LawHer

LawHer

By Sonya Palmer, Rankings.ioSociety & CultureBusinessCareers
Download on the App Store

LawHer episodes

  • 63. On Being First: Holding Open the Doors We Walk Through w/ Andrea La'Verne Edney

    "You get to a certain point in your career where the biases become your strength. You take those things, you use them to your advantage. Use them as teachable moments, not only for the person who is biased, but also for yourself." - Andrea Edney


    When you're both "the first" and determined not to be "the only" – how do you wield power effectively? 


    When the phone rang late one evening, Andrea La'Verne Edney had no idea her life was about to change forever. The voice on the other end delivered news that would make history: she had been elected president of the American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA), becoming the first African American woman to hold this prestigious position. 


    But what does it truly mean to be "the first" in a profession where women—especially women of color—remain dramatically underrepresented? Host Sonya Palmer uncovers what happens after the glass ceiling shatters, and why Andrea found herself fighting an unexpected battle even after reaching the pinnacle of her profession. The answer might surprise you—and it speaks volumes about the complex power dynamics still at play in today's legal landscape.


    About Andrea La'Verne Edney

    Andrea La'Verne Edney is a Partner at Butler Snow with over 25 years of litigation experience specializing in pharmaceutical, medical device, and healthcare litigation. She is the First female African American president of ABOTA (2024), Chair of Butler Snow's Diversity & Inclusivity Committee, Fellow of International Academy of Trial Lawyers, Fellow of American College of Trial Lawyers, Fellow of International Society of Barristers, and U.S. Delegate at The Forum on Rule of Law, U.S. Supreme Court (2022)

    Andrea La’Verne Edney: LinkedIn 

    Butler Snow: Website


    What’s in This Episode:
    • From "Boss" to Barrier-Breaker: Discover how being the youngest of 14 children in the Mississippi Delta surprisingly prepared Andrea for leadership, and why her siblings nicknamed her "boss" from an early age.
    • The Unexpected Challenge After Victory: Learn why Andrea's historic ABOTA presidency was celebrated nationwide but faced surprising resistance locally, revealing hidden obstacles women of color face even after reaching the top.
    • Building Power Through Paying It Forward: Hear Andrea's powerful philosophy on creating lasting change: "I believe in not just being the first of anything, but the one that started the beginning of others following."
      16 min
    • Season 3: Coming March 19

      Season 3 of LawHer gives you the tools to own your power faster—and keep it longer. We bring you the real-life stories, data-driven insights, and proven strategies from women lawyers at the peak of their fields.


      By tuning in, you’ll gain a roadmap for breaking conventions and reshaping success in your own image. This isn’t just about hearing inspirational stories—it’s about learning practical strategies that can accelerate your career, expand your influence, and open doors for the next generation of women in law.

      2 min
    • 62. From Federal Trade Commission to MasterChef Finalist: A Lawyer's Recipe for Defining Success and Finding Joy — Kamay Lafalaise, Master Chef Contestant

      How do we pursue our passions without compromising our professional commitment?


      Kamay Lafalaise (@kamay.lafalaise) is shattering stereotypes and rebuilding success in her own image. By day, she's negotiating the complex landscape of privacy law at the Federal Trade Commission. By night, she's turning up the heat as a contestant on MasterChef. She's crafting a career that combines her legal expertise with her passion for cooking, proving that success and joy aren't mutually exclusive.


      We explore how Kamay navigates the ever-shifting terrain of privacy law, bringing creativity and adaptability to a field where the rules seem to change daily. But more than that, we'll delve into how she's designed a life that honors all aspects of her identity.


      Kamay's journey offers inspiring insights into creating a life that's both successful and fulfilling on our own terms.


      From the halls of the FTC to the MasterChef kitchen, Kamay is redefining what it means to be a successful lawyer in the millennial era. She's living proof that we can negotiate our way to a life that embraces our whole selves.


      Take your growth to the next level at the very first PIM Conference

      Get your PIMCON Ticket Today!


      Links

      Want to hear more from elite personal injury lawyers and industry-leading marketers?

      Follow us on social media for more.

      Rankings.io Instagram

      LawHer Instagram

      Rankings.io Twitter

      Rankings.io Website

      Kamay Lafalaise LinkedIn

      Kamay Lafalaise Website 

      Kamay Lafalaise TikTok

      Kamay Lafalaise Instagram 


      What’s in This Episode:
      • Who is Kamay Lafalaise?
      • The rapidly evolving landscape of privacy law, big data, and AI presents both challenges and opportunities for lawyers.
      • As a Black woman lawyer and MasterChef contestant, Kamay is breaking stereotypes about what a successful lawyer looks like.
      • Don't take things personally in negotiations. If someone's perspective doesn't align with yours, ask why they feel that way and hear them out.
      • 52 min
      • 61. Change From The Top: How to Build a Healthy Workplace Culture — Angela Reddock-Wright, Reddock Employment Law

        We're thrilled to present the third and final mini-series of Season 2, "Art of Negotiation.” In this series, we explore negotiation as a professional skill and a life-changing art form. We'll sit down with an extraordinary array of women who've mastered the negotiation table in various arenas: a former judge, a federal Trade Commission attorney who's also competed on Master Chef, skilled mediators, and experts in Title Nine and workplace disputes.

        ——————


        Do well by doing good. We're joined by Angela Reddock-Wright (@iamangelareddockwright), a remarkable attorney whose journey embodies the principle that success and social responsibility go hand in hand. From marching in picket lines as a child to becoming a top-rated employment lawyer and mediator, Angela's story is a testament to the impact of values-driven leadership.


        She's not just advising on workplace issues; she's actively creating healthier work environments through her roles as a mediator, investigator, and civic leader.


        What sets Angela apart is her firm belief that positive change starts at the top. She challenges law firms and businesses to practice what they preach, modeling the kind of work environments they advise their clients to create.


        Take your growth to the next level at the very first PIM Conference

        Get your PIMCON Ticket Today!


        Links

        Want to hear more from elite personal injury lawyers and industry-leading marketers?

        Follow us on social media for more.

        Rankings.io Instagram

        LawHer Instagram

        Rankings.io Twitter

        Rankings.io Website

        Angela Reddock-Wright LinkedIn

        Reddock Employment Law Website

        Angela Reddock-Wright Website

        Angela Reddock-Wright Instagram 

        Book: The Workplace Transformed: 7 Crucial Lessons from the Global Pandemic


        What’s in This Episode:
        • Who is Angela Reddock-Wright?
        • Strategies for creating healthier work environments as a lawyer or mediator
        • The importance of leading by example in law firms and businesses
        • Practical ways to integrate civic engagement and mentorship into your career
        • 30 min
        • 60. Soft Skills, Hard Impact: How Women Are Transforming Dispute Resolution — Ret.Judge Dalila C. Lyons, Signature Resolution

          We're thrilled to present the third and final mini-series of Season 2, "Art of Negotiation.” In this series, we explore negotiation as a professional skill and a life-changing art form. We'll sit down with an extraordinary array of women who've mastered the negotiation table in various arenas: a former judge, a federal Trade Commission attorney who's also competed on Master Chef, skilled mediators, and experts in Title Nine and workplace disputes.

          ——————


          Discover how women are reshaping the legal landscape, from the courtroom to the negotiation table. In this episode, we explore the subtle yet powerful changes transforming the world of law with Honorable Dalila Lyons, a trailblazer whose career mirrors the progress of women in the legal profession. 


          From being the first in her family to attend college to serving 18 years on the Los Angeles Superior Court bench, Dalila now brings her unique perspective to private mediation. 


          Learn how the rising tide of women in judiciary roles is impacting the administration of justice, why "soft skills" are becoming a secret weapon in high-stakes negotiations, and how diversity on the bench is increasing public confidence in our legal system.


          Take your growth to the next level at the very first PIM Conference

          Get your PIMCON Ticket Today!


          Links

          Want to hear more from elite personal injury lawyers and industry-leading marketers?

          Follow us on social media for more.

          Rankings.io Instagram

          LawHer Instagram

          Rankings.io Twitter

          Rankings.io Website

          Ret. Judge Dalila C Lyons LinkedIn

          Signature Resolution Website 


          What’s in This Episode:
          • Who is Ret. Judge Lyons?
          • How the increasing presence of women judges is impacting the judiciary and the administration of justice.
          • How women's "soft skills" like active listening, emotional intelligence, and collaborative problem-solving contribute significantly to negotiation and mediation processes.
          • Why women in the legal profession still face challenges and barriers, particularly in achieving leadership positions.
          • 44 min
          • 59. Conflict to Opportunity: Crafting Win-Win Outcomes in Mediation   — Angela Bruno, Bruno Nalu

            We're thrilled to present the third adn final mini-series of Season 2, "Art of Negotiation.” In this series, we explore negotiation as a professional skill and a life-changing art form. We'll sit down with an extraordinary array of women who've mastered the negotiation table in various arenas: a former judge, a federal Trade Commission attorney who's also competed on Master Chef, skilled mediators, and experts in Title Nine and workplace disputes.

            ——————

            Mastering the art of negotiation can transform not just your legal career, but every aspect of your life. Angela Bruno, Co-founder of Bruno Nalu (@bruno_nalu), explains how. She is a fearless client advocate with a commitment to the mediation process and securing high settlements.


            She emphasizes that negotiation is far more than just hammering out dollar amounts – it's about understanding people, creating the right environment, and playing the long game.

            From preparing clients for mediation to maximizing case value, Angela offers practical strategies that go beyond the textbook. She stresses the importance of knowing your bottom line, understanding your client's needs, and being prepared to adapt your approach in the heat of the moment.


            But this episode isn't just about courtroom tactics. Angela also addresses the challenges women face in the legal field and how negotiation skills can be a powerful tool for change. She shares inspiring insights on how women can support each other and negotiate their place at the top of the legal profession.


            Take your growth to the next level at the very first PIM Conference

            Get your PIMCON Ticket Today!


            Links

            Want to hear more from elite personal injury lawyers and industry-leading marketers?

            Follow us on social media for more.

            Rankings.io Instagram

            LawHer Instagram

            Rankings.io Twitter

            Rankings.io Website

            Angela Bruno LinkedIn

            Bruno Nalu Website

            BRUNO  NALU Instagram


            What’s in This Episode:
            • Who is Angela Bruno?
            • Strategies for developing crucial negotiation skills
            • How to leverage these skills both in and out of the courtroom
            • Unique challenges and opportunities for women in negotiation
            • Insights on building a successful legal career
            • 59 min
            • 58. Rewrite the Rules: Tech, Balance, and Building a Firm That Works for You — Miriam Airington-Fisher, Airington Law

              We're thrilled to present the second mini-series of Season 2, "Titans of Tech.” From solo practitioners to managing partners, from courtroom warriors to tech innovators, we're sharing the stories of women leveraging technology to stake their claim at the top.


              Challenge the traditional legal practice. Mirial Airington-Fisher, founder of Airington Law (@lasabogadasdelpueblo) and author of "Mom's a Lawyer" shares her revolutionary approach to building a thriving immigration law firm while prioritizing work-life balance. Discover how Miriam has reshaped her legal practice to fit her life, not the other way around. 


              Claim your rightful place at the top. Take your growth to the next level at the very first PIM Conference

              Get your PIMCON Ticket Today!


              Links

              Want to hear more from elite personal injury lawyers and industry-leading marketers?

              Follow us on social media for more.

              Rankings.io Instagram

              LawHer Instagram

              Rankings.io Twitter

              Rankings.io Website

              Miriam Airington-Fisher LinkedIn

              Airington Law Website

              Mirial Airington-Fisher Website

              Airington Law Instagram 

              Book: Mom's a Lawyer: How to Start a Firm and Take Control of Your Life


              What’s in This Episode:
              • Who is Miriam Airington-Fisher?
              • Innovative use of virtual assistants in legal practice
              • Reimagining client service for the digital age
              • Creating a firm culture that supports working parents
              • Strategies for aligning your legal career with personal values
              • 46 min
              • 57.  Duty to Innovate: Why Women Lawyers Can't Afford to Ignore Tech — Leah Molatseli, Legal Tech and Innovation Specialist

                We're thrilled to present the second mini-series of Season 2, "Titans of Tech.” From solo practitioners to managing partners, from courtroom warriors to tech innovators, we're sharing the stories of women leveraging technology to stake their claim at the top.


                In a world where legal services remain out of reach for billions, one woman is leveraging technology to bridge the justice gap. Meet Leah Molatseli (@leahmolatseli) , a South African legal tech innovator who's redefining what it means to practice law in the digital age. As an attorney, tech entrepreneur, and champion for women in STEM, Leah brings a unique perspective to the intersection of law and technology.


                Leah's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and innovation. Becoming a mother at 19 while in law school, she navigated the challenges of traditional law firm culture before pivoting to create her own path in legal tech. 


                Leah shares her insights on how technology is making legal services more affordable and accessible to underserved communities. She addresses the critical skills gap in legal education, advocating for technological competence as an ethical obligation for modern lawyers. 


                For women looking to break into the male-dominated fields of law and tech, Leah offers candid advice on overcoming imposter syndrome and leveraging your unique strengths.


                Take your growth to the next level at the very first PIM Conference

                Get your PIMCON Ticket Today!


                Links

                Want to hear more from elite personal injury lawyers and industry-leading marketers?

                Follow us on social media for more.

                Rankings.io Instagram

                LawHer Instagram

                Rankings.io Twitter

                Rankings.io Website

                Leah Molatseli LinkedIn

                Leah Molatseli Website 

                Leah Molatseli Instagram (@leahmolatseli) 


                What’s in This Episode:
                • Who is Leah Molatseli?
                • Why is technological competence becoming an ethical obligation for lawyers, and how can law schools address this skills gap?
                • How can legal technology be leveraged to bridge the justice gap and make legal services more accessible to underserved communities?
                • What unique opportunities and challenges do women face in the legal tech space, and how can they overcome imposter syndrome?
                • 50 min
                • 56.  Disrupting Big Law: How Data and Tech Level the Playing Field — Dawn Smith, Smith Clinesmith

                  Season two is here! We're thrilled to present the second mini-series of Season 2, "Titans of Tech.” From solo practitioners to managing partners, from courtroom warriors to tech innovators, we're sharing the stories of women leveraging technology to stake their claim at the top.

                  Dawn Smith is a testament to the belief that those who work hard and dream big can accomplish anything – no matter what the odds. From humble beginnings, Dawn has risen as one of the nation's top mesothelioma attorneys. From 2005 to 2010, she achieved over $60 million in verdicts and settlements. In 2011, she took on 500 asbestos cases simultaneously, with her trial team securing a historic $322 million verdict - the largest single-plaintiff asbestos award ever. Throughout her career, Dawn has amassed over $350 million in verdicts and settlements across various practice areas, including mesothelioma, medical malpractice, elder abuse and neglect.

                  This episode explores Dawn's strategic use of technology and data to transform her practice, Smith Clinesmith (@smithclinesmithllp) . She discusses implementing analytics for informed decision-making, effective delegation in a digital environment, and leveraging technology for case management.

                  Her approach goes beyond traditional methods, offering a fresh perspective for women aiming to advance in established firms or build their own practices. Her journey from handling high-profile cases to becoming one of the nation's most impactful mesothelioma attorneys provides a roadmap for success in today's evolving legal landscape.

                  Get your PIMCON Ticket Today!


                  Links

                  Want to hear more from elite personal injury lawyers and industry-leading marketers?

                  Follow us on social media for more.

                  Rankings.io Instagram

                  LawHer Instagram

                  Rankings.io Twitter

                  Rankings.io Website

                  Dawn Smith LinkedIn

                  Smith Clinesmith Website

                  Smith Clinesmith  Instagram


                  What’s in This Episode:
                  • Who is Dawn Smith?
                  • How can technology be leveraged to scale a law practice and handle complex litigation efficiently?
                  • What role does process documentation play in scaling a law firm, and how can it be effectively implemented?
                  • How can women in law use innovative approaches and technology to overcome traditional barriers and achieve success in the legal field?
                  • 40 min
                  • 55.  Owning the Room: Decoding Success and the eDiscovery Revolution — Ariana Tadler, Tadler Law

                    Season two is here! We're thrilled to present the second mini-series of Season 2, "Titans of Tech.” From solo practitioners to managing partners, from courtroom warriors to tech innovators, we're sharing the stories of women leveraging technology to stake their claim at the top.

                    Ariana Tadler, managing partner at Tadler Law (@tadlerlaw) is a trailblazer who has been reshaping the landscape of complex litigation for over two decades. Ariana isn't just a successful attorney - she's a tech innovator who recognized the potential of eDiscovery long before it became a buzzword. As the founder of Tadler Law, Ariana has built a reputation for leveraging technology to level the playing field in high-stakes cases. Her expertise has earned her a seat on the Federal Civil Rules Advisory Committee, where she's helped shape the rules governing electronic discovery nationwide.


                    We explore how Ariana built her niche in eDiscovery, her strategies for "owning the room" in high-pressure situations, and her vision for the future of legal tech. Ariana shares insights on creating a firm culture that prioritizes empathy, grit, and innovation, offering valuable lessons for both seasoned attorneys looking to embrace innovation and young lawyers seeking to carve out their own path.


                    Get your PIMCON Ticket Today!


                    Links

                    Want to hear more from elite personal injury lawyers and industry-leading marketers?

                    Follow us on social media for more.

                    Rankings.io Instagram

                    LawHer Instagram

                    Rankings.io Twitter

                    Rankings.io Website

                    Ariana Tadler LinkedIn

                    Tadler Law Linkedin 

                    Tadler Law Website

                    Tadler Law Instagram 


                    What’s in This Episode:
                    • Who is Ariana Tadler?
                    • Ariana's journey as a tech innovator in law, particularly in eDiscovery
                    • The founding of Tadler Law and its focus on leveraging technology in high-stakes cases
                    • Creating a firm culture that emphasizes empathy, grit, and innovation
                    • How to turn technological change into professional opportunities in law
                    • 1 hr 2 min

                    About LawHer

                    From the publisher's feed

                    LawHer Season 3: How the boldest and brightest women in law own power faster and keep it longer. Despite outnumbering men in law schools, women remain underrepresented in legal leadership. LawHer…

                    More shows like LawHer

                    The Law Firm Blueprint by Jay Ruane & Seth Price

                    The Law Firm Blueprint

                    19 Listeners