Burnout, Boundaries and Beginner’s Mind with Patrick Patino, Esquire
What happens when two lawyers—both trained in high-performance environments, both walking a new path—sit down to talk?
You get a conversation like this one.
This week on Conscious Corner Podcast with Courtney I was joined by Patrick Patino —attorney, podcast host, and the heart behind The Newfangled Lawyer. And this episode is a little different because we recorded it together. As co-hosts, co-reflectors, and fellow travelers in this ever-evolving journey of work, meaning, and mindfulness.
Right from the start, our conversation took a soulful turn.
🐾 We talked about Patrick’s golden retriever, Bear, and how the simple presence of a dog can teach us more about mindfulness than any book ever could.
💥 We dove into burnout—not just the crash-and-burn kind, but the subtle, invisible kind that creeps in when you’re stuck in “grind mode” and don’t even realize how much of yourself you’re losing.
🧠 We reflected on the fear that comes with turning inward: “The scariest place you can ever go is within yourself,” Patrick said. And I agreed. Because it’s not easy to face our doubts, anxieties—or even our joy.
🧭 We also got honest about what it means to be an authentic lawyer. Not someone who conforms to the mold. But someone who is willing to stay connected to their values—even when the profession tries to pull them away.
One of the things I admire most about Patrick is his willingness to evolve out loud. If you follow him on LinkedIn, you may have noticed that a career shift is on the horizon. It takes real courage to admit that something no longer feels aligned—and even more to start again.
That’s why this week’s episode is dedicated to one of the attitudinal foundations of mindfulness known as Beginner’s Mind.
“In the beginner’s mind, there are many possibilities. In the expert’s mind, there are few.” — Shunryu Suzuki
When we’re brave enough to not know… we create space for something new. And Patrick is doing just that.
🎧 You can now listen to or watch the full episode!
🎥 Want a sneak peek? Check out these short clips:
This conversation also mirrored another one I had this week—one that deeply moved me.
A law school colleague recently introduced me to Rozier, Judge Vince, a Wake County Superior Court Judge in North Carolina. We spoke about the very real weight judges carry. From the outside, people may assume that judges are immune to stress. But that couldn’t be further from the truth.
Judge Rozier shared how judges quietly carry the weight of the world on their shoulders. Despite the perception of authority and control, so many are navigating chronic stress, anxiety, and burnout behind the scenes.
Our conversation left me hopeful—and energized. We’re exploring a future collaboration to offer a workshop for legal professionals that combines mindfulness, lived experience, and deep care for those working in the legal field.
🌿 Feeling the need to reconnect with yourself—one breath at a time?
Whether you're a lawyer, judge, leader, or simply navigating a demanding season of life, you're not alone. The path to greater ease, clarity, and presence starts with small, intentional steps.
✨ I’ll be sharing a free Mindfulness Starter Kit soon to support you on that path. In the meantime, let’s stay connected.
💌 Follow me on LinkedIn for practical tips and reflections—and be the first to know when it’s available.
💬 Reflection Prompt: Where in your life are you being called to begin again?
#MindfulnessForLawyers #JudicialWellness #BeginnersMind #BurnoutRecovery #LegalProfessionWellness