The H-1B Wake-Up Call: Why CHROs Must Act Now to Protect Global Talent

In this episode, I unpack the seismic shift caused by the new $100,000 H-1B visa fee and what it means for CHROs, global workforce leaders, and HR executives. I’m not a lawyer, but as someone deeply embedded in both the HR and immigration worlds, I’ll share a clear, strategic playbook to help companies turn this crisis into an opportunity.

We’ll cover the five core threats CHROs must confront — from talent pipeline risk and employer brand erosion to DEI impacts, legal compliance, and wasted budget spend. More importantly, I’ll outline actionable steps for building extraordinary talent pathways through O-1 and EB-1 visa programs, creating psychological safety, and protecting your organization’s most innovative talent.

This isn’t just about visas — it’s about future-proofing your workforce, protecting diversity, retaining innovators, and staying ahead of competitors who will poach your best people. If you’re a CHRO, CFO, or executive navigating this moment, this episode provides the roadmap to lead with strategy, empathy, and courage.