The Free Lawyer

In this podcast episode, host Gary interviews Sharif Gray, a personal injury attorney from Virginia, who shares his path from VMI valedictorian to law school, military service, and his current legal practice. Gray discusses the influence of his godfather and the film "A Few Good Men" on his career choice, his dedication to helping people through personal injury law, and the significance of a major case victory. He also talks about the challenges young lawyers face, including gaining trial experience and managing student debt, while emphasizing the importance of passion and authenticity in the legal field. Gray reflects on the personal fulfillment he derives from making a difference in clients' lives and the freedom that comes with running his own practice. First Major Jury Verdict (00:15:31) Sharif's million and a half dollar trip and fall case, the intentional framing of the case, and the confidence gained from the successful trial. Keys to Being an Excellent Plaintiff's Trial Attorney (00:17:33) The importance of framing the case, capitalizing on defense missteps, and positioning the plaintiff as a victim of the defendant's actions. Building a Practice and Developing Business (00:19:38) Sharif's diverse strategies for business development, including referrals, digital presence, networking, and creating a broad net for opportunities. Challenges faced by young lawyers (00:21:48) Sharif Gray discusses the financial burden of law school debt and the limited options for gaining trial experience as a young lawyer. Sharif is a trial lawyer and a partner at Blackburn, Conte, Schilling & Click. He tried cases as a United States Army JAG Officer and as a Drug and Vice Prosecutor, served as a Federal Judicial Law Clerk at a trial court, and now takes cases to trial as a personal injury and criminal defense lawyer. There is nothing more professionally exciting for Sharif than preparing for and going to trial. And there is no greater privilege for Sharif than getting results for his clients.  Sharif cares deeply about his work and the people he represents. His record is evidence of this: in the Army, he successfully defended hundreds of soldiers at trial, in adverse administrative proceedings, and under investigation; as a prosecutor, he pursued justice for victims and earned a reputation among judges and defense attorneys for being persuasive and fair; and as a personal injury lawyer, he has won millions of dollars in verdicts and settlements.  Sharif graduated valedictorian and as a distinguished military graduate from the Virginia Military Institute. Among other honors, his class elected him to serve as a prosecutor on VMI’s Honor Court, where he prosecuted honor offenses and first discovered his love for trial work.  Sharif received his law degree from the University of Virginia. During law school, he served on the Virginia Journal of Criminal Law’s Managing Board; led an Army Reserve Drill Sergeant Unit; and clerked for the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia, the Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office, and the United States Solicitor General’s Office.  Sharif earned his masters of law degree in trial advocacy from the Temple University Beasley School of Law, which has consistently been ranked as the nation’s top trial training program for more than twenty years.  Sharif also graduated from the Gerry Spence Method — the premier training for trial lawyers who represent people.  Away from work, Sharif enjoys spending time with his wife and son, learning songs on his acoustic guitar, playing on a kickball team, and working out each morning at a CrossFit gym.  Sharif also operates RVA Personal Injury Lawyers and UCMJ Trial Lawyers, and he co-hosts the RVA Trial Lawyers Podcast. Would you like to learn more about Breaking Free or order your own copy? https://www.garymiles.net/break-free

In this podcast episode, host Gary discusses the importance of living in the present for achieving personal freedom and professional success. They introduce their book "Breaking Free," offering insights and tools to help listeners embrace the power of now. The episode focuses on the benefits of mindfulness and present-moment awareness, particularly for lawyers dealing with high stress. Practical advice is given on how to cultivate a present-focused mindset, which can lead to better relationships, decision-making, and productivity. Personal anecdotes reinforce the message, encouraging a transformative journey towards embracing the present. Living in the Present (00:01:09) Importance of focusing on the present moment for personal freedom and happiness. Challenges of Living in the Present (00:02:18) The difficulties of living in the present in a high-stress profession, such as law. Benefits of Living in the Present (00:03:33) The positive impact of living in the present, including stress reduction and improved well-being. Professional Effectiveness (00:10:46) How living in the present enhances professional effectiveness, communication, and decision-making. Tools for Living in the Present (00:15:17) Practical tools and strategies for staying present in daily life and work. Would you like to learn more about Breaking Free or order your own copy? https://www.garymiles.net/break-free

In this podcast episode, Gary interviews Rachel Clar, founder and CEO of Interconnected Us, a company providing an online community and peer mastermind groups for women lawyers. They discuss Rachel's career transition from law to real estate development, and her passion for creating a supportive space for women lawyers. Rachel highlights the challenges women lawyers face, including self-doubt, work-life balance, and societal expectations. She emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries and delegating tasks effectively. Rachel also shares how her company helps women lawyers find their community, and the positive impact this has on their careers.  Challenges women lawyers face (00:08:48) Rachel discusses the unique challenges women lawyers face, including being mothers and the socialization to play nice in the professional environment. The importance of boundaries for women lawyers (00:10:31) Rachel discusses the significance of setting boundaries for women lawyers and how it can be a game changer for their success and well-being. Challenging the lack of a clear path to success for women lawyers (00:13:17) Rachel shares the story of a junior partner in a law firm who is struggling with the lack of guidance on how to advance in her career, highlighting the need for boundaries in challenging the system. Delegating and the fear of letting go (00:16:05) Rachel talks about the challenges lawyers face when it comes to delegating tasks and how it relates to boundaries, growth mindset, and the importance of creating talent in others. Delegating and Boundaries (00:18:56) Rachel and Gary discuss the connection between delegating and boundaries, and how it impacts leadership and coaching. Rachel Clar, Esq. is Founder and CEO of Interconnected Us, which is an online private community for female lawyers to meet in confidence and ask the questions they need answered to get off the hamster wheel of endless "productivity" and start making it rain. Interconnected Us offers a monthly membership option, and peer-to-peer mastermind groups where women lawyers meet regularly with their cohort (those who work in a similar work environment (i.e. BigLaw associates, Solo firm owners, etc.) bimonthly to discuss private challenges that are harder to address in public. Before founding Interconnected Us, Rachel worked in the real estate development sector, developing affordable housing and solar arrays. Her professional experience in developing business relationships, combined with her personality style and deep inner healing work, give her a unique perspective which she uses to create inclusive, welcoming spaces for women lawyers to ask, and get answers, to the questions they need to advance professionally. Rachel is passionate about helping progressive women lawyers envision the lives they want and then strategize alongside their peers to make their vision become a reality. Rachel calls herself a "Compassionate Disruptor" and feels a responsibility to use her voice to shift the status quo. In 2022, she joined the ABA Law Practice Division's Women Rainmakers Committee, and in 2023 she was appointed to join the ABA Law Practice Division's Client Development Committee. She is a committed, lifelong learner, community leader and community builder. Connect with Rachel through LinkedIn at http://www.linkedin.com/in/rachelclar/.  Learn more about how Interconnected Us can help you grab the steering wheel of your legal career at https://www.interconnectedus.com. You may order your copy of Breaking Free here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CPKSQ59R

In this podcast episode, lawyer and author Gary Miles discusses the critical role of goal-setting for lawyers. He introduces his book "Breaking Free," which addresses overcoming mental barriers to success. Gary emphasizes the benefits of goal setting, including direction and stress reduction, while acknowledging common obstacles like overwhelm and unrealistic expectations. He offers a series of questions to aid lawyers in setting practical goals. He outlines ten steps to achieve them, stressing the importance of aligning goals with personal values for authenticity and satisfaction in one's legal career. Gary encourages lawyers to set goals for personal and professional growth intentionally. Would you like to learn more about Breaking Free or order your own copy? https://www.garymiles.net/break-free Benefits of Goal Setting (00:03:47) Exploration of the benefits of goal setting, including direction, motivation, accountability, stress reduction, long-term vision, and stress reduction. Hurdles in Goal Setting (00:06:22) Identification of potential roadblocks to goal setting, such as overwhelm, lack of clarity, unrealistic expectations, lack of accountability, perfectionism, and short-term focus. Critical Questions for Goal Setting (00:10:43) Key questions to consider when setting goals, including career objectives, obstacles, areas for improvement, strengths and weaknesses, and values alignment. Aligning Goals with Values (00:16:24) The importance of aligning goals with personal values for authenticity, motivation, clarity of purpose, informed decision-making, resilience, well-being, reduced burnout, and long-term satisfaction. Steps for Goal Setting (00:20:30) Ten steps for setting goals, including reflecting on the past year, defining long-term objectives, identifying areas for improvement, setting specific goals, establishing deadlines, seeking support, anticipating challenges, aligning with values, holding oneself accountable, and maintaining work-life balance.

In this episode of "The Free Lawyer" podcast, host Gary interviews Mike Ashabraner, a financial coach known as the "Redneck Coach". Despite a challenging upbringing and financial setbacks, Mike shares how he turned his life around with the help of a mentor. They discuss the importance of networking, collaboration, and mentorship in achieving success. Mike, who grew up in a trailer park, now helps others achieve financial independence. He emphasizes the power of LinkedIn in building authentic relationships and the role of coaching in growing professionally. The episode concludes with a discussion on the power of collaboration over competition. The importance of mentorship and collaboration (00:08:56) Mike emphasizes the significance of having mentors, coaches, and surrounding oneself with brilliant people for success. The power of personal branding (00:16:20) Mike explains how having a strong personal brand, like being the "redneck coach," can set someone apart and attract the right audience. The importance of branding (00:17:42) Discussion about how branding helps to establish identity and attract the right clients. Authenticity in branding (00:18:25) Emphasizing the importance of being true to oneself and not trying to be different just for the sake of it. The power of LinkedIn (00:20:52) Exploring the benefits of using LinkedIn to build authentic and mutually beneficial relationships for business growth. Collaboration and Building Relationships (00:27:33) Gary and Mikle discuss the importance of collaboration, building relationships, and helping others without expecting anything in return. They highlight the benefits of networking and how it leads to opportunities and trust. Mike Ashabraner grew up poor, in the foothills of Kentucky.  He was taught the importance of a good education and work ethic, and always had a knack for bringing people together. Despite these admirable qualities, in 2010 he found himself in the tough spot many Americans have faced…bankruptcy.  He immediately reached out to a financial advisor, who quickly became a mentor, and helped him turn his life around.  He even encouraged him to leverage his own experience to become a financial coach and help others.  That business rapidly grew, and Mike found himself at the center of another major epiphany.  People were enthralled by his ‘down to earth advice’ and endearing ‘redneck’ persona.  Every day he woke up to messages from strangers who had become fast friends, expressing gratitude for his guidance and inspiration.  That’s actually how he became known as the Redneck Financial Coach.     Today, Mike serves as an unconventional advisor who helps established entrepreneurs grow their net worth through his network. His Redneck Coach title is the perfect description for his straight shootin’ strategies and down to earth advice.  He’s recognized for pioneering a lively and loyal online community called the Hounds of Business, and has created the Hound Pack Principles that give his clients immediate access to an instant community.  He’s a multi-certified financial advisor known for helping his clients fund their future and multiply their money.  And of course, he’s world famous for his camouflage cap and cool country proverbs that leave crowds calling for an encore.   Mike Ashabraner Social Media Links https://www.linkedin.com/in/redneck1/ https://www.youtube.com/@houndsofbusiness https://www.redneckfinancialcoach.com You may order your copy of Breaking Free here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CPKSQ59R

In this podcast episode, Gary delves into the profound role of forgiveness in enhancing personal freedom and professional advancement. Drawing from personal experiences, Gary explains that forgiveness is a deliberate choice to let go of resentment, not to condone wrongdoing but to liberate oneself from negative emotions. He discusses the necessity of forgiveness in legal settings, pointing out how grudges can impede growth. The episode covers the myriad benefits of forgiveness, from better health to improved problem-solving, and provides actionable advice for practicing forgiveness, including empathy and boundary-setting. His final message is an inspiring call for a more compassionate and collaborative legal community. Would you like to overcome stress worry and confusion? Check out my first book, "Breaking Free." Would you like to learn more about Breaking Free or order your own copy? https://www.garymiles.net/break-free

Such an important episode! In this podcast episode, former big law attorney Brooke Welch discusses her personal struggle with alcoholism and the high-stress culture of the legal profession. She shares her journey to recovery and her passion for transforming the legal workplace culture. The conversation also touches on the prevalence of substance abuse among lawyers, the importance of mental health, and the need for more supportive and inclusive work environments. Brooke also talks about her upcoming essay in the book "Her Story," which focuses on resilience and women attorneys overcoming obstacles. The episode concludes with potential solutions for lawyers struggling with similar issues. Brooke Welch is an attorney and Founder of Tiny Adventures Path, a woman-owned consultancy. She works with organizations to support well-being and DEI-B, while reducing risk and attrition, with a specialization in workplace alcohol culture. Brooke brings her lived experience of 16 years of Recovery for alcohol use disorder and mental health challenges. She is also the Founder of the Alcohol-Free Tiny Adventures Social Group in Richmond, Virginia with almost 500 members and 100+ events. Brooke is active in law school programming for the Institute for Well-being in Law (IWIL) and serves as Vice-Chair of the DEI-B Committee for the ABA Law Practice Division. Her legal career spans from BigLaw litigation to non-profit humanitarian immigration law. Brooke is a graduate of the University of Virginia School of Law and Fletcher School of Law & Diplomacy (Tufts University). Connect with Brooke at tiny-adventures.com, brooke@tiny-adventures.com and LinkedIn.  You can read Brooke’s essay, “From Trust to Fear: Lessons From My Recovery for the Legal Community,” in the newly-published American Bar Association “Her Story: The Resilient Woman Lawyer’s Guide to Conquering Obstacles, Book 2” You may order your copy of Breaking Free here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CPKSQ59R

In this podcast episode, Gary encourages listeners to reflect on the past year with gratitude, emphasizing its role in personal growth, strengthening relationships, and motivation. Sharing personal accomplishments, including his legal counsel role, business development, and the release of his first book, Gary expresses appreciation for the support received. He also highlights the challenges and rewards of the legal profession. Looking forward, the speaker urges listeners to learn from the past and set future goals, wishing them a joyful holiday season and a prosperous new year. Reflecting on 2023 (00:00:02) Importance of reflecting on the past year, setting goals, and expressing gratitude for accomplishments and unexpected gifts. The significance of reflecting with gratitude (00:01:29) Exploring the importance of reflecting with gratitude on achievements and unexpected gifts, including fostering a positive mindset, encouraging personal growth, and strengthening relationships. Encouragement to reflect and set goals for the new year (00:15:55) The speaker encourages listeners to reflect on the past year, learn from it, and make changes and improvements for the upcoming year. You may order your copy of Breaking Free here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CPKSQ59R

In this podcast episode, host Gary interviews Katherine Porter, founder of The Resourceful Lawyer. Katherine shares her journey from working at a law firm to discovering her passion for project management. She explains how she used the project management tool, ClickUp, to improve efficiency in a sexual abuse mast tort case at a law firm. Katherine defines legal project management and discusses its benefits for lawyers, including improved efficiency and transparency. She also talks about the challenges of implementing new software tools in law firms and the importance of gaining buy-in for successful implementation. Finally, Katherine shares why she named her business The Resourceful Lawyer. In her role as the founder and principal consultant at The Resourceful Lawyer, Katherine has emerged as a trailblazer, spearheading innovative project management solutions tailored specifically for law firms. Her commitment to actively managing legal projects has not only streamlined operations but has also significantly enhanced profitability for the firms she collaborates with.  Katherine brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table.  She earned her law degree at UCLA and is a seasoned attorney with over two decades of experience. Coupled with certification as a Project Management Professional (PMP), she seamlessly blends legal acumen with a passion for optimizing law firm operations. You may order your copy of Breaking Free here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CPKSQ59R

In this podcast episode, host Gary discusses the topic of burnout, its causes, and warning signs, which were the focus of the previous episode. He then introduces 12 steps to prevent and overcome burnout, including seeking professional guidance, celebrating achievements, reflecting on career goals, communicating needs, taking regular breaks, and setting boundaries between work and personal life. He emphasizes that burnout is not inevitable and can be prevented with these steps. Are you interested in purchasing his new book "Breaking Free?" It is now available on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CPKSQ59R