Irnise Williams is a registered nurse, travel nurse, and practicing attorney.  Originally from Connecticut, Irnise attended Howard University for her undergraduate degree and nursing school, then worked as a trauma nurse.  Irnise was inspired to become a nurse after multiple positive interactions with the nurses who cared for her grandparents' nurses and seeing what an impact those nurses made.  

After living in Washington D.C. while the Affordable Care Act was being drafted and discussed, D.C. was abuzz with all things healthcare policy, and Irnise could not look the other way. 

With her background in nursing, Irnise wanted to explore the intersection of law and healthcare.  After weighing the options of an advanced degree in policy or a law degree, Irnise was certain that she would have more opportunities with a J.D.  

Irnise is passionate about maternal and reproductive rights and ensuring people understand what health care is and what it can be.  Irnise believes that when people understand what healthcare can be, they can advocate for themselves within the healthcare system.  Irnise Williams is the managing attorney of her own practice and continues to work as a travel nurse.

Irnise Williams is licensed in Maryland.  Connect with Irnise Williams on Instagram @yournurselawyer and through her website, IWilliamsLaw.com.

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Whitney Harvey worked for over a decade in personal injury law before becoming an entrepreneur and running her career coaching business. But unlike your typical lawyers, Whitney wants women lawyers to STAY in the law by considering different practice areas, editing their resumes, and improving their soft skills to create their own success.

This podcast is available on YouTube podcasts, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeartRadio, and more. You may also watch the episode on YouTube.

Welcome to the You Are A Lawyer podcast! Founded in 2020, this podcast promotes lawyers with side hustles, cool ambitions, and incredible career changes. Hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. 

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Whitney Harvey is licensed to practice law in Arizona. Connect with Whitney Harvey at theselfcoachedlawyer.com 

Ali Awad became a social media mogul and edutains (educates and entertainers) others about personal injury law and how to excel with social media.  After realizing that Ali Awad was a natural salesman, Ali Awad found that his authenticity and natural acting skills attracted millions of social media followers.  Now, Ali Awad teaches others to build a brand online and Ali Awad manages a multi-million dollar personal injury law practice.

Listen to learn:

• How to attract clients from social media
• The importance of having a hustler mentality
• How to build a business with nothing

We also discuss:

• Being Muslim and a lawyer
• How to get a job with your JD and interest in acting
• Why Ali Awad wants to have the biggest law firm in the United States
• The CEOLawyer Media Summit

Ali Awad is licensed to practice law in Georgia. Learn more about You Are A Lawyer guest Ali Awad:  

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ceolawyer/?hl=en

Website: https://ceolawyer.com

*

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh.  Follow the podcast:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Samora Legros sits on the Board of the Max Cadet Foundation, an organization created to celebrate his grandfather, a lawyer, judge, and dentist. Created with a dental clinic based in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, the Max Cadet Foundation serves children and adults living n Haiti by providing them with better dental care access.

Samoa Legros had the opportunity to work at a law firm during summers and breaks. As he took on more challenging tasks, he succeeded and received more responsibility. Given his grandmother's age, Samora knew that his analytical skills and empathy would make him a wonderful lawyer. After graduating in 2007, Samoa worked full-time at the law firm and had another striking experience in law. He worked with a client facing eviction who could not work and needed guidance and mentorship. Recognizing the potential of the sword and shield, he understood how the law and policy could be used to assist and protect people.

Samoa Legros highlights the significance of classes like trial advocacy, mediation, and effective communication in advocating for others. Professor Alvin Washington's teaching and problem analysis skills have empowered Samoa to confidently discuss and address the root causes of problems, enabling effective solutions, particularly in cases where individuals require urgent medical procedures.

Connect with Samora Legros

Samora Legros is not licensed to practice law. Connect with Samora Legros at slegros123@gmail.com

Engage with the Max Cadet Foundation at www.cadetdentalfund.com.

Grab the book, A Long Walk Home, mentioned in the podcast: https://amzn.to/42K4z5b

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Lawyers know other lawyers. The power of lawyer referrals is one of the strongest ways to find clients, but lawyers don't understand the practice. Kisha Brown created Justis Connection as a database of Black lawyers. As a Justis Connection member, a lawyer may offer their legal services to clients. As someone looking for legal representation, Justis Connection is a database of Black lawyers specializing in everything from bankruptcy to fertility to criminal law matters. 

Kisha Brown explains how Justis Connection highlights Black lawyers and is the largest referral network in the D.C., Maryland, and Virginia area.

In this episode, Kisha Brown, a Georgetown University Law Center graduate, explains her passion for civil rights and why she wants black lawyers to be prominent in the legal practice.

After being asked repeatedly if she knew a lawyer who did this, that or the other thing, Kisha Brown created Justis Connection to make it easier for Black lawyers to find clients and share their services with the community.  Finding that Black lawyers had to work twice as hard to build a book of business, whether the lawyer was in an established firm or private practice, Kisha solved the problem of how to refer lawyers to the community.  Justis Connection is a digital green book of lawyers.

After Kisha Brown worked at Cravath, Swain, and Moore as a paralegal and practiced in Baltimore, working with non-custodial parents and advocating for fair child support, Kisha saw the great need for a legal network in the “DMV” (D.C., Maryland, and Virginia).  Kisha saw the law as an avenue to pursue her passions and know what the law says, use it, yield the law, and craft the law to assist others.

Although Justis Connection was initially created to spotlight Black lawyers, this company is a networking and referral service for all clients. Kisha hires interns to work with Justis Connection, where she can mentor them and teach them soft skills about timeliness, communications and how to become a better writer.  In the future, Kisha Brown expects Justis Connection to be the premier referral resource in the country.

Kisha Brown is licensed in Maryland.  Connect with Kisha Brown on Instagram @JustisConnection, Facebook “JustisConnection”, LinkedIn and Twitter @JustisConnect.

Misty Leon didn’t know that employee benefits law existed, but the practice perfectly suited her interests and skills. This specialty law practice allowed Misty to work for 19 years in private practice before moving in-house and working with Texas Instruments. 

Misty Leon's Background
As a first-generation lawyer, Misty didn’t have much experience with lawyers and what they did daily, but she knew she wanted to study law. 

During her 1L summer, Misty worked with a plaintiff litigation attorney specializing in disability benefits and ERISA. This internship was Misty's introduction to benefits law, but Misty wanted to avoid the litigation area. Misty was quickly recognized as a unicorn in this practice area because she enjoyed researching statutes, federal policy, and compliance. 

Misty is collaborating with partners, and benefit plans, remaining vigilant about new laws and policies and how they impact benefits. 

What You Can Do With Your Law Degree

Misty worked in private practice for 19 years before she began working in-house with Texas Instruments. Unlike most in-house legal jobs, Misty Leon works with various departments within Texas Instruments to ensure the company follows all federal and state benefit guidelines.

Misty considers her coworkers as internal clients because she is consulting with different departments and directors who would need guidance. As a team one, Misty is the only employee benefits lawyer at Texas Instruments, but Misty works as a consultant with various departments. Misty’s days are spent interacting with “internal clients” people in human resources and the legal departments because of her experience with HIPAA and experience from almost two decades in private practice.

Contact Misty Leon

Misty Leon is licensed to practice law in Texas, Virginia, and D.C. 
Learn more about Misty Leon:  

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/misty-a-leon

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Know any cool, courageous, or fun lawyers? Celebrate them with a gift! Visit SHOPyouarealawyer.com to buy a t-shirt, water bottle, or sweatshirt to celebrate the law graduate in your life. 

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Krista Lynn Russell wears many hats: lawyer, mom, general counsel, wife, bonus mom, blogger, paid speaker and recovering superwoman. In this episode, Krist explains the power in admitting that she doesn't know it all and why lawyers should lean into the power of delegating. 

As the creator and blogger of “Recovering Superwoman,” Krista advocates for others who have faced any adversity in their lives.

Recovering Superwoman is a blog that was originally started from Krista’s personal journal, where Krista discovered that there was strength in not having to do everything herself.  People resonated with the vulnerability and authenticity of Krista’s, which has led to Krista being a public speaker and coach.

As the Deputy General Counsel for Airbus OneWeb, Krista does not believe that law school prepared her to be an in-house lawyer.  The pleading drafting, legal research, and archaic property law ideals did not serve her well as a business lawyer, even though Krista took a lot from her law school experience.

Krista Lynn was persistent that she would not become a lawyer, until she became competitive with her college boyfriend while he studied for the LSAT.  That experience coupled with Krista’s passion for business led Krista to attend law school.  Krista began and left law school knowing that she wanted to be a business lawyer and work in-house at a corporation or organization.  Krista knew what she wanted to do and she took a different path to get there.

As a mother, Krista finds that although her days are busy, she is immensely proud of her family and the strength they’ve exerted when tested.  Krista has removed the necessity to perform for coworkers, family members, her children, parents, etc. Although Krista believes that she can do anything, Krista learned that she doesn't have to handle everything herself.  

Krista Lynn is licensed in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, D.C. and Florida.  Connect with Krista on her blog, recoveringsuperwoman.com.

Join the FREE mailing list! Get behind-the-scenes content from You Are A Lawyer. 

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Ready to clear your to-do list? Skip the boring stuff and stop editing your podcast, uploading content at the last minute, and sitting on content. Work with KD Creative to hire a podcast manager so you can create faster and skip the boring stuff. Visit skiptheboringstuff.com for more details. 

You’re the talent! Go back to recording and skip the boring stuff. 

About the Episode

You Are A Lawyer helps new lawyers and law students discover non-traditional and unique jobs, career changes, and interests. Kyla Denanyoh began You Are A Lawyer in April 2020, and this bonus episode commemorates three years of hard work, fun, and meeting new lawyers. 

Podcasting has awakened an entrepreneurial spirit in Kyla Denanyoh. Out of fear that she would stop podcasting at the dreaded seven-episode challenge, Kyla recorded eight episodes before launching You Are A Lawyer. Now, 85 interviews and three years later, podcasting has turned Kyla into an entrepreneur. 

In addition to offering sponsorship opportunities on the podcast episodes, Kyla created KD Creative LLC, an agency that helps small business owners launch podcasts and expand brand visibility through podcasting. Most businesses are looking for new marketing channels and podcasting is the channel or choice for Kyla Denanyoh. 

Kyla has also created Skip The Boring Stuff, a division of KD Creative LLC featuring podcast managers who will edit, upload, schedule, write show notes, manage guest communications, and be your #1 podcasting cheerleader.

Join the FREE mailing list!

Get behind-the-scenes content from You Are A Lawyer. 

1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com

2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR

3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen

4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!

Connect with Kyla Denanyoh
Kyla Denanyoh is not licensed to practice law and loves being a lawyer. Learn more about Kyla Denanyoh:  

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@youarealawyer

Website:https://www.kyladenanyoh.com

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE THESE EPISODES:

FAQs about Podcasting and Guest Bookings featuring Kyla Denanyoh:

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How To Budget Like a Lawyer and Become Financially Free featuring Rho Thomas: https://www.youarealawyer.com/posts/www-youarealawyer-com-posts-rho-thomas-money-coach-and-lawyer

Why I Withdrew from the Bar Exam After Being Bullied into Retaking It featuring Kate Dwyer

https://www.youarealawyer.com/posts/why-i-withdrew-from-the-bar-exam-after-being-bullied-into-retaking-it-featuring-kate-dwyer

Sara Ellis, a Lawyers Depression Project board member and social work student, explains why the legal community must create better messaging and more empathy for mental health issues. 

After attending law school at the University of Tennesee, Sara thought it was a natural progression to earn her Master’s Degree at the University of Tennessee. Because Sara enjoyed her copyright course while an undergrad, she wanted to continue focusing on musicians and working in IP law. Sara practiced music copyright litigation for ten years and left this practice because of the long work hours, which often included working all seven days a week. 

Founded in 2019, the Lawyers Depression Project is a peer support group for legal professionals. Sara Ellis discovered the project in 2022 and began working with the project as a board member and later joined the executive committee. 

“Lawyers, judges, paralegals, legal admins, if you’re in the legal space, the Lawyers Depression Project can provide support. And it’s not just about depression,” explains Sara Ellis. 

The Lawyers Depression Project offers a safe space for legal professionals to gain resources and share their mental health issues. Sara explains that many lawyers were expected to deal with and never mention issues, but the conversation is becoming more visible and inclusive.

LISTEN TO LEARN

• Leaving an IP litigation role to become a social worker
• Free resources for every member of the legal community: lawyers, judges, law office staff, paralegals, and law administrators
• How to protect your mental health

WE ALSO DISCUSS

• Why the Lawyers Depression Project was created
• Moving to South Florida as a graduate student
• Music business undergrad degrees and copyright law

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Get behind-the-scenes content about You Are A Lawyer. 

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Connect with Sara Ellis

Sara Ellis is licensed to practice law in Tennessee. Learn more about Sara Ellis:  

Lawyers Depression Project: www.lawyersdepressionproject.org

Sara’s work with the Lawyers Depression Project: https://www.lawyersdepressionproject.org/515-2/

Interact with You Are A Lawyer

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@youarealawyer

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

After working in entrepreneurial finance and Big Law for over 20 years, Becky Morrison asked herself what would make her truly happy.  Becky worked as a litigator before moving into a management role where she oversaw attorneys, litigation support staff, and non-attorney professionals.  This role reminded Becky that she really enjoyed managing people.

During a time of transition, Becky worked with a career coach to narrow down her interests. Her experiences with this coach motivated Becky to become an executive coach. Becky is adamant that coaching is not being a therapist but analyzing in a similar way that a lawyer would review facts.

Becky's skills honed in law school, such as analyzing case law, researching, and issue spotting, were a wonderful foundation for working as an executive coach.  In this role, Becky works with legal and non-legal professionals to bring ideas to action, focus on a participant's life, and address work-life integration issues.  Becky teaches her coaching participants that life is more than chasing the next thing.

Currently earning an LLM in taxation, Becky finds that being a law school graduate makes her confident in creating Grantley Coaching and becoming an entrepreneur because her legal background offers her familiarity with business formation activities.

Becky Morrison is licensed in Virginia and Washington D.C.

Join the FREE mailing list! Get behind-the-scenes content from You Are A Lawyer. 

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What Can You Do With a Law Degree? 

Joshua Schwadron became a legal tech founder and CEO because he wanted to improve the lives of people affected by accidents. Traditionally personal injury law firms are all about settling a case and minimal client involvement while they work on the issues. Mighty develops products that will aid the client, like interest-free friends and family loans, which allow the client to get money to handle their bills without dealing with that issue themselves and adding chaos to a relationship. 

While Joshua Schwadron believes that many areas of law will be impacted by technology, students can find ways to make technology work within the practice group and “be happy and make a lot of money.” 

A law degree will take you anywhere. While Josh sees the impact of his law degree in his life, he cautions students to think about why they are going to law school before they take the giant leap because of the exorbitant costs of legal education.

Lawyer Side Hustles

Josh used his law degree to become the CEO of Mighty, which was created to benefit accident victims and bring equity to the personal injury and insurance industry.

Mighty is concerned with:

• How the consumer is feeling
• Is the consumer able to pay their bills? 
• Has the client’s car been fixed? 
• How can mighty help you get back to your new normal?

Mighty is a nationwide service that allows accident victims to get better service. If you live in a smaller or remote area, Mighty can refer you to someone who can assist you after your accident.

‍
Join the FREE mailing list! 

Get behind-the-scenes content from Kyla.

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2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR

3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen

4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!

Contact Joshua Schwadron

Joshua Schwadron is licensed to practice law in New York, New Jersey, and Florida. 

Learn more about Mighty: www.mighty.com

Read more about Joshua Schwadron here

Connect with Mighty Law: www.mightylaw.com

Review Kyla’s favorite books here: https://amzn.to/3OTfrrZ As an Amazon Associate, I may earn from qualifying purchases. 

‍

Engage with You Are a Lawyer

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_eB5OebHvATnld4TFekX1g

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

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From Software Developer to Lawyer to IT Director featuring Devin Zito

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Brandi Mowles teaches entrepreneurs to organize their businesses and streamline their onboarding processes to ensure that clients are impressed, retained, and know what to expect. Whether you manage a podcast, YouTube channel, or virtual assistant company, Brandi Mowles has trainings to get your books in order. 

Brandi Mowles transitioned from working in sales to founding a multi-million dollar business. She uses her experiences and knowledge to mentor other business owners and assist them in stabilizing their businesses. 

What Can You Do With a Law Degree? 

Brandi Mowles explains that law school instructed her on owning a business, business formation, and contracts. But everything about scaling businesses and running a million-dollar business was learned through hard work and mistakes. 

Lawyer Side Hustles

Brandi Mowles created Serve Scale Soar, an education and marketing business to assist other entrepreneurs in succeeding. Early in her career, Brandi tried to find ways to earn money while staying home with her daughter. Branid tried Pinterest ads but didn't stick with them. Brandi looked at blogging, but that didn't last.

Side Hustle Turned Main Hustle
Slowly Brandi started running Facebook ads and found great success with them. The confidence from being successful with Facebook led Brandi to look at Instagram ads. Soon, Brandi's ad strategy business made more than $400,000 yearly, AND Brandi was enjoying the work. Most fascinating is that Brandi used her experience to train others to scale their businesses. 

Brandi Mowles hosts the podcast, Serve Scale Soar, where Brandi makes it easy for freelancers and business owners to scale their businesses. The one thing that freelancers need is more time to research, find, and decide what information is valuable or useless for their business. Brandi Mowles shares information, systems, marketing, and how to choose a client. These lessons are mandatory listening and will inspire any freelancer or entrepreneur to tune in. 

Join the FREE mailing list! 
Get behind-the-scenes content from Kyla.

1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com

2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR

3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen

4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!

Brandi Mowles is not licensed to practice law. Learn more about Brandi Mowles:

Website: https://brandimowles.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandimowles/
Watch Brandi Mowles discuss Serve Scale Soar: https://youtu.be/FNU61Uilg-4

Listen to Serve Scale Soar with Brandi Mowles on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Grab Kyla's favorite books here: https://amzn.to/3FpCo2K

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​​Why I Withdrew from the Bar Exam After Being Bullied into Retaking It featuring Kate Dwyer

Superwoman is a Myth! Why Asking for Help Made Me a Better Lawyer featuring Krista Lynn

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Michael (Mike) Chastaine is a criminal defense lawyer in New Mexico, US, and believes lawyers are notoriously bad at estimating how long it takes them to complete a task. In fact, Mike is a business consultant for law firms because he knows lawyers are bad at getting client feedback and often complete tasks that should be delegated. 

Get a copy of Mike Chastaine’s bool, LegalEase: https://amzn.to/3ymEXhV

Get apparel for your next event or race: https://barkingfrogs.me/shop/

‍Watch Kyla’s Book Reviews: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_eB5OebHvATnld4TFekX1g

Join the FREE mailing list!

Get behind-the-scenes content from Kyla. 

1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com

2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR

3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen

4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!

Laurie Pascoe practiced law for 40 years while writing more than 50 law articles and working with countless clients. Laurie’s current passion is inspiring lawyers to innovate their law practices with legal service applications. In this episode, Laurie explains the value of thinking like a client and learning to analyze everything.

Advertiser: Journey and Practice offers The Heart-Centered Lawyers Membership, a community of law students, grads, and lawyers who participate in self-care activities to improve their legal journey and practice. Visit https://journeyandpractice.com/services and enroll with code "podcast" for a special rate.

Lawrence “Laurie” Pascoe wanted to be a dentist for a long time. His family was full of doctors, dentists, and nurses, so working in medicine seemed like a natural fit for Laurie until Laurie took a business course in undergraduate school, where he became deeply interested in how the law touched every aspect of life. 

Why Law School?

Laurie Pascoe attended the Schulich School of Law at Dalhousie University. After living in Halifax, Nova Scotia, and meeting his wife, Laurie moved to Ottawa with plans to move back to Halifax, but “the rest is history.” Laurie and a law school classmate opened a law firm in Ottawa and thrived in their legal profession for 40 years.

When a client works with Laurie, they will ‘Discover the Pascoe Way,’ which was the slogan of Laurie’s law firm. Lawyers frequently communicate with clients and focus on the three most important periods of working with a client:

1. Before the client signs a retainer,
2. During the attorney-client relationship, and
3. After services are completed. 

How to Think Like a Client
There is no time when a client’s opinion or experience should not be sought out or considered. From finding out where the client found Laurie (15-25% of Laurie’s clients found him from the website) or determining what Laurie could do to improve his legal services.

Laurie believes that the best lawyers know the “think like a client.” Laurie continues to explain that clients do not care about fancy offices or the famous pictures on the walls, except to wonder if they are paying for those furnishings. Clients are concerned with results; anything else is added for the lawyer’s benefit.

Lawyers have Cool Interests 

Laurie Pascoe is the author of Innovative Legal Services Applications: A Guide to Improved Client Services. Laurie defines legal service applications as any physical item or file that helps you better serve the client. Multiple computer monitors, manuals, receiving client feedback, etc., is a legal service application. The benefits of legal service applications began as marketing tools.  

Laurie Pascoe is licensed to practice law in Canada. Buy a copy of Laurie’s book: bit.ly/3ya2oup Use code ILSAGICS23 to save 25% off the purchase of the book. 

Join the FREE mailing list!

Get behind-the-scenes content from Kyla. 

1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com

2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR

3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen

4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!

Engage with You Are a Lawyer

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_eB5OebHvATnld4TFekX1g

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Notes and Links
Buy a copy of Laurie’s book, Innovative Legal Service Applications here: bit.ly/3ya2oup

Use code ILSAGICS23 to save 25% off the purchase of the book

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Review Kyla’s favorite books here: https://amzn.to/3OTfrrZ

Advertiser: Journey and Practice offers The Heart-Centered Lawyers Membership, a community of law students, grads, and lawyers who participate in self-care activities to improve their legal journey and practice. Visit https://journeyandpractice.com/services and enroll with code "podcast" for a special rate.

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How To Protect Your Legacy (and Assets) featuring Scott Rahn:

https://www.youarealawyer.com/posts/how-to-protect-your-legacy-and-assets-featuring-scott-rahn

How Technology is Changing Law Firms (and Why Lawyers Don’t Know It Yet) featuring Maya Markovich: https://www.youarealawyer.com/posts/how-technology-is-changing-law-firms-and-why-lawyers-dont-know-it-yet-featuring-maya-markovich

Why People Avoid Estate Planning (and How Lawyers Can Change This) featuring Justin Stivers: https://www.youarealawyer.com/posts/why-people-avoid-estate-planning-and-how-lawyers-can-change-this-featuring-justin-stivers

At 17 years old, Christine Job said she would live abroad in Spain. And she made it happen. After traveling to numerous countries, Christina made a home in Spain five years ago. She teaches women of color to build businesses abroad to sustain their travels and hosts the Flourish in the Foreign podcast.

Christine Job's Background

Christine Job studied business as an undergrad but needed help figuring out where to use her experience. The economy was terrible in 2009, and Christine needed a job that utilized her new college degree. So Christine took a gap year before she attended law school in Miami. But life outside of law school significantly impacted Christine: Christine she fought for job opportunities, negotiated and split the summer interning in two roles, worked with an entrepreneurial incubator and spent a few months with a startup. Not too bad for someone who didn't want to attend her law school graduation.

What Can You Do With a Law Degree? 

As a 1L student, Christine began working as a business consultant and strategist. With her book knowledge from undergrad and advocacy skills from life, Christine met with young entrepreneurs. She helped them identify business models and deal with the stresses of entrepreneurship.

Lawyer Side Hustles

Christine Job believed in being professionally fulfilled and financially well. When she created a home in Valencia, Spain, Christine revived her business strategy and consultancy to encourage her professional fulfillment. Every day, Christine used her experience and passion for building a business abroad and assisting women of color in becoming entrepreneurs.

Additionally, Christine exercises her creativity as the host of the Flourish in the Foreign podcast. On this podcast, Christine speaks with women of color who live abroad and discusses their challenges, successes, and regularness (i.e., taking out the trash and buying groceries) internationally. 

Christine Job is not licensed to practice law in the United States or Spain. Learn more about Christine Job:  

Website: https://christinejob.com/contact

Books and Resources: https://www.flourishintheforeign.com/resources

Flourish in the Foreign Podcast: https://www.flourishintheforeign.com/episodes

Build a Business Abroad Guide: https://www.flourishintheforeign.com/resources

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You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_eB5OebHvATnld4TFekX1g

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Review Kyla's favorite books here: https://amzn.to/3OTfrrZ

Find resources to help you move and work abroad: https://www.flourishintheforeign.com/resources

Probate lawyers discover the legacy a loved one intended and how to implement that legacy most fairly. Scott Rahn meets clients during emotional and stressful times, but Scott’s zealous efficacy allows him to leave his clients in a better position regarding their loved one’s estates.

Advertiser: Journey and Practice offers The Heart-Centered Lawyers Membership, a community of law students, grads, and lawyers who participate in self-care activities to improve their legal journey and practice. Visit https://journeyandpractice.com/services and enroll with code "podcast" for a special rate.

Scott Rahn's Background

Scott Rahn attended undergrad in his home state of Wisconsin. Still, Scott has yet to make plans to leave sunny California. Although Scott wanted to become a mergers and acquisition lawyer, Scott discovered that he enjoyed probate litigation. Scott Rahn founded RMO Probate Litigation, a nationwide estate litigation firm.  

Are Nice Lawyers Successful?
Scott did not have to become some loud-talking, arrogant jerk, as most litigators are portrayed, to get results for his clients. Scott Rahn explains that when you work with jerk lawyers, you will pay more and get slower results when clients want to have their problems handled promptly for the least amount of money. You do not need a shark lawyer to receive results.

Lawyer Side Hustles
After practicing probate litigation for a few years while working for others, Scott Rahn decided to open his law firm, RMO Probate Litigation. RMO has grown and opened five offices nationwide.

Probate law eventually touches every person's life, which is one of the challenges of probate law. Typical scenarios are when someone you know dies if you create a will or trust for yourself. When Scott Rahn became interested in probate litigation, Scott knew that he was ready to help people. 

Join the FREE mailing list!

Get behind-the-scenes content from Kyla. 

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LINKS AND THINGS
Advertiser: Journey and Practice offers The Heart-Centered Lawyers Membership, a community of law students, grads, and lawyers who participate in self-care activities to improve their legal journey and practice. Visit https://journeyandpractice.com/services and enroll with code "podcast" for a special rate.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE THESE EPISODES

Why People Avoid Estate Planning (and How Lawyers Can Change This) featuring Justin Stivers: https://www.youarealawyer.com/posts/why-people-avoid-estate-planning-and-how-lawyers-can-change-this-featuring-justin-stivers

How To Budget Like a Lawyer and Become Financially Free featuring Rho Thomas: https://www.youarealawyer.com/posts/www-youarealawyer-com-posts-rho-thomas-money-coach-and-lawyer

How Sales Funnels are Changing the Legal Industry featuring Sam Mollaei

VIDEO TIMESTAMPS

00:00 - INTRO

00:20 - WELCOME SCOTT RAHN

00:29 - SCOTT’S BACKGROUND

01:20 - MIDWEST LIFE & SPORTS

02:30 - PROBATE LAW AFFECTS EVERYONE

03:30 - INNOVATE PROBATE LAW

07:10 - NATIONWIDE PROBATE LITIGATORS

08:02 - PROBATE LAW & PANDEMIC

09:22 - TRUST ACCOUNTS: PRO & CON

12:37 - YOU ARE A LAWYER PODCAST

12:50 - LAW SCHOOL EXPERIENCE

15:12 - ZEALOUS EFFICACY

17:30 - PREPARE FOR LITIGATION

19:03 - DAY IN THE LIFE

22:34 - POWER OF PROBATE LAW 

23:44 - ADVICE FOR NEW LAWYERS

25:30 - OUTRO

Thanks for watching the You Are A Lawyer podcast! New episodes released every Thursday

Nick Troxel believes that you can do anything with your legal education if you are willing to work hard. Hard work and sacrifice will allow you to reach your goals, but you must first establish your goals.

In April 2022, Nick bet the Philadelphia Eagles would win Super Bowl LVII. On Sunday, February 11, 2023, the Philadephia Eagles are playing in the Super Bowl, and Nick is traveling to attend the game with his father. This is an example of why flexibility is a big perk to any business owner!

Nick Troxel is not afraid of hard work. When he co-founded the law firm, Troxel Fitch, LLC, he worked as a ride-share driver. Yep, you know the ones. Nick would drive people around to earn money and take that earned money to build his law firm. Nick mentioned eating ramen noodles and many canned foods because every dollar needed to be managed well and used to contribute to their law firm.

Get a copy of How To Be A Lawyer featuring Nick Troxel and Joshua Fitch: https://amzn.to/3XfXYfQ

NOTE: This was the first time that Kyla Denanyoh recorded an interview and turned it around in less than 24 hours. To learn more or create your own podcast, visit www.kyladenanyoh.com

Contact Nick Troxel

Nick Troxel is licensed to practice law in Colorado. Learn more about Nick Troxel:

www.troxelfitchlaw.com

Engage with You Are a Lawyer

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_eB5OebHvATnld4TFekX1g

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Join the FREE mailing list!

Get behind-the-scenes content from Kyla. 

1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com

2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR

3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen

4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!

EPISODE TIMESTAMPS

00:00 - INTRO

00:17 - NICK TROXEL

00:41 - SUPER BOWL TRIP

01:02 - ENTREPRENEUR FLEXIBILITY

02:08 - LAW SCHOOL ADMITTANCE

03:19 - TROXEL FITCH FOUNDERS' STORY

05:44 - LAW FIRM TIMELINE

08:08 - GOLDEN HANDCUFFS DISCUSSION

11:31 - WHY INTERESTED IN BUSINESS

13:31 - ADVICE FOR LAW STUDENTS/LAWYERS

15:17 - HOW TO SET GOALS

16:43 - OUTRO

Debra Whitson is a former prosecutor who opened a family law practice to improve the lives and relationships of others. Debra is the founder of a family law firm and a nationwide virtual mediation database.

Debra Whitson's Background
Debra Whitson always knew that she would be a lawyer. When she was 14 years old, a hometown tragedy made her begin thinking about the legal system and how she could impact the system. 

Lawyer Side Hustles
Debra spent half of her legal career working in family law and dealing with divorces, mediation, prenups, etc. These experiences led Debra to write the book, Divorce Like a Pro, where she teaches the reader to divorce with civility and acknowledge how their actions will affect their families. 

Debra explains how every state has its own regulations about alternative dispute resolution and that if it is not an option, Debra hopes that mediation can be an option for couples who are dealing with family issues or contemplating divorce. 

You May Watch this Interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/s7_gur1TTBI

Buy a copy of Debra Whitson’s book, Divorce Like a Pro: https://amzn.to/3x2Uv9X

Join the FREE mailing list!

Get behind-the-scenes content from Kyla. 

1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com

2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR

3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen

4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE THESE EPISODES

How to Divorce in a Better Way featuring Susan Guthrie: https://www.youarealawyer.com/posts/www-youarealawyer-com-posts-susan-guthrie-learn-to-mediate-online-founder-and-lawyer

How to Have an Amicable Divorce featuring Nicole Kobis:

https://www.youarealawyer.com/posts/how-to-have-an-amicable-divorce-featuring-nicole-kobis

Superwoman is a Myth! Why Asking for Help Made Me a Better Lawyer featuring Krista Lynn:

https://www.youarealawyer.com/posts/superwoman-is-a-myth-why-asking-for-help-made-me-a-better-lawyer-featuring-krista-lynn

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Review Kyla’s favorite books here: https://amzn.to/3OTfrrZ

Episode Timestamps

00:00 - INTRO

00:45 - WELCOME TO YOU ARE A LAWYER 

00:35 - DEBRA WHITSON’S CAREER

01:23 - WHY LAW SCHOOL?

02:58 - DEBRA’S EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

03:43 - SALES AND LAW SCHOOL

05:19 - CRIM LAW TO FAMILY LAW

06:30 - DIVORCE LIKE A PRO

09:45 - MEDITATION IS BENEFICIAL

12:05 - HAVE AN AMICABLE DIVORCE

14:34 - MEDIATION AND COVID

15:15 - YOU ARE A LAWYER PODCAST

15:45 - ZONTA INTERNATIONAL

17:15 - TRAVEL ELIMINATES PREJUDICES

19:08 - ADVICE FOR LAWYERS

21:10 - OUTRO

Cara Davis Little works in employment policy during the day, and plans weddings and podcasts during her free time. In Episode 74, find out how Cara created a career she loves because while Cara can do A LOT, she cannot do it all.

Advertiser: Journey and Practice offers The Heart-Centered Lawyers Membership, a community of law students, grads, and lawyers who participate in self-care activities to improve their legal journey and practice. Visit https://journeyandpractice.com/services and enroll with code "podcast" for a special rate.

Cara Davis Little’s Background

Cara Davis Little initially went to law school to become a civil rights lawyer. After working in BigLaw (and hating it) Cara decided to work in the public sector. When Cara left BigLaw and began working in the public sector, specifically in employment relations law, Cara began to thrive. 

Lawyer Side Hustles

Cara Davis Little was a host of the podcast Millennial Lov3: Sex, Love and I'm Selfish AF! and the first podcaster that Kyla knew. But also, Cara was a young, Black woman who bought a microphone and had the audacity to be vulnerable with the world. Podcasts were still new in 2017 and until the final episode in 2019, the podcast was enjoyed and loved by every millennial who laughed, danced, and understood the podcast.

After planning her own wedding in 2019, Cara missed the organization, planning, and logistics skills needed to plan a wedding. Cara knew that she wanted to take her organization skills and creativity into a new route, so she opened Wimberly & Co. Although Wimberly & Co. is based in Maryland, Cara Davis Little offers wedding planning nationwide, depending on her schedule and the client's needs.

What Can I Do With My Law Degree?

Even though her first jobs out of law school were traditional, boring, high-paying roles, Cara Davis Little is adamant that money is nothing more than a tool. You are not LUCKY to have a job! There is a lot of pressure on first-generation lawyers, like Cara, to be an example for their families or to feel “lucky” to have a job and earn so much money. However, your career (and where you spend a lot of your time) is worth more than a check. Cara believes you should explore your interests before law school and create a career and life that you love… even if that means wedding planning. 

You May Watch this Interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/UV_q2Xzpvhc

Join the FREE mailing list!

Get behind-the-scenes content from Kyla. 

1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com

2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR

3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen

4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE THESE EPISODES

Superwoman is a Myth! Why Asking for Help Made Me a Better Lawyer featuring Krista Lynn:

https://www.youarealawyer.com/posts/superwoman-is-a-myth-why-asking-for-help-made-me-a-better-lawyer-featuring-krista-lynn

From Lawyer to Hobbyist to Full Time Sculptor featuring Nathan Sawaya: https://www.youarealawyer.com/posts/from-lawyer-and-hobbyist-to-full-time-sculptor-featuring-nathan-sawaya

How Philanthropic Giving Promotes Diversity and Opportunity in Higher Ed featuring Jera Oliver: https://www.youarealawyer.com/posts/how-philanthropic-giving-promotes-diversity-and-opportunity-in-higher-ed-featuring-jera-oliver

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Review Kyla’s favorite books here: https://amzn.to/3OTfrrZ

Episode Timestamps

00:00 - INTRO

00:23 - Welcome to You Are A Lawyer

01:09 - Kyla and Cara’s Friendship

03:02 - Work From Home

03:50 - What is Employment Policy Law?

06:00 - Cara is a Wedding Planner

08:30 - Wedding Planner Bootcamp 

09:50 - Is wedding planning back after the pandemic?

10:20 - Challenges of parenthood and working

11:28 - Why is the business called Wimberly & Co.?

12:57 - Entrepreneurship offers flexibility

14:27 - Motherhood and Changing Perspectives

17:11 - Journey & Practice Advertisement

17:35 - Millennial Lov3 Podcast

18:50 - Why did Cara host a podcast?

22:35 - Hue I Do podcast

24:09 - Cara is a podcast expert

25:28 - Law School Taught Confidence & Perseverance

27:18 - Out-of-State Law Student Challenges

29:11 - Shout out to Southern University Law Center

30:08 - Law School right after college?

30:37 - Advice for law students or new lawyers?

32:34 - Money is a tool

33:02 - Formula for a Happy Career

34:38 - Thanks for listening to You Are A Lawyer

35:26 - OUTRO

Thanks for Listening!

Dena Lefkowitz was unhappy working in litigation so she changed firms a few times, before realizing that she needed to get away from this type of practice. Having a more reasonable work life has more of an impact on you than having a ton of money. It took Dena a few years to realize that free time was important and to look towards in-house positions so that she could spend her time how she wanted. 

Dena was a lawyer by day and a career coach, thought expert at night for six years. Dena was on a great trajectory, where the only way that she could continue to serve her clients was to leave her full time job. Dena took her side hustle and transitioned it into a full career and founded a career coaching business called Achievement By Design, LLC. As a coach, Dena helps people find careers that respect their values, preferences, and motives. Dena credits her time attending the Michael Baime Eight Week Mindfulness Retreat and working with a career counselor as showing her that she could work in a field that she enjoyed and be financially stable.

Dena Lefkowitz is also the author of Winning In Your Own Court, a book that encourages people to create a successful career without burnout or selling out. This book is a valuable resource for anyone who is interested in changing careers, but unable to work with a career coach. With chapters entitled, Curate Your Career and Honing Your Soft Skills, Dena offers her wisdom and experience as a career coach to the reader. 

You May Watch this Interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/x-c2PdgE1Lg

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE THESE EPISODES

Superwoman is a Myth! Why Asking for Help Made Me a Better Lawyer featuring Krista Lynn:

https://www.youarealawyer.com/posts/superwoman-is-a-myth-why-asking-for-help-made-me-a-better-lawyer-featuring-krista-lynn

How To Increase Your Value with Non-Linear Career Moves featuring Jaya Saxena:

https://www.youarealawyer.com/posts/how-to-increase-your-value-with-non-linear-career-moves-featuring-jaya-saxena

Learn to Monetize Your Passions as a Travel Blogger:

https://www.youarealawyer.com/posts/learn-to-monetize-your-passions-as-a-travel-blogger-featuring-francesca-chang

Join the FREE mailing list!

Get behind-the-scenes content from Kyla. 

1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com

2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR

3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen

4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!

Links and Notes

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Get your copy of Winning In Your Own Court by Dena Lefkowitz: https://amzn.to/3iLuZCg

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Review Kyla’s favorite books here: https://amzn.to/3OTfrrZ

Episode Timestamps

00:00 - PODCAST INTRO

01:03 - WELCOME TO YOU ARE A LAWYER 

00:33 - DENA’S BACKGROUND 

04:01 - LITIGATORS ARE ASSERTIVE

04:57 - ACHIEVEMENT BY DESIGN

05:27 - LEARN DIRECTNESS FROM LAW SCHOOL?

06:46 - TYPICAL DAY AS GENERAL COUNSEL

08:17 - UNDERPAID BUT HAPPY

09:22 - BIG LAW VS IN-HOUSE

10:54 - HIRED A CAREER COACH

11:30 - JOURNEY & PRACTICE AD

12:04 - PERMISSION TO CHANGE CAREERS

14:16 - ORIGIN STORY OF YOU ARE A LAWYER

16:27 - DESPERATION LED TO HIRING CAREER COACH

16:43 - ENJOYED WORKING WITH COACH

18:34 - LAWYER SIDE HUSTLE

19:13 - SALARY CHANGES

20:27 - MOTIVES & VALUES

21:55 - WINNING IN YOUR OWN COURT

25:00 - AVOID DERAILING YOUR CAREER

26:28 - NEVER TOO LATE TO CHANGE CAREERS

27:19 - OUTRO

The You Are A Lawyer Podcast promotes lawyers who make fearless career changes, pursue ambitious side hustles, and create extraordinary lives. More than 70 guests have been interviewed since the podcast began in April 2020 and Kyla Denanyoh is still having fun. 

In this bonus episode, Kyla celebrates podcast milestones, and behind-the-scenes details about You Are A Lawyer. This Southern University Law Center graduate is embracing her life as a podcaster and YouTuber and interviewing a Southern University Law Center graduate every podcast season. Send an email if you know the two guests featured in that season.

If you have a cool lawyer side hustle or fearless career change, contact kyla@youarealawyer.com and get featured on the You Are A Lawyer podcast.

WATCH THIS BONUS EPISODE: https://youtu.be/Zbqrmhudh1k

Join the FREE mailing list! Get behind-the-scenes content from Kyla.

1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com

2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR

3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen

4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!

EPISODE TIMESTAMPS

00:00 - WELCOME TO YOU ARE A LAWYER

00:09 - 2023 UPDATES

00:53 - LAWYERS ARE RISK TAKERS

01:32 - PODCAST MILESTONE

01:55 - CONSISTENT PODCASTING 
02:40 - LAWYERS ARE CREATIVE

03:08 - PODCASTING CHANGED MY LIFE

03:23 - FROM BASEMENT TO CORNER OFFICE

04:17 - YOU ARE A LAWYER PODCAST

05:18 - LAW SCHOOL SHOUTOUT

05:48 - OUT OF COMFORT ZONE

06:57 - LEGAL YOUTUBE VIDEOS

07:32 - SUBSCRIBE TO PODCAST

08:04 - WHY HUMANIZE LAWYERS

08:57 - CONTACT KYLA

09:06 - ARE LAWYERS COOL?

09:15 - OUTRO

WATCH MORE VIDEOS ABOUT LAWYERS:

TOP 10 BLACK WOMEN LAWYERS ON TV: https://youtu.be/T0lB4KHHvd0

6 SOFT SKILLS THAT LAWYERS UNDERVALUE: https://youtu.be/mbNPwyv8fQ4

5 THINGS TO DO WHEN FAIL THE BAR EXAM: https://youtu.be/gEmurPXyQoE

Review Kyla’s favorite books here: https://amzn.to/3OTfrrZ  As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. 

Lawyers can do anything.

Every week, Kyla Denanyoh interviews a game-changing lawyer to discuss how their legal education impacts their life. Because whether you’re working as an artist, tech investor, yogi, or blogger, if you’ve graduated from law school, YOU ARE A LAWYER.

By sharing their experiences during and after law school, podcast guests expose how law school promotes competition and perfectionism and their creativity and talents are often hidden. Until now.

You Are A Lawyer promotes lawyers and law school graduates with exciting hobbies, interests, and career changes. This podcast will motivate you to start that side hustle, challenge you to find a nontraditional career, and push you to embrace the hobby that you’ve been hiding.

So ask yourself, are you an ambitious lawyer who is limited in their career? A law student who daydreams about impacting the world? Did you struggle with the bar exam and now you’re bored with the law?

You Are A Lawyer will remind you that your law degree is valuable wherever you are and whatever you are doing. Join the email list and get introduced to more fearless lawyers every week.

You can also WATCH THE YOU ARE A LAWYER PODCAST: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_eB5OebHvATnld4TFekX1g

Join the FREE email list! Get behind-the-scenes content from Kyla.

1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com

2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR

3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen

4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Review Kyla’s favorite books here: https://amzn.to/3OTfrrZ

Sabrina Thompson didn’t enjoy her immigration law class and was happy to discover crimmigration law (criminal defense + immigration representation) to advocate for immigrants. Find out how traffic law intersects with crimmigration law in Episode 72 of You Are A Lawyer.

Crimmigration law is an intriguing combination of criminal defense and immigration law and Sabrina Thompson loves it. As the daughter of immigrants (from St. Kitts and Haiti) Sabrina grew up understanding the challenges of immigrants and wanting to advocate for them. 

After interning in prosecution offices, a criminal defense law clinic at Howard University Law School changed everything for Sabrina. 

After working in the public defender’s office for five years, Sabrina opened her own law firm where she specialized in criminal defense, immigration, and traffic law. Yes, there is a space for this kind of law (often called crimmigration law) and immigrants face large challenges in the criminal justice system. 

Find out why Sabrina loved practicing law and whether she enjoys writing more than being in court. 

WATCH THIS INTERVIEW ON YOUTUBE

EPISODE TIMESTAMPS

00:00 - INTRO

00:22 - INTRODUCING SABRINA THOMPSON

02:22 - CRIMMIGRATION LAW

03:45 - WHY DEFEND IMMIGRANTS

04:34 - IMMIGRATION POLICIES

05:31 - AWARDS FROM PRACTICING LAW

05:55 - TRAFFIC LAW

06:41 - LAWYERS SOLVE PROBLEMS

07:08 - WHY BE A LAWYER

07:50 - BE A ZEALOUS ADVOCATE

08:07 - LAWYER PERSONALITY

08:34 - ANY WRITING SKILLS?

09:28 - PUBLIC SPEAKING VS WRITING

09:41 - LAW SCHOOL EXPERIENCES

10:38 - PROSECUTION INTERNSHIPS

11:18 - SAME PRACTICE AREA

12:08 - SELF CARE TIPS

13:02 - DISTRACTING KIDS

13:58 - CITIZEN OF THE WORLD

15:02 - PUBLIC DEFENDERS ARE LAWYERS

15:41 - PROUD OF LAW DEGREE

16:43 - FAVORITE COURT

17:44 - SCOTUS VISITS

18:33 - ADVICE FOR LAW STUDENTS

19:31 - WORK FOR YOURSELF

20:36 - BONUS! DOES KYLA PRACTICE LAW?

21:15 - BONUS! WHY NOT PRACTICE?

21:55 - BAR EXAM CHALLENGES

23:01 - OUTRO

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Review Kyla’s favorite books here: https://amzn.to/3OTfrrZ

Sabrina Thompson is licensed to practice law in state court in Maryland, District Court, and the Supreme Court of the United States. Learn more about the Thompson Legal Group
Get involved with Justis Connection: https://www.justisconnection.com/

WATCH THIS INTERVIEW OF SABRINA THOMPSON ON YOUTUBE

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE THESE EPISODES
Superwoman is a Myth! Why Asking for Help Made Me A Better Lawyer

https://www.youarealawyer.com/posts/superwoman-is-a-myth-why-asking-for-help-made-me-a-better-lawyer-featuring-krista-lynn

How To Find a Black Legal Specialist (ad Justis Connection) featuring Kisha Brown

https://www.youarealawyer.com/posts/how-to-find-a-black-legal-specialist-and-justis-connection-featuring-kisha-brown

Prosecutors are Misunderstood. Why Justice is my Client featuring Brianna Herman

https://www.youarealawyer.com/posts/prosecutors-are-misunderstood-why-justice-is-my-client-featuring-brianna-herman

Join the FREE email list!

 Get behind-the-scenes content from Kyla.

1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com

2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR

3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen

4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!

Dana Shaker believes that your legal practice can be improved when you improve your mental health. Why? Because participating in community-based activities, like yoga and journaling, allows lawyers to reflect on their journeys and better serve their clients. How? Because Dana Shaker did it first and it works!

After failing the bar exam, Dana had some tough conversations with herself about whether the stress and anxiety of taking the bar exam were worth the damage it caused her. When Dana decided that the would take the bar exam again, Dana knew that she needed to make some major changes during this second experience. This was when Dana dusted off her yoga mat.

WATCH THIS INTERVIEW ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/dm9BlOgjfBg

Initially discovering yoga as a competitive swimmer in college, Dana enjoyed the practice and the benefits it had for her body. But would Dana have time to practice yoga while memorizing statutes for the bar exam? Yes. She had to. 

Journey and Practice offers the Heart-Centered Lawyers membership, a community of lawyers who participate in coffee chats, group yoga sessions, journaling activities, and more to connect with each other and improve their journey and practice.  

Dana explains that we “go on an inward journey, find out more about yourself and practice what you have learned [in law], as well as practicing yoga.” Because being a lawyer is a journey and practice and yoga is a journey and practice. 

Now, in addition to being a certified yoga and policy consultant, Dana Shaker is a third-generation law firm owner. 

Don’t call this a comeback or remix, Episode 71 will remind you that taking time for yourself will allow you to better serve others.

Practicing law is a journey and yoga is a practice. Dana Shaker cares about how your yoga practice impacts your legal practice, bar studying, and overall mental health. 

NOTE: Always consult with a medical professional or your doctor before beginning any new exercise regimens. 

Advertiser: Journey and Practice offers The Heart-Centered Lawyers Membership, a community of law students, grads, and lawyers who participate in self-care activities to improve their legal journey and practice. Visit https://journeyandpractice.com/services and enroll with code "podcast" for a special rate.

Join the Heart-Centered Lawyers Membership: https://journeyandpractice.com/services 

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Review Kyla’s favorite books here: https://amzn.to/3OTfrrZ

WATCH THIS INTERVIEW ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/dm9BlOgjfBg

EPISODE TIMESTAMPS 

VIDEO CHAPTERS

00:00 - INTRO

00:13 - WELCOME TO YOU ARE A LAWYER

00:38 - FOLLOW-UP RECORDING

01:31 - WELCOME DANA SHAKER

02:06 - DANA’S BACKGROUND

02:48 - JOURNEY & PRACTICE

04:15 - YOGA PRACTICE

05:45 - SPOILER ALERT!

06:39 - DIFFERENT YOGA STYLES

08:45 - 8 DIFF YOGA STYLES

09:40 - CLIPS FROM YOGA CLASSES

11:40 - WHO TRAINED YOGI DANA

14:28 - ENERGY VARIES AFTER YOGA

15:15 - SPOILER ALERT!

16:40 - BE PRESENT FOR YOGA

17:32 - DANA IS ORGANIZED

20:30 - TIME MANAGEMENT TIPS

21:02 - VIRTUAL RECORDING TIPS

22:11 - CHANGES IN YOGA?

24:14 - YOGIS ARE FOCUSED

25:59 - HEART-CENTERED LAWYERS

Dana Shaker is licensed to practice law in Washington, D.C. Learn more about Dana Shaker:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/journeyandpractice/?hl=en

Website: https://www.journeyandpractice.com

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You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE THESE EPISODES

How Yoga Helps Law Students Pass The Bar Exam featuring Dana Shaker

How I Graduated from Law School With Honors After Failing Out featuring SeNita McRae

How Podcasts Can Save Your Life and Boost Your Law Practice featuring Robert Ingalls

Join the FREE mailing list and get behind-the-scenes content from Kyla.

1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com

2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR

3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen

4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!

LISTEN TO LEARN

• Why law school doesn’t teach anything about running a business
• Law firms do not have to be elitist
• People underestimate all the work it takes to become successful

WE ALSO DISCUSS

• The benefits of interning in law school
• Most lawyers don’t know what kind of law they want to practice
• How to problem solve while being outside (and surfing, biking, hiking, or swimming) 

Watch this interview with Jonathan Rosenfeld on YouTube: https://youtu.be/QDf2gvSL1kI

After interning with a personal injury law firm, Jonathan Rosenfeld realized that this practice area was great for him. Jonathan continued to work with various personal injury law firms to gain more experience with mass tort cases, truck or car accidents, dog bites, and other class action suits. 

The true magic of personal injury law is that any person, of any age or occupation, can be involved in a personal injury accident.

Jonathan Rosenfeld began recording YouTube videos and podcasts to better explain personal injury law. With greater knowledge, clients will understand the flow of personal injury actions and the patience needed for class action suits. An added benefit to creating content about legal issues is that Jonathan is also advertising for his law firm.

In this episode, Jonathan Rosenfeld encourages lawyers to work hard and not rest on their school accolades. 

“Your J.D. is just a piece of paper,” exclaims Jonathan Rosenfeld. Jonathan insists that becoming successful requires hard work after law school. Regardless of whether you enjoyed law school or found it easy, you must create the career that you want when you are away from the classroom. 

Jonathan continues, “people who are successful, who have long-term success, put in so much work that you would never believe it.” We discuss how much time and effort is needed to become an overnight success because success is not easy to obtain. 

Jonathan Rosenfeld is licensed to practice law in Illinois. Learn more about Jonathan Rosenfeld:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanrosenfeld/

Website: https://www.rosenfeldinjurylawyers.com/

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You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com
YouTube:  

Advertiser: Journey and Practice offers The Heart-Centered Lawyers Membership, a community of law students, grads, and lawyers who participate in self-care activities to improve their legal journey and practice. Visit https://journeyandpractice.com/services and enroll with code "podcast" for a special rate.

EPISODE TIMESTAMPS 

00:00 - INTRO

00:20 - WELCOME TO YAAL

00:56 - INTRODUCE YOURSELF

01:48 - YOU’RE A FOODIE

02:04 - JONATHAN’S BACKGROUND

04:31 - PARENTS SUGGESTED LAW SCHOOL

05:06 - IS LAW SCHOOL HELP YOUR BUSINESS

06:36 - BIZ LAW CLASSES ARE ELECTIVES

07:33 - WHY PERSONAL INJURY LAW?

08:40 - WHY CREATE YOUR OWN FIRM?

10:29 - IS A JD IMPRESSIVE?

12:05 - RESULTS ARE IMPRESSIVE

13:07 - WHY SO LAID BACK?

14:05 - WORK/LIFE BALANCE

14:27 - ADVICE FOR NEW LAWYERS?

15:47 - SUCCESS TAKES WORK

Thanks for listening to You Are A Lawyer!

Join the FREE mailing list and get behind-the-scenes content from Kyla.

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2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR

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4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!

Learn more about the Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers law firm. 

Subscribe to the Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers YouTube Channel

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Review my favorite books here: https://amzn.to/3OTfrrZ

LISTEN TO LEARN

• Why you need to define your values while obtaining success
• How to advocate for yourself
• Why Suzi planned to become a pediatrician
• The challenges of patent prosecution

WHAT ALSO DISCUSS

• Advice if you are practicing law and miserable (hint: it’s not YOU)
• How to identify S.M.A.R.T. goals for your life
• Why [most] lawyers hate math

Law school teaches people to advocate for causes they're passionate about, but women lawyers often forget themselves. The giving, or empathetic nature, of most women allows them to be given to their own deficit, but not anymore. 

Suzi Hixon wants women lawyers to fight for themselves, support themselves, and define success for themselves."You must define success for yourself because otherwise, you will look for the big career, big office, and beautiful family that society tells you that you must have," explains Suzi Hixon in Episode 69 of You Are A Lawyer.

You must define success for yourself because otherwise, you will look for the big career, big office, and beautiful family that society tells you that you must have. 

When you take a step back and think about how your goals and values affect your life, then you will see how your life is successful.

“You can always earn another $500, but you cannot get your time back,” explains Suzi Hixon.  When Suzi Hixon created the podcast, Legally Blissed Conversations, to hear the struggles and wins of women lawyers. There were often common stories of successful women who weren't the best at advocating for themselves. 

Where are your drive for success and career goals really coming from? Do you want all of those things and are the things you are chasing aligning with your values?

From childhood, Suzi thought that she would be a veterinarian or pediatrician, Suzi did not earn the grades that she thought she needed for medical school and Suzi was disheartened by the MCAT. Born in Colorado, Suzi later moved to Kentucky to attend undergraduate and law school. Suzi moved to California and returned to Kentucky where she runs her law firm and founded the Legalled Blissed community.

The Legally Blissed Community provides women lawyers with mentorship and friendship, both help women attorneys to thrive in their careers and lives.

After attending law school so that she could extend her undergrad years, Suzi was unsure of the type of law that she wanted to practice after law school.

During a study abroad semester, Suzi was introduced to European patent law and found that to be really interesting. But patent law is really steeped in mechanical engineering and didn't play well with the science background that Suzi has. Suzi later changed to trademark law and found it really exciting to work with trademarks, logos, and marketing departments because this work involved marketing departments and the "fun" nerds.

YOU MAY ALSO WATCH THE YOUTUBE VIDEO OF EPISODE 69 OF YOU ARE A LAWYER

EPISODE TIMESTAMPS
00:00 - INTRO

00:18 - Welcome Suzi Hixon to You Are A Lawyer

00:46 - Explain why you created your business, Legally Blissed

01:39 - Why did you create the Legally Blissed community and Legally Blissed Conversations podcast?

05:37 - Legally Blissed community teaches women lawyers to define their goals

06:38 - Podcast available in audio-only format 

07:06 - Suzi became a lawyer instead of a pediatrician

08:46 - Discussion about undergraduate school and backgrounds

09:53 - Why it’s hard for lawyers to change

10:39 - Where do you live? Where are you from?

12:18 - How was the patent bar and working in patent prosecution?

13:24 - Studying abroad in law school

15:04 - Lawyers are nerds; engineers are geeks

16:30 - Advice for new lawyers (5 years or less practicing) 

18:53 - There are multiple reasons that you are miserable practicing law: consider law firm culture, change the practice area, or find a new career/law mentor.

19:16 - Thanks for watching this interview with Suzi Hixon on the You Are A Lawyer podcast. 

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

ABOUT THE GUEST

Suzi Hixon is licensed to practice law in Kentucky and the Patent Bar. Learn more about Suzi Hixon:

Website: www.LegallyBlissed.com
Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/legally-blissed-conversations/id1615972092

ABOUT THE PODCAST

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE THESE EPISODES

Anjie Vichayanonda Discusses the Importance of Mentorship for Lawyers

Rho Thomas Wants Lawyers to Enjoy Life and Become Financially Free

From Design Hobby to Clothing Designer and Lawyer feat. Robert Uy

Join the FREE mailing list and get behind-the-scenes content from Kyla.

1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com

2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR

3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen

4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!

Subscription-based law firms are shaking up the legal practice in BIG ways. Many actions that lawyers complete, drafting documents, reviewing files, monitoring trademarks, etc. can be paid for on a subscription model and Mathew Kerbis wants to convince you of this. 

And you will believe him. Kerbis, as he prefers to be called, even shared the magic of subscription-based legal service with his employer. The insurance defense company ultimately decided to keep their billable hour requirements, but this did not deter Kerbis. 

Transparent pricing, transparent agreements, and having the feeling that you could do this; you could be a subscription attorney, is Kerbis’ model. Imagine not being billed when your attorney is researching an issue. This a task that could be 80% of the time spent by an attorney while working on your case. Kerbis does not bill for this task because he will take that research and use it for his Knowledge Base which allows him to serve more clients who could potentially have that same question.

"Engagement agreements are an earned fee immediately, the opposite of a retainer fee, where the client is billing against the retained money," explains Kerbis.

Chair of the Law Student Division of the ABA (like being president of the group and traveling to learn more about law students). Then ran for Chair of the Young Lawyers Division. The entire purpose was to find ways to innovate the legal practice and find ways to make members of the American Bar Association, Kerbis was a member of the young lawyers' division founding podcast team. Learning to record and edit and release podcasts. Took all that knowledge and used it to teach others bout subscription-based legal services. 

Kerbis started his podcast, The Law Subscribed, to inform others about subscription-based legal services and to use his background in performing arts. The Law Subscribed is all about bringing the subscription model to legal services. 

Kerbis relies on tech tools, like Calendly and time-blocking, to ensure that he prioritizes time with his family and away from work responsibilities. Working hard, working with technology, working on tasks that you enjoy, and managing your schedule in the way that you want to, makes running your own business a better option than the comforts of working a typical 9 to 5 job.

EPISODE TIMESTAMPS 

00:00 - INTRO: Welcome to You Are A Lawyer hosted by Kyla Denanyoh

00:35 - Welcome to the podcast, Mathew Kerbis. 

00:47 - You actually prefer to be called Kerbis. Would you tell the audience about yourself?

01:55 - I went to law school intended to work in transactional law, but podcasting has helped me when transactional law is too much writing (re: boring)

02:15 - With your litigation background, was hosting the podcast, The Law Subscribed, an easy transition for you?

03:14 - I think that having a child is a really big eye-opening situation. Would you share more details about billable hours and why you wanted to get away from that demand?

05:45 - And you’re running your own law firm full-time?

06:00 - It is wild that leaving a 9-to-5 to run your own business, even if working 20 out of 24 hours, could be less work than working at a law firm with billable hours.

07:41 - Did you learn how to time block, or block scheduling, from billing your time at the law firm, or studying in law school?

09:55 - I asked about time blocking because I did that in law school and now, I live by checklists and reminders. I think time blocking is really beneficial. 

12:36 - Planning your schedule and time blocking sounds like stress and anxiety management. 

13:01 - Kerbis, what made you go to law school?

14:59 - A professor sparked your interest in the law. And when you were in law school did you know that you wanted to be a litigator?

17:01 - It sounds like being a litigator was a stair step to the career that you have now.

17:14 - I call the podcast You Are A Lawyer because I truly believe that everything you do in life will be viewed through the lens of a lawyer. Law school has a way of re-wiring the brain. 

17:49 - Let’s discuss the Law Subscribed Podcast and The Subscription Attorney LLC. Which came first, the podcast or the business?

19:35 - People thought that the subscription model was really cool but didn’t understand it.  

21:10 - What does it mean to have an attorney with the subscription model? Are you on retainer for every client?

22:20 - Subscription-based legal services are not retainer agreements. Subscribers with The Subscription Attorney sign engagement agreements because subscribers get immediate access to resources and Kerbis’ calendar which makes an engagement agreement an earned fee. 

26:05 - Is the subscription package a national service or would you make referrals to lawyers in a different state?

27:14 - A brief explanation of fractionalized in-house counsel, which does not only include business transactions. If Kerbis is unable to assist you with a family law or adoption matter, subscribers will be referred to other lawyers.

29:08 - On your website, subscriptionattorney.com mentions legal services for freelancers. Is there anything specific that you offer that a typical retainer agreement would not offer a freelancer?

32:29 - The Subscription Attorney provides access to legal services for small business owners and freelancers who would normally be priced out of the market for most legal services.

33:46 - A small business is defined as a business that makes less than two million dollars a year. The fact that you could earn big money and not have access to competent legal counsel is ridiculous. 

34:31 - Kerbis, is there anything else you want to share with the audience about why you attended law school or the practice of law?

35:51 - OUTRO: Thanks for listening to the episode and rate this podcast. 

‍

IMPORTANT LINKS FROM THE EPISODE

Book a call with The Subscription Attorney LLC: https://subscriptionattorney.com/

Law Subscribed Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/law-subscribed/id1586707101

Chicago Bar Show: https://www.chicagobar.org/chicagobar/CBA/Programs/Bar_Show_Main_Page

American Bar Association: https://www.americanbar.org/membership/

Thinking Like A Lawyer Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/above-the-law-thinking-like-a-lawyer/id976331027

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LISTEN TO LEARN

• Why fractionalized in-house counsel is the future
• The importance of time-blocking your calendar
• Best tech tools for solo law practitioners
• Every attorney sending client information through email could be committing client malpractice
• Why legal services for freelancers is an important niche market

‍

WHAT WE DISCUSS

• Podcasting is a wonderful medium for lawyers because of the performance aspect of 
• How business owners can minimize surprises and control their time
• Lawyers (especially litigators) often enjoy the performance of law. 
• The differences between engagement fees and retainer agreements

‍

Join the FREE mailing list and get behind-the-scenes content from Kyla.

1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com

2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR

3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen

4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!

‍

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Review my favorite books here: https://amzn.to/3OTfrrZ

Schedule a call with The Subscription Attorney, Mathew Kerbis: https://subscriptionattorney.com/

When you stop playing small, you decide that you will accept all the opportunities and blessings that life has to offer. You are always prepared, you are ready to meet any challenge, and you get excited by new experiences. 

Esther Etim has opportunities thrown at her and she is prepared every single time. 

The countless options excited Esther Etim:

• When Esther was unsure about studying law so she created her own mentorship program, Esther learned her answer because she was proactive. 
• Esther Etim worked and wrote, studied, prepared, and managed her expectations for life. And life continued to surprise Esther (and me!) with the opportunities presented to her.
• When a report needed to be edited to perfection - Esther handled it.
• When a radio station asked Esther Etim to become an interviewer - Esther was ready. 
• When a book publisher created an ad specifically looking for her (so cool!), Esther responded to the advertisement because she was ready.

Stop. Playing. Small! Esther will help you forget that you know the word SMALL.

Currently, when Esther Etim is not writing multicultural fiction, she is producing a movie about how she is not “Nigerian enough” for some people.

For assistance with creating a legal career or help with building a personal brand and business that you actually like visit www.estheretim.org/links.

LISTEN TO LEARN:

• How to prepare in undergraduate school to become a lawyer (LLB)
• The challenge of looking for a job during the 2008 global recession
• How to use your law background as a blogger
• The importance of Lagos in Nigerian entertainment and media

‍

WE ALSO DISCUSS:

• How to deal with one-sided and selfish friendships
• Studying law in the United Kingdom versus Nigeria
• Working as a writer on a reality television show
• Why you need to create a blogazine

‍

EPISODE TIMESTAMPS

00:00:00 - INTRO: Welcome to You Are A Lawyer and Introduction of Esther Etim

00:00:46 - Explanation of the LLB degree and studying law in the United Kingdom

00:05:15 - Explanation of attending law school in the United States of America

00:05:51 - Without the bar exam, it often feels like your law degree is not worth anything

00:06:42 - What was the incentive or advantage of attending law school in the United Kingdom vs Nigeria

00:07:44 - Explanation of standardized exams and their importance in education in the United States

00:08:25 - Graduated from secondary school at 16 and attended law school at 21. Is this track typical of students in Nigeria?

00:09:28 - You decided not to practice law after finishing all of your exams. Why did you make that decision?

00:18:39 - Advertisement for The Heart-Centered Lawyers Membership from Journey & Practice

00:19:17 - The use of mental wards in criminal proceedings in the United Kingdom

00:28:25 - Discrimination because Esther did not sound Nigerian enough to work in media

00:31:13 - It sounds like you are advocating for others even though you didn’t become a full solicitor advocate

00:31:28 - If you cannot find something, you must create it

00:31:34 - Your privilege is not always about you

00:31:57 - Esther listened to the You Are A Lawyer podcast and thought, “How can I participate and help others?” and pitched herself to be a guest on this podcast

00:32:10 - Your story will resonate with others and challenge them to say, “Am I doing everything I can in my life?” or “Why aren’t I doing more?”

00:33:01 - Work hard because you never know who is watching; your enemies or your next opportunity

00:33:47 - Why are you teaching other women to say ‘No?” Why was it so important that you learned how to say no?

00:37:16 - Women are always rationalizing responses or emotions, but No is a complete sentence

00:37:28 - Are you still writing your BEFFTA award-winning blog?

00:37:46 - You wouldn’t take too much time away from writing because writers need to write

00:38:15 - Do all of the stuff!

00:38:19 - Esther, is there anything else you want to share with the audience?

Esther Etim: First, don't be afraid to ask questions. Second, don't be afraid to start where you are. And Third, learn to recognize people, things, and situations for what they are, not what your ego or emotions would prefer, and treat them accordingly. 

00:39:24 - OUTRO: Rate the podcast and tell a friend to listen to You Are A Lawyer

‍

Purchase a book written by Esther Etim here: https://estheretim.org/books/

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Review my favorite books here: https://amzn.to/3OTfrrZ

Esther Etim is not licensed to practice law. Learn more about Esther Etim:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chioma-esther-edem-etim-ce3/

‍

Website: www.estheretim.org/links

‍

*

‍

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

‍

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

‍

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

‍

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

‍

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE THESE EPISODES:

Rebecca Larson - https://www.youarealawyer.com/posts/rebecca-larson-real-estate-risk-mitigator-and-lawyer

CarolineVickers - https://www.youarealawyer.com/posts/caroline-vickers-retake-the-bar-exam-like-a-champ

‍

Join the FREE mailing list and get behind-the-scenes content from Kyla.

1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com

2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR

3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen

4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!

‍

Advertiser: Journey and Practice offers The Heart-Centered Lawyers Membership, a community of law students, grads, and lawyers who participate in self-care activities to improve their legal journey and practice. Visit https://journeyandpractice.com/services and enroll with code "podcast" for a special rate.

What was the highlight of my day? What did I do really well? What could I do more of? How could I be even better? What decisions did I make? How could that impact me mentally? 

Charlène Gisèle asks herself these questions every day and believes that if you don't start your day with a bit of self-care, then you probably won't do it. After experiencing burnout, Charlène decided to become a burnout prevention expert and help others avoid burnout. 

As a child, Charlène Gisèle knew that she wanted to be a lawyer. She watched her father work as a high-achieving lawyer and Charlène wanted the same career for herself. 

But after her father had a heart attack and stroke, Charlène reconsidered her priorities. Although Charlène experienced anxiety, insomnia, and a deteriorated marriage, it wasn’t until she saw her father suffer, that Charlène truly understand burnout. 

Charlène explains that suffering with mental health issues is unlike any other illness because no one can see your pain. “You do not walk around with a bandage or cast on your head,” in the way you would have a cast on your leg or arm when you are injured. But Charlène is adamant that burnout must be treated as seriously as any other illness.

It was with great difficulty that Charlène decided to leave her Big Law office. Charlène spent so much time studying at Cambridge University (United Kingdom) and learning the law, but it was time for Charlène to learn about work-life balance. 

Charlène Gisèle created a consulting company, Charlène Gisèle, where she and two associates, coach lawyers and C-suite executives to remain high-achieving professionals. 

Two or three minutes of breathwork or reflection after a big meeting will really help high-achieving lawyers and executives avoid burnout. In fact, creating these micro habits are better than taking a 3-week holiday. Creating consistent self-care micro habits allows you to learn habits that will serve you for the rest of your life in addition to helping you avoid burnout. 

Charlène is able to help high-achievers change their mindsets about self-care because she negotiates with them and explains that your well-being affects your performance. “When you must bridge the gap between how you react to things and how you feel, your micro habits will impact you,” says Charlène Gisèle. 

Charlène Gisèle serves clients in Asia, America, and Europe and has fluctuating schedules that allow her to get adequate rest while meeting clients in these varying time zones. 

Charlène credits law school with teaching her persistence and resistance, two traits that Charlène continues to use every day even though she has left Big Law. 

Join the Bounce Back from Burnout Masterclass with Charlène Gisele:

https://joinnow.live/s/RjYWK5?_ga=2.99992984.782084531.1669768903-781012046.1669768903

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Review my favorite books here: https://amzn.to/3OTfrrZ

Listen to learn:

• How to serve clients in multiple time zones without overworking yourself
• The importance of leaning into your inner cheerleader
• How resilience and precision allowed Charlène to create her business 

We also discuss:

• How to define a Big Law firm  
• Best career choices if you have a JD and want to avoid burnout
• Why self-awareness work impacts your performance

Episode Timestamps
00:00 - INTRO
00:45 What’s the difference between a barrister and a litigator or solicitor in the UK? 
01:45 Are American Big Law firms the same as Big Law firms in the UK?
02:21 Silver Circle and Magic Circle Law Firm Description
02:42 Did you encounter high stress, high demands, and long hours in Big Law?
03:37 How young were you when you decided to attend law school? What’s your background?
04:56 did watching your dad become stressed out as a lawyer inspire you to help other lawyers avoid this path?
07:59 Is your dad doing better since his health concerns?
08:45 You can also listen to this podcast at youarealawyer.com
09:09 What’s a typical day for a performance coach?
12:50 What is powering down? How can you Power Down and stop negative backtalk?
14:09 How to progress professionally and personally?
14:30 Did you learn all of this in your training?
16:05 How difficult is it for lawyers to admit they’re performing poorly?
16:17 How did you decide to leave Big Law?
19:47 Do annual vacations enough to improve my mental health?
22:12 What did you learn in law school that makes you a better lawyer?
25:24 Are you French and living in the UK?

Charlène Gisèle practiced law in the United Kingdom. Learn more about Charlène Gisèle:  

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/charlenegisele/

Website: www.charlenegisele.com

*

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Elisabeth Steele - 

https://www.youarealawyer.com/posts/elisabeth-steele-the-choice-to-not-do-something-is-a-choice-thats-valuable

Alban Brooke - 

https://www.youarealawyer.com/posts/alban-brooke-buzzsprout-head-of-marketing-and-lawyer

Join the FREE mailing list and get behind-the-scenes content from Kyla. 

1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com

2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR

3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen

4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!

Robert Ingalls is the Chief Podcast Strategist of LawPods, a full-service podcast production company for lawyers. After a book led him to a podcast, Robert was impressed by the numerous podcast topics and diverse content offerings. Robert Ingalls began his own podcast, then consulted with others about how to start their podcasts. Later, Robert Ingalls used his experience to create LawPods and take the stress out of podcasting for lawyers. 

Listen to learn:

• Why changing your mindset can change your life
• The importance of changing your career if your mental health suffers while practicing law
• How others turn their hobbies into their passions

We also discuss:

• The book Mindset by Carol Dweck
• Best career choices if you have a JD and enjoy storytelling and talking
• Why working in different legal practice areas may benefit you

Robert Ingalls is licensed to practice law in North Carolina. Learn more about Robert Ingalls:  

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Lawpods/

Website: www.lawpods.com

*

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Advertiser: Journey and Practice offers The Heart-Centered Lawyers Membership, a community of law students, grads, and lawyers who participate in yoga, journaling, and other self-care activities. Visit https://journeyandpractice.com/services and enroll with code "podcast" for a special rate.

Join the FREE mailing list and get behind-the-scenes content from Kyla.

1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com

2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR

3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen

4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Grab Kyla’s favorite books here: https://amzn.to/3FpCo2K

Kyla Denanyoh shares TWO big announcements in this bonus episode of You Are A Lawyer. Listen to find out what was special about Season Four and what to expect in Season Five of the podcast. 

You can also WATCH this bonus episode: https://youtu.be/paRe5CQZMRQ

Watch the last You Are A Lawyer YouTube video here. 

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Support your favorite lawyer’s favorite podcaster and grab some You Are A Lawyer merchandise at shopyouarealawyer.com.

Join the FREE mailing list and get behind-the-scenes content from Kyla.

1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com

2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR

3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen

4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Grab Kyla’s favorite books here: https://amzn.to/3FpCo2K

Nicole Kobis became a family lawyer and mediator after a clerkship sparked her interest in this legal field.  After realizing that she could advocate for families with malice or deceit, Nicole Kobis used her mediation training to ensure that family members were protected and treated with respect and dignity in every divorce, separation, or other family law proceeding. 

Listen to learn:

• How compartmentalizing allows you to prioritize clients and protect your mental health
• The importance of the Women’s Rights Law Reporter at Rutgers School of Law-Newark
• How improving your listening skills can make you a better lawyer

We also discuss:

• Best career choices if you have a JD and are empathetic
• How to counsel your clients without getting overwhelmed
• Why lawyers must deal with the stresses of practicing law 

Nicole Kobis is licensed to practice law in New York and New Jersey.

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You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Support your favorite lawyer’s favorite podcaster and grab some You Are A Lawyer merchandise at shopyouarealawyer.com.

OTHER EPISODES YOU MAY LIKE
Rho Thomas Wants Lawyers to Enjoy Life While Becoming Financially Free -

https://www.youarealawyer.com/posts/rho-thomas-money-coach-and-lawyer

How to Knock Out the Bar Exam with Caroline Vickers - https://www.youarealawyer.com/posts/caroline-vickers-retake-the-bar-exam-like-a-champ

Why I Never Discussed My Yale Law Degree featuring Elisabeth Steele - 

https://www.youarealawyer.com/posts/elisabeth-steele-the-choice-to-not-do-something-is-a-choice-thats-valuable

SUPPORT YOU ARE A LAWYER

Buy my favorite books here: https://amzn.to/3OTfrrZ
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Join the FREE mailing list and get behind-the-scenes content from Kyla.

1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com

2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR

3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen

4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!

Joel Oster became a comedian so that he could keep his CLE students awake. After realizing that he enjoyed making people laugh, Joel Oster began to study how to be funny, the art of writing jokes, and attending comedy open mic nights. All of this occurred while Joel Oster is practicing law. Listen to find out why your JD can make you stand out, even as a comedian. 

Listen to learn:

• What it means to identify as a lawyer
• Why every lawyer is a constitutional lawyer
• How to become a better comedian 

We also discuss:

• Why the law is a tool and how to use it to advocate
• The importance of litigating before the Supreme Court
• Best career choices if you have a JD and are really funny

Joel Oster is licensed to practice law in Kansas, Florida, and Missouri. 

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You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Support your favorite lawyer’s favorite podcaster and grab some You Are A Lawyer merchandise at shopyouarealawyer.com.

MORE EPISODES YOU MAY ENJOY
How Career Strategists Help Lawyers Discover Their Passions feat. Michelle Thompson -

https://www.youarealawyer.com/posts/michelle-thompson-career-strategist-and-lawyer

Why Lawyers Should Podcast (and How To Get Started) feat. Robert Ingalls - 

https://www.youarealawyer.com/posts/robert-ingalls-lawpods-founder-and-lawyer

From Intern to Data Privacy Counsel feat. Terrance Pryor - 

https://www.youarealawyer.com/posts/terrance-pryor-data-privacy-counsel-and-lawyer

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Grab a book mentioned in this episode: https://amzn.to/3FpCo2K

Join the FREE mailing list and get behind-the-scenes content from Kyla.

1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com

2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR

3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen

4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!

Anne-Marie Rabago founded Modern Juris, a legal incubator that she could mold and guide because other incubators were too restrictive. After realizing that many lawyers lacked the practical skills needed to practice law and sustain their businesses, Anne-Marie Rabago filled the void in the market with her own experience. Now, Anne-Marie Rabago teaches lawyers to work with the clients they **want** and to structure their lives to sustain their businesses and later, thrive in business.

Listen to learn:

• How a legal incubator helps you understand the business of law practice
• The importance of identifying and declining the wrong clients
• How to recognize burnout and pivot in your career

We also discuss:

• How to create a sustainable business instead of a successful business
• Best career choices if you have a JD and entrepreneur mindset
• Why proactive problem-solving is more beneficial than reactive lawyering

Anne-Marie Rabago is licensed to practice law in Texas and California. 

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You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Support your favorite lawyer’s favorite podcaster and grab some You Are A Lawyer merchandise at shopyouarealawyer.com.

Join the FREE mailing list and get behind-the-scenes content from Kyla.

1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com

2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR

3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen

4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Grab Kyla’s favorite books here: https://amzn.to/3FpCo2K

SeNita McRae intentionally attended Historically Black Colleges and Universities for all three of her degrees. 

After her family tried to convince her to attend law school, SeNita McRae decided to earn a Master’s Degree in Public Administration instead. This degree inspired SeNita to advocate for women’s rights which, again, made SeNita look toward law schools.  

After finishing law school and taking the bar exam while pregnant, SeNita found a unique way to combine her broadcast journalism, public administration, and law degrees. 

Currently, SeNita McRae uses her experience to modernize and streamline corporations as a Legal Operations Manager. 

Listen to learn:

• How eDiscovery and data privacy are changing the legal profession
• The importance of attending HBCU graduate and law schools
• How to find your 3Ps in work: process pain points

We also discuss:

• The importance of having Black professors and teachers
• Best career choices if you have a JD and broadcast journalism background
• Why an MPA is a good foundation for a lawyer

SeNita McRae is not licensed to practice law.

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You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Support your favorite lawyer’s favorite podcaster and grab some You Are A Lawyer merchandise at shopyouarealawyer.com.

OTHER EPISODES YOU MAY LIKE
Rho Thomas Wants Lawyers to Enjoy Life While Becoming Financially Free -

https://www.youarealawyer.com/posts/rho-thomas-money-coach-and-lawyer

How to Knock Out the Bar Exam with Caroline Vickers - https://www.youarealawyer.com/posts/caroline-vickers-retake-the-bar-exam-like-a-champ

Why I Never Discussed My Yale Law Degree featuring Elisabeth Steele - 

https://www.youarealawyer.com/posts/elisabeth-steele-the-choice-to-not-do-something-is-a-choice-thats-valuable

SUPPORT YOU ARE A LAWYER

Buy my favorite books here: https://amzn.to/3OTfrrZ
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Join the FREE mailing list and get behind-the-scenes content from Kyla.

1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com

2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR

3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen

4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!

Megan Smiley became a life coach because she wanted to inspire others to find their special talents and strengths.  After realizing that she was uncomfortable in traditional legal jobs, Megan Smiley became the Director of International [non-JD] Programming. Between her love for travel and the need to travel to create business relationships, Megan Smiley visited more than 58 countries. 

Now, Megan Smiley interviews former lawyers on The Lawyer’s Escape Podcast and works as a life coach. Her coaching work inspires people to find life and career happiness as well as find spaces that value their talents.  

Listen to learn:

• How to travel to more than 50 countries
• The importance of focusing on your special talents and strengths 
• How law school can guide you into specific traditional careers

We also discuss:

• How to start an interview-based podcast
• Best career choices if you have a JD and enjoy coaching others
• Why you should create your own definition of success

Megan Smiley is licensed to practice law in Massachusetts.

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You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Support your favorite lawyer’s favorite podcaster and grab some You Are A Lawyer merchandise at shopyouarealawyer.com.

Join the FREE mailing list and get behind-the-scenes content from Kyla.

1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com

2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR

3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen

4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Grab Kyla’s favorite books here: https://amzn.to/3FpCo2K

Jera Oliver became a Director of Development because she could see inequitable situations everywhere. After realizing that money is a tool, Jera Oliver learned to use fundraising and philanthropic giving to direct resources to the things that matter the most to her. 

Now, Jera Oliver advocates for equity in higher education institutions, working within and for the Office of Diversity and Inclusion at THE Ohio State University. Jera Oliver promotes diversity and maintains that money can change lives: whether its' large groups of people with small amounts of money, or small groups of people with large amounts of money. 

Listen to learn:

• How to use money as a tool
• The importance of Black and brown people in fundraising and philanthropy spaces
• How others can promote equity with philanthropic giving

We also discuss:

• How Black people can donate to causes that inspire change outside of the church
• Best career choices if you have a JD and enjoy sales and marketing
• The challenges of first-gen college students

Jera Oliver is not licensed to practice law. 

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You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Support your favorite lawyer’s favorite podcaster and grab some You Are A Lawyer merchandise at shopyouarealawyer.com.

OTHER EPISODES YOU MAY ENJOY

How Sales Funnels are Changing the Legal Industry feat. Sam Mollaei -

https://www.youarealawyer.com/posts/sam-mollaei-legal-funnel-founder-and-lawyer

From First Gen Lawyer and Higher Ed Fundraiser feat. Jera Oliver -

https://www.youarealawyer.com/posts/jera-oliver-philanthropy-director-and-lawyer

Why I Design Clothes and Practice Law feat. Robert Uy -  

https://www.youarealawyer.com/posts/robert-uy-pandamic-clothing-designer-and-lawyer

Grab a book mentioned in the podcast: https://amzn.to/3FpCo2K

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. 

Join the FREE mailing list and get behind-the-scenes content from Kyla.

1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com

2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR

3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen

4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!

Francesca Chang had no idea that learning Mandarin would change her life. The language inspired her father to revisit his motherland and Francesca Chang became obsessed with traveling, writing, and sharing her adventures in Taipei, Taiwan. Now, Francesca Chang hosts the bilingual YouTube channel, Attorney On A Journey, and coaches people how to monetize their passions. 

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Listen to learn:

‍

• How to leave the law and discover what makes you happy
• The challenges of working for a solo practitioner
• How a life coach can motivate you to change your life

‍

We also discuss:

‍

• How to change your life if you’re a bored lawyer (or bored in any career)
• Best career choices if you have a JD and love to write
• Why you don’t have to practice law with a JD (hint: you can do ANYTHING with a law degree)

‍

Francesca Chang has an inactive license to practice law in California, United States. Learn more about Francesca Chang:  

‍

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/attorney_on_a_journey/?hl=en

‍

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCx4wUICIFGy-u0c7_iHowiw/about

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You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

‍

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

‍

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

‍

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Support your favorite lawyer’s favorite podcaster and grab some You Are A Lawyer merchandise at shopyouarealawyer.com.

OTHER EPISODES YOU MAY ENJOY

How Sales Funnels are Changing the Legal Industry feat. Sam Mollaei -

https://www.youarealawyer.com/posts/sam-mollaei-legal-funnel-founder-and-lawyer

From First Gen Lawyer and Higher Ed Fundraiser feat. Jera Oliver -

https://www.youarealawyer.com/posts/jera-oliver-philanthropy-director-and-lawyer

Why I Design Clothes and Practice Law feat. Robert Uy -  

https://www.youarealawyer.com/posts/robert-uy-pandamic-clothing-designer-and-lawyer

Grab a book mentioned in the podcast: https://amzn.to/3FpCo2K

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. 

Join the FREE mailing list and get behind-the-scenes content from Kyla.

1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com

2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR

3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen

4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!

Rho Thomas became a money coach after she paid off multiple six figures of school debt. After realizing the power of paying more than minimum payments for bills, Rho Thomas created a blog to track her processes. Once friends and coworkers began to seek out Rho to help them find financial freedom, Rho realized that she would enjoy being a financial coach. Rho Thomas stopped practicing IP law to focus on the Wealthyesqe Podcast and helping lawyers improve their money mindsets. 

Listen to learn:

• Why lawyers need personal finance skills 
• The importance of following a money plan and paying off debts
• How financial freedom allows lawyers to daydream

We also discuss:

• How to network on social media
• Best career choices if you have a JD and enjoy personal finance
• The risks of being an entrepreneur 

Rho Thomas is licensed to practice law in Georgia. Learn more about Rho Thomas:  

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamrhothomas

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iamrhothomas

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You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Support your favorite lawyer’s favorite podcaster and grab some You Are A Lawyer merchandise at shopyouarealawyer.com.

Join the FREE mailing list and get behind-the-scenes content from Kyla.

1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com

2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR

3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen

4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Grab Kyla’s favorite books here: https://amzn.to/3FpCo2K

Sam Mollaei decided to attend law school because everyone around him was interested in law school. After realizing that traditional law firms did not fit him well, Sam Mollaei began studying YouTube, business books, and mentorship to create a business for himself. After discovering how multi-billion dollar companies earn money from sales funnels, Sam Mollaei decided to use the sales funnel process in law firms. Now, Sam Mollaei owns seven law firms and teaches others to create their own businesses through Legal Funnel.

WATCH THIS INTERVIEW between Sam Mollaei and Kyla Denanyoh now on YouTube. Sam Mollaei is the founder of Legal Funnel and Kyla Denanyoh is the host of the You Are A Lawyer podcast. 

Listen to learn:

• How to use a sales funnel in your law firm
• The importance of becoming a specialist and ignoring distractions
• Why mentorship is important as an entrepreneur

We also discuss:

• The book “The 4-Hour Workweek” by Timothy Ferriss
• Best career choices if you have a JD and an interest in marketing
• How to focus on activities that serve your long-term goals

Sam Mollaei is licensed to practice law in California. Learn more about Sam Mollaei:  

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/legalfunnel/?hl=en

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/LegalFunnel/featured

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MollaeiLaw/

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You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

YouTube: https://youtu.be/BfVWQehA4hk

Support your favorite lawyer’s favorite podcaster and grab some You Are A Lawyer merchandise at shopyouarealawyer.com.

Join the FREE mailing list and get behind-the-scenes content from Kyla.

1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com

2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR

3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen

4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Grab Kyla’s favorite books here: https://amzn.to/3FpCo2K

Michelle Thompson worked for not-for-profit organizations until the stress of her demanding career and poor coping mechanisms challenged her health. With the urging of her spouse, Michelle earned her Ph.D. and became an adjunct professor. Now, Michelle Thompson is the founder and career strategist for Resistant Vision, where Michelle teaches women to calm their nervous system, clarify what they want from life, and commit to taking steps to complete their vision. Every day, Michelle Thompson continues to work as the woman she needed when she was earning her Ph.D. and J.D.

Listen to learn:

• The benefits of EFT tapping for professional clarity
• The similarities between becoming a tenured professor and a law firm partner 
• How to commit to taking the steps to carry out your vision

We also discuss:

• How to recognize physical symptoms as signs of mental health issues
• Best career choices if you have a JD and want to be a college professor
• The book “We Should All Be Millionaires” by Rachel Rodgers

Michelle Thompson is licensed to practice law in Washington D.C. Learn more about Michelle Thompson:  

Instagram: https://instagram.com/resistant_vision

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ResistantVision

Twitter: https://twitter.com/mdionnethompson

On Tuesday, August 16, 2022, Michelle Thompson is hosting an event called, The One Tool to Lose The Stress. Use this link to register for the event: https://resistantvision.com/one-tool-to-lose-the-stress/

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You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Support your favorite lawyer’s favorite podcaster and grab some You Are A Lawyer merchandise at shopyouarealawyer.com.

When a tweet about withdrawing from the bar exam went viral, Kate Dwyer embraced the attention and interacted with hundreds of people about how to trust yourself and your journey. After working as a paralegal in a plaintiff’s attorney and immigration office, Kate decided to attend law school and develop more practical legal skills. So when Kate Dwyer failed the bar exam, then withdrew from the next exam, Kate had to change her career plans. At the time of the recording, Kate Dwyer was a fellow with the Center for Public Interest Advocacy and Collaboration, where she was a project manager and grant writer. Currently, Kate Dwyer is working as a program coordinator for refugee family reunification.

Listen to learn:

• How to trust yourself
• The importance of jobs where your JD is an advantage
• Why a paralegal would attend law school 

We also discuss:

• How to the bar exam affects your mental health
• Best career choices if you have a JD and an interest in immigration/immigrant civil rights
• Why you should forgive yourself for failing the bar exam

Kate Dwyer is not licensed to practice law. Learn more about Kate Dwyer:  

Twitter: https://twitter.com/kateelldee

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You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Support your favorite lawyer’s favorite podcaster and grab some You Are A Lawyer merchandise at shopyouarealawyer.com.

Morgyn Jones moved to Cincinnati to spend time in the big city. However, Morgyn Jones didn’t know that her first legal career would connect her with a mentor and the inspiration needed to obtain an LLM in data privacy and intellectual property. After working in patent prosecution administration, now Morgyn Jones is a corporate paralegal for a biotech company, a role that was created for her unique skills and abilities as a law school graduate.

Listen to learn:

• How to get over imposter syndrome
• The importance of using your law degree to improve your career
• How others can study law without earning a JD

We also discuss:

• How to find career mentors
• Best career choices if you have a JD and an interest in technology
• Why an LLM may be a better choice for you

Morgyn Jones is not licensed to practice law. Learn more about Morgyn Jones:  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/morgyn-a-jones-mls-543b06179/

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You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Visit https://www.podvoices.help to learn how you can speak up, take care, and spread the word.

Join the FREE mailing list and get behind-the-scenes content from Kyla.

1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com

2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR

3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen

4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Grab Kyla’s favorite books here: https://amzn.to/3FpCo2K

Jon Tobin is the founder and partner of Counsel for Creators, a law firm that protects the designs, creations, and intellectual property of creators. Jon left college to participate in the Dot Com boom, Jon Tobin used his design and software background to work in the tech industry. After gaining a thorough understanding of IPOs, business formation, and observing entrepreneurs, Jon Tobin decided to finish college and attend law school. Now, Jon Tobin focuses on business activities, like hiring and growing Counsel for Creators.

Listen to learn:

• How a college dropout created a niche law firm
• The importance of using social media to show your authenticity
• How law school is a great foundation for entrepreneurship

We also discuss:

• How to feel confident about opening a law firm 
• Best career choices if you have a JD and software background
• Why lawyers counsel their clients

Jon Tobin is licensed to practice law in California. Learn more about Jon Tobin:  

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/counselforcreators/

Website: https://counselforcreators.com/

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You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Support your favorite lawyer’s favorite podcaster and grab some You Are A Lawyer merchandise at shopyouarealawyer.com.

Join the FREE mailing list and get behind-the-scenes content from Kyla.

1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com

2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR

3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen

4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Grab Kyla’s favorite books here: https://amzn.to/3FpCo2K

Krista Contino Saumby became a patent prosecutor and worked at the big law firms that intimidate everyone. This happened after Krista studied mathematics, became an electrical engineer, and took multiple bar exams. 

After realizing that stress from her career was negatively affecting her health, Krista Contino Saumby worked with a career coach to determine what she wanted from her career. Now, Krista Contino Saumby is the founder of The Law Bridge.

The Law Bridge helps first-generation lawyers understand general professional skills and how to avoid major pitfalls in their careers. Krista Contino Saumby likes to say that she is helping new lawyers “navigate the invisible furniture” of this new culture. 

Krista Contino Saumby also serves as the Director of Career Services with Elon University School of Law. 

Listen to learn:

• How to work in patent prosecution
• The importance of taking the bar exam even if you don’t want to practice law
• How others can motivate you to become a lawyer or attend law school

We also discuss:

• How to assist first-generation lawyers with professional development
• Best career choices if you have a JD and an engineering background
• Why career coaches are beneficial to unhappy lawyers

Krista Contino Saumby is licensed to practice law in Minnesota, North Carolina, California, and the patent bar. Learn more about Krista Contino Saumby:  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bridgethelaw/

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You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Support your favorite lawyer’s favorite podcaster and grab some You Are A Lawyer merchandise at shopyouarealawyer.com.

Join the FREE mailing list and get behind-the-scenes content from Kyla.

1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com

2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR

3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen

4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Grab Kyla’s favorite books here: https://amzn.to/3FpCo2K

Terrance Pryor has an atypical legal career because he was an atypical law student. Terrance attended law school for five years as a part-time student, transferred from one school to Georgia State Law, and started working in two new legal fields before they were cool. 

Terrance is a former Division I football player and leaves a great impression on everyone he meets, which is seen in how he builds rapport with people and takes advantage of incredible opportunities when they appear. 

Now, Terrance Pryor is the in-house counsel for data and privacy operations at General Motors.

Listen to learn:

• How to transition from being a professional athlete 
• The importance of deciding what you want out of your career
• How to attend school part-time and work full time

We also discuss:

• Best career choices if you have a JD and an interest in technology 
• How to study for the LSAT in a short time frame
• Why your career doesn’t have to be your passion

Terrance Pryor is licensed to practice law in Georgia. Learn more about Terrance Pryor:  

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tpryor_esquire/, https://www.instagram.com/thecoalitionofblackamerica/

Facebook: @thecoalitionofblackamerica

Twitter: ​​https://twitter.com/Tpryor51, https://twitter.com/BlackCoalition1

Website: https://linktr.ee/TpryorEsquire

*

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Merch: Support your favorite lawyer’s favorite podcaster and grab some You Are A Lawyer merchandise at shopyouarealawyer.com.

MORE EPISODES YOU MAY ENJOY
How Career Strategists Help Lawyers Discover Their Passions feat. Michelle Thompson -

https://www.youarealawyer.com/posts/michelle-thompson-career-strategist-and-lawyer

Why Lawyers Should Podcast (and How To Get Started) feat. Robert Ingalls - 

https://www.youarealawyer.com/posts/robert-ingalls-lawpods-founder-and-lawyer

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Grab a book mentioned in this episode: https://amzn.to/3FpCo2K

Join the FREE mailing list and get behind-the-scenes content from Kyla.

1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com

2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR

3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen

4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!

Rebecca Larson became the owner and founder of Your Home Legal, a real estate law firm even though she had no interest in property law or real estate while in law school.  After a colleague asked Rebecca to cover their real estate closings for a few months, Rebecca Larson realized that she REALLY enjoyed real estate law and all of its nuances. Now, Rebecca Larson works on risk mitigation and management between real estate buyers and sellers.

Listen to learn:

• How to find the motivation to take the bar exam multiple times
• The importance of taking the bar exam in multiple states
• How to manage a small law firm

We also discuss:

• How to mitigate your risks in real estate transactions
• Best career choices if you are interested in real estate 
• Parent to child property transfers in California

Rebecca Larson is licensed to practice law in California, Virginia, and D.C. Learn more about Rebecca Larson:  

Instagram: www.instagram.com/_yourhomelegal

Facebook: www.facebook.com/yourhomelegal

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/rebecca-larson-realestateattorney/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKGo1-riFEUBpBLXITy6mcQ

*

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

ADVERTISER: Support your favorite lawyer’s favorite podcaster and grab some You Are A Lawyer merchandise at shopyouarealawyer.com.

Kyla Denanyoh is bursting with energy and excitement because of THREE huge things. 

First, there is a You Are A Lawyer newsletter that is released on the opposite weeks of the podcast episodes and you need to join it and find out what is happening behind the scenes with the podcast. 

Second, if you are interested in weekly You Are A Lawyer podcast episodes, let Kyla know all about it. Email kyla@youarealawyer.com and tell Kyla that you want WEEKLY You Are A Lawyer podcast episodes. 

Third, in celebration of Kyla’s birthday, Kyla wants you to tell five people about the You Are a Lawyer podcast. Not ten people, not one person, but tell FIVE people about the You Are A Lawyer podcast because this podcast is all about:

• Finding out why people went to law school,
• What people are doing in their current careers,
• Why do people change their minds about their careers, and
• Why people are doubling down on what they really enjoy.

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Kyla Denanyoh is a 2015 graduate of Southern University Law Center in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Kyla Denanyoh is not a licensed or practicing attorney. Follow the podcast:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Christon Halkiotis always knew that she wanted to become a prosecutor. After interning with the District Attorney’s office as a 3L, Christon Halkiotis excelled as a prosecutor where she participated in more than 300 bench trials and 35 jury trials. In 2019, Christon Halkiotis opened her law firm where she serves criminal defense clients. 

Listen to learn:

• How to be a zealous advocate for your client
• The importance of the personal relationships between lawyers and criminal defendants (and having a physical office for clients to visit)
• How to become a court-appointed attorney on the North Carolina Capital Defense Roster

We also discuss:

• The power shift from being a prosecutor to working in criminal defense
• The difference between bench trials and jury trials
• The prestige of being admitted to the Supreme Court of the United States Bar

Christon Halkiotis is licensed to practice law in North Carolina. Learn more about Christon Halkiotis:  

Instagram: @cshlawpllc.com

*

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh.  Follow the podcast:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Join the FREE mailing list and get behind-the-scenes content from Kyla.

1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com

2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR

3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen

4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Grab Kyla’s favorite books here: https://amzn.to/3FpCo2K

Jaya Saxena practiced law for a few years before working in law school administration and back to a law firm, but focusing on diversity, equity, and inclusion practices. Now, as the Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at The Brattle Group, Jaya Saxena creates strategy and acts as an internal consultant to ensure that DEI is represented in all aspects of the company.

Listen to learn:

• How Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) is a cross-functioning role, regardless of where the program is housed in a company. DEI is not strictly an HR function.
• The importance of focusing on what you can control to eliminate stress
• Why pre-law programs benefit law students 

We also discuss:

• How most careers are non-linear yet meaningful and beneficial
• Cultural pressures that motivate people to seek advanced degrees or attend law school
• Five-year undergraduate and Master’s degree programs at Carnegie Mellon University

Jaya Saxena is licensed to practice law in Maryland. Learn more about Jaya Saxena:  

Twitter: https://twitter.com/thezenlegalmama

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jayasaxena2010/

*

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Join the FREE mailing list and get behind-the-scenes content from Kyla.

1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com

2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR

3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen

4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Grab Kyla’s favorite books here: https://amzn.to/3FpCo2K

James Mattox III intended to become a parole officer before a college professor encouraged him to impact more lives by becoming a lawyer. James Mattox III started law school without knowing anyone who looked like him or came from a small town. Now, James Mattox III is co-founder of the law firm that specializes in personal injury, bankruptcy, and Texas family law.

Listen to learn:

• Advice for cofounding a law firm
• Why bankruptcy and personal injury law pair are complementary practices
• The benefits of virtual law firms for new lawyers

We also discuss:

• How bankruptcy and personal injury law interact
• Best career choices if you have a JD and want to own a business
• How an encouraging teacher can change your life
• The importance of getting honest advice when choosing a law school

James Mattox III is licensed to practice law in Texas. Learn more about James Mattox III:  

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carwreck_professor/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mattoxlawfirm

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/themattoxlawfirm/

Website: https://www.themattoxlawfirm.com

*

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh.  Follow the podcast:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

MORE EPISODES YOU MAY ENJOY
From First Gen Lawyer and Higher Ed Fundraiser feat. Jera Oliver -

https://www.youarealawyer.com/posts/jera-oliver-philanthropy-director-and-lawyer

The Importance of Mentorship for Lawyers feat. Anjie Vichayanonda - https://www.youarealawyer.com/posts/anjie-vichayanonda-leg-up-legal-founder-and-lawyer

Rho Thomas Wants Lawyers to Enjoy Life and Become Financially Free -

https://www.youarealawyer.com/posts/rho-thomas-money-coach-and-lawyer

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Grab a book mentioned in this episode: https://amzn.to/3FpCo2K

Join the FREE mailing list and get behind-the-scenes content from Kyla.

1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com

2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR

3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen

4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!

Sharon Christie began teaching women lawyers to run successful businesses.  After realizing that she no longer loved being a partner in a law firm, Sharon Christie set up her own law firm where she worked on disability cases. Now, Sharon Christie created Bold Women Lawyers, where Sharon coaches and consults with female lawyers with solo or small practices.

Listen to learn:

• How to create a social security and disability law practice
• The importance of leaving the law when it no longer suits you
• How to look at different areas of law before leaving the practice
• How to structure your life around traveling every quarter 

We also discuss:

• How to change careers from nursing to law
• Best career choices if you have a JD and enjoy teaching
• Why hiking through Europe could be beneficial to a lawyer
• How to be totally in control of your time

Sharon Christie is licensed to practice law in Maryland. Learn more about You Are A Lawyer guest Sharon Christie:  

Instagram: www.instagram.com/boldwomenlawyers/?hl=en

Twitter: www.linkedin.com/in/sharon-christie-3849961/

Website: www.boldwomenlawyers.com

*

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Join the FREE mailing list and get behind-the-scenes content from Kyla.

1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com

2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR

3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen

4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Grab Kyla’s favorite books here: https://amzn.to/3FpCo2K

Jolene Blackbourn ignored moot court, law review, and on-campus interviews; everything she could to avoid litigation. After a professor explained that Jolene had a knack for litigation work, Jolene Blackbourn found that she enjoyed the research and preparation needed for trial. Eventually being known as the “Trial Queen,” Jolene excelled when she worked in-house on corporate defense matters. Now, Jolene Blackbourn runs The Legal Learning Center, where she helps students graduate in less time and with less debt.

Listen to learn:

• How to find your debt to income ratio before attending law school
• The importance of examining careers before committing to law school
• How to use a podcast to become an author

We also discuss:

• How corporate defense lawyers help small business owners 
• Best career choices if you have a JD and enjoy mentoring
• Why you should research the salaries of lawyers in different roles

Jolene Blackbourn is licensed to practice law in California. Learn more about Jolene Blackbourn:  

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/legallearningcenter/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jolene-blackbourn-esq/

*

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh.  Follow the podcast:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Join the FREE mailing list and get behind-the-scenes content from Kyla.

1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com

2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR

3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen

4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Grab Kyla’s favorite books here: https://amzn.to/3FpCo2K

Devin Zito studied computer information before creating a company that wrote code for financial companies. After being encouraged by his wife to attend law school, Devin Zito studied as a part-time student in both the day and evening programs at Southern Law because Devin wanted to continue running his technology company. Now, Devin Zito is the Director of Information Services and Corporate Counsel at Assurance Financial.

Listen to learn:

• How to attend law school while running a business
• The importance of using your college credits to prepare for law school
• Why your solo practice should align with your existing non-legal interests

We also discuss:

• The impact of being an adjunct law professor 
• How an information systems background is a good foundation for law school
• Why keeping in touch with people is REALLY important (yay networking!)

Devin Zito is licensed to practice law in Louisiana. Learn more about Devin Zito:  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/devin-j-zito-1013593a/

*

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh.  Follow the podcast:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

MORE EPISODES YOU MAY ENJOY
How Career Strategists Help Lawyers Discover Their Passions feat. Michelle Thompson -

https://www.youarealawyer.com/posts/michelle-thompson-career-strategist-and-lawyer

Why Lawyers Should Podcast (and How To Get Started) feat. Robert Ingalls - 

https://www.youarealawyer.com/posts/robert-ingalls-lawpods-founder-and-lawyer

From Intern to Data Privacy Counsel feat. Terrance Pryor - 

https://www.youarealawyer.com/posts/terrance-pryor-data-privacy-counsel-and-lawyer

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Grab a book mentioned in this episode: https://amzn.to/3FpCo2K

Join the FREE mailing list and get behind-the-scenes content from Kyla.

1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com

2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR

3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen

4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!

Justin Stivers is the founder and CEO of The Probate Law Firm. Once told that he could do anything with a law degree, Justin Stivers went to law school after a non-traditional path. After living in Honduras with the Peace Corps and considering a career as a scuba instructor, Justin Stivers found that being a lawyer was a great career for him. 

Justin Stivers decided to use social media to teach others about probate law and estate planning. After challenging himself to create content every day for a year, Justin Stivers found that consistency and authenticity allowed him to reach thousands of people. 

Listen to learn:

• When to open your own law firm
• How financial advisors and estate planners work together
• Why philosophy is a great major for pre-law students

We also discuss:

• How to test-drive living abroad (hint: don’t quit your day job)
• Best career choices if you have a JD and philosophy background
• What to do if you are miserable while practicing law

Justin Stivers is licensed to practice law in Florida and Tennessee. Learn more about You Are A Lawyer guest Justin Stivers:  

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stiverslaw/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcIyGEpme0t_h2R73CdKOBw 

LinkedIn: ​​https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-stivers-289b38100/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/justin.stivers

*

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh.  Follow the podcast:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Join the FREE mailing list and get behind-the-scenes content from Kyla.

1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com

2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR

3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen

4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Grab Kyla’s favorite books here: https://amzn.to/3FpCo2K

Elisabeth Steele worked in the White House as a Special Assistant to Thurgood Marshall Jr. before attending law school. Then, Elisabeth Steele taught others through online undergraduate programs, where Elisabeth realized that a genuine connection could be built virtually. 

Elisabeth Steele recently left the University of Hawaii at Manoa, where she was the Director of Admissions. Now, Elisabeth Steele teaches educators and lawyer-types to communicate online.

Listen to learn:

• How to be confident through virtual conference platforms (Zoom, Skype, Teams, TikTok)
• The importance of choosing to do what you want to do
• How others can pivot in their careers

We also discuss:

• How to embrace your large personality and succeed
• Best career choices if you have a JD and enjoy teaching
• Why attend Yale Law School and not take the bar exam

Elisabeth Steele is not licensed to practice law. Learn more about You Are A Lawyer guest Elisabeth Steele:  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elisabethsteelehutchison/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elisabethsteelagram/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/ElisabethTweele

Website: https://www.elisabethsteele.com/

*

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh.  Follow the podcast:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

OTHER EPISODES YOU MAY ENJOY

How Sales Funnels are Changing the Legal Industry feat. Sam Mollaei -

https://www.youarealawyer.com/posts/sam-mollaei-legal-funnel-founder-and-lawyer

From First Gen College Student to Lawyer and College Fundraiser feat. Jera Oliver -

https://www.youarealawyer.com/posts/jera-oliver-philanthropy-director-and-lawyer

Why I Design Clothes and Practice Law feat. Robert Uy -  

https://www.youarealawyer.com/posts/robert-uy-pandamic-clothing-designer-and-lawyer

Grab a book mentioned in the podcast: https://amzn.to/3FpCo2K

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. 

Join the FREE mailing list and get behind-the-scenes content from Kyla.

1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com

2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR

3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen

4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!

Maya Markovich is the Chief Growth Officer at Nextlaw Labs, a legal innovation organization founded by Denton’s. After working as a change management consultant, Maya Markovich took her interest in technology to propel legal tech innovations. If you are seeking mentorship or want to discuss law and tech, contact Maya Markovich at maya.markovich@gmail.com.

Listen to learn:

• How legal innovation will make law firms become client centric
• The importance of project management in law firms
• How law firms can overcome the productivity paradox

We also discuss:

• Why legal innovation is client-driven
• Career choices with a JD and change management background
• How to build a network of people doing interesting stuff
• Why the legal industry is slow to change and modernize

Learn more about You Are A Lawyer guest Maya Markovich:  

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/MarkovichMaya

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/mayamarkovich/

*

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh.  Follow the podcast:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Join the FREE mailing list and get behind-the-scenes content from Kyla.

1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com

2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR

3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen

4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Grab a book mentioned in the podcast: https://amzn.to/3FpCo2K

Caroline Vickers became a coach for repeat and first-time bar exam takers.  After Caroline Vickers started coaching her friends who were taking the bar exam, Caroline Vickers noticed that multiple people had the same issues with their mindset.  After realizing that the confidence and mindset of repeat bar exam takers was lacking, Caroline Vickers created Bar Prep Champs and incorporated group coaching for participants.  

Listen to learn:

• How to change your mindset to pass the bar exam
• Why repeat bar exam takers have difficulty with the exam
• How to write for the bar exam

We also discuss:

• How the shame of not passing the bar exam will affect your future exam decisions
• Best career choices if you have a JD and enjoy teaching
• Why California allows you (and Kim Kardashian) to take the bar exam without attending law school

Caroline Vickers is licensed to practice law in Maryland and the District of Columbia. Learn more about You Are A Lawyer guest Caroline Vickers:  

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/barprepchamps/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/BarPrepChamps

Website: https://www.barprepchamps.com

*

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh.  Follow the podcast:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Join the FREE mailing list and get behind-the-scenes content from Kyla.

1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com

2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR

3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen

4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Grab Kyla’s favorite books here: https://amzn.to/3FpCo2K

Ali Awad became a social media mogul and edutains (educates and entertainer) others about personal injury law and how to excel with social media.  After realizing that Ali Awad was a natural salesman, Ali Awad found that his authenticity and natural acting skills attracted millions of social media followers.  Now, Ali Awad teaches others to build a brand online and Ali Awad manages a multi-million dollar personal injury law practice.

Listen to learn:

• How to attract clients from social media
• The importance of having a hustler mentality 
• How to build a business with nothing

We also discuss:

• Being Muslim and a lawyer
• Best career choices if you have a JD and enjoy acting
• Why Ali Awad wants to have the biggest law firm in the United States
• The CEOLawyer Media Summit

Ali Awad is licensed to practice law in Georgia. Learn more about You Are A Lawyer guest Ali Awad:  

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ceolawyer/?hl=en

Website: https://ceolawyer.com

*

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Join the FREE mailing list and get behind-the-scenes content from Kyla.

1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com

2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR

3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen

4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Grab Kyla’s favorite books here: https://amzn.to/3FpCo2K

LISTEN TO LEARN

• Why law school fails at teaching you to be a lawyer
• The importance of mentorship when choosing a law school
• Food deserts and how to advance racial equity in food justice
• What is a food consultant?

‍

WHAT WE DISCUSS

• How to create a dairy-free holiday meal
• Why a lawyer would create a YouTube channel
• Podcasts about food and agriculture, like the podcast Black in the Garden
• Why law schools should eliminate the grading curve 
• 
  

Candace Spencer was destined to become a food consultant. At eight years old, her mother discovered that Candace had a food allergy and Candace started the journey of living (and eating) dairy-free. 

When her father encouraged Candace to attend law school, this was a seed that would grow into Candace founding a food and legal consultancy, where she teaches others how to live empowered lives. 

“I tell everyone that law school sucks,” explains Candace Spencer. Candace shares how law school is a system not designed for everyone to win. The systematic racism and competition ingrained in law school makes higher education a difficult experience for Black people. But Candace Spencer endured law school and had no idea what she wanted to do after graduation. However, Candace quickly looked toward food advocacy, an issue that has always been a large part of her life. 

Honestly, food restrictions are very serious… but often overlooked by people who don’t experience them. This is why Candace insists on teaching others how to openly discuss their dietary restrictions and how to insist that friends keep their restrictions in mind when choosing restaurants and other events to attend. 

“I helped my friend create a dairy-free Thanksgiving menu,” shared Candace Spencer during the interview. I also teach others how to discuss their allergies without shame and how to use different phrases to mention their dietary restrictions. This is why Candace Spencer believes in food advocacy. After working for a non-profit agency, Candace then moved into a mediator role. Candace is passionate about teaching Black people how to run stronger farms and how to fight food inequities. 

Candace Spencer has a side hustle, where she works as a food and legal consultant. In her food consultancy, Candace empowers others to discuss their dietary restrictions and embrace dairy-free living. Candace created the YouTube channel, Spilled Milk, where she touts “There’s no crying over spilled milk… We weren’t going to drink it anyway.”

‍

EPISODE TIMESTAMPS

00:00 - INTRO

00:29 - Welcome to the podcast!

00:33 - Would you tell the audience about yourself, Candace Spencer?

00:58 - Have you always enjoyed baking? Do you like to bake everything? Where did this love of baking come from? I’ve watched your YouTube videos on the Spilled Milk channel. 

01:39 - You can be a baker and a lawyer. This platform is all about doing everything. Did you grow up enjoying sweets and did your mom use a lot of cookbooks when you were a kid?

02:42 - I read cookbooks because I find them relaxing. I have at least 18 cookbooks. Do you still enjoy cookbooks and have you found dairy-free cookbooks?

03:47 - Not following the recipe is very ‘anti-lawyer;’ you’re making things fit into what you want.

04:23 You went to undergrad and law school at the University of Florida. Did you enjoy law school?

06:33 - You have to find the practical courses in law school or you will only learn theory. I was lucky to find Southern University Law Center because I didn’t attend an HBCU in law school. 

07:30 - Discussion about how to find the right law school and being determined to leave your home state; Kyla ran from Ohio and Candace wanted to run away from Florida. 

08:41 - You were eight years old when you discovered your food allergy. Now you work as a food consultant. What do you do as a dairy-free consultant?

09:47 - So you are empowering people in being dairy-free. It is more than just getting a Whopper with no cheese because there are restaurants that butter their bread. 

10:45 - Let’s discuss your YouTube channel, Spilled Milk, where you mention “No need cry over spilled milk because we are not going to drink it anyway.” Why did you start the Spilled Milk YouTube channel and why is it so important to you?

12:37 - It is an important distinction that eggs are not included in being dairy-free. Dairy sections of grocery stores often include eggs and cheese in the area

13:10 - Jeni’s Ice Cream makes a lot of dairy-free ice cream options and it is so good and the calories are a lot less than the dairy-based ice cream flavors. Are you a fan of dairy-free desserts? 

13:53 - I love your platform because if you, Candace, can say that you don't eat dairy or I don't feel good when you eat dairy. But when you empower another person and that motivates someone else to speak up, then we can have a movement.

14:29 - You are currently in Washington, D.C. When brought you to DC?

15:14 - Is your current job food and agriculture policy?

15:34 - What does a typical day look like as a mediator for a nonprofit consulting firm?

16:15 - I am picturing you in an office, wearing a white lab coat with beakers and creating the reports that tell the public where there is a romaine lettuce shortage. Is this the case?

17:02 - This is very interesting because you don't work for the USDA and a mediation firm that works with the USDA. I am excited to be informing the public about food justice and the fact that food and agriculture mediation exists. 

17:53 - I’m listening to all the jargon that you have from being in this space! 

18:22 - I saw on your website, www.candaceaspencer.com, that you also do legal consulting. How is that going and is it also in the food space?

19:51 I love the look of your website. You mention that you want to “Bring justice to the food system for Black people.” Why this specific group of people and how do you bring justice to the food system?

21:38 You even have the privilege of being in food and agriculture, because I don't know many Black and brown people in this space. 

22:10 - I know you wouldn't have your legal consultancy without going to law school, but how do you think law school has helped with running other businesses and starting your YouTube channel?

23:09 - So you hated law school, even though you love being a lawyer. You said that you always wanted to be a lawyer. Did you always feel that way, or did you consider doing something else than looking at law school?

24:36 - I hope the audience is capturing that you can write your own ticket and do whatever you need to do to advocate in law school. Even though the law is a tool, you can be rebellious and put applesauce in a recipe if you want and who is gonna stop me?

25:12 - Is there anything that you would like to share about being a lawyer, what it takes to become a lawyer

26:20 - There is room to be creative in the law. 

26:30 - OUTRO - Thank you for listening to You Are A Lawyer. Rate the podcast and join the email list to get new episodes in your email inbox.

Candace Spencer is licensed to practice law in Florida. Learn more about Candace Spencer:

Website: https://candaceaspencer.com/work-with-me/

YouTube: How to Enjoy the Holidays Dairy Free!

*

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

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Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Listen to a podcast mentioned in this episode: Black in the Garden 

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David Orozco has not sat for a bar exam, but David has not removed the option of ever taking a bar exam.  David creates businesses and teaches with this same anticipation or expectation to be surprised by what will happen next. 

As an undergraduate student at New York University, David Orozco took a Civil Liberties elective in his final year of school.  This course piqued David’s interest in becoming a lawyer.  David quickly turned his initial fear of discovering case law and legal jargon into an appreciation for legal research and procedures. 

David attended law school at Northwestern’s Pritzker School of Law and he thoroughly enjoyed law school.  David participated in a number of organizations and worked as an editor.  David planned to work in a large law firm or on Wall Street, but David’s need to explore led him toward academia. 

After graduating from law school, David began a research fellowship at the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University.  After the fellowship, David began teaching at Michigan Technological University before teaching business administration at Florida State University. 

David Orozco is also the Editor-In-Chief of the American  Business LawJournal and co-founder of SettleShark, LLC.  SettleShark assists consumers and small business owners with settling their disputes.  David sees SettleShark as a consumer resource and activist tool to help the average consumer understand their rights and how to act with large corporations. 

SettleShark was created after David used demand letters to win thousands of dollars for consumers and David realized that this resource did not exist. Together with his business partner, Lonny, David uses SettleShark to level the playing field and educate the masses.  

David Orozco is not licensed.  Connect with David Orozco on Twitter @ProfessorOrozco and @SettleShark and on LinkedIn.  Contact David Orozco at info@settleshark.com for access to his article about TicketMaster and its marketing practices.

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

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If you ever daydreamed about leaving your job, grabbing your passport, and moving to a new country, Michelle Words believes you should and will help you prepare to do so.  Michelle Words lives an organic life; she believes that you make plans, plans change, you work with those new plans and see what happens. 

Michelle Words is an avid international traveler, business law professor, expat, and podcast host. Yet, Michelle did not embrace the thrills of travelling until she was in graduate school. Michelle obtained a Master’s degree from Clark Atlanta University, where Michelle studied finance. Then life happened and Michelle decided to attend law school.

After law school and working as an associate vice president of Bank of America, Michelle decided that she wanted to truly embrace life and get off the corporate “hamster wheel.” A Mediterranean cruise sparked Michelle’s interest in international travel; an appreciation that led Michelle to visit more than 60 countries. Although Michelle encourages international travel, Michelle encourages you to learn as much as you can about the culture, customs, and best practices before your plane leaves the States. 

Michelle has spent the last seven years living in Qatar and Saudi Arabia, teaching business law, and sharing her career experiences with undergraduate and business students.  Michelle inadvertently discovered that she truly enjoys teaching and using her work experiences as examples in the classroom. 

Michelle Words is also the podcast host of Flippin’ The Script! In each podcast episode, Michelle speaks with mature women about how they change their lives (e.g. their scripts) and encourages women to seek change, instead of settling for what is expected.  Flippin’ The Script is available on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music and you may find more information at flippinthescript.com.

Michelle Words is licensed in Wisconsin.  Connect with Michelle Words on LinkedIn and Instragram @flippinthescriptpodcast.

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

OTHER EPISODES YOU MAY LIKE
Rho Thomas Wants Lawyers to Enjoy Life While Becoming Financially Free -

https://www.youarealawyer.com/posts/rho-thomas-money-coach-and-lawyer

How to Knock Out the Bar Exam with Caroline Vickers - https://www.youarealawyer.com/posts/caroline-vickers-retake-the-bar-exam-like-a-champ

Why I Never Discussed My Yale Law Degree featuring Elisabeth Steele - 

https://www.youarealawyer.com/posts/elisabeth-steele-the-choice-to-not-do-something-is-a-choice-thats-valuable

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If you think having a law degree limits your creativity you haven’t met Katherin Hervey.  Katherin has worked as a magazine editor, a public defender, a film enthusiast, a holistic artist, a director, and filmmaker.  

After studying cross-cultural communications, which was a self-designed major at the University of Washington, Katherin found that curating her own degree was her way of diving into her interests.  Katherin was able to take women's studies courses, ethnicity, psychology and  sociology courses which motivated Katherin to pick up a camera.

Katherin Hervey attended law school at Loyola- Los Angeles and later became a public defender.  Katherin found the tradition, patriarchy, and hierarchical processes of law school to be stifling, and Katherin rebelled against most of what she saw in law school.  Law school inspired Katherin to wonder about the people behind the case law and find her own way to tell stories of others.  

Katherin’s interest in the background stories combined with her experiences as a public defender in California motivated Katherin to go behind the prison walls to share the stories of men on death row. Katherin wants you to know that the stories of the men behind the walls could be you, these men could be your brothers, uncles, or nephews.  

Katherin used language and terminology learned from being a public defender while appealing to the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation to gain access to the men inside.  Katherin’s mission in filming ‘The Prison Within’ is to show the empathy of the men behind the walls; show the work that these men are completing and showing their humanity.  Every person is on a parallel journey to healing and these men are not unlike the lives of those who live the outside of the walls.

Although Katherin believes that she would have taken a creative path regardless of attending law school, Katherin Hervey knows that she would not have created a project like ‘The Prison Within’ had she never attended law school. 

Learn more about ‘The Prison Within’ at theprisonwithin.org, and watch the film ‘The Prison Within’ on Tubi, Amazon Prime, iTunes, and Google Play.

Katherin Hervey is licensed in California.  Connect with Katherin Hervey on Instagram @theprisonwithin.

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

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What do you want people to say about you at your retirement party?  Frank Ramos wears multiple hats, but all of his activities and hobbies are centered around ensuring that his life is meaningful. 

Licensed in Florida, Frank Ramos is a litigation partner and has worked with the same law firm for 23 years.  However, Frank has diverse interests which range from being an author to mentoring lawyers to being a former podcast host.

Among his 18 other books, Frank is the author of a book called the Associate Whisperer.  Frank is empathetic with young lawyers in a way that resonates with them.  This book provides probing questions and assignments for these lawyers to determine where they want to be in life and ensure that they are in the right place. 

Frank Ramos created the website, Miami Mentor, to provide information about public speaking, trial skills, being published and even evaluating your law firm.  Most of these resources are free; services that Frank provides to the world for the purpose of giving everyone the opportunity to educate themselves in weak areas.  Frank has resources for law students, young lawyers and established lawyers because Frank has been in all of these roles and uses his experiences to teach others.

Frank Ramos also spends his time working as a purpose coach where he challenges people to look for their mission, their destiny or what they are supposed to do in their lives.  Frank is adamant that this self reflection is not only necessary as a new lawyer, but tenured lawyers may also learn about what motivates them.

Frank Ramos is licensed in Florida.  Connect with Frank Ramos on LinkedIn and at www.miamimentor.com.

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

MORE EPISODES YOU MAY ENJOY
How Career Strategists Help Lawyers Discover Their Passions feat. Michelle Thompson -

https://www.youarealawyer.com/posts/michelle-thompson-career-strategist-and-lawyer

Why Lawyers Should Podcast (and How To Get Started) feat. Robert Ingalls - 

https://www.youarealawyer.com/posts/robert-ingalls-lawpods-founder-and-lawyer

From Intern to Data Privacy Counsel feat. Terrance Pryor - 

https://www.youarealawyer.com/posts/terrance-pryor-data-privacy-counsel-and-lawyer

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In this bonus episode, podcast host Kyla Denanyoh is answering frequently asked questions from the podcast audience and social media.  Questions like:  

• Are you married to a lawyer? 
• Is podcasting your full-time job? 
• How do you find guests for the podcast?

Kyla gets help from her best friend Lauren to ask these FAQs and Kyla gets vulnerable and shares about her life behind the microphone.

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Join the FREE mailing list and get behind-the-scenes content from Kyla.

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Vernon W. Thomas is a member of the U.S. Army Reserve Judge Advocate General Corps (JAG), an Orleans Parish city prosecutor, a bookworm, former East Baton Rouge Parish public defender and has experience as a solo practitioner. Yet, Vernon did not grow up with aspirations to be a lawyer. 

Vernon grew up watching his father, Vernon P. Thomas, a 1979 Southern University Law Center graduate, run a thriving legal practice.  However, Vernon attended Dillard University with intentions to become a school teacher.  After numerous discussions with his father, Vernon realized that his analytical mind might enjoy law school.  

As a 2009 Southern University Law Center graduate, Vernon studied with a group of classmates for the bar exam.  While being too broke to pay for a formal bar prep course and having military-style discipline, Vernon endured a tenuous schedule and prides himself on passing the Louisiana bar exam on his first try.  After working in various legal roles, in numerous cities, and on multiple active duty assignments with the United States Army Reserves, Vernon is back in his hometown of New Orleans.

Currently, Vernon W. Thomas is a lawyer with the Law Office of Vernon P. Thomas; a role that Vernon inherited after his father passed away in 2016.  Vernon and his brother, Hunter Thomas, a 2017 Southern University Law Center graduate, both share the workload at their fathers’ namesake office.  

Vernon W. Thomas is licensed in Louisiana.  Connect with Vernon W. Thomas on LinkedIn. 

Follow the You Are A Lawyer podcast on Twitter @YouAreA_Lawyer, Instagram @youarealawyer, Clubhouse @youarealawyer, and on LinkedIn.  Follow the podcast host, Kyla Denanyoh, on Instagram @mrsdenanyoh.  Kyla Denanyoh is a 2015 graduate of Southern University Law Center (SULC) in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

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Dana Shaker has an intriguing career journey.  When Dana began law school, she was convinced that she wanted to work in policy and advocate for food practices.  However, the three rigorous years of law school led Dana to consider other options.  After taking the California bar exam twice and not passing the test, Dana listened to urging from her family and friends to take the D.C. bar exam.  Not only did Dana Shaker pass the D.C. bar exam, but it made sense for Dana to be licensed where Dana had multiple relationships and career connections. 

This meandering road to becoming a licensed attorney led Dana to working as a policy consultant in Sacramento, California.  The irony of working in the state where she originally wanted to be licensed is not lost on Dana. 

After rediscovering her enjoyment of yoga, Dana Shaker became certified in yin yoga and hosts numerous courses, in person and online, teaching others the benefits of yoga.  Dana finds that her background as a lawyer allows her to resonate with others in the legal profession.  Through her business, The Inward Journey with Dana Shaker, Dana entourages bar examinees and lawyers to journal and Dana lends a listening ear to her clients, when it's needed.

Dana Shaker is licensed in the District of Columbia.  

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

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What happens when two people nudge you to leave your job and you get approval from a respected colleague to do something else?  Emily Hirsekorn ran with these hints for her to pursue something else and Emily has created a career of encouraging others to challenge themselves.

Emily Hirsekorn was a corporate lawyer turned volunteer turned law school career coach turned energy coach.  Currently, Emily Hirsekorn offers weekly or biweekly sessions in energy support to assist emerging lawyers with their careers.  Emily explains that there is energy in how we show up and the things we are doing.  

Emily specifically works with entry level and new(er) lawyers, to address any workplace and career confidence issues before burnout can occur.  Emily has experienced being an overworked and stressed associate and Emily is resolute about preventing the experiences that she encountered from occurring with other lawyers. 

Emily is certified with IPEC (Institute for Professional Excellence in Coaching), which identifies Emily Hirsekorn as an expert in the coaching space.  As an energy coach, Emily offers energy leadership index assessments, which walk lawyers through the seven levels of energy.  In this time of finding your purpose and living authentically, Emily wants to challenge this notion and teach others to intentionally show up at work and in her career in a very specific manner.

Emily is excited to show lawyers that energy coaching is not about fantastical ideas of life or the “woo woo”, but to find your optimal self and acknowledge your energy throughout the day.

Emily Hirsekorn has an inactive license in California.  Connect with Emily Hirsekorn on LinkedIn, on her website Hirsekorncoaching.com and on Instagram @hirsekorn_coaching.

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

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Alban Brooke comes from a long line of lawyers; his father, grandfather, and great grandfather were lawyers.  Alban’s legal journey began in construction law, where Alban worked as a runner, then helped a coworker start their own construction firm, and eventually worked as a paralegal.  As an attorney, Alban practiced what he knew, which was construction law.  However, Alban realized that what he thought being a problem solver, streamlining processes, and ways to make himself invaluable were not traits that he loved about being a lawyer.  Those were traits of being a new(er) hire in young companies.  This spurred Alban’s comments about eventually leaving law. 

After law school, Alban would frequently tell his entrepreneur friends that he would leave law to work at their tech company.  After a couple years, his friends’ company was hiring for a head of marketing role.  When this job posting was mentioned to Alban, it was official: Alban’s bluff was being called.  True to his word, Alban decided to stop practicing law to work for Buzzsprout.  Buzzsprout is a podcast hosting company and Alban is in charge of technology, marketing, and researching software developments, among other tasks.

At Buzzsprout, Alban insists that every day looks different, with the exception of discussing podcasts, creating content (podcasts or YouTube videos) about podcasts and pushing the business forward.  While at Buzzsprout, Alban is unable to directly use many of the skills he learned in law school, but Alban’s legal education indirectly is present in many of his decisions and actions.   

Alban credits law school with teaching him to over prepare for meetings, training his editing skills to review an email three times before sending it out, and allowing Alban to enjoy the freedom to find assignments that suit him.  

Alban Brooke is licensed in Georgia and Florida.  Connect with Alban Brooke on Twitter @albanbrooke.

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

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Anjie Vichayanonda is a first generation lawyer who sought out lawyers to gain a better understanding of law school.  Anjie was connected with a wonderful mentor and followed her dreams to becoming a lawyer.  However, Anjie wants to make it easier for others to learn about law school and find mentors.  

Anjie created Leg Up Legal, which is a virtual mentorship platform to connect pre-law students to lawyers.  Schools may join Leg Up Legal to provide their services to students or individuals may use the Leg Up Legal app to be connected with lawyers and learn more before committing to law school.  Anjie also created a podcast, Leg Up Legal Podcast.

Anjie is a contributing author to the book, “Networked”, where a group of 20 women lawyers explained how their businesses or practices changed in 2020 while living during a pandemic. You may purchase “Networked” on Amazon and at tinyurl.com/networked.

Anjie Vichayanonda is licensed in the District of Columbia and has an inactive license in Virginia.  You may connect with Anjie on Instagram @leguplegal, Twitter @Leg_Up_Legal, on Facebook “leguplegal” and on LinkedIn.

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

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Krista Lynn wears many hats: she considers herself a “Recovering Superwoman” while Krista balances her career as a business lawyer with complex commercial transactions, and a mother. 

As the creator and blogger of “Recovering Superwoman,” Krista advocates for others who have faced any adversity in their lives.

Recovering Superwoman is a blog that was originally started from Krista’s personal journal, where Krista discovered that there was strength in not having to do everything herself.  People resonated with the vulnerability and authenticity of Krista’s, which has led to Krista being a public speaker and coach. 

As the Deputy General Counsel for Airbus OneWeb, Krista does not believe that law school prepared her to be an in-house lawyer.  The pleading drafting, legal research, and archaic property law ideals did not serve her well as a business lawyer, even though Krista took a lot from her law school experience. 

Krista Lynn was persistent that she would not become a lawyer, until she became competitive with her college boyfriend while he studied for the LSAT.  That experience coupled with Krista’s passion for business led Krista to attend law school.  Krista began and left law school knowing that she wanted to be a business lawyer and work in-house at a corporation or organization.  Krista knew what she wanted to do and she took a different path to get there.

As a mother, Krista finds that although her days are busy, she is immensely proud of her family and the strength they’ve exerted when tested.  Krista has removed the necessity to perform for coworkers, family members, her children, parents, etc. Although Krista believes that she can do anything, Krista learned that she doesn't have to handle everything herself.  

Krista Lynn is licensed in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, D.C. and Florida.  Connect with Krista on LinkedIn, Instagram @recoveringsuperwoman and read her blog, recoveringsuperwoman.com.

Follow the You Are A Lawyer podcast on Twitter @YouAreA_Lawyer, Instagram @youarealawyer and on LinkedIn.  Follow the podcast host, Kyla Denanyoh, on Instagram @mrsdenanyoh.  Kyla Denanyoh is a 2015 graduate of Southern University Law Center (SULC) in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

Josue Jimenez’ career is ahead of his personal schedule. Currently, Josue is the Assistant Director of Admissions, Josue travels the country to meet law students,  attend law school fairs, gives tours of the law school, advocates for law students, reviews student applications, and prepares various training materials to further the reach of Campbell Law.

However, Josue’s path to school administration began as a child when Josue knew that he wanted to be a lawyer.  As a child, Josue was passionate about helping others and staying involved in his community; a trait that was instilled in him from his parents.  This passion is prevalent in the pro bono assignments that Josue completes during his free time and Josue’s leadership as a faculty advisor for the Hispanic Law Student Association. 

As a law student, Josue did not have an interest in being a school administrator, let alone working at his alma mater.  But after graduation and working in various legal roles, Josue was presented with the opportunity to work as the Assistant Director of Admissions at Campbell Law. 

After some internal debate, Josue ultimately felt comfortable with accepting this new role because Josue could combine his passion for community with his experiences as a law student.  Josue leaned on his training as a Wallace Public Service Fellowship for Campbell Law participant, where Josue helped oversee all of the law school’s student organizations and pro bono projects. 

Josue Jimenez is licensed in North Carolina.  Connect with Josue Jimenez on LinkedIn.

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

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Nathan Sawaya was a corporate lawyer for five years and spent his evenings working with clay, paints, and other materials to release his creativity.  Eventually, Nathan picked up LEGO®-brand bricks and created an apple, then other items in his apartment and finally a sculpture.   Nathan’s talent with these bricks led Nathan to create a website to display his artwork. 

After his website, Brick Artist, crashed from too many visits, Nathan stopped practicing law to become an artist full time. Nathan Sawaya’s sculptures have been displayed in many art museums, Nathan has created LEGO Oscars®  statues for the 2015 Academy Awards, Nathan is a consulting producer on the LEGO Master show, and Nathan has founded The Art Revolution Foundation.  Nathan has been commissioned numerous times to create unique and incredible art from LEGO-brand bricks. 

While many people are familiar with LEGO-brand bricks, Nathan Sawaya has a partnership with LEGO that allows the company to send him bricks in specific hues and designs.  In his California studio, Nathan keeps at least 10 million LEGO-brand bricks available to him.  Nathan credits his law degree for preparing him to negotiate with large toy manufacturers and agents for his commissioned art.  

Nathan Sawaya was licensed in New York.  Connect with Nathan at 
https://www.brickartist.com

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

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Lori Mihalich-Levin believes that parenthood can make a person a better employee.  Parenting entails time management, project management, multitasking, prioritizing and budgeting, to name a few things.  When Lori was on maternity leave from her role as a medical reimbursement attorney, Lori created Mindful Return out of sheer desperation. 

After being unable to find resources to assist a parent into being a new parent and this change in their identity, Lori created the program to assist the new parent with this transition.  Employers are able to offer the program to their employees as a benefit when they are on parental leave. 

Mindful Return is an online program that assists people in transitioning back into the workforce after parental leave.  Each program is a cohort of parents with different employers.  Mindful Return is available for those who identify as moms, dads, are parenting special needs children, adoptive parents, and surrogate parents. 

There is also a manager track of Mindful Return which prepares a manager for the biggest differences when a team member is on leave.  You may register for Mindful Return as an individual, or connect your Human Resources department with Mindful Return.  Visit mindfulreturn.com for additional details. 

Lori Mihalich-Levin is licensed in New York.  Connect with Lori on Twitter @mindfulreturn and Instagram @mindfulreturn.

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

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Irnise Williams is a registered nurse, travel nurse, and practicing attorney. Originally from Connecticut, Irnise attended Howard University for her undergraduate degree and nursing school, then worked as a trauma nurse. Irnise was inspired to become a nurse after multiple positive interactions between the nurses who cared for her grandparents nurses and seeing what an impact those nurses made. 

After living in Washington D.C. while the Affordable Care Act was being drafted and discussed, D.C. was abuzz with all things healthcare policy and Irnise could not look the other way. 

With her background in nursing, Irnise wanted to explore the intersection of law and healthcare. After weighing the options of an advanced degree in policy or a law degree, Irnise was certain that she would have more opportunities with a J.D. 

Irnise is passionate about maternal health care rights, reproductive rights, and making sure people understand what health care is and what it can be. Irnise believes that when people understand what healthcare can be, they will be able to advocate for themselves within the healthcare system. Irnise Williams is the managing attorney of her own practice and continues to work as a travel nurse.

Irnise Williams is licensed in Maryland. Connect with Irnise Williams on Instagram @yournurselawyer and through her website, IWilliamsLaw.com.

Follow the You Are A Lawyer podcast on Twitter @YouAreA_Lawyer, Instagram @youarealawyer and on LinkedIn. Follow the podcast host, Kyla Denanyoh, on Instagram @mrsdenanyoh.  Kyla Denanyoh is a 2015 graduate of Southern University Law Center (SULC) in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

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To celebrate one year of consistency, pre-recording questionnaires, and editing audio files, I want to share five things that surprised me about podcasting. In this episode, I briefly discuss these topics:

1. I have cried about this podcast.
2. I miss the ignorance of being a law student.
3. “Niches make Riches.”
4. I can hear a smile.
5. This podcast is not only for law school graduates.

Thank you for listening and supporting the podcast.  

Subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and tell a friend about this podcast.

Reza Yassi wants you to change the way you think about hiring and legal internships.  His company, Attornneed, connects law firms and law students with assignment-based, virtual internships. 

As a 2L, Reza was contacted by a friend from law school and asked to complete a research assignment.  Reza took the idea and used it in the Hofstra Venture Capitalist Challenge and found that Attornneed was a viable idea.  

In his 3L year, Reza had friends and classmates join Attornneed and get connected with virtual internships of at least eight hours.  Small and mid-sized law firms loved the concept and law students enjoy the chance to experience different practice areas without a semester-long commitment. 

Attornneed is unlike many other virtual internships because the company is established; having the experience of providing virtual internships before this was trendy and Attornneed looks for reasons to say ‘Yes’ to an intern. 

Reza Yassi is licensed in New York.  Connect with Attornneed on Instagram @attornneed and visit their website, www.attornneed.com.

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

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Susan Guthrie was a freshman in college when she was involved in an accident that caused her to think differently about the legal process.  The lawsuit that was filed from the accident, was filed because of the accident, and Susan’s experiences with a lawyer caused Susan to find out the behind the curtain information about the law and why certain actions are taken, questions are asked, and why lawsuits have so much ceremony and procedure. 

After law school, Susan began working with a law office and shadowing a lot of different lawyers.  Susan found out that family law was a great fit for her skillset.  Susan is nationally recognized as a prominent family law lawyer, even though Susan was not interested in family law (or the way it was presented) while in law school.

While Susan enjoyed practicing family law for 28 years, Susan moved to California and created How to Mediate Online to teach people to create a mediation practice.  Susan is an advocate of making sure that the parties get to an agreement that is best for them and her courses are not only available to law school graduates, but to anyone with an interest in learning to mediate online.   

Not only is Susan the subject matter expert in mediation, but because Susan is sought out for her expertise in virtual training because she has been teaching and training in this manner for a number of years. Susan is also the host of the How to Mediate Online podcast and the Divorce and Beyond podcast. 

Susan credits law school with teaching her to think critically, appreciate the relationship of facts and logic, and how to think like a lawyer; skills she uses in the four businesses that she owns.   Susan Guthrie is the owner of Divorce A Better Way, the Mosten Guthrie Academy, and Learn to Mediate Online.

Susan Guthrie is licensed in Connecticut, New York, and California.  Connect with Susan on Twitter @guthrielaw and @divorcebeyond.  Connect with Susan on Instagram @susanguthrieesq, @learntomediateonline, and @divroceandbeyond.

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

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After being asked repeatedly if she knew a lawyer who did this, that or the other thing, Kisha Brown created Justis Connection to make it easier for Black lawyers to find clients and share their services with the community.  Finding that Black lawyers had to work twice as hard to build a book of business, whether the lawyer was in an established firm or private practice, Kisha solved the problem of how to refer lawyers to the community.  Justis Connection is a digital greenbook of lawyers. 

After Kisha Brown worked at Cravath, Swain and Moore as a paralegal and practiced in Baltimore working with non-custodial parents and advocating for fair child support, Kisha saw the great need for a legal network in the “DMV” (D.C., Maryland, and Virginia).  Kisha saw the law as an avenue to pursue her passions and know what the law says, use it, yield the law and craft the law to assist others. 

Although Justis Connection was initially created to spotlight Black lawyers, this company is a networking and referral service for all clients. Kisha hires interns to work with Justis Connection, where she can mentor them and teach them soft skills about timeliness, communications and how to become a better writer.  In the future, Kisha Brown expects Justis Connection to be the premier referral resource in the country. 

Kisha Brown is licensed in Maryland.  Connect with Kisha Brown on Instagram @JustisConnection, Facebook “JustisConnection”, LinkedIn and Twitter @JustisConnect.

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

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Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

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Robert Uy is a immigration and family law, domestic violence and human trafficking law.  This Filipino descendant grew up with intentions to become a lawyer, doctor, accountant or engineer; these were the only career options that his parents and grandparents allowed him to entertain.  

So it was rebellious when Robert decided to change from his pre-med college major into a history major who took an Asian-american studies course.  After participating with the Asian American Legal Center and Asian Pacific American Legal Development Program, Robert knew that he needed to advocate for others and believes that immigration law is the modern day civil rights law.  

While no two work days are the same for Robert, Robert found himself drawing and doodling when he was anxious.  When the interest arose for Robert to sell his creations, Robert decided to take his art work and share it with the world through pop art and street art motif designs. 

In 2020, Robert Uy created Pandamic Clothing Company to display his artwork and bring awareness to various social justice issues. Hoodies, mugs, shirts and bags display the street art and graphic motifs and a portion of the proceeds often go back to the social justice organizations.  

Robert Uy is licensed in California.  Connect with Robert Uy on LinkedIn, Instagram @pandamicclothing, and their website, www.pandamic.net.  Visit Robert Uy’s law firm website www.uylawgroup.com.

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

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Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

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Originally from Houston, Texas, Brianna Herman moved around to Tennessee and Austin for school, but found her way back to Houston to serve her community. While at Fisk University, Brianna worked in various public service roles which ultimately caused her to pursue law instead her original interest in business.

Brianna has spent her life chasing a spark.  A spark to do more with her life, a spark to advocate for justice, a spark to do more.  That spark led Brianna to study abroad in China before which led her to learn more about herself. The spark also led Brianna to the University of Texas to study law, where a Critical Race Theory course changed her life. 

Brianna is an advocate for passing the mic to the undervalued and under-resourced people in our communities.  Currently, Brianna is an Assistant District Attorney in Harris Country and is tasked with delivering justice to victims. 

Brianna Herman is licensed in Texas. Connect with Brianna on Instagram @ms.briannamarie.

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

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Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

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After being exposed to live theater at the age of five, Gordon Firemark continued to be impressed by theater, but he wasn’t an actor.  Gordon worked on various theater productions while in high school and later was a television producer for a sports media network, before becoming a theater producer. 

Gordon credits law school for the business acumen and better understanding about financing and contracts.  Gordon Firemark is the author of the book, Podcast, Blog and New Media Producers Legal Survivor’s Guide.

Gordon Firemark is licensed in California.  Connect with Gordon Firemark on Facebook at “podcastlaw,” on Twitter @gfiremark, and on LinkedIn at “gfiremark.”

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

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In this episode, Kyla Denanyoh thanks the audience for listening to the podcast and taking a chance with a niche subject matter.  

Kyla builds anticipation for Season Two of the You Are A Lawyer podcast which begins on February 4, 2021.

Get alerts when new episodes are released by visiting the podcast website, youarealawyer.com, and joining the mailing list.  

Follow the podcast on Instagram @youarealawyer, on Twitter @YouAreA_Lawyer, and follow the LinkedIn business page called "You Are A Lawyer."

Kyle Sherman attended law school because he enjoyed undergraduate school and wasn’t ready to leave academia.  However, Kyle quickly realized that he hated law school.  After a conversation with his mother, Kyle understood that he did not have to formally practice law with his law degree.  This pivotal moment propelled Kyle through law school and into his own firm. 

Tired of being a good lawyer and motivated to become a great lawyer, Kyle enrolled in the Gerry Spence Trial College… when he applied for the second time.  Attending the trial college inspired Kyle to become a trainer with Trojan Horse,  a program that teaches presentation skills.

Between litigating and jujitsu, Kyle also owns Trial Structure.  Trial Structure is a comprehensive plan that includes webinars, courses and content geared to assist plaintiff’s lawyers with presenting, taking depositions, and preparing witnesses. 

Kyle believes that being a more empathetic person will make one a better lawyer, because you must feel how someone else feels to be able to understand their perspective and persuade them.  

Kyle Sherman is licensed in Louisiana. Connect with Kyle on LinkedIn and visit TrialStructure.com for additional details. Visit BrandtSherman.com for more details about Kyle’s law firm.

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

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Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

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After working in entrepreneurial finance and Big Law for more than 20 years, Becky Morrison asked herself what would make her truly happy.  Becky worked as a litigator, before moving into a management role where she oversaw attorneys, litigation support staff and non-attorneys professionals.  This role reminded Becky that she really enjoyed managing people. 

During a time of transition, Becky worked with a career coach to narrow down her interests. Her experiences with this coach motivated Becky to become an executive coach. Becky is adamant that coaching is not being a therapist, but analyzing in a similar way that a lawyer would review facts. 

The skills that Becky honed in law school, such as analyzing case law, researching and issue spotting, were a wonderful foundation for working as an executive coach.  In this role, Becky works with legal and non-legal professionals to bring ideas to action, bring focus to a participants life, and address work-life integration issues.  Becky teaches her coaching participants that life is about more than simply chasing the next thing.

Currently earning an LLM in taxation, Becky finds that being a law school graduate allows her to be confident in creating Grantley Coaching and becoming an entrepreneur because legal background offers her familiarity with business formation activities.

Becky Morrison is licensed in Virginia and Washington D.C. Follow Becky Morrison on Instagram @the.butterfly.society, connect with Becky Morrison on LinkedIn, and visit her website, grantleycoaching.com to request a consultation.

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

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Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

PARTICIPATE IN BECKY’S COURSE:
https://www.untanglehappiness.com/5day

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Jay Coleman initially attended law school to become a prosecutor. However after law school, Jay moved to Maryland to work with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).  Originally from Memphis, Tennessee, Jay’s interest in policy caused him to seek a career in advocacy and he moved back to his home state.  

While deciding whether to take the bar exam again, Jay started a business, ColeScript Editing Services.  Through ColeScript, Jay utilizes his love of grammar to edit resumes, papers, write biographies, and offer tutoring services.

Jay decided to take the bar exam one final time with the condition that he would not work and would give his time and energy to preparing for the exam.  While waiting for the exam results, Jay applied for a job as a youth advocate in Covington, Kentucky.  

The advocacy job was a Juris Doctorate (J.D.) preferred job.  In this role, Jay works for the interests of children through a manifestation determination hearing.  Jay ensures that schools abide by the individualized education plans (IEP) for students.  With an IEP in place, a school cannot expel students without cause.  While living and working in Kentucky, Jay learned that he passed the Tennessee bar exam.  

NOTE:  As of the release of this episode, Jay Coleman is a staff attorney with the Center for Arkansas Legal Services in Pine Bluff, Arkansas. Jay represents clients requesting guardianship of family members, predominantly issues with children. Jay also  petitions the court to seal criminal cases, handles landlord/tenant issues, and represents clients who have been denied access to public benefits.

Jay Coleman is licensed in the state of Tennessee and Arkansas.  You may follow Jay Coleman on Instagram @fridayre_esq and follow his editing service company @ColeScript.  Contact Jay Coleman at colescript@gmail.com to request editing services.

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

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Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

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A native of Poland, Anna Radke moved to the States to become a fashion expert and take her knowledge back to Poland. Anna graduated from the Fashion Institute of Technology (F.I.T.) with a major in Fashion Merchandising Management and Anna’s interest in becoming an attorney was piqued by a F.I.T. professor.  

Anna used law school to practice English and perfect her writing, while taking courses in fashion law and fashion legal drafting.  Anna also earned a Master of Laws (LLM) from Cornell and completed coursework in topics like technology transactions, internet law, and intellectual property law.  Anna credits law school for teaching her organization and developing her personality. 

Anna Radke is a managing associate at Brand Counsel, previously called the Fashion Law Group.  Brand Counsel is a law firm that handles legal issues concerning art, media, sports, and tech industries, as well as corporate and personal brands.  Her career began as an intern with the Fashion Law Group.  As a managing associate, Anna reviews bylaws and corporate governance issues, files trademarks, protects trademarks and handles business immigration issues for creatives. 

Anna Radke is licensed in New York.  You may follow Anna on Instagram @aniaradke. 

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

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Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

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Erin Potempa-Wall is passionate about understanding the other side of an argument and situation. This passion led Erin to advocating for children, against evictions and was creating a vegan and cruelty free beauty brand. 

With an educational background in philosophy, Erin practiced law as a prosecutor and opened a law firm with a classmate. All of this prepared Erin for the challenge of creating The Beachwaver Co. and B. Bungalow companies, which Erin cofounded with her two sisters. The Beachwaver Co. has a line of styling tools and hair care products which has become an entire platform. B. Bungalow is a lifestyle brand with fragrances and clothing for adults and children.  

Erin is involved in many aspects of both companies; everything from logistics and marketing to brand strategies and patents. While law school gave Erin an understanding of contracts and negotiations, Erin says that law school taught her how to find her own voice. 

Erin Potempa-Wall is licensed in Illinois.  You may follow Erin on Instagram @erinpotempawall and follow The Beachwaver Co. @thebeachwaver. You can find Beachwaver products on beachwaver.com, Ulta, and Sephora. 

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

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Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

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Ruth Jeremiah was originally interested in public interest law.  However, her career trajectory did not progress as she planned and Ruth found herself working in document review for six years.  Although Ruth did not enjoy every aspect of document review (and later e-discovery work), these experiences taught Ruth patience.  

Growing up, Ruth enjoyed watching “Law & Order” and at the age of eleven, Ruth knew that she wanted to be a lawyer.  Although Ruth was interested in advocacy, legal aid, and immigration matters, Ruth had to fight to find a career that she would enjoy in Dallas.  

Currently, Ruth is a legal analyst with Thomson Reuters.  In this role, Ruth reviews sales and use tax laws, manages data for twelve of the 50 states, and works with accountants and other lawyers.  Law school taught Ruth to think analytically, although Ruth notes that she could have learned advocacy without attending law school. 

Ruth Jeremiah is a licensed attorney in the state of Texas.  You may connect with Ruth on LinkedIn.

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

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Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

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Andrea Sager moves at her own pace.  The day after graduating from college, Andrea became an Army officer and was married.  After thrift shopping with her husband, Andrea turned this relatively small act into a thriving Poshmark store then her own clothing website, and ultimately, a physical retail store.  In law school, between studying, giving keynote speeches at Poshmark conferences, and living as a new mother and wife, Andrea would fly to California to buy wholesale merchandise for her clothing store. 

After passing the bar exam and participating in the minutiae of being a new associate, Andrea decided to leave Big Law and use her experience to support small business owners.  Andrea sold her retail store, moved to Houston, Texas, and opened the Andrea Sager Law Firm in 2018. 

Through her virtual law firm, Andrea offers legal subscriptions to business owners; a service that provides all-access representation to her clients.  In the last two years, Andrea has become the go-to attorney for entrepreneurs, protecting everything from their brand names to their courses and blog posts.

In 2020, Andrea created the Legalprenuer podcast.  On this podcast, Andrea speaks with small business owners about the legal issues they have faced and Andrea shares legal necessities for small business owners. 

Andrea is a licensed attorney in the state of Kentucky.

You may follow Andrea Sager  on Instagram @andreasagerlaw and visit her website andreasager.com to learn more about her legal subscriptions and podcast.

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

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Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

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Fearful of breaking her word to her mentee, Neena Speer created ‘Step 1-2-3: Mentor for Life Initiative’ to ensure that she could continue mentoring with the same child.  Neena is a strong advocate of maintaining mentorship relationships because continuity is integral in a child’s life and Neena did not want to break her word. Neena welcomes listeners to start their own branch of the Step 1-2-3 program in their community.

Neena’s childhood inspired her to attend law school because she distinctly remembers disparities in busing different students in her neighborhood to various school districts. As a law student, Neena began journaling about her experiences.  This led Neena to write the book, “Dear Future Lawyer: An Intimate Survival Guide for the Minority Female Student.”  In this book, Neena explains the various people that one will meet in law school, the explicit biases that a student may encounter, and each chapter ends with a prompt for the reader to journal.  Neena focuses on her perspective being a Black and Indian student while enrolled in a predominantly white institution (PWI).

Neena is a licensed attorney in Alabama and manages her own law firm where she specializes in trademarks, copyrights, business formation, contracts, criminal law, family and general law.

You may follow Neena Speer on Instagram @neena_rani, her brand @dearfuturelawyer, her new venture @trademarkthursdays that brings attention to specialized and simplified trademark tips based on her experiences as an intellectual property lawyer.  You may also follow her law firm @nrspeerlawfirmllc and her mentorship organization @step123mentor.

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

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Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

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Deshani Senewiratne does not believe in linear learning for students or linear decision making.  Working as a federal judicial clerk, Deshani is observing the practice of law and helping other students gain access to graduate and law school through her company, GradAcheive.  With GradAcheive, members receive individualized course plans, study schedules and mentor relationships are offered between students and professionals, lawyers and judges. 

Born in Sri Lanka, Deshani discusses how being curious in life has led her to live in Chicago, Indianapolis, Philadelphia, and Irvine, California.  Her employment experiences range from working in “think tanks,” spending two years with Teach for America, advocating for special education students, and attending graduate school for Public Policy and Education.

Deshani Senewiratne is a member of the California bar association. 

You may follow GradAcheive on Instagram @GradAcheive, contact her at GradAcheive @gmail .com, and visit gradacheive.com to learn more about tutoring for graduate and law school admissions.

Follow the You Are A Lawyer podcast on Twitter @YouAreA_Lawyer, Instagram @youarealawyer and on LinkedIn.  Follow the podcast host, Kyla Denanyoh, on Instagram @kjd796.

Yladrea Drummond has found her legal education to be a great asset in the political arena.  Yladrea was the Deputy National Training Director for the 2020 Tom Steyer Presidential Campaign, where she trained campaign staff to organize and activate communities.  Currently working with DigiDems, Yladrea focuses on finding innovative ways to include technology in political campaigns, as the current pandemic means that we must look beyond phone banking and physically knocking on doors to reach with voters.

Yladrea is the founder of Capital Strategies, an organization that focuses on financial compliance with political campaigns and nonprofit organizations and minorities in other underserved communities.  

Yladrea is the author of “Through These Eyes: Surrendering the Ties of my Soul,” a memoir which will be released in September 2020.  In the book, Yladrea discusses multiple topics, including law school and her experiences after school.  Yladrea sat for the Texas bar exam.

You may follow Yladrea Drummond on Instagram @iam.yladrea_d and order her book at yladreadrummond.com.  Pre-orders are still available.

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

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As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Grab Kyla’s favorite books here: https://amzn.to/3FpCo2K

Yale Spector is a solo practitioner and operator of the L.A.W. Truck.  Yale spent a number of years working in civil litigation with medical malpractice and negligence claims, where he observed and learned how to open his own practice.  After being a solo practitioner for nine years, Yale decided to make law accessible to various people in Baltimore and Washington D.C. by creating a mobile law office.  

Created with the intention of meeting people in their communities, the L.A.W. Truck literally provides “Legal Assistance on Wheels.” Yale makes himself and the truck available at local events, state fairs, farmers markets, retirement communities, and other venues to answer questions from visitors who do not need an appointment. The L.A.W. Truck allows Yale to differentiate himself from other lawyers.

Yale is a member of the Maryland state bar, District of Columbia bar association, and the United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit.  

You may follow Yale Spector on Instagram @thel.a.w.truck and visit thelawtruck.com to learn more about the L.A.W. Truck.

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Join the FREE mailing list and get behind-the-scenes content from Kyla.

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As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Grab Kyla’s favorite books here: https://amzn.to/3FpCo2K

Jasmin Robinson, or Attorney Jas, is the creator of the Jas Talks Law brand.  Through her company and website, Jas Talks Law, advocates for cultural diversity in the legal field, hosts legal webinars, and produces content for social media and YouTube, all focused on promoting admission and success in law school.  Attorney Jas’ goal is to bring awareness to the fact that 5% of all lawyers are black.  Attorney Jas is licensed in the state of Georgia. 

Attorney Jas has assisted law students in obtained more than two million dollars in scholarship money and is the author of the following texts:  “From Maybe to Yes: Your Law School Personal Statement Workbook,” “From Yes to Yasssss: Your Law School Diversity Statement Workbook, ” “The Pre-Law Masterclass Workbook” and “The 1L Success Academy Workbook.”  Attorney Jas also assisted business owners with their various entrepreneurial needs, such as filing copyrights, trademarks, and registering their businesses with their state. 

You may follow Attorney Jas on Instagram @JasTalksLaw and YouTube by searching Jasmin Robinson.

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Join the FREE mailing list and get behind-the-scenes content from Kyla.

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As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Grab Kyla’s favorite books here: https://amzn.to/3FpCo2K

Brandi Mowles is known for helping her clients earn $10,000 a month from launching their businesses and consulting. And Brand Mowles needs to be fixed as an attorney. Find out how Brandi Mowles changed from wanting to become an attorney to working part-time and creating a million-dollar business. 

Why Law School

After double-majoring in history and international relations as an undergraduate student, Brandi Mowles attended law school to practice international law. Brandi changed her mind when she began thinking about the bar exam. 

Brandi Mowles attended law school in Alabama and rarely mentions her law degree, even though she enjoyed the competitiveness of law school. Brandi Mowles is confident that she did not miss out on anything by not taking the bar exam. 

What Can You Do With a Law Degree? 

Brandi Mowles explains that law school gave her the foundational knowledge to become an entrepreneur, understand contracts, and mentor other business owners. Brandi explains that law school also taught Brandi to stop comparing herself to others.  

Lawyer Side Hustles

Brandi Mowles created an education and marketing business that teaches other business owners to succeed. As an advertising strategist and business mentor, Brandi Mowles assists business owners in launching online courses or memberships with dynamic Facebook and Instagram ads. Brandi has so much experience in this space because she launched her ad strategy business to make over $200,000 a year as a new mother and wife. 

Brandi has launched online courses for podcast managers, YouTube managers, and virtual assistants to teach business owners how to serve, soar and scale their businesses. But the side hustles continue beyond launching businesses. Brandi Mowles also serves as a business mentor, where Brandi assists service-based businesses in scaling to become profitable without hiring a team. 

Brandi Mowles hosts the podcast, Serve Scale Soar, where Brandi makes it easy for freelancers and business owners to scale their businesses. The one thing that freelancers need is more time to research, find, and decide what information is valuable or useless for their business. Brandi Mowles is sharing information, systems, and marketing along with how to choose a client. These lessons are mandatory listening and will inspire any freelancer or entrepreneur to tune in. 

Join the FREE mailing list! 
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Brandi Mowles is not licensed to practice law. Learn more about Brandi Mowles:

Website: https://brandimowles.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandimowles/
Watch Brandi Mowles discuss her marketing business: https://youtu.be/FNU61Uilg-4

Listen to Serve Scale Soar with Brandi Mowles on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Grab Kyla’s favorite books here: https://amzn.to/3FpCo2K

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE THESE EPISODES

​​Why I Withdrew from the Bar Exam After Being Bullied into Retaking It featuring Kate Dwyer

Superwoman is a Myth! Why Asking for Help Made Me a Better Lawyer featuring Krista Lynn

How Energy Affects Your Work Performance As A Lawyer featuring Emily Hirsekorn

Ashley Roy is the executive business partner with the International Code Council (ICC), where she works on nationwide projects related to building compliance, recognizing essential workers, and identifying programs that are relevant during the pandemic.  Ashley is a licensed attorney in the state of Alabama.

Ashley originally entered law school with intentions of becoming an in-house attorney.  As the executive business partner, Ashley merges her leadership skills from law school with her in-house interest to work closely with the ICC general counsel during board decisions, senior management decisions and projects.

You may follow Ashley Roy on Instagram @ashleyroyyy.  

Follow the podcast on Twitter @YouAreA_Lawyer, Instagram @youarealawyer and on LinkedIn.  Follow the podcast host, Kyla Denanyoh, on Instagram @kjd796. 

Tramelle Howard serves as the external relations and policy manager with the Education Trust, where he advocates for equity for black, brown and low-income students in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.  Tramelle is currently serving District Three of the East Baton Rouge School Board, where he acts as the Vice President of that board. 

Tramelle chose not to take any state’s bar exam and he has not regretted that decision.  Tramelle's law degree has impacted his career in numerous ways, even though the trajectory of his career changed in numerous ways.

You may follow Tramelle Howard on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram @Tramelle.Howard, and Twitter @Tramelle.Howard.  

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Join the FREE mailing list and get behind-the-scenes content from Kyla.

1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com

2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR

3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen

4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Grab Kyla’s favorite books here: https://amzn.to/3FpCo2K

Christina Lael owns and operates Lael Tax, LLC, based in Fort Myers, Florida. Her business helps law firms and attorneys throughout the United States save money in taxes with her thorough knowledge of the United States tax code. Christina is a Certified Public Accountant in Tennessee and Florida and a licensed attorney in the state of Tennessee. 

Visit laeltax.com and sign up for the Lael Tax, LLC newsletter to receive a copy of a book chapter entitled Hidden Business Expenses. This chapter is written by Christina and will be included in a book co-authored by Christina about the tax code, called Thinking Outside the Tax Box. More details at laeltax.com. You can email her directly at Christina@LaelTax.com

Download the free "Lael Tax" app. Easily track your expenses, mileage and income in one app. Also includes financial calculators, tax information, financial news and much more!

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Join the FREE mailing list and get behind-the-scenes content from Kyla.

1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com

2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR

3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen

4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Grab Kyla’s favorite books here: https://amzn.to/3FpCo2K

Kyla Denanyoh is the Operations Manager of an intellectual property legal department in a mid-sized law firm; a role that was created for her unique abilities.

Her path to success was not as easily written as she would have liked; Kyla worked a number of odd jobs before being hired at a law firm and slowly advancing in her career.  However, much of the advancement arrived once Kyla acknowledged the value of her law degree.  The way that she processes knowledge, her work ethic, and many of her leadership skills were honed in law school.

The “You Are A Lawyer” podcast was created for those who, by choice or chance, are not admitted to a bar association or who are licensed attorneys who practice law in non-traditional ways.  

Prospective and current law students are welcome to listen and learn, as well as anyone who wants to transition into a new career. 

You Are A Lawyer is hosted by Kyla Denanyoh. Follow the podcast:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarealawyer/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/YouAreA_Lawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Join the FREE mailing list and get behind-the-scenes content from Kyla.

1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com

2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR

3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen

4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Grab Kyla’s favorite books here: https://amzn.to/3FpCo2K