Episodes

  • Improve The Dream... or Nightmare?
    Oct 28 2024

    Join us for an eye-opening conversation with Dip Patel, the visionary founder of Improve the Dream, as he unveils the untold story of America's "Documented Dreamers"—children who grew up legally in the United States but face deportation upon turning 21.

    Key Highlights:
    - Understand the paradox of Documented Dreamers: legally present since childhood yet aging out of status
    - Learn about the America's Children Act and its bipartisan support in Congress
    - Explore the challenges faced by Documented Dreamers
    - Discover Improve the Dream has set the gold standard in immigration advocacy
    - Find out how you can support over 200,000+ young immigrants fighting for their American dream

    Featured Guest: Dip Patel, a former documented Dreamer and founder of Improve The Dream, shares his personal journey from visa uncertainty to founding a movement that's changing the national conversation on immigration reform.

    Dive deep into the complex world of immigration as Dip reveals:
    - The emotional and psychological impact of living in visa limbo
    - Strategic approaches to building bipartisan support for immigration reform
    - How Improve the Dream mobilized a nationwide community of advocates
    - The power of social media in amplifying immigrant voices
    - The Country Caps Debate and whether it should be prioritized over America's Children Act
    - Practical steps for turning advocacy into meaningful legislative change

    Why This Matters: With over 200,000+ Documented Dreamers at risk of deportation, this episode highlights a critical yet overlooked aspect of America's immigration system. Learn how these young immigrants are fighting to preserve their American dreams while advocating for systematic reform.

    Support Improve the Dream: improvethedream.org

    Connect With Us
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    If you want to say hi or have an idea for a podcast episode, this is an easy way for you to reach out. We’ll be more than happy to hear from you!

    If you enjoyed the episode, don't forget to show us some love by giving us a rating and writing a review!







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    1 hr and 1 min
  • Unshackling Soundarya
    Sep 5 2024

    Soundarya Balasubramani arrived in the United States like many others, armed with ambition and a visa. But that's where the similarities end. Rather than following the well trodden path of climbing the corporate ladder, she's carved out a very unique trajectory that defies expectations. From excelling as a Product Manager at tech giant Salesforce, to becoming a published author of two influential books on immigration and finally to founding her own startup, Unshackled, Soundarya has constantly pushed boundaries.

    In this very revealing episode, we peel back the layers of Soundarya Balasubramani's public persona and take a look at the unseen chapters of her life. Tune in to hear a very personal journey behind her success where we talk about loneliness, family, mentorship, her next book '1000 Days of Love' and the recent merger of Unshackled with Greencard Inc and many more.

    This episode goes beyond immigration advice. It offers a rare glimpse into the emotional and intellectual landscape of someone who's turned her challenges into a mission to help others. Join us for a conversation that's as inspiring as it is intimate, revealing the true heart behind the Unshackled movement.

    If you want to say hi or have an idea for a podcast episode, this is an easy way for you to reach out. We’ll be more than happy to hear from you!

    If you enjoyed the episode, don't forget to show us some love by giving us a rating and writing a review!







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    1 hr
  • O Canada, Can You Let Me Work?
    Jun 19 2024

    One of the biggest impediments in moving to Canada is the stress of finding a new job. What if you could have the best of both worlds? What if you could work for your US employer and still enjoy the immigration freedom Canada has to offer? Sounds too good to be true right? Apparently not.

    In today's episode, we are joined by Marc Pavlopoulos, the founder of Syndesus. Being a former Silicon Valley entrepreneur, Marc has seen first hand the negative impact that the H-1B lottery system has on the STEM talent in the country. Companies scramble to find alternative options when their employees have been unsuccessful in their 3rd and final attempt at the lottery for the coveted work visa. Having the unique advantage of understanding the Canadian Immigration system, he immediately saw a solution that would help companies retain their talent and as a result Syndesus was born. By partnering with the employee's existing employer, Syndesus is able to relocate the employee to Canada on a work permit becoming the link between the employee and their existing employer.

    Tune in to hear about Marc's early days in Silicon Valley and his passion for leveraging tech to solve problems. You'll walk away understanding how Syndesus works and how this is a great option to pursue if you're considering a transition to Canada. At the end of the episode Marc has a discount for all Area 51 podcast listeners. If you ever choose to work with Syndesus in the future, this is definitely something to take advantage of!

    If you want to say hi or have an idea for a podcast episode, this is an easy way for you to reach out. We’ll be more than happy to hear from you!

    If you enjoyed the episode, don't forget to show us some love by giving us a rating and writing a review!







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    51 mins
  • O Canada, Can You Let Me In?
    May 31 2024

    Often considered a consolation prize for those facing immigration issues, Canada has always been a topic of discussion for visa holders in America. In today's episode, we are joined by Sindhu Mahadevan to better understand the Canadian immigration landscape. Creator of the immigration newsletter 'This Immigrant Life', Sindhu is a 'US dropout' who has lived in both US & Canada. Due to this first hand experience, Sindhu has a unique perspective on the immigration systems in both the countries.

    Join us as we delve into the intricacies of the Canadian immigration system and how they differ from their US counterparts. Whether you're considering a move to Canada or just curious about the process, this episode will provide you with valuable information and practical advice. Discover if Canada might be the ideal place for your new start or if it's better for you to continue living in America.

    If you want to say hi or have an idea for a podcast episode, this is an easy way for you to reach out. We’ll be more than happy to hear from you!

    If you enjoyed the episode, don't forget to show us some love by giving us a rating and writing a review!







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    1 hr and 3 mins
  • The Brooklyn Curry Project
    May 3 2024

    As an Indian immigrant in America, one thing we all miss is the food back home. We've felt it and we're sure all of you have as well. Have we done anything about it? Probably not!

    In today's episode, we are joined by the founders of the Brooklyn Curry Project, Swetha and Venkat , two immigrants from Bangalore, India, whose shared love for traditional Indian cuisine sparked a business that has taken the New York food scene by storm. In this episode, we dive into their story, exploring how a lemonade stand transitioned to a South Indian food stall , turning their passion for food into a successful venture. From supporting Indian farmers to building a strong community of dosa lovers, Brooklyn Curry Project has done it all.

    Tune in to hear about the Brooklyn Curry Project's rise to fame, their awesome community and what the future holds for this dynamic couple. It's an episode filled with heart, flavor, and inspiration you won't want to miss!

    If you want to say hi or have an idea for a podcast episode, this is an easy way for you to reach out. We’ll be more than happy to hear from you!

    If you enjoyed the episode, don't forget to show us some love by giving us a rating and writing a review!







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    51 mins
  • No Suits
    Apr 9 2024

    In today's episode, we are joined by John Moye, one of the founders of Pro Se Pro to talk about their game changing tool in the fight against immigration delays. Developed by attorney Brad Banias and technologists John Moye and Andrew Steinmeyer, Pro Se Pro is a revolutionary tool that provides immigrants with the knowledge, resources, and support they need to file lawsuits against the government for unreasonable processing times. Through Pro se Pro, immigrants can assert their rights and demand accountability from immigration authorities, paving the way for a more transparent and efficient system.

    Tune in as John explains the reason behind starting Pro Se Pro and walks us through the different services they offer and their goal of empowering immigrants through their tool. At the end of the episode, John has a giveaway for all the listeners. If you'd like to avail their services, use the code AREA51 to take advantage of the discount they are offering the Area 51 podcast listeners!

    If you want to say hi or have an idea for a podcast episode, this is an easy way for you to reach out. We’ll be more than happy to hear from you!

    If you enjoyed the episode, don't forget to show us some love by giving us a rating and writing a review!







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    1 hr and 12 mins
  • Dandi March: The Backlog Edition
    Mar 2 2024

    The immigration backlog is something that has deeply impacted every Indian immigrant’s life in America. We have all complained about it numerous times and have pretty much given up hope for any change. That’s what makes Anuj different. In today’s episode we sit down with Anuj Christian, the dynamic force behind a nationwide campaign for immigration reform. Anuj shares his remarkable story of traversing all 50 states of America in his peaceful advocacy for Immigration reform. From grassroot initiatives to community mobilization, Anuj’s tireless efforts are driving real change, one state at a time. Tune in as we explore Anuj’s incredible journey and his fight for social justice.

    If you want to say hi or have an idea for a podcast episode, this is an easy way for you to reach out. We’ll be more than happy to hear from you!

    If you enjoyed the episode, don't forget to show us some love by giving us a rating and writing a review!







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    48 mins
  • With Love, Atal
    Feb 27 2024

    IIT Alumnus. Ironman. Immigration Activist. Startup Founder. In today's episode we are joined by Atal Agarwal who has been wearing each of these hats with ease. Atal is an inspirational figure whose journey embodies resilience, innovation, and a commitment to creating positive change. Join us as we we unravel the inspiring journey of Atal Agarwal, a visionary entrepreneur, immigration advocate and trailblazer, who continues to inspire others with his unwavering commitment to making a difference.

    If you want to say hi or have an idea for a podcast episode, this is an easy way for you to reach out. We’ll be more than happy to hear from you!

    If you enjoyed the episode, don't forget to show us some love by giving us a rating and writing a review!







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    1 hr and 12 mins