Rooted in Family, Driven by Chemistry

Smart Acids Podcast | S4E5: Rooted in Family, Driven by Chemistry

In this episode, hosts Andy Erickson and Chris Ernst welcome sibling leaders Shelly Manos and Brandon Lowery from Continental Chemicals, a family-owned business with deep roots in the chemical industry. They share the inspiring story of their father’s entrepreneurial journey, the company’s 50-year legacy, and how their partnership with Univar Solutions has expanded their reach nationally.

From personal customer service to agile problem-solving, Shelly and Brandon highlight what makes Continental Chemicals a unique player in the market—offering the best of both worlds: small business care with large-scale capability.

Plus, enjoy a fun sibling-themed quiz and hear how the chemical industry continues to evolve while staying essential in everyday life.

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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.