The Free Lawyer

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

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