The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk Business

Accelerating sustainability through industry-wide collaboration is changing how chemical companies approach procurement, carbon reduction, and risk management. Victoria Meyer welcomes Jennifer Jewson, Chief Procurement Officer at LyondellBasell and President of Together for Sustainability (TfS), alongside Danielle Warnock, Senior Manager at Nouryon and TfS Regional Lead, to discuss how strategic alliances like TfS are driving real progress on sustainable procurement across the chemical industry. Victoria, Jennifer, and Danielle examine the foundations and impact of TfS: standardizing supplier engagement, launching shared audit platforms, and advancing product carbon footprint measurement to address complex Scope 3 emissions. The conversation covers how sustainable procurement is intertwining with business strategy, the challenges and realities of delivering on corporate sustainability promises, and how companies are equipping teams and the next generation of leaders to advance long-term change. Discover how collaborative platforms and disciplined governance are helping shape the future of chemicals, and why staying committed to sustainability is critical for competitiveness, growth, and continued license to operate.  Victoria, Jennifer, and Danielle discuss the following topics on this week's episode:  Together for Sustainability unites chemical companies to create shared sustainable procurement goals. Sustainable procurement explained: What it means and why it matters How TfS members use common platforms and audits to simplify supplier engagement and data exchange. Companies balance regulation, market shifts, and sustainability priorities to future-proof the industry. Passionate professionals and peer learning accelerate supply chain sustainability. Killer Quote:  “We do together what we cannot do alone.” — Jennifer Jewson, on the collaborative power of the Together for Sustainability alliance Subscribe to The Chemical Show on YouTube  ***Don’t miss an episode: Subscribe to The Chemical Show on your favorite podcast player.  ***Like what you hear? Leave a rating and review. ***Want more insights? Sign up for our email list at https://www.thechemicalshow.com  Sponsored by:World Petrochemical Conference by S&P Global on March 23-27, 2026.Use the code CHEMSHOW5% at wpc.spglobal.com

Efficiency and innovation have quietly embedded sustainability into the DNA of the chemical industry—long before the hype cycles and regulatory pressures. Mitch Toomey, VP of Sustainability and Responsible Care at the American Chemistry Council (ACC), joins host Victoria Meyer to discuss how sustainability priorities are shaped by business needs, customer expectations, and practical realities. Mitch shares his journey from management consulting to the United Nations, BASF, and now ACC, spotlighting the business case for sustainability and the real progress chemical companies are making in reducing emissions and waste, even as industry output grows. The conversation explores how the expectations around sustainability have shifted, why incremental improvements and transparency matter, and how the value chain—spanning suppliers, manufacturers, and customers—is working together to deliver meaningful results. Mitch addresses common public misconceptions about the chemical industry, offers insights into aligning diverse member interests at ACC, and closes with advice for future leaders who want to make an impact across business and policy.  Victoria and Mitch explore the following topics on this episode: The business case for sustainability: how efficiency and profitability drive lasting change Why chemical companies focus on practical, measurable sustainability improvements. How chemistry shapes everyday life Aligning diverse players across the chemical value chain for real sustainability progress. Mitch Toomey’s advice on careers and impact in sustainable chemistry.  Killer Quote:  "What’s a safe and sustainable facility is a profitable facility." – Mitch Toomey Subscribe to The Chemical Show on YouTube  ***Don’t miss an episode: Subscribe to The Chemical Show on your favorite podcast player.  ***Like what you hear? Leave a rating and review. ***Want more insights? Sign up for our email list at https://www.thechemicalshow.com  Sponsored by:World Petrochemical Conference by S&P Global on March 23-27, 2026.Use the code CHEMSHOW5% at wpc.spglobal.com

People and culture are at the heart of transformation in an AI-enabled world—especially for chemical industry leaders navigating rapid change. Host Victoria Meyer recaps the highlights from The Chemical Summit 2025, where leaders gathered in Houston to share perspectives on business strategy, workforce evolution, technology, and sustainability. The central themes included the critical role of organizational culture, the need for strong collaboration and business agility, and how digital tools and AI are reshaping work across the sector. STAY CONNECTED ALL YEAR: Join the Chemical Executive Mastermind.  New cohort starting in November.  Check it out HERE. Listeners get insights from keynote speakers and panelists on purpose-driven leadership, the realities of upskilling talent, and the impact of new technology on daily operations. Victoria explores how companies are building resilience in supply chains, creating customer value beyond price, responding to economic volatility, and implementing AI not as a job-taker, but as a growth engine.  Victoria discusses the following topics: How leaders are reshaping workplaces to thrive in the AI-powered chemical industry.   The strategies and collaboration driving chemical companies to stay nimble and deliver value.   Real stories of AI and digitalization fueling industry innovation and trust.   Data-driven trends in employee satisfaction, well-being, and skill development.   How executives are steering their companies through disruption and towards lasting success.  "People and culture are the backbone of transformation in an AI enabled world." - Victoria Meyer  Sponsored by:World Petrochemical Conference by S&P Global on March 23-27, 2026.Use the code CHEMSHOW5% at wpc.spglobal.com

In this engaging discussion, Jimmy Jett, CEO of Integrity Biochem and a pioneer in transforming pharmaceutical technology for new markets, shares his journey. He reveals how the company disrupts the century-old chemical industry with a startup mindset, prioritizing speed and adaptability. The conversation delves into overcoming regulatory hurdles, scaling operations globally, and fostering a resilient team culture. Jimmy emphasizes the importance of expert partnerships and continuous learning, offering insights on navigating challenges while maintaining a customer-focused service culture.

Oversupply, uncertainty, and shifting global forces are reshaping the chemical industry in unprecedented ways. Dewey Johnson, Senior Vice President of Dow Jones and global head of Chemical Market Analytics, joins host Victoria Meyer to dissect what’s driving the deepest and longest industry downcycle on record—from China’s march toward chemical self-sufficiency to the impact of sustainability targets and supply chain risk. Dewey shares his perspective on the global landscape, the interplay of political, economic, and environmental pressures, and why market participants are facing tough decisions about assets, investment, and strategy. Victoria and Dewey also explore how companies are navigating regional differences, the growing importance of AI, and why the next five years could bring more M&A, shutdowns, and portfolio reshaping. With insight into the evolving role of Chemical Market Analytics under Dow Jones, this conversation offers chemical industry professionals a candid look at the trends and disruptions shaping the market today—and practical considerations for staying resilient and competitive into the future.  Victoria and Dewey discuss the following topics:  Discover the forces pushing chemical markets into a deep, global downturn.   Learn how geopolitical shifts are rewriting the rules of industry competition.   Uncover China's oversized impact on worldwide chemical supply and trade.   See how innovation and strategic moves are helping companies stay resilient.   Explore how data, analytics, and AI are guiding smarter decisions in uncertain times. Killer Quote: "This is the longest and deepest down cycle ethylene has ever experienced, ever." — Dewey Johnson Subscribe to The Chemical Show on YouTube  ***Don’t miss an episode: Subscribe to The Chemical Show on your favorite podcast player.  ***Like what you hear? Leave a rating and review. ***Want more insights? Sign up for our email list at https://www.thechemicalshow.com  Sponsored by:World Petrochemical Conference by S&P Global on March 23-27, 2026.Use the code CHEMSHOW5% at wpc.spglobal.com

Leaders in the chemical industry face major shifts as 2025 closes. Key trends include permanent asset shutdowns, trade volatility, and tighter capital leading to a new era of disciplined operations. The conversation highlights the importance of targeting investments and managing cash amidst fluctuating demands. Decarbonization projects are scaled back as firms focus on incremental changes. Victoria Meyer emphasizes the need for strong customer relationships and operational resilience to thrive in a chaotic market, urging leaders to act decisively for a successful transition into 2026.

Pricing remains one of the most powerful yet often misunderstood levers for growth and profitability in the chemical industry. James Hogan, partner at Simon Kucher and expert in pricing strategy and customer behavior, joins host Victoria Meyer to break down today’s evolving landscape—from regional market differences and shifting supply dynamics to the rising role of digital tools and sustainability. Their conversation highlights how value goes beyond price alone, with factors like product quality, lead time, technical support, and strong customer relationships playing critical roles in differentiating both commodity and specialty chemical businesses. James and Victoria examine the transformation from formulaic to value-based pricing, the complexities introduced by tariffs and distributors, and the increasing need for scenario planning in a volatile market. They also discuss how technical backgrounds, transparent communication, and understanding what customers truly value can drive both personal career growth and business results.   Victoria and James explore the following topics: How a clear understanding of what customers value is critical to pricing How technical support, lead times, and relationships drive differentiation—even in commodities. Regional markets and sustainability differences are demanding tailored global strategies. How AI, data, and blockchain are revolutionizing chemical pricing and operations. Preparing for uncertainty: Scenario planning is key to staying ahead of market disruptions.  Killer Quote: "Everybody wants to avoid a price war. In an industry like this where margins are razor thin, you can't afford to go down. So let's all focus on adding more value. You add more value, you find a way to add more value, customers will find a reason and willingness to pay a little bit more. And, you know, our side is let's raise the bar rather than lower the bar." - James Hogan, Partner at Simon-Kucher Subscribe to The Chemical Show on YouTube  ***Don’t miss an episode: Subscribe to The Chemical Show on your favorite podcast player.  ***Like what you hear? Leave a rating and review. ***Want more insights? Sign up for our email list at https://www.thechemicalshow.com  Sponsored by:World Petrochemical Conference by S&P Global on March 23-27, 2026.Use the code CHEMSHOW5% at wpc.spglobal.com

The chemical industry is facing a new wave of digital transformation, with artificial intelligence and data integration promising tangible productivity gains. Ali Amin Javaheri, CEO of Knowde, returns to The Chemical Show with host Victoria Meyer to share how the industry’s historically “laggard” approach to technology is giving way to practical applications that drive value—from automating regulatory workflows to empowering sales and commercial teams. Ali draws on his deep industry background to discuss the challenges and opportunities chemical companies are encountering as they seek to unify fragmented data and leverage new tools to streamline operations. Victoria and Ali explore the critical role of leadership in successful digital adoption, the importance of targeting top business priorities, and why user adoption still hinges on solving the right problems. Their conversation covers the evolution from early e-business systems to modern AI-driven solutions, highlighting how faster access to knowledge, connected data sources, and executive engagement are fundamentally changing how chemical companies operate and create value—for their teams and their customers. Victoria and Ali cover these topics: How to transform scattered chemical data into real productivity gains. Learn how AI is solving real challenges in chemicals—not just hype. Discover why connected data means faster, smarter decisions. Learn why executive focus is the secret to lasting digital change. Get Ali’s advice for future leaders driving industry innovation.  Killer Quote: "You have no idea how many times I hear the two words ‘change management.’ And of course it’s hard—you know, people have their preferences and certain behaviors. However, people can change and people can be led to a better direction. A lot of times folks want that if they understand the why and it’s being repeated over and over again as to why it’s so important." - Ali Amin-Javaheri, CEO of KnowdeSubscribe to The Chemical Show on YouTube  ***Don’t miss an episode: Subscribe to The Chemical Show on your favorite podcast player.  ***Like what you hear? Leave a rating and review. ***Want more insights? Sign up for our email list at https://www.thechemicalshow.com  Sponsored by:World Petrochemical Conference by S&P Global on March 23-27, 2026.Use the code CHEMSHOW5% at wpc.spglobal.com

How does a 75-year-old manufacturing company successfully transform through bold acquisitions and shifting market conditions? Brad Beauchamp, President and CEO of Carpenter Company, sits down with Victoria Meyer to share Carpenter’s journey from “old-school” chemical company to global leader in comfort cushioning and consumer bedding. Brad offers a behind-the-scenes look at how Carpenter navigated the integration of major acquisitions—including Recticel, NCFI Polyurethanes, and the iconic Casper mattress brand—amid supply chain turbulence, economic uncertainty, and evolving industry demands. Victoria and Brad also tackle the changing culture in manufacturing, Carpenter’s approach to digital transformation and AI, and how leaders can balance people-first values with the drive for profit and growth. With practical leadership advice and candid stories from the front lines, this episode is a must-listen for chemical industry professionals interested in business transformation, growth strategies, and the future of manufacturing.    Victoria and Brad discuss the following:  How to keep a company growing during unpredictable times. How bold acquisitions are reshaping Carpenter’s future.Maintaining a people-first culture through major change. Evolving the chemical value chain  Leadership, digital transformation, and Carpenter’s formula for resilience. Killer Quote: "Sales is vanity, profit is sanity, but cash is reality."  — Brad Beauchamp, President and CEO of Carpenter Company 00:00 "Carpenter Company Insights with CEO" 03:42 Guest Appreciates Podcast's Positive Impact 06:55 Journey from R&D to Chemical Sales 11:45 Growth Strategy Over Coasting 15:53 Flexible Foam Acquisition Discussion 17:28 "Understanding the Casper Story" 21:37 Changing Mattress Market Dynamics 26:17 Brand-Driven Billion-Dollar Businesses 30:18 "Understanding Organizational Talent Variability" 31:17 Balancing Growth and Pace 34:48 Investing in Europe's Consumer Market 39:22 Carpenter's Transformative Profit Sharing Plan 41:16 AI's Role in Evolving Work Practices 44:53 Navigating Information in New Industries 49:51 "Curiosity Fuels Lifelong Learning" 51:05 Uncontrollable Career Advancement Factors  Subscribe to The Chemical Show on YouTube  ***Don’t miss an episode: Subscribe to The Chemical Show on your favorite podcast player.  ***Like what you hear? Leave a rating and review. ***Want more insights? Sign up for our email list at https://www.thechemicalshow.com  Sponsored by:World Petrochemical Conference by S&P Global on March 23-27, 2026.Use the code CHEMSHOW5% at wpc.spglobal.com

How companies manage people and talent is rapidly changing—especially in the chemical industry where agility, performance, and well-being are now critical business drivers. Victoria Meyer is joined by Milan Taylor, partner at Mercer and featured speaker at the upcoming Chemical Summit, to discuss how workforce redesign, skill-based development, and the integration of technology like AI are shaping both challenges and opportunities for chemical companies. Victoria and Milan explore data-driven insights around HR priorities, the importance of aligning KPIs with business strategies, and the growing pressure on leaders to address employee stress and burnout. They also address practical strategies for small and midsize companies to maintain agility and foster growth—even with limited resources. Whether you’re a leader looking to refine your talent strategy or aiming to future-proof your workforce, this episode offers valuable, actionable perspectives for navigating today’s workforce transformation.  Victoria and Milan investigate these themes this week: People-First Performance: Empowering line managers to drive results. Work redesign: Breaking jobs into skills and leveraging technology for agility. Managing AI adoption benefits and risks in chemical workforces. Addressing employee burnout and retention beyond just pay. Scalable Growth: Practical development strategies for companies of all sizes.  Killer Quote: "You can only deliver that business performance if you've got strong alignment all the way down the organization." – Milan Taylor 00:00 "Optimizing HR in Chemical Industry" 05:38 Agility: Speed, Precision, Intent 10:20 "Revolutionizing Work Through Automation" 13:23 Realistic Project Management & Transformation 17:24 HR's Cautious AI Adoption 21:40 Top Employee Priorities: Pay & Benefits 22:47 Workplace Strain Amid Economic Pressures 26:25 Unrealistic Targets Drive Employee Exit 32:23 Boost Engagement & Skills Transition 33:38 "Keys to Authentic Professionalism"  Subscribe to The Chemical Show on YouTube  ***Don’t miss an episode: Subscribe to The Chemical Show on your favorite podcast player.  ***Like what you hear? Leave a rating and review. ***Want more insights? Sign up for our email list at https://www.thechemicalshow.com  Sponsored by:World Petrochemical Conference by S&P Global on March 23-27, 2026.Use the code CHEMSHOW5% at wpc.spglobal.com