BarBuzz

In this episode of BarBuzz, Executive Director sits down with TBA President Charlotte Knight Griffin to discuss her path to TBA leadership, her Memphis roots and her vision for the year ahead. Griffin shares her priorities of public education and access to justice, including efforts to strengthen civic education through programs like the Tennessee High School Mock Trial Competition and expand pro bono opportunities for senior and retired attorneys. She also discusses the TBA's statewide pro bono portal, what she hopes to accomplish during her bar year and how attorneys at every stage of their careers can contribute to their communities and the profession.

On this month's episode of TBA's BarBuzz podcast, host and Communications Coordinator Azya Thornton sits down with Tennessee Bar Journal Editor Julia Wilburn for a behind-the-scenes look at one of the TBA's longest-running publications. Wilburn discusses what goes into producing each issue, from working with the seven-member editorial board and editing and proofreading submissions to selecting content, coordinating design, and balancing articles across practice areas. She also explains what makes a strong Journal submission, what topics tend to resonate with readers and how members can submit their own work. Tune in to hear Wilburn share some of her favorite and most challenging parts of the job, along with advice for anyone who has considered writing for the Journal.

The latest episode of the TBA's BarBuzz podcast celebrates the recipients of the 2026 Public Service Awards, recognizing attorneys, law students and volunteers whose dedication to service has strengthened access to justice across Tennessee.

Host and TBA Communications Coordinator Azya Thornton is joined by TBA Access to Justice Director Chelsea Bennett and Young Lawyers Division and Law Student Development Director Laura Labenberg to discuss the awards, what they recognize and how TBA members can nominate deserving colleagues in the future.

The episode also features conversations with Ashley T. Wiltshire Public Service Attorney of the Year Jennifer Egelston, Harris Gilbert Pro Bono Attorney of the Year Garrah Carter-Mason and CASA Volunteer of the Year Tracy Farmer, who share the stories behind their work, what inspires their commitment to public service and why access to justice remains at the heart of the legal profession. The episode also recognizes Law Student Volunteer Award recipient Sierra Sidoti, who was unable to participate because she was preparing for the bar exam.

In this special convention edition of BarBuzz, recorded live at the TBA's Annual Convention in Knoxville, host Azya Thornton talks with TBA leaders, staff and exhibitors about the future of the legal profession and the association. The episode features TBA President Charlotte Knight Griffin, YLD President Jennifer Sneed Perry, Executive Director Sheree Wright and new Data and Systems Analyst David Lazar, who discuss leadership, member services, professional development and priorities for the year ahead. The episode also includes conversations with Tech Showcase exhibitors about emerging legal technology, artificial intelligence and resources designed to help attorneys strengthen their practices while highlighting the networking, CLE programming and collaboration that define the TBA Annual Convention.

In this episode of BarBuzz, Communications Coordinator Azya Thornton sits down with Jennifer Vossler, director of education and professional development, and Jarod Word, senior education and professional development coordinator, to discuss how the Tennessee Bar Association continues to expand and adapt its CLE programming. The conversation highlights the success and growth of the Estate Planning & Probate Forum, which recently drew more than 250 attorneys, and offers insight into how large-scale programs are developed, including selecting timely topics and engaging speakers. The episode also previews upcoming CLE opportunities and new programs the TBA has to offer. Listeners will also learn about the TBA's robust on-demand catalog and opportunities to get involved as presenters, underscoring the organization's commitment to supporting attorneys at every stage of their careers.

To access TBA's on demand library or see upcoming CLE events visit our website at https://cle.tba.org/

The latest episode of BarBuzz takes a deep dive into legislative advocacy and what Tennessee lawyers can expect from the Tennessee Bar Association during the 2026 legislative session. We are joined by TBA lobbyists Berkley Schwarz, Ashley Harbin and Brad Lampley to discuss priorities for the second year of the 114th General Assembly, including indigent representation funding, adoption, family and probate legislation. The episode also highlights TBA initiatives such as the Public Service Academy, Day on the Hill and LAWPAC, and explains how members can stay informed and get involved. Beginning next week, BarBuzz will also launch its first episode of a new weekly legislative podcast, offering regular updates from the Capitol and insight into issues affecting Tennessee lawyers.

This month's episode of BarBuzz takes a festive and reflective turn. Hosts Azya Thornton and Hank Elliott share lighthearted courtroom stories and holiday traditions submitted by TBA members and staff — from memorable probate court moments to cookie baking, tamale-making and even a legendary flour fight. The episode wraps up by looking ahead to 2026, including an exciting milestone for the Tennessee Bar Association with the announcement of its new permanent home. It's a relaxed, cheerful conversation celebrating community, connection and what's next for the TBA.

Thanks to our episode sponsor AIM! Check out what all AIM offers here.