Smart Acids™

Hosted by Univar Solutions

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Latest episode

May 2026

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EN-US

About the show

Smart Acids™ is the source for product insights and current market moves related to chemical and specialty ingredient distribution—breaking it all down one boron at a time. Join host Andy Erickson for a straightforward and honest chat that speaks to the why behind pricing and supply, delivered in a smart, fun, and entertaining way. Smart Acids is the winner of a B2 Silver Award, a top national recognition among leading global brands and marketers in B2B. About the host: Andy Erickson, VP of Global Product Management, converses with guests from chemistry and specialty ingredient backgrounds who are keyed in to markets across the industry.

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39 recent

May 14, 2026Episode 422 min

The Golden Mussel Threat

Golden mussels are spreading fast—and water infrastructure is feeling the pressure.🎙️In this episode of the Smart Acids Podcast, host Andy Erickson is joined by Univar Solutions water treatment experts Mike Corcoran and Jack Kenney to unpack the growing threat of golden mussels in California and what it means for water infrastructure. Together, they explore the fundamentals of water treatment, the rapid spread and impact of this invasive species, and why early, preventative action is critical—highlighting how Univar Solutions supports municipalities and agencies in protecting critical water systems before costs and risks escalate.Protect systems. Reduce risk. Act early.#Reliabilitythatdelivers #UnivarSolutions #GoldenMusselsSmart Acids™ is the source for product insights and current market moves related to chemical and specialty ingredient distribution—breaking it all down one boron at a time. Join hosts Andy Erickson and Chris Ernst for straightforward and honest chat that speaks to the why behind pricing and supply, delivered in a smart, fun and entertaining way. Smart Acids is the winner of a B2 Silver Award, a top national recognition among leading global brands and marketers in B2B.About the hosts: Andy Erickson, senior director of product marketing for essential chemicals, and Chris Ernst, senior director of product marketing for solvents, converse with guests from chemistry and specialty ingredient backgrounds who are keyed in to manufacturing and markets across industries.Univar Solutions is a leading global specialty chemical and ingredient distributor representing a premier portfolio from the world's leading producers, and helping to keep communities healthy, fed, clean and safe. With the industry's largest private transportation fleet and technical sales force, unparalleled logistics know-how, deep market and regulatory knowledge, formulation and recipe development, and leading digital tools, we offer tailored solutions and value-added services to a wide range of markets, industries and applications.

March 31, 2026Episode 328 min

Jen McIntyre: Courage, Kindness, and Chemistry

As she begins her well‑earned retirement, Jen McIntyre is taking time to reflect —and to give back—by sharing her story on a podcast this week with hosts Andy Erickson & Chris Ernst. Throughout her career, Jen has been a respected voice in the chemical industry, helping shape conversations around leadership, progress, and responsibility. Her impact goes beyond projects and milestones; it lives on through the people she mentored, the standards she championed, and the example she set for the next generation. We’re grateful she’s capturing those lessons and experiences in her own words as she turns the page to her next chapter. Jen’s legacy at Univar Solutions—and across the broader chemical industry—will continue to influence the industry for years to come. 🎧 Don’t miss her story—and join us in celebrating an incredible career.#UnivarSolutions #ReliabilityThatDeliversSmart Acids™ is the source for product insights and current market moves related to chemical and specialty ingredient distribution—breaking it all down one boron at a time. Join hosts Andy Erickson and Chris Ernst for straightforward and honest chat that speaks to the why behind pricing and supply, delivered in a smart, fun and entertaining way. Smart Acids is the winner of a B2 Silver Award, a top national recognition among leading global brands and marketers in B2B.About the hosts: Andy Erickson, senior director of product marketing for essential chemicals, and Chris Ernst, senior director of product marketing for solvents, converse with guests from chemistry and specialty ingredient backgrounds who are keyed in to manufacturing and markets across industries.Univar Solutions is a leading global specialty chemical and ingredient distributor representing a premier portfolio from the world's leading producers, and helping to keep communities healthy, fed, clean and safe. With the industry's largest private transportation fleet and technical sales force, unparalleled logistics know-how, deep market and regulatory knowledge, formulation and recipe development, and leading digital tools, we offer tailored solutions and value-added services to a wide range of markets, industries and applications.

March 10, 2026Episode 227 min

Pourin’ Up Some Texas Tea: Crude Talk with Bill Groel

Energy volatility. Geopolitical tension. Shifting crude markets. If you’re trying to make sense of how these forces are reshaping the chemical industry, this SmartAcids™ Podcast episode is one that you won't want to miss.In our latest conversation, hosts Andy Erickson and Chris Ernst sit down with Bill Groel, Sr. Director of Product Marketing Management at Univar Solutions, to break down what’s really happening across global crude and hydrocarbons — and how those trends are already influencing chemical supply, pricing, and downstream demand.Bill brings sharp, real‑world perspectives making this an invaluable listen for anyone navigating today’s market uncertainty. Watch the episode now and subscribe to the podcast to stay ahead of market insightsSmart Acids™ is the source for product insights and current market moves related to chemical and specialty ingredient distribution—breaking it all down one boron at a time. Join hosts Andy Erickson and Chris Ernst for straightforward and honest chat that speaks to the why behind pricing and supply, delivered in a smart, fun and entertaining way. Smart Acids is the winner of a B2 Silver Award, a top national recognition among leading global brands and marketers in B2B.About the hosts: Andy Erickson, senior director of product marketing for essential chemicals, and Chris Ernst, senior director of product marketing for solvents, converse with guests from chemistry and specialty ingredient backgrounds who are keyed in to manufacturing and markets across industries.Univar Solutions is a leading global specialty chemical and ingredient distributor representing a premier portfolio from the world's leading producers, and helping to keep communities healthy, fed, clean and safe. With the industry's largest private transportation fleet and technical sales force, unparalleled logistics know-how, deep market and regulatory knowledge, formulation and recipe development, and leading digital tools, we offer tailored solutions and value-added services to a wide range of markets, industries and applications.

February 25, 2026Episode 121 min

Corporate Accounts in a Changing Market

In this episode of Smart Acids, George Knox, VP of Corporate Accounts, joins Andy and Chris to talk about how centralizing chemical distribution under one partner simplifies the full lifecycle—from bulk and blends to packaged goods and ChemCare. They unpack: How a single global account model supports multi‑site chemical demand Where customers unlock real TCO savings through freight optimization, consolidation, and digital ordering Why integrated services like waste, blending, and repack are becoming must‑haves How Univar Solutions documents value with scorecards, QBRs, and sustainability metrics If chemical complexity is your daily reality, this episode might be your new favorite playbook. Smart Acids™ is the source for product insights and current market moves related to chemical and specialty ingredient distribution—breaking it all down one boron at a time. Join hosts Andy Erickson and Chris Ernst for straightforward and honest chat that speaks to the why behind pricing and supply, delivered in a smart, fun and entertaining way. Smart Acids is the winner of a B2 Silver Award, a top national recognition among leading global brands and marketers in B2B.About the hosts: Andy Erickson, senior director of product marketing for essential chemicals, and Chris Ernst, senior director of product marketing for solvents, converse with guests from chemistry and specialty ingredient backgrounds who are keyed in to manufacturing and markets across industries.Univar Solutions is a leading global specialty chemical and ingredient distributor representing a premier portfolio from the world's leading producers, and helping to keep communities healthy, fed, clean and safe. With the industry's largest private transportation fleet and technical sales force, unparalleled logistics know-how, deep market and regulatory knowledge, formulation and recipe development, and leading digital tools, we offer tailored solutions and value-added services to a wide range of markets, industries and applications.

December 16, 2025Episode 730 min

Sideline Strategy: Trends in Chemical Distribution

Who’s the real MVP—on the field and in the chemical industry?In this episode of Smart Acids, Andy and Chris put Bob Craycraft CEO of Univar Solutions’ Chemical Distribution & Services division and former Vanderbilt football player through a quick quiz on famous Commodores before diving into the biggest plays in chemical distribution.From consolidation trends and targeted growth to why safety, service, and expertise make Univar Solutions the distributor of choice, Bob shares insights that will keep you ahead of the game.Smart Acids™ is the source for product insights and current market moves related to chemical and specialty ingredient distribution—breaking it all down one boron at a time. Join hosts Andy Erickson and Chris Ernst for straightforward and honest chat that speaks to the why behind pricing and supply, delivered in a smart, fun and entertaining way. Smart Acids is the winner of a B2 Silver Award, a top national recognition among leading global brands and marketers in B2B.About the hosts: Andy Erickson, senior director of product marketing for essential chemicals, and Chris Ernst, senior director of product marketing for solvents, converse with guests from chemistry and specialty ingredient backgrounds who are keyed in to manufacturing and markets across industries.Univar Solutions is a leading global specialty chemical and ingredient distributor representing a premier portfolio from the world's leading producers, and helping to keep communities healthy, fed, clean and safe. With the industry's largest private transportation fleet and technical sales force, unparalleled logistics know-how, deep market and regulatory knowledge, formulation and recipe development, and leading digital tools, we offer tailored solutions and value-added services to a wide range of markets, industries and applications.

November 11, 2025Episode 630 min

Driving Impact Across the Value Chain

Andy and Chris kicked off the episode in big hats—and even bigger conversation. In this episode, Liam McCarroll, DProf, Senior Director, Global Sustainability and Sukhjit Varaich, Director Regional Sustainability unpack how Univar Solutions is driving impact across the value chain as we close in on our 2025 ESG goals and look ahead to 2030. Listen to Driving Impact Across the Value Chain to hear how we’re: • Reducing emissions through smarter operations• Collaborating across the supply chain for shared value• Using AI to optimize performance and manage risk• Building transparency and resilience for long-term success Big hats were just the beginning—this episode is packed with insights on how responsible practices and smart strategy are shaping the future of our business. #TogetherWeWin #SustainabilityMatters #ReliabilityThatDeliversSmart Acids™ is the source for product insights and current market moves related to chemical and specialty ingredient distribution—breaking it all down one boron at a time. Join hosts Andy Erickson and Chris Ernst for straightforward and honest chat that speaks to the why behind pricing and supply, delivered in a smart, fun and entertaining way. Smart Acids is the winner of a B2 Silver Award, a top national recognition among leading global brands and marketers in B2B.About the hosts: Andy Erickson, senior director of product marketing for essential chemicals, and Chris Ernst, senior director of product marketing for solvents, converse with guests from chemistry and specialty ingredient backgrounds who are keyed in to manufacturing and markets across industries.Univar Solutions is a leading global specialty chemical and ingredient distributor representing a premier portfolio from the world's leading producers, and helping to keep communities healthy, fed, clean and safe. With the industry's largest private transportation fleet and technical sales force, unparalleled logistics know-how, deep market and regulatory knowledge, formulation and recipe development, and leading digital tools, we offer tailored solutions and value-added services to a wide range of markets, industries and applications.

September 16, 2025Episode 523 min

Rooted in Family, Driven by Chemistry

Smart Acids Podcast | S4E5: Rooted in Family, Driven by ChemistryIn this episode, hosts Andy Erickson and Chris Ernst welcome sibling leaders Shelly Manos and Brandon Lowery from Continental Chemicals, a family-owned business with deep roots in the chemical industry. They share the inspiring story of their father’s entrepreneurial journey, the company’s 50-year legacy, and how their partnership with Univar Solutions has expanded their reach nationally.From personal customer service to agile problem-solving, Shelly and Brandon highlight what makes Continental Chemicals a unique player in the market—offering the best of both worlds: small business care with large-scale capability.Plus, enjoy a fun sibling-themed quiz and hear how the chemical industry continues to evolve while staying essential in everyday life.#SmartAcidsPodcast #ChemicalIndustry #FamilyBusiness #ContinentalChemicals #UnivarSolutions #AgilityInBusiness #CustomerFirst #PodcastHighlightsSmart Acids™ is the source for product insights and current market moves related to chemical and specialty ingredient distribution—breaking it all down one boron at a time. Join hosts Andy Erickson and Chris Ernst for straightforward and honest chat that speaks to the why behind pricing and supply, delivered in a smart, fun and entertaining way. Smart Acids is the winner of a B2 Silver Award, a top national recognition among leading global brands and marketers in B2B.About the hosts: Andy Erickson, senior director of product marketing for essential chemicals, and Chris Ernst, senior director of product marketing for solvents, converse with guests from chemistry and specialty ingredient backgrounds who are keyed in to manufacturing and markets across industries.Univar Solutions is a leading global specialty chemical and ingredient distributor representing a premier portfolio from the world's leading producers, and helping to keep communities healthy, fed, clean and safe. With the industry's largest private transportation fleet and technical sales force, unparalleled logistics know-how, deep market and regulatory knowledge, formulation and recipe development, and leading digital tools, we offer tailored solutions and value-added services to a wide range of markets, industries and applications.

August 26, 2025Episode 455 min

Smart Acids: On the Road – Exclusive Insights from Our CKO Transportation Event

Recorded live at our invite-only Carrier Kickoff (CKO) transportation event In July 2025. This special episode of Smart Acids hits the road with industry leaders to unpack the forces shaping freight, logistics, and chemical supply chains in 2025 and beyond.Hosts Andy Erickson & Chris Ernst are joined by:Chris Pickett – Lead Market Analyst, Pickett Research & CTO, Flock FreightRyan Streblow – President & CEO, National Tank Truck CarriersDr. Dwayne Roark – VP, Corporate Affairs & Marketing Communications, Univar SolutionsTogether, they dive into:The impact of bulk carrier consolidation and M&A activityClass 8 truck production trends and regulatory pressuresTariffs, trade wars, and their ripple effects on the chemical industryWhat it really means to be a “shipper of choice” in today’s marketWhether you're in logistics, chemical manufacturing, or just love a good panel with sharp insights and sharper wit, this episode delivers.Smart Acids™ is the source for product insights and current market moves related to chemical and specialty ingredient distribution—breaking it all down one boron at a time. Join hosts Andy Erickson and Chris Ernst for straightforward and honest chat that speaks to the why behind pricing and supply, delivered in a smart, fun and entertaining way. Smart Acids is the winner of a B2 Silver Award, a top national recognition among leading global brands and marketers in B2B.About the hosts: Andy Erickson, senior director of product marketing for essential chemicals, and Chris Ernst, senior director of product marketing for solvents, converse with guests from chemistry and specialty ingredient backgrounds who are keyed in to manufacturing and markets across industries.Univar Solutions is a leading global specialty chemical and ingredient distributor representing a premier portfolio from the world's leading producers, and helping to keep communities healthy, fed, clean and safe. With the industry's largest private transportation fleet and technical sales force, unparalleled logistics know-how, deep market and regulatory knowledge, formulation and recipe development, and leading digital tools, we offer tailored solutions and value-added services to a wide range of markets, industries and applications.

June 25, 2025Episode 329 min

Freight Futures

In this high-octane episode of Smart Acids, we’re riding shotgun with Chris Pickett, Lead Market Analyst at Pickett Research and Chief Commercial Officer at Flock Freight—the largest Shared Truckload brokerage in the U.S. Listen Here: Chris shares: 🚚 The current state of the U.S. truckload freight market📊 Surprising data points shaping 2025 logistics📈 How to use data to stay ahead of market shifts 🔎 Whether you're a logistics professional, supply chain strategist, or just love a good market cycle breakdown, this episode delivers insights you can’t afford to miss.Smart Acids™ is the source for product insights and current market moves related to chemical and specialty ingredient distribution—breaking it all down one boron at a time. Join hosts Andy Erickson and Chris Ernst for straightforward and honest chat that speaks to the why behind pricing and supply, delivered in a smart, fun and entertaining way. Smart Acids is the winner of a B2 Silver Award, a top national recognition among leading global brands and marketers in B2B.About the hosts: Andy Erickson, senior director of product marketing for essential chemicals, and Chris Ernst, senior director of product marketing for solvents, converse with guests from chemistry and specialty ingredient backgrounds who are keyed in to manufacturing and markets across industries.Univar Solutions is a leading global specialty chemical and ingredient distributor representing a premier portfolio from the world's leading producers, and helping to keep communities healthy, fed, clean and safe. With the industry's largest private transportation fleet and technical sales force, unparalleled logistics know-how, deep market and regulatory knowledge, formulation and recipe development, and leading digital tools, we offer tailored solutions and value-added services to a wide range of markets, industries and applications.

May 16, 2025Episode 225 min

From Alt Rock to Alt Fuels

In this episode, we sit down with Jacob Givens—actor, social media influencer, and Director of Promotion & Marketing at Biofriendly —to explore the intersection of Alternative Music and Alternative Fuels. With over 500,000 followers across TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, Jacob has built a loyal audience by blending nostalgic 90s music content with a passion for environmental change. We dive into: How Jacob uses music to connect generations and promote green messaging The science and mission behind Green Plus®, Biofriendly’s fuel additive The evolving role of regulation, and innovation in the clean energy space Whether you're a fan of flannel shirts or fuel efficiency, this episode hits all the right notes. 02:20 Alternative Music -Quiz Time!08:00 Viral meets Chemistry with Jacob Givens12:15 Collaboration Between Univar and Biofriendly13:19 Biofriendly Mission15:43 Global Sustainability Trends19:50 The Role of Regulation in Shaping Subsidies20:50 Today's Environmental Concerns22:43 Impact of Tariffs23:39 One final TakeawayVisit Univar Solutionshttps://www.univarsolutions.comSubscribe to the Smart Acids YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@TheSmartAcidsVisit Biofriendlyhttps://biofriendly.com/Subscribe and Follow Jacob Givens at:YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@JacobGivensTikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@thejacobgivensFacebookhttps://www.facebook.com/thejacobgivensXhttps://x.com/jacobgivensSmart Acids™ is the source for product insights and current market moves related to chemical and specialty ingredient distribution—breaking it all down one boron at a time. Join hosts Andy Erickson and Chris Ernst for straightforward and honest chat that speaks to the why behind pricing and supply, delivered in a smart, fun and entertaining way. Smart Acids is the winner of a B2 Silver Award, a top national recognition among leading global brands and marketers in B2B.About the hosts: Andy Erickson, senior director of product marketing for essential chemicals, and Chris Ernst, senior director of product marketing for solvents, converse with guests from chemistry and specialty ingredient backgrounds who are keyed in to manufacturing and markets across industries.Univar Solutions is a leading global specialty chemical and ingredient distributor representing a premier portfolio from the world's leading producers, and helping to keep communities healthy, fed, clean and safe. With the industry's largest private transportation fleet and technical sales force, unparalleled logistics know-how, deep market and regulatory knowledge, formulation and recipe development, and leading digital tools, we offer tailored solutions and value-added services to a wide range of markets, industries and applications.