Mike Watson, first joining TLC in 2019, discusses the critical importance of building deep connections with clients in legal practice. In this episode, he emphasizes the necessity of comprehensive communication—knowing the worst and best scenarios—ensuring there are no surprises in court. Mike shares insights on the meticulous process of discoverin…

Join Mike Smith, a 2019 TLC Graduate and recent addition to the faculty in 2023, as he unpacks the lessons from a recent workshop on a medical malpractice case. In this episode, Mike emphasizes the critical importance of forging connections—not just between attorneys and their clients but also between the jury and the client's story. He shares a po…

Carlos Concepcion, a law professor in Puerto Rico, dives deep into an innovative exercise for mastering closing arguments. He discusses a compelling piece of video evidence showing an encounter between a man and a woman, which is rich with facts supporting arguments from both sides. The exercise involves pausing the video to identify which facts bo…

Join Ron Estefan, a dedicated TLC graduate and faculty member since 2005, as he shares valuable insights from the latest TLC events. Ron discusses the recent gatherings in Houston, and the challenges and experiences from the latest event in Las Vegas, New Mexico, including unexpected weather issues. He emphasizes the significance of TLC's home base…

In this revealing episode, Tim Semmerling, a participant at the 2010 Defense of the Damned event, discusses his latest book, 'My Enemy, My Defender.' Tim shares his extraordinary experiences at the 9/11 War Court, where he defended clients under the most challenging conditions, exploring themes of morality, betrayal, and the human side of legal bat…

John Sloan, President of the Trial Lawyers College, recounts his recent victory in a Taos County trial in New Mexico, where he secured a $15 million verdict. In this episode, John shares the compelling narrative he presented to the jury that led to this significant win. Register for a TLC event! https://triallawyerscollege.org/trial-skills-courses#…

Mike Smith, Mike Watson, and Minerva Steele join us to celebrate and share their recent $5.25 million verdict. They honed their strategy for this case at a recent Trial Lawyers College event in Tulsa, where they collaboratively workshopped the details and refined their approach. Register for a TLC event! https://triallawyerscollege.org/trial-skills…

Lydia Hanson, fresh from her inaugural experience at a Trial Lawyers College event, shares how the encounter profoundly transformed both her legal practice and personal life. Lydia delves into the unique aspects of the event, from sharing a room with a fellow attendee to engaging deeply in psychodrama techniques, and participating in intensive, top…

In this enlightening episode, we welcome Austin Kaplan, a dedicated employment and civil rights attorney based in Austin, TX, and a long-time listener, first-time caller to our podcast. Austin discusses his work spanning breach of contract, overtime violations, and civil rights cases. He shares his journey of learning and gathering insights from th…

Join us as Hilary Hammell, a dedicated plaintiff-side employment lawyer and two-time attendee of the Trial Skills Foundation, shares her compelling journey into employment law. Starting with her early experiences working alongside laborers in Yakima, Washington, Hilary delves into the profound impact of advocating for workers' rights. She explores …

Michael Bristow recounts his recent journey at a Trial Lawyers College event in Tulsa, OK, illuminating the profound impact of storytelling through music and sound. He reflects on the emotional resonance and universal connection these elements foster, underscoring their ability to unite us all. Register for a TLC event! https://triallawyerscollege.…

Dustin Collier, a recent participant in a Trial Skills event, shares insights from his inaugural experience at the Trial Lawyers College, contrasting it with previous Continuing Legal Education (CLE) events he’s attended. He delves into the distinctive focus on connection, storytelling, and the emphasis on humanity that sets TLC’s events and course…

Brian McCallister returns to go over some of the methods he used for a recent trial victory. Brian describes, in vivid detail, his voir dire tactics as well as a video he recorded to share his client’s daily routine with jury members.

Recent TLC attendee, Kyra Blankenship, describes her experience at the most recent Trial Lawyers College event Trial Skills Foundation in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Kyra details what it’s like to participate in psychodrama for the first time and how big of a role discovering the story is to represent someone and tell their story.…

Recent TLC graduate from the 2022, Savannah Rand, details a recent trial experience and how TLC methods helped open up the case before the trial and inside the courtroom. Savannah explains how effective and familiar vocabulary helped connect the jurors to the case and ultimately shaped their verdict.…

Brian McCallister, TLC graduate from the class of 1995, details his recent solo trial case and his experience discovering the story and loving his client. Brian explains the peaks and valleys that come with trying a case solo; his first since 1999. “Even an old man can get a $1 million + verdict” - Rafe Foreman.…

2011 TLC graduate and faculty member since 2019, Carson Runge, discusses burnout and frequent paranoia with opposing council after long periods of practicing law. Carson explains how fighting insurance companies and changes with courtroom procedures since COVID have made the last 4 years some of the most difficult of his life. Further, Carson elabo…

2013 TLC graduate and TLC staff member since 2015, Jacqui Ford, joins Rafe Foreman to reminisce about the recent “Taste of TLC” in Tulsa, OK. Jacqui tells us about her recent experiences in regard to stressfulness, forgiveness, and grace.

2019 TLC graduate, Sammy Duncan, talks to us about a recent trial win regarding a child victim. Sammy describes creativity in the court room and the ups and downs that comes with judges decisions regarding motion in limine.

TLC President John Sloan talks about the current state and future endeavors of the Trial Lawyers College. John touches on everything from our new Executive Director, Becky Barlow, messaging to lawyers curious about registering for an event, and the possibility of a new TLC home base.

1994 graduate and board member from the beginning of the Trial Lawyers College, Cyndy Short, explains the importance and reasons for TLC having a Women’s Regional Seminar. Cyndy details the experiences from last year’s seminar while highlighting some of the staff included in this years Women’s Regional Seminar at Scarritt Bennett in Nashville, TN o…

Welcome to the TLC Podcast Zulfikar Wafai, Rafe Foreman’s first intern in 2011 and public defender in Golden, Colorado. Zulfikar discusses his firm stances on work life balance and how being the best version of himself, personally and professionally, creates the environment to thrive.

Introducing Becky Barlow, graduate of Washburn University in Topeka, Kansas, as she takes on the mantle of Executive Director of the Trial Lawyers College. Listen as Rafe extends a welcome from the TLC tribe to Becky as we hear about her law career journey.

Trial Lawyer and Law Professor at American International Law School in Puerto Rico, Carlos Concepcion, details his experience as host for the recent Trial Lawyers College case consult in Puerto Rico. Carlos goes deep into the processes starting at the warm up, all the way to identifying the villain.

2017 graduate and faculty member, Jason Sosa, describes his recent transition from criminal defense to more civil trial work. Jason elaborates on how supportive and giving the Trial Lawyers College tribe is; also, a recent case consult purchased through TLC fundraising.

2023 TLC graduate Matthew Sahag from Des Moines, Iowa, shares his experience with a recent case consult in Puerto Rico purchased through TLC fundraising. Matthew details his journey that lead to the Trial Lawyers College and how the methods he’s learned there have shaped his practice.

Matt Sahag meets with Rafe Foreman, Paula Estefan, Ron Estefan, and Susan Hutchison in Puerto Rico for a TLC auctioned case consult. Carlos Conception hosted the group where they discussed the importance and impact of digging into the story and connections about Matt's case. Listen as the group performing the consult breaks down the process and the…

TLC Podcast host, Rafe Foreman, gives an invitation regarding podcast guest appearances, TLC board membership and permanent TLC location importance. Rafe offers information and guidance regarding the improvement of the health of the Trial Lawyers College.

2000.2 TLC graduate, Bret Merkle, talks to us about being real and connecting with emotions that motivate behavior. Bret goes over his story of finding purpose in focusing on others and finding joy with the goal of staying there.

Brecken Wagner, 2016 TLC graduate, expounds on the criminal law system in Oklahoma and its tribal courts. Brecken explains the recent Supreme Court decision that has created new tribal courts, starting proceedings, and creating laws for the first time.

Benjamin Bunn joins us to discuss hate and anger and the motivations and reactions we have when we encounter them. Listen as Ben takes us through some of the feelings and emotions we go through as we experience situations charged with hate and anger in this episode of the TLC podcast.

2015 TLC graduate Gina Downes details her experiences being introduced to TLC Methods and her early presumptions around what a lawyer should be. Gina tells us about the preparation and skills that helped her enter the profession straight out of college with confidence and experience from TLC.

2005 TLC graduate, Andy Rubenstein, talks about his experiences as a teacher and student at previous TLC events. Andy discusses the benefits and reasons behind his self care and wellness focus that keeps him energized and fighting for clients. “Stay curious”.

Dirk Weeks, and his company, help develop strategies and recommend plans for plaintiff’s lawyers for clients in settlements. Hear how Dirk helps clients get the most out of settlements with structured annuities using tax conscious tactics.

2015 Graduate, Render Freeman, brings us his recent experience with psychodrama training in New York. Render also details his current work with counselors and why trial lawyers should be in regular therapy.

Trey Jones of Post, TX, experienced an oilfield accident in 1997 and describes the resulting medical issues that followed. Hear Trey’s journey as he experienced amnesia, embarrassment, and recovery from his traumatic brain injury over 26 years ago.

Assemble! TLC graduates Mike Smith, Mike Watson, and Ron Estefan join Rafe Foreman in Lubbock, TX for a case consult auctioned at a recent TLC event. Hear the benefits and techniques they used in front of live jurors to hone their statements and discover the story that motivates them.

Recent TLC graduate, Andrew Pickett, describes his early experiences with TLC, psychodrama, and the hurdles of starting his own firm while detailing his last few trials. Andrew explains the power of being his authentic self and the genuine concern of human life in the court room.

Grace Reed discusses her first legal jobs and the differences between big law firm jobs and small clerking jobs, like her current internship. Listen as Grace describes her unique experiences and the dynamics of a TLC influenced firm.

2023 TLC Graduate, Lauren Checki, details her recent experience at the 3 Week Course and how those experiences have impacted and shaped her practice. Lauren then details the work her firm does with business and home owners to sue insurance companies.

TLC 3 Week Course attendee and first time New Mexico visitor, Mario Hankerson, discusses his hesitancy and discovery of TLC methods at his first TLC event. Listen as Mario details his first interactions with "String of Pearls" and psychodrama.

From Montezuma's Castle during the 3 Week Course, Parrish Collins joins Rafe Foreman to discuss his TLC experience from last year. Parrish details his recent efforts and focus on medical negligence in the prison and jail system in New Mexico under the New Mexico Civil Rights Act.

TLC 3 week course attendees at Montezuma's Catle Laura Schultes, Sarah Mather, Colleen Mullen, Maria Bribriesco, Linda Tran, Defne Ozgediz, and Ashley Carpenter discuss the current legal environment from their perspectives.

TLC faculty member, Andy Vickery, shares a war story regarding a recent trial focused around effective scene setting and closing arguments. Andy takes time to dive back into a scene regarding words of love a elderly woman shared with her late husband.

First time TLC attendee, Joe Leventis, discusses his first impressions of the 3 Week Course in Montezuma's Castle in New Mexico. Joe explains how TLC methods has begun to shape his practice and his life after just 2 weeks into the 3 Week Course.

Current TLC participant, Todd Hollis, details his introduction to TLC and his first impressions of TLC methods and curriculum from the most recent 3 week course in Montezuma Castle. Listen as Todd and Rafe dive into their first TLC experiences and the powerful tribe of lawyers the college contains.

Jacob Vigil, 2001 TLC faculty graduate, discovered Montezuma Castle and the United World College decades ago. During a clandestine phone call, he happened to be driving in that exact location when he answered the call and suggested Montezuma Castle as the location for the Trail Lawyers College 3 Week program. The rest is history and the Trial Lawye…

Angelica Cogliano, 2019 Trial Lawyers College graduate, describes the struggle of connecting with the community in the areas where her voir dire panels are pulled from and making them her tribe. Listen as Angelica details the strategies she implements when dealing with the implementation of the criminal justice system at the southern border of Texa…

The Who We Are Project founder, Jeffery Robinson, describes the history of our country regarding anti-black racism. Jeffery elaborates on the details behind what makes our country the way it is today.

TLC graduate, Chris Stoy, discusses a recent trial that included a deposition with Rafe Foreman. Listen as Chris explains how he and Rafe’s use of TLC methods in this trial resulted in a victory after a zero offer settlement before trial.