The salient point of this podcast episode revolves around the complexities and frustrations associated with the notary requirements for court reporters, particularly in the context of the differing regulations across jurisdictions. I delve into my personal experience of preparing for the notary test, which I undertook under challenging circumstances, and reflect on the relevance of the material to my profession. The episode serves as a platform for exploring the broader implications of certification and compliance in our field, while also questioning the necessity of certain regulations that may not correlate with our day-to-day responsibilities as court reporters. I invite listeners to engage in this discourse, fostering a community of shared insights and experiences. Ultimately, we aim to illuminate the pathways toward professional development and clarity within the court reporting profession.

Takeaways:

1. This podcast emphasizes the importance of reflective practice in the court reporting profession, urging listeners to consider their roles deeply.
2. Listeners are encouraged to navigate the complexities of notary law and CSR certification with confidence and clarity.
3. The conversation highlights the necessity of movement and action in addressing complaints, thereby facilitating personal and professional growth.
4. The podcast discusses the disconnect between notary law and court reporting duties, questioning the relevance of notary certification for court reporters.
5. It is suggested that the court reporting community advocate for a more coherent licensing system, similar to that of California.
6. Listeners are reminded that one's perspective can be transformed through movement, encouraging proactive engagement with challenges.

It’s officially 2026.

In this New Year kickoff episode, Brynn reflects on what 2025 revealed, celebrates unexpected milestones, and lays out a clear vision for what’s ahead on the Court Reporter Podcast.

This episode introduces the podcast’s new season-based format, the core themes for the year, and a transparent look at Brynn’s personal recommitment to growth, including her journey toward the RPR and deeper national-level understanding of the profession.

This is not about perfection.

It’s about clarity, structure, and doing the work out loud.

If you’ve ever felt unsure, overwhelmed, or like you’re just figuring things out as you go, this episode sets the tone for a different kind of year.

• Why 2026 is the Year of Transformation

• A behind-the-scenes look at the podcast’s growth and milestones

• What’s changing with the podcast structure and why

• The four core principles that define court reporting across all jurisdictions

• Brynn’s honest recommitment to pursuing the RPR and true professional mastery

• A preview of each season planned for 2026

• Why expertise is more than credentials

• What it really means to build confidence, clarity, and authority in this profession

• Ethics, licensure, certification, and professional identity

• Assertive communication and confidence on the record

• Business systems, burnout reduction, and future-proofing your career

• Judicial interviews, community conversations, and national observances

• The launch of the Court Reporter Podcast Awards

This podcast exists to bridge gaps, elevate standards, and support court reporters and litigation professionals navigating real-world challenges with intention.

If this episode resonates, stay connected.

Sign up for the newsletter at courtreporterpodcast.com to receive updates, episode drops, and invitations to upcoming discussions and accountability sessions.

This is the year we do things differently.

Join me for finance management accountability sessions! I'll send the schedule via the newsletter which you can join by going to: courtreporterpodcast.com

Today we're wrapping up the mini episode series with Tips #8–10 on how attorneys can work best with their court reporters. This is important because they don't seem to teach it much in law school, so hearing directly from a court reporter all the things we want attorneys to know, can be so helpful. Attorneys, this is for you. Listening to this series will put you one step ahead of all of your colleagues.

Feel free to email brynn@courtreporterpodcast.com!

If this series helped you lead the room and protect the record, please leave a 5-star rating or a short review—even a quick star rating helps more reporters and attorneys find the show.