Area 51

Rahul Menon
  • 5.0 (36)
  • SOCIETY & CULTURE
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

It's just immigration, it's not rocket science, or is it? If you're a visa / “temporary” status holder in the US and have often found that it was easier navigating through the politics of Game of Thrones than understand the US immigration system, you're not alone. In this podcast, we aim to talk about the problems we face as immigrants here. The way we see it, we're all in for a long 20+ year long (some even up to 436 years!) rollercoaster ride waiting for our Green Cards, dealing with the dizzying highs of getting approved visas to the stomach-dropping lows of dealing with government bureaucracy and 221g’s. Add in a few more flavors such as Trump, COVID-19, layoffs and recessions to this quagmire of a maze, and we may as well be living the Hunger Games in pursuit of permanent residency in the US. We realized early on that whining about this situation can only get us so far. The more we educate ourselves and others about the system, the better armed we are to beat the system. And if we can all have a few laughs along the way, we might just be able to make process a little more fun.

  1. JUL 13

    Build Fellowship and Cap-Exempt H-1B

    In this essential episode of the Area 51 podcast, we dive deep into an innovative solution for the thousands of skilled immigrants whose dreams are crushed annually by the H-1B lottery system. Join us as we welcome Danielle Goldman, the dynamic and passionate co-founder of the Open Avenues Foundation and Build Fellowship, who presents a compelling alternative pathway that bypasses the randomness of the traditional H-1B lottery altogether. Using her extensive experience and the foundational work of her father Jeff Goldman, who was instrumental in creating many of the policies around Cap-Exempt H-1B visas, Danielle reveals how this lesser-known immigration pathway is providing hope and opportunity for skilled professionals who have been unsuccessful in the lottery. We explore the creation and mission of the Open Avenues Foundation and how the Build Fellowship emerged as a practical solution to address the growing challenges facing immigrant talent in America. The conversation provides a comprehensive breakdown of the Cap-Exempt H-1B process, from identifying suitable candidates and understanding program costs to developing effective strategies for pitching this opportunity to employers. Danielle shares valuable insights into USCIS reception of this program, offering listeners real-world perspective on how immigration officials are responding to these innovative approaches. We examine how this program addresses the fundamental flaws in the current H-1B system, where luck rather than merit determines outcomes for highly skilled professionals. The discussion highlights the substantial contributions these immigrants make to American innovation and economic growth, while providing actionable guidance for those seeking alternatives to the traditional visa lottery. This episode is essential listening for anyone who has faced H-1B lottery disappointment, international students exploring post-graduation options, and skilled professionals seeking to understand all available immigration pathways. Don't miss this vital conversation that could transform how you approach your immigration journey in America. How to reach out to the ‪@buildfellowship‬: Email info@buildfellowship.comJoin the Area 51 community group to connect with the Build Team. Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and follow us on our socials as well! - Follow Area 51 Podcast: a51podcast.com - X: https://x.com/TheRahulMenon - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thearea51podcast/ If you want to say hi or have an idea for a podcast episode, this is an easy way for you to reach out. We’ll be more than happy to hear from you! If you enjoyed the episode, don't forget to show us some love by giving us a rating and writing a review!

    1h 6m

  2. MAR 19

    To H-1B or Not To H-1B

    In this compelling episode of the Area 51 podcast, we tackle the controversial topic of H-1B visas and confront the growing wave of misinformation surrounding immigrant workers in America. Join us as we welcome Sam Peak, Labor and Mobility Policy Manager at the Economic Innovation Group (EIG), who brings data-driven clarity to the heated debate. Using research and economic data, Sam challenges prevailing myths about the H-1B program such as ‘cheap labor’, revealing the true value skilled immigrants bring to the American economy. We explore the real causes behind America's STEM talent gap, including shortcomings in K-12 education and declining interest in STEM careers among U.S. college graduates. The conversation highlights the substantial economic contributions of visa holders, from international students whose tuition subsidizes financial aid for American students to H-1B professionals who drive innovation through increased collaboration resulting in advantages such as higher patent filings. Data shows that these skilled workers complement the American workforce rather than replacing it, contributing significantly to economic growth and innovation. Sam draws on his extensive experience as a former Senior Policy Analyst at Americans for Prosperity to provide nuanced insights on immigration policy, economic growth, and the future of America's workforce. Don't miss this essential conversation that cuts through the social media noise with facts, empathy, and replaces divisive rhetoric with evidence. Don't forget to subscribe to the channel and follow us on our socials as well! Connect With Us  - Follow Area 51 Podcast: a51podcast.com - X: https://x.com/Area51cast - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thearea51podcast/ If you want to say hi or have an idea for a podcast episode, this is an easy way for you to reach out. We’ll be more than happy to hear from you! If you enjoyed the episode, don't forget to show us some love by giving us a rating and writing a review!

    1h 10m

  3. JAN 28

    Immigration Voice

    In today's episode we dive deep into the world of immigration advocacy with Adnan Zafar from Immigration Voice. Ever since it was created 19 years ago, IV has been leading from the front and standing up for issues faced by immigrants in America.  In an unprecedented and rare media engagement, this episode offers listeners an exclusive, unfiltered glimpse into Immigration Voice's inner workings. Breaking their long-standing tradition of media reticence,  Adnan candidly shares the untold story of their relentless advocacy—revealing the strategic challenges they've confronted, the sacrifices made by their team, and their successes such has securing H4-EAD for spouses which has made them the champion of visa holders in America. This intimate conversation promises to demystify the organization's approach, shed light on their behind-the-scenes struggles, and provide a rare, in-depth understanding of their mission to create systemic change in U.S. immigration policy. Immigration Voice's candid revelations not only illuminate the complex path to professional and personal stability in America but also serve as a powerful testament to the transformative potential of organized advocacy. This episode is more than just an interview—it's a pivotal moment of visibility, understanding, and collective aspiration for a more just immigration landscape. Support Immigration Voice: https://immigrationvoice.org/ Don't forget to subscribe to the channel and follow us on our socials as well! Connect With Us  - Follow Area 51 Podcast: a51podcast.com - X: https://x.com/Area51cast - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thearea51podcast/ If you want to say hi or have an idea for a podcast episode, this is an easy way for you to reach out. We’ll be more than happy to hear from you! If you enjoyed the episode, don't forget to show us some love by giving us a rating and writing a review!

    1h 25m

  4. 10/28/2024

    Improve The Dream... or Nightmare?

    Join us for an eye-opening conversation with Dip Patel, the visionary founder of Improve the Dream, as he unveils the untold story of America's "Documented Dreamers"—children who grew up legally in the United States but face deportation upon turning 21.  Key Highlights:  - Understand the paradox of Documented Dreamers: legally present since childhood yet aging out of status  -  Learn about the America's Children Act and its bipartisan support in Congress  -  Explore the challenges faced by Documented Dreamers -  Discover Improve the Dream has set the gold standard in immigration advocacy  -  Find out how you can support over 200,000+ young immigrants fighting for their American dream  Featured Guest: Dip Patel, a former documented Dreamer and founder of Improve The Dream, shares his personal journey from visa uncertainty to founding a movement that's changing the national conversation on immigration reform.  Dive deep into the complex world of immigration as Dip reveals:  - The emotional and psychological impact of living in visa limbo  - Strategic approaches to building bipartisan support for immigration reform  - How Improve the Dream mobilized a nationwide community of advocates  - The power of social media in amplifying immigrant voices  - The Country Caps Debate and whether it should be prioritized over America's Children Act  - Practical steps for turning advocacy into meaningful legislative change  Why This Matters: With over 200,000+ Documented Dreamers at risk of deportation, this episode highlights a critical yet overlooked aspect of America's immigration system. Learn how these young immigrants are fighting to preserve their American dreams while advocating for systematic reform.  Support Improve the Dream: improvethedream.org Connect With Us  - Follow Area 51 Podcast: a51podcast.com - X: https://x.com/Area51cast - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thearea51podcast/ If you want to say hi or have an idea for a podcast episode, this is an easy way for you to reach out. We’ll be more than happy to hear from you! If you enjoyed the episode, don't forget to show us some love by giving us a rating and writing a review!

    1h 1m

  5. 09/05/2024

    Unshackling Soundarya

    Soundarya Balasubramani arrived in the United States like many others, armed with ambition and a visa. But that's where the similarities end. Rather than following the well trodden path of climbing the corporate ladder, she's carved out a very unique trajectory that defies expectations. From excelling as a Product Manager at tech giant Salesforce, to becoming a published author of two influential books on immigration and finally to founding her own startup, Unshackled, Soundarya has constantly pushed boundaries.  In this very revealing episode, we peel back the layers of Soundarya Balasubramani's public persona and take a look at the unseen chapters of her life. Tune in to hear a very personal journey behind her success where we talk about loneliness, family, mentorship, her next book '1000 Days of Love' and the recent merger of Unshackled with Greencard Inc and many more. This episode goes beyond immigration advice. It offers a rare glimpse into the emotional and intellectual landscape of someone who's turned her challenges into a mission to help others. Join us for a conversation that's as inspiring as it is intimate, revealing the true heart behind the Unshackled movement. If you want to say hi or have an idea for a podcast episode, this is an easy way for you to reach out. We’ll be more than happy to hear from you! If you enjoyed the episode, don't forget to show us some love by giving us a rating and writing a review!

    1 hr

  6. 06/19/2024

    O Canada, Can You Let Me Work?

    One of the biggest impediments in moving to Canada is the stress of finding a new job. What if you could have the best of both worlds? What if you could work for your US employer and still enjoy the immigration freedom Canada has to offer? Sounds too good to be true right? Apparently not.  In today's episode, we are joined by Marc Pavlopoulos, the founder of Syndesus. Being a former Silicon Valley entrepreneur, Marc has seen first hand the negative impact that the H-1B lottery system has on the STEM talent in the country.  Companies scramble to find alternative options when their employees have been unsuccessful in their 3rd and final attempt at the lottery for the coveted work visa. Having the unique advantage of understanding the Canadian Immigration system, he immediately saw a solution that would help companies retain their talent and as a result Syndesus was born. By partnering with the employee's existing employer, Syndesus is able to relocate the employee to Canada on a work permit becoming the link between the employee and their existing employer.  Tune in to hear about Marc's early days in Silicon Valley and his passion for leveraging tech to solve problems. You'll walk away understanding how Syndesus works and how this is a great option to pursue if you're considering a transition to Canada.  At the end of the episode Marc has a discount for all Area 51 podcast listeners. If you ever choose to work with Syndesus in the future, this is definitely something to take advantage of! If you want to say hi or have an idea for a podcast episode, this is an easy way for you to reach out. We’ll be more than happy to hear from you! If you enjoyed the episode, don't forget to show us some love by giving us a rating and writing a review!

    51 min

  7. 05/31/2024

    O Canada, Can You Let Me In?

    Often considered a consolation prize for those facing immigration issues, Canada has always been a topic of discussion for visa holders in America. In today's episode, we are joined by Sindhu Mahadevan to better understand the Canadian immigration landscape. Creator of the immigration newsletter 'This Immigrant Life', Sindhu is a 'US dropout' who has lived in both US & Canada. Due to this first hand experience, Sindhu has a unique perspective on the immigration systems in both the countries.  Join us as we delve into the intricacies of the Canadian immigration system and how they differ from their US counterparts. Whether you're considering a move to Canada or just curious about the process, this episode will provide you with valuable information and practical advice. Discover if Canada might be the ideal place for your new start or if it's better for you to continue living in America.  If you want to say hi or have an idea for a podcast episode, this is an easy way for you to reach out. We’ll be more than happy to hear from you! If you enjoyed the episode, don't forget to show us some love by giving us a rating and writing a review!

    1h 3m

  8. 05/03/2024

    The Brooklyn Curry Project

    As an Indian immigrant in America, one thing we all miss is the food back home. We've felt it and we're sure all of you have as well. Have we done anything about it? Probably not!  In today's episode, we are joined by the founders of the Brooklyn Curry Project, Swetha and Venkat , two immigrants from Bangalore, India, whose shared love for traditional Indian cuisine sparked a business that has taken the New York  food scene by storm. In this episode, we dive into their story, exploring how a lemonade stand  transitioned to a  South Indian food stall , turning their passion for food into a successful venture. From supporting Indian farmers to building a strong community of dosa lovers, Brooklyn Curry Project has done it all.   Tune in to hear about the Brooklyn Curry Project's rise to fame, their awesome community and what the future holds for this dynamic couple. It's an episode filled with heart, flavor, and inspiration you won't want to miss! If you want to say hi or have an idea for a podcast episode, this is an easy way for you to reach out. We’ll be more than happy to hear from you! If you enjoyed the episode, don't forget to show us some love by giving us a rating and writing a review!

    51 min
See All (23)

5
out of 5
36 Ratings

About

It's just immigration, it's not rocket science, or is it? If you're a visa / “temporary” status holder in the US and have often found that it was easier navigating through the politics of Game of Thrones than understand the US immigration system, you're not alone. In this podcast, we aim to talk about the problems we face as immigrants here. The way we see it, we're all in for a long 20+ year long (some even up to 436 years!) rollercoaster ride waiting for our Green Cards, dealing with the dizzying highs of getting approved visas to the stomach-dropping lows of dealing with government bureaucracy and 221g’s. Add in a few more flavors such as Trump, COVID-19, layoffs and recessions to this quagmire of a maze, and we may as well be living the Hunger Games in pursuit of permanent residency in the US. We realized early on that whining about this situation can only get us so far. The more we educate ourselves and others about the system, the better armed we are to beat the system. And if we can all have a few laughs along the way, we might just be able to make process a little more fun.

Information

  • Creator
    Rahul Menon
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2025
  • Episodes
    23
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Area 51
  • Show Website
    Area 51