Lowenstein Sandler's Women's Initiative Podcast: Real Talk

In this episode of Women's Initiative Network: Real Talk, Melissa Leidl, Lowenstein's Senior Manager of Entry Level Recruiting, joins host Alessandra M. Moore in the first edition of "The Legal Launchpad" a Real Talk subseries featuring candid conversations about careers in law, the legal profession, and what it takes to succeed. Leidl and Moore share expectations and advice for summer associates, emphasizing the importance of seizing all opportunities throughout the summer.   Speakers: Alessandra M. Moore, Associate, White Collar Defense Group Melissa Leidl, Senior Manager of Entry Level Recruiting

In this episode of Real Talk's "Coffee Chats with WIN," hosts Jessica I. Stewart and Lauren N. Russell chat with Kathryn A. Daniel about the value in positivity and approachability as a junior associate. Kathryn highlights her adventurous spirit through her career journey, studying in Norway for graduate school before pivoting to law, as well as through her personal interests and experiences, including climbing Mount Kilimanjaro and her love of coffee.   Speakers: Jessica I. Stewart, Associate, Executive Compensation and Employee Benefits Lauren N. Russell, Associate, Emerging Companies and Venture Capital Kathryn Daniel, Associate, Trusts and Estates

In this episode of Real Talk's "Coffee Chats with WIN," hosts Jessica I. Stewart and Lauren N. Russell chat with Rachel Moseson Dikovics and Mikayla R. Berliner about pivoting from their initial career paths to go to law school. They share the qualities they seek in team members, dabble in advice for women in demanding careers, and, as always, reveal their go-to coffee orders.   Speakers: Jessica I. Stewart, Associate, Executive Compensation and Employee Benefits Lauren N. Russell, Associate, Emerging Companies and Venture Capital Rachel Moseson Dikovics, Counsel, White Collar Defense Mikayla R. Berliner, Associate, White Collar Defense

In this special 50th episode of The Women's Initiative Network: Real Talk, original hosts Nicole Fulfree, Megan Monson, and Rachel Moseson Dikovics are joined by Amanda K. Cipriano to reflect on the podcast's evolution. From standout moments to key takeaways, they explore how authenticity and vulnerability can work to challenge outdated workplace norms and build stronger, more meaningful connections among women. To another 50 episodes of Real Talk! Speakers: Nicole Fulfree, Partner, Bankruptcy & Restructuring Megan Monson, Partner, Executive Compensation, Employment, and Benefits Rachel Moseson Dikovics, Counsel, White Collar Defense Group Amanda K. Cipriano, Associate, White Collar Criminal Defense 

In this special episode of Real Talk's "Coffee Chats with WIN," hosts Jessica I. Stewart and Lauren N. Russell chat with the Chair of Lowenstein's Insurance Recovery Group and founder of WIN Lynda A. Bennett. Bennett shares her introduction to insurance law and how WIN has evolved over the last 11 years. She also lends advice on developing your own leadership style, reveals the foundation of mentor-mentee relationships, and, of course, details her caffeine of choice.    Speakers: Lynda A. Bennett, Partner and Chair, Insurance Recovery Jessica Stewart, Associate, Executive Compensation and Employee Benefits Lauren N. Russell, Associate, Emerging Companies and Venture Capital

In this episode of Real Talk's "Coffee Chats with WIN," hosts Jessica I. Stewart and Lauren N. Russell chat with Megan Monson and Laura Cicirelli about their career paths, as they demonstrate that no legal career trajectory is the same. They share their biggest career risks, advice to junior lawyers, and, of course, how they take their coffee—or tea.   Speakers: Laura Cicirelli, Partner, Emerging Companies & Venture Capital Megan Monson, Partner, Executive Compensation, Employment, and Benefits Jessica Stewart, Associate, Executive Compensation and Employee Benefits Lauren N. Russell, Associate, Emerging Companies and Venture Capital

In this episode of Real Talk's "Coffee Chats with WIN," hosts Jessica I. Stewart and Lauren N. Russell chat with partners Julia E. Sanabria and Nicole Fulfree about their career trajectories, career risks, and most importantly, how they take their coffee.   Speakers: Julia E. Sanabria, Partner, Real Estate Nicole Fulfree, Partner, Bankruptcy & Restructuring Jessica Stewart, Associate, Executive Compensation and Employee Benefits Lauren N. Russell, Associate, Emerging Companies and Venture Capital

In this episode of Women's Initiative Network: Real Talk, hosts Jessica I. Stewart and Lauren N. Russell introduce a new series, "Coffee Chats with WIN," where the hosts invite inspiring women to talk candidly about the choices, challenges, and moments that have shaped their careers. Stewart and Russell chat with Nina R. Rodriguez and Julie Levinson Werner about their career trajectories, career risks, and most importantly, how they take their coffee.   Speakers: Julie Levinson Werner, Partner, Vice Chair, Employment Jessica Stewart, Associate, Executive Compensation and Employee Benefits Lauren N. Russell, Associate, Emerging Companies and Venture Capital Nina Rodriguez, Law Clerk at the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey

In this episode of Women's Initiative Network: Real Talk, hosts Megan Monson, Rachel Moseson Dikovics, and Lauren N. Russell discuss how best to leverage the mid-point in your career when you are no longer junior, but not yet senior. The conversation assesses the expectation to balance roles as both mentor and mentee as well as adjusting to new responsibilities and coming to terms with your own expertise. Speakers: Megan Monson, Partner, Executive Compensation, Employment, and BenefitsRachel Moseson Dikovics, Associate, Executive Compensation and Employee Benefits Lauren N. Russell, Associate, Emerging Companies and Venture Capital

In this episode of Real Talk, Julie Levinson Werner, Markiana J. Julceus, and Lauren N. Russell join host Jessica I. Stewart to discuss working with multiple generations in the workplace. They discuss fundamental differences in how generations approach work-life balance, communication methods, and connecting with colleagues both generally and at Lowenstein Sandler specifically. Speakers: Julie Levinson Werner, Partner, Vice Chair, EmploymentMarkiana Julceus, Counsel, White Collar DefenseJessica Stewart, Associate, Executive Compensation and Employee Benefits Lauren N. Russell, Associate, Emerging Companies and Venture Capital

In this episode of "Real Talk," host Megan Monson sits down with partner Julia E. Sanabria and Kerry A. Lunz, Lowenstein's Director of Recruiting and Integration, to cover lateral career moves for women in the legal field from both a recruiting and candidacy perspective. Lunz walks listeners through the recruiting and integration processes, highlighting key considerations for candidates making a lateral move. Sanabria then shares her experience transitioning to Lowenstein, discussing her approach to client relationships and how she acclimated to the firm. Speakers: Megan Monson, Partner, Executive Compensation, Employment, and Benefits Julia E. Sanabria, Partner, Real EstateKerry A. Lunz, Director of Recruiting and Integration

In this episode of Real Talk, Leah R. Duggins, legal counsel and administrative director for the Litigation Department; Patti Scott, Lowenstein's director of professional development; and Sarah Scott, Lowenstein's associate general counsel, join Megan Monson and Diane Moss to share their personal career trajectories and illustrate that no legal career is alike. From conventional pursuits to partnership or pivots to non-practicing roles, the guests' career stories support that there are multiple ways to leverage a law degree.  The guests offer advice to listeners at a career crossroads on listening to their gut and making career decisions without placing undue emphasis on traditional expectations or outside opinions. Speakers: Megan Monson, Partner, Executive Compensation, Employee BenefitsDiane Moss, Counsel, Emerging Companies & Venture CapitalLeah Duggins, Legal Counsel Administrative Director, LitigationSarah Scott, Associate General CounselPatti Scott, Director of Professional Development

In this episode of Real Talk, Megan Monson chats with Lowenstein attorneys Melissa K. Parres and Bonnie E. Schipper about the valuable, transferrable skills women learn from playing competitive sports. Melissa and Bonnie share their personal team sports experiences from childhood to present day and how such experiences honed skills in leadership, teamwork, collaborative competition, and self-advocacy that they leverage in their careers as corporate attorneys.  Speakers: Megan Monson, Partner, Executive Compensation, Employee BenefitsMelissa K. Parres, Counsel, Mergers & AcquisitionsBonnie E. Schipper, Associate, Corporate

In this episode of Real Talk, hosts Rachel Moseson Dikovics and Alessandra M. Moore sit down with Karen Kessler, powerhouse CEO of Kessler PR Group, to explore her remarkable journey from a young professional penning cold networking letters to a trusted advisor leading one of the nation's premier crisis communications firms.  Karen shares how she built her firm from the ground up, discusses the nuances of managing public perception at the intersection of law and media, and offers advice ranging from the art of strategic networking to maintain perspective when balancing work and personal lives.   Speakers: Rachel Moseson Dikovics, Counsel, White Collar Defense Group Alessandra M. Moore, Associate, White Collar Defense Group Karen Kessler, Chief Executive Officer, Kessler PR Group

In this episode of "Real Talk," hosts Megan Monson and Rachel Moseson Dikovics talk with Alessandra M. Moore about mentorship and sponsorship  – inspired by the lyrics of the Wicked song "Popular" – by sharing their own experiences on both sides of each role. They emphasize the importance of building relationships with individuals who will publicly vouch for you and privately guide you and offer advice to junior professionals who want to build their mentorship and sponsorship relationships. Speakers: Megan Monson, Partner, Executive Compensation, Employee BenefitsRachel Moseson Dikovics, Counsel, White Collar Criminal DefenseAlessandra M. Moore, Associate, White Collar Criminal Defense

In this episode of "Real Talk," host, Megan Monson, partner in Lowenstein Sandler's Executive Compensation Employment and Benefits Practice Group, talks with Robin Goldfischer, senior vice president and general counsel at Valley Health System, about her career path, how she manages her own work-life balance, and the importance of knowing when you don't know the answer. Robin says that her 40 years of experience in the practice of law has taught her many important lessons, including that learning is a continuous process, there is value in being kind, and professional women must advocate for each other. Speakers: Megan Monson, Partner, Executive Compensation, Employee BenefitsRobin L. Goldfischer, Senior Vice President & General Counsel, Valley Health System, Inc.

In this episode of Real Talk, host Megan Monson chats with Patricia A. Barbieri, Esq., Special Advisor at Daiichi Sankyo, about her career path from paralegal to general counsel and all the steps in between. As she contemplates her upcoming retirement, Pat shares the lessons she has learned along the way and offers advice on ignoring negative self-talk, making (and learning from) mistakes, and being nimble when life goes differently than you initially planned. Speakers: Megan Monson, Partner, Executive Compensation, Employee Benefits Patricia A. Barbieri, Esq., Special Advisor, Daiichi Sankyo

In this episode of "Real Talk," Lowenstein lawyers Megan Monson, Nicole Fulfree, and Rachel Moseson Dikovics discuss the Surgeon General's recent advisory titled "Parents Under Pressure," which described the state of American parents' mental health as "an urgent public health issue." They share their own experiences in trying to balance the demanding roles of woman, attorney, and mother, and offer advice to working parents and their employers.  Speakers: Megan Monson, Partner, Executive Compensation, Employee BenefitsNicole Fulfree, Partner, Bankruptcy & RestructuringRachel Moseson Dikovics, Associate, White Collar Criminal Defense

Today on " Real Talk," Rachel Moseson Dikovics, Amanda K. Cipriano, Brianna M. Ferrante, and Jessica I. Kriegsfeld discuss what law firm life looks like to associates who joined the practice of law during or after COVID. Lawyers who graduated law school in 2020 and after describe the challenges of returning to the office, including practicing time management, forming relationships with potential mentors, and balancing both working from home and being in the office. They also talk about the benefits of hybrid schedules and the importance of technology in effectively navigating the modern workplace.   Speakers: Rachel Moseson Dikovics, Associate, White Collar Criminal Defense  Amanda K. Cipriano, Associate, White Collar Criminal Defense   Brianna M. Ferrante, Associate, Mergers & Acquisitions Jessica Kriegsfeld, Associate, Executive Compensation and Employee Benefits

  In this episode of "Real Talk,"  Nicole Fulfree, Megan Monson, Julia E. Sanabria, and Rachel Moseson Dikovics tackle the subject of microaggressions: comments or actions that subtly and often unconsciously or unintentionally expose a prejudiced attitude towards a member of a marginalized group. Women who experience microaggressions at work are 4.2 times more likely to feel burned out, 3.3 times more likely to consider leaving their company and 3.8 times more likely to feel that they don't have an equal opportunity to advance. The hosts discuss what microaggressions are, a range of different circumstances and intentions that can give rise to these situations and offer tips on navigating these instances when they occur.  Speakers: Nicole Fulfree, Partner, Bankruptcy & RestructuringMegan Monson, Partner, Executive Compensation, Employment & Benefits Julia E. Sanabria, Partner, Real Estate Rachel Moseson Dikovics, Associate, White Collar Criminal Defense 

This episode of "Real Talk"  features a discussion with Nicole Fulfree, Megan Monson, Kristin V. Taylor, and Rachel Moseson Dikovics about whether the self-promotion gender gap—a concept explored by researchers at Harvard and Wharton—really exists, and to what extent professional women may be disproportionately impacted by its repercussions. The hosts discuss why some women might shy away from taking credit, explore the societal and cultural reasons women may approach self-promotion a bit differently, and provide suggestions for women on increasing visibility at work without feeling cringey.   Episode Resources: The Gender Gap in Self-Promotion – National Bureau of Economic Research Women Don't Self-Promote, But Maybe They Should – Harvard Division of Continuing Education Rent the Runway Is Giving $1 Million in Monthly Subscriptions to Women Celebrating Career Wins on LinkedIn Speakers: Nicole Fulfree, Partner, Bankruptcy & Restructuring Megan Monson, Partner, Executive Compensation, Employment & Benefits Kristin V. Taylor, Partner, Tax, Private Client Services Rachel Moseson Dikovics, Associate, White Collar Criminal Defense 

In this episode of "Real Talk," Amanda K. Cipriano and Rachel Moseson Dikovics speak with Dr. Traci Cipriano, clinical psychologist, formerly practicing lawyer, and a speaker, executive coach, consultant and author, about emotional intelligence and how it can be used as a professional tool. Dr. Cipriano says that emotional intelligence reflects one's ability to recognize, understand, and manage emotions and use them strategically to influence thinking and behavior; she describes it as an ability to recognize other people's emotions by interacting them, reading the room, and responding appropriately; it also reflects an ability to cope with difficult challenges, especially regarding the workplace, work demands, and work environment. The most effective leaders are high in emotional intelligence, and research suggests that their teams and their organizations are more productive and generate more revenues. Speakers: Rachel Moseson Dikovics, Associate, White Collar Criminal Defense   Amanda K. Cipriano, Associate, White Collar Criminal Defense   Traci Cipriano, JD PhD LLC, Clinical psychologist, formerly practicing lawyer, speaker, executive coach, consultant

Today on "Real Talk," Megan Monson, Nicole Fulfree, and Sarah Cole address the dos and don'ts for women attorneys seeking to develop effective management skills, emphasizing the critical role of emotional intelligence in legal practice. In addition to sharing their personal experiences and opinions on the most effective management styles, the hosts explore some of the hurdles women in law face in acquiring managerial training, discuss the importance of emotional intelligence in fostering teamwork, client relations, and personal growth, and provide practical advice on learning and teaching within the legal profession to enhance both personal and team success. Speakers: Megan Monson, Partner, Employee Benefits & Executive Compensation Nicole Fulfree, Partner, Bankruptcy & Restructuring Sarah Cole, Senior Counsel, Capital Markets & Securities

On today's episode, Rachel Moseson Dikovics, Amanda K. Cipriano, Claire Dronzek, and Lauren Russell discuss Gen Z's perspective of young lawyers on issues such as work-life balance, organizational values, and mentorship. They talk about how COVID impacted attorneys' priorities, and their opinions on flexible schedules, partnership, and the moral values of prospective employers. They also address young professionals' needs to feel valued, have mentors, and for opportunities to share their challenges.  Speakers:  Rachel Moseson Dikovics, Associate, White Collar Criminal DefenseAmanda K. Cipriano, Associate, White Collar Criminal Defense  Claire Dronzek, Associate, Emerging Companies & Venture CapitalLauren Noval Russell, Associate, Corporate

Today on "Real Talk," hosts Megan Monson, Nicole Fulfree, and Rachel Moseson Dikovics are joined by Joann S. Lublin, Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, former management news editor and current regular contributor to The Wall Street Journal, and author of two books on executive women's leadership: Earning It: Hard-Won Lessons from Trailblazing Women at the Top of the Business World, and Power Moms: How Executive Mothers Navigate Work and Life. The women share their personal experiences as mothers in the workplace, how things have and have not changed over the past twenty years, and valuable tips on successfully navigating the demands of parenthood and a career. Speakers: Megan Monson, Partner, Employee Benefits & Executive Compensation Nicole Fulfree, Partner, Bankruptcy & Restructuring Rachel Moseson Dikovics, Associate, White Collar Criminal Defense Joann S. Lublin, Author, Power Moms: How Executive Mothers Navigate Work and Life

Today on "Real Talk," hosts Megan Monson and Diane Moss are joined by  Carol Sutton Lewis, a former practicing attorney who now hosts and produces the award-winning podcast, 'Ground Control Parenting.'  Lewis describes how her legal skills have enhanced her role as a podcaster and parenting expert, and how being a parent has influenced her career and her outlook on life; she encourages listeners to understand that it's not about balancing 'work' and 'life' because "it's all life…don't forget to focus on the joy. " Speakers: Megan Monson, Partner, Employee Benefits & Executive CompensationDiane Moss, Counsel, The Tech GroupCarol Sutton Lewis, Founder, Ground Control Parenting

In today's episode of "Real Talk," Megan Monson, partner in Lowenstein Sandler's Employee Benefits and Executive Compensation practice, speaks with her colleagues Diane Moss, counsel in Lowenstein's Emerging Companies & Venture Capital group, and Lynda A. Bennett, Chair of the firm's Insurance Recovery group, about how lawyers can cultivate their brands so that they stand out amongst competitors, attract potential clients, and foster relationships with existing clients. They describe the benefits of intentionally spending one's non-billable time through involvement with organizations, boards, and groups—both law-related and otherwise; how networking can build transferrable skills such as consensus building and problem solving; and the importance of authenticity. Speakers: Lynda A. Bennett, Partner and Chair, Insurance Recovery Megan Monson, Partner, Employee Benefits & Executive Compensation Diane Moss, Counsel, The Tech Group

In this episode of "Real Talk," the hosts talk with Deirdre Stanley, Executive Vice President and General Counsel of The Estée Lauder Companies, about her career: how she decided to go in-house, her role in the merger between Thomson and Reuters, and her passion for business strategy. Deirdre also addresses the importance of diverse voices having "a seat at the table;" of developing and nurturing relationships through formal and informal venues; of advocating for yourself; and of not taking yourself too seriously. Speakers: Megan Monson, Partner, Employee Benefits & Executive CompensationDiane Moss, Counsel, The Tech GroupDeirdre Stanley, Executive Vice President and General Counsel, The Estée Lauder Companies Inc.

In this episode of "Real Talk," the hosts share their experiences as junior associates and what they wish they had known before starting their careers in Big Law. They offer tips on jumpstarting your career as a summer associate, managing your docket, and how to lay down a foundation for a long and satisfying career.  Speakers: Nicole Fulfree, Partner, Bankruptcy & Restructuring DepartmentChandra Shih, Partner, The Tech GroupAmanda Cipriano, Associate, White Collar Criminal DefenseMegan Williams, Associate, The Tech Group

In this episode of "Real Talk," the hosts talk with Diana Ingallinera Faillace about taking time off from the practice of law, and how to facilitate a smooth return to your career. They emphasize maintaining one's network and technological skills, as well as the importance of confidence and communicating one's entire skill set—not just in legal services but in areas such as time management, organization, and staying calm under pressure.  Speakers: Megan Monson, Partner, Employee Benefits & Executive CompensationAmanda Cipriano, Associate, White Collar Criminal DefenseDiana Ingallinera Faillace

In this episode of "Real Talk," Nicole Fulfree and Amanda Cipriano talk with Lowenstein associates Mikayla Berliner and Markiana Julceus about judicial clerkships, including the benefits they gained from their respective experiences and the challenges of transitioning from chambers to private practice. The hosts discuss the ways their clerkships helped to expand their networks, review the differences between state and appellate clerkships, and offer pro tips for the transition process. Speakers: Nicole Fulfree, Partner, Bankruptcy & RestructuringAmanda Cipriano, Associate, White Collar Criminal DefenseMikayla Berliner, Associate, LitigationMarkiana Julceus, Associate, White Collar Criminal Defense

In this episode of "Real Talk," Lowenstein associates discuss their pre-law school careers, and how that work experience has enhanced their practices. Partners Megan Monson, and Nicole Fulfree welcome associate Amanda Cipriano as host and guests, associates Pati Candelario and Rachel Moseson Dikovics, who all describe their respective experiences of joining the workforce after graduation vs. going directly from college to law school. The conversation covers how gaining work experience before going to law school can provide opportunities to hone skills that are also valuable in the law firm environment, such as communication, time management, and problem-solving; as well as the benefits of building a network and developing a "thick skin" before plunging into the challenges of Big Law. Speakers: Megan Monson, Partner, Employee Benefits & Executive CompensationNicole Fulfree, Partner, Bankruptcy & RestructuringRachel Moseson Dikovics, Associate, White Collar Criminal DefenseAmanda Cipriano, Associate, White Collar Criminal DefensePati Candelario, Associate, Pro Bono

In this episode, the hosts continue their discussion about how to give and receive criticism constructively. They outline a recommended approach to giving criticism in ways that are appropriate and honestly aimed at a positive outcome, and they explain the benefits of the "praise/criticism sandwich." They also provide some tactics for receiving criticism without appearing defensive, noting that it is always OK to ask more questions, or even suggest talking about things later.  Speakers: Megan Monson, Partner, Employee Benefits & Executive CompensationNicole Fulfree, Partner, Bankruptcy & RestructuringRachel Moseson Dikovics, Associate, White Collar Criminal DefenseAudrey G. Ogurchak, Associate, The Tech Group

In this special episode of "Real Talk": Lowenstein's Women's Initiative Network podcast, host Megan Monson is joined by co-host Lowenstein Tech Group counsel Diane Moss and special guest Sheila Bridges, founder of Sheila Bridges Design and Sheila Bridges Home. With a client list that has included luminaries like former President Bill Clinton and Vice President Kamala Harris, and celebrities such as Sean Combs, Sheila has been named America's Best Interior Designer by Time magazine and CNN, and has been inducted into the AD100, Architectural Digest's list of esteemed designers and architects from around the globe for the past three years. She discusses her career trajectory, and how she leveraged her passion for design and storytelling to create and grow the lifestyle brand Harlem Toile, which has been featured in museums across the country and which partners with brands like Converse, Sonos, and the Shade Store to bring this joyful iteration of African American culture to a broad range of products and audiences. Speakers: Megan Monson, Partner, Employee Benefits & Executive Compensation Diane Moss, Counsel, Tech Group Sheila Bridges, Sheila Bridges Design and Sheila Bridges Home  

In this episode of "Real Talk," Megan Monson, Nicole Fulfree, Rachel Moseson Dikovics, and Audrey G. Ogurchak discuss how hard it is to both give and receive criticism, and why defensiveness seems to be felt so strongly—especially amongst women in the legal world. The hosts address perfectionism, strategies to prepare for hard conversations, and what role criticism plays in both the business and personal realms. Speakers: Megan Monson, Partner, Employee Benefits & Executive Compensation Nicole Fulfree, Partner, Bankruptcy & Restructuring Rachel Moseson Dikovics, Associate, White Collar Criminal Defense Audrey G. Ogurchak, Associate, The Tech Group

Megan Monson, Nicole Fulfree, and Rachel Moseson Dikovics, continue their discussion with Debra Lancaster, Executive Director of the Center for Women and Work and Kirsten Scheurer Branigan, Managing Partner of KSBranigan Law P.C., about the ongoing disparity between genders in the upper echelon of leadership roles in private law firms. The panelists explore ways to improve the situation by trying to eliminate bias, assisting with work-life balance and flexibility, monitoring advancement, developing more resources and leveraging male allies. Speakers: Megan Monson, Partner, Employee Benefits & Executive Compensation Nicole Fulfree, Partner, Bankruptcy & Restructuring Rachel Moseson Dikovics, Associate, White Collar Criminal Defense Debra Lancaster, Executive Director, Center for Women and Work (CWW) Kirsten Scheurer Branigan, Managing Partner, KSBranigan Law P.C.

Megan Monson, Nicole Fulfree, and Rachel Moseson Dikovics are joined by Kirsten Scheurer Branigan, managing partner of KSBranigan Law P.C., and Debra Lancaster, executive director of the Center for Women & Work at Rutgers University, to discuss the Center's recently published study, Women in Private Law Firms Slow Progress on Equality of Promotion and Compensation, which finds that women lawyers' rate of professional advancement is the same today as it was in the early 1990s. Though women often outperform their male counterparts in law school, on bar exams, and in their legal careers, when it comes to advancement, especially the partner track, the perception that things are improving is far from accurate. The panelists agree that women are still "supposed to work like they don't have kids, and parent like they don't have a job"; and they address possible ways law firms can prevent women from leaving the practice of law, such as by destigmatizing maternity leave, part-time policies and part-time partnership. Speakers: Megan Monson, Partner, Employee Benefits & Executive Compensation Nicole Fulfree, Counsel, Bankruptcy & Restructuring Rachel Moseson Dikovics, Associate, White Collar Criminal Defense Debra Lancaster, Executive Director, Center for Women and Work (CWW) Kirsten Scheurer Branigan, Managing Partner, KSBranigan Law P.C.

On this episode, the hosts of "Real Talk" address the guilt that women in careers with long hours often feel about missing out on personal social occasions like date nights or school events. How do you explain to loved ones who are not in the legal profession why you have to cancel at the last minute, or why you are up all night working on a pressing client issue? How do you prioritize, how and when should you push back, and when should you answer that email that you received at 11 p.m. on a Saturday? Speakers: Megan Monson, Partner, Employee Benefits & Executive Compensation Nicole Fulfree, Counsel, Bankruptcy & Restructuring Rachel Moseson Dikovics, Associate, White Collar Criminal Defense Amanda Cipriano, Associate, White Collar Criminal Defense

Lowenstein litigator Jennifer Fiorica Delgado joins hosts Megan Monson, Nicole Fulfree, and Rachel Moseson Dikovics to discuss how working parents are recovering from the pandemic. They describe the challenges of raising small children while working remotely;  how coming into the office can sometimes (paradoxically) provide relief; and the realization that COVID 19 did not cause problems with childcare, inequitable divisions of labor between genders, and burnout—it simply raised awareness of these issues. Speakers:  Megan Monson, Partner, Employee Benefits & Executive Compensation Nicole Fulfree, Counsel, Bankruptcy & Restructuring Rachel Moseson Dikovics, Associate, White Collar Criminal Defense Jennifer Fiorica Delgado, Partner, Business Litigation

Megan Monson, Nicole Fulfree, and Rachel Moseson Dikovics continue their discussion about why women lawyers are leaving the profession with Laura Leopard, Founder and CEO of Leopard Solutions, whose research found that women are not satisfied with law firm culture that typically serves white, male attorneys and similar clientele. The speakers propose ways to improve law firm cultures, such as by practicing "the amplification strategy" to support their women colleagues. Speakers: Megan Monson, Partner, Employee Benefits & Executive Compensation Nicole Fulfree, Counsel, Bankruptcy & Restructuring Rachel Moseson Dikovics, Associate, White Collar Criminal Defense Laura Leopard, Founder and CEO of Leopard Solutions

In Part I of a two-part discussion, hosts Megan Monson, Nicole Fulfree, and Rachel Moseson Dikovics talk with Laura Leopard, Founder and CEO of Leopard Solutions, about the surprising results of a recent survey on why women attorneys are leaving the practice of law. Overwhelmingly, respondents said it was neither COVID nor childcare concerns that were driving them away, but rather a lack of job satisfaction. The conversation then turns to ideas on how firms can better retain talent, from switching from billable hours to alternate fee structures, to encouraging paternity as well as maternity leave and offering more flextime arrangements. Speakers: Megan Monson, Partner, Employee Benefits & Executive Compensation Nicole Fulfree, Counsel, Bankruptcy & Restructuring Rachel Moseson Dikovics, Associate, White Collar Criminal Defense Laura Leopard, Founder and CEO of Leopard Solutions

In this episode of "Real Talk", hosts Megan Monson, Nicole Fulfree, Rachel Moseson Dikovics, and Amanda K. Cipriano discuss the factors that contribute to burnout culture in the legal profession, the reasons women may be more prone to its consequences, and some practical suggestions for how to identify and address burnout in your organization. One study found that 53% of women in the workplace feel more stressed now than they did during the pandemic due to blurred boundaries and other factors. What is burnout, why does it happen, and what can we do to avoid it? Speakers: Megan Monson, Partner, Employee Benefits & Executive Compensation Nicole Fulfree, Counsel, Bankruptcy & Restructuring Rachel Moseson Dikovics, Associate, White Collar Criminal Defense Amanda Cipriano, Associate, Litigation

In this episode, the hosts interview Esosa Ighodaro Johnson and Regina Gwynn, the co-founders of Black Women Talk Tech  a collective of passionate Black women tech founders that aims to identify, support and encourage Black women to build the next billion dollar business. The guests share the stories of their own careers; the challenges women (and specifically black women) encounter in the startup world; how those challenges intersect with and often involve the legal world; and how to overcome obstacles while seeking access to capital and otherwise navigating the tech/VC ecosystem. Speakers: Nicole Fulfree, Counsel, Bankruptcy & Restructuring Rachel Moseson Dikovics, Associate, White Collar Criminal Defense Diane Moss, Counsel, The Tech Group Esosa Ighodaro Johnson, Cofounder, Black Women Talk Tech Regina Gwynn, Cofounder, Black Women Talk Tech

On this episode of Real Talk: Lowenstein's Women's Initiative Network Podcast, Megan Monson, Nicole Fulfree, Rachel Moseson Dikovics, and Amanda Cipriano continue their conversation on pregnancy and related issues in the workplace, including maternity leave, reengaging after leave, and why men should take paternity leave. Speakers: Megan Monson, Partner, Employee Benefits & Executive Compensation Nicole Fulfree, Counsel, Bankruptcy & Restructuring Rachel Moseson Dikovics, Associate, White Collar Criminal Defense Amanda Cipriano, Associate, Litigation

On this episode of the Women's Initiative Network Podcast: Real Talk, Megan Monson, Nicole Fulfree, Rachel Moseson Dikovics, and Amanda Cipriano focus on challenges that female professionals encounter in the workplace related to pregnancy, such as miscarriage, infant loss, and pregnancy complications; how to navigate these issues in a professional setting; and returning to work and reengaging after leave. Speakers: Megan Monson, Partner, Employee Benefits & Executive Compensation Nicole Fulfree, Counsel, Bankruptcy & Restructuring Rachel Moseson Dikovics, Associate, White Collar Criminal Defense Amanda Cipriano, Associate, Litigation

On this episode of "Real Talk," Megan Monson, Nicole Fulfree, and Rachel Moseson Dikovics welcome Lowenstein alumna and now Senior Employment Counsel at Thompson Reuters Lauren Hanson in a discussion of work/life "integration." They provide tips for finding a way to pursue both professional success and a fulfilling personal life, as well as approaches to managing the stress that comes from trying to achieve that ever-elusive "balance."  Speakers: Megan Monson, Partner, Employee Benefits & Executive Compensation Nicole Fulfree, Counsel, Bankruptcy & Restructuring Rachel Moseson Dikovics, Associate, White Collar Criminal Defense Lauren Hanson, Senior Employment Counsel, Thompson Reuters

In this episode of "Real Talk," hosts Lynda A. Bennett, Nicole Fulfree, and Rachel Moseson Dikovics discuss the findings of a recent survey in American Lawyer, which indicated that women as a whole are much more dissatisfied with their law firms than men. Although issues surrounding pay disparity show signs of improvement, many women lawyers still perceive there to be significant gender bias in the industry. The episode offers ways firms can address this issue, such as through more opportunities for mentorship and more significant, high profile work assignments for women. Speakers: Lynda Bennett, Partner, Insurance Recovery Nicole Fulfree, Counsel, Bankruptcy & Restructuring Rachel Moseson Dikovics, Associate, White Collar Criminal Defense

On this episode of The Women's Initiative Network—Real Talk, Megan Monson, Nicole Fulfree, Rachel Moseson Dikovics, and Amanda Cipriano focus on Imposter Syndrome; both what it is and tips for overcoming it. Speakers: Megan Monson, Partner, Employee Benefits & Executive Compensation Nicole Fulfree, Counsel, Bankruptcy & Restructuring Department Rachel Moseson Dikovics, Associate, White Collar Criminal Defense Amanda Cipriano, Associate, Litigation

In this episode of "Real Talk," hosts Rachel Moseson Dikovics and Megan Monson, and guest host Amanda Cipriano, continue their conversation on personal and professional resiliency and break down five more habits that build resiliency. Speakers: Megan Monson, Partner, Employee Benefits & Executive Compensation Rachel Moseson Dikovics, Associate, White Collar Criminal Defense Amanda Cipriano, Associate, Litigation

In this episode of "Real Talk," hosts Rachel Moseson Dikovics and Megan Monson are joined by colleague Amanda Cipriano to discuss habits that build personal and professional resiliency. Speakers: Megan Monson, Partner, Employee Benefits & Executive Compensation Rachel Moseson Dikovics, Associate, White Collar Criminal Defense Amanda Cipriano, Associate, Litigation