🎙 Joanna Page: From Litigation to Leadership — The Evolving Role of Mediation in Modern Law

Joanna Page, Partner at A&O Shearman and former Chair of CEDR, reflects on her career in litigation, governance, and mediation.

The conversation with Andy Roger, Principal Consultant & Mediator at CEDR explores the intersection of education, leadership, and evolving legal practice, offering invaluable lessons for both experienced practitioners and those entering the field.

💼 Learn more about Joanna’s experience, the future of mediation, and how listening, preparation, and innovation are reshaping the legal landscape.

⏱️ Episode Overview:
00:00 – Introduction and Joanna’s background at A&O Shearman
00:57 – Early reflections on legal education and training gaps
03:13 – Discovering mediation and the impact of CEDR’s approach
05:14 – From courtroom battles to early dispute resolution
07:08 – Why mediation training transforms young lawyers
09:21 – What law firms look for in trainees and client mindset
11:01 – The lawyer’s role in preparing clients for mediation
13:24 – Understanding interests: getting below the surface
16:04 – Lessons from CEDR’s Advanced Negotiation course
17:07 – Using the Thomas-Kilmann model in dispute resolution
21:29 – How mediation has evolved and where it must go next
24:59 – Designing flexible processes for complex disputes
28:00 – The art of listening — and why it’s harder than it seems
31:24 – Core values: integrity, energy, and determination
33:20 – The future of dispute resolution and opportunities for young lawyers

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