Explore every episode of the podcast The Advocate Next Door

Craig Gaver shares insights into his work in international arbitration, judgment enforcement, and sovereign immunity. Craig reflects on his career journey, from political science to international law, including his inspiring role in a wrongful conviction case featured in Netflix’s The Innocence Files. The discussion also highlights career advice for aspiring lawyers and the importance of balance and self-care in the demanding legal field.

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Guest Info:

Craig Gaver is a seasoned attorney with over a decade of international dispute resolution experience, representing clients across industries like energy, mining, infrastructure, and finance. Craig is currently Counsel at Bluestone PC. His practice spans arbitration, litigation, enforcement of judgments, and issues involving sovereign immunity, economic sanctions, and public international law.

Website: https://www.bluestonelaw.com/team/craig-d-gaver

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craig-gaver-96005b191/

Christine Falcicchio is an attorney, entrepreneur, and global co-chair of the Campaign for Greener Arbitrations. Christine shares her inspiring journey, from reconnecting with her Italian roots to leading an international initiative aimed at reducing the carbon footprint of arbitration practices. We dive into her advocacy for paperless and eco-friendly methods, the evolution of sustainability in the legal profession, and how her company, Sopra Legal, is revolutionizing legal submissions with interactive hyperlinking. Christine also highlights the importance of personal and professional sustainability, urging the global legal community to take the pledge for greener arbitrations. This is a must-listen for anyone passionate about innovation, environmental responsibility, and creating lasting impact.

Special Guest Host: Christina Poehlitz, Global Policy Advisor at Arnold & Porter, and former guest from Episode 18

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Guest Info:

Christine Falcicchio is an attorney, entrepreneur, and sustainability advocate dedicated to transforming legal practice through technology and environmental responsibility. As the founder of Sopra Legal, she specializes in creating hyperlinked interactive eBriefs that modernize legal submissions. Christine is also a leader in the Campaign for Greener Arbitrations, combining her passion for innovation with her commitment to promoting sustainability in the legal field.

Website: https://sopralegal.com/about-us/

Email: hello@sopralegal.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christine-falcicchio/

Pledge to sign the Campaign for Greener Arbitrations: https://www.greenerarbitrations.com/sign-green-pledge

Christina Poehlitz, an international policy advisor at Arnold & Porter Kaye Scholar LLP, helps us demystify the world of lobbying. Christina redefines lobbying as advocacy at its core—helping individuals and organizations navigate the intricate political and policy landscape of Washington, D.C. She highlights the critical role of amplifying constituents’ voices and strategically communicating their priorities to policymakers. Christina also shares practical insights into the timing of advocacy efforts, the workings of the congressional calendar, and how to make meetings impactful. This conversation is an eye-opening guide to understanding the importance of advocacy in shaping meaningful policy change.

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Guest Info:

Christina Poehlitz, International Policy Advisor

Arnold & Porter Kaye Scholar LLP

Website: https://www.arnoldporter.com/en/people/p/poehlitz-christina

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christina-poehlitz-a3380b157/

Serena Rwejuna, a partner at White & Case and a distinguished expert in energy law, shares her compelling journey, from her upbringing in North Carolina to her studies in psychology and business, to her eventual pivot to law. She delves into her multifaceted career, discussing her experiences in business school, navigating law school challenges at Duke University, and her work in higher education. Serena offers unique insights into the complexities of energy law, the global impact of energy regulations, and the crucial role of mentorship and community support. Tune in as she explores the significance of the energy transition, regulatory bodies like FERC, and the abundant opportunities awaiting the next generation in this evolving sector—all while exemplifying approachable and authentic leadership.

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Guest Info:

Serena Rwejuna, Partner, White & Case LLP

Serena A. Rwejuna is a partner at White & Case, co-leading the firm’s Energy Markets & Regulatory practice. With a focus on clean energy technologies, regulatory compliance, and global energy policy, Serena combines her legal expertise with a multidisciplinary approach to foster innovation and sustainability. Beyond her practice, she is dedicated to pro bono advocacy and leadership within various industry boards.

Website: https://www.whitecase.com/people/serena-rwejuna

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/serena-agaba-rwejuna/

Gitanjali Sakhuja, Associate General Counsel at AmeriCares, shares her dynamic journey from California to living in multiple countries to Washington, D.C., exploring a diverse legal career path. Gitanjali offers valuable perspectives on the differences between in-house counsel and traditional legal roles, focusing on the critical aspects of compliance and sustainability within a global framework.

She discusses the importance of collaboration, creativity, and lifelong learning in legal practice, and opens up about her mentoring initiatives and strategies for building strong professional networks. The conversation also touches on balancing a fulfilling career with personal passions—highlighted by Gitanjali’s love for Bollywood dancing and exercise—and her dedication to aligning her work objectives with helping others achieve their goals, all while maintaining compliance with legal standards.

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Guest Info:

Gitanjali Sakhuja, Associate General Counsel, Americares

Gitanjali Sakhuja is an accomplished in-house legal counsel and certified Ethics & Compliance leader with a global perspective, known for turning complex challenges into actionable solutions. With expertise spanning governance, risk management, global compliance, and strategic legal direction, she brings a collaborative, creative approach to fostering growth and mindful leadership within international and corporate entities. Outside of work, Gitanjali is passionate about mentoring, teaching Bollywood and Bhangra dance, and supporting community initiatives.

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

Email: gitanjali.sakhuja@gmail.com

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Organizations referenced where:

Americares: https://www.americares.org/

Streetwise Partners: https://www.streetwisepartners.org

Legal Mentor Network: https://www.legalmentornetwork.org

Eyesea: https://eyesea.org

Charles Moore, an accomplished antitrust attorney at White & Case LLP, developed a deep appreciation for community, mentorship, and the value of giving back—principles that have driven his successful career in antitrust law. Charles shares his journey, offering unique insights into the complexities of antitrust work and the evolving challenges in the field. He also highlights the importance of balance, exploring passions both within and beyond the legal profession, and the mutual rewards of mentorship. This episode is a thoughtful look at how a fulfilling career in law can be enriched by dedication, balance, and a commitment to community.

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Guest Info:

Charles Moore, Counsel, White & Case LLP

Charles specializes in antitrust litigation, counseling, and merger control. He has played a key role in securing antitrust clearance for major transactions across various industries, from medical devices to grocery chains. With a strong focus on the intersection of intellectual property and antitrust in pharmaceuticals, Charles also provides antitrust compliance training and e-Discovery support to clients.

Website: https://www.whitecase.com/people/charles-moore

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charles-moore-91631b21/

Michael Huneke, Co-Chair of the Sanctions, Export Controls, and Anti-Money Laundering practice group, and partner in the Global Investigations, Enforcement, and Compliance practice at Hughes Hubbard & Reed, takes us through his journey in global investigations and enforcement, offering insights into the complexities of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA). We dive into the nuances of handling international bribery cases, from understanding cultural differences to navigating the political landscape of legal enforcement. He shares the vital role of foreign attorneys in these processes and discusses the challenges of managing large investigations, leading diverse teams, and maintaining balance under pressure.

This conversation also explores the intersection of law and technology, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and adapting to technological changes in the legal world. Whether you’re a legal professional or simply curious about the global landscape of compliance and enforcement, this episode is packed with valuable knowledge and practical advice. Tune in for an engaging discussion on the evolving world of international law!

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Guest Info: Michael Huneke, Partner at Hughes Hubbard & Reed LLP

Website: https://www.hugheshubbard.com/attorneys/michael-huneke

Email: michael.huneke@hugheshubbard.com

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

For our 13th episode, Margarita and I embrace the Halloween spirit, bring out the special effects, and dive into the spookier side of life! Join us as we unlock the doors to our fears, from childhood stories to urban legends. We explore our fascination with the paranormal, societal phobias, and the eerie allure of fairy tales. 🧙‍♀️👹

Discover our takes on the weird and wonderful, from scary clowns to eerie childhood tales, and find out how these stories shape our perception of fear and courage. Tune in for an exploration of human connections and the ever-evolving dance of empathy and survival. 🕯️💀

*special shoutout to Paulette M. Pagán's excerpt clip from Episode 11 to introduce the show.

Lisa Chase, Founder of Lucky Fish Research & Communications and a leading expert in Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices, breaks down the fundamentals and significance of ESG criteria in today’s business landscape, focusing on the impact of stringent European Union regulations and the emerging global influence of the ‘Brussels Effect.’ She shares insights on how EU rules are shaping corporate accountability worldwide, including in U.S. states like California, and the growing importance of supply chain reporting and compliance.

Our conversation delves into the intersection of ESG policies with investment attraction, the critical need for U.S. companies to adapt to these standards, and Lisa’s own career journey—from music to law and consulting.

Tune in to hear Lisa’s perspective on global sustainability, the importance of proactive compliance, and the evolving landscape of corporate responsibility.

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Guest info:

Lisa Chase, Lucky Fish Research & Communications

Website: http://www.luckyfishcomm.com *sign-up for her newsletter at http://luckyfishcomm.com/RequestInformationPolicyAnalysis.html

Email: info@luckyfishcomm.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-chase-581353/

Paulette Pagán, a career criminal defense attorney and current partner at Price Benowitz LLP, shares her passion for justice and a remarkable track record of success. From her early days as a Public Defender in St. Louis County, where she secured a complete dismissal of first degree murder charges for her innocent client during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, to her current practice in Washington, D.C., Paulette’s commitment to her clients is unwavering.

She shares stories from her time serving the indigent community, her experiences as with opposing parties, and how her Puerto Rican heritage influences her bilingual work. Beyond her legal expertise, Paulette’s heart for giving back shines through in her role on the Board of Directors for My Little Patient, Inc., and her volunteer work in rural Kenya. Tune in to hear Paulette’s inspiring journey and insights into the world of criminal defense.

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Guest Info:

Paulette Pagán, Price Benowitz LLP

Partner, Criminal Defense and White Collar Attorney

Website: https://pricebenowitz.com/our-team/paulette-m-pagan/

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

In this bonus episode, we take a moment to reflect on the incredible journey so far, sharing highlights and lessons learned from launching the podcast. We express our excitement for what’s to come and invite listeners to share their feedback as we continue to grow and evolve. Join us for an honest and heartfelt conversation about the passion driving this project forward!

If you know of an Advocate in DC that should be considered for a future episode, please email kballena@gmail.com for consideration.

En este episodio, damos la bienvenida al socio y propietario de una próspera firma de abogados comerciales en Colombia, Santiago Sierra Ospina. Comenzando la firma con un amigo de la escuela de derecho y más tarde unido por su esposa como socia, comparte el inspirador viaje de convertir deseos y aspiraciones personales en una carrera satisfactoria. Apasionado por su trabajo, habla de cómo sus sueños se han unido en el campo del derecho comercial, creando una profesión que mezcla todas sus aspiraciones. Únete a nosotros para una conversación fascinante sobre pasión, colaboración y la realización de sueños en el mundo legal.

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In this episode, we welcome the partner and owner of a thriving commercial law firm in Colombia, Santiago Sierra Ospina. Starting the firm with a friend from law school and later joined by his wife as a partner, he shares the inspiring journey of turning personal wants and desires into a fulfilling career. Passionate about his work, he discusses how his dreams have come together in the field of commercial law, creating a profession that blends all his aspirations. Join us for an engaging conversation about passion, partnership, and the realization of dreams in the legal world.

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Guest Info:

Santiago Sierra Ospina, Partner and Co-Founder of Posada, Sierra & Castaño

Attorney from the Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana, specialist in Public Law from EAFIT University, and holds a master's degree in law with an emphasis on civil liability from the same university. He focuses his practice on administrative law matters, government contracts, public-private partnerships, real estate law, and dispute resolution. He is a university professor and a member of the lists of national and international arbitrators and secretaries of arbitration tribunals, and as an amicable mediator of the Centro de Conciliación, Arbitraje y Amigable Composición de la Cámara de Comercio de Medellín para Antioquia.

Website: ⁠https://www.psclegal.co⁠

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/santiago-sierra-ospina-b803b2269/

Paulina Vera, a dedicated U.S. Immigration attorney and Professor at The George Washington University, helps people navigate their legal issues to stay in the United States. Known for her empathy and bedside manner, she adeptly handles complex situations and connects deeply with her clients' struggles. She also shares the personal challenges of balancing a demanding work life while maintaining her own sanity and well-being. Join us for an insightful conversation about compassion, resilience, and the human side of immigration law.

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Guest Info:

Paulina Vera, Professor at The George Washington University Law School, Legal Associate at the GW Law Immigration Clinic, and Founder of Hermanas In The Law.

She is President of the Hispanic Bar Association of the District of Columbia (HBA-DC) and Co-Chair of the Immigrant Legal Defense Task Force at the Hispanic National Bar Association. She has been recognized locally and nationally; she is the recipient of the GW Latinx Excellence Awards, Alma Award (2019), DC Courts Community Agency CORO Award (2019), Hispanic Bar Association of DC (HBA-DC) Rising Star Award (2019), and the Hispanic National Bar Association (HNBA) Top Lawyers Under 40 Award (2021).

Her passion project is managing an online community called Hermanas In The Law, where she features Latinas thinking about law school, Latina law students, and Latina lawyers. She is originally from Tucson, AZ and is the proud daughter of two immigrants.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulina-vera-00a89439/

Email: pnvera@law.gwu.edu

SPANISH BONUS EPISODE

En este episodio, charlamos con una apasionada abogada peruana, Caterina Miró Quesada, que trabajó en prestigiosas firmas en Perú y Estados Unidos. Comenzó su carrera con una orientación o tutoría mínima. Ella comparte su inspiradora historia de cómo superó estos desafíos, adoptó nuevos recursos para profundizar su conocimiento y creció en su campo. Inicialmente soñaba con una carrera en comunicaciones, pero nunca imaginó convertirse en abogada, pero su camino ha estado lleno de una pasión y dedicación inesperadas al derecho. Únase a nosotros para una conversación inspiradora sobre la perseverancia, el aprendizaje y los giros y vueltas de las trayectorias profesionales.

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In this episode, we chat with a passionate Peruvian attorney, Caterina Miró Quesada, whose worked at prestigious firms in Peru and in the United States. She started her career with minimal guidance or mentorship. She shares her inspiring story of overcoming these challenges, embracing new resources to deepen her knowledge, and growing in her field. Initially dreaming of a career in communications, she never imagined becoming an attorney, but her journey has been one of unexpected passion and dedication to the law. Join us for an inspiring discussion about perseverance, learning, and the twists and turns of career paths.

Guest Info:

Caterina Miró Quesada Samanez, Attorney in Peru and the U.S.

LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/caterina-miró-quesada-samanez/⁠

Kevin Brzozowski, Director of Business Development at Level Legal, specializes in eDiscovery services, from strategy consulting to forensic technology and complex databases, he promotes services crucial to legal practices such as antitrust and competition, audits and internal investigations, regulatory compliance, and high-stakes litigation.

He shares his career journey, insights into effective networking, best practices for business development, and the importance of clear communication between vendors and law firms. Join us for a deep dive into the world of eDiscovery, business development, and the strategies that drive success.

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Guest Info:

Kevin Brzozowski, CEDS at Level Legal

Director of Business Development at Level Legal (https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-brzozowski-54094875/)

Level Legal: https://levellegal.com

SPANISH BONUS EPISODE

En este episodio, le damos la bienvenida a un distinguido abogado colombiano, Julián Lozano, quien ofrece una visión profunda del derecho administrativo público y la política. Comparte su recorrido personal de justicia social, influenciado por sus experiencias trabajando con su hermano sordo en la pastelería familiar y aprendiendo lenguaje de señas. Únase a nosotros para una conversación inspiradora sobre derecho, familia y el profundo impacto de defender a las personas con discapacidades.

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In this episode, we welcome a distinguished Colombian attorney, Julian Lozano, who offers deep insights into public administrative law and politics. He shares his personal journey of social justice, influences by his experiences working with his deaf brother in the family pastry shop and learning sign language. Join us for an inspiring conversation about law, family, and the profound impact of advocating for those with disabilities.

Guest Info:

Julian Iozano, Colombian attorney (currently, at Levain Bakery in Georgetown)

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julianlzn

Mateo Escueta, an international law attorney in the Philippines, who shares a unique background as a former musician. Our guest shares insightful views on international law, drawing comparisons between the legal landscape and the fantastical realities of Disney movies. We also explore the intriguing politics of the Star Wars universe and how these stories reflect real-world legal and political issues. Tune in for a blend of legal expertise, pop culture analysis, and captivating stories.

Guest Info:

Mateo Escueta, international law attorney at Olivas Law Office (Manila, The Philippines)

LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/mateoescueta-4b829895/⁠

Ayana Johnson, founder and partner at Johnson Legal, began her career as a NY Assistant District Attorney and later specializing in estate planning and elder law.

She shares the importance of having a will, with cautionary tales of what can go wrong without one, including a story about a cat inheriting an entire estate. Tune in for practical advice and intriguing stories from her diverse legal journey. ========= Guest Info:

Ayana Johnson, Johnson Legal

Attorney Johnson spent the first few years of her career as an Assistant District Attorney in Brooklyn, New York, where she prosecuted and indicted hundreds of cases. She later moved on to an estate planning law firm in Maryland, where she had the privilege of learning about asset and family protection through the use of estate planning documents. Further, Attorney Johnson has interned at the United States House of Representatives, at the Superior Court for the District of Columbia, for the Office of the Federal Public Defender for the District of Delaware, and for the Delaware Department of Justice.

Phone: (929) 322-4006

website: ⁠https://johnson-legal.co⁠ (also, find her on ⁠Facebook⁠, ⁠Instagram⁠, ⁠LinkedIn⁠, and ⁠TikTok⁠)

Continuing the adventure...! Co-hosts Kelby and Margarita share personal stories of their journeys and unknown truths of each other's background.

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Co-host, Kelby Ballena, is a paralegal specialist in Big Law and the International sector for the past 23-years. His experience is with complex international cases, teaching and simplifying best practices for new members to the field, and motivating efficiency and collaborations among professionals.

Co-host, Margarita Rosa Arango, is a Colombian attorney and recent LLM graduate from American University. Her experience is in international public law and human rights.

Welcome! Co-hosts Kelby and Margarita share personal stories of their journeys and unknown truths of each other's background. They unbox and unravel the equipment, test out intro music and exchange idea of where the podcast should go.

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Co-host, Kelby Ballena, is a paralegal specialist in Big Law and the International sector for the past 23-years. His experience is with complex international cases, teaching and simplifying best practices for new members to the field, and motivating efficiency and collaborations among professionals.

Co-host, Margarita Rosa Arango, is a Colombian attorney and recent LLM graduate from American University. Her experience is in international public law and human rights.