The Free Lawyer

In this episode, Gary Miles covers the emotional toll of a courtroom loss and how perfectionism can distort a lawyer’s sense of self-worth. He reveals why even top attorneys fall into the trap of harsh self-talk and a fixed mindset after failure. But instead of spiraling, you can reframe setbacks as powerful catalysts for growth. Listen for a three-stage recovery strategy that transforms professional disappointments into personal development tools. You'll learn how to shift your self-talk, replace perfectionism with progress, and build a resilient legal mindset rooted in the growth mindset. Get the Values Alignment Guide ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://upbeat-trailblazer-9238.kit.com/1604bbf4cb⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Learn more about Breaking Free or order your copy ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.garymiles.net/break-free⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Schedule a complimentary discovery call: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://calendly.com/garymiles-successcoach/one-one-discovery-call⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqcfaTWo17uxmYS9hfAdiaQ

In this episode of "The Free Lawyer," host Gary interviews Ben Chiriboga, a former maritime litigator turned legal tech executive and co-founder of Nexl. Ben shares his journey from traditional law to legal technology, discussing the challenges of overcoming fear and imposter syndrome. Together, they explore the importance of authenticity, redefining success beyond financial gain, and building meaningful client relationships. The conversation highlights how technology, personal growth, and connection can help lawyers find fulfillment and adapt to the evolving legal industry.Ben is a former practicing lawyer turned legal tech executive. He is the founding team member of Nexl, one of the fastest growing companies in APAC (Financial Times). He is also the host of This Legal Life, where he interviews legal professionals on how they built their careers.Ben’s Legal Career and Hero’s Journey (00:02:24) Maritime Law Practice (00:03:06) Stirring for Change and Discovery of Legal Tech (00:05:12) Transition to Legal Tech and Nexl (00:07:16) What is Nexl? (00:09:13) EHow Nexl Works (00:10:39) AI, Automation, and Data Accuracy (00:12:26) First-Party vs. Third-Party Data (00:13:30) CTransition Challenges: Imposter Syndrome (00:15:55) Transferable Skills and Leadership (00:16:28) Leadership Traits and Inner Work (00:20:31) Fear, Authenticity, and Lawyer Challenges (00:22:38) Managing Uncertainty and Mindset (00:23:51) Traits of Fulfilled Lawyers (00:26:14) Redefining Success and the Hero’s Journey (00:29:18) Values-Based Practice and Intentionality (00:31:45) Trends in Legal Careers and Fulfillment (00:32:56) Connection and Combating Isolation (00:36:26) Advice to Younger Self: Risk and Instinct (00:37:15)Would you like to learn more about Breaking Free or order your copy? https://www.garymiles.net/break-free Would you like to schedule a complimentary discovery call? You can do so here: https://calendly.com/garymiles-successcoach/one-one-discovery-call 

For years, I believed perfectionism was the key to being a great lawyer. I triple-checked every brief, obsessed over every detail, and beat myself up over the smallest mistakes. But instead of making me better, it left me anxious, second-guessing myself, and disconnected from my purpose. In this episode of The Free Lawyer, I share what finally helped me break free from perfectionism and embrace a mindset rooted in excellence, not flawlessness. You'll hear courtroom stories, the reframing techniques that shifted my perspective, and how choosing imperfection over performance led to more authentic advocacy. We’ll also explore why self-compassion is essential for success and how authenticity builds deeper client trust.Get the Values Alignment Guide ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://upbeat-trailblazer-9238.kit.com/1604bbf4cb⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Learn more about Breaking Free or order your copy? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.garymiles.net/break-free⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Schedule a complimentary discovery call: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://calendly.com/garymiles-successcoach/one-one-discovery-call⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqcfaTWo17uxmYS9hfAdiaQ

In this episode of "The Free Lawyer," host Gary interviews Katie Mickelson, a prominent family law attorney in Illinois. Katie shares her journey from public relations to becoming an equity partner in her law firm. She emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence in family law, effective communication, and maintaining client relationships post-divorce. Katie discusses her leadership philosophy, which focuses on humility, teamwork, and creating a supportive work environment. She advises lawyers to find joy in their work and explore new opportunities if they feel stagnant. The episode concludes with insights on the future of legal practice and the importance of client-centered resolutions.Known for her thoughtful and straightforward approach to family law, Kathryn Homburger Mickelson has distinguished herself among her peers by identifying her individual client’s goals and then drawing on her extensive courtroom and mediation experience to bring strategic and empowering representation to each case. By looking at family law issues pragmatically, Ms. Mickelson will craft strategies that will result in resolution that is efficient, expeditious and drama-free. Ms. Mickelson understands and appreciates that no client is the same and that long after family law matters are resolved, the individual and their family remain. It is this understanding that has driven Ms. Mickelson to ensure that her clients are treated with respect, their needs are met, and they emerge from family law conflict feeling empowered and whole. Ms. Mickelson represents her clients and their complex financial estates and sensitive family matters with the utmost discretion and confidentiality. From business owners and professional athletes to entertainment executives and influential rain makers, Ms. Mickelson’s clients come to her for her reputation among colleagues and judges as prepared, responsive, and attentive to the smallest of details, and for her no-nonsense approach to the practice of family law. Ms. Mickelson treats every case as an opportunity to educate her clients and promote financial and emotional dignity.Emotional Navigation in Family Law (00:04:05)Career Progression and Loyalty (00:06:55)Mentoring Younger Attorneys (00:08:01)Setting Realistic Client Expectations (00:11:29)Importance of Listening (00:15:53)Post-Divorce Client Relationships (00:16:39)Maintaining Work-Life Balance (00:20:23)Leadership in a Law Firm (00:24:10)Letting Go of Ego (00:24:46)The Role of Management in Law (00:26:40)Finding Joy in Law (00:27:12)Feeling Overwhelmed in Law (00:28:34)Creating Boundaries (00:30:01)Career Redirection (00:32:00)Options for Career Change (00:32:53)Future of Legal Practice (00:36:32)Would you like to learn more about Breaking Free or order your copy? https://www.garymiles.net/break-free Would you like to schedule a complimentary discovery call? You can do so here: https://calendly.com/garymiles-successcoach/one-one-discovery-call

Use this productivity guide to find more time in the day for billable hours. This is your opportunity to overhaul your approach to work and life. Constant busyness and burnout hold lawyers back from both personal fulfillment and professional efficiency. Host, Gary Miles, introduces his proven Triangle System—a simple 3-phase productivity method designed to help attorneys work with greater focus, intention, and purpose. Learn how to eliminate distractions, document time effectively, and plan your day to maximize productivity. Register for the July Masterclass — From Overwhelmed to Outstanding: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/xRkgcV0VRpO7G8zIWaOuRgGet the Values Alignment Guide ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://upbeat-trailblazer-9238.kit.com/1604bbf4cb⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Would you like to learn more about Breaking Free or order your copy? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.garymiles.net/break-free⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Would you like to schedule a complimentary discovery call? You can do so here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://calendly.com/garymiles-successcoach/one-one-discovery-call⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqcfaTWo17uxmYS9hfAdiaQ

In this episode of "The Free Lawyer," host Gary converses with Tony Smith, an experienced attorney specializing in small business advising, intellectual property, and emerging technologies like cryptocurrency and blockchain. Tony shares his professional journey from working at Stryker to founding his own law firm. He discusses his fascination with Bitcoin, the importance of legal foundations for startups, and strategies for managing imposter syndrome and control in the legal profession. The episode offers valuable insights for lawyers on navigating stress, achieving balance, and embracing resilience in their practice.Tony's Professional Journey (00:01:36)Discovery of Bitcoin (00:02:17)Understanding Bitcoin and Blockchain (00:03:16)Bitcoin Network Security (00:05:31)Mining Bitcoin and Energy Use (00:08:13)Transition to His Own Law Firm (00:10:20)Reputation in Cryptocurrency (00:10:48)Current Law Practice (00:14:05)Supporting Startups (00:14:39)Foundational Legal Documents (00:15:51)Managing Imposter Syndrome (00:16:33)Letting Go of Control (00:18:06)Master of My Own Domain (00:20:37)Managing Urgency and Importance (00:21:22)Living in the Present (00:22:26)Resilience Through Medical Challenges (00:23:17)Dealing with Health Scares (00:24:10)Bouncing Back from Setbacks (00:28:56)Finding Work-Life Balance (00:31:05)Tony Smith is a seasoned attorney with deep expertise in intellectual property law, blockchain strategy, and emerging technologies. As General Counsel at Zuber Lawler, Tony provides critical legal guidance at the intersection of innovation, compliance, and corporate growth. With nearly two decades of legal experience—including senior roles at firms like Xsolla and Stryker—he brings a pragmatic, future-forward approach to legal strategy.Tony is especially focused on helping companies leverage blockchain and smart contracts to streamline operations and protect digital assets. His legal acumen and tech fluency make him a go-to resource for businesses navigating the evolving regulatory landscape of cryptocurrency, decentralized technologies, and intellectual property law.Would you like to learn more about Breaking Free or order your copy? https://www.garymiles.net/break-free Would you like to schedule a complimentary discovery call? You can do so here: https://calendly.com/garymiles-successcoach/one-one-discovery-call

Negative thoughts silently sabotage lawyers’ confidence, performance, and long-term career satisfaction. This episode reveals the three most damaging mental habits that plague even the most accomplished attorneys: self-doubt, perfectionism, and comparison. Gary Miles shares personal stories and real-world examples to highlight how inner criticism can be more damaging than any opposing counsel. Learn practical, evidence-based strategies to reframe self-talk, build resilience, and approach high-stakes situations with clarity and confidence. External success doesn't erase internal doubt — taking control of your mindset is essential to thriving in your legal career. Whether you're a new attorney or a seasoned litigator, this episode offers the tools to reclaim your self-worth and transform your professional experience. Get the Values Alignment Guide ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://upbeat-trailblazer-9238.kit.com/1604bbf4cb⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Would you like to learn more about Breaking Free or order your copy? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.garymiles.net/break-free⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Would you like to schedule a complimentary discovery call? You can do so here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://calendly.com/garymiles-successcoach/one-one-discovery-call⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqcfaTWo17uxmYS9hfAdiaQ

In this episode of "The Free Lawyer," host Gary, a seasoned lawyer, converses with Cecilia Poullain, a certified executive coach and former finance lawyer. They delve into the unique challenges women face in the legal profession, highlighting issues such as perfectionism and self-doubt. Cecilia shares her journey from law to coaching, highlighting the importance of self-awareness, confidence-building, and effective communication. She offers practical strategies for women to navigate firm life, develop client relationships, and foster supportive networks. The episode underscores the significance of community and vulnerability in leadership, aiming to empower women to thrive authentically in their legal careers.Cecilia is a certified executive coach and a former finance lawyer, qualified in Australia, the UK, and France. After a successful legal career spanning several countries, she now dedicates her work to supporting women lawyers on their journey to partnership—and beyond.Through her one-on-one coaching, her Pathway to Partnership program, and the Firm Women breakfasts she hosts in Paris, Cecilia helps women build confidence, navigate the complexities of firm life, and grow strong client relationships. She’s passionate about empowering women to lead and to shape a more inclusive and dynamic legal profession.http://www.ceciliapoullain.com/free-guidehttp://www.ceciliapoullain.com/Emotional Side of Law (00:05:25)Overcoming People-Pleasing (00:06:04)Transforming Adversity into Strength (00:06:55)Cecilia's Stage Fright Experience (00:07:16)Building Self-Confidence (00:08:20)Challenges for Women Lawyers (00:11:55)Gender Dynamics in Law (00:12:31)Interruptions in Meetings (00:13:31)Finding Women's Voices (00:15:12)Navigating Professional Expectations (00:17:41)Empowering Women Lawyers (00:19:50)Community Support (00:20:38)Handling Courtroom Challenges (00:21:31)Using Humor in Court (00:22:07)Complexities of Firm Life (00:23:31)Client Development Strategies (00:24:27)Overcoming Perfectionism (00:26:03)Role-Playing and Self-Trust (00:26:27)Understanding the 'Little Gap' (00:28:47)Focusing on Wins (00:30:26)Defining Career Goals (00:31:33)Community Building in Law (00:34:28)Authenticity and Vulnerable Leadership (00:38:22)Future of Women in Law (00:40:55)Would you like to learn more about Breaking Free or order your copy? https://www.garymiles.net/break-free Would you like to schedule a complimentary discovery call? You can do so here: https://calendly.com/garymiles-successcoach/one-one-discovery-call

You've won the cases, billed the hours, and earned the recognition, but somehow, it still feels hollow. In this episode, Gary Miles explores the success paradox so many lawyers face: why external accomplishments and validation don’t lead to lasting satisfaction. If you're stuck in the achievement trap, constantly chasing the next win but never feeling fulfilled, you're not alone. This episode shares how to break free from the pressure to perform and start building a practice that aligns with your values. Redefine success on your terms and become more effective in your career. Get the Values Alignment Guide ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://upbeat-trailblazer-9238.kit.com/1604bbf4cb⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Would you like to learn more about Breaking Free or order your copy? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.garymiles.net/break-free⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Would you like to schedule a complimentary discovery call? You can do so here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://calendly.com/garymiles-successcoach/one-one-discovery-call⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqcfaTWo17uxmYS9hfAdiaQ

In this episode of "The Free Lawyer," the host, Gary Miles, a seasoned litigator with 45 years of experience, converses with Shoshanna French, an intuitive leadership coach and founder of Simple Spirit and Shoshanna French Consulting. Shoshanna, who has worked with NFL leaders, Broadway stars, and CEOs, discusses the integration of intuition into legal practice. The episode highlights the challenges lawyers face in balancing intuition with analytical skills, the importance of mindfulness, and practical strategies for improving intuitive decision-making. Shoshanna emphasizes the importance of aligning with core values and overcoming imposter syndrome to achieve professional and personal fulfillment.Defining Intuition (00:02:52)Challenges Lawyers Face with Intuition (00:03:34)Gut Feelings vs. Intuition (00:04:13)Valuing Intuition Alongside Logic (00:05:10)Practical Uses of Intuition (00:06:26)Recognizing Patterns Among Lawyers (00:09:22)Analysis Paralysis in Lawyers (00:11:48)Three Parts of Intuitive Decision Making (00:12:23)Mindfulness and Quieting the Mind (00:14:36)Finding What Quietens the Mind (00:15:02)Connecting with Intuition (00:17:02)Intuitive Leadership and Work-Life Balance (00:19:33)The Comparison Trap (00:22:13)Acceptance and Control (00:22:15)Intuitive Decision-Making (00:23:24)Building Client Relationships (00:25:23)Managing Imposter Syndrome (00:27:16)Aligning with Purpose (00:29:08)Body as a Pendulum (00:31:51)Basic Intuitive Practice (00:34:43)Would you like to learn more about Breaking Free or order your copy? https://www.garymiles.net/break-free Would you like to schedule a complimentary discovery call? You can do so here: https://calendly.com/garymiles-successcoach/one-one-discovery-call