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Sari Swears Podcast: They Came for Trial Skills, They Left Transformed What happens when three trial lawyers commit an entire year to improving not just their trial skills, but themselves? In this episode of Sari Swears, Sari de la Motte sits down with Sean Olson, Brian Turner, and Adam Princenthal as they reflect on their year in Sari's Mastermind program. From letting go of scripted openings to rethinking their relationship with jurors, these three trial attorneys share the challenges, breakthroughs, and personal growth that came from consistent practice, mindset coaching, and working alongside one another. And the biggest changes didn't stop at the courtroom door. They carried into their law practices, relationships, confidence, and everyday lives. Listen to today's episode to learn: Why trial skills are only part of the equation: How mindset work can change the way attorneys approach the courtroom and their lives. What consistent practice makes possible: Why meaningful growth takes more than attending a seminar or learning another technique. How to trust yourself in the courtroom: What happens when you let go of memorized scripts, embrace your natural communication style, and stop trying to control every outcome. The value of a supportive community: How learning alongside other trial lawyers creates meaningful relationships, accountability, and lasting personal growth. Interested in Sari's Mastermind? You've heard what a year of focused trial training, mindset work, and meaningful connection can look like. Now imagine what that kind of commitment could mean for you. Sari's Mastermind is an exclusive, invitation-only experience for trial lawyers ready to go deeper into their trial skills and personal growth. Interested in being considered for a future Mastermind group? EXPRESS YOUR INTEREST Submitting your information does not guarantee an invitation. Sari personally selects participants. Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to the Sari Swears Podcast and leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. Your support helps more trial lawyers discover the show.

The One Shift You Must Make When Growing Your Business You started your business doing everything. Marketing, bookkeeping, client intake, delivering the actual service. And that worked when it was just you. But what happens when your business grows and you're still operating like you're the only person in it? In this episode of Sari Swears, Sari de la Motte breaks down the critical mindset shift from solopreneur to entrepreneur and why hiring a team doesn't automatically make that shift happen. She shares three warning signs that you're still stuck in the solopreneur mindset, including spending too little time in your zone of genius, feeling constantly overwhelmed, and frustrating your team. Sari also walks through the systems and leadership changes that make growth possible, from documented processes and accountability to finding an integrator, protecting your time, and learning to let go of control. Listen to today's episode to learn: The solopreneur trap: Why the habits that helped you start your business can hold you back as it grows. Your zone of genius: Why Sari recommends spending at least 80% of your time doing the work you're uniquely suited to do. The three warning signs: How to recognize when your mindset hasn't caught up with your growing business. The shift to entrepreneurship: How processes, accountability, an integrator, boundaries, and a focus on results can help you lead differently. 🏛️ Ready to strengthen your courtroom skills? Get hands-on practice and live feedback at our Command the Courtroom Masterclass: https://sariswears.com/masterclass Resources mentioned: The Big Leap by Gay Hendricks Traction by Gino Wickman Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS): https://www.eosworldwide.com Coaching: https://sariswears.com/coaching ⭐ Enjoying the podcast? Hit Subscribe and leave us a 5-star review!

What do you do after getting a defense verdict? You learn from it, get your ass back in the courtroom, and try again. Chrissy Hagen is back on Sari Swears, this time with fellow trial attorney Emily Peacock, to break down what changed between a previous defense verdict and their recent plaintiff's verdict. We talk about the lessons they took from that loss, how they approached voir dire differently, the importance of finding the piss-off point, and why arguing about the medicine can cause you to lose sight of what jurors actually need to hear. Listen to today's episode to learn: Find the piss-off point: Give jurors something they can emotionally rally around instead of expecting the facts alone to move them.  Get ahead of defensive attribution: Build your voir dire around the ways jurors may instinctively distance themselves from your client's experience.  Stop arguing about the medicine: In a medical malpractice case, the stronger story may be about responsibility, choices, and what happened after the mistake.  Learn from the f*****g loss: Chrissy shares how practicing more, learning from mistakes, and getting back into trial helped her become more confident in voir dire.  🏛️ Ready to get on your feet and practice the H2H Method? Claim a seat at our small-group Command the Courtroom Masterclass: sariswears.com/masterclass ⭐ Enjoying the podcast? Hit Subscribe and leave us a 5-star review!

What if the one thing that could change how you show up in the courtroom is something you're already doing every single day? You're breathing, sure. But are you breathing well? In this episode of Sari Swears, Sari de la Motte welcomes Kevin de la Motte, aka Coach K, to talk about why intentional breathing matters for trial attorneys. From stressful cases and opposing counsel's b******t to the pressure of standing in front of a jury, they explore how your breathing can affect your presence, reactions, and communication. Sari and Coach K also share practical ways to build a breathing habit, including Coach K's morning routine, meditation, exercise, and simple check-ins throughout the day. Because when everything is f*****g hitting the fan, you want to be the calm presence in the courtroom. Listen to today's episode to learn: Breathing Under Pressure: Why Sari and Coach K believe intentional breathing can help you stay grounded when trial gets stressful. Being Less Reactive: How noticing your breath can create space before you respond to opposing counsel, unexpected challenges, or your own thoughts. Showing Up as a Leader: Why Sari says the way you breathe affects how you sound, move, and communicate with jurors. Building a Breathing Practice: How Coach K incorporates breathing into his daily routine and shares ways to make the practice manageable. Resources mentioned: Your Survival Instinct is Killing You by Marc Schoen, PhD  Wevana Tabs  (formerly Dharma Dr. Tabs) The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma by Bessel van der Kolk, M.D.  🏛️ Ready to put the H2H method into practice? Join Sari for a small-group Command the Courtroom Masterclass: https://sariswears.com/masterclass  Want to explore coaching with Coach K? Learn about Momentum Coaching and book a free sample session: https://sariswears.com/coaching  ⭐ Enjoying the podcast? Hit Subscribe and leave us a 5-star review!

Are you spending your entire voir dire trying to figure out which jurors to kick off your case? You might be hurting your case before trial even begins. In this episode of Sari Swears, Sari de la Motte breaks down seven reasons why exclusionary voir dire is limiting your case, from legitimizing defense arguments and creating a fear-based mindset to missing the opportunity to build a team with your jurors. Listen in as Sari explains why focusing on who you want to exclude gives the defense unnecessary airtime, undermines your trial story, and keeps you from using a principle-centered approach to voir dire. In this episode, you'll learn: Legitimizing Defense Arguments: How exclusionary voir dire gives the defense valuable airtime before trial even begins. The Fear-Based Mindset: Why approaching jurors as potential enemies prevents you from building trust and taking risks. Protecting Your Trial Story: How focusing on defense points keeps you from putting your own story and principles first. Building Your Jury Team: Why searching for your people is more effective than simply eliminating the jurors you don't want. 🏛️ Ready to get on your feet and workshop your opening statement? Claim a seat at our small-group Command the Courtroom Masterclass: https://sariswears.com/opening ⭐ Enjoying the podcast? Hit Subscribe and leave us a 5-star review!

Welcome to the premiere of Season 9 of the Sari Swears podcast! In this episode, Sari returns from a 12-week sabbatical to break down why trial law is inherently a creative profession—and why taking an extended break is essential for avoiding burnout and restoring your courtroom presence. Listen in as Sari breaks down the difference between a vacation and a "rest and restore" sabbatical, the mistakes she made, and how trial lawyers who own their practices can train their teams to run without them. In this episode, you'll learn: Signs of Burnout in Trial Law: How physical symptoms and creative blocks indicate you need an extended break. The Anatomy of a Sabbatical: What a "rest and restore" sabbatical is (and why it is NOT a time to catch up on work). Gentle Goal Setting: How to set boundaries, build alone time, and calm your nervous system. How to Prep Your Law Firm: Step-by-step guidance on non-working vacations, team delegation, and stepping away from micromanagement. 🏛️ Ready to get on your feet and workshop your opening statement? Claim a seat at our small-group Command the Courtroom Masterclass: https://sariswears.com/opening ⭐ Enjoying the podcast? Hit Subscribe and leave us a 5-star review!

Can being too kind to yourself hold you back from achieving your goals? In this episode of Sari Swears, Sari de la Motte dismantles the toxic myth that trial lawyers must rely on self-criticism, fear, and burnout to succeed. Grounded in the behavioral science behind James Clear's Atomic Habits, Sari explains why the human brain is wired to respond to joy, desire, and rewards—not self-punishment. In this episode, you'll learn: The Motivation Myth: Why self-flagellation is the exact opposite of what creates sustainable personal growth. The Science of Habit Formation: How cues, cravings, and rewards drive real change far more effectively than force. Self-Love in High-Stakes Law: How shifting from fear to self-acceptance allows you to build a successful trial practice without sacrificing your well-being. Resources & Links:  🏛️ Transform your trial results at the Command the Courtroom Masterclass: https://sariswears.com/masterclass  ⭐ Enjoying the podcast? Leave a 5-star review wherever you listen!

Struggling with employees, paralegals, or associates who aren't doing things the way you told them to? In this episode of Sari Swears, Sari de la Motte breaks down the secret to delegating effectively so you can step out of the daily administrative grind and into your Zone of Genius. If you want your firm to run smoothly—even when you're on vacation or preparing for a trial—it comes down to one simple rule: Write it the f**k down. Listen to today's encore episode to learn: The 3 reasons documenting your firm's processes will cut your meetings in half and save your sanity. Front Stage vs. Back Stage: How to map out every single client touchpoint and internal task. The simple framework to instantly know if a mistake was caused by a bad process or the wrong person. Resources mentioned: FREE TRIAL SKILLS TRAINING → sariswears.com/free

This is my fifth and final episode before Sari returns, and I'm leaving you with a topic that completely changed my life: manifestation. I used to think it was complete b******t, too. But it's not magic—it's neuroscience, awareness, and getting out of your own way. In this last episode, I break down: Why fear and self-doubt are the biggest obstacles to creating the life you want The "Upper Limit Problem" and how we unknowingly sabotage ourselves How your brain's Reticular Activating System helps you recognize opportunities that were there all along The story of how Sari and I manifested our dream beach house The daily ritual I use to stay intentional, focused, and moving toward the future I want to create Thank you for hanging out with me this summer. It's been an honor, and I hope these conversations challenged you to think differently—about your cases, and about yourself. Until next time, Coach K If you'd like to explore some of the resources I mentioned in the episode, I've included links below. The Big Leap by Gay Hendricks – Learn how to identify and overcome the "Upper Limit Problem"—the subconscious beliefs and self-sabotaging behaviors that keep you from reaching your full potential. The Power of Consistency by Weldon Long – A practical guide to creating lasting success through daily habits, intentional action, and a clear vision for the life you want to build.

Anxiety is something almost every trial attorney deals with. The problem is, most of us just push through it. We tell ourselves it's part of the job. That the constant overthinking, worst-case scenarios, and pressure are just what it takes to be successful. I used to believe that too. In this week's podcast, I share my own journey with anxiety, what I've learned coaching trial attorneys through it, and the practices that have helped me stop letting anxiety drive the bus. In this episode, I cover: Why anxiety isn't something to eliminate—it's something to learn from The mindfulness and breathing techniques I use every day How to stop believing every anxious thought your brain throws at you Why anxiety can actually become one of your greatest strengths when you learn to work with it instead of against it You don't have to wait until you're burned out or overwhelmed to make a change.  Sometimes the biggest shift comes from slowing down long enough to realize you have a choice. See you next week, Coach K If you'd like to explore some of the resources I mentioned in the episode, I've included links below. Calm the Chaos Cards – A deck of simple prompts and practices designed to reduce stress, calm your nervous system, and bring more mindfulness into your day. Anxiety: A philosophical guide by Samir Chopra – A refreshing perspective on anxiety that encourages you to step outside your thoughts instead of being consumed by them. Power of now by Ekhart Tolle– A modern classic on mindfulness and presence. Tolle teaches practical ways to quiet the constant mental chatter, observe your thoughts without judgment, and stay grounded in the present moment.   Quote:  "Anxiety isn't something you eliminate. It's something you learn to be with. And when you stop letting it drive the bus, it can become one of your greatest strengths." Coach K Can't get enough of me? Connect with me here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saridelamotte/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SariSwears Watch on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@SariDLM  Free FB Group for Plaintiff & Criminal Defense Attorneys https://www.facebook.com/groups/fromhostagetohero/

As trial attorneys, you spend your days carrying other people's burdens. But who's taking care of you, Friend? In this week's podcast, I share the daily spiritual practice that helped me recover from burnout, process secondary trauma, and show up as a better coach, husband, and human. And before you skip this one because of the word spiritual, I'm not talking about religion. I'm talking about creating a simple daily practice that helps you reconnect with yourself before you spend the rest of your day serving everyone else. In this episode, I cover: Why burnout happens even when you love what you do How breathing, affirmations, and gratitude help reset your nervous system Why putting your oxygen mask on first makes you a better trial attorney You don't need an hour. Just a few intentional minutes each day can make all the difference. See you next week, Coach K   If you'd like to explore some of the tools I use in my own daily spiritual practice, I've included links to a few of my favorites below.  Calm the Chaos Cards – A deck of simple prompts and practices designed to reduce stress, calm your nervous system, and bring more mindfulness into your day. AWAKE: Inner Wisdom Cards – A reflection deck that encourages self-awareness, journaling, and deeper personal insight through daily prompts. Crystal Singing Sound Bowl – One of my favorite tools for slowing down, regulating my nervous system, and creating a moment of calm before the day begins or ends. Quote: "The best trial attorneys make time for themselves first. They charge their own batteries so they can show up as the best version of themselves for their clients. Putting your oxygen mask on first isn't selfish—it's essential." - Coach K   Can't get enough of me? Connect with me here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saridelamotte/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SariSwears Watch on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@SariDLM  Free FB Group for Plaintiff & Criminal Defense Attorneys https://www.facebook.com/groups/fromhostagetohero/

If you're like most trial attorneys I work with, you've probably told yourself, "I just need to prepare more." Preparation matters, but what if the thing that's actually missing isn't another hour at your desk? What if it's play? In this week's podcast, I talk about why creativity doesn't come from grinding harder. I share why: Trying to be "100% prepared" often leads to burnout, not better performance Working in focused blocks with intentional breaks helps your brain perform at its best Simple, playful activities can unlock creativity when you feel stuck The attorneys who stand out aren't just well prepared, they're creative If you've been feeling overwhelmed, mentally blocked, or like you're working harder without getting better results, I think this conversation will resonate. Give it a listen, and then ask yourself one question: When was the last time you intentionally made space for play? Love, Kevin   Quote:  "Don't get me wrong, preparation's important. But what if your preparation was more playful? What if your preparation was more playful and it fueled creativity in your work? That's what we want to get to. Being able to get on your feet, be playful, and get creative while you're preparing."  Coach K Can't get enough of me? Connect with me here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saridelamotte/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SariSwears Watch on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@SariDLM  Free FB Group for Plaintiff & Criminal Defense Attorneys https://www.facebook.com/groups/fromhostagetohero/

If you've been listening to the podcast for a while, you probably know me as Coach K. While Sari is taking a well-deserved sabbatical, I'll be stepping in each week to share some of the mindset work I do with trial attorneys every day. If we haven't met yet, I'm Kevin de la Motte, mindset coach here at H2H. This week's episode is about something I see constantly with attorneys: Overwhelm. Not the kind that comes from having too much on your calendar. The kind that seems to follow you everywhere, even when you finally cross things off your list. Here's the surprising part: Most overwhelm isn't created by your workload. It's created by your brain's survival instinct. In this episode, I walk through: Why your brain defaults to overwhelm How slowing down actually gives you more control A simple breathing practice to calm your nervous system Why reminding yourself, "I have choice here," changes everything The journaling questions I use every day to stay grounded The goal isn't to eliminate discomfort. It's to stop letting discomfort make your decisions for you. If you've been feeling like you're constantly pushing through, I think this episode will give you a different way to approach it. See you next week, Coach K Resources:  Listen to the Two Windows Visualization and download the Four Square Breathing Exercise worksheet that I referenced throughout the episode.  If you'd like to dive deeper, I also highly recommend the two books that inspired much of this conversation: Your Survival Instinct Is Killing You by Marc Schoen Don't Believe Everything You Think by Joseph Nguyen Quote:  "The goal isn't to eliminate discomfort. It's to stop letting discomfort make your decisions. When you slow down, calm your nervous system, and choose thoughts that serve you instead of reacting from fear, you become a better trial lawyer—and a better human being."  Coach K Can't get enough of me? Connect with me here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saridelamotte/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SariSwears Watch on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@SariDLM  Free FB Group for Plaintiff & Criminal Defense Attorneys https://www.facebook.com/groups/fromhostagetohero/

Ever feel like you're carrying around a heaviness you can't quite explain? Maybe you're exhausted, distracted, or constantly thinking about something that happened months or even years ago. Maybe you can't figure out why it's so hard to move forward. This week's podcast might explain it. Coach K and I are talking about something we don't do very well as humans: completion. We rush from one thing to the next. We don't celebrate our wins. We avoid difficult endings. We leave conversations unfinished. We never fully process losses, transitions, or even really great moments. And then we wonder why we feel stuck. In this episode, we talk about: Why endings often feel like failures How unfinished experiences create emotional and mental clutter Why completion is essential for learning and growth Practical rituals and conversations that can help you let go and move forward The question to ask yourself if life feels heavy right now: What in my life remains incomplete? Listen to the episode and let me know what comes up for you. Love, Sari   Quote:  "If you're feeling heavy and if you're feeling stuck, you might look at what is left incomplete in your life. Because if you go back and start intentionally completing those things, you're going to start feeling lighter right away." Sari de la Motte Can't get enough of me? Connect with me here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saridelamotte/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SariSwears Watch on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@SariDLM  Free FB Group for Plaintiff & Criminal Defense Attorneys https://www.facebook.com/groups/fromhostagetohero/

Most lawyers would have taken the $400,000… The plaintiff had healed. No surgery. Relatively modest medical bills. Plenty of risk heading into trial. But attorney Matthew Wilson saw something bigger. In this episode of Sari Swears, Matthew breaks down how he turned down the highest offer in the case, took it to verdict, and watched a jury return $1.8 million. More importantly, he shares what changed his approach in the courtroom. For years, voir dire was the part of trial that terrified him most. Then he started doing something different—having real conversations with jurors instead of relying on the same old script. In this episode, you'll hear: How a "small" injury case became a seven-figure verdict The overlooked damages that resonated with jurors What focus groups revealed about suing a city How authenticity changed Matthew's entire approach to voir dire The moment he realized jurors don't need perfection—they need a real person And perhaps the most powerful part of the story isn't the verdict itself. 😉 Love, Sari