Episodes

  • [Cindy's Version] Long Live Trade & Friends

    [Cindy's Version] Long Live Trade & Friends
    Feb 6 2026
    Host: Cindy AllenGuests: Heather Litman & Sandra Langford-Coty Show: Simply Trade – Cindy’s Version Published: February 6, 2026 Length: ~13 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center Long Live: Celebrating Trade Wins with Your Industry Crew Cindy Allen, CEO of TradeForce Multiplier, delivers this week’s rapid-fire trade update through the lens of Taylor Swift’s “Long Live”—a song about shared victories and the bonds that make them possible. From congressional pushback on exclusions to critical minerals zones and a surprising U.S.-China thaw, Cindy breaks down what happened and what’s next.​ What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Express Carrier Bill faces pushback Peter Navarro publicly opposes the bill for simplified clearance parity with USPS, calling de minimis a zombie issue that “won’t die.”​ Congress demands exclusion transparency Senator Wyden’s letter calls the Section 232 exclusion process secretive and confusing—good news that Congress may step in for importers/exporters.​ USMCA hearing next week Senate Finance Committee will hear from pro-trade voices and domestic industry reps—watch for outcomes that could impact the agreement.​ EU moves fast on U.S. trade deal EU Parliament takes up negotiations internally to beat deadlines and avoid tariff retaliation seen with other countries.​ HTS updates published International Trade Commission released food/pharma changes effective February 1—check if you’re impacted via the International Trade Administration.​ Critical minerals preferential zone Administration (led by VP JD Vance) exploring enforceable price floors at every production stage—no details yet.​ India IEPA tariff reductions pending Rumored drop from 50% total to 18%, but no Federal Register notice or CSMS message yet—stay tuned for implementation guidance.​ U.S.-China relations thaw? Administration calls recent talks “extremely good,” signaling stability for China importers after a year of mixed signals.​ Why “Long Live”? Cindy ties the week’s developments to “Long Live,” focusing on celebrating successes with friends—especially critical now when industry networks help navigate chaos. Conferences and associations aren’t just for learning; they’re where you build the relationships that get you through volatile times.​ Key Takeaways: Momentum is building for more congressional oversight on exclusion processes—positive for transparency.​ Check HTS food/pharma updates immediately if affected; they’re already live.​ Critical minerals zone and India tariff details will drop soon—track Federal Register and CSMS closely.​ U.S.-China tone shift could mean stability, but verify with primary sources before adjusting strategy.​ Build your trade network now—when rules change monthly, friends in the industry are your real compliance superpower.​ Presented by: Global Training Center​ 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/
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    14 mins
  • [TIPS] Automation, Accuracy & the Future of Import/Export Filing

    [TIPS] Automation, Accuracy & the Future of Import/Export Filing
    Feb 3 2026
    Hosts

    Renee Chiuchiarelli & Julie Parks

    Episode Summary

    In this episode of Simply Trade Tips, Renee and Julie dive deeper into the intersection of trade and technology, focusing on how automation is reshaping import and export filing. From data ingestion and rules-based validation to AI-powered audit trails and workflow automation, they unpack where technology adds value—and where human judgment is still essential.

    This conversation makes one thing clear: automation isn’t about replacing trade professionals—it’s about eliminating rework, improving accuracy, and exposing bad data faster. Renee and Julie also explore how governments are leveraging AI and machine learning at scale, raising the stakes for importers and exporters to modernize their compliance processes.

    Key Topics Covered

    • Why most filing errors come from disconnected systems, not bad intent

    • Where automation shows up in customs declarations:

      • Data ingestion from ERP, supplier, and logistics systems

      • Rules-based validation (HS, origin, value checks)

      • AI-driven document digitization and data extraction

    • Different automation models in trade:

      • Customs filing platforms

      • Global Trade Management (GTM) systems

      • Broker-provided technology and hybrid outsource models

    • APIs vs. EDI and the evolution of data exchange

    • The role of AI and machine learning in:

      • Pattern recognition

      • Risk detection

      • Audit readiness and version control

    • How governments are using advanced technology to:

      • Screen transactions in real time

      • Apply compliance more consistently across ports

    • Why automation accelerates good decisions—but exposes bad master data even faster

    Key Takeaways

    • Automation improves consistency and speed, but does not replace regulatory judgment

    • Clean master data remains critical—technology can’t fix broken inputs

    • Leveraging broker technology can be a smart option for companies with limited budgets

    • Importers and exporters must modernize to keep pace with government enforcement tools

    • AI should be viewed as a strategic ally, not a threat, in trade compliance

    This Week’s FIO (Figure It Out)

    Pick one area of your trade process—classification, filing, auditing, FTAs, or document management—and kick the tires on automation.

    • Request a demo

    • Explore how AI could reduce rework

    • Evaluate whether broker, GTM, or hybrid models make sense for your organization

    The goal isn’t perfection—it’s understanding what’s possible.

    Join the Conversation

    Head over to the Trade Geeks Community and tell us:

    • What area of automation are you exploring?

    • What surprised you most about today’s discussion?

    Credits

    Hosts: Renee Chiuchiarelli Julie Parks

    Producer: Lalo Solorzano

    Subscribe & Follow

    New Simply Trade Tips episodes drop every Tuesday.

    Presented by: Global Training Center — education, consulting, workshops & 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 & share with your fellow trade geeks!

    Want to Be on the Show or Have Topic Suggestions?

    📧 SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com 🐦 Twitter/X: @SimplyTradePod
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    21 mins
  • ICPA Compliance Corazón: New Board Members, Careers, and a Fiesta of Global Trade

    ICPA Compliance Corazón: New Board Members, Careers, and a Fiesta of Global Trade
    Feb 2 2026
    Host: Annik Sobing Guests: Elisabeth Sherrell, Alicia Bryant, Kelsey Moraski Published: February 2026 Length: ~30 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center Partnership with ICPA ICPA Compliance Corazón: Community, Careers, and a Fiesta of Global Trade In this special Simply Trade Roundup, Annik sits down with ICPA’s new executive director, Elisabeth Sherrell, and board members Alicia Bryant and Kelsey Moraski to talk about what makes ICPA such a unique home for trade compliance professionals—and what to expect at the 2026 ICPA Annual Conference, “Compliance Corazón: Fiesta of Global Trade,” in San Antonio. From career-defining connections to real-world problem solving over breakfast, this episode shines a light on the people, purpose, and heart behind ICPA.​ What You’ll Learn in This Episode Who’s who at ICPA now Meet new executive director Elisabeth Sherrell and board members Alicia Bryant (Edgewell Personal Care) and Kelsey Moraski (global trade, supply chain, and risk). Why each of them joined the ICPA board and how they see the mission evolving.​ Why ICPA matters for your career How attending ICPA conferences helped Alicia earn her customs broker license and expand her role into broker auditing, FTAs, and classification. Why Kelsey calls ICPA one of the few places where people truly understand the real risk and gray areas compliance professionals live in every day.​ Inside the 2026 ICPA Annual Conference – San Antonio Dates: March 1–4, 2026 at the Grand Hyatt San Antonio on the River Walk. Theme: “Compliance Corazón – Fiesta of Global Trade” with a strong focus on community, culture, and practical problem solving. Content highlights: deep dives on Canada (including CARM and current China‑related developments), regional customs updates (e.g., Latin America sessions led by experts like Brenda Cordova), technology and AI in trade compliance, and navigating today’s “most exciting and challenging” era for trade.​ Registration is still open, but the hotel is smaller and spots are filling fast, with many attendees registering in the last 45 days. Virtual attendance remains an option for those who cannot travel.​ Culture, community, and the “Voices of Compliance” How ICPA grew from an idea shared by Elisabeth’s mom and co‑founder Linda into a global community where people show up for each other—professionally and personally. Plans to honor Elisabeth’s mother in San Antonio with a memorial moment and a new Voices of Compliance performance: a rewritten “Deep in the Heart of Texas” celebrating tariffs and trade (yes, with audience clapping).​ Stories of members supporting each other through life events and why “compliance with heart” isn’t just a tagline.​ Problem solving in person Why the real magic of ICPA happens in the hallways and at breakfast tables: people bring real problems, not just citations, and work through them together. Kelsey’s Alex Honnold analogy: compliance pros as the climbers who truly understand the risk, and ICPA as the rare room where everyone “speaks the same language.”​ Building the next generation of trade professionals How ICPA is actively bringing students and early‑career professionals into the fold, including full conference scholarships (like for student Jake Boggs, who left with multiple job offers). Elisabeth’s 20‑year vision: seeing “trade compliance professional” standing alongside firefighter and nurse on career day—and why she wants to introduce more young people to this path.​ Hot topics Alicia and Kelsey are watching at ICPA Technology and AI: why you can’t just “slap tech” on broken processes—garbage in, garbage out—and how companies are really rolling out tools in compliance. Volatility and gray areas: how different companies are interpreting risk, handling USMCA changes, and navigating fast‑moving geopolitical shifts, especially in Canada and beyond.​ ICPA Conference Details 2026 ICPA Annual Conference – Compliance Corazón: Fiesta of Global Trade Dates: March 1–4, 2026 Location: Grand Hyatt San Antonio, River Walk Format: In‑person with virtual option Focus: Practical sessions, regional experts, technology, risk, and a strong emphasis on networking, mentorship, and community.​ ICPA Europe Conference Location: Dresden Germany, April 8-10, Hilton ​ Credits Host: Annik Sobing Guests: Elisabeth Sherrell, Alicia Bryant, Kelsey Moraski Producer: Lalo Solorzano Subscribe & Follow New Roundup episodes every week. Presented by: Global Training Center — providing education, consulting, workshops, and compliance resources for trade professionals. 👉 www.GlobalTrainingCenter.com Connect with us: Simply Trade Podcast on LinkedIn | Global Training Center on LinkedIn | YouTube | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Trade Geeks Community Questions about ICPA or the conference? Reach out to ICPA leadership or message us and we’...
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    31 mins
  • [Cindy's Version] Exile feat.The United States

    [Cindy's Version] Exile feat.The United States
    Jan 30 2026
    Host: Cindy Allen Show: Simply Trade – Cindy’s Version Published: January 30, 2026 Length: ~13 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center Exile: Is the U.S. Being Traded Around? In this week’s Cindy’s Version, Cindy Allen, CEO of TradeForce Multiplier, unpacks one of the busiest weeks we’ve seen in international trade—and frames it all through the lens of Taylor Swift’s song “Exile.” From fresh tariff threats to shifting alliances and possible government shutdowns, Cindy explains why it’s starting to feel like the United States is watching global trade move on without us.​ What You’ll Learn in This Episode: New U.S. tariff threats tied to Cuban oil Announcement of tariffs on countries that sell or buy oil from Cuba and why this may largely hit usual suspects like Venezuela and Russia.​ Trade partners going “around” the U.S. How the UK’s outreach to China and Canada’s new deal with China signal a trend of countries pursuing their own economic interests directly with Beijing.​ Canada under pressure—again Trump’s 100% tariff threat on Canadian goods over the China deal and the newer threat to decertify Canadian-made jets until Gulfstream aircraft are certified in Canada—and why both moves raise legal and practical questions.​ Shifting tariff landscapes Guatemala and El Salvador trade deals and expected rate ranges. Possible hike back to 25% on South Korean goods if their trade deal isn’t approved. Potential rollback of the 25% tariff on India tied to Russian oil purchases.​ 232 duties and a big valuation court fight Why CBP centers are informally pushing an “all-in” cost model (materials, labor, manufacturing) for steel, aluminum, and now copper derivatives—and how that conflicts with the 232 declaration language. The new Court of International Trade case challenging that interpretation and what it could mean for importers paying 232 on components. Why many companies are considering filing protests now to preserve their rights pending the outcome—and why you need to talk to your own counsel.​ ACE refunds are coming—ready or not Electronic refunds are set to go live February 6. What importers need to do with their brokers and 4811 setup, and why brokers must confirm their own information is on file in ACE. The big question: what happens to refunds if the setup is incomplete?​ EU deal on pause Why the EU is putting its U.S. deal “on hold” and how that could trigger a return to higher tariffs if the U.S. responds like it has with South Korea.​ Hill updates: express couriers and DHS funding A new bill proposal for simplified declarations on express shipments under 600 dollars, and what it could mean if you use or compete with express couriers. The looming DHS/CBP funding issue, the likelihood of a shutdown, and what a shutdown typically means for cargo processing versus outreach and meetings.​ Why “Exile”? Cindy connects the week’s news to “Exile,” focusing on the line, “You were my town, now I’m in exile seeing you out.” She explores how U.S. policy is driven by a belief that the country has been taken advantage of and needs to re-shore manufacturing and secure critical sectors, while much of the world sees it as a pullback from free trade and trade facilitation that once underpinned global stability.​ By contrasting these two perspectives—like the two voices in the song—Cindy argues the U.S. risks finding itself “in exile” as trade partners build new frameworks around us, and warns that we’ve “seen this film before” in history with outcomes that weren’t ideal.​ Key Takeaways: Expect more volatility in tariffs and trade relationships as the U.S. pushes assertive trade tools and partners seek alternative paths.​ Importers dealing with 232 duties on steel, aluminum, and copper inputs should closely watch the new court case and coordinate with counsel on protest strategy.​ ACE electronic refunds are an opportunity and a risk—data and 4811 setups must be right to avoid missing money you’re owed.​ Even in a shutdown, cargo should keep moving, but engagement with CBP and DHS will be limited.​ Strategically, the U.S. may be drifting into a kind of trade “exile”—and it’s critical for companies to understand both the domestic narrative and how the rest of the world is reacting. -------- Presented by: Global Training Center​ 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...
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    13 mins
  • Unlocking Trade Documents: How DocUnlock Uses AI to Tackle Compliance Chaos

    Unlocking Trade Documents: How DocUnlock Uses AI to Tackle Compliance Chaos
    Jan 30 2026
    Hosts: Andy Shiles Lalo Solorzano Guest(s): Jack Moberger, Co-Founder, DocUnlock Ned Cartmell, Co-Founder, DocUnlock Sepehr Fakour, Co-Founder, DocUnlock Published: January 2026 Length: ~40 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center Episode Summary In this episode of Simply Trade, Andy and Lalo sit down with the founders of DocUnlock to explore one of the most painful realities in global trade: document chaos. From commercial invoices and packing lists to certificates, statements, and agency-specific requirements, trade compliance still lives in PDFs, emails, spreadsheets, and inboxes. Jack, Ned, and Sepehr break down how DocUnlock is using AI to extract, structure, validate, and operationalize trade documents — turning static paperwork into usable compliance data. The conversation dives into real-world brokerage and importer pain points, why “document accuracy” is no longer enough, and how automation is shifting expectations across customs, PGAs, and supply chain partners. This episode is a must-listen for anyone dealing with high-volume imports, broker workflows, or compliance teams stretched thin. Key Takeaways Trade compliance is still dominated by unstructured documents — and that’s the bottleneck. AI can extract and normalize data without replacing trade expertise. Document automation reduces risk, speeds releases, and improves audit readiness. Brokers and importers benefit differently — but both win when documents are usable data. The future of compliance isn’t fewer documents — it’s smarter ones. What DocUnlock Is Solving Commercial invoices & packing lists Certificates & trade declarations Broker-importer document handoffs Audit readiness & data traceability Scaling compliance without scaling headcount Resources & Mentions DocUnlock – AI-powered trade document automation 👉 https://www.docunlock.com Jack Moberger, Co-Founder, DocUnlock 👉 https://www.linkedin.com/in/jmoberger/ Ned Cartmell, Co-Founder, DocUnlock 👉 https://www.linkedin.com/in/ned-cartmell-91179711/ Sepehr Fakour, Co-Founder, DocUnlock 👉 https://www.linkedin.com/in/sepehr-f/ Global Training Center – Trade & compliance education 👉 https://www.globaltrainingcenter.com/ Credits Hosts: Andy Shiles – https://www.linkedin.com/in/andyshiles/ Lalo Solorzano – https://www.linkedin.com/in/jmoberger/ Ned Cartmell (DocUnlock) – https://www.linkedin.com/in/ned-cartmell-91179711/ Sepehr Fakour (DocUnlock) – https://www.linkedin.com/in/sepehr-f/ Produced by: Global Training Center – https://www.globaltrainingcenter.com/ 📢 Subscribe & Follow Stay connected with the Simply Trade community: Global Training Center on LinkedIn 👉 https://www.linkedin.com/company/global-training-center?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast Simply Trade on YouTube 👉 https://www.youtube.com/@simplytradepod?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast Simply Trade on Spotify 👉 https://open.spotify.com/show/09m199JO6fuNumbcrHTkGq?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast Simply Trade on Apple Podcasts 👉 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/simply-trade/id1640329690?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast Trade Geeks Community 👉 https://globaltrainingcenter.com/portal/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast
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    39 mins
  • [TIPS] Trade & Tech Series: Using Technology to Unlock Duty Mitigators

    [TIPS] Trade & Tech Series: Using Technology to Unlock Duty Mitigators
    Jan 28 2026
    Episode Title: Trade & Tech Series: Using Technology to Unlock Duty Mitigators Hosts: Renee Chiuchiarelli & Julie Parks (Hammer & Heels) Published Date: January 27, 2026 Episode Length: ~11 minutes Series: Trade & Tech 🔍 Episode Summary In this episode of Simply Trade Tips, Renee and Julie dive into duty mitigators and how technology is transforming the way trade professionals manage voluntary customs programs. From drawback and foreign trade zones to Chapter 98 provisions and free trade agreements, the conversation focuses on how tech-enabled subprocesses can reduce risk, improve compliance, and make mitigator programs operationally feasible. The key takeaway? Mitigators aren’t just about duty savings — they’re about building smart, data-driven compliance strategies that align labor, systems, and business objectives. 📌 Key Topics Covered What duty mitigators really are — and why they’re often misunderstood The role of voluntary programs in customs compliance How technology supports complex mitigators like: Drawback programs Foreign Trade Zones (FTZs) Chapter 98 provisions (including TIBs and returns) Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) First Sale for Export Why accurate HTS classification is a mitigator in itself How tech helps create stronger business cases for mitigator programs In-house vs. outsourced compliance — and why tech matters in both 💡 Key Takeaways Mitigators require structured subprocesses — technology makes them scalable Tech connects core business systems so import and export data work together Good data in = good data out (and bad data creates risk fast) Mitigators shouldn’t be dismissed due to overhead — tech changes the math Asking vendors how they leverage technology can impact pricing and value 🛠️ This Week’s FIO (Figure It Out) Pick one mitigator and analyze it using your own data. Review your ACE data or internal trade data Identify one potential mitigator (drawback, FTZ, TIB, FTA, etc.) Determine if your import and export activity supports it Assess whether technology could make it viable and compliant Remember: not all mitigators apply to all duties — understanding eligibility is key. 🌐 Join the Conversation Be part of the discussion inside the Trade Geeks Community and let us know how your FIO analysis goes. We’ll be sharing episodes, insights, and real-world trade conversations there. 👉 Trade Geeks Community: https://globaltrainingcenter.com/portal/ 🎤 Credits Hosts: Renee Chiuchiarelli Julie Parks Producer: Lalo Solorzano 🎧 Subscribe & Follow New Simply Trade Tips episodes every Tuesday. Presented by: Global Training Center — education, consulting, workshops & 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 & share with your fellow trade geeks! 💡 Want to Be on the Show or Have Topic Suggestions? 📧 Email us at SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com 🐦 Follow us on X (Twitter): @SimplyTradePod
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    11 mins
  • From Basement Brokerage to Tech-Powered Expansion: Welke's Next-Gen Trade Playbook

    From Basement Brokerage to Tech-Powered Expansion: Welke's Next-Gen Trade Playbook
    Jan 26 2026
    Host: Annik Sobing Guest: Jordan Welke Published: January 26, 2026 Length: ~30 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center ACE Up Your Trade Game: Modernizing Family Logistics This week on Simply Trade, host Annik Sobing chats with Jordan Welke, next-generation leader of Welke Customs Brokers & International Freight Forwarders, about evolving a family-owned logistics firm in a changing trade landscape. From rented desks symbolizing rapid 2025 growth to blending old-school service with cutting-edge tech, Jordan shares how Welke transformed challenges into expansion. Whether you're scaling a brokerage, managing hybrid teams, or navigating tariffs, this episode reveals strategies for staying nimble, compliant, and people-focused amid industry shifts.​ What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Origins of Welke: Founded in 1985 from a basement brokerage to North America's magazine specialist 2025 breakout: Two new U.S. offices, 10 hires, NV OCC licensing for freight forwarding Hybrid culture: Three office days, flying teams for unity despite remote options Tech-service blend: Automating data entry to free staff for concierge client care Growth drivers: Capturing clients from acquired competitors, handling supply chain chaos Branding edge: Fun website vibes (shipping container dreams) driving inbound leads Leadership scaling: Empower divisional managers while communicating 5-year vision company-wide Adapting to pitfalls: Nimble mindset, owning mistakes, constant education like CVSA exams Future-proofing: Compliance tech, agency feeds, and hiring hustlers for U.S. sales​ Tips for Getting Started: Honor roots: Pair personalized service with AI for mundane tasks—keep humans on exceptions. Build online presence: SEO-optimize with personality to stand out in searches. Scale smart: Hire/promote leaders per office, share vision to preserve "mom-and-pop" feel. Stay adaptable: Embrace failure as learning; invest in team training amid tariffs/strikes. Respond fast: Answer crisis calls instantly—turn disruptions into loyalty wins.​ Key Takeaways: Welke proves family businesses thrive by modernizing without losing heart—40 profitable years into 2026 growth. Tech enhances, doesn't replace, expert people in complex trade. Nimbleness, culture, and quick service capture market share as boomers retire and chaos rises. Data-driven branding and automation build credibility for enterprise plays.​ Resources & Mentions: Jordan Welke: Connect on LinkedIn (search Welke Customs Brokers) Welke Customs Brokers: www.welke.com — Customs brokerage, freight forwarding, 3PL across North America Hiring: U.S. freight/customs sales roles open—DM Jordan for culture-fit hustlers Industry context: Tariffs, CARM, supply disruptions boosting demand for agile partners​ Credits Host: Annik Sobing Guest: Jordan Welk Producer: Annik Sobing Subscribe & Follow New episodes weekly! Presented by: Global Training Center 👉 www.GlobalTrainingCenter.com Connect: Simply Trade Podcast LinkedIn Global Training Center LinkedIn YouTube Spotify Apple Podcasts Trade Geeks Community Rate, review, share with your trade geeks! 📩 SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com @SimplyTradePod
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    39 mins
  • [Cindy's Version] The Moment the World Knew: U.S. Trade Loses Its Pull

    [Cindy's Version] The Moment the World Knew: U.S. Trade Loses Its Pull
    Jan 23 2026
    Host: Cindy Allen Published: Friday, January 23, 2026 Segment: Simply Trade – Cindy’s Version (song: “The Moment I Knew”) In this episode of Simply Trade – Cindy’s Version, Cindy Allen uses Taylor Swift’s “The Moment I Knew” to frame a sobering realization: the rest of the world is increasingly moving on with trade—without the United States at the center. She opens with concrete developments, including Canada and China finalizing a trade agreement as China becomes Canada’s number one trade partner, and a large EU delegation touring Asia (China, Vietnam, and others) to explore a broad EU–Asia trade bloc arrangement.​ On the policy front, Cindy notes the administration has walked back its threat to impose tariffs on NATO countries that opposed a U.S. move to “buy” Greenland, easing immediate sovereignty‑driven tension. But legislative activity is heating up: Senator Cassidy’s customs bill, a proposed import licensing regime (including possible restrictions on non‑resident importers) that could morph from “trusted trader” incentives into a broad tariff scheme, and a new proposal to apply a 20% flat rate on express courier imports, mirroring the postal model and positioned as a de minimis replacement. She explains how the elimination of de minimis has already hit express integrators hard—FedEx alone reported a one‑billion‑dollar “headwind,” with average de minimis values around 25 dollars now requiring full entries on vast volumes of low‑value packages.​ Cindy also touches on potential one‑year extensions of AGOA and the Haiti Help Act, still being tracked through budget legislation, and confirms the IEPA Supreme Court decision did not appear before the Court went out of session, pushing any announcement into mid‑to‑late February at the earliest. She warns that the longer the delay, the more likely a significantly drawn‑out process for any eventual tariff relief, even if importers prevail. Meanwhile, CBP continues ramping up 28s and enforcement on steel and aluminum 232s, with early, non‑binding indications from the Base Metals Center that raise new questions about how to back out raw material costs and properly calculate dutiable value—prompting AAEI to form a working group to engage CBP.​ The emotional core of the episode comes from Davos, where Cindy sees “the moment” the global system recognized a fundamental break: the U.S. arrived with a strong America‑First message that was audibly booed by attendees, while other leaders—especially Canada’s prime minister—signaled a deep sense of betrayal and a hard pivot toward building trade agreements around, rather than through, Washington. For Cindy, this is the moment the world “knew” the old gravitational pull of U.S. trade leadership may not return even after this administration or the next election cycle: global trade volumes and cooperation remain strong, but the center of gravity is shifting as partners organize new paths forward.​ What You’ll Learn in This Episode Key new developments: Canada–China agreement, EU–Asia trade bloc talks, and the rollback of threatened NATO tariffs over Greenland.​ How proposed U.S. import licensing, non‑resident importer limits, and a 20% courier flat rate could reshape tariff burdens and de minimis workarounds.​ Why express couriers have been hit so hard by de minimis elimination, and what a flat‑rate model might change.​ The latest on IEPA Supreme Court timing, 232 steel/aluminum enforcement, and AAEI’s efforts to clarify valuation expectations.​ Why Davos 2026 may mark the “moment the world knew” U.S. trade leadership has fundamentally changed—and what that means for future agreements.​ Key Takeaways Traditional allies are actively deepening trade with China and Asia, signaling a more multipolar trade system.​ U.S. legislative proposals could push more cost and complexity onto importers and express carriers, even as they seek new facilitation models.​ IEPA relief, if it comes, will likely be slow and process‑heavy; companies should not bank on quick cash refunds.​ Global forums like Davos are now openly questioning U.S. reliability as a trade partner, accelerating moves to diversify away from U.S. gravity. ---------------------------------------- Presented by: Global Training Center​ 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 ...
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    12 mins