The Columbia Bond Team Reflects on 2025 and Looks Ahead to 2026

Welcome to a very special episode of Stronger Bonds, where we’re pulling back the curtain and inviting you behind the scenes with the entire Columbia Bond team. For our end-of-season episode, Emily and Ray are joined in the studio by colleagues Emily Zackon and Ryan Romano for the first time, making this a true team affair.

In this candid and lighthearted conversation, you’ll get to know the voices you may have only heard about in passing—the “other Emily” (Emily Zackon), a dedicated bond attorney and mom of two, and Ryan Romano, whose journey brought him from Georgia to Columbia and into the specialized world of government finance law. Together, the team reflects on their favorite moments and challenging deals from the past year, shares unexpected twists—both in the legal world and at the lunch counter—and even recounts some of their funniest and goofiest experiences, like a memorable hypnotist conference and office snack mishaps.

But it’s not all laughs; there’s thoughtful reflection on professional growth, team traditions, and what’s coming up for 2026—including their hopes for more efficient workflows, more technical mini-episodes, and maybe even Stronger Bonds swag.

Whether you’re a longtime listener, a fellow practitioner, or just curious about the real life of bond lawyers, this episode is full of stories, gratitude, and a look ahead—with a few surprises along the way. Join us as the Columbia Bond team closes out 2025 and sets the stage for what’s next.

Parker Poe - Government & Municipalities

Emily Luther

Ray Jones

Emily Zackon

Ryan Romano

Parker Poe - Government & Municipalities

Emily Luther

Ray Jones

Do you have a question, a topic idea, or a request? Please email us at StrongerBonds@parkerpoe.com.

Stronger Bonds is recorded and produced by Robby Woodard.

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