What’s really powering the future?
In this episode, host Dan Romito sits down with energy expert Maria Dreyfus for a candid, no-nonsense conversation about the real trade-offs behind the energy transition, the hype and reality of AI’s power demands, the truth about nuclear, and why water scarcity might be the next big crisis.
If you want to understand what’s at stake in the global race for energy innovation—and why it matters to your daily life—don’t miss this episode!
Navigating the Future of Energy: From Carbon Markets to Emission Regulations
Join host Dan Romito and Deb Ryan of Swan Mountain Advisory as they unpack the shifting dynamics of the energy sector. With her engineering background and bold industry insights, Deb sheds light on:
Whether you’re tracking energy trends or exploring the future of production, this conversation offers a sharp look at the key challenges and opportunities shaping the industry.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
01:00 Deb's Background and Career Journey
03:01 Industry Challenges and Changes
05:38 Convergence of Energy Sectors
10:04 Teaching and Student Perspectives
22:31 Emissions Data and Standardization
30:15 Global Coordination on Carbon Standards
32:32 Challenges with Major Emission Contributors
34:42 Steel Industry's Green Transition
37:30 Economic and Strategic Implications
39:46 Energy Solutions and Efficiency
43:29 Emerging Environmental Markets
50:37 The Role of Carbon Credits
54:07 Conclusion and Contact Information
Can tech and policy unite to power our energy future?
In this PetroNoia episode, host Dan Romito welcomes Ann Bluntzer, who records on the move after a board meeting, proof of her dedication.
Ann shares her career journey, her leadership at the Ham Institute for American Energy, and her family’s achievements.
They discuss organizing large energy events quickly, shaping practical policies for energy and agriculture, and how technology is transforming the industry.
Highlights include energy–tech collaboration, the importance of natural gas and nuclear power, and the challenges of land rights and permitting, all wrapped up with a lighthearted chat about college football.
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00:00 Introduction and Host Welcome
00:26 Anne's Background and Career Journey
02:57 The Ham Institute and Its Mission
04:16 Event Highlights and Industry Challenges
06:44 Energy Solutions and Industry Collaboration
17:21 Transmission, Distribution, and Tech Perspectives
28:12 International Energy Perspectives
33:38 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
What does it take to navigate the toughest challenges in energy and the environment?
In this episode, Dan Romito talks with Robert Stout, former BP Chief Environmental Lawyer, about his journey from private practice to leading the company through the Gulf Oil Spill.
They explore energy decarbonization, methane emissions, regulatory affairs, and the critical role of collaboration. Bob also shares his current work with universities and organizations addressing today’s pressing energy and environmental challenges.
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00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:44 Bob's Career Journey
05:24 Deepwater Horizon Experience
12:18 Post-BP Career and Reflections
19:02 Industry Challenges and Collaboration
24:51 Future of Energy and Regulation
38:27 Resource Scarcity and Efficiency
38:57 University Partnerships and Objectivity
41:45 Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration
43:27 Economic Prioritization in Environmental Stewardship
49:30 Methane Management and Industry Standards
57:48 Net Zero Goals and Global Emissions
01:12:37 Permitting Reform and Future Opportunities
Join host Dan Romito for a compelling conversation with Dr. Judith Curry, President at Climate Forecast Applications Network and author of Climate Uncertainty and Risk.
Dr. Curry discusses her transition from academia to the private sector, challenging conventional climate narratives and examining the politicization of climate science.
She offers critical insights on current climate models, the UN's role in shaping global discourse, and practical energy solutions, including nuclear power.
This episode provides a nuanced perspective on climate science, energy policy, and adaptation strategies, essential listening for those seeking evidence-based analysis beyond polarized climate rhetoric.
Join host Dan Romito for a compelling conversation with Dr. Judith Curry, President at Climate Forecast Applications Network and author of Climate Uncertainty and Risk.
Dr. Curry discusses her transition from academia to the private sector, challenging conventional climate narratives and examining the politicization of climate science.
She offers critical insights on current climate models, the UN's role in shaping global discourse, and practical energy solutions, including nuclear power.
This episode provides a nuanced perspective on climate science, energy policy, and adaptation strategies, essential listening for those seeking evidence-based analysis beyond polarized climate rhetoric.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Background
00:57 Judith Curry's Career Shift
03:23 Climate Catastrophe Narrative
06:27 UN and Global Climate Policies
13:29 Issues with Climate Models
34:33 Adaptation and Resilience Strategies
What happens when AI, energy policy, and national security collide?
In this episode of PetroNoia, host Dan Romito sits down with Lyndsey Feinberg, a former Pentagon, Treasury, and National Security Council leader with 15 years in U.S. government. They unpack AI’s role in national security, the Abraham Accords, and the delicate balance between natural gas and nuclear power, revealing where America’s energy and tech future may be headed.
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00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:50 Lindsey's Impressive Background
03:08 Transition to Engine Number One
05:04 Energy Policy and Bipartisanship
10:44 Middle East Relations and Abraham Accords
14:58 Challenges in Foreign Investment
18:02 Export Controls and AI Development
22:34 Power and Infrastructure
28:29 Water Management Challenges and Opportunities
30:37 The Role of Data Centers in Economic Development
33:55 Balancing AI and Net Zero Goals
37:11 The Future of Energy Policy and Nuclear Power
44:59 International Climate Agreements and Cooperation
53:23 Personal Reflections and Experiences in the Middle East
Get ready for a powerhouse conversation on the future of energy!
Host Dan Romito sits down with Doug Sandridge, Senior VP at Fulcrum Energy and a passionate advocate for both oil & gas and nuclear power. Doug shares his incredible 50-year journey in the energy sector, from his early days in Midland, Texas, to his global perspective shaped by living and working around the world.
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00:00 – Introduction: Meet Doug Sandridge, Senior VP at Fulcrum Energy
00:27 – Doug’s background: 50 years in oil & gas, global upbringing
01:47 – Early career stories: From Midland, Texas to the oilfields
03:04 – College days: Nuclear engineering, Three Mile Island, and career pivot
05:21 – Transition to oil & gas management, family advice, and career path
06:45 – Current work: Colorado oilfields and Fulcrum Energy
08:04 – Oil & Gas Executives for Nuclear: How the group started
09:21 – The “bloods vs. crips” myth: Oil, gas, and nuclear collaboration
10:45 – Teaching, energy education, and discovering the broader energy world
12:51 – Realizing the limits of net zero and the need for nuclear
15:21 – The Indian Point closure: Doug’s “nuclear radicalization”
18:02 – Politics and advocacy: Why nuclear plants are really being shut down
20:10 – Environmental NGOs: Generational divides and anti-nuclear sentiment
22:34 – The nuclear renaissance: Climate concern driving new support
24:17 – Oil, gas, and nuclear: Overcoming industry stereotypes
26:40 – Mark Nelson, Robert Bryce, and the power of energy podcasts
29:45 – The history of nuclear’s struggles: Oil shocks, overbuilding, and protests
32:56 – The Cold War, public perception, and the rise of environmental NGOs
36:38 – Net zero “pipe dream”: The realities of decarbonization
41:04 – Virtue signaling, policy games, and the economics of energy
45:00 – California’s oil & gas paradox: Production vs. consumption
48:15 – Industry narrative failures and the need for better communication
51:17 – Chris Wright, Trisha Curtis, and new voices in energy advocacy
54:52 – NIMBYism, data centers, and the future of energy demand
59:00 – The gas-to-nuclear transition: What’s really happening
1:02:00 – Why does nuclear take so long? Permitting, regulation, and politics
1:07:00 – State vs. federal energy policy: The Colorado and Illinois stories
1:13:00 – National security, supply chains, and the case for American nuclear
1:18:00 – Subsidies, investment, and the economics of building nuclear
1:23:00 – Doug’s call to action: Oil & Gas Executives for Nuclear
1:27:00 – Final thoughts: Physics, policy, and the future of energy
1:30:00 – Where to find Doug’s work: Energy Ruminations and more
1:32:00 – Outro and next
In this episode of PetroNoia, host Dan Romito sits down with Erik Belz, President of Engine No. 1, to discuss the future of energy, AI, and the deindustrialization of the United States.
They dive deep into the intersection of technology and energy that is reshaping the landscape for data centers, power generation, and national security.
The conversation covers the challenges of scaling power infrastructure for AI, the evolving role of natural gas and renewables, the bottlenecks in equipment and grid capacity, and the critical importance of innovation and policy in winning the global AI arms race.
Eric shares insights on investment trends, the pendulum swing between fossil fuels and renewables, and why the U.S. is uniquely positioned to lead the next era of industrial and technological growth.
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When science meets policy, things get political.
Welcome to PetroNoia Podcast, hosted by Dan Romito. In this episode, he speaks with Professor Jessica Weinkle of UNC Wilmington about her journey from zoology to climate policy.
They explore her research on hurricane risk, insurance industry regulation, and how science shapes public perception, national security, and environmental advocacy.
A must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of science, policy, and climate.
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00:00 Introduction and Guest Background
00:51 Jessica's Academic Journey
01:45 Hurricane Risk Perception and Science Policy
03:07 The Politics of Science and Climate Advocacy
05:01 Regulatory Capture and Insurance Industry
07:45 The Role of Tech in Environmental NGOs
12:28 Conflicts of Interest in Climate Science
22:47 Data Quality and Climate Science
25:39 Hurricane Data and Risk Trends
37:29 Public Perception and Climate Change
39:09 Introduction to Hannah Richie's Work
39:21 Environmental Policies and Global Improvements
40:44 Breakthrough Institute's Approach
42:14 Challenges of Nuclear Energy
43:20 Economic Prosperity and Climate Change
44:47 European Climate Policies and Their Impact
46:22 Conflicts of Interest in Climate Science
52:01 Litigation and Environmental Solutions
01:01:10 Academic Perspectives on Environmental Advocacy
01:11:11 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
In this compelling episode of Petronoia, host Dan Romito welcomes back Tim Tarpley—our very first returning guest—for a deep dive into the recently passed Big Beautiful Bill. Together, they unpack its key components, including the reconciliation process, bipartisan backing, methane fees, and the critical need for energy infrastructure and permitting reform.
The conversation also touches on the political implications of the midterms, the evolving roles of nuclear and renewable energy, and the ongoing challenges faced by the oil and gas sectors.
Tune in for an insightful exploration of the policies and dynamics shaping the future of the energy industry.
00:12 Special Guest Introduction
00:45 Discussion on the Big Beautiful Bill
01:42 House vs. Senate Dynamics
02:28 Permitting Reform Challenges
02:58 The Bird Bath Process
05:52 Midterm Elections Impact
11:59 Energy Policy and Investment Uncertainty
21:15 LNG Permitting Issues
26:38 NEPA and Judicial Reform
31:54 Political Hot Button: Data Centers in Rural Areas
32:39 NIMBY and Nuclear Waste: The Yucca Mountain Dilemma
33:10 Balancing Local and National Interests in Energy Projects
33:40 Environmental NGOs and Industry Communication Challenges
34:06 America's Resilience in Facing Energy Challenges
35:03 Coal and Nuclear: The Future of Energy Generation
36:15 The Case for Nuclear Energy and Its Bipartisan Support
38:18 Geothermal Energy: An Overlooked Resource
38:56 Air Pollution and the Tech Sector's Role
41:05 The Intersection of Tech and Energy Sectors
42:01 Carbon Tax and Permitting Reform
42:54 Tariff Uncertainty and Its Impact on Energy Companies
46:13 Government's Role in Nuclear Investment
49:07 Methane Tax and Regulatory Certainty
54:13 Midterm Elections and Political Strategies
59:35 Conclusion and Contact Information
What happens when AI, energy, and data centers collide?
In this episode, Dan Romito speaks with Ron Vokoun, SVP of Data Center Cooling at SVL Inc., about the future of data centers and energy innovation.
They discuss:
A sharp look at what’s next for the data center industry.
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00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
00:52 Ron Vokoun's Background and Career Journey
02:15 Predictions on Nuclear Energy and SMRs
08:01 Natural Gas and Data Center Power Challenges
17:27 Distributed Generation and Grid Inefficiencies
22:30 Direct-to-Chip Liquid Cooling and AI Impact
27:51 Sodium-Based Batteries vs. Lithium-Ion
29:04 Emerging Technologies in Energy Storage
30:47 Data Center Efficiency and Cooling Innovations
34:41 Regional Considerations for Data Center Locations
37:28 The Role of Utilities in Data Center Power Supply
45:42 The Future of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs)
46:27 Public Perception and Education on Data Centers and SMRs
48:48 Challenges and Opportunities in Powering AI and Data Centers
55:19 Final Thoughts and Contact Information
Join Dan Romito in a powerful conversation with nuclear expert Dr. Robert Hayes as they break down the biggest misconceptions about nuclear energy.
With deep expertise in nuclear engineering and emergency response, Dr. Hayes addresses key concerns around safety, cost, and efficiency.
They explore the truth behind events like Three Mile Island and Fukushima, why nuclear should be part of our future energy mix, and the promise of next-gen technologies like small modular reactors (SMRs).Don’t miss this eye-opening look at how nuclear can safely power our future.
00:00 Introduction and Host's Greeting
00:23 Guest Introduction: Robert Hayes
00:54 Robert Hayes' Educational Background
01:23 Professional Experience in Nuclear Industry
02:00 Teaching and Research at NC State
02:52 Public Outreach and Social Media
03:35 Nuclear Energy: Misunderstandings and Myths
04:41 Energy Density and Nuclear Power
06:12 Historical Context: Nuclear Accidents and Regulations
08:04 Public Perception and Anti-Nuclear Sentiment
09:32 Nuclear Waste Management
11:13 Radiation Safety and Regulatory Standards
18:24 Fukushima and Chernobyl: Comparing Impacts
21:17 Anti-Nuclear Sentiment: Origins and Persistence
22:45 Nuclear Energy in the Context of Global Politics
31:41 Challenges in Communicating Nuclear Science
35:03 The Cost and Challenges of Nuclear Energy
36:14 Safety and Design of Nuclear Facilities
37:57 Public Perception and Political Support
39:42 Advancements in Nuclear Technology
40:41 Nuclear Energy and Infrastructure
43:35 Global Perspectives on Nuclear Energy
44:41 Environmental Impact and Land Use
56:46 Debunking Nuclear Myths
01:01:19 Future of Nuclear Energy and Education
01:07:34 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
The Future of Sustainability and Decarbonization: In-Depth with Bob Smith of Sage Advisory
In this episode of PetroNoia, host Dan Ramito talks with Bob Smith, CEO of Sage Advisory, about the evolution of sustainability and ESG investing.
Bob shares his journey from traditional finance to leading the shift toward socially responsible investing. They explore governance, decarbonization, nuclear energy, and how tech and regulation are reshaping the energy landscape.
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00:00 Introduction and Guest Background
00:39 Journey into Socially Responsible Investing (SRI)
02:35 Evolution to ESG and Development of LEAF Score
05:12 Challenges and Strategies in ESG Implementation
07:52 Balancing Decarbonization and Asset Valuation
08:20 Global Carbon Emissions and Portfolio Strategy
14:57 Engagement with Management Teams
20:56 China's Influence on Supply Chains and Global Emissions
22:02 Geopolitical Considerations and Energy Security
39:26 Nuclear Power and Future Energy Technologies
44:46 Generational Perspectives on Nuclear Energy
45:55 AI's Role in Advancing Nuclear Technology
48:25 Challenges in Uranium Processing and Supply Chain
50:02 Global Power Dynamics: Russia and China
56:57 India's Emerging Influence
59:59 Europe's Regulatory Environment and Economic Impact
01:08:03 The Future of Carbon Credits and Blockchain
01:13:43 Insurance and Environmental Responsibility
01:22:01 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
How much do you know about the global energy transition?
Don’t miss the latest episode of Pet Noria featuring Scott Tinker, geologist, professor, and global energy advocate.Scott shares insights on:
Tune in for an engaging discussion on the energy transition, climate impacts, and the future of global energy.
00:39 Scott Tinker's Early Life and Career Beginnings
01:09 Career Progression and Family Life
03:44 Global Travel and Perspective
07:14 Energy Advocacy and Global Issues
12:53 Energy Systems and Economic Disparities
28:36 California's Energy Policies and Challenges
43:56 Understanding Energy Density
45:24 Nuclear Power Efficiency
48:57 Radiation and Public Perception
50:53 Climate Change Fears
55:14 Nuclear Power in Modern Times
55:37 Global Nuclear Developments
57:58 Nuclear Safety and Regulations
01:05:00 Energy Consumption and Economic Impact
01:12:44 The Role of Natural Gas
01:14:18 Geopolitical Energy Dynamics
01:22:48 Historical CO2 Emissions and Industrialization
01:23:30 The Rise of CO2 Levels and Its Implications
01:24:38 Debating the Impact of Increased CO2
01:25:57 Future Projections and Climate Scenarios
01:27:30 The Role of IPCC and Climate Reports
01:28:21 Analyzing IPCC AR6 Report
01:35:24 Mitigation vs. Adaptation Strategies
01:44:43 Energy Poverty and Global Prosperity
01:47:25 The 50-50-50 Vision for Global Development
01:55:34 Conclusion and Future Directions
California's Energy Crisis!
In this episode, host Dan Romito sits down with energy experts Ron Stein and Mike Umbro to unpack California’s complicated energy landscape. From the state’s reliance on fossil fuels to the promises and pitfalls of renewable energy, the conversation explores the real-world impacts of California’s aggressive climate policies.
Ron and Mike also raise critical questions about the ethics of sourcing exotic minerals from developing countries, the economic burden of current energy regulations, and the long-term viability of California’s green agenda.
Whether you're in the industry or just energy-curious, this is a must-listen episode that challenges assumptions and champions energy literacy.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Introductions
00:26 Ron Stein's Background and Views on Energy
02:30 Mike Umbro's Background and Energy Projects
03:20 Discussion on Energy Policies and Fossil Fuels
07:00 California's Energy Crisis and Political Landscape
09:44 Global Energy Dynamics and China's Role
18:08 Impact of California's Policies on Global Emissions
31:38 Enhanced Geothermal Systems and Thermal Energy Storage
32:46 California's Energy Challenges and Natural Gas Dependency
34:41 National Security Risks and Energy Imports
36:23 Electric Vehicles and Infrastructure Issues
38:48 Gasoline Prices and Political Implications
44:27 Hydraulic Fracturing and California's Oil Production
50:39 Nuclear Energy and Future Prospects
55:55 Education and Policy Recommendations
Is nuclear power our only shot at a stable energy future?
In this episode of PetroNoia, host Dan Romito is joined by Emmet Penny to discuss the future of nuclear energy and the roadblocks it faces.
.👉 Tune in NOW!
00:00 Introduction and Guest Background
00:30 Emmet's Journey into Nuclear Energy
03:03 The State of Nuclear Today
03:56 Historical Context of Nuclear Power
11:22 Challenges in Nuclear Deployment
13:46 Regulatory and Financial Hurdles
24:57 Public Perception and Environmental Impact
31:42 Population Control Fears and Degrowth
32:06 Environmentalism in the 80s, 90s, and 2000s
33:15 The Rise of Renewable Energy
35:50 Nuclear Energy Debate
36:44 Illinois Nuclear Moratorium
43:33 Challenges in Energy Policy
57:38 The Future of Nuclear Energy
What do law, the Vietnam War, and climate change have in common?
In this episode, we’re joined by Jim Blackburn, CEO of BCarbon and a seasoned expert in environmental law. Jim takes us on a compelling journey from his early days in law school during the Vietnam War era to becoming a leading voice in sustainability
In this episode, we explore:
A powerful conversation at the intersection of law, environmentalism, and private sector leadership.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:36 Jim Blackburn's Early Career and Environmental Law
02:44 Formation and Evolution of the EPA
04:47 Corporate Responsibility and Environmental Compliance
10:50 The Role of Data and Market in Environmentalism
14:58 Circular Economy and Future Opportunities
29:44 Generational Perspectives on Environmental Issues
31:31 Introduction to B Carbon's Focus Areas
31:48 Soil and Forest Carbon Initiatives
33:38 Challenges and Innovations in the Carbon Market
34:19 Humor and Insights from the Oil and Gas Industry
42:17 The Role of Financial Industry in Carbon Markets
44:42 International Carbon Market and Future Changes
53:00 Legal Anecdotes and Environmental Lawsuits
58:48 Final Thoughts and Acknowledgements
From prison guard to energy advocate! In this episode of PetroNoia, host Dan Ramito welcomes Amy Miller for a powerful conversation about her unconventional journey — from serving as a prison guard in a high-security men’s facility in England to becoming a vocal advocate for the oil and gas industry at Pragma.
Together, they explore:
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00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:07 Amy's Unusual First Job
04:39 Transition to Oil and Gas
05:08 Founding Pragma and Its Mission
06:04 Challenges in the Oil and Gas Industry
08:35 Advocacy and Industry Perception
09:00 European Energy Policies and Challenges
10:44 Geopolitical and Economic Considerations
15:00 Technological Innovations and Future Directions
32:09 The Future of Energy in the UK
32:47 Investor Perspectives on Energy
33:37 Challenges and Opportunities in Clean Technologies
35:34 Public Perception and Media Influence
37:50 Youth and Climate Anxiety
45:39 Energy Policy and Diversification
50:28 Global Energy Dynamics and Security
54:56 Pragma's Vision and Goals
56:48 Concluding Thoughts and Reflections
In this episode, host Dan Ramito is on the road and catching up with Darren Wolfberg—Founder & CEO at Triangle Systems Inc. and better known to some as the "carbon credit guy."
They dive into the world of carbon credits, breaking down what’s working, what’s not, and where the real opportunities lie. Darren brings his experience in institutional finance and tech to the table, offering a fresh perspective on how these industries are coming together in the carbon space.
They also talk about how the market is maturing, why things like transparency and verifiability matter, and how the right regulations could help this space grow.
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00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
00:23 Darren's Background and Career Journey
03:17 Triangle Systems Inc Core Platform
04:36 Modules and Market Impact
10:18 State of the Carbon Markets
17:14 Regulatory Compliance and Market Dynamics
29:13 Real-Time Carbon Reporting and Future Prospects
30:14 The Importance of a Robust Carbon Credit Market
30:50 Challenges and Misconceptions in Climate Goals
31:30 Market Dynamics and Economic Perspectives
32:31 Debating Economic Systems and Market Efficiency
36:01 Regulatory Frameworks for Carbon Credits
36:51 Technological Innovations and Market Confidence
46:02 Global Perspectives and Policy Implications
57:24 Concluding Thoughts and Key Takeaways