Ask Canada Immigration Lawyer Evelyn Ackah

Hosted by Evelyn Ackah

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Jun 2026

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About the show

Welcome to the Ask Canada Immigration Lawyer Evelyn Ackah podcast. I answer your questions about moving to Canada and the US for work, for family, for life.

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60 recent

June 12, 202644 min

REPLAY: Gordon Vanderleek: Wills and Estate Lawyer and Disability Advocate | Episode 97

Calgary, Alberta lawyer Gordon Vanderleek is the Founder and Chief Strategist of VanderLeek Law (and Evelyn's wills and trusts guru!). His practice focuses on solving problems and educating in the areas of estate planning, estate administration and trust law. Gordon takes pride in being compassionate and empathetic, had making a difference in people's lives during high stress times of their lives.Ackah Law recently expanded our legal services to provide wills and estate planning for newcomers to Canada. From our experience, we see that many temporary and permanent immigrants don’t understand that if they are living in Canada and unexpectedly die, if they don't have a will, the laws in the province or territory you live in will determine how your estate is divided - not necessarily the laws of their home country.Evelyn and Gordon discuss:Why estate planning is hard for many people - talking about what will happen to their assets - their things - after they are gone, and how to protect their loved ones; and why Gordion decided to practice this area of law.Why wills and estate planning is important to everyone, including immigrants.Life events and milestones that should trigger estate planning, beginning at age 18.How Canada and Alberta laws impact newcomers, and what happens when a person's wishes don't match their legal documents. How to make sure your wishes are carried out.The importance of establishing guardianship for your minor children.How Personal Directives and Power of Attorney plan for incapacitation or disabilities, which have become a more visible issue since Covid.Special trusteeships and adult guardianships that are available for adults with special needs, and how the Britney Spears conservatorship made people aware of the need to do advance planning.Are DIY wills and holographs enforceable?Estate planning for children with special needs: how to gift money and protect their financial future.

April 6, 20265 min

What’s Really Happening at the U.S. Border for Canadians

In this episode of the Ask Canada Immigration Lawyer, Evelyn Ackah podcast, Evelyn Ackah discusses a question she is hearing more frequently from clients and travellers: what is actually happening at the U.S. border right now? While the immigration rules themselves have not dramatically changed, the way those rules are being applied has shifted. Many travellers are experiencing more questioning, more secondary inspections and sometimes even refusals of entry.Evelyn highlights several key developments affecting Canadian travellers, including significant U.S. visa interview delays for Canadian permanent residents who require visas, as well as increased scrutiny of social media activity during visa applications. These factors can lead to additional questions, longer processing times and unexpected travel complications.She also explains why business travel is receiving closer attention at the border. Travellers must clearly understand the difference between entering the United States as a business visitor and performing work without authorization. In addition, strategies such as flagpoling at land borders are becoming less reliable, with officers often directing applicants to apply online or through consulates instead.Whether you travel occasionally for meetings or regularly move between Canada and the United States for business, understanding the current border environment is more important than ever. In this episode, Evelyn shares practical insight to help travellers prepare properly, avoid common mistakes and approach cross-border travel with greater clarity and confidence.

March 23, 202637 min

How Lawyers Can Attract Clients and Build Stronger Relationships with Steve Fretzin

In this episode of Ask Canada Immigration Lawyer, Evelyn Ackah speaks with Steve Fretzin, President and Founder of Fretzin, Inc. and host of the Be That Lawyer podcast, about business development for lawyers and why relationship-building remains at the heart of sustainable professional growth. Drawing on more than 20 years of coaching experience, Steve shares how he helps lawyers move away from outdated, sales-driven tactics and adopt a more authentic, consultative approach to networking, client development and long-term practice growth.The conversation explores why many lawyers struggle with sales and business development, despite the fact that building a book of business is essential for long-term career security and independence. Steve explains his “sales-free selling” philosophy, which reframes business development as problem-solving rather than pitching. He discusses the importance of asking better questions, listening actively, following up consistently and creating genuine relationships that lead to trust, loyalty and referrals over time. He also shares practical insight on client retention, effective networking, time management, delegation and how lawyers can use systems and automation to stay focused on high-value work.Whether you are a solo practitioner, a lawyer in a large firm, or a business owner looking to strengthen client relationships and grow strategically, this episode offers practical guidance on developing business in a way that feels natural, ethical and effective. It is a thoughtful discussion on how professionals can protect their future, adapt to change and build a practice rooted in trust, value and consistency.

February 6, 202637 min

Global Trade, Trust and Cross-Border Growth with Tom Hanson | Episode 94

In this episode of Ask Canada Immigration Lawyer, Evelyn Ackah speaks with Tom Hanson of Channel Architect LLC, a global trade strategist and Principal Advisor, about the deep connection between international business expansion, cross-border mobility and the systems that make global commerce work. With more than 30 years of experience across the private sector and as a former U.S. Foreign Commercial Service commercial officer, Tom shares practical insight into how companies and governments build market entry strategies, form strategic partnerships and navigate complex international procurement and investment environments.The conversation explores what it really takes for a business to expand internationally, from assessing commercial viability and scalability to building trust-based partnerships that can withstand uncertainty. Tom breaks down how he supports small to mid-sized companies through phased engagements, why due diligence in partner selection is critical, and how cultural awareness and ethical decision-making shape long-term success across different regions and industries.Whether you advise corporate clients on cross-border immigration, support global entrepreneurs or work with employers managing international growth, this episode offers valuable perspective on planning for change, protecting reputation and building partnerships that help businesses thrive in an unpredictable trade environment.

December 22, 202548 min

Leading Strong Teams in High-Stakes Workplaces with Kim Miller-Hershon

In this episode of Ask Canada Immigration Lawyer, Evelyn Ackah speaks with Kim Miller-Hershon, a leadership and organizational consultant, about the evolving challenges of managing people and building effective teams. With her extensive experience coaching executives and managers across industries, Kim brings practical strategies for improving communication, fostering authenticity, and navigating complex workplace dynamics.The conversation explores common leadership struggles, from bridging technical expertise with people skills to managing remote and hybrid teams. Kim shares actionable tips for giving feedback, addressing conflict, and creating a positive workplace culture where trust and collaboration thrive. Whether you’re a new manager, an experienced leader, or simply curious about effective leadership practices, this episode offers insights to help you lead with confidence and authenticity.Whether you lead an immigration law firm, manage international staff, or work with clients navigating cross-border transitions, this episode offers valuable perspective on building resilient teams and delivering better results in an increasingly global landscape.

September 22, 202550 min

Navigating Tariffs and Challenges for Canadian Businesses with Deborah Stern | Episode 92

In this episode of Ask Canada Immigration Lawyer, Evelyn Ackah, Evelyn speaks with Deborah Stern, a partner at Sandler, Travis and Rosenberg, about the rapidly changing world of US-Canada trade compliance. With her unique background as both a former US Customs official and current private practice attorney, Deborah brings over 18 years of expertise helping businesses navigate the complex intersection of tariffs, trade agreements and cross-border regulations.The conversation covers tariff classification fundamentals and how recent policy changes have created daily challenges for cross-border businesses. Deborah explains complex new requirements like steel content reporting and forced labour compliance, showing how modern trade extends far beyond simple customs forms. They explore how the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) intersects with current tariff policies, why setting up a US entity isn't a simple tariff solution, and the importance of supply chain transparency.Whether you're a Canadian business expanding into the United States market or curious about the intersection of immigration and international trade, this episode offers valuable insights for navigating today's cross-border business landscape.

July 4, 202542 min

How Immigration Is Reshaping Canadian Real Estate with Andrew Carros | Episode 91

In this episode of Ask Canada Immigration Lawyer, Evelyn Ackah sits down with Andrew Keros, Chief Operating Officer of Engel & Völkers Vancouver, to explore the evolving landscape of Canadian real estate. With over 23 years of experience and a background rooted in a real estate family, Andrew shares his perspective on the Vancouver market’s unique challenges, including limited housing supply, high international demand, and the impact of recent government policies like the foreign buyers' ban and changes to immigration rules.Andrew emphasizes the importance of collaboration between real estate professionals, legal experts, and immigration advisors to help international buyers navigate the complex Canadian market. He also offers thoughtful ideas to improve housing affordability, such as investing in and revitalizing rural communities across the country. Whether you're a newcomer looking to buy property or simply curious about the intersection of immigration and real estate, this episode offers valuable insights and practical advice.

May 23, 202527 min

How Immigration Helped Build Calgary’s Most Beloved Wine Bar with Phoebe Fung | Episode 90

In this episode of Ask Canada Immigration Lawyer with Evelyn Ackah, Evelyn is joined by her longtime friend and client, Phoebe Fung, the visionary founder of Vin Room, Calgary’s premier wine bar with three thriving locations—including a unique dog-friendly patio at the Calgary International Airport.Phoebe shares her inspiring story of transitioning from a successful 15-year career in the oil and gas industry to becoming an “accidental restaurateur” who followed her passion for food, wine, and dogs. From securing investor support with no restaurant experience to navigating the challenges of COVID-19, Phoebe’s resilience and innovative spirit shine through. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, an immigration advocate, or just a dog-loving foodie, this episode is packed with heart, hustle, and honest insight into building a business that’s truly rooted in community.

February 21, 202530 min

The Intersection of Immigration and Taxation with John Apuzzo

In this episode of the Ask Canada Immigration Lawyer Evelyn Ackah podcast, Evelyn welcomes John Apuzzo, an international tax leader and partner at MGO, to discuss cross-border tax strategies and financial planning for businesses and individuals navigating international taxation. Originally from Canada and now based in California, John shares his journey in international tax and his passion for simplifying complex tax structures for his clients.John has over 25 years of experience in public accounting, having worked at major firms across multiple countries. He specializes in corporate tax planning, international tax restructuring, business valuations, and helping high-net-worth individuals and businesses manage cross-border financial complexities. With extensive expertise in U.S. and Canadian tax systems, John provides valuable insights into tax treaties, restructuring strategies, and navigating the ever-changing global tax landscape.

January 17, 202540 min

Exploring Work Visas Cross-border Strategies for Professionals to Canada and the U.S. | Episode 88

On the Ask Canada Immigration Lawyer Evelyn Ackah podcast, host Evelyn Ackah shares insights from a recent webinar on navigating work visa options for Canadian professionals seeking opportunities in the United States. In this episode, Evelyn explores the visa categories and strategies that help Canadian professionals cross borders seamlessly. She covers everything you need to know about the implications of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), the TN Visa for skilled professionals, and other work visa options like the L1A and E1. Whether you're professional planning to work in the U.S. or an employer seeking to understand cross-border immigration solutions, this episode offers practical guidance and expert advice. Join Evelyn as she breaks down visa requirements, discusses application strategies and provides tips for a smooth border-crossing experience.