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100 episodes
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Sophie Alcorn Podcast Sophie Alcorn
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- Business
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4.8 • 23 Ratings
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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.
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185: Transforming Space Sustainability into a Viable Business: Insights from Daniel Porras
Can space debris trigger an international crisis? Join us as we uncover the intricate world of space law and policy with Daniel Porras, Corporate Counsel and Director of International Government and Regulatory Affairs at Rogue Space Systems. Daniel shares his expert insights on the escalating participation of private enterprises in space and the labyrinthine legal frameworks governing satellite operations. With up to two million new satellites expected by 2030, the conversation delves into the urgency of establishing clear international regulations to prevent conflicts and ensure the longevity of space missions.
Imagine a world without GPS – our economic stability and security hanging by a thread. This episode underscores the critical reliance on GPS for essential functions, from financial transactions on Wall Street to daily navigation. We explore the dire consequences of a GPS system failure, be it from solar flares or hostile acts, and spotlight the environmental and commercial dangers posed by anti-satellite weapon tests. Through the lens of Russia's controversial 2021 test that jeopardized the International Space Station, we examine the persistent challenges in managing space debris and ensuring space security. We also underscore the importance of fostering global talent and innovation to propel the space industry forward.
In this episode, you’ll hear about: Future of space law and policy
GPS impact on economy and security
Space debris cleanup and international diplomacy
Space sustainability and law overview
Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.
Supporting Resources: https://swfound.org/media/207263/secure-world-foundation_space-sustainability-infographic.pdf
https://swfound.org/news/all-news/2022/06/swf-releases-new-infographic-on-anti-satellite-weapons-and-space-sustainability/
All I Need To Know I Learned in Kindergarten by Robert Fulghum-page-001.jpg
https://blogs.lse.ac.uk/lsereviewofbooks/2012/06/17/elinor-ostroms-work-on-governing-the-commons-an-appreciation/
https://www.alcorn.law/podcast/sap171/ Cynda Secure World Foundation
https://space.n2k.com/podcasts/t-minus/278
His book: https://www.amazon.com/Walk-Tale-Written-Sand/dp/B0CGWX3WZ7
Website: https://rogue.space/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-porras-a1a340250/
Email: daniel.porras@rogue.space
Alcorn Immigration Law: Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter
Sophie Alcorn Podcast:
Episode 162: From Earth to Orbit: A Dialogue on Startups, Export Control, and Space Law with Bailey Reichelt
Episode 168: Into the Cosmos: Space Startups, Regulatory Hurdles, and Pioneering Tomorrow with Bryce Kennedy
Episode 171: Navigating Space Governance, Peace, and Inclusive Leadership
Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders
Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
Alcorn Academy course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code EAB20 for 20% off the enrollment fee. -
184: Beyond the Atmosphere: Understanding Space Governance with Michelle Hanlon
In this episode, we’re joined by Michelle Hanlon, the Executive Director of the Air and Space Law Program at the University of Mississippi and co-founder of For All Moonkind, to discuss the burgeoning field of space law. Michelle offers a unique glimpse into the legal landscape governing our cosmic ambitions.
Learn about the challenges and implications of the current space treaties, the absence of immigration laws for space, and what this means for the future of space travel and asteroid mining. Michelle delves into the stringent Planetary Protection Protocols outlined in the Outer Space Treaty and their role in preventing contamination of celestial bodies. We also touch on the concept of space heritage, drawing parallels to Earth's conservation efforts, and examine the insufficient protection of lunar landmarks under current international law.
With government support helping startups thrive, Michelle predicts a normalized human presence on the moon by 2050 and discusses the broad spectrum of opportunities in the space economy. From specialized spacesuits to agriculture solutions, the possibilities are endless. We also explore how everyday skills on Earth, like cooking and teaching, have valuable applications in space.
In this episode, you’ll hear about:
The complexities and implications of current space treaties and the absence of immigration laws for space
The stringent Planetary Protection Protocols and their role in preventing contamination of celestial bodies
Legal challenges of innovations like bacteria that convert metal into soil on Mars
The concept of space heritage and the insufficient protection of lunar landmarks under current international law
Predictions for the future of the space industry, including a normalized human presence on the moon by 2050
How everyday skills on Earth have valuable applications in space
Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.
Supporting Resources: Website: forallmoonkind.org
Social Links:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-l-d-hanlon/
X: @hanlonesq
Instagram: @spacelawyerhanlon
Facebook: Michelle Slawecki Hanlon
Alcorn Immigration Law: Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter
Sophie Alcorn Podcast:
Episode 171: Navigating Space Governance, Peace, and Inclusive Leadership
Episode 173: In Orbit with Alice Carruth: Insights on Space Exploration, Communication, and Innovation
Episode 176: Foreign Workers & Export Controls in the Space Industry: Insights from Jack Shelton
Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders
Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
Alcorn Academy course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code EAB20 for 20% off the enrollment fee. -
183: Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: Insights from Dr. Gena Gorlin on Founder Psychology
Ever wondered how successful tech founders keep their mental game strong? Dr. Gena Gorlin, a clinical associate professor turned psychologist for ambitious innovators, joins us to share her unique journey and insights. We discuss overcoming imposter syndrome, embracing our identities as founders, and the importance of identifying and leaning into our strengths. Gena brings a wealth of knowledge from her transition from traditional psychology to working with driven individuals who are shaping the tech landscape, offering invaluable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.
The path to founding a company is rarely straightforward, riddled with uncertainty, trial and error, and inevitable mistakes. We unpack these natural parts of the entrepreneurial process, juxtaposing the polished success stories seen in the media with the messy reality. Our conversation highlights the importance of vulnerability and sharing real experiences, providing reassurance that founders are not alone in their challenges. We also dive into the builder's mindset and founder wisdom, exploring the fascination with biohacking and the drive to extend lifespans.
In this episode, you’ll hear about: Overcoming imposter syndrome in founders
The impact of failure on entrepreneurship
The myth of suffering for success
Decoupling suffering from greatness
Embracing mental health challenges
Early morning meditation benefits and biohacking
Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.
Supporting Resources: builders.genagorlin.com (my Substack)
genagorlin.com/coaching.php (founder coaching)
Invest Like The Best #336 Jeremy Giffon: Special Situations in Private Markets (Spotify) (Apple))
Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang On Building Resilience With Pain and Suffering
Social Links:
Social media: @Gena_I_Gorlin (Twitter), https://www.linkedin.com/in/genagorlin/
Email: gena.gorlin@gmail.com
Alcorn Immigration Law: Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter
Sophie Alcorn Podcast:
Episode 151: Exploring Global Growth Strategies for EU Founders with Daniel Zawarczynski
Episode 165: Foreign Roots to Silicon Valley Heights: The Exit Journey of International Founder Alfonso de la Nuez
Episode 170: Strategic Expansion for Founders: Lessons from Serial Entrepreneur David Rose
Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders
Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
Alcorn Academy course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code EAB20 for 20% off the enrollment fee. -
182: Transatlantic Ventures: Daniel Glazer on Scaling Tech Companies Globally
Unlock the secrets to successful transatlantic startup expansion with insights from Dan Glazer, the dynamic leader of the US Expansion Group at Wilson Sonsini's London office. Listen to Dan's personal narrative of moving from the US to the UK and his early love affair with London, as well as his instrumental role in initiatives like Tech Nation and the British American Project.
Navigate the intricacies of raising venture capital across borders as Dan shares strategies for smoothing cross-border deals through integrated legal teams and the importance of training dual-qualified lawyers. Discover how the influx of American venture funds into London is changing the fundraising landscape for UK and European startups, and learn key tactics to attract US-based investors, including the critical role of having a strong product market fit in the US.
Explore the nuances of global venture capital and the strategic considerations for expanding into the US, from the location of talent and proximity to customers, to cost implications and managing teams across time zones. Dan underscores the transformative potential of AI, paralleling it to the dot-com era, and offers practical advice for startups aiming to build a transatlantic presence.
In this episode, you’ll hear about: Strategies for raising venture capital across borders
Market size impact on early stage fundraising
Signals to raise from US investors at an early stage
8 considerations for US business location
Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.
Supporting Resources: Wilson Sonsini’s US Expansion and Fundraising FAQ link: https://medium.com/@daniel.glazer/u-s-expansion-and-fundraising-a-comprehensive-faq-3bf143cd5249
Website: www.wsgr.com
Social Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielcglazer/
Email: daniel.glazer@wsgr.com
Alcorn Immigration Law: Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter
Sophie Alcorn Podcast:
Episode 139: Why Choose the L-1 for Startups with Nadia Zaidi
Episode 162: From Earth to Orbit: A Dialogue on Startups, Export Control, and Space Law with Bailey Reichelt
Episode 165: Foreign Roots to Silicon Valley Heights: The Exit Journey of International Founder Alfonso de la Nuez
Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders
Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
Alcorn Academy course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code EAB20 for 20% off the enrollment fee. -
181: Balancing Business and Justice: Fiona McEntee on U.S. Immigration and Startup Law
What if compassion and entrepreneurship could go hand in hand? Join us as we sit down with Fiona McEntee, an Irish immigrant and the managing attorney of McEntee Law Group, to explore how her journey to the United States shaped her career in immigration law. Fiona shares her inspiring path, from participating in an exchange program and studying law in Chicago to becoming a passionate advocate for startup founders.
Hear firsthand accounts of the human challenges behind visas and green cards, including Fiona's poignant experiences during the Trump administration's Muslim ban. Witness the resilience of startup founders in healthcare and technology spaces and the grassroots efforts that arose when policies threatened their dreams. We dissect the chaotic scenes at airports and the emotional toll on families, emphasizing the critical role of volunteer attorneys like Fiona who stepped up during times of crisis.
As we move into practical strategies for navigating business immigration amidst policy changes, Fiona provides essential insights into the Biden administration’s supportive measures, such as the O1A visa and international entrepreneur parole. We delve into her advocacy work, including changes to the International Entrepreneur Rule and her efforts to make complex immigration issues understandable for children through her books.
In this episode, you’ll hear about: The human stories behind visas and green cards Impact of immigration policies on the economy Navigating business immigration amid changing policies Supporting immigrant founders with VC funding Advocating for immigration reform Defining the American Dream Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.
Supporting Resources: Book: U.S. Immigration Options for Startups: Accelerate Your American Dream
Children’s Book: Our American Dream
Website: https://mcenteelaw.com/
Social Links:
Instagram: @usvisalawyer
YouTube: @McEnteeLawGroupImmigration
X: @USVisaLawyer
TikTok: @immigrationlawyerfiona
LinkedIn : Fiona McEntee, J.D.
Alcorn Immigration Law: Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter Sophie Alcorn Podcast: Episode 39: Startup Law with Attorney Lindsey Mignano Episode 166: IP Insight: Safeguarding your Startup with Sanjay Prasad 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 EAB20 for 20% off the enrollment fee. -
180: Investing in the Final Frontier: Insights from Chris Reichelt
What if you could be at the forefront of the next industrial revolution – this time, in space? Join us as we sit down with Chris Reichelt, the dynamic VP of Operations at Mach33 Financial Group, who seamlessly transitioned from an Air Force pilot flying missions to the Arctic Circle to becoming a leading investment strategist in the space sector. Chris's fascinating journey from an aspiring astronaut to a finance expert offers a rich tapestry of experiences and insights. We'll explore the commercial opportunities within space, drawing parallels to the American industrialization era, and uncover the pivotal role of strategic capital allocation in advancing space technologies.
Imagine moon vacations, space-based data centers, and quantum-secured communications by 2045. In this episode, we paint a vivid picture of the future of space technology, highlighting emerging innovations from lunar imaging to fuel depots that could redefine satellite lifespans. Chris also shares invaluable advice on startup funding timelines, the best U.S. locations for space ventures, and the importance of building effective teams. We delve into notable investments in pioneering companies like SpaceX and Relativity Space, offering a roadmap for science-focused entrepreneurs eager to navigate the complexities of business and sales in this exciting frontier.
In this episode, you’ll hear about: Insights on the space industry and innovative investments for next-gen technologies
The state of space technology in 2045
Emerging technologies like quantum time synchronization and cryptography
Nature's extended timelines and capital requirements
Building complementary teams for space tech founders
Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.
Supporting Resources: Website: https://www.33fg.com/
Social Links:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-reichelt-57ba19109/
X : @ChrisReichelt7
Alcorn Immigration Law: Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter
Sophie Alcorn Podcast:
Episode 154: The Deep Tech Investment: Inner Space, Outer Space, and Startup Investing with Danny Crichton
Episode 168: Into the Cosmos: Space Startups, Regulatory Hurdles, and Pioneering Tomorrow with Bryce Kennedy
Episode 171: Navigating Space Governance, Peace, and Inclusive Leadership
Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders
Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
Alcorn Academy course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.
Customer Reviews
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!
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
Practical information well presented
Sophie's presentation is clear, easy to understand. This will be a valuable resource.