Trial Tested

Bridging Divides: Sharon McMahon on Civics, Democracy, and Civil Discourse in America

Sharon McMahon, renowned as 'America's government teacher' and host of the podcast ‘Here’s Where It Gets Interesting,' joins host Amy Gunn to discuss topics such as nonpartisan civics education, fostering respectful dialogue and the importance of democracy. Originally a high school government teacher, Sharon unexpectedly transitioned to a national platform, driven by a desire to combat political misinformation and promote civil discourse. She stresses the need for empathy and engagement to bridge ideological divides and promote an educated electorate.

 

“Special Episode: Judge Willie Epps on Persistence, Breaking Barriers, and Seeing Yourself in the Room You’re In”

Honorable Willie J. Epps, Jr., judge in the U.S. District Court, Western District of Missouri, and author of The Jackie Robinsons of the Federal Judiciary: Examining the Appointment of the First Black Federal Judges, joins host Amy Gunn to discuss the history of Black federal judges, mentoring young lawyers, and fair and impartial treatment – irrespective of race – in the courtroom.

 

S7E6: Dissents and Answers: Insights from The Hon. Suzanne Côté, Supreme Court of Canada

The Hon. Suzanne Côté was the first woman to be appointed to the Supreme Court of Canada directly from private practice in 2014. This week, Madam Justice Côté joins host Amy Gunn to discuss her surprising journey from litigator to the Supreme Court, the heathy value of dissenting opinions and the importance of “answering the question.”

S7E5: Exploring Reason, Conviction and the U.S. Constitution with Jeffrey Rosen

Jeffrey Rosen, President and CEO of the National Constitution Center (NCC) in Philadelphia, joins host Renee Rothauge for a comprehensive discussion about the US Constitution. They explore topics ranging from civics education to the impact of AI to the importance of fostering civil discourse on constitutional principles, all underscored with Rosen’s dedication to educating people about the Constitution through the NCC’s innovative platforms.

S7E4: Exoneration: a 28-Year Journey to Freedom with Lamar Johnson and Innocence Project attorney Charlie Weiss

Late one night in 1994, Marcus Boyd was fatally shot on his front porch, leading to the wrongful conviction of Lamar Johnson. In 2023, Johnson finally walked out of a courtroom a free man after having served nearly 28 years for a crime he didn't commit. In this episode, host Terri Mascherin is joined by Johnson and attorney Charlie Weiss to discuss the importance of Pro Bono work and the extensive investigation that ultimately led to Johnson’s exoneration.

S7E3: Empathy, Understanding, and Effective Advocacy: Insights from Judge Jeremy Fogel

From religious discrimination to execution protocol, Judge Jeremy Fogel is no stranger to handling challenging matters in his courtroom. Judge Fogel, recipient of the Samuel E. Gates Litigation Award, joins host Dave Thomas to discuss effective advocacy, emphasizing empathy and mindfulness in the courtroom. By examining the role of culture, language and trauma in shaping individuals’ experiences, Judge Fogel delves into the importance of addressing unconscious biases within the legal profession.

S7E2: Integrity in the Courtroom with David Beck

ACTL Past President David Beck emphasizes the importance of humility, hard work, and continual learning in this interview with host Vince Citro. With notable involvement in pivotal cases such as the BP Oil Spill litigation and other matters for Exxon, Beck's extensive career has earned him respect and admiration from clients and legal professionals alike.

S7E1: From Courtroom to Courtside: Michele Roberts on Law and the National Basketball Players Association

For Michele Roberts, former Executive Director of the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA), a career in law was sparked when her mother took her to observe local court proceedings as a child. Host Mike Herring delves into her experiences as Chief of the Trial Division at the PDS, her transition to private practice and her pivotal role at the NBPA. Roberts provides valuable insights on managing egos and agendas while maintaining credibility and connection, both in and out of the courtroom.

S6E6: Brian Gover on Due Process and Equity for All

Brian Gover is known for tackling complex legal issues and leaving an indelible mark on high-profile cases throughout his career. Gover discusses his work in criminal and Aboriginal law, where he has represented both the Crown and individuals seeking justice. In this captivating conversation with host Dave Thomas, Gover emphasizes the importance of due process and treating both the powerful and powerless with equity.

S6E5: Escaping the Taliban: How Judges Patricia Whalen and Mona Lynch helped Women Judges in Afghanistan

In 2021, as international peacekeeping forces prepared to withdraw from Afghanistan, about 270 Afghan women serving as judges feared for their lives. A small group of international women judges, led by Patricia Whalen and Mona Lynch, tirelessly coordinated evacuations and sought government assistance to help these women escape. Join host Terri Mascherin for an inspiring conversation with Judges Whalen and Lynch as they share their remarkable story of bravery and perseverance.