MCLE ThisWeek Podcast

By Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education (MCLE │ New England)

MCLE ThisWeek is newly revamped for 2025, delivering fresh legal insights when you need them most. Each episode spotlights timely topics, practical strategies, and leading experts to keep your practic... more

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FAQs about MCLE ThisWeek Podcast:

How many episodes does MCLE ThisWeek Podcast have?

The podcast currently has 283 episodes available.

MCLE ThisWeek Podcast episodes:

November 13, 2025MCLE ThisWeek | S2 E10: Borders, Rights, and the Rule of Law: What Every Lawyer Needs to Know About ICE with Robin Nice
In this episode:
Host Bruce Richard sits down with immigration attorney Robin Nice for an in-depth discussion about the legal and human realities of ICE enforcement in the United States. With over a decade of experience representing asylum seekers and families facing deportation, Robin explains how attorneys can better understand clients’ rights and the rapidly changing landscape of immigration policy.
With expertise and passion, Robin unpacks:
What ICE actually is — and how its authority differs from local police
Common misconceptions about warrants, detentions, and client rights
How enforcement priorities have changed under different administrations
What to do when a client is detained — from filing bond motions to habeas petitions
Due process breakdowns inside the immigration system
How federal district courts can serve as a safeguard against overreach
The human cost of a system that leaves families in fear, uncertainty, and legal limbo
Robin also discusses the urgent need for legal reform, the impact of current policies on asylum seekers, and the moral and constitutional questions every lawyer should be asking about immigration enforcement today.
Featured Guest:
Robin Nice, Esq. — Partner at McHaffey & Nice, a Boston-based firm focused exclusively on immigration law, specializing in asylum and humanitarian relief. Robin brings 13 years of experience advocating for individuals and families navigating the U.S. immigration system.
Links and Resources:
MCLE Online Pass
McHaffey & Nice
Important Note:
Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc. (MCLE) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to providing high-quality, practical continuing legal education for the legal community. As part of its educational mission, MCLE presents a wide range of viewpoints and instructional content intended solely for educational purposes.
The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by individual participants in this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of MCLE, its Board of Trustees, staff, or affiliated institutions. Inclusion of any material or commentary does not constitute an endorsement of any position on any issue by MCLE.
Connect with us on social!
Instagram: mcle.newengland
LinkedIn: Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc. (MCLE│New England)
X (Formerly Twitter): MCLENewEngland
Bluesky: mclenewengland.bsky.social
Facebook: MCLE New England
...more
24min
October 16, 2025MCLE ThisWeek | S2 E9: Likes, Followers, Clients: Growing Your Law Practice on Social Media with Tyler Summers
In this episode:
Host Bruce Richard interviews Tyler Summers, a Massachusetts family law attorney who has grown a strong social media following by producing engaging, informative, and often humorous content about divorce, prenups, and family law. Tyler offers practical advice for attorneys who are curious about using social media to expand their reach without compromising professionalism.
With openness, humor, and hard-earned experience, Tyler shares his thoughts on:
Finding balance between professionalism and relatability on platforms like Instagram and TikTok
The biggest misconceptions about social media marketing for lawyers — including the myth that followers instantly translate to clients
Handling viral content responsibly, including lessons learned from controversial posts
Producing high-quality, consistent content that reflects your brand and values
Time management and team support — how outsourcing editing and production helped him stay focused on client work
Doing due diligence before hiring a social media marketing company
The long game of growth — how patience and persistence lead to genuine engagement and opportunities

Tyler’s insights offer attorneys practical takeaways for developing an authentic online presence that supports, rather than distracts their legal careers.
Featured Guest:
Tyler Summers, Esq. — Founder of Summers Family Law, based in Needham with a satellite office in Boston’s Back Bay. Tyler focuses exclusively on family law, including divorce and prenuptial agreements, and has built a following of over 50,000 on Instagram by blending humor, insight, and education in his legal content.
Links and Resources:
MCLE Online Pass
Tyler' Instagram
Important Note:
Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc. (MCLE) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to providing high-quality, practical continuing legal education for the legal community. As part of its educational mission, MCLE presents a wide range of viewpoints and instructional content intended solely for educational purposes.
The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by individual participants in this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of MCLE, its Board of Trustees, staff, or affiliated institutions. Inclusion of any material or commentary does not constitute an endorsement of any position on any issue by MCLE.
For questions or sponsorship inquiries, email [email protected]
Connect with us on social!
Instagram: mcle.newengland
LinkedIn: Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc. (MCLE│New England)
X (Formerly Twitter): MCLENewEngland
Bluesky: mclenewengland.bsky.social
Facebook: MCLE New England
...more
18min
September 18, 2025MCLE ThisWeek | S2 E8: Top 5 from the Bench: A Conversation with Judges Beverly Cannone and Catherine Ham
In this episode:
Host Bruce Richard sits down with Superior Court Judges Beverly Cannone and Catherine Ham for an engaging and positive discussion about trial practice from the judges’ perspective. Rather than focusing on common pitfalls, they highlight the five things attorneys do in the courtroom that they truly value.

With humor, candor, and decades of combined courtroom experience, Judges Cannone and Ham offer practical advice on:
Why emotional intelligence and civility matter as much as legal knowledge
The importance of honesty, candor, and building a reputation for integrity
How preparation — especially for younger lawyers — sets the foundation for success
The role of professionalism and formality in establishing credibility in court
Respecting jurors’ time and maintaining focus on the client’s case

This conversation provides attorneys with concrete, real-world guidance to strengthen advocacy, build trust with judges, and enhance courtroom effectiveness.

Featured Guests:
Judge Beverly Cannone, Associate Justice of the Massachusetts Superior Court, longtime public defender, and veteran trial advocacy teacher at Harvard Law School and MCLE.
Judge Catherine Ham, Associate Justice of the Superior Court and former Assistant District Attorney in Suffolk County’s Homicide Unit, with years of trial experience in criminal and civil law.

Links and Resources:
MCLE Online Pass

Important Note:
Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc. (MCLE) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to providing high-quality, practical continuing legal education for the legal community. As part of its educational mission, MCLE presents a wide range of viewpoints and instructional content intended solely for educational purposes.
The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by individual participants in this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of MCLE, its Board of Trustees, staff, or affiliated institutions. Inclusion of any material or commentary does not constitute an endorsement of any position on any issue by MCLE.
For questions or sponsorship inquiries, email [email protected]
Connect with us on social!
Instagram: mcle.newengland
LinkedIn: Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc. (MCLE│New England)
X (Formerly Twitter): MCLENewEngland
Bluesky: mclenewengland.bsky.social
Facebook: MCLE New England
...more
32min
July 17, 2025MCLE ThisWeek | S2 E7: MassHealth Myths: Separating Fact from Fiction with Brian E. Barreira
In this Episode:
Host Bruce Richard sits down with elder law attorney and MCLE author Brian E. Barreira to separate fact from fiction in long-term care and MassHealth planning. In a wide-ranging discussion packed with practical insights, Brian highlights three critical issues that all legal practitioners, and their clients should better understand:
Why going on MassHealth doesn’t mean receiving inferior nursing home care
The surprising benefits of probate for married couples and how it can protect assets
When putting a house or assets into a trust helps—and when it can actually hurt
With clarity and candor, Brian challenges conventional estate planning advice and explains why thoughtful, individualized strategies are essential when planning for long-term care costs in Massachusetts.
Featured Guest:
Brian E. Barreira is a nationally respected elder law and estate planning attorney based in Plymouth, Massachusetts. With decades of experience, he has authored numerous articles and leads MCLE’s flagship publication Elder and Disability Law in Massachusetts, where he also serves as chief editor. Brian’s thoughtful, nuanced approach helps clients and practitioners alike navigate the often confusing intersection of healthcare planning, tax consequences, and legal safeguards.
Links and Resources:
MCLE Online Pass
Elder and Disability Law in Massachusetts (MCLE Publication)
Brian E. Barreira, Attorney at Law – Official Website
Important Note:
Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc. (MCLE) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to providing high-quality, practical continuing legal education for the legal community. As part of its educational mission, MCLE presents a wide range of viewpoints and instructional content intended solely for educational purposes.
The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by individual participants in this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of MCLE, its Board of Trustees, staff, or affiliated institutions. Inclusion of any material or commentary does not constitute an endorsement of any position on any issue by MCLE.
For questions or sponsorship inquiries, email [email protected].
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Connect with us on social!
Instagram: mcle.newengland
LinkedIn: Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc. (MCLE│New England)
X (Formerly Twitter): MCLENewEngland
Bluesky: mclenewengland.bsky.social
Facebook: MCLE New England
...more
25min
June 19, 2025MCLE ThisWeek | S2 E6: When 50/50 Doesn’t Cut It: Equity v. Equality in Divorce with Jonathan Fields
In This Episode:
Host Bruce Richard sits down with seasoned family law attorney Jonathan P. Fields to explore how the concept of fairness in divorce often requires more than a 50/50 split. Together, they discuss:
When and why “equal” doesn’t always mean “fair” in asset division
The impact of trusts, inheritances, and premarital assets
Conduct-based arguments in high-conflict divorces
Creative strategies for navigating inequitable circumstances
The evolving influence of the Alimony Reform Act on property division

Featured Guest:
Jonathan P. Fields is a founding partner of Fields & Dennis LLP in Wellesley, Massachusetts, where he focuses on complex family law matters including divorce, asset division, and alimony. A recognized voice in the field, Jonathan frequently presents at MCLE and other legal education forums, offering practical guidance on equitable distribution, financial strategies in divorce, and ethical advocacy.
With more than 30 years of experience and a passion for exploring the human side of legal conflict, Jonathan brings both analytical rigor and thoughtful perspective to this often-contentious area of practice.

Links and Resources:
MCLE Online Pass
Fields & Dennis LLP – Official Website
Identifying & Proving When 50/50 Isn't Fair
M.G.L. Chapter 208, Section 34 – Division of Property
Alimony Reform Act of 2011

Important Note:
Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc. (MCLE) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to providing high-quality, practical continuing legal education for the legal community. As part of its educational mission, MCLE presents a wide range of viewpoints and instructional content intended solely for educational purposes.
The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by individual participants in this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of MCLE, its Board of Trustees, staff, or affiliated institutions. Inclusion of any material or commentary does not constitute an endorsement of any position on any issue by MCLE.
For questions or sponsorship inquiries, email [email protected].
Connect with us on social!
Instagram: mcle.newengland
LinkedIn: Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc. (MCLE│New England)
X (Formerly Twitter): MCLENewEngland
Bluesky: mclenewengland.bsky.social
Facebook: MCLE New England
...more
25min
May 15, 2025MCLE ThisWeek | S2 E5: Borders, Rights, and the Rule of Law: Immigration Basics Every Lawyer Needs to Know with Rachel M. Self
In This Episode:
Host Bruce Richard sits down with renowned attorney Rachel M. Self to explore the fast-evolving landscape of immigration law in the United States and what every lawyer should know to be a better advocate for non-citizen clients. Together, they discuss:
Navigating emergency ICE detention and court wins
Responding to the Martha’s Vineyard migrant flights
Understanding immigration status categories every lawyer should know
Featured Guest:
Rachel M. Self is a nationally recognized immigration and criminal defense attorney practicing in Boston. As the founder of Rachel M. Self, P.C., she focuses on complex deportation defense, post-conviction relief, and crimmigration matters. Fluent in Spanish, Rachel has appeared as a legal analyst on CNN and Fox News and was instrumental in mobilizing legal support for the 49 migrants flown to Martha’s Vineyard in 2022.
Her advocacy in that case earned her national recognition, including Honorable Mention as a Bostonian of the Year by The Boston Globe Magazine. Rachel is also a frequent speaker for MCLE, AILA, and judicial education programs across the country.
Links and Resources:
MCLE Online Pass
Rachel M. Self P.C. - Boston
National Immigration Alliance
Important Note:
Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc. (MCLE) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to providing high-quality, practical continuing legal education for the legal community. As part of its educational mission, MCLE presents a wide range of viewpoints and instructional content intended solely for educational purposes.
The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by individual participants in this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of MCLE, its Board of Trustees, staff, or affiliated institutions. Inclusion of any material or commentary does not constitute an endorsement of any position on any issue by MCLE.
For questions or sponsorship inquiries, email [email protected].
Connect with us on social!
Instagram: mcle.newengland
LinkedIn: Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc. (MCLE│New England)
X (Formerly Twitter): MCLENewEngland
Bluesky: mclenewengland.bsky.social
Facebook: MCLE New England
...more
25min
April 17, 2025MCLE ThisWeek | S2 E4: New Lawyer Diaries: Insights and Lessons Learned with Hope Simas
In This Episode:
Host Bruce sits down with family law attorney Hope Simas from Kates & Barlow to discuss:
What it was like handling her first deposition and contested hearing
How new lawyers can navigate different partner expectations
The reality of courtroom nerves, client reactions, and finding confidence
Her experience as ARC (Attorneys Representing Children) counsel
Favorite de-stressing methods—plus a deep dive into cooking ceviche
Featured Guest:
Hope Simas
Family Law Attorney, Kates & Barlow - Boston
ARC Appointed Counsel (Suffolk County)
Don’t Miss:
Tips for building early-career confidence in law
What it’s really like to represent a child in family court
Hope’s reflections on rewarding custody cases and how she resets after tough days
Links and Resources:
MCLE Online Pass
Important Note:
Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc. (MCLE) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to providing high-quality, practical continuing legal education for the legal community. As part of its educational mission, MCLE presents a wide range of viewpoints and instructional content intended solely for educational purposes.
The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by individual participants in this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of MCLE, its Board of Trustees, staff, or affiliated institutions. Inclusion of any material or commentary does not constitute an endorsement of any position on any issue by MCLE.
For questions or sponsorship inquiries, email [email protected].
Connect with us on social!
Instagram: mcle.newengland
LinkedIn: Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc. (MCLE│New England)
X (Formerly Twitter): MCLENewEngland
Bluesky: mclenewengland.bsky.social
Facebook: MCLE New England
...more
20min
March 20, 2025MCLE ThisWeek | S2 E3: AI for Skeptical Lawyers with Brendan McSheffrey
In This Episode:
Host Bruce Richard sits down with Brendan McSheffrey to explore:
The Kendall AI Project’s mission to make AI accessible and actionable for businesses and legal professionals.
Practical tips for attorneys on getting started with AI tools like ChatGPT and others.
Brendan’s five foundational rules for AI excellence, including problem-driven innovation and the importance of team collaboration.
Insights on training AI models to reflect personal and organizational preferences.
Featured Guest:
Brendan McSheffrey
Entrepreneur and AI advocate
Co-founder of the Kendall AI Project
Don’t Miss:
Brendan’s strategies for integrating AI into solo and small firm practices.
How to create a custom AI model for unique professional and personal needs.
A candid discussion on the challenges and future of AI in the legal industry.
Links and Resources:
Kendall AI Project - Boston
MCLE Online Pass
AI Tools Mentioned: ChatGPT, Anthropic, Perplexity
Important Note:
Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc. (MCLE) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to providing high-quality, practical continuing legal education for the legal community. As part of its educational mission, MCLE presents a wide range of viewpoints and instructional content intended solely for educational purposes.
The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by individual participants in this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of MCLE, its Board of Trustees, staff, or affiliated institutions. Inclusion of any material or commentary does not constitute an endorsement of any position on any issue by MCLE.
For questions or sponsorship inquiries, email [email protected].
Connect with us on social!
Instagram: mcle.newengland
LinkedIn: Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc. (MCLE│New England)
X (Formerly Twitter): MCLENewEngland
Bluesky: mclenewengland.bsky.social
Facebook: MCLE New England
...more
32min
February 20, 2025MCLE ThisWeek | S2 E2: New Lawyer Diaries: Law School to Real Life with Shira Diner
In This Episode:
Host Bruce Richard sits down with Shira Diner to explore:
How BU Law’s Defender Clinic gives students hands-on experience with real clients
The biggest challenges and misconceptions law students have about public defense
Strategies for developing confidence and resilience in the courtroom
The importance of mentorship, networking, and work-life balance in the legal field
Featured Guest:
Shira Diner
Lecturer & Clinical Instructor, BU Law Defender Clinic
Former Director of Associate Development & Recruitment, Todd & Weld LLP
Former public defender with CPCS for 17 years, including as a supervising attorney in the Criminal Defense Training Unit
President of the Massachusetts Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
Former adjunct clinical professor at Suffolk Law, where she created and ran the Innocence Clinic
Appointed by Governor Charlie Baker to the Massachusetts Sentencing Commission
Don’t Miss:
Shira’s advice for law students and new lawyers navigating their first cases
How mock trials and experiential learning build better attorneys
Why Legally Blonde holds a key lesson for cross-examinations
Links and Resources:
MCLE Online Pass
BU Law Defender Clinic - Boston
Massachusetts Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
Important Note:
Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc. (MCLE) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to providing high-quality, practical continuing legal education for the legal community. As part of its educational mission, MCLE presents a wide range of viewpoints and instructional content intended solely for educational purposes.
The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by individual participants in this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of MCLE, its Board of Trustees, staff, or affiliated institutions. Inclusion of any material or commentary does not constitute an endorsement of any position on any issue by MCLE.
For questions or sponsorship inquiries, email [email protected].
Connect with us on social!
Instagram: mcle.newengland
LinkedIn: Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc. (MCLE│New England)
X (Formerly Twitter): MCLENewEngland
Bluesky: mclenewengland.bsky.social
Facebook: MCLE New England
...more
26min
January 23, 2025MCLE ThisWeek | S2 E1: Top Tips for Solos and Small Firms with Jared Correia
In This Episode:
Host Bruce sits down with legal consultant Jared Correia to discuss:
How he transitioned from practicing law to running Red Cave Law Firm Consulting.
Simple strategies to help solo and small law firms thrive, including tips on data management, marketing, and scaling.
Why your online presence matters more than ever—and how to fix it.
Jared’s entertaining personal stories, including lessons from his early career and his love of Rolos.
Featured Guest:
Jared Correia
CEO, Red Cave Law Firm Consulting
Host of The Legal Toolkit Podcast and Non-Eventcast
Don’t Miss:
Jared’s tips for evaluating your law firm’s marketing and online presence.
His lighthearted take on candy preferences and career missteps.
Links and Resources:
The Legal Toolkit Podcast
Non-Eventcast
Red Cave Law Firm Consulting - Boston
MCLE Online Pass
Important Note:
Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc. (MCLE) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to providing high-quality, practical continuing legal education for the legal community. As part of its educational mission, MCLE presents a wide range of viewpoints and instructional content intended solely for educational purposes.
The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by individual participants in this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of MCLE, its Board of Trustees, staff, or affiliated institutions. Inclusion of any material or commentary does not constitute an endorsement of any position on any issue by MCLE.
For questions or sponsorship inquiries, email [email protected].
Connect with us on social!
Instagram: mcle.newengland
LinkedIn: Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc. (MCLE│New England)
X (Formerly Twitter): MCLENewEngland
Bluesky: mclenewengland.bsky.social
Facebook: MCLE New England
...more
23min

FAQs about MCLE ThisWeek Podcast:

How many episodes does MCLE ThisWeek Podcast have?

The podcast currently has 283 episodes available.

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MCLE ThisWeek Podcast

FAQs about MCLE ThisWeek Podcast:

How many episodes does MCLE ThisWeek Podcast have?

MCLE ThisWeek Podcast episodes:

FAQs about MCLE ThisWeek Podcast:

How many episodes does MCLE ThisWeek Podcast have?

More shows like MCLE ThisWeek Podcast

Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me!

The New Yorker: Fiction

Amicus With Dahlia Lithwick | Law, justice, and the courts