Pipeliners Podcast

In this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, Jim Curry of Babst Calland returns for an in-depth discussion on current and upcoming PHMSA rulemakings. The conversation covers the agency's evolving focus on risk-based, technology-driven regulation — including the growing role of AI and advanced analytical tools — and what these changes mean for operators. Curry also provides insights into regulatory reform, repair criteria modernization, and how industry can engage proactively to shape durable, data-driven rules that improve safety and efficiency. 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 Osten Olorunsola of Aradel Holdings about the opportunities and challenges of building measurement capability at the national level in Nigeria. The discussion explores the critical role of measurement in oil and gas operations, the regulatory landscape, and the impact of shifting from multinational operators to indigenous companies. Listeners gain insight into how Nigeria is working to standardize practices, close capability gaps, and strengthen its long-term energy infrastructure. 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 Ben Gilman about the American Gas Association's GIS and Asset Records Management Committee. The discussion explores the evolution of mapping and GIS in the utility industry, the committee's focus on improving accuracy and best practices, and the growing importance of integrating GIS with asset management and field operations. The conversation highlights how these developments are shaping the future of records management, regulatory compliance, and damage prevention in pipeline and utility operations. 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 welcomes back Keith Coyle, now serving as Chief Counsel at PHMSA, to discuss his new role and the agency's current priorities. The conversation highlights leadership changes within PHMSA, the administration's push for greater efficiency and impact, and the agency's updated approach to rulemaking, enforcement, and safety priorities. Listeners get a high-level view of how PHMSA is focusing its efforts to drive meaningful improvements in pipeline safety. 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 Marissa Anderson of Magnolia River and Gary Choquette of PRCI about the Pipeline Open Data Standard (PODS) and the new SCADA Link module. The conversation explores how PODS provides a geospatial framework for managing pipeline data, the value of linking SCADA data to precise pipeline locations, and the broader implications for leak detection, hydraulic modeling, and asset management. The guests also highlight the importance of data standards and governance in advancing safety and efficiency across 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, we revisit our conversation with Clint Bodungen of ThreatGEN. The discussion focuses on the application of gamification and generative AI in professional training, specifically for enhancing cybersecurity and incident response exercises. The episode also explores a PHMSA-sponsored R&D project that is adapting these advanced technologies for the unique operational needs of the pipeline industry, highlighting the development of AI-driven, multiplayer training 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 features pipeline consultant and former pipeline engineer with Phillips 66, Ed Hetsko, discussing the complexities of pipeline encroachment. The conversation defines what an encroachment is and explores the challenges that arise as urban areas expand around once-rural pipelines. Hetsko also explores the various methods and technologies used to manage these issues. 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 Rob Day of Cognisense to discuss AI Based Risk Washing in Training Delivery. In this episode, Rob discusses his background, as well as the relatively new risk regarding pipeline training and AI. 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 Suzanne Ogle and Cindy Anderson from the SGA Natural Gas Association. They discuss the association's mission, which is centered on providing training and development to the natural gas industry's workforce. The discussion also touches on the organization's recent rebrand and its role in fostering collaboration and a shared understanding across the entire natural gas value chain. 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, Sarah Magruder Lyle of the Common Ground Alliance returns to discuss 811 Day and the latest insights from the annual DIRT report. The conversation explores systemic challenges in underground utility damage prevention, including inconsistent regulations, outdated mapping, and underutilized technology. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the industry's current state and what it will take to drive meaningful progress. 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 is joined by Mike Mercer from the High Reliability Group to explore what it means to be a high-reliability organization (HRO). The conversation covers how leadership, culture, and standardized processes contribute to safety and performance in high-consequence industries like nuclear and pipeline operations. Listeners will gain insight into how deliberate leadership behaviors can build more resilient teams and better prepare organizations to manage the unexpected. 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 Scott Sanders of Enbridge and Chrystah Carter of Plains to discuss the recently revised API Recommended Practice 1161, which provides guidance on Operator Qualification (OQ) for hazardous liquid pipelines. The conversation covers the history and purpose of the OQ rule, the collaborative process behind the latest updates to the standard, and the increasing emphasis on performance-based tasks and training efficacy. Listeners will gain insight into the significance of OQ programs in supporting safety, reducing risk, and advancing pipeline operational excellence. 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 Jeff Barry to discuss the complex topic of managing geomorphic and hydrotechnical risk at pipeline water crossings. Jeff shares insights from his background in hydrology and sediment transport, highlighting how natural river processes like scour, erosion, and channel migration can impact pipeline integrity. The conversation explores industry practices, regulatory guidance, and the importance of anticipating future river behavior to mitigate pipeline risk. 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 Jeff Barry to discuss the complex topic of managing geomorphic and hydrotechnical risk at pipeline water crossings. Jeff shares insights from his background in hydrology and sediment transport, highlighting how natural river processes like scour, erosion, and channel migration can impact pipeline integrity. The conversation explores industry practices, regulatory guidance, and the importance of anticipating future river behavior to mitigate pipeline risk. 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, Colin Frazier from API returns to discuss the latest on API's Operator and newly launched Contractor Assessment Programs. The conversation explores the evolution, structure, and goals of the contractor-focused initiatives, emphasizing the importance of continuous improvement and collaboration between operators and contractors to enhance safety culture across the pipeline industry. Listeners gain insight into how API is working to provide practical tools and assessments tailored to contractors of all sizes. 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 U.S. Representative Randy Weber of Texas about his background, the energy profile of his district, and his motivation for co-sponsoring the Next Generation Pipeline Research and Development Act. Their conversation explores the strategic importance of energy infrastructure on the Gulf Coast, the evolving needs of the pipeline industry, and how bipartisan efforts in Congress are addressing modernization, safety, and emerging energy technologies. This episode offers a unique window into the intersection of policy, infrastructure, and energy leadership from a Congressional perspective. 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 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.