The SERMAPod: Recent Episodes
Rich Lenkov
Join personalities from SERMA (Sports & Entertainment Risk Management Alliance) for insightful discussions on a variety of trending and important topics in claims facing the industry.
A Little League player hits a home run, flips his bat — and gets ejected and suspended. His family fights back, and the case lands in court.
Host Rich Lenkov speaks with attorney Brian Berkley of Fox Rothschild about his role in the high-profile New Jersey Bat Flip case, where a judge ruled in favor of the young athlete. They explore the key questions:
- Was the ejection consistent with Little League’s own rules?
- What does “implied contract” mean for youth sports organizations?
- How can leagues avoid similar situations in the future?
A fascinating intersection of law, sports, and fairness, this episode highlights how even youth athletics can raise major legal implications.
Listen now to The SERMAPod, presented by the Sports and Entertainment Risk Management Alliance (SERMA) — where sports, law, and risk management meet.
Join SERMA today: https://www.theserma.org/
Brian Berkley: https://www.foxrothschild.com/brian-a-berkley
And a special thanks to our sponsor, Magna Legal Services: https://magnals.com/
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov talks with Nick Hanes, Mallory Taylor, and Reggie Miller of the North American Contingency Association (NACA) about the new SERMA–NACA strategic partnership. The group explores how contingency insurance safeguards sports and entertainment events from disruptions like weather, illness, and other unforeseen risks—and why collaboration across underwriting, brokerage, and risk management is more important than ever.
Join SERMA today: https://www.theserma.org/
Thank you to our sponsor, Magna Legal Services: https://magnals.com/
Professor John Wolohan of Syracuse University joins the SERMAPod to break down the viral “Phillies Karen” incident — from foul ball property rights to stadium liability — with a mix of legal insight and fan perspective.
Join SERMA today: https://www.theserma.org/
John Wolohan: https://news.syr.edu/faculty-experts/john-wolohan/
And a special thanks to our sponsor, Magna Legal Services: https://magnals.com/
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by Dr. James Borchers, the President of the U.S. Counsel for Athletes’ Health (USCAH), to explore the evolving landscape of college athletics in light of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals, focusing on the implications for athlete health, the role of medical providers, and the ethical dilemmas that arise. Dr. Borchers discusses the challenges faced by athletes and medical professionals as financial pressures increase, the impact of the transfer portal on care continuity, and the need for better regulations to protect athlete health and safety.
Join SERMA today: https://theserma.org/
Dr. James Borchers: https://medicine.osu.edu/find-faculty/clinical/family-medicine/james-borchers-md
USCAH: https://uscah.com/
And a big thanks to our sponsor, Magna Legal Services!
https://magnals.com/
SERMA Founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by Professor Matt Mitten of Marquette University Law School to discuss the pending lawsuit between the University of Wisconsin and the University of Miami, wherein Miami is alleged to have illegally poached a Wisconsin football player, Xavier Lucas, in violation of his NIL contracts. As discussed in this episode, the outcome of this case could have significant implications for NIL contract enforcement and athlete transfers across college sports.
Join SERMA today: https://www.theserma.org/
Professor Matt Mitten: https://law.marquette.edu/faculty-and-staff-directory/matthew-mitten
And a big thanks to The SERMAPod’s sponsor, Magna Legal Services: https://magnals.com/
SERMAPod hit the track at the legendary Indianapolis Motor Speedway during Brickyard 400 practice to unpack the fast-paced world of Racing Industry Risk.
Hosted by SERMA Founder/CEO Rich Lenkov, this special episode features:
▸ Indianapolis Motor Speedway Chief Diversity Officer & Senior Corporate Counsel Jimmie McMillian
▸ Davies North America Senior Vice President, Field Services George Burgee
▸ Advisory Board Member and Players Health Head of MGA & Vice President of Underwriting Jayson DeMarco
This episode includes a discussion on legal liabilities, insurance challenges, workers’ comp for race teams, and the risks behind fan zones, concerts, and carnival rides. From drone crashes to climate concerns, this episode takes you under the hood of motorsports risk management.
Join SERMA today: https://theserma.org/
And a special thanks to our sponsor, Magna Legal Services!
https://magnals.com/
Guest host Brian Rosenblatt is joined by attorney Wallace Collins to discuss the ongoing lawsuit between music group Salt-N-Pepa against Universal Music Group in an effort to obtain ownership of their master recordings.
Wallace Collins: http://www.wallacecollins.com/
Join SERMA today: https://www.theserma.org/
SERMA General Counsel and Advisory Board member Brian Rosenblatt welcomes attorney Aaron Moss to discuss an ongoing copyright infringement lawsuit brought by Warner Music Group against Crumbl over its alleged unauthorized use of copyrighted songs in their social media videos without permission.
Join SERMA today: https://theserma.org/
Aaron Moss: https://www.msk.com/attorneys-aaron-moss
Brian Rosenblatt: https://www.dl-firm.com/attorneys/brian-a-rosenblatt/
Thank you to Magna Legal Services for sponsoring the SERMApod: https://magnals.com/
Thank you to EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants for their sponsorship at SERMAnar III: https://www.epicbrokers.com
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by James Nussbaum to discuss the recent Court ruling in the House v. NCAA case, which establishes and confirms new and groundbreaking rules regarding payments to college athletes.
Join SERMA today: https://theserma.org/
James Nussbaum: https://www.cchalaw.com/our-people/james-nussbaum
Thank you to A-G Specialty Insurance for their sponsorship at SERMAnar III: https://agspecialtyinsurance.com/
And thank you to our sponsor, Magna Legal Services: https://magnals.com/
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by attorney Arthur H. Bryant to discuss an overview of Title IX and recent changes made by the Trump administration to NIL payments under Title IX.
Arthur H. Bryant: https://clarksonlawfirm.com/people/arthur-bryant/
Join SERMA today: https://theserma.org/
Thank you to Applied Entertainment & Sports for their sponsorship at SERMAnar III: https://www.aes.auw.com/
And thank you to our sponsor Magna Legal Services: https://magnals.com/
Guest host Virginia Pederson is joined by attorney Seth Myers to discuss potential legal implications involving golf clubs following the recent tragic death of John Elway’s agent after falling from a golf cart.
Seth Myers: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethmyers832/
Virginia Pederson: https://www.mayerllp.com/attorneys/virginia-pederson
Join SERMA today: https://www.theserma.org/
Thank you to WTW for their sponsorship at SERMAnar III: https://www.wtwco.com/en-us
And thanks to our sponsor, Magna Legal Services: https://magnals.com/
Guest host Marci Reading of Command Investigations is joined by Professor Sam C. Ehrlich, Assistant Professor of Legal Studies at Boise State, to discuss the very unique website he developed to track court cases involving college athletics, breaking down the complex legal proceedings and key litigation into easily understandable summaries and providing a calendar of each event.
The College Sports Litigation Tracker: https://www.collegesportslitigationtracker.com/
Join SERMA today: https://theserma.org
Professor Ehrlich: https://www.boisestate.edu/cobe-management/faculty-staff/sam-c-ehrlich-jd-ph-d/
Also, a big thanks to our sponsor Magna Legal Services!
https://magnals.com
Guest host Brian Rosenblatt is joined by attorney Puya Partow-Navid to discuss the history of the "Three-Peat" trademark, as well as the larger concepts of how trademarks and intellectual property affect sports.
Join SERMA today: https://www.theserma.org/
Puya Partow-Navid: https://www.seyfarth.com/people/puya-partow-navid.html
Also, a big thanks to our sponsor, Magna Legal Services.
https://magnals.com/
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by Senior Property Risk Consultant Jonathan Frost of MarshMcLennan to discuss several important aspects of venue security, as well as the Venue Guide for Security Enhancements put out by the Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA).
Join SERMA today: https://www.theserma.org/
Jonathan Frost: https://www.marshmclennan.com/about/our-people/jonathan-frost.html
And a BIG thank to our podcast sponsor, Magna Legal Services!
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by attorney Caitlin Kovacs to discuss the current state of multiple legal actions involving actress Blake Lively and co-star/director Justin Baldoni from the movie "It Ends With Us."
Join SERMA today: https://theserma.org/
Caitlin Kovacs: https://www.beneschlaw.com/people/caitlin-kovacs.html
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by attorney Kevin Casini to discuss the current landscape of a lawsuit brought by recording artist Drake against record label Universal Music Group, for alleged defamation contained in Kendrick Lamar's "Not Like Us" song.
Kevin Casini: https://www.casinilaw.com/
Join SERMA today: https://theserma.org
And a BIG thanks to our sponsor, Magna Legal Services: https://magnals.com/
Guest host Matt Liller is joined by attorney Eric Cramer to discuss not one, but two, high-profile cases wherein he (Eric) represents fighters against the UFC. Hear the details of what the cases are about, what he learned during discovery, and how he hopes to improve conditions for all fighters going forward.
Join SERMA today: https://theserma.org
Eric Cramer: https://bergermontague.com/eric/
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by attorney Rebecca Adelman to discuss prevention programs, preservation of evidence, and formal litigation hold policies in high risk industries.
Thanks to our sponsor, Magna Legal Services!
Join SERMA today: theserma.org
Rebecca Adelman: https://adelmanfirm.com/
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by attorneys Baird Fogel and Rachel Reid to discuss the current landscape of using Artificial Intelligence ("AI") in the world of gambling on professional sports.
Join SERMA today: https://theserma.org/
Biard Fogel: https://www.eversheds-sutherland.com/en/united-states/people/fogel-baird
Rachel Reid: https://www.eversheds-sutherland.com/en/united-states/people/reid-rachel
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by attorney Jay Taylor to discuss different funding methods for film and TV projects, both old and new, as well as managing risks and avoiding legal pitfalls.
Join SERMA today: https://theserma.org
Jay Taylor: https://andersonkill.com/people/jay-l-taylor/
This special episode of the SERMAPod features the keynote speech from SERMA's inaugural Youth Sports Risk Conference. Former professional baseball player and CEO of 3A Athletics Travis Snider discusses his journey from youth sports to the major leagues, including how sports as a whole impact the younger generation.
Join SERMA today: www.theserma.org
Travis Snider: https://www.3athletics.com/about-us
Guest host Michael Melamed is joined by attorney Aarij Wasti to discuss several AI-related topics, including how generative AI can affect the sports world.
Join SERMA today: https://www.theserma.org/
Arij Wasti: https://gowlingwlg.com/en/people/aarij-wasti
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by Dina Bell-Laroche to discuss the important, yet often underserved, topic of dealing with grief and loss in sports and athletics.
Join SERMA today: https://www.theserma.org/
Dina Bell-Laroche: https://instituteofcoaching.org/author/bell-laroche-dina
SERMA general counsel and advisory board member Brian Rosenblatt is joined (again!) by law professor Rebecca Delfino to discuss new legislation from Tennessed, coined the ELVIS Act, which is the first of its kind to offer protection for the unauthorized use of AI-created voices which mimic known persons.
Join SERMA today: https://www.theserma.org/
Professor Rebecca Delfino: https://www.lls.edu/faculty/facultylistc-d/rebeccadelfino/
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by attorney Alexander Rufus-Isaacs to discuss defamation, including specific defamation lawsuits, by public figures against film and streaming companies for inaccurate portrayals.
Join SERMA today: https://www.theserma.org/
Alexander Rufus-Isaacs: https://www.rufuslaw.com/alexander-rufus-isaacs/
SERMA CEO and founder Rich Lenkov is joined by attorney Cannon Lambert, Sr. to discuss the shocking videos from the Tyreek Hill traffic stop, as Tyreek was just blocks from the Miami Dolphins' stadium for their 2024-25 season home opener.
Join SERMA today: https://theserma.org/
Cannon Lambert, Sr.:
https://www.getthecannon.com/attorneys/cannon-lambert-attorney
Guest host Brian Cafritz is joined by Peter A. Carfagna, the Chairman and CEO of Magis, LLC, a privately owned sports marketing, management and investment company, as well as supervisor of the sports law program at Harvard Law School, to discuss current issues with "amateurism" in college sports given the ability for athletes to get paid via name, image, and likeness ("NIL") deals.
Join SERMA today: https://www.theserma.org/
Peter Carfagna: https://hls.harvard.edu/faculty/peter-a-carfagna/
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by co-host Mike Melamed and (Canadian) Senator Marty Deacon to discuss pending Bill S-269, which would provide regulations surrounding betting in sports.
Join SERMA today: https://theserma.org
Senator Marty Deacon: https://sencanada.ca/en/senators/deacon-marty/
Bill S-269: https://www.parl.ca/LegisInfo/en/bill/44-1/S-269/
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined (again!) by attorney Bryan Sullivan, this time to discuss potential legal implication and challenges to a Donald Trump Biopic, 'The Apprentice.'
Join SERMA today: https://theserma.org
Bryan Sullivan: https://www.earlysullivan.com/attorneys/bryan-m-sullivan
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by an all-star panel of Ryan Douglas, Jayson DeMarco, and Shalom Suniula to discuss event cancellation insurance and potential claims following an unexpected cancellation of a live event, inspired by abrupt cancellation of two Taylor Swift concerts in Vienna, Austria after authorities uncovered a potential security threat.
Join SERMA today: https://theserma.org/
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by Matt Mitten, Professor of Law and Executive Director of the National Sports Law Institute at Marquette University Law School, to discuss a proposed monetary settlement from the House v. NCAA lawsuit that would see payments given to athletes across many Universities.
Join SERMA today: www.theserma.org
Matt Mitten: https://law.marquette.edu/faculty-and-staff-directory/matthew-mitten
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by Marshall Gilinsky of Anderson Kill to discuss how insurance coverage can apply to claims and cases involving allegation of sexual harassment and/or sexual abuse.
Join SERMA today: www.theserma.org
Marshall Gilinsky: https://andersonkill.com/people/marshall-gilinsky/
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by Rebecca Delfino, Associate Dean for Clinical Programs and Experiental Learning at Loyola Law School, to discuss artificial intelligence “deepfakes” and legal issues that can arise when celebrities’ likenesses are replicated without their consent.
Join SERMA today: www.theserma.org
Rebecca Delfino: https://www.lls.edu/faculty/facultylistc-d/rebeccadelfino/
SERMA’s CEO and founder Rich Lenkov is joined by attorney Mit Winter to discuss groundbreaking developments in the important case of House v. NCAA, involving a (potential) HUGE settlement of claims brought by former athletes for lost NIL (name, image, and likeness) revenue.
Join SERMA today: www.theserma.org
Mit Winter: https://kennyhertzperry.com/kennyhertz-perry-lawyers/mit-winter/
SERMA Founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by Jeremy Luke, the CEO and President of the Canadian Centre of Ethics and Sports, to discuss ongoing problems and concerns with sports betting.
Join SERMA today: www.theserma.org
Jeremy Luke: https://cces.ca/news/jeremy-luke-announced-cces-president-and-ceo
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by Shirin Malkani of Perkins Coie to discuss how the now ever-present Artificial Intelligence (AI) can have legal implications in professional sports.
Join SERMA today: www.theserma.org
Shirin Malkani: https://www.perkinscoie.com/en/professionals/shirin-malkani.html
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by Jonathan Hirschler of Signify Group to discuss how athletes can be targeted and abused online, and how Signify’s groundbreaking Threat Matrix can detect potential threats.
Join SERMA today: www.theserma.org
Signify Group: https://www.signify.ai/
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by Professor I. Nelson Rose, one of the world’s leading experts on gambling law, to discuss the Shohei Ohtani gambling scandal as well as how gambling impacts professional sports.
Join SERMA today: www.theserma.org
Professor I. Nelson Rose: https://www.gamblingandthelaw.com/
Guest host Brian Cafritz is joined by Lisa Licata, Senior Director at National Alliance for Youth Sports (NAYS) to discuss the handling and prevention of unruly parents at youth sporting events.
Join SERMA today: www.theserma.org
Brian Cafritz: https://www.kpmlaw.com/attorneys/brian-allen-cafritz/
Lisa Licata: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-licata-978a1411
Guest host Matt Liller is joined by attorney David Stamatis of Descartes Underwriting to discuss the world of parametric insurance. What is it, how does it work, who is it for, and how does it interplay with traditional insurance policies? Listen to find out!
Join SERMA today: www.theserma.org
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by attorney Will Palmer to discuss the ongoing challenges to the NCAA's NIL (name, image, and likeness) rules.
Join SERMA today: www.theserma.org
Will Palmer: https://www.kaufcan.com/attorneys/william-m-palmer/
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by attorney Trecia Moore to discuss the historic developments and rulings involving the Dartmouth College men's basketball team unionizing.
Join SERMA today: www.theserma.org
Trecia Moore: https://www.huschblackwell.com/professionals/trecia-moore
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by Professor Gil Fried of the University of West Florida to discuss court/field stormings from a risk perspective, particularly in wake of several high profile court stormings that resulted in player injuries.
Join SERMA today: www.theserma.org
Professor Gil Fried: https://uwf.edu/cob/departments/commerce/faculty/dr-gil-fried.html
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by Marci Reading of Command Investigation to discuss investigatory tools, and particularly social media, in defending legal claims in sports & entertainment cases.
Join SERMA today: www.theserma.org
Command Investigations: www.gocommand.com
Guest host Matt Liller is joined by attorney Steve Adelman to discuss the standard of care at live events and steps that organizers and event spaces can take to reduce claims.
Join SERMA today: www.theserma.org
Steve Adelman: https://adelmanlawgroup.com/
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by attorney Gabriel Castro of BAL to discuss recent developments and proposed legislation in NIL deals for foreign students.
Join SERMA today: www.theserma.org
Gabriel Castro: https://www.bal.com/people/j-gabriel-castro/
Guest host Matt Liller is joined by attorney Jennifer Steinmetz of Tucker Ellis LLP to discuss potential claims from athletes injured while playing on artificial turf.
Join SERMA today: www.theserma.org
Jennifer Steinmetz: https://www.tuckerellis.com/people/jennifer-l-steinmetz/
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenokv is joined by Professor Michael H. LeRoy of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign to discuss recent developments on student-athletes potentially being considered "employees" of their respective colleges and universities.
Join SERMA today: www.theserma.org
Michael LeRoy: https://ler.illinois.edu/directory/992/
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by Physical Therapist Joseph Noel of ION PT Solutions to discuss the details and intricacies of treating injuries of high level athletes.
Join SERMA today: www.theserma.org
Joe Noel: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joseph-noel-pt-a339711b/
Guest host Matt Liller is joined by attorney Ksenia Maiorova of Maiorova Law, LLC to discuss a number of issues involving immigration of foreign born athletes to the United States.
Join SERMA today: www.theserma.org
Ksenia Maiorova: www.kmimmigration.com
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by Kip Daniels and Bob Doucette, creators of innovative product Red Alert Wax, aimed at reducing slip and fall injuries and claims.
Join SERMA today: www.theserma.org
Red Alert Wax: www.redalertwax.com
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by 2-time Olympian Katherine Starr, the founder of Safe 4 Athletes and author of “Rescue Me: A Powerful Memoir of an Olympian” to discuss the unfortunate history and trends of sexual harassment of athletes by their coaches.
Join SERMA today: www.theserma.org
Katherine Starr: https://safe4athletes.org/katherine-starr/
Guest host Matt Liller is joined by Dr. Gil Fried from the University of West Florida, an expert in sport and facility risk management, to discuss spectator incidents and ways venues and facilities can work to prevent them.
Join SERMA today: www.theserma.org
Gil Fried: https://uwf.edu/cob/departments/commerce/faculty/dr-gil-fried.html
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by attorney Emily Chase-Sosnoff to discuss recent allegations of a WNBA player being discriminated against due to pregnancy, as well as a bigger look at the issue in women's sports.
Join SERMA today: www.theserma.org
Emily Chase-Sosnoff: https://www.fordharrison.com/EmilyChase-Sosnoff
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by Dean Bridget Niland of Niagara University College of Hospitality, Sport, and Tourism Management to discuss Name, Image, & Likeness (“NIL”) deals with NCAA athletes, how they have reached heights never before thought possible, and how they affect both athletes and their schools.
Join SERMA today: www.theserma.org
Dean Niland: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-niland-5174767
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by attorneys Kristi Dosh and Madeline Myers to discuss the rules governing international student athletes’ ability to be compensated, including their ability to derive income from a name, image, and likeness (“NIL”) deal.
Join SERMA today: www.theserma.org
Kristi Dosh: https://businessofcollegesports.com/
Madeline Myers: https://www.linkedin.com/in/madeline-myers
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by attorney Odell Mitchell III to discuss the ongoing Hollywood strike, including what it’s about, why these issues are important, and when it may end.
Join SERMA today: www.theserma.org
Odell Mitchell III: https://www.thirdinlinelegal.com/
SERMA fonder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by psychologist Dr. Susan Lipkins for a discussion on this history of sports hazing, why it continues, its effects on victims, and steps coaches and players can take to stop this culture.
Join SERMA today: www.theserma.org
Dr. Susan Lipkins: https://www.insidehazing.com/dr-lipkins
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by attorney Mikaela Whitman from Pasich, LLP to discuss defamation claims and lawsuits generally, as well as how some insurance policies can afford coverage against these claims.
Join SERMA today: www.theserma.org
Mikaela Whitman: https://pasichllp.com/attorney/mikaela-whitman/
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by former college athlete and Illinois State Representative Kam Buckner to discuss recent allegations of hazing at Northwestern University, as well as Representative Buckner’s efforts to enact legislation against hazing practices.
Join SERMA today: www.theserma.org
Representative Kam Buckner: https://www.kambuckner.com/
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by attorney David Cummings of Reed Smith to discuss unique and lesser-known types of insurance coverages, including those for specific body parts, physical characteristics, and even disgrace. In this episode, you’ll learn what those coverages are and who may benefit from them.
David Cummings: https://www.reedsmith.com/en/professionals/c/cummings-david-m
Join SERMA today: www.theserma.org
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by musicologist Judith Finell of MusicServices Inc. to discuss the recent verdict in Ed Sheeran's (very public) copyright infringement lawsuit over his Grammy-winning song, "Thinking Out Loud." Rich and Judith discuss how these music copyright lawsuits develop, as well as how artists and expert witnesses combat these claims.
Judith Finell: https://www.jfmusicservices.com/judith-finell/
Join SERMA today: www.theserma.org
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by attorney Gerald Maatman of Duane Morris LLP to discuss breaking news on the new relationship (merger??) between the PGA and LIV golf, and potential federal antitrust issues that may arise from it.
https://www.duanemorris.com/attorneys/geraldmaatman.html
Join SERMA today: www.theserma.org
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by attorneys Patrick Essiminy and Antoine Metayer of Stikeman Elliott (three proud Canadians) to discuss the current intersection of Canadian sports and the law! In additional to their legal analysis, the panel also gives their predictions on the 2023 Stanley Cup Playoffs.
Patrick Essiminy: https://www.stikeman.com/en-ca/people/e/patrick-essiminy
Antoine Metayer: https://www.stikeman.com/en-ca/people/m/antoine-metayer
Join SERMA today: www.theserma.org
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by Professor Kermit Roosevelt from the University of Pennsylvania School of Law to discuss the potential use of song lyrics from rapper Young Thug in his criminal trial as substantive evidence. The discussion includes Constitutional analysis, as well as new legislation specifically addressing the use of rap lyrics as evidence in criminal proceedings.
Kermit Roosevelt: https://www.law.upenn.edu/faculty/krooseve
Join SERMA today: www.theserma.org
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by attorney Paul Fakler of Mayer Brown to discuss the relatively new (and imprecise) area of law involving copyright lawsuits over musical beats or rhythms, as well as the strategies employed by the litigants when fighting and defending these claims.
Paul Fackler: https://www.mayerbrown.com/en/people/f/paul-fakler?tab=overview
Join SERMA today: www.theserma.org
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by entertainment lawyer Wallace Collins to discuss the role of Artificial Intelligence ("AI") in the music industry, and how artists' potential use of AI could affect copyright claims made against their music.
Wallace Collins: https://www.wallacecollins.com/
"Rock and Roll President": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tVRs7YRQGU0
Join SERMA today: www.theserma.org
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by attorney Barry Chase of ChaseLawyers to discuss a recently filed lawsuit by certain police officers against rapper Afroman after they searched his property pursuant to a warrant. Following the search, Afroman released a song, music video, and merchandise about the officers' escapades, including an interesting interaction with some lemon pound cake. Rich and Barry break down the officers' allegations of invasion of the right to personality and how First Amendment protections factor into these claims.
Barry Chase: https://entertainmentlawyermiami.com/entertainment-law-attorneys/barry-oliver-chase-entertainment-attorney/
Join SERMA Today: www.theserma.org
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by attorney Julie Hopkins of Hopkins IP to discuss the unsuccessful efforts of the Baltimore Ravens football team to trademark the term “Charm City.” This episode includes a discussion on what can be trademarked, what protection are afforded with a trademark, and why the Ravens have been unable, at least to date, to trademark “Charm City.”
Julie Hopkins: https://www.hopkins-ip.com/about/
Join SERMA today: www.theserma.org
SERMA founder & CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by attorney Luke Fedlam of Porter Wright to discuss the history of NIL regulations with respect to NCAA athletes and the actions taken by the NCAA against the Miami Hurricanes’ Cavinder twins for alleged NIL violations.
Luke Fedlam: https://www.porterwright.com/luke-a-fedlam/
Join SERMA today: www.theserma.org
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by attorney Bryan Sullivan to discuss a recent episode of ‘South Park’ which includes a (cartoon) parody of Meghan & Harry. The discussion includes a multitude of defenses the show and network would have if suit was filed, and the potential arguments that could be made in support of a claim.
Bryan Sullivan: https://www.earlysullivan.com/attorneys/bryan-m-sullivan
Join SERMA today: www.theserma.org
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by attorney David Hollander of Stafford Rosenbaum LLP to discuss two lawsuits filed by Bret Favre, against Shannon Sharpe and Pat McAfee, for allegedly defamatory statements relating to spending of welfare money. The discussion includes a review of the elements of defamation, what Favre must prove to prevail in these suits, potential defenses, and potential damages recoverable by Favre.
David Hollander: https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/david-hollander/
David’s article: https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/litigation/brett-favres-hail-mary-first-amendment-hurdles-in-defamation-cases/
Join SERMA today: www.theserma.org
SERMA founder and CEO is joined by attorney Bryan Sullivan of Early Sullivan to discuss the formative structure of film production companies and how that can afford corporate protection, how insurance comes into play, how the potential for liability and claims can affect an actors’ willingness to participate in a film, and issues surrounding Alec Baldwin’s criminal charges from the “Rust” incident.
Bryan Sullivan: https://www.earlysullivan.com/attorneys/bryan-m-sullivan
Join SERMA today: www.theserma.org
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by attorney Dan Novack to discuss the liability considerations and realities of producing content that is based on a true story and/or inspired by real-life events.
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Dan Novack: https://www.novackmedialaw.com/
SERMA founder and CEO is joined by attorney Tim Peterson to discuss interesting and unique jurisdictional issues and challenges to workers’ compensation claims filed by athletes following injury.
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Tim Peterson: https://bpkfirm.com/timothy-peterson/
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by attorney Michael Pang of Allison McLean to discuss the unique complexities of workers’ compensation claims in California, and particularly those filed by athletes who may have limited contacts with the state.
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Michael Pang: https://adelsonmclean.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/AM-Law_Michael-Pang.pdf
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by attorney Landis Barber to discuss the trial brought by the widow of former USC football player Matthew Gee against the NCAA, which alleged the NCAA failed to protect him from repeated head trauma that led to his death. SPOILER ALERT: a jury found the NCAA not liable.
Join SERMA: www.theserma.org
Landis Barber’s blog: www.offthecourtdocket.com
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by an All-Star panel to discuss how individuals can manage and cope with psychological trauma after witnessing a traumatic event, specifically inspired by Buffalo Bills’ safety Damar Hamlin suffering an on-field cardiac arrest during an NFL game.
Jessica Mechtly: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-mechtly-b452b783
Jeff Gorter: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-gorter-4a219a5
Dr. Angel Brutus: https://www.sportpsychsynergy.com/dr-angel-brutus
Dr. Jess Bartley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jess-bartley
Join SERMA: www.theserma.org
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by Professor Betsy Rosenblatt of the University of Tulsa and Dr. Derek Miller of Harvard University discuss a recent (unusual ) lawsuit stemming from a fan-created musical based on the hit Netflix show Bridgerton.
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Betsy Rosenblatt: https://faculty.utulsa.edu/faculty/betsy-rosenblatt/
Derek Miller: https://english.fas.harvard.edu/people/derek-miller
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by attorney Peter Halprin of Pastich, LLP to discuss the development of “cyberinsurance,” what it covers, and the cyber dangers affecting the movie and TV industry. Peter also takes the SERMAquiz on his sports and movie likes and dislikes!
Peter Halprin: https://pasichllp.com/attorney/peter-a-halprin/
Join SERMA today: www.theserma.org
Riley Cote is a former NHL player who suited up for 8 seasons with the Philadelphia Flyers as an enforcer. Since retiring from professional hockey in 2010 with some concussion-related collateral damage, Riley has embarked on a quest of holism, healing, and alternative/natural medicines. He became a student of life, committed to personal development and spiritual growth. He studied different philosophies and perspectives on nutrition, exercise, recovery, plant medicine, and overall wellness, all of which he uses to help others become more aware and in tune with themselves and ultimately increasing quality of life.
SERMA was honored that Riley delivered the keynote speech at our first annual SERMAnar in Philadelphia, PA in October 2022 to discuss his journey to professional hockey as well as his growth and development after the ice.
This is a FREE episode of our popular SERMAPod, the official podcast of the Sports and Entertainment Risk Management Alliance, which is typically exclusive to our members. Join SERMA today to begin enjoying the numerous membership benefits and the impressive library of The SERMAPod!
Join SERMA: www.theserma.org
Riley Cote: www.rileycote.com
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by attorney Jonathan Steinsapir of Kinsella Weitzman Iser Kump Holley to discuss how beloved characters and music can eventually enter the public domain, and specifically how this area of the law allows the beloved Winnie the Pooh character to be portrayed in an upcoming horror movie.
Official Trailer, "Winnie the Pooh: Blood and Honey": HERE
Jonathan Steinsapir: BIO
SERMA: www.theserma.org
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by attorney Rachel Fiset of Zweiback, Fiset & Zalduendo LLP to discuss potential civil, administrative, and criminal liability stemming from the fatal shooting of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins on the set of "Rust" in October 2021.
SERMA: www.theserma.org
Rachel Fiset: https://zfzlaw.com/team-members/rachel-fiset/
SERMA founder & CEO Rich Lenkov moderates the first annual SERMAnar on October 12, 2022 from the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, PA.
Advisory Board members David Dwortz (President & CEO of Helmsman Management), Faith Mason (Director, Global Claims Management for Comcast NBCUniversal Sky), Laurie Kleinman (VP, Legal & Risk Management for Comcast Spectacor), and Jessica Mechtly (Associate Director, Risk Management for the US Olympic & Paralympic Committee) hold a panel discussion of managing event risk.
SERMA: www.theserma.org
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by attorney Larry Zerner of Zerner Law to discuss the history of litigation surrounding the film Friday the 13th. FUN FACT: Larry played Shelly Finkelstein in Friday the 13th Part III, the original owner of the infamous hockey mask which became Jason Voorhees’s trademark! Larry shares special memories from the set as well as a unique perspective on the film’s litigation.
Larry Zerner: https://www.zernerlaw.com/
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by security and risk management expert Michael Clarke of The SAFER Solution to discuss the 2017 Las Vegas shooting at the Route 91 Harvest Country Music Festival, as well as steps that venues and events can take to prevent and/or reduce the risk of active shooter events.
SERMA on the web: www.theserma.org
Michael Clarke: BIO
SERMA Founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by Neil Elan of Stubbs, Alderton and Markiles to discuss the highly publicized case of Miramax v. Tarantino, et al., involving Quentin Tarantino's selling of Non Fungible Tokens ("NFTs") surrounding the screenplan of the movie Pulp Fiction.
SERMA on the web: www.theserma.org
Neil Elan's BIO
Read Neil's article in Forbes HERE
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by attorneys Peter Ginsberg of Moskowitz & Book, LLP and Craig Seebald of Vinson & Elkins to discuss the newly established LIV Golf and ongoing litigation with the PGA Tour.
Join SERMA today: www.serma.org
Peter R. Ginsberg, Esq: Bio
Craig P. Seebald: Bio
SERMA Founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by Jessica Mechtly, Associate Director of Risk Management for the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee, Professor Barbara Osborne from the University of North Carolina, and law students Taylor Weaver and Bekah Ansboro for a panel discussion on the history of Title IX and its impact on athletics.
Join SERMA today: www.theserma.org
Jessica Mechtly: LinkedIn
Barbara Osborne: LinkedIn
Taylor Weaver: LinkedIn
Bekah Ansboro: LinkedIn
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by attorney Richard Hayber of Hayber, McKenna & Dinsmore, LLC for a discussion of the pending lawsuit filed by sports personality Sage Steele against ESPN and Walt Disney Co., including the case's background, its specific statutory framework, and potential outcomes.
SERMA on the Web: www.theserma.org
Richard Hayber - BIO
SERMA Founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by Todd Overton of Fugu Prize Indemnity, Inc. for a discussion on prize insurance and its application to player contracts, fan contests, and even game shows.
SERMA on the web: www.theserma.org
Todd Overton on LinkedIn: HERE
SERMA founder and CEO Rich Lenkov is joined by Dan Lust, Esq. and law student Taylor Weaver to discuss the criminal and civil liability aspects of unruly fans at sporting events, as well as the practicality of enforcing lifetime bans. We also hear stories of their biggest fan disappointments.
SERMA on the web: www.theserma.org
Subscribe and listen to Dan Lust's podcast Conduct Detrimental HERE
Taylor Weaver on LinkedIn HERE
SERMA CEO and founder Rich Lenkov is joined by attorney Chris Deubert of Constangy, Brooks, Smith & Prophete LLP to discuss a lawsuit filed by former Jacksonville Jaguars kicker Josh Lambo for an alleged incident with head coach Urban Meyer, as well as the unique legal theory asserted and the case's potential outcome.
SERMA on the Web: www.theserma.org
SERMA Board Member Brian Rosenblatt is joined by Drs. Hayleigh Bosher and E. Michael Harrington to discuss several high profile music copyright infringement lawsuits, against the likes of Mariah Carey, Ed Sheeran, and Robin Thicke, including discussions on what attributes are subject to copyright and how these cases are presented and decided.
SERMA on the web: www.theserma.org
Dr. Hayleigh Bosher Bio
Dr. E. Michael Harrington Bio
SERMA CEO and founder Rich Lenkov is joined by attorney Michael S. Gehrt of Pasich LLP and Professor Tom Baker of the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School to discuss the history of COVID claims affecting the sports & entertainment industry, strategies employed by both claimants and insurers within the claims, and the likely future evolution of COVID claims and decisions.
SERMA on the web: www.theserma.org
SERMA CEO and Founder Rich Lenkov is joined by Geragos & Geragos attorney and Conduct Detrimental podcast host Dan Lust along with IL Representative Kam Buckner and Magna Legal Services' Kevin Grodnick to discuss the accusations between Alabama head coach Nick Saben and Texas A&M head coach Jimbo Fisher, NIL deals, buying players and more.
Watch this episode on Youtube HERE
SERMA on the Web: www.theserma.org
SERMA CEO and Founder Rich Lenkov is joined by Magna Legal Services' Rachel York Colangelo, Ph.D. and KPM Law's Brian Cafritz to discuss the lessons we're learning from the Johnny Depp v. Amber Heard defamation trial. They examine social media and the public’s perception of the case, both parties’ legal strategy, jury selection and more.
Watch THIS EPISODE on YouTube - HERE
SERMA on the Web: www.theserma.org
Join SERMA Board Members Rich Lenkov, Faith Mason and Christian Deputy on the legal ramifications of the slap heard around the world. They discuss potential general liability and workers' compensation exposure for a variety of potential defendants.
Watch THIS PODCAST EPISODE on YouTube - HERE
SERMA on the Web: www.theserma.org