I Am The Law

In this episode, Josh Offenharz takes us through his career journey, marked by numerous transitions between law firms, sometimes sooner than he anticipated. From navigating generational differences in firm cultures to managing the evolving dynamics of career progression, client relationships, and work-life balance, Josh shares how his ability to adapt and recognize key opportunities has been integral to his progression. He candidly discusses the challenges that come with firm economics shifting unexpectedly, highlighting what happens when your goals collide with your employer's evolving challenges and priorities. Josh reflects on how stayed attuned to the surrounding opportunities and knew when it was time to move on. Concluding with his most recent transition, he reveals how his security of position at his immediately-prior firm ultimately led him to find a better fit. Josh is a graduate of Arizona State University's Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law.This episode is hosted by Katya Valasek.Mentioned in this episode:Learn more about Rutgers LawLearn more about Vermont LawAccess LawHub today!Learn more about Colorado LawLearn more about Rutgers Law

Paige Sparks is an employee rights lawyer who specializes in discrimination claims. In this episode, Paige talks navigating the EEOC process for aggrieved current and former employees, generating clients through social media, and how she navigates her ADHD, a diagnosis she received a few years into practice. Through informational law videos and transparent looks into her life, Paige has garnered more than two million followers across TikTok and Instagram, which has both clear benefits and drawbacks. She also discusses her approach to caseload and cashflow management--each key for a contingency practice. Paige is a graduate of St. Louis University School of Law.This episode is hosted by Katya Valasek.Mentioned in this episode:Learn more about Colorado LawAccess LawHub today!Learn more about Rutgers LawLearn more about Rutgers LawLearn more about Vermont Law

Starting a nonprofit often sounds like a great idea, but execution requires vision, commitment, and grit. Laurie Robinson Hayden shares how she transitioned from informal networking among peers to establishing an organization that supports professional development for women of color lawyers. Laurie discusses how she built a mission-driven board, decided she was ready to transition from full-time lawyer to full-time CEO, and let go when she could afford to pay staff. She talks about embracing innovation without losing focus, especially in the face of financial incentives. Laurie is a graduate of Indiana University Maurer School of Law.This episode is hosted by Katya Valasek.Mentioned in this episode:Access LawHub today!Learn more about Rutgers LawLearn more about Rutgers LawLearn more about Vermont LawLearn more about Colorado Law

Happy Thanksgiving! What are lawyers thankful for? The answers may surprise you. In this special episode, we share some previously-unreleased clips of recent I Am The Law guests with their answer to everyone's least favorite Thanksgiving question. Hosts Katya Valasek and Kyle McEntee intersperse commentary throughout our lawyer guests talking about giving voice to the voiceless, achieving their dream job, being a part of a team, problem solving, money, working really hard, and much more.Mentioned in this episode:Learn more about Rutgers LawLearn more about Vermont LawLearn more about Rutgers LawLearn more about Colorado LawAccess LawHub today!

As an immigration lawyer, Jennifer Quezada builds trust within local communities that need legal help to bring families together. She works primarily with Spanish-speaking clients in their native language, and uses her own background as an immigrant to offer advice and counsel that creates a sense of security amidst a complex and lengthy legal process. Beyond her legal work, Jennifer discusses marketing, fee transparency, and her firm's strategy to serve additional underserved communities. Although public service is often associated with government roles and non-profits, Jennifer demonstrates that private law firms representing individual clients can also fulfill this mission. Jennifer is a graduate of the William & Mary Law School. This episode is hosted by Kyle McEntee.Mentioned in this episode:Access LawHub today!Learn more about Seattle University School of LawLearn more about Seton HallLearn more about Vermont LawLearn more about Baylor LawLearn more about Blueprint

Big change requires massive action. That's true whether we're talking about Carney Anne Nasser's career path or her work as an animal protection lawyer. She shifted to animal law five years after earning her law license, first as an unpaid intern (while working as a full-time lawyer) and then for several nonprofits that specialize in strategic advocacy and impact litigation.Carney Anne discusses what fueled her efforts to bring about significant legal outcomes. including delivering prosecutors evidence and analysis to take down Joe Exotic, the so-called "Tiger King," for animal trafficking. She's successfully and creatively leveraged diverse legal frameworks, often repurposing laws in unexpected ways to achieve her goals—a strategy that underscores the broader lesson that innovative legal thinking can upend systems from within. Carney Anne is a graduate of Tulane Law School.This episode is hosted by Kyle McEntee.Mentioned in this episode:Access LawHub today!Learn more about Seattle University School of LawLearn more about Seton HallLearn more about BlueprintLearn more about Baylor LawLearn more about Vermont Law

In our 100th episode, hosts Kyle McEntee and Katya Valasek reflect on their legal backgrounds and how their journeys to, through, and after law school shape this podcast's discussions. Kyle talks about his journey, beginning with the founding of Law School Transparency (LST), a nonprofit focused on consumer advocacy, and leading to his role at LSAC. He explores the challenges of enacting meaningful change in the face of opposition, emphasizing how crucial it is for advocates to grasp their audience's needs to be persuasive. Katya recounts how her legal career has evolved along a consistent axis of guiding people to the legal careers they want. She discusses her personal and professional fulfillment in the face of persistent questions about her career choices. Katya is a graduate of Michigan State College of Law and Kyle is a graduate of Vanderbilt Law School.This episode is hosted by Collin Takita.Mentioned in this episode:Learn more about Seton HallLearn more about Seattle University School of LawLearn more about BlueprintAccess LawHub today!Learn more about Baylor LawLearn more about Vermont Law

Lana and Nick Kuchinski have done a lot together, from chemical engineering to law school to getting married. Though the episode features their unique journey as a couple, their insights are valuable for anyone considering or currently navigating law school. The conversation touches on competition, jealousy, factoring family into decision-making, support, and the varied ways individual paths shape legal careers. One partner faced more challenges in the job market, while the other had greater success securing interviews and offers. They share how these experiences affected their relationship, particularly during the job search, and draw comparisons to the dynamics between friends, roommates, and classmates. Lana and Nick are graduates of the University of Colorado Law School.This episode is hosted by Katya Valasek.Mentioned in this episode:Learn more about BlueprintAccess LawHub today!Learn more about Seattle University School of LawLearn more about Seton HallLearn more about Baylor LawLearn more about Vermont Law

Alexia Bedat is a U.K.-trained entertainment lawyer in New York City who predominately represents production companies in content deals, from podcasts to documentaries and a lot in between. With a bird's eye view of the entertainment industry, she's able to provide legal and business advice to forge deals that let the creative process blossom. Through careful listening and strategic questioning, Alexia can rein in clients who could blow up a deal over a misunderstanding. The episode also dives into the challenges of balancing creative integrity with legal clearance, the stories a contract tells, and the rewarding experience of seeing creative projects come to life. Alexia is a graduate of the University of Cambridge and has an LL.M. from Columbia University Law School. This episode is hosted by Kyle McEntee.Mentioned in this episode:Learn more about Baylor LawLearn more about Vermont LawAccess LawHub today!Learn more about BlueprintLearn more about Seton HallLearn more about Seattle University School of Law

Taking on high-profile cases is never easy, especially when you're suing fellow lawyers for legal malpractice. Ronnie Richter and Eric Bland have found success not in spite of their differences, but because of them. Ronnie, with his measured speech and precise actions, is the steady hand, while Eric, known for bringing intensity and disruption, shakes things up. Despite their contrasting styles, they are united by a shared purpose: righting wrongs and holding others accountable, all while maintaining a common vision for how to run their law firm.Eric and Ronnie may be best known for their role in the high-profile cases involving Alex Murdaugh, a South Carolina attorney who embezzled millions from his law firm and clients, and murdered his wife and son. While we touch on these case tangentially, this episode is much more about litigating legal malpractice and finding a law partner who shares your values, work ethic, and business sensibilities. With anecdotes ranging from their first big legal malpractice case to their current approach to mediation prep, this episode offers a raw, honest look at the ethics, accountability, and tenacity required to hold lawyers to the high standards they deserve. Importantly, they also highlight how young (and seasoned) lawyers find themselves in hot water, and how they can avoid it.Ronnie and Eric are graduates of the University of South Carolina School of Law.This episode is hosted by Katya Valasek.Mentioned in this episode:Learn more about BlueprintAccess LawHub today!Learn more about Seattle University School of LawLearn more about Seton HallLearn more about Baylor LawLearn more about Vermont Law

Bola Adeniran is a theater kid turned mid-level associate at a large Dallas law firm. She practices complex litigation and it's a more natural progression than you might expect. Bola discusses what she loves about document review, her early courtroom experiences, the differences between mentorship and sponsorship, and how she thinks about work-life balance. Bola graduated from St. Louis University School of Law.This episode is hosted by Katya Valasek.Mentioned in this episode:Access LawHub today!Learn more about Seton HallLearn more about Seattle University School of LawLearn more about Vermont LawLearn more about Baylor LawLearn more about Blueprint

Seret Gonzalez is in human resources with a startup after years of practicing law and legal recruiting. Her legal background has proven helpful in HR, even if it's not required to fulfill her job duties. Seret discusses the challenges and rewards of her current role, including the legal intricacies of managing HR across multiple states, the importance of building trust with employees and leadership alike, and how changing laws keep her on her toes. Seret Gonzalez is a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School.This episode is hosted by Kyle McEntee.Mentioned in this episode:Learn more about BlueprintLearn more about Vermont LawLearn more about Baylor LawLearn more about Seattle University School of LawLearn more about Seton HallAccess LawHub today!

Kiran Vakamudi is a senior associate at an elite law firm who specializes in corporate restructuring for companies in financial trouble. When a company can't repay debts and files for bankruptcy, some creditors get left with nothing. Kiran's job is to negotiate with creditors, develop a plan to reorganize the company's finances, and do what he can to ensure the company can continue operating -- perhaps with different owners. Kiran discusses how his job has changed from junior to senior associate, and how it would change again if he makes partner. He discusses how these growing responsibilities make for a difficult work schedule, including long hours and weekend work. While the intensity increases as a deal closes, it's also due to his responsibilities of managing others' work while still completing his own. Kiran is a graduate of the University of Texas School of Law.This episode is hosted by Katya Valasek.Mentioned in this episode:Access LawHub today!Learn more about Seton HallLearn more about Seattle University School of LawLearn more about BlueprintLearn more about Vermont LawLearn more about Baylor Law

Joe Richardson is a labor law lawyer with union clients, a seemingly significant pivot from his military service and defense contracting after college. He discusses his motivations for leaving the defense sector and how his upbringing influences his current work in labor relations. Joe shares insights into the intricacies of union representation and union dynamics, collective bargaining, contract negotiations, and the day-to-day challenges and rewards of advocating for workers' rights. Joe is a graduate of American University Washington College of Law.This episode his hosted by Katya Valasek.Mentioned in this episode:Learn more about Vermont LawLearn more about Baylor LawAccess LawHub today!Learn more about BlueprintLearn more about Seton HallLearn more about Seattle University School of Law

As Chief Disciplinary Counsel at the U.S. Virgin Islands Supreme Court, Tanisha Bailey-Roka protects legal consumers and the rule of law. She details her multifaceted role in investigating, evaluating, prosecuting, and adjudicating lawyer and judicial misconduct. Tanisha explains the three core principles guiding her work: reprimand, restitution, and rehabilitation, and discusses the broad jurisdiction of her office over anyone attempting to practice law in the territory. Tanisha also shares insights into the disciplinary process, from the initial complaint to potential sanctions, and reflects on the personal significance of serving in her community. Tanisha is a graduate of the University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law.This episode is hosted by Katya Valasek.Mentioned in this episode:Learn more about Vermont LawLearn more about Baylor LawLearn more about Seton HallLearn more about Seattle University School of LawLearn more about BlueprintAccess LawHub today!

After being abruptly fired from his first lawyer job, Mike Morse quickly pivoted to start his own solo practice focused exclusively on personal injury cases. He doesn’t practice much law these days because his firm has grown to more than 50 lawyers and 200 employees, so this episode concentrates on the business side of law. Mike discusses risk related to a contingency fee business model, overcoming fear of financial instability to pursue growth, and how important exceptional customer service is to success. We also hear the thinking behind one of his firm’s local Super Bowl spots. Mike Morse is a graduate of the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law.This episode is hosted by Katya Valasek.Mentioned in this episode:Access LawHub today!Learn more about BlueprintLearn more about Vermont LawLearn more about Baylor LawLearn more about Seattle University School of LawLearn more about Seton Hall

Jeremy Pisca is a state lobbyist working out of a law firm in a rural state capital. He discusses the personal and professional angles of relationship development, an especially difficult task in a state that sees a lot of turnover among state legislators. Since the legislature is only in session for three months, it's a really intense time for him and his team. They spend it tracking bills from committee to the floor, keeping their own whip count, educating elected officials, and staying informed. Time out of session is spent on elections, relationship development, and preparing for the next session. Jeremy is a graduate of the University of Idaho College of Law. This episode is hosted by Kyle McEntee.Mentioned in this episode:Learn more about Rutgers LawLearn more about Seattle University School of LawLearn more about Seton HallAccess LawHub today!Learn more about Baylor LawLearn more about Vermont Law

Andrea Tompkins is a capital markets partner at a global law firm based in London. She started her career at a Magic Circle firm (she'll explain that) after earning her J.D. in the U.S (she'll explain how to do that too). Andrea specializes in advising large companies and international investment banks on U.S. federal securities laws. She describes the intricacies of raising capital through equity and debt, the importance of material disclosures in securities offerings, and the process of guiding clients through IPOs and other public market transactions. While a capital markets practice can be downright volatile, it affords her an interesting role in engines of capitalism. Andrea is a graduate of Georgetown University Law Center.This episode is hosted by Kyle McEntee.Mentioned in this episode:Learn more about Baylor LawLearn more about Vermont LawAccess LawHub today!Learn more about Seton HallLearn more about Seattle University School of LawLearn more about Blueprint

Jenifer Slinskey manages the University of Pittsburgh's patent portfolio, a role that bridges the gap between academic research and industry commercialization. While this job does not require a law license, her STEM and patent law background improve the experience for the researchers she interfaces with and the outside patent counsel she manages. From submitting an invention disclosure form to collaborating with outside counsel, Jenifer outlines the rigorous process that transforms an inventor's academic idea into a commercial product. She provides an inside look at the collaborative effort required to protect and promote intellectual property at a leading research institution. Jenifer is a graduate of the University of Dayton School of Law.This episode is hosted by Katya Valasek.Mentioned in this episode:Learn more about BlueprintLearn more about Baylor LawLearn more about Vermont LawLearn more about Seattle University School of LawLearn more about Seton HallAccess LawHub today!

Ludmilla Kasulke, a seasoned lawyer-lobbyist based in Washington, D.C., amplifies the voices of her clients. Her world is one of competing interests, strategic relationships, legal intricacies, and raw politics. She aims to tip public policy in one direction (or another) through education, a nuanced understanding of political context, and strategies that can evolve on a dime. In the corridors of power, influence stems from access and information.  Ludmilla is a graduate of Georgetown University Law Center.This episode is hosted by Kyle McEntee.Mentioned in this episode:Learn more about Seton HallLearn more about Seattle University School of LawAccess LawHub today!Learn more about Baylor LawLearn more about Vermont LawLearn more about Blueprint