Podcast
Project Pivot
Hosted by Steve Pearce · EN
Welcome to Project Pivot - the podcast about legal professionals who have said goodbye to the burnout of ’always on’ legal hustle.
Hosted by Steve Pearce, a career coach who has dedicated himself to guiding lawyers through significant career changes, Project Pivot unlocks the secrets to transform your legal career. Hear from individuals who have boldly stepped away from BigLaw, forging new paths as entrepreneurs, psychotherapists, and educators. From candid conversations about the struggles of leaving the familiarity of “the firm” to the unexpected joys of embarking on a new journey, our guests lay it all out.
Each episode also contains practical advice which could well be the catalyst for your own career metamorphosis.
There’s no sugar-coating here, just real, relatable stories for anyone standing at the crossroads of their professional life. It’s a new year, it’s time to pivot.
7episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
The Truth About Burnout with Prof. Gordon Parker
Feb 17, 202400:31:52Tap to summarizeIn the final episode of Project Pivot, we explore the intricate topic of burnout with Australian psychiatrist, Professor Gordon Parker. The discussion shines a light on the critical role of personality as a predisposing risk factor, and reveals the many layers of burnout, and its causes. Professor Parker introduces the analogy of soil and seed to articulate the intricate relationship between the environment and burnout. Highlighting that burnout isn't a random occurrence and is often synonymous within the legal profession, where the demands for reliability and perfectionism are paramount. We hear how personality traits like dutifulness, reliability, and perfectionism can lead to burnout, and how strategies to cope should be seen as an opportunity for personal renewal. Key Takeaways: Personality Predisposition: Personality, specifically traits like dutifulness and perfectionism, emerges as a critical predisposing risk factor for burnout. Professions at Risk: Burnout finds a stronghold in caregiving professions and those that demand reliability and perfectionism, such as the legal profession. Warning Signs Unveiled: The episode explores warning signs of burnout, from emotional exhaustion to cognitive impairment, providing valuable insights for self-awareness. Opportunity in Burnout: Contrary to its negative connotations, burnout is reframed as an opportunity for renewal and a chance to reevaluate one's life and priorities. Tailored Treatment Strategies: The effectiveness of treatment strategies for burnout is explored, emphasising the need for a bespoke approach tailored to individual cases, addressing the personality component. Meet Professor Gordon Parker: Professor Parker is Scientia Professor of Psychiatry at the University of New South Wales, Australia. He was the founder and Executive Director of the Black Dog Institute from 2002-2011. He was, for nearly two decades, Head of the School of Psychiatry at UNSW and Director of the Division of Psychiatry at Prince of Wales and Prince Henry Hospitals. Professor Parker has an international research profile having published over 1,000 academic papers, 23 books and in 2004 was awarded a Citation Laureate as the Australian researcher most highly referenced in Psychiatry/Psychology. For more information about Professor Parker visit https://www.unsw.edu.au/staff/gordon-parker What does 2024 have in store for you? 20 Questions. 1 Minute. Take the FREE test and find out.
Transcribe →UHNW Clients, Being a Trustee and Going it Alone With Catherine Grum
Feb 9, 202400:40:15Tap to summarizeIn this episode, Catherine Grum shares the importance of building meaningful client relationships, the unique skill set required in her field, and the decision to embrace the autonomy and freedom of an independent career. Our conversation with Catherine delves into the nuances of her expertise, emphasising the blend of technical knowledge and relationship management crucial in private client and family office work. The episode unfolds the significance of cultivating strong connections with clients, providing a more personalised and impactful approach to their needs. As Catherine reflects on her transition to an independent career, she paints a picture of the autonomy and freedom it brings. We also hear about her role as a trustee at the Beacon Collaborative, and the rewarding experience of contributing to a cause and making a positive impact has had on her life. Key Takeaways: Specialised Skill Set: Private client and family office work demand a unique skill set, seamlessly combining technical expertise with the finesse of relationship management. The Power of Relationships: Building robust client relationships is not just a strategy; it's a critical element that allows for a more personalised and impactful approach in this field. Autonomy in Independence: Transitioning to an independent career opens doors to autonomy and freedom, creating a purposeful and fulfilling professional journey. Trustee Tales: Catherine shares insights into her role as a trustee at the Beacon Collaborative, highlighting the rewarding aspects of contributing to a cause and making a positive impact. Wealth and Happiness Dynamics: The complex relationship between wealth and happiness is explored, acknowledging that wealth brings both benefits and challenges to individuals and families. Meet Catherine Grum: Catherine advises families and family offices around family office establishment, strategy, family governance and succession. She believes that when families understand their values and the purpose of their wealth, they can build on much stronger foundations and, by aligning their structures and activities with this, create sustainable long-term solutions. Recent work has included advising on the governance and succession arrangements for a founder-led family office, facilitating family workshops and shareholder committees and supporting trustees to establish family governance arrangements. Now running her own consultancy, Catherine has worked with enterprising families for over 20 years, gaining a unique perspective from the combination of roles she has held including private client lawyer at A&O, wealth adviser at Barclays, head of a private office and sitting on the board of its international trust companies at Salamanca Group and establishing family office advisory practices at BDO and KPMG. For more information about Catherine visit https://www.catherinegrum.com What does 2024 have in store for you? 20 Questions. 1 Minute. Take the FREE test and find out.
Transcribe →From Lawyer to Teacher with Myles Preston
Feb 5, 202400:50:52Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Project Pivot, we hear about the transformative journey of Myles Preston, a seasoned commercial lawyer turned educator and vice principal. Myles candidly shares his motivations for leaving the legal realm and the challenges encountered in transitioning to the rewarding world of teaching. Swapping the corridors of law firms to the classrooms of education, we unpack the nuances of this unique career metamorphosis. Hear about the Teach First program and the cultural contrasts between schools and law firms. Myles shares insights into the intense but supportive and collegial culture within the education sector, and the transferable skills from the legal arena to assembly hall, including the art of drafting, negotiation prowess, and effective communication. Key Takeaways: Fulfilment in Transition: The shift from law to teaching proves to be a fulfilling career change, opening doors to new opportunities and challenges. Navigating Challenging Schools: Teaching in demanding environments requires the building of strong relationships with students and adaptability across diverse subjects. The Tapestry of School Culture: Schools offer an intense and relentless, yet supportive and collegial culture, creating a unique professional tapestry. Skills that Bridge Professions: Transferable skills from law, such as drafting, negotiation, and communication, find a new home in the field of education. Exploring the Classroom: For those contemplating a career in teaching, Myles suggests stepping into the classroom environment as a valuable first step. The Allure of Bristol: Bristol is seen as a sought-after location for lawyers seeking a better work-life balance. For more information about Myles visit - https://www.linkedin.com/in/myles-p-b478421a/ What does 2024 have in store for you? 20 Questions. 1 Minute. Take the FREE test and find out - https://stevenpearce.scoreapp.com
Transcribe →John-Paul Davies: From Lawyer to Psychotherapist
Jan 29, 202400:57:41Tap to summarizeIn the latest episode, John-Paul Davies shares the motivation that fuelled his transition from law to psychotherapy. Providing a glimpse into the challenges he faced as a legal professional, leading to his eventual exit from the profession. Hear about the emotional toll of imposter syndrome, and the symptoms that became the catalyst for his therapeutic exploration. Key Takeaways: The Courage to Pivot: Transitioning from one career to another demands self-reflection and the courage to embrace change. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: Imposter syndrome can impede growth, but self-acceptance and building a sense of worth can conquer its grip. Building a Therapeutic Haven: Success in therapy requires dedication, networking, and a nurturing environment. Recognising Burnout's Whisper: Identifying burnout symptoms is crucial for a healthier work-life balance and emotional well-being. The Balance Equation: Maintaining equilibrium between anxiety and stress, and fostering connection, excitement, love, and joy in relationships is pivotal for emotional wellbeing. Self-Awareness Illuminates Paths: Self-awareness emerges as a beacon, guiding the way to recognising and addressing burnout. Midlife Career Pivots: Major career shifts in late 20s and early 40s to early 50s signal a yearning for a more connected and fulfilling life. Beyond Material Success: True fulfilment and sustained happiness blossom from cultivating a connected relationship with oneself and others, transcending the pursuit of mere material success. Meet John-Paul Davies: John-Paul is a passionate advocate of a supportive network and the profound benefits of therapy in personal growth. He specialises in recognising burnout and advises on finding the delicate balance between anxiety and stress, and the vital elements of connection, excitement, love, and joy in relationships. For more information about John-Paul visit https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-paul-davies-30721330/ What does 2024 have in store for you? 20 Questions. 1 Minute. Take the FREE test and find out.
Transcribe →Founding Legaltech Hub with Nikki Shaver
Jan 22, 202400:32:32Tap to summarizeThis enlightening conversation with Nikki Shaver unravels her remarkable journey from practising law to navigating the dynamic realm of legal tech. Nikki's story is a testament to the fusion of legal expertise and technological innovation, that highlights the evolving landscape of the legal profession. In this episode, Nikki opens the door to her diverse career, from the intricacies of media law to becoming a champion of knowledge management. She sheds light on the pivotal role of technology in reshaping legal workflows, underlining its significance in today's fast-paced legal landscape. Key Takeaways: Tech-Powered Career Exploration: Legal tech opens exciting avenues for lawyers to explore unconventional career paths, leveraging technology to enhance legal workflows. The Rapid Evolution of Legal Tech: Riding the transformative wave of innovations, from generative AI to AI agents, revolutionising the very fabric of legal work. DIY Solutions for Legal Challenges: Nikki inspires lawyers with a passion for technology to be creators. Crafting your own tech solutions can address pressing issues within the legal industry. Big Firm to Startup Adventures: Nikki reflects on the challenges and rewards of transitioning from a big firm to a startup. The journey offers autonomy and the opportunity to build something unique. Nikki’s Vision: Nikki shares her goals and ambitions for the future. Her vision extends beyond the horizon of possibilities, encapsulating the endless potential that lies at the intersection of law and technology. Meet Nikki Shaver: As the founder of Legaltech Hub, Nikki takes us on her entrepreneurial adventure. She discusses the thrill of the legal tech ecosystem's evolution, spotlighting game-changers like generative AI and AI agents. Nikki encourages fellow legal minds to embrace technology, envisioning a future where lawyers not only adapt to tech but actively contribute by crafting their own innovative solutions. For more information about Nikki visit https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicola-shaver What does 2024 have in store for you? 20 Questions. 1 Minute. Take the FREE test and find out.
Transcribe →Starting A New Law Firm with Chris Bridges
Jan 14, 202400:44:18Tap to summarizeIn this episode, Chris Bridges discusses his journey from working in a traditional law firm to starting his own. He talks about the challenges he faced in a large organisation and the desire for more variety and agility. He shares his experience as a tech lawyer, his leap into tech law, and the creation of a law journal – because who doesn’t love a good side project? Hear the factors that led him to start Tacit Legal and his growth plan for the future, the importance of work-life balance and a sprinkling of advice for those considering starting their own business. Key Takeaways: Corporate Jungle vs. Independent Freedom: Chris highlights the challenges of the slow corporate pace and limited agility in large organisations. The craving for variety and agility led him to forge his own path. Tech Law Delights: As a tech lawyer, Chris shares the joy of working with both tech clients and big corporates buying tech. His journey is a testament to the dynamic landscape of technology and law. Beyond Law: Starting a law journal became Chris’s fulfilling side project, allowing him to explore interests beyond traditional law. It’s a reminder that our careers can be as diverse as we want them to be. Transition Trials: Transitioning from a traditional law firm to a new role brings challenges and growth opportunities. Chris gives a sneak peek into the inner-workings of this transformational phase. Firm Foundations: Starting a new firm isn’t a walk in the park. Chris explains the importance of careful planning, target market consideration, and a growth strategy for a successful venture. Meet Chris Bridges: Beyond being a tech solicitor, Chris boasts a portfolio career in application engineering and change management, bringing a unique perspective to his role at Tacit Legal. A problem fixer by nature, he champions simplicity, transparency, and a client-centric approach. His hands-on tech background shines in his role as Chief Operating Officer, where he steers the ship by simplifying processes, embracing technology, and ensuring a frictionless journey for clients. For more information about Chris visit Tacit Legal What does 2024 have in store for you? 20 Questions. 1 Minute. Take the FREE test and find out.
Transcribe →Trailer
Jan 14, 202400:01:19Tap to summarizeWelcome to Project Pivot - the podcast about legal professionals who have said goodbye to the burnout of 'always on' legal hustle. Hosted by Steve Pearce, a career coach who has dedicated himself to guiding lawyers through significant career changes, Project Pivot unlocks the secrets to transform your legal career. Hear from individuals who have boldly stepped away from BigLaw, forging new paths as entrepreneurs, psychotherapists, and educators. From candid conversations about the struggles of leaving the familiarity of “the firm” to the unexpected joys of embarking on a new journey, our guests lay it all out. Each episode also contains practical advice which could well be the catalyst for your own career metamorphosis. There's no sugar-coating here, just real, relatable stories for anyone standing at the crossroads of their professional life. It’s a new year, it’s time to pivot. What does 2024 have in store for you? 20 Questions. 1 Minute. Take the FREE test and find out.
Transcribe →