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Journey to Esquire®️ The Podcast

Journey to Esquire®️ The Podcast

By Journey to Esquire - A Program of Diversity Access Pipeline, Inc.

A resource for students and lawyers alike providing the best ways to promote diversity, create access, and feed the legal pipeline with lawyers who will lead, mentor and inspire. The format will vary between interviews, tutorials, recordings of live events and individual stories from legal professionals in the Tampa Bay Area. This podcast is a project of Diversity Access Pipeline, Inc. a Florida nonprofit corporation and 501(c)(3) charitable organization. The podcast is run by students and alumni in the Journey to Esquire: Scholarship & Leadership Program.
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Haley Moss- Neurodiversity

Journey to Esquire®️ The PodcastJan 13, 2020

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Dionne "Dee" M. Jones, JD, PhD | Pivoting In Your Law Career and Preparing to Become a Judge

Dionne "Dee" M. Jones, JD, PhD | Pivoting In Your Law Career and Preparing to Become a Judge

In this episode, we pass the mic to Dee Jones to discuss pivoting during your law career and preparing to become a judge. Dionne "Dee" M. Jones is the daughter of Command Sergeant Major (Ret.) Levester Jones, Sr. and the late Liza Dudley Jones. She is an alumna of the University of Florida, having earned her Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with a minor in education. Following her passion for advocacy and the law, Dionne earned a Juris Doctorate from the University of Florida Levin College of Law, where she was a Council on Legal Education Opportunity Fellow. Dionne has been an attorney for 28 years, having practiced both civil and criminal law and tried a plethora of cases to verdict. Within the civil domain, she has handled auto liability as well as workers’ compensation cases as well as family law and employment law cases. Under the criminal law umbrella, Dionne has provided oversight for dependency law cases and was a felony-level prosecutor for several years, where she served focused on domestic violence, aggravated battery and aggravated assault cases. Dionne earned a PhD in Higher Education Leadership in 2013. Upon graduation, she served as an Assistant Professor, the Co-Director of the Law and Medicine Scholarly Concentration, as well as the Co-Director of the Coaching program at the College of Medicine. Her research agenda centered upon physician leadership as well as the intersectionality of law and medicine. Currently, Dionne is a senior trial attorney for Allstate Insurance Company and simultaneously serves in a quasi-judicial role as a Hearing Officer for Hillsborough County. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her daughters, Lauren and Kaitlyn, who are full-time students at the University of Miami School of Law and Georgetown University Law School, respectively. Fun fact: Dee appreciates traveling and the culinary arts.
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Mar 15, 202429:24
Rosalyn Baker-Barnes | Embracing Resilience, Building Relationships, and Getting Out of Your Comfort Zone

Rosalyn Baker-Barnes | Embracing Resilience, Building Relationships, and Getting Out of Your Comfort Zone

In this episode, we pass the mic to Rosalyn "Sia" Baker-Barnes, who is positioned to become the first Black woman to hold the office of President of The Florida Bar, to discuss developing resilience, building relationships, and getting out of your comfort zone. Rosalyn “Sia" Baker-Barnes, President-Elect designate of The Florida Bar,  is a Shareholder at Searcy Denney Scarola Barnhart & Shipley, P.A., and the Chairperson of the firm’s Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee.  In her over 20-year career, she has successfully pursued justice for victims in personal injury, medical negligence and product liability cases and frequently lectures throughout the United States on catastrophic injury cases. She has achieved numerous multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements, including a landmark $20 million compensatory and punitive damages verdict against tobacco giant RJ Reynolds Tobacco Company that was affirmed by the Florida Supreme Court and reached the United States Supreme Court.

Ms. Baker-Barnes is a Florida Bar Board Certified Civil Trial Lawyer who is recognized by US News & World Report as one of the “Best Lawyers in America” and by Lawdragon as one of America’s “500 Leading Plaintiff Consumer Lawyers.” She is recognized as a top lawyer in the state by Florida Super Lawyers magazine, named in Florida Trend magazine’s “Legal Elite,” and was selected by the Daily Business Review as one of South Florida’s Inaugural “Top 20 Women in Law.” Committed to professionalism, civility and service, Ms. Baker-Barnes serves on The Florida Bar Board of Governors, representing the Fifteenth Judicial Circuit. Social Media Handle- @siabakerbarnes Palm Beach County Sheree Davis Cunningham Black Women Lawyers Association - https://sdcbwla.wildapricot.org/ Fun Fact - I am a die-hard sports fan and a different person when attending sporting events. @siabakerbarnes #siabakerbarnes

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Mar 08, 202447:04
Zachariah Wade | Voluntary Bar Associations

Zachariah Wade | Voluntary Bar Associations

In this episode, we pass the mic to Zachariah Wade to discuss building community in law school and as a lawyer through voluntary bar associations.

Attorney Zachariah Wade is a born-and-raised Floridian who grew up in Orange and Marion Counties. After obtaining his bachelor’s degree from Florida A&M University, he earned his law degree from the Stetson University College of Law. During law school, Zachariah became a member of the #1 Trial Team in the nation and competed across the United States. After law school, Zachariah became an Advocacy Skills Trainer for the Stetson Trial Team and now fills the position of Adjunct Professor of Trial Advocacy with the College of Law.

Prior to joining our practice, Zachariah served the people of Pinellas County as an Assistant State Attorney. In his role as an ASA, Zachariah earned his stripes in the courtroom and has handled cases that include drug crimes, domestic violence, DUI/BUI, violent crimes, sexual batteries, traffic fatalities, and murder.

Fun Fact - During college, he was a member of FAMU's Incomparable Marching "100" as a member of the percussion section drumline.

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Feb 23, 202435:16
Pye Young | First-Generation Americans and Lawyers Part II

Pye Young | First-Generation Americans and Lawyers Part II

In this episode, we pass the mic to Pye Young to discuss first-generation Americans and law students. Pye N. Young is the managing attorney of Bay Area Legal Services West Office, located in St. Petersburg, FL. She joined the team in 2019 after maintaining a civil litigation practice for several years. She specializes in assisting veterans in obtaining the VA services they need and provides general legal counsel on other client-related matters. As a Lead Attorney with the Bay Area/ Bay Pines VA Medical Legal Partnership (MLP), Pye and her team established a strong relationship within the VA and expanded legal services to Veterans in a three-county service area. Currently, the MLP is accessed by over 400 Veterans each year. Pye received her Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Social Sciences from Florida State University in 2001 and graduated from Stetson University College of Law in 2005. She enjoys volunteering in her community, spending time with family, and traveling. She looks forward to expanding Bay Area's mission of creating pathways for change.

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Feb 16, 202435:04
Debbie Crockett | First-Generation Americans and Lawyers

Debbie Crockett | First-Generation Americans and Lawyers

In this episode, we pass the mic to Debbie Sines Crockett to discuss first-generation Americans and lawyers. Debbie Sines Crockett is a member of the firm’s litigation department, and she concentrates on the areas of commercial and construction litigation. Ms. Crockett is experienced in representing policyholders in litigation against carriers from the trial level through appeal in both state and federal courts. She has considerable experience in assisting clients, mainly general contractors and subcontractors, with complex issues such as additional insured status, contractual indemnity, risk management, and other risk transfer mechanisms. She also reviews and revises construction contracts as to the insurance and indemnity provisions. Her practice includes all aspects and types of insurance recovery, including insurance denials, claim representation, and both first and third-party bad faith/extra-contractual claims. Ms. Crockett moved from Maryland to Southwest Florida in 2004. Just prior to joining the firm, she was an equity partner in the law firm of Boyle, Gentile, Leonard and Crockett, P.A. in Fort Myers, Florida. She began her legal career as a prosecutor in the Baltimore City State Attorney’s Office. Upon moving to Florida, she continued her commitment to public service by working as a CLI prosecutor in the Office of the State Attorney of the Twentieth Judicial Circuit in Naples. Ms. Crockett is licensed to practice law in Florida and in Maryland.

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Feb 09, 202449:28
Barbara Pittman | Embracing New Opportunities and Sports Law

Barbara Pittman | Embracing New Opportunities and Sports Law

In this episode, we pass the mic to Barbara Pittman to discuss embracing new opportunities and sports law.

Barbara Pittman owns the Law Offices of Barbara Pittman, P.A.. She handles legal matters in the following practice areas: Family Law, Divorce, Child Custody, Child Support, Time/Sharing Visitation Rights, Personal Injury, Automobile Accidents, Criminal Defense, Juvenile Law, and Sports Law.

She was admitted to practice in 1986, Florida U.S. District Court, Middle District of Florida and U.S. Court of Appeals, 11th Circuit.

She graduated from Florida State University with her J.D.

Member: American Bar Association; Florida Bar; Hillsborough County Bar Association; National Bar Association; Past President, Virgil Hawkins Florida Chapter National Bar Association; George Edgecomb Bar Association; Hillsborough Association of Women Lawyers; Florida Association Of Women Lawyers; Carrollwood Bar Association.

Biography: Assistant State Attorney, 1985-1988 (Hillsborough County, Florida); Former Chair, Thirteenth Circuit Judicial Nominating Commission; Former Vice Chair, Thirteenth Circuit Judicial Nominating Commission; Former Member, Florida Bar’s 13-F Grievance Committee; Former Member, Florida Bar’s Criminal Procedure Rules Committee; Former Member, Florida Bar’s Continuing Legal Education Committee; Member, Florida Board of Bar Examiners.

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Feb 02, 202449:18
Judge Claudia Isom | Women in the Law and the Judiciary

Judge Claudia Isom | Women in the Law and the Judiciary

In this episode, we pass the mic to Judge Claudia Isom to discuss women in the law and the judiciary.

Claudia Rickert Isom became a member of the Florida Bar on October 23, 1975. She was elected to the judiciary and served as a circuit judge in the Thirteenth Judicial Circuit for 28 years before retiring in December 2018. Judge Isom currently serves as a senior judge. During her judicial career, she served in Family Law, Criminal Justice (Felony), Juvenile Dependency, Juvenile Delinquency, Circuit Civil, East Division (Plant City), the Probate, Guardianship and Trust Division and Circuit Civil Division. She previously chaired the Florida Bar’s Standing Committee on Professionalism and the Rules of Judicial Administration Committee. Judge Isom served on the Florida Bar Rules of Civil Procedure Committee and the Code and Rules of Evidence Committee. Isom is a member and past president of the Tampa Bay Inn of Court and served as the judge member of the 13th Judicial Circuit’s Diversity Team for eight years following the Supreme Court’s creation of Court Diversity Teams. Judge Isom retired from the bench in 2018 and currently serves as a senior judge. Since retirement, Judge Isom has become a certified mediator and remains involved in diversity awareness and bias elimination initiatives. She is a member of the Florida Conference of Circuit Judges Executive Committee and currently co-chairs its Senior Judges Committee. Judge Isom is a frequent trainer in the area of diversity and reducing bias in the judicial branch. Judge Isom served twelve years as a member of the Supreme Court’s Standing Committee on Fairness and Diversity and chaired its Education Subcommittee. A 1975 FSU College of Law graduate, Judge Isom has been married to her law school classmate, Woody Isom, for 50 years; is the mother of four children (including two lawyers); and grandmother to six granddaughters.

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Jan 26, 202445:31
Kristin Norse | Appellate Practice and Women in the Law

Kristin Norse | Appellate Practice and Women in the Law

In this episode we pass the mic to Kristin Norse to discuss developing an appellate practice and women in the law. Kristin Norse is a partner at Kynes, Markman & Felman, P.A., where she practices exclusively in the areas of appellate practice, litigation support, and trial consulting in state and federal courts. Ms. Norse has over 30 years of experience in Florida trial and appellate courts. She received her juris doctorate degree from Boston University School of Law, and has a Bachelor of Arts Degree in English, cum laude, from Boston University’s College of Arts and Sciences. After law school, she joined Hampton, Stoddard, Griffin & Runnells, P.A., and later worked with the firm of Harris, Barrett, Mann & Dew, P.A. After seven years in private practice, Ms. Norse became a senior staff attorney for the Honorable Chris W. Altenbernd at the Second District Court of Appeal. She remained in that position until joining Kynes, Markman & Felman, P.A. Ms. Norse is the current chair of the Rules of General Practice and Judicial Administration Committee and a past Chair of the Appellate Practice Section and a past Chair of the Appellate Court Rules Committee. She is a past president of the Florida Association for Women Lawyers and the Hillsborough Association for Women Lawyers. She has served on The Florida Bar’s Citizen’s Advisory Council as a lawyer member, and on the Special Committee on Gender Bias. She is also a mentor for Starting Right Now, and a mother to a law student and wife to an attorney who works for Bay Area Legal Services.

Social Media

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Jan 19, 202431:36
Jennifer Duclair | The Bar Exam Mentor Mindset and the Military

Jennifer Duclair | The Bar Exam Mentor Mindset and the Military

In this episode, we pass the mic to Jessica Duclair - The Bar Exam Mentor, to discuss developing a mindset and military service.

Jennifer’s Story: “Passing the Bar the first time and getting a job right after is the coveted route. No other outcome crossed her mind. She prided myself on having never failed at anything before. I believed this Bar Exam would be no sweat. I went and sat for the Bar, and I failed. You’re talking about the girl who started college at age 15, was traipsing around the world worry-free with a degree in hand by age 20, and had gotten through a top-tier Law School curriculum while raising a child— alone, serving in the military and working!She couldn’t even begin to add up how failing the Bar had happened.”…

Jennifer cracked the riddle to the Bar Exam retake cycle, uncovering the ONE THING Law schools and Bar reviews hadn’t been covering in class—mindset prep.

With the proven, repeatable process that Jennifer created, she went on to blast through barrier after barrier to achieve each new goal she set.

Armed with a set system to transform any hurdle into fuel for success, she turned to helping others who experienced the same setbacks she once did.

She began teaching and coaching Bar Exam takers on how to transform setbacks, shift mindset, and blast past barriers so they could excel on the Bar Exam and beyond.

Jennifer competently guides committed, resourceful, and coachable. Bar Exam takers to shorten their wait between graduation and swearing-in date and to close this chapter of academia so they can finally move on to their attorney lives.

Links - https://jenniferduclair.com/articles/top5, https://jenniferduclair.com/about-mejourneytoesquire@gmail.com, https://linkedin.com/in/jenniferduclair

The manual that I offered is here- https://www.jenniferduclair.com/manual-to-bust-bar-exam-blocks

That is in addition to the first-time taker's mindset training; I also offered it here - https://www.jenniferduclair.com/triumphant

Social Media

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Jan 12, 202433:07
Jessica Merker | Alumni Update - Journey to Esquire®️ Scholarship & Leadership Program

Jessica Merker | Alumni Update - Journey to Esquire®️ Scholarship & Leadership Program

Jessica Merker is a Staff Attorney and Internship Coordinator at the Second District Court of Appeal, State of Florida. She owns and operates Merk The Moment LLC, a custom typewriter poetry collective that provides on-demand poems at events and weddings and commissioned poems to honor the moments that matter most. After a short conversation, you will receive a poem typed on handmade paper using a vintage typewriter.

Jessica: It's been a joy to foster this creative side of myself, and I will always be grateful for Journey to Esquire for emphasizing wellness and finding fulfillment in every aspect of my life. Fun Fact- her first time reading one of her poems to an audience was during her Scholar Presentation!


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Jan 05, 202422:35
Destiny Rawls | Alumni Update - Journey to Esquire®️ Scholarship & Leadership Program

Destiny Rawls | Alumni Update - Journey to Esquire®️ Scholarship & Leadership Program

Destiny (Rawls) Davis graduated from Stetson University College of Law with a Juris Doctor, Law in 2021 and Florida Gulf Coast University with a Bachelor of Science - BS, Criminal Justice and Legal Studies in 2017. Activities and societies: Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated - Gamma Tau Chapter Order of Omega Greek Honor Society Activities and societies: Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated - Gamma Tau Chapter Order of Omega Greek Honor Society

Destiny works at the Legal Aid Society of Palm Beach County Staff Attorney Education Advocacy. She is also the Young Lawyers’ Board Member for the Palm Beach County Justice Association Community involvement - https://www.pbcja.org/board-of-directors/ https://legalaidpbc.org/children/ Fun Fact - Outside of work, I am currently planning my October 2023 wedding. I have minimal experience with event planning so this has been a journey! Contact - Drawls@legalaidpbc.org

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Dec 22, 202313:24
Jemima Zetrenne | Alumni Update - Journey to Esquire®️ Scholarship & Leadership Program

Jemima Zetrenne | Alumni Update - Journey to Esquire®️ Scholarship & Leadership Program

Jemima Pierre Zetrenne lives in Tampa Bay, Florida, along with her husband, Luksonne and daughter, Zoie. She is originally from Long Island, New York so she visits Florida frequently to spend time with family, and her husband’s family is from Pompano Beach, Florida, so they visit there frequently as well. She has lived in Florida since 2006 and the Tampa Bay Area since 2009. She is also a first-generation American of Haitian descent. Currently, She's an assistant state attorney here in Hillsborough County. She has been a practicing criminal law attorney for 3 years. Prior to that, Jemima was a paralegal/legal assistant in civil litigation. She has worked in solo practitioners’ offices, small to mid-size law firms and for in-house counsel of a Fortune 500 company. Jemima graduated from the University of South Florida with a bachelor's degree in criminology and her Juris Doctor from Thomas M Cooley Law School. She's a member of The Florida Bar, The Hillsborough County Bar Association, and The Tampa Club. She enjoys doing public work, especially working for the State. When she is not working, she loves to spend time with her family and relax at home.

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Dec 08, 202343:16
Breyon Love | Alumni Update - Journey to Esquire®️ Scholarship & Leadership Program

Breyon Love | Alumni Update - Journey to Esquire®️ Scholarship & Leadership Program

Breyon graduated from Stetson University College of Law in 2021 with a Juris Doctor and a Masters in Business Administration and from Florida A & M University with a Bachelor of Science (B.S.), in Business Administration and Management in 2012. He was a Staff Attorney for Judge Tangela M. Barrie at the Superior Court of DeKalb County. He is a legal professional with a demonstrated history of working in the legal services industry. Skilled in legal writing, research, advocacy, and leadership. Experience drafting and negotiating government and commercial contracts. HE recently accepted an offer at a law firm.

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Nov 24, 202323:04
Denia Angelino | Alumni Update - Journey to Esquire®️ Scholarship & Leadership Program

Denia Angelino | Alumni Update - Journey to Esquire®️ Scholarship & Leadership Program

This podcast episode is part of our Where are they Now? Alumni Update Series, where we check in with our alumni to see how they're doing, celebrate their accomplishments and reflect on the lessons they learned from the program. Denia Angelino is a Class of 2021 alum. Denia Angelino is a daughter of undocumented immigrants, a first-generation Latina graduate of Stetson Law, and a California barred attorney. At seven months pregnant, Denia started her first semester of law school, and she experienced what it was like to be both a part-time and full-time student while taking care of her daughter. Following graduation, Denia took the California Bar Exam in July '21 and passed on the first try. Denia was admitted to the California Bar in January '23 and now practices landlord/tenant habitability law as a first-year associate, where she works on cases for tenants in Los Angeles, CA, who live in the same rough neighborhoods Denia grew up in. Denia is also a content creator who mentors the next generation of diverse women lawyers. Aside from lawyering and mentoring, Denia is also a volunteer assistant coach to Cal Poly Pomona's Mock Trial team. Currently, Denia enjoys living in San Diego, CA with her husband, six-year-old daughter, and their dog Mila. Social Media

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Nov 17, 202330:25
Luis Aleman | Scholar Presentation - Journey to Esquire®️ Scholarship & Leadership Program

Luis Aleman | Scholar Presentation - Journey to Esquire®️ Scholarship & Leadership Program

In this episode, we pass the mic to Class of 2019 Scholar  Luis A. Aleman, a graduate of Stetson University College of Law  who will give his Scholar Presentation and share the program's impact on his "journey to esquire."


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Jul 14, 202305:12
Assita Toure | Scholar Presentation - Journey to Esquire®️ Scholarship & Leadership Program

Assita Toure | Scholar Presentation - Journey to Esquire®️ Scholarship & Leadership Program

In this episode, we pass the mic to Class of 2019 Scholar Assita Toure a graduate of Stetson University College of Law who will give her Scholar Presentation and share the program's impact on her "journey to esquire."

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Jul 07, 202311:09
Kishnee Theus | Scholar Presentation - Journey to Esquire®️ Scholarship & Leadership Program

Kishnee Theus | Scholar Presentation - Journey to Esquire®️ Scholarship & Leadership Program

In this episode, we pass the mic to Class of 2020 Scholar Kishnee Theus, a graduate of WMU Cooley Law School who will give her Scholar Presentation and share the program's impact on her "journey to esquire."

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Jun 30, 202311:23
Brielle Tucker | Scholar Presentation - Journey to Esquire®️ Scholarship & Leadership Program

Brielle Tucker | Scholar Presentation - Journey to Esquire®️ Scholarship & Leadership Program

In this episode, we pass the mic to Class of 2019 Scholar Brielle Tucker, a graduate of Stetson University College of Law  who will give her Scholar Presentation and share the program's impact on her "journey to esquire."

www.journeytoesquire.com

info@journeytoesquire.com

@JourneytoEsquire

Jun 23, 202306:36
Jessica Sivillo | Class of 2023 Scholar Presentation

Jessica Sivillo | Class of 2023 Scholar Presentation

In this episode, we pass the mic to Class of 2023 Scholar Jessica Sivillo to discuss academic success in law school.

Jessica graduated from WMU Cooley Law School, where she was a leader in many student organizations, including on the board of the Florida Association of Women Lawyers, and the Executive Notes Editor for the Cooley Law Review. She also had the honor of being chosen by her classmates as the valedictory speaker for graduation. She also received a degree from the University of Tampa; her activities there included the following- Secretary of The National Society of Collegiate Scholars, Phi Eta Sigma National Honor Society, Best Buddies, Alpha Chi Omega, The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, Sigma Delta Pi National Collegiate Hispanic Honor Society Activities and societies: Secretary of The National Society of Collegiate Scholars, Phi Eta Sigma National Honor Society, Best Buddies, Alpha Chi Omega, The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, Sigma Delta Pi National Collegiate Hispanic Honor Society…see more Major: Communications Minors: Spanish; Law, Justice, and Advocacy We create lawyers who lead, mentor, and inspire ... one student at a time. The Journey to Esquire: Scholarship & Leadership Program* provides academic and professional development for students interested in becoming lawyers.  The journey to esquire is a long one, but we are here to help! ​ We are essential for diverse law students who need financial and emotional support because we provide cash scholarships, mentors, and training, which helps them pass the bar exam, obtain employment with competitive and powerful employers, and obtain leadership positions in professional associations.

Social Media

Website: www.journeytoesquire.com

Email: info@journeytoesquire.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dive...

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JourneytoEsq/

YT: https://youtube.com/@journeytoesquire

Twitter: @JourneytoEsq                

https://mobile.twitter.com/journeytoesq

Instagram: @JourneytoEsq 

https://www.instagram.com/journeytoesq/

Jun 16, 202331:23
Brittney Lainez | Scholar Presentation - Journey to Esquire®️ Scholarship & Leadership Program

Brittney Lainez | Scholar Presentation - Journey to Esquire®️ Scholarship & Leadership Program

In this episode, we pass the mic to Class of 2019 Scholar Brittney Lainez, a graduate of WMU Cooley Law School  who will give her Scholar Presentation and share the program's impact on her "journey to esquire."


Social Media

Website: www.journeytoesquire.com

Email: info@journeytoesquire.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dive...

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JourneytoEsq/

YT: https://youtube.com/@journeytoesquire

Twitter: @JourneytoEsq                

https://mobile.twitter.com/journeytoesq

Instagram: @JourneytoEsq 

https://www.instagram.com/journeytoesq/

www.journeytoesquire.com

info@journeytoesquire.com

@JourneytoEsquire

Jun 16, 202309:03
Logan Jackson | Class of 2023 Scholar Presentation

Logan Jackson | Class of 2023 Scholar Presentation

In this episode, we pass the mic to Class of 2023 Scholar Logan Jackson to discuss academic success in law school. Logan Jackson is a graduate of the Stetson University College of Law, where she was the President of the Black Law Students Association, a member of the Trial Team, and won two championships, including an award for the best opening statement, and won a writing competition with the Center for Reproductive Rights, and UC Berkeley School of Law for recognizing me as the first place winner of the 2022 Writing Prize for New Student Scholarship in Reproductive Rights & Justice. Look out for the piece, “Willful Disregard: How Ignoring Structural Racism in Maternal Mortality has led Black Women to Become Invisible in Their Own Crisis,” in the Berkeley Journal of Gender, Law & Justice. She is also a graduate of Loyola University New Orleans. Bachelor of Arts - BA, Sociology with a Concentration in Social Justice and Inequalities Bachelor of Arts - BA, Sociology with a Concentration in Social Justice and Inequalities2016 - 20192016 - 2019• Activities and societies: Black Student Union | President; Nu Mu Citywide Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. | Social Action Chair

In this episode, you'll hear all about our great scholars and the work they are doing in law school and throughout their third year. We also share information about our podcast, blog posts, alumni updates, and our Fifth Anniversary Celebration and Fundraiser in downtown Tampa on October 14, 2023. We're having a Brunch & Bubbly event featuring Mimosas and Mocktails VIP Reception, awards, a keynote speaker, and more. Stay tuned for details. We create lawyers who lead, mentor, and inspire … one student at a time. The Journey to Esquire: Scholarship & Leadership Program* provides academic and professional development for students interested in becoming lawyers. The journey to esquire is a long one, but we are here to help! ​We are essential for diverse law students who need financial and emotional support because we provide cash scholarships, mentors, and training, which helps them pass the bar exam, obtain employment with competitive and powerful employers, and obtain leadership positions in professional associations.

Social Media

Website: www.journeytoesquire.com

Email: info@journeytoesquire.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dive...

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JourneytoEsq/

YT: https://youtube.com/@journeytoesquire

Twitter: @JourneytoEsq                

https://mobile.twitter.com/journeytoesq

Instagram: @JourneytoEsq 

https://www.instagram.com/journeytoesq/

Jun 09, 202316:00
Journey to Esquire Oral History | A Documentary of Pioneering Black Attorneys in Tampa Bay

Journey to Esquire Oral History | A Documentary of Pioneering Black Attorneys in Tampa Bay

J🎥📚 Experience the power of oral history with our 'Journey to Esquire: An Oral History' playlist. This series features in-depth interviews with influential African-American attorneys from the civil rights era in the Tampa Bay area. Dive into the stories of Delano Stewart, former State Senator Arthenia Joyner, Donald Odom, and retired Justice Peggy A. Quince. From humble beginnings in the tumultuous times of the fifties, sixties, and seventies, they've risen to remarkable heights in their legal careers, overcoming countless challenges and forging paths for those who followed. Discover the resilience, dedication, and unwavering spirit that guided them through their personal and professional lives. Their narratives shed light on our past, illuminating the hurdles they've crossed and the triumphs they've earned. Join us on this journey, listen to their words, learn from their experiences, and liberate your understanding of history and justice. Click on the link, sit back, and let these inspiring voices transport you back in time.🎙️🖤 #OralHistory #CivilRights #AfricanAmericanAttorneys #TampaBay #Justice #Inspiration #juneteenth

Social Media

Website: www.journeytoesquire.com

Email: info@journeytoesquire.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dive...

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JourneytoEsq/

YT: https://youtube.com/@journeytoesquire

Twitter: @JourneytoEsq                

https://mobile.twitter.com/journeytoesq

Instagram: @JourneytoEsq 

https://www.instagram.com/journeytoesq/

Jun 02, 202330:25
Class of 2023 Scholar Presentation

Class of 2023 Scholar Presentation

In this episode, we pass the mic to the Class of 2023, Logan Jackson and Jessica Sivillo to discuss academic success in law school. In this episode, you'll hear all about our great scholars and the work they are doing in law school and throughout their third year. We also share information about our podcast, blog posts, alumni updates, and our Fifth Anniversary Celebration and Fundraiser in downtown Tampa on October 14, 2023. We're having a Brunch & Bubbly event featuring Mimosas and Mocktails VIP Reception, awards, a keynote speaker, and more. Stay tuned for details.

We create lawyers who lead, mentor, and inspire … one student at a time.

The Journey to Esquire: Scholarship & Leadership Program* provides academic and professional development for students interested in becoming lawyers.  The journey to esquire is a long one, but we are here to help! ​

We are essential for diverse law students who need financial and emotional support because we provide cash scholarships, mentors, and training, which helps them pass the bar exam, obtain employment with competitive and powerful employers, and obtain leadership positions in professional associations.


Social Media

Website: www.journeytoesquire.com

Email: info@journeytoesquire.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dive...

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JourneytoEsq/

YT: https://youtube.com/@journeytoesquire

Twitter: @JourneytoEsq                

https://mobile.twitter.com/journeytoesq

Instagram: @JourneytoEsq 

https://www.instagram.com/journeytoesq/

Jun 02, 202358:55
Shamika Askew | Failing Forward

Shamika Askew | Failing Forward

In this episode, we pass the mic to Shamika T. Askew to discuss failing forward in life.


She was born and raised in Michigan but has made Florida her permanent residency. Prior to moving to Florida, Ms. Askew worked for a state governmental agency, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR), for eight years. During those years, her love for public service derived. As a public servant, she performed several duties, including reviewing contracts to determine compliance, drafting pleadings and motions, answering discovery requests, and conducting contested case hearings. She served in multiple roles, which included: Legal Policy Analyst and liaison between the MDNR and the Michigan Department of Attorney’s General’s Office.


Upon her relocation to Florida, she obtained contractual positions at various firms. She handled several areas of litigation, including drafting and responding to pleadings, discovery, mediation, and trial preparation. Additionally, she represented clients in civil non-jury trials.


Shamika graduated from Tennessee State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration. She obtained her Juris Doctor from Thomas M. Cooley Law School, concentrating in Litigation. While in law school, she enhanced her advocacy skills by participating in multiple moot courts and mock trial competitions.

Attorney Askew has a passion for serving. She is a volunteer Attorney Guardian Ad Litem. She also mentors at-risk juvenile girls by visiting the juvenile facilities on a monthly basis.Ms. Askew is a firm believer in work-life balance. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, traveling, relaxing on the beach, and attending Love First Christian Center.


Connect with Shamika on Instagram, Tik Tok: @askewlawoffice

Facebook: askewlawoffice.com


Money Mindset Seminar by Joseline- https://flayld.org/2023/04/yldmoneytalk-series-shift-your-money-mindset/

Social Media

Website: www.journeytoesquire.com

Email: info@journeytoesquire.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dive...

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JourneytoEsq/

YT: https://youtube.com/@journeytoesquire

Twitter: @JourneytoEsq                

https://mobile.twitter.com/journeytoesq

Instagram: @JourneytoEsq 

https://www.instagram.com/journeytoesq/

May 26, 202348:56
Lisa Blasser | Academic Success in Law School

Lisa Blasser | Academic Success in Law School

In this episode, we pass the mic to Lisa Blasser to discuss academic success in law school.

Make sure to check out the free eBook- link below!

In 2001, Lisa was a first-gen law student studying her heart out, thinking she was fully prepared for the first semester finals. Despite intense effort, she was placed on academic probation and given one semester to either figure out how to succeed in law school or risk being kicked out. During her probationary semester, she realized she had been aimlessly reading and outlining everything under the sun without a clear purpose--she was merely completing tasks to check them off a list. Lisa owned her probation status, changed her study process, got off probation, her GPA began to increase every semester, she graduated with high honors and passed the California Bar Exam on her first attempt. Lisa wanted to get practical experience but knew her career would somehow lead to an opportunity to give back to students, especially first-get law students, what she felt was missing in legal education. Since 2005, Lisa has been representing plaintiffs in catastrophic personal injury matters. In 2013, Lisa and her husband/law partner opened Blasser Law, a southern California-based law firm, where she currently manages the firm's civil litigation matters and continues to specialize in auto, motorcycle, dog bite and big rig accidents. From 2009 to 2021, Lisa was a law professor and ultimately the Director of Academic Success and Bar Preparation at an ABA law school where she worked with thousands of law students to teach them the skills necessary to succeed in law school, on the bar exam, and in the practice. Wanting to offer something more than her on opinion on how to study in law school, in 2015-2016, Lisa conducted a two-year qualitative phenomenological study to uncover what successful law students do to succeed in law school. Wanting to help a national audience of pre-law and law students, Lisa took the results of her research and, in 2019, authored her first book, “Nine Steps to Law School Success: A Scientifically Proven Study Process for Success in Law School,” which is the most comprehensive study and calendaring process that a law student can employ to learn the law. In 2020, Lisa opened her second company, Law School Success Institute, where teaches the Nine Step Study Process and her semester scheduling system to pre-law, incoming and current law students across the nation and partners with first-generation and low-income pre-law and law student programs at various law schools, HBCU’s, universities and organizations. Lisa's mantra is that any student, regardless of their background and entering credentials, is capable of succeeding in law school. For several years, Lisa has also served on the founding board of Student Impact, a national non-profit dedicated to supporting students who otherwise could not afford to attend college, graduate school, or higher education, in exchange for community service.

Contact Lisa at lisa@lssisuccess.com. Listeners can also follow me on LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com/in/lisablasser ) and view my website at www.lssisuccess.com.

USC Gould School of Law's C. David Molina First Generation Professionals Program, National Black Pre-Law Conference and Law Fair, Association of Academic Support Educators, The Colleges of Law, Pre-Law Societies and Organizations at various college campuses, Bethune Cookman University, and individual law students nationwide.

Free eBook "Nine Steps to Law School Success" - https://drive.google.com/file/d/1nmD_mHMVg2qK_CzGyMdNq0HI2DgYtxyb/view?usp=sharing

Purchase her book on amazon.com https://cap-press.com/books/isbn/9781531000370/Nine-Steps-to-Law-School-Success

Purchase her law school calendar here_https://www.lssisuccess.com/law-student/

May 17, 202331:30
Briaunna Buckner Durhal | Diversifying Appellate Practice and The Appellate Project (TAP)

Briaunna Buckner Durhal | Diversifying Appellate Practice and The Appellate Project (TAP)

In this episode, we pass the mic to Briaunna Buckner Durhal to discuss appellate practice and mentorship. Briaunna participated in The Appellate Project’s inaugural Mentorship Program and is passionate about ensuring our highest courts reflect our communities Briaunna Buckner Durhal currently serves as a judicial law clerk for the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit. Prior to that, Briaunna served as a law clerk to the Honorable Bernice B. Donald of the United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit. Briaunna received a B.S. in Criminal Justice and an M.P.A. in Public Administration from Jacksonville State University. She received her J.D. from the University of Michigan Law School in 2021.  During law school, she worked as a summer associate for Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP and Lightfoot, Franklin, and White law firm. Briaunna was also hired for a prestigious clerkship in the Ranking Member’s office for the United States Senate Judiciary Committee.   During law school, Briaunna received numerous awards recognizing her civic contributions and academic achievements. Notably, she was named 1L of the Year, she received the Outstanding Student Achievement Award for receiving the highest grade in Civil Procedure I, and she was presented the Women’s Leadership Award. A zealous advocate, Briaunna achieved great success for her oral and written advocacy.  In 2019, Briaunna won the Campbell DeLong Trial Advocacy Competition and earned a place on the school’s Moot Court Board.  During her 3L year, Briaunna made history by being the first female African American to be appointed to the University of Michigan’s Supreme Court and the first female African American to be named Young Alum of the Year at Jacksonville State University.  Pro bono work is incredibly important to Briaunna. During law school, she sought several opportunities to provide pro bono legal services to residents and small businesses in the Detroit area. Through the University of Michigan’s legal clinics and externships, Briaunna helped write an appellate brief to the Sixth Circuit defending an indigent person accused of a crime.  She also co-wrote an amicus brief to the Michigan Supreme Court urging the Court to clarify an ambiguous provision in Michigan’s Consumer Protection law.  In her free time, Briaunna loves to spend time with her daughter and fiancé, Zola and Fred. She also is a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority. www.theappeallateproject.org

May 12, 202334:14
Kelly Charles Collins | Leveraging Your Profession to Pursue Your Passion
May 05, 202329:01
Lorna Brown Burton| Getting Involved with Bar Associations - Journey to Esquire®️ The Podcast

Lorna Brown Burton| Getting Involved with Bar Associations - Journey to Esquire®️ The Podcast

In this episode, we pass the mic to Lorna Brown-Burton to discuss pursuing service through bar associations, both voluntary and mandatory.

Lorna E. Brown-Burton is an “AV” rated attorney who is licensed to practice law in the State of Florida since 1987 and the Southern District of Florida since 1990. Ms. Brown-Burton’s primary area of practice is workers’ compensation defense representing Employers/Self-Insureds/Carriers for over 30 years and also has experience in the area of Labor and Employment and Social Security Disability as well as representing individuals in Chapters 7 & 13 bankruptcy matters.

Ms. Brown-Burton is a past adjunct professor at Broward College in the Paralegal Degree Program. Prior to joining Lubell | Rosen as a Partner managing the Workers’ Compensation department, she owned and operated her own firm, which was certified as an MWBE/SBE from February of 2004 to August 31, 2014 and from September 1, 2014 to July 31, 2018 Ms. Brown-Burton merged her firm with The DeMicco Law Firm, P.A. where she co-founded the firm, Brown-Burton & DeMicco, PLLC.

She was an active member of the Legal Aid Board of Directors and has held several officer positions which, included President.

Ms. Brown-Burton is a member of the Workers’ Compensation Section of The Florida Bar, a prior elected member of The Florida Bar Board of Governors, Young Lawyers Division, as the Seventeenth Circuit representative, with a special appointment to the Board of Governors, Young Lawyers Division, for the 2002-2003 term and is a former elected President of the Young Lawyers Section of the Broward County Bar Association for the 1996-1997 term. Ms. Brown-Burton completed two 3-year terms on the Florida Bar Grievance Committee “17F” and “17E”, respectively and also served as Chair of the “17E” Grievance committee.

Fun Fact- Initially, I thought I wanted to be a fashion designer and merchandiser until that faithful day on my last day of High School.


Ms. Brown-Burton's Social Media:

Lornab@Lebburtonlaw.com

Linkedin-https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorna-brown-burton-3b76127/


JTE Social Media:

Website: www.journeytoesquire.com Email: info@journeytoesquire.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dive... Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JourneytoEsq/ Twitter: @JourneytoEsq https://mobile.twitter.com/journeytoesq Instagram: @JourneytoEsq https://www.instagram.com/journeytoesq/

YouTube: YT: https://www.youtube.com/@journeytoesquire

Apr 28, 202334:06
Sherriee Detzler| Preparing for Law School and The Bar Exam - Journey to Esquire®️ The Podcast

Sherriee Detzler| Preparing for Law School and The Bar Exam - Journey to Esquire®️ The Podcast

In this episode, we pass the mic to Sherriee Detzler to discuss preparing for law school and the bar exam.

Sherriee Detzler works for AccessLex Institute as the National Director--Helix Bar Engagement. In that role, she is a legal educator and guides students on best practices for preparing for the bar exam while spearheading the first nonprofit Bar Review exam Company which sells its courses and products at cost. She is an educator, attorney, coach, change agent and team leader. Her passion - mentoring and coaching law students to help them prepare for and pass the bar exam. In partnership with law schools and professors across the country, She's worked in the development of superior content and materials for both live and e-learning curriculums resulting in increased bar passage rates for nearly 10,000 students annually. She states about her career "I consider myself fortunate to be able to use my education and experience to support the growth, development, and success of new attorneys at the onset of their careers. I’m elated to be part of the AccessLex Institute Team in furthering our mission of Empowering the next generation of lawyers." Sherriee graduated from Wayne State University Law School, where she obtained her JD, Oakland University, where she obtained her BA; and Macomb Community College, where she obtained her AA degree.

Sherriee Detzler-https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherriee-detzler/

AccessLex Institute -accesslex.org Helix Bar Review- helixbarreview.org ; Bar Associations mentioned - michbar.org; macombbar.org Social Media Website: www.journeytoesquire.com Email: info@journeytoesquire.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dive... Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JourneytoEsq/ Twitter: @JourneytoEsq https://mobile.twitter.com/journeytoesq Instagram: @JourneytoEsq https://www.instagram.com/journeytoesq/ YT: https://www.youtube.com/@journeytoesquire

Apr 21, 202334:56
Forest Sutton | Scholar Presentation - Journey to Esquire®️ Scholarship & Leadership Program

Forest Sutton | Scholar Presentation - Journey to Esquire®️ Scholarship & Leadership Program

In this episode, we pass the mic to Class of 2020 Scholar Forest Sutton, a graduate of Stetson University College of Law who will give his Scholar Presentation and share the program's impact on his "journey to esquire."

www.journeytoesquire.com

info@journeytoesquire.com

@JourneytoEsquire


Apr 14, 202308:35
Aliza Shatzman | Judicial Clerkships & Legal Accountability Project - Journey to Esquire®️ The Podcast

Aliza Shatzman | Judicial Clerkships & Legal Accountability Project - Journey to Esquire®️ The Podcast

In this episode, we pass the mic to Aliza Shatzman to discuss federal judicial clerkships and The Legal Accountability Project.

Aliza Shatzman is the President and Founder of The Legal Accountability Project, a nonprofit aimed at ensuring that law clerks have positive clerkship experiences while extending support and resources to those who do not. Aliza earned her BA from Williams College and her JD from Washington University School of Law. After law school, Aliza clerked in D.C. Superior Court during the 2019-2020 term. In March 2022, Aliza submitted written testimony for a House Judiciary Subcommittee hearing about the lack of workplace protections in the federal judiciary, detailing her personal experience with harassment and retaliation by a former D.C. judge, in order to advocate for the Judiciary Accountability Act, legislation that would extend Title VII protections to judiciary employees, including law clerks. Aliza now writes and speaks regularly about judicial accountability and clerkships. She has been published in numerous law journals and other forums. Fun fact I’m a golfer - I played on the women’s varsity golf team at Williams College.

Fun fact I’m a golfer - I played on the women’s varsity golf team at Williams College.

www.journeytoesquire.com

info@journeytoesquire.com

@JourneytoEsquire

Apr 07, 202337:27
Adrianna Laforest | Scholar Presentation - Journey to Esquire®️ Scholarship & Leadership Program

Adrianna Laforest | Scholar Presentation - Journey to Esquire®️ Scholarship & Leadership Program

In this episode, we pass the mic to Class of 2020 Scholar Adrianna Laforest a graduate of WMU Cooley Law School who will give her Scholar Presentation and share the program's impact on her "journey to esquire."

www.journeytoesquire.com

info@journeytoesquire.com

@JourneytoEsquire

Mar 31, 202309:13
Jemima Pierre Zetrenne | Scholar Presentation -Journey to Esquire®️ Scholarship & Leadership Program

Jemima Pierre Zetrenne | Scholar Presentation -Journey to Esquire®️ Scholarship & Leadership Program

In this episode, we pass the mic to Class of 2019 Scholar Jemima Pierre Zetrenne , a graduate of WMU Cooley Law School  who will give her Scholar Presentation and share the program's impact on her "journey to esquire." 

www.journeytoesquire.com

info@journeytoesquire.com

@JourneytoEsquire

Mar 24, 202310:38
Jacob Delorme | Finding Inspiration from Role Models in Law - Journey to Esquire®️ The Podcast

Jacob Delorme | Finding Inspiration from Role Models in Law - Journey to Esquire®️ The Podcast

In this episode, we pass the mic to Jacob Delorme to discuss finding inspiration from role models in law.

Jacob is an Assistant State Attorney Assistant State Attorney at the State Attorney's Office, 13th Judicial Circuit ·  where he manages caseload between 200 – 400 cases for various misdemeanors, conducts legal research, and drafting of legal documents necessary for case preparation, Interpreting laws, rules, and regulations in management and evaluation of cases, and Interviewing victims and witnesses and analyzing cases to determine their overall strength.

He received his JD from Stetson University College of Law and his undergraduate degree from the University of Central Florida, where he majored in legal studies. He interned at the Southern Poverty Law Center while in law school and was a law clerk at a law firm.

www.journeytoesquire.com

info@journeytoesquire.com

@JourneytoEsquire

Mar 17, 202313:45
Devan Hardaway - Persistence on the Journey - Journey to Esquire®️ The Podcast

Devan Hardaway - Persistence on the Journey - Journey to Esquire®️ The Podcast

In this episode, we pass the mic to Devan Hardaway to discuss pursuing persistence on the journey to esquire.

She is an Assistant State Attorney at Florida's 13th Judicial Circuit. She has worked in that office for several years in different capacities and in different divisions. Ms. Hardaway is a Florida Supreme Court Mediator certified in County and Civil Circuit Mediation. She is also a volunteer Guardian Ad Litem, writer, and photographer and was, at one time, a music teacher.  She discovered a love of criminal law and prosecution when she began her law school journey.

Before becoming an attorney, she worked as a teacher and in other positions. Devan attended WMU Cooley Law School and Fort Valley State University, where she obtained a Bachelor of Arts (BA), English Writing and Political Science Bachelor of Arts (BA), English Writing and Political Science. She participated in Presidential Scholars, was a Student Ambassador, Teaching Assistant, Academic and Athletics Tutor, WIN Lab Writing Editor.

Fun fact- she took the bar exam seven times before she passed!

www.journeytoesquire.com

info@journeytoesquire.com

@JourneytoEsquire

Mar 10, 202328:18
Professor Judith Scully | Pursuing Social Justice in Law School - Journey to Esquire®️ The Podcast

Professor Judith Scully | Pursuing Social Justice in Law School - Journey to Esquire®️ The Podcast

In this episode, we pass the mic to Judith Scully to discuss pursuing social justice in law school.

Judith A.M. Scully has been a law professor since 1996. She joined the Stetson University College of Law in 2009 as a tenured full professor.  From August 2011 until May 2017, she served as the William Reese Smith Distinguished Professor of Law for the purpose of developing public service, pro bono and professionalism programs for Stetson law students. For several years she directed the Stetson Law School Innocence Initiative. She is the founder and co-director of Stetson Law School's Social Justice Advocacy Concentration program and the Alliance for Advocacy and Philanthropy.  She currently co-chairs the St. Petersburg Higher Education for Racial Equity (SPHERE) Consortium and was a founding co-chair of the Florida Law Schools' Consortium on Racial Justice from 2020-2022.

She teaches courses in Criminal Law, Constitutional Law, Social Justice Advocacy, as well as seminars related to Race and American law and international human rights.

Prior to teaching, Professor Scully managed her own law firm in the City of Chicago where she primarily represented plaintiffs in civil rights cases and defendants in criminal cases. She has served as an arbitrator for the Circuit Court of Cook County, an administrative law judge for the Cook County Commission on Human Rights and was the Deputy Director of the Board of Ethics for the City of Chicago.

She has written several articles on eugenics, forced sterilization, and contraceptive abuse. Her work on reproductive rights has been presented at various international forums, including the International Women’s Health and Human Rights Meeting in New Delhi, India; the 8th International Women’s Health Conference in Brazil; and the United Nations World Conference on Women in Beijing. In 1990, as a member of the National Conference of Black Lawyers, Professor Scully worked with the African National Congress (ANC) to help draft the constitution for a Free and Democratic South Africa. Her suggestions for protecting women’s reproductive rights were the basis of South Africa’s constitutional provision guaranteeing a woman’s right to reproductive choice. Her scholarship which also focuses on race and the criminal legal system has appeared in the Wisconsin International Law Journal, Columbia University Law School’s race law journal, the UCLA Women’s Law Journal, the Toledo Law Review, the Encyclopedia of American Civil Liberties and the Encyclopedia of the United States Supreme Court.

She is a passionate advocate for racial justice, women's rights and criminal legal reform.


Social Media

Website: www.journeytoesquire.com

Email: info@journeytoesquire.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dive...

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JourneytoEsq/

YT: https://youtube.com/@journeytoesquire

Twitter: @JourneytoEsq                

https://mobile.twitter.com/journeytoesq

Instagram: @JourneytoEsq 

https://www.instagram.com/journeytoesq/

Mar 03, 202330:56
Kymberly Porter | Balancing Parenthood with Law School - Journey to Esquire®️ The Podcast

Kymberly Porter | Balancing Parenthood with Law School - Journey to Esquire®️ The Podcast

In this episode, we pass the mic to Kymberly Porter  to discuss being a parent while in law school.

Kymberly is originally from Mobile, Alabama. She has had an interesting journey to her current position as a licensed attorney and Law Student Coach. 

After high school, she attended Alabama A&M University for four years until she became unexpectedly pregnant, with only seven classes left until graduation. she moved back home to Mobile, and took 2 years off from school to begin raising her daughter, Amber. Three years later, she finally decided to go to law school after many difficult life circumstances. In the Fall of 2017 she began her first semester at Faulkner University, Thomas Goode Jones School of Law in Montgomery, Alabama.  Kymberly was selected to serve on the executive committee for the Board of Advocates, Faulkner Law's trial advocacy program. Further, Kymberly served as the Executive Editor for the Faulkner Law Review that year. After persevering through a sudden change to online final exams, Kymberly graduated ranked number twelve in her class. Upon graduation, she received a Juris Doctor as well as a Masters of Laws in Dispute Resolution. 

   Although studying for the bar during a pandemic was difficult, Kymberly passed the Alabama bar Exam on her first attempt and was hired almost immediately as an Assistant District Attorney.

Website: theportersolution.com

LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/kymberly-porter-esq-50389b84

Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/theportersolution/


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Feb 24, 202334:48
Azmatullah Mustahsan | Introverted Lawyers - Journey to Esquire®️ The Podcast

Azmatullah Mustahsan | Introverted Lawyers - Journey to Esquire®️ The Podcast

In this episode, we pass the mic to Azmatullah Mustahsan to discuss being an introverted lawyer. 

Azmatullah "Azi" is an Assistant State Attorney, for the 13th Judicial Circuit in Florida.  He is  a recent graduate of WMU Cooley Law School, where he received my Juris Doctorate degree. He received his undergraduate degree from The University at Buffalo where he received his BA in Political Science and Legal Studies. He has worked in various areas of law including, criminal prosecution/defense, personal injury, and family law.

Fun fact: I am a fan of the one and only Buffalo Bills.


Social Media

Website: www.journeytoesquire.com

Email: info@journeytoesquire.com

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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JourneytoEsq/

YT: https://youtube.com/@journeytoesquire

Twitter: @JourneytoEsq                

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Instagram: @JourneytoEsq 

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Feb 17, 202320:32
Katharine Haddad| Building on Your Strengths - Journey to Esquire®️ Scholarship & Leadership Program

Katharine Haddad| Building on Your Strengths - Journey to Esquire®️ Scholarship & Leadership Program

In this episode, we pass the mic to Katharine Haddad  to discuss allyship

Katharine Haddad is an Assistant State Attorney at State Attorney's Office, 13th Judicial Circuit. She is the President-Elect of the Young Lawyers Section of the St. Petersburg Bar Association. She graduated from the University of Florida - Fredric G. Levin College of Law University of Florida - Fredric G. Levin College of Law in 2018, where she was on the • Moot Court Team and received her Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in History in 2017.

Fun fact: I used to tutor math, ranging from algebra to calculus! St. Petersburg Bar Association Young Lawyers Section: https://www.stpetebar.com/page/YLS

Feb 10, 202320:27
Ana Lleonart | Scholar Presentation - Journey to Esquire®️ Scholarship & Leadership Program

Ana Lleonart | Scholar Presentation - Journey to Esquire®️ Scholarship & Leadership Program

In this episode, we pass the mic to Class of 2020 Scholar Ana Lleonart a graduate of Stetson University College of Law who will give her Scholar Presentation and share the program's impact on her "journey to esquire."

www.journeytoesquire.com

info@journeytoesquire.com

@JourneytoEsquire

Feb 03, 202311:27
Justin Bell | Scholar Presentation - Journey to Esquire®️ Scholarship & Leadership Program

Justin Bell | Scholar Presentation - Journey to Esquire®️ Scholarship & Leadership Program

In this episode, we pass the mic to Class of 2020 Scholar Justin Bell, a graduate of Stetson University College of Law who will give his Scholar Presentation and share the program's impact on his "journey to esquire."

www.journeytoesquire.com

info@journeytoesquire.com

@JourneytoEsquire

Jan 27, 202309:19
Darnesha Carter Foli | Board Member Interview - Journey to Esquire®️ The Podcast

Darnesha Carter Foli | Board Member Interview - Journey to Esquire®️ The Podcast

In this episode, we pass the mic to Darnesha Carter Foli. 

Darnesha Carter Foli is a board member of Diversity Access Pipeline, Inc. She has a variety of experience within commercial litigation. She has been instrumental in getting clients favorable results in matters involving product liability, trade secret misappropriation, construction, employment, healthcare, insurance, and securities law. She also has complex litigation experience, defending corporations in class actions, in multi district litigation suits (MDLs), and in multi-jurisdictional matters in both state and federal courts.  Before starting her practice, Darnesha served as a senior law clerk to the Honorable Mary S. Scriven of the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida. There, she conducted legal research, drafted orders, managed and monitored a portion of the case docket, and assisted the Eleventh Circuit Pattern Jury Instruction Committee. Darnesha was the valedictorian of her class at Stetson University College of Law, the first African American woman in the school's history to achieve that honor. She was also awarded the Edward D. Foreman Most Distinguished Student Award, which recognizes one student each year for his or her passion for the legal profession, commitment to serving the family of humankind, and being the best all-around student.

Darnesha has also been recognized by local organizations for her commitment to pro bono service.

Education: Juris Doctor, Stetson University College of Law, summa cum laude, 2016.  B.A. English Literature, Florida A&M University, summa cum laude, 2013. B.A. Psychology, Florida A&M University, summa cum laude, 2013.

www.journeytoesquire.com

info@journeytoesquire.com

@JourneytoEsquire

Jan 20, 202332:01
Ieisha Humphrey | Educational Leadership - Journey to Esquire®️ The Podcast

Ieisha Humphrey | Educational Leadership - Journey to Esquire®️ The Podcast

In this episode, we pass the mic to Ieisha Humphrey.

Ieisha Humphrey was born in Chicago, IL, but spent her formative years in Holland, Michigan, where she graduated from Holland High School.  Ieisha earned a bachelor of arts degree in sociology from Grand Valley State University in Allendale, Michigan and then earned her Juris Doctor from Thomas M. Cooley Law School with a concentration in constitutional law and civil rights. After practicing immigration law, in 2012, she began her career in higher education. Since then, Ieisha has worked in several administrative roles and is now the assistant dean for student affairs at the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law; Ieisha is responsible for supporting and enhancing student life through programming focused on wellness, leadership, and professionalism. Ieisha was appointed to the State Bar of Michigan Task Force on Well-Being in the Law and will work on eliminating the stigma associated with help-seeking behaviors, educating the legal community on well-being issues, and taking steps to instill greater well-being in the law. She is committed to diversifying the legal field, so she also works as a bar exam tutor and grader. Ieisha lives in Southfield, Michigan, with her husband, Perry and two sons, Cameron and Caleb.

Fun fact: If I could wave a magic wand and solve one problem instantly, it would be to put pockets on every skirt and dress made. Why aren't pockets a default?!  

Contact

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ieishahumphrey/

Email: ieishahumphrey@gmail.com


Journey To Esquire

www.journeytoesquire.com

info@journeytoesquire.com

@JourneytoEsquire

Jan 13, 202342:39
Cornelius Demps | Bar Leadership

Cornelius Demps | Bar Leadership

In this episode, we pass the mic to Cornelius Demps to discuss joining the board.

Cornelius Demps is an attorney who represents clients in the Tampa Bay, Florida area. Cornelius Demps is recognized by peers and was selected to Rising Stars for 2019 - 2022. This selection is based off of an evaluation of 12 indicators including peer recognition and professional achievement in legal practice.

Cornelius Demps chose to pursue a career in law after completing undergraduate studies.He attended Stetson University College of Law and graduated in 2010. Cornelius Demps passed the bar exam and was admitted to legal practice in 2011.

He represents clients with Appellate issues in Florida. He also represents clients with Criminal Defense: DUI / DWI, Business Litigation, and Personal Injury - General: Plaintiff issues.

He is the current President of the George Edgecomb Bar Association, the largest African-American voluntary bar in the area which is celebrating its 40th year of service to the bar and the community.

www.journeytoesquire.com

info@journeytoesquire.com

@JourneytoEsq

Jan 06, 202333:01
Marcia Frith | Scholar Presentation - Journey to Esquire®️ Scholarship & Leadership Program

Marcia Frith | Scholar Presentation - Journey to Esquire®️ Scholarship & Leadership Program

In this episode, we pass the mic to Class of 2020 Scholar Marcia Frith a graduate of WMU Cooley Law School who will give her Scholar Presentation and share the program's impact on her "journey to esquire."

www.journeytoesquire.com

info@journeytoesquire.com

@JourneytoEsquire

Dec 30, 202207:53
Abigail Dean | Board Member Interview - Journey to Esquire®️ The Podcast

Abigail Dean | Board Member Interview - Journey to Esquire®️ The Podcast

In this episode, we pass the mic to Abigail Dean to discuss joining the board.

Abigail Dean is an Assistant State Attorney at the 13th Judicial Circuit. She obtained by Juris Doctorate at Stetson University College of Law. Her undergraduate institution was the University of South Florida, where she obtained a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration. Her favorite hobbies are reading books, volunteering, and enjoying the company with friends and family. 

Fun fact: Her favorite thing to watch are 90s comedy shows.

www.journeytoesquire.com

info@journeytoesquire.com

@JourneytoEsquire

Dec 23, 202222:48
Krystle Cacci | Preparing for Appellate Practice

Krystle Cacci | Preparing for Appellate Practice

In this episode we pass the mic to Krystle Cacci to discuss developing an appellate practice.

Krystle is an Appellate Attorney, Statewide Guardian ad Litem Office. She is a graduate of Thomas M. Cooley Law School. Experienced policy analyst with a demonstrated history of working in the public and private sectors. Skilled in Public Sector Organizations, Analytical Skills, Government, Research and Writing, and Public Speaking. Strong business development professional graduated from Florida State University and the University of Miami.

Fun fact: Krystle's mother is also a lawyer and was a judge on the Florida 1st District Court of Appeals from 2010-2016.

www.journeytoesquire.com

info@journeytoesquire.com

@JourneytoEsq

Dec 18, 202228:25
Kim Lopater | Overcoming Challenges

Kim Lopater | Overcoming Challenges

In this episode, we pass the mic to Kim Lopater to discuss overcoming challenges.

Kimberly is an associate in the Casualty Department where she handles matters involving Personal Injury Protection (PIP) within the Fraud/Special Investigation Practice Group.   In May 2015, Kimberly received her Bachelor of Science degree from Florida State University, with a double major in Political Science and International Affairs. Kimberly earned her juris doctor from Stetson University College of Law, where she gained experience handling mortgage foreclosure and bankruptcy disputes as a judicial intern at the Sixth Judicial Circuit in St. Petersburg and the United States Bankruptcy Court in Tampa, and veterans’ appeals to the Department of Veterans Affairs for disability benefits at Stetson Law’s Veterans Law Institute.

Currently, Kimberly is an active member of the Hillsborough Association of Women Lawyers (HAWL) and serves as a member of HAWL’s inaugural Leadership Academy. She also participates as a pro bono attorney for the Wills for Heroes program with the Hillsborough County Bar Association and for the Defending Best Interests Project  with the Appellate Practice Section of the Florida Bar and the Guardian Ad Litem program.

Fun fact- Kim became a monthly donor to Tampa Humane Society, Wounded Warriors, and The National Park Foundation after she graduated law school because I wanted to make sure I always had a way to support charitable causes even if I could not commit my own time to help.

www.journeytoesquire.com

info@journeytoesquire.com

@JourneytoEsq

Dec 15, 202235:39
Annette V. Clarke Ph.D. - Developing Resilience

Annette V. Clarke Ph.D. - Developing Resilience

Trinidad-born, Brooklyn-raised, California-dreamin'! Dr. Annette V. Clarke is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in serious mental illness, diversity and community mental health, immigration and acculturation, mindfulness and meditation, and body positivity. Dr. Clarke earned her Ph.D. and M.S. degrees in Clinical Psychology at Palo Alto University. She holds an M.A. in Psychology with a concentration in Mental Health and Substance Use Counseling from The New School for Social Research and a B.A. in Psychology from New York University. Dr. Clarke works across the developmental lifespan providing various psychological services focusing on healing, wellness, and recovery. She’s passionate about mentorship and provides supervision and training to doctoral trainees. A published author, researcher, and lecturer, her work includes Black and Black immigrant mental health, identity development, immigration and acculturation, and cultural competency pedagogy. Promoting mental health and de-stigmatizing mental illness is her life’s mission, and she shares this message with professional and lay audiences alike. Dr. Clarke loves science fiction/fantasy, horses, plants, crochet, bubble-blowing, and spending time with friends and family.

Connect with Dr. Clarke on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Clubhouse.

Dec 02, 202233:28
Tisheana "Sheana" Burton Student Reflection - Journey to Esquire®️ Scholarship & Leadership Program

Tisheana "Sheana" Burton Student Reflection - Journey to Esquire®️ Scholarship & Leadership Program

Tisheana Burton is a graduate of WMU Cooley Law School and Class of 2022 Journey to Esquire® Intern.   

The Journey to Esquire: Scholarship & Leadership Program provides academic and professional development for students interested in becoming lawyers. The journey to esquire is a long one, but we are here to help! ​ We are essential for diverse law students who need financial and emotional support because we provide cash scholarships, mentors, and training that help them pass the bar exam, obtain employment with competitive and powerful employers, and obtain leadership positions in professional associations. 

www.journeytoesquire.com info@journeytoesquire.com @JourneytoEsq

Nov 18, 202207:01