Chemical Show: Business, Leadership, Supply Chain, Talent, AI, Trends - Conversations and more

Hosted by Victoria King Meyer

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277

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Aug 2026

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About the show

Looking to lead, grow, and stay ahead in the global chemical industry? The Chemical Show is the #1 business podcast for the chemical industry, bringing you leadership insights, business strategies, industry trends, and real-world lessons from the executives shaping the business of chemicals. Each week, host Victoria King Meyer sits down with leaders from across the chemical industry, from Fortune 50 companies to mid-sized businesses and innovative startups. You’ll hear how they’re navigating today’s challenges and opportunities, the experiences that shaped their leadership, and the insights you can apply to your own business and career. Conversations explore the issues that matter to chemical industry leaders, including: • Business strategy and growth • Leadership and talent • Innovation and technology • AI and digital transformation • Supply chain and operational resilience • Markets, customers, and industry trends Victoria brings more than 25 years of chemical industry experience from companies including Shell, LyondellBasell, and Clariant. Today, she is an executive advisor and coach, founder of The Chemical Summit, and host of The Chemical Show. Whether you’re an executive, business leader, or rising leader in chemicals and materials, The Chemical Show helps you stay informed, think differently, and lead with greater impact. Follow The Chemical Show on LinkedIn and join the conversation. (https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-chemical-show/) The Chemical Show: https://www.thechemicalshow.com The Chemical Summit: https://www.thechemicalsummit.com Progressio Global: https://www.progressioglobal.com

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60 recent

August 18, 2026Episode 27727 min

Leadership Under Pressure: When Everything Demands Your Attention - Ep. 277

REGISTRATION IS OPEN for The Chemical Summit. Held on September 29-30, 2026 in Houston, Texas . Visit thechemicalsummit.com Facing increasing demands, complex organizational shifts, and economic uncertainty, many leaders in the chemical industry are under more pressure than ever. In this episode of The Chemical Show, Victoria Meyer explores emerging patterns in executive and senior leadership she's noticed from her conversations with industry leaders, coaching, and real-world experience. Victoria explains the three key patterns she’s seeing in organizations today and shares a “leadership operating reset” framework with three practical pillars to relieve stress and refocus on what matters. You’ll hear how to shift from doing it all to enabling others, set clear boundaries, empower up-and-coming leaders, and reclaim time for strategic priorities—both for yourself and for your team. Join us this week to learn about: New Organizational Realities: Why simplification often just means increased workload for proven leaders Leadership Bottlenecks: The risk of becoming the go-to resolver and how it stifles organizational development Dealing with Pressure: Balancing stakeholder demands at work and at home, and the importance of clear boundaries Activity vs. Value: Recognizing when too much busyness is displacing your crucial leadership work Leadership Operating Reset: Three pillars for relief—control the flow of demands, clarify decision processes, and align operating rhythms Delegation and Decision Rights: How enabling others to act boosts effectiveness and relieves pressure Killer Quote : “ You’re making the greatest impact when you’re working at your highest value—setting direction, building relationships, and enabling others—not just solving every problem that finds its way to you. ” -Victoria Meyer Other links: Talent Shifts Reshaping the Chemical Industry with Geoff Smith of Mercer (Ep. 274) The Chemical Summit 40 Under 40 in Chemicals

August 11, 2026Episode 27620 min

What's Ahead for Chemicals? | Insights from 2Q2026 Chemical Earnings - Ep. 276

REGISTRATION IS OPEN for The Chemical Summit. Held on September 29-30, 2026 in Houston, Texas . Visit thechemicalsummit.com Victoria Meyer breaks down second quarter 2026 earnings results from across the chemical industry, pulling out the trends, strategies, and market shifts that matter to business leaders. With Q2 numbers in and disruption still echoing from the ongoing war in Iran, many companies saw stronger results. Victoria cuts through the headlines to clarify what’s really happening beneath the surface: better results are mostly price-driven, not volume-led, signaling that supply disruptions and strategic positioning are behind the recent boost. She highlights the critical role of location, sustained portfolio reshaping, and why transformation efforts will continue as demand fundamentals hold steady. Key discussion areas this week: Earnings Snapshots: How Dow’s rapid price increases and BASF’s portfolio moves helped deliver strong quarters. War in Iran & Industry Impact: Concrete effects on supply chains, feedstock availability, and why regional advantages are more crucial than ever. Geographical Advantage: How US-based and European manufacturers leveraged disruption, and why location remains a primary driver of competitive edge. Portfolio Restructuring: Ongoing business reshaping at the executive level, including recent M&A and divestitures from BASF, Dow, IMCD, Brenntag, and Univar. Value Migration: Shifts towards differentiated products and growth sectors such as electronics, healthcare, personal care, and data center support. Leadership Discipline: What CEOs are saying (and not saying) about capital allocation, resilience, and sticking to fundamentals as Q3 and Q4 approach. Killer Quote : " Competitive advantage isn't coming from one place. It's coming from a combination of execution, portfolio choices, customer focus, and the ability to adapt faster than the market around you. " - Victoria Meyer Other links: Mid-Year Earnings Reset : Access the episode and workbook referenced by Victoria for practical strategic planning. In-Depth Analysis : Listen to the recent episode with John Richardson on supply-demand fundamentals and China’s impact.

August 4, 2026Episode 27535 min

Beyond Price: Building Competitive Advantage with Bob Tauchen of Coim - Ep. 275

REGISTRATION IS OPEN for The Chemical Summit. Held on September 29-30, 2026 in Houston, Texas . Visit thechemicalsummit.com Navigating growth, leadership, and innovation in polyurethanes, Robert (Bob) Tauchen , VP of Polyurethanes at the Coim Group , joins Victoria Meyer for an expert look at how the industry is adapting to shifting markets and new technologies. Bob explains Coim’s global strategy as a family-owned Italian company investing deeply in the US, first in New Jersey, and now expanding to Texas to address the evolving needs of North American customers. Victoria and Bob discuss the realities of growth expectations post-COVID, why long-term vision is essential in the chemical industry, and how relationships, trust, and reliability drive success in the US market. They also explore how leadership styles are changing with new generations, the stressors facing today’s teams, and why building context and motivation is more important than ever. Key topics this week include: Global Expansion: How Coim’s strategy balances investment, logistics, and customer proximity in the US Industry Recovery: The impact of COVID-era growth spikes and how to reset realistic performance goals US Market Dynamics: Why trust, reliability, and local presence matter more than price Leadership Today: Managing across generations, keeping teams engaged, and adapting to new expectations AI in Chemicals: Where AI brings value, why implementation is complex, and the need for thoughtful investment Killer Quote: “ The short-term growth addiction that I see, people make bad decisions..... we got addicted to this COVID profit margin return to significant growth. ” — Bob Tauken Other links: Polyurethanes Technical Conference (CPI): Learn more and register for the upcoming event in Orlando here .

July 28, 2026Episode 27423 min

Talent Shifts Reshaping the Chemical Industry with Geoff Smith of Mercer - Ep. 274

REGISTRATION IS OPEN for The Chemical Summit. Held on September 29-30, 2026 in Houston, Texas . Visit thechemicalsummit.com On this episode of The Chemical Show, Geoff Smith , partner at Mercer , joins Victoria Meyer to unpack what’s really changing in the chemical industry’s talent landscape. Drawing on Mercer’s recent Global Talent Trends Survey , Geoff explains why employee thriving is down, especially among managers, and what leaders can do to support and engage their people in a fast-changing, tech-enabled world. Victoria and Geoff discuss the impact of AI and rapid change on jobs, the shift toward flatter organizational structures, and how career progression is evolving. They offer actionable advice for leaders and professionals: communicate with authenticity, clarify career paths, and foster continual learning. The importance of context and judgment, alongside technology skills, gets special attention. Tune in for key takeaways: Why employee thriving is dropping and what this means for managers How AI and technology are changing, but not replacing, critical roles The reality of career paths in a flatter organization Leadership priorities: building skills, supporting managers, and clear communication Practical guidance for professionals navigating the “messy middle” of their careers Killer Quote: " You own your career and the trajectory. Always invest in yourself by continuous learning... It should be okay to ask questions so that you get clarity so that you can do your job. " -- Geoff Smith

July 21, 2026Episode 27340 min

How AI Is Transforming Chemical Shipping and Supply Chains with Josh Luby of Veson Nautical - Ep. 273

REGISTRATION IS OPEN for The Chemical Summit. Held on September 29-30, 2026 in Houston, Texas . Visit thechemicalsummit.com AI is fundamentally changing the game for maritime shipping and supply chain management, especially when global disruptions and unstructured data make traditional approaches less effective. Victoria Meyer sits down with Josh Luby , Director of Product Management at Veson Nautical , to discuss how artificial intelligence, through tools like Veson’s Co Captain, is helping companies move from reactive problem-solving to proactive decision-making. Josh sheds light on the complexity of chemical shipping, the challenges of harmonizing communications, and how Veson’s AI leverages decades of domain knowledge to tackle real-world business needs. Their conversation explores the impact of geopolitical shocks, the critical importance of data governance and trust in connected systems, and the measurable ROI chemical companies are already seeing from smarter, more predictive supply chain tools. Whether it's optimizing demurrage claims or enabling faster response to global disruptions, AI is unlocking new levels of reliability and strategic advantage across the industry. Key topics addressed this week: The expanding role of AI in chemical and maritime shipping Challenges and lessons learned from rolling out enterprise-scale AI Reducing complexity in demurrage claims and supply chain communication Applying technology during supply chain shocks Strategies for governing data and building user trust with connected platforms The shift from reactive to proactive decision-making across the shipping lifecycle Killer Quote: “ You can throw AI terms on top of anything, but it really matters how the data is that’s feeding into that AI and what knowledge that AI is given. Without historical knowledge and logic, you’re not going to be able to get the right answer. ” — Josh Luby Other links: Per Ostman - Episode 228

July 14, 2026Episode 27231 min

From Transformation to Advantage with Hexion’s Michael Lefenfeld (Revisited) - Ep. 272

REGISTRATION IS OPEN for The Chemical Summit. Held on September 29-30, 2026 in Houston, Texas . Visit thechemicalsummit.com With the 2026 Chemical Summit on the horizon and Michael Lefenfeld set as the keynote speaker , this timely re-release spotlights his leadership at Hexion as the company moves beyond traditional chemicals into technology-enabled solutions. Victoria Meyer and Michael dig into the pressures facing the industry, from increasing customer demands and global competition to the need for digital transformation and resilient supply chains. Their conversation covers Hexion’s approach to innovation through AI-powered systems, the shift to customer partnerships, and talent strategies for a rapidly changing workforce. For business leaders anticipating the themes of the upcoming Chemical Summit, this episode offers practical insights on transformation and sustainable growth in today’s industry landscape. Join us to learn more about the following topics this week: Fast-paced transformation in private equity environments Hexion’s journey: legacy, rebranding, and global reach Moving from commodity supplier to solutions provider Using AI and digital tools to improve manufacturing and product quality Addressing workforce shifts and talent needs in chemicals Core leadership lessons: curiosity, collaboration, and diversity Killer Quote: " It's really about that empowerment of information and that spread of knowledge across the organization... I surround myself with the smartest people I can. It makes my job really easy. " — Michael Lefenfeld Other links: Learn more about the 2026 Chemical Summit: https://www.thechemicalsummit.com

July 7, 2026Episode 27121 min

Mid-Year Reset Checklist for Leaders (2026 Edition) - Ep. 271

REGISTRATION IS OPEN for The Chemical Summit. Held on September 29-30, 2026 in Houston, Texas . Visit thechemicalsummit.com Download the Executive Discussion Guide: https://www.thechemicalshow.com/midyear How do you reset your business and leadership strategy when the world refuses to stick to the plan? Victoria King Meyer brings a midyear perspective on the dramatic changes shaping the chemical industry in 2026, ranging from supply chain disruptions caused by geopolitical tensions to the accelerating implementation of AI and ongoing restructuring across global markets. Victoria shares a blueprint for turning uncertainty into opportunity as she breaks down three essential resets for both organizations and individual leaders. She highlights the importance of reassessing assumptions, reallocating resources, and building adaptability at every level. With actionable advice and a practical executive discussion guide, this episode offers chemical industry professionals a timely roadmap to recalibrate for a stronger second half of the year. Join us this week as Victoria Meyer covers: The necessity of resetting your business plan when the world changes How supply chain and geopolitical risks have shifted industry priorities Moving AI and digital tools from experimentation to value creation Three conversations every leadership team needs to have this summer Building adaptability and removing organizational friction The role of leadership attention, impact, and redefining success in tough times Actionable steps for setting a new personal and professional scorecard for 2026 (00:00) - Intro (00:27) - Entering 2026 With a Plan vs. Today’s Reality (01:22) - Geopolitical Events: War in Iran and Global Supply Chains (02:01) - Industry Restructuring and Strategic Shifts (02:26) - Transitioning AI From Experimentation to ROI (04:57) - Rethinking Business Assumptions for the Second Half (06:21) - Reallocating Advantage - Making Critical Choices (07:46) - Building Organizational Adaptability (11:16) - Resetting Leadership Focus and Effectiveness (16:40) - Redefining Success and Measuring Personal Impact (20:12) - Embracing the Reset — Fresh Start for the Second Half (20:56) - Outro Killer Quote: “ Plans matter, but assumptions matter even more. And when assumptions change, you, leaders, have a choice. Continue executing on yesterday’s plan, or recalibrate, make trade-offs, and adapt faster than the market around you. ” – Victoria Meyer Other links: Download the Executive Discussion Guide: https://www.thechemicalshow.com/midyear Listen to executive perspectives from S&P Global and Chemical Market Analytics ( Episode 250 )

June 30, 2026Episode 27028 min

China’s Opportunistic Moves and Changing Dynamics in Asia’s Chemical Industry with John Richardson - Ep. 270

REGISTRATION IS OPEN for The Chemical Summit. Held on September 29-30, 2026 in Houston, Texas . Visit thechemicalsummit.com John Richardson , Director of Market Insights at ICIS , joins host Victoria Meyer to unpack the turbulence of 2026 in the global chemical markets. John shares perspectives on how the Middle East conflict rapidly shifted the market from chronic oversupply to acute undersupply, sending shockwaves through supply chains. The conversation highlights China’s evolving strategy, moving from a net importer to a net exporter of key petrochemicals, alongside the roles of stockpiling, export push, and moving down the cost curve. Victoria and John discuss the growing divide between Asian producers, with Chinese assets better positioned than those in Northeast Asia, which have struggled with costly feedstocks and plant shutdowns. John explains how anti-dumping measures and the proliferation of safeguard policies are influencing global trade, and why project delays and overinvestment may push out recovery timelines. Looking ahead, John outlines the key market and geopolitical signals to watch for as the industry navigates through uncertainty. Key topics covered: Effects of the Middle East crisis on chemical supply chains and market pricing China’s rapid shift from importer to exporter and its impact on global markets The influence of cost, integration, and energy targets on China’s chemical industry Why some plants may not restart and the long-term view on capacity and demand The future of project investment and what signals indicate market recovery Killer Quote: " Chaos. If you were sitting in the markets on 28th of February, your main concern was over supply...then suddenly it was an under supply crisis when the strait closed... " – John Richardson Other Links: John Richardson

June 23, 2026Episode 26917 min

How Leading Companies are Reshaping Chemical Industry Landscape in 2026 - Ep. 269

REGISTRATION IS OPEN for The Chemical Summit. Held on September 29-30, 2026 in Houston, Texas . Visit thechemicalsummit.com Restructuring, mergers, and a fundamental reevaluation of competitive advantage are reshaping the chemical industry at a rapid pace. Host Victoria Meyer reviews recent headline-making events, from Evonik's major portfolio changes and Huntsman and Olin’s proposed merger to Trinseo’s bankruptcy and Syensqo’s portfolio review. Victoria explores what it means for companies to build sustainable value and rethink where true advantage lies. The episode frames the upcoming Chemical Summit’s theme, “Reshaping Advantage,” and urges listeners to consider whether their current strategies and business models will be enough for the future. Key topics in this episode: Industry Restructuring: Major moves from Evonik, Huntsman-Olin, Trinseo, and others... Portfolio Strategy: Shedding legacy businesses and optimizing future growth. Financial Fundamentals: Why improving cash flow and reducing debt are now front and center. Global Market Shifts: The end of China-led demand growth and evolving geopolitical influences. Leadership Priorities: Rethinking business models, talent needs, and the importance of resilient organizations. Upcoming Chemical Summit: Preview of the conference’s four pillars—strategy in a fragmented market, people, execution/resilience, and technology. Killer Quote : " Business is going to be won differently in five years from now than it was over the past 35 years. " —Victoria Meyer Other links: The Chemical Summit

June 16, 2026Episode 26816 min

5 Critical Success Factors for Enterprise AI Success | Beyond the Chat Prompt with Victoria King Meyer - Ep. 268

REGISTRATION IS OPEN for The Chemical Summit. Held on September 29-30, 2026 in Houston, Texas . Visit thechemicalsummit.com What truly sets apart companies succeeding with AI from those still stuck in pilot mode? Host Victoria Meyer unpacks the five critical capabilities every organization needs to translate AI experimentation into measurable business value. Drawing on industry research and real-world conversations with chemical leaders, Victoria highlights why enterprise AI success depends less on technology and more on organizational approach. Victoria outlines how strong governance, connected data systems, organizational context, leadership, and a sharp focus on value creation are the real game changers. She shares practical examples, including a mid-sized chemical distributor reshaping its business by integrating AI with thoughtful leadership and context. Tune in for smart strategies chemical industry professionals can use to move AI from concept to competitive advantage. Join this episode to learn about: The five critical capabilities for enterprise AI success. Practical examples from chemical industry leaders who are moving from experimentation to measurable ROI. The role of leadership in championing and scaling AI projects. Why business value, not just efficiency, is the true measure of AI success today. Killer Quote : " Enterprise AI success isn't determined by the model you choose... it's really determined by the organizational capabilities you build around AI. " — Victoria Meyer Other links: Unlocking ROI with AI in Chemicals | Insights from Kendall Justiniano

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