GetBriefed Podcast

In this episode, Orlagh sits down with former Director General of the Bar Standards Board, Mark Neale.Just weeks after retiring, Mark dives into the inner workings of the regulatory landscape that shapes the future of barristers and the justice system in England and Wales. Covering some of core topics at the Bar today, he shares candid insights on the cracks and opportunities within legal regulation including: Why the legal profession remains fiercely individual yet collectively pivotal to the rule of lawHow COVID sparked rapid innovation and highlighted operational vulnerabilities at the Bar Standards BoardThe critical role of AI in reducing costs and boosting quality, and the risks of reliance on untested technologyThe importance of the cab rank rule in ensuring everyone’s right to representation, no matter their client’s cause or societal pressuresThe importance of barristers retaining the role of decision-making over developing technology

In this episode of the GetBriefed Podcast, Orlagh sits down with AI and data protection specialist at 5 Essex Chambers, Alex Ustych.Called to the Bar in 2010, Alex has long been interested in emerging technologies and the challenges that a phenomenon like AI would present, even before its current rise to prominence. As AI reshapes industries worldwide, Alex explores what it means for the legal profession today.This conversation sees Alex share both his personal insight and professional perspective on key issues surrounding AI at the Bar, including:How barristers should engage with AI tools in practiceThe problem of AI "sycophancy" and its implicationsThe intersection of AI and data protection lawThe biggest risks and opportunities AI presents to chambersThree core rules for using AI responsibly in legal workA must-listen for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of how AI is influencing legal practice.

In our latest episode of the GetBriefed Podcast, Orlagh sits down for a second conversation with Kathryn Stone OBE, as she bids farewell to a career at the Bar spanning the last seven years.Throughout her time leading the profession’s regulator, Kathryn has experienced the Bar in some of its highest and some of its lowest moments. Her main goal as Chair ofthe BSB has been clear from the very beginning – partnering with the profession to build a better Bar for allThis conversation sees Kathryn reflect on her tenure withthe BSB, giving her final thoughts on:The Bar’s biggest strengths and toughest challengesHow the profession can reach new heights through collaborationThe future of technology in the legal industry    The crucial role of the BSB going forward

In the latest episode of the GetBriefed Podcast, Orlagh sits down with Bibi Badejo - a barrister, advocacy trainer and founder of The Advocacy Coach and The Advocacy Podcast. With a long-standing passion for law and a career spanning both courtroom practice and legal education, Bibi is committed to helping lawyers develop practical, impactful advocacy skills. Her work bridges the gap between traditional legal training and the demands of modern-day practice.This conversation sees Bibi share insights from her personal and professional journey, and explores key challenges and developments in legal advocacy, including:The psychological pressures faced by lawyers and advocatesCommon gaps in legal education and skills trainingStrategies for building confidence confidence in public speaking and courtroom deliveryThe role of continuous professional development in advocacy Navigating dual careers in legal practice and entrepreneurshipThe future of advocacy in light of AI and emerging techA particularly interesting episode for those who are striving to enhance their advocacy skills and take their courtroom expertise to the next level.

In this latest episode of The GetBriefed Podcast, Orlagh is joined by Jayne Drake, Senior Clerk at St Pauls Chambers and newly appointed member of the IBC Executive Committee.Jayne first stepped into the clerks' room in 1995 and has led the team at St Pauls since 2009. With three decades of experience, she brings a sharp perspective to an enduring question: What is the essence of clerking today?In this conversation, Orlagh and Jayne explore:• The future of clerking as a career• How culture varies between London and regional sets• What’s needed to grow and sustain the profession• The inevitable role of AI in the clerks’ roomWhether you're just starting out or looking to help shape the next generation of clerks, this episode is packed with valuable reflections and forward-looking insights.

In the latest episode, Orlagh sits down with Sarah Longden, Chief Operating Officer at Quadrant Chambers.Appointed as Quadrant’s COO in May 2024, Sarah brings nearly 30 years of experience in the legal sector, with a background deeply rooted in marketing and businessdevelopment across both law firms and chambers.In this conversation, Sarah reflects on her path from marketing to leadership, sharing insights on:The evolution of marketing within chambers.The importance of building relationships, demonstrating expertise, and maintaining consistency. How she prepared for and navigated the transition into a senior leadership role.An insightful discussion for anyone interested in career progression, leadership, and the changing dynamics of legal marketing.

How do criminal barristers navigate their most distressing cases? How does constant exposure to trauma impact their well-being—and the profession as a whole? In this gripping episode of the GetBriefed Podcast, Orlagh sits down with Farrhat Arshad KC, a leading criminal barrister who has spent over two decades at the Criminal Bar. Appointed KC in 2024, she has tackled some of the most complex and harrowing cases imaginable. Together, they unpack: The increasingly intense pressures placed on young criminal barristers The psychological toll of handling traumatic cases Why senior barristers must step up to create a healthier legal culture The legal profession thrives on resilience—but at what cost? This is a must-listen for anyone in law, leadership, or anyone fascinated by the unseen challenges of criminal justice. 

In this episode of the GetBriefed Podcast, Orlagh is joined by the current Chambers  Director of 42BR, Vincent Denham.  Officially known as the first-ever appointed Chief Executive in the Chambers world, Vincent is one of the most experienced leaders within the chambers profession, having led 7 different legal entities, including 3 sets of chambers and 4 law firms.  In this conversation, Vincent shares with us a masterclass in chambers management, covering everything he has learned since pioneering the business side of chambers from the very beginning. A compelling listen for those who intend to further their career in managing chambers and creating a model that will last far into the future.

In this episode of the GetBriefed Podcast, Orlagh is joined by high-profile criminal barrister, author and broadcaster, Chris Daw KC. As an established criminal defence lawyer, Chris made a name for himself dealing in a niche of cases that garner major attention from the media. He notably played a part in representing professional footballers, John Terry and Ryan Giggs in their majorly publicised cases, as well an involvement in the Hillsborough Disaster Inquests. Outside of the courtroom, Chris has also built a successful presence in mainstream and online media. His passion for social justice and criminal law reform is the main focus of his media ventures, demonstrated in his publishing catalogue and BBC documentary productions.  This conversation sees Chris details his methodical mastery of the courtroom, stretching across both judge and jury trials, the influence of media on publicised cases and his adventure into another career that runs parallel with his practice.

In the first episode of our 2025 season, we welcome the current CEO of Doughty Street Chambers, James Whiting.  Having only recently stepped into the chambers world in 2022, James brought with him a plethora of knowledge gained from 25 years in the charity sector, where he picked up vast amounts of experience in deputy director and director roles. Taking on the role of CEO at one of the UK’s most esteemed chambers was surely daunting, but James’ focus has remained firmly and maintaining the set’s reputation and driving it on to the next level. This episode sees James discuss the essence and ethos of a set like Doughty Street Chambers, the development of the profession from an ‘outsider’s’ perspective and the importance of a chambers’ roster.

In this compelling season finale of the GetBriefed Podcast, Orlagh sits down with Kathryn, the Chair of the Bar Standards Board, for a conversation on integrity, justice, and the future of legal standards. Kathryn’s journey began from humble origins, where her commitment to fairness was sparked at a young age. A formative experience caring for individuals with profound disabilities as part of a school community service requirement laid the foundation for her career dedicated to upholding what’s right. Her career spans key roles across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, all anchored by her unwavering focus on justice and equity. This episode delves into the Bar Standards Board’s recent proposal to change barristers' core duties on improving Eqaulity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) in the profession. Kathryn shares insights into the proposal’s intent, the Bar’s varied responses, and her vision for progressing the profession’s commitment to EDI in 2025 and beyond. For those connected to the Bar, a reminder that this BSB consultation remains open until November 29 at 17:00. We strongly encourage you to contribute your views.

In this episode, Orlagh is joined by current judge and former Head of Chambers of 3 Paper Buildings, HHJ Nigel Lickley KC. As a teenager, Nigel had little to no knowledge of what a barrister was or what they did. However, one trip to the crown court as part of a work shadowing showed him that it was the best job in the world. From then, Nigel joined 3PB as a pupil and spent 34 years at the set, specialising in Crime and Regulatory law, and was eventually appointed Head of Chambers in 2015. In 2018, Nigel was successful with his judicial application and was sworn into his new career within the judiciary. He has played an instrumental role in improving diversity within the Judiciary through the Targeted Outreach Programme, which aims to support JAC targeted groups (women, ethnic minority people, disabled people, and solicitor candidates) and helps candidates overcome some of the barriers to judicial appointment that exist for underrepresented groups. Nigel discusses the profound experience of worlds colliding for the first time in a courtroom, the vast disparity in diversity within the judiciary and some invaluable advice for those considering their judicial applications. For more information on the Judicial Appointments Commission and the work they are doing with the Targeted Outreach Programme, please use the link below: https://judicialappointments.gov.uk/targeted-outreach-and-research-team/

In this episode, Orlagh is joined by Senior Clerk at 5RB, Andrew Love. Having joined chambers fresh out of school in 1995, Andrew found himself 21 years later becoming the Senior Clerk of the set. An appointment that, despite some kind of succession plan in place, he could never truly prepare for. Andrew entered the profession when there was a general drinking culture around chambers - the usual drink after work mid-week and a few more on Fridays. As he developed his clerking career, naturally, professional and social circles began to expand, leading to more opportunity for a trip to the pub or lunch with a client that turned into drinks for the rest of the afternoon. This conversation sees Andrew candidly discuss his relationship with alcohol as a clerk in chambers, how he was somewhat of an 'enabler' in chambers and how taking on a 'one year no beer' challenge would change the course of his personal and professional life.

In this episode, Orlagh sits down with joint Head of Chambers at St Pauls Chambers, Denise Breen-Lawton KC. Called to the Bar in 2000, Denise is an experienced criminal barrister, who specialises in terrorism, homicide and organised crime cases. She is first ever female Head of Chambers at St Pauls and the first criminal silk to come from the set. Unlike most practising barristers, Denise's life at the Bar didn't begin until later in her career, when she took a leap of faith from her business and marketing role to the Bar course. Since her introduction, she has been set on changing the industry's status quo. In this conversation, Denise discusses changing etiquette at the Bar, how family can alter attitudes towards criminal work and the industry's role in creating opportunity for undiscovered talent.

In this episode, Orlagh sits down with Nikki Alderson, a former barrister turned specialist coach for female lawyers. Called to the Bar in 1996, Nikki quickly gravitated toward criminal law, driven by her passion for human interest stories and advocating for the underdog. Her career at the Bar saw her specialise in RASSO (Rape and Serious Sexual Offences) cases at Broadway House Chambers. Ten years into her career, she volunteered with the Bar Human Rights Committee on a pivotal project in Jamaica, where she helped overturn wrongful convictions of two men on Death Row. This experience profoundly shaped her personal and professional life. Upon returning to her practice in Bradford, Nikki had a moment of deep self-reflection after experiencing such an intense case. Was this truly the path she wanted to follow? Seeking clarity, she turned to coaching, rediscovered her passion, and continued at the Bar for another eight years. Today, Nikki has transitioned out of the legal profession and into coaching, where she empowers female lawyers through tailored support, motivational speaking, and training. She now helps clients applying for silk, judiciary positions, or expanding their practices, inspiring others to find their own ‘mojo.’ Her book, ‘Raising the Bar: Empowering Female Lawyers Through Coaching’ aims to support women in law to navigate their own paths to success, by introducing the benefits of coaching through the sharing of ideas and exercises which readers can test out for themselves. To find out more about Nikki's coaching for female lawyers, click the link here 'Raising the Bar: Empowering Female Lawyers Through Coaching' is available for purchase here Other useful information: Nikki's LinkedIn Latest Showreel TEDx Talk

In this episode, Orlagh is joined by practicing barrister and founder of Bridging the Bar, Mass Ndow-Njie. Mass' passion for law was sparked from a very early age, and his goal in life was set - to become a barrister. Mass' goal, however, was dependent on one thing in his mind - he had to attend either Oxford or Cambridge to have the best chance of making this become a reality. After applying and interviewing for Mansfield College and just missing out on a place, Mass believed, in that moment, that his dream of the Bar had died. In this conversation, he details how he was driven to find an alternative route to the Bar, his inspiration and vision in setting up Bridging the Bar, and how continued support from his childhood brought him a fruitful career in law. Mass and Bridging the Bar continue to do incredible work for the industry, focusing on increasing the equality of access to opportunities in the legal profession across all underrepresented groups. To find out more about their vision, you can find out more on their webpage here

In this episode, Orlagh is joined by Partner and Head of Public Law Children in London at RWK Goodman, Keeley Lengthorn.  Keeley began her career as a solicitor in 2006, specialising in Family and Children, and became a partner in 2018. She is also a leading campaigner for Baby Loss and the founder of George's Law - a new piece of legislation that would grant 3 days paid leave to anyone who experiences a loss under 24 weeks.  George’s Law was founded after she suffered three miscarriages in three years, the most recent of which being her son George on 3rd March 2024. Since then, she has been devoted to spreading awareness on the issue and driving the legislation through parliament. Major developments have happened in recent times, as there has been immense backing behind George's Law from the NHS and a host of front-running retailers implementing at least 3 days' paid leave for anyone experiencing these kinds of losses. Listen now as she gives an update on where George's Law is at in its legal journey, what organisations can do right now to support any employees experiencing a loss and how they can get involved in destigmatising the issue. We have also partnered with Keeley to launch our 'Time For Action' initiative during Baby Loss Awareness Week 2024, where we aim to help organisations and their employees make a difference, by equipping them with the tools needed to address such a challenging issue. For more information on how to get involved, visit the webpage here

In this episode, Orlagh is joined by the current Chambers Director at Oriel Chambers, Nicholas O'Neill. Although not involved with the Bar until much later in his career, Nick has had a keen interest in the legal sector throughout his studying and working life. After studying law at university, Nick went on to practice for 20 years as a litigator, before getting into chambers management for the last 15 years. Outside of his main role at Oriel, Nick does a lot of great work focusing on men's mental health in the legal profession - acting as a champion for LawCare and heading the Merseyside Men's Legal Wellbeing Group. He gives his insights on the major differences in careers in law firms vs chambers, rallying members around a collective cause and the new-gen barristers' passion for mental health.

In this episode, Orlagh sits down with Emily Martin, Senior Clerk at 4-5 Gray’s Inn Square, to discuss her remarkable journey in the world of chambers. Emily began her career in 2008, stepping into the role of a junior clerk—a position she initially saw as a short-term job before university. However, inspired by her Senior Clerks and drawn to the dynamic environment of chambers, Emily quickly realised that this path could offer her more than she ever expected, including opportunities to teach and mentor in a unique way. By 2017, just a decade into her career, Emily was appointed as one of the youngest ever Senior Clerks, appointed at what was then Arden Chambers. In this episode, she shares insights on her rapid rise through the ranks, the challenges and opportunities presented by her chambers' merger that created the current 4-5 Gray's Inn Square, and the continuous learning that comes with leadership in the legal profession.

In this episode, Orlagh is joined by the former Senior Clerk-turned-Director of Development and Compliance, Lucy Barbet. Lucy joined chambers in the early 90s as a receptionist, but found herself in the clerks' room after a failed hiring process at her then chambers, 1 Essex Court. Despite a number of personal struggles, by age 35 she had given up her role as second junior clerk to have a family, returned as the first junior clerk and accepted the role as Senior Clerk at 11KBW. At the time, this was an extreme rarity for women at the Bar and a major milestone within the industry. Lucy details the buzz around clerking in the 90s, becoming the clerk of the government's lawyer and reaching the pinnacle of her career as the first female chair of the Institute of Barristers' Clerks (IBC)

Welcome back to the GetBriefed Podcast. In today’s episode, Orlagh is joined by the long-standing Senior Clerk at 4 Stone Buildings, David Goddard. David began his clerking career in the early 70s, where suits and boots were mandatory and the idea of promoting a barrister’s services was illegal. Planning only to stay in chambers for 6 months as a stopgap, he is still going strong 50 years later. Described as a “Legend of the Bar”, David has earned his title through dedicated service to legal clerking and throughout his time in chambers, has amassed an incredible amount of knowledge that he gives us an insight into today. He offers an insight into the evolution of the chambers world since his introduction and some timeless pieces of advice for younger clerks in the profession.

In today’s episode, Orlagh is joined by the Director-General of the Bar Standards Board (BSB), Mark Neale.  With a wealth of experience in the public service sector, covering everything from tax to counter-terrorism, Mark has now entered what he calls his third career leading the BSB – the regulator of the Bar.  Mark’s role as Director-General is to continually assess the landscape of the Bar and address its most pressing issues, from equality & diversity, to bullying and harassment, or furthering the development of the profession through new technology.  As the regulator, Mark and his team strive to improve the profession and the lives of those who operate in it.   This episode offers a great opportunity to hear from the regulator first-hand on a much more human level.  In this episode, Orlagh asks Mark the tough questions, including:     How is the Bar coping in a post-pandemic world?   What do the BSB think are the most pressing issues facing the Bar?   Mark’s perspective on the recent tensions between the BSB and Bar Council on EDI involvement   What exactly do the BSB require from barristers?   Is it possible that the profession could be overregulated in the near future?   What does the newly formed Labour Government mean for the profession?

In this episode, Orlagh is joined by former Chambers Director and long-standing Senior Clerk, Martin Secrett.  Martin began his career in the clerks' room when chambers was a different place. No technology was available and members relied solely on conversations with their clerks to manage their practice and acquire work for the coming days. With modern advancements in technology now firmly integrated, the physical landscape of chambers has changed for good. However, the principle of clerking has not - its foundations remain built upon communication, strong relationships and goodwill. But does technology now outweigh this? 40 years after beginning, Martin reflects on a decorated clerking career, spanning across multiple chambers and roles from Senior Clerk at QEB Hollis Whiteman, to his final post as Chambers Director at 9BR Chambers where he now operates on a consultancy basis.  Martin has learned from his experiences with the criminal justice system that it is suffering in several ways. As a result of consistent underfunding, retention struggles at the criminal bar, and disparities between courtrooms, the future of the system looks unstable, as it seems unable to cope with the increasing number of cases. In this episode, Orlagh and Martin discuss: The rudimentary practices of mid-80s Chambers The Criminal Justice System's trials and tribulations  His advice to those at beginning of their clerking journey

In this episode, Orlagh is joined by practising barrister at Francis Taylor Buildings and certified exec coach, James Pereira KC.   James was called to the Bar in 1996 and incurred rapid success in his early career, where he won multiple awards and went on to take Silk at the young age of 42.   It was then that James was exposed to many personal challenges that high performing professionals encounter, where he would eventually succumb to burn out – personified by a physical collapse in 2014.   After availing of therapy and coaching to get himself back on the right track, he decided to train in these disciplines, enabling him to offer the services that had helped him so much in his recovery  James was kind enough to speak at our Leadership and Wellbeing conference, where he looked at the life of high performing professionals in 3 key areas – technical skills, relationships and presence.   Listen now as he dives further into some of these principles, discussing what happens when our lifelong values collide with concrete workplace cultures, what should motivate barristers to show up for their career, aside from money and the relationship between barristers, and the cases that connect them.   You can find out more about James' Exec coaching here: The Libra Partnership

In this episode, Orlagh is joined by the Co-Founder and Business Development Director of The Barrister Group, Stephen Ward. Stephen entered the chambers world in 1983 as a young junior clerk then labelled "The Boy" - his mission was to help chambers run as smooth as possible and effectively learn the trade that was clerking. In the present day, Stephen is now an instrumental part of a team that has transformed the way that chambers operation is viewed. With the birth and success of The Barrister Group, Stephen and his colleagues have created one of the biggest and most accessible chambers in the UK. Listen now as they discuss: The true meaning of being a clerk The birth of The Barrister Group (formerly Clerksoom) Fusing the Chambers and Business models Expanding pupillage opportunity

In this special edition of the GetBriefed Podcast, Orlagh sits down with Tim Hyman, the owner of the first official GDPR standard for the legal sector - LOCS:23. Tim's LOCS:23 standard was approved by the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) back in February and its pilot scheme has recently concluded, with the first legal supplier and barristers' chambers being certified in line with the standards requirements Now, the application window for organisations interested in taking on LOCS:23 is open. This episode is a great starting point for those in data protection and cybersecurity roles to begin to understand what LOCS:23 is and its purpose within the legal industry.

In this episode, Orlagh sits down with Sophie Stevens, a barrister at 9BR Chambers.  Sophie has recently completed her third six at 9BR Chambers, where she has now taken up permanent tenancy. She is also one of the co-founders of Neurodiversity in Law, an initiative dedicated to raising awareness, offering support, and reducing the stigma associated with neurodivergence in the legal profession. In this episode, Orlagh and Sophie discuss: Switching career paths from theatre to the Bar Birthing Neurodiversity in Law from a tweet How far can reasonable adjustments go? The untapped potential of neurodivergent barristers

In this episode, Orlagh sits down with Imogen Robins, a leading family law barrister and arbitrator operating out of Pump Court Chambers. Alongside her accomplished career in the family field, Imogen is also the founder of Legally Flushed - an initiative that is committed to connecting women in the legal industry and ensuring they reap the rewards that come with working in law. Imogen shares her experience of as a young female barristers in the '90s, what one year of Legally Flushed has looked like and the knowledge that older women can pass on to newer generations at the Bar.

In this episode, Orlagh is joined by the current Head of Chambers at 42BR Barristers, Tina Cook KC. A decorated barrister in many areas, Tina has specialised exclusively in family law for over 20 years. She has been Head of Chambers since 2016. Tina shares her journey to the Bar through defiance, the effects of a post-pandemic chambers move and what it is really like to lead as Head of Chambers.

In this episode, Orlagh is joined by the Director of Operations at DEKA Chambers, Gordon Walters. Gordon has been heavily involved in the new and improved DEKA identity since joining the chambers in 2018. Today, he shares his experience with stumbling into a career in chambers as an interim CEO, the rights of members in making keys decisions for their workplace and the effects of merging two prestigious chambers together - a task that requires a completely fresh start for all involved.

In today's episode, Orlagh speaks with Michael Bready, a privately practicing barrister of the Bar of Northern Ireland, who has recently achieved the brand-new Cyber Essentials Plus Certification. Michael shares his experience with the certification along with his views on a host of hot topics at the Bar, from AI to mental health awareness and keeping yourself mentally in check.

In this episode, Orlagh sits down with business development expert, Bernard Savage to discuss why business development is such a crucial part of building a career at the Bar. Bernard gives his take on the importance of business development to barristers, how to effectively use social media platforms like LinkedIn and the idea that "people buy people" when it comes to seeking counsel. You can find out more about Bernard and all that he does below: LinkedIn Size 10½ Boots

In this episode, we welcome the Chief Operating Officer of 36 Group, Rowan Caffull. Having been at The 36 Group since 2009, Rowan has experienced life in chambers from a host of different perspectives. Rowan talks to Orlagh about finding his rightful role through trial and error, viewing his operation through a unique lens and how imposter syndrome can affect anyone in an organisation, from the top down.

In this edition, Orlagh is joined by the co-founders of HerBar, Nasreen Shah and Rachel Bale. A differing duo who compliment each other perfectly, the two share their motivations for creating a platform design to follow and support the trajectory of women barristers' careers. They discuss the genesis of their partnership, the hardships of pupillage and the crucial role that men can play in improving the lives of women at the Bar. You can find out about all that is HerBar here

In this episode, we welcome Natalie Connor, VP Legal & Expansion at CrowdCube and founder of Elevate. A former barrister-turned-tech entrepreneur and wellness founder, Natalie has navigated a host of legal roles across the Bar, FinTech, and PropTech sectors. Today, she shares her experience of 8 years at the Bar - the good, the bad and the reasons why she inevitably had to move on - as well as what life after the Bar can look like for those who may be feeling the same. You can find Natalie and all that she does in the following places: LinkedIn Elevate. Elevate. Instagram