The Path & The Practice
The Path & The Practice is a podcast from the law firm Foley & Lardner LLP that explores the professional origin stories of its attorneys. Each episode features Alexis Robertson, the firm's Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, in a one-on-one conversation with a different lawyer. Guests share their backgrounds, their route to law school, and how they came to join Foley & Lardner. The show highlights the diverse experiences and perspectives these attorneys bring to the practice of law, offering personal stories that never appear in a professional bio.
Episodes
Episode 146 - Lawrence Kraus talks pro bono, litigation, and the importance of building autonomy early in your career
This episode features a conversation with Lawrence Kraus. Larry is a litigation partner in Foley’s Boston office. He is also the litigation practice group leader for Foley’s Atlantic region (Boston, New York, and D.C.) and National Chair of the firm’s Pro Bono Committee. In this conversation, Larry reflects on growing up in the Bronx, attending Brandeis University for undergrad and attending Harva
Episode 144 - Tim Gamache talks being a summer associate, patent prosecution, biology and the importance of exploring interests
This episode features a conversation with Tim Gamache. Tim is a patent agent who recently finished Foley’s summer associate program in the Boston office. In this discussion, Tim reflects on growing up in Gardner, MA, earning her BS in neuroscience from Brown University and his PhD from Johns Hopkins Medical School before starting law school at Northeastern University. Tim reflects on his journey t
Episode 145 - Alice Lee-Dutra talks being a senior patent agent, chemistry, and the importance of internships
This episode features a conversation with Alice Lee-Dutra. Alice is a senior patent agent in Foley’s San Diego office. In this discussion, Alice reflects on growing up in Los Angeles, CA, attending Harvey Mudd College for undergrad and earning her PhD. From the University of California, Berkeley. Alice reflects on her journey to Foley, including her decade as a scientist at Johnson & Johnson b
Episode 143 - Daniela Valladares talks being a summer associate, accounting, litigation, and maximizing opportunities
This episode features a conversation with Daniela Valladares. Daniela is a summer associate in Foley’s Chicago office focused on litigation. In this discussion, Daniela reflects on growing up in McAllen, TX, and earning her BA and Masters in accounting from The University of Texas at Austin before attending Texas Tech University School of Law. Daniela reflects on her experience as a summer associa
Episode 142 - John Stillman talks being a summer associate, golf, transferring law schools, and the importance of embracing challenges heads on
This episode features a conversation with John Stillman. John is a summer associate in Foley’s Chicago office focused on litigation. In this discussion, John reflects on growing up in Oak Law, IL, and earning his BA and Masters, in business administration, from the Bradley University before attending the University of Wisconsin Law School and transferring to Notre Dame Law School. John reflects on
Episode 141 - Peyton Recer talks being a summer associate, relationship building, real estate, and the importance of authenticity
This episode features a conversation with Peyton Recer. Peyton is a summer associate in Foley’s Tampa office focused on real estate. In this discussion, Peyton reflects on growing up in Windermere, FL, and earning her BA and Master’s degree, in real estate, from the University of Florida before attending University of Miami School of Law. She shares her approach to law school, including how she st
Episode 140 - Donavon Lea talks being a summer associate, astrology, health law, and the importance of embracing a learner’s mindset
This episode features a conversation with Donavon Lea. Donavon is 2L summer associate in Foley’s Los Angeles office focused on health care. In this discussion, Donovan reflects on growing up in Virginia Beach, VA, and earning his BA and MPH from the University of Virginia before attending UCLA for law school. He reflects on the variety of work experience he gained in undergrad, including serving a
Episode 139 - Tim Casey talks the responsibilities of a general counsel, following your heart, and artificial intelligence
This episode features a conversation with Tim Casey, General Counsel of Numotion. In this discussion, Tim reflects on growing up in Lindenhurst, IL, and attending Lewis University for undergrad before earning his master’s and then J.D. from Marquette University. He reflects on the early days of being a lawyer, including clerking for a district and circuit court as well as working as an associate a
Episode 138 - Alexis Juergens talks being a D1 swimmer, IP litigation, Foley’s associates committee, and the importance of making time for what you love
This episode features a conversation with Alexis Juergens. Alexis is a senior counsel in Foley’s Salt Lake City office and chair of the firm's associates committee. In this discussion, Alexis reflects on life growing-up in a military family, including a number of moves, before settling in Salt Lake City as a child. She shares her decision to attend Northern Arizona University for undergrad, as a D
Episode 137 - René Jovel talks life as an in-house lawyer, advice to outside counsel, and the importance of knowing when to ask for help
This episode features a conversation with René Jovel, Assistant General Counsel at Versiti Blood Health, Inc. In this discussion, René reflects on growing up in Los Angeles, California, attending Northwestern University for undergrad and Marquette University School of Law. René details his career progression from working in a state senator’s office as a constituent services representative, to join
Episode 136 - Chanley Howell talks being a technology lawyer, artificial Intelligence, and the importance of finding a firm culture aligned with who you are
This episode features a conversation with Chanley Howell. Chanley is a partner and intellectual property lawyer in Foley’s Jacksonville office where his practice focuses on a broad range of technology law matters. In this discussion, he reflects on growing up in Jacksonville, FL, attending Vanderbilt University for undergrad and the University of Florida College of Law. Chanley shares his path to
Episode 135 - Jesse Neil talks the intersection of public policy and healthcare operations, joining Foley as a lateral partner, and the importance of embracing unique opportunities
This episode features a conversation with Jesse Neil. Jesse is a healthcare attorney in Foley’s Nashville office. In this discussion, he reflects on growing-up in Nashville, TN, attending the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill for undergrad and the University of Mississippi School of Law. Jesse shares his personal journey, including working as an assistant attorney general and spending ne
Episode 134 - Joe Dowdy talks litigation, solving client problems, the Raleigh office, and the importance of being human
This episode features a conversation with Joseph Dowdy. Joe is a litigator and the managing partner of Foley’s Raleigh office. In this discussion, he reflects on growing-up on farm in Powells Point, NC, attending the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill for undergrad and the University of North Carolina School of Law. Joe details his legal journey, including the pivotal years he spent servi
Episode 133 - Casey Knapp talks employee benefits, practice pivots, and being your best self
This episode features a conversation with Casey Knapp. Casey is a partner in Foley’s executive compensation and employee benefits group. She is also vice chair of the firm’s Business Law Department and chair of the firm’s Best Self Committee. In this discussion, she reflects on growing up in Mequon, WI, earning her undergraduate degree from Sweet Briar College and subsequently attending Washington
Episode 132 - Special Episode: Alexis Robertson and Dan Sharpe talk advice to new Big Law associates
In this special edition of The Path & The Practice, Alexis is joined by Dan Sharpe, DEI Manager at Foley & Lardner, for a conversation focused on advice to new associates. Based on their years of legal practice and their experience working in law firm talent development and DEI, they cover a variety of topics including time entry, meeting deadlines, responsiveness, and office presence. They also d
Episode 126 - Michael Small talks bankruptcy, being a fully integrated person, and the importance of pursuing passions out of the practice of law
This episode features a conversation with Michael Small a restructuring and litigation partner in Foley’s Chicago office. In this discussion, he reflects on growing-up in Kansas City, Missouri, attending Brown University for undergrad and earning his J.D. from the University of Chicago Law. Michael also discusses his experience earning his Master’s from The Jewish Theological Seminary and his dec
Episode 131 - Special Episode: Patrick McMahon, Alexa Goldstein, and Rashad Abdallah talk life in Big Law as military veterans
This special edition of The Path & The Practice welcomes members of Foley’s Veterans & Allies Affinity Group, Patrick McMahon (Senior Counsel, Labor & Employment, Chicago), Alexa Goldstein (Associate, Litigation, Tampa), and Rashad Abdallah ( Associate, Labor & Employment, San Diego). Representing three branches of the United States Armed Forces (Airforce, Army, and Navy), Patrick, Alexa, and Rash
Episode 130 - Marshall Keen talks being a summer associate, navigating uncertainty as a law student, and the importance of working hard, being humble, and teachable
This episode features a conversation with Marshall Keen a summer associate in Foley’s Dallas office. In this discussion, he reflects on growing-up in Blanchard, Louisiana, earning his undergraduate degree from Louisiana Tech University and attending SMU Dedman School of Law. Marshall discusses how he completed undergrad in three years and shares why SMU Law was his first choice. He also gives adv
Episode 129 - Tai Shiow talks being a summer associate, working as a patent agent, and the importance of working before law school
This episode features a conversation with Chemutai Shiow a summer associate in Foley’s Milwaukee office. In this discussion, she reflects on growing up in Franklin, Wisconsin, earning her undergraduate degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and subsequently attending the University of Chicago Law School. Tai details her unique path to Foley that included working at Foley for over three ye
Episode 128 - Nandita Raghavan talks being a summer associate, deferring law school, and the importance of knowing who you are
This episode features a conversation with Nandita Raghavan a summer associate in Foley’s Los Angeles office. In this discussion, she reflects on growing up in Pleasanton, California, earning her undergraduate degree from the University of Southern California and subsequently attending the USC Gould School of Law. Nandita discusses on her decision to defer attending law school to teach for two year
Episode - 127 Nick Jerschefske talks being a summer associate, serving in the U.S. Army, liking the things you’re good at, and the importance of not self-selecting out of opportunities
This episode features a conversation with Nick Jerschefske a summer associate in Foley’s Milwaukee office. In this discussion, he reflects on growing up in Franklin, Wisconsin, earning his undergraduate degree from the University of Maryland Global Campus and subsequently attending Marquette University Law School. Nick details the nearly a decade he spent focused on a career in music and the vario
Episode 126 - Randall Carter talks being a summer associate, attending law school later in life, and the importance of preparing for interviews
This episode features a conversation with Randall Carter a summer associate in Foley’s Boston office. In this conversation, he looks back on growing up in Cambridge, Massachusetts, attending Colgate University for undergrad and attending Harvard Law School, after transferring from Northeastern University School of Law. Randall reflects on the jobs he held before law school, discusses his transitio
Episode 125 - Kimberly Klinsport talks litigation, a people-based approach to career development, and the importance of building and maintaining relationships
This episode features a conversation with Kimberly Klinsport a litigation partner in Foley’s Los Angeles office where she is also the Office Managing Partner. In this discussion, she reflects on growing-up in Palos Verdes, California, attending the University of Southern California for undergrad and earning her J.D. from Loyola Law School. She explains her decision to join Foley as a lateral assoc
Episode 124 - David Goroff talks litigation, the hustle factor, and the importance of embracing unexpected opportunities
This episode features a conversation with David Goroff. David is a litigation partner in Foley’s Chicago office where he is also chair of Foley’s appellate practice group. In this discussion, he reflects on growing-up in Skokie, IL, attending the University of Illinois for undergrad, earning his J.D. from Columbia Law School, and clerking for the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit. Davi
Episode 123 - Bill McKenna talks life as a trial lawyer, winning and losing, and the importance of thinking ahead
This episode features a conversation with William McKenna. Bill is a litigation partner in Foley’s Chicago office. In this discussion, he looks back on growing-up in Hinsdale, Illinois, attending Middlebury College for undergrad and earning his J.D. from the University of Chicago Law School. Bill also reflects on over 40 years of practice, including Foley’s merger with Hopkins & Sutter in the earl
Episode 122 - Andy Wronski talks serving as Milwaukee Office Managing Partner, the professional arch of a litigator, and the importance of embracing a no regrets philosphy
This episode features a conversation with Andrew Wronski. Andy is a litigation partner in Foley’s Milwaukee office where he is also the office managing partner (OMP). In addition to serving is Milwaukee OMP, Andy is also chair of the Foley’s Manufacturing Sector. In this discussion, he reflects on growing-up in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, attending Marquette University for undergrad and earning his J.D.
Episode 121 - Lisa Glahn talks making professional pivots, being a construction attorney, and the importance of trusting your journey
This episode features a conversation with Lisa Glahn. Lisa is a partner and construction attorney in Foley’s Boston office, and vice chair of both the firm’s Litigation Department and Construction Practice Group. In this discussion, she reflects on growing-up in Center Township, Pennsylvania, attending Bucknell University for undergrad and earning her J.D. from Northeastern University School of La
Episode 120 - Special Guest Akshay Verma talks career pivots, legal operations, and the importance of embracing feedback
This episode features a conversation with special guest Akshay Verma. Akshay is COO at Spotdraft. In this discussion he details a path that began in New Delhi, India. He reflects on a childhood passion for sports and pop culture and details his journey, including his decision to attend UC Berkeley for undergrad, working as a paralegal in big law before attending Santa Clara University School of La
Episode 119 - Frank Pasquesi talks seeing around corners, the role of office managing partner, client service, and the importance of being confident in your work
This episode features a conversation with Frank Pasquesi. Frank is the managing partner of Foley’s Chicago office, where he focuses on health care and business litigation. In this discussion, he reflects on growing up in Highland Park, Illinois, attending Northwestern University for undergrad and earning his J.D. from Boston University School of Law. Frank shares the lessons he’s learned over 30 y
Episode 118 - Nathan Reardon talks student government, working in manufacturing, managing grief in law school, and the importance of asking questions
This episode of The Path & The Practice features a conversation with Nathan Reardon a summer associate with Foley’s Los Angeles office. In this discussion, Nathan reflects on growing up in Placentia, California, before attending the University of Southern California for undergrad and UCLA School of Law. Nathan discusses the nearly five years he spent working for PepsiCo and Keurig Dr. Pepper befor
Episode 117 - Christina Robertson talks adjusting to college, SEO, staying confident in law school, and the importance of being present
This episode of The Path & The Practice features a conversation with Christina Robertson a summer associate with Foley’s Houston office. In this discussion, Christina reflects on growing up in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and details her journey, as well as her difficulty adjusting, to Yale University and discusses her decision to attend New York University for law school. She also reflects on her expe
Episode 116 - Shiv Patel talks playing chess, moving to the U.S., the JCI/Foley fellowship, and the importance of tackling challenges one step at a time
This episode of The Path & The Practice features a conversation with Shiv Patel a 2L IP summer associate with Foley’s Milwaukee office. In this discussion, Shiv reflects on growing up in Adalaj, a small town in Gujarat, India, before attending SRM Institute of Science and Technology for undergrad and, after moving to the U.S., Wayne State University for his master’s and the University of Houston L
Episode 115 - Francesca Camacho talks working as a registered nurse, participating in the Foley/Mayo Clinic fellowship, and the importance of being intentional with how you spend your time
This episode of The Path & The Practice features a conversation with Francesca Camacho a 1L summer associate with Foley’s Boston office. In this discussion, Frankie reflects on growing up in Hampton, New Hampshire, and the suburbs of Atlanta, Georgia, before attending Marquette University for undergrad and Boston University School of Law. She shares about working as a nurse during the pandemic bef
Episode 114 - Meredith McDuffie talks working as a paralegal, securing a 1L summer associate position, connecting with peers as a summer associate, and the importance of remembering that you’re more than your GPA
This episode of The Path & The Practice features a conversation with Meredith McDuffie a 1L summer associate with Foley’s Chicago office. Meredith reflects on growing up in Oak Park, Illinois, and Carmel, Indiana, attending Boston University for undergrad and the George Washington University Law School. They discuss working as a paralegal for three years before attending law school. And, they shar
Episode 113 - Alexis Jackson talks graduating from college early, hustle in the law firm job search, and the importance of self-acceptance
This episode features a conversation with Alexis Jackson. Alexis is a litigation associate in Foley’s Tampa office. In this discussion, Alexis reflects on growing up in Pembroke Pines, Florida, attending Florida State University for undergrad and earning her J.D. at Georgetown University Law Center. She discusses growing-up in military family and being a first-generation college student. Alexis al
Episode 112 - Kate Beattie talks navigating imposter syndrome, labor & employment, and the importance of having an authentic approach to business development
This episode features a conversation with Kate Beattie. Kate is a partner in Foley’s Boston office focused on labor & employment. In this discussion, Kate reflects on growing up in Wilmette, Illinois, attending the College of Holy Cross for undergrad and Boston College Law School. She discusses working as a legislative aid in the Massachusetts House of Representative, while also earning her master
Episode 111 - Mikle Jew talks litigation, prioritizing client development, and the importance of building genuine connections with colleagues
This episode features a conversation with Mikle Jew. Mikle is a senior counsel in the San Diego office focused on litigation. In this discussion, Mikle reflects on growing up in San Diego, California, attending the University of California, San Diego, for undergrad and UCLA School of Law. He shares the challenges that he and his family overcame, discusses his decision to attend law school and join
Episode 110 - Tim Mohan talks restructuring, attorney well-being, and the importance of honesty, kindness, and fluidity as a junior attorney
This episode features a conversation with Tim Mohan. Tim is a senior counsel in Foley's Denver office focused on restructuring and bankruptcy litigation. In this discussion, Tim reflects on growing up in Decatur, Illinois, attending Tulane University and Wake Forest University School of Law. He discusses working in accounting for over four years, before attending law school. He also reflects on hi
Episode 109 - Special Episode: Joanne Molinaro, Amanda Beggs, and Kristin McGaver Sikora talk specialization in a legal career and navigating everyday life at a law firm
This special edition of The Path & The Practice welcomes Joanne Molinaro as guest host. Joanne is a Foley partner turned social media creator and New York Time's best-selling author. Joanne is in conversation with environmental senior counsel Amanda Beggs and litigation senior counsel Kristin McGaver Sikora. Their discussion explores the benefits of specialization in a legal career for both the at
Episode 108 - Special Guest: Rudhir Krishtel talks pivoting out of legal practice, meditation, business development, and the importance of courage and community
Description:
This episode features special guest Rudhir Krishtel. In this conversation, Rudhir reflects on attending the University of Michigan for undergrad, earning his J.D. from the University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law, and practicing for a decade at Fish & Richardson as a patent litigation partner, before working in-house for Apple. Rudhir reflects on why he pivoted away fr
Episode 107 - Sheridan Organ talks Mayo Clinic, being a dual-degree student, summering at Foley, and the importance of over communicating
This episode of The Path & The Practice features a conversation with Sheridan Organ a summer associate in Foley’s Boston office. Sheridan discusses growing up in Winnetka, Illinois, attending McGill University and Boston University School of Law. She reflects on working before becoming a dual-degree student, earning both her J.D. and Master of Public Health. Sheridan also discusses her experience
Episode 106 - Chris Truong talks biomedical engineering, being a JCI fellow, summering with Foley, and the importance of maximizing the law school experience
This episode features a conversation with Chris Truong a summer associate in Foley’s Milwaukee office. Chris reflects on growing up in Keller, Texas, attending Texas A&M University and the University of Illinois College of Law . He discusses working as a biomedical engineering before deciding to go to law school. He outlines his decision making in attending law school and what the initial transiti
Episode 105 - Rick Ali talks being a second career law student, being a summer associate, and picking a firm that doesn't give you the "Sunday scaries"
This episode features a conversation with Rick Ali, a summer associate in Foley’s Houston office. Rick reflects on growing up in Sugarland, Texas, attending Texas A&M University and South Texas College of Law . He shares his life prior to law school, which included working for his parents’ ATM company and real estate investing. Rick then shares his experience in law school and interviewing with Fo
Episode 104 - JP Riley talks life as a high-school music teacher, being a Foley summer associate, and the importance of being open to new things
This episode features a conversation with John (J.P.) Riley a summer associate in Foley’s San Diego office. JP reflects on growing up in Chesapeake, Virginia, attending James Madison University and the University of San Diego School of Law. He shares his life prior to law school, as a high-school music teacher, and discusses how his interest in school administration sparked the decision to attend
Episode 103 - Maame Yaa Norman talks growing-up in Ghana, earning her PhD, being a summer associate, and the importance of building relationships with your peers
This episode features a conversation with Maame Yaa Norman. Maame Yaa is a summer associate in Foley’s Milwaukee office. In this discussion, she reflects on growing-up in Accra, Ghana, earning her Bachelor of Science at Hampton University, her PhD from Carnegie Mellon University, and attending Indiana University Maurer School of Law. She reflects on moving to the U.S. for school, majoring in chem
Episode 102 - Steve Vazquez talks business development, mergers & acquisitions, being Cuban American, law firm growth/strategy, and law as a team sport
This episode features a conversation with Steve Vazquez. Steve is a transactional partner out of Foley’s Tampa office with a practice focused on M&A and securities related matters. Steve is also a former member of Foley’s management committee and the current chair of Foley’s Business Law Department. Steve attended Florida State University for undergrad and University of Florida College of Law. T
Episode 101 - Claude Treece talks life as a litigator, the business of law, the Foley/Gardere combination, and the importance of embracing change
This episode features a conversation with Claude Treece. Claude is a Partner in Foley’s Houston office. In 2016, after a career as a litigator, Claude was appointed to CEO of Gardere Wynne Sewell LLP. Foley and Gardere combined in 2018. Since that time, Claude has served as Foley’s Chief Administrative Partner and is a member of the firm’s management team. In this conversation, Claude reflects on
Episode 100 –100th Episode Special: Recruiting Roundtable with Kendall Waters, Tori Roessler, & Dan Sharpe
In celebration of the 100th episode of The Path & The Practice, Alexis Robertson welcomes Kendall Waters, Tori Roessler, and Dan Sharpe for a super-sized episode dedicated to exploring the path to legal practice. This is a candid discussion with members of Foley’s recruiting committee—Tori and Kendall—detailing how students can best prepare to interview with Foley, and other large law firms, as w
Episode 99 - Michael Wall talks being a general counsel for the Boston Bruins and Bauer Hockey, Foley’s sports & entertainment practice, and the importance of finding a practice that you enjoy
This episode features Michael Wall, of counsel in Foley’s Boston office. In this conversation, Michael reflects on growing-up in Lynn, MA, and attending the College of Holy Cross for undergrad and Boston College for law school. Michael discusses working in law firms the first six years of his career before moving in house and serving as Chief Legal Officer for the Boston Bruins and TD Garden for o
Episode 98 - Special Episode: Alexis Robertson talks networking, personal branding & social media
This is a special edition of The Path & The Practice, featuring the audio from a program that Alexis Robertson, Director of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion, delivered to 1Ls and 2Ls at the University of Minnesota Law School. In the discussion, she outlines how law students can grow their personal brand and expand their professional network through in-person, email, and social media interactions. It
Episode 97 - Ed Baxa talks working as a public defender, construction litigation, serving on the management committee, pro bono at Foley, and the game slowing down
This episode features Ed Baxa, a litigation partner in Foley’s Orlando office. In this conversation, Ed reflects on growing-up in Fairfax County, VA, and attending the University of Virginia for undergrad and law school. He discusses serving as a public defender after earning his J.D. and working for a small law firm before joining Foley, after about a decade of practice. Ed reflects on the growth
Episode 96 - Eric Williams talks owning a food truck franchise, Kappa Alpha Psi, attending law school later in life, the game of litigation, boiling crawfish and the importance of keeping an even keel
This episode features Eric Williams a litigation associate in Foley’s Houston office. In this conversation, Eric reflects on growing-up in Houston, TX, attending the University of Houston and South Texas College of Law. Eric discusses his journey to college and law school, a journey that included transferring colleges and working over a decade prior to law school. Eric reflects on the jobs he had
Episode 95 - Kate Clendenen talks life as a new attorney, early exposure to the courtroom, navigating law school, and the importance of embracing your authentic self as a new lawyer
This episode features Kate Clendenen a litigation associate in Foley’s New York office. In this conversation, Kate reflects on growing-up in Scotts Valley, CA, attending the University of California, Los Angeles, and attending New York University School of Law. Kate discusses her journey to college and law school, as well as her initial weeks as a brand new first year attorney at Foley. Kate refle
Episode 94 - Special Episode: Larry Perlman talks advice to new attorneys
On this special episode of The Path & The Practice, I welcome back Larry Perlman for a conversation packed with advice to new associates. Larry is a partner and member of Foley’s labor & employment group. He is also the litigation department’s training chair, the Miami office’s hiring partner, and a member of the firm’s recruiting committee. Prior to attending law school at the University of Michi
Episode 93 - Dan Sharpe talks playing baritone saxophone, pivoting in to IP, being DEI Manager, and the difference between a job and a career
This episode features Dan Sharpe. Dan sits in Foley’s Washington, D.C., office and recently joined Foley as Manager of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion. In this conversation, Dan reflects on growing-up in Voorhees, NJ, attending Princeton University and University of Virginia School of Law. He discusses spending two years as a Patent Examiner at the US Patent and Trademark Office before law school
Episode 92 - Ivory Djahouri talks being a Foley summer associate, attending law school part-time, working as an IP legal specialist, and the importance of prioritizing health and well-being
This episode features Ivory Djahouri, a 2022 summer associate in Foley’s Chicago office. In this conversation, Ivory reflects on growing-up in Chicago, IL, attending University of Illinois Chicago for undergrad and University of Illinois Chicago School of Law. Ivory reflects on the twists and turn on her journey to law school, including the years she worked as an IP Legal Specialist, prior to atte
Episode 91 - James Austin talks being a 1L Foley summer associate, working prior to law school, securing a 1L summer associate opportunity, and the importance of bringing your whole self to work
This episode features James Austin, a 2022 summer associate in Foley’s Chicago office. In this conversation, James reflects on growing-up in Flossmoor, IL, attending DePaul University for undergrad and Villanova University School of Law. James reflects on working for over 4 years before attending law school. He also discusses how he managed to secure a 1L summer associate position with Foley. He r
Episode 90 - Danny Costandy talks being a Foley summer associate, making a professional pivot while in law school, the Egyptian community, and the importance of having gratitude for difficult situations
This episode features Daniel Costandy, a 2022 summer associate in Foley’s San Diego office. In this conversation, Danny reflects on growing-up in Corona, CA, attending UC San Diego for undergrad and USC Gould School of Law. Danny reflects on growing up in the Egyptian community, his initial focus on being a doctor, and then a JAG officer. Danny shares why he decided to pivot, and after a 1L summer
Episode 89 - Aleyda Castro talks being a first generation American, Foley summer associate, and the importance of being your authentic self
This episode features Aleyda Castro, a 2022 summer associate in Foley’s New York office. In this conversation, Aleyda reflects on growing-up in the Westlake/MacArthur Park neighborhood of Los Angeles, attending Wesleyan University for undergrad and attending University of California, Law Angeles – School of Law. Aleyda also shares her experience being first generation, growing-up in a predominate
Episode 88 - Chris DeGennaro talks life as a prosecutor, cultivating trial skills, his new podcast, Black Connect and the importance of staying true to yourself
This episode features Chris DeGennaro, a litigation senior counsel in Foley’s New York office. In this conversation, Chris reflects on growing-up in Blue Bell, PA, attending Colgate University for undergrad and earning his J.D. from Fordham University School of Law. Chris reflects on his path to Foley, a path that included serving as an Assistant District Attorney and clerking for a federal distri
Episode 87 - Special Episode: Foley attorneys talk being underrepresented in Big Law, advice to junior lawyers, what's kept them at Foley, and OCI tips
This special edition of The Path & The Practice features the audio from a summer 2022 law school recruiting event featuring a candid discussion between diverse Foley attorneys. The conversation covers what it’s like to be a diverse attorney in Big Law, advice on the early days of one’s legal career, and the OCI/the law firm interview process. Additionally, each attorney reflects on why they chose
Episode 86 - Chelsea Hilliard talks Arabian horses, moving to Texas, navigating challenges, litigation, advice to summer associates, and the importance of being a sponge
This episode features Chelsea Hilliard a senior counsel in Foley’s Dallas office with a focus on litigation. In this conversation, Chelsea reflects on growing-up in Palos Verdes, CA, earning her undergraduate degree from Southern Methodist University as well as her J.D. from Southern’s Dedman School of Law. Chelsea reflects on her path, one that included competitive equestrian in college and navi
Episode 85 - John Litchfield talks children’s choir, part-time jobs, labor & employment, the LGBTQ community, and the importance of professional passion
This episode features a conversation with John Litchfield, a labor & employment partner in Foley’s Chicago office., John reflects on growing-up in Floosmoor, IL, attending Miami University for undergrad and earning his J.D. from Loyola University Chicago School of Law. John shares his path to Foley, one that included earning a master’s degree from The University of Edinburgh, part-time jobs, and e
Episode 84 - Special Episode: A conversation with Jen Patton, Leigh Riley, and Chris Ward on attorney mental health and well-being, Foley resources, and why it's okay to not be okay
This special edition of The Path & The Practice is dedicated to Mental Health Awareness Month. It features a conversation with Jen Patton (Chief Talent Officer), Leigh Riley (Partner, Employee Benefits), and Chris Ward (Partner, Labor & Employment) on attorney mental health and wellbeing. We share stories and experiences navigating difficulties in life, and highlight the many resources Foley & Lar
Episode 83 - Daljit Doogal talks being Foley’s Chairman & CEO, corporate practice, firm culture, family, and the importance of maintaining relationships
This episode features Daljit Doogal, Foley’s Chairman and CEO. Daljit is a corporate partner in Foley’s Detroit office with a practice focused on mergers & acquisitions, private equity, venture capital, and restructuring matters. In this conversation, Daljit reflects on being born in New Delhi, India, and living in London until the age of eight when he and his family immigrated to the U.S. He disc
Episode 82 - Pavan Agarwal talks Foley’s management committee, intellectual property litigation, industry sectors, leadership, and the importance of maintaining your network
This episode features a conversation with Pavan Agarwal. Pavan is a partner in Foley’s Washington, D.C., office with a practice focused on intellectual property litigation and licensing. Pavan is currently Chair of the firm’s Innovative Technology sector and formerly served as Chair of the Intellectual Property Department and member of the Management Committee. In this discussion, Pavan reflects o
Episode 81 - Anne Sekel talks the responsibilities of an office managing partner, litigation, jury duty, and the importance of being present
This episode features a conversation with Anne Sekel. Anne is a partner in Foley’s New York office with a practice focused on litigation matters. She serves as the managing partner of the firm's New York office and as the New York office's chair of litigation. In this discussion, Anne reflects on growing-up in Jersey City, New Jersey, attending Columbia University and Benjamin N. Cardozo School of
Episode 80 - Christopher Rasmussen talks growing-up in Louisiana, being a musician, corporate practice, and the importance of flexibility on your professional path
This episode features a conversation with Christopher Rasmussen. Chris is a partner in Foley’s Chicago office with a practice focused on transactional matters. In this discussion, Chris reflects on growing-up in Slidell, Louisiana, attending the University of Southern Mississippi and the Indiana University Maurer School of Law. Chris discusses the many years he spent working as a professional musi
Episode 79 - Dania Abbasi talks immigrating from Pakistan, marching band, teaching English abroad, litigation and government enforcement, advice to new lawyers, and the importance of taking law school classes that peak your curiosity
This episode features a conversation with Dania Abbasi. Dania is a litigation associate in in Foley’s Houston office. In this discussion, Dania reflects on growing-up in San Antonio, Texas, attending the University of Texas at Austin and the University of Houston Law Center. Dania discusses being born in Karachi, Pakistan, and moving to Texas with her family when she was 3. She looks back on her d
Episode 78 - Nicholas Johnson talks childhood hijinks, the Great Recession, environmental and food law, the LGBT community in Milwaukee, and the importance of finding a practice that suits you
This episode features a conversation with Nicholas Johnson. Nick is a senior counsel in Foley’s Milwaukee office with a practice focused on environmental law and food-related regulatory matters. In this discussion, he reflects on growing-up in Hudson, WI, attending Northwestern University for undergrad and the University of Illinois College of Law. Nick reflects on adjusting to life in law school
Episode 77 - Felicia O'Connor talks transferring during law school, labor & employment, chairing Foley's associates committee, and cultivating resilience
This episode features a conversation with Felicia O’Connor. Felicia is a senior associate in Foley’s Detroit office with a practice focused on labor & employment. In this discussion, Felicia reflects on growing-up Santa Cruz, CA, attending the University of California, Berkley, and the University of Michigan Law School. Felicia discusses the near-decade that she worked in tech prior to attending l
Episode 76 - Jonathan Israel talks working in-house for the NBA, Labor & Employment, co-chairing Foley’s Sports & Entertainment Industry Team, and the importance of taking ownership of your career
This episode features a conversation with Jonathan Israel a partner in Foley’s New York, an experienced labor & employment attorney, and co-chair of Foley’s Sports & Entertainment Industry Team. In this discussion, Jon reflects on growing-up in Palos Verdes, CA, attending Harvard University for undergrad and Columbia Law School. He also reflects on his decision to focus on labor & employment and h
Episode 75 - Lori Taylor talks attending journalism school, working in the securities industry, OCI during the Great Recession, litigation, and the importance of trusting that things will work out
This episode features a conversation with Lori Taylor. Lori is a senior counsel in Foley’s Chicago office. Her practice includes variety of commercial litigation matters complex securities disputes, commercial foreclosures, commercial contract disputes and product liability defense. In this discussion, Lori reflects on growing-up in Palatine, IL, attending the University of Missouri-Columbia for u
Episode 74 - Rebecca Bradley talks clerking for a federal judge, law firm recruiting, leading Foley’s professional development department, and the importance of being willing to help and learn new things
This episode features a conversation with Rebecca Bradly. Rebecca is Foley’s Director of Professional Development. In this discussion, Rebecca reflects on growing-up in Los Gatos, California, attending The University of California, Los Angeles, for undergrad and Northwestern University Pritzker School of Law. During the discussion, Rebecca shares her initial interest in becoming a prosecutor and r
Episode 73 - Andrew Lee talks joining Foley as a lateral, being GC of the NY Jets, sports and entertainment, NFTs, and the importance of remaining open to new experiences
This episode features a conversation with Andrew Lee. Andy is of counsel in Foley’s New York office with a practice focused on a wide array of matters related to the sports, media, and entertainment industries. In this discussion, Andy reflects on growing-up in Eastchester, New York, attending American University and Fordham University School of Law. Andy also shares how he built his sports and e
Episode 72 - Shiva Sandill talks growing-up in a military family, joining Foley as a lateral, business development, and the importance of self-awareness
This episode features a conversation with Shiva Sandill. Shiva is a partner in Foley’s Chicago office with a practice focused on corporate transactions. In this discussion, Shiva reflects on growing-up in military family, attending college at Howard University, and law school at Boston College. Shiva shares why he switched his focus from med school to law school and reflects on his experience as a
Episode 71 - Steven Chameides talks serving as a JAG officer during Vietnam, Naval architecture, hybrid litigation/corporate practice, and the importance taking on challenges
This episode features a conversation with Steven Chameides. Steve is a partner in Foley’s Washington D.C. office, with a practice focused on corporate transactions, financing, and international trade. In this discussion, Steve reflects on growing-up in Queens, NY, and attending the University of Michigan for both college and law school. He also shares about the four years he spent as an officer in
Episode 70 - Sarah Slack talks being a French major, earning a Master’s in Environmental and Land Use Planning , environmental law, and the importance of being intentional
This episode features a conversation with Sarah Slack. Sarah is a partner in Foley’s Madison office with a practice focused on environmental law. She is also the Madison office hiring partner and co-chair of Foley’s National Women’s Network. In this discussion, Sarah reflects on growing up in Sun Prairie, WI, attending Grinnell College and the University of Iowa where she earned her J.D. and Mast
Episode 69 - Katy Califa talks intellectual property, being Chicana in Big Law, thriving as an introvert, and the importance of client interests serving as your North Star
This episode features a conversation with Katherine Califa. Katy is a partner and intellectual property lawyer. A key focus of her practice is counseling clients regarding the selection, registration and enforcement of brands and other intellectual property assets in the United States and abroad. In this discussion, Katy reflects on growing-up in Silver Spring, MD, attending Wellesley College and
Episode 68 - Laura Ganoza talks fashion, apparel, and beauty, her hybrid IP/litigation practice, being a women of color partner, and the importance of believing that you deserve to be where you are
This episode features a conversation with Laura Ganoza. Laura is a partner in Foley’s Miami office with a practice focused on commercial litigation and intellectual property related matters. Laura is the chair of the Miami office’s litigation practice and the co-chair of Foley’s Fashion, Apparel, and Beauty Industry Team. In this conversation, Laura reflects on growing-up in Hialeah, Florida, atte
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