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Maryland Council for Dispute Resolution

Summary of Mediator Roundtable on Zoom- October 12, 2026  - Zoom

Conversation Starter: Is it possible to make a living as a dispute resolution practitioner?

Attendees included a mix of experienced, successful mediators and newcomers to the field. 

Attendees: 13 people:

Roslyn Zinner (Organizer), Arnold Sampson, Kate Cullen, Antoinette Wright, Adi Abiose, Danette Watson, Debbie Seif, Harold Cohen, Thurman Rhodes, Pamela, Barry Evans, Robert H, Edie Guidice, Martin Kranitz.

Summary of Discussion:

Participants were asked to share an answer to “Where are you in your mediation journey?”when they introduced themselves. After introductions, the seasoned mediators present told their stories, including times their efforts failed and what they did to more than recover.  They shared the important role their mentors played, and provided a wealth of advice to new mediators about building a successful mediation practice. 

The group discussed the challenges of transitioning from volunteer or court-based work to a sustainable private practice. The experienced mediators shared ideas such as being persistent, networking, offering pro bono services to build a reputation, and developing a specific niche. They also discussed the reality of court rosters, the influence of cronyism, and the fact that many successful mediators maintain multiple income streams. The conversation touched on the importance of MCDR membership, the role of MACRO, and the value of mentorship and professional connections. and a general acknowledgment of the value of networking within the mediation community.  The discussion highlighted the challenges of breaking into court mediation panels, particularly for new mediators facing competition from retired judges and established legal professionals.

The group discussed strategies for building a mediation practice, including a suggestion to offer, for example, pro bono services to churches, non-profits, and homeowners associations, as a way to gain practical experience while not charging for services.The conversation ended with a summary of the key tips shared. 

Highlights from the contributions made by the Seasoned Mediators during the Mediator Roundtable

October  12, 2026

Arnold Sampson.described his work with various courts and organizations and shared his experiences applying for mediator positions, including being initially rejected by the real estate association but later being hired after reapplying under new leadership. He emphasized the importance of persistence and networking in finding mediation opportunities

Danette Watson discussed her experience running the Texas mediation industry and establishing the West Texas Community Mediation Center. Danette encouraged attendees to join MCDR, highlighting upcoming member-only benefits and a 20% discount on Thursday. She clarified the difference between training and certification, explaining that MCDR provides membership benefits for career development, while MACRO offers free observation opportunities for mediators.

Barry Evans, president of the MCDR Board of Directors, emphasized his focus on Baltimore City mediation and his vision for transformative change in the field.

Adi Abiose shared her recent retirement from the federal government and interest in transitioning to full-time mediation. 

Kate Cullen shared her journey into mediation, beginning with her training in 2000 at the University of Maryland Graduate School of Social Work. Kate built her mediation practice through networking and community engagement, including running free communication workshops and following up on referrals.  Kate shared strategies for staying active on court rosters, including networking with judges and ADR coordinators.

Martin Kranitz discussed the challenges of transitioning to a full-time mediation practice, sharing John Spiegel's successful case as an example of the time and effort needed and committing fully to the career change. 

Martin advised new mediators to develop specific niches, offer free presentations in community settings, and join professional organizations like MPME and MCDR. 

He explained that court rosters are currently not accepting many new mediators, particularly those without extensive experience, and noted that court administrators often prefer using established mediators from legal backgrounds despite the potential conflicts with mediation principles. 

Edie Guidice mediates in Montgomery County and DC,

Barry Evans emphasized that making a sustainable living as a mediator is challenging due to market competition, cronyism, and reduced government mediation opportunities, comparing it to the difficulty of making it to professional sports.

Harold Cohen and Edie Guidice shared tips from their many years  of experience. 

Additional Suggestions for New mediators from attendees


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