In this episode of ABOTA Speaks, host Jake Courtney talks with Jonathan Shapiro, a former federal prosecutor turned Emmy and Peabody Award-winning television writer and producer. Known for his work on shows like The Practice, Boston Legal, and Goliath, Shapiro shares how his decade as a trial lawyer prepared him for a career writing for television — and why the two professions require the same fundamental skill set: storytelling.

Shapiro discusses his creative process, his collaborations with legendary producer David E. Kelley, and his current projects including adapting Robert Harris's books about Cicero and his play about Justices Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Sandra Day O'Connor. He also talks about his book How to Be Abe Lincoln: Seven Steps to a Legendary Life and why Lincoln remains his model for leadership and advocacy.

Whether you're a trial lawyer looking to sharpen your storytelling skills or simply curious about the creative process behind courtroom dramas, this conversation offers practical wisdom and entertaining stories from someone who has succeeded in both worlds.