The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk Business

Join industry leaders at The Chemical Summit 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: 

Creators and Guests

Host
Victoria Meyer
Host of The Chemical Show; founder and President of Progressio Global

What is The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk Business?

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