Talk Legal to Me - Real Life, Real Law, Real Talk
Talk Legal to Me explores the intersection of everyday life and the law. We will look at how the law empowers, entangles, protects, or disrupts the people and communities it touches. Through thoughtful conversations, real-life stories, and insightful solo episodes, attorney and educator, Shanita Q. T. Straw, and attorney Alexandrea Sharae, will unpack the legal issues behind the headlines and inside our households, bringing you perspectives from two generations. We will cover everything from real estate, estate planning and entrepreneurship to housing, family, and justice. So, whether you’re facing a challenge, navigating a change, or simply want to be better informed, this podcast is your place to listen, learn, and lead with purpose.
Talk Legal to Me explores the intersection of everyday life and the law. We will look at how the law empowers, entangles, protects, or disrupts the people and communities it touches. Through thoughtful conversations, real-life stories, and insightful solo episodes, attorney and educator, Shanita Q. T. Straw, and attorney Alexandrea Sharae, will unpack the legal issues behind the headlines and inside our households, bringing you perspectives from two generations. We will cover everything from real estate, estate planning and entrepreneurship to housing, family, and justice. So, whether you’re facing a challenge, navigating a change, or simply want to be better informed, this podcast is your place to listen, learn, and lead with purpose.
Listen on:
ABOUT OUR HOSTS

Shanita Straw
Shanita is the founder of Golden Law, a general practice law firm in Broadview, Illinois.
She received her Juris Doctorate from The John Marshall Law School now known as UIC Law in Chicago and is a member of the Chicago Bar Association.
She received her Master of Arts degree in Sociology from Roosevelt University and she earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science with a Minor in Business Administration from Northern Illinois University.
In addition to practicing law, Shanita is a public speaker and an adjunct professor with the City Colleges of Chicago where she teaches Sociology and Paralegal courses. Shanita enjoys singing, dancing, skating, traveling and spending time with her husband Leonard, their children and grandchildren.

Alexandrea Sharae
Alexandrea Sharae is a federal litigator whose work primarily centers on the Defense Base Act and maritime law. Her work involves complex federal litigation, which includes psychological injury claims, credibility analysis, discovery strategy, and administrative hearings.
Through her legal career, she has developed a reputation for having thoughtful analysis, structured reasoning, and the ability to identify patterns beneath the surface of conflict and communication.
That same approach extends beyond the courtroom into her work as the founder of Guided by Purpose Life Coaching. It is here where she help women develop emotional discipline, spiritual clarity, and intentional decision making in relationships and personal growth. By bridging legal reasoning, emotional intelligence, and faith-based discernment, Alexandrea offers a grounded perspective that encourages people to approach life with wisdom, self-awareness, and practical alignment between faith and action.
Through her writing, teaching, and coaching, Alexandrea is passionate about helping ambitious women build lives rooted in peace, purpose, and emotional maturity rather than confusion, pressure, or performance.
Alexandrea received her Juris Doctorate from UIC Law in Chicago. She received her Master of Business Administration from Roosevelt University and she earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Illinois Springfield. When Alexandrea is not working, she enjoys spending time with her fur babies Cali Julz and Saint Luca.
Episodes

4 days ago
4 days ago
39 min
Do you understand how property taxes affect your property and finances?
In Episode 10 of Talk Legal To Me: Real Life. Real Law. Real Talk., Shanita Straw and Alexandrea Robinson sit down with Kelsey Frank for a conversation about Property taxes.
Property taxes are an important part of owning real estate, yet many property owners have questions about them and how they affect their financial responsibilities.
Join the conversation to learn more about property taxes and why understanding them matters.
💬 Question of the day: Do you think property taxes are too high? Let us know in the comments!
👍 Like this post, subscribe to our YouTube channel, and turn on notifications so you don't miss future episodes.
🎧 Listen to more episodes on Podbean https://talklegaltome.podbean.com/
🔔 Subscribe to Talk Legal To Me https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmHHnj-FJarSpHplaCi7eGQ/
Talk Legal To Me: Real Life. Real Law. Real Talk.
Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not legal or tax advice.
#TalkLegalToMe #PropertyTaxes #RealEstate #PropertyOwnership #KelseyFrank #GoldenLaw #illinoislaw #chicagorealestate #chicagorealestatebroker #chicagorealestateagent
4 days ago
39 min
Oct 9, 2026
Oct 9, 2026
40 min
Have you thought about what will happen to your assets and your family when you are no longer here?
In Episode 9 of Talk Legal To Me: Real Life. Real Law. Real Talk., Shanita Q. T. Straw, Esq. sits down with Theodore Kuczek to discuss Estate planning and why planning ahead matters.
Estate planning can help you make important decisions about your assets, your wishes, and the legacy you want to leave behind. It is an important conversation for anyone who wants to be more intentional about the future.
💬 Join the conversation: Have you started planning your estate, or is it something you still need to do? Share your thoughts in the comments.
👍 Like this video, subscribe to our YouTube channel, and turn on notifications so you never miss an episode.
🎧 Listen on Podbean: https://talklegaltome.podbean.com/
🔔 Subscribe to Talk Legal To Me https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmHHnj-FJarSpHplaCi7eGQ/ for more conversations about life, law, family, business, relationships, entrepreneurship, and legacy.
Talk Legal To Me: Real Life. Real Law. Real Talk.
Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not legal advice and does not establish an attorney-client relationship.
#TalkLegalToMe #EstatePlanning #EstatePlanningTips #WillsAndTrusts #AssetProtection #LegacyPlanning #GenerationalWealth #Probate #LegalEducation #TheodoreKuczek #ShanitaStraw #GoldenLaw #ChicagoLaw #IllinoisLaw #LegalPodcast
Oct 9, 2026
40 min
Sep 25, 2026
Sep 25, 2026
52 min
Is a premarital agreement only for wealthy couples? What happens when love meets financial and legal decisions?
In Episode 8 of Talk Legal To Me, Shanita Q. T. Straw, Esq. welcome Kyle Ruchim for an insightful conversation about premarital agreements, commonly known as prenuptial agreements or prenups.
They discuss what premarital agreements are, why couples may consider them before marriage, and how having important conversations about finances, property, and expectations can help couples make informed decisions about their future.
In this episode, we explore:
What is a premarital agreement, and how does it work?
Why might couples consider a prenup before getting married?
What financial and property matters can a premarital agreement address?
When should couples start discussing a premarital agreement?
What should couples understand before signing one?
Whether you're planning to get married, already engaged, or simply curious about premarital agreements, this conversation offers useful information to help you understand the topic and the questions you may want to ask a qualified legal professional.
💬 Join the conversation: What is one thing you think couples should discuss before getting married? Share your thoughts in the comments.
🎙️ Talk Legal To MeReal Life. Real Law. Real Talk.
Subscribe to our channel and turn on notifications so you never miss an episode.
Watch, listen, and join the conversation.
🔔 Subscribe to Talk Legal To Me https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmHHnj-FJarSpHplaCi7eGQ for more conversations about life, law, family, business, relationships, entrepreneurship, and legacy.
If you enjoyed this episode, please like, share, and leave a comment. Your support helps us reach more people and continue these important conversations.
DISCLAIMER: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as legal advice. Listening to this podcast does not create an attorney-client relationship.
#TalkLegalToMe #PremaritalAgreement #PrenuptialAgreement #Prenup #Marriage #FamilyLaw #MarriagePlanning #KyleRuchim #GoldenLaw #RealLifeRealLawRealTalk #Legal #Attorney
Sep 25, 2026
52 min

Sep 11, 2026
Sep 11, 2026
37 min
What exactly is a Land Trust Agreement, and why might a property owner consider one? In this episode of Talk Legal To Me, Shanita Q. T. Straw, Esq. sits down with David Lanciotti for a conversation about Land Trust Agreements and the role they can play in property ownership.
They discussed what land trusts are, how they work, why someone might use one, and important considerations property owners should understand before entering into a Land Trust Agreement. If you own real estate or are thinking about how to structure and protect your property, this conversation may give you important questions to take to your legal professional.
In this episode, we discuss:
• What is a Land Trust Agreement? • How does a land trust work? • Why might someone use a land trust? • What should property owners consider? • Common questions about land trusts and property ownership
What is your biggest question about land trusts? Drop it in the comments.
🎙️ Talk Legal To Me Real Life. Real Law. Real Talk.
🎧 Listen on Podbean: https://talklegaltome.podbean.com/
🔔 Subscribe to Talk Legal To Me https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmHHnj-FJarSpHplaCi7eGQ for more conversations about life, law, family, business, relationships, entrepreneurship, and legacy.
If you enjoyed this episode, please like, share, and leave a comment. Your support helps us reach more people and continue these important conversations.
DISCLAIMER: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as legal advice. Listening to this podcast does not create an attorney-client relationship.
#TalkLegalToMe #LandTrust #LandTrustAgreement #RealEstate #RealEstateLaw #PropertyOwnership #EstatePlanning #IllinoisLaw #GoldenLaw #legalawareness #legal #attorney
Sep 11, 2026
37 min

Aug 28, 2026
Aug 28, 2026
47 min
When parents separate or divorce, two questions often become especially important:
Who will the children spend time with? And how will their financial needs be supported?
In Episode 6 of Talk Legal To Me: Real Life. Real Law. Real Talk., host Shanita Q. T. Straw, Esq. welcomes special guest Angela S. Larimer for an important conversation about parenting time and child support.
The conversation explores some of the questions parents may have when navigating these issues, including how parenting time and child support work, the factors that may influence decisions, and why keeping the best interests of the child at the center of the conversation matters.
In this episode, we discuss:
• What parenting time means• How parenting time can affect families• What parents should understand about child support• Important considerations when making decisions involving children• Common questions parents may have during separation or divorce• Why informed decision-making matters when children are involved
Whether you're currently navigating a family law matter or simply want to better understand these issues, this conversation provides an opportunity to learn more about parenting time and child support.
🎙️ Meet Our Guest:Angela S. Larimer
📺 Watch the full episode on YouTube:https://youtu.be/QzVs303nkNc
🎧 Listen on Podbean:https://talklegaltome.podbean.com/
🔔 Subscribe to Talk Legal To Me https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmHHnj-FJarSpHplaCi7eGQ/ for more conversations about life, law, family, business, relationships, entrepreneurship, and legacy.
💬 Question for you: What is the biggest question you have about parenting time or child support?
Share this episode with a parent, family member, or friend who may find this conversation helpful.
#TalkLegalToMe #ParentingTime #ChildSupport #FamilyLaw #RealLifeRealLawRealTalk #GoldenLaw #IllinoisAttorney #Attorney #Legal #WillVsTrust #AttorneyTips #IllinoisLaw #legalpodcast #podcast #reallifereallawrealtalk
Aug 28, 2026
47 min
Aug 14, 2026
Aug 14, 2026
24 min
Divorce is not just a legal process. It can be an incredibly emotional experience, and those emotions can sometimes influence the decisions we make.
In Episode 5 of Talk Legal To Me: Real Life. Real Law. Real Talk., host Shanita Q. T. Straw, Esq. welcome special guest Shawn McKenna for an important conversation about the emotional side of divorce.
How do anger, fear, sadness, frustration, or even the desire to "win" influence the choices people make during divorce? And how can individuals approach important decisions with greater clarity when emotions are running high?
This episode explores the intersection of emotions and decision-making during one of life's most difficult transitions.
Join us for an honest and thoughtful conversation about:
• How emotions can influence decisions during divorce• Why it can be difficult to think clearly during an emotional time• The importance of making informed decisions• How emotional reactions can affect the divorce process• The value of taking a step back before making major decisions• Approaching divorce with greater awareness and perspective
If you or someone you know is navigating divorce, this conversation may provide valuable insight into the emotional and practical considerations that come with the process.
🎥 Watch Talk Legal To Me on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmHHnj-FJarSpHplaCi7eGQ/
🎙️ Listen on Podbean:https://talklegaltome.podbean.com/
🔔 Subscribe and follow Talk Legal To Me so you don't miss future episodes featuring real conversations about life, law, business, family, relationships, entrepreneurship, and legacy.
If you enjoyed this episode, please like, share, and leave a comment. Your support helps us reach more people and continue these important conversations.
#TalkLegalToMe #Divorce #DivorceAndEmotions #FamilyLaw #LegalPodcast #WomenInLaw #DivorceSupport #RealLifeRealLawRealTalk #Podcast #ShanitaStraw #AlexandreaStraw
DISCLAIMER:The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as legal advice. Listening to this podcast does not create an attorney-client relationship.
Aug 14, 2026
24 min
Aug 14, 2026
Aug 14, 2026
24 min
Divorce is not just a legal process. It can be an incredibly emotional experience, and those emotions can sometimes influence the decisions we make.
In Episode 5 of Talk Legal To Me: Real Life. Real Law. Real Talk., host Shanita Q. T. Straw, Esq. welcome special guest Shawn McKenna for an important conversation about the emotional side of divorce.
How do anger, fear, sadness, frustration, or even the desire to "win" influence the choices people make during divorce? And how can individuals approach important decisions with greater clarity when emotions are running high?
This episode explores the intersection of emotions and decision-making during one of life's most difficult transitions.
Join us for an honest and thoughtful conversation about:
• How emotions can influence decisions during divorce• Why it can be difficult to think clearly during an emotional time• The importance of making informed decisions• How emotional reactions can affect the divorce process• The value of taking a step back before making major decisions• Approaching divorce with greater awareness and perspective
If you or someone you know is navigating divorce, this conversation may provide valuable insight into the emotional and practical considerations that come with the process.
🎥 Watch Talk Legal To Me on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmHHnj-FJarSpHplaCi7eGQ/
🎙️ Listen on Podbean:https://talklegaltome.podbean.com/
🔔 Subscribe and follow Talk Legal To Me so you don't miss future episodes featuring real conversations about life, law, business, family, relationships, entrepreneurship, and legacy.
If you enjoyed this episode, please like, share, and leave a comment. Your support helps us reach more people and continue these important conversations.
#TalkLegalToMe #Divorce #DivorceAndEmotions #FamilyLaw #LegalPodcast #WomenInLaw #DivorceSupport #RealLifeRealLawRealTalk #Podcast #ShanitaStraw #AlexandreaStraw
DISCLAIMER:The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as legal advice. Listening to this podcast does not create an attorney-client relationship.
Aug 14, 2026
24 min
Jul 31, 2026
Jul 31, 2026
39 min
In this episode of Talk Legal to Me: Real Life. Real Law. Real Talk., host Shanita Q. T. Straw, Esq. welcome special guest Anna Krolikowska for an insightful conversation about collaborative divorce.
Divorce is often associated with conflict, lengthy court battles, and emotional stress. But is there another way?
Together, we explore how collaborative divorce works, who it may be right for, and how it can help families navigate one of life's most challenging transitions with greater communication, respect, and cooperation.
In this episode, you'll learn:• What collaborative divorce is• How it differs from traditional litigation• The benefits and challenges of the collaborative process• Why communication and planning matter• What individuals and families should consider before making important legal decisions
Whether you're facing divorce, supporting someone who is, or simply want to understand the legal options available, this conversation offers valuable insights from experienced legal professionals.
If you found this episode helpful:
✅ Subscribe to our channel👍 Like this video💬 Share your thoughts in the comments🔔 Turn on notifications so you never miss a new episode.
🎥 Watch on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmHHnj-FJarSpHplaCi7eGQ
🎙️ Listen on Podbean:https://talklegaltome.podbean.com/
Follow Talk Legal to Me on social media for more conversations about life, law, business, family, entrepreneurship, and legacy.
#TalkLegalToMe #CollaborativeDivorce #Divorce #FamilyLaw #LegalPodcast #WomenInLaw #LegalEducation #Podcast #RealLifeRealLawRealTalk
Disclaimer:The information shared in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as legal advice. Listening to this podcast does not create an attorney-client relationship.
Jul 31, 2026
39 min
Jul 17, 2026
Jul 17, 2026
26 min
What happens when an adult is no longer able to make important decisions for themselves? In this episode of Talk Legal to Me: Real Life. Real Law. Real Talk., Shanita Q. T. Straw, Esq. explore the topic of adult guardianship, explaining what it is, when it may become necessary, and the legal responsibilities involved. Whether you're caring for an aging parent, supporting a loved one with a disability, or simply planning for the future, understanding adult guardianship is an important part of protecting those you care about. In this episode, we discuss: • What adult guardianship is • When guardianship may be appropriate • The legal process involved • Responsibilities of a guardian • Alternatives that may be available • Why planning ahead matters Join us for an informative conversation that helps make a complex legal topic easier to understand. If you found this episode helpful: ✅ Subscribe to our channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmHHnj-FJarSpHplaCi7eGQ 👍 Like this video 💬 Share your thoughts in the comments 🔔 Turn on notifications so you never miss an episode. 🎙️ Listen on Podbean: https://talklegaltome.podbean.com/ Follow *Talk Legal to Me* on social media for more conversations about life, law, business, family, and legacy. #TalkLegalToMe #AdultGuardianship #EstatePlanning #FamilyLaw #LegalEducation #LegalPodcast #WomenInLaw #Caregiving #PlanningAhead #RealLifeRealLawRealTalkDisclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as legal advice. Listening to this podcast does not create an attorney-client relationship.
Jul 17, 2026
26 min
Jul 3, 2026
Jul 3, 2026
47 min
In this episode of Talk Legal to Me: Real Life. Real Law. Real Talk., Shanita Q. T. Straw, Esq. and Alexandrea Sharae, Esq. discuss one of the most talked-about legal cases in recent months—the Karmelo Anthony case.
Following the June 10, 2026 verdict, we examine the legal issues raised by the case, the public reaction, and the importance of separating facts from opinions when discussing high-profile legal matters.
Our conversation explores how the legal system works, why verdicts can generate strong public responses, and what lessons can be learned from understanding the law beyond the headlines.
Whether you followed the case closely or are hearing about it for the first time, this episode provides thoughtful legal insight and encourages informed discussion.
If you enjoyed this episode:
✅ Subscribe to the channel
👍 Like this video
💬 Share your respectful thoughts in the comments
🔔 Turn on notifications so you never miss an episode.
🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmHHnj-FJarSpHplaCi7eGQ
🎙️ Listen on Podbean: https://talklegaltome.podbean.com/
Follow us on social media for episode updates, behind-the-scenes content, and upcoming conversations.
#TalkLegalToMe #KarmeloAnthony #LegalAnalysis #RealLifeRealLawRealTalk #LegalPodcast #CurrentEvents #WomenInLaw #Podcast
Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as legal advice. Listening to this podcast does not create an attorney-client relationship. If you need legal advice regarding your specific situation, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.
Jul 3, 2026
47 min



