PODCASTS
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.
About the 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
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.
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.
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 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 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.
In this inaugural episode, host Shanita Q. T. Straw, Esq. and co-host Alexandrea Straw, Esq. share their individual journeys into the legal profession, discuss the inspiration behind creating this podcast, and give listeners a preview of the conversations to come.
We are having a Heartfelt Conversation with Jennifer on the importance of Estate Planning. In this video, Jennifer shares her perspective on why planning isn’t just about documents, it’s about protecting the people and family values that matter most.
Get a glimpse into Shanita Straw’s powerful story of resilience, faith, and purpose. This sneak peek into Silent Tears reveals the real struggles behind her breakthrough.
Get Your Questions Answered
Do you have a question you want to ask Shanita and Alexandrea? Or, tell us your story or dilemma for a chance to have it discussed on the podcast.
Disclaimer: Responses are for general informational and educational purposes only and is not legal advice. I understand that submitting a question, story or dilemma does not create an attorney-client relationship.