IADC Speaks

Hosted by IADC

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Episodes

100

Latest episode

Jun 2026

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About the show

IADC Speaks is the official podcast of the International Association of Defense Counsel. These largely unscripted interviews take place in about 30 minutes, and episodes will cover a variety of topics of interest to those in the legal arena.

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60 recent

June 15, 2026Episode 10122 min

Justice in Action: International Legal Foundation (ILF)

The IADC Foundation supports organizations around the world that advance the rule of law and expand access to justice. In this special series, we sit down with leaders from Foundation grantee organizations to explore their missions, the communities they serve, and the real-world impact of their work. In this episode of IADC Speaks, Host Cecilia Lahaye (Crowell & Moring) speaks with Shikha Pandey (International Legal Foundation, Program Director, Asia) about ILF, a non-profit organization dedicated to expanding access to legal aid and quality criminal defense services in countries facing conflict, authoritarian rule, and systemic crises. Shikha shares her personal journey to ILF and discusses its mission to bridge gaps in justice systems, and the critical role skilled legal representation plays in protecting individual rights and strengthening communities. Through compelling stories and real examples, she illustrates how access to defense counsel can transform lives and why support from organizations such as the IADC Foundation is essential to advancing the rule of law. This conversation highlights how access to justice is not an abstract principle but a concrete necessity for people facing some of the world's most challenging circumstances.

June 8, 2026Episode 10023 min

From Concept to 100: Celebrating IADC Speaks

In this special 100th episode of IADC Speaks, Host Rebecca Weinstein Bacon (Bartlit Beck LLP) is joined by Matt Cairns (Textron Inc.), Dominic Campodonico (Gordon Rees Scully Mansukhani, LLP), and Michele Smith (MehaffyWeber) – individuals who have each played a unique role in the podcast's journey.Together, they reflect on the show's beginnings, its evolution over the years, and some of their favorite episodes and memorable moments along the way.Whether you've been listening since Episode 1 or are discovering IADC Speaks for the first time, join us as we celebrate 100 episodes of conversations, insights, and community.

May 19, 2026Episode 9939 min

The Neutral's Playbook: Practical Guides for Counsel in Arbitration and Mediation - Part 1

The Neutral’s Playbook: Practical Guides for Counsel in Arbitration and Mediation is a four-part series exploring the realities of modern dispute resolution. Featuring experienced arbitration and mediation practitioners, the series delivers action-oriented guidance to counsel navigating complex proceedings. Whether addressing domestic or international disputes, each conversation offers practical insight for lawyers, arbitrators, and emerging practitioners alike.In this episode, IADC Speaks Host Al Vance (Vance Dispute Resolution, PC) chats with Daniela Karollus-Bruner (CMS – Vienna) and Christopher A. Kenney (Bowditch & Dewey, LLP) on how to prepare and manage arbitration. The conversation covers topics such as how to get an arbitrator engaged, the noticeable differences between US and international arbitrations, and primary drivers for the use of arbitration.--Join the IADC for our first International Arbitration Skills Academy {July 4}. This one-day advocacy training will guide attendees in the art of cross-examination as it relates to international arbitration. You’ll discuss techniques, watch demonstrations, and participate in a mock hearing. Learn more: https://www.iadclaw.org/events/international-arbitration-skills-academy/

May 4, 2026Episode 9853 min

Not Just Surviving but Thriving in the Legal Profession

In this episode of IADC Speaks, Host Amy Stewart (Stewart Law Group) leads a candid and thought-provoking conversation with Sherylle Francis (Universal Property and Casualty Ins. Co.), Mark Goldstein (Reed Smith LLP), and Marcia Narine Weldon (University of Miami School of Law) on the realities of mental health in the legal profession. Together, they explore the pressures lawyers face, share personal and professional perspectives, and discuss how the industry is evolving to better support well-being. From recognizing warning signs to fostering a more supportive culture, this episode offers practical insights and meaningful takeaways for lawyers at every stage of their careers—reminding us all of the importance of prioritizing wellness and seeking support when needed.

April 20, 2026Episode 9713 min

Live from Chicago: What Makes the 2026 CCC Stand Out

Recorded live in Chicago, IADC Speaks Host Yasir Billoo (International Law Partners LLP) sits down with Rebecca Weinstein Bacon (Bartlit Beck LLP), Karen Glickstein (FineLine Employment Law), and Julie McKee (Garmin International) fresh from the 2026 Corporate Counsel College (CCC).They dive into what makes the College stand out, sharing candid first impressions, behind-the-scenes insights, and highlights from the programming and keynote—plus a nod to the vibrant host city.

April 13, 2026Episode 9625 min

Pro Bono in Practice with Ali Spindler and Vanessa Szalapski

As passionate advocates for pro bono work, Ali Spindler (Irwin Fritchie Urquhart Moore & Daniels) and Vanessa Szalapski (Dorsey & Whitney LLP) are truly lawyers who lead.In this episode, IADC Speaks Host Bridget Hoy (Lewis Rice LLC) sits down with them to explore how they make pro bono a meaningful and consistent part of their practice. From supporting children’s immigration cases to helping courts address case backlogs, they share powerful stories of impact. Along the way, they discuss how these efforts create opportunities to mentor junior attorneys, foster team collaboration, and build stronger professional relationships.

March 31, 2026Episode 9510 min

A Look at the IADC 2026 Corporate Counsel College

IADC Speaks Host Allison Ng (Greenberg Traurig, LLP) chats with Corporate Counsel College Dean Spencer Silverglate (Clarke Silverglate, PA) about this year’s program held in Chicago, April 16 and 17. Listen for a quick run-down of what the College is, who it is for, and what to expect with this year’s sessions—covering everything from Supreme Court business cases and judicial leadership to AI risk, workplace issues, and evolving regulatory challenges. Learn more and register at www.iadclaw.org.

March 23, 2026Episode 961 hr 0 min

Bullying in the Legal Profession: Does It Actually Work?

Bullying is rampant in the legal profession. Nearly every lawyer has been bullied at some point in their career. And some will even admit that they have been guilty of being the bully. It happens, but does it actually work? IADC Speaks Host Amy Stewart (Stewart Law Group, PLLC) explores the extent of bullying in the legal profession with Michael Bassett (The Bassett Firm), Judge Royal Furgeson (retired United States District Judge for Western and Northern District of Texas), and Scott Stolley (Stolley Law, PC). They discuss four types of bullying: by opposing counsel, by clients, by colleagues, and by judges. Hear real-life examples and walk away with practical strategies to recognize, respond to, and ultimately shut down bullying.

March 16, 2026Episode 9330 min

A Change of Heart: Resilience, Perspective, and Life After Transplant

In this episode of IADC Speaks, Host Matt Cairns (Textron Inc.) sits down with IADC member Walter Judge (Downs, Rachlin & Martin) for a candid conversation about resilience, perspective, and navigating life after a major health crisis.In January 2025, what Walter initially believed was heartburn during a deposition quickly became something far more serious. Within hours, he learned he was experiencing heart failure and would ultimately need a heart transplant. Walter spent over a month between hospitals and medical centers on life support while waiting for a new heart—an experience that reshaped nearly every aspect of his life.Now celebrating the one-year anniversary of his transplant, Walter reflects on the journey that followed: the support of family, the impact of a life-changing diagnosis, and how his perspective on work, health, and the future has evolved. From reevaluating priorities and planning for retirement to learning to slow down and enjoy life beyond work, Walter shares the lessons that emerged from an extraordinary year.This thoughtful conversation offers a meaningful reminder about perspective, balance, and making time for what matters most.

February 16, 2026Episode 9219 min

Live from New Orleans: What Makes the 2026 Midyear Meeting Stand Out

Recorded live from New Orleans, IADC Speaks Host Yasir Billoo (International Law Partners LLP) is joined by Alex Fischer (Sanchez Fischer Levine, LLP), Melissa Lin (Gordon Rees Scully Mansukhani), and Kamil Zawicki (Kubas Kos Galkowski) for a real-time reflection on the 2026 Midyear Meeting.Over four dynamic days, attendees experienced exceptional educational programming, an impactful keynote, and the vibrant energy of New Orleans during Mardi Gras season. In this candid conversation, the group swaps favorites — from standout sessions to memorable IADC moments — and shares what made this year’s MYM distinctive.If you couldn’t attend, or want to relive the highlights, this episode captures the spirit, substance, and community that defined the IADC 2026 Midyear Meeting.