Join us for an engaging episode of Notes to my (Legal) Self featuring the formidable Justin Wales, Head of Legal for the Americas at Crypto.com. Dive deep into the world of crypto law and discover a path less traveled in the legal profession. Justin Wales, one of the nation’s top crypto lawyers, shares his unique journey in the legal landscape, focusing on the revolutionary world of crypto, DeFi, and NFTs. Having recently authored "The Crypto Legal Handbook," Justin is here to dismantle traditional career paths and offer fresh perspectives for law students and seasoned professionals. In this session, you'll gain insights into the challenges and opportunities within the crypto legal framework. Justin discusses the importance of carving out a niche in decentralized technologies and shares strategies for building a fulfilling career that defies conventional specialization. This session is more than just a conversation; it's a chance to engage directly with a leader in legal innovation. Bring your questions, share your views, and network with like-minded professionals. Consider questions like: What pivotal experiences shaped your career path? How can legal professionals pivot their careers towards emerging technologies like crypto? How can breaking the specialization barrier in law lead to greater job satisfaction? Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from a pioneer in crypto law and gain valuable insights that could transform your legal career. Tune in for a fun, educational, and inspiring discussion that promises to broaden your horizons and spark new ideas. In this episode, Justin Wales takes you on a fascinating journey through his career in the legal field, emphasizing his unique path that defies traditional specialization. He introduces himself as a self-proclaimed "degenerate" with a passion for crypto since law school, which set the stage for his unconventional career trajectory. Justin explains the genesis of his book, "The Crypto Legal Handbook," which began as a collection of resources to help budding crypto enthusiasts and evolved into a comprehensive guide for anyone interested in the field. He shares the challenges of self-publishing, the importance of making educational resources accessible and affordable, and the benefits of maintaining an updatable digital presence to keep readers informed. Justin's approach to law is refreshingly candid, prioritizing practical knowledge and the broad application of legal principles across various domains. The conversation also touches on the pitfalls of over-specialization in law, advocating for a more holistic approach to legal practice that can adapt to the rapidly changing landscape of technology and regulation. Justin's story is a testament to the power of taking risks, seeking mentorship, and continually adapting to new challenges. Holistic Legal Education: Understand the value of broadening your legal knowledge beyond a single specialization to remain adaptable and relevant in a rapidly evolving field like crypto law. Practical Insights: Gain practical advice on how to navigate state and federal regulations in the crypto space, emphasizing the importance of being legally ambidextrous. Career Flexibility: Learn how to actively shape your career path by taking calculated risks, seeking out mentors, and being open to blowing things up and starting anew when necessary. Community and Networking: Discover the importance of networking within the crypto community, both online and in person, to stay informed and connected with industry developments. Accessible Resources: Appreciate the benefits of self-publishing and maintaining updatable resources that can adapt to the fast-paced changes in technology and regulation. Tune in to this episode for a wealth of knowledge from a leader in crypto law, and walk away with actionable insights that can help you build a dynamic and fulfilling legal career.

Join us for an enlightening episode of Notes to my (Legal) Self with Robert Chesnut, former General Counsel and Chief Ethics Officer at Airbnb. Discover the critical role of integrity in business—a strategy that goes beyond charitable contributions to become a cornerstone of corporate success. Robert Chesnut, a Harvard Law graduate who pioneered trust and safety at eBay and shaped the ethical framework at Airbnb, shares his wealth of experience. This episode features an interactive Q&A session where you can ask Rob your burning questions about corporate ethics and learn from his extensive experience. Gain actionable insights into integrating integrity into your business strategy and understand why it's crucial for long-term success. Rob's journey at Airbnb, especially during the #MeToo movement, underscores the importance of proactive ethical leadership. He discusses how he transitioned from the reactive role of a General Counsel to the proactive stance of a Chief Ethics Officer, focusing on embedding integrity into the company culture. Rob delves into the difference between ethics and integrity, emphasizing that integrity resonates more with people because it aligns with personal values rather than just compliance. Learn how to implement integrity as a core aspect of corporate culture through practical strategies such as engaging employees in rewriting the code of ethics, using voluntary integrity videos, and creating an ethics advisor program. Rob's innovative approach, including the use of "Integrity Yetis" to reward ethical behavior, highlights how small gestures can significantly impact corporate culture. This episode is not only educational but also an opportunity to engage directly with a leader who has shaped ethical standards in major companies. Explore how integrity can influence decision-making at the highest levels and apply these principles in your day-to-day business operations. Set your reminders now and prepare to be inspired by this engaging and thought-provoking discussion. In this episode, Robert Chesnut shares stories and frameworks that illustrate the power of integrity in business. He explains how his role at Airbnb evolved during the #MeToo movement, leading him to focus on preventing problems rather than just addressing them. Rob's insights into the difference between compliance and integrity reveal that while compliance is about following rules, integrity is about doing the right thing because it resonates with personal values. Rob discusses practical ways to embed integrity into corporate culture, such as involving employees in rewriting the code of ethics and creating engaging, voluntary integrity videos. He highlights the success of Airbnb's ethics advisor program, which increased engagement and reinforced the importance of ethical behavior across the company. By sharing anecdotes like the "Integrity Yeti" initiative, Rob demonstrates how recognizing and rewarding ethical behavior can foster a culture of integrity. He emphasizes that integrity is contagious and that leaders set the tone for the entire organization. From this conversation, you will learn: The distinction between compliance and integrity and why integrity resonates more with employees. Practical strategies to embed integrity into your company's culture, including rewriting the code of ethics and creating engaging integrity videos. The importance of involving employees in ethical initiatives to create a sense of ownership and commitment. How recognizing and rewarding ethical behavior can significantly impact corporate culture. The role of leaders in setting the tone for integrity and how their actions influence the entire organization. The value of integrating ethical practices into business strategies for long-term success and brand trustworthiness. Tune in to gain valuable insights from Robert Chesnut and learn how to make integrity a driving force in your business.

Join us for an engaging episode of Notes to my (Legal) Self featuring the distinguished Harry Borovick, General Counsel at Luminance and lecturer at the University of Law, London. Harry recently contributed to the pivotal discussion on Legal Operations in the Age of Data and AI, bringing a unique blend of academic and practical expertise to the table. In this session, Harry guides us through the evolving landscape of legal practice shaped by technological advancements. Delve into the significant changes within the legal field, the pivotal role of AI, and the necessity of AI skills in legal training. This conversation is essential for anyone interested in understanding how AI is transforming legal practice and the importance of integrating these skills into legal education. You'll gain insights into the transformation of legal practice through AI, learn about the importance of integrating AI into legal education, and discover how to balance traditional legal skills with emerging tech demands. Harry's expertise provides a comprehensive look at the future of the legal profession, emphasizing the need for adaptability and continuous learning. This episode also encourages you to engage and explore critical questions: Do you think AI skills should be a compulsory part of legal education? How can traditional legal skills be preserved amidst the rise of AI? What impact will AI have on the legal profession in the next decade? Don't miss this opportunity to learn from a thought leader at the forefront of legal technology. Tune in for a fun, educational, and thought-provoking discussion that promises to equip you with the knowledge to navigate the future of legal practice. Harry Borovick, in this episode, shares his unique experiences and profound insights on the dynamic relationship between AI and legal practice. He discusses his role at Luminance, an AI company at the forefront of legal technology, and contrasts it with traditional General Counsel positions. Harry emphasizes the importance of feedback loops, where his team not only develops but also uses the products, providing valuable insights from a user's perspective. He reflects on the need for legal education to evolve, stressing the importance of integrating AI and technology skills into curriculums. Harry explains that while traditional skills remain vital, the application of these skills must adapt to technological advancements. His teaching experience underscores the necessity for law students to be proficient in AI, preparing them for the complexities of modern legal practice. By tuning into this episode, you'll learn: How AI is revolutionizing legal practice and education. The critical balance between traditional legal skills and emerging tech demands. The significance of integrating AI training in law schools. Strategies for adapting to technological changes in the legal profession. The importance of continuous learning and personal ownership in legal careers. Engage with this conversation to better understand the future of the legal profession and how to stay ahead in an ever-evolving landscape. Don't miss out on this opportunity to learn from a leading voice in legal technology!

Are you ready to supercharge your professional growth and expand your network? Join us for an inspiring episode of Notes to my (Legal) Self with the remarkable Brittany Becker, Marketing & Product Counsel at Redfin. Brittany's journey in the legal world is a testament to her unique ability to balance a demanding career while nurturing deep client relationships, fostering friendships beyond her immediate colleagues, and contributing significantly to the legal profession through mentorship—all without compromising her personal time and passions. As a dedicated mother, introvert, lifelong learner, and an advocate for mentorship, Brittany has mastered the art of leveraging her strengths to create a fulfilling professional life that aligns with her personal values and interests. In this session, you gain valuable insights into the art of scaling your abilities to practice law more efficiently. Brittany shares her strategies for making time for what truly matters—both professionally and personally. Discover the power of mentorship and how building meaningful relationships within and outside of your workspace can transform your career. Brittany also offers tips on becoming a trusted advisor and a continuous learner in the rapidly evolving legal landscape. This episode is packed with practical advice and inspiring stories that promise to help you navigate your own professional journey with greater ease and fulfillment. You’ll hear Brittany discuss her role at Redfin, where she skillfully manages everything from reviewing marketing materials like TV ads and postcards to advising on AI compliance with state regulations. She sheds light on the significance of details, such as writing clear and approachable disclaimers, which contribute to a brand's authenticity and customer trust. Brittany emphasizes that even the smallest tasks, when done right, can reflect the larger values of a company. Brittany's personal experiences as a first-generation college student and the challenges she faced entering the legal profession have fueled her passion for mentoring. She shares how her winding career path, from being a public defender to her current role at Redfin, has equipped her with a diverse skill set and a unique perspective on the importance of mentorship. Brittany's dedication to mentoring through the Legal Mentor Network highlights her commitment to guiding others through their professional journeys, ensuring they too can navigate their careers with confidence and clarity. One of the standout moments is Brittany's approach to mentoring, which is tailored to each individual's needs. She recounts how she has guided mentees through resume revisions, career transitions, and even just being a supportive listener. Brittany's flexible and empathetic mentoring style is a testament to her belief in the importance of personal connections and genuine support. In this episode, you will learn: How to effectively balance a demanding legal career with personal passions and commitments. The importance of building and maintaining meaningful professional relationships. Strategies for creating clear, concise, and engaging legal disclaimers. The value of mentorship in personal and professional development. Practical tips for navigating the legal landscape and staying ahead in a rapidly evolving field. Tune in to this enlightening episode and walk away with actionable insights to enhance your professional life and network more effectively. Don't miss out on Brittany Becker's inspiring journey and the wealth of knowledge she brings to Notes to my (Legal) Self.

Ever wondered how the landscape of legal technology has transformed over the past three decades? Dive into this episode of Notes to my (Legal) Self for an enlightening conversation with Marla Crawford, General Counsel at Simplify. Marla was at the forefront of the e-discovery revolution, witnessing firsthand the monumental shifts that have reshaped the legal profession. In this episode, Marla shares her journey from big law in the late 80s to leading the charge in the Enron case's e-discovery efforts. She recounts the early days of sifting through mountains of paper documents in a basement office, to the revolutionary moment when legal teams began using technology to manage massive amounts of data. Through her story, you'll gain unique insights into how technology has both challenged and improved the legal industry over the past 35 years. Marla also delves into the SPLASH Pledge movement, an initiative aimed at combating sexual harassment within the legal tech industry, and the importance of fostering diversity and inclusion in professional environments. Her reflections on balancing a demanding career with personal life, and her advice on leveraging technology to stay ahead in the legal field, offer invaluable lessons for legal professionals at all stages of their careers. Key takeaways from this episode include: The Evolution of Legal Technology: Understand how e-discovery began and evolved, transforming the way legal professionals handle large-scale data management. Balancing Act: Learn strategies for balancing career and personal life, and how to find opportunities in less glamorous tasks. Embracing Change: Discover the importance of adapting to technological advancements and how it can lead to professional growth and innovation. The Power of Inclusion: Gain insights into advancing and protecting diversity within legal spaces, and why it's crucial for the future of the profession. Practical Advice: Get practical tips on managing e-discovery and leveraging new technologies to enhance legal practices. SPLASH Pledge: Explore the significance of the SPLASH Pledge in creating safer and more inclusive professional environments. Marla’s story is a testament to the power of embracing change and using it as a catalyst for personal and professional growth. Whether you're a legal practitioner, technology enthusiast, or an advocate for workplace diversity, this episode promises to leave you inspired and equipped with practical advice to navigate the evolving landscape of legal technology. Tune in to reflect on how technological advancements have impacted your field, share your perspectives, and join the conversation on how we can work collectively towards a more inclusive and diverse legal industry.

In this episode of Notes to my (Legal) Self, dive into the captivating world of Large Language Models (LLMs) with legal expert Damien Riehl. Explore how LLMs are transforming the landscape of idea extraction and generation, and the intricate legal challenges they pose. Expect an engaging discussion on the significant lawsuits against LLM companies, such as NY Times v. Microsoft/OpenAI and Doe v. Github, and why major players like Google, Microsoft, and Adobe are indemnifying LLM users against copyright lawsuits. Gain insights into the legal foundations of the idea-expression distinction, understanding how neural nets process text into uncopyrightable vector embeddings, and why LLM inputs and outputs often present strong fair use defenses. Damien provides an in-depth analysis of how the idea-expression dichotomy is at the heart of many copyright cases, arguing that ideas themselves are not copyrightable—only their expressions are. He explains that LLMs extract ideas from vast data sets and generate new expressions, thus navigating away from copyright infringement claims. The conversation delves into the complexities of determining what constitutes an "original" work and the implications of statistical likelihood in LLM-generated content. In the practical realm, discover why Big Tech's support for LLM users is a strategic move to avoid bad case law, and learn how in-house lawyers can protect their companies when relying on these technologies. Explore the future of business models in legal tech, where Damien predicts that the value will lie in unique data ("oil") and innovative products, rather than simply wrapping LLMs in new interfaces. Key takeaways from this episode include: Grasp the legal reasoning behind Big Tech’s support for LLM users. Master the idea-expression dichotomy for copyright eligibility. Learn about the transformation of text into uncopyrightable ideas via LLMs. Discover how LLM inputs and outputs navigate away from infringement claims. Whether you're an attorney, a legal technologist, or simply intrigued by the intersection of law and technology, this episode offers valuable insights into the evolving landscape of copyright risks and AI. Don’t miss this chance to stay ahead in the rapidly changing world of legal innovation.

Ever wondered what magic unfolds when the precision of law meets the innovation of technology? Discover the secrets behind successful collaborations driving the tech industry forward in this episode of Notes to My (Legal) Self, featuring Laura Jeffords Greenberg, Senior Director of Legal at Worksome. Together, we explore the art of communication between legal experts and developers, unveiling strategies that bridge gaps and forge new pathways for innovation. Laura shares her insights on ensuring seamless interactions between legal and development teams, highlighting communication strategies that lead to successful collaborations. Gain practical tips to enhance teamwork, reduce risks, and embrace a culture of continuous innovation. Laura delves into how a shared language between contracts and code can unlock opportunities for groundbreaking projects, showcasing transformative synergies that drive tech advancements. Questions to ponder include preemptively solving communication challenges between tech and legal teams, adapting to evolving tech landscapes, and innovative tools fostering deeper cooperation. This session is open to tech enthusiasts, legal professionals, developers, and anyone intrigued by the intersection of technology and law. We're setting the stage for a dialogue that promises to enlighten and inspire actionable change in your organizations and projects. Prepare to be amazed as we peel back the layers of collaboration, transforming how legal and tech teams interact. Bring your curiosity, questions, and insights to this engaging discussion as we navigate the complexities of translating between contracts and code, charting a course toward a more integrated, innovative future. In this engaging episode, Laura Jeffords Greenberg discusses her journey from aspiring sports lawyer to tech legal expert, highlighting her experiences as the first in-house lawyer at multiple tech companies. Laura emphasizes the importance of building relationships with developers, understanding their work, and integrating legal advice seamlessly into the tech development process. She shares her approach to effective communication, stressing the value of learning basic coding and documenting interactions to avoid misunderstandings. The conversation covers the shift to asynchronous communication, especially in distributed teams, and how it can enhance productivity and collaboration. Laura provides examples of using tools like DocuSign and Legal OS to streamline repetitive tasks and leverage AI for more efficient workflows. The discussion also touches on the necessity of setting boundaries and prioritizing mental health to maintain a sustainable work-life balance. Learning Outcomes: Effective Communication Strategies: Practical tips for building strong relationships with developers, understanding their work, and fostering mutual respect and collaboration. Asynchronous Communication: Enhancing productivity in distributed teams by adopting asynchronous communication, allowing for better time management and reducing the need for real-time interactions. Leveraging Technology: Benefits of using AI and other tools to automate repetitive tasks, improve documentation, and enhance the efficiency of legal teams. Setting Boundaries: The importance of setting boundaries to maintain a healthy work-life balance and improve overall work quality. Continuous Learning: The value of continuously learning and adapting to new technologies to stay relevant and effective in a rapidly evolving tech landscape. Join us for a fascinating discussion that bridges the gap between contracts and code, offering valuable insights and practical advice for legal professionals and tech enthusiasts alike. Don't miss this opportunity to transform how you approach collaboration in your organization.

In this episode of Notes to my (Legal) Self, join experts Humira Noorestani and Kassi Burns as they navigate the complex world of AI governance and risk management. As AI becomes an integral part of our daily lives, understanding its implications is crucial, especially for in-house legal teams. This session unpacks the National Institute of Standards and Technology's (NIST) AI Risk Management Framework (AI RMF), a key tool in shaping ethical AI practices and setting industry standards. Unlike the stringent legal requirements of the EU AI Act, the NIST AI RMF offers a voluntary, adaptable approach, emphasizing trust, innovation, and effective risk mitigation. You'll learn how to use this framework to manage AI risks effectively within your organization. Humira and Kassi delve into what an AI audit entails, discussing the triggers for conducting one, such as security breaches, regulatory requirements, and periodic reviews. They also explore the significance of New York City's Local Law 144, which mandates independent AI audits for automated employment decision tools, ensuring fairness and transparency in hiring processes. The conversation then shifts to the NIST AI RMF, highlighting its four core elements: governance, mapping, measurement, and management. These elements serve as a roadmap for organizations to understand and mitigate AI risks. They stress the importance of starting with AI mapping to identify and categorize AI systems, which is the first step in conducting comprehensive audits. For in-house legal teams, understanding and implementing these frameworks is vital. The speakers emphasize the need for a multidisciplinary approach, involving various stakeholders to ensure transparency and accountability. They also share practical tips on maintaining detailed documentation and engaging in continuous learning to stay ahead in this rapidly evolving field. By the end of this episode, you will: Understand the structure and significance of the NIST AI RMF in managing AI risks. Learn actionable strategies for conducting AI audits and developing robust AI governance policies. Explore the future of AI governance and its impact on legal practices, gaining insights into how to stay informed and adaptable. Whether you're a legal professional, tech enthusiast, or simply curious about AI governance, this episode provides valuable insights and practical advice. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from leading experts and prepare your organization for the future of AI.

Ever wondered how to stay ahead in the rapidly changing world of corporate law? Tune in to an eye-opening episode with the innovative Peter Connor, Founder & CEO of AlternativelyLegal, as he delves into "The Future of In-House Legal Mastery: Becoming a T-Shaped Lawyer." Peter introduces a transformative approach that redefines success and effectiveness for in-house lawyers, general counsels, and legal departments. He demystifies the 'dark art' of legal practice, revealing what elevates some legal professionals above their peers in corporate environments and law firms. Peter shares his extensive experience, highlighting the T-Shaped Lawyer Framework™, which combines deep legal expertise with broad business and technological skills. This framework helps legal professionals develop a balanced skill set, ensuring they remain competitive and effective in their roles. Discover practical knowledge from Peter's journey, including insights from his latest book, "The T-Shaped Lawyer: A New Vision for You and Your Work." Join us to explore how becoming a T-Shaped Lawyer can significantly advance your career. Peter explains how embracing this framework equips you to navigate the evolving landscape of corporate law, making you more adaptable and resilient in the face of discontinuous change. He offers actionable advice for lawyers at every career stage, from junior associates to senior leaders, on how to implement business partnering and leadership to add immense value to their organizations. In this engaging, fun, and educational episode, you’ll gain: Insights into the T-Shaped Lawyer concept and its importance. Practical steps to develop a T-shaped skill set and mindset. Strategies for providing business input and advice alongside legal expertise. Examples of how to engage in business partnering and leadership. The significance of aligning personal vision with professional goals. Peter’s approach not only prepares you for the future of law but also empowers you to excel and add significant value in your role. Whether you're just starting your legal career or are a seasoned professional, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to thrive in the dynamic world of corporate law. Don't miss out on this opportunity to transform your approach and become a T-Shaped Lawyer.

In this episode of Notes to my (Legal) Self, you’ll dive into the future of justice as we sit down with Judge Scott U. Schlegel, a trailblazer in integrating artificial intelligence into legal proceedings. With a career marked by innovation and a dedication to improving the justice system, Judge Schlegel shares his insights on how AI is transforming the courtroom, from digitizing court calendars to potentially reshaping how justice is served. Discover how Judge Schlegel's journey began, transitioning from a prosecutor to a judge determined to modernize the legal process. Hear firsthand about his early challenges and successes in implementing technology to streamline court operations. You’ll learn about the crucial role AI can play in reducing backlogs and improving access to justice, making the legal system more efficient and effective for everyone. Judge Schlegel also delves into the ethical and practical implications of AI in the courtroom, highlighting the balance between embracing technology and maintaining fairness. You’ll explore the fascinating yet concerning realm of deepfakes, understanding the potential risks they pose in legal settings and the measures needed to authenticate evidence reliably. The conversation doesn’t shy away from the complexities of consensus-building among various legal stakeholders. Judge Schlegel offers practical advice for legal professionals on how to start integrating AI into their practices responsibly. He emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and experimentation with AI tools, urging you to embrace the challenges and opportunities that come with technological advancements. By the end of this episode, you will: Understand how AI is currently being used to improve efficiency and access to justice in courtrooms. Recognize the ethical considerations and practical challenges of implementing AI in the legal system. Be aware of the potential risks associated with deepfake technology in legal proceedings and the importance of robust evidence authentication. Gain practical insights on how to start integrating AI into your legal practice responsibly, fostering innovation while upholding ethical standards. Join us for this engaging, thought-provoking discussion with Judge Scott U. Schlegel and take a step into the future of justice. Embrace the possibilities and prepare to be inspired by the transformative power of AI in the legal world.