When it comes to ambiguity in law firms, the lack of transparency is the first thing that comes to mind for Annie. She points out that there should be a simple, straightforward path with clear instructions on each assignment and an obvious ladder to climb within the firm. In reality, there are so many hidden things that lawyers are left to just figure out on their own. 

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/187

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

In this new series, the two of them discuss the book Bullshit Jobs: A Theory by David Graeber and dive into some of the book's observations. This first episode covers why you should care about this book and answer, “Is being a lawyer a bullshit job?”

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/186

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

Alex Su describes this as game selection. In business roles, especially sales, marketing, and business development, success often depends on trying things, learning what works, moving on from what does not, and prioritizing the things that actually move the needle. The question becomes less about whether you can fix yourself into a better lawyer and more about whether you are playing the right game for your strengths.

In this episode of The Former Lawyer Podcast, Sarah Cottrell talks with returning guest Alex Su about what lawyers need to understand when they move out of practice and into business roles. They talk about why legal training can make that shift feel uncomfortable, how performance-based work rewards a different kind of resilience, and why the right role can make strengths visible that law may have treated like problems.

1:43 - Alex’s move from practicing law into a business career in the legal space

3:55 - Why business roles reward a different skill set than legal practice

5:49 - The comfort of hours worked and why the shift to ROI can feel difficult

7:21 - What changes when the goal is producing outcomes instead of putting in more hours

9:15 - Why experimentation requires a different relationship with failure

10:28 - How perfectionism can become counterproductive in performance-based roles

13:05 - When traits that are treated like problems in law can work well elsewhere

14:54 - Alex’s idea of game selection and choosing the right role for your strengths

21:08 - What Latitude partners do after leaving the practice of law

24:22 - Why business roles require ruthless prioritization

27:10 - The kind of resilience that business roles require

30:33 - How legal practice moralizes failure in a way other roles often do not

33:56 - Why a successful pivot requires knowing yourself and staying a student

36:34 - Head intelligence, instinct, and emotional intelligence in non-practicing roles

39:39 - Alex’s advice for lawyers considering a pivot to sales, business development, or business

Mentioned In How Lawyers Can Rethink Their Skills for Business with Alex Su

From Biglaw to Legal Tech with Alex Su

Alex Su’s Substack

Alex Su on LinkedIn

Latitude Legal | Legal Partner Job Posting

First Steps to Leaving the Law

Former Lawyer Collaborative

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

This episode serves as a reminder that even though it's not available to everyone, because it depends a lot on your particular employer, if it is something that your employer offers, and if you are struggling, it can be an incredibly helpful tool in your mental health toolkit.

Sarah is joined by Megan Nogasky to discuss taking mental health leave, what it's like, what you can expect, and some of the things to think about when you're considering it.

Show notes at https://formerlawyer.com/176

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

That is where a lot of burned out lawyers get stuck. They assume that if they do not have hours and hours each week, whole weekends, or a huge amount of bandwidth to put toward leaving the law, then they cannot make any real progress. But Sarah talks about why consistency matters more than massive amounts of time, especially when everything already feels hard.

In this episode of The Former Lawyer Podcast, Sarah Cottrell talks about leaving the law when you are already burned out, why the process may require less weekly time than you think, how bridge jobs can create relief, and when mental health leave may be worth considering.

0:27 - Leaving the law when you are already burned out

1:09 - The question burned out lawyers ask when they know they need to figure out what comes next

3:14 - Why career change does not require five or ten hours a week

4:54 - How bridge jobs can help burned out lawyers get relief

6:51 - Why mental health leave exists and when lawyers should consider it

8:43 - What to remember if you are leaving the law while already burned out

Mentioned In Leaving the Law When You’re Already Burned Out

Take Mental Health Leave Of Absence From Your Law Firm

Burnout In Lawyers With Ilona Salmons

Signs Of Lawyer Burnout - What Lawyers Need To Know

First Steps to Leaving the Law

The Former Lawyer Collaborative

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

That fear is what keeps so many lawyers where they are, even when staying is actively hurting them. For lawyers trained by a profession that treats every mistake like malpractice, it doesn't take much to go from "I might choose wrong" to "I should never choose at all."

In this episode of The Former Lawyer Podcast, Sarah Cottrell talks with returning guest Kelcey Baker about what it actually looks like to make career moves that don't go as planned, how Kelcey navigated leaving two law firms and eventually launching a consulting business, why the idea that you only get one shot at a career change keeps lawyers stuck, and what changes when you stop trying to make the perfect decision and start making any decision at all.

1:28 - The fear of making a mistake and choosing something that's even worse than where you are now

2:59 - Kelcey's first "did I make a huge mistake" moment and why it wasn't law school

6:25 - How realizing law is a bad fit damages your ability to trust yourself to make career decisions

9:24 - Why lawyers who worked as paralegals before law school often feel an extra layer of self-blame

11:19 - The "I should have known" trap and why you couldn't have known what you didn't experience

14:35 - How the experience of a bad fit impacts the next career decision and the one after that

17:40 - Why most people who go to law school were too young to have done the inner work of knowing themselves

19:17 - Why punishing your younger self for not knowing what you know now keeps you stuck

20:57 - The pressure to find the capital-T Thing and how fear of judgment keeps lawyers in jobs that are hurting them

30:48 - The binary thinking that makes it feel like you're either a lawyer or you're nothing

33:33 - How Kelcey built a consulting business by combining what she was good at with what she actually liked

36:02 - Why perfectionist, eldest-daughter types forget they're resourceful enough to figure it out

41:03 - You will be okay, and if the next thing isn't right either, you can keep going

43:46 - Bridge jobs, lily pad jobs, and why it doesn't have to be forever to be worth doing

Mentioned In Making a Career Change When You're Afraid of Getting It Wrong with Kelcey Baker

Kelcey Baker on LinkedIn

Validation: An Incredible Tool for Unhappy Lawyers with Kelcey Baker

Startling Parallels Between Narcissism In Law Firms And Family Units

How Law Firms Avoid All Responsibility for Toxic Environments with Kelcey Baker

Lawyers - Hoping To Be Hit By A Bus Isn't Normal

First Steps to Leaving the Law

The Former Lawyer Collaborative

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

But the decision to become a lawyer was made at a specific age, with a specific amount of information. The lived experience of actually practicing law is new information. And in almost any other context, no one would question whether you should update a decision when the information changes.

In this episode of The Former Lawyer Podcast, Sarah Cottrell talks about why so many lawyers feel ashamed of wanting to change their minds, where that "don't be a quitter" conditioning comes from, why it takes maturity to look at your decisions and choose something different, and why therapy is often the best place to start untangling all of it.

0:30 - The shame lawyers feel about changing their minds and where it comes from

1:04 - How the decision to leave becomes tangled with feeling "wrong" about the original choice

2:10 - The decision to become a lawyer was made with limited information at a specific age

3:14 - Why lawyers don't apply the "new information" standard to their own experience

4:00 - The "don't be a quitter" conditioning and how good-student types absorb it

7:55 - Holding your past self to a standard no human can be held to

Mentioned In The Shame Lawyers Feel About Wanting to Leave Law

First Steps to Leaving the Law

The Former Lawyer Collaborative

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

Zach Reisch didn't have a master plan when he left commercial litigation. He had a spouse building a business, a growing sense that law just wasn't compatible with who he was, and a willingness to try something before he knew whether it would work. What he found was something Sarah talks about often but lawyers tend to resist. Clarity follows action.

In this episode of The Former Lawyer Podcast, Sarah talks with Zach about what made him realize Biglaw wasn't a fit and how anxiety made it difficult to tell the difference between something being scary and something being wrong, what it was actually like to go from litigation to personal training and small business ownership, and why tying your identity to achievement doesn't go away just because you change jobs.

1:27 - Why law school felt like a decent fit but practicing law did not

3:51 - Getting exactly one Biglaw offer and choosing commercial litigation without knowing what it would be like

7:29 - How anxiety made it hard to separate "this is uncomfortable" from "this is wrong for me"

8:33 - Why lawyers think they should be able to think their way through a nervous system response

12:11 - Still having nightmares about his law job and the identity crisis of feeling like he was failing

13:14 - What actually helped was the podcast, therapy, and talking to anyone who wasn't a lawyer

16:58 - Why clarity follows action and how waiting for a perfect plan keeps lawyers stuck

20:29 - Why individual interaction was the missing piece in his desire to help people

22:46 - The practical realities of becoming a personal trainer as a second career

29:19 - Why tying your identity to achievement doesn't go away just because you leave law

33:51 - Being willing to try something without knowing if it's going to work

Mentioned In From Commercial Litigator to Personal Trainer and Business Owner with Zach Reisch

Rozzie Fitness

First Steps to Leaving the Law

The Former Lawyer Collaborative

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

What actually happens is the opposite. You sit down to revise it, you stare at a bunch of legalese you wrote years ago, and within an hour you've convinced yourself you have no transferable skills and should probably just quit and stay in the law forever. That's not because the skills aren't there. It's because there's nothing to translate them toward yet.

In this episode of The Former Lawyer Podcast, Sarah Cottrell explains why revising your resume is actually one of the last steps in a lawyer career change, and what she has people start with instead. She talks about why trying to write 27 different resumes for 27 possible roles is a waste of time, why values are the real starting point, and why most lawyers who try to start with the resume end up more discouraged than when they began.

0:44 - Revising your resume is the worst place to start

2:29 - Knowing what you're targeting is what makes the resume easy

5:10 - What actually works when you go to revise the resume

6:32 - Values are the first part of the framework inside The Collab

8:56 - Don't start with your resume, start with values and therapy

Mentioned In Translating Legal Skills for a Non-Legal Job Doesn't Start With Your Resume

How To Revise Your Resumé For A Non-Legal Job

Break Into Legal Tech and AI as a Lawyer with Ben Chiriboga

First Steps to Leaving the Law

The Former Lawyer Collaborative

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

What Amy eventually figured out was that she was living somebody else's perfect life. The things that mattered to her, her values, the way she thought, and who she actually was as a person were not showing up in the life she was actually living.

In this episode of The Former Lawyer Podcast, Sarah Cottrell talks with Amy about what it looked like to be a Biglaw partner whose values did not match her job, why being a free thinker is not rewarded at a big firm, what finally moved her to make a change, and how she ended up working as a sex and relationship coach while still practicing law on her own terms.

1:34 - Why Amy went to law school after restaurant management and the LSAT-as-decision-maker pattern

2:33 - Wanting to help people through law and how recruiting funneled her into business litigation instead

4:51 - The conveyor belt and why the realities of practice diverge from what brings people to law school

7:48 - Why being a free thinker is not rewarded at a big firm

8:48 - On paper everything looked perfect, partner, deputy general counsel, two kids, and the constant restless feeling underneath

9:54 - Neurodivergence, the strong sense of justice, and why these traits do not get rewarded in big firms

13:16 - Where Amy's values clashed with the actual work of business litigation

18:06 - Why "just don't care" is not actually possible when someone is being rude and disrespectful

20:19 - Pleasure as the body's antidote to stress and how it resets the nervous system

22:43 - The early seed of wanting to be a sex coach and why Amy tucked it away for years

25:38 - The reactions Amy got from colleagues, friends, and family when leaving Biglaw

29:16 - You do not have to leave law entirely, you can find a way to practice that aligns with your values

33:22 - What Amy recommends if you are curious about coaching as a career

34:00 - What sex and relationship coaching actually is and who Amy works with

Mentioned In Leaving Biglaw to Become a Sex and Relationship Coach with Amy Terwilleger

Amy Terwilleger's Website | Linktree

Amy Terwilleger on Instagram (@millennialdrruth)

First Steps to Leaving the Law

The Former Lawyer Collaborative

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

The waiting itself is part of what's keeping you there. The need to feel justified is almost always external, and it's often the same pattern that got you into law in the first place. Looking outside yourself for confirmation that you're on the right path, instead of trusting what you already know about your own experience.

In this episode of The Former Lawyer Podcast, Sarah Cottrell talks about why so many lawyers ask whether they're justified in leaving, where that question actually comes from, and what it costs you to keep waiting for someone else to validate what you already feel. Sarah also covers why this is a skill worth building before you figure out what's next and where therapy fits into the work of untangling it.

0:29 - The question that comes up most often when lawyers think about leaving the law

1:02 - Why there is always someone who has it worse and why that keeps lawyers stuck

1:55 - Why the struggle to feel justified in leaving is fundamentally external

2:35 - "Am I justified in leaving" is really a question about who gets to say

3:55 - Why so many lawyers cannot trust their own experience

4:38 - What you actually need to access to find something better

5:57 - Why this needs to be your choice and not something you wait for permission to do

6:32 - The skill you are going to be developing as you move out of the law

7:56 - What it tells Sarah when she hears lawyers asking if they are justified in leaving

Mentioned In Trying to Justify Leaving Law Is What’s Keeping You There

First Steps to Leaving the Law

The Former Lawyer Collaborative

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

The lawyers who come to Sarah after making a move that did not work out are usually the ones who waited until they were close to leaving to start thinking about what they actually wanted to do next. By then, there is not much time left for the reflection that process requires.

In this episode of The Former Lawyer Podcast, Sarah Cottrell talks about how to tell which situation you're in, why a bridge job is often the right move if your environment is genuinely toxic, and what lawyers in less extreme situations can be doing right now to make the time they're still there feel useful instead of stuck.

0:56 - What a bridge job actually does when you're in a toxic environment

2:23 - Why "tolerating" your job never means staying somewhere that's damaging you

3:24 - Being realistic about your timeline and what the work actually looks like

4:11 - How long the Collab framework typically takes when you give it a couple hours a week

5:16 - Why the day you can leave is not the day to start figuring out what's next

6:14 - What makes tolerating your job easier while you're preparing to leave

7:40 - What to do if you see yourself leaving eventually but not soon

9:15 - Why giving yourself time instead of rushing is one of the best uses of your time in a lawyer job

Mentioned In Tolerating Your Lawyer Job While You're Preparing to Leave

Do You Need a Bridge Job? Key Questions for Lawyers in Transition

First Steps to Leaving the Law

The Former Lawyer Collaborative

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

Ben Chiriboga figured this out the hard way. He spent two years after leaving practice chasing legal tech roles without any real direction, burned through his savings, and eventually found his path, going on to become a founding team member of a legal tech startup. Now he runs Reframe Lawyer, a platform built specifically to help lawyers move into legal tech and AI careers.

In this episode of The Former Lawyer Podcast, Sarah Cottrell talks with Ben about the three main career tracks available to lawyers in legal tech and AI, why a JD is a bigger competitive advantage than most lawyers think, and why figuring out who you are and what you want has to happen before anything else.

0:52 - Ben Chiriboga on founding Reframe Lawyer and his path from practice to legal tech

2:27 - Why legal tech keeps coming up for lawyers who want to leave practice

4:07 - No agreed terms, no standardized titles, and what that means for your job search

4:45 - You're not alone in being confused about where to start in legal tech

9:17 - The three main career paths in legal tech and AI for lawyers leaving practice

11:41 - Product roles and why lawyers are better positioned for them than they think

13:00 - Go-to-market roles and why a JD is a competitive advantage in sales conversations

13:48 - Why operations roles are booming inside legal tech companies right now

15:13 - JD required vs. JD preferred and what your legal background signals to employers

17:55 - Why lawyers automatically rank in the top 1% of candidates for legal tech jobs

24:52 - Why lawyers try to execute before they know their objective

30:25 - Why applying for every legal tech role is a recipe for madness

35:37 - How to speak to a role you've never held and start building proof of interest

39:38 - Why updating your resume is the last thing you should do

42:24 - Ben's closing take on legal tech as a viable career path for lawyers ready to make a move

Mentioned In How to Break Into Legal Tech and AI as a Lawyer with Ben Chiriboga

Reframe Lawyer | Ben Chiriboga on LinkedIn

Escaping Lawyer Burnout for Legal Tech with Ben Chiriboga

How To Revise Your Resumé For A Non-Legal Job

From Biglaw to Legal Tech with Alex Su

The Claude-Native Law Firm by Zack Shapiro

First Steps to Leaving the Law

The Former Lawyer Collaborative

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

What Sarah sees with her clients is that the sense of responsibility doesn't stay proportional. It ends up putting so much weight on what other people might have to deal with that a lawyer's own mental, physical, and emotional well-being barely registers in the calculation. Toxic environments are especially good at making this worse.

In this episode of The Former Lawyer Podcast, Sarah Cottrell talks about why responsibility shows up so consistently in her clients' assessment results, what happens when it becomes overdeveloped, and why it makes it hard for lawyers to even let themselves think about leaving.

1:28 - How responsibility shows up in CliftonStrengths, VIA, and the Enneagram

3:01 - What Sarah sees with lawyers whose jobs aren't good for them

4:26 - Why highly responsible lawyers struggle to give themselves permission to even think about leaving

5:07 - What an overdeveloped sense of responsibility actually means

6:03 - How toxic environments exploit lawyers who are highly responsible

7:28 - The faulty logic that keeps highly responsible lawyers from cutting themselves any slack

9:18 - Why it matters to know if responsibility is one of your top characteristics

Mentioned In How an Overdeveloped Sense of Responsibility Keeps Lawyers Stuck

First Steps to Leaving the Law

The Former Lawyer Collaborative

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

That's not incidental. The kind of person who interprets "do your best" that way is often exactly the kind of person who ends up becoming a lawyer. And that standard follows them.

In this episode of The Former Lawyer Podcast, Sarah Cottrell talks about what that standard is actually costing lawyers who want to make a change, and why doing B-minus work might be worth considering.

1:00 - What "do your best" actually means if you're wired like a lawyer

1:56 - Why caring about doing good work makes this harder

3:56 - The B-minus work concept and why it matters

4:37 - Why this is harder for lawyers from marginalized communities

5:04 - How loosening that standard makes space for other things

5:24 - Why therapy is worth considering if this resonates

Mentioned in What Doing Your Best Is Costing You as a Lawyer

First Steps to Leaving the Law

The Former Lawyer Collaborative

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

Sarah Cottrell frequently gets this question from lawyers considering The Former Lawyer Collaborative, and her answer might change how you think about the timing of your next move. She explains why the assumption that you need to be "ready" before you start often works against you, and what she's seen actually happen when people stop waiting.

In this episode of The Former Lawyer Podcast, Sarah talks about why she built The Collab to fit inside the life of a working lawyer, what the time commitment really looks like, and why the lawyers who start before they feel ready often surprise themselves.

0:28 - The practical question lawyers keep asking before joining The Collab

0:53 - What The Former Lawyer Collaborative actually is and how it works

1:38 - Do you need to quit your job before starting this process

2:25 - How people find The Collab and when they typically join

2:57 - Why less pressure to leave can actually mean faster progress

3:29 - The time commitment question and what "a couple hours a week" really gets you

5:15 - Other reasons you might quit, and why most people in The Collab don't

6:23 - Why The Collab was designed to fit inside a lawyer's life

7:06 - How to join and where to find more info

Mentioned In You Don't Have to Quit Your Job to Start Leaving Law

Five Years of Helping Lawyers Leave the Law inside The Former Lawyer Collaborative

First Steps to Leaving the Law

The Former Lawyer Collaborative

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

The problem is that feelings aren't actually optional. The physical sensations that come with emotional states are nervous system responses, not choices. Suppressing them doesn't make them go away. They get smashed down until the nervous system forces the issue, regardless.

In this episode of The Former Lawyer Podcast, Sarah Cottrell talks about why lawyers operate as though their feelings are optional, where that belief comes from, and what it costs them over time. She covers how to start noticing whether this is happening to you, why irritation at other people's feelings is a flag worth paying attention to, and why therapy is often the most effective place to start unraveling something that didn't develop overnight.

0:53 - Why so many lawyers believe their feelings are optional

2:13 - Why feelings are nervous system responses and not actually a choice

2:48 - Where the belief that feelings are optional comes from and how it gets reinforced

4:16 - "I'll feel things when I retire" and why this is probably how you're functioning even if you'd never say it out loud

6:19 - What happens when the nervous system finally says no and why it goes the way it does

7:21 - How to notice if you're treating your feelings as optional and why irritation at other people's feelings is a flag

8:44 - Why therapy is especially useful here and what to do if this resonated

Mentioned In Why Lawyers Think Feelings Are Optional and What It Costs Them

Why High-Achieving Lawyers Stay in Jobs That Are Hurting Them

First Steps to Leaving the Law

The Former Lawyer Collaborative

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

That disconnect often has roots in neurodiversity or trauma history. Both can produce someone who is exceptionally good at pushing through, sublimating their own needs, and performing under conditions that are genuinely harmful to their mental, physical, and emotional health. And because the external picture looks fine, it can be very hard to see.

In this episode of The Former Lawyer Podcast, Sarah Cottrell walks through why this happens, how ADHD, PTSD, and CPTSD can all factor in, why the belief that achievement equals worth makes it so hard to let go even when something is hurting you, and why therapy is such an important part of unraveling it.

0:30 - Why lawyers who are high achievers can be good at something that is not sustainable for them

1:28 - The "I can do this so I should do this" trap and why external markers are not the whole picture

3:24 - How ADHD brains create urgency to initiate tasks and what that costs your nervous system

4:28 - Why doing well as a lawyer can feel like proof you are meant to stay

5:16 - How PTSD and CPTSD factor in and why so many lawyers are highly adapted to deal with difficult conditions

6:43 - How perfectionism develops as a survival strategy and why it follows lawyers into their careers

7:41 - The belief that you are only valuable when you are achieving and why it makes it so hard to leave

8:36 - Why therapy matters so much for lawyers who are high achievers thinking about leaving

10:01 - What Sarah wants you to know if the job is crushing you but you feel like you have to stay

Mentioned In Why High-Achieving Lawyers Stay in Jobs That Are Hurting Them

Signs of Malignant Narcissism in the Legal Profession [TFLP 127]

Does Being a Lawyer Lead to ADHD? Unpacking the Relationship with Annie Little [TFLP206]

First Steps to Leaving the Law

The Former Lawyer Collaborative

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

That is where perfectionism becomes a trap. When you hold yourself to a standard you would never apply to anyone else, leaving starts to feel like weakness, or like you are abandoning the people around you. The result is that lawyers who are deeply miserable keep going, often until their body forces the issue for them.

In this episode of The Former Lawyer Podcast, Sarah Cottrell breaks down why this kind of perfectionism is more common than most lawyers want to admit, where it comes from, and why recognizing it is one of the most important things you can do if you are thinking about leaving law.

1:03 — Why being highly responsible and hard on yourself feels like humility but isn't

2:04 — Why holding yourself to a higher standard than everyone else is actually about ego

3:02 — The vacuum-sealed pod problem and why "everyone makes mistakes" doesn't feel true about you

6:01 — How this mindset makes it hard to leave, from feeling like you're abandoning people to telling yourself you're just weak

7:35 — How to know if you're this person and what it actually costs you

9:17 — Why therapy is worth bringing this up in, even if Sarah's framing annoys you

10:31 — What happens when lawyers don't let themselves leave until their body forces the issue

11:48 — What to actually sit with if this episode resonated

Mentioned In The Perfectionist Trap That Makes It Hard to Leave Law

First Steps to Leaving the Law 

The Former Lawyer Collaborative

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

One of those things is reconnecting with a hobby. Not in a hardcore, train-for-a-marathon way, but in a small, low-stakes way that starts to rebuild the muscle of knowing what you actually like and what actually feels good to you. That skill, knowing what you want and acting on it, is one of the most important things you can develop when it comes time to figure out what your next career looks like.

In this episode of The Former Lawyer Podcast, Sarah Cottrell walks through why hobbies matter more than most unhappy lawyers would expect, how to think about starting small, and why reconnecting with the things that bring you joy makes it easier to leave when you are ready.

0:02 — What you can do right now to set yourself up for leaving law, even before you're ready

0:56 — Why hobbies matter for lawyers thinking about a career change

1:11 — How work crowds out everything else and why that's so common for unhappy lawyers

1:54 — The grocery and dry cleaning hobby era (you are not alone)

2:23 — How reconnecting with what you like helps you figure out what career actually fits you

3:25 — Why this works even if you're not close to leaving and don not have much time

3:33 — What starting small actually looks like and why going all in is not the point

6:00 — Rituals, rhythms, and reminding yourself you are a person and not a machine

7:25 — The bonus benefit of hobbies that involve other people when you are thinking about leaving law

8:27 — The real skill you are building and why it matters for your lawyer career change

Mentioned In Why Unhappy Lawyers Should Pick Up a Hobby Before They're Ready to Leave

First Steps to Leaving the Law 

The Former Lawyer Collaborative

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The questions in this episode are the real questions you should be asking yourself if you're considering law school. And if you're already a lawyer, these same questions will be helpful for you too.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/297

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She also talks about what Former Lawyer stands for, where your money goes if you work with her, and why she will probably never stop telling you to go to therapy.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/296

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The disillusionment began during law school, where he first encountered the all-consuming culture of Biglaw. While his peers seemed 100% focused on their identity as attorneys, Dan realized early on that having a life outside of work was essential to his well-being. He found that the "gifted kid" track often conditions people to ignore their own needs in favor of high expectations, but he was never able to shake the feeling that something was internally off.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/248

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If you find yourself doing this, you are "lawyering yourself". You are taking an idea and prematurely deciding it is impossible before you have actually spent any time looking into it. You start worrying about finances, your perceived lack of skills, or what other people might think. Essentially, you are shutting down the process before it even begins.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/235

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Lilly Ghahremani knew on day one of law school that it wasn't the right fit. She called her mom from a pay phone and said she'd made a mistake. Her mom convinced her to finish the semester, then the year, then the whole degree. Lilly graduated from UCLA Law in 2002 and stumbled into a job with a small practitioner who worked in publishing. That random job listing became the foundation for a 20-plus year career as a literary agent.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/250

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But the problem wasn't the type of law he practiced—it was that litigation fundamentally contradicted his core values of authenticity and meaningful connection. 

In this conversation, David shares the moment he realized he needed to leave law entirely, how a single question from a career coach clarified his path forward, and what it was really like to go back to grad school to become a therapist. He also explains why understanding your values is critical for career satisfaction and how acting against those values can lead to anxiety, depression, and declining self-esteem.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/246

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That appeal is also the problem. When you rely on just one assessment, it's easy to treat the results as the definitive answer. You think, "This is who I am. Now I need to find the career that matches." That kind of tunnel vision is exactly why Sarah uses multiple assessments with clients.

Every assessment is a tool. It can be valuable and provide insight. But being useful and being something you should govern your career decisions on are two different things. Using multiple assessments means you can see patterns and themes that are more reliable than any single result.

Assessments Sarah Uses:

Values in Action (VIA) 

Chestnut Paes Sullivan (CPS) Enneagram Compass

Gallup CliftonStrengths Assessment (formerly StrengthsFinder)

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/295

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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2025 was a difficult year. If you're already in an overwhelming job, everything else happening in the world makes it even harder to think clearly about your career.

But even in difficult years, lawyers leave the legal profession and find work they actually want to do. Even when things are rough, it's still possible.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/294

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Because there are actually two very different kinds.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/239

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Let her be clear. She's not here to convince anyone to leave the law.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/251

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This is going to be the most unsurprising recommendation, but one of the things that's really important for lawyers who are going through the process of figuring out what they want to do that isn't practicing law is therapy.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/293

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The legal profession can be deeply isolating, especially for people who are unhappy. In a field focused on prestige, lawyers often feel like they have to maintain a professional persona just to be taken seriously. It becomes hard to admit that the work doesn't fit, even to yourself. Lawyers who want out often believe they're the only ones who feel that way. They look around at colleagues who seem fine and wonder what's wrong with them for struggling.

In this episode Sarah shares why finding even just one or two other people also going through this process can make leaving the law so much easier. 

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/292

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But imagining you'd like to leave is not the same thing as deciding that you want to. That shift sounds simple, but it's tied up in identity, prestige, sunk costs, and everything you've been taught about what it means to be successful. It's the first real hurdle for a lot of lawyers, and one that's easy to avoid.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/291

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That’s how the sunk cost trap works. It convinces smart people that the only respectable choice is to stick with a decision that’s hurting them. It tells you that if you bail now, everything you put into becoming a lawyer disappears.

If you’re stuck in the “I can’t throw this away” spiral and need help figuring out your next step you need to listen to this. 

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/249

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The problem came later, once Zi was actually practicing. The culture inside the firm didn’t match what was promised. “Bring your whole self to work” sounds supportive until you realize it only applies if your whole self fits the mold. Zi found herself performing a version of “acceptable lawyer,” constantly adjusting how she acted, talked, socialized, even reacted. When your value comes from churning out work and avoiding the wrong reactions, there’s no space to be a person. There’s only survival.

In this episode Zi Lin joins Sarah to talk about her experience leaving Biglaw and what she's doing now.

Website & Portfolio

Zori Nori Instagram (@zori_nori)

Personal Art Instagram (@garbage_collector_s)

Linktree (for all other links, shops, etc.)

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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See show notes at formerlawyer.com/289

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Sarah hears from people who have only been in practice a few years and are already exhausted, overwhelmed, or checked out. They feel embarrassed or confused because they can point to colleagues who have been doing it longer. But measuring burnout by the calendar misses the reality of how it develops—especially for high-achieving perfectionists who have been pushing themselves for years before they ever set foot in a law firm.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/288

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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The biggest mistake most lawyers make when they want to leave is assuming it will just happen on its own.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/287

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Sarah explains why this constant state of vigilance makes sense, why it’s not a personal failing, and what it means for lawyers trying to find relief from the pressure.

Anchored: How to Befriend Your Nervous System Using Polyvagal Theory by Deb Dana

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/286

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At first there’s quiet. The noise of practice fades, and breathing feels easier. Then comes the question no one expects. What now? For years the answer was always clear. Get through the case. Close the deal. Survive the week. Outside that system, there’s no obvious next step, only space that feels both exciting and uncertain.

Sarah describes the first year as less about reinvention and more about recovery. It’s about realizing how much the profession shaped your sense of worth and how long it takes to stop living like every moment has to be optimized.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/285

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In this episode, Sarah Cottrell breaks down how to recognize the outrage complacency cycle and what it takes to finally step out of it. 

Join Sarah for a free live masterclass on October 10, Five Simple Steps to Identify a Career You Actually Like.

Sign up at formerlawyer.com/masterclass.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/284

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In this episode, she shares how caring becomes a problem only when it outweighs your own needs, especially if you’re considering leaving the law. You’ll hear how to notice when you’ve given outside voices too much power, how to decide whose opinions really matter, and why therapy can help you find the right balance. If guilt or fear of judgment has been keeping you stuck, this conversation will help you put those concerns in perspective.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/283

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Reserve your seat to learn The Simple 5-Step Framework To Identify An Alternative Career (That You Actually Like!) on October 10th.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/241

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For many lawyers, this is the point where talk therapy hits a wall. You’ve intellectually processed the stress, but your body hasn’t caught up. That disconnect between what you know and how you feel isn’t a failure. It’s a signal.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/282

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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See show notes at formerlawyer.com/229

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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See show notes at formerlawyer.com/281

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It's tied to this idea that maybe being miserable at work is just what it means to be an adult with a job. Maybe every workplace is toxic. Maybe no one really likes what they do. You'll even hear people outside the law say things like "Well, no one likes their job."

There's something almost protective about believing this. If you don't believe it will be better elsewhere, it's easier to keep doing the thing you're doing, even if the thing that you're doing is painful and not great for your mental and physical and emotional well-being.

But after six years of interviewing former lawyers, I can tell you the grass really is greener.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/280

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If you listen to Sarah's episode about the no-asshole rule, you know that “has sharp elbows” generally means they're abusive. But somehow, despite the clear pattern of destruction in their wake, you're supposed to act like this is normal. Like maybe you'll be different.

This is not normal. This is nuts.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/279

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The reality is that you need to ask yourself two questions to know if now is the right time for YOU to leave the law.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/231

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This disturbing thought is surprisingly common among lawyers in toxic work environments. Sarah and returning guest Kelcey Baker dive into why so many lawyers fantasize about minor injuries as their only escape from work pressure, and why even vacation doesn't provide real relief.

If you've ever had thoughts like this, this episode will help you understand it's not your fault - it's your environment. 

Content warning: Discussion includes narcissistic abuse, self-harm, and suicidal ideation.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/236

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Nine months later, she was back out. 

In this episode, Tiffany shares what she learned during those nine months that changed everything about how she views success, plus how she's built a children's book publishing company focused on diverse representation while working full-time in employment consulting. 

If you've ever wondered whether the grass is really greener at a prestigious firm, this episode is for you.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/278

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Ben Chiriboga lived this exact experience. Today he's an executive at Nexl, a legal tech company, but his legal tech transition wasn't linear. Sarah recently talked with Ben about his journey from maritime litigation to legal tech leadership, and his story touches on so many themes that resonate with lawyers considering their own legal tech transition.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/277

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Sound familiar? Sarah gets emails about this all the time. Lawyers who've done all the career assessments, who have detailed information about themselves, but still feel completely stuck about their next career move.

If this is you, there are two possible reasons why you're still feeling unclear after taking career assessments.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/276

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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Sarah recently talked with Bryson Malcolm, a legal recruiter who has unique insight into how these changes are playing out. He owns Mosaic Search Partners, a recruitment firm that focuses on historically underrepresented attorneys in Biglaw. When firms started abandoning their diversity commitments, Bryson had a front-row seat to the consequences.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/275

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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In this episode, Sarah addresses why lawyer burnout is valid regardless of your relationship status or family situation. She explains how lawyers participate in "misery Olympics," comparing struggles instead of acknowledging that toxic work environments affect everyone's mental health. 

If you're a single or childless lawyer struggling with burnout, this episode will help you stop gaslighting yourself and start taking your mental health seriously.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/274

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In this episode, Sarah addresses the common misconception that partnership will solve the problems you hate about being a lawyer. She breaks down why so many lawyers who finally make partner realize they've made a terrible mistake, and explains the real reasons partnership decisions aren't actually merit-based.

If you're a senior associate considering the partnership track, this episode will help you ask the right questions before you commit to a process that might not give you what you think it will.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/273

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In this conversation, Dan shares how he went from corporate litigation to a more meaningful career in family law. We talk about the lies lawyers are told about prestige, the realities of mental health in the profession, and what it actually takes to build something better. 

Whether you’re thinking about leaving law or just changing how you practice it, Dan’s story is proof that you’re not trapped.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/272

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From the recent DEI rollbacks to everyday office dynamics, Sarah explains why cowardice thrives in Biglaw and how it impacts more than just the lawyers trapped inside these firms. If you’re feeling stuck in a toxic workplace or questioning whether it’s time to leave, this conversation will give you clarity—and your first steps toward getting out.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/271

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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She talks about the power judges hold, how law schools often ignore bad behavior, and why more information—not more prestige—is what law students really need. 

If you've ever wondered why the legal profession protects its own at the expense of young lawyers, this episode offers a candid look at what needs to change.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/270

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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In this episode, Sarah shares what she sees in these anonymous forums, why the advice often misses the mark, and how to recognize when toxic thinking is disguised as tough love.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/269.

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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She also talks about the importance of community when you’re making a big change, the real-life stories that keep inspiring her, and why it’s never too early to start exploring your options if you know law isn’t your forever career. If you’ve been sitting on the fence, this episode will give you a nudge and a whole lot of clarity.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/238

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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They break down how ADHD brains actually work, what interest-based motivation means, and how understanding your brain can help you build a career that works for you—not against you. 

Whether you're diagnosed, undiagnosed, or just curious, this conversation offers practical insight and validation for lawyers navigating ADHD at any stage.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/267

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If you’re tired of the gaslighting and performative change in legal spaces, this conversation will help you feel seen, and remind you that you’re not imagining the disconnect between what firms say and how they actually operate.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/266

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If you’ve been wondering whether it’s time for a change—or if you’re just trying to keep going during a hard season—Laura’s story will remind you that there’s no one “right” path forward, and going back to something familiar might just be the best next step. 

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/265

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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Whether you're thinking about leaving the law or just trying to get through the week, Sarah reminds us that surviving a hard season isn’t a failure—it’s a sign you’re human. If you’re struggling with what to prioritize, feeling stretched thin, or questioning your next steps, this episode is a grounding reminder that taking care of what’s essential is enough.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/264

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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See show notes at formerlawyer.com/263

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

In this episode of The Former Lawyer Podcast, Sarah Cottrell addresses what happens when you reach that breaking point. She explains why you don’t have to wait until you can leave your job to start making a change, and how taking small steps now can set you up for the future, whether you’re leaving in a few months or a few years.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/262

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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Ed’s path took a different route than Sarah’s, and he now works in the tech field after leaving law. Today's conversation explores the common interest of many lawyers Sarah speaks with to explore jobs in tech. If you’ve been curious about getting a tech job or want to learn more about Ed’s journey.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/261

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In this episode of The Former Lawyer Podcast, Sarah Cottrell breaks down the difference between something being simple but difficult versus complicated but easy, and how this applies to leaving the law. 

The truth is, figuring out what’s next isn’t complex, but doing the work to make a change is hard. That’s why she created The Former Lawyer Collab because even though the steps are clear, having support and guidance can make all the difference. 

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/260

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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Many lawyers aren’t just worried about logistics. They feel like they need approval. They worry about how their family, friends, or partner will react. They feel the need to justify their decision and have others validate that leaving is the right move.

But the only permission you need is your own.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/259

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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Amisha, now a congressional staffer, shares her winding journey through law school, legal aid, and government work—ultimately realizing that practicing law wasn’t the right fit. 

Her story highlights the struggle many lawyers face, the pressure to stay in the profession despite clear signs it isn’t working. Through The Former Lawyer Collab, Amisha found the clarity and support she needed to make the leap into a fulfilling new career.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/258

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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On this episode of The Former Lawyer Podcast, host Sarah Cottrell addresses this exact challenge, breaking down the key steps for making the transition while avoiding the pressure to return to legal practice.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/257

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Sarah also shares an update on Former Lawyer’s commitment to donating 1% of its gross revenue to the Equal Justice Initiative (EJI) and an additional 1% to the ACLU. If you'd like to support these organizations, you can find more information here:

Equal Justice Initiative (EJI)
ACLU

Learn more about the Former Lawyer Collab: formerlawyer.com/collab

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

Sarah also shares an update on Former Lawyer’s commitment to donating 1% of its gross revenue to the Equal Justice Initiative (EJI) and an additional 1% to the ACLU. If you'd like to support these organizations, you can find more information here:

Equal Justice Initiative (EJI)
ACLU

Learn more about the Former Lawyer Collab: formerlawyer.com/collab

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

Sarah also shares an update about Former Lawyer’s commitment to donating 1% of its gross revenue to the Equal Justice Initiative (EJI) and, moving forward, an additional 1% to the ACLU. 

If you'd like to join in supporting these organizations, you can find more information on their sites.

Equal Justice Initiative (EJI)
ACLU

Learn more about the Former Lawyer Collab: formerlawyer.com/collab

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

Sarah shares personal insights, client stories, and some hard questions to help you rethink whether the life you’re chasing actually aligns with your values. She also dives into how therapy can play a game-changing role in breaking free from the “success trap” and building a life that works for you.

If you’ve ever found yourself feeling trapped by career expectations or the idea that you’re supposed to suffer to succeed, this episode is for you. You don’t have to settle for burnout—there’s a way forward.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/256

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

Whether you’re unsure about your next step or ready to make a move, this conversation offers actionable insights to help you get started on your path to a more fulfilling future. Tune in to learn why values are the foundation of Sarah’s framework for lawyers ready to leave the law behind.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/253

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

If you’ve ever felt trapped in an environment where taking a real break feels impossible, this conversation will resonate deeply and offer hope. Tune in to hear more about why these feelings arise, how they can be addressed, and the importance of prioritizing your well-being.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/236

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

In the United States, you are entitled to certain accommodations legally for disorders covered under the ADA. But a real challenge is deciding whether or not you will disclose your ADHD, anxiety, or depression to HR at your workplace. It can feel really daunting to think about disclosing something like this at work. 

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/205

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

A fundamental belief that Sarah has is that people are the experts on their own experience. She is not trying to convince anyone of anything. There are moments when she gets especially fired up about some of the problematic parts of the legal profession, but she is just sharing her experiences and allowing a place for others to do the same. This podcast was created for lawyers to hear someone talking about something they recognize.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/251

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

In this episode, Lilly shares how her legal background helped her thrive in a nontraditional career and why so many lawyers are drawn to publishing. She talks about the realities of life as a literary agent, the skills that truly transfer from legal practice, and how lawyers can tap into their creative passions. Whether you’re dreaming of leaving law or simply curious about the publishing world, Lilly’s story will inspire you to explore new possibilities.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/250

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

Download Sarah’s free guide, First Steps to Leaving the Law, at formerlawyer.com/first.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/249

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

For those who feel trapped in a cycle of self-doubt, Sarah shares insights into how leaving a toxic legal environment can help you reconnect with your strengths and reclaim your confidence. If you're questioning whether it's time to move on, this episode is a must-listen.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/247

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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Throughout their conversation, David discusses the challenges he faced as a lawyer, the sense of unfulfillment that led him to leave litigation, and the importance of living in alignment with one's values. This episode provides an honest look at what it takes to make a significant career shift, making it a must-listen for any lawyer feeling stuck and seeking a new path.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/246

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

Drawing on her experiences working with lawyers in her Collab program, Sarah highlights the importance of giving yourself time and space to recover from burnout.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/243

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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Whether you’re a law firm owner thinking about your long-term exit strategy or simply curious about what goes into selling a legal practice, this episode is packed with actionable advice. Learn how to position your firm for sale, maximize its value, and set yourself up for a successful transition beyond the law.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/242

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

Clearly, there are many people who have worked in similar workplaces because this episode is one of the most downloaded episodes. Again, it's one of the ones I hear about the most from people because there is so much agreement with the fact that the no-asshole rule is, in fact, a myth. Here are my thoughts about the no-asshole rule.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/139

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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See show notes at formerlawyer.com/93

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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It is one of the most downloaded. It comes up all the time. I hear all the time from people who have sent it to friends and coworkers because apparently there are a lot of us who need to be reminded that your job should not make you cry. If that doesn't tell you something about our profession, I don't know what will. Here is the next episode in our summer re-release series, Your Job Should Not Make You Cry.

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

This series gets mentioned to me very frequently when people reach out to me. So I wanted to bring it back and highlight it. 

In each episode, you are going to hear a number of people who are answering the same question. In this episode, the question that people will be answering is, “What is one thing that you resisted doing in this process of figuring out what it is that they wanted to do that isn't practicing law, that they wish they had done sooner?”

Listen to the rest of the Collab Member Series

Former Lawyers Share an Obvious Thing that was Transformative 

Myths Former Lawyers Believed Before Leaving the Law 

What Has Been the Biggest Surprise for Former Lawyers in the Collab? 

What Would Former Lawyer Collab Members Tell Themselves Five Years Ago 

Why These Former Lawyers Decided to Join the Guided Track 

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

In this episode that you're about to listen to, I talked a bit about what the characteristics even are of narcissism and in particular, malignant narcissism, and how to identify it.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/127

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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I think it's critical to remember, as I talk about in this episode, especially if you are not wanting to be in a law firm long term, that not fitting in is actually a good thing. 

Let's get into this episode, which is one of the most popular episodes of the podcast.

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

This first episode that we're releasing the series is the first of a previous series that we did, which was based on the book Bullshit Jobs. This is a series that I did with Annie Little, one of my good friends, who's also a former lawyer and a career coach.

Complete Bullshit Jobs Series 

Is Being A Lawyer A Bullshit Job? 

The Misery of Ambiguity and Forced Pretense in Law Firms 

The Artificial Power Structure and Feeling Helpless as a Lawyer with Annie Little 

The Misery of Not Feeling Entitled to One’s Misery as a Lawyer 

The Misery of Knowing That One Is Doing Harm as a Lawyer 

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/239

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

Lawyers get stuck trying to figure out things on the front end, like reworking resumes or convincing someone they can work in a role other than a lawyer. People get stuck in the process of the practical things that get you a new job. This is the part that many assume will be the most challenging.  

However, Sarah has found that the hardest thing about leaving the law is the emotional part.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/237

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

Lawyers are just trained to do this, and it’s important that you recognize that ahead of time.

Stop telling yourself that something isn’t going to work before you’ve actually spent any time looking into it. People start worrying about finances and skills they don’t think they have, and begin convincing themselves that it’s a bad idea.

Sarah calls this “Lawyering yourself.” You take an idea and then prematurely decide it’s impossible. 

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/235

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

Andre shares his career path and how he got to where he is today. It’s interesting to see how interested he’s always been in real estate and how that’s helped him transition between multiple roles. 

Let’s dive into Andre’s story and advice.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/234

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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So many of the people Sarah speaks to face this challenge. They might travel somewhere new but feel like they are expected to remain connected and available to people at work. She knew there were partners senior to her who would go on vacation but still work six hours. If you love working on vacation, that’s great, but for most people, that’s not the case.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/233

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

They discuss the differences between Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and share their experiences and observations.

If you have been thinking about seeking out a therapist or have experienced this process, this conversation will be helpful.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/232

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

The reality is that you need to ask yourself two questions to know if now is the right time for YOU to leave the law.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/231

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

They discuss mental health issues and suicide. The story is important because it highlights some of the issues seen within the legal profession and helps others feel seen, so let’s dive in.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/230

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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Sarah reminds listeners that nothing about your job is as important as you and your emotional, mental, and physical health. For lawyers, it’s easy to feel their value as human beings is basically in job performance. 

It’s tough for lawyers to feel like they exist outside the lawyer bubble. Working a lot and being chronically sleep-deprived keeps your nervous system in a state that makes it hard to maintain perspective.

The systems are designed to cause you to lose perspective, especially in large firms. The system benefits when you are all caught up in your own performance for the organization.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/229

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

Today’s podcast episode features a conversation with Jordan Nahmias. Jordan used to practice law as an entertainment lawyer and is now a coach and strategist in Toronto, Canada. He talks about his experience and his path out of law. Many people consider exploring this area when thinking about leaving the law.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/228

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

Layoffs and challenging circumstances can add an added layer of stress and concern when it comes to changing industries and leaving your job. Sarah shares some thoughts and advice about these concerns and questions. 

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/227

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

She has had a lot of experience working for regional and international law firms throughout her career. She hit a rough patch and thought it was time for a chance, so she started working with Sarah.

Today, she’s sharing her experience in law and how she flipped things around.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/226

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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Sarah often talks about therapy on the podcast. It is extremely helpful if you feel burned out or depressed. Engage a qualified mental health therapist to work with. They can help you evaluate what’s going on in your mind in your life with some objectivity and clinical expertise. 

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/225

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/224

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

The discussion centered around a common yet often unspoken experience of guilt when one doesn’t enjoy being a lawyer. This feeling of guilt can be pervasive, making one feel like they’re complaining, even when they perceive their situation to be better than others. Sarah has talked about this before on the podcast, so obviously, it’s a topic that comes up often and is important to re-address.

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

She is chatting with Sarah about her experience leaving the law and the subject of chronic illnesses. 

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/222

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

When you feel like you’re having an existential crisis, it might feel like you’re in a vacuum. If you want to join a group of like-minded individuals, join the Collab. Sarah created this group to make it easier to navigate the process and find community. It doesn’t mean you won’t still feel lost, but you’ll have others that understand what you’re going through. 

It’s normal to feel like you’re having an existential crisis when working through the process of leaving the law. You are not doing anything wrong, and you aren’t alone. Keep going and seek out some people to talk to.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/221

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

In addition, she has a coaching business on the side where she helps lawyers with personal productivity, which helps them create time and space for themselves. 

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/182

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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She co-founded this project based on a nightmare clerkship scenario she faced and wanted to help lawyers find recourse if they find themselves in this situation. 

She is sharing where things are today and the initiatives they’ve made progress on in the last year.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/219

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

If you are considering marketing as an option after leaving the law, this podcast has some great information for you.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/218

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

This episode includes a conversation about those who have grown up in a narcissistic daily or had a romantic or platonic relationship with a narcissist and how that might set them up for a later experience of functioning in a narcissistic system, like a law firm.

Narcissism plays a big role in the legal profession. Many individuals with narcissistic traits are drawn to the law and the legal system. This podcast has covered topics similar to this one in the past, like the episode about the signs of malignant narcissism in the legal profession and how to handle bullying in law firms. This pair has also worked together on an episode where you can hear more of Kelcey’s experience.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/217

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/216

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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Sarah shared more about her background and how this advice applied to her life and has brought the topic to the podcast to share more with the listeners. Let’s dive in.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/215

Enrollment for the next Guided Track is open now. Learn more and reserve your spot.

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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This area of law has its own challenges and can be very hard to walk away from. Strawberry spent about 15 years in and around the legal field, including three years as a practicing lawyer, so let’s dive in and learn more about their journey.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/214

Enrollment for the next Guided Track is open now. Learn more and reserve your spot.

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

He finished law school about two and a half years ago but was already having doubts about his future in law.

Hear his story and how the Collab helped him discover other options. 

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/213

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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Plus, you get to hear from a client who has gone through these conversations and hear some first-hand experience and advice about navigating legal burnout.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/212

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

In today’s episode, Sarah is back again with Annie Little discussing the book Bullshit Jobs by David Graeber. It’s part of a series of podcast discussions diving into the miseries of a bullshit job. Today, it’s time to dive into the fourth and final misery that comes with bullshit jobs, knowing that one is doing harm as a lawyer. Go back and catch up if you missed the first three in this series.

The final misery covered in the book is the misery based on knowing that one is doing harm. The most obvious example of this as lawyers would be representing a person or entity, and they are asking you to do something that is itself harmful. While these situations may arise, people tend to be aware and can deal with the moral conflict. 

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

In today’s episode, Sarah is back again with Annie Little discussing the book Bullshit Jobs by David Graeber. It’s part of a series of podcast discussions diving into the miseries of a bullshit job, and today, it’s time to dive into the third misery that comes with bullshit jobs. The Misery of not feeling entitled to your misery as a lawyer.

If you missed the first two, go back and catch up.

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

Last week’s discussion was all about the first reason—ambiguity and forced pretense—catch up on that one first. 

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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When it comes to ambiguity in law firms, the lack of transparency is the first thing that comes to mind for Annie. She points out that there should be a simple, straightforward path with clear instructions on each assignment and an obvious ladder to climb within the firm. In reality, there are so many hidden things that lawyers are left to just figure out on their own. 

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

In this series, the two of them discuss the book Bullshit Jobs: A Theory by David Graeber and dive into some of the book’s observations. This first episode covers why you should care about this book and answer, “Is being a lawyer a bullshit job?”

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

Heather’s new career as a professional organizer is something that many listeners have messaged Sarah about, so they chat about her journey to become a lawyer and what led to her transition to a professional organizer.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/211

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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It’s a big decision, but it’s also really important to think about what has led you to this moment and think about what you’ll gain. 

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/210

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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Only people who decide to become lawyers have this internal narrative that they are “lazy” if they don’t continue down this path. There’s an assumption that laziness is the reason, but that’s not the case.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/209

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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There’s not really a definitive answer to this question. It’s interesting how much this concern is raised, and that fact in itself says a lot about the profession and its effect on people. It comes up in the Collab program and conversations with clients at all stages of their careers. If this is something that you’re asking, you are not alone.

Learn more about Collab Plus

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/208

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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Annie has worked with many lawyers and spent time in the legal industry. Both Annie and Sarah have plenty of personal experience with law firms and how they handle the disclosure of different needs of their lawyers. This episode explores how a law firm deals with lawyers who have shared an ADHD diagnosis.

Learn more about the Collab Plus

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/207

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

 The podcast revealed some compelling insights about ADHD in the legal profession and debunked misconceptions. If you're a lawyer contemplating a career change, this blog post is for you. We'll break down the essential points from the podcast and explore the real challenges lawyers with ADHD face, shedding light on why they may be considering leaving the law.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/206

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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Last week, Lauren Ascher was on the podcast to discuss accommodations for lawyers with ADHD. It’s a good segway into an important conversation about disclosing ADHD and other mental health issues to your law firm. It’s no secret that there is a high incidence rate among lawyers for anxiety, depression, panic disorders, and other issues. 

In the United States, you are entitled to certain accommodations legally for disorders covered under the ADA. But a real challenge is deciding whether or not you will disclose your ADHD, anxiety, or depression to HR at your workplace. It can feel really daunting to think about disclosing something like this at work. 

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/205

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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Lauren is a former lawyer. She graduated from Columbia Law School in 2011. Making a career change coincided with her ADHD diagnosis, which came about ten years into her legal career. Since then, she’s become an ADHD coach and is getting her master’s in mental health counseling. It’s valuable to have an actual background in law and to understand ADHD. She’s able to help people and give them hope and strategies to cope. 

There is a much higher percentage of people who are lawyers who have ADHD than the general population. Many people listen to this podcast who have ADHD or suspect that they may have ADHD, so let’s dive in.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/204

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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This isn’t true for everyone, but there are a ton of lawyers out there who works so hard to make partner and then ask themselves, “What have I done?” If you are one of those people or you feel like you’re on that path, this is for you.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/203

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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After years of conversations with lawyers (and former lawyers) Sarah has discovered how common this feeling is. Not fitting in is actually a good thing, and Sarah will explain why.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/202

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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Her story follows a unique path than many lawyers who decided to go to law school, and it provides a fascinating perspective on what it's like to step away from law into advocacy work.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/201

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Other Episodes Mentioned:

Lawyers, Your Job Should Not Make You Cry

The “No Assholes Rule” (And Why It’s A Joke)

Is Being A Lawyer A Bullshit Job?

Burnout In Lawyers with Ilona Salmons

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/200

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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The conversation is extremely helpful because she shares the importance of taking action and making a plan while moving gradually through the process. There are always some good takeaways from listening to someone else’s stories.

Let’s get to know Romy and learn about her story.

Learn more about The Guided Track

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/199

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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The CliftonStrengths Workshop is part of the Guided Track experience. Vanessa Kuljis (a previous guest on the podcast) comes in and does the workshop with the group. It’s an incredibly powerful tool and is often overlooked on the sales page for the Guided Track. CliftonStrengths is a strengths assessment that looks for 34 different talent themes that, when cultivated, turn into strengths. Each person has a different order of these various strengths. The top five are the most significant.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/198

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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Sarah offers three different programs, each building off the base of the Collaborative and providing a different level of accountability and follow-up depending on your needs. 

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/197

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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This episode focuses on the Guided Track. This is a small group program within the Collab. The group of eight lawyers max meets for ten weeks and works through an action plan that follows the Former Lawyer Framework. In addition, there are some other tools included, like CliftonStrength workshops.

These clients share their experiences and why they think someone should join. The Guided Track happens twice a year, in the spring and in the fall.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/196

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

Today's question is: what’s something you've learned that you wish you could go back and tell the you of five years ago?

Sarah is sharing these responses and talking about how common it is to feel this way. You are not alone if you are struggling in your law career, and it’s possible that you wish you could give the you of five years ago some information as well.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/195

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

Today’s question is: What is the biggest surprise you have experienced thus far in following The Former Lawyer Framework as a Collab member? These members are working to figure out if they want to stay in law or do something different.

Each of the five respondents had something different that surprised them, so you’ll see each of the answers. It’s an interesting way to learn more about the program and what it’s helped members discover about themselves and their career paths.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/194

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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Today’s question is: What’s one thing that you thought was true that you’ve realized is not true?

Each of the five respondents shares a myth that they believed was true, and how it held them back from making career decisions. With more clarity upon completion of the Guided Track, each of these respondents could reassess their careers.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/193

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

Today's question: What is one thing that felt obvious or elementary that was really transformative for you?

Sarah reminds listeners that sometimes you need that additional support to really recognize when something will make a big difference for you, even if it feels obvious.

On today’s podcast episode, Sarah is sharing more feedback directly from Collab Members as part of the summer series. Each series episode asks the same question to multiple members so listeners can learn more about their experiences. Each person is answering this question today: What is one thing that felt obvious or elementary that was really transformative for you?

Sarah reminds listeners that sometimes you need that additional support to really recognize when something will make a big difference for you, even if it feels obvious.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/192

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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Each of the clients answering this question is part of the Collab. This is a self-paced program where you get access to The Former Lawyer Framework, the curriculum that helps people figure out what they want to do outside of the law. Collab members are also given access to the Circle community, which is a group of people who can relate to the struggles of leaving the law.

The question kicking this off is: What is one thing that you resisted doing in this process of figuring out what you want to do that isn’t practicing law that you wish you had done sooner?

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/191

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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In today’s episode, Sarah is back again with Annie Little discussing the book Bullshit Jobs by David Graeber. It’s part of a series of podcast discussions diving into the miseries of a bullshit job. Today, it’s time to dive into the fourth and final misery that comes with bullshit jobs. Go back and catch up if you missed the first three in this series.

The final misery covered in the book is the misery based on knowing that one is doing harm. The most obvious example of this as lawyers would be representing a person or entity, and they are asking you to do something that is itself harmful. While these situations may arise, people tend to be aware and can deal with the moral conflict. 

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/190

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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It’s part of a series of podcast discussions diving into the miseries of a bullshit job, and today, it’s time to dive into the third misery that comes with bullshit jobs. If you missed the first two, go back and catch up.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/189

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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Last week’s discussion was all about the first reason—ambiguity and forced pretense—catch up on that one first. Then, let’s dive into the second reason.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/188

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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When it comes to ambiguity in law firms, the lack of transparency is the first thing that comes to mind for Annie. She points out that there should be a simple, straightforward path with clear instructions on each assignment and an obvious ladder to climb within the firm. In reality, there are so many hidden things that lawyers are left to just figure out on their own.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/187

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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In this new series, the two of them discuss the book Bullshit Jobs: A Theory by David Graeber and dive into some of the book's observations. This first episode covers why you should care about this book and answer, “Is being a lawyer a bullshit job?”

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/186

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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Andrew shares his journey from law school and deciding to leave the law for the career happiness he's found today.

It was interesting to hear many of the previous podcast themes come up in the conversation, so let’s dive in and learn more about Andrew’s story.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/185

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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This comes up often in Sarah’s conversations with former lawyers and people who are still currently working in law, so today, she’s diving in a bit deeper.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/184

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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During those years, she figured out how she wanted to spend her days and helps people today figure out how to create a career and life that resonates with them. 

The conversation centers around self-compassion and using curiosity to help determine the best path. 

Let’s dive in.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/183

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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Sarah spent a decade moving through different sections of the law, plus the recent work on Former Lawyer with many stories from other current and former lawyers. If anyone is going through this situation, it’s horrible and confusing. It’s hard even to understand what is happening at the moment. 

Much of the abuse involves lawyers being told their work isn’t good enough, but not in a constructive criticism way. There’s a difference between giving someone feedback in a way that they can take it and it can be useful, and then there is just being a jerk. Managing people requires skills, especially when it comes to giving feedback.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/182

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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Sarah discovered Jayci after reading one of her books where the main character is a lawyer. One former lawyer instantly recognized another, and she knew Jayci would be a great podcast guest. 

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/181

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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Sarah’s husband, Ed Cottrell, posted a reaction to that on LinkedIn and shared his experiences in the last year since he left law. 

In this episode, Sarah chats more with Ed about his experience with hypervigilance and leaving the law.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/180

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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The conversation covers the different paths she took after leaving the law (her patchwork career to put it in Dina's words). Plus, she dives into exactly what she does for work now as an organizational ombuds. It’s a great conversation for any former lawyers considering HR roles and anyone looking to learn more about what’s out there.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/179

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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We'll discuss what stealth layoffs are, why it's ok to have mixed feelings, and how to move forward.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/178

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Law school was never an option that Ruth felt drawn to, but with pressures from her parents, she earned her degree. Her career path has woven in and out of law a bit, but she’s now a successful voiceover actor.

Learn more about her journey and advice to anyone looking to make a similar shift.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/177

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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They chatted about the importance of listening to the signs, how to take the first steps, and some of the common challenges lawyers have in taking a mental health break.

If you missed last week's episode, make sure to listen to learn more about Megan’s story of leaving law and turning to the mental health field. 

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/176

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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Megan is another former lawyer who returned to school to get into the mental health space to join the series featuring lawyers who have transitioned into this industry.

Megan shares some great advice and gives listeners her story about discovering that being a lawyer wasn’t for her anymore and how she made the transition. 

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/175

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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After ten years as a lawyer, Lauren is back in school, getting her master’s in mental health counseling. She is also working as an ADHD executive function coach.

After our episode with Annie Little a few months ago, many listeners have reached out about undiagnosed ADHD, so read along and listen to the podcast to learn about Lauren’s experience as a former lawyer.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/174

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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They talk about the challenges of deciding to go back to school, why therapy felt like the best fit for Yael, and what advice she has for any current lawyers debating making a big change in their life. 

Connect with Yael Eiserke

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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Sarah and Karen talk about what factors led to her making the career switch, and what advice she has for others who might be considered the same.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/167

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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There aren’t therapists for lawyers specifically, but there are a few tools you can utilize to help you find someone that works best for you. Sarah has been very open about how therapy has helped her and wants to share her advice to help other lawyers find therapists so they can enjoy the same benefits.

5 Tips to Find Therapists for Lawyers

Let’s dive into the top five tips for finding a lawyer therapist and how to start your journey today.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/171

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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It’s a fascinating conversation that focuses on the idea that your job is not your identity and how lawyers can use their strengths to find a fulfilling career path. Let’s jump in!

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/170

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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Before then, he had done a detour and bagged a MFA degree in California, right out of law school. Now, Cary works as the head of legal marketing at a law firm in the Midwest. 

His story is proof that taking a detour as a lawyer is not necessarily a death knell like most people believe. When you follow your heart and ditch the soul-sucking legal practice, you can live the life of your dreams. 

You can start by arming yourself with the necessary information that you need on your journey. This is what the Guided Track with Sarah offers. The Guided Track gives you access to resources on how to leave the law and a community of former lawyers and aspiring former lawyers like you who are ready to walk the journey with you.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/169

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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As you know, my podcast and membership, the Collaborative, is all about helping lawyers who feel they want to leave the law determine what they want to do instead, and how to do it. 

Usually, I share the stories of guests who have left the law already or want to leave the law, they are other “former lawyers” who are ready to share their stories. Now, we’re kicking off a new series of episodes where I am going to be interviewing some of my clients who are in the Collaborative. 

The Collaborative is confidential, so we are calling today’s guest “Anon” to protect her anonymity, but she’s been gracious enough to share her experiences with us to help dispel those misconceptions about the process of making a career change and how the Collaborative is facilitating her transition.

Learn more about The Guided Track - formerlawyer.com/guidedtrack

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/098

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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This episode is a follow-up to Sarah’s previous conversation with Jamie Spannhake. Jamie is a Former Lawyer Collaborative member who left the law in October 2021 after 17 years of practice.

In this episode, Jamie talks about what she's done over the last 12 months since leaving the law and some of the lessons that she has continued to learn. If you want to experience the same thing, Sarah will start a new round of the Guided Track in February to help you figure out what you want to do outside the law. 

When you join the Guided Track, you get access to everything in the Collab, including the community, weekly calls, and an action plan that guides you through the Former Lawyer Framework. This cohort will only take six lawyers, secure your spot now. Enrollment closes on February 17, and the course starts on the 20th. 

Now, let’s get into the conversation with Jamie!

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/167

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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Marquel discusses her experiences before and after joining The Collaborative. In this episode, you will see what being in The Collaborative looks like and how the support can help you leave the law by identifying an alternative career that is a great fit for you. 

If you would love to have the same experience as Marquel Stuedemann, you can join the next Guided Track cohort that starts in February. The Guided Track is a ten-week support program that gives you access to all the resources in The Collaborative, including weekly support calls with five other lawyers that get into the program. You also get a 30-minute one-on-one call with Sarah Cottrell, which you can use during the ten weeks. 

Now, let’s get into the conversation with Marquel.

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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People who listen to the new series will hear the inspiring stories of former lawyers who quit their soul-sucking jobs by following Sarah's tried-and-true advice and strategies. These former lawyers are now in careers they love and are enjoying the life they now live to the fullest!

Learn more about The Guided Track.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/165

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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Loly Orozco is a former financial restructuring lawyer who went from Biglaw to running a creative business. Her stationery design company, Little Postage House, sells curated vintage postage stamps and designs and prints all types of paper items from birth announcements to wedding invitations to save the dates. 

On this episode of the podcast, Loly shares how she took something that she loved, creating art, and ultimately determined that making it a business was a great fit for her.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/086

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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In the first half of the conversation, Sarah talked about her journey through the legal track and into a Biglaw firm. She also spoke about seeking therapy and being pregnant while practicing law. 

In the final part of this conversation, you’ll read about her journey out of the law and into the art world. You’ll also learn a bit about the concept of “following your passion” and how Sarah (Cottrell) helps lawyers to leave the law. 

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/039

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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This week, I’m sharing my conversation with Dr. Jan Newman. Jan moved from Biglaw associate to clinical psychologist and executive coach who works with multi-passionate high achievers who want to level up their lives. 

She is a published author, researcher, and frequent speaker on emotional intelligence, interpersonal effectiveness, and psychological flexibility. In her former life, she was a practicing lawyer.

This is an incredible conversation with some amazing takeaways about finding a different career path.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/037

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

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In this conversation, Janelle talks to Sarah about being bored in the legal profession and building a side hustle as a lawyer. She talked about how some harmful lies told in the legal field hurt people and make lawyers feel bad about themselves.

You should listen to this conversation to learn how to create lives of autonomy, happiness, freedom, and wealth.

Let's dive in!

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/077

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

The new series will help unhappy lawyers who are hesitant to quit their soul-sucking jobs for fear of what comes next or because of uncertainty see that quitting to follow their passion makes things better than before. 

Why the After Series is Important

Sarah notes that a common trait among her clients, especially those in Biglaw, is disbelief that things could get better than they currently are in their job. Those working in Biglaw firms can attest that a lot of emotional and mental manipulation happens in these firms. 

The incredibly toxic environment makes it hard to believe that doing something outside the law will help these lawyers feel better or enjoy a better life. These lawyers constantly wonder if things are better on the other side of the law. 

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/164

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

In this conversation, Sarah talks to Greg about the approach he used to move into a job that many lawyers are potentially thinking about without fully returning to school. You should listen to this if you want to start a fulfilling career in the tech industry.

You will learn the exact process Greg used to get his dream job and how taking the risk to trust his instinct brought him to where he is right now. Let’s get right in!

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/164

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

Here, you will learn how to overcome the fear of failing and how joining the Former Lawyer Collaborative can help you to ditch regret and fear.

Let’s get into it!

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/162

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

That certainly doesn’t mean that all coaching is a scam. However, many people who present themselves as coaches are not legit. They engage in questionable practices and frankly do not have the best interests of their clients in mind.

In this article, a certified coach and coaching program creator, you’ll learn how you can avoid coaching scams to save time and money for something you’ll get value from. Let’s get right into it. 

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/161

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

Toxic workplaces trigger all sorts of responses from the nervous systems that make it almost impossible to do the inner work needed to gain clarity, whether it’s on a post-legal career or just another sector of law. 

Keep reading to learn how your toxic work environment makes it harder for you to figure out what you want to do after leaving the law.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/160

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

When she eventually left, she didn’t have a plan, but she did still have the passion to make a change for the environment. Now, she works as an environmental planner, still in the environmental space but doing slightly different types of work than before she left the law. 

In their conversation, Sarah and Laura talked a lot about how that happened, she had a panic attack on a Friday, and by Monday, handed in her notice. And, they talked about why that worked out so well for her. Let’s get into the conversation.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/159

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

This is by far the most popular episode that has been released on The Former Lawyer Podcast. The title is ‘Your Job Should Not Make You Cry’. 

In this article, you’ll talk a little bit more about why that is true and what it means for you if this is your experience working in the law. So, let’s get started!

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/042

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

Today, you’re going to learn why that couldn’t be further from the truth and how the Former Lawyer Collaborative can help any lawyers who are struggling with that fear. 

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/158

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

In this conversation, you’ll learn about Heather’s career in Biglaw and how she discovered coaching. You’ll also get to read how a huge life event and her values helped her make the career shift. 

This is an amazing read for anyone constantly battling with their values and career in the law. 

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/157

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

Now, that may sound sad, but don't worry. This article won’t be super heavy. But it’s something we need to speak about because grieving your career is something that isn’t that’s taught or really even discussed. 

Career grief is unfortunately extremely stigmatized because it’s not how grief is typically known. But career grief can rear its ugly head, even if you want to leave the law and are happy about it. You can learn more about recovering from grief by checking out Stigma Free Grief For Lawyers With Heather Horton. But for now, keep reading to learn more about grieving your legal career.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/156

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

Today she's joining Sarah Cottrell to share her story of leaving Biglaw to become an author and writing coach.

There are so many lawyers out there with dreams of being a writer, but they don’t know how or where to begin. If that’s you, you’ll want to stay tuned to learn how you can get help leaving the law and becoming an author too. 

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/154

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

There are so many things that are problematic about this advice, especially for lawyers. Keep reading to learn more about why “do what you love” is garbage advice for lawyers.

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/154

I'm closing enrollment for my self-paced group program, the Former Lawyer Collaborative, permanently on August 31st, 2026. If you've been thinking about joining now is the time. 

Head to formerlawyer.com/collab to join before doors close on August 31st.

If you've been thinking about investing in a coaching program for lawyers or even working with a career coach, then today’s blog post will be helpful. 

Today I am talking about what to expect in the Guided Track, my upcoming group coaching program for lawyers who want to leave the legal profession and pursue an alternative career.

Learn more about The Guided Track at formerlawyer.com/guidedtrack

See show notes at formerlawyer.com/153