Movers, Shakers & Rainmakers

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Introducing “Movers, Shakers & Rainmakers," a new podcast, hosted by David Lat and Lateral Link Senior Recruiter, Zach Sandberg, focused on the Biglaw lateral market. Each week, David and Zach will dissect some of the most significant recent lateral partn

Sarkis Adajian


    • Jun 21, 2024 LATEST EPISODE
    • every other week NEW EPISODES
    • 32m AVG DURATION
    • 69 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from Movers, Shakers & Rainmakers

    Episode 68: David Lat and Zach Sandberg Analyze the 2024 Vault Rankings

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 21, 2024 29:06


    In this epidose of "Movers, Shakers & Rainmakers," David Lat and Zach Sandberg discuss the newly released 2024 Vault Rankings. How are the Vault rankings formulated? Who moved up? Who dropped down? And why? For the Move of the Week, David discusses Norton Rose's hiring of a 12 attorney team from Bryan Cave, while Zach analyzes Mayer Brown's addition of Gabrielle Levin from Gibson Dunn to co-lead their Employment Litigation & Counseling practice.

    Episode 67: Bridget McCormack, CEO of the American Arbitration Association, on Creating Access to Justice and the Future of Dispute Resolution

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 13, 2024 42:51


    This week, on "Movers, Shakers & Rainmakers," we interview Chief Justice Bridget Mary McCormack, CEO and President of the American Arbitration Association (AAA). Bridget served as the Chief Justice of the Michigan Supreme Court before assuming leadership of the AAA. In this episode, we journey through the early stages of Bridget's career as a public interest lawyer and professor, before she made the bold move of entering the election for the Michigan Supreme Court in 2012. Bridget tells us about her decision, after an impressive decade on the bench, to join the AAA, where she has worked to provide more people with access to justice by adopting new technologies in online dispute resolution. She highlights the AAA's recent acquisition of ODR.com and speaks to the significant influence of artificial intelligence in the development of alternative dispute resolution. For the move of the week, David covers Cooley's hiring of federal prosecutor John Bostic, who garnered significant renown during the investigation and trial of Theranos CEO Elizabeth Holmes. Zach discusses Paul Hastings' recent surge of lateral finance and restructuring partner hiring, which includes a group of eleven private credit and special situations partners that just joined the firm, led by Jennifer Daly.

    Episode 67: Bridget McCormack, CEO of the American Arbitration Association, on Creating Access to Justice and the Future of Dispute Resolution

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 6, 2024 44:21


    This week, on Movers, Shakers & Rainmakers, we interview Chief Justice Bridget McCormack, CEO and President of the American Arbitration Association (AAA). Bridget served as the Chief Justice of the Michigan Supreme Court before assuming leadership of the AAA. In this episode, we journey through the early stages of Bridget's career as a public interest lawyer and professor, before she made the bold move of entering the election for the Michigan Supreme Court in 2012. Bridget tells us about her decision, after an impressive decade on the bench, to join the AAA, where she has worked to provide more people with access to justice by adopting new technologies in online dispute resolution. She highlights the AAA's recent acquisition of ODR.com and speaks to the significant influence of artificial intelligence in the development of alternative dispute resolution. For the move of the week, David covers Cooley's hiring of federal prosecutor John Bostic, who garnered significant renown during the investigation and trial of Theranos CEO Elizabeth Holmes. Zach discusses Paul Hastings' recent surge of lateral finance and restructuring partner hiring, which includes a group of eleven private credit and special situations partners that just joined the firm, led by Jennifer Daly.

    Episode 66: Kyle Gann, Winston & Strawn Corporate Partner on the Struggle, Acceptance and Servanthood

    Play Episode Listen Later May 24, 2024 39:16


    In this episode of Movers, Shakers & Rainmakers, we go down the rabbit hole with Kyle Gann, corporate partner at Winston & Strawn. Kyle defied his father's advice and became a lawyer anyway, overcoming an injury that nearly snatched his dream of becoming an attorney from his grasp. On the show, our conversation goes in a different direction than we're used to: Kyle opens up and shares vulnerably about his past. If you have a penchant for philosophy, you will enjoy our discussion about how the fear of loss can direct one's course in life. Finally, Kyle sheds light on the main law by which he operates: live with joy. For the Move of the Week, David covers Cahill's opening of a Wilmington office with a group of crypto hires while Zach speaks to Sullivan & Cromwell's addition of a prominent tech M&A group from Skadden.

    Episode 65: David Lat and Zach Sandberg Dissect the 2023 Am Law 200 Law Firm Rankings

    Play Episode Listen Later May 10, 2024 28:26


    This week, on Movers, Shakers & Rainmakers, our hosts David Lat and Zach Sandberg do a deep dive on the most recent set of the American Lawyer's famed law firm rankings—both the Am Law 100 ranking, which came out last month, and the Second Hundred ranking, which was just released. Who is moving up in the world? Are there firms struggling? What factors are driving the success of the firms that are flourishing? Join our hosts as they run through numerous metrics that measure a firm's financial health and performance in this must-listen episode. For his move of the week, David follows another high-profile acquisition by Paul Weiss, which seems to be on a hiring spree, while Zach breaks down Baker McKenzie's onboarding of a major West Coast transactional team from Munger.

    Episode 64: Melissa Saleh, Co-Founder of FairPlay AI on Career Throughlines, Storytelling, and Disrupting an Industry

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 25, 2024 37:53


    This week, on Movers, Shakers & Rainmakers, our hosts speak with Melissa Saleh, whose start-up, FairPlay AI, is introducing AI-powered models that increase fairness and profits for lenders. Melissa and David go back twenty years to the early days of blogging when Melissa shook up the legal industry with her controversial blog, Opinionistas. Melissa would leave the practice of law to go full force into the world of digital journalism, writing for numerous prominent media brands. We talk about career throughlines, and it just so happens that Melissa had a particularly powerful throughline in both her narrative work and career: technology's influence on our lives. It was this current that ultimately pulled her into the dynamic role that she now occupies: that of a tech founder. For the move of the week, David discusses the proposed merger between Troutman Pepper and Locke Lorde, while Zach analyzes a multi-office group hired by Shook, Hardy & Bacon.

    Episode 63: Katherine Allen, CEO and Co-Founder of Flo Recruit on Innovating Firm Recruitment

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 11, 2024 29:21


    This week on Movers, Shakers & Rainmakers, we sit down with Katherine Allen, CEO and Co-Founder of Flo Recruit, a company making waves in the way both law schools and law firms orchestrate their recruitment processes. Katherine tells us the story of how she started innovating in the legal industry before graduating from college. We then discuss how the company strives to tackle some of the more complex operational challenges faced by law firms in their never-ending efforts to recruit the top talent. For his move of the week, Zach covers Javad Asghari's move to Simpson Thacher, while David dives into a string of recent high-profile antitrust hires.

    Episode 62 - Colin Levy, Evangelist and Director of Legal at Malbek on Legal Tech

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 29, 2024 28:56


    In this episode of Movers, Shakers & Rainmakers, we tackle all things legal technology with Colin Levy, a thought leader in the field. In his current role as Evangelist and Director of Legal at Malbek, Colin acts as a luminary for those not yet accustomed to rapidly-evolving technology and the increasingly important role it plays in attorneys' lives. Join us for this wide-ranging discussion, covering topics from the ability of AI to augment performance to a candid conversation with Colin about his own mental health journey. For the move of the week, Zach covers Barnes & Thornburg's recent acquisition on a restructuring team in Atlanta, while David takes a look at McDermott's hiring of a white collar group from Orrick, led by Guy Singer.

    Episode 61 - Pierre Gentin, Chief Legal Officer at McKinsey & Co, on Passion and Professionalism

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 14, 2024 38:58


    In this episode, we have a deep, thoughtful conversation with Pierre Gentin, McKinsey's Chief Legal Officer and the first non-consultant elected a senior partner in the firm's almost 100-year history. Pierre defines the elements of excellence to which attorneys can aspire while waxing philosophical about how people can find meaning in their work. As Pierre so eloquently puts it, "There are arrows of inspiration flying over us all the time, but do we reach up and grab them?" The conversation lends a fresh perspective to the work that we do day in and day out, while also digging into the dynamics of an esteemed organization, like McKinsey, as it expands globally.

    Episode 60: Breaking Barriers - Husch Blackwell's Emily Logan Stedman on Navigating Partnership, Mental Health Advocacy, and Female Leadership in Law

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 14, 2024 31:42


    Join David Lat and Zach Sandberg on Movers, Shakers & Rainmakers as they chat with Emily Logan Stedman, newly appointed partner at Husch Blackwell and advocate for lawyer well-being. Emily shares her journey to partnership, her commitment to mental health in the legal community, and how she balances leadership with personal well-being. She discusses the evolving role of women in law, mentoring, and her strategies for personal branding and business development. Emily also offers advice to junior associates and law students, including the use of the billable hour as a time-management tool. In Moves of the Week, we spotlight Kimberly Branscome's move to Paul, Weiss in Los Angeles, King & Spalding welcoming longtime Hollingsworth litigator Greg Chernack in DC, and Hogan Lovells hiring 23 M&A lawyers from Orrick in Italy. Tune in for insights on legal career growth, mental health advocacy, and the importance of personal branding. Don't forget to rate, review, subscribe, and share with your network!

    Episode 59: Exploring Finance and Mentorship - A Conversation with DLA Piper's Matt Schwartz

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 1, 2024 34:09


    Join David Lat and Zach Sandberg on Movers, Shakers & Rainmakers as they chat with Matt Schwartz, Practice Group Leader and Chair of the US Finance Group at DLA Piper. Matt shares his journey from starting at DLA Piper to running finance transactions to leading the US practice group. He also talks about the evolution and current state of the finance industry, as well as what he expects in the finance world in 2024. The conversation concludes with a discussion of the value of mentorship, for mentors as well as mentees, plus practical advice from Matt about time management. In Moves of the Week, we spotlight one Cravath partner joining Davis Polk, a second going to Freshfields, and Debevoise welcoming Rick Sofield as partner, enhancing its national security offerings. Tune in for a comprehensive look at legal excellence and leadership. Ad don't forget to rate, review, subscribe, and share with your network!

    Episode 58: Kannon Shanmugam, Paul, Weiss Partner - Mastering Supreme Court Advocacy & Pioneering Leadership

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 16, 2024 39:58


    Join us on Movers, Shakers & Rainmakers, where hosts David Lat and Zach Sandberg sit down with Kannon Shanmugam, one of the nation's preeminent Supreme Court advocates. A partner at Paul, Weiss, Kannon serves as chair of the firm's Supreme Court and appellate practice, chair of the D.C. office, and co-chair of litigation. On the podcast, he discusses how his study of the classics was an ideal background for a lawyer, his distinctive style as a Supreme Court litigator, and his approaches to teaching advocacy and mentorship. Kannon also reflects on his time at Paul, Weiss, which he joined five years ago this month, and shares some of the strategies behind its remarkable success, as well as his career advice for law students and lawyers. In this week's Moves of the Week, David shares the news of Torridon Law, the law firm founded by former attorney general Bill Barr and former Facebook general counsel Ted Ullyot, hiring former White House lawyers Pat Cipollone, Pat Philbin, and Kate Todd, while Zach highlights McDermott's strategic addition of a healthcare team from Wilson Sonsini. Don't miss this episode for an in-depth look at legal excellence and leadership. Remember to rate, review, subscribe, and share Movers, Shakers & Rainmakers with your colleagues and friends!

    Episode 57: Lateral Link Principal, Summer Eberhard on Shaping Legal Careers: Insights into Recruiting, Diversity, and Industry Trends

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 5, 2024 34:20


    In this episode of Movers, Shakers & Rainmakers, join us as we chat with Summer Eberhard, a Principal in our California and Seattle offices. Summer shares her journey from attorney to legal recruiter and delves into the recruiting scene across California and Seattle, highlighting the changing landscape of the legal industry over the last decade and current market trends. She also discusses her approach providing invaluable advice for legal professionals navigating their career paths and the role of diversity and inclusion in modern recruitment. In our 'Move of the Week' segment, host Zach Sandberg spotlights a significant development: DLA Piper's Antitrust Team expanding with three former Norton Rose Litigators. Tune in for an insightful exploration of the legal recruiting landscape and expert career guidance. Don't forget to rate, review, subscribe, and share with your network!  

    Episode 56: From Mathematics to Legal Mastery: Gene Phillips on Litigation Finance and Growing Law Firms

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 21, 2023 36:01


    In this Movers, Shakers, and Rainmakers episode, David Lat and Zach Sandberg engage in an insightful discussion with Gene Phillips, founder of Lexangle, a leading legal-consulting firm. Gene describes his interesting journey from mathematics to finance to litigation finance to legal consulting. The conversation then delves into the rise of litigation boutiques, current trends in litigation finance, and expert advice on launching and growing law firms. For our Moves of the Week, we spotlight Jones Day's impressive hire of eight Supreme Court clerks and Paul Weiss's exploration of a possible Houston office, which would strengthen its presence in the energy sector. Join us for this fascinating episode, and don't forget to rate, review, subscribe, and tell a friend!

    Episode 55: Robert Ingalls, CEO of LawPods - Transforming Lawyer Marketing

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 5, 2023 37:51


    On the latest installment of Movers, Shakers, and Rainmakers, we chat with Robert Ingalls, Founder & CEO of LawPods, to explore his transition from legal practice to revolutionizing podcasting for lawyers. In a detailed discussion, Robert tackles the challenges law firms face in marketing, particularly in podcasting, and how to stand out in a crowded market. He offers strategic advice for lawyers or firms considering launching their own podcasts and how to effectively craft their brand. As for our Moves of the Week, they feature significant industry shifts: the departure of litigation and corporate leaders from FisherBroyles, hinting at a possible mass exodus from the first distributed firm in the Am Law 200, and the notable move of Josh Birenbaum from Allen & Overy's Los Angeles office to Kirkland & Ellis. Tune in, and remember to rate, review, subscribe, and share Movers, Shakers, and Rainmakers with your network

    Episode 54: Breaking New Ground - Milbank's Salary Surge and the 2023 Lateral Market Lowdown

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 9, 2023 26:02


    On this week's episode of Movers, Shakers, and Rainmakers, we take a deep dive into the 2023 lateral market. Join us as we unpack Milbank's trailblazing associate salary increase, setting an unprecedented $225K floor and reaching heights of $425K. Our hosts sift through the intricacies of the year-end bonus frenzy and spotlight the practice areas that hottest right now. Looking ahead, we make a few predictions about Biglaw in 2024. Wrapping up the episode, we discuss our moves of the week, featuring Cozen O'Connor hiring Ketan Bhirud, former chief deputy attorney general at the Nevada AG's office, and McDermott's strategic bolstering of Musk's X with a star acquisition from a rival firm. Tune in for an episode brimming with expert analysis and predictions that every legal professional anticipating future market trends won't want to miss. Remember to rate, review, subscribe, and share Movers, Shakers, and Rainmakers with your network!  

    Episode 53: Navigating Legal Education with Anastasia Boyko - Innovation, Leadership, and 'Unicorn Talent'

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 25, 2023 33:49


    In this unmissable podcast episode, we're joined by Anastasia Boyko, Director of Non-JD Programs at the University of Utah S.J. Quinney College of Law, who shares her remarkable journey from Soviet-era Ukraine to a pivotal role in legal education. Anastasia looks back on her law school days, sheds light on the establishment of the YLS leadership program, and describes her crucial involvement in shaping unconventional legal pathways today. The episode concludes with a rich discourse on leadership, innovation, and the pursuit of 'unicorn talent' within the legal realm. Whether you are navigating the waters of education, legal practice, or leadership, this episode offers a treasure trove of practical advice and motivational insights. For our Moves of the Week segment, Cleary Gottlieb continues its expansion in the Bay Area with the significant addition of Angela Dunning, while Goodwin reinforces its California life sciences team with partner David Chen. Be sure to rate, review, subscribe, and most importantly, tell a friend!

    Episode 52: The Inspiring Career of Brown Rudnick's Camille Vasquez—Plus Navigating the Spotlight in Depp v. Heard

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 13, 2023 47:00


    Join us for a compelling conversation with Camille Vasquez, Partner at Brown Rudnick and Co-chair of the Firm's Brand & Reputation Management Group, as we delve into her remarkable career, especially her pivotal role in the headline-grabbing Depp v. Heard case. Camille describes her unusual professional journey, including stories she hasn't shared publicly before—and even an early failure that turned into a crucial learning experience. She also offers a behind-the-scenes look at the Depp v. Heard trial and reveals how "earned luck" and familial encouragement have been steadfast pillars throughout her life and career. You won't want to miss this insightful and inspiring interview, full of rich insights from a true luminary in the legal realm. As always, be sure to rate, review, subscribe, and be sure to tell a friend!

    Episode 51: Redefining Legal Operations with AI - Michael Heise Unpacks haistack.ai's Profit-Protection Potential

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 26, 2023 34:05


    In our latest episode of Movers, Shakers & Rainmakers: The Biglaw Lateral Market, we dive deep into the intricate melding of recruitment, technology, and the legal industry with Michael Heise, CTO of haistack.ai. Enhanced by years of legal data and insights from Lateral Link and its expert team, Heise discusses how haistack.ai is meticulously crafted to boost the recruiting capabilities of law firms, aid in attorney retention, and proactively safeguard firms from potential lost profits. We probe the unique journey behind its creation, the challenges AI faces, and its transformative potential. And, as we always keep you updated, our hosts also highlight the latest legal shake-ups: Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz's high-profile partner acquisition from Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP and the notable attorney departures at Stroock & Stroock & Lavan LLP. As always, be sure to rate, review, subscribe and tell a friend!

    Episode 50: Navigating Mental Wellness in Law - An Insightful Chat with Jordana Confini

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 13, 2023 35:39


    In our latest episode of Movers, Shakers & Rainmakers: The Biglaw Lateral Market, we delve into the timely and crucial topic of mental health in the legal profession with Jordana Alter Confino, Founder of JC Coaching & Consulting and Adjunct Professor of Law at Fordham University School of Law. Jordana explained how the science of positive psychology helped her to transform her life and career—and how she is now using it to help others do the same. Covering both institutional reforms that law firms can adopt and small but important changes that individual lawyers can make, our conversation offers actionable insights for lawyers looking to thrive both personally and professionally. On the Moves of the Week segment, we spotlight Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP's strategic addition of 13 private equity partners from Kirkland & Ellis, spanning the U.S and U.K., and dive into the launch of an exciting new Denver litigation boutique, Olson Grimsley Kawanabe Hinchcliff & Murray LLC. As always, be sure to rate, review, subscribe, and tell a friend!

    Episode 49: A Conversation with Marta Ricardo, Director of Lawyering Skills and Assistant Dean of Professionalism at Fordham Law

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 21, 2023 29:08


    Join us for a new episode of Movers, Shakers & Rainmakers, as we welcome Marta Ricardo, the dynamic Director of Lawyering Skills and Assistant Dean of Professionalism at Fordham Law. Charting her course from big law into finance before transitioning into academia, Marta delivers insights about the skills lawyers must develop to thrive in today's world. Marta offers her perspective on how the profession is changing while making her case for the principles of practice that remain immutable.   For our Moves of the Week, we spotlight seismic industry shifts: Paul Weiss Rifkind Wharton & Garrison onboards four top-tier partners from Kirkland & Ellis, including renowned debt finance expert Neel Sachdev. Meanwhile, in a particularly notable move, public M&A partner Andrew Elken from Cravath heads to Latham in New York City.

    Episode 48: Daren Firestone - White House, Crypto Whistleblowing & High-Profile Cases

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 14, 2023 36:34


    Dive into our latest Movers, Shakers & Rainmakers episode as we engage with Daren Firestone, name partner at Levy Firestone Muse. We explore his time in government, including service as a federal prosecutor and White House lawyer; his shift to private practice; and his fascinating practice representing whistleblowers, especially in the cryptocurrency space. We also discuss some of his more high-profile matters, including investigations into doping in Major League Baseball and the French government's actions during the Rwandan Genocide. In our Moves of the Week, we highlight the launch of Meier Watkins, a spinoff from the Clare Locke defamation boutique, and Kenneth Polite, former head of the DOJ Criminal Division, joining Sidley Austin. Tune in for a deep dive into Firestone's dynamic career and the latest legal shifts! 

    Episode 47: Decoding Politics & Law - A Deep Dive with Mattathias Schwartz

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 28, 2023 31:21


    Get ready for an engrossing episode of Movers, Shakers & Rainmakers. We're thrilled to host acclaimed writer Mattathias Schwartz, the Chief National Security Correspondent for Insider, who is renowned for his cutting-edge investigations and in-depth journalism. Together we navigate an array of riveting topics, from ethics controversies at the Supreme Court to the trial of Donald Trump on charges of mishandling national-security documents. As a writer for Insider, Schwartz wrote a piece taking a close look at the legal-recruiting career of Jane Roberts, wife of Chief Justice John Roberts—from which she earned more than $10 million over the course of eight years. For our Moves of the Week, we discuss Blank Rome's strategic expansion into Dallas and a pair of high-profile hires of former government lawyers: Cravath picking up former deputy attorney general Jeffrey Rosen for its new D.C. office, and the Pallas Partners boutique hiring former S.D.N.Y. assistant U.S. attorney Joshua Naftalis. Don't miss out on this compelling episode packed with invaluable insights into the dynamics of our legal and political landscape. Tune in now!

    Episode 46: Elevating Legal Practice through Strategic Advising with Amy Mallow

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 6, 2023 33:14


    In our newest Movers, Shakers & Rainmakers: The Biglaw Lateral Market episode, we welcome Amy Mallow from Vertex Advisors LLC. Amy discusses her career journey from the courtroom to the classroom, followed by the world of consulting for legal professionals. Drawing on her varied experiences, Mallow shares her unique strategies and tools that have assisted attorneys in navigating their distinctive challenges. We explore her impactful tenure at Holland & Knight, emphasizing recruitment and professional development in a fast-paced, expanding firm. In her current role at Vertex Advisors, Mallow continues to leverage her expertise, offering insights on key principles that attorneys can apply in their own professional journeys. Our "Moves of the Week" segment highlights Clifford Chance welcoming partner David Sweeney to their new Houston office, and Holland & Knight adding a three-person IP team from Perkins Coie. Tune in for this insightful conversation filled with expert analysis and valuable takeaways.

    Episode 45: Strategic Marketing in Law with Legal Marketing Expert Stefanie Marrone

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 21, 2023 32:59


    In our latest episode of Movers, Shakers & Rainmakers, we're thrilled to host Stefanie Marrone, a remarkable leader at the intersection of marketing and business development for legal professionals. Marrone discusses how she found her way into consulting, as she sheds light on the common marketing missteps law firms make while offering valuable advice on what firms can do to elevate their profiles and differentiate their brands in a competitive landscape. She shares transformative client success stories, showcasing the power of strategic marketing, and provides a thoughtful exploration of the evolving identity of law firms as they adapt to better serve their clients and employees. In our popular “Moves of the Week” segment, we note that Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner picked up a 15-lawyer team from Dentons, including the leader of its global intellectual property and technology group, Song Jung, while Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP hired a New York-based mergers and acquisitions partner from Paul Weiss Rifkind Wharton & Garrison LLP. Tune in for this comprehensive discussion filled with tangible insights and expert analysis.

    Episode 44: Charles "Chuck" Curtis, President, CLCurtis31 Consulting

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 6, 2023 30:52


    In the latest installment of Movers, Shakers & Rainmakers, our hosts chat with Charles "Chuck" Curtis, legal industry veteran and the recent founder of CLCurtis31 Consulting. Chuck shares invaluable insight into the evolution of lateral partner hiring over the years, examining the complex factors propelling lateral moves while providing actionable advice to law firms seeking to obtain a competitive edge in this market. Chuck also forecasts potential trends and strategies for law firms. Closing the conversation, he looks back on his foundational career experiences, describing how his people-first philosophy will inform his work at CLCurtis31 Consulting. During the popular "Moves of the Week" segment, our hosts analyze the implications of Clifford Chance's new Houston office and several new hires by Paul Hastings. Remember to rate, review, subscribe, and tell a friend about the podcast!

    Episode 43: Ed Wisneski, Hiring Partner, Rimon Law

    Play Episode Listen Later May 23, 2023 36:07


    In the latest episode of Movers, Shakers & Rainmakers, our hosts have an insightful conversation with Ed Wisneski, Hiring Partner at Rimon Law. Delving deep into the unique aspects of Rimon's platform, Ed identifies the characteristics that set his law firm apart from more conventional ones, explains what types of partners and practices thrive at Rimon, and outlines the firm's future ambitions. In the popular "Moves of the Week" segment, our hosts break down the merger of Allen & Overy and Shearman & Sterling, plus Mayer Brown's strategic hiring of a senior national security official from the DOJ, Adam Hickey. Don't forget to rate, review, and subscribe. See you in two weeks!

    Episode 42: Allie Fennell, Managing Director, Lateral Link Southeast

    Play Episode Listen Later May 11, 2023 30:42


    In the latest episode of Movers, Shakers & Rainmakers, our hosts welcome Lateral Link Managing Director and Southeast market leader, Allie Fennell. They explore the dynamic growth of the legal market in the Southeast, focusing on recent Am Law expansions in Atlanta and Nashville. Allie shares insights on why the Southeast has shown resilience against layoffs compared to other regions and the role of diverse industries in shaping the legal landscape. The conversation delves into the topic of compensation, discussing lawyer salary variability and the strategies firms employ to attract and retain talent. Additionally, they examine the rise of boutiques and midsize firms in Atlanta, their relationships with larger players, and the evolution of the Southeastern markets over the past decade. They wrap up by peering into the future, considering the potential for continued growth and change in this thriving legal landscape. In the "Moves of the Week" segment, our hosts highlight Jon Cohn joining the Lehotsky Keller boutique, now Lehotsky Keller Cohn, and Bradley Arant opening an office in Atlanta.

    Episode 41: 2023 Am Law 100 Rankings - In-Depth Insights & Analysis

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 26, 2023 32:21


    Last week, you immersed yourself in our comprehensive analysis of the 2023 Am Law rankings, which appeared on Above the Law. This week, join us for the latest episode of Movers, Shakers & Rainmakers, where we take a deeper dive into the fascinating details of these eagerly anticipated rankings. Our hosts examine the most notable shifts, spotlighting firms that made significant strides and those that encountered considerable challenges, and discuss the new #1 firm for profits per partner—believed to be the first time in decades that Wachtell Lipton didn't top the list. In our "Moves of the Week" segment, we dissect Covington's strategic expansion into Boston with a life-sciences focus, and Bryan Cave's venture into the Seattle market with a new office, capitalizing on the city's emergence as a litigation hub. Don't miss this captivating and insightful episode. And, as always, be sure to rate, review, and subscribe to stay informed on all the happenings of the legal industry!

    Episode 40: Darren Heitner, Founder, HEITNER LEGAL

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 11, 2023 36:53


    Renowned founder, lawyer, professor, and journalist Darren Heitner joins hosts David Lat and Zach Sandberg in the latest episode of Movers, Shakers & Rainmakers. Together, they delve into the captivating story of a true industry innovator. Darren's extraordinary legal journey, which began with a sports blog in late 2005, soon skyrocketed his career to heights he never initially imagined. In this enthralling conversation, Darren explains the different roles of sports agents and sports lawyers, investigates the nuances of player unions across professional sports leagues, and dispels the alluring image of sports agents as depicted in "Jerry Maguire." Our hosts then interview Darren, widely acknowledged as a leading expert on Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) issues, about the influence NIL has exerted and will continue to exert in the realm of sports. For their moves, Zach brings attention to Orrick's acquisition of a four-partner IP litigation group from Milbank, while  David focuses on Fenwick strengthening its Privacy and Cybersecurity Practice through the addition of partner Michael Sussmann. This episode is an essential listen for law and sports enthusiasts alike. As always, be sure to rate, review and subscribe!

    Episode 39: 2023 Q1 Legal Market Update

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 29, 2023 29:57


    In this exciting new episode of Movers, Shakers & Rainmakers, hosts David Lat and Zach Sandberg offer a comprehensive analysis of the legal market landscape in Q1, providing a fascinating deep dive into the inner workings of the industry. As the first quarter winds down, they examine the current standings and performance of the top Am Law 100 firms, identifying those that have achieved remarkable growth and those that are facing challenges, and they discuss which practice areas are thriving. Their meticulous examination uncovers emerging trends and anticipates what the remainder of 2023 has in store for the legal industry, including the resilience of law firms in the face of economic downturns. For their moves of the week, David and Zach showcase high-profile lateral moves that have made a significant impact on their new firms. David highlights Greenberg Traurig's hiring of former federal prosecutor Kevin G. Walsh in New Jersey, while Zach draws attention to Sheppard Mullin's impressive real estate haul in Texas, featuring a talented team of attorneys with vast experience in complex transactions. This engrossing episode is an essential listen for legal professionals and enthusiasts alike. As always, be sure to rate, review, subscribe and tell a friend!

    Episode 38: Artificial Intelligence (AI) & The Legal World with HAISTACK.AI CTO, Michael Heise

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 14, 2023 33:18


    Are you ready to revolutionize the legal world? On our latest episode of Movers, Shakers & Rainmakers, our hosts interview Michael Heise, legal tech expert and CTO of Haistack.AI, who is at the forefront of transforming the legal industry with its groundbreaking AI software. Join our hosts as they delve into Mike's experience working on the tech side of Biglaw and learn how this expertise has enabled him and the HAISTACK.AI team to build an AI tool that will streamline processes for law firms and legal recruiting agencies. Our hosts and Mike also discuss how AI is already transforming the legal world, and why improvements in this space will only make life easier for lawyers and recruiters alike. For their moves, David draws attention to the retirement of Tom Goldstein, former Managing Partner of Goldstein & Russell and founder of SCOTUSblog, while Zach highlights the news of Joel Moss joining Cahill's New York office as a Bankruptcy and Restructuring Partner, bringing his extensive expertise to the firm's highly regarded practice. As always, be sure to rate, review and subscribe!

    Episode 37: The Washington D.C. Legal Market with Lateral Link Managing Director, Steven Rushing

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 1, 2023 32:40


    In this episode of Movers, Shakers & Rainmakers, our esteemed hosts are joined by Steven Rushing, Managing Director at Lateral Link and leader of our Washington, D.C. team. Steven describes his own time as a practicing IP lawyer and how it has equipped him to be a valuable resource for attorneys as a legal recruiter. He also delves into the D.C. legal market and highlights some of the hottest practice areas, including antitrust and technology transactions. Steven and our hosts also discuss the influence of artificial intelligence on the practice of law, as well as how lawyers can transition from government to private practice with the support of a reliable recruiter. For their moves, David highlights Justice Rolando Acosta's move to the New York office of Pillsbury, while Zach shares Cooley's recent hiring of five corporate partners from Perkins Coie in Denver. For a bonus move, Zach also recognizes the Lateral Link team for their instrumental role in facilitating Milwaukee-based Quarles & Brady's expansion into the Denver area through their merger with boutique intellectual property law firm Adsero IP. To stay updated on the latest industry insights and conversations, be sure to rate, review and subscribe!

    Episode 36: Zain Atassi, Lateral Link Principal & Regional Leader for Chicago

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 16, 2023 26:48


    This week, on Movers, Shakers & Rainmakers, our hosts discuss the legal market in Chicago and the Midwest with Zain Atassi, Lateral Link Principal and leader of the Chicago team. Zain chronicles her journey from practicing as a litigator for six years at various Chicago-based firms before transitioning into legal recruiting. Zain also sheds light on the nature of the Chicago market, what differentiates the city from others, and how firms with a strong midwestern presence might prepare to handle talent acquisition when facing a recession. In covering this week's "major move," Zach highlights an impressive addition by Skadden to their Securities Litigation practice in the Bay Area, while David discusses Elon Musk and Tesla finally hiring a General Counsel. As always, be sure to rate, review, and subscribe!

    Episode 35: Brian Potts, Environment & Energy Partner, Perkins Coie

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 2, 2023 39:12


    Big law partner? Check. Entrepreneur? Check. Inventor? Check. Mentor? Check. This week, on Movers, Shakers & Rainmakers, our hosts are joined by a true mover and shaker, Perkins Coie Environment & Energy partner Brian Potts. Brian is not your typical Biglaw partner and in this episode, he discusses how rejections from every Am Law 200 firm ultimately lead to him launching The Legal Mentor Network, a nonprofit dedicated to connecting law students and recently barred attorneys with legal mentors. Join us as Brian chronicles his legal career from a small-town law school to partnership at Perkins Coie, and the many ventures along the way. For their moves of the week, Zach highlights a group pick-up by Goodwin and David discusses the merger between Atlanta-founded Smith, Gambrell & Russell, and Chicago-based Freeborn & Peters. You don't want to miss this one! As always, be sure to rate, review, and subscribe.  

    Episode 34: Layli Miller-Muro, Founder, Tahirih Justice Center

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 19, 2023 32:45


    Movers, Shakers & Rainmakers is back with our first episode of 2023! This week, our hosts were joined by one of the most impactful guests we've ever had on the show. Layli Miller-Muro, former Biglaw and Department of Justice attorney, founded and led the Tahirih Justice Center for over twenty-five years. In this episode, Layli discusses how some especially impactful pro bono work led to a mission of advocating for women fleeing gender-based asylum and seeking asylum in the United States. Layli describes working with members of Congress on both sides of the aisle, as well as countless attorneys, to assist well over 30,000 women. Finally, Layli digs into the consulting works she has now undertaken in her new professional venture, and her mission to bring ESG (Environmental, Social & Governance) initiatives to fruition within corporations and firms. For their moves of the week, Zach highlights a major infrastructure hire by Paul Hastings in London and David discusses a prominent addition by Paul Weiss. As always, be sure to rate, review, and subscribe!

    Episode 33: 2022 Biglaw Moves, Trends, and 2023 Market Expectations

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 21, 2022 30:04


    Which firms made the most prominent partner hires? Which firms added the most attorneys? And which practice areas were the most impacted by market factors in 2022? Our hosts are back for their final episode of the year to highlight some major moves, trends, and factors that will determine how the market shapes up in 2023. Thank you to all of our listeners and followers for an incredible year! We will be back in January. We wish you a joyous holiday season and a prosperous New Year! And, as always, be sure to rate, review & subscribe!

    Episode 32: Lindsay Hutner, Co-Chair of Greenberg Traurig's Labor & Employment Practice's Employment Litigation & Trials Group

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 8, 2022 33:50


    On the latest episode of Movers, Shakers & Rainmakers, our hosts are joined by Greenberg Traurig Shareholder and Co-Chair of the firm's Labor & Employment Practice's Employment Litigation & Trials Group, Lindsay Hutner. Lindsay discusses how being herself has helped her achieve success in her legal career, what she looks for when building her team at Greenberg, the challenges that she faces with the ever-changing employment laws of California, and what advice she would give younger associates that are trying to come up in the ranks. For their notable moves, David and Zach highlight litigation additions by Boies Schiller Flexner and King & Spalding. As always, be sure to rate, review, and subscribe!

    Episode 31: Tony Thai, CEO & Chief Engineer, HyperDraft Inc.

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 22, 2022 39:40


    On this week's episode of Movers, Shakers & Rainmakers, our hosts are joined by HyperDraft CEO and Chief Engineer, Tony Thai. Tony started his career as a software developer before practicing for several large law firms and companies. In 2021, Tony left his career as an attorney to fully invest his time and energy in building out HyperDraft, a company on the cutting edge of legal technology. Tony tells the story of his unique legal career and explains how HyperDraft seeks to make life easier, more efficient and, most importantly, happier for the attorneys they serve. For their moves of the week, Zach and David highlight major IP additions by Orrick and Greenberg Traurig, as well as MoFo's acquisition of renowned IP boutique firm, Durie Tangri. Also, our hosts discuss the recent news of Harvard and Yale pulling out of the U.S. News Law School rankings and the announcement of law firm bonuses. There's a lot to unpack here during your long Thanksgiving weekend! Don't forget to rate, review & subscribe. Happy Thanksgiving! We are grateful for you, our lovely listeners.

    Episode 30: 2022 Legal Market Roundup (2023 Preview)

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 10, 2022 27:32


    Movers, Shakers & Rainmakers is back for our 30th episode! This week, our hosts dissect the 2022 legal market, discuss how firms are reacting to economic uncertainty, what to expect on end-of-year bonuses, and why there is still optimism that the lateral market will be able to withstand a potential recession. For their moves of the week, David and Zach highlight high-profile hires by Perkins Coie in New York and Venable in Miami. Thank you to all the listeners for helping us get to 30 episodes! The past year has been incredible and we would like to thank everyone for listening and spreading the word. As always, be sure to rate, review, subscribe, and tell a friend about us!

    Episode 29: Caleb Vesey, Corporate Partner, Willkie Farr & Gallagher

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 27, 2022 34:50


    Last week, our hosts were joined by Caleb Vesey, a corporate partner at Willkie Farr & Gallagher. Caleb discussed Wilkie's recent growth, especially in the California market, and what factors are attracting young associates to the firm. Caleb also chronicled his legal journey to partnership at Wilkie, what drove him to move from New York to Los Angeles, and what advice he would give associates trying to make partner. For their moves of the week, David and Zach highlighted significant additions made by Paul Weiss and Willkie Farr & Gallagher. As always, be sure to rate, review & subscribe!

    Episode 28: Marina Torres, Experienced Litigator and Federal Prosecutor

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 6, 2022 30:12


    On this week's episode of Movers, Shakers & Rainmakers, our hosts are joined by Marina Torres, an experienced litigator and federal prosecutor with over 30 trials in federal and state courts, as well as a recent candidate for the post of Los Angeles City Attorney. As the daughter of undocumented Mexican immigrants, Marina discusses her journey into the practice of law, from attending Stanford Law School, to working as an associate at Munger in Los Angeles and WilmerHale in Washington, D.C. She chronicles her political appointment with the Department of Homeland Security under President Obama, where she served as part of the policy team leading the design and implementation of the President's executive actions on immigration. Finally, Marina speaks about the daily call to administer justice as a federal prosecutor, as well her decisions to run for office in an attempt to serve on an even greater scale. Finally, we have a candid conversation about diversity, as our guest offers her insight into ways to better include the Latino community and other underrepresented groups in legal practice. For their moves of the week, David and Zach highlight significant additions by Latham and Covington. As always, be sure to rate, review & subscribe.  

    Episode 27: Laura Zagar, Office Managing Partner, Perkins Coie

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 22, 2022 36:48


    This week on Movers, Shakers & Rainmakers, our hosts chat with Laura Zagar, an energy and environmental lawyer at Perkins Coie, where she serves as Office Managing Partner for San Francisco. Laura discusses trends in the energy- and environmental-law spaces and the trajectory of her own career, including how she entered energy law and how she took on the role of Office Managing Partner. She and our hosts then talk about what Biglaw is doing wrong when it comes to diversity, equity, and inclusion—and how it can do better—along with strategies that have worked for Perkins Coie. For their moves of the week, Zach stays in the energy space and discusses a notable hire by O'Melveny in D.C., while David highlights a white-collar addition by Weil Gotshal in New York. As always, be sure to rate, review & subscribe.

    Episode 26: Christopher D. Ahn, Corporate Partner, Proskauer

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 12, 2022 36:22


    On this week's episode of Movers, Shakers & Rainmakers, we are joined by Chris Ahn, Corporate Partner at Proskauer in Los Angeles. Chris chronicles his journey to making partner, his transition into serving as General Counsel for the esteemed fashion label James Perse, and his ultimate return to the partnership ranks at Proskauer. Chris also discusses what he believes the future will hold for corporate deal flow and why the team at Proskauer will remain a force to be reckoned with in the Los Angeles market. In keeping with tradition, Zach breaks down Loeb & Loeb's addition of Christopher Ott, a Cybersecurity and Privacy Litigation partner, to their D.C. office. Be sure to rate, review & subscribe!

    Episode 25: Explaining The Various Law Firm Rankings

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 24, 2022 29:09


    If you're in the world of Biglaw, odds are you've come across various law firm rankings, including the Vault 100, Am Law 100, Global 100, Legal 500, and Chambers rankings. What are the differences between all these different rankings? What are their uses—and their limitations? How do firms move up or down on these lists? As an attorney, what should you consider when looking at these rankings? Our hosts explain all this and much more in this week's episode of Movers, Shakers & Rainmakers. Also, Zach breaks down a notable hire from the in-house world by Latham & Watkins, while David talks about a leading litigator jumping from Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP to King & Spalding. As always, please be sure to rate, review, and subscribe!

    Episode 24: Chief of Staff of Edelson PC, Kelsey McCann

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 11, 2022 31:36


    On today's episode of Movers, Shakers & Rainmakers, our hosts are joined by the Chief of Staff of Edelson PC, Kelsey McCann, to chat about the exciting world of high-stakes plaintiffs' work. Kelsey discusses Edelson's growth and success, what cases the firm is focusing on and their social impact, and why she thinks young lawyers are looking to join firms that are making a difference in the world. For their moves of the week, David discusses moves into and out of Gibson Dunn, while Zach highlights Perkins Coie adding to its EC/VC practice. As always, be sure to rate, review, and subscribe!

    Episode 23: The Lateral Partner Market

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 28, 2022 36:04


    When we hear the word "recession," typically some panic may kick in. But what does a potential recession mean for the lateral partner market? Gloria Sandrino, Lateral Link Managing Principal and Global Chair of Partner & Group Recruiting, joined our hosts to discuss how a recession might actually present opportunities to partners looking to lateral and to firms seeking new talent. Gloria talks about how firms should think about lateral hiring in relation to big-picture strategy, how firms are preparing for a potential recession by doubling down on office openings in smaller markets, and which practice areas firms are focusing on building in those markets. In keeping with tradition, our hosts—and Gloria—discuss recent office openings by Sidley Austin LLP and Sheppard Mullin Richter & Hampton LLP. As always, be sure to rate, review, and subscribe!

    Episode 22: Justin Savage, Global Co-Leader of the Environmental Practice, Sidley Austin

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 14, 2022 32:15


    With the environment at the forefront of everyone's minds thanks to the recent SCOTUS decision on West Virginia v EPA, our hosts chat with Justin Savage, the global co-leader of the Environmental practice at Sidley Austin LLP. Join Justin and our hosts as they discuss what the decision means, how it will affect the way law firms advise their clients, and its implications for the ESG space. For their moves of the week, our hosts break down Ropes & Gray LLP's recent office opening in Los Angeles and a pair of notable lateral hires by Sidley Austin LLP, including one in Miami. Plenty to unpack. As always, be sure to rate, review, and subscribe!

    Episode 21: Lateral Market Update & Impact of SCOTUS Rulings on Biglaw

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 30, 2022 29:34


    After a short break, Movers, Shakers & Rainmakers: The Biglaw Lateral Market is back with A LOT to unpack! David Lat breaks down SCOTUS rulings from the past two weeks and their impact on Biglaw, while Zach Sandberg discusses which markets are growing in 2022—and how, despite some negative sentiment, the lateral market is actually doing better in 2022 compared to 2021. For their big moves, our hosts discuss the departure of Paul Clement and Erin Murphy from Kirkland & Ellis and recent additions by King & Spalding in California. Please join us as you begin your long July 4th weekend, and be sure to rate, review, and subscribe! 

    Episode 20: Andre Gharakhanian, Founder, Silicon Legal Strategy

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 9, 2022 39:18


    This week, on Movers, Shakers & Rainmakers: The Biglaw Lateral Market, our hosts chat with a true gamechanger in the legal world: Andre Gharakhanian, the founder of Silicon Legal Strategy. Andre joins our hosts to discuss what 2021 was like for Emerging Companies and Venture Capital ("EC/VC") deals, how the booming market is still going strong in 2022, how the culture he has created at Silicon Legal Strategy has helped grow the firm to incredible heights in a very short period of time, and what he expects for the future of his firm and EC/VC practice in general. Our hosts also dive into recent shake-ups in the legal world made by Allen & Overy, Goodwin, and Cravath, Swaine & Moore LLP. As always, be sure to like, follow, and subscribe. 

    Episode 19: Craig Brown, CEO, Bridgeline Solutions

    Play Episode Listen Later May 26, 2022 33:39


    Welcome back to Movers, Shakers & Rainmakers! This week, our hosts chat with Bridgeline Solutions CEO and a pioneer in the legal staffing industry, Craig Brown. Last week, Craig co-chaired the 2022 Milton Handler Lecture in New York, and he joined our hosts to discuss the history of the event and the newsworthy speech of the Assistant Attorney General of the Department of Justice Antitrust Division, Jonathan Kanter. Also, our hosts break down the Winston and Kirkland office openings in Miami, as well as Covington's hiring of a former top official at the FTC. Tons to unpack! Be sure to tune in, rate, review, and subscribe.

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