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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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32 episodes
Avg 44 min
English

Episodes 32

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S2 · E5
Wednesday · 39 min
Fernanda: Creating Impact Through Marketing
In this episode, Fernanda Souza shares her journey in marketing, how she found her way to Kaplan, and what it’s really like working behind the scenes in test preparation. She opens up about building a career in marketing, working remotely, networking, and finding confidence in communication. She also gives us an inside look at affiliate marketing, social media, content creation, and working with influencers, while sharing career advice and tips for anyone interested in getting into marketing. Follow us on social media, support the show, and never miss an episode: https://linktr.ee/legallyponzaneli
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S2 · E4
September 24 · 1 hr 3 min
Legally Je: Before Social Media: Her Journey to Becoming an Attorney
In this episode, she opens up about her journey from Venezuela to law school in Boston, how she used multiple law school acceptances to negotiate a better scholarship, and what her bar exam experience was really like. She also shares how her job gave her paid leave to study for the bar and covered her bar prep and exam expenses, plus what it takes to transfer a UBE score to Florida. And this conversation happened before she became known on social media, so we’re getting to hear the story behind the person before the platform, the following, and everything that came with it. Follow us on social media, support the show, and never miss an episode: https://linktr.ee/legallyponzaneli
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S1 · E26
September 21 · 25 min
Constitutional Chisme: Hertz Corp. v. Friend
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 Hertz Corp. v. Friend. Hertz sought to remove the case to federal court based on diversity jurisdiction, arguing its principal place of business was its New Jersey headquarters. The lower courts applied a "business activities" test and kept the case in state court because Hertz did more business in California than anywhere else. The Supreme Court granted certiorari to resolve a circuit split regarding how to determine a corporation's citizenship. Click the link to support the podcast and keep the chisme coming! Link: https://linktr.ee/legallyponzaneli
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S2 · E3
September 16 · 1 hr 16 min
Alejandra: JD + Master’s at the Same Time!
In this episode Alejandra shares her journey from working and saving for two years before law school to becoming an immigration attorney in Washington State. As the child of immigrants, she opens up about starting her entire 1L year over Zoom during the pandemic and earning her JD and a master’s degree at the same time. Whether you’re considering law school, navigating law school during an unexpected season of life, balancing multiple goals, or simply need a reminder that your path doesn’t have to look like everyone else’s, Alejandra’s story is one you won’t want to miss. Follow us on social media, support the show, and never miss an episode: https://linktr.ee/legallyponzaneli
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S1 · E25
September 12 · 27 min
Constitutional Chisme: Strawbridge v. Curtiss
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 Strawbridge v. Curtiss (1806), strawbridge and other Massachusetts citizens sued Curtiss and a group of defendants who were mostly from Vermont. However, because at least one defendant was also from Massachusetts, the Supreme Court had to decide if federal courts could hear cases where parties on opposing sides shared state citizenship. 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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S2 · E3
September 10 · 1 hr 13 min
Abby: From Paralegal Studies to Law School
In this episode, Abby shares her journey from studying paralegal studies to becoming a law school graduate at the University of Toledo College of Law. Abby opens up about taking the LSAT three times, being rejected from law school, and refusing to let that rejection stop her from pursuing her goal. Abby also shares the importance of perseverance, community, and learning to make the most of the resources around you. Whether you're considering law school, preparing for the LSAT, navigating law school, or simply need a reminder that one rejection or setback doesn't define your journey. Follow us on social media, support the show, and never miss an episode: https://linktr.ee/legallyponzaneli Kaplan Bar Prep Discount: Use code LEGALLYPONZ to save an additional $100 off Kaplan Bar Prep, and it stacks with current promotions and sales!
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S1 · E26
September 8 · 59 min
Ki’ev: Inside the NextGen Bar Exam
In this episode, Ki’ev gives us an inside look at what the Next Gen Bar Exam is like! She walks us through the program, shows us how it works, and gives us a look at what future test takers can expect. Whether you're a law student, preparing to take the Next Gen Bar Exam, or just curious about what the new bar exam prep looks like, this episode gives you a behind-the-scenes look at what to expect! Follow us on social media and never miss an episode: https://linktr.ee/legallyponzaneli Kaplan Bar Prep Discount: Use code LEGALLYPONZ to save an additional $100 off Kaplan Bar Prep!
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S1 · E24
September 6 · 34 min
Constitutional Chisme: World-Wide Volkswagen Corp. v. Woodson
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 World-Wide Volkswagen Corp. v. Woodson. Can Oklahoma exercise personal jurisdiction over an out-of-state car retailer and distributor when the only connection to Oklahoma is that a car they sold in New York was involved in an accident there? We’re breaking down minimum contacts, purposeful availment, and why foreseeability alone isn’t enough to establish personal jurisdiction. 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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S2 · E1
September 4 · 31 min
How I Passed the Bar Exam the Second Time
In this episode, I’m sharing what I changed for the July 2026 Bar Exam, from my MBE strategy and visual outlines to PMBR, MPTs, MEEs, and taking better care of myself during bar prep. If you’re a retaker, I hope this helps you figure out what worked for me and what might work for you. You’ve got this! PLUS, a special announcement: we’re doing ANOTHER Kaplan Bar Prep giveaway! Use code: LEGALLYPONZ to save an additional $100 off your Kaplan Bar Prep! (If the code doesn't work let us know so we can make sure it does!)
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S1 · E23
August 28 · 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
August 27 · 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 LEGALLYPONZ to save an additional $100 off Kaplan Bar Prep! #lawschool #barretaker #barprep #lawtok #lawyerpodcast
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S1 · E2
August 25 · 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!
- Transcript
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
- Transcript

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