We were lucky to catch up with JP Warren recently and have shared our conversation below.

JP, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. We’d love to hear from you about what you think Corporate America gets wrong in your industry and why it matters.

Oh, this question is right up my alley, and it’s something I’ve passionately discussed on my platforms over and over again! Corporate America, especially when it comes to the industry I’m deeply intertwined with, often misses the mark. Here’s my take on what they get wrong about the oil & gas industry:

Stereotypes: The imagery the industry has – either of an dirty, uneducated worker or the cold-hearted, careless executive – is just so far from reality. Putting those stereotypes aside and you’ll find the oil & gas sector teeming with brilliant engineers, spirited entrepreneurs, tech aficionados, AI champions, marketing gurus, and even influencers. It’s a vibrant and dynamic space where creativity meets collaboration, and it’s never a dull moment!

Camp Mentality: It’s essential to understand that the energy sector isn’t an “either/or” game. Most conversations with people in the energy industrires and energy enthusiasts, irrespective of their domain (be it oil & gas or renewable sources), are “energy maximalists.” They recognize that a holistic approach to energy is what will sustain us in the long run. It’s akin to a balanced diet; excessive reliance on one source can have repercussions. The politicization of energy doesn’t serve anyone – especially not those grappling with energy poverty or everyday families juggling their expenses.

Recognizing the Benefits: Hydrocarbons aren’t just a part of our lives; they’re instrumental. Think about it – from the devices we’re glued to, the electric vehicles we drive, essential medical equipment, to even the blades of a wind turbine – they all owe their existence to hydrocarbons. And while there are downsides (like with anything), it’s crucial to remember and highlight the myriad of benefits they bring to the table.

The Misconception of Transition: Many talk about the “energy transition,” but what we’re truly witnessing is an “energy addition.” Given the burgeoning population, untested tech solutions, natural reliability and economical issues with renewables, and a significant chunk of the global population still struggling with energy access, every bit of energy matters. Energy isn’t just a necessity; it’s an enabler of progress and helps the human population flourish.

In essence, energy discussions deserve nuance, appreciation, and a holistic approach. It’s high time we recognized that and worked together towards a sustainable future.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I was born in Houston, moved to Westport, CT when I was 8 years old and decided to head back to Texas A&M for college, there I recieved a marketing degree, and later took a leap across the Atlantic to earn my masters in France. Returning to Houston post-graduation, I couldn’t find a job and began a six-month job hunt. Finally after filling out what felt like hundreds of Monster.com applications, a staffing company became my conduit to the oil and gas realm. After a two-decade-long journey spanning nine countries, I sensed an entrepreneurial itch that demanded attention.

Reflecting on my experiences at networking events and even in the sales role, I noticed a trend. Traditional relationship-building was waning, with impersonal, fake, and transactional relationships stepping into the void. Networking events, once rich with opportunity, now felt like commercial shark tanks where the majority were there for a free cocktail or a “what can you do for me” feel. It dawned on me during the pandemic: in the world of professional evolution, it’s often less about your resume and more about your rolodex. The age-old adage rang true: it’s not just WHAT you know, but WHO you know.

At 41, I embarked on an entrepreneurial voyage with a vague yet distinct mission – fostering genuine networking and connecting people. Thus, the ‘Crue Club’ was born. Designed as a haven for operators to engage without the looming shadow of a sales pitch, the Crue Club aimed to usher in genuine rapport building. Initial skepticism (“A networking event without pitches?”) soon morphed into enthusiastic endorsements. Attendees cherished our events as ideal avenues to bond with peers, glean insights, identify market trends, and forge enduring connections. Our events are small in size, but create some of the best networks in the industry.

Emboldened by our success, we’re excited to unveil two new networking inner circle/Master Mind structured – Exec Crüe and Connection Crüe.

Exec Crüe is tailored for executives, founders, and leaders who are looking to share and gain knowledge and network expansion. The idea is simple: everyone can be a teacher, and everyone can be a student. I’ve personally drawn immense wisdom from people who have been in my shoes before, who have told me what to look out for, what I need to think about before embarking on my endeavor, and more insight, and Exec Crüe is my ode to formalizing such invaluable exchanges. An additional benefit for members is that I will be providing my executive coaching skills and guiding members if needed where it’s needed.

Conversely, Connection Crüe caters to the industry’s future executives and founders. While paralleling the ethos of Exec Crüe, it zeroes in on individuals gearing up to claim their place in the executive echelons. Our mission is twofold: personal development and robust community building.

As future generations are important, we also host Kids Crüe, which brings kids and families together to promote STEM activities and hobbies, and we provide energy education in a fun and exciting atmosphere.

Essentially, my brand is all about forging connections – connections that are rich, authentic, collaborative, and above all, genuine. Think of me as your corporate matchmaker, ensuring every interaction is laced with purpose and potential.

What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?

In a world brimming with brilliant ideas, only a select few ever transition from mere concepts to tangible creations. From traffic jams to campfire chats, inspiration strikes us daily. Yet, despite these countless lightbulb moments, few initiatives see the light of day and even fewer morph into successful businesses.

The crux often lies in the communication of the product or brand. No matter how revolutionary an idea is, its potential dwindles if it’s not aptly communicated. So, before you even think about pushing your product, prioritize marketing. It’s not just about selling; it’s about understanding and rectifying flaws through feedback and ensuring your product aligns with customer needs.

To simplify, remember to gauge if your product has the FEVER, which is something I created during one of my many flights traveling to all the Crüe events:

F – Feeling- What emotions does your product evoke? Is it a tool of convenience or a luxury item that represents exclusivity? Understand the narrative behind your product and convey that story to your audience.

E – Expectations – Clearly communicate what customers should anticipate. From the ease of use to after-sales service, establish and surpass expectations to differentiate from competitors.

V -Value – Move past the misconception of “value” as a mere price point. Shift the narrative to showcase the unique benefits and indispensability of your offering. What unparalleled benefits does your product bring? Highlight them.

E – Exposure – Your product’s brilliance won’t matter if it remains hidden. Dive into marketing, innovate, and ensure your idea doesn’t just stay an idea.

R – Repetition – Continue to tell your story, reframe your message many times, utilize your social media channels, and continue to tell, retell, and retell your message until it sticks!

Does your brand have the FEVER?

Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?

Hot take: The whole notion of “hustle culture” is a myth and a dangerous one at that. For a time, I believed success was synonymous with relentless grind—waking up before dawn, burning the midnight oil, and chasing the dollar at every waking moment. But that’s a skewed perspective.

Sure, hard work and dedication are requirements for any thriving business. However, this shouldn’t come at the cost of your mental well-being. I soon realized that an obsessive focus on profits added unnecessary stress and distanced me from my true goals. It’s vital to prioritize creativity and genuine passion over mere revenue generation.

The moment I shifted from a “money mindset” to embracing the joy and creativity in my work, success felt more tangible. And remember, if you have kids, they’ll remember the times you were too “busy hustling” over the cherished moments you could’ve spent together. My a-ha moment was when my daughter mentioned that I was always working on my computer. At first, I thought it was cute and funny, but slowly I realized that was her memories of me more than an observation, so that had to change.

Work hard, absolutely, but don’t be consumed by the endless race of hustle culture. Balance is key.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.connectioncrue.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/energycrue/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jp-warren-0888384/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@energycrue/videos
• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@youcrue