Join attorney Jonathan Bench as he sits down with attorneys and business leaders from across the globe to explore the intersection of law, business, and innovation. Each conversation dives into diverse areas of expertise, offering practical insights to thought-provoking perspectives on challenges and opportunities shaping today's legal industry.
Cross-Border Litigation and the Rule of Law – China, Commerce, and Legal Bridges with Jerry Fang
Jonathan Bench speaks with Jerry Fang, partner at Zhong Lun Law Firm, former Chinese judge, and U.S.- and China-qualified attorney, about the realities of cross-border legal practice between the United States and China. Jerry shares his unconventional path from the Chinese judiciary to Columbia Law School and international law firms, explaining how judicial experience shaped his approach to litigation, regulatory matters, and dispute resolution. Jonathan and Jerry discuss the evolution of China’s legal system, common misconceptions about Chinese courts, and why experienced local counsel remains essential for companies navigating regulatory and commercial challenges across jurisdictions. The conversation also explores current trends in U.S.-China business relations, opportunities and risks arising from geopolitical tensions, the growing complexity of compliance, data, and trade regulations, and the critical role lawyers play in facilitating commerce, resolving disputes, and strengthening legal cooperation between two of the world’s largest economies.
19 May 2026
Religion, High-Trust Leadership, and Social Connection – Business, Belief, and Building Meaningful Relationships with Hank Smith
Jonathan Bench speaks with BYU professor, speaker, and FollowHIM podcast host Hank Smith about high-trust organizations, the role of religion and moral frameworks in modern society, and the connection between meaningful relationships and long-term personal and professional success. Drawing from his research in educational leadership and years consulting with schools, businesses, and families, Hank explains how trust functions as the “oil” within organizations, why emotional safety and open dialogue are essential to healthy teams, and how leaders can create cultures where people feel valued rather than transactional. They discuss the pressures facing professionals, parents, and young adults, the challenges of balancing career ambition with family and faith, and the importance of frequent, positive, low-risk interactions in building strong relationships. The conversation also explores religious pluralism, humility, and why exposure to people with different beliefs can deepen empathy, leadership, and personal growth.
12 May 2026
Balancing Growth and Values: Economic Policy, Social Capital, and the Future of Utah with Natalie Gochnour
In this episode, Jonathan sits down with Natalie Gochnour, director of the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute and associate dean at the University of Utah, to explore what drives long-term economic prosperity at the intersection of law, policy, and business. Drawing on her experience advising governors, leading economic research, and shaping public dialogue, Natalie breaks down Utah’s "economic success story," from workforce strength and upward mobility to the often-overlooked power of social capital and trust. The conversation also tackles harder questions around growth, including housing, education, and the future of the Great Salt Lake, while offering a thoughtful framework for navigating political division through "mutual accommodation." From Olympic legacy impacts to the role of higher education and personal leadership, this episode is a grounded, data-informed look at how policy decisions shape not just economies, but the way we live.
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