Simply Trade

[TIPS] Don’t Waste a Good Crisis: Elevating Trade in Times of Tariff Chaos

In this Tariff Chaos mini-series, Hammer & Heels (Renee & Julie) tackle the idea of not wasting a good crisis. When trade is front-page news and executives are finally paying attention, it’s the perfect moment for trade professionals to strengthen their visibility and push key initiatives forward.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Personal Branding Matters – Use this visibility to define your mission, values, and how you want to be perceived in the organization.
Elevate Customs & Trade Departments – Ensure your team has a voice in newsletters, task forces, and leadership discussions. Trade is no longer “back office”—it’s front and center.
Dust Off Shelved Projects – Revisit those compliance, automation, or mitigation projects that were previously denied and reposition them in today’s crisis-driven context.
Julie’s FIO (Figure It Out)
👉 This week’s action item: Create your dream list of compliance projects that were once shelved. Put them back on the table so you’re ready to pitch them when tariff chaos brings leadership’s attention.
Keep the Conversation Going
Join the Trade Geeks Community at Global Training Center and tell Renee & Julie:
Did you create your dream list?
Which project are you most excited to bring back into the conversation?
Credits
Hosts: Renee Chiuchiarellihttps://www.linkedin.com/in/renee-chiuchiarelli-lcb-ccs-8964a19/ Julie Parks:https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-ann-parks/ 
Producer: Lalo Solorzanohttps://www.linkedin.com/in/lalosolorzano/
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 on LinkedIn, LinkedIn (GTC), YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts,join the Trade Geeks community, or email us at simplytrade@globaltrainingcenter.com.
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] Tariffs, EVs, and Forced Labor: What’s Driving the Auto Industry Now

Automotive in FluxThis week on the Simply Trade Roundup, host Annik Sobing is joined by licensed customs broker and Master Customs Specialist Filipp Zaborenko to tackle the fast-changing world of automotive trade compliance. From shifting tariffs and forced labor enforcement to steel and aluminum duties and the evolving EV market, the conversation dives into how automakers and compliance professionals can keep pace with uncertainty while planning for the future.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Tariff Shifts – The new EU–US trade deal and what a 15% duty means for automakers
Forced Labor Rules – Why due diligence never went away — and why enforcement is heating up
Cost Planning Uncertainty – How long-term auto production faces tariff unpredictability
Classification Challenges – Why misclassifying parts could cost millions under new rules
EVs Under the Microscope – The love-hate relationship with electric vehicles and new classification hurdles
Compliance Strategy – Staying proactive when trade feels more like reaction mode
Key Takeaways:
Tariff changes reshape auto supply chains but leave long-term planning murky.
Forced labor enforcement remains a top priority for global automakers.
Steel and aluminum tariffs add complexity to tariff classification and cost modeling.
Correct classification directly impacts USMCA eligibility and tariff exposure.
Compliance pros must embrace both vigilance and technology — including AI tools — to stay ahead.
Resources & Mentions:
Filipp Zaborenko’s upcoming Automotive Classification Advanced Mini-Course (Sept 16–18) via Global Training Center
Recent EU–US automotive tariff updates
UFLPA and forced labor due diligence requirements
CBP guidance on steel and aluminum tariffs
Credits
Host: Annik Sobinghttps://www.linkedin.com/in/annik-sobing-mba-b226251a2/
Producer: Lalo Solorzanohttps://www.linkedin.com/in/lalosolorzano/
Guest: Filipp Zaborenko
Subscribe & Follow:
New Roundup episodes every Monday.
Presented by: Global Training Center — providing education, consulting, workshops, and compliance resources for trade professionals.
Connect with us on LinkedIn, LinkedIn (GTC), YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts,join the Trade Geeks community, or email us at simplytrade@globaltrainingcenter.com.
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] Dancing With Our Hands Tied

How Data Gaps Are Reshaping Trade Enforcement
Host: Cindy AllenPublished: August 22, 2025Length: ~20 minutesPresented by: Global Training Center
In this week’s episode, Cindy Allen — the Taylor Swift of Trade — takes on one of her favorite Reputation-era tracks, Dancing With Our Hands Tied, to unpack the unseen world of data flows between trade and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
From new Section 232 tariffs to the end of de minimis and the shift to consolidated entries, Cindy explains why brokers, importers, and CBP alike may feel like they’re “dancing with their hands tied” as vital data disappears from the targeting system.
This episode goes behind the scenes of CBP’s systems — ACE, AMS, ABI, ISF, ACAS — and explains why the current rules are creating blind spots, compliance headaches, and risks for global traders.
🧠 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
🏭 Section 232 Update – 400+ new tariff numbers added, including unexpected HTS lines tied to packaging
🚗 EU Trade Deal Rumblings – Automotive tariffs under review, with possible retroactive relief
📦 De Minimis Fallout – Why companies are moving shipments into Foreign Trade Zones and bonded warehouses
🔍 CBP Data Blind Spots – How the move from Type 86 to standard 01 entries reduces consignee-level visibility
🖥️ ACE & Targeting Explained – The difference between manifest-level data vs. entry summary data
✈️ Security vs. Commercial Data – Why legal firewalls prevent CBP from fully merging security filings with trade enforcement
📉 Operational Risks – Why less package-level data means tougher targeting for CBP and bigger compliance risks for e-commerce players
🔑 Key Takeaways:
Importers and brokers are grappling with confusion around new 232 tariffs on products where aluminum/steel is incidental.
CBP’s targeting system relies heavily on house-level manifest data, and the shift away from Type 86 leaves blind spots.
Foreign Trade Zones and bonded warehouses are becoming popular cost-control strategies in the post-de minimis era.
Understanding how ACE, AMS, ABI, and targeting systems interact is critical for compliance and risk management.
Traders may want to consider voluntary data sharing to maintain smoother targeting outcomes, even if not required.
📌 Resources & Mentions:
Section 232 Federal Register update on tariffs
EU automotive tariff negotiations
CBP guidance on Foreign Trade Zones and bonded warehouses
Background on ACE, AMS, ABI, ISF, and ACAS systems
Legal history on security vs. commercial data firewalls post-9/11
About the Host – Cindy Allen
Known as the “Taylor Swift of Trade,” Cindy Allen brings clarity, edge, and insight to the week’s most pressing trade developments. With decades of experience, she helps industry professionals make sense of the chaos — with a little pop culture flair.  Cindy is CEO of Trade Force Multiplier Follow Cindy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cindy-allen-a3188210/
Subscribe & Follow:
New episodes every FridayFollow us on LinkedIn, LinkedIn (GTC), YouTube, Spotify, or Apple PodcastsDon’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

Unicorn Bonds and Rising Risks: What Importers Need to Know About Customs Bonds with Jason Wieselman

Hosts: Lalo Solorzano & Andy ShilesGuest: Jason Weiselman, International Bond & MarinePublished: August 13, 2025Length: ~42 minutesPresented by: Global Training Center
When Bonds Become Billion-Dollar News
Bonds may not be glamorous, but they’re the backbone of trade. In this episode, Lalo and Andy sit down with Jason Wieselman of International Bond & Marine to unpack why customs bonds are suddenly front-page news — and what every importer needs to know to keep shipments moving.
With tariffs surging and de minimis rules shifting, importers are facing unprecedented bond requirements — in some cases reaching hundreds of millions or even a billion dollars. Jason explains what this means for both large and small importers, why sureties are more involved than ever, and how logistics professionals can navigate the complexity without grinding their supply chains to a halt.
From errors & omissions insurance to the rise of the so-called “unicorn bond,” this conversation explores the risks, realities, and strategies every trade nerd should understand in today’s environment.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Why higher tariffs are driving massive increases in bond requirements
How importers can forecast and calculate the right bond amount
What the first billion-dollar bond means for the future of trade
The role of errors & omissions and cyber insurance in compliance today
 Why you shouldn’t blindly accept CBP’s bond letters without running the numbers
Key Takeaways:
Higher tariffs directly impact bond requirements, sometimes by massive amounts.
Importers must calculate bond amounts carefully — don’t just accept CBP’s defaults.
The first billion-dollar bond signals a new era of risk management in trade.
Errors & omissions and cyber insurance are growing priorities for trade professionals.
Sureties and brokers are becoming more like strategic advisors than silent backers.
Resources & Mentions:
International Bond & Marine – Jason Wieselman’s company, specializing in customs bonds & marine insurance
CBP Customs Bonds Guidance – U.S. Customs official page on bond types and requirements
Errors & Omissions Insurance – Investopedia – Overview of E&O coverage for professionals
Cybersecurity & Trade – CISA – U.S. Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency resources
Credits
Hosts:
Lalo Solorzano – LinkedIn
Andy Shiles – LinkedIn
Guest:
Jason Wieselman – LinkedIn
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!
 

[TIPS] Work Sanity: Boundaries, Joy, and Self-Care in Trade Compliance

In this quick-hit Simply Trade [Tips] episode, hosts Renee Chuichiarelli and Julie Parks (“Hammer and Heels”) step back from tariff chaos to focus on something every trade professional needs: work sanity.
Trade never slows down—executive orders, shifting regulations, and the constant demand for answers can drain even the most seasoned compliance pro. Renee and Julie share three practical ways to protect your sanity, keep your energy up, and bring balance back to your daily grind.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Define Your Boundaries – Use tools like Outlook, OneNote, and task managers to prioritize, set limits, and protect your time.
Find Joy Outside Work – Surfing, gardening, creating—whatever gives you peace, schedule it in to recharge.
Take Care of Yourself – Sleep, nutrition, and mindfulness aren’t optional; they’re fuel for staying sharp in high-pressure environments.
Julie’s FIO (Figure It Out)
👉 Choose one action item today:
Block time on your calendar.
Pick one joyful activity outside of work.
Schedule that doctor’s appointment or commit to better sleep/nutrition.
Then share your progress with the community.
Keep the Conversation Going
Join the Trade Geeks Community at Global Training Center and tell Renee & Julie:
Did you set a new boundary?
What’s bringing you joy outside of trade?
How are you taking better care of yourself?
Credits
Hosts: Renee Chiuchiarellihttps://www.linkedin.com/in/renee-chiuchiarelli-lcb-ccs-8964a19/ Julie Parks:https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-ann-parks/ 
Producer: Lalo Solorzanohttps://www.linkedin.com/in/lalosolorzano/
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 on LinkedIn, LinkedIn (GTC), YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts,join the Trade Geeks community, or email us at simplytrade@globaltrainingcenter.com.
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] Breaking Silos: How Networking Transforms Global Trade and Supply Chain

Dive into an insightful conversation with Annik Sobing and Nathan Chaney, supply chain advocate and podcast host, as he reveals how breaking down industry silos can revolutionize global trade. Learn about the critical importance of networking, the evolving landscape of supply chain management, and strategies for connecting professionals across different sectors. Discover how innovative platforms like the Global Trade Cafe are transforming professional interactions, bridging gaps between trade compliance, logistics, and supply chain experts. Perfect for entrepreneurs, logistics professionals, and business leaders seeking to understand the power of meaningful professional connections in today's complex global trade environment.Connect with Nathan: website - https://supplychaney.com/ linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/supply-chaney In the midst of all this chaos, education is your best ally. Access Exclusive Resources Here ⏬
Recommended Resources:
Check out our OnDemand Library at GTC! 👀🌎
📺⏰ Learn your own pace wit OnDemand: https://globaltrainingcenter.com/elearning-classes/  👓🧠Surround yourself with other trade professionals: Join our Trade Geeks Community!  https://globaltrainingcenter.com/trade-geeks/ 
 
Connect with Simply Trade Podcast:
- Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdmyGU5foKm4aFlpo7Oms4g
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/simply-trade-podcast/ 
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/SimplyTradePod 
- Website: https://globaltrainingcenter.com/simply-trade-podcast/
 
Contact Us/ Suggest Topics
Contact: SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com
 
Credits:
Host/Producer: Lalo Solorzano: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lalosolorzano/
Co-Producer/Editor: Mara Marquez: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maramarquez85/
Host: Annik Sobing - https://www.linkedin.com/in/annik-sobing-mba-b226251a2/ 

[Cindy's Version] The Life of a Trade Girl: Look What You Made Me Do

From Port Fees to Boycotts — Trade’s “Look What You Made Me Do” Moment
Host: Cindy AllenPublished: August 15, 2025Length: ~25 minutesPresented by: Global Training Center
This week, Cindy Allen — the Taylor Swift of Trade — takes inspiration from Taylor’s hit Look What You Made Me Do to unpack the global ripple effects of new U.S. trade policies. From Canadian boycotts to rerouted shipping lanes, canceled farm contracts, and the e-commerce shake-up, Cindy explains how global players are reshaping trade routes and relationships to avoid U.S. tariffs.
The result? A landscape where “look what you made me do” is more than a lyric — it’s the world’s response to American trade policy.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Port Fees & Rerouting – Why OOCL and other carriers are bypassing U.S. ports
Canada’s Workarounds – New trade agreements that sidestep the U.S., and the impact on U.S. brands
Tourism Declines – 33% drop from Canadian visitors, $29B hit to the economy
India’s 50% Tariffs – How boycotts and shifting consumer sentiment are changing market access
Farm Fallout – Canceled China soybean contracts, reduced crop insurance, and frozen subsidies
Automotive Industry Pressure – Sliding profits tied to 232 and reciprocal tariffs
Swiss Surprise – 39% reciprocal tariff and the pharmaceutical implications
E-Commerce Under Pressure – End of de minimis and CBP’s visibility challenges
Key Takeaways:
Trade partners are actively bypassing the U.S. through alternative agreements and routes.
U.S. brands face boycotts and sales drops in Canada and India.
Agricultural exports are hit hard by contract cancellations and market shifts.
The end of de minimis changes how CBP sees — or doesn’t see — package-level data.
Some companies are adopting a “wait and see” approach rather than immediate supply chain overhauls.
📌 Resources & Mentions:
USTR port fee announcement
Forbes article on tourism losses
Canadian provincial alcohol boycotts
CBP de minimis clearance rules & deadlines
Agricultural trade data and USAID policy changes
About the Host – Cindy Allen
Known as the “Taylor Swift of Trade,” Cindy Allen brings clarity, edge, and insight to the week’s most pressing trade developments. With decades of experience, she helps industry professionals make sense of the chaos — with a little pop culture flair.  Follow Cindy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cindy-allen-a3188210/
Subscribe & Follow:
New episodes every FridayFollow us on LinkedIn, LinkedIn (GTC), YouTube, Spotify, or Apple PodcastsDon’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
 

How Trade Associations Really Work For Professionals - Kristi App

In the Simply Trade Podcast episode, Lalo discusses the impact of recent trade policies and tariffs with Kristi App, Vice President of the NCBFAA, Board of Directors and COO of JW Allen. Christy highlights the challenges faced by small to medium-sized importers and exporters due to rapid policy changes and the importance of strategic shipping and trade zones. She also emphasizes the role of NCBFAA in lobbying for the industry and the collaboration with Canadian and Mexican customs brokers through the North American Customs Brokers Alliance. Christy shares her pride in women's leadership roles in trade and the importance of staying informed and adaptable in the current trade environment.
 
Kristi App: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristi-app-15820117/
 
Business Strategy
Explore Foreign Trade Zones to manage tariffs
Be strategic about shipping timing
Understand legal ways to optimize trade classifications
Small businesses must be proactive in trade management
Industry Collaboration
Trade professionals are stronger together
Maintain open communication with government agencies
North American trade associations increasingly collaborate
Leverage professional networks for support and information
Women in Leadership
More women rising to leadership positions in trade
Breaking historical industry barriers
Importance of supportive mentorship
Demonstrate expertise without demanding respect
Trade Policy Challenges
Current trade environment is unpredictable
Rapid policy changes create significant uncertainty
Customs brokers and programmers working overtime
Lack of clear guidance is a major industry frustration
Professional Philosophy
"Make Trade Boring Again" - desire for predictability
Continuous learning is critical
Maintain integrity and compliance
Adapt quickly to changing regulations
In the midst of all this chaos, education is your best ally. Access Exclusive Resources Here ⏬ 
 Recommended Resources: Check out our OnDemand Library at GTC! 👀🌎 
📺⏰ Learn your own pace wit OnDemand: https://globaltrainingcenter.com/elearning-classes/   
👓🧠Surround yourself with other trade professionals: Join our Trade Geeks Community!  https://globaltrainingcenter.com/trade-geeks/ 
 
Connect with Simply Trade Podcast:
- Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdmyGU5foKm4aFlpo7Oms4g
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/simply-trade-podcast/ 
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/SimplyTradePod 
- Website: https://globaltrainingcenter.com/simply-trade-podcast/
 
Contact Us/ Suggest Topics
Contact: SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com
 
Credits:
Host/Producer: Lalo Solorzano: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lalosolorzano/
Co-Producer/Editor: Mara Marquez: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maramarquez85/

[TIPS] 4 Strategic Steps for Tariff Chaos

Welcome to Simply Trade Tips! In this episode, trade experts Renee Chuichiarelli and Julie Parks break down the overwhelming world of tariffs and regulations into four actionable steps. Join us as we transform trade chaos into clear, manageable insights – your roadmap to smarter, more confident global trading starts here!Our TIPS duo:Renee: https://www.linkedin.com/in/renee-chiuchiarelli-lcb-ccs-8964a19/ Julie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-ann-parks/ 
In the midst of all this chaos, education is your best ally. Access Exclusive Resources Here ⏬ 
 Recommended Resources: Check out our OnDemand Library at GTC! 👀🌎 
📺⏰ Learn your own pace wit OnDemand: https://globaltrainingcenter.com/elearning-classes/   
👓🧠Surround yourself with other trade professionals: Join our Trade Geeks Community!  https://globaltrainingcenter.com/trade-geeks/ 
 
Connect with Simply Trade Podcast:
Credits
Hosts: Renee Chiuchiarellihttps://www.linkedin.com/in/renee-chiuchiarelli-lcb-ccs-8964a19/ Julie Parks:https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-ann-parks/ 
Producer: Lalo Solorzanohttps://www.linkedin.com/in/lalosolorzano/
Co-Producer/Editor: Mara Marquez: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maramarquez85/
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 on LinkedIn, LinkedIn (GTC), YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts,join the Trade Geeks community, or email us at simplytrade@globaltrainingcenter.com.
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] Transshipment, Liquidation, and the Escalating Trade Enforcement Era - Jen Diaz

Welcome to this week's trade ROUNDUP. Annik and Jen Diaz discuss the impact of tariffs and enforcement actions at the GTE conference. Jen highlights the aggressive enforcement by customs, moving from requests for information to immediate actions and investigations. She emphasizes the importance of compliance and the potential for litigation, predicting the Supreme Court will likely side with the administration. Jen advises importers to monitor liquidations, file protective protests, and ensure correct valuation and classification. She also warns of increased scrutiny on transshipment and fraudulent practices, urging importers to proactively manage their tariff obligations and stay updated with regulatory changes.Jen's contact: https://diaztradelaw.com/meet-the-team/attorneys/jennifer-diaz/
In the midst of all this chaos, education is your best ally. Access Exclusive Resources Here ⏬
Recommended Resources: Check out our OnDemand Library at GTC! 👀🌎 
📺⏰ Learn your own pace wit OnDemand: https://globaltrainingcenter.com/elearning-classes/   
👓🧠Surround yourself with other trade professionals: Join our Trade Geeks Community!  https://globaltrainingcenter.com/trade-geeks/ 
 
Connect with Simply Trade Podcast:
- Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdmyGU5foKm4aFlpo7Oms4g
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/simply-trade-podcast/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/SimplyTradePod
- Website: https://globaltrainingcenter.com/simply-trade-podcast/
 
Contact Us/ Suggest Topics
Contact: SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com
 
Credits:
Host/Producer: Lalo Solorzano: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lalosolorzano/
Co-Producer/Editor: Mara Marquez: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maramarquez85/
Host: Annik Sobing - https://www.linkedin.com/in/annik-sobing-mba-b226251a2/