SideBar Advisors

Derek Brainard: Navigating Student Loans + Supporting the Next Gen of Lawyers

• Episode 51

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🎙 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