As part of our Space series, we recorded short interviews with a few select speakers at the inaugural Space Beach Law Lab conference in Long Beach, California. This one with Aaron Brynildson gets substantive, dips into hot topics in space policy and regulation, and demonstrates the range of venues in which a space law career can play out (military anyone?). Oh, and we also share our mutual appreciation for our time in the Ole Miss Center for Air and Space Law program, where Aaron obtained his LLM and I am pursuing one. Enjoy!

As part of our Space series, we recorded a short interview with Michelle Hanlon and Caryn Schenewerk, two former Portia Project guests who are leaders in Space Law, conducted right after they stepped off the stage at the inaugural Space Beach Law Lab conference in Long Beach, California. This one gets substantive, and dips into hot topics in space policy and regulation. Plus, for those aspiring space lawyers out there, get great advice on how to break into this field. Enjoy!

Legendary former California Court of Appeal Justice Patricia Benke, now in private practice at the Complex Appellate Litigation Group, shares her journey to the bench, tips for effective advocacy, and how when one door closes in your career another one opens. Don't miss this reservoir of wisdom that will undoubtedly inspire you to persevere, regardless of the obstacles on your path. Tune in for an episode that transcends legal insights, offering a compelling narrative of creativity and success.

Bonni Pomush, the CEO of Working Wardrobes, a leading nonprofit in Orange County, California, shares her path to nonprofit leadership and tips for leading and collaborating with others both inside and outside your organization. Named the Most Influential Person in Orange County by the Orange County Register in 2023, Bonni is an upbeat force for good, and a leader to learn from. Join this conversation and learn why nonprofit leadership can be a sensible choice for those who just finished law school and why working for impact can be the most fulfilling career choice.

As part of our series featuring leading women in space law, Kelsie Rutherford, Regulatory Counsel at SES, a global satellite operator, shares her journey to an in-house role and her leadership in space policy through her industry representation at the ITU's World Radiocommunication Conference in Dubai. Kelsie shares what it takes to break into the space industry and what makes an effective in-house counsel. Join in as she takes us into her unique career journey, offering us an insight into what’s in store for those brave enough to give this nascent industry a try. Tune in!

Our Space series featuring the leading ladies of Space Law and Space Exploration continues, with Bailey Reichelt, Co-Founder of startup law firm Aegis Space Law and former in-house counsel. Bailey and Aegis focus on trade law and regulatory counseling for NewSpace companies and startups. In this conversation, Bailey shares her journey in establishing Aegis Space Law and steering it to its current success. Along this trajectory, she highlights the collaborative dynamic with her law partner as a pivotal element that significantly contributed to their achievements. This episode is not only for those interested in carving out a Space Law career but for those seeking to start their nontraditional law firm. Tune in to not miss out!

Today's guest is one of LA Business Journal's Most Influential Women Lawyers for her pro bono work. Stacy Horth-Neubert, former journalist and BigLaw attorney, shares her pro bono journey and her new role as Executive Director of the Harriett Buhai Center (only the second leader in the organization's history). Stacy delves into the pivotal role mentors and sponsors play in her journey within the law firm arena, elaborating on the concept of cultivating various strands of sponsorship and mentorship. She also imparts valuable advice to fellow lawyers, emphasizing the significance of diversifying skill sets and elucidating the profound reasons behind such a strategic approach. This is an inspiring episode about the role of bar leadership in career development and holding fast to your dreams.

Alabama federal district judge Anna Manasco shares her journey from debate champion to appellate litigator and federal judge, and offers tips for young lawyers to grow their skills and gain opportunities to be mentored. Judge Manasco was nominated to the federal bench in February of 2020 and confirmed in May of 2020. Her journey to the bench was characterized by her willingness to learn from everyone and everything that comes her way in throughout her legal career. Tune in and be inspired!

Rachel Barchie shares her journey from BigLaw attorney to nonprofit and family foundation leader. She offers tips for those interested in transitioning from the practice of law to other arenas, and how legal skills add value to other leadership roles.

 Monica Palko, Chief Legal and Administrative Officer of "NewSpace" company York Systems, shares her journey to the top of the space industry. She offers useful advice for corporate lawyers on how to thrive in their positions and contribute meaningfully to the company. Monica discusses the major changes happening in the traditional and new space industries. She emphasizes the importance of being flexible, cost-effective, and the endless possibilities that come with the new space era. Leading in the universe means not only aiming for the stars but also guiding others to explore new galaxies with you. Tune in now!