100 episodes

Sophie’s mission is to overcome borders, expand opportunity, and connect the world by practicing compassionate, visionary, and rigorous immigration law in service of the betterment of humanity. She believes that immigration fuels innovation and is inspired by amazing women and men who reach beyond the status quo to create their dreams.

The Sophie Alcorn Podcast features inspiring interviews that empower global leaders to influence change, regardless of their geographic location, place of birth, or citizenship. The conversations you'll hear about rapidly scaling tech companies and highly-motivated global founders creating new technologies will inspire you to manifest a new world.

Sophie Alcorn is the author of the weekly Ask Sophie column in TechCrunch and Ask Sophie: The Founder’s Guide to Visas & Green Cards. She is the founding attorney at Alcorn Immigration Law, the go-to resource for founders, HR, and technology professionals to obtain U.S. visas and green cards.

Sophie Alcorn Podcast Sophie Alcorn

    • Business
    • 4.8 • 23 Ratings

Sophie’s mission is to overcome borders, expand opportunity, and connect the world by practicing compassionate, visionary, and rigorous immigration law in service of the betterment of humanity. She believes that immigration fuels innovation and is inspired by amazing women and men who reach beyond the status quo to create their dreams.

The Sophie Alcorn Podcast features inspiring interviews that empower global leaders to influence change, regardless of their geographic location, place of birth, or citizenship. The conversations you'll hear about rapidly scaling tech companies and highly-motivated global founders creating new technologies will inspire you to manifest a new world.

Sophie Alcorn is the author of the weekly Ask Sophie column in TechCrunch and Ask Sophie: The Founder’s Guide to Visas & Green Cards. She is the founding attorney at Alcorn Immigration Law, the go-to resource for founders, HR, and technology professionals to obtain U.S. visas and green cards.

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

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

    Have you ever envisioned the vast reaches of space as humanity's next frontier? Bryce Kennedy, the visionary at the helm of the Association of Commercial Space Professionals, joins us for an enthralling journey through the evolving cosmos of space exploration and regulation. 
    From the inception of a specialized Space Regulatory Bootcamp to his personal odyssey from law to space pedagogy, Bryce sheds light on how startups can steer clear of regulatory black holes and shares his dream of a society navigating the stars. Together, we contemplate the revolutionary leap for humanity as our celestial ambitions become an extension of our daily existence. 
    We chart the course of constructing legal scaffolding to support the celestial leap of our species – where a Zen outlook meets the drafting tables of lawmakers. With maritime law as our North Star, we delve into how historical seafaring codes influence modern space legislature, the role diversity plays in drafting these cosmic rules, and how treaties like the Outer Space Treaty anchor us. From the non-weaponization of space to the conceptualization of extraterrestrial safety zones for mining ventures, we ponder the legal fabric that might hold together our interstellar tapestry. 
    In this episode, you’ll hear about: Star Trek's impact on space Transcendence and unity through meditation Visas and green cards for founders Safety zones and ownership in space Space startups facing regulatory challenges Impacts of space technology on earth Humanity's hope for space exploration 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://acsp.space/abq24bootcamp/
    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 157: Space is Our Future, with Christopher Hearsey Episode 162: From Earth to Orbit: A Dialogue on Startups, Export Control, and Space Law with Bailey Reichelt 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.  

    • 42 min
    167: Charting the Path for Global Growth: Candid Conversations on Successful U.S Expansion with Brian Frumberg

    167: Charting the Path for Global Growth: Candid Conversations on Successful U.S Expansion with Brian Frumberg

    Let’s delve into the world of international startups and their journey to mastering the U.S. market. In this episode, I’m thrilled to have Brian Frumberg, the CEO and founder of VentureOut. We unlock the strategies and insights necessary for global startups to thrive in the competitive landscape of American business. Whether you're an entrepreneur dreaming of Silicon Valley or a seasoned founder looking to expand, this episode is a treasure trove of wisdom on navigating venture capital and establishing a successful presence in the U.S. 
    As international innovation collides with American enterprise, we dissect the intricate relationship between global startups and U.S. market dynamics. Succeeding in the U.S. is not just about who you know, but how you grow your business with specialized tactics and sector-specific support. If you're an international entrepreneur eyeing the U.S. market, prepare to be armed with the knowledge and confidence needed to venture into the U.S. with strategic finesse after tuning in to our conversation with Brian Frumberg.
    In this episode, you’ll hear about: The positive impact of international startups on the U.S. economy Why success is more than networking - it's about specialized growth tactics The art of fundraising with a sales mindset Strategies and challenges for immigrant founders in the U.S.  Leadership's role in establishing market fit 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: VentureOut
    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 ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.  

    • 44 min
    166: IP Insight: Safeguarding your Startup with Sanjay Prasad

    166: IP Insight: Safeguarding your Startup with Sanjay Prasad

    Unlock the secrets of intellectual property law and elevate your startup with the wisdom of Sanjay Prasad, a maestro in the IP legal field. If you're an entrepreneur looking to stand your ground in the innovation arena, this is the essential listening you've been searching for. Our engaging discourse delves into the dynamic realms of IP, from trademarks that thrive with use to the strategic timing of patent filings. 
    Sanjay, with his wealth of expertise, unveils the subtle complexities of keeping your trade secrets under wraps and leveraging patents as the heavyweight champions of protection in the entrepreneurial ring. As a founder, you're constantly charting new territories, and understanding the global landscape of IP is your map to success. 
    We dissect the role of provisional patent applications in securing visas for your team's brightest stars and the art of wielding patents in the competitive market, even before they mature into enforceable rights. Sanjay guides us through the labyrinth of international IP protection, offering sage advice on where to plant your patent flags and how to maximize your business fortress against invasive competitors.
    In this episode, you’ll hear about: Foundational set-up considerations for entrepreneurs History and process of patent ownership Intellectual property and public domain protection Patent filing and enforcement process  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: Appleton Luff's website: appletonluff.com
    Sanjay's linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/prasadip
    Alcorn Immigration Law: Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter Sophie Alcorn Podcast: Episode 152: Startup Funding Decoded: Securing the Investment with Michael Avent Episode 113: How startup founders are moving to the US Episode 143: Free Money and Funding Your Startup with Sedale Turbovsky 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.  

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

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

    Embark on an entrepreneurial odyssey with Alfonso de la Nuez, the visionary co-founder behind UserZoom's jaw-dropping $810 million acquisition by Thoma Bravo. From the roots of a modest Spanish startup to the fruits of a $100 million ARR (Annual Recurring Revenue) behemoth, Alfonso's tale is one of grit, innovation, and the cultural bridges crossed in Silicon Valley's vibrant startup landscape. His transition from CEO to advisor, post-merger with UserTesting, is a lesson in adaptability and strategic foresight – a narrative that reveals the heart of an industry in flux and the transformative power of user experience insights. 
    The Spanish startup ecosystem's dramatic evolution serves as the backdrop to our conversation with Alfonso, painting a vivid picture of Spain's recent renaissance in entrepreneurship. He delves into the psychological pivot as Spanish entrepreneurs embrace stock options and financial participation and how significant exits such as his are revolutionizing the perception of wealth and ambition. But it's not just about the money – the art of product-market fit and Alfonso's dual role in shaping product development and market strategy underscores the competitive edge that user experience has carved out, especially in a world reshaped by the pandemic. 
    In this episode, you’ll hear about: Entrepreneurship and cultural shifts in Spain Negotiations for majority control and investment Building successful startup through transitions Challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship Motivation, culture, and startups 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: Alcorn Immigration Law: Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter Sophie Alcorn Podcast: Episode 16: E-2 Visa for Founders and Employees Episode 89: Advocating for International Startup Founders with Jeff Farrah of National Venture Capital Association Episode 146: Access to Innovation: Founders and the Blockchain with Samuel Ekpe 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.

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

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

    It's the H-1B season! 
    Therefore, it's very important to create a comprehensive legal plan at the beginning of any case before filing any documents. 
    But how can you prepare a really strong H-1B petition?
    In this episode, we discuss the legal elements of what an H-1B requires, the process, the timeline, and how to avoid Requests for Evidence. 
    We also touch on some specific job classifications that have been problematic in the past. 
    In this episode, you’ll hear about: The 3 key elements of an H-1B Some defining characteristics of the H-1B: prevailing wage, job description, etc. Points you need to discuss with your immigration lawyer Immigration documents and requirements for each candidate 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: Alcorn Immigration Law Firm
    For more information, get the Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook.
    https://www.alcorn.law/allaboutH-1Bs
    Alcorn Immigration Law: Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter Sophie Alcorn Podcast: Episode 16: E-2 Visa for Founders and Employees Episode 19: Australian Visas Including E-3 Episode 20: TN Visas and Status for Canadian and Mexican Citizens 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.  

    • 29 min
    163: Disrupting the System: Deconstructing U.S. Labor Markets and Immigration with Lindsay Milliken

    163: Disrupting the System: Deconstructing U.S. Labor Markets and Immigration with Lindsay Milliken

    Imagine a world where the brightest tech minds from around the globe converge in the United States to innovate and drive our industries forward. That's the future Lindsay Milliken of the Institute for Progress envisions, and she sits down with us to outline how revamping Schedule A can make this a reality. 
    As we traverse the landscape of US tech immigration policy with Lindsay, we uncover her thought-provoking proposals designed to attract and simplify the hiring process for foreign talent, especially from underrepresented regions. She brings her research and advocacy to the table, sharing the potential impact on tech and startup job markets, while also introducing the Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp, helping those with exceptional skills navigate the complexities of US immigration. 
    In this episode, you’ll hear about: Schedule A's impact on immigration Navigating immigration pathways for healthcare professionals Measuring labor demand for in-demand occupations Flexible and transparent job shortage evaluation Timeline and likelihood of regulatory change Challenges with engineering and academic journals Green card recapture and immigration policy 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: Full Schedule A report IFP: https://ifp.org/schedule-a/#methodology-to-support-a-modernized-schedule-a-list
    Our Washington Post op-ed: https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2023/12/14/labor-shortages-immigration-schedule-a/
    My regulatory history of Schedule A: https://lawreviewblog.uchicago.edu/2020/09/22/milliken-schedule-a/
    The current Federal Register post: https://www.federalregister.gov/public-inspection/2023-27938/labor-certification-for-permanent-employment-of-foreign-workers-in-the-united-states-modernizing - there'll be a new link when it is officially published (likely tomorrow)
    The AI EO: https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2023/10/30/executive-order-on-the-safe-secure-and-trustworthy-development-and-use-of-artificial-intelligence/
    Alcorn Immigration Law: Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter Sophie Alcorn Podcast: Episode 155: Scaling Success: Leading Multicultural Tech Teams in the U.S. with Trista Taylor Episode 159: From Founding to Funding: Understanding Venture Capital Potential with Kristen Ostro & Nicole Fuller Episode 160: Startup Acceleration and Immigration Insights with SV Veteran Miles Randle 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.

    • 45 min

Customer Reviews

4.8 out of 5
23 Ratings

23 Ratings

Iamnotagamer ,

This is so useful!

As an immigrant, working in Silicon Valley it is hard to find accurate source of information on this complex topic. This podcast is a great resource to navigate the h1b, green card situation for entrepreneurs or immigrant professionals in general.

Nice work!

Raiyanr ,

Too much unnecessary information

Thankful for what you guys share. Podcast related to US immigration is a great way to serve those in need, especially since the US Immigration System is not easy to navigate. While I appreciate your service, I believe most of your podcasts could be shorter if you can just get to the point instead of providing too much unnecessary information. Sometimes it takes up to 10 min before you start talking about the substance. By the time you get to the point you’ve already lost the attention because you’ve shared iterated and regurgitated way too much unnecessary information. Time is precious and it’s more precious for those with a constantly ticking clock.

I hope you’ll find my review helpful

Thank you

Laniedenslow ,

Practical information well presented

Sophie's presentation is clear, easy to understand. This will be a valuable resource.

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