Above the Legal Limit

Justin Chopin

Dive into engaging conversations with host Justin Chopin on Above the Legal Limit. Discover insights from business owners, entrepreneurs, and community leaders on sales, operations, and marketing strategies. A lighter look at the world of business, exploring success from all walks of life.

  1. 1d ago

    How One Dad's Love Created Beignet Fest with Sherwood Collins | Episode 114

    What started with one father's love for his son has become one of New Orleans' favorite festivals, bringing the community together while making a difference for children with autism. 💛 On this episode of Above the Legal Limit, New Orleans attorney Justin Chopin sits down with Sherwood Collins, Executive Director of Beignet Fest, to share the inspiring story behind the festival and its mission. After Sherwood's first child was diagnosed with autism, he and his wife experienced firsthand the challenges of finding accessible therapies, resources, and support. Determined to make a difference for other families, they turned their personal journey into a community-wide mission. Since its launch in 2016, Beignet Fest has grown into a beloved New Orleans food event that supports the Beignet Fest Foundation and its programs for children with autism and their families. Through initiatives like sensory-friendly spaces at local events and Camp Benny, an inclusive summer camp serving approximately 50 children per week, the foundation is helping create more opportunities for children of all abilities. In this episode, Justin and Sherwood discuss: 🥮 The story behind Beignet Fest and how it all began 💛 The importance of autism awareness, acceptance, and accessible resources 🏕️ How Camp Benny provides inclusive summer experiences for children 🎉 What goes into planning a major New Orleans festival year-round 🍤 This year's 47 beignet creations, including the shrimp-stuffed beignet that Justin can't stop talking about! 🎉 Join the celebration! Beignet Fest returns to New Orleans City Park on November 7, 2026! 🎟️ Get your tickets: https://beignetfest.com/tickets/ 💛 Learn more about Beignet Fest and its charitable mission: https://beignetfest.com/charitable-cause/ 🌐 Official website: https://beignetfest.com/ 🎙️ Subscribe to Above the Legal Limit for more conversations with the people, organizations, and stories making an impact in New Orleans and beyond. #AboveTheLegalLimit #ChopinLawFirm #BeignetFest #NewOrleans #CampBenny #AutismAcceptance #BeignetFestFoundation

  2. Oct 12

    Where Law Meets Theater with Bennett Kirschner | Episode 111

    Rewrite this but make sure the guest's name is spelled right, it should be Bennett Kirschner : What does a trial lawyer have in common with a theater director? Almost everything. In this episode of Above the Legal Limit, host Justin Chopin sits down with Bennett Kirshner, founding artistic director of Intramural Theater in New Orleans, for a thoughtful conversation about performance, storytelling, identity, and the surprising connection between the courtroom and the stage. Justin describes the suit as “the mask” he puts on before court, opening the door to a deeper discussion about the roles people play, the stories they tell, and what it takes to connect with an audience, a jury, or a client. In this episode, Justin and Bennett explore: The connection between trial lawyers and theater directors How courtroom advocacy relies on storytelling and performance The role of authenticity behind a professional persona Why presentation, preparation, and audience awareness matter The similarities between a courtroom, a stage, and everyday life Bennett’s work with Intramural Theater in New Orleans Whether you work in law, theater, business, or simply find yourself navigating different roles every day, this conversation offers a fresh perspective on how we present ourselves and connect with others. Learn more about Bennett Kirshner and Intramural Theater: https://intramuraltheater.org What’s your “mask”? Share your answer in the comments. Subscribe to Above the Legal Limit for more conversations about law, leadership, creativity, and the people shaping New Orleans.

  3. Oct 5

    What No CEO Admits with Brandon Foreman | Episode 110

    No one knows true fear like an entrepreneur the night before payroll. That’s where this episode of Above the Legal Limit goes beyond a typical business conversation. Host Justin Chopin sits down with Brandon Foreman, CEO of Family Resource Group Inc., for a candid discussion about entrepreneurship, leadership, marketing, and the pressure that comes with building and running a business. Brandon shares the lessons that shaped his approach to business, including a mountain-climbing experience that changed the way he leads, the “How can I help?” mindset behind his company’s growth across seven cities, and the simple rule he lives by: “Never skip twice.” In this episode, you’ll discover: How a mountain-climbing experience changed Brandon’s leadership philosophyThe “How can I help?” mindset behind Family Resource Group Inc.The 1-3-1 framework Brandon and Justin use to solve problems more efficientlyWhy client expectations and communication preferences are changingHow Brandon manages the uncertainty and responsibility of running a businessThe meaning behind “Never skip twice”The advice from Brandon’s mother that became clear after reaching the top of a mountain This conversation is for business owners, entrepreneurs, leaders, and anyone who has ever felt responsible for solving a problem no one else could handle. Learn more about Brandon’s work: https://familyresourcegroupinc.com What is the loneliest part of running a business? Share your answer in the comments. Subscribe to Above the Legal Limit for more honest conversations about business, leadership, law, and entrepreneurship.

  4. Sep 28

    What New Orleans Knows with Michael Hecht | Episode 109

    Can authenticity become New Orleans’ greatest economic advantage? On this episode of Above the Legal Limit, host Justin Chopin sits down with Michael Hecht, President and CEO of Greater New Orleans, Inc., for a candid conversation about the future of New Orleans and Louisiana. Michael explains why the world is finally paying attention to what New Orleans has always done well, which industries are driving the state’s next phase of growth, and why the city’s “date NOLA, marry Dallas” reputation may soon be outdated. In this episode, Justin and Michael discuss: The authenticity premium and why it matters in an age of AI-generated contentFour industries shaping Louisiana’s economic futureThe changing relationship between New Orleans, Dallas, and other growing marketsHow artificial intelligence could influence the future of the cityThe challenges Louisiana must overcome to reach its full potentialMichael’s thoughts on local culture, business, branding, and community The conversation also includes candid stories about THC drinks, DUI podcast branding, and why Louisiana may be home to the best barbecue in America. Whether you live in New Orleans, left Louisiana, or have never visited, this episode offers a compelling look at why more people are paying attention to the state’s future. Learn more about Michael Hecht’s work at Greater New Orleans Inc.: https://gnoinc.org Subscribe to Above the Legal Limit for more conversations about law, leadership, business, and the future of Louisiana.

  5. Sep 21

    A Cause for a Cure with Ryan Williams & Phil Lorio | Episode 108

    We’ve all said it: “F*ck cancer.” But saying it isn’t the same as doing something about it. On this episode of Above the Legal Limit, host Justin Chopin sits down with Phil Lorio, law partner and Cure Gala chairman, and Ryan Williams of the American Cancer Society in New Orleans for a candid conversation about what it really means to fight back against cancer. The conversation goes beyond the hashtags and social media posts to highlight the people, programs, and personal experiences behind the fight. In this episode: · Why “f*ck cancer” is the starting point—not the finish · The Patrick F. Taylor Hope Lodge, which provides free lodging for cancer patients and their caregivers · The American Cancer Society’s volunteer driver program helping patients get to treatment · Phil Lorio shares a deeply personal story about his late mother and a dream that changed his perspective · Justin Chopin reflects on losing his aunt at MD Anderson and why this cause is personal · A behind-the-scenes look at the Cure Gala, including an unforgettable bidding war Whether you’ve lost someone to cancer, are fighting it yourself, supporting a loved one, or simply want to help, there’s a way to make a difference. You don’t have to make a huge donation. Volunteer. Give $5. Share the message. Every bit of support matters. 📍 Cure Gala 2026 September 26, 2026 Mardi Gras World | New Orleans 👉 Learn more or donate: https://nolacurebydesign.org

  6. Sep 14

    The Weatherman Everyone Wants with Chris Franklin | Episode 107

    What is it really like to be the person millions rely on when a hurricane is approaching? In this episode of Above the Legal Limit, Justin Chopin sits down with WWL Chief Meteorologist Chris Franklin for an inside look at forecasting some of Louisiana's most dangerous storms and the responsibility that comes with keeping communities informed. Chris shares what sets meteorologists apart from everyone else in the newsroom, why weather coverage creates a unique connection with viewers, and what it's like working through major events such as Hurricane Ida. He also reflects on Hurricane Michael and how that experience changed the way he communicates about storms—not only as a meteorologist, but as a father. Whether you're fascinated by weather, live along the Gulf Coast, or simply want a behind-the-scenes look at local television news, this conversation offers an honest perspective on forecasting, public trust, and serving the community when it matters most. In this episode: Why meteorologists have a unique relationship with their communities Behind the scenes of hurricane coverage at WWL What it was like reporting during Hurricane Ida How Hurricane Michael changed Chris Franklin's perspective The responsibility of communicating risk during severe weather Subscribe for more conversations with leaders, professionals, and changemakers from across Louisiana and beyond. 🌐 Chopin Law Firm: https://www.chopinlawfirm.com/ 🎙️ Above the Legal Limit: https://www.youtube.com/@abovethelegallimit

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Dive into engaging conversations with host Justin Chopin on Above the Legal Limit. Discover insights from business owners, entrepreneurs, and community leaders on sales, operations, and marketing strategies. A lighter look at the world of business, exploring success from all walks of life.

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