Host: Cindy Allen

This week, Cindy Allen — the Taylor Swift of Trade — takes inspiration from We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together to mark the official end of de minimis. For over a decade, Cindy lived and breathed this program while at DHL and FedEx, but as of August 29, 2025, de minimis is gone — and the trade world is already feeling the ripple effects.

From India’s new 50% tariffs to recession warnings from top economists, Cindy explains why small businesses, warehouses, and e-commerce platforms may be heading into a whole new era of compliance, cost control, and consumer pricing.

India’s reciprocal tariffs jump to 50% tied to Russian oil sourcing

Why leading economists are warning that tariffs could trigger a U.S. recession

The rise and fall of de minimis — from a 1930s travel perk to $800 duty-free imports

How small businesses leveraged de minimis to grow — and why its end may reshape competition

The shift toward Foreign Trade Zones, bonded warehouses, and U.S. fulfillment strategies

What “for sale” structuring and B2B2C transactions mean for compliance

Why CBP wants consumer-level data and how the loss of Type 86 impacts targeting

The uncertain path forward: industry groups pressing CBP for new guidance

De minimis allowed 1.4 billion shipments annually — its removal is reshaping e-commerce and compliance.

Some companies are raising prices, others are exiting the U.S. market entirely.

Warehousing demand in the U.S. is surging as companies front-load and consolidate shipments.

CBP faces new challenges as critical consumer-level data disappears.

Industry is waiting for CBP guidance to bring predictability to the new landscape.

Hosts:

Cindy Allen – LinkedIn

Producer:

Lalo Solorzano - LinkedIn

New episodes every Friday.

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

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Trade Geeks Community

Don’t forget to rate, review, and share with your fellow trade geeks!

Hosts: Lalo Solorzano & Andy Shiles

🌍 The Broker Relationship That Makes or Breaks Trade

The right customs broker isn’t just a vendor — they’re a strategic partner. In this episode, Lalo and Andy sit down with Diane Perez to unpack why importer–broker relationships are the backbone of compliance and trade success.

With experience at Amazon, Pratt & Whitney, Henkel, Diageo, and Oura, Diane brings both the importer and broker perspective. She explains why brokers should be seen as trusted advisors, how proactive audits and reviews keep compliance on track, and why communication and data quality are critical in today’s tariff-heavy, post–de minimis world.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

Why importer–broker relationships are more like strategic partnerships than vendor contracts

Key Takeaways:

A customs broker relationship is more like a tax accountant than a transactional vendor.

Quarterly broker reviews, audits, and performance metrics build accountability.

Data quality starts with importers — compliance is ultimately your responsibility.

Switching brokers too often weakens compliance and trust.

Giving brokers “a seat at the table” makes them true partners in strategy, not just paperwork.

Resources & Mentions:

NCBFAA (National Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association of America)

ICPA (International Compliance Professionals Association)

ACE Portal – U.S. Customs Automated Commercial Environment

Credits

Hosts:

Lalo Solorzano – LinkedIn

Andy Shiles – LinkedIn

Guest:

Diane Perez – LinkedIn

Producer:

Lalo Solorzano

Subscribe & Follow

New episodes every week.

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

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Trade Geeks Community

Don’t forget to rate, review, and share with your fellow trade geeks!

In this Tariff Chaos mini-series, Hammer & Heels (Renee & Julie) tackle the idea of not wasting a good crisis. When trade is front-page news and executives are finally paying attention, it’s the perfect moment for trade professionals to strengthen their visibility and push key initiatives forward.

Personal Branding Matters – Use this visibility to define your mission, values, and how you want to be perceived in the organization.

Elevate Customs & Trade Departments – Ensure your team has a voice in newsletters, task forces, and leadership discussions. Trade is no longer “back office”—it’s front and center.

Dust Off Shelved Projects – Revisit those compliance, automation, or mitigation projects that were previously denied and reposition them in today’s crisis-driven context.

👉 This week’s action item: Create your dream list of compliance projects that were once shelved. Put them back on the table so you’re ready to pitch them when tariff chaos brings leadership’s attention.

Join the Trade Geeks Community at Global Training Center and tell Renee & Julie:

Did you create your dream list?

Which project are you most excited to bring back into the conversation?

Producer: Lalo Solorzano

New TIPS episodes every Tuesday.

Presented by: Global Training Center — providing education, consulting, workshops, and compliance resources for trade professionals.

Connect with us on LinkedIn, LinkedIn (GTC), YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts,join the Trade Geeks community, or email us at [email protected].

Don’t forget to rate, review, and share with your fellow trade geeks!

Reach us at [email protected]

Automotive in Flux

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

Key Takeaways:

Tariff changes reshape auto supply chains but leave long-term planning murky.

Forced labor enforcement remains a top priority for global automakers.

Steel and aluminum tariffs add complexity to tariff classification and cost modeling.

Correct classification directly impacts USMCA eligibility and tariff exposure.

Compliance pros must embrace both vigilance and technology — including AI tools — to stay ahead.

Resources & Mentions:

Filipp Zaborenko’s upcoming Automotive Classification Advanced Mini-Course (Sept 16–18) via Global Training Center

Recent EU–US automotive tariff updates

UFLPA and forced labor due diligence requirements

CBP guidance on steel and aluminum tariffs

Producer: Lalo Solorzano

Guest: Filipp Zaborenko

New Roundup episodes every Monday.

Presented by: Global Training Center — providing education, consulting, workshops, and compliance resources for trade professionals.

Connect with us on LinkedIn, LinkedIn (GTC), YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts,join the Trade Geeks community, or email us at [email protected].

Don’t forget to rate, review, and share with your fellow trade geeks!

Reach us at [email protected]

Host: Cindy Allen

In this week’s episode, Cindy Allen — the Taylor Swift of Trade — takes on one of her favorite Reputation-era tracks, Dancing With Our Hands Tied, to unpack the unseen world of data flows between trade and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).

From new Section 232 tariffs to the end of de minimis and the shift to consolidated entries, Cindy explains why brokers, importers, and CBP alike may feel like they’re “dancing with their hands tied” as vital data disappears from the targeting system.

This episode goes behind the scenes of CBP’s systems — ACE, AMS, ABI, ISF, ACAS — and explains why the current rules are creating blind spots, compliance headaches, and risks for global traders.

🏭 Section 232 Update – 400+ new tariff numbers added, including unexpected HTS lines tied to packaging

🚗 EU Trade Deal Rumblings – Automotive tariffs under review, with possible retroactive relief

📦 De Minimis Fallout – Why companies are moving shipments into Foreign Trade Zones and bonded warehouses

🔍 CBP Data Blind Spots – How the move from Type 86 to standard 01 entries reduces consignee-level visibility

🖥️ ACE & Targeting Explained – The difference between manifest-level data vs. entry summary data

✈️ Security vs. Commercial Data – Why legal firewalls prevent CBP from fully merging security filings with trade enforcement

📉 Operational Risks – Why less package-level data means tougher targeting for CBP and bigger compliance risks for e-commerce players

Importers and brokers are grappling with confusion around new 232 tariffs on products where aluminum/steel is incidental.

CBP’s targeting system relies heavily on house-level manifest data, and the shift away from Type 86 leaves blind spots.

Foreign Trade Zones and bonded warehouses are becoming popular cost-control strategies in the post-de minimis era.

Understanding how ACE, AMS, ABI, and targeting systems interact is critical for compliance and risk management.

Traders may want to consider voluntary data sharing to maintain smoother targeting outcomes, even if not required.

Section 232 Federal Register update on tariffs

EU automotive tariff negotiations

CBP guidance on Foreign Trade Zones and bonded warehouses

Background on ACE, AMS, ABI, ISF, and ACAS systems

Legal history on security vs. commercial data firewalls post-9/11

Known as the “Taylor Swift of Trade,” Cindy Allen brings clarity, edge, and insight to the week’s most pressing trade developments. With decades of experience, she helps industry professionals make sense of the chaos — with a little pop culture flair.  Cindy is CEO of Trade Force Multiplier 

New episodes every Friday

Reach us at [email protected]

Hosts: Lalo Solorzano & Andy Shiles

When Bonds Become Billion-Dollar News

Bonds may not be glamorous, but they’re the backbone of trade. In this episode, Lalo and Andy sit down with Jason Wieselman of International Bond & Marine to unpack why customs bonds are suddenly front-page news — and what every importer needs to know to keep shipments moving.

With tariffs surging and de minimis rules shifting, importers are facing unprecedented bond requirements — in some cases reaching hundreds of millions or even a billion dollars. Jason explains what this means for both large and small importers, why sureties are more involved than ever, and how logistics professionals can navigate the complexity without grinding their supply chains to a halt.

From errors & omissions insurance to the rise of the so-called “unicorn bond,” this conversation explores the risks, realities, and strategies every trade nerd should understand in today’s environment.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

Key Takeaways:

Higher tariffs directly impact bond requirements, sometimes by massive amounts.

Importers must calculate bond amounts carefully — don’t just accept CBP’s defaults.

The first billion-dollar bond signals a new era of risk management in trade.

Errors & omissions and cyber insurance are growing priorities for trade professionals.

Sureties and brokers are becoming more like strategic advisors than silent backers.

Resources & Mentions:

International Bond & Marine – Jason Wieselman’s company, specializing in customs bonds & marine insurance

CBP Customs Bonds Guidance – U.S. Customs official page on bond types and requirements

Errors & Omissions Insurance – Investopedia – Overview of E&O coverage for professionals

Cybersecurity & Trade – CISA – U.S. Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency resources

Credits

Hosts:

Lalo Solorzano – LinkedIn

Andy Shiles – LinkedIn

Guest:

Jason Wieselman – LinkedIn

Producer:

Lalo Solorzano

📢 Subscribe & Follow

New episodes every week.

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!

In this quick-hit Simply Trade [Tips] episode, hosts Renee Chuichiarelli and Julie Parks (“Hammer and Heels”) step back from tariff chaos to focus on something every trade professional needs: work sanity.

Trade never slows down—executive orders, shifting regulations, and the constant demand for answers can drain even the most seasoned compliance pro. Renee and Julie share three practical ways to protect your sanity, keep your energy up, and bring balance back to your daily grind.

Define Your Boundaries – Use tools like Outlook, OneNote, and task managers to prioritize, set limits, and protect your time.

Find Joy Outside Work – Surfing, gardening, creating—whatever gives you peace, schedule it in to recharge.

Take Care of Yourself – Sleep, nutrition, and mindfulness aren’t optional; they’re fuel for staying sharp in high-pressure environments.

👉 Choose one action item today:

Block time on your calendar.

Pick one joyful activity outside of work.

Schedule that doctor’s appointment or commit to better sleep/nutrition.

Then share your progress with the community.

Join the Trade Geeks Community at Global Training Center and tell Renee & Julie:

Did you set a new boundary?

What’s bringing you joy outside of trade?

How are you taking better care of yourself?

Producer: Lalo Solorzano

New TIPS episodes every Tuesday.

Presented by: Global Training Center — providing education, consulting, workshops, and compliance resources for trade professionals.

Connect with us on LinkedIn, LinkedIn (GTC), YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts,join the Trade Geeks community, or email us at [email protected].

Don’t forget to rate, review, and share with your fellow trade geeks!

Reach us at [email protected]

Dive into an insightful conversation with Annik Sobing and Nathan Chaney, supply chain advocate and podcast host, as he reveals how breaking down industry silos can revolutionize global trade. Learn about the critical importance of networking, the evolving landscape of supply chain management, and strategies for connecting professionals across different sectors. Discover how innovative platforms like the Global Trade Cafe are transforming professional interactions, bridging gaps between trade compliance, logistics, and supply chain experts. Perfect for entrepreneurs, logistics professionals, and business leaders seeking to understand the power of meaningful professional connections in today's complex global trade environment.

Recommended Resources:

Check out our OnDemand Library at GTC! 👀🌎

📺⏰ Learn your own pace wit OnDemand: https://globaltrainingcenter.com/elearning-classes/  

Connect with Simply Trade Podcast:

- Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdmyGU5foKm4aFlpo7Oms4g

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/simply-trade-podcast/ 

- Twitter: https://twitter.com/SimplyTradePod 

- Website: https://globaltrainingcenter.com/simply-trade-podcast/

Contact Us/ Suggest Topics

Contact: [email protected]

Credits:

Host/Producer: Lalo Solorzano: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lalosolorzano/

Co-Producer/Editor: Mara Marquez: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maramarquez85/

Host: Annik Sobing - https://www.linkedin.com/in/annik-sobing-mba-b226251a2/ 

Host: Cindy Allen

This week, Cindy Allen — the Taylor Swift of Trade — takes inspiration from Taylor’s hit Look What You Made Me Do to unpack the global ripple effects of new U.S. trade policies. From Canadian boycotts to rerouted shipping lanes, canceled farm contracts, and the e-commerce shake-up, Cindy explains how global players are reshaping trade routes and relationships to avoid U.S. tariffs.

The result? A landscape where “look what you made me do” is more than a lyric — it’s the world’s response to American trade policy.

Port Fees & Rerouting – Why OOCL and other carriers are bypassing U.S. ports

Canada’s Workarounds – New trade agreements that sidestep the U.S., and the impact on U.S. brands

Tourism Declines – 33% drop from Canadian visitors, $29B hit to the economy

India’s 50% Tariffs – How boycotts and shifting consumer sentiment are changing market access

Farm Fallout – Canceled China soybean contracts, reduced crop insurance, and frozen subsidies

Automotive Industry Pressure – Sliding profits tied to 232 and reciprocal tariffs

Swiss Surprise – 39% reciprocal tariff and the pharmaceutical implications

E-Commerce Under Pressure – End of de minimis and CBP’s visibility challenges

Trade partners are actively bypassing the U.S. through alternative agreements and routes.

U.S. brands face boycotts and sales drops in Canada and India.

Agricultural exports are hit hard by contract cancellations and market shifts.

The end of de minimis changes how CBP sees — or doesn’t see — package-level data.

Some companies are adopting a “wait and see” approach rather than immediate supply chain overhauls.

USTR port fee announcement

Forbes article on tourism losses

Canadian provincial alcohol boycotts

CBP de minimis clearance rules & deadlines

Agricultural trade data and USAID policy changes

Known as the “Taylor Swift of Trade,” Cindy Allen brings clarity, edge, and insight to the week’s most pressing trade developments. With decades of experience, she helps industry professionals make sense of the chaos — with a little pop culture flair.  

New episodes every Friday

Reach us at [email protected]

In the Simply Trade Podcast episode, Lalo discusses the impact of recent trade policies and tariffs with Kristi App, Vice President of the NCBFAA, Board of Directors and COO of JW Allen. Christy highlights the challenges faced by small to medium-sized importers and exporters due to rapid policy changes and the importance of strategic shipping and trade zones. She also emphasizes the role of NCBFAA in lobbying for the industry and the collaboration with Canadian and Mexican customs brokers through the North American Customs Brokers Alliance. Christy shares her pride in women's leadership roles in trade and the importance of staying informed and adaptable in the current trade environment.

Kristi App: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristi-app-15820117/

Business Strategy

Industry Collaboration

Women in Leadership

Trade Policy Challenges

Professional Philosophy

In the midst of all this chaos, education is your best ally. Access Exclusive Resources Here ⏬ 

 Recommended Resources: Check out our OnDemand Library at GTC! 👀🌎 

📺⏰ Learn your own pace wit OnDemand: https://globaltrainingcenter.com/elearning-classes/   

👓🧠Surround yourself with other trade professionals: Join our Trade Geeks Community!  https://globaltrainingcenter.com/trade-geeks/ 

Connect with Simply Trade Podcast:

- Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdmyGU5foKm4aFlpo7Oms4g

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/simply-trade-podcast/ 

- Twitter: https://twitter.com/SimplyTradePod 

- Website: https://globaltrainingcenter.com/simply-trade-podcast/

Contact Us/ Suggest Topics

Contact: [email protected]

Credits:

Host/Producer: Lalo Solorzano: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lalosolorzano/

Co-Producer/Editor: Mara Marquez: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maramarquez85/