PODCAST · education
Non-Billable Hours
by odetteansell
Welcome to the podcast about being a lawyer that has nothing to do with the practice of law. Join us, won’t you?The Legal Stuff (because obviously): This podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. This is a podcast by a lawyer, for lawyers. But I am not *your* lawyer. I’m also not your therapist, your finance professional, or your personal life coach. Nothing in this podcast should be considered legal advice, and any suggestions or recommendations that you decide to follow through with... those are on you my friend. This podcast is meant to be a place where we can talk openly and candidly about life as lawyers, but at the end of the day, you are the one making your own decisions. Perhaps we can help you make some better ones. We are not liable for any choices you make. But you probably already knew that. Theme Song: Jessie Reid- Madgrical (Artlist)
Episodes
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From Harvard to Big Law to Healing: A Lawyer’s Journey into Lightwork and AI
What if the traits law school rewards the least are the ones that make you exceptional? Marcia Narine Weldon says the future of law belongs to lawyers who can think clearly, stay human, and build a life that is bigger than their title. In this conversation, Odette talks with Marcia about the...
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Lawyer turned Mediator Discusses Balance, Burnout, and Finding Meaning Outside of your Job
Host Odette speaks with Paul Lo Presti, a former civil litigator turned mediator and arbitrator, about a 30+ year legal career. They discuss career transitions, the business of law, mentorship, the impact of virtual practice on training and mediation, and the importance of work–life balance. Paul...
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Why Bay Street Felt Broken From the Inside, With "Black on Bay Street" Author, Dr. Hadiya Roderique
The legal hiring system is rigged for similarity, not talent - and Dr. Hadiya Roderique, J.D./Ph.D. has lived (and studied) that reality. Odette sits down with Hadiya, a self-described recovering lawyer, journalist, Assistant Professor at the University of Toronto, and the writer behind the viral...
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The Case Against Constant Self-Optimization: Live Beyond Efficiency
Why do so many successful professionals feel like they are constantly achieving yet somehow missing out on life? In this episode, host and litigator Odette explores the hidden cost of modern productivity culture and the growing pressure to optimize every moment of our lives. Drawing on her...
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Life Is an Ultramarathon — Not a Sprint: Lessons for Lawyers
What does running a 50-kilometre ultramarathon have to do with practicing law? More than you might think. In this solo episode, host Odette reflects on her experience completing her first ultramarathon and the surprising parallels between endurance running and building a legal career. While law...
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Becoming a Recruiter after Law School & Building a Meaningful Career
What happens when you go to law school… but don’t actually want to be a lawyer? In this episode of Non-Billable Hours, I sit down with Travis Usher - law student turned legal recruiter - to talk about unconventional legal careers, identity outside the law, and building a career on your own terms....
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What Happens When You Realize Practicing Law Isn’t Your Passion? with Jordan Nahmias
Ever wonder why so many people become lawyers - even when they’re not passionate about practicing law? In this episode of The Non-Billable Hours Podcast, I sit down with former entertainment lawyer and current creative entrepreneur Jordan Nahmias to talk about the path that led him into law, why...
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Divorce Without War: Family Law Mediation and how to Lessen Litigation Stress with Mardi Chadwick-Balcom
What if family law didn’t leave people more broken than when they started—but actually helped them move forward? I recently had a conversation with Mardi Chadwick-Balcom on the Non-Billable Hours Podcast that challenged a lot of assumptions about how we practice family law. Mardi is a family law...
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Why Lawyers Feel So Overwhelmed— Mindfulness, Meditation, and Combating Perfectionism (with Claire E. Parsons)
Mindfulness, stress management, and practical tools to avoid burnout in a legal career In this episode Odette interviews Claire E. Parsons, a practicing school lawyer, mindfulness teacher, and author of How to Be a Badass Lawyer. Claire shares how she began meditating one minute at a time during…
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The Hidden Reason High Achievers Can’t Switch Off - Why You're Always Stressed (and don't know why)
Host Odette interviews Hannah O'Donovan about shutting down a multi‑six‑figure business after severe burnout and rebuilding a life and business rooted in nervous system regulation, somatic practices, and aligned ambition. They discuss signs of burnout, practical tools (orienting, breathwork,...
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She Left Practicing Law to Start a Magazine for Lawyers — Almost 20 Years Later It’s Still Thriving
What happens when a successful lawyer leaves practice to build something new? Melissa Kluger shares how she transitioned from law to launching Precedent Magazine, now thriving nearly *20* years later. Melissa Kluger is the Publisher and CEO of Law & Style Media Inc. and the creator of Precedent...
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What Happens When You Fire Yourself? How Minnesota Lawyer, Patrick Patino, Builds Community and Finds Joy in His Profession
Burned out from practicing law? You’re not alone. Former bankruptcy lawyer Patrick Patino shares how repeated burnout pushed him to “fire himself” and completely redefine life as a lawyer. Host Patrick Patino of The Newfangled Lawyer shares his journey from burning out practicing bankruptcy law…
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Lawyer Mental Health: Navigating Court and Client Work During Grief
In this week's solo episode, Odette speaks candidly about experiencing grief while working—covering when to ask for leave, how to tell a trusted colleague, managing deadlines, and accepting that your best may look different during this time. Compassionate, practical guidance for lawyers, law...
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From Big Law & Burnout to Powerhouse Entrepreneur: Erin Gerner’s Reinvention
Host Odette interviews Erin Gerner about her journey from big law and in-house roles to founding Powerhouse Lawyers and launching the Powerhouse Lawyers podcast. Erin shares candid stories about burnout, motherhood, and the moment she chose a different path. The episode focuses on practical…
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Watercolours, Triathlons, and Trials: How This Californian Public Defender Seeks Balance
Public defender Andrea Diaz shares her journey from a background in philosophy and studying law at UC Irvine Law School to working in the Los Angeles County Public Defender's Office, finding creative balance through watercolouring, writing and illustrating a children’s book (Jury Trial ABC), and...
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From M&A to Pura Vida: A Lawyer's Escape from Burnout
After a high-pressure career in mergers and acquisitions and a subsequent burnout during the pandemic, Marie Sirois left law to rebuild her life in Costa Rica. She now blends neuroscience-backed coaching with practical strategies to help high-achieving professionals set boundaries, reduce…
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Practicing Law, Pausing for Fatherhood, and Relicencing in a New Country: One Lawyer's Inspiring Story
Criminal defense attorney Sim Peter reflects on over a decade in the courtroom, the burnout that pushed him to step back, and the family-first move from the United States to Canada that transformed his priorities. He discusses the importance of the presumption of innocence, the pressure of...
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Winning in the Court Room and on the Catwalk: This Lawyer Refuses to be Pigeon-Holed
In this episode, Odette sits down with the dynamic Heather Reese — a personal injury lawyer, model, and content creator — to have a powerful conversation about breaking barriers and embracing every facet of your identity. Come join as we talk about the realities of being a woman in a…
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Unleashing Courage: Brandy's Journey Into Wellness Advocate, Motivational Speaker, and Yes, Powerhouse Lawyer
Please consider giving us a rating and a comment! It helps this small podcast grow so we can keep on providing more valuable content! :) In this episode of the Non-Billable Hours podcast, host Odette sits down with Brandy Wilson Edwards, a dynamic attorney and motivational speaker from Texas....
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A New Chapter: Making Partner, then Leaving the Law To Build Her Empire
In this episode of Non-Billable Hours, we welcome Aman Costigan, a former lawyer and law firm partner who has transformed into a life strategist and co-host of the podcast Marriage with Intention. Aman candidly shares her journey from law school to practicing law and eventually becoming a…
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Breaking the Norm: Following a Non-Traditional Path To a Non-Law Job before Returning to Practice
In this episode of Non-Billable Hours, Odette welcomes Katharine Brickman- Miller, a fellow Western Law alumna with a unique professional journey. Despite not practicing law for four years, Katharine shares how her diverse experiences ultimately made her a better lawyer. Join the insightful...
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Breaking In: Finding Fulfillment in Technology Law as a First-Gen Woman
In this episode of Non-Billable Hours, host Odette welcomes the brilliant and hilarious Maleeha Akhtar, a Canadian technology lawyer, who shares her unexpected journey into the legal field. Maleeha discusses her path from business school to law, the challenges of breaking into a predominantly…
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From Burnt Out Litigator to Fulfilled Yoga Instructor: Yana Banzen's Journey to Om
Join Odette as she welcomes Yana Banzen, a former litigator turned yoga instructor, to discuss her incredible journey of transformation. In this episode, Yana shares her story of leaving a high-pressure legal career to embrace a life focused on wellness and self-discovery. She opens up about the...
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Breaking Free: Crafting a Career Beyond Legal Boundaries with Susannah Margison
Welcome to the Non-Billable Hours Podcast, the go-to show for lawyers interested in life beyond the courtroom. In this episode, host Odette sits down with Susannah Margison, a lawyer turned strategic advisor. With nearly 15 years of experience, Susannah has transitioned from traditional law to...
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Unlocking Mental Wellness: Why Every Legal Professional Needs Therapy Part 2
Welcome to Part 2 of our talk on therapy! In this episode, we’re getting real about something that doesn’t get talked about enough—therapy in the legal world. If you’re a lawyer, law student, or articling student, you know how tough this field can be. I open up about my own journey and share some...
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Why Every Lawyer Needs Therapy (Part 1- Video Version)
This is exciting! We have re-recorded our most popular episode to date as a video podcast, as well as this audio version for you to listen to if you are on the go: Therapy Part 1 I've said it before and I'll say it again. Yes, you need this conversation and no, being a lawyer doesn't mean you...
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Uncharted Journeys: One Lawyer's Globe-Trotting Adventures (& other stories)
In this episode, Carolyn shares her recent journey to the untouched wonders of the Galapagos Islands, where she immersed herself in the unique wildlife and landscapes. Through lively discussions, Carolyn and Odette explore the intricacies of balancing a high-pressure legal career with a desire…
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Breaking Stereotypes in the Legal Industry (& Our First Video Podcast!)
Welcome to the first video episode of the Non-Billable Hours Podcast! In this exciting debut, Odette sits down with Carolyn McKeen, a brilliant litigator and one of Odette's law school classmates, to chat law school litigation competitions, discuss Carolyn's transition from public health to law,...
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Mastering Self-Care Amidst Chaos: A Lawyer's Practical Guide
When life and work seem overwhelmingly busy, it can be hard to even take little moments to take care of ourselves. Today I want to share some genuine, practical reminders for maintaining mental and physical well-being amidst chaotic work schedules. Learn how small efforts can yield significant...
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Breaking Free of Expectations as a Lawyer: Living Life on Your Own Terms
Welcome back to Non-Billable Hours! In this episode, we explore the challenges and triumphs of ignoring external opinions and embracing one's true desires. As lawyers and law students, we are so good, almost too good, at following directions, instructions, and looking to others for approval…
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Embracing Failure: It's Scary & The Only Way to Grow
Hiya pals! Welcome back. Today we dive into the challenging topic of failure and its crucial role in personal and professional growth. Discover why seeking out failure can lead to success and resilience, especially for lawyers who often avoid it. We'll discuss the importance of embracing setbacks...
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Surviving the Trials Pt 2: Your Self-Care Toolkit for Court
As lawyers, we all know that trial is a different beast. Those of us who have been lucky (??) enough to go to trial or a hearing understand that it’s not your everyday. And it can definitely take over your life. Even someone with the best work-life balance (whatever that means) can have a hard…
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Escaping Lifestyle Creep: A Lawyer's Journey to Financial Awareness
Part 4 of our financial mini-series already! This week, we get into the concept of lifestyle creep - a sneaky phenomenon that can derail your financial goals. Fittingly, I edited this podcast episode from a location I had no intention of traveling to when I left my home a few weeks ago. And the...
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Overcoming Catastrophic Thinking (Hey lawyer, it's okay we all do it!)
Welcome back! And welcome to a new year. Hello 2025! I hope it was a joyful holiday season for each of you. If you just got through it and survived, then congratulations on surviving! That's amazing and you should be proud. And now, I invite you to join me as we dive into the practice of "best…
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Therapy for Lawyers: Yes You Need It
In this season finale of the Non-Billable Hours Podcast, we get into a topic extremely close to my heart: therapy and mental health. Yes, you need this conversation and no, being a lawyer doesn't mean you aren't a whole emotional being with complex needs. We emphasize the importance of therapy in...
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Work From Home in 2024: WFH & You, A Dream Come True
Welcome back to "Non-Billible Hours," hosted by Odette, your friendly neighborhood lawyer and hype girl. In this episode, Odette explores the modern work-from-home landscape, offering practical tips and insights to enhance your remote working experience. Whether you're a seasoned pro or new to…
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Mastering Personal Finance Part 3: You. Your Debt. A Plan.
Welcome back to "Non-Billable Hours," the podcast where we tackle issues relevant to lawyers, law students, and as it turns out, many non-lawyers too! In this episode, we dive into the third part of our personal finance mini-series, and part two of focusing on debt repayment strategies. But…
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Mastering Personal Finance Part 2: Start Tackling Your Debt For Good
Welcome back to "Non-Billable Hours" and our second Episode on our Mini-Series on Personal Finances. In this episode, we dive deep into a topic that many of us shy away from—debt. From student loans to credit card debt, it's something most professionals, especially lawyers, grapple with. But fear...
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Navigating Trial Season: Eating for Success! (And to avoid the ER)
For litigators, trial is usually the highest stakes thing we can do. Doing well at trial can be amazing for your career, good for your self esteem, and tell you that your imposter syndrome is a big ol’ liar, (at least… for a little bit). And because it’s such a big deal, there is a tendency to...
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The Importance of Taking a Real Vacation: Lawyer Edition
Welcome back to the podcast, dear friends, both new and old! Today's episode is a must-listen as we delve into the importance of taking a true vacation, especially for those in the legal profession. With the summer season winding down, many of us are reflecting on our vacation time—used or…
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Mastering Personal Finances Part 1: A Lawyer's Guide to Budgeting
Welcome to the first episode of our mini-series on personal finance for lawyers. We’re lawyers! We don’t need a budget; we are just naturally good at keeping track of our spending. We’re lawyers! We don’t need a budget; because we excelled in law school, we excel in other parts of our life…
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The Lawyer's Guide to Better Sleep: Why Sleep Hygiene is Crucial and How To Do It
Sleep. Everybody needs it. Everybody does it. But a lot of us are bad at it. Do you feel called out? If so, you probably need this episode. In this episode, we focus on sleep hygiene and its critical role in improving your health, job performance, and overall well-being. We'll discuss how sleep...
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Hi! (An Intro)
It's me.
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Quick Adventures: Half-Day to Two-Day Getaways for Busy Lives
Welcome back to the podcast! In this fun episode, we dive into the world of short adventures and date ideas that can be enjoyed solo, with friends, or family. Perfect for those with busy schedules, these half-day to two-day getaways are designed to bring joy and relaxation into your everyday life...
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Embracing Imperfection: A Lawyer's Journey to Self-Compassion & Progress
In this candid episode, the host shares a personal conversation about perfectionism and the importance of self-compassion, especially for lawyers and law students. The discussion highlights how the drive for perfection can be both a motivator and a source of deep stress, impacting professional…
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Rediscovering the Joy of Hobbies: A Lawyer's Guide to Non-Billable Bliss
Welcome to the first episode of Non-Billable Hours, the podcast that offers lawyers and law students some much-needed TLC in their non-billable lives. In this debut episode, we delve into the significance of hobbies, particularly those unrelated to law. Join us as we explore the host's personal...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Welcome to the podcast about being a lawyer that has nothing to do with the practice of law. Join us, won’t you?The Legal Stuff (because obviously): This podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. This is a podcast by a lawyer, for lawyers. But I am not *your* lawyer. I’m also not your therapist, your finance professional, or your personal life coach. Nothing in this podcast should be considered legal advice, and any suggestions or recommendations that you decide to follow through with... those are on you my friend. This podcast is meant to be a place where we can talk openly and candidly about life as lawyers, but at the end of the day, you are the one making your own decisions. Perhaps we can help you make some better ones. We are not liable for any choices you make. But you probably already knew that. Theme Song: Jessie Reid- Madgrical (Artlist)
HOSTED BY
odetteansell
CATEGORIES
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Non-Billable Hours have?
Non-Billable Hours currently has 46 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Non-Billable Hours about?
Welcome to the podcast about being a lawyer that has nothing to do with the practice of law. Join us, won’t you?The Legal Stuff (because obviously): This podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. This is a podcast by a lawyer, for lawyers. But I am not *your* lawyer. I’m also...
How often does Non-Billable Hours release new episodes?
Non-Billable Hours has 46 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to Non-Billable Hours?
You can listen to Non-Billable Hours on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Non-Billable Hours?
Non-Billable Hours is created and hosted by odetteansell.
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