Disputes in Perspective

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Adam Massaro interviews global finance partner Chris Hand to explore his work in debt financing transactions and the emerging world of crypto. Chris discusses how he approaches securitizing digital assets, navigating multi-jurisdictional loans, structuring control agreements, and protecting lender interests. Chris also shares insights from his path to partnership and how he balances the demands of high-level transactional practice with life outside the office.

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Adam Massaro meets with real estate partner Camille Bacon-Schulte to explore the legal challenges behind billion-dollar data center developments – from land acquisition and utilities to financing, leases, and risk mitigation. They also discuss the founding of Reed Smith’s Denver office, the importance of firm culture, and how to balance a demanding national practice with life outside the office.

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In this episode, Reed Smith’s Niyati Ahuja sits down with Dr. Steffen Hindelang, professor of International Investment and Trade Law at Uppsala University in Sweden and executive director of the CELIS Institute. Together, they explore the growing global focus on foreign direct investment screening and why it has become a key element of policymaking in the EU and beyond.

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Seasoned litigators Brad Funari and Adam Massaro unpack the unique dynamics of nonjury trials, as well as requests for equitable relief and evidentiary hearings held without jurors. Brad and Adam share practical strategies for witness preparation, streamlining trial logistics, and even how to read a judge’s demeanor mid-trial – illustrated through firsthand war stories gleaned from their trial experiences and hard-earned lessons in the courtroom.

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