So Many Questions Podcast: Breaking Barriers and Building Impact with Guest Jacqueline Newman, Managing Partner of Berkman Bottger Newman & Schein, LLP
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In this episode of the So Many Questions podcast, Moses Singer CEO Rebecca Goodman-Stephens speaks with Jacqueline Newman, Managing Partner of Berkman Bottger Newman & Schein, LLP, about her trailblazing role in the legal profession and her efforts to create meaningful impact beyond her practice.
Jacqueline reflects on her journey to becoming the managing partner of the largest matrimonial law firm in Manhattan, navigating an industry where women leaders remain underrepresented. She shares the creation of the 2181 Group, a network for women managing partners named for the projected year of gender parity, and her mission to accelerate progress.
The conversation also explores Jacqueline’s entrepreneurial ventures, including launching Muffin Crumbles with her daughter and creating the Gift of Giving Store, which brings joy to families in domestic violence shelters. These projects reflect her belief in resilience, creativity, and the importance of giving back.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in leadership, gender equity in law, and building a purpose-driven career that extends beyond business success.
Episode Timeline and Highlights
(00:00) Intro & podcast mission
(00:29) Introduction: Jacqueline and Rebecca’s kickoff
(00:45) Jacqueline’s early inspiration & law interest
(01:12) Unexpected path to matrimonial law
(03:32) First job in matrimonial practice
(04:18) Evolving role into leadership & partnership
(06:04) Defining firm culture & intentional leadership
(08:21) Culture rituals: surprise events, spa, scavenger hunts
(11:59) Hiring: "Will you annoy me?" and people fit
(13:35) Introducing the Culture Index tool
(17:30) Giving back: Gift of Giving Store (pop-ups in shelters)
(22:52) The “Muffin Crumbles” venture with her daughter
(26:32) Vision for growth: preserving relationships and culture
(29:44) Milestone “gifts to myself” & setting boundaries
(33:40) Women in leadership & launching the 2181 Group
(38:49) Advice to younger self: relax, have fun, smile
(39:45) Closing remarks & podcast outro
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