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.

    172: Turning Adversity into Opportunity: Faris Alami's Path from Refugee to Entrepreneur

    172: Turning Adversity into Opportunity: Faris Alami's Path from Refugee to Entrepreneur

    Faris Alami's incredible life story unfolds in this episode, as he recounts his transformation from a Palestinian refugee to a notable entrepreneur and leader. His narrative is a testament to the indomitable human spirit and showcases the profound impact of vision and hard work. In a revealing conversation, Faris takes us through his early adversities during the first Gulf War, the cultural and educational challenges he faced in the United States, and the entrepreneurial triumphs that followed. His founding of International Strategic Management and advising roles offer a beacon of hope and a roadmap to success for anyone with the courage to follow their dreams.
    This episode is a treasure trove for aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly those from underserved communities or immigrant backgrounds. Learn how Faris's innovative two-page business plan and strategic insights have empowered numerous minority entrepreneurs to overcome cultural barriers and networking gaps. We shine a light on the crucial influence that entrepreneurs have, not just within local communities in the U.S. but on a global scale. Faris's journey epitomizes the philosophy of 'Start Where You Are,' proving that with the right mindset, even the most modest beginnings can lead to remarkable achievements.
    In this episode, you’ll hear about: From refugee to entrepreneur Supporting underserved entrepreneurs and communities Startup funding and networking strategies Importance of entrepreneurship in communities Resilient entrepreneurial leadership insights 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: Social Links for Faris
    LinkedIn
    Facebook 
    Twitter
    Instagram
    Social Links for ISM
    LinkedIn
    Facebook
    Instagram
    Books
    Start Where You Are 
    Power of 7 in Marketing
    Courses
    Power of 7 Marketing Program—My ISM Inc
    The Resilient Entrepreneur Course | International Strategic Management
    Podcast 
    Finjan Show
    Publication
    “When Adversity Becomes an Advantage”
    Alcorn Immigration Law: Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter
    Sophie Alcorn Podcast:
    Episode 089: Advocating for International Startup Founders with Jeff Farrah of National Venture Capital Association
    Episode 145: Financial Freedom and the Near-Future of Venture Capital with Asra Nadeem
    Episode 159: From Founding to Funding: Understanding Venture Capital Potential with Kristen Ostro & Nicole Fuller
    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
    171: Navigating Space Governance, Peace, and Inclusive Leadership

    171: Navigating Space Governance, Peace, and Inclusive Leadership

    Embark on a transformative journey with Cynda Collins Arsenault, the philanthropic mind behind Secure World Foundation and Our Secure Future, as she shares her inspiring vision for a world where outer space serves as a conduit for global peace. This episode traverses Cynda's voyage from activism to entrepreneurship, revealing how she meshes the pursuit of personal success with the quest for societal betterment.  
    We also delve into the critical challenges of space debris management, the development of anti-satellite test regulations, and the exhilarating prospect of the Secure World Foundation's Space Sustainability Summit, which fosters groundbreaking dialogue and collaboration among space industry stakeholders.
    In this episode, you’ll hear about: Building a peaceful future through collaboration Shifting mindsets in the space sector Empowering women in leadership roles Empowering women for a better future 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: Secure World Foundation - www.swfound.org 
    Our Secure Future - Women Make the Difference - www.oursecurefuture.org
    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 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.

    • 38 min
    170: Strategic Expansion for Founders: Lessons from Serial Entrepreneur David Rose

    170: Strategic Expansion for Founders: Lessons from Serial Entrepreneur David Rose

    Ever wondered how to crack the code of US market expansion? Join us as David Rose, CEO of US Expansion Partners, shares the playbook for international founders to hit the ground running in the competitive American business landscape. His stories from scaling startups to lucrative exits are packed with wisdom on market timing, intuition, and the art of making your move at just the right moment. David's journey from Fortune 500 beginnings to startup stardom is a masterclass for entrepreneurs looking to make their mark. 
    Venture capital can seem like a world shrouded in mystery – and David is here to reveal the intricate dance between VCs and founders. We discuss the pressures of managing investment funds and the significance of forging personal connections in this high-stakes ecosystem. He offers strategic insights into navigating VC relationships and the importance of due diligence before stepping into the venture capital arena.
    David unfolds an actionable roadmap for startups ready to take on the adventure of US expansion. We delve into the readiness scoring system that could signal your company's perfect timing to enter the US domain. And for those outside the Silicon Valley bubble, learn how to leverage your network and tap into essential human elements that could open doors to funding opportunities. 
    In this episode, you’ll hear about: Venture capital and entrepreneurship insights Founder and CEO empathy and connections Product market fit for international expansion US expansion for European startups Launching a startup in the US 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: eBook: https://www.usexpansionpartners.com/essentials-for-us-expansion-ebook
    Site Selection Tool: https://www.usexpansionpartners.com/quiz
    Alcorn Immigration Law: Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter Sophie Alcorn Podcast: Episode 113: How startup founders are moving to the US Episode 146: Access to Innovation: Founders and the Blockchain with Samuel Ekpe Episode 151: Exploring Global Growth Strategies for EU Founders with Daniel Zawarczynski 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
    169: Startup Sustainability: Legal Lessons and the Climate Crisis with Sam McClure

    169: Startup Sustainability: Legal Lessons and the Climate Crisis with Sam McClure

    How do startups maneuver through the complex intersection of law, sustainability, and innovation? Sam McClure, a beacon of environmental advocacy and Stanford Law lecturer, joins me to unwrap this intricate puzzle, sharing his transition from a government career to fostering eco-conscious businesses. 
    As we traverse Sam's journey and the evolution of Stanford's pro bono legal aid for startups, you'll be privy to tales of resilience and the profound impact of environmental stewardship across professional endeavors. We examine the gritty realities of co-founder dynamics and client relations, shedding light on the virtues of patience, humility, and the power of human connections that often turn legal challenges into growth opportunities. We also delve into the subtleties of non-verbal communication and how our behaviors can either erode or cultivate trust and leadership within our teams – insights you won't want to miss for your own professional toolkit. 
    From algae farming to solar energy, learn about the exciting legal frontiers these innovative ventures face and how they're paving the way for a future where business success and environmental health go hand in hand. Join us for an episode that's not just about legalities and startups, but a journey towards a greener tomorrow.
    In this episode, you’ll hear about: Stanford Startup Law Sustainability Program
    Navigating co-founder and client relationships
    Leadership, trust, and self-care practices
    Long-term views on the climate crisis
    Circular economy and sustainability startup trends
    Navigating sustainability and law
    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://law.stanford.edu/sam-mcclure/
    https://law.stanford.edu/startup-law-sustainability
    https://www.cedargrovecounsel.com/
    https://www.amazon.com/Leadership-Self-Deception-Getting-Out-Box/dp/1523097809/ref=sr_1_1?hvadid=580751260451&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=9031968&hvnetw=g&hvqmt=e&hvrand=7134004013860384827&hvtargid=kwd-307853283104&hydadcr=22595_13493276&keywords=leadership+and+self-deception+book&qid=1707334425&sr=8-1
     

    • 1 hr 1 min
    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

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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