The Lawyers Escape Pod with Megan Smiley
Just because you value security, doesn't mean you can't be making a plan that will open up options for you in the future.
Megan Smiley is a former lawyer and the ultimate boss lady of The Lawyers Escape Pod. She helps closet creatives stuck in law ditch the corporate grind and launch businesses that align with their unique strengths, interests, and values so they can live life on their own terms. Through her podcast, Megan showcases inspiring lawyers who left the law and want to share their stories and advice to help others take the plunge.
Unlike me, Megan never really had strong career aspirations to become a lawyer. She went to law school because it’s what was next when you are good at school and want to be surrounded by other type-A, risk averse people. Although we both enjoyed law school, practicing law was a different story. Now that Megan has escaped she strives to show other lawyers that it is possible to move on to something they love without feeling like their stint in Biglaw was a waste of time (and money!).
Our 45-minute chat covered so many amazing hurdles. Navigating changes to your life plan -- like becoming a mom to twins my second year of law school -- was a big topic. Events I hadn’t planned for changed the trajectory of my legal career so being able to adapt and adjust was key.
Megan also asked questions about when and how I knew it was time to make a change and escape Biglaw. The answer is different for everyone, but for me it was about spending more time with my boys, time that didn’t involve dinner in my office over summary judgment exhibits.
The conversation just flowed from one part of my journey to the next and before I realized it, Megan had been right all along! Just because I no longer wanted to be a lawyer, didn’t mean the past 14 years was a waste of time. It was an amazing experience...it led me to the family, friends, and career I have today.
All transitions are scary, but wherever you are on the spectrum between knowing exactly what you want and not having a clue, I want to help you be proactive with your personal finances so you’re ready to make the changes you want when you are ready.
Upon wrapping up, Megan asked what one piece of advice would I have given myself or someone in a similar situation who is unhappy in Biglaw to help them get started down the right path?
The answer may surprise you because it has nothing to do with law at all! Listen to this episode in its entirety for the piece of advice PLUS check out other episodes featuring former lawyers with similarly inspiring stories.
