What happens when justice is truly accessible to all? In this episode of Notes to My (Legal) Self, we dive into "Courts Belong to the People" with Sonja Ebron, CEO of Courtroom5, as part of The Future Belongs to Builders series. Sonja, a PhD electrical engineer and former college professor, shares her unique journey into the legal world after representing herself in court numerous times. She founded Courtroom5 to empower people to navigate the legal system, addressing the pressing issue of access to justice for those unable to afford legal representation.

Sonja’s insights take us deep into the barriers that prevent fair access to justice, including the complexities of legal procedures, power imbalances in the courtroom, and how strategic litigation can make all the difference. She also discusses how her platform, Courtroom5, helps pro se litigants (those representing themselves) overcome these challenges, offering tools, resources, and education to help them stand up to opposing parties, many of whom are represented by experienced lawyers.

This episode will provide you with:

• A deeper understanding of the access to justice crisis and its impact on underrepresented communities.
• Insights into how non-lawyers can use litigation strategically to achieve their goals.
• An exploration of the role of justice tech in breaking down barriers to the legal system.
• Practical solutions for leveling the playing field in court.

Sonja also touches on the regulatory barriers like UPL (Unauthorized Practice of Law) that slow down legal innovation, and the potential of AI to improve access to justice. Whether you're a legal professional, a technologist, or someone passionate about making the legal system more equitable, this episode offers critical perspectives on reshaping the future of law.

Key Learning Outcomes:

• Recognize the power imbalance in the courtroom and how it disproportionately affects unrepresented individuals.
• Understand the role of justice tech and AI in expanding access to legal resources and education.
• Learn strategies for self-represented litigants to navigate complex legal procedures and use litigation to their advantage.
• Reflect on the regulatory changes needed to foster innovation and make the legal system more accessible.

Don't miss this engaging discussion with Sonja Ebron, a true advocate for access to justice. Join us and learn how we can make courts truly belong to the people.

What happens when Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) is more than just a buzzword? In this episode of Notes to My (Legal) Self, we dive into "Unlocking Success: Examining the Business Imperative of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion" with Malobi Achike, Founder-CEO of DEI Directive. Together, we explore the essential role DEI plays in transforming businesses and driving innovation.

Malobi shares her personal journey, from law to founding a company dedicated to helping organizations embrace DEI as a strategic advantage. This episode redefines the business case for DEI, illustrating why it’s not just an ethical obligation but a critical component for organizational success and sustainability. Whether you’re a founder, executive, or legal professional, you’ll gain actionable insights on how to implement DEI effectively and navigate the challenges that often come with it.

In this conversation, we break down how DEI can improve workplace culture, foster innovation, and give businesses a competitive edge. We also address common misconceptions, like the idea that DEI compromises hiring standards, and discuss practical strategies for overcoming barriers to DEI initiatives.

Key Learning Outcomes:

• Understand the tangible benefits DEI brings to businesses, including increased innovation and better financial performance.
• Learn how to strategically integrate DEI into business practices and measure its success.
• Discover how to overcome common obstacles to DEI and foster a workplace culture that promotes inclusion and belonging.
• Recognize the value of data-driven approaches to track and enhance DEI initiatives within an organization.
• Understand how DEI impacts employee retention, engagement, and overall business growth.

Don’t miss this critical discussion on how to unlock your organization’s true potential through DEI. Whether you’re looking to attract top talent, boost retention, or drive better business outcomes, this episode provides the insights and tools you need to lead with purpose.

What happens when you’re building a company while managing mental illness? In this episode of Notes to My (Legal) Self, we continue our Future Belongs to Builders series with a deeply personal and empowering conversation, “Building Companies With Mental Illness,” featuring Collin Williams, founder and chairman of New Era ADR. Collin shares his journey as a lawyer turned entrepreneur, offering invaluable insights into how mental illness can both challenge and fuel success in the high-pressure world of startups.

In this raw and insightful discussion, Collin opens up about his own experiences living with depression and how he’s reframed it as a unique motivator rather than a weakness. With a focus on practical coping strategies, from therapy to structured routines, Collin explains how mental illness doesn’t have to be a barrier but can instead be a source of strength. His candid reflections will resonate with anyone who’s ever felt the pressure to succeed while navigating mental health challenges.

This episode is a powerful reminder that entrepreneurship and mental health are not mutually exclusive. Collin offers a roadmap for founders living with mental illness, showing how to manage stress, maintain resilience, and build a company with the right support systems in place. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, legal professional, or someone curious about mental health in high-stakes careers, this episode offers a compassionate and honest perspective on the intersection of mental illness and business.

Key Learning Outcomes:

• Understand how mental illness can serve as both a challenge and a unique strength in entrepreneurship.
• Learn about the importance of routine and structure in managing mental health while running a company.
• Explore how Collin reframed living with depression from a burden to a source of resilience and strength.
• Gain insights into how being open about mental illness can help destigmatize the conversation and encourage others to seek help.
• Discover practical strategies for balancing the stresses of startup life with mental health, from therapy to medication and community support.
• Learn the importance of transparency with business partners, employees, and investors regarding mental health.

Collin’s message is clear: mental illness doesn’t define you, but how you live with it can shape your success. Join us for a conversation that breaks the silence and empowers entrepreneurs to thrive, not in spite of their challenges, but because of them.