The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk Business

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:Charting an international career in the chemical industryThe role sustainability plays in Ecovysts's business strategyZeolites - an old technology allowing new innovationEducating investors and customers alike through dialogue and building relationshipsStriking the balance between delivering what your business needs today and the future of the company.War for talent in the chemical industryKiller 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?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 Sponsored by:World Petrochemical Conference by S&P Global on March 23-27, 2026.Use the code CHEMSHOW5% at wpc.spglobal.com

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:NexantECA's long standing focus on sustainability in the chemical industrySustainability in the chemical industry is an evolution, not a revolutionNavigating the intersection between politics and profit while staying within regulations and guidelines. The viability of colorful technologies driven by energy sourceNew opportunities, growth, and a more sustainable future in 2024Killer 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?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 Sponsored by:World Petrochemical Conference by S&P Global on March 23-27, 2026.Use the code CHEMSHOW5% at wpc.spglobal.com

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:Chemical Industry Outlook in 2024: FoggyCarbon Reduction EffortsEconomic and Geopolitical UncertaintiesOversupply and Cost CompetitivenessCarbon Emissions and SustainabilityKiller 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?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 Sponsored by:World Petrochemical Conference by S&P Global on March 23-27, 2026.Use the code CHEMSHOW5% at wpc.spglobal.com

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:Industry Outlook in 20245 Ways to Start Strategically in a Flat/Challenging Market Key Questions to Ask Your Business and Business PartnersKiller 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?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 Sponsored by:World Petrochemical Conference by S&P Global on March 23-27, 2026.Use the code CHEMSHOW5% at wpc.spglobal.com

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:Introducing Alberta's Industrial Heartland AssociationThe Significance of Dow's Path2Zero project and first Net-Zero ethylene crackerBuilding alignment and collaboration across municipalities, governments, and investorsThe role of robust tax incentives in welcoming investmentCelebrating Alberta's Industrial Heartland Association 25th Anniversary in 2024Killer 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?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 Sponsored by:World Petrochemical Conference by S&P Global on March 23-27, 2026.Use the code CHEMSHOW5% at wpc.spglobal.com

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:Excess capacity due to overbuilt olefins and polyolefins assetsGlobal co-dependence on China for petrochemical consumption and demand growthChina's shift to "mature" growth of 1-3% p.a. from "fast growth" 6-8% p.a.How leaders are handling economic and market challengesDownload 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 RichardsonPrior interviews with John:Episode 102: China’s Aging Demographics and the Future of the Chemical Industry with John RichardsonEpisode 79: How The China Market Affects Chemical Prices With John RichardsonEpisode 36: How China’s Response To Chemicals Is Affecting the World With John Richardson of ICISEpisode 22: Understanding Market Demand To Manage Your Business Amid Uncertainty With John Richardson Sponsored by:World Petrochemical Conference by S&P Global on March 23-27, 2026.Use the code CHEMSHOW5% at wpc.spglobal.com

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?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 Sponsored by:World Petrochemical Conference by S&P Global on March 23-27, 2026.Use the code CHEMSHOW5% at wpc.spglobal.com

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 Sponsored by:World Petrochemical Conference by S&P Global on March 23-27, 2026.Use the code CHEMSHOW5% at wpc.spglobal.com

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 Sponsored by:World Petrochemical Conference by S&P Global on March 23-27, 2026.Use the code CHEMSHOW5% at wpc.spglobal.com

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 Sponsored by:World Petrochemical Conference by S&P Global on March 23-27, 2026.Use the code CHEMSHOW5% at wpc.spglobal.com