Aug 13

Former NFL Player Turned Lawyer ft. Brian Parker | The Final Deposition: Widener Law Commonwealth Podcast

In the studio this week we talk with former NFL Tight End, Brian Parker. After Brian's retirement in 2019 he went to law school and now practices law in Colorado. Brian shines light on what it takes to be a professional athlete and some of the challenges that come with that. His agent, Kevin Gold, joins us as well sharing more about the insights of a sports agent. Tune in as our guests pull back the curtain on NFL happenings and how to pivot to the next big thing. Today's episode is hosted by 2L Jericha Brock Every case leaves a record. Welcome to Widener Law Commonwealth's student-run podcast series: The Final Deposition, where law meets world. From science and technology to sports, entertainment and pop culture, we sit down with attorney's, policymakers, innovators, trailblazers, and influential voices shaping the moments everyone is talking about. Each episode examines how the law works when it matters most. Curious, compelling and critical conversations you don't just hear. You feel them long after the record is closed. Time Stamps 00:00 - Introduction to The Final Deposition and Guest 00:30 - Brian Parker's Background & Transition from NFL to Law 01:46 - Connecting at UAlbany: The Agent-Player Relationship 03:53 - Entering the NFL & Draft Day Experience 06:55 - First Complete Season with the Chiefs & Becoming a "Blocking Tight End" 09:08 - Facing Injury, Waiver Issues, and the NFL Grievance Process 14:18 - Kevin Gold on Navigating Player Grievances and Long-Term Interests 16:10 - Lessons Learned from Highs, Lows, and Pressures in the NFL 21:02 - Preparing for the LSAT and Choosing to Pursue Law 24:10 - Legal Education at the University of Denver Sturm College of Law 27:35 - Returning to the Classroom & Overcoming Cold Calling 30:08 - Staying in Touch During Law School & Using the "NFL Card" 34:33 - Kevin Gold on Seeing Clients Succeed Beyond Football 36:04 - Advice for Prospective and Non-Traditional Law Students 38:44 - Applying NFL Discipline, Preparation, and Confidence to Law 40:31 - Day-to-Day Life in Commercial Litigation and Employment Law 44:36 - Advocating for Clients in Similar Shoes 46:26 - Requirements and Reality of Becoming a Sports Agent 47:49 - Comparing Pressures: NFL vs. Practicing Law 50:32 - Classroom Examples, Bar Application Work History, and Wrap-Up Transcript: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1i2opyqZl3llX4LKM7i4PsIR6Xrf0oDEv/view?usp=sharing Music Credit: "The Verdict Is In" by KyivNightsMusic https://www.pond5.com/royalty-free-music/item/320251718-verdict Widener University Commonwealth Law School is the Pennsylvania capital's only law school, with four specialized centers of legal scholarship through its Law & Government Institute, Environmental Law and Sustainability Center, Business Advising Program, and Center for Equity and Justice. Widener Law Commonwealth offers an exceptional learning experience that is personal, practical, and professional. Visit commonwealthlaw.widener.edu for more information.

Aug 4

What I Wish I Knew as a 1L | Late Night in the Library: Widener Law Commonwealth Podcast

Late Night in the Library is the side of law school you won't find a textbook for. Produced by Widener Law Commonwealth, this student-run podcast dives into pit conversations, library whispers, and the lessons learned outside the classroom. We talk with students about getting through tough semesters, finding their footing, and the small moments that end up defining law school. Honest and unfiltered, this series centers real student voices and real conversations. In this episode of Late Night in the Library, Widener Law Commonwealth 2L students Owen Dougherty and Enzo Fetsko talk honestly about what they wish they knew during 1L year, from orientation and imposter syndrome to cold calls, case briefs, midterms, and finals. They also cover balancing mental health, social life, networking, and the realities of legal writing and oral arguments. Whether you are about to start law school or already in it, this episode explains how to adapt and get through your first year with confidence. Topics Covered 00:00 Intro 01:06 Orientation 02:10 First Week of Classes 03:35 Mentorship 05:30 First Semester 13:30 Professors 15:12 Office Hours 16:30 Study Aids 21:23 Daily Life 25:58 Cold Calling 34:47 Class Prep 38:56 Case Briefing Explanation 42:10 Midterms/Finals 58:15 Legal Writing 1:00:10 Oral Arguments 1:03:37 Favorite 1L Class 1:05:00 Outro Widener University Commonwealth Law School is the Pennsylvania capital's only law school, with four specialized centers of legal scholarship through its Law & Government Institute, Environmental Law and Sustainability Center, Business Advising Program, and Center for Equity and Justice. Widener Law Commonwealth offers an exceptional learning experience that is personal, practical, and professional. Visit commonwealthlaw.widener.edu for more information. Transcript (PDF): https://drive.google.com/file/d/1-_P_KdM8f5JexakZwrEFIZN93svIATZB/view?usp=sharing Music Credit: "Late Night Crush" by Netuno https://www.pond5.com/royalty-free-music/item/312639960-late-night-crush-short-intro-dance-upbeat-house-urban-party

Jul 28

The Weight We Carry, The Future We Build| Cafecito con LALSA | Late Night in the Library

In this episode of Late Night in the Library featuring Cafecito con LALSA, we look beyond the single story that is attached to the word Immigrant. Delving into the lives shaped by courage, sacrifice and resilience, three Widener Law Commonwealth students reflect on identity, family, and the invisible threads that have pulled together their ambition. Each journey, different in its own way, reveals what it means to move forward while carrying the past. Because arrival is only the beginning, what comes next, is where transformation lives. Cafecito con LALSA (Latin American Law Student Association) is a student run podcast where traditional and non-traditional law students come together to share their unique journeys through law school. Hear the voices of minority students as they discuss their challenges and triumphs, and listen to diverse perspectives on a wide range of topics. Tune in for a dynamic conversation that reflects the rich tapestry of the Widener Law Commonwealth student experience. Topics Covered 00:00 Introduction: The Immigrant Story 01:12 Welcome to Late Night at the Library & Introductions 02:08 Where Our Stories Begin: Family Roots 05:34 Early Memories and Adaptation 11:34 Home Life, Community, and Food 24:16 Navigating Identity & Professionalism in Law School 32:45 Cultural Assimilation and Staying Grounded 41:10 Overcoming Obstacles and Professional Growth 52:30 Redefining Success and Family Legacy 1:03:15 Looking to the Future & Words of Advice 1:11:40 Closing Thoughts & Acknowledgments 1:13:00 End Widener University Commonwealth Law School is the Pennsylvania capital's only law school, with four specialized centers of legal scholarship through its Law & Government Institute, Environmental Law and Sustainability Center, Business Advising Program, and Center for Equity and Justice. Widener Law Commonwealth offers an exceptional learning experience that is personal, practical, and professional. Visit commonwealthlaw.widener.edu for more information. Transcript: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1U-v6mxb1caYkGIlUX7zgt626a4ZMFWnW/view?usp=sharing Music Credit: "Late Night Crush" by Netuno https://www.pond5.com/royalty-free-music/item/312639960-late-night-crush-short-intro-dance-upbeat-house-urban-party

Jul 16

The Law of Music | The Final Deposition: Widener Law Commonwealth Podcast

Every case leaves a record. Welcome to Widener Law Commonwealth's student-run podcast series: The Final Deposition, where law meets world. From science and technology to sports, entertainment and pop culture, we sit down with attorney's, policymakers, innovators, trailblazers, and influential voices shaping the moments everyone is talking about. Each episode examines how the law works when it matters most. Curious, compelling and critical conversations you don't just hear. You feel them long after the record is closed. In this episode host Enzo Fetsko is joined by Dean cummings and Jason Berger, an entertainment attorney at Lewis Brisbois who represents clients across music, film and television, digital media, fashion, and art. From negotiating recording and publishing deals to structuring distribution agreements, Jason works at the center of today's entertainment industry. A Pennsylvania Super Lawyer and Billboard 2025 Top Music Lawyer, he shares insights into his career and the business of entertainment law. Topics Covered 00:00 – Intro: Meet Entertainment Attorney Jason Berger 02:00 – Breaking Into Entertainment Law 06:00 – What Makes Real Talent? Inside A&R & Artist Discovery 12:00 – The Business Behind the Music Industry 14:30 – How Social Media & TikTok Changed Artist Careers 19:30 – AI's Impact on Music & Legal Challenges 22:00 – Client Success Stories (Friday, Uzi Era, Producer Collectives) 28:30 – Culture, Trust & Lawyer–Artist Relationships 37:30 – Music as Storytelling: Trauma, Upbringing & Real-Life Experiences 43:00 – Career Advice for Future Entertainment Lawyers 46:30 – What's Next for Jason Berger 48:22 – Final Thanks & Closing Remarks Widener University Commonwealth Law School is the Pennsylvania capital's only law school, with four specialized centers of legal scholarship through its Law & Government Institute, Environmental Law and Sustainability Center, Business Advising Program, and Center for Equity and Justice. Widener Law Commonwealth offers an exceptional learning experience that is personal, practical, and professional. Visit commonwealthlaw.widener.edu for more information. Transcript (PDF): https://drive.google.com/file/d/1eSP0LP_96evNX2XDf92uKD8ny1fE5ap2/view?usp=sharing Music Credit: "The Verdict Is In" by KyivNightsMusic https://www.pond5.com/royalty-free-music/item/320251718-verdict

Jul 7

Smashing the Bar with Grace Mills | Late Night in the Library: Widener Law Commonwealth Podcast

Late Night in the Library is the side of law school you won't find a textbook for. Produced by Widener Law Commonwealth, this student-run podcast dives into pit conversations, library whispers, and the lessons learned outside the classroom. We talk with students about getting through tough semesters, finding their footing, and the small moments that end up defining law school. Honest and unfiltered, this series centers real student voices and real conversations. Host Shemariel Gray, alongside Widener University Commonwealth Law School Dean andré cummings, sits down with Widener Law Commonwealth alumna and newly sworn-in attorney Grace Mills, Esq. Mills shares how she scored in the top 1.1 percentile of the bar exam, breaking down her approach, mindset, and the strategies that helped her succeed. Topics Covered 0:00 Intro 01:16 Would you Rather 02:47 Current Life 03:50 Day of the Bar Exam 05:53 After the Test 06:24 Plan 08:45 Recipe to SMASH the Bar Exam 09:35 What Grace Did in Law School and During Bar Prep To Succeed 12:20 How to Relax During Bar Prep 13:30 What Did a Day Look Like 15:05 Obstacles 16:20 How Widener Helped 19:18 Lawyers Run in the Family 21:44 First Day as a Lawyer 23:09 Finding out Bar Exam Score 25:00 The Grind 26:38 Advice for Repeat Takers 26:58 Advice for First Time Takers 27:28 Outtakes 28:20 Bar Bootcamp 29:25 How Do you Gas It 29:50 Final Tips The bar exam some people love it, some people hate it but one thing's for sure, if you're a law student, there's no escaping it. So how do you pass it? That is the one question we are here to answer! Welcome to Widener Law Commonwealth: Smashing the Bar, a podcast series where we sit down with top-scoring bar passers from Widener University Commonwealth Law School to talk strategy, survival, and the long awaited success that comes after the bar exam! Widener University Commonwealth Law School is the Pennsylvania capital's only law school, with four specialized centers of legal scholarship through its Law & Government Institute, Environmental Law and Sustainability Center, Business Advising Program, and Center for Equity and Justice. Widener Law Commonwealth offers an exceptional learning experience that is personal, practical, and professional. Visit commonwealthlaw.widener.edu for more information. Transcript: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1j6AStpCVDAQlAKcltCRQHGj457K5Luhv/view?usp=sharing Music Credit: "Late Night Crush" by Netuno https://www.pond5.com/royalty-free-music/item/312639960-late-night-crush-short-intro-dance-upbeat-house-urban-party

Jun 23

Spilling the Tea About Being a Latina in Law | Cafecito con LALSA | Late Night in the Library

Cafecito con LALSA (Latin American Law Student Association) is a student run podcast where traditional and non-traditional law students come together to share their unique journeys through law school. Hear the voices of minority students as they discuss their challenges and triumphs, and listen to diverse perspectives on a wide range of topics. Tune in for a dynamic conversation that reflects the rich tapestry of the Widener Law Commonwealth student experience. What does it take to navigate law school leadership, build a tight-knit community, and pass the bar exam on your first try? Former LALSA President Kim Diaz joins current president Natalie Solano to break it all down. From the highs and lows of organizing impactful community events to the exact study schedule that led to a 100% LALSA bar passage rate, Kim shares invaluable tips for current law students. Tune in for a powerful conversation about representation, the Latina grind mindset, and learning to give yourself grace along the way. Timestamps 00:00 - Introduction 01:38 - Time as LALSA President 03:49 - Deciding to Run for President 06:12 - Goals for the Organization 09:42 - Rewards & Challenges of Leadership 12:50 - Advice for Student Leaders 18:22 - Bar Exam Preparation 21:47 - Bar Study Structure & Resources 26:19 - Managing Stress During Bar Prep 29:58 - Top 3 Tips for 3Ls Preparing for the Bar 33:10 - Summer Focus and Repetition 35:50 - Individualized Focus & Post-Grad Isolation 38:30 - Life After the Bar & Latina Representation 41:00 - Closing Thoughts & Advice to 1L Self Late Night in the Library is the side of law school you won't find a textbook for. Produced by Widener Law Commonwealth, this student-run podcast dives into pit conversations, library whispers, and the lessons learned outside the classroom. We talk with students about getting through tough semesters, finding their footing, and the small moments that end up defining law school. Honest and unfiltered, this series centers real student voices and real conversations. Widener University Commonwealth Law School is the Pennsylvania capital's only law school, with four specialized centers of legal scholarship through its Law & Government Institute, Environmental Law and Sustainability Center, Business Advising Program, and Center for Equity and Justice. Widener Law Commonwealth offers an exceptional learning experience that is personal, practical, and professional. Visit commonwealthlaw.widener.edu for more information. Transcript: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Z9vvg9MJJ1L9CvCjZHqt9fW0nRF-Bmt8/view?usp=sharing Music Credit: "Late Night Crush" by Netuno https://www.pond5.com/royalty-free-music/item/312639960-late-night-crush-short-intro-dance-upbeat-house-urban-party

Jun 11

Draft Prospect Alonzo Ford Jr. | The Final Deposition: Widener law Commonwealth Podcast

Every case leaves a record. Welcome to Widener Law Commonwealth's student-run podcast series: The Final Deposition, where law meets world. From science and technology to sports, entertainment and pop culture, we sit down with attorney's, policymakers, innovators, trailblazers, and influential voices shaping the moments everyone is talking about. Each episode examines how the law works when it matters most. Curious, compelling and critical conversations you don't just hear. You feel them long after the record is closed. Join us in the studio this week with former Penn State Defensive Tackle, Alonzo Ford. Alonzo talks with us about the mental fortitude required to play football at a high level, fighting back from injury, and draft preparedness. We are also joined by his agent, Kevin Gold. Come listen to our guests give us a sneak peek into the life of an agent and player during draft season. Today's episode is hosted by 2L Jericha Brock Widener University Commonwealth Law School is the Pennsylvania capital's only law school, with four specialized centers of legal scholarship through its Law & Government Institute, Environmental Law and Sustainability Center, Business Advising Program, and Center for Equity and Justice. Widener Law Commonwealth offers an exceptional learning experience that is personal, practical, and professional. Visit commonwealthlaw.widener.edu for more information. Time Stamps 00:00 - Intro 00:28 - Can we start off with hearing a little bit about you? 01:04 - What was the experience like for you starting your collegiate career in Virginia close to home? 01:41 - Is family really important to you, and how connected are they now that you've transferred to Penn State? 02:12 - What was the transition like from playing both sides of the ball in high school to solely focusing on defensive tackle in college? 02:54 - Was defensive tackle your position of choice? 03:02 - What was the transfer portal process like for you? 04:15 - Can you speak to your education a little bit, what you majored in, and what that experience was like? 05:03 - What was the transition like with the coaching staff, did they live up to expectations, and how did they welcome you into the Penn State family? 06:00 - How did it make you feel to suffer an injury shortly after transferring that kept you out for the 2023 season? 07:07 - Were the coaching staff and your family really big motivating factors during your injury rehab? 07:49 - What was the experience and excitement like transitioning from injury to finishing your Penn State career with a big Pinstripe Bowl win? 08:54 - How did you and Kevin get involved with each other as player and agent? 12:41 - After forming your relationship with Kevin, how has it been thus far? 13:20 - When did your relationship officially start—was it after the Bowl game or earlier? 13:55 - What all went into your decision to declare for the NFL draft at the top of the year? 14:20 - Was declaring a solo decision, or did you talk with Kevin and your family? 14:35 - How has the draft preparation gone for you? 14:59 - How long was the training experience process, and what has it been like training full-time? 15:49 - Was there any other preparation you had to do in between time, like the senior bowl? 16:39 - Did the coaches at the senior bowl give you any practical advice, and what were they emphasizing for you? 17:41 - What made your chosen training facility (Test Academy) the most compatible for you? 21:35 - How has the Penn State football program continued to assist resources before and during your preparation for the draft? 22:50 - How do you notice Kevin's efforts as far as helping you with preparation? 23:50 - Can you explain to us the concept and idea of what a college Pro Day is? 25:04 - How did it feel to go through the concept and high point of Pro Day alongside the players you've been with for the last few years? Transcript: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1KNWjpI2THhaVy3Ai9RhHwIPT9xYpauXW/view Music Credit: "The Verdict Is In" by KyivNightsMusic licensed via Pond5

Jun 2

Smashing the Bar with Kendyl Swank | Late Night in the Library: Widener Law Commonwealth Podcast

Late Night in the Library is the side of law school you won't find a textbook for. Produced by Widener Law Commonwealth, this student-run podcast dives into pit conversations, library whispers, and the lessons learned outside the classroom. We talk with students about getting through tough semesters, finding their footing, and the small moments that end up defining law school. Honest and unfiltered, this series centers real student voices and real conversations. We're kicking off the very first episode "Smashing the Bar" with a powerful conversation you won't want to miss. Host Shemariel Gray, alongside Widener University Commonwealth Law School Dean andré cummings, sits down with Widener Law Commonwealth alumna and newly sworn-in attorney Kendyl L. Swank, Esq. Kendyl shares how she scored in the top percentile of the bar exam, breaking down her approach, mindset, and the strategies that helped her succeed. Topics Covered 0:00 Intro 1:25 Actual Day of the Bar Exam 3:35 Managing Self Doubt 5:50 Comparison Issues 7:00 Why Kendyl Swank is the First Guest 8:32 Bar Exam Study Tips 11:22 What Does a Day During Bar Prep Look Like 12:25 Keeping Up Your Stamina 14:14 Did Kendyl Work Too Hard 15:58 Bar Exam Advice for 1Ls and 2Ls 18:00 Resources for Bar Prep 19:34 Advice to Repeat Bar Takers 22:44 Cold Call Roulette 25:12 What is it Like Now Practicing Law 26:49 Current Position 28:33 Has Anything Changed in Way you Perceive Yourself Since Smashing the Bar 29:59 Advice for Bar Takers 31:11 Pride and Intro of Series 32:15 How WLC Prepares Students to Smash the Bar 36:21 Outro The bar exam some people love it, some people hate it but one thing's for sure, if you're a law student, there's no escaping it. So how do you pass it? That is the one question we are here to answer! Welcome to Widener Law Commonwealth: Smashing the Bar, a podcast series where we sit down with top-scoring bar passers from Widener University Commonwealth Law School to talk strategy, survival, and the long awaited success that comes after the bar exam! Widener University Commonwealth Law School is the Pennsylvania capital's only law school, with four specialized centers of legal scholarship through its Law & Government Institute, Environmental Law and Sustainability Center, Business Advising Program, and Center for Equity and Justice. Widener Law Commonwealth offers an exceptional learning experience that is personal, practical, and professional. Visit commonwealthlaw.widener.edu for more information. Transcript: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1I3D-s8vDgMAeQ-uU5cLAfCSsXnyu8agi/view?usp=sharing Music Credit: "Late Night Crush" by Netuno https://www.pond5.com/royalty-free-music/item/312639960-late-night-crush-short-intro-dance-upbeat-house-urban-party

Widener Law Commonwealth's Podcast

Former NFL Player Turned Lawyer ft. Brian Parker | The Final Deposition: Widener Law Commonwealth Podcast

What I Wish I Knew as a 1L | Late Night in the Library: Widener Law Commonwealth Podcast

The Weight We Carry, The Future We Build| Cafecito con LALSA | Late Night in the Library

The Law of Music | The Final Deposition: Widener Law Commonwealth Podcast

Smashing the Bar with Grace Mills | Late Night in the Library: Widener Law Commonwealth Podcast

Spilling the Tea About Being a Latina in Law | Cafecito con LALSA | Late Night in the Library

Draft Prospect Alonzo Ford Jr. | The Final Deposition: Widener law Commonwealth Podcast

Smashing the Bar with Kendyl Swank | Late Night in the Library: Widener Law Commonwealth Podcast

Ratings & Reviews

Excellent Podcast with Diverse Law Topics

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Widener Law Commonwealth's Podcast

Episodes

Former NFL Player Turned Lawyer ft. Brian Parker | The Final Deposition: Widener Law Commonwealth Podcast

What I Wish I Knew as a 1L | Late Night in the Library: Widener Law Commonwealth Podcast

The Weight We Carry, The Future We Build| Cafecito con LALSA | Late Night in the Library

The Law of Music | The Final Deposition: Widener Law Commonwealth Podcast

Smashing the Bar with Grace Mills | Late Night in the Library: Widener Law Commonwealth Podcast

Spilling the Tea About Being a Latina in Law | Cafecito con LALSA | Late Night in the Library

Draft Prospect Alonzo Ford Jr. | The Final Deposition: Widener law Commonwealth Podcast

Smashing the Bar with Kendyl Swank | Late Night in the Library: Widener Law Commonwealth Podcast

Ratings & Reviews

About

Information