Tahmina Talks Immigration: Recent Episodes

Tahmina Watson

Tahmina Talks Immigration is a talk show all about US immigration laws hosted by Tahmina Watson- Founder@WatsonImmigrationLaw, passionate #immigrationlawyer, #immigrationreform advocate 4 #entrepreneurs, author, blogger, radio show host, speaker mother&wife

View Details

Allison Sillberberg

Allison Sillberberg joins Tahmina on this episode to discuss Allison's experience as the Mayor of Alexandria, Virginia and the intersection between local governance and immigration.

A Public Affairs and Public Policy consultant and writer, Allison Silberberg served as the Mayor of Alexandria, Virginia, from 2016 to 2019. She served as Vice Mayor from 2013 to 2016. In 2023, Allison served as a consultant for Strong Cities Network, which commissioned her on “A Guide for Mayors: Preventing and Responding to Hate, Extremism & Polarisation” to help mayors shore up democratic institutions and civil society in their communities.

Check out Allison’s Plain Talk (on Substack) and learn more about her career here.

Tahmina Talks Immigration and The Startup Visa podcast series are produced and edited by Tamanna Jahan.

Special thanks to our series sponsor, Pinnacle Plan Writing for making these episodes possible. You can visit their website at https://www.pinnacleplanwriting.com/

Check out Tahmina’s books at www.tahminawatson.com and our startup visa series which is intended to be your toolbox for the success of your immigration journey.

And if the world is feeling heavy right now, cultivate joy in your life with Tahmina’s journal Finding Joy series. Here’s a link to her best selling new coloring book: Color Your Joy: Birds and Wildlife Coloring Book: Watson, Tahmina, Jahan, Tamanna, Watson, Sofia, Watson, Sarina: 9798988507239: Amazon.com: Books

Be sure to follow us on our website www.watsonimmigrationlaw.com and Tahmina’s author page on Amazon Amazon Author page and her author website www.tahminawatson.com.

Sign to our blog- and connect with us on on social media:LinkedIn - Watson Immigration Law and Tahmina WatsonTwitter - @TahminaTalksInstagram - @TahminaTalksFacebook - Watson Immigration Law

View Details

In this episode Tahmina is joined by Ruchika Malhotra

Tahmina Talks Immigration and The Startup Visa podcast series are produced and edited by Tamanna Jahan.

Special thanks to our series sponsor, Pinnacle Plan Writing for making these episodes possible. You can visit their website at https://www.pinnacleplanwriting.com/

Check out Tahmina’s books at www.tahminawatson.com and our startup visa series which is intended to be your toolbox for the success of your immigration journey.

And if the world is feeling heavy right now, cultivate joy in your life with Tahmina’s journal Finding Joy series. Here’s a link to her best selling new coloring book: Color Your Joy: Birds and Wildlife Coloring Book: Watson, Tahmina, Jahan, Tamanna, Watson, Sofia, Watson, Sarina: 9798988507239: Amazon.com: Books

Be sure to follow us on our website www.watsonimmigrationlaw.com and Tahmina’s author page on Amazon Amazon Author page and her author website www.tahminawatson.com.

Sign to our blog- and connect with us on on social media:LinkedIn - Watson Immigration Law and Tahmina WatsonTwitter - @TahminaTalksInstagram - @TahminaTalksFacebook - Watson Immigration Law

View Details

In this episode, Damali Peterman shares vital tips and tricks for running a robust business. Tahmina and Damali speak about utilizing entrepreneurial “superpowers” and their start-up journeys.

Damali Peterman is a trailblazing conflict resolution expert, award-winning bestselling author, and CEO of BreakthroughADR, a global firm transforming how individuals and organizations navigate conflict and achieve workplace harmony. With over 20 years of experience as a lawyer, mediator, and educator, Damali is also a distinguished mediator, arbitrator, and ombudsman with JAMS, the largest private provider of alternative dispute resolution services in the world. Her expertise in negotiation and conflict resolution has made her a sought-after authority across industries.

Damali is the author of the award-winning and bestselling book Negotiating While Black: Be Who You Are to Get What You Want, published by Penguin Random House in North America and Bonnier Books internationally. Learn more about Damali here.

Tahmina Talks Immigration and The Startup Visa podcast series are produced and edited by Tamanna Jahan.

Special thanks to our series sponsor, Pinnacle Plan Writing for making these episodes possible. You can visit their website at https://www.pinnacleplanwriting.com/

Check out Tahmina’s books at www.tahminawatson.com and our startup visa series which is intended to be your toolbox for the success of your immigration journey.

And if the world is feeling heavy right now, cultivate joy in your life with Tahmina’s journal Finding Joy series. Here’s a link to her best selling new coloring book: Color Your Joy: Birds and Wildlife Coloring Book: Watson, Tahmina, Jahan, Tamanna, Watson, Sofia, Watson, Sarina: 9798988507239: Amazon.com: Books

Be sure to follow us on our website www.watsonimmigrationlaw.com and Tahmina’s author page on Amazon Amazon Author page and her author website www.tahminawatson.com.

Sign to our blog- and connect with us on on social media:LinkedIn - Watson Immigration Law and Tahmina WatsonTwitter - @TahminaTalksInstagram - @TahminaTalksFacebook - Watson Immigration Law

View Details

  • Note- this event was held earlier in the year of 2025. We published the episode in December 2025. The policies were updated by USCIS in October 2025- with a new set of civics questions and adjudication standards. The application process and forms remain the same so the episode remains timely and relevant. Just ensure you check updated policies on the USCIS website.

Given the challenges of 2025, it's imperative that US legal permanent residents (LPR) should consider applying for the US. LPRs, also referred to as green card holders, have faced heighten scrutiny and even been detained.

For that reason, to empower our community, Tahmina held a free webinar on zoom to guide people on how to apply for citizenship. We decided to release the recording in the hopes that more people can be empowered through our listeners.

Here is a recording of the webinar to help others.

Here is the link to the form Application for Naturalization | USCIS

Should you wish to schedule a consultation, email info@watsonimmigrationlaw.com

Tahmina Talks Immigration and The Startup Visa podcast series are produced and edited by Tamanna Jahan.

Check out Tahmina’s books at www.tahminawatson.com and our startup visa series which is intended to be your toolbox for the success of your immigration journey.

Here is a link to her bestselling visa guide book: The Startup Visa: U.S. Immigration Visa Guide for Startups and Founders: Watson, Tahmina, Doughty, Caroline, Buhain, Venice, Vos, Troy: 9781735758572: Amazon.com: Books

Here is her policy book: The Startup Visa: Key to Job Growth & Economic Prosperity in America: Watson, Tahmina, Turnbull, Lornet, Feld, Brad: 9781735758534: Amazon.com: Books

And if the world is feeling heavy right now, cultivate joy in your life with Tahmina’s journal Finding Joy Finding Joy: A Journal to Discover What Lights You Up: Watson, Tahmina: 9798988507222: Amazon.com: Books

Be sure to follow us on our website www.watsonimmigrationlaw.com and Tahmina’s author page on Amazon Amazon Author page and her author website www.tahminawatson.com.

S

View Details

Efren Hernandez, a life long USCIS policy leader, now working in the private sector sits down with Tahmina to discuss the shocking $100,000 fee imposed on H-1B visas.

Efren Hernandez is the Founder of EH3 Immigration Consulting. He is an immigration lawyer with 32 years of experience in the field, the vast majority at the former INS and at USCIS. While he has seen and done just about everything in the immigration realm, for the last 24 years he has focused on business/employment-based immigration. He has held leadership roles at USCIS and the legacy INS, and has been involved in the creation of many major policies in the employment-based realm. He is retired from USCIS and now uses his deep institutional, legal, and policy knowledge to offer high-level strategic consulting on complex immigration questions.

You can learn more about Efren on LinkedIn at Efren Hernandez III | LinkedIn

Tahmina Talks Immigration and The Startup Visa podcast series are produced and edited by Tamanna Jahan.

Check out Tahmina’s books at www.tahminawatson.com and our startup visa series which is intended to be your toolbox for the success of your immigration journey.

And if the world is feeling heavy right now, cultivate joy in your life with Tahmina’s journal Finding Joy series. Here’s a link to her best selling new coloring book: Color Your Joy: Birds and Wildlife Coloring Book: Watson, Tahmina, Jahan, Tamanna, Watson, Sofia, Watson, Sarina: 9798988507239: Amazon.com: Books

Be sure to follow us on our website www.watsonimmigrationlaw.com and Tahmina’s author page on Amazon Amazon Author page and her author website www.tahminawatson.com.

Sign to our blog- and connect with us on on social media:LinkedIn - Watson Immigration Law and Tahmina WatsonTwitter - @TahminaTalksInstagram - @TahminaTalksFacebook - Watson Immigration Law

View Details

Senator Vandana Slatter helped pass state funding for a Washington State immigrant entrepreneur program, one of a handful in the entire country. Tahmina sits down to speak with her.

Senator Vandana Slatter (D–WA 48th District) is a pharmacist, biotech professional, and trailblazing lawmaker who brings science, compassion, and equity to public service. Currently Vice Chair of the Senate Environment, Energy & Technology Committee, she also serves on the Health and Higher Education committees. A former Bellevue City Councilmember and four-term State House Representative, Vandana was the first Indian-American elected to the Washington State House. Her work has championed climate policy, healthcare privacy, education access, and innovation. A naturalized citizen, community leader, and public school parent, Vandana’s journey from pharmacy to policy is grounded in service, representation, and creating opportunity for all.

You can learn more about Senator Slatter at Vandana Slatter for State Senate | Meet Vandana

Tahmina Talks Immigration and The Startup Visa podcast series are produced and edited by Tamanna Jahan.

Check out Tahmina’s books at www.tahminawatson.com and our startup visa series which is intended to be your toolbox for the success of your immigration journey.

And if the world is feeling heavy right now, cultivate joy in your life with Tahmina’s journal Finding Joy series. Here’s a link to her best selling new coloring book: Color Your Joy: Birds and Wildlife Coloring Book: Watson, Tahmina, Jahan, Tamanna, Watson, Sofia, Watson, Sarina: 9798988507239: Amazon.com: Books

Be sure to follow us on our website www.watsonimmigrationlaw.com and Tahmina’s author page on Amazon Amazon Author page and her author website www.tahminawatson.com.

Sign to our blog- and connect with us on on social media:LinkedIn - Watson Immigration Law and Tahmina WatsonTwitter - @TahminaTalksInstagram - @TahminaTalksFacebook - Watson Immigration Law

View Details

Given the various challenges in the United States, many U.S. residents are seeking information on how to immigrate to Canada. Tahmina speaks with David Kika, an immigration expert practicing Canadian immigration law.

David Kika is a seasoned business immigration professional based in North Vancouver, BC, with deep expertise in Canadian and international immigration pathways. He supports clients with LMIA applications, work permits (including NAFTA/CUSMA, CPTPP, and CETA), and both provincial and federal permanent residence programs such as BC PNP, Express Entry, and others across Canada. David also handles family sponsorships and a range of other immigration applications. Prior to his Canadian practice, he worked in the Czech Republic assisting Japanese automotive executives with European work permits and corporate matters. David brings a global perspective and practical experience to every client he serves.

You can contact David at David Kika Immigration Consulting | BBB Business Profile | Better Business Bureau and find him on LinkedIn at David Kika | LinkedIn

Tahmina Talks Immigration and The Startup Visa podcast series are produced and edited by Tamanna Jahan.

Check out Tahmina’s books at www.tahminawatson.com and our startup visa series which is intended to be your toolbox for the success of your immigration journey.

And if the world is feeling heavy right now, cultivate joy in your life with Tahmina’s journal Finding Joy series. Here’s a link to her best selling new coloring book: Color Your Joy: Birds and Wildlife Coloring Book: Watson, Tahmina, Jahan, Tamanna, Watson, Sofia, Watson, Sarina: 9798988507239: Amazon.com: Books

Be sure to follow us on our website www.watsonimmigrationlaw.com and Tahmina’s author page on Amazon Amazon Author page and her author website www.tahminawatson.com.

Sign to our blog- and connect with us on on social media:LinkedIn - Watson Immigration Law and Tahmina WatsonTwitter - @TahminaTalksInstagram - @TahminaTalksFacebook - Watson Immigration Law

View Details

This is an episode shared from The Startup Visa podcast that will be useful for our listeners.

In this episode, our guest is Chris Bloomquist. He is a 20-year veteran of the technology industry, a 2-time startup founder, and expanding into the climate and environmental recruiting industries. He has a passion to tell the stories of impactful environmental organizations, leveraging his executive level recruitment expertise to put inspiring people to work, and believes that equitable hiring and employment should be a basic human right. He also serve as the Vice Chairman of the KD Hall Foundation as a male ally, serving minority girls and women in their education and employment growth. He is a father, husband, adult Lego enthusiast, ultimate frisbee and cross country coach and enjoys a good Star Wars movie as much as a tasty food documentary.

Links to connect with Chris:

About Us | The Talent Mine

(2) Chris Bloomquist | LinkedIn

Tahmina Talks Immigration and The Startup Visa podcast series are produced and edited by Tamanna Jahan.

Check out Tahmina’s books at www.tahminawatson.com and our startup visa series which is intended to be your toolbox for the success of your immigration journey.

Here is a link to her bestselling visa guide book: The Startup Visa: U.S. Immigration Visa Guide for Startups and Founders: Watson, Tahmina, Doughty, Caroline, Buhain, Venice, Vos, Troy: 9781735758572: Amazon.com: Books

Here is her policy book: The Startup Visa: Key to Job Growth & Economic Prosperity in America: Watson, Tahmina, Turnbull, Lornet, Feld, Brad: 9781735758534: Amazon.com: Books

And if the world is feeling heavy right now, cultivate joy in your life with Tahmina’s journal Finding Joy Finding Joy on Amazon.

Sign to our blog- and connect with us on social media:LinkedIn - Watson Immigration Law and Tahmina WatsonTwitter - @TahminaTalksInstagram - @TahminaTalksFacebook - Watson Immigration Law

View Details

In this episode, Jordan Lawrence is the EB5AN Director of Business Development. In this role, he structures EB-5 project offerings and develops new strategic relationships. Jordan most recently served as the Director of Operations at Houston EB5. He has over five years of experience in the real estate finance and development industries, online marketing, and international business development. You can learn more about him at https://eb5affiliatenetwork.com/

Tahmina Talks Immigration and The Startup Visa podcast series are produced and edited by Tamanna Jahan.

Check out Tahmina’s books at www.tahminawatson.com and our startup visa series which is intended to be your toolbox for the success of your immigration journey.

Here is a link to her bestselling visa guide book: The Startup Visa: U.S. Immigration Visa Guide for Startups and Founders: Watson, Tahmina, Doughty, Caroline, Buhain, Venice, Vos, Troy: 9781735758572: Amazon.com: Books

Here is her policy book: The Startup Visa: Key to Job Growth & Economic Prosperity in America: Watson, Tahmina, Turnbull, Lornet, Feld, Brad: 9781735758534: Amazon.com: Books

Be sure to follow us on our website www.watsonimmigrationlaw.com and Tahmina’s author page on Amazon Amazon Author page and her author website www.tahminawatson.com.

Sign to our blog- and connect with us on on social media:LinkedIn - Watson Immigration Law and Tahmina WatsonTwitter - @TahminaTalksInstagram - @TahminaTalksFacebook - Watson Immigration Law

View Details

In this episode of Tahmina Talks Immigration, I speak with Clive Stafford Smith- British American Human Rights Lawyer who is an expert on Guantanamo Bay detained cases having represented over 80 detainees held at the Guantanamo Bay detention camp.

He specialises in the areas of civil rights and working against the death penalty in the United States of America. He worked to overturn death sentences for convicts, and helped found the not-for-profit Louisiana Capital Assistance Center in New Orleans. By 2002 this was the "largest capital defence organisation in the South. He was a founding board member of the Gulf Region Advocacy Center, based in Houston, Texas. He currently works as the founder of Justice League in the UK.

He can be reached at clive@justiceleague.org.uk

Tahmina Talks Immigration podcast series is produced and edited by Tamanna Jahan.

Check out Tahmina’s books at www.tahminawatson.com and our startup visa series which is intended to be your toolbox for the success of your immigration journey.

Here is a link to her bestselling visa guide book: The Startup Visa: U.S. Immigration Visa Guide for Startups and Founders: Watson, Tahmina, Doughty, Caroline, Buhain, Venice, Vos, Troy: 9781735758572: Amazon.com: Books

Here is her policy book: The Startup Visa: Key to Job Growth & Economic Prosperity in America: Watson, Tahmina, Turnbull, Lornet, Feld, Brad: 9781735758534: Amazon.com: Books

Be sure to follow us on our website www.watsonimmigrationlaw.com and Tahmina’s author page on Amazon Amazon Author page and her author website www.tahminawatson.com.

Sign to our blog- and connect with us on on social media:LinkedIn - Watson Immigration Law and Tahmina WatsonTwitter - @TahminaTalksInstagram - @TahminaTalksFacebook - Watson Immigration Law

View Details

Amanda DuBois is the founder and managing partner of DuBois Levias Law Group, a woman-owned boutique family law firm in Seattle. Before practicing law, she was a high-risk labor and delivery nurse at the University of Washington Medical Center, a background that informs her legal work and fuels her passion for social justice. Over the past thirty years, DuBois has represented thousands of clients in divorce and medical malpractice cases, argued hundreds of motions, and taken multiple cases to trial. She is also the creator of the Camille Delaney mystery series, drawing on her dual expertise in medicine and law to spotlight inequities and injustices within both systems.
Her first two titles, The Complication and Deliver Them From Evil, received numerous awards, including the 2023 International Book Award for Mystery/Suspense. In addition, DuBois is the founder of the Civil Survival Project, which helps formerly incarcerated individuals reintegrate. She also established the Full Circle Scholarship at Seattle University School of Law and currently serves on the boards of Purpose Dignity Action and Freedom Education Project Puget Sound. She received the Sally P. Savage Leadership in Philanthropy Award from Washington State Bar Association. Her latest work, Unshackled, releases in February 2025. You can get your copy here - Amanda DuBois – Attorney, Activist, Author

View Details

Thank you so much for tuning into Tahmina Talks Immigration, with your host, Tahmina Watson. In this episode, I am honored to speak with Melanie Gladstone, director of Lakewood Playhouse's performance of The Diary of Anne Frank, and Nicole Lockett, cast member playing Edith Frank. The show runs April 15th to May 8th on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and select Thursdays at the Lakewood Playhouse in Lakewood, Washington. Tickets are available for order HERE.

Melanie and Nicole discuss the relevance of their run of The Diary of Anne Frank especially given current global crises going on that deal with the persecution of select groups. They talk about the importance of remembering the past as well as seeing ways that historical patterns repeat themselves in the world around us so we can do our best to take action during these dire global issues.

Check out our immigration legal services for those in the startup ecosystem by visiting us at watsonimmigrationlaw.com. It is our pleasure to serve international entrepreneurs, founders, business owners, and top global talent.

Tahmina Talks Immigration is produced and edited by Cambria Judd Babbitt; music by Tokyo Music Walker titled “Way Home”; and collaboration with TJ Productions.

Be sure to follow me on my Amazon Author page, my author website www.tahminawatson.com as well as my usual blog at www.watsonimmigrationlaw.com.

Find us on social media:

LinkedIn - Watson Immigration Law and Tahmina Watson
Twitter - @TahminaTalks
Instagram - @TahminaTalks
Facebook - Watson Immigration Law

Find us at watsonimmigrationlaw.com

View Details

Thank you for tuning in to The Startup Visa Podcast. In this episode, I am honored to speak with Sridhar Katta, CEO and Founder of TruVs.com. TruVs Inc, is a modern business and technology consulting company. They help their customers modernize their business operations using world class business processes and cutting edge technologies. Hear Sridhar share about his immigrant entrepreneur experience and why he believes we need a #startupvisa!

The Startup Visa Podcast is a podcast on US immigration for startups, investors, and entrepreneurs. This podcast coincides with the launch of the 2nd Edition of my book, The Startup Visa which is now available for order here!

The inaugural season is sponsored by Masterplans. With more than 20 years’ experience and over 18,000 business plans under their belt, they deliver best-in-class research, financial modeling, and strategic direction--allowing you to do what you do best. Check out Masterplans at masterplans.com or call their team at 877-453-2011.

Check out our immigration legal services for those in the startup ecosystem by visiting us at watsonimmigrationlaw.com. It is our pleasure to serve international entrepreneurs, founders, business owners, and top global talent.

The inaugural season of the Startup Visa podcast is produced and edited by Cambria Judd Babbitt; music by Gvidon titled “Success Starts With a Dream”, and Tokyo Music Walker titled “Way Home”; and collaboration with TJ Productions.

Be sure to follow me on my Amazon Author page, my author website www.tahminawatson.com as well as my usual blog at www.watsonimmigrationlaw.com.

Find us on social media:

LinkedIn - Watson Immigration Law and Tahmina Watson
Twitter - @TahminaTalks
Instagram - @TahminaTalks
Facebook - Watson Immigration Law

Find us at watsonimmigrationlaw.com

View Details

Thank you for tuning in to The Startup Visa Podcast. In this episode, I am honored to speak with Marko Issever, CEO and Founder of America EB5 Visa. America EB-5 Visa aims to connect international investors aiming to immigrate to the United States while making a meaningful financial contribution in the form of an investment, typically on a real estate project with seekers of these investments.

The Startup Visa Podcast is a podcast on US immigration for startups, investors, and entrepreneurs. This podcast coincides with the launch of the 2nd Edition of my book, The Startup Visa which is now available for order here!

The inaugural season is sponsored by Masterplans. With more than 20 years’ experience and over 18,000 business plans under their belt, they deliver best-in-class research, financial modeling, and strategic direction--allowing you to do what you do best. Check out Masterplans at masterplans.com or call their team at 877-453-2011.

Check out our immigration legal services for those in the startup ecosystem by visiting us at watsonimmigrationlaw.com. It is our pleasure to serve international entrepreneurs, founders, business owners, and top global talent.

The inaugural season of the Startup Visa podcast is produced and edited by Cambria Judd Babbitt; music by Gvidon titled “Success Starts With a Dream”, and Tokyo Music Walker titled “Way Home”; and collaboration with TJ Productions.

Be sure to follow me on my Amazon Author page, my author website www.tahminawatson.com as well as my usual blog at www.watsonimmigrationlaw.com.

Find us on social media:

LinkedIn - Watson Immigration Law and Tahmina Watson
Twitter - @TahminaTalks
Instagram - @TahminaTalks
Facebook - Watson Immigration Law

View Details

Thank you for tuning in to The Startup Visa Podcast. In this episode, I am honored to speak with Gavin Johnson, Attorney at Immix Law. As both an entrepreneur and business attorney with an active presence within the Washington State startup scene, Gavin assists clients from early concept stage to clients navigating complex mergers and acquisitions. With his legal and business experience, Gavin focuses on protecting and empowering his clients across an array of industries.

The Startup Visa Podcast is a podcast on US immigration for startups, investors, and entrepreneurs. This podcast coincides with the launch of the 2nd Edition of my book, The Startup Visa which is now available for order here!

The inaugural season is sponsored by Masterplans. With more than 20 years’ experience and over 18,000 business plans under their belt, they deliver best-in-class research, financial modeling, and strategic direction--allowing you to do what you do best. Check out Masterplans at masterplans.com or call their team at 877-453-2011.

Check out our immigration legal services for those in the startup ecosystem by visiting us at watsonimmigrationlaw.com. It is our pleasure to serve international entrepreneurs, founders, business owners, and top global talent.

The inaugural season of the Startup Visa podcast is produced and edited by Cambria Judd Babbitt; music by Gvidon titled “Success Starts With a Dream”, and Tokyo Music Walker titled “Way Home”; and collaboration with TJ Productions.

Be sure to follow me on my Amazon Author page, my author website www.tahminawatson.com as well as my usual blog at www.watsonimmigrationlaw.com.

Find us on social media:

LinkedIn - Watson Immigration Law and Tahmina Watson
Twitter - @TahminaTalks
Instagram - @TahminaTalks
Facebook - Watson Immigration Law

Find us at watsonimmigrationlaw.com

View Details

Thank you for tuning in to The Startup Visa Podcast (all episodes linked here). In this episode, I am honored to speak with Jeremy L. Neufeld, Senior Immigration Fellow at Institute for Progress. Previously, he was an immigration policy analyst at the Niskanen Center. His work has been cited in numerous outlets including the Washington Post, the Wall Street Journal, Bloomberg, and MSNBC. He graduated with a B.S. in economics from the University of Maryland, College Park and is currently an economics Ph.D. student at George Mason University.

The Startup Visa Podcast is a podcast on US immigration for startups, investors, and entrepreneurs. This podcast coincides with the launch of the 2nd Edition of my book, The Startup Visa which is now available for order here!

The inaugural season is sponsored by Masterplans. With more than 20 years’ experience and over 18,000 business plans under their belt, they deliver best-in-class research, financial modeling, and strategic direction--allowing you to do what you do best. Check out Masterplans at masterplans.com or call their team at 877-453-2011.

Check out our immigration legal services for those in the startup ecosystem by visiting us at watsonimmigrationlaw.com. It is our pleasure to serve international entrepreneurs, founders, business owners, and top global talent.

The inaugural season of the Startup Visa podcast is produced and edited by Cambria Judd Babbitt; music by Gvidon titled “Success Starts With a Dream”, and Tokyo Music Walker titled “Way Home”; and collaboration with TJ Productions.

Be sure to follow me on my Amazon Author page, my author website www.tahminawatson.com as well as my usual blog at www.watsonimmigrationlaw.com.

Find us on social media:

LinkedIn - Watson Immigration Law and Tahmina Watson
Twitter - @TahminaTalks
Instagram - @TahminaTalks
Facebook - Watson Immigration Law

View Details

Thank you for tuning in to The Startup Visa Podcast (all episodes linked here). In this episode, I am honored to speak with William Dean, VP of Immigration at Masterplans. William has frequently been a featured panelist at the EB-5 Investors Conference, having spoken on direct investment, business visa options, and franchising. He is also a contributing author to the magazine, writing about job calculations for EB-5 petitioners and the hurdles of the L-1 visa platform.

The Startup Visa Podcast is a podcast on US immigration for startups, investors, and entrepreneurs. This podcast coincides with the launch of the 2nd Edition of my book, The Startup Visa which is now available for order here!

The inaugural season is sponsored by Masterplans. With more than 20 years’ experience and over 18,000 business plans under their belt, they deliver best-in-class research, financial modeling, and strategic direction--allowing you to do what you do best. Check out Masterplans at masterplans.com or call their team at 877-453-2011.

Check out our immigration legal services for those in the startup ecosystem by visiting us at watsonimmigrationlaw.com. It is our pleasure to serve international entrepreneurs, founders, business owners, and top global talent.

The inaugural season of the Startup Visa podcast is produced and edited by Cambria Judd Babbitt; music by Gvidon titled “Success Starts With a Dream”, and Tokyo Music Walker titled “Way Home”; and collaboration with TJ Productions.

Be sure to follow me on my Amazon Author page, my author website www.tahminawatson.com as well as my usual blog at www.watsonimmigrationlaw.com.

Find us on social media:

LinkedIn - Watson Immigration Law and Tahmina Watson
Twitter - @TahminaTalks
Instagram - @TahminaTalks
Facebook - Watson Immigration Law

Find us at watsonimmigrationlaw.com

View Details

Thank you for tuning in to Tahmina Talks Immigration. In this episode, I am honored to speak with Shashi Vijay, Principal Attorney at VJ Law Firm, and friends Ravi Bulusu and Venkatram Reddy Ravi. Shashi founded VJ Law Firm in Fall 2010 with a simple vision: Provide fast, affordable legal services to individuals, families and small-businesses in the Seattle Eastside. She is also the founding member of Washington State Bar Assoication's Low Bono section and offer probono services to local non-profits through Wayfind, and serve the needs of low-income clients by vounteering at various Eastside neighborhood clinics. She also assisted homeowners in protecting their homes by volunteering at the Northwest Justice Project's and Washington State Bar Association's Home Foreclosure Legal Aid program.

Shashi, Ravi, and Venkatram speak about their immigration experiences in the episode and their advocacy for immigrants in similar situations to their own. They discuss the reality of immigration backlogs and need for recapturing unused visas.

Related Articles:

  • Tahmina Watson, "Proposed New Immigration Measure Will Benefit the Economy", Above the Law, November 23, 2021.
  • 2014 article by Tahmina Watson, "An easy fix for Obama to ease immigration backlog" advocating for visa recapture
  • Tahmina moderating this Niskanen Center Webinar – Stop the Incinerator: The high cost of green card slots going unused and the benefits of recapturing them discussing recapture of unused green cards

I am excited to announce that my 2nd Edition Startup Visa book is out now and available here. The Startup Visa Series is also out with interviews from experts on the topic such as Brad Feld, Jason Wiens, Troy Vossellor, John Dearie, and many more.

Find us on social media:
LinkedIn - Watson Immigration Law and Tahmina Watson
Twitter - @TahminaTalks
Instagram - @TahminaTalks
Facebook - Watson Immigration Law

View Details

Thank you for tuning in to Tahmina Talks Immigration. This episode is a clip taken from the University of Washington's CoMotion webinar on Fundamentals for Startups. An overwhelming number of American startups and enterprises have immigrant founders/co-founders. The US immigration system is complex and can present as a barrier for entrepreneurs, founders, and investors looking to bring their ideas to America. Learn more about different visa types and immigration pathways to the US in startups including law and policy developments from expert immigration attorney, Tahmina Watson. The link to the full video presentation is available here.

Learn more about Watson Immigration Law at www.watsonimmigrationlaw.com

Articles:

  • Tahmina Watson, "A Startup Visa: Now or Never?" Above the Law, July 20, 2021.
  • Tahmina Watson, "3 Ways to Be a Better Advocate for a Startup Visa" Entrepreneur Magazine, September 5, 2021.
  • Tahmina Watson, “International Entrepreneurs Now Have an Immigration Pathway to the U.S.”, Entrepreneur Magazine, June 9, 2021.
  • Tahmina Watson, Biden Revives The International Entrepreneur Rule”, Above the Law, May 11, 2021.

I am excited to announce that my 2nd Edition Startup Visa book is out now and available here. The Startup Visa Series is also out with interviews from experts on the topic such as Brad Feld, Jason Wiens, Troy Vossellor, John Dearie, and many more.

Find us on social media:
LinkedIn - Watson Immigration Law and Tahmina Watson
Twitter - @TahminaTalks
Instagram - @TahminaTalks
Facebook - Watson Immigration Law

View Details

Thank you for tuning in to Tahmina Talks Immigration. Today I have the honor of speaking with Jordan Lawrence, Business Development Associate as Houston EB-5. Developing new relationships with partners in the immigration investment industry is at the heart of what Jordan Lawrence does. Cultivating a network that spans attorneys, wealth managers, international realtors, private bankers and more, Mr. Lawrence is tasked with helping promote awareness of immigration solutions. Check out Houston EB-5 at their website linked here.

Learn more about Watson Immigration Law at www.watsonimmigrationlaw.com

I am excited to announce that my 2nd Edition Startup Visa book is out now and available here. The Startup Visa Series is also out with interviews from experts on the topic such as Brad Feld, Jason Wiens, Troy Vossellor, John Dearie, and many more.

Find us on social media:
LinkedIn - Watson Immigration Law and Tahmina Watson
Twitter - @TahminaTalks
Instagram - @TahminaTalks
Facebook - Watson Immigration Law

View Details

Thank you for tuning in to Tahmina Talks Immigration. This episode is a clip taken from Gener8or's webinar on the International Entrepreneur Rule. Gener8tor is a turnkey platform for the creative economy that connects startup founders, musicians, artists, investors, universities, and corporations. The gener8tor platform includes pre-accelerators, accelerators, corporate programming, conferences, and fellowships. Check out their work at their website linked here https://www.gener8tor.com/

Articles:

  • Tahmina Watson, “International Entrepreneurs Now Have an Immigration Pathway to the U.S.”, Entrepreneur Magazine, June 9, 2021.
  • Tahmina Watson, Biden Revives The International Entrepreneur Rule”, Above the Law, May 11, 2021.

I am excited to announce that my 2nd Edition Startup Visa book is out now and available here. The Startup Visa Series is also out with interviews from experts on the topic such as Brad Feld, Jason Wiens, Troy Vossellor, John Dearie, and many more.

Learn more about Watson Immigration Law at www.watsonimmigrationlaw.com

Find us on social media:
LinkedIn - Watson Immigration Law and Tahmina Watson
Twitter - @TahminaTalks
Instagram - @TahminaTalks
Facebook - Watson Immigration Law

View Details

Thank you for tuning in to Tahmina Talks Immigration. I am excited to announce that my 2nd Edition Startup Visa book is out now and available here. The Startup Visa Series is also out with interviews from experts on the topic such as Brad Feld, Jason Wiens, Troy Vossellor, John Dearie, and many more.

In this episode, I have the honor of speaking with Social Justice Advocate, Mark M. Bello. Mark Bello is an attorney and author of the Zachary Blake Legal Thriller Series. Mark is passionate about social justice and has brought his message of speaking truth to power and standing up for the rights of citizens to each of his "ripped from the headlines" novels. You can find his work and podcast, Justice Counts, linked here.

View Details

The Startup Visa Series is a series of interviews of thought leaders on startups, entrepreneurship, and immigration from around the world. Hear more about why they argue for the need for a startup visa. Guests include startup founders, venture capitalists, investors, policymakers, and others. This interview series coincides with the launch of the 2nd Edition of my book, The Startup Visa, available for order now here!

In this episode of the Startup Visa Series, I speak with Jason Wiens, Policy Director at the Kauffman Foundation. He oversees a national grant portfolio of advocacy projects that educate policymakers about how government can support entrepreneurship and directs the Kauffman-led Start Us Up coalition. His views on entrepreneurship policy have been published in The Wall Street Journal, Roll Call, The Hill, Washington Monthly, and VentureBeat. Before joining the Kauffman Foundation, Wiens spent 10 years on Capitol Hill, where he led bipartisan efforts on entrepreneurship, immigration, and economic mobility in the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate. Hope you enjoy listening to this interview as much as I enjoyed interviewing him!

After you listen to this interview, look out for the 2nd edition of The Startup Series book to learn more about this issue and the need for change! The Startup Visa series is produced and edited by Cambria Judd Babbitt. Be sure to follow me on my Amazon Author page and my author website www.tahminawatson.com as well as my usual blog at www.watsonimmigrationlaw.com. Follow us on social media for updates. Instagram: @tahminatalks Twitter @tahminatalks

Special thanks to our series sponsor, Joorney Business Plans for making these episodes possible. Learn more about their services here https://www.joorney.com/

View Details

The Startup Visa Series is a series of interviews of thought leaders on startups, entrepreneurship, and immigration from around the world. Hear more about why they argue for the need for a startup visa. Guests include startup founders, venture capitalists, investors, policymakers, and others. This interview series coincides with the launch of the 2nd Edition of my book, The Startup Visa, now available for purchase here!

In this episode of the Startup Visa Series, I speak with Danish Soomro, Founder of visadb.io, the first internet visa database. visadb.io is passionate about making travel, work and living abroad easy for the seven billion people around the globe by offering online access to professional and legal help. They also offer free visa information, relocation planning tools and talent migration data visualizations for individuals and businesses. They are a team of digital nomads, children of immigrants and global citizens. Hope you enjoy listening to this interview as much as I enjoyed interviewing him!

After you listen to this interview, check out the 2nd edition of The Startup Series book to learn more about this issue and the need for change! The Startup Visa series is produced and edited by Cambria Judd Babbitt. Be sure to follow me on my Amazon Author page and my author website www.tahminawatson.com as well as my usual blog at www.watsonimmigrationlaw.com. Follow us on social media for updates. Instagram: @tahminatalks Twitter @tahminatalks

Special thanks to our series sponsor, Joorney Business Plans for making these episodes possible. Learn more about their services here https://www.joorney.com/

View Details

The Startup Visa Series is a series of interviews of thought leaders on startups, entrepreneurship, and immigration from around the world. Hear more about why they argue for the need for a startup visa. Guests include startup founders, venture capitalists, investors, policymakers, and others. This interview series coincides with the launch of the 2nd Edition of my book, The Startup Visa, now available for purchase here!

In this episode, I interview Jennifer Weinhart, Policy Manager at Engine. Engine supports the growth of technology entrepreneurship through economic research, policy analysis, and advocacy on local and national issues. It is the voice of startups in government. Hope you enjoy listening as much as I enjoyed interviewing her!

After you listen to this interview, check out the 2nd edition of The Startup Series book to learn more about this issue and the need for change! The Startup Visa series is produced and edited by Cambria Judd Babbitt. Be sure to follow me on my Amazon Author page and my author website www.tahminawatson.com as well as my usual blog at www.watsonimmigrationlaw.com. Follow us on social media for updates. Instagram: @tahminatalks Twitter @tahminatalks

Special thanks to our series sponsor, Joorney Business Plans for making these episodes possible. Learn more about their services here https://www.joorney.com/

This podcast is not official legal or policy advice on behalf of Watson Immigration Law or Engine.

View Details

The Startup Visa Series is a series of interviews of thought leaders on startups, entrepreneurship, and immigration from around the world. Hear more about why they argue for the need for a startup visa. Guests include startup founders, venture capitalists, investors, policymakers, and others. This interview series coincides with the launch of the 2nd Edition of my book, The Startup Visa, set to launch tomorrow - July 20th!

In this episode of the Startup Visa Series, I speak with Craig Montuori, Co-Founder and Executive Director, Global Entrepreneur in Residence Coalition. He is also the Co-Founder of the C19 Coalition and was previously the founding partner of Venture Politics, where he advised numerous political campaigns on engaging the startup community and lobbied Capitol Hill offices and the White House on behalf of early-stage startups. Hope you enjoy listening to this interview as much as I enjoyed interviewing him!

After you listen to this interview, look out for the 2nd edition of The Startup Series book to learn more about this issue and the need for change! The Startup Visa series is produced and edited by Cambria Judd Babbitt. Be sure to follow me on my Amazon Author page: https://www.amazon.com/Tahmina-Watson/e/B00ZUXW8LG%3Fref=dbs_a_mng_rwt_scns_share and, my author website www.tahminawatson.com as well as my usual blog at www.watsonimmigrationlaw.com. Follow us on social media for updates. Instagram: @tahminatalks Twitter @tahminatalks

Special thanks to our series sponsor, Joorney Business Plans for making these episodes possible. Learn more about their services here https://www.joorney.com/

Also thanks to our episode sponsor, Park Evaluations https://www.parkeval.com/

View Details

The Startup Visa Series is a series of interviews of thought leaders on startups, entrepreneurship, and immigration from around the world. Hear more about why they argue for the need for a startup visa. Guests include startup founders, venture capitalists, investors, policymakers, and others. This interview series coincides with the launch of the 2nd Edition of my book, The Startup Visa, now available for purchase here!

In this episode of the Startup Visa Series, I speak with Brad Feld, Foundry Group Partner and Co-Founder of Techstars. Brad has been an early-stage investor and entrepreneur since 1987. Prior to co-founding Foundry Group, he co-founded Mobius Venture Capital and, prior to that, founded Intensity Ventures. Brad is also a co-founder of Techstars. Brad is a writer and speaker on the topics of venture capital investing and entrepreneurship. He’s written a number of books as part of the Startup Revolution series and writes the blog Feld Thoughts. Hope you enjoy listening to this interview as much as I enjoyed interviewing him!

After you listen to this interview, look out for the 2nd edition of The Startup Series book to learn more about this issue and the need for change! The Startup Visa series is produced and edited by Cambria Judd Babbitt. Be sure to follow me on my Amazon Author page: https://www.amazon.com/Tahmina-Watson/e/B00ZUXW8LG%3Fref=dbs_a_mng_rwt_scns_share and, my author website www.tahminawatson.com as well as my usual blog at www.watsonimmigrationlaw.com. Follow us on social media for updates. Instagram: @tahminatalks Twitter @tahminatalks

Special thanks to our series sponsor, Joorney Business Plans for making these episodes possible. Learn more about their services here https://www.joorney.com/

Also thanks to our episode sponsor, Park Evaluations https://www.parkeval.com/

View Details

The Startup Visa Series is a series of interviews of thought leaders on startups, entrepreneurship, and immigration from around the world. Hear more about why they argue for the need for a startup visa. Guests include startup founders, venture capitalists, investors, policymakers, and others. This interview series coincides with the launch of the 2nd Edition of my book, The Startup Visa, which is set to launch July 20, 2021!

In this episode of the Startup Visa Series, I speak with John Dearie. John Dearie is the founder and President of the Center for American Entrepreneurship. He is the former Acting CEO of the Financial Services Forum, a financial and economic policy organization comprised of the chief executive officers of the largest financial institutions with operations in the United States. I hope you enjoy listening to this interview as much as I enjoyed interviewing him!

After you listen to this interview, look out for the 2nd edition of The Startup Series book to learn more about this issue and the need for change! The Startup Visa series is produced and edited by Cambria Judd Babbitt. Be sure to follow me on my Amazon Author page, my author website www.tahminawatson.com, as well as my usual blog at www.watsonimmigrationlaw.com. Follow us on social media for updates. Instagram: @tahminatalks Twitter @tahminatalks

Special thanks to our series sponsor, Joorney Business Plans for making these episodes possible. Learn more about their services here https://www.joorney.com/

View Details

The Startup Visa Series is a series of interviews of thought leaders on startups, entrepreneurship, and immigration from around the world. Hear more about why they argue for the need for a startup visa. Guests include startup founders, venture capitalists, investors, policymakers, and others. This interview series coincides with the launch of the 2nd Edition of my book, The Startup Visa, which is set to launch July 20, 2021!

In this episode of the Startup Visa Series, I speak with Stuart Anderson, Executive Director of the National Foundation for American Policy. The National Foundation for American Policy is a non-partisan public policy research organization focusing on trade, immigration and related issues based in Arlington, Virginia. From August 2001 to January 2003, Stuart served as Executive Associate Commissioner for Policy and Planning and Counselor to the Commissioner at the Immigration and Naturalization Service. He has an M.A. from Georgetown University and a B.A. in Political Science from Drew University. Stuart has published articles in the Wall Street Journal, New York Times, and other publications, and is a senior contributor to Forbes. Hope you enjoy listening to this interview as much as I enjoyed interviewing him!

After you listen to this interview, look out for the 2nd edition of The Startup Series book to learn more about this issue and the need for change! The Startup Visa series is produced and edited by Cambria Judd Babbitt. Be sure to follow me on my Amazon Author page: https://www.amazon.com/Tahmina-Watson/e/B00ZUXW8LG%3Fref=dbs_a_mng_rwt_scns_share and, my author website www.tahminawatson.com as well as my usual blog at www.watsonimmigrationlaw.com. Follow us on social media for updates. Instagram: @tahminatalks Twitter @tahminatalks

Special thanks to our series sponsor, Joorney Business Plans for making these episodes possible. Learn more about their services here https://www.joorney.com/

View Details

The Startup Visa Series is a series of interviews of thought leaders on startups, entrepreneurship, and immigration from around the world. Hear more about why they argue for the need for a startup visa. Guests include startup founders, venture capitalists, investors, policymakers, and others. This interview series coincides with the launch of the 2nd Edition of my book, The Startup Visa, which is set to launch July 20, 2021!

In this episode of the Startup Visa Series, I speak with Michael Schutzler. Michael is the CEO of the Washington Technology Industry Association (WTIA), a co-op of 1,000 technology companies working together to build a strong technology sector in a thriving community. They are the unifying voice of the tech industry in WA state. Hope you enjoy listening to this interview as much as I enjoyed interviewing him!

After you listen to this interview, look out for the 2nd edition of The Startup Series book to learn more about this issue and the need for change! The Startup Visa series is produced and edited by Cambria Judd Babbitt. Be sure to follow me on my Amazon Author page: https://www.amazon.com/Tahmina-Watson/e/B00ZUXW8LG%3Fref=dbs_a_mng_rwt_scns_share and, my author website www.tahminawatson.com as well as my usual blog at www.watsonimmigrationlaw.com. Follow us on social media for updates. Instagram: @tahminatalks Twitter @tahminatalks

Special thanks to our series sponsor, Joorney Business Plans for making these episodes possible. Learn more about their services here https://www.joorney.com/

View Details

The Startup Visa Series is a series of interviews of thought leaders on startups, entrepreneurship, and immigration from around the world. Hear more about why they argue for the need for a startup visa. Guests include startup founders, venture capitalists, investors, policymakers, and others. This interview series coincides with the launch of the 2nd Edition of my book, The Startup Visa, which is set to launch July 20, 2021!

In this episode of the Startup Visa Series, I speak with Nina Roberts. Nina Roberts is a New York City-based journalist and photographer covering business through the lens of culture and immigration. Her stories chronicle how businesses, especially immigrant-owned, are changing cultures and economies. Her stories have been published in The New York Times, Grub Street, and Marketplace, among other outlets, along with her photos. Hope you enjoy listening to this interview as much as I enjoyed interviewing her!

After you listen to this interview, look out for the 2nd edition of The Startup Series book to learn more about this issue and the need for change! The Startup Visa series is produced and edited by Cambria Judd Babbitt. Be sure to follow me on my Amazon Author page and my author website www.tahminawatson.com as well as my usual blog at www.watsonimmigrationlaw.com. Follow us on social media for updates. Instagram: @tahminatalks Twitter @tahminatalks

Special thanks to our series sponsor, Joorney Business Plans for making these episodes possible. Learn more about their services here https://www.joorney.com/

Also thanks to our episode sponsor, Park Evaluations https://www.parkeval.com/

View Details

The Startup Visa Series is a series of interviews of thought leaders on startups, entrepreneurship, and immigration from around the world. Hear more about why they argue for the need for a startup visa. Guests include startup founders, venture capitalists, investors, policymakers, and others. This interview series coincides with the launch of the 2nd Edition of my book, The Startup Visa which is set to launch July 20, 2021!

In this episode of the Startup Visa Series, I speak with Troy Vosseller. Troy is the Co-Founder of gener8tor. Gener8tor is a turnkey platform for the creative economy that connects startup founders, musicians, artists, investors, universities, and corporations. The gener8tor platform includes pre-accelerators, accelerators, corporate programming, conferences, and fellowships. Hope you enjoy listening to this interview as much as I enjoyed interviewing him!

After you listen to this interview, look out for the 2nd edition of The Startup Series book to learn more about this issue and the need for change! The Startup Visa series is produced and edited by Cambria Judd Babbitt. Be sure to follow me on my Amazon Author page: https://www.amazon.com/Tahmina-Watson/e/B00ZUXW8LG%3Fref=dbs_a_mng_rwt_scns_share and, my author website www.tahminawatson.com as well as my usual blog at www.watsonimmigrationlaw.com. Follow us on social media for updates. Instagram: @tahminatalks Twitter @tahminatalks

Special thanks to our series sponsor, Joorney Business Plans for making these episodes possible. Learn more about their services here https://www.joorney.com/

Also thanks to our episode sponsor, Park Evaluations https://www.parkeval.com/

View Details

The Startup Visa Series is a series of interviews of thought leaders on startups, entrepreneurship, and immigration from around the world. Hear more about why they argue for the need for a startup visa. Guests include startup founders, venture capitalists, investors, policymakers, and others. This interview series coincides with the launch of the 2nd Edition of my book, The Startup Visa which is set to launch July 20, 2021!

In this episode of the Startup Visa Series, I speak with Valentina Primo. The founder of Startups Without Borders, Valentina is a journalist with a Master's in Peace Studies, Human Rights, and EU policies. Startups Without Borders connects the most ambitious refugee and migrant entrepreneurs with resources to grow their business while providing investors with an entry point to under-the-radar startups with disruptive potential. Hope you enjoy listening to this interview as much as I enjoyed interviewing her!

After you listen to this interview, look out for the 2nd edition of The Startup Series book to learn more about this issue and the need for change! The Startup Visa series is produced and edited by Cambria Judd Babbitt. Be sure to follow me on my Amazon Author page: https://www.amazon.com/Tahmina-Watson/e/B00ZUXW8LG%3Fref=dbs_a_mng_rwt_scns_share and, my author website www.tahminawatson.com as well as my usual blog at www.watsonimmigrationlaw.com. Follow us on social media for updates. Instagram: @tahminatalks Twitter @tahminatalks

Special thanks to our series sponsor, Joorney Business Plans for making these episodes possible. Learn more about their services here https://www.joorney.com/

View Details

The Startup Visa Series is a series of interviews of thought leaders on startups, entrepreneurship, and immigration from around the world. Hear more about why they argue for the need for a startup visa. Guests include startup founders, venture capitalists, investors, policy makers and others. This interview series coincides with the launch of the 2nd Edition of my book, The Startup Visa which is set to launch July 20, 2021!

In this episode of the Startup Visa Series, I speak with Jeff Farrah who serves as General Counsel at the National Venture Capital Association, https://nvca.org/ where he advocates before Congress, the White House, and agencies for pro-entrepreneurship policies and leads in-house legal matters for the association, including management of the NVCA Model Legal Documents. Prior to joining NVCA, Jeff was Counsel to the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation where he advised Chairman John Thune and members of the committee on technology, telecommunications, and Internet policy. Hope you enjoy listening to this interview as much as I enjoyed interviewing him!

After you listen to this interview, look out for the 2nd edition of The Startup Series book to learn more about this issue and the need for change! The Startup Visa series is produced and edited by Cambria Judd Babbitt. Be sure to follow me on my Amazon Author page: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Tahmina+Watson&i=audible&ref=dp_byline_sr_audible_1 And, my author website www.tahminawatson.com as well as my usual blog at www.watsonimmigrationlaw.com. Follow us on social media for updates. Instagram: @tahminatalks Twitter @tahminatalks

Special thanks to our series sponsor, Joorney Business Plans for making these episodes possible. Learn more about their services here https://www.joorney.com/

View Details

Legal Heroes is a series of interviews of lawyers who have stepped up beyond their day jobs to help in the various crises created by the Trump administration. This interview series is now a book!In this episode of Legal Heroes, I speak with Bob Ferguson, Attorney General of Washington State. AG Ferguson has been a fearless leader throughout the Trump era fighting against the Muslim bans and much much more. He has been a beacon of hope during a dark period in American history. He will go down in history as one of the most impactful attorney generals of our time. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to sit down with him, learn from him and share his story with you. Hope you enjoy listening to this interview as much as enjoyed interviewing him! After you listen to his interview, pick up the book, and read more about him!The Legal Heroes series is produced and edited by Nicole Lockett.Here is a link to the book: www.amazon.com/Legal-Heroes-Trum…4VZ90VX1JYET77BJ9If you are in Seattle, WA, the book is also available at Island Books and Arundel Books.The audio version of the book is finally out! You can find it on Audible, Nook and many other book platforms. Be sure to follow me on my Amazon Author page: www.amazon.com/Tahmina-Watson/e/…ng_rwt_scns_shareAnd, my author website www.tahminawatson.com as well as my usual blog at www.watsonimmigrationlaw.com.

View Details

Legal Heroes is a series of interviews of lawyers who have stepped up beyond their day jobs to help in the various crises created by the Trump administration. This interview series is now a book!In this episode of Legal Heroes, I speak with Margaret O'Donnell, Immigration Lawyer & Playwright. She is someone I admire dearly and feel lucky to call a friend. When inhumane immigration detention of children separated from parents was making headline news, Margaret took to storytelling through her play The Detention Lottery to expose how immigration court really works. Her powerful play has made an incredible impact and is worth watching, if you get the chance. Hope you enjoy listening to this interview as much as enjoyed interviewing her! After you listen to her interview, pick up the book, and read more about her!The Legal Heroes series is produced and edited by Nicole Lockett.Here is a link to the book: www.amazon.com/Legal-Heroes-Trum…4VZ90VX1JYET77BJ9If you are in Seattle, WA, the book is also available at Island Books and Arundel Books.An audio version of the book is in the works! Be sure to follow me on my Amazon Author page: www.amazon.com/Tahmina-Watson/e/…ng_rwt_scns_shareAnd, my author website www.tahminawatson.com as well as my usual blog at www.watsonimmigrationlaw.com.

View Details

Legal Heroes is a series of interviews of lawyers who have stepped up beyond their day jobs to help in the various crises created by the Trump administration. This interview series is now a book!In this episode of Legal Heroes, I speak with Aneelah Afzali, Founder and Executive Director of MAPS AMEN. Aneelah is a dear friend, someone I respect and admire dearly. Aneelah, a former lawyer, is a fierce advocate against Islamaphobia. She uniquely brought together the broader community in her advocacy mission. Inspiring and energizing, you cannot help but admire her when you hear her speak.Hope you enjoy listening to this interview as much as enjoyed interviewing her! After you listen to her interview, pick up the book, and find her in chapter 10!The Legal Heroes series is produced and edited by Nicole Lockett.Here is a link to the book: www.amazon.com/Legal-Heroes-Trum…4VZ90VX1JYET77BJ9If you are in Seattle, WA, the book is also available at Island Books and Arundel Books.An audio version of the book is in the works! Be sure to follow me on my Amazon Author page: www.amazon.com/Tahmina-Watson/e/…ng_rwt_scns_shareAnd, my author website www.tahminawatson.com as well as my usual blog at www.watsonimmigrationlaw.com.

View Details

Legal Heroes is a series of interviews of lawyers who have stepped up beyond their day jobs to help in the various crises created by the Trump administration. This interview series is now a book!In this episode of Legal Heroes, I speak with Traci Feit Love, Founder and Executive Director of Lawyers for Good Government. Traci is one of my personal heroes. She created a brand new organization and mobilized 125,000 lawyers from across the United States to help in various Trump created crises. Hope you enjoy listening to his interview as much as enjoyed interviewing her! After you listen to her interview, pick up the book, and find her in chapter 4!The Legal Heroes series is produced and edited by Nicole Lockett.Here is a link to the book: www.amazon.com/Legal-Heroes-Trum…4VZ90VX1JYET77BJ9If you are in Seattle, WA, the book is also available at Island Books and Arundel Books.An audio version of the book is in the works! Be sure to follow Tahmina on her Amazon Author page: https://www.amazon.com/Tahmina-Watson/e/B00ZUXW8LG%3Fref=dbs_a_mng_rwt_scns_shareAnd, her author website www.tahminawatson.com as well as her usual blog at www.watsonimmigrationlaw.com.

View Details

Legal Heroes is a series of interviews of lawyers who have stepped up beyond their day jobs to help in the various crises created by the Trump administration. This interview series is now a book!In this episode of Legal Heroes, I speak with Drew Caputo, Vice-President of Litigation for Lands, Wildlife, and Oceans at Earthjustice. Earthjustice is the nation's largest non-profit environmental law organization. With the slogan "Because the earth needs a good lawyer", Drew and his team is working hard to ensure US environmental laws are protecting our lands and more. Hope you enjoy listening to his interview as much as enjoyed interviewing him! After you listen to his interview, pick up the book, and find him in chapter 8! The Legal Heroes series is produced and edited by Nicole Lockett.Here is a link to the book: www.amazon.com/Legal-Heroes-Trum…4VZ90VX1JYET77BJ9If you are in Seattle, WA, the book is also available at Island Books and Arundel Books.There will be a book celebration via zoom on January 9th at 11am PST. Here is a link- https://www.eventbrite.com/e/legal-heroes-book-launch-party-a-celebration-of-global-legal-heroes-tickets-131147895887 Join us! It is free to attend and there will be some fun giveaways. We'll look forward to seeing you there!

View Details

Legal Heroes is a series of interviews of lawyers who have stepped up beyond their day jobs to help in the various crises created by the Trump administration. This interview series is now a book!In this episode of Legal Heroes, I speak with Fiona McEntee, Immigration Attorney and author of the children's book Our American Dream. She is a renowned and award-winning attorney who has been at the forefront of the Trump administration policy challenges. In the last four years, her voice has been an important one. After you hear her interview, read about her in the book! Her children's book Our American Dream is available on Amazon and other book stores. It is an honor to call her a colleague and friend. The Legal Heroes series is produced and edited by Nicole Lockett.Here is a link to the book: www.amazon.com/Legal-Heroes-Trum…4VZ90VX1JYET77BJ9If you are in Seattle, WA, the book is also available at Island Books and Arundel Books.

View Details

Legal Heroes is a series of interviews of lawyers who have stepped up beyond their day jobs to help in the various crises created by the Trump administration. This interview series is now a book!In this episode of Legal Heroes, I speak with Shelly Garzon, Partner at Favros Law and one of the first volunteers for WIDEN. She is a renowned and award-winning attorney specializing in the medical malpractice law field. She is a woman after my own heart who goes by the motto of 'just do it'! As one of the first volunteers for WIDEN, she learned immigration law basics quickly to helped detained immigrants and continued to take multiple cases despite her own busy schedule as a partner at a law firm and mother of minor children. Her compassion and generosity are unparalleled and you will agree as you hear this interview and read about her in the book!The Legal Heroes series is produced and edited by Nicole Lockett.Here is a link to the book: www.amazon.com/Legal-Heroes-Trum…4VZ90VX1JYET77BJ9If you are in Seattle, WA, the book is also available at Island Books and Arundel Books.

View Details

Legal Heroes is a series of interviews of lawyers who have stepped up beyond their day jobs to help in the various crises created by the Trump administration. This interview series is now a book!In this episode of Legal Heroes, I speak with Matt Adams, Legal Director at the Northwest Immigrant Rights Project, one of the leading immigrant advocacy organizations in the Pacific Northwest and the United States in general. During the Trump administration, Matt has lead numerous precedent setting casesstepped up to volunteer over and over again in immigration cases to fight the administration's adverse policies. Listen to his interview and read about him in the book!The Legal Heroes series is produced and edited by Nicole Lockett.Here is a link to the book: www.amazon.com/Legal-Heroes-Trum…4VZ90VX1JYET77BJ9If you are in Seattle, WA, the book is also available at Island Books and Arundel Books.

View Details

Legal Heroes is a new series that is a compilation of interviews of lawyers who have stepped up beyond their day jobs to help in the various crises created by this administration. This interview series is now a book!In this episode of Legal Heroes, I speak with Jill Scott, Legal Director at a Seattle Biotech company, and WIDEN volunteer. During the Trump administration, Jill stepped up to volunteer over and over again in immigration cases, she has traveled to the US-Mexico border to volunteer at refugee camps and has written extensively about her experience. She is an inspiration, especially to anyone who has been wondering how to make a difference. Listen to her interview and read about her in the book!The Legal Heroes series is produced and edited by Nicole Lockett.Here is a link to the book: www.amazon.com/Legal-Heroes-Trum…4VZ90VX1JYET77BJ9

View Details

Legal Heroes is a new series that is a compilation of interviews of lawyers who have stepped up beyond their day jobs to help in the various crises created by this administration. This interview series is now a book!In this episode of Legal Heroes, I speak with Joan Tierney, Retired Administrative Law Judge and WIDEN volunteer. Law was her second career during which time she made an immense impact on the community. Upon retirement, she continues to make a difference in the lives of immigrants and community members as an activist and volunteer lawyer. There isn't a day in the year that Joan doesn't take some action to help social justice issues. I dare you not to be inspired by her! Listen to her interview and read about her in the book!The Legal Heroes series is produced and edited by Nicole Lockett.Here is a link to the book: www.amazon.com/Legal-Heroes-Trum…4VZ90VX1JYET77BJ9

View Details

Legal Heroes is a new series that is a compilation of interviews of lawyers who have stepped up beyond their day jobs to help in the various crises created by this administration. This interview series is now a book!In this episode of Legal Heroes, I speak with Erin Albanese, cofounder of Lawyer Moms Action and WIDEN. She has found activism in using her corporate law expertise in empowering non-profits and advocacy organizations. She has been at the forefront of many challenges over the last four years especially making a difference in immigration as well as other issues. Listen to her interview and read about her in the book!The Legal Heroes series is produced and edited by Nicole Lockett.Here is a link to the book: www.amazon.com/Legal-Heroes-Trum…4VZ90VX1JYET77BJ9

View Details

Legal Heroes is a new series that is a compilation of interviews of lawyers who have stepped up beyond their day jobs to help in the various crises created by this administration. This interview series is now a book! In this episode of Legal Heroes, I speak with one of Washington State's leading lawyers Michele Storms. She is the Executive Director of the Washington State Chapter of the ACLU. She had lead many civil rights challenges over the last four years and is an inspirational person. Listen to her interview and read about her in the book!The Legal Heroes series is produced and edited by Nicole Lockett.Here is a link to the book: www.amazon.com/Legal-Heroes-Trum…4VZ90VX1JYET77BJ9

View Details

Legal Heroes is a new series that is a compilation of interviews of lawyers who have stepped up beyond their day jobs to help in the various crises created by this administration. This interview series is now a book! And the book will be available to purchase on Friday, October 2nd, 2020. You can search Amazon or wherever you buy your books!In this episode of Legal Heroes, I speak with my good friend Takao Yamada. Takao Yamada, a Seattle-based attorney, and entrepreneur is a co-founder of WIDEN. He previously helped found AirportLawyer.org. Yamada worked on the app after helping to coordinate the emergency legal response at SeaTac airport. He has worked in public policy and politics for a number of years. In addition to co-founding tech startups, Yamada has worked for the Washington State legislature and as a clerk for Justice Mary Yu. Yamada is a graduate of Georgetown Law and Hobart College.The Legal Heroes series is produced and edited by Nicole Lockett.Update: Here is a link to the book: https://www.amazon.com/Legal-Heroes-Trump-Era-Inspired-ebook/dp/B08KC7MBFV/ref=zg_bs_157006011_1?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=E4F4VZ90VX1JYET77BJ9

View Details

As part of our "Legal Heroes" series, I'm thrilled to speak with internationally acclaimed aviation attorney, and founder & CEO of Lightening Law- Alisa Brodkowitz. Alisa has worked on some critical plane crash cases include several Boeing Max crashes. With over two decades of successfully representing victims of plane crashes around the world, Alisa conceived of Lightning Law- a platform for remote legal case management and trials. While she had been working on the idea for a couple of years, Covid19 accelerated the launch of the startup. Hear more about it from Alisa. Here are some useful links to learn about her and her innovative company that promises to revolutionize the way trials are managed and conducted.https://www.lightning.law/ A huge thank you to Alisa for taking time out of her busy day to join me on the show. Please note that the show was recorded just before she launched the startup which is now live!

View Details

This episode was recorded on election day of November 8, 2016. I didn't get to upload this until July 18, 2020 though. Initially, I didn't have the heart to post it and then I simply forgot to post it. But I am now working on a project that reminded me that this episode is important and must be preserved. Hope you will enjoy and have some aha moments, given what has transpired since then. Here is a link to the blogpost from that day: https://watsonimmigrationlaw.com/2016/11/05/electionandimmigrationreform/ I am excited to announce panelists for my special election day “Immigration with Tahmina” show! Two outstanding immigration experts and community leaders will be joining me for another special ‘election & immigration reform’ episode! Rich Stolz, Executive Director of One America and renowned immigration attorney Joel Paget will joining me for this special ‘election & immigration’ show on November 8th 2016 at 10am PST!Joel Paget is an immigration lawyer and senior member of the immigration group at Ryan Swanson & Cleveland, in Seattle. He has over 30 years’ experience in all aspects of immigration law, with an emphasis on business and tax issues, and he lectures and writes frequently on these topics. He is an emeritus trustee of Seattle Pacific University and served for 28 years as director and secretary of the Seattle Pacific Foundation. For many years, he has been listed in The Best Lawyers in America® and has been selected by that publication as a “super lawyer” each year since the inception of the award.Rich Stolz was born in Seoul, South Korea. His parents met in Korea, when his father, an American citizen, worked there in the construction field. His mother became a naturalized citizen, and Rich’s family moved to the United States when he was three. Rich grew up in Redwood City, California, where he was raised by his mother. Growing up, Rich was always conscious of his bi-racial identity, which was framed by his and his mother’s experience as new-comers to the United States. From an early age, Rich thought a good deal about what it meant to be a citizen, what it meant to be American, and the consequences of prejudice.Over the last fifteen years, Rich has worked at the Center for Community Change, a national organization based in Washington, D.C. During that time, he focused on the intersection of policy, politics and organizing across a broad spectrum of issues impacting low-income and minority communities, including jobs and income support policy, immigration policy, infrastructure investment and environmental justice. He has lived and organized in communities as diverse as Portland, Maine; Montgomery, Alabama; Tucson, Arizona; Washington, D.C.; and Seattle, Washington. Read more about Rich here.This show is guaranteed to have a riveting discussion on immigration and election with our two immigration experts! Be sure to tune into this exciting episode at 10 am PST on November 8th on Desi 1250 AM . You can tune into your radio in the greater Seattle area at 1250 AM or listen online at http://www.desi1250am.com/. You can download the Desi 1250am app from the app store. If you have questions, you are welcome to email me in advance at info@watsonimmigrationlaw.com or at contact@desi1250am.com.

View Details

In this episode of Tahmina Talks Immigration, I sit down with international tax expert Moses Man of MSquared Tax (www.msqauredtax.com). Moses and I have presented at various panels together to discuss these issues. Today, we talk about Covid19 implications on becoming a 'tax resident' and other tax issues that immigrants should be aware of. Visit Moses' website to get in touch with him if you have further questions for him.

View Details

Welcome to our latest episode! We're in the middle of a global pandemic where remote work from home is the new normal. Tahmina Talks 'remote work' and more with Abhay Mishra, Cofounder of Kaamwork- a company that focuses on decentralizing the work force by enabling work-from-anywhere. This is a timely interview given that record number of Americans are out of work. And while immigrants may want to look for work outside the US, American workers could equally work for companies outside the US also. Listen to Abhay Mishra talk how he envisioned Kaamwork before the pandemic ground the globe and how his company is uniquely positioned to help anyone anywhere work for anyone. A huge thank you to Abhay for taking time to speak with me all the way from India. Here are some links people will find useful:https://www.linkedin.com/in/abhaywork/https://www.kaamwork.com We would love to hear your thoughts on this episode and keep an eye out for Abhay coming back to talk more remote-work soon!

View Details

In this episode, Tahmina Talks immigration with Martine Kalaw- a survivor of our immigration system. We discuss her first hand experience of going through the immigration court process that lasted for years. She is a beautiful, smart and articulate advocate for the injustice that is the convoluted system in which today's crisis is seeing children in court without representation. Martine is an author, speaker and survivor of current immigration laws and reform. Her debut memoir, “Illegal Among Us" recounts her journey through a 7- year deportation battle with no family or country, to success as a senior level executive with an advanced degree, a father she thought dead, and finally her long-sought U.S. citizenship. Martine has written for publications like the Huffington Post, is a Tedx speaker and has appeared on syndicated networks like C-span.You can learn more about her and buy her book at https://www.martinekalaw.com/biography.Here is a link to the chart we discussed on the show: https://www.martinekalaw.com/?lightbox=dataItem-jwtm715q And here is a link to the King County Bar Association article in which WIDEN, the non-profit Tahmina helped found, is mentioned. https://www.kcba.org/For-Lawyers/Bar-Bulletin/PostId/916/how-can-we-help-with-the-immigration-detention-crisis

View Details

On our latest episode, we chat with Noah Purcell, Washington state Solicitor General. He argued the very first travel ban case and won a stay against the executive order. We chat about the travel ban and some of the other immigration cases Noah and the WA Attorney General's office has been fighting in the last couple of years. The impact of his work is truly profound! Noah is exploring the option to run for WA Attorney General in the future. You can learn more here- https://purcellforthepeople.com/. Here is a link to his bio: https://purcellforthepeople.com/about.html __________Don't forget to give us 5 stars on iTunes or wherever you get your podcasts so others can find us. Thanks for listening!

View Details

In this episode, Tahmina Talks Immigration with the Producer Chevi Chung and Director Ellen peters as well as one of the actors Nicole Lockett (who is also Senior Paralegal and Office Manager at Watson Immigration Law) of a play called Sincerely America. If in Washington State, we hope you will watch the play! Tickets can be purchased at www.sincerelyamerica.bpt.me. Listen to this podcast to learn more! Sincerely, America is inspired by the immigrant experience in an effort to create empathy and understanding for each other by reaching into the past to see the history of our community. The first play of the production, American Dreams, a play by Linda Britt and directed by Ellen Peters, focuses on the immigrant experience in the U.S., an experience which varies widely depending on country of origin, race, religion, age, and location allowing the characters to focus on the aspect of their story that is most meaningful to them. The second play of the production, The Art of Remembering, a play by Adina L. Ruskin and directed by Chevi Chung, shows three actors embodying different facets of a young woman who returns home to bury her father. While there, she cleans out her closet and with each object she discovers, she touches on the stories of her ancestors that are as diverse as a feisty Polish-Jewish émigré taking America by storm, an Argentine who stands against his country's repression, and a woman who witnesses the fall of the Berlin Wall. Together, Sincerely, America reminds us of the beauty of life and the importance of our past. Director Ellen Peters has earned a B.A. in theatre and psychology from Bates College in Maine and an Ed.M. in Administration, Planning and Social Policy from Harvard University. She has also studied improvisational comedy. Ellen has performed on stage and screen with professional and community productions and has directed and taught at community theatres in Maine and in Washington, D.C., all prior to her move to Tacoma in 2011. While in Maine, she served on the LA Arts Board and the Lewiston Auburn Public Theatre (AEA) Board. As Chair of the Education Committee, Ellen spearheaded a school liaison program, which engaged a more diverse audience. Since moving to Washington state, Ellen has served on the Board of Tacoma Little Theatre and acted and/or directed with Tacoma Little Theatre, Dukesbay Productions, Toy Boat Theatre, and Found Space Productions. She has become increasingly interested in the impact of theatre on the audience and the larger community and focuses her interests on scripts which prompt discussion and educate and challenge. Ellen is delighted to be a part of the Tacoma arts community and is an administrator at the University of Puget Sound. Producer Chevy Chung: Chevi Chung is the visionary behind Empathos Company and a theatre artist currently based in Tacoma. She has worked in London, Los Angeles, and Seattle. She holds an MA in Acting from the Guildford School of Acting, pursued her undergraduate theatre studies at the University of La Verne, and earned a BA in Organizational Leadership from Brandman University. Chevi is energized by stories about People of Color, women, and history.Actor Nicole Lockett: Nicole is the Senior Paralegal and Office Manager of Watson Immigration Law. She received her Associate of Applied Sciences in Paralegal Studies from Highline Community College in 2010. She holds an Associate of Arts degree with an emphasis on Performance Arts, English, and Anthropology from Green River Community College, where she graduated with honors and as a member of Phi Theta Kappa. Among her many talents, she has a passion for the arts and animals! She is an enthusiastic and avid actor who performs regularly at local community theatres. Multi-talented Nicole is additionally a semi-professional choreographer in the Puget Sound Area

View Details

Are you an international student hoping to take your next career steps here in the US after graduation? Tahmina answers live questions about OPT, H-1Bs and the latest changes to US immigration and visa policy.

View Details

In this episode of our new series co-hosted by Seattle Globalist co-founder Alex Stonehill, Alex and Tahmina discuss a new USCIS memo which creates a policy to deny cases without requesting new evidence. This drastic new policy will have a severe effect on individuals and businesses alike. The new memo took effect on 9/11/18. Below is a link to the memo and watch out for our column in The Seattle Globalist following this podcast! Here is a link to the memo: https://www.uscis.gov/news/news-releases/uscis-updates-policy-guidance-certain-requests-evidence-and-notices-intent-deny

View Details

We're reversing roles for a new series of podcasts! Alex Stonehill, co-founder of The Seattle Globalist, a guest on our show before, will be hosting the series! Alex will interview Tahmina to talk immigration news updates! Immigration policies are changing fast and furiously with devastating consequences. In this first of the series, published on August 21, 2018, Alex and Tahmina discuss new drastic policy changes regarding student visas in the US. If you or anyone you know is an international student in the US, this is an unmissable show. New changes go into effect on August 9th, 2018. Please listen and share! Thanks for listening!

View Details

On this episode which aired on June 1st, 2018, I continue to chat with Pete Chase, CEO of Columbia International Finance, a regional center. We discuss the EB5 visa, investment options and why the EB5 is a good option for a green card. This show was aired on Facebook Live also. See the FB page for @Columbia International Finance for the a video recording. If you have any questions, you are welcome to email us at info@watsonimmigrationlaw.com

View Details

On this episode which aired on May 25, 2018, I chat with Pete Chase, CEO of Columbia International Finance (CIF). CIF is a regional center in which EB5 investors can invest to seek a green card. Pete will host a webinar on May 31 2018 at 5:30pm, live on Facebook. https://www.cifwa.com/ Log in here to be part of the discussion. This webinar is especially useful for H1b visa holders stuck in the visa backlog (I misstated the date when speaking on the show). In this show, I also discuss the end of the International Entrepreneur Rule. The proposed rules to end IER were finally released. A sad day for those of you who know how hard I worked on the rule. If you have any questions or comments, email me at info@watsonimmigrationlaw.com.

View Details

In this episode, Tahmina Talks Immigration with the Founders of The Sanaya Set, a subscription box for a cause. Children of immigrants, Tarul Tripathi and Sandy Matthews discuss their immigrant heritage and need to give back. The Sanaya Set donates 10% of its proceeds to charitable causes. This season, Tahmina is the Brand Ambassador and the 10% goes to ACLU! Tune in and listen to how this company gives back in spades over and over again! Here are some links:1. Blog post of show: http://immigrationlawyersinseattle.com/2018/05/09/tahmina-talks-immigration-with-founders-of-the-sanaya-set-on-friday-may-11th-at-10am-pst-on-radio-punjab/2. ww.SanayaSet.com

View Details

This is an introductory show on Radio Punjab. Given the show is broadcast live in Seattle and Kent, WA and three cities in California, Tahmina introduces herself, her practice areas and recent immigration issues causing concern to the South Asian community.

View Details

On this special episode aired on 10/13/2017 during Desi1250am Drive Time, I have the great honor of speaking with Felicia Escobar Carrillo, Special Assistant on Immigration to President Obama. Many of the rules we work with today were created under the leadership of Felicia. Listen to this wonderful discussion about DACA, H4 EAD and much more. More about Felicia here: http://immigrationlawyersinseattle.com/2017/10/12/special-show-drive-time-4pm-1013-talking-immigration-felicia-escobar-much/ This show happens to be my last show on Desi 1250am as the station changed ownership. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to be a talk show host on radio, thank you Desi 1250am for the opportunity.

View Details

Yesterday on Tahmina Talks Immigration Radio Show, Tahmina covered immigration related news headlines including #DACA and how October 5th is the deadline for renewing any current work permits. Some monies have been donated to the Governor's office to assist applicants with the fees and you can visit the Northwest Immigrant Rights Project's website for more info. She also talked about the most recent travel ban that includes Chad, North Korea, & Venezuela. Listen to this and so much more that she discussed this Friday at 8pm! #Immigration #Desi1250AM

View Details

Listen to this timely discussion with nationally renowned Todd Schulte, President of FWD.us. This was originally a Facebook Live show onsite at the immigration conference held by the Washington Technology Industry Association. Here is the blogpost about his appearance. He shares important insights into the current status of immigration chaos and what we can all do about it. http://immigrationlawyersinseattle.com/2017/09/25/todd-schulte-president-fwd-us-talks-immigration-tahmina-926-1150am-facebook-live/

View Details

Listen to this exemplary immigrant and community leader- Rita Meher, Founder and Executive Director of Tasveer about her journey as an immigrant and path that lead to the creation of Tasveer. Here is the blogpost about her appearance.http://immigrationlawyersinseattle.com/2017/09/17/tahmina-talks-immigration-rita-meher-executive-director-tasveer-september-19th-10am-pst-desi-1250am/

View Details

In this episode I discuss the new announcement that DACA would be rescinded and what steps to take.

View Details

Listen to this discussion with Shiza Shahid, entrepreneur extraodinaire and most notably known as the co-founder of Malala Fund. She chats about entrepreneurship and the important role immigrant entrepreneurs in America. Here is the blog post on her appearance to learn more about her.http://immigrationlawyersinseattle.com/2017/09/03/tahmina-talks-immigration-shiza-shahid-co-founder-malala-funds-sept-5th-10am-desi-1250am/

View Details

Listen to this discussion with Washington State Senate candidate Manka Dhingra. She talks about her background as a lawyer and why immigrant rights are important to her too. Below is the blogpost from her appearance. http://immigrationlawyersinseattle.com/2017/08/13/tahmina-talks-immigration-manka-dhingra-wa-state-senate-candidate-august-15th-10am-pst-desi-1250am/

View Details

In this episode aired on August 1st 2017, Tahmina talks immigration with Nikki Smith, Executive Director of the International Rescue Committee (IRC). Listen to her insightful thoughts on the invaluable contributions refugees bring to community. Here is the video of our interview:https://www.facebook.com/TahminaTalksImmigration/videos/356926084738326/

View Details

In this episode aired on July 25 2017, Tahmina Talks Immigration with Northwest Immigrant Rights Project Attorney Tim Warden Hertz. Tim discusses new law passed in Washington that allows a path to legal immigration status for children between the ages of 18 and 21. Here is the Facebook Live video link also:https://www.facebook.com/TahminaTalksImmigration/videos/356926084738326/

View Details

In this episode that aired live on Facebook first, I talk with renowned activist and immigration advocate Ali Noorani. His critically acclaimed book "There Goes the Neighborhood" takes a look back at the challenges of immigration reform and what can be done in the future. Insightful discussion!Here is the Facebook Live video link also:https://www.facebook.com/TahminaTalksImmigration/videos/328120060952262/

View Details

On July 11, 2017, Tahmina Talks Immigration with Seattle Port Commissioner Courtney Gregoire. We discuss her first hand battle with Customs and Border Protection officers when the Muslim travel ban was issued in January 2017.Here is the Facebook Live video of our chat:https://www.facebook.com/TahminaTalksImmigration/videos/349602718803996/

View Details

On this week's Tahmina Talks Immigration Radio Show I talked with Brad Feld, entrepreneur, author, blogger, & venture capitalist at Foundry Group! He discussed the work that led up to the pending International Entrepreneurial Rule & Startup Visa. We also chatted about how allowing non-citizens to start business in the United States is beneficial to the U.S. economy & much more! Here is the blog post about the show- hope you enjoy!http://immigrationlawyersinseattle.com/2017/06/26/brad-feld-renowned-entrepreneur-tahminas-show-june-27th-10am-desi-1250am/

View Details

ACLU WA's newest immigration policy guru Enoka Herat joined us on 6.20.17 to talk about immigration and law enforcement, FBI interrogations and much more. This is an invaluable discussion to learn what to do if the FBI approaches you. Here is the post on Enoka's appearance:http://immigrationlawyersinseattle.com/2017/06/19/enoka-herat-aclu-wa-tahmina-talks-immigration-june-20th-10am-desi-1250am/

View Details

Seattle City Councilwoman Lorena Gonzalez has made a huge impact on immigrant lives in the time she has been serving on the council. Recently, she was able to help pass a bill for an immigrant legal defense fund in Seattle. A true accomplishment. She joins Tahmina Talks Immigration to discuss the legal defense funds and more. Here is the blogpost about her appearance: http://immigrationlawyersinseattle.com/2017/06/12/seattle-city-councilwoman-lorena-gonzalez-tahmina-talks-immigration-june-13th-10am-pst/

View Details

On this episode, Tahmina Talks with Dr. Joseph Castleberry who shares insights from his book "The New Pilgrims". He discusses how immigrants are contributing to religious growth in America.Here is a link to our blogpost on this show: http://immigrationlawyersinseattle.com/2017/06/05/dr-joseph-castleberry-tahmina-talks-immigration-tuesday-june-6th-2017-desi-1250am/

View Details

In this episode which aired on May 30th 2017, Talks talks immigration with Roxana Norouzi from One America. With her leadership, Washington State recently passed a bill allowing for dual language education in WA public schools. She discusses the issue in details and provide great information on what this bill means for our state.Here is the blog post about the show:http://immigrationlawyersinseattle.com/2017/05/29/roxana-norouzi-director-education-integration-policy-oneamerica-talks-immigration-tahmina-may-30th-10am-pst/

View Details

In this episode which aired on May 23rd 2017, Tahmina talks immigration with Seattle Councilman Tim Burgess who helped pass a bill for an immigration legal defense fund. The fund will help those who are caught up in the immigration system particularly in view of the new administration's actions. CM Burgess shares incredible insights from his long career. A huge thank you to CM Burgess for joining me on the show.

View Details

In this episode which aired on May 2nd 2017, we chat about law enforcement and immigration specially given the new administration's executive orders. Sheriff Urquhart shares invaluable insights on the whole topic! Thank you to King County Sheriff Urquhart for joining me on Tahmina Talks Immigration.

View Details

In this episode, listen to our fascinating conversation with Dr. Meenakshi Rishi about immigration and the economy. Thank you Dr. Rishi for joining Tahmina Talks Immigration.

View Details

In this episode that aired on 4.4.17, we talk about H1b issues.

View Details

Listen to this informative discussion with Mayor Cooke of Kent, WA that aired on Desi 1250am on March 21st 2017. Mayor Cooke discusses various issues including that she has signed a proclamation that Kent is a Welcoming City. She does talk about the unfortunate events of the shooting of a Kent resident which seemed racially motivated. She said investigation was ongoing. Thank you to Mayor Cooke for taking time out of her busy schedule for joining Tahmina Talks Immigration.

View Details

In this episode, we chat with Jasmin Samy, Civil Rights Manager at CAIR-Washington State, a chapter of America’s largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization.Here is the blogpost on the show: http://immigrationlawyersinseattle.com/2017/02/20/jasmin-samy-cair-wa-tahminas-radio-show-feb-21st-10am-pst/In addition, the Facebook Live video is available at our new Facebook page.

View Details

In this episode, we talk with Manar Waheed, Former Deputy Policy Director for Immigration at the White House. She offers some invaluable insights on new administration's executive orders.

View Details

This episode is a solo show with Tahmina discussing various updates including the International parole and national interest waiver.

View Details

In this episode of Immigration with Tahmina, our special guest is Cuc Vu, Director of City of Seattle's Office of Immigrant and Refugee Affairs (OIRA). The OIRA will be holding a unique inauguration day legal clinic offering immigrants free advice for citizenship applications, know your rights and individual legal advice. This is an inspiring discussion and hope you will enjoy!

View Details

In this episode of Immigration, we discuss the importance of immigration with critically acclaimed journalist Emily Parkhurst, Editor in Chief, Puget Sound Business Journal.

View Details

In this first show of 2017, we introduce our brand new Facebook page "Immigration with Tahmina Radio Show". We also discuss a new case that revamps the laws for national interest waivers. This particular law will help entrepreneurs receive green cards easier than before.

View Details

In this episode my guest Interfaith community leader and executive director of MAPS- AMEN Aneelah Afzali discusses immigration, Muslim community issues and the problems with the creation of a potential Muslim registry. She gives guidance on what people can do given the new administration coming into office in January.Here is the blog post on the episode: http://immigrationlawyersinseattle.com/2016/12/12/interfaith-leader-aneelah-afzali-tahminas-radio-show-12132016/

View Details

In this episode, Tahmina talks with Washington State Second District Congressman Rick Larson. Congressman Larson offers much insight into immigration issues that we may see from a new administration in the new year. A huge thank you to Congressman Larson for taking the time to be on my show. It was an honor! Here is our blog post on the appearance: http://immigrationlawyersinseattle.com/2016/11/28/congressman-rick-larsen-tahminas-show-desi-1250am-112916/

View Details

Immigration & guidance on pre-January steps to protect status by Tahmina Watson

View Details

Immigration & post election thoughts on immigration by Tahmina Watson

View Details

In this episode that aired on 11/1/2016, we have our very first panel discussion on Election and Immigration. Alex Stonehill, co-founder and editor of The Seattle Globalist and Joaquin Uy, communications specialist for the City of Seattle's Office of Immigrant and Refugee Affairs joined me. We talk about the effect of immigrants on this election and the election on immigration matters. We also talk about why local elections matter for immigration issues too. The show was broadcast live on Facebook on our Watson Immigration Law page. Here is a link. http://immigrationlawyersinseattle.com/2016/11/01/video-recording-election-special-radio-show-alex-stonehill-joaquin-uy-november-1st-10am-pst-desi-1250am/

View Details

In this episode on that aired on 10/25/16, I discuss new policy released that will allow spouses of certain non-immigrant visas who are victims of abuse. The new policy will help a very vulnerable group of people. Below is a link to some more details. http://immigrationlawyersinseattle.com/2016/10/25/work-permission-abused-spouses-g-e-3-h-visa-holders-details/

View Details

In this episode that aired on 10/18/16, renowned Bangladeshi actor and director Tauquir Ahmed joins us on the phone all the way from Bangladesh. His award winning and Oscar nominated film Unnamed screened at the Seattle South Asian Film Festival 2016 this very night. Tauquir discussed why the movie is important to bringing awareness to poor working conditions in the Middle East for Bangladeshi citizens.

View Details

In this episode that aired on 10/11/16, we talk with Kiran Dhillon, Festival Director of the Seattle South Asian Film Festival 2016 held by Tasveer. Kiran shares her own immigration story with us before talking about the films that will screen at the festival. Here is the blogpost for this episode: http://immigrationlawyersinseattle.com/2016/10/10/festival-director-tasveer-ssaff-kiran-dhillon-tahminas-radio-show-101116-10am-pst/

View Details

On this episode which aired on 10/4/16, we talk to Manan Mehta, co-founder of Unshackled. We talk about immigrant entrepreneurs and the new entrepreneur parole rules. Manan also explains the application process for funding for startups from Unshackled. This is a fascinating discussion and hope you will enjoy!

View Details

In this episode, we discuss the business or art and immigration with the immensely talented Polish artist Justyna Kisielewiz. We discuss her art, inspiration and immigration journey. We have the opportunity to discuss a lesser used visa named E-1 Treaty Trader visa. Listen to this wonderfully informative interview to learn more about the business or art and immigration. This episode aired on 9/27/16.

View Details

I am thrilled that my guest on 9/13/2016 was renowned journalist Sara O’Brien from CNN Money on “Immigration with Tahmina” on Desi 1250am. Sara has been a phenomenal voice for immigrant entrepreneurs over the years and it is an absolute honor to have her on the show! She discusses the importance of stories and how awareness can bring change. Sara is a reporter at CNNMoney, covering startups, entrepreneurs, tech, and innovation. She is a graduate of Columbia University’s Graduate School of Journalism, class of 2014. Sara was a regular contributor to the New York Post Sunday Business section, and has freelanced for various publications including The New York Times, The Atlantic and The Date Report. Previously, she worked on the business side of magazines in digital and integrated marketing at Time Inc. and Us Weekly. Her primary interests include entrepreneurs, innovative startups, and the collision of tech and culture but she can’t resist the occasional story on relationship dynamics in the digital age.I am also delighted that Sarah Sumadi, Washington New Americans Program Manager from One America talks about upcoming Citizenship Day on September 17th! Citizenship Day offers free legal assistance for those applying for US citizenship.

View Details

In honor of National Welcoming Week coming up (Sept. 16-25), I asked one our state’s most respected leaders to join me on my show to talk about how she has transformed her city into one of the nation’s most welcoming cities ever. I am so thrilled my guest next on 9/20/16 was the Mayor of The City of Kent! The City of Kent of was the second city to incorporate in King County. With 138 languages spoken and a globally reflective community, the City of Kent has done much to grow with its diverse population. From it’s hiring policies to bridging the gap between government and residents-much effort has been dedicated to integrate people from all walks of life and all parts of the world. Mayor Cooke will talk about she has led this community for over 10 years in which diversity has grown significantly yet people from all parts of the globe feel welcome. Mayor Cooke and I talk diversity, immigration, #welcomingweek and much more!Suzette Cooke was elected Mayor of the City of Kent in 2005 and re-elected in both 2009 and 2013. She serves as CEO for over 600 local government employees that cover a population of nearly 125,000 and 34 square miles.During her terms as mayor, Mayor Cooke has chaired the Valley Communications Center Administration Board, the King County Flood Control Zone District Advisory Committee, Kent Firemen’s Relief and Pension Fund Board, and the South County Area Transportation Board. She is a member of the Puget Sound Regional Council Executive Committee and the Kent Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, and was appointed to King County’s Regional Transit Task Force and the Board of Health. Prior to being elected Mayor, she served as Senior Sales Executive for ESP Printing, President/CEO of the Greater Renton Chamber of Commerce, Economic Development Manager for the City of Burien, and 11 years as Executive Director of the Kent Chamber of Commerce. Mayor Cooke was also elected to the Washington State Legislature in 1992, 1994, and 1996 where she served on the budget, health care and pension policy committees, and chaired the Children and Family Services Committee. Her most notable achievement was reforming Washington State’s welfare system.On a personal note, she has two stepsons who work in medical fields, and two grandchildren. Her mother, Virginia, is a volunteer at the Kent Senior Activity Center. Her love of the outdoors and appreciation for our environment is evident in her passion for fly-fishing and backpacking. She has climbed to the summit of eight of our state’s major peaks. For entertainment, she enjoys attending our local high schools’ theater productions. “They are so professional!”A huge thank you to Mayor Cooke for taking time out of her busy schedule to join me on my radio show “Immigration with Tahmina” on Desi 1250am!

View Details

On this episode aired on September 6 2016, I am incredibly honored to have my guest Doug Rand, Assistant Director for Entrepreneurship, White House Office of Science and Technology Policy.Doug shares important statistics on immigrant contributions and how the US would benefit economically from these rules that I spoke about in detail in the previous show aired on 8/30/2016. He also shares tips on how best to formulate comments. This is an unmissable episode if you are at all involved in the startup echo system. Please share widely and ask people to comment by Octber 17!Here is a link to the blog post about Doug Rand's appearance. A huge thank you to Doug for taking time out of this busy schedule to talk to me about the new International Entrepreneur rules! http://immigrationlawyersinseattle.com/2016/09/04/doug-rand-white-house-ostp-tahminas-radio-show-talk-entrepreneur-rules/

View Details

On this episode aired on 8/30/2016, I look at the new proposed rules on international entrepreneurs in detail. You can find the rules at this link from my Watson Immigration Law blog. The deadline to comment on the new rules is October 17 2016. http://immigrationlawyersinseattle.com/2016/08/28/international-entrepreneurs-rule-detailed-summary-tahmina/

View Details

In this episode of #ImmigrationwithTahmina, I answer a question from a British citizen who emailed me from the UK. The question was " After Brexit, I'm considering my options for living in another country. What are my options to move the US?"My response includes all the options from temporary long visits to permanent residency. These options will apply to most people trying to move to the US.

View Details

In this episode, we chat with #GoodMuslimBadMuslim's Taz Ahmed about why immigrant and minority rights are important in the community and why she became an activist. Tanzila ‘Taz’ Ahmed, co-host of #GoodMuslimBadMuslim! Tanzila “Taz” Ahmed is an activist, storyteller, and politico based in Los Angeles. An electoral organizer by trade, she’s mobilized thousands of Asian American & Pacific Islanders to the polls in over seventeen different languages in the past fifteen years at various non-profit organizations, starting with founding South Asian American Voting Youth in 2004. She currently is a Campaign Strategist at the Asian American new media organizing group 18MillionRising. In 2016, Taz was honored as a White House Champion of Change for Asian American and Pacific Islander Art and Storytelling. She is cohost of The #GoodMuslimBadMuslim Podcast that has been featured in Oprah Magazine, Wired, and Buzzfeed as well as live shows recorded at South by Southwest and the White House. An avid essayist, she had a monthly column called Radical Love, was a blogger for Sepia Mutiny, has written for Truthout, The Aerogram, The Nation, Left Turn Magazine, and more. She is published in forthcoming anthology Good Girls Marry Doctors (2016) and poetry collection Coiled Serpent (2016) and was published in the anthology Love, Inshallah (2012). Her third poetry chapbook Emdash and Ellipses was published in early 2016. Taz curates Desi music at Mishthi Music where she co-produced Beats for Bangladesh and she annually makes #MuslimVDay Cards. Her artwork was featured in the shows Sharia Revoiced (2015), in Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Center’s “H-1B” (2015), and Rebel Legacy: Activist Art from South Asian California (2014).

View Details

In this episode, my guest is renowned immigration attorney Robert Pauw. We discuss one of the most interesting immigration cases of 2015- Mehta vs. DOS, aka, #VisaGate2015. This interview was also recorded on Facebook Live- here is a link: https://www.facebook.com/Watson-Immigration-Law-36327429955/

View Details

In this episode, we discuss bank loans specifically designed for immigration petitions such as citizenship and green card applications. Our guest Martin Vallen from Express Credit Union joins us to describe why these are important and how people can apply. This was our first Facebook Live recording. It was much fun - hope you will enjoy! https://www.facebook.com/Watson-Immigration-Law-36327429955/

View Details

On episode #35 of Immigration with Tahmina which aired on 7.12.16, I have the honor of chatting with Saba Nafees is a member of the White House Initiative for on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. Saba is a recipient of DACA- (deferred action for childhood arrivals- a program created by President Obama for undocumented children in the US). She is one of the first applicants of the program and a national advocate for DACA.Nafees is currently pursuing a PhD with research focused in mathematical biology at Texas Tech University after graduating in May of 2014 with a Bachelor’s in Mathematics with Highest Honors. To graduate with this distinction, she wrote an original Honors Thesis on her research. As an undergraduate, she conducted research with Dr. Sean Rice, a theoretical evolutionary biologist, through the TTU Howard Hughes Medical Institute Program. In her undergrad, she had the pleasure of founding multiple student groups such as the Mathematics Ambassadors and the first ever Define American chapter inspired by Jose Antonio Vargas to encourage DACAmented youth in West Texas. She is also at the forefronts of entrepreneurship efforts at Tech and abroad, helping lead the Texas Tech Innovation Mentorship & Entrepreneurship program and is currently involved in implementing a business plan for Tibetan refugees in India and Nepal. During the past school year, she served as the Student Government Vice President for Graduate Affairs at Texas Tech along with continuing to serve as a One Young World Ambassador.Saba talks about why DACA has been important in her life and why it is important to all Desi folks. This is a great interview with someone is an example of what immigrants have to offer in America!

View Details

In this episode, we talk about new citizenship and voting as over 100 naturalization ceremonies took place the day before on July 4th. I am also honored to speak with notable immigration attorney and Alaska Senate candidate Margaret Stock! I am proud to call her a friend and mentor and am excited at the prospect of her being a strong voice for immigration reform in the Senate. I am honored she is taking time of our busy campaign to join me on my show “Immigration with Tahmina” on Desi 1250am. Listen to Margaret discuss why she is running for a Senate seat and how she hopes to bring change to US immigration laws.

View Details

On this episode, we mention Hillary's Clinton unveiling of a Startup Visa. we are also very honored to speak with Ben Johnson, Executive Director of the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA)! The American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) is the national association of more than 14,000 attorneys and law professors who practice and teach immigration law. AILA member attorneys represent U.S. families seeking permanent residence for close family members, as well as U.S. businesses seeking talent from the global marketplace. AILA members also represent foreign students, entertainers, athletes, and asylum seekers, often on a pro bono basis. Founded in 1946, AILA is a nonpartisan, not-for-profit organization that provides continuing legal education, information, professional services, and expertise through its 39 chapters and over 50 national committees.Ben Johnson was named Executive Director of AILA in January 2016. Prior to that, he was the Director of the American Immigration Council from June 2007 and before that, he was Director of the Council’s Immigration Policy Center from February 2003. Ben has written extensively on immigration law and policy, and has appeared on National Public Radio, Fox News, BBC World News, and other television and radio programs. In 1994, he co-founded and served as the Director of the Immigration Outreach Center in Phoenix, Arizona. In 1999, he joined the staff of the American Immigration Lawyers Association as Associate Director of Advocacy, where he worked with Congress, the Administration, and federal agencies on a wide variety of immigration-related issues. Prior to his work on immigration issues, he worked as a criminal and civil trial attorney in San Diego, California. Ben is a graduate of the University of San Diego School of Law and studied international and comparative law at Kings College in London.

View Details

We are so very honored that my guest on June 21st at 10am PST on “Immigration with Tahmina” on Desi 1250am radio was Jeremy Robbins, Executive Director of the Partnership for New American Economy (PNAE)! The Partnership is one of the leading organizations in America on immigration issues. The Partnership for a New American Economy brings together more than 500 Republican, Democratic, and Independent mayors and business leaders united in making the economic case for streamlining, modernizing, and rationalizing our immigration system.Jeremy Robbins has been the Executive Director since 2012. Before joining the Partnership, he was Policy Advisor and Special Counsel to the New York Mayor’s office. Under his leadership, the PNAE has advised all level of government on immigration issues. The website is a source of information like no other. You can ‘like’ the Facebook page or follow on Twitter @renewoureconomy.Jeremy shared invaluable information about the Partnership, its efforts on immigration reform and how you can help too. Listen further to his words of wisdom and let us know if you do take action!

View Details

In this episode of ImmigrationWithTahmina on Desi1250am radio, I talk with the Deputy Mayor of Seattle Hyeok Kim. She discusses the reasons immigration is important to the City of Seattle and the current adminstration, the current programs of the City for immigrants and refugees and the upcoming Flag Day to be held on June 14th where 20 Seattle residents will become US citizens. Hope you enjoy learning valuable information about the City of Seattle's commendable efforts to help immigrants refugees.

View Details

In this episode of Immigration with Tahmina which aired on May 31, 2016, I chat with the amazing advocate Rashi Bhatnagar who discusses her efforts on work authorization for H4 visa holders. Learn about her, her efforts, the outcome and much more!

View Details

In this episode, aired on May 24th, we discuss immigration news updates.

View Details

In this episode, we are delighted to speak with our guest on "Immigration with Tahmina" on Desi 1250am -Teresa L. Fair-Field! Teresa is a local Seattle entrepreneur and business woman, owner of OT Clubhouse. She recently applied for an H1b visa in the lottery on April 1st for an employee. When she agreed to the interview, she had no idea whether she would 'win' the H1b lottery. Originally USCIS announced they would start H1b adjudications on May 16th, so we wanted to ensure we had an interview that was as relevant as possible. Tune into listen to her story to learn what the H1b lottery means for her business. You can find out whether she 'won' or not. It was indeed brave of her to agree to this blindly! Teresa_TwoWith over 20 years in the field of occupational therapy and work in both large and small heath networks, Teresa began a private practice in pediatric therapy in 2011 with a mission to improve the family experience. Teresa’s commitment to child development began when her family became a consumer of pediatric services. Her OT background and parenting experience provides a unique “I’ve been there” perspective. She opened the OT Clubhouse in 2013, and has since joined with partners in speech therapy and psychology to form Sandbox Therapy Group a collaborative care model to improve communication and outcomes with a team approach.Teresa graduated from Pacific University (1993) in Forest Grove, Oregon, earning the Outstanding Graduate in Occupational Therapy award. She spent the majority of her career in neuro-rehabilitation, and enjoys understanding sensation and behavior from a nervous system perspective. She is certified in Ayres Sensory Integration® and is qualified to deliver the SIPT assessment. Teresa is currently working on a doctorate in occupational therapy (2016) with Chatham University in Pennsylvania. Her doctoral focus is to increase parent’s sense of efficacy in managing their child’s routines through a model of coaching and support.

View Details

In this episode, we are incredibly thrilled and honored to have a renowned social entrepreneur Adnan Mahmud, founder and CEO of LiveStories on Immigration with Tahmina on Desi 1250 am on Tuesday May 10th at 10am PST. Adnan is an exemplary immigrant entrepreneur who will truly inspire you! Thank you to Adnan for taking time out of his busy schedule for joining us!AdnanAdnan Mahmud is the founder and CEO of LiveStories - a Seattle-based startup building data tools for non-data people, simplifying data analysis, visualization, and presentation for everyone. LiveStories is being used by governments and large nonprofits, like the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, government of Nigeria, and county health departments in California, to make smarter decisions. Prior to LiveStories, he founded and grew Jolkona.org, a non-profit focused on supporting up-and-coming social entrepreneurs around the world. He also worked 8 years in Microsoft where he managed the two biggest data pipelines for the company, obtaining few patents around data analysis and visualization, and ran incubation projects in Microsoft Research, contributing technologies to major Microsoft products like Office, Windows, XBOX Kinect, and Bing. Adnan is an envoy for US State Department for social entrepreneurship and youth leadership, speaking at university campuses around the world. He has been featured on TEDx, CNN, NPR, and Huffington Post.

View Details

On this episode, which aired on 4.19.16, we discuss citizenship with One America's Mallori Thompson. One America organizes Citizenship Day to assist people with their US citizenship applications. Mallori shares valuable information about the process and how to get free legal assistance.

View Details

In this episode, which aired on 4.26.16, we were honored to discuss immigration with Washington State 9th district representative Congressman Adam Smith. Congressman Smith has been a strong proponent on immigration issues. Listen to him discuss all his efforts on the issue. Thank you to Congressman Adam Smith for taking time out of his busy schedule to talk immigration with me.

View Details

In this episode, we interview Katrina Ji who is the Artistic Director of Culture Shakti Dance Company & Rajasthani Gypsy Caravan. We discuss her work and P3 visas for dancers and musicians. Katrina has appeared on several TV programs in India & the USA in addition to podcasts and magazines. She has performed with some of the worlds most famous dancers! Katrina Ji tours internationally with Rajasthani Gypsy Caravan and teaches Bollywood Dance at her studio, Culture Shakti in Seattle in addition to a variety of public and private schools. She specializes in Bollywood, Rajasthani Folk Dance & ATS® Belly Dance.

View Details

In this episode, we discuss the new STEM OPT rules that were recently released.

View Details

In this episode, we are incredibly thrilled and honored to have an amazing social entrepreneur Aurora Chisté, CEO of Hack for Big Choices on Immigration with Tahmina on Desi 1250 am on Tuesday March 8th at 10am PST.Aurora discusses life as a social entrepreneur as well as an immigrant entrepreneur in the US. She discusses the lack of visa options of people like herself. Listen to this fascinating discussion about changing lives as well as why US immigration laws need to change to keep up with modern times.

View Details

We are incredibly honored to have Jorge Barón, Executive Director of Northwest Immigrant Rights Project (NWIRP) on this episode of Immigration With Tahmina” on Desi 1250 am which aired on March 1st at 10am PST. Jorge shares information about NWIRP and the services available for people in the community. He shares tips on how to get through the phone lines. He also shares his insights on #immigrationreform as well as the Supreme Court case on #DAPA and #DACA (deferred action for parents of US citizens and green card holders). This is truly an educational episode for those who need help on immigration issues.

View Details

In today's episode we speak with Rishi Bhilwadikar, writer and producer of For Here or To Go? This is a movie close to my heart which shows the effects of the current broken immigration system. An immigrant himself, Rishi tells us about his immigrant background, why he wrote the movie, the challenges he faced as a new film writer and the funds that are needed for a theatrical screening. This is an unmissable interview for anyone interested in immigration reform.

View Details

In today's episode, we speak with notable Entertainment attorney James Taylor. In addition to his vast experience in entertainment law, he had the opportunity to help a victim of trafficking and discussed immigration issues related to that. We discuss S and T visas in this context .

View Details

In this episode we talk to Todd Schulte, Presidnt of FWD.us. A day after the Iowa primaries, Todd shares his insights on the primaries, election and immigration. Thank you to Todd for taking time out of his busy day to join us my radio show on Desi 1250 am.

View Details

In this episode, we discuss the drastic new Visa Waiver rules that revoke ESTA clearance of people who hold dual citizenship with a European country as well one of the following- Iran/Iraq/Sudan and Syria. We also provide news update on the STEM OPT extension issue- STEM OPT will be extended until May 10, 2016. We are also very honored to speak with WA State Representative Brady Walkinshaw. He is running for Congress also. His family immigrated from Cuba, he grew up in the agricultural industry and has much understanding about immigration related to these issues. I learned much from the discussion. We thank Brady for joining us and hope you will enjoy the interview.

View Details

On our second show of 2016, we talk to notable academic, entrepreneur, author and think tank Vivek Wadhwa. Wadhwa was one of the first vocal advocates for a Startup Visa in the US. His book The Immigrant Exodus was the first that discussed the reverse brain drain issue. We are honored and privileged to have had the opportunity to speak with him. I hope you will enjoy this insightful discussion. Also on this show, we report on breaking news that the Supreme Court will hear the DACA/DAPA case. The case is about allowing undocumented people work authorization through executive action. Thank you to Vivek Wadhwa for joining us! Stay tuned for next week's show which promises to be exciting also. Thanks for listening!

View Details

On our first show of 2016, we talk to Movie Director Rucha Humnbadkar about her wonderful movie For Here or To Go? A movie that depicts the problems of the broken immigration system.Coincidentally, employment-based immigration rules on I-140/AC21 were published to the Federal Register on 12/31 so Rucha's interview is even more meaningful!In today's show, we also have caller Prasad call in a with a great question on the new proposed rules. The call is specifically about what happens with an approved I-140 and what changes are coming through these rules.The proposed rules on I-140/AC21 are of utmost importance for high-skilled immigration and our next show will be dedicated to it. We welcome questions and comments. Get in touch and tune in next week!

View Details

On this episode, we discuss the laws that were changed through the budget deal signed into law by President Obama on December 18th 2015. Among the issues are the EB5 investor visa extension, religious visa extension, H1b visa increases and the visa waiver restrictions. Our famous immigrant of the day is Nordstrom in honor of Christmas shopping! Hope you enjoy learning about these updates. Happy holidays!

View Details

In this episode, our "famous immigrant(s)' are Procter and Gamble. Learn the history of the brand. Our news update is about the Seattle Office of Immigrants and Refugees Affair mention in a White House report released today, the City of Seattle's adoption of a resolution to protect the Muslim community and also reports of social media investigations that will become part of visa processing; and finally our guest is a wonderful tax lawyer Ruby Banipal of DLA Piper. She gives us a brief summary of tax issues to watch out for if you are a temporary worker in the US or a legal permanent resident or a US citizen. Hope you enjoy!

View Details

In this episode, we talk about the fast approaching TPS deadline in December for nationals of Nepal. We chat about Levi Strauss as our famous immigrant of the day. And finally, we have a great interview with Roxana Norouzi, Director of Education and Integration Policy at One America. She discusses the newly launched report on 'brainwaste' - which reports on highly educated immigrants' talents going to waste in the US and what can be done about it. The report discusses skills shortages in the US that such immigrants could fill. It is a great interview! Let us know if you are an immigrant and need help getting into a profession for which you have already trained in your home country.

View Details

In this episode we discuss White House announcements on restricting the Visa Waiver Program. Our guest notable Seattle attorney Suchi Sharma joins us on the show. She discusses the importance of being engaged in the political process and talks about her role as legal advisor to the Washington State Democratic Caucus. Below is a link with Suchi's bio. https://watsonimmigration.wordpress.com/2015/11/29/shuchi-sharma-next-guest-on-tahminas-radio-show/

View Details

On "Immigration with Tahmina Watson" on Desi1250AM on 11.24.15, we discussed the following news updates: Visa Waiver Program security enhancements and S. 2266: H–1B and L–1 Visa Reform Act of 2015 a new bill that will create restrictions on H1b and L1 visas. We also had a wonderful guest- Author and Columnist Ruchika Tulshyan. Bellevue, She discussed her personal experience on a H4 visa and the difficulties people have with visa restrictions. She also discussed her new book The Diversity Advantage: Fixing Gender Inequality In The Workplace (Forbes 2015).I hope you will enjoy this interview!

View Details

In today's show we talk to Washington State Attorney General Bob Ferguson who discusses how is protecting the community from notarios and supporting the President's executive action. In news updates, I touch upon the refugee crisis and the comprehensive vetting process that United States goes through to accept refugees.

View Details

On "Immigration with Tahmina Watson" on Desi1250AM on 11.10.15, we discussed the following news updates: DAPA/DACA injunction appeal; NY Times article discussed H1bs but really demonstrated why a Startup Visa is necessary and a GlobeandMail article from Canada that highlighted an entrepreneur who went to Canada instead of the US because the immigration system is so difficult. We also had a wonderful guest- Bellevue, WA's newest elected City Councilwoman Dr. Vandana Slatter. She discussed her immigrant background, her career and how her journey brought us to present day. Later, after the interview, she emphasized why it is important for immigrants to become citizens and why they should vote. I hope you will enjoy this interview! Here are links to the articles mentioned above: NYTimes: http://www.nytimes.com/2015/11/11/us/large-companies-game-h-1b-visa-program-leaving-smaller-ones-in-the-cold.htmlGlobeandMail (Canada):http://www.24news.ca/the-news/economic-news/176906-why-tech-startups-should-pay-closer-attention-to-developing-markets

View Details

On our show "Immigration with Tahmina Watson" on Desi1250AM which aired on 11 - 3-15, my dear friend and Executive Director of the brand new Global Entrepreneur in Residence Coalition was on the show to speak for the first time about the new Global EIR Coalition that will help immigrant entrepreneurs stay in the US.

View Details

"Immigration with Tahmina Watson" on Desi 1250AM show #2. Special guest Washington State Senator Pramila Jayapal discusses all her efforts on immigration reform and civil rights. I hope listeners will be inspired by her, her passion and hard work.

View Details

"Immigration with Tahmina Watson" on Desi 1250 AM. Show #2 aired on 10.20.15. Special guest Immigration attoney Joel Paget discusses how he helped changed law that allowed women to pass on US citizenship to their children.