Simply Trade

Host: Cindy Allen Published: Friday, January 16, 2026 Segment: Simply Trade – Cindy’s Version (song: “Mastermind”) In this episode of Simply Trade – Cindy’s Version, Cindy Allen uses Taylor Swift’s “Mastermind” to explore how intentional strategy—rather than accident—must drive both trade compliance and career development in 2026. She opens with a packed week in trade: the newly released semiconductor Section 232 action (where most chips are ultimately exempt but only after highly technical, engineering‑level analysis), a new Taiwan trade deal setting a 15% limit on imports (including auto parts) broadly aligned with South Korea, Japan, and the EU, and complex exemption mechanics for companies investing in U.S. semiconductor capacity that sit largely outside normal brokerage workflows.​ Cindy also updates listeners on continuing steel and aluminum valuation confusion—especially for components embedded in larger products—where CBP centers have held seminars but importers still struggle to see how to reach a defensible “reasonable care” standard. She notes that IEPA Supreme Court “decision watch” continues after yet another false alarm, mentions emerging chatter about possible duties on countries doing business with Iran (with almost no details available yet), and flags renewed legislative movement in Washington, including a potential AGOA/Haiti package and customs modernization/21CCF concepts championed by Senator Cassidy to give CBP new tools and drive better tech and visibility (ideally with real facilitation alongside enforcement).​ On the policy‑and‑politics front, Cindy briefly highlights breaking comments from President Trump floating tariffs on countries opposing U.S. acquisition of Greenland, underscoring how quickly trade risk can be introduced into the conversation—even before formal measures appear. She then shares personal reflections from the APEC A2C2 meeting in Mexico City, where she joined government and private‑sector representatives from Asia‑Pacific, Mexico, Canada, and the U.S., and was surprised and humbled to meet international listeners of Cindy’s Version in person.​ Tying it back to “Mastermind,” Cindy argues that trade compliance is a team sport: it relies on internal partners (procurement, logistics, product design, strategy, C‑suite) and external partners (brokers, trade associations, fellow practitioners) working together with intention, not by accident. She urges trade professionals to “level up” and become masterminds of both their company’s trade strategy and their own careers—building networks through conferences, local associations, and forums, and even creating new communities where none exist, as seen in the new Memphis customs brokers association under Amber Hagwood’s leadership. Cindy closes with a smile, embracing a new label she picked up in Mexico City: “trade social influencer”—and encouraging listeners to mastermind their own next chapter.​ What You’ll Learn in This Episode Key details and practical implications of the semiconductor 232 action and the new Taiwan trade deal, including complex exemptions for U.S. semiconductor investments.​ Where steel/aluminum component valuation stands, why “reasonable care” feels murky, and how CBP–trade communication is evolving.​ The latest on IEPA decision timing rumors, possible duties linked to Iran‑related trade, and movement on AGOA, Haiti, and 21CCF‑style customs modernization.​ Why trade compliance is a team sport that requires cross‑functional and external collaboration, not isolated heroics.​ How to apply the “Mastermind” mindset to your trade program and career—intentionally building networks, communities, and influence.​ Key Takeaways Semiconductor and Taiwan measures add yet another layer of technical and policy complexity, especially for high‑tech and auto supply chains.​ Reasonable care expectations are rising while guidance remains incomplete, making documentation, dialogue, and industry engagement critical.​ Legislative and political signals (from AGOA to Greenland tariffs) can quickly reshape risk; staying plugged into credible sources and associations is essential.​ Trade pros should see themselves not just as problem solvers, but as masterminds of strategy, community building, and their own professional journey.​ 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/​

Host: Annik Sobing Guest: Patrick Nieveler, CEO of Pasani Academy Published: January 2026 Length: ~20 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center Special Sponsor: PAX AI  In this Simply Trade News Roundup, host Annik Sobing talks with Patrick Nieveler, CEO of Pasani Academy, a European training organization focused on customs and foreign trade law, about how trade compliance education is evolving across the EU. Patrick explains how he went from heading European customs for a German automotive manufacturer to founding Pasani after realizing that traditional two‑day, in‑person seminars were too broad and inefficient for busy cross‑functional teams like purchasing, sales, and R&D. Pasani instead built short, digital e‑learning modules (60–90 minutes) tailored to specific roles, along with update content for seasoned customs experts as laws change.​ The conversation compares EU and U.S. approaches to training, noting that while systems differ, core topics like export controls, tariffs, and classification are strikingly similar—and that cross‑jurisdictional knowledge is increasingly vital in a globalized supply chain. Patrick highlights current hot topics driving demand in Europe: Russia and Iran sanctions, the EU Green Deal framework (including CBAM, deforestation, and eco‑design rules), and the upcoming multi‑year overhaul of EU customs law expected to roll out between 2028 and 2038, with initial frameworks anticipated in 2026. He also stresses that these “non‑customs” environmental and product rules still directly impact customs declarations and clearance processes.​ Patrick and Annik discuss how companies are using Pasani’s blended learning model—baseline e‑learning plus targeted live sessions—to ensure participants arrive with common foundational knowledge, preventing advanced learners from being bored and beginners from being left behind. They also explore why trade professionals on both sides of the Atlantic should understand each other’s regimes: EU exporters handling U.S.‑origin goods must respect U.S. rules, and U.S. firms trading with the EU must consider EU‑specific obligations.​ AI features prominently as well. Patrick shares how Pasani uses large language models to translate courses into multiple EU languages and is developing an AI chatbot that can answer day‑to‑day questions, point users to relevant training modules, and help bridge the gap between theory and real‑world decision‑making—while still requiring human review and judgment.​ What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why Patrick founded Pasani Academy and how short, role‑specific e‑learning fills a gap for cross‑functional trade training in Europe.​ How EU and U.S. customs/trade compliance systems compare, and why cross‑jurisdictional training is becoming essential.​ The top EU training topics right now: Russia/Iran sanctions, CBAM and Green Deal rules, deforestation and eco‑design regulations, and the planned EU customs law reform.​ How blended learning (baseline e‑learning + live sessions) solves the mixed‑knowledge problem in corporate training groups.​ How AI is being used to translate courses, support on‑the‑job Q&A, and connect everyday questions to deeper training content—without replacing human oversight.​ Key Takeaways Trade compliance education needs to reach far beyond the “customs team” to purchasing, sales, R&D, management, and more.​ EU environmental and product regulations (like CBAM) may not be classic customs rules, but they directly affect import/export declarations.​ Both U.S. and EU companies benefit when they understand each other’s legal frameworks, especially for export controls and product flows.​ AI is already reshaping how training is delivered and used, but its outputs still need to be checked and contextualized by humans.​ Credits Host: Annik Sobing Guest: Patrick Nieveler – CEO, Pasani Academy Subscribe & Follow New Roundup episodes every week. Presented by: Global Training Center — 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 Want to Be on the Show or Have Topic Suggestions? 📩 Email: [email protected]

Series: Trade & Technology Episode: Trade & Tech – Episode 1: Setting the Foundation Hosts: Renee Chiuchiarelli Julie Parks Podcast: Simply Trade Produced by: Global Training Center Episode Summary In this episode of Simply Trade Tips with Hammer & Heels, Renee Chiuchiarelli and Julie Parks kick off a brand-new series focused on Trade & Technology. As technology continues to reshape how trade compliance is managed, this episode provides a high-level overview of where tech fits into the trade function — and why trade professionals can no longer afford to ignore it. The conversation explores how technology (including AI, automation, and analytics) supports better decision-making, reduces compliance risk, and shifts trade professionals toward more strategic, value-added work. Renee and Julie also address a common concern head-on: Is technology replacing trade jobs — or making them better? This episode sets the stage for deeper dives in upcoming episodes, introducing key areas where technology is already transforming trade operations. Key Topics Covered Why trade and technology are now inseparable AI vs. traditional technology: understanding the difference How technology helps prevent compliance errors Government use of data and why companies must stay ahead The shift from transaction-level work to exception management Specialization vs. variety in modern trade careers How technology supports strategic trade decision-making Areas Where Technology Impacts Trade (Preview of Upcoming Episodes) Products: Managing “sticky data” like classification, origin, and attributes Entities: Screening, supply chain tracing, and partner data Importing & Exporting: Transaction execution and integration Mitigators: Free Trade Agreements, Chapter 98/99, duty reduction programs Auditing: Post-entry review, ERP reconciliation, and compliance checks Learning & Development: LMS tools, skills tracking, and continuing education FIO (Figure It Out) – Call to Action Think about one trade problem you would like technology to help solve. It could relate to: Products Entities Importing or exporting processes Duty mitigation programs Auditing and compliance reviews Training and skills development As this series continues, use that problem as your reference point and evaluate how technology might support a smarter, more efficient solution. 👉 Join the conversation in the Trade Geeks Community and share what problem you’re trying to solve: https://globaltrainingcenter.com/portal/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast Resources & Links Simply Trade Podcast (all episodes): YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@simplytradepod?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/09m199JO6fuNumbcrHTkGq?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/simply-trade/id1640329690?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast Global Training Center: https://www.globaltrainingcenter.com/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast Trade Geeks Community: https://globaltrainingcenter.com/portal/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast Credits Hosts: Renee Chiuchiarelli Julie Parks Producer: Lalo Solorzano 🎙️ Simply Trade is a podcast by Global Training Center, bringing practical insights to trade and customs professionals worldwide. Subscribe & Follow 🎙️ New TIPS episodes every Tuesday. 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! 📩 Want to be on the show or suggest a topic? Email us at [email protected] or DM us on X/Twitter @SimplyTradePod

Special Collaboration: Simply Trade × The Trade Guys Episode: #423 Recorded: January 12, 2026 Length: ~40 minutes 👥 Hosts Lalo Solorzano, Co-Host, Simply Trade Andy Shiles, Co-Host, Simply Trade 🎧 Guest Hosts (The Trade Guys) Bill Reinsch – Senior Adviser, CSIS | LinkedIn Scott Miller – Senior Adviser, CSIS | LinkedIn The Trade Guys Podcast – A CSIS Production | Podcast Page 📌 Episode Summary Simply Trade kicks off 2026 with a special crossover episode featuring The Trade Guys, blending high-level trade policy analysis with real-world compliance and operational impact. Together, the group explores what’s already scheduled to happen in 2026 — without crystal-ball forecasting — focusing on four major global trade battlefronts that businesses must prepare for now. From Supreme Court authority over tariffs to USMCA’s uncertain future, WTO dynamics, China’s global export strategy, and the erosion of de minimis, this episode connects policy decisions in Washington to the day-to-day realities faced by trade professionals. 🔍 Key Discussion Themes ⚖️ Separation of Powers: POTUS vs. SCOTUS vs. Congress The looming IEEPA Supreme Court decision and what it could mean for tariff authority Why a “split decision” could prolong uncertainty — especially around refunds Whether Congress is prepared (or willing) to reassert its constitutional role in trade 🌎 The WTO & Global Trade Rules Why the U.S. still needs the WTO — even if it dislikes multilateralism The critical importance of the e-commerce tariff moratorium How upcoming WTO Ministerial discussions may quietly shape U.S. trade strategy 🇨🇳 China vs. the Rest of the World “Managed separation” between the U.S. and China Why Chinese exports aren’t disappearing — they’re redirecting How Mexico, the EU, and others are responding to China’s manufacturing surge 🇺🇸🇨🇦🇲🇽 USMCA: Family Feud, Trade Edition Why a full withdrawal is unlikely — but renegotiation is inevitable Scenarios ranging from bilateral deals to a 10-year extension cycle The growing compliance burden for companies relying on USMCA benefits 📦 De Minimis & Trade Enforcement How de minimis once saved the customs system — and why its rollback matters Enforcement whiplash: seizures, investigations, and system congestion Why “fixing abuse” shouldn’t mean breaking the entire system 🏛️ What Can Companies Actually Do? Practical advice on engaging Congress before policies are announced Why explaining trade in plain language to elected officials matters The role of industry groups like NCBFAA and initiatives such as ADAPT 🎯 Key Takeaways Trade policy uncertainty isn’t going away — it’s becoming the norm Compliance professionals will increasingly absorb the shockwaves of policy decisions Engagement, education, and advocacy are no longer optional for global businesses 🔗 Resources & Links The Trade Guys Podcast (CSIS): https://www.csis.org/podcasts/trade-guys 🎬 Credits Hosts: Lalo Solorzano & Andy Shiles Guest Hosts: Bill Reinsch & Scott Miller (The Trade Guys) Produced by: Global Training Center Podcast: Simply Trade 🔔 Subscribe & Follow Simply Trade Podcast Website: https://www.globaltrainingcenter.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@simplytradepod Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/09m199JO6fuNumbcrHTkGq Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/simply-trade/id1640329690

Host: Cindy Allen Published: Friday, January 9, 2026 Segment: Simply Trade – Cindy’s Version (song: “Anti‑Hero”) In this episode, Cindy Allen uses Taylor Swift’s “Anti‑Hero” to frame a frank look at how the trade community may be “the problem” when it over‑hypes uncertain outcomes—specifically, the long‑awaited Supreme Court decision on the IEPA tariffs. Cindy opens with a rundown of the first full week of 2026, focusing on growing confusion over valuation of steel and aluminum components for Section 232 duties and the wave of CBP Forms 28 and 29 now hitting importers. She highlights limited, high‑level CBP guidance, the strong FAQ work from NCBFAA, and cautions brokers not to drift into legal advice when it comes to component‑level valuation.​ Cindy then zooms out to reasonable care, arguing that CBP’s practical standard is rising because the agency now has sophisticated AI‑driven supply‑chain mapping tools that importers simply do not. As CBP expects more historic, component‑level data many importers never anticipated needing, companies are struggling to reach deep into multi‑tier supply chains where vendors themselves may not hold detailed records. She warns that technology investment will be essential to meet evolving expectations, even as the definition of “reasonable” shifts upward.​ The episode also touches on broader policy shifts, including a new FMC member and an importer registration/licensing bill floated as a possible alternative to tariffs—changes that could significantly expand CBP’s administrative responsibilities if enacted. Cindy closes by returning to “Anti‑Hero” and the IEPA Supreme Court case: after major trade publications and online chatter primed the industry for a decision that never came, she urges listeners not to become part of the problem by feeding speculation in unprecedented legal territory. Her own “crystal ball” points to a possible February decision, but with a clear warning to treat any prediction with caution and to focus instead on preparation, documentation, and patience.​ What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why Section 232 steel and aluminum component valuation has become so contentious, and what CBP is asking for in current 28s/29s.​ How the reasonable care bar is effectively rising as CBP leverages AI and multi‑layer supply‑chain mapping tools.​ Why brokers should stick closely to written guidance and leave complex valuation/legal positions to counsel and CBP centers.​ What a proposed importer registration/licensing regime could mean for CBP and importers if it moves forward.​ How the trade community over‑hyped an IEPA Supreme Court decision that did not drop—and why speculation can make the industry “the problem.”​ Key Takeaways Start now: gather steel and aluminum component valuation documents and organize them so you can respond quickly to CBP inquiries.​ Expect CBP to assume you know (and can prove) more about your supply chain than you realistically do today; plan technology and data improvements accordingly.​ Be wary of social‑media “deadline certainty” around the IEPA case; no one outside the Court knows the exact timing.​ Don’t be the “Anti‑Hero” of your own program—avoid spreading rumors, focus on facts, and stay ready for multiple legal and policy scenarios.​ Subscribe & Follow New Roundup episodes every week. Presented by: Global Training Center — 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 Don’t forget to rate, review, and share with your fellow trade geeks! Want to Be on the Show or Have Topic Suggestions? 📩 Reach us at [email protected] or DM us on Twitter/X @SimplyTradePod