The Free Lawyer

Gary Miles
  • 5.0 (58)
  • ENTREPRENEURSHIP
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
The Free Lawyer

The Free Lawyer Podcast is designed for the lawyer, entrepreneur or professional who is in some way unfulfilled, stressed or stuck and looking for something better. We will discuss various blocks that limit us from achieving the personal freedom we all desire but have not yet fully experienced. Are you looking to achieve a new level of success? If so, this podcast is for you!

  1. 3D AGO

    324. Are You Telling Yourself the Five Lies That Keep You Stressed as a Lawyer?

    In this episode of "The Free Lawyer," host Gary speaks with John Kormanik, a certified professional coach and former trial lawyer, about the challenges lawyers face, including stress, burnout, and misconceptions about success. John, author of "Break the Law," shares his journey from practicing law to coaching, emphasizing the importance of self-reflection and setting boundaries. They discuss the five lies lawyers tell themselves, such as equating busyness with success and the need to be available 24/7. John offers practical advice for overwhelmed lawyers, encouraging them to focus on personal fulfillment and redefine their metrics for success. John Kormanik, Esq., is on a mission to help attorneys reclaim their purpose, energy, and impact. As a Certified Professional Coach, former trial lawyer, and author of Break the Law, John brings decades of experience from the courtroom to the coaching space, guiding attorneys to say “no” to burnout and “yes” to a legacy they’re proud of by realizing their potential and optimizing their life. With 20+ years as a practicing attorney—including time as a Deputy Attorney General, law firm partner, and firm owner—John understands the unique pressures of the legal profession. Today, he coaches lawyers on reengineering their mindset, optimizing their systems, and rediscovering the joy in their work and life. When he’s not coaching exceptional attorneys, you’ll find John experiencing the world with Michelle, his wife of more than thirty years, riding his mountain bike, or walking his yellow Lab, Olive. Website: https://www.johnrkormanik.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnrkormanik/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/johnrkormanikcoaching/ Importance of Self-Reflection (00:05:21)Uncomfortable Quiet (00:05:37)The Key to Clarity (00:06:40)Lie #1: Grinding for Success (00:07:29)Lie #2: Busy Equals Success (00:07:48)Lie #3: 24/7 Availability (00:08:28)Managing Client Expectations (00:10:14)Lie #4: Money Equals Happiness (00:11:47)Lie #5: Asking for Help is Weakness (00:13:28)Value of Coaching (00:14:20)Evaluating Work Challenges (00:16:07)Setting Boundaries (00:17:48)Lawyers' Exhaustion Patterns (00:20:59)Understanding External Stressors (00:23:00)Recognizing Work Addiction Signs (00:24:50)Lawyer Identity vs. Profession (00:26:11)Potential Realized, Life Optimized (00:27:02)Value Beyond External Metrics (00:30:25)Finding Satisfaction in Law (00:33:26) Would you like to learn more about Breaking Free or order your copy? https://www.garymiles.net/break-free  Would you like to schedule a complimentary discovery call? You can do so here: https://calendly.com/garymiles-successcoach/one-one-discovery-call

    37 min

  2. 6D AGO

    323. Career Setbacks Are Unavoidable, But Losing Confidence Is Not

    Setbacks, career challenges, and resilience aren’t just buzzwords. They are daily realities for lawyers. In this episode, Gary Miles shares how to overcome setbacks without letting them define your character, confidence, and career. You’ll learn the 3 critical questions to ask after a loss, how to reframe failure as growth, and why resilience is the true skill that separates thriving attorneys from struggling ones. Get the Values Alignment Guide ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://upbeat-trailblazer-9238.kit.com/1604bbf4cb⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Would you like to learn more about Breaking Free or order your copy? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.garymiles.net/break-free⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Would you like to schedule a complimentary discovery call? You can do so here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://calendly.com/garymiles-successcoach/one-one-discovery-call⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠ Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqcfaTWo17uxmYS9hfAdiaQ Audio versions of the episode: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-free-lawyer/id1614507857 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5I6vBFWhM7beVJIRuBBxgU?si=01ce3fecac31443d

    18 min

  3. JUN 5

    322. The Best Approach to Law: Embracing "Feel Good Lawyering"

    In this episode of "The Free Lawyer," host Gary converses with Lani Medina, a corporate and M&A attorney, Air Force veteran, and founder of Lani Law LLC. Lani shares her journey from a senior associate at a law firm to starting her own practice. She discusses the challenges of this transition, her philosophy of "feel good lawyering," and the importance of aligning one's practice with personal values. Lani also highlights her cultural background, military experience, and the role of technology in her practice. The episode emphasizes finding joy and fulfillment in the legal profession through compassion and integrity. Lani Medina is a corporate and M&A attorney, Air Force veteran, and founder of Lani Law PLLC—a boutique law firm that delivers high-level legal counsel with a human touch. A Bronx native and proud Puerto Rican, Lani helps entrepreneurs and mission-driven companies navigate complex deals with clarity, compassion, and confidence. She brings 15+ years of experience, including Big Law and in-house roles, and is building a network to support socially conscious startups through accessible, feel-good lawyering. Challenges at the Law Firm (00:01:55)Fear and Anxiety in Transition (00:03:10)Cultural Background's Influence (00:04:24)Lessons from Military Service (00:05:44)Seeking Coaching (00:06:38)Breakthrough Moments in Coaching (00:07:51)Business Planning Process (00:08:32)Overcoming Fear of Leaving (00:09:27)Feel Good Lawyering Philosophy (00:10:54)Human Side of M&A Transactions (00:11:50)Advice for Stuck Lawyers (00:12:44)Mindset Shift to Business Owner (00:14:15)Using AI in Legal Practice (00:14:57)Redefining Success (00:16:07)Promoting Feel Good Lawyering (00:17:41)Investing in Yourself (00:19:41)Mindset Over Environment (00:20:39)Surprises in Coaching Relationship (00:21:27)Impact of Lani Law on Personal Life (00:22:20)Future Aspirations for Lani Law (00:23:28) Would you like to learn more about Breaking Free or order your copy? https://www.garymiles.net/break-free  Would you like to schedule a complimentary discovery call? You can do so here: https://calendly.com/garymiles-successcoach/one-one-discovery-call

    26 min

  4. JUN 2

    321. Lawyers, Isolation is Killing Your Success

    Loneliness and isolation are silently sabotaging the success of highly competent lawyers. In this episode, Gary Miles speaks to how the legal profession’s competitive culture and long hours create a dangerous cycle of isolation that damages both personal well-being and professional performance. Gary shares why isolation leads to impaired judgment, increased anxiety, and burnout. You’ll learn practical strategies to build meaningful professional connections, create support systems, and protect your mental health while thriving in your legal career. Get the Values Alignment Guide ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://upbeat-trailblazer-9238.kit.com/1604bbf4cb⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Would you like to learn more about Breaking Free or order your copy? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.garymiles.net/break-free⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Would you like to schedule a complimentary discovery call? You can do so here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://calendly.com/garymiles-successcoach/one-one-discovery-call⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠ Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqcfaTWo17uxmYS9hfAdiaQ Audio versions of the episode: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-free-lawyer/id1614507857 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5I6vBFWhM7beVJIRuBBxgU?si=01ce3fecac31443d

    18 min

  5. MAY 29

    320. How to Build a Personal Injury Law Firm with Empathy and Authenticity

    In this episode of "The Free Lawyer," host Gary interviews Kurt London, managing partner of London Parker Injury Law. Kurt shares his unique journey into personal injury law, including his transformative experiences in Russia and Kazakhstan, and a motorcycle accident that deepened his empathy for clients. He discusses the rapid growth of his firm, emphasizing the importance of personal branding, client empathy, and work-life balance. Kurt also highlights strategies for managing a law practice across multiple states and the significance of creating a supportive work environment. His story serves as an inspiration for lawyers seeking fulfillment and professional success. Kurt is the managing partner of London Harker Injury Law which serves the states of Utah, Montana, Arizona, Nevada, and California. Kurt is originally from Southern California and graduated with his Juris Doctorate from Brigham Young University’s J. Reuben Clark Law School.  After graduating, Kurt worked as an attorney for the Rocky Mountain Innocence Center, a chapter of the Innocence Project, to correct wrongful convictions in Utah, Wyoming, and Nevada. Afterwards Kurt practiced personal injury for Robert J. DeBry & Associates and then for Craig Swapp & Associates. Kurt is a board member of the Rocky Mountain Innocence Center. He is also a member of the Montana Trial Lawyers Association, Arizona Trial Lawyers Association, and Utah Association of Justice where he serves on the Board of Governors and is a member of UAJ’s Legislative Affairs Committee. To learn more visit www.londonharker.com. Personal Experience with Motorcycle Accident (00:03:09) Motivation to Enter Personal Injury Law (00:04:02) Prioritizing Client Interests (00:05:02) Building a Personal Brand (00:06:39) Importance of Brand Building for Attorneys (00:07:21) Kurt's Approach to Client Relationships (00:08:48) Marketing Strategies for a New Firm (00:10:09) Learning from Other Firms' Strategies (00:11:44) Empathy in Client Representation (00:13:43) Handling Cases Across Multiple States (00:15:12) Co-Counsel for Litigation (00:16:59) Challenges of Multi-State Practice (00:17:25) Overcoming Law Firm Challenges (00:18:10) Balancing Work and Family (00:18:58) Early Work Hours (00:19:44) Staff Appreciation Strategies (00:21:04) Creating a Supportive Firm Culture (00:22:59) Defining Personal Freedom (00:23:27) Utilizing LinkedIn for Branding (00:24:49) Building Authenticity in Branding (00:26:40) Advice for Stuck Lawyers (00:28:36) Would you like to learn more about Breaking Free or order your copy? https://www.garymiles.net/break-free  Would you like to schedule a complimentary discovery call? You can do so here: https://calendly.com/garymiles-successcoach/one-one-discovery-call

    32 min

  6. MAY 26

    319. Perfectionism, Pressure, and the Practice of Law

    Perfectionism is often worn as a badge of honor in the legal field, but what if it's actually fueling your burnout? In this episode, Gary Miles shares the hidden role fear plays in the practice of law and how perfectionism quietly erodes confidence, clarity, and connection. Drawing from over four decades in trial law, Gary shares personal stories of high-stakes wins, devastating setbacks, and the mindset shifts that transformed his career. This episode helps lawyers understand why lawyer burnout persists even in the most successful careers, and how redefining success can bring both freedom and fulfillment. Plus, Gary offers seven practical tools to stop letting fear drive your decisions and start showing up with bold, grounded advocacy. Get the Values Alignment Guide ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://upbeat-trailblazer-9238.kit.com/1604bbf4cb⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Would you like to learn more about Breaking Free or order your copy? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.garymiles.net/break-free⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Would you like to schedule a complimentary discovery call? You can do so here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://calendly.com/garymiles-successcoach/one-one-discovery-call⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠ Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqcfaTWo17uxmYS9hfAdiaQ Audio versions of the episode: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-free-lawyer/id1614507857 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5I6vBFWhM7beVJIRuBBxgU?si=01ce3fecac31443d

    20 min

  7. MAY 22

    318. How Can Lawyers Transform Stress into Success While Building Their Own Practice?

    In this episode of "The Free Lawyer," host Gary Miles interviews Dan Schneiderman, a personal injury trial attorney who recently opened his own practice. Dan, from a family of medical professionals, shares his journey from a deputy district attorney to entrepreneurship. He emphasizes the importance of mentorship, strategic career planning, and work-life balance. The discussion highlights Dan's transition challenges, his calculated approach to starting his firm, and the value of coaching in overcoming imposter syndrome. The episode offers insights into managing stress, maintaining productivity, and achieving fulfillment in the legal profession. As the owner and founder of Schneiderman Trial Attorneys, Mr. Schneiderman’s primary practice involves representing plaintiffs involved in personal injury disputes through mediation, arbitration, or trial in both state and federal court. Mr. Schneiderman’s clients are typically individuals that have been injured or wronged due to the fault of another, and are in or anticipate litigation for personal injury-related matters. Mr. Schneiderman’s specialty areas include matters involving traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, catastrophic injury and wrongful death.  As a trial attorney, Mr. Schneiderman has handled numerous complex, high-stakes civil and injury cases, achieving millions in results for my clients through trial, arbitration, and settlement in state and federal court.  For his work, Mr. Schneiderman has been rated by Super Lawyers magazine as being in the top 2.5% of attorneys under 40 years old, receiving the Rising Stars Award for his performance in civil litigation each year since 2016. Mr. Schneiderman has and continues to work towards providing his clients with an open and transparent attorney-client relationship, an effort that has earned him a “5 out of 5” star average client review and rating of “10/10” on the attorney review website.   When he’s not trying to get into a courtroom, you can usually find Dan trying to get to the beach for a surf, hanging out with his wife Vicki, two kids, and their two pets (a crazy cat and an English Bulldog), trying to invent or 3D print something in his garage, golfing, trying to write, fishing with his pops, or laying in the hammock in the backyard. Importance of Mentorship (00:10:52)Reflections on Wins and Losses (00:13:07)Control Over Professional Life (00:14:06)Seeking Coaching (00:17:01)Value of Support in Legal Profession (00:19:50)Lessons from Past Experiences (00:21:36)Calculated Launch of a New Firm (00:22:00)Defining Success and Personal Goals (00:22:37)Work-Life Balance Challenges (00:24:42)Email Management and Productivity (00:25:45)Crisis Management in Law (00:27:44)Imposter Syndrome Among Lawyers (00:29:05)Comparing Personal Growth (00:30:36)Finding Purpose in Legal Work (00:31:16)Creating Client Relationships (00:35:12)Vision for the New Firm (00:36:46)Value of Coaching and Mentorship (00:38:37) Would you like to learn more about Breaking Free or order your copy? https://www.garymiles.net/break-free  Would you like to schedule a complimentary discovery call? You can do so here: https://calendly.com/garymiles-successcoach/one-one-discovery-call

    41 min

  8. MAY 19

    317. Perfectionism Is Quietly Sabotaging Your Legal Career

    Perfectionism might look like dedication, but in reality, it’s one of the biggest drivers of lawyer burnout. In this episode, Gary Miles unpacks how the constant pursuit of flawlessness: endless document reviews, fear of feedback, and hesitancy to delegate—quietly erodes your confidence, time, and relationships. You’ll hear why perfectionism often begins long before your legal career and how it gets reinforced by law school, client expectations, and the high-stakes nature of legal work. We end with 5 practical strategies to break free from perfectionism and start operating from a place of strength, rather than stress. Get the Values Alignment Guide ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://upbeat-trailblazer-9238.kit.com/1604bbf4cb⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Would you like to learn more about Breaking Free or order your copy? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.garymiles.net/break-free⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Would you like to schedule a complimentary discovery call? You can do so here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://calendly.com/garymiles-successcoach/one-one-discovery-call⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠ Watch this episode on YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqcfaTWo17uxmYS9hfAdiaQ⁠ Audio versions of the episode: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-free-lawyer/id1614507857 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5I6vBFWhM7beVJIRuBBxgU?si=01ce3fecac31443d

    19 min
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5
out of 5
58 Ratings

About

The Free Lawyer Podcast is designed for the lawyer, entrepreneur or professional who is in some way unfulfilled, stressed or stuck and looking for something better. We will discuss various blocks that limit us from achieving the personal freedom we all desire but have not yet fully experienced. Are you looking to achieve a new level of success? If so, this podcast is for you!

Information

  • Creator
    Gary Miles
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2025
  • Episodes
    324
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Gary Miles
  • Show Website
    The Free Lawyer

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