Powerhouse Lawyers

Erin Gerner
  • 4.9 (39)
  • CAREERS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Are you an ambitious attorney who wants to build a life and career that you cannot wait to wake up for? Then you're in the right place. Welcome to Powerhouse Lawyers, a podcast for the Powerhouse in each of us. I am your host, Erin Gerner. A former lawyer, wife, mom, and life coach, and I am on a mission to empower women in the law to define success on their terms, by leveraging their unique superpowers to help them win in both law and life. Join me each week to hear inspiring stories, real talk, and practical tips. You need to redefine the toxic narratives that are keeping women overwhelmed, trying to do it all. You are worthy and capable of building a life and career that you have always wanted, and I'm here to empower you along the way. So if you are ready to practice law differently, let's go.

  1. 6D AGO

    From Interviewing Pop Stars to Running Lawyer.com: Why Fun Is Actually a Business Strategy

    Hey Powerhouses! This week we're diving into the wild world of legal tech with Colleen Joyce, CEO of Lawyer.com. From interviewing A-list celebrities at Popstar.com to building one of the leading online legal marketplaces, Colleen brings authenticity, energy, and a growth-first mindset to everything she does—including her new ice skating lessons (yes, really). We talk about riding the AI wave instead of getting crushed by it, why your competitors are already using AI and what you need to know, and how Colleen runs Lawyer.com like a startup with a flat organizational structure where anyone can bring an idea to the table. The conversation highlights the importance of leading by example, creating a culture where fun is a pillar (hello, dress-up days!), and why community and networking are some of the biggest growth levers you can pull. Colleen and I delve into the challenge of being a beginner at something, the power of testing every AI platform out there (even if you don't buy anything), and why understanding your baseline metrics is critical for growth. We also discuss how the legal tech space has shifted from buttoned-up lawyers to a more casual, Google-style startup environment, and why joining masterminds and communities—even when it's uncomfortable—is what builds longevity in business. Plus, Colleen shares her legally blonde moment of walking into a glass wall while scrolling on her phone (we've all been there), and invites us all to embrace the chaos, have fun, and maybe even lace up some ice skates. Connect with Colleen Joyce and Lawyer.com: LinkedIn: Colleen Joyce Website: Lawyer.com Phone: Give Lawyer.com a call—you might get Colleen herself! Stay connected with Erin Gerner: Website: eringerner.com LinkedIn: Erin Gerner Instagram: @eringerner Facebook: Erin Gerner Key Takeaway: If you're not using AI, your competitor is. Start with something fun to build your foundation, test every platform out there, and join community—it's one of the biggest growth levers you can pull. Oh, and maybe take up ice skating. Life's too short not to try new things.

    32 min

  2. FEB 5

    From Zero Clients to Retiring Her Doctor Husband: Building a Tech-Powered Law Firm

    Episode Description What happens when you start a law firm with zero clients, zero contacts, and a vision that doesn't fit anyone else's mold? Gabriela Smith did exactly that—and built it so successfully that her anesthesiologist husband retired from medicine to join her. In this powerful conversation, Gabriela shares how she transformed from a BigLaw litigator who hated asking permission for vacation into an entrepreneur building a tech-powered, human-centric M&A law firm that's rewriting the rules. She talks about legal subscriptions replacing billable hours, why AI can't replace human intuition, creating a law firm "umbrella" for entrepreneurial attorneys who want freedom, and what it really takes to walk through the thick mud of reinvention. This is for every attorney who's ever felt like they don't fit the traditional mold—because you don't have to. Connect with Gabriela Smith Instagram: @thegabbysmith LinkedIn: Gabriela Smith Email: gsmith@gnslawplc.com Podcast: Exit Ed Podcast Gabriela mentors moms and entrepreneurs—reach out if you want to connect. For attorneys interested in joining the GNS Law umbrella model, contact her husband Tim (he handles those conversations). Work with Erin Gerner Erin coaches high-achieving female attorneys who are successful on paper but struggling with burnout, identity crisis, and knowing what's next—helping them redefine success on their terms without sacrificing family or wellbeing. Contact: @eringerner on Instagram | Book a Free Call Key Takeaway: You don't have to fit the traditional mold. Start where you are, walk through the thick mud, and create what works for YOU. Legal subscriptions, AI-powered tools, entrepreneurial freedom—the future of law is human-centric, and it doesn't look like BigLaw anymore.

    47 min

  3. JAN 29

    The Conversation High-Achievers Are Afraid to Have (About Sex, Intimacy & Power)

    In this episode of the Powerhouse Lawyers podcast, host Erin Gerner interviews Amy Terwilleger, a certified sex and relationship coach. They discuss Amy's unique journey from law to coaching, the common struggles faced by high achievers regarding intimacy, and the importance of pleasure in both personal and professional life. Amy shares insights on how to enhance intimacy, the coaching process, and the significance of addressing grief and loss during transitions. The conversation emphasizes the need for open discussions about sexuality and the link between pleasure and success.Key Topics Covered Amy's journey from engineer to Women's Studies to BigLaw partner to sex coachLiving the "perfect life on paper" but feeling empty insideThe midlife reawakening (not crisis) that so many women experienceWhat high-achieving women aren't talking about: libido decline and intimacy strugglesWhy 80% of women don't orgasm from penetration alone (and why that's NORMAL)The difference between sex coaching and therapyHow sex education failed us (all negative, zero pleasure)Why we're taught to be prim and proper but expected to be sex goddessesThe science behind pleasure: oxytocin, dopamine, serotonin, endorphinsHow pleasure literally heals your body (backed by science)Why you should schedule sex (and why spontaneity is overrated)Responsive desire vs. spontaneous desireThe 20-second hug that releases oxytocinSolo play as self-discovery (yes, we're talking about masturbation)Holding space for grief even when you're moving forwardThe loss of identity when you leave the lawPermission slips for pleasure, joy, and prioritizing yourselfWork with Amy Terwilleger:  Amy provides sex and relationship coaching for driven professionals, power couples, and individuals. Amy offers a judgment-free space where you can talk openly about sex, intimacy, and pleasure without shame. Her sessions are goal-oriented, forward-looking, and results-driven—with homework assignments to help you take action (because you have to take action to get action). Ready to prioritize pleasure and reclaim intimacy? Website: ConfidentConnections.netInstagram: @MillennialDrRuthAmy reads all her DMs and is available for discovery calls. If you're a high-achieving professional who's been putting everyone else first and is ready to prioritize yourself—Amy gets it. She's been there. Reach out. Work with Erin Gerner: Erin coaches high-achieving female attorneys who are successful on paper but struggling with burnout, overwhelm, and identity crisis. If you're questioning whether this is "all there is," feeling stuck in your career, or ready to reclaim your time and set boundaries without sacrificing your family or wellbeing—Erin can help. Erin's approach is direct, no-nonsense, and challenges traditional legal culture norms. She focuses on calling out broken systems rather than helping you optimize within them. If you're ready to stop "shoulding" all over yourself and start building on YOUR terms—let's talk. Ready to stop apologizing and start building the life you actually want? Instagram: @eringernerLinkedIn: Erin GernerWebsite: www.eringerner.comBook a Free Powerhouse Connection CallErin reads every DM and email. If you're feeling stuck, burned out, or ready for something different—reach out. You're not alone. And you don't owe anyone an explanation for how you build your life.

    45 min

  4. JAN 22

    Ask for the Filet: Why Female Lawyers Need to Stop Accepting Less

    In this engaging conversation, Erin Gerner interviews Heather Reese, a Philadelphia-based attorney, speaker, content creator, and plus-size model. Heather shares her journey from disliking school to becoming a lawyer, emphasizing the importance of multi-dimensionality in professional careers. She discusses her cultural identity as a Latina and her commitment to amplifying underrepresented voices in the legal field. The conversation highlights the significance of community support, mentorship, and the power of women supporting women in overcoming challenges. Heather also shares her modeling journey and the lessons learned about self-confidence and breaking self-imposed limits, looking forward to a bright future in 2026.  KEY TAKEAWAYS  Heather's journey to law school was inspired by a family friend who was a lawyer.The importance of being a multi-dimensional professional in today's world.Cultural identity plays a significant role in shaping one's career and advocacy.Advocating for BIPOC communities is essential in the legal field.Mentorship and community support are crucial for young professionals.Women supporting women can lead to incredible outcomes in the workplace.Navigating challenges as a female lawyer requires resilience and support.Modeling has opened new opportunities and connections for Heather.Self-imposed limits can hinder personal growth and success.The future is bright, and opportunities are meant to be seized.Want to connect with Heather about BIPOC-owned brands, modeling, being a multi-dimensional professional, or just need another female attorney who gets it? She's your person. DM her on Instagram. Instagram: @heather_r_xoxoDMs are OPEN - Heather reads all her messages and is available to mentor young attorneys and modelsLooking to volunteer and help aspiring attorneys or models—reach out!Connect with Erin Instagram: @eringernerLinkedIn: Erin GernerWebsite: www.eringerner.comBook a Call: Powerhouse Connection Cal

    38 min

  5. JAN 8

    What I'm No Longer Apologizing For in 2026 (Permission Slip Included)

    Welcome to 2026! In this first episode of the new year, Erin gets real about what she's NO LONGER apologizing for—and why you shouldn't either. After sitting down to plan 2026, she realized something: she'd been running her business based on what things "should" look like instead of what she actually wanted. No more. In this powerful solo episode, Erin shares the 5 things she's done apologizing for in 2026—from not 10x-ing her business to building something that doesn't look like anyone else's. If you've ever felt guilty for not wanting MORE, for being multi-passionate, or for not having it all figured out—this is your permission slip to stop apologizing and start building on YOUR terms. Key Topics Covered Why "maintenance is a strategy" and you don't have to 10x everythingBeing a multi-passionate entrepreneur without apologizing for itCharging what you're worth (and why the right clients never complain about price)Not having it all figured out at 45 (and why that's actually a good thing)Building a business that looks different than everyone else'sHow to stop "shoulding" all over yourselfThe moment Erin realized she was apologizing to no oneWhy the Like-Know-Trust factor matters more than "staying in your lane"The 45th birthday funk and the sermon that changed everythingLFG: The theme for 2026Connect with Erin  Instagram: @eringernerLinkedIn: Erin GernerWebsite: www.eringerner.comBook a Call: Powerhouse Connection CallWhat are YOU no longer apologizing for in 2026? Tag Erin on Instagram or LinkedIn and let her know. She reads every single message and wants to hear your story. Want to come on the show or know someone who should? DM Erin—let's set up a coffee chat and make it happen. Ready to stop apologizing and start building on your terms? Book a free Powerhouse Connection Call with Erin. Don't forget to subscribe to the Powerhouse Lawyers podcast so you never miss an episode.

    23 min

  6. 12/18/2025

    The Loneliness of Being a Female Lawyer (And What We're Not Talking About)

    What happens when two female lawyers from different countries realize they're fighting the same battles? In this powerful conversation, Erin sits down with Odette Ansell—a Canadian litigator and host of the Non-Billable Hours podcast—to talk about the universal struggles female lawyers face: loneliness, identity crisis, the pressure to "have it all," and the desperate need for community. They discuss why it's so hard to separate your identity from your job, what to do when you feel stuck, and why vulnerability might be the bravest thing you do as a lawyer. If you've ever felt like you're the only one crumbling while everyone else looks like they're crushing it—this episode is your reminder that you're not alone. About Odette Ansell Odette Ansell is a Canadian litigator and the host of Non-Billable Hours, a podcast dedicated to honest conversations about life in and beyond the law. With a passion for connecting with lawyers across every practice area, she creates space for candid discussions about the joys, pressures, and personal passions that shape legal professionals. Odette is driven by a desire to spotlight what truly lights lawyers up outside their work—from creative pursuits to family life to unexpected hobbies. Through her thoughtful interviews, she explores the common challenges many lawyers experience but rarely voice. Her work aims to build community, normalize vulnerability, and remind lawyers that their identities extend far beyond their billable targets. Key Topics Covered Why Odette became a lawyer (and the personality test that said she'd be terrible at litigation)The universal struggles female lawyers face—regardless of country or practice areaWhy lawyers desperately need people who "get it" without needing contextThe loneliness epidemic in the legal profession (especially for women)How to separate your identity from your job when being a lawyer IS your personalityThe seasons of life and why "having it all" doesn't mean having it all at onceWhy women lawyers feel guilty for wanting something outside the lawThe bad advice that made Odette delete her food blog in law schoolHow to find community when you work from home and feel isolatedThe power of saying your goals out loud (even if you don't know how to achieve them)Why vulnerability is so hard for lawyers (and why we desperately need it)The retreats that made Erin realize: "These women get me at a visceral level"Connect with Odette Ansell Podcast: Non-Billable Hours (YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts)Instagram: @nonbillablehourspodcastWant to connect with Odette about building community, navigating identity outside the law, or just chat about life as a lawyer? Find her on Instagram or check out her podcast! Connect with Erin Instagram: @eringernerLinkedIn: Erin GernerWebsite: www.eringerner.comBook a Call: Powerhouse Connection Call If this conversation reminded you that you're not alone in what you're feeling, share it with another woman lawyer who needs to hear it. Tag Erin and Odette on social media and let them know what resonated. Feeling stuck and ready to make a change? Book a free Powerhouse Connection Call with Erin and let's figure out what's next. Don't forget to subscribe to the Powerhouse Lawyers podcast so you never miss an episode.

    39 min

  7. 12/11/2025

    Peptides, Perimenopause, and Why No One Talks About What's Really Happening to Our Bodies

    What if everything you thought about aging was wrong? In this eye-opening conversation, Erin sits down with her longtime friend Brandi Barnhill to discuss the health revolution that women in their 40s and 50s desperately need to hear about—but aren't. After 22 years in corporate pharmaceutical sales, Brandi discovered peptides during her own health journey and everything changed. Now she's helping women (and men) take back their health, energy, and confidence through longevity and wellness with EllieMD. If you're a woman in your 40s who feels like your body is betraying you, your energy is gone, and no one is talking about what you're experiencing—this episode is for you. About Brandi:  Brandi Barnhill is a wife, proud mom of three, and a woman in the middle of her most transformative chapter yet. After spending 22 years in corporate pharmaceutical sales, she felt a deep pull toward something more—something rooted in purpose, freedom, and impact. That calling led her to EllieMD, where she helps women and men take back their health, energy, and confidence through longevity and wellness with peptides. Beyond business, Brandi is passionate about helping others uncover what's possible when they say "yes" to growth and trust their intuition. Her journey is one of reinvention, courage, and faith—proof that it's never too late to start again. Whether she's building her dream life with her husband, cheering on her kids, traveling with friends and family, or helping others rediscover themselves, Brandi is fully embracing the abundance that comes with living life on purpose. Key Topics Covered Why women aren't talking about what's really happening to their bodies as they ageWhat peptides are and why they're not "too good to be true"The health journey that changed everything for Brandi and her husbandWhy your primary care physician probably won't recommend peptides (yet)The difference between getting peptides from a vetted source vs. your local med spaHow Brandi went from corporate pharmaceutical sales to building her own wellness businessThe moment she got displaced from her corporate job—and why it was a blessingWhy telehealth and peptides are changing the longevity gameBeing your own patient advocate and doing your own researchThe mindset shift required to reinvent yourself in your 40sWhy your 40s are just the beginning, not the endConnect with Brandi  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandihesterbarnhill/Work with Brandi: DM her on Instagram to learn more about peptides, EllieMD, or her journeyConnect with Erin Instagram: @eringernerLinkedIn: Erin GernerWebsite: eringerner.comBook a Call: Powerhouse Connection CallReady to stop waiting and start building the life and career you actually want? Book a free Powerhouse Connection Call with Erin. Don't forget to subscribe to the Powerhouse Lawyers podcast so you never miss an episode. This episode is for every woman who feels like her body is betraying her, her energy is gone, and no one is talking about what she's experiencing. You're not alone. And there IS a better way.

    38 min

  8. 12/04/2025

    You're Not a Bad Lawyer—You Just Hate How You're Practicing Law

    Episode Description Meet Jodi Runger—a spunky Southern Belle lawyer with over 21 years of legal practice experience who's discovering her creative side after decades of pushing it down. In this honest conversation, Jodi shares her journey from corporate burnout to launching her own podcast, setting boundaries that actually stick, and learning that being a lawyer doesn't have to define who you are. If you're a high-achieving woman attorney who feels stuck, burned out, or like you're waiting for permission to want something different—this episode will remind you that you're not alone, and there IS another way. About Jodi Runger Jodi Runger is a lawyer with over 21 years of experience in healthcare insurance, creditors' rights, ERISA, Medicare, and med spa law. After spending years representing major healthcare insurance companies and navigating personal injury cases, Jodi now helps injured individuals keep their settlement money by resolving complex healthcare reimbursement disputes. Beyond her legal expertise, Jodi is passionate about helping women step into their confidence and is embracing her creative side through content creation, decorating, styling, and her new podcast, Top Three Things with Jodi. She's proof that it's never too late to rediscover yourself and build a life that feeds your soul. Key Topics Covered The reality of lawyer burnout and why it happens earlier than you thinkWhy your career shouldn't define who you are as a personHow to set boundaries when you work from home (without the guilt)The creative side of lawyers that gets pushed down for decadesWhy confidence looks different at 47 than it did at 27The fear of judgment and how it keeps high-achievers stuckWhy women need to stop sitting on their hands and speak upHow coaching helps you see what you can't see on your ownThe importance of community and collaboration over competitionConnect with Jodi Runger Instagram: @shopwithjodi (Jodi with an "I")Facebook: Jodi RungerPodcast: Top Three Things with Jodi (coming soon!)Want to chat with Jodi about med spa law, healthcare reimbursement, or just connect? DM her on Instagram—she's an open book! Connect with Erin Instagram: @eringernerLinkedIn: Erin GernerWebsite: www.eringerner.comBook a Call: Powerhouse Connection CallCall to Action If this episode resonated with you, share it with a woman lawyer who needs to hear it. Tag Erin and Jodi on social media and let them know what hit home for you. Ready to get unstuck and start building a career and life you actually love? Book a free Powerhouse Connection Call with Erin and let's figure out if working together makes sense. Don't forget to subscribe to the Powerhouse Lawyers podcast so you never miss an episode.

    45 min
See All (108)

4.9
out of 5
39 Ratings

About

Are you an ambitious attorney who wants to build a life and career that you cannot wait to wake up for? Then you're in the right place. Welcome to Powerhouse Lawyers, a podcast for the Powerhouse in each of us. I am your host, Erin Gerner. A former lawyer, wife, mom, and life coach, and I am on a mission to empower women in the law to define success on their terms, by leveraging their unique superpowers to help them win in both law and life. Join me each week to hear inspiring stories, real talk, and practical tips. You need to redefine the toxic narratives that are keeping women overwhelmed, trying to do it all. You are worthy and capable of building a life and career that you have always wanted, and I'm here to empower you along the way. So if you are ready to practice law differently, let's go.

Information

  • Creator
    Erin Gerner
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    108
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright Erin Gerner 2023
  • Show Website
    Powerhouse Lawyers

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