Seismic Soundoff

"We’re not replacing geophysicists; we’re giving them superpowers to analyze data faster and better." Explore the cutting-edge world of generative and physics-informed AI with Vladimir Kazei, guest editor for The Leading Edge. AI is transforming geophysics, from revolutionizing seismic imaging to pushing the boundaries of computational efficiency. Vladimir shares how these advancements reshape subsurface exploration and what this means for the industry's future. KEY TAKEAWAYS > What geophysicists can do today - AI tools are already available to assist with seismic inversion, velocity model building, and data interpretation. Geophysicists can start experimenting with these technologies now. > AI and computational efficiency - Machine learning drastically reduces processing times, allowing faster and more cost-effective subsurface analysis. > The road to adoption - Successful AI integration in geophysics depends on bridging knowledge gaps, fostering collaboration, and ensuring transparency in machine learning models. CALL TO ACTION Want to dive deeper into this exciting field? Check out The Leading Edge’s special issue on AI in geophysics and explore Vladimir’s editorial insights. You can find it at https://library.seg.org/toc/leedff/44/2. SHARE THIS EPISODE If you found this episode helpful, please message a friend to listen. To help out, here’s a possible message you could send them. AI isn’t just hype - this episode highlights real applications making a difference today. GUEST BIO Vladimir Kazei is a research geophysicist at Aramco Americas. Vladimir received his PhD in Geophysics from the Saint Petersburg State University and the Schmidt Institute of the Physics of the Earth of the Russian Academy of Sciences in 2016. He then worked as a research scientist at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology before joining the Houston Research Center of Aramco Americas in 2020. Vladimir’s contributions to applied geophysics in areas of machine learning, Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS), and Full-Waveform Inversion (FWI) were noted as groundbreaking innovations by the Society of Exploration Geophysicists (SEG) and marked with a prestigious Clarence J. Karcher award in 2023. He actively participates in organizing SEG’s workshops on DAS and AI. Since 2023, Vladimir has served on The Leading Edge journal editorial board and has led special sections on Digitalization, Sustainability, and Generative and Physics-Informed AI. LINKS * Visit https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-255-generative-physics-informed-and-agentic-ai-in-geophysics for links to the articles in The Leading Edge.

10 Apr 28min

“For companies, supporting GWB isn’t just philanthropy – it’s a smart investment in the future of geophysics and global resilience.” Geoscientists without Borders (GWB) is changing lives using geophysics to tackle real-world humanitarian challenges. In this episode, Bob Merrill, Chair of the GWB Steering Committee, shares inspiring stories of geophysicists helping communities access clean water, prepare for natural disasters, and uncover archaeological wonders. Learn how companies and individuals can support these life-changing projects – and why investing in geoscience for good benefits everyone. KEY TAKEAWAYS > Geophysics in Action – Real-world examples of how GWB is helping communities with water resources, disaster resilience, and cultural heritage preservation. > The Power of Partnership – How collaborations between scientists, students, and local communities create long-lasting change. > Why You Should Get Involved – Geophysicists, companies, and donors can support GWB’s mission in many ways, which is good for business and society. CALL TO ACTION Get involved with Geoscientists without Borders! Visit https://seg.org/gwb to learn about funded projects, donate, or apply to lead a project. Whether a student, researcher, or industry professional, your skills and support can make a difference. SHARE THIS EPISODE If you found this episode helpful, please message a friend to listen. To help out, here’s a possible message you could send them. This episode is a must-listen if you want to use your geophysics skills for good. It’s full of ways you (or your company) can get involved with GWB! LINKS * Visit https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-254-why-companies-and-individuals-should-invest-in-humanitarian-science to find links to additional GWB podcasts and donate to GWB. GUEST BIO Robert Merrill has over thirty years of industry experience, where he has worked for American Stratigraphic Company, Cities Service Company, Occidental, Unocal, and Samson in various domestic and international exploration and staff positions. He's currently president of Catheart Energy, Inc. Dr. Merrill has his PhD and MS from Arizona State University and his BA in geology from Colby College.

1 Apr 28min

“Geophysicists have an incredible ability to see what’s below the surface – now we need to make sure the world sees what we do above it.” Sustainability isn’t just about the environment – it’s about people, the planet, and prosperity. Dr. Maria Angela Capello shares how geophysicists drive sustainability in Latin America and beyond in this episode. From innovative projects that support economic growth to real-world solutions addressing climate change, this conversation will inspire you to see geophysics as a powerful force for good. KEY TAKEAWAYS > How geophysics shapes sustainable development – real-world projects advancing environmental stewardship and economic growth. > The power of communication in science – why geophysicists must tell their story clearly and compellingly. > Practical steps for geophysicists – engaging with sustainability frameworks and advocating for responsible decision-making. CALL TO ACTION Don’t miss Maria Angela Capello’s upcoming honorary lecture, Rocking Sustainability: Geophysics’ Role in a Greener, Prosperous, and Socially Conscious Latin America. Register now to dive deeper into the role of geophysics in sustainability and discover actionable ways to make a difference at https://seg.org/education/lectures/seg-honorary-lecture-maria-angela-capello/. > 8 April 2025, 9 AM (CDT) > 6 May 2025, 3 PM (CDT) SHARE THIS EPISODE If you found this episode helpful, please message a friend to listen. To help out, here’s a possible message you could send them. You have to check out this episode of Seismic Soundoff! Maria Angela Capello shares incredible stories about geophysics making a real impact on sustainability in Latin America. You’ll love it! LINKS * Visit https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-253-sustainability-prosperity-and-geophysics-in-latin-america to register for Maria Angela's lecture and learn more about The Geophysical Sustainability Atlas. GUEST BIO Dr. Maria Angela Capello (MAC) is the President of Red Tree Consulting LLC and a distinguished leader in the energy sector. She spearheads initiatives in sustainability, diversity and inclusion (D&I), and geosciences. MAC has held prominent roles at Kuwait Oil Company, Halliburton, and Petróleos de Venezuela (PDVSA). She has been honored by the Italian Government with the “Star of Italy” knighthood and by UNESCO endorsing her work leading the “Geosciences in Action – Advancing Sustainable Development”. SHOW CREDITS Andrew Geary at TreasureMint hosted, edited, and produced this episode. The SEG podcast team comprises Jennifer Cobb, Kathy Gamble, and Ally McGinnis. If you have episode ideas or feedback for the show or want to sponsor a future episode, email the show at podcast@seg.org.

21 Mar 32min

“Geophysics lets us predict rock properties where well data is sparse - this is crucial for understanding carbon storage potential.” What if Alaska’s North Slope holds the key to large-scale carbon storage? In this episode, Rae Jacobsen discusses his research on the Ivishak Formation, revealing how geophysics can unlock new possibilities for carbon sequestration. Rae shares how simultaneous inversion, geobody extraction, and machine learning techniques help identify world-class reservoirs and why this could reshape the future of carbon storage. Dr. Rae Jacobsen is a Senior Geophysicist at ConocoPhillips Alaska. His skillset includes prospect exploration and maturation, 3D seismic interpretation, seismic attribute generation/analysis, reservoir characterization, horizontal well planning, well operations and geosteering, lease development, and well log correlation/interpretation. KEY TAKEAWAYS > Game-Changing Carbon Storage Potential: Rae’s research estimates between 1.2 to 3.8 gigatons of carbon storage in the Ivishak Formation - comparable to some of the best reservoirs in the world. > Innovative Geophysical Techniques: Learn how simultaneous inversion and geobody extraction refine our ability to predict reservoir properties, even with limited well data. > The Economics of Carbon Storage: While the geology looks promising, infrastructure and costs remain key challenges, with potential game-changers like a new gas pipeline on the horizon. CALL TO ACTION Want to dive deeper into this research? Rae’s paper is open-access so that you can read it right now in The Leading Edge! Please share it with a colleague, discuss it at your next team meeting, or explore how these methods could apply to your work. https://doi.org/10.1190/tle44010007.1 TEXT A FRIEND If you value this free resource, please message a friend or colleague about this episode. We've provided a sentence you can copy and use to make it as simple as possible. Rae explains how geophysics can help repurpose old oil fields for carbon storage. Super relevant to what we’ve been talking about! https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-252-how-the-ivishak-formation-could-change-carbon-sequestration LINKS * Visit https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-252-how-the-ivishak-formation-could-change-carbon-sequestration for links to the articles in The Leading Edge. SHOW CREDITS Andrew Geary at TreasureMint hosted, edited, and produced this episode. The SEG podcast team comprises Jennifer Cobb, Kathy Gamble, and Ally McGinnis. If you have episode ideas or feedback for the show or want to sponsor a future episode, email the show at podcast@seg.org.

11 Mar 22min

"The difference between an ordinary geophysicist and a great one? Knowing when noise is actually signal." Joe Dellinger discusses his new book, Forensic Data Processing. In this episode, Joe shares how his career journey – from growing up surrounded by geophysics to pioneering low-frequency seismic applications – inspired him to write this book as his legacy. Host Andrew Geary and Joe dive into why understanding seismic data at a deeper level is essential, how to spot valuable insights others miss, and why forensic data processing can be a game-changer for geophysicists and managers alike. KEY TAKEAWAYS > Look under the hood – Treat seismic data like a Michelin-star meal, not fast food. The best insights come when you pay close attention to the details. > Balance curiosity and rigor – Innovation happens when you mix wild experimentation with deep, methodical analysis. The best teams need both kinds of thinkers. > Why managers should care – Joe’s book isn’t just for technical readers; it also offers valuable lessons for leaders on fostering a high-performing geophysics team. CALLS TO ACTION * For the geophysicist: If you’ve ever wondered what hidden insights your seismic data holds, this book will show you how to find them. * For team leaders: Want to build a high-performing geophysics team? Joe’s lessons on research culture are a must-read. TEXT A COLLEAGUE Joe’s insights on managing geophysicists are spot on – send this to your boss so they finally get what we do! https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-251-from-noise-to-knowledge-lessons-in-geophysics-and-innovation/ GUEST BIO Joe Dellinger received a Ph.D. in 1991 from Jon Claerbout’s Stanford Exploration Project. He then did a three-year post-doc at the University of Hawaii before joining Amoco in Tulsa in 1994. He moved to BP in Houston in 1999 and has worked there since. In his career, he has specialized in anisotropy, multi-component algorithms, and processing and most recently investigated the problem of how to record ultra-low frequencies that enabled algorithms like FWI to resolve complex velocity-model-building challenges in deep-water marine environments. Joe was awarded Lifetime Membership at the SEG in 2001 for his services in helping the SEG to successfully adapt to the internet age, honorary membership in 2016, and the Kauffman Award in 2021 for his efforts in developing the industry’s abilities to record ultra-low frequencies. Dellinger’s hobbies include attending the Houston Symphony, photographing birds, recording frog calls in the swamps around Houston, and astronomy at the George Observatory. Asteroid “78392 Dellinger” was named in his honor. LINKS * Buy the Print Book at https://seg.org/shop/product/?id=da74b583-6d91-ef11-ac21-6045bdd34421 * Listen to Joe's first interview on this topic -> https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-136-the-hidden-stories-data-tell/ * Visit https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-251-from-noise-to-knowledge-lessons-in-geophysics-and-innovation/ for the complete show notes. SHOW CREDITS Andrew Geary at TreasureMint hosted, edited, and produced this episode. The SEG podcast team comprises Jennifer Cobb, Kathy Gamble, and Ally McGinnis. If you have episode ideas or feedback for the show or want to sponsor a future episode, email the show at podcast@seg.org.

6 Mar 31min

"Humanitarian geophysics isn’t separate from the industry – it’s part of what makes our profession so valuable to the world." In this episode, Geophysical Society of Houston Honoree Craig Beasley discusses the importance of the Geoscientists without Borders (GWB) program for companies interested in aligning with the UNSDGs and achieving their CSR goals. He also shares insights on how geoscientists can use their skills and experience from traditional (O&G) exploration work to contribute to solving humanitarian challenges globally. KEY TAKEAWAYS > The Origins of GWB – Craig shares how a personal connection to the 2004 Boxing Day tsunami and early skepticism from universities led to the creation of GWB. > The Power of Applied Geophysics – GWB projects have made a tangible difference in communities worldwide, from groundwater exploration to natural disaster preparedness. > The Future of Humanitarian Geophysics – Craig discusses the ongoing funding challenges and the importance of inspiring the next generation of geoscientists. CALL TO ACTION Visit Geoscientists without Borders to learn more about current projects, see how you can support them, or even propose your project to make a difference. https://seg.org/gwb TEXT A FRIEND RIGHT NOW! Craig Beasley explains why humanitarian geophysics is more important than ever. You will like this episode if you care about using science for good! https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-250-bridging-science-and-society-the-impact-of-geoscientists-without-borders GUEST BIO Craig Beasley completed B.S., M.S., and Ph.D. degrees in mathematics and joined Western Geophysical in 1981. He has spent his entire career in Schlumberger companies and their antecedents, serving in various technical and management positions, including VP for R&D and VP of Data Processing. He has received technical and honorary awards from entities such as Litton Industries, Schlumberger, and the Society of Exploration Geophysicists. In retirement, he has served as the General Chair for the 2017 SEG Annual Meeting in Houston, sits on the board of the SEG Foundation, and enjoys pursuing his passion for underwater photography and video. He has recently been elected President-elect for the Geophysical Society of Houston. LINKS * Learn more about GWB and previous projects -> https://seg.org/programs/geoscientists-without-borders/ * Donate to Geoscientists without Borders -> https://foundation.seg.org/forms/seg-foundation- * Register for the GSH Spring Symposium -> https://www.gshtx.org/Public/SharedContent/Events/Event_Display.aspx?EventKey=4ca2978c-e6e0-4eb3-969f-6207b27e604f&iSearchResult=true * Visit https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-250-bridging-science-and-society-the-impact-of-geoscientists-without-borders for the full show notes. SHOW CREDITS Andrew Geary at TreasureMint hosted, edited, and produced this episode. The SEG podcast team comprises Jennifer Cobb, Kathy Gamble, and Ally McGinnis. If you have episode ideas or feedback for the show or want to sponsor a future episode, email the show at podcast@seg.org.

20 Feb 27min

“The biggest challenge for geophysicists? Learning machine learning's ‘new language’ from the world of statistics.” Machine learning is transforming geoscience, and Gerard Schuster explains how. This conversation explores key ML applications in seismic interpretation, the role of convolutional neural networks in fault detection, and why hands-on labs are essential for mastering these techniques. With real-world examples and insights from his new book, Machine Learning Methods in Geoscience, this episode delivers practical knowledge for integrating ML into geophysics. KEY TAKEAWAYS > Why ML matters for geoscientists – The demand for ML skills is growing, and Jerry shares how this shift shapes education and careers. > CNNs in action – Convolutional neural networks are used to detect rock cracks in Saudi Arabia through drone imagery. > Transformers vs. traditional neural networks – Transformers process seismic data differently by capturing long-range dependencies, offering new advantages. NEXT STEP Explore Machine Learning Methods in Geoscience by Gerard Schuster, featuring hands-on MATLAB and Colab labs. Get the book and start applying ML techniques today! https://library.seg.org/doi/epdf/10.1190/1.9781560804048.fm TEXT A FRIEND These are great insights on how ML is actually being used in seismic work, not just theory. https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-249-machine-learning-methods-in-geoscience GUEST BIO Gerard Schuster has an M.S. (1982) and a Ph.D. (1984) from Columbia University and was a postdoctoral researcher there from 1984 to 1985. From 1985 to 2009, he was a professor of geophysics at the University of Utah and became a professor of geophysics at KAUST (2009–2021). He is currently a research professor at the University of Utah. He received several teaching and research awards while at the University of Utah. He was editor of GEOPHYSICS 2004–2005 and was awarded SEG’s Virgil Kauffman Gold Medal in 2010 for his work in seismic interferometry. His previous books are Seismic Interferometry (2009, Cambridge Press) and Seismic Inversion (2017, SEG). LINKS * Buy the Print Book at https://seg.org/shop/product/?id=fe5a3cd3-77b2-ef11-b8e8-6045bda82e05 * Visit https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-249-machine-learning-methods-in-geoscience for the full guest bios and show notes. CALL FOR ABSTRACTS Technical Program Chairs Yingcai Zheng and Molly Turko invite you to submit your best work. This year, we're fostering deeper collaboration between SEG, AAPG, and SEPM. Focus on regional challenges and how integrated geoscience can unlock solutions. Submit short or expanded abstracts for oral and poster presentations. The Call for Abstracts is open and closes on 15 March at 5:00 PM CT. Don't miss this opportunity to share your research and connect with the broader geoscience community at https://www.imageevent.org/. SHOW CREDITS Andrew Geary at TreasureMint hosted, edited, and produced this episode. The SEG podcast team comprises Jennifer Cobb, Kathy Gamble, and Ally McGinnis. If you have episode ideas or feedback for the show or want to sponsor a future episode, email the show at podcast@seg.org.

13 Feb 24min

"Reservoir characterization has evolved beyond oil and gas. It’s now central to our clean energy future." In this episode, Andrew Geary speaks with Satinder Chopra and Heather Bedle, guest editors for December’s The Leading Edge special section on reservoir characterization. They explore how this critical topic is transforming as geophysics expands its role in the global energy transition. From carbon storage to geothermal and hydrogen solutions, this episode highlights why reservoir characterization is at the heart of our clean energy future. KEY TAKEAWAYS > The Expanding Role of Reservoir Characterization: Learn how techniques traditionally used in oil and gas are now essential for carbon storage, geothermal projects, and hydrogen exploration. > Cutting-Edge Techniques in Action: Discover how advanced methods like full waveform inversion (FWI) and machine learning enhance our ability to map and monitor subsurface formations. > The Importance of Collaboration: Hear why integrating geophysics with geology, engineering, and other disciplines is crucial for solving modern subsurface challenges. NEXT STEP Explore the special section on reservoir characterization in December’s The Leading Edge. Dive into the nine papers for actionable insights and real-world applications to guide your projects and decisions. https://library.seg.org/toc/leedff/43/12 TEXT A FRIEND Satinder and Heather share how AI and FWI are reshaping how we image the subsurface - inspiring information! https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-248-ai-fwi-and-the-future-of-subsurface-imaging/ GUEST BIOS Satinder Chopra is the founder and President of SamiGeo Consulting Ltd., located in Calgary. With 40 years of experience as a geophysicist, he specializes in processing, special processing, and the interactive interpretation of seismic data for reservoir characterization. His research interests focus on techniques for reservoir characterization. Dr. Heather Bedle is the Principal Investigator for Attribute-Assisted Seismic Processing and Interpretation (AASPI) and an Assistant Professor at the University of Oklahoma in the School of Geosciences. Her research and teaching focus on applying and developing advanced seismic interpretation. LINKS * Visit https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-248-ai-fwi-and-the-future-of-subsurface-imaging/ for links to the articles in The Leading Edge and the full guest bios. CALL FOR ABSTRACTS Technical Program Chairs Yingcai Zheng and Molly Turko invite you to submit your best work. This year, we're fostering deeper collaboration between SEG, AAPG, and SEPM. Focus on regional challenges and how integrated geoscience can unlock solutions. Submit short or expanded abstracts for oral and poster presentations. The Call for Abstracts is open and closes on 15 March at 5:00 PM CT. Don't miss this opportunity to share your research and connect with the broader geoscience community at https://www.imageevent.org/call-for-abstracts. SHOW CREDITS Andrew Geary at TreasureMint hosted, edited, and produced this episode. The SEG podcast team comprises Jennifer Cobb, Kathy Gamble, and Ally McGinnis. If you have episode ideas or feedback for the show or want to sponsor a future episode, email the show at podcast@seg.org.

6 Feb 33min