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Coming To America

Coming To America

Written by: Ed Halla
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Welcome to "Coming to America," a podcast that explores the extraordinary journeys of individuals who left their homelands behind to chase the American dream. In a world where "America" symbolizes not just a nation but a profound idea and a beacon of hope, we delve into the personal narratives of immigrants who embarked on an incredible adventure. In this imperfect union known as the USA, people from diverse backgrounds and cultures find common ground, forge new identities, and contribute to the rich tapestry of American life. Through intimate conversations and heartfelt accounts, we bring you the experiences, challenges, triumphs, and aspirations of those who dared to dream beyond borders. Join us as we celebrate the resilience, diversity, and shared humanity that define the American story. From the pursuit of freedom to the pursuit of happiness, "Coming to America" reveals the universal essence of the American dream and the unique journeys that make it a reality. Careers Economics Personal Success Social Sciences Travel Writing & Commentary
Episodes
  • E35 - South Korean in the USA

    E35 - South Korean in the USA
    Oct 20 2026
    In Episode 35 of Coming to America, I sit down with Tom Sollitt, a South Korean international adoptee who was adopted at 18 months old and raised in Oregon. Tom's immigrant story is very different from most we've featured. He didn't choose to come to America, doesn't have traceable records of his biological parents, and grew up separated from the language and culture of the country where he was born. We talk about the complicated history of international adoption from South Korea, Tom's involvement with adoptee activism, and the ethical concerns he and other adoptees have raised about the international adoption system and access to their own records. Tom also shares what happened when he returned to South Korea as an adult and lived there from 2009 to 2016 — teaching English, experiencing Korean culture firsthand, and discovering what it felt like to blend into a society where nobody automatically saw him as different. Today, Tom is a brand strategist, community events producer, and candidate for Portland City Council District 3. We discuss his approach to local politics, listening to community voices, and even the debate over 39th Avenue vs. Cesar Chavez Boulevard.
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    45 mins
  • E34- Burundian in the USA

    E34- Burundian in the USA
    Sep 29 2026

    Wilson Kubwayo is the founder of wksocial, a thriving social media marketing agency that is revolutionizing the way businesses engage and attract their target audience. With years of experience in both the nonprofit and for-profit sectors, and an MBA in Marketing and Business Innovation, Wilson has developed a deep understanding of digital strategy and community engagement, making him the go-to expert for businesses looking to build a strong offline and online presence.

    At WKSocial, Wilson leads a team of digital marketing experts and web developers who create customized experiences that drive growth, engagement, and revenue. Their proven techniques have helped countless businesses and organizations increase their online presence, improve their overall engagement, and drive more sales.

    Wilson's passion for business innovation and implementing effective marketing strategies has established wksocial as a trusted partner for businesses and organizations looking to succeed in the digital age. With his unwavering commitment to delivering results, Wilson and his team at wksocial are dedicated to helping businesses attract and connect with their target audience.

    https://wk.social/
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    50 mins
  • E33- Norwegian in the USA

    E33- Norwegian in the USA
    Aug 18 2026

    In this episode of Coming to America, the host talks with Grace Moen, an Oslo-born freelance journalist and event producer who moved to Portland with her parents in 1991. They discuss Norway’s geography and economic model (fjords, hydropower, oil policy, and the sovereign wealth fund), social trust, and the country’s push for electric vehicles. Grace shares how her American mother and Norwegian father built a Norwegian-speaking home in Oregon, spent summers in Norway, and navigated the “in-between” identity of immigrants. She reflects on living in San Francisco during the tech boom, returning to Portland for community and arts, and how Oslo invested in transit and public waterfronts. Grace also describes earning an online Harvard journalism master’s during the pandemic, focusing on prison healthcare, and contrasts U.S. punishment-driven incarceration with Norway’s rehabilitation-centered prison design. The episode closes with ways to connect through Grieg Lodge, scholarships, and Portland’s May 17th Constitution Day celebration.

    https://www.grieglodge.org/

    https://www.gracemoen.com
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    40 mins
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