Immigration Nerds

As America counts down to its 250th birthday, Forbes is counting something else: the 250 most successful living immigrants in the country. In this episode, host Lauren Clarke sits down with Forbes Senior Editor Alex Knapp, co-editor of the new Forbes 250: America's Most Successful Living Immigrants list, to pull back the curtain on how a list like this actually gets made — and what it reveals about the country that made it possible.Alex walks through the methodology, from the well-known billionaires to the late additions sparked by the SpaceX IPO, and explains why "success" on this list means a lot more than a net worth figure. You'll hear why Arnold Schwarzenegger landed at #1 despite not being the richest person on the list, how the sriracha guy fled communist Vietnam and reshaped American food culture, and why Katalin Karikó — who arrived with a few hundred dollars hidden in a teddy bear — may have done more to save American lives than almost anyone else on the list.Plus: India leads the living list by a wide margin, with Canada and Israel rounding out the top three countries of origin — and Alex shares why Hungary may deserve its own book. Rob Taylor also joins with the latest immigration news, including the Supreme Court’s ruling striking down President Donald Trump's executive order limiting birthright citizenship, visa bulletin movement, the H-1B fee back in effect, and the incoming duration-of-status rule change for F-1 and J-1 holders.Immigration makes us all better. This list makes the case.Resource Links:https://www.forbes.com/sites/alexknapp/2026/06/10/forbes-250-americas-most-successful-living-immigrants/ GUEST: Alex Knapp, Forbes Senior Editor HOST: Lauren Clarke NEWS NERD: Rob Taylor PRODUCER: Adam Belmar

Your neighborhood pool may be short-staffed this summer — and the reason probably isn't what you think. Lauren Clarke sits down with Mark Overmann, Executive Director of the Alliance for International Exchange, to unpack the quiet crisis hitting seasonal businesses from the Jersey Shore to the Ozarks. The J1 Summer Work Travel program has been filling the gap in America's seasonal workforce for more than 50 years — but this summer, a State Department deprioritization order and a 6x slowdown in visa interview processing times have left up to 19,000 vetted, job-ready students stranded without an interview slot. Mark explains how a cultural exchange program became the backbone of seasonal staffing, why this is a policy and a capacity problem at the same time, what a bipartisan group of House members is doing about it, and what needs to change before summer 2027. Plus, Rob Taylor with the immigration news: Federal Court Kills Trump's $100K H-1B Fee, a new proposed rule raising the bar on EAD eligibility, and updated USCIS guidance on adjustment of status for dual-intent visa holders. Resource Links:https://www.alliance-exchange.org/ GUEST: Mark Overmann, Executive Director, Alliance for International Exchange HOST: Lauren Clarke NEWS NERD: Rob Taylor PRODUCER: Adam Belmar

What if the most powerful immigration story you heard this week came from a picture book?Jacqueline Alcantara is a first-generation American and award-winning illustrator who has lived the experiences she draws. She's the author of Tíos and Primos — a children's book pulled from her own childhood of crossing language barriers to connect with family in Honduras — and the illustrator behind Just Shine, the #1 New York Times bestselling picture book written by Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor about her mother's journey from Puerto Rico to the Bronx. Two books. Two immigrant stories. One illustrator who knows exactly what it feels like to stand in a room full of family and not quite have the words.Jackie joins host Lauren Clarke to talk about what picture books can do that policy debates simply can't. Plus, EIG partner Rob Taylor shares the latest news, including an update on the USCIS memo quietly reframing adjustment of status as discretionary — and what that means if you're currently in the green card process. Resource Links:http://jacquelinealcantara.com/tios-and-primos

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup kicking off in roughly four weeks, Immigration Nerds welcomes back Ryan Propis, Vice President of Security and Facilitation at the US Travel Association, for a progress report on US readiness. Since his September appearance, a lot has changed — visa wait times are down, the FIFA Pass expedited appointment system is live, new CBP staffing and biometric technology investments are in the pipeline, and TSA's Touchless ID program has expanded to over 60 airports. But is there a widening global perception gap between what international visitors think they'll encounter in the US and what's actually waiting for them? Propis breaks down the facts on device searches, travel proclamations, proposed visa fee increases, and ESTA application changes — and makes the case for why getting the World Cup experience right isn't just good for this summer, but for US travel competitiveness for years to come.Resource Links:https://www.state.gov/fifa-world-cup-26https://www.ustravel.org/GUEST: Ryan Propis, Vice President of Security and Facilitation, US Travel Association HOST: Lauren Clarke PRODUCER: Adam BelmarINTERVIEW RECORD: Monday 4/27/26

What if the H-1B visa experience — the lottery, the waiting, the uncertainty about whether to buy a sofa or commit to a relationship — could be experienced in a game? Journalist and game developer Alison Yang did exactly that. Yang talks to Immigration Nerds host, Lauren Clarke, about her upcoming simulation game h1b.life, which drops players into the daily reality of navigating the U.S. immigration system, managing money, legal costs, social support, and mental health, all while outcomes can still spin on a slot machine you don’t control.Resource Links:https://h1b.life/https://www.wired.com/story/made-in-china-a-new-game-turns-the-h-1b-visa-system-into-a-surreal-simulation/HOST: LAUREN CLARKE NEWS NERD: ROB TAYLOR PRODUCER: ADAM BELMAR

A confidential government paper recently surfaced in Ireland with a striking conclusion: the country needs migration to keep hospitals open, taxes flowing, and its economy afloat — even as public pressure mounts to tighten the rules. Host Lauren Clarke sits down with Katie McDermott, Managing Director of EIG's UK and Ireland offices, to unpack what that tension looks like on the ground in Dublin.Katie walks through Ireland's demographic math — a worker-to-pensioner ratio set to fall from 4.5 to 2.3 by 2051 — and what it means for employers competing for global talent in a system that's growing more complex, not less. They also get into the concept of "social license" for immigration, why the economic argument alone isn't enough to move public opinion, and what corporate clients navigating both the UK and Irish systems need to be thinking about right now.Resource Links:Book review: In Our Interest: How Democracies Can Make Immigration Popular | Law GazetteMonitoring Report on Integration 2024 Asylum and Migration Overview 2024: IrelandGUEST: Katie McDermott, EIG Managing Director, UK & IrelandHOST: Lauren ClarkeNEWS NERD: Rob TaylorPRODUCER: Adam Belmar

One year into the current administration's immigration agenda, the American Immigration Lawyers Association has done the accounting — and the findings are striking. In this episode, Lauren Clarke sits down with Shev Dalal-Dheini, AILA's Senior Director of Government Relations, to walk through the organization's new A Better Way on Immigration policy brief series, the first wave of which examines what has actually happened to legal immigration pathways since January 2025.The conversation covers the administration's systematic dismantling of congressionally-authorized immigration programs — from TPS cancellations affecting 700,000 people, to paused adjudications leaving millions of applicants in limbo, to the closure of legal pathways for families, workers, and allies. Shev and Lauren also dig into the real-world consequences for U.S. employers, universities, hospitals, and communities — and what it means for America's long-term economic and national security competitiveness when other countries, from Canada to China, are actively recruiting the talent we're pushing away.GUEST: Shev Dalal-Dheini, Senior Director of Government Relations, AILAHOST: Lauren ClarkeNEWS NERD: Rob TaylorPRODUCER: Adam BelmarResource Links: AILA: A Better Way on Immigration Policy Briefs

The American Midwest is facing an existential threat—not from outside forces, but from within. Population decline, aging communities, and shrinking tax bases are creating what researcher Dr. Jonathan Burkham calls a "demographic winter." But there's a solution hiding in plain sight: immigration.In this episode, Lauren Clarke sits down with Dr. Burkham, author of the new book “Migrant Midwest: The Case for Immigration and Economic Growth in the American Heartland,” to explore how the region that once defined American industry and culture has become the least foreign-born area of the country. The conversation traces the Midwest's transformation from an immigration magnet—where 87% of Milwaukee's population at the turn of the 20th century were immigrants or their children—to today's demographic crisis.Dr. Burkham presents a data-driven case for place-based immigration policy modeled after Canada's Provincial Nominee Program, allowing Midwest states to sponsor immigrants based on local economic needs in manufacturing, healthcare, and beyond. The discussion tackles political rhetoric versus economic reality, immigrant retention, and the fundamental choice facing America: continue growing as a global power, or manage decline like Japan. With evidence showing immigrants are net contributors who assimilate across generations, this conversation reframes immigration as the Midwest's lifeline.HOST: LAUREN CLARKEGUEST: Dr. Jonathan Burkham, Associate Professor of Human Geography, University of Wisconsin-WhitewaterAuthor of Migrant Midwest: The Case for Immigration and Economic Growth in the American Heartland NEWS NERD: ROB TAYLORPRODUCER: ADAM BELMARResource Links:Migrant MidwestThe Case for Immigration and Economic Growth in the American Heartlandhttps://www.bloomsbury.com/us/migrant-midwest-9798216276098/

As the 2026 Winter Olympics approach, Immigration Nerds explores the hidden immigration stories behind Team USA's more than 230 athletes heading to Italy. Immigration researcher Marissa Kiss from George Mason University reveals that nearly 17% of Team USA has direct immigrant ties—including foreign-born athletes from five countries and second-generation immigrants whose parents came from around the world. The conversation between host Lauren Clarke and Marissa covers athletes competing despite citizenship delays, the "reverse flow" of US-born athletes representing other countries, and how immigration policy has become a competitive tool in international sports. Plus, the latest news, including updates on FIFA World Cup visa processing, Texas's H-1B hiring pause for state agencies, and the latest on immigrant visa suspensions.Resource Links: George Mason University Institute for Immigration ResearchHOST: Lauren ClarkeGUEST: Marissa Kiss, Assistant Director, Immigration, Race, and Sports, George Mason University's Institute for Immigration ResearchNEWS NERD: Rob TaylorPRODUCER: Adam Belmar

The H-1B program just underwent its most significant structural change in decades. On December 29, 2025, DHS issued a final rule replacing the random H-1B lottery with a wage-weighted selection system—and it takes effect February 27, just before the fiscal year 2027 cap registration season opens in March.Immigration Nerds host Lauren Clarke sits down with EIG's newest partner Naïanka Rigaud to break down exactly how this weighted system works. They explore the complex legal analysis behind wage level determinations, what the 48% decrease in selection probability means for Level 1 registrants versus the 107% increase for Level 4 candidates, and why simply earning a high salary doesn't guarantee a higher wage level classification.From geographic wage disparities to potential compliance pitfalls, Lauren and Naïanka cover what employers and foreign workers need to understand right now—including the possibility that registration infrastructure might not be ready, potentially reverting to full petition submissions. This is essential listening for anyone navigating H-1B cap season 2027.GUEST: Naïanka Rigaud, EIG PartnerHOST: Lauren Clarke NEWS NERD: Rob Taylor PRODUCER: Adam Belmar

Immigration isn't just about headlines—it's about Nobel laureates, World Series MVPs, and medical breakthroughs that save lives. In this year’s end special, Lauren Clarke welcomes back Forbes senior contributor Stuart Anderson to preview his annual "Most Inspiring Immigration Stories" article. From Omar Yagi's journey from refugee to Nobel Prize winner in chemistry, to Dodgers pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto's heroic World Series performance, to a groundbreaking cancer treatment discovered by a PhD student who annoyed her lab mates—these stories reveal the extraordinary contributions immigrants make when America opens its doors. Plus, the remarkable legacy of Charles Watts, who sponsored over 300 Vietnamese refugees. What do these diverse stories tell us about innovation, opportunity, and America itself? SHOW RESOURCE LINKS:The Most Inspiring Immigration Stories Of 2025: https://www.forbes.com/sites/stuartanderson/https://nfap.com/about-us/biographies/GUEST: Stuart Anderson/Executive Director, National Foundation for American Policy, Senior Contributor to ForbesHOST: Lauren ClarkePRODUCER: Adam Belmar

2025 marked an unprecedented transformation in U.S. immigration policy. Executive orders attempting to end birthright citizenship, expand travel bans, and suspend refugee programs— along with the chaotic H-1B fee proclamation — fundamentally reshaped both legal and humanitarian immigration pathways. In this episode, immigration policy strategist Maunica Sthanki joins host Lauren Clarke to examine the executive action-heavy approach, constitutional challenges, and what 217+ executive orders reveal about presidential power limits. They explore the real-world impacts on refugees, employment-based immigration, and asylum seekers—and what polling data suggests about public perception shifting as restrictive policies play out. Plus, Rob Taylor covers breaking news on Haiti TPS, enhanced vetting requirements, and global immigration tightening trends as we head into 2026's midterm election year.GUEST: Maunica Sthanki, Immigration Policy and Advocacy StrategistHOST: Lauren ClarkeNEWS NERD: Rob TaylorPRODUCER: Adam Belmar Resource Links: https://www.sthankistrategies.com/

Beyond the headlines about the workforce and the economy lies a visa category designed for something deeper: human connection. In this episode, Immigration Nerds host Lauren Clarke explores the J-1 Cultural Exchange Program with Lisa Murray, Director of the Exchange Program at the American Immigration Council. From camp counselors to research scholars, the J-1 brings thousands of cultural ambassadors to American communities each year. These visitors are not in the US to fill permanent jobs, but to build bridges of understanding that transcend borders. Lisa shares her own teenage exchange experience and explains why these temporary programs matter now more than ever, challenging misconceptions while revealing how cultural diplomacy creates ripple effects that strengthen communities and international relationships for decades to come. GUEST:  Lisa Murray, Director, Exchange Program | American Immigration CouncilHOST: Lauren ClarkeNEWS NERD: Rob TaylorPRODUCER: Adam BelmarResource Links:American Immigration CouncilUS Exchange Visitor Visa

American farms are in crisis. The federal government shutdown froze H-2A visa processing right when farmers need to prepare for planting season. At the same time, major changes to how farm worker wages are calculated are making everything more complicated.Immigration Nerds host Lauren Clarke talks with immigration attorney and agricultural labor expert L.J. D'Arrigo about what's happening to the farms that grow our food. As immigration enforcement ramps up and legal pathways get more complex, find out what's really at stake for American agriculture and the workers who feed our nation.GUEST: L.J. D’Arrigo, Partner, Harris Beach MurthaHOST: Lauren ClarkeNEWS NERD: Rob TaylorPRODUCER: Adam BelmarResource Links:Bloomberg: Agricultural Employers Rack Up Seasonal Worker Wins Under Trump: https://news.bloomberglaw.com/daily-labor-report/agricultural-employers-rack-up-seasonal-worker-wins-under-trumpUSCIS: H-2A Temporary Agricultural Workers: https://www.uscis.gov/working-in-the-united-states/temporary-workers/h-2a-temporary-agricultural-workers

In this powerful episode of Immigration Nerds, host Lauren Clarke speaks with Hendrika de Vries, author of the new book "Open Turns," about her remarkable journey from surviving World War II in occupied Amsterdam to becoming a champion swimmer and finding her identity as a 13-year-old immigrant in 1950s Australia.At 87, Henny shares how her family's decision to immigrate was driven by post-war economic hardship in the Netherlands, and how she initially experienced immigration as a loss of freedom and identity—arriving at an immigrant camp where new arrivals were told they would only ever be "new Australians," never simply Australians.Swimming became Henny's pathway to belonging, offering both athletic achievement and a space where she could transcend the immigrant label. She discusses the complex family dynamics that emerged when she learned English while her mother did not, suddenly becoming her mother's interpreter despite their traditional roles. Throughout, Henny emphasizes themes of resilience, gratitude, and the importance of sharing immigrant stories as acts of resistance against both victimization and demonization.Drawing on her later career as a family therapist, Henny reflects on how major life turning points—what she calls "open turns"—reveal our true character and strength, making immigrant experiences valuable lessons for navigating all of life's challenges.Resource Links: Open Turns: From Dutch Girl to New AustralianGuest: Hendrika de Vries, Author of "Open Turns: From Dutch Girl to New Australian"Host: Lauren ClarkeNews Nerd: Rob TaylorProducer: Adam BelmarInterview Record: Wednesday, 9/17/25 @ 3:00 PM ETNEWS NERD Record: 10/13/25 @ 10 AM ET

In this special episode of the Immigration Nerds Podcast, we break down what President Trump's H-1B proclamation means for employers and employees. Host Lauren Clarke and EIG partner Alejandra Zapatero explain who's actually affected, whether current H-1B holders can travel safely, and what employers should do now. We address the looming legal challenges, the uncertain future of the H-1B lottery, and provide practical guidance for F-1 students and startups navigating tough choices. If you're navigating the H-1B visa right now, this episode tells you what you need to know.GUESTS: Alejandra Zapatero, EIG PARTNERHOST: Lauren ClarkePRODUCER: Adam BelmarINTERVIEW RECORD: Monday, September 29, 2025 @ 4:30 PM ET

Can America's immigration system handle the 2026 FIFA World Cup? With 3 million daily travelers expected and visa wait times stretching hundreds of days in key countries, we're facing unprecedented challenges. Ryan Propis from the US Travel Association joins us to discuss what needs to happen now - from expanding visa waiver programs to deploying AI-powered screening technology. This isn't just about soccer; it's about America's ability to welcome the world while maintaining security. This is our first episode in an ongoing series, looking forward to the FIFA World Cup 2026.GUEST:  Ryan Propis, VP of Security and Facilitation, US Travel HOST: Lauren ClarkeNEWS NERD: Rob TaylorPRODUCER: Adam BelmarResource Links:Commission on Seamless and Secure Travel ReportFIFA World Cup 26: Host countries, cities, dates, teams, tickets, qualifying and more

Host Lauren Clarke dives into major H-1B developments with immigration reporter Andrew Kreighbaum from Bloomberg Law. They discuss the Trump administration's proposed weighted selection rule that cleared White House review, which could fundamentally change the H-1B lottery system from random selection to wage-based allocation. The conversation also covers troubling trends of terminated H-1B workers receiving notices to appear during their grace periods, broader challenges facing foreign workers entering the US, and uncertainty surrounding F-1 student programs and OPT employment options.GUEST: Andrew Kreighbaum, Immigration Reporter, Bloomberg LawHOST: Lauren ClarkeNEWS NERD: Rob TaylorPRODUCER: Adam BelmarResource Links:Trump DHS Proposes Limiting Foreign Students to Four Years in US | Bloomberg Law, Reporter Andrew Kreighbaum, Aug. 27, 2025H-1B Worker Weighted Selection Rule Clears White House Review | Bloomberg Law, Reporter Andrew Kreighbaum, Aug. 11, 2025

Host Lauren Clarke and immigration policy analyst Cecilia Esterline from the Niskanen Center break down the latest USCIS data on the Immigration Nerds. With an 18% drop in case completions and I-90 applications seeing 938% longer processing times, the numbers reveal unprecedented administrative strain. From I-765 work authorization backlogs jumping 181% to 450 USCIS employees reassigned to enforcement, we explore how 175 executive actions in 100 days are reshaping America's immigration system through data-driven analysis. Resource Links:Immigration Analysis from Cecilia Esterline, Niskanen CenterGuest:  Cecilia Esterline, Senior Immigration Policy Analyst, Niskanen CenterHost: Lauren ClarkeNews Nerd: Rob Taylor Producer: Adam Belmar

American farms are facing an unprecedented workforce crisis as Temporary Protected Status (TPS) programs for multiple countries terminate this August, threatening to remove an estimated 76,000 agricultural workers from the labor force. But what does this mean for food security, rural economies, and the future of legal farm labor?Immigration Nerds Host, Lauren Clarke, is joined by immigration attorney LJ D'Arrigo to reveal how farms following the law through H-2A visa programs face greater penalties than those operating in gray areas, creating a dangerous compliance paradox.D'Arrigo breaks down the "August 5th cliff" – the simultaneous termination of TPS designations for Nepal, Cameroon, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Haiti – and explains why states like Florida (357,000 TPS holders) and Texas (124,000) will be hit hardest. While the Department of Labor signals potential H-2A streamlining efforts, the reality is stark: many longtime farm workers with decades of loyalty to their employers face impossible choices between self-deportation or living in the shadows.From the human cost of breaking up farm families to the economic impact of losing trained workers, this episode explores practical solutions farms can implement now, the enforcement climate creating fear even among legal workers, and why seasonal agricultural visas may be the one area where immigration reform is actually possible. Essential listening for anyone navigating the intersection of immigration policy and America’s food supply.GUEST: Leonard J D’Arrigo (LJ), Harris Beach Murtha PartnerHOST: Lauren Clarke, EIG Senior Managing AttorneyPRODUCER: Adam Belmar

Canada's immigration landscape is undergoing a significant shift. But what does this mean for students, skilled workers, and families hoping to build their lives there? Immigration Nerds Host, Lauren Clarke, delves into the significant policy changes affecting thousands of temporary and permanent residents, joined by international practice experts Justin Storch and Jesse Root. From stricter student visa requirements to reduced provincial nomination quotas, discover how these changes may impact an individual's or employer's immigration strategy and whether Canada remains a viable alternative to U.S. immigration pathways. This episode is essential listening for anyone navigating the evolving Canadian immigration system.GUESTS: Justin Storch, Associate Attorney, EIG International Practice; ​Jesse Root, International Practice Project Manager  NEWS NERD: Rob Taylor, EIG PartnerHOST: Lauren Clarke, EIG Senior Managing Attorney PRODUCER: Adam Belmar

In this newest episode of the Immigration Nerds podcast, we explore what it truly means to become an American. Host Lauren Clarke talks to author Rajani LaRocca, whose latest children's book "Some of Us: A Story of Citizenship and the United States," offers a poignant look at the immigration and naturalization process. Through beautiful prose and captivating illustrations, LaRocca guides readers through this deeply personal yet universally significant journey that defines so much of our nation's character.GUEST: Rajani LaRocca, Author, Physician, Naturalized CitizenHOST: Lauren ClarkeNEWS NERD: Rob TaylorPRODUCER: Adam BelmarShow Links: Some of Us: A Story of Citizenship and the United States

America faces a critical shortage in its care workforce, the millions of workers who provide childcare, elder care, and support for people with disabilities. With 9 million job openings expected in direct care over the next decade and an aging population that will see 89 million Americans over 65 by 2060, this crisis affects every family. In this episode, host Lauren Clarke sits down with Amanda Bergson-Shilcock, Senior Fellow at the National Skills Coalition, to explore how immigration policy intersects with America's growing demand for care workers. You'll discover that immigrants already comprise one in four direct care workers and one in three home care workers. Yet, policy barriers often prevent talented caregivers from filling these essential roles.Plus, immigration news from Erickson Immigration Group partner Rob Taylor, covering the latest developments affecting F-1 students from China and Hong Kong, new restrictions on Harvard exchange programs, and the implementation of a new travel ban affecting 19 countries.Show Links:Workforce Advisory Council to Address Urgent Care Workforce Needs: https://nationalskillscoalition.org/news/press-releases/nsc-launches-care-workforce-advisory-council/

Discover the hidden culinary history of Asian heritage chefs who've served U.S. presidents. Host Lauren Clarke welcomes food historian Adrian Miller and chef Deborah Chang, co-authors of "Asian Heritage Chefs in White House History: Cooking to the President's Taste." From Lee Ping Quan's presidential yacht service in the 1920s to Chef Cristeta Comerford's 19-year tenure as White House Executive Chef, learn how these talented cooks navigated anti-Asian immigration policies while introducing authentic dishes to America's first families. The episode explores how military service provided a pathway to citizenship, reveals surprising fusion recipes from presidential kitchens, and demonstrates food's power as cultural diplomacy. Plus, the latest immigration news with EIG partner Rob Taylor.This episode is part of our ongoing "Food of Immigrants" series, this month featuring stories that highlight Asian American, Hawaiian, and Native Pacific Islander heritage during their heritage month.GUESTS: Co-Authors of "Asian Heritage Chefs in White House History: Cooking to the President's Taste"Adrian Miller, Author, Food Historian, James Beard Award WinnerDeborah Chang, Chef, Recipe Developer, AttorneyHOST: LAUREN CLARKENEWS NERD: ROB TAYLORPRODUCER: ADAM BELMARShow Links:Asian Heritage Chefs in White House History: Cooking to the President’s Taste

In this episode of the Immigration Nerds Podcast, we explore how immigration directly impacts the solvency and sustainability of Social Security with economist Dr. Tara Watson, Director of the Center for Economic Security and Opportunity at the Brookings Institution.As America faces an aging population and declining birth rates, Dr. Watson explains how immigrants serve as economic contributors to our retirement systems, often paying far more into Social Security than they'll ever receive in benefits. She breaks down the demographic math behind our current crisis, presents evidence-based solutions that could extend Social Security's viability, and discusses how immigration policies might help. This episode will examine the data-driven relationship between immigration and one of America's most essential safety net programs.GUEST:  Dr. Tara Watson, Director, Center for Economic Security and Opportunity, Brookings InstitutionHOST: Lauren ClarkeNEWS NERD: Rob Taylor PRODUCER: Adam Belmar

What does it feel like to miss your green card approval by just eight days after waiting for nearly a decade? In this compelling episode, we follow KC Lakshminarasimham's 16-year odyssey through America's labyrinthine immigration system.From his unexpected arrival in the U.S. during the 2008 recession to coming heartbreakingly close to permanent residency, only to have bureaucratic delays slam the door shut at the last moment, KC's story captures both the frustration and determination required to navigate employment-based immigration. Adding to the complexity, his wife—a qualified dentist—faced her own career obstacles due to her dependent visa status.After years of setbacks and a devastating near-miss, discover how KC finally achieved success by proving his "extraordinary ability" when traditional paths failed him. This eye-opening conversation reveals the human cost behind immigration statistics and offers crucial insights for skilled professionals facing similar challenges. Don't miss this powerful testament to perseverance that illuminates why America's immigration policies matter for our technological and economic leadership.GUEST:  KC Lakshminarasimham "Lack-shmee-nara-sim-ham"HOST: Lauren ClarkeINTERVIEWER: Justin ParsonsNEWS NERD: Rob TaylorPRODUCER: Adam Belmar

In this timely episode of the Immigration Nerds podcast, host Lauren Clarke is joined by Erickson Immigration Group partners, Rob Taylor and Alejandra Zapatero, to analyze the immigration landscape 90 days into President Trump's second administration.GUEST: Alejandra Zapatero, Erickson Immigration Group Partner and Rob Taylor, Erickson Immigration Group PartnerHOST: Lauren Clarke PRODUCER: Adam Belmar

In this compelling episode of the Immigration Nerds podcast, we speak with composer Kevin Charoensri, whose dream opportunity to have his music performed by "The President's Own" United States Marine Band was abruptly canceled by a presidential executive order restricting diversity initiatives.Despite this setback, Kevin's composition has gained remarkable attention. This episode explores immigration, cultural identity, artistic expression, and resilience.Show Links: Kevin CharoensriRISING LIGHT - Kevin Charoensri Performed by the University of California - Los Angeles Wind Ensemble under Travis Cross.GUEST:  Kevin CharoensriHOST: Lauren ClarkeNEWS NERD: Rob Taylor PRODUCER: Adam Belmar

In this episode of Immigration Nerds, host Lauren Clarke sits down with Laura Collins, Director of the Bush Institute-SMU Economic Growth Initiative, to explore their 2025 policy recommendations on immigration reform. Collins presents a compelling economic case for modernizing America's immigration system, highlighting how immigration serves as a competitive advantage even when legal frameworks may fail to maximize its potential. The conversation delves into temporary worker visa programs, employment-based green cards, and the role of refugee resettlement in global security. Collins offers forward-thinking perspectives on how immigration can address America's demographic challenges, particularly as future workforce growth shifts to regions like Sub-Saharan Africa.INTERVIEW RECORD: Wednesday, 3/12/25 @ 11:30 aM ETShow Links:George W. Bush Institute | Policy Recommendation | January 13, 2025: Reforming Our Immigration System to Maximize America's PotentialGUEST: Laura Collins, Director, George W. Bush Institute-SMU Economic Growth InitiativeHOST: Lauren ClarkeNEWS NERD: Rob TaylorPRODUCER: Adam Belmar

In this episode of Immigration Nerds, host Lauren Clarke explores how Fiona McEntee's children's book "Our American Dream" finally has its moment five years after its original release. As immigration continues to dominate headlines in February 2025, this collection of positive immigration stories told through rhyming verse has become more relevant than ever. McEntee, an Irish immigrant and immigration attorney herself, discusses how she's getting her book into the hands of children who need its message most - including community centers in areas where immigrants have faced hostility. She shares how the book is helping immigrant children feel welcome during uncertain times and giving teachers a tool to have age-appropriate conversations about immigration in classrooms. The episode also features Immigration News Nerd Rob Taylor with updates on TPS termination for Haiti, new visa interview waiver restrictions at several US consulates, and a reminder about the upcoming H-1B cap registration period.Show Links:Our American Dream: https://www.ouramericandreambooks.com/

In an era of shifting immigration policies, how can schools protect their most vulnerable students? This urgent episode features Luma Mufleh, founder of Fugees Family Inc., who has created a groundbreaking School Crisis Playbook for deportation response. Drawing from her personal experience as a refugee and educator, Mufleh provides crucial insights into preparing schools for immigration enforcement scenarios while maintaining student dignity and hope. GUESTS: Luma Mufleh, Fugees FamilyHOST: Lauren ClarkeNEWS NERD: Rob Taylor PRODUCER: Adam BelmarShow Links:School Crisis Playbook: Deportation Response - Navigating Deportation Policies with Practical Tools and Preparedness Fugees Family - Advancing educational justice for refugee and immigrant youth                                                                              

Immigration Nerds host Lauren Clarke talks with Erickson Immigration Group partners Alejandra Zapatero and Hiba Anver about President Trump's new executive orders on immigration following his second-term inauguration on January 20, 2025. They break down three major changes: potential new travel bans affecting certain countries, stricter rules for existing visa programs, and a controversial attempt to change birthright citizenship rules.Zapatero and Anver explain how these orders might face legal challenges in court, especially the birthright citizenship order, which tries to change how the 14th Amendment is interpreted.They emphasize that while many of these changes could significantly impact legal immigrants and their families, the full effects aren't yet clear as courts review the orders and agencies work out implementation details.SHOW RESOURCE LINKS:Trump Presidential Actions: https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/EIG Day 1 Summary | The Trump Administration's Immigration Executive Orders: https://eiglaw.com/trump-administration-immigration-executive-orders/

January is National Mentoring month, and in this episode of Immigration Nerds, we explore StreetWise Partners' transformative mentorship program helping underemployed job seekers, particularly immigrants and first-generation Americans, navigate the U.S. job market. CEO Shari Krull discusses how their 2,500-strong volunteer network provides crucial career coaching, while recent mentee graduate, Denise Phillips, shares her inspiring journey from São Paulo's underprivileged community to securing a senior project management role at a major hospitality company - achieving a standout role, and personal and professional confidence in her career. Erickson Immigration Group is proud to be a national corporate partner to StreetWise Partners.SHOW RESOURCE LINKS:StreetWise Partners: https://www.streetwisepartners.org/ Denise Phillips, StreetWise Mentee: https://www.streetwisepartners.org/success-stories/denises-storyNational Mentoring Month 2025: https://www.mentoring.org/campaigns/national-mentoring-month/ 

Forbes senior contributor Stuart Anderson joins host Lauren Clarke to discuss his article highlighting 2024's most inspiring immigration stories. Anderson, executive director of the National Foundation for American Policy, shares remarkable stories, including Albert Oso Asari, a Ghanaian tech entrepreneur who overcame H-1B visa challenges to found a billion-dollar company; six immigrant construction workers who tragically died in the Baltimore bridge collapse; Gil Howard, an 82-year-old professor who has taught over 400 Afghan women to drive; and Bernard Kimono, a Congolese refugee who rose from a Tanzanian refugee camp to join the U.S. national soccer team.GUEST:  Stuart Anderson, Executive Director, National Foundation for American Policy & Senior Contributor to ForbesHOST: Lauren ClarkePRODUCER: Adam BelmarSHOW RESOURCE LINKS:The Most Inspiring Immigration Stories Of 2024Stuart Anderson on ForbesNational Foundation for American Policy

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Tarun Batchu, a remarkable high school junior from Powell, Ohio, who has developed an innovative algorithm that could transform how we approach immigration policy. As the child of Indian immigrants, Tarun's personal connection to immigration inspired him to create Nexus, a groundbreaking tool that analyzes migration patterns using artificial intelligence and real-time data. Already garnering attention from international institutions including the French and Sri Lankan Foreign Ministries, Tarun's work demonstrates how the next generation is bringing fresh perspectives and technological solutions to complex global challenges. Join us for a fascinating conversation about the intersection of technology, policy, and the future of immigration, as we explore how a high school debate topic evolved into a potentially game-changing innovation for global migration management.SHOW RESOURCE LINKS:Tarun Batchu: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tarun-batchu-986017284/GUEST: Tarun Batchu, Developer, Nexus immigration algorithmHOST: Lauren Clarke PRODUCER: Adam Belmar

Erickson Immigration Group Partner Rob Taylor joins Immigration Nerds Host Lauren Clarke to discuss what preparations visa holders need to make before they embark on international travel at the end of 2024 and the beginning of 2025. Hit play to learn what essential documents you need to have in order and with you when you travel. Hear the tips that can help you with visa processing and how to handle possible administrative delays, plus what to consider when it comes to potential impacts on travel from the U.S. administration change on January 20, 2025.

In this episode of Immigration Nerds, host Lauren Clarke speaks with Shev Dalal-Dheini, Senior Director of Government Relations at the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA), about the evolving landscape of legal immigration in 2024. They discuss recent H-1B reforms, increased filing fees, the future of programs like DACA and TPS, and the impact of Supreme Court decisions on immigration policy ahead of the 2024 presidential election.SHOW RESOURCE LINKS: American Immigration Lawyers AssociationGUEST: Sharvari (Shev) Dalal-Dheini, Senior Director of Government Relations, American Immigration Lawyers AssociationHOST: Lauren ClarkePRODUCER: Adam BelmarInterview Recorded 10/30/24

Immigration Nerds explores Australia's impending changes to the Subclass 482 Temporary Skill Shortage Visa Program. Host Lauren Clarke is joined by Erickson Immigration Group's Martin Russell and Catherine Thomas from Melbourne for an explainer on the Subclass 482, and potential benefits and challenges for employers and applicants in the evolving Australian immigration landscape.SHOW RESOURCE LINKS: Subclass 482-Temporary Skill Shortage VisaGUEST: Martin Russell, EIG Senior Manager, Australia and Catherine Thomas, EIG Senior Manager, AustraliaHOST: Lauren Clarke, Managing AttorneyNEWS NERD: Rob Taylor, PartnerPRODUCER: Adam Belmar

The labor shortage facing America’s farmers and ranchers is persistent and costly. The H-2A visa program for temporary agricultural workers is a critical option for this business. Host Lauren Clarke is joined by immigration attorney L.J. D'Arrigo to explain the H-2A program's purpose, requirements, and challenges for both employers and workers. Plus, get the latest on DOL’s recent regulatory changes and ongoing litigation.GUEST: Leonard J. D'Arrigo / Harris BeachHOST: Lauren Clarke, Erickson Immigration Group Managing Attorney NEWS NERD: Rob Taylor, Partner & ShareholderPRODUCER: Adam BelmarSHOW RESOURCE LINKS:Biden’s New H-2A Rule Expands Protections and Increases Oversight for Migrant Workers, American Immigration CouncilGeorgia sues Biden administration over plan to expand farmworker rights, Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Discover how a Sri Lankan immigrant's love for his mother's cooking sparked a culinary revolution in Sydney. Shaun Christie-David's Colombo Social isn't just serving up delicious dishes – it's changing lives. From empowering refugees to bridging cultural divides, learn how food is becoming a powerful force for social change in Australia. This is the third episode of Immigration Nerd’s special series: Food of Immigrants where we celebrate cultural heritage and fostering community understanding through food.GUEST: Shaun Chistie-David, Chief Executive Officer – Plate it ForwardHOST: Lauren Clarke, PRODUCER: Adam Belmar

In this special episode of the Immigration Nerds Podcast, host Lauren Clarke welcomes renowned UCLA law professor Hiroshi Motomura for an in-depth discussion on the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965, also known as the Hart-Celler Act. Professor Motomura provides a detailed analysis of this landmark legislation, explaining how it fundamentally changed U.S. immigration policy by abolishing the discriminatory national origins quota system and establishing a new framework based on family reunification and attracting skilled labor. He describes the act as a "sea change" in American immigration law and frames it within the broader context of the Civil Rights movement of the 1960s.This special episode offers listeners a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of a pivotal moment in U.S. immigration history and its lasting effects on American society.GUEST:  Hiroshi Motomura, Susan Westerberg Prager Distinguished Professor of Law, UCLA School of LawHOST: Lauren ClarkePRODUCER: Adam BelmarSHOW RESOURCE LINKS:Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965 (Hart–Celler Act) Hiroshi Motomura / UCLA School of Law  

In October 2023, President Biden issued the "Executive Order on the Safe, Secure, and Trustworthy Development and Use of Artificial Intelligence" with special actions related to immigration and the advancement of AI. This newest episode of the Immigration Nerds podcast looks at how President Biden's Executive Order is impacting immigration, the progress for the implementation of these actions and the deadlines being met, and, perhaps, most importantly, what challenges confront the adaptation of immigration policies to rapidly evolving AI technologies. Immigration Nerds Host Lauren Clarke is joined by special guest Sophie Alcorn for a review on AI and immigration. GUEST: Sophie Alcorn, Founder, Alcorn Immigration Law and Host, The Sophie Alcorn PodcastHOST: Lauren Clarke, Erickson Immigration Group Senior AttorneyNEWS NERD: Rob Taylor, Erickson Immigration Group Partner & ShareholderPRODUCER: Adam BelmarSHOW RESOURCE LINKS:Executive Order on the Safe, Secure, and Trustworthy Development and Use of Artificial Intelligence. 10/30/23 

In this episode of Immigration Nerds, host Lauren Clarke and Erickson Immigration Group attorneys Andy Finkle and Kai Bostock discuss three major immigration policy changes announced in June 2024. They break down President Biden's executive orders on asylum seekers, new work visa processes for DACA recipients, and a parole program for undocumented spouses of US citizens.(This episode was recorded before the Supreme Court decision on Chevron deference.)Guests: Andy Finkle, Senior Managing Attorney, EIG and Kai Bostock, Associate Attorney, EIGHost: Lauren ClarkeProducer: Adam BelmarSHOW RESOURCE LINKS:White House FACT SHEET: President Biden Announces New Actions to Keep Families TogetherWhite House FACT SHEET: President Biden Announces New Actions to Secure the Border

In this episode of the Immigration Nerds podcast, we hear the inspiring story of two expats from Somaliland who are transforming lives through education. Asha Farah, founder of the Burao Academy of Science & Technology, and Yasmin Mirreh, EIG Senior Attorney and volunteer and advocate, talk about how STEM education has become a beacon of hope for Somali youth. Learn how their transnational community leverages the power of immigration to create opportunities and foster global connections. Be inspired by the academy's remarkable achievements in STEM education and its impact on students, families, and the future of Somaliland. Don't miss this powerful episode that celebrates the potential of education and the resilience of the human spirit. Tune in to Immigration Nerds now!HOST: Lauren Clarke GUESTS: Yasmin Mirreh, Senior Attorney, International Practice, EIG; Asha Farah, Co-Founder, Burao Academy of Science and Technology located in SomalilandNEWS NERD: Rob TaylorPRODUCER: Adam BelmarSHOW RESOURCE LINKS:Burao Academy of Science and Technology located in SomalilandSomaliland Professionals Association of America (SLPA)

In this powerful and insightful episode of the Immigration Nerds podcast, host Lauren Clarke sits down with Dr. Ken Fong, host of the Asian America Podcast, to celebrate Asian American Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month. Dr. Fong shares his own family's compelling immigration story, highlighting his grandfather's journey to America, the challenges faced by Chinese immigrants during the Chinese Exclusion Act era, and his father's brave service in World War II. The conversation delves into the importance of storytelling in showcasing the diverse experiences and contributions of Asian Americans, which are often underrepresented in mainstream media and history.This episode serves as a powerful reminder of the significance of AANHPI Heritage Month and the ongoing need to celebrate and uplift the stories of this vibrant and essential part of the American fabric.Lauren is also joined by Alejandra Zapatero, partner at Erickson Immigration Group, for a timely discussion on essential summer travel tips. From passport validity to visa appointment wait times and required documents, you’ll hear all the crucial advice to help ensure a smooth international travel experience for immigrants when you hit play.GUEST: Dr. Ken Fong, Host, Asian America PodcastHOST: Lauren ClarkeNEWS NERD: Alejandra ZapateroPRODUCER: Adam BelmarSHOW RESOURCE LINKS:Asian America: The Ken Fong PodcastAsian & Pacific American Heritage Month

This new episode of the Immigration Nerds podcast invites listeners to pull up a chair as we talk about how the immigrant journey and story is shared by the bowl full through our culinary heritage. Immigration Nerds host Lauren Clarke is joined by Dr. Julia Roncoroni and Dr. Delio Figueroa from the University of Denver, to talk about their new book, Cocina Libre: Immigrant Resistance Recipes. This is a cookbook that goes beyond recipes, to capture time and place and amplify the voices of immigrants.GUESTS: Dr. Julia Roncoroni & Dr. Delio Figueroa HOST: Lauren ClarkeNEWS NERD: Rob TaylorPRODUCER: Adam BelmarSHOW RESOURCE LINKS:Cocina Libre: Immigrant Resistance RecipesColorado Immigrant Rights Coalition

Federal judges in Georgia and Texas challenge the process of anti-discrimination enforcement by questioning the constitutionality of administrative law judges' authority. In two separate cases involving SpaceX and Walmart, the courts weigh in on whether administrative law judges can render decisions without adequate oversight from the President or Attorney General. Join Immigration Nerds host, Lauren Clarke, and legal expert Cyrus D. Mehta as they explore the potential implications of these rulings on immigration enforcement and corporate accountability in the latest episode of the Immigration Nerds Podcast.GUEST:  Cyrus Mehta, managing partner at Cyrus D. Mehta & PartnersHOST: Lauren Clarke, EIG Senior AttorneyNEWS NERD: Rob Taylor, EIG Partner and ShareholderPRODUCER: Adam Belmar SHOW RESOURCE LINKS:Walmart Prevails on Claims DOJ’s Judges Are UnconstitutionalSpaceX Wins Anti-Migrant Bias Case | The Dallas ExpressSpaceX, Walmart Court Wins Imperil US Immigration Bias Cases | Bloomberg LAW 

Join us for a gnarly ride forward the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. In this episode of the Immigration Nerds podcast, we keep it stateside an examine why the P-1A is the visa that lets professional, international athletes be everywhere they want to be. EIG attorney, skateboard enthusiast, and P-1 visa expert, Sebastian Zavala, joins host Lauren Clarke for a medal-worthy episode. GUEST:  Sebastian Zavala, Associate Attorney, EIG LAWHOST: Lauren Clarke, EIG Senior AttorneyNEWS NERD: Rob Taylor, EIG Partner & ShareholderPRODUCER: Adam BelmarSHOW RESOURCE LINKS:LA28 Olympic Games: Opening Ceremony July 14, 2028P-1A VisasU.S. State Department Nonimmigrant Visa Resources

Could the rights of college athletes to monetize their personal brand, which consists of their name, image, and likeness potentially upend the F-1 visa class? Host Lauren Clarke is joined by Bloomberg Law Immigration reporter Andrew Kreighbaum for a deep dive on emerging risks to student visa eligibility. SHOW RESOURCE LINKS:Bloomberg Law reporting by Andrew KreighbaumInternational Student-Athlete ParticipationGUEST:  Andrew Kreighbaum, Immigration Reporter, Bloomberg LawHOST: Lauren ClarkeNEWS NERD: Rob TaylorPRODUCER: Adam Belmar

In this Women's History Month episode of the Immigration Nerds podcast, we explore how immigration is not just about the movement of people, but also about the migration of ideas that enrich lives. Host, and EIG senior attorney, Lauren Clarke, is joined by Diana Parsell, author of the book, Eliza Scidmore: The Trailblazing Journalist Behind Washington's Cherry Trees, for an inspiring look at a beautiful symbol of cultural exchange and an enduring connection between the people of Japan and America. Guest: Diana P. Parsell, Author of the book, Eliza Scidmore: The Trailblazing Journalist Behind Washington's Cherry TreesNews Nerd: Rob Taylor, EIG Partner & ShareholderHost: Lauren ClarkeProducer: Adam BelmarSHOW RESOURCE LINKS:Eliza Scidmore: The Trailblazing Journalist Behind Washington's Cherry Trees by Diana P. Parsell (Author) More About Eliza Scidmore Washington D.C.'s Cherry Blossom Festival Eliza Scidmore: Trailblazer bringing Japanese cherry trees to US | NHK WORLD-JAPAN News