The Trial Lawyers College Podcast

Representing Catastrophic Loss with John Sloan

Maren Chaloupka sits down with longtime Trial Lawyers College faculty member and past president John Sloan to discuss the unique challenges of representing clients who have suffered catastrophic injuries. John shares lessons from decades of trial experience, including the importance of before-and-after witnesses, listening, role reversal, and understanding how an injury has changed not only a client's abilities, but their entire life. They also discuss how TLC methods help lawyers connect more deeply with their clients and communicate those losses authentically to a jury. The conversation concludes with a preview of TLC's 2027 catastrophic injury seminar, which will focus on developing powerful opening statements in these difficult cases.

Solo to Shared with Monica Hartsock

Monica Hartsock joins Andrew Delaney and Amanda Harbour for a candid conversation about consumer protection litigation, building a successful solo practice, and the unexpected value of finding a community of trial lawyers. From fighting financial institutions and corporate misconduct to preparing witnesses through psychodrama and storytelling, Monica shares how Trial Lawyers College reshaped not only her trial skills but also the way she collaborates with other lawyers.

Advocacy Beyond Assumption with Eric Davis

In this episode of the Trial Lawyers College Podcast, Brady Skinner III sits down with legendary trial lawyer and longtime TLC faculty member Eric Davis for an honest conversation about race, justice, and the realities of practicing law in America. Together, they examine how racial bias can shape the criminal legal system, the unique experiences of Black trial lawyers, and the responsibility of advocates to confront prejudice while remaining steadfast in the defense of every client's constitutional rights. Eric shares powerful stories from his decades in the courtroom, discusses navigating difficult judges and juries, and explains how the Trial Lawyers College transformed his approach to storytelling, voir dire, cross-examination, and authentic advocacy.

Transformed with Reshae Ridley

In this episode of the Trial Lawyers College Podcast, Amanda Harber and Andy Delaney welcome Harris County Public Defender and 2025 TLC graduate Reshae Ridley to share her experience at the College's Three-Week program at Camp Dawson. Shay reflects on her path from military service and public service to criminal defense, why she believes psychodrama is the foundation for authentic advocacy, and how vulnerability transformed both her approach to clients and her courtroom skills. She also discusses the lifelong friendships formed through TLC, the value of continued learning, and why she believes the College is one of the best investments an attorney, or a supervisor, can make. Whether you're considering attending the Three-Week program or simply want to hear how human connection can elevate trial advocacy, this conversation offers an inspiring look at the heart of the Trial Lawyers College experience.

Riding the Silent Pony with Robin Zephier

In this deeply reflective episode of the Trial Lawyers College Podcast, Maren Chaloupka sits down with longtime TLC graduate, trial lawyer, author, and teacher Robin Zephier. Robin shares the family stories, Indigenous traditions, and spiritual teachings that shaped his life, from the oral histories passed down by his grandmother to the legacy of his great-grandfather, Mato Niampi ("Saved by Bear"). Together, they explore how those lessons have influenced Robin's work as a trial lawyer, his commitment to serving others, and the profound impact of Trial Lawyers College on his understanding of storytelling, psychodrama, and human connection. The conversation also introduces Robin's moving new poem, Riding the Silent Pony, written for the College's Walk in Silence tradition: a meditation on self-discovery, listening, and reconnecting with the person waiting within. This episode is an invitation to slow down, honor the stories that came before us, and remember that the most important journey is often the one inward.