[ICPA] From Corn Dogs to Compliance: The Heart Behind ICPA

Host: Victoria Schneider Guest(s): Elisabeth Sherrell, Lynda Thomas Published: TBD Length: ~21 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center Summary What do corn dogs, introverts, an Applebee’s, and international trade compliance have in common? More than you might expect. In this candid, behind-the-scenes conversation, host Victoria Schneider sits down with Elisabeth Sherrell and ICPA co-founder Lynda Thomas for a look at the people, stories, and relationships behind the International Compliance Professionals Association (ICPA). Lynda shares the unlikely career path that took her from nearly managing customer service for a corn dog company to a career in logistics and trade compliance. The conversation then explores a familiar truth across the industry: very few people grow up planning to work in trade. Yet today, tariffs, supply chains, forced labor, sourcing, and global commerce have become part of everyday conversation—and trade compliance professionals are more important than ever. The group also reflects on ICPA’s beginnings, its pioneering Q&A network, the power of learning from different perspectives, and the personal legacy behind an organization built to feel as much like a family as a professional association. It’s a funny, personal, and heartfelt look at how a niche profession created a remarkable community. Main Topic / Discussion This episode explores the human side of trade compliance and the origins and evolution of ICPA. Victoria, Elisabeth, and Lynda discuss how professionals find their way into trade, why collaboration has always been central to the industry, and how ICPA grew from a simple idea—connecting people who needed better access to information—into a professional community. The conversation also looks ahead as trade becomes increasingly visible to consumers and businesses. With tariffs, sourcing, forced labor, and supply-chain issues now part of mainstream conversations, the need for knowledgeable trade professionals—and strong professional networks—continues to grow. Building a Community, Not Just an Association Lynda recalls how ICPA’s Q&A concept began as a way to connect professionals who were independently searching for answers. Rather than treating knowledge as a competitive advantage, ICPA encouraged members to share perspectives, experiences, and solutions. Elisabeth also reflects on carrying forward the legacy created by ICPA’s founders and preserving what makes the organization distinctive: serious education delivered within a welcoming, approachable community. A Place for Introverts—and Every Kind of Trade Professional The conversation explores why networking can be challenging for the many introverts working in trade compliance. Lynda shares how relationships and professional communities can help people stretch beyond their comfort zones, while Victoria highlights the value of bringing new and younger professionals into the industry. Key Takeaways • Few people intentionally set out to become trade compliance professionals, but unexpected career paths can lead to rewarding, long-term opportunities in the field. • Trade compliance has become increasingly visible as tariffs, supply chains, sourcing, and forced labor move into mainstream consumer and business conversations. • The best answer to a compliance challenge may not be the only answer. Sharing different perspectives can help professionals develop stronger solutions. • ICPA’s strength comes from combining professional education with a trusted network where people can learn, connect, and support one another. Resources & Mentions • Global Training Center • International Compliance Professionals Association (ICPA) • Global Trade Pathways Conference Credits Host: Victoria Schneider Guest(s): Elisabeth Sherrell Lynda Thomas 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? [email protected]