The Lawtino™

In this episode of LAWTINO, we explore what it truly means to build a legal career across borders. Based in San Diego and Tijuana, our guests—a husband-and-wife attorney duo—share their professional journeys navigating two legal systems, two cultures, and one interconnected community.

The conversation covers high-stakes cross-border litigation, including multimillion-dollar disputes, as well as the complexities of family and business law between the United States and Mexico. The guests emphasize that effective legal representation goes beyond language, requiring a deep understanding of cultural context.

They also discuss how they built their respective law firms, offering practical insight into client acquisition, networking, and long-term business growth. From starting with limited resources to developing strong referral networks and digital presence, they provide a realistic look at what it takes to succeed in the legal profession.

In addition to legal strategy, the episode highlights the human side of the profession. The guests reflect on working together as a married couple, raising children while managing demanding trial schedules, and maintaining balance in a high-pressure career.

This episode offers valuable perspective for attorneys, entrepreneurs, and anyone interested in navigating opportunities across borders.

A deep dive into the San Diego–Tijuana region through the lens of binational leadership, exploring how two cities across an international border operate as one dynamic, interconnected community. This conversation unpacks the unique relationship between the U.S. and Mexico at a local level—where culture, commerce, and collaboration intersect to create one of the most active cross-border regions in the world. From business and tourism to public policy, trade, and economic development, it highlights the systems and partnerships that keep this binational engine moving forward.

Beyond the big-picture vision, the discussion also takes a grounded look at the real challenges shaping daily life and long-term growth in the region. Topics like border wait times, tariffs, housing affordability, and infrastructure are explored in depth, offering insight into how these issues impact both individuals and industries on both sides of the border. At the same time, it emphasizes the vast opportunities available to entrepreneurs, professionals, and organizations willing to think beyond borders and operate within a truly bicultural environment.

This is a conversation about connection, resilience, and possibility—showcasing how collaboration across borders can drive innovation, strengthen communities, and redefine what it means to live and work in a globally connected region.

In this episode of The Lawtino Podcast, Sean Gómez and David Arreguín sit down with Joe Garcia—pastor and Escondido City Council member—for an in-depth conversation about his personal journey and his role as a community leader. Joe shares how his background in faith has shaped his approach to public service, and how he navigates the intersection of spirituality, politics, and civic responsibility.

The discussion explores some of the most pressing issues facing Escondido today, including immigration, economic development, and the evolving role of arts and culture in building a vibrant and inclusive community. They also dive into the importance of open dialogue, collaboration, and staying connected to the people leaders serve.

This episode offers a thoughtful and honest look at what it means to lead with purpose, bridge cultural divides, and work toward stronger, more united communities—both locally and across borders.

Pako Pablos is the Founder of Pako Pablos Studios. He is an artist and a multidisciplinary creator and entrepreneur whose studio develops high-end artwork, apparel, and immersive augmented reality experiences that bring art to life. Pako blends sports, pop culture, and Mexican heritage to create globally recognized collections while collaborating with elite athletes and brands. His work serves as a gateway to building cross-border initiatives, connecting communities, and expanding opportunities through art and culture.

Creativity rarely follows a straight path. It often weaves through unexpected detours, shaped by discipline, identity, and the willingness to adapt. The intersection of culture, opportunity, and persistence reveals how individuals build something meaningful from evolving circumstances — but what drives that transformation?

The answer lies in resilience and strategic thinking. Pako Pablos, a multidisciplinary artist and entrepreneur, turned early experiences in sports and migration into a foundation for building a global creative brand. He highlights the importance of asking the right questions, leveraging networks, and staying authentic while evolving with technology. Pako's story demonstrates that sustainable growth is driven by aligning creativity with purposeful action.

In this episode of The Lawtino™, John Gomez and David Arreguin sit down with Pako Pablos, Founder of Pako Pablos Studios, to discuss how creativity, resilience, and branding shape success. Pako shares how he built a career by leveraging art as a business tool, adapting to new technologies, and creating cross-border opportunities. He also explores networking strategies, cultural identity, and lessons from working with high-profile collaborators.

Jose Rojas is the Founding Partner and Trial Attorney at Ventura Law and Levin, Rojas, Camassar & Reck, LLC. He is a Connecticut-based lawyer focused on personal injury, medical malpractice, and mass tort litigation. His firms represent individuals harmed by negligence, defective products, and corporate misconduct, which include complex nationwide cases. Jose helped develop influential litigation involving infant formula risks, contributing to one of the country's most significant mass tort efforts. He previously served as a US Army JAG officer and as a federal prosecutor before dedicating his career to advocating for injured clients.

Some of the most meaningful changes in society don't begin with large institutions — they start with a single story being taken seriously. In complex systems like healthcare, it can be difficult to question long-standing practices, even when the stakes are life and death. What happens when someone decides to dig deeper instead of dismissing the unlikely?

The answer begins with a lawyer willing to listen. Jose Rojas, a trial attorney specializing in medical malpractice, personal injury, and mass torts, shares how one case uncovered systemic risks tied to infant formula use in premature babies. Jose highlights the importance of trusting clients, thoroughly investigating claims, and challenging accepted norms. His insights emphasize that real impact comes from combining empathy with persistence and being open to what others overlook.

In this episode of The Lawtino™, John Gomez talks with Jose Rojas, Founding Partner and Trial Attorney at Ventura Law and Levin, Rojas, Komisar & Reck, about uncovering infant formula risks. Jose discusses how the case began, why it evolved into mass tort litigation, and how it's changing hospital practices. He also touches on diversity in law and mentoring future attorneys.

Esther Valdés Clayton is the Founder and Principal Attorney of Valdés & Associates, a San Diego-based firm that represents individuals and families in visas, green cards, asylum, deportation defense, and complex immigration appeals cases. She concentrates on empowering underserved communities and helping clients navigate the US immigration system with dignity and integrity. A Mexican-American attorney and nationally recognized voice on immigration issues, Esther is frequently featured on television and media outlets, offering legal analysis and commentary on immigration policy and reform.

Success is often described as a combination of opportunity and effort, but for many, it also involves navigating complex systems, cultural identity, and deeply held beliefs. The path is rarely linear, especially when shaped by hardships, responsibility, and a desire to give back. How do immigration, faith, and perseverance come together to define the American Dream?

Accomplished immigration attorney Esther Valdés Clayton explains that achieving success requires discipline, education, and a commitment to doing things the right way — even when the odds are stacked against you. Esther emphasizes working within the legal system while advocating for practical reform, encouraging individuals to stay informed, seek guidance from trusted sources, and avoid shortcuts that can lead to long-term consequences. She also highlights how faith and values can serve as a foundation for resilience, helping individuals stay grounded while pursuing both personal and professional goals.

In this episode of The Lawtino™, John Gomez talks with Esther Valdés Clayton, Founder and Principal Attorney of Valdés & Associates, about immigration, faith, and the American Dream. Esther discusses her journey from poverty to legal success, her views on immigration reform, and her commitment to ethical advocacy. She also shares insights on avoiding scams and empowering Latino communities.

Jorge García is the Dean of Admissions and Financial Aid at the California Western School of Law, where he oversees admissions strategy and financial aid initiatives that support student recruitment and access to legal education. With 23 years of law school admissions experience, he has also spent 33 years administering financial aid to undergraduate and law school students. Before joining the California Western School of Law, Jorge served as the Director and Assistant Dean of Admissions, Financial Aid, and Diversity Initiatives at the University of San Diego School of Law.

The path to becoming a lawyer can feel confusing, especially for students who are the first in their families to navigate higher education. Between financial barriers, admissions tests, and limited guidance, many talented students never recognize the opportunities available to them. How can aspiring law students gain access to information to kickstart their education?

Higher education admissions leader Jorge García maintains that aspiring lawyers should focus on building strong academic foundations, seeking reliable guidance directly from admissions advisors, and understanding the multiple pathways to a successful career — including starting at community college. Jorge also encourages students who must work during school to highlight their work ethic and leadership in applications, reminding them that perseverance and grit often matter just as much as test scores.

In this episode of The Lawtino™, John Gomez and David Arreguin sit down with Jorge García, Dean of Admissions and Financial Aid at the California Western School of Law, to discuss pathways into law school for first-generation students. Jorge shares his journey from community college to higher education leadership, how admissions teams evaluate LSAT scores and life experience, and why law school applications are rising as more students pursue legal careers to advocate for their communities.

Kathia Bustillos is the Board Chair and Executive Director of the Foundation for the Children of the Californias, a nonprofit that supports pediatric healthcare and equity for children across the San Diego-Tijuana region. As a leader in media, public relations, and philanthropy, she became the first woman to head a regional Televisa station and lead community-focused organizations. Kathia focuses on expanding access to pediatric care and building sustainable, culturally responsive health systems for underserved children and families.

Leadership across borders demands cultural fluency, resilience, and a deep commitment to community. In a region where two countries function as one economic and social ecosystem, impactful leadership depends on understanding both sides of the line. What does it take to lead effectively in a binational region?

According to veteran media executive and cross-border strategist Kathia Bustillos, leadership begins with understanding the community you serve. She emphasizes adapting strategies to local realities rather than applying one-size-fits-all models, investing in education and continuous growth to break barriers, and building trust by listening directly to underserved communities. Kathia also encourages leaders to implement solutions immediately — even before holding formal power — to create tangible impact.

In this episode of The Lawtino™, David Arreguin sits down with Kathia Bustillos, Board Chair and Executive Director of the Foundation for the Children of the Californias, to discuss leadership in the Cali-Baja region. Kathia talks about her rise as the first female CEO of a Televisa station, her Tijuana mayoral campaign and community initiatives, and her launch of an AI-driven teen mental health program.

Attorney Narciso Cruz is the Owner of The Cruz Law Office, APC, an immigration-focused legal practice. Admitted to the California Bar in 2011, Narciso has appeared before federal and immigration courts and built his firm on compassionate, personalized representation for clients facing legal challenges. Before founding The Cruz Law Office, Narciso served at one of San Diego's largest immigration law firms.

Managing a law practice demands resilience, vision, and the ability to lead through constant change. As systems shift and pressures mount, many lawyers wonder how to keep growing without burning out or losing purpose. What does it take to build a practice that's sustainable, impactful, and future-ready?

Immigration attorney and entrepreneur Narciso Cruz built systems to support his clients and his team. He emphasizes setting a clear long-term vision and working backward into quarterly and daily priorities, rather than reacting to constant noise. Narciso also encourages leaders to protect their mindset through habits like gratitude journaling, invest early in marketing consistency, and hire operators who free them up to focus on growth. These practices turn chaos into clarity and effort into momentum.

In today's episode of The Lawtino™, John Gomez and David Arreguin chat with Attorney Narciso Cruz, Owner of The Cruz Law Firm, APC, about building a modern, scalable law practice. Narciso discusses leading through uncertainty, using marketing and storytelling to build trust, and leveraging global talent and systems to grow with intention.

Lara Deitz is the Senior Trial Attorney at Gomez Trial Attorneys, a San Diego-based personal injury and civil litigation law firm. She focuses on personal injury, civil rights, and related plaintiff-side litigation. Before joining Gomez Trial Attorneys, Lara practiced family law litigation. She has also been recognized as a Rising Stars attorney for 2025–2026.

Behind courtroom wins and professional titles are moments of doubt, pivots, and values-driven decisions that shape how attorneys show up for their clients. What does it take to build a meaningful legal career while staying grounded in community, purpose, and personal growth?

According to civil rights trial attorney Lara Deitz, fulfillment comes from alignment, not prestige. She emphasizes the importance of acquiring mentors early in your career, gaining hands-on courtroom experience rather than relying solely on grades, and leveraging cultural and language fluency to advocate for clients. A sustainable legal career requires purpose, preparation, and connection.

In this episode of The Lawtino™, John Gomez and David Arreguin sit down with Lara Deitz, Senior Trial Attorney at Gomez Trial Attorneys, to discuss building a purpose-driven trial career. Lara talks about handling high-profile civil rights cases, the importance of bilingual advocacy, and balancing demanding litigation with leadership, mentorship, and motherhood.