Let's Brief It

Host Jivan Ramesh sits down with trailblazing Congresswoman Sarah McBride of Delaware to discuss human rights, both globally and within the United States. The Congresswoman discusses the current state of human rights, Congress's role in protecting human rights, and her own work fighting for human rights, both before her time in elected office and now as an elected official.

Please note, the positions and opinions expressed by the speakers are strictly their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of their employers, nor those of the D.C. Bar, its Board of Governors or co-sponsoring Communities and organizations.

Financial regulation isn’t just about rules — it’s about curiosity and going beyond surface analysis. Professors Scott Alvarez (former GC to the Federal Reserve) and Laurie Schaffer (former Acting Assistant Secretary of the Treasury) join Let’s Brief It to demystify the world of financial regulation. They discuss their journeys through public service, the "art and science" of consumer protection, and why the current landscape offers unique opportunities for the next generation of attorneys.

From the historical meaning of “subject to the jurisdiction thereof” to the lasting impact of Wong Kim Ark, In this episode of Let’s Brief It, we break down the Supreme Court’s upcoming case Trump v. Barbara.

Joined by Leon Rodriguez and Wendy Feng, we explore how precedent, executive action, and constitutional interpretation collide and what longstanding interpretations shifts could mean for the Fourteenth Amendment and the future of citizenship in the United States.

Please note, the positions and opinions expressed by the speakers are strictly their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of their employers, nor those of the D.C. Bar, its Board of Governors or co-sponsoring Communities and organizations.

Nothing about this journey was random.

In this episode of Let’s Brief It, Byron D. Brooks “MoSoul” and Pauline Wanjiru Irungu step beyond the surface of law school to reflect on something deeper… the why behind their paths.

Before the readings, before the cold calls, before the courtroom dreams… there were moments that shaped them, decisions that defined them, and a purpose that refused to let go.

Byron shares how his journey, marked by adversity and resilience, from being born in prison, and formerly homeless became a foundation for pursuing justice through the law. Pauline reflects on her experience navigating new spaces as an international student, grounded in vision, discipline, and a commitment to impact.

Together, they explore what led them to law school, what sustains them in the process, and what they aspire to become within the legal profession.

This is not just about becoming lawyers…

it is about understanding the reason you started.

Because when you know your why,

every step forward carries intention.

Not by accident. Always on purpose.

Amanda and Sade speak with judges Tiffany Williams Brewer and the Alexander Williams about the complex relationship between judicial ethics, personal faith, and constitutional duty. Drawing on their experiences as a former federal judge and a scholar of professional responsibility, the guests examine how judges and lawyers balance personal values with professional obligations, the role of morality in shaping law and ethical rules, and the importance of integrity and public service in the legal profession. The discussion offers law students a thoughtful exploration of impartiality, judicial independence, and the ethical responsibilities that underpin the rule of law.

Please note, the positions and opinions expressed by the speakers are strictly their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of their employers, nor those of the D.C. Bar, its Board of Governors or co-sponsoring Communities and organizations.

Across the United States, the First Amendment has been under fire from a variety of sources. In this episode, host Jivan Ramesh sits down with two passionate lawyers to talk about their own experiences with the first amendment. Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty goes into the chilling effect of the ICE actions in Minneapolis on free speech, while Amy Greer of Dratel and Lewis discusses her experience representing Mahmoud Khalil after he, a lawful permanent resident and pro-Palestinian activist, was targeted for deportation just over a year ago.

Please note, the positions and opinions expressed by the speakers are strictly their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of their employers, nor those of the D.C. Bar, its Board of Governors or co-sponsoring Communities and organizations.

Resources:

Co-hosts Jivan Ramesh and Sophia Wang meet with two brilliant policymakers, Delaware Lt. Gov Kyle Evans Gay and VA-11 U.S. Rep. James Walkinshaw, for a discussion on policy making and how legislators view the law. They discuss how laws get made behind the scenes, and share insight on how law students and young lawyers can begin getting involved.

The Supreme Court has long relied on stare decisis, or the principle of following precedent, to ensure stability and legitimacy. But is that changing? In this episode, Amanda and Sade explore the Court’s evolving approach from Casey to Dobbs to Students for Fair Admissions with insights from constitutional law expert Beth Hecker and experienced litigation attorney Kimberly Russell on what the decline of stare decisis means for American law.

Please note, the positions and opinions expressed by the speakers are strictly their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of their employers, nor those of the D.C. Bar, its Board of Governors or co-sponsoring Communities and organizations.

AI is transforming the legal landscape, from lawsuits concerning training data to new regulations on model deployment. In this episode of Let’s Brief It, host Pauline Wanjiru Irungu, an LL.M. student at American University Washington College of Law specializing in intellectual property and technology law, discusses these developments with two experts from Finnegan: Anna Chauvet, partner and head of Finnegan’s copyright practice, who works on front line questions about AI training data, fair use, and authorship, and Lynn Parker Dupree, leader of Finnegan’s privacy practice and former Chief Privacy Officer at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, who brings a governance and data protection lens to AI.
Together, they examine the legal landscape of AI training data, evolving copyright and privacy rules, and essential questions regarding consent and accountability. This episode offers a practical guide for law students and early-career attorneys navigating the intersection of AI and law.

In this episode of Let’s Brief it, Dr. Megan Ma, the Executive Director of the Stanford Legal Innovation through Frontier Technology Lab (liftlab), sits down with GW Law student co-hosts, Sophia Wang and Jivan Ramesh, for a conversation on the future of legal education and practice in light of new technological developments. Dr. Ma discusses her lab’s work on improving evaluation of legal AI, developing simulation training via AI, and augmenting legal services with creative application of AI. Dr. Ma also shares insights on how law students can use AI effectively to stay competitive in an evolving legal environment.

What really happens after the signatures hit the page?
In this episode of Let’s Brief It, we step beyond the casebook and into the conference rooms where modern entertainment deals are shaped. Hosted by Howard Law 1L Byron D. Brooks (MoSoul), this conversation examines how contracts move culture, allocate power, and determine ownership in today’s global entertainment industry.
Joined by Alison Finley—Partner at Pierson Ferdinand and a seasoned entertainment executive with over 25 years of experience—we break down the legal architecture behind record deals, publishing agreements, licensing, branding, and cross-industry IP transactions. From negotiating leverage to balancing creative ownership with business imperatives, this episode offers an inside look at how real-world dealmaking works.

In this episode, hosts Amanda Hichez and Sade Ajayi sit down with GW Law 3L Daniel Remus Marante to unpack one of law school’s most infamous archetypes — the gunner. Together, they debunk common perceptions, explore what really drives that relentless ambition, and discuss the pressures of law school that push students to compete so fiercely. Candid, honest, and a little too relatable — this is one conversation every law student needs to hear.

Co-Hosts Jivan Ramesh and Sophia Wang have a conversation with two renowned animal law experts. The first is George Washington University Law School Professor Joan Schaffner, a frequent author on animal law who recently edited the Elgar Concise Encyclopedia of Animal Law. The second is American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Director of Federal Legislation Meredith Hou, a renowned expert on equine protection who contributed to that same encyclopedia. We chart the past, present, and future of animal law, and discuss how law students and young attorneys can begin getting involved.

Host Prisila Otazo explores how community initiatives can create lasting change and the pivotal role judges play in leading those efforts. Magistrate Judge Melanie Acuña of the Superior Court of the District of Columbia shares powerful stories about stepping up to support local causes and fostering stronger connections. They also reflect on how their shared involvement with the Hispanic Bar Association sparked this conversation, highlighting the power of collaboration in driving progress.

David Fathi, Director of the National Prison Project at the ACLU, joins co-host Tamya Anderson to discuss his work on protecting the rights of incarcerated persons in the U.S. With the U.S. having the highest incarceration rate in the world, the conditions in U.S. prisons are a pressing issue for the Project. David shares his perspective on the biggest problems in this system, his passion for social justice, and the ways that law students can get involved with this type of work.

In this exciting episode, host Prisila Otazo sits down with Vesna Harasic, a distinguished partner at Wiley law, to dive deep into the importance of gender diversity in the legal profession. With a wealth of experience and a passion for inclusivity, Vesna shares her journey to leadership, discusses the hurdles women face in law, and offers actionable insights on how the legal community can evolve to be more diverse and equitable. Don’t miss this thought-provoking conversation that will empower you to advocate for change and be part of the movement towards a more inclusive legal world.

Kelsi Corkran, Supreme Court Director for the Institute for Constitutional Advocacy and Protection and decorated civil rights advocate joins co-host Tamya Anderson to discuss the ins and outs of effective oral advocacy. From how to prepare for argument to the importance of effective legal writing, Kelsi shares essential tips for all future litigators.

In this powerful episode of Let’s Brief It, co-hosts Prisila Otazo and Tamya Anderson sit down with Marlene Otero, a licensed mental health therapist and attorney, to explore the intersection of mental health and the legal profession.

In today's episode, Dr. Adam Feldman, founder of the EmpiricalSCOTUS blog, joins Andrew Nettels to discuss litigation and the Supreme Court through a statistical lens. For more on Dr. Feldman's work: https://www.scotusblog.com/.

Please note, the positions and opinions expressed by the speakers are strictly their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of their employers, nor those of the D.C. Bar, its Board of Governors or co-sponsoring Communities and organizations.

Host Prisila Ngang Otazo chats with Apollo Yong, a litigation associate in Washington D.C., about how the legal profession is adapting to the needs and expectations of a new generation of lawyers. From starting out in litigation to finding balance in a demanding practice, we explore what it takes for young lawyers to thrive in today’s evolving legal landscape. Join us for practical advice, candid insights, and a relatable perspective on the early years of a legal career.

Please note, the positions and opinions expressed by the speakers are strictly their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of their employers, nor those of the D.C. Bar, its Board of Governors or co-sponsoring Communities and organizations.

Let’s Brief It returns for season six with new host for a shallow dive on Antitrust. Host Tamya Anderson is joined by Charles Moore on what the Antitrust/Competition practice area is, the governing law of the practice, and what he loves about his work.

Please note, the positions and opinions expressed by the speakers are strictly their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of their employers, nor those of the D.C. Bar, its Board of Governors or co-sponsoring Communities and organizations.

Ryan McCarl, author of “Elegant Legal Writing,” joins Andrew and Fabiola for a discussion of modern legal writing trends and their application to law students.

In this episode, we explore the dynamic relationship between lawyers and artificial intelligence, a topic gaining significant attention both in the U.S. and internationally. Our focus is on understanding whether AI is collaboratively working with lawyers or posing challenges to the legal profession (or perhaps it is doing both). Additionally, we explore a fascinating case dealing with ChatGPT: Mata v. Avianca, adding a real-world dimension to the discussion. Our goal is to navigate through the evolving landscape where law and AI intersect, contemplating the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for the legal profession, especially for law students soon entering the profession.

Host Furaha Joy Sekai Saungweme interviews Megan Cistulli, a dual-degree JD and MBA student at the University of Chicago and co-founder of Technology & Entrepreneurship Ladder, Inc., a STEM education nonprofit based in Nairobi, Kenya.

Please note, the positions and opinions expressed by the speakers are strictly their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of their employers, nor those of the D.C. Bar, its Board of Governors or co-sponsoring Communities and organizations.

In this episode, hosts Andrew Nettels and Fabiola Uwera discuss law and culture with Aarash Darroodi, the General Counsel of Fender Musical Instruments Corporation, the most famous and largest Guitar manufacturer in the world. 

Aarash shares how his cultural background and global perspective have profoundly shaped him and his professional trajectory. He recounts how he has been leveraging his cultural and linguistic skills to forge meaningful connections with individuals from different backgrounds, redefine the rules of engagement in business deals by bringing in a human touch, and effect positive change.

Please note, the positions and opinions expressed by the speakers are strictly their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of their employers, nor those of the D.C. Bar, its Board of Governors or co-sponsoring Communities and organizations.

Hosts DaJonna Richardson and Furaha Joy Sekai Saungweme interview Commissioner Immaculate Kassait, Kenya's first Data Commissioner and recognized amongst the top 25 Women in Digital in Kenya. Commissioner Kassait is serves in the Office of Data Protection, an office which has a mission to protect the personal data of Kenyans. 

Also joining us is Cynthia Chepkemoi, a legal practitioner licensed to practice in Kenya and one of the Founding Leaders of the Association of Privacy Lawyers in Africa (APLA). Ms. Chepkemoi is currently working as a Data Protection Officer at the Kenya Women Microfinance Bank PLC.

Today's episode discusses Kenya's data governance through privacy compliance, enforcement, public awareness, and institutional development of organizations in the country.

Please note, the positions and opinions expressed by the speakers are strictly their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of their employers, nor those of the D.C. Bar, its Board of Governors or co-sponsoring Communities and organizations.

Fabiola Uwera and Andrew Nettels explore legal investigation with Seana Holland. Seana discusses the responsibilities of a legal investigator, some of the most impactful cases she has been involved in, and shares advice to students on classes and clinics to consider.

Seana Holland teaches Investigation and served as the Director of Investigations at Georgetown University Law Center, where she oversaw investigations in adult and Juvenile Criminal Defense Clinics. Presently, she serves as the Director of Investigations at Levy Firestone Muse LLP.

Please note, the positions and opinions expressed by the speakers are strictly their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of their employers, nor those of the D.C. Bar, its Board of Governors or co-sponsoring Communities and organizations.

Host DaJonna Richardson interviews Matthew Skeen Jr., an expert in bankruptcy law. Matthew has been a partner in Skeen & Skeen, P.C. a boutique bankruptcy law firm in Denver, Colorado. Today he is a Managing Attorney of the Pro Se Clinic at the US District Court for the District of Colorado, a program run by the CO Bar Association, which has offered representation to clients in issues arising in the context of chapter 7, chapter 11, and chapter 13 bankruptcy petitions. Today's episode discusses bankruptcy, bifurcated fee agreements, and indigent petitioners.

Please note, the positions and opinions expressed by the speakers are strictly their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of their employers, nor those of the D.C. Bar, its Board of Governors or co-sponsoring Communities and organizations.

Are you a creative law student hoping to one day match your passion with your legal career? This episode is for you. 

Hardeep Grover joins Andrew and Fabiola to discuss his work with creative entrepreneurs and StartUps and how it has been fulfilling to support artists and members of the creative community in D.C. through Washington Area Lawyers for the Arts (WALA). 

Hardeep works with creative entrepreneurs in the technology, entertainment, and food & beverage industries and practices in California, NY, DC, Maryland and Virginia. 

Please note, the positions and opinions expressed by the speakers are strictly their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of their employers, nor those of the D.C. Bar, its Board of Governors or co-sponsoring Communities and organizations.

Are you in law school and thinking of making the move into entertainment law? In this episode, Andrew Nettels and Fabiola Uwera are joined by Kirk T. Schroder, who has over 20 years of experience in providing legal counsel and representation to clients in the entertainment and media industry, including film, television, music, literary publishing, theater, live stage, and art. 

Please note, the positions and opinions expressed by the speakers are strictly their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of their employers, nor those of the D.C. Bar, its Board of Governors or co-sponsoring Communities and organizations.

Liberia has a complex relationship with women, human rights and international law; purportedly this nation which was intended to be the safe haven for freed slaves demonstrated the worst examples of civil armed conflict and yet produced the first female African president and an example of the power and resilience of women to stand for justice, and equality in political spaces. Hosts Furaha Joy Sekai Saungweme and DaJonna Richardson learn the strength of women survivors of war through the deeply touching experience of Dr Veronica Fynn Bruey.

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Hosts Andrew Nettels and Fabiola Uwera are joined by Professor Jill Morrison, who serves as the Executive Director of the Women’s Law and Public Policy Fellowship Program (WLPPFP), and Leadership and Advocacy for Women in Africa (LAWA) Program at Georgetown University Law Center, where she also teaches a seminar on Reproductive Justice.

They talk about where the term “reproductive justice” emerged, its intersectional perspective, and how it differs from reproductive health and reproductive rights. Professor Jill also shares her experience in teaching a seminar on Reproductive Justice and recommends some books to law students.

Please note, the positions and opinions expressed by the speakers are strictly their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of their employers, nor those of the D.C. Bar, its Board of Governors or co-sponsoring Communities and organizations.

Hosts Furaha Joy Sekai Saungweme and DaJonna Richardson interview Samantha Mwesigye, a women's rights lawyer from Uganda with over 15 years experience practicing as a lawyer in government and private practice. 

They discuss sexual harassment in Africa, specifically in Uganda, through the lens of Samantha as a survivor of sexual harassment. Also part of the discussion are recommendations and critiques on what universities can do to strengthen interventions and better protect students from sexual harassment.

Andrew Nettels and Fabiola Uwera are joined by Professor Ira Sorkin to discuss his experiences prosecuting and defending those charged with some of the largest frauds in American history.

As discussed, our perception of what we often refer to as "White Collar Defense" might differ from its reality. Defense attorneys play an important role in standing between the power of government and those accused of a crime. Their work extends far beyond "criminal" defense -- it's safeguarding the very principles underlying our legal system.  The discussion also includes why one might consider practicing defense, and steps that they can take to further explore it.

Hosts DaJonna Richardson and Furaha Joy Sekai Saungweme interview Professor Antonio Anduaga, an expert in practicing international law in Peru and in the state of Colorado. They discuss the International Criminal Court, the aims of the Court to hold those responsible accountable for crimes against humanity and the parties subject to the Court’s jurisdiction. 

Professor Anduaga is a modern day renaissance man as he speaks Portuguese, Spanish, French, Latin, English and a bit of Japanese. Professor Anduaga hails from Peru and teaches International Law classes at the University of Denver Law and the University of Colorado Law.  

In the final episode of this season, Sydney Taylor, Niranjan Seshadri, Andrew Nettels, and Eric Tarosky come together to chat about their law school experiences, including favorite assignments, extracurriculars, and balancing a job and school. They also share tips on networking, taking chances, and asking questions, even if they may have "obvious" answers.

Hosts Eric Tarosky and Niranjan Seshadri interview the Honorable Philip A. Medley, Magistrate Judge of the Superior Court of the District of Columbia. They discuss Judge Medley’s path to the bench, the best and the hardest parts of being a judge, and advice to law students interested in becoming a judge one day.

Please note, the positions and opinions expressed by the speakers are strictly their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of their employers, nor those of the D.C. Bar, its Board of Governors or co-sponsoring Communities and organizations.

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Please Note: The D.C. Bar takes no position regarding candidates, parties, or views referenced in this content. The positions and opinions expressed by the speakers are strictly their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of their employers, nor those of the D.C. Bar, its Board of Governors or co-sponsoring Communities and organizations.

Sydney and Andrew are joined by Bria Wallace, a student at Southern University Law Center and former member of the Pete Buttigieg presidential campaign, to learn about careers in campaign canvassing and effective campaign strategies.

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Hosts Niranjan Seshadri and Eric Tarosky are joined by Washington D.C. area immigration attorney Pratibha Agarwal to discuss issues related to immigration law and life as an immigration law attorney.

Please note, the positions and opinions expressed by the speakers are strictly their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of their employers, nor those of the D.C. Bar, its Board of Governors or co-sponsoring Communities and organizations.

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Andrew and Sydney are joined by Dean Jessica Tillipman from The George Washington University Law School to explore various career paths under the expansive umbrella of government ethics, procurement, contracting and anti-corruption.

Last year, Dean Tillipman testified before the House Committee on Oversight and Reform on conflicts of interest in a large corporation’s work for the FDA and opioid companies. She frequently organizes and presents at domestic and international government procurement and anti-corruption conferences and colloquia, and her legal commentary has been featured in numerous domestic and international media outlets.

Regardless of if you are currently in Washington D.C. – or over 1,500 miles therefrom ---  If you are a law student interested in practice areas such as government ethics, contracting, and anti-corruption --- this episode is designed for you!

Please note, the positions and opinions expressed by the speakers are strictly their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of their employers, nor those of the D.C. Bar, its Board of Governors or co-sponsoring Communities and organizations.

Thank you to our Sponsor!