Leading the Bar

Legal Talk Network
  • 5.0 (4)
  • CAREERS
  • UPDATED MONTHLY

Bar presidents share strategies, tools and insights for attorneys growing into leadership roles. Learn from real stories of growth, crisis management, and innovation in NCBP's Leading the Bar podcast. Listen monthly for compelling stories the next generation of lawyer-leaders can use to develop skills, confidence, and vision to lead with purpose and integrity.

  1. Equal Standing: Judges and Lawyers as Partners in the Bar

    APR 6

    Equal Standing: Judges and Lawyers as Partners in the Bar

    Strengthening relationships between the bench and the bar is essential to the health of our legal system and the effectiveness of professional collaboration, but achieving that alignment is not always straightforward. Building on their plenary session at the NCBP Midyear Meeting, Judges Bridget Duignan and Ann Keele join us to go into greater depth on strategies for fostering stronger cooperation within bar associations among both lawyers and judges. They emphasize the importance of engaging in bar service as equals, elevating peers into leadership roles, and remaining grounded in the mission and purpose of the association. Later, drawing on their experiences as women in leadership, Bridget and Ann share their perspectives on the evolving role of women in the legal profession. They reflect on shifting attitudes, and offer practical ways to support and empower women in law. They also provide a thoughtful vision of effective leadership—one rooted in inclusivity, intentional space-making, principled neutrality, and a steadfast commitment to the oath and ideals of the profession. To learn more about NCBP or to become a member, visit ncbp.org

    39 min
  2. Discussion with Tekey Wallace, President Elect of the Military Spouse JD Network (MSJDN)

    MAR 16 ·  BONUS

    Discussion with Tekey Wallace, President Elect of the Military Spouse JD Network (MSJDN)

    This bonus episode of Leading the Bar features a special installment from the Council of Firsts series, which spotlights trailblazing leaders who were the “first” to break barriers in their bar associations. ----- In this episode of the Council of Firsts, Amanda Arriaga, first Latina president of the Austin Bar, talks to Tekey Wallace, President-Elect of the Military Spouse JD Network (MSJDN) and a National Conference of Bar Presidents (NCBP) Diversity Scholar. This episode was recorded at the American Bar Association/National Conference of Bar Presidents meeting in Louisville, Kentucky. Did you know there are lawyers who are Military spouses who need support too? To get more information, sign up, or donate to MSJDN, visit MSJDN.org. To learn more about NOU, visit CONTACT US – NOU (shopluxep.com). To learn more about NCBP, visit https://ncbp.org/

    22 min
  3. Remembering the Promise of the Declaration of Independence

    MAR 2

    Remembering the Promise of the Declaration of Independence

    At the NCBP’s Midyear Meeting in San Antonio, Amanda Arriaga sat down with conference speaker Michael Ariens, professor at St. Mary’s School of Law, for a deeper discussion on law, democracy, and ways to engage with the challenges we see in both the legal profession and our society at large. They discuss the relevance of the Declaration of Independence as we celebrate its 250th anniversary and wrestle with the concepts of liberty and equality in the present day. Professor Ariens emphasized the vital role of legal professionals in strengthening the rule of law and fostering constructive, civil discourse when tackling difficult community issues. In addition, Amanda and NCBP President Patrick Palace recap the NCBP Midyear Meeting held in San Antonio.   Sign the Pledge: NCBP Pledge - National Conference of Bar Presidents

    37 min
  4. Presidential Check-In – A Conversation with Patrick Palace

    FEB 2

    Presidential Check-In – A Conversation with Patrick Palace

    Six months into his presidency, Patrick Palace joins host Amanda Arriaga for a candid check-in on his leadership, priorities, and vision for the future. Patrick reflects on the path that led him to the practice of law and the values that continue to shape his work, especially his dedication to preserving the independence and integrity of the legal profession. The conversation explores his efforts to create engaging, meaningful programs that make learning enjoyable for lawyers, as well as the mission behind the Leading the Bar podcast as a platform for thoughtful leadership. Patrick also discusses the Pledge to Preserve the Independence of the Legal Profession and the Judicial System and why this oath matters now more than ever. Looking ahead, Patrick shares what’s next for the remainder of his term, including his hope to support regulators with resources and guidance, and preparing for the NCBP’s two upcoming conferences—the Midyear and Annual meetings. Learn more: National Conference of Bar Presidents 2026 NCBP Midyear Meeting Sign the Pledge!

    33 min
  5. Discussion with Kathleen Wilkinson of the Pennsylvania Bar Association

    JAN 20 ·  BONUS

    Discussion with Kathleen Wilkinson of the Pennsylvania Bar Association

    This bonus episode of Leading the Bar features a special installment from the Council of Firsts series, which spotlights trailblazing leaders who were the “first” to break barriers in their bar associations. In the next episode of the Council of Firsts, Amanda Arriaga, first Latina president of the Austin Bar, talks to Kathleen Wilkinson, past president of the Pennsylvania Bar Association and past chancellor of the Philadelphia Bar Association. She was also the first female president of the Villanova J. Willard O’Brien Inn of Court. This episode was recorded at the American Bar Association/National Conference of Bar Presidents meeting in Louisville, Kentucky. You can find Kathleen in the Philadelphia office of Wilson Esler. To learn more about NCBP, visit https://ncbp.org YouTube https://youtu.be/wuKaCJ-N1EU

    21 min
  6. Leading with Purpose: Nate Alder on Service and Stewardship

    JAN 5

    Leading with Purpose: Nate Alder on Service and Stewardship

    Leadership doesn’t always come naturally; it is a skill developed through service, mentorship, and a deep commitment to others. In this episode, Amanda Arriaga and Patrick Palace welcome Nate Alder, a longtime leader in multiple associations, including the NCBP. Drawing on his many years of service, Nate shares insights that deepen our understanding of how to lead with humility and a genuine commitment to stewarding and elevating the next generation of leaders in the legal profession. Nate Alder is a shareholder at Christensen & Jensen, where he litigates, tries, and resolves complex civil cases.

    52 min

  7. 12/15/2025 ·  BONUS

    Discussion with Melissa Johnson, Past President of the San Diego Bar Association

    This bonus episode of Leading the Bar features a special installment from the Council of Firsts series, which spotlights trailblazing leaders who were the “first” to break barriers in their bar associations. In the next episode of the Council of Firsts, Amanda Arriaga, first Latina president of the Austin Bar, talks to Melissa Johnson, Past President of the San Diego Bar Association and Executive Council member of the National Conference of Bar Presidents (NCBP). This episode was recorded at the American Bar Association/ National Conference of Bar Presidents meeting in Louisville, Kentucky. To learn more about NCBP, visit https://ncbp.org

    18 min
  8. Women Leading the Way: Conversations with NCBP Trailblazers

    12/01/2025

    Women Leading the Way: Conversations with NCBP Trailblazers

    The National Council of Bar Presidents has had only 10 female presidents in its 75-year history, but women have become increasingly prominent in leadership in recent decades. In this episode, Amanda Arriaga speaks with three of the NCBP’s female presidents about their leadership experiences and their efforts to advance diversity within the profession. They underscore the importance of leaders cultivating strong relationships and acting as a source of encouragement and support for those who follow in their footsteps. Kay Hodge served as NCBP President from 2007-2008 and was also its first Asian president. She is also a Past-President of the Massachusetts Bar Association. Mary Torres served as NCBP President from 2009-2010 and was its first Hispanic female president. She was also the first Hispanic female President of the New Mexico Bar Association.  Karol Corbin Walker served as NCBP President from 2012-2013 and was its first African American female president. She was also the first African American President of the New Jersey State Bar Association.

    38 min
See All (18)

Trailer

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Bar presidents share strategies, tools and insights for attorneys growing into leadership roles. Learn from real stories of growth, crisis management, and innovation in NCBP's Leading the Bar podcast. Listen monthly for compelling stories the next generation of lawyer-leaders can use to develop skills, confidence, and vision to lead with purpose and integrity.

Information

  • Creator
    Legal Talk Network
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    18
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Legal Talk Network
  • Show Website
    Leading the Bar

You Might Also Like