This week, we had a fascinating conversation with Arie Redboard, Head of Legal and Government Affairs at TRM Labs, a blockchain intelligence company. Arie’s journey exemplifies adapting legal career growth through transitions from a prosecutor at the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia to a key player in blockchain and cryptocurrency law. His experience highlights the importance of adaptability and embracing new challenges in today’s rapidly changing legal landscape.
Watch the full conversation Ari Redbord here:
Adapting Legal Career Growth: A Career Driven by Passion and Purpose
Arie’s career path is a testament to the power of passion and purpose. His 14 years at the U.S. Attorney’s Office, where he prosecuted a wide range of cases—from domestic violence to terrorism and espionage—instilled in him a deep commitment to justice and public service.
He started out prosecuting domestic violence cases and really fell in love with them. He never realized how impactful they would be to his career and his life.
The Importance of Team and Mission
Arie’s experience at the U.S. Attorney’s Office highlights the importance of team and mission in driving career satisfaction. He emphasizes the collaborative nature of the work, where prosecutors, agents, and investigators work together to achieve a common goal.
He describes it as being on a mission, feeling in lockstep with like-minded people, working to keep America safe.
Financial Expertise: A Pathway for Legal Career Growth
Arie’s passion for financial crimes led him to the Treasury Department, where he served as a senior advisor to the Under Secretary for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence. This role provided him with a broader perspective on the policy implications of financial crimes, particularly in the context of cryptocurrency.
He realized that even all the different kinds of cases he was describing—from child exploitation to terrorist financing—were ultimately financial cases. Following the money is what you do in any investigation.
Navigating the World of Blockchain and Cryptocurrency: Adapting Legal Career Growth
Arie’s journey to TRM Labs reflects his belief in the transformative potential of blockchain technology. He sees it as a powerful tool that can revolutionize the financial system, but also recognizes the need for robust anti-money laundering and terrorist financing measures.
He believes they are building the next financial system. But they have to figure out a way to thread that needle. They need to keep money laundering and terrorist financing activity out of the crypto ecosystem.
The Future Belongs to Builders
Arie’s perspective on the future of blockchain and cryptocurrency is shaped by his belief that the future belongs to builders. He emphasizes the importance of actively shaping the future by building new technologies and systems that address the challenges and opportunities presented by this rapidly evolving field.
He believes it doesn’t matter what your title is, it doesn’t matter what your background is. It’s what you do, not what you’ve done. The future is for builders.
A Team-Oriented Approach to Success
Arie’s advice for those seeking to build a successful career in the world of blockchain and cryptocurrency is to prioritize team building. He emphasizes the importance of surrounding yourself with supportive and like-minded individuals who share your passion and vision.
He believes careers can be a team sport. Build a team of people in your life who want to work together, who have your back, and who support your journey.
Arie’s journey from prosecutor to blockchain innovator underscores the importance of passion, purpose, and collaboration in shaping a successful and fulfilling career. His insights offer valuable guidance for in-house corporate lawyers navigating the evolving world of technology and regulation.
Watch the full conversation here: Notes to My (Legal) Self: Season 2, Episode 7(ft. Ari Redbord)
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