The Heart of Law: Recent Episodes

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Ron Johnson has tried cases to verdict for more than 25 years, including a $74 million wrongful death verdict, one of the largest personal injury verdicts in Kentucky history. He is co-lead counsel for the school districts suing Meta, YouTube, TikTok, and Snap over social media addiction.

In this episode, Mirena and Ron cover how he ended up representing school districts in one of the most closely watched pieces of litigation in the country, what the science currently shows heading into the next bellwether trials, and why he believes money is the single biggest reason plaintiff's attorneys make the wrong call for a client.

Plus: how a defective pain pump case turned into a national mass tort practice, and why Ron keeps coming back to mass torts after swearing off them more than once.

Learn more about Ron Johnson: https://justicestartshere.com/about-us/team/ronald-johnson/

The Heart of Law is hosted by Mirena Umizaj Dumas, Founder and CEO of Mirena and Company, a litigation finance and law firm consulting firm serving plaintiff practices nationwide. https://www.mirenaandco.com/

Podcast production by Bebo Hajec of EMH Group. Strategic Marketing. Without the Agency Overhead. https://www.emhgroup.co

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Rick Meadow has tried over 25 cases to verdict and spent two decades helping build The Lanier Law Firm into one of the most recognized mass tort practices in the country. In 2023, he founded The Meadow Law Firm in Phoenix as one of the first plaintiff-side practices operating as an Arizona Alternative Business Structure.

In this episode, Mirena and Rick cover how the ABS model works in practice, how to evaluate a litigation finance partner, and why the wrong capital can destroy a litigation. They also discuss how defense settlement strategies have shifted, what plaintiff firms should be looking at before getting into a new mass tort, and why social media litigation is attracting so much money right now and why Rick is careful about how much he puts into it.

Plus: how a bartender who quit college ended up at the top of the mass tort bar, and why Rick is now building a firm designed to outlast him.

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Attorney Sara Papantonio joins host Mirena Umizaj Dumas for a candid conversation about what mass tort work truly demands. From long timelines and real risk to the relationships that ultimately determine outcomes, Sara shares how she found her path into mass torts, what it has been like building her own name while working alongside her father, Mike Papantonio, and what she learned stepping into an eight-week talc trial on short notice that resulted in a major plaintiff verdict. They also discuss how firms should think about entering and navigating the mass tort landscape, the importance of understanding the "rules of the game," why diversification matters, and how pressure points across MDL and state court strategies shape outcomes. Throughout the conversation, Sara and Mirena emphasize the role of judgment, partnership, and long-term thinking, as well as how technology and AI are being used to support, not replace, thoughtful legal work. Key Topics Covered: • Why mass torts require a long-term, 7–10 year mindset

• The unwritten rules of the mass tort space and why firms get burned

• How to evaluate risk, partnerships, and involvement level before entering a case

• MDL versus state court strategies and where real pressure is applied

• The value of a fresh perspective in trial storytelling and jury communication

• Recruiting, developing, and retaining young plaintiff-side talent

• Practical ways technology and AI are improving efficiency without replacing judgment About Our Guest: Sara Papantonio is an attorney at Levin Papantonio, where she focuses her practice on mass tort litigation. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Political Science and Journalism from the University of North Carolina and her Juris Doctor from Stetson University College of Law in 2020, graduating cum laude.

Sara litigates pharmaceutical, environmental, mass tort, and personal injury cases nationwide and has significant federal court experience as an active member of multiple mass tort litigation teams. She is currently working on the Camp Lejeune litigation and the Infant Formula MDL.

She is a frequent CLE speaker, including at Mass Torts Made Perfect and Harris Martin Conferences, and is published in legal journals across the country. Sara served as the 2024 President of National Trial Lawyers 40 Under 40 and represents Florida as a Board of Governor for the American Association for Justice. She also serves on the Board of Governors for the Florida Justice Association, including as the 2024 Chair of the Young Lawyers Section.

🔗 Links from the Episode:

• Learn more about Levin Papantonio: https://levinlaw.com

• Connect with Mirena + Strategic Legal Consulting: https://mirenaandco.com

Podcast production by Bebo Hajec of EMH Group Agency-Level Marketing, Without the Overhead | https://www.emhgroup.co

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Houston trial lawyer R. James Amaro joins host Mirena Umizaj Dumas to discuss what it takes to grow and sustain a high-performing personal injury practice. From the BP litigation and its financial fallout to tripling his firm during COVID, James shares the lessons learned from rebuilding under pressure while keeping client advocacy at the center.

They explore:

• Thriving through COVID by doubling down

• Growing to nearly 100 team members and a headquarters bearing his name

• The risks of mass torts and "mass tort PTSD"

• Private equity, AI, and what's ahead for law firm owners

• Building a family through IVF while running a fast-paced firm

• Staying grounded in faith, service, and fiercely protecting clients

A candid conversation about resilience, leadership, and the future of trial work.

About Our Guest:

R. James Amaro is a nationally recognized Houston trial lawyer and the founder of the Amaro Law Firm, which he established in 2005 after beginning his career in insurance defense. Representing victims of the BP refinery explosion in Texas City was an early turning point that set the course for his work. Since then, he has represented thousands of individuals and businesses in personal injury, commercial litigation, and insurance disputes, including major cases following Hurricane Ike and the BP Deepwater Horizon Spill.

James brings experience shaped by engineering and entrepreneurship, along with federal judicial writing during law school. This background helped him build a firm focused on tenacity, efficiency, and client loyalty in the pursuit of just compensation.

Service and community remain central in his life. James and his wife, Angelica, founded the nonprofit Baseball for Babies, which supports initiatives that help families and children. When he's not working for his clients, he is focused on family, faith, and giving back.

Links from the Episode:

Amaro Law Firm: https://amarolawfirm.com/

The Heart of Law on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com

Learn more about Mirena and Company: https://mirenaandco.com

Podcast production by Bebo Hajec of EMH Group Agency-Level Marketing, Without the Overhead | https://www.emhgroup.co

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In this episode of The Heart of Law, host Mirena Umizaj Dumas sits down with Kimball Jones, Managing Partner at Bighorn Law in Las Vegas, to explore what it truly takes to operate at the top of the legal profession.

Kimball shares his extraordinary journey, from humble beginnings and a career in military intelligence to becoming one of the most successful trial lawyers in the country, best known for securing multiple nine-figure verdicts, including a $550 million single-plaintiff win.

Together, they explore: • The mindset and discipline behind courtroom success

• Growth through adversity and lessons from loss

• Balancing family, health, and high-stakes litigation

• What truly separates great trial lawyers from the rest

This conversation offers a rare glimpse into the psychology of a high-performing litigator and the heart behind his relentless pursuit of justice.

Key Takeaways:

• Authenticity wins trials: Genuine connection with juries is everything

• Growth through adversity: How one major loss reshaped Kimball's approach

• Preparation is power: Strategy and discipline drive every major verdict

• Success isn't just money: Fulfillment comes from purpose and legacy

• Family & health matter: Personal strength sustains professional excellence

About Our Guest:

Kimball Jones is Managing Partner at Bighorn Law and one of Nevada's most decorated trial lawyers. A U.S. Army veteran and former intelligence officer, Kimball is known for record-breaking verdicts, including three nine-figure awards in less than a year.

He earned his law degree from BYU Law School, graduating with academic honors, and is driven by a deep sense of purpose in advocating for real people. Outside the courtroom, Kimball is a dedicated husband and father of four.

Links from the Episode:

Learn more about Kimball Jones & Bighorn Law: www.bighornlaw.com

Connect with Mirena and Company: https://mirenaandco.com

Podcast production by Bebo Hajec of EMH Group Agency-Level Marketing, Without the Overhead | https://www.emhgroup.co

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In this episode of The Heart of Law Podcast, host Mirena Umizaj Dumas welcomes back returning guest Lynda Shely, one of the nation’s leading voices on legal ethics and innovation.

A former Chair of the ABA’s Ethics Committee and a current member of Arizona’s Alternative Business Structures (ABS) and AI Steering Committees, Lynda offers rare insight from the front lines of Arizona’s trailblazing regulatory reform.

Back by popular demand, Lynda returns to share the latest developments in Arizona’s ABS model—a topic that continues to spark conversation across the legal industry. She and Mirena revisit Arizona’s groundbreaking elimination of Rule 5.4, which paved the way for non-lawyer ownership of law firms. Together, they explore how the ABS framework has evolved, its current status, and what it signals for the future of legal services nationwide.

Key Takeaways:

• What ABS actually is and why Arizona removed the ban on non-lawyer ownership • Why lawyers and non-lawyers pursue ABS (succession, capital, tech partnerships) • Lessons from 140+ licensed firms and Arizona’s compliance framework • Ethics guardrails and mandatory reporting requirements • Why Arizona prohibits ABS firms from acting as referral mills • Private equity: risks, opportunities, and legacy planning • How Arizona compares to other states like California and Utah • Where generative AI fits in—and what Arizona doesn’t allow

Chapters:

00:00 – Intro & Guest Welcome 02:30 – What Is ABS? 08:10 – Concerns & Safeguards 15:40 – Mass Torts, PE & Compliance 25:45 – Renewals & Firm Growth 34:35 – ABS: What’s Next? 48:30 – Final Thoughts

About Our Guest:

Lynda Shely is a nationally recognized ethics lawyer and a leader in regulatory reform. She has advised hundreds of firms on compliance and professional responsibility issues and continues to serve on Arizona’s ABS and AI Steering Committees.

Links from the Episode:

• Learn more about ABS from Rosing, Pott & Strohbehn: https://rosinglaw.com/services/alternative-business-structure/

• Connect with Mirena & Company: https://mirenaandco.com

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In a world obsessed with the big picture, discover how one consultant's passion for deconstructing complex challenges into smaller, manageable pieces redefines success in the realm of legal consulting and mass tort litigation. Join us for an exceptional episode of the Heart of Law as our experienced host, Mirena Umizaj, sits down with Crystal Utley, founder, and CEO of Bespoke Consulting and Capital, to explore her transformative professional journey from the healthcare industry to spearheading one of the most influential legal administrations in mass torts and personal injury. Together, they explore the intricacies of litigation finance, operational strategies, and the evolving landscape of mass torts to shed light on the innovative solutions driving efficiency and justice in the legal realm.

At the forefront of Bespoke Consulting and Capital, Crystal Utley has carved a distinguished path as an executive with over two decades of experience spanning the health and legal sectors. Beginning her journey as a nurse practitioner, she made a pivotal transition to the legal industry, where she specialized in reviewing complex tobacco cases. In 2010, her expertise garnered even greater recognition when she was entrusted with establishing a medical review team for the 9/11 World Trade Center First Responders settlement. Guided by her leadership, she assembled a team of 60 nurses, created an innovative review platform, instituted stringent processes, and set up a comprehensive quality control system that enabled plaintiff attorneys to effectively settle cases through the special master. Building on this success, Crystal embraced leadership roles to revitalize underperforming teams, eventually guiding her company's mass tort division to unprecedented heights, where she managed over 300 employees. In 2022, Crystal founded Bespoke Consulting and Capital, where she continues to break new ground as the CEO, spearheading fundraising, strategic initiatives, and client development.

As they begin their insightful exchange, Mirena delves into Crystal's profound transition to the legal profession, a decision deeply influenced by her extensive involvement in child abuse cases as a pediatric nurse practitioner. This unique vantage point enabled Crystal to collaborate closely with law enforcement and attorneys, leveraging her medical expertise to elucidate the nature of injuries, thus aiding legal professionals in understanding the complexities of each case. Crystal's enthusiasm for unraveling complex medical conditions for legal purposes ignited her intellectual curiosity, leading her to ponder the broader applications of her skills within the legal sphere. Mirena, intrigued, probes further into what aspects of the legal world captivated Crystal. In response, Crystal reflects on her fascination with deconstructing complex concepts into manageable components, illustrating her systematic approach to understanding and solving problems by operationalizing theoretical concepts into practical actions.

As the dialogue progresses, Mirena delves into the intricacies of the mass torts industry, seeking Crystal's insights on the obstacles and opportunities that define this complex field. In response, Crystal emphasizes the challenges posed by the current state of technology and data handling in the sector, underscoring the industry's urgent need for innovation and improvement to overcome these inherent bottlenecks. Mirena concurs, adding her perspective on the operational struggles within the legal industry, emphasizing how inefficiencies and a lack of evolved business practices significantly impact client retention and litigation outcomes. As the conversation deepens, Mirena steers the discussion toward the foundation of Bespoke Consulting and Capital, prompting Crystal to recount how a pivotal conversation with a colleague, discussing the financial struggles of firms, sparked the idea to leverage her background to facilitate change. Crystal further highlights that the essence of Bespoke's achievements isn't merely the financial resources they've garnered but, more significantly, the team she's built. Echoing Crystal's sentiment, Mirena acknowledges the paramount importance of team dynamics, reinforcing the belief that while achieving success is rewarding, the journey with like-minded individuals is invaluable.

As the conversation wraps up, Mirena shifts the focus to Crystal, inquiring about Bespoke's business model and ideal client profile. Crystal explains that their ideal client is "someone we can help, who seeks more than just financial assistance but a partnership." She highlights Bespoke's commitment to crafting tailored solutions through detailed analysis, focusing on the significance of supporting back-office operations for growth and success. Crystal notes that while they prefer early-stage firms, they are open to firms at any stage, whether they're just starting, expanding, or facing challenges. Thus, as the episode ends, she leaves listeners with a motivating thought, declaring that the "sky is the limit" for anyone ready to contribute to this challenging yet rewarding field, stressing the need for innovative solutions beyond legal expertise to foster justice and support.

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How does the heart of a retired judge continue to impact the legal profession through alternative means? In this thought-provoking episode of The Heart of Law, join our perceptive host, Mirena Umizaj, as she welcomes the Honorable Judge Randa Trapp to explore her inspiring transition from the San Diego Superior Court to her new role as a neutral with Judicial Arbitration and Mediation Services (JAMS). Together, they discuss the importance of diversity in the legal sector and the transformative power of victim narratives in forging a more personalized path toward justice and healing.

From the disciplined decks of the U.S. Navy to the esteemed bench of the San Diego County Superior Court, Judge Randa Trapp's career epitomizes a journey of resilience, dedication, and unparalleled service. As an alumna of San Jose State University and a respected veteran of the U.S. Navy, her formative experiences laid a robust foundation for her illustrious legal career. This relentless dedication propelled her into a prestigious role as an Adjunct Professor of Law at the University of San Diego School of Law, where she spent nearly two decades mentoring the future generation of legal professionals. Subsequently, her appointment to the San Diego County Superior Court by Governor Gray Davis in 2003 marked a significant milestone in her career, as she became the third-ever African American female judge to grace the bench of the third-largest court in the United States. Following her retirement in March 2021, Judge Randa Trapp continues to influence the legal landscape through her work with JAMS, the largest private provider of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) services worldwide.

As the episode unfolds, Judge Randa Trapp takes a moment to reflect on her circuitous professional journey, emphasizing that her path to the legal sector was anything but linear. Starting her adult life in the tumultuous sixties without professional role models to guide her, she embarked on her undergraduate studies with aspirations of becoming a pharmacist. However, her career trajectory underwent a significant transformation when she paused her academic pursuits to serve in the Navy, an experience she acknowledges as pivotal in shaping her personal development and igniting her passion to effect positive change in the world. Motivated by this newfound purpose, she transitioned to studying political science and eventually made her way to Georgetown University Law Center. Embracing her journey's unique twists and turns, she often shares her story to inspire young individuals contemplating a future in law, emphasizing the importance of keeping an open mind because "the law is multifaceted."

As the conversation deepens, Mirena probes into Judge Randa Trapp's tenure as a judge, leading her to reflect on this period as a defining highlight of her career. She fondly recalls the tradition of starting every jury trial with a flag ceremony to instill reverence and set the tone for the justice process that lay ahead. Shifting the discussion toward diversity within the legal sector, Mirena explores Judge Randa Trapp's commitment to promoting inclusivity within African American and broader minority communities. Judge Randa Trapp elaborates on her active engagement in these communities, emphasizing its significance in enabling young children of color to envision themselves in similar roles of influence, thereby nurturing their aspirations and dreams. Furthermore, she underscores the importance of establishing a judiciary diverse in gender, sexual orientation, and ethnicity to represent the community the court intends to serve authentically.

As their conversation draws to a close, Mirena delves into Judge Randa Trapp's seamless transition to JAMS, where her unwavering commitment to justice takes on a new form in the complex field of mass torts. Through her role, she offers a unique platform for victims to share their stories, often for the first time, facilitating a healing process that transcends monetary compensation. Building on this foundation, Judge Randa Trapp further highlights the essential role of mass torts in securing justice for a multitude of aggrieved individuals. She emphasizes that it takes a "special kind of lawyer" to navigate this complex area, underscoring the importance of assembling the right team to ensure that each case receives the attention and advocacy it rightfully deserves. In this vein, Judge Randa Trapp's unwavering dedication to meaningful impact, underscores a deep commitment to justice and healing, cementing her as an indispensable figure in the legal community and the individuals she serves.

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Have you ever wondered how a legal luminary deftly maneuvers the intricate intersections of law, policy, and diversity? Buckle up for an exciting episode of the Heart of Law as our seasoned host, Mirena Umizaj takes you on a ride through the professional journey of Attorney Marlon Kimpson, a member of Motley Rice LLC, who much like a skilled driver, knows that "when you've got gas in the tank, you push the pedal." Experience the thrill of exploring Marlon Kimpson's significant litigation experiences as he offers valuable insights into his role as a state senator and the importance of maintaining a diverse legal practice.

As a prominent member of Motley Rice LLC, Marlon Kimpson's practice encompasses a diverse range of legal areas, including aviation, consumer fraud protection, personal injury, wrongful death, securities litigation, technology, and media transportation. Notably, his impactful contributions extend to the realm of opioid litigation, where he played a pivotal role in securing an impressive $500 million for the state of South Carolina. Beyond the courtroom, Marlon Kimpson has a rich history in public service, having dedicated nearly a decade to representing the citizens of Charleston and Dorchester counties as the former South Carolina state senator for District 42. Recognizing his impactful advocacy, President Biden appointed him to the White House Advisory Committee for Trade Policy and Negotiations in 2023. With a passion for impactful giving, Marlon Kimpson describes himself as "all of that & a bag of chips," actively contributing to his family, law firm, community, state, and the country.

In an engaging opening to their conversation, Mirena dives straight into the heart of Marlon Kimpson's relentless drive, asking, "How do you fill-up the tank?" With a reflective tone, Kimpson traces the roots of his tenacity to his transformative years at Morehouse College, where the inspiring words of African American orators and the camaraderie of a strong brotherhood deeply ingrained in him the ethos to strive for excellence in every pursuit relentlessly. His journey continued with a detour into banking after an initial setback in law school admissions due to LSAT scores, a pivotal period that reinforced his belief in finding one's true calling. This realization propelled him back to his legal aspirations, leading to a federal clerkship with the first African American judge in South Carolina, Matthew J. Perry, and eventually to a defining summer clerkship with a major defense firm, paving the way for his successful legal career at Motley Rice LLC.

As Marlon Kimpson reflects on his experience at Motley Rice LLC, he details how it marked a significant chapter in his career, where he initially 'cut his teeth' on complex asbestos cases, advocating for those affected by industrial negligence. As his expertise grew, he shifted his focus to aviation litigation post-9/11, where he addressed global safety concerns and their impact on marginalized communities. His diverse legal skills were further demonstrated through his involvement in securing a historic $800 million settlement in the Twitter securities litigation. Further reflecting on the firm's progression, Marlon Kimpson underscores the importance of diversity in legal practice, viewing it not just as a facet of inclusivity but as a crucial strategic asset in understanding and representing diverse client experiences.

As their conversation transitions, Mirena engages Marlon Kimpson in a discussion about his impactful tenure as a state senator, urging him to delve into pivotal moments, including his instrumental role in co-authoring the Body Camera Act following the tragic Walter Scott shooting. Furthermore, their dialogue extends to his recent presidential appointment, where he continues interweaving his legal expertise with his dedication to public service and societal advancement. As their conversation nears its close, they touch upon the delicate balance between work and personal life, with Marlon Kimpson emphasizing the importance of diversifying one's personal life, adhering to the principle of "not putting all one's eggs in one basket"—a guiding philosophy that he strives to impart to his children. With an eye on the future, he plans to explore various opportunities, ranging from potential business ventures to writing and speaking engagements. Yet, Marlon Kimpson's determination remains unwavering as he expresses his desire to continue at full throttle, savoring the rich interplay between his law practice, involvement in politics, and the well-being of his children.

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What drives a legal team to succeed against all odds in high-stakes mass tort litigation? In this captivating episode of The Heart of Law, join our intrepid host, Mirena Umizaj, as she welcomes Attorney Jennifer A. Moore, the founder of Moore Law Group PLLC, to explore her transformative journey from personal injury law to the forefront of mass tort litigation. Embark on an exploration of resilience and justice as Attorney Jennifer A. Moore shares her pivotal role in the landmark Monsanto trial, a victory that not only shaped her career but also underscored her commitment to accountability in major legal battles, including the ongoing Zantac litigation.

At the helm of Moore Law Group, PLLC, Jennifer A. Moore has earned a distinguished reputation for her unwavering advocacy on behalf of individuals nationwide suffering from injuries caused by defective products, medical malpractice, and motor vehicle accidents. With a legal career spanning over two decades, Jennifer A. Moore's record of securing numerous multi-million-dollar verdicts and settlements has cemented her status as a formidable figure in class and complex litigation. Her dedication to justice was resoundingly demonstrated by successfully trying the only federal court case involving Roundup weedkiller, which resulted in an $80 million verdict against Monsanto and led to settlements exceeding $10 billion for thousands of victims. Beyond her legal achievements, Jennifer A. Moore's leadership extends to empowering future female leaders through her work with Emerge Kentucky. As its founder and past board chair, she has played a crucial role in training over 250 women, 42 of whom are currently serving in office.

As the dialogue unfolds, Mirena delves into Jennifer A. Moore's early inspiration to become a lawyer, a spark ignited during her elementary school years by her aunt's legal journey and the historic appointment of Sandra Day O'Connor to the Supreme Court. Her early fascination with law matured into a steadfast commitment, guiding her through law school and subsequently to a judicial clerkship with the Sixth Circuit, an enriching experience she recommends every law student undertake. As the conversation deepens, Mirena inquiries about the pathway to success in mass tort litigation, prompting Jennifer A. Moore to emphasize the importance of pursuing a career "doing something you love." She candidly discusses her personal commitment to representing cancer victims, a path shaped by her own experiences and fueled by an earnest desire to seek accountability from those responsible. Her dedication to this cause, deeply intertwined with her professional ethos, exemplifies the powerful impact of aligning personal values with legal practice.

Shifting focus, Mirena touches upon a seminal moment in Jennifer A. Moore's career: the trial against Monsanto, a case that not only marked a significant victory for her clients but also profoundly altered the trajectory of her career. Jennifer A. Moore reflects on the trial's intensity, paralleling it with her childhood experiences of riding horses with her grandfather, who instilled in her the tenacity to rise after every fall and to not let fear be apparent. This lesson became pivotal in her legal approach, especially in front of a jury, where she learned the importance of exuding confidence, understanding that just like a horse, a jury can sense fear. Moreover, Mirena inquiries about the evolving landscape of mass torts, highlighting the dual impacts of digital advertising and private equity in the sector. In response, Jennifer A. Moore stresses the importance of thorough due diligence, consistent and effective client communication, and cultivating professional relationships, outlining these as key strategies for adeptly navigating the terrain.

As their conversation draws to a close, the focus shifts to the recent Zantac litigation, where Jennifer A. Moore provides an update on the significant advancements and challenges. She details the dismissal of cases in the MDL and their ongoing appeal in the 11th circuit, expressing frustration over the court's handling of scientific evidence. Her commitment to her work is unmistakably clear as she discusses working through the holiday season to meet key deadlines. This dedication is part of her preparation for a challenging year ahead, including multiple trials in California and a Daubert hearing in Delaware, exemplifying her relentless pursuit of justice and unwavering commitment to her clients.

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In a world where paths often seem predetermined, brace yourself to unravel the awe-inspiring narrative of a man who transformed a 105-year prison sentence into a Harvard fellowship. Join us for an exceptionally empowering episode of the Heart of Law as our distinguished host, Mirena Umizaj, introduces Andre Norman, a revolutionary transformational speaker, strategist, and consultant transforming correctional systems globally, motivating individuals and organizations to embrace resilience and achieve unparalleled success. Through a candid exploration of trauma, resilience, and untapped potential, this episode peels back the layers of societal challenges, revealing the heart and consciousness of humanity.

From the confines of prison walls to the prestigious halls of Harvard, Andre Norman's journey epitomizes the power of resilience and personal transformation. Internationally renowned as a motivational speaker, Andre not only shares his remarkable story but enriches every engagement with a dynamic blend of inspiration, innovation, and personal growth. Collaborating with esteemed institutions like the London Business School and influential networks such as the Young Presidents Organization, Andre has become a trusted advisor and speaker. His dynamic presentations, rooted in personal experiences, captivate audiences globally, empowering them to surmount obstacles and unlock boundless potential. With a global influence extending to countries such as Honduras and Sweden, Andre's profound impact on correctional systems and ability to inspire individual transformation are unmatched. Whether guiding executives, mentoring emerging entrepreneurs, or illuminating global stages, Andre Norman's indelible presence fosters enduring empowerment.

As the conversation unfolds, Andre openly shares his tumultuous journey from a troubled upbringing in Boston, triumphing over domestic violence, to overcoming the bussing crisis of the '70s. His path, riddled with challenges from being a sixth-grade drug runner to enduring a daunting prison sentence, reflects a remarkable transformation fueled by resilience. Determined to break free, he set a goal, earned his GED, became a jailhouse lawyer, and ultimately secured a prestigious fellowship at Harvard Law School in 2017. With an intimate understanding of the flaws within prison and school systems, Andre passionately advocates for change, emphasizing the transformative power of firsthand experiences in driving reform. Over the past 24 years, he has immersed himself in the lives of inmates, forging profound connections by authentically sharing in their pain. In addressing systemic issues, Andre underscores the urgency of comprehensive reforms, urging stakeholders to invite experienced voices to articulate viable solutions.

As the conversation delves into the heart of reform, Mirena and Andre uncover a profound truth: the remedy for a broken prison system does not lie within its walls but finds its roots in the earliest stages of societal development, notably, kindergarten. He passionately refutes the notion that certain children, even those from affluent families, are exempt from the harsh realities of life. His poignant message to parents resounds – "Don't believe your kids don't count." Reflecting on his personal path, he underscores the impossibility of growing up without a dream. For Andre, the core of change resides in helping individuals, irrespective of background, discover and resolve their pain, fostering a collective responsibility toward rehabilitation that begins long before one encounters the criminal justice system.

As the episode comes to a close, Andre confronts the stark realities of a broken prison system, highlighting the pressing need to address the operation's severe understaffing and the unsafe conditions that act as a mere "warehouse" for individuals. The conversation takes a poignant turn, highlighting the crucial role of cultural communication as a vital bridge for healing the rift between staff and inmates. He emphasizes the profound lack of trust among inmates, whose "wounds run as deep as the ocean." With a committed goal to guide individuals towards becoming the best versions of themselves, Andre passionately announces his upcoming seminar event in December, a beacon of hope for those seeking transformation. In the final moments, Andre leaves us with a somber reminder of life's fragility, encapsulated in the heartrending tale of a young soul lost. In a resounding final plea, Andre implores: "Don't judge the help, just accept the help."

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Step into the dynamic realm of litigation finance, where the heartbeat of law intersects with financial ingenuity. In this revealing episode of "The Heart of Law," our adept host, Mirena Umizaj, collaborates with expert strategist Jacob Cantrell, Co-founder, and Chief Risk Officer of Rocade Capital, to explore the intricacies of strategic legal financing. Drawing from their respective expertise, they clarify misconceptions surrounding litigation financing, explore optimal client structures, and distinguish between various business models in the legal sector.

With over 17 years of experience in financial services and the energy trading market, Jacob Cantrell has left an indelible mark on the industries he's been a part of. Having served in key executive positions at the Commission Exchange and EDF Trading, he has consistently been at the forefront of innovative strategies, particularly developing new asset classes in deregulated power and gas markets. Moreover, Jacob Cantrell has served as the vice president of the Community National Bank in Texas, where he spearheaded the creation of a loan review department and collaborated closely with the board to maintain outstanding asset quality. Guided by his visionary leadership, Rocade Capital has achieved remarkable growth, managing asset quality risks, optimizing returns, and providing an impressive $900M+ in funding since 2014 to law firms pursuing complex litigation growth capital.

As the conversation unfolds, Jacob Cantrell presents an encompassing view of litigation finance, from conventional commercial litigation finance to loans tailored specifically for law firms. Intrigued by his expertise, Mirena delves deeper into Jacob's transition from a community-focused banking role to navigating the intricacies of energy trading. However, it wasn't until he encountered litigation finance that he discovered the "missing piece" that enabled him to effectively merge his skills with his deep-rooted desire to assist individuals in accessing justice. Prompted by Mirena's curiosity about potential misunderstandings, Jacob addresses the prevailing misconceptions surrounding litigation finance and underscores the critical role of trust between capital providers and law firms. He candidly points out that while barriers to entry are low, true long-term success demands a deep understanding of the law firm's operations, from case acquisition to settlement processes, fostering genuine partnerships where both parties prosper mutually.

Drawing from his experience, Jacob sheds light on Rocade Capital's flexible loan structure, emphasizing a commitment to backing law firms embodying a growth mindset, client focus, and a data-driven approach. For him, it's not merely about amassing cases; it's about law firms envisioning leadership roles within their legal sector, fueled by strategic investments in their people, processes, and technology. Mirena extends the dialogue by discussing the evolving business mindset within the legal profession, noting the challenges firms face in predicting their performance. She emphasizes the transformative impact of litigation finance in addressing "growth pains" and enabling firms to sustain and predict their trajectory. Concurrently, Jacob underscores its pivotal role in ensuring access to justice for the average American, allowing law firms to take on cases without upfront costs and challenging the notion that legal representation is exclusively for those who emerge victorious.

The conversation effortlessly transitions into the details of litigation finance, encompassing liability assessment, diverse evaluation processes, and various business models. Elaborating on this, Mirena presents the concept of a sustainable business model, prompting law firms to measure their value proposition against the overarching goals of the legal industry. Moreover, as the conversation comes to a close, the focus shifts to the emerging equity structures and evolving landscape in Arizona, where Mirena and Jacob express a cautious yet observant stance, recognizing the potential for a more robust equity structure that incorporates legal and financial aspects.

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In a world where the intricacies of our legal system intersect with the heart-wrenching struggles of society's most vulnerable, emerges a remarkable individual whose unwavering dedication knows no bounds. Join us for an exceptionally heartfelt episode of the Heart of Law as our compassionate host, Mirena Umizaj introduces us to prominent Attorney Steve New, a founding member of Stephen New & Associates. Together, they embark on a poignant exploration to uncover the raw realities behind society's two profound wounds: the heart-rending cases of Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS) and the harrowing conditions within our prison system.

At the heart of today's episode stands a legal luminary who has been a cherished friend of our host, Mirena Umizaj, for more than a decade. With a remarkable career spanning 25 years, Attorney Steve New has championed justice in various legal domains, from catastrophic and wrongful death cases to mass environmental damage and employment discrimination. However, what truly sets him apart is his fearless pursuit of justice in civil rights litigation, confronting the government and state of West Virginia to expose inhumane prison conditions while passionately advocating for babies born with NAS, a cause close to his heart since 2018. His unwavering commitment to these endeavors is exemplified by his impressive track record, having tried over 60 cases to jury verdict and making 8 appearances before the West Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals.

As Mirena and Attorney Steve New embark on their enlightening conversation, the harsh realities of West Virginia's battle with the opioid epidemic come to the forefront, revealing the innocent victims caught in the crossfire. With heartfelt passion, Attorney Steve New reflects on his experience representing NAS cases, powerfully emphasizing, "There is no more innocent victim in this than addicted babies." Within this contemplation, he eloquently sheds light on the intricate challenges in substantiating these highly specialized cases and addresses the heart-wrenching scarcity of support for afflicted families. As the conversation deepens, Attorney Steve New provides insights into the recent proceedings, maintaining an unwavering hope for the appeal despite the disheartening ruling by the West Virginia Mass Litigation Panel, firmly believing that "no cause is truly lost" as he knows that ultimately, "some court is going to hear the voices of these children and care."

Transitioning the conversation, Mirena prompts Attorney Steve New to delve into the origins of his involvement in the Southern Regional Jail cases in West Virginia. He shares that his profound connection with these cases began in early 2022, ignited by the impactful stories he came across, with the tragic case of Quantez Burks standing out prominently among them. Deeply appalled by the systemic issues at hand, Attorney Steve New, alongside his dedicated team, embarked on a relentless mission for justice, filing a lawsuit and subsequently pursuing a class certification on behalf of an astonishing 17,000 inmates. Their work is a testament to the pervasive challenges of overcrowding, understaffing, and deferred maintenance within West Virginia's correctional system, symbolizing a collective effort to rectify these injustices and provide relief for countless individuals who have suffered in silence.

As the conversation concludes, Attorney Steve New unveils his broader vision to Mirena, reaching beyond West Virginia to ignite a nationwide movement for prison reform with the hope of "turning the tide" on harsh conditions and inspiring a change in public sentiment. He emphasizes that the key to achieving this lies in sharing the stories of those affected and fostering collaboration among like-minded individuals and groups. With eager anticipation for the forthcoming October class certification hearing, Mirena extends a heartfelt invitation to all who resonate with the cause to step forward and actively participate in the conversation, ensuring that the vision for change continues to grow.

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What intriguing connection bridges the role of a meticulous "trash man" and that of one of the nation's most esteemed figures in the MSA industry? Join us as we delve into this captivating parallel, where Attorney John Cattie Jr., the managing member of Cattie and Gonzalez P LLC, expertly sweeps through the complexities of lien resolution within mass tort cases, ensuring the stage is impeccably set for maximum compensation. In this enlightening episode of The Heart of Law, our sage host Mirena Umizaj engages in a compelling conversation with Attorney John Cattie Jr, delving into the intricate process of untangling liens within the context of the Camp Lejeune litigation. From addressing liens' impact on settlement proceeds to a thorough discussion on potential waiver and offset scenarios, their dialogue reveals the strategic prowess required for successful lien resolution.

At the forefront of Cattie and Gonzalez PLLC, Attorney John Cattie Jr. leads a career devoted to deciphering healthcare complexities, optimizing settlements, and securing future Medicare and Medicaid benefits. Tracing his roots back to Garrison Resolution Group in 2008, he swiftly recognized a pressing need among clients for legal insights into Medicare set-asides. Building upon this foundation, Attorney John Cattie Jr. launched his own practice in 2016 and has since established himself as a transformative force in the field. Today, he collaborates seamlessly with clients on singular and master cases, achieving unmatched outcomes in lien resolution nationwide. Beyond safeguarding Medicare and Medicaid benefits, his strategic insight has not only ensured his clients' success but has also garnered him accolades from multiple federal and state courts.

As Mirena and Attorney John Cattie Jr. delve into their insightful exchange, the nuanced layers of lien resolution within the Camp Lejeune litigation are distinctly brought to light. While liens are ubiquitous in bodily injury claims, Attorney John Cattie Jr. highlights the unique challenges associated with the Camp Lejeune case, specifically regarding healthcare reimbursements. With a touch of humor, he likens navigating these complexities to managing a "big ball of trash," highlighting his role as a legal clean-up specialist. Venturing further into the subject, Mirena probes into the intricacies surrounding government waivers as Attorney John Cattie Jr. illuminates the far-reaching implications of the Camp Lejeune Act. While acknowledging the best-case scenario of a full waver, he accentuates the imperative for meticulous due diligence. With a word of caution against the perils of "flying blind," he stresses the urgency of weighing all potential scenarios, especially those with repercussions for future Medicare and Medicaid benefits.

As their conversation concludes, attention is riveted to the multifaceted world of lien resolution, an arena where Attorney John Cattie Jr. has carved a niche over the past 15 years. He nostalgically recalls the nascent challenges surrounding Medicare coverage, hinting at the nuanced difficulties that linger. Founded in 2016, his firm stands as a testament to his unwavering commitment to championing the rights of injury victims post-settlement, ensuring they retain unimpeded access to Medicare and Medicaid benefits. Notably, he underscores the value proposition offered by his website https://camplejeunelienresolution.com/, where users can access recent case updates, litigation statuses, and biannually updated lien resolution insights. Beyond this digital platform, his firm, bolstered by a team of 22 adept professionals, showcases the profound advantages of outsourcing lien resolution to augment both efficacy and profitability for personal injury attorneys. For legal practitioners threading this complex domain, Attorney John Cattie Jr. charts an enlightened trajectory, emphasizing the power of collaboration, proactive management, and continual learning.

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Prepare to venture into the uncharted territory of Arizona's legal landscape, where the rulebook is being reshaped, and the status quo is bravely defied. In this transformative episode of The Heart of Law, our astute host, Mirena Umizaj, invites Ethics Attorney Lynda Shely, the esteemed founder of The Shely Firm, to shed light on the intricacies of the Arizona Business Structure (ABS) program and its groundbreaking 2021 rule changes. Together they discuss the elimination of Ethics Rule 5.4 and how it has acted as a powerful catalyst, propelling Arizona lawyers to forge collaborative partnerships with non-lawyers, igniting a new era of innovation and opportunity in the legal landscape.

With an impressive private practice spanning over two decades, Attorney Lynda Shely has consistently delivered exemplary representation to numerous law firms while also providing invaluable ethics advice to over 2,000 firms nationwide. However, her influence extends far beyond her thriving practice. With pivotal roles in prominent committees and organizations, including the Arizona Supreme Court's Alternative Business Structure (ABS) Committee, Attorney Lynda Shely stands at the vanguard of the ABS program's development and implementation, driving the advancement of innovative approaches to legal practice.

As the episode unfolds, Attorney Lynda Shely takes a moment to reflect on her personal journey to becoming an ethics attorney, navigating the delicate balance of career and motherhood while raising her three children. Her story serves as a testament to the determination and resilience required to carve a path in the legal profession. Reflecting on her experiences, Attorney Lynda Shely unveils her instrumental role in spearheading the groundbreaking initiative that allows Arizona lawyers to establish law firms with non-lawyers as owners or investors. Addressing misconceptions, she acknowledges lawyers' concerns about potential conflicts of interest. However, she assures listeners that the Arizona ABS program is designed to maintain integrity by safeguarding lawyers' control over legal decisions. She sheds light on the rigorous regulations and meticulous approval process that enable non-lawyers to hold ownership stakes in law firms while respecting the professional autonomy of lawyers in client representation and case selection.

As the conversation progresses, the focus shifts to the intriguing realm of mass torts and its intersection with Wall Street. With artful emphasis, Mirena highlights the profound significance of this intersection, succinctly stating, "this is where the rubber meets the road." Her words resonate as Wall Street ventures into the domain of mass torts, actively investing in law firms through financial loans, seamlessly integrating themselves into the very fabric of the debt structure. In parallel, Mirena and Attorney Lynda Shely explore the ever-evolving landscape of technological advancements, honing in on the transformative impact of chat GPT and its wide-ranging implications for the legal field.

As the final moments of the episode unfold, the spotlight shifts toward the legal landscape in Utah, where uncertainty looms over the issue of non-lawyer ownership. Mirena's mention of Utah's shifting stance from considering partnerships to potential felony charges raises eyebrows and prompts reflection. In response, Attorney Lynda Shely expresses her disappointment in these attempts to restrict innovation and courageously advocates for the embracing of change. She acknowledges that "change is scary,", particularly in the legal profession, where risk aversion often prevails. However, she reminds us that it is precisely this embrace of change that propels progress and allows the legal profession to adapt and better serve its clients.

QUOTABLE QUOTES:

1. "I represent firms in every practice area. So, I have to understand the ethics rules, but not necessarily have very detailed knowledge of a specific practice area like mass torts or estate planning or tax."
2. "The Arizona Supreme Court created a task force on the future of the profession to look at a couple of issues, not just access to justice, which we all know there is a huge gap in getting legal services to people who need it, but simply informing folks that they might have a legal issue and how to get legal services."
3. "Some of us who are ethics lawyers looked at the rules, and one of the rules that they were reviewing was Ethics Rule 5.4, which is the rule that prohibits lawyers from both sharing legal fees with non-lawyers and having a partner who's a non-lawyer. In Arizona, our task force looked at the rule and really kind of looked at what else was going on in the whole world, not just the US. And they looked at the fact that the UK has had these alternative business structure law firms, and an ABS is simply a law firm that has some non-lawyer owners."
4. "The UK has had ABS law firms for years, and so has Australia, and they've been able to demonstrate that, look, this provides capitalization to firms, which frequently lawyers are not good at finding capitalization for their firms. It also provides incentives to key paraprofessionals because we all have issues with trying to maintain our staff and keep quality people."
5. "The number one misperception about Arizona's program is that it permits non-lawyers to practice law, and that's not true. The other, and I would say this is a legitimate concern, lawyers express concern, oh if we're going to have non-lawyer partners, all they're going to be interested in is the bottom line, and they're going to tell me I shouldn't take depositions because they're too expensive... I get that. And that's a very legitimate concern."
6. "Arizona's ABS program is designed to hopefully prevent non-lawyers from controlling the legal decisions that lawyers make. The ABS regulations are very detailed in saying, you know, non-lawyers, you can own a hundred percent of an Arizona law firm that we approve. It has to go through the ABS committee, and you have to get all the non-lawyers, including all the companies, approved by the ABS committee. You can own 100% of the firm, but you cannot direct the legal representation of clients or even which clients the firm will represent."
7. "The ABS program actually is more transparent than the existing litigation funding in other states because where you have a law firm in someplace else that borrows money to be able to pay for all of the advertising that they have to do and all the expert witnesses, in the ABS program, you know exactly who's involved with that lawyer because it has to be disclosed in the application. So I would say that the ABS law firm process is much more transparent than regular litigation funding."
8. "The ABS application journey, I guess, starts with a lawyer considering that they want to partner with a non-lawyer. And I tell everybody on both sides… do your homework. It's just like being engaged. You don't get engaged overnight. First, you date somebody for a while, and you figure out if your values are compatible... Same thing in a law firm; before you bring a partner on, you do some due diligence, same thing in the ABS process."
9. "The ABS applications are very detailed. They require disclosing every person or company that will have a 10% or greater ownership or economic interest in the firm. So, it's kind of a proactive approach to saying before you create this law firm, tell us that you know what you have to have in place."
10. "I think the ABS process and the regulations are far better at assuring that the people who are involved in these law firms understand they have an obligation here to serve clients. This is not just about the bottom line; it's a for-profit firm. So yes, you can make profits, but it is about representing the clients."
11. "Change is scary. I recognize the concern but number one; you're not going to have Wall Street buying up, gobbling up every law firm in Arizona. That's just not gonna happen. Number two, you don't have to participate in this. I have a law firm in Arizona. It's not an ABS."
12. "I appreciate that change in the legal profession is glacial because lawyers are resistant to risk and change, which is good."
13. "I don't think Chat GPT is going to eliminate lawyers. I think it probably will help lawyers be more efficient. It's kind of like a giant form file that large firms all have. So I don't see technology eliminating us."
14. "I think you're gonna have a lot of main street lawyers still in, in small firms, solo shops. And that's wonderful. But you also might have Wall Street investing in that small, small town sole practitioner and allow them to maybe update their technology and make their services even more efficient, more affordable."
15. "I think law firms might pretend that they weren't for profit. They want to say we're a profession, and we are, but every firm is for profit unless they are officially a nonprofit, and more firms should consult with somebody like you because I'm not teasing when I say lawyers are bad at finance."
16. "By permitting Wall Street to be able to invest in a firm, you actually are expanding access to justice and access to legal services because you might then be able to fund a lawyer who's a small-town lawyer who's great expertise and has a compassionate heart and is great with clients, but they can afford a national ad campaign, can't afford ten years of litigation against a huge corporation and hiring all the experts that are needed. "
17. "We're years and years into mass torts, and it costs a fortune to do this. And so the consumer who has a possible claim, number one, might not even know it. So that's what a lot of this is. It's educating consumers about their recourse. And then number two, having the finance to be able to front all this money because mass tort lawyers don't charge their clients the cost upfront; they front all that money."
18. "My personal view is I'm sad to hear that lawyers who are frightened by the change are trying to go to the legislature and restrict change. I think it's shortsighted. I think it hurts the profession, and it hurts consumers, and shame on them for being afraid to let Utah have their sandbox, their pilot project."
19. "I think Arizona's BS program is being so careful. I would say if anything, we overregulate the law firms that are being approved by requiring so much disclosure and so much looking behind the curtain to see who's actually controlling everything."
20. "Everybody who is a licensed A BS law firm in Arizona is a representative of the program. So it's to everybody's benefit that we approve firms that are trying to comply with the regulatory objectives and that everybody abides by the rules because you're right. We want to show this is; this is an opportunity for lawyers; this isn't being done to lawyers."

EPISODE SURVEY:

[00:02:15] - [00:04:25] Navigating the Intersection of Ethics and Law: Lynda Shely's Journey as an Ethics Attorney

[00:04:59]- [00:09:43] Revolutionizing Legal Partnerships: Eliminating Rule 5.4 and Embracing Non-Lawyer Ownership

[00:11:54] - [00:16:48] Balancing Transparency and Control in Mass Tort Partnerships: The Role of Wall Street and the ABS Program

[00:16:50] - [00:27:03] Examining the Path to Partnership: The Process of Establishing an ABS Law Firm

[00:27:08] - [00:39:16] Embracing Opportunities and Addressing Concerns: Navigating ABS Partnerships with Confidence

[00:39:19] - [00:47:50] Future Predictions: Law Firms, Wall Street, and the Role of Legal Technology

[00:47:53] - [00:52:06] Utah's Bold Steps: Embracing Change and Expanding Legal Services

ABOUT OUR GUEST:

● Founder of The Shelly Firm in Scottsdale, Arizona

● Currently serves on the Arizona Supreme Court's Alternative Business Structure, ABS Committee.

● 2020-2023 Chair of the ABA Standing Committee on Ethics and Professional Responsibility.

● Serves as an Arizona delegate in the ABA House of Delegates

● An active member of the State Bar of Arizona Ethics Advisory Group

● President of the National ABS Law Firm Association

● Past Director of Lawyer Ethics for the State Bar of Arizona for ten years

● Past president of the Association of Professional Responsibility Lawyers and the Scottsdale Bar Association.

● Recipient of numerous awards, including the 2007 State Bar of Arizona Member of the Year award and the 2022 Maricopa County Bar Association Member of the Year Award.

● Has served as an adjunct professor at all Arizona law schools, teaching professional responsibility

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Join host, Mirena Umizaj, in the latest episode of The Heart of Law podcast as she delves into the world of modern law firms and their innovative approaches to delivering superior client service.

In this captivating episode, Mirena interviews Sam Tabibian and Sahm Manouchehri, partners at Lyfe Law in Los Angeles, CA, who are widely recognized as leaders in the industry. They share how embracing cutting-edge technology has enhanced efficiency and revolutionized the legal process.

With their firm's motto of "Better technology improves efficiency" Sam and Sahm have been at the forefront of leveraging innovative tools and strategies to provide their clients with exceptional service. Mirena and her guests take a deep dive into Lyfe Law's journey, starting from their founding as Century Park Law Group in 2013. They share transformative decision to rebrand, enabling them better to express their identity as a forward-thinking law firm. By prioritizing quality over size, Lyfe Law has differentiated itself in the competitive Los Angeles market and positioned itself as a trusted partner for clients facing legal challenges.

Sam and Sahm provide valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing law firms today. The episode sheds light on the distinct differences between West Coast and East Coast law firms in terms of structure, culture, branding, and consumer connection. Mirena asks questions about the fascinating world of artificial intelligence (AI) and its impact on the legal field having both exciting possibilities and challenges that AI presents for the future of law.

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Episode #3.2: The Heart of Law With Attorney Ed Bell

Are you ready to uncover the truth behind one of the most significant and complex cases of our time? Join our intrepid host, Mirena Umizaj, in a powerful and poignant episode of The Heart of Law, as she invites Attorney Ed Bell, the founder and senior partner at Bell Legal Group, to explore the unwavering dedication of Attorney Ed Bell and his team to pass the Camp Lejeune Justice Act and provide justice for the hundreds of thousands of victims impacted by the catastrophic contamination that occurred at Camp Lejeune.

​​With a career spanning over 30 years, Attorney Ed Bell is widely regarded as one of the best trial lawyers in the country today. But what sets him apart from the rest? Well, according to Mirena Umizaj, he's a "unicorn" in the legal world! Not only is he a top civil litigator in complex litigation, but he's also a successful business owner, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. And it's not just his impressive credentials that make him stand out. Attorney Ed Bell's unwavering commitment to seeking justice and advocating for his clients is truly remarkable, as evidenced by his tireless efforts in the Camp Lejeune water contamination case spanning over a decade and a half. As Mirena and Attorney Ed Bell delve deeper into the intricate details of the case, their conversation takes on a sense of urgency, punctuated by the gravity of the recent developments and hearing that served as a stark reminder that time is of the essence.

Navigating through the complexities of this case is no small feat, as the overwhelming volume of claims creates a formidable challenge for the government to manage effectively. Sensing the court's ardent desire to fast-track the proceedings, Attorney Ed Bell ingeniously proposes the implementation of bellwether trials–an innovative approach that not only expedites the legal process but also provides both sides with a valuable opportunity to test their theories, present their arguments, and ultimately determine the value of the case at hand. As Attorney Ed Bell passionately explains, "I haven't had a client yet ask me what their case is worth; they don't care. That's not their goal. Their goal is to have somebody say, 'Why did you kill my children?'" Thus, the heart-wrenching pursuit for justice and understanding, driven by grief and anguish, takes precedence over monetary value for these clients.

This case has left a lasting impression on many, including Mirena, who had her own transformative "Erin Brockovich moment" upon hearing the story. The profound resonance of the case has transcended personal connections, permeating influential circles and capturing the attention of notable figures, including President Joe Biden, Congressman Greg Murphy, and other prominent individuals who have played pivotal roles in advancing the associated bill. With a relentless determination to uncover the truth, Attorney Ed Bell has taken the initiative to create an epidemiological model as a supplement to the ATSDr study, while also spearheading the establishment of a remarkable call center staffed by veterans and their families.

Attorney Ed Bell's journey and passion for justice is truly remarkable. From his love for cooking to his discovery of law, his tenacity and dedication to his clients and the legal industry is truly inspiring. With the help of his law school interns and a team of compassionate professionals, Attorney Ed Bell continues to lead the charge for justice in the Camp Lejeune lawsuit. His message to the legal industry is clear - let's prioritize our clients and strive to do what's right. With Attorney Bell leading the way, there's hope for a brighter future where justice prevails.

EPISODE SURVEY:

[00:03:40] - [00:06:20] Passion and Priorities: The Secret Ingredient to a Successful Legal Career

[00:06:56] - [00:11:45] Camp Lejeune Case: Latest Updates and Court Hearing Highlights

[00:11:48] - [00:19:03] Overcoming Challenges in Mass Litigation: Case Volume, Test Trials, and Government Engagement

[00:19:04] - [00:25:54] Striking a Balance: Client Needs and Attorney Fees

[00:27:02] - [00:41:30] Pursuing Justice for Camp Lejeune: A Timeline of Advocacy, Collaboration, and Triumph

[00:41:31] - [00:50:21] Restoring Faith in The System: An Emotional and Transformative Case

[00:50:23] - [01:00:57] Catalyzing Change: Mass Tort Frenzy, Presidential Recognition, and Marine Response

[01:01:01] - [01:10:38] Thriving Against All Odds: Firm Growth and Collaborative Efforts in Camp Lejeune Litigation

[1:10:44] - [1:19:51] Legal Mentorship, Culinary Passion, and Client Dedication: A Journey of Advocacy and Success

[1:20:00] - [1:21:53] Concluding Remarks: A Message to Clients and The Legal Industry

QUOTABLE QUOTES:

1. "I encourage, I inspire, I try to do what I can to get people to the best of their game, but it's amazing how sometimes if you let people be themselves and not try to micromanage them, how much better they can do."

2. "I hope at the end of this case we won't sit back and talk about the money; we'll talk about the people we helped and maybe give a new direction to how people in America have the right to utilize the justice system. What I hope though is that the community as a whole, our body of politics, our local folks should remember the reason why our founders founded the judicial system is so that citizens could fuss with each other without killing each other."

3. "I think those of us who believe passionately in something, no matter whether it's cooking or law or husbandry or animals, whatever, there are some people that have this driving passion that makes them strive for excellence. I think I try to have some of that. Every now and then, I feel it. Sometimes I don't. I have to go looking for it. But I think it's part of any successful attorney... It's just a different passion for what you're doing."

4. "I haven't had a client yet ask me what their case is worth; they don't care. That's not their goal. Their goal is to have somebody say, 'Why did you kill my children?'"

5. "We have so many families that have lost all of their family members that were at Camp Lagoon, and you can see the pattern: they lived in the worst location. And most of these people have the worst diagnosis. When you multiply that risk of having cancer hundreds of times, then you've created something in these families that is unbearable. They want to know why, why the government did it, and why they're able to get away with it."

6. "We had to figure out a way to get these folks their ability to find justice, and that's what we did. When we got kicked out of court, I had a meeting with a bunch of our clients, and in the middle of the meeting, I said, 'Don't worry, we're going to do something. I'll take care of it.'"

7. "I think those families that I got to know for the 15 years we've been working on this case are the things that inspired me to kind of get us where we are today."

8. "I think the Court's going to be happy with the attorneys that are there. I think the Court's going to see our passion and those folks that are representing these victims and families. If we watch out for them as our clients and keep that as our focus, I think this will be successful."

9. "My job is not necessarily to just protect the easy cases but to protect those people who otherwise wouldn't have a voice."

10. "One of the things we didn't expect was that this was a very satisfying project we had. But not realizing the impact that it would have on us as a law firm, that's when I reached out to your group and said, 'Look, I'm a pretty good lawyer, and I need somebody to give me some help and some advice,' and your group has come in and helped us tremendously in our growth and in our management of certain things."

11. "I have not agreed with every jury verdict in my life, but I've always respected that verdict and kind of understood why sometimes I didn't get the result that I wanted. But having that respect for the system, I hope we can instill that among the people we represent so that they don't feel like the government can just take over their lives and do anything they want to them."

12. "We've just kept our heads down and we just kept plotting away doing what's right, and everybody worries about what the Court's going to do. I'm not worried at all what the Court's going to do, they're going to do it, and we just need to go along with what's getting ready to happen."

13. "Some of these non-lawyer advertising groups have given lawyers a bad name. A lot of them are lies and that hurts all of us. A lot of Marines and Marine families don't trust them and have not wanted to go forward because of this. I would urge them not to throw the baby out with the bathwater. There are a lot of good lawyers that would be willing to take their case and be able to help them"

14. “I believe the proof is in the pudding. We are good litigators, we know how to manage cases, we know how to put them together. All we're doing is doing more of them. It means something to me when some of the top lawyers in the country asked me to help them on these cases."

15. "I'm eternally grateful to my clients for trusting us to do what we're doing… we will not let them down. My message to the legal industry is let's do this right, let's let this be an example to other cases of how to do it. I think we can, I think we can do it right if we keep client focus as our number one goal. Then things will work out."

ABOUT OUR GUEST:

● Founder and Senior Partner of Bell Legal Group in Georgetown, South Carolina

● Recognized as a Martindale-Hubbell AV® Preeminent™ Peer Rated attorney

● Listed among The American Trial Lawyers Association's Top 100 Attorneys

● Named to prestigious publications such as Best Lawyers in America, Super Lawyers, Lawyer of the Year, and Benchmark's Litigation Star

● Recipient of the SC Lawyers Weekly Leadership in Law Award

● Serves as the chairman of the board for Garden & Gun magazine (2010), Garden & Gun Land, and The Litchfield Company

● Established a cutting-edge Vehicle Safety Research Center dedicated to investigating auto defects, conducting accident re-enactments, developing exhibits, and unraveling the intricate aspects of injury and accident cases.

● Appointed as the president of the Charleston School of Law

● Member of the Bars of South Carolina, United States District Court (District of South Carolina), United States Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals, United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit, and United States Supreme Court.

● Actively volunteers through various organizations such as Duncan United Methodist Church, Helping Hands, Habitat for Humanity, and sponsors multiple programs in hospitals, schools, and youth organizations.

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Episode #3.1: The Heart of Law With Mike Papantonio

Today, on The Heart of Law we are honored to welcome back Mike Papantonio, or "Pap" as he is affectionately known, a senior partner at the Levin Papantonio Rafferty law firm. With a series of multimillion-dollar verdicts under his belt, he is a trailblazer in the field of mass tort litigation, having handled thousands of cases across the nation. Pap's unwavering commitment to seeking justice for victims of corporate greed has helped establish Levin Papantonio Rafferty as one of the preeminent plaintiff law firms in the country. As Mirena Umizaj and her esteemed colleague exchange pleasantries, she extends her heartfelt congratulations on his daughter's decision to embark on a journey in the legal field. They begin discussing advice for aspiring young lawyers, and the topic of the legacy case arises. Undoubtedly, it is imperative to leave a lasting impact and make a meaningful contribution to the legal landscape. Pap offers sage advice and commends Mirena on her own exceptional progress, urging others to emulate her trailblazing ways. He generously provides a roadmap for success, encouraging young lawyers to exhibit the courage to take on a monumental case. They should not cower in the face of rejection or the possibility of failure, but instead understand that the law of averages dictates that risks must be taken. To avoid becoming a mere “Joe Schmoe'', one must have the fortitude to blaze new trails, take chances, and leave an imprint on the legal community. Additionally, he proudly unveils his latest merchandise, a series of t-shirts bearing the slogan "America's Lawyer". The rationale behind this branding is to “inspire young lawyers to strive towards becoming the best legal professionals in their respective communities'', with the potential to earn the moniker of "America's Lawyer" in their own right. Pap highlights the incredible feats of lawyers who have taken on insurmountable cases and triumphed against all odds. He discusses his friend Rob Billot’s harrowing experience with a PFAS case in Columbus, Ohio, which ultimately resulted in a settlement of nearly a billion dollars. Mike emphasizes that these lawyers did not view these cases as a cakewalk but as an opportunity to make a significant impact. He also recounts his own journey, meeting Mirena, and learning about the necessity of careful planning, tenacity, and a network of experienced professionals to succeed in the legal field. In a captivating exchange, Mirena and Pap delve into the entanglement of Wall Street with the legal industry. Pap boldly forecasts a major lawsuit looming on the horizon and uncovers a series of scams involving case acquisition individuals peddling cases to multiple entities. In mass torts, politics come into play, and Pap emphasizes the importance of having confidence in oneself in the legal field. He compares it to a “matador facing a bull, confident enough to turn his back and get on one knee”. Similarly, a lawyer must have the courage to face challenging situations without fear. He acknowledges that there will always be people who try to interfere with one's work and outdo them, but it is important to remain focused on the task at hand and not be distracted by petty “sophomoric rivalries”. Pap humorously refers to this as "Italian Alzheimer's" - forgetting everything except those who have wronged you.

EPISODE SURVEY:

[00:03:16] - [00:07:00] Trouble Teen Institutions

[00:07:33] - [00:10:18 Importance of The Legacy Case

[00:10:20] - [00:14:46] Courage in the Legal Field: Advice for Young Lawyers [00:14:47] - [00:18:38] Lawyers That Have Stepped Out

[00:18:41] - [00:26:15] Yin and Yang in Mass Torts

[00:26:17] - [00:30:47] The Intersection of Wall Street And The Legal Business [00:30:50] : [00:45:45] Mass Torts: Future Predictions and Politics Amidst the Money Frenzy

QUOTABLE QUOTES: “You can't be afraid of rejection, failure or being told no, you must understand what you do is all law of average”

“Lawyers have to make a decision about what that license means to them…In the end doing some good means something”

“Do you think any of one these lawyers looked at a big case and said this is going be an easy road, hell no they looked at it and said this is going to be impossible but they did it ”

“ You know you don't have control of your cases when your not actively involved, when you don’t have control of your destiny your kind of waiting to see”

“You can be the greatest closer in the world but if you're not looking at cases or taking risks and you're afraid of failure you're never going to do anything significant. You're just going to be a Joe Schmoe doing the same thing everyone else does”

ABOUT OUR GUEST:

● Senior Partner of Levin Papantonio Rafferty, P.A.

● Board Certified Civil Trial Lawyer by the Florida Bar and the National Board of Trial Advocacy

● Host of the YouTube show America’s Lawyer with over 900,000 subscribers , and founder and former host of Ring of Fire, a popular radio program.

● Inducted into the National Trial Lawyers’ Hall of Fame (2015) and Former President of The National Trial Lawyers (2012)

● Author of multiple novels, including four motivational books for lawyers and a series of legal thrillers

● Member of The International Academy of Trial Lawyers, The International Society of Barristers, The National Trial Lawyers Association, The American Board of Trial Advocates, The American Justice Association, The Southern Trial Lawyers Association, and The Florida Justice Association

● Recipient of several prestigious awards, including but not limited to, the Compassionate Gladiator Award from the Florida Justice Association (2019), Defender of Justice Award by the American Association for Justice (2015), and the Perry Nichols Award by the Florida Justice Association (2011)

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EPISODE #2.9: The Heart of Law with Alejandro BlancoSo what does Antoine De Saint-Exupéry’s The Little Prince have to do with Mirena’s special guest in this episode of The Heart of Law? Fittingly enough, Alejandro Blanco, architect and godfather of Trial Structure, reels us into an empirical conversation about how to effectively win a trial with the mind and the heart.

Our facile host hits the nail on the head. Alejandro can prodigiously “talk about anything.” A native of Argentina before his folks furloughed to the US (and a gifted child who fluently spoke English in three months then later accelerated into 4th grade at just six years old), Alejandro received an enviable, cosmopolitan education between the two countries. After attending Berkeley, he returned home and studied law in Argentina—completing a seven-year law degree in merely three years. He subsequently worked as the Chief of Protocol to the governor of his home state because of his inclination toward International Law. However, disillusioned by the graft within the Argentinian local government, Alejandro finally immigrated to the US a year later to take the bar in California. Despite being a young, broke, "punk," he cleverly volunteered as a proctor for the bar exams so he could utilize review materials. “I studied like hell for eight months while working part-time, and I took the bar just to practice … to see what it was [like]. And then I got this letter signed: ‘Congratulations!’ “ Whoosh … and the rest is history.

As Alejandro and Mirena chat about their common immigrant struggles of setting their roots while chasing the American Dream, we see how their interests intersect. They live in the legal world: Mirena in the business/finance sector and Alejandro in the profession/trial district. Interestingly enough, Alejandro opens our eyes to the trenches and intellectual aspects of Law. He introduces us to the Philosophy of Law, Sociology of Law, Evolution of Law, Comparative Procedural Law, Administrative Law and … akin to medical doctors, lawyers who decide to dive deeper into the study of Law become “Doctors of the Law” to “heal the ills of society … [and] affect how the government works within the structure of dealing with the citizens so [we] don't have lawsuits to make the government, you have adequate administrative procedures … affecting wide-ranging changes. ”

In other words, while Alejandro points us to seemingly lofty and scholarly pursuits, he actually uses philosophy and interdisciplinary approaches from Carl Jung, Sigmund Freud, Jacob L. Moreno, and even Steven L. Winter as conduits to point us to the deeper recesses of the heart. The critical reasoning and pragmatic methodologies Alejandro learned become practical tools to improve an unpredictable process: TRIAL—the ultimate stage where lives hang in the balance. He creates and provides a surefire, scholastic formula for lawyers to use. He calls it “a Systems Approach vs. a Talent Approach.” Most importantly, we hear his axiom behind helping everyone. He approaches plaintiffs the same way Mother Teresa of Calcutta compassionately helped the poor: representing them without taking their faults and imperfections against them. Intellectual altruism, so to speak—an enlightened logic deciding not to discriminate against others.

Well, it seems we have much to learn. We can all choose to become students of our circumstances! How, indeed, do we “utilize betrayal” and live magnanimously in the midst of loss? For Alejandro, the “artistry of trial work is to be able to experience that pain and to let go.” Now we come full circle. Because of what he allowed us to discern, Alejandro has become the utopian guest for The Heart of Law’s Episode 2.9. When we learn and truly understand, we open our hearts. Then we have to agree with The Little Prince: "It is only with the heart that one can see rightly; what is essential is invisible to the eye."

EPISODE SURVEY:

• [00:13:13 - 00:16:33] In Living the American Dream
• [00:20:35 - 00:23:55] Why Alejandro Loves Law
• [00:23:57 - 00:34:48] Alejandro Philosophizes
• [00:35:35 - 00:49:08] About Trial Lawyers College and Trial Structure
• [00:50:40 - 01:04:32] Dealing with Loss & Pain
• [01:07:09 - 01:12:07] The Next 5-10 Years for Alejandro
• [01:12:07 - 01:23:30] Women Power
• [01:24:43 - 01:28:15] Advice to Other Lawyers

QUOTABLE QUOTES:

• "We are called to heal. We are called to right the unrightable wrongs."
• "It is one thing to see the nuances that the mind loves to play with. It is another to take care of the hunger and the needs and “the cholera” and the wars that are going on. So healing always comes first."
• "Give me a case. Any case."
• "You can't do your best if you're numb … the artistry of trial work is to be able to experience that [client’s] pain and to let go."
• "[In trial] I can … rest knowing that I gave it all. I'll just feel the pain–breathe it in, then breathe it out–And I'll stand again because so many people need our help … There's no way around it. You just have to stand and do it again."
• "Climbing is akin to trial work. Every case has a move that you have to execute perfectly. We call it the crux. If you do not execute the crux perfectly, you die. And as a trial lawyer, you learn the few times that you don't execute [the move], you die. [Ask yourself,] "What [is it] about me that is not able to make this move?"
• "The jury wants to do the right thing. The defense wants to sell a fake narrative or an absurd narrative. What kills that? What trumps … and cuts through that morass? Truth! And Caring! When you come to the court and you leave it all, if you don't win, then nobody can win."

ABOUT OUR GUEST:

• Godfather of Trial Structure
• Handled over 100 civil and criminal trials
• Lecturer for
  • New Jersey Association for Justice Boardwalk Seminar
  • Consumer Attorneys Association for Los Angeles
  • Minnesota Association for Justice
  • Alaska Association for Justice
• Specialty: Complex, traumatic brain damage cases
• 2014 CAOC Trial Lawyer of the Year Finalist
• Article The Heart Must Go On ©

LINKS FROM THE SHOW:

• Books Alejandro Recommends:
  • The Archetypes and The Collective Unconscious by Carl Jung
  • The Little Prince by Antoine De Saint-Exupéry
  • A Clearing in the Forest: Law, Life, and Mind
• Visit Mirena's savoir-faire website and LinkedIn
• Shownotes and podcast production by Caryl Veloso and her team at Writers’ Ink

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EPISODE #2.8: The Heart of Law with Andrew Finkelstein

Aptly called by Mirena “a visionary”, Andrew Finkelstein, a pioneer in integrating technology into his law firms in the mid-1990s, shares his trade secrets in The Heart of Law. At the inexperienced age of 22, Andrew first felt ambivalence toward acquiring an MBA or pursuing a law degree. Yet a chance encounter with business mogul Larry Tisch (CBS, Tisch Company, CEO of the New York Giants) at a wedding gave him all the guidance he needed. So with the heart of an entrepreneur, Andrew set off to become a lawyer. Despite not having any plans to join his father’s firm, he subsequently found himself helping run the family practice. With Finkelstein & Partners, thriving since 1959 (founded by his father, Howard S. Finkelstein), he acquired a deep quarry of knowledge and tradition passed down from six generations. Equipped with rare business acumen, Andrew shares sage insight into running a firm effectively. He tells Mirena a business strategy where “centrally conducted operations ensure optimal quality control,” attributing this efficiency to his decision of having ”a 100% paperless firm by 1995 … I viewed what we do as a pure service industry grounded in technology—a technology firm that happens to practice law.” Long before savoir-faire CRMs came into play, their firm established systematic transfer of documents, uninhibited communications, a stable workforce, and functional operations. Ergo, their efficiency generated the attention of other firms who, in turn, partnered with Andrew and his team.

One valuable method used in his practice is how meticulously they acquire and disseminate information. He breaks it down to “two very big buckets,” keeping two defined questions and methodologies in mind: (1) “Who do we gather information from?” and (2) “Who do we have to deliver it to?” Once they’ve found the best information source, Andrew says they reformat the material, build a straightforward process to streamline the data, then efficiently deliver it to those who specifically need it. A second design lending to the sophistication of their operation rests within the stability of a clearly defined workflow: “We limit the tasks that people are required to do … we have a very streamlined business where people have clear, identifiable responsibilities … they become experts [where] they don’t get distracted from doing what their core competencies are … We’ll look at somebody’s job and see how I can break it down so that they are hyper-specialized.” So when he talks about having his eye on “the big picture” and delegating to specialists, we now have a small window to the workings of a well-oiled, progressive, stalwart legal organization. Too simplistic? Not quite. It takes all the discipline and patience in the world to manage and maintain this functionality one decade after the next.

As Mirena and Andrew huddle over the nuances of the legal industry, insurance companies, the justice system, and some cases, they also discuss Andrew’s remarkable book, I Hope We Never Meet. Ultimately, the unique challenge of balancing family and career comes up. With three children and a supportive wife, Andrew pleasantly (yet wisely) remarks, “It’s very simple. I don’t call and say I’m coming home until I’m in the car.” Even as Mirena calls Andrew “intuitive, thoughtful, and reflective,” onscreen he remains unpretentious, practical, and humble to a tee (and gives a lot of credit to his wife). Through it all, we realize we’ve just met an unassuming—yet incredibly successful—lawyer who just happens to be a solid family man through and through.

EPISODE SURVEY:

• [00:02:18 - 00:08:22] - The Modern Law Firm
• [00:09:22 - 00:11:30] - Taking Advantage of Opportunities
• [00:11:31 - 00:16:41] - Andrew’s Journey to Law
• [00:17:45 - 00:23:26] - Struggles of Balancing Life and Work
• [00:24:11 - 00:30:29] - How Technology has shaped Law
• [00:30:31 - 00:34:09] - How to Manage at Large Workforce
• [00:34:13 - 00:37:09] - Andrew’s Book
• [00:37:13 - 00:39:41] - A Premature Loss
• [00:39:43 - 00:44:27] - Client Care
• [00:44:30 - 00:58:55] - Two Courtroom Doors
• [00:58:57 - 01:07:10] - It’s Not About the Money
• [01:08:27 - 01:10:55] - Andrew’s Take on Sound Financial Planning

QUOTABLE QUOTES:

• "When you delegate, you can't be a “big-picture” person. You have to delegate with great specificity. You have to micromanage when you delegate … Spend the time to delegate [the task] the right way, so it's clear. If you micromanage after that, then why did you delegate?"
• "[My passion to seek justice] totally flows from my clients 100%. When you sit with somebody, they're counting on you to make things right for what they've gone through. I don't need anything else."
• "There are far more frivolous defenses than there are frivolous cases. But you never hear about the frivolous defenses."
• "It's the minority of the Decision Makers who make some bad decisions … it's not the majority of corporations or people. There are bad apples, and when those bad apples act … what we need to do is root them out and do the best to get rid of them if the corporations don't do it themselves."
• "I don't cast a broad brush and assume everybody is bad ... I presume everybody is good. And there were just a couple of bad apples that it shouldn't have happened. But the real test is once that happens, what do the corporations choose to do?"
• "So my role isn't really outcome-oriented. It's information based … I can do my best to influence [to] have the best outcome possible, but I can't precisely predict the future … When I sit down with clients, my job is to educate and inform them [about] the risks they're facing and let them know it is their case. It's not mine."
• "But the 'deny, delay, defend' really is just the mantra of insurance companies. And their ultimate business goal is [to] hope people quit because ( ...on a real macro-level,) if they have 1000 claims that come in and they create these obstacles, and 500 of the people quit because of the obstacles, and then by denying 500 drop off, and then delaying another 300 drop off, and then defending another 100 drop off. So I'm down to 100 cases or 200 cases … And they pay on those 200 cases [what] they really owed on 1000 cases. So they're making money hand-over-fist. People forget about what is not on the blackboard."
• "I can't get [the insurance companies] to acknowledge it in words, but I certainly can in action. And the action is a financial resolution. So I don't care what they say. If it's somebody paying millions of dollars, if they don't apologize through words, they're apologizing through actions."

ABOUT OUR GUEST:

• Managing Partner at Finkelstein & Partners, Jacoby & Meyers, LLP, Fine, Olin & Anderman, LLP, Finkelstein, Blankinship, Frei-Pearson & Garber, LLP, and Diller Law, LLP
• Handled several multi-million dollar settlements, representing personal injury cases against corporate wrongdoers.
• Executive Board Member of National Trial Lawyers of America and New York State Trial Lawyers Association
• Named One of America’s 100 Most Influential Trial Lawyers (2014-15) by The Trial Lawyer Magazine
• Member of The National Safety Council, Trial Lawyers for Public Justice, and several steering committees across the nation.
• Member of the New York Bar Association and the Orange County Bar Association

LINKS FROM THE SHOW:

• Check out Andrew Finkelstein’s Trial School
• Read Andrew’s Book: I Hope We Never Meet
• Visit Mirena’s chic website and LinkedIn
• Shownotes and podcast production by Caryl Veloso and her team at Writers’ Ink

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Touted by the New York Times as “One of the top civil trial lawyers in America,” Mark Lanier graces The Heart of Law in one of the most thought-provoking episodes to date. Famed to have won about $20 Billion in verdicts, the esteemed litigator—also a theologian and preacher—lends invaluable insight into family, faith, science, law, and life.

Sharp as a tack and a transcendent seeker herself, Mirena asks penetrating questions about Mark’s Christian walk. Mark describes the awakening of his faith, the security of his salvation, and the divine friendship God has extended his way. He shares the devout life of his mother, Carolyn Lanier, who dedicated Mark to God after her prayers for the healthy birth of a son became a reality. Much like Hannah of the Old Testament, who gave up Samuel to serve Yahweh, Carolyn continuously reminded Mark throughout his youth that his life was not his own—it belonged to God. Holding on to an unborrowed faith, Mark describes affinity with God and how daily spending time in the divine Presence enriches a hallowed relationship, guiding him throughout his life. Mirena and Mark do a deep dive, comparing notes on the confusion around the warring world religions (Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Buddhism) that each claim the way to the “real path.” They talk about people and institutions holding ownership of Christianity but practicing cruelty, dishonesty, and acrimony. Answering all of Mirena’s gripping questions, Mark gives an interesting take on the Bible. He expounds on spirituality versus religiosity and how science is intertwined with faith. Along those lines, Mark remarks on how “elements of truth” surround us in diverse ways. But overall, he simply says: “I want the fullest picture of truth that there can be.” The perfect truth, which Mark likened to Cinderella who alone can perfectly fit into the glass slipper. An apologist at heart, we hear of The Lanier Theological Library and Learning Center in Oxford, and the historical Yarnton Manor restoration project in Oxfordshire village to serve those who seek to enrich their theological studies.

Shifting gears to the legal business, they discuss the Johnson and Johnson Trial and Mark’s monumental $4.69 Billion verdict against the talc conglomerate. Giving his unique take on the recent bankruptcy ruling, Mark describes the tort landscape, detailing how the legal profession has radically evolved in the past decade. With Venture Capitalists coming into the picture (and sometimes even “own[ing] lots of ethical overlays in the business"), there lies an ongoing need for maturity in the business of law—especially while infusing capital into tort cases. Likewise, he observes “two basic kinds of lawyers in the mass tort arena … the chicken catchers and chicken pluckers,” steadfastly agreeing with Mirena about the need to represent plaintiffs with compassionate care. After some baklava, pita, donut, and recipe banter, the show comes to a warm close. Mark fondly talks about his wife and children—who all practice law! As his daughter Rachel affectionately notes, they are “like the Von Trapp family lawyers” upholding justice in their unique Lanier way. And the legacy he wants to leave behind? Like Paul (the apostle) Mark hopes to have “fought the good fight” of faith, and hopes we remember him as a man who "loved his friends and loved his family, and his faith, and his God above all things.”EPISODE SURVEY:

• [00:03:32] - [00:06:59]: A Mother’s Influence (Carolyn Lanier’s faith)
• [00:07:00] - [00:13:47]: Not a Borrowed Faith. An Ongoing Conversation with God
• [00:14:09] - [00:18:34]: Growing in Faith is An Investment of Time
• [00:23:15] - [00:43:54]: A Theological Exchange
• [00:45:25] - [00:52:14]: Mark’s Take on the Bible
• [00:56:21] - [00:59:57]: Mark's View on Science & Faith
• [01:00:06] - [01:04:50]: How Mark’s Faith Fuels His Career
• [01:04:59] - [01:08:19]: The Lanier Library in Oxford: The Yarnton Manor Restoration
• [01:09:58] - [01:15:11]: The J&J Trial and the Monumental $4.69 Billion Verdict
• [01:15:49] - [01:24:00]: Marks Thoughts on the Business of Law and Future of Mass Torts
• [01:41:00] - [01:43:27]: The Legacy Mark Hopes to Leave

QUOTABLE QUOTES:

• Mom said, “I told God, if you will give me a son, I will give that son back to you.” And lo and behold, Mom gets pregnant. I am born. From my earliest age, Mom has told me that story and she's told me, “You belong to God … You don't belong to me. I've been given the honor of getting to be your earthly mom, but you belong to Him.”
• [My mother] said “God doesn't have grandchildren, he has children. And so He's not looking for you to have a relationship that's based upon your family or based upon me or your dad ... God wants to relate to you individually.” And I found that to be true and found a relationship with God. And it's one that's lasted me all my life, but all of that grew from seeds that had been sown by my mom.
• Instead of just staying as a mysterious God … [He] took the form of Jesus and became a friend to people and lived the life that we could understand as a friend. And that relationship is available. And so I cried out on my own. “God, that's what I need. I need a friend. I need that.” And the presence of God was all of a sudden a very real thing to me. It was no longer academic knowledge.
• I think there's [an] evil that goes on in this world. Greed can turn people wretched, and some people's greed turns them into monsters ... So I believe that at this point in my life, there is a righteous fight. I think that's some of why I do what I do.
• ... Venture Capital is actually an equalizer that takes [a case] out of a David-versus-Goliath-mode when it comes to being able to fund the litigation; that's where the smart money is by the Venture Capitalists, and that's where it can be smartly used by lawyers.
• And so it was the recognition that I am loved, loved unconditionally, by someone who knows everything about me—Every corner and recess of my mind, any skeleton that could possibly exist in the closet of a 12-year-old kid. You know, there is someone who, with full knowledge of me, says, ‘I love you unconditionally, I care for you, and I want what's best for you.’ And within that, there was a great sense of security, because now I knew that someone took an interest in me and that this is Someone of immeasurable power and knowledge and goodness. And so there's a great deal of peace and security and a comfort. And it doesn't mean that there's not times of grief and sadness, but it means in those times of grief and sadness, there's an abiding comfort. It doesn't mean that there are times of fear and doubt, but in those times of fear and doubt, there is a Presence of courage … it's very confirming, but it's also one that's that's convicting because it lets you see the world [from] different eyes.
• In a sense, I began to understand that there really is a difference between right and wrong and there really are some things worth fighting for. And then there are some things where it's not worth fighting for. I began to understand the importance of forgiving other people. Perhaps most importantly, I began to understand the importance of showing love to everyone that I met. Because God is crying out for people to hear and recognize His presence, in my opinion. And so if God's crying out for them, how dare I not love them as well?
• I want to care for everybody. I want to try to help people and encourage people. I want to reflect on the outside, this Presence that is in my life, on the inside. It really transformed me as a person and has continued to do so as I try to continue to grow even now, decades and decades later.
• The more time I spend with God, the better I know Him, the more intimate the relationship.
• As humans, we are hardwired to love truth. Truth and authenticity are things that when we see them, we just are attracted to them. We grab onto them. We like people who are authentic and true. We don't like people that are deceptive. We don't like to be with people that we don't trust.
• There are people in Christianity who have varying degrees of truth. They've grabbed onto I would venture to say that there are people then who are spiritual but not religious, people who have found some elements of truth and grabbed hold of them, even though they're not ready to embrace any religious system. But here's where I come out on that. I come out by saying. I want the fullest picture of truth that there can be.
• I hope when I'm dead and gone, people remember that I'm a person who loved his family and his faith, his God above all things … as I fought the good fight and I finished the race, and I kept the faith.

ABOUT OUR GUEST:

• Founder of The Lanier Law Firm
• Inducted into the National Trial Lawyers’ Trial Lawyer Hall of Fame
• Recognized as one of the “Top 100 Trial Lawyers in America” by in 2022 Benchmark Litigation
• Honored from 2005 to 2022 as one of America’s Best Lawyers by U.S. News and World Report
• Named The National Law Journal’s Outstanding Trial Lawyer of the Year for 2018
• Honored by the National Trial Lawyers Association as their 2016 and 2018 Trial Lawyer of the Year
• Selected as the President of the National Trial Lawyers Association
• Awarded American Association of Justice’s Lifetime Achievement Award

LINKS FROM THE SHOW:

• Mark Lanier’s: Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram
• Check out Mark’s Books!
  • Atheism on Trial: A Lawyer Examines the Case for Unbelief
  • Christianity on Trial: A Lawyer Examines the Christian Faith
  • Psalms for Living: Daily Prayers, Wisdom, and Guidance (1845 Books)
  • Torah for Living: Daily Prayers, Wisdom, and Guidance (1845 Books)
• Mark Lanier’s theological resources: Biblical Literacy and Lanier Theological Library
• Visit Mirena’s cool website and LinkedIn
• Shownotes and podcast production by Caryl Veloso and her team at Writers' Ink

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Stephen Reck and Jose Rojas roll in The Heart of Law to chat with Mirena Umizaj about one of the biggest, polemical cases sweeping the country. They are pioneers in the baby formula lawsuits: the Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC) litigation against Mead Johnson and Abbott Laboratories. Currently hoping to build awareness and reverse the careless tradition of offering cow-based formula to premature infants in hospital Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICU) across the U.S., the two attorneys partner with Scott D. Camassar and Paul Levin (along with firms around America), to protect preemies from mortifying disease and death.

Stephen and Jose open the show by sharing their humble beginnings. Stephen reminisces about his genteel Italian grandmother, Rosa Maria Cornaglia, who raised him through high school; he fondly recalls an idyllic childhood full of incredible food, friendships, and love. After graduating from the University of Vermont, Stephen pursued a legal career and enjoyed the affluence it had to offer—for a short while. He left Wall Street and decided against the lifestyle of a well-paid defense attorney. He bravely took a sizable pay cut to live the simple life of a litigator who fought for the underdog. Stephen’s plight for justice stemmed from Attorney Matthew Shafner’s principled career influence. His late mentor—and legendary Legal Champion of the Working People—left an indelible imprint on his life. Stephen said, “[By helping people,] he turned my life around; although I was poor, [Matthew] taught me something very valuable … he changed my career.” Meanwhile, Jose fondly talks about how his parents fell in love and his dactylic childhood in Madrid, Spain. Raised with a strong sense of equity and fairness, Jose heads off to Boston for college. At 17, he began his life in America with a law degree firmly in mind, subsequently starting a bustling career in the Army JAG Corps. A few years later, he pivots to mass torts; after working for “big entities like the government or big corporations,” Jose discovered the deep satisfaction and joy in “representing people with real problems and having an opportunity to … effectuate change when helping people.”No wonder these two lion-hearted attorneys cross paths and fight for the weakest of the weak. Stephen and Jose recount the first two heartbreaking cases—detailing NEC’s effect on preemies' bodies. We understand why, one appalling account after another, the movement began. Stephen describes NEC’s confounding injury spectrum: death, surgery, medical NEC. Next, Jose outlines the complex, multi-pronged dilemma the movement has to overcome: (1) the aggressive marketing campaigns for Similac and Enfamil, (2) the cutthroat lobbying to physicians and hospitals, (3) the enormous expense and rarity of donor milk, and (4) the “institutional laziness” within NICUs. Their plight appears insurmountable. But is it? As Jose affirms, “the solution is out there, but it's expensive, and it requires people to put their heads together and find a solution.” Let’s tune in and consider how to help them in our small way. EPISODE SURVEY:

• [00:19:03:08 - 00:26:50:23] First NEC Case
• [00:28:15:08 - 00:35:47:03] Science & Temporal Causation
• [00:36:42:23 - 00:40:33:24] Prongs & Complexities of a Multifactorial Problem
• [00:40:35:00 - 00:45:36:06] NEC & its Evolution to Mass Tort
• [00:53:19:00 - 00:56:48:07] Litigation Strategy & Two Tracts
• [00:56:50:07 - 01:00:58:00] The Extent of Infants' Injuries from NEC

QUOTABLE QUOTES:

Stephen M. Reck

• “Juries can appreciate sincerity and honesty when you're fighting for the right cause.”
• “[The parents] send us pictures of their children and the children are happy … Although they can't talk, they express themselves, and in many ways, it's truly a beautiful story.”
• “[Abbott and Meade] wanted to destroy us to end this whole litigation and that was their tactic. But it really made us stronger. I mean, they picked the wrong people to deal with.”
• I think together, the moms and the lawyers are going to change the practice of feeding preemies, and we are going to save lives. … I can't think of a more important case that I've ever read about anywhere in the history of the law.”

Jose' Rojas

• “My passion is really not with representing big entities like the government or big corporations, but rather with representing people with real problems and having an opportunity to really solve those problems.”
• “One of the things that completely brings me passion in the field of mass torts is the ability to really effectuate change when you help people, it's satisfying. You're bringing a solution to people with real problems.”
• We're really hoping to make the planet safer for babies. And that's something that gets me up every morning. It drives me. It helps me work. It brings passion to the work that I do. And I really think I'm doing exactly what I should be doing right now.
• “There has to be an awareness, and when that awareness happens, then you'll see the solutions come very easily because the solutions are out there, and they're scientifically feasible.”
• “One of the things that has really amazed me about the mass tort industry, which I didn't expect, but I found, is the level of teamwork that occurs by law firms and lawyers in really trying to collaborate and cooperate to make sure we're all marching in the same direction.”
• “When you're touted as the guy who's going to do great things … you start to reflect a little bit and you're like, ‘have I done great things?’ I think I'm doing great things right now. We know our cause is righteous and we will never stop fighting.”

ABOUT OUR GUESTS:

Stephen M. Reck

• Partner and Co-Founder of Levin, Rojas, Camassar, and Reck, LLC
• Discovered the baby formula mass tort litigation that is now sweeping the country.
• Filed the first lawsuit against Abbott Laboratories and Mead Johnson, the manufacturers of Similac and Enfamil baby formula
• Member of the Connecticut Trial Lawyers Association and the New London County Bar Association
• Featured as the “Top Lawyer of New England,” the “Super Lawyer” list, and “Lawyers of Distinction”

Jose' Rojas

• Handles cases involving personal injury, medical malpractice, and defective products
• Member of the Connecticut Trial Lawyers Association
• Former Captain in the United States Army, JAG Corps, and Special Assistant United States Attorney
• Rated “AV Preeminent” by Martindale Hubbell
• Recognized in the “Super Lawyers” list

LINKS FROM THE SHOW:

• Visit Levin, Rojas, Camassar, & Reck, LLC, Stephen and Jose’s firm
• Learn more about Stephen and Jose: Stephen’s Bio and Jose’s Bio
• Stephen’s socials: Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter
• Jose’s website and LinkedIn
• Visit Mirena’s chic website and LinkedIn
• Shownotes and podcast production by Caryl Veloso

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EPISODE #2.5: The Heart of Law with Willie D. Powells IIIHave you ever met a true brainbox? Someone intrepidly astute? Someone so capable, they can accomplish almost everything they set their mind to do? Wait until Mirena introduces you to her friend and present-day Renaissance man, Willie D. Powells III. He and our incisive host talk nineteen-to-the-dozen on today’s Heart of Law episode, showing us a cerebral way of living life to the fullest.

Thanks to his wise father who encouraged Willie to explore diverse academic fields before committing himself to the life of a physician, Willie did nothing less than reach for the stars. Calling himself a professional student, he shares his inspiring scholastic journey at Drexel University while under the wing of his genius mentor, Cato T. Laurencin, M.D., Ph.D., and revisits how he became an accomplished academician through and through. He conquered the GMAT, LSAT, MCAT, became an athlete, a concert violinist, a pianist, a chemical engineer, a biologist, holds an MBA, and graduated with multiple dual degrees alongside a law degree to boot! What can’t Willie do? How did he do it all in less than record time?

On the one hand, Willie’s stint with ExxonMobil allowed him a glimpse of the chemical engineering industry; on the other hand, Willie’s subsequent work with Wendy Buskop Law Group immersed him in patent law—jump-starting his legal career. Down the road, Willie decided to make a seismic shift in his legal track after his sister asked basic legal questions he could not answer, “I can tell you about engineering and the law—all of this sophisticated intellectual property stuff—But the very common, everyday issue that you would expect a lawyer to know about, like divorce or somebody [getting placed] in jail … I couldn’t answer!” He questioned the direction of his legal career after that encounter. With his beautiful, brand new, very expensive, black Corvette staring him straight in the eye, he pivoted. Willie “hung the shingle out” by joining forces with Irvin Gadson, George Tennant, and Derek Harmon. He began a new kind of education; Willie learned the ropes of criminal law, courtroom life, and how a boutique litigation practice should run. And ran with it, he did. A few years later, Willie set off to open his firm, the Law Offices of Willie Powells III & Associates, PLLC. As much as his entrepreneurial background and business acumen helped establish his nascent practice, Willie prudently did every menial and mundane task himself. He paid thoughtful attention to minute aspects of his business: humble enough to cut overhead costs, wise enough to choose strategic branding fitting his vision, and patient enough to personalize his services for every client. As Mirena points out, now Willie is a huge celebrity lawyer in Texas.

Willie’s inspired enthusiasm for living and learning certainly fills the air and is nothing but contagious. While he talks with so much vim about what he learned (and continues to learn), Willie echoes what we have heard: If we put our whole heart into it, we can accomplish anything we set our minds to do. Because he vigorously lives by this tenet day after humble day, we believe him. So, let’s get to it! Let's learn. Let's live.
EPISODE SURVEY

• [00:02:08] - [00:17:21] Willie’s Fascinating Education
• [00:48:23] - [00:58:25] Thriving in the Legal Business
• [01:00:51] - [01:06:14] How Willie Expanded His Marketing Efforts
• [01:09:53] - [01:16:00] Willie’s Shift to Mass Torts

QUOTABLE QUOTES:

• "At the end of the day, helping people and making people happy makes me happy."
• "What happens is you get the experience, you make some mistakes, you learn from them and now [you] get a fresh start."
• "If you come to my practice, we want to give you a world-class experience. We are changing the game from within."
• "We're very happy for opportunities to grow because we know when we grow, we reach out and help other people grow along with us. And, bit by bit, that's how we make our community, our city, our state, our country, our world a better place."
• "We definitely have our problems, but in the world we live in, if you [know] what you're doing right and helping people, you're [doing] great. There are no limits!"
• "Let's go to the new echelon. Let's go to the unknown. Let's go to space … It's been a work in progress, but [discovery] is something that takes on a life of its own. As long as I get out of the way, I am [not] going to miss the shot."

ABOUT OUR GUEST:

• President and CEO of Law Offices of Willie D Powells III and Associates, PLLC in Houston, TX
• Provides stellar legal representation for several types of injury cases including car and truck accidents, catastrophic injury, and wrongful death.
• Achieved several high profile settlements, including one $2.8 million dollar verdict
• Listed in the “Who’s Who Top Attorneys of North America” (2022), “American Institute of Personal Injury Attorneys Top 10 Best” (2020, 2019, 2018, 2017), “The National Black Lawyers Top 100,” “Litigator of the Year” (2020), and much more!

LINKS FROM THE SHOW:

• Check out Willie’s law firm: Law Offices of Willie D Powells III and Associates, PLLC
• Willie’s Socials: Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter
• Visit Mirena’s Mod Website and LinkedIn
• Shownotes and podcast production by Caryl Veloso

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EPISODE #2.4: The Heart of Law with David Selby & Todd Mathews

Two courtroom heroes in the mass tort world, David Selby and Todd Mathews share the mic with Mirena Umizaj in this season's fourth episode. The show starts in full swing as the partners at Bailey Glasser LLP share their stories and humble origins ... Todd recounts the impact of a kind family and the local church during his early teen years. Despite his plans to become a Southern Baptist preacher, he found his true calling in the courtroom. Through the justice system's pulpit, Todd has aimed to make a difference in people's lives. Specializing in injury claims for almost 20 years, his reputation as "a master-of-all-trades" (as Mirena puts it) made him adept at handling almost any case under the sun—all in the name of serving others. Now distinctly aware of his morality, Todd describes how his worldview shifted. We hear how the murder of his dear friend and colleague, Randy Gori, shook him to his very core.

Meanwhile, David unpacks how his career began at the district attorney's office, immediately entrenched in jury trials. Eventually becoming Division Chief of Alabama’s Violent Crimes Division allowed him to have a "unique perspective to the whole jury system." After subsequently gravitating toward defense and plaintiff work, he and his friend opened a firm in 1999. Soon their practice, Kee & Selby LLP, grew to have about 12 partners in a few years. As David's fame grew in the legal industry, like-mined colleagues asked him to come aboard Bailey Glasser. And the rest is history.

We learn how Todd and David's paths crossed as they began serving on the Executive Committee of the Atrium Hernia Mesh Multidistrict Litigation. Both share a common philosophy and pursuit: they look after the underdog. We hear their compassioned plight for their clients—victims who struggle to survive who are just "living out their unfortunate story." Shifting gears, when asked by Mirena to reflect on the evolution of the legal industry in the last decade, without hesitation, Todd says: "One of the best things that [has] happen[ed] in the last ten years is the focus that has been put on female attorneys … minority attorneys getting opportunities to lead MDLs to have a significant impact." Dovetailing the insight, David remarks on the increasing resources clients and firms now enjoy.

During the deep dive, David and Todd center on the breaking news about the horrendous Johnson & Johnson (JNJ.N) bankruptcy ruling. At the case's front and center, they dissect the intricacies of how the corporation side-stepped any settlement claims. They expound on how JNJ.N received the protection of U.S. Bankruptcy Court Judge Michael Kaplan, bringing about the titanic loss of plaintiffs all over America. As David perplexingly puts it, the "stroke of a pen … eviscerated everybody's right to a jury trial." While the tireless pursuit of correcting mammoth wrongs brought about by the talc conglomerate continues, the duo doesn't rest. New cases to win and more plaintiffs to protect await them. If we see what they see on the frontlines, we’d likely do the same.

EPISODE SURVEY

• 00:12:20 - 00:13:40 How Todd and David became friends
• 00:14:05 - 00:18:20 Todd’s life highlights
• 00:22:53 - 00:27:55 David’s Words of Wisdom
• 00:28:20 - 00:31:02 Todd’s insight into diversity in the legal field
• 00:44:33 - 00:52:09 Synopsis of Johnson and Johnson trial
• 01:02:58 - 01:07:42 David’s analysis of J&J Bankruptcy case legal argument
• 01:23:41 - 01:26:30 Todd’s thanks to his support system

QUOTABLE QUOTES

David Selby:

• People ask all the time: “ What’s the reason for your [firm's] growth and how is it planned? ” … We don’t have a defined growth pattern ... When there are talented lawyers that we know we want to be with and be doing work with, we go and get them.
• There are good stories and there are bad stories, but everybody's life has a story. You don't know what it is. So be careful how quickly you judge people, regardless of how well they appear to have things together ...
• If we all do what we want to do and do it well, work follows.
• At the end of the day, the jury trial system is the bedrock of our nation's justice system.
• The unsung heroes are our families.

Todd Matthews:

• Take time to enjoy things in life ... identify those people in your life that are really important and make sure that they know how important they are.
• I don't know how much longer I've got on is Earth, but I'm going to enjoy it while I'm here.
• One great thing I've seen happen in the last 10 years is the focus that has been put on female and minority attorneys getting opportunities to lead MDLs … to have a significant impact, to be elevated to judges, [and] be the judges that are handling these large MDL dockets.
• Our number one most important goal should always, always be the client. And if it's not, then I question your motivation for being a lawyer… there are no ifs, and’s, or buts about it.
• The last six years of practicing law have been extremely enjoyable because I get to work with my best friend. It's life-changing ... I do things is different now. The way I think about cases [and] the way I approach cases is different, and it's because of that relationship.

LINKS FROM THE SHOW:

• Check out Bailey Glasser, Todd and David’s firm
• Visit Todd’s LinkedIn
• Visit David’s LinkedIn
• Visit Mirena’s Chic Website and LinkedIn
• Shownotes and podcast production by Caryl Veloso and her team at Writers’ Ink

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EPISODE #2.3: The Heart of Law with Shelby Walton

If our previous guest had youth and sagacity on his side, wait till Mirena introduces us to Shelby Walton. Sharp as a tack, the gifted trial lawyer is indeed in a league of her own. We encounter an impressive, young prodigy who the Florida Defender calls “a rising star in the world of Florida litigation.”The moment our captivating host engages her, we recognize the young lady’s adamantine drive, nimble wit, focused calm, and acute mind. As they go into the deep dive and learn about her story, Mirena is right. Shelby is an “effective public speaker” and “has wisdom beyond her years.” She has an effortlessness about her that we have the privilege to enjoy. When we hear how much she has achieved at such a nascent age, Shelby has obviously broken through many socio-cultural barriers, but remarkably appears unfazed by any obstacle she has had to overcome. Being a woman, being black, and being young does not seem to daunt or rattle her in any way. Nothing is contrived about her; Shelby’s composure is light and temperate. No wonder she runs toe-to-toe with the heroes at The Haggard Law Firm.

Shelby’s previous work at the Miami-Dade Public Defender’s Office taught her to connect deeply with her clients. Engaging them in the profound aspects of their lives energizes and motivates her. To her, client trust anchors the success of any defense: ” … To really be able to encapsulate somebody's experience into a closing statement, or to effectively persuade a jury … you can't do that unless you truly understand your client. And your client won't really give you the opportunity to do that to your fullest unless they trust you … So those first conversations, one of the biggest lessons that I took from the public defender's office, was client trust.” At the apex of their conversation, Mirena and Shelby discuss women and minority women in the legal profession. Shelby acknowledges that perhaps there aren’t enough women in law compared to men. However, she does emphasize how “environment is important.” A law firm has to intentionally provide a space where minority women—or any woman for that matter—can thrive as a lawyer “... think about what you are providing this person,” she says. She knows it is rare, but she speaks from the exceptional reception at The Haggard Law Firm. The guys she works with have given her a “phenomenal” space to hone her craft, to thrive, and to excel. She says of Managing Partner, Michael Haggard: “He has just taken me in and given me a voice and given me a platform [to speak].” Despite working as the only black woman—the only woman—at their practice, she has felt wholeheartedly accepted and received by everyone at the Haggard firm. “It's a gift” she enjoys. They chat about the status quo, the Impostor Syndrome, podcasting, and just living life as a woman. All in all, we do agree with Mirena in her observation. Shelby is “part of that revolution,” it won’t be a stretch to say she rides the tip of that spear—even if she appears so unself-conscious about it. Shelby makes immense waves in the legal system just by being herself. And what an outstanding self that is.

EPISODE SURVEY:

• [00:01:41]- [00:13:12] The Genesis of a Budding Career
• [00:15:40]- [00:24:20] Priming the Pump
• [00:35:07] - [00:44:38] Women Working in Law
• [00:50:38] - [00:54:36] Shelby Has Them Too

QUOTABLE QUOTES:

• I think that the most important thing is the first conversation that you have with your client. Every time … whether it [is in] criminal or here in civil, because what primes you for trial is your relationship with your client … When you know your client’s story, and you feel their story, and you feel their pain, and you understand their life … everything else falls in line.
• The most vital part of prepping yourself for the trial is that first conversation.
• Something that law firms need to wrap their minds around more is: Client relationships are everything.
• My clients become a part of me.

ABOUT OUR GUEST:

• Associate Attorney with The Haggard Law Firm
• Spent three years as a trial attorney at the Miami-Dade Public Defender’s Office before entering private practice
• Shelby is a Florida Association of Defense Lawyers, Gregg Wenzel Young Lawyer Award nominee
• Recipient of both the Gideon’s Hope Award and the James T. Miller Award
• Featured in the Florida Defender as a rising star in the world of Florida litigation
• Earned both a Master of Arts degree in African Studies and a Bachelor of Arts degree in International Relations at Boston University
• Competed as a nationally recognized Division I, Track & Field athlete at Boston University

LINKS FROM THE SHOW:

• Check out Shelby’s practice: The Haggard Law Firm
• Learn more about Shelby: Her Bio
• Connect with Shelby on Instagram, LinkedIn
• Visit Mirena’s Mod Website and LinkedIn
• Shownotes and podcast production by Caryl Veloso

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EPISODE #2.2: The Heart of Law with R. Brent Wisner

A disarming smile, a humble shrug, a youthful face … At first glance, we have no idea who steps onto The Heart of Law’s virtual stage. As always, our piercing host comes through for us. Mirena introduces us to “The 2 Billion Dollar Man” of the 2021 Southern California Super Lawyers Rising Star magazine and 2021 Clarence Darrow awardee Brent Wisner. Deeply fond of his family—his genius mother, environmental activist father, and four energetic siblings—Brent gives us a pleasant glimpse of an extraordinary upbringing. His deeply-rooted childhood fashioned in him a rare, stalwart foundation most individuals do not have. No wonder Brent approaches life with a backpack full of self-awareness beyond his years. As he talks about his life, we notice one thing: an unseen hand almost always [serendipitously] guides him to the right place at the right time. Sheer luck, is it? Perhaps … but maybe not. With all of the above, coupled with an innate drive to make "meaningful change" in people's lives, Brent simply rises “above the fray.” He walks us through the Monsanto Papers and its controversially “toxic” origins—how it could have completely shattered his budding career “ … Everyone you ever know in mass torts are sitting in this courtroom, and they're all here to watch the execution of Brent Wisner. No one's here to support me.” After a surprising turn of events, the case miraculously works out. Brent makes history.

From the high profile case, Johnson vs. Monsanto Co. accidentally falling on his lap (and winning it, against all odds), to the Pilliod vs Monsanto Co. and all the other causes he fights for (as Mirena puts it), Brent just consummately tries to “right a wrong.” He gives sage advice to young lawyers, by telling them to, first, align themselves with seasoned litigators; second, “push cases to trial and state court.” Why? Because “ … Inventory settlements need to stop. Obviously, this is hurting my bottom line! Inventory settlements help my firm. We always settle higher than other people because we can try the case and we're usually heavily involved. But I think there needs to be a return to the global settlement model.” He dislikes politics, inventory settlements, hypocrisy in the MDL diversity leadership structuring. The bottom line: our principled Brent Wisner continues to make an indelible mark in this high-stakes legal climate. He is unpretentious, believes in action, and loves helping people. He says, “I just got dumb, s lucky.” Maybe happenstance approaches Brent more frequently than others. Perhaps it’s just because of how he fundamentally approaches life. Now that we've met someone like Brent, who says: “Youth is wasted on the young?”***

EPISODE SURVEY:

• [00:06:46] - [00:14:30] Brent Rude Awakening in College
• [00:18:42] - [00:22:41] Self-discipline
• [00:46:58] - [00:52:29] Preparing for Monumental Moments
• [01:12:53] - [01:17:23] Young Does Not Mean Unqualified
• [01:26:07] - [01:35:46] How Brent Would restructure Mass Torts
• [01:43:13] - [01:48:30] Brent's Take on Women & Law

QUOTABLE QUOTES:

• I honestly believe … that making a decision, whatever it is, is better than just not acting.
• If you're going to do something that you think is wrong, you either don't do it or knowingly know what you're doing and face the consequences of your own actions.
• Get to trial as often and as fast as you can. It's literally the only thing that matters. Win, lose, or draw. It will push the case toward a settlement. That's just the truth of it.
• I do believe in the basic idea that you want to help people and you can do that right by getting their case to trial. And if the politics are getting in the way, then f* the politics because it's not the right thing to do and you do that enough.
• I think what needs to happen is men who have positions of influence need to actually give their power over to women and do so routinely.

ABOUT OUR GUEST:

• Vice President, attorney, and a Senior Shareholder of Baum Hedlund Aristei & Goldman in San Francisco
• Youngest attorney in U.S. history to win a multi-million-dollar jury verdict
• Oversees all mass tort litigation, focusing on pharmaceutical product liability, toxic torts, and consumer fraud class actions
• Named “Civil Plaintiffs Trial Lawyer of the Year” by the National Trial Lawyers Association (2019) and one of “America’s 50 Most Influential Trial Lawyers” by The National Law Journal (2019).
• Recognized by the Daily Journal as one of the “Top Plaintiffs Lawyers in California” and as one of the “Top 100 Lawyers in California.”
• Awarded “West Trailblazer” by The American Lawyer (2021) and the Clarence Darrow Award by Mike Papantonio (2021).

LINKS FROM THE SHOW:

• Visit the firm that R. Brent Wisner is a part of: Baum Hedlund Aristei & Goldman
• Connect with Buam Hedlund on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter
• Read an article about how Wisner landed one of the biggest product defect awards in law history
• Recommended Book: The Monsanto Papers by Carey Gillam
• Visit Mirena’s Mod Website and LinkedIn
• Shownotes and podcast production by Caryl Veloso

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EPISODE #2.1: The Heart of Law with Paul Farrell

The Heart of Law’s second season debuts with a forcible gale as Paul Farrell shares the mic with Mirena Umizaj. Respected by his contemporaries as the vanguard against the opioid scourge, our keen host deconstructs the rife ways propelling Paul to fly in the face of titan cases. Jumping immediately into the deep-dive, they weigh in on the steady, impressive rise of women in the legal field. Utilizing zoo animals and oceanic metaphors, Paul and Mirena contemplate what to expect from the diverse personality types holding the legal empire together. All the while deconstructing the indelible mark of two distinct paradigm shifts in the industry.

Getting into the show's crux, Mirena asks Paul about his journey through the colossal MDL, National Prescription Opiate Litigation he took on. He recounts Eric Eyre’s investigative journalism expose (winning him the 2017 Pulitzer Prize), the three women whose stories made an impact on the prescription opioid epidemic (winning them an Academy Award), the horrific 780 million pain pills sold in a six-year window, the 20% infants born addicted to opium every year, and multifarious other situations spurring this gorgonian case that began in Huntington, West Virginia. Aligning forces with Mike Papantonio and Russell Budd, along with states like Ohio and Kentucky, Paul waged one of the biggest legal battles this nation has known. Anticipating the release of the documentary, The Bellwether, produced by Clay Tweel (a filmmaker who followed Paul throughout the four-year case) and a positive verdict in early 2022—no matter the outcome—he looks straight ahead.

We hear his frustration as he revisits Nixon’s Environmental Protection Act, decades of presidents’ shifting promises, insidious political agendas, staggering Congressional regulations all leading to the Coal and Steel Mining Industry’s demise in West Virginia—leaving hundreds jobless in its wake. Clearly disenchanted at the hypocrisy of the US government building fossil fuel-burning power plants in Iraq and Afghanistan, while “putting coal companies out of business and … [not] even hav[ing] the decency to reimburse their pension funds,” we clearly grasp why he ran for office in the 2016 Presidential Elections with a mere $2,500.00. Despite his loss, Paul beat Hillary Clinton by 113 votes in Mingo County, West Virginia, ranking second place. Mirena proudly reminds him of his ineffaceable mark, influencing change in the CDC’s guidelines and standards of care. What’s next for our champion? Without batting an eye, he says: “Google. The single largest monolithic monopoly in the history of the world.” All 300 newspapers who implored him to fight for their cause will find an indomitable warrior storming even Olympus itself.

EPISODE SURVEY:

• [00:06:52] Paul and Mirena discuss the growth and future of women in leadership positions.
• [00:36:08] Lawyers and Lions? Listen as Paul draws comparisons of the characteristics in the legal industry and lion packs.
• [00:42:14] Discover who Paul Farrell is and what inspires him.
• [01:03:17] Opioid litigation is more than a project to Paul; it is of major personal importance. Find out why here!
• [01:15:22] Paul recounts his experience running for President of the United States.

ABOUT OUR GUEST:

• Founding member of Farrell & Fuller, LLC, in San Juan, PR.
• Focused his practice on the opioid litigation and filed some of the first diversion cases in the country.
• Regarded as a pioneer and authority on the diversion claims directed against the opiate prescription drug manufacturers, distributors, and dispensers.
• Considered one of the premier trial lawyers in southern West Virginia with experience prosecuting medical malpractice cases, birth trauma cases, and negligent credentialing cases.
• Appointed Co-Lead Counsel of MDL 2804 styled, In re National Prescription Opiate Litigation.
• Named West Virginia Trial Lawyers Association Member of the Year (2002).
• Past President of the West Virginia Association for Justice (2011-2012).

LINKS FROM THE SHOW:

• Swing by Paul’s practice: Farrell & Fuller, LLC
• Read up on some of Paul’s articles
• Paul’s Socials: Facebook and Twitter
• Visit Mirena’s Mod Website and LinkedIn
• Shownotes and podcast production by Caryl Veloso

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Punctuating the first season of The Heart of Law, Mirena invites the perfectly sanguine and finely enlightened guest, Ilya Lerma, into the show. Our riveting anchor calls Ilya the New Age Lawyer, and the title fits her well.

Ilya gives us a backdrop of a picturesque childhood entrenched with philosophy and a keen awareness of others. Nurtured by accomplished and astute parents who lovingly raised her to have a sentient worldview beyond her youth, she saw life through the eyes of Kant, Jung, Hume, among other empiricists and rationalists who later influenced her adult life. Deeply transformed by CC Zane’s Spiritual Alchemy, Ilya considers the “material universe [as] a manifestation of the metaphysical universe,” perceiving everyday pressures as mere tools of refinement “into spirit and transcendence.” She views the personal and professional pressure of the daily grind as the “alchemical furnace,” effectively used by the universe to refine her intuition, her consciousness, her humanity. While she acknowledges her law practice as “a little unorthodox,” we know Ilya is as endearing as they come—regularly earthing (removing shoes for one’s soles to commune with the earth), faithfully meditating, and gently pursuing vivid connections with everyone. With the soul of a seeker, she understands the intrinsic value of showing trustworthiness, perceiving that authenticity makes for meaningful work, relationships, and existence.

Into the deep dive, Ilya leads us through the fascinating world of Trial Structure, a scientifically systematized method of taking, streamlining, and organizing information from plaintive cases, so lawyers know how to efficiently "recognize predictable patterns of … attack [and] anticipate them." Ilya runs this company alongside her mentor and friend, Alejandro Blanco. With a prolific team of seasoned trial lawyers, they prepare inexperienced colleagues to handle the complexities of a case and more. As the conversation continues, Mirena and Ilya discuss the impact women have in the law industry. With Ilya as the current president of the Arizona Trial Lawyers Association—the first woman to hold office in 20 years—she stays at the forefront representing women who influence the “changing landscape” of their profession. They touch on organic feminine allegiances, unique client advocacy, versatile plaintiff representations, all driven by the capable female id. WIth minds in perfect sync, the two indomitable women consider a promising future for themselves and their contemporaries.

Ilya bewitches us completely. She loves life. She loves others. She loves herself—inviting us all to do the same. Fearless love “ … it’s always there, and there's never any fear that you're going to [fall] short.” That’s one transcendent edict bringing The Heart of Law’s first season to a sublime close.

EPISODE SURVEY[00:18:54] - Taking ownership of your life
[00:32:53] - Improving family life
[00:41:15] - Ilya’s unorthodox approach to practicing law
[00:44:02] - Introducing trial structures
[01:00:05] - Ilya’s future career endeavors
[01:12:46] - Importance of women being ambitious in law
[01:24:57] - Benefits of self-discovery in the professional world

QUOTABLE QUOTES“You can blame [people] all you want, or you can figure out what it is you need to do to fix yourself to get on a path that's going to give you some meaning so that you don't keep repeating these unhealthy patterns.”
“Surrendering your choices to somebody else to dictate your life only means that you then have someone to blame when your life doesn't turn out the way you want it to.”
“If your life doesn't look like [how] you want it to, own it a hundred percent. It's your responsibility.”
“Talk to yourself as you would a friend.”
“You don't have to do it all today.”
“Just get up. You just got to beat it one more time.”
“My journey to becoming more self-aware and much more of a conscious being has shown itself more and my parenting than anything else.”
“Communicating is communing. And we forget that … not only do I commune with people [and] with my children, but I have a communion within myself. And it's deeply gratifying.”
“ When you are able to love [yourself], you truly love everybody.”
“We’re going to have to rethink the business of law “
“In order to be a great lawyer, you have to be adventurous. You have to try a lot. You have to be open to everything, because the people that you're going to encounter in your practice [and represent], are people that have had… a very colorful life. And unless you understand who they are, you can't possibly represent them correctly.”

ABOUT OUR GUEST

• Attorney at Law, Trial Coach, and Consultant at Ilya Law
• President-Elect of the Arizona Trial Lawyers Association
• Recently obtained a $20 million settlement in the state of California
• Speaker for the Arizona Advanced Trial Advocacy Fall 2021 Conference
• Recipient of several honors and awards, including Arizona Trial Lawyer-Volunteer Lawyer of the Year (2014), Featured Speaker Arizona Association for Justice, Trial Advocacy Conference (2014), Arizona Latina Women in Business panelist (2012), Clean Technologies, "Fresh-Faces" Presenter and Award Recipient (2010)
• Author of several published works and novels

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

• Swing by Ilya’s practice in Arizona
• Here is more on Trial Structure
• Books Ilya recommends: The Immortality Key by Brian Muraresku, Mastery of Love by Miguel Ruiz, and Deeply influenced by C.C. Zain
• Check out Ilya’s latest, big win
• Learn more about the Arizona Trial Lawyers Association
• Visit Mirena’s Chic Website and LinkedIn
• Shownotes and podcast production by Caryl Veloso, Founder & COO of Almond Tree Writers' Ink, LLC

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How, indeed, do we “turn our back from the bull?” Interestingly enough, world-renowned Mike Papantonio一also known as America’s Lawyer一tells us how. In this deep-dive, Mirena and Mike (aka Pap) shoot the breeze on the many nuances of lawyering and life. Kudos to our sophic anchor for tracking down one of the most influential and versatile attorneys in our country.

With her gift of gab, Mirena introduces us to the award-winning torts attorney, multi-media talk-show host, National Trial Lawyers co-owner, Mass Torts Made Perfect conference founder/co-owner, NW Florida waterways advocate (with Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., no less!), athlete, musician, pilot, fiction author extraordinaire all rolled in one … What can’t Pap do? Interestingly enough, the diversity and excellence of his endeavors attest to the anthem he lives by: “maintaining the quality of life in anything you’re doing.” When he challenges young associates in his firm to participate in their book club (expecting them to read Orwell’s 1984, Hemingway’s Old Man and the Sea, Lescroart’s The Fall, Steinbeck’s Of Mice and Men) so they can broaden their worldview and learn how to genuinely interact with a jury, it seems he has invaluable insight on the human psyche. It looks like he knows the secret to a well-balanced, well-lived life. Even at the apex of his career, he profoundly says with conviction, “You can’t live singularly as a lawyer. That can’t be your only identity.” And live, he does.

Pap shares how he first encountered the love-of-his-life while “dropping a wing,” barely 50 yards from crashing into The Bonanza as he was flying his plane. Beyond saving him from a near miss and after 37 years of marriage with the “fine-looking blonde at the end of the bar,” he quips about an old Chinese proverb, “You got to take care of anybody who saves you … ” The lighthearted conversation continues as Pap brightens when he talks about his daughter, Sarah, who blazes her own trail in trial law. In shows like these, we enjoy the rarity of when we catch a glimpse of someone who can confidently look ahead一secure in his “ability and foresight”一one who disarmingly refuses to grasp life too tightly, too insecurely, too fearfully. He has fame that envelops him, a career that supports him, contemporaries who respect him, friends who enjoy him, a family who loves him. And then we elegantly discover the secret to how we can completely “turn our back from the bull.”

EPISODE SURVEY[00:02:50] Adapting to the pandemic
[00:16:06] Flying on a plane and meeting the love of his life
[00:20:05] The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.
[00:22:02] Mass Tort Made Perfect conference
[00:28:38] The effects of third-party capital
[00:37:13] Improving mass torts for clients

QUOTABLE QUOTES:

• "You either shut down under adversity or you create and you expand under adversity.”
• “You have to do extraordinary things to get extraordinary results. You have to take extraordinary chances.”
• “It's really easy … to get into the same mode where all you're thinking about is what you’re told to think … [your] daddy did it this way, [your] neighbor does it this way and, therefore, this is the only way [you] can do it一It's really dangerous.
• “ Just take a minute; take a breath and look up a little bit higher … to something that is not the norm and try it .. Not only will it change the financial aspect of their practice, but it will also change their excitement in their quality of life.
• “I have a saying … called ‘Turning Your Back on the Bull’ … have enough confidence in who you are and in your ability, and in your foresight, and [in] your vision, [but] if you don't have confidence in there, you will never turn your back on the bull. A great bullfighter does that.”
• "See, that's part of itーof who you are or [who you are] not, and you can't really put on a show. You can't lie to a jury … They'll see through it if it's not genuine."

ABOUT OUR GUEST

• Senior Partner of Levin Papantonio Rafferty, P.A.
• Board Certified Civil Trial Lawyer by the Florida Bar and the National Board of Trial Advocacy
• Host of America’s Lawyer, a television show on RT America, and Co-host of Ring of Fire, a popular radio program.
• Inducted into the National Trial Lawyers’ Hall of Fame (2015) and Former President of The National Trial Lawyers (2012)
• Author of multiple novels, including four motivational books for lawyers and a series of legal thrillers
• Member of The International Academy of Trial Lawyers, The International Society of Barristers, The National Trial Lawyers Association, The American Board of Trial Advocates, The American Justice Association, The Southern Trial Lawyers Association, and The Florida Justice Association
• Recipient of several prestigious awards, including but not limited to, the Compassionate Gladiator Award from the Florida Justice Association (2019), Defender of Justice Award by the American Association for Justice (2015), and the Perry Nichols Award by the Florida Justice Association (2011)

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

• Peek into Mike’s impressive bio and LinkedIn
• Looking for a thrill? Jump into the pages of Pap’s legal thriller series: Law and Disorder, Law and Vengeance, and Law and Addiction
• Educate and Encourage! Here are some more of Papantonio’s works: Resurrecting Aesop - Fables Lawyers Should Remember (2000), Clarence Darrow, The Journeyman - Lessons for the Modern Lawyer (1997), and In Search of Atticus Finch - A Motivational Book for Lawyers (1996)
• Pap’s Radio Show, Ring of Fire in Youtube, Twitter, and Facebook
• Visit Mirena’s Chic Website and LinkedIn
• Shownotes and podcast content management by Caryl Veloso

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In the first-ever, face-to-face episode, Mirena invites business and legal mogul Keith Givens of The Cochran Firm to The Heart of Law. While he calls himself "a custodian of the brand of Johnnie Cochran," faithfully overseeing the 50-year-old Cochran dynasty, Keith is no slouch himself. With a master’s degree in Psychology and another graduate degree in Business from Georgia Tech, his aptitude did not go unnoticed by a professor who corralled him into pursuing law despite his disinterest in the field. Who would have thought a gigantic, old oak tree would pave the way for his accidental success as a plaintiff lawyer?

After four decades of making history with his friends Jack Smith and Johnnie Cochran, they turn the legal world upside-down and inside-out, helping hundreds of clients and winning billions of dollars in settlements. Throughout the show, we listen to Keith paying extraordinary homage to the superstar litigator, Johnnie Cochran. While Keith walks us through Johnnie's fame and courageous battle against cancer, we find ourselves shocked at the otherworldly work ethic of a genius who refused to let death overcome his mission. Keith says, “ … [Johnnie is] our greatest asset and ally.” During the deep dive, our astute host asks Keith to describe the delicate balance between the business of law and the practice of law. We have to agree with Mirena; Keith makes it all look effortless—even after he says, "It's very hard to run 42 law firms in a way that they're all kind of humming together.” After all, who else can say they head 42 successful firms? Meanwhile, even as he talks about the joys of running the conglomeration with his sons (and a few other family members), Keith keenly gives sage advice on risk measurement and management, superior research and preparation, and not having an aversion to courtroom losses. Steadily providing credit to the brand and reputation of his progenitor, Keith gives five core values (or the 5 “C’s”) he fiercely upholds at The Cochran Firm: Commitment, Client-Focused, Compassion, Competence, and Community.As Keith consistently understates his role in the Cochran empire—recalling Johnnie’s humility, motivation, compassion, focus, and dedication to family—we cannot help but admire our modest herald who refuses to call attention to himself. Perhaps, even if he doesn’t care to admit it, he has all these splendid qualities himself. As far as we know, like the old oak tree that marked his journey into law, Keith Givens stands stalwart and steadfast “providing tremendous shade” and deeply rooted into our American way of life.

EPISODE SURVEY

[00:03:09] Humble beginnings and a serendipitous journey to law
[00:12:52] Keith’s friendship and partnership with Johnnie Cochran
[00:35:37] The future of the Cochran firm
[00:40:50] Navigating the balance between litigation and business
[00:54:25] Working as a lawyer alongside two sons
[01:12:32] The five core values of success for trial lawyers

QUOTABLE QUOTES:

• “Our core and our continued focus on what we do well and enjoy is not going to change.”
• “Never risk more than you can afford to lose.”
• “In our firm and in my professional life … my legacy is not nearly as important as my obligation to recognize, promote, protect the brand … and the legacy of Johnnie Cochran … I think what he stood for as a man and what he represented as a lawyer over decades of his service is something that, if I spend the rest of my professional career trying to give that honor and recognition and live up to those standards then that makes me happy.”
• “In order to be successful, you have to be committed to whatever you're going to do.”
• “When you make it, from a business standpoint … you never become bulletproof and invincible because there's always a project that will and can wash you up … ”
• “ … You can't possibly calculate all of the things that could happen over time. So you need to stay humble. You need to stay alert. You need to stay open to all … changes.”
• “Capital is important to success ... you can't do a lot of good if you're not doing pretty well yourself.”
• “You have to understand this is a service industry ... It's not about the lawyer … it's not really about the system. You just have to function within it and use the system [because] it's about the client.”
• “Dial into the community of what you are doing … and not giving back. It's giving. I mean, there should be a level of unconditional giving. Giving back implies that somebody's giving something to you, and you've got to give back. It’s more important to give than it is to think in terms of giving back.”
• “Being a trial lawyer and protecting the right to trial by jury, fighting for the Constitution, everything associated with justice is extremely noble and very right and very good. But if you do not recognize the business aspect of what we do, you're not going to be well enough financially or otherwise, or even develop the infrastructure to best serve the clients.”

ABOUT OUR GUEST:

• Co-founder and Managing Partner of The Cochran Firm P.C.
• Obtained over $1 Billion in case verdicts and settlements for clients, including the largest settlement of an Environmental Case in the U.S.
• Read about Keith’s $700 Million Dollar Settlement
• Largest verdict for a Wrongful Death case in Alabama
• Former President of the National Trial Lawyers (2008), The Alabama Trial Lawyers Association (1999 - 2000), The Alabama Civil Justice Foundation (2001), and the Southeast Alabama Trial Lawyers Association (1994, 1997), Member of the Editorial Board for The Trial Lawyer Magazine and The RoundTable: America’s 100 Most Influential Trial Lawyers (2011, 2012, 2013)

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

• Check out Keith’s killer bio, Instagram, and LinkedIn
• The Cochran Firm and the legend behind the name
• The Cochran Firm’s Instagram
• Visit Mirena’s posh website and LinkedIn
• Quote Card and Thumbnail Design by Luisa de Macedo
• Shownotes and podcast content management by Caryl Veloso, founder of Almond Tree Writers’ Ink, LLC.

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Erudite, strategic, principled ... one can expect nothing less from our next guest, Martin Shellist. Known for his dexterity in both trial law and asset management, Mirena Umizaj invites the sage attorney to discuss the pedagogy of litigation funding.

In this particularly didactic episode of The Heart of Law, Martin and Mirena talk shop. This time, we get a glimpse of the legal finance industry as he expounds on the differences between a traditional bank and a litigation financial firm like Virage Capital Management. Illuminating us on the many uses of capital for litigation, Martin shares invaluable insight on the fiscal discipline and fiscal intelligence that qualifies a potential client; more importantly, we hear the immense ethical responsibilities that go within its processes. As Martin articulates the inner workings of funding the business of law, we learn about fiduciary duty, case inventory, contingency interest, client aggregation, healthy attorney-client relationship, and quickly understand why “educating the marketplace lifts everyone.”

Our incisive host leans in when Martin deconstructs the many challenges—even dangers—a firm may face if they choose legal financiers with mandatory debt service, prepayment penalties, or (worse) those who influence the outcome of a case. While he encourages borrowers to meticulously vett their documentation and avoid using the funds for daily operational costs (instead of the cases), he firmly reiterates the importance of having an accountant (perhaps an ethicist) involved so all transactions are fiscally sound. Throughout the conversation, we realize how Martin runs his company and the high ideals Virage operates by: equitable and upstanding.

As Martin predicts the future direction and specialized evolution of litigation finance, we can’t help but feel relief hearing from someone who cares enough to help us find the right questions and gives us the courage to ask them. Because Martin functions within the cadence of forthrightness, accuracy, and conscientiousness, we intuit that we’ve listened to an unassuming giant whose huge footprint positively shifts the financial paradigm in the legal world.

EPISODE SURVEY[00:03:48] Transitioning into the legal finance world as a veteran attorney
[00:08:35] The key utility of litigation funding
[00:20:05] What Virage looks for in potential clients
[00:28:17] Vital information to know before getting involved in mass torts
[00:39:18] The nitty-gritty of interest and prepayment penalties
[00:47:31] The foundational difference between bank loans and litigation funding
[00:54:04] How to sagaciously handle post-settlement loan repayment
[01:19:02] Clearing up misunderstandings about nonrecourse and recourse loans

QUOTABLE QUOTES

• “What I think lawyers need to look at when taking financing is: ‘It's good that you have a thousand cases, but are you in control of your data? Are you in control of your case?’ ”
• “The mass tort world is a whole different landscape from any other area of law, and it is as much a business as it is the practice of law that you'd ever find.”
• “The lawyers who nurture the money, the ones who invest with an eye towards a return on investment … are the ones who make the most money and are arguably the happiest with it … having fiscal intelligence is helpful.”
• “At the end of the day, we want to see our borrowers succeed, and we give them all the advice we can.”
• “Diversify your portfolio ... I tell lawyers that all the time; don't spend a million on one tort, put three hundred grand into three torts.”
• “When I talk to borrowers, I don't talk to them about making money. I talk to them about who they are … I talk to them about what they need and where they're going.”
• "You'll be far safer ... just shooting for the moon [than] spending money you haven't earned yet."

ABOUT OUR GUEST

• Currently the Managing Director at Virage Capital Management & Founding Partner at Shellist Lazarz Slobin, LLP
• An attorney for 28 years and currently practices law in Texas
• Tenured memberships Houston Young Lawyers Foundation and American Board of Trial Advocates
• Earned the Nation’s Top One Percent award from the National Association of Distinguished Counsel in 2017
• Selected for Texas Super Lawyers from 2008-2021 and Texas Lawyers Rising Stars in 2006

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

• Check out Martin’s super chill bio and LinkedIn
• Visit Mirena’s Chic Website and LinkedIn
• Shownotes and podcast production by Caryl Veloso, Founder & COO of Almond Tree Writers' Ink, LLC’s

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Faithful to the beating rhythm of her show, Mirena Umizaj invites prime among primes, Chris Searcy, to mark the seventh episode of The Heart of Law. As our keen anchor draws us into their heart-rending conversation, we discover an exponent defender true to his legendary name.

Plunging into the deep dive, Chris shares two monumental (yin and yang-like) events, paradoxically defining him and his purpose: “ ‘It was the best of times, it was the worst of times,’ just like A Tale of Two Cities, ” he says. First, Chris reminisces childhood aspirations of becoming a cowboy, a baseball player, and later a gladiator; he takes us back to an idyllic oeuvre of family memories living by the beach and watching ball games, all rivaling a Norman Rockwell painting—that is, until the day his mother's old Fleetwood Cadillac spun out of control on June 1, 1961. His sister, Angie, suffered a traumatizing brain injury and his brother, Henry, lost his life. Almost mysteriously, the day after the tragedy, he met Priscilla, his future bride. Horrifying pain one day and exhilarating bliss the next … Second, Chris takes us years later to Priscilla suffering during the birth of their firstborn son, Henry, and recounts the unnerving details of the roughly mishandled delivery. Unknown to the couple then, the medical negligence eventually caused the mental handicap of their son. Overwhelming elation one moment and crippling helplessness the next.

Shrouded in the mystery of sorrow and joy, these two pivotal events planted seeds of a valiant, purpose-driven career in catastrophic injury law. Sometime during his practice, he encounters two cases mirroring the loss his loved ones faced, lending him the rare opportunity to give the victims unrivaled defense. All for the sake of yielding justice to injured victims—and over four decades of indomitably winning millions in verdicts—Chris breaks record victories year after year and becomes a consummate legend. Alongside legal champions like Bill Colson, J. B. Spence, Murray Sams Jr., Robert J. Beckham, and Ted Babbitt, they become fissures of light calibrating the American justice system, one case at a time.

Chris may not realize it, but he extends beyond his childhood heroes. Better than a cowboy, he becomes the perfect marksman avenging the weak in blazing glory. Better than a baseball player, he epitomizes the slugging outfielder, making perfect home runs out of every case he represents. Better than a gladiator, he salutes the crowd in the arena of justice, facing every courtroom battle with stalwart fearlessness and chanting deeply into our souls: "Morituri te Salutamus." … So with Mirena, we proudly cheer him on.

EPISODE SURVEY

[00:09:41] Two defining moments of Chris’ life that sets his trajectory
[00:10:13] One tragic accident with death echoing through Chris' life to this day
[00:15:51] The hard birth of Chris’ eldest son causing a traumatic brain injury
[00:23:18] When Chris decided to turn to God and the amazing hope he finds
[00:32:00] Navigating the beginnings of a career in law while nurturing a young family
[00:59:23] Deja vu case, part 1
[01:14:06] Deja vu case, part 2
[01:37:12] A law firm refusing the ⅓ cut

QUOTABLE QUOTES:

• “My disgust [of] my fear is greater than my fear.”
• “Intellectually, I knew there was not anything I could do … emotionally, it feels terrible to me that I failed to protect my loved ones ...That’s why I do what I do.”
• “It’s not God’s fault … If He didn’t let accidents happen in the world, we would all be in test tubes. Life would not be fun; [it] would not be exciting no matter what we did. It would make no difference. That would be a horrible way to live.”
• “The most important thing in running any business is to compensate everybody fairly ... If you can get that right, doesn't matter how much you screw up."
• “I love helping people that have been wronged or hurt. Why am I still doing this? I really love it.”
• “It's not God's fault. He's even sadder than I am because he's so much more capable of pain than I am.”
• “I can't let fear into the equation unless there's something that makes sense that I need to stay away from.”
• “I'll be scared to death every time I have some type of challenge or crisis … I can overcome it … with the help of God.“
• “Was I scared to death of every one of those cases that I was trying? You bet! Just as scared as I could be. But I was convinced that I was never going to let that fear affect me.”
• “I don't care what happens going forward; I'm going to give it all I got!”
• “Before we can teach anybody anything, we first need to understand that ourselves.”
• “I think that as far as being great trial lawyers for our clients, I think the professional detachment is way overrated. I think we need to get as attached as we can. We need to try to know what it feels like being in their shoes because we can teach it best when we do.”
• “I got to try three cases with my dad and he was so proud of me that he was the best PR guy anybody ever had. He'd go around telling people, ‘I've been practicing [law] for 40 years and my son was already better than I was.’ He was a great dad.”

ABOUT OUR GUEST: Chris Searcy

• President and CEO of Searcy Denney Scarola Barnhart & Shipley, P.A.
• Vice President of the International Academy of Trial Lawyers Foundation
• Graduated with a Juris Doctor from Stetson University College of Law in the top ten percent of his class
• The youngest lawyer in the nation to get a million-dollar verdict in 1977
• Member of the elite, invitation-only Inner Circle of Advocates
• Recipient of the 2006 War Horse Award
• Honored with the Florida Justice Association’s Perry Nichols Award
• Named in Harvard’s The Best Lawyers in America
• Member of the world-renowned, exclusive International Society of Barristers
• Holds the title of “Lawdragon Legend”
• Senior Fellow of the Litigation Counsel of America
• Serves on the Florida Justice Association’s Constitutional Revision Committee

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

• Visit Mirena’s Chic Website and LinkedIn
• Stop by Mirena & Co.'s LinkedIn
• Listen to The Heart of Law Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify,
• Learn more about Chris Searcy’s company, Searcy Denney Scarola Barnhart & Shipley, P.A.
• Check out Chris’s prestigious awards and affiliations: The War Horse Award, The Perry Nichols Award, Lawdragon Legends’ Hall of Fame, Trial Lawyers Hall of Fame
• Shownotes and podcast content management by Caryl Veloso, Founder & COO of Almond Tree Writers' Ink, LLC

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While summer fills Hollywood screens with powerful, spandex-clad caped crusaders and invincible femme-dynamos, a real-life superwoman, Susan Ramsey sweeps in the studio of The Heart of Law. True to her steadfast form, our compelling anchor, Mirena Umizaj, invites another superlative guest who takes our breath away ...

We meet an unassuming soul in Susan as the ladies begin their easygoing conversation about the surprising benefits of Covid-19, saving “on gas, on driving, and on the environment, and just stay[ing] above the fray.” Their warmth and casual exchange fill the scene even as they discuss the nations’ strained political climate. However, they touch an austere note when the opioid epidemic comes up. We grasp how Susan champions the cause of substance abuse victims by advocating their individualized medical care in lieu of incarceration. Without warning, her inconceivable courage stares us straight in the eye as Susan candidly shares intimate details about rising from the depths of assault and subsequent whiplash of alcoholism and drug addiction. We encounter the despondent darkness she hardly had the strength to battle. With detox, Alcoholics Anonymous, and the deep humility of daily speaking to herself: “I am only sober today … I have to take one day at a time seriously,” she sparsely survives and we grasp her spirit—indomitable and resolute.

Starting her career as a nurse and mentored by Barbara Moynihan (Ph.D., APRN-BC), we hear about Susan’s tenure in a rape crisis program in the ’80s at Yale New Haven Hospital, Connecticut. After a turn of events, she relates how an unusually thick-witted dynamic in the courtroom became a catalyst that gave her the confidence to attain a law degree at the City University of New York. Even after she became a lawyer, Susan felt drawn to the weak and destitute and began devoting herself to harrowing cases like sexual assault, medical malpractice, sober home, substance disorder, catastrophic injury suits, and the like. After decades of giving her time away, pro bono cases, and working alongside Dena Sisk Foman, they began building a reputation of championing causes for victims of abuse and negligence. It’s no wonder she is a proud member of the National Crime Victims Bar Association and a recipient of the Arnold Markle award, among many other community service distinctions.

When Mirena asks Susan what the future holds for her career, without batting an eye, Susan unflinchingly remarks on continuing to make a compounding difference in as many lives as she can—represent victims of negligence as well as survivors of sexual assault and substance abuse. So when Susan suggests for us to make a difference and find work in something we truly love doing, we can’t help but acknowledge the discernment behind her words. Listening to her, we now have the inspiration to take flight, run with the weary, and carry their burdens with grace. In Susan Ramsey, we witness a guardian with grit and mettle in her deepest heart. Incredible.

EPISODE SURVEY:

• [00:06:45] On the most pressing issues in our nation today
• [00:17:06] Battling with substance use disorder
• [00:25:05] A renewed mindset empowering Susan’s to maintain her sobriety
• [00:31:16] Susan’s journey of becoming a nurse and later pursuing law
• [00:31:41] The personal significance behind Susan’s law practice specialties
• [00:44:18] The need for individualized attention in the substance use disorder treatment industry
• [00:47:14] Substance abuse and sexual assault cases through the eyes of a hero
• [01:03:30] Spiritual wellness and making peace with internal demons

QUOTABLE QUOTES:

• “Not everything I think is true...I don’t have control over the thoughts that sometimes invade and attack my brain. What I do I have control over is my response or reaction to it.”
• “part of the foundation of [sobriety] is I have to take one day at a time seriously. I can't do tomorrow yet.
• “There's a lot of prejudice against alcoholics and drug addicts...none of those things are going to
  change until people like me who may not look like a drug addict and an alcoholic start talking about it and saying, ‘I am one.’ "
• “My experience is to give hopefully some inkling that there's hope and that there is recovery.’
• “in terms of my own recovery, in order to keep it, I have to give it away.”
• “I used to think that ‘fearless’ meant the absence of fear. It doesn’t mean that. It means you fearless than you did before”
• “My ability to share my experience and hope with others is one way I stay sober”

LINKS FROM THE SHOW:

• Visit Mirena’s chic Website and LinkedIn
• Susan is a proud member of the National Crime Victim Bar Association
• Check out the book Susan mentioned on different sex-offender profiles: Men Who Rape
• As Susan discussed, the American Society of Addiction Medicine makes efforts to provide individualized care.
• An important part of Susan’s journey to recovery: Alcoholics Anonymous

ABOUT OUR GUEST: Susan Ramsey

• Began as a Registered Nurse in the Intensive Care Unit at Yale New Haven Hospital
• Graduated from City University of New Law School at Queens College
• Delivered seminars to local police departments, universities, and high schools
• Active member of the American Association of Nurse Attorneys, National Crime Victims Bar Association, and American Justice Association
• Affiliated with several Floridian organizations: Palm Beach County Bar Association, Palm Beach County Justice Association, and Florida Justice Association
• Litigates cases on behalf of survivors involving sexual assault and other catastrophic injuries
• Champion of justice for victims of medical negligence and poor substance abuse treatment
• Received the Arnold Markle Award in recognition for work with survivors of sexual assault
• Pro Bono Counsel member of the Florida Association of Recovery Residences Compliance Committee
• Engaged member of the Palm Beach County State Attorney Sober Home Task Force

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Have you ever wondered what it would be like to have the consummate balance of an entrepreneurially sharp yet resolutely calm mind? Well … mystery solved! Our intrepid host, Mirena Umizaj, invites mindfulness paladin, Attorney Joe DiNardo, an incredible source of inspiration and pillar of strength to many in the field of law.

Revisiting his humble beginnings, Joe reminisces about the 1100 square feet home of his childhood. Not expecting to attend college, he almost serendipitously finds himself at Brockport State College and surprises himself as he turns into a mainstay in the dean’s list. Enjoying his undergrad success, he transfers to the University of Buffalo, subsequently attending law school. With so much altruism in his cadence, he starts his career in a “lower economic and African-American part of the city,” teaching part-time at a GED and adult education center—all the while offering his services to an impoverished community who have no means of affording an attorney. Because of all the false arrests and destitute offenses he had to represent, his reputation as a defense attorney flourished. From one mountain to the next Everest, his 26-year career burgeons from personal injury work into the litigation funding company he founded in 2000, Counsel Financial.

Meanwhile, sharing the same interests, Mirena and Joe deep-dives into the zen of mindfulness and spirituality. He impresses us with his stalwart, 4 am meditation habit, and five decades of transcendentally centering oneself to bravely face the many pitfalls life throw his way. As a mindfulness expert, Joe expounds on the foundation, nuances, methods, and health benefits of “sitting” and intentionally drawing strength from a quiet mind. It’s no wonder Joe knows how to find peace even from the tragedy of his wife’s passing.

We hit a hard note as he shares Marcia DiNardo’s bittersweet journey and her brave battle with cancer. Her undue demise in 2015 rocks his world in so many ways. As Joe engulfs us with their beautiful story—the tremendous love and family they shared and the best things he derived from knowing her—we see a successfully prolific yet humble man, seeing our dreary, cimmerian world through cloudless eyes of unabashed hope.

EPISODE SURVEY

[00:13:41] From humble beginnings to major asbestos case building
[00:19:37] On pioneering a new model of lending loans to law firms, known today as Counsel Financial
[00:44:54] An acid trip, ultrasonic hearing, and expanding consciousness
[00:55:55] Joe speaks of his meditation retreat with Baba Ram Dass during his journey to pursue Buddhism and Mindfulness.

[01:20:57] The life-changing practice of non-judgemental mindfulness
[01:31:46] Practicing meditation as a lifeline amid crumbling corporations during the 2009 financial meltdown
[01:38:47] Joe relays his experience of looking death straight in the eye
[01:52:17] On his wife’s battle with pancreatic cancer and being confronted with a sense of mortality once again
[02:08:21] Mindfulness for people in the legal profession

QUOTABLE QUOTES:

• [00:29:28] “Money problems make good people do bad things”
• [00:53:23] “In the beginner’s mind there are many opportunities; in the expert’s there are few...have the beginner’s mind because the beginner’s mind opens you up with all sorts of opportunities”
• [01:15:32] “We have to have that same equanimity for both [pleasant and unpleasant experiences] because it will allow those stronger, more pleasant experiences to arise versus you creating them- by not having an expectation of what it'll look like or feel like or be like.”
• [01:15:32] “Don't judge yourself … by doing that part of the practice- learning non-judgment of yourself- you become less judgmental everywhere in your life.
• [01:27:28] “And that's what the Buddha said in the very first discourse he ever gave...the illness for all of mankind is craving. It's just wanting ... either to hang on to things or wanting to push away the uncomfortable things, it's all just one little thing- craving”
• [02:02:18] “As a caretaker, it’s not our job to do what we think a sick person needs, it’s our job to listen to what they think they need, and to comfort them as best we can.”

ABOUT OUR GUEST: Joe DiNardo

• Founder of Counsel Financial, a commercial lender offering loans and credit lines to law firms.
• Practiced mass tort and personal injury law for 26 years
• Represented thousands of injured plaintiffs, securing multi-million dollar, high-profile settlements.
• Participant in the inaugural retreat at the Insight Meditation Center in Barre, Massachusetts
• Studied with renowned meditation teachers such as Ram Dass, Joseph Goldstein, Sharon Salzberg, Jack Kornfield, and Anagarika Munindra, a highly regarded Bengali meditation teacher.
• Author of Mindfulness Matters: for everyone, a volume containing practical advice on how to embody mindfulness in everyday life.
• Wrote A Letter to My Wife, a dedication to his late wife, Marcia, telling a narrative from her cancer diagnosis to death as well as offering ways to support individuals enduring disease and their loved ones.

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

• Visit Mirena’s Chic Website and LinkedIn
• Purchase Joe’s Books: Mindfulness Matters: For Everyone and A Letter to My Wife
• Another influential book Joe recommends: Zen Mind, Beginner’s Mind
• Check out the company Joe founded, Counsel Financial
• Visit the Insight Meditation Center
• Shownotes and podcast content management by Almond Tree Writers' Ink, LLC’s Founder, Caryl Veloso

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In an emotionally resonant episode, our gracious host, Mirena Umizaj allows us to tune into a heartfelt conversation with topliner, Attorney Danielle Mason, acclaimed for her work in the talcum powder litigation suit. They engulf us in the intimate, modal mixture of Danielle’s rich heritage and family life, business insights and mass tort rhapsodies, harmonious relationships with clients and surprising accolades, and even the bittersweet decrescendo of tragic loss.

Rooted in Montgomery, Alabama, Danielle nostalgically shares her beautiful legacy. As she intones of her brave progenitors, we cannot help but feel a sense of wonder at the family history bequeathed to her. We learn about her extraordinary grandmother, Thelma Smiley, and the remarkable impact she had on our present educational system—how Ms. Smiley played an integral part in the National Colored PTA and Civil Rights movement—spearheading the evolution of diversity, equity, and inclusion we experience in American schools today. With her family as active members of the Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church when Martin Luther King Jr. was the pastor, Danielle concordantly gives us a clear, balanced, and humble perspective, much needed for our times.

Danielle and Mirena set a mellow vibe when they talk about family life and the surprising effects of the Covid-19 pandemic in their every day. Throughout their reflection, we hear what matters most as they put a healthy spin on working from home. Danielle gives us a glimpse of a vibrant family life, sharing how she serendipitously found herself in the legal field after overcoming many personal challenges along the way.

Picking up the cadence, Mirena asks Danielle to enlighten us about the distinguished Harry M. Philo award she received, as well as the inner workings of the mass tort industry. We learn the distinct difference of mass torts from class-action lawsuits, and the controversial Johnson & Johnson talcum powder litigation suit Danielle successfully participated in. As we grasp how personal this case was for our guest, we find ourselves grieved at the sad death of a dear client she befriended (among other illnesses and deaths she handled) and realize how each tragedy modulated any success she received from the case.

At the center of the deep-dive, we hit a sad chord when Danielle shares—for the first time in public—the tragic passing of her father. Regrets, questions, confusion, trauma … How can one even recover from losing a parent in such an unexpected, jarring way? Despite how displaced she feels, we find how she continuously rises from the depths of despondency, paving the way for the awareness of depression and suicide surrounding our current (pandemic-driven) culture. She inspires and encourages us to intentionally reach out to those who suffer from any form of psychological illness.

Through it all, we find nothing flat about our encounter with Danielle. Instead, we see a strong, beautiful woman—a persevering soul singing a hope-filled, angelic aria. With every discordant note life brings her way, her humility and courage turns it around. Danielle's life is a mesmeric symphony, perfectly sustained by an indomitable spirit and love for those she holds dear.

EPISODE SURVEY[00:17:13] Thelma Smiley's accolades in education and invitation to the White House for three sitting presidents, advising them on issues about educational equality and integration.
[00:42:35] This is something that affects thousands and thousands of people across the country.
[00:44:31] Talcum cases and how it personally resonated and affected Danielle in a way no other case has been able to.
[00:59:48] On women, inclusion, and groups meeting better diversity thresholds in the industry.
[01:11:28] About the Harry M. Philo award bestowed to Danielle.
[01:27:47] Danielle talks about her father’s tragic death.

QUOTABLE QUOTES

• “I finally get to be a mom for a minute and that got to be really cool.”
• “What puts all of that into perspective is we are so thankfully healthy… There are some people right now who miss the noise … [but] we've got to come to where we're grateful for the noise because that means it's all right.”
• “[Control] gets to be heavy sometimes because it reinforces something that I already need to let go of, which is this unrealistic expectation to be perfect all the time.”
• “ Don't believe me. Just watch.”
• “Who's to say what the timetable is.”
• "We've come a long way in seeing more of these PSC Groups meeting better diversity thresholds."
• "I also don't think it's the end-all and be-all of what our roles are as advocates. Female, male, whatever there are, there are a lot of different fronts that we can apply this pressure on these cases and there's nothing limiting that."
• "Diversity is extra important, but none of us just want to check a box."
• "We can't be afraid to talk about the suicide story because we know it's happening around us."

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

• Danielle’s Outstanding Bio
• Danielle's prestigious appointment to the Elmiron Federal Multidistrict Litigation (MDL) Leadership Team
• Visit Mirena’s Chic Website and LinkedIn
• Shownotes and podcast content management by Almond Tree Writers' Ink, LLC’s Founder, Caryl Veloso

ABOUT OUR GUEST: Danielle Mason

• Received the Harry M. Philo Award in 2020 for her work on talcum powder litigation, becoming the first black lawyer, and only the third woman, to receive the award since 1992.
• Named in the Lawdragon 500 Leading Lawyers
• Selected as a Super Lawyers “Rising Star” every year since 2014
• Chosen as one of the “10 Best” Attorneys for Alabama by the American Institute of Personal Injury Attorneys
• Included in the 2020 Best Lawyers in America list.

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What happens when the esteemed godfather of mass torts, Howard Nations, decides to hit the town and shoot the breeze with Mirena? Well, of course, we stutter to a stop, sit mesmerized, and hang onto every perfect doctrine he sends our way!

In The Heart of Law’s third episode, our incisive host, Mirena Umizaj enjoys the riveting, first-hand account of Howard's stint as a US Army intelligence officer commissioned as a Russian translator—intercepting cryptic messages from a Soviet naval base in a northern island off Hokkaido, Japan. After eavesdropping on submarines, fleets, and every bit of water traffic for months, life in the military intelligence pretty much set the tone for the disciplined and purposeful life Howard led throughout his 55+ years practicing law.

Howard gives copious, razor-sharp advice on how to survive in the cutthroat mass tort business. Ironically, resisting avarice and the “absolute disregard for money,” with “total expulsion” of materialism charts the course to a successful outcome of a case. Dovetailing that ideology with mental fortitude, depositional ingenuity, strategic witness management, and profound procedural patience, he gives us a basic (even banal) formula of an honorable value-system tested by time. During half of the show, their conversation turns on a sober note as Howard and Mirena immerse us into the complex acquisition of mass tort cases, hundreds of millions of dollars depleted, ethical dilemmas, hedge fund controversies, conflict of interests, lead purchasing, and contentions within the industry. They touch on austere issues like gigantic med-tech and pharma companies distributing defective products, as well as disquieting financial games negatively affecting people's lives.

Inversely, we have an awareness about the meaningful life Howard leads. We hear a deep love for his family, his plight for the weak (he is famed for representing over 300 pro bono cases), and three decades of passionately teaching law. We grasp how he fearlessly copes with a family tragedy, endearing us as he flouts every cynicism life thrusts his way. He shares his knowledge freely, exercises systematically, reads voraciously … all the while, managing to disarm us with his stalwart faith. What a testament to us all. People like Howard make living in this not-so-happy world so worthwhile.

EPISODE SURVEY

• [00:07:02] In the U.S. Army Military Intelligence as a Russian linguist
• [00:12:23] once tort reform happened in Texas, Howard adapted and reinvented himself, starting a mass tort firm and changing the entire game.
• [00:16:35] Howard officially declares himself to be a mass tort lawyer.
• [00:16:57] Adventures with Zyprexa and 78 depositions all over the country.
• [00:21:48] "And they said, 'We'll never pay you a thousand cases!' So I said, 'Okay; then pay me on 999.' "
• [00:41:58] On the Trial Lawyer’s Summit and the Entrepreneurship of Law.

QUOTABLE QUOTES

• " The thing is, you have to have an absolute disregard for money because if you're worried about money, don't get in the mass tort business because [in the industry] there's a complete, total expulsion of money."
• "You have to be fearless because if you're not fearless, you'll worry yourself to death."
• "The outcomes are only as good as what you gather."
• "You have to have skillsets for a trial ... you have to have a lot of skills in depositions because depositions are a crucial part of mass torts."
• You have to be articulate with experts because choosing the right expert [and] getting them prepared … [and] keeping them under control is a major part of mass torts."
• "You have to have the world's greatest patience ... because it's a five-year proposition."
• “I give back by education and by sharing everything.”

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

• Check out Howard’s Fully Loaded Bio
• Swing by Howard’s Practice
• Catch Howard’s NTL Interview of Top 100 Lawyers
• Visit Mirena’s Chic Website and LinkedIn
• Resources Howard recommends: Trial Lawyers College, Trial School
• Show Notes and content management by Almond Tree Writers' Ink, LLC’s Founder, Caryl Veloso

ABOUT OUR GUEST: Howard Nations

• A trailblazer in personal injury and civil litigation, as well as mass tort for over 55 years.
• Leader of the trial bar
• President of The National Trial Lawyers, Texas Trial Lawyers Association, the Southern Trial Lawyers Association, the Belli Society, and the Aletheia Institute
• Five years on AAJ’s Executive Committee
• A pioneer in courtroom technology and the first attorney to have computer-generated liability and medical animations admitted into evidence at trial.
• Co-founded AAJ’s National College of Advocacy
• One of the most sought-after educators in the law profession.
• Howard’s Published Papers, Articles, & Editorials
• Howard’s Awards
• Howard’s Acceptance Speech for Trial Lawyers Hall of Fame Award 2012
• Howard’s Superlative Resume’

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Palpable wisdom fills hyperspace as soon as we meet John Romano—a treasured monarch and esteemed advocate in civil and criminal law. In The Heart of Law’s second episode, our insightful host, Mirena Umizaj, astutely deconstructs the many ways John juggles life, lawyer-hood, and love. Throughout the deep dive, she interacts with the sage trial attorney and strategically positions us to appreciate John’s richly unassuming paradigmatic worldview.

Less than five minutes into the show, John disarms us with his dynamic admission of never angling to retire, hoping to live well over 115 years old! Interestingly, despite a robust practice consuming his professional life, he juxtaposes it by giving us a glimpse into a vibrantly remarkable homelife. He shares priceless delight in attending PTA meetings, coaching sports teams, sitting through award ceremonies, enjoying numerous kids’ events and snow-capped vacations. John invites us into an idyllic family—proudly talking about his grandchildren and four successful sons, Erik, Todd, Chad, & Ryan, and consistently glowing about Nancy, his bride and “angel” of 51 years. Curiously, how has he managed it all?

One secret to his humble success stems from this axiom: “To me, life ... comes down to one word: Relationships.” His non-condescending, approachable posture in dealing and caring for people (from jurors to judges, witnesses to police officers, doctors to nurses, priests/rabbis to nuns, hotel staff to his associate staff) shatters every ruthless stereotype lawyers tend to snag. On mellow reverb, he emphasizes respect and kindness, continually dovetailing it to real success in life and the legal profession. Almost accidentally, he endears us. With John, our inspiration slowly dawns on us as we realize we have somehow taken our seat in the midst of a contemplative servant-leader.

As Mirena pushes deeper into the conversation with John, we discover hard lessons he learned because of poor investments. He vulnerably describes (for the first time in public) the detrimental financial decision he made in constructing an environmentally state-of-the-art corporate building. He shares his deep regret at how the economic loss negatively impacted his family and practice, contrasting it with the relief he felt at the unconditional support his firm received from people who cared. When she asks how (and where) else he directs his “energy and compassion,” he resolutely responds: “You just go at it with everything you've got!” And sure enough, he does.

If John did rule a kingdom, he lends us a picture of a magnanimous monarchy—rich with opportunities, goodwill, conscience, humility, and service. What a privilege to hear someone like him talk about the richness of life. To say John is a rare soul is an understatement indeed . . . and in deed.

WE DISCUSS

• [00:32:15] Energy, compassion, and a better work ethic.
• [00:42:01] Wisdom and the dire consequences of bad decisions.
• [01:13:36] On hosting a seminar that doesn't focus on being a big cocktail party.
• [01:15:33] John revisits this February’s 36th Annual John Romano’s Workhorse Seminar, a seminal convention sponsored by the FJA Research and Education Foundation, which he and Nancy co-produced.
• [01:17:50] A sneak-peak on the 37th Workhorse Seminar
• [01:21:19] Young lawyers and four-speed race cars
• [01:24:39] Mentoring joyfully and in a heartbeat and just a phone call away.
• [01:24:57] About the upcoming 37th Annual Workhorse Seminar and planned mentorship initiative.

QUOTABLE QUOTES

• “To me, life ... comes down to one word: Relationships.”
• “No, the practice of law doesn't consume me. The relationships and the practice of law do. And I love it. And that's why I will never, ever, ever, ever retire. I want to do this forever.“
• “ You have till midnight to sulk when you win a case. You have till midnight to celebrate ... I say to the lawyers: Get it out of your system! ”
• “[Some of] the greatest lawyers that I've known...have been … Kinder, gentler … their goodness just spills out, and to me, that's what makes them good; they're not trying to show everybody [they’re the] smartest or the biggest or the strongest or the fastest . . . [they] take care of people.”
• “It was poor judgments and decisions made by John Romano that made that happen!”
• “It is unnecessary to go off and build an experimental building when I haven't thought through the what-ifs.”
• “I believe extraordinary things are going to happen every day and every week and every month. And they do.”
• “You can be a realist and be an optimist.”
• “When it comes to people, make decisions with your heart.”
• “The most important thing that comes out of a crisis is what you learn about … the way you behaved during the crisis.”
• “Some of the best lawyering I have ever done has been in cases where the verdict came back against our side. And when you've given it everything, you can feel good saying we gave it everything.”

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

• Check-out John's Fully Loaded Kudos
• Swing by John’s Practice
• Visit Mirena’s Interweb Crib and LinkedIn
• Causes John champions: Florida Justice Association, National Trial Lawyers, Mass Torts Made Perfect, Taos Injury Lawyers, AAJ State Trial Lawyers Association, Trojan Horse Method
• Resources John recommends: Trial Lawyers College, Trial School
• Book a free call with FIRESIDE to talk about your marketing needs.
• Show Notes by Almond Tree Writers' Ink, LLC’s Founder, Caryl Veloso

ABOUT OUR GUEST: John Romano’s Books & Publications

• John Romano, Opening Statement: Winning the Jury, PESI Law Publications, 2004
• John Romano, The Deposition Field Manual, PESI Law Publications, 2002
• John Romano, Strategic Use of Circumstantial Evidence, Kluwer Law Book Publishers, Inc., September 1986
• John Romano, Co-Author/State Editor, Depositions, (Fla. Edition), Knowles Law Book Publishing Company, 1984

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An indomitable “force of nature,” former judge and luminary in Trucking Litigation, Joseph A. Fried, sweeps us away in The Heart of Law’s podcast debut. Our prolific host, Mirena Umizaj, picks the perfect guest to launch her show. She engages the inspiring powerhouse and discovers the many elements that propel, energize, and move him.

Covid-19 has certainly brought significant changes to Joe’s life and practice. With depositions and hearings done in Zoom meeting rooms, he remarks on the substantial depreciation in the quality of human engagement within his practice. However, he positively accentuates the advantages of time saved at traveling less—how it unexpectedly improved his health and time spent with his family. Despite its many distractions, he remarks on the surprisingly special kind of intimacy and organic camaraderie that an informal internet meeting does for his clients.

Mirena continues to ask Joe thought-provoking questions about his evolution as a litigator and as a human being overall. He shares invaluable life lessons he has learned in three decades of working in such a ruthless, highly driven field. Joe shares his resolution to take candid inventory of his life and his profound decision to live honestly. He reveals deep and meaningful insights, expounding on the hard choices to preserve his family, marriage, faith.

The two subsequently unpack the common, negative stereotypes that plague lawyers. While Joe considers the necessity of emotional restraint for litigators (even doctors) to perform their job effectively, he weighs the value of human decency and meaningful connection with his clients—making sure he builds credibility and authentic relationships with them.

Joe gives homage to his courtroom heroes Gerry Spence, Ben Williams, and Josh Carterton how much their work has influenced him, his thriving practice, and causes close to his heart. With cogent transparency and optimism as motifs throughout the podcast, we find a refreshingly new perspective into the legal world through the eyes of Mirena and Joe.

EPISODE SURVEY:

• 00:04:15 Discover how Joe makes the most out of working remotely & how his practice shifted gears since the global pandemic.
• 00:19:05 Joe expounds on the necessary changes he's made within himself as he became more self-aware in his profession and life.
• 01:16:51 Learn the many benefits of neurolinguistics and psychodrama.
• 01:20:31 Joe discusses everything he has learned and the benefits of Trial Lawyers College for any attorney and living a life of balance and the 80-20 rule
• 01:49:43 Mirena asks Joe about the Academy of Truck Accident Attorneys, the organization he co-founded with Michael Leizerman.

QUOTABLE QUOTES:

• “... the first order of business in jury selection is to create a safe space… for a juror.”
• “The willingness [and] the courage to be vulnerable . . . when you exercise that courage is the opposite of what I thought would happen. I thought that I would be rejected, labeled, ostracized, pushed away. And what I found instead was people were drawn to that courage.”
• “ … in a lot of ways my whole life has been about trying to figure out my place in the world, why I'm here . . . and what's my purpose … I've struggled with doubts about self-worth . . . and I don't think I'm alone.”
• “As people get so caught up on the surface, we forget to see what's underneath it all.”
• “It is all about challenging the paradigms that we were taught in law school.”
• “And there [are] so many filters everywhere . . . trying to appear one way and really be another way.”
• “I believe that the party with the most credibility at the end wins almost invariably.”
• “It's a struggle for honesty in the imperfection that matters.”

LINKS FROM THE SHOW:

• Check-out Joe’s Fully Loaded Kudos
• Swing by Joe’s practice: Atlanta Truck Accident Lawyers | Fried Goldberg LLC
• Visit Mirena’s Interweb Crib and LinkedIn
• Joe's Book: Understanding Motor Carrier Claims
• Other Recommended Books: The Four Agreements, The Seat of the Soul
• Book a free call with FIRESIDE to talk about your marketing needs
• Show Notes by Almond Tree Writers' Ink, LLC’s Founder, Caryl Veloso

ABOUT OUR GUEST: *Joseph A. Fried*

• Partner with Fried Goldberg LLC in Atlanta, GA
• Specializes in Trucking Litigation and is licensed to practice in GA, FL TN, TX, NY; he has handled cases in about 40 States.
• Former Judge of Fulton County Magistrate Court (1994-2014) and a former police officer.
• Accomplished $1 Billion in recoveries
• Authored 2 books and several Trial Guides DVDs on Trucking Litigation, educating attorneys regarding trucking claims to nationwide; Joe is about to release the third book for police officers on Standards of Care for Safety Driving Trucks
• Attended Trial Lawyers College in 2002 & joined the faculty in 2005
• Co-founded the Academy of Truck Accident Attorneys in 2015
• Lead efforts to get Truck Accident Law to a fully recognized specialty of the ABA (American Bar Association) in 2017
• Former Department Chair of National Board of Truck Crash Attorneys and National Board of Trial Advocacy
• Credited with developing many of the Best Practices used by lawyers nationally in Truck Accident Investigation and Truck Accident Litigation.

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Legal financial expert, Mirena Umizaj connects us to the legal industry by introducing us to the edifying justice warriors who change the world because of the work they do. Seeking to disprove the popular stereotype of the cold, disingenuous, and calculating litigator, Mirena opens our eyes to how these fascinatingly erudite litigators function with deep compassion and an uncompromising moral compass. She provides an unscripted platform for them to share the challenges and joys of operating a legal practice, reveal what drives and inhibits them in their profession, and express their humanity in a high-stakes industry. With Mirena, we discover inspiring individuals who continue to make remarkable impact on the American Justice System.