Episodios

  • Greg Givens: The Dangerous Mistakes Employees Make in Wrongful Termination Cases
    Mar 27 2026

    Greg Givens grew up in La Cañada Flintridge, California and earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from Dartmouth College in Hanover, New Hampshire in 1992. He attended Southwestern University School of Law and received his Jurus Doctor in 2000. Mr. Givens practiced law in Los Angeles from 2001 until 2010 where he worked as an employment litigator representing employers and employees in wrongful termination, discrimination, and wage and hour cases, including several class actions. In 2010, Mr. Givens moved to Colorado Springs and started Givens Law Firm. With more than 24 years of litigation experience, Mr. Givens is well known for representing employers and employees in federal and state courts and in claims before federal and state agencies.


    In this episode…

    Greg emphasizes the importance of communication and collaboration, shedding light on how misunderstandings can lead to dangerous mistakes in wrongful termination cases. What does it mean to truly partner with your lawyer? You might be surprised by the insights he offers on this vital relationship.


    Greg reveals the evolving landscape of employment law, touching on the significant trends that are shaping the way cases are handled today. From the rise of retaliation claims to the complexities of disability accommodations, gain a fresh understanding of the issues at play in the workplace. What are the key factors that can make or break a case? Greg's experience provides a fascinating backdrop for these discussions.


    In this episode of Verdict Signal, host Daniel Gouw interviews Greg Givens, an experienced attorney with over 24 years in litigation. Greg shares his journey into the legal field, influenced by his father, a lawyer who practiced law in probate and estate planning and had a background in the FBI. The discussion delves into Greg's extensive experience representing both employers and employees in various legal matters, including wrongful termination, discrimination, and wage disputes. Tune in to gain insights into the legal profession and learn how top attorneys help individuals navigate their legal challenges with confidence.

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    44 m
  • The Shocking Truth About Workplace Harassment: Insights from Rafael Lazaro
    Mar 27 2026

    Rafael E. Lázaro is the founding member of Lázaro Law Group, LLC, specializing in sexual harassment and employment law. He has extensive litigation experience in Illinois, Puerto Rico, and U.S. courts, including cases under sections 1983 and 1981. Previously, he worked at Seyfarth Shaw LLP and Stowell & Friedman Ltd., representing Fortune 100 companies and handling employee class action lawsuits. Mr. Lázaro is known for his practical approach to resolving employment disputes and has secured over $50 million in settlements for his clients.


    In addition to his legal practice, Mr. Lázaro frequently trains HR professionals and managers on topics such as sexual harassment, retaliation, and employee performance management for major companies like Boeing, Costco, McDonald's, and Walgreens. He is a sought-after speaker on employment law issues, including medical marijuana’s impact on workplace policies and strategies for reclassifying misclassified employees. A Cornell Law School graduate, Mr. Lázaro clerked for the Honorable Juan Pérez-Giménez of the U.S. District Court for the District of Puerto Rico and is licensed to practice in Illinois and Puerto Rico. He resides in Evanston, Illinois, with his wife and children.


    In this episode…

    Have you ever wondered what it truly means to work with a lawyer? Rafael shares his unique perspective on the attorney-client relationship, emphasizing the importance of transparency and honesty. He reveals why withholding information can be detrimental to your case and how understanding the legal process can empower you to navigate your situation with confidence. This episode is packed with insights that could change the way you view legal representation.


    Rafael discusses the alarming prevalence of gender discrimination and sexual harassment in today's workplaces. You might be surprised to learn about the subtle forms of harassment that often go unrecognized. What constitutes a hostile work environment? Where do we draw the line? These are just a few of the pressing questions that Rafael addresses, challenging listeners to rethink their assumptions about workplace dynamics.


    But it’s not just about identifying problems; it’s also about finding solutions. Rafael shares practical steps that individuals can take if they find themselves facing harassment or discrimination. From documenting incidents to understanding the importance of internal complaints, his advice is invaluable for anyone looking to protect their rights in the workplace.



    In this episode of Verdict Signal, host Daniel Gouw interviews Rafael Lázaro, the founding member of Lázaro Law Group, a boutique employment law firm in Chicago. With over 25 years of experience, Rafael shares insights from his career, during which he has successfully recovered millions for workers facing issues like harassment, discrimination, retaliation, and wrongful termination. He uniquely litigates employment matters for both employees and employers, offering a diverse perspective in English and Spanish. Rafael discusses his early inspiration for pursuing law, rooted in his experiences with his grandfather, a lawyer and judge in Puerto Rico. Tune in to learn about the importance of workplace justice and how Rafael helps individuals and organizations navigate employment law challenges.

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    35 m
  • Matthew Fornaro: Why Skipping a Business Lawyer Could Destroy Your Company
    Mar 26 2026

    Matthew Fornaro provides practical, strategic legal guidance for businesses across South Florida. With over 20 years of experience, he helps entrepreneurs, startups, and established companies manage contracts, disputes, and risk—clearly and efficiently.


    Matthew began his career at AmLaw 200 firms, focusing on civil litigation—experience that continues to inform his business practice today. He is admitted to practice in Florida, New York, and the District of Columbia, and has mentored attorneys and business founders through entrepreneurship programs.


    In this episode…

    One of the most pressing questions for any budding entrepreneur is: when should you involve a lawyer in your business journey? Matthew sheds light on this critical decision, emphasizing that working with a business lawyer is not just a luxury—it's a necessity. But what are the potential pitfalls of waiting too long to seek legal guidance?


    Matthew discusses the various stages of a business's life cycle and the legal challenges that can arise at each point. From formation documents to partnership agreements, he highlights the importance of having the right legal framework in place. But what happens when things go awry? Matthew shares compelling stories of businesses that faced dire consequences for neglecting legal advice, leaving listeners on the edge of their seats.



    In this episode of Verdict Signal, host Daniel Gouw interviews Matthew Fornaro, a seasoned attorney with over 20 years of experience in providing strategic legal guidance for businesses in South Florida. Matthew shares his journey into the legal field, sparked by an early interest in dispute resolution inspired by shows like "The People's Court." He discusses his background in commercial litigation at major AMLA 200 law firms, where he represented large corporations, insurance companies, and banks. Matthew highlights his transition to focusing on business law, emphasizing the importance of helping entrepreneurs and established companies manage contracts, disputes, and risks effectively. Tune in to gain insigh

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    35 m
  • Erik Heninger Reveals the Hidden Truth About Medical Malpractice Cases
    Mar 19 2026

    Erik Heninger’s passion for law was ignited at the family dinner table, where his father, Steve Heninger, shared inspiring stories of helping those in need through legal advocacy. This early exposure laid the foundation for Erik's lifelong commitment to representing plaintiffs in courtrooms across the Southeast, making law a true family business. After earning his Bachelor of Arts in English from Birmingham-Southern College, Erik obtained his Juris Doctor from Cumberland School of Law in 2001. He is an active member of the State Bars of Alabama, Georgia, and Mississippi.

    As a dedicated advocate for the injured, Erik focuses on civil litigation, particularly for individuals who have suffered catastrophic injuries such as severe brain and spine damage. His practice encompasses a range of personal injury cases, including trucking and motor vehicle collisions, sexual abuse and assault, nursing home litigation, and medical negligence. With a compassionate approach and a deep understanding of these complex issues, Erik serves as a trusted ally for clients facing life-altering circumstances.

    mmitted to legal excellence and believes in the importance of continuous learning and giving back to the legal community. He is actively involved with the American Association of Justice (AAJ), where he frequently speaks and teaches trial advocacy to fellow lawyers.

    His leadership roles include serving as Past President of the Alabama Association of Justice (2022-2023) and as a Commissioner on the Alabama State Bar Board of Bar Commissioners (2015-2024). Additionally, he was President of the Alabama Civil Justice Foundation (2021-2022) and has held positions within the Birmingham Bar Grievance Committee.

    Recognized for his outstanding legal work, Erik has received numerous accolades throughout his career. He holds an "AV Preeminent" rating from Martindale-Hubbell and is board certified as a Civil Law Trial Advocate by the National Board of Trial Advocacy. As a member of the American Board of Trial Advocates since 2013 and a Fellow of the Litigation Counsel of America, Erik has also been named one of the "Top 50 Lawyers in Alabama" by Super Lawyers (2015, 2017-present) and has been selected as Lawyer of the Year by Best Lawyers for both 2021 and 2023.

    Outside of his legal pursuits, Erik values time spent with his wife, Kimberly, and their two children. Whether cheering from the sidelines at soccer games or supporting them at volleyball matches, he balances his professional commitments with a fulfilling family life. Erik combines extensive legal expertise with a genuine dedication to his clients' well-being. If you are seeking a compassionate and experienced attorney who will fight tirelessly for your rights, Erik is ready to stand by your side and help you navigate the complexities of personal injury law.


    In this episode…

    Erik recounts his unexpected journey into the legal field, shaped by his father's influence and his own evolving passions. He candidly discusses the common misconceptions surrounding lawyers and the art of persuasion, challenging the stereotype that attorneys are merely argumentative. Instead, he emphasizes the importance of building relationships and understanding the human side of the law, which is crucial when navigating the emotional landscape of personal injury cases.


    Erik breaks down this term, shedding light on how it encompasses not just physical trauma but also the profound mental health impacts that can arise from such experiences. He shares compelling stories that illustrate the real-life implications of these injuries, making it clear that the stakes are much higher than many people realize.

    In this episode of Verdict Signal, host Daniel Gouw interviews Erik Heninger, a plaintiff's trial attorney from

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    37 m
  • David Mallen: The Dangerous Cost of Ignoring Your Workplace Rights
    Feb 11 2026

    David Mallen began his labor and employment law practice in 1992, immediately after graduating from law school. The early years required navigating a steep learning curve, but he was fortunate to work alongside and learn from some of California’s most respected attorneys, serving both as mentee and co-counsel on high-impact cases.


    His dedication and results led to significant recognition. In 2004, at just 40 years old, David was among the youngest attorneys selected as a Southern California Super Lawyer for Employment Litigation. Now, with more than three decades of litigation experience, dozens of trials, and tens of millions of dollars recovered on behalf of thousands of employees, his approach remains unchanged.


    David personally speaks with all new callers seeking guidance on labor and employment law matters. He provides consultations at no charge and does not delegate this responsibility to staff. When a case qualifies, he commits fully, working legally and ethically to pursue justice and repair the harm suffered. He gives each client and each matter the focused attention it deserves and collaborates with some of California’s finest labor and employment attorneys. No case is too big or too small.



    In this episode…

    Have you ever felt uneasy about a situation at work but brushed it off as just a passing concern? David reveals why those gut feelings should never be ignored and how they can be the first signs of deeper issues. With a wealth of knowledge in labor and employment law, he shares compelling stories that illustrate the emotional toll workplace injustices can take on individuals. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who has ever felt marginalized or mistreated in their job.


    Curious about the common misconceptions surrounding employment law? David tackles the myths that often prevent employees from seeking help when they need it most.


    David’s heartfelt approach to advocacy shines through as he discusses the importance of empathy and connection in the attorney-client relationship.



    In this episode of Verdict Signal, host Daniel Gouw interviews David Mallen, a prominent attorney specializing in California labor and employment law. With over 34 years of experience, David has established himself as a leading advocate for employee rights, successfully recovering tens of millions of dollars for workers across the state. Recognized as a Southern California super lawyer and holding an AV rating from Martindale-Hubbell, David discusses his commitment to high-impact litigation involving workplace discrimination, wrongful termination, and wage disputes. He shares insights into his personal approach to advocacy and his role as a speaker on employee rights and workplace justice. The episode offers valuable perspectives for anyone interested in understanding the legal landscape regarding employee protections. Join us for an engaging conversation that highlights the importance of informed choices in navigating the complexities of labor law.

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    40 m