ArkBarOnAir: President's Mic

In this episode of Ark Bar On Air: President’s Mic, Arkansas Bar Association President Jamie Jones Walsworth sits down with Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC) Director Marty Sullivan and Court Information Systems Division Director Tim Holthoff for a behind-the-scenes look at the technology, innovation, and leadership shaping Arkansas’s judicial system.The conversation explores the AOC’s role in supporting courts across Arkansas, from judicial education and court administration to statewide technology initiatives that improve access to justice. Sullivan and Holthoff discuss Arkansas’s nationally recognized court technology systems, the evolution of electronic filing and public court access, and the development of a next-generation case management platform designed to modernize court operations for judges, lawyers, court staff, and the public.Listeners will also hear how emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, may transform court administration, enhance efficiency, and improve public access to information while maintaining security and trust in the judicial system. The episode also highlights the Arkansas Judiciary’s new Civics Education Center, an innovative space dedicated to teaching students and citizens about government, the rule of law, and the courts’ role in a democratic society.Whether you are a practicing attorney, law student, judge, or simply interested in the future of Arkansas courts, this episode offers valuable insight into the people and technology working behind the scenes to keep justice moving forward.Guests:Marty Sullivan, Director, Arkansas Administrative Office of the Courts Tim Holthoff, Director, Court Information Systems Division, Arkansas Administrative Office of the CourtsPodcast Pre-Roll Post - Roll

In Part II of the Arkansas Bar Association’s discussion of The Anxious Generation, host Jamie Huffman Jones and guests Jennifer Donaldson (Arkansas JLAP), Meredith Lowry (Wright, Lindsey & Jennings), and Duke Law Professor Casey Mock examine the second half of Jonathan Haidt’s bestselling book and its implications for lawyers, parents, educators, policymakers, and communities. The conversation explores Haidt’s concept of the “great rewiring of childhood,” including the effects of smartphones, social media, sleep deprivation, attention fragmentation, and platform design on young people’s mental health. The panel discusses how technology companies collect and use data, the growing concerns surrounding AI, online privacy, addictive design features, and emerging litigation involving social media platforms. The episode also focuses on solutions. Topics include phone-free schools, delayed access to social media, restoring independent play and real-world experiences for children, age verification laws, privacy protections, and the role of lawyers in shaping public policy as technology continues to outpace existing legal frameworks. Whether you are a lawyer, parent, educator, or community leader, this episode offers practical insights and thought-provoking discussion on one of the most important issues facing the next generation. Guests: Jennifer Donaldson, Arkansas Judges and Lawyers Assistance Program (JLAP)  Meredith Lowry, Wright, Lindsey & Jennings  Casey Mock, Duke Law School and Public Policy Advisor for The Anxious GenerationLearn more at the Arkansas Bar Association Annual Meeting, where Casey Mock will join the main stage discussion on June 11 at Oaklawn.Podcast Pre-Roll Post - Roll

This episode will focus on defining CliftonStrengths and the benefits of getting people excited about it for the Arkansas Annual Meeting. Description: Discover what CliftonStrengths is, why it matters, and how it can immediately improve the way you lead, collaborate, and communicate. In this episode, we break down the basics, how Strengths are defined, what a “Strengths-based” approach really looks like in practice, and why teams that lean into natural talent tend to perform better and burn out less.Whether you’ve already taken the assessment or you’re brand new to it, you’ll walk away with practical ways to recognize your own strengths, better understand others, and apply the results in your day-to-day work. Tune in ahead of the Arkansas Annual Meeting to get a quick, energizing primer, and a few simple takeaways you can start using right away.Also, be sure to check out The CliftonStrengths podcast: hereGuest Speakers• Nicole Benjamin — President, Rhode Island Bar Association• Abby Burnep — COO and Former Director of Training• Traci Adedeji — CliftonStrengths Coach• Judge Shawn Johnson — Arkansas Judge and Arkansas Bar Annual Meeting PlannerPodcast Pre-Roll Post - Roll

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In this episode of ArkBar OnAir: President’s Mic, Arkansas Bar Association President Jamie Jones Walsworth leads a timely and thought-provoking discussion of The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt.Focusing on the first half of the book, the conversation explores Haidt’s central argument that around 2010, childhood fundamentally shifted, from a play-based experience to a phone-based one. Panelists examine the corresponding rise in anxiety, depression, and self-harm among teenagers, and consider what this shift means for families, professionals, and society as a whole.Bringing together perspectives from law, mental health, communications, and lived experience, the discussion balances research with real-world insight, particularly through the voices of parents and a member of the generation most impacted. Together, the group reflects on how technology is shaping childhood, the challenges it presents, and the role adults play in navigating this evolving landscape.This episode sets the stage for a continued conversation, with Part 2 focusing on the remainder of the book and deeper implications for the future.Featured Guest:Natalie Ghidotti – Founder & CEO, Ghidotti CommunicationsJennifer Donaldson – Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Arkansas Judges and Lawyers Assistance Program (JLAP)Arden “AJ” Jones – Student, representing the Gen Z/teen perspective    Podcast Pre-Roll Post - Roll

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In this opening session of our book club podcast, Bill Waddell leads a thoughtful discussion of The Devil in the Grove, focusing on the book’s historical foundations and its continued relevance today. As the group begins with Chapters 1–6, the conversation explores key themes raised in the book, including the role of lawyers in moments of racial injustice, the moral demands of advocacy, and the social context in which civil rights struggles unfold. The discussion also considers how the book (written before the rise of the Black Lives Matter movement) reads differently in light of more recent developments, including renewed debate and resistance around civil rights. Drawing on historical parallels, literary context, and personal reflection, this episode sets the stage for a deeper, multi-session conversation about why these stories still matter and what they ask of lawyers and citizens today. Guest Name:   William “Bill” Waddell; Judge Joyce Williams Warren; Abby Brenneman; and Jonathan WarrenPodcast Pre-Roll Post - Roll

Host Jamie Jones Walsworth sits down with John Wilkerson, General Counsel and Legislative Director for the Arkansas Municipal League, to unpack the recent amendments to Rule 702. Together, they explore the rule’s implications for Arkansas municipalities, how the changes may affect expert testimony in litigation, and what attorneys need to know to navigate the updated standards. Podcast Pre-Roll Post - Roll

Need a quick reset between hearings, deadlines, or difficult conversations? In this special standalone bonus episode, attorney and mindfulness teacher Claire Parsons guides listeners through a calming body scan meditation designed to be reused anytime—at your desk, at home, or wherever you can take a few quiet minutes.Claire begins by helping you set up a safe, comfortable environment, then leads you step-by-step through noticing physical sensations from head to toe—releasing tension in common stress-holding areas like the jaw, shoulders, chest, and belly. The practice is gentle and flexible: you’re encouraged to move past any area that feels uncomfortable and return to the breath whenever needed.This episode is meant to be a practical, repeatable tool for lawyers looking to slow down, reconnect with the body, and support steadier focus and emotional regulation—without needing to “clear your mind” or do anything perfectly.(For additional guided practices and resources, visit BrilliantLegalMind.com or connect with Claire Parsons.)

Arkansas Bar Association President Jamie Jones Walsworth welcomes attorney, author, and wellness advocate Claire Parsons—licensed in Ohio and Kentucky—to talk candidly about stress in legal practice and why mindfulness and meditation are practical tools (even for skeptics). Claire shares her personal path into meditation during early motherhood, postpartum depression recovery, and the pressure of an intense litigation schedule—and how a simple “one minute a day” start helped her build resilience, self-compassion, and focus over time.Together, they break down what mindfulness is (and isn’t), why meditation doesn’t require “shutting your mind off,” and how stress management can actually improve performance, decision-making, and professional confidence—especially through big transitions like firm growth and mergers. Claire also introduces the concept of a body scan meditation, explains how it helps lawyers reconnect with the body, recognize emotions before they escalate, and create space for calmer, more skillful responses.Listeners will also hear where to find Claire’s resources—including her blog, guided meditations, her book How to Be a Badass Lawyer, and opportunities to practice with other attorneys through the Mindfulness in Law Society—plus a reminder to check out the standalone body scan episode for an on-demand mindfulness reset.https://brilliantlegalmind.com/Podcast Pre-Roll Post - Roll

Arkansas Bar Association President Jamie Jones Walsworth sits down with Jennifer Donaldson, Executive Director of the Arkansas Judges and Lawyers Assistance Program (JLAP), for a practical conversation about lawyer wellness—what it looks like in real life, why it matters to clients and the public, and how JLAP can help at every stage (from stress and burnout to depression, anxiety, substance use, and crisis situations).Jennifer breaks down what JLAP is (a confidential program of the Arkansas Supreme Court), what happens when someone reaches out, and how lawyers, judges, and law students can access support—including clinical services, a statewide network of vetted providers, and help navigating higher levels of care when needed. The episode also highlights key findings from JLAP’s 2024 statewide attorney survey and explains the Arkansas Supreme Court’s consideration of a required wellbeing CLE hour—without increasing the total number of required credits—and how attorneys can submit comments before December 31, 2025.If you or a colleague needs support, you can learn more or reach out confidentially at arjlap.org or [email protected] Pre-Roll Post - Roll

In this episode, host Jamie Jones Walsworth sits down with tax attorneys Katie Bingham and Marc Martinez break down the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) and explain what every lawyer, tax or not, should know. From tip income deductions to overtime tax breaks, they unpack the key provisions in plain English and discuss how these changes could impact clients across industries. Whether you practice labor law, employment, or business, this is the tax update you didn’t know you needed. 

In this episode of ArkBar On Air, host Jamie Jones Walsworth sits down with Frank Ramos, nationally recognized attorney, author, and speaker, to discuss the AI Playbook. Together, they explore how artificial intelligence is transforming the legal profession, practical ways attorneys can leverage AI in their practice, and the ethical considerations that come with emerging technology. This conversation offers valuable insights for lawyers seeking to navigate the evolving intersection of law and innovation. Frank RamosPodcast Pre-Roll Post - Roll

In this mini episode of the ArkBar Podcast, host Jamie Jones Walsworth sits down with Abby Brenneman, Executive Director of the Arkansas Access to Justice Commission, to discuss the Commission’s important work in expanding access to legal resources across the state. Abby shares insights on initiatives like FLA and other projects aimed at connecting Arkansans with the legal help they need. Tune in to learn how the Commission is making a meaningful impact in communities statewide.Guest Name:   Abby Brenneman –  Executive Director of Arkansas Access to Justice Commission

Host Jamie Jones leads a cordial, civil point-counterpoint on Arkansas’s Act 28— the new law that limits recovery of past medical expenses to amounts actually paid or owed. Plaintiff lawyers Jessica Virden Mallett (Managing Partner, Miller & Mallett) and Brian Brooks square up with defense lawyers Jason Hendren (Hall Booth Smith P.C.) and Haley Heath Chaney (Gordon Rees Scully Mansukhani) to unpack how Act 28 reshapes pleadings, discovery, settlement leverage, and trial strategy on both sides of the “v.” Practical, balanced, and Arkansas-focused.Guest Name:   Jessica Virden Mallett (Managing Partner, Miller & Mallett)Brian Brooks, Attorney at LawJason Hendren (Hall Booth Smith P.C.)Haley Heath (Gordon Rees Scully Mansukhani) Podcast Pre-Roll Post - Roll

In this short feature, Associate Professor of Business Law Anthony McMullen from the University of Central Arkansas joins us to highlight the impact of Arkansas’s high school Mock Trial program. He shares why volunteering, whether as a judge, coach, or mentor, is a meaningful way for legal professionals to give back and help shape the future of the profession. Tune in to learn how you can get involved. 

In this episode, host Jamie Jones Walsworth is joined by Glen Hoggard, Chair of the Arkansas Bar Association’s Legislative Committee, and Representative Carol Dalby for a timely discussion on the 95th General Assembly. Together, they unpack key legislative developments impacting the legal profession, including updates to the Uniform Commercial Code, trust law, and electronic records. The conversation highlights the Arkansas Bar’s advocacy efforts, successful bill sponsorships, and the collaborative process between lawmakers and legal professionals. Whether you're a practicing attorney or simply interested in how legislation shapes the practice of law in Arkansas, this episode offers valuable insights from both sides of the policymaking process.Podcast Pre-Roll Post - Roll

Ep2 explores how Taylor Swift’s career intersects with the law. Rep. Ashley Hudson and law clerk Emilee Webb join Jamie Jones Walsworth to discuss Swift’s influence on copyright law through her album re-recordings, the evolving legal landscape around artist contracts, and the challenges of AI-generated deep fakes. Brett Milano, Taylor’s Version of copyright, Harvard Law Today (Apr. 3, 2024), https://hls.harvard.edu/today/how-taylor-swift-changed-the-copyright-game-by-remaking-her-own-music/. Amanda Butler Schley, Taylor Swift’s Brilliant Legal Maneuver, Business Law Group (Oct. 24, 2024), https://www.lawgroup.biz/taylor-swift-s-brilliant-legal-maneuver. Taylor Swift, https://www.taylorswift.com.Frank Pallotta, Taylor Swift: Ticketmaster fiasco ‘excruciating for me,’ CNN Business (Nov. 18, 2022), https://www.cnn.com/2022/11/18/media/taylor-swift-ticketmaster/index.html. Trisha Ahmed, Taylor Swift bill is signed into Minnesota law, boosting protections for online ticket buyers, Associated Press News (May 7, 2024), https://apnews.com/article/taylor-swift-minnesota-ticketmaster-f7dcb061368c5e83c0630cf3e1d2516e. Minn. Stat. § 325F.676(2)(a), (c)(1) (2024).Kevin Reagan, Arizona governor signs ‘Taylor Swift’ bill, setting restrictions on buying concert tickets, 12 News (Apr. 11, 2024), https://www.12news.com/article/news/politics/taylor-swift-bill-signed-arizona-governor-banning-bots-from-disrupting-ticket-sales/75-116133d5-0c61-4ee1-8047-e24a5d414206. Press Release, U.S. Department of Justice, Justice Department Sues Live Nation-Ticketmaster for Monopolizing Markets Across the Live Concern Industry (May 23, 2024). Leah Sarnoff, Taylor Swift and No AI Fraud Act: How Congress plans to fight back against AI deepfakes, ABC News (Jan. 30, 2024), https://abcnews.go.com/US/taylor-swift-ai-fraud-act-congress-plans-fight/story?id=106765709. Julia Sturges, Taylor Swift, Deepfakes, and the First Amendment: Changing the Legal Landscape for Victims on Non-consensual Artificial Pornography, XXV, Issue 2 Geo. J.G.L. (2024), https://www.law.georgetown.edu/gender-journal/online/volume-xxv-online/taylor-swift-deepfakes-and-the-first-amendment-changing-the-legal-landscape-for-victims-of-non-consensual-artificial-pornography/.Miller v. California, 354 U.S. 476, 485 (1957 No AI Fraud Act, H.R. 6943, 118th Cong. (2023-2024). TAKE IT DOWN Act, S. 146, 119th Cong. (2025). Taylor Swift awarded $1 in groping trial, CBS News (Aug. 14, 2017), https://www.cbsnews.com/news/taylor-swift-awarded-1dollar-in-groping-trial/. Taylor Swift, Look What You Made Me Do, YouTube (Aug. 27, 2017), https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3tmd-ClpJxA. Taylor Swift sexual assault case: Why is it significant?, BBC (Aug. 15, 2017), https://www.bbc.com/news/entertainment-arts-40937429. Podcast Pre-Roll Post - Roll

Preview the newly released podcast ArkBarOnAir: The President's Mic here. 

In this inaugural episode, Jamie Jones explores the growing influence of artificial intelligence in the legal profession, joined by guests Meredith Lowry of Wright Lindsey Jennings and Devin Bates of Mitchell Williams. The discussion covers national and local trends, the work of the Arkansas Bar Association’s AI Task Force, and what the proposed rule means for everyday legal practice, helping Arkansas lawyers stay informed, compliant, and empowered.Podcast Pre-Roll Post - Roll