Connect with The Chemical Show guests and industry leaders at The Chemical Summit on September 30 - October 1, 2025 in Houston, TX.
https://www.thechemicalsummit.com

How companies manage people and talent is rapidly changing—especially in the chemical industry where agility, performance, and well-being are now critical business drivers. Victoria Meyer is joined by Milan Taylor, partner at Mercer and featured speaker at the upcoming Chemical Summit, to discuss how workforce redesign, skill-based development, and the integration of technology like AI are shaping both challenges and opportunities for chemical companies. 

Victoria and Milan explore data-driven insights around HR priorities, the importance of aligning KPIs with business strategies, and the growing pressure on leaders to address employee stress and burnout. They also address practical strategies for small and midsize companies to maintain agility and foster growth—even with limited resources. Whether you’re a leader looking to refine your talent strategy or aiming to future-proof your workforce, this episode offers valuable, actionable perspectives for navigating today’s workforce transformation. 

Victoria and Milan investigate these themes this week: 

• People-First Performance: Empowering line managers to drive results. 
• Work redesign: Breaking jobs into skills and leveraging technology for agility. 
• Managing AI adoption benefits and risks in chemical workforces. 
• Addressing employee burnout and retention beyond just pay. 
• Scalable Growth: Practical development strategies for companies of all sizes. 

00:00 "Optimizing HR in Chemical Industry" 

05:38 Agility: Speed, Precision, Intent 

10:20 "Revolutionizing Work Through Automation" 

13:23 Realistic Project Management & Transformation 

17:24 HR's Cautious AI Adoption 

21:40 Top Employee Priorities: Pay & Benefits 

22:47 Workplace Strain Amid Economic Pressures 

26:25 Unrealistic Targets Drive Employee Exit 

32:23 Boost Engagement & Skills Transition 

33:38 "Keys to Authentic Professionalism" 

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Visit newrycorp.com and see the Newry team at The Chemical Summit. 

Connect with The Chemical Show guests and industry leaders at The Chemical Summit on September 30 - October 1, 2025 in Houston, TX.
https://www.thechemicalsummit.com

Economic uncertainty, supply chain complexity, and shifting global demand are shaping the chemical industry’s trajectory as businesses wrap up Q2 2025. Host Victoria Meyer unpacks the mixed earnings results from major chemical players and highlights what leaders need to focus on for the remainder of 2025 and into 2026. From confronting persistent weak demand and managing operational excellence, to navigating regionalization, cost discipline, and supply chain resilience—Victoria breaks down the core industry trends and reveals how specialties are outperforming commodities in today’s market landscape. 

Victoria also shares actionable insights for leaders: prioritize talent, double down on communication, and remain agile in both investment and innovation strategies. With business transformation and sustainability still at the forefront, this episode provides practical guidance to maximize opportunities and overcome current market challenges. Explore how industry leaders are preparing for future shifts—and why attending the upcoming Chemical Summit in Houston could be critical for your business and leadership growth. 

Victoria discusses the following: 

• Mixed Q2 2025 earnings: Chemical industry performance varies widely 
• Specialty outperforms commodity: Differentiation and regional focus drive success 
• Cost-cutting and cash preservation are top priorities for companies 
• Supply chain resilience: Regional diversification key amid disruption 
• Leadership priorities - Strategic planning, talent, innovation, and communication for 2026 

00:00 Q2 Insights in Chemical Industry 

05:40 Commodity Cost Cuts & Specialty Chemical Resilience 

10:15 Automotive Industry's Ongoing Struggles 

11:34 Rethinking Business Amid Global Shifts 

16:44 Smart, Nimble Investment Strategies 

20:49 Evolving Business and Sustainability Shift 

24:01 "Clear Communication is Key" 

25:04 "Be Ready for 2026 Opportunities" 

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Sponsored by Newry. Newry helps you uncover growth where you're built to win - fast.
Visit newrycorp.com and see the Newry team at The Chemical Summit. 

Connect with The Chemical Show guests and industry leaders at The Chemical Summit on September 30 - October 1, 2025 in Houston, TX.
https://www.thechemicalsummit.com

How is artificial intelligence changing the world of maritime shipping and the broader chemical industry supply chain? Victoria Meyer speaks with Per Ostman, VP of Product Management at Veson Nautical, to explore the impact of technology and data-driven solutions on shipping operations. Per shares how Veson Nautical integrates advanced software and AI-enabled workflows to help shipping companies manage complex data, enhance efficiency, and adapt to rapid changes in the marketplace. 

Victoria and Per dig into the speed and complexity of shipping data, the importance of system integration, and the role of AI in streamlining tasks like claims handling. The conversation also addresses the human side of technology adoption—how AI is transforming jobs, creating new opportunities, and driving a need for continual learning. With practical advice for industry professionals and real-world examples, this episode offers valuable insight into the intersection of technology, people, and progress in maritime shipping and chemicals. 

Victoria and Per explore the following topics: 

• Using AI and technology to accelerate maritime operations 
• How Veson transforms complex data into actionable supply chain intelligence. 
• Using AI to speed up demurrage claims assessment by 300%   
• Why AI augments rather than replaces human expertise in shipping. 
• Leadership advice for non-traditional career paths 

00:00 Classics Major's Unique Tech Perspective 

06:57 Veson Nautical's Integrated Maritime Solutions 

09:09 Navigating Complex Shipping Data 

12:51 Data Integration Challenges 

18:36 AI Streamlines Claims Demurrage Process 

23:20 AI Enhancing Claims Analyst Roles 

25:35 "Tech Solutions: Communication & Collaboration" 

29:31 Leadership Advice for Chemical Industry Entrants 

30:54 Embrace Uniqueness, Pursue Passions 

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Sponsored by Newry. Newry helps you uncover growth where you're built to win - fast.
Visit newrycorp.com and see the Newry team at The Chemical Summit. 

Connect with The Chemical Show guests and industry leaders at The Chemical Summit on September 30 - October 1, 2025 in Houston, TX.
https://www.thechemicalsummit.com

With business leaders facing volatile headlines and uncertainty heading into 2026, understanding the real economic signals has never mattered more. Principal Economists Jeremy Bess and Patrick Luce of Stantec join host Victoria Meyer to break down the trends shaping the chemical industry, from the current state of macroeconomic headwinds and tailwinds to the impact of policy moves, interest rates, and global demand. Together, they discuss how companies can separate data from sentiment, apply scenario planning, and stress-test their outlooks in a dynamic marketplace. 

Victoria, Jeremy, and Patrick explore the hard financial data leaders should be monitoring—ranging from bookings, backlogs, and billings to corporate profitability and the health of the consumer. They highlight how strategic pricing, scenario analysis, and a keen eye on the bond market can help chemical leaders build resilient plans for 2026 and beyond. The episode wraps with practical leadership advice for navigating unpredictability and maintaining confidence during uncertain times. 

Victoria, Jeremy, and Patrick discuss the following: 

• 2025–2026 Chemical Outlook: Modest growth expected and key market signals for decision-makers. 
• Strategic planning approaches for uncertain economic conditions and scenario testing. 
• How tariffs, taxes, and regulations in major markets impact chemicals. 
• Data Over Hype: Focus on financial metrics (bookings, backlogs, billings) vs. market sentiment. 
• Leading Through Uncertainty: Practical strategies for confident leadership during volatile times. 

00:00 Chemical Summit 2025 Preview 

05:08 "Planning with a Macroeconomic Focus" 

10:15 "Business Growth Analysis Essentials" 

13:10 2026 Economic Outlook Challenges 

17:30 Plan for Contingencies, Stress Test 

21:07 Rising Interest Payments: Global Impact 

25:06 Strategic Pricing Amid Inflation Challenges 

28:03 Focus on Hard Financial Data 

31:28 Consumer Resilience Amid Economic Changes 

33:02 Chemical Market's Post-Peak Adjustments 

37:23 Bond Market's Impact on Mortgages 

39:09 "Confidence in Informed Decisions" 

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Sponsored by Newry. Newry helps you uncover growth where you're built to win - fast.
Visit newrycorp.com and see the Newry team at The Chemical Summit. 

Connect with The Chemical Show guests and industry leaders at The Chemical Summit on September 30 - October 1, 2025 in Houston, TX.
https://www.thechemicalsummit.com

Can environmental biotech finally crack the code on PFAS, “forever chemicals,” and other persistent pollutants? Ray Sambrotto, CEO of Allied Microbiota, joins Victoria Meyer to share how advances in microbial technology are reshaping the landscape of remediation in the chemical industry. With a foundation in environmental microbiology and years of academic research, Ray explains his journey from oceanography to entrepreneurship, revealing how precise strains of bacteria can tackle tough contaminants—speeding up processes previously measured in years down to mere weeks. 

Victoria and Ray discuss the shift from traditional clean-up methods to scalable, biologically driven solutions for soil and wastewater. The conversation covers regulatory hurdles, the integration of AI for microbial discovery, and how collaboration between specialty biotech firms and established engineering players can expedite commercial scale-up. As regulatory standards tighten and the demand for cost-effective cleanup grows, Allied Microbiota’s approach signals a new era where biology is not just an afterthought but a strategic asset in achieving industrial and environmental goals. 

Victoria and Ray discuss the following topics in this week's episode: 

• Transforming university research into commercial products 
•  Utilizing microbiology to break down "forever chemicals" in soil and water faster. 
•  Building strategic partnerships to enable scale-up
•  How AI and machine learning can accelerate development

00:00 Chemical Industry Innovators Podcast 

05:01 Bioremediation Challenges: Emerging Contaminants 

08:39 Bioremediation of Contaminated Soil 

11:35 Environmental Engineering Permitting Strategy 

12:51 PFAS Breakdown: Cost-Effective Alternatives 

16:28 Proactive Industrial Waste Management Solutions 

22:18 Academic vs. Industrial Challenges 

24:23 "Join & Share: The Chemical Show" 

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Sponsored by Newry. Newry helps you uncover growth where you're built to win - fast.
Visit newrycorp.com and see the Newry team at The Chemical Summit. 

Connect with The Chemical Show guests and industry leaders at The Chemical Summit on September 30 - October 1, 2025 in Houston, TX.
https://www.thechemicalsummit.com

At the midpoint of 2025, the chemical industry is navigating a turbulent landscape marked by geopolitical conflicts, trade uncertainties, and shifting supply-demand dynamics. Host Victoria Meyer examines how leaders are driving innovation during times of economic uncertainty, sharing recent insights from established and emerging companies including Hexion, Lummus Technology, Pilot Chemical, Lanzatech, and others. She explores how companies can break out of the “we’ve always done it this way” mindset, overcome barriers to change, and embrace both incremental and disruptive innovation. 

Victoria highlights practical strategies for fostering an innovation mindset—ranging from creating psychological safety for risk-taking to encouraging diverse internal and external partnerships. She underscores the importance of balancing operational excellence with a willingness to experiment, empowering teams to learn from failures, and aligning incentives to support new ideas. With a focus on actionable practices, this episode provides chemical industry professionals with a roadmap for building resilient, future-ready organizations. 

Victoria breaks down these topics in this week's episode: 

• How chemical industry leaders stay resilient and innovative amid uncertainty. 
• Building change-embracing cultures over traditional approaches 
• Creating safe spaces for innovation. 
• Accelerating innovation through strategic partnerships 
• Strategies for embedding small and large improvements into daily operations. 

Additional Links:  

"This is how we do it" 

00:00 Balancing Innovation and Stability 

05:56 Breaking the "We've Always Done It" Mindset 

09:17 Embrace Change and Innovate 

13:21 "Driving Innovation through Diverse Partnerships" 

18:15 "Prioritizing Communication in Innovation" 

19:42 Innovation and Human Collaboration 

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Sponsored by Newry. Newry helps you uncover growth where you're built to win - fast.
Visit newrycorp.com and see the Newry team at The Chemical Summit. 

Connect with The Chemical Show guests and industry leaders at The Chemical Summit on September 30 - October 1, 2025 in Houston, TX.
https://www.thechemicalsummit.com

How does a century-old technology company stay at the forefront of industrial innovation? Leon de Bruyn, CEO of Lummus Technology, joins host Victoria Meyer to share Lummus’s transformation story and the company’s unique approach to navigating change in the chemical industry. Leon reflects on Lummus’s evolution into an independent, pure-play technology leader, the challenges and opportunities in a rapidly changing market, and why fostering a culture of fearless innovation is critical to success. 

Victoria and Leon explore the balance between traditional and sustainable technologies, the practical steps chemical businesses can take toward decarbonization, and the strategic role of digitalization and AI in modernizing asset performance and project execution. With real-world examples of rapid commercialization and thoughtful insights on talent, culture, and the future of process technology, this conversation offers a fresh look at how established companies can lead and adapt in today’s chemical sector. 

On this episode, Victoria and Leon explore the following topics: 

• Lummus Technology from a 100-year-old firm into an innovation leader. 
• How Lummus is balancing growth in traditional and new, sustainable solutions
• How encouraging quick ideas, rapid testing, and smart risks speed up product development and market response. 
• Striking a balance between new investments and ongoing process support during economic changes.
• How AI and digital tools are changing how Lummus designs, operates, and improves chemical facilities. 

Additional Links:  

How Lummus Technology is Applying Startup Energy to a Legacy Business with Leon de Bruyn 

00:00 "Lummus: Renewing a Century-Old Legacy" 

03:48 "Revitalizing a Legacy Tech Brand" 

07:23 Circular Polymers, Water, and Biomass 

10:52 Fearless Innovation through Open Ideas 

15:49 Optimizing Investments & Asset Lifecycle 

18:57 Energy Industry's Environmental Responsibility 

20:55 Optimizing Petrochemical Investments 

25:16 AI Integration Boosts Industrial Efficiency 

29:36 Balancing Data Security and Innovation 

33:28 Innovation and Passion Fuel Success 

35:47 AI's Impact on Design Speed 

38:01 "Engineering: Challenges and Rewards" 

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Sponsored by Newry. Newry helps you uncover growth where you're built to win - fast.
Visit newrycorp.com and see the Newry team at The Chemical Summit. 

Connect with The Chemical Show guests and industry leaders at The Chemical Summit on September 30 - October 1, 2025 in Houston, TX.
https://www.thechemicalsummit.com

Transforming a 150-year-old chemical business into a technology-driven solutions provider requires both innovative thinking and strategic agility. Michael Lefenfeld, President and CEO of Hexion Incorporated, joins host Victoria Meyer to discuss the company’s evolution from its roots as Borden to leading the engineered wood industry with advanced adhesives, resins, and AI-powered manufacturing systems. Michael shares how Hexion’s focus on customer-centered solutions, digitalization, and strategic partnerships is driving rapid change, while also navigating global market pressures and evolving workforce needs. 

Victoria and Michael explore the role of artificial intelligence in modern manufacturing, from boosting product quality and sustainability to supporting workforce upskilling. The conversation extends to lessons in leadership and innovation, including Michael’s advice for young professionals on staying curious and building diverse teams. This episode offers actionable insights for chemical industry professionals facing transformation and rising expectations in an increasingly complex market. 

Victoria and Michael discuss the following topics: 

• How Hexion evolved from a 150-year-old chemical supplier into a customer-focused, technology-driven solutions company. 
• Running a chemical business with PE speed: fast decisions, strategic pivots, and compressed timelines. 
• Leveraging partnerships and external innovation 
• Deploying AI systems to boost operational efficiency and reshape workforce skills. 
• Building successful chemical careers through curiosity, diverse thinking, and strategic humility. 

Killer Quote: "We believe that there are great innovations everywhere, and we want to be partnered with the best in what they do and provide our capabilities, our strengths to make them get to market faster.” - Michael Lefenfeld 

00:00 Innovative Career in Tech Transformation 

03:18 "Journey into Private Equity" 

07:30 Hexion's Innovation-Driven Transformation 

10:25 Localized Manufacturing Minimizes Tariff Impact 

16:16 Hexion's Innovative AI and Sustainability 

18:46 Introducing SmartPress: AI-Driven System 

21:07 AI-Enhanced Custom Glue Solutions 

24:13 "AI Empowers Uniform Operator Upskilling" 

27:48 Stay Curious, Ask Questions 

30:37 Interdisciplinary Innovation Key 

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Sponsored by Newry. Newry helps you uncover growth where you're built to win - fast.
Visit newrycorp.com and see the Newry team at The Chemical Summit. 

Connect with The Chemical Show guests and industry leaders at The Chemical Summit on September 30 - October 1, 2025 in Houston, TX.
https://www.thechemicalsummit.com

Great leadership is forged through adversity, not comfort. Leadership expert Jeff Hancher joins host Victoria Meyer to explore the evolving challenges of leading teams in today’s chemical industry—where post-pandemic disruption, hybrid work, and rising mental health concerns are reshaping expectations. Jeff shares how growing up in poverty, serving in the military, and climbing the corporate ladder from truck driver to senior leader shaped his views on feedback, resilience, and mentorship. 

Victoria and Jeff discuss the mechanics of effective feedback, how to build robust leadership skills in a volatile world, and why personal investment in growth and mentorship is more critical than ever. Drawing from Jeff’s new book, "Firm Feedback in a Fragile World," and personal stories from the chemical sector and beyond, this conversation delivers actionable insights for leaders tackling retention, talent development, and organizational change. 

Get additional insights on: 

• The changing landscape of leadership and how to build and apply leadership skills 
• Jeff Hancher's career journey and how mentorship shapes professional success at every level. 
• Strategies for delivering honest, clear feedback while maintaining trust and team morale. 
• How to leverage AI, digitization, and supply chain challenges as opportunities for leadership growth. 
• Practical tactics for finding mentors, building confidence, and becoming a leader others respect and follow. 

Killer Quote: "It's not the load that weighs you down, it's how you carry it. The greater the adversity, the greater the opportunity for impact."  —Jeff Hancher 

Additional Links: 

Check out Jeff Hancher’s book “Firm Feedback in a Fragile World” here.

00:00 "Path to Higher Education" 

03:34 Unexpected Career Path at Cintas 

07:54 Leadership Challenges Amid Industry Disruptions 

11:16 Leadership Through Adversity 

16:52 Navigating Career and Family Dynamics 

18:41 Leaders Beyond Business Results 

22:32 Leadership vs. Product: The Cultural Impact 

25:51 Leadership Under Stress: Managing Reactions 

29:51 Shift Perspective, Lead Resiliently 

32:20 Mentor's Impact on Sales Career 

35:15 Ultimatum at a Crossroads 

37:22 Leadership's Impact on Personal Growth 

42:29 Finding a Mentor: Simple Strategy 

44:20 Evaluate Your Investment in Success 

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Sponsored by Newry. Newry helps you uncover growth where you're built to win - fast.
Visit newrycorp.com and see the Newry team at The Chemical Summit. 

Connect with The Chemical Show guests and industry leaders at The Chemical Summit on September 30 - October 1, 2025 in Houston, TX.
https://www.thechemicalsummit.com

Leadership transitions can shape the future of entire industries. With Jennifer Abril stepping into the role of President and CEO at the American Cleaning Institute (ACI), host Victoria Meyer spotlights Jennifer’s unique leadership journey, her approach to driving transformation, and the qualities that make her a strong fit for ACI. Through selected highlights from previous conversations, listeners gain insights into Jennifer’s background in advocacy, coalition building, and the importance of strategic alignment across diverse industry groups. 

The episode unpacks key themes such as the challenges of balancing member needs, the strategic acquisition of industry events, and how trade associations are adapting to dynamic supply chains and shifting market demands. With a look at signs of industry change and priorities for the future, the conversation offers valuable perspective for chemical industry professionals interested in leadership, organizational transformation, and what lies ahead for ACI under Jennifer’s guidance. 

Get additional insights on: 

• Leadership in Transition: Jennifer Abril's move from SOCMA to the American Cleaning Institute 
• How SOCMA and ACI connect diverse members and shape specialty chemical manufacturing's future. 
• Jennifer's approach to reinventing trade association value—from reclaiming events to meeting evolving member needs. 
• Industry responses to localization, reshoring, and policy shifts in building adaptable business models. 
• Key trends and regulatory impacts chemical professionals should monitor under Jennifer's leadership. 

00:00 "Five Questions with Jennifer Brill" 

05:27 "Future Insights & Signposts" 

07:07 Unexpected Career Path in Chemistry 

13:20 Industry Insight and Responsive Solutions 

16:01 Rise in Localization and Reshoring Efforts 

17:49 Federal Workforce Transition Challenges 

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Sponsored by Newry. Newry helps you uncover growth where you're built to win - fast.
Visit newrycorp.com and see the Newry team at The Chemical Summit.