You Are A Lawyer: Take Risks and Change Careers in Law

Kyla Denanyoh
  • 5.0 (24)
  • CAREERS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
You Are A Lawyer: Take Risks and Change Careers in Law

You Are A Lawyer is an interview podcast that promotes lawyers with fearless career changes, ambitious side hustles, and extraordinary lives. On this top-rated podcast, Kyla holds space for lawyers to be transparent and honest about their law school experiences, transitions out of the law, or the leaps they took to become a filmmaker, yogi, beauty brand founder, entrepreneur, etc. Ranked at 42 of the Top 90 Legal Podcasts, this podcast will motivate you to start that side hustle, challenge you to find a nontraditional career, and push you to embrace the hobby you’ve been hiding. So ask yourself, are you an ambitious lawyer who feels limited in your career? A law student who daydreams about impacting the world? Did you struggle with the bar exam, and now you’re bored with the law? Listen to You Are A Lawyer and discover new careers, amazing passions, and advice from lawyers who will motivate you to find new ways to use your law degree. Whether you’re working as an artist, tech investor, coach, or blogger, if you’ve graduated from law school, YOU ARE A LAWYER, and your law degree is valuable. Find more episodes and resources at www.youarealawyer.com. Join the email list and get introduced to more fearless lawyers every week.

  1. How to Leverage Networking to Grow Your Legal Career feat. Alex Mitchell

    6 DAYS AGO

    How to Leverage Networking to Grow Your Legal Career feat. Alex Mitchell

    Alex Mitchell, owner of Cumberland Law Group, shares his journey from law school to building a thriving multi-state law firm specializing in tax defense, criminal defense, and personal injury. In this episode, Alex reveals how strategic networking and authentic connections have propelled his career, offering practical advice for young lawyers and law students looking to grow their legal careers. Whether you're exploring niche practice areas or dreaming of running your own firm, Alex’s story is packed with actionable insights and inspiration. Lawyer Side Hustles Alex’s journey underscores the diverse opportunities a law degree can unlock, including side hustles and non-traditional legal careers. While many law students envision roles at big law firms or in traditional practice areas, Alex points out that the legal profession offers space for entrepreneurial ventures and specialized niches. His own career pivot into tax law highlights how identifying untapped markets can lead to fulfilling and lucrative opportunities. For lawyers seeking alternative paths, Alex recommends embracing the versatility of a law degree and exploring roles in compliance, consulting, or other adjacent fields where legal expertise is highly valued. “A lot of our classmates went into compliance... they’re not practicing, but they have a bar license, and that is very heavy, especially with the advance of technology,” shares Alex Mitchell in Episode 171 of You Are a Lawyer.Alex also emphasizes the importance of staying open to unexpected opportunities, sharing how his firm expanded during the pandemic by identifying a market gap in North Carolina. His story illustrates how side hustles and non-traditional careers can emerge from networking and strategic decision-making. For those considering a leap outside of traditional practice, Alex’s advice is clear: leverage your legal knowledge to create unique solutions and value in spaces where it’s most needed. LISTEN TO LEARN How strategic networking can open doors and create career-defining opportunities in law.Why identifying niche markets, like tax law, can position you as a sought-after expert.Practical tips for balancing law firm management with active casework and client representation.WE ALSO DISCUSS Alex’s journey from aspiring prosecutor to tax attorney and multi-state law firm owner.The importance of authenticity and building genuine professional relationships.Insights into overcoming imposter syndrome and thriving as a first-generation lawyer. Join the FREE mailing list! Get behind-the-scenes content from You Are A Lawyer.  1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com 2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR 3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen 4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)! Interact with You Are A Lawyer Kyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast.  Follow the podcast: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@youarealawyer Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

    29 min
  2. How to Build Resilience as a Young Lawyer feat. Kenya Rothstein

    DEC 5

    How to Build Resilience as a Young Lawyer feat. Kenya Rothstein

    Kenya Rothstein is an environmental attorney and podcast host who knows firsthand how resilience and rejection can shape a dream career. In this episode, Kenya shares her journey from navigating law school during a pandemic to launching her podcast, Thank You for Saying NO, where she reframes rejection as a powerful opportunity for growth. Join us as Kenya discusses how embracing “no” moments can lead to unexpected paths and inspire lasting success. Lawyer Side Hustles For many lawyers, side hustles or non-traditional legal careers offer a way to explore passions beyond the courtroom, and Kenya is no exception. Alongside her work as an environmental attorney, Kenya hosts her podcast, Thank You for Saying NO, where she reframes rejection as an opportunity for growth. Her journey demonstrates how legal skills like research, storytelling, and preparation can seamlessly translate into creative projects, allowing lawyers to pursue fulfilling ventures while maintaining their professional roles. “Some of my skills as an attorney, like directly translate to podcasting. I know the answer to every question I'm going to ask already. And I know their whole story,” shares Kenya Rothstein in Episode 170 of You Are a Lawyer.Kenya’s side hustle is more than just a creative outlet—it’s a way to connect with others and inspire them to embrace resilience in the face of challenges. She believes lawyers are inherently creative problem-solvers, capable of using their unique skill set to pursue diverse interests and build impactful side businesses. Her story is a testament to the idea that being a lawyer doesn’t mean being limited to one identity; instead, it’s an opportunity to explore new avenues and redefine what success looks like in the legal field and beyond. LISTEN TO LEARN How to reframe rejection as an opportunity for growth and resilience.Why embracing “no” moments can lead to unexpected career paths and personal success.How to balance vulnerability and professionalism in creative pursuits like podcasting. WE ALSO DISCUSS Kenya’s experiences as an environmental attorney and the challenges of litigation.How skills from law school translate into other areas like podcasting.The unexpected ways life can align when you follow your purpose. Join the FREE mailing list! Get behind-the-scenes content from You Are A Lawyer.  1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com 2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR 3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen 4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)! Interact with You Are A Lawyer Kyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast.  Follow the podcast: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@youarealawyer Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

    25 min
  3. How to Stay Consistent as a Content Creator feat. Kyla Denanyoh

    NOV 28

    How to Stay Consistent as a Content Creator feat. Kyla Denanyoh

    Kyla Denanyoh is a podcaster, digital educator, and business owner passionate about helping others thrive in their entrepreneurial journeys. In this episode, Kyla shares five must-do strategies for content creators and business owners in 2025, emphasizing the power of being vocal, consistent, and intentional about your work. Through actionable insights and personal anecdotes, she inspires listeners to elevate their brand visibility and embrace new ways to grow their businesses. Storytelling for Connection Storytelling is a critical skill for connecting with your audience because it allows you to build genuine relationships, create memorable impressions, and clearly communicate your purpose. As Kyla explains, it’s not about fabricating stories or exaggerating, but about crafting authentic narratives that resonate. People are drawn to relatable and engaging accounts that show who you are and what you stand for. Whether it's through a 30-second elevator pitch or a longer conversation, storytelling helps you stand out and make your message unforgettable. "You have to tell a story," emphasizes Kyla Denanyoh on Episode 169 of You Are a Lawyer.In a world saturated with content, a well-crafted story gives your audience a reason to care. Kyla shares how storytelling sets the tone for your brand, letting people know what you're about and why they should trust you. For her, this means showing business owners how podcasts can be the solution when traditional marketing falls short. By clearly articulating your ‘why’ and presenting it as part of a relatable narrative, you create a connection that leaves a lasting impact. LISTEN TO LEARN How to amplify your brand visibility by being vocal and assertive.Why storytelling is a critical skill for connecting with your audience.The importance of consistency in building trust and recognition.How boosting others' brands can strengthen your own.The mindset shift needed to commit to doing the work and achieving success. WE ALSO DISCUSS Why passive marketing produces passive results.How Kyla integrates podcasting into everyday conversations.Practical ways to turn challenges into opportunities for growth.Tips for navigating social media algorithms effectively in 2025. Join the FREE mailing list! Get behind-the-scenes content from You Are A Lawyer.  1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com 2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR 3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen 4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)! Interact with You Are A Lawyer Kyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast.  Follow the podcast: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@youarealawyer Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

    6 min
  4. How To Secure Law School Scholarships and Succeed in Admissions feat. Jasmin Robinson

    NOV 21

    How To Secure Law School Scholarships and Succeed in Admissions feat. Jasmin Robinson

    Jasmin Robinson is a trailblazing attorney and law school coach dedicated to increasing diversity in the legal profession. In this episode, she shares her journey from being the first lawyer in her family to founding Jas Talks Law, a consulting brand that has helped students secure over $2 million in scholarships. Jasmin emphasizes the importance of personalized guidance in the law school admissions process and her mission to empower future lawyers, particularly from underrepresented backgrounds. Lawyer Side Hustles In the podcast episode featuring Attorney Jasmin Robinson, the discussion highlights the growing trend of lawyers engaging in side hustles, particularly through her own venture, Jas Talks Law. This business not only serves as a law school admissions consulting brand but also addresses the significant underrepresentation of Black lawyers in the legal profession. Jasmin's journey exemplifies how lawyers can leverage their expertise to create additional income streams while making a meaningful impact in their communities. By helping aspiring law students secure scholarships and navigate the admissions process, she has successfully combined her passion for law with entrepreneurship. “I didn't even look at it as a business. I just looked at it as something I wanted to help people,” shares Jasmin Robinson in Episode 168 of You Are a Lawyer.By establishing side businesses like Jas Talks Law, attorneys can not only enhance their professional fulfillment but also contribute to addressing systemic issues within the legal field. Such initiatives not only empower future lawyers but also allow current practitioners to utilize their skills in innovative ways, ultimately enriching the legal landscape. LISTEN TO LEARN The importance of mentorship and guidance in the law school admissions process.Strategies for writing compelling personal and diversity statements for law school applications.Insights on how to secure scholarships and financial aid for law school, including the significance of eliminating financial barriers. WE ALSO DISCUSS Jasmin’s journey as the first lawyer in her family and her motivation to help future lawyers.The challenges and experiences of law school, including the balance between studying and working.The creation and success of Jas Talks Law, including the development of workbooks and online courses. Join the FREE mailing list! Get behind-the-scenes content from You Are A Lawyer.  1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com 2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR 3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen 4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)! Interact with You Are A Lawyer Kyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast.  Follow the podcast: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@youarealawyer Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

    18 min
  5. [REWIND] How To Transition from Military Service to Civilian Law Practice feat. Vernon Thomas

    NOV 14

    [REWIND] How To Transition from Military Service to Civilian Law Practice feat. Vernon Thomas

    Vernon Thomas, a military attorney in the United States Army Reserves and a city prosecutor in New Orleans, shares his unique journey from aspiring English teacher to successful lawyer. In this episode, he reflects on the influence of his father, a prominent attorney, and discusses the importance of analytical skills in legal practice, as well as his unconventional approach to studying for the bar exam. Vernon also emphasizes the value of mentorship and the diverse opportunities that a law degree can provide. Lawyer Side Hustles In this episode, the discussion highlights the growing trend of lawyers engaging in side hustles alongside their primary legal practices. Vernon exemplifies this by balancing his role as a municipal prosecutor with a private criminal defense practice. This dual approach not only allows him to diversify his income but also enriches his legal experience. By managing both responsibilities, he gains insights from different areas of law, which ultimately enhances his effectiveness as an attorney. “The municipal prosecution job... is part-time... and then because I'm part-time, I'm allowed to have my private criminal defense practice,” shares Vernon Thomas in Episode 167 of You Are a Lawyer.Thomas's involvement in the Cutting Edge Music Conference illustrates how lawyers can leverage their expertise in niche markets, such as entertainment law, to create additional opportunities. This conference serves as a platform for legal professionals to connect with others in the entertainment industry, providing valuable insights into the complexities of intellectual property and agency relationships. By engaging in such side ventures, lawyers can not only expand their professional networks but also explore their passions outside of traditional legal work. This multifaceted approach to a legal career can lead to greater job satisfaction and a more robust understanding of the law's application in various contexts. LISTEN TO LEARN Insights into the unique experiences of a military attorney and the differences between military and civilian law practicesThe importance of analytical skills in law and how they can be applied in various legal contextsThe significance of mentorship and learning from family legacies in the legal profession WE ALSO DISCUSS The impact of family background on career choices and the advantages of having a legal mentorThe role of the Cutting Edge Music Conference in educating about entertainment law and the evolving landscape of digital contentAdvice for prospective law students, emphasizing that it's never too late to pursue a legal education and the importance of hard work and dedication Join the FREE mailing list! Get behind-the-scenes content from You Are A Lawyer.  1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com 2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR 3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen 4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)! Interact with You Are A Lawyer Kyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast.  Follow the podcast: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@youarealawyer Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

    25 min
  6. How To Continuously Learn as a Lawyer in a Changing Industry feat. Jon Groth

    NOV 7

    How To Continuously Learn as a Lawyer in a Changing Industry feat. Jon Groth

    Jon Groth, a personal injury attorney and managing partner of Groth Law Firm in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, shares his journey from law school to running a successful practice with a diverse range of cases, including car accidents and vaccine injuries. In this episode, Jon emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and effective communication in the legal profession, while also discussing the unique challenges and rewards of managing a law firm. He highlights the value of connecting with clients from all walks of life and the significance of adapting to the ever-evolving landscape of law and technology. Lawyer Side Hustles As Jon Groth discussed in his podcast episode, the legal profession offers unique opportunities for attorneys to leverage their skills beyond traditional practice. For instance, Groth mentioned his experience with marketing himself while he was an associate. This proactive approach not only helped him generate revenue for the firm but also laid the groundwork for his eventual transition to running his own personal injury law firm. “I wanted to show them, hey, I can do this and I'm bringing in my own cases,” shares Jon Groth in Episode 166 of You Are a Lawyer.In addition to traditional legal practice, lawyers can engage in various side ventures, such as consulting, teaching, or even creating content through podcasts and social media. Groth's own podcast, Groth Gets It, exemplifies how attorneys can share their knowledge and connect with a broader audience while simultaneously enhancing their personal brand. By embracing these side hustles, lawyers can not only increase their income but also foster a culture of continuous learning and professional development, which Groth emphasizes as essential in the legal field. LISTEN TO LEARN The importance of continuous learning and professional development in the legal field.How to effectively communicate with diverse clients and professionals.Strategies for leveraging technology and social media for law firm marketing. WE ALSO DISCUSS The Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) and its application in law firm management.The significance of understanding different legal specialties and their complexities.The role of mentorship and giving back to the legal community. Join the FREE mailing list! Get behind-the-scenes content from You Are A Lawyer.  1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com 2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR 3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen 4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)! Interact with You Are A Lawyer Kyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast.  Follow the podcast: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@youarealawyer Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

    22 min
  7. How To Build Your Legal Career as a First-Generation Lawyer feat. Brooke Salazar

    OCT 31

    How To Build Your Legal Career as a First-Generation Lawyer feat. Brooke Salazar

    Brooke Salazar joins us in this episode to share her inspiring journey as a first-generation lawyer and business owner. With a passion for diversity, equity, and inclusion, Brooke discusses the importance of authentic networking and sponsorship in building a successful career, as well as her insights on navigating the complexities of compliance and employee benefits. Tune in to hear her valuable advice for aspiring professionals looking to make their mark in the legal field. Lawyer Side Hustles Lawyers increasingly seek side hustles to diversify their income and explore their passions outside of traditional legal practice. As Brooke Salazar highlighted in her conversation, many attorneys find fulfillment in leveraging their unique skills and experiences to create additional revenue streams. For instance, Brooke mentioned her own journey of running a law firm while also writing a book aimed at first-generation professionals. This dual focus not only allows her to share valuable insights but also helps her connect with a broader audience who may benefit from her experiences. “I know I'm very good at building authentic connections. I'm very good at building a book of business because I really embraced authentic networking,” shares Brooke Salazar in Episode 165 of You Are a Lawyer.Brooke emphasized the importance of authenticity in building a side business, underscoring the idea that successful side hustles for lawyers often stem from genuine relationships and a clear understanding of one's strengths. By engaging in side projects that resonate with their personal and professional values, lawyers can enhance their careers while also contributing positively to their communities. LISTEN TO LEARN The importance of sponsorship in advancing your career and how it differs from mentorship.Strategies for building authentic connections in professional settings.Insights on navigating the complexities of DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) in the workplace. WE ALSO DISCUSS The challenges faced by first-generation professionals and how to overcome them.The impact of personal upbringing on professional identity and confidence.The balance between authenticity and professionalism in the legal field. Join the FREE mailing list! Get behind-the-scenes content from You Are A Lawyer.  1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com 2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR 3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen 4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)! Interact with You Are A Lawyer Kyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast.  Follow the podcast: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@youarealawyer Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

    42 min
  8. How Coaching will Improve Your Law Practice feat. Daya Naef

    OCT 24

    How Coaching will Improve Your Law Practice feat. Daya Naef

    Daya Naef is a seasoned attorney and the founder of The Success Partner, a coaching and consulting firm dedicated to helping law firms and solo practitioners navigate pivotal stages in their careers. In this episode, Daya shares her journey from construction law to coaching, emphasizing the importance of work-life balance, the limitless possibilities for young lawyers, and the value of creative pursuits outside of the legal profession. Join us as we explore how Daya empowers others to find their path and thrive in their legal careers. Lawyer Side Hustles In today's evolving legal landscape, many lawyers are exploring side hustles to diversify their income and pursue their passions outside of traditional practice. Daya Naef, founder of The Success Partner, exemplifies this trend by blending her legal expertise with coaching and consulting for law firms. Her business serves as a "co-pilot" for attorneys looking to grow their practices, whether they are solo practitioners or part of a small firm. This approach not only allows lawyers to leverage their skills in new ways but also provides them with the flexibility to explore their interests, such as Daya's passion for art and community engagement. “The sky is the limit,” shares Daya Naef in Episode 164 of You Are a Lawyer.Daya emphasizes the importance of embracing opportunities beyond the conventional legal career path. This mindset encourages young lawyers and law students to consider alternative avenues for their law degrees, such as starting their own businesses or consulting practices. By advocating for themselves and seeking out diverse experiences, lawyers can find fulfillment and success in both their primary careers and side ventures, ultimately enriching their professional lives. LISTEN TO LEARN How to navigate career transitions and the value of having a co-pilot in your professional journey.Insights on work-life balance and setting boundaries in a demanding profession.The significance of advocating for oneself in a law firm environment to explore different practice areas.WE ALSO DISCUSS Daya's journey from construction law to coaching and consulting for law firms.The role of creativity in a lawyer's life and how it can enhance overall well-being.The benefits of mentorship and coaching for young lawyers and law students. Join the FREE mailing list! Get behind-the-scenes content from You Are A Lawyer.  1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com 2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR 3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen 4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)! Interact with You Are A Lawyer Kyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast.  Follow the podcast: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@youarealawyer Website: https://www.youarealawyer.com

    19 min
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About

You Are A Lawyer is an interview podcast that promotes lawyers with fearless career changes, ambitious side hustles, and extraordinary lives. On this top-rated podcast, Kyla holds space for lawyers to be transparent and honest about their law school experiences, transitions out of the law, or the leaps they took to become a filmmaker, yogi, beauty brand founder, entrepreneur, etc. Ranked at 42 of the Top 90 Legal Podcasts, this podcast will motivate you to start that side hustle, challenge you to find a nontraditional career, and push you to embrace the hobby you’ve been hiding. So ask yourself, are you an ambitious lawyer who feels limited in your career? A law student who daydreams about impacting the world? Did you struggle with the bar exam, and now you’re bored with the law? Listen to You Are A Lawyer and discover new careers, amazing passions, and advice from lawyers who will motivate you to find new ways to use your law degree. Whether you’re working as an artist, tech investor, coach, or blogger, if you’ve graduated from law school, YOU ARE A LAWYER, and your law degree is valuable. Find more episodes and resources at www.youarealawyer.com. Join the email list and get introduced to more fearless lawyers every week.

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