Shows
The Portia ProjectElaine HammondBankruptcy Judge Elaine Hammond sits down with host M.C. Sungaila to demystify both bankruptcy law and the path to becoming a bankruptcy judge. Bankruptcy is a very specialized area of the law. Judge Hammond shares how she decided to be a bankruptcy judge, her journey to becoming one, and what her responsibilities are. She also gives some advice for those thinking about applying for the position and the process that goes along with it.2023-09-2539 min
The Portia ProjectRobyn CrowtherRobyn Crowther, the Regional Managing Partner for California at Steptoe & Johnson, sits down with host M.C. Sungaila to share her path to leadership in a large law firm, her earlier experience at a pathbreaking boutique litigation firm, and her work as a trial lawyer and community and bar leader which has led to her being repeatedly named by the Daily Journal as one of the Top 100 Women Lawyers in California.2023-09-1150 min
The Portia ProjectNinth Circuit Law School Clinic Alumni Panel With Tina Kuang, Molly Okamura, And Sydney WongIn this episode, we explore the transformative experience of law school clinics and their pivotal role in shaping the careers of aspiring lawyers. Today, we have the privilege of hearing from three exceptional graduates of Loyola Law School of Los Angeles' Ninth Circuit Clinic: Tina Kuang, Sydney Wong, and Molly Okamura. Under the guidance of our host, M.C. Sungaila, these talented alumni share their remarkable journeys, where they, along with their law school teammates, took on the challenge of briefing, arguing, and ultimately prevailing in immigration appeals before the esteemed Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. Their stories exemplify...2023-08-2149 min
The Portia ProjectJean Lawler, Mediator, Arbitrator, and Former Law Firm Managing PartnerJean Lawler shares her journey from law firm managing partner to mediator and arbitrator, and her experience leading the Federation of Defense and Corporate Counsel. She is a great example of how to design your legal career and stack skills to find new career directions. Tune in to this insightful conversation between Jean Lawler and podcast host MC Sungaila.2023-08-141h 09
The Portia ProjectBarbara Madsen, Washington Supreme Court JusticeWashington Supreme Court Justice Barbara Madsen is a trailblazer. The first woman to be popularly elected to the Court in Washington state history, and the third woman to serve on the Court, she is committed to public service and equal justice. While on Seattle's Municipal Court bench, she helped develop a Domestic Violence Coordinating Committee to comprehensively address violence in the family and as Presiding Judge of the Municipal Court, she increased opportunities for women and attorneys of color to receive appointments as pro tem judges. She shares her remarkable journey from public defender and city attorney to her...2023-07-1748 min
The Portia ProjectStacy D. PhillipsLegendary family law attorney Stacy D. Phillips talks with host M.C. Sungaila about being intentional in your career choices but also being open to new opportunities, giving back, moving from her own highly successful law firm to the executive committee of BigLaw firm Blank Rome, and what she learned from her lawyer father. 2023-06-2943 min
The Portia ProjectPatricia MillettRenowned Supreme Court and appellate advocate Patricia Millett, now Judge on the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit, joins MC Sungaila to share her journey to the bench and how her experience in appellate advocacy impacts her work on the court. She provides valuable insights on brief writing and oral argument, highlighting the perspective of a member of the bench and the importance of taking the court's perspective in crafting oral argument. Judge Millet offers refreshing insights for aspiring lawyers and judges. 2023-06-2644 min
The Portia ProjectJeanniey WaldenWomen lawyers can learn from high-achieving women in a range of industries. Today, Jeanniey Walden, former CMO of DailyPay, and now CEO of LiftOff Enterprises and host of the national daytime TV show “LiftOff with Jeanniey Walden," provides some insights into branding. With host MC Sungaila, Jeanniey shares tips on building an authentic brand for yourself, public speaking, and the role of risk-taking in your career.2023-06-2241 min
The Portia ProjectCheryl TobinAs the first General Counsel of M Financial Group, Cheryl Tobin oversees all legal, corporate compliance and corporate governance matters for the company. She is also responsible for strengthening M’s government affairs capabilities. Here, in conversation with host MC Sungaila, Cheryl takes us across her interesting career journey—from law school to the insurance industry, and a longstanding in-house role at market leader Pacific Life. She shares the many opportunities that helped her grow professionally, including taking on a new role building an in-house legal department. 2023-06-1928 min
The Portia ProjectAmy Lyn BlakeMassachusetts Appeals Court Justice Amy Lyn Blake shares her journey from law practice to the trial and appellate bench. With host MC Sungaila, Justice Blake has a lively discussion about what it takes to become a judge, the difference between law practice and serving on the bench, and the oral argument and brief writing process. 2023-06-1552 min
The Portia ProjectAshley HerdAshley Herd has had a deep and wide legal career, including in-house counsel at leading companies like Yum! Brands (including Taco Bell) around the world to founding her own company Manager Method, which provides efficient training and scalable tools to build healthy workplaces (along the way becoming a breakout TikTok and Linkedin star). Ashley joins host MC Sungaila to share how she uses her background in employment law and experience in corporate sales to help grow relationships, how she uses her strong online presence to provide practical insights, and the importance of empathy in law and business. Ashley has...2023-06-1258 min
The Portia ProjectLaurie McKinnonMontana Supreme Court Justice Laurie McKinnon shares her journey from prosecutor in Baltimore, Maryland, to Deputy County Attorney in Glacier and Teton Counties in Montana, and to her election to the bench. In conversation with host MC Sungaila, she provides great advice on being elected to the bench, writing opinions and briefs, and the role of oral argument in appellate decision-making. 2023-06-0844 min
The Portia ProjectBernice B. DonaldTrailblazing Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals Judge Bernice B. Donald has had a multifaceted judicial career. She sits down with host MC Sungaila to discuss her time on the federal appellate bench, and, before that, as a federal district judge and bankruptcy judge. She shares her work in the area of implicit bias, mentoring and encouraging women of color to consider the bench, and provides some insights into effective brief-writing and oral argument. 2023-06-011h 02
The Portia ProjectMartha L. WaltersOregon Supreme Court Chief Justice Martha Lee Walters shares her path to the bench with host MC Sungaila, including founding her own women-owned law firm that was involved with some of the most high profile and pathbreaking civil rights cases of the time. Chief Justice Walters discusses the importance of continuing to make sure that the justice system is accessible to, and a helpful forum for, members of the public and their disputes. 2023-05-2947 min
The Portia ProjectRaquel Montoya-LewisWashington Supreme Court Justice Raquel Montoya-Lewis shares her trailblazing journey to the highest court of her state. In conversation with host MC Sungaila, she shares her experience serving as a tribal court judge for three different tribes (the Upper Skagit Indian Tribe, the Nooksack Indian Tribe, and the Lummi Nation), as well as on the Washington Superior Court bench. Her time as a tribal judge taught her to stand up for the rule of law (even if it cost her personally, in the form of expulsion from her own tribal home) and how cultural understanding and empathy play an...2023-05-251h 22
The Portia ProjectSheryl Gordon McCloudWith host MC Sungaila, Washington Supreme Court Justice Sheryl Gordon McCloud discusses campaigning for judicial election, and how her experience as a public defender and appellate lawyer prepared her for a career on the bench. Justice McCloud also shares appellate briefwriting and oral argument tips.2023-05-2253 min
The Portia ProjectSusan M. CarneyJustice Susan M. Carney of the Alaska Supreme Court sits down with host MC Sungaila to discuss her road to Alaska, and to the bench. A post-law school clerkship with Alaska Supreme Court Justice Justice Jay Rabinowitz brought Justice Carney to Alaska, where she stayed, working as a public defender and for the Alaska Office of Public Advocacy before joining the court for which she clerked. Justice Carney shares how her athletic experience impacted her career, and the role that mentors and supporters played in her journey to the bench.2023-05-1838 min
The Portia ProjectAlison R. NelsonAlison R. Nelson served as inhouse counsel at Ford Motor Company and most recently as the company's inaugural Director of DEI Strategies & Inclusion. She discusses with host MC Sungaila the importance of mentors to her career, the innovative diversity work she led at Ford, ways for inhouse counsel to foster diversity among outside counsel, and how a legal career can evolve to encompass new layers of meaning as we grow. 2023-05-151h 00
The Portia ProjectMelody J. StewartJustice Melody Stewart is the first Black woman elected to serve on the Ohio Supreme Court. She shares her varied work experience (including academia) and her path to the bench, as well as some advice for the next generation, with host M.C. Sungaila.2023-05-111h 04
The Portia ProjectHelen WhitenerJustice G. Helen Whitener of the Washington Supreme Court is a trailblazer: the first Black woman to serve on the Washington Supreme Court, the fourth immigrant-born Justice, and the first Black LGBT judge in the State of Washington. But even though she is the first, she doesn’t want to be the last. So she focuses on teaching and mentoring others to pursue a legal career and apply to the bench. With host M.C. Sungaila, she discusses the importance of mentoring to her own legal career and treating everyone with respect and humanity. 2023-05-041h 05
The Portia ProjectMary Jane TheisIllinois Chief Justice Mary Jane Theis joins host MC Sungaila to talk about the impact of the pandemic on the judicial system and the use of technology and the need to enhance access to the court system. She also explains how to write effective appellate briefs and present oral argument that is helpful to the justices in deciding cases. 2023-04-2754 min
The Portia ProjectElizabeth T. ClementJustice Elizabeth T. Clement, the new Chief Justice of the Michigan Supreme Court, sits down with host MC Sungaila to discuss her wide-ranging legal career, from family law to Chief Legal Counsel in the state's Executive Branch and her current role as an elected member of the state's highest court and leader of the state's court system as Chief Justice. 2023-04-2441 min
The Portia ProjectPLAC Women's Forum Live Panel DiscussionA live Women's History Month podcast panel with the Product Liability Advisory Council (PLAC) Women's Forum held at Hyundai Motor America Headquarters features Orange County Superior Court Presiding Judge Maria Hernandez, Orange County Supervisor Katrina Foley, Jennifer Keller of Keller Anderle, General Counsel of Origence Erin Wilson, and Trellis Legal Research Co-Founder Nicole Clark. Moderated by host M.C. Sungaila, this episode features an engaging conversation among the panelists about overcoming professional obstacles to lead on the bench, at trial, in elected office, in the general counsel's office, and as a start-up founder.2023-04-171h 02
The Portia ProjectHeidi ZuckermanHeidi Zuckerman, a globally recognized leader in contemporary art, is the CEO and Director of OCMA/The Orange County Museum of Art, the creator and host of the podcast Conversations About Art, and the author of numerous books, including the Conversations with Artists book series. Heidi sits down with host M.C. Sungaila to discuss her career path and share tips that will help women lawyers thrive in their careers as well. She also shares leadership lessons and shares thoughts on team building and creating a community. 2023-04-1752 min
The Portia ProjectAdrianne MarshackOrange County, California Superior Court Judge Adrianne Marshack joins host MC Sungaila to discuss her career trajectory from teaching to BigLaw to the bench, and explain how she handles her current assignment in family law by expanding her legal expertise and making sure that those going through turbulent family law proceedings are treated with dignity and respect. She also explains the importance of being flexible, listening to your intuition, and getting advice from trustworthy mentors in navigating your career. 2023-04-1347 min
The Portia ProjectCaryn SchenewerkCaryn Schenewerk works at the cutting edge of space law and policy -- from the highest levels of the federal government to the early days of SpaceX and now as an adjunct law professor, co-author of a leading space law handbook, and the leader of Relativity Space’s regulatory efforts and policy engagement with all branches and levels of government. In this episode, she sits down with MC Sungaila to share the lessons she learned from her evolving career, and the developing opportunities in the space industry. This episode is the second episode to feature women leaders in space la...2023-04-101h 04
The Portia ProjectTheresa HarrisTheresa Harris, the Program Director of the AAAS Scientific Responsibility, Human Rights and Law Program, sits down with host M.C. Sungaila to discuss her organization's role in connecting scientists with human rights concerns, and her career path from more traditional human rights law leadership to her current role, where she manages projects that include a volunteer referral service that provides technical support for human rights organizations, activities that promote greater understanding of the human right to science, and a new project on artificial intelligence and human rights. This is an inspiring episode for lawyers who want to explore t...2023-04-061h 03
The Portia ProjectHolly KirbyTennessee Supreme Court Justice Holly Kirby sits down with host MC Sungaila to share her path to the bench, including, prior to the state supreme court, becoming the first woman in Tennessee history to serve on the Tennessee Court of Appeals. 2023-04-0355 min
The Portia ProjectAnne M. BurkeFormer Illinois Supreme Court Chief Justice Anne M. Burke sits down with M.C. Sungaila for a wide-ranging discussion on her path to the bench, her role as a founder of the Special Olympics, and the importance of teaching critical thinking and civics education to the future of the judicial system. She also shares tips on brief writing and presenting a powerful oral argument, and why cursive writing is a practical skill every lawyer should possess.2023-03-3048 min
The Portia ProjectMegan K. CavanaghMichigan Supreme Court Justice Megan Cavanagh sits down with host M.C. Sungaila to discuss her career as an appellate lawyer and now as a Supreme Court justice of the state in which she grew up. 2023-03-2759 min
The Portia ProjectTexas Appellate Law Podcast Crossover Episode With D. Todd Smith And Jody SandersIn this bonus episode host MC Sungaila is joined for a crossover show with the co-hosts of the Texas Appellate Law Podcast, D. Todd Smith and Jody Sanders. They discuss the Portia Project’s recent milestone of the 100th episode, share insights from their appellate judge guests and conclude with some great tips on launching a successful legal podcast of your own. Don’t miss out on this special episode. 2023-03-2055 min
The Portia ProjectDawn H. BeamJoin MC Sungaila as she talks to Justice Dawn H. Beam about her journey to the Mississippi Supreme Court. Beam is the fourth woman to serve on the state’s highest court, and the first woman appointed from the Southern District. Find out what she learned in her journey, her tips for up-and-coming lawyers, and how she is making a difference when it comes to child protection, mental health, trauma, and much more.2023-03-1346 min
The Portia ProjectAnita EarlsJoining your host MC Sungaila on today’s episode is Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of North Carolina, Anita Earls. She has had an abundant career before the bench, doing significant civil rights work in different arenas, both for the federal government and nonprofits. Today, she shares her journey to the bench and important lessons she gained along the way. Judge Earls also gives insight into working with a diverse group on the bench and offers valuable advice for lawyers and law students who aspire to a similar path. Tune in to learn more about her passion for th...2023-03-0946 min
The Portia ProjectJamie BeckThe Founder of Free to Thrive, Jamie Beck advocates for and represents human-trafficking survivors so they can start living their lives. Aside from being the Founder, President, and Managing Attorney of Free to Thrive, she is also an Adjunct Lecturer in Law at USC Gould School of Law and teaches a course on “Trauma-Informed Legal Skills,” creating the next generation of trauma-informed lawyers. Today, MC Sungaila talks to her about her non-profit organization and how she got so passionate about solving the issue of human trafficking.2023-03-0650 min
The Portia ProjectDorothy W. Nelson And Lisa KloppenbergMentors are invaluable. This special joint episode highlights individual mentoring relationships. This episode features Judge Dorothy W. Nelson, Senior Circuit Judge on the U.S. Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals and her former law clerk Lisa Kloppenberg, a University of Santa Clara Law Professor, former law school Dean and Interim Provost of Santa Clara University. Host M.C. Sungaila also counts Judge Nelson among her mentors, having served as one of Judge Nelson's externs. Professor Kloppenberg recently celebrated Judge Nelson's impact on her students, law clerks, and the law by...2023-03-021h 14
The Portia ProjectConsuelo Maria "Connie" CallahanU.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit Judge Consuelo Maria "Connie" Callahan joins MC Sungaila to describe her journey from lawyer to judge and her commitment to the rule of law. She also provides advocacy tips for both appellate brief writers and oral advocates. Listen in for valuable insights and practical tips. 2023-02-271h 18
The Portia ProjectNoma D. GurichToday’s guest is Oklahoma Supreme Court Justice Noma D. Gurich. Justice Gurich joins MC Sungaila to share her journey from law school to the bench. Not being an Oklahoma native presented its challenges. Her mindset of always being prepared and open to opportunities became key to her career path. She sheds light on what it’s like working in the Supreme Court and shares the challenges the court faced during the COVID-19 pandemic. Listen in for essential tips for aspiring lawyers and judges. 2023-02-231h 12
The Portia ProjectCamila LopezCamilla Lopez, co-founder of access to justice legal tech company People Clerk, joins host MC Sungaila to share her journey to becoming a lawyer-entrepreneur who helps individuals navigate small claims court. She discusses what's involved in running a successful start-up, from funding the company's growth (People Clerk is a Techstars alum backed by Google's Latino Founders Fund) to finding the right mentors and listening to customer feedback in expanding and growing their services. 2023-02-2051 min
The Portia ProjectElspeth B. CypherHost MC Sungaila talks with Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court Justice Elspeth Cypher who shares her journey to the bench, from civil practice to chief of the appellate division in the district attorney's office. Listen in as she shares both valuable tips you can use in court and inspiring wisdom for aspiring women lawyers and law students. 2023-02-131h 14
The Portia ProjectJessica AronoffJoining MC Sungaila today is Jessica Aronoff, CEO of Cayton Children's Museum. Jessica entered law school with no intention of becoming a lawyer. Her goal? Doing impactful work in a nonprofit. As it turns out, having a law degree was indeed a valuable tool and asset for her work in the field. In this episode, Jessica shares her evolution in the nonprofit space, from Executive Director of teen dating violence organization Break the Cycle to Vice President of Philanthropy for The Wonderful Company. Jessica's career path demonstrates the different ways you can apply your law degree. Tune in to...2023-02-091h 00
The Portia ProjectMelissa HartJustice Melissa Hart of the Colorado Supreme Court shares her journey from U.S. Supreme Court clerk to U.S. Department of Justice trial attorney, law professor, and now member of her state's highest court. With host MC Sungaila, she explains her intuitive approach to career decisions, the long-term impact of mentoring on her career trajectory, and best practices in appellate advocacy. 2023-02-061h 11
The Portia ProjectJessica S. HenryWhat exactly are no crime wrongful convictions? In this episode, Jessica S. Henry shares thought-provoking insights from her new book, Smoke but No Fire: Convicting the Innocent of Crimes that Never Happened. Jessica is a professor, legal commentator, social justice advocate, and blogger. Her award-winning book highlights a prevailing yet underlooked issue in the legal justice system that impacts the victims of such phenomena and society at large. Along with host MC Sungaila, the two discuss the various downstream effects of wrongful convictions and how we can remedy the system to help the community instead of punishing already disadvantaged...2023-02-0256 min
The Portia ProjectYolanda V. TorresYolanda V. Torres of the Orange County Superior Court shares her journey from being the first in her family to graduate from college to serving on the bench. With host MC Sungaila, she shares how her diverse experience as both a law professor and family law attorney, and as a past president of the Orange County Hispanic Bar Association serves her well as a judge. Listen in to hear her inspiring journey.2023-01-3049 min
The Portia ProjectM. Margaret McKeownU.S. Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals Judge Margaret McKeown, the first woman partner at Perkins Coie and a White House Fellow, shares her career journey from lawyer to judge, and provides insights into the crafting of a judicial opinion and good legal writing. With host MC Sungaila, she also discusses her book Citizen Justice: The Environmental Legacy of William O. Douglas―Public Advocate and Conservation Champion. Judge McKeown tells the inspiration behind writing it and which skills in writing judicial opinions translated into her work as a book author. There's a lot to learn from this episode. Be in...2023-01-261h 02
The Portia ProjectNoella A. SudburyNoella A. Sudbury is the Founder and CEO of Rasa Public Benefit Corporation, a new legal tech company on a mission to make the process of clearing a record simple and affordable for everyone. In this episode, she talks with MC Sungaila about her career journey—from attending law school, going to the public defender's office, working in Utah's leading appellate law boutique, transitioning to Goldman Sachs to gain management and team building experience, then moving to government policy work which led her to found Rasa. Noella's journey is an unconventional one. Tune in to hear insights from a si...2023-01-231h 10
The Portia ProjectAndrea Sheridan OrdinAndrea Sheridan Ordin -- the first female United States Attorney for the Central District of California—and only the third female U.S. Attorney in American history— discusses her path to this and other leadership positions in government. Among other roles, Ms. Ordin has also served as Los Angeles County Counsel, Chief Assistant Attorney General of California, and on the Los Angeles Police Commission. In this episode, she sits down with MC Sungaila to discuss her path to these different roles and offers leadership lessons.2023-01-1655 min
The Portia ProjectSabrina Shizue McKennaPathbreaking Hawaii Supreme Court Justice Sabrina Shizue McKenna sits down with host M.C. Sungaila to discuss how perseverance, confidence in your skills, humility, and persistence can help you achieve new heights. Listen in as Justice McKenna discusses her journey from Japan to Hawaii, playing college athletics and getting a scholarship as a result of Title IX, and joining the bench after a distinguished law firm and inhouse counsel career.2023-01-1252 min
The Portia ProjectKaren M. AshbyHost MC Sungaila sits down with retired Colorado Court of Appeals Judge Karen M. Ashby to discuss her trailblazing career as the first Black woman to be appointed to that court. Judge Ashby shares valuable insights from her experiences as a public defender, trial court judge, and appellate judge. She describes how her path has paved the way for others, and how judges' diverse experiences contribute to decision making2022-12-2650 min
The Portia ProjectCaryn Geraghty JorgensenHost MC Sungaila talks about trials, mentors, and training the next generation with leading litigator Caryn Geraghty Jorgensen. Tune in for more great insights from women in the law.2022-12-1949 min
The Portia ProjectJacqueline NguyenJudge Jacqueline Nguyen talks with host M.C. Sungaila about her experience as a refugee during the Vietnam War and her journey to becoming a judge, from private law practice to serving as a prosecutor in the U.S. Attorney's Office in the Central District of California. Before her confirmation to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit, Judge Nguyen was also the first Asian American woman to serve as a district judge on the United States District Court for the Central District of California. 2022-12-1539 min
The Portia ProjectKim HardemanHost MC Sungaila discusses the importance of empathy and human understanding in the law with Iowa trial lawyer Kim Hardeman, a Partner at Lederer Weston Craig PLC. She traces her career and explains why the human touch is important in law and the myriad of ways women are assets on any legal team. Want to know more about women's progress in the field of law? Then this episode is for you.2022-12-1249 min
The Portia ProjectBarbara J. DawsonHost MC Sungaila trades insights with Barbara J. Dawson, a litigation partner and the incoming Chair of Snell & Wilmer, about recognizing leadership opportunities, authenticity, how to become highly engaged with and navigate your law firm, and the importance of having a sense of community. 2022-12-0857 min
The Portia ProjectDeborah R. HenslerFor the first time, the podcast features a trailblazing guest who, despite having had a major impact on law and policy globally, does not have a law degree. Join your host MC Sungaila as she dives deep into a conversation with Deborah R. Hensler, Ph.D., the Judge John W. Ford Professor of Dispute Resolution at Stanford Law School, and former inaugural chair of the RAND Institute for Civil Justice. Professor Hensler discusses her pathbreaking research and policy work on asbestos litigation and class actions, and describes her unique approach top identifying and addressing emerging issues and global trends...2022-12-011h 12
The Portia ProjectErin WilsonErin Wilson, General Counsel of CU Direct, joins MC Sungaila to discuss the interpretive role played by general counsel, the importance of facilitating communication between various stakeholders in the business, and how her prior work in aerospace, advertising, and even the music business inform her work today. Learn what it takes to work as part of an in-house legal team, and a C-suite leader.2022-11-2854 min
The Portia ProjectAnn KapplerAnn Kappler, Executive Vice President and General Counsel at Prudential Financial, sits down with host MC Sungaila to discuss her career journey from a law clerk at the U.S. Supreme Court to BigLaw and a key member of the executive leadership team at a Fortune 100 company. 2022-11-1754 min
The Portia ProjectChase T. RogersChase T. Rogers, former Chief Justice of the Connecticut Supreme Court, sits down with host M.C. Sungaila to share her journey to the bench and beyond. She also discusses the importance of building a team with diverse experiences and provides appellate advocacy tips. This episode is powered by Posh.2022-11-141h 03
The Portia ProjectAmanda PaletzThe Joseph Project connects human trafficking survivors with attorneys who represent them pro bono to help them with various legal issues arising from their trafficking experience. M.C. Sungaila sits down with Amanda Paletz, the project’s Legal Director, who describes the Project's holistic approach to helping survivors get back on their feet. The project’s legal team works hard to build a network of providers for counseling, medical, and dental services. When the survivors cannot cover the costs, they set aside a fund to cover that. Join in the conversation to discover the power an empathetic approach to the...2022-11-1041 min
The Portia ProjectSasha M. CummingsIn this episode, M.C. Sungaila takes a look at the fine art of mediation with Sasha M. Cummings, a mediator with the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. Prior to becoming an appellate mediator with the Court, Ms. Cummings worked as a litigator for over 15 years. She discusses her path in the law, and what it's like to mediate cases with the Court.2022-10-311h 12
The Portia ProjectDana KuehnOklahoma Supreme Court Justice Dana Kuehn, the first woman to serve on both of the state's high courts (the Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals and Supreme Court), sits down with host MC Sungaila to discuss her career trajectory, including her path to the bench, and shares insights on effective advocacy, appellate briefwriting, and moving from the role of trial lawyer to service on both the trial court and appellate bench. 2022-10-2455 min
The Portia ProjectSonia Escobio O'DonnellM.C. Sungaila welcomes Sonia Escobio O'Donnell, Partner at Sonia Escobio O’Donnell P.A., and the former Chief of Appeals and Head Deputy Assistant U.S. Attorney in the Miami U.S. Attorneys' office at a time when few women held such roles. Sonia shares how she helped foster the hiring of more diverse attorneys in the U.S. Attorney's office, and how her judicial clerkship and relationship with the judge she worked for, as well as her work with other significant mentors, impacted her career. Join in the conversation to learn from Sonia’s experiences.2022-10-2451 min
The Portia ProjectNancy Wieben StockJudge Nancy Wieben Stock served for over two decades on the Superior Court of California in Orange County. After her lengthy career, she is now serving as a full-time mediator, private judge, and arbitrator for JAMS, Inc. In her chat with host MC Sungaila, Judge Stock shares her journey from the bench to her current role as a private neutral. Tune into their discussion to learn more about Judge Stock’s career.2022-10-2054 min
The Portia ProjectMary Card MinaHost MC Sungaila chats with Mary Card Mina, a Supervisory Attorney for a federal government agency, the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS), and a former Judge Advocate General in the U.S. Army. They discuss the important influences in her career as a lawyer, the valuable lessons she learned from her experience in the military, and how volunteer work shaped her as a lawyer. In addition, Mary shares the many ways lawyers, especially women lawyers, can find opportunities to develop as leaders in law. Listen in for valuable insights on leadership, meaningful work, and finding success as...2022-10-101h 01
The Portia ProjectMaria StrattonJustice Maria Stratton shares her journey from the public defender's office to the bench. She highlights the importance of mentors along the way, including the federal judge for whom she clerked. She also shares some great tips on appellate advocacy with host M.C. Sungaila.2022-10-061h 01
The Portia ProjectKimberly "Kate" Anne KnillJudge Kimberly "Kate" Anne Knill of the Orange County Superior Court came to the trial court with experience both as an appellate advocate and a research attorney for the Court of Appeal. In this episode, host M.C. Sungaila and Judge Knill take a look back at her path to the bench and her love affair with the law. Judge Knill describes her experience as an advocate and a judge and discusses what inspired her to seek a position on the bench. Tune in for some great insights from an inspiring woman in the law.2022-10-031h 03
The Portia ProjectRhonda K. WoodM.C. Sungaila sits down with Justice Rhonda K. Wood, an Associate Justice on the Arkansas Supreme Court and co-host of the Lady Justice podcast, to hear her path to the bench in a state where judges are elected, and her legal career in the then-nascent specialty of privacy law in the medical context (HIPPA). She also provides some solid tips on appellate advocacy. For example, Justice Wood suggests that lawyers ask for exactly what kind of relief they want, and provide an alternative outcome in the event the Court cannot reach consensus to grant the primary form of...2022-09-291h 01
The Portia ProjectSarah Beth LandauJustice Sarah Beth Landau is the first public defender elected to the First Court of Appeals in Texas. With host M.C. Sungaila she shares insights from her journey, including becoming a judge through an elected process, appellate brief writing, and mentorship.2022-09-261h 09
The Portia ProjectJennifer L. KellerJennifer L. Keller is one of America’s most successful trial attorneys. Ranked among the top commercial litigators in the nation, people describe Jennifer as “one of the best trial lawyers in California,” “has uncanny instincts, a wonderful courtroom demeanor, and an extremely clear and effective communicator,” and “absolutely unflappable in court and builds a strong rapport and credibility with judges and decision-makers.” Today, she joins MC Sungaila to talk about some of her work and what attracted her to the profession. She also shares tips on finding opportunities to have a wonderful trial experience. Get to know this excellent tria...2022-09-221h 07
The Portia ProjectCyndie M. ChangM.C. Sungaila sits down with Cyndie M. Chang, the Los Angeles Office Managing Partner at Duane Morris. Cyndie discusses the importance of cultural fit in choosing a law firm -- and how that can lead to leadership opportunities-- as well as her national bar leadership positions. She describes the importance of mentors in her career, and how she pays it forward by supporting and inspiring the next generation.2022-09-1941 min
The Portia ProjectDawn Du VerneyIn this episode, host MC Sungaila chats with Chief Deputy Clerk Dawn Du Verney of the Western District of Tennessee to uncover how her current role combines her degree in law and her skills on the administrative side, gained from various executive leadership and legal positions within corporate, academic, nonprofit, and government sectors. She touches on the importance of developing soft skills and having the right team of mentors to guide you in your career. She also talks about her experience as a woman working in the legal field and how we can further support each other in the...2022-09-1553 min
The Portia ProjectJessica HubbardIn her role as Chief Program Officer for the nonprofit Girls, Inc. in Orange County, California, Jessica Hubbard combines her experience as an educator with her legal training to help girls become strong, smart, and bold. With host M.C. Sungaila, Jessica discusses her pursuit of a law degree and how she decided to apply those skills on behalf of an organization dedicated to mentoring girls and young women.2022-09-1240 min
The Portia ProjectHillary H. HolmesMC Sungaila sits down with Hillary H. Holmes, co-chair of Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher’s Capital Markets practice. She emphasizes the importance of clear and candid communication when dealing with clients, making the process smoother and more meaningful. Hillary also talks about how well-managed relationships can turn into potential referrals years later and the power of chasing after opportunities instead of simply waiting around. 2022-09-081h 16
The Portia ProjectPaula W. HintonThe path to success is rarely a straight one. Paula Hinton shares her journey from watching her trial lawyer father in court to trying cases herself. Paula is a Complex Commercial Litigator and Partner at Winston & Strawn LLP, and previously served as a member of its Executive Committee. She offers incredible advice on litigating, leading, and carving your own path. Tune in to hear her chat with host M.C. Sungaila for valuable lessons in law and life.2022-09-051h 07
The Portia ProjectDiane Pamela WoodDiane P. Wood is a Circuit Judge of the United States Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit and a Senior Lecturer in Law at the University of Chicago Law School. She joins MC Sungaila to share how she went from wanting to be comparative literature scholar to sitting on the bench. There are different ways to join the bench with variety of roles covering multiple areas of the law. Judge Wood also shares the importance and the value of pro bono work not only for those in need but for lawyers who want to learn while serving and...2022-09-0159 min
The Portia ProjectL. Rachel LermanIn this episode, host M.C. Sungaila is joined by General Counsel and Vice-Chair for the Louis D. Brandeis Center for Human Rights Under Law, L. Rachel Lerman. She shares her journey from art to the law, and from a career in appellate law to one focused on civil rights protections for Jewish students and tackling anti-Semitism.2022-08-2951 min
The Portia ProjectLarisa DinsmoorM.C. Sungaila sits with Larisa Dinsmoor, a Public Defender for the Orange County Public Defender’s Office and Past President of the Orange County Bar Association, one of California's largest bar organizations. Larisa shares her path to bar leadership, her role as a public defender, and her experience with international human rights work.2022-08-1846 min
The Portia ProjectJessie KornbergSkirball Cultural Center CEO Jessie Kornberg - who set the leadership framework for Ms. J.D. and led public interest organization Bet Tzedek in Los Angeles- brings two decades of civil rights work to Skirball’s leadership team. In this episode, she sits down with M.C. Sungaila to reflect on that journey and share how she navigated these leadership paths and transferred her legal skills to the cultural space.2022-08-1146 min
The Portia ProjectCamila MaturanaImmigration law is an important yet often overlooked area of law, but it is one that affects a significant population in the country. Here to discuss the ins and outs of practicing immigration law in the nonprofit sector is Camila Maturana. Camila is a supervising attorney with the Northwest Immigrant Rights Project (NWIRP) Tacoma and South Unit. In this episode, she opens up to MC Sungaila on how her family history and experience led her to study law and ultimately pursue work helping undocumented citizens. Learn more about the field and get helpful tips by tuning in.2022-08-0849 min
The Portia ProjectKalpana SrinivasanM.C. Sungaila sits down with Kalpana Srinivasan, co-managing partner of one of the U.S.'s leading boutique litigation firms, Susman Godfrey. She discusses her path from journalism to the law, from a federal clerkship to high profile litigation and becoming one of the few women of color to lead a major law firm. She provides powerful insights into navigating a law firm and gaining valuable skills and experience along the way. Tune in for in-depth insights on law and leadership! 2022-08-041h 07
The Portia ProjectDebra H. LehrmannJustice Debra H. Lehrmann is a senior Justice on the Supreme Court of Texas and the Court’s longest-serving woman justice in Texas history. She joins MC Sungaila to share her journey to the Supreme Court, and to provide some appellate advocacy tips and insights for those appearing before Texas' highest court. 2022-08-011h 21
The Portia ProjectBridget McCormackToday’s guest is Chief Justice Bridget Mary McCormack of the Michigan Supreme Court, one of the cohosts of the Lady Justice podcast. She sits down with M.C. Sungaila to talk about how being Chief Justice has helped her impact the legal system. Chief Justice McCormack shares her work prior to the bench as a criminal defender, and as a law professor and dean of clinical education, including in innocence clinics seeking to exonerate the wrongly convicted. She also gives advice for law students on their careers, and for lawyers on advocacy, and describes one of the most re...2022-07-2843 min
The Portia ProjectGirls Inc.As part of a Girls Inc. Of Orange County "Girls Meet the Workforce" job readiness And Externship program, about 100 11thgrade girls from Orange County gathered at Santa Ana College for a live recording of the Portia Project® podcast, which featured prominent female lawyers and judges from Southern California. This live event featured previous podcast guests and was tailored for Girls Inc. of Orange County attendees. In addition to podcast host M.C. Sungaila, panelists included Justices Eileen Moore and Joanne Motoike of the California Court of Appeal; Justice Kimberly Knill of the Orange County Superior Co...2022-07-2849 min
The Portia ProjectLeigh FerrinMany people lack access to, or funds for, a lawyer. This makes public interest work an essential part of our legal system. M.C. Sungaila delves into the public interest space with Leigh Ferrin, the Director of Litigation and Pro Bono at the Public Law Center. Leigh shares how and why she chose to work in the public interest arena, and how she leads and coordinates both the team of staff attorneys at the Public Law Center and the attorneys who volunteer their time pro bono to help the Center's clients. She also shares her insights on the need f...2022-07-2135 min
The Portia ProjectNicole BershonJudge Nicole Bershon was appointed to the Los Angeles Superior Court in 2013 by Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. Prior to becoming a judge, she served as a court commissioner and even an inspector general just to name a few of her varied roles in law during her practice. In this episode, she chats with MC Sungaila to share the twists and turns of her journey to the bench, from commissioner to superior court judge, and the supportive community of mentors that helped her along the way. Learn more about her journey by tuning in. 2022-07-1852 min
The Portia ProjectNicole Clark, Dorna Moini, Jacqui SchaferIn this episode, M.C. Sungaila interviews an esteemed panel of female legal tech founders: Nicole Clark of Trellis Research, Inc., Dorna Moini of Documate, and Jacqueline Schafer of Clearbrief. They discuss their respective businesses and the pain points that pushed them to move from law into the legal tech space. This standout trio is working on ways to use emerging tech to accelerate court processes, and impact access to justice. Tune in for practical tips and insights from the ones paving the way in the tech industry, where female founders still face significant barriers. Note: Trellis...2022-07-141h 19
The Portia ProjectChristine ByrdMC Sungaila welcomes the Honorable Christine Byrd of the Los Angeles Superior Court, whose path to the family law bench included serving as a federal prosecutor and BigLaw partner. She offers valuable career advice -- including making sure you are paid commensurate with the value you bring to the law firm you work at -- and how women's career paths often involve multiple lateral moves in order to gain promotions and experience.2022-07-1151 min
The Portia ProjectAnna Blackburne-RigsbyMC Sungaila is joined by the Honorable Anna Blackburne-Rigsby, Chief Judge of the District of Columbia Court of Appeals. Chief Judge Blackburne-Rigsby shares her journey as a Black woman lawyer and the advocacy and inspiration that spurred her towards a place on the bench. She describes the influence of her mother (now a retired judge), and that of her peers and mentors, and how she is in turn helping to inspire and train the next generation of lawyers.2022-07-0759 min
The Portia ProjectJennifer FriendM.C. Sungaila sits down with former law firm partner and litigator Jennifer Friend, now CEO of Project Hope Alliance. Jennifer shares her experience of homelessness and how that led her to law school, litigating in a law firm, and now leading a non-profit organization whose mission is to help homeless youth succeed in life. Jennifer is a beacon of kindness and mercy, and articulately explains how her litigation skills make her an effective nonprofit leader.2022-07-041h 20
The Portia ProjectTracy LeSageSenior Assistant Orange County Public Defender, Tracy LeSage, talks to M.C. Sungaila about her experience defending those accused of crimes, from misdemeanors to serious felonies. She provides insights into the value of a judicial clerkship, and the very personal rewards of representing the vulnerable and helping them recover their future. 2022-06-2743 min
The Portia ProjectRebecca A. DelfinoWe’re in for a treat as MC Sungaila dabbles a little bit more into legal academia as a career option for lawyers and law students. Joining her is Professor Rebecca A. Delfino of the Loyola Law School in Los Angeles. Professor Delfino wears many hats in the school, most notably as a Professor of Law and Faculty Adviser of the Moot Court program. She takes us back into her storied journey from law school to law firm, the Court of Appeal, and eventually, back to law school where she’s now busy molding a new generation of law profes...2022-06-2358 min
The Portia ProjectLyrissa LidskyHost M.C. Sungaila sits down with Lyrissa Lidsky, Dean of the University of Missouri School of Law. Lyrissa discusses her passion for teaching and her career journey from a small town in Texas to leading a major law school. Listen as she shares the challenges and rewards her academic career has brought her -- and how surviving breast cancer while serving as Dean impacted her, her family, and her academic community. 2022-06-161h 05
The Portia ProjectDanielle J. ViolaArizona trial court Judge Danielle Viola joins M.C. Sungaila to discuss how her policy work with the Arizona state government and law practice at the venerable Phoenix-based firm Snell & Wilmer collectively inform her approach to problem solving and decision making on the bench. She also provides some solid advice for litigators in the trial court.2022-06-0954 min
The Portia ProjectSheila Murphy M.C. Sungaila discusses the ins and outs of improving and developing your business development skills with Sheila Murphy, a former Senior Legal Officer for a Fortune 50 company and current President, CEO and General Counsel of Focus Forward Consulting. As a certified coach and career and business consultant, Sheila Murphy helps lawyers, leaders and legal organizations build fulfilling and thriving careers, practices and businesses by helping them develop skills that bring their game to the next level. Tune in and learn more as Sheila Murphy provides tips for career success.2022-06-061h 00
The Portia ProjectKatrina FoleyJoin MC Sungaila as she talks to attorney and member of the Orange County, California Board of Supervisors Katrina Foley about becoming a community leader. Prior to her election to the Board of Supervisors, Katrina served as Costa Mesa’s first directly elected Mayor and a member of the Costa Mesa City Council for 12 years, in addition to running her own firm, The Foley Group. Katrina discusses her desire to and focus on serving her community and her constituents, why she studied law in the first place (to help women and girls and victims of dom...2022-06-0254 min
The Portia ProjectPatricia Hunt HolmesLegal thriller author Patricia Hunt Holmes spent 30 years as a public finance attorney with a large international law firm specializing in nonprofit healthcare finance and rural electric cooperative finance. She sits down with M.C. Sungaila to discuss what it was like to be one of the first women partners at her law firm, her journey from a Ph.D. to paralegal and then lawyer, and her current career as an author of legal thrillers that expose readers to real life issues, such as human trafficking. There is power in storytelling, especially in addressing contemporary social issues.2022-05-0957 min
The Portia ProjectTherese M. StewartTherese M. Stewart, Associate Justice of the California First District Court of Appeal, Division Two, chats with MC Sungaila about moving from a high-profile advocacy career to the bench, efforts to diversify the courts, and collaborating with her judicial colleagues. She provides an in-depth exploration of her work prior to the bench in the area of LGBT rights, both in private practice and at the City Attorney's Office. Tune in for an enlightening and inspiring discussion with valuable insights you can use in your practice.2022-05-021h 04
The Portia ProjectAnnaliese FlemingAnnaliese Fleming, Senior Associate Executive Director and General Counsel for the American Bar Association, joins M.C. Sungaila to talk about her experience leading the ABA's legal function. Listen in as Annaliese touches on her wide-ranging legal expertise from private practice to teaching and now as a trusted in-house advisor. Note: The thoughts and opinions are those of Annaliese Fleming personally and not official positions of the American Bar Association. 2022-04-2543 min
The Portia ProjectJudith Ashmann-GerstJoin your host M.C. Sungaila as she talks to Justice Judith Ashmann-Gerst of the California Court of Appeal about her journey to the bench, from night law school to the trial court and then the court of appeal. She also shares some insights for advocates appearing before the court of appeal.2022-02-281h 02
The Portia ProjectChristine MayleIn this episode, MC Sungaila talks shop with Christine Mayle, Judge, Ohio Sixth District Court of Appeals. Judge Mayle discusses what drew her towards appellate law, and what drove her towards a position as a judge on the Court Of Appeals. Tune in to learn more of Judge Mayle’s journey and why appellate law is so important. 2022-02-2143 min
The Portia ProjectElizabeth D. Walker Joining M.C. Sungaila is Elizabeth D. Walker, Justice of the West Virginia Supreme Court and Co-Host of the podcast Lady Justice: Women of the Court. She shares the ups and downs in her life as a judge, her path to the bench by running for elected office, changes in her state's court system, and weathering an impeachment trial to come out on top as Chief Justice. She also provides practical tips on becoming an effective lawyer who can leave a lasting impact.2022-02-0757 minThe Portia ProjectWelcome to the Portia Project™️ PodcastWelcome to the Portia Project™️ Podcast, a podcast designed to celebrate and share the careers, personal stories, and hard earned wisdom of accomplished women judges and lawyers, in order to educate and encourage the next generation of women lawyers. The Portia Project™️ Podcast, hosted by noted appellate lawyer M.C. Sungaila, features current and retired female appellate judges, prominent trial judges, general counsel, and other successful lawyers, including those in nontraditional careers involving a law degree, such as leading a nonprofit organization, founding a legal tech company, or writing legal thrillers. The variety...2022-01-3101 min