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Legally Ponzaneli

Stephanie Ponzaneli

Legally Ponzaneli is a podcast that pulls back the curtain on life in the legal world. I’m Stephanie Ponzaneli, a recent law grad, and each week I chat with law graduates about the twists, turns, and real-life experiences that led them to the law.

From surviving law school and tackling the bar exam to figuring out what comes after graduation, we dive into the challenges, lessons, and unexpected turns along the way. There’s no single path to becoming a lawyer and that’s exactly what makes each journey so unique.

Through honest conversations and real stories, Legally Ponzaneli celebrates the many ways people make their mark in the legal profession.

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23 episodes
Avg 43 min
English

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S1 · E23
Friday · 35 min
Constitutional Chisme: Peña-Rodriguez v. Colorado
Constitutional Chisme is your weekly mini-episode where your host Stephanie and co-host Harleigh break down the cases you’re most likely to see in law school! This week, we are covering Peña-Rodriguez v. Colorado: What happens when a juror’s racial bias influences the decision to convict? We’re breaking down the no-impeachment rule, and why the Supreme Court created a constitutional exception for racial bias in jury deliberations. Use code LEGALLYPONZ to get an additional $100 off whatever sale Kaplan Bar Prep is currently offering! Click the link to support the podcast and keep the chisme coming! Link: https://linktr.ee/legallyponzaneli
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S1 · E25
Thursday · 1 hr 3 min
Alfonso: It’s Never Too Late to Go to Law School
In this episode, Alfonso shares his journey from serving in the Marines and working full-time to pursuing his dream of becoming an attorney. When his kids were starting college, he told them, “Let’s see who finishes first,” and eventually enrolled at the University of La Verne College of Law. We talk about going to law school later in life, balancing work and family, his social media, dealing with online negativity, and his journey as a bar exam retaker now taking the California Bar Exam for the third time. Whether you're a law student, a bar retaker, or chasing a goal of your own, this episode is a reminder that there's no timeline for success. Follow us on social media and never miss an episode: https://linktr.ee/legallyponzaneli Kaplan Bar Prep Discount: Use code PASSWITHPONZ to save an additional $100 off Kaplan Bar Prep! #lawschool #barretaker #barprep #lawtok #lawyerpodcast
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S1 · E2
Tuesday · 26 min
EPISODE 2: LSAT Accommodations, Fee Waivers & Documentation: What You Need to Know
Taking the LSAT? Before you register, make sure you understand LSAT accommodations, documentation requirements, fees, fee waivers, and the appeal process. In this episode of Legally Ponzanelli, Stephanie breaks down what prospective law students need to know about requesting accommodations, avoiding common documentation mistakes, reducing LSAT costs, and preparing for registration and test day. 🔗 Find all of my discount codes, resources & links: https://linktr.ee/ponzanelish #lsat #lawschool #lsataccommodations #lawschooladmissions
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S1 · E22
August 21 · 37 min
Constitutional Chisme: Tanner v. United States
Constitutional Chisme is your weekly mini-episode where your host Stephanie and co-host Harleigh break down the cases you’re most likely to see in law school! This week, we are covering Tanner v. United States (1987): What happens when jurors are drinking, using drugs, and literally falling asleep during trial? We’re breaking down FRE 606(b), the “outside influence” exception, and why the Supreme Court still upheld the verdict. Use code PASSWITHPONZ to get an additional $100 off whatever sale Kaplan Bar Prep is currently offering and 20% off all Kaplan Bar Prep Supplements! Click the link to support the podcast and keep the chisme coming! Link: https://linktr.ee/legallyponzaneli
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S1 · E1
August 20 · 20 min
EPISODE 1: What Is the LSAT? | LSAT Series
Thinking about taking the LSAT or applying to law school? Start here! ⚖️📚 In Episode 1 of our LSAT series, we’re breaking down what the LSAT is, what is tested on the exam, and what you should know before you start studying. We’re also talking about LSAT prep resources and discount codes that can help you save money while preparing for the exam! Whether you’re just starting to think about law school or you already know you want to take the LSAT, this series is here to help you understand the process and know where to start. 📚 In this episode: • What is the LSAT? • What is tested on the LSAT? • What does the LSAT look like? • Where should you start with LSAT prep? • Discount codes to help you save on LSAT resources Make sure to like, subscribe, and follow along with the series for more LSAT tips and information! Have an LSAT question you want us to cover? Drop it in the comments and let us know what we should talk about next! Use this link to find all out discount codes and website: https://linktr.ee/ponzanelish
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S1 · E24
August 18 · 17 min
The Bar Exam Was Cancelled?! Sylvia’s NextGen Bar Journey
We welcome back Sylvia! She’s back to share her journey as a bar exam retaker, how she’s feeling this time around, what’s different, and how she’s staying confident as she prepares to (hopefully!) sit the Washington State Bar Exam this September. Unfortunately, Sylvia was one of the hundreds of future attorneys affected by the unexpected delay of the NextGen Bar Exam that was scheduled to be administered in July. Use the link below to find our free resources, discount codes, law merch, and more! Linktree: https://linktr.ee/legallyponzaneli
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S1 · E23
August 4 · 59 min
Meet Paulette: Criminal Defense & White Collar Attorney
In this episode, Attorney Paulette shares her journey from being a first-generation law student at Suffolk University Law School to opening her own criminal defense law firm. We discuss moving to Boston without knowing anyone, working throughout law school to make ends meet, the importance of networking, and how failing the bar exam ultimately led her to the career she was meant to have. Paulette also breaks down the differences between criminal defense and white-collar law, shares why she changed her career path from prosecution to defense. Whether you're studying for the bar exam, interested in criminal defense, or simply looking for encouragement on your own journey, this episode is full of inspiration! Follow us on social media, support the show, and never miss an episode: https://linktr.ee/legallyponzaneli Kaplan Bar Prep Discount: Use code PASSWITHPONZ to save an additional $100 off Kaplan Bar Prep, and it stacks with current promotions and sales!
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S1 · E21
July 31 · 44 min
Annie: Law School Besties Turned Law Firm Owners!
In this episode, Annie Ho shares her journey from practicing law for five years to co-founding Texas Law Gals, a women-owned personal injury law firm in Houston, Texas, with her law school best friend. We discuss the importance of branding, how they came up with the firm's name, and what it's like owning your own law firm! Annie also breaks down how personal injury law works, including why clients don't need money upfront to hire an attorney, and shares how she uses TikTok to make legal concepts easy to understand. Whether you're interested in personal injury law, entrepreneurship, or legal careers, this episode is full of practical advice and inspiration. Follow us on social media, support the show, and never miss an episode: https://linktr.ee/legallyponzaneli Kaplan Bar Prep Discount: Use code PASSWITHPONZ to save an additional $100 off Kaplan Bar Prep, and it stacks with current promotions and sales!
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S1 · E22
July 31 · 52 min
What the F Happened? The Washington Bar Exam Victim tells all.
In this bonus episode, Ki'Ev, a graduate of Howard University School of Law, joins me to share what it was like (attempting to take) taking the July 2026 Washington Bar Exam and the chaos that unfolded when everything went wrong. We also discuss the emotional toll this experience has had on applicants whose futures were suddenly thrown into uncertainty, what happens next for the hundreds of examinees affected, and why so many are calling for accountability. This episode is a firsthand account of a moment that will likely be remembered in bar exam history. We talk about the future of the NextGen Bar Exam, what this means for aspiring attorneys, and why the voices of those impacted deserve to be heard. Follow us on social media, support the show, and never miss an episode: https://linktr.ee/legallyponzaneli Kaplan Bar Prep Discount: Use code PASSWITHPONZ to save an additional $100 off Kaplan Bar Prep, and it stacks with current promotions and sales!
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S1 · E19
July 27 · 57 min
Legally Harleigh Takes Over: Bar Exam Eve for Stephanie
In this episode, the tables are turned as Harleigh interviews Stephanie just 48 hours before she retakes the Arkansas Bar Exam. Stephanie opens up about what it feels like to prepare for the bar exam a second time, how this experience has been different from her first attempt, and the changes she's made in her study routine, mindset, and approach. She also shares the emotions, doubts, and determination she's carrying into exam day. Whether you're getting ready for the bar exam, preparing for a retake, or simply looking for an honest look at the realities of this journey, this episode is for you! Follow us on social media, support the show, and never miss an episode: https://linktr.ee/legallyponzaneli Kaplan Bar Prep Discount: Use code PASSWITHPONZ to save an additional $100 off Kaplan Bar Prep, and it stacks with current promotions and sales!
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S1 · E21
July 23 · 28 min
Constitutional Chisme: Terry v. Ohio
Constitutional Chisme is your weekly mini-episode where your host Stephanie and co-host Harleigh break down the cases you’re most likely to see in law school! This week, we are covering the landmark case Terry v. Ohio. The case raised important questions about whether the Fourth Amendment allows a police officer to stop and briefly frisk a person for weapons without probable cause to arrest if the officer reasonably suspects the person is involved in criminal activity and may be armed and dangerous. Use code PASSWITHPONZ to get an additional $100 off whatever sale Kaplan Bar Prep is currently offering and 20% off all Kaplan Bar Prep Supplements! Click the link to support the podcast and keep the chisme coming! Link: https://linktr.ee/legallyponzaneli
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S1 · E20
July 13 · 22 min
Constitutional Chisme: Berkemer v. McCarty
Constitutional Chisme is your weekly mini-episode where your host Stephanie and co-host Harleigh break down the cases you’re most likely to see in law school! This week, we are covering the landmark case Berkemer v. McCarty. The case raised important questions about the constitutional rights of individuals during police encounters and whether statements made during a routine traffic stop are admissible when a suspect has not been advised of their Miranda rights. Use code PASSWITHPONZ to get an additional $100 off whatever sale Kaplan Bar Prep is currently offering and 20% off all Kaplan Bar Prep Supplements! Click the link to support the podcast and keep the chisme coming! Link: https://linktr.ee/legallyponzaneli
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S1 · E19
July 9 · 33 min
Constitutional Chisme: Miranda v. Arizona
Constitutional Chisme is your weekly mini-episode where your host Stephanie and co-host Harleigh break down the cases you’re most likely to see in law school! This week, we are covering the landmark case Miranda v. Arizona. The case raised important questions about the constitutional rights of individuals during police interrogations and whether statements made by a suspect in custody are admissible when the suspect was not informed of their Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination and Sixth Amendment right to an attorney. The Supreme Court's decision established the Miranda warnings, requiring law enforcement to advise individuals of their rights before conducting a custodial interrogation. Just a friendly reminder: nothing discussed on this podcast constitutes legal advice. We are not your lawyers! Use code PASSWITHPONZ to get an additional $100 off whatever sale Kaplan Bar Prep is currently offering. Click the link to support the podcast and keep the chisme coming! Link: https://linktr.ee/legallyponzaneli
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S1 · E20
July 5 · 1 hr 7 min
Maggie: Louisiana Bar Exam
In this episode, Maggie Maddox shares her experience preparing for and passing the Louisiana Bar Exam. We discuss what makes the Louisiana Bar Exam so different from every other state, from its civil law foundation based on the Napoleonic Code to its three nine-hour testing days spread across Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Maggie shares the professors and mentors who helped prepare her for success, the mindset that carried her through the exam! Whether you're preparing for the bar exam, considering taking the Louisiana Bar, or simply curious about one of the country's most unique licensing exams, this is the episode for you! Follow us on social media, support the show, and never miss an episode: https://linktr.ee/legallyponzaneli Kaplan Bar Prep Discount: Use code PASSWITHPONZ to save an additional $100 off Kaplan Bar Prep, and it stacks with current promotions and sales!
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S1 · E18
July 3 · 30 min
Constitutional Chisme: Roper v. Simmons
Constitutional Chisme is your weekly mini-episode where your host Stephanie and co-host Harleigh break down the cases you’re most likely to see in law school! This week, we are covering Roper v. Simmons. The case raised important questions about the constitutionality of the death penalty for juvenile offenders and whether executing individuals who were under the age of 18 at the time of their crimes violates the Eighth Amendment to the United States Constitution prohibition against cruel and unusual punishment. Use code PASSWITHPONZ to get an additional $100 off whatever sale Kaplan Bar Prep is currently offering. Click the link to support the podcast and keep the chisme coming! Link: https://linktr.ee/legallyponzaneli
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S1 · E19
June 28 · 1 hr 14 min
Maggie: From Law School to Federal Clerkship
In this episode, Maggie Maddox shares her extraordinary journey from foster care to becoming an attorney, proving that our beginnings do not define our future. Adopted at the age of four after spending her early childhood in foster care, Maggie reflects on how her experiences shaped not only her life but also her passion for advocating for children and families navigating the legal system. We also discuss her law school experience, including the many opportunities to learn from federal judges, the importance of on-campus interviews, and the unconventional path that led to securing her clerkship. Follow us on social media, support the show, and never miss an episode: https://linktr.ee/legallyponzaneli Kaplan Bar Prep Discount: Use code PASSWITHPONZ to save an additional $100 off Kaplan Bar Prep, and it stacks with current promotions and sales!
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S1 · E17
June 26 · 1 hr 1 min
Constitutional Chisme Obergefell v. Hodges
Constitutional Chisme is your weekly mini-episode where your host Stephanie and co-host Harleigh break down the cases you’re most likely to see in law school. This week, in honor of the 11th anniversary of Obergefell v. Hodges, we are revisiting the landmark Supreme Court decision that recognized same-sex marriage as a fundamental right. Under the Fourteenth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, all states must license a marriage between two people of the same sex and recognize such a marriage if it was lawfully licensed and performed in another state. Use code PASSWITHPONZ to get an additional $100 off whatever sale Kaplan Bar Prep is currently offering. Click the link to support the podcast and keep the chisme coming! Link: https://linktr.ee/legallyponzaneli
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S1 · E16
June 23 · 24 min
Constitutional Chisme: Garratt v. Dailey
Constitutional Chisme is your weekly mini-episode where your host Stephanie and co-host Harleigh break down the cases you’re most likely to see in law school. This week, we are covering Garratt v. Dailey. The case raised important questions about intent in battery and whether a person can be liable for battery if they did not specifically intend to harm someone but knew with substantial certainty that harmful contact would occur. Use code PASSWITHPONZ to get an additional $100 off whatever sale Kaplan Bar Prep is currently offering. Click the link to support the podcast and keep the chisme coming! Link: https://linktr.ee/legallyponzaneli
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S1 · E15
June 18 · 26 min
Constitutional Chisme: Merrell Dow Pharmaceuticals v. Thompson
Constitutional Chisme is your weekly mini-episode where your host Stephanie and co-host Harleigh break down the cases you’re most likely to see in law school. This week, we are covering Merrell Dow Pharmaceuticals v. Thompson. The case raised important questions about federal-question jurisdiction and whether a state-law claim that references a federal statute can be heard in federal court. Use code PASSWITHPONZ to get an additional $100 off whatever sale Kaplan Bar Prep is currently offering. Click the link to support the podcast and keep the chisme coming! Link: https://linktr.ee/legallyponzaneli
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S1 · E17
June 16 · 1 hr 12 min
Selita: From the Workforce to a Full-Ride Law School Scholarship
In this episode, Selita shares her nontraditional journey to becoming an attorney and the lessons she learned along the way. Before attending college, Selita spent 7–8 years in the workforce, proving that there is no single timeline for pursuing your dreams. From earning her bachelor's degree in Communications from the University of Missouri–St. Louis to receiving a full-ride scholarship to Michigan State University College of Law, Selita opens up about the importance of perseverance, community, and finding lifelong friendships throughout law school. We also discuss representation in the legal profession and on social media. As a proud Tongan woman from the South Pacific Islands, Selita began creating TikTok content because she rarely saw people who looked like her sharing their experiences online. Through her content, she has become the representation she wished she had growing up. Whether you're a law student, bar exam taker, first-generation professional, or someone pursuing a dream on your own timeline, Selita's story is a powerful reminder that resilience, representation, and determination can take you further than you ever imagined. Follow us on social media, support the show, and never miss an episode: https://linktr.ee/legallyponzaneli Subscribe, leave a review, and share the podcast with a future attorney who needs to hear this story. Kaplan Bar Prep Discount: Use code PASSWITHPONZ to save an additional $100 off Kaplan Bar Prep, and it stacks with current promotions and sales!
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