In this episode of the International Trade Resource Podcast, host Kim Kirkendall chats with Patricia Leebove about what global process improvement really looks like inside international organizations. In this episode, Patricia breaks down how improvement work can range from small, high-impact fixes to full-scale projects — and why the size of the initiative doesn’t determine its value. She and Kim explore how lean principles, thoughtful measurement, and cross-functional collaboration help teams reduce waste, improve customer outcomes, and accelerate revenue.

Patricia also shares the human skills behind successful process improvement, including: facilitation, listening, data literacy, and an ability to translate across functions. She and Kim discuss why the humble spreadsheet is still one of the most used platforms in global organizations. Kim digs into the overlap between process improvement and project management, including practical examples of aligning stakeholders and managing scope.

The conversation then expands into the complexities of global work — from country-specific regulations to cultural norms that shape how teams collaborate. Patricia gives vivid examples, including how compliance expectations differ in Germany and how vacation practices shift dramatically across borders. The episode closes with her framework for assessing improvement maturity using a simple matrix, along with Kim’s invitation for listeners to reflect on their own processes and next steps. Listen now to learn how to apply these global process improvement insights to your own organization!

Key Takeaways

●       Process improvement can be anything from a kaizen-style quick fix to a full project rollout: impact matters more than scale.

●       Cultural norms and regulatory environments vary widely and meaningfully shape global improvement efforts.

●       A maturity matrix offers a straightforward framework for assessing progress and identifying next steps.

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In this episode of the International Trade Resource Podcast, host Kim Kirkendall chats with Ervis Micukaj, owner and general manager of Jet IT in Shanghai, about the practical realities of cloud backup, data security, and compliance for international companies— especially those operating in China and the broader APAC region. Ervis explains why backing up data and keeping it secure aren’t opposing goals but parts of the same strategy, and why companies need local expertise that understands both global cloud options and regional regulations.

The conversation demystifies what “the cloud” actually means and lays out the three common deployment models while stressing the single most important control point: who holds the encryption keys. Ervis breaks down a set of simple, practical safeguards: encrypt data at the source, keep full control of your own keys, apply Zero Trust principles, and build both local and redundant backups to ensure you meet performance and compliance requirements when operating across borders.

Kim and Ervis also map the regulatory landscape that affects backup decisions: China’s cybersecurity and data security requirements, Europe’s GDPR, and U.S. industry-specific rules. Rather than viewing compliance as a burden, Ervis reframes it as a quality framework that drives better practices and builds trust with regulators and partners. Tune in now and get the download on Cloud Backup and the future of AI-driven models!

Key takeaways

• Backup and security are complementary.
• Know your cloud models: public, private, and hybrid each have trade-offs.
• The 3–2–1 rule
  Compliance varies by region: compliance strengthens resilience and trust.
• Prepare for the future: AI governance is the next big security conversation. 

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In this episode of the International Trade Resource Podcast, host Kim Kirkendall sits down with Ann Shipherd, owner of A.C. Ship Global Trade Law and a seasoned consultant with extensive experience in customs brokerage and trade compliance. Together, they tackle one of the most pressing and confusing issues in international trade today: understanding tariff announcements.

When headlines announce a new tariff or policy shift, where can importers and trade professionals turn to separate fact from speculation? Ann walks us through a step-by-step process for finding accurate, up-to-date information - starting with presidential executive orders, then moving through CBP’s Cargo Systems Messaging Service (CSMS), the Federal Register, and beyond. She also emphasizes the practical role of customs brokers and industry colleagues in interpreting rapidly changing guidance.

The conversation dives deep into tariff stacking, the challenges of conflicting or delayed announcements, and the growing reliance on tools like ACE to verify the real-world application of tariffs. Ann and Kim highlight the importance of industry collaboration, CBP rulings, and staying proactive in a landscape where regulations shift quickly and sometimes retroactively.

If you’ve ever wondered how to make sense of tariff updates—or how to protect your company from unexpected costs—this episode is packed with insights and practical strategies.

Key Takeaways:

• Where to find the most reliable sources of tariff information (executive orders, CSMS, Federal Register, ACE).
  
  
  
• Why your customs broker should be your first call when announcements are made.
  
  
  
• How to use CBP rulings and industry associations to clarify uncertainties.
  
  
  
• What tariff stacking is and why it complicates landed cost calculations.
  
  
  
• The risks of delayed duty bills and why trade professionals must stay vigilant.
• Tools like newsletters, websites, and LinkedIn can help professionals stay up to date on rapidly changing trade issues.
  
  
  
• Storytelling is a powerful tool in influencing policymakers—companies that speak up can shape the future of trade.
   

Episode Sponsors:

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Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or commercial advice. We provide no guarantee for the accuracy of the information provided. Reproduction or transmission of this podcast is strictly prohibited.

In this episode of the International Trade Resource Podcast, host Kim Kirkendall chats with Ed Brzytwa, Vice President of International Trade at the Consumer Technology Association (CTA). With experience spanning the Department of Commerce, the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, and multiple trade associations, Ed brings deep insight into the intersection of trade policy and industry interests. The episode focuses on the often-overlooked power of trade associations—not just as event hosts, but as strategic connectors, advocates, and policy influencers.

Ed explains how trade associations like CTA provide businesses—especially small ones—with critical access to policymakers, tools for advocacy, and insider knowledge on fast-evolving trade developments. Listeners will learn how associations help shape trade policy through structured member engagement, regular working group meetings, and coordinated storytelling efforts that bring real-world impact to the attention of decision-makers.

Kim and Ed also explore ways companies can leverage their trade associations to not only stay informed, but to actively influence trade outcomes. From participating in policy committees and fly-ins, to responding to surveys or telling their own tariff-impact stories, Ed emphasizes that member engagement is what makes advocacy successful. The episode wraps with tips on how to stay current in a rapidly changing global trade landscape—from LinkedIn networking to AI-powered info-gathering tools.

This is a must-listen episode for any business involved in international trade or looking to understand how to influence trade policy more effectively through their association.

Key Takeaways:

• Trade associations go far beyond events—they provide research, advocacy, networking, and policy influence.
  
  
• Active member participation in working groups and policy discussions is essential to shaping effective trade advocacy.
  
  
• Small businesses can—and should—play a critical role in informing trade policy by sharing their experiences.
  
  
• Tools like newsletters, websites, and LinkedIn can help professionals stay up to date on rapidly changing trade issues.
  
  
• Storytelling is a powerful tool in influencing policymakers—companies that speak up can shape the future of trade.
   

Episode Sponsors:

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In this episode of the International Trade Resource Podcast, host Kim Kirkendall chats with Ying Lu, founder of Blue Lake Packaging and former global operations leader at Apple. With a rich background in industrial engineering and a passion for sustainable design, Ying brings a practical, design-forward perspective to a topic many companies overlook: packaging. But this isn’t just about logos and pretty boxes—this conversation dives into how packaging can be a powerful lever for reducing costs, improving sustainability, and navigating complex tariff structures.

Ying shares the three guiding principles her team uses to help clients streamline packaging: reducing unnecessary materials, designing packaging as a product itself, and simplifying manufacturing processes. Along the way, she gives real-world examples—from replacing instruction booklets with QR codes to optimizing shipping volumes and reducing tariffs by rethinking where and how packaging is applied. She also underscores how small changes in design can yield big savings, both financially and environmentally.

Kim and Ying go beyond theory to discuss how companies can make meaningful strides in sustainability without compromising brand identity or functionality. They break down what recyclable really means in practice, how to tailor packaging messaging to resonate with customers, and why visiting a recycling facility might just change the way you approach your next product launch. Whether you're a trade professional, supply chain leader, or brand manager, this episode will get you thinking outside the box—literally.

Key Takeaways:

●      The three core principles of cost-saving packaging design

●      How smart packaging choices can reduce landed costs and tariffs

●      What companies get wrong about sustainability—and how to fix it

Tune in to learn how packaging can be more than just a container—it can be a competitive advantage.

Episode Sponsors:

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Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or commercial advice. We provide no guarantee for the accuracy of the information provided. Reproduction or transmission of this podcast is strictly prohibited.

Today on the International Trade Resources Podcast, our host Kim Kirkendall is joined by Nathan Reed, a licensed customs broker and Director of Customs and Foreign Trade, to discuss the importance of knowledgeable and reliable customs brokers. Navigating the complexities of international trade regulations and customs compliance can be complex, and knowing how to make the most of your relationship with a trusted customs broker can simplify the process!

First, Kim and Nathan dive into the functions and responsibilities of customs brokers, which include; transmitting data to ensure import shipments clear customs, communicating with freight forwarders and carriers, calculating duties and taxes. Brokers can also arrange transportation, support HTS determination, record-keep, and support customs audits.

Next, Nathan lends advice on how companies should leverage the knowledge of their customs broker partners on import regulations and compliance. The customs brokers have an understanding of product requirements, can provide guidance on record-keeping and compliance, and advise on proper duty and tax application.

Lastly, Kim and Nathan explore considerations for companies who are looking to retain a customs broker directly. This includes how to find a good customs broker, the importance of considering service levels, assessing the broker's knowledge and expertise, evaluating value-added services, and ensuring sufficient staffing and support from the broker. 

Listen now and start exploring ways you can leverage your custom broker’s expertise today!

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• The often overlooked functions and responsibilities of customs brokers
• Advice on how companies should leverage the knowledge of their customs broker partners on import regulations and compliance
• Considerations for companies looking to retain a customs broker directly

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Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or commercial advice. We provide no guarantee for the accuracy of the information provided. Reproduction or transmission of this podcast is strictly prohibited.

In this episode of the International Trade Resource Podcast, host Kim Kirkendall chats with international marketing consultant Kathryn Read, dialing in from Vienna to unpack the art and science of negotiating import duties and tariffs. They kick off by discussing who traditionally bears the cost of import duties under common Incoterms and why building a comprehensive “price map” with your importer is critical to staying competitive.

As the conversation unfolds, Kim and Catherine dive deep into the tactics for transparent, partnership-style conversations with your distributor. They also explore effective maneuvers for short-term volatility —think pre-tariff shipments and tiered notice periods—alongside more strategic long term moves like nearshoring and shifting supply chains.

Looking beyond the immediate scramble, the episode lays out a framework for robust scenario planning: defining trigger points, modeling P&L impact and setting up annual HS-code and COO reviews to uncover savings. Catherine shares how co-planning with distributors and suppliers by leveraging payment terms, offering marketing support, developing joint inventory strategies—creates a true “everyone’s in the same boat” mindset that can turn a tariff headache into an opportunity for stronger alliances.

Key Takeaways:

• Map Your Costs: Build a live, end-to-end “Tariff Impact” spreadsheet to know exactly who pays what at every stage.
• Negotiate as Partners: Use transparent, shared-challenge language and flexible pricing clauses to keep customers and distributors on your side.
• Plan for All Scenarios: Define tariff “kill points” (e.g., 20%, 50%, 80%) and assign clear responsibilities for mild, moderate, and severe increases.
• Balance Short- and Long-Term Moves: Maintain a toolkit of quick levers and strategic shifts to stay agile.

Episode Sponsors:

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Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or commercial advice. We provide no guarantee for the accuracy of the information provided. Reproduction or transmission of this podcast is strictly prohibited.

In this episode of the International Trade Resource Podcast, host Kim Kirkendall chats with Emmet McGovern, a seasoned trade compliance expert about the often-overlooked but critically important world of importer liabilities and risks. Together, they unpack the role of the Importer of Record, explaining how legal responsibility for declaring goods, paying duties, and maintaining accurate documentation ultimately falls on whoever is listed as IOR.  Listeners will gain clarity on why simply relying on your supplier or freight forwarder isn’t enough to shield you from potential penalties.

They then dive into the nuts and bolts of what it takes to stay compliant—everything from choosing the right customs bond (single-entry vs. continuous) to declaring the full ten-digit HTS code, proper valuation of your goods (including assists and tooling fees), and correctly stating the country of origin. Real-world examples of tariff-circumvention schemes, such as undervaluation tricks and transshipment fraud, bring home just how costly even small errors can be.

Next, Kim and her guest walk through best practices for audit preparedness and recordkeeping, emphasizing the five-year retention requirement for documents and they list critical ones for you. They also discuss foreign sellers acting as the Importer of Record or under DDP terms. Finally, listeners are armed with proactive strategies to transform customs compliance from a risk into a competitive advantage.

Key Takeaways:

• Who is legally responsible for accuracy of customs documents and payment of duties.
• The importance of HTS codes and all valuation components.
• How to do self-audits, and prepare for a customs audit.

Episode Sponsors:

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Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or commercial advice. We provide no guarantee for the accuracy of the information provided. Reproduction or transmission of this podcast is strictly prohibited.

In this episode of the International Trade Resource Podcast, host Kim Kirkendall chats with Diego Montemayor, a seasoned trade compliance expert with over 15 years of global market experience. They dive deep into the sometimes confusing world of country of origin determination—especially when components are sourced, partially assembled, and finished across multiple jurisdictions. Diego lays out the fundamental tests U.S. Customs relies on, from the “substantial transformation” standard to the complementary value‑based analysis, helping listeners understand when and how a product’s origin truly changes ​.

Together, Kim and Diego unpack real‑world scenarios—like a 3D scanner whose electronic modules come from China but undergo welding, software installation, and housing assembly in Mexico—to illustrate how technical complexity and percentage‑of‑value calculations interplay in a COO decision. They also explore landmark rulings, including a flashlight case where pre‑configured components failed the transformation test, and the Harley‑Davidson EU dispute over tariff‑avoidance motives.

Wrapping up, Diego shares best practices for shoring up your COO position: from assembling detailed bills of materials and process documentation, to performing rigorous value‑add analyses and seeking advance customs rulings when in doubt. He warns of common pitfalls—over‑reliance on supplier claims, insufficient paperwork, and jurisdictional nuances—that can leave companies exposed to enforcement actions and unexpected duties​.

Key Takeaways

• Begin every COO assessment with the substantial‑transformation test; escalate to value‑based analysis when complexity or ambiguity arises
• Maintain a “COO file” with bills of materials, processing step descriptions (e.g., welding, software installation), supplier invoices, and logical rational
• Conduct supplier due diligence and consider binding rulings to lock in your origin position and demonstrate “reasonable care” to customs authorities ​
  
  
  

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Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or commercial advice. We provide no guarantee for the accuracy of the information provided. Reproduction or transmission of this podcast is strictly prohibited.

In this episode of the International Trade Resource Podcast, host Kim Kirkendall chats with international trade expert Alejandro Alcalde as they dive into additional valuation strategies and explore fresh opportunities amid an ever-evolving tariff.

Their conversation builds on prior discussions about first sale valuation and takes a deep dive into other options, including the use of free trade zones and bonded warehouses. Listeners will gain insights into how strategically delaying the import process by utilizing these zones can offer relief from duty and tax obligations—at least temporarily—as companies navigate unpredictable tariff fluctuations.

In addition, Kim and Alejandro unravel the nuances of special customs provisions, particularly under chapter 98 of the U.S. tariff schedule. They discuss how various scenarios, such as the handling of returned goods, repair and alteration processes, and even the strategic use of U.S. goods assembled abroad, can be leveraged to reduce costs and optimize operational flows. 

Kim and Alejandro also emphasize the critical importance of detailed documentation, robust traceability systems, and close coordination with customs brokers to ensure compliance with ever-changing regulations. Tune in to learn how these advanced valuation strategies can help companies better manage risk and optimize their international trade operations.

Key takeaways:

• The benefits and strategic considerations of using free trade zones and bonded warehouses to delay duty and tax payments.
• An overview of special customs provisions under chapter 98, including processes for returned goods and repair/alteration scenarios.
• Insights into the complexities of U.S. goods assembled abroad and the importance of maintaining country-of-origin status through proper documentation and operational planning.
• Practical advice on ensuring traceability and aligning with compliance requirements in a volatile tariff environment.

Episode Sponsors: 

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Corporate Services and full Accounting/CPA/Tax for China.

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Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or commercial advice. We provide no guarantee for the accuracy of the information provided. Reproduction or transmission of this podcast is strictly prohibited.