Notes To My (Legal) Self

Embark on an enriching exploration of personal and professional growth in the legal sphere with this episode of Notes to My (Legal) Self, featuring the inspiring Gisele Kalonzo-Douglas. Titled "What's Your More?" this conversation dives deep into the significance of looking beyond the conventional pathways in a legal career and embracing a broader definition of success. Gisele, an accomplished legal counsel and expert in risk mitigation, corporate governance, and diversity, shares her journey from her early days in the Democratic Republic of The Congo to her pivotal role in New York. Her narrative is one of resilience, embracing opportunities, and challenging the status quo to find 'more' in both life and work. This episode goes beyond legal expertise—it's a profound look at identity, purpose, and the transformative power of introspective questions like "What's my more?" Whether you're a legal professional seeking deeper meaning or someone curious about the intersection of personal history with professional trajectories, the dialogue between Gisele and host Olga Mack offers valuable lessons that resonate across professions. Learning Outcomes: Resilience in Professional Paths: Understand the role of personal background in shaping one's professional journey and the importance of resilience in overcoming career and life challenges. Joy and Fulfillment in Work: Learn about the significance of finding personal joy and fulfillment in your work, and how it contributes to sustained professional excellence and personal well-being. Holistic Approach to Career Development: Gain insights into balancing professional ambitions with personal growth, creating boundaries, and the importance of self-reflection in achieving a fulfilling career. Listeners will leave this episode equipped with strategies to navigate their professional journeys thoughtfully and inspired to broaden their perspectives on what constitutes true success. Join us to discover that the quest for 'more' can lead to the most rewarding personal and professional destinations.

Dive into a fresh episode of Notes to my (Legal) Self, featuring a captivating discussion with Chad Aboud, General Counsel at AudienceView. This episode turns traditional legal career paradigms on their head, presenting Chad's unique approach to legal leadership that focuses on selflessness, curiosity, and building genuine connections over mere competitive advancement. Discover how prioritizing the upliftment of others not only enhances personal fulfillment but also drives substantial professional growth, marking a more rewarding path to success beyond the usual benchmarks of titles and salaries. Throughout the conversation, Chad recounts his transformative journey from traditional legal roles to pioneering LegalTech innovations and leading scalable systems at AudienceView. His insights reveal the critical importance of stepping back to gain clarity and direction, reshaping one’s career trajectory towards more meaningful outcomes. Key learning outcomes from this episode include: Strategic Empathy: Learning the value of building relationships within the workplace that are rooted in understanding and mutual respect, and how these relationships can lead to innovative solutions and workplace fulfillment. Operational Truths in Negotiation: Gaining insights into effectively applying operational truths to streamline negotiations, reduce conflicts, and foster stronger business relationships. Self-Reflective Career Development: Embracing the power of self-reflection and curiosity to redefine one's career path and pursue roles that align more closely with one's values and aspirations. These insights are invaluable for legal professionals aiming to broaden their impact within their organizations and industries. Tune in to learn how you can harness these strategies to enhance your professional skills and achieve greater personal satisfaction and recognition in your legal career.

In this thought-provoking episode of Notes to My Legal Self, we explore the cutting-edge world of LegalTech with Dr. Louis Sanchez de Lozada, a seasoned expert in finance and law. As Director Legal Counsel at Unigestion, Dr. Sanchez brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for the integration of technology into legal frameworks. During our discussion, Dr. Sanchez walks us through the transformative power of smart contracts in streamlining the setup and management of investment funds. He breaks down complex concepts like DAOs (Decentralized Autonomous Organizations) and oracles, explaining their roles in modern legal processes and how they can revolutionize traditional legal operations by interfacing with real-world data and automating transactional tasks. Key Learning Outcomes: Understanding Smart Contracts: Gain a foundational understanding of how smart contracts can automate significant parts of the legal framework surrounding investment funds, including investor ID checks, investment receipts, and the issuance of security tokens. Insights into DAOs: Learn about the legal status and operational mechanics of DAOs, especially under Wyoming law, and how they offer a novel form of organizational structure using blockchain technology. Role of Oracles in LegalTech: Discover how oracles work as intermediaries by feeding external, real-time data to smart contracts, crucial for their operation and integration into broader legal and financial systems. Practical Applications of Blockchain Technology: Hear firsthand how these technologies are applied in the context of global asset management and the potential they hold for enhancing the efficiency and transparency of legal operations. Navigating Legal Frameworks: Understand the regulatory landscape for smart contracts in the UK, including their recognition as smart legal contracts, and how similar frameworks can be leveraged globally to ensure compliance and operational success. Whether you are just starting out in blockchain or looking to deepen your expertise in LegalTech, this episode offers valuable insights into the future of legal operations and investment management. Join us as we delve into a discussion that enlightens and inspires legal professionals to embrace and innovate with new technologies in their practices.

Welcome back to Notes to my (Legal) Self, where we delve into all things in-house law, from the nitty-gritty of contracts to the broader arcs of career management and community involvement. In this episode, we're joined by Mindy Berkower, Chief Client Officer and General Counsel at iRelaunch. Mindy brings a wealth of experience and insights from her journey through law, a significant career break, and a dynamic relaunch in a completely new role. Mindy shares her personal story of stepping away from the high demands of a big NYC law firm to raise her family. This decision led her on an 18-year hiatus filled with strategic volunteering and leadership roles in community organizations like the PTA. While challenging, this period equipped her with invaluable skills and experiences, reshaping her career trajectory. Our conversation today unpacks the practical steps Mindy took to relaunch her career, transitioning from law to marketing and back to legal in a more fulfilling capacity at iRelaunch. She emphasizes the importance of maintaining a professional identity through strategic volunteering, which kept her skills sharp and positioned her well for her return to the workforce. Here are some key takeaways from our discussion: Strategic Volunteering: Mindy illustrates how taking on leadership roles in volunteer settings can significantly bolster one's resume and keep one connected to their professional roots. Career Relaunch Insights: Sharing her journey back into the workforce, Mindy provides valuable strategies for others considering a similar path, highlighting the importance of flexibility, networking, and finding roles that align with one's evolved career goals and life balance. Whether you're considering a career break, in the midst of one, or plotting your return, this episode is packed with actionable advice and heartfelt stories to guide and inspire you. Dive into Mindy's journey and discover how you can navigate the challenges and opportunities of relaunching your career. Join us, share your thoughts, and explore what's possible when you bring your whole self to your career decisions.

Dive into the fascinating world of Web 3 and its potential to reshape the digital landscape on the latest episode of Notes to My (Legal) Self, titled "Can Web 3 Save the Internet?" Join us as we explore with Duane Valz, a seasoned legal mind with profound insights into the evolution of the internet from its early days to the present. With extensive experience at the intersection of technology, IP law, and machine learning, Duane brings a wealth of knowledge from his roles in top Silicon Valley firms and his current position as VP & General Counsel at Insitro. This episode delves deep into the transformative promises of Web 3, examining whether this new technological phase can address the privacy breaches, misinformation, and user exploitation that have marred the reputation of the current web. Duane discusses his firsthand experiences from Web 1.0 to Web 2.0, and now into the possibilities of Web 3.0, articulating a vision where technology not only connects but also empowers and respects the user. From a learning perspective, you'll gain insights into: The evolution of the internet, understanding the distinctions between Web 1.0, Web 2.0, and the emerging Web 3.0. The challenges and limitations of the current internet model, including privacy concerns and the concentration of power among a few digital giants. The potential of blockchain and other Web 3.0 technologies to create a more secure and user-centric internet, while also considering the significant hurdles they face, such as privacy implications and regulatory challenges. This engaging conversation not only enlightens on the technological aspects but also encourages active participation in shaping a digital future that is secure, equitable, and innovative. Join us in this thought-provoking exploration to understand how the next chapter of the internet could unfold and what it means for everyone who is a part of this digital era.

Are you ready to break the mold of conventional legal careers and carve your own path? Dive into an invigorating episode of Notes to My (Legal) Self, where we explore the intriguing and less-traveled roads within the legal landscape. This time, our spotlight shines on Kevin Keller, an engineer turned attorney whose career journey is as varied as it is fascinating. From being the first in-house legal support for some of the world’s largest tech moonshots to navigating the realms of privacy, intellectual property, and compliance, Kevin’s story is nothing short of inspiring. Kevin begins by reflecting on the traditional paths laid out by law schools—paths that often funnel graduates directly into big law firms, setting them on a track that seems predestined. However, his career trajectory is a testament to the power of taking risks and stepping off the beaten path. With candid insights into his roles across startups and major tech firms, Kevin discusses the pivotal decisions that shaped his career, including his brief stint at a small startup and his eventual move to become General Counsel at Snap Commerce. Through his narrative, you'll learn that the best career moves often defy expectations and require leaps of faith. Kevin emphasizes the importance of flexibility, open-mindedness, and the courage to pursue what truly resonates with your aspirations, even if it means venturing into the unknown. From this episode, you'll walk away with a richer understanding of: The value of exploring alternative career paths in law, beyond the traditional routes. Strategies for making career transitions that align more closely with personal and professional growth goals. The significance of mentorship and networking in forging a fulfilling legal career. This episode is not just a conversation; it's a call to rethink how you navigate your legal journey. Whether you're a seasoned attorney or a law student plotting your future, Kevin's experiences provide a valuable roadmap for anyone eager to challenge the status quo and make their mark in the legal world. So tune in, be inspired, and maybe even discover a new direction you hadn’t considered before. Don’t forget to nominate yourself or someone with a unique legal story to share—we’re always looking to learn from diverse experiences!

Dive into a riveting exploration of technology's potential to foster social justice in our latest episode of Notes to my (Legal) Self, featuring Fatima Jafri, Lead Product and Privacy Counsel at Meta. In this engaging conversation, Fatima unpacks her journey from aspiring diplomat to leading attorney for social impact, revealing the profound connections between law, technology, and societal change. In this episode, you'll journey through the challenges and triumphs of merging legal expertise with technology to make significant social impacts. Fatima shares her experiences managing Meta's Social Impact, Election, and Health product teams, offering an inside look at initiatives like the Blood Donation Products and the Covid-19 Information Hub. Her stories illuminate the complex landscape of legal and compliance issues, emphasizing technology's role as a transformative force for good. Prepare to be inspired by a discussion that not only traverses Fatima's personal path, shaped by her immigrant background and commitment to equality, but also delves into how technology companies like Meta are pivoting towards harnessing their immense reach for positive change. The conversation highlights critical themes such as the mitigation of misinformation during the COVID-19 pandemic and the proactive steps taken to amplify authoritative sources through innovative product strategies. From enhancing voter engagement through technology to tackling health misinformation, this episode is a treasure trove of insights on leveraging legal acumen to foster equity and access in the digital age. Whether you're a legal professional, tech enthusiast, or advocate for social justice, Fatima's experiences and strategies will equip you with the knowledge to impact your spheres of influence positively. Key Learning Outcomes: Understand the role of in-house counsel in leading technology companies and how they navigate complex legal landscapes to facilitate social good. Gain insights into the strategic integration of legal and product development processes to enhance public benefit and compliance. Discover the importance of cross-functional collaboration in crafting technology solutions that uphold and promote social justice. Join us for a compelling narrative that highlights the intersection of law and technology and encourages you to engage deeply with the content, raise your questions, and perhaps nominate someone who inspires you to explore new perspectives on legal practice and social impact.

Dive into the transformative journey of legal roles in tech on the latest episode of Notes to my (Legal) Self, titled "How to Launch a Product Counsel Role." We unravel the fascinating career transition of Robert Esposito from seasoned IP litigator to pioneering in-house product counsel. Once defending tech giants, Robert now shapes the legal frameworks of innovative products at Hillspire, influencing sectors like science, technology, and philanthropy. In this engaging discussion, we delve into what it truly means to be a product counsel, exploring the role's evolution within tech companies—a concept still being defined even among legal professionals and tech teams. The conversation sheds light on the myriad challenges faced across industries, emphasizing the unique intersections of law and cutting-edge technology. From this episode, you will learn: The Core Functions of a Product Counsel: Understand the multifaceted role of product counsels, from designing legal frameworks to partnering closely with engineering and marketing teams. Transitioning from Litigation to In-House: Gain insights on navigating the shift from traditional litigation roles to dynamic, in-house product-focused positions. Industry-Specific Legal Challenges: Discover how product counsels adapt their strategies across different sectors like social media, philanthropy, and digital entertainment, tailoring their approach to meet specific regulatory and consumer needs. Skills for Success: Learn about the essential skills and proactive mindset needed to thrive as a product counsel, including a deep passion for technology and a commitment to continuous learning. Whether you're a legal professional eyeing a shift to a product-focused role or simply intrigued by the nexus of law and technology, this episode offers invaluable perspectives that bridge traditional legal functions with the dynamic needs of modern tech enterprises. Join us to uncover how you can contribute to crafting legal solutions that foster technological advancement and innovation.

Dive into the exhilarating world of legal tech on the latest episode of Notes to My (Legal) Self, titled "Why Legal AI Needs Lawyers to Act Now" with Wei Chen. This episode features Wei Chen, SVP and Associate General Counsel at Salesforce, who delves into the critical role that legal professionals play in shaping the future of AI in law. With extensive experience in managing global transactions and a passion for AI education through The Atticus Project, Wei brings invaluable insights to the discussion. The conversation starts with Wei's background, highlighting her legal journey and the founding of The Atticus Project, which aims to improve AI's understanding of legal documents. Wei illustrates the surprising reality that AI technologies require massive, accurately annotated data sets to function effectively—a task that currently falls on the shoulders of skilled legal professionals. She emphasizes the importance of human-centric AI strategies that integrate the expertise of legal practitioners to enhance AI's capabilities in contract analysis and more. Learning outcomes from this episode include: Understanding the AI Training Process: Learn how AI tools require extensive training data and why the input from legal professionals is crucial for the accuracy and effectiveness of these technologies. The Role of Legal Professionals in AI: Discover the essential role lawyers play not just as users but as active contributors to the AI development process, helping shape tools that align with legal standards and practices. Action Steps for Legal Professionals: Gain insights into how you can contribute to AI projects like The Atticus Project, which not only advance the field but also offer practical training and experience to emerging legal talents. By the end of this enlightening discussion, you'll be inspired to consider how you can participate in and influence the development of AI tools that are set to transform legal practices. Wei's experience and forward-thinking approach offer a compelling vision of how integrating AI can make legal work more efficient, accurate, and rewarding. Join us to explore how the intersection of law and technology is a niche interest and a pivotal frontier for legal professionals today.

Welcome to another episode of Notes to My (Legal) Self, where we delve into the heart of what it means to be successful in the complex and demanding world of in-house legal practice. Today, we're joined by Adele Tegger, a seasoned attorney with over two decades of experience, currently serving as the Senior Legal Counsel in the Employment Law Group at Western Digital. Throughout her career, Adele has crafted a path that champions work-life balance over traditional career progression, challenging the pervasive notion that climbing to the top is the only marker of success. In our conversation, Adele shares her insights on the pressures of the legal profession, where the drive for the next promotion or big client often overshadows personal happiness and fulfillment. She advocates for a redefinition of success—one that allows individual lawyers to thrive in their roles without the constant chase for a higher title. Adele's journey through various prestigious companies and her decision to sometimes work part-time illuminates a different model of legal practice that prioritizes personal well-being and community involvement over conventional achievements. You will take away profound lessons from Adele’s experiences, particularly the importance of defining success on one's terms. The learning outcomes from this episode include: Understanding the value of personal well-being in the legal profession and its impact on professional effectiveness. Strategies for negotiating non-traditional career paths that align with personal values and life circumstances. Insights into maintaining a balanced life while fulfilling demanding professional roles and how this balance can lead to sustained career satisfaction. Whether you're a law student feeling the weight of future decisions, a legal professional questioning your career trajectory, or anyone in between, Adele’s story serves as a reminder that being a great lawyer also means being a fulfilled individual outside the courtroom or office. Join us as we explore how embracing a balanced life can lead to personal happiness and professional excellence in the legal field.