The Former Lawyer Podcast

The Former Lawyer Podcast

By Sarah Cottrell

Do you hate working as a lawyer? Are you an unhappy lawyer who wants to leave the law, but isn't sure what to do next? Do your family and friends think you're crazy for wanting to leave the law, or are you too afraid to tell them you don't want to be a lawyer? The Former Lawyer Podcast is for you! Each week, host Sarah Cottrell interviews a different former lawyer who has left the law behind. Hear inspiring stories about how these former lawyers are thriving and found their way to careers and lives they love.
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02/23/26

What Lawyers Wish They'd Asked Before Going to Law School

A lot of people end up going to law school without ever really asking themselves whether it's what they want to do. The questions in this episode are the real questions you should be asking yourself if you're considering law school. And if you're alr… Read more

02/16/26

Hard Things Feel Hard Because They Are Hard

2026 is kicking a lot of people's asses, including Sarah's. She gets into what the last few weeks have actually looked like, and shares the reminder she keeps coming back to. Hard things feel hard because they are hard. Not because you're doing anyth… Read more

02/09/26

Escaping the Legal Grind to Build a Balanced Life with Dan Branagan

When lawyers look back at why they entered the profession, they often find the answer is less about a lifelong passion and more about a lack of other plans. Dan Branagan, a former bankruptcy associate turned data analyst, describes his journey into l… Read more

02/02/26

How to Explore Your Career Options After Law with Patience and a Plan

When Sarah looks back at her time in practice, she can see a pattern that shows up for almost every lawyer who thinks about leaving the law. She would have a kernel of interest in a career path outside of the law, but her brain would immediately star… Read more

01/26/26

From Law School to Literary Agent with Lilly Ghahremani

Maybe you've thought about it. You love books, you love reading, and somewhere in the back of your mind, you've wondered if there's a way to turn that passion into a career that uses your legal skills without actually practicing law. Lilly Ghahremani… Read more

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