The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk Business

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 KoehnkeJoin us to learn more about the following this week:The importance of systems and measurement in effective sellingWhy companies need to rethink sales in a post-pandemic worldBridging the gap between transactional sales to business developmentDeveloping deep relationships, engaging customers, and understanding their business strategies to create true customer centricityCritical focus areas for success in 2024Whether 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?We use CastMagic.io to create ShowNotes, Newsletters, Social Media posts and more. Check it out here: https://get.castmagic.io/ean5etivmzi1We use Descript to edit and transcribe each podcast episode. Follow this link to learn more: https://www.descript.com/?lmref=DdZ2MA

Let us know how we're doing and help us plan for 2024.  Please complete our listener survey here. With 50+ years scaling chemical processes,  Joel Shertok, President of Process Industries Consultants has spearheaded numerous projects in innovation and development consulting, bringing a unique perspective to the forefront. Joel joins host Victoria Meyer this week on The Chemical Show to share his valuable insights into the shifting trends in chemical education, industry research, and the challenges faced by startups in scaling chemical innovations.From the evolving educational landscape to the challenges faced by startup companies in commercializing their intellectual property, Victoria and Joel discuss the future convergence of chemical engineering and biology, shedding light on the green revolution's potential and the necessity of sustainable technologies. Killer Quote: "Extreme weather events are waking people up to the reality of climate change. We only change our habits when we're scared—lack of fear about climate change is hindering widespread adoption of green and sustainable technologies." - Joel ShertokJoin us to learn more about the following this week:The chemical industry's evolution over a 50 year careerChallenges faced by new startup companiesKey milestones signaling a product or process is ready for commercializationWhat it will take to ensure green technologies thrive across industriesIdentifying potential environment impacts as new technologies go to commercializationGain a high-level understanding of the trends, challenges, and future predictions in the chemical industry, on this episode of The Chemical Show. Join us to learn more about navigating the ever-changing landscape of chemical engineering and innovation.***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?We use CastMagic.io to create ShowNotes, Newsletters, Social Media posts and more. Check it out here: https://get.castmagic.io/ean5etivmzi1We use Descript to edit and transcribe each podcast episode. Follow this link to learn more: https://www.descript.com/?lmref=DdZ2MA

There's a significant evolution in consumer behavior and chemical industry priorities.  Digitizing complex chemical data from unstructured documents to provide a more accessible online format raises an intriguing question - how can we leverage technology to reshape customer engagement and the overall landscape of customer interactions within the chemical industry? Exploring these challenges and opportunities in digitizing complex chemical data for customer understanding and engagement, host Victoria Meyer welcomes Ali Amin-Javaheri, co-founder and CEO of Knowde, for an insightful discussion on the digital transformation of the chemical industry. Victoria and Ali delve into the intersection of technology, sustainability, and customer relationships, offering valuable insights into the evolving landscape of ESG reporting, digital investments, and the potential for reshaping customer engagement in the chemical industry.Killer Quote: "Digitization in the chemical industry is not just about transforming data; it's about transforming relationships." - Ali Amin-JavaheriJoin us to learn more about the following this week:Creating a compelling a customer experience through accelerating digitizationBiggest barriers to digitization within chemical companies and chemical industry leadersOrganizing data through AIOvercoming the loss of customer intimacy through digitizationHow can digitization support a company's sustainability journey?With a passion for both technology and the chemical industry, Ali observed the lack of digital transformation and revenue within the industry, leading him to launch Knowde in 2016. Knowde's mission is to fast-track the digital revolution in the chemical industry, addressing the challenge of translating complex chemical data from documents into an accessible online format.This episode is sponsored by Clariant. Are you grappling with the lightning pace of regulatory and compliance changes in the printing inks industry? Do you want to know more about PFAS, supply chain transparency and extended producer responsibility? Check out Episode 137 of The Chemical Show to learn about PTFE-free solutions with Clariant and NAPIM. ***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?Transistor.fm is our podcast publisher of choice. Try it for free here: https://transistor.fm/?via=victoriaWe use CastMagic.io to create ShowNotes, Newsletters, Social Media posts and more. Check it out here: https://get.castmagic.io/ean5etivmzi1We use Descript to edit and transcribe each podcast episode. Follow this link to learn more: https://www.descript.com/?lmref=DdZ2MA

In collaboration with industry giants and support from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Enko Chem is revolutionizing the agricultural industry by accelerating the development of safer and more effective herbicides, disease protection, insect control, and yield enhancement solutions. Tom Meade, Chief Science Officer at Enko Chem joins host Victoria Meyer on The Chemical Show to share insights on their target-based discovery platform, the importance of data in their research, and the challenges and advantages of integrating DNA and chemistry.Killer Quote: "In order to revolutionize crop protection chemistries, we need to embrace the power of data, technology, and collaboration. By combining these elements, we can accelerate the development of safe and effective solutions that address the challenges facing our agriculture industry." - Tom MeadeJoin us to learn more about the following this week:Chemistry's key role in global agricultural industry, food security, and crop protectionTarget based discovery in agricultural , leveraging techniques built in pharmaUtilizing data and AI in the agricultural industry The role of regulators including EPA and USDA in AgChemPrioritizing safety in agricultural innovationIn this episode, Victoria and Tom delve into Enko's mission to shorten the development timeline for crop protection chemistries while exploring the challenges and advantages of their target-based discovery platform, which aims to identify specific targets for herbicides and pesticides. Tom also shares the importance of data in Enko's research and development process, as well as their use of automated systems and machine learning models. This episode is sponsored by Clariant. Are you grappling with the lightning pace of regulatory and compliance changes in the printing inks industry? Do you want to know more about PFAS, supply chain transparency and extended producer responsibility? Check out Episode 137 of The Chemical Show to learn about PTFE-free solutions with Clariant and NAPIM. ***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?Transistor.fm is our podcast publisher of choice. Try it for free here: https://transistor.fm/?via=victoriaWe use CastMagic.io to create ShowNotes, Newsletters, Social Media posts and more. Check it out here: https://get.castmagic.io/ean5etivmzi1We use Descript to edit and transcribe each podcast episode. Follow this link to learn more: https://www.descript.com/?lmref=DdZ2MA

Ep 138 Show NotesWeak demand, weak earnings, and a weak outlook were the resounding themes across the chemical companies' earnings reports in the third quarter, 2023. Inventory de-stocking and lower prices have continued to impact the industry, leading to challenging market conditions.In this episode of The Chemical Show, host Victoria Meyer reflects on the third quarter 2023 earnings reports in the chemical industry. She discusses the challenges faced by companies, such as weak demand, lower earnings, and inventory de-stocking, as well as the actions they are taking to respond to the market conditions. Killer Quote: "2023 has been a challenging year, much more so than we expected at the beginning of the year.” Victoria MeyerJoin us to learn more about the following this week:Breaking down 3Q23 Earnings Reports How earnings reports are interpretedKeyword of third quarter earnings reports is “Weak”: weak demand, weak earnings, and weak outlookInventory and forecasting continue to be a challengeCompression in buy-sell cycleStrategies companies are using to manage their balance sheetsFocus on cash generation through commercial discipline Expectations for Q423Lessons learned from industry leadersVictoria highlights the importance of commercial discipline, continued investment in strategic projects, and the recognition and optimization of high-value products. She also touches on the need for better forecasting and communication between suppliers and customers. Additional Links:Episode 118: Unpacking 2Q23 Chemical Earnings: Sluggish Economies, Inventory Destocking, and Future OutlooksGrace Matthews Fall OutlookEp 120: Commercial Discipline: Unlocking Business Resilience in Challenging TimesThis episode is sponsored by Clariant. Are you grappling with the lightning pace of regulatory and compliance changes in the printing inks industry? Do you want to know more about PFAS, supply chain transparency and extended producer responsibility? Check out Episode 137 of The Chemical Show to learn about PTFE-free solutions with Clariant and NAPIM. ***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?Transistor.fm is our podcast publisher of choice. Try it for free here: https://transistor.fm/?via=victoriaWe use CastMagic.io to create ShowNotes, Newsletters, Social Media posts and more. Check it out here: https://get.castmagic.io/ean5etivmzi1We use Descript to edit and transcribe each podcast episode. Follow this link to learn more: https://www.descript.com/?lmref=DdZ2MA

The printing inks industry is undergoing a significant transformation, with a growing focus on environmental sustainability and regulatory compliance. In this Episode of The Chemical Show, Host Victoria Meyer welcomes Ray Gonzales, Global Head of Marketing and Business Development for Clariant and George Fuchs, Director of Regulatory Affairs for National Association of Printing Ink Manufacturers, otherwise known as NAPIM to discuss these topics and more. Discover how Clariant and NAPIM are navigating the changing regulations in the printing inks market and exploring alternative solutions and the quest for transparency. Victoria, George, and Ray discuss the importance of achieving supply chain transparency and the collaborative efforts between companies like Clariant and industry associations like NAPIM to find safer and more sustainable solutions in the printing inks market. Killer Quote: "The ink industry is rapidly evolving, and it's crucial for us to find sustainable alternatives to PTFE. Our collaboration with companies like Clariant is instrumental in achieving this goal and ensuring the safety and environmental friendliness of our ink formulations." - George Fuchs, NAPIMJoin us to learn more about the following this week:The rapidly evolving printing inks marketHow regulation and customer demand influences the printing inks marketsReporting, transparency, and supply chain transparency in the printing inks industryR&D's role in material replacements for PFAS in ink systemsNavigating global regulations in the printing inks industryLooking forward in the printing inks industryVictoria, along with Ray and George, delve into the complex world of printing inks, exploring the challenges and opportunities of finding safer alternatives to chemicals like PTFE, navigating the ever-changing regulatory landscape, and striving for greater supply chain transparency. ***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?Transistor.fm is our podcast publisher of choice. Try it here: https://transistor.fm/?via=victoriaWe use CastMagic.io to create ShowNotes, Newsletters, Social Media posts and more. Check it out here: https://get.castmagic.io/ean5etivmzi1We use Descript to edit and transcribe each podcast episode. Follow this link to learn more: https://www.descript.com/?lmref=DdZ2MA

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.