The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk Business

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: Red Sea events that are affecting shipping through the Suez CanalHow excess shipping capacity is alleviating some of the global shipping predicamentShipping equipment restrictions and tightness affecting global shipping Panama Canal challengesAlternatives to the Panama CanalImpacts on the logistics industry and customers and what's ahead in shippingKiller 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 ShamsiliEp : Innovative Logistic Solutions With Noushin Shamsili Of NUCO LogisticsPortWatch - Great resource for tracking shipping activity through Panama CanalWondering how we produce our podcast?We use Transistor to publish our podcast. Check it out 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/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: Identifying unmet needs in the digitization spaceWhat's holding companies back from going digital?How digital helps companies outpace their competitorsUnderstanding risk in digitalEngaging employees in digital strategies and change managementWhat's on the horizon for digital and chemicalsKiller 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?We use Transistor to publish our podcast. Check it out 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

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:ACI's 2024 conference theme: Advancing Cleaning InnovationInsights on six key themes from ACI 2024The impact of innovation in the cleaning industryMonitoring tightening regulations and their impactsTrends shaping the chemical business landscapeKiller 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 MirskyDownload:  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?We use Transistor to publish our podcast. Check it out 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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