The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk Business

Discover 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. Gain insights into the labor shortage and explore potential solutions through immigration, automation, and upskilling.3. Recognize the significance of data in supporting supply chain, collaboration, and business differentiation.4. Explore strategies to upskill existing resources within the chemical industry to fill the demand for data analysis and digitization.5. Reflect on the importance of customer-centric approaches in creating value and driving sustainable growth in the chemical industry.Killer quote/insight: "Data is a differentiating factor in business transformation and is key to differentiate businesses to their customers and suppliers." - Pam Walker, UL SolutionsFollow The Chemical Summit on LinkedIn for updates about this year and next year’s events. https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/the-chemical-summit/ShowNotes created using CastMagic.io. Check it out here: https://get.castmagic.io/ean5etivmzi1***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 www.thechemicalshow.com.

Our 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 transform their businesses and embrace sustainability.Victoria Meyer shares more about the insights shared by industry leaders at The Chemical Summit, including: The biggest challenges chemical companies face todayIf you want your business to transform, YOU as a leader need to transform. (Megan Gluth-Bohan, CEO of TRInternational on transformational leadership)True change takes decades. The chemical industry will success in sustainability by evolution not revolution. (Brad Beauchamp, CEO of Carpenter Co., Evolution not Revolution: The Path to Sustainability) The chemical industry is currently producing thousands of circular products, they’re just not marketing them as circular. (Kelly Gilroy of Univar Solutions in The Path to Sustainability is Not (Only) Circular panel discussion)ESG investing only works when companies are creating profits and value (Jonas Oxgaard of McKinsey in The Path to Sustainability is Not (Only) Circular panel discussion)ESG is all about culture and value – your company culture and values (Terry Hill of Barentz in a Fireside Chat about ESG).Follow The Chemical Summit on LinkedIn for updates about this year and next year’s events. https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/the-chemical-summit/***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 www.thechemicalshow.com.

The 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 market impact job mobility, compensation trends, and talent retention in the chemical industry. Uncover the challenges faced by professionals and gain actionable strategies to navigate these complex dynamics. Join us to learn more about the following this week:"Weird" 4th Quarter job market in the chemical industryHow is the housing market affecting the chemical industry job marketKey trends in talent and recruiting in the chemical industryExpanding the chemical sector's talent poolThe cost of keeping employee verses replacing themHybrid work critical driver in employee decisions The rise of Gen Z in the workforceAdvice to chemical companies looking to fill rolesAdvice to candidates looking to land chemical company jobsVictoria and Adam also discuss the challenge of attracting and retaining talent in a talent war due to the retirement of experienced professionals. Additionally, Adam highlights the importance of salary competitiveness, remote work opportunities, and the evolving social skills of Gen Z employees. Whether you're a job seeker navigating the industry or an employer looking to adapt to changing trends, this episode offers valuable perspectives on the state of the chemical industry job market.Additional Links:https://www.wsj.com/podcasts/your-money-matters/how-mba-students-are-dealing-with-a-tighter-job-market/Salary Survey: https://www.sunrecruiting.com/report-results23/***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 www.thechemicalshow.com.

In 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 this episode of The Chemical Show, host Victoria Meyer and Kristin, also known as “The Bitter Gal”, discuss working with major consumer brands to ensure their products are safe and effective. Through their conversation, Victoria and Kristin delve into the importance of transparency in product safety, the challenges faced in the industry, and the need for standardized information to empower consumers in making informed choiceJoin us to learn more about the following this week:Product safety through BitrexThe increasing demand for transparency and safety in productsGaining customer insights and meeting the needs of the marketWorking against commoditization to ensure valueGlobal safety standardsBitrex product tastingACI's Future Leaders ProgramStandardizing customer understanding Victoria and Kristin explore the challenges and importance of enhancing product safety and discuss how the manufacturing practices of global companies and the overflow of practices to other regions have led to varying levels of product safety discussion. They further emphasize the impact of transparency trends in consumer awareness and the need for standardized information to assist consumers in making informed decisions. Listen in as they share insights, real-life examples, and strategies to ensure product safety in an evolving consumer landscape.***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 www.thechemicalshow.com.

Delving 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 Chad, anyone in a managerial role can become a coach, regardless of job title. This thought-provoking perspective invites us to reimagine a world where the word "manager" is replaced with "coach."Join us to learn more about the following this week:Integrity Biochem's take on the markets in 2023 and going into 2024Your customer's business decisions and how it drives business valueHow to create customer "stickiness" - keeping business versus winning it The tug of war between corporate control and procurement control - uncovering value and ROISustainability and ESG in oil and gasScaling products to take on aggressive sustainability goalsCoaching versus managing With years of experience in executive coaching and a passion for helping others succeed, Chad brings a unique perspective to his conversation about coaching, the power of building strong relationships, and the importance of delivering on promises in the chemical industry with Victoria. Join us this week to learn more. ***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 www.thechemicalshow.com. Additional Links:Michael Suver Ep13: Bio-Based Chemistry: The Rise Of A Green Chemical Industry With Michael SuverMichael Suver Ep 44: How The Chemical Industry Is Becoming Sustainable With Cameron Whaley And Michael SuverThe Wall Street Journal: Companies Stall Climate Action Despite Earlier Promises

Our 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: 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 www.thechemicalshow.com.

Have 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 the significant amount of CO2 emissions produced globally each year and the need to do something with this captured carbon. Keith shares his insights and experiences in developing technologies that repurpose CO2, the challenges faced in gaining market acceptance, and the potential for creating a circular economy in industries such as polyurethanes and surfactants.Join us to learn more about the following this week:Hitting chemical industry glass ceilingsThe origin story of Econic TechnologiesDefining what "good" looks like through working with the world's largest chemical companiesEconic's focus on commercializing technology"Pioneered Licensees" with Econic TechnologiesCritical attributes in chemical industry business partnershipsWorking with customers' resistance to new technologyOpportunities in the renewable carbon initiative, sustainability in the chemical industryChina's influence on the chemical industryWhat's next for Econic?In this episode, Victoria and Keith delve into the exciting world of carbon capture and utilization. Keith discusses the challenges faced in repurposing CO2 emissions, the need to create a market and demand for such technologies, and the importance of collaboration with partners and understanding the value chain. We explore the global push for sustainability and how the chemical industry can play a pivotal role in driving innovation and efficiency. Join us as we uncover the potential for creating a circular economy and turning carbon dioxide into a valuable resource for industry.***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 www.thechemicalshow.com.

Our 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 informal yet relevantLearn more and register for The Chemical Summit at www.thechemicalsummit.com***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 www.thechemicalshow.com.

With 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 distribution, to share insights into the different segments of their business, including home care, industrial and hospitality, and auto appearance. Victoria and Aaron discuss the challenges and opportunities for innovation in science during the pandemic. Aaron shares how Univar Solutions played a part in this story, especially with their home care and industrial cleaning team.Join us as Victoria and Aaron discuss the following topics this week:How the cleaning industry keeps the economy healthy, fed, clean, and safeThe post pandemic shift to innovation in the cleaning industryNatural and bio-based products in the cleaning industryHow the pandemic changed global consumer behaviors in home care, auto, and hospitality cleaning industriesThe quest to create more natural and sustainable productsThe role of chemical industry distribution nowVictoria and Aaron discuss Univar Solutions' commitment to expanding their portfolio of sustainable and eco-friendly products, and how they work closely with customers and suppliers to develop innovative solutions. Aaron also sheds light on the evolving role of chemical distribution companies, where they not only provide logistics but also play a crucial role in driving innovation. Tune in to gain valuable insights into the declining hospitality industry, the importance of sustainability, and the future of chemical distribution in the cleaning industry.***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 www.thechemicalshow.com.

Our 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 can LeverageDeliberate engagement and REAL thought-leadership at The Chemical SummitLearn more and register for The Chemical Summit at www.thechemicalsummit.com***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 www.thechemicalshow.com.

Now 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 wealth of knowledge and experience as he uncovers the secrets behind Lummus' remarkable evolution. Leon shares his leadership strengths and abilities and sheds light on Lummus' emphasis on portfolio expansion, growth, and incorporating new technology innovators. Exploring their focus on providing expertise throughout the value chain and their investment in innovative technologies, Leon shares Lummus’ interest in energy transition and market growth. Learn more about the following topics this week:Challenges and opportunities of creating a new standalone company on the shoulders of an old companyShifting mindsets: From engineering hours to customer value and technologyInstilling a new culture to drive growth and innovationThe role of digitization in Lummus' business Building a technology portfolio for the futureVictoria and Leon discuss Lummus’ accomplishments, its plans for the future, and the importance of leadership in navigating challenges, all while maintaining a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship. Join us as we uncover Lummus' fascinating story and gain valuable insights into the ever-evolving chemical industry.***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 www.thechemicalshow.com. 01:31 Leon de Bruyn’s origin story2:40 100 year-old technology company in startup mode4:42 Challenges and opportunities in carving out a technology business8:39 How Lummus has become more customer-centric15:34 Redefining company culture to support new business structure and strategy18:20 The role of digitization in enabling Net Zero carbon goals24:02 Aligning values and goals to create a successful partnership26:15 Future portfolio growth opportunities for Lummus Technology

The 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 support and building strong relationships within WEN, women from across the industry are enhancing their personal and professional growth. Learn more about the following topics this week:Women's Energy Network (WEN) Podcast Origin StoryCreating a more coordinated and transparent effort in the energy industryOrigins of The Chemical ShowBalancing efforts in the energy industry through podcastingLeveraging the Women's Energy Network (WEN) for Professional GrowthConnecting the workforce through WENNavigating the energy transitionImportance of Creative Solutions and Optimism in the Energy TransitionVictoria, Beth, Kara, and Maggie discuss power networking, the importance of company culture, and navigating the energy transition. Sharing their personal experiences with WEN, Victoria, Beth, Kara, and Maggie highlight the supportive network and opportunities for career development. Gain valuable insights on recognizing untapped talent, fostering an inclusive environment, and engaging with stakeholders for a holistic approach to decarbonization in the energy industry. ***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 www.thechemicalshow.com.

Effective 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 first half of this year (for more on this, check out Episode 118 of The Chemical Show where Victoria reviews 2Q23 earnings reports, Episode 120 which covers Commercial Discipline, and Episode 122 which covers Customer Centricity. Learn more about the following:How diversification creates business resilienceGood business performance in a flat economy = diversification decisions made early onHow companies diversifyThe importance of market adjacencies in diversificationConsidering the power of customer and market diversification in driving business resilience, Victoria Meyer delves into the importance of diversification in creating a strong and adaptable business. Victoria highlights the perspectives of industry leaders and provides insights into how diversification can help chemical companies navigate flat and inflationary markets, beat the competition, and thrive in times of uncertainty.***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 www.thechemicalshow.com. *** Engage with other leaders on Customer Centricity at The Chemical Summit www.thechemicalsummit.comAdditional Links:Igor Ansoff

Successfully 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 plant and a range of businesses, John shares his insights on workforce development, strategic acquisitions, and the importance of balancing commercial strategy with team-building efforts.Learn more about the following topics this week:Verdant 1.0 - buying and integrating the 3 businesses, standing up a back office, implementing an ERP system, and safety and complianceIntroduction of Verdant 2.0 - growth strategyIdentifying what's really creating value for your customersHow Verdant is navigating an uncertain economySustainable ManufacturingMaximizing the Potential of a state of the art specialty chemical plantFinding Business success in teamworkVictoria and John chat about the importance of sustainable manufacturing and the potential to strengthen a smaller chemical company’s technology capabilities through external acquisitions. Join them as they uncover the secrets to building a successful chemical company on The Chemical Show.***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 www.thechemicalshow.com.

Ep 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 year (for more on this, check out Episode 118 of The Chemical Show where Victoria reviews 2Q23 earnings reports and Episode 120 which covers Commercial Discipline. Learn more about the following:Defining customer centricity in the chemical industryPutting the right customers at the center of your businessAssessing customer lifetime valueWhy strategic alignment mattersBusiness segmentation to create a higher level customer experienceEmployee buy-inVictoria explores the definition and differentiation of customer centricity from customer service, highlighting that not all customers are created equal. Emphasizing the need to focus on the right customers to create strategic value, Victoria shares key elements of customer centricity, including customer lifetime value, strategic alignment, segmentation, and employee buy-in. Gain a deeper understanding of the journey towards customer centricity and how it can enhance business resilience in challenging market conditions.***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 www.thechemicalshow.com. *** Engage with other leaders on Customer Centricity at The Chemical Summit. www.thechemicalsummit.com

Have 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, Stephen has witnessed the evolution of operational excellence firsthand. Victoria and Stephen discuss the changing landscape of the industry and how companies are becoming leaner, relying on advancements in technology to empower their employees. Stephen delves into the concept of the Connected Worker and how augmented reality and virtual reality tools are transforming how operators on the shop floor access and utilize information. This episode is a must-listen for professionals looking to understand the future of operational excellence in the digital age.Learn more about the following topics this week:Using operational excellence to achieve a higher level of performanceHow the chemical and plastics industry's approach to operations and operational excellence has evolvedBridging the gap of the information through Connected WorkerWhat is a digital twin and how do you harness its power?The value in digital transformation for small to mid-sized chemical companies.Digital assets aiding in sustainability and ESG transparency and accountabilityJoin us in this insightful episode as we explore the future of operational excellence in the chemical industry. Stephen shares his expertise on how companies are leveraging technology to build a more sustainable and efficient future. From the power of the digital twin concept to the implementation of advanced analytics and AI tools, Stephen provides valuable insights into how technology is revolutionizing the chemical industry.Please subscribe to The Chemical Show on your favorite podcast player. And, visit www.thechemicalshow.com to subscribe to our email list and get additional insights.

Exercising 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 various approaches that companies are taking, touches on the following strategies for commercial discipline:Cost optimization as a key component of commercial disciplineControlling the right costs and understanding value through cost clarityCashflow managementBusiness efficiency and optimization through automating and streamlining processesPrioritizing & optimizing products and solutionsExploring the concept of control and clarity as essential components of commercial discipline, Victoria emphasizes the need to focus on the right costs and gain a deep understanding of actual costs rather than relying on assumptions. Discussing the role of cash flow management in improving financial stability, Victoria explores strategies for optimizing business efficiency and supply chains. Additionally, Victoria highlights the significance of prioritizing and optimizing products to drive growth and profitability. Don't miss this episode packed with actionable strategies to enhance your company's commercial discipline.Please subscribe to The Chemical Show on your favorite podcast player. And, visit www.thechemicalshow.com to subscribe to our email list and get additional insights.

Trillium 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 development and acquisition in a startupFeasibility of Net zero and carbon neutrality by 2050Victoria and Corey dive into the importance of partnerships with corporations, transparency, and trust in achieving successful collaborations, as well as the challenges and opportunities in scaling up their manufacturing plant. Corey also shares insights into the growing demand for green chemistry chemistry and the need for more industry experience within the startup space. Join Victoria and Corey as they explore the exciting world of renewable chemicals and the quest for a more sustainable future.Please subscribe to The Chemical Show on your favorite podcast player. And, visit www.thechemicalshow.com to subscribe to our email list and get additional insights.

While 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 using to respond to challenging market conditionsJoin Victoria as she digs into the second quarter 2023 earnings reports, analyzing the challenges faced by chemical companies and searching for valuable insights. Victoria shares indicators for improvement on the horizon, the possibilities of a period of flat demand before a significant increase, as well as the expected inventory restocking.Please subscribe to The Chemical Show on your favorite podcast player. And, visit www.thechemicalshow.com to subscribe to our email list and get additional insights.Additional links:2Q23 Earnings Reports:Huntsman StepanEastmanShellBASFLanxessChemoursPhillips 66ExxonMobil

The 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 skills in chemical industry job candidatesHow global events are affecting executive searchTools for finding talent in today's job marketMost active sectors within the industry for talent development and movementWar on chemical industry talent in Europe and AsiaHiring outlook for 2023 and 2024Victoria and Stephen acknowledge that the talent pool in the chemical industry, especially in petrochemicals, is not as diverse and that diversity and inclusion within the industry has a long way to go. Victoria and Stephen discuss the importance of human interaction, AI’s impact on executive search, and the age of remote work.Please subscribe to The Chemical Show on your favorite podcast player. And, visit www.thechemicalshow.com to subscribe to our email list and get additional insights.

From 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 meet ESG and Sustainability Standards through bio-packaging2. Commercializing Sustainable Products 3. Identifying Partnerships at different points in the value chain4. Establishing internal processes in a startup business 5. Bioplastics vs. cost6. Finding customer and Consumer value in sustainable productsVictoria and Scott also discuss the challenges associated with consumer demand for sustainable products, lack of infrastructure for composting, and the cost of replacing widely used plastics. Sharing how CJ navigates challenges with specialty industrial marketing, Scott discusses their work in sustainability, involving government affairs, collaboration with internal food brands, and attending trade shows. Join us on this episode of The Chemical Show as we explore CJ's exciting journey in the chemical industry, their commitment to sustainability, and their vision for a more environmentally-friendly future.Please subscribe to The Chemical Show on your favorite podcast player. And, visit www.thechemicalshow.com to subscribe to our email list and get additional insights.

Digitization and supply chain go hand-in-hand. In this episode of The Chemical Show, host Victoria Meyer welcomes Arun Samuga, Chief Innovation Officer at Elemica to expand on the development of new digital products and solutions in the area of supply chain innovation. Arun emphasizes the importance of educating potential clients about the advantages of embarking on a digital journey while exploring the various benefits of digitization, including reducing working capital, increasing cash on hand, investing in customer experience and sustainability, and expanding sales channels. Learn more about the following in this episode:Evolution of chemical process companiesHow business system connectivity supports the supply chainWhy companies are mix-and-matching digital and automation solutions Digitization in smaller companiesElemica’s Multichannel StrategyThe democratization of AI Victoria and Arun discuss Elemica’s digital solutions, which impact various business functions from fulfillment to procurement to customer service. Arun discusses Elemica’s move towards providing customized services to cater to the unique needs of different enterprises.Please subscribe to The Chemical Show on your favorite podcast player. And, visit www.thechemicalshow.com to subscribe to our email list and get additional insights.

Wondering how to get better results from your strategy?In this episode of The Chemical Show, host Victoria Meyer explores the topic of strategy execution and the common pitfalls organizations face. Victoria discusses the necessity of involving the entire organization in the strategy process to ensure understanding and alignment. Citing a recent study conducted by Harvard Business Review, Victoria highlights the significant gap between executives' perception of strategic alignment and employees' actual understanding. Learn more about the following in this episode:Challenges in Vision and Strategy Development Risks of Top Down StrategyGap in Executive and Employee Strategic Alignment Understanding4 Approaches to Overcoming the Strategy DisconnectWhy Employee Engagement is Critical to Strategy DevelopmentVictoria emphasizes the importance of engaging employees in the strategy setting process in order to drive buy-in and shared context. Discussing the risks of not getting the vision and strategy right, especially in the ever-changing post-pandemic world, Victoria offers compelling approaches to engaging employees and overcoming strategy disconnect. Please subscribe to The Chemical Show on your favorite podcast player. And, visit www.thechemicalshow.com to subscribe to our email list and get additional insights.Additional links:Harvard Business Review: Is Your Company as Strategically Aligned as You Think It Is?

In this episode of The Chemical Show, host Victoria Meyer invites George L. Vann, president of EcoServices, which is a part of Ecovyst to chat about his unique career path - from graduating with a mechanical engineering degree, to serving in the military, to various roles in the chemical industry. George emphasizes the importance of long-term relationships with customers and the need for long-term contracts to establish trust and dependability. He also shares insights into fundamental factors across businesses, including growth, providing value to customers, and attracting and retaining talent.Learn more about the following in this episode:1. Applying Leadership skills US Army to Business2. Business mindset: big vs. small companies3. Weathering economic storms in business4. Impact of electrification on sulfur business5. Circularity and sustainability in mature industries 6. The importance of talent and skilled tradesDrawing upon his military background, George discusses the leadership skills he acquired, emphasizing the importance of working with people, considering different viewpoints, making informed decisions, and taking accountability. Victoria and George also explore how creating partnerships with educational institutions help to develop internship and trainee programs, which can help create a pipeline of qualified individuals for vocational technical positions. Lastly, George highlights the need for smaller companies like Ecovyst to create unique value propositions to attract talent.Please subscribe to The Chemical Show on your favorite podcast player. And, visit www.thechemicalshow.com to subscribe to our email list and get additional insights.

Your customers are the key to strategic success.In this episode of The Chemical Show, host Victoria Meyer delves into the importance of engaging customers early on to de-risk business strategy. Victoria shares valuable insights and strategies for effectively engaging customers and stakeholders during key business changes and decisions. Discussing the benefits of introducing a new product or service and involving customers early in the development process, Victoria explores the barriers and fears that may prevent business leaders from seeking customer feedback and provides strategies to overcome them. Learn more about the following in this episode:Why early Customer and Stakeholder Engagement mattersManaging Risk - a key leadership roleEngaging your customers to build ambassadors Time is money: Ask the right questions early, to increase success laterHow to engage your customersUsing real-life examples from industry leaders like Shell and Ford Motor Company, Victoria emphasizes the need for customer and stakeholder engagement to inform decisions, test assumptions, and create successful strategies. Join Victoria for this insightful episode to learn how proactive customer engagement can help de-risk your business and build strong relationships with your target market.Please subscribe to The Chemical Show on your favorite podcast player. And, visit www.thechemicalshow.com to subscribe to our email list and get additional insights.Additional links:Focus: The manufacturing backlash: No factory in my backyardData-Based Insights Into The Customer Experience With Kevin HuntsmanShell ChemicalsFord Motor Company

In this episode of The Chemical Show, host Victoria Meyer talks with Karen Tkaczyk, director of Life Sciences Regulated and Enterprise Solutions at MasterWord to share more about her unique combination of industrial and service experience as she helps chemical, energy, and life science companies do business globally with minimal risk. Victoria and Karen discuss the importance of technical expertise in language translation services, talent shortages influenced by the pandemic, the impact of geopolitical events on translation services, and the importance of breaking through language barriers in business relationships.Learn more about the following in this episode:The challenge of languages in Chemical and Material Science industryThe role of translation in global businessesHow the pandemic accelerated AI and TechnologyThe Talent supply chain Local language is critical to the Customer ExperienceTranslation services as a risk mitigation toolTranslation and language services play a crucial role in bridging communication gaps in a globalized world. From helping businesses expand internationally, to ensuring safety compliance and protecting intellectual property, it's a fascinating and ever-evolving field. Join us this week to learn more!Please subscribe to The Chemical Show on your favorite podcast player. And, visit www.thechemicalshow.com to subscribe to our email list and get additional insights.

Do you treat your B2B customers the same or personalize your engagement and their experience?In this episode of The Chemical Show, host Victoria Meyer focuses on segmentation and personalization. B2B companies in the chemical industry often focus on organizational factors when segmenting their market. However, limited use of segmentation can leave both parties feeling unheard. By prioritizing customer relationships and serving them appropriately, companies can address specific needs in a unique and important manner. Victoria highlights the need for businesses to shift towards a more structured and customer-centric approach, using buyer personas to understand their customers' roles, drivers, and interests. Learn more about the following in this episode:The importance of using both Personalization and Segmentation with B2B customersWhy Personalization is critical to creating value in B2B chemicalsFour scenarios in applying segmentation and personalization and their impactSupplier-centricity vs. Customer-centricityDiscussing the challenges companies face in implementing personalization and the impact it can have on improving the customer experience, Victoria provides valuable insights into the importance of segmentation and personalization in creating business value and improving customer relationships. Join us this week as Victoria takes a deep dive into customer segmentation and its impact!Please subscribe to The Chemical Show on your favorite podcast player. And, visit www.thechemicalshow.com to subscribe to our email list and get additional insights.

American Fuel and Petrochemical Manufacturers (AFPM) to chat about his organization's efforts towards a circular economy and rail safety. Victoria and Chet discuss the importance of recycling and innovation, the challenges of reducing plastic waste, rail safety, the dual challenge of producing energy while maintaining sustainability, and the immense value and benefits of plastics.Learn more about the following in this episode: AFPM's top priorities Storytelling in the chemical industry UN Plastics Treaty Education and Awareness of Advanced Recycling The EPA's proposed draft strategy to prevent plastic pollution Achieving a circular economy Challenges with Rail TransportationChet emphasizes the importance of approaching plastics in a nuanced and balanced way, neither treating them as inherently good nor bad, but recognizing their essential role in modern life. Victoria and Chet also discuss the benefits of advanced recycling, which creates "pure feedstock" that can be reused in new products. Thompson expresses his optimism for progress within Congress to enhance public safety for rail and promote competition in the industry.Please subscribe to The Chemical Show on your favorite podcast player. And, visit www.thechemicalshow.com to subscribe to our email list and get additional insights.AFPM sustainability report: https://afpm.org/data-reports/publications/sustainability-reportAFPM: https://afpm.org/Progress: https://wemakeprogress.org/Empower: https://empower.afpm.org/

On this episode of The Chemical Show, host Victoria Meyer is joined by Peter Hanik, President and Founder of Pretium Innovation. Victoria and Pete discuss the importance of innovation in the chemical industry, as well as strategies for problem-solving and understanding customer needs. Learn more about the following in this episode:Innovation in the chemical industryCrafting a long-term career in chemicals "Type Three" Problems and Solutions Adapting to cultural differences in a global career Sharing his 50+ years experience in the chemical industry, Pete offers valuable insights into problem-solving and innovation in the chemical industry, as well as strategies for understanding and addressing customer needs in a sustainable way.Please subscribe to The Chemical Show on your favorite podcast player. And, visit www.thechemicalshow.com to subscribe to our email list and get additional insights.Check out Peter Hanik’s book, Type 3 Solutions: Problem Solving for Competitive Advantage: https://amzn.to/440uirc

Humans are master storytellers and as business leaders, we should harness the power of storytelling.In this episode of The Chemical Show, host Victoria Meyer explores why storytelling is critical for businesses to control the narrative about their performance, products, and value creation. Victoria shares how business storytelling involves interpreting facts and creating emotional connections as well as what makes a good story - starting with the end in mind, choosing the right information and time frame, using visual supports, choosing strong words, making it personal, and relatable. Topics discussed in this week’s episode:The case for storytelling in businessWhy owning the narrative is criticalInsights from Harvard Business School3 tips for compelling business storiesCase study on the power of the right storyTune in to learn more on this episode of The Chemical Show!Like this episode? Remember to share, follow, and leave a rating or review.For more insights and information, check out www.thechemicalshow.com

In this episode of The Chemical Show, host Victoria Meyer interviews Kevin Yttre, Managing Director at Grace Matthews, an investment bank that exclusively focuses on the chemicals and materials industries, assisting with mergers, acquisitions, and capital raises. Kevin shares valuable insights about the world of M&A, explaining M&A strategies, the role of ESG credentials, recent slowdowns in the industry, success factors in transactions, and much more.Topics you can expect to learn more about in this episode:The Role of Investment Banking in M&AInfluence of current economic environment on M&A Activity in Chemicals and MaterialsHistorical and current multiples in chemicals M&AM&A strategies for chemicals and materials companiesAdvice for buyers and sellers todayThe role of Sustainability and ESG in transactions todayJoin Victoria and Kevin as they delve into the world of M&A transactions and discover the critical factors to consider when buying or selling a business in the chemicals and materials industry.Please subscribe to The Chemical Show on your favorite podcast player. And, visit www.thechemicalshow.com to subscribe to our email list and get additional insights.Check out Grace Matthew’s latest M&A newsletter including insights on transaction multiples.

"The last experience that your customer has with you and your brand, usually delivery from a logistics provider, defines their perception of your business and your company." – Victoria Meyer, President, Progressio GlobalIn this episode of The Chemical Show, host Victoria Meyer discusses the importance of managing your company’s Customer Experience (CX) through third-party service providers. She emphasizes the importance of defining key communication roles, channels, and expectations to ensure a seamless and positive customer experience, especially in a business-to-business (B2B) space. Customer Experience is both end-to-end and omni-channel and is influenced not just by the activities of your own company, but also the business partners your company engages. This episode touches on the role of logistics companies in this process, highlighting the need for transparency and a clearly defined CX playbook to meet customer expectations, regardless of the service provider used.Download the B2B Customer Experience Best Practices guide Like this episode? Remember to share, follow, and leave a rating or review.For more insights and information, check out www.thechemicalshow.com

"It's not a matter of if a company is going to adopt technology transportation management system, but more of when? When are they going to do that? Because you have to if you want to improve anything within your company, it starts with having access to the data and being able see it from what it is." - Jennifer Braun, VP Trinity LogisticsOn this episode of The Chemical Show, host Victoria Meyer speaks with Jennifer Braun, VP of Trinity Logistics, about navigating the dynamics of the chemical shipping industry. They discuss Trinity's efforts to combat the talent gap through onboarding and communication programs, separate recruiting and reward departments, and advanced technology-driven tools. They also cover Trinity's focus on customer-centricity and adapting to their needs, as well as its stability during the industry's current rebalancing period. Other highlights include Trinity's extensive sustainability efforts and its ongoing expansion and leadership program. Tune in to hear expert insights and predictions on the future of the chemical shipping industry.Like this episode? Remember to share, follow, and leave a rating or review.For more insights and information, check out www.thechemicalshow.com

“Understanding your value, driving value, and demonstrating it creates opportunity and creates growth, especially in times of market softness." - Victoria MeyerOn this episode of The Chemical Show, host Victoria Meyer discusses the importance of getting back to basics and understanding a company's unique value in order to thrive during market softness. She highlights the story of a materials company that successfully increase sales by emphasizing their value in use to customers. She also discusses the importance of regularly revisiting marketing strategies and market segmentation to adapt to changing market dynamics. Listen in to this episode to learn about:Diving deeper to understand value to your customersThe importance of demonstrating value to customersCustomer and market segmentation – why you need to revisit it quarterlyConsidering alternatives including make-v-buy decisions. This episode serves as a helpful guide for businesses looking to navigate market softness and build resilience by focusing on their unique value and understanding the needs of their customers. For more insights, visit www.thechemicalshow.com.Have a question or topic you’d like addressed? DM Victoria (King) Meyer or The Chemical Show podcast on LinkedIn.

"People didn't think about the demographics enough. They didn't think about the role of real estate and debt. And they built capacity on the assumption of, say, 6% or 7% consistent growth, which we are unlikely to experience in the future." – John Richardson, Senior Consultant, ICISIn this episode of The Chemical Show, host Victoria Meyer and guest John Richardson of ICIS discuss China's aging demographic and the future of the chemical industry. They delve into China's projections for becoming a net exporter in polypropylene, limitations on becoming a net exporter in polyethylene, and the current oversupply and weak demand growth in HDPE.Topics covered include: - China's aging demographic and its impact on the future of the chemical industry- The growth in China's petrochemical capacity and its impact on supply and demand in the market- The factors influencing the chemical industry's margins and pricing, including fluctuations in energy costs- The impact of geopolitical factors on the industry, including concerns about energy costs in Europe- The impact of demographic changes on housing demand and local government spending in ChinaWhether you're in the industry or just curious about the global forces at play, this episode is essential listening.https://www.icis.com/asian-chemical-connections/2023/06/why-china-could-become-self-sufficient-in-hdpe/https://www.icis.com/asian-chemical-connections/2023/05/chinas-pp-industry-short-term-tactics-and-long-term-strategy/

'Customers are always going to say, oh, the reason that we don't do business with you is your price. That’s BS. Price is not the reason. It’s a good excuse. It’s your job to find the real reason."A question that has come up recently: “Why are we the last choice for a specific customer? They call us when they’re in crisis and we help them out. Then, nothing. How do we move to being a first-choice or regular supplier?”In this episode of The Chemical Show, host Victoria Meyer explores why some companies are the last-choice supplier for their target customers and provides specific tactics on how to become a first-choice supplier instead. She discusses the various factors that contribute to a company's status as a last-choice supplier, including timing, limited offerings, poor reputation, and corporate fit. By understanding their target customers' business and procurement strategy, fixing any issues in their offering, and demonstrating improvement and value, companies can become a first-choice supplier, rather than a last-choice one.Our Thursday episodes will address key questions from listeners and strategic or tactical topics of relevance to chemical industry leaders.Have a question that you’d like addressed on a future episode? Send Victoria a direct message on LinkedIn or Instagram. For more information, check out www.thechemicalshow.com

“There's a huge opportunity for B2B companies to enter podcasting. People get personally connected to you and your brand, and its a great opportunity for storytelling.”On this episode of The Chemical Show, host Victoria Meyer celebrates the podcast's 100th episode. And, in a role-reversal, is the interviewee instead of the interviewer.Today’s guest interviewer is Madeline Meyer, a summer intern at Progressio Global and computer science major at Texas State University. They discuss Victoria’s journey in the chemical industry, from working as a project engineer at Amoco to starting her own boutique consulting firm. They also explore the evolution and current and future state of the industry, including localization, sustainability, and the UN Plastic Treaty negotiations. Victoria highlights the value of personal connections through storytelling and previews her upcoming event, the Chemical Summit, launching in October 2023. Lastly, she announces that the podcast will be adding a second episode each week and will focus on business issues and her own expertise and perspective. Tune in to learn more about the chemical industry's transformation through the eyes of its leaders.Visit www.thechemicalshow.com.And visit www.thechemicalsummit.com to learn more and register.

AI is a tool. It's obviously a very powerful tool... And so I think there is value in having some kind of framework for helping evaluate these things and looking at allowing people to make wise choices." - Ethan MirskyIn this episode of The Chemical Show, we explore how NobleAI is revolutionizing the chemical industry by using science-based AI. As we learned, traditional AI approaches didn't work for this problem, so Noble's team focused on incorporating scientific laws, design constraints, and materials properties into a model that could provide relevant insights and understanding. Tune in as The Chemical Show welcomes Ethan Mirsky in this episode, who is the President of NobleAI, a company that focuses on accelerating product development with Science-Based AI. Ethan emphasizes the importance of customer data privacy, the benefits and potential negative effects of AI and algorithms, the importance of creating a framework to evaluate their use, and many more! Topics discussed this week:The problem with traditional AI approachesImportance of customer data privacyRole of AI in Science and EngineeringConcerns and need for frameworks with AICustomer data and expertise in the modeling processNonleAI updates and goalsThis is an exciting podcast episode to learn more about how science-based AI is changing the game in the chemical industry.Please subscribe to The Chemical Show on your favorite podcast player. And, visit www.thechemicalshow.com to subscribe to our email list and get additional insights.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!

On this episode of The Chemical Show, Victoria Meyer takes us through the world of business transformation and the key factors that lead to success. With a staggering 70% of transformations failing to meet their objectives, Victoria believes that a clear vision and a customer-centric approach are critical. She breaks down different lenses, including the "easy to do business with" lens, and how feedback from stakeholders should be considered. Furthermore, Victoria Meyer emphasizes the importance of empathy, as understanding the experiences and values of employees, customers, and counterparts can lead to a more successful transformation. With her years of experience leading and advising companies, Meyer offers a unique perspective on achieving targeted results in business transformation.Please subscribe to The Chemical Show on your favorite podcast player. And, visit www.thechemicalshow.com to subscribe to our email list and get additional insights.This is a great and interesting conversation, so tune in! Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!

“There are great entry points to talk about, to educate, to talk about where stuff is coming from and where it goes. That's what I'm really trying to do in the Column.” - Darius Mortazavi. Darius is the founder of The Column, an email newsletter that provides context and commentary on events in the industry at large—it’s an endeavor that he hopes will unite different sectors of the industry, and foster an online community. In this episode, Victoria and Darius talk about some invaluable insights into the chemical industry, the current trends through different mediums that many people use and have access to today, the importance of educating people who are interested in this space, and so much more!Topics discussed this week:The origin story of Darius MortazaviWhat made Darius interested in chemicals and led him to start The Column?Working in the industry versus what is expected based on educationThe inception of The ColumnThe current and future changes in the industryThe leverage of using social media and other online platforms Please subscribe to The Chemical Show on your favorite podcast player. And, visit www.thechemicalshow.com to subscribe to our email list and get additional insights.This is a great and interesting conversation, so tune in! Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!

In recent years, the demand for biotechnology in cleaning has been on the rise due to its effectiveness in providing eco-friendly and sustainable solutions to the cleaning industry. Biotechnology involves the use of biological agents or living organisms to create useful products and services, and in cleaning, it has shown significant potential in improving the efficiency and safety of cleaning processes. Victoria Meyer chats with Rashda Khan, Sr. Director of Product Innovation for Barentz, a member of the HI&I leadership team, and is responsible for support across the business, driving new product development, and innovation efforts. Topics discussed this week: Product innovation in the value chain now versus many years backIncreased demand for biotechnology in the cleaning industry Drivers that are moving us toward biotechnology in the cleaning worldEducation for the consumer, the customer, and the end userChallenges in commercializing and scaling in bio-based products and applicationsRashda’s role as Barentz influences the formulations, specifications, and applications of the new productsThe innovation process at Barentz Being empathetic to our customers and our consumersStriking a balance when having innovation opportunities, and an array of potential suppliersChallenges in innovation during and after the pandemicThis is a great and interesting conversation, so tune in! Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!

Adaptability is crucial in navigating today's unpredictable global economy, which can experience economic chaos through market volatility, political instability, natural disasters, or unexpected pandemics. In this week's episode, Karl Maier, author of Surfing Economic Chaos, shares his expertise on seizing opportunities amidst such chaos. With over 25 years of experience in managing and advising lower middle-market companies, Karl offers profit improvement workshops and CEO peer advisory roundtable groups.Topics discussed this week: Changes and trends in the industryMilitary prowess versus economic prowess and intellectual prowess to maintain competitivenessInternational Trade five-star model Energy as a global hot topic The shift in International Trade todayGlobal changes with the repatriation of manufacturing in various countries, and less reliance on importsEconomic chaos todayHow does the economic chaos affect the chemical companies?Understanding the current economic scenarios and putting strategies in place around themFocusing on the peak profits and opportunitiesJoin us in this episode as Karl and Victoria talk about the book Surfing Economic Chaos and the economic challenges and the current trends in the chemical industry today. Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!

Partnering for plastics circularity refers to the collaborative efforts of stakeholders across the plastics value chain to create a more sustainable and circular approach to plastic production, consumption, and disposal. With increasing concerns about plastic pollution and its impact on the environment, there is a growing need for companies, governments, and individuals to work together toward a circular economy that promotes the reuse, recycling, and responsible disposal of plastics. In this week’s podcast episode, Victoria interviews industry insiders Dave Andrew, Vice President of New Market Development with ExxonMobil, Bill Cooper, Sr. Vice President of Corporate Strategy and Development at Cyclyx, Gulay Serhatkulu Sr. Vice President of Performance Materials at BASF, North America, and Jeremy Wallach, Partner with McKinsey. Previously recorded at the AFPM IPC, Victoria and panelists discuss how they are partnering with consumer brands, recycling consortiums, and others in the plastic value chain, who are working to accelerate a more circular economy for plastics.Topics discussed in this week’s episode: Partnering for plastic circularityHas circularity changed the customer-supplier relationship? Various stakeholders in this journey of the chemical industryThe biggest hurdles in trying to build plastics circularity in the value chainCollaboration for the plastic value chainChallenges to increase recycling ratesThe demand for circular plastics The role of brands in helping expand the recycling activityCollaborating with other companies - is it a hindrance or is it a help?This is surely one of the most exciting episodes on The Chemical Show podcast that you shouldn’t miss. Tune in! Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!

An Employee Value Proposition is essentially the set of benefits and rewards that a company offers to its employees in exchange for their skills, knowledge, and experience. It's the total package of what an employee gets out of working for a particular company. So with that, in this week’s podcast episode, The Chemical Show welcomes Jaycie Bradshaw as the quest, who is Human Resources Director at Palmer Holland, Inc. Palmer Holland is an Employee-Owned organization in this Specialty Chemical industry that focuses on driving strategic partnerships, business results, and empowering their employees to be successful. Topics discussed this week: The reason why Jaycie got interested in HRWhat brought Jaycie to Palmer Holland?The significant change during the pandemic for Jaycie and the organizationThings that influence Jaycie to guide recruitment and onboarding of new employees in Palmer HollandThe practices integrated into the HR processes during post-pandemicCreating a strong employee value proposition to attract new people to join the organization ESOP defined and explained Keeping the balanced growth from business and employee perspectives with an uncertain economic futureLeveraging training and development to help people move beyond into more of a collaborative value-selling approachRecruiting millennials and Gen ZThe priority list of Jaycie and Palmer HollandTune in as Jaycie shares her human resources background, which is a bit of a different switch from what the podcast usually talks to people about. Victoria and Jaycie are also going to discuss some insights about people, employees, and all the things going on todayLove the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! The Chemical Show - The Chemical Show

In the last week of March, Victoria Meyer attended the American Fuel and Petrochemical Manufacturers or AFPM International Petrochemical Conference, which was held in San Antonio. So in this week's episode, she will share her insights and reflections from that conference. There were thousands of attendees and people were there for meetings with business partners, suppliers, customers, and many other activities going on at that event. Topics discussed this week: The chemical industry is in the process of setting a new equilibriumThe need to tell your own story and to tell the industry storyBe an advocate for the industryThe demand decline in the chemical industryOptimism both for 2023 and for the long termGlobal markets and local impacts Collaboration - we're all in this togetherTune in! Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! The Chemical Show - The Chemical Show

The chemical industry plays a crucial role in modern society. The ability to leverage innovation, the ability to meet a customer's needs, the ability to go ahead and leverage at a global scale, and the capabilities to meet the world's needs are all very prominent today and vital to industrial gases and chemicals. In this podcast episode, Victoria Meyer speaks with Michael J. Graff, Chairman and CEO of American Air Liquide Holdings and EVP of the Air Liquide Group. Mike shares leadership, learnings and insights from more than 30 years in the energy, chemicals, and gas industries. Topics discussed this week: Mike’s origin story and how it has influenced his life and career6 key themes in the evolution of the chemical industry in the past 30 yearsThe importance of Innovation The role of Hydrogen in sustainability and Net ZeroLeveraging partnerships and coalitions for a common goalMeeting the consumers’ needs around the worldThe continued importance of engineering educationThis was an amazing and insightful interview. Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!

Sustainability and innovation are transforming the chemical industry. Central to that transformation is leveraging customer and consumer insights, to ensure that new, innovative products are meeting customer needs.In this week’s podcast episode, I speak with Juliana Pantalena, who is the Marketing Head of Surfactants for CEPSA Química based in Madrid. She's brings a global perspective, having working in Brazil, US and Spain. And, a keen focus on customer experience and driving value in established markets with new products. Topics discussed this week: Juliana’s origin story and what drives her interest in chemicals and surfactantsHow sustainability and carbon reduction drives CEPSA ChemicalsCEPSA’s partnership with Unilever on NextLABHow CEPSA looks at consumer needs to drive product innovationA prioritization process for innovationCritical factors for Customer ExperienceThe role of digitization in the companyIncreasing the presence of women in leadership in the chemical industryThis is an exciting episode, so tune in as Victoria and Juliana talk about how CEPSA uses customer insights to drive transformation and many other lively topics around the chemical industry. Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!

The increasing awareness of environmental issues and the need for sustainable development has led to a growing interest in bio-based chemicals. Finding new applications for these chemicals is becoming increasingly important as we seek to replace traditional petroleum-based products with more environmentally friendly alternatives.In this podcast episode, we have the opportunity of speaking with Anton Zhloba, who's an Application Technology Center Leader with Jungbunzlauer. His focus is developing applications and exploring new business opportunities where JBL's sustainable ingredients can make a difference. Over his career, he's worked in a variety of industries including food and beverage, pharma, biotech, and cosmetics in both Europe and the US. Topics discussed this week: The origin story of Anton Zhloba and how he got interested in chemistry and the chemical industry;The reasons that brought Anton to Jungbunzlauer;The impact of sustainability and bio-based chemicals;JBL’s approach to global growth;The importance of customer-centric application development for Jungbunzlauer;And so much more! So tune in as Victoria and Anton share valuable facts and interesting pieces of information about finding new applications for bio-based chemicals. Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! The Chemical Show - The Chemical Show

An inclusive culture is one that celebrates and embraces the uniqueness and differences of everyone. There is evidence that companies or organizations with an inclusive culture tend to have people who are highly motivated, engaged, and productive at whatever they do. Listen to this week’s podcast episode as Victoria Meyer and Dr. Lauran Star, who is known for transforming leadership and organizational culture, talk about building an inclusive culture and what benefits it can give to all people in a company or organization and even to the quality of the working environment they’re in. Here are the interesting topics discussed this week:The origin story of Dr. Lauran Star and the reason why she got interested in DE&I and specifically inclusionThe experiences and lessons that Dr. Lauran learned from joining the militaryEquity and equality in the society Focusing on evidence-based DE&I How to grow inclusion in the companiesThe difference between diversity and inclusion in a corporate environmentWhat's the business case for inclusion? Why is it not the business case for diversity?How do companies measure inclusion and know if they're doing it right or not? Building your leadership bench strength in your industryDon’t miss this exciting podcast episode. Tune in! Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! The Chemical Show - The Chemical Show

Excellence is a quality that is highly valued and sought after in both personal and professional settings. As a company owner, being excellent can lead to increased customer satisfaction, improved employee morale and productivity, and ultimately, increased profits. For individuals, striving for excellence can lead to personal growth and development, as well as increased satisfaction and fulfillment in life.At its core, excellence is about doing your best in everything you do, whether it's in your personal life or in the workplace. It's about setting high standards for yourself and pushing yourself to achieve them. This requires discipline, dedication, and a willingness to put in the hard work necessary to achieve your goals. When you strive for excellence as a company owner, you set the tone for your employees and create a culture of high performance. This can lead to increased productivity, improved customer satisfaction, and a stronger reputation for your company. Customers are more likely to return to a company that consistently delivers high-quality products or services, and employees are more likely to stay with a company that values excellence and provides opportunities for personal and professional growth.In today's competitive world, especially in the chemical industry, excellence is more important than ever. To stand out in your field, you need to demonstrate that you are committed to delivering high-quality work and achieving your goals. By striving for excellence every day, you can create a life of success, fulfillment, and purpose.With that, listen to Victoria and Sam Smolik as they talk about the importance of excellence in detail as well as the value of what Sam’s book can give to the readers. Here are the interesting topics discussed this week:The origin story of Sam Smolik before he got involved in the chemical industryThe most powerful lessons Sam learned throughout his journeyTalking about Sam’s book “The Daily Pursuit of Excellence”What is Sam’s formula for operational excellence? The importance of having an established and effective system in the business or company’s processes and proceduresDifferent approaches to business operations into operational excellence of some leading companiesTune in to learn more! Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! The Chemical Show - The Chemical Show