The View (by: The Chemical Company)

The Chemical Company

The View from Jamestown: Podcast Edition is a monthly chemical industry podcast produced by The Chemical Company, discussing industry, market and pricing trends, updates and ideas surrounding the chemical industry.

  1. Episode 141: Q2 2026 Update with Kathy Hall

    APR 17

    Episode 141: Q2 2026 Update with Kathy Hall

    “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 kathy@bigkathyenergy.com 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.

    47 min
  2. Episode 140: Brian Callahan | Oil, Iran & Tariff Refunds - An Update with ACD

    APR 10

    Episode 140: Brian Callahan | Oil, Iran & Tariff Refunds - An Update with ACD

    “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.

    50 min
  3. Episode 139: AFPM Recap & April Market Update - April 2026

    APR 3

    Episode 139: AFPM Recap & April Market Update - April 2026

    “The View from Jamestown” Chemical Podcast Hosted by The Chemical Company Episode 139 | AFPM 2026 Episode 139 of The View from Jamestown is our 2026 AFPM recap episode! The team recaps conversations around the recent AFPM conference, as well as an update on supply and pricing moving into April 2026. 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 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 their experience at the annual industry conference in San Antonio and breaks down the key themes shaping today’s chemical markets. From widespread uncertainty and global conflict to rapidly shifting supply chains, the conversation highlights how energy disruptions, rising oil prices, and regional supply imbalances are impacting availability, pricing, and strategy across North America, Asia, and beyond. The group shares firsthand insights from meetings with suppliers and customers, including: Tightening global supply and limited raw material availability Price volatility and shortened quote windows Increasing export opportunities from the U.S. The growing importance of agility, communication, and strong partnerships Despite the challenges, the episode emphasizes opportunity—especially for companies that stay proactive, adaptable, and closely connected with their supply chain partners. Key takeaway: In a rapidly changing market, real-time communication, flexibility, and strong relationships are 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.

    42 min
  4. Episode 138: All About Surfactants with Neil Burns

    MAR 17

    Episode 138: All About Surfactants with Neil Burns

    “The View from Jamestown” Chemical Podcast Hosted by The Chemical Company Episode 138 | Surfactants with Neil Burns Episode 138 is an in-depth discussion on the global surfactants market with Managing Partner, Board Member and Consultant Neil Burns. Featuring: Neil Burns Neil A Burns LLC https://www.neilaburns.com/ www.thechemco.com Join us in San Antonio: https://thechemco.com/sanantonio 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 Episode 138 of The View from Jamestown Podcast, we welcome Neil Burns for his first appearance to break down the global surfactants market and the key forces shaping the industry in 2026. From everyday consumer products like detergents and shampoos to large-scale industrial applications, surfactants play a critical role across the global economy. In this episode, we explore what surfactants are, how they’re made, and the complex supply chains behind them. Neil shares insights into: The core feedstocks used in surfactant production and where they come from globally How oil prices, tariffs, and geopolitics are impacting the market Key industry trends over the past 5 years, including post-COVID shifts The role of sustainability and alternative feedstocks in future development Major players in the market—from global producers to emerging innovators M&A activity and how competitive the industry is becoming Why surfactants remain a highly consumable, demand-driven product category What to watch for in the remainder of 2026 We also discuss how branding, formulation, and proprietary technologies influence the market, and why understanding these dynamics is critical for companies operating across the chemical supply chain. Whether you're in chemical distribution, manufacturing, procurement, or logistics, this episode provides valuable perspective on one of the most essential segments of the chemical 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.

    42 min
  5. Episode 137: Communication in Action - February 2026

    FEB 13

    Episode 137: Communication in Action - February 2026

    “The View from Jamestown” Chemical Podcast Hosted by The Chemical Company Episode 137 | February 2026 Episode 137 of The View from Jamestown, our February 2026 edition, includes a compressive update on business thus far in Q1, including how the winter weather is impacting shipments in and around the northeast, and an outlook on demand for the coming months. Featuring: VP Sales & Marketing AJ Petrarca Customer Service Expert Jill Goldstein Sales & Regulatory Manager Kaitlyn Hagan Business Development Agent Jose Gonzalez Host: Marketing & Sales Manager Ben Sawicki From The Logistix Company: Joe Hassenfratz Brian Burns www.thechemco.com Join us in San Antonio: https://thechemco.com/sanantonio 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 🔔 Subscribe for monthly chemical industry updates 📩 Contact The Chemical Company to learn how we can support your business 🌐 Learn more about TCC’s People Not Portals approach 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.

    40 min
  6. Episode 136: New Year Business Uptick - January 2026

    JAN 29

    Episode 136: New Year Business Uptick - January 2026

    “The View from Jamestown” Chemical Podcast Hosted by The Chemical Company Episode 136 | January 2026 Episode 136 kicks off 2026 with a recap of the recent winter storm and impacts, planning around the upcoming Chinese New Year, and TCC’s Cocktail Party & Meetings in San Antonio. Featured products discussed includes Trimellitic Anhydride (TMA), TOTM Plasticizer, 8-10 TM Plasticizer, TINTM Plasticizer and more. Featuring: VP Sales & Marketing AJ Petrarca Latin American Operations Manager Javier Fernandez Inside Sales Manager Nicole Iannuccillo Host: Marketing & Sales Manager Ben Sawicki www.thechemco.com Join us in San Antonio: https://thechemco.com/sanantonio 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 In this episode: - Winter storm fern: what disruptions looked like, and why things largely avoided worst-case outcomes - Energy → chemicals: natural gas moves and what that could mean for methanol and related chemistries - Inventory mindset: “safety stock” and planning ahead when lead times get tight - Import planning: Chinese New Year timing (and why the impact can stretch beyond the official dates) - Sourcing notes: momentum in Asia + growing interest in Latin America for shorter lead times and trade advantages - Tech disruption: what a Microsoft outage looked like operationally (including email + planning systems) - 2026 events: the team shares details on annual cocktail party (March 29 in San Antonio) 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.

    24 min
  7. Episode 135: Q1 2026 Update with Kathy Hall and Miguel Cambeiro

    JAN 9

    Episode 135: Q1 2026 Update with Kathy Hall and Miguel Cambeiro

    “The View from Jamestown” Chemical Podcast Hosted by The Chemical Company Episode 135 | Q1 2026 Update with Kathy Hall Join host Ben Sawicki for our quarterly update with Kathy Hall, and special guest Miguel Cambeiro from OPIS. The group recaps 2025, specifically the last few weeks and months, and a view forward for the early part of 2026. Highlights Include: European rationalization, asset acquisitions and plans Global consumer demand update Venezuela & Impacts to oil prices Stream all of this and more on Episode 135! Including: Miguel Cambeiro: Principal Journalist, Europe - OPIS https://www.linkedin.com/in/miguel-cambeiro-5ba03b22/ Kathy Hall: Executive Director Product Management, Global Petrochemicals - Petrochem Wire khall@opisnet.com 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 What you’ll learn in this episode • Why Europe’s cycle low has lasted unusually long and what that’s triggering across the industry (closures, consolidation, restructurings) the-view-from-jamestown-episode… • The demand problem: how cost of living, inflation, and utility costs are reducing discretionary spend and dampening end-markets like autos and construction the-view-from-jamestown-episode… • Major storyline: SABIC Europe asset sale (and what private equity ownership might change) the-view-from-jamestown-episode… • Why crude near ~$60/bbl and the Venezuela headline matter for the next leg of pricing and competitiveness the-view-from-jamestown-episode… • Europe feedstock & competitiveness: oil-based cost structure, aging units, and the looming impact of new capacity like INEOS Project One (Antwerp) ethane cracker the-view-from-jamestown-episode… • Planning in uncertainty: how market participants are approaching forecasting and “new normal” volatility 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.

    43 min
  8. Episode 134: Holiday Rush! - December 2025

    12/18/2025

    Episode 134: Holiday Rush! - December 2025

    “The View from Jamestown” Chemical Podcast Hosted by The Chemical Company Episode 134 | December 2025 Episode 134 of The View from Jamestown Podcast Edition includes an update on the recent “holiday rush” in business and orders the past few weeks, as well as a deep-dive into logistics trends for year-end and into 2026. Featured products discussed includes Trimellitic Anhydride (TMA), Antimony Trioxide (ATO), Phthalic Anhydride and more. Featuring: Latin American Operations Manager Javier Fernandez Customer Service Manager Jill Goldstein Host: Marketing & Sales Manager Ben Sawicki Including: The Logistix Company Joe Hassenfratz, Jameson Mielde, Brian Burns 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 December 2025 edition of The View From Jamestown, the team recaps year-end momentum across chemicals & materials distribution and logistics—and shares what customers should plan for as we ramp into January and Q1 2026. In this episode, we cover: The year-end “holiday rush” and why terminal/warehouse closures (including the 26th) can impact schedules Winter shipping considerations for liquid freight, including steaming/heating options and cold-weather delays Market signals from a key industry conference: realistic forecasts, interest-rate trends, and impacts on housing, construction, and automotive demand Why “People, Not Portals” keeps winning—relationships, communication, and real-time problem solving TLC’s 2025 recap: spot vs. contract mix, import projects, bonded warehousing, and staying nimble as capacity tightens How to plan ahead for early 2026—including Chinese New Year disruptions (Feb 17–Mar 3) and the ripple effect before/after

    42 min

Ratings & Reviews

4.8
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

The View from Jamestown: Podcast Edition is a monthly chemical industry podcast produced by The Chemical Company, discussing industry, market and pricing trends, updates and ideas surrounding the chemical industry.

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