Episode 30: Placing a Monetary Value on the Loss of a "Good Life"

What constitutes a “good life,” and what happens when catastrophic events forever change its course? Karen Koehler reads an essay she wrote at 17 about what makes a good life and reflects on how her definition has evolved.

Mo Hamoudi shares a deeply personal story from his senior year of high school about basketball, a mother battling cancer, and an abusive stepfather. His account shows how early life experiences shape our understanding of others' suffering and the meaning of resilience.

Joined by Mike Todd, they explore how life's highs and lows influence what we value and how trial lawyers translate that into damages for clients whose lives have been permanently altered.

The discussion becomes a masterclass in advocacy, with Karen demonstrating how to channel a client's humanity in front of a jury and build a narrative arc that resonates on emotional, moral, and human levels. They unpack the role of life care plans, general damages, and authentic storytelling, and examine the balance between honoring resilience and acknowledging profound loss.

🎧 Stay Connected with The Velvet Hammer™ Podcast

Hosted by Karen Koehler and Mo Hamoudi, trial lawyers at Stritmatter Law, a nationally recognized plaintiff personal injury and civil rights law firm based in Washington State.

Produced by Mike Todd, Audio & Video Engineer, and Kassie Slugić, Executive Producer.

Watch full episodes on YouTube
Follow us on Instagram, TikTok & Facebook
📬 Questions or topic ideas? Email us at [email protected]

🔥 New episodes every Wednesday
Subscribe for bold takes, heartfelt moments, and the unfiltered reality of what it means to live and lead as a trial lawyer at Stritmatter Law.