The Advocate Next Door

Zahid Omarzai, Executive Director of the Afghanistan Center for Dispute Resolution, is an Afghan attorney who relocated to the U.S. in 2023 to pursue an LLM at the University of Pittsburgh School of Law. He shares his background that led him to leave Afghanistan and describes his work in enhancing Afghanistan's arbitration system. He shares his experiences competing in moot court competitions, working with various legal and consulting firms in the U.S., and his reflections on cultural differences in dispute resolution. Zahid emphasizes the importance of understanding Afghan culture and encourages listeners to learn more about Afghanistan. The discussion also touches on the significance of taking care of one's soul and the personal growth Zahid experienced through his journey.STORY00:00 Soundcheck00:50 Greetings01:41 Zahid's Journey to the US02:05 Moot Court Competition02:40 Legal Background and Education03:43 Challenges and Opportunities in Afghanistan05:55 Establishing Arbitration in Afghanistan12:26 Professional Life in the US13:29 Cultural Perspectives on Dispute Resolution24:13 Personal Interests and Hobbies28:35 Final ThoughtsBIOGRAPHYZahid Omarzai is the Executive Director of the Afghanistan Center for Commercial Dispute Resolution (ACDR) and a licensed attorney dedicated to strengthening arbitration and alternative dispute resolution in Afghanistan. With a background in corporate and commercial law, he brings extensive experience in financial transactions, legal reform, and practical dispute-resolution strategies. A passionate advocate for legal education, Zahid has published on arbitration in Afghanistan, represented his country in the prestigious Vis Moot, and continues to mentor future practitioners as Afghanistan’s Vis Moot Country Manager.LINKSLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zahid-omarzai-aa80a03a/Interview from Kakar Advocates: https://kakaradvocates.com/content/Spotlights/interview-with-zahid-omarzai-executive-director-of-the-afghanistan-center-for-dispute-resolution

Anna D. Aviles-Alfaro discusses her career journey which started as a mom right out of high school finding herself working as a legal secretary for a world-renowned international arbitration arbitrator. The support of those around her encouraged her to get her college degree and pursue a rewarding career as a paralegal first starting at the World Bank's ICSID institution and later in the private sector. Anna also shares her tips on work-life balance and how legal teams can work best with each other.*Anna was working at Dechert LLP at the time of this recording.HIGHLIGHTS:00:30 Introduction and Background01:50 Early Career at Pan Am03:59 Starting as a Legal Secretary05:23 Transition to Larger Law Firms07:44 Back to a Path towards Higher Education10:11 Balancing Work and Education21:55 Working at ICSID at The World Bank31:16 Career Advice for Aspiring Legal Professionals36:28 Managing Stress and Work-Life Balance40:58 Advice for New ParalegalsBIOGRAPHY:Anna D. Aviles-Alfaro, Lead Arbitration Paralegal at Womble Bond Dickinson (US) LLPAnna started as a legal secretary and found herself into the world of International Arbitration. She later transitioned as a paralegal at the World Bank's International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID) which is an institution for International Investment Arbitration Disputes. After a few years, she transitioned to the private sector where she is currently a leader in the paralegal sector for international disputes.LINKS:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annaavilesalfaro/

Kiran Gore, a distinguished international arbitration counsel and arbitrator with a versatile background. Kiran shares her unique journey from fashion design to law, detailing how her interest in trademarks and intellectual property in the fashion industry led her to pursue a career in law. She got her start working at Michael Kors pursuing her passion for fashion. She discusses her experiences in big law firms, including DLA Piper and Three Crowns, transitioning to solo practice, and the challenges and rewards of balancing a dynamic career with family life. Kiran also emphasizes the importance of networking, continuous learning, and adapting to technological advancements. We highlight her extensive contributions, varied roles, and mentoring work with students at George Washington University.Kiran Gore, a distinguished international arbitration counsel and arbitrator, shares her remarkable journey from fashion design to the world of law. Discover how her early passion for fashion and intellectual property at Michael Kors sparked a career in trademarks and legal strategy. Kiran walks us through her experiences at major law firms like DLA Piper and Three Crowns, her transition to solo practice, and the challenges—and rewards—of balancing a dynamic career with family life. Along the way, she reflects on the power of networking, lifelong learning, and staying ahead in a rapidly evolving legal landscape. Plus, we dive into her mentoring work with students at George Washington University and her contributions to shaping the next generation of legal professionals.STORY00:00 Sound check01:00 Early Career02:15 Transition to Law05:51 Challenges and Opportunities in Big Law13:47 Starting a Solo Practice18:04 Fashion and Arbitration20:25 Meeting the Students20:55 The GW Community and Public Service21:44 Career Advice for Aspiring Lawyers31:00 The Importance of Networking32:50 Technology in Legal Practice38:55 Women in International Arbitration41:26 Relaxation41:58 Final ThoughtsBIOGRAPHYKiran Nasir Gore is an arbitrator, dispute resolution consultant, and counsel with nearly fifteen years of experience advising governments, corporations, institutions, and individuals on public and private international law, international development, foreign investment strategies, international dispute resolution, and legal investigation and compliance efforts. Ms. Gore advocates before U.S. courts, ad hoc arbitration panels, commercial and investment tribunals, and investigative authorities. She specializes in high value bet-the-company disputes and brings a practical and business-oriented perspective to the table. Ms. Gore also supports clients with strategic advice on international investments, international treaty law, conflict of laws, and legislative reform. She developed her legal acumen and advocacy skills at large and small law firms in New York and Washington, DC, and recently launched her independent law practice. LINKSGW University Law School Profile: https://www.law.gwu.edu/kiran-n-goreKluwer Arbitration Blog: https://legalblogs.wolterskluwer.com/arbitration-blog/author/kiran-nasir-gore/Substack: https://knglaw.substack.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kiran-n-gore/

Abdullah Wasel, a distinguished figure in law and diplomacy, discusses his global upbringing, beginning in Qatar observing its transformation into a modern metropolis. Moving to Canada for boarding school, he pursued a diverse education eventually leading him to law school in Minnesota. Abdullah talks about his near signing with Disney as a child actor and transitioning to a career in law inspired by his family's legacy in the legal domain. He has held significant roles, including working with the UAE Supreme Court and running a family law practice. He also shares his involvement in setting up the Jordan International Arbitration Center (JIAC) and his dynamic approach to integrating AI in legal proceedings. He elaborates on his passion for space law, the drafting of the Washington Compact for commercial space operations, and the broader implications of expanding human activity into space. He emphasizes the importance of pursuing one's passions, overcoming criticism, and daring to achieve the impossible.STORYGrowing Up in QatarEarly Life and Family BackgroundEducation Journey: From Qatar to CanadaCollege Life and American FootballLaw School and ADR FocusFirst Case and Early Career ChallengesFounding the Jordan International Arbitration CenterArtificial Intelligence in ArbitrationPractical Applications of AIAI Regulation and Ethical ConcernsBuilding an Arbitration CenterIntroduction to Space LawPrivate Citizens vs Astronauts in SpaceDispute Resolution in SpaceWhy Space Matters for EveryonePersonal Interest in Space TravelSpace in Film: Interstellar and BeyondGetting Into the Space IndustryFinal Advice for Young ProfessionalsBIOGRAPHYAbdulla is an international arbitration specialist with extensive experience representing high-net-worth investors and navigating complex disputes across multiple industries and jurisdictions. He has appeared before leading arbitral tribunals and handled the enforcement and set-aside of arbitral awards in various courts. His work includes serving as counsel in high-stakes investment arbitration cases in the Middle East, particularly involving bilateral investment treaties and sovereign states.In addition to his arbitration practice, Abdulla is a registered lobbyist in Washington, D.C., where he has appeared before the U.S. Congress to discuss commercial space policy. He is among the few expert consultants in the emerging space industry, maintaining close relationships with both governmental and commercial actors. As a key author of The Washington Compact—an international treaty under The Hague Institute for Global Justice that sets standards for the commercial space sector—he has helped establish norms of conduct now endorsed by more than 130 global signatories.Abdulla serves as Secretary-General of the Jordan International Arbitration Centre (JIAC) and Chief of Staff at The Hague Institute for Global Justice. His work reflects a rare combination of legal expertise, diplomatic engagement, and leadership in both terrestrial and outer-space dispute resolution.LINKSWasel Wasel: https://waselandwasel.com/abdulla-abuwasel/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abdullawasel/

Rafael Boza, Special Counsel at Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP, and Co-Editor in Chief of the ITA in Review (Journal for the Institute for Transnational Arbitration) shares his journey from his early days in Peru to his legal career in the U.S., detailing his experience in international arbitration and the evolution of his legal focus. He discusses his educational background, including law degrees from the University of Lima and KU Leuven in Belgium, and offers advice for law students and young professionals on networking, specializing, and balancing career and personal life. The conversation also touches upon the integration of technology in legal practice and the importance of attending conferences for professional development.STORY00:00 Setting the Scene00:58 Special Guest02:07 Rafael Boza's Background and Career Journey03:37 Insights into International Arbitration07:28 Advice for Aspiring Legal Professionals12:35 Balancing Professional and Personal Life13:29 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsBIOGRAPHYRafael T. Boza focuses his practice on all aspects of international arbitration, dispute resolution and litigation. He also practices in transactions and corporate matters.Rafael has over 20 years of experience advising local and multinational companies, litigating and arbitrating. His experience includes providing legal services in the United States and abroad, utilizing his comprehensive legal knowledge of multiple jurisdictions, including the United States, Latin America and Europe.He is a litigator in arbitrations, domestic and international, and in Texas and federal courts in a variety of matters. He participates in complex, high-stakes, ICC, ICSID, LCIA and other international arbitration cases. He has also arbitrated cases (as arbitrator) since 2003 in a variety of economic sectors, including commercial, construction, investment and intellectual property disputes in mostly ad hoc cases. Rafael possesses a deep understanding of international arbitration law and procedural rules and is skilled in handling all stages of the arbitration process, from drafting arbitration agreements and initiating proceedings, to conducting hearings and enforcing arbitral awards.LINKSLaw Firm Profile: https://www.pillsburylaw.com/en/lawyers/rafael-boza.htmlLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rafaelboza/ITA in Review Journal: https://itainreview.org/

We interview Lucinda Low, a key speaker at the 37th ITA Workshop and Annual Conference in Houston, Texas. Lucinda shares her professional journey, starting from her early experiences as an exchange student in Brazil to her career in international law and arbitration. She discusses the diverse interactions within the arbitration community, her transition from big law firms to starting a venture with Meg Kinnear, and her extensive accolades in the field. Lucinda also highlights the role of technology and AI in modern arbitration and offers advice to young professionals seeking to enter the field. The conversation touches on personal anecdotes, including her love for music and how it helps her unwind.STORY00:00 Sound check03:39 Lucinda's Journey: From Law School to International Arbitration08:03 Early Career and Key Experiences11:41 Launching a New Venture with Meg13:44 Challenges and Rewards of Starting a Business14:40 Reinventing Careers in Law23:19 The Role of Technology in ArbitrationBIOGRAPHYLucinda has more than 40 years of international legal practice experience in a wide variety of industries and geographies. Her arbitration experience includes both investor-state and commercial disputes. She has served as counsel, expert and arbitrator. She has served as presiding arbitrator in a number of cases as well as a party-appointed arbitrator. As a member of LKDR, she is focused on independent adjudicative and advisory services. Lucinda chairs of the Board of Directors of the Coalition for Integrity (formerly known as Transparency International – USA), and also a member of the Secretary of State’s Advisory Committee on International Law. She is a former president of the American Society of International Law and a former chair of the ABA Section of International Law. In 2017 she was appointed by the president of the World Bank to serve six-year term on the International Centre for Settlement of Investments Disputes (ICSID) Panel of Arbitrators, as one of ten lawyers named to the panel and the only one from the United States. She is a member of the ICC’s Commission on Arbitration and ADR. Lucinda speaks and works in Portuguese, Spanish and French as well as English.LINKSLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucinda-low-40429711/Website: https://lkdr.global/lucinda/#lucinda-story

We meet Lena Raxter, writer, international law enthusiast, and winner of the winner of the 2025 Young ITA Writing Competition, during the 37th ITA Annual Conference and Workshop.Lena shares her journey from studying veterinary science to obtaining JDs in Canada and the U.S. and an award-winning legal scholar. She discusses her paper on the Crimea cases dealing with the 2014 annexation by Russia, which has sparked scholarly debate on territorial jurisdiction in international law.Lena recounts her diverse educational background, international experiences, and her path to law through American University. She emphasizes the importance of passion in a law career and shares insights from her multicultural perspective, as well as her love for animals.STORY00:00 Sound Check00:18 Sleep Habits and Excel Skills01:29 Winning the Writing Contest03:09 The Crimea Cases and Territorial Jurisdiction05:13 Journey to International Arbitration05:25 From Vet Dreams to Law School13:38 Navigating Law School and Career Advice18:11 Living Abroad and Cultural Insights21:28 Pets and Personal Life23:04 ConclusionBIOGRAPHYLena Raxter is a dual-qualified lawyer (District of Columbia, USA; Ontario, Canada) and an international dispute specialist who earned an Advanced LL.M. in International Dispute Settlement and Arbitration from Leiden University (cum laude) and J.D. degrees from American University WCL and the University of Ottawa. She currently serves as Legal Advisor to ILC Member Claudio Grossman and as an Attorney-Advisor in the Office of the General Counsel at the U.S. International Trade Commission, after internships and roles at the ILC, ICSID, the Inter-American Court of Human Rights, the UN Office of Legal Affairs, and related clinics. Lena pairs strong academic credentials with practical experience in investor-state and public international law.LINKSLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lenaraxter/Paper: "Responsibility After Succession: The Work of the International Law Commission and its Application for Seeking Redress after the Breach of Investor-State Agreements" https://itainreview.org/articles/2025/Vol7/Issue2/jurisdiction-ratione-loci-the-effect-of-the-crimea-cases-on-analyzing-territorial-jurisdiction-in-situations-of-occupation-and-annexation.htmlCIArb Winner Announcement: https://www.ciarbnab.com/lena-raxter-wins-second-annual-writing-competition/

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Darya Shirokova (former Assistant Director for the Institute for Transnational Arbitration (ITA), currently Founder of Houston Place of Arbitration) during the ITA Annual Conference and Workshop.She discusses her journey in international arbitration and shares her educational background, having studied in Russia, France, and the UK, and her professional experiences at the ICC in Paris and arbitration cases involving large energy firms. She talks about her Ph.D research, her upcoming book "The Fiction of 'State Contract' in the Energy Industry: The Empirical Gap between the Intentions of the Parties and the Interpretation of Contracts by Arbitral Tribunals", and the challenges of writing it.Dr. Shirokova also opens up about the difficulty of passing the California bar exam and her future plans to develop Houston as a hub for arbitration.STORY00:00 Introduction00:40 Meet Dr. Darya Shirokova01:46 Journey into Law and Arbitration02:17 Educational Background and Career Path04:27 The Importance of Language in Law05:38 Writing and Publishing a Book08:53 Challenges and Perseverance13:06 Future Projects and Advice14:04 Personal Life and Hobbies14:45 Final ThoughtsBIOGRAPHYDr. Darya Shirokova is a triple-qualified lawyer (U.S. – California, France, and the Russian Federation) specializing in energy contracts and international arbitration, both commercial and investment. As part of a Ph.D. focused on the intersection of law and energy, Dr. Shirokova analyzed over 500 energy contracts concluded between states and private entities. Before pursuing doctoral research, she served at the ICC International Court of Arbitration in Paris, managing hundreds of complex arbitration cases across diverse sectors, including intellectual property and large-scale energy disputes exceeding USD 10 billion.LINKSLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-darya-shirokova-19a24317/Book "The Fiction of State Contract in the Energy Industry" available at: https://law-store.wolterskluwer.com/s/product/the-fiction-of-state-contract-in-the-energy-industry-the-empirical/01tPg00000D8Lz9IAFHouston Place of Arbitration: https://www.linkedin.com/company/houston-place-of-arbitration/

We get a live look at Washington Arbitration Week and attend "Mentorship on International Arbitration in the Washington, D.C. Legal Community: How to Organically Promote an Environment of Mentorship?"Moderated by Jessica Killeen, paneled by Eleanor Erney, Meg Kinnear, Michael Nolan, Cansu Aydin.

El Dr. Björn Arp, profesor y director adjunto del Centro de Arbitraje Comercial Internacional de American University Washington College, discute la publicación de su nuevo libro 'Grandes Casos del Arbitraje Comercial Internacional'. El Dr. Arp cuenta su experiencia personal y profesional, su trayectoria desde Alemania a España y luego a Washington D.C., y su labor académica y práctica en el campo del arbitraje internacional. Explica la importancia del arbitraje como método de resolución de disputas con dimensión transnacional y los desafíos en la enseñanza y prácticas legales en español. Compartiendo historias desde la pandemia, menciona cómo surgió la idea de su libro, su proceso de traducción de casos relevantes y su objetivo de ofrecer recursos útiles para abogados, árbitros y jueces. El Dr. Arp también destaca la misión del Instituto de Arbitraje Internacional y subraya la importancia de una educación jurídica práctica y bien informada para resolver disputas comerciales internacionales eficientemente.HIGHLIGHTS00:00 Sound Check00:32 Introduction to the Guest and Topic02:43 Understanding International Arbitration03:30 Promoting the New Book11:41 The Journey and Career of Bjorn Arp16:30 Insights on Teaching and Practicing Law21:28 The Summer Institute on International Arbitration27:33 Final Thoughts and MessagesBIOGRAPHYEl Dr. Björn Arp es miembro y profesor adjunto del Centro de Arbitraje Comercial Internacional de la Facultad de Derecho de la American University Washington College of Law Center. Imparte clases de Arbitraje Comercial Internacional en el Programa de Certificado en línea sobre Arbitraje Comercial Internacional, así como otros cursos. Es socio de Aparicio, Arp & Associates LLC, en Washington, D.C., donde representa a partes en casos internacionales de protección de inversiones y derechos humanos. El Dr. Arp forma parte de la Lista de Expertos del Mecanismo Independiente de Consulta e Investigación del Banco Interamericano de Desarrollo.De 2000 a 2010, impartió docencia sobre Derecho Internacional Público, Derecho de la Unión Europea y Arbitraje de Inversiones en la Universidad de Alcalá, Madrid. En 2007, Arp fue investigador visitante en la Facultad de Derecho de Harvard. Sus publicaciones e investigaciones se han centrado en la protección internacional de las inversiones y los derechos humanos.Björn Arp es licenciado en Derecho por la Universidad de Alicante y doctor en Derecho Internacional por la Universidad de Alcalá, Madrid y una Maestría en Derecho (LL.M.) en Estudios Jurídicos Internacionales de la Facultad de Derecho de American University Washington College of Law Center. Está habilitado para ejercer en Nueva York y es miembro de lAmerican Society of International Law y el Inter-American Bar Association.LINKSLibro "Grandes Casos del Arbitraje Comercial Internacional": https://palestraeuropa.es/product/grandes-casos-del-arbitraje-comercial-internacional/LinkedIn; https://www.linkedin.com/in/bjorn-arp/ American University Professor: https://www.american.edu/wcl/faculty/arp.cfm

Hernando Otero, abogado colombiano especializado en arbitraje internacional, nos abre una ventana a su trayectoria y a los retos del oficio. En la conversación comparte cómo inició en el arbitraje a partir de oportunidades concretas y circunstancias económicas, y cómo evolucionó de su experiencia en el sector público en Colombia hacia una carrera consolidada en el ámbito privado en Estados Unidos. Habla sobre su estilo de enseñanza, centrado en transmitir conocimientos de manera clara y memorable, y destaca la importancia de la persistencia, la creación de oportunidades y el valor del networking en esta disciplina. Además, reflexiona sobre el papel de la mediación, sus aprendizajes como árbitro en paneles internacionales y brinda consejos prácticos para quienes desean abrirse camino en este campo. La entrevista cierra con una invitación a valorar la buena enseñanza y las estrategias efectivas como pilares para el éxito en el arbitraje.HIGHLIGHTS00:00 Bienvenida02:15 El Camino hacia el Arbitraje Internacional05:47 Desafíos y Oportunidades en la Carrera13:07 La Importancia del Networking14:15 Consejos para Aspirantes a Árbitros25:41 Dinámicas entre Árbitros29:52 El Futuro de la Mediación45:34 ConclusiónBIOGRAFÍA Hernando Otero es un abogado especializado en arbitraje y mediación internacional con amplia experiencia como apoderado y árbitro en controversias bajo el Convenio CIADI, el Mecanismo Complementario del CIADI y las Reglas de Arbitraje de la CNUDMI, en casos relacionados con tratados bilaterales y multilaterales de inversión, así como en acuerdos comerciales. Ha actuado como árbitro en el Centro Internacional de Arreglo de Diferencias Relativas a Inversiones (CIADI) del Banco Mundial y ha sido designado por instituciones de renombre como la Cámara de Comercio Internacional (CCI), la Corte de Arbitraje de Londres (LCIA), el Centro de Arbitraje Internacional de Hong Kong (HKIAC) y el Centro de Arbitraje y Conciliación de la Cámara de Comercio de Bogotá, entre otros.Además de su práctica, Hernando es Fellow y profesor en el Centro de Arbitraje Comercial Internacional de la Facultad de Derecho de Washington, donde dirige el curso anual de mediación ofrecido conjuntamente con JAMS. También se desempeña como mediador acreditado ante la Corte Superior del Distrito de Columbia y como Mediador Asociado en MarksADR.Está admitido para ejercer la abogacía en Colombia, Nueva York y el Distrito de Columbia. Obtuvo una Maestría en Derecho Internacional (LL.M.) en la Escuela de Derecho de la Universidad de Nueva York (NYU) y el título de abogado en la Universidad de los Andes en Bogotá, Colombia.LINKSAmerican University Washington College of Law: https://www.american.edu/wcl/faculty/otero.cfmLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hernandootero/

Javier Sarmiento, ex-Ministro de Justicia y del Derecho Encargado, Procurador Delegado para la Defensa de los Derechos Humanos en la Republica de Colombia los visita. Javier debate sobre su rol y sus responsabilidades, como la cooperación con autoridades norteamericanas y la defensa de derechos humanos en territorios apartados en Colombia. También explica el funcionamiento de la Procuraduría en Colombia y cómo ésta opera de manera autónoma e independiente para vigilar a servidores públicos y prevenir actos de corrupción. Sarmiento comparte detalles personales sobre su familia, los retos de su trabajo, y su pasión por la defensa de los derechos humanos, así como su trasfondo profesional y académico. Además, menciona la importancia del derecho a la migración y cómo Colombia es un pionero en proporcionar apoyo a migrantes, especialmente a venezolanos. La conversación también abarca las amenazas y desafíos que enfrenta en su labor, destacando la necesidad de tener pasión y sensibilidad para llevar a cabo este tipo de trabajo.HIGHLIGHTS:00:00 Introducción02:13 El Rol del Procurador Delegado02:43 Desafíos y Viajes en el Trabajo04:00 Familia y Vida Personal06:01 La Procuraduría en Colombia07:32 Migración y Derechos Humanos23:00 Experiencias y Amenazas en el Trabajo27:13 Consejos para Futuros Abogados32:49 Reflexiones FinalesBIOGRAPHY:Javier Augusto Sarmiento Olarte es un abogado colombiano especializado en derechos humanos, política criminal y justicia transicional. Ha ocupado altos cargos en el gobierno, entre ellos Ministro de Justicia, Viceministro de Política Criminal y Justicia Restaurativa, Director General de la Agencia para la Reincorporación y la Normalización (ARN) y Procurador Delegado para la Defensa de los Derechos Humanos, en la Republica de Colombia. A lo largo de su trayectoria, ha liderado políticas públicas sobre desarme, desmovilización, reintegración, política de drogas, reforma penitenciaria y justicia transicional, con énfasis en el fortalecimiento institucional y la protección de los derechos fundamentales en contextos de posconflicto. Además, es un académico activo, conferencista y autor del libro La Proporcionalidad de la Pena en la Justicia Transicional.LINKS:Wikipedia; https://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Javier_SarmientoLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/javier-augusto-sarmiento-olarte-71b938151/?originalSubdomain=co

Mallory Silberman is a prominent figure in the international arbitration field. Silberman shares her journey from a first-year associate to founding her own company, MS Arbitration. She discusses the importance of flexibility in career planning, the value of learning languages, and the evolving landscape of legal training. Topics include her academic background, mentors, the significance of international arbitration, and her passion for training young lawyers. The conversation also touches on personal anecdotes, such as Mallory's unique role as a flower girl at Kelby's wedding, her teaching experience at Georgetown Law, and the critical need for comprehensive training in law firms.HIGHLIGHTS:00:00 Introduction02:09 Mallory's Career Journey03:13 Early Influences and Education05:20 Entering the Legal Profession14:31 Challenges and Mentorship18:00 Practical Skills and Training20:05 Language Skills in International Arbitration22:05 Debunking the Myths of Partnership22:23 The Reality of Being a Partner22:52 The Importance of Asking Questions24:06 Transition to Academia26:06 Introduction to International Arbitration27:30 Investment Arbitration Explained29:05 Challenges in International Arbitration33:15 The Apprenticeship Model in Law37:22 Starting a New Business Venture40:08 The Flower Girl42:19 Personal Anecdotes and ReflectionsBIOGRAPHY:Mallory Silberman is a renowned advocate and professor of international arbitration, recognized by Who’s Who Legal as “one of the best advocates” and “among the world’s most experienced young practitioners of investment arbitration.” Over more than a decade in private practice at Arnold & Porter, she served as counsel in nearly 50 disputes across 17 countries, shaping the field of treaty-based arbitration. Today, Professor Silberman shares her expertise by training students and practitioners worldwide in advocacy, project management, cross-examination, and hearing preparation. A prolific author and speaker, she continues to mentor the next generation of advocates while advancing excellence in international arbitration practice.LINKS:MS Arbitration: https://www.msarbitration.comGeorgetown Law: https://www.law.georgetown.edu/faculty/mallory-b-silberman/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorysilberman/

We all have our own story to tell. Each story is special. Each story inspires.

Meg Kinnear is not only an accomplished arbitrator and lawyer, but also a mother whose story shows the power of perseverance and balance. In this episode, she takes us on her journey from studying law in Montreal, to serving the Canadian government, to becoming the first full-time Secretary General of ICSID at the World Bank. Along the way, she shares personal anecdotes—like once dreaming of becoming a veterinarian—and the challenges of managing a demanding career while raising a family. The conversation explores the evolving world of international arbitration, the importance of building efficient systems, and her bold new step of launching her own arbitration practice with partner Lucinda Lowe. Meg’s reflections on stepping outside of comfort zones, tackling stereotypes, and valuing personal connections offer both inspiration and practical wisdom for anyone navigating their own career path.HIGHLIGHTS: 00:00 Warming Up01:46 Meet the Guest: Meg Kinnear03:39 Meg's Background and Career Beginnings04:32 From Veterinary Aspirations to Law05:27 Early Legal Career in Canada10:32 Government Litigation Experience16:59 Transition to International Arbitration22:36 Joining ICSID (World Bank)23:17 Applying for the Dream Job24:16 Defining the Role of Secretary General24:49 Challenges and Changes at the World Bank26:27 Managing People and Systems27:37 Expanding the Team and Technology28:45 The Importance of ICSID Facilities33:43 Balancing Work and Family35:54 Starting a New Business37:25 Choosing the Right Business Partner40:00 Stereotypes in Arbitration44:28 Innovations in Arbitration46:16 Personal Life and Hobbies48:21 Advice to Younger Self49:24 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsBIOGRAPHY:Meg Kinnear is a distinguished arbitrator and the former Secretary-General of ICSID (2009–2024), where she presided over record-breaking expansion and procedural modernization of the leading institution for investor–state disputes. Prior to that, she served the General Counsel (1999-2006) and then Senior General Counsel (2006-2009) of the Trade Law Bureau of Canada (JLT), and was deeply involved in early NAFTA investment arbitrations and trade negotiations. Now a founding partner of LKDR LLC, Meg provides arbitration, mediation, and fact-finding services, building on decades of leadership in international dispute resolution.LINKS: Website: https://lkdr.global/meg/#meg-storyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meg-kinnear-371643168/

We reflect on a wonderful season of Advocates and hint about what may come next in Season 3.

Shaun Vodde, Senior Vice President of Forensic Technology and Consulting Operations at TransPerfect Legal, shares his fascinating journey from studying engineering at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University to entering the world of digital forensics in the wake of 9/11. He unpacks the intricate world of forensic technology—explaining everything from chain of custody and data artifacts to the evolving challenges of e-discovery. With decades of international experience, Shaun reflects on real-world use cases involving criminal investigations and legal proceedings, emphasizing the ethical responsibility and collaboration required in the field. This insightful conversation also highlights the importance of adaptability, lifelong learning, and problem-solving in navigating the ever-changing landscape of digital forensics.STORY:00:00 Introduction 00:39 Meet the Forensics Expert01:15 Understanding Digital Forensics01:45 Journey into Forensics02:55 The Role of Forensics in Legal Cases05:53 Challenges and Ethics in Forensics08:04 Global Forensics and TransPerfect's Role14:50 The Impact of AI and Technology in Forensics15:40 Streamlining Forensic Processes18:39 Team Dynamics in Digital Forensics18:58 Team Structure and Workflow19:42 Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing23:11 Metadata and Privacy Concerns24:27 Career Path in Forensics27:11 Forensic Specializations29:23 Work-Life Balance in Forensics33:28 Client Interactions and Expectations35:32 Final ThoughtsBIOGRAPHY:Shaun Vodde is the Senior Vice President of Forensic Technology and Consulting Operations at TransPerfect Legal, based in Washington, D.C. With over two decades of global experience in digital forensics, e-discovery, and litigation support, Shaun has led major forensic investigations across six continents for law firms, government agencies, and Fortune 500 companies. His expertise spans from network engineering and incident response to complex server and data storage investigations. Recognized as an expert witness both in the U.S. and internationally, Shaun continues to lead high-impact forensic teams and deliver world-class advisory services around the globe.LINKS:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaun-vodde-3412027/Transperfect: https://www.transperfectlegal.com/services/forensic-technology-consulting

We meet Alexandra Solórzano, a private investigator and CEO of Owl Consultancy Group. We dive into Alexandra's fascinating career tracing illicit activities, corruption, and organized crime. Born in the U.S. but raised in Nicaragua, Alexandra sheds light on her unique upbringing amidst political turmoil, which steered her towards a career in fighting corruption. She discusses her breakthrough with Crowell & Moring LLP, where she transitioned from a practice group coordinator to a specialist in international trade and anti-money laundering. Alexandra also explains the genesis of her business, the nature of her investigative work, and shares intriguing cases and challenges faced in the field. The conversation highlights her methodology, the importance of critical thinking, and her advice for aspiring investigators. She concludes by sharing the story behind her company's name, inspired by her Pomeranian Husky, underscoring her belief in the symbolism of eyes and insightfulness, akin to an owl.STORY:00:00 Introduction02:26 Career Beginnings and Education04:51 First Job and Non-Profit Experience05:46 Entering the World of Investigations07:14 Career Growth and Key Opportunities13:05 Transition to Anti-Money Laundering15:56 Starting Owl Consultancy Group17:21 Starting a Business in Charlottesville19:02 The Role of a Private Investigator19:40 Due Diligence and Background Investigations21:02 Challenges in Criminal Investigations23:50 International Investigations and Networking33:42 The Evolution of Investigative Work36:25 The Story Behind the Owl Name37:41 Conclusion and Podcast PlugBIOGRAPHY:Alexandra Solórzano is the CEO & Founder of Owl Consultancy Group, specializing in deep-dive investigations to detect, prevent, and dismantle illicit activity. With expertise in financial crimes, bribery and corruption investigations, and international trade compliance, she helps clients safeguard against financial and reputational risks. Alexandra conducts comprehensive due diligence, monitors global regulatory developments, and provides strategic insights on economic sanctions and geopolitical risks. Her work extends to assisting clients with internal investigations, government inquiries, and international litigation and arbitration.LINKS:Owl Consultancy Website: https://www.owlconsultancygroup.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chiefowl/Alex's Podcast is "Lurking in the Fog": https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lurking-in-the-fog/id1717701004

Aura Colmanni, expert translator and interpreter, shares her journey into the field, highlighting the rigorous education, cultural awareness, and deep empathy required to excel in translation and interpretation. She breaks down the key differences between simultaneous and consecutive interpreting, the challenges posed by machine translation, and the evolving role of AI in the industry. Listeners will also hear about Aura’s passion for continuous learning, her experiences studying at the Sorbonne, and practical advice for mastering new languages. Plus, she reveals how music not only helps her unwind but also deepens her linguistic skills.STORY:00:00 Introduction00:51 Journey into Translation03:22 Career Beginnings06:13 Challenges and Realities of Translation08:02 The Importance of Research in Translation09:28 Simultaneous vs. Consecutive Interpretation11:58 The Human Element in Translation19:26 The Role of Empathy in Interpretation20:36 Challenges in Court Interpretation22:32 The Nuances of Different Languages28:20 The Impact of AI on Translation34:55 The Joy of CommunicationBIOGRAPHY:Aura Colmanni is a seasoned translator and interpreter with a lifelong passion for language and communication. Aura is currently the “Foreign Languages Specialist”, working as the in-house translators and interpreter at Arnold & Porter Kaye Scholer LLP. Having started in the field at an early age, she has built a career dedicated to bridging linguistic and cultural gaps across industries. With a strong academic foundation, including studies at the Sorbonne in Paris, Aura emphasizes the necessity of mastering multiple languages, understanding cultural nuances, and continuously adapting to industry changes. Her expertise spans high-stakes legal, business, and diplomatic translations, where precision and empathy are paramount.LINKS:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aura-colmanni-0741b19/

Jason Froehlich, Director of Business Development at WeLocalize, discusses the complexities of the language services field, particularly in legal translation and localization. He recounts his career journey from aspiring rock star working as a legal assistant, to law school, and eventually transitioning into business development and e-discovery. The conversation touches on the importance of asking the right questions, the impact of AI and machine translation, and the personal and professional challenges in the field. Jason also shares insights on work-life balance, hobbies, and networking.STORY:00:00 Introduction00:48 From Rock Star Dreams to Language Services03:26 From Law School to Legal Assistant05:25 Transition to E-Discovery and Vendor Management12:08 The Future of Translation: AI vs. Human Expertise13:29 Understanding the Translation Process16:36 Building Trust in Business Development17:18 The Challenges of Legal Translation18:20 Balancing Work and Personal Life20:28 Networking Tips and Strategies26:10 Career Opportunities in Business Development27:06 Common Challenges and SolutionsBIOGRAPHY:Jason Froehlich is a dedicated client service professional with over 15 years of experience in legal and professional services. As Director of Business Development at WeLocalize, he specializes in providing language translation solutions to top law firms and legal departments worldwide. Jason’s expertise lies in strategic planning, managing complex projects, and fostering long-term client relationships to ensure seamless multilingual legal support. His passion for client service drives his commitment to delivering exceptional results, helping legal professionals navigate language barriers in an increasingly globalized industry. Through his work, Jason plays a crucial role in bridging communication gaps and enhancing the efficiency of international legal operations.LINKS:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jfroehlich/WeLocalize: https://www.welocalize.com