In this returning fan-favorite episode, Josh sits down with mediator Greg Parent for a wide-ranging conversation that blends law, life, and perspective in a way only Sports ‘N Torts can.
Greg pulls back the curtain on what really makes mediation work—not legal brilliance, but human connection, emotional intelligence, and preparation before anyone ever walks into the room. He shares why the best mediators act more like performers than negotiators, how “preconditioning” a case can make or break a mediation, and what lawyers get wrong about position statements.
But this episode goes far beyond the courtroom.
Greg opens up about his personal health transformation, losing over 60 pounds and challenging the stigma around weight-loss medication. He also reflects on fatherhood, the emotional weight of “final lasts” with kids heading off to college, and why being present as a parent matters more than anything in your career.
From courtside seats at Atlanta Hawks games to UNC vs. Georgia family rivalries, this episode is equal parts practical insight, humor, and real-life perspective.
If you’re a lawyer, parent, or just someone trying to do life a little better—this one hits home.
📝 Show Notes
🔹 Guest Introduction
Greg Parent returns to the podcast—award-winning mediator with Miles Mediation & Arbitration
Known across Atlanta’s legal community for his energy, authenticity, and results
UNC superfan, Hawks courtside regular, and self-proclaimed “people-first” mediator
⚖️ Mediation Masterclass: What Actually Works
Mediation is performance, not just negotiation
Greg compares mediators to rock stars and late-night hosts
The goal: make each client feel seen, heard, and understood immediately
You have 30 seconds to win trust
Especially with plaintiffs experiencing one of the worst days of their lives
Human connection > legal arguments
EQ over IQ
Lawyers already know the law
Mediators add value through perspective, communication, and emotional awareness
🔥 The “Preconditioning” Strategy (Game-Changer)
Borrowed from Greg’s Tesla analogy: prepare the “battery” before mediation
Key takeaway:
Talk to opposing counsel BEFORE mediation
Align expectations
Avoid “let’s just see where they’re at” mediations
Josh’s approach:
Inviting opposing counsel to lunch early in the case
Builds rapport → reduces friction → better outcomes
📄 What Makes a Great Mediation Statement?
What Greg actually wants:
Clear facts of the case
Unique issues or nuances
Client personality + challenges
Anything that impacts how he should approach the room
What he does NOT need:
20+ pages of legal exposition
Basic black-letter law
🧠 Inside the Mediator’s Mind
Greg can identify weaknesses instantly (“Achilles heel” analogy)
But the real skill is finding common ground, not exploiting weaknesses
Transparency builds trust—even when delivering tough messages
⚖️ Mediation vs. Arbitration
Mediation: facilitator (assistant coach)
Arbitration: decision-maker (judge)
In mediation, the lawyer always has final say—mediator guides, not decides
💪 Greg’s Health Transformation
Lost 60+ pounds (263 → ~201)
Uses Tirzepatide + disciplined lifestyle changes
Tracks nutrition, lifts weights, plays pickleball, stays active
Key mindset shift:
Addressing stigma around weight-loss medications
Comparing it to addiction recovery—both deserve support, not judgment
👔 Evolution of the Mediator Look
Transition from suit-and-tie to more approachable style
Goal: reduce intimidation, especially for plaintiffs
“Be Mr. Rogers, not Gordon Gekko”
🎓 Mentorship & Giving Back
Greg embraces role as mentor (“Luke Skywalker to Yoda transition”)
Helps younger lawyers avoid common mistakes
Focus on professionalism, relationships, and long-term reputation
👨👧👦 Parenting & “The Final Lasts”
One of the most powerful parts of the episode:
Greg’s son at UNC, daughter heading to Georgia
Emotional reflection on final games, final seasons, final moments
Key quote takeaway:
“You don’t have to go to practice—you GET to go to practice.”
Importance of being present
Coaching, photographing, supporting kids
Perspective shift that changed everything
🏀 Sports, Life & Fun
UNC fandom vs. new Georgia household dynamics
Hawks courtside experiences and networking
Why shared experiences (sports, school, family) build stronger connections
🎯 Key Takeaways
Mediation is a people business first
Preconditioning a case is critical
Relationships reduce friction and improve outcomes
Authenticity beats transactional behavior
Success in law doesn’t mean missing life at home
As always, this episode is powered by the J. Stein Law Firm - a personal injury law firm in Atlanta, GA - www.jsteinlawfirm.com.
