Immigration Nerds

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. 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 peole 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

In an interview recorded on Wednesday, February 21, 2024, Immigration Nerds host Lauren Clarke talked to David J. Bier, Associate Director of Immigration Studies at the Cato Institute about the state of America's legal immigration system. Mr. Bier recently testified at a hearing before the Committee on Oversight and Accountability in the United States House of Representatives. In that testimony and on this episode of the Immigration Nerds, Bier discusses the the parole sponsorship program, illegal encounters at the border, and his analysis of what legal immigration should look like in the United States.GUEST: David J. Bier, Associate Director of Immigration Studies | Cato InstituteHOST: Lauren Clarke, Senior Attorney, Erickson Immigration GroupNEWS NERD: Rob Taylor, Partner & Shareholder, Erickson Immigration GroupPRODUCER: Adam BelmarSHOW RESOURCE LINKS:Immigration Hearing of the Committee on Oversight and Accountability for United States House of Representatives January 17, 2024

The H-1B Domestic Visa Renewal pilot program launched on January 29, 2024. The Immigration Nerds - senior attorney and host, Lauren Clarke and senior managing attorney consular affairs, Diane Holcombe-Geddens - talk about the program and share valuable insight and process notes as the program gets underway.GUEST: Diane Holcombe-Geddens, Senior Managing Attorney, Consular Affairs, EIGHOST: Lauren Clarke, Erickson Immigration Group, Senior AttorneyNEWS: Rob Taylor, Erickson Immigration Group PartnerPRODUCER: Adam BelmarSHOW RESOURCE LINKS: Domestic Renewal of H-1B Nonimmigrant Visas for Certain Applicants

Immigration Nerds host Lauren Clarke interviews César Cuauhtémoc García Hernández, author of the book, Welcome the Wretched: In Defense of the “Criminal Alien,” which explores the intersection of US immigration law and the criminal justice system. Also in this episode, news updates on USCIS policy guidance on student visas and fee increases for immigration services. GUEST: César Cuauhtémoc García Hernández / Author, Immigration Lawyer, Gregory H. Williams Chair in Civil Rights and Civil Liberties at the Ohio State University Moritz College of LawHOST: Lauren ClarkePRODUCER: Adam BelmarSHOW RESOURCE LINKS:Welcome the Wretched: In Defense of the “Criminal Alien,” by César Cuauhtémoc García Hernández

The Immigration Nerds host Lauren Clarke is joined by Stuart Anderson, executive director of the National Foundation for American Policy, to discuss his Forbes article, "The Most Inspiring Immigration Stories Of 2023." Hit play and learn about a teenage immigrant from Ethiopia who became one of America's top young scientists; a Mexican immigrant who became a successful entrepreneur; a Vietnamese refugee who won an Academy Award; and a group of Ukrainian refugees who helped Mississippi tornado victims.GUEST: Stuart Anderson, Executive Director, National Foundation for American Policy & Senior Contributor, ForbesHOST: Lauren ClarkePRODUCER: Adam BelmarSHOW RESOURCE LINKS: The Most Inspiring Immigration Stories Of 2023 By Stuart Anderson, Senior Contributor, Forbes

Guest: Dan Restrepo & Erin Sikorsky, Climate Migration CouncilHost: Lauren Clarke & Hiba AnverProducer: Adam BelmarOn this episode of the Immigration Nerds Podcast we discuss the issue of climate migration. Host Lauren Clarke is joined by Erickson Immigration Group Partner Hiba Anver and featured guests Dan Restrepo and Erin Sikorsky from the Climate Migration Council. They discussed the expected displacement of over 200 million individuals worldwide by 2050 due to climate change, and the need for a human-centered approach to migration, focusing on protecting the rights of affected communities, and enabling safe, regular, and orderly migration pathways.SHOW RESOURCE LINKS:Climate Migration CouncilClimate Migration Explainer 4Ocean

On this episode of Immigration Nerd Podcast we discuss the US Green Card system backlog of 7.6 million individuals waiting for lawful permanent residency and a new report that predicts nearly $4 trillion in economic gains to the US economy over the next decade if the backlog was cleared. Bloomberg Law immigration reporter Andrew Kreighbaum joins host Lauren Clarke to discuss the financial and human cost of the backlog.GUEST: Andrew Kreighbaum, Immigration Reporter, Bloomberg LawHOST: Lauren ClarkePRODUCER: Adam BelmarSHOW RESOURCE LINKS:Bipartisan Policy Center Report: The Demographic Transition: An Overview of America's Aging Population and Immigration's Mediating Role (September 2023)American Community Survey Data – US Census Bureau Bloomberg: Green Card Backlog Costs Economy Trillions in Gains, Report Says

On this episode of Immigration Nerds we discuss the demographic crisis of the "graying of America" and the long-term economic challenges it poses to the United States. Host Lauren Clarks talks to Ben Gitis, Associate Director, Economy & Immigration, Bipartisan Policy Center, about their report highlighting the role of immigration in addressing this crisis. The report explains that the aging population and slowing population growth lead to a decline in labor force participation, which hampers economic growth. Immigration is seen as a vital tool to counteract these trends by welcoming workers who can fill open positions, contribute to productivity, and support programs like Social Security and Medicare. The report also mentions that other countries, such as Canada, have implemented aggressive immigration policies to address labor shortages, highlighting the urgency for the US to do the same.GUEST: Ben Gitis, Associate Director, Economy & Immigration, Bipartisan Policy CenterHOST: Lauren ClarkePRODUCER: Adam BelmarSHOW RESOURCE LINKS:Bipartisan Policy Center Report: The Demographic Transition: An Overview of America's Aging Population and Immigration's Mediating Role (September 2023)American Community Survey Data – US Census Bureau

Hit play for the very latest news and analysis on DACA, the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals Program. On Wednesday, September 13, 2023, a federal judge in Texas once again ruled that DACA is unlawful. What does this latest ruling mean for Dreamers right now? What is the Major QuestIons doctrine? And how might it impact the opinions of the US Supreme Court's nine Justices? Host Lauren Clarke is joined by Jeremy McKinney, the 2022-2023 President of the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) and current member of AILA's Executive Committee and Board of Governors, for a conversation full of analysis and context.SHOW RESOURCE LINKS:National Hispanic Heritage MonthHispanic Heritage Month Events at Smithsonian InstitutionLibrary of Congress Celebrates Hispanic Heritage MonthGUEST: Jeremy McKinney / 2022-2023 President of the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) and current member of AILA's Executive Committee and Board of GovernorsHOST: Lauren Clarke, Senior Attorney, Erickson Immigration GroupPRODUCER: Adam Belmar

Temporary protected status is back in the news. DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas has recently extended TPS for Ukraine, Sudan, and other countries. On this episode of the Immigration Nerds, host Lauren Clarke has details on all the TPS headlines plus a powerful interview with Nils Kinuani, a human rights advocate leading a campaign for TPS for Congolese immigrants, asylum seekers, and refugees. NEWS NERD: Rob TaylorHost: Lauren ClarkeProducer: Adam BelmarSHOW RESOURCE LINKS:OPINION: Temporary protected status could save Congolese lives, Special to the AFRO July 27, 2023, By Nils KinuaniUS extends temporary protected status for Ukraine, Sudan nationalsUSCIS: Temporary Protected Status

This August, Erickson Immigration Group hosted a very special Women in the Law event with Betsy Fisher, the U.S. Director of Talent Beyond Boundaries. Host Lauren Clarke and EIG partner Hiba Mona Anver share Hiba's previously recorded conversation with Betsy, as she shares insights from her career as a woman in the law, and highlights from her work with Talent Beyond Boundaries and their efforts to match refugees with U.S. employers in need of their skills and remove obstacles.SHOW RESOURCE LINKS:Talent Beyond Boundaries https://www.talentbeyondboundaries.org/GUEST: Betsy Fisher / U.S. Director, Talent Beyond BoundariesNEWS NERD: Rob TaylorHOST: Lauren ClarkeGUEST INTERVIEWER: Hiba AnverPRODUCER: Adam Belmar

We invite you to join us around the table to meet the immigrant chefs who celebrate their culture, share diverse cuisine, and nourish our communities. In our inaugural episode of this Immigration Nerds series, Food of Immigrants, host Lauren Clarke takes you to meet Chef Maziar Farivar and his brother Shahab Farivar, the owners of the Peacock Café in the Georgetown neighborhood of Washington D.C. For 25 years, these two brothers from Iran have successfully bridged cultures rich in history with menu items that honor tradition while infusing locally sourced ingredients.Nerds, hit play to dig into taste and culture and meet the culinary diplomats that strengthen the fabric of America.SHOW RESOURCE LINKS:Peacock Café | Established in 1991, Peacock Cafe is a tradition in Georgetown life. Chef Maziar Farivar has been featured at the prestigious James Beard Foundation Dinner and is amongst the chefs across the nation to be selected for the US State Department's American Culinary Corps. https://www.peacockcafe.com/American Culinary Corps | In partnership with the James Beard Foundation, the Department of State has curated the American Culinary Corps, a network of more than 80 of the United States' influential chefs and culinary professionals who participate in programs and events on behalf of the Department of State in the United States and abroad to foster cross-cultural exchange. https://www.state.gov/diplomatic-culinary-partnership/Chef Maziar Farivar at the White House | On March 11, 2015, First Lady Michelle Obama welcomed all to a celebration of the Persian New Year, Nowruz, at the White House. Chef Maziar did the cooking! https://youtu.be/ZOQj50TUUiw

Immigration can be a gamble. For some the winning ticket comes via the United States Diversity Visa Lottery. Join Immigration Nerds host, and Erickson Immigration Group senior attorney, Lauren Clarke for a fascinating conversation with the author of the book, Dreamland - America's Immigration Lottery in an Age of Restriction, Carly Beth Goodman, Ph.D.Show Links:Buy the book: DreamlandGuest: Carly Goodman, PhD, Author of Dreamland: America's Immigration Lottery in an Age of RestrictionNews Nerd: Rob Taylor, EIG PartnerHost: Lauren Clarke, EIG Senior AttorneyProducer: Adam Belmar

The Immigration Nerds is back with the details on Canada's aggressive new approach to attracting high skilled workers from right here in the United States. Immigration Nerds host and Erickson Immigration Group Senior Attorney Lauren Clarke talks to Justin Storch, Associate Attorney, International Practice, and Jesse Root, International Practice Project Manager, about Canada's big immigration announcements, and catches-up wth EIG partner Alejanda Zapatero on the latest immigration news worldwide.Hit play for the latest information and what it might mean for you or your employees. HOST: Lauren ClarkeNEWS NERD: Alejandra ZapateroGUESTS: Justin Storch, Associate Attorney, International Practice, and Jesse Root, International Practice Project ManagerPRODUCER: Adam Belmar

The summer travel season is here, and for foreign nationals, there are special considerations that must be taken in advance of any international travel. In this episode of the Immigration Nerds podcast, Erickson Immigration Group partner, Alejandra Zapatero joins host Lauren Clarke for a Nerds-worthy conversation about how to make sure your summer travel documents packing list is complete. HOST: Lauren ClarkeNEWS NERD: Alejandra ZapateroPRODUCER: Adam Belmar SHOW LINKS:Immigrant Heritage Month: June is Immigrant Heritage Month. As of 2022, June was designated National Immigrant Heritage Month, recognizing the countless contributions that immigrants have had on our country.https://www.iamanimmigrant.com/https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2023/05/31/a-proclamation-on-national-immigrant-heritage-month-2023/https://www.state.gov/celebrating-national-immigrant-heritage-month/https://www.pbsbooks.org/2023/06/13/immigrant-heritage-month/ MENTIONED IN THE SHOW:LinkedIn LIVE: Immigration Nerd Special Report: Compelling Circumstances EAD Wednesday, June 28th at 3:00 PM EThttps://www.linkedin.com/company/erickson-immigration-group

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security declared July 31, 2023, as the end date for COVID-related I-9 verification flexibilities. They have also mandated that all I-9s verified using those temporary flexibilities must now be reverified in-person by August 30, 2023. Hit play for a detailed explanation of everything I-9 and how employers and employees can ensure compliance. HOST: Lauren ClarkePRODUCER: Adam Belmar SHOW LINKS:PRIDE MONTH: Library of Congress Research Guides: LGBTQ+ Legal Resources: A Beginner's GuideI-9 RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THE SHOW:Acceptable documents: https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documentsFAQs regarding remote verification: https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-related-news/questions-and-answers-related-to-covid-19I-9 examples: https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-examples-related-to-temporary-covid-19-policies

The Australian government is expanding pathways to permanent residency through a new visa program for highly skilled foreign workers. Hit play to get details on changes in the occupation lists, how it impacts visa eligibility, and the new role for labor market testing. Erickson Immigration Group senior manager for Australia, Martin Russell, joins host Lauren Clarke from Melbourne.Show Links: C-SPAN Congress's ChutzpahGUEST: Martin Russell, EIG Senior Manager, AustraliaNEWS NERD: Rob TaylorHOST: Lauren ClarkePRODUCER: Adam Belmar

What does it mean to be a digital nomad in the year 2023? Is taking your job with you as you travel the world more than just a trend? Veteran digital nomad Josh Andrews joins the podcast from Medellin, Colombia, to help define terms and share perspectives on the lifestyle and its promise. Hit play to hear if digital nomading is right for you and what types of jobs travel best.GUEST: Josh Andrews, Digital Nomad & Director of People & Culture at Remote YearNEWS NERD: Rob TaylorHOST: Lauren ClarkePRODUCER: Adam Belmar Show links:May is Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month, and the Library of Congress, National Archives and Records Administration, National Endowment for the Humanities, National Gallery of Art, National Park Service, Smithsonian Institute, and the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum join in paying tribute to the generations of Asian and Pacific Islanders who have enriched America's history and are instrumental in its future success.Asianpacificheritage.govNational ArchivesThe Smithsonian Asian Pacific American CenterLibrary of Congress

In this latest episode of the Immigration Nerds podcast, we nerd out on the immigration policies of Canada, a nation whose population grew by over one million people for the first time ever last year and is expecting to welcome another 1.5 million permanent residents by the end of 2025. So who better to discuss Canadian immigration with than a Canadian immigrant? Our host Lauren Clare is joined by Ruairi Spillane, founder, and CEO of Moving2Canada and Outpost Recruitment.

In this week's episode of the Immigration Nerds podcast, we invite you to hit play for all the facts surrounding the hottest topics for H-1B visa holders right now: cap selection, grace periods, and domestic visa renewals. Host and EIG Senior Attorney Lauren Clarke is joined for a far-reaching discussion by Shev Dalal-Dheini, Director of Government Relations at the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA).Featured Guest: Shev Dalal-Dheini, Director of Government Relations, American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA)News Nerd: Rob Taylor, EIG PartnerHost: Lauren Clarke, EIG Senior Attorney, and Immigration Nerds host

In this week's Immigration Nerds podcast episode, host Lauren Clarke speaks with Alejandra Oliva, author of the new book, Rivermouth — A Chronicle of Language, Faith, and Migration. In Rivermouth, Oliva focuses on the physical spaces that make up different phases of immigration and looks at how language and opportunity move through each of them; from the river as the waterway that separates the US and Mexico to the table as the place over which Oliva prepares asylum seekers for their Credible Fear Interviews, and finally, to the wall as the behemoth imposition that runs along America's southernmost border.Featured Guest: Alejandra Oliva, Essayist, Embroiderer, and Author of RivermouthNews Nerd: Rob Taylor, EIG PartnerHost: Lauren Clarke, EIG Senior Attorney, and Immigration Nerds host

This week, the Immigration Nerds features a conversation between Lauren Clarke, senior attorney at Erickson Immigration Group, and EIG Senior Manager Martin Russell in Australia and Immigration Manager, Erdiana Kamarudin, in Singapore. The team explores how new workforce planning and hiring policies in the APAC region are creating opportunities for highly skilled migrants. Featured Guest: EIG Senior Manager, Martin Russell, in Australia; and Immigration Manager, Erdiana Kamarudin, in SingaporeNews Nerd: Rob Taylor, EIG PartnerHost: Lauren Clarke, EIG Senior Attorney and Immigration Nerds host

Immigration Nerds host Lauren Clarke, a senior attorney at Erickson Immigration Group, helps us understand the facts and context of the soon-expiring Title 42 policy created decades ago to address public health and social welfare but most recently used during the pandemic to regulate the border. Our guest, David J. Bier, Associate Director of Immigration Studies at the Cato Institute, joins us to talk about the border policies in place before Title 42, the programs that have been introduced since, and what we can expect still.Featured Guest: David J. Bier, Associate Director of Immigration Studies at the Cato InstituteNews Nerd: Rob Taylor, EIG PartnerHost: Lauren Clarke, EIG Senior Attorney and Immigration Nerds host

The podcast from the smartest nerds in the know on immigration is back! The Immigration Nerds Podcast has relaunched with show host Lauren Clarke—a senior attorney at Erickson Immigration Group, an immigrant, and the kind of nerd who makes the details easier to understand. Are you interested in the American response to the refugee crisis in Ukraine? Hear what's working and what's not in the U.S. State Department program designed to welcome Ukrainians fleeing Russia's invasion, Uniting for Ukraine. Lauren's guest is George Mason University Antonin Scalia Law School Law Professor Ilya Somin, a sponsor to a Ukrainian refugee family.Featured Guest: Ilya Somin, Professor of Law at George Mason University Antonin Scalia Law SchoolNews Nerd: Rob Taylor, EIG PartnerHost: Lauren Clarke, EIG Senior Attorney and Immigration Nerds host

This week's Immigration Nerds episode is a special one as we celebrate the growth of our podcast to become a must-listen in our industry and a top-rated immigration podcast. But how did we get here? In early 2018, Hiba Anver, now an EIG partner, and host/producer Ian Gaines, then an immigration paralegal, imagined a podcast that would shine a spotlight on all types of immigration and give a microphone to diverse storytellers. This week, Hiba and Ian reflect on the making of the podcast and the past four years of guests, issues, and the impact of this flagship podcast from Erickson Immigration Group. And, a note from our producer, Ian Gaines: "This is a journey that I'm personally proud to have embarked upon and watched grow. After this episode, I will pass the microphone of this podcast, that you have all come to enjoy and gain insight from over the years. Thank you all for your support over these past years; I am truly grateful."