How to Embrace Failure and Build Resilience in Law feat. Neena Speer (August 2022)

Neena Speer, a published author, founder of a nonprofit, and solo
practitioner, joins Kyla to share how she built a purpose-driven
career rooted in mentorship, advocacy, and transparency. From
creating her nonprofit Step 1-2-3 to writing Dear Future Lawyer,
Neena opens up about the challenges of law school, embracing
failure, and the power of mentorship to create lasting change.
This episode is an inspiring look at how lawyers can turn their
personal experiences into impactful careers that align with their
values.





Lawyer Side Hustles


Neena’s side hustles reflect her commitment to mentorship and
storytelling, demonstrating how lawyers can channel their
passions into impactful projects. Her nonprofit, Step 1-2-3, was
born from a personal promise to remain a lifelong mentor to a
student she guided during a program that later lost contact with
her mentees. The program has since grown into a nationwide and
virtual initiative, connecting mentors and mentees across the
U.S. and even globally.
“I didn’t like red tape. I didn’t like being told no. So I
created my own nonprofit to make the impact I knew was possible,”
shares Neena Speer in Episode 178 of You Are a Lawyer.

Beyond her nonprofit, Neena’s side hustle as an author has had a
profound impact on minority female law students. Dear Future
Lawyer serves as both a survival guide and a source of
encouragement, addressing the unique challenges faced by minority
women in law school. By sharing her personal story and lessons
learned, Neena has created a platform that empowers others to
embrace authenticity and resilience in their legal journeys. Her
side hustles are deeply intertwined with her core mission of
mentorship and advocacy, proving that lawyers can create
meaningful, multifaceted careers.








LISTEN TO LEARN


How to transform your personal experiences into
purpose-driven projects

Why embracing failure and sharing your authentic story can
empower others and redefine your career

Actionable advice for creating mentorship programs that
foster meaningful, lasting connections






WE ALSO DISCUSS


Neena’s journey from law school to becoming an author,
nonprofit founder, and solo practitioner

The importance of finding your “why” in law school and how it
can shape your career

Practical tips for navigating challenges as a minority female
law student and lawyer






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Kyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast. 


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