Simply Trade
Do you find yourself randomly classifying products… when you are not at work? Does the reason why you jump out of bed every morning have anything to do with validating your supply chain to insure trade compliance? Did you sit in your favorite chair with a glass of wine, paging through the latest regulations and thought to yourself, ‘what a great way to spend my free time’? If any of these apply to you, then you are very likely a ‘trade geek’… that is why we created Simply Trade just for you. Your hosts, Andy and Lalo have a combined 60+ years in the industry. Covering everything from logistics to technology. There is so much to learn with the ever-evolving world of trade. We’ve invited some friends over to our podcast to simply ’shoot the ship’ on all things trade. So join us every week as we discuss current and important trade topics with experts in their field who are passionate about helping you succeed! You’ll never run out of things to learn when it comes to trading goods across international borders. Let’s get to it!
Episodes
![[TIPS] — Building a Business Case: Turning Ideas into Action](https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/image-logo/14879952/ST_Andy-Annik-Lalo_1x1_EP-Coverart_v2_300x300.png)
Tuesday Nov 04, 2025
[TIPS] — Building a Business Case: Turning Ideas into Action
Tuesday Nov 04, 2025
Tuesday Nov 04, 2025
Hosts:Renee Chiuchiarelli & Julie ParksPublished: November 4, 2025Length: ~10 minutesPresented by: Global Training Center
💡 Episode Summary
In this episode of Simply Trade [Tips], Hammer & Heels (Renee & Julie) continue their Project Management Series with a deep dive into one of the most crucial steps in any successful initiative — building the business case.
Whether your project is a small process improvement or a large-scale system redesign, having a clear and well-thought-out business case can make all the difference when it comes to securing buy-in and budget approval.
Renee and Julie break it down into four essential components:1️⃣ Executive Summary (BLUF — Bottom Line Up Front) – Define the project, its risks, goals, and mitigation strategies.2️⃣ Problem Statement & Proposed Solution – Clearly identify what problem you’re solving and how your solution addresses it.3️⃣ Cost & Benefit Analysis – Outline not just hard savings but also avoidance costs like penalties, inefficiencies, or rework avoided through compliance.4️⃣ High-Level Project Plan – Create a realistic timeline, resource needs, and communication strategy that anticipate setbacks.
From small departmental SOPs to enterprise-wide initiatives, this episode gives trade professionals the tools to articulate value and drive results.
🧠 Key Takeaways
Start with the BLUF — the bottom line your leaders need to see first.
Clearly define your problem statement before proposing a solution.
Don’t ignore avoidance costs — they’re real savings too.
Partner with Finance to quantify time, resources, and risk mitigation in monetary terms.
Be realistic with your timeline and dependencies — under-promise, over-deliver.
Communicate early and often with stakeholders to build support and flexibility.
🧭 FIO (Figure It Out)
👉 Action Item: Take the project you identified in Episode 1 and begin drafting your business case.
Start with a rough outline (“back of the envelope” style).
Identify your problem, proposed solution, and 2–3 measurable benefits.
Test it with peers or stakeholders and refine before formal submission.
Then, share your progress in the Trade Geeks Community!
💬 Keep the Conversation Going
Join the Trade Geeks Community at Global Training Center and share:
What project are you building your business case for?
What challenges are you facing in defining your costs and benefits?
Have you tried pitching your project to leadership yet?
🎧 Credits
Hosts:
Renee Chiuchiarelli
Julie Parks
Producer:
Lalo Solorzano
📲 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] Pharma Trade Compliance Pressures with Elizabeth Lomax](https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/ep-logo/pbblog14879952/Annik_News_Logo7liz1_300x300.jpg)
Monday Nov 03, 2025
[ROUNDUP] Pharma Trade Compliance Pressures with Elizabeth Lomax
Monday Nov 03, 2025
Monday Nov 03, 2025
Host: Annik SobingGuest: Elizabeth Lomax, Trade Compliance Consultant (Pharma Specialist)Published: October 23Length: ~25 minutesPresented by: Global Training Center
In this Simply Trade News Roundup, host Annik sits down with leading trade compliance consultant Elizabeth Lomax to tackle the timely and turbulent world of the pharmaceutical supply chain. With shifting trade rules, tariff threats, and regulatory uncertainty dominating industry headlines, Elizabeth shares real-world insight into how manufacturers—especially smaller innovators—are navigating anxiety, adapting compliance processes, and preparing for possible disruption. The conversation breaks down executive orders, HTS code strategy, the impact of de minimis changes, and the crucial role of documentation.
Together, they address how ongoing tariff debates, differential exemption policies, and rapid-fire policy shifts are shaping both immediate risk and long-term strategy for pharmaceutical companies of all sizes.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
The state of pharma tariffs, exemptions, and compliance in 2025
“Big Pharma” vs. smaller innovators—who the rules favor, and why
How executive orders and truth social posts differ from enforceable policy
HTS code strategies, annex exemptions, and documentation best practices
How tariffs and cash flow risks hit small businesses hardest
What de minimis no longer means for the industry in practice
The impact (and irony) of U.S. policy on drug pricing, shortages, and innovation
Why ACE reports and robust recordkeeping are make-or-break for compliance
How to model tariff scenarios and strengthen your playbook—no matter what comes next
Key Takeaways
“Tariff anxiety” is real—prepare processes, but don’t panic over shifting headlines
Accurate classification, valuation, and country of origin are your best defense
Small pharma faces unique hurdles when policy focuses on negotiation and volume
Stay plugged in to new developments and keep your compliance documentation airtight
Trade teams may need added resources or automation to keep pace with a volatile landscape
ACE reporting, scenario modeling, and strategic partnerships can help mitigate future shocks
Resources
FDA Policy Updates
ACE Reporting Guides
Global Training Center’s Three Pillars Course
Credits
Host: Annik SobingGuest: Elizabeth LomaxProducer: Lalo Solorzano
Subscribe & Follow
New 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] All Aboard the Crazy Train of Trade](https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/image-logo/14879952/ST_Andy-Annik-Lalo_1x1_EP-Coverart_v2_300x300.png)
Friday Oct 31, 2025
[Cindy’s Version] All Aboard the Crazy Train of Trade
Friday Oct 31, 2025
Friday Oct 31, 2025
Host: Lalo Solorzano (filling in for Cindy Allen)Published: October 31, 2025Length: ~15 minutesPresented by: Global Training Center
Crazy Train (Lalo’s Version): Trade Updates, Ozzy Osbourne Style
This week’s Cindy’s Version comes with a twist — Cindy is on vacation in Cancun, so Lalo Solorzano takes over the mic and drives this week’s episode down a different track: Crazy Train by Ozzy Osbourne.
In true Gen X fashion, Lalo blends heavy metal attitude with the week’s biggest trade updates, covering everything from Senate tariff votes and CBP’s new Section 232 duties to fresh U.S.–China developments and new trade frameworks across Southeast Asia.
From tariff fatigue and AI adoption to collaboration and mentorship, this Halloween-themed episode keeps the humor high and the insights real — proving that even in global trade, we’re all riding the same crazy train.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Senate blocks two key trade measures:• Additional tariffs on Brazil• Reciprocal global tariff proposal
Why lawmakers warned that reciprocal tariffs risked igniting a global trade war
CBP guidance on new Section 232 duties for:• Trucks, buses, and parts (effective November 1)• Chapter 99 HTS classifications for importers
Trump–Xi meeting updates: possible 10% tariff rollback on Chinese goods and renewed soybean imports
New reciprocal trade frameworks with Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Malaysia
Highlights from the ICPA Fall Conference panel “Duty Calls” — hosted by Global Training Center and Simply Trade
Key Takeaways from the ICPA Panel – Duty Calls:
Tariff Fatigue & Strategy: Don’t just react to constant changes — build adaptable systems.
Automation & AI: Smart use of AI for classification and drawback can improve compliance efficiency.
Collaboration: Compliance can’t live in a silo — involve procurement, finance, logistics, and engineering.
Mentorship & Talent: You can’t complain about the lack of talent if you’re not helping grow it.
Mindset: Trade doesn’t run on policy alone — it’s driven by people with passion and purpose.
Quick Recap:
Congress blocks new tariffs.
CBP rolls out new ones.
U.S. and China hint at a handshake deal.
Southeast Asia signs new reciprocal agreements.
And trade experts remind us: stay calm, stay informed, and keep your systems ready.
Or as Ozzy says — “It’s crazy, but that’s how it goes.”
Resources & Mentions:
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
Federal Register – Section 232 Notices
ICPA – International Compliance Professionals Association
U.S. Department of Commerce – Trade Updates
Credits
Host:
Lalo Solorzano – LinkedIn
Producer:
Global Training Center
Special thanks to:
Cindy Allen – LinkedIn
Trade Force Multiplier
Subscribe & Follow
New episodes every Friday.
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!
![[CRIMES] Export Horror Stories – When Compliance Gets Scary](https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/image-logo/14879952/ST_Andy-Annik-Lalo_1x1_EP-Coverart_v2_300x300.png)
Thursday Oct 30, 2025
[CRIMES] Export Horror Stories – When Compliance Gets Scary
Thursday Oct 30, 2025
Thursday Oct 30, 2025
Hosts: Lalo Solorzano & Andy ShalesGuest: Josh Rodman, Attorney at Schulz Trade LawPublished: October 29, 2025Presented by: Global Training CenterLength: 28 minutes
Episode Summary
In this Halloween Week special, the Simply Trade hosts dig into real-life trade horror stories that will make any exporter’s blood run cold.
Attorney Josh Rodman from Schulz Trade Law joins Lalo and Andy to share two spine-chilling case studies where export compliance went sideways — despite good intentions. From ballistic helmets misclassified under the wrong ECCN to shipments to Russia caught in the tangled web of ever-changing export controls, this episode proves that in trade, even honest mistakes can summon costly consequences.
Josh explains how voluntary self-disclosures (VSDs) can save a company from financial nightmares and why staying current with export regulations is critical to avoid getting haunted by unexpected investigations or penalties.
This episode blends legal insight with cautionary tales — perfect for your Halloween listening lineup!
Key Topics
Real-world export control “horror stories”
Misclassification of military equipment under ECCNs
Voluntary Self-Disclosures (VSDs) and how they mitigate penalties
OFAC subpoenas and overlapping U.S. government investigations
Russian sanctions, HTS code–based restrictions, and transshipment red flags
How exporters can protect themselves through due diligence and expert review
Resources & Mentions
Schulz Trade Law
Export Administration Regulations (EAR)
OFAC – U.S. Treasury Sanctions Programs
U.S. Department of Commerce – BIS
Global Training Center
🎧 Credits
Hosts:
Lalo Solorzano
Andy Shiles
Guests:
Josh Rodman - Schulz Trade Law
Producer:
Lalo Solorzano
📢 Subscribe & Follow
Stay up to date with Simply Trade — the podcast that makes international trade easy to understand (and sometimes spooky 👻).
🎧 Listen & Subscribe:
Apple Podcasts
Spotify
YouTube
Global Training Center LinkedIn
Join the Trade Geeks Community
![[TIPS] — Scary Compliance Stories: A Halloween Special!](https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/image-logo/14879952/ST_Andy-Annik-Lalo_1x1_EP-Coverart_v2_300x300.png)
Tuesday Oct 28, 2025
[TIPS] — Scary Compliance Stories: A Halloween Special!
Tuesday Oct 28, 2025
Tuesday Oct 28, 2025
Hosts:Renee Chiuchiarelli & Julie ParksPublished: October 28, 2025Length: ~10 minutesPresented by: Global Training Center
👻 Episode Summary
It’s a special Halloween edition of Simply Trade [Tips] with Hammer and Heels (Renee & Julie)! 🎙️
In this spooky seasonal episode, the hosts share “scary compliance stories” that every trade professional can learn from — tales of audits that wouldn’t die, supply chain skeletons, and hauntingly complex importer-of-record issues.
Between these frighteningly true stories and a fun “Trick-or-Treat: Fact or Fiction” lightning round, listeners will pick up valuable lessons about risk, recordkeeping, and compliance best practices — all while getting into the Halloween spirit.
🧠 Key Takeaways
Importer of Record Issues: Never assume your company should make entry — confirm the proper party has the right to do so.
Audit Nightmares: A prior disclosure can protect you from penalties, but only if it’s complete and accurate. Double-check everything before submitting.
Trick or Treat: Compliance Edition!
Can CBP review your General Ledger? ✅ Treat!
Do you need to reconcile quantity variances with Customs entries? ✅ Treat!
Is your broker solely responsible for recordkeeping? ❌ Trick! Importers must maintain their records for at least five years.
Is a parts database a strong compliance tool? ✅ Treat! It helps ensure data accuracy and consistency.
🧭 FIO (Figure It Out)
👉 This week’s action item:Trade can be terrifying — but preparation keeps the ghosts away! Take time to review your compliance “skeletons in the closet.”
Are your prior disclosures accurate and auditable?
Is your importer of record process clear?
Do your records meet the five-year rule?
And since it’s Halloween… figure out your costume, too! 🎭
💬 Keep the Conversation Going
Join the Trade Geeks Community at Global Training Center and share:
Your own “scary compliance story.”
How you’ve handled tricky audits or importer-of-record nightmares.
And, of course, what you’re dressing up as for Halloween!
🎧 Credits
Hosts:
Renee Chiuchiarelli
Julie Parks
Producer:
Lalo Solorzano
📲 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] The Real Monsters in Air Cargo with Donna Mullins](https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/ep-logo/pbblog14879952/Annik_News_Logo7liz1_300x300.jpg)
Monday Oct 27, 2025
[ROUNDUP] The Real Monsters in Air Cargo with Donna Mullins
Monday Oct 27, 2025
Monday Oct 27, 2025
Host: Annik SobingGuest: Donna Mullins, Vice President at Kale Info SolutionsPublished: October 27 (Halloweek Series)Length: ~20 minutesPresented by: Global Training Center
In this Halloween special on Simply Trade, host Annik sits down with air cargo leader Donna Mullins. With 34+ years navigating international logistics, Donna shares “horror stories” from neglected air cargo facilities, underfunded infrastructure, and the everyday challenges that haunt supply chains. They talk about why air cargo—though only 5% of total shipment volume—carries 35% of value and why modernizing this sector is urgent for the entire trade community.
Discover where the U.S. lags behind, how Donna’s advocacy is driving real industry change, and why collaboration among business, government, and tech is essential to exorcise inefficiency from the system.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
Air cargo’s overlooked funding and modernization crisis
Real-world impacts of outdated technology and infrastructure
How global competitors handle cargo better—and what to do about it
The role of industry committees in spurring U.S. policy improvements
Lessons from the pandemic and future directions for air shipments
Key Takeaways
Air cargo is essential, but too often trapped in “logistics horror.”
Solutions require advocacy, cross-sector collaboration, and investment in tech and people.
Don’t let supply chain monsters sneak up—be proactive with your partners and logistics choices!
Resources:
NCBFAA / AfA Whitepaper: SAFEGUARDING THE FUTURE OF AIR CARGO
GAO Report to Congressional Committees – Air Cargo – DOT Should Communicate Data Limitations and Identify Stakeholder Challenges - https://www.gao.gov/assets/gao-25-107334.pdf
Credits
Host: Annik SobingGuest: Donna Mullins
Producer: Lalo Solorzano
Subscribe & Follow
New 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 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 Have Topic Suggestions?📩 Reach us at SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.comor DM us on Twitter/X @SimplyTradePod
![[Cindy's Version] I did Something Bad: When Customs Comes Calling](https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/image-logo/14879952/ST_Andy-Annik-Lalo_1x1_EP-Coverart_v2_300x300.png)
Friday Oct 24, 2025
[Cindy's Version] I did Something Bad: When Customs Comes Calling
Friday Oct 24, 2025
Friday Oct 24, 2025
Host: Cindy AllenPublished: October 24, 2025Length: ~13 minutesPresented by: Global Training Center
I Did Something Bad: When Customs Comes Calling
This week, Cindy Allen — the Taylor Swift of Trade — draws inspiration from I Did Something Bad to explore one of the biggest trade compliance challenges happening right now: CBP’s surge in broad and complex Requests for Information (CF-28s and CF-29s).
Cindy breaks down what these new inquiries mean for importers, especially those dealing with Section 232 duties, component-level valuation, and IEEPA-related exemptions. She also discusses the latest updates on the U.S.–China trade relationship, new tariffs on vehicles and buses, the continuing government shutdown, and the upcoming IEEPA Supreme Court hearing.
If you’ve received a CF-28 that looks more like a full audit than a question, this episode is for you.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Status of the government shutdown and potential trade impacts
New Section 232 duties:• 25% on medium and heavy-duty vehicles and parts• 10% on buses (effective November 1)
Details on the new manufacturer duty offset for U.S.-assembled vehicles containing 15% or more U.S. content
Ongoing U.S.–China trade tensions and potential 100% tariffs on Chinese-origin goods
Updates on U.S.–India negotiations and high pharmaceutical tariffs
Expanded coverage of component-level aluminum and steel duties under Section 232
IEEPA Supreme Court hearing scheduled for November 5, and why it matters
Why importers are seeing an increase in CF-28 and CF-29 requests — and how to prepare
Key Takeaways:
The government shutdown has yet to cause major disruption, but risk increases with each passing week.
Section 232 duties are expanding to new products and components, creating valuation and traceability challenges.
Importers should be ready for CBP to ask for detailed component-level valuation and manufacturing data.
“Reasonable care” remains the guiding principle when exact valuation data is unavailable — document everything.
Proactive recordkeeping and supplier collaboration are critical to avoiding costly compliance issues.
Resources & Mentions:
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
Federal Register – Tariff & Trade Notices
U.S. Supreme Court Docket – IEEPA Case
U.S. Department of Commerce – Section 232 Program
Credits
Hosts:
Cindy Allen – LinkedIn
Trade Force Multiplier
Producer:
Lalo Solorzano – LinkedIn
Subscribe & Follow
New episodes every Friday.
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!

Thursday Oct 23, 2025
Thursday Oct 23, 2025
Hosts: Lalo Solorzano & Andy ShilesGuests:
Federico “Kiko” Zúñiga
JD Gonzalez
Kim Campbell
Carlos Martinez
Published: October 2025Length: ~42 minutesPresented by: Global Training Center
🌎 Connecting Borders Through Collaboration
In this special episode of Simply Trade, hosts Lalo Solorzano and Andy Shiles sit down with four key leaders representing the North American Customs Brokers Alliance (NACBA) — an unprecedented trilateral effort uniting customs professionals across Canada, the U.S., and Mexico.
Their guests — Federico “Kiko” Zúñiga, JD Gonzalez, Kim Campbell, and Carlos Martinez — share how NACBA came together to strengthen cross-border collaboration and ensure a unified voice for the customs brokerage community.
The discussion explores how the alliance helps tackle complex trade issues, supports modernization, and promotes professional dialogue beyond politics. With each representative bringing national perspective and decades of industry experience, this episode highlights how partnership and trust drive trade efficiency and policy progress across North America.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
The origin story and purpose behind NACBA
How customs brokers from three countries collaborate under one alliance
NACBA’s role in shaping trade discussions during the USMCA review
The importance of harmonization, transparency, and regulatory dialogue
How cross-border cooperation leads to smarter, more efficient trade
Key Takeaways:
NACBA represents a unified customs broker voice for North America.
Collaboration among NCBFAA, CIFFA, and CSCB strengthens the profession.
Policy influence is stronger when industry speaks with one regional perspective.
The upcoming 2025 NACBA Meeting in Toronto will continue the conversation on modernization, digitalization, and trade alignment.
Building trust between governments and brokers is essential to simplifying trade.
Resources & Mentions:
NCBFAA – National Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association of America
CIFFA – Canadian International Freight Forwarders Association
Canadian Society of Customs Brokers (CSCB)
Global Training Center
North American Customs Brokers Alliance (NACBA)
🎧 Credits
Hosts:
Lalo Solorzano
Andy Shiles
Guests:
Federico “Kiko” Zúñiga – United States / NACBA Founder
JD Gonzalez – United States / NCBFAA
Kim Campbell – Canada / CIFFA, CSCB
Carlos Martinez – Mexico
Producer:
Lalo Solorzano
📢 Subscribe & Follow
New 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 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!
![[CANADA] Latest Trade Insights with David Paterson, Ontario’s Representative in Washington, D.C.](https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/image-logo/14879952/ST_Andy-Annik-Lalo_1x1_EP-Coverart_v2_300x300.png)
Wednesday Oct 22, 2025
Wednesday Oct 22, 2025
Host: Warrington EllacottGuest: David Paterson, Ontario’s Representative in Washington, D.C.Published: October 2025Length: ~20minutesPresented by: Global Training Center
This week on Simply Trade, Warrington Ellacott from the Canadian Association of Importers and Exporters returns for another Canadian Pod edition. His guest is David Paterson, Ontario’s representative in Washington, D.C., who offers a front-row view of U.S.-Canada trade policy amid new tariffs, shifting supply chains, and political change.
Together, they break down the current state of Canada–U.S. trade under the Trump administration, the critical role Ontario plays as America's top customer, and how supply chains can adapt to the evolving tariff and compliance landscape.
From auto manufacturing and critical minerals to AI innovation, Ontario is positioning itself not only as a trade powerhouse but also as a strategic bridge between North American and global markets.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
The economic relationship between Ontario and the United States
Ontario’s role as the largest trading partner for 17 U.S. states
How the new IEEPA and sectoral tariffs are changing trade cost structures
Ways Ontario works with the U.S. Commerce Department to secure exemptions
Understanding the integration and fragility of cross-border supply chains
How recent U.S. tariffs on derivatives and auto parts impact logistics and compliance
Why Ontario attracts more than $40 billion annually in new investment
The province’s approach to diversifying trade, energy, and critical minerals
Ontario’s emerging edge in artificial intelligence, nuclear power, and R&D
Programs supporting investors through Invest Ontario and trade financing arms
Key Discussion Highlights
Integrated Supply Chains: Both countries depend on real-time cross-border flows, particularly for manufacturing and automotive sectors.
Tariff Challenges: New 232 and derivative tariffs complicate valuation and classification for exporters and brokers.
Policy Outlook: Renegotiation of the USMCA and upcoming court decisions could reshape tariff enforcement.
Ontario’s Edge: A strong industrial base, advanced education sector, and access to critical minerals position Ontario for global leadership.
Economic Strategy: Ontario’s pro-business approach—lower taxes, less red tape, and strategic investment funding—supports resilience amid global uncertainty.
Tips for Businesses and Traders
Stay informed on sectoral tariff exemptions under USMCA
Collaborate with provincial trade ministries and associations for updated compliance support.
Explore export opportunities in renewable energy, EV supply chains, and advanced manufacturing.
Use Ontario’s support programs to mitigate liquidity and trade disruption risks.
Key Takeaways
Ontario accounts for roughly 40% of Canada’s population and GDP, serving as the country’s economic and industrial core.
It remains the largest export destination for the U.S. — twice the trade volume of China and four times that of Japan or Germany.
Despite tariff headwinds, sustained cooperation and policy alignment are vital for maintaining competitiveness.
Ontario’s trade agencies are positioning for growth in AI, quantum technology, and life sciences.
Strong cross-border collaboration ensures mutual prosperity — even amid political and commercial recalibration.
Participant Credits
Host: Warrington Ellacott – Canadian Association of Importers and ExportersGuest: David Paterson – Ontario’s Representative in Washington, D.C.Producer: Lalo Solorzano
Subscribe & Follow
New Canadian edition episodes periodically. Presented by Global Training Center — empowering trade professionals through expert training and compliance resources.👉 www.GlobalTrainingCenter.com
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 professionals!
Want to Be on the Show or Have Topic Suggestions?📩 SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.comor DM us on X @SimplyTradePod
![[TIPS] Managing a Project: Brainstorming & Doing the Homework](https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/image-logo/14879952/ST_Andy-Annik-Lalo_1x1_EP-Coverart_v2_300x300.png)
Tuesday Oct 21, 2025
[TIPS] Managing a Project: Brainstorming & Doing the Homework
Tuesday Oct 21, 2025
Tuesday Oct 21, 2025
Hosts: Renee Chuichiarelli & Julie ParksPublished: October 21, 2025Length: ~6 minutesPresented by: Global Training Center
💡 Episode Summary
In this episode of Simply Trade [Tips], Hammer and Heels (Renee & Julie) kick off their new Project Management series. They break down how to confidently launch and manage a project—whether it’s a massive ERP implementation or something more focused like writing a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP).
Their secret to getting started? Two simple but essential steps:
Brainstorming — Define your project, identify your stakeholders, and get their buy-in early.
Doing the Homework — Research your options, analyze internal vs. external solutions, and always widen your perspective when talking to vendors or IT teams.
Whether you’re a trade manager or new to project ownership, this episode gives you a framework to get your next initiative off the ground efficiently and with purpose.
🧠 Key Takeaways
Identify & Scope Clearly: Define what problem your project solves and who benefits from it.
Get Stakeholder Support: Involve cross-functional teams early to ensure buy-in and alignment.
Do Your Homework: Explore both internal and external solutions before committing to one.
Ask the Right Questions: When meeting with vendors or IT, leave time to learn about other potential solutions they offer.
Think Long-Term: Every small project builds skills for handling larger, enterprise-level challenges.
🧭 FIO (Figure It Out)
👉 Action Item: Find (or assign) a project!If you’re a team member, ask your boss what challenges need attention and create a small project to address one.If you’re a leader, assign a project that helps someone on your team build project management skills.Then share your progress in the Trade Geeks community!
💬 Keep the Conversation Going
Join the conversation on Trade Geeks and tell us:
What project did you pick or assign?
What step of the brainstorming or homework process helped you the most?
Any surprises you found while scoping your project?
👉 Trade Geeks Community
🎧 Credits
Hosts:
Renee Chiuchiarelli
Julie Parks
Producer:
Lalo Solorzano
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

Why Simply Trade
We have been in the business of educating companies and trade professionals in all things trade since 1991. In that time we have helped thousands with meet their trade compliance challenges face on.
Because trade changes almost daily and not all topics could be covered in a full day of training, we created the Simply Trade podcast to continue to educate and inform the trade community about current changes, new information, or just about anything trade related.
We would like your feedback on what we are doing right or wrong to make the show better. Also, if you, or someone you know, would like to be a guest on the show, or would like to sponsor the show, or just want to suggest a topic for us to cover on the show, please reach out to us via email at SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com or via Twitter @SimplyTradePod.
We hope you enjoy the show and do not hesitate to reach out to us.




