Why Mentorship Matters More Than Ever for New Lawyers, with Joseline Hardrick

Law school prepares students to think like lawyers, but it often leaves them without a clear picture of what comes next. Zack Glaser sits down with Jocelyn Hardrick to explore how mentorship, pipeline programs, and practical guidance can help first-generation and nontraditional students bridge the gap between legal education and real-world practice. They unpack the challenges students face when they lack exposure to legal careers, the importance of writing and bar preparation support, and how community and accountability shape confidence during the transition into the profession. The episode highlights how intentional mentorship and community support can reduce uncertainty, build confidence, and create clearer pathways into the legal profession. Listen to our other episodes on mentorship, mindset, and professional development. Episode #596 — The Athlete’s Mindset for Lawyers, with Jess Sargus Apple | Spotify | LTN Episode #592 — Client Care, Culture, and Character: A Framework for Great Leaders, with William O’Neal Apple | Spotify | LTN Episode #588 — Practice Smarter, Not Harder: 411 Tips for Modern Lawyers, with Jordan Couch Apple | Spotify | LTN Episode #576 — How Sponsorship, Empathy, and Failure Shape Great Leaders, with Michael Cohen Apple | Spotify | LTN Have thoughts about today’s episode? Join the conversation on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and X! If today's podcast resonates with you and you haven't read The Small Firm Roadmap Revisited yet, get the first chapter right now for free! Looking for help beyond the book? See if our coaching community is right for you. Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com. Links from the episode: https://www.journeytoesquire.com/ Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction 01:45 – Why the Path Into Law Isn’t Clear 06:10 – Meet Jocelyn Hardrick 08:25 – What Journey to Esquire Does 12:40 – First-Generation and Nontraditional Barriers 17:30 – Mentorship vs. Sponsorship 21:55 – Writing, Bar Prep, and Practical Skills 26:40 – Building Confidence Through Community 31:20 – Advice for New and Aspiring Lawyers 34:10 – Closing Thoughts