The Court Reporter Podcast

Most court reporters don't go to school thinking they're going to become entrepreneurs. But that's exactly what happens — and nobody teaches you how. Whitney Kumar and Kamryn Villegas did it anyway. The identical twins — one minute apart — spent 13 years building KW Court Reporting from the ground up: a $350-a-month office, note cards with their names on them as business cards, and their parents following them in a separate car to law firm parking lots to watch the babies while they knocked on doors with a tin of their mom's famous chocolate chip cookies. In this episode, they walk us through exactly how they built one of Southern California's most respected court reporting agencies — a roster of 200 reporters, a reputation for treating reporters like partners, and a client base built entirely on loyalty and love for the profession. We get into: And at the end — they're just about to tell us what happened with the Veritext acquisition. That's Episode 89. Don't miss it. Connect with Whitney & Kamryn:whitney@kwcourtreporting.com

What is a VTM? A Virtual Transcript Manager is a project manager for court reporters. They manage the coordination between scopists and proofreaders, the data, the deadlines, the captions and appearances, everything that allows court reporters to focus 100% on the part of the workflow that only we can do: showing up and taking down the testimony as accurately as possible, in realtime. I already know what you might be thinking -- if you haven't heard me talk about the VTM before and explain in depth what it is, you might be jumping to conclusions about some kind of AI tool to manage our transcripts. While that is my ultimate goal, right now it's 100% human-led while we solidify the process -- so if you were ever interested in my VTM program, NOW is the time to follow along and train your VTM with me. All you have to do is pick the right person -- whether you have to post the job on Indeed and host interviews like I did, or whether you have a college student you trust and can train, or a loyal scopist that's willing to take on project management of your transcripts (for an agreed-upon rate), feel free to join my cohort (this is coming into existence as I'm writing this) and we can totally train our VTMs together! If not, don't worry, we'll find an efficient way to document the full training process and share everything. Terms that come up in this episode: VTM (Virtual Transcript Manager) A person who manages the entire transcript process for a court reporter, from organizing files to coordinating scopists and proofreaders, so the reporter can focus on writing and taking jobs. Freelance Court Reporter A court reporter who works independently, taking jobs from different agencies or clients rather than being employed by one court or company. Calendar Calls Routine court proceedings where multiple cases are quickly reviewed or updated, usually without testimony or detailed arguments. Contested Hearing A hearing where witnesses testify and evidence is presented because there is a dispute between parties. Transcript The official written record of everything said during a legal proceeding. Scoping The process of editing a transcript using specialized software to clean up translation errors while verifying against the audio which is synced to the transcript. Scopist A professional who edits transcripts for court reporters. Proofreader The final reviewer who checks transcripts for grammar, punctuation, and accuracy before submission. CaseCAT (CaseCATalyst) A widely used software program that court reporters use to write, edit, and produce transcripts. Realtime The ability for a court reporter to translate stenography into readable text instantly as they write. Includes Pre-set text elements (like appearances, headers, or formatting blocks) inserted into transcripts to save time and maintain consistency. Appearance Page A section at the beginning of a transcript listing all attorneys, parties, and participants involved in the case. Caption The case heading at the top of a transcript that includes the court, case name, and case number. Expedite / Overnight / Daily Different turnaround times for transcripts: ExpediteOvernightDaily Board of Parole Hearings Administrative hearings where decisions are made about whether an inmate may be released from prison. Hard Stop A strict, non-negotiable time when work must end, regardless of whether proceedings are finished. Project Management (for Court Reporters) Tracking deadlines, managing transcript orders, coordinating team members, and ensuring timely delivery of work. Data Entry (in Court Reporting) Inputting case details, formatting elements, and transcript information into files and systems. OneDrive (Workflow Tool) A cloud storage system used to organize files, track deadlines, and collaborate securely. Mental Bandwidth The amount of mental capacity available to manage tasks, decisions, and responsibilities. Companies mentioned in this episode:

In this episode of The Court Reporter Podcast, Brynn sits down with Dr. Robert Lustig, a leading expert in metabolic health, to explore the science behind sugar, energy, and what’s really happening inside the body. From the perspective of court reporters and legal professionals, this conversation goes beyond health advice. It offers insight into how expert witnesses think, how complex medical testimony is structured, and why understanding these concepts can elevate your confidence in the room. Dr. Lustig shares his journey from medicine to studying public health law, explains the difference between behavior and biochemistry, and breaks down how systemic factors may be influencing health outcomes on a much larger scale. The conversation also touches on practical, real-life strategies for maintaining focus and energy during long depositions — something every court reporter can relate to. In this episode, we cover: Key Terms Mentioned: Resources & Further Reading: Connect & Share: If you found this episode helpful, share it with another court reporter! Coming Next: A conversation with Whitney and Kamryn breaking down the Veritext acquisition and what it means for court reporters.

In this episode, I’m taking you behind the scenes of a decision I’ve been talking about for years… but am finally executing. At the start of 2026, I made a commitment to either walk away from this profession or step fully into becoming a high-level, real-time court reporter. No more in-between. So I did something different. I reached out to some of the top real-time reporters in the industry and offered $10,000 for true coaching and accountability. Not casual mentorship, but real structure, real expectations, and real follow-through. Joshua Edwards was the first to say yes. This episode is a raw recording from our first session together. It’s unfiltered, honest, and full of the kinds of conversations that don’t usually get shared publicly… but probably should. We talk about: This is just the beginning. I’m documenting the entire journey as I work toward becoming a real-time reporter, not just for myself, but for anyone else who feels stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of what they’re missing. If that’s you… you’re not alone.

What is the court reporter’s role when something on the record feels… wrong? And how can court reporters and interpreters work together effectively to enhance the record-taking process? In this episode, Brynn explores one of the most nuanced and debated issues in court reporting: working with interpreters (including "underqualified" or reporter-illiterate interpreters). Where is the line between neutrality and responsibility? When should a reporter remain silent, and when is it necessary to speak up? Drawing from real deposition experiences, industry discussions, and state rules across New York, California, Texas, and Illinois, this episode breaks down what the law says and what actually happens in the room. More importantly, it challenges a deeper question: Are we simply capturing the record… or are we responsible for protecting it? 🎧 In This Episode content vs. structure ⚖️ Rules & Authorities Referenced This episode references the following rules and professional guidance: New York – CPLR § 3113(b)California – Court Reporters Board Best PracticesTexas – Rules of Civil Procedure 203.1 & 203.2Illinois – Supreme Court Rules 206 & 207National Court Reporters Association (NCRA) Code of Professional Ethics 🎯 Key Takeaway There is a critical difference between: Intervening in interpretation (not our role)Intervening when the structure of the record breaks down This episode explores where that line may exist—and why it matters. 🎤 Join the Conversation Have you experienced this in a deposition? Would you speak up… or stay silent? 🎙 You can now leave a voicemail directly for the podcast. Visit the Court Reporter Podcast website and click the green microphone button in the bottom right corner to record your message (up to 2 minutes). Longer thoughts? Submit multiple messages. Selected responses may be featured in an upcoming episode. 🔗 Connect & Share If this episode resonated with you, share it with a fellow court reporter, scopist, or legal professional. This is a conversation our industry needs to have.

Episode Description You know what no one tells you about remote depositions? It’s not the big mistakes that trip you up… It’s the small, seemingly harmless ones. The moments where you think you’re being helpful. The times you speak up when you shouldn’t… or stay quiet when you shouldn’t. In this episode, I’m sharing real stories from the field—times I learned the hard way what not to do as a court reporter. From awkward read-and-sign situations… To accidentally overstepping with attorneys… To one simple assumption that humbled me instantly… These are the lessons that don’t always get taught—but absolutely matter when you’re on the job. If you’re a new reporter—or even experienced—this episode will help you avoid the kinds of mistakes that can quietly impact your professionalism, confidence, and relationships with counsel. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: Key Takeaway In court reporting, it’s often the smallest decisions that have the biggest impact. Learning how to navigate those moments with clarity, neutrality, and confidence is what separates someone who is simply “getting through the job”… from someone who is truly in control of the room. Share This Episode If this episode helped you, share it with another court reporter—especially someone who’s just getting started. These are the lessons we usually learn the hard way… but they don’t have to be. Connect With Me 🎙️ The Court Reporter Podcast 📩 brynn@courtreporterpodcast.com NCRA-backed AI oversight bill receives sponsorship U.S. Rep. Hageman and U.S. Sens. Wicker and Welch introduce

Court reporting isn’t just about the record—it’s about the business you’re running (or the one that’s running you). In this episode, Brynn Seymour cuts through the industry noise to address the "hidden" side of the profession: the struggle to maintain total accuracy while managing the chaos of being a solo entrepreneur. Most reporters are trained to be brilliant stenographers, but they’re left in the dark when it comes to being CEOs. What we’re covering: The Business Gap:The LA Executive Roundtable:The Workflow Revolution: This isn't just a podcast; it’s a call to action. It’s time to stop waiting for the "9-to-5ers" to fix our industry and start building the solutions ourselves. Key Takeaways: Own the Business, Not Just the Seat:Tech as a Teammate:The Power of the Room:

The court reporting profession is confronted by rapid advancements in artificial intelligence and an alarming rise in reporter burnout. As the mechanisms for capturing and delivering the official record evolve, court reporters find themselves grappling with the immense responsibilities of their roles, often at full capacity. This episode delves into the tensions that have emerged within the industry, as well as the solutions. We advocate for a future where technology and the expertise of court reporters coexist harmoniously, building hybrid models that enhance efficiency without compromising the integrity of the profession. Our mission is to cultivate a collaborative environment that empowers reporters, optimizes administrative workflows, and ultimately upholds the pursuit of justice. Takeaways: And then, of course, my personal story for the last 5 minutes! :)

Scoping in the Age of AI (Part 2): Workflow Mastery, Coaching, and Avoiding AI "Scopist” Scams. In this episode, we continue the conversation as a Part 2 of Episode 77. Brynn discusses with Rachel Harris about hands-on coaching to streamline scoping and editing, including observing reporters via Zoom plus FaceTime to see exact mouse and keyboard actions, identifying repetitive pain points, and customizing macros, keyboard mappings, and EZ Speaker usage to reduce steps and save time. Rachel shares how she gamified learning shortcuts to avoid the mouse, explains why many reporters were never taught CaseCATalyst capabilities, and suggests a small set of high-impact shortcuts can be “life changing,” while fixes must be tailored to each workflow. Brynn describes pausing her VTM approach to build a more sustainable app focused on dashboards, bookkeeping, billing, deadlines, and transcript tracking. Rachel warns about marketplace confusion and Facebook “scams” involving non–court-reporting-trained “AI/digital” scopists, urging mastery and clear “steno scopist” labeling. Rachel shares where to find her coaching and Scoping International. 00:00 Welcome Back Part Two 00:24 Hands-on Coaching Setup 02:07 Macros And EZ Speakers 02:59 Keyboard-Only Scoping 05:19 Overcoming the Awkwardness 07:12 You're Not Supposed To Know 09:08 Five Shortcuts That Matter 11:42 Building A VTM App 14:19 Scams with "Steno Scopists" 19:42 Where AI Fits In 23:01 How To Find Rachel 23:52 Scoping International And Certs 26:22 Favorite Hidden Text Shortcut 27:49 Wrap Up And Next Episode 28:18 VTM App (New Version) Takeaways:

What happens when the court reporter’s voice is ignored? In this episode, we take an honest, grounded look at one of the most exhausting parts of our profession: protecting the record when multiple people are talking over each other despite repeated attempts to speak up. This conversation is for court reporters who have ended a deposition feeling completely drained… not because of the length or the terminology, but because of the behaviors of the participants... We are not here to bash anyone. We are here to talk about reality. 🎯 What This Episode Covers

This wasn’t the episode I planned. I had a script ready, but I threw it out for something more honest. This is a "sprawled on the floor" conversation about the deep insecurities of working in a system—specifically New York's—that feels designed to keep us in the dark. We’re diving into the "New York Glitch": the jurisdictional ambiguity other states don’t have, and the moments I almost walked away from court reporting entirely. If you’ve ever felt like you're walking on thin ice despite your experience or credentials, this is for you. Companies mentioned:

In this episode, Brynn Seymour and Rachel Harris delve into the evolving landscape of technology in the court reporting industry, addressing the common question: Will court reporters or scopists be replaced by AI? How can scopists and court reporters make sure that they are not falling behind, but keeping up with technology in a safe and secure way? What should court reporters and scopists be focused on now? Listen to this episode to find out! Rachel Harris was featured in the JCR in December of 2025: Life as a professional scopist Gain the freedom to work from anywhere. – Be wherever you want to be. Start your career as a scopist today.

Court reporters hold a pivotal position within the justice system, entrusted with the critical responsibility of maintaining the official records of the courts. In this episode, we delve into the myriad challenges faced by court reporters, including the dual obligation of running their own businesses, a task for which many are not adequately prepared. I, Bryn Seymour, a court reporter and life coach, facilitate a dialogue exploring the unique journey of stenographers, alongside the distinguished Judge Janet Malone. We reflect on the profound impacts of our roles in the courtroom and the importance of empathy and understanding within legal proceedings. The conversation emphasizes the necessity of clarity and accuracy in the record, as well as the collaborative spirit essential among all courtroom participants. This podcast episode delves into the pivotal role of court reporters within the justice system, emphasizing their responsibility for maintaining the official records of legal proceedings. Bryn Seymour, an experienced court reporter and life coach, leads the discussion, inviting Judge Janet Malone to share her insights. The conversation touches upon the challenges faced by court reporters, including the necessity for self-advocacy in ensuring accuracy during complex legal discussions. The episode highlights the importance of collaboration between judges and court reporters, as both parties work together to ensure a fair and precise record, underscoring the notion that effective communication is essential in the courtroom. Furthermore, Judge Malone reflects on her career, noting the evolution of her professional journey and the significance of empathy in the judicial process, ultimately presenting court reporting as a crucial yet often under-appreciated profession in the legal landscape. Links referenced in this episode: uticauniversity.com

Brynn Reynolds Seymour and Rachel Harris follow the fault lines: a near-split vote, frustrated translation rates, and tools that promise more than they deliver. What happens when mask tech, software shifts, and courtroom culture collide—and the record still has to be right? Step inside the tension to hear where standards hold, where they bend, and what seasoned reporters are watching next. Guest Bio Rachel Harris is a court-reporting consultant to the Lagos judiciary, where she’s building standards, training judges on effective reporter utilization, and leading projects to retrain voice writers to stenography. A longtime scoping coach, she bridges real courtroom workflows with practical training, helping reporters translate tech into clean, certifiable records. ⭐ Leave Us a Review! Enjoyed the episode? Drop a 5-star rating or a quick line about your takeaway—those signals help more reporters and attorneys find the show. Thanks for listening and for supporting the podcast.

The salient point of this podcast episode revolves around the complexities and frustrations associated with the notary requirements for court reporters, particularly in the context of the differing regulations across jurisdictions. I delve into my personal experience of preparing for the notary test, which I undertook under challenging circumstances, and reflect on the relevance of the material to my profession. The episode serves as a platform for exploring the broader implications of certification and compliance in our field, while also questioning the necessity of certain regulations that may not correlate with our day-to-day responsibilities as court reporters. I invite listeners to engage in this discourse, fostering a community of shared insights and experiences. Ultimately, we aim to illuminate the pathways toward professional development and clarity within the court reporting profession. Takeaways:

Happy New Year! WELCOME 2026!

Today we're wrapping up the mini episode series with Tips #8–10 on how attorneys can work best with their court reporters. This is important because they don't seem to teach it much in law school, so hearing directly from a court reporter all the things we want attorneys to know, can be so helpful. Attorneys, this is for you. Listening to this series will put you one step ahead of all of your colleagues. Feel free to email brynn@courtreporterpodcast.com! ⭐ Leave Us a Review! If this series helped you lead the room and protect the record, please leave a 5-star rating or a short review—even a quick star rating helps more reporters and attorneys find the show.

When the record is on the line, every micro-decision matters. If you wait until the end to request a rough or let crosstalk slide “just this once,” you invite stress, corrections, and a messy review. In this episode, you’ll learn simple moves that keep you impartial, in control, and confident from gavel to goodbye. Episode Summary Continuing our series for attorneys, we dig into four habits that instantly make proceedings smoother: clearly stating transcript orders up front, spelling technical terms on the record, backing the reporter when they pause to protect accuracy, and enforcing deposition rules so one clear voice speaks at a time. You’ll hear why these practices aren’t about favoritism—they’re about fairness. When you set expectations early and support resets, you safeguard neutrality, reduce post-hearing cleanup, and get a cleaner, faster transcript. Do this well, and you’ll feel less pressure, avoid costly fixes, and maintain a stronger presence in the room. Host Insights Host Ronald Seymour underscores that court reporters are impartial professionals—and that professionalism runs smoother when you respect the workflow. From managing expedites to coordinating teams, he shares practical context for why clarity and courtesy pay dividends. Key Takeaways ⭐ Leave Us a Review! If this helped you protect the record, please leave a 5-star rating or short review—even a star rating helps more reporters and attorneys find the show.

When the record is on the line, even small decisions can make or break accuracy. What you say, when you speak up, and how you confirm the record all affect the clarity of the transcript and the pace of the proceeding. This episode shares the etiquette every attorney needs to know—so you can work with your reporter, not against them, and ensure the record stays clean. In Part 1 of this mini series, host Brynn Reynold Seymour explains why the record is the primary product of any proceeding—and why assumptions can undermine it. This episode addresses the most common mistakes attorneys make, probably unknowingly, when trying to make the record in depositions. Host Insights Brynn shares how simple attorney habits—clear cues, verbalizing the record, and proactive introductions—make proceedings smoother for everyone and protect the record in high-stakes settings. Resources & Mentions brynn@courtreporterpodcast.comCourt Reporter CEO Mindset Program ⭐ Leave Us a Review! If this episode brought you value, please leave a 5-star rating and quick review. Your support helps more attorneys and reporters discover the tools and insights they need to succeed. And don’t forget to subscribe—Parts 2 and 3 are coming soon.

When the record is on the line, every micro-decision matters. What to say, when to speak up, how to follow up, how to respond—these split-second choices can easily lead to overwhelm and burnout if we don’t prepare in advance. That’s why we gathered a roundtable of seasoned professionals to talk it through—so you can step into every proceeding with the confidence and etiquette of a true guardian of the record. In this episode, we explore the core of court reporting professionalism: neutrality, boundaries, and room control. Special guest Vicki Poole, CSR, RPR, RMR, shares field-tested strategies for staying impartial, from setting the tone the moment you arrive to avoiding even the appearance of bias. Voices in This Episode Sponsored by Steno Do you want to work with an agency that works for you? Steno isn’t just another agency; they’re redefining the future of litigation support with modern technology and a concierge approach that makes your job easier. Court reporters choose Steno for fast payment, intuitive tools, and real-time tech support on every assignment. It’s no wonder they’re one of the fastest-growing firms in the country. Don’t just take our word for it; sign up now and experience it for yourself! ⭐ Leave Us a Review! If this episode brought you value, take a moment to leave a 5-star rating and a quick review. Your support helps more court reporters discover the community, tools, and encouragement they need to succeed. Even a simple star rating makes a big difference!