Simply Trade

Global Training Center
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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. 14H AGO

    [TIPS] Why Your Trade Org Structure Is Breaking Your Compliance Program

    Hosts: Renee Chiuchiarelli & Julie Parks Format: Simply Trade Tips Length: ~12 minutes Episode Summary Renee and Julie break down how organizational structure—centralized, decentralized, matrix, or hybrid—directly impacts compliance success. Learn practical "tweaks" to move customs from a reactive support function to a proactive strategic partner. Key Takeaways & Fixes 1. Centralized Structure The Issue: Customs reacts to problems after decisions are made. The Fix: Embed controls upstream; ensure Customs has authority, not just execution duties. 💡 Truth Bomb: If you touch data after the PO is issued, you’re already too late. 2. Decentralized Structure The Issue: Inconsistent data and fragmented processes across regions. The Fix: Centralize governance and data visibility while allowing regional execution. 💡 Rule: Decentralized execution is fine; decentralized compliance is not. 3. Matrix Structure The Issue: Decision gridlock and competing priorities. The Fix: Define decision-making authority in writing and align funding across stakeholders. 💡 Reality Check: Without alignment, Customs becomes a referee, not a facilitator. 4. Hybrid Structure (The Goal) The Issue: Often misperceived as a cost center rather than a value driver.   The Fix: Separate governance from operations; involve Customs in sourcing and risk-based audits. Failure Patterns to Avoid Compliance fails in any structure when: Authority doesn't match responsibility. Brokers are treated as the "owners" of compliance. Leadership only engages during a crisis. FIO (Figure It Out) – This Week’s Action Identify your current structure and pick one area for improvement. Write it into your goals and align it with business priorities to start seeing incremental change. Hosts: Renee Chiuchiarelli & Julie Parks Published: October 28, 2025 Length: ~10 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center 👻 Episode Summary It’s a special Halloween edition of Simply Trade [Tips] with Hammer and Heels (Renee & Julie)! 🎙️ In this spooky seasonal episode, the hosts share “scary compliance stories” that every trade professional can learn from — tales of audits that wouldn’t die, supply chain skeletons, and hauntingly complex importer-of-record issues. Between these frighteningly true stories and a fun “Trick-or-Treat: Fact or Fiction” lightning round, listeners will pick up valuable lessons about risk, recordkeeping, and compliance best practices — all while getting into the Halloween spirit. 🧠 Key Takeaways Importer of Record Issues: Never assume your company should make entry — confirm the proper party has the right to do so. Audit Nightmares: A prior disclosure can protect you from penalties, but only if it’s complete and accurate. Double-check everything before submitting. Trick or Treat: Compliance Edition! Can CBP review your General Ledger? ✅ Treat! Do you need to reconcile quantity variances with Customs entries? ✅ Treat! Is your broker solely responsible for recordkeeping? ❌ Trick! Importers must maintain their records for at least five years. Is a parts database a strong compliance tool? ✅ Treat! It helps ensure data accuracy and consistency. 🧭 FIO (Figure It Out) 👉 This week’s action item: Trade can be terrifying — but preparation keeps the ghosts away! Take time to review your compliance “skeletons in the closet.” Are your prior disclosures accurate and auditable? Is your importer of record process clear? Do your records meet the five-year rule? And since it’s Halloween… figure out your costume, too! 🎭 💬 Keep the Conversation Going Join the Trade Geeks Community at Global Training Center and share: Your own “scary compliance story.” How you’ve handled tricky audits or importer-of-record nightmares. And, of course, what you’re dressing up as for Halloween! 🎧 Credits Hosts: Renee Chiuchiarelli Julie Parks Producer: Lalo Solorzano 📲 Subscribe & Follow 🎙️ New TIPS episodes every Tuesday. Presented by: Global Training Center — providing education, consulting, workshops, and compliance resources for trade professionals. Connect with us: Simply Trade Podcast on LinkedIn Global Training Center on LinkedIn YouTube Spotify Apple Podcasts Trade Geeks Community Don’t forget to rate, review, and share with your fellow trade geeks! 📩 Want to be on the show or suggest a topic? Email us at SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com or DM us on X/Twitter @SimplyTradePod

    16 min

  2. 1D AGO

    [NCBFAA] Transportation Committee on Strait of Hormuz, FMC, and Shipping Risk in 2026

    Host: Lori Mullins Guests: Rich Roche, Ashley Craig Series: NCBFAA Quarterly Podcast – Transportation Committee Focus Published: March 2026 Length: ~40 minutes Presented by: National Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association of America (NCBFAA) in partnership with Simply Trade​ NCBFAA Transportation Committee: Strait of Hormuz, FMC, and Shipping Risk in 2026 In this NCBFAA quarterly episode, social media director and licensed customs broker Lori Mullins sits down with Rich Roche, Senior Vice President at Mohawk Global Logistics and NCBFAA NVOCC Chair, and Ashley Craig, partner at Venable LLP and outside Transportation Counsel to NCBFAA, for a deep dive on the work of the NCBFAA Transportation Committee in a rapidly changing risk environment.​ The conversation focuses on how the Transportation Committee is engaging with regulators—especially the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC)—and monitoring global chokepoints like the Strait of Hormuz to protect brokers, forwarders, and NVOCCs.​ Inside the NCBFAA Transportation Committee’s Agenda FMC leadership and priorities Rich explains the “new season” at FMC under Chair Laura DiBella, with NCBFAA meeting her on day one and tracking the confirmation of additional commissioners to get the agency to full strength.​ The committee is watching FMC’s expanded role, including analyzing global “choke points” (like the Iran conflict and Spanish embargo actions) and supporting efforts to close the harbor maintenance fee loophole for cargo routed via Canada and Mexico.​ Strait of Hormuz and global chokepoints Ashley breaks down why the Strait of Hormuz—only about 20 nautical miles wide and dominated geographically by Iran—remains one of the most critical choke points in global energy and trade, carrying roughly 60% of petroleum productsexiting the region.​ Rich details current impacts: hundreds of tankers and cargo vessels effectively stopped or trapped, export bookings halted, and knock-on effects on fuel availability for airlines and ocean carriers, particularly in Asia.​ Legal and commercial risk: surcharges, notice, and the Shipping Act Ashley walks through how tensions translate into war risk surcharges and emergency contingency charges from major carriers (Maersk, CMA, Hapag-Lloyd, MSC, ONE), and the critical 30‑day notice requirement under the Shipping Act for U.S. trades—plus how “special permission” filings at the FMC can accelerate those timelines.​ The Transportation Committee is monitoring FMC guidance reminding carriers and NVOCCs of their obligations to publish and adhere to filed rates, and educating members on when to go to FMC vs. resolving disputes under service contracts or through courts/ADR.​ Export controls and NCBFAA’s export subcommittee work Ashley highlights the work of the NCBFAA Export Subcommittee, which sits under the Transportation Committee and has collaborated with BIS on the Freight Forwarder Best Practices (now live on the BIS site).​ The committee is tracking evolving sanctions and export controls on Iran and third‑party intermediaries, stressing regular checks of the U.S. consolidated screening lists and ongoing engagement with BIS, OFAC, and other agencies.​ Insurance, force majeure, and contract readiness From a legal and practical standpoint, Ashley urges members to review war risk underwriting, force majeure language, and service contracts now—especially for cargo stuck in the Gulf region—to avoid unmanaged detention/demurrage and misaligned risk allocation.​ The Transportation Committee is encouraging proactive dialogue with carriers and underwriters, not just reactive claims once disruptions surface.​ Energy markets, surcharges, and downstream costs The episode covers how rising oil prices (already over USD 100/barrel with potential to go higher) drive up bunker costs, trigger higher bunker and emergency surcharges, and ultimately raise total transportation costs for shippers and NVOCC customers.​ Policy horizon: tariffs, ship taxes, and Jones Act talk Ashley notes the administration’s heavy focus on maritime policy, new and potential 232/301 investigations, a 301 forced labor inquiry touching over 60 trading partners, and proposals like a “universal ship tax” and land border fee that NCBFAA and peer associations are actively reviewing.​ The committee is also watching discussions around Jones Act waivers for energy flows and coordinating with other trade associations (NITL, World Shipping Council, NRF, NAM, U.S. Chamber) to present a unified industry position.​ Why This Matters for NCBFAA Members Throughout the episode, Lori, Rich, and Ashley underscore the resilience of the brokerage and forwarding community and the central role of NCBFAA—especially the Transportation Committee and its export subcommittee—in: Interpreting fast‑moving developments at choke points like the Persian Gulf. Engaging directly with FMC, BIS, Treasury, USTR, and Congress. Providing practical guidance on surcharges, notice rules, contracts, underwriting, and compliance expectations.​ Lori closes by inviting non‑members to join NCBFAA and tap into its toolkits, best practices, and ongoing advocacy, and reminding listeners that this is part of a quarterly NCBFAA podcast series focused on the committees’ work on behalf of the trade. Subscribe & Follow Stay connected with the Simply Trade Podcast: Global Training Center LinkedIn YouTube Spotify Apple Podcasts Trade Geeks Community ​

    43 min

  3. 3D AGO

    [ROUNDUP] Trade Recruiting Hacks: Entry-Level to VP with Colleen Erickson

    Host: Annik Sobing Guest: Colleen, Trade Compliance Recruiting Solutions Recorded at: ICPA Conference (in-person) Published: March 2026 Length: ~15 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center Trade Jobs Are Exploding—But Here’s How to Actually Land One (Live from ICPA) Live from ICPA, Annik sits down in-person with recruiting expert Colleen from Trade Compliance Recruiting Solutions—the boutique firm specializing exclusively in trade compliance roles (import/export, brokerage, analyst to VP). They break down the tight talent market, entry-level realities, resume pitfalls, salary trends, and why busy pros aren’t jumping ship lightly. If you’re job hunting, hiring, or just curious about trade career paths—this is your roadmap. What You’ll Learn in This Episode Entry-level truth Skip certifications first (LCB exam, etc.)—companies want hands-on experienceover credentials. Start anywhere (brokerage, import/export sides) to learn processes, then certify. Passion for global trade > classroom knowledge. Mid-career job search toolkit Free resume reviews from Colleen’s team: ATS-proof keywords, quantifiable achievements, consistent formatting—makes your resume “pop.” They track your skills/location/preferences (remote/hybrid/office) and match future roles—no black-hole applications. Salary & market intel Annual Salary Analysis Report (free on their site/LinkedIn/ICPA): Ranges from specialist to director/VP, based on actual placements. Hiring trends: Companies should streamline (no 6-round interviews for specialists); candidates—avoid emotional jumps. Hot market realities Jobs everywhere—they’re busier than ever, but talent pool is tight (75-day placements vs. prior 60 days). Remote still king; compliance pros too swamped to job hunt actively. Patience pays—define your next role’s challenges/learning. Interview Process Tips Recruiters like hers bypass AI screeners—your vetted resume hits decision-makers directly. Free interview prep: Screening, tips, mock sessions (some pros need the practice). Mentorship for all levels: “Maybe your next step isn’t ready yet—let’s build toward it.” Key Takeaways Leverage networks/conferences like ICPA—build connections beyond job boards. For hirers: Partner with niche recruiters to fill roles faster. For job seekers: Get hands-on > certify; use free tools (resumes, salary data, prep); don’t settle. Trade recruiting is personal—reach out anytime. Market’s hot; something’s out there for everyone. Credits Host: Annik Sobing Guest: Colleen, Trade Compliance Recruiting Solutions 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/

    13 min

  4. 5D AGO

    [Cindy’s Version] This Is Me Trying

    Host: Cindy Allen Published: March 13, 2026 Length: ~15 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center Episode Summary In this week’s episode of Simply Trade: Cindy’s Version, Cindy Allen breaks down the latest developments following the Supreme Court’s decision striking down IEEPA tariffs—and what CBP is proposing as a path forward for duty refunds. CBP has introduced a proposed automated system called CAPE (Consolidated Administration Processing of Entries) to manage refund claims tied to the invalidated tariffs. While the proposal answers some questions, it also raises several new operational considerations for importers and customs brokers. At the same time, global trade policy continues to move quickly. The administration has launched new Section 301 investigations covering 16 major economies, announced forced labor investigations involving 60 countries, and is monitoring supply chain risks tied to oil disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. Inspired by Taylor Swift’s This Is Me Trying, Cindy walks through what we know, what we don’t know yet, and why the trade community may need to remain patient as the refund process takes shape. This Week in Trade • New Section 301 investigations targeting structural excess manufacturing capacity across 16 economies • Forced labor investigations announced involving 60 countries • Ongoing monitoring of supply chain risks tied to the Strait of Hormuz • Possible Jones Act waiver discussions as energy logistics concerns grow IEEPA Refund Process: What We Know So Far Following the Supreme Court decision, CBP has proposed a new automated refund system called CAPE, which would allow importers or brokers to submit claims through a portal connected to ACE. The proposal includes: • A portal-based refund submission process • Automated recalculation of entries with IEEPA duties removed • Updated entry records reflected back into ACE While the framework is promising, several operational questions remain—including how already liquidated entries, reconciliation filings, and broker system updates will be handled. Key Takeaways • CBP is developing a structured process for IEEPA duty refunds • Importers will likely need to submit claims through a CAPE portal • Some refund scenarios remain unclear and may require legal guidance • Major new Section 301 investigations signal continued trade enforcement activity • Global supply chain risks remain elevated due to energy disruptions Credits Host: Cindy Allen - Trade Force Multiplier Producer: Lalo Solorzano Simply Trade is produced by Global Training Center 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

    16 min

  5. 6D AGO

    Advanced Section 232: Metal Value Content & Enforcement Insights with Deleon Trade

    Simply Trade Podcast Host: Lalo Solorzano Guests: Cindy Deleon, John Metrich Episode Length: ~35 minutes Published: March 2026 Episode Summary In this episode of Simply Trade, Lalo Solorzano sits down with Cindy Deleon and John Metrich from Deleon Trade to explore one of the more complex corners of trade compliance: advanced Section 232 tariff enforcement and metal value content analysis. Recorded shortly after the Advanced Topics in Customs Compliance Conference (ATCC), the conversation dives into how trade professionals are navigating the increasingly sophisticated enforcement environment surrounding Section 232 tariffs. Cindy and John share insights from their work helping companies analyze metal value content, prepare for potential enforcement actions, and think strategically about how these tariffs are being applied in practice. The discussion highlights why Section 232 compliance is no longer just a basic classification issue but often requires deeper operational and sourcing analysis. For trade professionals dealing with steel, aluminum, derivative products, or complex supply chains, this episode provides a valuable look into the advanced compliance considerations shaping today’s trade environment. Key Topics Discussed The purpose and structure of the Advanced Topics in Customs Compliance Conference (ATCC) Why Section 232 compliance has become increasingly complex How metal value content calculations are impacting imports Enforcement trends and what regulators are focusing on The importance of understanding supply chain inputs and sourcing How companies should prepare for deeper scrutiny and potential audits Practical insights from working with importers facing these challenges Key Takeaways 1. Section 232 compliance goes far beyond classification Companies must increasingly analyze the underlying metal value and sourcing behind products to ensure compliance. 2. Enforcement is becoming more sophisticated Regulators are taking a deeper look at supply chains and documentation related to steel and aluminum inputs. 3. Advanced knowledge matters As trade programs evolve, professionals must move beyond basic compliance and develop advanced technical expertise. 4. Education and collaboration are critical Industry events like ATCC help professionals share experiences and tackle the most challenging trade compliance issues together. Resources & Links Cindy Deleon – https://www.linkedin.com/in/cindydeleon/ John Metrich – https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-metrich-3b896a53/ Deleon Trade – https://www.deleontrade.com Advanced Topics in Customs Compliance Conference (ATCC) – https://www.customsconferences.com/ Learn more about trade compliance training – https://www.globaltrainingcenter.com CBP Trade and Cargo Security Summit - April 28, 2026 AAEI Conference - June 23 GTE Conference - July 2 Credits Host: Lalo Solorzano Guests: Cindy Deleon John Metrich Producer: Global Training Center Podcast: Simply Trade Subscribe & Follow Stay connected with the Simply Trade Podcast: Global Training Center LinkedIn YouTube Spotify Apple Podcasts Trade Geeks Community Join the Conversation What are you seeing with Section 232 enforcement and metal value content requirements? Share your thoughts and experiences with the trade community and join the discussion.

    37 min

  6. MAR 10

    [TIPS] Trade Org Structures That Actually Work: Budget, Sponsors & Avoiding Compliance Civil Wars

    Hosts: Renee Chiuchiarelli & Julie Parks Published: March 2026 Format: Simply Trade Tips Length: ~15 minutes Episode Summary In this episode of Simply Trade Tips, hosts Renee Chiuchiarelli and Julie Parks dive deeper into one of the most overlooked drivers of trade compliance success: organizational structure. While many trade professionals focus on technical issues like classification, valuation, or origin rules, Renee and Julie explain that the real barrier to execution is often structural — specifically who owns the budget, who sponsors the program, and how decision-making authority is distributed across the organization. They explore how trade leaders can navigate internal structures, align their messaging with different departments, and build the relationships necessary to secure funding and remove roadblocks. Because in global trade, having the right expertise isn’t enough — you also need the right organizational support to make things happen. Key Topics Discussed • Why organizational structure can make or break a trade compliance program • The importance of understanding who controls the budget • How different departments prioritize risk, cost, and operational goals • What an executive sponsor actually does (and what they don’t do) • Why trade leaders need influence across multiple departments • How to avoid internal “compliance civil wars” Key Insights Budget Ownership Changes Everything When the trade team owns the budget, they can prioritize projects based on compliance risk and operational need. But when another department controls the budget, trade leaders must frame requests in terms that matter to that function — whether that’s ROI, operational efficiency, or system modernization. Speak the Language of the Budget Owner Different departments evaluate trade initiatives through their own lens: • Finance: ROI, penalties avoided, dollars recovered • Supply Chain: speed, predictability, fewer shipment holds • IT: integration, system quality, and security • Legal / Compliance: enforcement risk and regulatory protection Understanding these priorities can dramatically improve the chances of getting initiatives funded. An Executive Sponsor Removes Roadblocks An executive sponsor is not simply someone who encourages the program. A real sponsor: • Clears organizational roadblocks • Influences other executives • Helps secure resources and approvals The right sponsor can dramatically increase the effectiveness of a trade compliance program. Build Strategic Relationships Across Functions Trade rarely sits perfectly within one department. That means trade leaders often need multiple relationships across the organization to make initiatives successful. For example: • Trade under logistics may benefit from a legal sponsor • Trade under legal may need supply chain support • Finance leadership can help secure project funding These partnerships create the influence needed to move compliance initiatives forward. Memorable Line from the Episode “A real sponsor isn’t a cheerleader — it’s someone who clears the roadblocks.” Join the Conversation Have you experienced organizational roadblocks in your trade program? How is your compliance team structured — and does it help or hinder your work? Share your thoughts with the Simply Trade community. 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 Simply Trade 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, and share with your fellow trade geeks! Want to Be on the Show or Have Topic Suggestions? 📧 SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com 🐦 Twitter/X: @SimplyTradePod

    15 min

  7. MAR 9

    [ROUNDUP] Scaling AI in Global Enterprises: Live Trade Compliance Conversations

    Host: Annik Sobing Guests: Jennifer Varney (Volvo Group), Penny Chen (PAX) Recorded at: ICPA Conference, San Antonio, TX Published: March 2026 Length: ~25 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center AI Meets Trade Compliance: From Auto Supply Chains to AI Live from ICPA San Antonio, Annik sits down with Jennifer from Volvo Group and Penny from PAX for an all‑women, International Women’s Day‑timed conversation about how AI is actually being used in trade compliance today—far beyond the buzzwords. They explore the reality of AI inside a massively complex automotive supply chain, how duty drawback is being reimagined with AI, and what trade teams should think about before buying or building any tools.​ What You’ll Learn in This Episode Session highlights from ICPA Jennifer: Practical implementation of AI to support customs clearance at the enterprise level—how one company uses AI to survive an “ever‑changing and incredibly volatile” trade landscape. Penny: A “beginner‑friendly” intro to general AI tools, how large language models work, and how trade compliance leaders can evaluate AI quality and fit.​ The automotive reality: 1,000+ policy changes and thousands of parts In just the last year, there have been 1,000+ trade policy changes worldwide, affecting about 5 trillion dollars in spend. Most of the real impact comes from trade barrier changes, not facilitation measures. A single vehicle can have 2,000–3,000 parts sourced from thousands of suppliers globally, some in‑house, some external. New demands around Section 232 (steel/aluminum/copper), forced labor, EUDR, connected vehicle rules, dual‑use, etc. mean OEMs must know their supply base down to raw material origin and processing, sometimes 5–6 tiers deep.​ Why human-only workflows can’t keep up Many tier‑1 suppliers don’t even have the data OEMs now must report, or consider it proprietary. Trade teams are drowning in documentation, entry creation, and ever‑changing regulatory demands—falling behind risks blocked shipments and massive cost. Jennifer’s view: AI is less about replacing people and more about augmenting limited resources before they’re “buried under all of the legislative changes.”​ Where AI fits in (and where it doesn’t) Example use case: consolidating multiple documents (PO, invoice, BL, shipping manifest) to build a single 7501—AI reads different formats, extracts the right fields, and populates data so humans review instead of retyping. Penny’s rule of thumb: if it’s a task you’d happily delegate to an intern, it’s a candidate for automation or semi‑automation. AI frees people to focus on high‑value work: audits, wider coverage (5% → 99%), forecasting regulatory changes, and adjusting systems/processes for what’s coming next.​ Starting your AI journey: practical adoption path Step 1: Use free or existing tools (e.g., Microsoft Copilot) for summaries, data cleaning, and simple tasks. Step 2: When needs get more complex, consider specialized AI tools (like PAX’s AI‑powered duty drawback service), but pair them with solid ROI analysis: cost vs. time savings vs. recovered dollars. Step 3: For large enterprises, begin with defining pain points and a data strategy: Where do you spend the most time? Which activity is eating 90% of your bandwidth? What data will go into AI, and what exactly do you want back out?​ Overcoming fear and building buy‑in Penny’s take: curiosity is your best ally—if you don’t know how to use AI, start by asking AI how to use AI. Jennifer’s advice: Engage stakeholders early; give them a voice in how the tool is designed and used. Set realistic expectations—even with aggressive automation, maybe only ~30% of workload can be automated today. Focus human effort on strategy and change management, not repetitive admin.​ Choosing the “right” AI for your team Not every company needs every AI—e.g., if you classify one item a month, a classification platform may not be worth it. For trade leaders, tool selection should be guided by: Where you lose the most time or money. Data type mix (text + structured data). Compliance/guardrail needs and vendor transparency about models and controls. Conferences like ICPA are key: they surface real use cases, connect trade and tech experts, and help teams refine what they actually need.​ International Women’s Day Spotlight This episode also celebrates International Women’s Day and highlights women leading in trade, tech, and compliance—from OEMs to AI startups. Annik closes with a shoutout to all women in trade who are building, leading, and pushing the industry forward.​ Credits Host: Annik Sobing Guests: Jennifer (Volvo Group), Penny (PAX) Recorded at: ICPA Conference, San Antonio, TX   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/

    22 min

  8. MAR 6

    [Cindy's Version] Are you Ready For It (Refunds)?

    Host: Cindy Allen Show: Simply Trade – Cindy’s Version Published: March 6, 2026 Length: ~13 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center Ready For It? CBP’s IEEPA Refund Proposal Drops—Here’s What’s Next Cindy Allen, CEO of TradeForce Multiplier, dives into the latest trade developments through Taylor Swift’s “Ready For It?”—perfect for the “let the games begin” drama unfolding in IEEPA refund hearings. From DHS shakeups and Section 122 lawsuits to CBP’s just‑filed refund blueprint, Cindy unpacks the mechanics, open questions, and what importers/brokers should do now.​ What You’ll Learn in This Episode DHS leadership change Secretary Noem removed; scuttlebutt suggests more exits at DHS/CBP headquarters. New nominee: Oklahoma senator with broad congressional/President support (not yet formal).​ Section 122 tariff challenges 24 states sue in Court of International Trade, arguing Section 122 doesn’t meet “imbalance of payments” requirement for universal tariffs. Commerce Secretary Besant hints at 15% rate hikes for specific industries, potentially violating Section 122’s uniform application rule—no movement yet (as of Friday afternoon).​ USMCA signals Congress supports extension, but President has final say. Discussions on trilateral vs. bilateral (U.S.–Canada, U.S.–Mexico); some push for 1‑year extension to renegotiate post‑tariff chaos.​ Global disruptions Iran war halts Strait of Hormuz traffic, backing up oil tankers and vessels reliant on that fuel—broad transportation ripple effects.​ USTR advisory opportunity Nominations open for 4 USTR trade advisory groups (separate from COAC)—check Federal Register notices. Chance to influence policy, build government/industry relationships.​ Why “Ready For It?” Cindy channels Taylor Swift’s “Ready For It?” for the IEEPA refund “dating game” between DOJ, CBP, and CIT: Federal Circuit rejected government’s 90‑day delay request, remanded immediately to CIT. CIT hearing (March 4) was “entertaining” bickering—judge ruled no suit needed for non‑final entries and ordered CBP to liquidate without IEEPA duties. CIT conference (March 6, closed): CBP filed a refund proposal.​ CBP’s IEEPA Refund Proposal Breakdown How it would work: Importers file ACE declaration with Excel list of affected entries. ACE runs validations, auto‑recalculates IEEPA refund. CBP verifies declaration accuracy. ACE auto‑liquidates; CBP certifies; Treasury issues refunds (as normal). Estimated 45 days for CBP programming.​ Open questions: Entry updates: ACE is system of record—will underlying entry summaries be corrected? (Critical for protests, PSCs, reconciliation, drawback.) Broker involvement: ABI required? Broker systems need programming? Push/pull updates? Reconciliation: How handled in bulk process? PSC/audit impact: Can filers still correct misclassifications post‑bulk liquidation? (Protests harder than PSC.) Liquidation halt: CBP questions authority to pause during 45‑day programming (hundreds of thousands liquidated March 6).​ Key Takeaways CIT has jurisdiction; expect CBP proposal review/dialogue—trade associations pushing entry updates. Programming delays + ABI sync = potential months before refunds flow. Liquidation is automatic unless stopped—monitor your entries closely. “Let the games begin”—are you ready for the IEEPA refund process?​ Credits Host: Cindy Allen Producer: Annik Sobing  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/

    15 min
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4.6
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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!

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    Global Training Center
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    460
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2024 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Simply Trade

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