Strong Source

Our mission with the Strong Source podcast is to educate and inform, by creating a community where experts and guests from the entire commodity industry can share their unique perspectives. Martijn, ex-cacao trader, and Alexander, ex-dairy trader and founder of Vesper, have a deep-passion for this industry, which inspired them to start this venture: "We’ll be sharing our personal experiences, the valuable lessons we’ve learned along the way, and give you a glimpse of what to expect in our future episodes." This podcast is powered by Vesper, the leading commodity platform.

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20 episodes
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S1 · E35
August 4 · 1 hr 1 min
Episode 35 - with Jason McDonald
In this episode of Strong Source, we're joined by Jason McDonald, Director of Procurement & Commodity Risk Management at Sara Lee Frozen Bakery, where he oversees ingredient risk across grains, edible oils, sweeteners, cocoa and eggs. Jason explains what actually drew him into procurement: not the supplier relationships people assume define the job, but the commodity markets driving the costs underneath it. That curiosity is what led him into managing a crisis with no futures market to hedge against, avian flu and the U.S. egg supply. Throughout the conversation, Jason offers a grounded, practitioner's view on managing volatility, from linking supplier contracts to feed costs instead of spot egg prices, to exploring reformulation alternatives, including a pomegranate-based substitute the team tested when the cocoa market spiked.
July 3 · 1 hr 6 min
Episode 34 - with Harold de Boer
In this episode of Strong Source, we're joined by Harold de Boer, mathematician and one of the founders of Transtrend, the Rotterdam-based systematic investment manager that grew out of commodity trading house Nidera in the late 1980s. Raised on a dairy farm, Harold takes us from his first encounter with futures markets, through the feed producers supplying his father's farm, to running one of the most diversified trend-following programs in the industry. Throughout the conversation, Harold goes against the stream with refreshingly different views on trading and markets, from why commodities are not an asset class to why being non-conformistic is a necessity in the Transtrend way of trading.
May 29 · 1 hr 7 min
Episode 33 - with Moritz Heiden and Moritz Seibert
In this episode, we speak with Moritz Seibert and Moritz Heiden, founder of Takahe Capital, about quantitative trading, systematic investment strategies, and how data-driven approaches are used to navigate commodity markets. They share insights on model development, risk management, and the evolving role of quantitative investing in today's markets.
April 16 · 1 hr 7 min
Episode 32 - with Jan Kees van der Wild
In this episode of Strong Source, we're joined by Jan Kees van der Wild, board member at VA Inter Trading and former senior leader at ADM, Bunge, Volcafe and EDF Man, for one of the most remarkable career stories we've had on the show. Jan Kees takes us through 42 years in global commodity trading, from an unconventional start at 19 with no degree and no plan, to running operations across Europe, the US and Brazil. We explore how the right mentors can define a career, what it really takes to turn around a struggling business, and why he always hired on EQ over IQ.
March 25 · 55 min
Episode 31 - with Anthony Britton
In this episode, we welcome Anthony Britain, a commodity risk management expert with experience at Tesco, Unilever, and Swiss retail group Migros. Anthony shares what it was really like managing Unilever's vegetable oils book during the Ukraine invasion and picking up the cocoa portfolio just as prices hit historic highs. We discuss why private label is an interesting space for commodity risk in retail, how retailers are building out sophisticated trading teams, and what it takes to rise in this industry.
January 23 · 1 hr
Episode 30 with Nicholas Bond
In this episode of Strong Source, we’re joined by Nicholas Bond, Buying Director at ALDI South Group, for our first conversation with a retailer guest. Nicholas takes us inside the world of retail buying, from how ALDI manages own-label pricing and supplier relationships, to the practical role of market data and benchmarks in everyday decisions. We explore how external forces like COVID and inflation have reshaped supplier dynamics, how consumer trends such as the surge in high-protein products influence the shelf, and how retailers think about risk when delivering consistent value to the end consumer.
Nov 21, 2025 · 1 hr 15 min
Episode 29 with Alfonso Peccatiello
In this episode, Alfonso Peccatiello, Founder & CIO of Palinuro Capital and creator of The Macro Compass, breaks down how the global dollar system truly works. He explains why commodities priced in USD force countries to recycle dollars into U.S. Treasuries, how government deficits and private-sector leverage create money, and why the U.S. dollar remains dominant despite recurring predictions of its decline. A clear, accessible deep dive into macro forces shaping markets today.
Sep 26, 2025 · 1 hr 16 min
Episode 28 with Gert-Jan van den Akker
In this episode, we sit down with Gert-Jan van den Akker, former EVP of Cargill. We dive into his 30+ year career in commodities, from his first role as a trainee to reshaping global freight trading and leading at the top of Cargill. An honest, inside look at strategy, leadership, and navigating volatile markets.
Jul 18, 2025 · 50 min
Episode 27 with Alex Sanfeliu
In this episode of the Strong Source podcast, we welcome Alex Sanfeliu, President of the World Trading Group at Cargill, where he oversees one of the largest agricultural trading operations in the world. With over 30 years at Cargill, Alex has led global teams through major market shifts, crises, and transformations in how commodities are traded. We discuss: The traits that define great traders A high-stakes moment involving 31 Panamax vessels How Cargill is integrating AI and quant strategies The evolving role of leadership on global trading floors What the next generation of traders needs to succeed Tune in for a masterclass on resilience, decision-making, and how tech is changing the future of commodities.
Jun 27, 2025 · 1 hr 7 min
Episode 26 with Denis Zaica
In this episode, we welcome Denis Zaica, Chief Trading Officer at FincoEnergies and former Commercial Director of Biodiesel at Cargill. Denis shares his remarkable journey from Moldova to leading global commodity trading operations, beginning with cocoa trading at Cargill and now spearheading biofuel strategies at Finco. We discuss his transition from agriculture to energy, the role of trading in the energy transition, and how biofuels are influenced by global market dynamics—including current geopolitical tensions.
May 30, 2025 · 1 hr 6 min
Episode 25 with Martijn Noordhoek
In this episode of the Strong Source podcast, we welcome Martijn Noordhoek, a veteran in the global sugar trade with experience at Cargill, Sucden, Glencore, and now Viterra. Martijn shares how he stumbled into the world of commodities via a freight role and soon found his calling in sugar trading. He reflects on the steep learning curve for young professionals, the nuances between raw and white sugar, the role of ethanol and Brazilian crop cycles, the effects of geopolitics and logistics on trade flows, the rise of Ozempic and its impact on demand, and the cultural contrasts across major trading houses.
May 16, 2025 · 55 min
Episode 24 with Richard Allen
In this episode of The Strong Source, we welcome Richard Allen, President of Fonterra Global Ingredients — the world’s largest dairy exporter — for an open conversation about the future of dairy, volatility in commodity markets, and the complexity of global supply chains. From his 18-year journey across continents with Fonterra to the bold decision to divest the company’s consumer division, Richard shares powerful insights on the evolution of the dairy industry, risk management, and what it takes to lead in uncertain times.
Apr 25, 2025 · 55 min
Episode 23 with Daan Struyven
In this episode we’re joined by Daan Struyven, Co-Head of Commodities Research at Goldman Sachs, for insights on gold, oil, AI-driven power demand, and how shifting geopolitics are shaping the global commodity landscape. Daan breaks down what’s driving markets—and where the signals matter most. *This episode was recorded on March 11, 2025.
Apr 11, 2025 · 1 hr 1 min
Episode 22 with Corinna Olearo
Our guest star in this episode is Corinna Olearo, Head of Commodity Research and Price Risk Management at Nestlé. With over 17 years of experience in the commodity sector, she brings a sharp analytical mind and deep market insight to one of the world’s largest food companies. Starting her career as a sugar analyst, she now oversees a broad range of commodities, from cocoa and coffee to dairy and energy. In this episode, she shares her journey, the challenges of managing price risk at scale, and why curiosity, adaptability, and clear communication are essential in the ever-volatile world of commodities.
Mar 14, 2025 · 53 min
Episode 21 with Kendra Rhodes
In this episode of Strong Source – The Commodity Podcast, we sit down with Kendra Rhodes, Director of Global Risk Management, Market Insights, and Communications at General Mills, to explore how FMCG companies navigate extreme market volatility. Kendra shares insights on balancing procurement strategy with risk management, the shift from complex derivatives to simpler hedging approaches, and the critical role of data and agility in decision-making.
Feb 28, 2025 · 57 min
Episode 20 with Fausto Filice
In this episode of the Strong Source Podcast, we are excited to welcome Fausto Filice, a seasoned veteran in commodity trading with over three decades at Cargill and Bunge. Fausto has witnessed the transformation of global grain markets, from traditional deal-making to today’s data-driven landscape. Throughout this conversation, Fausto shares insights on the evolution of commodity trading, the role of leadership and teamwork, and why fundamentals remain crucial despite technological advances. He also offers a candid look at managing risk, navigating volatility, and sustaining a successful career in trading.
Feb 16, 2025 · 51 min
Episode 19 with Rob Gosman
In this episode of the Strong Source Podcast, we are excited to welcome Rob Gosman, a seasoned commodity trader with over 30 years of experience in energy and oil trading. Having worked at industry giants like Cargill and BP, Rob has navigated some of the most volatile market conditions and played a crucial role in leading successful trading teams. Throughout this conversation, Rob shares his journey from agricultural trading to the energy sector, offering insights into risk management, market dynamics, and the evolution of commodity trading. He also provides a first-hand account of managing trading risk during the 2020 oil crash amid the COVID-19 pandemic and discusses the importance of learning from mistakes, adapting to market changes, and maintaining a trader’s mindset. Whether you’re an aspiring trader, a market enthusiast, or someone looking to understand the complexities of global commodity markets, this episode is packed with valuable lessons and compelling stories from one of the industry’s most experienced professionals.
Jan 31, 2025 · 1 hr 8 min
Episode 18 with Dwight Anderson
In this episode of the Strong Source Podcast, we are excited to welcome Dwight Anderson, founder of Ospraie Management and one of the most respected names in commodity investing. With decades of experience, Dwight has navigated volatile markets, from trading cocoa and metals to managing hedge fund risk during the 2008 financial crisis. Throughout this conversation, Dwight shares his insights on the evolution of commodity trading, the impact of algorithmic strategies and AI, and why fundamentals still matter in today’s market. He also offers a candid look at the weight of leadership, the responsibility of managing capital, and what it takes to build a successful investment firm.
Oct 24, 2024 · 1 hr 10 min
Episode 17 with Ed Turner
In this episode, we welcome Ed Turner, an experienced commodity trader with over a decade in the energy markets. Ed discusses his journey from trading base metals at Mitsubishi UFJ to leading Mandara’s trading desk. Now a Senior Trader at Gunvor and an entrepreneur with Shogun Sakes Ltd., he shares insights on navigating oil trading dynamics, the transition from large firms to smaller, high-intensity environments, and the importance of risk management. Ed also explores the psychological aspects of trading and his shift from market-making to a more strategic, balanced approach.
Oct 4, 2024 · 1 hr 1 min
Episode 16 with Kristine Hochbaum
In this episode of the StrongSource Commodity Podcast, we are thrilled to welcome Kristine Hochbaum, a seasoned commodity trader with an impressive 19-year career at Cargill. Kristine has held several key leadership roles, including her most recent position as Global Trading & Risk Management Director for the oils and fats business. During her time at Cargill, Kristine significantly expanded the trading discipline across global markets, promoted inclusive leadership, and even increased female representation in her trading teams from 22% to 38%. Throughout her career, Kristine has been known for her dynamic leadership, keen risk management strategies, and ability to balance both people management and high-stakes commodity trading.

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