Behind the Bar – Lawyer Launcher
Real advice from real experience — the things law school never told you.

In this episode, Susan sits down with retired business lawyer and former managing partner Murray Gottheil, known for his frank, funny, and refreshingly honest insights about the legal profession. From the “safety of retirement,” Murray shares the truths he wishes he’d known earlier — and the hard lessons he believes every law student, summer student, and new associate needs to hear before starting in a law firm.

Together, Susan and Murray break down:

The biggest mistakes new lawyers make

• Why confidence and self-awareness matter more than you think
  
  
  
• How introverts (and extroverts!) can set themselves up to succeed
  
  
  
• What “ownership mentality” really looks like — and why partners value it
  
  
  
• How to ask better questions without driving your supervising lawyer crazy
  
  
  

The hard truths about starting your legal career

• You know far less than you think after graduation — and that’s normal
  
  
  
• Why legal success isn’t about hard work alone
  
  
  
• The reality of learning outside billable time
  
  
  
• How culture varies between firms, offices, and practice groups
  
  
  
• Why defining your own version of success is essential for long-term health
  
  
  

Murray also shares stories from decades in practice — from articling in the 80s, to hiring students, to mentoring young lawyers — with practical, actionable advice to help you thrive, not just survive.

If you’re preparing for summering, articling, or your first year of practice, this episode will give you the insight (and perspective) you won't find in textbooks.

Listen now and start building the leadership habits your future self will thank you for.

Don’t forget to subscribe to Lawyer Launcher for more episodes that help you thrive in the legal profession.

Episode notes:

Law & Disorder Inc: https://www.murraygottheil.com/

Murray Gottheil LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/murray-gottheil-58787b1/