When Tragedy Leads to Career Changes and Better Balance with Laura Markham

Is DEI really the problem in Biglaw? Sarah doesn’t think so, and she’s not alone. In this episode, she breaks down why blaming diversity, equity, and inclusion for the profession’s longstanding issues is not only inaccurate, but dangerously out of touch. If you’re tired of the gaslighting and performative change in legal spaces, this conversation will help you feel seen, and remind you that you’re not imagining the disconnect between what firms say and how they actually operate.See show notes at formerlawyer.com/266

When Laura Markham suddenly lost her husband, everything changed—including how she viewed her legal career. In this episode, Laura shares her path from real estate litigation to finding a more flexible, values-aligned role after loss. She talks about parenting through grief, rethinking the billable hour, and how the Collab helped her reconnect with what she actually wanted from work and life. If you’ve been wondering whether it’s time for a change—or if you’re just trying to keep going during a hard season—Laura’s story will remind you that there’s no one “right” path forward, and going back to something familiar might just be the best next step. See show notes at formerlawyer.com/265

Feeling overwhelmed, unmotivated, or like you're barely keeping up? You’re not alone. In this episode, Sarah shares a simple but powerful reframe for lawyers who are just trying to make it through right now. If you’ve caught yourself saying you’re doing “the bare minimum,” this conversation will help you shift that narrative and offer yourself more grace. Whether you're thinking about leaving the law or just trying to get through the week, Sarah reminds us that surviving a hard season isn’t a failure—it’s a sign you’re human. If you’re struggling with what to prioritize, feeling stretched thin, or questioning your next steps, this episode is a grounding reminder that taking care of what’s essential is enough.See show notes at formerlawyer.com/264

Are you questioning whether practicing law is really the right path for you? You're not alone—and you're not wrong for feeling that way. In this episode, Sarah talks about why so many lawyers feel stuck in careers that no longer fit, and why changing your mind isn't a failure—it's a sign of growth.If you've ever felt guilty for wanting something different, or worried that shifting directions means you made a mistake, this conversation will help reframe those thoughts. Learn why it's normal to outgrow a legal career, and how to start thinking about what's next with more clarity and less pressure.See show notes at formerlawyer.com/263

If you feel like all you do is complain about your job, you’re not alone. Many lawyers reach a point where they’re exhausted, not just by their work, but by how much they talk about how miserable it makes them.In this episode of The Former Lawyer Podcast, Sarah Cottrell addresses what happens when you reach that breaking point. She explains why you don’t have to wait until you can leave your job to start making a change, and how taking small steps now can set you up for the future, whether you’re leaving in a few months or a few years.See show notes at formerlawyer.com/262

On today’s podcast, Sarah is chatting with a familiar guest who has been on the podcast several times. It’s her husband, Ed Cottrell. They met in law school and graduated at the same time. Ed’s path took a different route than Sarah’s, and he now works in the tech field after leaving law. Today's conversation explores the common interest of many lawyers Sarah speaks with to explore jobs in tech. If you’ve been curious about getting a tech job or want to learn more about Ed’s journey.See show notes at formerlawyer.com/261

Many lawyers contemplating leaving the profession assume the process is complicated. The reality? It’s actually very simple. But that doesn’t mean it’s easy. In this episode of The Former Lawyer Podcast, Sarah Cottrell breaks down the difference between something being simple but difficult versus complicated but easy, and how this applies to leaving the law. The truth is, figuring out what’s next isn’t complex, but doing the work to make a change is hard. That’s why she created The Former Lawyer Collab because even though the steps are clear, having support and guidance can make all the difference. See show notes at formerlawyer.com/260

If you’re thinking about leaving the law but feel stuck, ask yourself this question. Who are you waiting for permission from?Many lawyers aren’t just worried about logistics. They feel like they need approval. They worry about how their family, friends, or partner will react. They feel the need to justify their decision and have others validate that leaving is the right move.But the only permission you need is your own.See show notes at formerlawyer.com/259

Sarah Cottrell talks with Amisha DeYoung-Dominguez, a former lawyer who transitioned into public service, on this episode of The Former Lawyer Podcast.Amisha, now a congressional staffer, shares her winding journey through law school, legal aid, and government work—ultimately realizing that practicing law wasn’t the right fit. Her story highlights the struggle many lawyers face, the pressure to stay in the profession despite clear signs it isn’t working. Through The Former Lawyer Collab, Amisha found the clarity and support she needed to make the leap into a fulfilling new career.See show notes at formerlawyer.com/258

Many former lawyers who stepped away from their careers to be stay-at-home parents eventually find themselves wondering how to re-enter the workforce—without going back to practicing law. On this episode of The Former Lawyer Podcast, host Sarah Cottrell addresses this exact challenge, breaking down the key steps for making the transition while avoiding the pressure to return to legal practice.See show notes at formerlawyer.com/257