Sidebar Advisors
A podcast exploring the careers, choices and strategies shaping today’s legal landscape.
Hosted by Niraj Chhabra, each episode explores the intersection of law, career growth, and financial decision-making. Through conversations on leadership, professional development and business building, we unpack the moments that define success.
For those thinking about what’s next or looking to grow and feel more fulfilled in their current role, these conversations offer a thoughtful look at building a meaningful and successful career in and around the legal world.
Sidebar Advisors
Derek Brainard: Navigating Student Loans + Supporting the Next Gen of Lawyers
Use Left/Right to seek, Home/End to jump to start or end. Hold shift to jump forward or backward.
🎙 On this episode of the SideBar Advisors Podcast, we’re joined by Derek Brainard, CFP®, Director of Financial Education at AccessLex Institute—the nation’s largest nonprofit dedicated to supporting law students and legal education.
We cover:
- The top resources AccessLex offers for law students and recent grads
- How practicing attorneys with student loans should approach repayment plans—especially with ongoing policy shifts
- Why it’s crucial to leave all your options open in an unpredictable loan environment
- How law school alumni can bring AccessLex’s tools and support back to their alma maters
Whether you’re just a few years out of law school or advising the next generation, this episode is packed with practical insights on education, access, and long-term financial well-being.
🎧 Referenced Resource: AccessConnex by AccessLex – a free financial coaching service for law students and attorneys. Learn more at https://www.accesslex.org/accessconnex