In this inspiring episode of Lighting the Legal Career Path, host Erica Moore-Burton sits down with powerhouse attorney and community advocate Shardé Skahan for a candid conversation on leadership, purpose, and resilience.
Together, they explore what it truly means to have the courage to lead, especially as a Black woman navigating the legal field in today's climate. Shardé opens up about the unique challenges Black female lawyers face and how she continues to rise with authenticity, strength, and a commitment to service.
They also discuss the transformative power of relationships, not just networking in the traditional sense, but building intentional, supportive connections that can shape and sustain your career. Shardé reflects on how joining professional organizations has not only opened doors but also provided a community of peers who understand the journey they are on.
She also shares what it means to lead an organization focused on giving back, and how that work reflects her deeper purpose beyond the courtroom.
This episode is packed with insight, encouragement, and wisdom for anyone striving to lead with impact and integrity in the legal profession and beyond.
Check out Shardé’s favorite book: Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents by Isabel Wilkerson
Shardé Skahan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shardeskahan/
Erica Moore-Burton: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericamooreburton/
Round Hill Search: www.roundhillsearch.com
“You can ask, and the worst they can say is ‘no’.”
In this episode of Lighting the Legal Career Path, host Erica Moore-Burton sits down with attorney and entrepreneur, Cynthia Grande, to explore her journey from traditional legal practice to building a business rooted in purpose.
Cynthia shares what it means to pursue goals that stay true to one’s values, the power of surrounding yourself with the right people, and how her deep connection to community shaped the direction of her career. She also reflects on navigating the legal space as a member of an underrepresented group and her mission to inspire others to view immigration through a lens of empathy and humanity. This conversation offers practical wisdom for legal professionals charting their own unique career paths while staying grounded in service and authenticity.
Check out Cynthia’s most impactful book: The Giver, by Lois Lowry
Cynthia Grande: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cynthiagrande/
Erica Moore-Burton: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericamooreburton/
Round Hill Search: www.roundhillsearch.com
“This is the true joy in life, being used for a purpose recognized by yourself as a mighty one. Being a force of nature instead of a feverish, selfish little clod of ailments and grievances, complaining that the world will not devote itself to making you happy. I am of the opinion that my life belongs to the whole community and as long as I live, it is my privilege to do for it what I can. I want to be thoroughly used up when I die, for the harder I work, the more I live. I rejoice in life for its own sake. Life is no brief candle to me. It is a sort of splendid torch which I have got hold of for the moment and I want to make it burn as brightly as possible before handing it on to future generations.”― George Bernard Shaw
In this episode, Erica Moore-Burton sits down with Temitayo “Ope” Peters to discuss her inspiring journey into public law and the pivotal lessons she’s learned along the way. Temitayo shares how taking risks, casting a wide net, and staying open to unexpected opportunities have shaped her career. She also emphasizes the value of hard work, the resilience needed to navigate challenges, and how embracing failures can lead to growth.
Beyond career insights, Erica and Temitayo dive into the importance of self-care in the demanding legal profession and explore how artificial intelligence is transforming the industry. Tune in for a candid and motivating conversation as they explore the realities of a legal career, the unexpected turns it can take, and the ways the industry continues to evolve.
Check out the most impactful books Temitayo has read, Orthodoxy by G.K. Chesterson https://amzn.to/4jD3pSf (Amazon) and Lament for a Son by Nicholas Wolterstorff https://amzn.to/3ErDgFU (Amazon)
Temitayo Peters: https://www.linkedin.com/in/temitayo-o-peters-95b4bb80/
Erica Moore-Burton: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericamooreburton/
Round Hill Search: www.roundhillsearch.com
In this episode, Erica sits down with Sarah Kroll-Rosenbaum who opens up about her journey of navigating a demanding career while prioritizing personal growth and wellness. She shares the transformative power of slowing down, taking time to rest, and finding joy, emphasizing how these practices have allowed her to approach her work with renewed energy and clarity.
They explore how becoming a mother brought a profound shift in her perspective as a lawyer. Parenthood deepened her empathy, reshaping her problem-solving skills, and influenced how she approaches both her career and personal life. She also dives into the art of developing a successful business, stressing the importance of authenticity, truly listening to others, and building meaningful connections. Practical tips on networking and the courage to ask for help add depth to her advice.
But there’s even more—Sarah touches on strategies for nervous system regulation and offers additional insights on finding balance while embracing life’s complexities. Don’t miss this episode packed with inspiring reflections and actionable strategies for navigating life’s many roles with intention.
Check out Sarah’s favorite book: How to Do the Work: Recognize Your Patterns, Heal from Your Past, and Create Your Self by Dr. Nicole LePera https://amzn.to/4hahp4C (Amazon)
Sarah Kroll-Rosenbaum: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-kroll-rosenbaum/
Erica Moore-Burton: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericamooreburton/
Round Hill Search: www.roundhillsearch.com
In this episode, Erica sits down with Lisa Helfend Meyer to explore her inspiring journey from volunteering at a women’s clinic to building a career in family law. Lisa shares how those early experiences ignited her passion for family advocacy and ultimately led her to start her own law firm.
She discusses the dedication and resilience required in this field, emphasizing the importance of building strong, genuine relationships with clients and colleagues. Lisa also highlights the value of independence and self-reliance, as well as the persistence it takes to overcome rejection and establish a respected reputation.
Together, Erica and Lisa delve into the often-overlooked benefits of in-person work, the role of socialization, and finding balance through setting boundaries. Full of valuable insights, this episode offers a candid look into building a fulfilling path in law and life.
Check out Lisa’s favorite book: Marjorie Morningstar by Herman Wouk https://amzn.to/3POHUAA (Amazon)
Lisa Helfend Meyer: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-helfend-meyer-50b2311a/
Erica Moore-Burton: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericamooreburton/
Round Hill Search: www.roundhillsearch.com
In this episode, we sit down with Sabrina Narain to discuss the journey of embracing your authentic self in the workplace and the importance of establishing clear boundaries while staying true to who you are. We explore how utilizing platforms like LinkedIn and building a strong professional network can open doors to opportunities that align with your goals.
Our conversation highlights the value of nurturing workplace relationships and developing a book of business, as well as overcoming imposter syndrome by recognizing your own worth. We also touch on the growing influence of AI and how professionals can embrace new technologies to stay ahead in their careers.
Tune in for practical advice and empowering insights on finding your voice and thriving in today’s evolving workplace.
Check out Sabrina’s favorite movie, My Cousin Vinny, directed by Jonathan Lynn https://amzn.to/40Ht19k (Amazon)
Sabrina Narain: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabrina-narain-0ab2a157/
Erica Moore-Burton: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericamooreburton/
Round Hill Search: www.roundhillsearch.com
In this episode, we sit down with Christine Lawton, a trailblazing professional whose family roots and personal experiences have shaped her journey in navigating the workforce as a woman of color. We explore the challenges of finding and thriving in industries that value equity and fairness, and how being honest about your strengths and capabilities can empower you to advocate for your success.
Our conversation dives into the importance of having a willingness to learn, and how working with people who are invested in teaching and fostering your growth can make all the difference. We also discuss finding the right team culture—ensuring that your personality and approach align with both the role and the group.
As a woman of color in higher-level positions, Christine shares her perspective on the unique challenges and pressures of being one of the few in those spaces, while emphasizing the value of networking, mentorship, and building relationships that champion your career development.
This episode is packed with actionable insights and advice for anyone looking to grow in their career, especially for women and people of color aiming to break through barriers and achieve success.
Check out the most impactful book Christine has read, Mind Gym: An Athlete’s Guide to Inner Excellence by Gary Mack https://amzn.to/4arhLBb (Amazon)
Christine Lawton: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinelawton/
Erica Moore-Burton: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericamooreburton/
Round Hill Search: www.roundhillsearch.com
Join us on this episode as we sit down with Amber, a dynamic professional navigating the challenges of being Black in the legal field. We dive into her experiences, from building a successful career while balancing motherhood, to the importance of authentic, in-person connections beyond transactional interactions. Amber shares her insights on the value of having a strong support system, the impact of those who believe in you and take chances on your potential, and how cultivating positive relationships can be a driving force in career growth and business success. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that explores resilience, advocacy, and the power of community in shaping a fulfilling career.
Amber Finch: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amber-finch-77a1a715a/
Erica Moore-Burton: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericamooreburton/
Round Hill Search: www.roundhillsearch.com
In this episode, we sit down with Darlene Gartrell, a dynamic professional who shares her journey of adjusting when life takes an unexpected turn. After leaving a law firm and transitioning into a claims counsel role following a move to the East Coast, she talks about the importance of embracing change and finding work aligned with your passions.
We dive deep into the power of networking and how building relationships can help you land opportunities that resonate with your goals. Our guest also discusses the significance of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) work, emphasizing the need for equal opportunity in corporate environments.
Tune in as we explore how to find your voice in the workplace, advocate for yourself and others, and why focusing on mental health is crucial for personal and professional growth.
Show Notes: Instagram: @lightingthelegalcareerpath
Check out the most impactful book Darlene has read, Black Boy: Richard Wright https://amzn.to/3POJ3b4 (Amazon)
Darlene Gartrell: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darlene-gartrell-a599825/
Erica Moore-Burton: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericamooreburton/
Round Hill Search: www.roundhillsearch.com
Hula Hoop Challange: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/z2u0woLxkTQ
Marianne Williamson Quote: https://www.goodreads.com/quotes/928-our-deepest-fear-is-not-that-we-are-inadequate-our