ABOTA Speaks

ABOTA Speaks

by American Board of Trial Advocates
GovernmentHistory
Season 2

ABOTA Speaks with Jason Barnes and Chris Dominic on Understanding the Next Generation of Jurors

How are today’s jurors changing, and what does that mean for trial lawyers? Host Jill Webb talks with veteran trial consultants Jason Barnes and Chris Dominic about what they are seeing in their work with jurors and how trial lawyers can adapt their communication and courtroom presentations to better connect with a changing audience. Barnes and Dominic discuss shorter attention spans, the expectations created by digital media, and why effective courtroom communication increasingly requires more than a strong logical argument. They explain the importance of storytelling, credibility, authenticity and human values, and why the way an attorney delivers a message can be just as important—or more important—as the content itself. The conversation also explores the importance of giving younger lawyers opportunities to develop their courtroom and public-speaking skills, as well as how the composition of a trial team can affect its ability to connect with a younger and more diverse jury. Their advice for trial lawyers: don’t assume that what worked 10 years ago will work the same way today. Understand your audience, practice your delivery, and keep adapting. Learn more about ABOTA: www.abota.org Learn more about IMS Legal Strategies: http://imslegal.com ABOTA Speaks releases new episodes every two weeks. #ABOTA #ABOTASpeaks #JuryTrials #TrialAdvocacy #JuryConsulting #TrialLawyers #NextGenJurors
S2 · E20
Sep 30, 2026
17:00

ABOTA Speaks with Kenneth Padowitz on Turning Pixels into Proof

What happens when a trial lawyer sees technology not as a novelty, but as another way to help jurors understand the evidence? Host Jake Courtney talks with Florida trial attorney Kenneth Padowitz about a career spent pushing the boundaries of visual evidence in the courtroom. Padowitz traces that interest back to one of his earliest jury trials, when a simple hand-drawn diagram taught him a lasting lesson about the power of giving jurors something they could see. That lesson eventually led him to be the first to successfully introduce computer animation in the courtroom in 1992, an approach later upheld on appeal. Decades later, he took another step forward by successfully introducing virtual reality (“VR”) during a Florida court hearing. His creative approach to two-dimensional animations and immersive VR depicting the opinion of experts is inspirational. Padowitz and Courtney discuss how animations and VR can help fact finders visualize an expert’s opinion, the legal and practical challenges of introducing new technology into evidence, and why careful preparation and verification remain essential. They also look ahead to artificial intelligence and the growing role technology will play in trial practice. Learn more about Kenneth Padowitz and his firm: www.lauderdalecriminaldefense.com. Learn more about ABOTA: www.abota.org. ABOTA Speaks releases new episodes every two weeks. #ABOTA #ABOTASpeaks #TrialLaw #VirtualReality #LegalTechnology #CourtroomTechnology #JuryTrials
S2 · E19
Sep 16, 2026
30:49

ABOTA Speaks with H.W. Brands on Political Parties, Jury Trials, and American Democracy

Pulitzer Prize finalist and acclaimed historian H.W. Brands joins host Jill Webb for a fascinating conversation about political parties, democracy, and the American jury system. Drawing from his book Founding Partisans: Hamilton, Madison, Jefferson, Adams and the Brawling Birth of American Politics and his own recent experience serving on a civil jury, Brands explores the parallels between jury trials and democratic self-government—and the trust both place in ordinary citizens to listen to competing arguments, weigh the information before them, and make important decisions together. Brands reflects on what jury service taught him about deliberation and the importance of hearing all sides before forming an opinion. He considers what the jury room might teach us about political discourse and shares how the experience gave him a deeper appreciation for judges, trial lawyers, judicial independence, and the American justice system. The conversation offers a thought-provoking look at political parties, civic responsibility, and what the jury system can teach us about making decisions together in a democracy. Learn more about H.W. Brands and his books: H.W. Brands author page Learn more about ABOTA: www.abota.org ABOTA Speaks releases new episodes every two weeks. #ABOTA #ABOTASpeaks #JuryTrials #Democracy #JudicialIndependence #RuleOfLaw
S2 · E18
Sep 2, 2026
21:15

ABOTA Speaks with Amelie Karam on Leading Across Generations

Today's workplace includes more generations working side by side than ever before. How can leaders create an environment where every generation feels valued, engaged, and motivated to succeed? Host Jake Courtney is joined by generational expert Amelie Karam to discuss how law firms and organizations can build stronger multigenerational workplaces through intentional leadership, better communication, and meaningful connection. Amelie explains why successful firms move beyond generational stereotypes and instead create cultures where everyone feels heard, needed, and relevant. The conversation explores practical ways to strengthen workplace relationships, provide meaningful feedback, reduce burnout, and retain talented professionals. Jake and Amelie also discuss how these leadership principles apply not only to law firms, but to families, juries, and organizations of every kind. Whether you lead a law firm, mentor young attorneys, or simply want to better understand today's workplace, this episode offers practical insights for leading a multigenerational workforce. Learn more about Amelie: https://ameliekaram.com/ Learn more about ABOTA: www.abota.org ABOTA Speaks releases new episodes every two weeks. #ABOTA #ABOTASpeaks #Leadership #Mentorship #TrialLaw #WorkplaceCulture
S2 · E17
Aug 19, 2026
21:21

ABOTA Speaks on the Transformative Impact of the ABOTA National Trial College

The ABOTA National Trial College is more than a trial advocacy course—it's an immersive experience designed to help lawyers become more confident, capable, and effective advocates. Host Jake Courtney is joined by our 2026 Co-Chairs, Hon. Patricia Alvarez, Craig Peters, and Rich Schoenberger, to discuss what makes the ABOTA National Trial College one of the Nation’s premier educational programs for trial lawyers. They share how students spend the week learning by doing, receiving hands-on instruction from accomplished trial lawyers and judges, while developing the practical skills needed to succeed in the courtroom. The conversation explores the program's emphasis on professionalism, mentorship, and constructive feedback, along with the supportive environment that allows participants to build confidence by getting on their feet and trying new approaches in a safe setting. They also discuss the lasting friendships and professional relationships that continue long after the week concludes. Whether you are an experienced trial lawyer or an attorney looking to strengthen your trial advocacy skills, this episode offers an inside look at why the ABOTA National Trial College continues to have a lasting impact on the next generation of trial advocates. Learn more about the ABOTA National Trial College: www.abota.org ABOTA Speaks releases new episodes every two weeks. #ABOTA #ABOTASpeaks #TrialAdvocacy #NationalTrialCollege #RuleOfLaw
S2 · E16
Aug 5, 2026
39:54

ABOTA Speaks on Celebrating 20 Years of the Journalist Law School

For 20 years, the Journalist Law School has brought lawyers and journalists together in the shared pursuit of truth, justice, and accurate reporting. In this special anniversary episode, host Jill Webb is joined by Donna Melby, Beth Warren, and Dalila-Johari Paul to reflect on the program's remarkable legacy and its continued importance today. Donna Melby, ABOTA's first female National President and one of the founders of the Journalist Law School, shares how a simple conversation grew into a nationally recognized program dedicated to improving public understanding of the legal system. She reflects on the vision behind the program and ABOTA's longstanding commitment to judicial independence and the civil jury trial. Journalists Beth Warren and Dalila-Johari Paul discuss how attending the Journalist Law School transformed their careers. Beth, a former reporter for the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, was a Fellow for the inaugural Journalist Law School in 2006. She is currently a health care reporter for The Tennessean. Dalila, a former senior editor for CNN, is a 2022 Fellow of the Journalist Law School and currently serves as the National Editor for Capital B. They describe gaining a deeper understanding of the law, greater confidence in reporting complex legal issues, and lasting professional relationships that continue to strengthen their work today. Together, they explore why accurate legal reporting matters, how lawyers and journalists can learn from one another, and why the Journalist Law School remains as relevant today as it was 20 years ago. Learn more about ABOTA Learn more about the Journalist Law School ABOTA Speaks releases new episodes every two weeks. #ABOTA #ABOTASpeaks #Journalism #RuleOfLaw #JournalistLawSchool
S2 · E15
Jul 22, 2026
38:03

Alex Reboso on Leadership and the FLABOTA Annual Convention

Host Jake Courtney speaks with FLABOTA President Alex Reboso about his career, his path to ABOTA leadership, and the upcoming FLABOTA Annual Convention in Orlando, Florida. Alex reflects on the mentors who encouraged him to become more involved in ABOTA and shares how state and regional organizations help develop leaders while strengthening professionalism, civility, and lasting friendships throughout the association. Jake and Alex preview this year's FLABOTA Speaker Series, featuring timely discussions on judicial independence, artificial intelligence, and emerging issues facing today's legal profession. Alex explains why AI has become one of the profession's fastest-growing educational topics and discusses how ABOTA continues to respond to current challenges affecting lawyers and the courts. They also discuss what makes the FLABOTA Annual Convention unique. Designed as a family-friendly event, the convention combines outstanding educational programming with opportunities for members to reconnect with friends, spend time with family, and enjoy everything Orlando has to offer. Whether you are a longtime ABOTA member or attending a regional convention for the first time, this episode offers an inside look at why FLABOTA has become one of ABOTA's premier regional gatherings. Register for the FLABOTA Annual Convention. Learn more about ABOTA: www.abota.org ABOTA Speaks releases new episodes every two weeks. #ABOTA #ABOTASpeaks #TrialLaw #FLABOTA #RuleOfLaw
S2 · E14
Jul 8, 2026
28:58

Bill Shapiro and Cameron Getto on the ABOTA Summer Conference and National Board Meeting in Detroit

Host Jill Webb speaks with 2026 ABOTA National President Bill Shapiro and 2026 Michigan Chapter President Cameron Getto about the upcoming ABOTA Summer Conference and National Board Meeting in Detroit, Michigan. Bill and Cameron share why Detroit was selected as the host city and discuss the remarkable transformation the city has undergone over the past two decades. From revitalized historic buildings and thriving downtown neighborhoods to professional sports, restaurants, and entertainment, they offer a preview of what attendees can expect when they arrive in the Motor City. The conversation also highlights the unique value of attending an ABOTA National meeting. They discuss the conference speakers, planned activities, opportunities to explore Detroit, and why the event is designed to be enjoyable not only for members but also for spouses, guests, and families. Whether you are a longtime ABOTA member or have never attended a National meeting, this episode offers an inside look at what makes these gatherings such a meaningful part of the ABOTA experience. Register for the ABOTA Summer Conference and National Board Meeting in Detroit. Learn more about ABOTA: www.abota.org ABOTA Speaks releases new episodes every two weeks. #ABOTA #ABOTASpeaks #TrialLaw #Detroit #RuleOfLaw
S2 · E13
Jun 24, 2026
21:01

ABOTA Speaks with Javier Espinoza on Mentorship, Leadership, and the TEX-ABOTA Santa Fe CLE Roundup

Host Jake Courtney speaks with Javier Espinoza, President of TEX-ABOTA, about his journey from immigrant to trial lawyer, law firm owner, and ABOTA leader. Javier reflects on the teachers, mentors, and role models who helped shape his career and discusses the opportunities and relationships that helped him see possibilities he had not previously considered. Jake and Javier also discuss the upcoming TEX-ABOTA Santa Fe CLE Roundup in Santa Fe, New Mexico, including its unique history, nationally recognized speakers, and why it has become one of ABOTA's most anticipated educational and networking events. For information about the Roundup, including registration and hotel accommodations, visit the TEX-ABOTA Roundup registration page. The episode concludes with a discussion of Javier's podcast, LatinX Mentor, and the importance of mentorship for the next generation of professionals. Learn more about LatinX Mentor. Learn more about ABOTA: www.abota.org ABOTA Speaks releases new episodes every two weeks. #ABOTA #ABOTASpeaks #TrialLaw #Mentorship #Leadership #TEX-ABOTA
S2 · E12
Jun 18, 2026
33:16

Chief Judge Jennifer W. Elrod on Civility, Jury Trials, and Judicial Independence

In this episode of ABOTA Speaks, host Jill Webb speaks with Chief Judge Jennifer W. Elrod of the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit about civility in the legal profession, the importance of jury trials, and protecting public confidence in the judiciary. Drawing from her experience as both a trial judge and appellate judge, Chief Judge Elrod shares practical wisdom on professionalism, mentorship, and why lawyers must learn to work respectfully with those they may oppose in court. She reflects on how collegiality and civility shape stronger lawyers, stronger courts, and stronger communities. The conversation takes a musical twist as she offers a memorable example of how she teaches these values—through musical performances with her local Inn of Court—showing how creativity and connection can make lessons about professionalism and ethics truly stick. Watch an example from 2020: “We’ll Be Back,” performed by federal trial and appellate judges in Houston and Galveston:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-TJ1ohwAsgY The conversation explores the constitutional importance of jury trials, preserving the Seventh Amendment, and why young lawyers need more real courtroom experience early in their careers. Chief Judge Elrod also discusses judicial independence, public confidence in the courts, and the responsibility lawyers have in defending the rule of law. She closes with a reminder that professionalism begins with human connection—stepping away from our phones, listening carefully, and treating one another with respect. Learn more about ABOTA: www.abota.org ABOTA Speaks releases new episodes every two weeks. #ABOTA #ABOTASpeaks #TrialLaw #JuryTrial #JudicialIndependence #Civility
S2 · E11
May 27, 2026
16:49
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