Strong Source
Strong Source is a podcast that aims to educate and inform listeners about the commodity industry. Hosted by Martijn, a former cacao trader, and Alexander, a former dairy trader and founder of Vesper, the show features experts and guests sharing their unique perspectives. The hosts discuss personal experiences, lessons learned, and future expectations in the industry. The podcast is powered by Vesper, a leading commodity platform.
Episodes
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.
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, t
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 r
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 inflat
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
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.
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 tradersA hig
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
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 s
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
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.
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 e
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 c
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
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 jour
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
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-intens
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 t
Episode 15 with Willem Uijen
With over 25 years at Unilever, Willem Uijen brings a wealth of experience, having worked across the globe in various supply chain roles before transitioning to procurement. As our first Chief Procurement Officer guest on the show, Willem offers unique insights into the challenges and strategies of managing commodities on a global scale, touching on topics like sustainability, supply security, and
Episode 14 with Javier Blas
In this episode, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Javier Blas, a distinguished energy and commodities columnist at Bloomberg and the co-author of the acclaimed book The World for Sale. Javier takes us through his fascinating and unexpected journey into the world of commodity journalism, beginning with his early interest in the Middle East and leading to his extensive coverage of the oil ma
Episode 13 with Marc Perathoner
Join us in this episode of the StrongSource commodity podcast as we welcome Marc Perathoner, Director of Commodity Risk Management at FrieslandCampina. Marc shares his fascinating career journey from Goldman Sachs to the Chicago Board of Trade, where he gained extensive experience in commodity trading and price risk management.
The discussion explores his expertise in financial instruments and m
Episode 12 with Edwin van Stipdonk
This week, we welcome Edwin van Stipdonk, the Chief Commercial Officer of Interfood Group, one of the world's leading dairy trading companies. In this episode, Edwin shares his journey from a junior trader to a key business leader in a family-owned company. He provides an in-depth look at the functioning of the dairy market, exploring its complexities and opportunities.
Episode 11 with Tom Kopczynski
For the first time, commodity market wizard, hedge fund manager and legendary cocoa trader Tom Kopczynski, speaks about his trading career at Blenheim, once the biggest commodities hedge fund in the world.
In this episode, Tom covers the influence of macroeconomic factors on commodity trading, the rise of algorithmic trading, the future of the cocoa industry, and many more...
Episode 10 with Chris Mahoney
We are thrilled to announce that this Strong Source episode features Chris Mahoney, former CEO of Glencore Agriculture.
Chris shares his incredible journey from rowing in the Moscow Olympics to leading Glencore Ag, delving into his strategic insights on commodity trading and the importance of cultivating a strong team.
In this episode, you'll hear about: chris's unique entry into the world of comm
Episode 9 with Willem Zimmerman
We're excited to feature Willem Zimmerman, VP of Global Cocoa Trading and Sourcing at Barry Callebaut Group, on this episode of the Strong Source Podcast.
With extensive experience at Cargill and Barry Callebaut, Willem offers deep insights into the cocoa industry's challenges and guidance for its future.
Episode 8 with Jan Dieleman
In this episode, we are joined by Jan Dieleman, an industry leader and a great example for aspiring commodity traders. Jan is the President of Cargill Ocean Transportation, based in Geneva, and has managed roles in the U.S. and Europe during his more than 20 years with Cargill.
Across the maritime sector, Jan is a respected advocate for sustainable shipping, actively supporting reduced emissions,
Episode 7 with Stephane Bernhard
In this episode, we're thrilled to welcome Stephane Bernhard to the podcast! With an impressive resume spanning over years of experience in commodities trading.
Stephane began his illustrious career as a trader at Louis Dreyfus Company, where he spent 13 years mastering the intricacies of the industry. His leadership journey continued as he ascended to the role of Managing Director for Spain and P
Episode 6 with Ben Tacken
On this episode we sit down with Ben Tacken. Ben kicked off his career at Cargill, where he honed his skills over a decade before venturing into trading various commodities at Vattenfall. For the past 10 years, he has served as the Corporate Director of Purchase and Trading at DE Heus Animal Nutrition, showcasing his expertise in strategic procurement and trading operations. Don't miss out on this
Episode 5 with Boudewijn van Vliet
On this episode we sit down with Boudewijn van Vliet. Boudewijn's has a fascinating journey in the world of commodities, starting from his early days at Cargill in Amsterdam and Geneva. After six years, he made a significant move to Citi, where he became Head of Freight Trading. Today, Boudewijn serves as a board member and non-executive director of two companies in Geneva, while also leading the
Episode 4 with Daan Vriens
In our fourth episode we are joined by Daan Vriens. Daan Vriens, a seasoned professional with a blend of Brabant and Rotterdam roots, embarked on a dynamic career journey that reflects his resilience and adaptability. Beginning at Cargill in Rotterdam, where he delved deep into the refining of tropical oils Daan swiftly rose through the ranks, exploring international opportunities in Singapore and
Episode 3 with David Behrends
In our third episode we are joined by David Behrends. David has an extensive career in the trading world. His career in coffee began at Dreyfus, followed by a significant 12-year tenure at Noble Group (later Coffco). Eight and a half years ago, he made a pivotal move to Geneva, joining Sucafina, where he currently is Managing Partner and Head of Trading. In addition to his extensive career in the
Episode 2 with Ivo Sarjanovic
In our second episode we are joined by Ivo Sarjanovic. Ivo has had a successful career as a trader at Cargill where he ended up as head of the Sugar business unit. He now spends his time advising companies as non-executive board member. Furthermore he is an agricultural commodities professor, author and VC ag tech investor!
We thoroughly enjoyed this conversation and hope you will too.
Referen
Episode 1
In our first episode of the Strong Source podcast, we share our personal stories, from the trading floor to starting the commodity intelligence platform Vesper. But that's not all! Join us as we dive into why the agri commodity world is so interesting. From the thrill of the markets to the impactful role of agriculture, we spill the beans on what makes this industry so special.ReferencesBook: Comm
Strong Source Trailer
Get ready to dive deep into the world of commodities with Strong Source, a podcast featuring two industry veterans who know trading inside and out. In this trailer, we introduce Martijn and Alexander, two former traders with a wealth of experience and a passion for innovation.
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