The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk Business

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:What are the job market trends today?Changing workplace normsSuccession planning amidst the gray tsunamiTalent war: What skills do companies value the most?Job markets for the rest of 2024Killer 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  Sponsored by:World Petrochemical Conference by S&P Global on March 23-27, 2026.Use the code CHEMSHOW5% at wpc.spglobal.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/ Sponsored by:World Petrochemical Conference by S&P Global on March 23-27, 2026.Use the code CHEMSHOW5% at wpc.spglobal.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:The role of chemicals in the energy transition and decarbonizationThe need for alignment and collaboration in developing global standards around sustainability, ESG measurements, and other industry requirementsThe chemical industry is a vital part of the energy transition Geopolitical challenges in the shipping industryThe challenges of decarbonization in supply chains***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://get.descript.com/j0hyfup4gm0t Sponsored by:World Petrochemical Conference by S&P Global on March 23-27, 2026.Use the code CHEMSHOW5% at wpc.spglobal.com

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:Keys to building alignment across numerous stakeholdersChemical industry's role as "solutions enablers" in the energy transition.Important of water stewardship and understanding water risk3 P's to carving a career in the chemical industry: patience, perseverance, and passionFuture STEM Scholars Initiative (FOSSI)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?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://get.descript.com/j0hyfup4gm0t Sponsored by:World Petrochemical Conference by S&P Global on March 23-27, 2026.Use the code CHEMSHOW5% at wpc.spglobal.com

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:Career paths and inspiration in chemistryThe importance of mentors in navigating a career in the chemical industryEncouraging women to pursue careers in the chemical industryPromoting awareness about diverse career paths within the chemical industryThe important role of early engagement in chemistry and STEM educationCEF”s You Be The Chemical ChallengeKiller 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?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://get.descript.com/j0hyfup4gm0t Sponsored by:World Petrochemical Conference by S&P Global on March 23-27, 2026.Use the code CHEMSHOW5% at wpc.spglobal.com

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 industryThe "graying" of the chemical industry and what that means for innovationData security and privacy in AI applicationsThe role of science-based AI in the chemical industryAddressing supply chain risks and customer concerns and adoption of AIWhat's next for AI and innovation in the chemical industryKiller 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?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 Sponsored by:World Petrochemical Conference by S&P Global on March 23-27, 2026.Use the code CHEMSHOW5% at wpc.spglobal.com

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.Laying the foundation for early STEM engagement for girlsAddressing the challenges of diversity in the chemical industryEngaging universities and creating support through mentorship programsRecognizing and utilizing transferable skillsUtilizing empathy in innovationEmphasizing the importance of collaboration and being part of the wholeStressing the importance of customer alignment ***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 Waller88. Building an Inclusive Culture with Dr. Lauran Star90. How CEPSA Uses Customer Insights Drive Transformation with Juliana Pantalena93. Creating a Robust Employee Value Proposition at Palmer Holland with Jaycie Bradshaw96. Increasing Demand of Biotechnology in Cleaning with Rashda Khan of Barentz111. Mitigating Risk in Chemicals Through Language Translation with Karen TkaczykWondering 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 Sponsored by:World Petrochemical Conference by S&P Global on March 23-27, 2026.Use the code CHEMSHOW5% at wpc.spglobal.com

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

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

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