The Jabot
We are an offshoot of the Above the Law legal blog. But we are focused on the challenges women, people of color, LGBTQIA, and other diverse populations face in the legal industry. Let's be real -- it can suck out there. So we want to create a space where our community can come together share stories, find support and devise strategies. Our name comes from none other than the Notorious Ruth Bader Ginsburg and the jabot (decorative collar) she wears when delivering dissents from the bench. It's a reminder that --even when we aren't winning, we're still a powerful force to be reckoned with.
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A Lawyer's Quest To Help Victims Of Abuse with Alreen Haeggquist - Episode 190
03/07/2025
A Lawyer's Quest To Help Victims Of Abuse with Alreen Haeggquist - Episode 190
Kathryn Rubino chats with special guest Alreen Haeggquist, an attorney and author of “Fired Up! Fueling Triumph from Trauma.” Discover Alreen’s inspiring journey of turning personal trauma into a powerful legal career advocating for abuse survivors. It’s a heartfelt discussion on resilience, the therapeutic power of speaking out, and finding balance in emotionally charged legal work. Perfect for aspiring lawyers seeking purpose and passion in their careers. Highlights Importance of Sharing Personal Stories: Helping others by sharing one’s own trauma. Emotional Connection: Relating personal experiences to client advocacy. Speaking Out: The significance of addressing trauma through expression. Balancing Emotion with Law: Challenges and strategies in emotionally charged cases. Harnessing Triggers: Using past trauma to fuel passionate advocacy. Risk of Burnout: Mitigation strategies for emotionally demanding work. Advocacy Against Power Dynamics: Fighting against perceived power and hierarchy. Dealing with Client Fears: Building trust and support during vulnerable times. Victory through Voice: The importance of being believed and heard. Business and Passion: Balancing financial realities with passionate advocacy. Trauma Informed Lawyering: Importance of understanding trauma in client relationships. Episode Sponsored By Links and Resources Subscribe, Share and Review To get the next episode subscribe with your favorite podcast player.
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Playing Games With The Supreme Court with Talia Rosen - Episode 189
02/28/2025
Playing Games With The Supreme Court with Talia Rosen - Episode 189
Kathryn Rubino chats with Talia Rosen, the lawyer-turned-board game creator. Her game, “First Monday in October”, offers a strategic dive into U.S. Supreme Court history. Discover her creative process and how it brings legal history alive in an engaging way. Tune in for behind-the-scenes insights into her 10-year journey from concept to a playable reality! Highlights Law school decision: Intentional or accidental? First Monday in October: Supreme Court-themed board game. Game mechanics: Historical cases and justices. Balancing day job and game creation. Board Game Creation: Creative process and iteration. Game testing: Community feedback and play-testing events. Choosing gameplay: Strategy and historical accuracy. Historical trivia: Fascinating facts about past justices. Episode Sponsored By Links and Resources Subscribe, Share and Review To get the next episode subscribe with your favorite podcast player.
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Who Gets To Call Themselves A 'Professional'? Law Professor Breaks Down The Licensing Scheme with Rebecca Haw Allensworth - Episode 188
02/21/2025
Who Gets To Call Themselves A 'Professional'? Law Professor Breaks Down The Licensing Scheme with Rebecca Haw Allensworth - Episode 188
Kathryn Rubino chats with Rebecca Haw Allensworth, a Vanderbilt Law School professor and author of “The Licensing Racket”. Discover the untold stories behind professional licensing, the unexpected impact on various careers, and why these regulations might not always serve the public. Rebecca’s firsthand research brings intriguing insights into how licensing affects professions from barbers to doctors and potential reforms. Don’t miss this chance to rethink the system that shapes many of our careers!. Highlights English vs. Law: Career advice. Antitrust: Economical dominance. Licensing paper: Supreme Court citation. Licensing board meetings investigation. Self-regulation across professions. Over-regulation: Haircuts vs. law degrees. Professional licenses as American Dream. Legal profession self-dealing. Cross-disciplinary board potential. Federalism complicates licensing reform. Hope for future board reforms. Episode Sponsored By Links and Resources Subscribe, Share and Review To get the next episode subscribe with your favorite podcast player.
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The Fight For Rights Continues: The View From Legal Academia with Jackie Gardina - Episode 187
02/14/2025
The Fight For Rights Continues: The View From Legal Academia with Jackie Gardina - Episode 187
Kathryn Rubino chats with Jackie Gardina, Dean and Chief Academic Officer of The Colleges of Law, about systemic change, legal education, and the hurdles to entering the legal profession. Gain insights on LGBTQ rights, bar exam reform, and advice for future law students. A must-listen for those interested in modern legal challenges! Highlights From clinical therapy to a passion for law. Systemic change as a career theme. Multiple pathways to change: Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell. Legal battles and the evolution of rights. Repeal challenges for LGBTQIA rights. Voting rights history as a movement. State-level demonization of LGBTQ youth. Federalism’s effect on state rights. Bar exam as an exclusionary mechanism. Disconnect between bar exam and legal practice. COVID as an inflection point for bar reform. The push for bar exam reform in California. Critique of law school’s alignment with practice. Episode Sponsored By Links and Resources Subscribe, Share and Review To get the next episode subscribe with your favorite podcast player.
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Criminal Defense Attorney Fights For Clients With Mental Disabilities with Elizabeth Kelley - Episode 186
11/19/2024
Criminal Defense Attorney Fights For Clients With Mental Disabilities with Elizabeth Kelley - Episode 186
Kathryn Rubino chats with Elizabeth Kelley, a dedicated criminal defense attorney fighting for justice for individuals with mental disabilities. Kelley shares her journey from literature student to a passionate advocate in a field needing reform. Her insights into mental health law and her hands-on approach to client representation are inspiring and thought-provoking. Tune in to discover why compassion and understanding are vital in the legal world, and how her work hopes to shape a more inclusive justice system. Highlights Balancing humanities and law. Outrage about mental disabilities. Finding fulfillment in criminal defense. Starting a law firm. Lessons from opening a practice. Importance of wellness and coaching. Mental wellness in law school. Writing practical guides for lawyers. Value of independent forensic evaluations. A powerful courtroom experience. The role of problem-solving courts. Advice for pursuing justice for mental disabilities. Episode Sponsored By Links and Resources Subscribe, Share and Review To get the next episode subscribe with your favorite podcast player.
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You Have To Change How You Think About Free Speech with Mary Anne Franks - Episode 185
11/05/2024
You Have To Change How You Think About Free Speech with Mary Anne Franks - Episode 185
Kathryn Rubino chats with Mary Anne Franks, a leading voice in Intellectual Property and Civil Rights Law. Uncover the essence of fearless speech and why it’s crucial in today’s world. Explore bold concepts from her new book that challenge conventional First Amendment beliefs. A must-listen for anyone intrigued by legal boundaries and free speech dynamics! Highlights Life and career updates since 2020. Transition from Miami to George Washington University. Balancing academia and publication. Clear communication as education and writing goal. Importance of free speech. Why focus on the First Amendment in the second book. The constant evolution of First Amendment discussions. Public and legal misconceptions about censorship. Members of Congress misunderstanding censorship. New framework for evaluating and understanding free speech. Definition and importance of “Fearless Speech.” Story of Dorothy Thompson as an example of fearless speech. Difference between protecting and promoting speech. University campuses and the issue of controversial speakers. Episode Sponsored By Links and Resources Subscribe, Share and Review To get the next episode subscribe with your favorite podcast player.
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Using Your Law Degree For Good with Dale Margolin Cecka - Episode 184
10/22/2024
Using Your Law Degree For Good with Dale Margolin Cecka - Episode 184
In this episode, host Kathryn Rubino interviews Dale Margolin Cecka, Albany Law School professor and director of family violence litigation. Discover her journey in law, challenges in child advocacy, and insights on family law education. Gain a deeper understanding of domestic violence legislation, its impact on survivors, and potential legal reforms. A must-listen for anyone interested in law, justice, and societal change! Highlights Why law school: a journey to child advocacy. Transition from child advocacy to family law. Challenges with systems in child advocacy. Discovering a passion for family law. Law school clinics: bridging practice and theory. Role of clinics in true legal education. Traits that align with family law practice. Violence Against Women Act's impact and shortcomings. Critical issues with protective orders enforcement. Need for public education on domestic abuse. Future of domestic violence law reform. Episode Sponsored By Links and Resources Subscribe, Share and Review To get the next episode subscribe with your favorite podcast player.
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Former Biglaw Partner Writes Biting Novel Dishing On What's Wrong With The Profession with Luba Shur - Episode 183
10/08/2024
Former Biglaw Partner Writes Biting Novel Dishing On What's Wrong With The Profession with Luba Shur - Episode 183
Join host Kathryn as she chats with Luba Shur, author of “Rule 23” about her journey from law to novelist. Discover her insights on legal ethics, the myth of class actions, and how she balances writing with a legal career. A must-listen for aspiring lawyer-authors! Highlights Intersection of reality and fantasy in career choice Early reading and legal career expectations Surprising twists and interesting outcomes in legal career Balancing writing and legal career Rule 23 as a skewer of legal profession dysfunction Inspiration behind the character Vera Creating compelling flawed characters Challenges of legal ethics and ambition Significance of mentorship and legal education critique Reality of Rule 23 and litigation process Future writing projects exploring startup culture Advice for balancing legal careers with writing Episode Sponsored By Links and Resources Subscribe, Share and Review To get the next episode subscribe with your favorite podcast player.
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How To Create A Fulfilling Law Practice with Calyssa Zellars and Kya Henley - Episode 182
10/01/2024
How To Create A Fulfilling Law Practice with Calyssa Zellars and Kya Henley - Episode 182
Discover the inspiring journeys of Calyssa Zellars Kya Henley, founders of Saint Park Law, on this episode of the Jabot Podcast! Learn how these two dynamic lawyers navigated non-linear career paths, left big law to start their own firm, and stayed true to their mission. Gain insights into their unique approach to crisis management and investigations, the importance of intentional practice, and how they’ve blended personal passion with professional excellence. Don’t miss this episode for a fresh take on entrepreneurship in law! Highlights Why law school? Personal motivations for impactful careers. Career transition: Becoming civil rights attorneys. Non-linear career path: From Detroit Lions to PR. Public defender experience: Passion fueled by Trayvon Martin case. Entrepreneurship: Founding Saint Park Law. Building a mission: Aligning skills with passion. Identity in firm name: Personal maternal lineage inspiration. Balancing work and life: Strategies for managing mental health. Advice for new lawyers: “No one knows you better than you.” Encouragement to be pioneers: Charting unique career paths. Episode Sponsored By Links and Resources Subscribe, Share and Review To get the next episode subscribe with your favorite podcast player.
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Harvard Law Grad Shares What You Really Need To Know Before Applying To Law School with Calandra Almond - Episode 181
09/24/2024
Harvard Law Grad Shares What You Really Need To Know Before Applying To Law School with Calandra Almond - Episode 181
Join Kathryn Rubino as she chats with Harvard Law grad and Juris Education admissions counselor Calandra Almond. Discover how to navigate law school admissions, balance career goals, and set realistic expectations. Almond’s personal journey offers invaluable insights—don’t miss out! Highlights Personal law school journey. Considering what you want your life to look like. Admissions counseling and career mistakes. Making realistic decisions about law school. The importance of the LSAT. Diversity in law school admissions and potential impacts. Be true to yourself and what you want out of life. Episode Sponsored By Links and Resources Subscribe, Share and Review To get the next episode subscribe with your favorite podcast player.
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Writing The Kind Of Legal Story You Want To Read with Lori Duff - Episode 180
09/17/2024
Writing The Kind Of Legal Story You Want To Read with Lori Duff - Episode 180
In this episode, Kathryn chats with Lori Duff, author of the upcoming book, “Devil’s Defense.” Lori shares candid insights about her accidental journey into law, her love for trial work, and the striking realism that underpins her novel. Discover her struggles balancing a legal career with writing, the hilarious challenges of introducing technology to courts during COVID, and her advice for lawyers with creative passions. This episode offers a compelling portrait of a small-town lawyer’s life and the passion driving her literary journey. Highlights Lori’s decision to go to law school. The connection between performance and trial work. Building a practice in a small town. Incorporating small-town southern life in “Devil’s Defense.” Realistic portrayal of legal practice in the book. Impact of politician’s confirmation hearing on Lori’s writing. Developing the “Fisher At Law” series. Balancing writing with legal practice. Impact of COVID on legal practice and Lori’s role in the state-level response. Frustrations with technology adoption in the legal field. Technology’s lasting implications in law post-COVID. Navigating from conception to publication as an author. Importance of finding time for personal passions. Episode Resources Episode Sponsored By Subscribe, Share and Review To get the next episode subscribe with your favorite podcast player.
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Figuring Out If Family Law Is For You with Holly J. Moore - Episode 179
09/10/2024
Figuring Out If Family Law Is For You with Holly J. Moore - Episode 179
Dive into The Jabot podcast with Kathryn Rubino featuring Holly J. Moore, founder of Moore Family Law! Holly shares her journey from soul-sucking construction defect cases to the emotionally charged world of family law. Learn about the realities, challenges, and rewards of starting your own firm. Find out why family law “finds you” and get inspired by her tips for aspiring lawyers. Don’t miss this engaging and honest conversation—perfect for anyone interested in the human aspect of legal practice. Highlights Why pursue law? Early inspiration. “You don’t find family law, family law finds you.” Shift from construction law to family law. Managing high stakes and emotional cases. The balance between personal and professional life. Growing a solo practice and team. Hiring a coaching company for business growth. Memorable case with a significant age gap. Common misconceptions about family law from fellow lawyers. The argument against eliminating no-fault divorce. Episode Sponsored By Subscribe, Share and Review To get the next episode subscribe with your favorite podcast player.
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The Power Of Quitting Biglaw To Pursue A Childhood Dream with Jiadai Lin - Episode 178
09/03/2024
The Power Of Quitting Biglaw To Pursue A Childhood Dream with Jiadai Lin - Episode 178
Kathryn Rubino chats with Jiadai Lin, author and winner of the Sandra Carpenter Prize for Creative Nonfiction. Discover Jiadai’s journey from big law to heartfelt storytelling, balancing law and literature with grace. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation on following your true passion! Highlights The straightforwardness of a legal career versus the uncertainty of a writing career. Jiadai’s compartmentalization of her law career and writing career. The emotional impact and challenges of leaving Big Law to pursue writing. The struggle and eventual acceptance of failures in her early writing career. The flexibility and benefits of working at a startup law firm while writing. The significant impact of winning the Sandra Carpenter Prize. The deep personal nature of her writing and its vulnerability. The role of memory and its imperfection in writing memoirs. Advice for lawyers harboring creative ambitions. The importance of giving oneself permission to pursue passions. Links and Resources Episode Sponsored By Subscribe, Share and Review To get the next episode subscribe with your favorite podcast player.
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Biglaw Firm Steps Up Big In Pro Bono with Rachel Elkin - Episode 177
08/27/2024
Biglaw Firm Steps Up Big In Pro Bono with Rachel Elkin - Episode 177
Join host Kathryn Rubino who chats with Rachel Elkin, Pro Bono Counsel at Haynes Boone. Discover Rachel’s journey from a family of lawyers to championing public interest work and navigating her unexpected transition into Big Law. Gain insights on the rewarding and challenging aspects of pro bono work and how it shapes careers and communities. A must-listen for legal enthusiasts and those inspired by impactful lawyering. Highlights Why Rachel Elkin went to law school. First exposure to public interest law. Importance of law school clinics. Key mentorship in law school. How Rachel secured her first nonprofit job. Transitioning from nonprofit to big law. Role and importance of a pro bono counsel. Managing pro bono case selection. Balancing billable hours with pro bono work. Rachel’s long-term goals for the firm’s pro bono program. Episode Sponsored By Subscribe, Share and Review To get the next episode subscribe with your favorite podcast player.
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Law As The First Step In Nuclear Weapon Abolition with Charles Moxley - Episode 176
08/20/2024
Law As The First Step In Nuclear Weapon Abolition with Charles Moxley - Episode 176
Join host Kathryn Rubino in a riveting episode with law professor Charles Moxley, expert and author of “Nuclear Weapons and International Law”. Discover the legal complexities and real-world implications of nuclear policy, deterrence, and modernization. Can law guide us towards nuclear abolition? Stay informed and engaged! Highlights Examining the US’s nuclear policies versus international law. The esoteric nature of international law and its neglect. Different alerts and readiness levels in nuclear weapons policy. Legal principle of precaution and US non-compliance. Distinction, proportionality, and necessity in nuclear law. Nuclear deterrence vs. readiness explained. Russia-Ukraine conflict’s impact on nuclear weapon risks. Failures in US policy to reconsider nuclear weapon modernization. The inadequate concern among younger generations about nuclear risks. Comparison between legal treatments of nuclear, chemical, and biological weapons. Appeal to consider law as the path to nuclear abolition. Episode Sponsored By Subscribe, Share and Review To get the next episode subscribe with your favorite podcast player.
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From Child Star To Lawyer with Kelly Hyman - Episode 175
08/13/2024
From Child Star To Lawyer with Kelly Hyman - Episode 175
Kathryn Rubino welcomes Kelly Hyman, founder of the Hyman Law Firm and host of “Once Upon a Crime in Hollywood”. Journey through Kelly’s shift from a childhood acting career to making a significant impact in the legal world, advocating for victims of human trafficking and navigating the complexities of starting her own law firm. Kelly shares her passion for true crime and how her podcast, focusing on Hollywood-related cases with female victims, aims to make a difference. An inspiring listen for anyone interested in law, justice, and compelling storytelling! Highlights The impact of a 65-year-old law school peer. Supported into acting career by family friend Charlton Heston. Founding her own firm: balancing passion and practicality. Human trafficking and mass torts: main practice areas. Podcasting inspired by appearance on Nancy Grace’s show. True crime podcast motivated by fascination with mysteries. Focus on cases affecting women in the entertainment industry. Episode Sponsored By Subscribe, Share and Review To get the next episode subscribe with your favorite podcast player.
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Exposing The Originalism Lie with Madiba Dennie - Episode 174
07/16/2024
Exposing The Originalism Lie with Madiba Dennie - Episode 174
Kathryn chats with Madiba Dennie, deputy editor at Balls and Strikes, about her new book, “The Originalism Trap”. Discover how originalist ideology affects our legal system, and why it’s crucial to challenge it. A must-listen for anyone curious about the evolving role of law and justice! Highlights Potential of the law to help or hurt people. Mediba’s career path in public interest law. Transition from legal practice to legal commentary. Writing process of “The Originalism Trap.” The Originalism Trap: Motivation behind writing the book. Importance of reconstruction amendments in refuting originalism. Modern consequences of originalism: Dobbs and Bruen cases. Originalism’s flawed historical analysis. Originalism’s strategic organizational success. Federalist Society’s influence on conservative legal professionals. Inclusive constitutionalism as a counter to originalism. Effective communication: Making interpretations matter to regular people. The broader impact of judicial decisions on various issues. Emerging positive trends: Law students and optimism. Understanding history to drive change and hope. Episode Sponsored By Subscribe, Share and Review To get the next episode subscribe with your favorite podcast player.
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Helping Businesses Help Themselves with Peter Bronstein - Episode 173
07/09/2024
Helping Businesses Help Themselves with Peter Bronstein - Episode 173
Kathryn chats with Peter Bronstein, a radio show host and founder of Legal Steps. Peter shares why he became a lawyer, driven by a desire for fairness, and narrates his journey from in-house counsel to successful independent practice. Discover compelling stories of his career highs, advice for aspiring lawyers, and insights on challenges faced by small businesses today, including navigating new regulations like the Corporate Transparency Act. It’s a must-listen for anyone interested in legal careers and business law! Highlights Defense of a young Bitcoin exchange owner. Making the leap to start a solo practice: motivations and challenges. Importance of understanding law practice management before going solo. Early strategies for building a new practice. Challenges faced by small businesses in 2024. Corporate Transparency Act: new regulatory requirements for businesses. Value of regulations discussed. Importance of legal expenses: “Pay me now or pay me 10 times later.” Transition to radio show host and purpose behind Ask Brian. Highs and lows of a legal career: litigation victories and bankruptcy heartbreaks. Episode Sponsored By Subscribe, Share and Review To get the next episode subscribe with your favorite podcast player.
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Biglaw Partner Gets Real About Mentorship with Jane Arnold - Episode 172
07/02/2024
Biglaw Partner Gets Real About Mentorship with Jane Arnold - Episode 172
Dive into the latest episode of The Jabob Podcast and special guest Jane Arnold, partner at Polsinelli. Discover Jane’s unconventional path to law and her insights on mentoring, flexible work hours, and the future of diversity in Big Law. Listen for inspiring advice and a peek into the evolving legal landscape. Highlights Jane Arnold’s career path and flexibility in plans. Working in DC vs. District Offices. Mentorship and its impact on career growth. Collaborative approach and the benefits of in-person vs. virtual meetings. Strategies for effective feedback in a law firm. The “team concept” and promoting diversity. Advice for first-year associates: curiosity, precision, and hard work. Overcoming biases and promoting women in Big Law. Flexible working hours and managing work-life balance. Future of diversity in the workplace and AI disruption. Episode Resources Episode Sponsored By Subscribe, Share and Review To get the next episode subscribe with your favorite podcast player.
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The Journey From Incarceration To Law Student And Beyond with Jonas Caballero - Episode 171
06/28/2024
The Journey From Incarceration To Law Student And Beyond with Jonas Caballero - Episode 171
Dive into an inspiring episode as Kathryn Rubino hosts Albany law student Jonas Caballero. Discover Jonas’s incredible journey from protesting the Iraq War to overcoming incarceration and addiction, now excelling in law school and fighting for civil rights. A must-listen for a story of resilience and advocacy. Highlights Reporting on human rights in the West Bank. Struggle with PTSD leading to incarceration. Roadblocks faced in re-entry post-incarceration. Rejection from multiple law schools due to criminal history. Persistence and honesty leading to law school acceptance. Overcoming 1L challenges as a non-traditional student. Continuous self-reminder of mission for civil rights. Role in Student Bar Association advocating for formerly incarcerated. Positive reception and support from law school faculty. Importance of amplifying voices of formerly incarcerated students. Law school environment fostering change and acceptance. Interning with the Abolitionist Law Center. Focus on international law and prisoner rights. Need for diversion programs over incarceration. Favorite law school experience: supportive faculty. Episode Resources Class Action Challenges Denial from Prison Early Release Programs on Basis of Disability: Prison Rape Elimination Act at 20 – Next Steps (Speech on Capitol Hill) Sexually Assaulted In A NYC Jail? Don't Hold Your Breath For A Timely Investigation Don't Lock Me Up, Help Me Clean Up (NY Daily News) NYC Inmates Call 311 To Report Mistreatment, But Is Anyone Listening? Caballero ’25 Speaks to National Audience on Prison Reform Episode Sponsored By Subscribe, Share and Review To get the next episode subscribe with your favorite podcast player.
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Making The Journey From Biglaw To In-House with Catherine Dawson - Episode 170
04/12/2024
Making The Journey From Biglaw To In-House with Catherine Dawson - Episode 170
In this episode, Kathryn interviews Catherine Dawson, General Counsel at Affinipay, discusses her career transition from big law to in-house counsel, emphasizing her interest in technology. She also talks about the benefits of using AI in legal practice, such as task automation and increased efficiency. Dawson recounts her experience of working part-time while starting a family, emphasizing the possibility of work-life balance in law. She provides advice to parents on navigating their careers; suggesting reevaluation and adaptation based on changing situations. Highlights Insights about law school, career path, and working in an in-house role Entering a legal career in the technology space and challenging issues with AI Transitioning from Biglaw to in-house and understanding roles within a company The potential of AI for lawyers and how it can help save time and do more meaningful work Advice on prioritizing different aspects of life at different stages and making choices as per personal needs How being full-time in-house differs from being full-time at a big law and how it was more feasible while her kids were in elementary school How to reevaluate life stages and job demands as children grow older Episode Resources Episode Sponsored By Subscribe, Share and Review To get the next episode subscribe with your favorite podcast player.
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Sexism And Harassment In Biglaw Are Nothing New with Erin Gordon - Episode 169
04/05/2024
Sexism And Harassment In Biglaw Are Nothing New with Erin Gordon - Episode 169
In this episode, Kathryn interviews Erin Gordon, author of "Look What You Made Me Do", a memoir exposing a toxic culture in a prominent law firm. Erin shares her experience of continuous micro-harassments, personal defamation, and inadequate work allocation, leading to extreme stress and impeding her professional growth. Despite having a strong legal case against the firm, practical difficulties meant she had to endure the environment with minimal improvement. Highlights Insights on the pressure to stay in big law firms despite negative experiences The turning point when she consulted employment lawyers who advised her to leave the firm The long-term impact on her career, including self-esteem issues, lack of professional growth, and financial loss Erin's realization that she wasn't a bad lawyer, but rather a victim of a system that prioritizes loyalty over individual experiences Episode Resources Episode Sponsored By Subscribe, Share and Review To get the next episode subscribe with your favorite podcast player.
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The Path To In-House with Dina Segal - Episode 168
03/29/2024
The Path To In-House with Dina Segal - Episode 168
In this episode, Kathryn interviews Dina Segal, the Chief Legal Officer at Gusto, and discusses her personal and professional journey including her transition from a big law firm to an in-house counsel position and her experiences as a working mother. She speaks about the Lexis Plus platform's innovative Judicial Brief Analysis tool and highlights the importance of understanding the business, building trust, and creating impactful solutions. Dina, a board member of the SunLaw Group, which supports women in-house counsel, also talks about the challenges faced by women in the legal profession. Dina emphasizes work-life balance and advises against measuring balance on a day-to-day basis. She promotes mental health awareness in the legal industry and encourages self-forgiveness on tough days. Highlights Dina’s background and why she decided to attend law school, and her early interest in advocacy Her pathway to in-house law and the importance of understanding the business you're in when working in-house Career progression in-house and the challenges and milestones for those seeking an in-house career Dina’s experience of transitioning the SunLaw Group's activities digitally during the COVID-19 pandemic The importance of being present wherever you are, whether it's at work or with family and suggests viewing balance over longer time periods The lasting impact of small but meaningful moments with children Advice to aspiring lawyers and the importance of identifying their fundamental driver or passion Significance of keeping the larger picture in mind during challenging periods Episode Resources Episode Sponsored By Subscribe, Share and Review To get the next episode subscribe with your favorite podcast player.
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A Work Partnership Makes All The Difference with Cara Bain and Allison Rosner - Episode 167
03/22/2024
A Work Partnership Makes All The Difference with Cara Bain and Allison Rosner - Episode 167
In this episode, directors Cara Bain and Allison Rosner from Major Lindsay in Africa discussed the trajectory of their legal careers and the importance of workplace partnerships. While detailing their unique career paths, they stressed the benefits of diverse backgrounds and perspectives in enhancing team performance. They encouraged listeners to be receptive to diverse opportunities, stay proactive, and be open-minded in their careers. Highlights Allison discusses her atypical path to the legal industry. She shares how her curiosity about the private equity industry led her to join it and ultimately work as a Chief of Staff to the General Counsel in a Legal Department. Allison talks about forming relationships with candidates early on in their careers and guiding them as their career progresses. Challenges in the legal industry are discussed, such as the tension between companies and staff over remote work and the internal pay inequities due to the vast increase in compensation over the last five years. Allison gives tips on how to get up the nerve to negotiate during a job transition, encouraging people to get out of their comfort zone and seek support from mentors or cheerleaders. Discussion on the role of mentorship and peer support in retaining talent within the legal profession. The importance of considering every opportunity and starting the job hunt before feeling ready is emphasized. Episode Resources Episode Sponsored By Subscribe, Share and Review To get the next episode subscribe with your favorite podcast player.
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How To Go From Just A Lawyer To A Rainmaker with Sejal Patel - Episode 166
02/23/2024
How To Go From Just A Lawyer To A Rainmaker with Sejal Patel - Episode 166
In this episode, Kathryn interviewed Sejal Patel from Sage Ivy Consulting. Sejal traces her unique career from law to consulting, emphasizing that law schools should better guide students about alternative legal careers and business development. She suggests young lawyers maintain their professional relationships from law school, cultivate new ones through LinkedIn and conferences, and develop friendships with clients. Together with Kathryn, they stress the importance of early start in professional networking and continuous learning for a successful career. Highlights Navigating the paths after law school and confronting the realities of alternative legal careers Encouraging business development as a part of lifestyle, exploring hobbies and fun activities with potential clients Why you should start early with business development, ideally during law school years How to develop networks and business for those who don't have those kinds of connections from diverse backgrounds The importance of turning clients into friends for gaining inside knowledge and sustaining long-term relationships The need to attend bar association conferences and events for networking opportunities The importance of early business development network building Episode Resources Episode Sponsored By Subscribe, Share and Review To get the next episode subscribe with your favorite podcast player.
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Law Firm Managing Partner Shares Her Journey To The Top with Frieda Garcia - Episode 165
02/16/2024
Law Firm Managing Partner Shares Her Journey To The Top with Frieda Garcia - Episode 165
Kathryn interviewed Frieda Garcia, a managing partner at BAL. Frieda shares her journey to becoming an immigration lawyer, primarily influenced by her family's legal immigration issues. Although the field is challenging due to its complexity and politicized nature, it is also rewarding, particularly in cases where she's assisted scientists and nurses. Frieda commends her firm's intentional diversity efforts and credits this to her rise as a Latina woman. Toward the end of the episode, she reflects on the unpredictable nature of immigration law, emphasizing resilience and empathy as essential attributes. She offers advice to aspiring lawyers, encouraging resilience, forming strong relationships, treating others with kindness, and prioritizing self-care. Highlights Frieda Garcia and her motive behind pursuing law Her first experience with immigration law The intricacies of looking at immigration law from the perspective of employers The start of her passion for immigration law BAL's recognition as the most diverse law firm The importance of adaptability and resilience in dealing with the unpredictability of her work in immigration law How young professionals in law should persevere towards their goals, make and learn from mistakes, and forge strong relationships Value of respectfulness and self-care in the demanding field of law and leadership How aspiring law professionals should continuously work towards their goals despite the obstacles Episode Resources Link to Frieda’s bio: Frieda video: BAL Insights page: https://www.bal.com/insights/ Episode Sponsored By Subscribe, Share and Review To get the next episode subscribe with your favorite podcast player.
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Lawyers Need To Invest In Professional Development with Elise Holtzman - Episode 164
02/09/2024
Lawyers Need To Invest In Professional Development with Elise Holtzman - Episode 164
Kathryn interviewed Elise Holtzman, President of The Lawyer’s Edge, who shares her journey from pre-med to law and discusses challenges faced by lawyers. She highlights the pressure being overwhelming leading to visible stress, but advises breaking down goals into smaller achievable tasks. Elise also points out that self-doubts often block individuals from expressing their needs or setting boundaries, and stresses the need to ignore such doubts as they are not based on reality. She encourages lawyers to seek help when stuck and to realize that progress requires new skills and habits, even if changing these seems hard. Highlights Why Elise decided to move from medical school to law school The idea of conducting "mini experiments” and trying a few new things like learning to delegate more or showing up with solutions rather than just problems. Law firms' responsibility to communicate their expectations upfront to their associates and to give them a clear roadmap for professional development Ways individuals can develop a macro perspective on their legal career while dealing with daily tasks, such as finding quiet time to reflect or discussing with a friend Spending time with like-minded individuals who can provide motivation and support in aspiring career advancements The challenges of being stuck in a rut in the legal field and suggests making small changes to gradually improve the situation The importance of pacing oneself and not trying to make dramatic changes all at once The mental roadblocks or "gremlins" that prevent people from making much-needed changes in their careers Episode Resources Episode Sponsored By Subscribe, Share and Review To get the next episode subscribe with your favorite podcast player.
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Decision Fatigue Might Be Hurting The Quality Of Your Work with Susan Myres - Episode 163
02/02/2024
Decision Fatigue Might Be Hurting The Quality Of Your Work with Susan Myres - Episode 163
Kathryn interviewed Susan Myres, a Managing Partner of Myres & Associates PLLC, who discusses the prevalence of “decision fatigue” in the legal industry. She suggests lawyers take regular breaks and maintain a work-life balance to counter fatigue and stress. She emphasizes the components of self-care and health in a lawyer’s responsibility to their clients. Susan also highlights the lack of effective tools to manage this ongoing stress within the profession. Arguing for the importance of being adequately prepared for cases and meetings, she recounts an experience where her unpreparedness negatively impacted a client. She views these scenarios as learning opportunities, warning that, without proper management, decision fatigue can lead to unsustainable legal careers. Lastly, Susan advocates for the development of effective tools to aid in managing decision fatigue and ensuring continued quality in legal service. Highlights What led Susan Myers to specialize in matrimonial and family law Why the practice of family law interesting for her Dealing with the intensity of family law cases The notion of decision fatigue The Harvard Business Review issue "How to Make Decisions Amid Chaos" Managing stress and emotions amidst decision fatigue The importance of delegation and taking breaks for overall well-being The signs of approaching burnout in law practice The concept of decision fatigue and the importance of checklists in managing tasks efficiently Importance of self-awareness in managing workloads and stress in the legal profession Why young lawyers who feel enormous pressure to do it all The need to mentor and support them Episode Resources Episode Sponsored By Subscribe, Share and Review To get the next episode subscribe with your favorite podcast player.
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The Fight For Sane Gun Regulation Continues At The Supreme Court with Doug Letter and Shira Feldman - Episode 162
01/26/2024
The Fight For Sane Gun Regulation Continues At The Supreme Court with Doug Letter and Shira Feldman - Episode 162
Kathryn Introduces guests Douglas Letter and Shira Feldman from Brady United, an organization focused on reducing gun violence. They discuss their driving factors for practicing law, touch on their work, and explore specific gun laws, including the case of United States vs Rahimi, relevant to domestic violence prevention. Shira outlines the current state of gun laws post-Bruin decision while Doug shares optimism about the Supreme Court's potential future pro-safety rulings. Highlights Doug and Shira’s work at Brady, which involves legal advocacy and representation for gun violence victims The optimistic outlook after the oral arguments in the "US vs Rahimi" case State regulations on assault weapons and high capacity magazines The role states play in regulating gun laws and the optimism that these measures will be upheld by the Supreme Court in the future The significance and value of their work at Brady Their initiatives outside of litigation, particularly working with Hollywood, to increase awareness and bring about a cultural shift on gun safety. Shira and Doug’s work at the broader organization of Brady and their important incremental changes. Episode Resources Episode Sponsored By Subscribe, Share and Review To get the next episode subscribe with your favorite podcast player.
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Civil Rights Are About More Than Liberation with Dylan Penningroth - Episode 161
01/05/2024
Civil Rights Are About More Than Liberation with Dylan Penningroth - Episode 161
Kathryn interviewed Dylan Penningroth to discuss the intersections of Black history, law, and the civil rights movement. Penningroth, author of "Before the Movement: the Hidden History of Black Civil Rights", stresses the importance of viewing the Black community as a diverse group with various perspectives, and using the law as both an instrument of oppression and of change. He speaks on his research challenges and the impacts of corporate law on Black history. Highlights The hidden history of Black Civil Rights The significance of contextual understanding of civil rights that goes beyond racial discrimination The importance of taking a focused approach to understand the Civil Rights movement Marriage, divorce, and inheritance in the lives of Black people The reasons why stories involving Black people sometimes get "lost" Black people using law as a tool in their daily lives The tension between law as both a source of oppression and a tool for liberation Ponders whether the law a strategy is worth pursuing for Black people Shows mixed opinions about the law as a tool of oppression and also a tool of liberation Episode Resources Episode Sponsored By Subscribe, Share and Review To get the next episode subscribe with your favorite podcast player.
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