• 186: The Future of Immigration Law: Technology and Trends with Jason Susser
    Jul 30 2024

    Imagine pivoting from a culinary career to becoming a prominent immigration lawyer. That's exactly what Jason Susser did. From growing up with an esteemed immigration lawyer mother to making a dramatic career shift from the culinary arts to law, Jason's story is a testament to following one's true calling. We also discuss the critical role of community and mentorship in supporting founders navigating the complex immigration system.

    The landscape of H-1B and O-1 visas for entrepreneur-founders is shifting, and it’s essential to keep up. Jason and I break down the recent changes in USCIS's employer-employee relationship definition, especially for those who are 100% owner-founders. We also tackle the prevailing wage requirements and the unique advantages of the O-1 visa for entrepreneurs. You'll hear our real-world experiences with international entrepreneur parole and how the U.S. stacks up against countries like Canada in supporting global founders. Additionally, we explore the unpredictable nature of visa adjudications, sharing firsthand accounts of successes and setbacks in O-1, EB-1, and EB-2 NIW visas.

    In this episode, you’ll hear about:
    • Specialized immigration practices and startup visas

    • Conflicting immigration program requirements

    • AI tool for attorneys

    • Inconsistencies in immigration case approvals

    • Ethical considerations in government filings

    Follow and Review:

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    Supporting Resources:

    Website: https://www.visalaw.com/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-susser-940b11126

    Alcorn Immigration Law:
    • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

    • Sophie Alcorn Podcast:

    • Episode 147: Navigating the EB-2NIW Journey with Nadia Zaidi

    • Episode 164: REPLAY: What Makes a Strong H-1B Petition

    • Episode 181: Balancing Business and Justice: Fiona McEntee on U.S. Immigration and Startup Law

    • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

    • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

    Alcorn Academy course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code EAB20 for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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    41 mins
  • 185: Transforming Space Sustainability into a Viable Business: Insights from Daniel Porras
    Jul 23 2024
    Can space debris trigger an international crisis? Join us as we uncover the intricate world of space law and policy with Daniel Porras, Corporate Counsel and Director of International Government and Regulatory Affairs at Rogue Space Systems. Daniel shares his expert insights on the escalating participation of private enterprises in space and the labyrinthine legal frameworks governing satellite operations. With up to two million new satellites expected by 2030, the conversation delves into the urgency of establishing clear international regulations to prevent conflicts and ensure the longevity of space missions. Imagine a world without GPS – our economic stability and security hanging by a thread. This episode underscores the critical reliance on GPS for essential functions, from financial transactions on Wall Street to daily navigation. We explore the dire consequences of a GPS system failure, be it from solar flares or hostile acts, and spotlight the environmental and commercial dangers posed by anti-satellite weapon tests. Through the lens of Russia's controversial 2021 test that jeopardized the International Space Station, we examine the persistent challenges in managing space debris and ensuring space security. We also underscore the importance of fostering global talent and innovation to propel the space industry forward. In this episode, you’ll hear about: Future of space law and policy GPS impact on economy and security Space debris cleanup and international diplomacy Space sustainability and law overview Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Supporting Resources: https://swfound.org/media/207263/secure-world-foundation_space-sustainability-infographic.pdf https://swfound.org/news/all-news/2022/06/swf-releases-new-infographic-on-anti-satellite-weapons-and-space-sustainability/ All I Need To Know I Learned in Kindergarten by Robert Fulghum-page-001.jpg https://blogs.lse.ac.uk/lsereviewofbooks/2012/06/17/elinor-ostroms-work-on-governing-the-commons-an-appreciation/ https://www.alcorn.law/podcast/sap171/ Cynda Secure World Foundation https://space.n2k.com/podcasts/t-minus/278 His book: https://www.amazon.com/Walk-Tale-Written-Sand/dp/B0CGWX3WZ7 Website: https://rogue.space/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-porras-a1a340250/ Email: daniel.porras@rogue.space Alcorn Immigration Law: Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter Sophie Alcorn Podcast: Episode 162: From Earth to Orbit: A Dialogue on Startups, Export Control, and Space Law with Bailey Reichelt Episode 168: Into the Cosmos: Space Startups, Regulatory Hurdles, and Pioneering Tomorrow with Bryce Kennedy Episode 171: Navigating Space Governance, Peace, and Inclusive Leadership Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook Alcorn Academy course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code EAB20 for 20% off the enrollment fee.
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    42 mins
  • 184: Beyond the Atmosphere: Understanding Space Governance with Michelle Hanlon
    Jul 16 2024

    In this episode, we’re joined by Michelle Hanlon, the Executive Director of the Air and Space Law Program at the University of Mississippi and co-founder of For All Moonkind, to discuss the burgeoning field of space law. Michelle offers a unique glimpse into the legal landscape governing our cosmic ambitions.

    Learn about the challenges and implications of the current space treaties, the absence of immigration laws for space, and what this means for the future of space travel and asteroid mining. Michelle delves into the stringent Planetary Protection Protocols outlined in the Outer Space Treaty and their role in preventing contamination of celestial bodies. We also touch on the concept of space heritage, drawing parallels to Earth's conservation efforts, and examine the insufficient protection of lunar landmarks under current international law.

    With government support helping startups thrive, Michelle predicts a normalized human presence on the moon by 2050 and discusses the broad spectrum of opportunities in the space economy. From specialized spacesuits to agriculture solutions, the possibilities are endless. We also explore how everyday skills on Earth, like cooking and teaching, have valuable applications in space.

    In this episode, you’ll hear about:

    • The complexities and implications of current space treaties and the absence of immigration laws for space

    • The stringent Planetary Protection Protocols and their role in preventing contamination of celestial bodies

    • Legal challenges of innovations like bacteria that convert metal into soil on Mars

    • The concept of space heritage and the insufficient protection of lunar landmarks under current international law

    • Predictions for the future of the space industry, including a normalized human presence on the moon by 2050

    • How everyday skills on Earth have valuable applications in space

    Follow and Review:

    We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

    Supporting Resources:

    Website: forallmoonkind.org

    Social Links:

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-l-d-hanlon/

    X: @hanlonesq

    Instagram: @spacelawyerhanlon

    Facebook: Michelle Slawecki Hanlon

    Alcorn Immigration Law:
    • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

    • Sophie Alcorn Podcast:

    • Episode 171: Navigating Space Governance, Peace, and Inclusive Leadership

    • Episode 173: In Orbit with Alice Carruth: Insights on Space Exploration, Communication, and Innovation

    • Episode 176: Foreign Workers & Export Controls in the Space Industry: Insights from Jack Shelton

    • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

    • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

    Alcorn Academy course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code EAB20 for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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    39 mins
  • 183: Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: Insights from Dr. Gena Gorlin on Founder Psychology
    Jul 9 2024
    Ever wondered how successful tech founders keep their mental game strong? Dr. Gena Gorlin, a clinical associate professor turned psychologist for ambitious innovators, joins us to share her unique journey and insights. We discuss overcoming imposter syndrome, embracing our identities as founders, and the importance of identifying and leaning into our strengths. Gena brings a wealth of knowledge from her transition from traditional psychology to working with driven individuals who are shaping the tech landscape, offering invaluable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. The path to founding a company is rarely straightforward, riddled with uncertainty, trial and error, and inevitable mistakes. We unpack these natural parts of the entrepreneurial process, juxtaposing the polished success stories seen in the media with the messy reality. Our conversation highlights the importance of vulnerability and sharing real experiences, providing reassurance that founders are not alone in their challenges. We also dive into the builder's mindset and founder wisdom, exploring the fascination with biohacking and the drive to extend lifespans. In this episode, you’ll hear about: Overcoming imposter syndrome in founders The impact of failure on entrepreneurship The myth of suffering for success Decoupling suffering from greatness Embracing mental health challenges Early morning meditation benefits and biohacking Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Supporting Resources: builders.genagorlin.com (my Substack) genagorlin.com/coaching.php (founder coaching) Invest Like The Best #336 Jeremy Giffon: Special Situations in Private Markets (Spotify) (Apple)) Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang On Building Resilience With Pain and Suffering Social Links: Social media: @Gena_I_Gorlin (Twitter), https://www.linkedin.com/in/genagorlin/ Email: gena.gorlin@gmail.com Alcorn Immigration Law: Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter Sophie Alcorn Podcast: Episode 151: Exploring Global Growth Strategies for EU Founders with Daniel Zawarczynski Episode 165: Foreign Roots to Silicon Valley Heights: The Exit Journey of International Founder Alfonso de la Nuez Episode 170: Strategic Expansion for Founders: Lessons from Serial Entrepreneur David Rose Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook Alcorn Academy course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code EAB20 for 20% off the enrollment fee.
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    49 mins
  • 182: Transatlantic Ventures: Daniel Glazer on Scaling Tech Companies Globally
    Jul 2 2024

    Unlock the secrets to successful transatlantic startup expansion with insights from Dan Glazer, the dynamic leader of the US Expansion Group at Wilson Sonsini's London office. Listen to Dan's personal narrative of moving from the US to the UK and his early love affair with London, as well as his instrumental role in initiatives like Tech Nation and the British American Project.

    Navigate the intricacies of raising venture capital across borders as Dan shares strategies for smoothing cross-border deals through integrated legal teams and the importance of training dual-qualified lawyers. Discover how the influx of American venture funds into London is changing the fundraising landscape for UK and European startups, and learn key tactics to attract US-based investors, including the critical role of having a strong product market fit in the US.

    Explore the nuances of global venture capital and the strategic considerations for expanding into the US, from the location of talent and proximity to customers, to cost implications and managing teams across time zones. Dan underscores the transformative potential of AI, paralleling it to the dot-com era, and offers practical advice for startups aiming to build a transatlantic presence.

    In this episode, you’ll hear about:
    • Strategies for raising venture capital across borders

    • Market size impact on early stage fundraising

    • Signals to raise from US investors at an early stage

    • 8 considerations for US business location

    Follow and Review:

    We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

    Supporting Resources:

    Wilson Sonsini’s US Expansion and Fundraising FAQ link: https://medium.com/@daniel.glazer/u-s-expansion-and-fundraising-a-comprehensive-faq-3bf143cd5249

    Website: www.wsgr.com

    Social Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielcglazer/

    Email: daniel.glazer@wsgr.com

    Alcorn Immigration Law:
    • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

    • Sophie Alcorn Podcast:

    • Episode 139: Why Choose the L-1 for Startups with Nadia Zaidi

    • Episode 162: From Earth to Orbit: A Dialogue on Startups, Export Control, and Space Law with Bailey Reichelt

    • Episode 165: Foreign Roots to Silicon Valley Heights: The Exit Journey of International Founder Alfonso de la Nuez

    • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

    • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

    Alcorn Academy course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code EAB20 for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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    29 mins
  • 181: Balancing Business and Justice: Fiona McEntee on U.S. Immigration and Startup Law
    Jun 25 2024
    What if compassion and entrepreneurship could go hand in hand? Join us as we sit down with Fiona McEntee, an Irish immigrant and the managing attorney of McEntee Law Group, to explore how her journey to the United States shaped her career in immigration law. Fiona shares her inspiring path, from participating in an exchange program and studying law in Chicago to becoming a passionate advocate for startup founders. Hear firsthand accounts of the human challenges behind visas and green cards, including Fiona's poignant experiences during the Trump administration's Muslim ban. Witness the resilience of startup founders in healthcare and technology spaces and the grassroots efforts that arose when policies threatened their dreams. We dissect the chaotic scenes at airports and the emotional toll on families, emphasizing the critical role of volunteer attorneys like Fiona who stepped up during times of crisis. As we move into practical strategies for navigating business immigration amidst policy changes, Fiona provides essential insights into the Biden administration’s supportive measures, such as the O1A visa and international entrepreneur parole. We delve into her advocacy work, including changes to the International Entrepreneur Rule and her efforts to make complex immigration issues understandable for children through her books. In this episode, you’ll hear about: The human stories behind visas and green cardsImpact of immigration policies on the economyNavigating business immigration amid changing policiesSupporting immigrant founders with VC fundingAdvocating for immigration reformDefining the American Dream Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Supporting Resources: Book: U.S. Immigration Options for Startups: Accelerate Your American Dream Children’s Book: Our American Dream Website: https://mcenteelaw.com/ Social Links: Instagram: @usvisalawyer YouTube: @McEnteeLawGroupImmigration X: @USVisaLawyer TikTok: @immigrationlawyerfiona LinkedIn : Fiona McEntee, J.D. Alcorn Immigration Law: Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletterSophie Alcorn Podcast: Episode 39: Startup Law with Attorney Lindsey MignanoEpisode 166: IP Insight: Safeguarding your Startup with Sanjay PrasadEpisode 162: From Earth to Orbit: A Dialogue on Startups, Export Control, and Space Law with Bailey ReicheltImmigration Options for Talent, Investors, and FoundersImmigration Law for Tech Startups eBookAlcorn Academy course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code EAB20 for 20% off the enrollment fee.
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    48 mins
  • 180: Investing in the Final Frontier: Insights from Chris Reichelt
    Jun 18 2024

    What if you could be at the forefront of the next industrial revolution – this time, in space? Join us as we sit down with Chris Reichelt, the dynamic VP of Operations at Mach33 Financial Group, who seamlessly transitioned from an Air Force pilot flying missions to the Arctic Circle to becoming a leading investment strategist in the space sector. Chris's fascinating journey from an aspiring astronaut to a finance expert offers a rich tapestry of experiences and insights. We'll explore the commercial opportunities within space, drawing parallels to the American industrialization era, and uncover the pivotal role of strategic capital allocation in advancing space technologies.

    Imagine moon vacations, space-based data centers, and quantum-secured communications by 2045. In this episode, we paint a vivid picture of the future of space technology, highlighting emerging innovations from lunar imaging to fuel depots that could redefine satellite lifespans. Chris also shares invaluable advice on startup funding timelines, the best U.S. locations for space ventures, and the importance of building effective teams. We delve into notable investments in pioneering companies like SpaceX and Relativity Space, offering a roadmap for science-focused entrepreneurs eager to navigate the complexities of business and sales in this exciting frontier.

    In this episode, you’ll hear about:
    • Insights on the space industry and innovative investments for next-gen technologies

    • The state of space technology in 2045

    • Emerging technologies like quantum time synchronization and cryptography

    • Nature's extended timelines and capital requirements

    • Building complementary teams for space tech founders

    Follow and Review:

    We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

    Supporting Resources:

    Website: https://www.33fg.com/

    Social Links:

    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-reichelt-57ba19109/

    • X : @ChrisReichelt7

    Alcorn Immigration Law:
    • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

    • Sophie Alcorn Podcast:

    • Episode 154: The Deep Tech Investment: Inner Space, Outer Space, and Startup Investing with Danny Crichton

    • Episode 168: Into the Cosmos: Space Startups, Regulatory Hurdles, and Pioneering Tomorrow with Bryce Kennedy

    • Episode 171: Navigating Space Governance, Peace, and Inclusive Leadership

    • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

    • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

    Alcorn Academy course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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    36 mins
  • 179: From Law to Tech: Roman Zelichenko's Journey to Innovating Immigration Compliance
    Jun 11 2024

    Discover the powerful intersection of law, technology, and entrepreneurship as we sit down with Roman Zelichenko, an ex-immigration attorney turned tech innovator. Roman’s journey is nothing short of inspiring – from his early days in finance, finding a surprising passion for immigration law, to becoming a key player at Fragomen.

    Learn how his experiences as an immigrant from Ukraine shaped his determination to streamline and improve the immigration process through the creation of LaborLess, a groundbreaking tech startup, and GMI Rocket, a marketing agency devoted to helping immigration firms thrive in the digital era.

    Roman shares invaluable insights from his transition from immigration law to the fintech world, a move that armed him with the business knowledge necessary to launch his own ventures. Hear about the unique challenges and opportunities he encountered, as well as his practical advice for future entrepreneurs on maintaining financial stability while developing a startup. We also delve into the critical role his marketing agency plays in supporting global mobility professionals, emphasizing innovative strategies that bridge the gap between human stories and business.

    In this episode, you’ll hear about:
    • Career transition from immigration law to fintech consulting

    • The human side of working with immigration lawyers

    • The impact of generative AI on the legal industry

    • LaborLess and GMI Rocket overview

    • How immigration tec is ripe for investment and innovation

    Follow and Review:

    We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

    Supporting Resources:

    https://gmirocket.com/gmi-courses/digital-marketing-for-the-immigration-industry-2021-2023/

    Websites:

    • LaborLess: http://www.laborless.io

    • GMI Rocket: http://www.gmirocket.com

    Social Links:

    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/romanzelichenko-electronic-lca-posting-public-access-file/

    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rzelichenko/

    • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/roman.zelichenko

    Alcorn Immigration Law:
    • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

    • Sophie Alcorn Podcast:

    • Episode 135: The Future of Work with Dr. Sankar Venkatraman

    • Episode 149: Tech for Good: Impact Investing in the Digital Age with Chintan Panchal

    • Episode 154: The Deep Tech Investment: Inner Space, Outer Space, and Startup Investing with Danny Crichton

    • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

    • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

    Alcorn Academy course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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    32 mins