Episodes
In this podcast episode, host Gary Miles discusses the critical role of accountability in the legal profession for achieving professional and personal goals. He explores how accountability acts as a catalyst for progress, sharing his experiences with his coaching clients. He emphasizes lawyers' challenges, such as billable hours and work-life balance, and how accountability can provide structure and motivation. Gary suggests having an accountability partner for support and concludes by...
Published 05/20/24
Published 05/20/24
Gary welcomes Jeff Cunningham, Connecticut litigator and fractional general counsel in this podcast episode. They discuss Jeff's work in legal malpractice, attorney discipline, and his emphasis on risk management and proactive client communication. Jeff also touches on the critical role of attorney wellness in reducing malpractice claims and the benefits of having an outside general counsel for maintaining confidentiality and addressing personal challenges. They highlight the necessity of...
Published 05/16/24
In this podcast episode, Gary Miles, a seasoned lawyer with 45 years of experience, discusses the importance of clarity in legal careers. Addressing lawyers' difficulty finding career clarity due to heavy workloads and high-pressure environments, Gary highlights the adverse effects of confusion, such as stress and burnout. He offers practical advice for gaining clarity, including self-reflection, networking, and mentorship, and stresses the transformative role of mentors in guiding legal...
Published 05/13/24
In this podcast episode, host Gary interviews Miriam Airington-Fisher, the founding partner of Airington Law, a women-led law firm in Virginia. They discuss Miriam's transition from a trial lawyer to an entrepreneur, her challenges as a single mother starting her practice, and how she managed to grow her firm while maintaining a work-life balance. Miriam shares her journey from taking any case that came through the door to strategically building a business supporting her clients and her team....
Published 05/09/24
In this episode of "The Free Lawyer," Gary tackles the pervasive issue of self-doubt among lawyers. The episode explores self-doubt's various forms, including imposter syndrome and perfectionism, and its detrimental effects on well-being and professional performance. Gary offers practical advice and discusses strategies like positive self-talk and mentorship to combat these challenges. He empowers listeners to believe in themselves and utilize the discussed tools to succeed in their legal...
Published 05/06/24
In this episode of "The Free Lawyer" podcast, host Gary interviews Jon Cumberworth, a fractional COO specializing in supporting law firms. Jon not only discusses the importance of leadership, firm culture, and aligning business practices with core values, but also provides practical strategies to overcome these challenges. He addresses the common issues faced by law firms, such as the lack of business training and talent retention, and highlights the transformative power of clear goals,...
Published 05/02/24
In this podcast episode, host and lawyer Gary Miles addresses the issue of isolation within the legal profession. He explores how lawyers often feel lonely and disconnected, even when surrounded by others, and the adverse effects this has on their health and work. Gary discusses the industry's stigma around mental health and the reluctance to seek help. He then provides solutions, such as mindfulness, journaling, therapy, peer support, and mentorship, urging lawyers to prioritize their...
Published 04/29/24
In this podcast episode, the host, Gary, is joined by Ronnie Deaver, a renowned legal marketing expert with a proven track record of helping law firms grow their practice. Together, they delve into practical strategies, emphasizing the crucial role of marketing, intake, and sales in converting leads into clients and driving revenue. Key topics include optimizing Google Business Profile, leveraging Google Ads, offering paid consultations, and employing narrative sales techniques. They also...
Published 04/25/24
In this episode, Gary addresses the critical issue of mental health in the legal profession, sharing his battle with addiction and offering insights for recovery and wellness. He discussed the high incidence of depression, anxiety, and substance abuse among lawyers, attributing it to the profession's inherent stress and competitive nature. The host recounts his struggle with alcohol and the journey to recovery and presents five fundamental principles to aid others facing similar challenges,...
Published 04/22/24
In this podcast episode, Gary engages in a conversation with Larry Williams, a patent attorney from Cincinnati, delving into the challenges that legal professionals face. They underscore the significance of work-life balance and mental wellness, discussing the pressures of law school and the legal field, the repercussions of burnout, and the necessity of setting boundaries. Larry introduces his 'Guide to a Simple Life' workbook, a practical tool designed to assist lawyers in aligning their...
Published 04/18/24
In this podcast episode, Gary discusses the negative effects of busyness on our professional and personal lives. He explores the reasons why we feel compelled to be busy and the problems it can cause, such as physical and mental health issues, decreased productivity, and damaged relationships. To escape the prison of busyness, Gary provides eight practical tips, including evaluating how we spend our time, setting goals, and practicing self-care. He emphasizes the importance of being...
Published 04/15/24
In this podcast episode, host Gary interviews Shaun Jardine, a UK lawyer and value-based pricing expert. Shaun discusses his dissatisfaction with the billable hour system and advocates for value-based pricing, which aligns legal fees with the value provided to clients. He shares his experiences and insights on implementing this model, including offering clients pricing options and ensuring price certainty. Shaun also addresses challenges such as resistance within law firms and the need for...
Published 04/11/24
In this podcast episode, Gary underscores the vital role of leadership within the legal profession. He critiques the common neglect of leadership skills in law and describe the negative traits sometimes seen in legal leaders. He outlines the challenges facing the legal sector, such as diversity, mental health, and adapting to change. He details the key attributes of a good leader, including integrity and empathy, and provides actionable steps for lawyers to become effective leaders. The...
Published 04/08/24
In this podcast episode, host Gary interviews Laura Lange, an attorney who transitioned from traditional law firm and corporate roles to forge her own career path. Laura shares her experience with burnout and how it led her to reevaluate her career, eventually combining her legal expertise with her passion for yoga. She discusses the challenges and rewards of starting an online business, providing legal services to entrepreneurs, and the importance of legal protection for small businesses....
Published 04/04/24
In this podcast episode, host Gary, an author and coach, offers guidance to lawyers on managing stress and workloads. He shares 12 productivity tips, including prioritizing tasks, avoiding multitasking, and setting time limits. Gary stresses the importance of taking control of one's time, organizing workspaces, and minimizing distractions. He also discusses the benefits of increased productivity, such as better client relationships and work-life balance.  The challenges of workload and...
Published 04/01/24
In this podcast episode, host Gary interviews Travis Hoechlin, a specialist in law firm business growth, focusing on online marketing strategies. They discuss the evolution of online attorney marketing, the significance of content creation, and the introduction of Google's local service ads. Travis advises on targeting the right clients through strategic content and geographical targeting. He also highlights common mistakes law firms make, such as failing to answer phone calls, which can lead...
Published 03/28/24
In this podcast episode, host Gary Miles, a seasoned lawyer with 45 years of experience, discusses the severe issue of burnout among legal professionals. Having left full-time practice, he now advocates for better mental health and wellness within the legal field. He describes the high stress, long hours, and competitive nature of law that contribute to poor mental health and reduced productivity. He suggests a comprehensive approach to combat these issues, including workplace culture change,...
Published 03/25/24
In this podcast episode, Gary interviews Oakland McCullough, a former military officer and leadership expert, about the principles of effective leadership. They discuss servant leadership, accountability, the pitfalls of micromanagement, and the value of mentorship. Oak emphasizes the importance of trust, empathy, and communication in leadership roles. He shares personal anecdotes to illustrate how prioritizing team well-being and fostering a supportive environment are crucial. The episode...
Published 03/21/24
In this podcast episode, Gary Miles, a lawyer and author, discusses the necessity for lawyers to step out of their comfort zones to achieve growth. He shares his own journey, offers practical advice, and highlights the dangers of complacency in the legal field. Gary provides ten tips for expanding one's professional horizons and underscores the benefits of embracing challenges. He concludes by encouraging his listeners to pursue their passions and offers his support for those seeking to break...
Published 03/18/24
In this episode of the Free Lawyer podcast, general counsel Brittany Leonard discuss the pursuit of happiness and fulfillment in a legal career. Brittany shares her personal journey, emphasizing the importance of aligning career goals with personal well-being and happiness. She talks about the challenges of self-doubt and the importance of resilience, advocating for a healthy work environment and leadership that respects and supports team autonomy. The conversation also covers effective...
Published 03/14/24
In this podcast episode, legal veteran Gary Miles shares his insights on achieving contentment in the legal profession. With 45 years of experience, he discusses the challenges lawyers face, such as stress and high workloads, and offers 12 practical tools for finding joy and satisfaction in their careers. These include self-care, time management, and cultivating gratitude. Gary encourages lawyers to prioritize mental health and work-life balance and to seek support from mentors.  Benefits of...
Published 03/11/24
In this episode of "The Free Lawyer," host Gary interviews Brigitte MacDonald, a certified coach and former employment lawyer, about the unique challenges faced by legal professionals. Brigitte discusses the high-pressure, isolating, and competitive nature of the legal field, which often leads to stress and a loss of purpose. They explore how coaching can support lawyers in finding fulfillment, creating a sense of connection and teamwork, and accessing their creativity. Brigitte emphasizes...
Published 03/07/24
In this episode of "The Free Lawyer," host Gary Miles discusses the importance of finding fulfillment in one's law practice. He acknowledges the common challenges lawyers face, such as stress and burnout, and presents an eight-step process aimed at creating a more satisfying career. Gary emphasizes aligning work with personal values, building positive relationships, and practicing self-care. He highlights the benefits of a fulfilling career, including increased job satisfaction and better...
Published 03/04/24
In this episode, Gary interviews Kevin Davis, a seasoned medical professional and health coach. Kevin discusses his shift towards functional medicine, emphasizing the importance of identifying and treating the root causes of health issues rather than just symptoms. He advocates for resistance training and prioritizing protein intake to combat muscle loss with age. Kevin also highlights the significance of the four pillars of health—nutrition, exercise, sleep, and prayer—for managing stress...
Published 02/29/24