Welcome to the first episode of “Leadership in Law”, a mini-series of the FACL BC Podcast. In this episode, Mark Leung and Steven Ngo share insights from their journey co-leading the FACL BC Leadership Academy over three years, and how their life journeys led them to foster and support leadership in the legal community. Mark and Steven unpack core principles of leadership - from making tough decisions and speaking up for quieter voices, to the importance of integrity and community-driven purpose. Ending with a discussion of leadership and community, Mark and Steven convey the fulfillment and purpose of uplifting others, and how acting upon a genuine desire to help others forms the foundational philosophy of the Leadership Academy.Editors: Hannah Kim, Christina Xu, Baron Hsueh

In this episode, Claire-Xi Song and Jiahong Huang speak with Jayde Wood, an IP partner, Patent Agent, and Trademark Agent at Gowling WLG.Jayde shares the story of her journey into IP law and what drew her to this exciting sector. She discusses possible considerations for moving from a boutique firm to a full-service firm in this field, including needing to grow and adapt to her clients' present IP needs. Jayde then dives into a discussion on the hot topic of generative AI and ways that it can be used at various stages of the IP workflow. Next, Jayde reflects on her experience as an Asian woman in a leadership role and her aspirations towards the future of the legal industry. Finally, Jayde discusses the importance of networking for young lawyers and how professional associations like FACL can play a key role in this process.Editors: Claire Song and Baron Hsueh

In this episode, Xue Zhang and Baron Hsueh speak with Karen Claus, an accomplished technology lawyer and principal of Karen Claus Law Corporation.Our conversation centres on Karen’s storied legal career - having worked as a litigator and now a solicitor, and having gained experience in private practice, in-house, and now as a solo practitioner. Karen shares the processes and approaches she took when transitioning between roles and specialties, and how she ultimately found her affinity in technology law. Finally, she reflects on the importance of staying true to your identity and values throughout your legal career, and how this approach has guided her in pursuing the best opportunities at every stage of her journey.Editors: Rosie Hsueh and Xue Zhang

This episode is an edited live recording of the FACL BC event moderated by Char Sandher, the Director & Group Lead of Healthcare & Professional Banking for Western Canada at Scotiabank, on April 2, 2025. In this episode, we speak with Alex Wilson, George Zhang, and Sean Akeroyd (MNP) who are experienced with financial solutions and strategies, to arm lawyers and law students with the confidence and knowledge to make informed decisions for their financial plans and careers. We explored debt management strategies and practice considerations, as well as the importance and key aspects of a holistic financial plan. The goal of this event is to assist lawyers in their planning and decision-making process, arming them with tools, action items and financial confidence so they can focus on their clients and growing their careers.We thank Scotiabank for being our Exclusive Financial Partner for 2024-2025.Participation in this FACL BC/Scotiabank session or in any Scotiabank program-related events does not constitute advice or an offer or commitment by Scotiabank to provide any financial products or services. The contents of this material are for informational purposes only and you should seek customized advice and solutions. Neither Scotiabank, the participants nor any of its officers, directors, partners, employees or affiliates accepts any liability whatsoever for any direct or consequential loss arising from any use of this material or its contents.Editors: Richard Wong, Baron Hsueh and Xue Zhang

In this episode, Fiona Wong and Abby Pang speak with Gloria Ng, a criminal defence lawyer and co-founder of Platform Litigation.In this enlightening discussion of a criminal defence practice, Gloria offers a behind-the-scenes perspective on the dynamic, fast-paced, and meaningful work she does as a criminal defence lawyer. When it comes to the often unique needs of her clients, Gloria also recounts interesting experiences which exemplify the need to be flexible and creative as a successful criminal defence practitioner.As the co-founder of her own practice, Gloria also shares her thoughts on how to foster a sustainable and satisfying law firm environment, and the ways in which Platform Litigation has strived to create a healthy and supportive culture for both lawyers and clients alike, especially when it comes to promoting equity and diversity in the office and legal industry generally.Editors: Xue Zhang and Baron Hsueh

In this episode, co-hosts Xue Zhang and Becca Liu welcome Douglas Chiu, a partner at Hammerco Lawyers LLP and a distinguished litigator with nearly two decades of experience in complex financial disputes. Recently recognized by Best Lawyers for his work in personal injury litigation, Douglas brings a wealth of expertise to the conversation. He shares his journey in law, reflecting on the challenges and opportunities he has encountered as an Asian leader in the legal community. He discusses how his cultural background shapes his litigation practice and his approach to advancing equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) within law firms. Douglas also explores the impact of EDI policies on leadership and the legal profession.Tune in for a thoughtful discussion on law, diversity, and leadership.Editors: Gaurav Deep Singh and Xue Zhang

This episode is an edited live recording of the FACL BC event moderated by Jennine Punzalen, FACL BC VP Internal, on November 29th 2023. In this episode, we speak with Stephen Hsia, Christine Yan, Brian Reigh, and Mark Iyengar on their judicial clerkship experiences ranging from the Federal Court, provincial trial and appeal courts, and the Supreme Court of Canada. In their discussion, our panelists discuss the substantive differences between clerking at each court, and share insights on their experiences of diversity and inclusion within their cohorts and with their respective judges. They address challenges related to diversity in the judiciary, discuss how clerkships benefit future legal careers, and highlight the importance of diverse perspectives in the courtroom. They offer advice for students applying for clerkships, with a focus on fostering equity, diversity, and inclusion within the legal profession. Editors: Michael Xu and Baron Hsueh, and reviewed by Xue Zhang

This episode is an edited live recording of the FACL BC event moderated by Mark Leung, FACL BC In-House Committee Chair, on November 27, 2023. In this episode, Alex Su delves into the impact of his Asian-American background on his career path in law and shares his unique journey from being a lawyer in private practice, to a salesperson in legal tech, and now as an internet celebrity. Alex shares the influence of his multicultural upbringing on his life-long journey in the legal industry, and reflects on those transitional moments when he allowed himself to pivot to different legal roles. Alex also answers questions from our audience on topics ranging from navigating discussions of EDI in a private practice environment to the future impact of legal technology on the business and practice of law.  Please note that since the recording of this episode, Alex Su has transitioned into the role of Chief Revenue Officer of Latitude Legal. Editors: Baron Hsueh and Jenny Huang

In this episode, we chat with Stephanie Mui, Assistant Dean of the Career Services Office at Allard Law, about navigating student recruitment. Stephanie shares her career journey, offering essential tips on crafting standout applications, effective networking, and interview preparation. We also discuss post-COVID-19 changes in recruitment and address common misconceptions law students have. Stephanie provides tailored advice for Asian Canadian students on leveraging their unique backgrounds in the recruitment process. Whether you are preparing for OCIs, articling, or early in your legal career, Stephanie's wisdom will guide you through the challenges and help you put your best foot forward.

Join us as we uncover essential insights with Lucy Schilling, partner and Vice Office Managing Partner at Cozen O’Connor’s Vancouver office. Lucy shares perspectives on understanding law as a business, empowering junior associates to take initiative and become indispensable team members, and effective strategies for standing out. Additionally, Lucy explores the importance of networking and business development, offering practical advice to build a strong professional network right from the start. Don’t miss this lively and inspiring conversation packed with actionable advice to help junior lawyers shine and leave a lasting impact! We extend our gratitude to Cozen O'Connor for their sponsorship of this episode.