The Law By Leo Podcast

lawbyleopodcast

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Business

*Law By Leo Podcast* focuses on exploring the legal landscape of emerging industries, featuring in-depth discussions with entrepreneurs, legal experts, and industry leaders. Join us as we delve into the world of high compliance sectors and uncover valuable insights for business growth and success.

2d ago

The Supreme Court Just Ended Independent Agencies — And Nobody Noticed

Episode Summary: In this episode of The Law by Leo Podcast, host Sean O'Connor is joined by Alex, a legal expert specializing in highly regulated industries, to discuss the recent Supreme Court ruling in Trump v. Slaughter. This landmark decision allows the president to fire the heads of independent agencies at will, overturning nearly a century of precedent. The conversation delves into the historical context of the Humphrey's Executor case, the implications for regulatory stability, and the potential impact on various industries such as finance, telecommunications, and cannabis. Alex provides insights into how businesses can remain agile amidst regulatory uncertainties and offers practical advice for navigating these changes. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of how this ruling could reshape the regulatory landscape and affect their strategic planning. Key Timestamps: 00:01 – Introduction 0:14 – Supreme Court Ruling Overview 0:53 – Historical Context: Humphrey's Executor 1:54 – Impact on Regulatory Agencies 3:32 – Challenges for Regulated Industries 4:08 – Trump's Role in the Case 5:24 – Agencies Affected by the Ruling 6:28 – Industry-Specific Implications 7:19 – Business Planning in Uncertain Times 9:11 – Cannabis Industry Outlook 11:28 – Gambling and Prediction Markets 12:08 – Preparing for Regulatory Changes 14:39 – Practical Steps for Businesses 16:01 – Identifying Regulatory Agencies 17:21 – Rapid Fire: Court's Decision and Industry Impact About the Show: The Law by Leo Podcast is a must-listen for business owners, legal professionals, and anyone interested in the intersection of law and industry. Each episode breaks down complex legal issues with clarity and insight, featuring expert guests who provide practical advice and analysis. The show covers a wide range of topics, from regulatory changes to landmark court decisions, all aimed at helping listeners navigate the legal landscape with confidence. Whether you're a seasoned attorney or a curious entrepreneur, The Law by Leo Podcast offers valuable perspectives on the legal challenges and opportunities that shape today's business environment.
Oct 13

The $6 Billion Cannabis Debt Wall: Who Survives Who Gets Swallowed and How to Position Your Business

Episode Summary: In this episode of The Law by Leo Podcast, host Sean O'Connor is joined by Alex Leonowicz, a partner at Howard and Howard Attorneys, to dissect the looming $6 billion cannabis industry debt due by 2026. Alex, who has firsthand experience in building and scaling a cannabis company, provides insights into the industry's current financial landscape. They discuss the concept of the "debt wall," its implications for cannabis businesses, and the potential for market consolidation. The conversation covers the challenges of refinancing, the impact of state regulations, and the opportunities for acquisitions in this volatile market. Listeners will gain a comprehensive understanding of how these financial dynamics could reshape the cannabis industry and what strategies businesses can employ to navigate this critical period. Key Timestamps: 00:01 – Introduction 0:12 – The Cannabis Debt Wall Explained 0:48 – Guest Introduction: Alex Leonowicz 1:34 – Origins of Cannabis Industry Debt 2:22 – Economic Realities of Cannabis Expansion 3:42 – State-by-State Cannabis Legalization Status 4:29 – Impact of Debt on Market Dynamics 5:52 – Challenges with Federal Legalization 7:01 – Refinancing Options for Cannabis Companies 8:02 – Market Consolidation and M&A Activity 10:04 – Rescheduling of Medical Cannabis 11:16 – Impact of Rescheduling on Financials 12:32 – Dual Licensing and Business Strategy 14:53 – Due Diligence in Cannabis M&A 17:40 – Who's Buying in the Cannabis Market? 20:04 – Predictions for Cannabis Market Survival About the Show: The Law by Leo Podcast is designed for legal professionals, business owners, and anyone interested in the intersection of law and industry. Each episode features in-depth discussions with experts who provide insights into legal challenges and opportunities across various sectors. With a focus on clarity and practical advice, the show aims to equip listeners with the knowledge they need to navigate complex legal landscapes. Whether you're dealing with regulatory issues, business transactions, or industry-specific legal matters, The Law by Leo Podcast offers valuable perspectives to help you succeed. Visit the website below to learn more: https://lawbyleo.com/
Sep 29

I Spent $100K on Legal Fees and Still Lost:How Businesses Get Eaten Alive by Their Own Lawyers

Episode Summary: In this episode of The Law by Leo Podcast, host Evan welcomes Alex Leonowicz, a partner at Howard and Howard Attorneys, to discuss the intricacies of legal fees and how business owners can manage them effectively. Alex, who has experience both as an attorney and a business owner, shares insights into the broken incentive structures within the legal industry, particularly focusing on the billable hour model. He explains the phases of commercial litigation, from initial retainers to trial preparation, and highlights the importance of having a business mindset when navigating legal disputes. Alex also introduces the concept of fractional general counsel as a proactive approach to avoid costly litigation. This episode is essential for business owners looking to understand and control their legal expenses while ensuring effective legal representation. Key Timestamps: 00:01 – Introduction 00:09 – The $100,000 Legal Fee Story 00:26 – The Broken Incentive Structure in Legal Fees 01:18 – The Billable Hour Conflict 02:20 – Business Owner's Perspective on Legal Invoices 03:24 – Anatomy of a Legal Case 06:36 – Emotional Costs of Litigation 07:41 – Why Lawyers Don't Advise to Settle 08:35 – Mistakes Leading to High Legal Bills 10:05 – Challenges in Collecting Judgments 11:09 – Getting a Second Legal Opinion 12:05 – Controlling Litigation Costs 13:03 – Alternative Fee Arrangements 14:22 – When to Fire Your Lawyer 15:37 – Benefits of Fractional General Counsel 17:26 – Mid-Stream Legal Help with FGC 18:14 – Cost Comparison: FGC vs. Litigation About the Show: The Law by Leo Podcast is designed for business owners who want to navigate the legal landscape with confidence and clarity. Each episode breaks down complex legal topics into practical insights, helping listeners make informed decisions that protect their businesses and bottom lines. Hosted by legal experts, the show aims to demystify the legal industry, offering strategies and tips to manage legal challenges effectively. Whether you're dealing with contracts, litigation, or regulatory compliance, The Law by Leo Podcast provides the tools and knowledge you need to succeed. Visit the website below to learn more: https://lawbyleo.com/
Sep 15

The Five Contracts That Will Destroy Your Business (And You Probably Already Signed Them)

Episode Summary: In this episode of The Law by Leo Podcast, host Evan Mack is joined by Alex Leonowicz, a seasoned corporate attorney and partner at Howard and Howard Attorneys PLLC. Together, they delve into five critical types of contracts that business owners often sign without fully understanding the implications. Alex, drawing from over 13 years of experience, highlights the dangers of clauses like personal guarantees in commercial leases, auto-renewals in software agreements, and indemnification provisions in vendor agreements. He also discusses the complexities of independent contractor agreements and the potential legal challenges they pose. Alex shares practical advice on how to renegotiate unfavorable terms and the importance of having tailored legal counsel, such as through a fractional general counsel model, to prevent costly legal issues. This episode equips business owners with the knowledge to safeguard their interests and avoid common contractual pitfalls. Key Timestamps: 00:01 – Introduction 00:09 – The Dangers of Commercial Leases 01:17 – Options for Bad Lease Agreements 02:44 – Software Agreement Pitfalls 03:52 – Importance of Reviewing Auto-Renewals 04:24 – Vendor Agreement Indemnification 05:54 – Real-World Indemnification Example 07:10 – Independent Contractor Misclassification 08:58 – Consequences of Misclassification 10:26 – Non-Compete Injunctions 12:07 – Risks of Using Template Contracts 13:36 – AI Contracts: A Better Option? 14:39 – Benefits of Fractional General Counsel 16:32 – ROI of Embedded Legal Counsel 17:46 – Steps After Signing a Problematic Contract About the Show: The Law by Leo Podcast is designed for business owners and entrepreneurs seeking to navigate the complex world of legal contracts and obligations. Each episode features insightful discussions with legal professionals who break down intricate legal concepts into practical advice. The show emphasizes clarity and proactive strategies to help listeners protect their businesses from legal pitfalls. Whether you're a seasoned business owner or just starting out, The Law by Leo Podcast equips you with the knowledge to make informed decisions and safeguard your enterprise. Visit the website below to learn more: https://lawbyleo.com/
Sep 1

Cannabis Rescheduling: What Schedule III Actually Means for Your Business

Episode Summary: In this episode of The Law by Leo Podcast, host Lisa Mosbey welcomes Alex Leonowicz, a partner at Howard and Howard Attorneys, PLLC, to discuss the recent reclassification of medical cannabis and FDA-approved marijuana products from Schedule One to Schedule Three under the Controlled Substances Act. Alex, with over 13 years of experience in corporate law and a background in the cannabis industry, breaks down what this change means for businesses. The conversation covers the implications for IRS Section 280E, potential retroactive tax relief, and the ongoing challenges with banking and financing in the cannabis sector. Alex also highlights the importance of maintaining separate tracks for medical and recreational operations to optimize tax benefits. This episode is essential for cannabis business owners looking to adapt to regulatory changes and leverage new opportunities for growth. Key Timestamps: 00:01 – Introduction 00:12 – Cannabis Reclassification Overview 01:30 – DOJ and DEA Actions Explained 02:33 – Distinction Between Medical and Recreational Cannabis 03:08 – Understanding Schedule One vs. Schedule Three 03:50 – Impact of IRS Section 280E 05:45 – Retroactive Tax Relief Possibilities 06:46 – Tax Strategies for Dual License Operators 08:37 – Banking Challenges in the Cannabis Industry 10:02 – Potential Effects of the Safer Banking Act 13:04 – Institutional Investment Opportunities 14:13 – Misconceptions About Legalization 16:02 – Upcoming June 29th Hearing 17:02 – Immediate Steps for Cannabis Business Owners 18:21 – Importance of Fractional General Counsel About the Show: The Law by Leo Podcast is designed for professionals navigating the complexities of high-compliance industries, with a focus on legal strategies and regulatory insights. Hosted by Lisa Mosbey, the show features expert discussions on topics like cannabis law, corporate compliance, and business growth strategies. Each episode aims to equip listeners with practical knowledge to make informed decisions, ensuring they stay ahead in a constantly evolving legal landscape. Whether you're a business owner, attorney, or industry stakeholder, The Law by Leo Podcast delivers valuable content to help you thrive. Visit the website below to learn more: https://lawbyleo.com/
Aug 18

The Partnership Breakup:How to Protect Yourself Before It Goes Wrong

Episode Summary: In this episode of The Law By Leo Podcast, host Lisa Mosbey delves into the challenging topic of business partnership breakups with Alex Leonowicz, a seasoned corporate attorney and founder of the podcast. Alex shares his insights from over 13 years in corporate law, discussing common reasons partnerships fail, such as unequal workloads, financial mismanagement, and life changes. He emphasizes the importance of a solid operating agreement, likening it to a business prenup, and details key components like clearly defined roles and buy-sell provisions. Alex also explains complex clauses like shotgun, drag along, and tag along, and offers advice for minority partners. The conversation highlights the need for proactive planning to avoid costly disputes and the benefits of having a fractional general counsel to foresee potential issues. Listeners will gain valuable strategies to protect their business interests and ensure smoother transitions in the event of a partnership dissolution. Key Timestamps: 00:01 – Introduction 00:19 – Importance of Planning for Breakups 00:43 – Why Business Partnerships Fail 01:47 – Common Patterns Leading to Failure 03:35 – Timeline for Partnership Cracks 04:54 – The Business Prenup: Operating Agreements 06:10 – Key Components of a Good Agreement 08:41 – Understanding Buy-Sell Agreements 09:56 – Shotgun, Drag Along, and Tag Along Clauses 11:07 – Valuation Disputes in Partnerships 12:28 – Protections for Minority Partners 14:07 – Freeze Out and Squeeze Out Tactics 15:17 – What Happens When Partnerships Break Down 17:21 – Mistakes During Breakups 18:44 – Steps for Partnerships Without Agreements 20:10 – Benefits of Fractional General Counsel 22:01 – Rapid Fire: Partnership Scenarios About the Show: The Law By Leo Podcast is designed for entrepreneurs, business owners, and legal enthusiasts who want to navigate the complexities of business law with confidence. Hosted by Lisa Mosbey, the show features in-depth discussions with legal professionals who provide practical advice and insights on topics like partnership agreements, compliance, and dispute resolution. With a focus on clarity and actionable strategies, the podcast aims to empower listeners to make informed decisions that protect and grow their businesses. Whether you're starting a new venture or managing an established company, The Law By Leo Podcast offers valuable guidance to help you succeed. For more information, visit our website: https://lawbyleo.com
Aug 4

The Hidden Legal Landmines of Multi-State Growth

Episode Summary: In this episode of The Law By Leo Podcast, host Sean O'Connor sits down with attorney Alexander Leonowicz, a seasoned business attorney specializing in high compliance industries such as cannabis and gaming. Alexander shares his insights on the complexities businesses face when expanding into new states, using his own experiences in the cannabis industry as a backdrop. The discussion highlights the pitfalls of assuming uniformity across state lines, covering critical topics like wage differences, tax liabilities, and non-compete agreements. Alexander emphasizes the importance of understanding each state's unique regulations to avoid costly legal issues. He also introduces the concept of fractional general counsel and the benefits of creating playbooks and contract cheat sheets to streamline operations and ensure compliance. This episode is a must-listen for business owners looking to expand their operations while minimizing legal risks. Key Timestamps: 00:01 – Introduction 00:35 – Challenges of State Expansion 01:14 – Common Misconceptions in Business Expansion 02:09 – Alexander's Cannabis Business Experience 03:17 – Wage and Leave Differences Across States 04:57 – Non-Compete Agreements in Different Jurisdictions 05:49 – Tax Implications of Multi-State Operations 07:06 – Understanding Nexus and Its Implications 08:32 – Major Mistakes Businesses Make 09:27 – Creating Playbooks for Compliance 11:20 – Benefits of Fractional General Counsel 14:44 – Costs of Non-Compliance and Legal Risks About the Show: The Law By Leo Podcast is designed for business owners, entrepreneurs, and professionals navigating the complexities of regulated industries. Hosted by attorney Alexander Leonowicz, the podcast offers practical legal insights and strategies to help listeners manage compliance, structure growth, and mitigate risks. Each episode delves into real-world challenges and solutions, providing valuable guidance for those looking to expand their businesses while staying within the bounds of the law. With a focus on clarity and actionable advice, The Law By Leo Podcast is an essential resource for anyone operating in tightly controlled markets.
Jul 22

Psilocybin In Michigan: The Legal Landscape

Episode Summary: In this episode of The Law by Leo Podcast, host Sean O'Connor sits down with attorney Alexander Leonowicz, a partner at Howard and Howard Attorneys, to explore the evolving legal landscape of psilocybin in Michigan. Alexander, with over 20 years of experience in corporate law and high compliance industries such as cannabis, breaks down the complexities surrounding psilocybin's decriminalization in several Michigan cities. He explains the crucial differences between decriminalization and legalization, highlighting the potential legal pitfalls for consumers and businesses alike. The discussion covers the federal classification of psilocybin, its comparison to cannabis, and the implications for business owners operating in this gray area. Alexander also shares insights into the legislative efforts in Michigan and the role of research in shaping future policies. This episode is essential for anyone interested in the intersection of law, business, and emerging industries, providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the current and future legal environment of psilocybin. Key Timestamps: 00:01 – Introduction 0:14 – Michigan's Psilocybin Decriminalization 1:25 – Current Legal Status in Michigan 2:57 – Decriminalization vs. Legalization Explained 4:32 – City-Specific Decriminalization 5:27 – Federal vs. State Law on Psilocybin 6:09 – DEA's Increased Psilocybin Research 7:41 – Comparison to Cannabis Legalization 9:01 – Michigan Legislative Efforts 10:51 – Other States Leading the Charge 12:13 – Consumer Considerations and Risks 14:14 – Business Risks and Legal Exposure 16:00 – Fractional General Counsel Services About the Show: The Law by Leo Podcast is designed for business owners, entrepreneurs, and legal enthusiasts interested in navigating the complexities of law in emerging industries. Hosted by Sean O'Connor, the show features in-depth discussions with experienced attorneys like Alexander Leonowicz, offering insights into high compliance sectors such as cannabis, psilocybin, and other regulated markets. The podcast aims to demystify legal challenges and provide actionable advice, ensuring listeners are well-equipped to make informed decisions. With a focus on clarity and practical solutions, The Law by Leo Podcast is your go-to resource for understanding the legal landscape in today's dynamic business environment.

*Law By Leo Podcast* focuses on exploring the legal landscape of emerging industries, featuring in-depth discussions with entrepreneurs, legal experts, and industry leaders. Join us as we delve into the world of high compliance sectors and uncover valuable insights for business growth and success.

Creator

lawbyleopodcast
Years Active

2026
Episodes

14
Rating

Clean
Copyright

© Copyright 2026 All rights reserved.
Show Website

The Law By Leo Podcast