The Hearing – A Legal Podcast

Afleveringen

• 
  EP. 188 – Book banning in the US: a legal perspective on a cultural divide (Roger Horner, Practical Law) 26.01.2026 41min

  In this episode, host Teneé Frazier and Roger Horner, a municipal law expert at Practical Law, discuss the contentious topic of book banning. Roger outlines the background and current landscape for book bans in the US, including their rise in frequency and intensity. He sheds light on the constitutional challenges, divergent state laws, and the critical role of government speech in recent rulings. Roger also shares practical advice for government attorneys dealing with book selection policies, and he highlights the forthcoming developments and decisions to watch out for.
• 
  EP. 167 – Kent Halkett (Tennessee Alliance for Legal Services) 27.01.2025 47min

  In a recent survey, 79% of legal professionals said they felt the profession had negatively affected their mental health. And over 15% had even considered suicide. These are two of the worrying statistics we learned from this episode's guest, Kent Halkett. Kent is an attorney with the Tennessee Alliance for Legal Services who has written articles about mental health in the legal community for a host of publications. Kent chats with host Teneé Frazier about his journey to becoming an advocate for improving mental health within the legal profession. Kent shares the story of his own mental health challenges, which culminated with him attempting suicide. He explains how publishing his story catapulted him, and this often-taboo subject, into the spotlight. During their conversation, Kent describes some of the warning signs of mental health issues, stresses the importance of a work-life balance, and outlines the support available for those in need. Kent also shares insights on how the problem could be addressed, such as by increasing awareness through better education – both in law schools and as part of continuous professional development. You can find out more about the ALM and Law.com Compass mental health survey of the legal profession here: https://www.law.com/americanlawyer/2024/05/17/mental-health-by-the-numbers-the-2024-survey-infographic/?slreturn=20250123165408 You can read one of Kent's articles, Mental Health in the Legal Profession: A Crisis, a Case Study and a Call to Action, here: https://www.tba.org/?pg=Articles&blAction=showEntry&blogEntry=59057
• 
  EP. 19 – Priscilla Coleman 10.12.2018 40min

  Cannibals. Terrorists. Serial killers. Movie stars. Megastars. Musicians. Meet the person who's been in court with them all. This episode's guest is courtroom artist Priscilla Coleman. She's the public's eyes in court, and she does it all from memory. Say 'howdy' to the Texan who spends more time at the Old Bailey than hardened criminals. Court can be weird and wonderful, and Priscilla's sketches capture it all. Listen in as she chats to our Kevin, while simultaneously drawing the scene. Find out more at tr.com/TheHearing
• 
  EP. 89 – Special *2021 Yearbook* Episode 20.12.2021 1u 8min

  We could try to make a witty or poignant comment about this year, but we respect you all too much for that. We all know what 2021 was – and it wasn't the antidote to 2020 we'd hoped for (oops, there's the comment). We know what is was, however – it was another smashing year for The Hearing. We introduced two wonderful new hosts – Yasmin Sheikh and Becky Annison – to join Joe Raczynski. Each bringing their own perspectives and specialist legal backgrounds. In this bumper episode, we're revisiting our favourite interviews. It's been another varied year and there was never a dull moment. But whether we were speaking to celebrity judges, lawtech innovators or examining current affairs through a legal lens, you’ll notice a common theme – fact and truth. Less common, but just as welcome, was the singing. As always, please do get in touch with any comments or questions. And please rate and subscribe if you like what we do. If any of these highlights whet your appetite for more, here’s where you’ll find the full conversations: – Ep.69, Lady Hale – Ep.71, COVID-19 vaccines: will they unite or divide us? – Ep.73, Federico Ast (Kleros) – Ep.74, Will Moy (Full Fact) – Ep.76, Laura Bates (Everyday Sexism Project) – Ep.77, The impact of AI and algorithms on the fairness of our justice systems – Ep.78, Stevie Ghiassi (Legaler) – Ep.79, Freddy McConnell – Ep.84, Andy Wishart (Agiloft) Find out more at tr.com/TheHearing
• 
  EP. 135 – Lubna Shuja (Law Society of England & Wales) 25.09.2023 42min

  In this episode, Yasmin sits down with Lubna Shuja – the outgoing President of the Law Society of England and Wales. Lubna is the first Asian, first Muslim and only the seventh female President in the Law Society's nearly 200-year history. The pair reflect on Lubna’s term as President – what she’s achieved, what her typical working days have been like (hint: long!), and why she never gets tired of talking about diversity and inclusion. They also discuss the importance of making mistakes, and what Lubna has learned by having one-on-one conversations directly with Law Society members. Find out more at tr.com/TheHearing
• 
  EP. 122 – Victoria Lewis (byrne·dean) 22.05.2023 48min

  If we were to suggest “blending your personal and professional life, to bring your whole self to work”, how would that make you feel? Perhaps that sentiment aligns perfectly with how you approach your career too. Or maybe it makes you feel like stuffing carrots in your ears to avoid yet more corporate speak. Whatever your reaction, listen up! Yasmin's next guest – Victoria Lewis, CEO of byrne·dean – is about to put you through your paces. Victoria explains to Yasmin exactly why this attitude means so much to her, and her clients, and why it makes byrne·dean such a popular place to work. Trigger warning: Victoria and Yasmin discuss child loss. Find out more at tr.com/TheHearing
• 
  EP. 16 – S Chelvan 19.11.2018 33min

  Not all heroes wear capes. Some of them wear gowns. Few guests on The Hearing could legitimately claim to be a lifesaver. But in episode 16, Kevin meets a man who is precisely that. S Chelvan stands as a reminder of why those who work in the law got into it in the first place. Uphold justice. Protect the innocent. Change lives. Personal, thought-provoking, honest and blunt, Chelvan takes Kevin through everything from his Sri Lankan roots and his homosexuality through to his activism and trouble-making, and how that makes you one of the UK's leading human rights and discrimination barristers. But what does the S stand for? Superhero perhaps. Find out more at tr.com/TheHearing
• 
  EP. 165 – Matthew Campbell (Native American Rights Fund) 16.12.2024 54min

  Native Americans are fighting for their legal rights across many important fronts in the US. In this episode, Janelle Wrigley speaks with Matthew Campbell, Deputy Director of the Native American Rights Fund, about NARF's legal and advocacy work. Matthew and Janelle's wide-ranging discussion covers issues such as voting rights, the protection of places that are sacred to tribal nations, and access to natural resources. They also discuss the sovereignty of tribal nations, their relationship with the US government, and the challenges of ensuring access to voting.
• 
  EP. 179 – Jenna Leventoff (American Civil Liberties Union) 25.08.2025 42min

  Societies are grappling with how to help keep children safe while navigating online spaces, including through legislation such as the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA) in the US. In this episode, Jenna Leventoff, Senior Policy Counsel at the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), joins host Janelle Wrigley to talk about KOSA and America’s First Amendment. Jenna and Janelle explore why free speech principles are so important in the "new town square" of the internet, and discuss the benefits and risks that young people face online. Jenna explains the ACLU's concerns with KOSA's duty of care and potential over-censorship, and advocates for alternatives centered on privacy, user controls, and digital literacy.
• 
  EP. 142 – Mirna Santiago (Girls Rule the Law) 08.01.2024 38min

  "Show up. Speak up. Woman up." This is the motto of Mirna Santiago, a lawyer, DEI expert, and nonprofit founder and CEO. Through the many roles Mirna has held during her career, which has also included law firm partner and chair of the New York State Bar Association's Committee on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Mirna epitomizes someone who walks her talk. In this episode, Jenn and Lauren chat with Mirna about her commitment to busting bias as a Black Hispanic woman who was born in another country and now exists in places where, as she puts it, you don’t typically find women in her skin. Mirna, a phenomenal storyteller and engaging presenter, also explains how her dad influenced her decision to go to law school and how she came up with her motto after watching her mom never say yes. They also chat about Mirna's pipeline nonprofit organization, Girls Rule the Law (girlsrulethelaw.org), which introduces underrepresented middle and high school girls to the legal field. If you enjoy listening to The Hearing, please follow the podcast and leave a 5-star review. This helps like-minded people find the podcast, and helps us ensure we can continue to bring you interesting guests and content.
• 
  EP. 183 – Reforming health laws for better outcomes (Mandeep Dhaliwal, United Nations Development Programme) 03.11.2025 50min

  Mandeep Dhaliwal, Director of the HIV and Health Group at the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) joins host Janelle Wrigley to discuss how legal frameworks and governance shape health outcomes worldwide. Drawing on more than 25 years at the intersection of health policy and human rights, Mandeep explains the UNDP's mission and her experiences showing that leadership and participation from affected communities must be at the center of effective public health policy. Mandeep and Janelle explore how punitive laws around HIV drive-up infections, deaths, and costs. They discuss how countries can engage in reform, such as Zimbabwe's repeal of HIV criminalization after a UNDP‑supported legal environment assessment, and they examine access‑to‑medicines barriers tied to patents and trade agreements. Mandeep suggests practical ways communities and legal professionals can advance change in this critical area.
• 
  EP. 10 – Karen Jackson 06.08.2018 34min

  Karen Jackson is an inspirational lover of problem-solving, passionate for French and a self-styled protector of the underdog. In this episode Kevin meets the founder of didlaw, one of the UK's leading disability discrimination practices. A former City trader, Karen talks candidly about the roundabout route she took into law and how a heart transplant helped guide her to a new path – setting up her own practice that's focused on challenging mental health, disability and illness discrimination. Find out more at tr.com/TheHearing
• 
  EP. 53 – Gail Gove (Reuters) 01.06.2020 25min

  We’re taking you Stateside this week as our very own legal futurist Joe Raczynski is joined by Reuters General Counsel, Gail Gove. Gail takes us behind the scenes of the case that grabbed the world's attention in 2018: the incredible story of Reuters journalists, Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo, who were imprisoned in Myanmar while investigating reports of mass murder. Gail talks to Joe about the all-encompassing nature of the work and what it's like to work with one of the most famous lawyers in the world, Amal Clooney. Starting out as a civil rights lawyer, Gail speaks of the importance of looking at legal issues through a wide-angled, global lens, the minefield of media laws around the world and the importance of having robust journalism. We’d like to hear your comments and suggestions. Follow us on Twitter @HearingPodcast If you’re interested in finding out more about how US law departments are navigating the new business landscape and adapting to the needs of 2020, download our complimentary report at tr.com/TheHearing.
• 
  EP. 03 – Lord Michael Howard 15.06.2018 33min

  In this episode Kevin is joined by Lord Michael Howard of Lympne. Although best known for his time as a Government Minister and a former leader of the Conservative Party, Michael's life before Westminster involved a distinguished career at the Bar. As a vocal supporter of the 'Leave Means Leave' campaign, Michael's views on Brexit are crystal-clear, but we also hear he has some personal regret over one of his most controversial ministerial decisions. Find out more at tr.com/TheHearing
• 
  EP. 05 – Sir Rupert Jackson 29.06.2018 29min

  In this episode Kevin is joined by Sir Rupert Jackson – barrister, former Lord Justice of Appeal and legal reformer. As well as his infamous reform of civil litigation costs, Rupert has authored some of the industry's leading texts during his 50-year career. Now, back at the Bar, he talks through the fresh challenges facing lawyers, and discusses his new role as a justice in the AIFC Court and International Arbitration Centre in Kazakhstan. Find out more at tr.com/TheHearing
• 
  EP. 78 – Stevie Ghiassi (Legaler) 07.06.2021 52min

  Question: What do the Iranian national football team, NFTs, Hotel Rwanda and Andy Murray have in common? Answer: Stevie Ghiassi, Co-founder of Legaler and Legaler Aid. And Joe’s guest this week! In this episode, Stevie chats to Joe about his unlikely journey from running a chain of souvenir shops to becoming a legal tech entrepreneur. He also talks about the important work that Legaler Aid is doing, and ways in which legal tech and blockchain have helped them pivot after Covid took away traditional fundraising streams. Yet again we’re seeing innovative ways that cryptocurrency and blockchain are being used, and how they offer real opportunities for the legal industry. Find out more at tr.com/TheHearing
• 
  EP. 166 – Derek Walker (Future Generations Commissioner) 13.01.2025 27min

  We are leaving future generations to face more challenges than ever. Yet it can be incredibly difficult for governments to act for the long term when so many of their incentives encourage short-term thinking. In this episode, host Becky Annison chats with Derek Walker, the Future Generations Commissioner for Wales, about how Wales is attempting to solve this problem. Derek explains why Wales passed the Well-being of Future Generations Act, how this pioneering legislation obliges the Welsh government to act for the long term, and whether other nations can follow this example.
• 
  EP. 59 – David Brown (TLDEF) 24.08.2020 35min

  In this episode Joe is joined by David Brown, Legal Director of the Transgender Legal Defense and Education Fund (TLDEF). TLDEF is a transgender-led organisation fighting for transgender rights through litigation and other legal avenues. Working with numerous law firms, David and his team bring lawsuits to demonstrate how statutes are unequal and discriminatory. David tells Joe how his family inspired him to want to fight injustice. And he explains how TLDEF strategically selects cases with the ultimate aim of moving the law and the equality agenda forward, while also ensuring they authentically represent transgender people's lives. David talks about the importance of finding commonalities when discussing transgender people and the discrimination they face. Like anyone, transgender people want a nice place to live, a steady job and access to healthcare. But in many parts of the world, such fundamentals of life are often denied. David and Joe also discuss intersectionality, and how transgender people of colour are even more likely to face discrimination due to greater distrust and fear. Find out more at tr.com/TheHearing
• 
  EP. 150 – Lord Tim Clement-Jones CBE 06.05.2024 47min

  Governments around the world are grappling with how to regulate AI on issues ranging from copyright protections to ethical standards, competition rules and beyond.  In this episode, host Becky Annison explores AI governance issues with Lord Tim Clement-Jones CBE, member of the UK House of Lords and former chair of its Artificial Intelligence Select Committee. The pair discuss the challenges of balancing enthusiasm for a new technology with the need to manage its risks. They also chat about areas where AI developers need to be more transparent regarding the construction of their models, and global efforts to set commonly accepted governance standards for AI. Find out more about The Hearing and other Thomson Reuters podcasts at tr.com/thehearing
• 
  EP. 126 – Florence Brocklesby (Bellevue Law) 10.07.2023 41min

  TWLL TAKEOVER – Many lawyers love the challenge of the job but reach a point where the long hours of law firm life become untenable – often, after starting families. But what’s the solution? In our second episode of the TWLL Takeover, host Janelle Wrigley chats with Florence Brocklesby, who solved that problem with creativity and courage in starting her law firm Bellevue Law. Florence has shown that top-tier legal work can flourish within a flexible working environment that truly supports working parents. How did she do it? Can Big Law follow that model? Listen and find out! You can learn more about TWLL (Transforming Women's Leadership in the Law) here: https://legalsolutions.thomsonreuters.co.uk/blog/transforming-womens-leadership-law/