Sports 'N Torts

Hosted by Joshua Stein

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227

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Nov 2026

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About the show

Sports ’N Torts isn’t just another sports podcast or another legal show—it’s where the two worlds collide. Each week, host Joshua Stein sits down with lawyers, judges, business leaders, and athletes to explore the connections between sports, law, and life. From breaking down marquee matchups like March Madness, the Masters, Braves baseball, and Georgia football, to diving deep into the business of running a successful law practice, the conversations are lively, personal, and always insightful. Listeners get more than scores and case law—they get stories. Guests share how they built their careers, the challenges they’ve faced, and the lessons learned both inside the courtroom and on the playing field. Along the way, Joshua brings his own perspective as a trial lawyer, coach, and passionate fan to keep the conversations fun, relatable, and engaging. If you’re looking for a podcast that mixes big-game previews with behind-the-scenes looks at the legal industry, plus a healthy dose of business strategy and community, pull up a chair. Sports ’N Torts is your front-row seat to the conversations where sports and law intersect.

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November 5, 202658 min

Ep 228: The Tables Are Turned: A Crossover with The Bettis Musgrove Show

It's a special crossover episode of Sports ’N Torts! This week, we're doing something a little different. Instead of hosting the conversation, Josh is on the other side of the microphone as a guest of his friends Ben Musgrove and Spencer Bettis on the Bettis Musgrove Show . Ben joined Sports ’N Torts last year, and the two have developed a friendship through their shared profession, golf, and a mutual belief in the importance of community relationships. After Josh encouraged Ben to lean into his passion for community involvement when developing his own podcast, the Bettis Musgrove Show found its identity as a platform highlighting the people, businesses, and stories that make their local community special. Now, the two podcasts are coming together to share this conversation with both audiences. The three discuss Josh's journey from growing up in Cobb County and attending the University of Georgia to beginning his legal career defending insurance companies before eventually transitioning to representing injured people and opening J. Stein Law Firm. The conversation explores what it means to build a law practice on your own terms, why bigger isn't always better, and the importance of resisting the temptation to measure success against what other attorneys are doing. They also discuss community involvement, the value of genuine relationships, and how podcasting has become an unexpected tool for networking, personal growth, and even becoming a better lawyer. And because this is a conversation among friends, there are plenty of detours along the way. Josh turns the tables and asks Ben and Spencer about their own backgrounds, their law partnership, and the evolution of their podcast. There are also stories about golf, family, books, and the personalities behind the microphones. At its core, this episode is about friendship, community, consistency, and defining success for yourself rather than letting others define it for you. A special thank you to Ben, Spencer, and the entire Bettis Musgrove Show team for the invitation, the hospitality, and the opportunity to share this conversation with the Sports ’N Torts audience. SHOW NOTES A special crossover episode! Josh joins Ben Musgrove and Spencer Bettis on the Bettis Musgrove Show , trading his usual role as host for a seat in the guest chair. How Josh encouraged Ben to find the community-focused direction for the Bettis Musgrove Show. Growing up in Cobb County, attending Walton High School, and spending seven years at the University of Georgia for undergraduate studies and law school. Beginning a legal career defending insurance companies, gaining valuable courtroom experience at Progressive, and eventually transitioning to representing injured people. Why Josh chose to build a smaller, more personal law practice rather than pursue a high-volume model. Defining success on your own terms and remembering that comparison is the thief of joy. The importance of being a hometown lawyer, supporting local schools and organizations, and building relationships within the community. Why genuine connections and word-of-mouth referrals remain so valuable in an era of expensive advertising and mass marketing. The origins of Sports ’N Torts, from Georgia football and the Braves' championship runs to more than 200 podcast episodes. Why consistency, enjoying the process, and meaningful conversations matter more than download statistics. How podcasting has helped Josh become a better lawyer by improving his listening skills, deposition techniques, and ability to connect with people. Lessons learned from interviewing hundreds of attorneys, entrepreneurs, athletes, and other interesting personalities. Josh turns the tables to learn more about Ben and Spencer, including how they met, became law partners, and built their firm. Spencer's military service, his recent deployment to Poland, and the challenges of balancing professional responsibilities with family life. The benefits and challenges of law firm partnerships compared with operating a solo practice. Golf stories, including Ben's remarkable ability to follow a terrible hole with an incredible shot. The evolution of podcasting, from scripted interviews and basic equipment to natural conversations and professional studios. Memorable Sports ’N Torts episodes, including some unexpected charitable fundraising efforts and live haircuts. Family, books, favorite meals, and the lighter side of life outside the practice of law. The value of friendship, community, and creating opportunities to support one another personally and professionally. As always, this episode is powered by the J. Stein Law firm - a personaly injury law firm in Atlanta, Ga - www.jsteinlawfirm.com. You can check out the Bettis Musgrove Show on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DZis_Wm3mJU.

November 3, 202643 min

College Football's Last Call: Week 9 - Florida Has a Georgia Problem. Who Makes the First CFP Top 12?

The Georgia Bulldogs own the Florida Gators. Eleven of the last fifteen. Nine of the last ten. Six straight. And this year's 27–8 victory was about as stress-free as they come. The boys are back for Week 9 of College Football's Last Call , celebrating another Georgia win over Florida while breaking down a dominant defensive performance led by Chris Cole, the return of KJ Bolden, and a few lingering concerns about Gunner Stockton, the offense, and special teams. With a huge road trip to Ole Miss looming, is Georgia starting to look like a championship contender? Around the country, Ohio State's playoff hopes take a major hit after losing to USC, Indiana somehow survives another wild finish, and No. 1 Miami escapes North Carolina. The guys also tackle the coaching carousel, questionable two-point conversion decisions, and the first College Football Playoff rankings—with a little help (and some questionable math) from ChatGPT. Then it's on to a loaded Week 10 slate, including Georgia at Ole Miss, Miami at Notre Dame, and Alabama at LSU. Laurence delivers his Sucker Bet of the Week, and Jason reaches deep into Georgia football history for a memorable Jimbo of the Week. Another Florida beatdown, another week of college football chaos, and another Last Call. Go Dawgs! SHOW NOTES Georgia owns Florida: Eleven of the last fifteen, nine of the last ten, and six straight victories over the Gators. Georgia's 27–8 win over Florida and the dominant defensive performance that made it possible. Chris Cole continues to emerge as a superstar, KJ Bolden returns, and Georgia's defense shuts down Florida's running game. Florida's offensive struggles, costly mistakes, and the growing frustration of Gator fans. Concerns about Gunner Stockton's tentative play, Georgia's conservative second-half offense, and special teams struggles. The Georgia–Florida rivalry moves indoors to Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Did the Atlanta experience live up to expectations? Ole Miss pulls away from Auburn, South Carolina continues its resurgence, and the SEC coaching carousel heats up with Mike Norvell's departure from Florida State. Ohio State falls to USC. How much trouble are Ryan Day and the Buckeyes in without Julian Sayin? Are coaches relying too heavily on analytics? The guys question some costly two-point conversion decisions. Indiana survives Minnesota in a wild finish featuring two 60-yard field goals. Are the Hoosiers lucky, resilient, or both? No. 1 Miami narrowly escapes North Carolina. Are the Hurricanes really the best team in college football? ChatGPT vs. the boys: Predicting the first College Football Playoff rankings, debating conference representation, and discovering that AI still has a few things to learn about playoff rules. A loaded Week 10 schedule featuring Georgia at Ole Miss, Miami at Notre Dame, Alabama at LSU, BYU at Utah, and more. Georgia at Ole Miss preview: Can Nate Frazier and the Bulldogs' rushing attack control the game? Will Chris Cole and Georgia's defense contain Trinidad Chambliss? Sucker Bet of the Week: Laurence targets Miami's matchup with Notre Dame. Jimbo of the Week: Jason reaches into the archives to pair Florida quarterback Aaron Philo with Georgia Tech legend Reggie Ball. Another Florida victory, another week of questionable coaching decisions, and another College Football's Last Call. Go Dawgs! As always, this episode is powered by the J. Stein Law Firm -a personal injury law firm in Atlanta, GA - www. jsteinlawfirm.com.

October 29, 20261 hr 7 min

Ep 226: The Six Flags Tragedy with Alan Holcomb: Who Is Responsible and What Is the Value of a Life?

The tragic death of a guest on the Goliath roller coaster at Six Flags Over Georgia has captured national attention and raised difficult questions. How could something like this happen? Who could be held responsible? What happens next? And how do you begin to put a dollar value on a human life? On this episode of Sports ’N Torts , Joshua Stein welcomes back trial lawyer Alan Holcomb of TorHoerman Law for an in-depth conversation about the tragedy and the complicated legal issues that follow. The two also want to extend their sympathies and condolences to the family of Hassan Kariem. Josh and Alan have both spent years representing plaintiffs and defending corporations in serious injury and wrongful death cases. Drawing on that experience, they take listeners behind the scenes of how a case like this might unfold—from the earliest investigation through potential settlement negotiations and trial. They discuss the importance of preserving evidence, the roles of Six Flags and the ride's manufacturers, potential safety failures, government investigations, insurance coverage, arbitration clauses, and the legal significance of proposed safety changes. They also explore what claims may be available to the family and others affected by the incident. But some of the most meaningful moments go beyond the legal questions. Alan shares his experiences meeting with families who have suffered unimaginable losses, the responsibility lawyers have when handling these cases, and why listening matters more than making promises. Josh and Alan also examine Georgia's unique wrongful death law and one of the most difficult questions in the legal profession: How do you determine the full value of someone's life? This is a conversation about accountability, the realities of complex litigation, and the human lives at the center of it all. Josh and Alan are not involved in this case, and their discussion is based on publicly reported information available at the time of recording. The cause of the incident and any potential legal responsibility remain subject to investigation. Our thoughts and condolences are with the family and everyone affected by this tragedy. Show Notes The Six Flags Tragedy: Who Is Responsible and What Is the Value of a Life? Guest: Alan Holcomb | TorHoerman Law The Six Flags Goliath tragedy: What has been publicly reported about the fatal incident, the unanswered questions, and why the investigation will be critical to understanding what happened. Alan Holcomb's perspective: How his experience defending major corporations and representing plaintiffs in catastrophic injury and wrongful death cases shapes his approach to litigation. Representing grieving families: What it's like to meet families following an unimaginable tragedy, the importance of listening, and why good lawyers should never promise a particular outcome. The first steps in a major investigation: Preserving evidence, securing inspection and maintenance records, identifying witnesses, and assembling the right team of experts. Who could be responsible? Examining potential claims involving Six Flags, the roller coaster manufacturer, component manufacturers, inspectors, and other parties involved in operating and maintaining the ride. The role of engineering and expert witnesses: How accident reconstruction, biomechanics, ride engineering, and electronic data may help determine what went wrong. Prior complaints and notice: Why reports of earlier safety concerns, maintenance issues, and ride shutdowns could become important evidence. Safety changes after an accident: Six Flags' announcement concerning additional restraints and how subsequent remedial measures may factor into litigation. Waivers and arbitration clauses: Whether the fine print on an amusement park ticket can affect someone's ability to pursue a claim or have a case heard by a jury. Insurance and settlement strategy: How multiple defendants, insurance policies, excess coverage, and contractual indemnity provisions can complicate negotiations. Georgia wrongful death law: Understanding the distinction between the wrongful death claim and the estate's potential claims, including conscious pain and suffering. What is the value of a human life? How Georgia law approaches the full value of a person's life and how attorneys and juries evaluate losses that cannot truly be measured in dollars. Claims involving other witnesses and injured guests: Exploring the legal challenges surrounding emotional distress claims and the rights of others affected by the incident. The defense perspective: How Six Flags and other potential defendants might evaluate liability, public perception, litigation risks, and the possibility of an early resolution. Preparing a complex case for trial: Why successful trial lawyers must simplify mountains of evidence into a few essential questions that jurors can understand. Lessons for lawyers beyond this case: The importance of preparation, focus groups, understanding what matters to jurors, and maintaining compassion for the people behind every case. A note about this episode: This discussion reflects the speakers' professional opinions based on publicly reported information available at the time of recording. Neither attorney is involved in the matter, and the cause of the incident and any potential legal responsibility remain under investigation. As always, this episode is powered by the J. Stein Law Firm - a personal injury law firm in Atlanta, GA - www.jsteinlawfirm.com

October 28, 202644 min

College Football's Last Call: Week 8 - Three Unbeatens Left. College Football, Get Off My Lawn!

Another week of college football, another round of upsets, and somehow only three undefeated teams remain. This week on College Football's Last Call , Joshua Stein welcomes Laurence Kessler back to the show alongside Jason Ganz and special guest Michael Thompson for a lively discussion about the unpredictable college football season. With Georgia coming off its bye week, the guys turn their attention to the World's Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party, which moves from Jacksonville to Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta this year. They share stories from Georgia–Florida games dating back to 1997, debate whether the Bulldogs are ready to bounce back from their loss to Auburn, and make their predictions for Saturday's rivalry showdown. Around the country, Texas survives Ole Miss, BYU and Tennessee suffer costly losses, and the playoff picture becomes increasingly complicated. The guys debate which conferences will earn the most playoff spots, whether three-loss SEC teams deserve consideration, and which programs are legitimate contenders. Plus, Joshua introduces a new segment, "Old Man, Get Off My Lawn!" Michael leads a spirited conversation about the proposed 24-team playoff, the commercialization of college football, NIL, and whether the traditions that made the sport special are disappearing. Of course, no episode would be complete without Laurence's Sucker Bet of the Week , Jason's Jimbo of the Week , and a hilarious discussion about the possibility of Arch Manning wearing Georgia red and black next season. Four friends, plenty of opinions, a little nostalgia, and another week of college football madness. SHOW NOTES: Another chaotic weekend of college football leaves just three undefeated teams remaining. Georgia's bye week: Getting healthy, regrouping after Auburn, and preparing for the second half of the season. Gunner Stockton's performance and whether Georgia can make another championship run. Georgia–Florida moves to Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta for the first time. Remembering Georgia–Florida trips to Jacksonville, including the Bulldogs' memorable 1997 upset. The World's Smallest Indoor Cocktail Party and the traditions surrounding the rivalry. The rising cost of attending college football games, including ticket prices for Georgia–Florida and COSM. Georgia–Florida predictions, betting lines, and whether the Bulldogs will cover the spread. Week 8 upsets: BYU, Tennessee, Texas Tech, and Ole Miss all suffer losses. Texas defeats Ole Miss: Arch Manning's inconsistency, Steve Sarkisian's coaching, and what the result means for Georgia. Tennessee's loss to South Carolina and a remarkable similarity between several recent SEC finishes. Indiana survives Michigan in overtime, and the Big Ten playoff picture becomes increasingly complicated. The College Football Playoff debate: How many teams will the SEC, Big Ten, Big 12, and ACC send? Can a three-loss SEC team make the 12-team playoff? NEW SEGMENT — Old Man, Get Off My Lawn! Is college football losing its identity? The proposed 24-team playoff, conference championships, bowl games, and the future of college football traditions. Michael Thompson compares college football's changing landscape to LIV Golf and calls on Augusta National's Green Jackets to save tradition. Laurence offers a counterargument: Could an expanded playoff actually make more postseason games meaningful? Sucker Bet of the Week: Laurence reviews his winning picks and identifies Oregon–Northwestern as his next opportunity. Jimbo of the Week: Jason calls out Utah fans following the controversy involving Pat McAfee, while Michael nominates Dabo Swinney and Florida State. Could Arch Manning transfer to Georgia next season? The guys debate the possibility and what it would mean for the Bulldogs. Go Dawgs. Keep Chopping. As always, this episode is powered by the J. Stein Law Firm -a personal injury law firm in Atlanta, GA - www.jsteinlawfirm.com.

October 20, 202640 min

College Football's Last Call: Week 7 - Georgia Falls. Chaos Reigns. 24 Team Playoff Coming. Nothing Makes Sense Anymore.

One week you're celebratig a win in Tuscaloosa. The next, you're watching Auburn celebrate in Athens. Welcome to college football in 2026, where humility is always just one Saturday away. With Laurence Kessler out of town, longtime friend of the show Dr. Shaun Traub joins Josh Stein and Jason Gans to unpack Georgia's stunning loss to Auburn. Did the Bulldogs beat themselves with turnovers, penalties, and questionable coaching decisions? How much blame belongs to Gunner Stockton? And despite the disappointment, is Georgia still a legitimate national championship contender? Fortunately for Georgia fans, misery had plenty of company. Alabama gets hammered by Tennessee, Texas continues its downward spiral, Ole Miss looks dangerous, and top-ranked teams are falling across the country. The guys debate who's actually good, who's overrated, and whether anybody can make sense of this season. Then comes the bigger question: Is college football ruining the very thing that makes it great? With reports of a potential 24-team playoff, the guys discuss ESPN's influence, the possible end of conference championship games, and whether regular-season Saturdays will ever carry the same weight. Plus, Laurence sends in his latest Sucker Bet from afar, Jason names his Jimbo of the Week, and the guys look ahead to another unpredictable weekend of SEC football. Georgia may have fallen, but the season is far from over. On this week's episode: Georgia's stunning loss to Auburn: How turnovers, penalties, missed opportunities, and questionable coaching decisions doomed the Bulldogs in Athens. The Gunner Stockton debate: A rough performance, a costly late fumble, and how close Gunner came to being the hero instead of the scapegoat. Georgia's bigger concerns: Offensive line struggles, an inconsistent running game, defensive breakdowns, special teams issues, and the impact of injuries. Championship hopes still alive: Why the guys aren't hitting the panic button and how Georgia can use the bye week to regroup. Texas and Arch Manning: Another disappointing performance in Austin raises questions about Steve Sarkisian, quarterback development, and the Longhorns' future. Tennessee takes down Alabama: Is the Crimson Tide losing its edge, and has Tennessee established itself as a legitimate SEC contender? Ole Miss, Kentucky, and the SEC gauntlet: The Rebels look dangerous, Kentucky keeps winning, and the expanded conference schedule is taking its toll. Chaos across college football: Miami, Notre Dame, Ohio State, Indiana, and the challenge of figuring out who's actually elite in 2026. The proposed 24-team playoff: More money, more games, potentially no conference championship games, and a serious debate about whether college football is sacrificing its regular season. Sucker Bet of the Week: Laurence sends in his picks from afar, including a surprising selection in the Ole Miss–Texas matchup. Jimbo of the Week: Jason turns his attention to Steve Sarkisian and wonders whether it's time to rename the award. Looking ahead: Georgia gets a much-needed bye week while another unpredictable weekend of SEC football awaits. Keep chopping. Go Dawgs! As aways, this episode is powered by the J. Stein Law Firm - a personal injury law firm in Atlanta, GA - www.jsteinlawfirm.com.

October 15, 202640 min

Ep 223: Full Courts. Open Minds: Jared Armstrong on Pro Basketball, Israel and Bringing Kids Together

EPISODE SUMMARY What happens when five kids from five different backgrounds end up on the same basketball team? Suddenly, their differences matter a lot less than making the next pass, finding the open shot and figuring out how to win together. That's the idea behind what former professional basketball player Jared Armstrong is building. This week on Sports ’N Torts, Joshua Stein sits down with Jared to discuss his unconventional journey to professional basketball in Israel and how he's now using the game to bring young people together, combat hate and create opportunities for the next generation. Jared's path to professional basketball was anything but conventional. An undersized guard who overcame a congenital foot condition, he eventually made his way to Israel, where he navigated the challenges of obtaining citizenship, built a professional career and experienced the events of October 7 firsthand while living in Ashkelon. Today, Jared is focused on growing JAB, an organization that uses basketball to connect young people from different racial, religious and cultural backgrounds. Through JAB Courts, he has helped renovate 18 basketball courts in Israel, creating spaces where kids can play, build friendships and find a positive outlet. One of the most interesting initiatives is JAB's bar and bat mitzvah program, which gives American Jewish teenagers the opportunity to raise money to renovate basketball courts in underserved Israeli communities as part of their service projects. It's a unique way to connect young people across the world while creating something tangible that benefits entire communities. Jared also discusses the importance of supporting youth mental health, using basketball to help kids discover they have more similarities than differences, and involving professional athletes in spreading a message of unity. His inaugural JAB Classic brought together more than 40 former NBA players to compete for a $1 million prize in a tournament designed to combat hate. Josh and Jared also explore the business behind the mission, including fundraising, sponsorships, networking and the challenges of transitioning from professional athlete to entrepreneur. Jared shares how the relationships and reputation he built during his playing career continue to open doors today—a lesson that applies just as much to building a law practice as it does to building a business in sports. It's a conversation about basketball, relationships, opportunity and the power of sports to bring people together. Because sometimes the most important thing you can build through basketball isn't a winning team. It's a community. SHOW NOTES In this episode: From Philadelphia to Professional Basketball in Israel Growing up in a military family and his father's experience at the Pentagon on September 11 Learning basketball from his mother and growing up as an undersized guard Overcoming a congenital foot condition and the challenges of pursuing a professional basketball career His unconventional journey through college basketball and eventually to Israel The realities of playing professional basketball overseas Navigating Israeli citizenship and experiencing October 7 while living in Ashkelon The decision to return to Israel and continue his basketball career Building Courts, Connecting Kids and Combating Hate Transitioning from professional basketball to creating opportunities for the next generation How JAB has helped renovate 18 basketball courts in underserved Israeli communities The JAB bar and bat mitzvah initiative, which allows American Jewish teenagers to fundraise for basketball-court renovations in Israel Creating meaningful service projects that connect young people and communities across the world Bringing Jewish, Black, Muslim, Christian and other young people together through basketball camps and educational programming Why five kids from different backgrounds can discover they have more similarities than differences when they become teammates Using basketball to support youth mental health and provide a positive outlet Recruiting more than 40 former NBA players for the inaugural JAB Classic, featuring a $1 million prize and a mission to combat hate Using the influence of professional athletes to promote unity and understanding Reputation, Relationships and Entrepreneurship Finding a new identity and purpose after professional sports How Jared's reputation and relationships from his playing career have helped him build JAB Why networking, trust and treating people well matter in sports, business and the practice of law Building JAB Courts, JAB Camp and JAB Classic The challenges of fundraising, attracting sponsors and building a sustainable organization Learning from financial setbacks and managing the pressure of an ambitious vision The confidence required to ask people to invest in your ideas Learn More About Jared and JAB JAB Courts: https://jabcourts.org JAB Camp: https://jabcamp.com JAB Classic: https://jabclassic.com As always, this episode is powered by the J. Stein Law Firm - a personal injury law firm in Atlanta, GA - www. jsteinlawfirm.com.

October 14, 202638 min

College Football's Last Call: Week 6 - Tuscaloosa Taken, Texas Shaken and Cousin Will Keeps Winning

EPISODE SUMMARY How 'Bout Them Dawgs! Georgia went into Tuscaloosa, took down Alabama 20–17, and the boys are still celebrating. This week on College Football's Last Call, Josh, Jason and Laurence break down the Bulldogs' statement victory, Gunner Stockton's outstanding performance, Dwight Phillips' coming-out party, and Mike Bobo's masterful game plan. Plus, Kirby Smart's leaked pregame speech has everyone ready to run through a wall. Of course, no Georgia–Alabama game would be complete without some controversy. The boys weigh in on the disputed pass interference no-call, Alabama's complaints, and whether the Crimson Tide's longtime psychological advantage over Georgia is officially gone. Around the SEC, Arch Manning and Texas stumble against Oklahoma, Cousin Will Stein keeps Kentucky rolling with another dramatic victory, Florida continues its downward spiral, and the playoff picture gets increasingly complicated. Jason also reports back from the Texas State Fair, where his spending performance left something to be desired. Looking ahead, the boys preview Georgia–Auburn, debate whether the Dawgs are vulnerable to a letdown, and discuss the mounting injury concerns. Laurence makes his weekly Sucker Bet pick, and Jason hands out a particularly heated Jimbo of the Week. SHOW NOTES On this week's Last Call: Georgia conquers Tuscaloosa: The Bulldogs beat Alabama 20–17, and the boys celebrate finally putting the Alabama demons to rest. "Is it him or is it me?" Kirby Smart's leaked pregame speech, his postgame celebration, and the culture he's built in Athens. Gunner, Peanut and Bobo: Gunner Stockton's precision, Dwight Phillips' breakout performance, and why Mike Bobo deserves more credit. The pass interference controversy: Did Alabama get robbed, or is everyone overlooking the rest of the game? Red River Rivalry: Oklahoma takes down Texas, Arch Manning struggles, and Steve Sarkisian faces growing pressure. Cousin Will does it again: Will Stein and Kentucky pull off another dramatic win, this time against LSU. Florida's free fall: The Gators lose to South Carolina as the SEC pecking order begins to take shape. The national playoff picture: Georgia sits atop the rankings, Oregon falls out of the Top 25, and the boys debate how many SEC and Big Ten teams deserve playoff spots. Georgia–Auburn preview: Is this a potential trap game following the emotional Alabama victory? And can Georgia get healthy before Florida? Sucker Bet of the Week: Lawrence takes Indiana +3.5 against Ohio State. Jimbo of the Week: Jason calls out Alabama fans for their postgame behavior, with Kirk Herbstreit receiving an honorable mention. Powered by the J. Stein Law Firm a personal injurly law firm in Atlanta, Georgia - www. jsteinlawfirm.com.

October 8, 20261 hr 4 min

Ep 221: One Played Football in the SEC. One Played Pro Basketball in Peru. Now They Play Chess Before Trial — Gabe Banks & Sam Weaver

EPISODE SUMMARY What happens when a former SEC football player, prosecutor and preacher goes into business with a Spanish-speaking former semi professional basketball player who also happens to weld and play chess? You get Banks Weaver. Gabe Banks and Sam Weaver join Sports ’N Torts for a wide-ranging conversation about sports, trial law, entrepreneurship, family and the unlikely partnership behind their Atlanta law firm. Gabe takes us back to his days playing football at Vanderbilt, including dropping what should have been a touchdown against South Carolina—then coming back to score on a 65-yard reverse—and what those experiences taught him about responding when things go wrong. Sam shares his own athletic résumé, including playing basketball while living in Peru and somehow ending up on an intramural basketball team at UGA with Nick Chubb and Malcolm Parrish. The conversation moves from sports to the courtroom, where Gabe and Sam explain their very different trial styles, why they literally play chess while preparing cases, and how those differences have become one of the strengths of their partnership. Gabe also shares stories from his years prosecuting gangs and murders in Fulton County, the threats that came with the job, why he sometimes handed defendants Starbursts during trial, and how becoming a criminal defense lawyer later changed some of his perspective on prosecution. We also get into Sam's unusual welding background and how it became useful in a wrongful-death case involving a defective MARTA guardrail, the influence both men's fathers had on their careers, starting a law firm while their wives were pregnant, managing employees, Gabe opening a pizza restaurant with his daughter, and some of the unexpected challenges that come with owning a business. And somehow we finish with Gerry DiNardo eating a dog biscuit before Vanderbilt played Georgia—and a conversation about authenticity, leadership and why jurors can tell when a trial lawyer is trying to be someone they're not. A fun conversation with two very different lawyers who genuinely enjoy working together—and have plenty of stories to tell. SHOW NOTES Gabe Banks and Sam Weaver — Banks Weaver Gabe Banks and Sam Weaver join Sports ’N Torts together for a conversation about sports, law, business, family and how two lawyers with very different backgrounds and personalities built Banks Weaver. In this episode: How Gabe and Sam met and decided to start Banks Weaver Starting a law firm while both of their wives were pregnant Gabe's Vanderbilt football career and playing in the SEC Dropping a touchdown against South Carolina—and scoring on a 65-yard reverse shortly afterward The lessons Gabe still takes from football into trials and conversations with clients Sam's time living in Peru and his brief career as a “professional” basketball player A point guard smoking a cigarette immediately before taking the court How Sam ended up playing intramural basketball at UGA with Nick Chubb and Malcolm Parrish Gabe's perspective on NIL and how college football has changed since his playing days Sam's welding background and the giant metal deer he left behind at UGA How welding knowledge later became relevant in a MARTA wrongful-death case involving a defective guardrail Gabe and Sam's very different courtroom styles Why the two literally play chess while preparing cases for trial Gabe's years prosecuting gangs and murders in Fulton County Receiving threats as a gang prosecutor The International Robbing Crew case Why Gabe handed defendants Starbursts during trial How moving from prosecution to criminal defense changed Gabe's perspective The pressure of representing someone you believe is innocent The influence of Gabe's father on his life, confidence and career Sam's relationship with his father and having an experienced lawyer to call for advice How Gabe and Sam divide responsibilities at Banks Weaver Why trust is the foundation of their partnership Gabe's newest business venture with his daughter Nicole Opening a Donatos pizza restaurant and dealing with an electrical outage just before opening The challenges nobody warns you about when you own a business Managing employees and learning when to make difficult decisions A six-figure trust-account fraud problem they never learned about in law school Gerry DiNardo, Vanderbilt football and eating dog biscuits before playing Georgia Kirby Smart, leadership and knowing which buttons to push Why authenticity matters in coaching, business and the courtroom The one thing a trial lawyer can never afford to lose with a jury: credibility As always, this episode is powered by the J. Stein Law Firm - a personal injury law firm in Atlanta, GA - www.jsteinlawfirm.com.

October 6, 202636 min

College Football's Last Call: Week 5 – Gunner’s Rolling, Tuscaloosa’s Calling & SEC Reality Checks

EPISODE SUMMARY Georgia is 5–0, Gunner Stockton is gaining confidence, and a trip to Tuscaloosa is up next. Josh Stein, Laurence Kessler and Jason Ganz break down the Bulldogs’ win over Vanderbilt, including Gunner’s sharp passing, Dwight Phillips Jr.’s emerging role, Ellis Robinson’s standout interception and the concerns Georgia needs to address before facing Alabama. Around the SEC, last week’s darlings get a reality check as Missouri rolls Florida and Alabama overwhelms Mississippi State. The guys also debate South Carolina’s latest collapse, give “cousin” Will Stein his flowers and marvel at Ohio State’s Jeremiah Smith. Then it’s time for Georgia–Alabama: Gunner’s experience against Keelon Russell’s talent, the challenge of containing a mobile quarterback, injury questions and three predictions favoring the Dawgs. Plus, Laurence’s latest Sucker Bet, Jason’s Jimbo of the Week, a Texas State Fair spending forecast and bonus Braves postseason talk as Atlanta takes its series with the Dodgers back to Truist Park. SHOW NOTES This week on College Football Last Call: • Georgia–Vanderbilt recap: Gunner Stockton’s precision, the offense spreading the ball around and a defense that tightened up after halftime. • Emerging playmakers: Dwight “Peanut” Phillips Jr. in space, Ellis Robinson’s interception and the value of keeping Georgia’s deep roster involved. • Questions before Tuscaloosa: Running-back health, injuries at receiver and finishing plays against a mobile quarterback. • SEC reality checks: Missouri brings Florida back down to earth, while Alabama ends Mississippi State’s moment in the spotlight. • “Cousin” Will Stein gets his flowers: Kentucky goes for two and wins, while the guys question where Shane Beamer and South Carolina go from here. • National spotlight: Miami handles Clemson, Jeremiah Smith strengthens his Heisman case and Walton’s Jeremy Hecklinski gets a shoutout. • Georgia–Alabama preview: Gunner Stockton versus Keelon Russell, the potential impact of weather, Chris Cole’s role and why all three hosts like Georgia. • Sucker Bet: Laurence puts South Carolina on his no-bet list and follows the SEC’s latest hype cycle to Texas A&M–Missouri. • Jimbo of the Week: Jason takes aim at Jim Mora’s handling of his defensive coordinator. • Texas State Fair preview: Jason sets a spending line—and promises receipts. • Bonus Braves talk: The atmosphere at Truist Park, the pitching setup against Los Angeles and why Atlanta needs its stars to deliver. College Football Last Call is part of Sports ’N Torts, hosted by Josh Stein with Laurence Kessler and Jason Ganz, and powered by J. Stein Law Firm - a personal injury law firm in Atlanta, GA - www.jsteinlawfirm.com.

October 1, 20261 hr 3 min

Ep 219: Triumph or Tuition: Gino Brogdon, Jr. on 2,000 Mediations, Reading People & the Value of Reps

Gino Brogdon Jr. is an Atlanta trial lawyer, award-winning mediator and entrepreneur who has spent his career learning how people think, negotiate and make difficult decisions. In this episode of Sports ’N Torts, Gino joins Josh for a wide-ranging conversation about the experiences that shaped his career and the lessons he has learned from more than 2,000 mediations. Gino shares the unconventional path that helped him launch his own law firm—including working as a personal trainer before and after his day job and saving the $15,000 he earned to start his practice. That story leads to one of the episode's central ideas, advice passed down from one of his wife's mentors: “It's either triumph or tuition.” You either succeed, or you pay for an experience that teaches you something valuable. Josh and Gino also dig into the importance of relationships and trust in the practice of law, why lawyers may have lost some of the ability to simply pick up the phone and talk to each other, and what thousands of mediations have taught Gino about reading people, negotiation, credibility and human behavior. The conversation gets personal as Gino discusses how becoming a father changed the way he experiences emotionally difficult cases, why authenticity matters when working with people going through tragedy, and why even his trademark three-piece suits are part of showing people that he takes their case seriously. Along the way, Josh and Gino talk AI, psychology, trial experience, mediation strategy, brackets, the value of reps, the importance of understanding how your actions are perceived by the other side—and why sometimes the best education comes from the things that don't go according to plan. Show Notes Why Gino's mediation calendar stays so busy The importance of following up after mediation—even when the case doesn't settle that day Why lawyers actually answer the phone when Gino calls Building relationships through the small touchpoints that happen along the way Why trust between lawyers has changed—and whether that has contributed to the rise of mediation The lost art of simply picking up the phone and calling opposing counsel Why having lunch with the lawyer on the other side can change the entire tone of a case Why Gino views mediation as a process rather than a single day Mediation briefs vs. a candid pre-mediation phone call What tone and conversation reveal that a written brief never will How Gino uses AI to prepare for mediations Why he doesn't want AI taking over the part of mediation he loves most More than 2,000 mediations and the value of reps, intuition and professional judgment Gino's path through Morehouse, UGA Law, the U.S. Attorney's Office, Judge Steve Jones, Barnes Law Group and the Cochran Firm The advantage of trying different areas of law early in your career Getting thrown into trials as a young lawyer and learning about juries, people and value Asking for more money—and being given the opportunity to earn it by trying cases Why experience can be valuable even when the dollars aren't “It's either triumph or tuition.” Working as a personal trainer before and after his day job Saving roughly $15,000 from personal training and using it to start his own law firm What personal training taught Gino about motivation, positivity and working with people Whether lawyers sometimes need to show emotion and anger so their clients know they're fighting for them Why posturing isn't necessarily a dirty word Zoom vs. in-person mediation The value of simply walking into the other room, shaking someone's hand and showing some humanity How failing to do that can change the entire temperature of a mediation Gino's psychology background and lifelong interest in understanding people What still makes Gino nervous after thousands of mediations How becoming a father changed the way he experiences cases involving parents who have lost children Therapy, emotion and why genuine empathy can't be manufactured The mediator's role in carrying some of the emotional weight of a case Sometimes being the “bad guy” really means giving someone an honest reality check Plaintiffs, adjusters and the different challenges each brings to negotiation Why “it's not about the money” usually means it's at least a little bit about the money Harvard negotiation training and what Gino took from the experience What to do when a lawyer's negotiating strategy is actively working against the goal Helping lawyers understand how their actions are being perceived in the other room Why good mediation is about much more than carrying numbers back and forth Reading body language, reactions and the temperature in the other room What negotiating moves communicate even when nobody says it out loud Brackets, hypotheticals and the power of trusting a mediator with information that can't be shared How early Gino can identify the range where a case should settle—and why that doesn't mean it actually will And finally: why Gino Brogdon is always the best-dressed guy in the room The three-piece suits, presentation and why dressing for the occasion is another way of telling the people in the room: I'm taking this seriously As always, this episode is powered by the J. Stein Law Firm - a personal injury law firm in Atlanta, GA - www.jsteinlawfirm.com.