Shows
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessQ2 Earnings Insights: Leading Through Chemical Industry Transformation - Ep. 229Economic uncertainty, supply chain complexity, and shifting global demand are shaping the chemical industry’s trajectory as businesses wrap up Q2 2025. Host Victoria Meyer unpacks the mixed earnings results from major chemical players and highlights what leaders need to focus on for the remainder of 2025 and into 2026. From confronting persistent weak demand and managing operational excellence, to navigating regionalization, cost discipline, and supply chain resilience—Victoria breaks down the core industry trends and reveals how specialties are outperforming commodities in today’s market landscape. Victoria also shares actionable insights for leaders: prioritize talent, double down on communi...
2025-08-1926 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessFostering Innovation: Practical Takeaways for Business Leaders in Mature Industries - Ep. 225At the midpoint of 2025, the chemical industry is navigating a turbulent landscape marked by geopolitical conflicts, trade uncertainties, and shifting supply-demand dynamics. Host Victoria Meyer examines how leaders are driving innovation during times of economic uncertainty, sharing recent insights from established and emerging companies including Hexion, Lummus Technology, Pilot Chemical, Lanzatech, and others. She explores how companies can break out of the “we’ve always done it this way” mindset, overcome barriers to change, and embrace both incremental and disruptive innovation. Victoria highlights practical strategies for fostering an innovation mindset—ranging from creating psychological safety for risk-taking to encour...
2025-07-2221 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessMid-Year Reset: Smart Moves For Leaders In Uncertain Times - Ep. 216Uncertainty is the new normal for the chemical industry, but leaders still need to make smart decisions that drive business forward. Victoria Meyer tackles the critical actions leaders should be taking at the midyear point of 2025, offering strategic advice for operating in volatile markets, maintaining resilient supply chains, and effectively communicating through change. With insights from industry leaders, she highlights the importance of scenario planning, mindful diversification, and strategic cash management while emphasizing the value of strong relationships across the business ecosystem. Victoria also spotlights the upcoming The Chemical Summit in Houston, which centers on leadership t...
2025-05-2025 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessEssential Career Advice for New Graduates - Ep. 214Starting your career is more than landing that first job—it’s about building a foundation for lifelong growth and opportunity. With graduation season in full swing, Victoria Meyer shares her most impactful career advice for new graduates in and beyond the chemical industry, drawing on insights from industry leaders and her own journey. From embracing the career marathon to building a strong network or “work posse,” finding your expertise, and knowing when to speak up, Victoria offers practical tips that every professional can use—whether you’re just starting out or looking to advance your career. Financial wis...
2025-05-0617 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessCelebrating 4 Years of The Chemical Show: Victoria Meyer Shares Her Journey, Industry Insights, and What's Next - Ep. 210Celebrating four years of chemical insights, Victoria Meyer takes a unique look back at what started as an ambitious idea and has now transformed into the number one business podcast in the chemical industry. Reflecting on the journey from 2021 to 2025, Victoria shares her personal and professional growth, marking pivotal shifts that have shaped both her career and the wider chemical landscape. From energy policies to digital transformation, Victoria discusses the ever-evolving dynamics of the industry and her mission to foster meaningful connections and insights through The Chemical Show. This special anniversary episode offers listeners an engaging reintroduction t...
2025-04-0823 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessTop Themes & Innovations from ACI 2025 - Ep. 201Explore the intersection of performance and sustainability in the cleaning industry, as Victoria Meyer delves into the insights and innovations shared at the 2025 American Cleaning Institute (ACI) annual meeting. Joined by industry experts Jim Griffin from SCT and Ned Weintraub from Noble AI, this episode emphasizes the cautious optimism prevailing in the industry, driven by a renewed focus on smarter supply chains and the practical application of sustainability. Discover how the industry is navigating the decade of supply chain challenges and shifting trends towards consumer value-driven sustainability with a "small s." Key takeaways from the convention e...
2025-02-1123 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessEnhancing Product Safety and Innovation: Insights from Greg Adamson of Givaudan - Ep 195Discover how microscopic quantities of ingredients can make a monumental difference in everyday products. Victoria Meyer talks with Greg Adamson, Senior VP at Givaudan, about the world of fragrances and flavors. Greg brings insights from his journey as a toxicologist, touching on his experiences in both biotech and the household and consumer products industry. They dive into Givaudan’s crucial role in creating tastes and scents that are ever-present in our daily lives, and the complex regulations that ensure their safety and efficacy. Greg and Victoria explore the intricate dance between innovation and regulation. From influencing glo...
2024-12-3116 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk Business2024 Wrapped: Highlights from The Chemical Show - Ep. 194Wrap up the year with the best of The Chemical Show! Host Victoria Meyer reflects on 2024 by spotlighting the top five episodes, sharing fun facts about the global audience, and revealing the intriguing listening habits of chemical enthusiasts. From the impact of global markets and sustainability advancements to the significance of strategic timing and audience engagement, this episode offers a comprehensive review of the podcast's most compelling moments and influential guests. Uncover insights from industry leaders like John Richardson, Eric Appelman, and Garab Chakrabarti, while also exploring fascinating data about what makes The Chemical Show listeners unique. W...
2024-12-2430 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessFive Key Themes for Household & Commercial Products in 2025 - Ep 193Uncover the five key themes shaping the household and commercial products landscapes for 2025 as Victoria Meyer delves into insights from the HCPA annual meeting in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. For professionals in the chemical industry, staying informed about regulatory changes, state-level initiatives, and sustainability efforts is crucial. Victoria explores critical topics such as EPA regulations, state legislation alignment, extended producer responsibility, and the drive towards greener products. State-level regulation shifts are creating complex challenges, and the introduction of new administrations may have significant impacts on policies and business practices. Featuring clips from conversations with industry experts like S...
2024-12-1728 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessCan Profitability and Sustainability Coexist? Industry Trend #7 - Ep 181Sustainability is a key trend influencing all industries. Yet, can Profitability and Sustainability Coexist??? In this episode of The Chemical Show, host Victoria Meyer discusses the significant trend of sustainability in the chemical industry. She elaborates on the different facets of sustainability including clean air, water usage reduction, circularity, green hydrogen, green methanol, biotechnology, and sustainable supply chains. Victoria also addresses the hurdles faced by the industry such as regulatory approvals, affordability, consumer behavior, and investor patience.Finally, we pose the critical question of whether sustainability and profitability can coexist, citing examples from variou...
2024-09-2418 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk Business6 Trends Affecting Chemical Industry in 2024 and 2025 - Ep 180Explore the dynamic landscape of the chemical industry as host Victoria Meyer delves into six key trends that will shape 2024 and 2025. From ever-changing supply chain dynamics and shifting customer engagement mechanisms to the impacts of global economics and geopolitics, Victoria provides an insightful analysis of the factors driving the industry forward. This episode offers a deep dive into the role of digitization and AI, ongoing labor challenges, and how innovation is being influenced and hampered by regulation. With valuable insights into how industry leaders can navigate these trends, this episode is a must-listen for chemical professionals l...
2024-09-1718 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessHow Collaboration, Customers, and Community Contribute to Sustainability - Ep. 178Ep 178 Show Notes - How Collaboration, Customers, and Community Contribute to Sustainability Uncover the impactful stories behind the winners of American Chemistry Council’s 2024 Sustainability Leadership Awards, as host Victoria Meyer dives into projects from Celanese, PPG, and DuPont. Kevin Norfleet from Celanese shares insights on their Carbon Capture and Utilization Project, a breakthrough in emissions reduction that won them the Circularity Award. Meanwhile, Garry Grant from PPG discusses their climate-friendly innovations in automotive coatings, a project that earned the Climate Award. Mary Reinthal from DuPont highlights their Clear Into the Future grant program, showcasing how...
2024-09-0329 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessDriving Innovation in Recycling: Inside ACC's Sustainability Awards with Cyclyx and EFC Gases - Ep 177Discover how necessity is driving sustainable innovation in the chemical industry with host Victoria Meyer and guests Robert Dishman of Cyclx and Matt Adams of EFC Gases & Advanced Materials, winners of American Chemistry Council’s 2024 Sustainability Leadership Awards. Learn about Cyclyx’s pioneering partnership with industry giants like ExxonMobil and the opening of the world’s first chemical composition analysis centers (CCCs) to revolutionize recycling efforts. Robert Dishman delves into Cyclyx's mission to increase plastic collection and eliminate landfill-bound plastics, while also encouraging municipal and consumer engagement. Meanwhile, Matt Adams introduces EFC Gases’ award-winn...
2024-08-2730 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessMastering the Art of Resilience: Turning Setbacks Into Success - Ep 175Exploring the crucial role of resilience in both personal and professional contexts, host Victoria Meyer delves into how businesses and individuals can adapt, recover, and ultimately thrive amid unexpected challenges. Victoria breaks down the concept of resilience, distinguishing it from business continuity planning and emphasizing its emotional and adaptive components. She shares practical tips on building resilience, such as embracing mistakes, fostering accountability, and planning responses to potential setbacks. Tune in to gain insights on nurturing resilience within yourself and your team as you navigate the unpredictable landscape of today's business world.
2024-08-1322 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessBuilding a 100-Year Company: Kris Maynard of Essential Ingredients - Ep 174Discover how hiring for character and training for skills can cultivate a thriving company culture with Kris Maynard, executive chairman of Essential Ingredients. Kris joins host Victoria Meyer on The Chemical Show this week to share insights on the importance of long-term sustainability, reflecting on his company’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming an employee-owned business. Kris discusses the transformative power of trusting relationships, transparent communication, and the strategic advantages of remaining privately owned. Additionally, Victoria and Kris explore the concept of a 100-year company, drawing parallels with historical craftsmanship in cathedrals, and discuss how Essential Ing...
2024-08-0639 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessHow Pricing and Behavioral Economics Impacts Business with Melina Palmer - Ep 171Behavioral economics is revolutionizing the business world with Melina Palmer, CEO of The Brainy Business, and Victoria Meyer on The Chemical Show®. Melina delves into the importance of social proof in influencing consumer decisions, showcasing how psychological principles can dramatically shape pricing strategies. Highlighting examples from luxury goods like the Birkin bag to New York City's $214 grilled cheese sandwich, she explains how scarcity, identity, and well-framed messaging can alter purchasing behavior irrespective of functionality.Melina will be a speaker at The Chemical Summit on October 8-9, 2024 in Spring, Texas. For details and tickets, visit thechemicalsummit.com....
2024-07-1648 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessFuture of Green Methanol: Challenges and Opportunities with Eric Bober - Ep 170Discover why methanol has become the number one alternative fuel for ships ordered in 2023 and how the race for environmentally improved methanol is shaping the future of the chemical industry. Eric Bober, Senior VP at NexantECA, joins host Victoria Meyer on The Chemical Show® to dive into the evolution of green chemicals, the urgent demand for sustainable methanol as marine fuel, and the gap between innovation and infrastructure. Victoria and Eric explore the groundbreaking advancements and the hurdles companies face in project development and market segmentation, all while highlighting the critical role of consortiums and government in...
2024-07-0222 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessDecarbonizing the Chemical Industry with Solugen CEO Gaurab Chakrabarti - Ep 169Wondering how a unicorn startup in the chemical industry is changing the business of chemicals? Join host Victoria Meyer as she speaks with Gaurab Chakrabarti, co-founder and CEO of Solugen, to explore innovative approaches that challenge the traditional paradigms of bigger, more efficient assets. Their conversation delves into alternative solutions for reducing carbon intensity, emphasizing the importance of local supply chains and circular feedstocks.Gaurab Chakrabarti is a force in the chemical industry, renowned for his unique journey from aspiring medical doctor to pioneering entrepreneur. A Forbes 30 under 30 honoree, Gaurab's passion for studying pancreatic cancer led...
2024-06-2543 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessThe Importance of Long-Lasting Business Relationships with Frank Fisher - Ep 169How essential are strong business relationships and how can geopolitical tensions shape chemical industry business strategies? Host Victoria Meyer sits down with Franklin Fisher, founder and CEO of South Carolina Chemical, and a seasoned expert in international sourcing, contract manufacturing, and supply chain management this week on The Chemical Show®.Frank shares his insights on the pressing issues affecting the chemical industry today, from the impact of geopolitical tensions on global supply chains to the practical and ethical considerations of reshoring operations. The conversation also navigates through his career journey, spotlighting the role of empathy in l...
2024-06-1832 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessCarbon Capture and Customer Value with Kevin Norfleet of CelaneseEp 167 Show Notes - Carbon Capture and Sustainability with Kevin Norfleet of CelaneseGet an insider's view of sustainability in the chemical industry with Kevin Norfleet, Global Sustainability Director at Celanese, as he joins Victoria Meyer on The Chemical Show®. Kevin shares his journey from chemical engineering to spearheading sustainability efforts at Celanese, including the company's innovative initiatives like the large-scale carbon capture and utilization project for methanol production in Texas. Victoria and Kevin delve into the evolving demands for sustainable products, discussing which market segments are leading the charge and how companies ca...
2024-06-1110 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessAchieving Success in Chemicals: Sustainability and Leadership with Bonnie Tully of Evonik - Ep. 165Ep 165 Show Notes - Achieving Success in Chemicals: Sustainability and Leadership with Bonnie Tully of EvonikBonnie Tully, North American President of Evonik, joins host Victoria Meyer to tackle Responsible Care®, the ambitious strides in sustainability, and the transformative shifts in industry culture. Bonnie shares compelling insights and actionable strategies this week on The Chemical Show. This episode is a masterclass in leadership, sustainability, and making big impacts through small steps, all while navigating the ever-evolving demands of the chemical industry. Don't miss Bonnie's take on fostering an innovative culture and her empowering ad...
2024-05-2821 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessSustainability Starts with Chemistry with ACC CEO Chris Jahn - Ep 163Chris Jahn, President and CEO of the American Chemistry Council, discusses what propels the chemical industry forward amid global challenges. From regulatory challenges to sustainability initiatives and the characteristics that define impactful leadership, this episode of The Chemical Show spans several pressing topics that are top-of-mind for every business leader today.Host Victoria Meyer talks with Chris at the ACC's Responsible Care and Sustainability Conference where Chris elaborates on the importance of sustainability, regulatory challenges, and the significance of the upcoming UN Plastics Treaty negotiations. Victoria and Chris also discuss the role of AI and data analytics...
2024-05-1427 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessPowerful Business Storytelling: 5 Tactics to Make Your Case [Refreshed Episode!]"If you want your target audience to remember your message the next day, tell a story. "As you're heading to industry events over the next couple week's: NYSCC Suppliers' Day, American Coatings Show, NPE The Plastics Show, consider the power of storytelling.Exploring the essential elements of business storytelling, host Victoria Meyer demonstrates that it's about more than recounting events—it's about strategically crafting and managing the narrative to connect emotionally with the audience and achieve desired business outcomes. This week on The Chemical Show, Victoria details two main types of stories com...
2024-04-3018 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessNavigating Uncertainty in Global Chemical Markets with Commercial Discipline - Ep 160In today's challenging business landscape, especially within the volatile chemical industry, resilience is key. Host Victoria Meyer outlines three vital strategies in navigating chemical market uncertainty this week on The Chemical Show: commercial discipline, customer centricity, and market diversification. Victoria emphasizes the importance of commercial discipline, advocating for strategic profitability alignment and efficiency enhancement through automation. Customer centricity is highlighted as a cornerstone for resilience, focusing on deepening connections with valuable customers to weather market fluctuations. Victoria discusses market diversification as a proactive strategy, balancing portfolios to shield against economic tremors and meet sustainability goals.L...
2024-04-2333 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessSuccession Planning and Attracting Talent in 2024 with Jeff Bennett of Boaz Partners - Ep 159Navigating the talent landscape of the chemical industry can be as complex and nuanced as the industry itself. This week, Victoria Meyer is joined by Jeff Bennett from Boaz Partners, a recruiter specializing in senior leadership placements within multiple sectors such as fragrances, cosmetics, and plastics. Victoria and Jeff discuss the strategies for succession planning, the art of retaining top talent, and the ever-evolving market challenges and opportunities. Additionally, Victoria and Jeff also address the changing norms of workplace environments, the impact of remote work on company culture, and the "gray tsunami"—an exodus of senior exp...
2024-04-1626 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessKey Themes from AFPM IPC 2024 - Ep 158Navigating through the maze of the chemical industry's future, Victoria Meyer explores the biggest industry event of the year thus far: AFPM IPC 2024.With the highest attendance since pre-COVID times, robust discussions, and critical networking, Victoria unpacks the cautious optimism permeating the sector, underlining a year that started strong despite evident challenges. She dives into the pressing themes identified at the conference: the focused lens on supply chain complexities post unexpected incidents, the drive for global policy harmonization to foster balanced markets, and the imperative of ethical leadership influencing industry directions.The Chemical Show delves...
2024-04-0916 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessDecarbonization, Supply Chains, & Future Growth: Themes from WPC 2024 - Ep 157Curious about the major strategic issues facing all aspects of the petrochemical industry? Learn more about what leading global experts and industry executives are discussing in terms of critical issues impacting the chemical market from the 2024 World Petrochemical Conference with host Victoria Meyer. With over 1500 attendees from 53 countries, representing 550 companies, conference topics ranged from decarbonization, to supply chain resilience, to the impact of geopolitical challenges on the shipping industry.Victoria is joined by industry experts Tony Potter and Rahul Kapoor from S&P Global on this week’s episode of The Chemical Show to highlight the ma...
2024-04-0231 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessBuilding Alignment to Tackle the Climate Challenge with Karin Krchnak of ACC - Ep 156Navigating the complexities of sustainability in the chemical industry requires partnerships, open communication, patience, and a positive, collective focus. Karin Krchnak, an environmental lawyer by training and the Managing Director of Sustainability at the American Chemistry Council (ACC) joins host Victoria Meyer to talk about the strides being made towards a greener future and the synergy between climate goals and water stewardship. Victoria and Karin discuss the innovations shaping the chemical industry, the rise of sustainability roles, and share personal tales of mentorship and career evolution.Learn more about the following this week:
2024-03-2642 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessAccelerating Chemical Development and Navigating Business Challenges with Ned Weintraub of NobleAI - Ep 154Discover how artificial intelligence is revolutionizing the chemical industry as Ned Weintraub, Chief Revenue Officer at NobleAI, joins host Victoria Meyer on The Chemical Show to delve into the unique challenges and transformative opportunities AI presents. NobleAI’s commitment to harnessing AI for problem-solving and data-driven innovation could be the key to unlocking new levels of productivity and sustainability in the field. Victoria and Ned explore the pivotal role of science-based AI in accelerating product development, tackling the complex landscape of data management, and the critical importance of data privacy within this high-stakes domain. This episode offers inv...
2024-03-1234 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessBuilding a Culture of Success for Women in Chemicals - Ep 153Exploring strategies that foster a culture of success for women in the chemical industry, host Victoria Meyer shares insights from previous guests on The Chemical Show. Victoria explores women’s perspectives on business leadership and culture in the chemical industry. In this episode, Victoria features discussions on practical strategies for building diversity, such as focusing on inclusion, establishing early connections with universities, and creating mentorship programs. Emphasizing the importance of recognizing and leveraging the unique skills of individuals, Victoria shares more about how to promote empathy in the innovation process, and create a workplace cul...
2024-03-0536 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessRed Sea Shipping Issues and Resolutions with Farid Tahvildari of NUCO Logistics - Ep 152Navigating the tumultuous waters of shipping logistics in the Red Sea and Panama Canal has never been more critical for the chemical industry. Join host Victoria Meyer as she interviews Farid Tahvildari, Managing Director at NUCO Logistics, who shares his wealth of experience and insights into the impact of current events on global shipping. From the challenges of increased shipping times due to geopolitical tensions in the Red Sea to the decreased transit availability through the Panama Canal, Farid provides valuable recommendations for businesses, highlighting the importance of adaptability and strategic planning. With rising imports and t...
2024-02-2726 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessExploring Digital Strategies and Risks for Chemicals with Pam Walker of UL Solutions - Ep 151Explore the dynamic landscape of digital transformation in the chemical industry with Pam Walker, the Director and General Manager of Data Intelligence, and Insights at UL Solutions, as she shares insights and strategies with host Victoria Meyer on The Chemical Show. In this episode, Pam discusses the evolution of digital solutions in the chemical industry, drawing from her 20 years of experience and leadership in the field. From the challenges of digitization to the pivotal role of data quality and trusted partners in driving successful digital strategies, Pam offers valuable insights to help companies navigate the complexities of embracing digital...
2024-02-2030 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessACI 2024 Recap: Unveiling Key Themes and Trends in the Cleaning Products Industry - Ep 150Curious about the latest developments and trends in the surfactants and cleaning industry? Learn more about the key themes discussed at the 2024 American Cleaning Institute (ACI) annual meeting and understand their implications for your business with host Victoria Meyer. With over 1300 attendees from the cleaning industry, the event emphasized the importance of driving innovation and transformation in the industry. Victoria dives into the impact of supply chain, the integration of AI, the shift towards market-centric business transformation, the continuation of green initiatives, and the challenges posed by tightening regulations.This week’s episode of The Chemical Sh...
2024-02-1317 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessCatalysts, Sustainability and Careers with Paul Whittleston of Ecovyst - Ep 149Navigating the momentum of sustainable technology in the chemical industry, Paul Whittleston, President of Advanced Materials and Catalysts at Ecovyst, joins host Victoria Meyer on The Chemical Show to explore the company's journey in sustainability, international industry trends, and lessons in career development. Sharing insights from a significant career in the chemicals industry, Paul delves into career progression, the company's rebrand, and its commitment to sustainability. With a focus on the emergence of bio-based and renewable technologies, Victoria and Paul discuss challenges in recycling plastic waste, innovative catalyst technologies, and the significance of embracing change and s...
2024-02-0641 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessExploring Sustainable Technologies and Green Chemicals with Eric Bober of NexantECA - Ep 148Driven by both consumer demand and government policies, the shift towards sustainability in the chemical industry is creating a landscape ripe for innovation and growth. Eric Bober, VP at NexantECA joins host Victoria Meyer on The Chemical Show this week to explore the world of sustainable chemicals, the evolution of the chemical industry, the challenges and opportunities of sustainable technologies, and the global shift towards eco-friendly products. Victoria and Eric discuss the concept of "colorful technologies," such as green and blue products, and their viability in the market. With a focus on sustainability, they examined t...
2024-01-3028 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk Business2024 Chemical Market Outlook with Steve Lewandowski of Chemical Market Analytics by OPISRecorded from a livestream of The Chemical Show, host Victoria Meyer interviews Steve Lewandowski, VP of Olefins for Chemical Market Analytics by OPIS, a Dow Jones Company. Victoria and Steve discuss the complex outlook for the 2024 chemical market, exploring challenges and strategies present in the petrochemical industry. The discussion reflects on the uncertainties of the current economic and geopolitical climate and its significant impact on regional and global chemical markets. Steve highlights the oversupply in the industry, regional strategies for export and domestic growth, and the complexities involved in managing market conditions amidst shifting economic challenges. T...
2024-01-2330 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk Business5 Ways to Start Strategically in 2024 in Flat & Challenging Markets - Ep 146Host Victoria Meyer takes on the challenge of strategizing for a potentially flat and challenging year in the chemical industry in 2024. Sharing five strategic ways for businesses to kick-start their year and position themselves for long-term success, Victoria emphasizes the importance of balancing short-term needs with long-term investments, leveraging global and regional strengths, harnessing sustainability, assessing wins and losses, and building partnerships. The episode offers valuable insights for businesses to help think critically about their future, make strategic investments, and take proactive steps to navigate the uncertainties of the market. Is your business l...
2024-01-1616 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessAlberta's Industrial Heartland's Competitive Edge in Petrochemicals with Mark Plamondon - Ep 145Discover leading indicators for investment in Alberta’s Industrial Heartland and its growth constituents as Mark Plamondon, Alberta's Industrial Heartland Association’s Executive Director and host Victoria Meyer discuss the shift towards low carbon energy products and the region's natural competitive advantage.Tune in to gain insights into talent development, infrastructure support, and the region's potential to become a global destination for capital. Don't miss this insightful conversation between Victoria and Mark on The Chemical Show and learn more about the following:Introducing Alberta's Industrial Heartland AssociationThe Significance of Dow's Path2Zero...
2024-01-0936 minThe Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessPetrochemicals in 2024: Capacity Overbuild and Codependent Markets with John Richardson of ICIS - Ep. 144What factors are driving petrochemical markets today? Join this conversation between Victoria Meyer and industry-expert John Richardson of ICIS as they discuss the trends and influences on the Asian and global petrochemical markets. Including:Excess capacity due to overbuilt olefins and polyolefins assetsGlobal co-dependence on China for petrochemical consumption and demand growthChina's shift to "mature" growth of 1-3% p.a. from "fast growth" 6-8% p.a.How leaders are handling economic and market challengesDownload John's latest analysis on petrochemical markets here. Killer Quote: "2024 and beyond will be a roller coaster ride for the industry, wit...
2024-01-0233 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessBest of 2023: The Chemical Show Wrapped and ReplayedYou've heard of Spotify Wrapped and Apple Replay??? In this final 2023 episode of The Chemical Show, host Victoria Meyer presents our own version of Wrapped and Replayed.... with a best-of anthology, diving into the show's stats and analytics to highlight the most impactful episodes and topics. From the most downloaded episode featuring Michael Graff, CEO of AirLiquide Americas, to the most shared episode discussing China's aging demographics and its impact on the chemical industry, Victoria reviews the year's highlights and teases upcoming content, including a The Chemical Show LIVE event featuring Steve Lewandowski of Chemical Market Analytics. ***Re...
2023-12-2620 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessNavigating Sales, Leadership, & B2B Relationships in a Post-Covid World With George Koehnke - Ep. 142From embracing change in one's career to the impact of COVID on buyer-seller relationships, the B2B sales landscape is facing a new set of challenges and opportunities. George Koehnke, President of Ascend Commercial Solutions joins host Victoria Meyer to explore the evolving dynamics of business relationships, including the shift towards customer-centricity and the value of coaching in sales leadership.As the chemical industry continuously adapts to market dynamics, Victoria and George discuss the importance of customer centricity in B2B relationships as well as the need to align company scorecards with customer scorecards and build j...
2023-12-1933 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessScaling Chemical Innovation: From Laboratory to Industrial Scale with Joel Shertok - Ep 141Let us know how we're doing and help us plan for 2024. Please complete our listener survey here. With 50+ years scaling chemical processes, Joel Shertok, President of Process Industries Consultants has spearheaded numerous projects in innovation and development consulting, bringing a unique perspective to the forefront. Joel joins host Victoria Meyer this week on The Chemical Show to share his valuable insights into the shifting trends in chemical education, industry research, and the challenges faced by startups in scaling chemical innovations.From the evolving educational landscape to the challenges faced by startup companies in commercializing th...
2023-12-1234 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessMastering Product Data in Digital Transformation for the Chemical Industry with Ali Amin-Javaheri of Knowde - Ep 140There's a significant evolution in consumer behavior and chemical industry priorities. Digitizing complex chemical data from unstructured documents to provide a more accessible online format raises an intriguing question - how can we leverage technology to reshape customer engagement and the overall landscape of customer interactions within the chemical industry? Exploring these challenges and opportunities in digitizing complex chemical data for customer understanding and engagement, host Victoria Meyer welcomes Ali Amin-Javaheri, co-founder and CEO of Knowde, for an insightful discussion on the digital transformation of the chemical industry. Victoria and Ali delve into the intersection of...
2023-12-0533 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessRevolutionizing Crop Protection Chemistries with Tom Meade of Enko Chem - Ep 139In collaboration with industry giants and support from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Enko Chem is revolutionizing the agricultural industry by accelerating the development of safer and more effective herbicides, disease protection, insect control, and yield enhancement solutions. Tom Meade, Chief Science Officer at Enko Chem joins host Victoria Meyer on The Chemical Show to share insights on their target-based discovery platform, the importance of data in their research, and the challenges and advantages of integrating DNA and chemistry.Killer Quote: "In order to revolutionize crop protection chemistries, we n...
2023-11-2833 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessCash Management: Insights from 3rd Quarter 2023 Chemical Industry Earnings Reports - Ep 138Ep 138 Show NotesWeak demand, weak earnings, and a weak outlook were the resounding themes across the chemical companies' earnings reports in the third quarter, 2023. Inventory de-stocking and lower prices have continued to impact the industry, leading to challenging market conditions.In this episode of The Chemical Show, host Victoria Meyer reflects on the third quarter 2023 earnings reports in the chemical industry. She discusses the challenges faced by companies, such as weak demand, lower earnings, and inventory de-stocking, as well as the actions they are taking to respond to...
2023-11-2121 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessExploring PTFE-Free Solutions in Printing Inks: Perspectives from Ray Gonzales of Clariant and George Fuchs of NAPIM Ep 137The printing inks industry is undergoing a significant transformation, with a growing focus on environmental sustainability and regulatory compliance. In this Episode of The Chemical Show, Host Victoria Meyer welcomes Ray Gonzales, Global Head of Marketing and Business Development for Clariant and George Fuchs, Director of Regulatory Affairs for National Association of Printing Ink Manufacturers, otherwise known as NAPIM to discuss these topics and more. Discover how Clariant and NAPIM are navigating the changing regulations in the printing inks market and exploring alternative solutions and the quest for transparency. Victoria, George, and Ray discuss t...
2023-11-1434 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessInsights from Day 2 of The Chemical Summit 2023 - Economics, Supply Chain, Digitization, Customer Value - Ep 136Discover key insights and discussions on topics such as global economics, supply chain, digitization, and customer value. Sharing insights from Day 2 of The Chemical Summit 2023, Victoria Meyer dives into topics that matter. We explore the expectation of a mild recession and its impact on different industries within the chemical sector, the long-term labor shortage and its resolution through immigration and automation, the critical role of data in business transformation, and the importance of upskilling existing talent. Some key points in today's episode:1. Understand the projected economic landscape and how it may impact the chemical industry.2. G...
2023-11-0719 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessHighlights from Day 1 of The Chemical Summit 2023 - Ep 135Our inaugural conference, The Chemical Summit occurred October 24th - 25th, 2023 in The Woodlands, Texas. In this special edition of The Chemical Show, host Victoria Meyer shares highlights from the first day of the Summit which focused on thought leadership, building connections, and gaining insights in the chemical industry. Exploring the themes of transformation, sustainability, and ESG, speakers emphasized the need for personal and business transformation, the challenges of achieving sustainability goals, and the importance of continuous improvement in creating value. Join Victoria as she shares insights from industry leaders and encourages listeners to t...
2023-10-3117 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessThe Housing Industry's Influence on Jobs in Chemical Sector with Adam Krueger of Sun Recruiting -Ep134The housing market plays a crucial role in career moves. As it becomes more expensive to find affordable housing, employees are less likely to take on job changes or accept nominal raises. Companies are realizing the need to address this issue and its impact on talent retention.In this episode of The Chemical Show, we delve into the fascinating intersection between the chemical industry employment and housing costs. Join host Victoria Meyer as she interviews Adam Krueger, Vice President of Sun Recruiting, who provides invaluable insights and analysis. Discover how changes in the housing...
2023-10-2437 minThe Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessEnhancing Product Safety with The Bitter Gal Kristin Cordz of Market Actives - Ep 133In a world where visual appeal of consumer products is critical, it's important for brands to prioritize product safety and ensure consumers of all ages understand these products are for using NOT consuming! Kristin Cordz, Vice President of Business Development for Market Actives, shares more about her work with Bitrex, focusing on making products taste aversive (bad!!) to prevent the accidental ingestion of harmful substances, including household items like dish tablets, batteries and more. Companies use Bitrex to add an extra layer of safety to their products and to build trust with consumers.In...
2023-10-1737 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessDriving Innovation and Customer Value in Energy and Chemicals with Chad Hall of Integrity BioChem - Ep 132Delving into the challenges and opportunities in the chemical industry, the importance of building strong relationships and value propositions, and the impact of sustainability on business decision-making, Chad Hall, Vice President of Energy at Integrity BioChem, discusses insights into coaching, leadership, and navigating the ever-changing landscape of the chemical industry with host Victoria Meyer. In this episode of The Chemical Show, Victoria and Chad discuss the concept of coaching and its application in the business world. Chad shares his perspective on how coaching can be effective regardless of team or company size. According to C...
2023-10-1046 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessBuilding Connection and Community at The Chemical Summit - Ep 131Our inaugural conference, The Chemical Summit, is happening October 24-25 in The Woodlands, Texas. Our exciting agenda features many guests from The Chemical Show podcast.Victoria Meyer shares more about connection and what to expect at The Chemical Summit, including: The importance of connection and communityHow business connections provide context and insightsFostering connection and community at The Chemical SummitRelaunching The Chemical Community as an online platformLearn more and register for The Chemical Summit at www.thechemicalsummit.com***Don’t miss an episode: Sub...
2023-10-0505 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessFrom Carbon Emissions to Valuable Raw Material with Keith Wiggins of Econic Technologies - Ep 130Have you ever wondered how companies are repurposing carbon dioxide emissions and turning them into valuable raw materials? In this episode of The Chemical Show, we dive into the world of carbon capture and utilization with our guest, Keith Wiggins, CEO of Econic Technologies. Econic is a company focused on repurposing carbon dioxide emissions into valuable carbon-based raw materials. In this episode of The Chemical Show, host Victoria Meyer and Keith discuss the different brackets of technologies for repurposing CO2 and the challenges they have faced in terms of stability and cost. He highlights t...
2023-10-0344 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessBuilding Insights through Informal Benchmarking at The Chemical Summit - Ep 129Our inaugural conference, The Chemical Summit is happening October 24-25 in The Woodlands, Texas. Our exciting agenda features many guests from The Chemical Show podcast.Victoria Meyer shares more about Benchmarking and what to expect at The Chemical Summit, including: The Chemical Summit will provide insights and informal benchmarking for leaders in the chemical industryThe importance of benchmarking as a measuring stick in the chemical industry Addressing gaps in benchmarking, particularly in relation to ESG, sustainability, digitization, and AIThe Chemical Summit will take a different approach to benchmarking and will be...
2023-09-2804 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessInnovating Sustainable Solutions in Homecare and Industrial Cleaning with Aaron Lee of Univar Solutions -Ep 128With the growing trend towards sustainability and natural products, Aaron Lee, Global Vice President of Home Care and Industrial Cleaning for Univar Solutions, discusses the different segments of their business, highlighting the shift towards innovation in the post-pandemic world. Customers are increasingly looking for natural and sustainable alternatives in the home care space. There is a growing demand for multifunctional natural products, and customers are willing to pay a premium for them. In this episode of The Chemical Show, host Victoria Meyer invites Aaron, an industry expert and leader in the field of chemical d...
2023-09-2631 minThe Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessREAL Thought Leadership at The Chemical Summit - Ep 127Our inaugural conference The Chemical Summit is happening October 24-25, 2023 in The Woodlands, Texas. Our exciting agenda features many guests from The Chemical Show podcast that you want to meet, learn from, and know.Victoria Meyer shares more about Thought Leadership and what to expect at The Chemical Summit, including: Three pillars of The Chemical Summit: Thought leadership, Building Connections, and Insights that you can apply to your business.What is thought leadership? How does it apply to me?Keeping it REAL at The Chemical Summit: RelevantEngagingAction-Oriented, and Learnings that you c...
2023-09-2103 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessHow Lummus Technology is Applying Startup Energy to a Legacy Business with Leon de Bruyn - Ep 126Now an independent company, Lummus Technology has become a leading technology developer for new capacity expansion investments in the industry. Their expertise, reputation, and skilled team are applying startup energy to excel independently and drive innovation. Leon De Bruyn, President and CEO of Lummus, an expert in the technology and chemicals, has played a crucial role in the growth and success of Lummus. Leon explores the remarkable transformation of Lummus, a more than one hundred-year-old startup in startup mode. In this episode of The Chemical Show, host Victoria Meyer welcomes Leon to share his w...
2023-09-1931 minThe Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessPower Networking with Women's Energy Network - Ep 125The energy transition is an undeniable force shaping the future of the chemical industry. Discussing the need for transparency, engaging with diverse stakeholders, and embracing innovative technologies to pave the way for a sustainable energy future, Beth Gould Creller, Kara Byrne, and Maggie Teliska, of Women's Energy Network (WEN) Podcast joins forces this week with Victoria Meyer on The Chemical Show. Women's Energy Network (WEN) is proving to be a game-changer for professional journeys across the industry - opening doors to a thriving network of executive members who share similar experiences and challenges. Finding s...
2023-09-121h 04The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessHow Customer and Market Diversification Can Shield Businesses from Economic Challenges - Ep. 124Effective diversification requires assessing future market trends, identifying parallel markets that align with existing products, and extending reach geographically. In this episode of The Chemical Show, host Victoria Meyer, explores the various reasons why companies choose to diversify, including gaining a competitive edge, growing profits, and navigating industry changes. Victoria also discusses the evolving nature of global and regional supply chains and how diversification strategies need to adapt to these changes. This the final episode of host Victoria Meyer’s 3 part series on approaches chemical companies are taking to combat the market weakness in the...
2023-09-0710 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessBuilding a Team for Success: How Verdant is Approaching Sustainable Growth - Ep. 123Successfully navigating a newly-formed company’s first years comes with challenges and opportunities in business systems, workforce development, and sustainable manufacturing. Listen and learn as Victoria Meyer speaks with John Foley, CEO of Verdant Specialty Solutions about solidifying the business in its first two years, then building a platform for growth.John discusses leading the acquisition and integration of multiple businesses in the chemical sector. With a focus on building a strong team, implementing sustainable practices, and leveraging technology, John has brought Verdant to new heights of success. Having recently acquired a specialty oxide pla...
2023-09-0548 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessLeveraging Customer Centricity for Business Resilience in Chemical Markets - Ep. 122Ep 122 Show NotesCustomer Centricity is more than customer satisfaction, it’s about centering on the “right” customers to create Strategic Value. Host Victoria Meyer delves into the concept of customer centricity and its role in creating business resilience. Through insights from leading chemical companies' earnings reports and experts, Victoria unpacks the importance of customer centricity and its impact on strategic value creation.This is part 2 of host Victoria Meyer’s 3 part series on approaches chemical companies are taking to combat the market weakness in the first half of this yea...
2023-08-3111 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessFuture of Operational Excellence is Digital with Stephen Reynolds of AVEVA - Ep. 121Have you ever wondered how the future of operational excellence in the chemical industry will be shaped by digital transformation? In this episode of The Chemical Show, Victoria Meyer welcomes guest Stephen Reynolds, Industry Principal for the Chemical Segment at AVEVA, a global leader in industrial software, driving digital transformation and sustainability. Stephen shares his insights into how technology is revolutionizing operational excellence and empowering employees to drive the business forward. In this episode, Stephen, brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in the chemical industry. With 25 years of working as a chemical engineer, S...
2023-08-2943 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessThe Importance of Commercial Discipline: Unlocking Business Resilience in Challenging Times - Ep 120Exercising good commercial discipline is critical to business resilience and navigating the challenges of today's economy.Over the next 3 episodes, host Victoria Meyer will be diving deep into approaches that chemical companies are taking to combat the market weakness we've seen in the first half of this year (for more on this, check out Episode 118 where I review 2Q23 earnings reports). Victoria’s topic this week: Commercial DisciplineVictoria dives into the concept of commercial discipline and how it can help companies optimize resources, control costs, and maintain strong market positions. Unpacking var...
2023-08-2413 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessScaling Up Sustainable Chemistry: Trillium's Path to Green Acrylonitrile Technology with Corey Tyree - Ep. 119Trillium is making waves with their green technology, replacing petroleum feedstocks with renewable feedstocks to make acrylonitrile. In this episode of The Chemical Show, host Victoria Meyer chats with Corey Tyree, the co-founder and CEO of Trillium Renewable Chemicals about building successful partnerships, the power of experience, and driving sustainability in the chemical industry. Learn more about the following topics this week:Creating partnerships to support product development in a startup Hallmarks of a great partnershipThe diverse end-uses of acrylonitrileThe importance of customer development and consumer demandThe challenge of talent dev...
2023-08-2222 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessReflections on 2Q23 Chemical Industry Earnings Reports - Ep 118While most chemical industry companies and business leaders were anticipating improvements by 2H23, it has proved to be a challenging quarter for most companies, leading into a challenging year. In this episode of The Chemical Show, host Victoria Meyer explores why many companies are lowering full-year earnings outlooks and what’s driving current market conditions. Learn more about the following in this episode:Insights from 2Q23 chemical industry earnings reportsWorst period of chemical inventory destocking since 2008-9Effect of sluggish economies in Europe and ChinaInflationary effects - slowing demand for consumer goodsStrategies companies are...
2023-08-1719 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessUnveiling the Chemistry Behind Executive Search with Stephen Mothersole - Ep. 117The global chemical industry job market continues to feel the ripple effects from the pandemic and work-life balance values have shifted. Sharing his insights on the state of the chemical industry, Stephen Mothersole, CEO of Chemical Search International, joins host Victoria Meyer on The Chemical Show to discuss the challenges in diversity and inclusion, the impact of remote work on talent acquisition, and the changing hiring criteria post-COVID.Learn more about the following topics this week:Current trends in chemical industry talent search: DE&I, AI, shift to remote workSoft...
2023-08-1536 min
The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk BusinessChallenges and Opportunities in Sustainable Industrial Marketing with Scott Bober - Ep. 116From collaborating with major brands to navigating the challenges of sustainable product development and end-of-life solutions, Scott Bober, Senior VP of Global Sales at CJ Biomaterials joins host Victoria Meyer on The Chemical Show to provide valuable insights into the ever-evolving world of sustainable chemicals and materials. CJ Biomaterials is a startup within CJ CheilJedang, the 7th largest conglomerate in Korea. Victoria and Scott discuss CJ’s recent acquisition of Metabolics, giving them an advantage in commercializing their product. Learn more about the following topics this week:1. Helping companies mee...
2023-08-0833 min