186. What's the Secret to Empowering and Thriving as a Female Lawyer?

In this podcast episode, host Gary welcomes Erin Gerner, founder of Powerhouse Lawyers, to discuss her transition from big law to creating a company aimed at empowering female lawyers. They explore Erin's journey, the gap between legal education and practical lawyering, and the challenges faced by women in the legal profession. Erin shares her experience with imposter syndrome and the pivotal role her coach played in guiding her to support other female lawyers. Erin discusses the benefits of coaching, setting boundaries, managing overwhelm, and the transformative power of retreats and community for personal and professional growth. Erin emphasizes the importance of asking the right questions to gain clarity in life and career aspirations, and how community and connection can lead to thriving in the legal field.

Erin is a former attorney turned life coach empowering women in law through community and connection.

Challenges in the legal profession (00:00:41) The overwhelming experience of being unprepared in the legal profession, lack of mentorship, and the impact of these challenges on young lawyers.

Empowering female lawyers (00:02:44) The foundation and purpose of Powerhouse Lawyers, focusing on mentorship, community, and the unique challenges faced by female lawyers.

Overcoming imposter syndrome (00:04:26) Erin's struggle with imposter syndrome and how a coach inspired her to empower female lawyers, highlighting the role of coaching in personal and professional growth.

Recognizing superpowers (00:07:20) The importance of recognizing one's talents and abilities, overcoming imposter syndrome, and utilizing strengths to succeed in the legal profession.

Establishing boundaries (00:09:42) The significance of setting boundaries, prioritizing self-care, and the impact of boundaries on personal and professional well-being.

Managing overwhelm (00:11:28) Strategies for managing overwhelm, including brain dumps, time management, and organizing tasks to reduce work-related stress.

The impact of retreats (00:14:00) The transformative effect of retreats on female lawyers, providing a space for reflection, learning, and creating an action plan for personal and professional growth.

Worthiness and capability (00:17:34) Exploring the concepts of worthiness and capability, healing self-doubt, and building confidence through self-affirmation and recognizing achievements.

Becoming the CEO of your life (00:19:38) Practical steps to prioritize joy, gratitude, and self-care, emphasizing the importance of taking control of one's life and career.

Finding Joy in Life (00:21:41) Discusses the importance of finding joy, setting priorities, and making time for personal fulfillment.

Mindset Obstacles for Women Lawyers (00:22:07) Addresses common mindset obstacles faced by women lawyers, such as feeling incapable and getting stuck in the "how."

The Power of Asking "Who" (00:23:24) Explains the shift from asking "how" to asking "who" in achieving goals and overcoming obstacles.

Advice for Struggling Women Lawyers (00:25:29) Provides advice for women lawyers struggling to find happiness and fulfillment in their careers.

Empowerment through Community and Connection (00:28:22) Discusses the transformative impact of community and connection in empowering women lawyers.

Would you like to learn more about Breaking Free or order your own copy? https://www.garymiles.net/break-free