Chemline: Inside the Chemical Distribution Industry

Hosted by Alliance for Chemical Distribution

Business Science

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Latest episode

May 2026

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EN-US

About the show

Chemicals touch our lives every day, in every way. From wherever you are reading this, you can’t reach out in front of you to touch something that hasn’t been brought to you by chemical production. The paint on our cars, the medications we take, even the municipal water we drink have all been impacted by chemicals. Chemical distributors and their affiliates work hard to keep these chemicals moving; to ensure business can flow seamlessly for the thousands of downstream industries which rely on them; and to provide the millions of products and services for the people who use them. From the Alliance for Chemical Distribution (ACD), this is Chemline: Inside the Chemical Distribution Industry. Taking you through the obstacles faced by those who keep the chemical distribution industry churning. Each month we’ll hear first-hand from experts on different topics that are affecting the industry.

Listen to episodes

17 recent

May 8, 2026Episode 4

The State of Shipping: A Conversation with FMC Chairman DiBella

In this episode, Alliance for Chemical Distribution President and CEO Eric R. Byer sits down with Federal Maritime Commission Chairman Laura DiBella for an in-depth conversation on the current state of shipping and global supply chains. Together, they explore the challenges and opportunities shaping the shipping industry. Tune in for a timely discussion on the issues impacting the movement of goods across the globe and the future of international trade.

December 3, 2025Episode 354 min

Trade & Transportation: Tariffs & Rail Merger Impacts on the Chemical Industry

In this episode, we bring you a panel discussion recorded live at ACD’s Annual Meeting on November 12. Host Eric R. Byer is joined by industry experts Karyn Booth of Thompson Hine LLP and Michael Tomenga of Neville Peterson LLP to break down the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling on President Trump’s International Emergency Economic Powers Act tariffs and what this decision means for the chemical distribution industry. The panel also examines the potential implications of the proposed Union Pacific–Norfolk Southern rail merger, including how it could affect market competition, service reliability, and freight costs across the chemical industry.

October 16, 2025Episode 2

Keeping Business Rolling: Policy Wins and Rail Challenges Ahead

In this episode, host Eric R. Byer is joined by industry leaders from the American Chemistry Council (ACC) and the American Fuel & Petrochemical Manufacturers (AFPM) to discuss the impact of the One Big Beautiful Bill on chemical distribution and the broader industry. They explore the legislation’s immediate benefits for member companies, how key tax provisions could support growth, investment, and competitiveness, and how the bill reflects long-standing industry priorities for balancing safety and expansion. The conversation also turns to the proposed Union Pacific–Norfolk Southern merger, examining its potential effects on freight service, competition, and the ability of companies to deliver essential products, as well as the implications of changes at the Surface Transportation Board for a fair review process.

August 29, 2025Episode 1

Global Pressures, Local Impacts: Trade Shifts and Supply Chain Challenges

The rules of global trade are changing, and chemical distribution is feeling the impact. Recorded live at ACD's ChemEdge Conference and Trade Show in Louisville, KY, this conversation with industry experts explores how tariffs, trade enforcement, and supply chain disruptions are transforming the landscape. Please note: the information shared reflects the state of trade and the industry as of August 14 and may have evolved since recording.

March 26, 202527 min

Unraveling PFAS: Expert Management of Safety, Compliance, and Risk

In the season 2 finale, host Eric Byer delves into the challenges of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) in the chemical distribution industry. He begins by tracing the history of PFAS, their widespread use in products like firefighting foam and non-stick cookware, and the reasons behind their prevalence today. Eric is joined by industry experts Mark Siem of Perimeter Solutions and Stephen Kowkabany of The Vertex Companies, LLC. Together, they discuss the key federal and state regulations surrounding PFAS and their impact on chemical distributors, as well as the compliance obligations ACD members need to understand. Mark also shares a 7-step process for transitioning foam systems to address PFAS concerns. As insurance requirements evolve, the panel examines how chemical distributors can adapt to increased scrutiny and what coverage they should consider. The episode concludes with a spotlight on ASK Distribution Consulting’s partnership with Vertex, offering a PFAS audit service to help companies stay compliant and mitigate risks.

December 20, 202421 min

Countdown to Chaos: The January 15 Port Strike Deadline

In this episode of Chemline: Inside the Chemical Distribution Industry, host Eric Byer is joined by industry experts to explore the looming threat of a potential port strike set for January 15. As tensions rise between the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX), the risk of a strike could lead to widespread disruptions at key ports. Eric and guests explore how this action might impact shipping schedules, delays, and the flow of goods across industries. Join us as we break down the potential consequences for businesses, consumers, and the broader economy, and discuss what can be done to prepare for the uncertainty ahead.

June 12, 202419 min

From Crisis to Clean Water: The Story of O'Toole, WV

In this episode, we feature CITCO Water, a family-owned distributor serving customers in West Virginia, Kentucky, and Tennessee. Recognizing a need in their community, CITCO Water responded with care, resources, and guidance through their initiative, CITCO Plus One. Join us as we delve into the story of how CITCO Water, a proud member of the Alliance for Chemical Distribution (ACD) since 2014, expanded their core value of being 'Driven to Serve' by establishing CITCO Plus One in 2019, and discover how CITCO Plus One tackled water insecurity, both internationally and within their own backyard in Appalachia, starting with a pivotal project in O’Toole, West Virginia.

March 22, 202423 min

The Ripple Effect: How Red Sea Attacks Disrupt America’s Supply Chain

In this episode of Chemline, host Eric Byer dives into the repercussions of recent attacks on commercial ships in the Red Sea. Industry experts discuss the challenges confronting the global supply chain, such as heightened shipping delays and increased costs. Despite these challenges, businesses are fine-tuning their supply chain strategies to ensure flexibility and adaptability. Additionally, regulatory authorities are assessing responses to alleviate the impacts of these attacks on maritime trade. Tune in to gain insights into the effects of these events on the American supply chain.

January 23, 2024Episode 220 min

Closing the Gap: The Future of Diversity in STEM

In this episode, host Eric Byer dives into the profound impact of the Future of STEM Scholars Initiative (FOSSI) on the chemical industry. FOSSI, a national program, aims to amplify diversity in the STEM workforce by awarding scholarships to students pursuing STEM degrees at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). With a focus on breaking down financial barriers, FOSSI is dedicated to supporting aspiring STEM Scholars who might not otherwise access STEM education. Listen to this episode to explore FOSSI's inception, rapid growth, and unwavering commitment to diversity and education. Join us in uncovering the narratives that position FOSSI as a beacon of hope for future STEM professionals, catalyzing substantial change in the chemical industry's workforce. For more information, visit FutureofStemScholars.org.

December 4, 2023Episode 115 min

Backing the Experts Our World Depends On

Season Two of Chemline kicks off with a major shift from the National Association of Chemical Distributors (NACD) to the Alliance for Chemical Distribution (ACD). The episode draws insights from ACD’s Annual Meeting in Amelia Island, featuring the comprehensive research process behind ACD's new name and identity, the importance of inclusivity for industry growth, the enduring value of Responsible Distribution amid the rebrand, and what this transition means for the organization's future and its members.