251: From Noise to Knowledge – Lessons in Geophysics and Innovation w/ Joe Dellinger

Seismic Soundoff

"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 [email protected].