Pipeliners Podcast

This episode of the Pipeliners Podcast features Jimmy Stewart from the Ohio Gas Association discussing the growing intersection between electrical demand and natural gas infrastructure. The conversation explores historical trends in electricity generation, the shifting role of natural gas as a baseload power source, and the increasing pressure from emerging sectors like data centers. The discussion highlights the implications for future pipeline development, infrastructure capacity, and energy policy in the face of rising demand. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions.

In this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, Brett Adamcik, chair of the AGA Distribution Integrity Management Committee, joins us at the 2025 AGA Operations Conference to discuss the evolving challenges and priorities in distribution integrity. The conversation explores risk modeling, data collection strategies, the anticipated Safety of Gas Distribution Pipeline Rule, and how operators are preparing for future regulatory changes. Brett also shares insights on collaboration within the industry and the committee's work to improve safety and data-driven decision-making. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions.

This episode of the Pipeliners Podcast commemorates the 26th anniversary of the tragic Olympic Pipeline rupture in Bellingham, Washington, which resulted in a catastrophic explosion and the loss of three young lives. Larry Shelton shares his insights from the incident and the conversation serves as a reminder of the responsibilities of those in the pipeline industry. On the 20-year anniversary of the Bellingham Incident in Bellingham, Washington, Pipeliners Podcast host Russel Treat welcomed retired pipeline professional Larry Shelton to share his first-hand recollections and reflect on the importance of pipeline integrity management. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions.

In this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, Mike Kern joins the show to discuss the work of the AGA Transmission Operations Committee and the value of participating in industry trade groups. The conversation explores key committee initiatives, including regulatory awareness, white paper development on in-situ material testing, and the importance of addressing normalization of deviation in pipeline safety practices. Listeners gain insight into how collaboration and shared learning influence operational decision-making and career development in the pipeline industry. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions.

On this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, host Russel Treat is joined by Todd Lakatos and Mary Molina during the 2025 AGA Operations Conference in Aurora, Colorado. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions.

In this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, host Russel Treat is joined by Laura Ade, Scott Craig, and Andy Donato - chairs of the Gas Control Committee - during the 2025 AGA Operations Conference in Aurora, Colorado. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions.

In this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, host Russel Treat is joined by Dr. Martha Acosta to discuss building safety capacity and her book, Safety Capacity, during the 2025 API Pipeline Conference in Austin, Texas. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions.

In this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, host Russel Treat talks with Jonathan Elder of J.D. Engineering about how smaller gathering system operators are responding to the PHMSA Mega Rule. The conversation explores the unique challenges these operators face, including limited resources, staff constraints, and operational pressures. Jonathan also shares his own background and insights from working with both large and small operators, offering a grounded perspective on practical compliance in the field. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions.

In this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, Russel Treat welcomes Joe Hainline of Van Ness Feldman to discuss the recent PHMSA advisory bulletin on Pipeline Safety Management Systems (PSMS). Drawing on Joe's regulatory experience at PHMSA and insights from both legal and industry perspectives, the conversation explores the evolving regulatory landscape under the current administration and what it means for pipeline operators. The episode offers a high-level look at how shifting priorities and leadership may shape the future of pipeline safety regulation. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions.

This episode of the Pipeliners Podcast focuses on building a comprehensive knowledge guide for control room operations. Host Russel Treat outlines key concepts essential to effective control room performance, including human-centered design, training and simulation, fatigue management, procedural consistency, and the role of technology. He also highlights valuable resources—both regulatory and from previous podcast episodes—that can support training and continuous improvement for pipeline control room professionals. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions.

In this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, host Russel Treat welcomes Weldon Wright to reflect on his extensive career in oil and gas measurement and his recent transition into semi-retirement. Weldon shares insights from decades of experience across utilities, vendors, and operators, while also discussing his role as host of the Oil & Gas Measurement Podcast. The conversation explores career path considerations within the industry and the differences between roles in various sectors, offering guidance for those navigating their own professional journeys. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions.

This week's Pipeliners Podcast episode is a rebroadcast of Episode 237 featuring host Russel Treat walking through how each individual pipeliner should think about pipeline cyber security as it relates to supporting their operation. The episode centers on three key areas of threats, understanding, and mitigation. Russel goes into deep detail about cybersecurity threats, the importance of understanding what the nature of the environment is, and how to have healthy cyber hygiene. In this episode, you will learn the language of cybersecurity professionals, as well as how to reduce your chances of being cyber attacked by controlling your personal risk and personal mitigations by identifying phishing, using VPNs, and having proper password management.

On this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, host Russel Treat is joined by corrosion and reliability engineering specialist Dheeraj Narang to discuss applications of artificial intelligence to integrity management. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions.

In this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, host Russel Treat reflects on the industry's current state of transition, touching on key topics like artificial intelligence in pipeline operations and shifting regulatory dynamics. He discusses the potential benefits and risks of AI deployment and notes the evolving regulatory landscape under the new administration. Russel also invites listeners to suggest future guests and topics, making this episode a call for industry insights and collaboration. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions.

This episode of the Pipeliners Podcast features Dave Murk from the American Petroleum Institute discussing the upcoming API Pipeline Conference. The conversation covers the conference's new format, its "Just Good Business" theme, and key topics such as pipeline safety, regulatory developments, and workforce training. David also highlights the event's keynote speakers, including Dr. Martha Acosta, who will discuss building safety capacity and learning from failures in the industry. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions.

This episode of The Pipeliners Podcast features Mallory Gill discussing process management and Pipeline Safety Management Systems (PSMS). The conversation explores the evolving industry focus on proactive safety performance, the distinction between processes and procedures, and the role of process management in achieving PSMS maturity. The discussion also touches on ways that organizations can embed safety processes into daily operations and leverage data for continuous improvement. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions.

On this week's episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, host Russel Treat is joined by Ross Adams of EnerSys Corporation to discuss operations effectiveness - what it is, how to define it, and how operators should be thinking about it. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions.

In this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, host Russel Treat is joined by Jim Curry of Babst Calland to discuss the new notice of preliminary rulemaking from PHMSA regarding CO2. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions.

This episode of the Pipeliners Podcast features a conversation with Dr. Faisal Khan from the Mary Kay O'Connor Process Safety Center at Texas A&M University. The discussion explores the intersection of artificial intelligence and process safety, examining how AI can enhance safety performance while addressing potential challenges. Dr. Khan also shares insights into his background, the mission of the MKOPSC, and the broader importance of treating safety as a science rather than just common sense. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions.

This episode of the Pipeliners Podcast features a discussion with Christopher DeLeon and Rhett Dotson from D2 Integrity on the role of artificial intelligence in integrity management. The conversation explores whether AI is a useful tool or just a buzzword, emphasizing the importance of data quality, AI-assisted decision-making, and real-world applications in pipeline operations. The episode also touches on emerging AI-driven technologies, industry trends, and the challenges of integrating AI effectively. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions.

On this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, Stuart Saulters from GPA Midstream joins to talk about the future of the midstream sector over the next four years. The discussion explores shifting regulatory landscapes, permitting challenges, and the broader implications of recent executive actions on energy production and distribution. Stuart shares insights into industry trends, policy changes, and the evolving role of natural gas in the energy market. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions.

In this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, Clint Bodungen of ThreatGEN joins to discuss the intersection of gamification and generative AI in training. The conversation explores how these innovative tools can simulate cybersecurity training scenarios and enhance incident response exercises. Clint and Russel also discuss their collaboration on a PHMSA-sponsored R&D project, where they aim to adapt these technologies for the pipeline industry, offering an exciting glimpse into the potential of AI-driven, multiplayer training environments for pipeline operators. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions.

In this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, host Russel Treat is joined by Tracey Bryant of CenterPoint Energy and Kelee Lusk of Atmos Energy to discuss the Texas Pipeline Awareness Alliance (TPAA). They explore the organization's history, collaborative efforts, and innovative strategies for enhancing public awareness about pipeline safety. The conversation highlights how pooling resources and leveraging modern media technologies help pipeline operators effectively reach diverse stakeholders across Texas. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions.

On this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, host Russel Treat is joined by Bill Herrington, author of The Green Real Deal. The Green Real Deal provides an in-depth exploration of the intersection between energy independence, environmental policy, and national security. Drawing on decades of industry and financial experience, Herrington provides a balanced strategy for a secure and sustainable future. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions.

This episode of the Pipeliners Podcast features Mark LaCour from the Oil and Gas Global Network as he joins Russel Treat to share their predictions for the pipeline industry in 2025. The discussion begins with a review of their predictions from the previous year and an analysis of key trends, including AI-driven pipeline integrity, ESG challenges, and mergers and acquisitions. Looking forward, they explore emerging technologies like smart pipelines and the increasing role of natural gas exports, offering insights into what the future holds for the industry. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions.

This episode of the Pipeliners Podcast celebrates the holiday season and reflects on the journey of the podcast since its inception in 2017. Host Russel Treat shares insights about the mission of the podcast—educating through conversation—and discusses the importance of the pipeliner's role in maintaining critical infrastructure safely and responsibly.

In this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, Russel Treat is joined by Chris Viator, Muddy Boots Support Lead at EnerSys Corporation, to discuss the transformative role of cloud solutions in field operations. The conversation explores how cloud-based tools enhance efficiency, streamline workflows, and address challenges faced by field technicians and back-office teams alike. The episode also examines the evolution of technology in oil and gas operations and the growing importance of cybersecurity in cloud-based systems. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions.

This episode of the Pipeliners Podcast features Ed Landgraf of Texas 811, who shares his insights on marine pipeline sustainability and spill prevention. Ed discusses lessons learned from major underwater pipeline incidents, such as the Huntington Beach anchor drag and the Corpus Christi dredging accident, and highlights the importance of education, stakeholder engagement, and improved communication to mitigate risks. The conversation also touches on unique threats to underwater pipelines, including natural forces, construction activities, and the role of programs like MarineSafe811 in enhancing safety and awareness. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions.

This episode of the Pipeliners Podcast features a conversation with Ross Adams, of EnerSys Corporation, about the importance of implementing a Pipeline Operations Management System (OMS). The discussion examines challenges faced in control rooms, such as alignment across departments and regulatory compliance, and highlights how OMS can create top-down governance to improve efficiency and safety. The episode also explores practical steps for assessing the need for an OMS and how to approach its development. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions.

In this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, host Russel Treat welcomes back Mallory Gill to explore the intricacies of Management of Change (MOC) systems in pipeline operations. Together, they examine the nuances of departmental versus enterprise MOCs, emphasizing their respective roles, benefits, and challenges in risk management. The conversation highlights practical insights from industry feedback, regulatory implications, and the importance of empowering change agents to create a more effective and streamlined MOC process. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions.

This episode of the Pipeliners Podcast features a conversation with CaLae Miller from CEM Solutions about her journey into the pipeline and corrosion industry and the inception of the Piney Woods Corrosion Short Course. CaLae shares insights into creating impactful industry events tailored for corrosion technicians and operators, emphasizing collaboration, regional focus, and educational impact. The discussion highlights how these initiatives address industry needs and foster community in pipeline operations. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions.

In this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, Doug Warren and John Krajewski of AVEVA join to discuss the evolution and significance of digital transformation in pipeline operations, including breaking down data silos and addressing industry challenges like system integration and operational complexity. The conversation highlights the importance of identifying actionable steps toward modernization while emphasizing the potential for improved efficiency, safety, and environmental performance through digital innovation. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions.

In this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, Tom Quinn and Greg Merkel from Marquette Energy Analytics return to discuss the importance of peak demand forecasting for natural gas utilities, especially in preparation for extreme weather events. The episode explores how accurate demand modeling helps ensure utilities can maintain reliable service on peak days, delving into methods of historical data analysis, customer behavior modeling, and regulatory considerations. The conversation also highlights the balance between mathematical precision and the need to communicate complex data clearly to regulatory bodies and stakeholders. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions.

In this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, Tom Quinn and Greg Merkel from Marquette Energy Analytics join to discuss their approach to gas demand forecasting. They discuss the origins of their business, which evolved from a university research lab to a standalone company, and explore the complexities of building accurate forecast models. Tom and Greg also explain the factors that influence gas demand, such as weather patterns and calendar events, and share insights on managing unusual situations like the COVID-19 pandemic in their forecasting models. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions.

In this podcast episode, Keith Coyle from Babst Calland discusses the final stages of the Leak Detection and Repair (LDAR) rule and its regulatory journey. The conversation provides insights into the process, including the role of federal offices like the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and the Gas Pipeline Advisory Committee (GPAC), while also exploring the complexities surrounding regulatory reviews and implications for the pipeline industry. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions.

In this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, host Russel Treat dives into the topic of management of change (MOC) and its critical role in pipeline safety management. Drawing on insights from recent industry discussions and conferences, the episode explores how MOC applies across different operational areas, contrasts it with other industries like plant management, and addresses the complexities of departmental versus enterprise-wide MOC processes. The episode also touches on ongoing challenges and solutions being considered at EnerSys to streamline MOC implementation. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions.

In this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, host Russel Treat speaks with Joshua Ott of Crazeweld about safely purging pipelines. Joshua shares his journey to developing innovative tools for gas purging, including his air mover device, and discusses the challenges and best practices for safely handling gas purging during pipeline operations. The conversation offers insights into standardizing tools and practices across the industry to improve safety and efficiency in these critical processes. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions.

This episode of the Pipeliners Podcast features Mark Piazza from API and Andy Duncan from Enbridge discussing the new API Recommended Practice 1187, focused on managing landslide hazards for pipeline integrity. The conversation covers the development of this standard, its key elements, and the industry collaboration that went into creating it, while also highlighting the practical, adaptable approach operators can take to mitigate geotechnical risks effectively. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions.

In this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, Russel Treat dives into key considerations for alarm management in pipeline operations, drawing on his years of personal experience. The episode covers the challenges of defining alarm severity, rationalizing alarms, and navigating the technical complexities of SCADA systems. Additionally, the episode highlights best practices for ensuring alarms are meaningful, prioritizing critical alarms, and optimizing SCADA for effective alarm management. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions.

In this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, Chris Carville of SCS Technologies joins to talk about approaches to CO2 measurement. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions.

In this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, host Russel Treat is joined by returning guest Keith Coyle of Babst Calland. The episode includes a regulatory update and discussions on the recent GPA and INGAA cases. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions.

In this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, Andre Scholtz from Solarcraft returns to discuss powering remote sites where solar energy isn't viable. The conversation explores alternatives like generators, fuel cells, and wind turbines, diving into the challenges of selecting and maintaining appropriate power sources for remote operations. The episode highlights key considerations around equipment maintenance, fuel sources, and energy storage, offering practical insights for optimizing off-grid power solutions. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions.

In this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, Andre Scholtz from Solarcraft returns to discuss hybrid solutions for remote power systems, particularly in challenging environments. The conversation covers the fundamentals of hybrid power, the various energy sources that can be combined, and the critical considerations for designing reliable systems. The discussion emphasizes the importance of thoughtful design to ensure cost-effectiveness and operational reliability, especially in remote or harsh locations. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions.

In this episode, Russel and Andre discuss the challenges and solutions related to powering remote actuated valves in the context of new U.S. regulations. The conversation highlights key considerations for implementing electric valve actuators, particularly in remote locations, and explores the complexities of using solar power, battery banks, and pneumatic systems to meet regulatory requirements. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions.

In this episode, Russel and Andre discuss the critical factors in optimizing battery life for remote and field applications. They explore the importance of selecting the right battery chemistry, such as lead-acid versus lithium, based on the specific application needs. The conversation covers how environmental conditions like temperature, discharge depth, and the configuration of batteries (series vs. parallel) can significantly impact battery longevity. Andre emphasizes the importance of regular testing and monitoring to ensure reliability and prevent premature failure. The episode provides practical insights for maintaining battery health and extending operational life in demanding environments. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions.

This episode of the Pipeliners Podcast is a rebroadcast of Russel Treat's appearance on a recent episode of Coffee with Jim and James featuring their conversation around leak detection and repair (LDAR) in the pipeline industry. They explore the complexities of detecting and managing leaks of various sizes, the challenges operators face under new regulations, and the importance of effective technology and workflow solutions. The conversation also touches on the broader industry concerns, including the need for knowledge transfer to the next generation and the role of technology in enhancing safety and training. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions.

This week's Pipeliners Podcast episode features Sarah Magruder Lyle going over 8/11 Day and its importance. Sarah discusses different tools and resources available such as DIRT and DPAC to aid in proper digging practices. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions.

In this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, host Russel Treat is joined by Randall Stremmel, President of Pittsburgh Mineral & Environmental Technology (PMET), and Andri Orphanides from the American Petroleum Institute (API) to discuss the Energy4Veterans program. They explore the program's inception, its efforts to engage with veterans, and how it helps them transition into the oil and gas industry by leveraging their military skills. The conversation highlights the importance of providing veterans with certification opportunities to build rewarding careers in the energy sector. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions.

In this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, host Russel Treat speaks with Jack Willingham, the Emergency Management Director of Yazoo County, Mississippi, about the critical intersection of first responders and pipeline operations. They discuss Jack's experience with the Satartia CO2 pipeline rupture and the significant gap between first responders' preparedness and pipeline operators' communication. Jack emphasizes the importance of proactive engagement and comprehensive training to enhance public safety and ensure effective response to pipeline incidents. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions.

In this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, host Russel Treat interviews Vince Murchison of the Murchison Law Firm to discuss the significant role of attorneys in pipeline safety. Vince shares his career journey, insights into pipeline legal work, and the complexities of regulatory compliance and enforcement processes in the pipeline industry. The conversation also touches on stakeholder engagement, the adjudication process, and the importance of clear, persuasive communication in legal and regulatory contexts. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions.