Simply Trade

[TIPS] Difficult Conversations in Action – A Role-Play Using GGCC

Podcast: Simply Trade Tips (Hammer & Heels)Hosts: Renee Chiuchiarelli & Julie ParksPublished: January 6, 2026Episode Length: ~10 minutesSeries: Difficult Conversations (Episode 3 – Role Play)
Episode Summary
In this episode of Simply Trade Tips, Renee Chiuchiarelli and Julie Parks bring their Difficult Conversations series to life with a practical role-play scenario. Wearing their “Pitcher & Catcher” jerseys, they walk listeners through a real-world example of how to ask for a raise using their GGCC framework—a simple, repeatable approach designed to make tough conversations more productive, respectful, and collaborative.
This episode moves beyond theory and shows how preparation, tone, and structure can completely change the outcome of a high-stakes discussion.
Key Learnings
Why difficult conversations improve when both sides understand their role as Pitcher (initiator) and Catcher (receiver)
How the GGCC framework works in real life:
G – Greeting: Set a respectful, appreciative tone
G – Groundwork: Explain the purpose and context
C – Concern: Clearly and directly state the issue
C – Closing: Align on next steps with a statement and a question
How to ask for a raise by focusing on role elevation and business value, not emotion
Why role-playing difficult conversations reduces tension and improves clarity
Practical Takeaways
Write out difficult conversations before having them
Practice with a trusted colleague by switching Pitcher and Catcher roles
Focus on collaboration, not confrontation
Understand your company’s timing and cycles before initiating compensation discussions
Use structure to keep conversations professional and productive
FIO (Figure It Out) – This Week’s Challenge
Identify a difficult conversation you’ve been avoiding.Then:
Write it out using the GGCC framework
Role-play it with someone you trust
Refine the language to ensure clarity, respect, and partnership
Bonus: Bring the scenario into the Trade Geeks Community and share what worked—or where you got stuck.
Resources & Community
Trade Geeks Community: https://globaltrainingcenter.com/portal/
Simply Trade Podcast:
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@simplytradepod?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/09m199JO6fuNumbcrHTkGq?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/simply-trade/id1640329690?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast
Credits
Hosts:
Renee Chiuchiarelli
Julie Parks
Producer:
Lalo Solorzano
🎙️ Simply Trade is a podcast by Global Training Center, bringing practical insights to trade and customs professionals worldwide.
Subscribe & Follow
🎙️ New TIPS episodes every Tuesday.
Presented by: Global Training Center — providing education, consulting, workshops, and compliance resources for trade professionals.
Connect with us:
Simply Trade Podcast on LinkedIn
Global Training Center on LinkedIn
YouTube
Spotify
Apple Podcasts
Trade Geeks Community
Don’t forget to rate, review, and share with your fellow trade geeks!
📩 Want to be on the show or suggest a topic?Email us at SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com or DM us on X/Twitter @SimplyTradePod

[ROUNDUP] TPM 2026: Inside the Premier Global Container Shipping Summit with Peter Tirschwell

 
Host: Annik SobingGuest: Peter Tirschwell, Senior Director, S&P Global / TPM Conference FounderLength: ~25 minutesPresented by: Global Training Center
In this Simply Trade Roundup, host Annik Sobing sits down with global shipping and trade journalism leader Peter Tirschwell, the driving force behind the TPM Conference, to explore how a niche maritime newspaper event evolved into one of the premier gatherings in global container shipping. Peter shares the origin story of TPM: how the Journal of Commerce reinvented itself around 2000 by turning its deep reporting network into a live, editorially independent forum timed to the annual trans‑Pacific contract season.​
They discuss how TPM, held each March in Long Beach in the heart of the LA–Long Beach port complex, became a place where BCOs, carriers, NVOs, ports, and tech providers can gauge supply–demand balance, negotiate with better intelligence, and refresh critical relationships. Peter explains how the attendee mix has shifted over 25+ years, with hundreds of major shippers now present and representation from about 50 countries, turning TPM from a trans‑Pacific event into a broadly global container‑trade platform.​
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
How the Journal of Commerce pivoted from a collapsing print model to launch TPM as a data‑driven, neutral conference for BCOs and carriers.​
Why TPM is held in early March in Long Beach and how that timing aligns with trans‑Pacific contract cycles and port/rail/warehouse visits.​
How TPM’s strictly editorial program (no “pay‑to‑speak”) builds trust, attracts senior executives, and shapes real contract and routing decisions.​
How the attendee base has grown to include ~575 shipper companies and participants from around 50 countries, spanning Asia–Europe, North–South, and more.​
How 2025’s tariff shock—from ~2% to ~17–18% average duties—has pushed shippers to use TPM for cost‑reduction ideas, legal tariff strategies, and sourcing shifts.​
How TPM Tech and AI discussions are tackling repetitive-process automation, carrier cost reduction, and competitive risk if rivals adopt AI faster.​
Practical ways to “do TPM right”: coming in with a plan, choosing sessions strategically, and using the event to build and refresh critical relationships.​
Key Takeaways
TPM now functions as a market pulse + relationship engine: attendees leave with clearer views on capacity, pricing, risk, and who they can rely on when markets tighten.​
Shippers are under intense pressure from tariffs and volatility; events like TPM help them hunt for every legal saving—from transport choices to customs strategies.​
AI is moving “fast and hard” into container shipping; companies that ignore it risk being undercut on cost and losing business to more efficient competitors.​
To get real value from TPM, attendees should arrive with specific problems to solve, a prioritized session list, and pre‑planned meetings across their network.​
Credits
Host/Producer: Annik SobingGuest: Peter Tirschwell – S&P Global / TPM
TPM CONFERENCE DETAILS
Subscribe & Follow
New Roundup episodes every week.Presented by: Global Training Center — education, consulting, workshops, and compliance resources for trade professionals.​👉 www.GlobalTrainingCenter.com
Connect with us:Simply Trade Podcast on LinkedInGlobal Training Center on LinkedInYouTubeSpotifyApple PodcastsTrade Geeks Community
Don’t forget to rate, review, and share with your fellow trade geeks!
Want to Be on the Show or Have Topic Suggestions?📩 Reach us at SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.comor DM us on Twitter/X @SimplyTradePod
 
 

[Cindy's Version] Right Where You Left Me

Host: Cindy AllenPublished: January 2, 2026Length: ~15 minutesPresented by: Global Training Center
Summary
The first Cindy’s Version episode of 2026 kicks off with reflection, perspective, and a clear-eyed look at how fundamentally global trade has changed. Inspired by Taylor Swift’s Right Where You Left Me, Cindy Allen explains why many trade professionals feel stuck between old rules and a completely new enforcement reality.
While the holidays brought a brief pause in activity, the underlying shifts from 2025 are still very much in motion. From tariff threats that didn’t materialize, to delayed Section 232 actions, to long-awaited automation updates from CBP, Cindy walks through what changed—and what didn’t—over the past two weeks. More importantly, she explains why 2025 will be remembered as a pivotal year in trade history, on par with other transformational moments like containerization, air cargo, and automated clearance.
This Week in Trade
• Proposed 92% antidumping duties on Italian pasta were ultimately set far lower, avoiding combined duty rates exceeding 100%• Section 232 cases on upholstered furniture and kitchen cabinets were delayed for one year• Importers planning remodels may benefit from acting within the next year• The trade community continues to wait on Supreme Court decisions related to IEEPA reciprocal and fentanyl cases• Attention now shifts to when the Court returns to session
CBP & Regulatory Updates
• CBP announced all duty refunds will be issued electronically beginning in February• Electronic refunds become mandatory in March• CBP clarified procedures for refunds owed to brokers or third parties using Form 4811• Industry hopes this signals a move toward fully electronic payments, including:• Protests• Post-Summary Corrections• Other remittance processes
COAC Updates
• COAC will meet virtually on January 14• Previous subcommittees and workgroups were dissolved last year• Industry is watching closely for:• A new COAC structure• New workgroups or subcommittees• Applications for new COAC members closed in December• Several current members are rolling off after reaching term limits• Appointments are expected later in the year, not at the January meeting
Why “Right Where You Left Me” Fits This Moment
Cindy explains that while trade professionals earned every bit of their experience in 2025, the rules of engagement have changed. Enforcement is heavier, actions are more industry-specific, and governments are using every tool available—sometimes in new and unexpected ways. Formal announcements are often replaced by rumors, social media posts, or informal signals, forcing the industry to operate in a constant state of readiness.
At the same time, the government expects the trade community to adapt just as aggressively—leveraging automation, data, and new technologies to meet rising compliance expectations. What was once a rigid, compartmentalized system has become layered and complex, operating simultaneously at the country, industry, company, and even product level. The challenge now is not getting stuck in the way trade “used to be,” but learning how to move forward in a system that no longer looks the same.
Key Takeaways
• 2025 marked a fundamental shift in how trade policy is applied and enforced• Tariffs and trade remedies are increasingly industry-, company-, and product-specific• Automation and data will play a critical role in future compliance• Informal signals now often precede formal policy announcements• Trade professionals must evolve—or risk being left behind
RESOURCES & MENTIONS
• Global Training Center• TradeForce Multiplier
Credits
Host:• Cindy Allen – LinkedIn• Trade Force Multiplier
Producer:• Lalo Solorzano – LinkedIn
Subscribe & Follow
New episodes every Friday.
This episode sponsored by Pax
Presented by Global Training Center — providing education, consulting, workshops, and compliance resources for trade professionals.
Connect with us:• Simply Trade Podcast on LinkedIn• Global Training Center on LinkedIn• YouTube• Spotify• Apple Podcasts• Trade Geeks Community
Don’t forget to rate, review, and share with your fellow trade geeks!

Trade by the Numbers: What the Data Really Says About Trade

Hosts: Andy Shiles & Lalo SolorzanoGuest: Ken Roberts, Founder of WorldCityPublished: January 2026Length: ~44 minutesPresented by: Global Training Center
📊 Episode Summary
As we kick off 2026, Andy and Lalo sit down with Ken Roberts, one of the most respected voices in global trade data and the founder of WorldCity, to cut through the noise and look at what the numbers actually say about U.S. trade.
This episode is a masterclass in data-driven trade storytelling. Ken walks listeners through the biggest shifts in global trade flows, explaining how U.S. trade relationships with Mexico, China, Canada, and Vietnam have evolved — and what those changes really mean for businesses making sourcing, routing, and investment decisions today.
The conversation covers everything from why Mexico is now the United States’ top trade partner, to how AI-driven server demand is reshaping imports, why gold exports are surging, and how de minimis and e-commerce shipments are quietly transforming trade volumes. Along the way, Andy and Lalo translate the data into real-world implications for compliance teams, logistics planners, and executive leadership.
If you work in trade, supply chain, or logistics — or if you need to explain trade impacts to senior leadership in plain English — this is an episode you’ll want to share.
🗝️ Key Takeaways
Mexico has become the U.S.’s #1 trade partner — for imports, exports, and total trade.
China’s share of U.S. trade has dropped below 10% for the first time in decades.
AI infrastructure demand is driving massive growth in computer and server imports, especially through air cargo.
Gold exports are surging, driven more by price and economic uncertainty than volume.
De minimis and e-commerce shipments are reshaping both imports and exports.
Trade deficits don’t tell the whole story — they often reflect economic strength and consumer demand.
Rules of origin and enforcement will be a major theme in 2026, especially under USMCA review.
Trade policy moves slowly — even dramatic announcements take years to show up in the data.
📦 Topics Covered in This Episode
U.S. trade trends heading into 2026
Why Mexico overtook China and Canada
Port and airport shifts (Chicago, JFK, Laredo, LA)
AI, servers, and Taiwan’s rise in trade rankings
Gold, energy exports, and economic uncertainty
De minimis, e-commerce, and low-value shipments
China trade diversion vs. true decoupling
What trade data means for routing, sourcing, and strategy
📚 Resources & Mentions
Ken Roberts (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenrobertsworldcitytradenumber/
WorldCity / U.S. Trade Numbers: https://ustradenumbers.com/
Ken Roberts on Forbes: https://www.forbes.com/sites/kenroberts/
U.S. Customs & Border Protection Trade Data: https://www.cbp.gov/trade
U.S. Census Bureau – Trade Statistics: https://www.census.gov/foreign-trade
 
This episode sponsored by Pax
 
📢 Subscribe & Follow
Stay connected with the Simply Trade community and never miss an episode:
LinkedIn – Global Training Center:https://www.linkedin.com/company/global-training-center?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast
LinkedIn – Simply Trade Podcast:https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/simply-trade-podcast/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast
YouTube – Simply Trade Podcast:https://www.youtube.com/@SimplyTradePod?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast
Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/09m199JO6fuNumbcrHTkGq?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast
Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/simply-trade/id1640329690?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast
Trade Geeks Community:https://globaltrainingcenter.com/portal/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast

[ROUNDUP] Covering Our Favorite Simply Trade Moments of 2025

Hosts: Annik Sobing, Cindy Allen, Renee Chiuchiarelli, Julie Parks, Warrington Ellacott, Andy Shiles, Lalo SolorzanoPublished: December (Year-End Special)Length: ~40 minutesPresented by: Global Training Center
In this historic Simply Trade year-end roundtable, all seven hosts gather for the first time to reflect on 2025's chaotic trade landscape. From "frantic" and "exhausting" to "unprecedented" and "unbelievable," the group shares one-word summaries of the year before diving into favorite moments, biggest lessons, and personal connections that defined their podcast journeys.​
Highlights include Annik's motivational interviews with trailblazers like Amy Morgan and Frank Desiderio, Cindy's embrace of her "Taylor Swift of Trade" persona sparked by Annik, Renee and Julie's "Hammer & Heels" reconnection and FIO ("Figure It Out") philosophy, Warrington's standout pods on cross-border realities, Andy's pride in the show's growth amid rapid policy shifts, and Lalo's impactful SMB stories like Detroit Axle's tariff struggles. The conversation captures raw emotions—from grief stages to mental health concerns—while celebrating trade's new C-suite spotlight and the power of community, collaboration, and "news you can use."​
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
Each host's one-word summary of 2025 trade: opportunity, frantic, exhausting, chaos, unbelievable, unpredictable, upside-down.​
Personal favorite moments, from inspirational journeys (taxis to trade) to real-world SMB tariff pain and unexpected connections.​
How podcasts fostered reconnection, motivation, and practical tips amid chaos (e.g., "FIO," boardroom translation, trade strategist skills).​
The human side: grief stages, mental health strains, and why trade pros stepped up like never before.​
2026 previews: dual playbooks, SMB advocacy, USMCA uncertainty, and upcoming webinars like Hammer & Heels' free FIO coaching hour.​
Key Takeaways
2025 elevated trade compliance from "bowels of the organization" to boardroom essential—now translate complexity into executive action.​
Connection is king: podcasts sparked mentorships, reconnections, and motivation across experience levels.​
SMB voices matter: real stories like Detroit Axle's highlight policy's human cost; amplify via associations and groups.​
Amid chaos, focus on basics: FIO (Figure It Out), bite-sized learning, and community support for mental health and strategy.​
Credits
Hosts:
Annik Sobing – Roundup Host
Cindy Allen – Cindy's Version (Taylor Swift of Trade)
Renee Chiuchiarelli & Julie Parks – Hammer & Heels Tips
Warrington Ellacott – Canadian Pod
Andy Shiles & Lalo Solorzano – Founders
Subscribe & Follow
New episodes weekly in 2026!Presented by: Global Training Center — education, consulting, workshops, and compliance resources for trade pros.👉 www.GlobalTrainingCenter.com
Connect with us:Simply Trade Podcast on LinkedInGlobal Training Center on LinkedInYouTubeSpotifyApple PodcastsTrade Geeks Community
Don’t forget to rate, review, and share with your fellow trade geeks!
Want to Be on the Show or Have Topic Suggestions?📩 Reach us at SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.comor DM us on Twitter/X @SimplyTradePod

[ROUNDUP] BRICS Rising: The New Global Trade Superpower in 2026?

Host: Annik SobingGuest: Maria Pechurina, Director of International Trade at Peacock Tariff ConsultingPublished: December 22Length: ~30 minutesPresented by: Global Training Center
In this Simply Trade Roundup, host Annik Sobing is joined by international trade and economic diplomacy expert Maria Pechurina for a deep dive into BRICS and what it means for global trade in 2026. Maria, who has a strong background in Chinese studies and international relations, explains how BRICS has expanded from its original five members to a much broader “BRICS Plus” bloc that now includes countries like Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, representing roughly 40% of global GDP, over 40% of the world’s population, about a quarter of global merchandise exports, and potentially half of the world’s oil production.​
Together, they explore how aggressive U.S. tariff policy in 2025 has accelerated a shift toward deeper BRICS cooperation and a more bipolar trading system. Maria illustrates this with examples such as U.S. tariffs on India that pushed New Delhi closer to Beijing and other BRICS partners, and she unpacks the growing trend toward non‑dollar settlement channels and local‑currency trade within the bloc. The conversation then turns to what all of this means for U.S.‑based trade and customs professionals, including the need to think in terms of “two playbooks” (U.S./EU vs. BRICS‑linked trade), prepare for more politically driven tariffs, and build scenarios and risk matrices that reflect a permanently more volatile environment.​
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
What BRICS and “BRICS Plus” are, who is involved, and why the bloc now represents a major share of global GDP, population, exports, and oil production.​
How U.S. tariffs and sanctions pressures in 2025 pushed countries toward deeper intra‑BRICS cooperation and regional trade (e.g., India–China, China–Brazil).​
Why 2025 effectively “broke” the old multilateral trade model and how 2026 is likely to cement a more bipolar system (U.S./EU vs. BRICS‑centric tracks).​
The rise of non‑dollar settlement and alternative payment systems, including local‑currency trade between Russia, China, India, and Brazil, and what that implies for dollar demand.​
How tariffs are increasingly used as political leverage, including “secondary” or punitive tariffs tied to countries’ domestic or foreign policy choices.​
What a dual‑track supply chain strategy looks like in practice for U.S. importers and compliance teams.
Key Takeaways
BRICS is no longer a fringe coalition; it is a central, growing pillar of global trade and energy, with China as a major center of gravity.​
U.S. and EU trade professionals must be ready to manage two distinct regulatory environments at once, with different expectations on origin, currency, sanctions, and documentation.​
Politically driven, rapidly announced tariffs will remain a major planning risk, making scenario modeling and proactive supplier strategies essential.​
Smaller and mid‑sized companies can amplify their influence by working through trade and industry groups to communicate real‑world impacts to policymakers.​
CreditsHost: Annik SobingGuest: Maria Pechurina – Peacock Tariff ConsultingProducer: Lalo Solorzano
Subscribe & FollowNew Roundup episodes every week.Presented by: Global Training Center — providing education, consulting, workshops, and compliance resources for trade professionals.​👉 www.GlobalTrainingCenter.com
Connect with us:Simply Trade Podcast on LinkedInGlobal Training Center on LinkedInYouTubeSpotifyApple PodcastsTrade Geeks Community
Don’t forget to rate, review, and share with your fellow trade geeks!
Want to Be on the Show or Have Topic Suggestions?📩 Reach us at SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.comor DM us on Twitter/X @SimplyTradePod

[Cindy's Version] The Manuscript of Trade in 2025

Host: Cindy AllenPublished: December 19Length: ~15 minutesPresented by: Global Training Center
In this year-end “Cindy’s Version” of Simply Trade, Cindy Allen, CEO of TradeForce Multiplier, uses Taylor Swift’s “The Manuscript” to frame a look back at 2025’s trade story. She recaps the latest developments—from the Court of International Trade’s surprise ruling on the Costco injunction and IEPA liquidation concerns to a new Switzerland–Liechtenstein trade deal and CBP’s long‑awaited “stacking” spreadsheet. Cindy also highlights the U.S. government’s announcement that it collected 200 billion dollars in new tariffs this year, and what that really means for importers’ bottom lines.
Using “The Manuscript” as a metaphor, Cindy walks through the big chapters of this year in trade: unprecedented use of authorities like IEPA and 232, the temporary shock of 145% China tariffs, the demise of de minimis, a jump in effective average duty rates, and a surge in complexity around stacking, derivative tariffs, and country‑of‑melt reporting. She also touches on ACE edit‑check gaps, compressed implementation timelines, expanded ACAS data requirements, and pilots like the Global Business Identifier that signal a move toward progressive filing and deeper supply chain visibility. Cindy closes by reflecting on the vital role of trade associations, community, and collaboration—and shares her hope that next year’s “manuscript” reads more like a romantic comedy than an action thriller.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
What the CIT’s ruling in the Costco/IEPA case really means for injunctions and refunds
Key updates: Switzerland–Liechtenstein trade deal, CBP stacking spreadsheet, and tariff collections
How IEPA and 232 were used in new, expansive ways—including derivative and fentanyl‑related tariffs
The “demise of de minimis” and its impact on trade flows and compliance workloads
Why average effective duty rates have jumped from ~2–3% to around 17%
How trade “deals” differ from formal FTAs and why they complicate stacking rules
New data, timing, and ACE challenges: melt/cast reporting, missing edit checks, and 1‑day rollouts
The growing role of pilots like GBI and progressive filing in reshaping future entry processes
Why uncertainty itself—legal, financial, and operational—has become a major cost driver
Key Takeaways
2025’s trade “manuscript” is defined by unprecedented authority use, higher duty rates, and much more complexity.
Rapid‑fire changes, thin guidance, and limited ACE edit checks have shifted more risk and responsibility onto importers, brokers, and software providers.
Community, collaboration, and strong industry groups (ICPA, NCBFAA, AAEI, COAC) are essential to interpreting and managing ongoing change.
As the trade community turns the page to a new year, the goal is a calmer, more predictable “script”—with fewer action scenes and more stability.
CreditsHost: Cindy Allen, TradeForce Multiplier
Subscribe & FollowNew “Cindy’s Version” trade roundups periodically.Presented by: Global Training Center — providing education, consulting, workshops, and compliance resources for trade professionals.👉 www.GlobalTrainingCenter.com
Connect with us:Simply Trade Podcast on LinkedInGlobal Training Center on LinkedInYouTubeSpotifyApple PodcastsTrade Geeks Community
Don’t forget to rate, review, and share with your fellow trade geeks!
Want to Be on the Show or Have Topic Suggestions?📩 Reach us at SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.comor DM us on Twitter/X @SimplyTradePod

Transfer Pricing, Customs Valuation & Tariffs: Bridging the Gap with Alex Martin

Episode: Simply Trade #413Hosts: Andy Shiles & Lalo SolorzanoGuest(s):
Alex Martin, Transfer Pricing Specialist, KBKGPublished: December 18, 2025Length: ~37 minutesPresented by: Global Training Center
Episode Summary
Tariffs have changed everything — and many companies are still missing the second-order effects.
In this episode, Andy and Lalo sit down with Alex Martin of KBKG to unpack one of the most misunderstood (and increasingly risky) intersections in global trade: transfer pricing and customs valuation.
As tariffs rise from single digits to 25%, 50%, and beyond, decisions once made solely by tax or finance teams now carry massive customs consequences. Alex explains how multinational companies are getting “whipsawed” between Customs and the IRS — one pushing values up for duty, the other pushing values down for income tax.
This conversation makes one thing crystal clear: customs, tax, finance, and compliance can no longer operate in silos.
Whether you’re an importer, trade compliance professional, CFO, or tax leader, this episode highlights why cross-functional coordination is now essential — not optional.
Key Takeaways
Transfer pricing impacts both customs duties and income tax — often in conflicting ways
Rising tariffs have turned valuation into a material financial risk, not an academic exercise
Customs looks at transactions line-by-line, while tax authorities focus on annual results
CFOs and tax directors must now actively engage with trade compliance teams
Poor coordination can increase audit risk, cash-flow pressure, and margin erosion
Programs like FTZs, bonded warehouses, drawback, and cost bifurcation can help mitigate exposure
Asking for transfer pricing documentation is a powerful first step for trade teams
Who Needs to Be at the Table?
This episode stresses the importance of assembling a multi-disciplinary team, including:
Trade Compliance
Tax & Transfer Pricing
Finance / CFO leadership
Accounting (AP / AR)
Pricing & Sourcing
International affiliates and parent companies
If tariffs have changed your margins, they’ve already changed your tax picture — whether you’ve addressed it or not.
 
🔍 Transfer Pricing Insights from Alex Martin (KBKG)
Strategic transfer pricing adjustments can reduce customs duties by lowering inventory values and separating non-dutiable management fees
Many companies overlook the income tax benefits of transfer pricing, especially when foreign entities are profitable while U.S. operations show losses
Transfer pricing changes can significantly lower a company’s global effective tax rate when aligned correctly
KBKG regularly hosts transfer pricing education sessions to help trade professionals understand intercompany pricing from a tax perspective
KBKG also supports companies with R&D tax credits, cost segregation, and green energy incentives, alongside transfer pricing services
Learn more:
Article: Higher Tariffs Are on the Wayhttps://www.kbkg.com/feature/higher-tariffs-are-on-the-way
Free Webinar (CPA Academy): Transfer Pricing & Tariff Savings Strategieshttps://www.cpaacademy.org/s/webinar/a0DQh00000ZyzPXMAZ/transfer-pricing-and-tariff-savings-strategies
Article: Higher Tariffs Are on the Wayhttps://www.kbkg.com/feature/higher-tariffs-are-on-the-way
Free Webinar (CPA Academy): Transfer Pricing & Tariff Savings Strategieshttps://www.cpaacademy.org/s/webinar/a0DQh00000ZyzPXMAZ/transfer-pricing-and-tariff-savings-strategies
 
📚 Resources & Mentions
KBKG – Transfer Pricing & Tax Advisoryhttps://www.kbkg.com/
Alex Martin – LinkedIn
Alex Marting YouTube videos
U.S. Customs Valuation Methods (WTO / CBP)https://www.cbp.gov/trade/valuation
IRS Transfer Pricing Overview (Section 482)https://www.irs.gov/businesses/international-businesses/transfer-pricing
Global Training Center – Customs Valuation E-Learning Coursehttps://www.globaltrainingcenter.com/
Foreign Trade Zones (U.S. FTZ Board)https://www.trade.gov/foreign-trade-zones
📢 Subscribe & Follow
Stay connected with the Simply Trade community:
LinkedIn – Global Training Centerhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/global-training-center?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast
YouTube – Simply Trade Podcasthttps://www.youtube.com/@SimplyTradePod?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast
Spotify – Simply Tradehttps://open.spotify.com/show/09m199JO6fuNumbcrHTkGq?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast
Apple Podcasts – Simply Tradehttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/simply-trade/id1640329690?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast
Trade Geeks Communityhttps://globaltrainingcenter.com/portal/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast
 

[NCBFAA] Counsel Update: What Trade Professionals Must Prepare for in 2026

Episode:
NCBFAA Counsel Update: What Trade Professionals Must Prepare for in 2026(Final Episode in the NCBFAA 4-Part Special Series)
Guest Host & Moderator:
Laurie ArnoldSecretary, National Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association of America (NCBFAA)
Panelists:
Nicole Bivens-Collinson — Legislative Advisor, NCBFAA
Cindy Thomas — Counsel, Partner Government Agencies
Ashley Craig — Transportation Counsel
Lenny Feldman — Customs & Trade Counsel
Published:
December 17, 2026
Length:
~50 min.
Presented by:
Global Training Center
Episode Summary
This episode concludes Simply Trade’s four-part special collaboration with the National Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association of America (NCBFAA), with NCBFAA hosting its own in-depth legal roundtable focused on what trade professionals must prepare for in 2026.
Moderated by Laurie Arnold, Secretary of NCBFAA, this candid discussion brings together the association’s legal counsel to unpack legislative priorities, regulatory uncertainty, enforcement trends, and agency staffing challenges impacting customs brokers, freight forwarders, and the broader trade community.
From tariff volatility and BIS rulemaking to FMC enforcement, PGA staffing shortages, and heightened CBP scrutiny, this final episode provides practical guidance and forward-looking insight for navigating an increasingly complex compliance environment.
Key Learnings & Themes
1. Legislative Outlook for 2026
Nicole Bivens-Collinson highlights legislative activity to monitor closely, including:
Potential restrictions on non-resident importers acting as importers of record
The proposed ADAPT Act, designed to curb last-minute tariff changes by requiring advance notice and implementation timelines
NCBFAA continues advocating for policy that is predictable, transparent, and operationally realistic for the trade community.
2. PGA Engagement Amid Staffing Losses
Cindy Thomas explains how Partner Government Agencies are experiencing:
Accelerated retirements and buyouts
Loss of institutional knowledge
Inconsistent enforcement and communication
Despite these challenges, agencies increasingly rely on NCBFAA to help communicate policy changes clearly and consistently to the trade community.
3. BIS 50% Rule: Paused, Not Eliminated
Ashley Craig discusses the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) 50% rule, currently suspended for one year:
The rule is expected to return in some form
Congressional intervention remains possible
Due diligence expectations on intermediaries continue to grow
The panel stresses that this pause should be used to prepare — not delay.
4. FMC Enforcement & Transportation Risk
Ashley also outlines increasing enforcement activity by the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC), including:
Heightened scrutiny of tariffs and service contracts
Significant recent penalties
Ongoing regulatory uncertainty driven by staffing changes
Transportation compliance remains a key risk area heading into 2026.
5. Tariffs, CBP Enforcement & Revenue Collection
Lenny Feldman provides insight into:
Aggressive CBP enforcement tied to tariff programs
Significant increases in duty collections through entry summary reviews
Elevated penalty exposure without mitigation strategies
He emphasizes proactive compliance, internal reviews, and preparation before CBP initiates enforcement actions.
6. Practical Steps Trade Professionals Must Take Now
Panelists recommend:
Ensuring importers maintain active ACE Portal access
Monitoring liquidation timelines and protest deadlines
Reviewing valuation, classification, and origin methodologies
Updating broker terms & conditions and powers of attorney
Conducting internal compliance reviews proactively
Preparation is no longer optional — it is essential.
Key Takeaways
Enforcement is increasing across CBP, BIS, FMC, and PGAs
Legislative and regulatory volatility is the new normal
NCBFAA advocacy plays a critical role in shaping workable policy
Brokers and forwarders are more essential than ever as compliance partners
Proactive strategy consistently outperforms reactive defense
Resources Mentioned
Organizations & Agencies
National Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association of America (NCBFAA)
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS)
Federal Maritime Commission (FMC)
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)
Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC)
Trade & Compliance Topics
ACE Portal (Automated Commercial Environment)
Section 232, 301, and 201 Tariffs
BIS 50% Rule
BIS Affiliate Rule
ADAPT Act (Proposed)
Ocean Shipping Reform Act of 2022
Credits
Guest Host & Moderator:Laurie Arnold — Secretary, NCBFAA
Panelists:
Nicole Bivens-Collinson — Legislative Advisor, NCBFAA
Cindy Thomas — Counsel, Partner Government Agencies
Ashley Craig — Transportation Counsel
Lenny Feldman — Customs & Trade Counsel
Presented by:Global Training CenterGlobal Training Center on LinkedIn
Subscribe & Follow Simply Trade
YouTube
Spotify
Apple Podcasts
Trade Geeks Community

[TIPS] Difficult Conversations — When You’re the Catcher

Hosts: Renee Chiuchiarelli & Julie ParksSeries: Difficult Conversations (Episode 3)Format: Trade Tip Tuesday | Hammer & HeelsLength: ~8 minutesPresented by: Global Training Center
🔍 Episode Summary
In this Trade Tip Tuesday episode of Simply Trade Tips, Renee Chiuchiarelli and Julie Parks continue their Difficult Conversations series by shifting perspectives — from the pitcher to the catcher.
Not every tough conversation is initiated by you. Sometimes, you’re on the receiving end — caught off guard, underprepared, or unsure how to respond in the moment. This episode provides a practical framework to help trade professionals listen, respond, and lead with clarity when they’re the ones being approached.
Using the same GGCC acronym introduced in the previous episode, Renee and Julie walk through how to apply it when you’re the listener, ensuring difficult discussions remain productive, respectful, and solutions-focused.
🧠 Key Learnings
When you’re the catcher in a difficult conversation, use the GGCC framework:
G — GratitudeAcknowledge the conversation and thank the other person for bringing the issue forward.
G — GravityRecognize the seriousness of the issue and validate the weight of the concern being shared.
C — Clarify & CommitListen fully, reflect back what you heard, and commit to working toward a resolution — even if the answer isn’t immediate.
C — Closing (Consider, Comply, or Reject)Be honest and transparent about next steps. You may need time to consider, you may comply immediately, or — in rare cases — reject the request after thoughtful evaluation.
📌 Why This Matters in Trade
In trade compliance, logistics, customs, and global operations, difficult conversations are unavoidable — from resource constraints and compliance gaps to performance concerns and project pressures.
How you receive these conversations is just as important as how you initiate them. This framework helps:
Reduce defensiveness
Build trust and credibility
Create space for thoughtful, compliant decision-making
Strengthen leadership communication skills
🧩 FIO (Figure It Out) — This Week’s Action Item
Take a moment to pause and take inventory.
Ask yourself:
What difficult conversations might be coming my way?
What issues may be bubbling up in my team or organization?
Where could someone need clarity, support, or a decision from me?
Being mentally prepared — even without knowing specifics — allows you to respond with intention instead of reaction.
Once you’ve done your FIO, head into the Trade Geeks Community and let us know how it went.
👉 Trade Geeks Community
🔗 Keep the Conversation Going
This episode builds directly on the previous discussion about being the pitcher. Be sure to listen to both — and don’t miss the upcoming role-play episode where Renee and Julie bring both perspectives together.
🎧 Credits
Hosts:
Renee Chiuchiarelli
Julie Parks
Producer:
Lalo Solorzano
📣 Subscribe & Follow
🗓️ New Simply Trade Tips episodes every Tuesday
LinkedIn – Simply Trade Podcast
YouTube
Spotify
Apple Podcasts
Presented by:Global Training Center — providing education, consulting, workshops, and compliance resources for trade professionals.👉 https://www.globaltrainingcenter.com/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast
💬 Want to Be on the Show or Have Topic Ideas?
📧 SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com🐦 DM us on X/Twitter: @SimplyTradePod
Don’t forget to rate, review, and share with your fellow trade geeks!