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Young Lawyers Division Podcast


The LSBA Young Lawyers Division Podcast highlights the voices, experiences, and professional journeys of young lawyers across Louisiana. Each episode features candid conversations with YLD leaders and emerging attorneys, offering insights into practice development, leadership opportunities, and the work of the YLD across the state.

Watch each episode on YouTube or listen on the go with Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

Strong Skills, Strong Voices: The YL Conference Built for Young Lawyers, By Young Lawyers

 In this episode, Kristen Amond challenges the idea that young lawyers are inexperienced and explores how the LSBA Young Lawyers Division equips attorneys with practical, skills-based CLEs. Our guest highlights the annual Young Lawyers Conference, a half-day event featuring tailored programming, top-tier speakers, and powerful recognition of professionalism, pro bono service, and outstanding young lawyers. A look inside one of the most energizing events in the YLD.

Episode 13: Built by Young Lawyers, for Young Lawy

No Empty Seats: Young Lawyers at Every Table

In this episode, Collin Melancon and Kristen Amond explore how the LSBA Young Lawyers Division advocates for young lawyers across Louisiana. We share why it’s critical that young lawyers have a seat at every table, from firm leadership to Bar governance, and how the YLD ensures their voices are heard. A conversation about leadership, influence, and empowering the next generation of attorneys to help shape the profession.

Episode 12: Young Lawyers at Every Table

A Team Effort: How the YLD Helps Each Other Lead

 In this episode, District 1 representative Margaret Manning reflects on the deep sense of community within the LSBA Young Lawyers Division. She shares how running against a fellow lawyer turned into a genuine friendship, how the council rallies behind each other during elections, and why the YLD feels more like family than a professional group. A heartfelt look at support, connection, and shared purpose in young lawyer leadership.

Episode 11: How the YLD Helps Each Other Lead

Who Counts as a Young Lawyer? LSBA YLD Eligibility Explained

In this episode, Kristen Amond and Collin Melancon explore how LSBA and local bar associations work together to support young lawyers and strengthen communities. We explain the importance of collaboration across organizations and break down who qualifies as a “young lawyer” under LSBA guidelines, including age and practice-year considerations. A practical look at connection, service, and what it really means to be part of the YLD.

Episode 10: Who Counts as a Young Lawyer?

Leading with Purpose: Inside the YLD Leadership Track

In this episode, Kristen Amond, a past chair of the LSBA Young Lawyers Division, reflects on the YLD leadership track and the journey from secretary to chair. The conversation highlights the importance of statewide, high-quality programming and strong advocacy for young lawyers across Louisiana. A behind-the-scenes look at how YLD leadership works to elevate professional development and give young lawyers a stronger voice within the Bar.

Episode 9: Inside the YLD Leadership Track

Vacancies, Elections & Opportunity: How Service in the YLD Begins

District 1 representative Margaret Manning shares her unexpected path into the LSBA Young Lawyers Division. Margaret talks about stepping into vacancies created when Collin Melancon and later Chris Sellers entered the officer pipeline, her run for election, and how those twists led to three years of service on the YLD Council. A candid look at resilience, opportunity, and finding your place in bar leadership.



Episode 8: Vacancies, Elections & Opportunity

Giving Back Through Leadership: Inside Barristers for Boards

In this episode, Kristen Amond and Collin Melancon explore the Barristers for Boards program, an LSBA YLD initiative that pairs young lawyers with nonprofit organizations for board service. We share how the program expanded statewide, adapted through virtual CLEs and regional meetups, and created meaningful connections between attorneys and nonprofits. Learn how board service can strengthen your leadership skills while making a real impact in your community.
Episode 7: Barristers for Boards

From Clerkship to Counsel: A Conversation with Margaret Manning

Meet Margaret Manning, District 1 representative of the LSBA Young Lawyers Division. Margaret shares her path from graduating during the pandemic to clerking for Judge Maurice Hicks in Shreveport, then moving to New Orleans to build a practice focused on insurance defense, attorney ethics, legal malpractice, appellate work, and civil litigation. She reflects on the challenges and growth that shaped her early career.

Episode 6: Meet Margaret Manning

Leading the Way: Meet LSBA YLD Past Chair Kristen Amond

A conversation with Kristen Amond, past chair of the LSBA Young Lawyers Division. Kristen shares how she went from teaching third graders to practicing complex litigation, serving as outside general counsel, and building a mediation practice in New Orleans. She reflects on her years of YLD service, lessons learned, and what’s next as she steps into her “past chair emeritus” era.

Episode 5: Meet Kristen Amond

Show Up Once And You’re Hooked: The Power of YLD Programming

District 1 representative Jennifer Gordon Lampton shares how she encourages young lawyers to get involved with the LSBA YLD. From Wills for Heroes and the Young Lawyers Conference to professional development seminars and Level Up Learning sessions, she explains why attending just one event often turns into many. A conversation about community, service, and why YLD programming is a one-stop shop for CLE, pro bono, and connection.

Episode 4: The Power of YLD Programming

Inside the YLD: Meet Jennifer Gordon Lampton

In this episode, we talk with Jennifer Gordon Lampton, research attorney for Judge Nakisha Ervin-Knott at the Louisiana Fourth Circuit Court of Appeal. Jennifer shares her path from clerking on the domestic and civil dockets at Orleans Parish Civil District Court to her current role reviewing cases that come through the Fourth Circuit. With experience touching civil, criminal, and juvenile matters, she offers a unique, wide-angle view of the work happening at both the trial and appellate levels. A thoughtful conversation highlighting the varied and important work of young lawyers serving within the courts.

Episode 3: Meet Jennifer Gordon Lampton

Leading the Way: Meet LSBA 2025-26 YLD Chair Collin Melancon

This week we’re joined by Collin Melancon, chair of the LSBA Young Lawyers Division for 2025-2026. Collin talks about his Louisiana roots, his path through law school and practice, and the meaningful work he does representing survivors of sexual abuse. He also shares what it’s like to lead the YLD. A great listen for anyone wanting a behind-the-scenes look at YLD leadership and service. 

Episode 2: Meet YLD Chair Collin Melancon

Getting Involved: LSBA YLD Committees with Jennifer Lampton & Margaret Manning

Join LSBA Young Lawyers Division District 1 Representatives Jennifer Gordon Lampton and Margaret Manning as they discuss YLD committees, opportunities to get involved, and how young lawyers can make an impact through service and leadership.
Episode 1: Inside the LSBA YLD
Louisiana State Bar Association
601 St. Charles Avenue
New Orleans, LA 70130
 (800) 421-LSBA(5722) / (504) 566-1600