

Colin O’Farrell: He Was On the Verge of Private Island Money - Then Lost it All - Money Stories Ep 23
Aug 15, 2025
Colin O’Farrell shares his incredible journey through the oil and gas industry, detailing the personal toll of high-stakes entrepreneurship. He reflects on the exhilarating highs of startup success and the pressures that accompany rapid growth. After facing major health challenges post-exit, Colin emphasizes the importance of pausing to reflect before diving into new ventures. He discusses assessing risks with clarity and how true wealth is built on sustainable practices rather than just returns. His story highlights resilience and the necessity of balanced decision-making.
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From Academia To The Shale Gold Rush
- Colin left academia for Pioneer to work at the tip of the shale revolution and learn deal-making first-hand.
- That early training at Pioneer set the foundation for later private-equity exploration ventures.
Land Assembly Is A Timing Game
- Building an acquisition-first E&P requires obsessive land assembly and fast execution against competitive pressure.
- The model pays off only while a reliable exit market (buyers or capital) remains open.
Home Run Exit, Not Retirement
- PCOR returned 3.2x in 17 months and Colin enjoyed a life-changing payout in his mid-30s.
- Despite the windfall, his burn and lifestyle meant the check didn't mean 'never work again.'