What does it mean to move with “Royal Intentions”? It’s more than just a title or a posture; it’s a commitment to excellence, a refusal to settle for mediocrity, and a deep-seated respect for the legacy that paved the way for our present.
In this episode of Lawyerish, Brandon J. Wallace, Esq. sits down with two powerhouses, litigator AJ Amissah, Esq. and marketing maven Jeanette Hort-Smith, to discuss the grit required to win in the courtroom, the boardroom, and the internal battle for mental wellness.
Duly Noted: The Case for Term Limits
Before diving into the guest segments, Brandon reflects on the historic confirmation of Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson. While a moment of immense pride, the hearings highlighted a systemic flaw: the aging, static nature of the U.S. Senate.
Brandon makes a compelling argument for term limits. He points out that the “war chests” and name recognition of decades-long incumbents make it nearly impossible for new, diverse voices to enter the fray. If we want a government that reflects the people, we need a system that encourages fresh blood and prevents career politicians from holding onto power for half a century.
The Litigator’s Edge: AJ Amissah on Winning and Learning
AJ Amissah didn’t start with a silver spoon; he started by sleeping in his car during his first year at an HBCU because he couldn’t afford on-campus housing. That survival instinct transitioned seamlessly into the courtroom.
1. Know the Law, Not Just the Story
AJ shares a pivotal “low point” from 2018. He thought he had delivered a “sermon” of a closing statement, complete with a metaphorical choir. Yet, the judge found his client guilty. The lesson? He knew the facts, but he failed to argue the statutory elements of the law. Today, AJ builds his “Theory of the Case” around the law first and the narrative second.
2. The Power of Persistence
He recounts a recent “loser” case involving destruction of property. Despite a video that looked damning, AJ stayed in the game. By exposing that the star witness had been using drugs with the defendant immediately after the incident, AJ destroyed the witness’s credibility.
The Lesson: “It’s not where you start, it’s where you finish.”
3. Community as a Royal Intention
AJ’s commitment isn’t just billable hours. Through the Brown Bag Project DMV, he provides essential hygiene products to those experiencing homelessness. For AJ, being a lawyer is a platform for service, not just a paycheck.
The Art of the “No”: Jeanette Hort-Smith on Strategic Branding
Jeanette Hort-Smith, CEO of Dash Coordinating and Marketing, understands that branding is the intersection of psychology and storytelling.
Protecting the Brand
Jeanette’s “Royal Intention” manifests as the courage to fire clients. She shares two “low points” where she had to terminate agreements with clients who didn’t value her team or tried to negotiate invoices after the work was done.
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Self-Worth: “We pick our clients like they pick us.”
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Team Advocacy: As a CEO, her primary job is to protect her team from disrespect and lack of accountability.
The Ancestral Mandate
Jeanette traces her drive back to her grandfather, who had to ask a white man to secure a loan for him because Black men couldn’t get them at the time. He eventually bought enough real estate to leave each of his 12 children a home. With that bloodline, Jeanette views her success not as an option, but as a mandate to honor those who sacrificed for her to attend Howard University.
Wellness Check: The Physical Toll of Anxiety
Brandon gets radically transparent about his own journey with anxiety. He warns that if you don’t deal with your wellness, “wellness will deal with you.”
Stress isn’t just in your head; it’s in your body. Brandon describes how unresolved trauma and professional pressure manifested as physical ailments, headaches, stomach issues, and chronic pain. He encourages listeners to seek therapy and prioritize self-care, reminding us that we deserve to live “happy, prosperous, and well.”
Motivational Moment: Honoring the Queens
The episode concludes with a powerful tribute to Black women. Brandon shares a harrowing story of how three young Black women in his apartment building saved his life by identifying a carbon monoxide leak that he had initially dismissed.
“Black Girl Magic saved my life,” he says, urging Black women everywhere to remember that they belong in every room they enter.
Final Charge: Move with intention. Honor your roots. Protect your peace.
Watch the full episode for more: Royal Intentions | Lawyerish
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