Journey to Esquire®️ The Podcast

Breyon graduated from Stetson University College of Law in 2021 with a Juris Doctor and a Masters in Business Administration and from Florida A & M University with a Bachelor of Science (B.S.), in Business Administration and Management in 2012. He was a Staff Attorney for Judge Tangela M. Barrie at the Superior Court of DeKalb County. He is a legal professional with a demonstrated history of working in the legal services industry. Skilled in legal writing, research, advocacy, and leadership. Experience drafting and negotiating government and commercial contracts. HE recently accepted an offer at a law firm.

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This podcast episode is part of our Where are they Now? Alumni Update Series, where we check in with our alumni to see how they're doing, celebrate their accomplishments and reflect on the lessons they learned from the program. Denia Angelino is a Class of 2021 alum. Denia Angelino is a daughter of undocumented immigrants, a first-generation Latina graduate of Stetson Law, and a California barred attorney. At seven months pregnant, Denia started her first semester of law school, and she experienced what it was like to be both a part-time and full-time student while taking care of her daughter. Following graduation, Denia took the California Bar Exam in July '21 and passed on the first try. Denia was admitted to the California Bar in January '23 and now practices landlord/tenant habitability law as a first-year associate, where she works on cases for tenants in Los Angeles, CA, who live in the same rough neighborhoods Denia grew up in. Denia is also a content creator who mentors the next generation of diverse women lawyers. Aside from lawyering and mentoring, Denia is also a volunteer assistant coach to Cal Poly Pomona's Mock Trial team. Currently, Denia enjoys living in San Diego, CA with her husband, six-year-old daughter, and their dog Mila. Social Media

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In this episode, we pass the mic to Class of 2019 Scholar  Luis A. Aleman, a graduate of Stetson University College of Law  who will give his Scholar Presentation and share the program's impact on his "journey to esquire."

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YT: https://youtube.com/@journeytoesquire

Twitter: @JourneytoEsq                

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In this episode, we pass the mic to Class of 2019 Scholar Assita Toure a graduate of Stetson University College of Law who will give her Scholar Presentation and share the program's impact on her "journey to esquire."

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In this episode, we pass the mic to Class of 2020 Scholar Kishnee Theus, a graduate of WMU Cooley Law School who will give her Scholar Presentation and share the program's impact on her "journey to esquire."

www.journeytoesquire.com inf

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In this episode, we pass the mic to Class of 2019 Scholar Brielle Tucker, a graduate of Stetson University College of Law  who will give her Scholar Presentation and share the program's impact on her "journey to esquire."

www.journeytoesquire.com

info@journeytoesquire.com

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In this episode, we pass the mic to Class of 2023 Scholar Jessica Sivillo to discuss academic success in law school.

Jessica graduated from WMU Cooley Law School, where she was a leader in many student organizations, including on the board of the Florida Association of Women Lawyers, and the Executive Notes Editor for the Cooley Law Review. She also had the honor of being chosen by her classmates as the valedictory speaker for graduation. She also received a degree from the University of Tampa; her activities there included the following- Secretary of The National Society of Collegiate Scholars, Phi Eta Sigma National Honor Society, Best Buddies, Alpha Chi Omega, The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, Sigma Delta Pi National Collegiate Hispanic Honor Society Activities and societies: Secretary of The National Society of Collegiate Scholars, Phi Eta Sigma National Honor Society, Best Buddies, Alpha Chi Omega, The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, Sigma Delta Pi National Collegiate Hispanic Honor Society…see more Major: Communications Minors: Spanish; Law, Justice, and Advocacy We create lawyers who lead, mentor, and inspire ... one student at a time. The Journey to Esquire: Scholarship & Leadership Program* provides academic and professional development for students interested in becoming lawyers.  The journey to esquire is a long one, but we are here to help! ​ We are essential for diverse law students who need financial and emotional support because we provide cash scholarships, mentors, and training, which helps them pass the bar exam, obtain employment with competitive and powerful employers, and obtain leadership positions in professional associations.

Social Media

Website: www.journeytoesquire.com

Email: info@journeytoesquire.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dive...

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JourneytoEsq/

YT: https://youtube.com/@journeytoesquire

Twitter: @JourneytoEsq                

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In this episode, we pass the mic to Class of 2019 Scholar Brittney Lainez, a graduate of WMU Cooley Law School  who will give her Scholar Presentation and share the program's impact on her "journey to esquire."

Social Media

Website: www.journeytoesquire.com

Email: info@journeytoesquire.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dive...

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JourneytoEsq/

YT: https://youtube.com/@journeytoesquire

Twitter: @JourneytoEsq                

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In this episode, we pass the mic to Class of 2023 Scholar Logan Jackson to discuss academic success in law school. Logan Jackson is a graduate of the Stetson University College of Law, where she was the President of the Black Law Students Association, a member of the Trial Team, and won two championships, including an award for the best opening statement, and won a writing competition with the Center for Reproductive Rights, and UC Berkeley School of Law for recognizing me as the first place winner of the 2022 Writing Prize for New Student Scholarship in Reproductive Rights & Justice. Look out for the piece, “Willful Disregard: How Ignoring Structural Racism in Maternal Mortality has led Black Women to Become Invisible in Their Own Crisis,” in the Berkeley Journal of Gender, Law & Justice. She is also a graduate of Loyola University New Orleans. Bachelor of Arts - BA, Sociology with a Concentration in Social Justice and Inequalities Bachelor of Arts - BA, Sociology with a Concentration in Social Justice and Inequalities2016 - 20192016 - 2019• Activities and societies: Black Student Union | President; Nu Mu Citywide Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. | Social Action Chair

In this episode, you'll hear all about our great scholars and the work they are doing in law school and throughout their third year. We also share information about our podcast, blog posts, alumni updates, and our Fifth Anniversary Celebration and Fundraiser in downtown Tampa on October 14, 2023. We're having a Brunch & Bubbly event featuring Mimosas and Mocktails VIP Reception, awards, a keynote speaker, and more. Stay tuned for details. We create lawyers who lead, mentor, and inspire … one student at a time. The Journey to Esquire: Scholarship & Leadership Program* provides academic and professional development for students interested in becoming lawyers. The journey to esquire is a long one, but we are here to help! ​We are essential for diverse law students who need financial and emotional support because we provide cash scholarships, mentors, and training, which helps them pass the bar exam, obtain employment with competitive and powerful employers, and obtain leadership positions in professional associations.

Social Media

Website: www.journeytoesquire.com

Email: info@journeytoesquire.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dive...

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JourneytoEsq/

YT: https://youtube.com/@journeytoesquire

Twitter: @JourneytoEsq                

https://mobile.twitter.com/journeytoesq

Instagram: @JourneytoEsq 

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J🎥📚 Experience the power of oral history with our 'Journey to Esquire: An Oral History' playlist. This series features in-depth interviews with influential African-American attorneys from the civil rights era in the Tampa Bay area. Dive into the stories of Delano Stewart, former State Senator Arthenia Joyner, Donald Odom, and retired Justice Peggy A. Quince. From humble beginnings in the tumultuous times of the fifties, sixties, and seventies, they've risen to remarkable heights in their legal careers, overcoming countless challenges and forging paths for those who followed. Discover the resilience, dedication, and unwavering spirit that guided them through their personal and professional lives. Their narratives shed light on our past, illuminating the hurdles they've crossed and the triumphs they've earned. Join us on this journey, listen to their words, learn from their experiences, and liberate your understanding of history and justice. Click on the link, sit back, and let these inspiring voices transport you back in time.🎙️🖤 #OralHistory #CivilRights #AfricanAmericanAttorneys #TampaBay #Justice #Inspiration #juneteenth

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Website: www.journeytoesquire.com

Email: info@journeytoesquire.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dive...

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JourneytoEsq/

YT: https://youtube.com/@journeytoesquire

Twitter: @JourneytoEsq                

https://mobile.twitter.com/journeytoesq

Instagram: @JourneytoEsq 

https://www.instagram.com/journeytoesq/

In this episode, we pass the mic to the Class of 2023, Logan Jackson and Jessica Sivillo to discuss academic success in law school. In this episode, you'll hear all about our great scholars and the work they are doing in law school and throughout their third year. We also share information about our podcast, blog posts, alumni updates, and our Fifth Anniversary Celebration and Fundraiser in downtown Tampa on October 14, 2023. We're having a Brunch & Bubbly event featuring Mimosas and Mocktails VIP Reception, awards, a keynote speaker, and more. Stay tuned for details.

We create lawyers who lead, mentor, and inspire … one student at a time.

The Journey to Esquire: Scholarship & Leadership Program* provides academic and professional development for students interested in becoming lawyers.  The journey to esquire is a long one, but we are here to help! ​

We are essential for diverse law students who need financial and emotional support because we provide cash scholarships, mentors, and training, which helps them pass the bar exam, obtain employment with competitive and powerful employers, and obtain leadership positions in professional associations.

Social Media

Website: www.journeytoesquire.com

Email: info@journeytoesquire.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dive...

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JourneytoEsq/

YT: https://youtube.com/@journeytoesquire

Twitter: @JourneytoEsq                

https://mobile.twitter.com/journeytoesq

Instagram: @JourneytoEsq 

https://www.instagram.com/journeytoesq/

In this episode, we pass the mic to Shamika T. Askew to discuss failing forward in life.

She was born and raised in Michigan but has made Florida her permanent residency. Prior to moving to Florida, Ms. Askew worked for a state governmental agency, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR), for eight years. During those years, her love for public service derived. As a public servant, she performed several duties, including reviewing contracts to determine compliance, drafting pleadings and motions, answering discovery requests, and conducting contested case hearings. She served in multiple roles, which included: Legal Policy Analyst and liaison between the MDNR and the Michigan Department of Attorney’s General’s Office.

Upon her relocation to Florida, she obtained contractual positions at various firms. She handled several areas of litigation, including drafting and responding to pleadings, discovery, mediation, and trial preparation. Additionally, she represented clients in civil non-jury trials.

Shamika graduated from Tennessee State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration. She obtained her Juris Doctor from Thomas M. Cooley Law School, concentrating in Litigation. While in law school, she enhanced her advocacy skills by participating in multiple moot courts and mock trial competitions.

Attorney Askew has a passion for serving. She is a volunteer Attorney Guardian Ad Litem. She also mentors at-risk juvenile girls by visiting the juvenile facilities on a monthly basis.Ms. Askew is a firm believer in work-life balance. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, traveling, relaxing on the beach, and attending Love First Christian Center.

Connect with Shamika on Instagram, Tik Tok: @askewlawoffice

Facebook: askewlawoffice.com

Money Mindset Seminar by Joseline- https://flayld.org/2023/04/yldmoneytalk-series-shift-your-money-mindset/

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Website: www.journeytoesquire.com

Email: info@journeytoesquire.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dive...

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JourneytoEsq/

YT: https://youtube.com/@journeytoesquire

Twitter: @JourneytoEsq                

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Instagram: @JourneytoEsq 

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In this episode, we pass the mic to Briaunna Buckner Durhal to discuss appellate practice and mentorship. Briaunna participated in The Appellate Project’s inaugural Mentorship Program and is passionate about ensuring our highest courts reflect our communities Briaunna Buckner Durhal currently serves as a judicial law clerk for the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit. Prior to that, Briaunna served as a law clerk to the Honorable Bernice B. Donald of the United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit. Briaunna received a B.S. in Criminal Justice and an M.P.A. in Public Administration from Jacksonville State University. She received her J.D. from the University of Michigan Law School in 2021.  During law school, she worked as a summer associate for Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP and Lightfoot, Franklin, and White law firm. Briaunna was also hired for a prestigious clerkship in the Ranking Member’s office for the United States Senate Judiciary Committee.   During law school, Briaunna received numerous awards recognizing her civic contributions and academic achievements. Notably, she was named 1L of the Year, she received the Outstanding Student Achievement Award for receiving the highest grade in Civil Procedure I, and she was presented the Women’s Leadership Award. A zealous advocate, Briaunna achieved great success for her oral and written advocacy.  In 2019, Briaunna won the Campbell DeLong Trial Advocacy Competition and earned a place on the school’s Moot Court Board.  During her 3L year, Briaunna made history by being the first female African American to be appointed to the University of Michigan’s Supreme Court and the first female African American to be named Young Alum of the Year at Jacksonville State University.  Pro bono work is incredibly important to Briaunna. During law school, she sought several opportunities to provide pro bono legal services to residents and small businesses in the Detroit area. Through the University of Michigan’s legal clinics and externships, Briaunna helped write an appellate brief to the Sixth Circuit defending an indigent person accused of a crime.  She also co-wrote an amicus brief to the Michigan Supreme Court urging the Court to clarify an ambiguous provision in Michigan’s Consumer Protection law.  In her free time, Briaunna loves to spend time with her daughter and fiancé, Zola and Fred. She also is a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority. www.theappeallateproject.org

In this episode, we pass the mic to Lorna Brown-Burton to discuss pursuing service through bar associations, both voluntary and mandatory.

Lorna E. Brown-Burton is an “AV” rated attorney who is licensed to practice law in the State of Florida since 1987 and the Southern District of Florida since 1990. Ms. Brown-Burton’s primary area of practice is workers’ compensation defense representing Employers/Self-Insureds/Carriers for over 30 years and also has experience in the area of Labor and Employment and Social Security Disability as well as representing individuals in Chapters 7 & 13 bankruptcy matters.

Ms. Brown-Burton is a past adjunct professor at Broward College in the Paralegal Degree Program. Prior to joining Lubell | Rosen as a Partner managing the Workers’ Compensation department, she owned and operated her own firm, which was certified as an MWBE/SBE from February of 2004 to August 31, 2014 and from September 1, 2014 to July 31, 2018 Ms. Brown-Burton merged her firm with The DeMicco Law Firm, P.A. where she co-founded the firm, Brown-Burton & DeMicco, PLLC.

She was an active member of the Legal Aid Board of Directors and has held several officer positions which, included President.

Ms. Brown-Burton is a member of the Workers’ Compensation Section of The Florida Bar, a prior elected member of The Florida Bar Board of Governors, Young Lawyers Division, as the Seventeenth Circuit representative, with a special appointment to the Board of Governors, Young Lawyers Division, for the 2002-2003 term and is a former elected President of the Young Lawyers Section of the Broward County Bar Association for the 1996-1997 term. Ms. Brown-Burton completed two 3-year terms on the Florida Bar Grievance Committee “17F” and “17E”, respectively and also served as Chair of the “17E” Grievance committee.

Fun Fact- Initially, I thought I wanted to be a fashion designer and merchandiser until that faithful day on my last day of High School.

Ms. Brown-Burton's Social Media:

Lornab@Lebburtonlaw.com

Linkedin-https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorna-brown-burton-3b76127/

JTE Social Media:

Website: www.journeytoesquire.com Email: info@journeytoesquire.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dive... Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JourneytoEsq/ Twitter: @JourneytoEsq https://mobile.twitter.com/journeytoesq Instagram: @JourneytoEsq https://www.instagram.com/journeytoesq/

YouTube: YT: https://www.youtube.com/@journeytoesquire

In this episode, we pass the mic to Sherriee Detzler to discuss preparing for law school and the bar exam.

Sherriee Detzler works for AccessLex Institute as the National Director--Helix Bar Engagement. In that role, she is a legal educator and guides students on best practices for preparing for the bar exam while spearheading the first nonprofit Bar Review exam Company which sells its courses and products at cost. She is an educator, attorney, coach, change agent and team leader. Her passion - mentoring and coaching law students to help them prepare for and pass the bar exam. In partnership with law schools and professors across the country, She's worked in the development of superior content and materials for both live and e-learning curriculums resulting in increased bar passage rates for nearly 10,000 students annually. She states about her career "I consider myself fortunate to be able to use my education and experience to support the growth, development, and success of new attorneys at the onset of their careers. I’m elated to be part of the AccessLex Institute Team in furthering our mission of Empowering the next generation of lawyers." Sherriee graduated from Wayne State University Law School, where she obtained her JD, Oakland University, where she obtained her BA; and Macomb Community College, where she obtained her AA degree.

Sherriee Detzler-https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherriee-detzler/

AccessLex Institute -accesslex.org Helix Bar Review- helixbarreview.org ; Bar Associations mentioned - michbar.org; macombbar.org Social Media Website: www.journeytoesquire.com Email: info@journeytoesquire.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dive... Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JourneytoEsq/ Twitter: @JourneytoEsq https://mobile.twitter.com/journeytoesq Instagram: @JourneytoEsq https://www.instagram.com/journeytoesq/ YT: https://www.youtube.com/@journeytoesquire

In this episode, we pass the mic to Class of 2020 Scholar Forest Sutton, a graduate of Stetson University College of Law who will give his Scholar Presentation and share the program's impact on his "journey to esquire."

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info@journeytoesquire.com

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In this episode, we pass the mic to Aliza Shatzman to discuss federal judicial clerkships and The Legal Accountability Project.

Aliza Shatzman is the President and Founder of The Legal Accountability Project, a nonprofit aimed at ensuring that law clerks have positive clerkship experiences while extending support and resources to those who do not. Aliza earned her BA from Williams College and her JD from Washington University School of Law. After law school, Aliza clerked in D.C. Superior Court during the 2019-2020 term. In March 2022, Aliza submitted written testimony for a House Judiciary Subcommittee hearing about the lack of workplace protections in the federal judiciary, detailing her personal experience with harassment and retaliation by a former D.C. judge, in order to advocate for the Judiciary Accountability Act, legislation that would extend Title VII protections to judiciary employees, including law clerks. Aliza now writes and speaks regularly about judicial accountability and clerkships. She has been published in numerous law journals and other forums. Fun fact I’m a golfer - I played on the women’s varsity golf team at Williams College.

Fun fact I’m a golfer - I played on the women’s varsity golf team at Williams College.

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In this episode, we pass the mic to Class of 2020 Scholar Adrianna Laforest a graduate of WMU Cooley Law School who will give her Scholar Presentation and share the program's impact on her "journey to esquire."

www.journeytoesquire.com

info@journeytoesquire.com

@JourneytoEsquire

In this episode, we pass the mic to Class of 2019 Scholar Jemima Pierre Zetrenne , a graduate of WMU Cooley Law School  who will give her Scholar Presentation and share the program's impact on her "journey to esquire." 

www.journeytoesquire.com

info@journeytoesquire.com

@JourneytoEsquire

In this episode, we pass the mic to Jacob Delorme to discuss finding inspiration from role models in law.

Jacob is an Assistant State Attorney Assistant State Attorney at the State Attorney's Office, 13th Judicial Circuit ·  where he manages caseload between 200 – 400 cases for various misdemeanors, conducts legal research, and drafting of legal documents necessary for case preparation, Interpreting laws, rules, and regulations in management and evaluation of cases, and Interviewing victims and witnesses and analyzing cases to determine their overall strength.

He received his JD from Stetson University College of Law and his undergraduate degree from the University of Central Florida, where he majored in legal studies. He interned at the Southern Poverty Law Center while in law school and was a law clerk at a law firm.

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In this episode, we pass the mic to Devan Hardaway to discuss pursuing persistence on the journey to esquire.

She is an Assistant State Attorney at Florida's 13th Judicial Circuit. She has worked in that office for several years in different capacities and in different divisions. Ms. Hardaway is a Florida Supreme Court Mediator certified in County and Civil Circuit Mediation. She is also a volunteer Guardian Ad Litem, writer, and photographer and was, at one time, a music teacher.  She discovered a love of criminal law and prosecution when she began her law school journey.

Before becoming an attorney, she worked as a teacher and in other positions. Devan attended WMU Cooley Law School and Fort Valley State University, where she obtained a Bachelor of Arts (BA), English Writing and Political Science Bachelor of Arts (BA), English Writing and Political Science. She participated in Presidential Scholars, was a Student Ambassador, Teaching Assistant, Academic and Athletics Tutor, WIN Lab Writing Editor.

Fun fact- she took the bar exam seven times before she passed!

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info@journeytoesquire.com

@JourneytoEsquire

In this episode, we pass the mic to Judith Scully to discuss pursuing social justice in law school.

Judith A.M. Scully has been a law professor since 1996. She joined the Stetson University College of Law in 2009 as a tenured full professor.  From August 2011 until May 2017, she served as the William Reese Smith Distinguished Professor of Law for the purpose of developing public service, pro bono and professionalism programs for Stetson law students. For several years she directed the Stetson Law School Innocence Initiative. She is the founder and co-director of Stetson Law School's Social Justice Advocacy Concentration program and the Alliance for Advocacy and Philanthropy.  She currently co-chairs the St. Petersburg Higher Education for Racial Equity (SPHERE) Consortium and was a founding co-chair of the Florida Law Schools' Consortium on Racial Justice from 2020-2022.

She teaches courses in Criminal Law, Constitutional Law, Social Justice Advocacy, as well as seminars related to Race and American law and international human rights.

Prior to teaching, Professor Scully managed her own law firm in the City of Chicago where she primarily represented plaintiffs in civil rights cases and defendants in criminal cases. She has served as an arbitrator for the Circuit Court of Cook County, an administrative law judge for the Cook County Commission on Human Rights and was the Deputy Director of the Board of Ethics for the City of Chicago.

She has written several articles on eugenics, forced sterilization, and contraceptive abuse. Her work on reproductive rights has been presented at various international forums, including the International Women’s Health and Human Rights Meeting in New Delhi, India; the 8th International Women’s Health Conference in Brazil; and the United Nations World Conference on Women in Beijing. In 1990, as a member of the National Conference of Black Lawyers, Professor Scully worked with the African National Congress (ANC) to help draft the constitution for a Free and Democratic South Africa. Her suggestions for protecting women’s reproductive rights were the basis of South Africa’s constitutional provision guaranteeing a woman’s right to reproductive choice. Her scholarship which also focuses on race and the criminal legal system has appeared in the Wisconsin International Law Journal, Columbia University Law School’s race law journal, the UCLA Women’s Law Journal, the Toledo Law Review, the Encyclopedia of American Civil Liberties and the Encyclopedia of the United States Supreme Court.

She is a passionate advocate for racial justice, women's rights and criminal legal reform.

Social Media

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Email: info@journeytoesquire.com

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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JourneytoEsq/

YT: https://youtube.com/@journeytoesquire

Twitter: @JourneytoEsq                

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In this episode, we pass the mic to Kymberly Porter  to discuss being a parent while in law school.

Kymberly is originally from Mobile, Alabama. She has had an interesting journey to her current position as a licensed attorney and Law Student Coach. 

After high school, she attended Alabama A&M University for four years until she became unexpectedly pregnant, with only seven classes left until graduation. she moved back home to Mobile, and took 2 years off from school to begin raising her daughter, Amber. Three years later, she finally decided to go to law school after many difficult life circumstances. In the Fall of 2017 she began her first semester at Faulkner University, Thomas Goode Jones School of Law in Montgomery, Alabama.  Kymberly was selected to serve on the executive committee for the Board of Advocates, Faulkner Law's trial advocacy program. Further, Kymberly served as the Executive Editor for the Faulkner Law Review that year. After persevering through a sudden change to online final exams, Kymberly graduated ranked number twelve in her class. Upon graduation, she received a Juris Doctor as well as a Masters of Laws in Dispute Resolution. 

   Although studying for the bar during a pandemic was difficult, Kymberly passed the Alabama bar Exam on her first attempt and was hired almost immediately as an Assistant District Attorney.

Website: theportersolution.com

LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/kymberly-porter-esq-50389b84

Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/theportersolution/

Social Media Website: www.journeytoesquire.com

Email: info@journeytoesquire.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dive...

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JourneytoEsq/

Twitter: @JourneytoEsq 

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Instagram: @JourneytoEsq

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In this episode, we pass the mic to Azmatullah Mustahsan to discuss being an introverted lawyer. 

Azmatullah "Azi" is an Assistant State Attorney, for the 13th Judicial Circuit in Florida.  He is  a recent graduate of WMU Cooley Law School, where he received my Juris Doctorate degree. He received his undergraduate degree from The University at Buffalo where he received his BA in Political Science and Legal Studies. He has worked in various areas of law including, criminal prosecution/defense, personal injury, and family law.

Fun fact: I am a fan of the one and only Buffalo Bills.

Social Media

Website: www.journeytoesquire.com

Email: info@journeytoesquire.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dive...

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JourneytoEsq/

YT: https://youtube.com/@journeytoesquire

Twitter: @JourneytoEsq                

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Instagram: @JourneytoEsq 

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In this episode, we pass the mic to Katharine Haddad  to discuss allyship

Katharine Haddad is an Assistant State Attorney at State Attorney's Office, 13th Judicial Circuit. She is the President-Elect of the Young Lawyers Section of the St. Petersburg Bar Association. She graduated from the University of Florida - Fredric G. Levin College of Law University of Florida - Fredric G. Levin College of Law in 2018, where she was on the • Moot Court Team and received her Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in History in 2017.

Fun fact: I used to tutor math, ranging from algebra to calculus! St. Petersburg Bar Association Young Lawyers Section: https://www.stpetebar.com/page/YLS

In this episode, we pass the mic to Class of 2020 Scholar Ana Lleonart a graduate of Stetson University College of Law who will give her Scholar Presentation and share the program's impact on her "journey to esquire."

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info@journeytoesquire.com

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In this episode, we pass the mic to Class of 2020 Scholar Justin Bell, a graduate of Stetson University College of Law who will give his Scholar Presentation and share the program's impact on his "journey to esquire."

www.journeytoesquire.com

info@journeytoesquire.com

@JourneytoEsquire

In this episode, we pass the mic to Darnesha Carter Foli. 

Darnesha Carter Foli is a board member of Diversity Access Pipeline, Inc. She has a variety of experience within commercial litigation. She has been instrumental in getting clients favorable results in matters involving product liability, trade secret misappropriation, construction, employment, healthcare, insurance, and securities law. She also has complex litigation experience, defending corporations in class actions, in multi district litigation suits (MDLs), and in multi-jurisdictional matters in both state and federal courts.  Before starting her practice, Darnesha served as a senior law clerk to the Honorable Mary S. Scriven of the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida. There, she conducted legal research, drafted orders, managed and monitored a portion of the case docket, and assisted the Eleventh Circuit Pattern Jury Instruction Committee. Darnesha was the valedictorian of her class at Stetson University College of Law, the first African American woman in the school's history to achieve that honor. She was also awarded the Edward D. Foreman Most Distinguished Student Award, which recognizes one student each year for his or her passion for the legal profession, commitment to serving the family of humankind, and being the best all-around student.

Darnesha has also been recognized by local organizations for her commitment to pro bono service.

Education: Juris Doctor, Stetson University College of Law, summa cum laude, 2016.  B.A. English Literature, Florida A&M University, summa cum laude, 2013. B.A. Psychology, Florida A&M University, summa cum laude, 2013.

www.journeytoesquire.com

info@journeytoesquire.com

@JourneytoEsquire

In this episode, we pass the mic to Ieisha Humphrey.

Ieisha Humphrey was born in Chicago, IL, but spent her formative years in Holland, Michigan, where she graduated from Holland High School.  Ieisha earned a bachelor of arts degree in sociology from Grand Valley State University in Allendale, Michigan and then earned her Juris Doctor from Thomas M. Cooley Law School with a concentration in constitutional law and civil rights. After practicing immigration law, in 2012, she began her career in higher education. Since then, Ieisha has worked in several administrative roles and is now the assistant dean for student affairs at the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law; Ieisha is responsible for supporting and enhancing student life through programming focused on wellness, leadership, and professionalism. Ieisha was appointed to the State Bar of Michigan Task Force on Well-Being in the Law and will work on eliminating the stigma associated with help-seeking behaviors, educating the legal community on well-being issues, and taking steps to instill greater well-being in the law. She is committed to diversifying the legal field, so she also works as a bar exam tutor and grader. Ieisha lives in Southfield, Michigan, with her husband, Perry and two sons, Cameron and Caleb.

Fun fact: If I could wave a magic wand and solve one problem instantly, it would be to put pockets on every skirt and dress made. Why aren't pockets a default?!  

Contact

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ieishahumphrey/

Email: ieishahumphrey@gmail.com

Journey To Esquire

www.journeytoesquire.com

info@journeytoesquire.com

@JourneytoEsquire

In this episode, we pass the mic to Cornelius Demps to discuss joining the board.

Cornelius Demps is an attorney who represents clients in the Tampa Bay, Florida area. Cornelius Demps is recognized by peers and was selected to Rising Stars for 2019 - 2022. This selection is based off of an evaluation of 12 indicators including peer recognition and professional achievement in legal practice.

Cornelius Demps chose to pursue a career in law after completing undergraduate studies.He attended Stetson University College of Law and graduated in 2010. Cornelius Demps passed the bar exam and was admitted to legal practice in 2011.

He represents clients with Appellate issues in Florida. He also represents clients with Criminal Defense: DUI / DWI, Business Litigation, and Personal Injury - General: Plaintiff issues.

He is the current President of the George Edgecomb Bar Association, the largest African-American voluntary bar in the area which is celebrating its 40th year of service to the bar and the community.

www.journeytoesquire.com

info@journeytoesquire.com

@JourneytoEsq

In this episode, we pass the mic to Class of 2020 Scholar Marcia Frith a graduate of WMU Cooley Law School who will give her Scholar Presentation and share the program's impact on her "journey to esquire."

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info@journeytoesquire.com

@JourneytoEsquire

In this episode, we pass the mic to Abigail Dean to discuss joining the board.

Abigail Dean is an Assistant State Attorney at the 13th Judicial Circuit. She obtained by Juris Doctorate at Stetson University College of Law. Her undergraduate institution was the University of South Florida, where she obtained a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration. Her favorite hobbies are reading books, volunteering, and enjoying the company with friends and family. 

Fun fact: Her favorite thing to watch are 90s comedy shows.

www.journeytoesquire.com

info@journeytoesquire.com

@JourneytoEsquire

In this episode we pass the mic to Krystle Cacci to discuss developing an appellate practice.

Krystle is an Appellate Attorney, Statewide Guardian ad Litem Office. She is a graduate of Thomas M. Cooley Law School. Experienced policy analyst with a demonstrated history of working in the public and private sectors. Skilled in Public Sector Organizations, Analytical Skills, Government, Research and Writing, and Public Speaking. Strong business development professional graduated from Florida State University and the University of Miami.

Fun fact: Krystle's mother is also a lawyer and was a judge on the Florida 1st District Court of Appeals from 2010-2016.

www.journeytoesquire.com

info@journeytoesquire.com

@JourneytoEsq

In this episode, we pass the mic to Kim Lopater to discuss overcoming challenges.

Kimberly is an associate in the Casualty Department where she handles matters involving Personal Injury Protection (PIP) within the Fraud/Special Investigation Practice Group.   In May 2015, Kimberly received her Bachelor of Science degree from Florida State University, with a double major in Political Science and International Affairs. Kimberly earned her juris doctor from Stetson University College of Law, where she gained experience handling mortgage foreclosure and bankruptcy disputes as a judicial intern at the Sixth Judicial Circuit in St. Petersburg and the United States Bankruptcy Court in Tampa, and veterans’ appeals to the Department of Veterans Affairs for disability benefits at Stetson Law’s Veterans Law Institute.

Currently, Kimberly is an active member of the Hillsborough Association of Women Lawyers (HAWL) and serves as a member of HAWL’s inaugural Leadership Academy. She also participates as a pro bono attorney for the Wills for Heroes program with the Hillsborough County Bar Association and for the Defending Best Interests Project  with the Appellate Practice Section of the Florida Bar and the Guardian Ad Litem program.

Fun fact- Kim became a monthly donor to Tampa Humane Society, Wounded Warriors, and The National Park Foundation after she graduated law school because I wanted to make sure I always had a way to support charitable causes even if I could not commit my own time to help.

www.journeytoesquire.com

info@journeytoesquire.com

@JourneytoEsq

Trinidad-born, Brooklyn-raised, California-dreamin'! Dr. Annette V. Clarke is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in serious mental illness, diversity and community mental health, immigration and acculturation, mindfulness and meditation, and body positivity. Dr. Clarke earned her Ph.D. and M.S. degrees in Clinical Psychology at Palo Alto University. She holds an M.A. in Psychology with a concentration in Mental Health and Substance Use Counseling from The New School for Social Research and a B.A. in Psychology from New York University. Dr. Clarke works across the developmental lifespan providing various psychological services focusing on healing, wellness, and recovery. She’s passionate about mentorship and provides supervision and training to doctoral trainees. A published author, researcher, and lecturer, her work includes Black and Black immigrant mental health, identity development, immigration and acculturation, and cultural competency pedagogy. Promoting mental health and de-stigmatizing mental illness is her life’s mission, and she shares this message with professional and lay audiences alike. Dr. Clarke loves science fiction/fantasy, horses, plants, crochet, bubble-blowing, and spending time with friends and family.

Connect with Dr. Clarke on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Clubhouse.

Tisheana Burton is a graduate of WMU Cooley Law School and Class of 2022 Journey to Esquire® Intern.   

The Journey to Esquire: Scholarship & Leadership Program provides academic and professional development for students interested in becoming lawyers. The journey to esquire is a long one, but we are here to help! ​ We are essential for diverse law students who need financial and emotional support because we provide cash scholarships, mentors, and training that help them pass the bar exam, obtain employment with competitive and powerful employers, and obtain leadership positions in professional associations. 

www.journeytoesquire.com info@journeytoesquire.com @JourneytoEsq

Neena Sterling is a graduate of WMU Cooley Law School and Class of 2022 Journey to Esquire® Scholar.   

The Journey to Esquire: Scholarship & Leadership Program provides academic and professional development for students interested in becoming lawyers. The journey to esquire is a long one, but we are here to help! ​ We are essential for diverse law students who need financial and emotional support because we provide cash scholarships, mentors, and training that help them pass the bar exam, obtain employment with competitive and powerful employers, and obtain leadership positions in professional associations. www.journeytoesquire.com info@journeytoesquire.com @JourneytoEsquire

Jessica Merker is a graduate of Stetson University College of Law and Class of 2022 Journey to Esquire® Scholar.   

The Journey to Esquire: Scholarship & Leadership Program provides academic and professional development for students interested in becoming lawyers. The journey to esquire is a long one, but we are here to help! ​ We are essential for diverse law students who need financial and emotional support because we provide cash scholarships, mentors, and training that help them pass the bar exam, obtain employment with competitive and powerful employers, and obtain leadership positions in professional associations. www.journeytoesquire.com info@journeytoesquire.com @JourneytoEsquire

David Mitchell is a graduate of Stetson University College of Law and Class of 2022 Journey to Esquire® Scholar.   

The Journey to Esquire: Scholarship & Leadership Program provides academic and professional development for students interested in becoming lawyers. The journey to esquire is a long one, but we are here to help! ​ We are essential for diverse law students who need financial and emotional support because we provide cash scholarships, mentors, and training that help them pass the bar exam, obtain employment with competitive and powerful employers, and obtain leadership positions in professional associations. www.journeytoesquire.com info@journeytoesquire.com @JourneytoEsquire

Kourey Hendryx-Bell is a graduate of WMU Cooley Law School and Class of 2022 Journey to Esquire® Scholar.   The Journey to Esquire: Scholarship & Leadership Program provides academic and professional development for students interested in becoming lawyers. The journey to esquire is a long one, but we are here to help! ​ We are essential for diverse law students who need financial and emotional support because we provide cash scholarships, mentors, and training that help them pass the bar exam, obtain employment with competitive and powerful employers, and obtain leadership positions in professional associations. www.journeytoesquire.com info@journeytoesquire.com @JourneytoEsquire

Leah Le'Vell is a Stetson University College of Law graduate and Class of 2022 Journey to Esquire® Scholar.   

The Journey to Esquire: Scholarship & Leadership Program provides academic and professional development for students interested in becoming lawyers. The journey to esquire is a long one, but we are here to help! ​ We are essential for diverse law students who need financial and emotional support because we provide cash scholarships, mentors, and training that help them pass the bar exam, obtain employment with competitive and powerful employers, and obtain leadership positions in professional associations. www.journeytoesquire.com info@journeytoesquire.com @JourneytoEsquire

In this episode, we pass the mic to Abraham Shakfeh, Esq.!

Abraham Shakfeh is an attorney at Butler Weihmuller Katz Craig’s Tampa office, practicing in Construction, Casualty Defense Litigation and Third-Party Coverage.

Abraham obtained his Bachelor of Arts from the University of South Florida cum laude in 2008 and his Juris Doctor from Florida State University in 2011. He is admitted to practice law in the State of Florida and the Federal District Court of the Middle District of Florida.

Prior to joining Butler, Abraham practiced a wide variety of matters from inception to trial.  These cases included construction defect claims and defending against actions involving wrongful death.  Abraham has also volunteered to help children with special needs obtain access to education.

In his spare time, he can be found gardening, tending to his honeybees and spending time with his wife. One fun fact about Abraham is that he is a “huge Tolkien nerd.”

In this episode, we pass the mic to Precious L. Williams, J.D.!

Williams is a 2001 graduate of the illustrious Spelman College, a historically-black undergraduate institution for women located in Atlanta, Georgia. In 2003, Williams went on to pursue her Juris Doctorate from Rutgers School of Law-Newark.

Williams, also known as the “Killer Pitch Master,” is a dynamic speaker, effective trainer, and three-times #1 bestselling author of books on pitching. Notably, Williams is a 13-time national elevator pitch champion, and has been featured on “Shark Tank,” CNN, WSJ, Forbes Magazine, Black Enterprise Magazine, Essence Magazine, and the movie LEAP: The World’s First Documentary about Coaching. Williams’ current clients include Microsoft, LinkedIn, Google, eBay, and more.

In this episode, we pass the mic to Adeel Bashir, Esq.! Adeel Bashir is a Federal Public Defender of the Middle District of Florida and President of the American Muslim Bar Association.

Bashir graduated from George Mason University School of Law in 2009, where he was a participant of the Jessup International Law Moot Court Competition and held leadership roles in George Mason’s Moot Court Board and Federal Circuit Bar Journal.

As a Federal Public Defender, Bashir drafts and files petitions for writ of certiorari to, and appellate briefs in the Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit on behalf of indigent criminal defendants, with a special emphasis on issues involving the Fourth, Fifth, and Sixth Amendments, statutory interpretation, United States Sentencing Guidelines and the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure. Bashir must also present oral argument before the Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit, arguing over dozens of cases. Notably, Bashir has had victories in Supreme Court cases Yates v. United States, No. 13-7451, and Rehaif v. United States, No. 17-9560.

In this episode, we pass the mic to Jonathan Kernizan, Esq! Jonathan Kernizan is a personal injury attorney at Steinger, Greene & Feiner’s Tampa and Saint Petersburg locations. Before pursuing a career in law, Jonathan served in the United States Navy where he deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom abroad the USS Harry S. Truman.

Jonathan attended St. Thomas University College of Law where he graduated cum laude and earned distinctions in Advanced Legal Writing and Trial Advocacy. Jonathan also held leadership roles in the St. Thomas Law Review, St. Thomas Trial Team, and The Florida Bar YLD Law Student Division. Jonathan also obtained significant litigation experience through a clerkship for Judge Spencer D. Levine at the Florida Fourth District Court of Appeal, and by arguing appeals before the Florida Third District Court of Appeal.

Some fun facts about Jonathan are that he is fluent in both English in Spanish, and he is an up-and-coming space geek and enjoys learning about space exploration. Space travel is high on my bucket list.