THE PRACTICE PODCAST

Hosted by BAST AMRON

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220

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Oct 2026

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About the show

The Practice Podcast series was created and is hosted by our partners Brett Amron and Jeffrey Bast. These Podcast episodes are intended to be a resource to help business leaders and other lawyers without all the complicated lawyer language. Check us out!

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October 28, 2026Episode 22031 min

220. The Human Side of AI: Evan Nierman on Authentic Communication and the Future of PR

In Episode 220 of The Practice Podcast , Jeff Bast and Brett Amron welcome back Evan Nierman , founder and CEO of Red Banyan , a strategic communications firm specializing in crisis management and public relations. Evan joins the conversation to discuss the importance of effective communication, the growing influence of artificial intelligence, and how businesses and professionals can protect and strengthen their reputations in an increasingly digital world. Drawing on more than 25 years of experience in crisis and reputation management, Evan shares how he approaches high-profile public relations challenges and the communication strategies that can shape public perception. He discusses the importance of preparation, credibility, and delivering a clear message, offering insight into how professionals navigate difficult questions and public scrutiny. Jeff and Brett also explore the differences between media interviews and legal proceedings, particularly when it comes to asking questions, managing responses, and maintaining control of a conversation. The discussion turns to artificial intelligence and what Evan describes as another kind of AI: authentic interaction . As technology continues to change how people communicate, Evan emphasizes the importance of maintaining genuine human connections. He reflects on how AI-generated content, automated messages, and deepfake technology are making it increasingly difficult to distinguish what is real, and why personal communication, trust, and authenticity may become even more valuable in business and everyday life. Evan also examines how artificial intelligence is changing the way individuals and businesses are discovered online. As more people turn to AI platforms for recommendations and information, he explains why traditional search engine optimization alone may no longer be enough. He discusses the growing importance of public relations, earned media, and third-party credibility in shaping how AI platforms present businesses and professionals. Jeff and Brett share how Bast Amron has begun receiving inquiries from prospective clients who discovered the firm through AI searches, highlighting the changing relationship between online visibility, reputation, and business development. Looking ahead, Evan encourages professionals to invest in both their digital presence and their personal relationships. While AI presents new opportunities for efficiency and growth, he emphasizes that meaningful communication and human connection remain essential to building trust, strengthening reputations, and developing lasting professional relationships. Key Topics: Crisis management and navigating public relations challenges Effective communication and media interview strategies The importance of preparation, credibility, and reputation Artificial intelligence and the value of authentic interaction Deepfakes, misinformation, and the challenges of digital trust How AI is changing online search and business visibility The growing role of public relations and third-party credibility AI search optimization, earned media, and business development Maintaining meaningful human connections in an increasingly automated world Streaming on YouTube , Spotify , Amazon Music , and Apple Podcasts . We are also in the top ten percent of listened-to podcasts globally .

October 15, 2026Episode 21929 min

219. Her Path in Law: Amanda Vasquez on Bankruptcy, Clerking, and Advocacy

In Episode 219 of The Practice Podcast , Jeff Bast and Brett Amron welcome Bast Amron Attorney Amanda Vasquez to discuss her path to the legal profession, her experience as a bankruptcy clerk, and the lessons she learned while transitioning from a judicial clerkship to private practice. Amanda shares how an early interest in advocacy helped shape her decision to pursue law. Growing up, she often helped communicate for her mother, who was learning English, and her younger brother, who is deaf. When her mother filed for personal bankruptcy, Amanda accompanied her to meetings with her attorney and saw firsthand the challenges of navigating an unfamiliar legal system. Those experiences helped spark her interest in the law and the importance of understanding and advocating for others. After attending Florida State University College of Law, Amanda pursued a judicial clerkship, applying to more than 90 positions before joining the Honorable Joshua Searcy in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Eastern District of Texas. She reflects on the persistence that led to that opportunity and the lessons she carried from chambers into private practice. Now approaching one year at Bast Amron, Amanda discusses adjusting from neutrality to advocacy and navigating client needs, deadlines, competing priorities, and the communication required across different professional relationships. Amanda also shares advice for law students and young lawyers: pursue opportunities even when the path is unfamiliar and do not count yourself out before trying. Looking ahead, she hopes to continue building her skills and experience, earn greater autonomy in her practice, and work toward independently handling responsibilities such as hearings and depositions. Key Topics: Amanda Vasquez’s path to the legal profession Early experiences with communication and advocacy How bankruptcy first became personal to her Pursuing a judicial clerkship Lessons from clerking in the Eastern District of Texas Transitioning from neutrality to advocacy Managing the demands of private practice Building skills and taking on greater responsibility Streaming on YouTube, Spotify , Amazon Music , and Apple Podcasts . We are also in the top ten percent of listened-to podcasts globally .

September 23, 2026Episode 21830 min

218. One Year In: Thomas Santi on Litigation, Learning, and Opportunity

In Episode 218 of The Practice Podcast , Jeff Bast and Brett Amron welcome Bast Amron attorney Thomas Santi for a conversation about his path to the legal profession, his first year as an attorney, and the lessons he has learned transitioning from law school to the practice of commercial litigation and insolvency law. Thomas shares how an early interest in technology, coding, and science initially led him to consider several different career paths. Ultimately inspired by his father and godfather, he pursued law, completing college at 20 and graduating from law school at 23. A bankruptcy course during law school eventually led to an introduction to Bast Amron and an opportunity to join the firm as a law clerk. Although Thomas initially expected to pursue transactional work and was skeptical about litigation, his experience at Bast Amron changed his perspective. Now one year into practice, he reflects on discovering that he genuinely enjoys litigation and discusses some of its less visible realities, from the significant role of discovery to the communication and interpersonal skills required to work effectively with clients, opposing counsel, judges, and other professionals. Thomas also shares advice for law students and young lawyers: work hard, stay open to opportunities, and do not be too quick to say no. His own path demonstrates how an unexpected class, introduction, or professional opportunity can shape a career in ways you may not anticipate. Key Topics: Thomas Santi’s path from coding and technology to law Completing college and law school on an accelerated path How a bankruptcy course led him to Bast Amron Transitioning from law clerk to attorney Lessons from his first year in litigation Discovery and the realities of litigation practice Communication and interpersonal skills for young lawyers Staying open to unexpected career opportunities Streaming on YouTube, Spotify , Amazon Music , and Apple Podcasts . We are also in the top ten percent of listened-to podcasts globally .

September 9, 2026Episode 21726 min

217. Case by Case: Jon David Huffman on Trials, Relationships, and Growth

In Episode 217 of The Practice Podcast , Jeff Bast and Brett Amron welcome Jon David Huffman , Managing Partner and trial attorney at Poole Huffman , for a conversation about complex business litigation, trial advocacy, law firm growth, relationship-driven business development, and investing in the next generation of lawyers. Jon David shares the experiences that led him to pursue a career in law and complex business litigation. After college, he worked alongside his father in the family’s real estate business before a lawyer and mentor encouraged him to consider law school. His path was also shaped by watching his family navigate a decade-long business dispute, giving him an early understanding of how personal and stressful business litigation can become. The conversation explores Jon David’s passion for trial work, particularly cross-examination and the process of uncovering the truth through advocacy. He discusses his belief in the jury system and his work handling complex, high-stakes disputes, including business litigation, fraud, RICO, and bankruptcy-related matters. Jon David also shares how Poole Huffman has grown from a small practice into a team of approximately 40 professionals and the role that consistency and relationships have played in that growth. He explains his approach to business development, emphasizing genuine friendships, strong referral relationships, and finding ways to add value rather than viewing business development as transactional. As Poole Huffman continues to grow, Jon David discusses the importance of investing in people through leadership, mentorship, and professional development. He shares how the firm has expanded mentorship beyond technical legal skills and why recognizing lawyers’ individual strengths can help create opportunities for continued growth and success. Key Topics: Jon David Huffman’s path to the legal profession How personal experience with business litigation shaped his career Trial advocacy, cross-examination, and the jury system Building and growing a litigation-focused law firm Relationship-driven business development and referrals Leadership, mentorship, and professional development Recruiting and retaining talent as a law firm grows Recognizing and developing lawyers’ individual strengths Streaming on YouTube, Spotify , Amazon Music , and Apple Podcasts . We are also in the top ten percent of listened-to podcasts globally .

August 26, 2026Episode 21637 min

216. Beyond the Practice: Chad Volkert on Career, Leadership, and AI

In Episode 216 of The Practice Podcast , Jeff Bast and Brett Amron welcome Chad Volkert , Global C-Suite Leader and Managing Director at Protiviti , for a conversation about career growth, leadership, the evolution of the legal services industry, and how artificial intelligence is reshaping the future of work. Chad shares his professional journey, beginning with his decision early in his career to pursue opportunities beyond traditional legal practice. After briefly working in litigation, he transitioned into legal staffing and recruiting, becoming one of the first professionals hired to help build Robert Half’s legal staffing business. Over the course of his career, he has built and led high-performing teams across more than 30 offices and 2,000 professionals while helping organizations navigate growth, change, and new opportunities. The conversation explores the evolution of alternative legal services and how technological and legal industry changes have created new opportunities for lawyers and other professionals beyond traditional practice. Chad also shares his perspective on career development, encouraging professionals to look beyond compensation and titles to consider purpose, long-term growth, and work that is both challenging and fulfilling. Chad also discusses the growing influence of artificial intelligence in the workplace and why organizations should view AI as an opportunity for growth rather than merely a tool to reduce headcount. He explains the importance of AI governance, collaboration across legal, operations, technology, and security, and investing in training and upskilling employees as technology continues to evolve. Throughout the episode, Chad reinforces a central idea that has shaped his own career and approach to leadership: embracing change and technology is important, but human connection remains essential. As AI transforms the way people work, he believes communication, problem-solving, trust, and the ability to build meaningful relationships will become even more valuable. Key Topics: • Chad Volkert’s career evolution from law to staffing and consulting • The growth and evolution of alternative legal services • Finding purpose and fulfillment in your career • Career growth beyond compensation and titles • Artificial intelligence and the future of work • AI governance and responsible implementation • Upskilling employees as technology evolves • The importance of communication, problem-solving, and human connection Streaming on YouTube, Spotify , Amazon Music , and Apple Podcasts . We are also in the top ten percent of listened-to podcasts globally .

August 5, 2026Episode 21530 min

215. Leading Brands Through Curiosity and Connection with Glory Alcántara

In Episode 215 of The Practice Podcast , Jeff Bast and Brett Amron welcome Glory Alcántara , Director of Multicultural Marketing at General Mills , for an engaging conversation about branding, leadership, innovation, and the power of human connection. Glory shares her journey from growing up in the Dominican Republic to building a successful career at General Mills, where she has spent nearly two decades leading multicultural marketing initiatives for iconic brands including Cheerios, Pillsbury, and Nature Valley. Along the way, she reflects on embracing change, following curiosity, and making the transition from research and development into marketing. The conversation explores how the strongest brands are built by putting people first. Glory discusses the importance of understanding consumers, creating culturally authentic messaging, and developing meaningful connections that inspire trust and long-term brand loyalty. She also shares how curiosity, adaptability, and emerging technologies like artificial intelligence are reshaping the future of marketing. Beyond brand strategy, Glory introduces her "Three P's" framework of Performance, Personal Brand, and People as a practical approach to professional growth. She explains how intentional career development, strong relationships, and continuous learning have shaped both her leadership philosophy and her success. Throughout the episode, Glory reinforces a central idea that has guided her career: The most successful brands and the strongest leaders are those who stay curious, embrace change, and put people at the center of every decision. Key Topics: • Glory Alcántara's career journey and leadership philosophy • Consumer-first marketing and brand strategy • Multicultural marketing and authentic storytelling • Artificial intelligence and the future of marketing • The "Three P's" framework for professional growth • Personal branding and leadership development • Curiosity, connection, and relationship building Streaming on YouTube, Spotify , Amazon Music , and Apple Podcasts . We are also in the top ten percent of listened-to podcasts globally .

July 29, 2026Episode 21425 min

214. Building a Better Miami with Patrice Gillespie Smith

In Episode 214 of The Practice Podcast , Jeff Bast and Brett Amron welcome Patrice Gillespie Smith , President and Chief Operating Officer of The Underline Miami , for an inspiring conversation about urban planning, community development, leadership, and the creation of public spaces that bring people together. Patrice shares her journey from growing up in Ohio to building a career in transportation, urban planning, and public service before ultimately helping lead one of Miami's most transformative civic projects. Drawing on leadership experiences across the country, she discusses how thoughtful planning can strengthen communities, improve quality of life, and shape the future of growing cities. The conversation explores the vision behind The Underline, Miami's 10-mile linear park and multimodal trail that is redefining how residents experience the city. Patrice explains how founder Meg Daly's idea, inspired by a bicycle accident, evolved into a project that connects neighborhoods, encourages active transportation, expands green space, and creates opportunities for people to gather, exercise, and engage with their community. Patrice also discusses how The Underline extends beyond infrastructure by serving as a catalyst for community impact. From free public programming and volunteer opportunities to partnerships that create employment and housing opportunities for individuals experiencing homelessness, she explains how collaboration and thoughtful design can address real challenges while creating lasting benefits for the people who call Miami home. Throughout the episode, Patrice reinforces a central idea that has guided both her career and The Underline's mission: building stronger cities begins with investing in people, creating meaningful connections, and designing places where communities can thrive. Key Topics: Patrice Gillespie Smith's career in urban planning and public leadership The vision and evolution of The Underline Community-focused urban design Multimodal transportation and pedestrian safety Expanding green space in Miami Public engagement and community programming Partnerships addressing homelessness through workforce development Creating healthier, more connected communities Streaming on YouTube, Spotify , Amazon Music , and Apple Podcasts . We are also in the top ten percent of listened-to podcasts globally .

July 15, 2026Episode 2131 hr 2 min

213. Leading Through Disruption: AI, Innovation & the Future of Work

In this special episode of The Practice Podcast , we bring you a featured panel from Bast Amron ‘s 8th Annual Business Advantage Forum , moderated by Peter Klock . Business leaders from consumer goods, legal consulting, and private equity explore how organizations can successfully navigate rapid technological change while embracing artificial intelligence, innovation, and the evolving future of work. Joining the discussion are Glory Alcantara , Director of Multicultural Marketing at General Mills ; Chad Volkert , Global C-suite Leader and Managing Director at Protiviti ; and Jeff Evans , President of Volta Global . Together, they share practical insights on how organizations can foster innovation, implement AI responsibly, and prepare their teams to thrive during periods of constant transformation. The conversation examines how artificial intelligence is reshaping leadership, workforce development, and business strategy. Rather than viewing AI as a replacement for people, the panel discusses how organizations can leverage technology to eliminate repetitive tasks, empower employees, strengthen decision-making, and create more time for creativity, critical thinking, and innovation. The panel also explores the importance of psychological safety, transparent leadership, AI governance, and employee upskilling. Throughout the discussion, the speakers emphasize that successful AI adoption depends not only on implementing the right technology, but also on building cultures rooted in trust, continuous learning, and purposeful leadership. Audience questions expand the discussion into topics including AI’s impact on the legal profession, the future of professional services, data privacy, protecting competitive advantages, emerging leadership roles, and balancing technological innovation with authentic human connection. Key Topics: Leading organizations through AI-driven disruption Building a culture of innovation and psychological safety AI governance, data privacy, and responsible adoption Upskilling employees for the future of work Human-centered leadership in a rapidly evolving workplace AI’s impact on legal and professional services Protecting competitive advantage in an AI-driven economy Practical strategies for implementing AI across organizations Tune in for an engaging discussion on leadership, artificial intelligence, and how organizations can embrace innovation while preparing for the future of work. Streaming now on YouTube, Spotify , Amazon Music , and Apple Podcasts . We are also in the top ten percent of listened-to podcasts globally .

July 8, 2026Episode 21259 min

212. Sustainability as Strategy — Legal Responsibility & Business Advantage

In this special episode of The Practice Podcast , we bring you a featured panel from Bast Amron's 8th Annual Business Advantage Forum , moderated by Jeff Bast . Industry leaders from communications, technology, and nonprofit leadership explore how sustainability has evolved from a corporate initiative into a long-term business strategy that strengthens organizations, communities, and reputations. Joining the discussion are Evan Nierman , Founder and CEO of Red Banyan ; Patrice Gillespie-Smith , President and COO of Friends of The Underline ; and Felipe Jaramillo , Head of Commercial Legal Americas GTM at Stripe . Together, they share practical insights on how organizations can balance purpose with profitability while remaining adaptable in an ever-changing business landscape. The conversation examines sustainability from multiple perspectives, including environmental responsibility, corporate reputation, stakeholder expectations, technology, and organizational culture. Rather than viewing sustainability solely through the lens of environmental initiatives, the panel discusses how businesses can create lasting value by investing in employees, communities, innovation, and authentic leadership. The panel also explores how organizations can effectively communicate their impact, why reputation has become one of a company's most valuable assets, and how business leaders can build cultures rooted in trust, transparency, and clearly defined values. Throughout the discussion, the speakers emphasize that meaningful leadership starts with purpose and is sustained through consistent action. Audience questions expand the discussion into topics including public-private partnerships, evolving political and regulatory landscapes, the role of technology and AI in the workplace, social responsibility, and maintaining organizational values during times of change. Key Topics: Sustainability as a long-term business strategy Building trust through corporate reputation Leadership, culture, and organizational values Public-private partnerships and community impact Technology, AI, and the future of work Innovation as a driver of sustainable growth Corporate social responsibility and authentic storytelling Navigating change while staying true to your mission Tune in for an engaging discussion on leadership, innovation, and how organizations can create meaningful impact while building stronger, more resilient businesses. Streaming now on YouTube, Spotify , Amazon Music , and Apple Podcasts . We are also in the top ten percent of listened-to podcasts globally .

July 1, 2026Episode 21132 min

211. From Advocate to Neutral: Resolving Conflict Through Empathy, Experience, and Trust

In Episode 211 of The Practice Podcast , Jeff Bast and Brett Amron welcome Edward Montoya , Founder of Montoya Law and mediator/arbitrator with BridgePoint ADR , for a thoughtful conversation about litigation, mediation, emotional intelligence, and the human side of conflict resolution. Ed shares his journey from growing up in New York and South Florida to building a distinguished litigation practice handling aviation disasters, catastrophic injury, wrongful death, product liability, and complex commercial disputes. Inspired by early exposure to the legal profession and a passion for storytelling, he developed a career dedicated to helping clients through some of life's most difficult challenges. The conversation explores Ed's decades of experience representing families in high-stakes cases and how those experiences shaped his understanding of justice, loss, and advocacy. He reflects on the responsibility lawyers carry when representing individuals facing tragedy and the importance of building genuine human connections with clients. Ed also discusses his transition from trial lawyer to mediator and arbitrator, explaining how his interest in conflict resolution led him to pursue advanced studies focused on negotiation, psychology, and human behavior. His goal shifted from simply litigating disputes to helping parties better understand risk, evaluate options, and reach meaningful resolutions. In a supplemental discussion following the recording, Ed highlights the qualities he believes distinguish effective mediators. He emphasizes the importance of persistence, collaboration, preparation, and ongoing communication. By engaging with counsel before mediation, maintaining momentum afterward, and building trust throughout the process, he works to help parties move cases toward resolution even after formal mediation sessions conclude. Throughout the episode, Ed reinforces a central principle that has guided his career: understanding people is often the key to resolving conflict. Whether serving as an advocate, mediator, or arbitrator, empathy, respect, and active listening remain essential tools for helping parties move forward. Key Topics: · Building a career in complex litigation · Aviation disasters, catastrophic injury, and product liability matters · The role of empathy in advocacy and dispute resolution · Transitioning from trial lawyer to mediator · Emotional intelligence in mediation · Advanced training in negotiation and conflict resolution · Building trust before, during, and after mediation · Helping parties find practical solutions to difficult disputes · The importance of persistence and follow-through in achieving settlements Streaming on YouTube, Spotify , Amazon Music , and Apple Podcasts . We are also in the top ten percent of listened-to podcasts globally .