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
Stefani Schwartz & Kathryn Hatfield: From Colleagues to Co-Founders
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In this episode of the Sidebar Advisors Podcast, Niraj Chhabra sits down with Kathryn Hatfield and Stefani Schwartz, the founding partners of Hatfield Schwartz, a women-owned labor and employment law firm that has grown steadily since launching during the uncertainty of COVID.
The two first met while practicing at a 60-lawyer firm and quickly realized they shared a similar vision for how a practice could operate — one grounded in partnership, autonomy, and strong client relationships.
They talk through what was happening in their lives when they made the decision to leave, how they prepared financially and personally for the transition, and how they’ve navigated the dynamics of building and scaling a firm together.
Along the way, Kathryn and Stefani discuss:
• How they prepared for the financial realities of launching a firm
• Why complementary strengths made their partnership work
• What they’ve learned about hiring and mentoring younger attorneys
• How they think about culture as their team continues to grow
Their story offers a candid look at what it actually takes to step away from stability and build a practice with intention.