Simply Trade

Host: Lalo Solorzano
Guest(s): Denise
Published: June 23, 2026
Length: 19:24
Presented by: Global Training Center

Summary
Trade compliance manuals and SOPs may not be the flashiest part of an import/export program, but they are among the most important. In this episode of Simply Trade Tips, Lalo Solorzano sits down with Global Training Center instructor Denise to discuss why written procedures are essential for keeping trade compliance consistent, repeatable, and scalable.

Denise explains that compliance does not live only in the compliance department. It touches purchasing, shipping, customs entries, finance, recordkeeping, screening, escalation, training, and more. When those processes are not documented, companies rely too heavily on memory, tribal knowledge, and “the way we’ve always done it.” That creates risk when employees leave, roles change, products expand, or regulations shift.

This episode breaks down the difference between a compliance manual and an SOP, what each should include, and where companies should start if they do not already have a formal program in place. The key message: SOPs are not just paperwork. They are the operating system that helps a trade compliance program run with control, clarity, and confidence.

Main Topic / Discussion
This episode focuses on how companies can build stronger trade compliance programs by documenting their processes through compliance manuals and standard operating procedures.

Denise explains that a compliance manual is the big-picture document. It outlines the company’s overall approach to trade compliance, identifies responsibilities, explains key risks, and describes how import and export issues are handled. SOPs, on the other hand, are the step-by-step instructions for specific tasks such as product classification, restricted party screening, export reviews, import entry audits, recordkeeping, escalation, and corrective actions.

The conversation emphasizes that SOPs should be practical, clear, and specific enough for a new employee or backup team member to follow without guessing. The episode also highlights why the people doing the day-to-day work should be involved in creating these procedures, since real-world input makes the documentation usable rather than theoretical.

Key Takeaways
• Trade compliance touches many departments, not just the compliance team.
• Undocumented processes create weak points, especially when employees leave or roles change.
• A compliance manual provides the big-picture map of the company’s trade compliance program.
• SOPs provide the detailed step-by-step directions for specific compliance tasks.
• Companies should start by documenting their highest-risk areas first, such as classification, screening, licensing, recordkeeping, entry reviews, and audits.
• SOPs should include ownership, triggers, steps, required records, exception handling, escalation paths, systems, references, and revision history.
• Written procedures make training easier, audits smoother, and compliance more consistent.
• Strong documentation helps leadership see where risks exist and gives the program room to scale.

Resources & Mentions
• Global Training Center
• Import Compliance Training
• Export Compliance Training
• Trade Compliance Seminars

Credits
Host:
Lalo Solorzano – LinkedIn

Guest(s):
Denise Smalls Altagracia – LinkedIn

Producer:
Lalo Solorzano

📢 Subscribe & Follow
Stay connected with the Simply Trade community and never miss an episode that helps you trade smarter.

🎧 Listen on:

• Apple Podcasts
• Spotify
• YouTube

💬 Connect with us:

• Simply Trade
• Global Training Center
• 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?
SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com

Host: Cindy Allen
Published: June 19, 2026
Length: ~15 minutes
Presented by: Global Training Center

Summary
In this week’s episode of Simply Trade: Cindy’s Version, Cindy Allen explores the growing complexity facing importers, customs brokers, and compliance professionals as trade policy continues to evolve at a rapid pace. From new developments involving the EU tariff agreement and ongoing Section 301 litigation to uncertainty surrounding the administration’s customs enforcement Executive Order and the future of USMCA, the trade community is being asked to navigate an increasingly complicated environment.

Inspired by Taylor Swift’s Labyrinth, Cindy focuses on a theme many trade professionals can relate to: finding a way through complexity when the path forward is anything but straightforward. What was once a relatively predictable customs process has become a maze of overlapping tariff programs, country-specific rules, component-level reporting requirements, trade remedies, and constantly evolving compliance obligations.

The episode serves as both a trade update and a reminder that while the complexity may feel overwhelming, the trade community continues to adapt, innovate, and move forward.

This Week in Trade
• The European Union approved implementation of the Turnberry Tariff Deal, helping prevent additional tariff escalation between the U.S. and EU.

• The Supreme Court declined to hear challenges involving Section 301 Lists 3 and 4 tariffs, leaving those tariffs in place.

• President Trump threatened potential 100% tariffs on French wine and champagne related to France’s digital services tax.

• Questions continue surrounding implementation of the Executive Order on Strengthening Customs Enforcement, with few details yet available from CBP or other agencies.

• USMCA negotiations remain ongoing, with expectations that negotiations will continue beyond the current deadline.

• The Commercial Operations Advisory Committee (COAC) is scheduled to meet July 15 as industry engagement continues.

Main Topic / Discussion
The central focus of this episode is the increasing complexity of global trade compliance.

Cindy walks through how trade professionals are now managing multiple overlapping tariff programs simultaneously. What once required understanding product classification, valuation, country of origin, and free trade agreements has evolved into a system layered with Section 301 actions, Section 122 duties, Section 232 tariffs, country-specific exceptions, company-specific provisions, component-level reporting requirements, and detailed U.S.-content calculations.

This complexity extends beyond importers. Customs brokers must understand not only which tariffs apply, but also the correct order of application, reporting requirements, ACE programming impacts, and evolving CBP guidance. Meanwhile, importers are being asked to collect and maintain supply chain information at a level of detail that many organizations have never previously required.

Drawing on the theme of Labyrinth, Cindy compares today’s trade environment to navigating a maze where everyone—from CBP to brokers to importers—is trying to find the correct path through an increasingly complicated regulatory landscape.

Key Takeaways
• The EU tariff agreement provides some stability for transatlantic trade.

• Section 301 tariffs continue to withstand legal challenges.

• Significant uncertainty remains around implementation of the Customs Enforcement Executive Order.

• USMCA negotiations are unlikely to conclude by the current deadline.

• Trade compliance requirements are becoming increasingly detailed and data-driven.

• Importers, brokers, software providers, and CBP are all adapting to unprecedented levels of complexity.

• The ability to manage complexity may become one of the most important competitive advantages in international trade.

Resources & Mentions
• Global Training Center

• Trade Force Multiplier

• Commercial Operations Advisory Committee

• USMCA

Credits
Host:
• Cindy Allen – LinkedIn

Producer:
• Lalo Solorzano

📢 Subscribe & Follow
Stay connected with the Simply Trade community and never miss an episode that helps you trade smarter.

🎧 Listen on:

• Apple Podcasts

• Spotify

• YouTube

💬 Connect with us:

• Global Training Center on LinkedIn

• Trade Geeks Community

Host: Lalo Solorzano
Guest(s): Kristy Guo
Published: June 18, 2026
Length: ~35 minutes
Presented by: Global Training Center

Summary
In this episode of the Simply Trade Podcast, Lalo Solorzano sits down with Kristy Guo, founder of Signature Global Network and author of The Logistics Legends book series, to explore the human stories behind logistics, supply chain, and global trade. Kristy shares why she believes logistics professionals are often invisible heroes—and why their stories deserve to be told.

The conversation highlights The Logistics Legends, Volume 3, including stories of perseverance, mentorship, leadership, faith, and reinvention from professionals across the industry. Kristy also opens up about her own extraordinary journey, from being born as a second child during China’s one-child policy to becoming a global business leader, speaker, author, and mentor.

At the heart of the episode is Kristy’s message of interdependence: no one succeeds alone. Through stories of humble beginnings, setbacks, and breakthrough moments, this conversation reminds listeners that resilience is powerful—but connection, mentorship, and shared purpose are what help people keep going.

 

Main Topic / Discussion
This episode focuses on the stories behind The Logistics Legends, Volume 3, a book that celebrates professionals in logistics, trade, supply chain, and related industries. Kristy Guo explains why she created the series, what she learned from interviewing and guiding the featured contributors, and why personal stories can inspire people far beyond the logistics world.

The discussion covers themes including resilience, mentorship, leadership during crisis, overcoming bias, and the importance of building a life and career through interdependence rather than isolation.

Key Takeaways
• Logistics professionals are often behind the scenes, but their work keeps the world moving.

• Many successful leaders started from humble beginnings and built their careers through resilience, persistence, and support from others.

• Mentorship can save time, prevent costly mistakes, and help people see possibilities they may not see on their own.

• Kristy’s central message is that people are interconnected, and true success comes through interdependence, trust, and shared purpose.

Resources & Mentions
• Global Training Center
• The Logistics Legends, Volume 3
• Signature Global Network
• TEDx talk by Kristy Guo
• Frank Desiderio

 

Credits
Host:
Lalo Solorzano – LinkedIn

Guest(s):
Kristy Guo – LinkedIn

Producer:
Lalo Solorzano

📢 Subscribe & Follow
Stay connected with the Simply Trade community and never miss an episode that helps you trade smarter.

🎧 Listen on:

• Apple Podcasts
• Spotify
• YouTube

💬 Connect with us:

• Simply Trade
• Global Training Center
• 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?
SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com

Host: Cindy Allen
Published: June 12, 2026
Length: ~15 minutes
Presented by: Global Training Center

Summary
In this week’s episode of Simply Trade: Cindy’s Version, Cindy Allen examines a series of significant developments that continue reshaping the trade landscape—from ongoing IEEPA litigation and Section 122 court challenges to growing uncertainty surrounding USMCA negotiations.

But the heart of the episode focuses on the administration’s Executive Order on Strengthening Customs Enforcement and the concerns emerging as the trade community begins to digest its potential consequences. Cindy breaks down three areas drawing particular attention: escalating bond requirements, restrictions on foreign importers of record, and new ownership disclosure requirements.

Using Taylor Swift’s The Black Dog as a backdrop, Cindy reflects on the idea that some longstanding trade practices may be coming to an end. While CBP views many of these changes as necessary tools to combat transshipment, shell companies, and duty evasion, the trade community is grappling with the possibility that enforcement-focused reforms may also affect legitimate importers and trusted traders.

As Cindy notes, some old habits may indeed be "dying screaming"—but the larger question is what replaces them.

This Week in Trade
• The Court of Appeals indicated that Section 122 tariffs are likely lawful while litigation continues

• CBP confirmed IEEPA refunds continue to be processed and announced reconciliation entries will be eligible for CAPE beginning June 29

• CBP reiterated that it believes court direction is needed before refunding finally liquidated entries

• House Agriculture Committee hearings highlighted strong support for continued USMCA trade integration

• Debate over the future of the Jones Act continues as some groups push for its repeal

• Trade associations continue analyzing the Executive Order on Strengthening Customs Enforcement

Main Topic / Discussion
This week's episode centers on three major concerns emerging from the Executive Order on Strengthening Customs Enforcement.

First, Cindy discusses the growing pressure surrounding customs bonds. As duty exposure increases, bond amounts are reaching unprecedented levels, creating challenges for importers and sureties alike. Questions remain regarding how CBP intends to apply mitigation limitations and whether liquidated damages could be affected.

Second, the Executive Order's language regarding foreign importers of record has generated uncertainty throughout the trade community, particularly among Canadian companies that have historically operated under long-established customs practices.

Finally, ownership disclosure requirements raise new questions about how CBP intends to evaluate importer eligibility and whether foreign ownership percentages could influence future customs treatment.

While many support stronger enforcement against bad actors, Cindy emphasizes that additional clarification is needed to ensure legitimate importers are not unintentionally caught in the process.

Key Takeaways
• Section 122 tariff collections will continue while litigation proceeds

• Reconciliation entries become eligible for CAPE beginning June 29

• CBP maintains that liquidated entries require court direction before refunds can be issued

• USMCA negotiations appear likely to continue beyond the upcoming review deadline

• Bonding requirements are becoming increasingly burdensome for some importers

• Foreign importer of record restrictions may have significant implications for Canadian trade

• Ownership disclosure provisions remain one of the least understood portions of the Executive Order

• The trade community continues seeking clarity on how enforcement reforms will be implemented

Resources & Mentions
• Global Training Center

• Trade Force Multiplier

• United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit

• Jones Act

• USMCA

Credits
Host:
• Cindy Allen – LinkedIn

Producer:
• Lalo Solorzano

📢 Subscribe & Follow
Stay connected with the Simply Trade community and never miss an episode that helps you trade smarter.

🎧 Listen on:

• Apple Podcasts

• Spotify

• YouTube

💬 Connect with us:

• Global Training Center on LinkedIn

• Trade Geeks Community

Host: Andy Shiles, Lalo Solorzano
Guest(s): Madison Lackey
Published: June 11, 2026
Length: 46:08
Presented by: Global Training Center

Summary
Breaking into international trade can feel overwhelming, especially at a time when tariffs, enforcement, AI, and shifting regulations are changing the industry almost daily. In this episode of Simply Trade, Andy Shiles and Lalo Solorzano welcome Madison Lackey back to the show to discuss what it is really like to enter the trade compliance field as a young professional.

Madison shares her path from studying agriculture business at Cal Poly to earning her customs broker license and becoming a trade compliance consultant at Blue Tiger International. She offers honest insight into the pressure new graduates face, the importance of slowing down before choosing a job, and why certifications, conferences, networking, and mentorship can make a major difference.

The conversation also explores foreign trade zones, the growing knowledge gap as experienced professionals retire, and why young people have a major opportunity to step into the industry now. For students, early-career professionals, and managers building the next generation of trade talent, this episode offers practical advice and a fresh perspective.

Main Topic / Discussion
This episode focuses on career development in international trade compliance, especially for younger professionals entering the field. Madison Lackey discusses how her education, broker license, certifications, conference networking, and willingness to take on uncomfortable opportunities helped her build momentum early in her career.

The discussion also highlights the current complexity of trade compliance, including tariffs, CBP enforcement, foreign trade zones, AI, and the retirement of experienced professionals. Madison emphasizes that this is a challenging but promising time to enter the industry because companies need people who can research, ask questions, build relationships, and adapt quickly.

Key Takeaways
• The customs broker license and CCS certification can provide a strong foundation, even for professionals who do not plan to work as brokers.
• Young professionals should look beyond job titles and salary to understand company culture, responsibility, mentorship, and growth opportunities.
• Conferences, webinars, certifications, and networking can help build credibility and open career doors.
• Foreign trade zones are becoming more relevant as companies look for legal ways to manage duty and tariff exposure.
• Relationship-building with CBP, agencies, colleagues, and mentors is essential in a fast-changing compliance environment.
• Managers should challenge newer employees with meaningful work, not busy work, so they can build real-world skills.

Resources & Mentions
• Global Training Center
• Blue Tiger International
• International Compliance Professionals Association
• National Association of Foreign-Trade Zones
• Cal Poly

Credits
Host:
Andy Shiles – LinkedIn
Lalo Solorzano – LinkedIn

Guest(s):
Madison Lackey – LinkedIn

Producer:
Lalo Solorzano

📢 Subscribe & Follow
Stay connected with the Simply Trade community and never miss an episode that helps you trade smarter.

🎧 Listen on:

• Apple Podcasts
• Spotify
• YouTube

💬 Connect with us:

• Simply Trade
• Global Training Center
• 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?
SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com