Simply Trade

[ROUNDUP] ICPA Creating The Next Generation of Trade

Hosts: Annik Sobing (annik@simplytradepodcast.com | LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/annik-sobing-mba-b226251a2/]) Guests: Elisabeth Sherrell, ICPA (International Compliance Professionals Association) Jacob Boggs, Recent Graduate & Trade Compliance Professional Producer: Annik Sobing Length: ~28 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center.  Find GTC Seminars here: https://globaltrainingcenter.com/seminars/ [https://globaltrainingcenter.com/seminars/] Episode Overview In this exciting episode of Simply Trade News Roundup, host Annik Sobing welcomes Elisabeth Sherrell from the International Compliance Professionals Association (ICPA) and Jacob Boggs, a young trade compliance professional who recently graduated and is already making waves in the industry. The conversation centers on breaking into trade compliance as a student or recent graduate, the value of ICPA membership and conferences, and how the next generation of trade professionals is building community and legacy in this field. Elisabeth and Jacob share inspiring stories about overcoming fear, taking the first step, and the importance of networking at industry events. This episode is a must-listen for students, recent graduates, and anyone considering a career in trade compliance. It's packed with practical advice, encouragement, and real talk about navigating conferences, making connections, and finding your place in the trade compliance community—even if you feel like you don't belong yet. What You'll Learn in This Episode How to break into trade compliance as a student or recent graduate The benefits of ICPA membership and what to expect at ICPA conferences Practical tips for attending your first trade conference (what to wear, how to introduce yourself, who to talk to) Why networking isn't as scary as it seems—and how to make meaningful connections The emerging "under 30" trade compliance community and why it matters How to leverage LinkedIn and professional associations to build your career Real stories from Jacob about going to his first conference and connecting with industry leaders Why showing up is half the battle—and how taking small steps leads to big opportunities Key Topics Discussed Breaking Into Trade Compliance How Jacob entered the field and what motivated him to pursue trade compliance The challenges students and recent graduates face when entering a specialized industry Why it's important to reach out to people who are slightly ahead of you in their career journey ICPA Conferences & Membership What ICPA offers: conferences, networking, educational sessions, and community Why attending conferences is valuable even if you don't know anyone How to prepare for a conference and what to expect The welcoming nature of the trade compliance community The Under-30 Trade Compliance Movement The growing community of young professionals under 30 in trade compliance How Jacob and others like Jack Chapman are building legacy and community Why having peers at similar career stages is valuable for learning and support Practical Advice for Students Don't be terrified—everyone was new once Reach out to people on LinkedIn (like Jacob!) who are in similar positions Attend conferences even if you feel unprepared—you'll learn by being there Connect with Jack Chapman and Jacob Boggs for peer mentorship and guidance Key Quotes from the Episode "If you're terrified and if you're a student, the best way is probably to reach out to someone who is kind of in the same position as you but taking those steps already." — Annik "And I'm happy to talk to anyone as well." — Jacob Boggs "There is a group of under 30 trade compliance people that are starting to build. And that's really cool to me. That's, you know, that's legacy and I love it." — Annik "Trade makes the world go round." — Annik "Just stay calm, really. That's all we can do." — Annik Resources Mentioned ICPA (International Compliance Professionals Association) [https://www.icpainc.org] Website: ICPA Information [https://www.icpainc.org] Upcoming conferences [https://www.icpainc.org/category/upcoming-events/upcoming-conferences/] Membership benefits and networking opportunities Connect with the Guests: Elisabeth Sherrell - ICPA | LINKEDIN [https://www.linkedin.com/in/elisabeth-sherrell-ced-ccs-58b37156/] Jacob Boggs - LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacob--boggs/](available for students and recent grads to connect!) Subscribe & Follow New TIPS episodes every Tuesday. Presented by Global Training Center — providing education, consulting, workshops, and compliance resources for trade professionals. 👉 www.GlobalTrainingCenter.com [https://www.globaltrainingcenter.com/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast] Connect with us: * Simply Trade Podcast on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/simply-trade-podcast/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast] * Global Training Center on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/global-training-center/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast] * 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] * Trade Geeks Community [https://www.globaltrainingcenter.com/portal/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast] Want to Be on the Show or Suggest a Topic? Email us at SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com [SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com] or DM us on Twitter/X: @SimplyTradePod

[ROUNDUP] The Art of Trade: An Attorney on Compliance Education

Hosts: Annik Sobing (annik@simplytradepodcast.com [annik@simplytradepodcast.com] | LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/annik-sobing-mba]) Guest: Natalie Zink: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nataliezink/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/nataliezink/] Producer: Annik Sobing  Length: ~15 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center Episode Overview In this episode of Simply Trade Roundup, host Annik Sobing interviews Natalie Zink, an experienced trade attorney and thought leader, about her journey in trade compliance education and why ongoing learning in this field is essential. Natalie discusses taking courses at Global Training Center and gaining practical insights into the daily challenges faced by in-house trade compliance teams. The conversation highlights key trade compliance pillars—tariff classification, country of origin, and valuation—and how a deeper understanding helps attorneys and professionals provide better business and legal advice. They also explore current issues like the upcoming IEPA Supreme Court decision and the critical role of thorough documentation in an evolving enforcement landscape. What You’ll Learn in This Episode * The importance of continuous education for trade compliance professionals and attorneys alike * Practical insights into how in-house compliance teams operate day-to-day * The three pillars of import compliance and why they matter: tariff classification, origin, and valuation * How collaboration between brokers, in-house teams, and legal counsel improves risk management * Upcoming regulatory challenges, including pending Supreme Court cases affecting tariffs under IEPA * The critical necessity of documenting import decisions to meet reasonable care standards and prepare for potential audits or enforcement actions Subscribe & Follow New TIPS episodes every Tuesday. Presented by Global Training Center — providing education, consulting, workshops, and compliance resources for trade professionals. 👉 www.GlobalTrainingCenter.com [https://www.globaltrainingcenter.com/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast] Connect with us: * Simply Trade Podcast on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/simply-trade-podcast/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast] * Global Training Center on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/global-training-center/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast] * 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] * Trade Geeks Community [https://www.globaltrainingcenter.com/portal/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast] Want to Be on the Show or Suggest a Topic? Email us at SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com [SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com] or DM us on Twitter/X: @SimplyTradePod

[ROUNDUP] How CBP Is Using AI to Detect Tariff Cheats with Pete Mento

Host: Annik Sobing Guest: Pete Mento Published: November 17, 2025 Length: ~34 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center   In this week’s News Roundup, host Annik Sobing is joined by global trade expert Pete Mento for a fast-paced and deeply insightful conversation about how U.S. Customs and Border Protection is using AI-based targeting to detect valuation fraud, origin manipulation, and transshipment schemes. Pete explains why AI represents a new era of enforcement — where anomalies, false declarations, forced labor indicators, and risky supplier networks can be identified in seconds. He also warns that companies who think they’re “getting away with” origin washing or transshipment are likely to be caught. The two also dive into the coming Supreme Court decision on IEEPA tariffs, possible refund scenarios, the political landscape, and why proper recordkeeping may determine who survives the next wave of enforcement. A high-energy, no-nonsense episode packed with real-world examples every importer needs to hear. KEY TAKEAWAYS 🔎 Customs Is Using AI — Whether Industry Likes It or Not * AI is now detecting anomalies in classification, valuation, and country-of-origin patterns at scale. * Federal agencies are treating AI outputs as actionable enforcement data — even while telling importers not to fully trust AI themselves. ⚠️ Transshipment Is NOT Legal — Full Stop * Pete emphasizes clearly: “Transshipment is not something anyone should ever even consider.” * CBP’s data on supply-chain linkages (including forced-labor networks) makes origin washing easy to detect. 📚 Recordkeeping & Audit-Readiness Will Decide Who Survives * Companies with strong internal audits, clean documentation, and proactive supplier engagement will be best positioned if tariff refunds become available. * Importers relying on “but we’ve never been caught before” are in for a painful wake-up call. 💼 Enforcement Pressure Is Rising * Billions (potentially trillions) of dollars in tariffs mean CBP is operating more like a revenue agency than a facilitation agency. * Importers, suppliers, and freight forwarders are all facing tougher expectations for compliance. 🧠 AI Tools for Industry Are Catching Up * Companies like Otana, Exiger, and E2Open (formerly Avalara Trade) are developing tools to help importers audit HTS, valuation, and supply chain risk. * Pete predicts that in 12–24 months, AI-driven compliance tools will become standard for freight forwarders and importers. ⚖️ The Supreme Court IEEPA Tariff Case Pete shares a detailed and balanced projection: * The Court may rule narrowly against the legality of how certain tariffs were implemented. * Refunds may be possible — but the mechanism could create a massive administrative burden. * Only importers who preserved rights (filing suit, protests, or PAAs) may recover funds. 🌍 Global Ripples * Other countries may adopt similar tariff structures as they watch U.S. revenue patterns. * Mexico’s 2026 tariff framework is highlighted as an example of forward notice and adjustment time. RESOURCES & MENTIONS Here are all items mentioned in the episode: * Article: “US Customs Will Use AI to Detect Tariff Cheats” * ACE (Automated Commercial Environment) – CBP’s entry & account system * ICPA [https://www.icpainc.org/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast]– International Compliance Professionals Association CREDITS Host: Annik Sobing — LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/annik-sobing-mba-b226251a2/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast] Guest: Pete Mento — LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/pete-mento-17a5943/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast] Producer: Lalo Solorzano — LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/lalo-solorzano/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast] SUBSCRIBE & FOLLOW New Roundup episodes every week. Presented by: Global Training Center [https://www.globaltrainingcenter.com/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast] — Education, consulting, workshops, and compliance resources for trade professionals. Connect with us: * Simply Trade Podcast on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/82507159/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast] * Global Training Center on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/global-training-center/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast] * YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@SimplyTradePod] * Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/09m199JO6fuNumbcrHTkGq?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast] * Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/simply-trade/id1640329690?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast] * Trade Geeks Community [https://www.globaltrainingcenter.com/portal/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast] Want to be on the show or have topic suggestions? Email: SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com [SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com] Twitter/X: @SimplyTradePod

[ROUNDUP] Pharma Trade Compliance Pressures with Elizabeth Lomax

Host: Annik Sobing Guest: Elizabeth Lomax, Trade Compliance Consultant (Pharma Specialist) Published: October 23 Length: ~25 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center In this Simply Trade News Roundup, host Annik sits down with leading trade compliance consultant Elizabeth Lomax to tackle the timely and turbulent world of the pharmaceutical supply chain. With shifting trade rules, tariff threats, and regulatory uncertainty dominating industry headlines, Elizabeth shares real-world insight into how manufacturers—especially smaller innovators—are navigating anxiety, adapting compliance processes, and preparing for possible disruption. The conversation breaks down executive orders, HTS code strategy, the impact of de minimis changes, and the crucial role of documentation. Together, they address how ongoing tariff debates, differential exemption policies, and rapid-fire policy shifts are shaping both immediate risk and long-term strategy for pharmaceutical companies of all sizes. What You’ll Learn in This Episode * The state of pharma tariffs, exemptions, and compliance in 2025 * “Big Pharma” vs. smaller innovators—who the rules favor, and why * How executive orders and truth social posts differ from enforceable policy * HTS code strategies, annex exemptions, and documentation best practices * How tariffs and cash flow risks hit small businesses hardest * What de minimis no longer means for the industry in practice * The impact (and irony) of U.S. policy on drug pricing, shortages, and innovation * Why ACE reports and robust recordkeeping are make-or-break for compliance * How to model tariff scenarios and strengthen your playbook—no matter what comes next Key Takeaways * “Tariff anxiety” is real—prepare processes, but don’t panic over shifting headlines * Accurate classification, valuation, and country of origin are your best defense * Small pharma faces unique hurdles when policy focuses on negotiation and volume * Stay plugged in to new developments and keep your compliance documentation airtight * Trade teams may need added resources or automation to keep pace with a volatile landscape * ACE reporting, scenario modeling, and strategic partnerships can help mitigate future shocks Resources * FDA Policy Updates [https://www.fda.gov/news-events] * ACE Reporting Guides [https://www.cbp.gov/trade/ace/training-and-reference-guides] * Global Training Center’s Three Pillars Course [https://globaltrainingcenter.com/3-pillars-of-import-compliance/] Credits Host: Annik Sobing [https://www.linkedin.com/in/annik-sobing-mba-b226251a2/] Guest: Elizabeth Lomax [https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-lomax-trade-compliance-consultant/] Producer: Lalo Solorzano [https://www.linkedin.com/in/lalosolorzano/] Subscribe & Follow New episodes every week. Presented by: Global Training Center [https://www.globaltrainingcenter.com/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast] — providing education, consulting, workshops, and compliance resources for trade professionals. 👉 www.GlobalTrainingCenter.com [http://www.globaltrainingcenter.com/] Connect with us: Simply Trade Podcast on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/82507159/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast] Global Training Center on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/global-training-center/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast] 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] Trade Geeks Community [https://www.globaltrainingcenter.com/portal/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast] 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 SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com [SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com] or DM us on Twitter/X @SimplyTradePod [https://twitter.com/SimplyTradePod?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast]

[ROUNDUP] The Real Monsters in Air Cargo with Donna Mullins

Host: Annik Sobing Guest: Donna Mullins, Vice President at Kale Info Solutions Published: October 27 (Halloweek Series) Length: ~20 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center In this Halloween special on Simply Trade, host Annik sits down with air cargo leader Donna Mullins. With 34+ years navigating international logistics, Donna shares “horror stories” from neglected air cargo facilities, underfunded infrastructure, and the everyday challenges that haunt supply chains. They talk about why air cargo—though only 5% of total shipment volume—carries 35% of value and why modernizing this sector is urgent for the entire trade community. Discover where the U.S. lags behind, how Donna’s advocacy is driving real industry change, and why collaboration among business, government, and tech is essential to exorcise inefficiency from the system. What You’ll Learn in This Episode * Air cargo’s overlooked funding and modernization crisis * Real-world impacts of outdated technology and infrastructure * How global competitors handle cargo better—and what to do about it * The role of industry committees in spurring U.S. policy improvements * Lessons from the pandemic and future directions for air shipments Key Takeaways * Air cargo is essential, but too often trapped in “logistics horror.” * Solutions require advocacy, cross-sector collaboration, and investment in tech and people. * Don’t let supply chain monsters sneak up—be proactive with your partners and logistics choices! Resources:  NCBFAA / AfA Whitepaper: SAFEGUARDING THE FUTURE OF AIR CARGO [https://silkstart.s3.amazonaws.com/d558b130-3a75-4ba2-ae7c-8389bd2efdcd.pdf] GAO Report to Congressional Committees – Air Cargo – DOT Should Communicate Data Limitations and Identify Stakeholder Challenges - https://www.gao.gov/assets/gao-25-107334.pdf [https://www.gao.gov/assets/gao-25-107334.pdf]   Credits Host: Annik Sobing [https://www.linkedin.com/in/annik-sobing-mba-b226251a2/] Guest: Donna Mullins [https://www.linkedin.com/in/donnamullins/] Producer: Lalo Solorzano [https://www.linkedin.com/in/lalosolorzano/] Subscribe & Follow New Roundup episodes every week. Presented by: Global Training Center [https://www.globaltrainingcenter.com/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast] — providing education, consulting, workshops, and compliance resources for trade professionals. 👉 www.GlobalTrainingCenter.com [http://www.globaltrainingcenter.com/] Connect with us: * Simply Trade Podcast on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/82507159/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast] * Global Training Center on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/global-training-center/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast] * 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] * Trade Geeks Community [https://www.globaltrainingcenter.com/portal/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast] 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 SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com [SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com] or DM us on Twitter/X @SimplyTradePod [https://twitter.com/SimplyTradePod?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast]