Simply Trade

Global Training Center
  • 4.6 (22)
  • BUSINESS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

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. 2D AGO

    [Cindy's Version] Are We Out of the Woods Yet in Global Trade?

    Host: Cindy Allen Published: May 15 2026 Length: ~13 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center Are We Out of the Woods Yet? Trade Policy, CAPE Updates, and a Push Toward Normalized Trade In this episode of Simply Trade: Cindy’s Version, Cindy Allen uses Taylor Swift’s “Are We Out of the Woods Yet?” to frame a week full of major trade developments. She covers the ongoing court fight over Section 122 tariffs, the Supreme Court’s ruling on freight broker liability, shifting freight and fuel costs tied to global conflict, and new pressure in USMCA negotiations. The episode also brings encouraging CAPE updates, including refunds reaching importers’ bank accounts, while highlighting the still-busy ACE help desk and the potential scope of phase two. Cindy closes by looking at recent U.S.-China developments and asking whether trade may finally be moving back toward a more stable, predictable path. What You’ll Learn in This Episode Section 122 and court action Cindy explains how the administration is continuing to challenge the court’s ruling on Section 122 tariffs and why a Supreme Court resolution now seems likely. She also notes that CBP’s ability to administer tariffs on an importer-by-importer basis was a major concern in the case. Broker liability and vetting The episode covers the Supreme Court’s unanimous decision in Montgomery v. Caribe Transport 2, which may expose logistics companies and freight brokers to liability for carrier safety issues. Cindy discusses how this is pushing forwarders and associations to rethink vetting and risk management. CAPE progress and phase two There is good news on CAPE: refunds are reportedly hitting bank accounts, and many importers are seeing the process work as intended. Cindy also discusses unresolved questions around reconciliation filings and what might be included in the next phase. Trade policy and pricing pressure The conversation turns to rising transportation costs, changes in ocean and air freight demand, and congressional concern over Mexican produce imports in the USMCA context. Cindy explains how anti-dumping duties and policy shifts are feeding into inflation and trade uncertainty. Are we out of the woods? Cindy uses the song to reflect on whether trade is finally moving toward stability, predictability, and more normalized negotiations. She ends on a hopeful note that the current turbulence may be giving way to a more balanced trade environment. Credits Host: Cindy Allen Presented by: Global Training Center   Subscribe & Follow Stay up to date with the latest in global trade: 🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/09m199JO6fuNumbcrHTkGq?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast 🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/simply-trade/id1640329690?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@simplytradepod?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast 🤝 Connect With Us   Global Training Center: https://www.linkedin.com/company/global-training-center?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast 🎙️ Want to Be on the Show? Have insights on trade compliance, enforcement trends, or real-world execution? Reach out—we’d love to have you on.

    13 min

  2. 3D AGO

    U.S. Trade Trends, Tariffs, and the Shifting Global Supply Chain with Ken Roberts

    Host: Lalo Solorzano and Andy Shiles Guest(s): Ken Roberts Published: May 14, 2026 Length: 58:39 Presented by: Global Training Center Summary In this episode of Simply Trade, Lalo Solorzano and Andy Shiles welcome back trade data expert Ken Roberts of WorldCity for a timely look at the numbers shaping U.S. imports, exports, and global trade strategy. With trade policy, tariffs, supply chain shifts, AI demand, and geopolitical uncertainty all moving at once, Ken helps break down what the latest data is really showing. The conversation covers major changes in U.S. trade flows, including shifts involving China, Mexico, Taiwan, Vietnam, Switzerland, Ireland, and Canada. Ken explains why certain categories, like gold, computers, AI-related hardware, pharmaceuticals, oil, beef, and vehicles, are seeing dramatic swings. He also highlights how front-loading ahead of tariffs, changing sourcing strategies, and evolving global demand are showing up in the numbers. This episode matters because trade data is more than statistics. It is a window into where companies are sourcing, where markets are moving, and how business leaders should think about risk, opportunity, and long-term strategy in a changing global economy. Main Topic / Discussion This episode focuses on current U.S. trade trends and what recent import and export data reveals about the changing global economy. Ken Roberts explains how trade volumes, deficits, product categories, and partner-country rankings are shifting in response to tariffs, AI infrastructure demand, energy markets, pharmaceutical movements, and geopolitical uncertainty. A major theme is the continued reshaping of supply chains away from traditional patterns. China remains a major trade partner, but Ken points to significant declines in certain China-related trade flows, while countries like Mexico, Vietnam, and Taiwan are gaining importance. Taiwan’s growth is tied heavily to computer hardware and AI-related infrastructure, while Mexico continues to play a major role in cross-border trade and manufacturing. The conversation also explores the difference between merchandise trade and services trade, why trade deficits matter, and how U.S. ports, airports, and border crossings are affected by changes in commodity flows. Ken also shares thoughts on the future of USMCA, export market opportunities, and why trade professionals should pay close attention to the data before making assumptions. Key Takeaways • U.S. trade patterns are shifting quickly as tariffs, AI demand, and geopolitical pressures reshape global supply chains. • Mexico remains a critical U.S. trade partner, while Taiwan and Vietnam are gaining importance in specific import categories. • AI infrastructure demand is driving major increases in computer hardware and related imports from Taiwan. • Gold, pharmaceuticals, oil, beef, vehicles, and computer equipment are all showing notable movement in the latest trade data. • China’s role in U.S. trade is changing, with some product categories moving to other countries and new questions emerging around rules of origin. • USMCA remains an important area to watch as companies evaluate sourcing, manufacturing, and North American trade strategy. • Trade data can help businesses identify risks, spot market opportunities, and make more informed decisions about sourcing and exports. Resources & Mentions • Global Training Center • WorldCity / U.S. Trade Numbers Credits Host: Lalo Solorzano – LinkedIn Andy Shiles – LinkedIn Guest(s): Ken Roberts – LinkedIn Producer: Lalo Solorzano 📢 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 • Global Training Center • Trade Geeks Community Don’t forget to rate, review, and share with your fellow trade geeks! Want to be on the show or have topic suggestions? SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com

    59 min

  3. 4D AGO

    [TIPS] Why DDP Can Create Hidden Import Risk

    Host: Lalo Solorzano and Trudy Wilson Published: May 13, 2026 Length: 13:22 Presented by: Global Training Center Summary In this episode of Simply Trade, Lalo Solorzano welcomes back Trudy Wilson for another round of Trudy’s Trade Tips, continuing the conversation on Incoterms that deserve extra caution. After previously covering Ex Works, Trudy turns to the opposite end of the spectrum: DDP, or Delivered Duty Paid. At first glance, DDP can sound like the easiest option for buyers because the seller appears to handle everything. But as Trudy explains, that convenience can come with serious compliance risk. Whether you are the seller taking responsibility for import requirements in another country, or the buyer relying on a foreign supplier to correctly manage customs clearance, DDP can create unexpected exposure. The discussion breaks down why importers must stay alert to documentation, classification, tariffs, antidumping and countervailing duties, broker setup, and country-specific import rules. Trudy also explains why sales teams may love DDP from a customer service perspective, but compliance teams should take a closer look before agreeing to it. This episode matters because Incoterms are not just shipping terms. They affect cost, risk, responsibility, and compliance exposure. Main Topic / Discussion This episode focuses on the risks of using DDP, Delivered Duty Paid, in international transactions. Trudy explains that DDP places maximum responsibility on the seller, including transportation, costs, risk, and import compliance into the destination country. For sellers, DDP may mean taking on import obligations in a country where they may not understand the rules or may not even be legally permitted to act as the importer. For buyers, DDP may seem convenient, but it can create risk when a supplier misclassifies goods, undervalues shipments, fails to account for tariffs, or does not properly set up broker authority. Trudy also emphasizes that companies should not assume a freight forwarder or broker has the same capabilities in every country. Service provider coverage, local representation, and destination-country expertise are essential when considering any complex import transaction. The episode closes with a practical reminder: companies can often simplify Incoterm decisions by focusing on a smaller group of more practical terms, while still getting proper training before applying them. Key Takeaways • DDP may sound convenient, but it can create major compliance exposure for both buyers and sellers. • Sellers using DDP may become responsible for import rules and requirements in the destination country. • Some countries do not allow foreign entities to complete DDP transactions unless they have the proper local presence. • Buyers should not assume a supplier will correctly manage classification, valuation, tariffs, or duty requirements. • Even if a buyer is listed only as the ultimate consignee, they may still be tied to the import transaction. • Companies should verify broker setup, documentation, data elements, and service provider capabilities before agreeing to DDP. • Trudy recommends staying away from DDP whenever possible and focusing on more practical Incoterms when appropriate. Resources & Mentions • Global Training Center • TruTrade Solutions Credits Host: Lalo Solorzano – LinkedIn Trudy Wilson – LinkedIn   Producer: Lalo Solorzano 📢 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 • Global Training Center • Trade Geeks Community Don’t forget to rate, review, and share with your fellow trade geeks! Want to be on the show or have topic suggestions? SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com

    14 min

  4. 6D AGO

    [ROUNDUP] Building a Career Through Opportunity and Resilience with Laura DiBella, Chairman at the Federal Maritime Commission

    Host: Annik Sobing Guest: Laura DiBella, Chair, Federal Maritime Commission Published: May 2026 Length: ~27 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center From Resilience to Maritime Leadership Annik Sobing sits down with Laura DiBella for a deeply personal and inspiring conversation about leadership, resilience, and the path that brought her to the Federal Maritime Commission. Laura shares how her upbringing as a first-generation American, her family’s financial hardships, and the loss of her brother shaped her values and her drive to serve. The conversation also explores her career journey through real estate, economic development, ports, and maritime leadership, as well as what the industry needs now to move forward with clarity and support. Who This Episode Is Valuable For This episode is especially valuable for young professionals who are still figuring out their path and want to hear how resilience, adaptability, and being open to unexpected opportunities can shape a career. Laura’s story is also meaningful for leaders in her position or anyone at a senior level, because it offers a reminder of where they came from and how personal experience can influence the way they lead, serve, and make decisions.   What You’ll Learn in This Episode Laura’s early life Laura talks about her Sicilian family background, the example her parents set, and how watching her father build a business from nothing shaped her understanding of hard work and perseverance. She also opens up about the hardships her family faced during the early 1990s recession. How adversity shaped her path The episode explores how personal loss and financial instability influenced Laura’s outlook on life and service. She explains how running, school, and later work became ways to channel that energy into something productive and meaningful. Career growth across industries Laura traces her path from real estate into economic development, then into port leadership, maritime work, and ultimately her current role at the FMC. Her story shows how one opportunity can lead naturally into the next when you stay open to learning and growth. What maritime needs now Laura gives a clear message that the maritime industry needs coordinated support, policy clarity, and real follow-through. She emphasizes that maritime priorities should not be stalled by politics and need urgent attention because of their impact on economic and national security. Why her story resonates The conversation is honest, thoughtful, and personal, making it one of the most memorable episodes of the show. Laura’s openness about her past and her willingness to keep showing up for the industry make this a powerful listen for anyone in trade or logistics. Credits Host: Annik Sobing Guest: Laura DiBella Presented 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 • Global Training Center • Trade Geeks Community Don’t forget to rate, review, and share with your fellow trade geeks! Want to be on the show or have topic suggestions? SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com

    27 min

  5. MAY 8

    [Cindy's Version] It's time to go (Back To a Traditional Trade Process)

    Host: Cindy Allen Published: May 2026 Length: ~12 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center It’s Time to Go: Refunds, Trade Policy, and What Comes Next In this episode of Simply Trade: Cindy’s Version, Cindy Allen walks listeners through a busy week in international trade while using Taylor Swift’s “It’s Time to Go” as the theme. She covers the latest Court of International Trade ruling on Section 122, the ongoing CAPE refund process, Section 301 hearings, possible changes to Section 232 tariffs, and new concerns around CPSC data requirements. The episode also touches on fraud prevention, ACE help desk issues, and why it may be time to return to more traditional trade processes with clearer timelines and checks and balances. What You’ll Learn in This Episode Court and tariff updates Cindy explains the recent CIT ruling on Section 122 and how it may affect future trade actions. She also discusses the possibility of further appeals and what that could mean for importers. CAPE refund progress The episode shares encouraging news that CAPE refunds are reportedly hitting bank accounts. Cindy also covers the 45-day review window and the safeguards CBP is using to catch duplicate or mistaken filings. Fraud and cybersecurity concerns Cindy highlights CBP’s webinar and CSMS update about fraud in the CAPE process, including the need to verify bank details and watch for duplicate filings. She notes that many of the problems CBP is seeing are clerical or procedural rather than outright fraud. New compliance pressure The conversation shifts to the upcoming CPSC data requirements and why many importers may not yet be prepared. Cindy explains that the timeline is tight and that companies should work closely with brokers to get ahead of the new filing expectations. Why “It’s Time to Go” fits Cindy uses the Taylor Swift song to reflect the need to move away from overly novel tariff approaches and back toward more traditional trade processes. Her message is that trade needs time, structure, and predictability in order to plan and adjust effectively. Credits Host: Cindy Allen Presented by: Global Training Center Subscribe & Follow Stay up to date with the latest in global trade: 🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/09m199JO6fuNumbcrHTkGq?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast 🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/simply-trade/id1640329690?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@simplytradepod?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast 🤝 Connect With Us   Global Training Center: https://www.linkedin.com/company/global-training-center?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast 🎙️ Want to Be on the Show? Have insights on trade compliance, enforcement trends, or real-world execution? Reach out—we’d love to have you on.

    13 min

  6. MAY 7

    How AI Product Passports Are Changing Trade Compliance; with Evan Smith

    Host: Lalo Solorzano and Andy Shiles Guest(s): Evan Smith Published: May 7, 2026 Length: 43:23 Presented by: Global Training Center Summary Global trade is changing fast, and compliance teams are being asked to do more than ever before. In this episode of Simply Trade, Lalo Solorzano and Andy Shiles welcome back Evan Smith of Altana to discuss how artificial intelligence, supply chain visibility, and product passports are reshaping the way importers, brokers, forwarders, and governments approach trade compliance. Evan explains why traditional customs entry data is no longer enough for today’s regulatory environment, especially as forced labor enforcement, tariff stacking, rules of origin, carbon requirements, and geopolitical risk all demand a deeper understanding of the full value chain. The conversation explores how product passports can help companies move from reactive problem-solving to proactive trade assurance, allowing importers to document, validate, and communicate product and supply chain information before goods arrive at the border. This episode matters because it highlights a major shift: trade compliance is no longer just a back-office function. It is becoming a strategic business capability that can reduce risk, improve speed to market, and create competitive advantage. Transcript source: Main Topic / Discussion The episode focuses on the rise of AI-enabled product passports and how they can help companies manage modern trade compliance challenges. Evan Smith explains how Altana’s technology maps value chain networks, supports regulatory attestations, and helps businesses better understand supplier relationships, origin data, forced labor risk, tariff exposure, USMCA qualification, and other trade requirements. A key theme is the shift from transaction-based compliance to network-based compliance. Instead of relying only on individual customs entries, companies are being encouraged to build a deeper, ongoing view of their products and supply chains. This allows trade teams to identify risk earlier, respond more effectively to government inquiries, and potentially gain trade facilitation benefits through pre-validation and stronger documentation. The discussion also emphasizes leadership’s role in elevating trade compliance across product design, sourcing, procurement, logistics, and overall business strategy. Key Takeaways • Customs authorities are increasingly focused on full supply chain and value chain visibility, not just entry-level transaction data. • Product passports can help importers proactively document product identity, supplier networks, origin details, and compliance evidence. • AI is not replacing trade professionals; it is giving them better tools to manage growing complexity. • Trade compliance should be involved earlier in business decisions, including design, sourcing, procurement, and logistics planning. • Companies that understand and manage their value chain networks can reduce risk, improve clearance outcomes, and create competitive advantage. • Leadership must provide trade teams with the authority, budget, tools, and organizational access needed to respond to today’s trade environment. Resources & Mentions • Global Training Center • Altana Credits Host: Lalo Solorzano – LinkedIn Andy Shiles – LinkedIn Guest(s): Evan Smith – LinkedIn Producer: Lalo Solorzano 📢 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 • Global Training Center • Trade Geeks Community Don’t forget to rate, review, and share with your fellow trade geeks! Want to be on the show or have topic suggestions? SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com

    44 min

  7. MAY 6

    Pete & Cindy Show: An Unfiltered Conversation on Audits, Refunds, and Broker Value

    Host: Cindy Allen - Trade Force Multiplier Guest: Pete Mento, Baker Tilly Published: May 2026 Length: ~42 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center CAPE Audits, Broker Value, and the Real Cost of Recovery Cindy Allen sits down with Pete Mento of Baker Tilly for an unfiltered conversation about CAPE refunds, audits, broker fees, and what importers should really be thinking about as the refund process evolves. Pete shares why importers need to own the accuracy of their data, why audits matter before filing, and why the broker relationship is more important than ever when claims involve tariffs, offsets, and potential corrections. The episode also covers the value of customs brokerage, the debate over fee structures, and the impact of Amazon, reverse logistics, and broader market changes on the future of trade. What You’ll Learn in This Episode CAPE rollout and audit readiness Pete explains why the CAPE system has performed better than many expected and why importers should not assume the filing itself means the hard work is over. He emphasizes that the data behind the filing needs to be accurate before it is uploaded. Importer responsibility A major theme of the conversation is that the importer, not the broker, is ultimately responsible for the information in the entry. Pete and Cindy discuss why internal audits, review of stack orders, and entry-level diligence are essential before requesting a refund. What broker services are worth The episode digs into broker compensation, including the difference between commodity pricing and value-based service. Cindy and Pete discuss when fee structures feel fair, when they do not, and why brokers should be paid for real work and not treated as a free commodity. Software, AI, and audit tools Pete and Cindy also explore the role of software in auditing and why technology can help customs professionals focus on higher-value issues instead of repetitive checks. They compare the evolution of ABI to the current rise of AI and automation in trade. Amazon and the future of logistics The conversation closes with thoughts on Amazon, freight forwarding, and reverse logistics, including how major players are reshaping delivery, returns, and consumer expectations. It’s a forward-looking discussion about where trade and transportation may be headed next. Credits Host: Cindy Allen Guest: Pete Mento Presented by: Global Training Center Subscribe & Follow Stay up to date with the latest in global trade: 🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/09m199JO6fuNumbcrHTkGq?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast 🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/simply-trade/id1640329690?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@simplytradepod?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast 🤝 Connect With Us   Global Training Center: https://www.linkedin.com/company/global-training-center?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast 🎙️ Want to Be on the Show? Have insights on trade compliance, enforcement trends, or real-world execution? Reach out—we’d love to have you on.

    41 min

  8. MAY 5

    [Tips] Incoterms, FOB Confusion, and Why Ex Works May Not Be as Easy as It Looks

    In this episode of Simply Trade, host Lalo Solorzano is joined by Trudy Wilson, longtime Global Training Center instructor and trade compliance expert, for the first installment of what Lalo calls “Trudy’s Trade Tips.” This conversation focuses on a foundational topic that continues to create confusion across import and export teams: Incoterms 2020. Trudy breaks down why companies should not simply default to familiar terms like FOB or Ex Works, especially when containerized freight, export filing, loading responsibility, and risk exposure are involved. Key Takeaways Incoterms are voluntary, but they help buyers and sellers clearly define responsibility. There are 11 Incoterms, but most companies should focus primarily on the 7 “any mode” terms. FOB, CIF, CFR, and FAS are often misused when goods are moving in containers. “Ocean shipment” does not automatically mean one of the ocean-only terms applies. Ex Works may look simple for the seller, but it can create serious compliance and operational risk. Export filing, proof of export, loading responsibility, and product destination still matter. AI and automation can help, but trade professionals still need the foundation to validate results. Featured Discussion Trudy explains why the four sea and inland waterway terms should generally be reserved for goods that are “pumped or dumped” onto a vessel, such as oil, grain, minerals, or ore. For most containerized shipments, even when moving by ocean, companies should usually be evaluating the seven any-mode Incoterms instead. She also cautions against the casual use of Ex Works, reminding exporters that “easy” does not always mean low risk. Memorable Quote “If you don’t have the foundation right, you’re going to have issues with the tariffs anyway.” Hosts Lalo Solorzano Trudy Wilson About Simply Trade Simply Trade is a podcast by Global Training Center, created for trade compliance professionals, importers, exporters, customs brokers, and supply chain leaders who want practical conversations about global trade. 📢 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

    18 min
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4.6
out of 5
22 Ratings

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
    496
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2024 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Simply Trade

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