In this episode of Legal Chutney, I sat down with Danielle Thompson, a Columbia Law graduate and legal recruiter, for an honest conversation about one of the most overlooked challenges in the legal field: mental health. We unpacked the intense pressures of law school and legal practice, explored how grades and performance often become tied to self-worth, and discussed how these expectations can take a lasting toll over time.
Danielle shared candid insights from both her academic and professional experiences, emphasizing the importance of community, mentorship, and asking for support. We also talked through practical strategies for managing stress, protecting mental well-being, and redefining success in a profession that often glorifies burnout. Throughout the conversation, Danielle reminded listeners that mental health isn’t a linear journey and that fulfillment in a legal career is possible without sacrificing yourself along the way.
💡 We covered:
Danielle's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/the-lawyer-doula/
