Freedom First envisions a future where the private sector, driven by a passion for positive impact, aligns energy, agriculture and technology expertise.
We seek to restore the role of corporations as catalysts for positive change, moving beyond bureaucratic hurdles to make a difference in the world.
In emerging markets, particularly in Africa, energy projects suffer from a lack of investment. Despite abundant resources, these regions face a complex challenge: resources are often controlled by vested interests, and green initiatives divert capital away from traditional energy development. This deprivation of capital, coupled with unrealistic energy transitions, leads to continuous aid dependency for millions of people.
Outside factions aim to maintain dominant market shares globally or push unrealistic transitions, stifling investment in developing markets’ energy, agriculture and technology sectors. This dynamic inadvertently supports radicalism, fosters aid dependency, and enriches a select few at the expense of sustainable development. Consequently, there is a cycle of instability, hindered economic growth, and diminished positive impacts of aid initiatives.
Emerging markets with abundant natural resources experience production disruptions from external factors, leading to instability. Despite aid intentions, it often perpetuates a cycle of corruption and instability.
Freedom First intervenes by investing directly in neglected markets, empowering them to rightfully emerge as energy producers, supported by first world technologies and infrastructures.
Direct investment into communities and resources, generating shareholder returns for local producers.
Train and localize the workforce, reducing external support over time.
Partner at the ground level, creating stakeholders at the origin.
Recognizing the historical misuse of energy resources to destabilize nations and perpetuate dependency, Freedom First strives to empower countries and communities to harness their own resources, ensuring economic self-sufficiency.
We reject divisive political agendas and work tirelessly to dismantle the narratives that hinder impoverished nations from developing their energy potential, thereby reducing reliance on external aid.
We acknowledge instability often arises from geopolitical manipulations around oil and gas, food and technology resources. Our approach is rooted in collaboration with host countries, transcending political affiliations, to responsibly develop energy resources for the benefit of the people.
By fostering genuine partnerships and prioritizing the interests of the people, we aim to mitigate the funding of radicalism and contribute to global stability.
As advocates for the United States private sector, we commit to building a diverse team of industry veterans, security experts, and political allies who share our global vision.
Navigating the geopolitical landscape and ensuring stabilization is a key aspect of our energy-driven initiatives.
Freedom First has long been a vision to bridge the gaps in the development of emerging markets, with American ingenuity. With a focus on energy, we aim to harness the experience and lessons learned from the Permian Basin. The rapid growth and technical innovation of this part of Texas is unprecedented and embodies the moral values Freedom First aims to lead globally. Our team is the best of the best in every facet of energy development, all with a shared vision of investing directly into new markets, educating the local workforce and empowering the next generation of private sector leaders.
Ryan Manicom, President/CEO
Our story at Freedom First is rooted in a shared passion for reshaping the narrative of energy production and emerging market development. Leveraging deep experience in the Permian Basin, the world’s most prolific oil basin, where small to midsize companies
have acted as pioneers, leading the way forward. Driven by this vision, Freedom First was founded with the aim of returning resource value to the people. Through strategic investments and comprehensive training, we empower global communities to thrive.
Our story at Freedom First is rooted in a shared passion for reshaping the narrative of energy production and emerging market development. Leveraging deep experience in the Permian Basin, the world’s most prolific oil basin, where small to midsize companies have acted as pioneers, leading the way forward. Driven by this vision, Freedom First was founded with the aim of returning resource value to the people. Through strategic investments and comprehensive training, we empower global communities to thrive.
The Management team and partners at Freedom First bring a wealth of experience across capital markets, marketing, investor relations, global logistics, agriculture, and technology. With a track record of
success, we’ve built, owned, and operated pipelines, managed gas processing capacity, patented energy-related technologies, and led large-scale field development projects both domestically and internationally.
The Management team and partners at Freedom First bring a wealth of experience across capital markets, marketing, investor relations, global logistics, agriculture, and technology. With a track record of success, we’ve built, owned, and operated pipelines, managed gas processing capacity, patented energy-related technologies, and led large-scale field development projects both domestically and internationally.
Ryan, partner with RTB Ventures, oversees diverse business holdings globally. A Texas Tech University graduate, he commenced his career as Director of Business Development at Clockwork Solutions, expanding their asset performance management systems from defense into energy. This led to an opportunity internationally as Director of Business Development for Holloman Corporation, working in Papua New Guinea on the PNG LNG project…
From there he became Director of Operations for Holloman Energy in Myanmar, helping to secure the country’s two largest land concession. Returning to Houston, he became Vice President of Orion Gas. Processors, an affiliation with Holloman Management. While at Orion, he oversaw operations in Iraq where Orion introduced the first ever POP model for flare mitigation and proposed a Texas themed midstream structure to efficiently gather gas, attempting to resolve Iraq’s significant flare volumes. Ryan is an advocate for the private sector being the spearhead into emerging markets and has solidified a reputation of championing US private sector engagement, specifically with a focal point on Texas and the success of the Permian Basin. He believes deeply that the American ingenuity lies within every emerging market and as CEO of Freedom First, will use all of its resources to invest, educate and empower every person and community they touch.
Bryce is a distinguished leader in the energy sector, boasting over three decades of experience. His journey began at Holloman Corporation, where he ascended from Job Superintendent to Executive Vice President & COO. With significant roles at Cisco Centerstream and C&H Laitepo, PNG, Ltd, Bryce has been a Managing Director at the forefront of industry advancements. He served as Director and President of International Operations at Pilot Energy Solutions and…
held pivotal positions, including President & Director of C&H Global Construction and Equipment Leasing and President & CEO at Orion Gas Processors, LLC. Currently, Bryce is a Partner with RTB Ventures, LLC, where his visionary leadership continues to drive innovation and successfully execute ambitious initiatives in the energy sector.
Samantha is a highly accomplished senior executive with over two decades of expertise in finance, investment banking, and marketing. In her current role as the Chief Investment Officer for RTB Ventures, Samantha demonstrates a proven track record of success, shaping and executing global investment strategy…
Her leadership is marked by innovative and purpose-driven approaches, fostering high-performance teams. Samantha’s career includes notable positions such as Chief Marketing Officer for AMI Expeditionary Healthcare and Senior Vice President at U.S. Trust, Bank of America. Her excellence in the financial industry is underscored by being recognized as Washingtonian’s Top Financial Advisor in 2018 and Banker of the Year in 2017 and 2018. Actively engaged in industry associations, Samantha serves on the Board of Trustees for the National Center for Children and Families and holds the position of Board Treasurer for MAFA Alliance, a coalition of energy and energy technology companies committed to implementing methane and flare abatement solutions to reduce emissions from oil and gas operations. Samantha’s vision, leadership, and expertise make her an invaluable asset, instrumental in propelling organizations to leadership positions in their respective industries.
Abdulrof is a visionary entrepreneur and business leader, serving as the owner and General Manager of Al Safi National for Oil and Energy Services. With a relentless dedication to advancing Libya’s oil production industry, Abdulrof works sharply and tirelessly to bring innovation and excellence to the forefront of the sector…
A graduate in Information Technology from Tripoli, Abdulrof has seamlessly transitioned into the world of business management, earning a high reputation for his contributions to the National Oil Corporation (NOC) and its subsidiaries. His commitment to delivering top-tier services and solutions has made him a trusted partner within the Oil, Gas, and Energy community. Abdulrof’s mission is to introduce cutting-edge technologies to Libya, propelling the nation towards greater oil production capacity. Beyond business success, he is deeply committed to nurturing the growth and development of the Libyan youth, fostering a generation of skilled professionals who are passionate about both business and their nation’s vital oil resources. His leadership embodies a relentless pursuit of excellence, innovation, and a profound commitment to the betterment of Libya’s oil industry and its youth.
Robert, the Director of Ranching Operations for Freedom First, is a seasoned entrepreneur and founder of Continental Beef. With roots in a ranching family, Robert’s journey began in 2011 with the establishment of Nantz Cattle Company, navigating challenges like the Texas drought strategically. As the visionary behind Nantz Land…
& Cattle and Boot Heel Management, Robert has excelled in efficient cattle breeds, sustainable ranching practices, and holistic land management. His leadership has been recognized in the ranching and cowboy world. In 2022, Robert co-founded Alaska Carbon Solutions (ACS) and AK-TX Beef Solutions, showcasing his commitment to environmental sustainability and business diversification. ACS focuses on carbon sequestration, while AK-TX Beef Solutions fulfills USDA beef contracts across the U.S. Launched in 2023, Continental Beef is the pinnacle of Robert’s expertise and dedication to sustainable and regenerative ranching. His blend of traditional practices and modern management sets him apart as a leader in the industry.
Phillip, Director of Energy Operations at Freedom First, is a seasoned business and engineering leader renowned for his distinguished career in the Oil and Gas sector. With a global perspective and a data-centric mindset, Phillip’s expertise lies in leading technically complex projects, optimizing business processes, and…
providing strong leadership capabilities. Having advanced from an Associate Technical Professional to a Project Manager at Halliburton, Phillip is celebrated for sound project delivery and effective problem-solving. As a trusted advisor to both customers and senior leadership, he embodies dedication as a leader to his teams. Throughout his career, Phillip has gained global insights and honed skills in project management, business development, technology implementation, vendor management, and performance optimization. His innate leadership competencies enable him to seamlessly work across cultures and verticals, ensuring project success and the achievement of business objectives. providing strong leadership capabilities. Having advanced from an Associate Technical Professional to a Project Manager at Halliburton, Phillip is celebrated for sound project delivery and effective problem-solving. As a trusted advisor to both customers and senior leadership, he embodies dedication as a leader to his teams. Throughout his career, Phillip has gained global insights and honed skills in project management, business development, technology implementation, vendor management, and performance optimization. His innate leadership competencies enable him to seamlessly work across cultures and verticals, ensuring project success and the achievement of business objectives.
Jim Govenlock, Director of Upstream Operations at Freedom First, brings over twenty years of industry expertise to the forefront of energy production. With a rich background cultivated at Chesapeake Energy and Schlumberger, Jim has mastered the intricacies of hydraulic fracturing, drilling, and reservoir engineering…
Throughout his career, Jim has led teams across pivotal regions, including the Marcellus, Barnett Shales, and Permian Basin, consistently achieving top production levels. His innovative strategies, such as slick water fracturing and comprehensive asset optimization, have not only propelled operational efficiencies but also set new industry standards. With a proven track record of success, Jim’s visionary leadership and strategic foresight have positioned him as a trusted advisor within the energy sector. His dedication to excellence and ability to navigate complex challenges make him an invaluable asset to Freedom First and the broader industry landscape.
Geneviève, Director of Investor Relations for Freedom First, has over 20 years of professional experience, currently serving as the Director of Marketing and Investor Relations at RTB Ventures. At RTB Ventures, she continues to drive forward-thinking investor relations initiatives, positioning herself as a central figure in the…
company’s continued growth and success. Geneviève exemplifies a seasoned professional dedicated to excellence in marketing strategy and global impact. With strategic foresight and visionary leadership, Geneviève significantly influences the company’s trajectory. Her distinguished journey includes a successful tenure as Director of Marketing at AMI Global Medical Assistance, where she enhanced global market visibility through innovative strategies. Geneviève’s expertise extends to co-founding a marketing firm, delivering premium solutions to a global clientele and showcasing her ability to blend creative innovation with strategic insight. Her career is characterized by impactful roles, demonstrating a deep understanding of market dynamics and effective stakeholder engagement.
Erik is a highly accomplished entrepreneur, philanthropist, Navy SEAL veteran, and private equity investor with a global footprint. Leading the Frontier Resource Group, he focuses on transformative natural resource projects in emerging markets. Notably, Erik founded and sold Blackwater USA and Presidential Airways before establishing his current ventures. His commitment to sustainable development is evident through Freedom First Energy’s core values. Beyond his professional…
achievements, Erik Prince is dedicated to supporting refugees, humanitarian relief, and economic development. Erik embodies a multifaceted approach to principled leadership and global impact.
A visionary entrepreneur, Ted co-founded Light Tower Rentals, Inc. alongside John Avary in 1994. Together, they transformed LTR into a nationally recognized company known for top-tier equipment and unparalleled service. In 2008, their journey took a new turn when they welcomed Clairevest as a partner, enabling LTR’s remarkable growth and reputation. In August 2016, LTR embarked on a new chapter under Clearlake Capital Group’s ownership. The path led to a merger with Globe…
Energy in February, forming GlobeLTR Energy, later renamed Gravity Oilfield Services. Ted transitioned from CEO to Vice Chairman of the board, maintaining an active presence while allowing him to pursue other institutional investment opportunities within the sector. His diverse experience also includes roles such as Managing Partner at Turner Bit Service, and as the Owner/Founder of Chief Transports, Inc. Ted continues to explore new ventures as an Owner and Partner while contributing as Vice Chairman of the Board at Gravity Oilfield. His journey is marked by a relentless drive for success and innovation.
Colby brings over two decades of exceptional leadership experience in the oil and gas industry. His tenure at Halliburton Energy Services has been marked by a series of high-impact roles, including Regional Vice President for the Asia Pacific Region and executive positions in North Africa and the Middle East. Colby’s strategic acumen is further evidenced by his role in the successful acquisition of E3 Company by the Gladstone (NYSE: GAIN) and Xyresic private equity firms…
where he continues to lead as President and CEO. An advocate for diversity and young professional development, Colby’s leadership is synonymous with integrity and efficacy. His dedication to fostering a culture of safety and achievement is reflective of his advisory role at Freedom First. Additionally, Colby contributes his expertise to the Oklahoma National Guard Museum Board of Directors and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from Oklahoma State University, supplemented by studies in Marketing.
Richard, an experienced leader, served as CEO of Coastline Exploration since its 2018 inception, overseeing operations in offshore oil and gas exploration in Somalia. Prior to this, he held roles, including Chief Financial Officer, at Eurasia Drilling Company Limited (LSE) from July 2008 to July 2019. His expertise extends from his tenure as President and CEO of Prime Natural Resources, Inc., and directorship at Transocean Ltd. (NYSE) and Boots and Coots, Inc. (NASDAQ)…
Richard currently serves as a non-executive director of Genesis Digital Assets Limited, the second-largest Bitcoin mining company globally. He was also a non-executive director of Alussa Energy (NYSE) from 2019 to 2020, where he chaired the audit committee. Additionally, he chaired the board of Vanguard Natural Resources LLC (NASDAQ) from 2007 to 2018 and served as a non-executive director of Gulf Marine Services Plc (LSE) from 2014 to 2019. A certified public accountant, Richard holds a B.S. magna cum laude in business from the University of Colorado and a master’s degree in taxation from the University of Denver. He is also a member of the Society of Exploration Geophysicists.
