Podcast

Most lawyers are taught the same lesson:

Pick a lane. Specialize. Stay there.

Asha Smith never bought into that idea.

In this episode of That One Lawyer Podcast, Asha explains why she refused to build her life around a single professional identity. Public defender. Professor. Mediator. Appellate advocate. Civil rights lawyer. Artist. Teacher.

While many lawyers worry that pursuing multiple interests will make them less effective, Asha argues the opposite. Creativity, curiosity, and diverse experiences have made her a stronger advocate, a better teacher, and a more complete professional.

Asha shares how her journey took her from art and media studies to law school, criminal defense, appellate work, mediation, legal education, and leadership within some of New York’s most influential bar associations.

The conversation explores:

• Why lawyers shouldn’t let their careers define their entire identity
• How creativity can improve legal advocacy
• The connection between teaching and lawyering
• Public defense and the pursuit of justice
• Building a meaningful legal career on your own terms
• Why professional growth often happens outside your comfort zone
• Mentorship, leadership, and lifelong learning
• The danger of limiting yourself too early in your career

For lawyers, law students, and professionals wondering whether they have to choose between success and personal growth, this episode offers a different perspective.

You only get one life.

Why spend it staying in one lane?

Subscribe to That One Lawyer Podcast for conversations with lawyers who are building extraordinary careers on their own terms.