Akeem D. Earle - Podcast Details

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Conversate with Akeem D. EarleEp 25: Breaking the Big Law Myth: Mental Health and Realities with Emily Logan StedmanIn this episode of Conversate with Akeem D. Earle, I sit down with Emily Logan Stedman, a commercial litigation partner at Husch Blackwell LLP. Emily takes us on her journey from teaching 5th grade through Teach For America to making partner at an AmLaw100 firm in Milwaukee.We dive into the realities of Big Law—beyond the Twitter hot takes. Emily unpacks the highs and lows of trial experience, the truth about billable hours, and how she made the pivot from education to law. She also opens up about her mission to destigmatize mental health in the le...2025-07-151h 05

Conversate with Akeem D. EarleEp 24: Objection, I'm Creating: A Lawyer's Leap Into Film w/ London LewisWhat does it really take to be a lawyer and a creative at the highest level? On this episode of Conversate with Akeem D. Earle, I’m joined by London Lewis, an entertainment lawyer, producer, and writer whose fingerprints are on some of the biggest projects in the game — including American Fiction, The Blackening, Self Reliance, and viral shows from The Shade Room.As the current Head of Business & Legal Affairs for MRC’s Film Group, she’s negotiated deals behind the scenes of Oscar-nominated films and championed diversity as Co-Chair of Black@MRC. We dive into her jour...2025-07-011h 16

Conversate with Akeem D. EarleEp 23: Law School, Love, and the What-Ifs: Would We Do It All Again?In this heartfelt episode, Akeem and Tonee take a trip down memory lane to share their law school love story — from meeting during 1L to navigating the challenges of legal education together. They get candid about the highs, the lows, and whether they’d do it all over again. Tune in for laughs, deep reflections, and some real talk about the law school grind.⏱ Episode Breakdown:00:00 – Intro02:00 – How We Met: A Law School Love Story12:02 – Reflections on Law School Experience16:40 – Choosing Law School: The Journey to UDC22:47 – Tonee’s Encounte...2025-04-1746 min

Conversate with Akeem D. EarleEp 23: Breaking the Big Law Myth: Mental Health and Realities with Emily Logan StedmanIn this episode, I sit down with Emily Logan Stedman, a commercial litigation partner at Husch Blackwell LLP. Emily shares her journey from teaching 5th grade through Teach For America to becoming a partner at an AmLaw100 firm in Milwaukee. We dive deep into the realities of Big Law, the challenges and rewards of trial experience, and how she made her transition from education to law.Emily breaks down the truth behind billable hours and gives an insider’s perspective on the Big Law narrative that dominates Law Twitter. We also discuss her mission to...2024-11-191h 05

Conversate with Akeem D. EarleEp 22: Power Plays and Court Battles: Inside the NBA with Gary Kohlman, Esq.In this episode, we sit down with Gary Kohlman , former General Counsel for the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA), to dive into his illustrious legal career. With over 40 years of experience as a trial attorney, defense lawyer, and sports law expert, Gary has been at the forefront of high-stakes negotiations and landmark legal cases involving NBA superstars like LeBron James, Chris Paul, Carmelo Anthony, and Michael Jordan.Gary shares stories from his time representing NBA players in the collective bargaining agreement (CBA), which secured $90 billion in compensation for athletes. He reflects on how NBA legends, including Michael...2024-10-221h 07

"More than a Lawyer with London Lewis""From Paralegal to Assistant Attorney General to U.S. Attorney: Akeem D. Earle's Rapid Rise"Welcome to "More Than a Lawyer," the show where we celebrate and learn from those who successfully juggle multiple passions and careers. In this episode, we will chat with Akeem D. Earle on the podcast. Akeem has recently made a significant career leap, moving from a paralegal specialist role to become an Assistant Attorney General in the Criminal Division. He was accepted into the Department of Justice’s Honors Program and will be starting as an Assistant United States Attorney in the Tucson U.S. Attorney's Office in the fall. He’s also the host of "Conversate with...2024-07-2343 min

Conversate with Akeem D. EarleEp 21: Courtroom Chronicles: The Realities of Being a Trial AttorneyWelcome to another captivating episode of Conversate with Akeem D. Earle! In this installment, I am thrilled to introduce the delightful Tonee Earle as the official co-host of the podcast. Together, we delve into our professional lives, offering insights into the intricacies of courtroom dynamics and sharing anecdotes from our mock trial experiences during law school. Join us as we uncover invaluable gems to empower you in navigating the world of trial law and exceeding expectations in the courtroom. Tune in now for an engaging discussion that promises to enlighten and inspire! 00:00 Conversate News 01:05 What We Do for a...2024-05-1459 min

Conversate with Akeem D. EarleEp 20: From Tennis Courts to Courtrooms: A Defense Attorney's Journey w/ Camille Wagner Esq.Join us for a compelling episode as we sit down with defense attorney Camille Wagner for an in-depth exploration of her journey in the legal profession. Camille, a native of France fluent in three languages – French, Spanish, and English, brings a unique perspective to her practice.With a background that spans continents, Camille's career trajectory is fascinating. Graduating from the University of D.C. David A. Clarke School of Law, she initially served as an Assistant Attorney General in the District before transitioning to private practice. Drawing from her experience as a former prosecutor, Camille sheds light on the nu...2024-05-0751 min

Conversate with Akeem D. EarleEp 19: Bar Exam Triumph: Mastering the Retake with Expert Guidance w/ Tonée Earle, Esq.Tonée Earle serves as a bar exam tutor and coach, specializing in helping retakers conquer their exams. Her own success story speaks volumes; passing the D.C. bar on her first attempt with an exceptional score and subsequently acing the Virginia bar exam illustrate her mastery of legal concepts and exam strategies. When she is not coaching students, Tonée, an accomplished lawyer with a passion for family law and estate planning, brings a fresh perspective to the legal landscape. With a Juris Doctorate from the University of D.C. David A Clarke School of Law an...2024-02-131h 04

Conversate with Akeem D. EarleEp 18: Persistence in Practice: Lessons from a Seasoned Federal Trial Attorney w/ Keith Morgan, Esq.Keith Morgan, a seasoned attorney with a diverse background that spans both the courtroom and the classroom, was born in Newark, NJ, and raised in Lynchburg, VA. Keith's legal odyssey began at Earlham College in Richmond, IN where he earned is bachelor’s degree and then went on to the University of Virginia School of Law. Keith embarked on a career that would lead him from a Staff Attorney at the Federal Elections Commission to a Deputy Chief in the Federal Communications Commission. As an Assistant United States Attorney in D.C., Keith Morgan honed his trial ski...2023-12-121h 31

Conversate with Akeem D. EarleEp 17: A Live Podcast Discussion with D.C. Attorney General Brian Schwalb.Join us for a captivating live interview with the Attorney General for the District of Columbia, hosted at my very own Alma Mater, the University of D.C. David A. Clarke School of Law. In this special episode, we delve into the remarkable work and responsibilities of the District's top legal officer, gaining insights into the impact his office has on our nation's capital. Discover the legal origin story of our esteemed guest, the Attorney General, as he shares his journey from law school to becoming the chief legal advocate for the District. Gain valuable perspective on...2023-10-3152 min

Conversate with Akeem D. EarleEp 16: Never Too Late: From New Beginnings to Estate Planning with a Seasoned Attorney w/ Robert Newman, Esq.Hailing from the Bronx, New York, Robert Newman is a testament to the idea that it's never too late to chase your dreams. From Administrative Parks and Recreation Manager at the NYC Department of Parks & Recreation to COO of AmeriDream, Newman had a successful professional career. However, the dream of becoming a lawyer had always lingered in the background. At the age of 50, with a lifetime of experiences under his belt, Robert decided to take the plunge and enroll in law school. What sparked this transformational decision? A heartfelt conversation with his daughter reignited his passion for...2023-09-191h 38

Conversate with Akeem D. EarleEp 15: Finding Your Voice: Unveiling the Power of Entertainment Law with a New York Attorney w/ Isaro Carter Esq.Isaro Carter, Esq is an entertainment lawyer who has carved her own path in the industry. As the founding attorney of The Carter Firm, she empowers her clients by ensuring they understand the purpose of the legal processes surrounding their work, ultimately protecting their interests. Based in the heart of New York City, her practice focuses on the intersection of intellectual property law and entertainment law, with a special emphasis on creative entrepreneurs. She provides a range of services, including trademarks, copyrights, music, and television, guiding her clients through the intricacies of these fields. Her j...2023-07-181h 27

Conversate with Akeem D. EarleEp 14: From Global Upbringing to Immigration Advocacy: A Lawyer's Journey w/ Delali Dagadu EsqIn this episode, join us as we delve into the remarkable story of an ambitious lawyer who embarked on the path of entrepreneurship right after law school. Our guest, Delali Dagadu, Esq, shares her inspiring journey of starting her own law firm, DAGADU LAW PLLC, specializing in immigration law. Born in Monrovia, Liberia, and raised in multiple countries, including the United States, Delali brings a unique perspective to her legal practice. During our conversation, we explore Delali's motivations behind choosing immigration law as her focus. She passionately discusses the intricate dynamics of the field, shedding light on...2023-06-131h 16

Conversate with Akeem D. EarleEp 13: The Benefits of Building Mentor/Mentee Relationships in the Legal ProfessionGary Williams graduated with honors from Southern University and A&M College in 2014, where he earned a degree in Criminal Justice with a minor in Computer Science. In 2018, Gary earned his Juris Doctor from Southern University Law Center in Baton Rogue, Louisiana. While attending Southern University Law Center, Mr. Williams was a member of the Moot Court, where he was the Historian. In addition, he served in the Student Bar Association, Journal of Race, Gender, and Poverty, Delta Theta Phi Law Fraternity, American Inns of Court, and a Thurgood Marshall Law Student nominee. After law school, Gary became a...2023-05-0251 min

Conversate with Akeem D. EarleEp 12: My Legal Journey: How I Became a Lawyer and the Lessons Learned Along the WayWhat better way to end Season 1 than the have the special guest be the best podcast host in the game, Akeem D. Earle! Akeem Earle is originally from New York hailing from Brooklyn and Long Island. He received his undergraduate degree from West Chester University of Pennsylvania and earned his juris doctor from the University of the District of Columbia David A. Clarke School of Law. Akeem worked his way through law school as a paralegal for the Office of the Attorney General for the District of Columbia. In law school, Akeem's passion for criminal justice reform was cultivated a...2023-03-1434 min

Conversate with Akeem D. EarleEp 11: Into The Mind of a Defense Attorney, The Perspective and Confidence You Need to Succeed in this Field w/ Quiana HarrisQuiana Harris is a native of a small town in eastern North Carolina named Rich Square, and Summa Cum Laude graduate of Winston-Salem State University. Thereafter, Quiana attended Howard University School of Law where she represented clients through the Criminal Justice Clinic and was the Executive Notes and Comments Editor for the Howard Law Journal. Upon graduation from Howard Law, the first-generation Esquire joined the faculty of Georgetown Law School as an E. Barrett Prettyman Fellow, where supervised third year law students in Georgetown’s Juvenile Justice Clinic while also representing children and adults in the DC Superior Court. Up...2023-01-171h 15

AI Decodes the SystemConversate with Akeem D. Earle Podcast Cross Post - AI, Tech, Data and How it Intersects with the Law w/ Amber IveyIn this week's episode, I am posting a conversation I had on the new podcast Conversate with Akeem D. Earle about the importance of lawyers keeping up with technology to ensure that people have access to justice. This conversation gets live and in living color (if you don't get it, you don't get it) as I speak my mind and thoughts on many different topics. I decided to post this episode on MLK Jr. Day because the advancements in technology have brought about new challenges and opportunities for realizing Dr. King's vision of a just and equal society. For...2023-01-161h 02

Conversate with Akeem D. EarleEp 10: AI, Tech, Data, and How it Intersects with the Law w/ Amber IveyAmber Ivey is a prominent thinker, voice, and leader of cultural change, an expert in data utilization and management, while also being an equitable leader. Ivey was born in Bethesda, Maryland. She earned an undergraduate degree from Old Dominion University, a graduate degree from the University of Maryland College Park, and a law degree from the University of the District of Columbia David A. Clarke School of Law. In 2020, Amber Ivey ran for election to the U.S. House to represent Maryland's 7th Congressional District. While in law school Amber realized she wanted to support people in a different...2022-12-271h 01

Conversate with Akeem D. EarleEp 9: Tyla Swinton, Esq - "Be A Luminary"Tyla A. Swinton is originally from Queens, New York. After graduating from (thee illustrious) Howard University, she attended Penn State Law for her JD. Currently, Tyla works at Jackson Lewis P.C. in the Long Island office and practices Affirmative Action, OFCCP and Government Contract Compliance. Recently, she was recognized by The National Black Lawyers as a top 40 Under 40 Black attorney in the state of New York and top 100 in the country. On this episode of Conversate, we discuss, how it is being a lawyer fresh out of law school, Tyla's love for poetry, how she became top 40 Under 40...2022-12-1353 min

Conversate with Akeem D. EarleEp 8: Etienne Toussaint, Esq. - "Never Silence Your Voice"Etienne C. Toussaint, a South Bronx native, is an interdisciplinary legal scholar with expertise in legal history, contract law, business/corporate law, community economic development, and philosophical legal ethics/professional responsibility. He is currently a law professor at the University of South Carolina School of Law. Professor Toussaint is a graduate of The Massachusetts Institute of Technology. At MIT, he earned an S.B. in Mechanical Engineering, and was designated a Ronald McNair Scholar and Alpha Phi Alpha Distinguished Collegiate. He completed an M.S.E. in Environmental Engineering from The Johns Hopkins University, where he served as Graduate S...2022-11-301h 35

Conversate with Akeem D. EarleEp 7: Claudia Ahiabor, Esq. - "Search Your Heart for Who You Are"Claudia Ahiabor was born and raised in New Jersey, spent part of her childhood in Ghana, and currently lives in the Washington DC metro area. She graduated from American University Washington College of Law, where she focused her degree on health law. She currently works at the US Food and Drug Administration as an Associate Chief Counsel in the Office of Chief Counsel. On this episode, we discuss how Claudia found the law, her experience living in Ghana as a child, Kim Kardashian taking the baby bar, and more! Let's Conversate!2022-11-2247 min

Conversate with Akeem D. EarleEp 6: Jerome Crawford, Esq. - "Authenticity is Everything"*DISCLAIMER* Due to technical difficulties portions of the audio for this episode are not of the standard and quality for which Conversate with Akeem D. Earle usually provides. However, this conversation was far too beneficial to not provide to the audience. It is the hope of the Conversate with Akeem D. Earle podcast team that you will still enjoy this episode as the clarity of the content is pure and timely. Jerome Crawford, a Detroit native, is the Chief Legal Officer for Pleasantrees, Michigan’s premier cultivator and seller of high-quality Mid...2022-11-151h 11

Conversate with Akeem D. EarleEp 5: Kyndall Rodriguez, Esq. & Jovena Walton, Esq. - "Biggie or Pac"Kyndall Rodriguez, Esq. was born and raised in Orange County, California. She graduated from UDC-David A. Clarke School of Law and is currently barred to practice in The District of Columbia and the state of Maryland. Presently, Kyndall is a third year associate attorney for an in-house litigation firm that represents a Fortune 50 company. Kyndall’s practice areas include: civil defense litigation, personal injury, and civil negotiation. Kyndall enjoys coaching the mock trial team at her alma mater UDC Law, mentioning, bartending, and making others laugh. Jovena is an experienced civil litigator. After graduating from Spelman College an...2022-11-011h 38

Conversate with Akeem D. EarleEp 4: Krystal Durham, Esq - "I Am Who I Am"Krystal Durham is a partner at Williams & Connolly and focuses her practice on commercial and complex civil litigation, white collar defense and investigations, criminal defense, and employment matters. Krystal has represented corporations, professional firms, and individuals in a variety of business disputes. Krystal has experience in a range of substantive areas, including professional malpractice, antitrust matters, and securities litigation and has been a member of several trial teams. Born and raised in northern Virginia, Krystal earned a B.A. in History, with high distinction, from the University of Virginia in 2009. In 2012, Krystal received her J.D. from Col...2022-10-2539 min

Conversate with Akeem D. EarleEp 3: Safie da Costa Soarès, Esq. - "Advocate For Yourself"Safie is a multilingual attorney from Benin, West Africa. After obtaining her J.D. from Georgetown University Law Center, Safie began her career at the Office of the Attorney General in DC and completed a clerkship at the DC Superior Court before moving to Miami in the quest for everlasting summers. She currently practices at a boutique law firm focusing on commercial litigation and real estate matters. Safie is also an entrepreneur and the founder of Gentleman AF, a beard care brand using all natural ingredients @gentlemanafofficial. Out of all the hats she wears, her favorite is being a...2022-10-1844 min

Conversate with Akeem D. EarleEp 2: James King, Esq.- "Damn Right I Am"James King is a licensed attorney with years of litigation and trial experience. His inspirational story is one that will continue to change the world and uplift those who are fortunate enough to hear it! Before he practiced law, Mr. King briefly played professional football. After being falsely accused and convicted of a crime, his passion transferred from athletics to the law. Today he serves as an attorney for indigent individuals, a consultant for practicing attorneys, works on the board of directors for a non profit and travels the country speaking at public events. On this episode, we discussed h...2022-10-111h 04

Conversate with Akeem D. EarleEp 1: Sellano Simmons, Esq. - "Everyone is Fast"Sellano Simmons is originally from North Dakota but graduated from Howard University School of Law. He started in Big Law doing mergers and acquisitions and now runs his own firm doing criminal defense work in the District of Columbia. Listen in to hear his journey in the legal field, his life outside of the law, networking gems and more! Let's Conversate!2022-10-0446 min