The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk Business

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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

  Real decisions. Trusted peers. The Chemical Executive Mastermind. Learn more and apply.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 
• How Leading Companies are Reshaping Chemical Industry Landscape in 2026 - Ep. 269 23.06.2026 17min

  Real decisions. Trusted peers. The Chemical Executive Mastermind. Learn more and apply.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 
• 5 Critical Success Factors for Enterprise AI Success | Beyond the Chat Prompt with Victoria King Meyer - Ep. 268 16.06.2026 16min

  Real decisions. Trusted peers. The Chemical Executive Mastermind. Learn more and apply.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 
• Unlocking ROI with AI in Chemicals | Insights from Kendall Justiniano - Ep. 267 09.06.2026 32min

  Real decisions. Trusted peers. The Chemical Executive Mastermind. Learn more and apply.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 
• Business of Beauty: 5 Key Insights from NYSCC Suppliers' Day 2026 - Ep. 266 02.06.2026 18min

  Real decisions. Trusted peers. The Chemical Executive Mastermind. Learn more and apply.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 
• Tech Transfer, Innovation, and the Future of Chemicals with Cameron Begley - Ep. 265 26.05.2026 1t 17min

  Real decisions. Trusted peers. The Chemical Executive Mastermind. Learn more and apply.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/
• Q1 Chemical Earnings are Sending Mixed Signals - Ep. 264 19.05.2026 24min

  Real decisions. Trusted peers. The Chemical Executive Mastermind. Learn more and apply.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.
• 5 Fundamental Shifts Redefining Success In Chemicals - Ep. 263 28.04.2026 21min

  Real decisions. Trusted peers. The Chemical Executive Mastermind. Learn more and apply.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. 
• Supply Chains Under Stress | Live from AFPM International Petrochemical Conference 2026 - Ep. 262 21.04.2026 59min

  Real decisions. Trusted peers. The Chemical Executive Mastermind. Learn more and apply.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 
• How Policy Impacts Competitiveness with Chris Jahn of American Chemistry Council - Ep. 261 14.04.2026 23min

  Real decisions. Trusted peers. The Chemical Executive Mastermind. Learn more and apply.Trade uncertainty, regulatory hurdles, and rail consolidation are reshaping the U.S. chemical sector’s path to competitiveness. Chris Jahn, President and CEO of the American Chemistry Council, sits down with host Victoria Meyer to break down how shifting tariff policies, global supply chain complexity, and potential rail mergers are influencing costs, innovation, and industry alignment. Chris and Victoria also examine the urgent need for TSCA reform to speed up chemical approvals and keep American manufacturing globally competitive. The conversation highlights how effective advocacy, targeted regulation, and smarter infrastructure policies will be critical for the industry’s future success. Additional Links:  Sustainability Starts with Chemistry with ACC CEO Chris Jahn Subscribe to The Chemical Show on YouTube  Join us this week as Victoria and Chris discuss the following: In-Person connections drive industry alignment  Trade policy uncertainty impacts U.S. competitiveness  Rail mergers threaten costs and agility  TSCA delays hinder U.S. chemical innovation  Leadership Focus: Prioritizing through industry complexity   Killer Quote: "If you're waiting for all the information to be certain that you're right, you're never going to move quickly enough because that uncertainty is never going to go away. So you have to make the best decision you can with the information you have and then have the agility to pivot and move as you need to going forward." - Chris Jahn  ***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 
• Bringing Chemical Innovation to Market with Eric Appelman of Aduro Clean Technologies - Ep. 260 07.04.2026 30min

  Real decisions. Trusted peers. The Chemical Executive Mastermind. Learn more and apply.Scaling up chemical recycling technologies is transforming how the industry tackles plastics waste and circularity. Eric Appelman, Chief Revenue Officer of Aduro Clean Technologies, joins Victoria Meyer to discuss Aduro’s journey, from innovative pilot projects to a commercial demonstration plant in the Netherlands, following their NASDAQ listing. The conversation covers the challenges of commercializing and financing new technology, the crucial role of established partners, and the value of risk management in scaling sustainable solutions. Victoria and Eric also dig into how regulations, market expectations, and infrastructure are impacting the adoption of recycled plastics. Their discussion offers practical insights for business leaders looking to build resilient, growth-oriented companies in the evolving landscape of chemical recycling.  Additional Links:  How To Scale Sustainable TechnologySubscribe to The Chemical Show on YouTube Listen in as Victoria and Eric discuss the following: Aduro’s breakthrough approach to plastics recycling    Moving from lab innovation to commercial plant   Market shifts: from promises to practicality   Regulation’s impact on plastics circularity   Leadership lessons for chemical industry startups Killer Quote: "You as a leader, are you able to take the blows? Because in the 10 to 15 years to market, the world is going to go through at least 3 radical changes… That ability, that agility is crucial.” - Eric Appelman 
• How War with Iran Affects Chemicals | Insights from WPC and WCF 2026 - Ep. 259 31.03.2026 32min

  Real decisions. Trusted peers. The Chemical Executive Mastermind. Learn more and apply.Geopolitics, energy volatility, and persistent oversupply are reshaping the global chemical industry as 2025 draws to a close. Victoria Meyer sits down with Kurt Barrow and Andrew Neale from S&P Global to address the forces driving today’s market dynamics, the impact of government policies, and the shifting landscape heading into 2026. They break down how new sanctions, tariffs, and energy transition policies are influencing everything from oil prices and supply chains to chemical production strategies worldwide. Related episode: Strait of Hormuz Crisis - How Supply Chains Are Affected Globally - Ep 257The episode explores regional strengths and vulnerabilities, with North America, the Middle East, and China taking leading roles amid rationalization and capacity closures in Europe and South Korea. Kurt Barrow and Andrew Neale share insights on how chemical producers are responding to cost shifts, supply chain resets, and evolving consumer demand. The conversation also previewed the upcoming World Petrochemical Conference and CERAWeek, emphasizing the need for industry leaders to stay agile in response to accelerated change, emerging technologies, and global market imbalances.  Victoria, Kurt, and Andrew discuss the following this week:  Why government action, oversupply, and shifting demand are redefining 2025 in the chemical markets. How new sanctions, oil movements, and policy shifts impact feedstocks and chemical production. Real-world examples of how canal disruptions, freight rate swings, and tariffs are reshaping global sourcing. Regional winners and losers as energy prices, assets, and investments shift across Europe, China, and the US. Key strategies for chemical leaders navigating consolidation, energy transition, and market shifts ahead.  Killer Quote:  "We’ve gone from that globalization to regionalization—that almost helps some of your high cost players very short term...that’s a very near term. How long that lasts if we have another round of tariff movements—European, and we will, but European, I don’t know what it is, but we will in Q2."  —Andrew Neale ***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 
• How AI is Shaping Energy & Petrochemical Landscape with Amy Jaffe of NYU - Ep. 258 24.03.2026 31min

  Real decisions. Trusted peers. The Chemical Executive Mastermind. Learn more and apply.AI’s rapid growth is transforming the energy landscape, sparking critical questions about grid reliability, electricity costs, and future solutions. Host Victoria Meyer talks with Amy Myers Jaffe of NYU to discuss how data centers are pressuring regional grids, why battery storage and grid flexibility matter, and what new market rules could mean for consumers and industry. The conversation highlights how AI can also drive innovation in materials and manufacturing for the chemical industry, pointing to both challenges and opportunities as energy demand and technology reshape the sector.  Additional Links:  Top Risk Trends for Chemicals, Energy, & Mining in 2026 Subscribe to The Chemical Show on YouTube  Join Victoria and Julie this week as they explore the following topics:  Evolving from journalist to global energy thought leader. AI’s Energy Impact: increasing and shifting electricity demand Batteries and AI are enabling smarter, more flexible energy management. Rising electricity costs spark debate on fair pricing structures. AI fuels chemical innovation and advances sustainable manufacturing. Killer Quote: "Electricity is the new gasoline." - Amy Jaffe 
• Strait of Hormuz Crisis: How Oil and Chemicals Are Affected Worldwide with Farid Tahvildari - Ep. 257 17.03.2026 29min

  Real decisions. Trusted peers. The Chemical Executive Mastermind. Learn more and apply.Stranded ships and blocked oil routes in the Strait of Hormuz are causing far-reaching disruptions across the global chemical industry. NUCO Logistics Managing Director Farid Tahvildari joins host Victoria Meyer to explain how the Iran war has sparked shipping delays, rising surcharges, and new uncertainties—impacting everything from inventory planning to supply chain strategy for chemical companies. Victoria and Farid cover practical actions businesses should take, including diversifying suppliers and preparing for shifting tariffs and paperwork challenges. The conversation also highlights the geopolitical implications for Asia and China, and Farid shares a personal leadership perspective on navigating ongoing crisis and change.  Additional Links:  Red Sea Shipping Issues and Resolutions Subscribe to The Chemical Show on YouTube  Join Victoria and Farid this week as they explore the following topics:  Strait of Hormuz Crisis and shipping impact   Surging costs and supply chain Disruption   China, India, and Geopolitical oil shifts   Adapting: Diversified suppliers and crisis lessons   Leadership and navigating uncertainty in crisis Killer Quote:  "There is no such a thing as normal anymore, at least for foreseeable future." - Farid Tahvildari 
• Digital First Customer Journey in Chemicals with Julie Roberts of ChemPoint - Ep. 256 10.03.2026 38min

  Real decisions. Trusted peers. The Chemical Executive Mastermind. Learn more and apply.ChemPoint’s digital-first model is reshaping the chemical distribution landscape by pairing technology-driven sales with a personal touch. Director of Supplier Growth Julie Roberts joins Victoria Meyer to discuss ChemPoint’s evolution from inside sales pioneers to leveraging AI and real-time data for specialty chemicals. Julie highlights the importance of meeting customers where they are—online and offline—while creating value through technical content and rapid response. Victoria and Julie touch on global industry trends, supply chain shifts, and the need for adaptive leadership in a changing market. Their conversation offers practical insight for industry professionals—whether you’re navigating digital transformation, strengthening customer relationships, or leading teams through uncertainty.  Subscribe to The Chemical Show on YouTube  Join Victoria and Julie this week as they explore the following topics:  ChemPoint’s digital-first approach to chemical distribution How AI is transforming workflows and customer experiences Tackling market shifts and supply chain challenges   Global expansion and adapting to regional market changes   Leadership, diversity, and success for women in chemicals  Killer Quote:  "Don't be afraid to take risks. The answer is always going to be no if you don't ask the question." -Julie Roberts***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 
• Jennifer Abril, ACI at 100, and the Future of the Cleaning Industry - Ep. 255 03.03.2026 19min

  Real decisions. Trusted peers. The Chemical Executive Mastermind. Learn more and apply.Record attendance, industry transformation, and the push for science-backed clarity are setting the tone for the American Cleaning Institute’s centennial year. Jennifer Abril, ACI’s new leader, joins host Victoria Meyer to share how the organization is meeting member demands for authoritative guidance and consumer trust amidst regulatory pressures and rapid industry change. Jennifer provides a behind-the-scenes look at the priorities for 2026; getting new chemistries to market, modernizing regulatory processes like TSCA, and redefining ACI’s “North Star” for the future. The conversation highlights the importance of innovation, policy modernization, and strategic leadership as ACI celebrates its 100th anniversary and positions itself for the challenges and opportunities of a new century. Subscribe to The Chemical Show on YouTube Listen in as Victoria and April discuss the following: ACI’s 100th anniversary: new era, leadership, and vision   Science-driven advocacy and combating industry misinformation   Leading industry transformation and embracing innovation   Regulatory hurdles and TSCA modernization efforts   Jennifer Abril’s vision: partnerships and strategic direction  Killer Quote: "We really believe that consumers are looking for a trusted authoritative body. That's a responsibility that we have and it is a responsibility that our member companies have specifically asked me to lead the organization into - to really step into that gap." - Jennifer Abril Additional Links:  Five Key Questions for Jennifer Abril: Leadership, Transformation, and the Future of Chemicals The Different Impacts Of Chemical Industry That We Rarely Realize With Melissa Hockstad    ***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 
• Chemical M&A Trends for 2026: Insights from Jon Glapa of Grace Matthews - Ep. 254 24.02.2026 26min

  Real decisions. Trusted peers. The Chemical Executive Mastermind. Learn more and apply.Uncertainty is fading and M&A activity is heating up in the chemicals and materials industry for 2026. Host Victoria King Meyer speaks with Jon Glapa of Grace Matthews about why the year ahead is shaping up to be strong for dealmaking. They discuss how greater strategic clarity, market stability, and disciplined capital deployment are spurring renewed confidence among buyers and sellers. Victoria and Jon explore the contrasting approaches of private equity and strategic buyers; the pitfalls mid-market companies face in M&A preparation, and actionable leadership advice for chemical executives. The conversation centers on the need for early preparation, customer focus, and a clear five-year vision as keys to navigating the evolving landscape of deals and growth. Subscribe to The Chemical Show on YouTube Victoria and Jon expand on the following topics:  Inside Chemical M&A: What makes a company an attractive target   Navigating uncertainty and how leaders managed 2025’s volatile market   Key drivers behind deal valuations and multiples   Private Equity vs. Strategics: Who’s winning chemical industry deals?   Preparing your business for future transactions  Killer Quote: "I tend to think of uncertainty as the enemy of M&A. You can navigate through certain dynamics, but when uncertainty increases, it becomes more and more challenging." – Jon Glapa  ***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 
• Overcapacity or Opportunity? Critical Chemical Decisions Shaping 2026 with Steve Lewandowski and Adrian Calcaneo of OPIS - Ep. 253 17.02.2026 37min

  Real decisions. Trusted peers. The Chemical Executive Mastermind. Learn more and apply.The dramatic rise of AI, shifting geopolitics, and industry overcapacity are putting energy and chemicals at a crossroads. Victoria Meyer sits down with Steve Lewandowski and Adrian Calcaneo of Chemical Market Analytics to unpack how these forces are driving volatility and change across global markets. From increased US exports of natural gas liquids to oversupplied chemical sectors and the challenges facing Europe and Asia, the discussion lays out the most immediate pressures—and potential responses—for the industry. The episode features a candid look at rationalization needs, the evolving role of integrated oil and chemical businesses, and how AI is influencing energy use and operational strategy. It’s an essential listen for industry professionals navigating today’s shifting landscape and planning for what’s next. Subscribe to The Chemical Show on YouTube Register for the World Chemical Forum with code: CHEMSHOW15 Victoria, Steve and Adrian discuss the following:  The force shaping industry direction Adapting to a shifting business landscape Building stronger consumer connections Evolving approaches to product effectiveness Navigating today’s competitive environment  Killer Quote: "For me, in chemicals, more rationalizations are going to be announced. It's just impossible not to happen because cash flow is just too big of a problem right now. No matter where, where oil goes, you know, those guys running heavier feeds are still going to be weak on margin. ... You’ve got to survive today, but you’ve also got to plan for tomorrow. So don't lose sight of things coming, you know, in the future." — 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 
• Inside ACI Annual Meeting 2026: Strategic Trends Shaping Cleaning Products - Ep. 252 10.02.2026 14min

  Real decisions. Trusted peers. The Chemical Executive Mastermind. Learn more and apply.Science continues to shape the cleaning products industry, but trust and pragmatism are driving real decisions. Host Victoria King Meyer reports back from the American Cleaning Institute’s 100th annual conference, highlighting five essential themes impacting chemical and cleaning product businesses. From scalable sustainable solutions and the power of consumer-driven labeling to the need for clearer regulatory pathways, industry leaders are focused on connecting chemistry and biology to practical needs. These insights provide a smart look at how cleaning product companies are balancing innovation, consumer expectations, and regulatory hurdles as they work to grow and adapt in 2026.  Victoria examines these topics in this week: The force shaping industry direction Adapting to a shifting business landscape Building stronger consumer connections Evolving approaches to product effectiveness Navigating today’s competitive environment   Killer Quote: "So if I was going to talk about one overall theme, and this is the theme that's going to run through everything I talk about today, it's science." - Victoria Meyer Subscribe to The Chemical Show on YouTube  ***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 
• How Regional Focus Shapes Customer Partnerships with LSB Industries CEO Mark Behrman - Ep. 251 03.02.2026 29min

  Real decisions. Trusted peers. The Chemical Executive Mastermind. Learn more and apply.From investment banking to the CEO seat at LSB Industries, Mark Behrman joins Victoria Meyer to discuss strategic transformation, market dynamics, and leadership in the chemical industry. Hear how LSB evolved from a traditional industrial conglomerate to a leading North American ammonia and nitric acid producer through operational integration, a focus on people, and strong customer partnerships. They also cover how LSB is approaching digitalization, AI, and sustainability—with a spotlight on their upcoming carbon capture project in Arkansas. Mark shares practical leadership lessons for both seasoned executives and industry newcomers, emphasizing curiosity, culture, and long-term vision.  Victoria and Mark discuss the following:  From Wall Street to CEO: Mark’s unique path to leadership.  How focus and culture reshaped LSB Industries.    Navigating regional dynamics and tariff impacts of Ammonia.   People First: The central role of culture in company success.    LSB’s journey with digital, sustainability, and efficiency. Killer Quote:"It's really all about the people. If you get a really good team of people that have the same common goal, same values, same drive, same level of curiosity, then they just figure out how to get things done." -Mark Behrman Subscribe to The Chemical Show on YouTube  ***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