Episode 147-Your Legal Career: If It’s Broke, Fix It or Move On?
Counsel to Counsel - Career Advice for Lawyers
Release Date: 01/07/2025
Counsel to Counsel - Career Advice for Lawyers
We are taking a pause until mid-late January 2026 for some upgrades. We are adding a YouTube feed to our mix for listeners who prefer video and we are lining up some great guests to talk to you about your legal career. We are grateful to our listeners and guests who have made Counsel to Counsel a labor of love. Until then, best wishes for a happy and healthy New Year!
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In this episode, Steve speaks with , an immigration lawyer based in the Bay Area, about how introverted lawyers can build thriving practices without pretending to be extroverts. A self-proclaimed introvert and creative marketer, Saja shares how she transformed networking anxiety into authentic relationship-building through her “Wallflower Power” approach and how coaching and ProVisors played key roles in her success. Topics Discussed How hiring a coach in 2018 helped shifted her mindset from isolation to confident business owner. The role of ProVisors and the pandemic’s move...
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In this episode of Counsel to Counsel, Stephen Seckler speaks with Steve Herman, a civil litigator and documentary filmmaker from Vancouver, Canada. After more than 35 years in practice, Steve turned the camera on himself to explore one of the biggest transitions lawyers face—retirement. His film, Retirement on Trial, which he produced with his filmmaker wife, Evelyn Neaman, uses humor and introspection to examine what it means to step away from a career that has long defined one’s identity. In this episode, Steve Seckler speaks with Steve about his journey in making the film Through...
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In this episode of Counsel to Counsel, I reflect on some of the themes of the Jewish New Year and the importance of self reflection (and the fact that you get to do it twice a year if you happen to be Jewish!)
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Publishing a book may feel like an overwhelming project, but for lawyers it can be one of the most effective ways to build credibility, attract new clients, and open doors to new opportunities. In this episode of Counsel to Counsel, host Stephen Seckler speaks with , publisher and book marketing strategist, about how attorneys can transform their expertise into a powerful marketing asset. Melanie draws on her diverse career in journalism, PR, entrepreneurship, and publishing to explain: Why publishing a book can significantly enhance your visibility and authority as a lawyer Common myths...
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Many lawyers are clear about what they don’t want in their career. But they struggle to define what they do want. In this episode of Counsel to Counsel, Steve Seckler speaks with , former Biglaw associate, communications consultant, coach, and author of . Philippe shares insights from his own career journey—spanning Biglaw, corporate communications, solo coaching, authorship, and now his current role with the Career Design team at Latham & Watkins. He explains why career clarity is often so elusive, how lawyers can expand their range of possibilities, and why “freedom”...
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In this episode of Counsel to Counsel, Steve Seckler speaks with attorney, entrepreneur, and legal business strategist , founder of The Success Partner, about how law firms can navigate the generational handoff in leadership. As founding partners prepare to step back, younger attorneys are stepping up—bringing fresh perspectives on technology, especially AI, and new expectations for work-life balance, flexibility, and firm culture. Steve and Daya explore The tensions and opportunities between senior and next-generation lawyers Succession planning strategies that work (and those...
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Artificial intelligence is dramatically changing how legal services are marketed—and how clients find lawyers. In this episode, Steve Seckler speaks with Annie Stern, a seasoned digital marketing strategist, about what lawyers need to know to stay relevant in the AI era. Key Takeaways: AI tools like ChatGPT are reshaping how clients discover and vet lawyers, including those who rely heavily on referrals. A strong digital footprint—updated bios, accurate directories, and mentions on reputable sites—is now critical for visibility. Traditional SEO isn’t dead but must be complemented...
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As lawyers, we are trained to analyze, critique, and mitigate risk — all essential skills in practice. But when we bring that same mindset into our everyday conversations, we can unintentionally undermine connection and trust. In this episode, Stephen Seckler explores how the habits that make us successful advocates can backfire in networking, business development, and even personal relationships. Stephen breaks down some of the most common communication traps lawyers fall into: Leading with skepticism instead of curiosity Listening to respond instead of truly listening to understand...
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In this solo episode, attorney Stephen Seckler reflects on the importance of building small, consistent habits—both for professional success and personal wellbeing. Drawing on his own efforts to reduce news and screen time, improve sleep hygiene, and maintain dental health, Stephen underscores how selfcare routines can create calm and clarity in stressful times. He also highlights how the same principle applies to business development: splashy efforts are no substitute for consistent outreach and visibility. Whether it's connecting with referral sources, posting on LinkedIn, or attending...
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In this episode of Counsel to Counsel, host Stephen Seckler is joined by Susanne Aronowitz, a senior consultant with Beard Strategies and a Professional Certified Coach, to discuss career transitions and job satisfaction for lawyers. Susanne shares her journey from employment attorney to career coach, offering insights drawn from her 25 years of experience. Together, they explore how lawyers can address career dissatisfaction, identify whether issues are fixable within their current role, and recognize when it’s time to move on. Susanne also provides actionable advice on navigating involuntary job loss, reframing layoffs as opportunities for growth, and leveraging networking for successful transitions.
The conversation covers strategies for improving job satisfaction, such as proposing changes to employers, adjusting responsibilities, and exploring complementary practice areas. Susanne highlights the importance of self-care and managing negative self-talk during career transitions, as well as practical steps for processing emotions and maintaining professionalism in the face of job loss. Packed with valuable tips and inspiring success stories, this episode offers a roadmap for lawyers seeking fulfillment and balance in their careers. Don’t miss Susanne’s expert guidance on turning challenges into opportunities! For more information, visit Susanne's website or contact her directly.
Additional Resources
- Strategies for Prioritizing Well-Being in Attorney Job Searches and Career Development
- Episode 142-Winning in Your Own Court with Dena Lefkowitz
- Episode 135-Tackling Mental Health Issues in the Law with Amy Levine and LCL
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