The Chemical Show: Executive Interviews on Leadership, Sustainability, Supply Chain, Digitization, Customer Centricity and more and key trends

"If you want your target audience to remember your message the next day, tell a story. " As you're heading to industry events over the next couple week's: NYSCC Suppliers' Day, American Coatings Show, NPE The Plastics Show, consider the power of storytelling. Exploring the essential elements of business storytelling, host Victoria Meyer demonstrates that it's about more than recounting events—it's about strategically crafting and managing the narrative to connect emotionally with the audience and achieve desired business outcomes. This week on The Chemical Show, Victoria details two main types of stories companies need to master: the brand story and the results story. Each plays a vital role in business development and strategy execution. This week’s discussion is supported by compelling examples, including a memorable story from a CPChem executive, illustrating how effective storytelling can convey complex information and enhance stakeholder engagement. Take Action: Share Your Best Business Storytelling Example Here (link to SpeakPipe) Topics discussed in this week’s episode: Harvard Business School ***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 Wondering how we produce our podcast? https://transistor.fm/?via=victoriahttps://get.castmagic.io/ean5etivmzi1https://get.descript.com/j0hyfup4gm0t

In today's challenging business landscape, especially within the volatile chemical industry, resilience is key. Host Victoria Meyer outlines three vital strategies in navigating chemical market uncertainty this week on The Chemical Show: commercial discipline, customer centricity, and market diversification. Victoria emphasizes the importance of commercial discipline, advocating for strategic profitability alignment and efficiency enhancement through automation. Customer centricity is highlighted as a cornerstone for resilience, focusing on deepening connections with valuable customers to weather market fluctuations. Victoria discusses market diversification as a proactive strategy, balancing portfolios to shield against economic tremors and meet sustainability goals. Learn more about the following: ***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

Navigating the talent landscape of the chemical industry can be as complex and nuanced as the industry itself. This week, Victoria Meyer is joined by Jeff Bennett from Boaz Partners, a recruiter specializing in senior leadership placements within multiple sectors such as fragrances, cosmetics, and plastics. Victoria and Jeff discuss the strategies for succession planning, the art of retaining top talent, and the ever-evolving market challenges and opportunities. Additionally, Victoria and Jeff also address the changing norms of workplace environments, the impact of remote work on company culture, and the "gray tsunami"—an exodus of senior expertise leading to significant talent gaps. Join Victoria and Jeff as they discuss the following: Killer Quote: "There are three types of people that you want to have in your back pocket. A good doctor, a good lawyer, and a good recruiter." - Jeff Bennett ***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

Navigating through the maze of the chemical industry's future, Victoria Meyer explores the biggest industry event of the year thus far: AFPM IPC 2024. With the highest attendance since pre-COVID times, robust discussions, and critical networking, Victoria unpacks the cautious optimism permeating the sector, underlining a year that started strong despite evident challenges. She dives into the pressing themes identified at the conference: the focused lens on supply chain complexities post unexpected incidents, the drive for global policy harmonization to foster balanced markets, and the imperative of ethical leadership influencing industry directions. The Chemical Show delves deep into the evolving narratives from the AFPM IPC 2024 and surfaces with insights on the need for resilient supply chains, calls for collaborative and rational policy-making, and the unwavering request for ethical stewardship in management. As Victoria also announces the needful details about The Chemical Summit, she reflects on how the conference's outcomes are shaping actions and expectations for the remainder of the year. In a world where industry stability is paramount, these insights are crucial for every professional vested in the strategic future of chemicals. Register TODAY for The Chemical Summit. Held on October 8-9, 2024 in Spring, Texas. This will be a SOLD OUT event! https://thechemicalsummit.com/

Curious about the major strategic issues facing all aspects of the petrochemical industry? Learn more about what leading global experts and industry executives are discussing in terms of critical issues impacting the chemical market from the 2024 World Petrochemical Conference with host Victoria Meyer. With over 1500 attendees from 53 countries, representing 550 companies, conference topics ranged from decarbonization, to supply chain resilience, to the impact of geopolitical challenges on the shipping industry. Victoria is joined by industry experts Tony Potter and Rahul Kapoor from S&P Global on this week’s episode of The Chemical Show to highlight the major takeaways from the WPC 2024. Through insightful discussions, Victoria and her guests explore the role of chemicals in the energy transition, regionalization of supply chains, and the progression towards sustainable technologies, offering valuable insights and engaging perspectives for professionals in the chemical and shipping industries. Join us this week as Victoria, Tony and Rahul discuss the following: ***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 Wondering how we produce our podcast? https://transistor.fm/?via=victoriahttps://get.castmagic.io/ean5etivmzi1 We use Descript to edit and transcribe each podcast episode. Follow this link to learn more: https://get.descript.com/j0hyfup4gm0t

Navigating the complexities of sustainability in the chemical industry requires partnerships, open communication, patience, and a positive, collective focus. Karin Krchnak, an environmental lawyer by training and the Managing Director of Sustainability at the American Chemistry Council (ACC) joins host Victoria Meyer to talk about the strides being made towards a greener future and the synergy between climate goals and water stewardship. Victoria and Karin discuss the innovations shaping the chemical industry, the rise of sustainability roles, and share personal tales of mentorship and career evolution. Learn more about the following this week: Killer quote: "Collaboration is essential; whether we're talking about climate change, water stewardship, or innovation in the chemical industry, we need to leave egos at the door, practice patience, and maintain open communication for a sustainable future." - Karin Krchnak ***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 Wondering how we produce our podcast? https://transistor.fm/?via=victoriahttps://get.castmagic.io/ean5etivmzi1https://get.descript.com/j0hyfup4gm0t

Reflecting on what sparked their interest in chemistry and led them to a career in the chemical industry, Chemical Educational Foundation (CEF) board members, Joyce Marshall Johnson of Univar Solutions, Rene Whigham of Olin Corporation, and Jennifer Jewson of LyondellBasell, join host Victoria Meyer to discuss their diverse journeys into the chemical industry, the importance of engaging students early in STEM fields, and the impact of CEF's "You Be the Chemist Challenge." Highlighting the significance of mentorship, fosters an insightful conversation about diversifying the chemical workforce, and emphasizes the crucial role of early education in inspiring future generations to pursue careers in chemistry and STEM. ** We invite you to join the 20th Annual You Be The Chemical Celebration on June 9 & 10 in Houston, Texas. Learn more and purchase your tickets here: CEF You Be The Chemist ** Listen to this episode to find out: Killer quote: "Tomorrow's workforce is incredibly important now, more than ever. We have to invest in tomorrow's workforce. We won't be successful without it." - Jennifer Jewson ***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 Wondering how we produce our podcast? https://transistor.fm/?via=victoriahttps://get.castmagic.io/ean5etivmzi1https://get.descript.com/j0hyfup4gm0t

Discover how artificial intelligence is revolutionizing the chemical industry as Ned Weintraub, Chief Revenue Officer at NobleAI, joins host Victoria Meyer on The Chemical Show to delve into the unique challenges and transformative opportunities AI presents. NobleAI’s commitment to harnessing AI for problem-solving and data-driven innovation could be the key to unlocking new levels of productivity and sustainability in the field. Victoria and Ned explore the pivotal role of science-based AI in accelerating product development, tackling the complex landscape of data management, and the critical importance of data privacy within this high-stakes domain. This episode offers invaluable insights for industry professionals looking to stay ahead of the curve in an ever-evolving landscape where science meets AI innovation. Find out more about these topics: Drivers and challenges of innovation in the chemical industry Killer Quote: "By integrating scientific principles directly into our AI models, we're not just analyzing data – we’re creating a synergy between machine learning and material science that accelerates innovation, reduces risk, and ultimately helps us make smarter, faster decisions in product development. This isn't just data science; it's a new frontier for the scientific community." - Ned Weintraub, Chief Revenue Officer at NobleAI***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 Wondering how we produce our podcast? https://transistor.fm/?via=victoriahttps://get.castmagic.io/ean5etivmzi1

Exploring strategies that foster a culture of success for women in the chemical industry, host Victoria Meyer shares insights from previous guests on The Chemical Show. Victoria explores women’s perspectives on business leadership and culture in the chemical industry. In this episode, Victoria features discussions on practical strategies for building diversity, such as focusing on inclusion, establishing early connections with universities, and creating mentorship programs. Emphasizing the importance of recognizing and leveraging the unique skills of individuals, Victoria shares more about how to promote empathy in the innovation process, and create a workplace culture that supports collaboration and customer satisfaction. The diverse experiences and insights shared by the speakers provide valuable perspectives on shaping a successful and inclusive future for women in the 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 https://www.thechemicalshow.com Additional Links: 68. On Creating a Unique Culture, Digital Transformation, and Sustainability in the Chemical Industry with Jennifer McIntyre and Kelly Gilroy, Univar Solutions 75. How AdvanSix Is Winning The Market With Sarah Waller 88. Building an Inclusive Culture with Dr. Lauran Star 90. How CEPSA Uses Customer Insights Drive Transformation with Juliana Pantalena 93. Creating a Robust Employee Value Proposition at Palmer Holland with Jaycie Bradshaw 96. Increasing Demand of Biotechnology in Cleaning with Rashda Khan of Barentz 111. Mitigating Risk in Chemicals Through Language Translation with Karen Tkaczyk Wondering how we produce our podcast? https://transistor.fm/?via=victoriahttps://get.castmagic.io/ean5etivmzi1

Navigating the tumultuous waters of shipping logistics in the Red Sea and Panama Canal has never been more critical for the chemical industry. Join host Victoria Meyer as she interviews Farid Tahvildari, Managing Director at NUCO Logistics, who shares his wealth of experience and insights into the impact of current events on global shipping. From the challenges of increased shipping times due to geopolitical tensions in the Red Sea to the decreased transit availability through the Panama Canal, Farid provides valuable recommendations for businesses, highlighting the importance of adaptability and strategic planning. With rising imports and the ongoing struggle of shortages in equipment, this episode of The Chemical Show offers a timely and comprehensive look at the shipping challenges that lie ahead for the industry. Learn more about the issues affecting the transportation of chemical products as Victoria and Farid discuss the following: Killer Quote: "Plan accordingly, because everything is gonna take much longer than we are used to from last year... everything's tight. So buckle up." - Farid Tahvildari ***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 Additional Links: Ep : How NUCO Logistics Pivoted During The Pandemic With Noushin Shamsili Ep : Innovative Logistic Solutions With Noushin Shamsili Of NUCO Logistics PortWatch - Great resource for tracking shipping activity through Panama Canal Wondering how we produce our podcast? https://transistor.fm/?via=victoriahttps://get.castmagic.io/ean5etivmzi1

Explore the dynamic landscape of digital transformation in the chemical industry with Pam Walker, the Director and General Manager of Data Intelligence, and Insights at UL Solutions, as she shares insights and strategies with host Victoria Meyer on The Chemical Show. In this episode, Pam discusses the evolution of digital solutions in the chemical industry, drawing from her 20 years of experience and leadership in the field. From the challenges of digitization to the pivotal role of data quality and trusted partners in driving successful digital strategies, Pam offers valuable insights to help companies navigate the complexities of embracing digital technologies. Victoria and Pam discuss the importance of strategic alignment and adoption in the industry and the challenges that hold companies back from realizing their digital potential. Join the conversation to gain perspectives on the unmet needs in digitization, the critical role of change management, and the exciting prospects for the chemical industry's digital future. Join Victoria and Pam as they discuss: Killer Quote: "Dig the well before you're thirsty.” - Pam Walker ***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 Wondering how we produce our podcast? https://transistor.fm/?via=victoriahttps://get.castmagic.io/ean5etivmzi1https://www.descript.com/?lmref=DdZ2MA

Curious about the latest developments and trends in the surfactants and cleaning industry? Learn more about the key themes discussed at the 2024 American Cleaning Institute (ACI) annual meeting and understand their implications for your business with host Victoria Meyer. With over 1300 attendees from the cleaning industry, the event emphasized the importance of driving innovation and transformation in the industry. Victoria dives into the impact of supply chain, the integration of AI, the shift towards market-centric business transformation, the continuation of green initiatives, and the challenges posed by tightening regulations. This week’s episode of The Chemical Show highlights the major takeaways from the 2024 ACI annual meeting, providing valuable insights for professionals in the chemical and cleaning industry. From the resurgence of formulation innovation to the increasing focus on bio-based products and the impact of tightening regulations, Victoria’'s summary offers a comprehensive overview of the industry's current landscape, presenting opportunities and challenges that lie ahead for industry professionals. Join Victoria as she elaborates on the following topics: Killer Quote: "Companies are really considering what their next formulation is and getting more innovative with those products and those innovations." - Victoria Meyer Additional Links: Episode 99: Using AI to Accelerate Product Innovations & Sustainability with Ethan Mirsky Download: Best Practices on Using AI in Your Business ***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 Wondering how we produce our podcast? https://transistor.fm/?via=victoriahttps://get.castmagic.io/ean5etivmzi1https://www.descript.com/?lmref=DdZ2MA

Navigating the momentum of sustainable technology in the chemical industry, Paul Whittleston, President of Advanced Materials and Catalysts at Ecovyst, joins host Victoria Meyer on The Chemical Show to explore the company's journey in sustainability, international industry trends, and lessons in career development. Sharing insights from a significant career in the chemicals industry, Paul delves into career progression, the company's rebrand, and its commitment to sustainability. With a focus on the emergence of bio-based and renewable technologies, Victoria and Paul discuss challenges in recycling plastic waste, innovative catalyst technologies, and the significance of embracing change and seizing opportunities for sustainable growth, emphasizing the role of mentorship, communication, and culture in shaping successful careers and companies. Join Victoria and Paul as they discuss the following topics: Killer Quote: "Success in the chemical industry is driven by the success of our customers and partners. Understanding their needs is crucial, and balancing profitable growth today with sustainable growth for the future is the real challenge." - Paul Whittleston ***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 Wondering how we produce our podcast? https://get.castmagic.io/ean5etivmzi1https://www.descript.com/?lmref=DdZ2MA

Driven by both consumer demand and government policies, the shift towards sustainability in the chemical industry is creating a landscape ripe for innovation and growth. Eric Bober, VP at NexantECA joins host Victoria Meyer on The Chemical Show this week to explore the world of sustainable chemicals, the evolution of the chemical industry, the challenges and opportunities of sustainable technologies, and the global shift towards eco-friendly products. Victoria and Eric discuss the concept of "colorful technologies," such as green and blue products, and their viability in the market. With a focus on sustainability, they examined the challenges and opportunities for companies in adopting more environmentally friendly practices, emphasizing the importance of scalable, innovative technologies in the journey towards a more sustainable future. Join Victoria and Eric as they offer insights into the following: Killer Quote: "In a sense, the market is looking for revolutionary results, but it really takes an evolutionary approach." - Eric BoberFun fact: Eric was introduced to The Chemical Show and Victoria by his younger brother, Scott Bober, who was a guest on Episode 116. Listen to his episode here: Challenges and Opportunities in Sustainable Industrial Marketing ***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 Wondering how we produce our podcast? https://get.castmagic.io/ean5etivmzi1https://www.descript.com/?lmref=DdZ2MA

Recorded from a livestream of The Chemical Show, host Victoria Meyer interviews Steve Lewandowski, VP of Olefins for Chemical Market Analytics by OPIS, a Dow Jones Company. Victoria and Steve discuss the complex outlook for the 2024 chemical market, exploring challenges and strategies present in the petrochemical industry. The discussion reflects on the uncertainties of the current economic and geopolitical climate and its significant impact on regional and global chemical markets. Steve highlights the oversupply in the industry, regional strategies for export and domestic growth, and the complexities involved in managing market conditions amidst shifting economic challenges. The episode provides insights into cost competitiveness, sustainability practices, and the hurdles faced by the chemical industry in response to government regulations, helping to bring understanding to the intricate dynamics of the chemical market in the coming year. Join Victoria and Steve to learn more about the following: Killer Quote: “The challenge ahead is not just to navigate the market's fog, but it's also about steering the industry towards a sustainable future, balancing cost competitiveness with the imperative of reducing our carbon footprint.” - 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 Wondering how we produce our podcast? https://get.castmagic.io/ean5etivmzi1https://www.descript.com/?lmref=DdZ2MA

Host Victoria Meyer takes on the challenge of strategizing for a potentially flat and challenging year in the chemical industry in 2024. Sharing five strategic ways for businesses to kick-start their year and position themselves for long-term success, Victoria emphasizes the importance of balancing short-term needs with long-term investments, leveraging global and regional strengths, harnessing sustainability, assessing wins and losses, and building partnerships. The episode offers valuable insights for businesses to help think critically about their future, make strategic investments, and take proactive steps to navigate the uncertainties of the market. Is your business looking for a way to start strategically and quickly in 2024? Send Victoria a DM on LinkedIn and set up a 30-minute complimentary consultation where we talk about what are some strategic elements for your business to help you thrive and grow in 2024. Don't miss this insightful episode with Victoria and learn more about the following: Killer Quote: “Play short and long. Understand what's needed to be successful today and to prepare for the future. It's critical to make strategic investments, think short, play long, and ensure that you and your business are continuing to invest and evolve for the future.” - Victoria Meyer Additional Links: Episode 146: Petrochemicals in 2024: Capacity Overbuild and Codependent Markets with John Richardson of ICIS ***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 Wondering how we produce our podcast? https://get.castmagic.io/ean5etivmzi1https://www.descript.com/?lmref=DdZ2MA

Discover leading indicators for investment in Alberta’s Industrial Heartland and its growth constituents as Mark Plamondon, Alberta's Industrial Heartland Association’s Executive Director and host Victoria Meyer discuss the shift towards low carbon energy products and the region's natural competitive advantage. Tune in to gain insights into talent development, infrastructure support, and the region's potential to become a global destination for capital. Don't miss this insightful conversation between Victoria and Mark on The Chemical Show and learn more about the following: Killer Quote: "Decarbonization, low-cost feedstock, and a collaborative framework: the industrial heartland is not just a destination, but a global leader in sustainable energy investments." - Mark Plamondon ***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. Wondering how we produce our podcast? https://get.castmagic.io/ean5etivmzi1https://www.descript.com/?lmref=DdZ2MA

What factors are driving petrochemical markets today? Join this conversation between Victoria Meyer and industry-expert John Richardson of ICIS as they discuss the trends and influences on the Asian and global petrochemical markets. Including: Download John's latest analysis on petrochemical markets here. Killer Quote: "2024 and beyond will be a roller coaster ride for the industry, with China's dominance in global demand dictating the trajectory. The key will be for companies to navigate this landscape, whether they are giant international players or small local companies.” –John Richardson Prior interviews with John: Episode 102: China’s Aging Demographics and the Future of the Chemical Industry with John Richardson Episode 79: How The China Market Affects Chemical Prices With John Richardson Episode 36: How China’s Response To Chemicals Is Affecting the World With John Richardson of ICIS Episode 22: Understanding Market Demand To Manage Your Business Amid Uncertainty With John Richardson

You've heard of Spotify Wrapped and Apple Replay??? In this final 2023 episode of The Chemical Show, host Victoria Meyer presents our own version of Wrapped and Replayed.... with a best-of anthology, diving into the show's stats and analytics to highlight the most impactful episodes and topics. From the most downloaded episode featuring Michael Graff, CEO of AirLiquide Americas, to the most shared episode discussing China's aging demographics and its impact on the chemical industry, Victoria reviews the year's highlights and teases upcoming content, including a The Chemical Show LIVE event featuring Steve Lewandowski of Chemical Market Analytics. ***Register here for The Chemical Show LIVE on January 11, 2024. Space is limited. *** $$$ Complete our listener survey here. $$$ Through insights from industry events, market assessments, and a focus on bio-based chemistries and innovations, thepodcast continues to deliver valuable stories and insights for the chemical community. Killer Quote: "Podcasting is personal. It's impactful. It's real." - Victoria Meyer, 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. Wondering how we produce our podcast? https://get.castmagic.io/ean5etivmzi1https://www.descript.com/?lmref=DdZ2MA

From embracing change in one's career to the impact of COVID on buyer-seller relationships, the B2B sales landscape is facing a new set of challenges and opportunities. George Koehnke, President of Ascend Commercial Solutions joins host Victoria Meyer to explore the evolving dynamics of business relationships, including the shift towards customer-centricity and the value of coaching in sales leadership. As the chemical industry continuously adapts to market dynamics, Victoria and George discuss the importance of customer centricity in B2B relationships as well as the need to align company scorecards with customer scorecards and build joint business plans for mutual success. Killer Quote: "Success in sales and leadership development lies in coaching mentality, motivation, and bringing customer-centricity to the forefront." - George Koehnke Join us to learn more about the following this week: Whether you're navigating B2B chemical sales, seeking career advice, or looking for strategies to thrive in evolving markets, this episode provides essential insights from a seasoned industry expert. Tune in to The Chemical Show with George Koehnke for valuable lessons on driving success through customer-centric strategies and adaptable leadership in today's ever-changing business 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. Wondering how we produce our podcast? https://get.castmagic.io/ean5etivmzi1https://www.descript.com/?lmref=DdZ2MA