The podcast episode features a discussion between Ken Hesser and Gabriela Sifontes, focusing on professional development and the OJCC Scholars Program. The conversation covers the kickoff of season two, the intensive trial advocacy class, the OJCC Scholars Program 2025, the curriculum and experience of the program, professional responsibility, stress management, the conclusion of the program, and encouraging younger practitioners in workers' compensation.

Takeaways

• Continuous learning in the legal field
• Professional development through mentorship

Chapters

• 00:00 Season Two Kickoff and Podcast Plans
• 06:16 The OJCC Scholars Program 2025
• 13:04 The Curriculum and Experience of the OJCC Scholars Program
• 18:40 Conclusion of the OJCC Scholars Program and Networking Events

This episode of the Florida Bar Workers' Compensation Section podcast features a discussion on the importance of mentorship in the legal field, particularly in workers' compensation law. Host Ken Hesser speaks with experienced attorneys Paul Anderson and Keir Edwards about their personal journeys into the practice, the dynamics of their mentor-mentee relationship, and the evolving landscape of workers' compensation law. They emphasize the significance of integrity, trust, and building relationships in a changing legal environment, while also reflecting on the challenges and rewards of practicing in a close-knit community.

Takeaways

Mentorship is crucial for professional development in law.

Personal journeys into law often involve unexpected paths.

Integrity and trust are foundational in legal practice.

Workers' compensation law is a small, close-knit community.

Final hearings in workers' comp are not the end of the process.

Building relationships is essential for success in law.

The legal landscape is evolving with technology and communication.

Understanding clients' backgrounds enhances legal effectiveness.

Networking opportunities have changed post-COVID.

Mentorship can provide invaluable guidance and support.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Mentorship in Workers' Compensation

02:51 Personal Journeys into Workers' Compensation Law

05:46 The Mentor-Mentee Relationship

08:42 Navigating the Workers' Compensation Landscape

11:57 Integrity and Trust in Legal Practice

14:46 The Evolution of Workers' Compensation Practice

17:44 Building Relationships in a Changing Environment

20:32 Future of Mentorship and Collaboration

In this episode of the Florida Bar Workers' Compensation Section podcast, host Ken Hesser welcomes guests Juliana Schmidt and Dale Albright to reflect on their experiences at WCI, aka the "Comp Convention" over the years. They discuss the evolution of the convention, the importance of networking, and the impact of remote work on professional interactions. The conversation highlights the need for more educational opportunities for attorneys and the significance of personal connections in the legal field.

This is must-listen episode for anyone considering the path of board certification in Florida workers’ compensation law.  Jacksonville claimant’s attorney Amie DeGuzman, and Plantation E/C attorney Ryan Knight were each recently board certified in our practice area.    They talk about their experiences from the beginning, including the decision to apply, satisfying the trial requirements, and exam preparation.  Amie and Ryan also give unique perspective on the process, and the effect on their practice, from each respective “side” of the litigation world.

In this episode, we first chat with Sean McCormack, new Chair of the Workers' Compensation Section, who updates us on upcoming events and lends perspective as he enters the job.

Next, we chat with Lisa Thomas, state mediator out of Orlando/Maitland. Lisa has taken a big role in working with our new and "emerging" section members. We talk about her background, her involvement with the section, and how we can continue to grow as a statewide practice area.

This is a fun and informative show!

This is the inaugural edition of our podcast. Incoming Chair Sean McCormack and host Ken Hesser preview upcoming events in the Section.