You Are A Lawyer: Take Risks and Change Careers in Law

Rob Levine is the founder of a multi-state law firm and an advocate for operational efficiency in legal practices. In this episode, he breaks down the vital role of case managers in improving law firm operations, building better client relationships, and increasing profitability. Whether you're a solo attorney or managing a growing team, this conversation will change how you think about delegation and workflow.LAWYER SIDE HUSTLESRob’s “side hustle” is more like a second empire. In addition to his legal practice, he also runs businesses in medical records, call centers, and more. But everything he does is connected by a single goal: improving operational efficiency. His passion is not just practicing law, it’s optimizing it.“I’m always looking at what we do and how we can do it better,” Rob Levine shares in Episode 212 of You Are a Lawyer.For lawyers who feel stuck or overwhelmed, Rob Levine’s story is a reminder that entrepreneurship doesn’t have to look like leaving law. You can innovate inside the legal industry by shifting your mindset and creating systems that support your bigger goals.LISTEN TO LEARNWhy case managers are essential for scaling a law firmHow to increase client satisfaction through structured case managementWays to improve productivity and reduce attorney burnoutWE ALSO DISCUSSRob’s transition from military service to entrepreneurshipThe systems behind running a high-volume personal injury firmThe mindset shift lawyers need to run their firms like businessesJoin the FREE mailing list!Get behind-the-scenes content from You Are A Lawyer. 1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!Interact with You Are A LawyerKyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast. Follow the podcast:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@youarealawyerWebsite: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Debra Whitson is a New York-based attorney, former prosecutor, family law mediator, and author of Divorce Like a Pro. In this conversation, she shares how mediation offers a healthier alternative to courtroom battles—and why divorce doesn’t have to destroy families. With decades of experience, Debra helps clients find clarity, peace, and dignity in even the most difficult transitions.LAWYER SIDE HUSTLESDebra’s side hustle became a calling: she wrote Divorce Like a Pro to provide an accessible, empowering guide for anyone going through separation or family breakdown. The book distills her real-world experience into practical advice and it’s a resource she wishes more people had earlier.“I wrote the book because I found myself saying the same things over and over again to clients… there are better ways.,” shares Debra Whitson in Episode 75 of You Are a Lawyer.When she’s not running her practice or writing, Debra is a global advocate for women’s rights through Zonta International. Her passion for service, travel, and equity informs her entire professional ethos, from her client relationships to her vision of justice.LISTEN TO LEARNWhy courtroom litigation often makes family issues worse, not betterHow mediation can lead to reconciliationThe biggest myths Debra wants to debunk about divorce and conflictWE ALSO DISCUSSDebra’s early career as a prosecutor and what pushed her to shift pathsHer book Divorce Like a Pro and why she felt called to write itHow international travel and service work shaped her career and values

Elise Holtzman left Big Law to raise her children, without a clear roadmap for what came next. Now she’s a leadership coach and founder of The Lawyer’s Edge, helping lawyers build confidence, develop business skills, and grow professionally. In this episode, Elise shares the mindset shifts that led her from practicing law to coaching those still in the field.LAWYER SIDE HUSTLESWhat began as a curiosity became a calling. Elise explored executive coaching and soon realized she could use her background in law to serve other lawyers. That side interest eventually became The Lawyer’s Edge, which she now runs full-time, offering coaching programs, firm-wide trainings, and a popular podcast.“I didn’t set out to start a business. I set out to help people,” Elise Holtzman shares in Episode 210 of You Are a Lawyer.Elise’s story shows how side projects can evolve into full-fledged careers. By paying attention to what energized her, and what drained her, she built a business that supports both her clients and her life. She encourages other lawyers to give themselves permission to try something new, even if it starts small.LISTEN TO LEARNHow to overcome the fear of leaving traditional law practiceWhat lawyers actually need when it comes to leadership and business developmentHow to build a coaching business tailored to legal professionalsWE ALSO DISCUSSThe identity crisis many lawyers face when stepping away from the professionWhy law school doesn’t prepare you to be a leader or entrepreneurHow to balance motherhood and career reinventionJoin the FREE mailing list!Get behind-the-scenes content from You Are A Lawyer. 1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!Interact with You Are A LawyerKyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast. Follow the podcast:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@youarealawyerWebsite: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Lamia Rahman is a Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree, TEDx speaker, and co-founder of SEEKR, a tech startup creating wearable AI devices for the blind. In this inspiring episode, Lamia shares her journey from law school in Hong Kong to the front lines of legal tech, accessibility, and advocacy.LAWYER SIDE HUSTLESSEEKR began as a passion project and has since grown into a globally recognized AI startup. The company develops wearable devices that help blind and visually impaired users navigate the world more independently. Lamia co-founded SEEKR during her law degree, blending her passion for tech with her desire to serve.“It was a small idea at first. Now we’re building something that’s used across countries. That’s wild,” Lamia Rahman shares in Episode 209 of You Are a LawyerMore than a “side hustle,” SEEKR is a mission-driven business, fueled by Lamia’s belief that tech should be inclusive and empathetic. In the episode, she shares what it’s like to build a team, pitch to investors, and develop AI that solves real-world problems, all while still figuring out what comes next in her legal career.LISTEN TO LEARNHow Lamia co-founded an AI startup that creates wearable tools for the blindWhy legal knowledge helps entrepreneurs navigate business growthHow public speaking and networking open unexpected career doorsWE ALSO DISCUSSHer experience studying law in Hong Kong as an international studentHow being a woman of color in tech and law shaped her journeyWays to combine social justice, accessibility, and innovationJoin the FREE mailing list!Get behind-the-scenes content from You Are A Lawyer. 1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!Interact with You Are A LawyerKyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast. Follow the podcast:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@youarealawyerWebsite: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Daniel Rosenberg is a former prosecutor and defense attorney turned novelist who’s turning real-life courtroom experience into gripping legal thrillers. In this episode, he shares how his background in acting and law helped him build a successful writing career, why COVID was the creative catalyst he needed, and how his novels teach readers about the legal system, without getting lost in legalese.LAWYER SIDE HUSTLESDaniel’s side hustle as an author didn’t just stem from a love of books—it came from lived experience. Drawing from real cases he prosecuted and defended, he built compelling plots that read like fiction but are grounded in courtroom realism. He even test-ran his early manuscripts with a jury of trusted friends and lawyers for feedback.“Write what you know… because I can spot right away someone who’s never been in a courtroom,” Daniel Rosenberg shares in Episode 208 of You Are a LawyerHe also manages his own publishing relationships and book marketing, blending legal savvy with entrepreneurial spirit. From book signings to readings to podcast interviews, Daniel shows that you can take a legal career and build something entirely new, without leaving your skills behind.LISTEN TO LEARNHow courtroom experience can shape compelling legal thrillersWhy creative skills are valuable assets in a legal careerHow to write fiction that’s both entertaining and educationalWE ALSO DISCUSSThe role of performance and storytelling in trial workHow Daniel's background in acting helped him excel in law and writingPractical advice for lawyers who want to write books or pursue creative pathsJoin the FREE mailing list!Get behind-the-scenes content from You Are A Lawyer. 1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!Interact with You Are A LawyerKyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast. Follow the podcast:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@youarealawyerWebsite: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Candace Spencer is a legal consultant, mediator, and food justice advocate based in Washington, D.C. With a unique blend of legal insight and a lifelong passion for food, Candace has built a career at the intersection of environmental mediation, sustainable agriculture, and racial equity. In this episode, she shares how she’s using her legal background to support Black farmers, empower dairy-free living, and reshape the food system from the inside out.LAWYER SIDE HUSTLESCandace’s side hustles are anything but side projects; they’re deeply aligned with her mission. Her YouTube series SSpilled Milk educates and uplifts the dairy-free community with humour and heart. She also creates downloadable legal guides for small food entrepreneurs, helping people start businesses with confidence.“It means so much to me when my friends include me with dairy-free options. That’s what Spilled Milk is about—making that kind of support easier for everyone,” shares Candace Spencer in Episode 37 of You Are a Lawyer.Whether she’s consulting on food policy or baking allergen-friendly desserts, Candace is creating systems of care. Her legal and creative ventures work in harmony, bringing clarity, inclusivity, and joy to underserved communities.LISTEN TO LEARNWhy legal skills can support advocacy work outside traditional law firm rolesHow Candace empowers people through food-focused legal consultingWhat it means to find creative freedom and impact in your legal careerWE ALSO DISCUSSThe flaws Candace saw in traditional legal educationWhy dairy-free living is about more than dietary restrictionHow Black farmers and food entrepreneurs can benefit from accessible legal toolsJoin the FREE mailing list!Get behind-the-scenes content from You Are A Lawyer. 1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!Interact with You Are A LawyerKyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast. Follow the podcast:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@youarealawyerWebsite: https://www.youarealawyer.com

A.X. Foster is a former prosecutor and defense attorney turned novelist who’s turning real-life courtroom experience into gripping legal thrillers. In this episode, he shares how his background in acting and law helped him build a successful writing career, why COVID was the creative catalyst he needed, and how his novels teach readers about the legal system, without getting lost in legalese.LAWYER SIDE HUSTLESA.X.’s side hustle as an author didn’t just stem from a love of books—it came from lived experience. Drawing from real cases he prosecuted and defended, he built compelling plots that read like fiction but are grounded in courtroom realism. He even test-ran his early manuscripts with a jury of trusted friends and lawyers for feedback.“Write what you know… because I can spot right away someone who’s never been in a courtroom,” A.X. Foster shares in Episode 206 of You Are a Lawyer.He also manages his own publishing relationships and book marketing, blending legal savvy with entrepreneurial spirit. From book signings to readings to podcast interviews, A.X. shows that you can take a legal career and build something entirely new, without leaving your skills behind.LISTEN TO LEARNHow courtroom experience can shape compelling legal thrillersWhy creative skills are valuable assets in a legal careerHow to write fiction that’s both entertaining and educationalWE ALSO DISCUSSThe role of performance and storytelling in trial workHow A.X.'s background in acting helped him excel in law and writingPractical advice for lawyers who want to write books or pursue creative pathsJoin the FREE mailing list!Get behind-the-scenes content from You Are A Lawyer. 1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!Interact with You Are A LawyerKyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast. Follow the podcast:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@youarealawyerWebsite: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Gary Martoccio is an employment lawyer and solo practitioner who left a large firm after 12 years to build his own plaintiffs-side practice. In this episode, Gary shares what it’s like to advocate for employees, run your own firm, and earn multiple state licenses through bar exams and reciprocity. If you’re curious about employment law or considering going solo, this episode gives a real-world perspective you won’t find in law school.WHAT YOU CAN DO WITH A LAW DEGREEGary’s journey shows how a law degree can provide both structure and flexibility. Even if your first idea doesn’t stick (or your clients don’t make it to the big leagues), your training equips you with skills to succeed in high-stakes environments.“Don’t just limit yourself to traditional practice… it truly sets you up for so many different avenues," shared Gary Martoccio on Episode 205 of You Are a Lawyer.Today, Gary practices employment law across multiple states thanks to a smart mix of bar exams and reciprocity. He reminds lawyers and law students that options expand when you take strategic risks early on and the earlier you pivot toward work that feels aligned, the better.LISTEN TO LEARNHow to start and grow your own law firm after working in Big LawWhat it really looks like to practice plaintiffs-side employment lawHow to use bar reciprocity and strategy to gain licensure in multiple statesWE ALSO DISCUSSThe emotional and professional payoff of advocating for employeesHow to tell if your law firm (or area of law) is a good long-term fitWhy it’s never too late to pivot toward work that energizes youJoin the FREE mailing list!Get behind-the-scenes content from You Are A Lawyer. 1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!Interact with You Are A LawyerKyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast. Follow the podcast:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@youarealawyerWebsite: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Nick Troxel is a lawyer, entrepreneur, and co-founder of Troxel Fitch, LLC, a business-focused law firm in Denver. In this episode, he shares how he went from driving Lyft after law school to building a thriving firm with his law school roommate. If you've ever dreamed of starting your own legal business, or wondered if it's worth the ris, this conversation is for you.LAWYER SIDE HUSTLESNick didn’t have a side hustle in the traditional sense—his firm was the hustle. He and his partner built it in real time, taking every contract and client they could, learning by doing, and stretching every dollar. The early months were full of late nights, part-time jobs, and small wins that added up to something bigger. Over time, that side hustle became a full-fledged, thriving firm.“I didn’t do this to be super rich or anything. I mean, I want freedom. And that’s ultimately what entrepreneurship can give you,” shares Nick Troxel in Episode 76 of You Are a Lawyer.In addition to running his practice, Nick also co-authored How to Be a Lawyer, a book that aims to demystify the transition from law school to practice. His passion for helping new lawyers build sustainable careers has become a core part of his identity. He proves that a non-traditional career doesn’t mean a lesser one. It often means a more fulfilling one, especially when it’s built with intention and courage.LISTEN TO LEARNWhat it really takes to start a law firm straight out of law schoolWhy lifestyle goals should guide your legal career decisionsHow to build resilience through uncertainty (and global pandemics)WE ALSO DISCUSSEntrepreneurship as a mindset, not just a jobHow to avoid “golden handcuffs” in your careerWhy law students should focus on the life they want—not just the job they think they should takeJoin the FREE mailing list!Get behind-the-scenes content from You Are A Lawyer. 1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!Interact with You Are A LawyerKyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast. Follow the podcast:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@youarealawyerWebsite: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Rhonda Coleman Wandel is a commercial attorney, podcast host, and founder of RCW Strategies LLC, a legal consulting firm serving visionary companies and legal teams. In this episode, she shares her bold transition from education to law, her path through in-house legal roles, and why she recently stepped into entrepreneurship after years at companies like Accenture and Google. From Memphis to Chicago, single motherhood to legal leadership, Rhonda’s story is about clarity, courage, and walking your own path.LAWYER SIDE HUSTLESRhonda is the host of the Rhonda Coleman Wandel Podcast, a platform she created to amplify women's career stories and celebrate nontraditional professional journeys. The podcast was born from her own pivot into law and a desire to show women that they can chart their own course—regardless of what the status quo says.“I wanted to create a space for women to come and talk about their unique career paths... and validate for other women like, look, you can walk your own path,” Rhonda Coleman Wandel shares in Episode 203 of You Are a Lawyer.Through her show, Rhonda has interviewed remarkable women who’ve reinvented themselves, pivoted industries, and built lives of purpose and alignment. The podcast, like her legal career, is about service, voice, and visibility. It’s also an extension of her belief that success doesn’t look one way—and that storytelling can help us find freedom in our professional lives.LISTEN TO LEARNHow to break into in-house legal roles, even without Big Law experienceWhy meditation and movement matter in high-achieving legal careersWhat “commercial transactional law” really means in the tech industryWE ALSO DISCUSSHow to stay ambitious without burning outWhy clarity around your values is key to career decisionsWhat lawyers can learn from entrepreneurship and educationJoin the FREE mailing list!Get behind-the-scenes content from You Are A Lawyer. 1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!Interact with You Are A LawyerKyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast. Follow the podcast:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@youarealawyerWebsite: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Keith Shannon is a former lawyer, legal educator, and lifelong theater fan. Kara Shannon is his daughter and creative collaborator. In this episode, Kyla speaks with the father-daughter duo about their journey from legal careers and musical soundtracks to launching Fourth Row Center, a podcast celebrating Broadway and family bonds. Their story is a heartfelt reminder that success can look like connection, creativity, and choosing joy on your own terms.LAWYER SIDE HUSTLESLaunching a podcast wasn’t just a fun hobby for Keith and Kara, it was a way to stay connected, be creative, and invite others into their world of Broadway fandom. What started as casual chats about shows turned into Fourth Row Center, a podcast that’s part review, part family banter, and part love letter to the stage.“We started the podcast and love it together, so why not? And it gives us an excuse to chat a little bit,” Kara Shannon shares in Episode 202 of You Are a Lawyer.This father-daughter side hustle is a reminder that legal professionals can (and should) pursue joy. Whether you're behind a mic or in the audience, there's power in showing up fully—as a parent, partner, or creative collaborator.LISTEN TO LEARNHow a law degree can support creative and nontraditional careersWhy launching a passion project with a loved one is so powerfulHow to prioritize values like family, storytelling, and joyWE ALSO DISCUSSThe practical power of paralegals in the legal fieldHow Kara and Keith’s shared love of musicals became a podcastWhy flexibility and curiosity are career superpowersJoin the FREE mailing list!Get behind-the-scenes content from You Are A Lawyer. 1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!Interact with You Are A LawyerKyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast. Follow the podcast:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@youarealawyerWebsite: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Aman Costigan was once a partner at a Canadian law firm, teaching yoga on the side and quietly craving more freedom and alignment in her life. In this powerful conversation, she shares how she found her voice, launched Beyond Yoga for Lawyers, and began to merge wellness with law in a meaningful way. The episode captures a moment in time when Aman was redefining what a legal career could look like — and today, her journey continues beyond the courtroomLawyer Side HustlesBeyond Yoga for Lawyers began as a side project. Aman felt a pull to share what she had learned through yoga and mindfulness, especially with other lawyers who were struggling with burnout and disconnection. She started teaching classes, offering workshops, and building a community.“I didn’t see anyone else doing it in the way I wanted to. So I just did it,” expresses Aman Costigan in Episode 105 of You Are a Lawyer.Over time, that side hustle grew into a brand and a business. Today, she offers coaching, yoga, and wellness content specifically designed for lawyers who want more than just billable hours and burnout. It’s a testament to what’s possible when you start small, stay consistent, and let your vision evolve.LISTEN TO LEARNHow to break out of burnout and build a new rhythmWhy you don’t have to choose between ambition and peaceHow yoga and mindfulness can transform legal careersWE ALSO DISCUSSThe early signs of needing a career shiftThe journey of building a business as a lawyerHow to expand your identity beyond your titleJoin the FREE mailing list!Get behind-the-scenes content from You Are A Lawyer. 1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!Interact with You Are A LawyerKyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast. Follow the podcast:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@youarealawyerWebsite: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Austin Brittenham is a first-generation lawyer, legal tech founder, and the creator of 2nd Chair, an AI-powered tool designed to help solo and small firm lawyers work faster and smarter. In this episode, Austin and Kyla talk about space law, law school culture, and what it really means to use your legal education creatively. From debating in high school to launching two startups, Austin proves that you don’t have to follow the traditional legal path to make a meaningful impact.Lawyer Side HustlesAustin’s side hustle is now his full-time gig. He founded 2nd Chair while still in law school and used his background in AI and education startups to build something lawyers actually need. The tool creates litigation timelines, drafts legal materials, and helps lawyers save time and serve more clients. But it’s not just about software, it’s about increasing access to justice and making legal practice more sustainable.“We can distribute more justice, we can serve more people—or just have more vacation,” expresses Austin Brittenham in Episode 200 of You Are a Lawyer.Austin’s story reminds us that entrepreneurship doesn’t have to mean abandoning the law. It can mean expanding it, reimagining it, and making it more human. 2nd Chair exists because Austin saw a gap in the system and took the risk to build something better.LISTEN TO LEARNHow Austin built 2nd Chair to support small firm lawyersThe difference between legal knowledge and legal valueHow to take career risks using your law degree as a safety netWE ALSO DISCUSSThe pros and cons of legal tech adoption across generationsAustin’s detour into space law and education startupsWhy volunteering and community work can shape your legal futureJoin the FREE mailing list!Get behind-the-scenes content from You Are A Lawyer. 1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!Interact with You Are A LawyerKyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast. Follow the podcast:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@youarealawyerWebsite: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Dr. Rhonda Glover Reese is a certified career and leadership coach with 34 years of FBI experience under her belt. From counterintelligence to white collar crime, her federal career was vast and dynamic. In this powerful episode, Dr. Rhonda shares how her dream of working for the FBI led to a fulfilling career in public service and how her new chapter as a coach helps others step into their purpose with confidence.Side HustlesDr. Rhonda’s “side hustle” is far from traditional. After retiring from the FBI, she launched a coaching business to help others find fulfillment in their careers. Her passion lies in career and leadership development, especially for those in law enforcement. She also offers training, speaks at events, and creates space for honest conversations about burnout, purpose, and growth.“I'm great at mentoring and coaching, particularly in that law enforcement space. I'm good. I'm great,” expresses Dr. Rhonda Glover Reese in Episode 199 of You Are a Lawyer.Her journey from federal agent to entrepreneur was not accidental. It was built on prayer, reflection, and a growing awareness that people were turning to her for guidance. Today, she is intentional about the size and structure of her business to maintain the life she wants; one that includes faith, flexibility, and continued serviceLISTEN TO LEARNWhat a long-term FBI career looks like behind the scenesHow coaching and law enforcement can work hand in handWhy fear keeps us stuck and how to move through itWE ALSO DISCUSSThe truth about leadership and being in the arenaBuilding trust and vulnerability in coaching relationshipsThe power of lived experience and mentorship in helping others growJoin the FREE mailing list!Get behind-the-scenes content from You Are A Lawyer. 1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!Interact with You Are A LawyerKyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast. Follow the podcast:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@youarealawyerWebsite: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Bill Mitchell is a veteran litigator, negotiation strategist, and the author of The Disruptive Lawyer’s Little Black Book of Litigation Management. With three decades of experience, Bill has a bold message for lawyers: less litigation, more resolution. In this episode, he shares how he became a top 1% dealmaker by helping clients resolve cases faster and cheaper, without sacrificing strategy or results.Lawyer Side HustlesBill’s side hustle? Changing how lawyers think. He authored The Disruptive Lawyer’s Little Black Book of Litigation Management and teaches a course called “Masters in Negotiation” for attorneys, claims professionals, and in-house counsel. His mission is to equip lawyers with the tools they didn’t learn in law school, including how to close cases with confidence and clarity.“I do an eight-part series on negotiation. If 92% of all cases settle, you need really good negotiators,” expresses Bill Mitchell in Episode 94 of You Are a Lawyer.His upcoming book, The Disruptive Lawyer’s Little Black Book of Negotiation, builds on that mission. Whether training junior associates or consulting with Fortune 500 legal departments, Bill is helping shift the mindset from litigation to resolution.LISTEN TO LEARNWhy 99% of lawsuits should never reach a courtroomHow lawyers can provide more value by closing, not extending, casesWhy client goals should define legal success, not just billable hourWE ALSO DISCUSSHow Bill built a national practice with a resolution-first mindsetThe problem with traditional billing incentives in litigationHow to train new lawyers to think like dealmakersJoin the FREE mailing list!Get behind-the-scenes content from You Are A Lawyer. 1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!Interact with You Are A LawyerKyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast. Follow the podcast:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@youarealawyerWebsite: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Margeaux Thomas is a litigator and founder of The Thomas Law Office, P.C., a firm that focuses on "business divorces" – complex breakups between business partners. In this episode, Margeaux shares her journey from Ohio to the DMV, what drew her to commercial litigation, and how she built a thriving law firm dedicated to helping small businesses through conflict. She also talks about growing up around quiet entrepreneurship and why personality type plays a big role in choosing your legal niche.Lawyer Side HustlesWhile Margeaux’s legal practice is her main business, she also maintains a vibrant presence on LinkedIn and integrates her personal interests, especially swimming, into her professional brand. By sharing her swim journey, personal milestones, and non-legal reflections, she’s built an engaged audience that connects with her on multiple levels. This has become a powerful tool for business development.“I also post a lot about things that aren’t legal… People follow that and I go places and people talk about it, which is kind of cool,” expresses Margeaux Thomas in Episode 197 of You Are a Lawyer.Her “side hustle” isn’t a separate business, but rather a lifestyle of authentic marketing and personal storytelling that enhances her professional success. Her experience demonstrates how being relatable and real online can complement a highly focused and serious legal career.LISTEN TO LEARNHow to carve out a niche in commercial litigationWhat it takes to build and scale your own law firmWhy business divorces require both legal strategy and emotional intelligenceWE ALSO DISCUSSThe emotional complexity of business disputesThe intersection of personality and legal practice areasHow social media can support organic law firm growthJoin the FREE mailing list!Get behind-the-scenes content from You Are A Lawyer. 1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!Interact with You Are A LawyerKyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast. Follow the podcast:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@youarealawyerWebsite: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Lem Garcia is a personal injury attorney and the founder of Lem Garcia Law in California. In this episode, Lem shares how he went from answering Craigslist job ads to running a 20-person law firm. With humility, insight, and honesty, Lem walks us through what it takes to start a firm from nothing and why self-belief and strategic thinking are key to long-term success.Lawyer Side HustlesUnlike some guests with side hustles unrelated to law, Lem’s passion project is his firm itself. He sees law firm ownership as both a business and a creative pursuit. From writing SOPs to mentoring team members, Lem puts intention into every piece of the business.“If you explain the why behind what you're doing... they can apply that later on and be more confident in what they do,” expresses Lem Garcia in Episode 196 of You Are a Lawyer.Through firm leadership, Lem uses his law degree to create opportunity for others. He mentors staff, builds scalable systems, and remains deeply involved in both the legal and operational sides of his firm. His side hustle isn’t separate from his practice; it is the practice.LISTEN TO LEARNHow to build a personal injury firm with no prior clientsThe value of mentorship and team-building in law firm growthWhy self-belief matters more than "golden handcuffs"WE ALSO DISCUSSThe emotional reality of launching a firm with a newborn at homeHow law school theory differs from real-world legal practiceWhat makes mentorship a vital part of successful leadershipJoin the FREE mailing list!Get behind-the-scenes content from You Are A Lawyer. 1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!Interact with You Are A LawyerKyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast. Follow the podcast:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@youarealawyerWebsite: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Sarah Cottrell, founder of the Former Lawyer Podcast, discusses the challenges and identity struggles that lawyers often face, the misconceptions surrounding the legal profession, and the importance of exploring alternative career paths. Sarah shares her journey from practicing law to becoming an entrepreneur and offers valuable insights for lawyers seeking fulfillment outside traditional legal practice. Tune in to gain insights into the nuances of being a lawyer and the importance of setting boundaries.Lawyer Side HustlesSarah is the founder of the Former Lawyer Podcast, a platform dedicated to helping lawyers who are unhappy in their careers explore alternative paths and find fulfillment outside of the legal profession. Through her podcast, Sarah interviews former lawyers who have successfully transitioned into different careers, providing listeners with real-life examples and inspiration. She also offers coaching programs, such as the Former Lawyer Collaborative, where lawyers can join a community, access a curriculum, and receive guidance on navigating career transitions."I create things that I wish I had when I was in a place that was not good," explains Sarah Cottrell in Episode 117 of You Are a Lawyer.Sarah's mission is to break the stigma around leaving the legal profession and to empower lawyers to pursue work that aligns with their values and passions. She has practiced law for ten years and understands the challenges and pressures that lawyers face. Sarah's approach is rooted in empathy and understanding, as she helps lawyers navigate the process of self-discovery and find clarity in their career paths. Through her podcast and coaching programs, Sarah provides a supportive and informative space for lawyers to explore their options and make meaningful career changes.LISTEN TO LEARNSome of the myths of big lawWhy therapy is essential for self-discoveryHow to transition from lawyer to entrepreneurWE ALSO DISCUSSThe narrow ideas of achievement and career pathsAlternative career choices for lawyersHow law school can sometimes limit self-expressionJoin the FREE mailing list!Get behind-the-scenes content from You Are A Lawyer. 1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!Interact with You Are A LawyerKyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast. Follow the podcast:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@youarealawyerWebsite: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Vernon Thomas is a military attorney, community servant, and judicial candidate for the 19th Judicial District Court in Baton Rouge. In this heartfelt conversation, Vernon and Kyla reflect on his legal journey—from public defender and prosecutor to staff attorney and JAG officer—and how each role shaped his approach to justice. With lessons from his father, mentorship from respected judges, and deep Southern roots, Vernon is driven by more than ambition—he’s driven by service.LAWYER SIDE HUSTLESVernon’s not one to chase flashy side hustles—his hustle is service. In addition to his military service and legal practice, he helps run the Cutting Edge Music Business Conference, a long-running event originally founded by his father and godfather. The conference helps attorneys gain education in television, film, and music law, especially as digital media transforms the industry. Vernon contributes by advising on ethical issues and supporting work-for-hire contracts for local creatives.“It was originally designed to kind of be similar to South by Southwest, where lawyers can come and get education in the television, film, and music industry,” expresses Vernon Thomas in Episode 194 of You Are a Lawyer.Through this work, Vernon supports artists and advocates for fair contracts and informed decision-making. It’s a creative outlet that intersects naturally with his legal career—and a meaningful way to stay rooted in his family legacy while helping others grow.LISTEN TO LEARNWhat it looks like to build a legal career rooted in public serviceHow Vernon balances military service, family life, and legal workWhat it really takes to run for judge—and why it mattersWE ALSO DISCUSSThe weight and responsibility of being on the benchHow clerks, court staff, and mentors shape the judicial processThe importance of intentionality and legacy in legal careersJoin the FREE mailing list!Get behind-the-scenes content from You Are A Lawyer. 1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!Interact with You Are A LawyerKyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast. Follow the podcast:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@youarealawyerWebsite: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Steven Cunningham is a lawyer-turned-entrepreneur and the founder of Simple Academy, a company that helps teams boost performance and productivity using AI tools. In this episode, Steven talks about what it means to pivot early, lean into innovation, and reimagine what legal training can prepare you to do. Whether you're AI-curious or career-curious, Steven Cunningham’s story offers both inspiration and practical insights.LAWYER SIDE HUSTLESSteven’s “side hustle” evolved into a full-time business: Simple Academy. It began when he was running a book-summary service and saw the writing on the wall—AI could (and would) make his existing business obsolete. Rather than panic, Steven leaned in. He became an early adopter of AI tools, studying how they worked and where they could add value. Soon, he was helping other business owners understand how to use AI to improve performance.“It became an interest. I love what we’re doing. It fulfills every self-actualization need that I have… but it wasn’t why we started it,” expresses Steven Cunningham in Episode 193 of You Are a Lawyer.Simple Academy now helps teams reimagine their workflows using AI. From executive coaching to custom prompt design, Steven and his team teach organizations how to think differently about time, value, and output. His legal background—especially his ability to communicate clearly and break down complex tools—makes him an ideal teacher in this fast-changing space. For Steven, the hustle isn’t just a business. It’s a creative outlet, a problem-solving lab, and a way to show that legal skills can drive innovation, not just interpretation.LISTEN TO LEARNHow lawyers can use their research and analysis skills to lead in tech and AIWhat it means to leave law early and still use your training meaningfullyWhy understanding behavior change is key to AI adoptionWE ALSO DISCUSSThe mindset shift lawyers need to make when transitioning to techHow to talk to resistant clients and help them trust AI toolsWhat AI will—and won’t—replace in the next decadeJoin the FREE mailing list!Get behind-the-scenes content from You Are A Lawyer. 1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!Interact with You Are A LawyerKyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast. Follow the podcast:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@youarealawyerWebsite: https://www.youarealawyer.com