Energy impacts far more than the price you pay at the pump.

In this episode of The Values Exchange, Mike Crews sits down with Brad Olson, Co-Founder and Portfolio Manager at Recurrent Investment Advisors, to discuss how energy markets shape inflation, global stability, AI growth, and investment portfolios.

Brad shares how his time living in Russia shaped his perspective on energy, property rights, rule of law, and the geopolitical importance of reliable energy supply. He also explains how the United States has shifted from a major energy importer to one of the world’s most important energy suppliers, and why that change matters for investors.

The conversation also covers why energy may be underrepresented in many portfolios, how energy prices can affect cost-of-living inflation, and why AI data centers are creating new demand for electricity and natural gas.

Topics discussed:

• Energy investing and portfolio exposure

• U.S. energy exports and global markets

• Energy as a potential inflation hedge

• AI, data centers, and power demand

• Geopolitical risk and energy security

• Common misconceptions about oil, gas, and renewables

In this episode of The Values Exchange, Mike Crews sits down with Dennis Connors — U.S. Marine veteran, former special operations intelligence professional, and Paralympic silver medalist — to explore what perseverance really means.

After multiple traumatic brain injuries, two strokes, severe PTSD, and relearning how to walk, Dennis refused to give up on the passions that defined him: climbing, cycling, competing, and serving others. His journey from combat to the Paralympic podium is a powerful story of resilience, identity, and long-term perseverance.

In this conversation, we discuss:

• The difference between grit and perseverance

• Overcoming adversity after trauma and life-altering setbacks

• Rebuilding identity after military service

• Mental health, vulnerability, and asking for help

• The four pillars of perseverance: vulnerability, self-love, disciplined action, and community

If you are navigating a transition, pursuing a demanding goal, or facing a difficult season, this episode offers practical insight and lasting perspective.

Perseverance is not just pushing harder. It is staying committed to what you love, even when the path changes.

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#Perseverance #Resilience #Paralympics #VeteranStories #MentalHealth #Leadership #TheValuesExchange

What changes when everything you thought mattered suddenly falls away?

In this powerful episode of The Values Exchange Podcast, Mike Crews sits down with renowned aviator and entrepreneur Mark Patey to explore his near death experience and the perspective it reshaped forever. Mark shares what it felt like to face death, what he experienced beyond it, and how that moment fundamentally altered how he views life, success, identity, and connection.

This conversation goes far beyond aviation. Together, they unpack the value of perspective, the freedom that comes from letting go of ego and labels, and why we do not have to wait until death to live with clarity, peace, and purpose. Mark reflects on spirituality versus religion, the idea of being enough, the danger of division, and what truly matters when achievement and possessions no longer define us.

If you have ever questioned your priorities, struggled with anxiety, or wondered what gives life real meaning, this episode offers a thoughtful reminder that perspective can change everything.

Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a Registered Investment Advisor. Member FINRA/SIPC. This information is not intended to be a substitute for individualized legal advice. Please consult your legal advisor regarding your specific situation.