
The Bar Exam Drills Podcast
Podcasts
A weekly podcast where we answer bar exam related questions and also comment on legal implications of current events.Any questions may be directed to podcast@barexamdrills.com.
Location:
United States
Description:
A weekly podcast where we answer bar exam related questions and also comment on legal implications of current events.Any questions may be directed to podcast@barexamdrills.com.
Twitter:
@baressay
Language:
English
Contact:
7146993028
Episodes
Bar Study Motivation Podcast - Ep 024 - Allen Williams II
5/14/2025
In this inspiring episode, Allen Williams II shares his journey to passing the California Bar Exam after previous attempts. A USC undergrad with master's degrees in public diplomacy and gerontology, Allen graduated from the University of San Francisco School of Law in 2022 while balancing multiple leadership roles and community commitments.
Allen candidly discusses the challenges he faced during bar preparation while working full-time in litigation. He describes the emotional rollercoaster of studying after previous disappointments, the technical difficulties during the exam itself, and the nerve-wracking wait for results. Despite moments of doubt, Allen maintained a growth mindset and refused to quit, stating "I don't care how many times I have to sit for this exam. We are going to pass."
His success strategy combined several key elements: focusing intensely on MBE practice through Bar Exam Drills, working with a private tutor to address specific knowledge gaps, creating flashcards for rule memorization, and maintaining honest self-assessment about weak areas. Allen emphasizes the importance of drilling questions repeatedly, especially those previously answered incorrectly, to build cumulative knowledge.
Throughout his preparation, Allen prioritized mental health by meeting weekly with a therapist and incorporating breaks into his rigorous schedule. He surrounded himself with supportive people who understood the gravity of the exam and created space for his emotions during the difficult process.
For future bar candidates, Allen offers practical advice: practice closed-book essays to test actual knowledge, use licensed NCBE questions, focus on weak areas rather than avoiding them, model answers after official examples, and don't neglect the performance test. He emphasizes that most failed candidates are closer to passing than they realize and just need to identify and fix specific weaknesses.
Allen's story is one of perseverance, strategic preparation, and maintaining perspective through an extraordinarily challenging process. Now successfully admitted to the California Bar, he remains committed to helping others navigate their own bar exam journeys.
Duration:00:23:36
Bar Study Motivation Podcast - Ep 023 - Raquel Penalver Bartolome
4/30/2025
Are you preparing for the bar exam and searching for real, actionable motivation? In this episode of the Bar Study Motivation Podcast, we sit down with Raquel Penalver Bartolome, a recent bar exam passer and bankruptcy attorney-to discuss the highs, lows, and lessons learned on her journey to bar exam success.
Raquel opens up about her emotional reaction to getting her results, the mental resilience required after failing the first time, and the importance of creating a personalized study plan. She shares how listening to her own needs, rather than blindly following generic bar prep schedules, made all the difference. Raquel also talks about the power of support from family and friends, managing anxiety during the waiting period, and the critical role of discipline-not just in studying, but in daily routines.
In this episode, you’ll hear Raquel’s honest account of failing and coming back stronger, how she used targeted review and repetition to master multiple choice questions, the importance of mental preparation and self-awareness, tips for organizing essays to maximize points, and why support networks and intentionality matter more than following a rigid program. She also offers advice for anyone gearing up for the next bar exam: trust yourself, review your mistakes, and keep moving forward.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, discouraged, or just want practical advice from someone who’s been there, this conversation is for you. Raquel’s story proves that passing the bar is as much about mindset and strategy as it is about hard work.
Every step forward counts. Whether you’re studying for your first attempt or coming back after a setback, you’re not alone on this journey.
Like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories and practical bar study strategies. Have questions for Raquel or want to connect? Drop them in the comments or reach out for more info.
Ready to get motivated? Hit play and let Raquel’s journey inspire your own bar exam success!
Duration:00:23:44
Bar Study Motivation Podcast - Ep 022 - Jeanna Ayres
4/23/2025
Welcome to Episode 22 of the Bar Study Motivation Podcast, where we feature an uplifting story of determination and triumph. In this episode, we sit down with Jeanna Ayres, a newly licensed attorney who shares her honest and inspiring journey through law school, multiple bar exam attempts, and the ultimate victory of passing the Texas bar.
Jeanna’s story is one of resilience and passion. As a Texas A&M University graduate with a strong interest in family law, she was deeply involved in advocacy and research throughout her legal education. She opens up about the emotional rollercoaster of taking the bar exam four times, the challenges of managing burnout and motivation, and the crucial role her support system—family, friends, and her significant other—played in her success.
During our conversation, Jeanna reveals the evolution of her study strategies, discussing what didn’t work and what finally helped her succeed. She shares her experiences with different bar prep programs, including Bar Exam Drills, flashcards, one-sheets, and working with a tutor. Her insights highlight the importance of repetition, targeted practice, and adapting your study approach to suit your personal learning style.
We also explore the mental and emotional challenges of waiting for results, dealing with setbacks, and overcoming self-doubt. Jeanna talks candidly about coping with disappointment, navigating family expectations, and finding strength through faith and determination. Her journey is a powerful reminder that perseverance pays off, leading her not only to pass the bar but also to secure her dream job through networking and never losing sight of her goals.
Jeanna’s advice for future bar takers is both practical and heartfelt: give it your all the first time, don’t let fear of imperfection stop you from taking the exam, and most importantly, believe in yourself. She encourages listeners to rest during the waiting period, pick up hobbies, and seek support whenever needed.
If you’re preparing for the bar or facing setbacks, Jeanna’s story will motivate you to keep going, adapt your approach, and remember that your journey is uniquely your own. Jeanna is also open to connecting with anyone who needs advice or encouragement, so don’t hesitate to reach out.
Be sure to listen through to the end for a bonus discussion about why Bar Exam Drills is such an effective bar prep tool, along with more candid insights to help you on your path to becoming an attorney.
Subscribe for more real stories from those who have been in your shoes, and let’s keep supporting each other on the journey to law licensure.
Duration:00:30:31
Bar Exam Drills Podcast - Ep 021 - Mindfulness in Bar Exam Preparation with Paige N. Fox
2/12/2025
From Law School Struggles to Wellness Warrior: A Legal Professional's Journey to Balance
Join us for an eye-opening conversation with a seasoned attorney who transforms her personal struggles into powerful lessons for the legal community. After battling through law school challenges, substance dependency, and professional burnout, she discovered a revolutionary approach to maintaining excellence in law while preserving mental and physical wellbeing.
In this powerful episode, our guest shares shocking statistics about mental health in legal education and her personal journey through academic pressure and substance use. She reveals how traditional legal education sets up unhealthy patterns and offers a revolutionary approach to wellness in legal practice.
Learn game-changing wellness tools including physical fitness solutions for busy professionals, mindfulness and meditation techniques, sound therapy and frequency healing, and evidence-based nutrition strategies. Our guest shares exclusive insights from her anti-bullying task force leadership and provides practical implementation strategies backed by scientific research.
Whether you're a law student, practicing attorney, or legal professional, this conversation will revolutionize your approach to work-life integration. Don't miss these transformational insights that challenge the status quo while offering concrete solutions for sustainable success in the legal profession.
#LegalWellness #LawyerLife #MentalHealth #WorkLifeBalance #LawSchool #ProfessionalDevelopment
Duration:00:55:28
Bar Study Motivation Podcast - Ep 021 - Crystal Armstrong
10/31/2024
From Evaluating Students to Practicing Law: One Woman's Remarkable Career Shift
Join us for a captivating interview with Crystal Armstrong, a former school psychologist who made the leap to law school and landed a coveted big law position. Crystal shares her inspiring story of transitioning from psychology to law, fueled by her experiences working on special education cases as a school psychologist in Tennessee.
Crystal opens up about the challenges she faced in her journey, including failing the bar exam twice before finally passing on her third attempt in Tennessee. She discusses the mental and emotional toll of the experience, from losing her big law job to dealing with personal health issues and family tragedies, all while preparing for the biggest test of her life.
Through it all, Crystal's determination and drive never wavered. She shares valuable insights into her winning study strategies, from focusing on her weakest areas to creating a customized study plan that played to her unique strengths. Crystal's story is a testament to the power of perseverance, self-awareness, and adaptability in the face of adversity.
Whether you're a law student, a career changer, or anyone pursuing a challenging goal, Crystal's journey will inspire you to keep pushing forward no matter the obstacles. Tune in to learn from her experiences and discover how you too can achieve your dreams with the right mindset and approach.
Duration:00:45:44
Bar Study Motivation Podcast - Ep 020 - Chandler M. Sandusky
10/28/2024
Rising Above Challenges: A Tale of Bar Exam Victory
In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Chandler Morgan Sandusky, a recent bar exam passer, to discuss his journey through law school and multiple attempts at the bar exam. Chandler shares his experiences, from the initial setbacks to his ultimate triumph, offering valuable insights for aspiring lawyers and repeat test-takers.
Key highlights include:- Chandler's path through law school and his evolving interest in criminal law
- The emotional rollercoaster of taking the bar exam multiple times
- Strategies and resources that ultimately led to his success
- The importance of a supportive network during the challenging preparation period
- Practical advice for future bar exam takers, including tips on tackling the MBE and essays
Chandler's story is not just about passing an exam; it's about perseverance, self-discovery, and the power of determination. Whether you're a law student, a repeat bar exam taker, or simply interested in the legal profession, this episode offers a candid look at the challenges and rewards of pursuing a legal career.
Join us for an honest, engaging conversation that will motivate and inspire anyone facing their own professional hurdles. Chandler's journey reminds us that with the right mindset and approach, even the most daunting obstacles can be overcome.
Duration:00:26:11
Bar Exam Drills Podcast - Ep 020 - Michigan First Time Passer Micah Phillips
10/25/2024
Micah's Inspiring Michigan Bar Exam Success Story | How She Passed on Her First Try
In this motivating interview, recent law school graduate Micah shares her journey of passing the challenging Michigan bar exam on her very first attempt. Micah opens up about:
- Her decision to switch bar prep programs after initially struggling with passive video lectures
- How the interactive practice and personalized feedback in the Bar Exam Drills program helped her stay engaged and on track
- The power of having an accountability partner and emotional support system during the intense study period
- Her advice for future bar exam takers, including trusting your gut if a program isn't working for you
Despite the immense pressure and having to move apartments during bar prep, Micah's strong work ethic, positive mindset, and strategic study approach enabled her to walk into the exam feeling confident and well-prepared. She discusses how tactics like using clear headings in essays and taking frequent breaks to recharge made a big difference.
Whether you're a first-time or repeat bar taker, Micah's inspirational story highlights the importance of finding a prep method that plays to your strengths, putting in consistent practice, and believing in yourself. Her incredible success shows what's possible with hard work and determination.
Don't miss this uplifting conversation between Micah and her bar prep coach Sam as they reflect on the keys to her impressive accomplishment and exciting next steps in her legal career. Like Micah says, "You can do anything for 12 weeks!"
Duration:00:26:30
Bar Study Motivation Podcast - Ep 019 - Kevin in Hawaii
10/2/2024
In this inspiring episode, Kevin shares his journey of passing the Hawaii bar exam on his 4th attempt. Originally from Chicago, Kevin moved to Hawaii after law school to start his legal career. He opens up about the challenges of repeated bar exam failures, missing the passing score by just a few points each time.
Kevin discusses how he stayed motivated despite setbacks and the specific study strategies that ultimately led to success, such as:
- Waking up early to complete practice essays before work
- Focusing on issue spotting and using header formatting to maximize points
- Drilling MBE questions to master nuanced fact patterns
- Treating the MPT like a real work assignment to deliver a polished final memo
Kevin also shares how he leaned on support from mentors, friends and family while blocking out negativity. His inspirational message is to never give up on your goals, be open to changing your study approach, and embrace the sacrifices needed to succeed.
Whether you're a repeat taker or studying for the first time, you'll learn valuable insights from Kevin's resilient path to passing the Hawaii bar exam.
Duration:00:36:57
Bar Exam Drills Podcast - Ep 017 - July 2024 MEE UBE Bar Exam Essay Predictions
6/13/2024
Hey there! In this video, I explore potential scenarios for the July 2024 MEE UBE Bar Exam Essays. By analyzing patterns and common themes from the past 12 years, I provide insights into what's been tested since 2012. Following my analysis, my friend Walter Bernard, who has passed the bar in four different jurisdictions, shares his detailed thoughts on each predicted subject.
If you're interested in more videos that break down each predicted law subject or want to hear Walter Bernard's expert opinions on these predictions, leave a comment or email us at BEDP@barexamdrills.com.
Duration:00:22:16
Bar Exam Drills Podcast - Ep 018 - July 2024 Georgia Bar Exam Essay Predictions
6/13/2024
Hey there! In this video, I delve into potential scenarios for the July 2024 Georgia Bar Exam Essays. By examining trends and recurring themes from the past 12 years, I offer insights into what's been tested since 2012. After my analysis, my friend Walter Bernard, who has passed the bar in four different jurisdictions, provides his expert thoughts on each predicted subject.
If you're interested in more videos breaking down each predicted law subject or hearing Walter Bernard's expert opinions on these predictions, leave a comment or email us at BEDP@barexamdrills.com.
Duration:00:12:39
Bar Exam Drills Podcast - Ep 019 - July 2024 Florida Bar Exam Essay Predictions
6/13/2024
Hey there! In this video, I dive into potential scenarios for the July 2024 Florida Bar Exam Essays. By analyzing trends and recurring themes from the past 12 years, I offer insights into what's been tested since 2012. Following my analysis, my friend Walter Bernard, who has passed the bar in four different jurisdictions, shares his expert thoughts on each predicted subject.
If you’re interested in more videos breaking down each predicted law subject or want to hear Walter Bernard’s expert opinions on these predictions, drop a comment or email us at BEDP@barexamdrills.com.
Duration:00:10:15
Bar Exam Drills Podcast - Ep 016 - July 2024 California Bar Exam Essay Predictions
6/13/2024
Hey there! I first dive into the potential scenarios for the July 2024 California Bar Exam Essays in this video. I’m looking back at what's been tested since 2012 and what's been a common theme over the last 12 years. After this my friend Walter Bernard who has sat and passed in 4 different jurisdictions advises his detailed thoughts on each subject I’ve predicted.
If you're keen on more videos breaking down each predicted law subject or having my friend Walter Bernard from the previous predictions videos opine on the subjects and predictions, drop a comment or shoot an email to BEDP@barexamdrills.com.
Duration:00:18:11
Bar Exam Drills Podcast - Ep 016 - July 2024 California Bar Exam Essay Predictions
5/28/2024
Hey there! I dive into the potential scenarios for the July 2024 California Bar Exam Essays in this video. We're looking back at what's been tested since 2012 and what's been a common theme over the last 11 years.
If you're keen on more videos breaking down each predicted law subject or having my friend Walter Bernard from the previous predictions videos opine on the subjects and predictions, drop a comment or shoot an email to BEDP@barexamdrills.com.
Duration:00:06:24
Bar Exam Drills Podcast - Ep 017 - July 2024 MEE UBE Bar Exam Essay Predictions
5/28/2024
Hey there! I dive into the potential scenarios for the July 2024 MEE UBE Bar Exam Essays in this video. We're looking back at what's been tested since 2012 and what's been a common theme over the last 11 years.
If you're keen on more videos breaking down each predicted law subject or having my friend Walter Bernard from the previous predictions videos opine on the subjects and predictions, drop a comment or shoot an email to BEDP@barexamdrills.com.
Duration:00:05:24
Bar Exam Drills Podcast - Ep 018 - July 2024 Georgia Bar Exam Essay Predictions
5/28/2024
Hey there! I dive into the potential scenarios for the July 2024 Georgia Bar Exam Essays in this video. We're looking back at what's been tested since 2012 and what's been a common theme over the last 11 years.
If you're keen on more videos breaking down each predicted law subject or having my friend Walter Bernard from the previous predictions videos opine on the subjects and predictions, drop a comment or shoot an email to BEDP@barexamdrills.com.
Duration:00:04:26
Bar Exam Drills Podcast - Ep 019 - July 2024 Florida Bar Exam Essay Predictions
5/28/2024
Hey there! I dive into the potential scenarios for the July 2024 July Bar Exam Essays in this video. We're looking back at what's been tested since 2012 and what's been a common theme over the last 11 years.
If you're keen on more videos breaking down each predicted law subject or having my friend Walter Bernard from the previous predictions videos opine on the subjects and predictions, drop a comment or shoot an email to BEDP@barexamdrills.com.
Duration:00:05:46
Bar Exam Drills Podcast - Ep 015 - Crossing the Bar: Nada Higuera’s Multi-State Bar Exam Conquest
4/23/2024
Welcome to the fifteenth episode of the Bar Exam Drills Podcast! Join us as we chat with Nada Higuera about her journey conquering the Multi-State Bar Exam.
Nada shares her experience of moving from California to Oklahoma after a decade of practicing law, diving into the emotional rollercoaster of tackling the exam again after a decade of professional experience.
We explore the unique challenges Nada faces studying for the exam with two kids and being out of law school for so long.
Nada provides insights for both first-time takers and retakers, shedding light on the value of resources like Bar Exam Drills, particularly highlighting San's commitment to student success.
Wrapping up, Nada expresses her fondness for Oklahoma and its welcoming community.
Have questions or thoughts? Reach out to us at BEDP@barexamdrills.com.
Wishing you the best on your upcoming Bar Exam!
Duration:00:27:03
Bar Study Motivation Podcast - Ep 018 - Crystal Post
4/22/2024
Welcome to Episode 18 of our transformative podcast series, where we celebrate the journeys of those who have triumphed over the bar exam. Today, we feature Crystal Post, who not only passed the bar in two states but also overcame multiple challenges along the way. From her philosophical studies to the practical struggles of bar preparation, Crystal's story is a testament to persistence and dedication. Listen as we also discuss unique aspects of the bar exam, like score transferring between states, and delve into effective strategies for tackling MBEs and essays with the Bar Exam Drills methodology. This episode is filled with practical advice, heartfelt stories, and strategies to inspire anyone on the path to law licensure. For more insights and resources, contact us at BSMP@barexamdrills.com. Tune in for a dose of inspiration and expert guidance on navigating the bar exam landscape.
Duration:00:30:26
Bar Exam Drills Podcast - Ep 014 - February 2024 Georgia Bar Exam Essay Predictions
12/3/2023
Hey there! Walter Bernard and I dive into the potential scenarios for the February 2024 Georgia Bar Exam Essays in this video. We're looking back at what's been tested since 2019 and what's been a common theme over the last 4 years.
If you're keen on more videos breaking down each predicted law subject, drop a comment or shoot an email to BEDP@barexamdrills.com.
Sending you the best vibes for the February 2024 Georgia Bar Exam!
Duration:00:05:48
Bar Exam Drills Podcast - Ep 014 - February 2024 Georgia Bar Exam Essay Predictions
12/2/2023
Hey there! Walter Bernard and I dive into the potential scenarios for the February 2024 Georgia Bar Exam Essays in this video. We're looking back at what's been tested since 2019 and what's been a common theme over the last 4 years.
If you're keen on more videos breaking down each predicted law subject, drop a comment or shoot an email to BEDP@barexamdrills.com.
Sending you the best vibes for the February 2024 Georgia Bar Exam
Duration:00:06:52