Kidswear therapy with Katie Kendrick & Linda McLean.
In this quick micropod, Katie and Linda chat about the mess caused by Trump’s tariffs and the end of the 'de minimis' exemption. Independent brands, especially those producing in China, are really feeling the squeeze—some even getting customs bills bigger than their orders. With shipping to the U.S. suspended from over 30 countries and platforms like Shopify scrambling to soften the blow, it’s a stressful, confusing time.
The two share stories, vent a little, and send out a big “Kidswear Therapy hug” to brands just trying to keep afloat. While the tone’s a bit heavy, they balance it with humor and look ahead to lighter topics—like kids’ modeling and influencer culture—in upcoming episodes.

How Trump’s tariffs and the loss of the de minimis exemption are hitting small brands.
Brands turning to third-party logistics (3PLs) to find workarounds.
Horror stories of customs charges exceeding the value of shipments.
Over 30 countries suspending deliveries to the U.S., leaving retailers scrambling.
Shopify rolling out tools to calculate duties upfront and avoid nasty surprises.
Pressure on mid-sized brands already struggling with inflation and tight cashflow.
Retail casualties like Ssense, blaming tariffs for big drops in U.S. sales.
Confusion and lack of systems—echoes of Brexit chaos.
Brands questioning how long they can keep going under this strain.
A supportive note to the industry: “we feel your pain.”
Teaser for next episode: kids’ modeling, influencer culture, and where to draw the line.

 
Kidswear Therapy is a Pirouette Media production.
Recorded & edited by Richard Kendrick
Music by Low Tide https://open.spotify.com/artist/3Iqd1isfhrqhgH51tX2aqe
Hosted by 
Katie Kendrick of https://pirouetteblog.com
Linda McLean of https://smudgetikka.com
Sponsored by https://pirouettedirectory.com

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