E16 - How Biglaw Can and Should Partner with Early Stage Startups, with Ilona Logvinova and Evan Shenkman

In this engaging conversation, Ilona and Evan discuss their roles and experiences in leading innovation within their respective law firms, Cleary Gottlieb and Fisher Phillips. Ilona, the Director of Practice Innovation at Cleary, shares her journey from McKinsey to leading a transformation journey at Cleary. Evan, the Chief Knowledge and Innovation Officer at Fisher Phillips, talks about his shift from labor and employment law into knowledge management and legal technology. The discussion covers their strategies for partnering with early-stage companies, the impact of generative AI on the legal industry, the importance of being thought leaders, and the challenges and opportunities of incorporating AI into legal practices. They also delve into the long-term benefits of working with startups, AI governance, and the future trajectory of AI in redefining the value proposition of the legal profession.    Topics discussed: IIona's Journey and Role at Cleary Evan's Career Path and Role at Fisher Phillips  The Impact of Generative AI on Legal Tech  Pre-Generative AI Adoption Strategies  Evaluating Startups and Early Partnerships  Risk Management and AI Governance  Learn More: Ilona - https://www.pli.edu/faculty/ilona-logvinova-i2002979 Evan - https://www.fisherphillips.com/en/people/evan-shenkman.html Zach - https://www.legallydisrupted.com/   Follow Along: Ilona - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ilonalogvinova Evan - https://www.linkedin.com/in/evan-shenkman-5445123 Zach - linkedin.com/in/zachabramowitz