The JudgeMental Podcast
By: Christine Miller, Hugh Barrow
Language: en
Categories: News, Politics, Society, Culture, Government
The JudgeMental Podcast features two attorneys, Hugh and Christine, who bring over three decades of combined litigation experience to the mic. Now venturing into a bold new initiative—"Judge-y", a website and soon-to-be app—they aim to give lawyers and litigants a platform to evaluate judges and promote accountability within the judiciary.
Episodes
EP 65 Petulant Children
Jan 09, 2026EPISODE 65: PETULANT CHILDREN
In this episode, Christine dives deep into the judicial landscape of Bullitt County, Kentucky, examining the stark differences between the county's two family court divisions and sharing firsthand experiences practicing in front of Judges Elise Spainhour and Monica Meredith.
KEY TOPICS DISCUSSED:
Bullitt County Family Court Structure
The evolution from a commissioner system to two family court divisions
How landing in different divisions dramatically affects case outcomes
The unique challenges of practicing in smaller counties versus Louisville
Judge Elise Spainhour
...
Duration: 00:34:05EP 64 About Time
Jan 07, 2026JudgeMental Podcast – Episode 64: About Time
In this episode, Hugh and Christine dive deep into the latest developments in judicial accountability, focusing on the ongoing saga surrounding Judge Ogden. They discuss the challenges of recusal motions, the impact of judicial decisions on families, and the broader implications for the legal system. The conversation covers:
The rare granting of a recusal motion and what it means for litigants
The persistent issues with judicial discretion and lack of accountability
The role of the Friend of the Court and the ripple effects of their recommendations
... Duration: 00:29:11EP 63 Half & Half
Jan 05, 2026JudgeMental Podcast – Episode 63: "Half & Half"
In this episode, Christine and Hugh dive deep into recent decisions from the Kentucky Supreme Court, focusing on judicial recusal, the appearance of bias, and the implications of judges attending partisan political events. The hosts discuss the controversy surrounding Judge Shelley Santry, the role and power of GALs (Guardians ad Litem), and the broader impact of judicial conduct on public trust in the legal system.
Key Topics:
The Kentucky Supreme Court’s handling of recusal motions and the standards for judicial impartiality.
The case involving Judge Shel...
Duration: 00:26:14EP 62 Fresh Meat
Jan 02, 2026JudgeMental Podcast – Episode 62: Fresh Meat
In this episode, Christine and Hugh dive into a recent TikTok by Louisville attorney Allison Russell, who proposes adding another division to the Louisville Family Court as a solution to ongoing issues. The hosts discuss the merits and drawbacks of this idea, reflect on the realities of family court in Louisville, and share their perspectives on the challenges facing the legal system. They also address the importance of open dialogue, the complexities of judicial appointments, and the need for accountability and reform.
Key Topics:
Allison Ru...
Duration: 00:29:28EP 61 Talking Point Task Force
Dec 31, 2025JudgeMental Podcast – Episode 61: Talking Point Task Force
In this episode, Hugh and Christine dive into the recent announcement of the Judicial Threat Assessment Center by the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office. They discuss the motivations behind the new task force, question whether there is a real increase in threats to judges, and explore the broader implications for judicial accountability and free speech.
Key Topics:
The Judicial Threat Assessment Center: What is it, and is it necessary? The hosts analyze the press coverage and the actual scope of the task force.
Threats vs. Cr...
Duration: 00:24:33EP 60 Cry for Help
Dec 29, 2025JudgeMental Podcast – Episode 60: Cry For Help
In this episode, Christine and Hugh return from a holiday break to dive into the latest developments and ongoing challenges in family court. They discuss a powerful social media post from a young person affected by the system, the persistent lack of accountability among judges, and the complex role of GALs (Guardians ad Litem) and FOCs (Friend of the Court). The hosts debate whether family court reform could become a major political issue, reflect on the isolation and internal politics of the judiciary, and share personal experiences from their legal practices.
... Duration: 00:29:37EP 59 Flippant
Dec 22, 2025JudgeMental Podcast – Episode 59: Flippant
In this episode, Christine and Hugh dive deep into the challenging and often heartbreaking realities of de facto custodianship in Kentucky family courts. They discuss a current case in Judge Lori Goodwin’s court, exploring what it means to be a de facto custodian, the rights and limitations that come with that status, and the inconsistencies in how courts handle these sensitive cases.
Key topics include:
The legal definition and implications of being a de facto custodian
The difference between de facto custodians, temporary custodians, and foster pare...
Duration: 00:24:49EP 58 Temporary Hell
Dec 19, 2025JudgeMental Podcast – Episode 58: “Temporary Hell”
In this episode, Hugh and Christine dive deep into the realities of “temporary order land” in family court. They discuss how temporary orders can become long-term fixtures, the challenges litigants and attorneys face, and the strategic use (and abuse) of temporary orders by judges. The conversation covers the roles of FOCs (Friend of the Court), GALs (Guardian ad Litem), and the sometimes blurry lines of authority and advocacy in Kentucky’s family law system.
Key topics include:
Why “temporary” orders often last for years
The impact of delays and st...
Duration: 00:23:35EP 57 Be Nice
Dec 17, 2025JudgeMental Podcast – Episode 57 Be Nice
In this episode, Christine and Hugh dive into the evolving landscape of courtroom transparency, focusing on the challenges attorneys and the public face in accessing complete court records and videos. They discuss the implications of policy changes that limit access to full motion hour recordings, the importance of transparency in the justice system, and how these changes impact both legal professionals and the people they serve.
Key topics include:
The shift in court policy regarding access to full motion hour videos and its effects on case preparation and ap...
Duration: 00:23:29EP 56 Sh%*t Happens
Dec 15, 2025JudgeMental Podcast – Episode 56: S%*t Happens
In this episode, Christine and Hugh dive deep into a recent and troubling family court case out of Kentucky. They break down the procedural missteps, discuss the importance of affidavits in contempt and custody motions, and reflect on the broader implications for pro se litigants and the legal community. The conversation covers:
The critical role of proper pleadings and affidavits in family court
How procedural shortcuts can have real, damaging consequences
The unique personalities and approaches of Kentucky family court judges
The challenges of...
Duration: 00:31:42EP 55 Emergency Ward
Dec 12, 2025JudgeMental Podcast – Episode 55 Emergency Ward
In this episode, Christine and Hugh dive deep into a troubling family court case out of Louisville, Kentucky, where a pro se mother was sentenced to 180 days in jail—without an attorney present and possibly while hospitalized. The hosts break down the constitutional issues at play, including the right to counsel, due process, and the requirements for criminal contempt proceedings. They discuss the timeline of events, the questionable pleadings, and the broader implications for family law and judicial accountability.
Key Topics Covered:
The difference between civil and criminal cont...
Duration: 00:34:15EP 54 SYBAM
Dec 10, 2025JudgeMental Podcast – Episode 54: S-Y-B-A-M (Shut Your B*#ch Ass Mouth?)
In this episode, hosts Hugh and Christine dive deep into the controversial world of gag orders in family court. Drawing from their own legal experience, they discuss the difference between legitimate restraining orders and blanket gag orders, the constitutional balance between a fair trial and free speech, and the real-world impact of judicial decisions on litigants’ voices.
Key topics include:
The rarity (and rationale) of gag orders in criminal vs. family court
When, if ever, a gag order might be appropriate in f...
Duration: 00:33:34EP 53 Feed the Machine
Dec 08, 2025JudgeMental Podcast – Episode 53: Feed the Machine
In this episode, Hugh and Christine tackle the complexities and controversies of family court, focusing on recent cases that highlight judicial overreach, attorney-client conflicts, and the challenges faced by children and parents in the system.
Episode Highlights:
The Christine Ward Case: A deep dive into Judge Ward’s decision to restrict what a GAL (Guardian ad Litem) can share with their minor client, raising questions about attorney-client privilege and judicial micromanagement.
Evergreen Retainers & GAL Fees: Discussion of the unusual $5,000 retainer for a GAL and the impl...
Duration: 00:36:16EP 52 In a Mood
Dec 05, 2025Episode Notes: The JudgeMental Podcast – "In a Mood"
Welcome to another candid and unfiltered episode of The JudgeMental Podcast! Hosts Hugh and Christine, the minds behind the revolutionary app and website judge-y, dive deep into the realities of family court, judicial accountability, and the ongoing challenges facing parents, attorneys, and children in the legal system.
In This Episode:
Hugh and Christine react to listener feedback on recent high-profile cases, including the Bridgeman and Oldham County cases.
A raw discussion about the increasing complexity and cost of family court, especially in cases in...
Duration: 00:33:12EP 51 Due Process Dumpster Fire
Dec 03, 2025Episode 51: Due Process Dumpster Fire
The JudgeMental Podcast
In this explosive episode of The JudgeMental Podcast, Christine and Hugh dive deep into the latest developments in a high-profile billionaire divorce case, focusing on a controversial 60-page Friend of the Court (FOC) report. The hosts break down the troubling due process issues, the role of cross-examination, and the broader problems with FOC reports in family court.
Key Topics:
The alarming power and influence of FOC reports in family court
How credibility and evidence are weighed before anyone steps into the...
Duration: 00:38:24EP 50 Home Cookin'
Dec 01, 2025Episode Notes for The JudgeMental Podcast
Welcome to Episode 50: "Home Cookin’" of The JudgeMental Podcast!
In this highly requested episode, Christine and Hugh take a deep dive into the realities of Oldham County Family Court. Drawing from their own legal experiences and listener questions, they offer candid, judge-y insights into the challenges, quirks, and controversies that define this Kentucky court.
Key topics and highlights include:
Personal stories from Christine and Hugh about practicing in Oldham County Family Court
The unique personalities and reputations of local judges, including Judge Goodwin an...
Duration: 00:31:04EP 49 Seriously Lauren?
Nov 28, 2025Episode 49: Seriously Lauren?
Welcome to another episode of The JudgeMental Podcast! Hosts Hugh and Christine—two passionate lawyers and the minds behind the judge-y app—dive deep into the latest controversy shaking up the Louisville family court system.
This week, they dissect the actions of Judge Lauren Ogden in a high-profile, high-asset custody case. Christine and Hugh break down the legal missteps, the questionable use of a 60-page FOC (Friend of the Court) report, and the broader implications for judicial accountability. They discuss the troubling patterns in family court, including the impact on Black mothers, the...
Duration: 00:33:36EP 48 Happier Holidays
Nov 26, 2025Episode 48: Happier Holiday — The JudgeMental Podcast
In this special holiday episode of The JudgeMental Podcast, hosts Hugh and Christine—two seasoned lawyers and the minds behind the judge-y app—dive into the emotional rollercoaster that is the holiday season for families navigating divorce, custody battles, and family court.
They share personal and client stories about the unique challenges that arise during Thanksgiving and Christmas, from last-minute court orders to the stress of co-parenting and family dynamics. Hugh and Christine offer candid advice on how to protect your peace, put your children first, and avoid common pitfal...
Duration: 00:20:50EP 47 Making Faces
Nov 24, 2025Episode 47: Making Faces
Welcome to another episode of The JudgeMental Podcast with your hosts, Hugh and Christine—the minds behind judge-y, the revolutionary app and website empowering you to judge the judges and bring transparency to the courtroom.
In this episode, Hugh and Christine dive deep into the challenges faced by pro se litigants—individuals representing themselves in court without an attorney. They break down the often confusing and inconsistent courtroom rules that can trip up even seasoned lawyers, let alone those navigating the system on their own. The hosts share candid stories from their own...
Duration: 00:25:43EP 46 Happy F'ing Friday
Nov 21, 2025The JudgeMental Podcast – Episode 46: Happy F'ing Friday
Welcome to Episode 46 of The JudgeMental Podcast! Hosts Hugh and Christine, the minds behind judge-y, bring you another candid and insightful discussion on the realities of family court, judicial accountability, and the ongoing quest for justice.
In This Episode:
Mommy Jail Case Update: Hugh and Christine provide the latest developments in the high-profile "mommy jail" case, including the denial of emergency relief, the ongoing wait for crucial court video footage, and the challenges of obtaining records in Kentucky courts.
Due Process & Judicial Transparency: The ho...
Duration: 00:30:06EP 45 Baby & Bathwater
Nov 19, 2025Episode 45 – The JudgeMental Podcast
In this powerful episode of The JudgeMental Podcast, Christine and Hugh dive deep into the realities and challenges of the family court system. Drawing from their own experiences as attorneys and advocates, they discuss the trauma, frustration, and systemic issues that plague family courts—not just in Louisville, but nationwide and even globally.
Key topics include:
The emotional toll of working within and navigating the family court system
How discretion and lack of transparency can lead to injustice and constitutional violations
The impact of family cour...
Duration: 00:22:44EP 44 Kicking & Screaming
Nov 17, 2025Episode 44 – The JudgeMental Podcast
In this episode of The JudgeMental Podcast, Christine and Hugh dive deep into the question: Should there be a public defender’s office—or its equivalent—in family court? They explore the differences between criminal and family court representation, the constitutional rights at stake for parents, and the real-world impact of not having independent legal counsel in family law cases.
The hosts discuss:
The current system of court-appointed attorneys in family court and its potential pitfalls.
Why the independence of legal representation is crucial, especially when judges or gover...
Duration: 00:24:44EP 43 Crystal Clear
Nov 14, 2025The JudgeMental Podcast – Episode 43: "Crystal Clear"
In this episode, Christine and Hugh dive back into the complexities of Jefferson County Family Court, sharing updates and insights on recent cases and court decisions. Christine opens up about her recent 24-hour fast and addresses rumors, before the hosts turn their attention to the latest developments in family law.
Key topics discussed include:
The ongoing saga of a mother detained by Lauren Ogden, her new legal representation, and the push for transparency in FOC (Friend of the Court) billing and reporting.
The importance of re...
Duration: 00:14:45EP 42 Sittin in a Tree
Nov 12, 2025Episode 42: Sittin' in a Tree
Welcome to another eye-opening episode of The JudgeMental Podcast! This week, Christine and Hugh dive deep into the tangled web of judicial ethics and conflicts of interest in family court, focusing on a real-life scenario involving Judge Gatewood and attorney Jim Murphy.
The hosts break down how a judge being a landlord to an attorney who regularly appears before them—and is appointed to lucrative roles—raises serious questions about fairness, transparency, and the appearance of impropriety. They discuss the ripple effects this has on litigants, the legal community, and publ...
Duration: 00:26:55EP 41 Put the Shovel Down
Nov 10, 2025The JudgeMental Podcast – Episode 41: "Put the Shovel Down"
In this episode of The JudgeMental Podcast, hosts Christine and Hugh dive deep into the latest developments surrounding Judge Santry and the controversy over her attendance at a political fundraiser. The discussion unpacks the ethical implications, the judicial response, and the broader issues of accountability in the family court system.
Episode Highlights:
Recap of the motion hour and Judge Santry’s refusal to recuse herself from a case involving a GAL running for public office.
Examination of the judge’s attendance at a campai...
Duration: 00:27:49EP 41 Mommy Jail
Nov 07, 2025The JudgeMental Podcast – EP 41: Mommy Jail
In this gripping episode of The JudgeMental Podcast, Christine and Hugh break down a shocking incident in family court where a mother was abruptly jailed by Judge Ogden. The hosts recount the courtroom drama, including the judge’s reaction to claims of due process violations, the role and neutrality of the Friend of the Court (FOC), and the controversial use of psychological evaluations as punitive measures.
Key Topics Discussed:
The events leading up to a mother being remanded to jail during a motion hour.
The judg...
Duration: 00:27:23EP 39 Society Loses
Nov 05, 2025The JudgeMental Podcast – Episode 39: "Society Loses"
In this episode of The JudgeMental Podcast, hosts Hugh and Christine—two lawyers on a mission to bring transparency and accountability to the courts—dive into one of the wildest days in family court. They break down the drama surrounding a high-profile recusal motion, the culture of courtroom banter, and the sometimes shocking realities of judicial conduct.
Key topics include:
A behind-the-scenes look at the denial of a recusal motion in Shelly Sentry’s courtroom
The impact of judges appearing remotely and how it affects courtroo...
Duration: 00:26:17EP 38 Spectacle
Nov 03, 2025Welcome to another episode of The JudgeMental Podcast! In this episode, we dive deep into the world of judgment, decision-making, and the stories that shape our perspectives. Join us as we explore thought-provoking discussions, real-life scenarios, and expert insights that challenge the way we think about right, wrong, and everything in between.
Highlights from this episode include:
Engaging conversations with our special guests about the nuances of judgment in everyday life.
Practical tips for using the judge-y app to navigate tricky situations and make more informed decisions.
Listener stories and questions...
Duration: 00:16:18EP 37 Become the Media
Oct 31, 2025The JudgeMental Podcast – EP 37 Become the Media
Episode Notes
In this episode of The JudgeMental Podcast, Christine and Hugh dive deep into the troubling lack of transparency in the family court system, focusing on recent emergency orders and judicial decisions that have gone unpublished and unchecked. They discuss the case of Judge Lauren Ogden, highlighting repeated interventions by the Court of Appeals and the alarming consequences for families caught in the system.
Key topics include:
The hidden nature of emergency court orders and the barriers to public access
The ro...
Duration: 00:27:17EP 36 Tantrum
Oct 27, 2025Episode 36: Tantrum — The JudgeMental Podcast
In this episode of The JudgeMental Podcast, hosts Hugh and Christine dive deep into the latest drama from Louisville Family Court. They break down a recent order from Judge Santry, which, in their words, reads like a "temper tantrum on paper." The hosts discuss the culture of the Louisville Family Bar, judicial accountability, and the importance of due process and impartiality in the courtroom.
Key topics include:
The controversy surrounding a judge’s refusal to recuse herself after attending a partisan political event with a Guardian ad Litem invo...
Duration: 00:19:39EP 35 Classic Ogden
Oct 24, 2025Episode 36: Classic Ogden
Welcome to another hard-hitting episode of The JudgeMental Podcast with your hosts, Hugh and Christine—the legal minds behind the revolutionary app and website, judge-y. This week, they dive deep into the latest controversy surrounding Judge Lauren Ogden and the Kentucky family court system.
In this episode:
Hugh and Christine break down a shocking case where Judge Ogden granted emergency custody to a grandparent, bypassing due process and Kentucky law.
The hosts discuss the trauma inflicted on families and children when judicial power is abused.
They an...
Duration: 00:26:21EP 34 Take the Wheel
Oct 22, 2025Episode Notes for The JudgeMental Podcast – Episode 34: "Take the Wheel"
Welcome to another candid and insightful episode of The JudgeMental Podcast! Hosts Hugh and Christine, the minds behind judge-y, dive deep into the realities of courtroom transparency, judicial accountability, and the quirks of legal practice.
In this episode:
The hosts recount recent experiences of being denied access to courtrooms and discuss the importance of public access and transparency in the justice system.
Reflections on the value of observing court proceedings, the evolution of courtroom dynamics post-pandemic, and the impact of Zoom co...
Duration: 00:27:43EP 33 Locked In
Oct 20, 2025Episode 33: Locked In
Welcome to another candid episode of The JudgeMental Podcast with your hosts, Hugh and Christine—the minds behind the "judge-y" app, dedicated to bringing transparency and accountability to the courtroom.
This week, Christine shares her wild experience of being literally locked inside a public courtroom—multiple times! The hosts dive into the bizarre realities of courtroom access, fire hazards, and the sometimes chaotic state of court management. They discuss the importance of public access to court proceedings, the challenges of hybrid (Zoom/in-person) hearings, and the impact of late judges on litigants, atto...
Duration: 00:39:37EP 32 Resistance is Futile
Oct 17, 2025Welcome to another episode of The JudgeMental Podcast! In this episode, we dive deep into thought-provoking topics, share candid conversations, and bring you fresh perspectives from our unique panel of guests. Whether you're here for insightful discussions or a bit of lighthearted banter, we've got something for everyone.
Today we discuss changes in the legal industry that are well underway as a result of the swiftly-changing technological landscape. We also discuss updates the the Judge-y app.
Don't forget to check out our app and website at judge-y for exclusive content, updates, and ways to connect...
Duration: 00:24:30EP 31 Seaward
Oct 15, 2025Episode 31: Seaward
In this episode of the JudgMental podcast, Christine and Hugh dive deep into a recent family court case that has become a "hot mess express." They discuss the controversial agreed order that blurs the lines between the roles of a Guardian ad Litem (GAL) and a parenting coordinator, raising serious ethical and legal concerns. The hosts break down the differences between these roles, the implications of allowing a GAL to make binding decisions for parties, and the potential violations of attorney-client privilege.
Christine and Hugh also revisit the motion to recuse Judge Shelly...
Duration: 00:19:44EP 30 Face Palm
Oct 13, 2025The JudgeMental Podcast – Episode 30
In this episode of The JudgeMental Podcast, Christine and Hugh return to the studio after a month away to dive deep into the realities of family court, courtroom management, and the challenges attorneys face in front of the bench.
Christine shares her candid experiences from Jessica Stone’s courtroom, discussing the complexities of business taxes, the role of court-appointed experts, and the importance of clear judicial decision-making. Hugh offers his perspective as a seasoned attorney, reflecting on courtroom dynamics, attorney advocacy, and the impact of judicial transparency.
Key topics incl...
Duration: 00:24:53EP 29 Paying the Toll
Oct 09, 2025Episode 29: Virtual Smackdown
In this candid and thought-provoking episode, Christine and Hugh dive deep into the realities and challenges of the family court system, sharing personal experiences and hard truths from their legal careers. They discuss the emotional toll of advocacy, the systemic issues plaguing courts across the country, and the infighting that often stalls meaningful reform.
Key topics include:
The struggle to make a difference in a system that often feels overwhelming and resistant to changeThe impact of transparency (or lack thereof) in family court proceedingsHow personal beliefs and backgrounds of GALs, FOCs... Duration: 00:38:16EP 28 Literally Zero
Oct 08, 2025The JudgeMental Podcast | EP 28 Literally Zero
Welcome to another episode of the JudgeMental Podcast, the podcast where we pull back the curtain on the realities of the legal system! This week, we dive into the shocking emptiness of Pinellas County courthouses, the rise of Zoom court, and what it means for lawyers, litigants, and the future of justice.
We debate the pros and cons of remote hearings, the impact on transparency, and whether the human element of law is being lost. If you’re a law student, attorney, or just fascinated by the evolving world of...
Duration: 00:33:58EP 27 If you think that's bad ...
Oct 07, 2025The JudgeMental Podcast – EP 27: "If you think that's bad ..."
Hosts: Hugh & Christine
Episode Summary:
Hugh and Christine, the minds behind Judge-y, discuss judicial accountability, transparency, and the latest drama in the courts.
The episode centers on a recent motion to recuse Judge Santry in Jefferson County, sparked by her attendance at a partisan campaign event and the resulting appearance of bias.
The hosts break down the legal and ethical implications, including the judge’s defensive response, the role of the guardian ad litem, and the standards for judicial impartiality in K...
Duration: 00:35:38EP 26 Wronging Rights
Oct 02, 2025Episode 26: Wronging Rights – The JudgeMental Podcast
In this powerful episode, hosts Hugh and Christine dive deep into the complexities of family law, judicial accountability, and the controversial role of court-appointed experts. Joined by special guest Josh from Orange County, they explore the real-life impact of custodial evaluations, the financial and emotional toll on families, and the systemic issues that persist in the courts.
Key Topics:
Josh’s personal journey through the family court system and his fight for justice
The challenges and pitfalls of court-appointed experts and custodial evaluations
Why...
Duration: 00:33:21BONUS EP: Custodial Evaluators
Oct 01, 2025BONUS EP: Custodial Evaluators
In this bonus episode of the JudgMental Podcast, Christine and Hugh dive into the latest developments in Louisville, Kentucky’s family court system—specifically, the controversy surrounding custodial evaluations. They discuss recent motions to disqualify commonly used evaluators, the issues of confirmation bias, testing fatigue, and the problematic “team approach” to psychological testing.
The hosts break down the findings from a Florida expert’s report, including concerns about the use of certain psychological tests, the misuse of “forensic” terminology, and the troubling confidentiality practices that leave families in the dark. They also explore t...
Duration: 00:13:08EP 24 Josh Meador
Sep 30, 2025Episode 24: Josh Meador – Fighting for Justice in Family Court
In this powerful episode of The Judgemental Podcast, hosts Hugh and Christine are joined by Josh Meador, a parent from Orange County who spent nearly six years battling the family court system for equal custody of his children. Josh shares his harrowing journey through custodial evaluations, false accusations, and the immense financial and emotional toll of the process.
Key Topics:
The role and impact of 730 evaluations in family court
Systemic issues: lack of accountability, transparency, and oversight in court-appointed evaluations
Th...
Duration: 00:56:04EP 23 Hiding the Ball
Sep 25, 2025Episode 23: Hiding the Ball
In this episode of the Judgmental Podcast, Christine and Hugh dive deep into recent changes in family court transparency, focusing on the controversial new policies around motion hour recordings and pre-rulings. They discuss the impact of these changes on attorneys, litigants, and the public, raising concerns about access, accountability, and the growing lack of transparency in the judiciary.
Key topics include:
The end of emailing pre-rulings to attorneys and the challenges this creates for legal teams and clients.
The high cost and limited access...
Duration: 00:34:35EP 22 Back in the Saddle
Sep 23, 2025EP 22: Back in the Saddle | The JudgMental Podcast
Show Notes
Christine is back! In this episode, Christine and Hugh reunite to discuss the latest in family law, courtroom culture, and the ongoing fight for due process. Broadcasting remotely, Christine shares her experiences from Florida and California, drawing comparisons to Kentucky’s legal landscape.
Key Topics Covered:
Christine’s return and remote podcasting update
Florida’s strict bar rules and the impact on attorney speech
Kentucky vs. Florida: Free speech, legal culture, and the First Amendment
Recap...
Duration: 00:27:07EP 21 Short and Bitter
Sep 18, 2025EP 21: Short and Bitter — The JudgeMental Podcast
In this candid solo episode, Hugh addresses recent challenges facing the judicial reform movement and the Judge-y community. With Christine away, Hugh opens up about the infighting, personal attacks, and politicization that have threatened the mission of judicial accountability and transparency.
Key topics include:
The importance of respect and unity within the reform movementThe dangers of radicalization and political agendas hijacking the causeChristine’s unwavering commitment to transparency and integrity in the courtsWhy Judge-y refuses to tolerate extremism, racism, or sexism in the pursuit of reformA call for... Duration: 00:06:47EP 20 Back in the 502
Sep 16, 2025Episode 20: Back in the 502
In this powerful episode of the Judgmental Podcast, Christine returns to Kentucky after an eye-opening trip to California, where she met with parents and advocates fighting for reform in the family court system. Joined by Hugh, the conversation dives deep into the emotional and systemic challenges faced by families navigating the courts, the lack of transparency, and the high financial and personal costs involved.
Key topics include:
Christine’s firsthand experiences with parents affected by family court decisions in CaliforniaThe emotional toll of hearing stories of loss, trauma, and resilienceA ca... Duration: 00:37:36EP19 A Rant
Sep 11, 2025Episode Notes: The JudgeMental Podcast – EP19: A Rant
In this special solo episode, Hugh takes the mic while Christine is away in Los Angeles, shining a light on the urgent issue of court transparency and public access to justice. Drawing from Christine’s experiences in California family courts and his own legal practice in Kentucky, Hugh explores the stark differences in how courts operate across the country.
Key topics include:
The fundamental importance of open courts and public access to judicial proceedingsHow transparency (or the lack thereof) impacts justice, accountability, and democracyThe troubling trend of i... Duration: 00:27:50Ep 18 Field Trip
Sep 09, 2025The Judgmental Podcast – Episode 18: Field Trip (On Location in California)
In this special on-location episode, hosts Hugh and Christine take The Judgmental Podcast to Orange County, California, for a deep dive into the state’s family court system. Broadcasting amidst a nationwide protest and documentary filming, they share firsthand accounts and interviews with parents, attorneys, and advocates fighting for judicial accountability and transparency.
Key Topics:
Shocking stories from California’s family courts, including prolonged ex parte orders, lack of hearings, and the impact on families.The role and power of custodial evaluators, “730 evaluations,” and the challe... Duration: 00:18:52EP 17 Matt Grant
Sep 04, 2025Show Notes: Interview with Matthew Grant – Lawsuit Against St. Louis MO Family Court
In this episode, we sit down with Matt Grant for an in-depth interview focused exclusively on his ongoing lawsuit against the St. Louis, Missouri family court. Matt shares his personal journey, the motivations behind his legal action, and the broader implications for families navigating the court system.
Key Topics Discussed:
Matt Grant’s background and what led him to file suit against the St. Louis family court.The specific issues and alleged injustices that prompted the lawsuit.How the family court syst... Duration: 00:47:48EP 16 Piling On
Sep 02, 2025The Judgemental Podcast – Episode 16: Piling On
In this episode, Hugh and Christine dive into two headline-grabbing legal stories shaking up the courts:
The Armand Langford Case (Louisville, KY):The hosts break down the controversial shock probation granted to a man with 19 prior robberies, who was rearrested for a violent home invasion and bank robbery. They discuss the judge’s unusual handling of the case, the statutory requirements for shock probation, and the broader implications for judicial discretion and public trust. Hear their candid reactions to the victim’s impact statement, the judge’s decision-making, and the media’s... Duration: 00:42:38EP 15 Shady Dealings
Aug 28, 2025The Judgemental Podcast – Episode 15: "Shady Dealings"
Hosts: Hugh & Christine
Summary:
In this episode, Hugh and Christine dive deep into recent developments in Louisville’s family and district courts, focusing on judicial accountability, transparency, and the controversial practices surrounding Friends of Court (FOCs) and the Adair vs. Emberton case.
Key Topics:
Courtroom attendance and judicial roll call: Observations on which courts and judges are showing up and which are not.Listener feedback: Real-time reports from court attendees via the Judge-y app, highlighting late dockets and delays.The Adair vs. Emberton case:What... Duration: 00:25:38EP 14 Change in the Air?
Aug 26, 2025The Judgmental Podcast – Episode 14: Change in the Air?
In this episode, Hugh and Christine dive into a viral courtroom clip that’s making waves, dissecting the legal and ethical implications of a judge’s actions and the broader issues of judicial accountability. The hosts then take listeners inside Louisville, Kentucky’s family court motion hour, offering a candid, behind-the-scenes look at five different court divisions.
Key Topics:
Viral video breakdown: A judge’s controversial handling of courtroom conduct, search and seizure, and performative justice.The role of social media in the courtroom and judicial transparen... Duration: 00:45:21EP 13 Talking S**T
Aug 21, 2025The Judgmental Podcast – EP 13: Talking S**T
Hosts: Hugh & Christine
Episode Summary:
In this candid and insightful episode, Hugh and Christine dive deep into the latest Judicial Conduct Commission biannual report, exploring the state of judicial accountability and transparency in Kentucky’s courts. The hosts break down complaint statistics, discuss the challenges of open records requests, and reflect on the public’s perception of judges versus attorneys.
Key Topics:
Overview and analysis of the Judicial Conduct Commission’s 2023-2024 reportThe prevalence and types of complaints against family court and circuit court ju... Duration: 00:27:36EP 12 Two out of Four Ain't Bad?
Aug 19, 2025The Judgmental Podcast – Two out of Four Ain't Bad?
Hosts: Hugh & Christine
Episode Summary:
In this episode, Hugh and Christine dive deep into the realities of judicial accountability and transparency in the court system. They discuss their recent “judicial roll call,” revealing surprising statistics about judge attendance and courtroom activity. The hosts share candid insights on the challenges of family court, the roles of GALs (Guardians ad Litem) and FOCs (Friends of the Court), and the systemic issues that arise from overworked court-appointed professionals.
Key Topics:
Judicial roll call results: attend... Duration: 00:43:16EP 11 Viral Judges
Aug 14, 2025The Judgmental Podcast – Episode 11: Courtroom Chronicles & Viral Judges
Join hosts Hugh and Christine, the minds behind Judge-y, as they dive into a week of courtroom observations, candid critiques, and sharp insights into the world of judicial accountability.
In This Episode:
A breakdown of a viral judicial clip: Is courtroom advice performative or helpful?Firsthand experiences from visiting five different family court divisions in Louisville.Behind-the-scenes stories: From mistaken identities on Zoom to the realities of motion hour.Standout moments: Judge Laura Russell’s impressive courtroom control and efficiency.Systemic issues: Unprepared judges, missing case file... Duration: 00:34:04EP 10 Like, So Dramatic
Aug 12, 2025Episode 10 — Like, So Dramatic
Podcast: The Judgmental Podcast with Hugh & Christine
Theme: Judicial accountability, courtroom drama, and the politics of family court.
Episode Overview
In this candid conversation, Hugh and Christine pull back the curtain on the Louisville legal scene — from judges mentioning them in court to attorneys using TikTok posts as courtroom ammunition. They dissect recent courtroom encounters, questionable judicial rulings, and how strategy can make or break a case. The duo also reacts to viral courtroom clips, calls out systemic flaws, and examines the influence of money on court-ordered prog...
Duration: 00:53:47EP 09 Special Episode
Aug 08, 2025In this special on-site episode of The Judgmental Podcast, hosts Hugh and Christine take you inside the courthouse for a candid, real-time discussion about judicial accountability and transparency. They break down a recent controversy involving a judge’s use of TikTok to record a domestic violence hearing, explore the ethical and legal implications of judges recording court proceedings for personal gain, and share their heated exchange with former judge and current court administrator McKay Chauvin. Tune in for sharp insights, behind-the-scenes stories, and the tough questions that need answers about privacy, public records, and the future of justice in th...
Duration: 00:15:40EP 08 Another Roll Call
Aug 07, 2025The Judgemental Podcast – EP 08: Another Roll Call
Hosts: Hugh & Christine
Episode Summary:
In this episode, Hugh and Christine return from a day in court to share their candid observations about judicial attendance, the realities of family and district court, and the ongoing challenges within the legal system. They dive deep into the roles and billing practices of Guardian ad Litems (GALs) and Friends of the Court (FOCs), discuss the impact of fee structures on attorneys and clients, and respond to listener questions about legal advice and court procedures.
Key Topics:
Co... Duration: 00:56:45EP 07 Why it Matters
Aug 05, 2025Episode 7 – The JudgeMental Podcast: Judicial Accountability, Real Courtroom Stories, and Why It Matters
In this powerful episode, hosts Hugh and Christine —two seasoned lawyers and the minds behind Judge-y —pull back the curtain on the realities of the family court system. They celebrate the launch of their podcast, share the overwhelming feedback from listeners, and issue a call to action for both attorneys and the public to demand more from the judiciary.
Key Topics:
The importance of judicial accountability and transparency, and why it’s time to judge the judges.Personal stories from the courtroo... Duration: 00:56:17EP 06 Dressing Down
Jul 31, 2025The JudgeMental Podcast – Episode 06
Title: Dressing Down
Hosts: Hugh & Christine
Episode Summary:
In this candid episode of The JudgeMental Podcast, hosts Hugh and Christine—two seasoned attorneys and the minds behind Judgy—dive deep into the world of judicial accountability. They break down viral clips of judges on social media, share personal stories from their combined 30 years in law, and discuss the real reasons they both left the legal profession.
Key Topics:
Viral courtroom moments: Analyzing a judge’s public apology after an outburst and what it reveals about co... Duration: 00:57:58EP 05 AI is Coming
Jul 29, 2025The JudgeMental Podcast – EP 05 AI is Coming
Hosts: Hugh & Christine
Episode Summary:
In this candid and insightful episode, Hugh and Christine, the minds behind Judge-y, dive deep into the realities of the court system, judicial accountability, and the challenges facing both practitioners and the public. They discuss their recent experience observing local judges, the persistent backlog in district courts, and the impact of COVID-era scheduling on justice delivery.
Key Topics:
Judicial Attendance & Accountability: The hosts share their observations on the low number of judges present in court and what that me... Duration: 01:01:28Ep 04 Pardon the Delay
Jul 24, 2025On today's episode of the Judgmental Podcast, Christine and Hugh dive into the major problem that is delays in Family court. Hugh shares a personal experience of what happened to his client in Oldham County. Christine dives in to give more backstory about her journey over the last two years since she left family Court.
Duration: 00:34:45EP 03 - S-Y-B-A-U
Jul 23, 2025In this episode, attorneys Hugh and Christine discuss the community feedback from the bet.
The hosts take a critical look at delays and the length of time it takes for courts to enter orders. These have real life consequences for the constituents that the judges' were elected to represent.
Christine poses questions about a local family court judge that has a personal podcast, yet takes months to issue an order.
The episode concludes with a discussion of practicing in city courts vs the county court in Kentucky.
Duration: 00:36:22Ep 02 - The Bet Conclusion
Jul 22, 2025In this episode, the hosts break down the results of the bet over Kentucky craft beer. How many judges were in court on a Tuesday at 1:30 p.m.?
Hugh breaks down the reasons that led to him leaving family law after twenty years while Christine questions whether or not the system was designed to operate this way.
Either way both attorneys agree it's past time for judicial accountability and discuss what led them to want to create Judge-y.
Duration: 00:46:47Podcast Ep 01 - The Bet
Jul 16, 2025In this episode, the hosts take a critical look at the inner workings of the judicial system. They shine a light on judicial transparency, misconduct, and the far-reaching impact of judicial decisions on litigants' lives.
One major concern raised is the potential conflict of interest between judges and the media. They recount troubling instances of judges allegedly leaking to the press in high-profile cases and explicitly question whether the current a retired judge, is a spokesperson who squashes negative stories to protect judges' reputations.
Their conversation further explores alarming patterns of judicial behavior, including decisions mad...
Duration: 01:02:59