The Rule of Law: The Academy Speaks

Venezuela On Record, Part 2: Reporting Under Threat

Part 2 of this special episode features Randy Smith, President of the Alfred Friendly Press Partners, and investigative journalist Patricia Marcano, who was forced to flee Venezuela after threats for reporting on the Maduro regime. Together, they unpack what's being reported, what may be missing, and why discerning listeners should seek out credible, independent sources.
Additional Resources:
⁠⁠Alfred Friendly Press Partners⁠⁠
⁠⁠Committee to Protect Journalists⁠⁠
News from the Region
⁠⁠Armando Info⁠⁠
⁠⁠Tal Cual⁠⁠
⁠⁠Efecto Cocuyo

Venezuela On The Record, Part 1: Law on Paper, Power in Practice

Part one of this special two-part episode brings together esteemed trial lawyers, Joe Tucker, Brian Gover, and Stan Garnett for a clear-eyed look at Venezuela’s crisis and what it signals for the Rule of Law. They unpack how the international community and the legal profession are reading this moment, what is at stake when legal norms become optional.
Additional Resources:
⁠Alfred Friendly Press Partners⁠
⁠Committee to Protect Journalists⁠
News from the Region
⁠Armando Info⁠
⁠Tal Cual⁠
⁠Efecto Cocuyo⁠

Listen Again: One Lawyer, One Action. Sparking a Movement.

Are you looking for ways to make a difference in 2026? Revisit this episode with Joe Tucker and President of the Arizona State Bar, Ted Schmidt. The pair discuss how small acts, like speaking in a classroom or organizing a local event, can spark broader civic engagement.

Listen Again: Optimism and its Role in Preserving Democracy

Tis the season!  Revisit this episode with Craig Peters, Partner at Altair Law in San Francisco. The conversation centers on optimism and its essential role in preserving democracy. Enjoy stories of three mentors who, despite overwhelming odds, held onto optimism as they worked to create lasting change. 

The Rule of Law is Under Attack. Now What?

In the Season 2 finale, Joe Tucker and Kate Shaw, Professor of Law at UPenn Carey Law, confront the state of the Rule of Law in an era of selective prosecution, retaliation against critics, and concealment from the courts. They assess the Supreme Court’s response, measure the damage already done, and underscore the urgent role lawyers must play now to defend meaningful justice.

The Difference Makers: How Lawyers Can Mitigate Burnout & Mental Health Issues

In this episode, Joe sits down with attorney and licensed psychotherapist Erica Grigg for a candid look at the strains of the legal profession, from long hours to traumatic cases to mounting political pressure. They make the case for mental wellness alongside ethics and effectiveness, and share practical ways attorneys can support colleagues and themselves.

Democracy: A Worthwhile Work In Progress (Part 2)

In part two, Joe concludes his conversation with Antoinette Collignon on the Rule of Law and how U.S. leadership is seen abroad. Collignon notes Europe’s growing concern with the United States: some fear its commitment to democracy is only lip service, while others are alarmed by signs of alignment with Russia. She stresses the need for unity, respect, and strong alliances. Europe offers examples through the European Court of Human Rights, the European Union, and the closeness of history at its doorstep. Her message is clear: democracy survives only when allies stand together.

Democracy: A Worthwhile Work In Progress (Part 1)

In part one, Joe is joined by Antoinette Collignon, who offers a European perspective on democracy and the Rule of Law. She reflects on the European Court of Human Rights’ rulings in Ukraine and the Netherlands v. Russia and the downing of Flight MH17, marking an important victory for the families of those killed. Antoinette also shares her own family’s World War II survival story, underscoring why history, accountability, and vigilance remain essential to protecting human rights.

Justice and the Internet: Facts First

Joe sits down with lawyer and author Anne Bremner to examine how justice is shaped in an era of social media, 24/7 news, and viral narratives. Anne explains why jurors and the public often form opinions before trials begin, drawing on cases from Amanda Knox to Rebecca Zahau. She argues that while the public wants to be part of the conversation, lawyers have a responsibility to keep facts clear, accessible, and unbiased. The discussion makes the case for transparency, fact-based communication, and open access—so opinions are grounded in reality rather than distortion.

Democracy 2025: Does it Pass the Smell Test?

In this episode, Joe sits down with former Senator Jon Tester—author, co-host of the podcast Grounded, and a working Montana farmer—to take stock of the Rule of Law today. They examine how Congress is failing both the nation and the law, and flag troubling shifts in U.S. alliances. Together they ask: Where are we now? The conversation explores why transparency and accountability must be strengthened to protect the future of democracy. Tester also weighs in on America’s misunderstanding of tariffs and policy, and the empty promises and blatant lies coming from the current administration.
Listen to Jon Tester on the Grounded Podcast.