In this gripping episode, we dive deep into the harrowing experiences of Ed, a seasoned diver, as he recounts the catastrophic events of the Piper Alpha disaster. From the initial explosion to the desperate escape, Ed shares his first hand account of survival, resilience, and the lessons learned from one of the deadliest offshore oil disasters in history. Join us as we explore the human spirit's capacity to turn tragedy into a force for good, and the enduring impact of Piper Alpha on safety standards in the industry. This is a story of courage, reflection, and the relentless pursuit of a meaningful life.

The conversation begins with Joe Leather asking Lewis Senior about his career beginnings in the 1970s, leading to a discussion about Lewis's experiences in the North Sea oil industry. Lewis shares anecdotes about his early days, the challenges faced, and the evolution of safety and culture in the industry. He highlights the importance of community and leadership in creating a positive working environment. The discussion also touches on the development of Equilibria, a company focused on improving communication and safety through understanding personality styles. Lewis emphasizes the impact of culture on productivity and safety, sharing examples from various industries. The session concludes with reflections on personal growth, the significance of family, and the potential for positive change in future generations.

In the second part of my conversation with John, he continues to unravel the complexities surrounding the Deepwater Horizon incident. He discusses the intense scrutiny and legal challenges faced during the investigations, sharing personal reflections on the toll it took on him and his colleagues. John also addresses misconceptions perpetuated by the media and highlights the collaborative spirit among the crew despite external pressures. The episode concludes with a candid discussion on the lessons learned and the enduring impact of the incident on those involved.

In the first part of this episode, Joe Leather and John Guide delve into the untold stories behind the Deepwater Horizon incident. John shares his journey from starting in the oil industry in 1980 to his experiences in deep water drilling. The conversation touches on the challenges faced during the Deepwater Horizon operations, the media portrayal, and the subsequent investigations. John provides insights into the complexities of drilling operations and the human side of the story, offering a perspective rarely seen in mainstream narratives.

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of energy with Tom Kirkman, a seasoned expert in the oil and gas industry. From his early days on a farm to managing complex projects across the globe, Tom shares his unique insights on the challenges and realities of energy production. We explore the intricacies of offshore platforms, the role of government subsidies in renewable energy, and the future of AI data centres. Tom's candid views on the energy transition and the importance of standardisation in the industry offer a thought-provoking perspective on the global energy landscape. Tune in for an engaging conversation that challenges conventional wisdom and sheds light on the complexities of powering our world.

Join me as I sits down with Chris Black, a former professional rugby player turned recruitment expert in the oil and gas industry. Discover Chris's journey from the rugby field to founding Jab Recruitment, and how his experiences have shaped his approach to business and life. They delve into the challenges and opportunities within the energy sector, the importance of resilience, and the power of networking. Whether you're interested in career transitions, the energy industry, or personal growth, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration. Tune in to learn how persistence and positivity can lead to success.

In this episode, Mandeep Singh Khalsa shares his remarkable journey from finance to offshore, revealing the pivotal moments and mentors that shaped his career. Mandeep discusses the challenges and rewards of working offshore, emphasizing the importance of building trust and fostering open communication within diverse teams. He reflects on the unique camaraderie of offshore life and the cultural adjustments he made along the way. Mandeep also explores the role of technology and innovation in the energy sector, advocating for a balanced approach to energy security. Join us as we delve into Mandeep's experiences and the lessons he's learned about leadership, diversity, and resilience in the ever-evolving world of engineering.

In this solo episode of Wind, Waves & Wells I talk about what happens when offshore work runs over and the podcast schedule takes a hit. I share my reflections on the energy debate, from oil to wind, the UK’s reliance on imports, and why some of the job creation numbers in renewables don’t tell the full story.

This is a grounded look at the realities of offshore life and the bigger picture of where our energy really comes from.