13:09 Success Stories from Mastermind Groups
14:37 The Importance of Accountability and Consistency
20:35 Leveraging Relationships and Overcoming Fatigue
25:12 The Value of Staying Engaged in Mastermind Groups
29:46 Conclusion and Resources

Hosting Aaron Walker on the podcast was not just an interview but a journey into the heart of leadership and personal development. His experiences and wisdom provide a roadmap for anyone looking to elevate their life, both personally and professionally. If you're serious about leadership and growth, Aaron's insights are indispensable. --- For more about Aaron Walker and his work, visit View from the Top (https://viewfromthetop.com) and tune in to his podcast.

Remember to connect with Ryan on LinkedIn at Ryan Fairbanks, RPL for more insights on building your Land Skills with Land Skills Coaching, mastermind groups, the Land Skills Network, mindset, purpose, and lifelong learning in Land so that you can prepare for your Pivot Path.

How are you preparing to pivot?

Send us a text

Meet Jerry Taylor

In this episode, we had the pleasure of talking with Jerry Taylor, a mentor who has been instrumental in my career development. Jerry's story is rich with transitions, skill development, and the influences of mentors and books throughout his journey. We kicked off the conversation by asking Jerry how he got into the land management field.

In this episode of the Landman Pivot Podcast, hosted by Ryan Fairbanks, veteran petroleum Landman Jerry Taylor, CPL shares his career journey spanning over six decades.

Jerry discusses his switch from geology to petroleum land management, his extensive experience working with major companies like Chevron and Mitchell Energy, and his transition to independent contracting. He emphasizes the importance of mentorship, lifelong learning, and adaptability within the industry.

Ryan and Jerry also touch upon influential books and the diverse challenges faced by Landmen, including negotiation, legal interpretation, and relationship building with landowners. Jerry's story highlights the critical role of persistence and ethical behavior in achieving long-term success.

Remember to connect with Ryan on LinkedIn at Ryan Fairbanks, RPL for more insights on building your Land Skills with Land Skills Coaching, mastermind groups, the Land Skills Network, mindset, purpose, and lifelong learning in Land so that you can prepare for your Pivot Path.

How are you preparing to pivot?