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

Kyla Denanyoh, host of the You Are a Lawyer podcast and owner of a podcast management company, shares her insights on the joys of being a part-time podcaster. Kyla wants you to skip the boring stuff involved in podcasting and create! From declining guests to managing burnout, Kyla discusses the importance of embracing amateur podcasting and finding balance in creating content while enjoying other life aspects.

Skip the Boring Stuff

KD Creative was founded by Kyla Denanyoh to help business owners streamline their content creation process. Through her business, Kyla offers services such as recording, editing, and uploading content for podcasts and YouTube videos. By hiring a virtual assistant and working with editors, Kyla has expanded her business and provided valuable support to her clients.

"I managed my way out of burnout by hiring an assistant. "Hey, can you take over email? Can you take over guest communications? And can you take over scheduling social media?" Cool," shares Kyla Denanyoh about how hiring assistance helped her complete more work in less time.

This episode explains Kyla's passion for storytelling and desire to empower others to share their stories. By launching multiple podcasts for authors, lawyers, and medical professionals, Kyla has expanded her creative endeavors and helped individuals in different industries connect with their audience through engaging content. The business's focus on skipping mundane tasks and allowing clients to focus on their core message resonates with Kyla's mission to create more storytellers. Through the business KD Creative, Kyla has successfully combined her entrepreneurial spirit with her love for storytelling, significantly impacting the content creation landscape.

LISTEN TO LEARN

• How to embrace being a part-time podcaster and enjoy the flexibility it offers
• Why you should decline guests if they don't align with your show's focus or if you're not interested
• How to manage your way out of burnout by delegating tasks and responsibilities
• Why you should strive to be a part-time creator

WE ALSO DISCUSS

• The importance of managing burnout and finding ways to replenish your passion and energy
• The benefits of part-time podcasting and how it can enhance your enjoyment of the creative process
• The luxury of not having to monetize everything and allowing podcasting to be a fulfilling passion project
• How to monetize a podcast as a part-time podcaster

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Interact with You Are A Lawyer

Kyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast. Follow the podcast:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@youarealawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

This episode was produced by KD Creative, a podcast strategy firm. Visit skiptheboringstuff.com to launch a podcast and get in the ears of your ideal customers.

Holly Cope shares her journey from practicing law to helping lawyers create engaging podcasts. She discusses the importance of building a personal brand as a lawyer, documenting one's journey through law school, and overcoming limiting beliefs to excel in the legal profession. Holly's insights on leveraging a law degree for various opportunities and the value of storytelling in the legal field provide valuable advice for law students and young lawyers.

Lawyer Side Hustles

Side hustles can be a great way for lawyers to explore alternative career paths and find more flexibility in their work. Holly Cope, a lawyer turned podcast producer, shared her journey of starting a freelance writing business on the side before transitioning into podcasting full-time. She emphasized the importance of balancing traditional legal work and pursuing entrepreneurial ventures.

"I was doing that on the side and then I built that up, that freelance business up until I was in a position where I could quit my job," shares Holly Cope in Episode 145 of You Are a Lawyer.

Lawyers can benefit from side hustles financially and in terms of personal growth and fulfillment. By documenting their journey and sharing their experiences, lawyers can build a personal brand and attract new opportunities. Holly suggested that lawyers consider sharing their stories and insights, especially on platforms like LinkedIn, to connect with a wider audience and showcase their expertise.

LISTEN TO LEARN

• How to leverage a law degree for various career opportunities beyond traditional legal practice
• The importance of building a personal brand as a lawyer and documenting your journey on social media
• Strategies for overcoming limiting beliefs and imposter syndrome when starting a podcast or pursuing new ventures

WE ALSO DISCUSS

• Transitioning from practicing law to freelancing and eventually helping lawyers create engaging podcasts
• The role of coaching and counseling in supporting lawyers to become successful podcasters
• The significance of confidence-building through sharing personal experiences and tips on social media platforms like LinkedIn

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Get behind-the-scenes content from You Are A Lawyer.

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Interact with You Are A Lawyer

Kyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast. Follow the podcast:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@youarealawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

This episode was produced by KD Creative, a podcast strategy firm. Visit skiptheboringstuff.com to launch a podcast and get in the ears of your ideal customers.

Elena Deutsch, a career coach on a mission to help women and non-binary lawyers find fulfillment outside of big law, shares inspiring stories of individuals who have transformed their legal careers through her program, Will. From setting boundaries to exploring new career paths, Elena's insights and guidance empower individuals to prioritize their well-being and create a career and life they love. Tune in to hear how Elena's program is helping lawyers navigate their professional journeys with confidence and purpose.

Transform Your Legal Career

Elena Deutsch founded W.I.L.L. (Women Interested In Leaving the Law), a program designed to help women and non-binary lawyers who feel stuck and unhappy in their current legal careers. Through Will, Elena assists individuals in discovering what truly lights them up and helps them create a fulfilling and meaningful career path outside of traditional big law firms. The program focuses on self-discovery, goal clarification, and taking action to align one's career with their passions and values. Elena emphasizes the importance of putting oneself first and setting boundaries to prioritize mental health and personal well-being in the legal profession.

"You don't have to try and be a round peg in a square hole," shares Elena Deutsch in Episode 144 of You Are a Lawyer.

At Will, individuals are encouraged to explore alternative career paths within the legal field or outside of it, based on their interests and strengths. Will provides a supportive environment for individuals to transform their careers, whether transitioning to a different type of law practice, starting their own firm, or pursuing entirely new ventures that align with their values and aspirations. Elena's program empowers individuals to take control of their careers and create a life that brings them fulfillment and joy.

LISTEN TO LEARN

• The importance of setting boundaries and putting yourself first in your career and life
• How to navigate a career transition within the legal field or outside of it
• Strategies for advocating for yourself and making choices that align with your values and goals

WE ALSO DISCUSS

• The experiences of individuals who have successfully transitioned within or out of the legal field
• Book recommendations for personal and professional development, including We Should All Be Millionaires by Rachel Rogers and The Most Powerful Woman in the Room by an author specializing in negotiation techniques
• The significance of seeking inspiration from others, sharing stories, and building a career that aligns with personal fulfillment and well-being

Join the FREE mailing list!

Get behind-the-scenes content from You Are A Lawyer.

1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com

2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR

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4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!

Interact with You Are A Lawyer

Kyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast. Follow the podcast:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@youarealawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

This episode was produced by KD Creative, a podcast strategy firm. Visit skiptheboringstuff.com to launch a podcast and get in the ears of your ideal customers.

Brian Dixon, a lawyer turned digital nomad, shares his journey of transitioning from practicing law to running his own business as a copywriter while living in Bali. In this episode, Brian discusses his decision-making process, the support he received from his family, and the importance of embracing change and taking risks in one's career. Listeners will be inspired by Brian's story of pursuing multiple passions and redefining the traditional boundaries of a legal career.

Lawyer Side Hustles

Lawyers like Brian Dixon, who embrace the digital nomad lifestyle, exemplify the potential for side hustles in the legal profession. By leveraging their legal expertise and skills, lawyers can explore opportunities beyond traditional law practice, such as freelance writing, consulting for startups, or offering legal services remotely while traveling the world. Brian's journey as a digital nomad showcases the flexibility and adaptability that lawyers can harness to pursue diverse side businesses while maintaining their legal careers.

"I think lawyers can do anything and everything they want with their law degree," shares Brian Dixon in Episode 143 of You Are a Lawyer.

Embracing a side hustle as a lawyer not only allows for personal growth and exploration but also opens up avenues for expanding one's professional horizons. By venturing into side businesses, lawyers like Brian can tap into their creativity, passion, and entrepreneurial spirit, leading to a more fulfilling and diversified career path. As Brian's experience demonstrates, having a side business as a lawyer can be a rewarding endeavor that complements and enhances one's legal practice. As he advises, "Lawyers can write their own rules," encouraging fellow legal professionals to explore the endless possibilities that come with leveraging their legal skills in unconventional ways.

LISTEN TO LEARN

• Insights into the decision-making process of leaving a traditional legal career to pursue writing and freelancing
• Understanding the role of a business lawyer for startups and the value they bring to the table
• Encouragement for law students and young lawyers to explore diverse opportunities with their law degree

WE ALSO DISCUSS

• The benefits and challenges of being a digital nomad and running a professional business from a non-traditional setting
• The importance of taking risks and embracing change, even in the legal profession
• The significance of research, preparation, and seeking help in navigating career transitions

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Get behind-the-scenes content from You Are A Lawyer.

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Interact with You Are A Lawyer

Kyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast.

Follow the podcast:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@youarealawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Misty Leon, an experienced in-house employee benefits attorney at Texas Instruments, shares her journey of how she stumbled into the world of employee benefits law and found her passion for navigating complex federal laws to ensure compliance with benefit plans. In this episode, Misty discusses the intricacies of her role, the importance of staying updated on new laws and regulations, and offers valuable advice for law students and new lawyers on being open to new opportunities and building a strong professional network. Join us as Misty provides insights into the practical and rewarding aspects of employee benefits law.

Lawyer Side Hustles

Side hustles for lawyers can be a great way to explore different interests and diversify income streams. Misty Leon's journey from private practice to in-house employee benefits attorney at Texas Instruments showcases the importance of being open to new opportunities and pivoting when necessary. As Misty mentioned, having a side business or pursuing other interests outside of traditional legal practice can provide valuable experiences and connections that may lead to unexpected opportunities in the future. Misty's advice to always be open to new opportunities and to broaden one's practice by exploring adjacent areas of law resonates with the idea of pursuing side hustles as a way to expand one's skill set and network.

"Just be looking for opportunities to broaden your practice, to learn new things, to work with new people," shares Misty Leon in Episode 142 of You Are a Lawyer.

By engaging in side hustles, lawyers can gain new skills, expand their network, and potentially discover new passions that can complement their legal practice. Misty's journey serves as a reminder that exploring different avenues, such as side businesses, can lead to unexpected and fulfilling opportunities in the legal field and beyond.

LISTEN TO LEARN

• About Misty's journey into employee benefits law and finding her passion for it
• Insights into the day-to-day work of an employee benefits attorney, including monitoring new laws, collaborating with HR teams, and managing outside counsel
• The importance of being open to new opportunities and networking to broaden career prospects

WE ALSO DISCUSS

• Misty's transition from private practice to in-house employee benefits law at Texas Instruments
• The unique challenges and rewards of working as a team of one in the employee benefits field
• Advice for law students and new lawyers on pivoting, broadening practice areas, and building a strong professional network

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Get behind-the-scenes content from You Are A Lawyer.

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4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!

Interact with You Are A Lawyer

Kyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast.

Follow the podcast:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@youarealawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Tiffany Obeng, a lawyer specializing in employment discrimination, shares her journey of transitioning from practicing law to becoming a successful children's book author. Through her books, Tiffany aims to inspire young readers, especially Black children, to explore diverse career paths and embrace the power of literacy. Join us as Tiffany discusses the importance of representation in literature and the impact of alternative legal careers in shaping a more inclusive future.

Lawyer Side Hustles

Side hustles for lawyers can be a powerful way to explore passions outside of the legal field, as demonstrated by Tiffany Obeng's journey as an author. Tiffany's experience highlights the importance of pursuing multiple interests and not limiting oneself to a single career path. This mindset can empower lawyers to leverage their skills and creativity in different ways, such as writing books, starting a business, or engaging in other entrepreneurial ventures alongside their legal practice.

"You can pursue two things. You don't have to just be one thing," shares Tiffany Obeng in Episode 141 of You Are a Lawyer.

Tiffany's success as an author while maintaining her legal career showcases the potential for lawyers to excel in side businesses. Her story emphasizes the value of embracing diverse opportunities and not being afraid to step into new ventures. As she aptly put it, "Do it scared." This mindset encourages lawyers to push past their fears and uncertainties, allowing them to explore new avenues and create additional sources of fulfillment and success beyond the traditional legal realm. By embracing side hustles, lawyers can unlock their full potential and make a meaningful impact in various fields while continuing to excel in their legal profession.

LISTEN TO LEARN

• The importance of pursuing multiple passions and careers, even with a law degree.
• Overcoming imposter syndrome and fear of success to pursue new challenges.
• The power of reading and the impact it can have on individuals and society.

WE ALSO DISCUSS

• Tiffany's journey from practicing law to becoming a children's book author.
• The significance of representation in children's literature and the workplace.
• The variety of alternative legal careers available to law students and young lawyers.

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Get behind-the-scenes content from You Are A Lawyer.

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Interact with You Are A Lawyer

Kyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast.

Follow the podcast:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@youarealawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Joshua Brumley, a successful lawyer and entrepreneur, shares the story of starting his own law firm right out of law school and the importance of networking and marketing in the legal industry. He emphasizes the value of building a strong network of like-minded attorneys and continuously learning and growing in the field of law. Joshua's passion for helping people and his innovative approach to marketing and business development shine through in this insightful episode.

Lawyer Side Hustles

Side hustles can be a valuable addition to a lawyer's career, providing additional income and personal fulfillment. Joshua Brumley shared his experience of owning a Little Caesars franchise as a side hustle, highlighting the educational aspect of diversifying one's business ventures. He emphasized the importance of balancing a side business with a law career, acknowledging the challenges and rewards that come with such endeavors.

"I think that the first most important advice I have for all law students or young lawyers is build a network," shares Joshua Brumley in Episode 140 of You Are a Lawyer.

Having a side business can also enhance a lawyer's marketing skills and network, as it provides opportunities to engage with different industries and individuals. By leveraging the experience gained from running a side hustle, lawyers can improve their business acumen and expand their professional connections. Joshua's advice to law students and young lawyers to build a network aligns with the idea of utilizing side hustles to create new relationships and opportunities. By actively engaging in diverse business ventures, lawyers can not only supplement their income but also enhance their overall skill set and reputation in the legal community.

LISTEN TO LEARN

• The value of being passionate about your work and pursuing a career that brings fulfillment.
• The benefits of sharing knowledge and resources with others in the legal profession.
• The significance of reputation and how it can impact your career and relationships within the legal community

WE ALSO DISCUSS

• The advantages of specializing in a specific area of law, such as personal injury.
• The role of technology and AI in the legal industry.
• The benefits of volunteering time and expertise to help others in need.

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Get behind-the-scenes content from You Are A Lawyer.

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Interact with You Are A Lawyer

Kyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast.

Follow the podcast:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@youarealawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Terrance Pryor shares his inspiring journey from a career in IT at General Motors to transitioning into the legal field, all while pursuing his law degree part-time. Through his determination and strategic planning, Terrance navigated through various roles in data privacy and DevOps, showcasing his ability to adapt and excel in different areas of expertise. Join us as Terrance reflects on his experiences and the pivotal moments that shaped his career path.

Lawyer Side Hustles

Side hustles for lawyers can be a great way to diversify income and explore different interests outside of the legal field. Terrance Pryor's journey from IT to law school and eventually landing a role as in-house counsel at General Motors showcases the potential for lawyers to pursue side businesses in various industries.

"I was always advocating for people. I was always taking up for people who didn't really know how to take up for themselves," shares Terrance Pryor in Episode 138 of You Are a Lawyer.

Lawyers, like Terrance, demonstrate the importance of having a multifaceted career and exploring different opportunities beyond traditional legal roles. Side businesses can provide lawyers with additional skills, experiences, and financial stability. As Terrance's journey shows, combining legal expertise with other interests can lead to unique career paths and opportunities.

LISTEN TO LEARN

• The importance of being open to new opportunities and being proactive in pursuing them.
• The significance of setting intentions and working towards specific goals, even if the path may not be straightforward.
• The benefits of exploring different areas of interest and being open to unexpected career opportunities.

WE ALSO DISCUSS

• The journey of transitioning from a career in IT to a legal role, including the challenges and successes along the way.
• The intersection of IT and law, particularly in areas like data privacy and legal analytics.
• The role of networking and building rapport with professionals in different fields to facilitate career transitions.

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Get behind-the-scenes content from You Are A Lawyer.

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Interact with You Are A Lawyer

Kyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast.

Follow the podcast:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@youarealawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Hannah Beko, a seasoned real estate lawyer and founder of Authentically Speaking, shares her journey of finding her authentic voice and helping other lawyers do the same. Through her coaching and training programs, Hannah empowers lawyers to navigate stress, burnout, and low self-esteem, encouraging them to explore diverse career paths and embrace their true selves in the legal profession. Join us as Hannah delves into her experiences and insights on personal growth and professional development in the legal field.

LAWYER SIDE HUSTLES

Authentically Speaking is a business founded by Hannah Beko, a real estate lawyer with a passion for helping other lawyers find their authentic voice and navigate the challenges of the legal profession. Through training, coaching, and public speaking, Hannah aims to empower lawyers to be true to themselves and thrive in their careers. The name "Authentically Speaking" reflects Hannah's personal journey of finding her authentic voice and silencing the self-doubt that often plagues legal professionals. By sharing her experiences and insights, Hannah helps lawyers improve their mental health, well-being, and overall happiness in the legal field.

"It doesn't have to be one path or the other. It can be a bit of that path and a bit of something else" shares Hannah Beko in Episode 138 of You Are a Lawyer.

Hannah's own journey of running multiple businesses alongside her legal career serves as an inspiration for new lawyers and law students to explore different avenues and embrace the possibilities beyond traditional legal practice. Through Authentically Speaking, Hannah encourages lawyers to think outside the box and consider the multitude of paths available to them with a law degree.

LISTEN TO LEARN

• The importance of finding your authentic voice and being true to yourself in your career.
• The benefits of coaching and training for personal and professional growth.
• How to navigate career transitions and explore different opportunities with a law degree.

WE ALSO DISCUSS

• Hannah Beko's journey from being a real estate lawyer to running three businesses, including Authentically Speaking.
• The origin of the name "Authentically Speaking" and its focus on helping lawyers find their authentic selves.
• Advice for new lawyers and law students on exploring diverse career paths and leveraging modern tools like social media for growth.

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Get behind-the-scenes content from You Are A Lawyer.

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Interact with You Are A Lawyer

Kyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast.

Follow the podcast:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@youarealawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Larry Williams II shares his journey from starting his own solo law practice straight out of law school to eventually working as a criminal defense attorney for the Harris County Public Defender's Office in Houston. Throughout the episode, Larry discusses the importance of mentorship, the value of networking, and the versatility of a law degree, encouraging young lawyers and law students to keep pushing forward and believe in their abilities to succeed in the legal field. Join us as Larry provides insights and advice for those navigating the early years of their legal careers.

Lawyer Side Hustles

Larry's journey from solo practice to working for the Public Defender's Office in Houston showcases the potential for lawyers to pursue side businesses or ventures alongside their legal careers. By leveraging their problem-solving and analytical skills, lawyers can excel in entrepreneurial endeavors. Larry's advice to young lawyers and law students to "keep pushing" resonates with the idea of maintaining determination and resilience when exploring side hustles. This mindset can empower lawyers to navigate challenges and seize opportunities in both legal practice and side businesses.

"Know your worth, know your value, respect yourself, but also do the work," shares Larry Williams II in Episode 137 of You Are a Lawyer.

In this episode, Larry emphasized the importance of being open to various opportunities with a law degree. He mentioned how a law degree provides flexibility and can open doors to different career paths beyond practicing law.

LISTEN TO LEARN

• The importance of mentorship in the legal field and how it can help young lawyers navigate their careers effectively.
• The significance of being prepared and willing to put in the work to succeed in the legal profession.
• Advice on not boxing oneself in with a law degree and exploring diverse career paths beyond traditional legal roles.

WE ALSO DISCUSS

• Larry's journey from law school to practicing criminal defense and eventually joining the Public Defender's Office in Houston.
• The challenges and rewards of running a solo law practice, including the need for effective time management and business acumen.
• Insights on balancing work-life responsibilities and adapting to changes in personal circumstances while pursuing a legal career.

Join the FREE mailing list!

Get behind-the-scenes content from You Are A Lawyer.

1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com

2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR

3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen

4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!

Interact with You Are A Lawyer

Kyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast.

Follow the podcast:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@youarealawyer

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com