Beyond The Blend

Yana Wilkinson

In this episode of Beyond the Blend, Rob sits down with Yana Wilkinson to explore the role of insight, decision-making and leadership in an industry that is constantly evolving.Yana brings a fresh perspective on what market research really is. It’s not just data, reports or databases, it’s about helping businesses make better decisions. Whether that’s through insight, structured thinking or simply acting as a sounding board, the focus is always the same: be useful.A key theme in this conversation is the difference between information and insight. In today’s world, most businesses have access to the same information. The real advantage comes from how that information is interpreted, connected and applied to real decisions.Yana also shares her thoughts on culture and leadership, challenging the idea that culture is something abstract. Instead, it shows up in daily behaviours, decisions and how leaders act under pressure. Strategy and culture aren’t separate, they need to work together.The discussion also explores talent, collaboration and the future of the industry. From attracting the next generation to building meaningful careers, Yana highlights the importance of purpose, learning and creating environments where people can grow.And of course, AI plays a part. Rather than seeing it as something to fear, Yana frames it as a leadership challenge. The question is no longer whether AI will change things, but how leaders choose to understand it, engage with it and guide their teams through it.If you’re interested in how better thinking leads to better decisions, and how leadership, insight and curiosity come together, this episode is well worth your time.If this resonates, take a look at:Selling Lubricants Smarter - A Lubricant Seller’s Journey from Crisis to Success https://sellinglubricantssmarter.com/

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Mike Davidson

Apr 1500:58:22Tap to summarize

In this episode of Beyond the Blend, Steve sits down with Mike Davidson to explore a career shaped by international experience, strong influences, and a thoughtful approach to leadership. From growing up across the Middle East to returning to the UK as a teenager, Mike’s early life gave him a broader view of people, culture and work. That perspective, combined with the influence of his father’s engineering career, helped shape his own path into the industrial world. Starting out in software before quickly realising it wasn’t the right fit, Mike moved into engineering-led environments across pumps, fluid technology and valves, before arriving in speciality lubricants with Klüber. Along the way, he built a leadership style rooted in support, accountability and using data in the right way. A big theme in this conversation is Mike’s view on data and performance. Rather than using numbers to pressure people, he sees data as a way to understand trends, identify roadblocks and help teams improve. It’s a refreshing take on leadership in a world that often becomes too focused on dashboards and not focused enough on people. We also talk about international working, cultural adaptability, sales process, service expertise, and how the lubricant industry is evolving through technology, regulation and changing expectations. If you’re building a career, leading a team, or trying to balance process with people in a technical business, this episode is well worth your time.If this episode resonates, take a look at: Selling Lubricants Smarter – A Lubricant Seller’s Journey from Crisis to Successhttps://sellinglubricantssmarter.com/

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Beyond the Blend - Live!

Apr 101:03:44Tap to summarize

Guests: Jade Thompson (RecondOil / SKF), Nick Forster (CC Jensen), Jamie Shaw (OMS LubriTek)Hosts: Steve Knapp & Rob TaylorIn this special Beyond the Blend Live episode, Steve and Rob sit down in Sheffield with three experienced voices from across the lubricant and reliability community. Recorded during Jade Thompson’s UK Lubricants Social, the conversation explores how the lubricant industry is evolving, from networking and knowledge sharing to changing buyer behaviour, digital engagement and the growing skills gap.What begins as a discussion about the power of industry meet-ups quickly expands into a deeper conversation about how engineers, buyers and technical specialists are adapting to a rapidly changing environment.The panel reflects on how buyers increasingly research and pre-qualify solutions before contacting suppliers, meaning conversations today often start much further along the decision journey. Yet this shift raises an important question: if buyers believe they already know the answer, how do technical experts still validate the right solution?Jade, Nick and Jamie share real examples from the field where experience, application knowledge and on-site insight still prove essential, especially when pre-qualified solutions turn out not to be the right ones.The conversation also explores the changing role of the lubricant professional. Technical credibility, storytelling and education are becoming more important as companies rely on suppliers not just for products, but for insight and validation.A major theme throughout the discussion is the growing skills gap across industry. With experienced engineers retiring and younger professionals entering a more automated and digital workplace, knowledge transfer is becoming a real concern.At the same time, new technologies, particularly AI, are starting to reshape how information is accessed and analysed. The panel reflects on where AI can support efficiency while emphasising that experience, context and judgement still matter.Above all, this episode highlights the importance of community, education and collaboration within the lubricant sector. Events like the UK Lubricants Social demonstrate that even in an increasingly digital world, human connections remain central to solving technical problems and building trust. Key Takeaways* Many lubricant buyers now pre-qualify solutions digitally before speaking to suppliers.* Technical professionals are increasingly acting as validators and educators rather than just product sellers.* The industry faces a growing knowledge gap as experienced engineers retire and fewer young professionals enter the sector.* AI and digital tools can accelerate analysis and decision-making, but experience and application knowledge remain critical.* Building trust still relies heavily on real relationships, practical expertise and shared industry networks. Why This Episode MattersThis conversation shines a light on how the lubricant industry is evolving, technically, commercially and culturally. As digital research, automation and AI reshape the landscape, the role of the experienced professional is becoming more valuable, not less.Understanding how to combine technology, expertise and relationships will define the next generation of lubricant professionals. 🎧 Listen to the full episode to hear the discussion unfold.And if you're interested in how lubricant selling is evolving in the modern buyer landscape…Buy Selling Lubricants Smarter – A Lubricants Seller’s Journey from Crisis to Successhttps://sellinglubricantssmarter.com/Recorded at Three Ravens Studio, Sheffield city centre: https://www.threeravens.agency/podcast-studio

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Cameron Clarke

Mar 1800:54:19Tap to summarize

In this episode of Beyond the Blend, Steve sits down with Cameron Clarke, Head of Sales and Operations at Oil Store, for one of the most honest and human conversations we’ve had on the podcast.Cam didn’t grow up dreaming of lubricants. His journey started on the top deck of a bus, scrolling Indeed, looking for direction. From office administrator to sales leader, from blagging Excel skills at interview to earning the UKLA Certificate of Lubricants Competency with distinction, his path has been shaped by resilience, responsibility and purpose.But this isn’t just a career story.It’s a conversation about:• Becoming a father young and letting that sharpen your focus• Building stability when life hasn’t handed you an easy start• Football, community and charity• Culture over corporate scripting• Sustainability and AI in a human industryThis episode goes well beyond oil and grease. It’s about growth. Key Takeaways1️⃣ Purpose Drives ProgressWhen Cam became a father, the job stopped being “just a job.” Responsibility sharpened ambition. Clarity around what he wanted from life accelerated his learning and performance.2️⃣ You Don’t Need All the AnswersCam entered lubricants with zero product knowledge. His approach? Stay calm, gather information, and go back with the right answer. Accuracy builds trust. Panic doesn’t.3️⃣ Culture Is Lived, Not TrainedAt Oil Store, authenticity isn’t a marketing strategy, it’s how the team operates. New hires are chosen for attitude and coachability. The instruction is simple: be yourself.4️⃣ Community Builds ResilienceFootball and charity initiatives have played a huge role in Cam’s life, raising significant funds and creating connection beyond work. Community strengthens perspective.5️⃣ Sustainability & AI - Keep It RealCam takes a pragmatic view: reliability is part of sustainability. Extend service life and reduce waste. AI is a tool, but relationships remain central in lubricants. Personal InsightsCam speaks openly about a challenging upbringing, the influence of his grandfather, becoming a father at 21, and navigating loss.He doesn’t dwell on hardship; he focuses on momentum.His philosophy is simple:Negativity compounds.So does progress.Even small forward steps work in your favour.That mindset shapes how he leads, sells, writes and shows up daily. Why Listen?Listen if you:• Entered lubricants by accident and wonder if you belong• Are early in your sales career and feel overwhelmed• Care about culture more than corporate language• Believe people buy from peopleCam’s story proves you don’t need a perfect start to build a strong career.You need clarity. Effort. And the willingness to keep moving. If this episode resonated, particularly the move from price selling to purposeful partnership, you’ll enjoy:👉 Selling Lubricants Smarter - A Lubricant Seller’s Journey from Crisis to SuccessA practical, story-led guide to modern lubricant selling, built around real industry experience.Buy your copy here: https://sellinglubricantssmarter.com/

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Simon Campbell

Mar 400:54:05Tap to summarize

In this episode of Beyond the Blend, Steve sits down with Simon Campbell, Managing Director of Pure Lubrication, to trace a career that, like many in our industry, didn’t begin with a childhood dream of selling lubricants.From hospitality management and retail, to fuel sales at Highland Fuels, through many years at The Lubricant Company, and now leading Pure Lubrication, Simon’s journey is one of growth through learning, culture, and people.Based in Inverness, Simon shares how he evolved from a commodity-based seller “winging it” on price-driven calls across the Highlands, to a leader focused on reliability, partnership, and purposeful growth.This is a conversation about:• Learning the hard way• The power of mentorship• Building culture over corporate process• And why lubrication is a far bigger opportunity than most people realise Key Takeaways1️⃣ You Don’t Have to Start With a PlanSimon didn’t leave school with a lubrication career mapped out. In fact, he “fell into” the industry, like so many do.What stands out is not the lack of direction at the start, but the willingness to:• Take opportunities• Learn quickly• Stay curious• Keep evolvingFrom selling fuel add-ons to leading a reliability-focused business, growth came through experience, not a perfect plan. 2️⃣ From Price Seller to Value PartnerEarly on, sales was simple: compete on price.But exposure to Mobil’s technical approach and strong mentorship at The Lubricant Company shifted Simon’s perspective.He learned:• Relationships outlast transactions• Nurturing existing customers drives real growth• Listening uncovers opportunity• Service creates stickinessThat move from “2p cheaper” to long-term partnership became foundational to his leadership philosophy. 3️⃣ Culture Beats CorporateFollowing acquisition by a global corporate, Simon experienced both worlds: entrepreneurial agility and structured corporate scale.The key learning?Culture matters more than structure.When Pure Lubrication was formed, it wasn’t just about selling oil again, it was about rebuilding:• A team-first environment• Trust-based customer relationships• A business driven by purpose, not just marginSimon describes the culture as natural, evolved, not forced. And that authenticity shows. 4️⃣ Leadership Is Not Knowing It AllSimon is clear: he didn’t step into Managing Director as “the expert.”Instead, he:• Learned from mentors like Andrew Samuel• Invested in formal leadership development• Relied on the expertise of his team• Built around people, not hierarchyHis leadership style is collaborative, grounded, and team-centred, not top-down. 5️⃣ Growth - But the Right WayPure’s ambition is clear: grow significantly.But not at any cost.Simon speaks openly about:• Balancing people, planet, and profit• Creating opportunity for the team• Contributing positively to industry and community• Building something lastingThe growth roadmap isn’t just financial, it’s cultural and purposeful. Connect with Simon🔗 Follow Simon Campbell on LinkedIn🔗 Learn more about Pure Lubrication via their website and LinkedIn presence If this episode resonated, particularly the shift from price selling to partnership and value, then you’ll enjoy:👉 Selling Lubricants Smarter – A Lubricant Seller’s Journey from Crisis to SuccessA practical, story-led guide to modern lubricant selling, built around real industry experience.Buy your copy here:🌐 https://sellinglubricantssmarter.com/

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Collette and Paul Whiting

Feb 1800:52:39Tap to summarize

In this special episode of Beyond the Blend, Rob is joined by two guests for the first time, Collette and Paul, the husband-and-wife leadership team behind Delta Xero.This is a conversation about far more than filtration technology. It’s about building a business together, balancing innovation with structure, and learning how to scale without becoming the bottleneck.Paul brings the entrepreneurial, problem-solving mindset. From algorithms and car supermarkets to inventing capillary filtration technology.Collette brings the operational clarity, building systems, processes, and the foundations that allow the business to grow.Together, they share a candid look at leadership, trust, delegation, and what it really takes to turn a technical innovation into a scalable global business.5 from 5 – Getting to Know Collette & Paul Who brings work into the weekend? Who’s the optimist when things feel stuck? Who presses send on the risky email? Who copes better if the other disappears for a week? One word to describe working togetherA revealing and humorous look at how different personalities can complement each other when there’s a shared goal.What We Talk About The Delta Xero story from garage lab innovation to global filtration solutions Why you don’t need to change oil in many applications and what that means for sustainability and uptime Building a business as a couple; separate roles, shared vision, and clear boundaries Moving from founder-led everything to scalable processes and empowered teams The importance of relinquishing responsibility to avoid becoming a single point of failure CRM, marketing, and sales structure as growth accelerators Hiring for attitude, training for skill, and finding people’s true roles Balancing travel, family life, and leadership in a growing global businessKey TakeawaysInnovation Needs StructurePaul’s technical creativity and problem-solving drive the vision, but Collette’s systems and processes make scaling possible. Growth happens when ideas are translated into repeatable operations.Relinquishing Responsibility Is LeadershipLetting go of tasks you’re average at isn’t failure, it’s how businesses scale. Empowering the right people creates resilience and removes single points of failure.Process Enables FreedomClear roles, documented systems, and CRM discipline allow the business to grow without relying on individuals to hold everything in their heads.Hire for Attitude, Develop for SkillFinding the right mindset matters more than perfect experience. People thrive when placed in roles that match their strengths.Shared Vision, Different StrengthsWorking as a couple succeeds because Collette and Paul move toward the same goal using complementary capabilities, innovation and execution.Organic Growth with Intentional SupportBringing in external expertise (sales processes, mentoring, CRM strategy) accelerates growth without losing the business’s core identity.Why Listen?If you’re a founder, technical leader, or part of a scaling SME, this episode offers real insight into: moving from founder-led to process-driven growth balancing innovation with operational discipline building trust and accountability in a growing team turning technical solutions into scalable commercial successIt’s an honest, practical look at what happens behind the scenes when a business moves from survival to structure.What’s Next for Delta Xero? Expanding into new sectors including wind and landfill gas Scaling global distribution and market reach Strengthening marketing, CRM, and sales processes Continuing technology innovation while building a larger, empowered teamConnect with Collette & PaulYou can follow Collette and Paul on LinkedIn and explore Delta Xero’s growing content and technical insights, including their developing YouTube channel.

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René Abrahams

Feb 400:58:16Tap to summarize

René Abrahams’ journey is anything but ordinary.Born and raised in Durban during apartheid-era South Africa, René entered the workforce at a moment of profound national change. What followed was a career shaped by curiosity, courage, activism, and an unwavering belief in evolution, personally, professionally, and industrially.From being among the first women to work in refinery laboratories, to leading trade-union negotiations for tens of thousands of workers, to shaping sustainable transformer fluids and now innovating synthetic esters at Perstorp, René has consistently chosen to be at the frontier of change rather than a passenger within it.This episode goes far beyond job titles. It’s a deeply human conversation about freedom, identity, sustainability, leadership culture, and what it really means to stay curious over a 25+ year career. Key Takeaways1️⃣ Change was never optional - it was the environmentGrowing up in a segregated South Africa meant René experienced injustice early, even if it felt “normal” as a child. Entering the workforce post-democracy shaped her adaptability, resilience, and willingness to challenge the status quo. 2️⃣ Reading opened the door to possibilityA love of books, so strong she exhausted her local library, planted the seeds for imagination, ambition, and a belief that other futures were possible beyond the environment she grew up in. 3️⃣ Leadership means driving the bus, not sitting on itWhether in trade unions, technical committees, or innovation teams, René consistently steps forward to shape direction rather than wait for permission, a pattern that has defined her leadership style. 4️⃣ From environmental activism to sustainable lubricationRené’s move from environmental consulting into lubricants wasn’t a contradiction, it was an evolution. At Nynas, she became a leading technical voice on bio-based and re-refined transformer oils, helping utilities transition toward lower-carbon solutions. 5️⃣ Give me time - and I’ll master itInitially uninterested in transformer fluids, René later took ownership of a 27-product portfolio, joined IEC technical committees, and represented Sweden internationally. Her lesson: don’t judge complexity too early — immersion changes everything. 6️⃣ Cultural intelligence matters as much as technical skillMoving from South Africa to Sweden meant constantly adjusting to different definitions of “professional.” Over time, René stopped shrinking to fit rooms and started allowing rooms to adjust to her. 7️⃣ From activism to intentional peaceHaving spent years fighting injustice, René now focuses on cultivating cultures of openness, collaboration, and calm. For her, high-performing teams are built on trust, not politics, posturing, or passive aggression. 8️⃣ Sustainability is still a journey, not a switchPerformance and price still dominate buyer decisions, but René sees steady progress. The key, she believes, is clarity: clear sustainability visions, stepwise transitions, and honesty about trade-offs. 9️⃣ Innovation happens at the frontierNow at Perstorp, René is back in deep chemistry, formulating synthetic esters while bringing sustainability, performance, and market relevance together. It’s where she thrives most: building something new from the ground up. 🔟 Stay curious - alwaysRené’s final advice is simple and powerful: life doesn’t narrow with age; we just become more intentional. Curiosity keeps possibility alive, in careers, industries, and life itself. Connect with René• LinkedIn: René Abrahams https://www.linkedin.com/in/ren%C3%A9-abrahams/• Look out for René at industry events including ELGI and other European forumsWhy Listen?This episode is a masterclass in human leadership within a technical industry, if you care about:• Sustainability beyond buzzwords• Building inclusive, high-functioning teams• Navigating identity, culture, and confidence• Leading change without losing yourself

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Jade Thompson

Jan 2100:55:00Tap to summarize

Jade Thompson didn’t plan a career in lubricants, like many in our industry, she arrived by accident and stayed by choice. Originally seeking lab experience to support a Master’s in equine parasitology, Jade found herself drawn into oil analysis, reliability, and ultimately circular lubrication and sustainability. Today, she plays a key role supporting sales and customers globally with RecondOil at SKF, sitting at the intersection of chemistry, reliability, sustainability, and real-world application knowledge. In this episode, Jade shares her journey from lab benches and blending plants to reliability labs, sales support, and global technical roles, alongside a very human story involving horses, cage fighting, family, learning, and confidence. Key Takeaways 1️⃣ Careers in lubricants often start by accident, and that’s a strength Jade’s route into the industry wasn’t planned, but curiosity, analytical thinking, and a love of problem-solving kept her here. She’s another reminder that this sector rewards people who stay curious and adaptable. 2️⃣ Application knowledge beats product knowledge Jade is clear: turning up without understanding the application makes you “no use to the customer.” Real value comes from understanding systems, asking questions, and being honest about what you don’t yet know. 3️⃣ Reliability is deeply personal From blending plants to reliability labs, Jade found real satisfaction in solving problems and seeing assets move from constant failure to sustained uptime. That sense of impact still drives her today. 4️⃣ STEM isn’t just a subject, it’s a way of thinking In her work empowering women in STEM, Jade stresses that STEM skills apply far beyond job titles. She uses analytical thinking everywhere, from lubrication decisions to animal care and everyday life. 5️⃣ Self-learning is non-negotiable Jade highlights the importance of owning your development. Forums, journals, videos, research, and asking questions all matter, especially in an industry where no one can know every application. 6️⃣ Confidence doesn’t always look loud Despite working in male-dominated environments, Jade’s experience has been shaped by strong mentors, supportive leaders, and a practical, no-nonsense approach. She focuses on competence, contribution, and consistency. 7️⃣ Circular lubrication changes the conversation RecondOil appealed to Jade because it brings together sustainability, chemistry, reliability, and commercial impact. It’s not about selling more oil, it’s about looking after it better. 8️⃣ Passion shows up in unexpected ways Whether it’s caring for horses, training in cage fighting, or diving deep into paper and pulp applications, Jade’s discipline and commitment show up everywhere, professionally and personally. Why Listen? If you work in lubricants, reliability, sales, or technical support, this episode is a reminder of what buyers really value: application understanding, honesty, curiosity, and care. It’s also an honest, human story about finding your place in an industry that most people never planned to join — and loving it once you arrive. Connect with Jade LinkedIn: Jade Thompson Follow her work, events, and industry conversations, and don’t be surprised if networking turns into real-world meetups.

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Brenna Huovie

Jan 701:00:28Tap to summarize

How do you build a career that keeps evolving as fast as the industry you’re in?In this powerful episode, we meet Brenna Huovie, a chemical engineer turned global business leader whose 30+ year career spans Exxon, Honeywell UOP and now Lubrizol. From refinery floors to corporate boardrooms, Brenna has reinvented herself multiple times while staying rooted in science, curiosity and a genuine desire to help others grow. She opens up about introversion, self-awareness, diversity advocacy, and navigating a business landscape that’s moving faster, and messier, than ever before. A brilliant conversation with a brilliant leader. Key Takeaways1️⃣ Chemistry meets purposeA high-school chemistry teacher sparked Brenna’s lifelong fascination with solving big, real-world energy problems. 2️⃣ Careers are built through reinventionRefinery operations → catalyst performance → strategy & commercial leadership → additives VP. Every transition expanded her impact. 3️⃣ An introvert’s guide to leading loudlyBrenna trained herself to perform confidently onstage , proving introverts can be exceptional communicators and keynote presenters. 4️⃣ Letting go to help others growDelegation wasn’t natural, but becoming a leader meant moving from doing the work to empowering the people. 5️⃣ Communication is a technical skillThe best technical sellers and innovators are those who ask questions, listen deeply and translate complexity into clarity. 6️⃣ Advocating for women in energyBrenna has long supported women’s networks that help build confidence, capability and belonging in male-dominated sectors. 7️⃣ Leadership in chaosToday’s volatility requires leaders who pause, think critically, and choose the signal over the noise. 8️⃣ Humans + technology = the winAI only works when paired with human skills: creativity, judgment, and narrative. That’s where new value emerges. Why Listen?If you’ve ever questioned your next move, struggled with confidence, or wondered how to lead without losing your true self, this episode delivers reassurance and clarity from someone who’s lived it.A must-listen for:• Future leaders• Women in STEM• Technologists growing commercial influence• Anyone navigating fast-moving change Connect With BrennaLinkedIn profile - https://www.linkedin.com/in/brennahuovie/Lubrizol - https://www.lubrizol.com/solutions/technologies/lubricant-and-fuel-additives

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Tobias Daley

Dec 1000:56:25Tap to summarize

From apprentice in a noisy workshop to leading a global innovation team shaping the future of industrial efficiency, Tobias Daley’s journey is a brilliant reflection of where tradition meets transformation in the lubricants and fluid power world. His story is filled with curiosity, hands-on learning, family values, and a passion for helping industry do things better -sustainably, digitally, and with people at the centre. Key TakeawaysFalling in love with engineering earlyA childhood surrounded by engineers -and a defining visit to a coal-fired power station -sparked a lifelong fascination with how the world really works. Learning the trade -under pressure (and under escalators)Early career van-based adventures fixing real-world breakdowns -from wave energy in Orkney to London Underground escalators -taught him resilience, people skills, and practical expertise you can’t learn in a classroom. Discovering the impact of our industryWhether powering turbines, marine vessels, excavators or data centres -lubricants and hydraulics silently enable the world modern life depends on. Our industry has a much bigger story to tell. Mentors matterGuidance from influential colleagues like Steff’s and Dr. John helped Tobias step into confidence -eventually realising he didn’t need to be an expert in everything if he built the right network. ‘Just be you’ leadershipTobias openly shares his turning point -letting go of trying to be who he thought leaders should be, and instead leading with authenticity, humility and humanity. His team thrives on trust, care, and psychological safety. Coaching the next generation on and off the pitchWhether guiding global engineers or managing his local Under-9s football squad, he brings energy, humour and kindness -and the belief that everyone grows when they feel supported. Innovation with purposeDigital tools only make a difference when people understand and use them. Tobias believes the future belongs to partnerships, open collaboration, and talent development that unlocks real sustainability gains. Why Listen?This conversation is a masterclass in career growth, modern leadership, and the real-life purpose behind industrial engineering. If you work in lubricants, fluid power, sustainability, or innovation -or simply want inspiration to lead more authentically -Tobias delivers big. Connect with TobiasLinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/tobias-daley-4975756b/

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All episodes

Yana Wilkinson

Mike Davidson

Beyond the Blend - Live!

Cameron Clarke

Simon Campbell

Collette and Paul Whiting

René Abrahams

Jade Thompson

Brenna Huovie

Tobias Daley