
Notes To My (Legal) Self
Hello! Welcome to Notes To My (Legal) Self. Together with our incredible guests, we explore topics of interest to in-house lawyers, including career tips, leadership, the future of law, mental health, legal tech, and more.
We've recently added specialty seasons to cater to specific interests of in-house lawyers:
AI Insights: Trends and applications of AI in law.
Let's Law Better: Improving legal operations.
Future Belongs to Builders: Innovations in legal tech.
Join us as we dive into these exciting topics!
Latest episodes

Feb 14, 2021 • 40min
Season 1, Episode 20: Leading International Teams (with Aviram Gavish)
Join us for an enlightening conversation with Aviram Gavish, as he shares his expertise in leading international teams. Drawing from his extensive experience, Aviram provides valuable insights and practical strategies for navigating cross-cultural dynamics and fostering effective collaboration in global settings.
Aviram Gavish delves into the nuances of leading international teams, highlighting the importance of trust, communication, and cultural sensitivity. He emphasizes the need to listen attentively and respect cultural differences, while also leveraging personal connections to build strong relationships. Aviram shares anecdotes and lessons learned from his own experiences, underscoring the significance of actions over words in gaining trust and fostering cooperation.
Learning Outcomes:
Gain insights into the importance of trust and communication in leading international teams.
Understand strategies for navigating cultural differences and building strong relationships across borders.
Learn practical approaches for fostering collaboration and cooperation in global settings.
Explore the role of personal connections and actions in earning trust and respect from team members.
Acquire valuable lessons and best practices from real-world experiences to enhance leadership effectiveness in international contexts.

Feb 7, 2021 • 32min
Season 1, Episode 19: Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Movement (with Robyn Frank)
In this episode of "Empowering Conversations," Robyn Frank, General Counsel at Centerforce USA, shares her inspiring journey from corporate law to becoming a passionate advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Robyn's candid insights and practical advice offer invaluable guidance for individuals and organizations committed to fostering a more inclusive and equitable world.
Robyn Frank's transformation from a successful corporate lawyer to a DEI champion began with a pivotal moment at a conference focused on women and minorities in the legal industry. Embracing the empowering atmosphere of the event, Robyn realized her true calling lay in championing diversity and inclusion initiatives. This revelation led her to transition from her role as General Counsel at an energy company to her current position at Centerforce USA, where she serves as both GC and Vice President for the Diversity Division.
Robyn's passion for DEI shines through as she shares her personal journey and insights on the importance of embracing responsibility and taking tangible action to create meaningful change. Drawing on her experiences volunteering with Native American communities and her work at Centerforce, Robyn emphasizes the need for authentic engagement and intentional efforts to address systemic inequalities.
Learning Outcomes:
Understand the transformative power of personal passion and purpose in driving meaningful change.
Learn practical strategies for integrating diversity, equity, and inclusion into organizational culture and practices.
Gain insights into the role of leadership in championing DEI initiatives and fostering a culture of accountability.
Discover the importance of authentic engagement and building genuine connections to drive sustainable change.
Explore ways to leverage individual skills and experiences to contribute to the broader movement for diversity and inclusion.

Jan 24, 2021 • 31min
Season 1, Episode 18: Embracing Vulnerability to Find Your Strengths (with Julie Honor)
In this enlightening episode of "I Note to My (Legal) Self," Julie Honor, General Counsel at 3Q Digital, shares her remarkable journey of resilience and adaptability in the face of unexpected career challenges. From navigating layoffs during the 2008 financial crisis to embracing vulnerability and scrappiness, Julie provides valuable insights and practical strategies for thriving in the ever-changing landscape of the legal profession.
Julie Honor's journey unfolds as she recounts her early career experiences, from landing her dream job at a prestigious law firm to facing unexpected layoffs amidst the 2008 financial crisis. Despite the initial shock and uncertainty, Julie demonstrates remarkable resilience and adaptability, pivoting from litigation to change management consulting before ultimately finding her calling as a General Counsel. Along the way, she shares valuable lessons learned, emphasizing the importance of vulnerability, scrappiness, and embracing change as catalysts for personal and professional growth.
Learning Outcomes:
Gain insights into navigating career challenges and unexpected transitions in the legal profession.
Understand the importance of vulnerability and authenticity in building resilience and forging meaningful connections.
Learn practical strategies for identifying and leveraging transferable skills to thrive in diverse roles and industries.
Explore the power of scrappiness and creativity in overcoming obstacles and driving innovation.
Discover how embracing change can lead to personal and professional fulfillment in the face of adversity.

Jan 17, 2021 • 39min
Season 1, Episode 17: Digital Contracting and Negotiation (with Nada Alnajafi)
In this episode of "I Note to My (Legal) Self," we explore the dynamic world of digital contracting and negotiation with seasoned legal professional, Nada Alnajafi. Join us as Nada shares her journey from practicing law to pioneering legal project management and consulting, offering valuable insights into the evolving landscape of the legal industry.
Nada reflects on her transition from traditional legal practice to consulting, recounting her experiences managing technology projects for prominent clients. She discusses the importance of embracing new opportunities and the role of project management in streamlining legal processes.
Nada delves deeper her expertise in legal project management and the integration of technology into legal practice. She emphasizes the need for attorneys to become fluent in both legal and business languages, highlighting the power of empathy in negotiations. Nada also shares practical advice for lawyers looking to transition into new roles or enter the field, stressing the significance of developing project management skills and adapting to technological advancements.
Learning Outcomes:
Gain insights into the evolving role of attorneys in today's business world.
Understand the importance of project management skills in streamlining legal processes.
Learn negotiation strategies and the role of empathy in successful negotiations.
Explore the integration of technology into legal practice and its impact on the industry.
Discover practical tips for lawyers looking to transition into new roles or enter the legal field.

Jan 10, 2021 • 41min
Season 1, Episode 16: Artificial Intelligence, e-Contracts, Autonomous Vehicles in Law (with Annmarie Giblin)
Discover the groundbreaking potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in the legal realm with Annmarie Giblin, a leading expert in cyber law and privacy. Join us on "Notes to My Legal Self" as we unravel the intricate relationship between AI, e-contracts, and autonomous vehicles, and their profound implications for the future of law.
In this captivating episode titled "Artificial Intelligence, e-Contracts, Autonomous Vehicles in Law," Annmarie Giblin delves deep into the ethical and practical considerations surrounding AI integration in legal practice. From data privacy concerns to accountability and compliance challenges, she navigates the complex terrain of AI ethics with clarity and insight.
Listeners will embark on a journey to:
Explore the transformative impact of AI on legal negotiations, contract drafting, and liability dynamics, shedding light on the evolving landscape of e-contracts and autonomous vehicles.
Gain actionable strategies for responsibly harnessing AI's potential, including staying abreast of emerging technologies, engaging with legal tech resources, and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration.
Develop a nuanced understanding of the ethical implications and regulatory frameworks shaping AI adoption in the legal profession, with an emphasis on accountability, transparency, and compliance with evolving laws.
Reflect on the evolving role of legal professionals in an AI-driven world, and the imperative of proactive adaptation to navigate the rapidly changing legal landscape.
Discover how AI is revolutionizing legal practice, one contract, one case, and one autonomous vehicle at a time, and the opportunities it presents for enhancing efficiency, accuracy, and client service.
Join Annmarie Giblin on this enlightening exploration of AI in law, where cutting-edge technology intersects with timeless legal principles. Whether you're a legal practitioner, a tech enthusiast, or simply curious about the future of law, this episode promises to broaden your horizons and deepen your understanding of the transformative power of AI in shaping the legal profession. Tune in and embark on a journey to the forefront of legal innovation, where the possibilities are as boundless as the human imagination.

Jan 4, 2021 • 24min
Season 1, Episode 15: Collaboration to Change the Balance of Power (with Breen Sullivan)
Dive into the transformative power of collaboration with Breen Sullivan, founder of The Fourth Floor, in this captivating episode of "Notes to My (Legal) Self." Join us as we explore how collaboration is reshaping the balance of power in business and society, driving systemic change and fostering wealth creation. From the digital revolution to the rise of diverse communities, Breen shares valuable insights and real-world examples that illuminate the path to a more collaborative and equitable future.
In this episode titled "Collaboration to Change the Balance of Power," Breen Sullivan delves into the principles guiding The Fourth Floor, a pioneering community empowering women in entrepreneurship and investment. She discusses the shift from competition to collaboration in the post-COVID landscape, highlighting the rise of digital communities as catalysts for innovation and collective action. Breen explores the benefits of collaboration, from more effective problem-solving to societal impact, drawing on examples like Iceland's socioeconomic recovery and countries led by women during the pandemic. She also shares her vision for The Fourth Floor, envisioning a dynamic ecosystem fueled by community capital and innovation.
Learning Outcomes:
Gain insights into the transformative power of collaboration in reshaping business dynamics and societal norms.
Understand the role of digital communities in driving innovation, collective action, and systemic change.
Learn about the benefits of collaboration, including more effective problem-solving, value creation, and societal impact.
Explore real-world examples of successful collaboration, from Iceland's socioeconomic recovery to countries led by women during the pandemic.
Discover the vision of The Fourth Floor and its mission to democratize access to opportunities, drive systemic change, and foster wealth creation through collaboration.

Dec 14, 2020 • 47min
Season 1, Episode 14: Compliance - Player? Coach? Umpire? (with Phil Strauss)
In the latest episode of "Notes to My (Legal) Self," titled "Compliance - Player? Coach? Umpire?," join host Phil Strauss as he delves into the intricate world of legal compliance. With over two decades of experience, Phil shares invaluable insights gained from his journey, from practicing law to becoming the Chief Compliance Officer for the Americas at Rakuten.
In this compelling discussion, Phil draws parallels between the roles of legal leaders and compliance officers, likening them to tightrope walkers and jugglers, respectively. He explores the critical importance of ethics and navigating the unwritten rules that define corporate culture.
Listeners will discover practical strategies for building and advancing a compliance department, starting with foundational elements and progressing towards strategic maturity. Phil emphasizes the pivotal role of culture in shaping compliance efforts, emphasizing that culture is defined by who you hire and promote.
Furthermore, Phil sheds light on the profound impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on compliance functions, revealing how compliance officers have become integral members of COVID task forces, navigating safety protocols and regulatory compliance.
Tune in to this thought-provoking episode of "Notes to My (Legal) Self" to gain insights into:
The multifaceted role of compliance officers as players, coaches, and umpires in ensuring organizational integrity and ethical conduct.
Practical strategies for building and advancing a compliance department, from foundational elements to strategic maturity.
The critical importance of culture in shaping compliance efforts and fostering ethical leadership.
The evolving landscape of compliance in response to external factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic, and the role of compliance officers in navigating complex regulatory environments.
Whether you're a seasoned compliance professional or new to the field, this episode offers valuable wisdom and strategic guidance for navigating the complex terrain of compliance in today's business landscape.

Dec 7, 2020 • 20min
Season 1, Episode 13: Legal Ops Journey - How to Set Yourself on a Path to Success (with Rachita Maker)
Embark on a transformative journey with Rachita Maker, Vice President of Legal Operations and Compliance at Data Communications, in the insightful episode titled "Legal Ops Journey - How to Set Yourself on a Path to Success." Rachita shares her wealth of experience spanning over two decades in the legal services industry, offering invaluable insights into navigating the dynamic landscape of legal operations. Through engaging conversations, she illuminates the strategic role of legal operations in driving organizational efficiency, managing risk, and fostering innovation within legal departments. Join Rachita as she explores essential skills, challenges, and opportunities on the path to success in legal operations, empowering listeners to chart their own course towards professional excellence.
In this captivating episode of "Legal Ops Journey - How to Set Yourself on a Path to Success," Rachita Maker delves into her illustrious career trajectory and shares invaluable wisdom gleaned from her experience as Vice President of Legal Operations and Compliance at Data Communications. Rachita's journey unfolds against the backdrop of the evolving landscape of legal operations, marked by technological advancements, shifting paradigms, and emerging opportunities. Through candid dialogue, she explores the strategic imperatives driving the prominence of legal operations in today's corporate ecosystem, emphasizing the pivotal role of legal operations leaders in driving organizational efficiency and fostering innovation. Rachita navigates through essential skills, challenges, and strategies for success in legal operations, offering listeners actionable insights to propel their professional journey forward.
Learning Outcomes:
Gain profound insights into Rachita Maker's illustrious career trajectory and her role as Vice President of Legal Operations and Compliance at Data Communications.
Explore the strategic significance of legal operations in driving organizational efficiency, managing risk, and fostering innovation within legal departments.
Learn about essential skills, challenges, and opportunities on the path to success in legal operations, including project management, collaboration, negotiation, and process excellence.
Discover actionable strategies for navigating the dynamic landscape of legal operations and charting a course towards professional excellence.
Empower yourself to embark on a transformative journey in legal operations, leveraging Rachita's expertise and insights to set yourself on a path to success.

Nov 30, 2020 • 43min
Season 1, Episode 12: Personal Branding for Lawyers (with Mel Scott)
Embark on a journey of legal innovation and career exploration with Mel Scott on "Counsel: The Podcast." Delve into the dynamic world of in-house counsel life, social media, and personal branding as Mel shares her expertise and insights. Join her in thought-provoking conversations with legal professionals from diverse backgrounds, uncovering the secrets to success in the modern legal landscape. Whether you're a law student, early-career lawyer, or seasoned legal veteran, "Counsel: The Podcast" is your go-to resource for navigating the ever-changing legal terrain.
In this episode, Mel Scott opens up about her experiences leveraging social media to humanize the legal profession. She emphasizes the importance of authenticity and community engagement in shaping her personal brand as an in-house lawyer. Mel discusses the evolution of her online presence and the role of social media in connecting with like-minded individuals within the legal industry. She explores the power of personal branding in creating opportunities and fostering meaningful relationships, both online and offline. Drawing inspiration from her own journey and community feedback, Mel shares valuable insights into content creation, networking, and career development amidst the backdrop of COVID-19. Her father's timeless advice to focus on the journey rather than the destination serves as a guiding principle throughout the conversation, highlighting the importance of enjoying the process of career growth and self-discovery.
Learning Outcomes:
Gain insights into the role of social media in shaping the personal brand and reputation of in-house lawyers.
Understand the significance of authenticity and community engagement in building meaningful connections within the legal industry.
Learn strategies for content creation and leveraging social media platforms to showcase expertise and interests.
Explore the impact of COVID-19 on career development and networking opportunities for legal professionals.
Embrace the importance of enjoying the journey of career growth and exploration, prioritizing personal fulfillment and learning along the way.

Nov 23, 2020 • 38min
Season 1, Episode 11: How We Regulate One of Our Most Crucial Resources – Energy (with James Strange)
Join us as we explore the dynamic world of energy law and policy with James Strange, Associate General Counsel at a Southern California-based nonprofit specializing in energy advisory services. From his unconventional path starting with an art degree to navigating the complexities of energy regulation, James shares insights into the challenges and opportunities in shaping the future of energy.
In this enlightening conversation, James Strange shares his journey from an art graduate to an Associate General Counsel deeply entrenched in energy law and policy. Starting in a solar company during the economic downturn of 2008, Strange's curiosity about energy policy led him to pursue law school with a focus on energy and administrative law. His studies at the University of Hawaii, amidst the state's renewable energy debates, provided a rich foundation in understanding energy regulation and community engagement. Strange highlights key challenges in energy policy, including transitioning to renewable energy sources, managing surplus electricity, and updating aging infrastructure. Despite the complexities, he remains optimistic about the possibilities and emphasizes the importance of continued momentum and targeted policymaking. For aspiring energy lawyers, Strange offers valuable advice, including focusing on environmental and administrative law courses, seeking internships at utilities or public utilities commissions, and engaging with nonprofit organizations working on energy issues.
Learning Outcomes:
Gain insights into the unconventional career path of a lawyer specializing in energy law and policy.
Understand the challenges and opportunities in shaping the future of energy regulation and policy.
Explore key issues such as transitioning to renewable energy sources, managing surplus electricity, and updating aging infrastructure.
Learn valuable advice for aspiring energy lawyers, including educational focus areas, internship opportunities, and community engagement strategies.
Gain a deeper appreciation for the role of law and policy in driving sustainable energy practices and fostering community involvement in energy decision-making.