The View (by: The Chemical Company)

“The View from Jamestown” Chemical Podcast

Hosted by The Chemical Company

Episode 149 | Q4 2026 Update with Big Kathy Energy

Join host Ben Sawicki for our quarterly update with Kathy Hall, including a global view on Oil, Ethylene, Benzene and more.

Stream all of this and more on Episode 149!

Kathy Hall

Founder & Proprietor: Big Kathy Energy

Host: Ben Sawicki

The Chemical Company

www.thechemco.com

Search for a TCC Product:

https://thechemco.com/chemical/

Subscribe to The View from Jamestown:

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For more information and our podcast disclaimer:

www.thechemco.com/podcast

Produced by:

Kettlebottom Creative

https://www.kettlebottomcreative.com

Produced by:

Kettlebottom Creative

Summary: In Episode 149 of The View from Jamestown, host Ben Sawicki welcomes back petrochemical market analyst Kathy Hall for a quarterly update on the global chemical industry. Kathy shares insights from her new venture, Big Kathy Energy, as they discuss U.S. feedstock advantages, China's growing influence on global markets, Europe's chemical industry challenges, and the latest trends in ethylene, propylene, benzene, and polyethylene.

The conversation also explores Panama Canal congestion, rising freight costs, volatile energy markets, and shifting export opportunities. As 2026 comes to a close, Ben and Kathy look ahead to 2027, discussing pricing expectations, natural gas and LNG markets, and why supply chain planning remains critical in an increasingly unpredictable global market.

Disclaimer: The material contained on this Podcast is provided by The Chemical Company (TCC) solely for informational purposes. The information is not guaranteed to be correct, complete, or up-to-date. The information in the Podcast is intended solely as a general educational aid. TCC is providing this podcast as a public service, but it is neither a legal interpretation nor a statement of TCC policy. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by TCC. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by TCC employees are those of the employees and do not necessarily reflect the view of TCC or any of its officials. All statements, comments and opinions presented are made in the context of robust dialog and freedom of expression”. TCC assumes no responsibility for any consequence relating directly or indirectly to any action or inaction you take based on the information in the Podcast. While TCC strives to keep the information in the Podcast accurate, complete, and up-to-date, we cannot guarantee, and will not be responsible for, any damage or loss related to the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of the information. TCC assumes no liability for any errors or omissions in the content of the Podcast. The information contained on the Podcast is provided entirely on an “as is” basis with no guarantees of completeness, accuracy, usefulness, or timeliness. TCC is not responsible for any changes to the information provided herein. TCC is not providing legal advice and does not assume liability for detrimental reliance on the information provided herein as conditions are subject to change. Please consult with your legal counsel regarding the applicable tariffs.

“The View from Jamestown” Chemical Podcast

Hosted by The Chemical Company

Episode 148 | October 2026

Episode 148 of The View from Jamestown is our October 2026 episode, with Ben and Robb recapping meetings at EPCA. In addition, the team provides an update on Asian chemical availabilities, demand planning for the end of the year, freight and logistics costs near and far, and why now is the important time to start planning your January supply chains.

Featuring:

President Robb Roach

VP Sales & Marketing AJ Petrarca

Latin American Operations Manager Javier Fernandez

Host: Marketing & Sales Manager Ben Sawicki

www.thechemco.com

Search for a TCC Product:

https://thechemco.com/chemical/

Subscribe to The View from Jamestown:

https://thechemco.com/subscribe/

For more information and our podcast disclaimer:

www.thechemco.com/podcast

Produced by:

Kettlebottom Creative

https://www.kettlebottomcreative.com

Episode Summary:

Fresh off the European Petrochemical Association (EPCA) Annual Meeting in Vienna, Austria, The Chemical Company team returns with firsthand insights into the challenges facing the global chemical industry. In Episode 148 of *The View from Jamestown*, host Ben Sawicki is joined by Javier Fernandez, AJ Petrarca, and TCC President Robb Roach to recap their conversations with international suppliers, customers, and industry partners. From Europe's soaring energy costs and growing competition from Chinese producers to ongoing Rhine River disruptions and shifting global trade dynamics, the team explores the pressures impacting chemical production, pricing, and supply chains around the world.

As 2026 winds down, the conversation shifts toward what lies ahead for Q4 and the beginning of 2027. With freight costs climbing, supply availability tightening, and winter weather threatening to create additional logistics challenges, the team discusses why proactive inventory management and early planning are more important than ever. They also examine softening demand, continued mergers and acquisitions throughout the chemical industry, and developing market conditions for key products including methanol and glycols.

Despite the uncertainty, The Chemical Company remains focused on strengthening supplier relationships, expanding its global sourcing network, and helping customers navigate an increasingly complicated market. From EPCA takeaways to preparing for the new year, Episode 148 delivers a candid look at the state of the chemical industry, the opportunities emerging amid disruption, and the importance of reliable partnerships and security of supply.

“The View from Jamestown” Chemical Podcast

Hosted by The Chemical Company

Episode 147 | September 2026

Episode 147 of The View from Jamestown is our September 2026 edition, with the TCC Team discussing the high cost of global and domestic freight alike, supply challenges on plasticizers, TCC’s strong position on Adipic Acid for both Q4 and 2027 contracts, and much more. In addition, The Logistix Company dives into details on freight capacities and logistics, and what to remember for the end of the year.

Featuring:

VP Sales & Marketing AJ Petrarca

Latin American Operations Manager Javier Fernandez

Host: Marketing & Sales Manager Ben Sawicki

www.thechemco.com

Search for a TCC Product:

https://thechemco.com/chemical/

Subscribe to The View from Jamestown:

https://thechemco.com/subscribe/

For more information and our podcast disclaimer:

www.thechemco.com/podcast

Produced by:

Kettlebottom Creative

https://www.kettlebottomcreative.com

Disclaimer: The material contained on this Podcast is provided by The Chemical Company (TCC) solely for informational purposes. The information is not guaranteed to be correct, complete, or up-to-date. The information in the Podcast is intended solely as a general educational aid. TCC is providing this podcast as a public service, but it is neither a legal interpretation nor a statement of TCC policy. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by TCC. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by TCC employees are those of the employees and do not necessarily reflect the view of TCC or any of its officials. All statements, comments and opinions presented are made in the context of robust dialog and freedom of expression”. TCC assumes no responsibility for any consequence relating directly or indirectly to any action or inaction you take based on the information in the Podcast. While TCC strives to keep the information in the Podcast accurate, complete, and up-to-date, we cannot guarantee, and will not be responsible for, any damage or loss related to the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of the information. TCC assumes no liability for any errors or omissions in the content of the Podcast. The information contained on the Podcast is provided entirely on an “as is” basis with no guarantees of completeness, accuracy, usefulness, or timeliness. TCC is not responsible for any changes to the information provided herein. TCC is not providing legal advice and does not assume liability for detrimental reliance on the information provided herein as conditions are subject to change. Please consult with your legal counsel regarding the applicable tariffs.

“The View from Jamestown” Chemical Podcast

Hosted by The Chemical Company

Episode 146 | Q3 2026 Update with Big Kathy Energy

Join host Ben Sawicki for our quarterly update with Kathy Hall, including a global view on Oil, Ethylene, Benzene and more.

Highlights Include:

Outlook on the Iran conflict & impacts to oil

Benzene volatility

New Ethylene reporting metrics

Stream all of this and more on Episode 141!

Kathy Hall

Founder & Proprietor: Big Kathy Energy

Host: Ben Sawicki

The Chemical Company

www.thechemco.com

Search for a TCC Product:

https://thechemco.com/chemical/

Subscribe to The View from Jamestown:

https://thechemco.com/subscribe/

For more information and our podcast disclaimer:

www.thechemco.com/podcast

Produced by:

Kettlebottom Creative

https://www.kettlebottomcreative.com

Produced by:

Kettlebottom Creative

Summary:

In Episode 146 of The View from Jamestown, Ben welcomes back petrochemical market expert Kathy Hall for a Q3 summertime market update. Kathy also discusses her new venture, Big Kathy Energy, which provides market intelligence and analysis.

The conversation focuses heavily on supply-side concerns, global logistics, and the increasingly interconnected nature of chemical markets. Kathy explains why supply disruptions are currently a bigger concern than demand, particularly during the summer months when demand is typically strongest. They discuss the continuing effects of transportation challenges, the Rhine River's historically low water levels, Middle East tensions, and elevated freight costs out of Asia.

Kathy also provides insight into ethylene and benzene markets, including the emergence of the new Spindletop ethylene hub in Beaumont, Texas, which could create additional flexibility and options for U.S. ethylene markets. Benzene, meanwhile, remains significantly more volatile, with uncertainty around pricing, exports, imports, and downstream styrene demand.

A major theme throughout the episode is how interconnected today's chemical markets have become. A disruption in one part of the world can create ripple effects several steps away, making freight volumes, logistics, supply availability, and global energy prices increasingly important indicators for buyers and sellers.

As the episode wraps up, Kathy emphasizes the importance of watching freight traffic, export volumes, global natural gas prices, and the flow of materials into Asia as indicators of where markets may be headed over the next several months.

“The View from Jamestown” Chemical Podcast

Hosted by The Chemical Company

Episode 145 | August 2026

Episode 145 of The View from Jamestown is our August 2026 edition, and features a guest appearance from TCC’s own Cory Mullins. We give an update on the upcoming peak demand season for Methanol, including demand and pricing. In addition, we discuss the Rhine River, which has reached all-time low levels and is causing extreme shortages of supply across Europe.

Featuring:

VP Sales & Marketing AJ Petrarca

Sales & Marketing Manager Cory Mullins

Latin American Operations Manager Javier Fernandez

Host: Marketing & Sales Manager Ben Sawicki

www.thechemco.com

Search for a TCC Product:

https://thechemco.com/chemical/

Subscribe to The View from Jamestown:

https://thechemco.com/subscribe/

For more information and our podcast disclaimer:

www.thechemco.com/podcast

Produced by:

Kettlebottom Creative

https://www.kettlebottomcreative.com

Summary:

In Episode 145 of The View from Jamestown, Ben Sawicki is joined by Cory Mullins, Javier Fernandez, and AJ Petrarca for a wide-ranging discussion on the current methanol market and the factors shaping supply and demand heading into the second half of 2026.

The team explores why methanol demand typically strengthens in late summer and early fall, driven by seasonal energy needs and increased downstream consumption. They discuss current pricing trends, global production capacity, and how supply balances have shifted over the past several years, including the impact of methanol-to-olefins (MTO) demand in Asia and what it could mean for future market fundamentals.

The conversation also turns to one of Europe's biggest logistical challenges: historically low water levels on the Rhine River. The group explains how reduced shipping capacity is affecting chemical transportation, increasing freight costs, and creating ripple effects throughout the global supply chain. They also discuss broader logistics considerations, regional market dynamics, and how distributors and manufacturers are adapting to ongoing transportation constraints.

“The View from Jamestown” Chemical Podcast

Hosted by The Chemical Company

Episode 144 | July 2026

Episode 144 of The View from Jamestown is our July 2026 edition, and features a discussion on a surprisingly large number of things happening in the market to focus on. Tariffs are changing, the Middle East conflict continues to start, stop and re-start, oil prices are fluctuating, the Rhine River is nearing historically low levels, and far more. A great mid-summer and mid-year update on what to focus on for the second half of 2026.

Featuring:

VP Sales & Marketing AJ Petrarca

Inside Sales Manager Nicole Iannuccillo

Latin American Operations Manager Javier Fernandez

Host: Marketing & Sales Manager Ben Sawicki

www.thechemco.com

Including:

A global shipping & logistics update from The Logistix Company

Jameson Mielde, Brian Burns

Search for a TCC Product:

https://thechemco.com/chemical/

Subscribe to The View from Jamestown:

https://thechemco.com/subscribe/

For more information and our podcast disclaimer:

www.thechemco.com/podcast

Produced by:

Kettlebottom Creative

https://www.kettlebottomcreative.com

Summary:

On Episode 144 of The View from Jamestown Podcast Edition, the team delivers a comprehensive mid-summer market update, covering the latest developments impacting the global chemical supply chain. From ongoing geopolitical uncertainty and shifting tariff regulations to force majeure declarations in Europe and transportation challenges across multiple freight modes, the discussion highlights the factors influencing chemical sourcing and logistics today.

The episode also recaps the 100th Annual Southwestern Fertilizer Conference, where AJ Petrarca shares insights into the current agricultural market, fertilizer demand, and several key products TCC supplies into the industry, including urea, boric acid, ammonium sulfate, dicyandiamide, and NBPT. The team discusses how these products improve fertilizer efficiency and why they remain important despite challenging market conditions.

The conversation then shifts to regulatory updates, including increased scrutiny of import compliance, evolving Customs and Border Protection guidance, and the importance of staying current as trade rules continue to change. The team also examines the impact of historically low Rhine River water levels, force majeure announcements from European producers, and what those disruptions could mean for chemical availability in the months ahead.

Wrapping up the episode, TCC welcomes logistics experts Brian and Jamie from TLC to discuss tightening transportation capacity, ocean freight trends, driver shortages, changing truck weight limitations, and why proactive planning and communication are becoming more critical than ever. Together, they explain how multiple supply chain pressures are converging and offer practical advice for companies looking to stay ahead of disruptions.

“The View from Jamestown” Chemical Podcast

Hosted by The Chemical Company

Episode 143 | June 2026

Episode 143 of The View from Jamestown is our June 2026 edition, features a discussion on recent travel and business meetings, a recap of markets and business as we approach the halfway point of the year, thoughts for the second half of 2026, and a brief World Cup update from Javier Fernandez.

Featuring:

VP Sales & Marketing AJ Petrarca

Inside Sales Manager Nicole Iannuccillo

Latin American Operations Manager Javier Fernandez

Host: Marketing & Sales Manager Ben Sawicki

www.thechemco.com

Search for a TCC Product:

https://thechemco.com/chemical/

Subscribe to The View from Jamestown:

https://thechemco.com/subscribe/

For more information and our podcast disclaimer:

www.thechemco.com/podcast

Produced by:

Kettlebottom Creative

https://www.kettlebottomcreative.com

Episode Summary:

In this episode of The View from Jamestown, the team recaps where the market stands as we head toward the end of the first half of 2026, with a focus on ongoing supply chain tightness, shifting demand patterns, and what customers should be watching in the months ahead. Javier, AJ, and Nicole discuss how global events continue to impact chemical availability, why certain product lines remain constrained, and how TCC is helping customers navigate those challenges with practical alternatives and sourcing solutions.

The conversation highlights tightness across several key product categories, including plasticizers, solvents, glycols, and caustic soda, along with the broader market factors driving those disruptions — from Middle East supply issues and freight concerns to continued uncertainty around oil and downstream raw materials. The team also talks through how customers can stay ahead of disruptions by keeping supply chains full, remaining flexible on product options, and leaning on strong supplier relationships when markets get volatile.

They also touch on TCC’s ability to provide replacement products and alternative sourcing strategies when traditional materials become difficult to find, reinforcing the company’s “people, not portals” approach to helping customers keep plants running. And, in classic Jamestown fashion, the episode wraps with a lighter conversation around the World Cup and the office’s ongoing soccer commentary.

“The View from Jamestown” Chemical Podcast

Hosted by The Chemical Company

Episode 142 | May 2026

Episode 142 of The View from Jamestown is our May 2026 edition, including an update on oil markets and chemical impacts, price updates and trends, featured products including Adipic Acid and Plasticizers, and most importantly - remembering to count our blessings. Also included is a logistics update from TLC, highlighting TCC’s 2026 EcoVadis Silver ranking, and a chat with Jose at the American Coatings Show.

Featuring:

President Robb Roach

VP Sales & Marketing AJ Petrarca

Inside Sales Manager Nicole Iannuccillo

Latin American Operations Manager Javier Fernandez

Host: Marketing & Sales Manager Ben Sawicki

The Logistic Company:

Joe Hassenfratz

Brian Burns

TCC Regulatory Feature from Kaitlyn Hagan

www.thechemco.com

Search for a TCC Product:

https://thechemco.com/chemical/

Subscribe to The View from Jamestown:

https://thechemco.com/subscribe/

For more information and our podcast disclaimer:

www.thechemco.com/podcast

Produced by:

Kettlebottom Creative

https://www.kettlebottomcreative.com

Disclaimer: The material contained on this Podcast is provided by The Chemical Company (TCC) solely for informational purposes. The information is not guaranteed to be correct, complete, or up-to-date. The information in the Podcast is intended solely as a general educational aid. TCC is providing this podcast as a public service, but it is neither a legal interpretation nor a statement of TCC policy. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by TCC. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by TCC employees are those of the employees and do not necessarily reflect the view of TCC or any of its officials. All statements, comments and opinions presented are made in the context of robust dialog and freedom of expression”. TCC assumes no responsibility for any consequence relating directly or indirectly to any action or inaction you take based on the information in the Podcast. While TCC strives to keep the information in the Podcast accurate, complete, and up-to-date, we cannot guarantee, and will not be responsible for, any damage or loss related to the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of the information. TCC assumes no liability for any errors or omissions in the content of the Podcast. The information contained on the Podcast is provided entirely on an “as is” basis with no guarantees of completeness, accuracy, usefulness, or timeliness. TCC is not responsible for any changes to the information provided herein. TCC is not providing legal advice and does not assume liability for detrimental reliance on the information provided herein as conditions are subject to change. Please consult with your legal counsel regarding the applicable tariffs.

“The View from Jamestown” Chemical Podcast

Hosted by The Chemical Company

Episode 141 | Q2 2026 Update with Kathy Hall

Join host Ben Sawicki for our quarterly update with Kathy Hall, and including TCC’s own VP of Business Development Ray Altenburger.

Highlights Include:

Impacts of Iran War and Conflict

Oil, Gas, Benzene, Propylene and raw material price trends

What’s Kathy Monitoring? - Q1 Chemical Industry Financial Reports

Stream all of this and more on Episode 141!

Kathy Hall

Renowned Petrochemical Market Expert

Featuring: Ray Altenburger - VP Business Development

Host: Ben Sawicki

The Chemical Company

Search for a TCC Product

Subscribe to The View from Jamestown

For more information and our podcast disclaimer

Produced by:

Kettlebottom Creative

Summary:

Market volatility remains high across petrochemicals, driven by geopolitical events, supply chain disruptions, and rapid price swings. While anxiety is elevated—especially for buyers—industry leaders emphasize adaptability, strong relationships, and risk management as critical tools. Even if conflicts ease, long-term impacts on supply, pricing, and global trade will persist, making flexibility and communication more important than ever.

Disclaimer: The material contained on this Podcast is provided by The Chemical Company (TCC) solely for informational purposes. The information is not guaranteed to be correct, complete, or up-to-date. The information in the Podcast is intended solely as a general educational aid. TCC is providing this podcast as a public service, but it is neither a legal interpretation nor a statement of TCC policy. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by TCC. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by TCC employees are those of the employees and do not necessarily reflect the view of TCC or any of its officials. All statements, comments and opinions presented are made in the context of robust dialog and freedom of expression”. TCC assumes no responsibility for any consequence relating directly or indirectly to any action or inaction you take based on the information in the Podcast. While TCC strives to keep the information in the Podcast accurate, complete, and up-to-date, we cannot guarantee, and will not be responsible for, any damage or loss related to the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of the information. TCC assumes no liability for any errors or omissions in the content of the Podcast. The information contained on the Podcast is provided entirely on an “as is” basis with no guarantees of completeness, accuracy, usefulness, or timeliness. TCC is not responsible for any changes to the information provided herein. TCC is not providing legal advice and does not assume liability for detrimental reliance on the information provided herein as conditions are subject to change. Please consult with your legal counsel regarding the applicable tariffs.

“The View from Jamestown” Chemical Podcast

Hosted by The Chemical Company

Episode 140 | Government Update with the ACD

Join host Ben Sawicki for a chat with Brian Callahan, Senior VP of Government Affairs with the Alliance for Chemical Distribution. Topics discussed include the Oil / Iran crisis, tariffs, trade and IEEPA refunds, rail legislation and upcoming changes in government seats.

The Alliance for Chemical Distribution (ACD) partners with our more than 400 chemical distribution industry members to provide the education, connection, standards, and advocacy they need to responsibly move the essential products our world depends on. As leaders in the $27B+ chemical distribution industry, ACD member companies commit to the highest standards in quality, safety, sustainability, and performance through ACD Responsible Distribution™. For more information, visit www.acd-chem.com.

Including:

Brian Callahan

Sr. Vice President, Gov. Affairs

Alliance for Chemical Distribution (ACD)

Host: Ben Sawicki

The Chemical Company

Search for a TCC Product

Subscribe to The View from Jamestown

For more information and our podcast disclaimer

Produced by:

Kettlebottom Creative

Summary:

In this episode, Ben speaks with Brian Callahan from the Alliance for Chemical Distribution about the biggest challenges facing the chemical distribution industry.

They cover how global events like tensions in the Middle East and disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz are impacting supply chains, driving up oil prices, and creating shipping delays.

The conversation also explores ongoing tariff uncertainty following rulings by the Supreme Court of the United States, along with the complexity of refunds and constantly changing trade policies.

Finally, they discuss rail service challenges—including a potential merger between Union Pacific Railroad and Norfolk Southern—and the growing shift toward state-level regulations that could shape the future of the industry.

Disclaimer: The material contained on this Podcast is provided by The Chemical Company (TCC) solely for informational purposes. The information is not guaranteed to be correct, complete, or up-to-date. The information in the Podcast is intended solely as a general educational aid. TCC is providing this podcast as a public service, but it is neither a legal interpretation nor a statement of TCC policy. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by TCC. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by TCC employees are those of the employees and do not necessarily reflect the view of TCC or any of its officials. All statements, comments and opinions presented are made in the context of robust dialog and freedom of expression”. TCC assumes no responsibility for any consequence relating directly or indirectly to any action or inaction you take based on the information in the Podcast. While TCC strives to keep the information in the Podcast accurate, complete, and up-to-date, we cannot guarantee, and will not be responsible for, any damage or loss related to the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of the information. TCC assumes no liability for any errors or omissions in the content of the Podcast. The information contained on the Podcast is provided entirely on an “as is” basis with no guarantees of completeness, accuracy, usefulness, or timeliness. TCC is not responsible for any changes to the information provided herein. TCC is not providing legal advice and does not assume liability for detrimental reliance on the information provided herein as conditions are subject to change. Please consult with your legal counsel regarding the applicable tariffs.