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

Danielle Lyn is a practicing attorney, coach, speaker, and podcast host who is boldly redefining what career success looks like. In this honest and energizing episode, Danielle shares her transition from corporate law to a more aligned life of coaching and creating content that empowers others. Whether you're a law student feeling boxed in or a mid-career professional exploring a pivot, this episode is a must-listen.

Lawyer Side Hustles

Danielle is the founder and host of Redefined Radio, a podcast and creative space where she tells her story, shares mindset tips, and highlights others who have pivoted from traditional careers. What began as a quiet dream rooted in her love for music and performance has evolved into a powerful platform that fuels her passion and helps others see what's possible.

"Let's just do it for no other reason because it's fulfilling to you. And whatever comes from it, comes from it," shares Danielle Lyn in Episode 187 of You Are a Lawyer.

Through the podcast—and her coaching and speaking work—Danielle is using her voice to bridge the gap between what people do and who they truly are. She's reclaiming her creativity, reimagining success, and helping others feel seen in the process.

LISTEN TO LEARN

• Why casting a wide net is one of the most strategic things you can do in your legal career
• How to overcome imposter syndrome and limiting beliefs while transitioning careers
• The importance of defining success for yourself—not your school, your firm, or your parents

WE ALSO DISCUSS

• How HBCU pride and mentorship fuel Danielle's commitment to helping others
• What law school doesn't teach you about the actual practice of law
• How creativity and storytelling can reignite your purpose and serve your career long-term

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Kyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast.

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

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Juliet Peters has never been afraid to reinvent herself. She started in journalism, moved into litigation, transitioned to in-house counsel, and now runs Framework Legal, a business law firm helping entrepreneurs navigate transactions and growth. Throughout her career, curiosity has been her greatest asset—leading her to explore new industries, embrace change, and design a career that fits her strengths. In this episode, Juliet shares why lawyers should lean into career evolution, how asking the right questions leads to success, and why flexibility is the key to longevity in law.

Lawyer Side Hustles

Juliet's work extends beyond legal services—she is also a coach and mentor, working with women entrepreneurs to navigate leadership, business ownership, and growth. She believes that women bring unique strengths to leadership but often face structural and societal challenges in scaling their businesses.

"Women do way better in communities. When they create and build a community, everyone in that community rises," shares Juliet Peters in Episode 186 of You Are a Lawyer.

As she pivots her career again, she is focusing more on coaching, leadership development, and media work. Returning to her journalism roots, she plans to build a media platform focused on educating and supporting women business owners. She encourages lawyers to embrace side businesses that align with their interests, whether in writing, coaching, or creating digital platforms to share knowledge.

LISTEN TO LEARN

• How curiosity can shape a legal career that evolves with you
• Why embracing change, rather than resisting it, leads to better career satisfaction
• How asking the right questions—whether in journalism, law, or business—can open doors to new opportunities

WE ALSO DISCUSS

• Juliet's career pivots from journalism to litigation to business law
• Why flexibility and a growth mindset are critical in legal and business careers
• The art of curiosity—how asking the right questions leads to smarter decisions and better business outcomes

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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

Susan Guthrie spent decades as a successful family law attorney, but when life pushed her to relocate and reimagine her career, she embraced innovation instead of starting over. Now, she's a nationally recognized mediation expert, online business owner, and podcast host, helping legal professionals expand their skills beyond traditional practice. In this episode, Susan shares how she transitioned from courtroom litigation to a thriving mediation business, the importance of leveraging technology in law, and why attorneys should think bigger when it comes to using their expertise.

Lawyer Side Hustles

Susan's career pivot didn't just lead her to mediation—it led her to building multiple successful businesses. When she first moved her practice online, colleagues started asking her how she did it, which led to the creation of Learn to Mediate Online, a training program that has now educated thousands of professionals.

"People kept coming back and saying, 'Well, what more can you teach me?' So I started creating programs on online marketing, website development, and podcasting. It all grew from people asking me for more information," shares Susan Guthrie in Episode 185 of You Are a Lawyer.

In addition to her mediation training programs, Susan also hosts The Divorce & Beyond Podcast, where she shares insights on family law, conflict resolution, and life after divorce. Her businesses show that lawyers can generate income and build authority in their field through education, media, and digital services.

LISTEN TO LEARN

• How to transition from litigation to mediation and build a thriving practice
• Why online mediation and digital tools are changing the legal industry
• How to use your legal knowledge to create multiple income streams

WE ALSO DISCUSS

• Susan's career shift from traditional law firm life to entrepreneurship
• The biggest challenges lawyers face when moving into mediation
• How to build a brand and business beyond billable hours

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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

Mark C. Fava has had a career unlike most lawyers. A former naval flight officer, aviation lawyer, and now a vice president at the world's largest aerospace manufacturing company, Mark has spent decades leading in high-pressure environments. His new book, Lessons from the Admiral, Naval Wisdom and Sea Stories for Leaders, shares leadership insights from his time working with an admiral and how those lessons apply to law, business, and life. In this episode, we dive into his career pivots, risk-taking, and why understanding people—not just legal rules—is the key to success.

Lawyer Side Hustles

Mark's career has been defined by leadership, storytelling, and mentorship—all of which led him to his side hustle as an author and speaker. His book, Lessons from the Admiral, Naval Wisdom and Sea Stories for Leaders, is not just a collection of naval stories—it's a leadership guide for professionals, including lawyers, looking to refine their decision-making, communication, and problem-solving skills.

"The same habits I learned as an admiral's aide transferred almost flawlessly to being a lawyer... It's very simple things, being on time, striving for perfection, knowing the audience, knowing the people in the room," shares Mark C. Fava in Episode 183 of You Are a Lawyer.

Beyond writing, Mark C. Fava speaks at industry events, law schools, and leadership conferences, sharing insights from his military and legal career. His side hustles allow him to combine his passion for mentorship with his expertise in leadership and law, proving that lawyers can build fulfilling careers outside of traditional practice.

LISTEN TO LEARN

• How leadership skills from the military translate into law and business
• Why taking strategic career risks leads to greater opportunities
• How to develop relationships that open doors and create long-term success

WE ALSO DISCUSS

• Mark C. Fava's experience as a naval flight officer and aviation lawyer
• The process of writing Lessons from the Admiral and its biggest takeaways
• How storytelling and strategic thinking shape great leadership in law

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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

Dina Cataldo knows what it's like to feel completely overwhelmed by the demands of being a lawyer. As a former criminal prosecutor, she worked long hours, prioritized everything except herself, and thought stress was just part of the job—until she was forced to rethink everything. After a life-changing health diagnosis, Dina began a journey to redefine success and take control of her time, energy, and mindset. Now, as a Master Certified Coach for Lawyers, she helps attorneys do the same. In this episode, Dina shares how lawyers can break free from stress, manage their time more effectively, and build practices that support their lives—not the other way around.

Lawyer Side Hustles

Dina's journey into entrepreneurship didn't start with coaching—it started with tea. Wanting to try something new, she launched a loose-leaf tea business, thinking it would be an exciting way to explore business ownership. But as she learned more about entrepreneurship and business strategy, she realized that selling physical products wasn't where her true passion lay.

"I created a business I don't actually like. I don't like having a physical product. I don't necessarily want to be tied down to this model that I currently have and I'm not really energized towards growing this," shares Dina Cataldo in Episode 183 of You Are a Lawyer.

Rather than forcing herself to continue with something that didn't excite her, she pivoted. She applied what she had learned from running a business to a field she was deeply passionate about—coaching. Now, through Be A Better Lawyer Coaching, she teaches attorneys how to work smarter, manage their time more effectively, and build fulfilling careers without burning out. Her experience highlights that side hustles aren't just about extra income—they're a way to experiment, grow, and ultimately find the work that truly lights you up.

LISTEN TO LEARN

• How to set boundaries, take control of your time, and eliminate overwhelm
• Why mindset shifts are the key to breaking free from burnout and stress
• How to create a legal career that supports your personal and professional goals

WE ALSO DISCUSS

• Dina's journey from prosecutor to full-time coach for lawyers
• The importance of prioritizing yourself—before your career forces you to
• How small changes in your routine can transform your productivity and well-being

Join the FREE mailing list!

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

Rebecca Larson Secord didn't plan on becoming a real estate lawyer—it just happened. What started as a temporary gig while navigating a tough job market turned into a thriving career in real estate law, and today, Rebecca is the owner of Your Home Legal, a San Diego-based law firm helping buyers, sellers, and investors mitigate risk. In this episode, we visit Rebecca's journey from law school to entrepreneurship, why real estate law is so much more than transactions, and how she built a business that aligns with her expertise and personal commitments.

Lawyer Side Hustles

Rebecca didn't just build a law firm—she built a business. Unlike many attorneys who focus solely on legal work, she took the time to learn the ins and outs of running a profitable practice, from financial management to marketing. This business-minded approach has allowed her to structure her firm in a way that supports both her professional goals and her personal life.

"I didn't know how to run a business when I started. Law school doesn't teach you that. But I surrounded myself with mentors, learned my numbers, and built something that works for me," shares Rebecca Larson Secord in Episode 182 of You Are a Lawyer.

Outside of her law practice, Rebecca is deeply involved in real estate coaching and professional development. She believes that lawyers—especially those running their own firms—should invest in business education, whether that's through formal coaching programs or networking with other law firm owners. By treating her practice as both a legal service and a business, she has created a model that allows for long-term sustainability and growth.

LISTEN TO LEARN

• How Rebecca turned an unexpected opportunity into a successful real estate law career
• The differences between real estate law across states and what lawyers should know before making a move
• Why understanding risk mitigation is essential in real estate transactions

WE ALSO DISCUSS

• Rebecca's transition from Virginia to California and the challenges of re-qualifying as a lawyer
• The realities of running a law firm and what it takes to build a business.The importance of mentorship, coaching, and knowing your numbers when starting a practice
• The importance of mentorship, coaching, and knowing your numbers when starting a practice

Join the FREE mailing list!

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

Yeve Chitiga, a lawyer turned executive coach, is on a mission to help attorneys move past fear, doubt, and uncertainty to create careers that actually excite them. After a decade of practicing law, Yeve realized that so many lawyers felt stuck, uninspired, or unsure of their next steps—so she created Yevezo Coaching & Consulting to help them find clarity, confidence, and joy in their work. In this episode, we dive into the power of coaching, how lawyers can embrace career transitions, and why asking yourself what do I really want? is the first step toward transformation.

Lawyer Side Hustles

Yeve isn't just a lawyer and a coach—she's also a published author and entrepreneur who understands firsthand how side hustles can lead to larger opportunities. During the pandemic, she wrote a children's book and built a media company to market it, an experience that deepened her understanding of branding, business development, and the power of storytelling.

"Being an entrepreneur is like bringing something into the world that didn't exist before. It's another way of creating, just like coaching," shares Yeve Chitiga in Episode 181 of You Are a Lawyer.

Beyond her own creative ventures, Yeve works with clients who are exploring passion projects, launching businesses, or testing new career paths through side hustles. She believes that having a side hustle isn't just about making extra income—it's about giving yourself permission to explore new interests and develop new skills. Whether a lawyer wants to start a consulting practice, write a book, or build a personal brand, Yeve helps them develop strategic plans to integrate their legal expertise with their entrepreneurial vision. She emphasizes that these projects don't have to be all-or-nothing; they can be stepping stones to even greater opportunities down the line.

LISTEN TO LEARN

• How coaching can help lawyers break through fear and uncertainty to build fulfilling careers
• Why mindset shifts and self-reflection are essential for navigating career transitions
• How to identify what truly excites you and create a path to get there

WE ALSO DISCUSS

• Yeve's personal journey from practicing law to becoming an executive coach
• The common career struggles lawyers face and how to move past them
• How to know when you're ready for coaching and what to expect from the process

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Kyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast.

Follow the podcast:

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

Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Raana Kashani Gregg, attorney-turned-beauty entrepreneur, shares her journey from running her own law practice to founding Lunaescent Clean Skin Labs, an innovative skincare brand. After experiencing severe dermatitis from applying eczema treatments to her son, she saw a gap in the market for hygienic, non-porous skincare applicators—and decided to create one herself. In this episode, Raana opens up about pivoting from law to entrepreneurship, navigating the patent process, and why lawyers have the skills to build businesses in any industry.

Lawyer Side Hustles

Raana's journey into entrepreneurship started with a single idea: a hygienic, reusable skincare applicator. While most beauty founders come from marketing or cosmetic chemistry backgrounds, she approached the industry as an inventor—relying on her problem-solving mindset, legal expertise, and a scientific approach to product development. Her brand, Lunaescent Clean Skin Labs, is built on innovation, sustainability, and hygiene, filling a crucial gap in the skincare industry.

"A lot of skincare brands have a marketing background—I had to figure everything out from scratch. But I also had the legal and research skills to protect my invention and bring it to market," shares Raana Kashani Gregg in Episode 180 of You Are a Lawyer.

Beyond product development, Raana has embraced brand collaborations and digital marketing to scale her business. She has partnered with major skincare brands to bundle her applicators with high-end serums, positioning her product as an essential tool rather than just another accessory. Her story is a masterclass in how lawyers can build successful side businesses—whether through invention, consulting, or creative entrepreneurship.

LISTEN TO LEARN

• How Raana identified a problem in skincare application and turned it into an innovative business
• The realities of patenting a product and what lawyers should know before creating their own invention
• How legal skills like negotiation, research, and strategic thinking help in launching and scaling a business

WE ALSO DISCUSS

• Raana's transition from running her own law practice to becoming a beauty entrepreneur
• The challenges of entering the skincare industry without a marketing background
• Why lawyers should embrace risk-taking and entrepreneurship, even in industries outside of law

Join the FREE mailing list!

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

Tashira Halyard, a former litigator turned solopreneur, content creator, and activist, joins Kyla to share how she built a career that aligns with her values and creative passions. From navigating law school transfers to launching a blog that became a thriving business, Tashira breaks down what it means to truly own your career choices. If you've ever questioned whether you need the "traditional" lawyer path to succeed, this episode is full of insight, encouragement, and real talk about building a life that feels as good as it looks.

Lawyer Side Hustles

Tashira didn't plan on becoming a full-time content creator, but what started as a creative outlet during law school turned into a business that now sustains her financially. Her blog and social media platforms have grown into a successful brand, offering collaborations with major companies and speaking opportunities that align with her values.

"I remember calling somebody and being like, how do I scrub the internet? I don't want someone to Google me and find my blog," shares Tashira Halyard in Episode 179 of You Are a Lawyer.

Now, instead of hiding her creative work, she fully embraces it. From styling advice to financial literacy, she shares content that reflects her multidimensional interests while leveraging her legal knowledge to negotiate brand deals and run a sustainable business. Her journey demonstrates that side hustles aren't just about extra income—they can evolve into careers that provide both financial freedom and creative fulfillment.

LISTEN TO LEARN

• How to confidently step away from traditional legal roles and create a career that works for you
• Why negotiating, brand-building, and self-advocacy are crucial skills lawyers can use beyond the courtroom
• How to balance financial security with creative freedom in a solopreneurship or side hustle

WE ALSO DISCUSS

• Tashira's journey from law school at FAMU to Georgetown and how she navigated transferring
• The role of community and mentorship in building a sustainable and fulfilling legal career
• How to use social media for professional and personal growth without burnout

Join the FREE mailing list!

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

Neena Speer, a published author, founder of a nonprofit, and solo practitioner, joins Kyla to share how she built a purpose-driven career rooted in mentorship, advocacy, and transparency. From creating her nonprofit Step 1-2-3 to writing Dear Future Lawyer, Neena opens up about the challenges of law school, embracing failure, and the power of mentorship to create lasting change. This episode is an inspiring look at how lawyers can turn their personal experiences into impactful careers that align with their values.

Lawyer Side Hustles

Neena's side hustles reflect her commitment to mentorship and storytelling, demonstrating how lawyers can channel their passions into impactful projects. Her nonprofit, Step 1-2-3, was born from a personal promise to remain a lifelong mentor to a student she guided during a program that later lost contact with her mentees. The program has since grown into a nationwide and virtual initiative, connecting mentors and mentees across the U.S. and even globally.

"I didn't like red tape. I didn't like being told no. So I created my own nonprofit to make the impact I knew was possible," shares Neena Speer in Episode 178 of You Are a Lawyer.

Beyond her nonprofit, Neena's side hustle as an author has had a profound impact on minority female law students. Dear Future Lawyer serves as both a survival guide and a source of encouragement, addressing the unique challenges faced by minority women in law school. By sharing her personal story and lessons learned, Neena has created a platform that empowers others to embrace authenticity and resilience in their legal journeys. Her side hustles are deeply intertwined with her core mission of mentorship and advocacy, proving that lawyers can create meaningful, multifaceted careers.

LISTEN TO LEARN

• How to transform your personal experiences into purpose-driven projects
• Why embracing failure and sharing your authentic story can empower others and redefine your career
• Actionable advice for creating mentorship programs that foster meaningful, lasting connections

WE ALSO DISCUSS

• Neena's journey from law school to becoming an author, nonprofit founder, and solo practitioner
• The importance of finding your "why" in law school and how it can shape your career
• Practical tips for navigating challenges as a minority female law student and lawyer

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