The speed of communication during a crisis can determine whether a company maintains control of its story or loses it to speculation and misinformation. Gerard Braud, crisis communications expert, joins host Victoria Meyer to share real-world insights from decades of experience in both journalism and the chemical industry, emphasizing the critical need for rapid, clear, and well-prepared communication when incidents occur.

Together, they explore how chemical companies can build effective crisis communication strategies, prepare holding statements, tackle challenges like incomplete information and confidentiality, and leverage tools such as SituationHub to streamline the process. With practical examples and straightforward advice, Gerard and Victoria discuss why preparation on a “clear, sunny day” is essential to protect revenue, reputation, and brand in the face of crisis—highlighting what every chemical industry leader should know before the next incident hits the news.

Learn more about these topics this week:

• Inside the Mind of a Crisis Expert: Gerard Braud's career from his early days as a TV journalist to a crisis communications advisor for the industry.
• Redefining Crisis Response: why traditional, slow corporate communication puts companies at risk
• Mistakes Companies Make: what happens when companies don’t prepare
• The New Rules of Media Engagement
• Leadership on the Worst Day

Other Links:

Managing Crisis Communications: How To Save Your Reputation With Gerard Braud

00:00 Crisis Communications in Chemicals

03:32 Streamlining Crisis Communications

07:33 Crisis Communication Tool: SituationHub

12:49 "Crisis Communication Holding Statement"

15:04 App Privacy and HIPAA Compliance

17:58 "Effective Media Training with Scripts"

21:29 Crisis Communication Strategy Essentials

25:29 Rethinking PR Quotes and Efficiency

26:32 Manipulating Media with Built-In Quotes

30:18 Engage, Share, Stay Tuned

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Starting your career is more than landing that first job—it’s about building a foundation for lifelong growth and opportunity. With graduation season in full swing, Victoria Meyer shares her most impactful career advice for new graduates in and beyond the chemical industry, drawing on insights from industry leaders and her own journey. From embracing the career marathon to building a strong network or “work posse,” finding your expertise, and knowing when to speak up, Victoria offers practical tips that every professional can use—whether you’re just starting out or looking to advance your career.

Financial wisdom, communication skills, and seizing new opportunities are at the heart of this episode, alongside the encouragement to take calculated risks and develop a joy for success over fear of failure. Perfect for bookmarking and sharing with colleagues or the new grads in your life, this episode delivers concise guidance and inspiration for anyone ready to thrive in their professional journey.

Get ready for an in-depth look at these topics this week:

• 00:00 Career Advice for Chemical Professionals
• 03:35 Career Advice: Embrace the Journey
• 06:50 Build Your Posse
• 11:50 "Seize Opportunities"
• 13:14 Career Growth Takes Time
• 17:16 "Communication: Key to Success"
• 20:12 Congrats, Class of 2025!

Tariffs are shaking up the global chemical industry this year, creating uncertainty and shifting longstanding trade routes in unexpected ways. Victoria Meyer is joined by Joseph Chang and Al Greenwood of ICIS Chemical Business to break down the latest round of tariffs, including the dramatic 145% rate on Chinese imports and the sweeping, if temporary, 10% baseline affecting nearly every other country. They analyze how chemical markets from the US to Europe and Asia are being impacted, exploring falling product prices, disrupted supply chains, and the broader economic pressures facing manufacturers and end users alike.

With insights into policy-driven chaos, shifting sourcing strategies, and the growing ripple effects on sectors like housing and automotive, this episode highlights why strategic scenario planning, supply chain transparency, and adaptability are more critical than ever for chemical leaders.

Get ready for an in-depth look at these topics this week:

• Exploring the 2025 tariff policies and how they are reshaping chemical trade flows
• The economic ripple effects of the tariff policies
• Supply chain resilience and why chemical companies must map their entire supply chains
• Energy market dynamics: what is benefitting US chemical producers and what are the challenges
• Strategic planning in uncertainty and navigating the 90-day tariff pause

Killer Quote: "Look at your supply chains. Which products are you getting from Vietnam? Which products are you getting from lower tariff countries? And see where is the most advantageous supplier with the tariffs, and also look at product substitution... You have to be cognizant, not just of your supplies, but also your products. Which products could be affected by influx of displaced shipments?" - Al Greenwood

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***Don’t miss an episode: Subscribe to The Chemical Show on your favorite podcast player.
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Join chemical industry leaders, innovators, and experts at the Canadian Petrochemical Summit—the premier event for advancing the future of Canada's petrochemical sector. Set in the Canadian Rocky Mountains from June 17-19 this event will help you stay ahead of the curve. See you in the Rockies.