Diary of a Barrister - The Lawyer Diaries

Chelsea Brooke-Ward (Employment Barrister)
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"The Diary of Barrister - The Lawyer Diaries" with your host Chelsea Brooke-Ward Welcome to “The Diary of a Barrister – The Lawyer Diaries”, your weekly dose of candid conversations, career advice, and insider insights on all things law, hosted by Chelsea Brooke-Ward. Chelsea is an award-winning Employment Barrister at Park Square Barristers, one of the largest sets in the North East, and she’s here to demystify the legal world for those determined to break into it — and thrive. Each episode, Chelsea shares her journey from a non-traditional, non-legal background to building a successful career at the Bar. Expect raw, honest, and inspiring episodes as she opens up about the challenges she faced, the lessons she learned, and what it really takes to stand out in this competitive profession. Along the way, Chelsea will be joined by a range of guests — from aspiring barristers and legal professionals to trailblazing role models — offering a 360° view of what life in law looks like, and the many paths to success. You’ll hear stories of setbacks, resilience, and breakthroughs, all packed with practical tips you can use right now. Whether you’re navigating pupillage applications, chasing scholarships, preparing for interviews, or already working in the legal field and striving to push boundaries — this is the podcast for you. It’s smart, empowering, and unfiltered. "The Diary of Barrister - The Lawyer Diaries" is your go-to resource for a weekly dose of knowledge, motivation, and practical advice. Whether you're a law student with big dreams , an aspiring lawyer seeking to break barriers, or lawyer wanting to smash glass ceilings this is your podcast,  your trusted companion on this remarkable journey into the legal world.Subscribe now and let Chelsea be your mentor in your ears — motivating, informing, and cheering you on every step of the way. Success in law begins with knowledge, and this podcast is your key to unlocking a bright future in the legal field. Sign up to the mailing list for the Pupillage Programme: https://mailchi.mp/483601e8219a/diary-of-a-pupil Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/diaryofa_barrister/ Follow us on Tiktok https://www.tiktok.com/@diaryofa_barrister Follow us on Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-brooke-ward500/  

  1. FEB 13

    Pupillage Interviews

    The conversation provides valuable insights into the mindset, preparation, and authenticity required for success in pupillage interviews. It emphasises the importance of specificity, alignment with chambers, and the demonstration of core skills. Additionally, it addresses the significance of direction, vision, and understanding chambers culture. The conversation also covers the handling of challenges, dealing with nerves, and building confidence for interviews. Takeaways Mindset is crucial for pupillage interviewsPreparation and authenticity are key to success in pupillage interviews Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Pupillage Interviews05:04 Preparation and Authenticity10:10 Demonstrating Resilience and Growth16:20 Identifying Core Skills23:00 Why You Are a Good Fit for Chambers28:17 Advocacy Exercises and Problem Questions33:45 Building Confidence for Interviews

    29 min

  2. FEB 6

    Pupillage - The Realities of the Recruitment Exercise

    The conversation delves into the reality of pupillage, emphasizing the importance of resilience, reflection, and authenticity in the application process. It highlights the purpose of pupillage as a recruitment exercise and the significance of specific evidence, reflection, and alignment in applications. The reframing of rejections and the development of confidence and resilience are also discussed, emphasizing the learning process of pupillage. Takeaways Pupillage is a recruitment exerciseResilience and reflection are key qualities for success in the barAuthenticity and alignment in applications are crucial Chapters 00:00 Building Confidence and Resilience

    38 min

  3. JAN 30

    The Third Law of Pupillage: Attraction

    The conversation delves into the third law of pupillage, which is about attraction and how it influences the outcomes of candidates. It explores the importance of presence, confidence, building confidence, clarity, consistency, professionalism, self-perception, resilience, boundaries, generosity, and responsibility in the context of pupillage and the legal profession. Takeaways Attraction is about how you are perceived, remembered, and trustedConsistency in experience and professionalism are key aspects of attraction Chapters 00:00 The Third Law of Pupillage: Attraction06:05 Building Confidence11:51 Consistency and Alignment18:05 Resilience and BoundariesSign up to the mailing list for the Pupillage Programme: https://mailchi.mp/483601e8219a/diary-of-a-pupil Join the Legal Circle on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/375293944477781/ Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/diaryofa_barrister/ Follow us on Tiktok https://www.tiktok.com/@diaryofa_barrister Follow us on Twitter https://x.com/diaryofa_Barris Follow us on Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-brooke-ward500/

    26 min

  4. JAN 23

    Mastering Pupillage Applications 101

    The conversation provides valuable insights into the process of crafting effective pupillage applications. It emphasizes the importance of early preparation, authenticity, and clarity in presenting oneself. Key takeaways include the significance of preparation and the need for authenticity and clarity in application responses. Takeaways Preparation is keyAuthenticity and clarity are crucial Chapters 00:00 The Purpose of Pupillage Applications05:23 Crafting Memorable Answers11:27 Avoiding Lazy Research and Generic Answers17:42 Specificity and Authenticity in Skill Claims22:44 The Importance of Proofreading28:17 Weight of Non-Legal Experience and Confidence Sign up to the mailing list for the Pupillage Programme: https://mailchi.mp/483601e8219a/diary-of-a-pupil Join the Legal Circle on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/375293944477781/ Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/diaryofa_barrister/ Follow us on Tiktok https://www.tiktok.com/@diaryofa_barrister Follow us on Twitter https://x.com/diaryofa_Barris Follow us on Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-brooke-ward500/

    31 min

  5. 09/22/2025

    The Second Law of Pupillage: Action

    In this episode of Diary of a Barrister, Chelsea Brooke-Ward, award-winning Employment Barrister and Head of the Employment Team at Park Square Barristers, explores the Second Law of Pupillage: Action. Building on the foundation of Alignment, this law focuses on the crucial role of discipline, daily habits, and authenticity in shaping a successful journey to the Bar. Chelsea shares insights drawn from her own experiences—both as a former pupil and now as a Pupil Supervisor—on why consistent action is the difference between aspiring to pupillage and actually achieving it. Listeners will discover how the right routines and intentional behaviours compound over time, how to overcome procrastination and self-doubt, and why authenticity in your actions matters just as much as the discipline behind them. This conversation is not just about working harder; it’s about working smarter, consistently, and with integrity. Chelsea unpacks practical tools to help law students and aspiring barristers stay on track, even when motivation fades, and explains how small daily steps create the momentum that ultimately secures pupillage offers. Whether you’re preparing for applications, sitting in interviews, or about to start pupillage yourself, this episode provides the strategies, mindset shifts, and honest encouragement you need to keep moving forward. Tune in to learn why action is the bridge between preparation and opportunity—and how building the right habits today will set you apart tomorrow.   Sign up to the mailing list for the Pupillage Programme: https://mailchi.mp/483601e8219a/diary-of-a-pupil Join the Legal Circle on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/375293944477781/ Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/diaryofa_barrister/ Follow us on Tiktok https://www.tiktok.com/@diaryofa_barrister Follow us on Twitter https://x.com/diaryofa_Barris Follow us on Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-brooke-ward/ Support the show   Support the show

    34 min

  6. 09/08/2025

    The Three Laws of Pupillage – Law One: Alignment

    In this episode of Diary of a Barrister, I, Chelsea Brooke-Ward, Employment Barrister at Park Square Barristers, dive into the first of the Three Laws of Pupillage: Alignment. This episode is all about cutting through the noise of pupillage applications and interviews to reveal what really makes a candidate stand out. Spoiler: it’s not luck, it’s not rehearsed answers, and it’s not a perfect CV — it’s alignment. We begin with a candid discussion about what alignment truly means: the subtle but powerful connection between your habits, values, and ambitions, and the chambers you want to join. I share personal insights from my own journey, including mistakes I made when I thought “telling my story well” was enough, and the shift that happened when I started living out my values instead of just talking about them. From there, I break down the practical side of alignment: Why chambers care about how your habits reflect their ethosExamples of how to spot whether your life and their values actually alignCommon pitfalls candidates fall into when their words and actions don’t matchHow small, everyday actions (from mooting to volunteering to pro bono work) build credibility long before interview dayWe also explore how alignment isn’t about being someone you’re not — it’s about living authentically and making sure your actions back up your ambitions. This applies not just to pupillage but to life at the Bar more broadly: clients, colleagues, and judges can all spot when you’re genuine versus when you’re performing. Throughout the episode, I offer practical takeaways you can implement immediately. Whether you’re at the application stage, gearing up for interviews, or even just starting your bar course, this conversation will help you reflect on whether your current habits are propelling you toward or away from the pupillage you want. Finally, we wrap up with a challenge: what is one habit you could adopt this week that would better align you with the chambers you admire? ✨ Alignment is silent, but magnetic. It attracts opportunity without you even having to ask for it. Join me in this engaging and thought-provoking episode as we uncover how alignment can transform not just your pupillage journey, but your career at the Bar. 👉 Continue the conversation inside The Legal Circle on Facebook — a community where aspiring barristers and legal professionals connect, share insights, and support each other’s journey Link Below. Sign up to the mailing list for the Pupillage Programme: https://mailchi.mp/483601e8219a/diary-of-a-pupil Join the Legal Circle on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/375293944477781/ Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/diaryofa_barrister/ Follow us on Tiktok https://www.tiktok.com/@diaryofa_barrister Follow us on Twitter https://x.com/diaryofa_Barris Follow us on Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-brooke-ward500/ Support the show   Support the show

    22 min

  7. 08/04/2025

    Refugee to Solicitor: Kiyala Matanga on the importance of vision, support and identity.

    We had the pleasure of speaking with Kiyala Matanga, a remarkable individual whose journey from being a refugee to becoming a future trainee solicitor is nothing short of inspirational. As the campus vice president at the University of Law and an SQE student, Kiyala embodies the spirit of resilience and determination that is essential for anyone pursuing a career in law. We kicked off by discussing Kiyala's background and the importance of environment in shaping one's future. She shared how her family instilled in her the belief that limitations are self-imposed, which has fueled her ambition to succeed in the legal field. We explored the significance of surrounding oneself with supportive and ambitious individuals, emphasising the idea that you are often the average of the five people you spend the most time with. Kiyala's insights into networking were particularly enlightening. She recounted her initial experiences in business networking, which helped her develop the confidence to connect with professionals in the legal sector. We discussed the importance of building a strong online presence, particularly on platforms like LinkedIn, and how authenticity in one's posts can foster genuine connections. Kiyala shared her journey of enhancing her LinkedIn profile, which ultimately led to fruitful interactions with legal professionals who were eager to help her. Throughout our discussion, we touched on the challenges faced by aspiring lawyers, particularly those from non-traditional backgrounds. Kiyala's perspective on overcoming adversity and the importance of mindset resonated deeply. She highlighted that while there may be societal stereotypes about who can succeed in law, it is crucial to focus on one's own path and not be deterred by external noise. We  delved into the significance of setting clear goals and having a vision for one's career. Kiyala shared her personal experiences of how a lack of clarity in her own path initially led to a longer journey toward becoming a solicitor. However, she emphasised that having a vision can significantly increase one's chances of success, as it provides direction and motivation. You can follow Kiyala on the following links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kiyala-matanga-84281b217?originalSubdomain=uk https://www.instagram.com/kiyalamatanga/ Join the Barristerhood on Facebook to join our monthly lives where you can ask questions in real time. https://www.facebook.com/groups/375293944477781/ Sign up to the mailing list for the Pupillage Programme: https://mailchi.mp/483601e8219a/diary-of-a-pupil Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/diaryofa_barrister/ Follow us on Tiktok https://www.tiktok.com/@diaryofa_barrister Follow us on Twitter https://x.com/diaryofa_Barris Follow us on Threads https://www.threads.net/@diaryofa_barrister Follow us on Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-brooke-ward500/

    49 min

  8. 07/28/2025

    The Diary of a Barrister - Barristerhood Live Session

    In this exciting live episode of the "Diary of a Barrister," I, Chelsea Brooke Ward, an Employment Barrister at Park Square Barristers, engage in a candid conversation about the realities of pursuing a career in law. This episode is designed to inspire and inform aspiring lawyers and law students, providing them with valuable insights into the journey of becoming a barrister. We kick off the episode with a discussion about the upcoming podcasting plans, including an anticipated collaboration with Ella from Ladies of Law. As I prepare for my closing speech in an ongoing trial, I share the challenges and excitement of being in the courtroom, highlighting the importance of preparation and the unpredictability of legal proceedings. Throughout the episode, I emphasise the significance of networking and building relationships within the legal community. Caitlyn and I discuss the importance of LinkedIn as a tool for professional growth, sharing personal experiences of how we have cultivated our networks and the impact it has had on our careers. We touch on the challenges of applying for pupillage and the necessity of being proactive in preparing applications well in advance. We delve into the often-overlooked aspects of mini-pupillages, discussing what constitutes a good mini-pupil and how to make a lasting impression. I share my own experiences and the lessons learned from various mini-pupillages, stressing the importance of initiative and professionalism in these formative experiences. As we navigate through the complexities of the bar course, I provide tips for success, including the importance of time management, effective note-taking, and treating the bar course as a full-time job. We discuss the emotional resilience required to handle rejection and the necessity of viewing setbacks as opportunities for growth. The episode also features a deep dive into the intricacies of employment law, as I share insights from my current trial, discussing the burden of proof in discrimination and unfair dismissal cases. We explore the nuances of legal arguments and the importance of understanding the law beyond theoretical knowledge. Finally, we wrap up the episode with a light-hearted discussion about the challenges of maintaining a professional appearance and the psychological benefits of dressing for success. I encourage listeners to embrace their individuality while navigating the demanding world of law. Join us for this engaging and informative episode, where we demystify the journey to becoming a barrister and share practical advice for those aspiring to make their mark in the legal profession. Join the Barristerhood on Facebook to join our monthly lives where you can ask questions in real time. https://www.facebook.com/groups/375293944477781/ Sign up to the mailing list for the Pupillage Programme: https://mailchi.mp/483601e8219a/diary-of-a-pupil Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/diaryofa_barrister/ Follow us on Tiktok https://www.tiktok.com/@diaryofa_barrister Follow us on Twitter https://x.com/diaryofa_Barris Follow us on Threads https://www.threads.net/@diaryofa_barrister Follow us on Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-brooke-ward500/ Support the show   Support the show Support the show

    52 min
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About

"The Diary of Barrister - The Lawyer Diaries" with your host Chelsea Brooke-Ward Welcome to “The Diary of a Barrister – The Lawyer Diaries”, your weekly dose of candid conversations, career advice, and insider insights on all things law, hosted by Chelsea Brooke-Ward. Chelsea is an award-winning Employment Barrister at Park Square Barristers, one of the largest sets in the North East, and she’s here to demystify the legal world for those determined to break into it — and thrive. Each episode, Chelsea shares her journey from a non-traditional, non-legal background to building a successful career at the Bar. Expect raw, honest, and inspiring episodes as she opens up about the challenges she faced, the lessons she learned, and what it really takes to stand out in this competitive profession. Along the way, Chelsea will be joined by a range of guests — from aspiring barristers and legal professionals to trailblazing role models — offering a 360° view of what life in law looks like, and the many paths to success. You’ll hear stories of setbacks, resilience, and breakthroughs, all packed with practical tips you can use right now. Whether you’re navigating pupillage applications, chasing scholarships, preparing for interviews, or already working in the legal field and striving to push boundaries — this is the podcast for you. It’s smart, empowering, and unfiltered. "The Diary of Barrister - The Lawyer Diaries" is your go-to resource for a weekly dose of knowledge, motivation, and practical advice. Whether you're a law student with big dreams , an aspiring lawyer seeking to break barriers, or lawyer wanting to smash glass ceilings this is your podcast,  your trusted companion on this remarkable journey into the legal world.Subscribe now and let Chelsea be your mentor in your ears — motivating, informing, and cheering you on every step of the way. Success in law begins with knowledge, and this podcast is your key to unlocking a bright future in the legal field. Sign up to the mailing list for the Pupillage Programme: https://mailchi.mp/483601e8219a/diary-of-a-pupil Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/diaryofa_barrister/ Follow us on Tiktok https://www.tiktok.com/@diaryofa_barrister Follow us on Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-brooke-ward500/  

Information

  • Creator
    Chelsea Brooke-Ward (Employment Barrister)
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    21
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Chelsea Brooke-Ward (Employment Barrister)
  • Show Website
    Diary of a Barrister - The Lawyer Diaries