Podcasts about big law

Too many professionals pursue prestige and big paydays, only to feel trapped in exhausting, unfulfilling careers. Nowhere is that more obvious than in Big Law, where young attorneys trade passion for paychecks—often at the cost of burnout, depression, and a life they never wanted.Bill Reid broke that mold. As a nationally recognized trial lawyer and co-founder of Reid Collins, he's spent decades taking on corporate giants—banks, accounting firms, and institutions most people thought were untouchable. In his new book, Fighting Bullies: The Case for a Career in Plaintiffs' Law, he reveals the truth behind Big Law's broken model and shows why pursuing passion and purpose leads not only to success, but to freedom.What makes Bill's story resonate far beyond the legal world is the life he's designed along the way—one of wealth, health, impact, and experiences that his peers envy. His journey is proof that you don't have to sacrifice your freedom to build real prosperity.In this episode, you'll learn: 1.) Why Big Law traps so many young attorneys—and how to avoid falling into the same paycheck-driven path.2.) How AI is disrupting industries like law—automating tasks like document review and contracts, and forcing efficiency over billable hours.3.) Bill's blueprint for an “epic life”—balancing high-stakes work, entrepreneurship, health, and unforgettable experiences with friends and family.Show Notes: LifestyleInvestor.com/258Tax Strategy MasterclassIf you're interested in learning more about Tax Strategy and how YOU can apply 28 of the best, most effective strategies right away, check out our BRAND NEW Tax Strategy Masterclass: www.lifestyleinvestor.com/taxStrategy Session For a limited time, my team is hosting free, personalized consultation calls to learn more about your goals and determine which of our courses or masterminds will get you to the next level. To book your free session, visit LifestyleInvestor.com/consultationThe Lifestyle Investor InsiderJoin The Lifestyle Investor Insider, our brand new AI - curated newsletter - FREE for all podcast listeners for a limited time: www.lifestyleinvestor.com/insiderRate & ReviewIf you enjoyed today's episode of The Lifestyle Investor, hit the subscribe button on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen, so future episodes are automatically downloaded directly to your device. You can also help by providing an honest rating & review.Connect with Justin DonaldFacebookYouTubeInstagramLinkedInTwitterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Biglaw capitulators face new challenge and James Comey gets indicted. ----- Perennially embattled Cooley Law School once again called out by the ABA over sagging bar passage rates. The school has been out of compliance with ABA standards since 2020, and now finds itself on probation with its accreditor. The last time something like this happened, Cooley sued the ABA into relenting. History is a flat circle. After learning that Paul Weiss and Kirkland were providing free legal services to the Commerce Department, presumably in an effort to satisfy their pro bono payola obligations, we wondered how this could possibly be legal in light of 31 U.S.C. 1342. Apparently, lawmakers wondered the same thing. And James Comey finds himself indicted after a whirlwind that involved removing the existing top federal prosecutor for refusing to file a sham case and replacing him with an in-over-her-head Florida insurance lawyer.

Jeannie Rhee is one of the nation's leading litigators, with the awards and accolades to prove it—including, most recently, recognition last month from Forbes as one of America's Top 250 Lawyers. But her legal career is not only impressive; it's also very interesting.The past few years have been extremely eventful for Jeannie. From 2017 until 2019, she worked on a matter you might have heard of: special counsel Robert Mueller's investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election. She then became a partner in the Washington, D.C. office of Paul Weiss—her professional home until May 2025, when she and several other partners left (itself a newsworthy event).Together with top trial lawyers Karen Dunn (a past podcast guest) and Bill Isaacson, Jeannie co-founded Dunn Isaacson Rhee—in my opinion, the most exciting new firm to launch in 2025 to date. And since starting DIR, Jeannie continues to handle headline-making cases—most notably, the federal government's antitrust case against Google.Why did Jeannie and her partners leave Paul Weiss? What is their vision for DIR as a firm? Looking back in light of recent events, what does she think about her work on the Mueller investigation? We covered all this and more, including Jeannie's service as a D.C. federal prosecutor and at the Justice Department's Office of Legal Counsel, in the latest Original Jurisdiction podcast.Show Notes:* Jeannie S. Rhee bio, Dunn Isaacson Rhee LLP* Jeannie Rhee profile, Chambers and Partners* Ex-Paul Weiss Stars Balance Big Law Ties, Autonomy at Firm, by Tatyana Monnay for Bloomberg LawPrefer reading to listening? For paid subscribers, a transcript of the entire episode appears below.Sponsored by:NexFirm helps Biglaw attorneys become founding partners. To learn more about how NexFirm can help you launch your firm, call 212-292-1000 or email careerdevelopment at nexfirm dot com. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit davidlat.substack.com/subscribe

If you have built your BigLaw career around a thriving regulatory or enforcement practice, you know how difficult it can be for you and your practice when that work suddenly isn't there. One month you are buried in nvestigations motivated by government inquiries or merger reviews, and the next your phone goes quiet because enforcement priorities shifted, agency budgets got cut, or a new administration has redirected resources. It is unsettling, especially when your brand, reputation and and client base are tied to that flow of work. In this episode, I walk through the reality of what it can feel like and what to do when your once-busy enforcement and regulatory practice slows. I share how to distinguish between cyclical downturns and structural changes that reshape a practice like this long term, and share some specific examples across areas such as FCPA, antitrust, and privacy to illustrate how BigLaw attorneys can pivot effectively. I also outline practical steps to stay visible with clients as well as inside your firm so that even when the billable work is not there, your value and future opportunities are. At a Glance: 00:00 Introduction need to navigate BigLaw downturns in regulatory and enforcement work 01:20 When busy practices suddenly dry up: regulatory shifts and enforcement changes 02:14 How external forces such as politics, budgets, and agency leadership reshape your practice overnight 03:03 Early warning signs that your work is slowing down in these areas 03:37 The emotional impact: anxiety, uncertainty, and fear of career derailment 04:08 Diagnosing cyclical vs. structural downturns with concrete indicators 05:16 Why this distinction matters for your long-term career strategy 05:39 Examples of temporary pivots that kept practices alive (FCPA, antitrust, GDPR, privacy) 07:04 How lawyers can broaden their practices to adapt to structural changes 08:08 The importance of proactive client communication, including with “good news” updates 09:37 What to do when billable hours stall: seeking work across departments and staying visible 10:41 Positioning yourself as a thought leader through articles, CLEs, and conferences 11:29 Documenting outreach, cross-practice contributions, and client loyalty for firm leadership 12:21 Demonstrating cross-practice value: aligning with busier groups inside your firm 13:30 How client loyalty and referrals strengthen your standing even in slow periods 13:58 Reframing your practice to be less narrowly defined by one enforcement area 14:27 How one partner survived cuts by documenting value and broadening expertise 15:16 Long-game mindset: showing your firm that you are indispensable beyond billable hours Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts & Spotify Do you enjoy listening to Big Law Life?  Please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps support and reach more people like you who want to grow a career in Big Law.  For Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven't done so already, follow the podcast here!  For Spotify, tap here on your mobile phone, follow the podcast, listen to the show, then find the rating icon below the description, and tap to rate with five stars. Interested in doing 1-2-1 coaching with Laura Terrell? Or learning more about her work coaching and consulting? Here are ways to reach out to her: www.lauraterrell.com  laura@lauraterrell.com   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauralterrell/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraterrellcoaching/  Show notes: https://www.lauraterrell.com/podcast

Biglaw capitulators face new challenge and James Comey gets indicted. ----- Perennially embattled Cooley Law School once again called out by the ABA over sagging bar passage rates. The school has been out of compliance with ABA standards since 2020, and now finds itself on probation with its accreditor. The last time something like this happened, Cooley sued the ABA into relenting. History is a flat circle. After learning that Paul Weiss and Kirkland were providing free legal services to the Commerce Department, presumably in an effort to satisfy their pro bono payola obligations, we wondered how this could possibly be legal in light of 31 U.S.C. 1342. Apparently, lawmakers wondered the same thing. And James Comey finds himself indicted after a whirlwind that involved removing the existing top federal prosecutor for refusing to file a sham case and replacing him with an in-over-her-head Florida insurance lawyer. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, host Kathryn Rubino chats with Marc Brown, a dynamic attorney and Big Dave's Cheesesteaks franchise owner. Marc opens up about his non-linear career path from Biglaw to founding his own successful firm, sharing insights on the fulfilling shift to plaintiff's work and the challenges of running a business. Aspiring lawyers and entrepreneurs alike will find inspiration in Marc's journey of pursuing passion over convention and learning to balance career and life. Tune in for a mix of legal wisdom and the secret to a perfect cheesesteak!.   Episode Highlights Childhood dream of becoming a lawyer Reality vs. TV portrayal of law work Unplanned career path: Starting a law firm Shift from Biglaw to plaintiff's work Dealing with emotionally challenging cases Transition to owning a law firm Lessons from running a personal injury firm Challenges of starting a new practice Importance of experience before starting a firm Franchise opportunity with Big Dave's Balancing multiple business ventures Career highlight: Marc Brown Legal Minute Learning from career lows and losses   Episode Sponsored By  https://www.lexisnexis.com/lexisplus   Links and Resources https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcusjbrown/  https://www.marcbrownlawfirm.com/  https://www.bigdavesway.com/    Subscribe, Share and Review To get the next episode subscribe with your favorite podcast player. Subscribe with Apple Podcasts Follow on Spotify Leave a review on Apple Podcasts  

The proliferation of head injuries and concussions in women's sport globally is shaping up to be significant for insurers and litigators. Here, a BigLaw partner unpacks the landscape, and what it all means for lawyers moving forward. Host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Clyde & Co partner Janine Clark about her work as a catastrophic injury practitioner and why it's of such interest to her, being “the balance” between injured persons and insurance premiums, how and why concussion in women's sport has become such a talking point, and what's happening in ongoing class actions in this space. Clark also delves into why this will be a growing area of litigation moving forward, whether such litigation could be akin to the proliferation of asbestos-related claims in a previous era, the implications for lawyers like herself, what constitutes best practice for lawyers like herself, and how to ensure optimal client service delivery in the future. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, X and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email editor@lawyersweekly.com.au

Law firm fires lawyer over Kirk comments and law school announces new scholarships. ----- Perkins Coie cut ties with an attorney over Charlie Kirk comments on social media. The remarks were measured and reasonable, but the firm is still fighting the Trump administration in court and -- seemingly -- does not want any distractions or mere appearance of bias. But is that a worthy excuse? A Pillsbury partner received a benchslapping over what the judge considered unchecked entitlement. A Biglaw partner? Entitled? No! Also, a law school responds to the new federal loan caps with guaranteed scholarships to cover the gap. Is this the start of a trend?

Collaboration can feel like a buzzword that doesn't align with how law firms actually reward people. Hours and origination credit often outweigh teamwork, and silos, competition, and fee pressures make working together seem like an uphill battle. But here's the truth: collaboration isn't optional if you want to grow in BigLaw. Clients expect seamless service across firms and practices, and internally within your firm, collaboration expands your visibility, strengthens trust, and opens doors to opportunities might never get on your own. In this episode, I break down the real obstacles that make collaboration so difficult and share practical strategies for overcoming them. I cover traps like silos, credit battles, and disorganized matter management, and I explain how clarifying roles, overcommunicating, and sharing credit generously can transform how you're perceived by clients and colleagues. I also share real stories, both successes and failures, that show exactly what's at stake when collaboration works and when it doesn't. At a Glance: 00:00 Why collaboration is rarely rewarded in BigLaw but is still essential to success 01:20 How client expectations drive the need for cross-practice teamwork 03:17 Why silos, competition, and fee pressure derail collaboration 04:52 Common traps: “eat what you kill,” clashing work styles, and version chaos 06:32 Practical strategies: clarify roles, align early, and use firm tools effectively 07:26 How overcommunication early prevents wasted time and turf wars later 08:11 Adapting to partner preferences and sharing credit generously 09:34 Soft skills that make collaboration work: listening, empathy, and conflict resolution 11:04 Case study: how a global deal team aligned as “one voice” and won repeat business 12:17 Late-night collaboration between associates that built goodwill with a client 13:15 A cautionary tale of poor version control that damaged client trust and associate morale 14:26 Why collaboration is not optional, it's critical to reputation, client service, and career growth Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts & Spotify Do you enjoy listening to Big Law Life?  Please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps support and reach more people like you who want to grow a career in Big Law.  For Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven't done so already, follow the podcast here!  For Spotify, tap here on your mobile phone, follow the podcast, listen to the show, then find the rating icon below the description, and tap to rate with five stars. Interested in doing 1-2-1 coaching with Laura Terrell? Or learning more about her work coaching and consulting? Here are ways to reach out to her: www.lauraterrell.com  laura@lauraterrell.com   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauralterrell/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraterrellcoaching/  Show notes: https://www.lauraterrell.com/podcast

Law firm fires lawyer over Kirk comments and law school announces new scholarships. ----- Perkins Coie cut ties with an attorney over Charlie Kirk comments on social media. The remarks were measured and reasonable, but the firm is still fighting the Trump administration in court and -- seemingly -- does not want any distractions or mere appearance of bias. But is that a worthy excuse? A Pillsbury partner received a benchslapping over what the judge considered unchecked entitlement. A Biglaw partner? Entitled? No! Also, a law school responds to the new federal loan caps with guaranteed scholarships to cover the gap. Is this the start of a trend? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On today's episode of On The Merits we hear from three lawyers working in the white hot world of data center projects. Mike Rechtin and Justin Stolte are, respectively, real estate and energy partners with Latham & Watkins, and Michelle Kallen is an appellate and advocacy partner at Steptoe. "The latest number that I've seen is a $50 billion annual investment in the data center construction area by 2030," Stolte tells Roy Strom. Stolte talks about how his firm has organized to address the explosion of generative AI and the infrastructure that supports it. Latham real estate partner Rechtin talks about the unique skill set that made him the perfect fit for the niche pursuit, and Steptoe's Kallen tells Jessie Kokrda Kamens about the rapidly evolving regulatory challenges that a robust infrastructure practice faces. Do you have feedback on this episode of On The Merits? Give us a call and leave a voicemail at 703-341-3690.

John is joined by William T. Reid IV, Senior Founding Partner of Reid Collins & Tsai LLP, and author of Fighting Bullies: The Case for a Career in Plaintiff's Law.  They discuss Bill's view that young lawyers are too often funneled into BigLaw careers before they understand the full range of options available in the legal profession—particularly plaintiffs' work.The impetus for Bill's book came from his experience teaching at the University of Texas School of Law and advising students who often expressed frustration at the lack of career guidance and exposure to alternative paths.  The law school hiring process, particularly the On-Campus Interview (OCI) process, now often takes place in January of the students' first year—rather than the fall of the students' second year.  This, Bill believes, is too soon for the students to have meaningful legal experience or career insights.  The result is a “conveyor belt” that locks students into BigLaw roles primarily for the salary, often at the expense of passion, fulfillment, and long-term satisfaction.Bill's book makes the case for the personal and professional rewards of plaintiffs' practice.  He emphasizes that his firm, Reid Collins, generally only brings cases after extensive pre-suit investigation.  This selectivity allows him to accept cases he believes in which brings deep meaning and satisfaction to his work.  He argues that plaintiffs' lawyers, especially those focused on commercial and institutional wrongdoing, play a vital societal role by holding wrongdoers accountable, especially when government agencies fail to act.  While not every case—or plaintiff's lawyer—meets a high moral bar, the ability to choose meaningful work and act on principle often leads to a highly satisfying career in law.Finally, John and Bill also discuss the evolution of the legal profession, including how artificial intelligence may reshape law firm structures by increasing efficiency and altering the traditional BigLaw pyramid.  These changes may lead to firms pursuing alternative billing structures to traditional hourly billing.Podcast Link: Law-disrupted.fmHost: John B. Quinn Producer: Alexis HydeMusic and Editing by: Alexander Rossi

Elise Holtzman left Big Law to raise her children, without a clear roadmap for what came next. Now she's a leadership coach and founder of The Lawyer's Edge, helping lawyers build confidence, develop business skills, and grow professionally. In this episode, Elise shares the mindset shifts that led her from practicing law to coaching those still in the field.LAWYER SIDE HUSTLESWhat began as a curiosity became a calling. Elise explored executive coaching and soon realized she could use her background in law to serve other lawyers. That side interest eventually became The Lawyer's Edge, which she now runs full-time, offering coaching programs, firm-wide trainings, and a popular podcast.“I didn't set out to start a business. I set out to help people,” Elise Holtzman shares in Episode 210 of You Are a Lawyer.Elise's story shows how side projects can evolve into full-fledged careers. By paying attention to what energized her, and what drained her, she built a business that supports both her clients and her life. She encourages other lawyers to give themselves permission to try something new, even if it starts small.LISTEN TO LEARNHow to overcome the fear of leaving traditional law practiceWhat lawyers actually need when it comes to leadership and business developmentHow to build a coaching business tailored to legal professionalsWE ALSO DISCUSSThe identity crisis many lawyers face when stepping away from the professionWhy law school doesn't prepare you to be a leader or entrepreneurHow to balance motherhood and career reinventionJoin the FREE mailing list!Get behind-the-scenes content from You Are A Lawyer. 1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!Interact with You Are A LawyerKyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast. Follow the podcast:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@youarealawyerWebsite: https://www.youarealawyer.com

As Omar Little of The Wire famously quipped, “When you come at the king, you best not miss.” It's a very true saying—and an apt title for the third book by prosecutor turned bestselling author Elie Honig, When You Come at the King: Inside DOJ's Pursuit of the President, from Nixon to Trump.Special counsel Jack Smith investigated and prosecuted Donald Trump. But before either of Smith's two cases could go to trial, Trump was reelected. Now Jack Smith finds himself under investigation—by the administration of a president who declared that Smith should be “considered mentally deranged” and “thrown out of the country.”In the meantime, what will happen to the institution of the special counsel, during the administration of a president who is clearly not a fan? That's one of many topics I tackled in my conversation with Elie Honig. We also discussed his journey for prosecution to punditry, highlights from his time as an assistant U.S. attorney, and how today's Supreme Court might rule if asked to review the constitutionality of the Justice Department regulations that made Jack Smith's investigation possible.Thanks to Elie for joining me—and congratulations to him on his latest book.Show Notes:* Elie Honig bio, Wikipedia* When You Come at the King: Inside DOJ's Pursuit of the President, from Nixon to Trump, AmazonPrefer reading to listening? For paid subscribers, a transcript of the entire episode appears below.Sponsored by:NexFirm helps Biglaw attorneys become founding partners. To learn more about how NexFirm can help you launch your firm, call 212-292-1000 or email careerdevelopment at nexfirm dot com. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit davidlat.substack.com/subscribe

One of the toughest parts of BigLaw life is dealing with unclear or contradictory instructions. Partners often send cryptic emails, clients can be vague, and deadlines shift without explanation. You can waste hours second-guessing what a partner really wants. Or you can get smart about how to deal with ambiguity and recognize that mastering it is part of the job in BigLaw.  In this episode, I share the practical strategies you can use to navigate those moments, from clarifying vague assignments without pestering, to using timeboxing and judgment calls when no direction is available. I also explain how to read a partner's “ambiguity profile” so you can adapt to their style and avoid unnecessary frustration. At a Glance: 00:00 Why ambiguity is built into BigLaw and why clear instructions are the exception rather than the rule 01:20 How partner communication shortcuts and client vagueness create trickle-down uncertainty 02:39 Common scenarios such as three-sentence emails, vague quick overviews, and missing context 03:51 Four practical tools to navigate unclear assignments: clarify, timebox, skeleton outlines, and judgment 05:07 Examples of clarifying questions that suggest options and avoid over delivering 06:11 Why timeboxing prevents wasted hours and misaligned deep dives 06:38 Using a one pager or outline to confirm direction before investing too much time 07:30 When judgment is the only option and how to demonstrate initiative with uncertain asks 08:53 Reframing ambiguity as an opportunity to show judgment rather than a test of failure 10:19 Why forward progress matters more than perfection in firm culture 11:19 Understanding a partner's ambiguity profile and adapting to different supervision styles 12:40 Practical tactics for working with partners who do not respond, do not realize they are vague, or want independence 13:22 Why ambiguity is normal in BigLaw and how associates who thrive are those who navigate it 14:05 Final advice: treat ambiguity like a puzzle, not a problem Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts & Spotify Do you enjoy listening to Big Law Life?  Please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps support and reach more people like you who want to grow a career in Big Law.  For Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven't done so already, follow the podcast here!  For Spotify, tap here on your mobile phone, follow the podcast, listen to the show, then find the rating icon below the description, and tap to rate with five stars. Interested in doing 1-2-1 coaching with Laura Terrell? Or learning more about her work coaching and consulting? Here are ways to reach out to her: www.lauraterrell.com  laura@lauraterrell.com   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauralterrell/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraterrellcoaching/  Show notes: https://www.lauraterrell.com/podcast  

This Day in Legal History: Nuremberg Laws EnactedOn this day in legal history, September 15, 1935, Nazi Germany enacted the Nuremberg Laws, codifying one of the most infamous legal frameworks of racial discrimination and hate in modern history. Announced at the annual Nazi Party rally in Nuremberg, these laws included the Law for the Protection of German Blood and German Honor, the Reich Citizenship Law, and later, the Law for the Protection of the Hereditary Health of the German People. Together, they stripped Jews of German citizenship, prohibited marriage and sexual relations between Jews and “Aryans,” and laid the groundwork for systematic persecution.The Reich Citizenship Law divided citizens into two classes: full citizens, who were of "German or related blood," and subjects, who were denied full political rights. Jews were relegated to the latter category. The Law for the Protection of German Blood and German Honor banned intermarriage and extramarital relations between Jews and Germans, criminalizing personal relationships based on ancestry. Violators could be imprisoned or sent to concentration camps.To enforce these laws, the Nazi regime devised elaborate charts and pseudoscientific metrics to assess Jewish ancestry, culminating in a 1936 chart issued by the Reich Health Office. This visual aid defined citizens by the number of Jewish grandparents they had, assigning labels like Mischling (mixed race) to those with partial Jewish heritage. Even one Jewish grandparent could strip a person of civil rights.The Law for the Protection of the Hereditary Health of the German People added a eugenic dimension, requiring couples to undergo genetic testing before marriage and barring those deemed "genetically unfit" from reproducing. These legal measures normalized state-sponsored racism and laid a legal foundation for the Holocaust.Big Law firm Perkins Coie terminated an attorney over a social media post that appeared to criticize conservative figure Charlie Kirk following his shooting death. The firm stated the post did not align with its values and that the lawyer's conduct fell significantly below professional expectations. The firing was made effective immediately. Kirk, 31, served as executive director of Turning Point USA and was a prominent supporter of Donald Trump. He was fatally shot while speaking at an event at Utah Valley University. Perkins Coie has a history of political entanglements, notably becoming one of the first law firms to sue Trump after his executive orders targeted firms representing political adversaries. These orders reportedly restricted access to federal facilities, revoked security clearances, and jeopardized client contracts. The firm was a particular focus for Trump due to its work during Hillary Clinton's 2016 campaign, including hiring Fusion GPS to conduct research that led to the Steele dossier, which alleged ties between Trump's campaign and the Russian government.Perkins Coie Fires Attorney Over Social Media Post on Kirk ShootingU.S. District Judge Timothy Kelly extended a temporary block on the deportation of unaccompanied Guatemalan children with active immigration cases. The move halts a Trump-era effort that attempted to deport 76 minors without proper notice or legal process, including waking children in the early hours of August 31 to board planes. The judge's ruling followed a contentious September 10 hearing, where he criticized a Justice Department attorney for falsely claiming that all the children's parents had requested their return. A report from the Guatemalan Attorney General's Office later revealed that most parents couldn't be located, and many of those found did not want their children repatriated.The children in question mostly come from Guatemala's Indigenous, rural regions—Huehuetenango, San Marcos, Quiché, and Alta Verapaz—areas known for high poverty and malnutrition. Guatemalan officials emphasized that such a large-scale repatriation request was unprecedented. Some families reportedly mortgaged their homes to finance the children's migration, indicating the high stakes involved.US judge extends block on deportations of unaccompanied Guatemalan migrant children | ReutersU.S. District Judge William Alsup ruled that the Trump administration unlawfully directed the mass firing of around 25,000 federal probationary employees earlier this year. These workers, many of whom had served in their roles for less than a year, were dismissed under a directive from the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) in February. The mass terminations sparked lawsuits from unions, nonprofits, and the state of Washington, arguing the firings lacked legal justification.Judge Alsup found that the OPM's directive was unlawful and "pretextual," noting the terminations were falsely framed as performance-related. While he acknowledged that the workers had been harmed, he declined to order their reinstatement, citing recent U.S. Supreme Court rulings limiting judicial power over executive branch hiring and firing decisions. Specifically, the Supreme Court had previously paused a preliminary injunction in April that would have reinstated 17,000 employees.Despite not ordering reinstatement, Alsup mandated that 19 federal agencies, including Defense, Veterans Affairs, and Treasury, correct the employment records of affected workers by November 14. He also prohibited agencies from continuing to follow OPM's original directive. Union leaders praised the decision for confirming the firings were baseless and for requiring agencies to acknowledge the false rationale behind the terminations.Trump administration unlawfully directed mass US worker terminations, judge rules | ReutersThe University of California, Berkeley confirmed it had shared information on 160 students, faculty, and staff with the Trump administration, in response to a federal investigation into alleged antisemitism. The data was provided to the U.S. Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights as part of an ongoing probe linked to pro-Palestinian protests on campus. The university stated that it acted under legal obligation while striving to protect individual privacy and notified those affected.This move comes amid a broader effort by the Trump administration to penalize universities accused of allowing antisemitic behavior, particularly during recent demonstrations opposing Israel's actions in Gaza. Critics argue that the administration is conflating political protest and advocacy for Palestinian rights with antisemitism, raising serious concerns about free speech, academic freedom, and due process.Trump has threatened to cut federal funding to institutions involved in such protests and attempted to deport foreign student demonstrators, though those efforts have faced legal challenges. The administration has already reached high-profile settlements with Columbia and Brown universities and is in ongoing talks with Harvard. A proposed $1 billion settlement with UCLA was publicly rejected by California Governor Gavin Newsom, who called it extortion.UC Berkeley shares information on dozens of students, staff with Trump administration | Reuters This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.minimumcomp.com/subscribe

Tune in to the latest Jabot episode as host Kathryn Rubino chats with Margot Hoppin, co-founder of Hoppin Grinsell. Discover the challenges and victories of starting a law firm post- COVID, the impact of AI in law, and the real deal on work-life balance.   Highlights Transition from Biglaw to founding a boutique firm. Trend of starting new firms post-COVID. Time-tracking challenges of running a law firm. Growth milestone: hiring and team development. Balancing work demands with personal time-off goals. Importance of cash flow management in a small firm. Key learnings: experience in running a law firm. Impact of AI on traditional law firm structures. Maintaining firm culture during growth. Benefits of transparency in a smaller law firm. Valuing open communication and addressing knowledge gaps.   Episode Sponsored By  https://www.lexisnexis.com/lexisplus   Links and Resources https://www.hoppingrinsell.com/team/margot-hoppin    Subscribe, Share and Review To get the next episode subscribe with your favorite podcast player. Subscribe with Apple Podcasts Follow on Spotify Leave a review on Apple Podcasts

5 Reasons to Use a Big Law Firm.

Profitability is a word that makes many lawyers cringe. We know firms measure it, but the methods and metrics often feel murky—or worse, toxic to firm culture. Still, ignoring profitability is not an option if you want to succeed and thrive in BigLaw. In this episode, I break down what profitability really means inside large firms, why it's far more than just gross billings, and how to take control of the numbers that impact your compensation, partnership prospects, and long-term career.  From cost structures and volume to realization and collections, I share how firms evaluate lawyers and practices, and the concrete steps you can take to ensure you're seen as a profitable and valuable member of your firm. At a Glance: 00:00 Why profitability is uncomfortable for many lawyers but unavoidable in firm evaluations 01:20 Why profitability metrics can feel toxic and how firms define them in different ways 02:39 Revenue versus profitability—why $5 million billed doesn't mean $5 million in profit 03:59 Partner cost per revenue dollar and how staffing models impact profitability 05:10 High-volume, lower-margin practices versus high-margin, resource-intensive matters 07:11 Comparing a $15 million practice with 15% margin to an $8 million practice with 30% margin 08:12 Why collections matter more than billings if the firm isn't getting paid 08:41 Understanding your standard rate, average billed rate, and why the gap matters 10:06 Realization rate explained with examples and what your firm expects from you 12:38 Collections as the true test of profitability and what firms conclude about lawyers who can't collect 14:18 The risks of unreliable clients, poor billing practices, or weak client control 15:28 How cost allocations and overhead factor into your profitability picture 16:22 Using dashboards, financial analysts, and legal operations pros to understand your data 17:13 Asking the right questions of CFOs and practice leaders to align with benchmarks 17:36 Why profitability is multi-dimensional and how to shift the conversation from toxic to strategic Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts & Spotify Do you enjoy listening to Big Law Life?  Please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps support and reach more people like you who want to grow a career in Big Law.  For Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven't done so already, follow the podcast here!  For Spotify, tap here on your mobile phone, follow the podcast, listen to the show, then find the rating icon below the description, and tap to rate with five stars. Interested in doing 1-2-1 coaching with Laura Terrell? Or learning more about her work coaching and consulting? Here are ways to reach out to her: www.lauraterrell.com  laura@lauraterrell.com   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauralterrell/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraterrellcoaching/  Show notes: https://www.lauraterrell.com/podcast  

Midlevel associates at major law firms report dissatisfaction with outdated laptops, slow software, and inadequate remote access, despite increased investments in artificial intelligence. Over half of surveyed Am Law 200 firms had associates who identified technology as a primary concern, with specific complaints directed at firms such as Cahill Gordon & Reindel, Paul Hastings, Dechert, and Morrison & Foerster. Some firms, including O'Melveny & Myers and Morgan Lewis & Bockius, received positive recognition for providing reliable technology and support. The survey results highlight a gap between advanced tech initiatives and the need for functional, everyday tools to support productivity.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Status Check with Spivey, Mike Spivey hosts Trey Cox, co-chair of Gibson Dunn's global litigation practice group, on his legal career (4:18, 31:27), law school selection (9:20), hiring philosophies (16:42), and advice for aspiring law students and lawyers.Trey and Mike both recommend the book Brain Rules by John Medina, which you can learn more about here.You can listen and subscribe to Status Check with Spivey on ⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠. You can read a full transcript of this episode (with timestamps) here.

Andrew is a Harvard Law School graduate and currently works as the Chief Legal Officer and Corporate Secretary at Panorama Education. Andrew's journey is one marked by innovation, self-discovery, and seizing opportunities when they arise. Andrew and I started before he entered Harvard Law School at Harvard University. After graduating from undergraduate, he would have a short stint in the consulting world, but decided Law School would be the next path. Motivated to stay near his friends and continue to get to play the cello, Andrew would enter the doors of Harvard Law School, a familiar, but at the same time, unfamiliar place to be. Andrew would speak about the various internships he held throughout Law School, from the Justice Department to litigation. Andrew was able to tease out important insights about what the future of his career would look like. Following Law School, Andrew would enter the world of BigLaw, landing himself a spot at one of the largest firms in the world, Latham & Watkins. Andrew would speak on this experience, and also how this would lead to his next job at Promontory Financial Group. Andrew would get the opportunity to build Promontory to the highest of heights. Andrew then spoke about his teaching career both in Law School and at Business school, noting how much he enjoys seeing his students grow over time, and beyond the classroom. Finally, we spoke about the amazing actions he is taking at where he works today, Panorama Education, helping schools around the country find ways to better serve every student body! This episode with Andrew is one of my favorites I have ever recorded, just for the pure fact that Andrew covers all the necessities you need to not only lead a successful legal career, but a life full of fulfillment! Andrew's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewtingBe sure to check out the Official Sponsors for the Lawyers in the Making Podcast:Rhetoric - takes user briefs and motions and compares them against the text of opinions written by judges to identify ways to tailor their arguments to better persuade the judges handling their cases. Rhetoric's focus is on persuasion and helps users find new ways to improve their odds of success through more persuasive arguments. Find them here: userhetoric.comThe Law School Operating System™ Recorded Course - This course is for ambitious law students who want a proven, simple system to learn every topic in their classes to excel in class and on exams. Go to www.lisablasser.com, check out the student tab with course offerings, and use code LSOSNATE10 at checkout for 10% off Lisa's recorded course!Start LSAT - Founded by former guest and 21-year-old super-star, Alden Spratt, Start LSAT was built upon breaking down barriers, allowing anyone access to high-quality LSAT Prep. For $110 you get yourself the Start LSAT self-paced course, and using code LITM10 you get 10% off the self-paced course! Check out Alden and Start LSAT at startlsat.com and use code LITM10 for 10% off the self-paced course!Lawyers in the Making Podcast is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Lawyers in the Making Podcast at lawyersinthemaking.substack.com/subscribe

A memo from law firm King & Spalding to its associates saying they need to log 2,400 "productive hours" a year surprised some in the legal world. But today's guest on our podcast, On The Merits, says it shouldn't have. It's always been the case that lawyers need to go beyond meeting their billable hours quotas and put in some non-billable hours in order to advance their careers, according to Jessica Chin Somers, a former Big Law attorney and current managing director at Kinney Recruiting. King & Spalding just wrote down what was essentially a legal industry unwritten rule, she said. Chin Somers talked to Bloomberg Law editor Jessie Kokrda Kamens about why associates might need to have this policy spelled out and about how they can get ahead even when they're not working on client matters. Do you have feedback on this episode of On The Merits? Give us a call and leave a voicemail at 703-341-3690.

In this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with Cybertify, we unpack why legal practices are increasingly such attractive targets for cyber criminals, the ways they get past defences, and what firms can do to ensure that the “doors are locked”. Host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with William Welch, the principal solutions architect for the legal sector and AI security at Cybertify, about who the company is and the work he does, why the risks inherent with cyber security are so much more prominent for Australian law firms at present, why every business is a potential target, the need for “locked doors”, why law firm owners aren't fully across the dangers, and the lessons and takeaways from recent breaches in the legal space. Welch also delves into what BigLaw practices need to be doing right now, ensuring systems are talking to each other properly and having the right point people, what SMEs must be doing at present, the questions those smaller firms need to be asking, overcoming concerns about being time-poor, understanding the changing landscape, and how best Cybertify can help. To learn more about Cybertify, click here.

5 Reasons To Use Big Law Instead Of Small Law.

There is much that BigLaw partner Martina Storgato has learnt about cultivating one's place in the legal profession – chief among those lessons is that, when building a network and one's reputation, it is better to view others as colleagues, not the competition. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Mills Oakley partner Martina Storgato about her work in family law, how she's managed that practice area while also having a family of her own, at what stage of her career she realised the importance of building a network and reputation, whether she has a guiding principle for doing so, and taking a nuanced approach to generating business in idiosyncratic practice areas. Storgato also delves into whether the advent of AI and other emerging technologies supports the idea of being nuanced in one's approach to clientele and business generation, the biggest lessons she's learnt about building and maintaining a good network and professional reputation, the questions lawyers should be asking of themselves in such a building process, remaining a good leader, and her broader guidance to lawyers coming through the ranks.

Ever feel like stress has become your default setting? Charlene Gisele shares how hustle culture fuels burnout and how clinical hypnotherapy can reset your nervous system, restore energy, and help you reclaim balance. Meet our guest Charlène Gisèle is a former Big Law litigator turned High-Performance Coach & founder of the Charlène Gisèle® Coaching method. She helps high-achieving professionals prevent & recover from burnout without sacrificing their careers. Her recovery-focused approach has been featured in major publications & sought after by leading organizations worldwide. Thank you to our partners Outliyr Biohacker's Peak Performance Shop: get exclusive discounts on cutting-edge health, wellness, & performance gear Ultimate Health Optimization Deals: a database of of all the current best biohacking deals on technology, supplements, systems and more Latest Summits, Conferences, Masterclasses, and Health Optimization Events: join me at the top events around the world FREE Outliyr Nootropics Mini-Course: gain mental clarity, energy, motivation, and focus Key takeaways Being busy or stressed is not the same as being successful or healthy Society often mixes these up Burnout usually sneaks up slowly Small repeated trades in self care for work lead to long term problems We get hooked on stress & adrenaline, similar to an addiction, especially when we link it to our identity Ignoring recovery leads to lower creativity & productivity Recovery is as important as hard work for true performance Chronic stress causes changes in the brain like thinning of the prefrontal cortex & shrinking hippocampus which harms memory & decision making Changes like more coffee, poor eating, snapping at loved ones, & losing motivation are early symptoms of burnout Our work, stresses, & environment lead to misdiagnosed issues like depression when the real issue is burnout Work is as addictive as drugs, causing harmful behavior patterns & hurting relationships if left unchecked The subconscious mind carries stories & beliefs from childhood that shape our habits—even sabotaging sleep & health Clinical hypnotherapy helps access & change subconscious patterns, enabling lasting recovery from burnout & related issues Episode highlights 1:20 Why busyness & stress are not successes 6:40 How stress turns into burnout 7:19 Signs you're trading health for work 9:31 What burnout does to your brain & body 33:10 How to recover & reprogram your mind 1:02:45 Lasting recovery & setting boundaries Links Watch it on YouTube: https://youtu.be/qpR66b05KDw  Full episode show notes: outliyr.com/225 Connect with Nick on social media Instagram Twitter (X) YouTube LinkedIn Easy ways to support Subscribe Leave an Apple Podcast review Suggest a guest Do you have questions, thoughts, or feedback for us? Let me know in the show notes above and one of us will get back to you! Be an Outliyr, Nick

In this episode of "The Free Lawyer," host Gary interviews Jennifer Kupferman, a former big law attorney turned psychotherapist specializing in lawyer well-being. They discuss common mental health challenges in the legal profession, such as anxiety, perfectionism, and chronic stress, and explore the stigma surrounding these issues. Jennifer explains her transition to therapy, the neuroscience behind anxiety, and introduces somatic therapy and EMDR as effective tools for lawyers. The conversation offers practical insights and encouragement for lawyers seeking support, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness, emotional regulation, and social connection.Jennifer Kupferman is a former Biglaw attorney, who's now a psychotherapist in private practice in New York City. She specializes in working with lawyers across a range of issues including anxiety, depression, work stress, and building self-confidence. She's also a regular contributor to the New York Law Journal on issues related to lawyer health and wellbeing, and a public speaker on these matters.Mental Health Challenges in Law (00:03:12)Isolation and Loneliness in Legal Profession (00:04:45) Why Work with Lawyers? (00:05:51) Thinking Like a Lawyer vs. Emotional Well-being (00:06:09) Stigma and Vulnerability in Law (00:07:29) Trends in Lawyer Mental Health (00:08:08) Generational Shifts in Work-Life Integration (00:08:54) Law Firm Resistance to Mental Health Initiatives (00:09:46) Neuroscience of Anxiety and Stress (00:10:49Why Anxiety Persists for High Achievers (00:13:12) Chronic Stress and the Nervous System (00:14:15) HBreaking the Stress-Zone Out Cycle (00:16:13) Therapeutic Approaches: Parts Work (00:17:05) IWhat is Somatic Therapy? (00:19:22)How Somatic Therapy Works (00:21:02) Evidence-Based Somatic Techniques (00:23:43)Introduction to EMDR Therapy (00:24:38) How EMDR Works in Practice (00:25:40) Addressing Skepticism about EMDR (00:27:53) Reframing Self-Criticism and Therapy Readiness (00:30:13) Signs It's Time to Seek Support (00:31:44) The Importance of Connection (00:32:46)Would you like to learn more about Breaking Free or order your copy? https://www.garymiles.net/break-free Would you like to schedule a complimentary discovery call? You can do so here: https://calendly.com/garymiles-successcoach/one-one-discovery-call

Mass-tort and multidistrict litigation is one of the most interesting and important practice areas in American law today. But even though these cases represent more than 70 percent of the federal civil docket, involving thousands of plaintiffs and billions of dollars, they don't get as much coverage as you might expect—including, I must admit, in the pages of this newsletter.To address this gap, I interviewed one of mass-tort litigation's most prominent practitioners, Christopher Seeger. A founding partner of Seeger Weiss, which he co-founded with Stephen Weiss in 1999, Chris has handled some of the biggest and most famous mass-tort litigations in history, over everything from the painkiller Vioxx to combat earplugs to concussions suffered by NFL players.In addition, Chris and his firm have been in the news because of their involvement in an issue of critical importance to lawyers and the legal profession, namely, judicial independence and the rule of law. Earlier this year, Seeger Weiss made a donation of $500,000 to the Bolch Judicial Institute at Duke Law School, to establish The Seeger Weiss/Daniel Anderl Memorial Fund. The Fund will support the Institute's mission of protecting the rule of law and defending the judiciary from attacks that threaten judicial independence and diminish public faith in the judicial system.Thanks to Chris for shedding light on a fascinating field—and thanks to him and his partners at Seeger Weiss for doing their part to stand up for an independent judiciary.Show Notes:* Christopher A. Seeger bio, Seeger Weiss LLP* Christopher A. Seeger profile, Chambers and Partners* Seeger Weiss LLP Gift Establishes the Daniel Anderl Memorial Fund, New Jersey Business MagazinePrefer reading to listening? For paid subscribers, a transcript of the entire episode appears below.Sponsored by:NexFirm helps Biglaw attorneys become founding partners. To learn more about how NexFirm can help you launch your firm, call 212-292-1000 or email careerdevelopment at nexfirm dot com. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit davidlat.substack.com/subscribe

Strategic planning often feels like corporate jargon that doesn't belong in law firms. Yet without a clear plan, too many lawyers end up chasing random opportunities, wasting time, and missing the clients and matters best suited to help them succeed with building their practice and their business.  In this episode, I talk with Sheri Palomaki, Director of Practice Operations at K&L Gates [Energy, Infrastructure, Resources] about why strategic planning is a critical skill for lawyers today, what makes it so difficult in our environment, and how attorneys in BigLaw can use practical tools like SWOT analysis, SMART goals, and accountability partners to align priorities with results. If you've ever wondered how to turn priorities like “bring in more clients” into real progress, this conversation will give you a concrete path forward. At a Glance: 00:00 Why strategy feels elusive for lawyers but is essential to your practice 01:20 Framing why strategic planning matters for lawyers and practice leaders 03:29 Sheri's career path from practicing at Skadden to law firm operations and strategic planning, and how that shaped her perspective 05:21 Why law firms resist planning: cash-basis financials, partnership politics, and individual achievement culture 08:17 The dartboard and football analogies: why random wins aren't a strategy 10:04 The trap of setting too many priorities and why 2-3 is the sweet spot 12:15 Using SWOT analysis effectively and avoiding the problem of one partner speaking for everyone 14:04 Turning priorities into SMART goals and why specificity matters 16:27 How to avoid chasing the wrong kinds of clients by segmenting your long tail 18:29 Fitness and sports analogies: daily actions, not lofty goals, drive results 21:12 Guarding against shiny object syndrome and staying intentional about shifts 23:10 How recurring accountability meetings and role assignments keep execution on track 25:02 The “accelerator program” model for training rising partners in business development 26:12 First steps: finding an accountability partner and communicating priorities Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts & Spotify Do you enjoy listening to Big Law Life?  Please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps support and reach more people like you who want to grow a career in Big Law.  For Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven't done so already, follow the podcast here!  For Spotify, tap here on your mobile phone, follow the podcast, listen to the show, then find the rating icon below the description, and tap to rate with five stars. Learn more about Sheri Palomaki and Legal Value Network LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheripalomaki/ https://www.legalvaluenetwork.com/ Interested in doing 1-2-1 coaching with Laura Terrell? Or learning more about her work coaching and consulting? Here are ways to reach out to her: www.lauraterrell.com  laura@lauraterrell.com   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauralterrell/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraterrellcoaching/  Show notes: https://www.lauraterrell.com/podcast  

Charlie Jimerson is the founder and CEO of Jimerson Birr, a Florida-based business law firm with a national reputation for litigation, regulatory, and transactional work. He's also a U.S. Air Force veteran, a board-certified construction law attorney, and a widely recognized leader in the legal and business communities. Under his leadership, the firm has been repeatedly honored for its workplace culture, growth, and client service while representing various businesses of all sizes and scales as their go-to counsel for legal matters and comprehensive legal expertise, both inside and outside the courtroom.  From drafting and enforcing contracts, providing grounded executive-level advice, and collecting money owed, Charlie's extensive experience spans all phases of litigation, including alternative dispute resolution, settlement negotiations, and complex commercial cases. His career is distinguished by a rich tapestry of accomplishments that mirror his unwavering commitment to securing favorable outcomes for his clients and reflect a focus on service, quality, and results. Prior to founding Jimerson Birr, Charlie honed his skills and expertise at prominent  Jacksonville-based commercial litigation and construction law boutique law firms. He currently resides in Ortega with his wife, Ashley, their two children, and their Italian Greyhound dog, Olive. WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS EPISODE ABOUT LAW FIRM GROWTH  As a young lawyer, Charlie Jimerson had his pick of opportunities and began his career at a traditional Biglaw firm. But it didn't take long for him to feel disenchanted with what he saw—an industry clinging to outdated models that didn't truly serve clients. Not even four years into practice, Charlie founded Jimerson Birr as a values-driven law firm committed to doing things differently. He believed law firms could grow by focusing on service, quality, and results instead of billable hours and burnout. That conviction shaped his approach to building a practice centered on client needs, predictable pricing, and strong culture. By replacing outdated habits with clear processes and accountability, Charlie set out to prove that sustainable growth is possible without sacrificing relationships or outcomes. In this episode of The Lawyer's Edge podcast, Elise talks with Charlie about how rethinking the billable hour can fuel law firm growth. He shares how subscription pricing and disciplined processes create more value for clients, how AI can enhance efficiency without replacing human judgment, and why culture and leadership are essential to long-term success. Charlie also explains why he sees pressure as a privilege and why “the way it's always been done” is the most dangerous mindset holding firms back. 2:06 - The inspiration for Jimerson Birr's founding and identity 5:21 - Problems with the billable hours model of many legal organizations 9:12 - What's necessary for the legal industry to start retreating from the billable hour crutch 14:37 – Value-based and subscription pricing around four core areas and three package tiers 21:15 – Why there should still be room made for the billable hour when necessary 24:56 - Three biggest things learned from client surveys that impacted changes within the firm  27:43 - How Charlie uses AI to enhance his organization's practice  32:20 - Hiring principles and cultural philosophy of Jimerson Birr 34:45 – Why Charlie views pressure as a privilege and its impact on his choices 37:28 - Essentials to focus on and the mentality law firm leaders need to reject so the industry can evolve MENTIONED IN RETHINKING THE BILLABLE HOUR FOR SUSTAINABLE LAW FIRM GROWTH Jimerson Birr | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram | Youtube Follow Charlie B. Jimerson on LinkedIn Process! How Discipline and Consistency Will Set You and Your Business Free by Mike Paton and Lisa González Books by Gino Wickman Get connected with the coaching team: hello@thelawyersedge.com The Lawyer's Edge SPONSOR FOR THIS EPISODE... Today's episode is brought to you by the Ignite Women's Business Development Accelerator, a 9-month business development program created BY women lawyers for women lawyers. Ignite is a carefully designed business development program containing content, coaching, and a community of like-minded women who are committed to becoming rainmakers AND supporting the retention and advancement of other women in the profession. If you are interested in either participating in the program or sponsoring a woman in your firm to enroll, learn more about Ignite and sign up for our registration alerts by visiting www.thelawyersedge.com/ignite.

The Big Four accounting firm KPMG has taken advantage of relaxed rules in Arizona to start a law firm there, but the company has broader ambitions outside of the state. KPMG says it doesn't want to compete with established players in the legal industry, but Big Law leaders are privately expressing concerns. That's according to Justin Henry, a Bloomberg Law reporter who's the guest on today's episode of our podcast, On The Merits. Henry talks about the legal work KPMG can do now and about the open question of whether it can operate outside of the Grand Canyon State. He also talks about the measures KPMG has taken to insulate its new law firm from the rest of its company, including having lawyers use separate entrances and exits at its Tempe, Ariz., office. Do you have feedback on this episode of On The Merits? Give us a call and leave a voicemail at 703-341-3690.

In this episode, Yitzy sits down with Jake Chervinsky — currently Chief Legal Officer at Variant, and previously Chief Policy Officer at the Blockchain Association - one of the most recognizable voices in crypto law and policy. From his early days as a litigator at Baker McKenzie to his transition into crypto Twitter threads, DeFi, and policy advocacy in Washington, Jake's journey offers an insider's look at how law, innovation, and regulation collide.We cover:Jake's path from mock trial competitions to Big Law and eventually into the heart of crypto;His move from courtroom litigation to becoming General Counsel at Compound Labs during the early DeFi boom;How a viral Bitcoin ETF Twitter thread shifted his career into crypto full-time;The behind-the-scenes fight over the 2021 infrastructure bill — and how it marked crypto's arrival in Washington;Lessons from his time as Chief Policy Officer at the Blockchain Association during the FTX fallout;His current role at Variant, helping founders navigate the legal and regulatory minefields of building in Web3;Jake's take on the future of stablecoins, the Clarity Act, and why “boring” regulation may actually be a win for the industry.Whether you're a lawyer, builder, or policy wonk, this episode is packed with insights on how crypto regulation is shaped — and what's coming next.

The largest law firms in the country are fiercely competitive, so it's notable when nearly 40 of them agree to sign on to a legal brief. That's what happened in an appellate case that could have eroded the attorney-client privilege—and the firms' lucrative white collar defense practices. They breathed a collective sigh of relief earlier this month when the Sixth Circuit overturned a lower court ruling that would have forced FirstEnergy to turn over to its shareholders the results of internal investigations. The company hired Jones Day and Squire Patton Boggs to conduct the probes in response to a bribery scandal and later argued that the work was shielded by attorney-client privilege. On today's episode of our podcast, On The Merits, reporter Roy Strom explains what happened in this case and why it represented such a threat to Big Law. He also gets into the reasons lawyers' hourly rates for white collar defense work can climb so high. Do you have feedback on this episode of On The Merits? Give us a call and leave a voicemail at 703-341-3690.

What if the relentless pursuit of success, the very ambition you've been praised for, is leading you toward a breakdown rather than a breakthrough?In this episode of Glass Ceilings and Sticky Floors, host Erica Rooney sits down with Charlène Gisèle, a high-performance coach and former big law litigator. Having intimately experienced the pressures of a high-stakes career, Charlène now helps high-achieving professionals reclaim their well-being and thrive without sacrificing their careers.Charlène shares her personal rock-bottom moment, a profound story about her father's burnout-driven heart attack that forced her to redefine what success truly means. She introduces her unique coaching method, born from a transformative journey from the corporate world to a meditation ashram in India, offering a powerful blueprint for sustainable performance.Inside the Episode:The Tipping Point: The heartbreaking story of a breakdown that forced Charlène to confront her "toxic relationship" with work and the unsustainable nature of her ambition.The Two Versions of You: A powerful exercise to audit your current behaviors against a past version of yourself, helping you identify subtle but destructive shifts that signal burnout.The Weight of the Mask: Unpacking how high-achieving women wear masks of perfection and productivity to hide underlying struggles with stress and emotional exhaustion.The Three Ds of Burnout: Charlène shares the harsh realities of burnout, highlighting the common progression from Divorce to Diagnosis and, in some cases, Death, as a stark reminder of the stakes.Beyond the Limiting Belief: Challenging the fear that prioritizing well-being will lead to professional failure, and instead, proving that sustainable success is your most valuable superpower.Redefining Success: How to expand your definition of success beyond external achievements (like job titles and salary) to include valuable life currencies like health and personal fulfillment.The Power of Moderation: The one piece of advice Charlène would give her younger, more obsessive self: learning to treat the things you love—including your career—with moderation to ensure they last.If you're an ambitious woman who feels caught between the pressure to perform and the need to breathe, this episode is a courageous and compassionate wake-up call.

Building and sustaining a practice in BigLaw can sometimes feel like you're carrying the entire business development and marketing load yourself. From writing client alerts and chasing follow-ups to hosting webinars and developing leads, many lawyers know the frustration of not having enough support from firm marketing and business development teams.  In this episode, I break down how to work smarter with the limited internal resources you may have -- even in a BigLaw firm -- where and how to create repeatable business development habits, how to leverage platforms outside your firm, and how to protect and invest in your own book of business when firm support simply isn't there. These strategies are designed to give you a clear path forward even if it feels like you're doing it all alone. At a Glance: 00:00 Why business development often feels like a solo effort in BigLaw 02:12 How to adjust expectations of firm resources and ask for targeted support 03:24 Examples of specific requests that firm resources can realistically deliver 04:37 Building simple, repeatable business development habits that create momentum 05:18 Repurposing client questions and content into multiple formats and opportunities 06:23 Streamlining workflow with templates, automation, and saved materials 07:10 Leveraging external platforms, like industry events, podcasts, and alumni groups 08:41 Making internal wins visible and quantifying results for leadership 10:54 Proactive updates that keep you on practice chairs' radar without seeming boastful 11:16 Asking whether you're building your firm's platform or your own and why it matters 12:59 Framing requests for firm resources with clear business justification 15:09 When to hire outside PR, marketing, or business development help to protect and grow your book of business Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts & Spotify Do you enjoy listening to Big Law Life?  Please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps support and reach more people like you who want to grow a career in Big Law.  For Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven't done so already, follow the podcast here!  For Spotify, tap here on your mobile phone, follow the podcast, listen to the show, then find the rating icon below the description, and tap to rate with five stars. Interested in doing 1-2-1 coaching with Laura Terrell? Or learning more about her work coaching and consulting? Here are ways to reach out to her: www.lauraterrell.com  laura@lauraterrell.com   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauralterrell/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraterrellcoaching/  Show notes: https://www.lauraterrell.com/podcast  

What if the relentless pursuit of success, the very ambition you've been praised for, is leading you toward a breakdown rather than a breakthrough?In this episode of Glass Ceilings and Sticky Floors, host Erica Rooney sits down with Charlène Gisèle, a high-performance coach and former big law litigator. Having intimately experienced the pressures of a high-stakes career, Charlène now helps high-achieving professionals reclaim their well-being and thrive without sacrificing their careers.Charlène shares her personal rock-bottom moment, a profound story about her father's burnout-driven heart attack that forced her to redefine what success truly means. She introduces her unique coaching method, born from a transformative journey from the corporate world to a meditation ashram in India, offering a powerful blueprint for sustainable performance.Inside the Episode:The Tipping Point: The heartbreaking story of a breakdown that forced Charlène to confront her "toxic relationship" with work and the unsustainable nature of her ambition.The Two Versions of You: A powerful exercise to audit your current behaviors against a past version of yourself, helping you identify subtle but destructive shifts that signal burnout.The Weight of the Mask: Unpacking how high-achieving women wear masks of perfection and productivity to hide underlying struggles with stress and emotional exhaustion.The Three Ds of Burnout: Charlène shares the harsh realities of burnout, highlighting the common progression from Divorce to Diagnosis and, in some cases, Death, as a stark reminder of the stakes.Beyond the Limiting Belief: Challenging the fear that prioritizing well-being will lead to professional failure, and instead, proving that sustainable success is your most valuable superpower.Redefining Success: How to expand your definition of success beyond external achievements (like job titles and salary) to include valuable life currencies like health and personal fulfillment.The Power of Moderation: The one piece of advice Charlène would give her younger, more obsessive self: learning to treat the things you love—including your career—with moderation to ensure they last.If you're an ambitious woman who feels caught between the pressure to perform and the need to breathe, this episode is a courageous and compassionate wake-up call.

Aaron Y. Strauss is one of the leading legal advisors in the commercial real estate industry, providing insight and guidance on billions of dollars' worth of transactions during his career. As founder and managing partner of A.Y. Strauss, he has positioned the firm as one of the region's most respected legal organizations for commercial real estate owners, lenders, and sponsors, serving the needs of its clients with utmost care, integrity, and transparency. Aaron is responsible for establishing the firm's long-term strategy and vision, overseeing a culture of excellence and respect that recruits, retains, and supports a nationally-recognized team of attorneys and business professionals. A dedicated dealmaker and connector, he strives to identify and facilitate commercial real estate and other opportunities for clients and valued contacts. In 2021, he launched The Dealmakers' Edge with A.Y. Strauss podcast, highlighting the stories, successes, and struggles behind major commercial real estate investors. Prior to founding A.Y. Strauss, Aaron practiced for several years at an international law firm in New York and a prominent New Jersey-based law firm. WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS EPISODE ABOUT BUILDING AN ENTREPRENEURIAL LAW FIRM What happens when you get off the beaten path to build something new? It takes an ambitious mind to forego the traditional path of building a legal practice to build a business platform with national reach. Aaron Strauss left Biglaw to found and manage A.Y. Strauss, LLC, a rapidly growing entrepreneurial law firm that represents clients in multiple practice areas. Under his leadership, the organization has earned a reputation for delivering thoughtful, strategic counsel with the responsiveness and care of a boutique practice. He's also developed a well-earned reputation for his devotion to connecting and creating growth opportunities for others. In this episode of The Lawyer's Edge podcast, Elise speaks with Aaron about leading a law firm by prioritizing hiring the right people, fostering a strong culture, expanding practice areas based on client needs, and engaging in practices to manage the stresses and complexities of leadership. 2:15 - The driver behind more than 40% growth in Aaron's firm over the past year 4:58 - The major challenge of recruiting and retaining legal talent  8:49 - Natural rainmakers and relationship nurturers as both being critical to a firm's success 11:29 - Addition of immigration, cannabis, and family law as new practice areas 15:30 - How Aaron balances his different roles and the most rewarding aspects of the job 20:38 - The challenges of leadership in relationship management and decision-making 26:27 - How mental resilience helps Aaron manage the stresses of his job 29:03 - Self-practices that Aaron uses to stay grounded and effective as a leader 33:14 - The value of shifting focus from “I” to “We” and pausing to acknowledge accomplishments 35:36 - Insights and influences from guests on Aaron's podcast, The Dealmakers' Edge MENTIONED IN The Entrepreneurial Law Firm: Building a Platform, Not Just a Practice A.Y. Strauss, LLC | LinkedIn The Dealmakers' Edge Podcast | “Leadership Lessons for Dealmakers with Elise Holtzman” Get connected with the coaching team: hello@thelawyersedge.com The Lawyer's Edge SPONSOR FOR THIS EPISODE... Today's episode is brought to you by the Ignite Women's Business Development Accelerator, a 9-month business development program created BY women lawyers for women lawyers. Ignite is a carefully designed business development program containing content, coaching, and a community of like-minded women who are committed to becoming rainmakers AND supporting the retention and advancement of other women in the profession. If you are interested in either participating in the program or sponsoring a woman in your firm to enroll, learn more about Ignite and sign up for our registration alerts by visiting www.thelawyersedge.com/ignite.

Benjamin Klubes is a Big Law expat who just founded his own litigation-focused boutique firm—and he's not alone. Other former partners at larger law firms are now either moving to smaller litigation-only firms or, like Klubes, starting their own. In this episode of our podcast, On The Merits, Klubes talks with Bloomberg Law reporter Tatyana Monnay about why he thinks these boutique firms are better suited to taking on the Trump administration than firms like Skadden, where he was a partner in the 2000s. "The issues that seemed to be driving a lot of Big Law capitulation were the transactional practices and the clients in those practices that believed that they were going to suffer as a result of retaliation by the Trump administration," he says. "That of course just isn't part of my practice or many boutique litigation practices." Klubes also says new technology, particularly AI, can mitigate some of the disadvantages of starting a small firm. "Document reviews are much more subject to technological innovation and reducing the need for a mass number of lawyers to be thrown at a case," he says. "AI can do it faster and typically, frankly, more efficiently." Do you have feedback on this episode of On The Merits? Give us a call and leave a voicemail at 703-341-3690.

It's Elul, and we're focusing on Defining Success as Bnei Torah in the workplace. What does real success look like? Is it possible to set goals that are both ambitious and compassionate?This week, we sit down with Rav Shimon Isaacson, Rosh Yeshiva of Mevaseret. Before entering the world of Torah and chinuch, Rav Isaacson worked in Big Law in New York City. Many assume he left that life to escape its spiritual emptiness — but the truth is much more surprising.SummaryIn this episode, I sat down with Rav Shimon Isaacson, Rosh Yeshiva of Mevaseret, to trace his remarkable journey from Big Law associate to respected mechanech and community leader in Israel. Rav Isaacson shares how his wife's passion for Aliyah shaped their family's path, how he balanced intense Torah learning with a demanding legal career, and how an unusual arrangement of “lawyer in the summer, learner in the year” gave him the springboard into full-time chinuch.The conversation dives into big life questions: What makes for a successful decision-making process? How can a Ben Torah thrive in the workforce? What does passion in Avodas Hashem look like? Rav Isaacson also reflects on 30 years of Aliyah, the role of rebbeim as life guides, the value of combining Torah greatness with real-world experience, and how yeshiva can prepare talmidim for decades of growth ahead.

Sometimes following the path you're "supposed to" take leads to a life you don't actually want to live. That's exactly what happened to Lauren Klein, Biglaw attorney turned boutique firm owner and money and mindset coach. Through intentional planning and wise money decisions, Lauren has built a business and life she loves. In this episode, Lauren and I talk about her journey, the tools that have helped her create the life she now enjoys, and the exact steps you can take to create the same kind of life for yourself. Head to rhothomas.com/274 for the full episode show notes.

One question I frequently receive, as a lawyer turned writer, is whether I miss the practice of law. My honest answer is no. In my current job, I feel I get some of the best aspects of a legal career, such as the intellectual stimulation and challenge, without the worst ones, such as billable hours (or, for those lawyers who don't bill time, the stress of being in a client-focused business).But what if I had stayed in the practice of law? And what if I had remained at the firm where I started my post-clerkship legal career, Wachtell Lipton Rosen & Katz? And while I'm taking an imaginary trip down the road not taken, what if I had gone into corporate or transactional work, with a focus on mergers and acquisitions (M&A), instead of litigation?If you changed a few other things about me—e.g., if you raised my IQ and ability to tolerate stress, while lowering my laziness—maybe I'd have a legal career like that of David Lam. We have a number of things in common. After graduating from fancy colleges, we went straight through to Yale Law School, where we overlapped. Following clerkships for prominent federal appellate judges, we started our careers at Wachtell Lipton, where we were sometimes confused with each other (based on our similar names and certain demographic similarities).I left WLRK after a few years, while David Lam stayed—and went on to a spectacular legal career. He's now one of the country's top M&A lawyers, according to The American Lawyer, Chambers, Lawdragon, and many other authorities. He's also co-chair of the M&A practice at Wachtell Lipton, viewed by many as the nation's #1 firm for mergers and acquisitions.Wachtell Lipton partners don't give many interviews or speak to the media that often. So I was delighted and grateful when David agreed to join me on the Original Jurisdiction podcast. And I think you'll enjoy our conversation, covering David's high-powered legal career, the state of the current M&A market, some secrets of success for Wachtell Lipton as a firm, and more.Show Notes:* David K. Lam bio, Wachtell Lipton Rosen & Katz* David Lam profile, Chambers and Partners* Dealmakers of the Year: The Spinmeister—David Lam, by The American LawyerPrefer reading to listening? For paid subscribers, a transcript of the entire episode appears below.Sponsored by:NexFirm helps Biglaw attorneys become founding partners. To learn more about how NexFirm can help you launch your firm, call 212-292-1000 or email careerdevelopment at nexfirm dot com. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit davidlat.substack.com/subscribe

Making partner in BigLaw is rarely a straightforward path and the feedback you get from your firm can be really cryptic. In this episode, I break down common things firms say to explain why they're holding off on your promotion and what they really mean. We go deeper into three of the most frequent partnership “holding patterns”: the need for more visibility, more business development, and more leadership.  I share exactly how each one shows up in day-to-day practice, the actions that actually move the needle, and the questions you should be asking to turn vague guidance into a clear plan. If you're on the partner track—or wondering why you're stalled—this conversation will help you decode the signals and take targeted action that matters in your firm's decision-making process. At a Glance: 00:00 Why partnership feedback is often vague and how to read between the lines 02:28 The need to be "more visible” and why this may mean leaders don't know your value 04:06 Specific ways to build visibility in the right rooms 05:14 Three questions to assess whether you have a visibility problem 06:02 “We'd like to see more business development” and the different forms it takes 07:20 Value-driven business development that goes beyond landing big new clients 08:32 How to maintain relationship velocity with existing and potential clients 09:15 The five stages of business development progression for lawyers 10:29 Questions to ask when feedback on business development is unclear 10:50 “We'd like to see more leadership" and what that really looks like in BigLaw 11:30 Behaviors that show you're shaping strategy, not just completing tasks 12:16 How cultural fit and internal leadership roles influence partnership decisions 12:57 Asking for specific examples to strengthen your leadership profile 13:17 Final advice for clarifying vague feedback before your next partnership conversation Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts & Spotify Do you enjoy listening to Big Law Life?  Please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps support and reach more people like you who want to grow a career in Big Law.  For Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven't done so already, follow the podcast here!  For Spotify, tap here on your mobile phone, follow the podcast, listen to the show, then find the rating icon below the description, and tap to rate with five stars.   Interested in doing 1-2-1 coaching with Laura Terrell? Or learning more about her work coaching and consulting? Here are ways to reach out to her: www.lauraterrell.com  laura@lauraterrell.com   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauralterrell/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraterrellcoaching/  Show notes: https://www.lauraterrell.com/podcast  

Many lawyers are clear about what they don't want in their career.  But they struggle to define what they do want. In this episode of Counsel to Counsel, Steve Seckler speaks with Philippe Danielides, former Biglaw associate, communications consultant, coach, and author of The Lawyer's Guide to Freedom: A Six-Step Plan to Discover What You Actually Want. Philippe shares insights from his own career journey—spanning Biglaw, corporate communications, solo coaching, authorship, and now his current role with the Career Design team at Latham & Watkins. He explains why career clarity is often so elusive, how lawyers can expand their range of possibilities, and why “freedom” doesn't necessarily mean leaving the law. What You'll Learn in This Episode: Philippe's career journey from Biglaw to communications to coaching—and back into Biglaw in a new role Why lawyers often know what they don't want, but struggle to define what they do want Common myths and misconceptions about career clarity Key elements of Philippe's six-step process from The Lawyer's Guide to Freedom How coaching helps lawyers get unstuck and uncover new possibilities What “freedom” means within the context of a legal career Insights from Philippe's work with Latham's Career Design team Practical advice for lawyers who feel stuck or afraid to ask themselves what they really want Philippe Danielides is a coach, writer, and former corporate communications consultant. In 2017, he launched the Blue Pen Project to guide lawyers through career transitions. His 2022 book, The Lawyer's Guide to Freedom, offers a structured roadmap for clarifying professional goals. Today, Philippe coaches lawyers and alumni at Latham & Watkins, helping them navigate questions of career direction and fulfillment.

William Cohan, co-founder of Puck News and author of many books, including Power Failure: The Rise and Fall of an American Icon (Penguin Random House, 2022) , talks about the many ways President Trump is interfering in big U.S. businesses, and why Wall Street is worried he'll come after big banks the way he did big law firms and elite universities.

New Era in Justice: How Collin Williams is Transforming Dispute Resolution The Lawyer Stories Podcast Episode 234 features Collin Williams, Founder & Chairman at New Era ADR. From aspiring litigator to groundbreaking entrepreneur, Collin's journey started in law school with dreams of courtroom advocacy — only to discover that litigation often has little to do with being in court. With a background spanning big law and corporate counsel, Collin followed his entrepreneurial drive to create New Era ADR in 2020, reimagining how disputes are resolved. New Era ADR delivers simplified dispute resolution — ending litigation gamesmanship with fair, efficient 100-day arbitrations and mediations for one flat fee, all powered by top-tier neutrals on a digital platform. We also dive into the history of arbitration, Collin's legal career lessons, and the importance of mental health awareness — a cause we're both passionate about. Listen now and discover how the future of dispute resolution is here.

Milbank delighted with special summer bonuses, ranging from $6-25 thousand, for associates. And that's great for them! But where are all the matches? We have a theory on when associates at other firms will be able to cash in. There was some fishiness (now resolved) with the constitution on congress's website. Which, honestly, should be more shocking than it is. Biglaw partner lateral moves are all the rage, with some major moves this summer. But not everyone is benefitting from the hotness of the lateral market -- all because of a little thing called due diligence.

"I thought my calling was to be a Catholic priest." – Ryan Monk It wasn't a whim. Ryan devoted years — undergrad, master's, a year of theology in seminary — to answering what he believed was his life's purpose. But somewhere along the way, a quiet unease began to grow. His head said priesthood but his heart whispered his gifts might belong in a different kind of service — one with a family at the center & a new way of walking alongside people in their most important moments. So, he traded vestments for brick dust, late-night restaurant shifts, & finally, law school — chasing a career that could both provide for his young family & serve others. Then 2008 hit. The economy tanked. A Big Law offer disappeared. And that mortgage, those babies… they were staring him down. Ryan took one last leap of faith — starting from a borrowed desk in a warehouse. Little by little, he built his own law firm on three values you can't fake: humility, gratitude, & joy — the kind that shows up in grief, uncertainty, recessions, pandemics, & all the moments in between. If you've ever wondered whether changing course can bring you closer to your true calling… Connect at monklegal.com Joseph Campbell said it best of journeys like Ryan's: “Follow your bliss and the universe will open doors where there were only walls.”

It's been a huge week for the female gaze (and gays)! Jodi and Nora begin by supplying some insider info about Big Law's favorite biter (1:55) before recapping a few cursed news headlines from this week, including Matt Rife purchasing the Connecticut home and occult museum of paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren (13:42). Then they discuss the potential return of culture from the mid-2010s and how they're personally feeling about earnestness making a comeback (30:00). And finally … it's a sapphic summer! To celebrate, Jodi and Nora discuss Chappell Roan's new song, the Reneé Rapp Award for Power in Lesbianism at the Las Culturistas Culture Awards, and the hit Netflix series 'The Hunting Wives' (40:48). To close out the show, they reveal their weekly obsessions (1:18:39). Hosts: Jodi Walker and Nora Princiotti Producers: Devon Baroldi, Sasha Ashall, and Belle Roman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Texas Republicans are busy gerrymandering their already gerrymandered congressional map, and other red states are looking to do the same—all aimed at blocking the Dems from winning back the House and shielding Donald Trump at all costs. Meanwhile, the DOJ is trying to get state voter rolls and is laying the groundwork for interfering in the midterms. Democrats need to fight fire with fire in blue states. Plus, the cowardice of Big Law, the power politics behind the Emil Bove confirmation, and the pathetic deference Republicans are showing to convicted sex crimes monster Ghislaine Maxwell. Marc Elias joins Tim Miller. show notes Elias's Democracy Docket  F*%k your khakis and get The Perfect Jean 15% off with the code BULWARK15 at theperfectjean.nyc/BULWARK15