The Rule of Law: The Academy Speaks

In this special episode, Joe speaks with Alicia Granse of ACLU-Minnesota and Kyle Wislocky of Ciresi Conlin about what they are seeing in Minneapolis, on the streets and in the courts. They discuss how community members are exercising their rights, documenting ICE activity, and standing up for their neighbors, then break down Tincher v. Noem and related cases surrounding violations of the First and Fourth Amendments.

To learn more visit: ⁠ACLU-MN⁠

In this special episode, Joe sits down with Paul Le Vay of Stockwoods LLP in Toronto and Paul Sreenan in Dublin to examine recent U.S. rhetoric around Greenland, sovereignty, truth, and power.

They explore how the Trump administration's claims about Greenland are received abroad. Many see it as another test of NATO, the European Union, and long-standing alliances. They also assess what global leaders think it means for diplomacy and stability. The result is a timely, measured conversation about decorum, responsibility, and the role lawyers play when the Rule of Law is tested publicly.

Part 2 of this special episode features Randy Smith, President of the Alfred Friendly Press Partners, and investigative journalist Patricia Marcano, who was forced to flee Venezuela after threats for reporting on the Maduro regime. Together, they unpack what's being reported, what may be missing, and why discerning listeners should seek out credible, independent sources.

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News from the Region

Part one of this special two-part episode brings together esteemed trial lawyers, Joe Tucker, Brian Gover, and Stan Garnett for a clear-eyed look at Venezuela’s crisis and what it signals for the Rule of Law. They unpack how the international community and the legal profession are reading this moment, what is at stake when legal norms become optional.

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News from the Region

Are you looking for ways to make a difference in 2026? Revisit this episode with Joe Tucker and President of the Arizona State Bar, Ted Schmidt. The pair discuss how small acts, like speaking in a classroom or organizing a local event, can spark broader civic engagement.

Tis the season!  Revisit this episode with Craig Peters, Partner at Altair Law in San Francisco. The conversation centers on optimism and its essential role in preserving democracy. Enjoy stories of three mentors who, despite overwhelming odds, held onto optimism as they worked to create lasting change. 

In the Season 2 finale, Joe Tucker and Kate Shaw, Professor of Law at UPenn Carey Law, confront the state of the Rule of Law in an era of selective prosecution, retaliation against critics, and concealment from the courts. They assess the Supreme Court’s response, measure the damage already done, and underscore the urgent role lawyers must play now to defend meaningful justice.

In this episode, Joe sits down with attorney and licensed psychotherapist Erica Grigg for a candid look at the strains of the legal profession, from long hours to traumatic cases to mounting political pressure. They make the case for mental wellness alongside ethics and effectiveness, and share practical ways attorneys can support colleagues and themselves.

In part two, Joe concludes his conversation with Antoinette Collignon on the Rule of Law and how U.S. leadership is seen abroad. Collignon notes Europe’s growing concern with the United States: some fear its commitment to democracy is only lip service, while others are alarmed by signs of alignment with Russia. She stresses the need for unity, respect, and strong alliances. Europe offers examples through the European Court of Human Rights, the European Union, and the closeness of history at its doorstep. Her message is clear: democracy survives only when allies stand together.

In part one, Joe is joined by Antoinette Collignon, who offers a European perspective on democracy and the Rule of Law. She reflects on the European Court of Human Rights’ rulings in Ukraine and the Netherlands v. Russia and the downing of Flight MH17, marking an important victory for the families of those killed. Antoinette also shares her own family’s World War II survival story, underscoring why history, accountability, and vigilance remain essential to protecting human rights.