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

Uncertainty is the new normal for the chemical industry, but leaders still need to make smart decisions that drive business forward. Victoria Meyer tackles the critical actions leaders should be taking at the midyear point of 2025, offering strategic advice for operating in volatile markets, maintaining resilient supply chains, and effectively communicating through change. With insights from industry leaders, she highlights the importance of scenario planning, mindful diversification, and strategic cash management while emphasizing the value of strong relationships across the business ecosystem. 

Victoria also spotlights the upcoming The Chemical Summit in Houston, which centers on leadership through industry transformation, and explores the internal and external moves executives are using to keep their teams focused and adaptive.  

Learn more about these topics this week: 

• Midyear Reset: Now is the time to pause, reassess, and recalibrate your business strategies for the rest of 2025 
• Leading Through Uncertainty: Unpack the specific challenges chemical companies are facing this year 
• Smart leadership moves and the five key actions that drive confident decision-making and resilient operations 
• The power of strategic relationships: why reinforcing existing partnerships and building new ones across the supply chain is more important than ever before 
• Seizing opportunity in change: Learn how industry leaders are preparing for the unexpected 

00:00 "Chemical Summit: Leadership Through Change" 

05:35 "Six Leadership Tactics for Uncertain Times" 

07:53 Enhancing Internal and External Communication 

12:04 Clarifying Goals and Strengthening Relationships 

16:40 Refocusing on Diversified Supply Chains 

17:52 Strategic Diversification in Markets 

21:57 Strategic Investment and Relationship Management 

25:07 Midyear Reset for Leaders 

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The speed of communication during a crisis can determine whether a company maintains control of its story or loses it to speculation and misinformation. Gerard Braud, crisis communications expert, joins host Victoria Meyer to share real-world insights from decades of experience in both journalism and the chemical industry, emphasizing the critical need for rapid, clear, and well-prepared communication when incidents occur. 

Together, they explore how chemical companies can build effective crisis communication strategies, prepare holding statements, tackle challenges like incomplete information and confidentiality, and leverage tools such as SituationHub to streamline the process. With practical examples and straightforward advice, Gerard and Victoria discuss why preparation on a “clear, sunny day” is essential to protect revenue, reputation, and brand in the face of crisis—highlighting what every chemical industry leader should know before the next incident hits the news. 

Learn more about these topics this week: 

• Inside the Mind of a Crisis Expert: Gerard Braud's career from his early days as a TV journalist to a crisis communications advisor for the industry. 
• Redefining Crisis Response: why traditional, slow corporate communication puts companies at risk 
• Mistakes Companies Make: what happens when companies don’t prepare 
• The New Rules of Media Engagement 
• Leadership on the Worst Day 

Other Links:

Managing Crisis Communications: How To Save Your Reputation With Gerard Braud 

00:00 Crisis Communications in Chemicals 

03:32 Streamlining Crisis Communications 

07:33 Crisis Communication Tool: SituationHub 

12:49 "Crisis Communication Holding Statement" 

15:04 App Privacy and HIPAA Compliance 

17:58 "Effective Media Training with Scripts" 

21:29 Crisis Communication Strategy Essentials 

25:29 Rethinking PR Quotes and Efficiency 

26:32 Manipulating Media with Built-In Quotes 

30:18 Engage, Share, Stay Tuned 

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Starting your career is more than landing that first job—it’s about building a foundation for lifelong growth and opportunity. With graduation season in full swing, Victoria Meyer shares her most impactful career advice for new graduates in and beyond the chemical industry, drawing on insights from industry leaders and her own journey. From embracing the career marathon to building a strong network or “work posse,” finding your expertise, and knowing when to speak up, Victoria offers practical tips that every professional can use—whether you’re just starting out or looking to advance your career. 

Financial wisdom, communication skills, and seizing new opportunities are at the heart of this episode, alongside the encouragement to take calculated risks and develop a joy for success over fear of failure. Perfect for bookmarking and sharing with colleagues or the new grads in your life, this episode delivers concise guidance and inspiration for anyone ready to thrive in their professional journey. 

Get ready for an in-depth look at these topics this week: 

• 00:00 Career Advice for Chemical Professionals 
• 03:35 Career Advice: Embrace the Journey 
• 06:50 Build Your Posse 
• 11:50 "Seize Opportunities" 
• 13:14 Career Growth Takes Time 
• 17:16 "Communication: Key to Success" 
• 20:12 Congrats, Class of 2025! 

Tariffs are shaking up the global chemical industry this year, creating uncertainty and shifting longstanding trade routes in unexpected ways. Victoria Meyer is joined by Joseph Chang and Al Greenwood of ICIS Chemical Business to break down the latest round of tariffs, including the dramatic 145% rate on Chinese imports and the sweeping, if temporary, 10% baseline affecting nearly every other country. They analyze how chemical markets from the US to Europe and Asia are being impacted, exploring falling product prices, disrupted supply chains, and the broader economic pressures facing manufacturers and end users alike. 

With insights into policy-driven chaos, shifting sourcing strategies, and the growing ripple effects on sectors like housing and automotive, this episode highlights why strategic scenario planning, supply chain transparency, and adaptability are more critical than ever for chemical leaders.
  

Get ready for an in-depth look at these topics this week: 

• Exploring the 2025 tariff policies and how they are reshaping chemical trade flows 
• The economic ripple effects of the tariff policies 
• Supply chain resilience and why chemical companies must map their entire supply chains 
• Energy market dynamics: what is benefitting US chemical producers and what are the challenges 
• Strategic planning in uncertainty and navigating the 90-day tariff pause 

Killer Quote: "Look at your supply chains. Which products are you getting from Vietnam? Which products are you getting from lower tariff countries? And see where is the most advantageous supplier with the tariffs, and also look at product substitution... You have to be cognizant, not just of your supplies, but also your products. Which products could be affected by influx of displaced shipments?" - Al Greenwood 

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What happens when scientific curiosity collides with entrepreneurial spirit? Dr. Charlie Landis shares his journey from studying geochemistry to becoming the Chief Technology Officer at Integrity Biochem. With over 35 years of experience in the industry, Charlie elaborates on how his unique ability to connect disparate datasets has driven innovations in oilfield chemicals and beyond. This conversation reveals the process behind developing IBC’s first-of-its-kind encapsulation technology, which enhances hydrocarbon production by mitigating reservoir clogging with a unique polymer chemistry. 

Host Victoria Meyer and Charlie discuss Integrity Biochem's strategic expansion into biosurfactants, an area sparked by an emergent young scientist during the COVID-19 pandemic. With insights into navigating new markets and valuing scientific innovation, Charlie reflects on the 'unseen challenge' of combining commercialization with scientific inquiry. Their discussion unfolds essential advice for young professionals, emphasizing passion, informed decision-making, and readiness to leap on new opportunities. Tune in to discover how Integrity Biochem continues to set a benchmark in chemical sustainability and innovation. 

This week, we explore these topics in detail: 

• The journey from scientific curiosity to commercial innovation and what it requires. 
• The demands for building a successful startup in the chemical industry. 
• Decisive leadership during uncertainty and balancing long-term vision with immediate challenges. 
• What it takes to transition from familiar markets to entirely new ones. 
• Scientific career success: reliable expertise, passionate dedication, and informed decision-making. 

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As the world faces one of the longest chemical downcycles and a shifting global dynamic, Kendall Justiniano, founder and managing director of GrowthArc Advisors, offers a compelling perspective on how companies in the chemical industry can navigate the challenges of sustainability and innovation in today's economic climate. Justin and The Chemical Show host Victoria Meyer discuss the importance of reassessing portfolios based on fundamentals.  

With a wealth of experience across various industry sectors, Kendall shares insights on tapping into untapped growth opportunities through strategic transformation, while maintaining a keen focus on the fundamentals of business growth. Victoria and Kendall discuss the evolving landscape of sustainability, exploring how companies can align their strategies with economic realities without compromising on long-term goals. They also highlight the need for chemical companies to bolster their core capabilities in market-driven innovation and commercial excellence, drawing parallels from lessons learned in the tech sector.  

Get ready to explore these topics in depth this week: 

• Chemical industry's current downcycle 
• Sustainability in a cost-constrained environment 
• Economic context and challenges in chemicals 
• China's structural economic issues 
• Risk assessment and portfolio management 

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Celebrating four years of chemical insights, Victoria Meyer takes a unique look back at what started as an ambitious idea and has now transformed into the number one business podcast in the chemical industry. Reflecting on the journey from 2021 to 2025, Victoria shares her personal and professional growth, marking pivotal shifts that have shaped both her career and the wider chemical landscape. From energy policies to digital transformation, Victoria discusses the ever-evolving dynamics of the industry and her mission to foster meaningful connections and insights through The Chemical Show. 

This special anniversary episode offers listeners an engaging reintroduction to Victoria herself, diving into her background in chemical engineering, her passion for growth, and her role as an entrepreneur, media business owner, and executive coach. As she outlines the past and future of The Chemical Show, including industry trends and the strategic direction of the chemical industry at large, Victoria invites her audience to continue the journey of learning, connecting, and innovating together.  

This week, we explore these topics in detail: 

• Victoria Meyer's background and origin story 
• The evolution of The Chemical Show: 2021 to today 
• Industry resilience and adaptation 
• The power of community and connection 
• The future of The Chemical Show 

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Journey into the world of commercial carbon recycling with Victoria Meyer and Jennifer Holmgren, CEO of LanzaTech, a groundbreaking company developing sustainable products from waste emissions. Discover how LanzaTech is leading the charge in turning industrial waste into valuable resources, focusing on carbon-smart ethanol and sustainable aviation fuel. Jennifer shares her fascinating personal journey from Colombia to the U.S. and her transition from working at Honeywell UOP to leading LanzaTech as its first CEO. 

Victoria and Jennifer engage in a discussion about the challenges faced by startups in scaling up new technologies and the importance of partnering with established industry giants. They delve into the global trend towards regionalization and localization and how LanzaTech's innovative approach is transforming the industry by using local resources to produce high-value products. Jennifer passionately advocates for following one's passion and maintaining a dynamic mindset, providing valuable advice for young professionals aspiring to make a significant impact in the chemical industry. 

On this week's show, we take a detailed look at: 

• Carbon Recycling: Transforming waste emissions into sustainable products 
• LanzaTech's technological innovation: Overcoming challenges in scaling disruptive technologies 
• Creating value through local resource utilization 
• Evolving startup leadership and talent management 
• Leveraging partnerships between startups and established companies 

Other links:  

Episode 60: Jennifer Holmgren on Carbon Capture and Transformation with LanzaTech

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Explore the transformative journey of financial empowerment with Audrey Faust, a financial expert dedicated to helping women entrepreneurs master their money mindset. Audrey shares her compelling story of growth from financial adversity to becoming a CFO, financial business coach, and best-selling author. Her insights address the unconscious barriers women face in achieving financial independence and how they can overcome them to feel more confident and secure in their financial decisions. 

Victoria Meyer and Audrey Faust unravel the complexities of money mindset, offering practical tools to reprogram negative beliefs and enhance financial strategies. The episode provides valuable guidance on developing a personalized financial blueprint rather than relying on traditional budgeting, emphasizing customized strategies for both personal and business finance. Audrey’s mission stands out—empowering women to make smart, empowered money decisions.

Book:  Get your copy of She Grows Rich on Amazon. 

This week's episode will provide an in-depth look at these topics: 

• Breaking the money mindset chains 
• Financial superpowers for women 
• From financial rock bottom to She Grows Rich: Audrey Faust's financial journey 
• Ditch the budget, embrace the blueprint 
• Emergency fund hacks for smart money growth 

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Join Victoria Meyer as she unravels the dynamic journey of growth and transformation at Pilot Chemical with Christian MacIver, the company's President and COO. With a background in engineering and a penchant for problem-solving, Christian shares her passion for bringing innovation to the specialty chemicals market. She discusses the strategic initiatives driving Pilot's success, including expansion plans and pioneering sustainable surfactants addressing consumer and environmental demands. 

Explore how Pilot's private and independent status empowers it to adapt quickly to market changes while maintaining a customer and employee-centric approach. Christian highlights the crucial role of supply chain resilience, the transition towards digitization, and the thoughtful consideration of AI in their operations. Drawing from her own career experiences, Christian shares invaluable advice on leadership and the importance of using one's voice in building a successful and forward-thinking business. 

Join us on this week’s episode to learn more about these topics: 

• Christian MacIver's leadership journey and career development 
• Privately held vs. public companies 
• Specialty chemical industry transformation 
• Supply chain resilience and adaptation 
• Innovation and technology adoption 

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