The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk Business

Jaksot

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  CEO: How Executive Orders are Reshaping Chemical Imports and Compliance with Noushin Shamsili of NUCO Logistics - Ep. 281 15.09.2026 36min

  New executive orders and tougher enforcement are raising the stakes for trade compliance in the chemical industry. Victoria Meyer sits down with Noushin Shamsili, CEO of NUCO Logistics, to clarify what leaders need to know about customs, importer responsibilities, and real-time compliance demands. They outline how assigning ownership of trade compliance, strengthening internal processes, and leveraging systems like CAPE for tariff refunds can protect your business. This episode highlights the true risks of non-compliance and offers practical guidance for leaders navigating the shifting landscape of global supply chains. Victoria and Noushin discuss: How NUCO Logistics pioneered chemical-specific freight forwarding and customs brokerage. The difference between customs clearance and full-spectrum trade compliance. Understanding the new Executive Order 14411: stricter requirements, physical presence, and increased accountability for importers of record. Why compliance is a company-wide responsibility spanning purchasing, logistics, regulatory, finance, and executive leadership. The essentials every chemical importer must address: HTS codes, country of origin, valuation, recordkeeping, and post-entry audits. Tariffs and what’s changed, how to ensure you recover eligible duties, and common pitfalls. Practical steps to strengthen compliance culture and safeguard your license to operate. Killer Quote: “Importing into the country is not a right, it is a privilege that has been given to every importer.” — Noushin Shamsili  More Links: Episode 248 - What’s Ahead for Marine Logistics in 2026 with Noushin Shamsili of NUCO Logistics Episode 64 - Innovative Logistic Solutions With Noushin Shamsili Of NUCO Logistics Episode 12 - How NUCO Logistics Pivoted During The Pandemic With Noushin Shamsili
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  INSIGHT: What Chemical Industry Deals Signal About the Future 08.09.2026 14min

  Industry headlines are driving strategic shifts in the chemical sector, and Victoria Meyer gives her candid perspective on what these major moves really mean for industry leaders and decision makers. This episode puts a spotlight on recent deals and boardroom decisions involving Shell, Olin, Huntsman, Solstice Advanced Materials, and H.B. Fuller. From Shell’s planned chemical asset sale to the Olin-Huntsman merger of equals, Victoria unpacks key questions: Is this a broader trend or company-specific? How does M&A activity impact value chains, partner relationships, and competitive dynamics? What does it signal about the future shape of the chemical industry? Victoria discusses: Shell’s $8B US chemical asset sale and why Exxon, LyondellBasell, and investors are circling. H.B. Fuller’s board rejecting a proposal from activist investor Ancora and why value creation looks different from the inside versus the outside. Why Solstice and Element Solutions called off a $14.5B merger, insight into what “better alone than together” means in practice. The Olin and Huntsman “merger of equals” and what’s behind their conviction that the whole is greater than the sum of the parts. Broader market trends: Portfolio reshaping, supply chain considerations in deal-making, and what leaders must do to position their companies for future advantage. Killer Quote: “The whole point of reshaping advantage is that it’s not about fixing your business for today… it’s really looking ahead—for the future, 5 years, 10 years, 20 years out.” – Victoria Meyer Article Links: Solstice, Element terminate $14.5 billion merger deal after shareholder feedback H.B. Fuller Board Unanimously Rejects Unsolicited Proposal from Ancora Shell draws Exxon interest in $8bn US chemical assets sale OLIN and HUNTSMAN Shareholders Approve Transformative Merger of Equals 
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  Navigating Economic Shifts and Industry Trends with Martha Moore, Chief Economist at American Chemistry Council - Ep. 279 01.09.2026 33min

  Chief Economist Martha Moore of the American Chemistry Council joins Victoria Meyer to unpack the latest economic realities and policy challenges shaping the chemical industry. Martha shares insight from ACC’s member surveys, discusses key drivers behind current market trends, and covers what’s keeping executives awake at night—from rising raw material costs to global trade uncertainty. This episode also covers the strategic importance of US manufacturing, the impact of legislation like TSCA, and how the industry is positioning for growth and innovation amid a shifting global landscape. Martha offers data-driven perspectives relevant to leaders needing to navigate volatility, build resilience, and influence both policy and boardrooms. Victoria and Martha discuss the following: Martha’s path from a STEM-focused upbringing to Chief Economist at ACC. The three pillars driving chemical demand: consumer spending, business investment, and exports. The sharp rise in raw materials and logistics costs for chemical manufacturers. What ACC’s members and sentiment surveys reveal about today’s top business challenges. The effect of international trade policy, tariffs, and China’s rising influence on the industry. Why innovation and reshoring US manufacturing are vital for future growth. Leadership lessons for executives: focus on agility, long-term strategy, and building resilience.  Killer Quote: “Chemistry is foundational to our economy, and being able to communicate that message is one of the top things we do. I try to help people make the connection between chemistry and the experiences they’re having in their everyday lives.” —Martha Moore Other Links: The Chemical Summit 
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  Strait of Hormuz & Red Sea Crisis Continues with Farid Tahvildari of NUCO Logistics - Ep. 278 25.08.2026 28min

  This episode of The Chemical Show features Farid Tahvildari, Managing Director of NUCO Logistics. Returning to the podcast, Farid provides a straightforward analysis of the ongoing Strait of Hormuz and Red Sea crises and their far-reaching impacts on global shipping, freight costs, and chemical supply chains. He explains how even those not directly trading through these regions are affected by disruptions in marine traffic, rising insurance costs, and energy price volatility. Victoria and Farid examine how the industry has adapted to persistent instability, from the emergence of new shipping routes around Africa due to Suez Canal constraints to the critical importance of redundancy in logistics planning. Farid provides practical advice for shippers, highlighting that planning, communication, and strong provider relationships are now the cornerstones of resilient supply chains. Key topics discussed in this episode: Strait of Hormuz Crisis: Why it matters for global shipping, chemicals, and energy—even for companies outside the Gulf region Red Sea Disruptions: The Houthis’ impact on marine logistics, workarounds, and why confidence in shipping lanes is as vital as their physical openness Adaptation in Action: How chemical and logistics companies have shifted to new routes, added shipping capacity, and developed operational flexibility Inventory Management: Avoiding the pitfalls of single-lane dependence and leveraging lessons learned from the COVID container crisis Small & Midsize Company Strategies: How those with less leverage can increase resilience Early Warning Signs: Key indicators—including port omissions, insurance premiums, and carrier announcements—that signal rising risk Long-Term Outlook: Why the industry is preparing for ongoing uncertainty and building a new normal rooted in flexibility Killer Quote: "At the end of the day, by knowing where the exposures are, you can plan...work closely with your provider, whoever they are. That’s the key." —Farid Tahvildari Other Links: Strait of Hormuz Crisis: How Oil and Chemicals Are Affected Worldwide with Farid Tahvildari (Episode 257) Red Sea Shipping Issues and Resolutions with Farid Tahvildari of NUCO Logistics (Episode 152) 
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  INSIGHT: Leadership Under Pressure: When Everything Demands Your Attention - Ep. 277 18.08.2026 27min

  Facing increasing demands, complex organizational shifts, and economic uncertainty, many leaders in the chemical industry are under more pressure than ever. In this episode of The Chemical Show, Victoria Meyer explores emerging patterns in executive and senior leadership she's noticed from her conversations with industry leaders, coaching, and real-world experience. Victoria explains the three key patterns she’s seeing in organizations today and shares a “leadership operating reset” framework with three practical pillars to relieve stress and refocus on what matters. You’ll hear how to shift from doing it all to enabling others, set clear boundaries, empower up-and-coming leaders, and reclaim time for strategic priorities—both for yourself and for your team. Join us this week to learn about: New Organizational Realities: Why simplification often just means increased workload for proven leaders Leadership Bottlenecks: The risk of becoming the go-to resolver and how it stifles organizational development Dealing with Pressure: Balancing stakeholder demands at work and at home, and the importance of clear boundaries Activity vs. Value: Recognizing when too much busyness is displacing your crucial leadership work Leadership Operating Reset: Three pillars for relief—control the flow of demands, clarify decision processes, and align operating rhythms Delegation and Decision Rights: How enabling others to act boosts effectiveness and relieves pressure Killer Quote: “You’re making the greatest impact when you’re working at your highest value—setting direction, building relationships, and enabling others—not just solving every problem that finds its way to you.” -Victoria Meyer Other links: Talent Shifts Reshaping the Chemical Industry with Geoff Smith of Mercer (Ep. 274) The Chemical Summit  40 Under 40 in Chemicals 
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  INSIGHT: What's Ahead for Chemicals? | Insights from 2Q2026 Chemical Earnings - Ep. 276 11.08.2026 20min

  Victoria Meyer breaks down second quarter 2026 earnings results from across the chemical industry, pulling out the trends, strategies, and market shifts that matter to business leaders. With Q2 numbers in and disruption still echoing from the ongoing war in Iran, many companies saw stronger results. Victoria cuts through the headlines to clarify what’s really happening beneath the surface: better results are mostly price-driven, not volume-led, signaling that supply disruptions and strategic positioning are behind the recent boost. She highlights the critical role of location, sustained portfolio reshaping, and why transformation efforts will continue as demand fundamentals hold steady. Key discussion areas this week: Earnings Snapshots: How Dow’s rapid price increases and BASF’s portfolio moves helped deliver strong quarters. War in Iran & Industry Impact: Concrete effects on supply chains, feedstock availability, and why regional advantages are more crucial than ever. Geographical Advantage: How US-based and European manufacturers leveraged disruption, and why location remains a primary driver of competitive edge. Portfolio Restructuring: Ongoing business reshaping at the executive level, including recent M&A and divestitures from BASF, Dow, IMCD, Brenntag, and Univar. Value Migration: Shifts towards differentiated products and growth sectors such as electronics, healthcare, personal care, and data center support. Leadership Discipline: What CEOs are saying (and not saying) about capital allocation, resilience, and sticking to fundamentals as Q3 and Q4 approach. Killer Quote: "Competitive advantage isn't coming from one place. It's coming from a combination of execution, portfolio choices, customer focus, and the ability to adapt faster than the market around you." - Victoria Meyer Other links: Mid-Year Earnings Reset: Access the episode and workbook referenced by Victoria for practical strategic planning. In-Depth Analysis: Listen to the recent episode with John Richardson on supply-demand fundamentals and China’s impact. 
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  Beyond Price: Building Competitive Advantage with Bob Tauchen of Coim - Ep. 275 04.08.2026 35min

  Navigating growth, leadership, and innovation in polyurethanes, Robert (Bob) Tauchen, VP of Polyurethanes at the Coim Group, joins Victoria Meyer for an expert look at how the industry is adapting to shifting markets and new technologies. Bob explains Coim’s global strategy as a family-owned Italian company investing deeply in the US, first in New Jersey, and now expanding to Texas to address the evolving needs of North American customers. Victoria and Bob discuss the realities of growth expectations post-COVID, why long-term vision is essential in the chemical industry, and how relationships, trust, and reliability drive success in the US market. They also explore how leadership styles are changing with new generations, the stressors facing today’s teams, and why building context and motivation is more important than ever.  Key topics this week include: Global Expansion: How Coim’s strategy balances investment, logistics, and customer proximity in the US Industry Recovery: The impact of COVID-era growth spikes and how to reset realistic performance goals US Market Dynamics: Why trust, reliability, and local presence matter more than price Leadership Today: Managing across generations, keeping teams engaged, and adapting to new expectations AI in Chemicals: Where AI brings value, why implementation is complex, and the need for thoughtful investment Killer Quote: “The short-term growth addiction that I see, people make bad decisions..... we got addicted to this COVID profit margin return to significant growth.” — Bob Tauken Other links: Polyurethanes Technical Conference (CPI): Learn more and register for the upcoming event in Orlando here. 
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  Talent Shifts Reshaping the Chemical Industry with Geoff Smith of Mercer - Ep. 274 28.07.2026 23min

  On this episode of The Chemical Show, Geoff Smith, partner at Mercer, joins Victoria Meyer to unpack what’s really changing in the chemical industry’s talent landscape. Drawing on Mercer’s recent Global Talent Trends Survey, Geoff explains why employee thriving is down, especially among managers, and what leaders can do to support and engage their people in a fast-changing, tech-enabled world. Victoria and Geoff discuss the impact of AI and rapid change on jobs, the shift toward flatter organizational structures, and how career progression is evolving. They offer actionable advice for leaders and professionals: communicate with authenticity, clarify career paths, and foster continual learning. The importance of context and judgment, alongside technology skills, gets special attention. Tune in for key takeaways: Why employee thriving is dropping and what this means for managers How AI and technology are changing, but not replacing, critical roles The reality of career paths in a flatter organization Leadership priorities: building skills, supporting managers, and clear communication Practical guidance for professionals navigating the “messy middle” of their careers Killer Quote: "You own your career and the trajectory. Always invest in yourself by continuous learning... It should be okay to ask questions so that you get clarity so that you can do your job." -- Geoff Smith 
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  How AI Is Transforming Chemical Shipping and Supply Chains with Josh Luby of Veson Nautical - Ep. 273 21.07.2026 40min

  AI is fundamentally changing the game for maritime shipping and supply chain management, especially when global disruptions and unstructured data make traditional approaches less effective. Victoria Meyer sits down with Josh Luby, Director of Product Management at Veson Nautical, to discuss how artificial intelligence, through tools like Veson’s Co Captain, is helping companies move from reactive problem-solving to proactive decision-making. Josh sheds light on the complexity of chemical shipping, the challenges of harmonizing communications, and how Veson’s AI leverages decades of domain knowledge to tackle real-world business needs. Their conversation explores the impact of geopolitical shocks, the critical importance of data governance and trust in connected systems, and the measurable ROI chemical companies are already seeing from smarter, more predictive supply chain tools. Whether it's optimizing demurrage claims or enabling faster response to global disruptions, AI is unlocking new levels of reliability and strategic advantage across the industry.  Key topics addressed this week: The expanding role of AI in chemical and maritime shipping Challenges and lessons learned from rolling out enterprise-scale AI Reducing complexity in demurrage claims and supply chain communication Applying technology during supply chain shocks Strategies for governing data and building user trust with connected platforms The shift from reactive to proactive decision-making across the shipping lifecycle  Killer Quote: “You can throw AI terms on top of anything, but it really matters how the data is that’s feeding into that AI and what knowledge that AI is given. Without historical knowledge and logic, you’re not going to be able to get the right answer.” — Josh Luby  Other links:  Per Ostman - Episode 228
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  CEO: From Transformation to Advantage with Hexion’s Michael Lefenfeld (Revisited) - Ep. 272 14.07.2026 31min

  With the 2026 Chemical Summit on the horizon and Michael Lefenfeld set as the keynote speaker, this timely re-release spotlights his leadership at Hexion as the company moves beyond traditional chemicals into technology-enabled solutions. Victoria Meyer and Michael dig into the pressures facing the industry, from increasing customer demands and global competition to the need for digital transformation and resilient supply chains. Their conversation covers Hexion’s approach to innovation through AI-powered systems, the shift to customer partnerships, and talent strategies for a rapidly changing workforce. For business leaders anticipating the themes of the upcoming Chemical Summit, this episode offers practical insights on transformation and sustainable growth in today’s industry landscape.  Join us to learn more about the following topics this week: Fast-paced transformation in private equity environments Hexion’s journey: legacy, rebranding, and global reach Moving from commodity supplier to solutions provider Using AI and digital tools to improve manufacturing and product quality Addressing workforce shifts and talent needs in chemicals Core leadership lessons: curiosity, collaboration, and diversity Killer Quote: "It's really about that empowerment of information and that spread of knowledge across the organization... I surround myself with the smartest people I can. It makes my job really easy." — Michael Lefenfeld  Other links: Learn more about the 2026 Chemical Summit: https://www.thechemicalsummit.com 
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  INSIGHT: Mid-Year Reset Checklist for Leaders (2026 Edition) - Ep. 271 07.07.2026 21min

  Download the Executive Discussion Guide: https://www.thechemicalshow.com/midyear How do you reset your business and leadership strategy when the world refuses to stick to the plan? Victoria King Meyer brings a midyear perspective on the dramatic changes shaping the chemical industry in 2026, ranging from supply chain disruptions caused by geopolitical tensions to the accelerating implementation of AI and ongoing restructuring across global markets. Victoria shares a blueprint for turning uncertainty into opportunity as she breaks down three essential resets for both organizations and individual leaders. She highlights the importance of reassessing assumptions, reallocating resources, and building adaptability at every level. With actionable advice and a practical executive discussion guide, this episode offers chemical industry professionals a timely roadmap to recalibrate for a stronger second half of the year.  Join us this week as Victoria Meyer covers: The necessity of resetting your business plan when the world changes How supply chain and geopolitical risks have shifted industry priorities Moving AI and digital tools from experimentation to value creation Three conversations every leadership team needs to have this summer Building adaptability and removing organizational friction The role of leadership attention, impact, and redefining success in tough times Actionable steps for setting a new personal and professional scorecard for 2026 (00:00) - Intro (00:27) - Entering 2026 With a Plan vs. Today’s Reality (01:22) - Geopolitical Events: War in Iran and Global Supply Chains (02:01) - Industry Restructuring and Strategic Shifts (02:26) - Transitioning AI From Experimentation to ROI (04:57) - Rethinking Business Assumptions for the Second Half (06:21) - Reallocating Advantage - Making Critical Choices (07:46) - Building Organizational Adaptability (11:16) - Resetting Leadership Focus and Effectiveness (16:40) - Redefining Success and Measuring Personal Impact (20:12) - Embracing the Reset — Fresh Start for the Second Half (20:56) - Outro Killer Quote: “Plans matter, but assumptions matter even more. And when assumptions change, you, leaders, have a choice. Continue executing on yesterday’s plan, or recalibrate, make trade-offs, and adapt faster than the market around you.” – Victoria Meyer  Other links: Download the Executive Discussion Guide: https://www.thechemicalshow.com/midyear Listen to executive perspectives from S&P Global and Chemical Market Analytics (Episode 250) 
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  China’s Opportunistic Moves and Changing Dynamics in Asia’s Chemical Industry with John Richardson - Ep. 270 30.06.2026 28min

  John Richardson, Director of Market Insights at ICIS, joins host Victoria Meyer to unpack the turbulence of 2026 in the global chemical markets. John shares perspectives on how the Middle East conflict rapidly shifted the market from chronic oversupply to acute undersupply, sending shockwaves through supply chains. The conversation highlights China’s evolving strategy, moving from a net importer to a net exporter of key petrochemicals, alongside the roles of stockpiling, export push, and moving down the cost curve. Victoria and John discuss the growing divide between Asian producers, with Chinese assets better positioned than those in Northeast Asia, which have struggled with costly feedstocks and plant shutdowns. John explains how anti-dumping measures and the proliferation of safeguard policies are influencing global trade, and why project delays and overinvestment may push out recovery timelines. Looking ahead, John outlines the key market and geopolitical signals to watch for as the industry navigates through uncertainty.  Key topics covered: Effects of the Middle East crisis on chemical supply chains and market pricing China’s rapid shift from importer to exporter and its impact on global markets The influence of cost, integration, and energy targets on China’s chemical industry Why some plants may not restart and the long-term view on capacity and demand The future of project investment and what signals indicate market recovery  Killer Quote: "Chaos. If you were sitting in the markets on 28th of February, your main concern was over supply...then suddenly it was an under supply crisis when the strait closed..." – John Richardson  Other Links: John Richardson 
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  INSIGHT: How Leading Companies are Reshaping Chemical Industry Landscape in 2026 - Ep. 269 23.06.2026 17min

  Restructuring, mergers, and a fundamental reevaluation of competitive advantage are reshaping the chemical industry at a rapid pace. Host Victoria Meyer reviews recent headline-making events, from Evonik's major portfolio changes and Huntsman and Olin’s proposed merger to Trinseo’s bankruptcy and Syensqo’s portfolio review. Victoria explores what it means for companies to build sustainable value and rethink where true advantage lies. The episode frames the upcoming Chemical Summit’s theme, “Reshaping Advantage,” and urges listeners to consider whether their current strategies and business models will be enough for the future.  Key topics in this episode: Industry Restructuring: Major moves from Evonik, Huntsman-Olin, Trinseo, and others... Portfolio Strategy: Shedding legacy businesses and optimizing future growth. Financial Fundamentals: Why improving cash flow and reducing debt are now front and center. Global Market Shifts: The end of China-led demand growth and evolving geopolitical influences. Leadership Priorities: Rethinking business models, talent needs, and the importance of resilient organizations. Upcoming Chemical Summit: Preview of the conference’s four pillars—strategy in a fragmented market, people, execution/resilience, and technology.  Killer Quote: "Business is going to be won differently in five years from now than it was over the past 35 years." —Victoria Meyer  Other links: The Chemical Summit 
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  INSIGHT: 5 Critical Success Factors for Enterprise AI Success | Beyond the Chat Prompt with Victoria King Meyer - Ep. 268 16.06.2026 16min

  What truly sets apart companies succeeding with AI from those still stuck in pilot mode? Host Victoria Meyer unpacks the five critical capabilities every organization needs to translate AI experimentation into measurable business value. Drawing on industry research and real-world conversations with chemical leaders, Victoria highlights why enterprise AI success depends less on technology and more on organizational approach. Victoria outlines how strong governance, connected data systems, organizational context, leadership, and a sharp focus on value creation are the real game changers. She shares practical examples, including a mid-sized chemical distributor reshaping its business by integrating AI with thoughtful leadership and context. Tune in for smart strategies chemical industry professionals can use to move AI from concept to competitive advantage.  Join this episode to learn about: The five critical capabilities for enterprise AI success. Practical examples from chemical industry leaders who are moving from experimentation to measurable ROI. The role of leadership in championing and scaling AI projects. Why business value, not just efficiency, is the true measure of AI success today.  Killer Quote: "Enterprise AI success isn't determined by the model you choose... it's really determined by the organizational capabilities you build around AI." — Victoria Meyer Other links:Unlocking ROI with AI in Chemicals | Insights from Kendall Justiniano 
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  Unlocking ROI with AI in Chemicals | Insights from Kendall Justiniano - Ep. 267 09.06.2026 32min

  On this episode of The Chemical Show, Victoria Meyer talks with Kendall Justiniano, Managing Director of Growth Arc Advisors, about the state of AI in the chemical industry. Kendall argues that the “exploratory phase” is over, and the focus must now shift to achieving real business value. They discuss why many companies remain stuck in experimentation mode and what it takes to move beyond isolated pilots to deliver ROI. The conversation covers key ingredients for effective AI use: governance, connected systems, and building internal expertise. Victoria and Kendall explore practical barriers like security and data silos, outline where ROI is taking shape in commercial and document-heavy processes, and examine how companies can build context-rich systems for long-term competitive advantage.  Topics covered this week: AI Maturity Curve: Why has the exploratory phase ended? Adoption vs. ROI: Where chemical companies are seeing returns—and where they aren’t Generative AI beyond chat prompts: Building connections with data systems The Governance Imperative: Data access, security, and responsible experimentation Commercial Applications: Sales, marketing, and procurement as major opportunity areas Context Layers: Embedding company know-how into AI workflows for differentiation Measuring and validating AI performance as systems evolve  Killer Quote: "We’re the ones doing the cross-system scanning—and that’s where your AI is going to live. It’s going to live right next to us." — Kendall Justiniano  Other links: AI Series by Kendall Justiniano  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 
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  INSIGHT: Business of Beauty: 5 Key Insights from NYSCC Suppliers' Day 2026 - Ep. 266 02.06.2026 18min

  Fresh from NYSCC Suppliers' Day, host Victoria Meyer shares key updates on the changes shaping personal care. This episode covers top takeaways for chemical suppliers, manufacturers, and value chain partners—featuring on-the-floor conversations with Neslihan Utkan of Croda and Syensqo’s Jennifer Zientek and Tom Brophy. Victoria highlights how companies are responding to demands for better performance, more sustainable products, and resilient supply chains. Insights from Neslihan, Jennifer, and Tom show where the industry is headed: multifunctionality, sensory impact, local sourcing, and the rising influence of global innovation. The episode also covers regulatory breakthroughs, such as approval of the first new US sunscreen filter in 25 years, and what faster ingredient approvals mean for suppliers and brands.  Listen in for insights on: Product innovation: Multifunctional, sensory-focused, and bio-based ingredients Realigning supply chains for resilience and local sourcing New regulatory approvals and their impact on market opportunities  Killer Quote:  "It’s all about innovation and we need to focus on really innovating to meet the unmet customer requirements and needs." — Neslihan Utkan, Croda  Don’t miss an episode: Subscribe to The Chemical Show on your favorite podcast player. Like what you hear? Leave a rating and review. *Get more insights—join our email list at https://www.thechemicalshow.com 
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  Tech Transfer, Innovation, and the Future of Chemicals with Cameron Begley - Ep. 265 26.05.2026 1t 17min

  Turning groundbreaking ideas into real market value is more challenging than most realize. Victoria Meyer and Cameron Begley, host of Tech Transfer Talk (sponsored by Spiegare), explore the pitfalls and successes of technology transfer, innovation, and commercialization within the chemical industry. They draw on years of experience to reveal why many innovations face roadblocks and what companies need to do differently to bring new products to market. Their conversation covers the crucial role of leadership in setting risk tolerance, the human factors at the heart of business change, and how digital and regulatory shifts are redefining value and sustainability. This episode offers practical insight for industry professionals on navigating today’s complex innovation landscape.  Tune in to hear more about: What Technology Transfer Really Means: Moving innovation from lab to real-world impact Why Great Ideas Often Don’t Make It: Commercial hurdles, market fit, and the overvaluation of early-stage IP Operational Excellence vs. Innovation: Why large companies often struggle with disruptive change The Shift from Efficiency to Resilience: Implications for asset strategy, supply chain, and business model design People, Not Just Processes: The human dynamic in successful integration, M&A, and organizational change The Board, the C-Suite, and Risk Appetite: How leadership perspective shapes what gets funded—and what gets killed Measuring Value in Innovation: The unique challenge of quantifying digital investment and other non-traditional initiatives Regulation and Social License: Balancing necessary oversight with the need to accelerate safer, greener technologies Sustainability—Big S vs. Little S: Pragmatic approaches to long-term business health and environmental responsibility  Killer Quote: " Companies don’t do tech transfer—people do tech transfer. Success comes down to culture, communication, and clear incentives at every level. " — Cameron Begley More Links:www.techtransfertalk.comwww.spiegare.com.auhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/cameron-begley-9138bb/https://www.linkedin.com/company/spiegare-consulting/
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  INSIGHT: Q1 Chemical Earnings are Sending Mixed Signals - Ep. 264 19.05.2026 24min

  Examining Q1 2026 earnings in the chemical industry, Victoria Meyer, host of The Chemical Show, breaks down what company reports really reveal about demand, pricing, and outlook for the rest of the year. Victoria focuses on the critical signals from Q1 and what business leaders should watch as market disruptions continue.This episode tackles the nuanced difference between stabilization and true recovery, drawing from public earnings calls and direct conversations at recent industry events. Victoria explains that while some companies have seen volume and pricing lift, much of the activity reflects inventory pre-buying rather than fundamental demand. North American petrochemical producers are benefiting from feedstock advantages, whereas Asian and European producers are facing unique challenges, from feedstock constraints to lingering regulatory issues. The episode also highlights how defensive management remains the norm, with a strong emphasis on cost discipline, restructuring, and risk management as companies look to navigate ongoing geopolitical uncertainties and regionally diverse market conditions.Join us to learn more about the following topics this week:Q1 2026 Earnings: What the numbers actually show about recovery versus stabilizationDemand Signals: Inventory rebuild or genuine end-market momentum?Pricing Trends: Where pricing power exists, and why North American producers are “winning”Regional Differences: Contrasting scenarios in North America, Europe, and AsiaDistributor and Specialty Market Performance: Who’s passing on costs and maintaining margin?The Management Playbook: How leaders are prioritizing cash generation, cost-cutting, and strategic readinessWhat’s Next: Key risks to watch in Q2 and beyond—including the threat of inventory hangover and profit margin compression Killer Quote: “The biggest risk as we go forward into 2026 isn’t weak demand or tepid margins. It’s making decisions and assumptions as if recovery has already arrived, as if the rest of the year is painting itself with clarity—because the old way is not coming back.”  - Victoria MeyerOther Links:Subscribe to The Chemical Show for weekly insights and analysis from chemical industry leaders.Want more? Sign up for our email list at https://www.thechemicalshow.comLike the show? Leave us a rating or review.
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  INSIGHT: 5 Fundamental Shifts Redefining Success In Chemicals - Ep. 263 28.04.2026 21min

  Five years of volatility have reshaped how chemical businesses define advantage. On this 5th anniversary episode of The Chemical Show, Victoria King Meyer uncovers the industry's most significant shifts since 2021, including the normalization of disruption, the move from efficiency to resilience in supply chains, and the new balance between global and local strategies. She shares how AI is transitioning from a side project to a core business driver, even as the industry lags behind, and why bold promises around sustainability are giving way to more disciplined action. ***** Ready to reshape your advantage in the chemical industry? Join Victoria Meyer and top leaders at this year’s Chemical Summit, happening September 29th and 30th in Houston, Texas. The theme:  Reshaping Advantage – with insights tools & discussions on how leaders gaining the upper hand through technology, leadership, talent, and more. Join the waitlist. Seats are limited, with priority for sponsors, past attendees, and those on the waitlist. Don’t miss your chance to be first in line when tickets become available—join the waitlist now at thechemicalsummit.com.***** Victoria outlines the traits of future winners in the chemical sector: those who act early, build operational resilience, and invest in new talent and digital transformation. Discover what it takes to not just respond to change, but to reshape your business and thrive in an environment where disruption has become business as usual. 
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  Supply Chains Under Stress | Live from AFPM International Petrochemical Conference 2026 - Ep. 262 21.04.2026 59min

  Once considered a back-office function, supply chain management has become crucial to business strategy as disruptions and geopolitical events reshape the chemical industry. Host Victoria Meyer is joined by Jennifer Jewson (LyondellBasell), Claudia Moshiri (Brenntag), and Chad Burke (Economic Alliance Houston Port Region) live from AFPM International Petrochemical Conference to discuss how companies are adapting—emphasizing flexibility, optionality, and visibility to stay resilient and competitive. The panel shares practical approaches to risk management, compliance, and digitization, while examining the challenges of infrastructure constraints and the rapid evolution of the global landscape. With insights on real-time disruptions like the Strait of Hormuz, the conversation offers valuable takeaways for industry professionals looking to strengthen supply chain resilience and capability for the future. Subscribe to The Chemical Show on YouTube  Listen in this week as Victoria and the Supply Chains Under Stress Panel discuss the following:  Supply chain moves to boardroom priority   Navigating real-time global disruptions   AI and data in decision making   Infrastructure and workforce under pressure   Building resilience and flexibility forward Killer Quote: "Supply chains aren’t just operational; they're not just back office. They're really strategic. They're really a strategic part of our businesses and the ability to make those tradeoffs, understand constraints, and really understand those consequences." — Victoria Meyer