Welcome back to the Law School Toolbox podcast! Today, Lee and Alison are talking about resumes. It's important to have a clean, professional resume that highlights your relevant experiences and interests. Join us as we share our top 10 resume tips for law students. In this episode we discuss: Polishing the look of your resume Explaining gaps in education/employment history Tailoring your application materials to specific jobs How to approach the "Interests" section in your resume Getting feedba...
Mar 10, 2025•30 min•Ep 494•Transcript available on Metacast Welcome back to the Law School Toolbox podcast! This is the final episode of a four-part series called "Legal Writing Makeover." In this complete series, we take a piece of legal writing that could use improvement and transform it into legal writing A+, one section of IRAC at a time. Previously we covered the issue statement, rule statement, and analysis section, and today we finish off with the conclusion. In this episode we discuss: A review of a sample exam answer How to write a good conclusi...
Mar 03, 2025•8 min•Ep 493•Transcript available on Metacast Welcome back to the Law School Toolbox podcast! Today we are excited to welcome Rebecca Petrilli – Midwest Attorney Director at Themis Bar Review – back to the podcast to discuss IRAC and best practices for legal writing on exams, including the bar exam. Note: This episode is sponsored by Themis Bar Review – the gold standard in bar exam preparation. Save $900 on any July 2025 Themis Bar Review course by using the code LAWSCHOOLTB900 at checkout. (This offer is valid until May 19, 2025.) In this...
Feb 27, 2025•40 min•Ep 492•Transcript available on Metacast Welcome back to the Law School Toolbox podcast! This is the third episode of a four-part series called "Legal Writing Makeover." In this complete series, we take a piece of legal writing that could use improvement and transform it into legal writing A+, one section of IRAC at a time. Previously we discussed the issue statement and rule statement, and today we continue with the analysis section. In this episode we discuss: An analysis section from a sample exam answer How to write a good analysis...
Feb 24, 2025•10 min•Ep 491•Transcript available on Metacast Welcome back to the Law School Toolbox podcast! This is the second episode of a four-part series called "Legal Writing Makeover". In this complete series, we take a piece of legal writing that could use improvement and transform it into legal writing A+, one section of IRAC at a time. Last time we discussed the issue statement, and today we continue with the rule statement. In this episode we discuss: A rule statement from a sample exam answer How to write a good rule statement that earns you th...
Feb 17, 2025•10 min•Ep 490•Transcript available on Metacast Welcome back to the Law School Toolbox podcast! This is the first episode of a four-part series called "Legal Writing Makeover." In this complete series, we take a piece of legal writing that could use improvement and transform it into legal writing A+, one section of IRAC at a time. We begin by discussing the issue statement. In this episode we discuss: An issue statement from a sample exam answer How to write a good issue statement that earns you the maximum points on an exam Resources: Tutori...
Feb 10, 2025•7 min•Ep 489•Transcript available on Metacast Welcome back to the Law School Toolbox podcast! In this episode, we discuss job search strategies for 1L and 2L students in their second semester. We address key issues such as lack of interview responses or offers, and whether it's worth it to wait for your dream job . In this episode we discuss: How concerned should you be if you're a 1L or 2L and you don't have a summer job yet? What to work on at this point to secure a summer job? Key issues such as lack of interview responses, offers, and w...
Feb 03, 2025•28 min•Ep 488•Transcript available on Metacast Welcome back to the Law School Toolbox podcast! Today, in an episode from our "Listen and Learn" series, we're discussing an important concept from Contract Law - consideration - which is one of the three requirements of contract formation. In this episode we discuss: The three requirements of contract formation What is consideration? The two ways in which consideration can be provided The situations in which there is never valid consideration Examples from previous California bar exams Resource...
Jan 27, 2025•20 min•Ep 487•Transcript available on Metacast Welcome back to the Law School Toolbox podcast! In this episode, we're continuing our conversation from last week on how to prepare for the bar exam as a 3L. Today we cover the differences between the UBE and state-specific exams, we emphasize the importance of adopting a growth mindset and avoiding burnout during bar prep, and we share practical advice on which law school classes are a "must" for the bar exam. In this episode we discuss: The Uniform Bar Exam (UBE) versus state-specific exams Th...
Jan 20, 2025•24 min•Ep 486•Transcript available on Metacast Welcome back to the Law School Toolbox podcast! Today we're diving into essential tips for 3Ls who are gearing up for the bar exam. We'll cover everything from choosing a bar exam review provider to early study prep, accommodations, and getting life in order before the madness begins. In this episode we discuss: When should 3Ls start thinking about bar prep seriously? Understanding your strengths and weaknesses How to decide where to sit for the bar exam Choosing the right bar review provider Bu...
Jan 13, 2025•28 min•Ep 485•Transcript available on Metacast Welcome back to the Law School Toolbox podcast! Today we are celebrating the new year and talking about how you can create a plan for success for the upcoming semester of law school. In this episode we discuss: What is the one thing every law student should do as they go back to school this month? Questions to ask your professors in office hours Self-evaluation and goal setting Tips for class preparation How to set up your schedule so you have time for deep work Making a plan for a better second...
Jan 06, 2025•27 min•Ep 484•Transcript available on Metacast Welcome back to the Law School Toolbox podcast! Today we're speaking with criminal defense attorney Hannah Seigel Proff. We discuss the challenges and rewards of running a solo law practice, the unique aspects of juvenile defense work, and finding a good work-life balance in a legal career. In this episode we discuss: Hannah's career journey and work in criminal defense Challenges and rewards of a private law practice Finding a good work-life balance The unique aspects of juvenile defense Buildi...
Dec 16, 2024•43 min•Ep 483•Transcript available on Metacast Welcome back to the Law School Toolbox podcast! Today, we're discussing substantive Criminal Law, specifically the crimes of assault and battery. We covered these topics as elements of Tort Law in Episode 288 . In this episode we discuss: The definitions of assault and battery Two case studies illustrating assault and battery crimes Exam tips for answering Crim Law questions Resources: "Listen and Learn" series ( https://lawschooltoolbox.com/law-school-toolbox-podcast-substantive-law-topics/#lis...
Dec 09, 2024•14 min•Ep 482•Transcript available on Metacast Welcome back to the Law School Toolbox podcast! Today, as part of our "Quick Tips" series, we're speed dating with legal careers, discussing seven practice areas in seven minutes. In this episode we discuss: The roles and responsibilities of legal professionals in the following practice areas: Criminal Law Corporate Law Family Law Estate Planning and Probate Law Employment Law Intellectual Property Law Environmental Law Resources: Career Help with CareerDicta (https://lawschooltoolbox.com/career...
Dec 02, 2024•8 min•Ep 481•Transcript available on Metacast Welcome back to the Law School Toolbox podcast! In this episode, we're speaking with Susan Tanner, Assistant Professor of Law at the University of Louisville. We explore different practical uses of AI by law students, some of which are beneficial and some that might be problematic. In this episode we discuss: Susan's professional background How law students are currently using generative AI Applications of AI for legal practitioners and law professors Practical uses of generative AI for law stud...
Nov 25, 2024•30 min•Ep 480•Transcript available on Metacast Welcome back to the Law School Toolbox podcast! Today, we're talking with workplace mental health and well-being strategist Carolyn Thayer-Azoff about setting yourself up for sustainable workplace success. In this episode we discuss: Common workplace mental health themes Finding a supportive workplace and preparing for job-related challenges Balancing work with starting a family Addressing mental health stigma Dealing with a job that turns out to be a nightmare Resources Carolyn on LinkedIn ( ht...
Nov 18, 2024•29 min•Ep 479•Transcript available on Metacast Welcome back to the Law School Toolbox podcast! Today, in our "Quick Tips" series, we provide a guide for law students to optimize their LinkedIn profile, which is an important part of professional networking. In this episode we discuss: Why using LinkedIn is important for law students Setting up your profile, with tips for best use of each section Building and engaging with your network Key best practices for LinkedIn Resources: Tutoring for Law School Success (https://lawschooltoolbox.com/tuto...
Nov 11, 2024•12 min•Ep 478•Transcript available on Metacast Welcome back to the Law School Toolbox podcast! Today, we're thrilled to have with us Dean Jackie Gardina of The Colleges of Law in Santa Barbara and Ventura here to talk about the history, current state, and future changes of the bar exam. In this episode we discuss: Dean Gardina's law school and career path An overview of the history of the bar exam The effectiveness of the bar exam in assessing lawyer competence The future of the bar exam and possible alternative pathways to licensure The Cal...
Nov 04, 2024•49 min•Ep 477•Transcript available on Metacast Welcome back to the Law School Toolbox podcast! Today, we have ADHD and executive function coach Emily Haan with us to talk about some techniques students can use to be successful in law school. In this episode we discuss: Emily's background and work as an ADHD and executive function coach ADHD and time management challenges in law school Managing overwhelm and procrastination Tackling big projects with backwards planning Dealing with boredom while studying Improving exam performance Resources E...
Oct 28, 2024•33 min•Ep 476•Transcript available on Metacast Welcome back to the Law School Toolbox podcast! Today, we break down strategies to help you anticipate what topics and question types are most likely to appear on your exams. Learn how to study smarter, not harder, and walk into your finals with confidence! In this episode we discuss: Analyzing old exams What details to pay attention to in class Researching your professors Creating a study heat map The unpredictability factor Resources: Tutoring for Law School Success (https://lawschooltoolbox.c...
Oct 21, 2024•9 min•Ep 475•Transcript available on Metacast Welcome back to the Law School Toolbox podcast! Today, we have ADHD coach Rawi Nanakul with us to talk about thriving in law school with ADHD. We cover identifying warning signs, strategies for managing executive function challenges, and the importance of self-care and professional support. In this episode we discuss: Rawi's personal journey and ADHD diagnosis Identifying ADHD signs The difference between the help provided by a doctor, a therapist, and an ADHD coach A few specific scenarios that...
Oct 14, 2024•33 min•Ep 474•Transcript available on Metacast Welcome back to the Law School Toolbox podcast! Today, we have ex-BigLaw recruiter Sadie Jones back with us to discuss how to be authentic in a job interview. In this episode we discuss: The pressure to be the perfect candidate Overcoming insecurities before going into interviews What you might be asked and how to answer in the following situations: You're at a lower-ranked school but have done really well You're at a top school but have a few low grades You're not the "typical" hire for a parti...
Oct 07, 2024•32 min•Ep 473•Transcript available on Metacast Welcome back to the Law School Toolbox podcast! Today, we're excited to have Anne Ditmeyer – the author of Override! What If There Was Another Way? – joining us to talk about creativity, goal setting, personal growth, and following your own path in life. In this episode we discuss: Anne's journey to becoming an author and creative coach How the book Override! What If There Was Another Way? was inspired A surprising creative exercise for reflection and personal growth Building useful habits to he...
Sep 30, 2024•43 min•Ep 472•Transcript available on Metacast Welcome back to the Law School Toolbox podcast! Today, we're speaking with Jim Brosnahan – a longtime Morrison Foerster trial lawyer and author of Justice at Trial – about life as a trial lawyer and the skills you'll need to succeed in this profession. In this episode we discuss: Introduction to our guest, Jim Brosnahan, and his latest book, Justice at Trial Challenges and rewards of life as a trial lawyer With trials being so limited these days, is this a viable career path for newer lawyers? T...
Sep 23, 2024•30 min•Ep 471•Transcript available on Metacast Welcome back to the Law School Toolbox podcast! We have two special guests today, talking about how neurodivergent students can reach their full potential in law school. We're speaking with Heather Varanini, Director of Academic Achievement and Adjunct Professor at Golden Gate University School of Law in San Francisco, and Rebecca Petrilli, Director of Marketing Content Strategy at Themis Bar Review. Note: This episode is sponsored by Themis Bar Review – the gold standard in bar exam preparation...
Sep 19, 2024•51 min•Ep 470•Transcript available on Metacast Welcome back to the Law School Toolbox podcast! Today we have fashion experts Alison Bruhn and Delia Folk – creators of The Style That Binds Us – here with us to talk about professional style for law students and lawyers. In this episode we discuss: Professional style tips for new lawyers What looks to avoid if you're younger-looking or a more mature student Knowing your body type and the colors that work for you Building a versatile wardrobe on a budget Can't find anything to wear in your close...
Sep 16, 2024•27 min•Ep 469•Transcript available on Metacast Welcome back to the Law School Toolbox podcast! Today, we're joined by Pam Sherman, who is a leadership consultant, actor, author, and recovering lawyer, to talk about playing the role of YOU in your career and in life. In this episode we discuss: An introduction to our guest, Pam Sherman The surprising parallels between lawyers and actors To what degree is every professional playing a role? Bridging the "believability gap" between ourselves and our audience How lawyers could benefit from acting...
Sep 09, 2024•31 min•Ep 468•Transcript available on Metacast Welcome back to the Law School Toolbox podcast! In this episode, we're excited to have lawyer, anthropologist, and author Petra Molnar with us to talk about her new book, The Walls Have Eyes: Surviving Migration in the Age of Artificial Intelligence . In this episode we discuss: Petra's background, work, and the idea behind her book, The Walls Have Eyes An overview of how the asylum process works What is "crimmigration"? The technology incorporated at immigration detention camps and around borde...
Sep 02, 2024•30 min•Ep 467•Transcript available on Metacast Welcome back to the Law School Toolbox podcast! Today, as part of our "Listen and Learn" series, we're talking about concurrent ownership of property. For a discussion on the related topic of present and future estates, you can check out episodes 250 and 251 of the Bar Exam Toolbox podcast. In this episode we discuss: Concurrent estates versus present and future estates The three major forms of concurrent ownership: Tenancy in Common Joint Tenancy Tenancy by the Entirety Sample questions illustr...
Aug 26, 2024•25 min•Ep 466•Transcript available on Metacast Welcome back to the Law School Toolbox podcast! In this episode, together with Luiz Arroyo - one of our law school and bar exam tutors - we highlight the critical role of legal writing in a lawyer's career and provide tips for improving your legal writing skills. In this episode we discuss: Luiz's background and experience in legal writing What constitutes "good legal writing"? How to approach the two different types of legal writing Practical tips for pre-writing (planning and organizing), as w...
Aug 19, 2024•24 min•Ep 465•Transcript available on Metacast 
