Circle City Conversations

Travis Jensen is the Co-founder and Partner at Johnson Jensen LLP and Co-chair of the Rule of Law Committee Initiative at the Indianapolis Bar Association, which promotes public and the legal community's understanding of judicial independence and the core principles of the legal profession. An accomplished trial lawyer deeply invested in his community, Travis has represented over 800 clients in personal injury and wrongful death cases in Indiana and nationwide. His experience as a defense lawyer and passion for psychology and its multiple roles in the trial process led him to develop the jury research process that is the foundation of his and his partner's company, Precognitive Jury Research, LLP.

Christine Hickey is the Managing Partner at Rubin & Levin, P.C. in Indianapolis and co-chairs the Indianapolis Bar Association's Rule of Law Committee Initiative. At the law firm, she specializes in creditors' rights, commercial collections, and litigation. She previously served as President of the Indianapolis Bar Association and Foundation, the National Conference of Bar Presidents, and the National Conference of Bar Foundations, and held leadership roles on the American Bar Association's Board of Governors and Executive Committee.

The erosion of public trust in legal institutions threatens the foundation of democracy. However, many people perceive the rule of law as unfair, inconsistent, or irrelevant to their daily lives. How can communities rebuild confidence in a system designed to provide accountability, fairness, and equal treatment for all?

According to Christine Hickey, an experienced attorney and legal leader, and Travis Jensen, a respected litigator, restoring confidence requires education, engagement, and visible leadership. Christine emphasizes simple, relatable explanations of the rule of law, while Travis points to the importance of involving young people and communities through initiatives like essay contests, school visits, and town halls. Together, they highlight how lawyers can lead by example, reinforcing fairness and consistency while empowering citizens to advocate for change the right way.

In this episode of Circle City Conversations, Alex Limontes interviews Travis Jensen and Christine Hickey, co-chairs for the Indianapolis Bar Association Rule of Law Committee Initiative, about strengthening public trust through the rule of law. Christine and Travis discuss why legal education matters, how community programs are changing public perception, and the importance of civic responsibility. They also discuss engaging youth in constitutional awareness and separating politics from fundamental rights.

Nabeela Virjee is a civil litigation attorney at Plews Shadley Racher & Braun LLP, one of the largest environmental and insurance coverage practices in the Midwest. Nabeela has an extensive litigation background for clients in personal injury, employment, and civil rights matters. She previously held the position of Assistant Corporation Counsel for the City of Indianapolis, where she defended the city in complex civil rights and employment cases. Additionally, Nabeela was recognized both as a Rising Star by Indiana Super Lawyers and among Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch in America for personal injury and commercial litigation.

Navigating a legal career while staying true to your values, healing from trauma, and serving underrepresented communities is no small feat. Many professionals face burnout or disillusionment when their work no longer aligns with their true purpose. How can lawyers and public servants rediscover their passion, pivot effectively, and use their voice to advocate for justice and change?

Nabeela Virjee, an experienced litigator in personal injury and employment law, shares a powerful journey marked by resilience, adaptability, and service. Drawing on her immigrant upbringing and early teaching career, Nabeela explains how systemic inequality shaped her desire to pursue a career in law. She offers insights on the value of taking unconventional career paths, the impact of real-life trauma on her decision to switch from defense to plaintiff work, and the importance of mentorship, vulnerability, and community. Nabeela emphasizes building authentic relationships and staying open to growth — even through pain.

In this episode of the Circle City Conversations podcast, Alex Limontes interviews Nabeela Virjee, a civil litigation attorney at Plews Shadley Racher & Braun LLP, about transforming adversity into purpose-driven legal work. Nabeela also discusses lessons from founding a distillery, litigating high-profile civil rights cases, and raising young children while growing her legal practice.

Brian Willsey is the Owner and CEO of Tinker House Events, a premier event venue located in Indianapolis. With a background in hospitality, finance, and real estate, Brian brings a hands-on, community-focused approach to small business leadership. As the Co-founder and Investor, he played a key role in launching Hotel Tango Distillery and later transformed Tinker House Events into a thriving space for weddings, corporate events, and nonprofit gatherings. Brian is also the Owner and CEO at PROVIDER Café and a Business Broker with Indiana Business Advisors.

Running a small business often means wearing many hats, navigating uncertainty, and balancing passion with profitability. But how do entrepreneurs build sustainable ventures, create meaningful community impact, and eventually prepare for a successful exit, all while raising a family and keeping their sanity?

Brian Willsey, an experienced entrepreneur, offers grounded advice on navigating this complexity. Drawing from his background in hospitality, real estate, and event operations, Brian emphasizes the value of service-industry skills, relationship-building, and learning through failure. He encourages business owners to take stock of their experiences, understand the value of their businesses, and embrace partnerships when the time is right. Brian also shares how community involvement and mentorship have shaped his leadership approach and kept him anchored through times of uncertainty.

In this episode of Circle City Conversations, Alex Limontes interviews Brian Willsey, Owner and CEO of Tinker House Events, about building and evolving a purpose-driven business. Brian shares lessons from launching an event space, the value of entrepreneurial failure, and how he's helping others exit their businesses successfully. He also explores family balance, community service, and Indy's growing hospitality scene.

W. Kent Winingham is a Partner at Wilson Kehoe Winingham (WKW), an Indianapolis law firm specializing in plaintiff-side medical malpractice, catastrophic injury, wrongful death, and product liability cases. A former competitive tennis player, he is passionate about client counseling, community involvement, and supporting survivors of traumatic brain injury. With a track record of litigating complex cases, Kent practiced at a prominent personal injury firm in Chicago before joining WKW in 2017. Recognized for his leadership, he was named Young Lawyer of the Year by the Indiana Trial Lawyers Association in 2020 and is the 2025 President-Elect of the Indianapolis Bar Foundation.

Medical malpractice and product liability cases are some of the most complex and emotionally charged areas of personal injury law. Clients often come to attorneys during the most devastating moments of their lives, confused and overwhelmed by legalities they don't understand. How can trial lawyers balance the legal, emotional, and strategic challenges of advocating for vulnerable clients while navigating Indiana's legal landscape?

Trial attorney W. Kent Winingham shares practical insights on how to manage the challenges of high-stakes litigation with empathy and precision. Kent emphasizes the importance of setting expectations early, especially in Indiana, where the medical review panel process and malpractice caps complicate outcomes. He advocates for selective case intake, thoughtful communication, and deep preparation, particularly in birth injury and traumatic brain injury cases. Kent also highlights the role of professional community involvement — such as bar foundations and legal associations — in expanding legal knowledge, peer support, and access to justice.

In this episode of Circle City Conversations, Alex Limontes interviews W. Kent Winingham, Partner at Wilson Kehoe Winingham, about navigating complex personal injury litigation in Indiana. Kent also discusses how to connect with grieving clients, lessons from his time as a public defender, and the value of legal community engagement through the Indianapolis Bar Association and the Indiana Trial Lawyers Association.

Morgan Decker is a Partner at Rubin & Levin, P.C., where she specializes in business law, commercial collections, and bankruptcy matters. With over a decade of experience, she has represented both debtors and creditors, providing strategic counsel on Chapters 7 and 13 bankruptcy cases, asset protection, and financial restructuring. Morgan is actively involved in the Indianapolis Bar Association, having served in leadership roles such as Chair of the Solo and Small Firm Division, Secretary of the Commercial & Bankruptcy Law Section, and was recognized as a Distinguished Fellow by the Indianapolis Bar Foundation in 2023.

Navigating the financial and emotional stress of debt can be overwhelming, especially for individuals and business owners facing the prospect of bankruptcy. Many hesitate to seek help, fearing stigma, permanent credit damage, or the loss of assets. But is bankruptcy truly the end of the road — or could it be a path toward renewal?

Morgan Decker, a seasoned partner and legal expert in bankruptcy and collections law, offers a grounded perspective on how bankruptcy can serve as a strategic tool rather than a last resort. Morgan emphasizes the importance of reframing bankruptcy as a means to reset and regain control rather than as a mark of failure. She shares actionable insights on the distinctions between Chapter 7 and Chapter 11 filings, how to assess a business's financial viability before making legal decisions, and the value of doing front-end due diligence — such as securing personal guarantees and researching business credentials. Morgan also underscores the personal and professional value of compassionate advocacy and staying present with clients during times of high stress.

In this episode of Circle City Conversations, Alex Limontes interviews Morgan Decker, Partner at Rubin & Levin, about redefining bankruptcy and balancing law with life. Morgan discusses her perspective on destigmatizing financial hardship, practical advice for both debtors and creditors, and the value of compassionate lawyering. She also reflects on the challenges of parenting as a working professional, the importance of presence in everyday moments, and her deep commitment to community service.

Jimmie McMillian is the Chief Diversity Officer and Senior Corporate Counsel for the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and all Penske Corporation-related entities, including INDYCAR and IMS Productions. He leads the company's Race for Equality and Change initiative to advance diversity in motorsports while managing legal matters such as contracts and litigation. Before joining Penske in 2016, he was a partner at Barnes & Thornburg LLP and clerked for Indiana Supreme Court Justice Frank Sullivan Jr. A graduate of Indiana University and the IU McKinney School of Law, Jimmie is also active in the community through board service and leadership of the 317 Ryders Motorcycle Club.

Race week is upon Indianapolis once again, and the excitement is palpable. The Indianapolis 500, known as the Greatest Spectacle in Racing, draws crowds from around the globe, eager to experience the thrill of the race and the festive atmosphere surrounding it. But what makes this event so special, and why is it a must-attend for racing fans and professionals alike?

Jimmie McMillian, a key figure at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, explains how the Indy 500 is not just a race but a celebration of community, tradition, and American spirit. According to Jimmie, the event is a unique blend of cutting-edge automotive technology and time-honored practices, making it a singular experience that TV simply cannot capture. He highlights the Snake Pit's legendary parties and the inclusive atmosphere that welcomes fans of all backgrounds. The Speedway's commitment to diversity and opportunity is also evident, with initiatives aimed at opening doors for underrepresented groups. Additionally, he encourages professionals to break the misconception that the Indy 500 is inaccessible, highlighting its affordability and community-oriented atmosphere. Jimmie also shares how involvement in industry-specific conferences helped him break into the racing world — offering a blueprint for others to do the same.

In this episode of Circle City Conversations, Alex Limontes interviews Jimmie McMillian, Chief Diversity Officer and Senior Corporate Counsel for the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, about the power of culture, racing, and connection at the Indy 500. Jimmie discusses using the track to build lasting relationships, creating inclusive spaces in motorsports, and why the Indy 500 is a must-see event. He also delves into career development through networking, breaking into niche industries, and the value of tradition.

Kate Franke is the Founder and a Partner at Broadwing Legal, a personal injury law firm based in Indiana. She focuses her practice on representing clients in cases involving truck and car accidents, medical malpractice, wrongful death, and product liability. Kate is actively involved in the legal community, having served on the Board of Directors for the Indiana Trial Lawyers Association and as a member of the American Association for Justice. She frequently speaks at industry events on topics such as personal injury law and the integration of technology in legal practice.

Trial preparation often hinges on anticipating how a jury will react — but many attorneys hesitate to run focus groups due to concerns over time, cost, and complexity. Without external feedback, lawyers risk presenting cases based solely on their own assumptions. How can attorneys validate their arguments, refine their storytelling, and prepare for surprises without draining their budgets?

Kate Franke, an experienced trial lawyer, has mastered the art of running affordable focus groups, utilizing platforms like Craigslist and Facebook to recruit diverse and representative jury pools. Drawing from her extensive experience, including insights gained from the American Association of Justice seminars, she emphasizes the importance of understanding what jurors find relevant about each case. Through focus groups, lawyers can identify potential weaknesses and fine-tune their presentations, ensuring they resonate with actual jurors. By conducting multiple focus groups and tweaking their approach, attorneys can adapt their narratives and strategies, ultimately increasing their chances of success in the courtroom.

In this episode of Circle City Conversations, Alex Limontes interviews Kate Franke, Founder and a Partner at Broadwing Legal, about practical ways attorneys can run budget-friendly focus groups. Kate discusses how to balance logistics and facilitation, the value of pre-discovery feedback, and why attorneys should resist relying on friends or family for mock juries. She also shares insights on participant vetting, incentive strategies, and effectively moderating online sessions.

Amy Davis is the Owner of the Law Office of Amy M. Davis, a firm based in Indianapolis, Indiana, specializing in personal injury and wrongful death litigation. Known for her competitive drive, Amy has secured substantial verdicts, including a notable $5.26 million settlement in Knox County, earning her Trial Lawyer of the Year award from the Indiana Trial Lawyers Association.

Katherine Karres is a Personal Injury Lawyer at Hurst Limontes LLC, an Indiana law firm focused exclusively on helping victims of negligence. With over 13 years of experience in injury litigation, Katherine has gone to trial with 27 injury cases over her legal career and has helped thousands of clients resolve their cases. Before joining Hurst Limontes, she worked as a medical negligence claims litigator. She has been named a Super Lawyers Rising Star from 2017 to 2022, Super Lawyers 2023 to present, and a Top 40 Under 40 by The National Trial Lawyers.

Medical malpractice cases are rarely straightforward — but when compounded by systemic issues, decades-old protections, and multiple layers of negligence, they become monumental undertakings. For grieving families, the emotional cost is compounded by a complex legal maze that prioritizes institutions over accountability. How can victims and their advocates navigate the system to achieve justice?

With extensive experience in plaintiff-side medical malpractice litigation, trial attorneys Amy Davis and Katherine Karres shed light on this harsh reality. They share the harrowing case of Jim Brower, an 82-year-old man who died after a rehab facility administered a lethal dose of methotrexate. Amy and Katherine narrate their multiyear litigation journey, explaining the complex legal framework of Indiana's med mal laws, the need for airtight evidence and significant damage, and how they fought through the state's three-stage trial process to secure a verdict. Together, they emphasize the importance of transparency, persistence, and advocating for legislative change to protect vulnerable patients.

In this episode of the Circle City Conversations podcast, Alex Limontes interviews Amy Davis, Owner of the Law Office of Amy M. Davis, and Katherine Karres, trial attorney at Hurst Limontes LLC, about a major medical malpractice case that spanned eight years. Amy and Katherine discuss the challenges of pursuing justice in Indiana's medical system, the value of attorney collaborations, and the future of elder care accountability.

Charles Hubley is a trial lawyer at Hurst Limontes LLC, a personal injury law firm based in Indiana. Before bringing his comprehensive knowledge and experience to Hurst Limontes, Charles litigated major insurance lawsuits while gaining experience taking cases to trial with many of the best trial lawyers in South Florida. While there, he achieved favorable jury verdicts and judgments against insurers such as State Farm, GEICO, Progressive, Allstate, and United Automobile Insurance Company, recovering hundreds of thousands of dollars for his clients.

A proud Hoosier, Charles was born and raised in Indianapolis, Indiana. He studied political science and history at Indiana University before attending the University of Miami School of Law, where he was a member of the renowned Miami Innocence Project, a legal clinic dedicated to identifying and exonerating innocent individuals.

When injury victims face insurance companies that refuse to offer fair compensation, they often feel powerless and uncertain about their legal options. Smaller claims can be particularly frustrating, as many attorneys shy away from litigating them, leaving injured individuals with inadequate settlements. How can everyday people effectively challenge insurance companies and pursue rightful compensation?

Trial lawyer Charles Hubley shares how persistence, preparation, and a willingness to go to court — no matter the case size— can shift the power dynamic back in favor of the injured. Charles explains the shortcomings of Indiana's workers' compensation laws, why some lawyers avoid certain cases, and how his team steps in anyway. He advises individuals injured in gig economy roles, such as DoorDash or Instacart drivers, to thoroughly understand the protections available to them, as these claims are often complicated and undervalued. With vigilant advocacy in emotionally charged cases, like those involving sexual assault and negligent security, attorneys and victims can hold companies accountable and prevent future harm.

In this episode of Circle City Conversations, Alex Limontes interviews Charles Hubley, trial attorney at Hurst Limontes LLC, about litigating personal injury and wrongful death cases. Charles also discusses navigating negligent security cases, overcoming jury unpredictability, and how working with vulnerable clients such as minors shapes his legal approach.

Timothy F. Devereux is a Partner at Wagner Reese, LLP, an Indianapolis-based personal injury law firm. With over 30 years of legal experience, he specializes in product liability, construction site injuries, industrial accidents, and catastrophic personal injury cases. Licensed in Indiana, Illinois, Texas, and Colorado, Timothy has argued cases before the Indiana and Colorado Supreme Courts, the 7th and 10th Circuit Courts of Appeals, and the Indiana Court of Appeals. He serves on the Board of Directors for the Indiana Trial Lawyers Association, has held leadership roles in the Indianapolis Bar Association, including serving as Vice President, and is a nationally published author in Matthew Bender's Products Liability Practice Guide.

A routine drive or a day at work should never end in tragedy, but accidents caused by negligence happen far too often. From bridge collapses to unsafe construction sites, safety failures put lives at risk and leave victims searching for justice. When multiple parties are involved, how do litigators determine liability, and what legal avenues exist for those affected?

Seasoned trial lawyer Timothy F. Devereux has dedicated his legal career to tackling these intricate construction and industrial liability cases. He demystifies the complexities of liability, demonstrating how federal regulations, contractual obligations, and nondelegable duties impact fault determination. With real case examples, including a devastating bridge collapse and a worker falling into an open elevator shaft, Timothy offers insights into how legal professionals uncover negligence and hold responsible parties accountable. He highlights the importance of thorough investigations, proactive safety measures, and in-depth knowledge of the legal avenues available for victims.

In this episode of Circle City Conversations, Alex Limontes continues the special fireside chat with Timothy F. Devereux, Partner at Wagner Reese, LLP, as they explore the legal challenges of construction and industrial accident cases. Timothy discusses liability through contracts and conduct, how plaintiff lawyers drive critical safety changes in consumer products, and the role of federal regulations in preventing traffic-related injuries. He also delves into voir dire strategies and punitive relief in Indiana.