File Notes

Episode Eight Your host for this episode is ⁠Luke Campbell ⁠and ⁠Ella Cleary. ⁠⁠Natasha Blycha ⁠ In this episode, we're joined by Natasha Blycha, a globally recognized expert in smart contracts and distributed ledger technology. Ranked in the Chambers 2023 FinTech Legal Practice Area, Natasha is a leading authority on blockchain, digital assets, and web 3.0. Born in Australia to a Christian mother and an atheist father, Natasha's unique upbringing fueled her interest in ethics and comparative religions. After studying economics and law at the University of Newcastle, Natasha secured 8 job offers at top law firms! Natasha took a decade-long hiatus from 2005 to 2015 to raise her four children across different countries. Despite the break, she kept her mind active by learning Mandarin, running a nonprofit, and reading over 1000 books! Returning to law in 2015 at Herbert Smith Freehills, Natasha faced uncertainties about her marketability. However, Natasha soon progressed to the forefront of tech and digital law as she built Herbert Smith Freehills digital law group across multiple countries. Natasha's entrepreneurial spirit shines as she shares the inspiration behind starting her own law firm, Sterling and Rose. Conceived on a napkin during a week in Denmark (the Australian Denmark!), she reflects on the challenges and emphasizes the importance of diversity at the top. Beyond law, Natasha discusses her tech venture, Nooriam, focused on creating infrastructure for digitizing assets. Natasha shares her views on the rapid adoption of AI in legal services. While acknowledging its efficiency, she highlights the critical issues of responsibility and intent when AI operates autonomously, advocating for a reevaluation of societal values. This episode is brought to you by VXT, the leading VoIP phone system for lawyers.

Episode Seven Your host for this episode is Sophie Svenson and Luke Campbell. ‍ Nicola Tiffin is a trailblazer in immigration law and partner at a major New Zealand law firm, Duncan Cotterill. Recently recognized by NZ Lawyer’s 2023 list of 26 ‘Most Influential Lawyers’, Nicola has over 20 years of experience and leads Duncan Cotterill’s national immigration team across five offices. Join us as Nicola recounts her transition from a small-town upbringing to studying law and politics at the University of Canterbury. Nicola's tale takes an unexpected turn when she relocates to London at the urging of her best friend, embarking on a career that lands her in the realm of immigration law. The narrative takes a riveting twist when Nicola uncovers a shocking scandal involving forged work visas within her London firm. We explore the challenges she faced in taking over the practice and supporting impacted clients, a pivotal moment that shaped her resilience and risk-taking attitude in her later career. Returning to New Zealand, Nicola's story unfolds against the backdrop of significant events, including the 2011 Christchurch earthquakes, where Nicola played a crucial role in assisting immigration clients amidst the chaos. From supporting clients after the Christchurch mosque shootings to navigating the complexities of immigration law during the COVID-19 pandemic, Nicola's story is one of determination, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to her clients. Nicola shares insights into overcoming challenges and self-doubt, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and resilience. Join us for an engaging conversation, offering valuable advice for aspiring legal professionals and shedding light on the ongoing gender imbalance in law firms. This episode is brought to you by VXT, the leading VoIP phone system for lawyers.

Your host for this episode is Sophie Svenson. Angus Grayson is the visionary behind HouseMe Legal, a legal practice revolutionizing the home-buying experience for first-time buyers in Auckland. Angus has successfully crafted a legal practice that uses technology to deliver efficient and transparent services tailored to the evolving needs of the next generation of homeowners. In a departure from the traditional processes long employed by large firms, Angus's innovative approach resonates with the shifting attitudes of millennials. Join us as we explore the intricacies of launching your own practice, identifying niche markets, mastering the art of technological integration, and the role of mentorship in an environment that requires both entrepreneurial and legal skills. We delve into the strategic decisions that led Angus to start his own practice and the principles that guide HouseMe Legal in delivering exceptional services to a niche market. ‍ Transcription Summary From dissecting the steps of entrepreneurship to understanding the strategic decisions that underpin HouseMe Legal's success, this conversation is a deep dive into the dynamic intersection of law and business, showcasing Angus's innovative approach to legal services for the next generation of homeowners Angus takes us through the hurdles he encountered after graduating, navigating an oversaturated job market and finding his footing in a boutique firm before making a strategic move to Buddle Finlay. Six years into his career in commercial property law, Angus was poised for the next step when the unforeseen impact of COVID-19 altered his course. HouseMe Legal emerged from Angus's realization that first-home buyers deserved a more personalized and transparent home-buying experience. We discuss Angus's step-by-step process in establishing his practice, from courses with the New Zealand Law Society to leveraging technology at each stage of his processes for optimal efficiency. Throughout the conversation, Angus underscores the importance of transparency and education in providing clients with certainty during their home-buying journey. Key takeaways include the significance of building systems early on, maintaining work-life balance, and the strategic selection of mentors who offer guidance in both legal and business aspects. Angus shares tactics for organic personal brand growth and targeted outreach to find ideal clients. In just over a year, House Me Legal has carved a niche by staying laser-focused on delivering exceptional service to first home buyers, embodying the spirit of innovation in the legal landscape. ‍ Message Angus Grayson on LinkedIn if you would like to discuss starting your own firm, and receive a copy of his guide to starting your own practice. This episode is sponsored by VXT, the leading VoIP phone system for lawyers.

Episode Five Your host for this episode is Luke Campbell and Ella Cleary. In this episode of File Notes, we embark on a captivating narrative that unfolds the life of Anastasia Gamble, a woman whose journey from the heart of Ukraine to becoming a partner at Simpson Grierson in 2022 is marked by courage and resilience. Anastasia's journey unfolds against the backdrop of her nation's transition from the Soviet Union to independence. Her story is one of audacious decisions and the unwavering pursuit of professional excellence. Join us as we traverse the chapters of her life - her childhood in Ukraine, a daring move to the U.S. at 15, studying law in the scenic landscapes of New Zealand, the pivotal moments of mentorship, and the profound impact of the invasion of Ukraine, coinciding with her ascent to partnership. ‍ Transcription Summary Growing up in Ukraine, Anastasiya bore witness to a nation undergoing significant transitions during the dissolution of the Soviet Union. Demonstrating remarkable courage at the age of 15, Anastasiya, already a high school graduate, embarked on a year-long exchange in the United States. Fueling her academic pursuits, at 17, Anastasiya set her course for New Zealand, where she chose to delve into the realms of law and economics at the University of Auckland, ultimately establishing it as her newfound home. During her university years, Anastasiya showcased her proactive spirit by securing a legal position at Madison Hardy, with Principal Geoff Hardy recognized her potential. This encounter paved the way for a mentorship that would significantly shape the trajectory of her early career. Opting to further enrich her professional journey, she later joined Simpson Grierson. After eight years of unwavering dedication, Anastasiya achieved the momentous milestone of becoming partner. Anastasiya takes the audience behind the scenes of corporate and transactional legal work, discussing the intricacies of typical M&A deals from inception to completion. Beyond her legal acumen, she reveals the indispensable skills—ranging from business development to profile elevation—that proved instrumental on her path to partnership. Delving into the inner workings of legal partnerships, she sheds light on the critical factors that partners weigh when determining new appointments. The discussion further delves into the intensity of the partnership nomination process, emphasizing the pivotal support Anastasiya received from her peers during the challenging period coinciding with the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The conversation touches upon Anastasiya's impactful endeavors to support Ukraine, spanning from governmental lobbying to fundraising initiatives through the charity she co-founded, Mahi for Ukraine. The episode culminates in Anastasiya sharing her personal experience with the war in Ukraine, highlighting it as her greatest life challenge, profoundly shaping her perspective on life. Connect with Anastasiya on LinkedIn or find her details on the Simpson Grierson website. ‍ This podcast is sponsored by VXT, the leading VoIP phone system for legal professionals.

Make sure you ⁠Subscribe to FileNotes⁠ on the VXT website for exclusive subscriber only content in your inbox. In this episode, we dive into the intriguing career journey of Jordan Cole, the Operations Director at MinterEllisonRuddWatts, a leading law firm in New Zealand. Starting with a background in commerce and accounting, Jordan found his true calling in the legal realm after realizing the traditional path wasn't for him. From the mailroom of Meredith Connell law firm, he climbed the ladder over eight years, taking on a broad range of operations roles. Jordan shares with us his experiences in handling the firm's response to COVID-19, influencing decisions without formal authority, and the transformative power of volunteering. Join us as we unravel the layers of Jordan's career and discover the lessons he's learned along the way. ‍ Joining MinterEllisonRuddWatts in late 2019 as Operations Manager, Jordan faced an unexpected twist—the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. He shares insights into managing the firm's rapid response to the crisis, navigating remote work challenges, and leading major initiatives, including a significant office move. Jordan delves into the art of influencing without formal authority, a crucial skill in his role. He highlights the importance of honesty and adaptability, especially when things don't go as planned during crises. On a personal note, Jordan opens up about being diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes during the pandemic, a life-changing experience that added a unique layer to his professional journey. Drawing from his two years of volunteering for Lifeline, he reflects on the invaluable skill of listening without immediately offering solutions. Currently serving on the board of Waitamatā Community Law, Jordan discusses the significance of providing accessible legal help to those in need. Through his experiences, he emphasizes the importance of adaptability, honesty, and the power of truly listening in both personal and professional growth. In this episode, Jordan mentions the ways in which you can volunteer at Lifeline and Waitematā Community Law. Click these links to find out more. Your host for this episode is ⁠Luke Campbell⁠ and ⁠Ella Cleary.⁠ ‍This episode is sponsored by VXT, the leading VoIP phone system for legal professionals.

Your host for this episode is Luke Campbell and Ella Cleary. ‍ Hayden Wilson is the New Zealand chair and partner at Dentons, the largest global law firm in the world. Hayden has practiced law for more than 20 years with particular expertise in public, regulatory and commercial litigation. Hayden has been involved in some of New Zealand's highest-profile litigation cases in recent memory. We talk about why Hayden chose law over medical school, his passion for politics, becoming a partner at a prestigious firm, and of course, his involvement in litigation against former Conservative Party leader, Colin Craig. ‍ In this episode, we delve into Hayden Wilson's professional journey, tracing his early interest in law and politics back to the transformative 1990s when university fees and loans were introduced, reshaping the course of his career. Exploring Hayden's legal trajectory, we examine his path to partnership, emphasizing the evolving criteria that now prioritize leadership qualities over traditional legal skills. Currently holding the position of New Zealand Chair at Dentons, the world's largest global law firm, Hayden's steadfast commitment to shaping the firm's direction has been a pivotal force in his career. Hayden provides insights into his areas of legal expertise, with a focus on litigation, mediation/dispute resolution, and firm governance. He underscores the global advantage Dentons offers to New Zealand businesses. A notable aspect of Hayden's professional life is his pivotal role in a high-profile defamation case, representing Rachel McGregor against Colin Craig. This experience illuminates the limitations of litigation for personal disputes, inspiring Hayden to advocate for an enhanced role for mediation and propose reforms for a more efficient and accessible legal system. Addressing young lawyers, Hayden emphasizes the benefits of exploring different legal environments and seeking mentorship beyond the confines of the profession. Concluding the episode, Hayden shares his perspectives on elevating litigation, advocating for an expanded role of mediation, and proposing reforms to bolster overall efficiency and accessibility. This podcast episode provides a comprehensive exploration of Hayden Wilson's experiences and insights, offering valuable perspectives for those intrigued by the legal profession and its ongoing evolution. ‍ Check out Hayden's latest piece of work, mentioned in the episode; Does compromise, compromise justice? Three proposals for the integration of mediation and litigation.

A CEO's unconventional path back to law, emphasizing innovation in a top law firm. Discussion on AI and legal tech shaping the future of law. Insights on blending human expertise with technology for service delivery in the legal industry.

Enclosed in this file: Jeremy Muir's early career, overcoming personal challenges and practical steps to becoming a partner at a large law firm. Jeremy Muir is widely recognised as New Zealand's foremost lawyer in crypto with broader expertise across financial services, FinTech and investments. Jeremy is a Partner at MinterEllisonRuddWatts and co-leads the firm's banking and financial services division. He is in the Legal 500 Asia Pacific’s Hall of Fame for investment funds and is ranked in the top tier for financial services by the Chambers Asia Pacific. In today's conversation, we discuss everything from Jeremy’s early career to overcoming difficult personal challenges, becoming a partner at one of New Zealand's largest law firms and the practical steps that have been important to his success. Your hosts for this episode are Luke Campbell and Ella Cleary. The File Notes Podcast is brought to you by VXT, the leading VoIP provider for legal professionals.