Stay ConnectedThe Trial Lawyers College Podcast talks to leading attorneys, TLC board members, and faculty about the ideas and the issues that are affecting trial lawyers today.
The TLC podcast covers courtroom strategy, communicating with jurors, connecting with clients, methods that drive success, balancing healthy relationships with a busy practice and more.
TLC faculty member since 2016, Thomas Davenport, discusses the importance of communication exercises and tactics that explore the range of human perspectives that impact everything from the classroom and the courtroom. Thomas takes us on an exploratory journey about standing up for others even when it’s tough, developing hobbies that reduce stress, and sharing client’s experiences with authenticity.
Come and listen to Robin and Dusty tell the story of a man who suffered racial discrimination and hear their strategies and exploits of trying a case in Federal Court that is so rural that the judge doesn't even hold motion hearings in the town where the Federal courthouse is located. See how they overcame their fear of trying a case in a rural, conservative area and gained insights from their experience.
Come and hear how Mart Harris and Patrick McLain overturned a federal judges ruling granting JNOV at the 5th circuit court of appeals.
In a remarkable streak of victories, Mark Hartman, a 2019 TLC graduate, secured eight consecutive not guilty verdicts, illustrating the power of connection over persuasion in the courtroom. Listen as Mark details the power of connecting as the messenger instead of forcing jurors to abandon their most deeply held beliefs in the 15 minutes he has with them.
Jeff Watson, Director of Post Master's Doctor of Nursing Practice program at Texas Tech University's Health Science College, discusses his experience in training nurses on being present for patients including providing a good death experience. Jeff explains how the often called "soft skills" are more accurately called essential skills like compassion and empathy. "We're all just walking each other home".
Join Eli Heller, a recent TLC graduate from 2023, as he details his journey from heartbreaking loss to a recent trial victory after deepening his understanding of openness in the courtroom. Eli describes how he created genuine connections broke down barriers between him, his client, and the jurors.
Patricia Anderson, a 7 stepper graduate of TLC, details her experiences with avoiding burnout by having fun, unplugging, and keeping things simple in her off time. Patricia shares personal strategies for taking care of oneself, having fun, and avoiding burnout—all while staying authentic. From cultivating hobbies to talking to tomato plants and chicken eggs, she discusses how these practices help sustain her energy and enthusiasm. Tune in to discover how creating a nurturing home base and embracing simple pleasures can lead to a more fulfilled and resilient professional life.
Mike Watson, first joining TLC in 2019, discusses the critical importance of building deep connections with clients in legal practice. In this episode, he emphasizes the necessity of comprehensive communication—knowing the worst and best scenarios—ensuring there are no surprises in court. Mike shares insights on the meticulous process of discovering a client's story and finding the key elements that resonate with the jury, reinforcing the idea that understanding and transparency are vital for successful advocacy.
Join Mike Smith, a 2019 TLC Graduate and recent addition to the faculty in 2023, as he unpacks the lessons from a recent workshop on a medical malpractice case. In this episode, Mike emphasizes the critical importance of forging connections—not just between attorneys and their clients but also between the jury and the client's story. He shares a poignant story about his client whose connection to current events was severed due to a medical issue, highlighting the human aspects that often sway courtroom outcomes. Tune in to learn how empathy and understanding are key in legal advocacy.
Join Mike Smith, a 2019 TLC Graduate and recent addition to the faculty in 2023, as he unpacks the lessons from a recent workshop on a medical malpractice case. In this episode, Mike emphasizes the critical importance of forging connections—not just between attorneys and their clients but also between the jury and the client's story. He shares a poignant story about his client whose connection to current events was severed due to a medical issue, highlighting the human aspects that often sway courtroom outcomes. Tune in to learn how empathy and understanding are key in legal advocacy.
Carlos Concepcion, a law professor in Puerto Rico, dives deep into an innovative exercise for mastering closing arguments. He discusses a compelling piece of video evidence showing an encounter between a man and a woman, which is rich with facts supporting arguments from both sides. The exercise involves pausing the video to identify which facts bolster the closing argument, offering a dynamic and interactive learning experience. Join Carlos as he explores the nuances of argumentative structure and evidence analysis in legal training.
Join Ron Estefan, a dedicated TLC graduate and faculty member since 2005, as he shares valuable insights from the latest TLC events. Ron discusses the recent gatherings in Houston, and the challenges and experiences from the latest event in Las Vegas, New Mexico, including unexpected weather issues. He emphasizes the significance of TLC's home base and the vibrant working group in Houston, highlighting how these elements contribute to the growth and effectiveness of the TLC community. Dive into the details as Ron connects the dots between community, location, and legal education.
In this revealing episode, Tim Semmerling, a participant at the 2010 Defense of the Damned event, discusses his latest book, 'My Enemy, My Defender.' Tim shares his extraordinary experiences at the 9/11 War Court, where he defended clients under the most challenging conditions, exploring themes of morality, betrayal, and the human side of legal battles. Join us as Tim reflects on the personal and professional journeys that shape the lives of those who operate at the front lines of high-stakes law.
Register for a TLC event!
https://triallawyerscollege.org/trial-skills-courses#cle-credits-section
Dive into a tribe where trust isn’t just a word—it’s our foundation. In our community, you’re more than a legal professional; you’re a valued member of a supportive and empowering network. Here, every course and every conversation is an opportunity to strengthen ties, share wisdom, and grow together in our mission to champion justice with unwavering passion and integrity.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of something bigger than yourself. Explore our course list today and discover how you can contribute to and benefit from the collective knowledge and camaraderie of our unique community. Join us and see how together, we can achieve more than we ever thought possible.
John Sloan, President of the Trial Lawyers College, recounts his recent victory in a Taos County trial in New Mexico, where he secured a $15 million verdict. In this episode, John shares the compelling narrative he presented to the jury that led to this significant win.
Register for a TLC event!
https://triallawyerscollege.org/trial-skills-courses#cle-credits-section
Dive into a tribe where trust isn’t just a word—it’s our foundation. In our community, you’re more than a legal professional; you’re a valued member of a supportive and empowering network. Here, every course and every conversation is an opportunity to strengthen ties, share wisdom, and grow together in our mission to champion justice with unwavering passion and integrity.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of something bigger than yourself. Explore our course list today and discover how you can contribute to and benefit from the collective knowledge and camaraderie of our unique community. Join us and see how together, we can achieve more than we ever thought possible.
Mike Smith, Mike Watson, and Minerva Steele join us to celebrate and share their recent $5.25 million verdict. They honed their strategy for this case at a recent Trial Lawyers College event in Tulsa, where they collaboratively workshopped the details and refined their approach.
Register for a TLC event! https://triallawyerscollege.org/trial-skills-courses#cle-credits-section
Dive into a tribe where trust isn’t just a word—it’s our foundation. In our community, you’re more than a legal professional; you’re a valued member of a supportive and empowering network. Here, every course and every conversation is an opportunity to strengthen ties, share wisdom, and grow together in our mission to champion justice with unwavering passion and integrity.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of something bigger than yourself. Explore our course list today and discover how you can contribute to and benefit from the collective knowledge and camaraderie of our unique community. Join us and see how together, we can achieve more than we ever thought possible.
Lydia Hanson, fresh from her inaugural experience at a Trial Lawyers College event, shares how the encounter profoundly transformed both her legal practice and personal life. Lydia delves into the unique aspects of the event, from sharing a room with a fellow attendee to engaging deeply in psychodrama techniques, and participating in intensive, topic-focused sessions. Join us as she explores the significant impact these experiences had on her approach to law and her understanding of herself.
Register for a TLC event!
https://triallawyerscollege.org/trial-skills-courses#cle-credits-section
Dive into a tribe where trust isn’t just a word—it’s our foundation. In our community, you’re more than a legal professional; you’re a valued member of a supportive and empowering network. Here, every course and every conversation is an opportunity to strengthen ties, share wisdom, and grow together in our mission to champion justice with unwavering passion and integrity.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of something bigger than yourself. Explore our course list today and discover how you can contribute to and benefit from the collective knowledge and camaraderie of our unique community. Join us and see how together, we can achieve more than we ever thought possible.
In this enlightening episode, we welcome Austin Kaplan, a dedicated employment and civil rights attorney based in Austin, TX, and a long-time listener, first-time caller to our podcast. Austin discusses his work spanning breach of contract, overtime violations, and civil rights cases. He shares his journey of learning and gathering insights from the TLC community, emphasizing how the wisdom from the tribe enhances his practice and advocacy. Tune in to hear how Austin integrates the rich knowledge from the TLC podcast into his daily legal battles to better serve his clients and uphold justice.
Register for a TLC event! https://triallawyerscollege.org/trial-skills-courses#cle-credits-section
Dive into a tribe where trust isn’t just a word—it’s our foundation. In our community, you’re more than a legal professional; you’re a valued member of a supportive and empowering network. Here, every course and every conversation is an opportunity to strengthen ties, share wisdom, and grow together in our mission to champion justice with unwavering passion and integrity.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of something bigger than yourself. Explore our course list today and discover how you can contribute to and benefit from the collective knowledge and camaraderie of our unique community. Join us and see how together, we can achieve more than we ever thought possible.
Join us as Hilary Hammell, a dedicated plaintiff-side employment lawyer and two-time attendee of the Trial Skills Foundation, shares her compelling journey into employment law. Starting with her early experiences working alongside laborers in Yakima, Washington, Hilary delves into the profound impact of advocating for workers' rights. She explores how helping laborers speak out against unfair employers and poor work conditions has not only changed their lives but also restored their dignity. Tune in to discover how Hilary's commitment to justice and human connection drives her legal practice.
Register for a TLC event!
https://triallawyerscollege.org/trial-skills-courses#cle-credits-section
Dive into a tribe where trust isn’t just a word—it’s our foundation. In our community, you’re more than a legal professional; you’re a valued member of a supportive and empowering network. Here, every course and every conversation is an opportunity to strengthen ties, share wisdom, and grow together in our mission to champion justice with unwavering passion and integrity.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of something bigger than yourself. Explore our course list today and discover how you can contribute to and benefit from the collective knowledge and camaraderie of our unique community. Join us and see how together, we can achieve more than we ever thought possible.
Michael Bristow recounts his recent journey at a Trial Lawyers College event in Tulsa, OK, illuminating the profound impact of storytelling through music and sound. He reflects on the emotional resonance and universal connection these elements foster, underscoring their ability to unite us all.
Register for a TLC event!
https://triallawyerscollege.org/trial-skills-courses#cle-credits-section
Dive into a tribe where trust isn’t just a word—it’s our foundation. In our community, you’re more than a legal professional; you’re a valued member of a supportive and empowering network. Here, every course and every conversation is an opportunity to strengthen ties, share wisdom, and grow together in our mission to champion justice with unwavering passion and integrity.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of something bigger than yourself. Explore our course list today and discover how you can contribute to and benefit from the collective knowledge and camaraderie of our unique community. Join us and see how together, we can achieve more than we ever thought possible.
Dustin Collier, a recent participant in a Trial Skills event, shares insights from his inaugural experience at the Trial Lawyers College, contrasting it with previous Continuing Legal Education (CLE) events he’s attended. He delves into the distinctive focus on connection, storytelling, and the emphasis on humanity that sets TLC’s events and courses apart, highlighting how these elements uniquely shape the learning experience.
Register for a TLC event!
https://triallawyerscollege.org/trial-skills-courses#cle-credits-section
Dive into a tribe where trust isn’t just a word—it’s our foundation. In our community, you’re more than a legal professional; you’re a valued member of a supportive and empowering network. Here, every course and every conversation is an opportunity to strengthen ties, share wisdom, and grow together in our mission to champion justice with unwavering passion and integrity.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of something bigger than yourself. Explore our course list today and discover how you can contribute to and benefit from the collective knowledge and camaraderie of our unique community. Join us and see how together, we can achieve more than we ever thought possible.
Brian McCallister returns to go over some of the methods he used for a recent trial victory. Brian describes, in vivid detail, his voir dire tactics as well as a video he recorded to share his client’s daily routine with jury members.
Recent TLC attendee, Kyra Blankenship, describes her experience at the most recent Trial Lawyers College event Trial Skills Foundation in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Kyra details what it’s like to participate in psychodrama for the first time and how big of a role discovering the story is to represent someone and tell their story.
Recent TLC graduate from the 2022, Savannah Rand, details a recent trial experience and how TLC methods helped open up the case before the trial and inside the courtroom. Savannah explains how effective and familiar vocabulary helped connect the jurors to the case and ultimately shaped their verdict.
Brian McCallister, TLC graduate from the class of 1995, details his recent solo trial case and his experience discovering the story and loving his client. Brian explains the peaks and valleys that come with trying a case solo; his first since 1999. “Even an old man can get a $1 million + verdict” - Rafe Foreman.
2011 TLC graduate and faculty member since 2019, Carson Runge, discusses burnout and frequent paranoia with opposing council after long periods of practicing law. Carson explains how fighting insurance companies and changes with courtroom procedures since COVID have made the last 4 years some of the most difficult of his life. Further, Carson elaborates on how experiences with nature, closeness with family members, and the occasional yoga session keeps him grounded and helps him fight fatigue.
2013 TLC graduate and TLC staff member since 2015, Jacqui Ford, joins Rafe Foreman to reminisce about the recent “Taste of TLC” in Tulsa, OK. Jacqui tells us about her recent experiences in regard to stressfulness, forgiveness, and grace.
2019 TLC graduate, Sammy Duncan, talks to us about a recent trial win regarding a child victim. Sammy describes creativity in the court room and the ups and downs that comes with judges decisions regarding motion in limine.
TLC President John Sloan talks about the current state and future endeavors of the Trial Lawyers College. John touches on everything from our new Executive Director, Becky Barlow, messaging to lawyers curious about registering for an event, and the possibility of a new TLC home base.
1994 graduate and board member from the beginning of the Trial Lawyers College, Cyndy Short, explains the importance and reasons for TLC having a Women’s Regional Seminar. Cyndy details the experiences from last year’s seminar while highlighting some of the staff included in this years Women’s Regional Seminar at Scarritt Bennett in Nashville, TN on February 22-25, 2024.
Welcome to the TLC Podcast Zulfikar Wafai, Rafe Foreman’s first intern in 2011 and public defender in Golden, Colorado. Zulfikar discusses his firm stances on work life balance and how being the best version of himself, personally and professionally, creates the environment to thrive.
Introducing Becky Barlow, graduate of Washburn University in Topeka, Kansas, as she takes on the mantle of Executive Director of the Trial Lawyers College. Listen as Rafe extends a welcome from the TLC tribe to Becky as we hear about her law career journey.
Trial Lawyer and Law Professor at American International Law School in Puerto Rico, Carlos Concepcion, details his experience as host for the recent Trial Lawyers College case consult in Puerto Rico. Carlos goes deep into the processes starting at the warm up, all the way to identifying the villain.
2017 graduate and faculty member, Jason Sosa, describes his recent transition from criminal defense to more civil trial work. Jason elaborates on how supportive and giving the Trial Lawyers College tribe is; also, a recent case consult purchased through TLC fundraising.
2023 TLC graduate Matthew Sahag from Des Moines, Iowa, shares his experience with a recent case consult in Puerto Rico purchased through TLC fundraising. Matthew details his journey that lead to the Trial Lawyers College and how the methods he’s learned there have shaped his practice.
Matt Sahag meets with Rafe Foreman, Paula Estefan, Ron Estefan, and Susan Hutchison in Puerto Rico for a TLC auctioned case consult. Carlos Conception hosted the group where they discussed the importance and impact of digging into the story and connections about Matt's case. Listen as the group performing the consult breaks down the process and the highlight moments they experienced.
TLC Podcast host, Rafe Foreman, gives an invitation regarding podcast guest appearances, TLC board membership and permanent TLC location importance. Rafe offers information and guidance regarding the improvement of the health of the Trial Lawyers College.
2000.2 TLC graduate, Bret Merkle, talks to us about being real and connecting with emotions that motivate behavior. Bret goes over his story of finding purpose in focusing on others and finding joy with the goal of staying there.
Brecken Wagner, 2016 TLC graduate, expounds on the criminal law system in Oklahoma and its tribal courts. Brecken explains the recent Supreme Court decision that has created new tribal courts, starting proceedings, and creating laws for the first time.
Benjamin Bunn joins us to discuss hate and anger and the motivations and reactions we have when we encounter them. Listen as Ben takes us through some of the feelings and emotions we go through as we experience situations charged with hate and anger in this episode of the TLC podcast.
2015 TLC graduate Gina Downes details her experiences being introduced to TLC Methods and her early presumptions around what a lawyer should be. Gina tells us about the preparation and skills that helped her enter the profession straight out of college with confidence and experience from TLC.
2005 TLC graduate, Andy Rubenstein, talks about his experiences as a teacher and student at previous TLC events. Andy discusses the benefits and reasons behind his self care and wellness focus that keeps him energized and fighting for clients. “Stay curious”.
Dirk Weeks, and his company, help develop strategies and recommend plans for plaintiff’s lawyers for clients in settlements. Hear how Dirk helps clients get the most out of settlements with structured annuities using tax conscious tactics.
2015 Graduate, Render Freeman, brings us his recent experience with psychodrama training in New York. Render also details his current work with counselors and why trial lawyers should be in regular therapy.
Trey Jones of Post, TX, experienced an oilfield accident in 1997 and describes the resulting medical issues that followed. Hear Trey’s journey as he experienced amnesia, embarrassment, and recovery from his traumatic brain injury over 26 years ago.
Assemble! TLC graduates Mike Smith, Mike Watson, and Ron Estefan join Rafe Foreman in Lubbock, TX for a case consult auctioned at a recent TLC event. Hear the benefits and techniques they used in front of live jurors to hone their statements and discover the story that motivates them.
Recent TLC graduate, Andrew Pickett, describes his early experiences with TLC, psychodrama, and the hurdles of starting his own firm while detailing his last few trials. Andrew explains the power of being his authentic self and the genuine concern of human life in the court room.
Grace Reed discusses her first legal jobs and the differences between big law firm jobs and small clerking jobs, like her current internship. Listen as Grace describes her unique experiences and the dynamics of a TLC influenced firm.
2023 TLC Graduate, Lauren Checki, details her recent experience at the 3 Week Course and how those experiences have impacted and shaped her practice. Lauren then details the work her firm does with business and home owners to sue insurance companies.
TLC 3 Week Course attendee and first time New Mexico visitor, Mario Hankerson, discusses his hesitancy and discovery of TLC methods at his first TLC event. Listen as Mario details his first interactions with "String of Pearls" and psychodrama.
From Montezuma's Castle during the 3 Week Course, Parrish Collins joins Rafe Foreman to discuss his TLC experience from last year. Parrish details his recent efforts and focus on medical negligence in the prison and jail system in New Mexico under the New Mexico Civil Rights Act.
TLC 3 week course attendees at Montezuma's Catle Laura Schultes, Sarah Mather, Colleen Mullen, Maria Bribriesco, Linda Tran, Defne Ozgediz, and Ashley Carpenter discuss the current legal environment from their perspectives.
TLC faculty member, Andy Vickery, shares a war story regarding a recent trial focused around effective scene setting and closing arguments. Andy takes time to dive back into a scene regarding words of love a elderly woman shared with her late husband.
First time TLC attendee, Joe Leventis, discusses his first impressions of the 3 Week Course in Montezuma's Castle in New Mexico. Joe explains how TLC methods has begun to shape his practice and his life after just 2 weeks into the 3 Week Course.
Current TLC participant, Todd Hollis, details his introduction to TLC and his first impressions of TLC methods and curriculum from the most recent 3 week course in Montezuma Castle. Listen as Todd and Rafe dive into their first TLC experiences and the powerful tribe of lawyers the college contains.
Jacob Vigil, 2001 TLC faculty graduate, discovered Montezuma Castle and the United World College decades ago. During a clandestine phone call, he happened to be driving in that exact location when he answered the call and suggested Montezuma Castle as the location for the Trail Lawyers College 3 Week program. The rest is history and the Trial Lawyers College is in one of its most beautiful settings ever. Come join Jake as he explains the land of enchantment.
Angelica Cogliano, 2019 Trial Lawyers College graduate, describes the struggle of connecting with the community in the areas where her voir dire panels are pulled from and making them her tribe. Listen as Angelica details the strategies she implements when dealing with the implementation of the criminal justice system at the southern border of Texas.
The Who We Are Project founder, Jeffery Robinson, describes the history of our country regarding anti-black racism. Jeffery elaborates on the details behind what makes our country the way it is today.
TLC graduate, Chris Stoy, discusses a recent trial that included a deposition with Rafe Foreman. Listen as Chris explains how he and Rafe’s use of TLC methods in this trial resulted in a victory after a zero offer settlement before trial.
TLC staff member, Chris Trundy, discusses default bias in jurors and continues the thought experiments brought forward by Brady Skinner in the previous episode. Listen as Chris expounds on the trial story and how to discover juror defaults during a criminal case.
2015 TLC graduate, Brady Skinner, talks about his recent criminal trials and media influence regarding safety and perspective of apprehended individuals. Listen as Brady discusses dealing with conscious and implicate bias both in his past and with his current jurors.
Emma Roddy shares her recent experiences while participating at the most recent Women’s Retreat through the Trial Lawyers College. Hear how the sessions on powerful storytelling and connecting with other participants impacted Emma and reinvigorated her drive for finding the client’s story.
Communications expert, Sari de la Motte, shares a sneak peek regarding the upcoming Women’s Retreat this month and describes the importance of jury selection, voir dire techniques, and shared morality between everyone participating in a trial. Listen as Sari explains her perspective on jury selection and the “ideal” juror within her voir dire tactics.
Betsy Greene, TLC graduate of 2005, describes the power of tribal groups and storytelling as she shares information on the upcoming Women’s Retreat on April 21-26, 2023. Listen as Betsy preps the audience for the next Trial Lawyers College event and details early career aspects while dealing with the insurance industry and the genesis of the separation between women and men in law.
John Charles Hardin, hailing from McKenny, TX, shares his experience at the latest Trial Lawyers College event, Trial Skills Foundation. John speaks about his rejuvenation from his most recent TLC event and the power of creative passion.
Jake Weinstock, fresh from the most recent Trial Skills Foundation course, explains his previous frustrations with other seminars and lectures about continuing education. Jake tells us about the community-centered education and hands on training he experienced at the most recent TLC event. Come listen to how TLC impacted Jake Weinstock and his career.
Why does TLC matter? A life, void of balance and full of self-medication, creates an unconnected mental state full of meaninglessness and lack of purpose.
Brian McCallister helps bring together concepts and ideas about work-life balance to demonstrate a healthy, meaningful life as an attorney. Listen as Brian describes the benefits and tactics of a well executed and balanced work life designed to avoid burnout, irritability, and guilt.
Ginger Ortiz, during a season of growth in public defending, explains the need for attorneys, especially women, to be more authentically themselves and find peace by seeking community among like-minded peers. As faculty for the upcoming Women’s Retreat for Powerful Storytelling, Ginger encourages every listener to sign up and experience a powerful course that teaches techniques to help with challenges unique for women in law and how to rest in a busy season.
David Glenn, TLC graduate of 2006, explains the unfair, predatory practices insurance companies apply. Hear how David Glenn uses his 41 years of experience and TLC methods to seek justice from insurance companies employing "swoop and settle" tactics.
Kimberly Benjamin discusses the importance of experience and training staff in TLC methods within a mid-sized law firm without losing focus on clients. Listen as she describes the advice she received as a business owner and her success in training her employees.
Missouri public defender, Justine Finney, explains her unique situation during her transfer out of death penalty case division. Listen as she details the connections between her clients when death or life without parole is a possible outcome in their case.
Missouri public defender, Justine Finney, explains her unique situation during her transfer out of the death penalty case division. Listen as she details the connections between her clients when death or life without parole is a possible outcome of their case.
Bill Trine, one of the original Trial Lawyers College founders, details his previous casework with detainees and immigrants during their detention in various U.S. prisons and penitentiaries. Hear Bill Trine as he details the long history of privatizing prisons for profit and the ongoing fight against civil rights violations in State and Federal prisons.
We all wrestle with demons. The power within is the power to overcome them. Todd Kelly describes his recent book titled “The Power Within”, the story of a pivotal moment in his life in which he struggled with a suicide attempt and the role-reversal exercise that saved his life.
One-time TLC course attendee Maureen Farrell shares her personal experiences and growing understanding of psychodrama ignited by a one week TLC course last year in Colorado. Listen as she expands on TLC skills and techniques she’s learned from just one event with the incredible TLC staff.
Listen here to TLC's podcast, with host Rafe Foreman, visiting with Trial Skills Foundation Faculty Member Max Mitchell about the importance of the Public Defender, a position Max recently left to open a solo criminal defense practice in Sedalia, MO.
Patrick McLain joins us to elaborate on his experiences with all the Trial Lawyers College courses and encourage others to participate in upcoming events with TLC staff. Patrick goes over each course coming up in 2023 and helps detail the planning, effort, and benefit of each unique course.
Come and listen to Kim Savo's excellent podcast on neuro-diversity and how we as lawyers need to educate ourselves for representation of clients who fall in this category.
Public defender Emily Fisher shares her unique perspective of the broken indigent defense system and offers her unique insight into solutions, including the value of community.
Colby Vokey tells the gripping story around his current military case and his use of TLC methods to discover and relay his case.
Using the TLC methods of role reversal, doubling, and psychodrama to enrich and deepen the connection for parents who have suffered the loss of their children at the hands of the government, please come and listen while Amanda Harber teaches us.
Simina is uniquely qualified to utilize psychodrama as a certified psychodramatist and in this episode, she not only employs the TLC methods, but gives us a substantive look into the world of the Vaccine court.
Harry Daniels III splits his time between civil and criminal trials. Listen as he tells you his insights on how to get to know your client better as well as finding your own powerful voice as an advocate.
Joy Bertrand explains her personal journey to withholding judgment of a client who has made poor decisions. The result was a connection that moved her to tears. Stay tuned and give a listen.
Felony chief public defender Jason Sosa recounts the value of TLC methods in training young aspiring trial lawyers in the correct way to practice law including jail cell reenactments and role reversals with members of his community.
Listen as Brianne, a professional storyteller, author, and book publisher discusses the power of connection and story.
Jerry Perry, past F Warrior President, invites you to learn about yourself, your authenticity, and your uniqueness. Listen while he explains the power contained therein.
Come and listen to Joe Fried, TLC grad of 2002 who has worked on cases in 40 states in the Us, as he talks about fear, a.k.a. "Fred in my head", and imparts his wisdom and insightful methods of turning the voices and fear down a level or two.
Eric Davis, our newest TLC Board Member, shares his wisdom, his leadership, and a few personal stories which add up to the greatest piece of advice I have yet to hear on this podcast. Don't give up, get better!
State Representative and Trial Lawyer Ann Johnson discusses her new role as a member of the board of directors for the Trial Lawyers College and how she uses TLC methods in the courtroom, the legislature, and as a politician with equal force and effect.
Come and listen to Greg Westfalls' insightful, inspirational and creative use of real historical events, exhibited in museums in Montgomery, Alabama, for training purposes for the defense of the damned and in representing the condemned, the downtrodden, and the damned.
Tenured law professor and trial lawyer Carolos Concepcion offers insight into TLC methods from his own experience researching the effect of emotions on humans.
Advocacy traverses our nation's boundaries. Listen as Barrister Paul O'Grady explains the Irish court system and his comparison to our system in the US.
Todd Kelly details TLC winning methods leading to a recent settlement in a trucking case at mediation. Learn how his client's story and use of story boards through expert witness depositions became the gift that kept on giving.
Maren Chaloupka explains the exciting symbiotic relationship between the moth storytelling techniques and TLC. Maren is the director and leader of the Grad 2 Course for Trial Lawyers College where new and innovative techniques, curriculum, and personal development are taught by outstanding faculty. Maren details Grad 2 Course and issues an open invitation for all TLC graduates.
TLC Grad and faculty member Eric Fong explain the connection and path to the empathy he learned at the 3-Week TLC flagship course. Listen carefully as Eric explains how TLC opened up a new world of creativity in his profession and personal life. Don't miss this podcast.
Learn how major Grethe Hahn represented a convicted and previously sentenced to death member of the armed forces and successfully beat the sentence of death in the retrial.
Listen to course co-director Stephen Demik describe the outstanding trial skills course which is coming up soon. Each director gives detailed examples of the benefits of attending this trial skills course that you won't want to miss. Tune in and experience an uplifting program with real-life examples for us to all learn from them.
Listen to course director Jim Leach describe the outstanding trial skills course which is coming up soon. Each director gives detailed examples of the benefits of attending TLC's Trial Skills Foundation seminar that you won't want to miss. Tune in and experience an uplifting program with real-life examples for us all to learn from.
In today’s episode, Rafe takes the opportunity to interview Tim Baker as he anticipates being a juror. Rafe walks Tim through the basics of being a juror, what to expect, and how to prepare.
As a leading Spokane, Washington Attorney, Karen Lindholdt has been a successful advocate for the injured and wrongfully accused for the past 27 years. TLC graduate Karen Lindholdt discusses the experience of being a woman representing men accused of sexual assault. Karen discusses the TLC methods that helped her and the difficulties that come with her client's sexual assault charges.
Rafe Foreman interviews Cate Beekman of Beekman Cortes, LLP, based in Napa Valley, California. Cate has a stellar reputation and is known for being an exceptional Trial Attorney. Cate represents people facing challenging criminal charges. Join them as they dive deep into why Cate chose a TLC to strengthen her trial skills.
Join our special holiday interview with Valerie Malone as she discusses the season of giving. Valerie and Rafe exchange stories of good tidings and cheer.
TLC President John Sloan joins the podcast to examine the importance of taking time away from work to strengthen your skills of being a trial lawyer. John and Rafe discuss how participating in various TLC programs can grow and stretch you as a trial lawyer.
“It’s integrity. If you don’t have integrity in your thoughts, it’s going to show. You’re going to come across as fake, and nobody wants to be associated with that.”
Victoria Rusk, a mitigation specialist and investigator from Houston, TX, credits the Trial Lawyers College’s In Defense of the Damned program with giving her the tools that enhance her civil case preparation and her strategy for consulting criminal defense attorneys. She helps clients understand what mitigation is and how the discovery and presentation of their background is critical to saving their life.
The TLC method teaches that if the jury perceives that an attorney is disconnected from or embarrassed about their client, the jury could adopt that bias and judge the client harshly. Drawing from this, Rusk feels that assessing the case and witnesses help a lawyer better understand their clients’ background.
When attorneys genuinely empathize with their clients, they can present their client’s mitigation story in a compelling way that helps jurors to overcome the feelings of anger stirred up by the prosecutor. Trial Lawyers College teaches lawyers to identify universal themes to be those many people can relate to, such as parenthood or significant loss.
“As a mitigation specialist, we meet people where they are.”
“It is the idea of just being yourself and connecting and being genuine and not just pretending to be genuine but being actually genuine...see how that actually works.”
This fall, former prosecutor Adam Murray enjoyed training at the Trial Lawyers College intensive five-day course in Shambhala, Colorado. Although he is not yet a TLC graduate, he describes his time at the TLC as a “life-changing experience.” After leaving the seminar, he determined that the tools provided an entirely different perspective that would benefit all aspects of trial preparation, beginning with Voir Dire.
“How can I be empowered to make sure that my client can get their story before the jury so that the right result happens?”
Being able to authentically connect with the jurors from the beginning of the process helps attorneys avoid seeming adversarial. It allows lawyers to work collaboratively with the jury and to practice the law while retaining their humanity.
Murray has since added a psychodrama room onto his office space for helping clients prepare for trial, so they would be better able to live out the critical moment on the stand. As they express their feelings regarding the experience, jurors can identify with the victim and their loss.
“Lawyers get bogged down in minutiae and facts. The facts are important. The facts are the latticework upon which you hang the flesh of your case, and the flesh of your case is going to be the principles, the values, the emotion, the feelings, the betrayal; those types of things are what make a case relatable to a jury.”
This week, Kenny Adair, former district judge and 2007 graduate of the Trial Lawyer College (TLC), attributes his success to TLC. When he left the program, he felt better equipped to discover and understand his clients’ stories and tell them in a way that the jury would embrace. Through the use of reenactments, among other methods, he can discover the backstory and connect personally and emotionally to each case.
Adair tells the essential story during voir dire, during the opening statement, when questioning the clients and witnesses, and during the closing argument. He identifies the hero or would-be hero and the villain, the liable party. He shows the villain’s betrayal and is ready to capitalize on the defense counsel’s trial behavior that compounds the original harm to the client.
“You’ve got to understand who your audience is really is. What are the morals of your jury? Once you understand their morals and whether they’re liberal or conservative, and you tailor your opening statement towards that, you’re well on your way to getting the verdict that you want.”
In this episode of the TLC Podcast, host Rafe Foreman meets with Kentucky-based trial lawyer Frank Mungo to discuss his unique approach to storytelling to resonate with the judge and jury in a variety of criminal cases. Guiding listeners through the details of some of his most successful trials, Frank provides an insightful look at the personal values and political biases that can influence judges’ and jurors’ connections with our clients and the ultimate outcome of a case.
“If the cancer is a wake-up call to spend the rest of my life—however long I have—to live a life with more quality and being more genuine, I’m not thinking that’s too unfair.”
This episode of the TLC Podcast features Laurie Goodman, the beloved executive director of the Trial Lawyers College, who speaks with host Rafe Foreman about her April 2021 diagnosis of metastatic breast cancer. As she shares the insights she’s discovered about herself in the wake of her ongoing health struggles, Laurie offers a critical reminder of the value of accepting one’s life path, surrendering control, and making today the very best it can be.
“We are in a different mindset than our clients are. Even that is a barrier because, at that point, we don’t see the context where our client comes from.”
This week’s TLC podcast features trial lawyer Pat Montes, who offers a thought-provoking look at how language and culture impact a lawyer’s relationships with their clients. Bringing to the table her unique perspective as a bilingual and bicultural attorney, Pat stresses the importance of working with clients in their native language rather than forcing them to struggle to convey their authentic story in English.
As Pat and host Rafe Foreman continue their discussion, they raise a new set of questions: How can a client relate to their lawyer when they come from entirely different backgrounds? And how can a lawyer discover their client’s story when their cultural differences, despite both speaking English, effectively mean they’re speaking different languages?
The answers to these questions and more are explored in-depth in this engaging podcast episode. Listen along as Pat and Rafe provide necessary insight into connecting with a diverse set of clients and ensuring equal justice for all.
“There are people who do bad things, but I’ve never met anybody who I felt was just a bad person.”
Continuing our series on ‘Reconstructing Success,’ California Public Defender Emily Fisher explores the ways that trial lawyers can intentionally improve injustices and inefficiencies in the justice system. As she guides listeners through her blueprint to resolving these systemic issues, Emily provides a thought-provoking starting point for the empathic trial lawyer to fine-tune their advocacy for their clients and bring humanity back into the courtroom.
“When we tell good stories, the listeners engage.”
This week, host Rafe Foreman meets with accomplished civil trial lawyer Scott Glovsky to explore his methods of successfully conveying the emotion behind his clients’ stories to the jury. A passionate advocate for individuals who’ve faced unjust denials by their health insurance companies, Scott delves into the intersection between the struggles of his clients and the motivations of their insurers.
As the episode comes to a close, Rafe and Scott encourage listeners to think about the underlying emotional connection that their story is conveying. Is it adequate? Is it complete? Is it thorough? These are all essential questions a trial lawyer must ask themselves to ensure that they can lead the jury to find justice for their clients.
“There are so many people who have incredible talents that are going to waste because they’ve been excluded. It’s not hard to find if you just open your eyes….and when we see it, we need to use our position of power and privilege in the groups and organizations that we’re leading to elevate that talent and allow them to have the space to shine.”
This week, trial lawyer and legal educator Keeley Blanchard joins Rafe Foreman in an integral discussion on the importance of inclusion, diversity, and representation in the legal profession.
As a trainer of public defenders, Keeley explains how valuable it can be for members of underserved communities to see and be taught by legal leaders who share a key part of their identity, whether that’s their race, disability, gender, or sexual orientation. However, Keeley reminds listeners of the barriers that currently limit that from happening at the frequency that it should, prompting her to explore the solutions to this pressing issue.
As Rafe and Keeley dissect this issue from the perspective of their own marginalized identities as well as their points of privilege, they encourage legal professionals and leaders to identify the biases they have within themselves and to do the work to overcome them in order to provide a safe and welcoming space for all.
John Sloan hosts the TLC Podcast this week to interview Rafe Foreman and partner attorney Susan Hutchison on the incredible verdict the two trial lawyers won in a groundbreaking and unconventional gender discrimination case.
Listen along as Rafe and Susan describe how they successfully conveyed their 72-year-old client’s story to the jury after a false sexual assault accusation led to him losing his 20-year job with an HVAC company. In a compelling episode led by a dynamic group of voices that TLC students have come to know and love over the years, John leads Rafe and Susan as they provide a powerful testament to the efficacy of the psychodramatic methods and the value of truly reaching one’s client to discover the winning story.
“Everything I need to know I learned in psychodrama. I remind myself to listen with my heart, tune into the emotions -- not just the words -- be open, be honest, and be kind because we have more in common than we’ll ever know...and to be fearless because no matter how alone we’re feeling, we are never alone and our TLC group -- every single one of them -- will be there to help you when you’re going through a problem.”
This week, host Rafe Foreman is joined by Connie Taylor Henderson, who practices law with her husband and her son in Vancouver, Washington. Continuing our current podcast series titled “Restructuring Success,” Connie backpacks off of the upcoming Warrior Magazine theme with an engaging dive into why TLC is worth fighting for.
By sharing the impact that TLC has had on her life both personally and professionally and reflecting on TLC’s past, present, and future in these turbulent yet promising times, Connie’s words are sure to resonate with all who have been touched by the TLC methods.
“Do something to make someone else’s day better. If we all do that, every day, we’ll change the world.”
This week, Washington attorney Mark Wagner continues our ‘Restructuring Success’ series with a refreshing take on the true meaning of success. Channeling the core message of the Trial Lawyers College, Mark argues that success is all in how we treat others. Through engaging storytelling and a matter-of-fact method of expression, Mark reminds listeners of the humanity in all of us and that we are more alike than we are different.
“Success is really subjective, and I think that’s okay. The only thing that I need to do to live truthfully is to define the things that are important to me and let the rest burn. What’s scarier -- disappointing people or thinking, at the end of the day, what kind of life could I have had if I had just been a little bit braver?”
This week, Ilinois criminal defense attorney Cambry McNabb joins host Rafe Foreman to explore the true meaning of success. As a young lawyer who attended the Trial Lawyers College early in her career, Cambry has had her fair share of successes, but not all of those successes had perfect outcomes. Discussing the most noteworthy trials and tribulations of her legal practice, Cambry treats listeners to a thought-provoking dive into what it means to win or lose a case.
“The storytelling potential in this case was off the charts because of the lengths the defense was going to go to to avoid the truth.”
In this podcast, Eric Fong joins host Rafe Foreman to share, in captivating detail, the extraordinary story of how he and his client defied all odds to obtain a $91 million verdict in a recent personal injury trial.
The case began when Eric’s client suffered a significant, life-altering brain injury during a late-night convenience store robbery that arose from inadequate security. Incredibly moved by his client’s struggles and humanity, Eric was faced with the responsibility to convey those same feelings to the jury.
Now recalling those moments for Rafe and his listeners, Eric discusses the astronomical challenges he and his client encountered throughout the trial, from COVID restrictions to juror predispositions, and the techniques they used to overcome them. Above all, Eric explores how he got the jury to not only hate the defendant but to love his client exactly as he did.
“Always be willing to be flexible -- don’t get so married to your methodologies that you can’t change those, too. It is in preparation and hard work but it’s also in willing to be open to the ideas of others.”
This week, Todd Kelly of Austin, Texas, joins host Rafe Foreman to kick off our new podcast series titled ‘Reconstructing Success’ with an engaging overview of the importance of preparation and planning as a trial lawyer, particularly in the scope of pretrial. In discussing the strategies applied to some of his most recent trials, Todd explores the ideal balance between flexibility and consistency and the value of varying one’s approach to win justice for their clients.
“For me, getting this opportunity with this scholarship, the biggest thing is spreading the message to go and get the vaccine.”
On this week’s podcast, high school freshman Jack Lucchesi and his mother, Bridget Lucchesi, join host Rafe Foreman. Jack is one of the first ten winners selected in New York State's College Scholarship raffle for vaccinated teens, and his mom Bridget is a clinical mental health therapist who has deep Trial Lawyers College connections. In addition to knowing Rafe since childhood, Bridget joined TLC for the Death Penalty seminar in 2010, and she studied with Zerka Moreno, wife of Jacob Levy Moreno, the inventor of psychodrama!
Rafe, Jack, and Bridget cover a variety of COVID-19-related topics during their conversation including Jack’s scholarship raffle win, how to combat and identify misinformation, how to deal with grief throughout the pandemic, and much more.
“I decided that I should do something I don’t normally do, and that’s reverse roles with a defense attorney and try to figure out where they’re coming from and how their lives have changed. So, I was trying to get personally involved with defense attorneys, not just in the case but in their actual lives...”
On this week’s podcast, Conroe, TX trial attorney and TLC faculty member Paula Estefan joins host Rafe Foreman to discuss how she works with opposing counsel, the benefits of doing so, and how her approach to opposing counsel has changed over time. Through their conversation, Paula and Rafe also touch on the power of silence and listening, what endures about TLC’s methods, and the deep connections formed at the Trial Lawyers College.
“The plaintiff’s practice can be very lonely. I think that loneliness has been a bit amplified by being inside, cooped up, and not able to communicate and build relationships like we were meant to. The pandemic has caused an amplification of those relationships gone silent.”
On this week’s podcast, Kansas City trial attorney Brian McCallister joins host Rafe Foreman to discuss the ways that the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and other events of the past year will impact the practice of law in the future. As he guides listeners through the cases that have been impacted by this new era in his own practice of trial law and those of his colleagues, Brian provides a stark illustration of the fragility of the jury trial and the importance of human connection.
“Judges are just like us -- they’re egocentric, they think with their own minds, they speak with their own heart, and they bring a lifetime of experiences as a human and as a previous lawyer to the bench.”
This riveting podcast features former Oklahoma judge Kenny Adair, now a criminal and civil trial lawyer, who gives his unique perspective on the fears and vulnerabilities of the more challenging judges encountered by trial lawyers. Sharing invaluable insight into the human side of the men and women behind the bench, Kenny presents listeners with a refreshing take on the use of psychodrama to connect with the judge and win justice for their clients.
“I’m one of those types of people that wants to be all things all the time, and what I’m learning is you can’t be all things all the time. It’s just not possible. That’s how you wind up burned out and really of no use to anybody.”
Continuing our theme of ‘Managing in Tough Times’ is Kahlie Hoffman, a Kansas City-based personal injury trial lawyer who’s raising two young boys behind the scenes. Despite the difficulties her busy life has handed her, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, Kahlie believes that each role she plays strengthens her abilities in the other. Reflecting on the challenges and triumphs she has faced while managing both full-time roles, Kahlie provides invaluable insight into the value of self-care, setting realistic boundaries for oneself, and communicating those boundaries to others.
“There are some people who have not had an opportunity to represent a gay client or a member of a minority group, and there may be some biases there. Before proper representation can be done, I think that a person needs to sit with themselves and try to overcome those biases or really truthfully address them and see if they’re going to play into the case.”
This week’s podcast features Colorado attorney Sean Brown, who engages in a captivating conversation with host Rafe Foreman about navigating the touchy topic of sexuality when representing an LGBTQ client. Discussing the potential biases of judges, jury members, and even themselves as trial lawyers, Sean provides a vital perspective for attorneys to successfully uphold the rights of members of marginalized groups.
“I want widows to know that once they have loved someone so deeply and been loved, it will come again. Nobody should live without love, and they don’t have to.”
This podcast features California attorney Samantha Berryessa, who continues our ‘Managing in Tough Times’ series with a moving account of her experience navigating grief before and after the 2019 death of her husband, attorney Dax Cowart.
A wrongful death lawyer by practice, Samantha gracefully highlights the parallels between her personal experience with grief and her perception of the grief of her widowed clients. Offering a unique glimpse into the inner world of a newly widowed woman, Samantha’s riveting testimony is essential listening for any trial lawyer who represents the bereaved.
“We need to communicate with our eyes more, whether it’s to your spouse or the jury on voir dire or to your client.”
In this week’s episode of the TLC podcast, civil lawyer Chandler Loupe joins host Rafe Foreman in a contentious discussion around the unique challenges faced by trial lawyers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Sharing his experience as a trial attorney in one of the few regions that kept its courtroom doors open through 2020, Chandler provides a timely reminder of the value of looking into people’s eyes.
“In order for me to do a trial right now, I need to prepare extra-special. It’s sort of like an extended warm-up to get my head in the right spot.”
This week’s podcast features Jason Savela, a criminal defense lawyer with more than two decades of experience trying cases to juries in Colorado. Continuing our theme of “Managing in Tough Times,” Jason shares the details of some of his most riveting cases, guiding listeners through the hardships and triumphs that he has shared with his clients.
As a TLC-trained trial lawyer, Jason stays true to the psychodramatic methods, sharing the strategies he used to discover his clients’ stories and tell them authentically to the jury. Bringing the discussion back to the tough times we’re collectively facing, Jason reminds listeners of the importance of using demonstrative evidence now more than ever.
“I didn’t want anyone to see me as I really am. I thought they would reject me. That’s why, in the beginning, I worked so hard to walk perfectly -- I didn’t want anyone to see my weakness. But it was only when I was willing to let people inside and to see that is when I began to be comfortable with it as well.”
Continuing our ‘Managing in Tough Times’ series is Bret Merkle, a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, personal injury attorney whose life was turned upside down at the age of 21 after he sustained serious injuries in a motorcycle accident. Suddenly facing a life with chronic pain and loss of bodily function, Bret slowly discovered sources of joy and fulfillment that would keep him moving forward.
While he learned to push through his hardships to accomplish an impressive legal career, Bret continued to struggle with being open about his physical struggles due to a fear of rejection. As Bret finally began to appreciate the value of living authentically and creating bonds as his true, vulnerable, and imperfect self, he built powerful relationships and unmatched success in his career as a trial lawyer. Above all, he’s learned to face his fears in everything he does -- whether it involves his body or his next trial.
“We need to see the things that are happening—the changes, the protocols, the restructuring of how this is all working—as opportunities and to find ways to embrace them and make them part of how you present your case.”
This timely podcast features Texas trial lawyer Susan Hutchison, who discusses how the COVID-19 era has hindered the efficacy of the jury trial and what trial lawyers can expect in order to be better advocates for their clients as courtrooms begin to open up again throughout the nation. In sharing her and her clients’ stories of resilience and adaptation while navigating uncharted waters, Susan’s words of wisdom offer something that can resonate with all.
“It’s not just the words that I say, but do I honor the words that you say?”
This continuation of our ‘Words Matter’ series features Dana Cole, an associate professor of law at the University of Akron School of Law, who shares his thoughts on the power and components of an impactful story and the art of mindful listening.
This refreshing approach to why words matter explores not only on the side of the storyteller but also on the side of the listener. Drawing from both his personal insight inspired by recent events and his unique understanding of the psychodramatic methods, Dana’s words embody the message of kindness, respect, and connection behind everything we do here at TLC.
“I win because I’m the person who cares the most in the courtroom, not because I know the most.”
This week’s podcast features Kiesha Cannon, a captivating voice for the vulnerable and the accused, who shares her insight into the simple secrets behind effective communication and connection both in and out of the courtroom. Drawing from her equally-inspiring personal and professional journeys, Kiesha provides a stark reminder of the importance of living authentically and listening with an open heart.
“The whole point of psychodrama is to tell the story, and the ways that lawyers have incorporated this method to tell their client’s story with such love and interest and time and attention is one of the greatest gifts I’ve ever seen another human being give another human being.”
This week’s podcast continues our ‘Words Matter’ series with Jody Anderson, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Certified Psychodramatist, who shares her personal and professional insight into the impact of language on the thoughts, feelings, and emotions of a trial lawyer’s clients. The daughter of beloved TLC Psychodramatist Kathie St. Clair, Jody follows in her mother’s footsteps with a moving exploration of the power of authenticity and spontaneity in establishing a positive attorney-client relationship.
“They always told us in Tennessee, ‘Great songs aren’t written — they’re re-written.’ I think that saying could apply for us in our work as trial lawyers.”
In this multifaceted episode of the TLC podcast, host Rafe Foreman is joined by singer/songwriter and trial attorney Sam Wooden to continue our ‘Words Matter’ series. Offering his perspective on the connection between art and the performance of the trial lawyer, Sam shares the story behind his love for music and its parallels with his discovery of psychodrama and his application of these methods to win justice for his clients.
Armed with his guitar and his voice, Sam supports the link between the art of creating sound and presenting a powerful argument to the jury with a real-time performance of his music. This sparks a moving dialogue between Sam and Rafe, who draw upon their own experiences to solidify the messages of connection, compassion, creativity, and spontaneity that lie behind the TLC methods and the duty of the trial lawyer.
“How do you know that words matter? You know because they make you feel something.”
In this continuation of our podcast series titled Words Matter, Los Angeles Public Defender Kim Savo shares her insight into the connection between poetry and the presentation of a compelling opening statement.
A wordsmith by nature and a passionate advocate for the accused, Kim stresses the importance of emphasizing the emotion behind a story, rather than leaning on the facts, to move jurors to justice. Staying true to the TLC methods, her moving discussion with host Rafe Foreman offers a refreshing look at the artistry behind a trial lawyer’s words.
“As advocates in the courtroom, the truth carries the day, and we have the obligation to seek the truth, to speak the truth, and to correct lies and misstatements when they’re in violation of the truth.”
In this first installment of our four-part series titled ‘Words Matter’, host Rafe Foreman takes the mic to introduce the why behind this pressing topic. Why do words matter? What do words, particularly falsehoods, have the power to do? This timely episode, inspired by the recent events at our nation’s Capitol, explores each of those questions and more.
While Rafe doesn’t have a straightforward solution to America’s rising issue of weaponized misinformation, his words serve to encourage further thought, discussion, and personal accountability among those who hold the highest obligation to promote the truth.
“Our great-grandfather stood to fulfill a sacred duty...to do more than he ever thought he may have been capable of doing...at a particular time in the existence of the world for the survival of generations of all of us to come. The warriors that stand in courtrooms today—with their hand on a vulnerable, suffering person or their families—are doing that extremely honorable and important and courageous task of a warrior assigned the same type of commitment to help to make it a better world.”
This episode of the TLC podcast features brothers Harley and Robin Zephier, co-authors of the book Warrior Is and members of the Mnincoju Lakota people. In a captivating discussion with host Rafe Foreman, the brothers share their profound insight into what it means to be a warrior through the story of their great-grandfather, Mato Niyanpi “Saved by Bear”, a proud Lakota warrior who performed an act of commitment and courage during the Battle of the Greasy Grass in 1876, interweaving his legacy with the story of humankind as a whole.
By establishing a parallel between the values of the Lakota culture and the core mission of the Trial Lawyers College, Harley and Robin offer a refreshing perspective that transcends the boundaries of time and background. Tying it all together with the current turbulent political atmosphere of both our nation and our world, this episode offers a timely reminder of the importance of coexistence, unity, and interconnectedness and the role of the trial lawyer in upholding them.
“It’s not going to be a straight line from here to a better world, but what other choice do we have?”
This unconventional episode of the TLC podcast features Bernie Cantorna, a Centre County, Pennsylvania District Attorney who served on the TLC faculty from 1997 to 2016. As he catches up with host Rafe Foreman, Bernie explains why he chose to become a DA and offers his unique insight into the inner world of a prosecutor from someone who’s been in both shoes.
As a former general practitioner representing both civil plaintiffs and criminal defendants in a range of emotionally moving cases, Bernie saw a problem that needed to be fixed. Like a true TLC warrior, Bernie cleaned up a corrupt DA’s office by taking on the role himself, proving that it’s never too late to do the right thing. His testimony serves as a powerful reminder of the ability of the TLC methods to transcend occupation and make a lasting impact from all angles of the criminal justice system.
“We have a real power right now to change the world we live in and leave it better for the generations to come, but we must come at it from a place of love. We have to be brave enough to be the light.”
In the fourth and final installment of our podcast series titled “What Do Trial Lawyers Do?” TLC graduate and faculty member Jacqui Ford offers a striking reminder of what it truly means to be a trial lawyer. A passionate advocate for the accused in Oklahoma City, Jacqui discusses the meaningful differences that she and her colleagues can make on their clients, the courtroom, and the community, tying her remarkable personal testimony together with the values of truth, authenticity, and self-reflection that lie at the core of the TLC methods.
“Fighting is an end in itself if the cause is right, so you’ve got to keep fighting. Even if you aren’t having success at times, you’ve got to stick with it.”
In this third installment of our series titled ‘What Do Trial Lawyers Do?’, host Rafe Foreman explores the ins and outs of practicing civil rights law with Albuquerque, NM attorney Zackeree Kelin. Beginning with a deep dive into Zack’s experience contributing to the formation of the New Mexico Civil Rights Commission following the growth of the Black Lives Matter movement in 2020, this riveting discussion could not be more timely.
Later on in the podcast, listeners are introduced to the practice of American Indian Law through Zackeree’s personal experience representing clients before the Navajo Nation Tribal Courts. A fervent advocate for the constitutional rights and basic human dignity of vulnerable populations, Zack is a TLC warrior through and through.
“Part of being a trial lawyer is being a good investigator — getting out of the office, visiting clients, visiting the scene, visiting witnesses, talking to people — and getting the evidence you need for your cases.”
In this second installation of our podcast series titled ‘What do trial lawyers do?’ host Rafe Foreman chats with Kansas City civil law attorney Tom Dickerson to discuss the ins and outs of representing personal injury plaintiffs. By exploring his own successes and setbacks, Tom offers a treasure trove of tips and tricks for burgeoning personal injury lawyers to elevate their skills both in and out of the courtroom and be fearless advocates for their clients.
From motor vehicle accidents to dog bites to medical malpractice cases, Tom has dedicated his practice to standing up for everyday people facing life-changing injuries by fighting against insurance company misconduct. This passion and know-how is channeled into this engaging deep dive into personal injury law, where he fervently discusses the progression of his career and everything he’s learned along the way.
“We help the people that have been neglected, left out, and desperate, and we give them life when everybody else has left them for dead.”
In this first installment of our four-part series titled ‘What Do Trial Lawyers Do?’ TLC graduate and faculty member Patrick McLain shares the intricacies, peculiarities, and triumphs of being a military trial lawyer. Hosted by Rafe Foreman, this engaging and informative dive into military law guides listeners through its unique structure and the ways in which it compares to other areas of the legal system.
As a military law attorney with an impressive track record representing military members, Patrick connects these topics with the Trial Lawyers College methods and the turbulent atmosphere of 2020. By bringing his story full-circle, Patrick’s insight epitomizes what both TLC and the legal career are all about: loyalty, community, and connection no matter what life throws our way.
“The most important thing to help people in the system is to address their thinking errors, and this all starts with their limiting, permission-granting beliefs and values about drug use or criminal thinking and conduct. There will be no long-term behavior changes without this work being done.”
In this week’s podcast, host Rafe Foreman sits down with Hawaii’s Stan Dokmanus, a Certified Criminal Justice and Addictions Professional and Certified Substance Abuse Counselor, to discuss the overlap between criminal behavior and addiction. Throughout the episode, Stan draws from his extensive experience treating individuals with substance abuse disorders to give his insight into drug crime, the criminalization of addiction, and potential solutions.
Stan’s deep dive into this topic is centered on discovering the reasons behind an individual’s addiction and criminality, including how biopsychosocial factors can form the belief systems that fuel their behavior. In doing so, Stan asserts that professionals can directly address and change their client’s criminal behavior by touching their belief system, with the ultimate goal of offering alternative solutions to incarceration.
“We might be on different sides of a bridge but we’re both human. We can get closer on that bridge than we ever thought possible if we truly open up and try to listen and hear each other and find something in ourselves that connects with what that person has just said. You’d be surprised that we have more in common than we have different.”
In this week’s podcast, TLC graduate and F-Warrior board member Mike Smith shares his riveting testimony to the value of the TLC methods. An Atlanta-based workers' compensation and personal injury lawyer, Mike is a firm believer in the power of the TLC methods to positively change both the personal lives and practices of those who learn them, just as they did for him.
As you listen to Mike’s inspiring story, you’ll learn about the circumstances that led to his open embrace of vulnerability, connection, and storytelling in all areas of his life. From his first experience with TLC to his eventual application of the psychodrama methods in the courtroom, Mike’s personal journey has something that resonates with us all.
“The newspaper quoted, ‘the defendant hugged his lawyer after the verdict was read.’ That’s the relationship we had, and you only get there by caring about your client.”
In this week’s episode, TLC graduate and faculty member Jerry Bosch guides host Rafe Foreman through the ways in which the TLC methods helped obtain a not guilty verdict on an attempted murder charge, detailing the months he invested in discovering the story and innocence of his client.
As you listen to this captivating podcast, you’ll hear Jerry describe the value of the listening exercise in regard to an adverse witness. Jerry involves psychodramatic tools and techniques in this case to gain understanding from all sides, skillfully complementing this with improvisation methods to interview and cross the adverse witness. A true testimony to the success of TLC, Jerry’s thoughtful and reflective journey to not guilty is a learning experience for us all.
“They’re people who made a mistake. If you’re willing to put in the time and hold their hand through the process, they’ll never forget that.”
In this week’s podcast, Sarah Toney, a criminal defense specialist and TLC faculty member, discusses the world of DWI/DUI and the interplay between the TLC methods in both trial and pretrial settings. As a national leader in DUI defense, Sarah shares her insight into defending these crimes and how best to apply the TLC methods toward that goal.
From flaws and inconsistencies in field sobriety, breathalyzer, and blood testing to unnecessarily harsh sentencing practices, Sarah shines a light on a range of statutory issues, exploring the many ways in which everyday drivers can be subject to false accusations and rights violations. Paired with a comparison of laws throughout the nation, this episode gives listeners a comprehensive inside look at DUI defense to help them better navigate this complex legal landscape in their own practices.
Chris Trundy, a TLC faculty member from Massachusetts, discusses the delicate and powerful issue of institutional racism in the United States court system and the crossroads between civil prosecution of these claims and the TLC methods.
Standing among the top trial lawyers and psychodrama experts in America, Chris’ career took off in the early 90s when he served Massachusetts as a private court-appointed lawyer. Despite taking a high volume of cases and seeing first-hand how institutional racism impacted the lives of those he was representing, Chris is open about his initial skepticism.
As you listen to this week’s podcast, you’ll learn the stories and circumstances that influenced Chris’ burgeoning awareness — from sentencing biases to poor jury diversity — and gain invaluable insight into the ways that judges and trial lawyers can propel change from the inner workings of the justice system.
In this riveting interview, TLC alum and faculty member Max Mitchell draws upon his extensive experience representing Missouri’s most vulnerable criminal defendants to passionately and earnestly identify the good, the bad, and the ugly in the criminal justice system.
As a district public defender in Sedalia, Missouri, Max represents individuals with charges ranging from DWI to first-degree murder. This role has given him an inside look at the destructive effects that limited funding, insufficient resources, and unjust sentencing practices can have on the lives of individuals facing criminal charges in Missouri.
The interview begins with a brief discussion on Gideon v. Wainwright, the landmark U.S. Supreme Court case which upheld a defendant’s right to effective counsel at every stage of litigation. Max explains that this ruling is not always applied as intended, leading to less-than-ideal outcomes for criminal defendants, who may or may not be guilty.
To illustrate this assertion, Max cites instances of overburdened public defenders with dozens of active cases under their belts, police failing to inform defendants of their rights to a lawyer during the interrogation stage, and courts failing to prioritize the distribution of public defender resources to those with the most dire financial needs. He also shines a light on other, more overarching flaws in the criminal justice system, including the practice of keeping innocent people in jail when they can’t pay bond, biases from judges and prosecutors, and prosecution being based on the defendant’s history rather than the crime itself.
It is our hope that introducing these issues to our listeners will inspire them to begin thinking about how they can solve them. For more information on how you can gain the skills to make lasting change in the system, we invite you to browse our selection of TLC courses
TLC alum Greg Antollino (TLC July 2003) discusses his recent Supreme Court victory, in which the SCOTUS ruled that employment discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity is prohibited under federal civil rights laws. Greg's client was dismissed by his employer after a customer complained that he revealed his sexual orientation to her during the course of his work.
Greg's client passed before the SCOTUS decision, but Greg persevered on behalf of his client and all LGBTQ Americans.
The June decision represents the most significant LGBTQ ruling since the SCOTUS legalized same-sex marriage in 2015.
In this wide-ranging interview, TLC faculty member and former TLC Board member Mel Orchard lends his wisdom, knowledge, and experience to the issue of Civil Rights and qualified immunity.
Mel has served as a trial lawyer for over 27 years, and his passion for his work still burns bright. Here he discusses his concerns about efforts underway to further limit the liability of corporations for harm to their workers and to the public - an issue of particular urgency in the harsh light of the Covid-19 pandemic. "Of the three pillars of our democracy, our judiciary is still, in American life, the most respected," Mel says. "We still have plenty of good judges; we still have plenty of good lawyers. We officers of the court are responsible for this pillar of our democracy. But the powers that want more power have been eroding this particular pillar of late like we have never seen. This is just one more chink at the bottom of the pillar. Do you think workers' lives will be safer or less safe when businesses will not be held accountable for unsafe practices?"
Mel touches on the importance of truly listening and being present, in life and in trial, rather than trying to spin and manipulate. "All you can do is listen, hope to find some common theme that makes sense, then put your trust in these people and tell an honest story."
Mel calls on his fellow TLC alumni to come together as a family to serve one another and strengthen the jury trial system. "Let's not go back on the teaching. Let's pay it forward and continue to provide safe spaces for us to be creative. We've got a world to change."
TLC Podcast host Rafe Foreman talks with photojournalist Amy Katz about her experiences in covering the Black Lives Matter protests in Washington, DC, Seattle, Los Angeles, and Portland, Oregon. In this episode, Amy shares how she was tear-gassed within 5 minutes of her arrival in Portland, despite being clearly identified as a member of the press. "During my first visit to Portland...the police really respected that we were journalists. They also were not attacking protesters...so I felt safe. But it was a totally different scene when I arrived back in Portland on July 21."
Over the ensuing ten days in Portland, Amy was tear-gassed over twenty times. "I realized that if I was going to do my job, I had to learn how to operate blindly, assuming that I would be tear-gassed and would have my eyes shut for considerable amounts of time. So I started to practice putting on my protective equipment with my eyes closed and then learn how to operate my camera...with my eyes closed so when I was blinded with tear gas I could still take pictures."
On July 29, Amy was shot with rubber bullets while walking in a single file line with several other journalists, their hands in the air waving press passes, their shirts and hats emblazoned with PRESS or NEWS MEDIA, shouting “Press!”. The shooters, wearing US military camouflage and gas masks, refused to identify themselves or the particular agency who employed them.
In this interview, Amy details the need and urgency for justice in our country and outlines the things that TLC warriors can do to help stop the chaos.
Protests are not acts of terrorism. Symbolic action is needed for free speech. But the government used tear gas and shot at the Press - hardly a symbolic act. The government attacked and assaulted the Press, protestors, and citizens who held their hands over their heads, saying "Don’t shoot!"
TLC warriors are needed to fight Civil Rights violations at a courthouse near you!
TLC alum and faculty member Mike Marrinan discusses how holding police accountable on modest abuse cases could prevent more serious cases.
Mike is a San Diego attorney dedicated to representing victims of police misconduct in state and federal civil rights cases.
According to Mike, police culture has developed in a way that encourages and accepts the use of more force than is necessary. This culture tolerates the militarization of policing and breeds more and more abuse, especially when no one is held accountable.
Mike describes how video has changed the perception of the public regarding excessive force and raised public awareness and increased support for changing the protection of qualified immunity.
TLC Podcast host Rafe Foreman takes you on a journey through the essential TLC Trial Skills, from voir dire through to closing argument. Gain insights on how best to integrate TLC's groundbreaking methods into your case as Rafe describes the how and why of the various skills and methods.
Listen as Rafe takes two jurors on a carefully guided path toward cause. Learn from the wisdom of Helen Simotas as her quote about "seeing" brings light and understanding to this program. Feel the tension between inclusion and exclusion, and carve your own path up that steep grade. Engage yourself on a deeper level and feel the emotions as you listen to the sage wisdom of Don Clarkson and explore the depths of who you are or want to be. Learn the difference between cockiness and humble confidence as you shake your core to embrace new and exciting opportunities.
TLC seminars return this fall with October seminars on Cross-Examination and Voir Dire, and continue in December with Discover the Story of Your Case.
"When you walk into a courtroom with TLC training...you're exactly what the jury doesn't expect a lawyer to be. You're a human being, and there is a common bond, and walls coming down between jurors and TLC-trained lawyers."
In this week's podcast, host Rafe Foreman talks to TLC faculty member and former F Warrior Alumni Board member Ron Estefan. In this wide-ranging interview, Ron discusses the strength of the F Warrior alumni organization and its efforts to keep TLC graduates engaged, active, and involved through the development of TLC regional programs, local working groups, TLC's Warrior Magazine, and many other efforts.
"It is so TLC to not let things keep us from what's most important to us, which is finding a way to connect with each other for the benefit of our clients," Ron says. He describes how the powerful in-person methods of TLC drove faculty and staff to look for creative ways to carry those methods forward into the virtual learning environment necessitated by the Covid-19 pandemic. "We have been training hundreds - literally hundreds - of TLC alumni in recent weeks in virtual refreshers, and the results are terrific. We can't wait to extend it to a full-length seminar in our virtual regionals this fall."
TLC's fall virtual seminars kick off in October with courses on Cross-Examination and Voir Dire and round out with Discover the Story of Your Case in December.
It began for us back in 1215, when King John signed the greatest document of freedom and human rights ever imagined. That document, the Magna Carta, established the full right to a trial by jury of your peers.
In today's podcast, TLC alum and faculty member Vicki Slater (TLC 2003) takes us back over 800 years to the foundation of our greatest freedom. Enjoy her recitation of a seminal case 400 years after the right to a trial by jury was established. An upstart advocate fought for his client, a Mr. Bushel, who dogmatically refused to be manipulated by the King. That advocate was responsible for the foundations of the First Amendment to the US Constitution as he was prone to practice his religion in public speeches.
Vicki then transports us to the present day, where current events still prominently feature freedom of speech, freedom of assembly and the most sacred right of all, the 7th Amendment’s right to a Trial By JURY. Listen to this enthusiastic, entertaining, and educational journey with the perfect narrator, Vicki Slater.
Have you ever wanted to talk to the jury after a trial? TLC podcast host Rafe Foreman recommends it, and in fact insists on it himself. Imagine the insights you could gain from talking to an actual juror about the trial.
Today we have what is likely to be an epic podcast, and a first in TLC history. TLC Graduate Benjamin Cloward (TLC Sept 2013) recently won a $38 million unanimous verdict for an inadequate or negligent security case in Las Vegas, Nevada. Today Ben and one of the jurors on the case join Rafe to give you a few key insights into the trial, her role and experience as a juror, and Ben’s own unique interpretation of how TLC methods and collages helped secure this victory.
Ben reveals some critical insights as to how he accomplished this tremendous feat and how it impacted the jury from the point of view of an actual juror. The vulnerability shown by both of our speakers here today reveals their passion, their drive, and their sincerity. You will not want to miss this journey down the justice highway.
“If there’s one takeaway from this entire thing, it’s if you’re arguing, you’re losing. No matter where you are in life -- whether it’s a courtroom or with your significant other or your best friend or a complete stranger -- if you’re arguing, you’re already down the wrong path, so take a deep breath, count to ten, and start over.”
TLC graduate and faculty member Renee Stackhouse (TLC Sept 2012) visits with host Rafe Foreman about the transformative power of TLC voir dire methods, both in and out of the courtroom.
Renee is a serious force in San Diego’s legal community, recognized equally for her tenacity, diligence, legal knowledge, and exceptional trial skills. As an advocate, Renee is lauded for her strategic and empathetic approach, and she is known as a leader in the profession and the community.
In this interview, Renee discusses how voir dire helps to identify the implicit biases that may affect a juror's view on a case, and how honing your active listening skills can help you provide a non-judgmental, safe space for jurors to share their biases. "You have to be willing to be vulnerable with the jurors - to "show them yours" - before they will show up authentically with you," Renee says. She describes how in voir dire (and in life), it is important to listen with an open heart and mind, even if you disagree with what someone is saying. "You have to provide a safe space for people to say what they need to say and feel heard, without trying to change their mind. That's not our job. In a way, it goes against our training because we’re trained to pick a side and advocate for that side, but we have to give jurors the space to come to their own conclusions."
TLC Podcast host Rafe Foreman interviews TLC graduate, trial lawyer, and faculty member Greg Westfall on the transformative power of TLC methods in preparing for and trying a criminal defense case.
In this wide-ranging interview, Greg discusses the importance of meeting your clients where they are, rather than trying to make them fit an expectation. "People will sense if you don’t like them or are afraid of them. You have to love them. If you do, then you’re thinking about them – what they want and they need." Greg does what it takes to get a complete picture of his clients' story - going to their homes and walking their streets. "Going into the setting gives you a different perspective on the story than you get if you're just listening to the client tell it."
Greg is the faculty leader for TLC's intensive course for criminal defense attorneys, In Defense of the Damned (IDD), scheduled for June 2021. IDD students participate in two days of psychodrama, followed by breakout sessions on opening statement, voir dire and cross-examination using their own cases.
Greg says it is the job of the criminal defense attorney to forge an emotional connection between the defendant and the jury; skills they will learn at the Trial Lawyers College. "We are community people," Greg says. "We are people who live in groups. Your jury is looking at your client and asking, 'is this person one of us?' They are looking at the criminal defense attorney and asking, 'is this person one of us?' It's our job to help them see themselves in our clients and in us."
TLC alumna Ginger Ortiz (TLC Sept 2011) takes us through a deep exercise on getting in touch with our humanness. Through her own experience, she carefully guides us to help find the source in ourselves, our clients, and those we serve. She cheerfully reminds us that we must be vigilant in working on the mission statement to be inclusive worldwide.
"As we all learn together, and as we all grow together, it's really individual growth that is the most transformative,” Ginger says. Using her own brilliant example, we learn about shaking up the "snow globe."
According to Ginger, "Once we start working, once we begin, things start to happen." Exploring what is in your "snow globe" is often difficult, but Ginger does not shy away from hard work. She has made it her life’s work to help those who have suffered injustice. She has a huge capacity for holding people's stories, and for making space to be a receptacle for others. Ginger challenges us to answer; HOW do we punish someone whose life has been so scarred?
Tick tock, tick tock, drip, drip, drip. For over 25 years, these sounds and the screams of mankind -- literal screams, the kind you cannot forget -- disturbed this week's special guest from his peace. Darryl Burton served hard time for a murder he did not commit. The compelling story of how he survived to walk free is an epic tale, but in his life today Darryl draws upon the experiences of the past to give others a brighter future. Today he follows a different calling -- the eternal call of faith in God. A preacher and a freedom fighter, Darryl spends his days visiting Covid-19 patients, inmates, and those who need a little faith. His nonprofit organization, The Miracle of Innocence was founded to get much-needed funds to those who are actually innocent and need referrals for legal representation. The organization supports re-entry of innocent prisoners through referrals and placement for housing, job opportunities, life skills, transportation, and much more. They also educate communities about the injustice and needs of innocent prisoners to gain support and advocacy for their release and re-entry success. Darryl offers solutions and an urgent plea for TLC. Please listen as Darryl creates the reality of the world with his words, faith, and deeds. Listen carefully to the challenge he offers to each of you. Will you answer the call?
Milton Grimes is a true American treasure. He is perhaps best known for his representation of Rodney King, whose savage beating at the hands of police, followed by the acquittal of the officers involved, sparked the 1991 LA riots. In addition to being a long time TLC faculty member and serving on the TLC board of directors, Milton is still a very active community activist for freedom and civil rights for all. He recently marched in California with his daughter to show support for those who have been oppressed and killed with a knee in their neck.
Milton decries racism and cites a recent statement signed by all 9 justices of the Washington Supreme Court challenging the legal community to take concerted action in supporting racial justice.
Milton provides an inside look into the long-standing problem of disparate treatment while in the midst of a worldwide pandemic. This interview is a message of hope from a battle-scarred and true warrior for justice. Beneath his armor, you will find a heart as big as the sky. Tune in for the magic of Milton Grimes,
Host Rafe Foreman talks with TLC alumni and faculty member Ashley Parris (TLC 2008) about how TLC alumni and faculty are developing innovative working and teaching methods to cope with and transcend the challenges of recent months. Ashley joined the faculty team of the Trial Lawyers College in 2017, and in this episode describes how she connected with other TLC faculty and alumni to process individual and collective anxiety and stress, and how the group was inspired to reach out and help others.
"Whose hand is on your shoulder? Whose shoulder is your hand on?" Ashley asks. "This is the time to reach out to those people."
"We have all felt rejected and excluded at some point. When we drill down to the feeling and the emotions that sit behind it, everyone can relate to that. And that's the place that you need to get to. And that's why this work is so valuable. And that's why we keep practicing it, and why we're determined to keep it alive to teach it to others."
Host Rafe Foreman talks with TLC alumni and faculty member Caroline Durham (TLC Sept 2014) about the stone catcher's path. Caroline uses her wit and wisdom in sharing her perspective that we are vibrational beings and how we can reach across time and distance to relate to one another. "We are never really separated from one another, unless we choose to be," Caroline says.
Caroline's concept of "Sacred Friends" (they're not who you think!) will cause you to ponder your next move.
"The College will always have that psychodramatic underpinning, that self-discovery and true knowledge of self, coupled with love, the most powerful thing there is. You can be who you are and be powerful. You don't have to be anybody else. You are enough."
TLC alumni and Board member JR Clary talks openly with host Rafe Foreman about story and its importance. “A story must be told in a way that allows the listener to understand that from my own human experience I can connect to the story you are telling. It awakens within me feelings of, for example, betrayal, or hurt or pain or immense joy. And because your story is awakening that feeling within me, we are like two piano strings that once one has been struck, the other resonates."
JR has served on the Board of Directors for the Trial Lawyers College since 2010 and currently serves as the TLC Treasurer.
"During my trip, I learned that in Latin American culture, hummingbirds symbolize strength, hope and migration. I knew that I wanted to use that symbol in my paintings when I got home."
TLC Podcast host Rafe Foreman interviews Portland artist Janie Lowe on her travels along the US/Mexico border and the artwork that resulted from her journey. Explore paintings from Janie's Borderland Stories collection as you listen.
In May of 2019, Janie traveled from her home in Portland to get a first-hand view of the people and the environment along the border between Texas and Mexico. Her travels took her from Brownsville to El Paso, donating supplies and volunteering at respite centers, visiting with landowners, and seeking to understand and capture the struggle for survival along the Rio Grande river.
Janie discusses the efforts underway to construct a wall along the border and how the wall will impact residents, migrants, and the environment. "The closer we got to the wall, the more opposition there was to it. I didn't talk to one person on the border that thought it was a good idea to put the wall up and that it would do any good at all."
She shares how what she observed surprised her, saying, "I think that I expected to go down there and be heartbroken and see all this injustice, but you don't see people rushing over the river, you don't see this rush of people. You don't see the detention centers. What I did not expect was the hope that I saw and felt. That ordinary people step in and do what needs to be done for humanitarian purposes, just to help people out. People will step in and do things where the government has failed."
"I believe...we’re going to see an incredible explosion in everything that TLC is, everything that TLC stands for, and everything that TLC can be."
TLC Podcast host Rafe Foreman interviews TLC President John Sloan on the strength of the Trial Lawyers College. A TLC graduate and seasoned trial lawyer, John graduated from TLC in 1998 and joined the faculty in 2002. He was named to the Board of Directors in 2010 and has served as President since 2014.
In this interview, John shares his belief in psychodrama as the bedrock of the Trial Lawyers College, and as an essential tool in connecting with clients and jurors. "The surprising thing is that through the psychodramatic method, you're going to find something in common with everyone." John first discovered psychodrama at the Trial Lawyers College in 1998, more than 18 years into his practice. "I had had some success by then, but I realized at TLC that I really didn't know very much about what was available to me in the practice of law. I didn't understand the power that could be at my beck and call if I was willing to put in the work to...discover the story, discover the emotion of the story, to learn to love even the unlovable client."
John describes the challenges the Trial Lawyers College faces in planning seminars and colleges in the midst of a pandemic and discusses how the College might evolve in the future, from video conferencing to offering more advanced training at regional seminars. "We have an incredible staff committed to our method, who have worked their butts off for years in continuing our method, perfecting it, and figuring out better ways to teach it. The Trial Lawyers College is strong, is going to continue, and is going to be better."
TLC Podcast host Rafe Foreman interviews TLC graduate, trial lawyer, and focus group researcher Bruce Phillips on creative ways to continue to drive your cases and your practice forward during tough times.
In this wide-ranging interview, Bruce describes how he has come to see the importance of blending the personal with the professional, rather than trying to keep them separated, as a tool for bringing new insight and intuition to trying a case. An accomplished musician, Bruce describes how "TLC was where I quite denying that side of myself and tried to find a way to integrate it into my practice." Whether literally composing a piece for use in a video to be used in a case, or simply playing music as a way to relax his mind and look at the issues in a different way, Bruce says he has found that bringing more of himself into a case allows him to be more connected and creative.
In 2019, Bruce started exploring the idea of conducting online focus groups in addition to traditional face-to-face sessions. The 2020 COVID-19 pandemic made the move to online essential and helped to promote broader use and improvements to web meeting technology. "While we're all sitting at home during this period of isolation, who else is sitting at home? Jurors!" Bruce says, encouraging his fellow TLC alum to explore this new opportunity. "Many of the TLC techniques can still be used in the online videoconferencing setting."
Bruce encourages TLC graduates to get in touch with him if they are interested in exploring the idea of online focus groups further. "Call if you're running your own focus group or you just need some help getting started. Right now is a wonderful opportunity to be of service to one another. The universe will bring it back in due time."
"Many of us are loved all the time, by many people. But if we don't get it the way we want it, the exact way we want...we don't feel loved. There is a piece of us that tends to not acknowledge the love around us."
TLC Podcast host Rafe Foreman interviews TLC psychodramatist Don Clarkson. Don Clarkson is a professor, psychodramatist and philosopher who has been with the Trial Lawyers College from its very creation. In this episode, Don talks about depression, his life and his hopes as he shares intimate solutions that may just be the answer you seek. He shares his perspective on how a crisis like COVID-19 can be an opportunity for self-reflection. "I think pain is our greatest teacher. I think it is the growth producer in our life," Don says.
Give a listen, you will not be disappointed.
"Medical school taught me how to diagnose symptoms and how to give the drug to treat... There is no money in chronic disease resolution; there is money in chronic disease management."
The TLC Podcast branches out this month as host Rafe Foreman interviews Texas physician, Dr. Ben Edwards, on the crossroads between medicine and the law.
Dr. Edwards made the shift to integrative medicine after building a successful practice in conventional medicine. He works with his patients to drill down to the root cause of their symptoms, considering the patient's unique needs and incorporating what he calls the "Four Pillars of Health" - nutrition, hydration, movement, and peace - to make lasting change.
In this wide-ranging interview, Dr. Edwards shares his observations about the US healthcare system, describing it as having the worst outcomes of any first-world nation, despite the highest spending on healthcare. He calls for a shift in the medical education system toward a more integrated, holistic model over the current pharmaceutical model.
The interview takes a deep dive into the development and administering of vaccines and discusses how injuries related to vaccinations were taken outside the court system, indemnifying vaccine developers and limiting compensation.
TLC Podcast host Rafe Foreman interviews trial lawyer and TLC graduate and faculty member Terry Lenamon on trying death penalty cases armed with methods learned and practiced at the Trial Lawyers College.
Terry is a trial lawyer practicing in Miami-Dade County, Florida, where he has built a reputation as one of Florida’s most respected criminal defense lawyers handling capital death penalty cases. He has handled in excess of 85 first degree murder cases. His experience has brought him national recognition as a go-to commentator on death penalty issues.
In this episode, Terry talks with Rafe about how discovering the story plays an expanded role in a death penalty defense, expanding beyond the story of the offense to consider the story of the defendant's life and circumstances leading up to the offense.
TLC Podcast host Rafe Foreman interviews trial lawyer and TLC graduate Benjamin Cloward (TLC Sept 2013) on how the methods taught in TLC courses translate to actual use in a trial.
Ben is a partner in the Richard Harris Law Firm in Las Vegas, Nevada. In 2017, Ben was recognized as the Nevada Justice Association’s Trial Lawyer of the Year, the youngest to receive the award. He was also named to the National Trial Lawyers list of “Top 40 Under 40,” reserved for the best young trial attorneys in the country.
Over the past several years, Ben has obtained verdicts in excess of $10 million on several cases; successes he attributes in large part to the methods learned at the Trial Lawyers College. As a follow-on to one of those cases, Ben successfully lobbied the Nevada legislature for passage of AB234 “Harvey’s Law,” requiring paratransit bus drivers to be trained in first aid. Harvey’s Law was inspired by Ben’s work with the Chernikoff family, whose mentally disabled son, Harvey, choked to death while riding a paratransit bus.
Most recently, Ben obtained a stunning verdict of $38.5 million in a wrongful death suit. Ben called on his TLC training and the support of the TLC tribe in preparing his case. “There’s not another community, ListServ, organization, or school of thought like TLC,” Ben said. “You have individuals who come from all walks of life, from all across the country, who come together with the common bond of wanting to be a warrior for their client…to be a voice for the voiceless.”
Ben loves people and loves to fight for those who can’t fight for themselves. When he’s not in the courtroom, he likes to be outdoors, hunting, fishing or long-range target shooting. Ben is a devoted husband, father and Boston Red Sox fan.
TLC Podcast host Rafe Foreman interviews Valeri Malone on how she has incorporated the methods learned at the Trial Lawyers College into her practice.
Valeri is an associate at Loncar Associates in Lubbock, Texas, where she specializes in personal injury and accident cases. She brings two decades of experience to her clients and to the Loncar team. Her reputation as a hard-working, successful trial lawyer has earned her the respect of her peers and the trust of her clients.
Valeri received her bachelor’s degree from Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches, Texas, and her juris doctorate from Texas Tech University School of Law. While in law school, Mrs. Malone was a member of the prestigious John Marshall National Moot Court Team and a National Semi-Finalist. She was selected for early admission to Texas Tech School of Law’s advocacy program, the Board of Barristers, in which she ranked first in her class. She was also the Chair of Appellate Advocacy for the Board of Barristers.
Valeri was named as a Texas Super Lawyer, Rising Star in 2007, in 2008, and in 2009 by Thomson Reuters.
Maren Chaloupka is a criminal defense and civil plaintiff’s trial lawyer. She has a diverse practice, and she especially enjoys working on civil rights cases, including wrongful conviction cases and cases involving medical and mental health care in jails and prisons. She lives in the small town of Scottsbluff, Nebraska, and serves clients wherever her work takes her. Maren is leading the Cross-Examination Constellation Regional Seminar at the Captain Cook Hotel in Anchorage, March 27-29, 2020. You can register your seat on the TLC Website at www.triallawyerscollege.org/register-for-a-course/
In this episode, Scott Glovsky, host of the popular podcast, Trial Lawyer Talk, TLC Graduate & Faculty Member talks about a recent wrongful death case with Brooks Cutter, Sacramento Trial Lawyer, and TLC Faculty Leader. Both of these incredible trial lawyers will be supporting TLC seminars in 2020. Learn methods to win at seminars across the nation that offer the acclaimed methods of Gerry Spence, Famed Trial Lawyer & TLC Co-Founder. https://www.triallawyerscollege.org/
Oklahoma Trial Lawyer, Jacqui Ford talks about the reputation of trial lawyers and the power of conversation and credibility in and out of the courtroom. Jacqui has been attending TLC courses since 2013 and joined the faculty in 2015. She has since broadened her practice from only criminal defense to criminal defense and civil work. She is an avid member of her Oklahoma Local Working Group and has always shown her passion for everything she does with TLC.
In this episode, TLC's host talks with the co-leaders of the newly structured TLC Graduate-1 program, Mel Orchard & Vicki Slater. The host was able to take a back-seat to the first-launched program last year to see how they brought the Graduates out of their comfort zones with theatrical arts and music as well as trial skills. Mel & Vicki talk highly about the effectiveness of bringing creativity in as an important skill in the TLC methods and how this can relay to the jury in trial.
Ian Anthony is our guest in this episode of the Trial Lawyers College Podcast. In this episode, we talk about how TLC differs from law school and why these differences are so important for trial lawyers. Ian Anthony is a 2016 July Graduate of the Trial Lawyers College and has attended several TLC courses since. He teaches trial advocacy at the University of Maryland School of Law and is the head coach for the trial team. He also practices as a public defender to indigents in Howard County, Maryland.
Welcome to episode 48 of the Trial Lawyers College Podcast. Donal McRoberts is our guest in this episode. He started his practice in 2011 handling family law and criminal defense, and by chance had an opportunity to represent a person injured in a car accident where the insurance company was denying responsibility and he’s been representing injured people since. Donal is a graduate of the 2018 July College Class and in this episode, he shares some insight into what goes on during the famous Flagship 3-Week College; the inspiration he felt while he was there and following, the connections he made and still has, and how the methods have drastically changed the way he feels about law, and how he uses them in his practice.
Join Donal as one of our students and learn methods that will change the way you practice law. You can register for a course or apply to the 3-Week College on our website at www.triallawyerscollege.org.
In this episode, Scott Glovsky, 2007 grad and faculty member, is hosting this interview with Frank Mungo. Scott is the host of successful podcast, Trial Lawyer Talk where he interviews many of today's Trial Lawyers. Episode guest, Frank Mungo, graduated from the Trial Lawyers College in 2008 and joined the faculty in 2011. He focuses his practice on defending those unjustly charged by the government in Kentucky, Ohio, and federal courts. Frank is quick to give credit to the methods taught at the Trial Lawyers College, from discovering the story to cross-examination, as the key reason for his courtroom successes.
Today, I sit down with Tor Ekeland, New York City based computer, trial and appellate lawyer and 2018 July Graduate of the Trial Lawyers College. In this episode, Tor talks about something that is current in all of our lives - System security - if it is cell phones, laptops, and all other forms of technology we use and how that is threatening our personal security. And later in this episode, we talk about Tor’s 3-Week experience at TLC and the impact the methods will bring to his practice. Our July College Application deadline is just around the corner. Join Tor as a TLC Graduate, and learn for yourself how these methods can change your life and practice.
In this episode, I sit down with long-time TLC grad and faculty member, John Naizby. John practices law in Connecticut but has consulted with cases in all 50 states. John has a quiet demeanor but his fight is extremely strong and that shows in this conversation. When he first started with TLC in 2000, he doubted the effectiveness of Psychodrama in his life, a TLC foundational skill. Once he started to realize how it could improve his relationships, his daily responses in life and his overall perspective, he has been able to deal with accepting difficult news. Every year TLC faculty members and staff love having John at TLC events because he brings a different approach and can relate to some students in a way that no other faculty member can. His love, passion, and commitment to his clients and the college are admirable and I feel lucky I had the opportunity to get to know him at TLC’s 3-Week July College this past year.
In this episode, I sit down with Eric Ganci, a top rated DUI lawyer in California. He is extremely passionate about his work and it shows in this episode. Eric explains what it took to gain success as a DUI Lawyer and some important steps to take if other attorneys are considering this line of lawyering. Eric also talks about the recent marijuana uprise in California and how different a DUI case is compared to taking on a Marijuana drug driving case.
In this episode I talk with Nelson Tyrone, famed birth injury lawyer from Atlanta, Georgia, who graduated from TLC in 2000 and joined the faculty the year following. Nelson volcalizes his connections with birth injury and what makes what he does so rewarding. He also talks about how he uses psychodrama in his everyday life and in every case he takes. This episode is extremely powerful because while we were talking, Nelson used a fundamental TLC skill; vulnerability. I hope you enjoy this conversation and keep listening to our episodes.
In this interview, we have a very special guest joining, Missouri Public Defender Laura O'Sullivan. Laura attended her first TLC course in 1998 and came back in 2009 for In Defense of the Damned, TLC's criminal defense program, and joined the faculty shortly after. In this episode, Laura describes the difficulties of being a public defender, what TLC lawyers and other lawyers can do to help their public defenders offices, and how TLC has impacted her practice and life.
PI Lawyer, Betsy Greene from Bloomington, Indiana is with us today. She has been a lawyer for over 35 years and graduated from TLC in 2005. She joined the faculty in 2010 and has since thus taught the TLC method at regionals, seminars, and TLC’s colleges. Betsy will be on the faculty at the Washington Closing Argument Regional later this month, October 25-28. To work with Betsy, register for the Washington Regional to learn the methods to Win your next case with the Gerry Spence teachings of Closing Argument. You can register on the website at www.triallawyerscollege.org.
We have a very special guest on this episode. Darryl Burton has been coming to the TLC since 2009 to talk to the students about death row and the 24 years he spent in prison as an innocent man. He faced many hardships, worked day in and day out to prove his innocence, and after years of sending letters and teaching himself the ins and outs of the justice system, he got a letter back from an innocence project stating they were going to take his case. His story is truly inspiring.
Darryl is having a Gala, September 8, 2018, at 6:30 pm in Leawood Kansas, for his new organization, The Miracle of Innocence. Our very own Milton Grimes, TLC Faculty, and Board Member will be a keynote speaker at the event. Tickets are available for purchase!
TLC Faculty Member Greg Reeves talks with Trial Lawyer Talk Host, and TLC Grad, Scott Glovsky about a capital murder case victory after 5 years of being a trial lawyer. Greg believes trial lawyers can learn a lot from comedians in the way they tell their story in front of an audience. Greg also explains how he uses powerful tools to find the universal truth in every case.
Eric Fong talks with Trial Lawyer Talk Host, and TLC Grad, Scott Glovsky about a medical malpractice case that had quite an impact on him due to the circumstances of all the problems this case had interwoven into it. He talks about his client and the difficulties he was dealing with after an extended undetermined medical problem and got more difficult when he found out his client had prior felony charges of IV abuse. There was also a magnitude of complications when Eric reached out to other attorneys or ‘friends’ to help with the case. But in the end, a couple weeks before trial, he listened to his heart and went in a different direction than anticipated and got the needed justice for his deserving client.
Missy Adrian, TLC Alumni Relations Assistant talks with two of TLC’s Psychodramatists on the importance and impact of using Psychodramatic techniques in the courtroom. Joining Missy in this interview are Mike Traynor and Louise Lipman. TLC's Psychodrama for Lawyers Seminar is June 5-11, 2018. Find out more and how to register your seat at the Trial Lawyers College .org website.
Today, Kim Savo, a Trial Lawyer's College faculty member interview Trial Lawyer Talk host, and host of many TLC Podcast Episodes, Scott Glovsky. The Trial Lawyer's College is fortunate to have these two attorneys on the faculty team. For many years, they have both had a great dedication to TLC as alumni and faculty members. Get to know TLC's Podcast and Trial Lawyer Talk Host, Scott Glovsky by listening in to this episode.
Today, Scott Glovsky interviews Corinne Mullen, a 1997 TLC Grad and TLC Faculty Member. She talks about how a recent case had a profound impact on her; how connecting with jurors is a large part of her practice and how it can also have a large impact on the verdict of a case. The biggest lesson Corinne learned from this case was discovering her client's story and connecting with her jurors.
Scott Glovsky interviews Mel Orchard, managing partner of the Spence Law firm in Wyoming and senior faculty member of the Trial Lawyer’s College. Mel receives a call from a colleague in Minnesota that essentially says this case will likely lose. This case particularly had a profound impact on Mel because it involved prejudice, discrimination, and racism in the workplace, from an urban city in the Midwest, in the ranks of American Corporate Culture.
We are going to continue sharing our 2007 TLC Graduate and Faculty Member, Scott Glovsky’s interviews with some of TLC’s faculty, board members, and students, hearing their stories and how they continue to bring justice to our nation. Today, Scott interviews Terry Lenamon, a 2011 TLC graduate that has been on the TLC faculty team since 2016. He has taught the last two years at Thunderhead Ranch for In Defense of the Damned Criminal Defense Seminar and will teach again this year. Terry started his career as a public defender in Florida in 1993 and transitioned to death row cases in 1998 and has thus tried 14 cases with no death verdicts. In this interview, Terry expresses how a recent death penalty case involving a young man accused of committing a brutal murder had a profound impact on him.
Milton Grimes, TLC Vice President and co-leader of the California Regional Seminar on Voir Dire, March 2-4, 2018, talks in detail about what the great lawyers have in common; about racism in America; and how taking action to stand up for what you believe in and speaking with ultimate honesty can free you in the courtroom and win the justice your clients deserve.
Connie Henderson, a trial lawyer in Washington State and TLC Faculty Co-Leader at the Cross Examination Seminar in Leavenworth WA, talks about the challenges of medical malpractice cases and how to overcome them.
Eric Fong, TLC faculty Co-leader for the upcoming Cross Examination Seminar, talks about the details of an effective cross examination - the goals, and the how-to's of the trial skill. He then goes into the daily work of a lawyer and the difficult task most lawyers face when it comes to balancing work and personal life, the best ways to spend your time as a lawyer and what holds many attorneys back.
In this interview, Ron Estefan (TLC '05) Houston-based personal injury trial lawyer and TLC faculty member talks about the importance of credibility in the courtroom. He describes how to build credibility, how to use it -- and how you can lose it -- and how it is essential during Voir Dire and all other interactions with the jury as you fight for justice for your client.
Zaki Zehawi (TLC '09), San Diego state public defender and TLC faculty member has dedicated his life to criminal defense. In this interview, he talks about some of the most difficult issues that public defenders face, how to work with difficult clients, accountability to yourself, and what are the most essential skills necessary to being the best advocate for your client.
Chris Trundy is a Massachusetts trial lawyer and one of the faculty co leaders at the upcoming Psychodrama for Lawyers Seminar. Chris’s fascination with trial law comes from the creativity and flow of a well told story and how it can help you win. We talk about how you can’t simply imitate the greats and expect to win. We then dive into what you can study in order to create consistent results in the courtroom, how you can tap into your own greatness in the courtroom and what are the subtleties that make the difference in the outcome of a case.
Kim Benjamin, trial lawyer and TLC faculty co-leader of the upcoming Psychodrama for Lawyers Seminar, discusses how to gain the trust of clients and how to work with the their families in a way that strengthens your case. She also talks about the fundamental skill of listening and how this can help you in every phase of your trials by better understanding where everyone involved in your case is coming from, including the jury, the prosecution, the judge and your client, and it can give you the edge that will help you win the case.
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