Disputes in Perspective

What litigators can learn from entrepreneurs with Aaron Houghton – Part 1

In Part 1 of this conversation, Adam Massaro sits down with serial entrepreneur Aaron Houghton to explore the shared reality of scaling under pressure. Aaron shares lessons from building high-growth companies that translate directly to high-stakes litigation: taking on responsibility early, delivering excellence under scrutiny, and knowing when persistence becomes burnout.

The SCOTUS IEEPA ruling: Europe’s response and what it means for business

In this follow-up episode, we explore how Europe is reacting to the Supreme Court’s landmark decision in Learning Resources, Inc. v. Trump, which invalidated tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). Philippe Heeren, International Trade and National Security partner in Brussels, and Justin Angotti, International Trade and National Security associate in Washington, D.C., discuss the implications for EU–U.S. trade relations, the potential impact on ongoing trade agreement negotiations, and practical strategies for businesses navigating this period of uncertainty.

Please note that this podcast was recorded on Tuesday 3^rd March, prior to the news of a threatened Spanish trade embargo. The tariff landscape is rapidly evolving, and some comments may already be outdated, please refer to our Trump 2.0 tariff tracker for the latest tariff information.

Leading with emotional intelligence in litigation with Brett Donnelly

Adam Massaro sits down with Dr. Brett Donnelly, entrepreneur and clinical psychologist, to explore what litigators can learn about leadership and decision-making in high-stakes environments. From managing risk and navigating partnerships to staying connected with your team and leveraging feedback, Brett shares actionable insights to thrive as a litigator and leader.

What comes next? Trump tariffs after the SCOTUS decision

The U.S. Supreme Court's 6-3 decision in Learning Resources, Inc. v. Trump invalidated IEEPA tariffs but left unresolved the critical question of importer refunds. President Trump also almost immediately announced a replacement tariff regime. In this episode, Michael Lowell, chair of the firm’s Global Regulatory Enforcement Group, and Justin Angotti, International Trade and National Security associate, discuss what may happen now that the Supreme Court opinions are out, including alternative tariff authorities that remain available to the administration and practical steps importers can take to preserve potential refund rights.

Visit tradecomplianceresourcehub.com to view our tariff tracker.

Performing through mistakes, change, and pressure with Bennie Fowler – Part 2

In Part 2 of their conversation, Adam Massaro and Bennie Fowler, Director of Strategic Development at The Caprock Group and former NFL wide receiver, move past preparation to examine performance under real-world conditions, focusing on how to respond when mistakes happen and plans fall apart. The lessons translate beyond professional sports, offering practical takeaways for lawyers and other high-pressure professionals navigating constant change.

Mastering performance, preparation, and pressure with Bennie Fowler – Part 1

Adam Massaro talks with Bennie Fowler, Director of Strategic Development at The Caprock Group and a former NFL wide receiver, about how visualization, preparation, and managing pressure helped him succeed on the field—and how those same strategies translate to a high-stakes legal practice and other demanding professional environments.

The Denver Docket: Building a winning appeal, with Jim Martin

Adam Massaro sits down with renowned appellate lawyer Jim Martin to unpack the toughest questions in appellate work – from identifying true reversible error to challenging problematic rulings without alienating the court, and selecting the handful of issues that truly matter on appeal. Drawing on decades of experience, Jim shares insights on navigating trial-court dynamics and building records that can actually win on appeal.

The Denver Docket: Closing Deals, with Brendan Leanos

Adam Massaro is joined by fellow Denver partner Brendan Leanos to discuss the firm’s debt finance practice, offering insights from both lender and borrower perspectives. They explore private equity deals, intercreditor arrangements, and the rise of private credit, along with AI’s impact on legal work, strategies for structuring complex financings, and the growth of Reed Smith’s Denver office.

The Denver Docket: Finding your stride, with Joyce Williams

Adam Massaro hosts Global Commercial Disputes partner Joyce Williams to discuss how rhythm, trust, and preparation – core to her equestrian roots – translate seamlessly into her approach to litigation. Joyce reflects on building strong trial themes, guiding witnesses with authenticity, and navigating her path to partnership.

The Denver Docket: Catching the privacy wave, with Tyler Thompson

Adam Massaro sits down with Tyler Thompson, a partner in Reed Smith’s Emerging Technologies Group, to discuss how data privacy and artificial intelligence are reshaping the legal landscape. Tyler shares how he built a practice around emerging tech before it took off – and offers insights on how companies can stay ahead of rapid regulatory changes.