Burns White: Inside the Law Podcast

Built on Trust: How Claims Professionals & Defense Counsel Collaborate for Long-Term Success with Courtney Barbacane & Kathleen Cetola

In this episode, we’re joined by Kathleen Cetola, Director of Claims at US Acute Care Solutions, and Burns White attorney, Courtney Barbacane [https://burnswhite.com/attorney/courtney-c-barbacane/], to explore the partnerships behind successful outcomes and how years of trust, collaboration, and shared experience influence results. Our team dives into the evolving relationship between defense counsel and claims representatives, exploring how long-standing client connections shape strategy, communication, and results. From navigating complex claims to aligning on litigation goals, we discuss what it really means to work with clients, not just for them. You will hear how consistency, institutional knowledge, and mutual accountability create a more efficient and effective defense approach, and why strong professional relationships remain one of the most valuable assets in today’s legal landscape. Whether you are a claims professional, attorney, or part of a broader risk management team, this conversation offers insight into the collaborative dynamics that make a difference when it matters most. Our host, Ahsan Jafry [https://burnswhite.com/attorney/ahsan-a-jafry/], is a Member in the firm’s New Jersey office. His practice consists of handling a wide range of complex litigation matters, including defending medical professionals, healthcare providers, and healthcare facilities in medical malpractice matters.  If you have any questions, please contact Ahsan Jafry at podcast@burnswhite.com [podcast@burnswhite.com]. To learn more about our attorneys and practices, visit burnswhite.com [https://burnswhite.com/]. Burns White is a leading litigation law firm providing comprehensive litigation and corporate counsel services to clients from a broad spectrum of industries nationwide.  Harnessing the collective skill of more than 160 attorneys, the law firm operates fourteen locations in Delaware, Florida, Ohio, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia.  Disclaimer:  The information contained in this podcast is considered an outline and is intended to be supplemented by an attorney.  The information is not legal advice and should not be considered as such.

Healing & Advocating: Transitioning from Nursing to Law with Dave McGeady

In this episode, Ashan sits down with attorney David McGeady [https://burnswhite.com/attorney/david-m-mcgeady/], who made a remarkable career transition from working as a registered nurse to becoming a member of the firm’s healthcare group. Dave shares his journey of navigating this second career, the motivations behind his move, and how his clinical experience informs his work in healthcare law. Listeners will gain insights into the unique challenges and opportunities of switching careers, the skills that transfer across professions, and the ways his nursing background enhances his perspective as an attorney. This inspiring conversation highlights resilience, adaptability, and the power of following your passion, no matter where it leads. Our host, Ahsan Jafry [https://burnswhite.com/attorney/ahsan-a-jafry/], is a Member in the firm’s New Jersey office. His practice consists of handling a wide range of complex litigation matters, including defending medical professionals, healthcare providers, and healthcare facilities in medical malpractice matters.  If you have any questions, please contact Ahsan Jafry at podcast@burnswhite.com [podcast@burnswhite.com]. To learn more about our attorneys and practices, visit burnswhite.com [https://burnswhite.com/]. Burns White is a leading litigation law firm providing comprehensive litigation and corporate counsel services to clients from a broad spectrum of industries nationwide.  Harnessing the collective skill of more than 160 attorneys, the law firm operates fourteen locations in Delaware, Florida, Ohio, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia.  Disclaimer:  The information contained in this podcast is considered an outline and is intended to be supplemented by an attorney.  The information is not legal advice and should not be considered as such.

Balancing Act: Success in Law & Life with Anne Frankel

In this episode, Ahsan sits down with member Anne Frankel [https://burnswhite.com/attorney/anne-schmidt-frankel/], who has worked her way through the ranks at the firm, building a successful legal career while navigating the demands of home life. Anne shares candid insights on the challenges and triumphs of balancing professional growth with personal responsibilities, offering practical advice on time management, prioritization, and resilience. From early career lessons to strategies for thriving in leadership roles, this conversation highlights the dedication, determination, and adaptability required to succeed both inside and outside the office. Listeners will come away inspired by her journey and equipped with ideas for managing their own paths to success. Our host, Ahsan Jafry [https://burnswhite.com/attorney/ahsan-a-jafry/], is a Member in the firm’s New Jersey office. His practice consists of handling a wide range of complex litigation matters, including defending medical professionals, healthcare providers, and healthcare facilities in medical malpractice matters.  If you have any questions, please contact Ahsan Jafry at podcast@burnswhite.com [podcast@burnswhite.com]. To learn more about our attorneys and practices, visit burnswhite.com [https://burnswhite.com/]. Burns White is a leading litigation law firm providing comprehensive litigation and corporate counsel services to clients from a broad spectrum of industries nationwide.  Harnessing the collective skill of more than 160 attorneys, the law firm operates fourteen locations in Delaware, Florida, Ohio, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia.  Disclaimer:  The information contained in this podcast is considered an outline and is intended to be supplemented by an attorney.  The information is not legal advice and should not be considered as such.

Building a Career from Within: The Path to Partnership with Joe Romano

In this episode, Ahsan sits down with Joe Romano [https://burnswhite.com/attorney/joseph-c-romano/], a member at Burns White, whose career journey is a testament to dedication, consistency, and growth from within. Starting his career in the firm’s Workers’ Compensation Group, he built a reputation for exceptional advocacy, practical problem-solving, and unwavering commitment to clients. Over the years, Joe has climbed the ranks within the firm, taking on new challenges, mentoring others, and helping shape the direction of the practice. Now an equity member, he reflects on the lessons learned, the value of long-term career development, and what it means to grow with a firm that values its people and its clients. Our host, Ahsan Jafry [https://burnswhite.com/attorney/ahsan-a-jafry/], is a Member in the firm’s New Jersey office. His practice consists of handling a wide range of complex litigation matters, including defending medical professionals, healthcare providers, and healthcare facilities in medical malpractice matters.  If you have any questions, please contact Ahsan Jafry at podcast@burnswhite.com [podcast@burnswhite.com]. To learn more about our attorneys and practices, visit burnswhite.com [https://burnswhite.com/]. Burns White is a leading litigation law firm providing comprehensive litigation and corporate counsel services to clients from a broad spectrum of industries nationwide.  Harnessing the collective skill of more than 160 attorneys, the law firm operates fourteen locations in Delaware, Florida, Ohio, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia.  Disclaimer:  The information contained in this podcast is considered an outline and is intended to be supplemented by an attorney.  The information is not legal advice and should not be considered as such.

Building from the Ground Up: How Vision & Leadership Shape a Firm’s Future with Lyle Washowich

In this episode, we talk with Lyle Washowich [https://burnswhite.com/attorney/lyle-d-washowich/], whose journey at Burns White exemplifies what it means to build something lasting. Joining the firm without a client base, he developed a litigation group from the ground up. Through focus, persistence, and a commitment to collaboration, Lyle transformed that challenge into a thriving practice area that now supports a large team of attorneys and serves clients across multiple industries. Today, as the firm’s Chief Operating Officer, Western Region, and a member of its Executive Committee, he reflects on the lessons learned along the way, discussing how taking calculated risks leads to cultivating leadership and empowering others to grow. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about innovation, teamwork, and the power of starting with a clear vision. Our host, Ahsan Jafry [https://burnswhite.com/attorney/ahsan-a-jafry/], is a Member in the firm’s New Jersey office. His practice consists of handling a wide range of complex litigation matters, including defending medical professionals, healthcare providers, and healthcare facilities in medical malpractice matters.  If you have any questions, please contact Ahsan Jafry at podcast@burnswhite.com [podcast@burnswhite.com]. To learn more about our attorneys and practices, visit burnswhite.com [https://burnswhite.com/]. Burns White is a leading litigation law firm providing comprehensive litigation and corporate counsel services to clients from a broad spectrum of industries nationwide.  Harnessing the collective skill of more than 160 attorneys, the law firm operates fourteen locations in Delaware, Florida, Ohio, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia.  Disclaimer:  The information contained in this podcast is considered an outline and is intended to be supplemented by an attorney.  The information is not legal advice and should not be considered as such.