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    Support The Locals with Suzanne Mindlin Suzie Mindlin, a 2002 TLC graduate from California, highlights the power of working on your own cases alongside peers at the three-week college and in local working groups—vibrant hubs that have flourished into engines for justice across the U.S. She welcomes lawyers new to TLC training, emphasizing how these collaborative forums foster rapid skill development and mutual support. Suzie also dives into the art of scene setting, explaining why the protagonist must be fully “there” and how transporting jurors into that precise moment—down to every detail—creates an immersive experience that makes your story resonate and stick.

    The “Currency” of the Courtroom with Render Freeman Render C. Freeman—2015 TLC graduate and faculty member since 2018—reflects on his fourth “Courage to Ask” program, where a psychodrama exercise helped participants uncover how personal biases and family history influence the dollar values they assign to cases. He explains why “emotion is the currency of the courtroom” and how psychodramatic tools heighten lawyers’ emotional competence—from depositions and mediations to cross-examination and closing arguments. Render also previews the upcoming three-week flagship course at Camp Dawson, WV (Oct 4–27; apply by May 6), where attendees immerse themselves in psychodrama, “discovering the story,” jury selection, and all core trial skills.

    Immersive Advocacy: Colby Vokey on the 3‑Week Trial Lawyers College Colby Vokey previews the upcoming three‑week flagship program at Camp Dawson, WV (Oct. 4–27; apply by May 15), and explains why it’s a game changer for trial lawyers. Learn how the intensive psychodrama kickoff and the “discovering the story” method sharpen listening, cross‑examination, and narrative skills—transforming both your practice and your personal confidence. Join Colby for insights on why going “all in” for three weeks will reset your approach to every case.

    Deep Trust with Amanda Harber Amanda Harber—a 2017 Trial Lawyers College graduate, F Warrior board president, and former public defender—previews the “In Defense of the Damned” seminar (June 9–13 at IU Maurer Law). She walks us through the week’s psychodrama kickoff, powerful listening exercises that deepen attorney–client trust, and a master-class on cross-examination featuring exonerees like Darryl Burton. Amanda also highlights how TLC builds fellowship among often-isolated criminal defense attorneys, and shares updates on the F Warriors board, strategic planning, and opportunities to get involved.

    Indigent Representation with Stephen Demik Stephen Demik, a 2008 TLC graduate and co‑lead for the upcoming Indigent Representation online course, unveils the agenda and shines a spotlight on the often‑underrated art of direct examination—likening its neglect to working with only half your muscles. With just 20 seats available, participants will receive intensely detailed, hands‑on training in real time. Don’t miss this opportunity to refine your TLC techniques under expert guidance and transform your courtroom impact.

    Fellowship with Eric Davis Eric Davis, co-lead for Defense of the Damned at Indiana University - Maurer School of Law and a board member of the Trial Lawyers College, sheds light on the challenges of practicing criminal defense in death penalty cases. Eric explains how the upcoming course focuses on the art of cross-examination and how TLC offers a rare space for transparency and fellowship among defense lawyers who often work in isolation. He also explores the role of psychodrama in enhancing trial skills, emphasizing that the supportive community at TLC empowers practitioners to navigate even the toughest cases.

    3 Week College with Ron and Paula Estefan Ron Estefan, a member of the Trial Lawyers College Board of Directors, along with Paula Estefan, introduces the upcoming 3-Week College program set for October at Camp Dawson, West Virginia. This immersive training retreat offers individual rooms and bathrooms, provided meals, and a host of activities. They discuss the importance of this intensive program for enhancing trial skills, personal practice, relationships, and overall life, urging participants to "go all in" to fully benefit from this unique educational experience.

    Human Connections with Jessica McLaughlin and Brett Dunn Marines Jessica McLaughlin and Brett Dunn gear up for an upcoming trial while attending the week-long Trial Skills Foundation Course at Mo Ranch. In this episode, they compare and contrast the nuances of civilian and military court trials, discussing the strategic importance of understanding witnesses' mindsets through TLC techniques. Jessica and Brett emphasize the need to balance rigorous trial preparation with the flexibility to bring a human touch to their proceedings, ensuring that both direct examinations and cross-examinations are effectively informed and shaped by these insights.

    A Different Person with Scott McCann Scott McCann, a first-time student at the Trial Skills Foundation with TLC, describes his first experience with psychodrama as a protagonist. In this episode, Scott discusses how the process of role reversal and exploring diverse perspectives enriches his understanding of jury dynamics. He delves into how facts, experiences, and varied viewpoints shape juror perceptions and influence their interpretations of case facts, highlighting the transformative power of psychodrama in legal training.

    Quick Vulnerability with Allison Mahoney Allison Mahoney, a first-time attendee at the Trial Skills Foundation Course at Mo Ranch, shares her initial impressions of the Trial Lawyers College and her experiences with psychodrama. In this episode, Allison discusses the rapid pace of the course that uniquely facilitates vulnerability and trust among participants, crucial for deep connections. She also delves into the importance of truly connecting with clients to effectively tell their stories by painting a complete picture of their lives, emphasizing how this approach can transform legal advocacy.

    Constant Advocacy with Patrick McLain Patrick McLain, a 2012 TLC graduate, shares his journey through a challenging three-year-long sexual assault case that recently ended in dismissal. In this episode, Patrick recounts specific instances where employing TLC tactics in court led to both setbacks and successes. He provides a candid look at what it means to be on your feet, advocating fiercely in the courtroom, and the lessons learned from when things don’t go as planned and when they triumphantly succeed.

    Challenging Spaces with Ron Estefan Ron Estefan, Vice President of the Trial Lawyers College Board of Directors and a 2005 TLC graduate, shares insights from his recent victory in a premises negligence case. This episode dives into how Ron applied TLC methods to navigate lacking conditions and restrictive courtroom environments effectively. Emphasizing a proactive approach, Ron discusses the strategy of "Don't ask, just do," waiting for intervention from opposing counsel or the judge rather than seeking permission. He also gives a brief overview of a powerful listening exercise used in his practice.

    The Courage to Ask with Maren Chaloupka and John Sloan Maren Chaloupka, the current TLC president, and John Sloan, her predecessor, delve into the nuanced TLC approach to advocating for fair compensation in legal settlements and verdicts taught at The Courage to Ask TLC event. They explore the critical process of determining an appropriate sum for clients and discuss the complexities involved in assigning monetary value to invaluable losses. This episode examines the inherent challenges of asking for financial compensation in cases where life is priceless, within our imperfect legal system, emphasizing the need for conviction and strategy in the courtroom.

    Reenactments with Matthew Martin Matthew Martin, a 2019 TLC graduate, joins Rafe to discuss his reasons for applying to the TLC program and the impactful first trial he undertook after graduation. Matthew shares how he immediately implemented the methods learned at TLC, focusing on two powerful reenactment stories—one during practice and another in trial—that significantly influenced the outcomes. This episode delves into the transformative impact of TLC's teaching methods, illustrating how they can dramatically enhance legal advocacy.

    Dirty Hands with Eric Ganci Eric Ganci, TLC staff member since 2018, discusses a unique blend of techniques he uses to enhance focus and grounding. In a memorable cross examination session, Eric had a student reverse roles with a client, immersing them fully in the courtroom scenario. Listen as Eric details his experience with working and practicing skills through TLC methods.

    Authentic with Patricia Anderson- TLC 7 Step Program Patricia Anderson provides a comprehensive overview of the Trial Lawyers College's 7-step program, an alternative pathway to graduation. This episode delves into the specifics of the program, outlining the importance and objectives of each step. Patricia explains how these steps are designed to enhance the skills of trial lawyers through personal growth and skill development, ensuring they are well-equipped to advocate with empathy and effectiveness. Tune in to gain insights into this transformative educational journey.

    Honor the Loss with Ross LeBlanc Learn how Ross, a civil plaintiff attorney and four-time regional TLC attendee, used his trial skills to secure justice in a devastating DWI case involving the loss of a six-year-old child after Thanksgiving 2022. This episode delves into how Ross prepared for the trial alongside the grieving parents, employing the powerful techniques and strategies he honed through his TLC training. Tune in to discover the profound impact of empathetic legal practice and the difference it can make in seeking accountability and closure.

    Trial Skills Foundation at Mo Ranch with Ron Estefan Ron and Rafe revisit their enriching experiences at Mo Ranch during the TSF course, where they collaborated on cases and refined their trial skills. In this episode, they delve into the highlights of their time together, emphasizing the fantastic opportunities for growth and learning. They also explore the concept of psychodrama, discussing how it enhances the practice of law by demonstrating the truth, rather than just telling it. Tune in to hear how these seasoned professionals use innovative techniques to elevate their legal expertise. Next Trial Skills Foundation course is March 11-16, 2025,

    Share The Gift with Rafe Foreman Join our host, Mark Wagner, as he interviews Rafe Foreman, who shares a moving story from a recent mediation. Rafe recounts how a heartfelt song about grace and forgiveness, sung by his clients, profoundly impacted both him and the opposing counsel. The defendants were so touched that they insisted on joining and listening to the song again, leading to a rare and emotional moment of unity. Tune in to explore the power of empathy and the unexpected ways it can manifest in legal settings.

    F-Warrior Retreat with Cambry Bristow Come and listen to Cambry Bristow detail the fantastic work accomplished at the F-Warrior's retreat in Nebraska City, Nebraska. She also foreshadows a coming proposal that will be published in the Warrior magazine detailing the future plans for the Trial Lawyer's College. After listening to Cambry tell about the excellent retreat, you might find yourself regretting that you missed it.
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