209. Dancing Through Leadership: Public Service, Purpose, and Legacy with Elaine Fitch

209. Dancing Through Leadership: Public Service, Purpose, and Legacy with Elaine Fitch

In Episode 209 of The Practice Podcast, Jeff Bast and Brett Amron welcome Elaine Fitch [https://kcnfdc.com/attorneys/elaine-fitch/], Managing Partner of Kalijarvi, Chuzi, Newman & Fitch [https://kcnfdc.com/] (KCNF), for a conversation about purpose-driven lawyering, workplace civil rights, firm leadership, and the importance of building something that lasts.  Elaine shares her journey from studying women's rights and social justice to becoming one of the nation's leading advocates for federal employees and workplace civil rights. Her career has been defined by a commitment to public service, helping employees navigate discrimination, retaliation, whistleblower claims, and security clearance matters.  The discussion explores the firm's work representing federal employees impacted by recent government workforce reductions and challenges facing public servants whose careers have been disrupted by changing political priorities. Elaine offers a firsthand perspective on the human impact behind the headlines and the ongoing efforts to protect employee rights.  The conversation also turns to law firm leadership, succession planning, and the responsibility firm leaders have to prepare the next generation.  Elaine shares lessons learned from leading a majority women-owned firm with a 50-year legacy and discusses the importance of mentorship, culture, and thoughtful transition planning.  Throughout the episode, Elaine emphasizes the value of following your passion, serving your community, and building meaningful relationships—both in the practice of law and in life.  Key Topics: * Advocating for federal employees and workplace civil rights  * The impact of government workforce reductions  * Public service and employee protections  * Law firm leadership and succession planning  * Building a purpose-driven legal career  * The power of mentorship and community involvement  * Business development through authentic relationships  🎧 Tune in for an inspiring conversation about leadership, advocacy, and creating a lasting impact—both inside and outside the courtroom.  Streaming on  YouTube, [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJ9ViLUMRpuHPKqAiEDyttQ] Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/4YJuxSpSzdeWD5PsN6bend], Amazon Music [https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/29f6ed52-2cb5-442c-a795-290f9350f692/THE-PRACTICE-PODCAST?referer=https%3A%2F%2Fmusic.amazon.com%2Fpodcasts%2F29f6ed52-2cb5-442c-a795-290f9350f692%2FTHE-PRACTICE-PODCAST], and Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-practice-podcast/id1566884697?itsct=podcast_box_link&itscg=30200]. We are also in the top ten percent of listened-to podcasts globally [https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/the-practice-podcast-bast-amron-sq4n7KMLRi9/].

208. Beyond the Courtroom: Navigating Divorce, Relationships, and Difficult Conversations with Jacqueline Newman

In Episode 208 of The Practice Podcast, Jeff Bast [https://www.bastamron.com/our-team/jeffrey-p-bast/] and Brett Amron [https://www.bastamron.com/our-team/brett-m-amron/] sit down with matrimonial attorney  Jacqueline Newman [https://www.berkbot.com/attorneys/jacqueline-newman/], Managing Partner of Berkman Bottger Newman & Schein, LLP [https://www.berkbot.com/], to discuss divorce, relationships, parenting, and the power of communication.  Jacqueline shares how she knew from an early age that family law was her calling and reflects on a career dedicated to helping individuals and families navigate some of life's most challenging transitions. From high-net-worth divorces and custody matters to prenuptial agreements and mediation, she offers practical insight into the emotional and financial realities of divorce.  The conversation explores why many prospective clients are encouraged to pause before filing for divorce, how parents can better protect their children during the process, and why effective communication is often the key to healthier relationships. Jacqueline also challenges common misconceptions about prenuptial agreements, explaining how they can foster transparency and strengthen marriages before problems arise.  The episode concludes with a discussion on law firm leadership, recruiting, and building a workplace culture that attracts and retains top talent.  Key Topics: * The realities of divorce and family law  * Protecting children during family transitions  * The importance of communication in relationships  * Why some clients are advised not to divorce—yet  * The value of prenuptial agreements  * Law firm culture, leadership, and recruiting Tune in for an insightful conversation about relationships, resilience, and helping people move forward through life's most difficult transitions.  Streaming on  YouTube, [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJ9ViLUMRpuHPKqAiEDyttQ] Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/4YJuxSpSzdeWD5PsN6bend], Amazon Music [https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/29f6ed52-2cb5-442c-a795-290f9350f692/THE-PRACTICE-PODCAST?referer=https%3A%2F%2Fmusic.amazon.com%2Fpodcasts%2F29f6ed52-2cb5-442c-a795-290f9350f692%2FTHE-PRACTICE-PODCAST], and Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-practice-podcast/id1566884697?itsct=podcast_box_link&itscg=30200]. We are also in the top ten percent of listened-to podcasts globally [https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/the-practice-podcast-bast-amron-sq4n7KMLRi9/].

207: Legend Series – Leadership, Litigation, And Longevity with Kendall Coffey

In this Legend Series installment of The Practice Podcast, Jeffrey P. Bast and Brett M. Amron sit down with Kendall Coffey [https://coffeyburlington.com/team/kendall-coffey/], one of South Florida’s most respected trial lawyers and a former U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Florida. This conversation goes beyond a traditional career retrospective. It is a candid, experience-driven discussion on what actually builds a lasting legal career: adaptability, trial experience, discipline, and a relentless commitment to doing the work the right way. From an unexpected pivot away from journalism to leading one of the nation’s most prominent U.S. Attorney’s Offices, Coffey shares the inflection points that shaped his career and the practical lessons that continue to apply in today’s legal market. Key Takeaways * Careers are built through pivots, not straight lines Early setbacks often create better long-term positioning if you stay in the game. * Your environment matters early The people you work with will shape your trajectory more than the title on your door. * Trial experience is a differentiator For litigators, hands-on courtroom experience remains one of the most valuable career accelerators. * Public service sharpens perspective Time in the U.S. Attorney’s Office provides a broader understanding of the law, government power, and decision-making that translates directly into private practice. * Reputation drives business Do great work consistently. Business development follows performance. * Relentlessness wins—when applied correctly Following through and owning outcomes is a competitive advantage, but knowing limits matters. * Integrity is non-negotiable There is no margin for error. One misstep can define a career. Topics Covered * From journalism ambitions to law school at the University of Florida * Early career and training at Greenberg Traurig * Federal appellate clerkship experience and its impact * The process and realities of becoming U.S. Attorney * Leadership inside the Department of Justice * Transitioning from public service back to private practice * Founding and growing Coffey Burlington * Business development and long-term career strategy Quote Worth Noting “The best thing you can do for your career is do a great job on your cases. Everything else follows from that.” About the Guest Kendall Coffey is a founding partner of Coffey Burlington [https://coffeyburlington.com/] and a nationally recognized trial lawyer focusing on high-stakes litigation, white collar defense, and complex commercial disputes. He previously served as U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Florida and has built a career defined by leadership, courtroom excellence, and sustained impact in the legal community. Bottom Line Enduring legal careers are not built on shortcuts. They are built on experience, discipline, relationships, and a consistent commitment to excellence over time. Streaming on  YouTube, [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJ9ViLUMRpuHPKqAiEDyttQ] Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/4YJuxSpSzdeWD5PsN6bend], Amazon Music [https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/29f6ed52-2cb5-442c-a795-290f9350f692/THE-PRACTICE-PODCAST?referer=https%3A%2F%2Fmusic.amazon.com%2Fpodcasts%2F29f6ed52-2cb5-442c-a795-290f9350f692%2FTHE-PRACTICE-PODCAST], and Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-practice-podcast/id1566884697?itsct=podcast_box_link&itscg=30200]. We are also in the top ten percent of listened-to podcasts globally [https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/the-practice-podcast-bast-amron-sq4n7KMLRi9/].

206. From Flute Performance To High-Stakes Litigation With Katie Tonkinson

In this episode of The Practice Podcast, Katie Tonkinson [https://www.bastamron.com/our-team/katie-tonkinson/] joins Jeff Bast [https://www.bastamron.com/our-team/jeffrey-p-bast/] and Brett Amron [https://www.bastamron.com/our-team/brett-m-amron/] to discuss her path from music performance to litigation, what law school doesn’t teach you, and why practicing law is ultimately a people business. She shares practical insights on building a legal career, the importance of discipline and communication, and how creative outlets like writing and music continue to shape her approach to the law. What You’ll Hear * How a music background translates to legal practice  * The importance of networking and real-world exposure  * Why communication skills can make or break young lawyers  * What surprised her most about practicing law  Bottom Line Strong lawyers are not just technically sound—they understand people, communicate clearly, and stay disciplined over time. Streaming on  YouTube, [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJ9ViLUMRpuHPKqAiEDyttQ] Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/4YJuxSpSzdeWD5PsN6bend], Amazon Music [https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/29f6ed52-2cb5-442c-a795-290f9350f692/THE-PRACTICE-PODCAST?referer=https%3A%2F%2Fmusic.amazon.com%2Fpodcasts%2F29f6ed52-2cb5-442c-a795-290f9350f692%2FTHE-PRACTICE-PODCAST], and Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-practice-podcast/id1566884697?itsct=podcast_box_link&itscg=30200]. We are also in the top ten percent of listened-to podcasts globally [https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/the-practice-podcast-bast-amron-sq4n7KMLRi9/].

205. Legend Series: The Long Game Of Building A Legal Legacy — John Kozyak

In this Legend Series episode of The Practice Podcast, Brett Amron and Jeff Bast sit down with John Kozyak [https://kttlaw.com/team/john-w-kozyak/], co-founder of Kozyak Tropin & Throckmorton [https://kttlaw.com/]. Known nationally as a bet-the-company litigator and restructuring lawyer, Kozyak reflects on a career shaped by risk, mentorship, and an unwavering willingness to create opportunity where none existed. From knocking on office doors in downtown Miami in the 1970s to building one of the most respected litigation and bankruptcy firms in the country, Kozyak’s story is a masterclass in persistence, leadership, and purpose.  Key Takeaways from the Conversation Starting with Nothing but Initiative Kozyak’s entry into the legal profession was anything but traditional. As a law student, he flew to Miami with a stack of resumes and literally knocked on law firm doors looking for work. That initiative landed him a summer position that ultimately shaped his entire career.  His approach was simple but powerful: * Show up. * Ask directly for opportunities. * Make it difficult for people to say no. That willingness to act created momentum long before formal recruiting processes existed. The Leap to Entrepreneurship In 1982, Kozyak and two partners took the risk of starting their own firm during a period of economic uncertainty and high interest rates. At the time: * He had a young family. * Mortgage rates were above 14%. * The new firm had only three lawyers and limited resources. Despite the risks, the firm quickly gained traction through strong litigation work and strategic bankruptcy matters. One early case from Citibank helped establish the firm’s reputation in restructuring and insolvency work.  Seizing Opportunity in Bankruptcy Law Kozyak positioned himself early in bankruptcy and restructuring law by attending a specialized program shortly after the Bankruptcy Code was enacted in 1979. That decision gave him: * Early exposure to a developing practice area * Access to national legal networks * A chance to build credibility among leading practitioners It was a calculated move that helped define his career trajectory. Mentorship as a Professional Responsibility Beyond litigation success, Kozyak’s legacy includes a deep commitment to mentorship and diversity in the legal profession. He co-founded the Kozyak Minority Mentoring Foundation, which has connected thousands of minority students with judges and lawyers across South Florida.  The goal was simple:  Create access to relationships and opportunities that many aspiring lawyers would not otherwise have. Many alumni of the program have gone on to become judges, partners, and leaders in the profession. Leadership Lessons from Decades in Practice Throughout the conversation, several consistent leadership themes emerge: Create your own opportunities. Kozyak built his career by actively pursuing relationships and openings others overlooked. Mentorship multiplies impact. Helping others succeed ultimately strengthens the entire profession. Take calculated risks. Launching a firm during uncertain economic times required confidence and long-term vision. Show up with purpose. Networking only works when you approach it with intention. Advice for the Next Generation of Lawyers Kozyak offers a straightforward message for young lawyers seeking mentorship or career direction: * Do not wait for opportunities to come to you. * Attend events and engage with people intentionally. * Introduce yourself and ask thoughtful questions. * Build relationships early. In his words, the most important step is simple: Go knock on doors.  About the Guest John Kozyak is the co-founder of Kozyak Tropin & Throckmorton and a nationally recognized trial lawyer. Over his career he has represented clients in high-stakes litigation, complex bankruptcies, and major receiverships. He is also an author, lecturer, and longtime advocate for mentorship and diversity within the legal profession. If you enjoyed this Legend Series episode of The Practice Podcast, consider subscribing and sharing the episode with your network. Streaming on  YouTube, [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJ9ViLUMRpuHPKqAiEDyttQ] Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/4YJuxSpSzdeWD5PsN6bend], Amazon Music [https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/29f6ed52-2cb5-442c-a795-290f9350f692/THE-PRACTICE-PODCAST?referer=https%3A%2F%2Fmusic.amazon.com%2Fpodcasts%2F29f6ed52-2cb5-442c-a795-290f9350f692%2FTHE-PRACTICE-PODCAST], and Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-practice-podcast/id1566884697?itsct=podcast_box_link&itscg=30200]. We are also in the top ten percent of listened-to podcasts globally [https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/the-practice-podcast-bast-amron-sq4n7KMLRi9/].