Simply Trade

Global Training Center

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!

  1. 9 HR AGO

    [Cindy's Version] The Story of Us: Tariff Changes, CAPE Confusion, and Waiting for Answers

    Host: Cindy Allen Show: Simply Trade – Cindy’s Version Published: April 9, 2026 Length: ~16 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center The Story of Us: Tariff Changes, CAPE Confusion, and the Trade Community Waiting for Answers Cindy Allen returns with a wide-ranging trade update set to Taylor Swift’s “The Story of Us,” using the song’s theme of miscommunication to frame the current disconnect between CBP, the courts, and the trade community. From a new DHS funding update and fresh uncertainty around tariffs and valuation to the evolving CAPE refund process and the latest questions around customs business, this episode captures a moment where the trade world is working hard to keep up with fast-moving policy changes. What You’ll Learn in This Episode DHS and trade funding DHS remains largely unfunded, although TSA funding has now passed and some CBP officers remain funded under prior legislation. Many trade-related staff are still working without pay, and the shutdown pressure has now stretched beyond a month. Last sale and valuation debate Congress is still considering the last sale bill, which could eliminate last sale as a valuation method. Cindy explains that last sale has long been treated as part of the broader transaction value framework and is supported by court history, but Congress can still change the law if it chooses. White House tariff threats The White House floated 50% duties on countries that sell weapons to Iran, though Cindy questions what legal authority could support that now that IEEPA has been ruled unlawful. For China, the government could potentially revise Section 301 tariffs, but for other countries, the implementation path is unclear. Forced labor enforcement The Labor Department announced a new tool for assessing foreign forced labor practices, but details were sparse. Cindy notes that CBP already has a strong forced labor framework and suggests the Labor Department may be stepping into a larger detection/enforcement role. WTO criticism from USTR U.S. Trade Representative Jameson Greer published an op-ed criticizing the World Trade Organization, signaling frustration with its current effectiveness and casting doubt on the U.S. role going forward. Cindy highlights this as another sign that global trade institutions may be under pressure to prove relevance. 232 updates now in effect The recent steel and aluminum 232 changes took effect on April 6. Cindy notes that the system seems to be running smoothly, with de minimis treatment for some shipments under 15%, reduced or removed tariff coverage for certain HDS annex items, and new component-level classifications that reduce ambiguity even if the tariff burden remains high. CBP also released guidance on April 3, which importers subject to 232 should review carefully. USMCA remains strained USMCA negotiations continue, but Cindy says they are tense and may not conclude by the July 1 deadline. Despite frustration and mixed positions among the three governments, she notes the agreement still matters for North American production and U.S. manufacturing support. Customs business ruling and trade tech A recent customs business ruling has created concern among AI and trade tech companies, especially around whether certain activities now require a licensed customs broker. Cindy explains that the issue muddies the water for brokers, tech providers, and importers alike and will likely require clarification from CBP. ACE portal account requirement CBP has rolled out a new ACE portal account application process. Importers seeking refunds now need an ACE Portal account, and Cindy recommends checking CBP’s site or speaking with a broker to understand the new application process. Strait of Hormuz and market impact The war with Iran is paused for two weeks, but a reported $2 million vessel toll for safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz is raising alarms. Cindy also points to Bloomberg reporting that some Asian factories are seeing 55% price increases on plastics, showing how oil transit issues ripple into fertilizers, plastics, diesel, and broader market volatility. CAPE and “The Story of Us” Cindy says she chose “The Story of Us” because the song reflects the miscommunication and silence she sees between CBP, the courts, and the trade community. The CAPE process is still being built, and while CBP has filed detailed updates with the court, the real uncertainty is how the court will interpret those filings and what rules will ultimately apply to importers. The biggest unresolved questions remain whether finally liquidated entries will be included, whether protests or court actions will be required, and how refund filings will ultimately work. Cindy notes that the lead case changed from Artemis to a new test case after Artemis withdrew, meaning the court started over with new orders and the process remains in motion. Subscribe & Follow New episodes every Friday. Presented by Global Training Center • Global Training Center on LinkedIn • YouTube • Spotify • Apple Podcasts • Trade Geeks Community

    16 min

  2. 22 HR AGO

    What Importers Tend to Get Wrong About Importing

    Importing isn’t as simple as buying a product overseas and having it show up at your door. In this episode of Simply Trade, Lalo Solorzano and Andy Shiles break down three of the most common (and costly) assumptions business owners make about importing—and how those mistakes can quietly erode margins, create compliance risk, and lead to serious problems with U.S. Customs. If you’re importing—or thinking about it—this is a must-listen. 📌 What You’ll Learn Why your supplier is not responsible for your compliance How duty rates have shifted from predictable to volatile The real role of a customs broker (and what they don’t own) Why bad data = compliant filings… that are still wrong How small mistakes can turn into costly enforcement issues 🔑 Key Takeaways 1. Your Supplier Does NOT Handle Everything Many importers assume their overseas supplier manages the process. Reality: The supplier’s priority is getting paid You are the Importer of Record You are accountable to U.S. Customs and Border Protection If documentation is wrong—valuation, country of origin, product description—you own the consequences. “Your supplier may ship the goods—but you own the risk.” 2. Duties Are No Longer Predictable What used to be a stable, forecastable cost is now a moving target. Tariffs and trade policies change rapidly Sourcing decisions directly impact duty exposure Long purchasing cycles increase risk “Duty used to be a line item. Now it’s a variable you have to actively manage.” 3. Compliance Is NOT Your Broker’s Job Hiring a broker does not transfer liability. Brokers file based on the data you provide They facilitate compliance—but don’t own it Incorrect data = correctly filed… but still wrong “Customs holds the importer accountable—not the broker.” ⚠️ Real-World Risk Even when no one is trying to cut corners: Miscommunication with suppliers Last-minute product changes Incorrect documentation …can result in: Shipment delays Exams or holds Seizures Long-term compliance issues 🧠 The Bigger Insight All three mistakes come down to one thing: 👉 Misunderstanding responsibility Importing is not passive. The companies that succeed: Maintain internal oversight Understand classification and documentation Treat trade as a controlled process—not a transaction 🎯 Who This Episode Is For Business owners importing goods E-commerce sellers sourcing overseas Small to mid-size importers Anyone new to international trade 📣 Mentioned in This Episode National Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association of America (NCBFAA Conference) U.S. Customs and Border Protection Credits Hosts: Lalo Solorzano Andy Shiles Guests: Anand Raghavendran – KYG Trade Gagan Bhasin – VAO Produced by: Global Training Center 📢 Subscribe & Follow Stay connected with the Simply Trade community and never miss an episode that helps you trade smarter. 🎧 Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube 💬 Connect with us: Simply Trade on LinkedIn Global Training Center on LinkedIn Trade Geeks Community

    25 min

  3. 2 DAYS AGO

    [TIPS] From Tactical to Strategic: How to Build a Mature Trade Organization

    Hosts Renee Chiuchiarelli Julie Parks Published April 2026 Episode Length ~10 minutes 🎯 Episode Summary In this episode of Simply Trade Tips: Hammer & Heels, Renee and Julie continue their Tactical vs. Strategic series by focusing on the how. If the last episode defined the difference… this one answers the real question: 👉 How do you actually build a more strategic, mature trade organization? From stabilizing operations to introducing KPIs and redefining roles, this episode lays out a practical roadmap for evolving beyond reactive, tactical work into a proactive, value-driving function. 🔑 Key Takeaways 1. Start with a Clear End-State Vision Before making changes, define: Your problem statement (e.g., too much manual work, rework, delays) Your future state (automation, efficiency, reduced firefighting) 👉 Clarity drives alignment. 2. Stabilize Your Operations First You can’t build strategy on chaos. Focus on: Clean master data Classification governance Standard broker instructions Documented SOPs (and keep them updated!) Controls to prevent repeat errors 3. Eliminate Manual Work (Quick Wins Matter) Look for opportunities to: Automate screening and validation checks Replace email approvals with system controls Implement exception-based workflows 💡 Small wins create momentum—and buy-in. 4. Define Roles with a RACI Framework Separate tactical vs. strategic responsibilities: Shift transactional work to: Brokers Shared services Create roles focused on: Analytics Optimization Strategy 👉 Not everything belongs in trade. Know your boundaries. 5. Introduce Metrics That Show Value Move beyond activity tracking to impact measurement: Duty savings & cost avoidance Free Trade Agreement utilization (e.g., USMCA) Error rate reduction (first-time accuracy) Cycle time improvements Audit readiness / risk metrics 📊 Measure over time—this is where transformation becomes visible. 6. Think Like a Strategic Leader Strategic trade leaders: Remove roadblocks Translate regulations into business decisions Speak in financial and operational impact Influence sourcing and supply chain early Build dashboards (not just spreadsheets) Design compliance into systems 👉 This is where trade becomes a business driver—not just a function. 7. Use Quick Wins to Drive Change Examples: Eliminate recurring manual tasks Reassign non-trade work (like track & trace) Implement broker scorecards Pilot automation or controls 🎉 And don’t forget to celebrate progress. 💡 FIO (Figure It Out) – This Week’s Challenge Take a step back and assess your organization: List the tasks your team performs Survey how much time is spent on each Identify: % of time spent on tactical vs. strategic work Time spent during shipment vs. pre/post (the “bookends”) 👉 This exercise will reveal your true maturity level—and where to focus next. 💬 Join the Conversation How much of your team’s time is spent firefighting vs. driving strategy? Have you tried a time study or implemented KPIs that changed your organization? 👉 Join the discussion in the Trade Geeks Community and share your FIO! Credits Hosts: Renee Chiuchiarelli https://www.linkedin.com/in/renee-chiuchiarelli-lcb-ccs-8964a19/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast Julie Parks https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-ann-parks/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast Producer: Lalo Solorzano https://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

    13 min

  4. 4 DAYS AGO

    [ICPA] What ICPA Delivers: Connections, Career Boosts, and AI Insights with Benita Lee

    Host: Annik Sobing Guest: Benita Lee, Certified Customs Specialist (U.S. and Canada) Published: April 2026 Length: ~20 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center ICPA After the Conference: Building Community, Sharing Ideas, and Preparing for What’s Next In this post-ICPA conversation, Annik sits down with Benita Lee, an independent consultant and trade compliance strategist, to reflect on the energy, diversity, and value of the ICPA San Antonio conference and why this community continues to matter for trade professionals across import, export, supply chain, and government relations. Together, they talk about how the conference brings together practitioners, legal experts, tech leaders, students, and even investors to share real-world perspectives on tariffs, refunds, AI, and the changing trade landscape. What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why ICPA matters ICPA is more than a conference—it’s a place where trade professionals connect, learn, and build a stronger community. Benita and Annik talk about how the event helps break the isolation many people feel in customs and compliance roles. The San Antonio conference experience This year’s conference was described as the largest and most diverse yet, with strong attendance, active booth traffic, and meaningful conversation across tracks. Attendees included legal counsel, compliance professionals, Big Four alumni, tech-minded practitioners, and newer voices entering the industry. AI and practical use cases A key conference theme was AI in trade compliance, with sessions focused on practical use cases instead of fear-based “replacement” talk. Benita highlights the value of these sessions in showing how AI can support existing work, not eliminate the need for expertise. Student engagement and career development The conference welcomed students and scholarship recipients, reinforcing ICPA’s role in helping the next generation find mentors and learn the trade path. Benita points to sessions like “Advancing Your Career” with Laila Landis as must-see content for both students and experienced professionals. Canada conference perspective The upcoming ICPA Canada conference in June is a different lens on trade, especially given Canada’s export relationship with the U.S. and the current political tension. Benita explains why Canadian practitioners benefit from seeing both the U.S. and Canadian sides of the trade equation and how ICPA helps keep the conversation practical rather than political. Connections and collaboration A recurring theme of the episode is that trade is solved through connections—meeting the right people, asking questions, and finding the experts who can help. Benita emphasizes that ICPA makes it easy to engage, network, and find mentors, which can dramatically shorten the learning curve in your career. Upcoming ICPA Events Mentioned ICPA Canada: June 7–9, 2026. ICPA Dresden: April 8–10, 2026. ICPA Grapevine, Texas: September 13–15, 2026 Listen & Subscribe Simply Trade main page: https://simplytrade.podbean.com Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/simply-trade/id1640329690 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/09m199JO6fuNumbcrHTkGq Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/8de7d7fa-38e0-41b2-bad3-b8a3c5dc4cda/simply-trade Connect with Simply Trade Podcast page: https://www.globaltrainingcenter.com/simply-trade-podcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/simply-trade-podcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SimplyTradePod Join the Trade Geeks Community Trade Geeks (by Global Training Center): https://globaltrainingcenter.com/trade-geeks/

    18 min

  5. 3 APR

    [Cindy's Version] Begin Again: Refunds are coming, but so are 100% Tariffs

    Host: Cindy Allen Published: April 3, 2026 Length: ~15 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center Summary In this week’s episode of Simply Trade: Cindy’s Version, Cindy Allen breaks down a major shift in trade operations as CBP moves closer to launching the CAPE system for IEEPA duty refunds—while at the same time, new Section 232 actions signal that trade enforcement is far from slowing down. CBP has indicated it is on track for an April 20 rollout of CAPE, with key components nearing completion. However, Phase 1 will only cover certain entries, leaving many importers navigating critical decisions around protests and timing. At the same time, new developments in pharmaceutical tariffs and steel and aluminum revisions suggest that, despite recent legal challenges, trade enforcement is evolving—not retreating. Inspired by Taylor Swift’s Begin Again, Cindy walks through why this moment feels less like closure—and more like the start of a new phase in global trade compliance. This Week in Trade • CBP signals April 20 target for CAPE rollout tied to IEEPA refunds • Phase 1 expected to cover ~63% of entries, excluding many already liquidated cases • Judge highlights importers’ right to file protests, raising strategic considerations • Strait of Hormuz disruptions continue to create supply chain uncertainty • No movement on key legislation including First Sale and Foreign Importer of Record rules IEEPA Refunds & CAPE: Where Things Stand CBP continues to make progress toward launching CAPE (Consolidated Administration and Processing of Entries): • Claim portal (~85% complete) • Mass processing of entries (~60% complete) • Review and liquidation (~80% complete) • Refund processing (~75% complete) Phase 1 will: • Focus on unliquidated entries and those within voluntary reliquidation windows • Exclude fully liquidated entries, protests, drawback, and certain AD/CVD cases ⏱️ Timeline: • Target launch: ~April 20 • Estimated processing: up to 45 days post-launch Section 232: We’re “Beginning Again” This week brought significant new developments under Section 232: Pharmaceutical Tariffs • 100% duty on name-brand pharmaceuticals • Generics excluded • Implementation expected within 180 days Key complexity: • Importers must now identify brand vs. generic at entry • Multiple exemptions and reduced rates tied to reshoring and trade agreements Steel & Aluminum Updates • 50% duty remains for core steel/aluminum products • 25% duty on derivative products (full value) • New de minimis exemption for products with 15% steel/aluminum by weight These updates simplify some calculations—but may increase duty exposure for many importers. Key Takeaways • CAPE is progressing—but refunds will be phased and complex • Importers should evaluate protest strategies carefully • Trade enforcement is not slowing—it’s resetting and expanding • Section 232 is entering a new operational phase • Compliance will require more detailed product-level data than ever before Resources & Mentions • Global Training Center • Cindy Allen – LinkedIn • Global Training Center • Global Training Center on LinkedIn • YouTube • Spotify • Apple Podcasts • Trade Geeks Community

    19 min

  6. 2 APR

    [Canada] – Navigating Supply Chain Disruption, Infrastructure Shifts, and Trade Uncertainty

    Host: Warrington Ellacott Guest: David A. Johnston Published: April 1, 2026 Length: ~20 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center 🌍 Adapting to Disruption in a Shifting Trade Landscape In this episode of Simply Trade [Canada], Warrington Ellacott sits down with Dr. David A. Johnston to explore how geopolitical shifts, infrastructure investments, and evolving trade dynamics are reshaping supply chains. From Canada’s renewed focus on nation-building infrastructure to the ongoing uncertainty surrounding USMCA negotiations, this conversation highlights the realities businesses face today—and the strategies they need to stay resilient. Dr. Johnston shares insights from his work at the Schulich School of Business, emphasizing the importance of flexibility, collaboration, and long-term planning in an increasingly volatile global trade environment. 🧠 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: 🌐 How geopolitical risks and policy shifts are disrupting global supply chains 🏗️ What Canada’s major infrastructure investments mean for importers and exporters 🤝 Why communication with supply chain partners is critical during uncertainty 📦 How to think about transportation flexibility, including shifting modes like air, rail, and ocean 📊 Practical ways to manage short-term risk while planning for long-term change 🌎 Why diversification and global market expansion require new logistics strategies 🔑 Key Takeaways: Strong communication with suppliers, carriers, and partners is essential during disruption. Infrastructure investments create long-term opportunities—but won’t solve short-term challenges. Flexibility in transportation modes can keep goods moving, even at higher costs. Businesses should balance immediate risk management with longer-term strategic repositioning. Trade relationships—especially between Canada and the U.S.—remain critical despite uncertainty. Disruption often creates opportunity, particularly in emerging sectors like infrastructure and defense. 📌 Resources & Mentions: George Weston Ltd Centre for Sustainable Supply Chains – Schulich School of Business Master of Supply Chain Management Program – York University Sloan Management Review (2022) – Preparing for Supply Chain Disruptions USMCA / CUSMA Trade Agreement CPTPP (Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership) 🎧 Credits Host: Warrington Ellacott – https://www.linkedin.com/in/warringtonellacott/ Guest: David A. Johnston – https://www.schulich.yorku.ca/faculty-research/george-weston Producer: Lalo Solorzano 📢 Subscribe & Follow New episodes every week. Presented by: Global Training Center — providing education, consulting, workshops, and compliance resources for trade professionals. 👉 https://www.globaltrainingcenter.com Connect with us: https://www.linkedin.com/company/global-training-center https://www.youtube.com/@simplytradepod https://open.spotify.com/show/09m199JO6fuNumbcrHTkGq https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/simply-trade/id1640329690 https://globaltrainingcenter.com/portal/ Don’t forget to rate, review, and share with your fellow trade geeks!

    20 min

  7. 31 MAR

    [TIPS] From Firefighting to Forward Thinking: Shifting Trade from Tactical to Strategic

    Hosts: Renee Chiuchiarelli & Julie Parks Published: March 31, 2026 Length: ~10 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center 🎧 Episode Summary In this episode, Renee and Julie kick off a new series focused on a critical evolution in global trade: 👉 How do you shift your team from tactical execution to strategic impact? Most trade teams are buried in transactions—processing entries, fixing data, responding to audits. But today’s environment demands more. The question is no longer: “Are we processing trade?” It’s: “Are we leading it?” This episode breaks down the difference between tactical vs. strategic work, why teams get stuck, and what’s at risk if you don’t evolve. 🔑 Key Takeaways 1. Tactical Work = Necessary, But Reactive Tactical work keeps the business moving—but it’s often: Transaction-focused Time-sensitive Manual and repetitive Reactive and firefighting Examples include: Entry processing Data corrections Broker email back-and-forth Audit scrambling Manual screening and rework 👉 It’s essential—but it won’t move your organization forward. 2. Strategic Work = Value Creation Strategic trade work is where real impact happens. It includes: Tariff mitigation strategies Country of origin and sourcing optimization Trade analytics and risk pattern identification Broker governance and performance management Automation and control design Characteristics of strategic teams: ✔ Proactive ✔ Data-driven ✔ Cross-functional ✔ Focused on financial and operational outcomes 3. Today’s Reality: You Need Both This isn’t an either/or conversation anymore. 👉 The current trade environment demands: Tactical excellence and Strategic leadership As Renee highlights, even seasoned leaders are being pulled back into the details—while tactical teams are being asked to think more strategically. 4. Why Teams Get Stuck in Tactical Mode Common reasons include: Understaffing Constant operational pressure Poor data quality Lack of documented processes Over-reliance on email and tribal knowledge Leadership viewing trade as purely transactional No KPIs tied to value creation 5. The Risk of Staying Tactical If your team never evolves: Errors repeat and expand during audits Duty savings opportunities are missed Regulatory changes outpace your response Burnout and turnover increase Trade gets excluded from strategic planning 👉 You become a cost center… instead of a strategic partner. 🚀 Figure It Out (FIO) – This Week’s Action Before you can evolve, you need visibility. 👉 Track where your team is spending time. List out current activities and projects Categorize them: Tactical Strategic Identify where the majority of time is going 🎯 This becomes your baseline for the rest of the series. 💬 Join the Conversation Where does your team spend most of its time today? 🔥 Firefighting? 📊 Strategy? ⚖️ A mix of both? 👉 Head over to the Trade Geeks community and share your breakdown—and let’s compare notes. Credits Hosts: Renee Chiuchiarelli Julie Parks Producer: Lalo Solorzano 🎧 Subscribe & Follow New TIPS episodes every Tuesday. Presented by: Global Training Center — education, consulting, workshops & 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 & share with your fellow trade geeks! 🎙️ Want to Be on the Show or Have Topic Suggestions? 📧 SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com 🐦 Twitter/X: @SimplyTradePod

    9 min

  8. 30 MAR

    [ROUNDUP] Long-Term Thinking in a Short-Term World: A CEO’s View on Growth and Culture with Chris Bachinski

    Host: Annik Sobing Guest: Chris Bachinnski, Co‑CEO & President, GHY International Published: March 2026 Length: ~35 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center Annik sits down with Chris Bachinnski, Co‑CEO and President of GHY International, for a leadership‑focused conversation on what it really takes to build and sustain a customs brokerage and trade business in a volatile, tech‑driven environment. Starting from sweeping floors in his dad’s trucking company at age 12 to leading a 100+ year‑old firm, Chris shares how work ethic, curiosity, and culture have shaped his career across transportation, marketing, and now trade. What You’ll Learn in This Episode Chris’s unconventional path to trade Grew up in trucking, bought his dad’s company in his 20s, then sold into a publicly traded roll‑up and learned the pros/cons of “quarterly mindset.” Shifted into a small marketing agency as CFO/COO, where he discovered the tight link between brand and culture and began doing leadership/culture training for clients. GHY first hired his firm for branding and leadership work; later, owner Rick Reeseinvited him in as President specifically for his leadership and culture skills, not customs expertise. Designing and changing culture on purpose Chris interviewed all 105 GHY associates in his first 6–7 months just to listen, then worked with leadership to define: what must never change, what needs to improve, and which behaviors will be tolerated. His core belief: “Culture is the result of the behaviors you permit”—leaders must live values first, then hold people accountable, even when that means making hard calls on long‑tenured but misaligned employees. From operator to enterprise‑level leader With GHY now ~245–250 people, Chris’s CEO coach pushed him to stop being involved in everything and focus on: looking around the corner, aligning the organization, and holding leaders accountable. He still stays grounded by walking the office daily, restarting one‑on‑one interviews with staff after 10 years, and sharing results from his annual leadership feedback survey with the entire company. Leading through uncertainty and mistakes In COVID and the recent tariff/trade waves, GHY leaned into two non‑negotiables: care for people and care for clients, avoiding knee‑jerk layoffs and thinking long‑term even after a “spooked” decision in early 2025. On errors, Chris rejects the “I let people make mistakes so they learn” line as arrogant; instead, he tells the story of a six‑figure error where GHY refused a resignation, treated it as (expensive) education, and moved forward. Advice for aspiring leaders Chris distinguishes between title‑driven leaders and those who see leadership as stewardship: taking what’s been entrusted, making it better, and protecting it for the future. His core advice: cultivate insatiable curiosity, ask lots of questions, seek mentors, practice empathy (especially now, with stressed employees and customers), and avoid short‑term, fear‑based decisions. Tech, AI, and the future of brokerage Chris is candid with his board that technology is the one thing he least wants to under‑estimate; the impact he thought was 5–10 years out is arriving much faster. GHY’s focus: embrace technology plus process improvement not as a headcount weapon, but as a tool to make people better, improve accuracy, and help clients succeed—constantly questioning “we’ve always done it this way.” Credits Host: Annik Sobing Guest: Chris Bachinnski (Co‑CEO & President, GHY International) Producer: Annik Sobing Subscribe & Follow • YouTube • Spotify • Apple Podcasts Join the conversation with fellow trade professionals in the Trade Geeks Community: https://globaltrainingcenter.com/portal/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast

    28 min
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About

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!

Information

  • Creator
    Global Training Center
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    475
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2024 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Simply Trade

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