Tales of The Tribunal

SEASON 7 OPENER - Tafadzwa Pasipanodya, Foley Hoag

Welcome back to Tales of the Tribunal – Season 7 is here!

After a bit of a break, we’re thrilled to be back with a new season of global stories, personal journeys, and bold conversations from the world of international law and dispute resolution. Thanks for sticking with us!

We’re kicking off this season with a long-overdue conversation with none other than Tafadzwa “Tafi” Pasipanodya, Partner at Foley Hoag LLP in Washington, D.C., and a fierce advocate for sovereign states in high-stakes international disputes.

In this powerful and wide-ranging discussion, Tafi shares her journey from Harare to Princeton to NYU Law, and how her passion for international justice and post-conflict reconstruction led her to represent states at the ICJ, in investor-state arbitrations, and beyond.

She also dives deep into:

• How she manages the balance between technical complexity and compelling storytelling in arbitration

• The legitimacy crisis in ISDS and what true diversity means in global adjudication

• Her work with the ICC Court of Arbitration, the African Society of International Law, and an upcoming book on Africa and the Law of the Sea

• Plus: surf lessons, parenting in the tech age, and dancing to Afrobeats in Lisbon 🌍🎶

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⏱️ Timestamps:

• Opening Notes: 00:00:36

• Interview Begins: ~00:02:30

• Closing Notes: ~00:59:20

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📚 Books Mentioned:

• The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness – Jonathan Haidt
  ➤ Link

🎶 Music & Genres Mentioned:

• • Afrobeats – 🎧 Essence by Wizkid ft. Tems
    A defining track in the modern Afrobeats movement.

  • Salsa – 💃 Vivir Mi Vida by Marc Anthony
    A modern salsa classic with broad appeal and great energy.

  • Classical Music – 🎻 Cello Suite No. 1 in G Major – J.S. Bach (Yo-Yo Ma)
    An iconic cello performance by one of the most famous cellists.

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🔗 After the Show 
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Feedback, comments or submissions: TalesOfTheTribunal@Gmail.com

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None of the views shared today or any episode of Tales of the Tribunal is presented as legal advice nor advice of any kind. No compensation was provided to any organization or party for their inclusion on the show nor do any of the statements made represent any particular organization, legal position or view point. All interviewees or organizations included appear on an arms-length basis and their appearance should not be construed as any bias or preferred affiliation with the host or host’s employer. All rights reserved.

2025 AtlAs Pre-Moot

Show Notes:

Welcome back to another edition of Tales of the Tribunal! This week, we bring you an exciting deep dive into the first-ever AtlAS Pre-Moot, a premier event in the Southeast U.S. designed to sharpen the skills of aspiring arbitration advocates before the Vis Moots in Vienna and Hong Kong.

Hosted in Atlanta, Georgia, this inaugural Pre-Moot featured teams from:

🏛️ University of South Carolina School of Law
🏛️ University of Georgia School of Law
🏛️ Campbell University School of Law
🏛️ Emory University School of Law

The competition brought intensity, brilliance, and camaraderie — setting the tone for what may become a major annual tradition in the arbitration calendar.

🏆 Results Recap:
🥇 Champion: University of Georgia (UGA)
🥈 Runner-Up: Campbell Law
🥉 Third Place: University of South Carolina

Tune in as we share highlights, behind-the-scenes moments, and exclusive interviews with team members, coaches, and organizers who made this event a huge success.

 

Time Stamps:

University of South Carolina -1:30 

University of Georgia - 5:33

Zach Torres-Fowler, Troutman Pepper - 10:00

Emory - 11:55

Campbell - 15:23

Closing Notes - 19:50

Disputes Digest - Week of February 24, 2025

DISPUTES DIGEST

Week of February 24, 2025

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Check out our website: TalesOfTheTribunal.com

For Feedback, comments or submissions contact TalesOfTheTribunal@Gmail.com

News:

• How Russia’s legal tactics are undermining international dispute resolution; here and here
• The Senegal-ArcelorMittal dispute: can a billion-dollar settlement can be undone? here
• Libya’s legal struggles: failed appeals, investment disputes, and the limits of arbitration; here
• Nigeria’s brand new ADR policies

None of the views shared today or any episode of Disputes Digest is presented as legal advice nor advice of any kind.  No compensation was provided to any organization or party for their inclusion on the show nor do any of the statements made represent any particular organization, legal position or viewpoint.  All interviewees or organizations included appear on an arms-length basis and their appearance should not be construed as any bias or preferred affiliation with the host or host’s employer.  All rights reserved.

Disputes Digest - Week of February 17, 2025

DISPUTES DIGEST

Week of February 20, 2025

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Check out our website: TalesOfTheTribunal.com

For Feedback, comments or submissions contact TalesOfTheTribunal@Gmail.com

News:

• LCIA appoints a new President – that’s Maxi Scherer, here
• SIAC Rules 2025: a Fresh Approach to Flexibility and Efficiency in Arbitration, here
• The Updated Energy Charter Treaty aims at balancing Investment Protection and Climate Goals, here
• Legal Crossfire: How the EU Shut Down Russia’s Arbitration Blockade, here and here
• Enforcement of Arbitral Awards in Switzerland, here

None of the views shared today or any episode of Disputes Digest is presented as legal advice nor advice of any kind.  No compensation was provided to any organization or party for their inclusion on the show nor do any of the statements made represent any particular organization, legal position or viewpoint.  All interviewees or organizations included appear on an arms-length basis and their appearance should not be construed as any bias or preferred affiliation with the host or host’s employer.  All rights reserved.

The 32nd Vis Moot Case File

In a Tales of the Tribunal exclusive, we provide an audio version of the 32nd Wilhelm C. Vis Moot Case Problem.  The same will be loaded on our forthcoming YouTube Channel.

This was an ambitious and exciting undertaking and we are eager to know your thoughts!

If you would like your work--legal article, arbitral rules, or other documents produced in similar fashion, please get in touch at:

TalesOfTheTribunal@Gmail.com 

 

Track List for Vis Problem (2024-2025)

• Intro – Vis Moot Case File
• Intro 2 (The Problem Description)
  1. 00h 00m 39s
• Letter by Langweiler – July 31, 2024
  1. 00h 01m 37s
• Request for Arbitration
  1. 00h 04m 00s
• Claimant’s Exhibit 1 (CE1) – Request for Quotation, Equatoriana Ren Power
  1. 00h 32m 26s
• Claimant’s Exhibit 2 (CE2) – Purchase and Service Agreement
  1. 00h 39m 09s
• Claimant’s Exhibit 3 (CE3) – Article from Transition News
  1. 00h 51m 24s
• Claimant’s Exhibit 4 (CE4) – Email from GreenHydro dated August 26, 2023
  1. 00h 56m 19s
• Claimant’s Exhibit 5 (CE5) – Witness Statement of Poul Cavendish
  1. 00h 59m 37s
• Claimant’s Exhibit 6 (C6) – Letter from GreenHydro dated 29 February 2024
  1. 01h 11m 19s
• Claimant’s Exhibit 7 (C7) – Letter from GreenHydro dated 25 May 2024
  1. 01h 14m 09s
• FAI Letters beginning 31 July, 2024
  1. 01h 16m 14s
• Letter from Fastrack dated 14 August 2024
  1. 01h 23m 07s
• Answer to Request for Arbitration
  1. 01h 24m 37s
• Respondent Exhibit 1 (RE1) – Witness Statement of Johanna Ritter
  1. 01h 38m 10s
• Respondent Exhibit 2 (RE2) – Email from GreenHydro dated 12 July 2023
  1. 01h 46m 38s
• Respondent Exhibit 3 (RE3) – Email from GreenHydro dated 10 July 2023
  1. 01h 49m 38s
• Respondent Exhibit 4 (RE4) – Article from Vindobona Legal
  1. 01h 52m 05s
• Letter by Langweiler dated 14 August 2024 to FAI making Objection
  1. 01h 55m 22s
• Claimant’s Exhibit 9 (CE8) – Witness Statement of August Wilhelm Deiman
  1. 01h 59m 18s
• Letter by FAI dated 15 August 2024 regarding Procedure
  1. 02h 02m 48s
• Letter by FAI, dated 27 August 2024 concerning decisions of the Board
  1. 02h 07m 34s

• Letter by FAI, dated 6 September 2024 – Confirming Appointment of Arbitrators
  1. 02h 10m 57s
• Letter by FAI, beginning 20 September 2024, concerning Appointment of Presiding Arbitrator
  1. 02h 13m 06s
• Letter by Greenhouse date 27 September 2024
  1. 02h 25m 48s
• Procedural Order No. 1
  1. 02h 27m 35s
• Procedural Order No. 2
  1. 02h 34m 05s
• Outro
  1. 02h 55m 55s

 

In Memoriam - Calvin Hamilton (December 2024)

We are saddened to learn of the passing of friend of the show and previous guest, Calvin Hamilton.  Calvin was a dear friend and he will be missed by those that knew him including a number of institutions in the international and commercial legal worlds. 

He was a champion for the underrepresented, especially those in the Caribbean and for supporting international law.

This episode is a re-air of his appearance on the show along with opening and closing notes honoring his legacy. 

Here is the GAR Article discussing his passing: https://globalarbitrationreview.com/article/in-memoriam

 

Opening Notes - :40

Episode Begins - 2:12

Personal Shift - 41:45

Closing Notes: 55:57

 

Comments and feedback may be sent to TalesOfTheTribunal@Gmail.com 

 

None of the views shared today or any episode of Tales of the Tribunal is presented as legal advice nor advice of any kind.  No compensation was provided to any organization or party for their inclusion on the show nor do any of the statements made represent any particular organization, legal position or view point.  All interviewees or organizations included appear on an arms-length basis and their appearance should not be construed as any bias or preferred affiliation with the host or host’s employer.  All rights reserved.

SEASON 6 FINALE - Dr. S.I. Strong

Dr. S.I. Strong 

Season 6 Finale! It has been action packed season here at Tales of the Tribunal and we have exciting new content and initiatives to bring you in the weeks and months ahead.  But before we get there, we bring you one more conversation --

 

This week, Chris sits down with Dr. Stacie Strong—a Californian at heart who built a career in international law, spanning continents and disciplines. From groundbreaking arbitration cases to her insights on AI, legal tech, and navigating the field of international dispute resolution, this episode is packed with inspiration, humor, and practical advice for aspiring lawyers and seasoned practitioners alike.

ARB-Tech:

https://www.arbtech.io/podcast 

VIAC Congress:

https://www.viac.eu/en/service/upcoming-events/3rd-viac-can-congress 

 

Time Stamps:

• Opening Notes - :40
• Interview Begins - 5:00
• Personal Interest - 52:333
• Closing Notes - 1:02:59

 

Books: @ 54:50

• Murder Your Employer: The McMasters Guide to Homicide by Rupert Holmes

Music: @ 57:35

• Choral Music
• The Monkees

 

Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/40833847/admin/

 

Check out our website: TalesOfTheTribunal.com

 

For Feedback, comments or submissions contact TalesOfTheTribunal@Gmail.com

None of the views shared today or any episode of Tales of the Tribunal is presented as legal advice nor advice of any kind.  No compensation was provided to any organization or party for their inclusion on the show nor do any of the statements made represent any particular organization, legal position or view point.  All interviewees or organizations included appear on an arms-length basis and their appearance should not be construed as any bias or preferred affiliation with the host or host’s employer.  All rights reserved.

S6E10 Dean Joel Samuels, University of South Carolina

Dean Joel Samuels, College of Arts and Sciences at the University of South Carolina

In this episode of Tales of the Tribunal, host Chris Campbell sits down with Joel Samuels, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at the University of South Carolina. Joel shares his incredible journey, from his childhood in Washington D.C. and Sierra Leone to becoming a leader in international law and academia. He discusses his role in founding the Rule of Law Collaborative, his career in both private practice and academia, and the importance of holistic justice. Joel also reflects on his leadership experiences, including coaching roller derby, and the lessons he's learned about leadership, law, and life. Whether you’re interested in international law, academia, or unique leadership experiences, this episode offers valuable insights and stories.

 

ARB-Tech:

https://www.arbtech.io/podcast 

 

Time Stamps:

• Opening Notes - :38
• Interview Begins - 2:30 
• Personal Interest - 42:05
• Closing Notes - 56:14

 

Books: @ 45:20

• What Happened to Ruthy Ramirez by Claire Jiménez (45:44)
• A Brilliant Commodity: Diamonds and Jews in a Modern Setting by Saskia Coenen Snyder (45:50)

 

Music: @ 46:30

• Michael Kiwanuka
• The National
• Best of 60s 70s & 80s

 

Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/40833847/admin/

 

Check out our website: TalesOfTheTribunal.com

 

For Feedback, comments or submissions contact TalesOfTheTribunal@Gmail.com

 

None of the views shared today or any episode of Tales of the Tribunal is presented as legal advice nor advice of any kind.  No compensation was provided to any organization or party for their inclusion on the show nor do any of the statements made represent any particular organization, legal position or view point.  All interviewees or organizations included appear on an arms-length basis and their appearance should not be construed as any bias or preferred affiliation with the host or host’s employer.  All rights reserved.

S6E9 Ng Jern-Fei, KC

Ng Jern-Fei, KC

Developing a global career is uniquely difficult task.  Doing that while building a reputation as an experienced King’s Counsel is even more amazing - In this episode of Tales of the Tribunal, we sit down with Jern-Fei Ng, a King's Counsel and barrister with a truly global practice spanning multiple jurisdictions including London, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, and Hong Kong. Jern-Fei shares insights into his journey from initially uncertain career ambitions to becoming an international arbitration specialist, describing himself as an "accidental" practitioner. The episode delves into Jern-Fei’s diverse legal experience, his involvement in multiple arbitration centers, and the influence of Singapore as a leading hub for international dispute resolution. Jern-Fei also offers candid advice for aspiring legal professionals, discusses the future of arbitration, and shares his thoughts on avoiding the pitfalls of "defensive arbitrating" and over-reliance on PowerPoint/Demonstratives in legal advocacy. The conversation touches on the importance of versatility, mentorship, and the role of language in international law.

ARB-Tech:

https://www.arbtech.io/podcast 

Time Stamps:

• Opening Notes - :34
• Interview Begins - 1:50
• Personal Interest - 45:06
• Closing Notes - 59:42

Books: @ 54:50

• The Musings by George Yeo 

 

Music: @ 57:35

• Cold Play
• Hans Zimmer
• Taylor Swift

Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/40833847/admin/

 

Check out our website: TalesOfTheTribunal.com

 

For Feedback, comments or submissions contact TalesOfTheTribunal@Gmail.com

 

None of the views shared today or any episode of Tales of the Tribunal is presented as legal advice nor advice of any kind.  No compensation was provided to any organization or party for their inclusion on the show nor do any of the statements made represent any particular organization, legal position or view point.  All interviewees or organizations included appear on an arms-length basis and their appearance should not be construed as any bias or preferred affiliation with the host or host’s employer.  All rights reserved.

S6E8 Mélida Hodgson - Arbitrator & Counsel

Mélida Hodgson

Careers in international arbitration will usually span the globe.  Across locations, cultures, industries and employers.  Mélida Hodgson has seen all of that in her career as an international practitioner and arbitrator.  

On this week’s episode she gives great insights and tips for jr. practitioners, LLM students and those actively practicing in the commercial arbitration space.  We also talk about the importance of diversity at a time where there are on-going role of DEI initiatives across the professional landscape.  Its a great conversation that I think you’ll enjoy!

 

ARBBalance Event on Imposter Syndrome:

Register here or via the QR Code on the flyer: https://lnkd.in/dGbPk9KF

 

ARB-Tech:

https://www.arbtech.io/podcast 

Time Stamps:

 

• Opening Notes - :36
• Interview Begins - 2:00
• Personal Interest - 49:01
• Closing Notes - 1:08:35

 

Books: @ 54:50

• Alexander Hamilton by Ron Chernow 
• En Agosto Now Vemos by Gabriel García Márquez

Music: @ 57:35

• Panamanian Music
• Classical Music
• Fleetwood Mac
• Beyonce

 

Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/40833847/admin/

 

Check out our website: TalesOfTheTribunal.com

 

For Feedback, comments or submissions contact TalesOfTheTribunal@Gmail.com

None of the views shared today or any episode of Tales of the Tribunal is presented as legal advice nor advice of any kind.  No compensation was provided to any organization or party for their inclusion on the show nor do any of the statements made represent any particular organization, legal position or view point.  All interviewees or organizations included appear on an arms-length basis and their appearance should not be construed as any bias or preferred affiliation with the host or host’s employer.  All rights reserved.