Above the Legal Limit

What makes someone a great hire—and what happens when the person who looks perfect on paper isn’t the right fit for the team?On this After Five episode of Above the Legal Limit, host Justin Chopin and law partner Phil Lorio have an honest conversation about hiring, workplace culture, leadership, and the lessons that can come from a hiring mistake.In this episode, Justin and Phil discuss:- Why a strong résumé and interview don’t always predict a good fit- Justin’s “50/50” view of hiring- Why pay isn’t the only factor that motivates people- The importance of strong, trusted team leaders- Justin’s approach to hiring people who bring strengths beyond his own- A hiring mistake from 2023 that left a lasting impression- A first taste of Aberlour 18, because it’s After FiveIf you’ve ever hired someone who seemed like the perfect fit but didn’t work out, this conversation is for you.Subscribe to Above the Legal Limit for more conversations about law, leadership, business, and life in New Orleans.

Rewrite this but make sure the guest's name is spelled right, it should be Bennett Kirschner : What does a trial lawyer have in common with a theater director? Almost everything.In this episode of Above the Legal Limit, host Justin Chopin sits down with Bennett Kirshner, founding artistic director of Intramural Theater in New Orleans, for a thoughtful conversation about performance, storytelling, identity, and the surprising connection between the courtroom and the stage.Justin describes the suit as “the mask” he puts on before court, opening the door to a deeper discussion about the roles people play, the stories they tell, and what it takes to connect with an audience, a jury, or a client.In this episode, Justin and Bennett explore:The connection between trial lawyers and theater directorsHow courtroom advocacy relies on storytelling and performanceThe role of authenticity behind a professional personaWhy presentation, preparation, and audience awareness matterThe similarities between a courtroom, a stage, and everyday lifeBennett’s work with Intramural Theater in New OrleansWhether you work in law, theater, business, or simply find yourself navigating different roles every day, this conversation offers a fresh perspective on how we present ourselves and connect with others.Learn more about Bennett Kirshner and Intramural Theater:https://intramuraltheater.orgWhat’s your “mask”? Share your answer in the comments.Subscribe to Above the Legal Limit for more conversations about law, leadership, creativity, and the people shaping New Orleans.

No one knows true fear like an entrepreneur the night before payroll.That’s where this episode of Above the Legal Limit goes beyond a typical business conversation.Host Justin Chopin sits down with Brandon Foreman, CEO of Family Resource Group Inc., for a candid discussion about entrepreneurship, leadership, marketing, and the pressure that comes with building and running a business.Brandon shares the lessons that shaped his approach to business, including a mountain-climbing experience that changed the way he leads, the “How can I help?” mindset behind his company’s growth across seven cities, and the simple rule he lives by: “Never skip twice.”In this episode, you’ll discover:How a mountain-climbing experience changed Brandon’s leadership philosophyThe “How can I help?” mindset behind Family Resource Group Inc.The 1-3-1 framework Brandon and Justin use to solve problems more efficientlyWhy client expectations and communication preferences are changingHow Brandon manages the uncertainty and responsibility of running a businessThe meaning behind “Never skip twice”The advice from Brandon’s mother that became clear after reaching the top of a mountainThis conversation is for business owners, entrepreneurs, leaders, and anyone who has ever felt responsible for solving a problem no one else could handle.Learn more about Brandon’s work:https://familyresourcegroupinc.comWhat is the loneliest part of running a business? Share your answer in the comments.Subscribe to Above the Legal Limit for more honest conversations about business, leadership, law, and entrepreneurship.

Can authenticity become New Orleans’ greatest economic advantage?On this episode of Above the Legal Limit, host Justin Chopin sits down with Michael Hecht, President and CEO of Greater New Orleans, Inc., for a candid conversation about the future of New Orleans and Louisiana.Michael explains why the world is finally paying attention to what New Orleans has always done well, which industries are driving the state’s next phase of growth, and why the city’s “date NOLA, marry Dallas” reputation may soon be outdated.In this episode, Justin and Michael discuss:The authenticity premium and why it matters in an age of AI-generated contentFour industries shaping Louisiana’s economic futureThe changing relationship between New Orleans, Dallas, and other growing marketsHow artificial intelligence could influence the future of the cityThe challenges Louisiana must overcome to reach its full potentialMichael’s thoughts on local culture, business, branding, and communityThe conversation also includes candid stories about THC drinks, DUI podcast branding, and why Louisiana may be home to the best barbecue in America.Whether you live in New Orleans, left Louisiana, or have never visited, this episode offers a compelling look at why more people are paying attention to the state’s future.Learn more about Michael Hecht’s work at Greater New Orleans Inc.: https://gnoinc.orgSubscribe to Above the Legal Limit for more conversations about law, leadership, business, and the future of Louisiana.

We’ve all said it: “F*ck cancer.” But saying it isn’t the same as doing something about it.On this episode of Above the Legal Limit, host Justin Chopin sits down with Phil Lorio, law partner and Cure Gala chairman, and Ryan Williams of the American Cancer Society in New Orleans for a candid conversation about what it really means to fight back against cancer.The conversation goes beyond the hashtags and social media posts to highlight the people, programs, and personal experiences behind the fight.In this episode:· Why “f*ck cancer” is the starting point—not the finish· The Patrick F. Taylor Hope Lodge, which provides free lodging for cancer patients and their caregivers· The American Cancer Society’s volunteer driver program helping patients get to treatment· Phil Lorio shares a deeply personal story about his late mother and a dream that changed his perspective· Justin Chopin reflects on losing his aunt at MD Anderson and why this cause is personal· A behind-the-scenes look at the Cure Gala, including an unforgettable bidding warWhether you’ve lost someone to cancer, are fighting it yourself, supporting a loved one, or simply want to help, there’s a way to make a difference.You don’t have to make a huge donation. Volunteer. Give $5. Share the message. Every bit of support matters.📍 Cure Gala 2026September 26, 2026Mardi Gras World | New Orleans👉 Learn more or donate: https://nolacurebydesign.org