What do poker tables and jury trials have in common? In this episode of Legal Latitudes, Federico Lathrop sits down with employment litigation lawyer Raj Guha to unpack a journey that runs from UCLA biochemistry, to seven years as a professional poker player, to fighting for employees’ civil rights in court.

Raj shares how strategy, discipline, and the ability to read people carried him from the card room to the courtroom. Along the way, he breaks down common myths around wrongful termination and hostile work environments, explains why telling your lawyer the truth is non-negotiable, and reveals the biggest lessons he learned starting a firm from scratch.

Whether you’re an employee wondering about your rights, a lawyer thinking of going solo, or just curious how poker strategy translates to trial advocacy, this episode is packed with stories, insights, and practical takeaways. You will have fun listening and learn tons.

In this episode of Legal Latitudes, we sit down with the an awesome nice kind and great lawyer. Ike Kaludi—a powerhouse trial lawyer with Indian-Ecuadorian roots.

We talk about everything from growing up Catholic and questioning authority, to channeling personal truth in front of a jury, and how being real beats being rehearsed—every time.

Ike opens up about his time at the Trial Lawyers College, how authenticity and vulnerability changed the way he tries cases, and why cross-examination isn’t just strategy—it’s storytelling.

We also dig into:

• How your culture and upbringing shape your presence in the courtroom
• Why every depo should be treated like a cross
• The art of finding real witnesses who move a jury
• What it takes to stand out as a trial lawyer today

This one’s full of insights, truth bombs, and heart. Whether you’re a young lawyer, a seasoned vet, or just love a good story about resilience and realness, you don’t want to miss this conversation.

🎙️ New episode of Legal Latitudes—streaming now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and everywhere you listen.

In this episode of Legal Latitudes, we sit down with Arya Tahmassebi — trial lawyer, law firm partner, and rising force in LA’s personal injury scene.

Arya shares what it was like starting out in one of the most competitive markets in the country, working his way from law student to partner at Mendez & Sanchez, one of the fastest-growing firms in Los Angeles.

We talk about what keeps trial lawyers hooked on the courtroom, how to scale a practice without burning out, and what it takes to lead — especially when your team is remote and working across borders. (Yes, Arya's team includes members based in Honduras.)

We also get into law firm systems, the role of AI, and how to keep your edge as a young lawyer navigating both business and litigation.

Whether you’re trying to build your own firm, love trial work, or just want to hear a sharp and humble perspective on making it in law — this one’s for you.