Danielle Kays is a partner at Fisher Phillips, a nationally recognized litigator focused on privacy, biometric, AI, and employment law — and she did it her way, on her timeline, working remotely since 2013. In this episode, she gets real about the windy road to partner, what it looked like to balance Big Law with two little kids, and why taking 20 years to make partner is something to be proud of — not apologize for.
In this episode we cover:
- Why she joined Big Law when her kids were babies — in search of flexibility
- What it was really like to work from home in 2012 before anyone else was doing it
- The patronizing moments and upstream swimming that came with a non-linear path
- How she and her husband built a true partnership to make two demanding careers work
- The power of finding community — especially women who are a few steps ahead of you
- Why your career is a marathon, not a sprint (and what that actually means in practice)
Connect with Danielle: LinkedInWork with Erin Gerner:
Erin coaches high-achieving female attorneys who are successful on paper but struggling with burnout, identity crisis, and knowing what's next—helping them redefine success on their terms without sacrificing family or wellbeing.
Stay connected with Erin Gerner:Website: eringerner.comLinkedIn: Erin GernerInstagram: @eringernerFacebook: Erin Gerner
What is Powerhouse Lawyers?
Are you an ambitious attorney who wants to build a life and career that you cannot wait to wake up for? Then you're in the right place.
Welcome to Powerhouse Lawyers, a podcast for the Powerhouse in each of us.
I am your host, Erin Gerner. A former lawyer, wife, mom, and life coach, and I am on a mission to empower women in the law to define success on their terms, by leveraging their unique superpowers to help them win in both law and life. Join me each week to hear inspiring stories, real talk, and practical tips.
You need to redefine the toxic narratives that are keeping women overwhelmed, trying to do it all. You are worthy and capable of building a life and career that you have always wanted, and I'm here to empower you along the way. So if you are ready to practice law differently, let's go.