Neena Speer, a published author, founder of a nonprofit, and solo practitioner, joins Kyla to share how she built a purpose-driven career rooted in mentorship, advocacy, and transparency. From creating her nonprofit Step 1-2-3 to writing Dear Future Lawyer, Neena opens up about the challenges of law school, embracing failure, and the power of mentorship to create lasting change. This episode is an inspiring look at how lawyers can turn their personal experiences into impactful careers that align with their values.

Lawyer Side Hustles

Neena’s side hustles reflect her commitment to mentorship and storytelling, demonstrating how lawyers can channel their passions into impactful projects. Her nonprofit, Step 1-2-3, was born from a personal promise to remain a lifelong mentor to a student she guided during a program that later lost contact with her mentees. The program has since grown into a nationwide and virtual initiative, connecting mentors and mentees across the U.S. and even globally.

Beyond her nonprofit, Neena’s side hustle as an author has had a profound impact on minority female law students. Dear Future Lawyer serves as both a survival guide and a source of encouragement, addressing the unique challenges faced by minority women in law school. By sharing her personal story and lessons learned, Neena has created a platform that empowers others to embrace authenticity and resilience in their legal journeys. Her side hustles are deeply intertwined with her core mission of mentorship and advocacy, proving that lawyers can create meaningful, multifaceted careers.

LISTEN TO LEARN

• How to transform your personal experiences into purpose-driven projects
• Why embracing failure and sharing your authentic story can empower others and redefine your career
• Actionable advice for creating mentorship programs that foster meaningful, lasting connections

WE ALSO DISCUSS

• Neena’s journey from law school to becoming an author, nonprofit founder, and solo practitioner
• The importance of finding your “why” in law school and how it can shape your career
• Practical tips for navigating challenges as a minority female law student and lawyer

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Kyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast.

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