Leading the Bar

In the 75-year history of the NCBP, only 10 of its presidents have been female. In this episode, Amanda Arriaga talks with two of these trailblazing women, Marna Tucker and Jennifer Parent, to hear their stories of leadership and inspire future generations of women as they pursue leading roles in law. They reflect on the challenges they faced on their paths to leadership roles, the mentors and moments that shaped their careers, and the importance of resilience in a historically male-dominated profession.

To learn more about NCBP or to become a member, visit ncbp.org

This bonus episode of Leading the Bar features a special installment from the Council of Firsts series, which spotlights trailblazing leaders who were the “first” to break barriers in their bar associations.

In the next episode of the Council of Firsts, Amanda Arriaga, first Latina president of the Austin Bar talks to Robin Wolpert, Past President of the National Conference of Bar Presidents (NCBP) and Past President of the Minnesota State Bar. This episode was recorded at the American Bar Association/National Conference of Bar Presidents meeting in Louisville, Kentucky. To learn more about NCBP, visit https://ncbp.org

Strengthening relationships between the bench and the bar is essential to the health of our legal system and the effectiveness of professional collaboration, but achieving that alignment is not always straightforward. Building on their plenary session at the NCBP Midyear Meeting, Judges Bridget Duignan and Ann Keele join us to go into greater depth on strategies for fostering stronger cooperation within bar associations among both lawyers and judges. They emphasize the importance of engaging in bar service as equals, elevating peers into leadership roles, and remaining grounded in the mission and purpose of the association.

Later, drawing on their experiences as women in leadership, Bridget and Ann share their perspectives on the evolving role of women in the legal profession. They reflect on shifting attitudes, and offer practical ways to support and empower women in law. They also provide a thoughtful vision of effective leadership—one rooted in inclusivity, intentional space-making, principled neutrality, and a steadfast commitment to the oath and ideals of the profession.

To learn more about NCBP or to become a member, visit ncbp.org

This bonus episode of Leading the Bar features a special installment from the Council of Firsts series, which spotlights trailblazing leaders who were the “first” to break barriers in their bar associations.

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In this episode of the Council of Firsts, Amanda Arriaga, first Latina president of the Austin Bar, talks to Tekey Wallace, President-Elect of the Military Spouse JD Network (MSJDN) and a National Conference of Bar Presidents (NCBP) Diversity Scholar. This episode was recorded at the American Bar Association/National Conference of Bar Presidents meeting in Louisville, Kentucky. Did you know there are lawyers who are Military spouses who need support too? To get more information, sign up, or donate to MSJDN, visit MSJDN.org. To learn more about NOU, visit CONTACT US – NOU (shopluxep.com). To learn more about NCBP, visit https://ncbp.org/

At the NCBP’s Midyear Meeting in San Antonio, Amanda Arriaga sat down with conference speaker Michael Ariens, professor at St. Mary’s School of Law, for a deeper discussion on law, democracy, and ways to engage with the challenges we see in both the legal profession and our society at large. They discuss the relevance of the Declaration of Independence as we celebrate its 250th anniversary and wrestle with the concepts of liberty and equality in the present day. Professor Ariens emphasized the vital role of legal professionals in strengthening the rule of law and fostering constructive, civil discourse when tackling difficult community issues. In addition, Amanda and NCBP President Patrick Palace recap the NCBP Midyear Meeting held in San Antonio.

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NCBP Pledge - National Conference of Bar Presidents 

Six months into his presidency, Patrick Palace joins host Amanda Arriaga for a candid check-in on his leadership, priorities, and vision for the future. Patrick reflects on the path that led him to the practice of law and the values that continue to shape his work, especially his dedication to preserving the independence and integrity of the legal profession.

The conversation explores his efforts to create engaging, meaningful programs that make learning enjoyable for lawyers, as well as the mission behind the Leading the Bar podcast as a platform for thoughtful leadership. Patrick also discusses the Pledge to Preserve the Independence of the Legal Profession and the Judicial System and why this oath matters now more than ever.

Looking ahead, Patrick shares what’s next for the remainder of his term, including his hope to support regulators with resources and guidance, and preparing for the NCBP’s two upcoming conferences—the Midyear and Annual meetings.

Learn more:

This bonus episode of Leading the Bar features a special installment from the Council of Firsts series, which spotlights trailblazing leaders who were the “first” to break barriers in their bar associations.

In the next episode of the Council of Firsts, Amanda Arriaga, first Latina president of the Austin Bar, talks to Kathleen Wilkinson, past president of the Pennsylvania Bar Association and past chancellor of the Philadelphia Bar Association. She was also the first female president of the Villanova J. Willard O’Brien Inn of Court. This episode was recorded at the American Bar Association/National Conference of Bar Presidents meeting in Louisville, Kentucky.

You can find Kathleen in the Philadelphia office of Wilson Esler.

To learn more about NCBP, visit https://ncbp.org

YouTube https://youtu.be/wuKaCJ-N1EU

Leadership doesn’t always come naturally; it is a skill developed through service, mentorship, and a deep commitment to others. In this episode, Amanda Arriaga and Patrick Palace welcome Nate Alder, a longtime leader in multiple associations, including the NCBP. Drawing on his many years of service, Nate shares insights that deepen our understanding of how to lead with humility and a genuine commitment to stewarding and elevating the next generation of leaders in the legal profession.

Nate Alder is a shareholder at Christensen & Jensen, where he litigates, tries, and resolves complex civil cases.

This bonus episode of Leading the Bar features a special installment from the Council of Firsts series, which spotlights trailblazing leaders who were the “first” to break barriers in their bar associations.

In the next episode of the Council of Firsts, Amanda Arriaga, first Latina president of the Austin Bar, talks to Melissa Johnson, Past President of the San Diego Bar Association and Executive Council member of the National Conference of Bar Presidents (NCBP). This episode was recorded at the American Bar Association/ National Conference of Bar Presidents meeting in Louisville, Kentucky. To learn more about NCBP, visit https://ncbp.org

The National Council of Bar Presidents has had only 10 female presidents in its 75-year history, but women have become increasingly prominent in leadership in recent decades. In this episode, Amanda Arriaga speaks with three of the NCBP’s female presidents about their leadership experiences and their efforts to advance diversity within the profession. They underscore the importance of leaders cultivating strong relationships and acting as a source of encouragement and support for those who follow in their footsteps.