Former Lawyer Blog Archive

12 May

Understanding Executive Functions in an ADHD Brain with Annie Little [TFLP267]

In this episode, Sarah sits down with returning guest Annie Little, a lawyer-turned-career coach and now a certified ADHD coach. They explore how executive function works in the ADHD brain—particularly for lawyers—and why so many high-achieving professionals struggle silently with things like time, organization, and burnout without realizing what’s really going on. Annie shares insights from her coaching work through…

5 May

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusivity are not the Problem in Biglaw [TFLP266]

There’s a dangerous narrative gaining traction, that diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives are to blame for what’s broken in Biglaw. For anyone who’s actually worked in that environment, the idea that there’s too much DEI is not just inaccurate, it’s laughable. Yes, Biglaw has problems. But DEI isn’t one of them. Biglaw’s Problems Run Deep, and They’re Not New…

28 Apr

When Tragedy Leads to Career Changes and Better Balance with Laura Markham [TFLP265]

In this episode of The Former Lawyer Podcast, Sarah is joined by Laura Markham, a member of the Collab and Collab Plus. Laura’s story is one of resilience, reevaluation, and ultimately, reimagining what a sustainable, values-aligned career looks like after unimaginable loss. Laura shares how the sudden death of her husband in 2023 forced a complete reassessment—not just of her…

21 Apr

It’s Okay If You’re Just Surviving Right Now [TFLP264]

If 2025 has already felt like a lot, you’re not alone. In this episode of The Former Lawyer Podcast, Sarah Cottrell offers a short but important reminder, if you’re just getting by right now, that’s okay. Based in the U.S., Sarah shares that the start of the year has been heavy. Between the news and the general state of things,…

14 Apr

What If You Don’t Want to Be a Lawyer Anymore? [TFLP263]

Have you ever found yourself wondering if being a lawyer is still the right path for you, but felt guilty or afraid to admit it? In this episode of The Former Lawyer Podcast, Sarah Cottrell tackles a topic that might sound obvious but is surprisingly difficult for many lawyers to accept: you’re allowed to change your mind. For people outside…

7 Apr

What to Do If You’re Sick of Complaining About Your Job [TFLP262]

If you feel like all you do is complain about your job, you’re not alone. Many lawyers reach a point where they’re exhausted, not just by their work, but by how much they talk about how miserable it makes them. In this episode of The Former Lawyer Podcast, Sarah Cottrell addresses what happens when you reach that breaking point. She…