Simply Trade

[TIPS] Why Is This A Tricky Conversation

Episode Summary
In this kickoff to Series 4, Renee Chiuchiarelli and Julie Parks dive into one of the toughest parts of any trade or corporate role: difficult conversations. Whether it’s salary discussions, performance feedback, non-compliance discoveries, or delivering perceived “bad news,” Renee and Julie break down why these conversations feel hard — and more importantly — how to approach them with clarity, preparation, and confidence.
They outline:
What qualifies as a difficult conversation
How to prepare before you engage
How to choose the right words
How to use the Likes, Concerns, Suggestions (LCS) method to keep communication constructive and forward-moving
This is a practical, relatable episode with real-world scenarios from their careers — perfect for trade pros, team leads, new managers, and anyone navigating delicate workplace interactions.
👉 Key Learnings
Difficult conversations come in many forms: salary topics, performance discussions, non-compliance findings, and more.
Preparation matters: scripting, writing things down, framing the discussion, and thinking through tone can make or break the delivery.
Recapping the context is essential — your version of events may not match the receiver’s.
Anticipate their questions: put yourself in the other person’s shoes before you meet.
Use the LCS method: Likes → Concerns → Suggestions to structure discussions in a constructive, repeatable way.
Follow-up is crucial: especially if the first contact was via email — close it with a conversation.
🛠️ Tip of the Week
Use the LCS Framework (Likes, Concerns, Suggestions) to keep hard conversations clear, structured, and less emotionally charged.
📣 FIO – Figure It Out / Call to Action
Practice using LCS this week — at work, at home, with your team, anywhere.Then come tell us in the Trade Geeks Community how it went!Did it make the conversation easier? Did it shift the tone? We want to hear it.
🗣️ Keep the Conversation Going
Join the discussion in the Trade Geeks community and share:
What difficult conversations you’re navigating
Whether you tried the LCS approach
What worked and what still feels challenging
We’re building these series so you don’t have to figure this out alone — come learn with us.
Credits
Hosts
Renee ChiuchiarelliLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/renee-chiuchiarelli-lcb-ccs-8964a19/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast
Julie ParksLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-ann-parks/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast
Producer
Lalo SolorzanoLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lalosolorzano/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast
Subscribe & Follow
New TIPS episodes every Tuesday
Presented by:Global Training Center — education, consulting, workshops, and compliance resources for trade pros👉 https://www.globaltrainingcenter.com/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast
Connect with Us
Simply Trade Podcast on LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/global-training-center/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast
Global Training Center on LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/global-training-center/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast
YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@SimplyTradePod?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast
Spotifyhttps://open.spotify.com/show/09m199JO6fuNumbcrHTkGq?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast
Apple Podcastshttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/simply-trade/id1640329690?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast
Trade Geeks Communityhttps://www.globaltrainingcenter.com/portal/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast
💬 Want to Be on the Show or Suggest a Topic?
Email us at SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.comOr DM us on Twitter/X: @SimplyTradePod

[ROUNDUP] The Art of Trade: An Attorney on Compliance Education

Hosts: Annik Sobing (annik@simplytradepodcast.com | LinkedIn)
Guest: Natalie Zink: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nataliezink/
Producer: Annik Sobing 
Length: ~15 minutes
Presented by: Global Training Center
Episode Overview
In this episode of Simply Trade Roundup, host Annik Sobing interviews Natalie Zink, an experienced trade attorney and thought leader, about her journey in trade compliance education and why ongoing learning in this field is essential. Natalie discusses taking courses at Global Training Center and gaining practical insights into the daily challenges faced by in-house trade compliance teams. The conversation highlights key trade compliance pillars—tariff classification, country of origin, and valuation—and how a deeper understanding helps attorneys and professionals provide better business and legal advice. They also explore current issues like the upcoming IEPA Supreme Court decision and the critical role of thorough documentation in an evolving enforcement landscape.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
The importance of continuous education for trade compliance professionals and attorneys alike
Practical insights into how in-house compliance teams operate day-to-day
The three pillars of import compliance and why they matter: tariff classification, origin, and valuation
How collaboration between brokers, in-house teams, and legal counsel improves risk management
Upcoming regulatory challenges, including pending Supreme Court cases affecting tariffs under IEPA
The critical necessity of documenting import decisions to meet reasonable care standards and prepare for potential audits or enforcement actions
Subscribe & Follow
New TIPS episodes every Tuesday.
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
Want to Be on the Show or Suggest a Topic?
Email us at SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.comor DM us on Twitter/X: @SimplyTradePod

Classify Your Thanksgiving and Frozen Turkey Bowling with QuickCode

Episode: Thanksgiving Special 2025Hosts: Andy Shiles & Lalo SolorzanoGuest(s):
Shannon Hynds, Co-Founder of QuickCode
Joe Morales, Co-Founder of QuickCodePublished: November 2025Length: ~48 minutesPresented by: Global Training Center
🦃 Episode Summary
This week, Andy and Lalo bring you a fun, festive, and surprisingly educational Thanksgiving special! They’re joined by long-time friends of the show, Shannon Hynds and Joe Morales from QuickCode, who accepted Lalo’s challenge to “classify Thanksgiving.”
From running shoes for the Turkey Trot, to football gear, to pasta anti-dumping surprises, and even a frozen turkey for bowling (yes, seriously!), Shannon gives a behind-the-scenes walkthrough of how QuickCode uses AI to classify everyday Thanksgiving items — and how the complex tariff environment impacts the cost of your holiday table.
This episode blends trade geekery with holiday traditions, showing how tariffs, food origins, USMCA benefits, anti-dumping cases, and even forced labor considerations affect the simplest things… like cinnamon. Viewers get an on-screen demo of QuickCode’s classification tools, tariff calculations, sourcing decisions, and bill-of-materials logic — so we recommend watching this episode on YouTube!
Funny, insightful, and packed with practical examples, this Thanksgiving edition is a refreshing break from the usual policy-heavy episodes.
🗝️ Key Takeaways
Holiday items are full of tariff surprises — from sneakers to pasta to canned fruit.
Anti-dumping cases can hit unexpected products, like Italian pasta (Barilla at 19%!).
IEEPA and 301 tariffs dramatically change sourcing strategies, even for food.
USMCA benefits can wipe out tariffs for products like Topo Chico and tequila.
QuickCode's AI-driven workflow simplifies classification but still requires human judgment for 10-digit HTS codes.
Forced labor and denied party screening are becoming essential parts of import compliance.
Frozen turkey bowling is a terrible but hilarious classification challenge.
🦃 Thanksgiving “Products” They Classified
Nike Air Max running shoes (China) → Sneaker tariffs stack up to 47.5%
Football for backyard games → Rates vary widely depending on origin
Italian pasta (Barilla) → Anti-dumping shocker: 19%
Canned pineapple (Brazil) → Eligible for agricultural exemption on IEEPA
Cinnamon → Most sourced from Indonesia
Ranch Water components (Tequila, mineral water, limes) → USMCA to the rescue
Tamales → A surprisingly complex classification
Frozen turkey for bowling → Novelty sports equipment??? (Maybe.)
🍽️ Resources & Mentions
QuickCode – Trade classification and compliance automationhttps://www.quickcode.ai/
Shannon Hynds (LinkedIn)https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannon-hynds/
Joe Morales (LinkedIn)https://www.linkedin.com/in/joseph-morales-a6036634/
U.S. Customs & Border Protection – HTSUShttps://hts.usitc.gov/
🙌 Credits
Presented by: Global Training CenterHosts: Andy Shiles & Lalo SolorzanoGuests:
Shannon Hynds, Co-Founder of QuickCode – LinkedIn
Joe Morales, Co-Founder of QuickCode – LinkedIn
Producer: Lalo SolorzanoSpecial Thanks: QuickCode for providing the live classification demo and Thanksgiving chaos
📢 Subscribe & Follow
Stay connected with the Simply Trade community!
LinkedIn – Global Training Centerhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/global-training-center?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast
LinkedIn – Cindy Allenhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/cindy-allen-a3188210/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast
YouTube – Simply Trade Podcasthttps://www.youtube.com/@simplytradepod?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast
Spotifyhttps://open.spotify.com/show/09m199JO6fuNumbcrHTkGq?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast
Apple Podcastshttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/simply-trade/id1640329690?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast
Trade Geeks Communityhttps://globaltrainingcenter.com/portal/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcas

[NCBFAA] Transportation Committee Year in Review

NCBFAA Transportation Committee Spotlight: 2025 Wins, 2026 Priorities & Industry Insights
Host: Lalo Solorzano
Guest(s):
Kim Calicott — NCBFAA Transportation Committee Chair - LinkedIn
Rich Roche — NVOCC Subcommittee Chair - LinkedIn
Donna Kavanaugh — Export Compliance Subcommittee Chair- LinkedIn
Published: November 26, 2026
Length: ~ 44 min.
Presented by: Global Training Center — globaltrainingcenter.com
Episode Summary
In this special collaboration with the National Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association of America (NCBFAA), Simply Trade launches a multi-episode series highlighting the critical work of NCBFAA committees. This episode features the Transportation Committee, covering NVOCC activity, export compliance, air freight, logistics, and the evolving regulatory landscape.
Host Lalo Solorzano speaks with committee chair Kim Calicott, along with subcommittee leaders Rich Roche (NVOCC) and Donna Kavanaugh (Export Compliance). The group breaks down the major wins and challenges of 2025, key regulatory shifts, and what members should expect heading into 2026.
Key Learnings & Themes
1. Transportation Committee Overview
Kim explains the structure of the Transportation Committee and its four subcommittees:
NVOCC Subcommittee (Rich Roche): Guidance on OSRA, FMC rulemaking, D&D billing, “clear as mud” interpretations, and a forthcoming NVOCC Best Practices Working Group.
Export Compliance Subcommittee (Donna Kavanaugh): Monitoring regulatory activity from BIS, OFAC, Census, CBP, and DDTC while educating members on practical impacts.
Air Freight Subcommittee (Donna Mullins): Infrastructure modernization efforts, partnership with the Airforwarders Association (AFA), and involvement in a GAO study on air cargo facility conditions.
Logistics Committee: Watching driver shortages, truck/equipment tariff impacts, Electronic Export Manifest (EEM) development, and alignment with international systems like ICS2.
2. 2025 Regulatory Swing
Highlights include:
FMC’s D&D Final Rule implementation and the section struck down by the courts.
BIS tightening China-related controls and reevaluating rules inherited from prior administrations.
Pause on the significant Affiliates Rule, which may reemerge in 2026.
Changing rules related to firearms, AI, and Syria sanctions.
“Clear as mud” advisory responses from FMC’s General Counsel.
3. Advocacy That Makes a Difference
NCBFAA’s early engagement with agencies prevents harmful regulatory outcomes—such as removing unintended burdens on NVOCCs in OSRA’s original wording.
4. Encouragement for New Participants
Both Kim and Donna stress:
No one starts out knowing everything
Every question matters
Committee involvement accelerates growth and strengthens the industry
The association thrives on collaboration across company size, mode, and experience level
5. Looking Ahead to 2026
Key upcoming items include:
Launch of the NVOCC Best Practices Working Group
Ongoing work on EEM and air cargo modernization
BIS rule reviews after the Affiliates Rule pause
Continued focus on driver shortages and equipment tariffs
NVOCC Day 2026 in New Orleans on January 22
Takeaways for Listeners
NCBFAA membership is valuable for all trade professionals—brokers, forwarders, logistics providers, and affiliates.
Exporting remains highly regulated and rapidly evolving—missteps can be significant.
Committee participation is one of the most impactful ways to deepen knowledge and support industry-wide improvements.
Agencies are shifting priorities quickly; staying informed is essential.
Resources Mentioned
Here are all referenced agencies, programs, and industry groups with embedded official links:
NCBFAA & Industry Associations
NCBFAA — ncbfaa.org
Airforwarders Association (AFA) — airforwarders.org
Government Accountability Office (GAO) — gao.gov
Regulatory Agencies
Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) — fmc.gov
Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) — bis.doc.gov
Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) — home.treasury.gov/policy-issues/ofac
U.S. Census Bureau (AES/Exports) — census.gov/foreign-trade/aes
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) — cbp.gov
Transportation Security Administration (TSA) — tsa.gov
Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (DDTC / ITAR) — pmddtc.state.gov
Regulations / Programs
OSRA – Ocean Shipping Reform Act — FMC OSRA Overview
Demerage & Detention (D&D) Final Rule — FMC Rulemaking
Electronic Export Manifest (EEM) — CBP EEM Information
ICS2 – EU Import Control System 2 — European Commission ICS2
Credits
Host:Lalo Solorzano — Global Training Center
Guests:
Kim Calicott — LinkedIn
Rich Roche — LinkedIn
Donna Kavanaugh — LinkedIn
Presented by:Global Training Center — Website / LinkedIn
Subscribe & Follow
YouTube: Simply Trade Channel
Spotify: Simply Trade on Spotify
Apple Podcasts: Simply Trade on Apple Podcasts
Trade Geeks Community: Join Trade Geeks

[TIPS] Taking a Lap

Hosts: Renee Chiuchiarelli & Julie ParksPublished: November 25, 2025Length: ~10 minutesPresented by: Global Training Center
🎙️ Episode Summary
In this final installment of the Managing a Project series, Renee and Julie close things out with one of the most overlooked — yet most impactful — phases of any project: Taking a Lap.
Whether your project was large and complex or small and focused, how you wrap it up matters. Today’s tips center on:
1️⃣ Celebration & Recognition
The moment a project wraps is the moment to pause and recognize the people who made it possible. Renee and Julie break down practical ways to shine a spotlight on contributors, including:
Recognition emails (even ghostwritten for leaders)
Monetary or non-monetary awards
Shout-outs in staff meetings
Company swag
Sharing stories and standout moments
Formal celebration moments — both virtual and in person
Celebration isn’t superficial — it drives morale, retention, engagement, and team culture.
2️⃣ Lessons Learned
Once the recognition is done, it’s time for reflection:
What worked really well?
What slowed things down?
What would you do differently next time?
What should future teams know before they repeat the process?
Documenting lessons learned helps the next phase, the next project, or even the next team hit the ground running — and ensures knowledge doesn't disappear due to turnover or time.
3️⃣ Applying This Beyond “Projects”
Renee and Julie remind listeners that “projects” aren’t just software implementations or multi-month changes.
A compliance issue that took months to resolve? That's a project.
Broker management improvements? A project.
Process enhancements? Also a project.
And all of them deserve:✨ Celebration✨ Documentation✨ Reflection
FIO — Figure It Out (This Week’s Action)
Practice celebrating.Identify something — big or small — that you, your team, or a colleague recently completed.
Call it out
Share it upward
Tell the story
Recognize the impact
Spread it broadly so leadership sees your team’s value
Then hop over to the Trade Geeks Community and share your celebration moment!
Keep the Conversation Going
Join the discussion inside the Trade Geeks community!👉 What has your team recently accomplished?👉 Did you “take a lap”?👉 What did you learn along the way?
Continue the conversation here: Trade Geeks Community
Credits
Hosts:Renee Chiuchiarellihttps://www.linkedin.com/in/renee-chiuchiarelli-lcb-ccs-8964a19/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcastJulie Parkshttps://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-ann-parks/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast
Producer: Lalo Solorzanohttps://www.linkedin.com/in/lalosolorzano/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast
🎧 Subscribe & Follow
New TIPS episodes every Tuesday.
Presented by:Global Training Center — education, consulting, workshops & compliance resources for trade professionals.👉 https://www.globaltrainingcenter.com/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast
Connect With Us:
Simply Trade Podcast on LinkedIn
Global Training Center on LinkedIn
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
Trade Geeks Community — https://www.globaltrainingcenter.com/portal/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast
💬 Don’t forget to rate, review & share with your fellow trade geeks!
Want to Be on the Show or Have Topic Suggestions?
📧 SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com🐦 Twitter/X: @SimplyTradePod

[ROUNDUP] Holiday Therapy for Trade Professionals

Hosts: Anik Sobing (annik@simplytradepodcast.com | LinkedIn)Guests: Michelle Frennier, Bonnie Gutz, Benita Lee, Kyle GroblerPublished: November 21, 2025Length: ~30 minutesPresented by: Global Training Center
LinkedIn & Email Contacts:
Michelle Frennier: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellefrennier/ | evolutiontradesolutions@gmail.com
Bonnie Gutz: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bonniegutz/ | bonniegutz@gmail.com
Benita Lee: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benitalee1/ | benita@blprofessionalcorp.com
Kyle Grobler: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylegrobler/ | kgrobler@outlook.com
Episode OverviewThis festive special edition of Simply Trade Roundup features host Anik Sobing with trade leaders Michelle Frennier, Bonnie Gutz, Benita Lee, and Kyle Grobler discussing the challenge of managing work-life balance in the global trade industry during the holiday season. They share personal approaches to setting boundaries, cultural differences between North America and Europe, leadership strategies to reduce stress on teams during critical times, and the importance of a supportive professional community. The conversation blends trade realities with human insights, making it a valuable listen for anyone juggling intense trade responsibilities alongside personal commitments.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
Work-Life Balance Strategies
How to establish and communicate personal boundaries in a constantly evolving trade environment
Handling family priorities alongside trade demands with examples from different regions
The role that flexibility and clear leadership play in reducing stress at work
Leadership and Team Management Over Holidays
Approaches to distributing work and managing important deadlines during peak seasons
Why good communication and delegation are essential for team wellbeing
The impact of leadership style on team morale
Personal Well-being and Community
Tips for staying physically and mentally healthy, including holiday fitness challenges
The value of trade community connections, virtual book clubs, and shared resources
Encouragement for self-care and finding routines that support long-term resilience
Cultural and Holiday Trade Observances
Stories from the US, Canada, Ireland, and Europe about handling holiday schedules
How cultural attitudes toward work and time off affect trade operations
Preparing for and adapting to last-minute trade developments even during holidays
Subscribe & Follow
New TIPS episodes every Tuesday.
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
Want to Be on the Show or Suggest a Topic?
Email us at SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.comor DM us on Twitter/X: @SimplyTradePod
 

[Cindy’s Version] Everything Has Changed

Host: Cindy AllenPublished: November 21, 2025Length: ~12 minutesPresented by: Global Training Center
Summary
This week on Simply Trade: Cindy’s Version, Cindy Allen unpacks a dramatic shift in global trade policy—one that touches everything from tariff reductions to new exemptions and unexpected reversals. Inspired by Taylor Swift’s Everything Has Changed, Cindy explains how seemingly overnight, the trade landscape has transformed in ways that directly impact importers, customs brokers, and compliance professionals.
From significant tariff rollbacks for China and Europe to new carve-outs for select products, Cindy walks through the week’s biggest developments and breaks down what’s real, what’s promised, and what’s still uncertain. In a moment where policies shift faster than supply chains can adapt, this episode brings clarity to the change—and perspective to the pace of it all.
This Week in Trade
• The administration announces a 10% reduction in tariffs on Chinese goods, including items previously subject to Section 301 duties• European-origin goods also receive reductions, with guidance forthcoming• CBP releases clarification on how these reductions apply operationally• Importers await confirmation on whether refunds will be automatic or require PSCs or protests• Supply chains begin recalibrating landed cost models and forecasting impacts
New Trade Developments
• China signals cooperation by easing rare earth export controls and increasing U.S. agricultural imports• The EU indicates interest in parallel reductions if the U.S. maintains consistency• Treasury and USTR state reductions are prospective, while refund policy remains under review• Early reduction categories include selected machinery, metals, and electronics• CBP urges importers to verify HTS classifications to ensure correct duty application
Why This Feels Like “Everything Has Changed”
Cindy highlights how quickly and massively the trade environment has shifted in just a few days. Overnight tariff reductions require importers to revisit landed costs, adjust contracts, notify customers, and reevaluate sourcing strategies. Customs brokers must reconfigure systems, classification profiles, and compliance workflows while fielding urgent questions from clients looking for immediate clarity. And with refund policy still unknown, teams must prepare for multiple scenarios, even as new developments continue to unfold. The cumulative effect: everything truly feels like it changed all at once.
Key Takeaways
• Tariff reductions could significantly cut duties for many importers• Refund guidance is still pending and may not be automatic• Accurate HTS classification is essential to capture reduced rates• China’s concessions may signal a possible easing of tensions• The speed of regulatory change is accelerating across all fronts
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.
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!

IEEPA, 232, and the New Tariff Playbook: Eric Hargraves Breaks Down What’s Next for U.S. Trade Policy

 
Episode: #394Hosts:  Andy Shiles & Lalo SolorzanoGuest: Eric HargravesDirector – Elliott DavisLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-hargraves-98a4572/Firm: Elliott Davis — https://www.linkedin.com/company/elliott-davis-1920/Published : November 20, 2025Length: ~34 minutesPresented by: Global Training Center
Episode Overview
In this in-depth roundtable discussion, Andy and Lalo welcome back Eric Hargraves, a listener favorite and trade policy expert known for breaking down complex issues with clarity. This episode tackles one of the hottest topics in global trade: the future of tariffs, IEEPA, and how the Supreme Court’s upcoming decision could reshape U.S. trade policy.
Eric shares his early analysis of the recent Supreme Court oral arguments on the use of IEEPA (International Emergency Economic Powers Act) to impose broad, country-wide tariffs—an approach now under scrutiny. Together, they explore whether the U.S. is shifting away from country-of-origin-based tariffs toward sector-based or product-based tariff frameworks, and what that means for importers, exporters, and manufacturers.
They also take a historical walk through Section 232 and 301, discuss China’s role in the global supply chain, unpack forced labor concerns, and examine how trade policy is being used not just as an economic tool—but a geopolitical one.
If your business relies on global sourcing, supply chain planning, cost modeling, or tariff strategy, this is a must-listen episode that cuts through political noise and focuses on operational reality.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
🔍 1. The Supreme Court & IEEPA — What’s at Stake
Why the Court is skeptical about using IEEPA for broad tariff actions
Clarifying the difference between regulating importation and imposing de facto taxes
What a ruling against IEEPA tariffs could trigger
🧭 2. The Pivot Toward Sectoral Tariffs
Eric outlines an emerging pattern:
More Section 232 investigations (steel, aluminum, copper, lumber, autos, medical devices, robotics)
More code-specific exclusions and carve-outs
More targeted vs. country-wide tariff strategiesThis gives trade professionals more predictability—and new compliance challenges.
🌏 3. How We Got Here: WTO, China, & Forced Labor
The group revisits:
Post-WWII tariff negotiations and asymmetrical concessions
How China’s WTO accession reshaped global manufacturing
Forced labor issues (UFLPA) and global ethical responsibilities
Why bipartisan support exists for confronting unfair trade practices
⚙️ 4. Trade as a National Security Strategy
Why 232 tariffs matter for:
Defense industrial base
Pharmaceuticals
Critical minerals
Rare earths
Robotics and advanced manufacturing
Andy and Eric also highlight how trade agreements with partners like Australia and Japan support de-risking supply chains.
📈 5. What Importers Should Do RIGHT NOW
Eric provides three practical action steps:
Map exposure & opportunities
Understand current tariffs vs. new exemptions/exclusions
Identify where sectoral shifts may affect your sourcing
Prepare for legacy frameworks to shift
USMCA review in 2026
New carve-outs in CAFTA-DR and other bilateral frameworks
Don’t pivot your supply chain based on rumors
Only respond to published Federal Register notices + CBP guidance
Model landed cost scenarios now to act quickly later
He also warns companies to anticipate supplier renegotiations if tariff burdens disappear—they may try to claw back FOB discounts.
Resources Mentioned
Section 301 tariffs
Section 232 investigations
UFLPA (Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act)
WTO, GATT, and historical tariff frameworks
U.S. bilateral trade agreements and exemptions
Federal Register notices
CBP CSMS guidance
📢 Subscribe & Follow
 

[TIPS] Managing Roadblocks & Running Your Project Smoothly

Series: Project Management (Episode 4)Hosts: Renee Chiuchiarelli & Julie ParksLength: ~11 minutesPresented by: Global Training Center
Episode Summary
In this fourth installment of the Project Management mini-series, Renee and Julie break down what happens after you've aligned stakeholders, gained approvals, and kicked off your trade compliance project.
This episode focuses on the real work — running the project, managing roadblocks, and keeping everything on track with structure, clarity, and communication.
Renee and Julie walk through four practical steps that successful project managers rely on, whether you're implementing trade software, managing a compliance program, or improving broker performance.
If you're involved in any ongoing project (big or small), this episode gives you a clear, repeatable framework that keeps tasks moving, risks controlled, and your team accountable.
Key Takeaways
1️⃣ Establish Regular Tag-Ups
Two types of meetings are essential:
Project Team Meetings: more frequent, tactical, working-level
Sponsor or Leadership Tag-Ups: higher-level updates, monthly/quarterly
These keep everyone informed, connected, and aligned.
2️⃣ Run the Meeting with a Plan + Issues Log
A project without a plan… isn’t a project.Use tools such as:
Microsoft Project
Excel (RAG status works great)
A shared issues log
Your issues log should track:
Item number
Description
Date opened
Responsible party
Date closed
Notes (timestamp each meeting)
The log keeps the team organized and accountable — without calling anyone out.
3️⃣ Keep an Updated Risk Log
Projects evolve — and so do risks.New risks emerge, scope shifts, resources fluctuate.Your risk log helps you:
Track emerging risks
Flag issues for leadership
Prevent surprises during sponsor reviews
4️⃣ Communicate — Especially with a Round Table
Every meeting should end with:👉 “Does anyone have additional roadblocks or concerns we haven’t discussed?”
This creates a safe environment where team members feel heard, aligned, and empowered to raise real issues before they derail progress.
FIO: Figure It Out
This week’s action:➡️ Start an Issues Log — even for one small project.
Use Excel to track tasks, owners, dates, and notes. Send it out before and after each meeting.You’ll instantly improve alignment, accountability, and flow.
Once you try it, share your results in the Trade Geeks Community!
Keep the Conversation Going
Tell Renee and Julie how your issues log is working!Join the Trade Geeks Community:👉 Trade Geeks
Credits
Hosts:
Renee Chiuchiarelli - LinkedIn
Julie Parks - LinkedIn
Producer:
Lalo SolorzanoLinkedIn
Subscribe & Follow
New TIPS episodes every Tuesday.
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
Want to Be on the Show or Suggest a Topic?
Email us at SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.comor DM us on Twitter/X: @SimplyTradePod

[ROUNDUP] How CBP Is Using AI to Detect Tariff Cheats with Pete Mento

Host: Annik SobingGuest: Pete MentoPublished: November 17, 2025Length: ~34 minutesPresented by: Global Training Center
 
In this week’s News Roundup, host Annik Sobing is joined by global trade expert Pete Mento for a fast-paced and deeply insightful conversation about how U.S. Customs and Border Protection is using AI-based targeting to detect valuation fraud, origin manipulation, and transshipment schemes.
Pete explains why AI represents a new era of enforcement — where anomalies, false declarations, forced labor indicators, and risky supplier networks can be identified in seconds. He also warns that companies who think they’re “getting away with” origin washing or transshipment are likely to be caught.The two also dive into the coming Supreme Court decision on IEEPA tariffs, possible refund scenarios, the political landscape, and why proper recordkeeping may determine who survives the next wave of enforcement.
A high-energy, no-nonsense episode packed with real-world examples every importer needs to hear.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
🔎 Customs Is Using AI — Whether Industry Likes It or Not
AI is now detecting anomalies in classification, valuation, and country-of-origin patterns at scale.
Federal agencies are treating AI outputs as actionable enforcement data — even while telling importers not to fully trust AI themselves.
⚠️ Transshipment Is NOT Legal — Full Stop
Pete emphasizes clearly:“Transshipment is not something anyone should ever even consider.”
CBP’s data on supply-chain linkages (including forced-labor networks) makes origin washing easy to detect.
📚 Recordkeeping & Audit-Readiness Will Decide Who Survives
Companies with strong internal audits, clean documentation, and proactive supplier engagement will be best positioned if tariff refunds become available.
Importers relying on “but we’ve never been caught before” are in for a painful wake-up call.
💼 Enforcement Pressure Is Rising
Billions (potentially trillions) of dollars in tariffs mean CBP is operating more like a revenue agency than a facilitation agency.
Importers, suppliers, and freight forwarders are all facing tougher expectations for compliance.
🧠 AI Tools for Industry Are Catching Up
Companies like Otana, Exiger, and E2Open (formerly Avalara Trade) are developing tools to help importers audit HTS, valuation, and supply chain risk.
Pete predicts that in 12–24 months, AI-driven compliance tools will become standard for freight forwarders and importers.
⚖️ The Supreme Court IEEPA Tariff Case
Pete shares a detailed and balanced projection:
The Court may rule narrowly against the legality of how certain tariffs were implemented.
Refunds may be possible — but the mechanism could create a massive administrative burden.
Only importers who preserved rights (filing suit, protests, or PAAs) may recover funds.
🌍 Global Ripples
Other countries may adopt similar tariff structures as they watch U.S. revenue patterns.
Mexico’s 2026 tariff framework is highlighted as an example of forward notice and adjustment time.
RESOURCES & MENTIONS
Here are all items mentioned in the episode:
Article: “US Customs Will Use AI to Detect Tariff Cheats”
ACE (Automated Commercial Environment) – CBP’s entry & account system
ICPA – International Compliance Professionals Association
CREDITS
Host: Annik Sobing — LinkedIn
Guest: Pete Mento — LinkedIn
Producer: Lalo Solorzano — LinkedIn
SUBSCRIBE & FOLLOW
New Roundup episodes every week.
Presented by:Global Training Center — 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
Want to be on the show or have topic suggestions?Email: SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.comTwitter/X: @SimplyTradePod