Legal Talk Network - Law News and Legal Topics

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The premier provider of podcasts for attorneys and legal professionals. Over 15 shows on varied topics highlight important issues, current events, technology and the future of law. Legal Talk Network's shows are hosted by leading industry professionals and feature high profile guests.

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    • Aug 27, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • daily NEW EPISODES
    • 33m AVG DURATION
    • 3,454 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from Legal Talk Network - Law News and Legal Topics

    2400 Reasons To Brush Up That Resume

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 27, 2025 35:12


    We know where some of those pro bono payola hours are going. ----- Be prepared to be on the clock a lot longer at King & Spalding, where the firm has introduced a 2400 hour “productive” time target. In other words, attorneys will have to figure out how to describe 2400 hours worth of work to the firm's billing software every year. This seems to follow the overarching retreat from the work from home era, which also made news this week with a firm announcing a new office mandate… but just for some associates. Justice Jackson drew upon a generational touchstone to succinctly describe the Supreme Court majority's jurisprudence. And a pair of the spineless firms are providing free legal services to the Commerce Department. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    EP 916- The Power of Admitting When You're Wrong with Judge Jessica Kruse

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 27, 2025 57:57


    We all make mistakes, but what do you do when you make one in court? Judge Jessica Kruse reminds us that how you admit your mistake can often be more important than the error itself. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Katrina's Lasting Impact on Legal Aid 20 Years Later

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 26, 2025 49:31


    Twenty years after the disaster, a Louisiana lawyer tells how Hurricane Katrina changed civil legal services forever on Talk Justice. Southeast Louisiana Legal Services is the largest nonprofit civil legal aid provider in the state, serving 22 parishes from seven offices, with the largest office in New Orleans. In 2005, before tragedy struck, Laura Tuggle had been a staff attorney in SLLS' housing law unit. At the time, legal services related to natural disasters were not a part of the conversation at all. Now, she is Executive Director at SLLS and disaster legal services have come a long way. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Niche Marketing, a Podcast About Marketing Through Podcasting

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 26, 2025 42:23


    Did your firm “set and forget” its marketing strategy? Today's marketing has evolved beyond Google ads and billboards. Finding new, niche channels can tap new markets. Imagine a firm still relying solely on a Yellow Pages ad, that would be crazy. Times change. Guest Carrolee Moore is the CEO and chief strategist at the Podcast Pitching Society, a firm dedicated to matching experienced experts to influential podcasts hungry for guests. Connect to listeners in your target audience, listeners who don't know (yet) that they want to work with you. And pay you.  Moore helps clients stand out as thought leaders, experts, and trend setters. If you've been listening to The Un-Billable Hour (celebrating its 200th episode right here), you know the value of podcasts. Maybe you've been that captive audience listening on your commute or your morning jog. Learn to become a sought-after guest and to turn those appearances into revenue.  These are tips some traditional marketing agencies don't want you to hear. Don't hide your business or your expertise. You have wisdom to share, so get out there and shout. Reach new audiences that want to hear from you and hire you. Ask us anything for the Community Table. Leave us a question online   Join the next Community Table discussion live! Always the third Thursday of the month at 3pm Eastern Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Expert Timing: When to Retain Your Expert

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 26, 2025 29:42


    When do you need to start thinking about finding and retaining your expert witnesses as cases progress through the litigation process? Timing is a critical part of your strategy. Often, it's “the earlier, the better.” Guest Monica Poole is the director of expert witness services at Round Table Group, a national firm that helps litigators connect with trusted and vetted expert witnesses. Poole explains how the best experts can be hard to find, have busy schedules, and can help plot strategies from the beginning so you avoid dead ends and focus your energy. From the plaintiff's side, the more complex the case the more important it is to start early. Do you truly have a case? An expert can help decide if a case is worth litigating. From the defense side, an early start can be valuable when a case demands an expert in narrow, niche fields. In many cases, attorneys are racing the clock with looming court deadlines. Not all experts are equal. The best not only provide technical input but also help craft discovery demands, decipher provided materials, and skillfully explain complex topics in layman's terms to a judge and jury.Knowing when, and how, to engage the right expert is a critical part of every case. Hear how working with a service such as the Round Table Group can help build and present a case and drive it to a successful conclusion. Resources: Round Table Group American Bar Association American Bar Association Litigation Section Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    timing retain poole expert timing
    Leadership in Action: How Bar Involvement Shapes Legal Careers

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 25, 2025 29:11


    In this collaborative episode from the National Conference of Bar Presidents' Leading the Bar podcast and the Chicago Bar Association's @theBar podcast, host Amanda Arriaga talks with Dan Cotter, Trisha Rich, and Jonathan Amarilio about the impact of bar leadership on their professional lives. The conversation explores how bar associations serve as a springboard for career development, mentorship, and service to the legal community. From initial involvement to holding top leadership positions, each guest offers insights into why giving back through bar service has been both personally and professionally meaningful. Dan Cotter just completed his term as President of the National Conference of Bar Presidents and is a Past President of the Chicago Bar Association.  Trisha Rich is the First Vice President of the Chicago Bar Association and served as co-host of the @theBar Podcast for many years.  Jonathan Amarilio is Treasurer of the Chicago Bar Association and co-founded the @theBar Podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Fresh Voices on Legal Tech with Bridget McCormack

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 22, 2025 49:01


    Is AI the technology that will finally force lawyer tech competence? With rapid advances and the ability to address numerous problems and pain points in our legal systems, AI simply can't be ignored. Dennis & Tom welcome Bridget McCormack to discuss her perspectives on current AI trends and other exciting new tech applications in legal spaces. Bridget also talks us through her fascinating career path and current projects.  As always, stay tuned for the parting shots, that one tip, website, or observation that you can use the second the podcast ends. Have a technology question for Dennis and Tom? Call their Tech Question Hotline at 720-441-6820 for the answers to your most burning tech questions. Show Notes: Hard Fork Podcast Ethan Mollick's Blog Adam Unikowsky's Blog Seats.aero - Home  Personal Strategy Compass | DennisKennedy.Blog   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Community-Based Legal Solutions for Everyday Problems, with Rebecca Sandefur & Matthew Burnett

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 21, 2025 39:29


    Most people facing legal problems don't see them as legal at all—they see them as life problems with landlords, employers, or benefits agencies. That disconnect leaves millions without meaningful help, even when lawyers or courts are available.  In this episode, Zack Glaser talks with Professor Rebecca Sandefur (Arizona State University, American Bar Foundation) and Matthew Burnett (Georgetown Law, ABF) about their research on community justice workers and why people-centered solutions may be the key to closing the justice gap.  They explore how community justice workers operate in Alaska and beyond, why legal help doesn't always have to come from lawyers, and how rules around unauthorized practice of law are evolving. You'll hear evidence that trained non-lawyers can be just as effective—sometimes more so—than attorneys in resolving critical issues like housing or benefits.  Rebecca and Matthew also discuss what “success” really means: scalable, sustainable programs that meet people where they are, in their own communities, in their own language. And they argue that broadening access to justice isn't just about legal services—it's about strengthening democracy itself.  This episode is for lawyers, policymakers, and innovators who want to reimagine how legal help is delivered—and build a justice system that actually works for the people it's meant to serve.  Additionally, Zack and Stephanie talk about the upcoming ClioCon 2025 in Boston, MA. Check out the conference and get your tickets at cliocon.com. Use the code “LawyeristxClioCon” for a $300 discount on your ticket.    Listen to our other episodes on Access To Justice:  #129: The Business of Public Access to Law, with Tim Stanley   Apple | Spotify | LTN  #228: The Real Access-to-Justice Problem and How We Might Solve It, with Rebecca Sandefur  Apple | Spotify | LTN  #423: Bridging the Access to Justice Gap with Technology, with Sateesh Nori  Apple | Spotify | LTN  #440: A Path to Meaningful Regulations, with Rebecca Sandefur  Apple | Spotify | LTN  If today's podcast resonates with you and you haven't read The Small Firm Roadmap Revisited yet, get the first chapter right now for free! Looking for help beyond the book? See if our coaching community is right for you.    Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com.    Chapters/Timestamps:  00:00 – Fall & ClioCon in Boston05:24 – Meet Rebecca Sandefur & Matthew Burnett06:50 – A People-Centered Justice Approach11:08 – Community Justice Workers Explained15:55 – Legal Help Without Lawyers20:31 – What Success Really Looks Like25:23 – State Models & Next Steps34:30 – Scaling Justice & Strengthening Democracy38:49 – Final Takeaways  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    EP 617- Ten Pitfalls In Client Prep Part Two

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 20, 2025 20:33


    If you just prep your client an hour before their depo, you are doing them a disservice. Tune infor our final tips on how to improve your client's depo. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Need to sharpen your legal writing? 10th Circuit Court judge shares his tips | Rebroadcast

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 20, 2025 33:59


    As summer winds down and school beckons, we're looking back in our archives and assigning some back-to-school reading—grown-up style. In this episode, Judge Robert Bacharach shares insights from his book on the science of persuasive legal writing and why judges love to talk about language. —-- There's plenty of conventional wisdom about what makes a good legal brief or court opinion. Judge Robert E. Bacharach of the Denver-based 10th Circuit Court of Appeals says that when judges socialize, their conversations often devolve into discussions about language and pieces of writing they enjoy or revile. But Bacharach decided he wanted to dive deeper, to see what the science of psycholinguistics could teach lawyers and judges about how written words persuade an audience. The result was his new book, Legal Writing: A Judge's Perspective on the Science and Rhetoric of the Written Word, published by the ABA. Legal Writing is a slim volume, but it's packed with tips. It considers details as microscopic as a serif on a letter and as macroscopic as how to create an outline for an argument. In this episode of the Modern Law Library podcast, Bacharach chats about his own writing process; shares his top takeaways from the psycholinguists he consulted; and offers his advice for young litigators looking to hone their skills.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    The Sandwich Is Mightier Than The Sword

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 20, 2025 33:14


    Law firms get some worrying numbers from last quarter. ----- The new D.C. folk hero who threw a sandwich at Trump's surge publicity stunt turned out to be a DOJ attorney. He's been fired because this administration will not stand for disrespecting law enforcement... unless they're trying to kill Capitol police officers on January 6. Meanwhile, the legal industry enjoyed a muted quarter. Are they preparing to batten down the hatches for a recession? Supreme Court begins moving the pieces into place to tear down Obergefell. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Celebrating 75 Years of NCBP

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 18, 2025 38:25


    In this special episode of Leading the Bar, we celebrate 75 years of the National Conference of Bar Presidents with outgoing president Dan Cotter and incoming president Patrick Palace. Host Amanda Arriaga leads a conversation about the evolving role of bar associations and the enduring mission of NCBP to empower, connect, and inspire legal leaders. They explore the evolving challenges and opportunities facing bar leaders today—from defending the rule of law amid growing politicization to bridging generational divides and embracing innovation. Dan and Patrick share candid insights on leadership, community-building, and how bar associations can remain vital in our rapidly changing legal landscape.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    bar national conference dan cotter patrick palace
    #573: From Courtroom to Community: Strengthening Your Support Network, with Kat Vellos

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 14, 2025 27:41


    Learn how to overcome busyness, start meaningful conversations, and build lasting adult friendships that enrich both your personal and professional life. In this episode, Stephanie Everett talks with Kat Vellos, author of We Should Get Together: The Secret to Cultivating Better Friendships, about practical ways to form new connections, deepen existing relationships, and create a sense of community. You'll discover strategies for moving beyond small talk, making the most of your time, and using Kat's four “seeds of connection” framework to help relationships thrive.  Kat shares research-backed insights on why friendships matter for well-being, how to integrate connection into your daily life without adding more to your to-do list, and ways to authentically connect with neighbors, colleagues, and acquaintances. Whether you're looking to expand your circle, reconnect with old friends, or foster deeper ties in your professional network, this conversation offers actionable ideas you can start using today.  Listen to our other episodes on Careers & Professional Development.    Episode #572 – Practical Courage Skills Every Lawyer Needs, with Jim Detert (leadership and professional growth) Apple | Spotify | LTN  Episode #567 – From Quiet to Confident: Redefining Success as an Introverted Lawyer, with Heidi Brown (confidence-building for career success) Apple | Spotify | LTN  Episode #564 – The Gift in the Struggle: Leveraging Emotional Intelligence for Growth Apple | Spotify | LTN  Episode #520 – The Truth About Lawyer Self‑Care: Prioritize or Suffer (personal well-being integral to professional longevity) Apple | Spotify | LTN    If today's podcast resonates with you and you haven't read The Small Firm Roadmap Revisited yet, get the first chapter right now for free! Looking for help beyond the book? See if our coaching community is right for you.  Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com.    Links from the episode:    Learn More about LabCon  We Should Get Together: The Secret to Cultivating Better Friendships    Chapters:  00:56 – Lab Con: Hands-On Business Building for Lawyers  04:43 – Meet Kat Vellos: Author & Friendship Expert  08:47 – Why Adults Have Fewer Close Friends Today  13:44 – Finding Time for Friends & the “Seeds of Connection”  16:20 – How to Meet Neighbors and Build Local Ties  18:53 – Moving Beyond Small Talk with Meaningful Questions  22:49 – Using Conversation Prompts to Connect at Work  26:30 – Committing to Local Friendships & Staying Connected  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Strategic Shifts: How Kristen Rizzo Transitioned from Litigator to Full-Time Mediator | First Flight #7

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 14, 2025 51:50


    When is the right time to rebrand your legal practice and how do you actually pull it off? In this episode of New Solo's First Flight series, Adriana Linares talks with Kristen Rizzo, a former employment litigator who built a thriving solo practice before making a bold, calculated shift to mediation and impartial workplace investigations. Kristen shares how she planned her transition from Rizzo Law to Rizzo Resolution, the value of becoming a subject-matter expert, and how she used branding, visibility, and pro bono work to launch a neutral practice with intention. Adriana is later joined by ALPS Insurance's Rio Laine to explore how preparation, professional boundaries, and proper coverage help lawyers lower risk during big career pivots.   Hear the original episode with Kristin Rizzo  Learn more about ALPS Insurance.  Receive email notifications every time we release a new episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    How the NCBE will move the NextGen bar exam to personal computers

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 13, 2025 44:00


    For decades, the Uniform Bar Examination has been old school, with bar candidates using paper-and-pencil exam books. But starting with the first administration of the NextGen UBE next year, the test will be entirely conducted on the examinees' personal computers. The ABA Journal's Julianne Hill talks with Kara Smith, the National Conference of Bar Examiners' chief product officer. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    EP 915- Estate Planning Strategies with Katie Krispin

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 13, 2025 41:12


    Estate planning attorney Katie Krispin discusses how to protect and preserve your client's settlement, and your own future. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Why Corporate Lawyers are Invested in the Legal Services Corporation

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 12, 2025 29:28


    Corporate counsels discuss the private sector's role in expanding access to civil legal services for Americans who cannot afford an attorney on Talk Justice. This conversation was recorded at LSC's Detroit forum on July 15. The guests discuss how collaboration, innovation and leadership are key to expanding access to justice, and how private businesses can contribute to efforts to provide civil legal assistance for everyday Americans. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Community Table: Live From InfoTrack Legal Up Conference

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 12, 2025 28:55


    In this episode's discussions around the Community Table: Growth is the big issue firms repeatedly face. Set reasonable expectations and know what you want. Is it revenue growth? Why? Is it a lifestyle? What does that look like? Growth without a destination in mind is a fool's errand. As Christopher says, “Clarity of purpose aligns everything.” It's vital to start planning for the future when you know your firm is at capacity, but you just can't justify hiring more staff (yet). You feel pressure to expand, but you're afraid of overextending. Make a detailed plan, don't guess, and trust the process. Burnout. There's no reason or excuse for it. Burnout stems from unreasonable expectations for yourself and others. Know your limits. Running yourself into the ground to meet unreasonable demands helps no one. Not you, and not your clients. Mentioned in This Episode: Ask us anything for the Community Table. Leave us a question online Join the next Community Table live. What's on your mind? InfoTrack InfoTrack Legal Up 2025 Clio Legal Trends Report Cliocon 2025 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Foreseeable Use- From a Risk Management and Safety Perspective

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 12, 2025 20:16


    Expert Service Provider Janine McCartney from HHC Safety Engineering Services and HHC Safety Consulting Services, Corporation addresses foreseeable use analysis and what methods a manufacturer uses in determining product hazards. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Record Retention Guidance for Your Law Firm

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 11, 2025 37:00


    Law firms deal with a mountain of sensitive documents and communications, so knowing how to manage them appropriately—and ethically—is a must for every attorney. Molly Ranns and JoAnn Hathaway welcome Alecia Chandler to discuss how to develop a robust records retention policy tailored to your law firm. Alecia guides lawyers through the process of creating a retention policy that can be customized to their practice area, including considerations for differing document retention requirements in specific areas of the law. Learn more: Ethics: Record Retention Kit - State Bar of Michigan  Alecia Chandler is an attorney and Professional Responsibility Programs Director at the State Bar of Michigan. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Fresh Voices on Legal Tech with Bridgette Carr

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 8, 2025 43:38


    What we do as lawyers and judges is deeply human and deeply connected to our communities—so how does technology fit into that perspective? Dennis and Tom welcome Bridgette Carr to share her insights on technology training, AI, and the use of modern tools to solve legal problems and bolster the communities we serve. Drawing from her work with law students and clinical research, Bridgette explores the exciting ways AI and tech can advance the practice of law and improve access to justice. As always, stay tuned for the parting shots, that one tip, website, or observation that you can use the second the podcast ends. Have a technology question for Dennis and Tom? Call their Tech Question Hotline at 720-441-6820 for the answers to your most burning tech questions. Bridgette Carr is a clinical professor at Michigan Law and co-directs its Human Trafficking and Immigration Clinic. Show Notes: Waterproof Kindle - The Ultimate combination of High Tech and Low Tech NotebookLM adds featured notebooks from The Economist, The Atlantic, and others | TechCrunch Personal Strategy Compass | DennisKennedy.Blog   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    #572: Practical Courage Skills Every Lawyer Needs, with Jim Detert

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 7, 2025 34:16


    Learn how to navigate difficult conversations, manage risk, and lead with integrity in legal settings by building courage as a practical skill. In this conversation, Stephanie Everett is joined by Jim Detert, professor at UVA's Darden School of Business and author of Choosing Courage: The Everyday Guide to Being Brave at Work.  Together, they explore why speaking up at work is so hard, how fear and stress shape behavior, and what lawyers can do to build confidence over time. Jim introduces tools like the “courage ladder” to help professionals take small, strategic steps toward more effective and values-aligned leadership.  Legal professionals will gain:  Skills to manage fear and prepare for high-stakes conversations  A framework for building everyday workplace courage  Insight into the cost of silence in legal practice  Guidance on how to align personal values with professional conduct Ideal for lawyers, firm leaders, and legal professionals who want to take more intentional action in their work and leadership.    Listen to our other episodes on personal leadership:   Episode 491: Crafting Your Purpose-Driven Leadership Vision, with Leticia DeSuze Apple | Spotify | LTN  Episode 494: How to Stop Procrastination and Conquer Your To-Do List, with Paul Unger Apple | Spotify | LTN  Episode 499: Conquering Self‑Doubt, with Tim Atler Apple | Spotify | LTN  Episode 508: From Retreat to Rebrand, with Patricia Mancabelli Apple | Spotify | LTN    If today's podcast resonates with you and you haven't read The Small Firm Roadmap Revisited yet, get the first chapter right now for free! Looking for help beyond the book? See if our coaching community is right for you.  Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com.    Chapters/Timestamps:  0:00 – Contranyms & Clarity in Legal Language  2:39 – Meet Jim Detert: Leadership Professor & Author of Choosing Courage  3:18 – Why Speaking Up at Work Feels So Hard  4:56 – Courage Is Not a Personality Trait: Debunking the Myths  6:28 – Practicing Bravery Like a Skill: The Importance of Reps  7:30 – Fear, Physiology, and Mindset: What's Really Holding You Back  10:40 – From Performance to Growth: Reframing Stress and Risk  13:18 – How to Start Tough Conversations Without Fluff  16:39 – When Courage Gets Risky: Speaking Up in Politicized Professions  20:20 – Values vs. Aspirations: What Do You Really Stand For?  26:51 – The Long-Term Costs of Staying Silent  28:49 – Building a Courage Ladder: Start Small, Scale Up  32:34 – First Steps to Practicing Everyday Courage  33:34 – Final Reflections: Leading with Bravery at Work    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Landman versus Reality: A Real Look at Oil, Power & Property in Texas

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 7, 2025 26:18


    How do Texas mineral rights and the laws governing oil, gas, and other natural resources truly function? The recent TV series "Landman" offers a dramatic portrayal of the politics and power dynamics of the West Texas oilfields, but what is the actual reality? Rocky Dhir discusses the oil industry's portrayal on the show with attorney J. Byron (Trace) Burton, III. They examine the laws governing Texas' natural resources and their impacts on both oil companies and landowners.   Byron (Trace) Burton, III is a Partner at Uhl Fitzsimons and Immediate Past Chair of the State Bar of Texas' Oil, Gas, and Energy Resources Section. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    The Bar Exam Death Drive Becomes Dangerously Literal

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 6, 2025 30:27


    And Coldplay and pierogis. ----- A woman went into cardiac arrest during the New York bar exam. Thankfully, the administrators responded swiftly. JUST KIDDING! They yelled at other examinees to be quiet and keep working on the test while they deliberated about calling for emergency assistance, according to multiple witnesses. The woman survived, but the bar exam's unwillingness to admit its mistakes expose the rotten incentives of this stupid, unnecessary test. The Coldplay jumbotron affair sparks litigation rumors... which might be the only idea worse than taking your affair to a concert. And Alan Dershowitz is very angry that no one will sell him a pierogi. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    EP 616- Ten Pitfalls in Client Depo Prep Part One

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 6, 2025 36:07


    Your client has a story to tell, but how they tell it may determine whether or not you win the case. Create the best possible impression by avoiding these pitfalls in your client's deposition. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    James Patterson dishes on his new legal thriller, ‘The #1 Lawyer' | Rebroadcast

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 6, 2025 37:31


    With a new legal thriller on the horizon, we're revisiting James Patterson's 2024 interview about #1 Lawyer. The bestselling author shares how he builds courtroom suspense and what makes a legal story truly gripping. —-- James Patterson has written bestsellers in many genres. But as he tells the ABA Journal's Lee Rawles in this episode of The Modern Law Library, he has always been fascinated by legal thrillers, courtroom dramas and crime novels. He even considered becoming a lawyer, before his literary career took off. In his newest release, The #1 Lawyer, James Patterson partnered with co-author Nancy Allen to tell the story of Stafford Lee Penney, a criminal defense attorney in Biloxi, Mississippi, who's never lost a case. But after handing a high-profile murder trial involving the son of a mobster, Penney finds himself on the other side of the bench as a defendant himself, charged with murdering his own wife. Patterson has written and co-written more than 300 books, including bestselling series like Alex Cross, Women's Murder Club and Maximum Ride. He had some writing tips for attorneys, particularly on how to work collaboratively. As Patterson tells listeners in the podcast, he is open about working with other writers on many of his books, and he finds tools like outlining absolutely essential. He also shares with Rawles how he thinks co-writers should handle interpersonal communication while working together. Patterson says one of the major benefits of working with co-authors is pulling from their experiences to make his books more accurate and true to life. When he wrote The President is Missing with Bill Clinton, the former president could tell Patterson the inside details of how a Secret Service detail worked. When he wrote Run, Rose, Run with Dolly Parton, she walked him through the production cycle for a song. Allen, who conducted more than 30 jury trials as a prosecutor in Missouri and taught law for 15 years at Missouri State University, contributed her firsthand courtroom experience to The #1 Lawyer. Patterson says they worked to make everything as accurate as possible—while still allowing for a good story. It's the pair's second book together, following a previous standalone novel, Juror #3. In this episode of The Modern Law Library, Patterson shares some of his favorite law-related pop culture picks; news about new and ongoing projects; and describes a very special birthday event with Dolly Parton. He also discusses how his children's series Maximum Ride got caught up in Florida book bans in 2023. For fans of Patterson's breakout success, the Alex Cross series launched in 1993 with Along Came a Spider, the author shares updates about what's next for the intrepid detective—including details about the upcoming Amazon Prime TV series Cross, starring Aldis Hodge. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Getting Involved, Giving Back: Bar Leaders Share Their Stories

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 6, 2025 30:36


    In this special joint episode presented by the Chicago Bar Association and the National Conference of Bar Presidents, host Amanda Arriaga speaks with Trisha Rich, Jon Amarilio, and Dan Cotter about their experiences in bar association leadership. Participation in state or local bar associations can offer valuable opportunities for connection, community, and professional development. Trisha, Jon, and Dan each share their journeys from bar membership to leadership, highlighting the rewarding experiences and growth that come with active involvement in the bar. Trisha Rich is First Vice President of the Chicago Bar Association and co-host of the @theBar Podcast. Jonathan Amarilio is Treasurer of the Chicago Bar Association and co-founder of the @theBar Podcast.  Dan Cotter is President of the National Conference of Bar Presidents and a Past President of the Chicago Bar Association. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    EP04: Nurturing a client's courage

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 5, 2025 22:24


    An attorney asks The Case Doctors how to handle a situation where a client is terrified of confronting the person who harmed them in court, and how to help them find the courage to do so to ensure they don't settle for much less than they deserve? In hot topics, how about that case out of Florida where a jury awarded a family $17 million after an aerosol can left behind by contractors exploded in their oven? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    National Labor Relations Law Facing New Court Challenges

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 5, 2025 48:50


     The National Labor Relations Act recently turned 90 years old, but there appear to be a series of new “what's old is new again” challenges to the constitutionality of National Labor Relations Board's powers, a replay of arguments harking back to the New Deal.  Guests Eric Dreiband and Diana Reddy explore the current state of employment and labor law and recent challenges to NLRB oversight and the president's power over the board.  The Act and the NLRB sprang from the Great Depression and were incorporated into New Deal policies in an attempt to fix what went wrong. The NLRB and Act have provided protections to workers and unions and sought to level the bargaining process for decades.  But what was believed to be settled law might not be as “settled” as many thought. Today a flurry of new legal challenges question the constitutionality of some provisions and the extent of a sitting president's power over leadership at the NLRB along with the role of administrative law judges. Legal professionals who have been counting on the “bedrock” of established labor relations law may find that foundation is shaking again.  Mentioned in This Episode: “Relitigating the New Deal: The Stakes of Current Constitutional Challenges to the NLRB” by Diana Reddy, Duke University, Labor National Labor Relations Act “Is the NLRB Unconstitutional? The Courts May Finally Decide, by Alexander T. MacDonald, Federalist Society “National Labor Relations Board v. Jones & Laughlin Steel Corporation,” Oyez “Space Exploration Technologies Corp. v. National Labor Relations Board,” Justia “Donald J. Trump, President Of The United States, Et Al. V. Gwynne A. Wilcox, Et Al. On Application For Stay,” U.S. Supreme Court National Labor Relations Board  Equal Employment Opportunity Commission ABA Labor and Employment Law Section ABA Labor and Employment Law events Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Scams: What to Look Out For, Recovery, AI, and How to Protect Yourself

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 1, 2025 34:34


    From VA Imposter Scams to “Free Piano” Scams, scammers will stop at nothing to lure you in and take your money. With the introduction of AI into our everyday lives, scammers have used this as a tool to deceive individuals, leaving victims penniless or even stealing their identity. So how do you identify a scammer? And is there anything legally you can do to stop them? In this episode, Craig welcomes Steve Weisman, a nationally recognized expert in scams, identity theft, and cybersecurity as well as a lawyer, college professor, and prolific author. Together, Craig and Steve discuss scams, what to look out for, how to navigate through a scam, recovery, AI & scams, and how to protect yourself from these various scams. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    The Future of Law, Understanding the “Big Picture” in a Changing World

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 31, 2025 46:56


    When running a law firm, it's vital to know what's important. Results? Production? Call it “everything.” When we explore the future of law, it's important to talk about the whole picture. Today, that means AI, money, financing, and results. Guest Dan Lear, VP of Partnerships at InfoTrack shares his insights.  It starts with understanding the “hemispheres” of the brain and understanding yourself and how you think. The world is moving from a “left brain” logical type of approach to a more holistic, creative approach, tapping unconventional, big picture skills. The narrow approach learned in law school and practiced in the past is due for an upgrade.  There's a lot going on. Will AI make you more productive, or will it jam you up? Understanding today's legal landscape and the new era of work demands your attention.  Lear digs into how fast things are changing. AI is rewriting the very tech we use, and you can't escape it, only keep up. Take a new look at the future of work, and, equally important, the future of money, outside funding, and the practice of law as a business.  Join the next Community Table live. What's on your mind? Mentioned in This Episode: Clio legal software Clio, Daily Matters, “Dan Lear, Chief Instigator of Right Brain Law”  Avvo Daniel Pink, author Mycase Smokeball “The Free-Time Paradox in America,” The Atlantic, Derek Thompson Books by Ray Kurzweil, Amazon The Matrix, trailer “The End of Lawyers,” Richard Susskind Claude AI “The Prize,” on Amazon Legal Talk Network team Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    #571: What DEI Really Means for Small Law Firms, with Tanya Hernandez

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 31, 2025 34:07


    Many law firm owners want to foster inclusive workplaces—but aren't sure how to do it without missteps or performative gestures. Professor Tanya Hernandez of Fordham Law School joins Stephanie Everett to unpack what DEI really means, where it comes from legally, and how small firms can approach it with clarity and intention.  The conversation explores how unconscious bias shows up in hiring and evaluation, why culture fit can be a red flag, and how to implement practical guardrails that promote fairness without needing a big HR department. Tanya also clears up legal misconceptions about DEI post–Supreme Court ruling and offers smart, research-backed tips for making firms more equitable—without making a scene.  This episode is a thoughtful guide for law firm leaders who want to build stronger, fairer teams—one intentional decision at a time.   Listen to our other episodes on DEI & Belonging:  #450: The Power of Building Belonging, with Dr. Terrell Strayhorn Apple | Spotify | Lawyerist   #105: How Small Firms Can Promote Diversity, with Dr. Heather Hackman Apple | Lawyerist  #242: Brave, Not Perfect, with Reshma Saujani Apple | Lawyerist  Have thoughts about today's episode? Join the conversation on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and X!   If today's podcast resonates with you and you haven't read The Small Firm Roadmap Revisited yet, get the first chapter right now for free! Looking for help beyond the book? See if our coaching community is right for you.  Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com.  Chapters/Timestamps:  2:09 – Meet Professor Tanya Hernandez: DEI Legal Scholar  2:44 – What DEI Really Means: The Civil Rights Foundation  6:41 – Why Small Firms Should Care: The High Stakes of Small Teams  9:46 – Culture Fit or Bias? Rethinking How We Hire  17:04 – Guardrails: Tools to Catch Your Own Bias  22:07 – Is Your Culture Inclusive? Rethinking Team Bonding  24:04 – Where to Start: Learning from the Next Generation  26:14 – Asking the Right Questions: Curiosity Without Burden  28:27 – DEI Is Not Illegal: Clarifying Misconceptions  30:54 – Skip the Slogans: Doing the Real Work Without Performative DEI  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Checking In! Four Years Later, Solo Practice Aloha Divorce Is Thriving

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 31, 2025 44:22


    Let's get back in touch with a favorite guests from past episodes, friend of the podcast Cassandra Koenig, formerly Cassandra Michel, founder of the amicable family law and divorce firm Aloha Divorce. It's been a few years since we talked, and the firm is thriving (so is Koenig). How did she fare in the past four years, building her own family and a law practice? Hear how she's built a practice and supplemented her client work with contracted, side jobs to fill in slow spots. It's all part of running a true solo practice. Hear how Koenig new from the start she wanted to run a solo practice and stayed true to her aims, all without burning out. She's built a firm on her own terms, focusing on helping families move on in their own direction on good terms. Her practice makes her feel happy and fulfilled, she only works with clients she feels good about, and she keeps humming along. Thinking of going solo? Koenig's story will inspire you. Questions or ideas about solo and small practices? Drop us a line at NewSolo@legaltalknetwork.com   Topics: It can be done. Guest Cassandra Koening knew she wanted to run a solo practice, and checking in four years later we hear how she is making it work.  Technology and outsourcing are key components in a true solo practice. Learn how to source and maximize tech (and as we've said before, don't try to be your own bookkeeper).  Not every day is packed with client meetings. Sometimes it takes a little contracted side work to keep the wheels spinning, and that's OK. Resources: Previous appearance on New Solo, “How This New Lawyer Branded Her Firm With Aloha and Built a Happy Practice | First Flight #4”  Previous appearance on New Solo, “A First Year Recap From a New Family Law Practitioner”  Lawclerk.legal ARAG Google Analytics Canva marketing materials Clio Grow Calendly Otter AI Chat GPT Previous episode: “What's New in Legal Financial Management? An Expert's Perspective” Clio Legal Tech ABA Techshow 2026 Clio Cloud Conference 2025 Clio Legal Trends Report Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Lawyers Getting Really High On AI Hallucinations

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 30, 2025 34:56


    Get it together, people! ----- It was a very bad week for lawyers and hallucinations. A federal judge had to withdraw an opinion with fake cites. One Biglaw firm fired a partner over an invented case, while another firm got tossed off a case over AI shenanigans. And the scribe of Ashurbanipal got mercilessly trolled by a judge pointing out that his fake AI cite apology included... another fake cite. Why does it seem like this is all getting worse? A Biglaw firm pushes its start date leaving incoming associates in the lurch and Alina Habba might be the U.S. Attorney for New Jersey. Or maybe not. Or maybe yes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    EP 914- Using AI in Your Practice

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 30, 2025 26:18


    Are you using AI as a colleague or a crutch? Recent research and our personal experience can help you decide how to utilize this tool without turning off your brain. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    3 trial court judges share the tough cases that stuck with them | Rebroadcast

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 30, 2025 45:03


    This month, we're revisiting some standout conversations from our archives. In this episode, three seasoned trial court judges reflect on the cases that have stayed with them throughout their years on the bench. ----- All judges have cases that stick with them and linger in their memories. Sometimes it was because of the high profile of the case, and sometimes an obscure case had personal resonance because of the people or issues involved. In this episode of the Modern Law Library, the ABA Journal's Lee Rawles speaks with Judges Russell F. Canan, Gregory E. Mize and Frederick H. Weisberg, who all sit on the Superior Court of the District of Columbia. The three judges were contributors to and the editors of “Tough Cases: Judges Tell the Stories of Some of the Hardest Decisions They've Ever Made.” Canan, Mize and Weisberg share their own stories, including why Canan's well-meant gesture to avert an injustice in a gun case still troubles him. Mize explains why a child-custody case haunted him for decades, and what happened when he tracked down the now-grown child as he was deciding whether to write about it for “Tough Cases.” Weisberg talks about dealing with the emotional fallout from overseeing a case where a mother had murdered her four children. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    A Time for Goodbyes. Longtime Host Dave Scriven-Young Signs Off

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 29, 2025 8:53


    In this episode, we say farewell to longtime host Dave Scriven-Young as he turns the podcast hosting duties over to James “Jim” Reeder and Michal “Mic” Rogson. Beginning with the next episode, Jim, an accomplished commercial trial litigator, and Michal, a veteran litigator who strives to turn complex legal issues into clear, concise arguments, will continue Dave's passion for helping lawyers and law firms thrive.  Dave leaves with a few words of advice for both rising young attorneys and established firms looking to the next step. “Build a career that you'll still love in 20 years,” he says. Curate your life, not just your résumé, and do the things that bring you satisfaction. Learn to say no early in your career. Not every challenge is right for you, and too much static can lead to burnout. Build relationships and guard your reputation, people remember you as a person long after they've read your résumé. Assess every step of your career and pivot as needed, people and situations change. And finally, know when to lift up others, help those coming up behind you, be a mentor, and share what you've learned. Dave will continue to remain active in the Litigation Section of the American Bar Association and is always eager to meet listeners and share stories at Litigation Section events. Resources: American Bar Association American Bar Association Litigation Section American Bar Association Litigation Journal Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    First Responders and Workers' Comp, Understanding Workplace Injuries and PTSD

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 29, 2025 41:59


    What happens when a first responder is hurt on the job or suffers from job-related post-traumatic stress? We depend on these heroes among us, always there when we need them most. But many must depend on Workers' Comp professionals to help them when they are injured. Guest Paolo Longo is a partner with the law firm Bichler & Longo PLLC in Orlando, Florida. He specializes not only in helping injured workers, but also those injured workers who happen to be first responders.  While physical threats are ever-present, PTSD is more common than many know. The hard part is getting victims and doctors to open up and talk about it. Police, fire, and corrections professionals are tough people. But the stress and injuries they suffer are real. How do first responder Workers' Comp cases differ by state? Where do some issues fall under the so-called “presumption law?” First responders today are exposed to hazardous materials, toxic smoke, and traumatizing situations. As advocates push awareness of the physical and mental challenge they face, it's up to Workers' Comp attorneys to stay current.  If you have thoughts on Workers' Comp law or an idea for a topic or guest you'd like to hear, contact us at JPierce@ppnlaw.com or APierce@ppnlaw.com.  Mentioned in This Episode: “Is PTSD Covered Under Workers' Comp?” Bichler & Longo blog Pulse nightclub shooting, Wikipedia Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Fresh Voices on Legal Tech with Kimberly Bennett

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 25, 2025 42:46


    Subscription and flat fee legal services have endless potential for modern law practice, and with legal tech by your side, you can scale with this fresh billing model. Dennis and Tom talk with Kimberly Bennett of Fidu about her experience developing subscription legal services and her current perspectives on the state of legal tech in the profession. They discuss Kimberly's career path, how Fidu got its start, and her thoughts on the transformative potential of AI in legal practice.  As always, stay tuned for the parting shots, that one tip, website, or observation that you can use the second the podcast ends. Have a technology question for Dennis and Tom? Call their Tech Question Hotline at 720-441-6820 for the answers to your most burning tech questions. Kimberly is Co-Founder and CEO of Fidu, a client experience platform to help you sell, deliver, and scale your flat-fee & subscription legal services. Show Notes: Being is the New Doing by  Radiah Rhodes Smart911 Legal AI Live Webcast on LinkedIn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    #570: Uncover Your Firm's Journey with the New Small Firm Scorecard™, with Stephanie Everett

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 24, 2025 35:57


    Your law firm isn't just a business—it's an evolving system. And what works in one stage of growth can sink you in another.  In this episode, Zack Glaser and Stephanie Everett introduce the new Lawyerist Small Firm Scorecard™, a tool that helps lawyers identify which stage their firm is in—and what to focus on next.  Stephanie breaks down the four key stages of firm development, shares the reasoning behind the Scorecard's redesign, and explains how understanding your stage changes everything: from hiring to marketing to long-term planning.  Lawyerist Lab is evolving alongside the new scorecard, offering coaching clients a more personalized, stage-specific growth path. If you're building a law firm with long-term goals, this episode will help you step back, recalibrate, and take the right action for where you are now.  Listen to our other episodes on Law Firm Growth :   #568: How to Build a Law Firm You Can Sell, with Victoria L. Collier Apple | Spotify | Lawyerist  #560: Stop Doing Everything Yourself! Unlock Your Law Firm's True Potential with Leticia Desuze Apple | Spotify | Lawyerist  #527: Casting Your Vision and Leading Your Firm, with Kevin DeShazo Apple | Spotify | Lawyerist  #522: The EOS Secret to Mastering Law Firm Challenges, with Mike Paton Apple | Spotify | Lawyerist    Have thoughts about today's episode? Join the conversation on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and X!   If today's podcast resonates with you and you haven't read The Small Firm Roadmap Revisited yet, get the first chapter right now for free! Looking for help beyond the book? See if our coaching community is right for you.   Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com.    Chapters/Timestamps:   0:00 – Episode Introduction and the Power of Unplugged Vacations  4:49 – Tabs3 Spotlight: Practice Management That Adapts to You  14:48 – Why the Small Firm Scorecard™ Got a Makeover 16:50 – Inside the New Scorecard: Defined Benchmarks, Real Clarity 19:10 – The Healthy Firm Model: The Six Pillars of Sustainable Growth 21:00 – Mapping Your Firm's Stage: Launch, Build, Grow, or Exit 27:26 – Coaching Evolved: How the Scorecard Shapes Lawyerist Lab 30:58 – From Overwhelm to Focus: Coaching Like a Personal Trainer 34:38 – What to Do Next: Take the Scorecard, Get a Plan  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    EP 615- 12 battle tested rules for Voir Dire Part Two

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 23, 2025 32:30


    Part Two provides six strategies to help remove unfavorable jurors, better frame your case and deal with damages. But to do so, you must focus on the worst part of your case and prepare to reframe it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Aging With Dignity: How Legal Services Keep Seniors Safe

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 22, 2025 29:11


    Legal experts discuss the critical role civil legal services play in addressing the legal needs of older Americans on Talk Justice. Last year, LSC-funded legal organizations assisted more than 312,000 Americans age 60 and up with their legal problems. Issues surrounding wills, power of attorney and advance directives are common for aging Americans, and seniors are often targeted for scams and fraud. These legal crises can exacerbate other stressors, such as rising housing costs and medical issues that can undermine seniors' safety, stability and ability to age in their home with dignity and autonomy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Immigration and Employment Law, Today's Tangled Web

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 22, 2025 42:55


    When it comes to foreign workers inside the United States today, the world of immigration law has seemingly been upended. It can be hard to keep up with rapidly evolving events and rulings, but with clients and employers at risk, professionals who represent them can't afford to fall behind. When do employers check work authorization, and how often can they? What do employers need to be looking for? And what industries are most affected?  While the Trump v. Casa case may not have brought the clarity many in labor and employment law sought, it was simply a procedural move that limits jurisdiction, it's not the final word. This gets confusing in a hurry as the labor and employment professionals grapple with protective status, refugees, temporary status, and workforce eligibility issues. Hear insights from accomplished guests Jonathan Grode and Ingrid Nava into where shifting immigration policies may affect labor and employment law and what some of these decisions mean across the country and across labor sectors. In today's uncertain times, it's important to understand the limits of what employers can do, even when they are trying to do the right thing, as well as the rights of employees. Confused? You're not alone. Mentioned in This Episode: Trump v. Casa, U.S. Supreme Court “Trump v. CASA and the future of the universal injunction,” SCOTUSblog explainer ABA Labor and Employment Law Section ABA Labor and Employment Law events Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Jeremy Evans on Leadership, Breaking Away, and Knowing When to Pivot

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 21, 2025 53:16


    Jeremy Evans, founder of California Sports Lawyer and past president of the California Lawyers Association, joins Amanda Arriaga and Lynette Paczkowski on the second episode of Leading the Bar, the podcast from the National Conference of Bar Presidents designed to help lawyers engage and grow as leaders. Evans shares insights from helping lead the creation of CLA after its historic separation from the State Bar of California, explaining why voluntary bar associations are uniquely positioned to focus on education and advocacy. He reflects on how his passion for sports—including visiting all 30 Major League ballparks—helped shape his career, and encourages lawyers to think deeply about their goals and embrace the courage it takes to pivot. Evans also discusses how bar leaders can stay connected to their members, avoid mission drift, and balance the personal and professional benefits of volunteer leadership. This episode offers practical lessons for any lawyer interested in building meaningful relationships, creating positive change, and leading with purpose. California Lawyers Association: http://calawyers.org/California Lawyers Foundation: https://calawyersfoundation.org/California Sports Lawyer: https://www.csllegal.com/National Conference of Bar Presidents: https://ncbp.org/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    The Texas Floods: Warnings, Staffing Cuts, Climate Change, & How to Protect Ourselves from Extreme Weather

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 18, 2025 43:20


    On the 4th of July, extreme rainfall ripped through Central Texas, causing catastrophic flash flooding, leaving 119 dead and over 160 missing, with numbers climbing. The National Weather Service (NWS), which has recently experienced staffing cuts under DOGE & the Trump Administration, came under fire from local Texas officials who criticized the insufficient warnings ahead of the extreme weather. In this episode, Craig welcomes Professor Jim Blackburn, environmental lawyer and co-director of the Severe Storm Prevention, Education and Evacuation from Disaster (SSPEED) Center at Rice University. Together, Craig and Jim discuss warnings, impact of staffing cuts, climate change, policy, and how we can protect ourselves from extreme weather. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    #569: Your Head is a Crappy Office, and Other GTD Principles for Attorneys, with David Allen

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 17, 2025 43:28


    Many lawyers feel overwhelmed by never-ending to-do lists, constant context-switching, and the mental clutter of trying to keep it all straight. In this episode, Zack Glaser talks with productivity pioneer David Allen, author of Getting Things Done (GTD), about how lawyers can break free from chaos and reclaim control—both personally and as a team.  David shares the five key steps of the GTD framework and explains why a “clear mind” isn't a luxury —it's a leadership necessity. You'll learn how to stop relying on your brain as a filing cabinet, how to set up simple systems that actually stick, and how to build a law firm culture where everyone knows what to do next.  We also explore concepts from his new book, Team: Getting Things Done with Others, including how to reduce bottlenecks, clarify roles, and avoid burnout by working smarter not just harder.  Whether you're a solo lawyer juggling everything or a leader scaling a team, this episode will help you create space to think, lead, and grow.    Listen to our other episodes on systems & productivity:  #419: Free Yourself from Productivity, with Oliver Burkeman Apple | Spotify | Lawyerist #514: The Hidden Value of Doing Less, with Leidy Klotz Apple | Spotify | Lawyerist #485: Unleash Your Law Firm's Potential with an Internal Coach, with Robin Carberry Apple | Spotify | Lawyerist #516: Flexing Your Discipline Muscle to Stay Motivated, with Sara Muender Apple | Spotify | Lawyerist  Have thoughts about today's episode? Join the conversation on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and X!  If today's podcast resonates with you and you haven't read The Small Firm Roadmap Revisited yet, get the first chapter right now for free! Looking for help beyond the book? See if our coaching community is right for you.  Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com.    Chapters/Timestamps:  00:00 – Introduction: What Is GTD and Why Lawyers Need It  00:46 – Staying Ahead of the Wave: Zack's GTD Takeaway  02:18 – Brain Dumping for Clarity: A Lawyer Coaching Example  05:34 – Introducing the Small Firm Scorecard  09:54 – Meet David Allen: Creator of Getting Things Done (GTD)  13:47 – Mind Like Water: The Mental State of True Productivity  15:59 – Your Brain Is a Terrible Office: The 5 Steps of GTD  24:52 – From Inbox to Action: Making Systems Stick  27:06 – Avoiding Burnout with Weekly Reviews  31:25 – From High Performer to Dysfunctional Team  34:46 – The Soccer Analogy: Great Players Still Need Teamwork  39:28 – The Power of Saying No: GTD's Boldest Lesson  42:32 – First Steps: Start by Capturing What's on Your Mind  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Historic Justice: Investigating Cruelty and Death at Florida's Dozier School for Boys

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 16, 2025 57:09


    For over a century, The Dozier School for Boys held dark secrets behind its gates. Allegations of abuse, forced labor, and unexplained deaths had often come up throughout its history, but the full reality of what happened during its time in operation was largely unknown. Maggie Mendenhall-Casey talks with forensic anthropologist Erin Kimmerle about her mission to bring justice to the forgotten children of Dozier. Erin shares the story of her investigation, including her processes for locating unmarked graves, the community backlash and political resistance she faced, and the continuing efforts for justice and reunification with victims' families.  Read the full account in Erin's book:  We Carry Their Bones: The Search for Justice at the Dozier School for Boys  Erin H. Kimmerle, Ph.D., is the Executive Director of the Florida Institute for Forensic Anthropology and Applied Science at the University of South Florida Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Who Knew Biting Other Lawyers Was Frowned Upon?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 16, 2025 40:14


    Lots to chew on this week. ----- Biglaw summer associate let go after biting upwards of 15 people at the firm. Now that sounds crazy, but that's because it is. We also discuss a lawyer's biting response to a demand letter. A lot of the professional decorum advocates objected to the tone, but at a certain point how does the profession pushback against aggressive and unfounded demands without public shaming? There's not another readily accessible disincentive. Finally, we address the gnashing of teeth in conservative media ecosphere over Superman being an immigrant and the knots they're willing to tie themselves into in order to avoid the obvious. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    EP 913- Fostering Strong Team Relationships

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 16, 2025 37:08


    Your success depends on your team.  We talk with one of our paralegal team members about ways to build trust and encourage better collaboration. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    How agentic artificial intelligence could shake up the legal industry

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 16, 2025 38:32


    For lawyers, artificial intelligence agents could completely change the way that they do their jobs, handling things such as legal research, document creation and managing workflows with little human supervision. But if we've learned anything since the dawn of the generative AI revolution, the potential benefits of agentic AI come with risks and possible consequences, as well. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Exploring Voting Behavior and Civic Engagement with Mindy Romero

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 15, 2025 26:00


    Mindy Romero is the founder and director of the Center for Inclusive Democracy that is part of the USC Sol Price School of Public Policy based in Sacramento, California. Romero is a political sociologist whose research focuses on political behavior and race/ethnicity. The research and reports of the Center seek to explain patterns of voting and political underrepresentation, particularly among youth and communities of color in California and the U.S. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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