THE PRACTICE PODCAST

Hosted by BAST AMRON

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215

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Aug 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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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 buildingStreaming 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 leadershipThe vision and evolution of The UnderlineCommunity-focused urban designMultimodal transportation and pedestrian safetyExpanding green space in MiamiPublic engagement and community programmingPartnerships addressing homelessness through workforce developmentCreating healthier, more connected communitiesStreaming 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 disruptionBuilding a culture of innovation and psychological safetyAI governance, data privacy, and responsible adoptionUpskilling employees for the future of workHuman-centered leadership in a rapidly evolving workplaceAI’s impact on legal and professional servicesProtecting competitive advantage in an AI-driven economyPractical strategies for implementing AI across organizationsTune 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 settlementsStreaming on YouTube, Spotify, Amazon Music, and Apple Podcasts. We are also in the top ten percent of listened-to podcasts globally.

June 17, 2026Episode 21031 min

210. From the Dugout to the Boardroom: Building a Law Firm Through Faith and Relationships

In Episode 210 of The Practice Podcast, Jeff Bast and Brett Amron welcome Russ Brown, Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Brown Fox PLLC, for a conversation about resilience, entrepreneurship, leadership, and the relationships that fuel long-term success.Russ shares his unconventional path to the legal profession, from playing collegiate baseball and coaching high school athletes to building one of the nation’s fastest-growing law firms. Along the way, he reflects on the lessons learned from setbacks, the importance of personal accountability, and how early experiences shaped his leadership philosophy.The discussion explores the founding of Brown Fox during the Great Recession, the role relationships played in the firm’s early growth, and how a commitment to integrity, talent, and culture continues to drive its success today. Russ offers valuable insights into entrepreneurship, law firm growth, recruiting, and creating an environment where attorneys can thrive.Russ also discusses how his faith inspired him to use his legal career as a vehicle for service, leading to opportunities to train lawyers and support justice initiatives around the world, including work in India, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, Kenya, and El Salvador.Throughout the episode, one theme remains constant: success is built on relationships. Whether serving clients, mentoring attorneys, growing a business, or supporting communities, meaningful connections remain at the heart of lasting impact.Key Topics:Lessons learned from athletics and leadershipBuilding Brown Fox during the Great RecessionEntrepreneurship and law firm growthBusiness development through relationshipsRecruiting and developing legal talentFaith, purpose, and service through the practice of lawInternational justice and pro bono workCreating a culture that attracts and retains great peopleTune in for an inspiring conversation about leadership, perseverance, and building something bigger than yourself.Streaming on YouTube, Spotify, Amazon Music, and Apple Podcasts. We are also in the top ten percent of listened-to podcasts globally.

June 10, 2026Episode 20932 min

209. Dancing Through Leadership: Public Service, Purpose, and Legacy with Elaine Fitch

In Episode 209 of The Practice Podcast, Jeff Bast and Brett Amron welcome Elaine Fitch, Managing Partner of Kalijarvi, Chuzi, Newman & Fitch (KCNF), for a conversation about purpose-driven lawyering, workplace civil rights, firm leadership, and the importance of building something that lasts. Elaine shares her journey from studying women's rights and social justice to becoming one of the nation's leading advocates for federal employees and workplace civil rights. Her career has been defined by a commitment to public service, helping employees navigate discrimination, retaliation, whistleblower claims, and security clearance matters. The discussion explores the firm's work representing federal employees impacted by recent government workforce reductions and challenges facing public servants whose careers have been disrupted by changing political priorities. Elaine offers a firsthand perspective on the human impact behind the headlines and the ongoing efforts to protect employee rights. The conversation also turns to law firm leadership, succession planning, and the responsibility firm leaders have to prepare the next generation. Elaine shares lessons learned from leading a majority women-owned firm with a 50-year legacy and discusses the importance of mentorship, culture, and thoughtful transition planning. Throughout the episode, Elaine emphasizes the value of following your passion, serving your community, and building meaningful relationships—both in the practice of law and in life. Key Topics:Advocating for federal employees and workplace civil rights The impact of government workforce reductions Public service and employee protections Law firm leadership and succession planning Building a purpose-driven legal career The power of mentorship and community involvement Business development through authentic relationships 🎧 Tune in for an inspiring conversation about leadership, advocacy, and creating a lasting impact—both inside and outside the courtroom. Streaming on YouTube, Spotify, Amazon Music, and Apple Podcasts. We are also in the top ten percent of listened-to podcasts globally.

June 3, 2026Episode 20834 min

208. Beyond the Courtroom: Navigating Divorce, Relationships, and Difficult Conversations with Jacqueline Newman

In Episode 208 of The Practice Podcast, Jeff Bast and Brett Amron sit down with matrimonial attorney Jacqueline Newman, Managing Partner of Berkman Bottger Newman & Schein, LLP, to discuss divorce, relationships, parenting, and the power of communication. Jacqueline shares how she knew from an early age that family law was her calling and reflects on a career dedicated to helping individuals and families navigate some of life's most challenging transitions. From high-net-worth divorces and custody matters to prenuptial agreements and mediation, she offers practical insight into the emotional and financial realities of divorce. The conversation explores why many prospective clients are encouraged to pause before filing for divorce, how parents can better protect their children during the process, and why effective communication is often the key to healthier relationships. Jacqueline also challenges common misconceptions about prenuptial agreements, explaining how they can foster transparency and strengthen marriages before problems arise. The episode concludes with a discussion on law firm leadership, recruiting, and building a workplace culture that attracts and retains top talent. Key Topics:The realities of divorce and family law Protecting children during family transitions The importance of communication in relationships Why some clients are advised not to divorce—yet The value of prenuptial agreements Law firm culture, leadership, and recruitingTune in for an insightful conversation about relationships, resilience, and helping people move forward through life's most difficult transitions. Streaming on YouTube, Spotify, Amazon Music, and Apple Podcasts. We are also in the top ten percent of listened-to podcasts globally.

April 29, 2026Episode 20731 min

207: Legend Series – Leadership, Litigation, And Longevity with Kendall Coffey

In this Legend Series installment of The Practice Podcast, Jeffrey P. Bast and Brett M. Amron sit down with Kendall Coffey, one of South Florida’s most respected trial lawyers and a former U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Florida.This conversation goes beyond a traditional career retrospective. It is a candid, experience-driven discussion on what actually builds a lasting legal career: adaptability, trial experience, discipline, and a relentless commitment to doing the work the right way.From an unexpected pivot away from journalism to leading one of the nation’s most prominent U.S. Attorney’s Offices, Coffey shares the inflection points that shaped his career and the practical lessons that continue to apply in today’s legal market.Key TakeawaysCareers are built through pivots, not straight linesEarly setbacks often create better long-term positioning if you stay in the game.Your environment matters earlyThe people you work with will shape your trajectory more than the title on your door.Trial experience is a differentiatorFor litigators, hands-on courtroom experience remains one of the most valuable career accelerators.Public service sharpens perspectiveTime in the U.S. Attorney’s Office provides a broader understanding of the law, government power, and decision-making that translates directly into private practice.Reputation drives businessDo great work consistently. Business development follows performance.Relentlessness wins—when applied correctlyFollowing through and owning outcomes is a competitive advantage, but knowing limits matters.Integrity is non-negotiableThere is no margin for error. One misstep can define a career.Topics CoveredFrom journalism ambitions to law school at the University of FloridaEarly career and training at Greenberg TraurigFederal appellate clerkship experience and its impactThe process and realities of becoming U.S. AttorneyLeadership inside the Department of JusticeTransitioning from public service back to private practiceFounding and growing Coffey BurlingtonBusiness development and long-term career strategyQuote Worth Noting“The best thing you can do for your career is do a great job on your cases. Everything else follows from that.”About the GuestKendall Coffey is a founding partner of Coffey Burlington and a nationally recognized trial lawyer focusing on high-stakes litigation, white collar defense, and complex commercial disputes. He previously served as U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Florida and has built a career defined by leadership, courtroom excellence, and sustained impact in the legal community.Bottom LineEnduring legal careers are not built on shortcuts. They are built on experience, discipline, relationships, and a consistent commitment to excellence over time.Streaming on YouTube, Spotify, Amazon Music, and Apple Podcasts. We are also in the top ten percent of listened-to podcasts globally.

April 1, 2026Episode 20628 min

206. From Flute Performance To High-Stakes Litigation With Katie Tonkinson

In this episode of The Practice Podcast, Katie Tonkinson joins Jeff Bast and Brett Amron to discuss her path from music performance to litigation, what law school doesn’t teach you, and why practicing law is ultimately a people business.She shares practical insights on building a legal career, the importance of discipline and communication, and how creative outlets like writing and music continue to shape her approach to the law.What You’ll HearHow a music background translates to legal practice The importance of networking and real-world exposure Why communication skills can make or break young lawyers What surprised her most about practicing law Bottom LineStrong lawyers are not just technically sound—they understand people, communicate clearly, and stay disciplined over time.Streaming on YouTube, Spotify, Amazon Music, and Apple Podcasts. We are also in the top ten percent of listened-to podcasts globally.