Podcasts about big law

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.

Welcome to 'AI Lawyer Talking Tech,' the podcast where we explore the cutting edge of legal technology. Today, we delve into a pivotal moment for the legal profession, witnessing an accelerated integration of Artificial Intelligence that promises to reshape every facet of legal practice. From LexisNexis's ambitious vision of personalized, courtroom-grade AI assistants capable of automating a significant portion of lawyers' tasks, to Practice AI's trailblazing tools offering real-time case valuation intelligence and verdict analysis systems that streamline decision-making and reduce drafting time by up to 90%, the landscape is transforming rapidly. We'll examine the spirited debate about whether expensive, specialized legal AI products truly outperform affordable, general-purpose AI chatbots, emphasizing how AI literacy and robust internal training are becoming paramount for firms seeking a competitive edge. As states like Texas and Colorado implement comprehensive AI legislation and the SEC establishes an AI Task Force for regulatory oversight, we'll also consider the critical implications for responsible AI adoption, data privacy, and ethical standards within legal departments. Join us as we unpack how these innovations are reshaping legal workflows, empowering strategic work, and potentially broadening access to justice in high-need areas.Mapping Legal Deserts2025-08-25 | The Practice MagazineLexisNexis: Every Lawyer Will Have A Personalized AI Assistant2025-08-25 | LawSitesPractice AI™ Introduces Trailblazing Tools for Legal Professionals2025-08-25 | InvestorsHangout.comHow Litera Is Building Deeper Lawyer-Client Relationships2025-08-25 | Above The Law3 Key Takeaways | Part Three: From Copyright to Patents: Global IP and Legal Issues in GenAI Innovations2025-08-25 | JD SupraStates Prepare to Increase Oversight as Federal Enforcement Shifts2025-08-25 | JD SupraOutside Counsel Guidelines: Built To Evolve, Designed To Align2025-08-25 | Epiq SystemsThe AI Law Professor: When AI agents act without understanding2025-08-25 | Thomson ReutersWhy Legal AI Products Are Getting Lapped by $20 Chatbots2025-08-25 | JD SupraEmail security for attorneys and law firms (and anyone else)2025-08-25 | ReutersAI adoption deepens in US legal sector – 77% of orgs increased AI spend…2025-08-25 | AiThority.comClio built its empire on small law firms. Now it's spending $1 billion to buy a seat at Big Law's table.2025-08-25 | DNyuzAustralia State of the Legal Market 2025: The next leg of the legal race2025-08-25 | Thomson Reuters InstituteInterview with Artem: Legal Tech, Startups, and Knowing When to Walk Away2025-08-25 | Legaltech on MediumTexas Laws on Nondisclosure and Confidentiality, AI, Take Effect Soon2025-08-25 | Ogletree DeakinsSixth Circuit Upholds FCC's 2024 Breach Notification Rules2025-08-25 | Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & FeldPennsylvania Perspective for Monday, August 25, 20252025-08-25 | Cozen O ConnorSEC establishes AI Task Force to drive internal innovation and efficiency2025-08-25 | DLA PiperKirkland Secures First Dismissal of Children's Privacy Case in EdTech Industry2025-08-25 | Kirkland & Ellis LLPMaking Your Business Cyber Secure2025-08-25 | Dinsmore & ShohlAI in the Workplace: Legal Risks2025-08-24 | GenAI-LexologyTop 3 Law Schools Ranking In Minnesota: History, Academics, Rankings & More2025-08-21 | Lexinter Law Directory

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.

The allure of making partner doesn't hold the same appeal that it used to for many Big Law associates. Some of them are swallowing a pay cut to jump to a smaller firm. That's according to Major, Lindsey & Africa partner and recruiter Kate Reder Sheikh, who wrote about the trend for Bloomberg Law. She spoke to Bloomberg Law editor Jessie Kokrda Kamens for our podcast, On The Merits, about why some associates are forgoing the riches of partnership and exit the Big Law universe. "The pay is going to be half of Big Law," she said, "but it's very appealing to a lot of people to stay at a firm but be doing work that they're genuinely excited to get out of bed and do in the morning." Reder Sheikh also shared her thoughts on the shifting power balance at Big Law firms, the rise of nonequity partnerships, and whether junior lawyers should expect their firms to match Milbank LLP's summer bonuses. Do you have feedback on this episode of On The Merits? Give us a call and leave a voicemail at 703-341-3690.

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.

This Day in Legal History: Nineteenth Amendment RatifiedOn August 18, 1920, the Nineteenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution was ratified, guaranteeing women the right to vote and marking a major legal milestone in the struggle for gender equality. The amendment states simply: “The right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged… on account of sex.” Its passage capped off more than 70 years of organized activism, dating back to the Seneca Falls Convention in 1848. Suffragists like Susan B. Anthony, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Sojourner Truth, and Alice Paul played pivotal roles in maintaining momentum across generations, despite fierce opposition.The road to ratification was grueling. Congress passed the amendment in 1919, but it still required approval from three-fourths of the states—36 at the time. Tennessee became the critical 36th state, narrowly approving the amendment in a dramatic vote where a 24-year-old legislator, Harry T. Burn, changed his vote after receiving a letter from his mother urging him to support suffrage. That moment tipped the scales and enshrined the right to vote for women nationwide.Before the amendment, several western states had already extended suffrage to women, but many others actively suppressed it. The legal recognition of women's voting rights through constitutional amendment removed any ambiguity and forced all states to comply. The Nineteenth Amendment not only transformed the electorate but also reshaped American democracy by recognizing women as full political participants.The Trump administration is accusing a federal judge in Boston of undermining the authority of the U.S. Supreme Court by continuing to block the administration from firing staff in the Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights. U.S. District Judge Myong Joun had issued an injunction requiring the reinstatement of employees let go in a mass layoff, despite the Supreme Court having recently paused a broader version of that order. The Justice Department has asked the 1st U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals to intervene, arguing that Joun's refusal to lift the narrower injunction contradicts the Supreme Court's ruling and undermines the rule of law.The judge's decision stems from a lawsuit challenging Secretary of Education Linda McMahon's plan to lay off over 1,300 department employees, part of President Trump's broader goal of eliminating the department—something only Congress can authorize. The plaintiffs, including students and advocacy groups, focused specifically on the Office for Civil Rights, which was set to lose half its staff. They argue that lifting the injunction now would effectively reward the administration's ongoing failure to comply with the court's order, as the terminated employees have not yet been reinstated.Judge Joun, appointed by President Biden, criticized the Supreme Court's ruling as "unreasoned" and pointed to the administration's continued noncompliance. The 1st Circuit has asked the plaintiffs to respond promptly to the Justice Department's request, signaling an expedited review.Trump administration claims judge defied Supreme Court to bar Education Department firings | ReutersFederal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell is preparing for what may be his final speech at the annual Jackson Hole conference, facing a complicated economic picture that challenges his data-driven policy approach. In past years, Powell used the conference to pledge aggressive action against inflation and, later, to support the labor market. Now, with inflation still above target and signs of economic slowdown emerging, Powell must decide whether to prioritize price stability or job preservation.The Trump administration and many investors expect interest rate cuts at the Fed's September meeting, but Powell's messaging—how he frames future actions—may matter more than the decision itself. Internally, Fed officials are split: some want to move quickly to protect jobs, while others want to wait for clearer evidence that inflation won't rebound. Powell has previously styled himself after past Fed chairs like Paul Volcker and Alan Greenspan, with Volcker's inflation-fighting resolve and Greenspan's forward-looking leniency both offering competing models.Recent economic data has sent mixed signals. Revised job growth numbers were lower than initially reported, supporting arguments for easing monetary policy, but inflation has edged up again. Trump's tariff policies add further uncertainty, though their economic impact has so far been less severe than feared. With the economy growing slowly and inflation still above the Fed's 2% target, Powell must decide whether to stay the course, cut rates cautiously, or begin a broader shift.Powell has used Jackson Hole to battle inflation and buoy jobs; he's now caught between both | ReutersNovo Nordisk's shares rose by up to 5% after receiving accelerated U.S. approval for its weight-loss drug Wegovy to treat MASH (metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis), a progressive liver disease that affects about 5% of U.S. adults. This marks the first GLP-1 drug approved for MASH and offers a significant, if temporary, advantage over competitor Eli Lilly, which is still in clinical trials for its own MASH-targeting drug, tirzepatide.The news was a welcome reversal for Novo, which recently lost over $70 billion in market value following a profit warning and leadership change. The company, once Europe's most valuable publicly traded firm due to Wegovy's success, has seen its share price drop sharply over the past year amid intensifying competition in the obesity drug market and the rise of compounded copycat drugs.Although Novo now holds a short-term lead in the liver disease market, analysts expect that exclusivity will be brief once Eli Lilly gains approval. Novo has also submitted applications in Europe and Japan, signaling its intention to secure broader global use for Wegovy beyond weight loss.Shares in Novo Nordisk rise after Wegovy gets US nod for liver disease treatment | ReutersNorton Rose's ambitious tech partnership with NMBL Technologies has ended in failure and mutual lawsuits, highlighting how difficult it is for Big Law firms to pivot from selling legal services to selling tech products. The firm's Chicago office, launched in 2022 as an “innovation hub,” aimed to introduce 150 clients to Proxy, a legal workflow tool developed by a new partner, Daniel Farris. But three years later, not a single sale was made. NMBL claims Norton Rose didn't uphold its end of the deal and stifled the rollout, while the firm says clients weren't interested and is seeking damages for the investment.The fallout underscores broader challenges law firms face as they increasingly invest in artificial intelligence and legal tech amid growing demand and rising budgets. Unlike traditional legal work, selling products requires different infrastructure and skills—such as dedicated sales teams—that most law firms lack. Despite producing marketing materials and training resources, NMBL alleges that very few Norton Rose lawyers engaged with the product and that the firm failed to meaningfully promote it.NMBL is seeking $15 million in damages, accusing the firm of using the deal merely to recruit talent, while Norton Rose wants $250,000, calling the product commercially nonviable. The firm also allegedly created a shell subsidiary, LX, to meet contract terms but never properly funded or activated it. This case illustrates the steep learning curve law firms face in transitioning to tech-based business models and the internal resistance that can derail innovation.Firm's Failed Tech Venture Foretells Big Law's AI Sales Struggle 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

I spent two days on the ground at Legal Tech Talk London, speaking to the people shaping the future of law, from AI innovators to legal ops leaders.And what I heard? Surprising. Honest. Game-changing.Over the next few weeks, I'll be sharing the big insights, bold ideas, and behind-the-scenes realities that every legal professional needs to hear.In this episode, I'm speaking with Charlene Gisele, former BigLaw litigator turned high-performance coach for lawyers, law firms and executives. ---FREE access to my How to Become Law Firms' Go-To Legal Tech Solution here:Covered In This 28-Page Blueprint: Where legal tech companies go wrong: Why thought leadership is non-negotiableHow to build a LinkedIn presence that converts visibility into authorityThe ultimate LinkedIn strategy for law firm lead generationYour podcast strategy to become a recognised voice in legal tech and much more… Gain free access to your ultimate blueprint, learn how to become an authority:https://holly-cope.myflodesk.com/becomealegaltechleader Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.

Gary Martoccio is an employment lawyer and solo practitioner who left a large firm after 12 years to build his own plaintiffs-side practice. In this episode, Gary shares what it's like to advocate for employees, run your own firm, and earn multiple state licenses through bar exams and reciprocity. If you're curious about employment law or considering going solo, this episode gives a real-world perspective you won't find in law school.WHAT YOU CAN DO WITH A LAW DEGREEGary's journey shows how a law degree can provide both structure and flexibility. Even if your first idea doesn't stick (or your clients don't make it to the big leagues), your training equips you with skills to succeed in high-stakes environments.“Don't just limit yourself to traditional practice… it truly sets you up for so many different avenues," shared Gary Martoccio on Episode 205 of You Are a Lawyer.Today, Gary practices employment law across multiple states thanks to a smart mix of bar exams and reciprocity. He reminds lawyers and law students that options expand when you take strategic risks early on and the earlier you pivot toward work that feels aligned, the better.LISTEN TO LEARNHow to start and grow your own law firm after working in Big LawWhat it really looks like to practice plaintiffs-side employment lawHow to use bar reciprocity and strategy to gain licensure in multiple statesWE ALSO DISCUSSThe emotional and professional payoff of advocating for employeesHow to tell if your law firm (or area of law) is a good long-term fitWhy it's never too late to pivot toward work that energizes youJoin 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

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.”

The legal industry has long assumed that once you make partner, you no longer need training. But as law firm operations have become more complex, and leadership expectations more demanding, that mindset no longer serves the firm or its partners. In this episode, I talk with Leigh Riley, a longtime partner at Foley & Lardner and architect of the firm's PEAK (Partner Excellence Actionable Knowledge) program, which is redefining what professional development looks like for senior lawyers. Leigh shares the real-world gaps she experienced after making partner and how she helped build a program to address the business, leadership, and people-management skills that partners are now expected to master. We get into everything from billing strategy and succession planning to managing laterals and navigating the emotional dynamics of career evolution. Whether you're a new partner, a lateral, or approaching transition in your practice, this episode offers a clear look at how firms can better support lawyers at every stage of partnership. At a Glance: 00:00 Why the idea that partners don't need training is outdated 03:13 Leigh's realization that partnership came with less guidance, not more 05:07 The moment she advocated for firm-wide partner development 06:15 Why people management is core to Foley's culture 07:58 Common partner questions that shaped the program 10:18 How mentorship gaps persist well into partnership 12:02 Why internal leaders are the primary trainers—not outsiders 13:25 How training is delivered: live sessions, short videos, and an on-demand library 14:49 Helping lateral partners understand firm culture and support systems 15:13 Involving business professionals in training content 16:12 How PEAK differs from traditional leadership programs 17:10 Training on listening, feedback, and generational differences 18:12 Feedback from partners and why it drives program longevity 23:10 Planning for transitions as partners evolve into new career stages 25:14 The challenges and importance of client succession planning 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. Reach Leigh Riley LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leigh-riley-747b515/ lriley@foley.com https://www.foley.com/people/riley-leigh-c/ https://www.foley.com/  Information about Foley's PEAK program May 2025 Foley Career Perspectives blog post re overview of all tenure-based training academies at Foley, including PEAK: https://www.foley.com/insights/publications/2025/05/investing-attorneys-arc-careers/ October 2024 PEAK highlighted in The American Lawyer: https://www.foley.com/news/2024/10/foleys-peak-training-program-highlighted-in-the-american-lawyer/ September 2024 press release re PEAK launch: https://www.foley.com/news/2024/09/foley-launches-peak-partner-training-program/ 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

A wave of associate lawyers resigned in protest from their Big Law jobs earlier this year after their firms struck controversial pro bono deals with the Trump administration. Do they have any regrets? According to Bloomberg Law reporters Justin Henry and Elleiana Green, not really. They spoke with several former associates who say they stand by their decisions to, as one legal recruiter put it, "loudly quit." But that doesn't mean the road ahead will be easy. On this episode of our podcast, On The Merits, the two reporters talk about where these lawyers may land and whether they risk being blackballed from Big Law. 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 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

This Day in Legal History: Expansion of US House of RepresentativesOn August 8, 1911, President William Howard Taft signed into law a measure that permanently expanded the size of the U.S. House of Representatives from 391 to 433 members. This change followed the 1910 census, which revealed significant population growth and shifts in where Americans lived. Under the Constitution, House seats are apportioned among the states according to population, and each decade's census can lead to changes in representation. Prior to 1911, Congress often responded to new census data by simply adding seats rather than redistributing them among states. The 1911 legislation reflected both that tradition and the political realities of the time, as expanding the House allowed growing states to gain representation without forcing other states to lose seats. It also set the stage for the modern size of the House—just two years later, New Mexico and Arizona joined the Union, bringing the total to 435 members. That number has remained fixed by law since 1929, despite the nation's continued population growth. The 1911 increase carried implications beyond arithmetic: more members meant more voices, more local interests, and a larger scale for legislative negotiation. It also underscored Congress's role in adapting the machinery of government to the country's evolving demographics. In many ways, the expansion reflected Progressive Era concerns with fair representation and democratic responsiveness. While debates over House size have continued into the 21st century, the 1911 law remains a pivotal moment in the chamber's institutional development. By enlarging the House, Taft and Congress preserved proportionality between population and representation, even if only temporarily.After the 1911 increase under President Taft, the size of the House stayed at 435 members following Arizona and New Mexico's statehood in 1912. The idea at the time was that future census results would continue to trigger changes, either by adding more seats or by redistributing them among the states.But after the 1920 census, Congress ran into a political deadlock. Massive population growth in cities—and significant immigration—meant that urban states stood to gain seats while rural states would lose them. Rural lawmakers, who still held considerable power, resisted any reapportionment that would diminish their influence. For nearly a decade, Congress failed to pass a new apportionment plan, effectively ignoring the 1920 census results.To end the stalemate, Congress passed the Permanent Apportionment Act of 1929. This law capped the House at 435 seats and created an automatic formula for reapportionment after each census. Instead of adding seats to reflect population growth, the formula reassigns the fixed number of seats among states. This froze the size of the House even as the U.S. population more than tripled over the next century.Critics argue that the 1929 cap dilutes individual representation—today, each representative speaks for about 760,000 constituents on average, compared to roughly 200,000 in 1911. Supporters counter that a larger House would be unwieldy and harder to manage. The debate over whether to expand the House continues, but the 1929 law has held for nearly a hundred years, making Taft's 1911 expansion the last time the chamber permanently grew in size.A fourth federal court blocked President Donald Trump's order restricting birthright citizenship, halting its enforcement nationwide. The order, issued on Trump's first day back in office, sought to deny citizenship to children born in the U.S. unless at least one parent was a citizen or lawful permanent resident. Immigrant rights groups and 22 Democratic state attorneys general challenged the policy as a violation of the Fourteenth Amendment's Citizenship Clause, which has long been interpreted to grant citizenship to nearly everyone born on U.S. soil.U.S. District Judge Deborah Boardman in Maryland sided with the challengers, issuing the latest in a series of nationwide injunctions despite a recent Supreme Court ruling narrowing judges' power to block policies universally. That June decision left a key exception: courts could still halt policies nationwide in certified class actions. Advocates quickly filed two such cases, including the one before Boardman, who had previously ruled in February that Trump's interpretation of the Constitution was one “no court in the country has ever endorsed.”In July, Boardman signaled she would grant national relief once class status was approved, but waited for the Fourth Circuit to return the case after the administration's appeal was dismissed. Her new order covers all affected children born in the U.S., making it the first post–Supreme Court nationwide injunction issued via class action in the birthright fight. The case, Casa Inc. et al v. Trump, continues as part of a broader legal battle over the limits of presidential power in defining citizenship.Fourth court blocks Trump's birthright citizenship order nationwide | ReutersThe Trump administration asked the U.S. Supreme Court to lift a lower court order restricting immigration enforcement tactics in much of Southern California. The Justice Department's emergency filing seeks to overturn a ruling by U.S. District Judge Maame Frimpong, who barred federal agents from stopping or detaining individuals based solely on race, ethnicity, language, or similar factors without “reasonable suspicion” of unlawful presence. Her temporary restraining order stemmed from a proposed class action brought by Latino plaintiffs—including U.S. citizens—who alleged they were wrongly targeted, detained, or roughed up during immigration raids in Los Angeles.The plaintiffs argued these tactics violated the Fourth Amendment's protections against unreasonable searches and seizures, describing indiscriminate stops by masked, armed agents. Judge Frimpong agreed, finding the operations likely unconstitutional and blocking the use of race, ethnicity, language, workplace type, or certain locations as stand-alone reasons for suspicion. The Ninth Circuit declined to lift her order earlier this month.The challenge comes amid a major escalation in Trump's immigration enforcement push, which includes aggressive deportation targets, mass raids, and even the deployment of National Guard troops and U.S. Marines in Los Angeles—a move sharply opposed by state officials. The administration contends the restrictions hinder operations in a heavily populated region central to its immigration agenda. The Supreme Court will now decide whether to allow these limits to remain in place while the underlying constitutional challenge proceeds.Trump asks US Supreme Court to lift limits on immigration raids | ReutersMilbank announced it will pay seniority-based “special” bonuses to associates and special counsel worldwide, ranging from $6,000 to $25,000, with payments due by September 30. Milbank, of course, is among the big firms that bent to Trump's strong-arm tactics, cutting a $100 million deal and dropping diversity-based hiring rather than risk becoming his next executive-order target. The New York-founded firm used the same bonus scale last summer, signaling optimism about high activity levels through the rest of the year. Milbank, known for setting the pace in Big Law compensation, is the first major corporate firm to roll out such bonuses this summer—a move that often pressures competitors to follow suit.Special bonuses are not standard annual payouts, and last year rival firms mostly waited until year's end to match Milbank's mid-year scale, adding those amounts to their regular year-end bonuses. Milbank also led the market in November 2024 with annual bonuses up to $115,000. The firm is one of nine that reached agreements with President Trump earlier this year after his executive orders restricted certain law firms' access to federal buildings, officials, and contracting work.In a smaller but notable move, New York boutique Otterbourg recently awarded all full-time associates a $15,000 mid-year bonus, citing strong performance and contributions to the firm's success.Law firm Milbank to pay out 'special' bonuses for associates | ReutersMilbank reaches deal with Trump as divide among law firms deepens | ReutersA federal judge in North Dakota vacated the Federal Reserve's rule capping debit card “swipe fees” at 21 cents per transaction, siding with retailers who have long argued the cap is too high. The decision, which found the Fed exceeded its authority by including certain costs in the fee calculation under Regulation II, will not take effect immediately to allow time for appeal. The case was brought by Corner Post, a convenience store that claimed the Fed ignored Congress's directive to set issuer- and transaction-specific standards under the 2010 Dodd-Frank Act.Banks, backed by groups like the Bank Policy Institute, defended the cap as compliant with the law, while retailers and small business advocates supported Corner Post's challenge. This is Judge Daniel Traynor's second ruling in the dispute; he initially dismissed the case in 2022 as untimely, but the U.S. Supreme Court revived it in 2024, easing limits on challenges to older regulations. An appeal to the Eighth Circuit is expected, with the losing side likely to seek Supreme Court review. The ruling comes as the Fed separately considers lowering the cap to 14.4 cents, a proposal still pending.US judge vacates Fed's debit card 'swipe fees' rule, but pauses order for appeal | ReutersTexas-based Fintiv sued Apple in federal court, accusing the company of stealing trade secrets to develop Apple Pay. Fintiv claims the mobile wallet's core technology originated with CorFire, a company it acquired in 2014, and that Apple learned of it during 2011–2012 meetings and nondisclosure agreements intended to explore licensing. According to the complaint, Apple instead hired away CorFire employees and used the technology without permission, launching Apple Pay in 2014 and expanding it globally.Fintiv alleges Apple has run an informal racketeering operation, using Apple Pay to collect transaction fees for major banks and credit card networks, generating billions in revenue without compensating Fintiv. The suit seeks compensatory and punitive damages under federal and Georgia trade secret and anti-racketeering laws, including RICO. Apple is the sole defendant and has not commented.The case follows the recent dismissal of Fintiv's related patent lawsuit against Apple in Texas, which the company plans to appeal. The new lawsuit was filed in the Northern District of Georgia, where CorFire was originally based.Lawsuit accuses Apple of stealing trade secrets to create Apple Pay | ReutersThis week's closing theme is by Antonín DvořákThis week's closing theme comes from a composer who knew how to weave folk spirit into the fabric of high art without losing either warmth or polish. Dvořák, born in 1841 in what is now the Czech Republic, grew from a village-trained violist into one of the most celebrated composers of the late 19th century. His music often married classical forms with the rhythms, turns, and dances of his homeland—an approach that made his work instantly recognizable and deeply human.His Piano Quintet No. 2 in A major, Op. 81, written in 1887, is a prime example. Dvořák had actually written an earlier piano quintet in the same key but was dissatisfied with it; rather than revise, he started fresh. The result is one of the most beloved chamber works in the repertoire. Across its four movements, the quintet blends lyrical sweep with earthy energy—romantic in scope, yet grounded in folk idiom. The opening Allegro bursts forth with an expansive theme, the piano and strings trading lines as if in animated conversation.The second movement, marked Dumka, takes its name from a Slavic song form alternating between melancholy reflection and lively dance. Here, Dvořák's gift for emotional contrast is on full display—wistful cello lines give way to playful rhythms before sinking back into introspection. The third movement is a Furiant, a fiery Czech dance bristling with syncopation and vigor, while the finale spins out buoyant melodies with an almost orchestral fullness.It is music that feels both intimate and vast, as if played in a parlor with the windows thrown open to the countryside. With this quintet, Dvořák shows how local color can speak in a universal voice—how the tunes of a homeland can travel the world without losing their soul. For our purposes, it's a reminder that endings can be celebratory, heartfelt, and just a bit homespun.Without further ado, Antonín Dvořák's Piano Quintet No. 2 in A major, Op. 81 – enjoy! 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

In this episode of the Daily Mastermind podcast, host George Wright III delves into an insightful conversation with Charlene Gisèle, a former big law litigator turned high-performance burnout coach. They explore the challenges of balancing high-stress careers with personal wellbeing and sustainable success. Charlene shares her personal journey from being a workaholic litigator to facing her father's health crisis, which catalyzed her career shift into wellness. They discuss the physical and mental changes associated with burnout, the importance of recognizing early signs, and the need for a holistic approach to recovery. Charlene emphasizes the significance of professional guidance and offers practical strategies for managing stress and achieving sustainable success. The episode also highlights valuable resources for listeners, including burnout assessments and sleep aids.00:46 Challenges of Scheduling and Coordination01:44 Background and Career Journey03:41 Building Brands and Authority06:55 Client Focus and Target Audience15:21 Personal Burnout Story23:16 Recognizing Burnout Signs28:58 The Importance of Hard Work and Balance29:15 Recognizing Burnout and Its Effects30:35 Neuroscience Behind Burnout33:30 Physical and Mental Impact of Burnout37:00 Addiction to Work and Dopamine42:16 Seeking Help and Recovery Strategies45:55 Holistic Approach to Burnout Recovery48:05 Resources and Final ThoughtsYou have Greatness inside you. I know you can Learn, Grow and Accomplish anything you put your mind toward. I appreciate you listening today.George Wright IIICEO, The Evolution Group_________________________________________________________1. Subscribe to The Daily Mastermind Podcast- daily inspiration, motivation, education2. Follow me on social media Facebook | Instagram | Linkedin | TikTok | Youtube3. Get the Prosperity Pillars Poster I Developed over 20 years from my Mentors.About the Guest: Charlène GisèleCharlène Gisèle is a former Big Law litigator turned High-Performance Coach and the founder of the Charlène Gisèle® Coaching Method. Her journey from high-pressure legal environments to holistic health and performance coaching has equipped her with deep insight into the modern epidemic of burnout and the tools necessary for sustainable recovery.After personally experiencing the toll of corporate stress, Charlène transitioned into the wellness space—integrating biohacking, neuroscience, performance psychology, and lifestyle coaching into her signature methodology. Rather than advocating for simply “working less,” she focuses on dopamine regulation, recovery optimization, and personal alignment to help her clients achieve elite-level performance without sacrificing their wellbeing.Charlène works with CEOs, entrepreneurs, and high-achievers to bridge the gap between ambition and sustainability—empowering clients to achieve more by doing less, with greater intention and balance.Guest ResourcesWebsite: charlenegisele.comInstagram: @charlenegiseleLinkedIn: Charlène Gisèle BourlioutPodcast: The Charlène Gisèle ShowYouTube: Charlène Gisèle on YouTube

Machine learning is already saving office workers from laborious research, but it also could herald the end of professional services' fee structure. In this Viewsroom podcast, Breakingviews columnists debate how lawyers, auditors and other consultants can mitigate the risk. Visit the Thomson Reuters Privacy Statement for information on our privacy and data protection practices. You may also visit megaphone.fm/adchoices to opt-out of targeted advertising.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When you're early in your legal career—or even well into it—it can feel like raising your professional profile is only possible if you're already visible. But in this episode, I share how lawyers at all levels can expand their reputation strategically, even without headlining conferences and events, or getting opportunities to publish in legal journals and publications. I walk through the barriers lawyers face with getting more external visibility, including for attorney working in-house or at firms with less resources or ability to assist their practictioners, and break down practical, ethical, and effective ways to build your brand in both the legal and business communities. From LinkedIn strategies to industry group engagement, from social circles to generosity-based networking, I cover a range of tactics that can help to gain traction. Whether you're trying to become known as a trusted expert in your niche or simply want to find a path to more leadership and client-facing opportunities, this episode outlines steps you can take now to build a stronger, more memorable presence—starting today. At a Glance: 00:00 Why visibility is hard in both junior and senior stages of your career 02:30 What to do when legal speaking and publishing opportunities feel limited 02:59 How to answer “What do you do?” in a way that reflects your expertise 04:23 The difference between title-based and value-based branding 05:09 How to quietly build industry presence on LinkedIn 06:15 A low-effort way to become a recognized voice in your niche 07:10 Why business groups (not just legal ones) matter 08:16 How social and civic groups can organically build your brand 09:02 Letting your best traits speak for themselves outside of legal roles 09:48 Writing about law-adjacent topics when legal topics are off-limits 11:01 The role of generosity in expanding your reputation 12:14 How being a “connector” gets you invited to speak and lead 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

“Every employment case is a story about betrayal,” says George Moschopoulos, who recently convinced jurors that the Los Angeles Unified School District failed to work in good faith to find his disabled client another role in the organization. Host Dan Ambrose unpacks the case, from the six-figure pretrial offer to the juror who compelled the team to pivot their strategy to the $3 million verdict. Tune in for George's insights about presenting clients as resilient survivors and mastering trial skills through deliberate practice.Train and Connect with the Titans☑️ George Moschopoulos | LinkedIn☑️ The Law Office of George Moschopoulos☑️ Trial Lawyers University☑️ TLU On Demand Instant access to live lectures, case analysis, and skills training videos☑️ TLU on X | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn☑️ Subscribe Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTubeEpisode SnapshotEngineer by day, law student by night: George traces his path.George describes how his first mentor, a Cornell Law grad with a BigLaw pedigree, guided his early career.At plaintiff's bar panel in the early-2000s, George was impressed by a speaker who discussed sexual harassment and disability discrimination and retaliation law. “I said, ‘Who's discriminating against anybody these days?' Just goes to show how little I knew.”George characterizes every employment case as a story of betrayal: the trusted relationship intentionally broken for the wrong reasons.George's first trial victory came in a disability discrimination case he thought was hopeless until discovering a smoking-gun email that advised the employer to "delete this email, smiley face."George credits TLU bootcamps for helping him change tactics, from focusing on "selling the bad" (victim suffering) to "selling the glad" (client resilience and recovery).In unpacking his recent victory on behalf of an injured school safety officer, George explains how he reframed the case after jury selection, when a 30-year district employee described school safety officers' physical intervention duties. George and Dan role-play cross-examining a defense medical expert.Produced and Powered by LawPods

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

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

If you've ever wondered why business development in BigLaw feels so slow, frustrating, and opaque even when you're doing everything right, this episode is for you. I break down the structural and strategic reasons many top-tier BigLaw attorneys struggle to build books of business.  From long sales cycles to limited access to decision makers and visibility issues within firms, I explore what's really going on beneath the surface. If you're doing all the “right” things but not seeing results yet, I walk through the key signals that you're still on the right path and why your firm might not be noticing what you're doing well.  You'll leave this episode with a better understanding of how to reframe your timeline, assess your positioning, and advocate for yourself with clarity. At a Glance: 00:00 Why business development in BigLaw often feels slow—even for high performers 02:01 Structural barriers: access, trust cycles, and firm dynamics 03:30 Why early efforts rarely lead to immediate results 04:50 How your practice area impacts business development timing and strategy 06:04 Building credibility without headline matters or public wins 07:21 Finding your authentic style even if it's not networking events 08:29 What quiet traction looks like (and why your firm might miss it) 10:14 Engagement signals that show you're on the right track 11:07 Roles and visibility that deepen client relationships 12:25 Taking ownership of your business development strategy with structure and follow-up 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  

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

Kirsten Branigan was facing an existential crisis. Working at a large New Jersey law firm with young children, she felt the rubber meeting the road in a significant way. She couldn't do everything she wanted to do with her family while meeting all the firm's requirements. Instead of just accepting the situation, Kirsten made two bold decisions. She started her own employment law firm built around flexibility and empathy. And when she heard that the New Jersey Women Lawyers Association was dying out because "women of your generation don't care about these issues," she decided to prove that wrong by leading the effort to revitalize the organization. Twenty years later, Kirsten's firm is thriving as a refuge for women lawyers, and that "dying" organization now draws over 700 people to its annual gala. As someone currently conducting research with Rutgers University on women's advancement in the legal profession, she has insights on what's actually changing for women lawyers and what isn't. In this episode of The Lawyer's Edge podcast, Elise Holtzman speaks with Kirsten about building a law firm culture that works for women lawyers, the challenges that persist across generations, and her advice for creating change: Build an Army. 3:24 - Why Kirsten left Big Law to start her own firm after an existential crisis  5:51 - The values and culture Kirsten built into her firm from day one  9:02 - How to maintain firm ideals while dealing with business pressures  11:19 - The story of revitalizing the New Jersey Women Lawyers Association  16:03 - Current challenges women face in the legal profession based on Rutgers research  23:16 - Positive shifts and trends for women in law  28:05 - The mental health crisis in the legal profession and available resources  30:31 - Understanding generational differences and approaching them with empathy  32:40 - What lawyers can do to make the profession better for everyone  38:36 - Kirsten's advice for creating lasting change: Build an Army MENTIONED IN CREATING LAW FIRM CULTURE THAT WORKS FOR WOMEN LAWYERS KS Branigan Law PC | LinkedIn New Jersey Women Lawyers Association | LinkedIn NAMWOLF New Jersey Lawyers Assistance Program 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.

This week on Conflict Managed, Alejandra Ramirez shares how the Head, Hearts, & Hands framework builds trust, strengthens culture, and aligns teams for success. Listen in to discover what it really takes to create a healthy, thriving workplace.

You're successful on paper but can't shake the feeling you haven't really "made it" without a prestigious law firm on your resume. Tiffany Obeng lived with that impostor syndrome for over a decade before finally getting her shot at Biglaw in 2023. Nine months later, she was back out. In this episode, Tiffany shares what she learned during those nine months that changed everything about how she views success, plus how she's built a children's book publishing company focused on diverse representation while working full-time in employment consulting. If you've ever wondered whether the grass is really greener at a prestigious firm, this episode is for you.See show notes at formerlawyer.com/278

The Lawyer Stories Podcast Episode 231 welcomes back Mengyue Wang, Owner and Online Coach at MW Fitness.Mengyue first joined us nearly two years ago, and this time, she shares her inspiring journey transitioning to life in Hawaii. Once an Ivy League executive, Mengyue has evolved into a Fitness and Nutrition Coach for high-performing, career-driven professionals around the world. In this episode, Mengyue emphasizes that you don't have to sacrifice your health to build a successful career. She's passionate about creating transformational experiences by identifying the GAP in each of her clients' lives and delivering real, tailored solutions.

What do you do when you realize your practice isn't working for you, and you want to do something else or leave the law altogether? You turn to an expert like Jessica Medina, who can help you figure out the financial plan to make a transition possible. Jessica is a lawyer turned Accredited Financial Counselor whose specialty is helping lawyers in this exact scenario. In this episode, listen in as Jessica and I talk about her personal transitions from Biglaw to government and eventually out of the law altogether and how she helps her clients prepare for their own transitions. Head to rhothomas.com/270 for the full episode show notes.

Listen to The Jabot podcast as Kathryn Rubino interviews attorney and author Audrey Ingram, who shares her compelling transition from a law career to writing. Explore Audrey's journey, motherhood's role in her life choices, and get a glimpse of her new novel, “The Summer We Ran,” about first loves turned political rivals. A must-listen for aspiring writers and anyone seeking inspiration to chase their dreams!   Highlights Transition from Big Law to Novel Writing Fulfillment in Motherhood Navigating Guilt and Finding Balance Inspiration for Debut Novel Elements of an Ideal Summer Beach Read Creativity and Storytelling Sources Crafting Imperfect Characters Integrating Legal Skills in Writing Balancing Creative and Business Aspects in Writing   Episode Sponsored By  https://www.lexisnexis.com/lexisplus   Links and Resources https://www.instagram.com/audreyingramwrites/?hl=en  https://www.instagram.com/zibbypublishing/?hl=en  https://audreyingramwrites.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

Few lawyers in America have handled more headline-making cases than Marc Agnifilo of Agnifilo Intrater. A former prosecutor in both the Manhattan District Attorney's Office and the U.S. Attorney's Office for New Jersey—where he and I met and became friends, around 20 years ago—Marc has defended a number of famous (some might say infamous) figures. His clients over the years have included so-called “pharma bro” Martin Shkreli, former NXIUM cult leader Keith Raniere, and Luigi Mangione, who faces state and federal charges in connection with the shooting death of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson.Earlier this month, Marc and his colleagues won acquittals for Sean “Diddy” Combs on federal racketeering and sex-trafficking charges—the most serious charges that Combs faced, which could have landed him in prison for life had he been convicted. Last week, I interviewed Marc about the trial and shared some highlights in these pages; now, I'm pleased to provide the complete podcast.Thanks to Marc for taking the time to speak with me, so thoughtfully and openly, about an interesting and momentous case—as well as his remarkable career as one of the nation's leading trial lawyers.Show Notes:* Marc Agnifilo bio, Agnifilo Intrater* How Diddy's Likable Defense Lawyer Helped Save His Unlikable Client (gift link), by Corinne Ramey and James Fanelli for The Wall Street Journal* The husband-wife legal team working on two of today's biggest criminal cases, by Eric Levenson for CNNPrefer 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've ever lost credit for work you led, grown a client relationship that someone else now claims, or watched a colleague take center stage at a pitch you prepared, this episode is for you. I walk through what professional credit theft looks like in Big Law and how to respond in a way that's smart, strategic, and fact-based. Whether it's origination, execution, or visibility, losing credit can hit your comp, promotion, and internal standing hard, and it can happen pretty often in law firms. I break down how to document your contributions, when (and how) to raise the issue, and what to do if things escalate. I'll also share some specific language you can use in emails and comp memos to reclaim credit without causing unnecessary friction. Big Law isn't always a level playing field, but this episode arms you with the tools to assert your value and protect your future. At a Glance: 00:00 Why credit theft is such a serious issue in Big Law 01:20 The three types of credit theft: origination, execution, and visibility 02:41 How to assess the real impact—on comp, promotions, and perception 03:40 What to document: emails, billing records, client praise, and more 04:57 Power dynamics: how seniority affects your strategy 05:39 When and how to confront the credit thief directly 06:20 Sample email language that's assertive but professional 07:51 The range of responses you might receive—and how to handle them 09:01 What to do next if the response is defensive or dismissive 09:40 Escalating the issue without sounding like a complainer 10:13 What to say to a mentor, group head, or comp committee member  11:02 Proactively increasing your internal visibility 11:44 A real example of leadership backing the right person 12:35 What to include in your comp memo to document your role 13:36 Why context, not just credit, matters in compensation conversations 14:23 How to quote client feedback to strengthen your case 14:57 Sample language for your comp memo when someone else has claimed your work 15:41 Why visible, fact-based stories beat vague complaints every time 16:06 The importance of defending your contributions at every stage 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  

Candisse Williamson is a highly accomplished General Counsel known for her creative deal-making and extensive legal expertise across the entertainment and corporate sectors. After graduating from Northwestern Law, she refined her corporate law skills, with a focus on M&A and private equity, at prestigious firms including Paul Weiss and King & Spalding. Her career then transitioned to entertainment, where she served as VP of Business and Legal Affairs at The Madison Square Garden Company, notably as lead attorney for the renowned Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes. Later, as General Counsel at Skybound Entertainment, Candisse built the company's legal department from the ground up, overseeing all transactions in film, TV, and gaming. She is now the GC of Hartbeat, actor and comedian Kevin Hart's media company. In this role, she established the legal department and now drives strategic deal-making across film, TV, audio, live events, and branded content, all while serving as a key member of the executive team. WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS EPISODE ABOUT BUILDING LEGAL TEAMS AND MANAGING OUTSIDE COUNSEL Most lawyers follow predictable career paths, but some find themselves in industries where the landscape shifts constantly. Candisse Williamson made the transition from corporate M&A at top firms to building legal departments in entertainment companies, where deal structures evolve rapidly and traditional contracts often don't fit. As General Counsel at Hartbeat, Kevin Hart's media company, Candisse has learned that success requires more than legal expertise. She's built two legal departments from the ground up, developed strategies for working effectively with outside counsel, and discovered that understanding the business is often more important than perfecting the legal details. In this episode of The Lawyer's Edge podcast, Elise Holtzman speaks with Candisse about her journey from Big Law to entertainment, how she approaches building and managing legal teams, and practical advice for lawyers looking to work with entertainment companies. 2:34 - Why Candisse wanted a legal career and her transition into entertainment law 5:30 - The biggest challenge for Candisse as VP/General Counsel 8:06 - How Candisse built Hartbeat's legal department from the ground up 11:09 -  Two main purposes of outside counsel and how Candisse maintains relationships  13:56 - Candisse's philosophy about handling difficult conversations with outside counsel 16:52 - How you can rise above the crowded field and grow a book of business as a private practice lawyer 23:18 - Why Candisse emphasizes diversity in her staffing decisions 25:43 - Challenges in the constantly evolving world of entertainment and media 30:03 - Candisse's personality and adaptability as an attorney  33:53 - Highly critical advice for in-house counsel   MENTIONED IN STRATEGY AND TALENT: HOW ONE GENERAL COUNSEL BUILDS LEGAL TEAMS AND CHOOSES OUTSIDE COUNSEL Hartbeat | LinkedIn | Instagram Laugh Out Loud Network: YouTube | TikTok | Instagram | Facebook | Snapchat | Twitter/X Anthony Desimone | Making AI Work For Your Law Firm Without Compromising Security or Excellence 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.

Your network often sees your magic before you do. J. Kelly Hoey, author of Build Your Dream Network, proved this when her colleagues had to convince her that networking was actually her superpower. As my very first podcast guest, Kelly set the tone for what Branding Room Only is all about: clarity, candor, and community-centered insight.Kelly's brand is grounded in helping others succeed through meaningful connections. Her approach has transformed careers for countless entrepreneurs and leaders, and her journey from Big Law to entrepreneurship proves the power of strategic relationship building. In this special re-release, we dive deep into what personal branding really means, how your network reflects and reinforces your brand, and why your elevator pitch should be an invitation, not a monologue.Whether this is your first time hearing this conversation or you're back for a refresher, get ready to take notes. This episode is packed with foundational wisdom that never goes out of style.2:30 – What personal brand means to Kelly and why you need to listen to your network5:04 – Kelly's approach to elevator pitches and networking your ambitions11:11 – How Kelly describes herself and the Central Park analogy that changed everything16:14 – The Oscar Wilde quote that guides Kelly when she feels off track18:12 – Kelly's hype song from a Quincy Jones compilation20:00 – How Kelly's network convinced her to write Build Your Dream Network23:40 – Why personal branding became the confidence builder she needed27:04 – Mentors who shaped Kelly's career (including some unexpected lessons)31:45 – The pivotal career change that taught Kelly about plan B35:00 – The best advice about having a plan B (spoiler: you shouldn't have one)37:19 – The biggest networking mistake and why "don't be a jerk" is the real secret41:41 – Kelly's best advice for building your brand through your network43:25 – How to handle network feedback about your ambitions45:04 – Kelly's "Stand By Your Brand" moment and her networking magicMentioned In Building Your Personal Brand Through Authentic Connections with J. Kelly HoeyJ. Kelly Hoey Books by J. Kelly Hoey“Carla Harris | The 2016 MAKERS Conference” - YouTube“Rock With You” | Brandy and Heavy D | From Q. With Love - YouTubeNew York City Bar AssociationPearls of Power: How to Use Authenticity, Boldness, and Intentionality with Carla HarrisLearn More About Paula's Personal Branding Strategy Session OfferFollow & Review: Help others find the podcast. Subscribe and leave a quick review.Sponsor for this episodePGE Consulting Group LLC empowers individuals and organizations to lead with purpose, presence, and impact. Specializing in leadership development and personal branding, we offer keynotes, custom programming, consulting, and strategic advising—all designed to elevate influence and performance at every level.Founded and led by Paula Edgar, our work centers on practical strategies that enhance professional development, strengthen workplace culture, and drive meaningful, measurable change.To learn more about Paula and her services, go to www.paulaedgar.com or contact her at info@paulaedgar.com, and follow Paula Edgar and the PGE Consulting Group LLC on LinkedIn.

This Day in Legal History: Jane Matilda Bolin Appointed to BenchOn this day in 1939, Jane Matilda Bolin shattered a historic barrier when she was appointed by New York City Mayor Fiorello LaGuardia as a judge of the city's Domestic Relations Court. With that appointment, Bolin became the first Black woman to serve as a judge in the United States. A graduate of Wellesley College and Yale Law School—where she was the first Black woman to earn a law degree—Bolin entered a profession that had few women and even fewer people of color. Her appointment was more than symbolic; she used her position to advocate for children and families, ensuring fair treatment for all who appeared before her court.Judge Bolin served with distinction for four decades, retiring in 1979. During her tenure, she challenged policies that segregated children based on race in publicly funded childcare agencies and fought to assign probation officers without regard to ethnicity or religion. She approached family law not as a soft discipline, but as a critical area where justice, equity, and social stability intersect. Bolin's presence on the bench helped normalize the inclusion of women—and particularly women of color—in legal authority roles.Her quiet determination and policy reform work made lasting impacts in juvenile justice and child welfare. Despite the deep racial and gender bias of her era, Bolin held fast to a vision of a fairer legal system. Today, her legacy lives on in the increasing diversity of the judiciary and in reforms aimed at making family courts more humane and equitable. Her appointment marked the beginning of a broader movement toward inclusion in American legal institutions.Donald Trump's defamation lawsuit against The Wall Street Journal faces a significant procedural hurdle under Florida law, as legal experts point out he may not have followed the state's five-day pre-suit notice requirement for suing a media outlet. Trump filed the suit in Miami federal court, seeking at least $10 billion per defamation count over a July 17 article linking him to a birthday greeting for Jeffrey Epstein that allegedly included a sexually suggestive drawing and reference to shared secrets. The Journal has stood by its reporting and pledged to defend itself.Beyond the timing issue, Trump will also need to meet the demanding “actual malice” standard, which requires public figures to prove that a publication knowingly or recklessly published false information. Legal experts note that simply disputing a claim's truth doesn't suffice—Trump must show the Journal deliberately lied. The large monetary figure Trump is seeking appears to be more for public attention than legal plausibility, especially considering recent precedent like Fox News' $787.5 million settlement with Dominion and Alex Jones' $1.3 billion defamation judgment.Trump's suit follows a pattern of litigation against the press, with mixed outcomes. Courts have dismissed previous cases against CNN and The New York Times, while some outlets like ABC and Paramount have settled. Experts caution that while Trump's case may ultimately fail, his persistent use of defamation claims could chill press freedom due to the high cost of legal defense. The article also draws a parallel to former Trump ally Dan Bongino, whose defamation case was dismissed for a similar procedural misstep.Trump's Wall Street Journal suit over Epstein story faces timing hurdle | ReutersFormer Louisville police officer Brett Hankison was sentenced to 33 months in prison for violating Breonna Taylor's civil rights during the 2020 raid that led to her death. The sentence came despite a surprising, that is to say not at all surprising, request from the Trump Justice Department for only a one-day sentence. U.S. District Judge Rebecca Grady Jennings criticized that recommendation, calling it politically influenced and inconsistent with the gravity of the case. Although Hankison didn't fire the fatal shots, a federal jury convicted him in 2024 for endangering Taylor and her neighbors by firing blindly during the raid.Taylor, a Black woman, was killed when officers executed a no-knock warrant at her home. Her boyfriend, thinking the officers were intruders, legally fired a shot, prompting a hail of police gunfire. Her death, along with George Floyd's, fueled nationwide protests against police brutality.Hankison apologized in court, claiming he would have acted differently if he had known the warrant was flawed. The sentence was at the low end of federal guidelines but far exceeded what Trump's Justice Department sought. That sentencing memo was notably unsigned by career prosecutors and was submitted by political appointees, signaling a shift in the department's stance on police accountability.Taylor's family and boyfriend urged the court to impose the maximum penalty, calling the lenient recommendation an insult. Under President Biden, the Justice Department had reversed course, bringing charges in both the Taylor and Floyd cases to hold officers accountable.US judge sentences ex-police officer to 33 months for violating civil rights of Breonna Taylor | ReutersThe Justice Department has appealed a federal court ruling that struck down a directive from President Donald Trump targeting the law firm Jenner & Block. The appeal was filed with the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit after U.S. District Judge John D. Bates ruled that Trump's March 25 order violated the firm's First Amendment rights. The directive had cited Jenner's past employment of Andrew Weissmann, a former partner involved in Special Counsel Robert Mueller's Russia investigation—an affiliation Trump viewed as politically adversarial.Judge Bates found the order to be retaliatory, noting it punished Jenner for its court work and lawyer associations. Trump's order was part of a broader pattern of targeting major law firms linked to perceived political opponents. Other actions under similar orders included attempts to cancel federal contracts, revoke security clearances, and block law firm personnel from federal buildings.Jenner & Block, represented by a legal team from Cooley, said it welcomed the opportunity to reaffirm the lower court's ruling on appeal, defending its right to represent clients without political interference. The Justice Department's move mirrors similar appeals in cases involving Perkins Coie and Susman Godfrey, signaling a continued legal defense of Trump actions against Big Law firms.DOJ Appeals Ruling for Jenner & Block in Trump Big Law BattleMy column for Bloomberg this week argues that the IRS's recent retreat from enforcing the Johnson Amendment through a consent decree signals a quiet dismantling of the traditional legal framework governing political speech by churches. The Johnson Amendment, a 1954 law, prohibits 501(c)(3) organizations from endorsing or opposing political candidates. While the IRS hasn't officially repealed the rule, its failure to enforce it undermines its authority and creates legal uncertainty. I point out that in today's media environment, religious speech and political messaging often blur, making enforcement even more complicated.I propose a clearer, more functional alternative: creating a new legal category called “Religious-Political Entity.” Under this designation, churches that wish to engage in explicit political activity could do so—provided they accept trade-offs like losing the ability to receive tax-deductible donations, disclosing their political spending, and separating charitable and campaign funds. This approach would preserve the rights of churches to speak on political issues aligned with their missions while drawing a firm line at partisan campaigning.The current ambiguity risks selective enforcement and invites abuse. Only Congress, not courts or ad hoc consent decrees, can craft the statutory structure needed to balance religious free speech with tax law integrity.New ‘Religious-Political Entity' Category Would Clear Up Tax Law 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

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

If you've ever found yourself rewriting an email ten times, hedging every sentence in a memo, or avoiding a hard conversation with a colleague or client—you're not alone. In this episode, I dive into why communication is one of the most underestimated challenges in Big Law, and how it can make or break your success. Lawyers are trained for precision and risk mitigation—not for clarity or connection. And firm culture only reinforces that. But when your writing is dense, your feedback is vague, or your tone is overly formal, it's not just style—it's a barrier to effective leadership, client trust, and team performance. In this episode, I break down the most common communication traps in Big Law, why even the top attorneys fall into them, and how to shift toward language that is actually helpful, direct, and practical. From speaking up without a fully formed answer to giving (and receiving) better feedback, this episode is packed with specific strategies you can apply right away. At a Glance: 00:00 Why communication challenges are so common in Big Law 01:20 How legal training encourages hedged, dense, and formal language 02:09 The difference between being technically correct and being useful 03:00 Real examples of communication breakdowns with clients and teams 04:13 The cultural factors that cause lawyers to avoid directness 05:03 Why fear of being wrong leads to silence or delay 05:33 How conflict avoidance undermines feedback and clarity 06:32 Expertise isn't communication—why tone, context, and structure matter 07:27 What better communication actually looks like 07:51 How to write clearly: start with what the reader needs to know 08:18 The role of senior lawyers in modeling direct, contextual feedback 08:41 What to say (and ask) when vague comments like “fix this” come up 09:06 Why it's okay not to have all the answers—and what to say instead 09:29 Spotting and replacing gobbledygook language in firm conversations 09:53 How firm hierarchy silences real dialogue 10:15 The importance of regular, real-time, two-way feedback 10:55 How to ask clarifying questions without apologizing 11:44 Why lawyers sound overly formal—and how to sound human again 12:10 Read the room: adjust your tone and delivery to your audience 12:33 Final thoughts: break bad habits, aim for clarity over complexity 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  

Darin Klemchuk is the CEO of Klemchuk PLLC, a leading litigation, intellectual property, and business law firm based in Dallas, Texas. Klemchuk focuses his practice on IP litigation (patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets), IP enforcement and anti-counterfeiting programs, and IP strategy.  He helps clients build market share and block competitors through intellectual property law.  Darin is also the co-founder of Engage Workspace for Lawyers, an executive suite built by and for lawyers. He writes and speaks about human performance optimization, marketing and business development, leadership, entrepreneurship, law firm culture, and intellectual property law–all designed to encourage others to rethink what it means to be a lawyer, business owner, and leader in today's legal profession and beyond. WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS EPISODE ABOUT LAW FIRM LEADERSHIP Most lawyers follow the traditional path of making partner, building a book, and climbing the ladder. But what happens when you're wired differently? When the conventional approach to practicing law feels fundamentally wrong for who you are as a person and leader? Darin Klemchuk faced exactly this crossroads. With a stable Big Law job, a second child on the way, and zero portable business, he made what most would consider a crazy decision. He walked away from partnership to build something better. Twenty years later, he's proven that leading from within can create strong results in both law and life. In this episode of The Lawyer's Edge podcast, Elise Holtzman speaks with Darin about his journey from Big Law to entrepreneurship, his 62-minute plank hold experience, why the "platinum rule" works better than the golden rule for leaders, and how personal growth became the foundation for his firm's success. 2:06 - Darin's “Jerry Maguire” moment of launching his firm and how he got his first clients 5:57 - How the seeds of leadership and entrepreneurism were planted in Darin's youth 7:56 - The difference between leadership, management, and coaching  9:38 - One critical aspect of leadership that requires self-awareness 12:49 - The plank hold method and how you can apply it in your practice 17:33 - The immense value of peer networks for business development 22:06 - Why Darin designed anti-counterfeiting software programs to protect luxury brands' IP 23:58 - The better rule to follow for leaders with unique personality traits 28:15 - What Darin finds fascinating about the concept of happiness  32:16 - One of the greatest tragedies you can experience when you become successful   MENTIONED IN LEADING FROM WITHIN: HOW PERSONAL GROWTH FUELS LAW FIRM LEADERSHIP Klemchuk PLLC | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram Engage Workspace for Lawyers | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram Unbeatable Mind Entrepreneurs' Organization Vistage Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill Culture Index 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 coaching team at The Lawyer's Edge, a training and coaching firm that has been focused exclusively on lawyers and law firms since 2008. Each member of The Lawyer's Edge coaching team is a trained, certified, and experienced professional coach—and either a former practicing attorney or a former law firm marketing and business development professional. Whatever your professional objectives, our coaches can help you achieve your goals more quickly, more easily, and with significantly less stress. To get connected with your coach, just email the team at hello@thelawyersedge.com.

In this powerful conversation, I sit down with writer and creator Lia Higgins (@onelitmama_) to talk about the unraveling and rebuilding that often comes with new motherhood. A former Big Law attorney turned full-time content creator and writer, Lia opens up about the trauma of childbirth, the crushing weight of postpartum depression, and the unconventional treatment that changed everything: ketamine therapy. Please note: this is one woman's personal experience under the guidance of trained professionals. Consult your doctor with any questions.Lia shares the raw truth about becoming a mother, navigating rage, resentment, identity loss, and what it's like growing her online presence alongside her mother-in-law, Shark Tank's Barbara Corcoran. We talk about Lia's viral essays for Oprah Daily and HuffPost, the cultural silence around maternal mental health, and how privilege, money, and access can shape the path to recovery.From religion and marriage to social media and storytelling, this episode is a must-listen for anyone who's ever felt isolated in the chaos or craved a little more honesty in the motherhood space.Watch this episode in video form on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjmevEcbh5h5FEX0pazPEtN86t7eb2OgX To apply to be a guest on the show, visit luciefink.com/apply and send us your story. I also want to extend a special thank you to East Love for the show's theme song, Rolling Stone. Follow the show on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealstuffpod Find Lucie here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luciebfink/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@luciebfink YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/luciebfinkWebsite: https://luciefink.com/ Executive Producer: Cloud10Produced by Dear Media.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On today's Legally Speaking Podcast, I am delighted to be joined by Jonathan Keen.Jonathan is the Senior Director of Legal, International at Figma, a leading collaborative design tool for building meaningful products. With over 12 years of experience as an in-house lawyer for high-growth businesses, he provides legal advice on strategic initiatives.He is also a Member of the Global Legal and International Leadership Teams at Figma. Jonathan has been recognised in the Lawyer Hot 100, Legal Business GC Powerlist and the British Legal Awards. So why should you be listening in? You can hear Rob and Jonathan discussing:- Jonathan Moving from Private Practice to In-House Legal Roles- Figma's International Growth and Success- Legal Team Empowerment and Motivation- The Importance of Continuous Improvement in Tech Company Culture- Career Advice and Key Recommendations from JonathanConnect with Jonathan here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-keen-6748a9143/

President Trump has issued executive orders targeting certain law firms, seeking to restrict their business endeavors. While some firms have settled, others have fought back. We look at why firms have chosen different paths, and whether Trump's orders — some of which have been struck down in court — present legal questions themselves. This podcast: voting correspondent Miles Parks, national justice correspondent Carrie Johnson, and senior political editor & correspondent Domenico Montanaro.This podcast was produced by Bria Suggs, and edited by Casey Morell. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi.Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy