In this episode of the International Trade Resource Podcast, host Kim Kirkendall chats with Patricia Leebove about what global process improvement really looks like inside international organizations. In this episode, Patricia breaks down how improvement work can range from small, high-impact fixes to full-scale projects — and why the size of the initiative doesn’t determine its value. She and Kim explore how lean principles, thoughtful measurement, and cross-functional collaboration help teams reduce waste, improve customer outcomes, and accelerate revenue.

Patricia also shares the human skills behind successful process improvement, including: facilitation, listening, data literacy, and an ability to translate across functions. She and Kim discuss why the humble spreadsheet is still one of the most used platforms in global organizations. Kim digs into the overlap between process improvement and project management, including practical examples of aligning stakeholders and managing scope.

The conversation then expands into the complexities of global work — from country-specific regulations to cultural norms that shape how teams collaborate. Patricia gives vivid examples, including how compliance expectations differ in Germany and how vacation practices shift dramatically across borders. The episode closes with her framework for assessing improvement maturity using a simple matrix, along with Kim’s invitation for listeners to reflect on their own processes and next steps. Listen now to learn how to apply these global process improvement insights to your own organization!

Key Takeaways

● Process improvement can be anything from a kaizen-style quick fix to a full project rollout: impact matters more than scale.

● Cultural norms and regulatory environments vary widely and meaningfully shape global improvement efforts.

● A maturity matrix offers a straightforward framework for assessing progress and identifying next steps.

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Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or commercial advice. We provide no guarantee for the accuracy of the information provided. Reproduction or transmission of this podcast is strictly prohibited.

In this episode of the International Trade Resource Podcast, host Kim Kirkendall chats with Ervis Micukaj, owner and general manager of Jet IT in Shanghai, about the practical realities of cloud backup, data security, and compliance for international companies— especially those operating in China and the broader APAC region. Ervis explains why backing up data and keeping it secure aren’t opposing goals but parts of the same strategy, and why companies need local expertise that understands both global cloud options and regional regulations.

The conversation demystifies what “the cloud” actually means and lays out the three common deployment models while stressing the single most important control point: who holds the encryption keys. Ervis breaks down a set of simple, practical safeguards: encrypt data at the source, keep full control of your own keys, apply Zero Trust principles, and build both local and redundant backups to ensure you meet performance and compliance requirements when operating across borders.

Kim and Ervis also map the regulatory landscape that affects backup decisions: China’s cybersecurity and data security requirements, Europe’s GDPR, and U.S. industry-specific rules. Rather than viewing compliance as a burden, Ervis reframes it as a quality framework that drives better practices and builds trust with regulators and partners. Tune in now and get the download on Cloud Backup and the future of AI-driven models!

Key takeaways

• Backup and security are complementary.
• Know your cloud models: public, private, and hybrid each have trade-offs.
• The 3–2–1 rule
  Compliance varies by region: compliance strengthens resilience and trust.
• Prepare for the future: AI governance is the next big security conversation.

Episode Sponsors:

If you liked this episode - Buy Me a Coffee - it’s a great way to help us cover the out of pocket costs. LINK: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/kimkirkendall

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Corporate Services and full Accounting/CPA/Tax for China.

Website: www.intltraderesources.com

Email: intltradepodcast@gmail.com

Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or commercial advice. We provide no guarantee for the accuracy of the information provided. Reproduction or transmission of this podcast is strictly prohibited.

In this episode of the International Trade Resource Podcast, host Kim Kirkendall sits down with Ann Shipherd, owner of A.C. Ship Global Trade Law and a seasoned consultant with extensive experience in customs brokerage and trade compliance. Together, they tackle one of the most pressing and confusing issues in international trade today: understanding tariff announcements.

When headlines announce a new tariff or policy shift, where can importers and trade professionals turn to separate fact from speculation? Ann walks us through a step-by-step process for finding accurate, up-to-date information - starting with presidential executive orders, then moving through CBP’s Cargo Systems Messaging Service (CSMS), the Federal Register, and beyond. She also emphasizes the practical role of customs brokers and industry colleagues in interpreting rapidly changing guidance.

The conversation dives deep into tariff stacking, the challenges of conflicting or delayed announcements, and the growing reliance on tools like ACE to verify the real-world application of tariffs. Ann and Kim highlight the importance of industry collaboration, CBP rulings, and staying proactive in a landscape where regulations shift quickly and sometimes retroactively.

If you’ve ever wondered how to make sense of tariff updates—or how to protect your company from unexpected costs—this episode is packed with insights and practical strategies.

Key Takeaways:

• Where to find the most reliable sources of tariff information (executive orders, CSMS, Federal Register, ACE).
  
  
  
• Why your customs broker should be your first call when announcements are made.
  
  
  
• How to use CBP rulings and industry associations to clarify uncertainties.
  
  
  
• What tariff stacking is and why it complicates landed cost calculations.
  
  
  
• The risks of delayed duty bills and why trade professionals must stay vigilant.
• Tools like newsletters, websites, and LinkedIn can help professionals stay up to date on rapidly changing trade issues.
  
  
  
• Storytelling is a powerful tool in influencing policymakers—companies that speak up can shape the future of trade.
  

Episode Sponsors:

If you liked this episode - Buy Me a Coffee - it’s a great way to help us cover the out of pocket costs. LINK: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/kimkirkendall

Acclime China:

https://china.acclime.com/

Corporate Services and full Accounting/CPA/Tax for China.

Website: www.intltraderesources.com

Email: intltradepodcast@gmail.com

Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or commercial advice. We provide no guarantee for the accuracy of the information provided. Reproduction or transmission of this podcast is strictly prohibited.