The Indiana Lawyer Podcast with Maura Johnson

Host Maura Johnson talks with Jon Laramore, executive director of Indiana Legal Services, Inc. Laramore explains how the nonprofit provides free civil legal aid to low-income Hoosiers in all 92 counties, handling nearly 16,000 cases annually. From eviction defense and domestic violence cases to outreach partnerships and law school internships, the organization plays a vital role in ensuring access to justice. Laramore also discusses current funding challenges, the impact of federal appropriations, and how volunteers and donors can support ILS’s mission.

Zachary Myers, former U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana and now a partner at McCarter & English LLP, joins Indiana Lawyer reporter Maura Johnson to discuss his extensive background in prosecuting cybercrime, including ransomware, cryptocurrency fraud and international hacking. Myers shares how emerging threats have evolved and how law enforcement and private firms are adapting to protect businesses and individuals alike.

In this episode of The Indiana Lawyer Podcast, host Maura Johnson speaks with Fran Quigley, clinical professor at the IU Robert H. McKinney School of Law and director of the Housing Health and Human Rights Clinic. Quigley shares how he and his law students represent low-income Hoosiers facing eviction and the systemic challenges that drive Indiana’s high eviction rates. He also discusses his new book, "Lessons from Eviction Court: How We Fix Our Housing Crisis."

Host Maura Johnson talks with Frank Pulice, executive vice president and chief legal officer at Pacers Sports & Entertainment. Pulice outlines the wide range of legal responsibilities he manages for the Pacers, Fever, Noblesville Boom and Gainbridge Fieldhouse. He shares how Caitlin Clark’s arrival has elevated the Fever to NBA-level operations and explains how his team is preparing Indianapolis to host the 2025 WNBA All-Star Game. Hear the entire interview next week on The Indiana Lawyer Podcast.

As Hoosiers prepare for the Fourth of July, The Indiana Lawyer Podcast explores the legal spark behind the fireworks industry. New host Maura Johnson speaks with John Brooke, founding partner of Muncie-based Brooke and Struble, who has represented clients in fireworks law since the 1980s. Brooke discusses Indiana’s role in shaping national firework regulations, the impact of tariffs and droughts on the industry, and how a chance encounter launched his one-of-a-kind legal career.

In this episode of The Indiana Lawyer Podcast, host Alexa Shrake speaks with Allison Wharry, CEO of New Hope of Indiana, about her journey from practicing attorney to leading a nonprofit that serves adults with disabilities. Wharry shares how her J.D. continues to shape her work in employment law, advocacy and nonprofit leadership—and why law school opened doors to a fulfilling, nontraditional career path. She also offers advice for young professionals who feel pressure to define their future too early.

Host Alexa Shrake speaks with two recipients of The Indiana Lawyer’s 2025 Leadership in Law Awards. Distinguished Barrister honoree Kay Pashos, a partner at Taft, and Up and Coming Lawyer honoree Justin Hays, an associate at Church Church Hittle + Antrim, reflect on their legal careers, community work, and the mentors who inspired them. They discuss how their passions—ranging from energy law to mentoring youth—have shaped their work and why building strong relationships is key to lasting success in the legal profession.

In this episode of The Indiana Lawyer Podcast, host Alexa Shrake talks with state legislators Sen. Rodney Pol Jr. and Rep. Chris Jeter about Indiana’s recent legislative session. Both practicing attorneys, they share how they juggle lawmaking and lawyering, weigh in on key bills, from administrative reform to human trafficking protections and address the state’s ongoing attorney shortage. They also discuss efforts to reallocate courts, expand public safety resources and revive a law school in northwest Indiana.

In this episode, Kyle Fairchild, corporate counsel for Penske Entertainment, joins us to discuss the legal side of motorsports. He shares insights about the Racing Attorney Conference (TRAC), recent trends in motorsports law, and how Penske Entertainment manages legal operations for the Indianapolis 500, IMS, and IndyCar. Fairchild also reflects on his career journey, the growth of TRAC, and what makes the Indy 500’s pre-race traditions so special.

Gerard Magliocca, professor at Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law, joins host Alexa Shrake to discuss President Donald Trump's recent executive order aimed at redefining birthright citizenship, a principle established by the 14th Amendment. Magliocca provides historical context on the amendment's ratification, explains its intended purpose after the Civil War, and examines the legal arguments surrounding Trump's controversial order. He analyzes the ongoing litigation, which has seen federal judges issue temporary injunctions halting the policy's enforcement.