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The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk Business

The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk Business

Looking to lead, grow, and stay ahead in the trillion-dollar global chemical industry.

Victoria Meyer

263 episodesEN-US

About

Looking to lead, grow, and stay ahead in the trillion-dollar global chemical industry? The Chemical Show - the #1 business podcast for the chemical industry - is your go-to resource for leadership insights, business strategies, and real-world lessons from the executives shaping the future of chemicals. Grow your knowledge, your network, and your impact. Each week, you'll hear from executives from across the industry - from Fortune 50 to midsize to startups. You’ll hear how they're tacking today's challenges and opportunities, their origin story (what got them here!), how you can take and apply these lessons and insights to your own business and career. We talk: - Business Transformation - Innovation - Digitization of business - Strategy - Supply Chain - and so much more Founder and host Victoria King Meyer is an expert interviewer - who brings out the best in each guest. She gained her industry experience at leading companies, including Shell, LyondellBasell and Clariant. Today, she is a high-performance coach and advisor to business leaders in chemicals and energy, as well as the host of The Chemical Show podcast, and founder of The Chemical Summit. Follow us on LinkedIn for the latest! Websites: https://www.thechemicalshow.com https://www.thechemicalsummit.com https://www.progressioglobal.com

Latest Episodes

View all 263 episodes

Supply Chains Under Stress | Live from AFPM International Petrochemical Conference 2026 - Ep. 262

Apr 21, 20261h 0m

How Policy Impacts Competitiveness with Chris Jahn of American Chemistry Council - Ep. 261

Apr 14, 202624 min

Bringing Chemical Innovation to Market with Eric Appelman of Aduro Clean Technologies - Ep. 260

Apr 7, 202631 min

Ep 262How War with Iran Affects Chemicals | Insights from WPC and WCF 2026 - Ep. 259

Geopolitics, energy volatility, and persistent oversupply are reshaping the global chemical industry as 2025 draws to a close. Victoria Meyer sits down with Kurt Barrow and Andrew Neale from S&P Global to address the forces driving today’s market dynamics, the impact of government policies, and the shifting landscape heading into 2026. They break down how new sanctions, tariffs, and energy transition policies are influencing everything from oil prices and supply chains to chemical production strategies worldwide. Related episode: Strait of Hormuz Crisis - How Supply Chains Are Affected Globally - Ep 257The episode explores regional strengths and vulnerabilities, with North America, the Middle East, and China taking leading roles amid rationalization and capacity closures in Europe and South Korea. Kurt Barrow and Andrew Neale share insights on how chemical producers are responding to cost shifts, supply chain resets, and evolving consumer demand. The conversation also previewed the upcoming World Petrochemical Conference and CERAWeek, emphasizing the need for industry leaders to stay agile in response to accelerated change, emerging technologies, and global market imbalances. Victoria, Kurt, and Andrew discuss the following this week: Why government action, oversupply, and shifting demand are redefining 2025 in the chemical markets. How new sanctions, oil movements, and policy shifts impact feedstocks and chemical production. Real-world examples of how canal disruptions, freight rate swings, and tariffs are reshaping global sourcing. Regional winners and losers as energy prices, assets, and investments shift across Europe, China, and the US. Key strategies for chemical leaders navigating consolidation, energy transition, and market shifts ahead. Killer Quote: "We’ve gone from that globalization to regionalization—that almost helps some of your high cost players very short term...that’s a very near term. How long that lasts if we have another round of tariff movements—European, and we will, but European, I don’t know what it is, but we will in Q2." —Andrew Neale ***Don’t miss an episode: Subscribe to The Chemical Show on your favorite podcast player. ***Like what you hear? Leave a rating and review. ***Want more insights? Sign up for our email list at https://www.thechemicalshow.com

Mar 31, 202632 min

Ep 260How AI is Shaping Energy & Petrochemical Landscape with Amy Jaffe of NYU - Ep. 258

AI’s rapid growth is transforming the energy landscape, sparking critical questions about grid reliability, electricity costs, and future solutions. Host Victoria Meyer talks with Amy Myers Jaffe of NYU to discuss how data centers are pressuring regional grids, why battery storage and grid flexibility matter, and what new market rules could mean for consumers and industry. The conversation highlights how AI can also drive innovation in materials and manufacturing for the chemical industry, pointing to both challenges and opportunities as energy demand and technology reshape the sector. Additional Links: Top Risk Trends for Chemicals, Energy, & Mining in 2026 Subscribe to The Chemical Show on YouTube Join Victoria and Julie this week as they explore the following topics: Evolving from journalist to global energy thought leader. AI’s Energy Impact: increasing and shifting electricity demand Batteries and AI are enabling smarter, more flexible energy management. Rising electricity costs spark debate on fair pricing structures. AI fuels chemical innovation and advances sustainable manufacturing. Killer Quote: "Electricity is the new gasoline." - Amy Jaffe

Mar 24, 202631 min

Ep 258Strait of Hormuz Crisis: How Oil and Chemicals Are Affected Worldwide with Farid Tahvildari - Ep. 257

Stranded ships and blocked oil routes in the Strait of Hormuz are causing far-reaching disruptions across the global chemical industry. NUCO Logistics Managing Director Farid Tahvildari joins host Victoria Meyer to explain how the Iran war has sparked shipping delays, rising surcharges, and new uncertainties—impacting everything from inventory planning to supply chain strategy for chemical companies. Victoria and Farid cover practical actions businesses should take, including diversifying suppliers and preparing for shifting tariffs and paperwork challenges. The conversation also highlights the geopolitical implications for Asia and China, and Farid shares a personal leadership perspective on navigating ongoing crisis and change. Additional Links: Red Sea Shipping Issues and Resolutions Subscribe to The Chemical Show on YouTube Join Victoria and Farid this week as they explore the following topics: Strait of Hormuz Crisis and shipping impact Surging costs and supply chain Disruption China, India, and Geopolitical oil shifts Adapting: Diversified suppliers and crisis lessons Leadership and navigating uncertainty in crisis Killer Quote: "There is no such a thing as normal anymore, at least for foreseeable future." - Farid Tahvildari

Mar 17, 202629 min

Ep 257Digital First Customer Journey in Chemicals with Julie Roberts of ChemPoint - Ep. 256

ChemPoint’s digital-first model is reshaping the chemical distribution landscape by pairing technology-driven sales with a personal touch. Director of Supplier Growth Julie Roberts joins Victoria Meyer to discuss ChemPoint’s evolution from inside sales pioneers to leveraging AI and real-time data for specialty chemicals. Julie highlights the importance of meeting customers where they are—online and offline—while creating value through technical content and rapid response. Victoria and Julie touch on global industry trends, supply chain shifts, and the need for adaptive leadership in a changing market. Their conversation offers practical insight for industry professionals—whether you’re navigating digital transformation, strengthening customer relationships, or leading teams through uncertainty. Subscribe to The Chemical Show on YouTube Join Victoria and Julie this week as they explore the following topics: ChemPoint’s digital-first approach to chemical distribution How AI is transforming workflows and customer experiences Tackling market shifts and supply chain challenges Global expansion and adapting to regional market changes Leadership, diversity, and success for women in chemicals Killer Quote: "Don't be afraid to take risks. The answer is always going to be no if you don't ask the question." -Julie Roberts***Don’t miss an episode: Subscribe to The Chemical Show on your favorite podcast player. ***Like what you hear? Leave a rating and review. ***Want more insights? Sign up for our email list at https://www.thechemicalshow.com

Mar 10, 202638 min

Ep 256Jennifer Abril, ACI at 100, and the Future of the Cleaning Industry - Ep. 255

Record attendance, industry transformation, and the push for science-backed clarity are setting the tone for the American Cleaning Institute’s centennial year. Jennifer Abril, ACI’s new leader, joins host Victoria Meyer to share how the organization is meeting member demands for authoritative guidance and consumer trust amidst regulatory pressures and rapid industry change. Jennifer provides a behind-the-scenes look at the priorities for 2026; getting new chemistries to market, modernizing regulatory processes like TSCA, and redefining ACI’s “North Star” for the future. The conversation highlights the importance of innovation, policy modernization, and strategic leadership as ACI celebrates its 100th anniversary and positions itself for the challenges and opportunities of a new century. Subscribe to The Chemical Show on YouTube Listen in as Victoria and April discuss the following: ACI’s 100th anniversary: new era, leadership, and vision Science-driven advocacy and combating industry misinformation Leading industry transformation and embracing innovation Regulatory hurdles and TSCA modernization efforts Jennifer Abril’s vision: partnerships and strategic direction Killer Quote: "We really believe that consumers are looking for a trusted authoritative body. That's a responsibility that we have and it is a responsibility that our member companies have specifically asked me to lead the organization into - to really step into that gap." - Jennifer Abril Additional Links: Five Key Questions for Jennifer Abril: Leadership, Transformation, and the Future of Chemicals The Different Impacts Of Chemical Industry That We Rarely Realize With Melissa Hockstad ***Don’t miss an episode: Subscribe to The Chemical Show on your favorite podcast player. ***Like what you hear? Leave a rating and review. ***Want more insights? Sign up for our email list at https://www.thechemicalshow.com

Mar 3, 202619 min

Ep 255Chemical M&A Trends for 2026: Insights from Jon Glapa of Grace Matthews - Ep. 254

Uncertainty is fading and M&A activity is heating up in the chemicals and materials industry for 2026. Host Victoria King Meyer speaks with Jon Glapa of Grace Matthews about why the year ahead is shaping up to be strong for dealmaking. They discuss how greater strategic clarity, market stability, and disciplined capital deployment are spurring renewed confidence among buyers and sellers. Victoria and Jon explore the contrasting approaches of private equity and strategic buyers; the pitfalls mid-market companies face in M&A preparation, and actionable leadership advice for chemical executives. The conversation centers on the need for early preparation, customer focus, and a clear five-year vision as keys to navigating the evolving landscape of deals and growth. Subscribe to The Chemical Show on YouTube Victoria and Jon expand on the following topics: Inside Chemical M&A: What makes a company an attractive target Navigating uncertainty and how leaders managed 2025’s volatile market Key drivers behind deal valuations and multiples Private Equity vs. Strategics: Who’s winning chemical industry deals? Preparing your business for future transactions Killer Quote: "I tend to think of uncertainty as the enemy of M&A. You can navigate through certain dynamics, but when uncertainty increases, it becomes more and more challenging." – Jon Glapa ***Don’t miss an episode: Subscribe to The Chemical Show on your favorite podcast player. ***Like what you hear? Leave a rating and review. ***Want more insights? Sign up for our email list at https://www.thechemicalshow.com

Feb 24, 202626 min

Ep 254Overcapacity or Opportunity? Critical Chemical Decisions Shaping 2026 with Steve Lewandowski and Adrian Calcaneo of OPIS - Ep. 253

The dramatic rise of AI, shifting geopolitics, and industry overcapacity are putting energy and chemicals at a crossroads. Victoria Meyer sits down with Steve Lewandowski and Adrian Calcaneo of Chemical Market Analytics to unpack how these forces are driving volatility and change across global markets. From increased US exports of natural gas liquids to oversupplied chemical sectors and the challenges facing Europe and Asia, the discussion lays out the most immediate pressures—and potential responses—for the industry. The episode features a candid look at rationalization needs, the evolving role of integrated oil and chemical businesses, and how AI is influencing energy use and operational strategy. It’s an essential listen for industry professionals navigating today’s shifting landscape and planning for what’s next. Subscribe to The Chemical Show on YouTube Register for the World Chemical Forum with code: CHEMSHOW15 Victoria, Steve and Adrian discuss the following: The force shaping industry direction Adapting to a shifting business landscape Building stronger consumer connections Evolving approaches to product effectiveness Navigating today’s competitive environment Killer Quote: "For me, in chemicals, more rationalizations are going to be announced. It's just impossible not to happen because cash flow is just too big of a problem right now. No matter where, where oil goes, you know, those guys running heavier feeds are still going to be weak on margin. ... You’ve got to survive today, but you’ve also got to plan for tomorrow. So don't lose sight of things coming, you know, in the future." — Steve Lewandowski ***Don’t miss an episode: Subscribe to The Chemical Show on your favorite podcast player. ***Like what you hear? Leave a rating and review. ***Want more insights? Sign up for our email list at https://www.thechemicalshow.com

Feb 17, 202637 min

Ep 253Inside ACI Annual Meeting 2026: Strategic Trends Shaping Cleaning Products - Ep. 252

Science continues to shape the cleaning products industry, but trust and pragmatism are driving real decisions. Host Victoria King Meyer reports back from the American Cleaning Institute’s 100th annual conference, highlighting five essential themes impacting chemical and cleaning product businesses. From scalable sustainable solutions and the power of consumer-driven labeling to the need for clearer regulatory pathways, industry leaders are focused on connecting chemistry and biology to practical needs. These insights provide a smart look at how cleaning product companies are balancing innovation, consumer expectations, and regulatory hurdles as they work to grow and adapt in 2026. Victoria examines these topics in this week: The force shaping industry direction Adapting to a shifting business landscape Building stronger consumer connections Evolving approaches to product effectiveness Navigating today’s competitive environment Killer Quote: "So if I was going to talk about one overall theme, and this is the theme that's going to run through everything I talk about today, it's science." - Victoria Meyer Subscribe to The Chemical Show on YouTube ***Don’t miss an episode: Subscribe to The Chemical Show on your favorite podcast player. ***Like what you hear? Leave a rating and review. ***Want more insights? Sign up for our email list at https://www.thechemicalshow.com

Feb 10, 202614 min

Ep 252How Regional Focus Shapes Customer Partnerships with LSB Industries CEO Mark Behrman - Ep. 251

From investment banking to the CEO seat at LSB Industries, Mark Behrman joins Victoria Meyer to discuss strategic transformation, market dynamics, and leadership in the chemical industry. Hear how LSB evolved from a traditional industrial conglomerate to a leading North American ammonia and nitric acid producer through operational integration, a focus on people, and strong customer partnerships. They also cover how LSB is approaching digitalization, AI, and sustainability—with a spotlight on their upcoming carbon capture project in Arkansas. Mark shares practical leadership lessons for both seasoned executives and industry newcomers, emphasizing curiosity, culture, and long-term vision. Victoria and Mark discuss the following: From Wall Street to CEO: Mark’s unique path to leadership. How focus and culture reshaped LSB Industries. Navigating regional dynamics and tariff impacts of Ammonia. People First: The central role of culture in company success. LSB’s journey with digital, sustainability, and efficiency. Killer Quote:"It's really all about the people. If you get a really good team of people that have the same common goal, same values, same drive, same level of curiosity, then they just figure out how to get things done." -Mark Behrman Subscribe to The Chemical Show on YouTube ***Don’t miss an episode: Subscribe to The Chemical Show on your favorite podcast player. ***Like what you hear? Leave a rating and review.***Want more insights? Sign up for our email list at https://www.thechemicalshow.com

Feb 3, 202629 min

Ep 251How Energy and Geopolitics Influence Chemical Industry in 2026 with S&P Global - Ep. 250

Global volatility, trade shifts, and new government policies are reshaping the chemical industry for 2026. Industry leaders Olivier Maronneaud and Pooja Jain from S&P Global join host Victoria Meyer to share S&P’s economic outlook and discuss supply-driven cycles, plant closures, and rising government intervention. They explore how North America, Europe, and Asia are responding to persistent oversupply and evolving plastics and methanol markets, with a look at where future investments may land after today’s capacity wave. The episode covers the urgent need for flexibility—addressing tariffs, changing trade patterns, rationalization, and the ongoing race for scale. The speakers also weigh in on the slowdown in sustainability efforts, regional risks and opportunities, and key market indicators for 2026. Essential listening for chemical leaders navigating strategy, investment, and fast-moving policy changes. Victoria, Olivier, and Pooja explore the following topics: 2026 Outlook: S&P Global's view on global economic impact to chemicals How producers are responding to oversupply Tariffs and new policies are redrawing global chemical trade routes. How chemical investment strategies are changing Current state of circularity and sustainability Killer Quote: "This investment wave has a center point in China. It's originating from China. But what happens in China doesn't stay in China. It kind of disrupts everywhere.” -Pooja Jain Subscribe to The Chemical Show on YouTube ***Don’t miss an episode: Subscribe to The Chemical Show on your favorite podcast player. ***Like what you hear? Leave a rating and review.***Want more insights? Sign up for our email list at https://www.thechemicalshow.com

Jan 27, 202640 min

Ep 250Top Risk Trends for Chemicals, Energy, & Mining in 2026 - Ep. 249

Geopolitical shifts, emerging technologies, and changing business models are reshaping risk for chemicals, energy, and mining companies as they look ahead to 2026. Host Victoria Meyer explores the top risk trends impacting these sectors with firsthand insights from Marsh industry leaders including Kimberly Mann, Bill Kost, Cynthia Hazard, Steve Horstkamp, and Raoul Munoz after attending the Marsh North American Energy Conference. Discussions range from the rising importance of M&A and evolving credit risks, to the critical role of social license and geopolitics in mining, as well as the proactive management of environmental liabilities. The conversation also addresses the transformative impact of AI—not just as a potential disruptor, but as a catalyst for new job opportunities and operational efficiencies. Victoria and guests highlight the need for organizations to build adaptive, collaborative, and forward-thinking risk strategies across business functions. With rapid change the new “normal,” these insights offer practical guidance for leaders intent on managing uncertainty and building resilience within the chemicals, energy, and mining sectors. Victoria and guests discuss the following: How M&A, market shifts, and geopolitics are reshaping risk in chemicals, energy, and mining for 2026 Why global politics and community buy-in are critical for mining and minerals companies' success The impact of artificial intelligence on jobs, business models, operations, and sector vulnerabilities The growing importance of being adaptive, collaborative, and clear-eyed about risk management Managing workforce transformation, setting AI boundaries, and upskilling for a resilient future Killer Quote: "When I speak to leaders about transformation, it's not about job loss, it's about job redesign. So they need to be thinking, how do we need to work to be the best ABC company to do what we do? It's taking that redundant low value work, giving it to an AI agent and then really upskilling our employees, the humans to be better at what we do.” - Cynthia Hazard Subscribe to The Chemical Show on YouTube ***Don’t miss an episode: Subscribe to The Chemical Show on your favorite podcast player. ***Like what you hear? Leave a rating and review. ***Want more insights? Sign up for our email list at https://www.thechemicalshow.com

Jan 20, 202620 min

Ep 249What’s Ahead for Marine Logistics in 2026 with Noushin Shamsili of NUCO Logistics - Ep. 248

Trade policy volatility, supply chain disruptions, and the fast adoption of digital tools are rapidly reshaping marine logistics for the chemical industry. Noushin Shamsili, CEO of NUCO Logistics, joins Victoria Meyer to reflect on the market forces that defined 2025—including overnight tariff changes, ongoing geopolitical conflicts affecting the Suez Canal, and the rebound of the Panama Canal—and shares how these shifts have tested and transformed logistics operations. Victoria and Noushin explore the critical importance of compliance, the cautious integration of AI in chemical logistics, and strategies for companies to build resilience in uncertain times. They also discuss leadership lessons learned during a year of change—from strengthening customer engagement and team communication to advocating for rigorous internal trade compliance, setting the stage for smarter, more responsive logistics in 2026. Additional Links: How NUCO Logistics Pivoted During The Pandemic With Noushin Shamsili Innovative Logistic Solutions With Noushin Shamsili Of NUCO Logistics Victoria and Noushin cover the following topics: Why 2025 was surprisingly strong for executive searches and transformation-focused hiring in chemicals. How talent shortages are impacting early-career professionals and senior leaders. 2026 hiring outlook: specialty roles, streamlined leadership, and the push for digital and sustainable growth. Navigating the US-Europe pay gap and international recruiting challenges. How leaders can quantify results, grow networks, and build cross-functional skills. Killer Quote: "In terms of customer engagement, I've been a big advocate of asking them and talking about the importance of paying more attention to the trade compliance in house and what they have in terms of being audit ready. Because of the fact that international logistics and trade compliance is not just another ticking a checkbox, but it has become an essential part of the business." - Noushin Shamsili Subscribe to The Chemical Show on YouTube ***Don’t miss an episode: Subscribe to The Chemical Show on your favorite podcast player. ***Like what you hear? Leave a rating and review. ***Want more insights? Sign up for our email list at https://www.thechemicalshow.com

Jan 6, 202631 min

Ep 2482025 Wrapped and Replayed - Ep. 247

Chemical industry professionals turned out in record numbers to hear insights from top leaders, with Peter Huntsman’s interview on innovation, learning, and the regulatory landscape named the most popular episode of the year. Host Victoria Meyer breaks down 2025’s Wrapped highlights, sharing a data-driven look at global listener demographics, preferred audio platforms, and the surprising fact that Taylor Swift tops the musical charts for Chemical Show fans. Explore the year’s standout episodes—from market updates with S&P Global and ICIS to deep dives on personal care ingredients and the critical importance of cybersecurity for operations with Robert M. Lee. Hear how leaders such as Michael Lefenfeld are transforming legacy businesses, and discover what your peers are reading and listening to. Plus, get a preview of what’s ahead in 2026, including the show’s fifth anniversary and next year’s The Chemical Summit in Houston. Additional Links: Peter Huntsman Discusses Innovation, Leadership, and Regulatory Environments In Chemicals Personal Care Ingredients Market Trends with Sunanda Desai of Kline + Company 2025 Chemical Market Update With Kurt Barrow & Tony Potter Of S&P Global Transforming Hexion: CEO Michael Lefenfeld on Innovation, AI, and Leading With Customer Focus Dragos CEO Robert Lee On Bridging The Gap In OT Cybersecurity For Critical Industries Subscribe to The Chemical Show on YouTube Victoria explores the following topics: Discover who tunes in, where they listen, and how The Chemical Show fits into everyday life. 2025’s Best Episodes: Highlights from top guests like Peter Huntsman, expert market updates, and cybersecurity deep-dives with Rob Lee. The growing impact of YouTube and changing audio habits among chemical professionals. Market trends, innovation, regulations, and personal care ingredients driving conversations in chemicals. Building connections through summits and events, plus a look ahead to the show’s fifth anniversary celebration. Killer Quote: "I'm really thankful that you've been part of the Chemical Show this year and looking forward to another great year together in 2026. So thank you and happy holidays.” - Victoria Meyer

Dec 23, 202525 min

Ep 247Chemical Talent Insights for 2026: Transformation, Succession, and Specialized Hiring - Ep. 246

Unprecedented transformation is shaping the chemical industry's talent landscape as companies prioritize digitalization and commercial fluency over traditional experience. Victoria Meyer is joined by Lisa Brantley, Head of Client Consulting and Executive Search for the Americas at Mercuri Urval, to discuss how global market shifts, AI, and structural change are redefining what chemical executives need for success in 2025 and beyond. Victoria and Lisa break down the widening talent gaps, the strategic importance of cross-functional leadership, and the rising demand for interim leaders and specialized roles. The conversation highlights the nuances of recruiting in North America versus Europe, effective use of LinkedIn for career mobility, and actionable guidance for succession planning. These insights help chemical industry professionals understand how to prepare themselves and their teams for the growth cycles ahead. Victoria and Lisa discuss the following topics: Why 2025 was surprisingly strong for executive searches and transformation-focused hiring in chemicals. How talent shortages are impacting early-career professionals and senior leaders. 2026 hiring outlook: specialty roles, streamlined leadership, and the push for digital and sustainable growth. Navigating the US-Europe pay gap and international recruiting challenges. How leaders can quantify results, grow networks, and build cross-functional skills. Killer Quote: "I would challenge a leader who might be part of this discussion to think about, okay, who am I building up in my organization to prepare myself for what we know and what we hope is going to be ahead in the next three to five years?" - Lisa Brantley Subscribe to The Chemical Show on YouTube ***Don’t miss an episode: Subscribe to The Chemical Show on your favorite podcast player. ***Like what you hear? Leave a rating and review. ***Want more insights? Sign up for our email list at https://www.thechemicalshow.com

Dec 16, 202530 min

Ep 246Is Recovery on the Horizon? Hard Realities Facing Petrochemicals in 2026 with John Stekla of Perin Resources - Ep. 245

Global oversupply, uncertain demand, and tough cost structures are reshaping the chemical industry, leaving many companies facing unprecedented challenges. John Stekla, Director at Parin Resources, joins host Victoria Meyer for a frank conversation about the realities facing chemical producers, traders, and buyers as the industry moves into 2026. They examine the drivers of margin compression, how U.S. and global players are making difficult operational choices, and why even the industry’s cost advantages aren't a guaranteed ticket to success. Victoria and John also discuss shifting strategies among buyers and sellers, the implications of recent structural changes and plant closures, and how companies are preparing for what could be several more years of pressured results. Despite the near-term headwinds, John underscores the long-term value of the U.S. cost position and the cycles that have always defined chemical markets, sharing practical insights for leaders seeking to navigate uncertainty and position their businesses for the future. Additional Links: Conversations On The Propylene And Olefin Market With John Stekla The State Of The Petrochemical Industry Post Hurricane Ida With John Stekla Victoria examines the following topics: Global chemicals face excess supply, flat demand, and rising competition. Companies are focusing on efficiency and cost-cutting to survive shrinking margins. The industry is restructuring with asset shutdowns and tough make-or-buy decisions. U.S. cost advantage persists, but fuels new competition as exports rise. Lessons from past cycles highlight the need for readiness and adaptability. Killer Quote: "The bright and shiny thing really is ... the cost position that can't be reproduced anywhere in the world ... That puts us in a great position to take advantage of the demand when it bounces back. And it will, without a doubt. We're always in cycles and you could argue it's an eight or ten year cycle, but we've been through this before and we're in a very strong position to weather it." — John Stekla Subscribe to The Chemical Show on YouTube ***Don’t miss an episode: Subscribe to The Chemical Show on your favorite podcast player. ***Like what you hear? Leave a rating and review. ***Want more insights? Sign up for our email list at https://www.thechemicalshow.com

Dec 9, 202527 min

Ep 24515-Minute Leadership Reset: Your Year-End Momentum Plan - Ep. 244

Leaders who finish strong in December are the ones who start January ahead—both in focus and momentum. Victoria Meyer offers a practical 15-minute leadership reset for chemical industry professionals looking to close out 2025 with intention while laying the groundwork for a high-impact 2026. With just three weeks left in the business year, Victoria shares four core actions: resetting priorities, bringing clarity and alignment to the team, strengthening key relationships, and setting personal leadership goals for the year ahead. Additional Link: Get your worksheet!These steps go beyond simply completing tasks—they help leaders cut through year-end noise, avoid the common January “catch-up,” and step into the new year with clear purpose. Victoria draws from real-world executive coaching experiences, offering actionable questions and strategies for business professionals ready to boost their impact. Tune in to get a concise blueprint for finishing 2025 strong and building strategic momentum for 2026. Victoria examines the following topics: How to use December’s final weeks to build momentum for a powerful start in January. Why intentional year-end decisions matter more than just task completion for lasting success in 2026. Four essential actions for chemical industry leaders to maximize impact and reset focus before year’s end. The importance of strengthening one key connection now to unlock new opportunities in the coming year. Personalize 2026: Set leadership goals for yourself to lead with clarity and purpose in the new year. Killer Quote: “Closing the year strong isn't about doing more. It's not about finishing every task and checking off every task that showed up on your to do list for the year. It's really about focusing your energy, clarifying your impact, and creating momentum that carries into January.” - Victoria Meyer Subscribe to The Chemical Show on YouTube ***Don’t miss an episode: Subscribe to The Chemical Show on your favorite podcast player. ***Like what you hear? Leave a rating and review. ***Want more insights? Sign up for our email list at https://www.thechemicalshow.com

Dec 2, 202513 min

Ep 244What to Take to Thanksgiving Dinner: 5 Truths Shaping the Chemical Industry - Ep. 243

What’s the one thing you should always bring to Thanksgiving dinner? According to host Victoria Meyer, it’s a great conversation starter—especially about topics that matter in the chemical industry today. From questions about the future of plastics and the impact of AI to navigating a challenging job market and redefining leadership, Victoria lays out five key talking points to help spark smart, relevant discussions around the holiday table. Victoria explores the uneven state of the economy, the rapid adoption of AI, the real story behind plastics and sustainability, how leaders are recalibrating during times of transition, and why talent and skills gaps are shaping the future of the industry. Her practical insights deliver both context and clarity for professionals facing today’s market challenges—making this episode a timely resource for both your Thanksgiving conversations and your business strategy. Victoria explores the following topics: 1. Why the economy feels uneven and how chemicals give you unique insight. 2. How AI is already shaping your world—at work and at home. 3. What to say when tough plastics or sustainability questions arise. 4. How resilient leaders focus and adapt during rapid business shifts. 5. Why the biggest risk—and opportunity—is the people powering the chemical industry. Killer Quote: “Honestly, right now, the economy is a lot like the Thanksgiving table, the table that you'll be sitting at with all your friends and family and relatives and whatever you do. Everyone's having a different experience, but we're all in the same room.” - Victoria Meyer Subscribe to The Chemical Show on YouTube ***Don’t miss an episode: Subscribe to The Chemical Show on your favorite podcast player. ***Like what you hear? Leave a rating and review. ***Want more insights? Sign up for our email list at https://www.thechemicalshow.com

Nov 25, 202514 min
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