The HLEP Podcast - podcast cover

The HLEP Podcast

Harvard Law Entrepreneurship Projectclinics.law.harvard.edu
HLEP provides pro bono legal assistance to founders in the Harvard/MIT community. In support of our mission, this podcast aims to share timely insights from the world of emerging companies and venture capital. The HLEP Podcast is a production of the Harvard Law Entrepreneurship Project, an officially recognized student organization of Harvard Law School. The views expressed on the podcast are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect those of Harvard University or Harvard Law School. Created by Ben Ho.
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Episodes

“Entrepreneurship in the Community: How BUILD Boston Makes Students CEO of Their Own Lives” with Anthony R. Craigwell, BUILD Boston

Join us for a conversation with Anthony Craigwell on innovation and entrepreneurship at the local level. BUILD Boston teaches students the skills they need to begin their entrepreneurial journey and open a pathway to opportunities. Anthony shares from his firsthand experience mentoring students and witnessing their growth. He also shares lessons from his own journey as an aspiring venture investor. Do not miss this fascinating discussion!

May 12, 202528 minSeason 4Ep. 4

"Care Reimagined: What it Takes to Make a Difference in Healthcare” with Amber Nigam, founder and CEO of baysis.ai

Join us for a conversation with Amber Nigam on innovation in the healthcare industry. Amber led his first company to a successful exit. Now, he leads a team of innovators aiming to address inefficiencies in healthcare and improve patient outcomes. We discuss the underlying complexity of innovation in healthcare including navigating regulations, data privacy, building trust, and more. Amber also shares what he has learned as a mentor for founders in the Harvard MIT community. Do not miss this fas...

Apr 14, 202534 minSeason 4Ep. 3

“A World of Opportunities: ECVC in the Middle East and Beyond” with Eyad Latif, Deputy Office Managing Partner for Latham & Watkins Dubai

Join us for a conversation with Eyad Latif on the exciting developments in the ECVC ecosystem in the Middle East. Eyad generously shares from experience working in the Bay Area, New York, and Dubai serving both public and private companies in technology, life sciences, and other growth industries. We cover topics including what makes the region uniquely attractive for both startups and investors, the unprecedented growth of this region in recent years, and the personal qualities that make attorn...

Mar 27, 202531 minSeason 4Ep. 2

Venturing into ECVC: A Leader’s Perspective with Matthew Bartus, global co-chair of Cooley’s emerging companies and venture capital practice groups

Join us for a conversation with Matthew Bartus on the exciting developments in the world of venture capital and emerging companies. Cooley is a leading global law firm known for its work with startups and venture capital firms. Matt draws from more than 25 years of experience in which he advised companies in the U.S., Asia, and Latin America at all stages from pre-seed to IPO. We cover a wide range of topics including his outlook for startups and investors, adapting to market conditions as a law...

Mar 13, 202530 minSeason 4Ep. 1

“Gameplan Advantage: A New Sports Age” with Sabrina Perel, Chief Compliance Officer at the NFL

In this episode of our miniseries “Gameplan Advantage: A New Sport’s Age,” we dive into the complex world of sports law and integrity with Sabrina Perel, the Chief Compliance Officer at the NFL. Discover her fascinating journey from a psychology major to the forefront of legal compliance and policy management in one of the most dynamic fields today. Sabrina shares insightful experiences about navigating the evolving landscape of sports betting, including how the NFL addresses regulatory challeng...

Apr 24, 202451 min

“The New Legal Landscape of Sports Betting” featuring Ashwin Krishnan, Chief Legal Officer at Betr.

Join us for a conversation on the exciting developments in the world of sports betting. Following a landmark 2018 Supreme Court ruling, betting platforms have rapidly expanded across the US, each offering users a unique experience. Ashwin Krishnan offers firsthand insight from the perspective of Betr, a company co-founded by influencer Jake Paul. We cover a wide range of topics including responsible gaming, partnerships in sports business, and how law students interested in sports and entertainm...

Apr 17, 202450 minSeason 3Ep. 8

“Gameplan Advantage: A New Sports Age” with Carolyn Renzin, Chief Legal and Compliance Officer at FanDuel

Dive into the thrilling world of sports betting with our latest podcast episode featuring Carolyn Renzin , Chief Legal and Compliance Officer at Fanduel . Discover what it took to navigate the legal complexities of a company navigating new legal frontiers and gain insight into the fascinating legal questions driving the development of sports and tech. From innovative technology to evolving regulations, we uncover what the future of this industry may look like and what skills lawyers should have ...

Apr 11, 202456 minSeason 3Ep. 4

“AI Ventures: Navigating Legal Frontiers” with Rebecca Lynn, Co-Founder and General Partner of Canvas Ventures

Tune into our last episode of our AI Ventures miniseries where we are joined by Rebecca Lynn, Co-Founder and General Partner of Canvas Ventures, renowned for pioneering investments in AI applications within Fintech and Healthtech. Rebecca, a distinguished investor who has graced the prestigious Midas list an impressive five times, invites you to explore her journey navigating the ever-evolving realm of venture capital. Listen today to discover firsthand what it takes to identify and nurture succ...

Apr 03, 202450 minSeason 3Ep. 6

“AI Ventures: Navigating Legal Frontiers” with Pablo Arredondo, founder of Casetext, current VP & Co-Counsel at Thomson Reuters

Dive into the intersection of AI and law with our next episode in the miniseries, “AI Ventures: Navigating Legal Frontiers.” In this installment, we feature Pablo Arredondo, the founder of Casetext and currently the Vice President, CoCounsel at Thomson Reuters. Pablo shares his journey, beginning with how he identified a gap in the legal industry and the bold steps he undertook to address it. From his encounter with GPT-4 and the pivotal moments leading to the evolution of Casetext, to the trans...

Mar 21, 202448 minSeason 3Ep. 5

“AI Ventures: Navigating Legal Frontiers” with Marty Gomez, Partner at Goodwin

In this episode, we're thrilled to have Martin Gomez, a partner in Goodwin’s Technology and Life Sciences Business Unit. Marty is at the forefront of intellectual property matters and specializes in supporting technology and life sciences companies through the intricacies of new company formation, IP protection, fundraising, strategic transactions, and exits. Join us as we explore the ever-evolving landscape of law and technology, and discover why AI is not a threat to legal jobs but an invaluab...

Mar 13, 202448 min

“Fashion and Beauty: Breaking the Mold” with Giselle Rivers, Partner at Cooley

Join us for the final episode of our Fashion and Beauty miniseries, where we are joined by Giselle Rivers, Partner at Cooley. Giselle offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the support and guidance she offers to emerging companies in the beauty and fashion space. Discover how Giselle has forged deep and meaningful relationships by working alongside innovative founders and gain valuable insights into the upcoming trends poised to transform the landscape of beauty and fashion in the future! Hoste...

Mar 06, 202443 min

“Fashion and Beauty: Breaking the Mold” with Cori Aleardi, Founding Partner, Elevate Beauty

In this episode of our miniseries, we are joined by Cori Aleardi, the founding partner of Elevate Beauty, who brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the beauty industry. We delve into Cori's diverse career journey, exploring her initiatives in ventures backed by private equity and her navigation through this rapidly evolving, challenging market. Join us as we unravel the complexities of investing in the beauty industry and examine the differing approaches to risk taken by investors and ...

Feb 28, 202457 min

“Fashion and Beauty: Breaking the Mold” with Jeff Lee, CEO and Co-Founder of DIBS Beauty

On this episode of our miniseries, “Fashion and Beauty: Breaking the Mold”, Jeff Lee , the dynamic CEO and co-founder of DIBS Beaut y, speaks to his unique blend of entrepreneurial vision and strategic prowess in the beauty industry. We delve into the intriguing pivots he’s made throughout his career from his role as a senior associate at Wachtell to serving as COO of- A-Rod Corp and how each stage set him up to be a successful founder today. As a seasoned entrepreneur and legal professional, Je...

Feb 21, 202436 minSeason 3Ep. 1

“Passing the Mic: Goodbyes and Introductions” with Ben Ho, founder of the HLEP Podcast and former host.

On episode 26, the final episode of season 2, our new host, Grace Kim, sits down with the original host and founder of the podcast, Ben Ho. Starting as a Harvard Law student, Ben launched this project driven by his simple yet profound desire to shed light on legal practice areas and the trends within emerging industries. Together, they delve into his journey, discussing the challenges he faced, the lessons he learned, and the importance of pursuing one’s passions with intention. Make sure to lis...

Feb 14, 202430 minSeason 2Ep. 26

“Careers Only Make Sense Backwards” - Jonah Perlin, Georgetown Law Professor & How I Lawyer Podcast Host

On episode 25, we speak to Jonah Perlin, the Georgetown Law School professor & host of the “How I Lawyer” podcast. We learn about Jonah’s story, his experiences running his podcast, and the major lessons learned from interviewing over 130 lawyers. Whether or not you’re a law student, a junior associate or a lawyer well into the heart of your career, this episode is definitely for you! Follow and connect with us at our LinkedIn and Instagram More on HLEP at clinics.law.harvard.edu/hlep...

Jun 16, 20231 hr 2 minEp. 25

Bankruptcies & Reorganizations - Cullen Speckhart, Cooley LLP

On episode 24, we speak to Cullen Speckhart, the chair of Cooley’s business restructuring & reorganization practice and partner in charge of its Washington, DC, office. Cullen gives us an introduction to the bankruptcy and restructuring process, an overview of what some companies are facing in this cycle, and some of the various scenarios players encounter as they consider their options when managing financial distress. If you’re interested in learning more about bankruptcy as a practice are...

Jun 02, 202346 minEp. 24

Emerging Industries 101: Space Law - George John, Hogan Lovells LLP

On episode 23, we speak to George John, a senior associate at Hogan Lovells LLP, about practicing space law. George gives us an introduction to what practicing space law looks like, some of the major regulatory frameworks that players need to be aware of, and the policy concerns arising at the frontiers of this exciting emerging industry. If you’ve always had an interest in space law but just didn’t know where to look to start exploring, this episode is for you! Follow and connect with us at our...

May 05, 202351 minEp. 23

Running a Venture-Backed Company in a Recession - Mike Lincoln, Vice Chair, Cooley LLP

On episode 22, we speak to Mike Lincoln, the vice chair of Cooley LLP. Mike discusses how venture-backed companies are navigating the present economic environment, how such companies are responding to its pressures across different stages of growth, and how this cycle compares to previous downturns. Mike also gives us excellent insight into what it takes to succeed as an emerging companies and venture capital lawyer. If you’re interested in practicing in this space and representing founders, thi...

Apr 21, 202354 minEp. 22

Emerging Industries 101: Artificial Intelligence - Maneesha Mithal, Wilson Sonsini LLP

On episode 21, we speak to Maneesha Mithal, a partner at Wilson Sonsini LLP, about practicing in the Artificial Intelligence (AI) space. Maneesha introduces us to the policy concerns emerging in this space, its relevant regulatory frameworks, and the types of legal issues lawyers help clients navigate in AI. Maneesha also tells us about her experience working as a government lawyer and how it compares to her work in private practice today. If you are interested in practicing in the artificial in...

Apr 06, 202353 minEp. 21

Dealmaking in a Recession - Morgan Beller, General Partner, NFX; Jordan Roberts, Partner, Fenwick & West

On episode 20, we kickoff our “Lawyering in a Recession” series with Morgan Beller, a General Partner at the venture capital firm, NFX, and Jordan Roberts, a partner at Fenwick & West. Morgan and Jordan discuss dealmaking in a recession from the venture investor’s point of view, how our current bear market has influenced deal terms and the evaluative process for venture investors, and how venture investors are approaching their portfolio companies. They also discuss how lawyers interested in...

Mar 24, 20231 hr 6 minEp. 20

Emerging Industries 101: EnergyTech - Yael Perl & Kristin Seeger, Orrick LLP

On episode 19, we kickoff our Introduction to Emerging Industries miniseries with Yael Perl & Kristin Seeger, partners at Orrick LLP, who introduce us to legal practice in the EnergyTech sector. Yael & Kristin discuss what issues clients in this emerging industry face and how lawyers help clients navigate them. If you are interested in working in the Energytech, Climatetech, or Cleantech space, this episode is for you! Follow and connect with us at our LinkedIn and Instagram More on HLEP...

Mar 10, 202343 minEp. 19

Advising Mature Public Companies - Jason Kent, Cooley LLP

On episode 18, we speak to Jason Kent, the co-chair of Cooley’s Public Companies practice group. We pick up where we left off in season 1 and learn about public companies as they mature, years after the IPO event. Jason discusses what it’s like to advise such mature public companies, the types of legal issues mature public companies face as they encounter greater visibility in the public spotlight, and how lawyers help such clients navigate them. Jason also shares career advice for law students ...

Feb 24, 202358 minEp. 18

“Look for the frozen lemons” - Justin Osofsky, Chief Operating Officer, Instagram; Vice-President, Meta

On episode 17, we speak to Justin Osofsky, the Chief Operating Officer of Instagram and Vice President of Content Operations at Meta. We learn about Justin’s journey, from Harvard Business School and Harvard Law School, to his management consulting days at McKinsey, to joining Facebook in 2008, and eventually stepping into his executive leadership positions today at Instagram and Meta. Justin discusses what it’s like to run a global tech company, the important leadership lessons he has learned o...

Feb 10, 202346 minEp. 17

"Be Direct" - Kristi Jobson, Assistant Dean & Chief Admissions Officer, Harvard Law School

On episode 16, we speak to Kristi Jobson, the assistant dean and chief admissions officer of Harvard Law School. We learn about Kristi’s journey from law school to her experiences clerking in both state and federal courts, her transition into Biglaw, and her pivot to leading admissions at HLS. Kristi discusses what clerking is and how her clerking experiences aided her legal practice. Kristi also shares many things that will be of interest to law school applicants, including Harvard pulling out ...

Jan 27, 20231 hr 13 minEp. 16

“Follow Your Bliss” - Cece Xie, Content Creator, Author, Podcaster & Lecturer

On episode 15, we speak to Cece Xie, the content creator that many of you may be familiar with on Tiktok and youtube. We talk about Cece’s content, her recent book announcement, how she made her career pivot from biglaw to full-time content creator, and the experiences and motivations that inspire her work. Cece also shares a ton of insightful advice throughout this recording for law students and junior associates! Follow and connect with us at our LinkedIn and Instagram More on HLEP at clinics....

Jan 13, 20231 hr 3 minEp. 15

“Acing the Pitch” - Mike Ghaffary, General Partner, Canvas Ventures

On episode 14, we speak to Mike Ghaffary, a General Partner at Canvas Ventures. Mike was also the co-founder of the podcast app, Stitcher, a Vice President of Business and Corporate Development at Yelp, and the CEO of Eat 24, one of Yelp’s subsidiaries. We learn about venture capital investments, including how VC investors evaluate potential investments, how they make investment decisions, and how to make a successful venture capital pitch. If you’re a law student or lawyer interested in joining...

Jan 06, 202359 minEp. 14

“Believe in Your Own Excellence” - Yvan-Claude Pierre, Partner, Cooley

On episode 13, we speak to Yvan-Claude Pierre (“YCP”), a partner at Cooley. YCP is one of the faces of Cooley and a leader in its diversity, equity & inclusion efforts. We learn about the story behind the founding of Cooley’s Chicago office and how the firm makes such a big decision. We also discuss YCP’s career and experiences as a diverse lawyer, and what partners and law firms can do to create space for, and retain their diverse lawyers. Follow and connect with us at our LinkedIn and Inst...

Dec 15, 202259 minEp. 13

Matt Levine - Bloomberg Opinion Columnist & Author, “Money Stuff” Newsletter

On episode 12, we speak to Matt Levine, the Author of the widely read Bloomberg financial newsletter, “Money Stuff”. We talk about his journey from law school, to practicing law, his transition to banking, and eventually to writing. We also discuss Matt’s recent 40,000-word cover to cover essay, “the Crypto Story” and hear about his thoughts on this space. Matt also gives great advice for knowing when to get off the treadmill and spend the “optionality” you spend most of your early life and care...

Dec 01, 20221 hr 4 minEp. 12

Brian Potts - Partner, Perkins Coie & Founder, Legal Mentor Network

On episode 11, we speak to Brian Potts, a partner at Perkins Coie. Brian posted a picture of a rejection letter he received from Perkins Coie when he was a Summer Associate applying to jobs. Today, he’s a partner at the same firm. Brian is also widely known as the Legal Mentor on Linkedin. He is also an inventor, a founder of several companies, and a published author. We talk about his journey from the first Linkedin post he made to the movement that’s grown into the Legal Mentor Network, Brian’...

Nov 17, 20221 hrEp. 11

Alex Su - @LegalTechbro & Head of Community Development, Ironclad

On episode 10, we speak Alex Su, the Head of Community Development at Ironclad. Many of you know Alex for his Linkedin posts and his TikTok videos under the handle, “@legaltechbro”. On this episode of Pivots & Personalities , Alex talks about his journey from BigLaw lawyer to legaltech, how and why he started producing content, what type of content resonates with his audience and what that suggests about BigLaw generally, “the Harvard Kid” and more. Follow and connect with us at our LinkedIn...

Nov 04, 202244 minSeason 1Ep. 10
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