Becker & Poliakoff

Examining the Challenges Community Association Attorneys Face and the Corporate Responsibility Community Associations Shoulder with Marcia Narine Weldon, Law Professor

Examining the Challenges Community Association Attorneys Face and the Corporate Responsibility Community Associations Shoulder with Marcia Narine Weldon, Law Professor

For more episodes of Take It To The Board, click here!


This week, in Part I of a two-part series, Donna DiMaggio Berger and guest Marcia Narine Weldon, Harvard Law School graduate and University of Miami School of Law professor, explore the intricate intersection of corporate responsibility, consumer rights, and the increasing influence of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) factors in today’s dynamic business world. In this thought-provoking discussion, they address the challenges and pressures faced by community association lawyers, volunteer board members, and management professionals in an increasingly divisive environment.

Delving into the sphere of corporate activism, Donna and Marcia examine how companies adeptly navigate legal obligations and shed light on the often-overlooked impact of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). Furthermore, they critically assess the role of government in shaping business regulations and its significant effects on consumer rights. The conversation becomes even more fascinating as they navigate the delicate balance of corporate responsibility within private residential communities, emphasizing the paramount importance of transparency and active member involvement in decision-making processes.

In addition to corporate matters, they thoughtfully explore the concept of resilience, the transformative power of grit, and the intriguing possibility of birth order’s influence on individual success. Leveraging their personal experiences, Donna shares insightful perspectives on how stepping out of comfort zones aids in cultivating grit and building resilience. They also delve into whether generational differences may impact resilience. This engaging discussion is essential listening for those intrigued by human rights, corporate responsibility, and personal resilience.

Don’t miss out on this captivating and informative dialogue that offers invaluable insights for professionals and individuals interested in navigating the complexities of today’s business landscape while upholding ethical principles and fostering personal growth.

Conversation highlights include:

  • What are ‘human rights’ and how to properly use the term.
  • When companies fail to uphold high standards, what actions can consumers take?
  • How should volunteer boards navigate corporate governance in private residential communities?
  • Is it true that negative thoughts and stress don’t necessarily indicate unhappiness or poor health?
  • How negative thought behaviors can be detrimental to a person’s mental health.
  • What strategies can be employed to effectively challenge negative thoughts?
  • Does the legal profession attract unhappy individuals, or does it contribute to their unhappiness?
  • Does the competitive nature of law firm environments contribute to mental health challenges?
  • How can attorneys avoid absorbing the toxicity of their clients?
  • How to establish more reasonable expectations regarding the attorney-client relationship?
  • What are the different impacts of anxiety, stress, and depression?
  • What are some healthy ways to increase dopamine and serotonin levels?

BONUS: Learn whether loyalty in the attorney-client relationship exists and what to do when it disappears

About Take It To The Board

Think you know what community association life is all about? Think again. Residents must obey the rules, directors must follow the law, and managers must keep it all running smoothly. Take It To The Board explores the reality of life in a condominium, cooperative or homeowners’ association, what’s really involved in serving on its board, and how to maintain that ever-so-delicate balance of being legally compliant and community spirited. Leading community association attorney Donna DiMaggio Berger acknowledges the balancing act without losing her sense of humor as she talks with a variety of association leaders, experts, and vendors about the challenges and benefits of the community association lifestyle.

If you’ve got a question, Take It To The Board with Donna DiMaggio Berger – We Speak Condo & HOA!

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