The Advocate Next Door®

In this episode we share some deleted clips from our first talks from Episodes 1 and 2; similarly, we share out interview with ChatGPT 4.0 which was intended for our Halloween episode, but we didn't feel it was ready for the interactive discussion we're used to with our guests.

HIGHLIGHTS:

00:00 Introduction and Season Recap

00:12 Deleted Clips: Brainstorming the Podcast

01:17 Deleted Clips: Podcast Name and Themes

01:39 Deleted Clips: Commercial Breaks and Sponsors

08:07 Deleted Clips: Networking Discussion

11:50 Deleted Clips: Negative Story

15:31 Deleted Clips: Attorney Burnout

18:23 Deleted Clips: Interviewing Chat GBT 4.0 Brainstorming

35:49 Final Thoughts and Future Plans

We interview Paulina Vera, a U.S. immigration attorney and professor at George Washington University. Paulina shares about her multicultural background with roots in Peru and England, her family history, and her journey into immigration law. Paulina shares personal anecdotes, including how her parents met and her experiences growing up visiting various family members. The conversation delves into the complexities of immigration law, the challenges faced by clients, and the emotional toll of handling such cases. Paulina also speaks about the importance of empathy and community for those working in immigration law. The discussion touches on her experiences working with immigrant populations from diverse backgrounds, the intricacies of immigration cases, and her role as a professor and supervisor at a law clinic. She also highlights the critical importance of legal representation in immigration proceedings and reflects on a significant case that reached the Supreme Court.

STORY:

0:00 Introduction & Guest Welcome

1:42 Paulina’s Background & Family Story

5:14 Journey into Immigration Law

8:46 Complexities of the Immigration System

21:13 Teaching & Clinical Work at George Washington University

32:11 Challenges & Rewards of Immigration Advocacy

44:06 Community Engagement & Volunteering

48:06 Personal Stories & Systemic Issues

54:10 Reflections & Closing Thoughts

BIOGRAPHY:

Paulina Vera is the Director of the Immigration Clinic at GW Law, where she trains law students and provides legal representation to asylum-seekers and individuals facing deportation in Immigration Court. A double alumna of George Washington University, she earned her J.D. in 2015 after completing her B.A. in International Affairs with a concentration in Latin American Studies. Before returning to GW as a faculty member, she served as the sole Immigration Staff Attorney at CASA, a Maryland-based nonprofit supporting immigrant communities.

Paulina is a Past President of the Hispanic Bar Association of DC and an active leader within the ABA and HNBA, where she has championed diversity, equity, and inclusion in the legal profession. She has been recognized nationally for her advocacy and leadership, including the HNBA Top Lawyers Under 40 Award (2021) and being named one of Latino Leaders Magazine’s “Latino Lawyers to Keep on the Watch” (2024).

In addition to her legal work, Paulina manages Hermanas In The Law, an online community uplifting Latinas in all stages of the legal journey. Originally from Tucson, Arizona, she is the proud daughter of two immigrants and is deeply committed to advancing immigrant rights and representation in the law.

LINKS:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulina-vera-00a89439/

Ayana Johnson from Johnson Legal discusses her background, inspired by her family's legal profession and her initial interest in criminal justice reform. She shares her journey from growing up in Delaware to attending Howard University for law school. Ayana describes her career transition from being an Assistant District Attorney in Brooklyn to focusing on estate planning and elder law. She highlights the importance of estate planning in building generational wealth, especially in underserved communities. Ayana also explains various aspects of estate planning, the emotional challenges involved, and how she helps clients prevent family disputes over inheritances. Additionally, the conversation covers the nuances of probate court, the role of attorneys in estate planning, and Ayana's personal interests outside of her profession.

STORY:

00:00 — Welcome

03:57 — Growing Up in Delaware

06:35 — Law School Journey

13:11 — Meeting Her Husband

19:08 — Transition to Estate Planning

27:47 — Exploring Racism in Legal History

29:28 — Switching Career Paths: From Criminal Law to Estate Planning

31:17 — Challenges and Realizations in Family Law

33:00 — Starting a Private Practice: The Journey and Challenges

36:45 — The Emotional Impact of Estate Planning

38:08 — Balancing Personal Life and Professional Responsibilities

44:19 — The Complexities of Estate Planning and Legal Documents

51:17 — Pet Trusts and Unusual Estate Planning Cases

54:45 — Concluding Thoughts

BIOGRAPHY:

Ayana Johnson spent the first few years of her career as an Assistant District Attorney in Brooklyn, New York, where she prosecuted and indicted hundreds of cases. She later moved on to an estate planning law firm in Maryland, where she had the privilege of learning about asset and family protection through the use of estate planning documents. Further, Attorney Johnson has interned at the United States House of Representatives, at the Superior Court for the District of Columbia, for the Office of the Federal Public Defender for the District of Delaware, and for the Delaware Department of Justice.

LINKS

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ayana-johnson-esq-173b22126/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/johnsonlegalpllc

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Johnson-Legal/61555284787382/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@johnson.legal

Website: ⁠https://johnson-legal.co⁠

We sit down with Staci Gellman, an International Arbitration Specialist at Crowell & Moring LLP, to explore her fascinating career journey from aspiring bankruptcy lawyer to international arbitration expert. Staci shares the unique challenges and opportunities in arbitration, the critical role paralegals play in large case teams, and the intricate logistics of organizing international hearings. With insightful advice for aspiring legal professionals, she highlights the importance of teamwork, adaptability, and practical learning in navigating complex cases and building a successful career.

STORY:

00:00 Introduction

02:41 Early Career and Law School Experience

05:50 Transition to International Arbitration

13:02 Managing Complex International Cases

24:14 Logistics of International Hearings

33:45 The Paralegal's Essential Role

40:24 Managing Stress and Work-Life Balance

41:58 Advice for New Legal Professionals

BIOGRAPHY:

Staci Gellman is an International Arbitration Specialist at Crowell & Moring LLP, where she has been a cornerstone of the firm’s arbitration practice for the past 18 years. She began her career in pharmaceutical patent litigation before finding her passion in international arbitration, where she now manages complex, high-stakes cases around the globe. Known for her precision, logistical expertise, and ability to anticipate the needs of legal teams during international hearings, Staci has become an invaluable resource in the field. Beyond her casework, she is deeply committed to mentoring junior attorneys and paralegals, fostering a culture of collaboration, adaptability, and continuous learning.

LINKS:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/staci-gellman-7b876574/

Anna D. Aviles-Alfaro discusses her career journey which started as a mom right out of high school finding herself working as a legal secretary for a world-renowned international arbitration arbitrator. The support of those around her encouraged her to get her college degree and pursue a rewarding career as a paralegal first starting at the World Bank's ICSID institution and later in the private sector. Anna also shares her tips on work-life balance and how legal teams can work best with each other.

*Anna was working at Dechert LLP at the time of this recording.

HIGHLIGHTS:

00:30 Introduction and Background

01:50 Early Career at Pan Am

03:59 Starting as a Legal Secretary

05:23 Transition to Larger Law Firms

07:44 Back to a Path towards Higher Education

10:11 Balancing Work and Education

21:55 Working at ICSID at The World Bank

31:16 Career Advice for Aspiring Legal Professionals

36:28 Managing Stress and Work-Life Balance

40:58 Advice for New Paralegals

BIOGRAPHY:

Anna D. Aviles-Alfaro, Lead Arbitration Paralegal at Womble Bond Dickinson (US) LLP

Anna started as a legal secretary and found herself into the world of International Arbitration. She later transitioned as a paralegal at the World Bank's International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID) which is an institution for International Investment Arbitration Disputes. After a few years, she transitioned to the private sector where she is currently a leader in the paralegal sector for international disputes.

LINKS:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annaavilesalfaro/

Craig Gaver shares insights into his work in international arbitration, judgment enforcement, and sovereign immunity. Craig reflects on his career journey, from political science to international law, including his inspiring role in a wrongful conviction case featured in Netflix’s The Innocence Files. The discussion also highlights career advice for aspiring lawyers and the importance of balance and self-care in the demanding legal field.

*Craig was Counsel at Bluestone, P.C. at the time of this recording.

STORY:

00:30 Introduction to Enforcement of Judgments

03:17 Methods of Enforcement

05:04 Professional Background

07:13 Pro Bono Death Row Case

09:17 Musical Background

13:20 Career in International Arbitration

25:12 Work-Life Balance and Outdoor Activities

30:23 Hiking in Washington, DC

33:06 Career Advice for Aspiring Lawyers

37:49 Future of International Law Practice

BIOGRAPHY:

Craig D. Gaver is a Partner at Continental PLLC. His practice focuses on legal problems that cross international boundaries. He brings to Continental over a decade of experience representing and advising sovereign states and foreign agencies, Fortune 500 companies, investment firms, and high net worth individuals in the oil and gas, renewable energy, mining, infrastructure, transportation, financial, and technology sectors on their most challenging commercial, civil, and regulatory matters.

His multifaceted practice encompasses complex litigation and arbitration before U.S. courts and international tribunals, enforcement of foreign arbitral awards, foreign investment protection under bilateral and multilateral treaties, economic sanctions and international trade, sovereign immunity, sovereign debt recovery, and public international law.

Craig’s recent experience includes obtaining a favorable verdict for Walmart in a federal jury trial, advising a Fortune 500 company on billion-dollar investment treaty claims against two foreign states, advising foreign central banks and sovereign wealth funds on sovereign immunity and asset protection, and successfully defending a European multinational company against M&A claims in an expedited ICC arbitration. He has practiced under all the major international arbitration institutions’ rules.

He writes and speaks widely on issues arising under public and private international law. Craig serves as an adjunct professor at William & Mary Law School, and his publications have appeared in several edited books, the American Journal of International Law, and elsewhere. He is an active participant in the Washington, D.C. and international legal communities and holds leadership roles within the American Society of International Law, the D.C. Bar, and the Washington Foreign Law Society.

Craig is licensed to practice in Washington, D.C., New York, Maryland, and England and Wales. Prior to joining Continental, he practiced in the Washington, D.C., Qatar, and Singapore offices of international law firms and an asset recovery boutique.

LINKS:

Website: https://continentalpllc.com/our-team/craig-d-gaver/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craig-gaver-96005b191/

Christine Falcicchio is an attorney, entrepreneur, and global co-chair of the Campaign for Greener Arbitrations. Christine shares her inspiring journey, from reconnecting with her Italian roots to leading an international initiative aimed at reducing the carbon footprint of arbitration practices. We dive into her advocacy for paperless and eco-friendly methods, the evolution of sustainability in the legal profession, and how her company, Sopra Legal, is revolutionizing legal submissions with interactive hyperlinking. Christine also highlights the importance of personal and professional sustainability, urging the global legal community to take the pledge for greener arbitrations.

***Special Guest Host: Christina Poehlitz, Global Policy Advisor at Arnold & Porter

STORY:

00:35 Introduction

01:14 Current Role at Arnold & Porter

02:13 Growing Up as a Diplomat's Daughter

02:54 Journey to Washington DC and Capitol Hill

05:11 Transition into Lobbying Career

07:01 Post-College Career Exploration

22:04 Modern Lobbying and Advocacy Work

30:03 AI's Role in Lobbying

31:35 Work-Life Balance and DC Life

36:39 Closing Thoughts

BIOGRAPHY:

Christine Falcicchio is an attorney, entrepreneur, and sustainability advocate dedicated to transforming legal practice through technology and environmental responsibility. As the founder of Sopra Legal, she specializes in creating hyperlinked interactive eBriefs that modernize legal submissions. Christine is also a leader in the Campaign for Greener Arbitrations, combining her passion for innovation with her commitment to promoting sustainability in the legal field.

LINKS:

Website: https://sopralegal.com/about-us/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christine-falcicchio/

Pledge to sign the Campaign for Greener Arbitrations: https://www.greenerarbitrations.com/sign-green-pledge

Christina Poehlitz, an international policy advisor at Arnold & Porter Kaye Scholar LLP, helps us demystify the world of lobbying. Christina redefines lobbying as advocacy at its core—helping individuals and organizations navigate the intricate political and policy landscape of Washington, D.C. She highlights the critical role of amplifying constituents’ voices and strategically communicating their priorities to policymakers. Christina also shares practical insights into the timing of advocacy efforts, the workings of the congressional calendar, and how to make meetings impactful. This conversation is an eye-opening guide to understanding the importance of advocacy in shaping meaningful policy change.

STORY:

0:00 Introduction

1:14 Role in Big Law

2:13 Growing Up as a Diplomat's Daughter

2:54 Journey to Washington DC and Capitol Hill

5:11 Transition into Lobbying Career

7:01 Post-College Career Exploration

22:04 Modern Lobbying and Advocacy Work

30:03 AI's Role in Lobbying

31:35 Work-Life Balance and DC Life

36:39 Closing Thoughts

BIOGRAPHY:

Christina Poehlitz specializes in providing strategic advice and guidance to foreign governments and multinational corporations, including in Latin America, the Caribbean, Europe, Southwestern Asia, Central Asia, and the Pacific Islands. Her expertise helps clients navigate complex policies in matters related to national security, defense, and trade and investment. Christina helps her sovereign and private sector clients understand the evolving global and federal legislative landscape by keeping them apprised of relevant policy and regulatory developments and helps her clients implement comprehensive advocacy campaigns within the Legislative and Executive branches.

Christina helps raise her client’s profile on Capitol Hill and guides them through the federal funding and annual authorization processes by identifying funding and policy opportunities, and developing effective strategies to promote her client’s priorities. She received a B.A. in International Studies with a concentration on U.S. Foreign Policy and National Security from American University. She has native fluency in English and Spanish.

LINKS:

Website: https://www.arnoldporter.com/en/people/p/poehlitz-christina

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christina-poehlitz-a3380b157/

Serena Rwejuna, a partner at White & Case and a distinguished expert in energy law, shares her compelling journey, from her upbringing in North Carolina to her studies in psychology and business, to her eventual pivot to law. She delves into her multifaceted career, discussing her experiences in business school, navigating law school challenges at Duke University, and her work in higher education. Serena offers unique insights into the complexities of energy law, the global impact of energy regulations, and the crucial role of mentorship and community support. Tune in as she explores the significance of the energy transition, regulatory bodies like FERC, and the abundant opportunities awaiting the next generation in this evolving sector—all while exemplifying approachable and authentic leadership.

STORY:

0:00 Introduction

0:57 Background and Early Life

1:48 Growing Up in North Carolina

3:36 Education Journey: Psychology, Business, and Law

9:13 Discovering Energy Law

11:18 The Importance of Energy Law & Education

14:14 Being a Partner at White & Case: Mentorship and Approachability

16:27 The Value of Mentorship

16:27 What is Energy Law? (FERC, NERC, and the Regulatory Landscape)

23:30 How Companies Choose Energy Sources

25:56 Clients and Career Opportunities in Energy Law

29:05 Getting Into the Energy Industry: Resources and Associations

32:05 Global Energy Law & Regulatory Differences

34:05 Enforcement, Compliance, and White Collar Issues

38:36 Work-Life Balance, Stress, and Self-Care

41:02 Teaching, Mentoring, and Imposter Syndrome

43:11 Closing Thoughts & Optimism for the Future

BIOGRAPHY:

Serena A. Rwejuna is Head of White & Case LLP's Energy Markets and Regulatory Practice. Serena also serves as Co-Deputy Head for the North American Region of the White & Case Global Power Industry Group and Co-Head for the White & Case Global Green Policy, Regulation and Incentives Strategic Specialty Area. As an entrepreneurial and commercially-minded advisor who is formally trained in psychology, management, and public policy, Serena has developed a dynamic, multidisciplinary practice focused on innovation, value creation and problem solving in highly-regulated, fast-paced industries. Serena specializes in energy law and her practice focuses on advising clients on commercial, regulatory, compliance, litigation, and enforcement matters. She has experience with a variety of clean energy technologies, including solar, onshore and offshore wind, hydroelectricity, waste-to-energy, and other advanced and evolving energy technologies. Serena counsels developers, sponsors, utilities, independent power producers, pipelines, natural gas distribution companies, technology companies, financial institutions and other traditional and emerging energy industry participants on compliance with Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) regulations, cross-border and multijurisdictional transactions and regulatory matters, and advises them on project development, drafting and negotiating complex and bespoke commercial agreements, mergers and acquisitions, dispute resolution, and state regulatory compliance.

LINKS:

Website: https://www.whitecase.com/people/serena-rwejuna

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/serena-agaba-rwejuna/

Gitanjali Sakhuja, Associate General Counsel at AmeriCares, shares her dynamic journey from California to living in multiple countries to Washington, D.C., exploring a diverse legal career path. Gitanjali offers valuable perspectives on the differences between in-house counsel and traditional legal roles, focusing on the critical aspects of compliance and sustainability within a global framework.

She discusses the importance of collaboration, creativity, and lifelong learning in legal practice, and opens up about her mentoring initiatives and strategies for building strong professional networks. The conversation also touches on balancing a fulfilling career with personal passions—highlighted by Gitanjali’s love for Bollywood dancing and exercise—and her dedication to aligning her work objectives with helping others achieve their goals, all while maintaining compliance with legal standards.

HIGHLIGHTS:

00:28 Introduction and Background

03:23 Path to Legal Career and Advocacy

05:41 Understanding Compliance and Sustainability

14:01 Leadership and Career Development

25:17 Working as In-House Counsel

33:20 Bollywood Dancing and Work-Life Balance

37:54 Building Team Culture and Connection

43:06 Diversity in Compliance and Closing Thoughts

BIOGRAPHY:

Gitanjali Sakhuja is an accomplished in-house legal counsel and certified Ethics & Compliance leader with a global perspective, known for turning complex challenges into actionable solutions. With expertise spanning governance, risk management, global compliance, and strategic legal direction, she brings a collaborative, creative approach to fostering growth and mindful leadership within international and corporate entities. Outside of work, Gitanjali is passionate about mentoring, teaching Bollywood and Bhangra dance, and supporting community initiatives.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gitanjalisakhuja/

LINKS:

Americares: https://www.americares.org/

Streetwise Partners: https://www.streetwisepartners.org

Legal Mentor Network: https://www.legalmentornetwork.org

Eyesea: https://eyesea.org