Ep9 Beyond the Office: Building Networks & Passions Outside the Law with Theo Kapidistrias
Building Networks and Side Hustles as an In-House Lawyer 🤝✨
In this episode of Legal Light Bulbs, host Verity White chats with Theo Kapidistrias, multi award-winning lawyer, speaker, coach, and author of ‘A Way With Words’. They chat about the importance of building networks beyond the workplace for in-house lawyers. They explore how hobbies, communities, and side projects can help lawyers thrive and increase their influence.
Theo emphasises the value of connecting with peers through professional associations like the Association of Corporate Counsel, and how industry-specific groups and LinkedIn can be valuable networking tools. They also chat about balancing extracurricular activities with work commitments and offer practical tips for managing side hustles. The episode concludes with our signature lightning round, where Theo shares his insights on public speaking and the importance of having a supportive network.
You’ll discover:
The Importance of Networking Beyond the Workplace
Building and Maintaining Professional Networks
Special Interest Groups and Professional Associations
Tactical Networking Strategies
Balancing Side Projects and Professional Life
The Benefits of Hobbies and Extracurricular Activities
Practical Tips for Managing Time and Commitments
Navigating Employer Boundaries with Side Hustles
🔗 Don't miss out on these golden nuggets to boost your professional interactions and grow your network and side hustles effectively! click below to tune in now and check out the resources at the bottom of this page.
Listen Now on Spotify, Apple Podcast or Youtube
"You make time for what's important to you. I always say this to people: if you want something to happen, you will make the time. It’s not about being too busy, it’s about how you create the time to make it work. Whether it’s writing a book, building a network, or pursuing a side project, you just need to dedicate the time and commit to it."
— Theo Kapidistrias
In Legal Light Bulbs Episode 09, Verity is joined by Theo Kaspodistrias to explore how networking beyond the workplace and pursuing hobbies or side projects can enhance the careers of in-house lawyers.
At [00:01:00], Theo explains why building external networks is essential, noting that they provide support, opportunities for advice, and lasting friendships. By [00:03:00], he highlights the value of professional associations like the Association of Corporate Counsel (ACC), which cater to niche roles and industries, and previews the upcoming ACC National Conference.
At [00:05:00], the conversation turns to tactical networking. Theo suggests focusing on communities that align with your career goals and prioritising groups that offer the most value, emphasising that networking doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
From [00:10:00], Theo shares how he balances his commitments to writing, speaking, and leading networks by being transparent about his capacity and stepping back when needed. He stresses the importance of assessing the value of each activity to avoid burnout.
At [00:14:00], Theo discusses how hobbies, like writing a book, can develop vital legal skills, including communication and organisation. He encourages treating side projects as a way to grow professionally when approached thoughtfully.
The episode concludes at [00:24:00] with a lightning round. Theo shares practical tips, including his preference for in-person networking, the importance of planning every chapter when writing a book, and advice for side hustles: be upfront with employers, respect your paycheck, and avoid conflicts of interest.
Theo’s legal light bulb moment: The importance of having a network to lean on for support and advice. Find Theo on LinkedIn or his website for more tips on networking and thriving in-house.
Key Takeaways
Let’s recap the highlights from this episode on networking and side projects:
1. Build networks beyond your workplace
Connecting with professionals outside your organization offers support, fresh perspectives, and valuable friendships.
2. Leverage professional associations
Groups like the Association of Corporate Counsel (ACC) provide tailored networks, resources, and opportunities to learn from peers in similar roles.
3. Be tactical with your time
Focus on communities and activities that align with your interests and career goals. Evaluate what gives you the most value and step back when necessary.
4. Turn hobbies into strengths
Side projects like writing a book or speaking engagements can enhance your professional skills, from communication to organisation and audience engagement.
5. Ask for help
Don’t hesitate to reach out to your network when you need advice or support. Most people are happy to help, you just have to ask.
Lightning Round Highlights
Networking preference: In person, always.
Biggest mistake lawyers make: Going in too hard, too fast.
Top tip for writing a book: Plan everything, then just start writing.
Public speaking fear: Losing control and lack of confidence.
Legal light bulb moment: The power of having people you can call on. Your network is your lifeline
💡Legal Light Bulb Moment:
"Just the importance of having people that you can call on. I think some part of, I guess what we were talking about today, but. I've come across, I've come across things that I like, I've, I have no idea about, but I know that there are people that I know who've done heaps of this stuff.
So being able to pick up the phone and say, please help me. I'm so sorry for being annoying, but I know you all know the answer and I need help. People are always going to answer and say, sure, let's have a chat.”
— Theo Kapidistrias
Links & Resources
Listen Now on Spotify, Apple Podcast or Youtube
Association of Corporate Counsel (ACC)
If you’re an in-house lawyer, the ACC National Conference is the event you don’t want to miss!
Make sure you get yourself to the Gold Coast from November 12–14 for three days of networking, learning, and connecting with industry leaders.
Explore ACC’s Special Interest Groups, including:
Sole Legal Officer Network – A supportive group for sole legal officers.
Medical Health Group – Focused on legal professionals in the healthcare industry.
Legal Technology Information Committee – For insights into legal tech and innovation.
New to In-House Group – Perfect for those starting their in-house legal journey.
Pro Bono Group – Promoting pro bono opportunities and collaboration.
Governance Institute of Australia
A great resource for in-house lawyers to connect with governance professionals and stay ahead on topics like sustainability reporting and corporate governance. Perfect for broadening your knowledge and network!
Theo reminds us not to underestimate the power of LinkedIn! Your go-to platform for networking, finding professional groups and connecting with inspiring professionals. Start by connecting with Theo Kaspodistria and Verity White.
Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD)
Check out Theo’s book on communication and presentation skills.
Read this book and learn how to:
Evaluate your audience and create something your listeners will love
Develop your courage and confidence as a credible communicator
Share important information concisely to hold your audience’s attention
Be yourself and connect with your listeners
Communicate creatively and make your message unforgettable
Connect with Theo
Website: https://www.theokap.com.au/
Book: https://www.theokap.com.au/book
Instagram: @theokap88
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/theo-kapodistrias/
Connect with Verity
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/verityw
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/checklistlegal
