The Chemical Show: Leadership Conversations on Strategy, Supply Chain, Innovation, Talent and Trends

By Victoria King MeyerBusiness News Business News Management

The Chemical Show: Leadership Conversations on Strategy, Supply Chain, Innovation, Talent and Trends episodes

January 07, 2025The State of Chemicals M&A with Kevin Yttre of Grace Matthews - Ep 196
Reflecting on the state of mergers and acquisitions in the chemicals and materials industries for 2024 and looking ahead to 2025, Kevin Yttre, President and Managing Director at Grace Matthews, joins host Victoria Meyer on The Chemical Show. Following recent supply chain disruptions and unpredictable business performance, Kevin shares his insights on the improved conditions that have led to increased deal activity and optimism for the future. Emphasizing the importance of steady-state performance for valuation, they discuss the evolving competitive landscape, including heightened interest from private equity and international firms.
Victoria and Kevin discuss the increasing sophistication of M&A processes, underscoring the necessity for thorough due diligence and strategic preparation. They explore the ongoing interest from international companies, the influence of private equity in driving competition, and the external factors impacting market stability. Kevin also provides career advice on transitioning into investment banking, highlighting the pivotal role of an MBA and other pathways within the industry. This episode offers valuable insights into the current and future trends in the chemicals and materials sector's mergers and acquisitions landscape, setting the stage for what's to come in 2025.

Join us to learn more about the following topics this week:
Observations and assessments on chemicals and materials M&A activity in 2024
Valuation trends in 2024: The current methodologies and commonly used markers for chemical businesses
Analyzing the current competitive landscape through private equity activity and the availability of capital
Critical factors in M&A in 2025
Leadership and career pathways in M&A

Killer Quote: "Predictability in company performance is key to easier valuation and transaction processes in M&A. Surprises are rarely welcome in this field—steady-state performance is what truly drives value." -- Kevin Yttre

Other links:
Download: 10 Leadership Lessons for Chemical Executives
Download: 7 Trends Shaping the Future of the Chemical Industry
Ep 106: Insights to M&A in Chemical and Materials Industry with Kevin Yttre
Grace Matthews Newsletter: Momentum Building into 2025: Strategies for M&A Success (Winter 2024)

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
32 min
December 31, 2024Enhancing Product Safety and Innovation: Insights from Greg Adamson of Givaudan - Ep 195
Discover how microscopic quantities of ingredients can make a monumental difference in everyday products. Victoria Meyer talks with Greg Adamson, Senior VP at Givaudan, about the world of fragrances and flavors. Greg brings insights from his journey as a toxicologist, touching on his experiences in both biotech and the household and consumer products industry. They dive into Givaudan’s crucial role in creating tastes and scents that are ever-present in our daily lives, and the complex regulations that ensure their safety and efficacy.

Greg and Victoria explore the intricate dance between innovation and regulation. From influencing global chemical policies to ensuring that industry practices align with stringent safety standards, Greg discusses how Givaudan navigates these challenges. They also address the critical distinction between hazard and risk, and the pursuit of standardized regulations to simplify global operations. For those in the chemical industry or simply curious about the science behind everyday smells and tastes, this episode sheds light on the innovative and regulatory landscape of flavors and fragrances.

Join us to learn more about the following topics this week:
Greg's career moves from Australian toxicologist to leading global regulatory
Givaudan's presence in consumer products and the importance of HCPA
Regulatory priorities and challenges: striving for national standardized regulations to increase innovation in chemicals
The importance of educating regulators and stakeholders on hazards versus risks
The importance of leading with passion

Killer Quote: " What I find amazing and actually just a great reflection of our industry is that we are in a global industry, and people are interested in listening and learning from each other in this global marketplace." —Victoria Meyer

Other links:
Download: 10 Leadership Lessons for Chemical Executives
Download: 7 Trends Shaping the Future of the Chemical Industry

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
16 min
December 24, 20242024 Wrapped: Highlights from The Chemical Show - Ep. 194
Wrap up the year with the best of The Chemical Show! Host Victoria Meyer reflects on 2024 by spotlighting the top five episodes, sharing fun facts about the global audience, and revealing the intriguing listening habits of chemical enthusiasts. From the impact of global markets and sustainability advancements to the significance of strategic timing and audience engagement, this episode offers a comprehensive review of the podcast's most compelling moments and influential guests.
Uncover insights from industry leaders like John Richardson, Eric Appelman, and Garab Chakrabarti, while also exploring fascinating data about what makes The Chemical Show listeners unique. With highlights on market outlooks, timely news, and shared episodes, Victoria provides a captivating rewind of the year. Plus, get your hands on the top 10 leadership lessons and the seven trends guide for 2024 — your perfect year-end gifts!
Join us to learn more about the following topics this week:
Listener demographics including where and how they engage
Top audio episode
Top video episode
Most shared episodes
Most frequent guest
Episode prompting the most phone calls
What it takes to be a top 5 episode

Killer Quote: " What I find amazing and actually just a great reflection of our industry is that we are in a global industry, and people are interested in listening and learning from each other in this global marketplace." —Victoria Meyer

Other links:
Download: 10 Leadership Lessons for Chemical Executives
Download: 7 Trends Shaping the Future of the Chemical Industry
Ep 144: Petrochemicals in 2024: Capacity Overbuild and Codependent Markets with John Richardson of ICIS
Ep 145: 2024 Chemical Market Outlook with Steve Lewandowski of Chemical Market Analytics
Ep 188: How To Scale Sustainable Technology with Eric Appelman of Aduro Clean Technologies
Ep 179: How the Global Chemical Market is Shifting with John Richardson of ICIS
Ep 169: Decarbonizing the Chemical Industry with Solugen CEO Gaurab Chakrabarti
Ep 148. Exploring Sustainable Technologies and Green Chemicals with with Eric Bober of NexantECA
Ep 170. Future of Green Methanol: Challenges and Opportunities with Eric Bober

Subscribe to The Chemical Show on YouTube.
30 min
December 17, 2024Five Key Themes for Household & Commercial Products in 2025 - Ep 193
Uncover the five key themes shaping the household and commercial products landscapes for 2025 as Victoria Meyer delves into insights from the HCPA annual meeting in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. For professionals in the chemical industry, staying informed about regulatory changes, state-level initiatives, and sustainability efforts is crucial.

Victoria explores critical topics such as EPA regulations, state legislation alignment, extended producer responsibility, and the drive towards greener products. State-level regulation shifts are creating complex challenges, and the introduction of new administrations may have significant impacts on policies and business practices. Featuring clips from conversations with industry experts like Steve Caldeira, Steve Bennett, Mike Gruber, Nicholas Georges, and Molly Blessing, this episode provides a deep dive into the priorities and pressing issues within the HCPA.

Join us to learn more about the following topics this week:
HCPA's overarching themes: safety, efficacy, appropriate use, and transparency, in products and regulations
Building a more effective EPA and keeping consumers safe through PRIA and TSCA
Navigating state regulations and driving alignment
Making sustainability more available and easier to engage with in the chemical industry
Safe use of household and commercial products
Effects of Trump's Administration on the chemical industry

Killer Quote: "Without the federal regulatory system working, or the EPA working effectively, the states step up. And the challenge when the states step up is each of them apply different regulations. There's 50 regulations that potentially have to be monitored, understood, complied with." —Victoria Meyer

Other links:

Download: 10 Leadership Lessons for Chemical Executives

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
28 min
December 10, 2024Evolving Culture for Industry Success with Bonnie Tully of Evonik
From transforming control room roles to managing "startup hangovers," Bonnie Tully's journey in the chemical industry is a masterclass in navigating complexity and fostering innovation. As COO of Evonik, Bonnie shares her insights with host Victoria Meyer on the evolution of industry roles, the critical importance of middle management, and future trends involving AI and project-centric environments.
Want more leadership insights? Download: 10 Leadership Lessons for Chemical Executives
Bonnie's recount of her experience in setting up a plant in Singapore, managing a diverse team, and implementing a multicultural work environment highlights the intricacies of global operations. Victoria and Bonnie explore the shift towards self-managing employees, the essential role of middle management in maintaining company cohesion, and strategies for attracting top talent in an increasingly competitive landscape.
Join us to learn more about the following topics this week:
Bonnie Tully's career origin, evolution, and the 3 biggest changes she's seen in the chemical industry in the span of her career
Transformation of chemical industry roles
Trends in the chemical industry and looking to the future: what's next?
Setting up culture from scratch and the "startup hangover"
Tackling the talent attraction perspective, creating a unified culture, and social media's role

Killer Quote: "Creating a company culture isn't just a top-down directive; it's a journey you take with your team. It's about respect, collaboration, and openness, fostering an environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute. That's how we move from 'us versus them' to 'we're in this together.'" - Bonnie Tulley

Listen: Ep 165 Achieving Success in Chemicals: Sustainability and Leadership with Bonnie Tully of Evonik

***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
34 min
December 03, 2024Finish Strong Start Fast: 4 Key Moves For Leaders To Close 2024 And Launch 2025 - Ep 191
Episode 191
As 2024 comes to a close, leaders in the chemical industry are strategizing to finish strong and start fast into 2025. In this episode of The Chemical Show, Victoria Meyer discusses the top four moves that leaders should focus on to ensure momentum into the new year.
Victoria emphasizes the importance of running through the finish line and maintaining stride into the next year. She identifies several dynamic factors that will impact 2025, including a new U.S. administration, global political changes, and upcoming regulatory shifts. Exploring these key elements, Victoria offers strategies to navigate the evolving landscape and turn change into opportunity.

Join us to explore the following key topics this week:
Reinforce Relationships
Stress Test Scenarios
Strengthen Your Supply Chain Strategy
Assess and Advance Your Career

Killer Quote: "It is not enough to end the year strong. You want to start fast."

Other links:
Episode 189 with Patty Summers
10 Leadership Lessons from Chemical Executives
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 The Chemical Show.
Mark your calendars for The Chemical Summit, September 30-October 1, 2025 – the premier leadership conference by leaders for leaders.
15 min
November 26, 2024Classic Replay: Innovating For a Sustainable Future with Michael Graff - Ep 190
Episode 190 Shownotes
In this The Chemical Show Classic, we highlight a previous interview with Michael Graff who recently retired from his position as Chairman & CEO of American Air Liquide Holdings, Inc. and Executive Vice President of Air Liquide Group. Mike was particularly passionate about the potential of hydrogen as a clean energy solution and actively advocated for its adoption. As an officer of the American Chemistry Council (ACC), Mike was recently recognized for his contributions in significantly to shaping the future of the chemical industry. His retirement marks the end of a distinguished career marked by leadership, innovation, and a commitment to sustainable practices.

***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

The chemical industry plays a crucial role in modern society. The ability to leverage innovation, the ability to meet a customer's needs, the ability to go ahead and leverage at a global scale, and the capabilities to meet the world's needs are all very prominent today and vital to industrial gases and chemicals.

In this podcast episode, Victoria Meyer speaks with Michael Graff, Chairman and CEO of American Air Liquide Holdings and EVP of the Air Liquide Group. Michael shares leadership, learnings and insights from more than 30 years in the energy, chemicals, and gas industries.

Topics discussed this week:
Mike’s origin story and how it has influenced his life and career
6 key themes in the evolution of the chemical industry in the past 30 years
The importance of Innovation
The role of Hydrogen in sustainability and Net Zero
Leveraging partnerships and coalitions for a common goal
Meeting the consumers’ needs around the world
The continued importance of engineering education

Killer Quote: "In the end, the energy transition itself will not occur only because of hydrogen. But the energy transition will not happen without hydrogen." - Michael Graff
40 min
November 19, 2024Think Global Act Local: Insights into Doing Business In India and Middle East with Patty Summers of Zeochem - Ep 189
Sharing insights on the complexities of managing global chemical businesses, Patty Summers, Global Business Director at Zeochem, joins host Victoria Meyer on this episode of The Chemical Show. Patty, drawing from her extensive experience in the molecular sieve industry, discusses how Zeochem navigates diverse regional markets through strategic partnerships with distributors and agents. She shares valuable insights about doing business in India's ethanol market, where government initiatives and unique funding structures significantly impact project timelines, and explains the critical importance of having local presence and understanding cultural nuances in different regions.
*** Download our Guide to Seven Trends Influencing the Chemical Industry through 2030 at https://thechemicalshow.com/7trends/ ***

Victoria and Patty discuss how mid-sized chemical companies can effectively balance global strategy with local execution, particularly in today's challenging market conditions. Summers discusses the role of sustainability in different regions, noting how natural gas continues to serve as a bridge fuel in the energy transition. Victoria and Patty also make note of the potential impact of changing trade policies and tariffs, particularly regarding U.S.-China trade relations, and how companies like Zeochem are adapting their sourcing and market strategies in response. Patty emphasizes the importance of maintaining consistent long-term strategies while remaining adaptable to regional market dynamics and regulatory changes.

Join us to learn more about the following topics this week:
Global Business Partnerships: The importance of distributors and agents
Cultural considerations in international markets, focusing on India and the Middle East
India's ethanol market and project-based business management
Sustainability and Clean Energy Transition: Natural gas as a bridge fuel
Trade Policy Impact: Discussion of tariffs and their effects on global business
Regional market strategy and managing business across diverse global markets

Killer Quote: "When it comes down to the selling process, it's more than just the words. There's a deeper level of connection that you're trying to reach... it's easier to get to that win-win in the local language with that level of trust." --Patty Summers

Other links:
Confronting Change In The Chemical Industry: Discussing Leadership And Sustainability with Patty Summers

***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
27 min
November 12, 2024How To Scale Sustainable Technology with Eric Appelman of Aduro Clean Technologies - Ep 188
Discover how Aduro Clean Technologies is revolutionizing plastics recycling with innovative chemical solutions that transform contaminated plastics into valuable feedstocks. Victoria Meyer welcomes Eric Appelman, Chief Revenue Officer at Aduro, to delve into the shift from traditional chemistry to green, renewable technologies, the challenges of commercializing sustainable solutions, and the impact of carbon pricing and consumer behavior on sustainability.

Eric shares insights on Aduro's unique approach to chemical recycling, emphasizing the limitations of mechanical methods and the company's pioneering technology that operates at lower conditions to efficiently remove contaminants. The conversation also touches on the importance of profitability in sustainability, the role of government regulations, and the global interest in viable recycling technologies. Learn how Aduro is setting the stage for a circular economy in the chemical industry with their upcoming plans for scaling operations and listing on NASDAQ.

Join us to learn more about the following topics this week:
Aduro Clean Technologies' initial focus and what it is today
Commercial viability and financial sustainability of green solutions
Circularity - an inherent part of the chemical industry
Consumer behavior and recycling in different regions
Aduro's approach is to sustainability and technology and how they are finding solutions
Customer and market response to Aduro's technology and offerings
Critical Leadership traits for growth
Future plans for Aduro Clean Technologies

Killer Quote: "Sustainability isn't just about doing the right thing for the environment; it's about ensuring the solutions we create are commercially viable. It's a natural selection process where only the most efficient and market-ready technologies will survive, similar to the evolution of the car industry in the early 1900s." --Eric Appelman

Other links:

Aduro Clean Technologies Announces Pricing of US$4 Million Uplisting to Nasdaq

***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
35 min
November 05, 2024Shaping the Future of Chemicals: Insights from S&P Global’s Mark Eramo - Ep 187
Navigating the complexities of the energy transition, Mark Eramo from S&P Global Commodity Insights joins Victoria Meyer to shed light on balancing consumer demand, policy alignment, and sustainability in the chemical industry. Mark discusses the challenges of producing sustainable products that consumers will pay premiums for and emphasizes strategic collaboration between policymakers and industry leaders.

Victoria and Mark converse about the transformative roles of diversity and AI in shaping the industry's future, the effects of geopolitical uncertainties on supply chains, and the anticipation of a pivotal market shift by 2025-26. They highlight the intricate journey of corporate transformation and share insightful advice on leadership and career progression within the chemical sector.

Join us to learn more about the following topics this week:
Mark Eramo's career and industry engagement
What S&P Global Commodity Insights' origin story and what it is today
Lessons learned through managing and helping lead companies through transition
What S&P Global Commodity Insights brings to their customers today versus what they have done in the past.
Customer response to changes with S&P Global Commodity Insights
Biggest trends that are influencing the chemical industry today?
S&P Global's advice for their customers
Leadership advice from Mark Eramo

Killer Quote: "One of the biggest challenges we face today is aligning policies, technology, and consumer demand to create sustainable products that consumers are willing to pay a premium for, without compromising business viability. It's a fine line we must tread to ensure we don’t face unintended business consequences." -- Mark Eramo

***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
34 min