Repeat guests and fan favorites Kevin Shires and Rob Hammers return to the Sports ’N Torts podcast for one of the most entertaining and insightful episodes to close out Season 5.

Josh, Kevin, and Rob dive into the unique friendships that can develop between plaintiff and defense attorneys despite battling on opposite sides of cases for years. The conversation covers professionalism in litigation, trial strategy, mediation culture, authenticity with juries, memorable courtroom moments, and the importance of credibility and collegiality in the legal profession.

The episode also includes hilarious “what lawyers really mean” translations between plaintiff and defense attorneys, stories from trials and mediations, and Kevin’s unforgettable courtroom wardrobe malfunction.

In the second half, the conversation pivots to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where Kevin and Rob break down:

• host cities,
• marquee matches,
• Team USA expectations,
• global soccer fan culture,
• favorites like Spain, France, and Argentina,
• and why the World Cup is unlike any sporting event on earth.

This episode is equal parts legal insight, sports passion, friendship, and comedy — and a perfect way to close out Season 5.

Show Notes

On This Episode

• Why plaintiff and defense lawyers can fiercely compete while still building real friendships
• The importance of professionalism and credibility in litigation
• How Kevin Shires gave Rob Hammers his first legal job during the financial collapse of 2008
• Lessons young lawyers need to hear about collegiality and authenticity
• Memorable trial stories, mediation battles, and courtroom disasters
• “What lawyers are actually saying” segment
• The evolution of mediation and litigation post-COVID
• Why juries respond to vulnerability and honesty
• 2026 FIFA World Cup preview
• Team USA expectations and World Cup storylines
• Why Atlanta is positioned to become a premier soccer city
• The global culture and atmosphere surrounding the World Cup

Memorable Moments

“You can disagree without being disagreeable.”

Kevin and Rob discuss how professionalism and trust create better outcomes for lawyers, clients, and cases alike.

The Interview Story

Kevin shares the story of hiring Rob during the 2008 financial collapse after Rob ended the interview with:

“Just give me a chance and I won’t let you down.”

Trial Lessons & Authenticity

The group discusses:

• adapting during trial,
• owning weaknesses,
• reading jurors,
• and why authenticity matters more than perfection.

The “What Lawyers Really Mean” Segment

One of the funniest parts of the episode:

• “I’ve got a very reasonable client.”
• “That’s all the authority I have.”
• “We’d really like to avoid litigation.”
• “Medical specials don’t tell the full story.”
• “We’re open to mediation.”

World Cup Discussion Highlights

2026 World Cup Overview

• Expanded 48-team format
• U.S., Canada, and Mexico as host nations
• Atlanta’s major role in the tournament
• Why soccer’s popularity continues to grow in America

Teams & Players to Watch

• Spain’s rising young star Lamine Yamal
• Kylian Mbappé and France’s championship hopes
• Lionel Messi chasing one more World Cup run
• Team USA expectations and why a quarterfinal appearance would be a major success

Favorite Quotes

“You can disagree without being disagreeable.”

“Jurors can see through the stuff you’re selling.”

“If your defense requires a lengthy explanation, there’s no way a jury is going to buy it.”