Ladies Who Law

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This week, we're joined by family law attorney Anne Frances Bleecker, who is sharing lessons from more than 35 years of practicing law! From working at large law firms to building her own all-female family law practice, Anne takes us through the ups and downs of her career, her love for litigation, and what it really takes to run a successful firm. We chat about courtroom experiences, balancing motherhood and marriage with a demanding legal career, avoiding burnout, and the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people. Whether you're a law student, new attorney, or seasoned lawyer, this episode is full of career advice, perspective, and a reminder that there's no one-size-fits-all path to success in the legal profession!

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It’s time for a good old-fashioned catch-up! We’re chatting about life lately from career growth and the realities of practicing law to motherhood, maternity leave, and trying to balance it all. Plus, we get into the latest bar exam chaos, the stress of waiting for results, the importance of mentorship, and why you truly never know all the law (it’s called practice for a reason!). Grab your coffee or wine and come catch up with us!

Project Candor: Ordinary People. Unexpected Stories
How a dog taught Dr. Andy Neillie to lead. You don't have to be famous to be fascinating.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

Support the show

Follow us on Instagram @theladieswholawpodcast

Send us a Text Message with thoughts, guest suggestions, stories and more, HERE!

In this episode, Susie Altamirano shares her unconventional journey from growing up in a family of hairdressers to becoming a city attorney. She discusses discovering her passion for public service, overcoming two unsuccessful bar attempts, building experience in tax law and political consulting, and finding her way back to the legal profession. Susie also shares how mentorship, resilience, and embracing an unexpected path shaped her career and what it means to serve as a woman of color in a male-dominated field.

Find Susie HERE!

Project Candor: Ordinary People. Unexpected Stories
How a dog taught Dr. Andy Neillie to lead. You don't have to be famous to be fascinating.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

Support the show

Follow us on Instagram @theladieswholawpodcast

Send us a Text Message with thoughts, guest suggestions, stories and more, HERE!

Think you have to attend law school to become a lawyer? Not necessarily.

This week, we're joined by Logan Cappsto discuss California's Law Office Study Program (LOSP). A unique apprenticeship pathway that allows aspiring attorneys to qualify for the bar exam without attending a traditional law school.

Logan walks us through how the program works, what it's like learning through mentorship instead of the classroom, and why discipline and self-motivation are essential for success. We also discuss the infamous "baby bar," the realities of studying independently, and how this alternative path compares to the traditional law school experience.

Whether you're considering law school, exploring alternative legal careers, or simply curious about how someone can become a lawyer without earning a J.D., this episode offers an inside look at one of the legal profession's best-kept secrets.

Connect with Logan on instagram

California Bar Style

Project Candor: Ordinary People. Unexpected Stories
How a dog taught Dr. Andy Neillie to lead. You don't have to be famous to be fascinating.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

Support the show

Follow us on Instagram @theladieswholawpodcast

Send us a Text Message with thoughts, guest suggestions, stories and more, HERE!

In this episode of Ladies Who Law, we sit down with criminal defense attorney and law firm owner Chloe Castro to discuss her unique path from college debater and aspiring environmental lawyer to prosecutor and entrepreneur. Chloe shares how her background in performing arts helped shape her courtroom presence, why she pivoted from environmental law to criminal law, and what she learned during her years at the State Attorney's Office before launching her own practice. We also dive into her law school experience at Vermont Law School, LSAT and Florida Bar Exam study strategies, the importance of trial experience, and practical advice for aspiring attorneys looking to build a rewarding and flexible legal career.

Find Chloe HERE!

Project Candor: Ordinary People. Unexpected Stories
How a dog taught Dr. Andy Neillie to lead. You don't have to be famous to be fascinating.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

Support the show

Follow us on Instagram @theladieswholawpodcast

Send us a Text Message with thoughts, guest suggestions, stories and more, HERE!

Not every lawyer fits the traditional mold and that's exactly what makes this conversation so refreshing.

This week, we're joined by Alyssa Ferreone, an attorney, model, content creator, and entrepreneur who has built a career that blends law with creativity. Alyssa shares how she went from dreaming of becoming a broadcast journalist to attending law school, practicing law in New York City, and eventually growing a platform that inspires thousands to embrace every part of who they are.

We talk about balancing multiple passions, overcoming the pressure to fit into a single career path, navigating social media as a legal professional, and why authenticity has been the key to her success. Whether you're a law student, practicing attorney, or someone wondering if it's okay to want more than one career, this episode is your reminder that you don't have to choose just one version of yourself.

Connect with Alyssa on Instagram here

Project Candor: Ordinary People. Unexpected Stories
How a dog taught Dr. Andy Neillie to lead. You don't have to be famous to be fascinating.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

Support the show

Follow us on Instagram @theladieswholawpodcast

Send us a Text Message with thoughts, guest suggestions, stories and more, HERE!

In this episode, the ladies are joined by Jessica Marshall, managing partner of a boutique family law firm in Chicago, to discuss her journey into family law, the realities of litigation, and the growing impact of AI on the legal profession. Jessica shares what law school was really like, the challenges she overcame during 1L, and why gaining practical experience and finding strong mentors are essential for young attorneys. The conversation also explores navigating gender bias and microaggressions in litigation, advocating for yourself while remaining professional, and how lawyers should approach AI tools like ChatGPT as a resource, not a substitute for legal judgment. Jessica offers practical advice on managing client expectations, maintaining confidence, and building a successful legal career, making this episode a must-listen for law students, new attorneys, and anyone interested in family law or the future of legal practice.

Find Jessica HERE!

Project Candor: Ordinary People. Unexpected Stories
How a dog taught Dr. Andy Neillie to lead. You don't have to be famous to be fascinating.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

Support the show

Follow us on Instagram @theladieswholawpodcast

Send us a Text Message with thoughts, guest suggestions, stories and more, HERE!

The bar exam is changing, and in this episode, we break down everything law students and future test-takers need to know about the Next Gen Bar Exam with Lisa Cline of JD Advising. Lisa explains how the new exam differs from the current Uniform Bar Exam (UBE), what subjects and skills will be tested, when states are expected to transition, and how students can begin preparing now. We also discuss how these changes may impact law school curriculum, study strategies, and the future of legal education. Whether you're heading to law school, preparing for the bar, or simply trying to stay ahead of the changes, this episode provides practical guidance and valuable insight into the next generation of attorney licensing.

GIVEAWAY June 15 - June 22: Sign up HERE

Use code NEXTGENPOD15 for 15% off any NextGen Outline of your choice

Next Gen Bar Exam Scope Outline
NCBE - Next Gen Bar Exam Details

Project Candor: Ordinary People. Unexpected Stories
How a dog taught Dr. Andy Neillie to lead. You don't have to be famous to be fascinating.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

Support the show

Follow us on Instagram @theladieswholawpodcast

Send us a Text Message with thoughts, guest suggestions, stories and more, HERE!

In this episode, we sit down with Meg Baker to talk about the realities of life after law school and the challenges many young attorneys face entering the legal profession. Meg shares her experience attending law school during the COVID-19 pandemic, navigating burnout and difficult work environments, and realizing traditional practice was not the right fit for her. We also discuss insurance defense, mentorship, toxic workplace culture, JD advantage careers, and the importance of giving yourself permission to pivot. If you are a law student, recent graduate, or young lawyer questioning your next step, this honest conversation is a reminder that there are many ways to build a fulfilling legal career.

Find Meg on LinkedInand Instagram

Check out Consilio

Project Candor: Ordinary People. Unexpected Stories
How a dog taught Dr. Andy Neillie to lead. You don't have to be famous to be fascinating.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

Support the show

Follow us on Instagram @theladieswholawpodcast

Send us a Text Message with thoughts, guest suggestions, stories and more, HERE!

Thinking about law school or about to start your 1L year? In this episode, law school coach Angela Vorpahl breaks down the biggest mistakes students make and what actually sets successful law students apart. From understanding how law school exams really work to navigating the changing world of law firm hiring, Angela shares practical advice every future lawyer needs to hear. If you want to feel more prepared, less overwhelmed, and ahead of the curve before stepping into your first class, this episode is for you.

AngelaVorpahl.com
Instagram @AngelaVorpahl

Podcast - The First Year: Law School and Lawyering

Project Candor: Ordinary People. Unexpected Stories
How a dog taught Dr. Andy Neillie to lead. You don't have to be famous to be fascinating.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

Support the show

Follow us on Instagram @theladieswholawpodcast

Send us a Text Message with thoughts, guest suggestions, stories and more, HERE!

In this episode, we sit down with immigration attorney and legal tech expert Ruby Powers to talk all things AI, innovation, and building a modern law practice. Ruby shares how lawyers can leverage AI for everything from case management to marketing, why staying adaptable is key in today’s legal landscape, and how networking and community can open unexpected doors. Whether you're in law school or growing your practice, this episode is packed with insights on working smarter, not harder, in the age of legal tech.

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Podcast

Project Candor: Ordinary People. Unexpected Stories
How a dog taught Dr. Andy Neillie to lead. You don't have to be famous to be fascinating.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

Support the show

Follow us on Instagram @theladieswholawpodcast

Send us a Text Message with thoughts, guest suggestions, stories and more, HERE!

In a world where the legal system can often feel daunting and impersonal, JoDee Neil stands out as a beacon of hope and resilience. A seasoned lawyer with a heart for justice, JoDee has navigated the complexities of law, from her early aspirations as a child to her impactful work in the courtroom. Join us as we explore her journey, insights, and the lessons learned along the way.

Find JoDee here

Find JoDee's book here

Project Candor: Ordinary People. Unexpected Stories
How a dog taught Dr. Andy Neillie to lead. You don't have to be famous to be fascinating.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

Support the show

Follow us on Instagram @theladieswholawpodcast

Send us a Text Message with thoughts, guest suggestions, stories and more, HERE!

Taryn Caruso joins us to share her unique path from registered nurse to medical malpractice attorney at Duffy and Duffy, PLLC and how her healthcare background gives her a powerful edge in the courtroom. We talk about navigating a career pivot, overcoming challenges during law school and the bar exam, and what it really looks like to advocate for clients in complex medical cases. Taryn offers honest insight into resilience, finding your path, and using your past experiences to stand out in the legal field.

Project Candor: Ordinary People. Unexpected Stories
How a dog taught Dr. Andy Neillie to lead. You don't have to be famous to be fascinating.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

Support the show

Follow us on Instagram @theladieswholawpodcast

Send us a Text Message with thoughts, guest suggestions, stories and more, HERE!

In this episode, trial attorney, Maine 's trial leader and First Female Managing Director, Elizabeth Kayattashares her journey into personal injury law and what it really takes to become a trial lawyer. She talks about how real-world experience before law school shaped her career, why mentorship and hands-on courtroom experience are so important, and what she learned from her first trial. Elizabeth also shares advice for aspiring attorneys, emphasizing the importance of saying yes to opportunities, building strong mentor relationships, and remembering the human side of the legal profession. Check out Berman & Simmons and Elizabeth here.

Project Candor: Ordinary People. Unexpected Stories
How a dog taught Dr. Andy Neillie to lead. You don't have to be famous to be fascinating.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

Support the show

Follow us on Instagram @theladieswholawpodcast

Send us a Text Message with thoughts, guest suggestions, stories and more, HERE!

In this episode, Cecilia Poullain shares her extensive journey through the legal profession, from her beginnings in Australia to her experiences in London and France. She discusses the challenges and learning curves of navigating different legal systems, her transition from law firm life to working in finance, and her current role in empowering women lawyers to achieve partnership and success in their careers. Cecilia emphasizes the importance of community and support networks for women in high-pressure legal environments.

Fine Cecilia here: https://www.ceciliapoullain.com/

00:00 Introduction to Cecilia Poullain
02:58 Cecilia's Journey Through Law School
05:32 Career Beginnings and Early Experiences
08:34 Transitioning Through Different Legal Systems
11:29 Working in Finance Law in France
14:17 Challenges in Law Firm Life
17:22 Realizations and Career Shifts
20:05 Becoming a Coach for Women Lawyers
23:15 Building Community and Support Networks
25:52 Cecilia's Coaching Approach and Programs

Project Candor: Ordinary People. Unexpected Stories
How a dog taught Dr. Andy Neillie to lead. You don't have to be famous to be fascinating.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

Support the show

Follow us on Instagram @theladieswholawpodcast

Send us a Text Message with thoughts, guest suggestions, stories and more, HERE!

In this week’s episode, Haylie and Samantha are celebrating law love stories!!! From Samantha’s own romance to listener submissions, they share how unexpected choices, late-night study sessions, and ambitious career dreams turned into lasting relationships. They talk about how law school dynamics can feel a little like high school, what changes (and what doesn’t) in your relationship once you become practicing attorneys, and how to balance demanding legal careers with real-life love. It’s sweet, relatable, and a reminder that sometimes your best case is the one that leads to forever.

Support the show

Follow us on Instagram @theladieswholawpodcast

Send us a Text Message with thoughts, guest suggestions, stories and more, HERE!

In this episode, we talk with Paige Harding about her path to rural lawyering and why small-town practice matters. Paige shares how growing up on a farm in Dodge City, Kansas shaped her values, how early internships exposed her to legal work outside major cities, and why access to justice remains a critical issue in rural Kansas—where some counties have no attorneys at all. We discuss the variety and impact of small-town practice, from estate planning and business law to litigation and land issues, along with the leadership and community connections that come with practicing locally. Paige also offers insight into her legislative advocacy through the Rural Justice Initiative and practical advice for lawyers considering returning to or starting a practice in a rural community.

Find Paige here: https://www.paigeharding.com/

Project Candor: Ordinary People. Unexpected Stories
How a dog taught Dr. Andy Neillie to lead. You don't have to be famous to be fascinating.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

Support the show

Follow us on Instagram @theladieswholawpodcast

Send us a Text Message with thoughts, guest suggestions, stories and more, HERE!

In this episode, Emily Plakon shares her journey as a commercial litigator, detailing her experiences from law school to her current role in Big Law. She discusses the challenges she faced during her law school years, including balancing work and studies while navigating the competitive environment. Emily reflects on her motivation to pursue law, stemming from her childhood debates with her father and her passion for debate in high school. She also recounts the impact of COVID-19 on her final year of law school and the bar exam, including the unique challenges of taking the exam online and the frustrations that arose from the situation.

Project Candor: Ordinary People. Unexpected Stories
How a dog taught Dr. Andy Neillie to lead. You don't have to be famous to be fascinating.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

Support the show

Follow us on Instagram @theladieswholawpodcast

Send us a Text Message with thoughts, guest suggestions, stories and more, HERE!

In this episode of the Ladies Who Law podcast, hosts Samantha and Haylie reflect on their personal growth over the past year, discussing the challenges and joys of motherhood, mental health, and career aspirations. They share insights on setting realistic goals for 2026, the importance of work-life balance, and the need for self-love and body positivity after childbirth. The conversation also touches on preparing for parenthood in demanding careers, understanding maternity leave policies, and embracing a softer lifestyle. As they look ahead, they emphasize the significance of intentional living and creating a supportive network for working parents.

Project Candor: Ordinary People. Unexpected Stories
How a dog taught Dr. Andy Neillie to lead. You don't have to be famous to be fascinating.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

Support the show

Follow us on Instagram @theladieswholawpodcast

Send us a Text Message with thoughts, guest suggestions, stories and more, HERE!

Project Candor: Ordinary People. Unexpected Stories
How a dog taught Dr. Andy Neillie to lead. You don't have to be famous to be fascinating.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

Support the show

Follow us on Instagram @theladieswholawpodcast