Shows
Leadership In Law PodcastS03E134 Non-Transactional Networking for Career Support with Jagdeep SekhonEver wondered how a junior lawyer becomes the steady legal voice in a fast‑moving startup? We sit down with corporate attorney and Legal Chutney host Jagdeep to unpack the mindset shift that turns theory into leadership: owning outcomes, translating rules into business choices, and building relationships that open real doors. From taking board minutes through an acquisition to guiding product timelines and negotiating contracts that reflect industry norms, she shows how to lead without waiting for a title.We open up about the art of the principled no, how to explain the law, frame the commercial ri...
2026-02-1738 min
Legal Chutney (Formally Brown Girl Power)Showing Up Whole: Authenticity, Law, and Mental HealthSend us a textIn this episode of Legal Chutney, I sat down with Heather Reese, a personal injury attorney, model, and community advocate, for a candid conversation about redefining what it means to be a lawyer and giving yourself permission to be more than one thing. We talked about balancing multiple passions in a demanding profession, challenging outdated ideas of professionalism, and the importance of setting boundaries to avoid burnout.Heather shared her personal journey of navigating the legal field while pursuing creative and advocacy-driven work, and how showing up...
2026-01-2754 minLegal Chutney (Formally Brown Girl Power)Faith as an Anchor in the Legal JourneySend us a textIn this episode of Legal Chutney, I sat down with Ajaypal Singh for a thoughtful and candid conversation about the realities of being a Sikh student in law school and navigating the legal profession while staying true to one’s identity. We talked openly about the unique pressures Sikh law students face, including the weight of representation, visibility, and the constant balancing act between cultural values and professional expectations.Ajaypal shared his personal journey, from initially considering a career in law enforcement to ultimately becoming a prosecutor, and how that path wa...
2026-01-2054 minLegal Chutney (Formally Brown Girl Power)Mastering the Bar ExamSend us a textIn this episode of Legal Chutney, I sat down with Jima Fahnbulleh for an honest and deeply personal conversation about the realities of preparing for the bar exam especially as a repeat test taker. We talked candidly about the emotional toll of failing, the pressure that comes with trying again, and how easily confidence can erode during the process.Jima shared powerful insights on why bar prep cannot be one-size-fits-all and the importance of creating a personalized study schedule that accounts not just for learning...
2026-01-131h 00Legal Chutney (Formally Brown Girl Power)Inside Legal Interviews: What Law Firms Really Look ForSend us a textIn this episode of Legal Chutney, I sat down with Benson Lee, Manager of Early Career Recruitment at White & Case, for an inside look at how law firms really approach OCI interviews and candidate evaluation. We had an honest, practical conversation about what separates a strong interview from a forgettable one and how students can show up prepared, confident, and authentic throughout the process.Benson broke down the key differences between screener and callback interviews, shared what interviewers are actually assessing in short OCI conversations, and offered concrete guidance on navigating...
2026-01-0658 minLegal Chutney (Formally Brown Girl Power)Networking, Rejection, and Standing Out in LawSend us a textIn this episode of Legal Chutney, I sat down with Brian Potts, a partner at Husch Blackwell, for a candid conversation about navigating the legal job market and the often-misunderstood power of networking. We talked about the realities of rejection, standing out in a competitive profession, and why building genuine relationships matters just as much as having strong credentials.Brian shared his personal journey from publicly posting a rejection letter on LinkedIn to helping build a nationwide legal mentor network—and reflected on how vulnerability, authenticity, and community can op...
2025-12-3042 minLegal Chutney (Formally Brown Girl Power)Burnout, Pressure & Purpose in LawSend us a textIn this episode of Legal Chutney, I sat down with Danielle Thompson, a Columbia Law graduate and legal recruiter, for an honest conversation about one of the most overlooked challenges in the legal field: mental health. We unpacked the intense pressures of law school and legal practice, explored how grades and performance often become tied to self-worth, and discussed how these expectations can take a lasting toll over time.Danielle shared candid insights from both her academic and professional experiences, emphasizing the importance of community, mentorship, and asking for...
2025-12-2345 minLegal Chutney (Formally Brown Girl Power)Retaking the Bar: Strategy Over StressSend us a textIn this episode of Legal Chutney, I sat down with former bar grader turned bar tutor Jay Bijlani to talk candidly about one of the most difficult and emotional parts of the legal journey: preparing for the bar exam as a repeat taker. We unpacked the realities of bar prep, challenged common misconceptions about what it really takes to pass, and explored how mindset, strategy, and support can make all the difference.Jay shared powerful insights on why memorization alone isn’t enough, how proper analysis changes ou...
2025-12-1656 minLegal Chutney (Formally Brown Girl Power)Navigating the New OCI Timeline: What You Need to KnowSend us a textIn this episode of Legal Chutney, I had the pleasure of speaking with Danielle Thompson, a legal recruiter who works closely with law firms and truly understands the recruiting landscape. She shared invaluable insights on navigating one of the most stressful parts of the law school journey: the new OCI timeline.Danielle opened up about the unique challenges students face when applying early and now without first-semester grades. The ways to approach the process with strategy, confidence, and clarity. We also dug into the mindset shifts and...
2025-11-251h 06Legal Chutney (Formally Brown Girl Power)Mastering Law School Exams: Strategies, Setbacks, and SuccessSend us a textIn this episode of Legal Chutney, I had the pleasure of speaking with Gurpreet Singh, who shared his insights on navigating one of the toughest parts of the law school journey: finals season. He opened up about the unique challenges law students face, how to approach exams strategically, and the mindset shifts that make all the difference.We had an insightful conversation about the importance of preparation, community, and understanding your own value, especially when dealing with the pressure, uncertainty, and expectations that come with law school.
2025-11-181h 06Legal Chutney (Formally Brown Girl Power)Building Community In The LawSend us a textIn this episode of Legal Chutney, I had the pleasure of speaking with Milana Dostanitch, Senior Of Counsel and founder of I Will. She shared her journey of building community for women in law and the inspiration behind creating a space that empowers and connects others in the profession.We had an insightful conversation about the importance of community, the challenges women face in the legal field, and how recognizing your own value can lead to greater confidence and leadership.💡 We covered:How...
2025-11-1153 minLegal Chutney (Formally Brown Girl Power)Beyond Borders: The LLM JourneySend us a textIn this episode of Legal Chutney, I had the pleasure of speaking with Savleen Kaur, an international lawyer and LLM graduate, who shared her experience pursuing an LLM and navigating the opportunities and challenges that come with it. We had an insightful conversation about the value of global legal education, the role of networking, and how building meaningful relationships can shape your professional journey.We covered:The pros and cons of pursuing an LLM and how to make the most of the experience.The importance of networking and c...
2025-11-0451 minLegal Chutney (Formally Brown Girl Power)Finding Your Fit in Legal PracticeSend us a textIn this episode of Legal Chutney, I had the pleasure of speaking with Suhansi Perera, an attorney at Latham and Watkins who shared her journey navigating different practice groups and finding her place in the legal world.We had a thoughtful conversation about growth, mentorship, and the power of being proactive in shaping your own career path.We covered:The process of transitioning from transactional work to antitrust law — and what inspired that shift.The importance of networking, curiosity, and adaptability in building a fulfilling legal ca...
2025-10-2855 minLegal Chutney (Formally Brown Girl Power)Managing a Side Hustle as an AttorneySend us a textIn this episode of Legal Chutney, I had the pleasure of speaking with Veena Bansal, an attorney and small business owner, who shared how she balances her legal career with her passion for Indian heritage through her business, Sangemar.We had an inspiring conversation about blending professional life with personal identity, and how creativity and community support can help make it possible.We covered:The challenges and rewards of managing both a legal career and a small business.How legal skills can...
2025-10-211h 05Legal Chutney (Formally Brown Girl Power)Balancing Part-Time Law SchoolSend us a textIn this episode of Legal Chutney, I had the pleasure of speaking with Dinesh Melwani a Patent Parter at Bookoff McAndrews, who shared his journey of attending law school part-time while working full-time. We had an insightful conversation about balancing work, personal life, and education, especially for those with family or financial responsibilities.We covered:The realities of pursuing law school part-time and managing competing priorities.How firm sponsorship and support can make legal education more accessible.The importance of networking, setting boundaries, and clear communication—pa...
2025-10-141h 00Legal Chutney (Formally Brown Girl Power)Diversity, Empowerment and Legal SuccessSend us a textIn this episode of Legal Chutney, I had the pleasure of speaking with Neel Chatterjee, Partner and Co-Head of the IP Litigation Practice at King & Spalding. We had a powerful conversation on diversity, equity, and inclusion in the legal industry and how authenticity, skill, and results drive long-term success.We covered:The evolving role of DEI in law firms and the business communityThe unique challenges faced by diverse attorneysHow initiatives like Law Firm Partners United are driving changePractical advice for young lawyers...
2025-10-0759 minLegal Chutney (Formally Brown Girl Power)From Lawyer to Tech FounderSend us a textIn this episode of Legal Chutney, I had the pleasure of speaking with Kameron Monet, a lawyer turned tech entrepreneur and founder of Social Docket, a platform connecting law with the creator economy. We had a thoughtful conversation on her journey from law school to tech, and the lessons she’s learned along the way.We covered:Transitioning from law to tech and the challenges along the way.The importance of networking and building a supportive community.How resilience, adaptability, and action drive success in...
2025-09-3059 minLegal Chutney (Formally Brown Girl Power)Mentorship and Sponsorship in the LawSend us a textIn this episode of Legal Chutney, I had the pleasure of speaking with Neeta Sahadev, Partner at White & Case about the role of mentorship and sponsorship in the legal profession. We had a thoughtful conversation on how to build, maintain, and grow professional relationships that can shape your career.We covered:The difference between mentorship and sponsorship and why both matter.How to approach potential mentors and sponsors with confidence.Tips for maintaining long-term professional relationships.
2025-09-2354 minLegal Chutney (Formally Brown Girl Power)Work Life Balance In Law School and PracticeSend us a textIn this episode, I sit down with Tarlochan Rakhra, Legal Counsel at a Private Equity fund to explore the idea of work-life balance in law school and legal practice. We talk about the pressure students and lawyers face, the myth of “perfect balance,” and practical ways to manage stress while building a sustainable career. Tarlochan shares his own journey, lessons learned, and advice for staying grounded in a demanding profession.
2025-09-1658 minLegal Chutney (Formally Brown Girl Power)From Survival to Strategy: Thriving as an AttorneySend us a textIn this episode of Legal Chutney, I had Albert from Lateral Hub join us to discuss how junior associates can navigate their legal careers. We had a practical conversation for anyone planning their next legal career move. We covered:Why Lateral Hub was created and how it differs from traditional recruiting.Three key priorities for incoming associates.When to start thinking about career strategy and first steps to take.
2025-09-0956 minLegal Chutney (Formally Brown Girl Power)Thriving as a Young AttorneySend us a textIn this episode of Legal Chutney, I sit down with Allie Sisson Erstad, an experienced attorney and mentor, to talk about what it takes to succeed as a first-year associate. Allie previously served as the Associate Director for the Center for Professional Development at Seattle University School of Law and is now the Legal Recruiting Manager at Perkins Coie. Allie shares her insights on navigating the steep learning curve, building strong relationships at your firm, and laying the groundwork for a sustainable legal career.We dive into:Managing expectations and...
2025-09-021h 08Legal Chutney (Formally Brown Girl Power)Pivoting to Law: A Nontraditional JourneySend us a textIn this episode of Legal Chutney, I sit down with Isabel Tahir, an Environmental and Land Use Attorney to discuss what it’s like to pursue law school as a second career after taking time away from school. Isabel shares her unique path, the challenges of starting fresh, and the lessons she’s learned about navigating law school with the perspective of prior professional and life experience.We dive into:The decision-making process behind changing careers and choosing lawAdjusting back to an academic sett...
2025-08-2635 minLegal Chutney (Formally Brown Girl Power)Law School Exposed: The Stuff No One Warns You AboutSend us a textIn this episode of Legal Chutney, I sit down with Ram Bhadra to share some bold hot takes about law school that might just change the way you think about your JD journey. We cut through the noise and tackle the big questions students rarely discuss openly.We dive into:Are outlines actually overrated?Why being a good person might matter more than being the smartest person in the roomThe real role networking plays in shaping your careerAnd much more…
2025-08-191h 02Legal Chutney (Formally Brown Girl Power)Surviving Law School: The Big Picture Part 2Send us a textJoin us on today’s episode as we sit down with Heather Chang from Robbins Kaplan. Heather shares her invaluable insights on how to survive and thrive in your first year of law school especially navigating the unique challenges faced by people of color.We cover everything from:Managing cold callsBuilding strong relationships with peersNetworking effectivelyAnd staying resilient through it allWhether you’re just starting your 1L year or already deep in your casebooks, this episode is packed with practical tips and honest advice you...
2025-08-1251 minLegal Chutney (Formally Brown Girl Power)Surviving Law School: The Big PictureSend us a textJoin us on today’s episode as we sit down with Fairuz Abdullah, Deputy Director at UC College of the Law, San Francisco (formerly UC Hastings). Fairuz shares her invaluable insights on how to survive and thrive in law school—especially during your challenging 1L year.We cover everything from:How to read your first caseManaging cold callsBuilding effective study habitsAnd tackling imposter syndromeWhether you're heading into your first semester or already knee-deep in casebooks, this episode is packed with practical tips and...
2025-08-0555 minLegal Chutney (Formally Brown Girl Power)Wounds of Punjab 1984: Before and AfterSend us a textSikh activist, politician, and attorney Jasjit Singh joins me to reflect on the events before and after June 1984. From the lead-up to Battle of Amritsar to its lasting impact, he shares insight on justice, identity, and the ongoing struggle for truth.
2025-06-051h 15Legal Chutney (Formally Brown Girl Power)Tips on setting yourself apart when applying for jobsSend us a textLearn about tips and tricks on setting yourself apart during legal job interviews. Guest speaker Krithika, former member on a national moot court trial team and currently a litigation associate in biglaw.
2024-09-1045 minLegal Chutney (Formally Brown Girl Power)Tips on Legal InterviewsSend us a textLearn about the best way to prepare for your legal job interviews. Guest speaker is Mattie former big law associate currently a senior litigation associate.
2024-09-1050 minLegal Chutney (Formally Brown Girl Power)Tips for Law School MentorshipSend us a textLearn about how to find a mentor in law school that can help you navigate the tough journey. Guest spealer on this episode is Bhavin Shah a graduate of University of Pennsylvania Law School, a former judicial intern and currently an Associate at Latham & Watkins LLP.
2024-09-1045 minLegal Chutney (Formally Brown Girl Power)Grad School Edition: Chiropractor and Physician AssistantSend us a textHear from Navjot Randhawa (Chiropractor) Sandeep Kaur (Physician Assistant) on the ways they navigate through their grad programs.
2024-05-1736 minLegal Chutney (Formally Brown Girl Power)Mental Health in the 21st CenturySend us a textHear from Anamika Dubb on how she balances taking care of her mental health while juggling being a student and make-up artist.
2024-05-1737 minLegal Chutney (Formally Brown Girl Power)Building Community: South Asian Women Edition Part. 1Send us a textThis week the episode is focused on building a community with South Asian Women and supporting one another. Natasha discusses her journey and how she builds community on Instagram. @purposeandchai
2024-03-0238 minLegal Chutney (Formally Brown Girl Power)Building Community: South Asian Women Edition Part 3Send us a textThe last part of the series we have Sonia Kaur (@thatpunjabimom). A mom of three and content creator discusses how she builds community and helps empower other women. We focus on topics around Sikhi and our stories of creating change in our own communities.
2024-03-0243 minLegal Chutney (Formally Brown Girl Power)Building Community: South Asian Women Edition Part. 2Send us a textThis week we have Sukhi Dhillon (@OneSikhMom) sharing how she empowers herself and the ways she is trying to empower other South Asian females.
2024-03-0238 minLegal Chutney (Formally Brown Girl Power)Dean Covington on Law and Social ChangeSend us a textHear from Professor Covington from University of Washington School of Law on the need for social changes with the current events of the Black Lives Matter Movement.
2024-03-0234 minLegal Chutney (Formally Brown Girl Power)Law School ActivismSend us a textHear from three students (Mateo Hernandez, Karla Davis Mary Ruffin) from University of Washington School of Law on advocating for resources and equitable treatment in law school.
2024-03-021h 02Legal Chutney (Formally Brown Girl Power)Diversity in Law School and the Legal ProfessionSend us a textHear from Monica Romero (2L) at University of Washington School of Law regarding diversity in law school and the legal profession.
2024-03-0252 minLegal Chutney (Formally Brown Girl Power)1984 Sikh Genocide: What Really Happened?Send us a textThis podcast is dedicated to all the lives lost and impacted by the attack on Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple) in June 1984. Join Jasjit Sing and I as we unravel the events of the Battle of Amritsar and the aftermath.
2024-03-021h 09Legal Chutney (Formally Brown Girl Power)Finances in Law SchoolSend us a textThis week in collaboration with the Western Chapter of the National Black Law Student's Association we discuss finances in relation to law school. The tips and tricks we use to stay on budget.
2024-03-0236 minLegal Chutney (Formally Brown Girl Power)Tips on Study Habits in Law SchoolSend us a textThis episode focuses on tips and techniques of improving study habits. This week Harjot Kaur (2L) at UC Hastings shares her advice on studying in law school .
2024-03-0220 minLegal Chutney (Formally Brown Girl Power)Hustle Culture in Law School/ Legal ProfessionSend us a textHear from Mattie, a commercial litigator and big law associate on the ways to deal with hustle culture. We discuss how we feel being in a hustle culture environment and the ways we deal with it.
2024-03-0242 minLegal Chutney (Formally Brown Girl Power)The Good, The Bad And the Ugly of 1st year of Law SchoolSend us a textHear from two first year law school students describe their first year in law school. The challenges and the positives of the first year.
2024-03-0251 minLegal Chutney (Formally Brown Girl Power)Importance of NetworkingSend us a textLearn about the importance that networking plays in your success in the law school. This episode is in collaboration with the National Black Law Student Association. Marcena Day the Western Regional Pre-law Director offers her tips and tricks on networking in law school.
2024-03-0239 minLegal Chutney (Formally Brown Girl Power)Academic Planning for Law School ClassesSend us a textHear from Big Law Litigation Associate Abigail on how to plan you law school classes. Learn how to be intentional and set yourself up for success. You can follow Abigail on instagram @abigailtheattorney
2024-03-0236 minLegal Chutney (Formally Brown Girl Power)Imposter SyndromeSend us a textHear from Big Law Associate Abigail address imposter syndrome in law school and the legal profession.
2024-03-0249 minLegal Chutney (Formally Brown Girl Power)Social Media and Law SchoolSend us a textThis week in collaboration with the Western Chapter of the National Black Law Students Association we discuss social media in relation to law school. The importance of having your LinkedIn updated and the pros/ cons of social media.
2024-03-0234 minLegal Chutney (Formally Brown Girl Power)What is happening in the Indian Farmers' Protest?Send us a textInformation on the peaceful Indian Farmers' Protest. Learn about why the farmers are protesting at the Indian Capital
2024-03-0245 min