Smart Acids™

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.

Join hosts Andy and Chris as they dive into the complexities of tariffs and their impact on the chemical industry in this enlightening episode of the Smart Acids Podcast. Featuring expert insights from Dwayne Roark, VP of Corporate Affairs, Communications & Marketing at Univar Solutions, this episode explores historical tariff acts, current updates, and innovative strategies to navigate these challenges. Discover the best path forward for the industry and learn how we can stick together and thrive despite obstacles. Listen in for a discussion you won't want to miss!  02:44 Country Tariff Quiz: Does Dwayne know where the country is located or product the we most import from there?07:23 Dwayne Roark explains his professional background and career08:00 2025: The Year of the T's10:47 History of Tariff's14:21  The Tariff at Home Game - Key Terms17:07 What is going on in 2025?24:58 Is there an end in sight?29:33 Next steps for the Chemical Industry33:50 Timeline for North AmericaSmart 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.

In this episode, the Smart Acids hosts welcome Joe 'Sherlock' Holmes, Business Development Manager, Electronics. Joe gives us a glimpse into the world of semiconductors and paints a vivid picture of the industry's ecosystem. He'll also provide insights into how vital the right chemistry solutions are and why he is optimistic about what lies ahead for the chip industry. 01:03 Joe 'Sherlock' Holmes explains his professional background and career02:21 Chips quiz: Does Joe know chips?04:35 The semiconductor ecosystem05:30 CHIPS Act: Its correlation to industry growth, economic and national security07:33 Examining the low 2023 market and rebound potential 09:15 Key end markets and how they are changing10:55 Expected expansion and key industry players12:10 How chemistry solutions play a vital role in the semiconductor market14:20 Ready or not: Are chemical producers positioned to handle future growth? 16:28 FAQ: Why would purity requirements for electronics be more stringent than for pharma?19:27 How high-purity chemistries play into sustainability/circular economy21:00 Key takeaways: The history and future of the market, and its capacitySmart 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.

Smart Acids welcome back both Duane 'Papa Z' Ziolkoswki and Rick 'Ricky Lee' Roth.  In this special episode Duane and Rick provide a retrospective on each of their 40+ year careers, the distribution industry over time, what has changed and what has remained constant. 01:30 – Papa Z shows up in a suit and tie and turns the tables with a surprise quiz04:30 – Chemical distribution over time, including changes in distributor makeup, technical support and access, global connectedness07:11 – People and tech-related trends09:37 – Quiz: Rick ‘Ricky Lee' Roth gets tested on all things retirement12:12 – Rick's experience and backstory in the industry12:40 – Changes observed in the speed, communications and relationship-building within the industry15:15 – People and tech-related trends and what Rick wish he knew back whenSmart 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.

Learn about the alcohol market's ups and downs and gain valuable insights into what's ahead for IPA and ethanol.    The Smart Acids hosts welcome Duane "Papa Z" Ziolkowski, Product Director, Solvents for Univar Solutions. Listen as he explores the industry's latest market trends, including: Pricing fluctuationsChanging marketEnd-use evolution01:50 – Welcome back, Papa Z02:12 – Quiz: inventions that didn't exist before Duane's 40-year career04:40 – Fickle propylene, pricing roller coaster07:20 – Forward-looking view on propylene and IPA through 202409:05 – Ethanol market dynamics10:36 – Synthetic market flux11:46 – End market applications, impact of weight-loss drug surge12:28 – Clean label demands and the return of ethanolSmart 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.

What's the current state of our global supply chain and what's driving costs, efficiencies and risk to the maritime shipping network?  The Smart Acids return to navigate what's happening at sea with Jeff “Starbuck” Dixon, Director of International Trade Services for Univar Solutions. Listen now as Dixon discusses how carriers are withstanding disruptions such as the Baltimore Key Bridge incident, how the supply chain is impacted by geopolitical factors, climate change and associated regulations, artificial intelligence, and more.3:10 - Bonus game: Chris and Andy put Jeff to the test on all things related to ships!5:46 - Baltimore Port recovery6:50 - Geopolitical impacts on shipping8:09 - "China Plus One" logistics and commodities8:40 - Shifting sourcing in international supply chain9:09 - Environmental and climate impacts + alternative fuels10:38 - Regulatory perspective and carbon taxes12:00 - Cybersecurity safety and risk + port automationSmart 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.

What's shaping the future of food and beverage markets? Chef Mike Haracz brings his corporate chef expertise to the Smart Acids table to discuss the innovative landscape of the food industry and culinary product development. Let's dig into top food trends of 2024, including cost engineering, manufacturing better-for-you products, and reformulating with wholesome, healthier ingredients for health and nutrition. As Smart Acids host Andy Erickson says, "give it a tasty! Bonus game: Do you know your dining table etiquette?Chef Mike Haracz is an R&D professional with more than 18 years of experience working for a variety of food manufacturers and major restaurant chains, and as a consultant.  He is currently the corporate chef and culinary development lead for Foodology by Univar Solutions and runs their culinary innovation center at The Hatchery Chicago. 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.

"Everything in our world is chemistry and chemistry is everywhere in our lives," - David Allen Cole, CEO of the Science History InstituteThis episode is one for the history books. Smart Acids hosts Andy Erickson and Chris Ernst welcome "The Historian" David Allen Cole, CEO of the Science History Institute, to share stories and historical context around the perception of chemicals, areas of upcoming chemistry innovation, historical scares and advances within chemistry, and how the chemical industry's past informs our present as we innovate and solve for the future.  Bonus: Dwayne "The Rock" Roark, Univar Solutions VP Public Affairs, Government Relations and Communications, drops in (14:36) to school us on the Univar Solutions origin story as the organization approaches its 100-year anniversary with sharing our own history of innovation.Dive into more history at sciencehistory.orgSmart 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.

Smart Acids hosts Andy Erickson and Chris Ernst welcome Detroit native and BASF Strategic Customer Network Leader Jarrett "Hustle" Russell to share a global outlook about what's happening with production and demand across Europe, Asia-Pacific, and North America. Tune in for a chemical industry insider's take on potential challenges associated with economic recovery and the value of the producer/distributor relationship. BASF is a European multinational company and the largest chemical producer in the world, with headquarters located in Ludwigshafen, Germany.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.

Smart Acids hosts Andy and Chris welcome Chris "The Foreman" McAfee, Senior Director of Energy Upstream at Univar Solutions, for a view on the oil and gas industry landscape, what's ahead for commodities, and the rising price per barrel. But first, see if an uncaffeinated Chris lives up to his Energy Director credentials when he takes the Smart Acids Energy Drink quiz.   4:58 – Energy sector breakdown: Upstream, Downstream, Midstream  5:43 – Energy market overview 6:53 – Oil & gas outlook  8:14 – Green energy movement and its impact on oil & gas industry 9:15 – Growing gas prices going forward and $200 oil barrels?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.

Smart Acids hosts Andy and Chris welcome back our resident expert of alcohol (the alcohol with two carbons, aka ethanol), Product Director Duane "Papa Z" Ziolkowski, for a quick rundown of the different classifications and regulatory requirements of ethanol products.1:33 - Differences among ethanol classifications 2:00 - Undenatured ethanol2:14 - Specially denatured alcohol 3:30 - Distilled spirits permit4:25 - Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB.gov) and SDA formulations5:45 - How Univar Solutions can help you navigate this product market intelSmart 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.

Returning guest Duane "Papa Z" Ziolkowski, product director at Univar Solutions, talks about all things ethanol, including its changing landscape, the role of imports and non-GMO, and how this essential – and circular – product moves from fuel to industrial to beverage and food-grade alcohols. Tune in for product insights and test your musical knowledge as we go through the changes. 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.

Smart Acids hosts Andy Erickson and Chris Ernst welcome Univar Solutions VP Industrial Solutions Michael ‘Diamond Delli' DelliCompagni to talk about the industrial side of specialty chemicals, market moves in this segment, how the cost of borrowing is impacting manufacturers, and what's most exciting about upcoming trends. Also, find out how you measure up against our guest in the ‘rhymes with gritty' 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.

Smart Acids hosts Andy Erickson, Chris Ernst and special guest host Dwayne ‘the self-proclaimed Rock' Roark welcome CEO of the National Association of Chemical Distributors (NACD), Eric ‘the filibuster' Byer, to talk critical policy issues facing the chemical distribution industry and the role that NACD is playing.Special guest host intro, Dwayne ‘the self-proclaimed Rock' Roark (1:55)Welcome Eric ‘the fillibuster' Byer (3:25)Bonus round: Do you know your fictional CEOs? (5:03)Current political climate in Washington, D.C. (7:25)Railway Safety Act – the junction of union + pro-business NACD (8:55)Other current key industry trends (12:23)NACD updates and how to get involved (13:30)Environmental justice and Responsible Distribution (15:07)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, director of product marketing, Essential Chemicals, and Chris Ernst, senior director of product marketing, Solvents, converse with guests from chemistry and specialty ingredient backgrounds who are keyed in to manufacturing and markets across industries.Univar Solutions (NYSE: UNVR) 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.

Let's talk all things ag – seasons, cycles, and other organic matters. Special guest Christian Jeuris, Agriculture Business Development Manager at Univar Solutions, helps us get to the bottom of Agriculture's cyclical market, the state of the upcoming season, current industry challenges, and the latest innovations. Think product synergies and soil health. Why are players in the Ag space bullish on our present market? We've got you covered but not before the Smart Acids Ag Quiz puts Christian's and our listeners' knowledge to the test.  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.About the hosts: Andy Erickson, director of product marketing, Essential Chemicals, and Chris Ernst, senior director of product marketing, Solvents, converse with guests from chemistry and specialty ingredient backgrounds who are keyed in to manufacturing and markets across industries.About Univar Solutions: Univar Solutions (NYSE: UNVR) is a leading global specialty chemical and ingredient distributor representing a premier portfolio from the world's leading producers. 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, the Company is well-positioned to offer tailored solutions and value-added services to a wide range of markets, industries and applications. While fulfilling its purpose to help keep communities healthy, fed, clean and safe, Univar Solutions is committed to helping customers and suppliers innovate and focus on Growing Together.

Smart Acids host Andy Erickson and the hops to his hazy pale ale, co-host Chris Ernst, talk IPAs – isopropyl alcohol vs the latest craft brews – with Product Director Duane "Papa Z" Ziolkowski. Hear market updates and pricing dynamics for ethanol, IPA, and propylene.Bonus round: do you know your IPAs and pale ales?IPA UpdatesPropylene pricing dynamicsCircularity and pushing for reuseEthanol UpdatesSustainability push into formulationsFuel players moving into industrial200 vs 190 proof?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.About the hosts: Andy Erickson, director of product marketing, Essential Chemicals, and Chris Ernst, senior director of product marketing, Solvents, converse with guests from chemistry and specialty ingredient backgrounds who are keyed in to manufacturing and markets across industries.About Univar Solutions: Univar Solutions (NYSE: UNVR) is a leading global specialty chemical and ingredient distributor representing a premier portfolio from the world's leading producers. 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, the Company is well-positioned to offer tailored solutions and value-added services to a wide range of markets, industries and applications. While fulfilling its purpose to help keep communities healthy, fed, clean and safe, Univar Solutions is committed to helping customers and suppliers innovate and focus on Growing Together.

Breaker-Breaker...Transportation Leader Rob McRae knows what's driving the future of distribution. In this episode, McRae takes a comparative look at the truck transportation subsector and current state of today's carriers, and why our very own Univar Solutions fleet – the largest private fleet inside the chemical industry – can go the distance for customers. 10-4."It's a hyper inflated or hyper deflated market," McRae reports. "Only if you have good predictive analytics can you afford to do an annual bid. But an annual bid will really help to mitigate some of those cost inflation points. So, if we have good data to support when and how many loads we will have to give to our carriers, then they'll sign up for longer rate commitments, which in turn will mitigate our exposure to the spot market, which in turn will yield higher margins and better service."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.About the hosts: Andy Erickson, director of product marketing, Essential Chemicals, and Chris Ernst, senior director of product marketing, Solvents, converse with guests from chemistry and specialty ingredient backgrounds who are keyed in to manufacturing and markets across industries.About Univar Solutions: Univar Solutions (NYSE: UNVR) is a leading global specialty chemical and ingredient distributor representing a premier portfolio from the world's leading producers. 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, the Company is well-positioned to offer tailored solutions and value-added services to a wide range of markets, industries and applications. While fulfilling its purpose to help keep communities healthy, fed, clean and safe, Univar Solutions is committed to helping customers and suppliers innovate and focus on Growing Together.

Transportation Logistician Rob “The Rainmaker” McRae has a passion for all things that move. In this episode, McRae gives the Smart Acids team a market update on the rail transportation subsector, current freight shipping capacity, talk of rail-related embargoes, and what is affecting the overall health of today's rail network. "For us as a chemical and ingredient distributor and others in the chemical market, it's important to view capacity as a long-term investment and establish those partnerships as opposed to the short-term rate negotiations," McRae reports.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.About the hosts: Andy Erickson, director of product marketing, Essential Chemicals, and Chris Ernst, senior director of product marketing, Solvents, converse with guests from chemistry and specialty ingredient backgrounds who are keyed in to manufacturing and markets across industries.About Univar Solutions: Univar Solutions (NYSE: UNVR) is a leading global specialty chemical and ingredient distributor representing a premier portfolio from the world's leading producers. 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, the Company is well-positioned to offer tailored solutions and value-added services to a wide range of markets, industries and applications. While fulfilling its purpose to help keep communities healthy, fed, clean and safe, Univar Solutions is committed to helping customers and suppliers innovate and focus on Growing Together.

Let's talk Chlor-Alkali market dynamics. What does the chlorine and caustic demand situation look like globally? The Smart Acids team closes out the year with Univar Solutions Chlor-Alkali VP Gary "The Czar" Gable giving a big picture view of the Chlor-Alkali market.  Thanks for listening to Smart Acids, a Univar Solutions podcast, where we let borons be borons, and tune in next year for more episodes from Andy and the Heartbreaker. Until then, have a happy, safe, and healthy holiday season!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.About the hosts: Andy Erickson, director of product marketing, Essential Chemicals, and Chris Ernst, senior director of product marketing, Solvents, converse with guests from chemistry and specialty ingredient backgrounds who are keyed in to manufacturing and markets across industries.

What industries are delivering upside in today's chemicals and ingredients market, and what's driving the future of distribution for 2023? With more than 30 years' experience in the business, "Magic Man" Dan Matheny, VP of Product Management for Solvents, gives us the situation on crude oil and its direct derivatives. Brian "The Big Deal" Jurcak, Senior VP of Product Marketing Management, offers a recap of the NACD (National Association of Chemical Distributors) annual meeting, including his take on markets poised for growth, fundamental changes to the chemical industry in Europe, and the importance of blending specialty knowledge with reliable supply chain solutions. 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.About the hosts: Andy Erickson, director of product marketing, Essential Chemicals, and Chris Ernst, senior director of product marketing, Solvents, converse with guests from chemistry and specialty ingredient backgrounds who are keyed in to manufacturing and markets across industries.Forward-Looking StatementsThis podcast includes certain statements relating to future events and our intentions, beliefs, expectations, and predictions for the future, which are "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties, many of which may be beyond the Company's control. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the expectations and assumptions. A detailed discussion of these factors and uncertainties is contained in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.  We caution you that the forward-looking information presented in this podcast is not a guarantee of future events or results, and that actual events or results may differ materially from those made in or suggested by the forward-looking information contained in this recording. In addition, forward-looking statements generally can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "may," "plan," "seek, "will," "expect," "intend," "estimate," "anticipate," "believe" or "continue" or the negative thereof or variations thereon or similar terminology. Any forward-looking information presented herein is made only as of the date of this podcast, and the Company does not undertake any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information to reflect changes in assumptions, the occurrence of unanticipated events, or otherwise, except as required by law.

As Andy waxes poetic about the autumnal shifts of the season, Chris checks in on changes within the Surfactants market with Lidia Smorodina, "The Whispering Assassin" and senior product manager, specialties.Listen now to our latest market report as we dig deeper into why surfactants are rising to become a dynamic mover and Lidia discusses integration and capacity expansion during this exciting time in the product cycle. Andy also checks in with Lidia about ethylene oxide (6:14), and “Jedi” Julie Carnes (7:40), global supplier director for beauty and personal care, joins the conversation to find out more about surfactant trends.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.About the hosts: Andy Erickson, director of product marketing, Essential Chemicals, and Chris Ernst, senior director of product marketing, Solvents, converse with guests from chemistry and specialty ingredient backgrounds who are keyed in to manufacturing and markets across industries.

The Smart Acids are back for a special edition episode featuring the winners of the 2022 National You Be the Chemist Challenge (grades 5-8). Univar Solutions is a proud sponsor of the Chemical Educational Foundation (CEF) annual STEM competition to inspire the next generation of chemistry leaders. Hear this year's award-winning team, the Chemistry Enthusiasts, calling in from high school in Massachusetts to quiz Andy and Chris and find out if they are CEF champion caliber.  *Special guests include our own STEM Ambassador Aileen Doyle followed by Aarushi Khatri, Aaryan Arora, Shakthi Saravanan, and Srinidhi Iyer, who rose to the top of 9,000 students to win the 2022 You Be The Chemist prize and scholarship. 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.CEF is a nonprofit dedicated to building the future STEM workforce. You Be The Chemist programs are designed to inspire students, engage educators, and strengthen communities to build a better world through the science of chemistry.

Smart Acids want to know: How are demands and supplies trending on crude oil? "It's a question of how much supply is needed and how fast," says Billy "The Piano Man" Grohl who returns to give us a market update heading into the end of the year. Grohl is Product Director of Aromatic Hydrocarbons at Univar Solutions. From crude into fuels, hear how downstream product and price volatility is impacting chemical markets – and what you should do to plan ahead.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.About the hosts: Andy Erickson, director of product marketing, Essential Chemicals, and Chris Ernst, senior director of product marketing, Solvents, converse with guests from chemistry and specialty ingredient backgrounds who are keyed in to manufacturing and markets across industries.

What are the biggest challenges that lie ahead for global industries becoming more sustainable? The Smart Acids talk technical with leaders in environmental sustainability, social responsibility, and governance roles at Univar Solutions. Sustainability can mean a lot of different things to a lot of different people. Here's how our guests describe what it means to chemical and ingredient businesses:Kelly Gilroy, VP of sustainability and natural products (12:22): "Efficiency. Think people, planet, and profits. We've got to move from a take, make, and waste society to things like repair, reuse, and reintegrate. When you think about distribution, we're by nature a sustainable business – we take large quantities of materials and make them available to 100,000+ customers. My first big project is finding a way to take sustainability down to the product level."Liam McCarroll, director of global sustainability (1:56): "It's not about greenwashing. Embedding sustainability into the business...and achieving that across the organization is a challenge. We already support customers in getting products and services on time, with great quality. We have to continue doing that and building sustainability into every part, from the beginning to the end of the customer experience."

What's the ripple effect of the revived U.S. superfund-related tax across the chemistries and industries we serve?The Smart Acids get serious with experts from both the tax and commercial side to discuss the superfund tax's ripple effects to 2030 and for years to come. Hear how it impacts both domestic manufacturers and importers and why chemical distributors may be positioned differently than brokers to deal with the change.Episode Guests: Brian "The Taxman" Ritzenhaler (2:15), VP Tax, and Katrina "The Warden" Warnick (9:22), Senior International Trade Manager, Univar SolutionsSmart 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.About the hosts: Andy Erickson, director of product marketing, Essential Chemicals, and Chris Ernst, senior director of product marketing, Solvents, converse with guests from chemistry and specialty ingredient backgrounds who are keyed in to manufacturing and markets across industries.

On the latest episode of the Smart Acids, hear Univar Solutions Chlor-Alkali VP Gary 'the czar' Gable (01:32) break down the Chlor-Alkali market, global trade dynamics and pricing trend predictions. Tom ‘TomKat' Edman (11:05) dives into specifics around caustic soda, and what makes it unique in terms of scale, velocity and security of supply. Finally, ‘Smarty Maarty' Maarten van Ess (15:30) shares more on caustic soda and its dependency on supply chain constraints.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.About the hosts: Andy Erickson, director of product marketing, Essential Chemicals, and Chris Ernst, senior director of product marketing, Solvents, converse with guests from chemistry and specialty ingredient backgrounds who are keyed in to manufacturing and markets across industries.

“If you're importing raw materials, don't run your inventories low. Make sure you're keeping some measure of inventory on hand and a buffer to guard against delays.” Listen as the Smart Acids learn more from International Trade Director Larry ‘Globetrotter' Ogden (02:08) about Omicron in China and its impacts on the interconnected global supply chain for the chemical and ingredients market and beyond. Eric ‘The Hit Man' Emery, product marketing manager, Phosphates, makes a special appearance (10:10) to review market breakdown across demand, supply and related costs—what end-use applications are impacted and how. Finally, David ‘The Forty-Year Old Retiree' Boraks, senior product marketing manager, Surfactants, (14:00) sheds light on this market, applications served, why the market is growing and the rising importance of paying attention to your supply chain.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.About the hosts: Andy Erickson, director of product marketing, Essential Chemicals, and Chris Ernst, senior director of product marketing, Solvents, converse with guests from chemistry and specialty ingredient backgrounds who are keyed in to manufacturing and markets across industries.

Smart Acids goes global and welcomes Rob 'Duke of Solvents' Lawton, business director in EMEA, to discuss the eastern European conflict's short and long-term impacts. Rick Roth, product director of Local Chemical Distribution - Solvents, reviews crude oil volatility and how industry is responding.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. About the hosts: Andy Erickson, director of product marketing, Essential Chemicals, and Chris Ernst, senior director of product marketing, Solvents, converse with guests from chemistry and specialty ingredient backgrounds who are keyed in to manufacturing and markets across industries.

With ports, rails and the trucking network backed up, how are suppliers and distributors navigating the current state of transportation? Listen as Transportation VP Rob 'Rainmaker' McRae talks with the Smart Acids about this critical link in the supply chain.  15:00: Calling all "legit" foodies: gain insights on food industry dynamics and trends from 'Distinguished Professor' Lavanya Venkateswar, food scientist and head of marketing and technical sales for food ingredients in North America, and 'Jumping' Joe Agocs, senior manager of supply management, at Univar Solutions.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. About the hosts: Andy Erickson, director of product marketing, Essential Chemicals, and Chris Ernst, senior director of product marketing, Solvents, converse with guests from chemistry and specialty ingredient backgrounds who are keyed in to manufacturing and markets across industries.

What do crude oil and grunge music have in common—and what's disrupting the propylene market in 2022?Listen as product director Kyle 'Killer B' Stratton shares the latest on propylene supply and 'The Piano Man' Billy Groel, aromatic hydrocarbons & methyl ethyl ketone product director, gets us up to speed on crude oil, hydrocarbons and alternative gas value. 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. About the hosts: Andy Erickson, director of product marketing, Essential Chemicals, and Chris Ernst, senior director of product marketing, Solvents, converse with guests from chemistry and specialty ingredient backgrounds who are keyed in to manufacturing and markets across industries. About Univar Solutions: Univar Solutions (NYSE: UNVR) is a leading global specialty chemical and ingredient distributor representing a premier portfolio from the world's leading producers. 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, the Company is well-positioned to offer tailored solutions and value-added services to a wide range of markets, industries and applications. While fulfilling its purpose to help keep communities healthy, fed, clean and safe, Univar Solutions is committed to helping customers and suppliers innovate and focus on Growing Together. Learn more at univarsolutions.com.Produced by Zeek Agosto, Senior Program Manager - Commercial Development, at Univar Solutions