• 28 minutes 27 seconds
    MCLE ThisWeek | S2 E14: Inside MCLE: Building Your Professional Identity Through Teaching and Leadership

    Mark shares a candid look at the nonlinear path that led him to become Executive Director of MCLE, highlighting how resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to pursue new opportunities shaped his career. From working in finance and higher education to building a solo law practice and teaching for over three decades, Mark emphasizes that professional growth often comes from unexpected turns rather than a single defined path. 

     

    He also provides insight into the inner workings of MCLE, explaining how the organization relies on a vast network of dedicated volunteers to deliver high-quality programming and resources to the legal community. With thousands of years of collective experience contributed by volunteer attorneys, MCLE’s model is rooted in practical, experience-driven education rather than traditional academic methods.

     

    With a focus on the future, Mark discusses:

    • Why embracing career pivots and setbacks can lead to long-term professional growth
    • How MCLE’s volunteer-driven model creates unmatched practical value for attorneys
    • What distinguishes continuing legal education from traditional legal training
    • How innovation, including scenario-based learning and new programming models, is shaping the future of MCLE
    • Why teaching and contributing to CLE programming strengthens communication, presentation skills, and professional reputation
    • How initiatives like the Dive Fellowship aim to develop the next generation of MCLE contributors

     

    He also reflects on the broader mission of MCLE, including efforts to expand access through scholarships and fundraising initiatives like the Founders Day campaign, which supports attorneys who may not otherwise have access to continuing legal education resources.

    Connect with us on social!

     

    Important Note:
    Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc. (MCLE) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to providing high-quality, practical continuing legal education for the legal community. As part of its educational mission, MCLE presents a wide range of viewpoints and instructional content intended solely for educational purposes.

    The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by individual participants in this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of MCLE, its Board of Trustees, staff, or affiliated institutions. Inclusion of any material or commentary does not constitute an endorsement of any position on any issue by MCLE.

    23 April 2026, 9:00 am
  • 27 minutes 12 seconds
    MCLE ThisWeek | S2 E13: From Law School to Fenway: Sports Law Careers with Mandy Petrillo and Cameron Hammel of Fenway Sports Group

    Mandy and Cameron break down what it actually takes to build a career in sports law and why there is no single path in. Mandy highlights the role of persistence, networking, and starting in a non-attorney position, while Cameron shares how a traditional law firm path and a strategic in-house pivot led her to Fenway Sports Group. They also challenge common misconceptions about the field, explaining that their work focuses on commercial contracts, sponsorships, intellectual property, and business operations rather than player deals, and closely mirrors a traditional in-house legal role.

     

    With practical insight for attorneys and law students, Mandy and Cameron discuss:

    • Why there is no single “right” path into sports law — and how different experiences can position you to stand out
    • How networking, persistence, and timing play a critical role in breaking into competitive industries
    • Why strong contract drafting skills and broad legal experience are essential for in-house roles
    • Why business judgment and a “find a way to yes” approach lead to stronger client relationships
    • Why sports lawyers are often generalists who must navigate multiple areas of law simultaneously
    • How building trust with internal stakeholders leads to better, more proactive legal support

     

    They reflect on the evolving landscape of women in sports law, highlighting increased representation and leadership in recent years, as well as the collaborative nature of in-house work. Legal teams work closely with marketing, sales, HR, and operations to support broader business goals. Ultimately, Mandy and Cameron emphasize that success depends on being a well-rounded, business-savvy lawyer who can adapt, solve problems, and contribute beyond purely legal analysis.

     

    Featured Guests

    Mandy Petrillo — Assistant General Counsel at Fenway Sports Group, Mandy has spent nearly two decades with the organization, supporting the Boston Red Sox and related entities across a wide range of commercial, intellectual property, and business matters.

    Cameron Hammel — Senior Counsel at Fenway Sports Group, Cameron brings experience from both a major law firm and in-house entertainment company, advising on commercial contracts, technology agreements, and business operations within the organization.

    Connect with us on social!

     

    Important Note:
    Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc. (MCLE) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to providing high-quality, practical continuing legal education for the legal community. As part of its educational mission, MCLE presents a wide range of viewpoints and instructional content intended solely for educational purposes.

    The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by individual participants in this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of MCLE, its Board of Trustees, staff, or affiliated institutions. Inclusion of any material or commentary does not constitute an endorsement of any position on any issue by MCLE.

    26 March 2026, 9:00 am
  • 28 minutes 37 seconds
    MCLE ThisWeek | S2 E12: The Art of Objections and the Business of Law with Mike Sams of Bowditch & Dewey

    Mike shares how his firm’s transition to Bowditch & Dewey marked a strategic shift toward greater depth, stability, and long-term growth. He reflects on the realities of law firm mergers, the importance of cultural fit, and why thoughtful, deliberate decision-making matters when navigating professional change. At the same time, he explores what it truly takes to master trial advocacy — not just knowing the rules of evidence but developing the judgment to use them effectively in real time.

     

    With practical insight and courtroom perspective, Mike discusses:

    • Why choosing the right professional “fit” matters more than chasing greener grass
    • How expanded resources and stability strengthen both lawyers and clients
    • Why objections require judgment — not just knowledge of the rules
    • When restraint in the courtroom is more powerful than constant objection
    • How experiential learning builds real courtroom confidence and much more

     

    Mike emphasizes that becoming a strong trial lawyer is an iterative process — one that requires repetition, reflection, and real courtroom experience. He underscores that continuing legal education is not simply a requirement, but a professional obligation and opportunity to refine craft, build community, and elevate standards across the bar.

     

    Featured Guest

    Mike Sams — Litigation Practice Area Co-Leader at Bowditch & Dewey, Mike is a seasoned trial lawyer and business litigator serving companies throughout New England. He represents clients in complex construction and business disputes before state and federal courts and arbitration forums. A respected advocate and risk management advisor, Mike also chairs MCLE’s Making Objections Workshop and serves on MCLE’s Board of Trustees.

    Connect with us on social!

     

    Important Note:
    Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc. (MCLE) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to providing high-quality, practical continuing legal education for the legal community. As part of its educational mission, MCLE presents a wide range of viewpoints and instructional content intended solely for educational purposes.

    The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by individual participants in this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of MCLE, its Board of Trustees, staff, or affiliated institutions. Inclusion of any material or commentary does not constitute an endorsement of any position on any issue by MCLE.

    26 February 2026, 10:00 am
  • 28 minutes 27 seconds
    MCLE ThisWeek | S2 E11: Client Experience as a Growth Strategy: Turning Every Client Interaction into a Referral and Reputation Builder with Chris Earley

    Chris shares how the pandemic prompted a fundamental shift in how he viewed his role as a lawyer — from focusing primarily on results to becoming deeply intentional about how clients feel at every stage of representation. He explains why client service begins at intake, long before a fee agreement is signed, and why firms that ignore the client experience do so at their own risk.

     

    With honesty, humor, and concrete examples, Chris discusses:

    • Why client experience starts at the first phone call — and how tone, empathy, and responsiveness shape trust
    • How over-communication beats silence, even when there are no case updates
    • Using client portals, automation, and surveys to improve communication without increasing attorney workload
    • Turning clients into “raving fans” who drive referrals long after a case ends
    • Why unhappy clients rarely complain directly — but always remember poor communication
    • How brutal honesty, delivered with care, strengthens client relationships
    • The parallels between law firms and service businesses like restaurants and Amazon
    • How improving client experience benefits not only clients, but also staff morale and firm culture

     

    Chris emphasizes that most of the most impactful improvements to client experience are low-cost or free, requiring intention rather than technology — and that firms who prioritize service see fewer bar complaints, better reviews, and stronger reputations over time.

     

    Featured Guest

    Chris Earley, Esq. — Boston personal injury attorney and firm owner with nearly 20 years of experience. Chris focuses on client-centered practice design, communication systems, and building law firms that grow through trust, service, and referrals.

     

    Links and Resources:

    MCLE Online Pass

    Earley Law Group Injury Lawyers

    Connect with us on social!

     

    Important Note:
    Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc. (MCLE) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to providing high-quality, practical continuing legal education for the legal community. As part of its educational mission, MCLE presents a wide range of viewpoints and instructional content intended solely for educational purposes.

    The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by individual participants in this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of MCLE, its Board of Trustees, staff, or affiliated institutions. Inclusion of any material or commentary does not constitute an endorsement of any position on any issue by MCLE.

    8 January 2026, 10:00 am
  • 23 minutes 45 seconds
    MCLE ThisWeek | S2 E10: Borders, Rights, and the Rule of Law: What Every Lawyer Needs to Know About ICE with Robin Nice

    In this episode:

    Host Bruce Richard sits down with immigration attorney Robin Nice for an in-depth discussion about the legal and human realities of ICE enforcement in the United States. With over a decade of experience representing asylum seekers and families facing deportation, Robin explains how attorneys can better understand clients’ rights and the rapidly changing landscape of immigration policy.

    With expertise and passion, Robin unpacks:

    • What ICE actually is — and how its authority differs from local police
    • Common misconceptions about warrants, detentions, and client rights
    • How enforcement priorities have changed under different administrations
    • What to do when a client is detained — from filing bond motions to habeas petitions
    • Due process breakdowns inside the immigration system
    • How federal district courts can serve as a safeguard against overreach
    • The human cost of a system that leaves families in fear, uncertainty, and legal limbo

    Robin also discusses the urgent need for legal reform, the impact of current policies on asylum seekers, and the moral and constitutional questions every lawyer should be asking about immigration enforcement today.

    Featured Guest:
    Robin Nice, Esq. — Partner at McHaffey & Nice, a Boston-based firm focused exclusively on immigration law, specializing in asylum and humanitarian relief. Robin brings 13 years of experience advocating for individuals and families navigating the U.S. immigration system.

    Links and Resources:

    MCLE Online Pass

    McHaffey & Nice

    Connect with us on social!

     

    Important Note:
    Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc. (MCLE) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to providing high-quality, practical continuing legal education for the legal community. As part of its educational mission, MCLE presents a wide range of viewpoints and instructional content intended solely for educational purposes.

    The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by individual participants in this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of MCLE, its Board of Trustees, staff, or affiliated institutions. Inclusion of any material or commentary does not constitute an endorsement of any position on any issue by MCLE.

    13 November 2025, 10:00 am
  • 17 minutes 15 seconds
    MCLE ThisWeek | S2 E9: Likes, Followers, Clients: Growing Your Law Practice on Social Media with Tyler Summers

    In this episode:

    Host Bruce Richard interviews Tyler Summers, a Massachusetts family law attorney who has grown a strong social media following by producing engaging, informative, and often humorous content about divorce, prenups, and family law. Tyler offers practical advice for attorneys who are curious about using social media to expand their reach without compromising professionalism.

    With openness, humor, and hard-earned experience, Tyler shares his thoughts on:

    • Finding balance between professionalism and relatability on platforms like Instagram and TikTok
    • The biggest misconceptions about social media marketing for lawyers — including the myth that followers instantly translate to clients
    • Handling viral content responsibly, including lessons learned from controversial posts
    • Producing high-quality, consistent content that reflects your brand and values
    • Time management and team support — how outsourcing editing and production helped him stay focused on client work
    • Doing due diligence before hiring a social media marketing company
    • The long game of growth — how patience and persistence lead to genuine engagement and opportunities

     

    Tyler’s insights offer attorneys practical takeaways for developing an authentic online presence that supports, rather than distracts their legal careers.

    Featured Guest:
    Tyler Summers, Esq. — Founder of Summers Family Law, based in Needham with a satellite office in Boston’s Back Bay. Tyler focuses exclusively on family law, including divorce and prenuptial agreements, and has built a following of over 50,000 on Instagram by blending humor, insight, and education in his legal content.

    Links and Resources:

    MCLE Online Pass

    Tyler' Instagram

    Connect with us on social!

     

    Important Note:
    Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc. (MCLE) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to providing high-quality, practical continuing legal education for the legal community. As part of its educational mission, MCLE presents a wide range of viewpoints and instructional content intended solely for educational purposes.

    The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by individual participants in this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of MCLE, its Board of Trustees, staff, or affiliated institutions. Inclusion of any material or commentary does not constitute an endorsement of any position on any issue by MCLE.

    16 October 2025, 3:34 pm
  • 31 minutes 19 seconds
    MCLE ThisWeek | S2 E8: Top 5 from the Bench: A Conversation with Judges Beverly Cannone and Catherine Ham

    In this episode:

    Host Bruce Richard sits down with Superior Court Judges Beverly Cannone and Catherine Ham for an engaging and positive discussion about trial practice from the judges’ perspective. Rather than focusing on common pitfalls, they highlight the five things attorneys do in the courtroom that they truly value.

     

    With humor, candor, and decades of combined courtroom experience, Judges Cannone and Ham offer practical advice on:

    • Why emotional intelligence and civility matter as much as legal knowledge
    • The importance of honesty, candor, and building a reputation for integrity
    • How preparation — especially for younger lawyers — sets the foundation for success
    • The role of professionalism and formality in establishing credibility in court
    • Respecting jurors’ time and maintaining focus on the client’s case

     

    This conversation provides attorneys with concrete, real-world guidance to strengthen advocacy, build trust with judges, and enhance courtroom effectiveness.

     

    Featured Guests:

    Judge Beverly Cannone, Associate Justice of the Massachusetts Superior Court, longtime public defender, and veteran trial advocacy teacher at Harvard Law School and MCLE.

    Judge Catherine Ham, Associate Justice of the Superior Court and former Assistant District Attorney in Suffolk County’s Homicide Unit, with years of trial experience in criminal and civil law.

     

    Links and Resources:

    MCLE Online Pass

    Connect with us on social!

     

    Important Note:
    Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc. (MCLE) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to providing high-quality, practical continuing legal education for the legal community. As part of its educational mission, MCLE presents a wide range of viewpoints and instructional content intended solely for educational purposes.

    The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by individual participants in this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of MCLE, its Board of Trustees, staff, or affiliated institutions. Inclusion of any material or commentary does not constitute an endorsement of any position on any issue by MCLE.

    18 September 2025, 9:00 am
  • 24 minutes 34 seconds
    MCLE ThisWeek | S2 E7: MassHealth Myths: Separating Fact from Fiction with Brian E. Barreira

    In this Episode:

    Host Bruce Richard sits down with elder law attorney and MCLE author Brian E. Barreira to separate fact from fiction in long-term care and MassHealth planning. In a wide-ranging discussion packed with practical insights, Brian highlights three critical issues that all legal practitioners, and their clients should better understand:

    • Why going on MassHealth doesn’t mean receiving inferior nursing home care
    • The surprising benefits of probate for married couples and how it can protect assets
    • When putting a house or assets into a trust helps—and when it can actually hurt

    With clarity and candor, Brian challenges conventional estate planning advice and explains why thoughtful, individualized strategies are essential when planning for long-term care costs in Massachusetts.

    Featured Guest:

    Brian E. Barreira is a nationally respected elder law and estate planning attorney based in Plymouth, Massachusetts. With decades of experience, he has authored numerous articles and leads MCLE’s flagship publication Elder and Disability Law in Massachusetts, where he also serves as chief editor. Brian’s thoughtful, nuanced approach helps clients and practitioners alike navigate the often confusing intersection of healthcare planning, tax consequences, and legal safeguards.

    Links and Resources:

    MCLE Online Pass

    Elder and Disability Law in Massachusetts (MCLE Publication)

    Brian E. Barreira, Attorney at Law – Official Website

    Connect with us on social!

     

    Important Note:
    Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc. (MCLE) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to providing high-quality, practical continuing legal education for the legal community. As part of its educational mission, MCLE presents a wide range of viewpoints and instructional content intended solely for educational purposes.

    The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by individual participants in this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of MCLE, its Board of Trustees, staff, or affiliated institutions. Inclusion of any material or commentary does not constitute an endorsement of any position on any issue by MCLE.

    17 July 2025, 9:00 am
  • 24 minutes 51 seconds
    MCLE ThisWeek | S2 E6: When 50/50 Doesn’t Cut It: Equity v. Equality in Divorce with Jonathan Fields

    In This Episode:

    Host Bruce Richard sits down with seasoned family law attorney Jonathan P. Fields to explore how the concept of fairness in divorce often requires more than a 50/50 split. Together, they discuss:

    • When and why “equal” doesn’t always mean “fair” in asset division
    • The impact of trusts, inheritances, and premarital assets
    • Conduct-based arguments in high-conflict divorces
    • Creative strategies for navigating inequitable circumstances
    • The evolving influence of the Alimony Reform Act on property division

     

    Featured Guest:

    Jonathan P. Fields is a founding partner of Fields & Dennis LLP in Wellesley, Massachusetts, where he focuses on complex family law matters including divorce, asset division, and alimony. A recognized voice in the field, Jonathan frequently presents at MCLE and other legal education forums, offering practical guidance on equitable distribution, financial strategies in divorce, and ethical advocacy.

    With more than 30 years of experience and a passion for exploring the human side of legal conflict, Jonathan brings both analytical rigor and thoughtful perspective to this often-contentious area of practice.

     

    Links and Resources:

    MCLE Online Pass

    Fields & Dennis LLP – Official Website

    Identifying & Proving When 50/50 Isn't Fair

    M.G.L. Chapter 208, Section 34 – Division of Property

    Alimony Reform Act of 2011

     

    Connect with us on social!

     

    Important Note:
    Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc. (MCLE) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to providing high-quality, practical continuing legal education for the legal community. As part of its educational mission, MCLE presents a wide range of viewpoints and instructional content intended solely for educational purposes.

    The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by individual participants in this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of MCLE, its Board of Trustees, staff, or affiliated institutions. Inclusion of any material or commentary does not constitute an endorsement of any position on any issue by MCLE.

    19 June 2025, 9:00 am
  • 24 minutes 7 seconds
    MCLE ThisWeek | S2 E5: Borders, Rights, and the Rule of Law: Immigration Basics Every Lawyer Needs to Know with Rachel M. Self

    In This Episode:
    Host Bruce Richard sits down with renowned attorney Rachel M. Self to explore the fast-evolving landscape of immigration law in the United States and what every lawyer should know to be a better advocate for non-citizen clients. Together, they discuss:

    • Navigating emergency ICE detention and court wins
    • Responding to the Martha’s Vineyard migrant flights
    • Understanding immigration status categories every lawyer should know

    Featured Guest:

    Rachel M. Self is a nationally recognized immigration and criminal defense attorney practicing in Boston. As the founder of Rachel M. Self, P.C., she focuses on complex deportation defense, post-conviction relief, and crimmigration matters. Fluent in Spanish, Rachel has appeared as a legal analyst on CNN and Fox News and was instrumental in mobilizing legal support for the 49 migrants flown to Martha’s Vineyard in 2022.

    Her advocacy in that case earned her national recognition, including Honorable Mention as a Bostonian of the Year by The Boston Globe Magazine. Rachel is also a frequent speaker for MCLE, AILA, and judicial education programs across the country.

    Links and Resources:

    MCLE Online Pass

    Rachel M. Self P.C. - Boston

    National Immigration Alliance

    Connect with us on social!

     

    Important Note:
    Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc. (MCLE) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to providing high-quality, practical continuing legal education for the legal community. As part of its educational mission, MCLE presents a wide range of viewpoints and instructional content intended solely for educational purposes.

    The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by individual participants in this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of MCLE, its Board of Trustees, staff, or affiliated institutions. Inclusion of any material or commentary does not constitute an endorsement of any position on any issue by MCLE.

    15 May 2025, 9:00 am
  • 19 minutes 35 seconds
    MCLE ThisWeek | S2 E4: New Lawyer Diaries: Insights and Lessons Learned with Hope Simas

    In This Episode:
    Host Bruce sits down with family law attorney Hope Simas from Kates & Barlow to discuss:

    • What it was like handling her first deposition and contested hearing
    • How new lawyers can navigate different partner expectations
    • The reality of courtroom nerves, client reactions, and finding confidence
    • Her experience as ARC (Attorneys Representing Children) counsel
    • Favorite de-stressing methods—plus a deep dive into cooking ceviche

    Featured Guest:

    Hope Simas

    Don’t Miss:

    • Tips for building early-career confidence in law
    • What it’s really like to represent a child in family court
    • Hope’s reflections on rewarding custody cases and how she resets after tough days

    Links and Resources:

    MCLE Online Pass

    Connect with us on social!

     

    Important Note:
    Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc. (MCLE) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to providing high-quality, practical continuing legal education for the legal community. As part of its educational mission, MCLE presents a wide range of viewpoints and instructional content intended solely for educational purposes.

    The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by individual participants in this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of MCLE, its Board of Trustees, staff, or affiliated institutions. Inclusion of any material or commentary does not constitute an endorsement of any position on any issue by MCLE.

    17 April 2025, 9:00 am
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