IADC Speaks

Strategy. Teamwork. Leadership. All key skills developed both on the court and in the courtroom. In this lifestyle spotlight series, hear from members of the IADC community who have a history in athletics.

IADC Speaks Host J.T. Wilson III (Epstein Becker & Green, P.C.) speaks with Amy Stewart (Stewart Law Group) about the lessons she’s learned on and off the basketball court and how they’ve influenced who she is as a lawyer. Hear how Amy identifies and elevates synergies, collaborates across differences, prepares to win and works to lose gracefully, the number one skill she picked up that applies to her practice, and the importance of building connections.

In this “Casual Convos with Past Presidents” series, hear from past presidents of the IADC as we explore their journeys, uncovering invaluable insights and moments that shaped their experiences within the IADC. Each episode in this three-part series features candid casual conversations about the challenges they faced, the pivotal decisions they made, and the wisdom they’ve gained. Tune in for inspiring stories and practical advice from past presidents of the IADC. 

In the third and final episode of this trilogy, Host Al Vance (Vance Dispute Resolution, PC) speaks with IADC Past Presidents Mark Beebe (Adams and Reese LLP) and Spencer Silverglate (Clarke Silverglate, P.A.).

In this episode of IADC Speaks, Host Matt Cairns (Textron Inc.) talks with Carolyn Riggs (Ice Miller LLP) and Randy Riggs (Frost Brown Todd LLC): father and daughter IADC members. Join us as they discuss their journeys into the legal profession, their professional and personal relationship, and their unique experiences and perspective with the IADC. Tune in for a thoughtful conversation about mentorship, the evolution of law, and the benefits of exposure only the IADC can provide.

In this inspiring episode of IADC Speaks, Host Cecilia Lahaye (Bird & Bird LLP) chats with IADC President Donna Lamontagne (Lamontagne, Spaulding & Hayes, LLP) about those who have shaped her life and her career – remarkable women who embody resilience, perseverance, and strength.

Join us as she shares stories of influential figures from her professional and personal spheres. From mentors and colleagues to family members, Donna highlights the powerful impact these role models have had on her journey.

First published in 1934, the IADC’s Defense Counsel Journal has a rich history. This esteemed journal has served as a vital forum for scholarly writings on the law, offering quality content on a diverse range of topics that resonate with its readership.

IADC Speaks Host Chris Berdy (Butler Snow LLP) speaks with Eric Lasker (Hollingsworth LLP), Marsha Piccone (Fox Rothschild LLP), and Peter Pizzi (Walsh Pizzi O’Reilly Falanga) who all have an intimate connection with the DCJ. Join us as we explore the Journal’s evolution over the decades, opportunities for involvement, and the impact it has had on the legal community.

From a private practice litigator to in-house counsel to a full-time arbitrator and mediator, Al Vance has had a storied career. IADC Speaks Host Matt Cairns (Textron Inc.) talks candidly with Al Vance (Vance Dispute Resolutions) about his experiences and legal journey.

Learn about when mediation was just part of the process and the moment it evolved to becoming his focus, hear the advice he would give himself as a litigator and as an in-house client from the other side, and discover what the velvet hammer approach is.

Here’s the scenario: You’ve been accepted as a member of one of the most prestigious defense organizations that includes innovative programming, a robust Committee platform, tailored support, and invaluable worldwide connections. Where do you even begin? 
 
IADC Speaks Host Mollie Benedict speaks with Sarah Armstrong, Carolyn Husmann, and Tara Ward, all newer members and members of IADC’s Engagement and Retention Committee, about practical ways to get involved in the Association. In this episode, hear about their journeys to the IADC, learn how to claim your space, and get actionable advice on how to make the most out of your membership.

If you’ve been around the IADC long enough, you’ll hear murmurs about “the crown jewel.”

In this episode, hear from IADC Speaks Host Jimmy Ordeneaux, along with eight special guests, as they talk about their recent experience as faculty members of IADC’s 50th Annual Trial Academy – “the crown jewel” – which took place in August. Hear them reflect on their experience: what surprised them, the value and importance of the program, and what they got out of it.

In this “Casual Convos with Past Presidents” series, hear from past presidents of the IADC as we explore their journeys, uncovering invaluable insights and moments that shaped their experiences within the IADC. Each episode in this three-part series features candid casual conversations about the challenges they faced, the pivotal decisions they made, and the wisdom they’ve gained. Tune in for inspiring stories and practical advice from past presidents of the IADC. 

In the second episode of this trilogy, Host Al Vance (Vance Dispute Resolution, PC) speaks with IADC Past Presidents John T. Lay (Gallivan, White & Boyd, P.A.) and Amy Sherry Fischer (Foliart, Huff, Ottaway & Bottom).

Recorded live at a poolside cabana, this IADC Speaks episode truly transports you to the Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club in Dana Point, California, home of the IADC 2025 Midyear Meeting. The 2025 Planning Team brings you along to soak in the serenity as they share a few meeting plans and what they can't wait for you to experience.

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