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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Olivia “Liv” Ash, a lawyer, artist, author, and health educator, discusses how she blends creativity and advocacy to address loneliness and foster connection. As the founder of Liv Balanced, LLC and author of Painting the Landscape of Loneliness, Liv shares her journey of using art and research to inspire others to embrace vulnerability and self-expression. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of how lawyers can leverage their skills and passions to build meaningful, multidimensional careers.

Lawyer Side Hustles

Liv’s side hustles as a galleried abstract artist and author exemplify how lawyers can pursue creative passions while maintaining their professional careers. Her art, which is deeply personal and therapeutic, allows her to express emotions and explore themes of connection and isolation. Liv’s paintings are not only exhibited in galleries but also featured prominently in her projects, such as the cover of her book, Painting the Landscape of Loneliness.

In addition to her artistic endeavors, Liv is a published author whose book explores the epidemic of loneliness and provides strategies for building meaningful connections. She draws from her personal experiences, research, and professional expertise to offer readers a roadmap to self-discovery and healing. Through her side hustles, Liv proves that lawyers can use their skills and passions to create meaningful work that extends far beyond the legal field.

LISTEN TO LEARN

• How to identify and leverage your legal skills for opportunities outside of traditional practice.
• Why exploring non-traditional career paths can lead to greater fulfillment and alignment with your passions.
• Tips for navigating transitions and managing self-doubt during career changes.

WE ALSO DISCUSS

• Olivia’s personal journey from practicing law to finding a creative and fulfilling career.
• The importance of community and mentorship in career transitions.
• How to balance professional responsibilities with personal growth and exploration.

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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

Christine Job, a business strategist and podcast host, shares her inspiring journey of moving to Spain and creating a fulfilling life abroad. In this episode, Christine reveals how she helps women of color build businesses that support professional and financial wellness, and why living abroad can be a pathway to true personal growth. If you’ve ever dreamed of living internationally while pursuing your passions, this episode is packed with practical advice and inspiration.

Lawyer Side Hustles

Christine’s entrepreneurial journey began in law school when she explored business incubators and started consulting on the side. She discovered that lawyers are uniquely positioned to turn their expertise into thriving businesses by identifying their marketable skills and addressing client needs. Her work now focuses on helping women of color launch businesses abroad, blending her legal and strategic expertise.

Christine encourages lawyers to embrace non-traditional careers, whether through side hustles or full-time ventures. Her approach highlights the importance of aligning your passions with your expertise to create businesses that offer both personal fulfillment and financial freedom.

LISTEN TO LEARN

• How to build a business abroad using your existing expertise and marketable skills.
• Why professional fulfillment and financial wellness should guide your decisions when moving abroad.
• Tips for crafting a life abroad that aligns with your personal and professional goals.

WE ALSO DISCUSS

• Christine’s personal journey to Spain and how she transitioned to entrepreneurship.
• The importance of recognizing your accomplishments and trusting your instincts.
• How Christine’s podcast, Flourish in the Foreign, empowers women to tell their stories and embrace their own paths.

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