Trade Splaining

By Ardian Mollabeqiri & Robert Skidmore

A fun and entertaining look at global affairs, trade and the United Nations, brought to you from the perspective of two American expats living in Switzerland. They try to keep a straight face while re... more

4.9

3030 ratings

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FAQs about Trade Splaining:

How many episodes does Trade Splaining have?

The podcast currently has 77 episodes available.

Trade Splaining episodes:

March 20, 2025The Green Transition, Customs Fraud & Why Tariffs Might Save the WTO (sort of)
Episode Summary:
In this episode of Trade Splaining, we unpack the latest twists in the Green Transition—spoiler alert: China’s winning. We also explore how chaos is reshaping global trade, why Manchester United’s new stadium might cost a fortune (hint: tariffs), and the Swiss government's crackdown on... cheap meat?
Our guest, Professor Joost Pauwelyn, joins us to break down 21st-century customs fraud, how trade rules are shifting, and why the WTO may actually survive this era of economic uncertainty.
If you’ve ever wondered how renewable energy, geopolitics, and tariffs intersect—or whether you should still care about composting—this episode is for you.
🔹 In This Episode:
China’s dominance in the Green Transition and why Europe is struggling to keep up
The hidden cost of Manchester United’s new stadium—tariffs, steel prices, and trade wars
Switzerland’s unexpected role as the world's top container trader
What’s happening with customs fraud, sustainability standards, and the rise of "trade surveillance"
The future of WTO, and why reciprocal tariffs might actually save it
And, of course, a deep dive into Geneva’s most pressing issue—affordable meat
🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

🔗 Links & Mentions:
Follow us on Twitter/X
Join the conversation on Instagram
Have a hot take? Email us at [email protected]
...more
39min
February 24, 2025 The Trade War Heats Up, China’s Biotech Rise & Switzerland’s Beaver Problem
Episode 75: Tariffs, Work From Home & Beaver Hunting?
Episode Summary:
In this episode of Tradesplaining, Rob and Ardi tackle tariffs, Gen Z’s middle management crisis, and the work-from-home debate. As Trump’s economic policies continue reshaping global trade, we look at the real-world impact of escalating tariffs, Canada and Mexico’s shifting strategies, and how businesses are struggling to adapt.
Plus, we dive into:
✅ The collapse of the $80B diamond market – Are diamonds not forever?
✅ Jamie Dimon vs. Work From Home – Why America’s biggest bank CEO really doesn’t believe you work on Fridays
✅ Gen Z’s "Middle Management Revolt" – Why young professionals are rejecting promotions
✅ China’s Biotech Boom – The next frontier in U.S.-China competition
✅ Switzerland's Legalization of...Beaver Hunting?! – Yes, this is a real story.
All this, plus a deep dive into the latest global trade shifts, economic uncertainty, and what it means for businesses, workers, and everyday consumers.
What’s Inside This Episode?
💰 Tariff Wars 2.0 – The U.S. is escalating trade restrictions at breakneck speed. We analyze:
👉 How tariffs on Canada, Mexico & China are upending supply chains
👉 The U.K.’s balancing act between Washington and Brussels
👉 What Trump’s “reciprocal tariff” plan could mean for global trade
🏡 Work From Home Under Fire – Are remote workers actually working on Fridays?
👉 Jamie Dimon of JP Morgan doesn’t think so, and his latest comments are sparking a new work-from-home war.
👉 Is there a growing divide between remote workers and office culture?
👔 Gen Z’s Rejection of Middle Management – A shocking new study says:
👉 50% of Gen Z white-collar workers don’t ever want to be middle managers
👉 Many view it as "high stress, low reward" – are they wrong?
👉 What does this mean for the future of leadership & corporate structures?
💎 The Diamond Market Crash – Why the $80B diamond industry is imploding post-COVID.
👉 De Beers is struggling – is this the end of an era?
👉 Are lab-grown diamonds taking over?
💊 China’s Biotech Boom – China now produces 30% of the world’s new drug patents, up from 5% just a decade ago.
👉 Can U.S. tariffs slow China’s rise in pharmaceuticals?
👉 Is biotech the next big U.S.-China trade war battleground?
🇨🇭 Switzerland News Roundup – Only in Switzerland…
👉 Legalizing Cannabis – but is Switzerland ready for a nationwide rollout?
👉 Legalizing Beaver Hunting?! – Yes, really. It’s happening.
🎙️ And, of course, plenty of listener feedback, jokes, and the best trade analysis that won’t put you to sleep!
...more
30min
February 06, 2025 Tomato Tariffs, AI's Sputnik Moment and Taliban Tourism
Episode Summary:
In this episode of Trade Splaining, hosts Rob and Ardi dive into the latest on tariffs, AI disruptions, and surprising tourism trends. We break down the new wave of tariffs, their impact on global trade, and what they signal for U.S. economic strategy. Plus, we explore China’s DeepSeek AI breakthrough, the EU’s struggle to stay competitive, and Switzerland’s unexpected move to expand free trade amid growing protectionism.
We also speak with Ed Gresser, VP of the Progressive Policy Institute, who helps unpack tariff escalation, economic shifts, and the power of data in today’s rapidly evolving trade landscape.
Oh, and we discuss how Afghanistan is suddenly a booming tourist destination (yes, really) and why Jaguar just dropped $80 million on custom car paint.
Expect deep insights, witty banter, and the kind of trade talk that actually keeps you awake.
What’s Inside This Episode?
🔥 Tariffs & Trade Wars 2.0 – The U.S. is going all-in on tariffs, but will it backfire? We analyze who gets hit hardest and why Mexico is taking a one-month pause before retaliating.
🧠 AI’s "Sputnik Moment" – China’s DeepSeek AI has shaken the global tech world, wiping out $1 trillion in U.S. tech stocks. Are U.S. chip restrictions failing? And what does this mean for the future of AI dominance?
🇪🇺 Europe’s Economic Identity Crisis – Is the EU finally rethinking its strict regulations? We break down how France and others are pushing for fewer rules and bigger corporate champions to compete globally.
🇨🇭 Switzerland’s Trade Play – While everyone else tightens their borders, Switzerland is expanding free trade agreements, doubling down on market access amid rising global tensions.
✈️ Tourism in Taliban-Controlled Afghanistan? – Believe it or not, thousands of tourists are flocking to Afghanistan. We examine who’s going and why.
🎨 Luxury or Lunacy? Jaguar’s $80M Paint Investment – While most of the world worries about inflation, Jaguar is out here spending millions to offer more custom paint jobs. A smart branding move or just another sign of widening wealth gaps?
🎙️ Guest Spotlight: Ed Gresser (PPI) – We talk tariff escalation, trade shifts, and why data matters more than ever in economic policymaking.
Episode Highlights:
📌 [02:00] – AI’s “Humanity’s Last Exam” – Should we be worried?
📌 [09:00] – U.S. Tariffs & the Ripple Effect – The winners and losers
📌 [16:00] – Europe’s Economic Shift – Less regulation, more competition?
📌 [19:00] – Switzerland’s Trade Gambit – A lone free trader in a protectionist world
📌 [24:00] – Why Afghanistan Tourism is Surging
📌 [26:00] – Interview with Ed Gresser – The Future of Tariffs & Trade
...more
46min
January 21, 20252025 Predictions Episode
Welcome to Trade Splaining, the podcast that makes sense of international trade, business, and expat life without putting you to sleep! In our first episode of 2025, Rob and Ardi dive into a new year of trade predictions, global trends, and some surprising insights about life, business, and...sausages?
In This Episode:
2025 Trade Predictions: What’s in store for global trade and why tariffs, insurance, and inflation will dominate discussions.
China’s Record Trade Surplus: How near $1 trillion exports reveal vulnerabilities in domestic demand and fuel trade tensions.
The Role of Insurance in Climate Economics: With the world heating up, we explore the escalating costs and the ripple effects of uninsurability.
Labor vs. Capital: As 2025 unfolds, who has the upper hand, and what does it mean for workers?
New Apps, Old Vibes: Michelle talks about the shifting digital landscape and why the U.S. government’s TikTok actions may have unintended consequences for cultural learning.
Other Highlights:
A look back at tantalum, the rare metal behind cutting-edge watches and electronics.
Sausage bars in Geneva? Yes, it’s a thing now!
Why Eurovision in Switzerland might just be worth your time (or not).
Fun Fact: This is episode 73, the atomic number of tantalum, tying it all back to international trade and rare resources!
Listener Call-to-Action:
Got predictions for 2025? Or thoughts on tariffs, tantalum, or Taylor Swift’s rumored climate anthem? Let us know!
Email us at [email protected]
Follow us on Twitter (@Tradesplaining) and Instagram (@trade.splaining)
Where to Listen:
You can find Trade Splaining on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend (or a stranger).
Listen Responsibly
...more
23min
December 31, 2024Predicting Economic Trends, Indigenous Art, and the Revival of Mercantilism
Episode 72: Predicting Economic Trends, Indigenous Art, and the Revival of Mercantilism
In this week’s episode of Trade Splaining, Rob and Ardian explore the latest quirks and complexities of global trade and economics, with a special focus on cultural preservation.
🎙️ What You’ll Hear:
💄 Lipstick Economics: How luxury consumer trends hint at economic uncertainty.
🌍 Mercantilism Returns: Why nations are revisiting protectionist policies and what it means.
🎨 Spotlight on Indigenous Art: Special guest James Johnson, Tlingit artist and carver, shares his journey of balancing cultural preservation with global market opportunities.
🔑 Key Takeaways:
The luxury market is shrinking, signaling potential shifts in consumer confidence.
Mercantilist policies are reshaping trade and economic relations worldwide.
Indigenous artists like James Johnson are trailblazing pathways for cultural exchange and representation in global markets.
🎧 Listen Now:
Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or anywhere you get your podcasts.
🔍 SEO Keywords:
Lipstick Economics
Mercantilism in Modern Trade
Indigenous Art in Global Markets
Tlingit Culture and Trade
Luxury Market Trends
Economic Forecasting
Global Trade Policy Podcast
Stay informed, stay curious, and, as always, listen responsibly! 🎙️
...more
46min
December 06, 2024Tarantulas, Tariffs, and Trade Wars: Ambassador Maria Pagan on Global Trade’s Future
Episode 71: Tarantulas, Tariffs, and Trade Wars: Ambassador Maria Pagan on Global Trade’s Future
In this week’s episode of Tradesplaining, Rob and Ardi tackle the unexpected, the essential, and the downright quirky in global trade and policy. Joined by Ambassador Maria Pagan, U.S. representative to the WTO, this episode offers insights and plenty of laughs as they explore:
🎙️ What’s Inside:
Tarantula Smuggling Gone Wild 🕷️: A man caught with 300 tarantulas at customs? Learn how the global wildlife trade intersects with international regulations.
COP29 Climate Talks 🌱: From funding gaps to policy fatigue, we break down the major takeaways from the latest climate conference and what it means for global sustainability.
Cheese and Tariffs 🧀: Why Parmesan is being hoarded in response to shifting trade policies.
National Security in Trade 🛡️: Ambassador Pagan explains how national security exceptions are reshaping trade policy and the role of the WTO in dispute resolution.
Globalization Trends 🌍: Are new tech jobs like TikTok QVC hosts the latest iteration of globalization?
🔑 Key Takeaways:
The U.S. perspective on the WTO’s role in dispute resolution.
How climate goals are stalling at COP29 and what needs to happen next.
Quirky stories that make trade more relatable, from smuggled wildlife to unusual customs cases.
🎧 Listen Now:
Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and everywhere you get your podcasts. Don’t forget to leave a review and share with friends who love global stories with a twist!
📌 Follow Us:
Twitter: @Tradesplaining
Instagram: @trade.splaining
Email: [email protected]
🔍 Keywords:
COP29 Climate Talks
National Security Trade Policy
Ambassador Maria Pagan WTO
Tarantula Smuggling Stories
Global Trade Podcast
Parmesan Cheese Tariffs
TikTok Globalization Trends
Climate Finance Challenges
Wildlife Trade Regulations
Sustainable Trade Practices
Stay informed, stay entertained, and as always—listen responsibly! 🎙️
...more
45min
November 14, 2024Diverging Economies: US vs. EU, Turkey’s BRICS Pivot, and New Globalization Narratives ft. Nicholas Lamp
Episode 70: Diverging Paths, Turkey’s BRICS Aspirations, and Narratives on Globalization ft. Nicholas Lamp
Welcome to Episode 70 of Trade Splaining! In this episode, Rob and Ardi are joined by Nicholas Lamp, Associate Professor at Queen’s University, to discuss diverging economic approaches, shifting trade narratives, and some unexpected trends.
Key Topics Covered:
US vs. EU Economic Divergence: As the U.S. and Europe take increasingly different approaches to economic policy, what does this mean for a unified Western strategy?
Turkey and the BRICS: Turkey’s aspirations to join the BRICS highlight a shift toward a multipolar global economy. How could this reshape alliances and influence trade?
Narratives on Globalization: Nicholas Lamp offers fresh insights on how public and political perspectives on globalization are evolving, as seen in his book, Six Faces of Globalization.
Special Guest:
Nicholas Lamp, an expert in international trade law, joins us to unpack the changing narratives around globalization and share his take on what the future holds for global trade.
Highlights:
Insights into the U.S.-EU economic policy gap.
Turkey’s pivot to BRICS and its implications for NATO and Western alliances.
A deeper look at the forces shaping public and political discourse on globalization, from labor rights to climate concerns.
A humorous dive into the quirky concept of the “selmelier” (salt sommelier) and other local news.
🔊 Tune in now for an episode packed with trade insights, policy debates, and some light-hearted moments!
Keywords:
US-EU Economic Divergence
Turkey BRICS Membership
Globalization Narratives
International Trade Podcast
Nicholas Lamp
BRICS Alliance
WTO
Global Trade Dynamics
Trade Policy Trends
Global Economic Shifts
📌 Call to Action: Stay informed—subscribe to Tradesplaining on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform. Share your thoughts and leave a review!
Follow us on social media for more updates and insights:
Twitter: @Tradesplaining
Instagram: @trade.splaining
#GlobalTrade #TradePolicy #BRICS #Globalization #NicholasLamp #EconomicDivergence #TurkeyBRICS #Podcast #USTrade #EUTrade #SupplyChain #BusinessPodcast
...more
48min
October 08, 2024Re-Globalization, Chinese Stimulus, and Worker-Centered Trade Policy ft. Ambassador Maria Pagan
Welcome to Trade Splaining Episode 69!
In this episode, hosts Rob and Ardian are joined by Ambassador Maria Pagan, U.S. representative to the WTO, to discuss a wide range of timely topics in global trade.
Key Topics Covered:
Re-Globalization: What does the post-pandemic world look like? We explore how trade rules must evolve to meet the needs of 2024 and beyond.
China’s Economic Stimulus: As China pushes stimulus packages to revitalize its slowing economy, what will this mean for global trade dynamics?
Worker-Centered Trade Policy: Ambassador Pagan breaks down what the U.S. means by "worker-centered" trade policy and why it’s critical in today’s evolving economic landscape.
Special Guest:
Amb. Maria Pagan, who leads the U.S. mission to the WTO, shares her expert insight on how trade policy is shifting, addressing inequalities, and adapting to modern challenges like technology disruptions and geopolitical tensions.
Highlights:
The importance of adapting trade rules in light of modern challenges.
How China’s stimulus could impact global growth and trade.
A detailed discussion on worker-centered trade policies and their long-term benefits.
Amb. Pagan’s personal journey and what she’s learned from her extensive career in international trade.
🔊 Tune in now for thought-provoking discussions on the future of global trade!
📌 Call to Action: Don’t miss out on these timely insights—subscribe to Tradesplaining on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Be sure to leave a review and share with your network!
Follow us on social media for more updates and behind-the-scenes content:
Twitter: @Tradesplaining
Instagram: @trade.splaining
#GlobalTrade #TradePolicy #WTO #ReGlobalization #ChineseStimulus #WorkerCenteredPolicy #Podcast #AmbMariaPagan #InternationalBusiness #USTrade #TradeNegotiations #GlobalEconomy #EconomicStimulus #TradeReform #SupplyChain
...more
51min
September 23, 2024 Trade, National Security and the WTO Walk Into a Bar
Episode 68 – Trade, National Security, and the WTO Walk Into a Bar
Welcome to Trade Splaining – the podcast that makes sense of international trade, business, and expat life... without putting you to sleep.
In this special WTO Public Forum edition, your hosts, Rob and Ardian, dive deep into national security, global trade, and even kebabs. Episode 68 brings a lively discussion with special guests Dr. Mona Paulson from the London School of Economics and Professor Greg Messenger from the University of Bristol. This episode is packed with insights on the evolving dynamics of global trade, dispute resolution, and the intersection of trade and national security.
Episode Highlights:
- What’s New at the WTO Public Forum?: Mona and Greg give us the scoop from the heart of Geneva. From re-globalization to security exceptions, we get an insider look at what global leaders and policymakers are focusing on in 2024.
- National Security & Trade – A Growing Tension: Explore how national security is increasingly used as a rationale for trade decisions. Is it a legitimate concern or just an excuse for protectionism? Greg and Mona dissect the legal and political implications.
- Dispute Settlement Crisis at the WTO: With the U.S. absent from key discussions and a massive drop in disputes, is the WTO’s future in jeopardy? Our guests weigh in on the future of multilateralism and whether informal agreements are the new way forward.
- Climate Change and Trade: Developing countries are pushing for climate action within the WTO, but how do we reconcile economic security with environmental protection? Hear from our experts on how the global trade system is adapting to these urgent challenges.
- Is the WTO Appellate Body Done For?: With the U.S. blocking new appointments, how will trade disputes be settled? The rise of unilateral actions and side agreements points to a modular future, but what does that mean for global trade governance?
Key Quotes:
- "The WTO is at an inflection point – it's not about going back to normal, it's about moving forward with a new, inclusive vision for global trade."
- "National security has become the 'get-out-of-jail-free card' for trade restrictions. But is it really justified, or are we just seeing a rise in protectionism?"
About Our Guests:
- Dr. Mona Paulson: Assistant Professor at LSE, specializing in international economic law and trade policy. Her research delves into the intersections of trade, development, and economic security.
- Professor Greg Messenger: Trade law expert at the University of Bristol, co-director of the Trade and Public Policy Network (TAP), and advisor on trade and sustainable development issues in the UK.
Connect With Us:
- Don’t miss an episode – subscribe to *Tradesplaining* on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app.
- Follow us on Twitter: @Tradesplaining for the latest updates and trade jokes.
- Got questions or feedback? Drop us an email at [email protected].

Listen, laugh, and learn – all in under an hour!
...more
39min
August 27, 2024 Cheese Wars, Coal's Comeback, and Strava Jockeys (It’s a thing)
Episode 67: Cheese Wars, Coal's Comeback, and Strava Jockeys (It’s a thing)
Welcome to Episode 67 of Tradesplaining! In this episode, hosts Rob and Ardian dive into some of the most intriguing and unexpected topics in international trade, business, and expat life.
Here’s what’s on the agenda:

- The Cheese War: Explore the brewing conflict over cheese consumption guidelines. With the U.S. FDA recommending zero servings of cheese, is a dairy showdown between Switzerland and Wisconsin on the horizon?
- Coal’s Comeback: Despite global efforts to transition to renewable energy, coal consumption has surged to record highs. Find out why countries like China and India are doubling down on coal, and what this means for the future of the energy sector.
- Strava Jockeys: Discover the latest trend in outsourcing your exercise routine. Learn how Strava users are hiring others to log their miles and compete with friends without breaking a sweat.
Special Segments:
- Listener Feedback: Rob and Artie share insights and responses from the Tradesplaining community, including thoughts on their recent interview with Dimitri.
- The Vibe Shift: Michelle introduces us to the concept of Strava Jockeys and how globalization is creating new job opportunities in unexpected areas.
- Local News: Dive into some bizarre yet true local stories from Geneva, including a snowball fight turned legal case and the challenges of Swiss egg quotas.

Don't miss out on future episodes! Subscribe to Tradesplaining on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. Be sure to leave a review and share the podcast with a friend. You can also find us on YouTube and follow us on social media: Twitter and Instagram.
For questions, comments, or just to say hi, drop us an email at [email protected].
Stay tuned, stay informed, and as always, listen responsibly!
...more
34min

FAQs about Trade Splaining:

How many episodes does Trade Splaining have?

The podcast currently has 77 episodes available.

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