Your Legal Big Sister

Rebecca Johnston-Ryan

Join host Rebecca Johnston-Ryan, Principal at Johnston Ryan Legal and your legal big sister, for a podcast delivering practical guidance and compassionate support to help listeners navigate the legal and emotional complexities of life with confidence and care. Drawing from deep expertise and real-world experience supporting communities throughout Naarm/Melbourne, Beck brings warmth, clarity, and relatable insight to difficult topics, making the law accessible to all.

Episodes

  1. Apr 21

    Burnout and Boundaries in Family Violence Work, with guest Maddie Lynch

    “You’re not a bad lawyer because you need help. You’re a human doing really hard work.” In this episode of Your Legal Big Sister, Beck is joined by Maddie Lynch, Managing Lawyer of the Family Law & Family Violence team at Fitzroy Legal Service, to talk candidly about the reality of working on the frontline as lawyers in the family violence space. Together, Maddie and Beck discuss the hurdles and emotional demands commonly faced by practitioners, and the toll they can take in even the most rewarding of cases. The conversation explores the dangers of burnout, vicarious trauma and that “crispy” feeling when the emotional weight begins to take its toll. They also share the protective factors that help them to keep going, from holidays and hobbies, to reflective practice, supervision and connecting with colleagues as part of a close team. This episode offers a grounded look at the humans behind the legal work, and how wins both big and small work to help lawyers feel grounded, supported and able to keep showing up for their clients. This episode continues our special season called Home Safe, a practical and informative resource for those experiencing family violence and personal safety concerns. Home Safe will provide expert guidance and practical strategies for navigating the family law system, seeking help and making informed choices, with a focus on inclusivity and support for diverse and vulnerable communities. Learn more about Johnston Ryan Legal

    27 min

About

Join host Rebecca Johnston-Ryan, Principal at Johnston Ryan Legal and your legal big sister, for a podcast delivering practical guidance and compassionate support to help listeners navigate the legal and emotional complexities of life with confidence and care. Drawing from deep expertise and real-world experience supporting communities throughout Naarm/Melbourne, Beck brings warmth, clarity, and relatable insight to difficult topics, making the law accessible to all.