What happens when a burned-out litigator walks away from the courtroom—not to retire, but to build something better?

In this episode, Brian Glass sits down with Chicago-based attorney Jonathan Merel, who left a toxic law firm with no business plan, a second baby on the way, and a recession looming—just to prove he could build something human, modern, and meaningful. Sixteen years later, he leads a thriving 20-attorney practice that's redefining what family law can look like.

Jonathan shares the exact mindset shifts that took him from solo grinder to law firm CEO, how hiring a divorce coach transformed his client experience, and why emotional burnout is the silent killer in legal careers. From talent retention and marketing mistakes to automation, AI hesitations, and managing client expectations, this conversation pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to scale with soul.

If you’ve ever felt torn between practicing law and building a business—or wondered if it’s possible to grow without selling your sanity—this episode is your permission slip to think bigger.

To learn more about Jonathan or connect with his firm, visit www.merelfamilylaw.com or find him on LinkedIn: Jonathan Merel

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Brian Glass is a nationally recognized personal injury lawyer in Fairfax, Virginia. He is passionate about living a life of his own design and looking for answers to solutions outside of the legal field. This podcast is his effort to share that passion with others.
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