The Free Lawyer

In this podcast episode, former attorney Jay Harrington discusses his transition from practicing law to consulting and coaching lawyers and law firms. He emphasizes the importance of business development, strategy, and execution for lawyers and advises them to view themselves as CEOs of their practices. Harrington also highlights the significance of creating thought leadership content that educates and adds value to the audience. He suggests that lawyers should aim for small, incremental efforts in business development to avoid burnout. The episode concludes with Harrington defining his personal freedom as having the ability to do work he enjoys, live where he wants, and pursue his passions. Jay Harrington is a consultant, coach, and trainer to the legal industry and the owner of Harrington Communications, a leading thought-leadership PR and marketing agency specializing in helping law firms and lawyers build awareness, influence, and new business. Jay is the author of three books for lawyers on issues related to business and professional development, including “The Productivity Pivot,” “The Essential Associate,” and “One of a Kind: A Proven Path to a Profitable Practice.” He podcasts at The Thought Leadership Project and writes a weekly email newsletter. Previously, he practiced law at Skadden Arps and Foley & Lardner.  Would you like to sign up to be on the waitlist for Breaking Free? You can sign up here: https://upbeat-trailblazer-9238.ck.page/ab08c861d9

In this podcast episode, host Gary discusses the issue of burnout in the legal profession, its causes, symptoms, and consequences. He highlights factors such as workload, financial pressure, and professional success leading to burnout, and its signs like exhaustion, decreased performance, and emotional instability. He also discusses the physical and mental health risks, professional damage, and personal life issues that can arise from burnout. He encourage listeners to manage their well-being, reflect on their values, and overcome burnout. Are you interested in getting a copy of "Breaking Free," which is available today? There is special pricing this week only. You can order here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CPKSQ59R

In this podcast episode, host Gary interviews high-performance coach Stephanie Hessler. Stephanie shares her journey from investment banking to starting her own business and how a mentor helped her understand the concept of self-image. She now helps clients overcome limitations and achieve success. They discuss common challenges clients face, such as stepping into leadership roles and making time for personal growth. Stephanie provides tips on managing overwhelm, including getting organized, meditating, delegating, and seeking support. They also discuss the importance of self-image, authenticity, and avoiding harmful comparisons.  Stephanie Hessler is a High-Performance Coach. She helps high-achieving leaders who want to rapidly advance their careers and create a vision others want to follow but are tired of feeling stuck. Therefore, Stephanie guides her clients through a transformational coaching journey called the BLISS Accelerator to turn their goals and dreams into reality. Previously, she worked in the investment business, including on Wall Street, for sixteen years. She earned her MBA at The Wharton School and her BA at Wellesley College. You can reach Stephanie here: Stephanie@StephanieHesslerCoach.com LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephaniehessler/ Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/stephaniehesslerlive/ Facebook Group:https://www.facebook.com/groups/555055648565012 YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@StephanieHesslerLive Would you like to sign up to be on the waitlist for Breaking Free? You can sign up here: https://upbeat-trailblazer-9238.ck.page/ab08c861d9

Host Gary provides tangible tools to incorporate compassion into your law practice in this podcast episode. He discusses the importance of compassion in the legal profession. He emphasizes that incorporating compassion into their practice can lead to better relationships, successful case resolutions, and personal fulfillment. He suggests that lawyers practice self-compassion, discard envy and judgment, and actively listen to their clients. He also recommends journaling to reflect on interactions, identifying improvement areas, and seeking mentorship from compassionate individuals. The episode concludes with the speaker urging lawyers to understand their clients' feelings and find ways to serve them best. You will find that you will enjoy greater fulfillment and personal freedom when you become a more compassionate lawyer. Would you like to sign up to be on the waitlist for Breaking Free? You can sign up here: https://upbeat-trailblazer-9238.ck.page/ab08c861d9

In this podcast episode, host Gary interviews Victoria Collier, a former military paralegal turned law firm owner who now specializes in helping lawyers transition out of their practices. They discuss Victoria's career journey, her experiences in starting her firm, and the challenges she faced. Victoria also shares insights on the importance of financial management in running a law firm and the emotional aspects of selling a business. The conversation provides valuable advice for lawyers considering selling their practices, emphasizing the importance of a warm client database and readiness assessment. Victoria Collier is a seasoned entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience in the legal industry. In addition to building and selling her own 7-figure law firm, she has been coaching lawyers since 2008 on how to add value to their law firms. Victoria holds certifications in exit planning and business valuations. As the founder and CEO of Quid Pro Quo, her mission is to guide others in finding their path to life after law. There is an art and a science to creating turnkey law offices, positioning to transition, and selling for profit. In addition to public speaking, she is also the host of a weekly podcast called “Smart Lawyers Position to Transition” where she brings you engaging content and some real-life stories & advice from her guests each week. Would you like to sign up to be on the waitlist for Breaking Free? You can sign up here: https://upbeat-trailblazer-9238.ck.page/ab08c861d9

In this podcast episode, host Gary discusses the importance of compassion in the legal profession. He explains that while lawyers are often seen as intelligent problem solvers, they sometimes lack empathy. He emphasizes that compassion, which involves understanding and wanting to alleviate another's suffering, is crucial to being a good lawyer. He highlights the benefits of compassionate lawyering, such as improved client relationships, greater fulfillment, and a more successful practice. Come back next week, when we will provide practical steps to practice law more compassionately. Would you like to sign up to be on the waitlist for Breaking Free? You can sign up here: https://upbeat-trailblazer-9238.ck.page/ab08c861d9

In this podcast episode, Leah Miller, an MBA and expert in law firm finance, shares her insights on financial management for small law firms. She discusses the challenges these firms face, particularly in cash flow management, and the importance of strategic financial decisions. Leah emphasizes the need for good bookkeeping and the analysis of financial data to make informed decisions. She also shares her approach to helping clients understand their financial data and set appropriate financial goals. Leah expresses her passion for education and her fulfillment in empowering clients to understand their financials. After almost a decade as the Firm Administrator and CFO of a personal injury law firm, Leah understands the unique challenges law firms face when it comes to managing financials within the firm. In 2023, Leah used this experience to help law firm owners nationwide reach their growth goals. Through LNM Financial Services, Leah provides Fractional CFO Services to law firms with growth goals but need extra help with financial analysis. Leah's email: Leah@lnmfinancial.com Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/leahlnmfinancial Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leah_lnm_financial/ Website: lnmfinancial.com

In this episode of "The Free Lawyer" podcast, Gary discusses the importance of mindfulness for lawyers. The episode explores the concept of mindfulness its benefits in reducing stress, improving focus, decision-making, emotional intelligence, and relationships. Gary also shares personal experiences and struggles with mindfulness. Quoting Jack Kornfield, Gary emphasizes the need to disconnect from the world's busyness and be present in the moment. The episode concludes with eight practical tips for practicing mindfulness in the legal profession, including attentive listening, mindful scheduling, acceptance, taking mindfulness breaks, journaling, and gratitude practice. Would you like to sign up to be on the waitlist for Breaking Free? You can sign up here: https://upbeat-trailblazer-9238.ck.page/ab08c861d9

In this podcast episode, Gary interviews Jackie Harounian, the managing partner of Wisselman Harounian, a family law firm in New York. They discuss Jackie's career progression, changes in family law, and the challenges lawyers face today. Jackie emphasizes the shift towards joint custody and the rise of women as breadwinners. She also highlights the importance of mediation and empathetic listening in the legal process. Jackie shares her leadership approach, focusing on creating a supportive work environment and using communication tools. She also discusses her passion for public speaking, teaching, and marketing her business. Jacqueline Harounian is the Managing Partner and sole shareholder of Wisselman, Harounian Family Law, P.C. The firm was established in 1976 and has been a recognized leader in matrimonial and family law for nearly 50 years. Her educational background includes Columbia College (BA 1991), Hofstra Law School (JD 1994), and SUNY graduate degree in Psychology (2017). Jackie’s unique multidisciplinary and multicultural background, including a graduate degree in Behavioral Forensic Psychology and Family Systems Therapy, enables her to handle complex divorce and custody matters with a holistic and compassionate approach that maximizes outcomes for settlement and co-parenting. She currently serves as co-chair of the Matrimonial Committee of the New York Women’s Bar Association and as a Director of the Brandeis Bar Association and JALBCA (Judges and Lawyers Breast Cancer Alert). Jackie is recognized as “AV Preeminent” 2023 by Martindale Hubbell, the highest possible rating for ethics and professionalism. Jackie was repeatedly chosen to the Super Lawyers' most prestigious list - “Top 50 Women Lawyers” in New York. Her firm’s ten lawyers were recognized in 2023 as “Best Lawyers” by US News and World Report, and her firm was selected as one of the Best Places to Work by Long Island Business News in 2022. Would you like to sign up to be on the waitlist for Breaking Free? You can sign up here: https://upbeat-trailblazer-9238.ck.page/ab08c861d9

In this podcast episode, host and lawyer Gary discusses the importance and challenges of being an authentic lawyer. He defines authenticity as being genuine, truthful, and honest in professional conduct, despite any pressure to act otherwise. Gary acknowledges the legal profession's struggle with authenticity and outlines seven steps to embrace it, including self-reflection, honesty, consistency with values, and establishing boundaries. Despite the challenges, Gary emphasizes that authenticity leads to stronger client relationships, increased trust, and a more fulfilling legal practice. He concludes by urging legal professionals to champion authenticity, leading to personal freedom and a lasting impact.