America is a nation of immigrants. Each week we dive into the stories of those who have left their homes behind and chosen the United States as their new home. From inspiring stories of resilience and adaptation to profound stories of dreams and hardships, each episode provides an intimate look into the experiences of those who have crossed lands and oceans in pursuit of a better life.
As we navigate their backgrounds, traditions, and inspirations, listeners gain a richer understanding of what it means to be part of this great nation and to pursue the American dream.
Join us in exploring the essence of America—one immigrant story at a time.
In this episode, we sit down with Charlie Schmidt, a civil rights attorney and newly elected member of the Virginia House of Delegates. Charlie shares his journey from the ACLU to representing District 77, where he continues his mission to bridge the "access to justice gap" for Virginia’s most vulnerable residents.
We dive deep into the founding of the Richmond Community Legal Fund, a grassroots initiative providing direct legal and financial support to immigrants navigating an increasingly complex system. From skyrocketing filing fees to the constant threat of ICE enforcement, Charlie explains why community solidarity is more important now than ever.
What We Discuss:
From Advocacy to Action: The transition from civil rights law to legislative power in the House of Delegates.
The Richmond Community Legal Fund: How this fund supports families with legal fees, bonds, and basic necessities.
Barriers to Justice: The impact of rising immigration filing fees and how they are used as a deterrent.
State vs. Federal: Protecting Virginia’s neighbors from federal encroachment and ICE targeting.
Integrated Advocacy: Combining education, lobbying, and legal action to create systemic change.
Whether you’re an advocate for immigrant rights, a Richmond local, or simply curious about how local government can protect its citizens, this episode offers a vital look at the intersection of law, politics, and community.
Resources Mentioned in This Episode:
If you need legal assistance or want to learn more about the processes discussed today, you can find these links in our show notes:
Book a Consultation: tingen.law/r/qCO (https://tingen.law/r/qCO)
Download our Family-Based Green Card Guide: tingen.law/green-card-guide (https://www.tingen.law/green-card-guide/)
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19 Jan 2026
Episode 8: Bryce & Holda | Nations of Immigrants
In this powerful episode of the Nation of Immigrants podcast, I sit down with Holda and her husband Bryce to discuss their real-life experience navigating the U.S. immigration system through marriage. Holda shares her journey—coming to the U.S. at just 13 to pursue her dream of becoming a dancer, living in the shadows for years, and finally adjusting her status after marrying Bryce. From the anxiety leading up to their green card interview to the overwhelming relief of finally being approved, this episode is filled with the honesty, hope, and heart that define so many immigrant stories.
We cover various topics, including:
- What it's like to come to the U.S. on a tourist visa as a child
- The stress of living undocumented, even with DACA
- How marriage to a U.S. citizen changed the game
- What actually happens at the green card interview (including tough questions)
- How it feels to finally be seen and safe
Whether you're considering marriage-based immigration, find yourself in a similar situation, or simply want to better understand what your friends, neighbors, or loved ones may be experiencing—this episode is for you.
📅 Book a consultation with our team: https://tingen.law/r/qCO
📥 Download our Family-Based Green Card Guide: https://www.tingen.law/green-card-guide/
25 Apr 2025
He Was Told to Give Up; Instead, He Got a Green Card
Host Jacob interviews Raymond Kondo, who recounts his arduous but ultimately successful journey from Hungary to becoming a green card holder in the United States through education and perseverance.
Who has been a guest on Nation of Immigrants
Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.
Raymond Kondo
Aldo Zelada Alfaro
Israel
Katherine Rivas Lemos
Roque
Podcast Authority Score: 22 / 100
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45
Social presence
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YouTube
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Engagement
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