The Future of Freelance Work: Visa Reforms and Global Hiring with Pavel Shynkarenko, Mellow

Episode notes

Policy headwinds are rising, but the work still needs doing. In this episode of the HRchat Podcast , host Bill Banham sits down with Pavel Shynkarenko , founder of Mellow , to unpack the ripple effects of proposed H-1B and L-1 visa reforms —and a possible 25% outsourcing levy —on the global freelance and contractor economy. Pavel has spent more than 20 years in financial and HR technology, building platforms that help freelancers access fair pay, benefits, and social protections on par with employees. He brings a pragmatic, data-informed view of how these policy changes could reshape the cost calculus for U.S. employers, HR leaders, and cross-border teams in 2025 and beyond. Together, Bill and Pavel explore how tightening U.S. visa policies could unintentionally accelerate the shift toward remote-first and distributed workforces . When companies face rising administrative costs or talent shortages at home, they often turn to Employer of Record (EOR) and Contractor of Record (COR) models to stay compliant while continuing to access top talent worldwide.