260: Small Faults, Big Impact - Improving CCUS with Seismic Attributes
“The goal is to keep injected CO₂ safely in place - that’s why understanding fault networks is so critical.” In this episode, host Andrew Geary welcomes David Lubo-Robles, lead author of The Leading Edge paper on detecting small-offset faults for carbon capture and storage (CCUS). David explains how advanced seismic attributes, without relying on machine learning, can help geoscientists better map faults that influence the movement of CO₂ underground. His insights demonstrate the importance of applied geophysics in enabling safer and smarter reservoir management in the era of climate solutions. KEY TAKEAWAYS > Advanced Seismic Attributes Matter: Multispectral coherence and volumetric aberrancy help visualize subtle faults often missed by traditional methods. > Fault Mapping Is Critical for CCUS: Understanding both large and small faults reduces geological risk and improves CO₂ storage safety. > Applied Geophysics Is Essential: From modeling to monitoring, geophysicists play a vital role in every stage of a successful CCUS project. CALL TO ACTION Want to dig deeper into how seismic attributes enhance fault detection for carbon storage? Read David’s paper in The Leading Edge, “Detection of small-offset faults in seismic data: An application for carbon capture and storage.” Whether you're in CCUS, oil and gas, or geothermal, this workflow offers tools you can apply today. Read at https://doi.org/10.1190/tle44040276.1. GUEST BIO David Lubo-Robles is a Research Scientist and Algorithm and Computing Lead for the Attribute Assisted Seismic Processing & Interpretation (AASPI) Consortium at the University of Oklahoma. David received a B.S. in geophysical engineering from Simon Bolivar University, Venezuela, and an M.S. and Ph.D. in geophysics from the University of Oklahoma. His research interests include the development and application of innovative tools using artificial intelligence, quantitative interpretation, and seismic attribute analysis to delineate geologic features suitable for energy and climate solutions. LINKS * Visit https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-260-small-faults-big-impact-improving-ccus-with-seismic-attributes for all the links mentioned in this episode.
5 Juni 24min
259: Inside the Editor’s Desk - Alison Malcolm on Leading SEG’s Flagship Journal
"Publishing at a conference and publishing in GEOPHYSICS are quite different. The journal lets you go deeper and make your work reproducible and usable for others." In this insightful episode, host Andrew Geary speaks with Dr. Alison Malcolm, the former Editor-in-Chief of GEOPHYSICS, SEG's leading journal for applied geophysics. Alison demystifies the often misunderstood editorial process, shares highlights from her tenure, and offers heartfelt advice for authors, reviewers, and future editors. This conversation celebrates the dedicated volunteers behind the journal and sheds light on the upcoming transition to GeoScienceWorld. KEY TAKEAWAYS > Learn how a paper travels through the editorial process from submission to acceptance, including how volunteers play a key role at every stage. > Understand what makes a strong paper submission and how to stand out as a reviewer or future editor. > Explore how the journal is evolving with the transition to a new publishing platform and the impact of AI on the editing process. CALL TO ACTION Visit https://library.seg.org/action/showAlertSettings to sign up for the table of contents for GEOPHYSICS and other SEG publications. It's a great way to stay up to date with the latest technical innovations. And if you're interested in reviewing or editing for the journal, reach out to geopapers@seg.org - your voice and expertise can help shape the future of applied geophysics!
22 Maj 34min
258: Drilling, DAS, and Disagreements - A Real Look at EGS Geophysics
“The difference now is horizontal wells, faster drilling, and better geophysics. That makes today’s EGS attempts more promising than ever.” In this episode, host Andrew Geary talks with Michael Wilt and Bill Cumming, guest editors of the April 2025 The Leading Edge special section on geophysical applications to geothermal exploration and development. With decades of field experience, Bill and Michael dive into the lessons and findings from the U.S. Department of Energy's FORGE Enhanced Geothermal System (EGS) research project and Fervo's Cape Modern EGS commercial project. The interview features thoughtful back-and-forth that reveals the complexity of emerging EGS techniques. They discuss how microseismic monitoring, DAS systems, P-wave velocity models, and well design are shaping the future of EGS development. Importantly, they share practical advice for how geophysicists and students can get involved in this rapidly evolving field. KEY TAKEAWAYS > Utah FORGE and Cape Modern are shaping the practical future of EGS, offering real data and insight into what works, what doesn't, and what still needs to be figured out. > Back-and-forth perspectives from Bill and Michael show that even experts are still navigating unknowns in EGS development, especially around velocity modeling, fiber reliability, and stimulation strategies. > Geophysics is critical in reducing uncertainty in geothermal projects, but models must be questioned and continuously updated as new data arrives. THIS EPISODE SPONSORED BY KATALYST DATA MANAGEMENT Katalyst Data Management® provides the only integrated, end-to-end subsurface data management solution for the oil and gas industry. Its employees operate in North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and South America and are dedicated to optimizing the value of subsurface data, including seismic and well data. Katalyst enables clients’ digital transformation of E&P data with digitizing services and digital transformation consulting. Learn more at www.katalystdm.com. LINKS * Visit https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-258-drilling-das-and-disagreements-a-real-look-at-egs-geophysics for links to the articles in The Leading Edge.
14 Maj 41min
257: How Industry Collaboration Drives Subsurface Innovation with SEAM
“The goal of SEAM is to bring the geophysics community together to solve big, shared problems. We can go much further when we work as a team.” Host Andrew Geary sits down with Arthur Cheng, co-founder of the SEG Advanced Modeling Corporation (SEAM), to discuss how SEAM brings together industry, academia, and government to tackle the toughest geophysical problems. Through advanced numerical modeling, realistic synthetic data, carbon storage, and salt interpretation, Arthur highlights SEAM’s unique role in shaping the future of subsurface exploration and innovation. KEY TAKEAWAYS > SEAM builds ultra-realistic synthetic subsurface models that help validate and test new geophysical methods and tools before applying them in the field. > The organization bridges academia, industry, and government to focus resources on the most pressing geophysical challenges. > SEAM’s current and future projects include modeling for carbon storage, seismic inversion, near-surface imaging, and more—proactively anticipating the next 10–20 years of energy and environmental needs. CALL TO ACTION Visit https://seg.org/SEAM to explore SEAM's current projects, datasets, and opportunities to get involved. Whether you're a student, researcher, or company, SEAM offers a chance to shape the future of applied geophysics. 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 breaks down how SEAM’s synthetic models help us avoid costly mistakes in real data - it’s honestly must-listen stuff. LINKS * Visit https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-257-how-industry-collaboration-drives-subsurface-innovation-with-seam for links to get involved with SEAM and listen to previous episodes on the consortium.
8 Maj 27min
256: Creating Value with 4D - Lessons from a Global Forum
“It’s more than just getting data - it's about inspiring your organization to take action on it.” In this episode, host Andrew Geary talks with Adam Bucki, Co-Chair for the 4D Forum, held in Galveston, TX, in November 2024. The forum brought together geophysicists, engineers, and decision-makers to explore how 4D seismic can create value, reduce cycle times, and optimize production and injection in today’s fast-moving energy landscape. Adam shares insights from keynotes, exciting tech advancements, and how the forum tackled the business and human side of getting 4D adopted across industries. KEY TAKEAWAYS > Real-world impact: Case studies from ConocoPhillips, ExxonMobil, and Chevron showcased how 4D seismic drives better decisions, from infill wells to carbon capture. > Tech meets people: New tools like FWI, fiber optics, and AI are exciting, but real change comes when people across companies are inspired to act on data. > Future-forward thinking: The forum highlighted the need for broader collaboration, especially with reservoir engineers, production teams, and management, to unlock 4D's full value. CALL TO ACTION Check out the 4D Forum abstracts on the SEG Library at https://library.seg.org/doi/book/10.1190/4D-Forum2024 to learn more about the tech, case studies, and ideas shaping the future of reservoir monitoring. If you're curious about getting involved or bringing 4D to your organization, email Debbie Mitchell directly at dmitchell@seg.org. 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 one dives into the real business case for 4D. Perfect for your next pitch to management! LINKS * Visit https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-256-creating-value-with-4d-lessons-from-a-global-forum for links to the abstracts and more information on the 4D Forum.
17 Apr 21min
255: Generative, Physics-Informed and Agentic AI in Geophysics
"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
254: Why Companies and Individuals Should Invest in Humanitarian Science
“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
253: Sustainability, Prosperity, and Geophysics in Latin America
“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 Mars 32min
