Advertise on podcast: Legal Chutney (Formally Brown Girl Power)

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Jagdeep Sekhon sits down with Mannat to share life as an in-house lawyer, the good, the challenging, and everything in between. Mannat opens up about her journey from the structured world of corporate law to a product counseling role at a tech company, and why that leap changed everything. Together, they dig into what it actually takes to thrive in-house: building genuine curiosity about the business, navigating the cultural shift away from billable hours, and finding creative solutions when you're no longer just the external advisor, but you're part of the team. Whether you're a law firm associate dreaming about making the jump, or simply curious about what in-house counsel actually do day-to-day, this conversation is packed with honest insight and practical advice. In this episode: Why the transition from law firm to in-house is bigger than most expectHow Mannat found her footing in product counseling at a tech companyThe role of networking and curiosity in building an in-house careerHow creativity becomes one of your most valuable legal toolsMannat's TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mannatplease 

Send us Fan Mail Whether you're quietly exploring options or actively ready to make a lateral move, this episode is your insider's guide to navigating the legal hiring market. Allie Sisson Erstad, a seasoned legal recruiting expert, pulls back the curtain on what law firms are actually looking for, how to position your resume to stand out, and what the current market signals mean for attorneys at every stage. From building a compelling practice narrative to understanding the unwritten rules of the lateral process, Allie shares the kind of candid, practical advice that's usually reserved for closed-door conversations. If you're an attorney thinking about a move  or simply want to stay competitive in a fast-changing legal landscape this conversation will change how you approach your next step.

Send us Fan Mail Thinking about making a lateral move in law or wondering if you even should? In this episode of Legal Chutney, host Jagdeep Sekhon sits down with Bryson Malcolm, a former attorney turned legal recruiter, for a candid conversation about navigating the legal job market with clarity and confidence. Bryson pulls back the curtain on what really goes into a successful lateral hire — from reading market trends and assessing demand in your practice area, to crafting a resume that actually moves the needle. They dig into the often-overlooked factors that make or break a move: cultural fit, DEI considerations, and the business of law that no one teaches you in school. But the conversation goes deeper than job hunting. Jagdeep and Bryson unpack how to build lasting relationships, network with purpose, and find genuine fulfillment in your legal career, whether you're a traditional candidate or carving your own path into the industry. If you're a lawyer thinking about what's next, this episode is your inside edge.

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Legal Chutney, I sat down with Heather Reese, a personal injury attorney, model, and community advocate, for a candid conversation about redefining what it means to be a lawyer and giving yourself permission to be more than one thing. We talked about balancing multiple passions in a demanding profession, challenging outdated ideas of professionalism, and the importance of setting boundaries to avoid burnout. Heather shared her personal journey of navigating the legal field while pursuing creative and advocacy-driven work, and how showing up authentically has helped her build stronger connections with clients, colleagues, and her community. We also explored the mental health challenges lawyers face, why burnout is so common in the profession, and how prioritizing well-being isn’t a weakness, but a necessity. Throughout the conversation, Heather emphasized that success in law doesn’t require fitting into a narrow mold, and that embracing who you are both inside and outside the courtroom can lead to a more fulfilling and sustainable career. 💡 We covered: Redefining professionalism in the legal fieldBalancing law with personal passions and creativitySetting boundaries to prevent burnoutThe role of authenticity in building trust and connectionMental health awareness in the legal professionShowing up as your full self without apology

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Legal Chutney, I sat down with Ajaypal Singh for a thoughtful and candid conversation about the realities of being a Sikh student in law school and navigating the legal profession while staying true to one’s identity. We talked openly about the unique pressures Sikh law students face, including the weight of representation, visibility, and the constant balancing act between cultural values and professional expectations. Ajaypal shared his personal journey, from initially considering a career in law enforcement to ultimately becoming a prosecutor, and how that path was shaped by his faith, lived experiences, and desire to serve the community. We discussed what it means to be visibly Sikh in legal spaces that are not always built with difference in mind, and how spirituality can serve as both an anchor and a source of strength in high-pressure environments. Throughout the conversation, we explored how Sikh students and lawyers navigate moments of isolation, stereotypes, and responsibility, while still carving out space for authenticity. Ajaypal emphasized the importance of representation, mentorship, and leading with values, reminding listeners that embracing who you are is not a liability in the legal profession, but a powerful asset. Ultimately, this episode is about identity, purpose, and finding alignment between personal values and professional life in a field that often demands conformity. 💡 We covered: The unique challenges Sikh students face in law schoolThe pressure of representing one’s community in legal spacesBeing visibly Sikh in the courtroom and the workplaceBalancing cultural identity, spirituality, and professional responsibilityAjaypal’s journey from law enforcement aspirations to becoming a prosecutorThe role of mentorship and representation for Sikh law studentsUsing faith and values as sources of resilience in the legal profession

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Legal Chutney, I sat down with Jima Fahnbulleh for an honest and deeply personal conversation about the realities of preparing for the bar exam especially as a repeat test taker. We talked candidly about the emotional toll of failing, the pressure that comes with trying again, and how easily confidence can erode during the process. Jima shared powerful insights on why bar prep cannot be one-size-fits-all and the importance of creating a personalized study schedule that accounts not just for learning style, but also for work obligations, finances, and mental health. We discussed how active studying not just passively watching lectures makes a real difference, and how identifying strengths and weaknesses early helps prevent burnout later. Throughout the conversation, we also explored the emotional and cultural layers of the bar exam, including the added pressure many feel as representatives of their communities. Jima emphasized the importance of vulnerability, asking for help, and building a strong support system reminding listeners that struggling does not mean failing as a future lawyer. Ultimately, this episode is about reclaiming confidence, redefining success, and approaching the bar exam with intention rather than fear. 💡 We covered: The emotional toll of failing the bar exam and how to process itCreating a personalized and realistic study scheduleActive studying strategies that actually workBalancing bar prep with work, finances, and personal obligationsThe pressure of representation and navigating bar prep as a person of colorThe importance of community, vulnerability, and asking for supportPractical advice for repeat takers on starting early and using resources wiselyJima's TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@neighborhoodbarexampro

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Legal Chutney, I sat down with Benson Lee, Manager of Early Career Recruitment at White & Case, for an inside look at how law firms really approach OCI interviews and candidate evaluation. We had an honest, practical conversation about what separates a strong interview from a forgettable one and how students can show up prepared, confident, and authentic throughout the process. Benson broke down the key differences between screener and callback interviews, shared what interviewers are actually assessing in short OCI conversations, and offered concrete guidance on navigating behavioral questions when experience feels limited. We also discussed the often-overlooked importance of fit and personality, how candidates can demonstrate genuine interest in a firm’s culture, and why preparation goes far beyond memorizing a résumé. Throughout the conversation, Benson emphasized that successful candidates are those who take the time to understand law firm culture, build relationships early, and approach the recruiting process with intention rather than anxiety. 💡 We covered: Screener vs. callback interviews—and how expectations differWhat interviewers are really looking for in OCIApproaching behavioral questions with confidenceDemonstrating fit, personality, and cultural alignmentHandling nerves and technical issues during interviewsThe role of preparation and networking in landing a law firm role

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Legal Chutney, I sat down with Brian Potts, a partner at Husch Blackwell, for a candid conversation about navigating the legal job market and the often-misunderstood power of networking. We talked about the realities of rejection, standing out in a competitive profession, and why building genuine relationships matters just as much as having strong credentials. Brian shared his personal journey from publicly posting a rejection letter on LinkedIn to helping build a nationwide legal mentor network—and reflected on how vulnerability, authenticity, and community can open unexpected doors. We also unpacked what interviewers are really looking for, how law students and young attorneys can approach networking strategically (without feeling transactional), and how mentorship can shape long-term career growth. Throughout the conversation, Brian emphasized that success in the legal profession isn’t linear and that setbacks often become the foundation for meaningful opportunities when paired with persistence and connection. 💡 We covered: How to approach job interviews with confidence and authenticityThe role of rejection in career growthWhy strategic networking matters in the legal professionTurning vulnerability into opportunityBuilding and sustaining meaningful mentor relationshipsStanding out in a competitive legal job market Brian's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-h-potts-26914923/ Legal Mentor Network: https://www.legalmentornetwork.org/ 

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Legal Chutney, I sat down with Danielle Thompson, a Columbia Law graduate and legal recruiter, for an honest conversation about one of the most overlooked challenges in the legal field: mental health. We unpacked the intense pressures of law school and legal practice, explored how grades and performance often become tied to self-worth, and discussed how these expectations can take a lasting toll over time. Danielle shared candid insights from both her academic and professional experiences, emphasizing the importance of community, mentorship, and asking for support. We also talked through practical strategies for managing stress, protecting mental well-being, and redefining success in a profession that often glorifies burnout. Throughout the conversation, Danielle reminded listeners that mental health isn’t a linear journey and that fulfillment in a legal career is possible without sacrificing yourself along the way. 💡 We covered: The mental health pressures facing law students and legal professionalsHow grades and performance can impact self-worthThe importance of community, mentorship, and support systemsPractical strategies for managing stress and burnoutWhy mental health is not a linear journeyEncouragement for finding fulfillment and balance in legal careers Danielle's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/the-lawyer-doula/ 

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Legal Chutney, I sat down with former bar grader turned bar tutor Jay Bijlani to talk candidly about one of the most difficult and emotional parts of the legal journey: preparing for the bar exam as a repeat taker. We unpacked the realities of bar prep, challenged common misconceptions about what it really takes to pass, and explored how mindset, strategy, and support can make all the difference. Jay shared powerful insights on why memorization alone isn’t enough, how proper analysis changes outcomes, and the often-overlooked psychological toll of failing the bar exam. We also discussed why personalized feedback and community support are critical—especially for underrepresented students navigating legal education and the bar process. 💡 We covered: Common misconceptions about the bar exam and why they hold students backThe importance of analysis over rote memorizationThe emotional and psychological impact of failing the bar examWhy individualized feedback is essential for repeat takersThe role of community, mentorship, and support systems in bar successEncouragement and practical advice for anyone preparing to retake the barJay's Information:  Website: https://esquiredbar.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@EsquiredBar

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Legal Chutney, I had the pleasure of speaking with Danielle Thompson, a legal recruiter who works closely with law firms and truly understands the recruiting landscape. She shared invaluable insights on navigating one of the most stressful parts of the law school journey: the new OCI timeline. Danielle opened up about the unique challenges students face when applying early and now without first-semester grades. The ways to approach the process with strategy, confidence, and clarity. We also dug into the mindset shifts and support systems that can make a real difference during this accelerated and pressure-filled period. 💡 We covered: What makes the new OCI timeline so different from past recruiting cyclesHow to tackle applications without first-semester gradesStrategies for crafting strong materials and standing out authenticallyThe importance of networking, leaning on your community, and using your resourcesHow to manage stress, prioritize self-care, and navigate the emotional side of early recruitingDanielle's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/the-lawyer-doula/

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Legal Chutney, I had the pleasure of speaking with Gurpreet Singh, who shared his insights on navigating one of the toughest parts of the law school journey: finals season. He opened up about the unique challenges law students face, how to approach exams strategically, and the mindset shifts that make all the difference. We had an insightful conversation about the importance of preparation, community, and understanding your own value, especially when dealing with the pressure, uncertainty, and expectations that come with law school. 💡 We covered: What makes law school finals different from undergraduate examsHow to understand the grading curve and master the IRAC methodStrategies for studying effectively and staying consistentThe importance of networking, leaning on your community, and utilizing resourcesHow to bounce back from low grades and build meaningful relationships with professors and peers

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Legal Chutney, I had the pleasure of speaking with Milana Dostanitch,  Senior Of Counsel and founder of I Will. She shared her journey of building community for women in law and the inspiration behind creating a space that empowers and connects others in the profession. We had an insightful conversation about the importance of community, the challenges women face in the legal field, and how recognizing your own value can lead to greater confidence and leadership. 💡 We covered: How I Will began and the mission behind itThe challenges women encounter in the legal profession and how to navigate themThe importance of networking, mentorship, and community supportWhy taking action and embracing imperfection can spark meaningful changeIf you’re passionate about empowerment, leadership, and building connections in law, this episode is for you.

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Legal Chutney, I had the pleasure of speaking with Savleen Kaur, an international lawyer and LLM graduate, who shared her experience pursuing an LLM  and navigating the opportunities and challenges that come with it. We had an insightful conversation about the value of global legal education, the role of networking, and how building meaningful relationships can shape your professional journey. We covered: The pros and cons of pursuing an LLM and how to make the most of the experience.The importance of networking and community in advancing your legal career.How an international LLM can broaden your perspective on law and open new career paths.Why personal relationships and professional connections often play a pivotal role in long-term success.

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Legal Chutney, I had the pleasure of speaking with Suhansi Perera, an attorney at Latham and Watkins who shared her journey navigating different practice groups and finding her place in the legal world. We had a thoughtful conversation about growth, mentorship, and the power of being proactive in shaping your own career path. We covered: The process of transitioning from transactional work to antitrust law — and what inspired that shift.The importance of networking, curiosity, and adaptability in building a fulfilling legal career.How law school prepares (and sometimes doesn’t prepare) you for the realities of practice.Finding the right professional fit and embracing opportunities for learning along the way.