67 episodes

A fun and entertaining look at current events, trade and the United Nations, brought to you from the perspective of two American expats and UN civil servants living in Switzerland. Hilarity ensues as they try to keep a straight face while recapping the latest in current events and the local scene in Geneva, Switzerland as well as interviews with fellow expats on the international scene and leaders in their respective fields.

Trade Splaining Ardian Mollabeqiri & Robert Skidmore

    • Business
    • 4.9 • 29 Ratings

A fun and entertaining look at current events, trade and the United Nations, brought to you from the perspective of two American expats and UN civil servants living in Switzerland. Hilarity ensues as they try to keep a straight face while recapping the latest in current events and the local scene in Geneva, Switzerland as well as interviews with fellow expats on the international scene and leaders in their respective fields.

    More EU Regulations, Shifting Summer Tourism and Uncovering Why Politicians Lie About Trade with Dimitry Grozoubinski

    More EU Regulations, Shifting Summer Tourism and Uncovering Why Politicians Lie About Trade with Dimitry Grozoubinski

    Tradesplaining Podcast Episode 66: More EU Regulations, Shifting Summer Tourism and Uncovering Why Politicians Lie About Trade with author Dimitry Grozoubinski
    ---
    Episode Summary
    Welcome to Episode 66 of the Tradesplaining podcast! In this episode, hosts Rob and Ardi dive into the complexities of international trade, explore shifting tourism trends, and discuss why luxury watches may not be the investment they once were. This episode features a special guest interview with Dmitry Grozubinsky, author of "Why Politicians Lie About Trade."
     
    Key Topics Covered
    1. EU Deforestation Regulation   - The episode kicks off with a discussion on the EU's new deforestation regulation, highlighting its potential impact on international trade and the challenges it poses for importers.   2. Shifts in Tourism Trends   - Rob and Ardi explore why high-spending American tourists are now favoring the coast of Poland over traditional destinations like Greece. They discuss the economic implications of this shift and how climate change is influencing travel patterns.
    3. Investment in Luxury Watches   - A lighthearted yet insightful segment on why watches have historically been a poor investment, complete with humorous anecdotes and market analysis.
    4. Interview with Dmitry Grozoubinsky   - Dmitry Grozoubinsky, a renowned trade policy expert, joins the podcast to discuss his latest book, "Why Politicians Lie About Trade." Dmitry shares insights on the complexities of trade negotiations and the misinformation often propagated by politicians.
    5. US Tariffs on Steel and Aluminum   - The hosts delve into the US's recent imposition of retroactive tariffs on steel and aluminum from Mexico, examining the broader implications for trade relations and the Republican platform's stance on tariffs.
    6. Local News and Watch Industry Trends   - The episode concludes with a segment on local news, focusing on the plummeting value of luxury watches and the introduction of the Bloomberg Subdial Watch Index.
    Quotes from the Episode
    - Rob on EU Regulations: "If you don't have good data about where your coffee was grown, you could be excluded from the EU market."- Ardi on Tourism: "High-spending Americans are driving economies across Southern Europe as vacationers take advantage of a strong dollar."- Dmitry Grozubinsky: "If someone with a large public platform is communicating about an issue in a way that leaves the public with an incomplete or misleading picture, for me that is foundationally indistinguishable from lying."
    Listener Engagement
    - Subscribe and Share: Don't forget to subscribe to Tradesplaining on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube. Share this episode with friends or colleagues interested in international trade and business.- Feedback:Reach out via Twitter @tradesplaining, Instagram @trade.splaining, or email tradesplaining@gmail.com.
     SEO Keywords
    - International Trade- EU Deforestation Regulation- Tourism Trends 2024- Luxury Watch Investment- Dmitry Grozubinsky- US Tariffs on Steel- Trade Policy Podcast
    ---
    Join us for an informative and entertaining episode as we navigate the intricate world of international trade, dissect current economic trends, and share a few laughs along the way. Tune in now and stay informed on the latest in trade and business!

    • 45 min
    AI, China(again) and Rethinking Supply Chains with Peter S. Goodman

    AI, China(again) and Rethinking Supply Chains with Peter S. Goodman

    Welcome to Episode 65 of Tradesplaining! This week, hosts Rob and Ardian dive into the intricacies of the U.S. borrowing its way to economic growth, the role of AI in trade, and, of course, the ever-relevant topic of China. They also sit down with Peter S. Goodman, Global Economic Correspondent for The New York Times, to discuss his latest book, "How the World Ran Out of Everything: Inside the Global Supply Chain." Tune in for listener feedback, a news roundup, and a few laughs along the way.
     
    Key Topics:
    1. U.S. Economic Growth and Borrowing:   - Discussion on the U.S. borrowing strategy to fuel economic growth.   - Comparison with Europe's economic performance.   - Insight into global economic policies and their impact.
    2. AI in Trade:   - Analysis of AI's potential and risks in global trade.   - Perspectives on AI-driven economic disruptions.   - Expert opinions on the future of AI in the trade sector.
    3. China's Influence:   - Overview of China's role in global trade.   - Recent developments in Chinese trade policies.   - Impact of geopolitical tensions on trade dynamics.
    4. Interview with Peter S. Goodman:   - In-depth conversation about his book, "How the World Ran Out of Everything."   - Exploration of global supply chain vulnerabilities exposed by the pandemic.   - Stories of real-world impacts on workers and businesses.   - Discussion on the future of supply chain management and resilience.
    Segments
    - Introduction:  - Hosts Rob and Artie set the stage for the episode with their trademark humor and insights.
    - What Went Wrong This Week:  - IKEA's shift in production to North America.  - G7's unified stance on Chinese trade policies.
    - Winning in America:  - Analysis of America's recent economic strategies.  - Comparative look at Europe's economic challenges.
    - The Vibe Shift:  - Correspondent Michelle discusses the metaverse, IKEA's presence on Roblox, and the evolving landscape of virtual work.
     
    - Local News:  - Public service announcement from Maersk regarding early Christmas orders.  - Light-hearted commentary on current events.
     
    Special Thanks:- Executive Producer: Michelle O'Geen- Production Assistance: Armina Sinani
     
    Subscribe & Follow:Don't miss out on future episodes! Subscribe to Tradesplaining on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and now on YouTube. Leave us a review and share with friends!
     
    Connect with Us:- Twitter: [@Tradesplaining](https://twitter.com/Tradesplaining)- Instagram: [@Trade.splaining](https://instagram.com/Trade.splaining)- Email: tradesplaining@gmail.com
     
    Listen Responsibly!
    ---
    Optimize your podcast experience by tuning in to Episode 65 of Tradesplaining, where international trade meets humor and insight. Dive deep into economic strategies, AI's impact on trade, and learn from industry expert Peter S. Goodman. Perfect for listeners passionate about global economics, supply chain management, and staying informed with a touch of wit.

    • 49 min
    The Tariffs Keep on Coming, While Mexico is Stuck in the Middle

    The Tariffs Keep on Coming, While Mexico is Stuck in the Middle

    Episode 64 - "The Tariffs Keep on Coming, While Mexico is Stuck in the Middle"
    Hosts: Ardian Mollabeqiri and Robert Skidmore
    Guest: Lars Karlsson, Global Head of Trade and Customs Consulting at Maersk
    ---
    Episode SummaryWelcome to Episode 64 of Trade Splaining, the podcast that makes sense of international trade, business, and expat life without putting you to sleep—most of the time. In this episode, we dive into Mexico's strategic position in the ongoing US-China trade tensions, the rising trend of tariffs, and the surprising new role of TikTok in career development. Our special guest, Lars Karlsson, sheds light on navigating trade in an era of uncertainty.
    ---
    Key Segments
    1. Introduction and Episode Overview   - Hosts: Ardian Mollabeqiri and Robert Skidmore   - Topics: Mexico's economic opportunities amid US-China tensions, the rise of tariffs, and TikTok’s role in career networking.
    2. News Highlights   - Swiss Watchmaker's Success: Recep Recepi’s watch auctioned for $4.3 million.   - Listener Feedback: Germany's proposed price cap on kebabs.   - Tariffs Update: President Biden’s new tariffs on EVs, semiconductors, and solar cells targeting Chinese goods.
    3. Main Discussion Points   - Mexico’s Economic Position:     - The impact of US-China trade disputes on Mexican manufacturing.     - Benefits from the USMCA trade agreement.   - Global Trade Conflicts:     - Turkey suspending trade with Israel due to the Gaza conflict.     - Security threats in the Red Sea causing shipping route changes and increased CO2 emissions.
    4. Interview with Lars Karlsson   - Trade in an Uncertain World:     - Insights into global trade volatility.     - The importance of digitalization and resilience in supply chains.   - **Future Trends:**     - The impact of new trade compliance regulations.     - The balance between resilience and sustainability in trade.
    5. Local News and Fun Segments   - Stolen Bike Recovery in Geneva: Innovative approaches to preventing bike theft.   - Migration Panic: Capturing female Asian wasps in Switzerland.   - Euro Mullet Competition: Details about the upcoming mullet competition in Valais.
    6. Closing Remarks   - A reminder to subscribe, review, and follow the podcast on various platforms.
    ---
    Notable Quotes- Lars Karlsson on Resilience: "We are getting more resilience. We are more accurate in what we do. And we are doing that in a more volatile and insecure situation for trade than ever before."- Ardi on Trade Conflicts: "Trade is just sort of a passenger on the ship, and it's really not the one driving the car right?"- Rob on Digitalization: "The digitalization of trade and the use of data in supply chains are accelerating, making it easier to handle new regulations and crises."
    ---
    Featured Links- Maersk - Learn more about Lars Karlsson’s work and Maersk’s trade solutions.- USMCA Trade Agreement - Explore the benefits and details of the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement.
    ---
    Connect with Us- Twitter: @Tradesplaining - Instagram: @trade.splaining- Email: tradesplaining@gmail.com
    ---
    Subscribe & Review:- Apple Podcasts- Spotify- Google Podcasts- YouTube
    ---
    #InternationalTrade #Tariffs #MexicoEconomy #SupplyChain #TikTokCareers #TradeCompliance #Podcast #TradeNews
    ---
    Credits:- Hosts: Ardian Mollabeqiri and Robert Skidmore- Guest: Lars Karlsson- Executive Producer: Michelle Olguin- Production Assistance: Armina Sinani
    ---
    **Disclaimer:** Remember to listen responsibly and share this episode with friends and colleagues interested in the latest trends in international trade and business.

    • 38 min
    Bidenomics, Swiss Voters & Navigating the Path to Net-zero (or not)

    Bidenomics, Swiss Voters & Navigating the Path to Net-zero (or not)

    Episode 63 - Bidenomics, Swiss Voters & Navigating the Path to Net-zero (or not)
     
    Episode Overview:In this thought-provoking episode of Tradesplaining, hosts Rob and Marty delve into the complexities of global trade policies, the implications of Swiss electoral decisions, and the realistic challenges of achieving net-zero emissions. Key topics include an in-depth discussion on "Bidenomics" and its impact on U.S. trade, a landmark legal case in Switzerland on climate action, and various perspectives on sustainability and environmental policies.
    Featured Segments:- Bidenomics and Trade Policy: Analysis of the current U.S. trade policies under the Biden administration, with a focus on tariffs and their economic implications.- Swiss Legal Landmarks: Examination of a recent Swiss court case where elderly plaintiffs successfully argued that inadequate governmental action on climate change violated their human rights.- Navigating Net-Zero: Insights into the global struggle between economic needs and environmental goals, featuring viewpoints from industry leaders on the challenges of sustainable energy transitions.
    Special Guest:Nicole Bivens Collinson, a principal at Sandler Travis Rosenberg, joins to offer her expertise on the shifts in trade dynamics and the evolution of global trade agreements.
    Listener Engagement:Listeners are encouraged to subscribe and leave a review. Feedback is highly valued to shape future episodes and address listener interests in international trade, sustainability, and policy impacts.
    Keywords:International Trade, Bidenomics, Swiss Voters, Climate Change, Net-Zero Emissions, U.S. Trade Policy, Environmental Policy, Sustainable Energy, Economic Impacts of Tariffs, Global Trade Agreements.
    Closing Thoughts:The episode wraps up with a forward-looking discussion on the role of policy in shaping future economic and environmental landscapes, emphasizing the interconnectedness of global markets and societal well-being.
    ---
    Tune in to Tradesplaining for deep dives into complex topics with a touch of humor to keep it engaging. Available on all major podcast platforms.**

    • 39 min
    More Supply Chain Disruptions, Baltimore Bridge Collapse and Trade Statistics

    More Supply Chain Disruptions, Baltimore Bridge Collapse and Trade Statistics

    Episode 62: Unraveling the Threads of Global Trade and the Quirks of Expat Life
    Welcome to Episode 62 of TradeSplaining, where your hosts, Rob and Ardi, along with special guest Don Brasher, dive deep into the intricacies of international trade, business, and the expat experience. Get ready to be enlightened and entertained as we explore everything from supply chain challenges to the unique lifestyle of living abroad.
     
    In This Episode:

    Jim Croce's Mysteries, Rolex and the Atomic Number of Samarium: We kick off with a light-hearted debate on Jim Croce’s roots and a fascinating fact about samarium. Yes, trade and expat life discussions can start from anywhere!


    Trade Data Insights with Don Brasher: Don Brasher, founder and president of Trade Data Monitor, joins us to shed light on trade statistics, their significance, and some pitfalls to watch out for. His expertise illuminates the often complex world of global merchandise trade, offering listeners an exclusive peek behind the statistical curtain.


    Global Events Impacting Trade: From a massive container ship striking the Francis Scott Key Bridge to the soaring prices of cocoa, we cover how recent events underscore the fragility and dynamism of global supply chains. Listen in as we dissect the implications of these events on businesses and consumers alike.


    Populism and Protectionism in Trade Policies: Explore how current trends in populism are influencing trade and domestic policies across the globe. We delve into the Biden administration's stance on significant steel industry events and the ongoing debate between the US and the EU over steel and aluminum disputes.


    The Expat Focus: Our conversation takes a lighter turn as we navigate the peculiarities of expat life, including the challenges and joys of adapting to new cultures and navigating the complexities of international living.


    Tasman AI – A Creative Twist on Globalization: Discover how Tasmania is offering a slow alternative to AI, bridging global creativity with local artists. It's globalization with a personal touch.


    Puppy Yoga in Geneva – A Local Glimpse: Ever heard of puppy yoga? Find out why it's causing a stir in Geneva and what it says about local regulations and the universal quest for relaxation and happiness.

    Why Listen to This Episode?
    Insights from Trade Experts: Gain valuable insights from Don Brasher and our hosts, who bring years of experience in international trade and economics.
    Diverse Topics: From serious trade discussions to quirky expat tales, this episode has something for everyone.
    Engagement: Engage with a community of listeners interested in the nuances of global trade, business strategies, and the expat lifestyle.
    Subscribe and Join Us!
    Don't miss out on future episodes – subscribe to TradeSplaining on your favorite podcast platform. Share your thoughts and join our community on Twitter (@tradesplaining) or Instagram (@trade.splaining).
    TradeSplaining is more than a podcast; it's your gateway to understanding the complex world of international trade and the unique adventures of expat life. Listen responsibly!

    • 41 min
    Unpacking MC13 while Switzerland, India and EFTA Make Trade Great Again

    Unpacking MC13 while Switzerland, India and EFTA Make Trade Great Again

    Episode 61: Unpacking MC13 while Switzerland, India and EFTA Make Trade Great Again
    Hosts: Rob and Ardian
    Episode Summary: Welcome to Tradesplaining, where we unravel the complex world of international trade, business, and expat life. In Episode 61, we delve into the aftermath of MC 13, explore the trade dynamics between Switzerland, India, and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), and discuss the EU's sustainability due diligence. Join us as we dissect these topics with wit, insights, and a dash of humor. Special guest Noelia Garcia Nebra, Head of Sustainability at ISO, shares her expertise on sustainability standards, trade, and more.
    Featured Topics:
    MC 13 Wrap-Up: An in-depth analysis of the outcomes and implications of the 13th Ministerial Conference of the World Trade Organization (WTO).
    Switzerland-India-EFTA Trade Dynamics: Examining the new trade deals, their significance, and the role of sustainability and human rights in trade agreements.
    EU Sustainability Due Diligence: The challenges and controversies surrounding the EU's approach to corporate sustainability in the supply chain.
    Special Guest: Noelia Garcia Nebra discusses the role of sustainability standards in international trade and the impact of ISO's work on global trade practices.
    Key Highlights:
    Discover the intricate balance between national interests and collective goals in global trade negotiations.
    Uncover the strategic significance of the Switzerland-India-EFTA trade deal and its implications for global trade networks.
    Explore the EU's stance on sustainability due diligence and its effects on businesses and trade policies.
    Gain valuable insights from Noelia Garcia Nebra of ISO on how sustainability standards can foster a more equitable and efficient global trading system.
    Episode Extras:
    Listener Feedback: We dive into your comments and questions, providing our unique takes on your inquiries.
    News Roundup: A quick-fire segment covering the latest in trade, business, and expat life.
    Dad Jokes Galore: Because no episode is complete without our trademark humor.
    Subscribe and Follow: Catch future episodes and join the Tradesplaining community by subscribing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. Don't forget to leave us a review and follow us on Twitter (@tradesplaining) and Instagram (@trade.splaining) for more updates and engaging content.

    • 41 min

Customer Reviews

4.9 out of 5
29 Ratings

29 Ratings

donikm7 ,

Shockingly easy way for me to keep up on politics and trade but not want to snooze off

Never thought I’d be laughing out loud at a global trade podcast but here we are

Trillivanilli ,

Yerrr

Funny enough to keep you engaged in global politics

GondwanaChic ,

Here for the wit and the trade intel!

Love this podcast! Gems of trade and global politics info interspersed with hilarious banter between the witty hosts. Great insight into the Geneva expat bubble, too. My vote for the best kebab spot in Geneva: Parfum de Beyrouth!

Top Podcasts In Business

George Kamel
Ramsey Network
The Ramsey Show
Ramsey Network
Money Rehab with Nicole Lapin
Money News Network
REAL AF with Andy Frisella
Andy Frisella #100to0
The Prof G Pod with Scott Galloway
Vox Media Podcast Network
The Diary Of A CEO with Steven Bartlett
DOAC

You Might Also Like

The Trade Guys
CSIS | Center for Strategic and International Studies
China Global
The German Marshall Fund
The Foreign Affairs Interview
Foreign Affairs Magazine
The Economics Show with Soumaya Keynes
Financial Times
Power Play
POLITICO
The Asia Chessboard
Center for Strategic and International Studies