The Aspen Leading Edge Podcast

4.15.25 Bernard Burk, Veronica Finkelstein, Wilmington University School of Law, and Nancy Rapoport, William S. Boyd School of Law, discuss the second edition of their book Ethical Lawyering: A Guide for the Well-Intentioned and the importance of teaching Professional Responsibility. They also share their thoughts about AI in the field and how accounting firms are now adding lawyers. Veronica also gives an update on the new Wilmington University School of Law.

4.8.25 David Sklansky, Stanford Law School, and Andrea Roth, UC Berkeley, discuss the sixth edition of Evidence: Cases, Commentary, and Problems. They share details about the robust teacher’s manual and why they like teaching the course. There is also discussion about the rules of evidence and some of the unanswered questions.      

4.1.25 What’s the future of Wills, Trusts, and Estates in law school and beyond? In this episode, Naomi Cahn of the University of Virginia and Alyssa DiRusso of Samford University delve into the newly updated Wills, Trusts, and Estates in Focus, exploring why this field is more crucial than ever. From the impact of the NextGen Bar Exam to the rising demand for estate planning lawyers, they break down what aspiring attorneys need to know.

3.25.25 Andrew Manuel Crespo, Harvard Law School and the Institute to End Mass Incarceration, shares his journey from public defender to professor as well as the inspiration behind writing the first edition of Criminal Law and the American Penal System alongside John Rappaport. He gives details on what is included in the book and what students are looking for in their Criminal Law classes.

3.18.25 Douglas Whaley, Ohio State University, discusses his years of working in legal education and what changes he has seen throughout. He also shares his busy year of updating numerous casebooks including Problems and Materials on Secured Transactions, Problems and Materials on Commercial Law, and Problems and Materials on Debtor and Creditor Law.

3.11.25 Joesph Glannon, Suffolk University, and Jennifer Reynolds, University of Oregon, share their tips for first-time professors, especially for those teaching civil procedure, including the benefits of banning electronics and less is more when assigning materials. They also share the updates to the new edition of Civil Procedure: A Coursebook.

3.4.25 Richard Epstein and Catherine Sharkey, New York University School of Law, share the story of how they developed the first edition of Business, Defamation, and Privacy Torts. They also share their thoughts on the changes to torts, including the addition of social media, public nuisance, and how torts will change from the different administrations.

2.25.25 Todd Berger, Director of Advocacy Programs at Syracuse University College of Law, discusses his new book, Comprehensive Criminal Procedure in Focus, along with the Investigative and Adjudicative splits. He also shares details of Syracuse’s joint J.D./LL.M in Advocacy and Litigation as well as the podcast course he teaches.

2.12.25 Co-founders of Ex Judicata, Neil Handwerker and Kimberly Fine, join Patty Roberts for a discussion about Ex Judicata and how it serves law students, law schools, lawyers, and law firms. From the wide range of webinars to the career match tool to access to multiple career coaches, this service is for anyone who may be looking for a different career.

2.4.25 Michael Tumposky, Northeastern University School of Law discusses the details of his book, Evidence in Focus: A Practitioner’s Approach, First Edition. He and Patty Roberts also talk about how AI will be shaping trial preparation.

1.28.25 Twinette Johnson, Dean of St. Louis University School of Law, reflects on her journey to legal education and her first semester as Dean. She also shares her path to returning to SLU after receiving her bachelor’s degree and what she loves about the university and the community. Twinette advises those wanting to get into legal education and the importance of finding mentors and building relationships.

1.22.25 Florence Roisman, Indiana University, Stacy Seicshnaydre, Tulane University, and Rigel Oliveri, University of Missouri, discuss the first edition of their book, The Right to Fair Housing. From its origin to the multiple courses it can cater to, the book is the first and only of its kind. Florence and Stacy also talk about their involvement and the importance of the Inclusive Community Project.

1.15.25 Melanie Wilson, Dean of Washington and Lee University's School of Law, and Austen Parrish, Dean of UC Irvine School of Law, discuss Melanie’s year as president of AALS. They also share the changes the organization has made throughout the years. Austen provides hopes for his upcoming year as president of AALS.

1.7.25 Dean Melanie Jacobs shares how the Louis D. Brandeis School of Law is revolutionizing legal education by combining doctrinal rigor with hands-on experiential learning. She introduces the innovative immigration law clinic that is fostering practical skills in every student. Plus, learn about the legacy of Justice Louis D. Brandeis, including the story how the school obtained his robe. She also talks about the prestigious Brandeis Medal being awarded to Justice Sonia Sotomayor.

12.17.24 Chance Meyer, New England Law, and Patty Baia, Touro Law School, discuss the upcoming Aspen course Mind for Law. This mini course helps students either entering or already in law school discover their learning style and how to use it properly. They discuss the details about the course, including the importance of enhancing long-term memory and avoiding regurgitation of knowledge.

12.10.24 Leah Teague and Elizabeth Fraley, Baylor University, discuss the second edition of their book, Fundamentals of Lawyer Leadership: A Skills Guide to Professional Identity Formation, including more in-depth sections about the leadership of self and civil discourse. They discuss the importance of having tough conversations and how to do so with compassion and civility.

12.3.24 Join us for an enlightening conversation with William McGeveran, the newly appointed dean of Minnesota Law, who brings a wealth of experience and insight to the role. In this episode, we dive into his vision for the law school, including the impressive array of 28 clinics that offer students hands-on learning opportunities, such as a groundbreaking clinic focused on gun violence and a unique name/image likeness clinic tailored for college athletes and influencers. McGeveran discusses the importance of transactional skills in today’s legal landscape and his plans to expand the faculty while raising the national profile of Minnesota Law. We also explore the importance of including data privacy courses in the curriculum.

11.19.24 Join Nicole Dyszlewski, Assistant Dean for Curricular Innovation at Roger Williams University, as she
discusses the groundbreaking Race and the Foundation of American Law course, now required for all law students. Nicole shares how the course explores race in the legal system through guest speakers and a public webinar series. She also talks about the impact of the first Social Justice Summer Camp for middle school students. Tune in to hear how Nicole is shaping the future of legal education and social justice.

11.12.24 In this episode, we sit down with Sophie Dye Gayle, Director of Legal Education and Innovation at Themis Bar Review, to explore the exciting changes coming to the bar exam and legal education. Sophie discusses the NextGen Bar Exam, including the integrated questions, change in scoring, and inclusion of Family Law. She also shares how Themis is preparing future law students and schools for the new exam as well as predicts other upcoming changes to bar prep.

10.30.24 Lolita Buckner Inniss, Colorado Law, shares her journey to becoming dean and her thoughts about being the 17thdean, the second woman dean, and the first Black dean. She also talks about being President of the women in legal education section of AALS and the increase in female law students. Lolita also brings up the new Introduction to Law for undergraduates at the University of Colorado Boulder.

10.23.24 Seth Stoughton and Chris Cowan, University of South Carolina, share the origins and details of the Excellence in Policing and Public Safety (EPPS) Program, which is designed to advance policing and improve public safety outcomes through collaborative training, assistance research, and community partnerships. They also discuss why this program is important for current and future law officers.

10.16.24 Julie Hill, University of Wyoming, shares her journey from the University of Alabama and her favorite things about Wyoming, including the new building dedicated to clinics. She also talks about her thoughts about being the only law school in the state and how she wants to further support students.

10.9.24 D.J. Western, Appalachian School of Law, gives an update on how his community is doing after Hurricane Helene. He also discusses his journey from the Air Force to becoming a law school dean as well as updates on the school, including a Master of Legal Studies and a Veteran’s clinic.

10.1.24 Camille Abate, Brooklyn Law School and Founder and Master Trainer, Foundation for Excellence in Trial Advocacy, and Kathleen Mullin, Seton Hall University; Highly Qualified Subject Matter Expert, US Navy JAGC Defense Counsel Assistance Program discuss the second edition of their textbook, Advocacy Excellence: The Jury Trial. They also share their thoughts on the impact of social media and emojis on trials today and important skills students need to understand before becoming a trial lawyer. 

9.24.24 Dean Elizabeth Kronk Warner, University of Utah College of Law, shares her excitement on entering her sixth year as dean. She also shares her thoughts about the current election season and how to foster civility and respectful conversations. Dean Kronk Warner also talks about her time as a tribal court judge and supporting Native American law students.

9.17.24 Dean Leah Chan Grinvald, William S. Boyd School of Law at UNLV, shares her journey towards becoming a dean and reflects on her first two years at UNLV. Dean Grinvald also talks about the legal writing program and how the school has been rated as one of the best returns on investment.

9.10.24 Darby Dickerson, Dean of Southwestern Law School, reflects on 21 years of being a Dean including her time at University of Illinois Chicago School of Law, Texas Tech University, and Stetson University. She also shares current initiatives at Southwestern including a full-time online JD program and a faculty leadership series.

9.4.24 Haider Hamoudi, Dean of Cincinnati College of Law, reflects on his first year as Dean and shares his hopes for the upcoming year. He also discusses his publications, including Islamic Law in Modern Courts and Islamic Law in a Nutshell and his time as editor-in-chief of the Arab Law Quarterly.

8.27.24 Gerald Korngold, New York Law School, Nadav Shoked, Northwestern Law, and Hannah Wiseman, Penn State Law, discuss the eighth edition of Cases and Text on Property. From the addition of energy usage and climate change to an updated landlord/tenant section, this casebook focuses on contemporary and relevant issues for students.

8.20.24 Christine Klein, University of Florida, and Shannon Roesler, University of Iowa, discuss the third edition of their casebook, Property: Cases, Problems, and Skills. They share how their experience as environmental and natural resource law scholars influenced the casebook. Christine also gives insight into her Law of Fire and Flood course, while Shannon explains her popular one-week field study and Law of Geography program.

8.14.24 Josh Fershee, Dean of Creighton University School of Law, and Kendra Fershee, Professor at Creighton
University, discuss their journey to Omaha and their favorite parts of the city. Josh also discusses the numerous clinics currently being offered, including Community Connections, a legal resource center for the community.  

8.6.24 Ronald Weich, Seton Hall University, reflects on his 12 years as Dean of the University of Baltimore
School of Law and what he hopes as he begins his deanship at Seton Hall University. He also shares his thoughts about unifying and collaborative efforts that should be made between the law school and the university.

7.24.24 Reid Weisbord, Rutgers University, and David Horton, UC Davis, discuss the third edition of their coursebook, Wills, Trusts, and Estates: The Essentials, and what tools and resources they are offering for students and professors. They also talk about the future of the specialty and how A.I. may play a factor. 

7.16.24 Dan Filler, Drexel University, talks about being part of the inaugural faculty of the Kline School of Law and what the law school is doing to provide interdisciplinary opportunities. This includes a co-op program where students can earn academic credit for working with practitioners and a new undergraduate degree in law.

7.9.24 Andrew Verstein, University of California, Los Angeles School of Law, and Lynn LoPucki, University of Florida College of Law, talks about the second edition of Business Associations: A Systems Approach. They talk about the benefits of using a problem-based approach in a business associations course and what additional teaching materials they provide to help professors teach the course.

7.2.24 Michael Cahill, Brooklyn Law School, shares his experience of being Co-Dean at Rutgers University and Dean at Brooklyn Law School and what the transition is like to becoming a full-time professor again. He also goes into detail about the upcoming sixth edition of Criminal Law: Case Studies and Controversies and how he goes about teaching case studies. 

6.25.24 Andy Perlman, Suffolk University, shares his opinions on Generative AI and the future it will hold in both the legal profession and legal education. Including what use it may have in the admissions process both for the applicant and for the school. He also gives law school advice about
incorporating legal technology and innovation into the curriculum. 

6.20.24 Alex Ruskell, University of South Carolina, advises on preparing for the Bar Exam and shares what will be coming with the NextGen Bar Exam. He also speaks about his book Strategies & Tactics for the Finz Multistate Method.  

6.12.24 Bradley Wendel, Cornell Law School, talks about changing the seventh edition of Examples & Explanations Professional Responsibility, what will be coming up in the next edition of Torts: Cases and Materials, and the details behind his newest book, Canceling Lawyers. He also talks about how he relates moral philosophy in his class.

6.4.24 Alexandra Lahav, Cornell University, talks about the new edition of her casebook, Civil Procedure: Doctrine, Practice, and Context. She provides advice on how to teach the course with the textbook and what materials she adds to her course. Alexandra also shares details of her book, In Praise of Litigation.

5.28.24 Rachel Harmon, University of Virginia, talks about the second edition of her casebook, The Law of the Police, what changes have been made, and how other professors are teaching the material. She also discusses the government’s role in local policing.   

5.21.24 Megan Carpenter, University of New Hampshire Franklin Pierce, talks about the university’s hybrid JD program including the origin of the program and the unique immersion offerings included. She also describes the Daniel Webster’s Scholar Honor Program and how the students build their portfolios.  

5.14.24 June Carbone, University of Minnesota, Naomi Cahn, University of Virginia, and Nancy Levit, University of Missouri-Kansas City talk about their new book, Fair Shake: Women and the Fight to Build a Just Economy. They share examples of cases they’ve included in their book and discuss some statistics regarding employment discrimination and gender disparity.

5.7.24 Matthew Lyon, Vice President and Dean at Lincoln Memorial University Duncan School of Law, talks about being part of the origin of this law school and what the benefits are of being a younger law school. He also shares details about the new online, part-time degree program as well as experiential learning.

4.30.24 Howard Erichson, Fordham School of Law, and Maria Glover, Georgetown Law, talk about the second edition of their casebook, Civil Procedure, and why they initially decided to write the casebook. They also share details on how they each teach the course and how it has evolved over the years.

4.23.24 David Dye, Assistant Dean of Graduate Programs at Texas A&M, talks all about the Masters in Legal Studies. From the thirteen different specialties to the wide variety of benefits, David speaks on the importance of this program and why law schools should be proactive and incorporate this program.

4.17.24 June Carbone, Minnesota Law, and Rachel Rebouché, Dean of Temple University School of Law talk about the seventh edition of their Family Law casebook. They also share the importance of Family Law and how it is changing due to the Dobbs Decision.

4.9.24 Dean Marisa Cianciarulo of Western State College of Law shares her journey into deanship as
well as her goals for the university, including increasing the first-time bar passage rate and prioritizing online programs. She also describes the multiple clinics offered as well as upcoming ones with the new partnership with Westcliff University.

4.2.24 DeShayla Strachan, Mitchell Hamline School of Law, shares her journey of going from a journalism career to becoming a law professor and how her career has impacted her teaching. She also talks about her upcoming Examples & Explanations study guide on online legal research and how AI can be used as a benefit and secondary source in the classroom.

3.26.24 Karen Sneddon, Dean of Mercer University School of Law, talks about celebrating the 150th anniversary of the law school and what is on the horizon for experiential learning. She also shares how her experience in Legal Writing has affected her current teaching and deanship. Dean Sneddon also gives a preview of her upcoming collaboration for PracticePerfect Wills, Trusts, and Estates.  

3.20.24 Peter "Bo" Rutledge, University of Georgia, talks about his experience as a dean and some of his favorite university accomplishments including bringing over students from the Ukraine to stories about his faculty. He also shares advice for new deans. 

3.12.24 John Pierre, Chancellor of Southern University Law Center, speaks about the importance of incorporating technology, including iPads, at the law center. He also shares thoughts about the NextGen Bar Exam and how the law center is serving minority students.

3.5.24 Jeremy Counseller, Baylor Law School, and Eric Portfield, UNT Dallas talk with Patty Roberts about the third edition of their casebook Civil Procedure: In Focus. They share the additions of AI and COVID-19 in the text as well as their thoughts about using AI in the courtroom. Both authors also give updates on their universities including Counseller’s upcoming deanship.

Civil Procedure in Focus, Third Edition

2.27.24 Morse Tan, Liberty University School of Law, shares some highlights of his time as Ambassador at Large for Global Criminal Justice as well as his thoughts on current global affairs in Russia and Ukraine as well as The Middle East. Dean Tan also gives updates on Liberty University and their accomplishments in lawyering skills. 

2.20.24 Douglas NeJaime, Yale Law School, discusses the approaches and origin story of his casebook, Family Law in a Changing America which is now in its second edition. He also shares the importance of the Connecticut Parentage Act (CPA) and how other states approach parenting rights.

Family Law in a Changing America

2.13.24 Mike Spivey, founder of Spivey Consulting, shares his thoughts about how AI and Generative AI will affect Law School Admissions and how universities should embrace and prepare for the change. He also talks about the great work Spivey Consulting is doing for both students and admissions teams.

Spivey Consulting Website

The PowerScore/Spivey Consulting Law School Admissions Bible

2.6.24 Kellye Testy, Law School Admissions Council President and newly appointed Executive Director of AALS talks all about the organizations. She shares her thoughts about why they are so important for the legal education community and what she hopes to do during her time with AALS.

1.30.24 Dean of Roger Williams University School of Law, Gregory Bowman discusses his journey into deanship and the differences between his current school and previous school, West Virginia University. He also shares details on the required course called Race and the Foundations of American Law as well as the new Institute of Race and the Law.

1.23.24 Jerry Anderson, Drake University, and Daniel Bogart, Chapman University talk about the third edition of their casebook Property Law: Practice, Problems, and Perspectives and how it is edited to fit the Next Gen Bar Exam. They also discuss the needs of the modern learner and how each of their universities is adapting to new generations.

01.09.24 In this podcast series where Dean Patty Roberts connects with other Law School deans, she is joined by Robert Ahdieh, Dean and Vice President for Professional Schools and Programs at Texas A&M University. They talk about Texas law schools, the new Texas A&M Forth Worth campus, and Robert’s role in Professional Schools and Programs.

12.20.23 Allen Weiner, Stanford Law School, Duncan Hollis, Temple Law School, and Chimène Keitner, UC Davis School of Law, talk about the eighth edition of their International Law casebook. They also discuss how applicable International Law is in all other law school courses. Chimène also shared stories of her recent visit to Ukraine and thoughts on current events.

International Law, Eighth Edition

12.12.23 Anton Yakovlev and Elaine Page, Aspen Publishing, and Reid Weisbord, Rutgers Law School, talk about the development and details of Aspen Aloud which are narrated audio summaries based on the 1L and 2L Emanuel Law Outlines.  There is also a discussion about adjusting lesson plans to fit different learning styles and why it is important to have different learning modalities.   

12.5.23 Barbara Osborne, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and Matt Mitten, Marquette University, talk about what is new in sports law including antitrust issues, transgender athlete participation (both on the national and international level), and updates in colligate sports. They discuss updates on their books, Sports Law and Regulation: Cases, Materials, and Problems, Sixth Edition and Sports Law: Governance and Regulation, Fourth Edition.      

11.28.23 Katerina Lewinbuk, South Texas College of Law Houston, talks about the third edition of her course book, Connecting Ethics & Practice: A Lawyers Guide to Professional Responsibility. She also shares how she teaches her course Mindful Lawyering and the importance of teaching mindfulness to future lawyers.   

11.14.23 Alyssa DiRusso, Samford University, and Stephanie Willbanks, Vermont School of Law, discuss the upcoming fifth edition of their book, Federal Taxation of Wealth Transfers: Cases and Problems. They also share their thoughts on the future of taxation and the removal of wills and trusts from the bar exam.

11.07.23 John Browning, attorney, and Chair of the Texas Taskforce for the Responsible AI in the Law, talks about the evolution of digital evidence starting from social media to today’s generative AI. He also provides advice for lawyers and law students to enhance and protect their social media presence.

10.31.23 Amy Vaughan-Thomas, Director of Academic Success at UMass Law, shares resources and advice for first-generation and first-year law students. She also talks about the internal and external pressures of being a law student and how that affects their work.

10.24.23 Kyle McEntee talks about starting Law School Transparency and the importance of engaging with students before they begin law school. He shares details about the Law School Admissions Council and LawHub as additional resources for upcoming students.

10.17.23 Justice Brian Hoffstadt and Laurie Levenson, Loyola Law School, discuss the new scenarios included in their casebook, Evidence Law: Practice, Problems, and Policy. They also share advice on teaching Evidence and what changes have been made in this field of law. Justice Hoffstadt also talks about how technology has impacted evidence law.

10.10.23 Patricia Baia, Touro Law School, shares the details of being an Instructional Designer and how designing courses has changed over the years. She also gives advice on how to mix up lessons and how to conduct self-reflection after every class.

10.03.23 Marc Miller, University of Arizona, Chris Robertson, Boston University, and Joe Terry, Aspen Publishing discuss the journey of creating JD-Next and the importance of law schools accepting this as an accurate formative assessment. They also share current statistics on how the program boosts law school performance.

09.26.23 Michele Pistone, Villanova University, talks about founding and directing VIISTA (Villanova Interdisciplinary Immigration Studies Training for Advocates). She describes the three different modules in detail and what each certificate represents.

09.19.23 Elena Langan, Dean and Professor of Law at Touro Law School, describes the FlexTime JD Program which gives students the opportunity to attend a flexible part-time law program. She shares insights from the first graduating class and what is ahead for the program, including a Manhattan campus next Fall. Elena also gives examples of interdisciplinary opportunities the students are given and the value it provides.

09.12.23 Christine Broucek, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, discusses the edition of her textbook, eDiscovery for the Legal Professional, and why many people can benefit from reading this text. She also talks about the increased importance of project management techniques as well as the ethical considerations during the process of eDiscovery.

09.05.23 Joseph Glannon, Professor, and Andrew Perlman, Dean and Professor, both of Suffolk Law School discuss teaching Civil Procedure today, specifically personal jurisdiction and the fourth edition of their casebook, Civil Procedure. They both explain the details of the recent Mallory and Ford Company decisions and how they will be taught in class. Joseph Glannon also talks about his Glannon Guide series and Examples & Explanations as well as PracticePerfect.

08.29.23 April Dawson, Associate Dean of Technology and Innovation and Professor of Law at North Carolina Central University School of Law, talks about her new book, Artificial Intelligence and Academic Integrity, and provides a sneak peek of the chapters. She also shares the details of the new NCCU Technology Law & Policy Center and how important the center is for future lawyers.

08.22.23 Esperanza (Espy) Franco, Spanish U.S. Immigration Attorney and author of the upcoming book, Emotionally Intelligent Lawyers: How to Navigate the Psychological Implications of Becoming a Lawyer. She takes time to explain the different lawyer identities that can impact mental health and the tools she provides to help gain emotional intelligence. Espy also speaks about the importance of teaching these tools and skills in law school.

08.15.23 James Gardner, University at Buffalo, and Guy-Uriel Charles, Harvard Law School, discuss the third edition of their book, Election Law in the American Political System. They also provide insight into the challenges in U.S. democracy and how the law is mediating those challenges. There is also a conversation about how the current climate in American politics is impacting election law.

08.08.23 Robert Lawless, University of Illinois, discusses the change he has noticed both in bankruptcy and his student post-pandemic. He also shares some details on the Program on Law, Behavior and Social Science and the Consumer Bankruptcy Project. Robert is also the co-author of multiple textbooks including, Empirical Methods in Law,Secured Transactions: A System Approach, and Bankruptcy and Article 9: 2023 Statutory Supplement.

08.01.23 Jill Barton, University of Miami, and Rachel Smith, St, John’s University discuss the third edition of their book, The Handbook for the New Legal Writer, and the addition of mindfulness icons throughout the book. They also both talk about what differences they have noticed in student behavior post-pandemic as well as how they see ChatGPT fitting into their legal writing classes.

Links:

The Handbook for the New Legal Writer, Third Edition

So Ordered: The Writer's Guide for Aspiring Judges, Judicial Clerks, and Interns

07.25.23 Martin Levy and Craig Jackson, both of Thurgood Marshall School of Law, share what set their book, Constitutional Law: Cases and Materials apart from the other Constitutional Law textbooks. Martin Levy also reflects on his 50 years of teaching and shares stories about the beginning of the Thurgood Marshall School of Law. There is also a great discussion about the importance of teaching history alongside Constitutional Law.

07.18.23 President Rodney Smolla, Vermont Law, dives deeper into his journey to his current position and explains what he enjoys about leadership. He shares some details of Vermont Law’s new online JD program and the benefits he has seen so far. Recorded prior to the Supreme Court decisions, Rodney Smolla gives his option and prediction on the affirmative action ruling.

07.11.23 Ronald Wright, Wake Forest Law, touches upon multiple projects he is working on including his book Criminal Procedures: Cases, Statues, and Executive Materials and The Jury Sunshine Project which focuses on researching juries and learning the statistics of how race, gender, and age play a role in selection. He also describes his current interview projects surrounding defense attorneys and electronic discovery as well as prosecutors and resentencing units.

Links:

Criminal Procedures: Cases, Statutes, and Executive Materials, Seventh Edition

Criminal Procedures: The Police: Cases, Statutes, and Executive Materials, Seventh Edition

Criminal Procedures: Prosecution and Adjudication: Cases, Statutes, and Executive Materials, Seventh Edition

07.04.23 Mary Basick, University of California Irvine, and Tina Schindler, Western State College of Law, talk about their new book, The MBE Decoded, and what they found when analyzing previous bar exams. They also share their thoughts and predictions about the NextGen Bar Exam.

Links:

The MBE Decoded

Essay Exam Writing for the California Bar Exam, Second Edition Update

California Performance Test Workbook: Preparation for the Bar Exam, Second Edition

06.27.23 Joe Regalia, University of Nevada Las Vegas, shares why he started Write.law and the ways he has seen it implemented in classrooms. He also shares his opinion on ChatGPT, what it means for the future of legal education, and why we should feel empowered by it.

06.20.23 Leah Teague, Baylor University, discusses the professional responsibility movement, teaching leadership and the law, and her book, Fundamentals of Lawyer Leadership. She dives deeper into a particular segment of the book, the leadership of self, and how she guides students to explore their personal morals and how they interact with their professional expectations.

06.13.23 Babak Boghraty shares his journey of creating a new global supply chain for Iran in the late 1990s through legal risk management and trust building. He then describes how he turned the experience into the Organizational Compliance and Ethics concentration at Boston University. Babak also wrote a book under the same name which is now in its second edition.

06.06.23 Jonah Perlman, Georgetown Law, talks about how he started his podcast “How I Lawyer” and what are some of the overarching themes he’s seen in over 100 episodes. He and Patty Roberts also have important conversations about why and how students and young lawyers should look to build a community instead of networking.

Link:

Website

05.30.23 Brannon Denning, Cumberland School of Law, talks about the seventh edition of American Constitutional Law: Powers and Liberties which he succeeded Calvin Massey. He talks about what drew him to the casebook in the first place and what revisions he’s made. Brannon also discusses what it’s like to teach his Guns and the Law course.

Links:

American Constitutional Law: Powers and Liberties, Seventh Edition

The Glannon Guide to Constitutional Law: Powers and Liberties: Learning Constitutional Law Through Multiple-Choice Questions and Analysis, Third Edition

05.23.23 Julie Steiner, Western New England Law, talks about the progression of incorporating digital learning in the classroom and the benefits of using digital tools to teach. She also tells the origin story of PracticePerfect Torts, how she uses it in her classroom, and what results she has seen from using the tool.

Links:

PracticePerfect

Digital Learning Advisory Panel

05.16.23 Amy Schmitz, Ohio State University and Janet Martinez, Stanford University talk about multiple projects including their future book together, Divided Community Project, and Schmitz’s casebooks Resolving Disputes: Theory, Practice and Law and Arbitration: Practice, Policy and Law. They also discuss in depth the impact of technology on conflict and how it can be used to resolve disputes.

Links:

Arbitration: Practice, Policy, and Law
Resolving Disputes: Theory, Practice, and Law, Fourth Edition
Divided Community Project
Dispute System Design
Arbitration Conversations

05.09.23 Lawrence Friedman, Professor at New England Law, gives his perspective on how lawyers and law schools are adapting and changing to the new digital world, including what challenges may arise when including A.I. in the classroom. Lawrence also talks about the process of writing the third edition of his casebook, Modern Constitutional Law: Cases, Problems and Practice, and what makes the casebook different from other constitutional law books.

05.02.23 Author, speaker, lawyer, and DEI consultant Helen Wan shares the story of how she wrote her book, The Partner Track which is now a Netflix series. Helen also speaks about her personal experience as a law student and working at a law firm in New York. Helen and Patty Roberts also share their advice on what they wish someone told them while in law school.

04.25.23 Nadelle Grossman and Eric Zacks discuss the updates in the second edition of Contracts in Context: From Transaction to Litigation including the importance of professional identity. They share how vital it is to include real life experiences in the classroom and how it has benefited students not only for the rest of their law school career, but also their day-to-day life.

04.18.23 Kathy Stanchi and Bridget Crawford discuss the U.S. Feminist Judgements Project and their book, Feminist Judgments: Rewritten Opinions of the United States Supreme Court. Now a subject-based series, they share how the volumes are used in classrooms both as primary and secondary sources. Kathy Stanchi also speaks with Patty Roberts about the ninth edition of the Legal Reasoning and Legal Writing coursebook and what ChatGPT might mean for Legal Writing courses.

04.11.23 Legal Director of the ACLU in D.C. and Shikes Fellow on Civil Liberties and Civil Rights and Lecturer on Law at Harvard Law School, Scott Michelman talks about his experience at the ACLU from his start as an intern to what he is currently working on. He speaks on the story behind his casebook, Civil Rights Enforcement, as well as what has been added to the second edition.

04.04.23 Jordana Confino, Assistant Dean of Professionalism, teaches Peer Mentoring and Leadership, and Positive Lawyering at Fordham University. In our latest podcast, Jordana shares the importance of positive psychology with examples of discussions she has had with her students to demonstrate how important it is for law students and lawyers to implement it into their daily lives.

Links:

Jordana's Website
Values Discovery Guide
Fordham Law Office of Professionalism

03.28.23 The authors of Constitutional Law, Second Edition and An Introduction to Constitutional Law: 100 Supreme Court Cases Everyone Should Know, Randy E. Barnett and Josh Blackman discuss the multiple ways they have made teaching Constitutional Law approachable including their extensive scripted video series. Josh also shares the story of how he started Fantasy SCOTUS – the supreme court fantasy league.

03.21.23 Professors Ben Templin and David H. Spratt discuss the strengths and challenges for Millennial and Gen Z law students. To address the changing profile, Professors Spratt and Templin also share how they incorporate contemporary learning theory into the third edition of their book, Contracts: A Modern Coursebook.

03.14.23 Kali Murray and Rose Cuison-Villazor talk about the second edition of their book Integrating Spaces: Property Law and Race and how property law and ownership relates to social identity. They provide examples of how they expanded and sharpened the thematic materials of the first edition, including a historical analysis of immigration and property ownership as well as a more detailed chapter on reparations.

03.07.23 Marilyn Berger and Ronald Clark talk about Pretrial Advocacy: Planning, Analysis, and Strategy, 6th Edition, Trial Advocacy: Planning, Analysis, and Strategy, 5th Edition, and the new videos that correspond with both coursebooks on Casebook Connect. Marilyn Berger also touches on the Films for Justice Institute, how she became interested in creating documentaries, and the applications for visual learning.

02.28.23 The authors of Civil Procedure 11th Edition, Stephen Yeazell, Joanna Schwartz, and Maureen Carroll come together to discuss how they joined the author team, what is new in the most recent edition, and updates on Class Action and Litigation Financing. Joanna also speaks on her new book, Shielded: How the Police Became Untouchable.

02.21.23 Steve Foritano, Director of the First year Trial Practicum Program at Drake University discusses the details of the program which has been recognized as one of Bloomberg Law’s Law School Innovation Program finalists. He shares stories of not only student experiences but also his own as a Practitioner during one of these trials.

02.14.23 Provost, Graduate and Professional Division of Touro Law, Patricia E. Salkin sits with Patty Roberts to discuss her book, May It Please the Campus (Lawyers Leading Higher Education), and gives a preview of the themes and trends related to lawyers becoming Provosts and Presidents of universities. She also provides some helpful advice about transitioning into higher roles and uses her own experiences as examples.

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02.07.23 In episode 5, Gabe Teninbaum provides an overview of the Legal Innovation and Technology concentration at Suffolk Law School and how it prepares students for their future careers. He also references his book, Productizing Legal Work: Providing Legal Expertise at Scale and shares how it will guide law students and graduates looking to enter the legal technology space. Gabe and Patty also dive into ChatGPT and what it could mean for the future of legal education.

01.31.23 Colin Crawford, Dean and Professor at Golden State Law, shares his journey to becoming Dean and how he is navigating the new bar pass standard. Colin and Patty also discuss Golden Gate University's new Presidential Scholarships and how they will help students financially.

01.24.23 Alan Palmiter discusses his new book Sustainable Corporations and touches upon the future relationship between corporations and climate change, and the role shareholders have. There is also a conversation on the importance of personal integrity, collaboration, and trust within corporations.

01.17.23 Geoffrey Stone, University of Chicago, Leah Litman, University of Michigan, and Aziz Huq, University of Chicago are co-authors of the upcoming Ninth Edition of their Constitutional Law casebook with Aspen Publishing. In this episode, they discuss the important coverage in their new edition, including the Dobbs decision, and Religion Clause. They also give their opinion on the leak of the Supreme Court’s draft about overruling Roe vs. Wade and what it means.

12.31.22 Erwin Chemerinsky, Dean of Berkeley Law, and outgoing president of the Association of American Law Schools, talks about how he encourages free speech and inclusivity in his classroom, looks ahead to the 2023 AALS Conference, and reflects on his time as president.