Around The Ladder: From Big Law to Big Impact With Elise Holtzman

In this episode of Around the Ladder, host Erika Steinberg welcomes Elise Holtzman, former practicing attorney turned executive coach, consultant, and founder of The Lawyer’s Edge. Elise shares her unconventional journey from pre-med student to Big Law associate, and ultimately to a thriving career helping lawyers become confident leaders and rainmakers.

With humor and candor, Elise opens up about the challenges of leaving law, the mindset shifts required to embrace coaching, and the ripple effect of empowering women lawyers through her signature Ignite program. She also dives into the importance of investing in your own career development—even if it’s just two hours a quarter—and why law firms must rethink how they train and retain talent.

Whether you’re a seasoned partner, a rising associate, or someone considering a pivot, Elise’s story is a masterclass in clarity, courage, and career ownership.

Topics Covered:

• Elise’s shift from pre-med to law—and why physics sealed the deal
• Navigating identity after leaving Big Law
• The founding of The Lawyer’s Edge and discovering coaching
• Why specializing in lawyers has been all upside
• The intersection of leadership and business development
• Recurring themes in coaching women lawyers
• Generational shifts and the power of investing in young talent
• The importance of career “power hours”
• Advice Elise would give her younger self

Connect With Elise Holtzman:

• Website: The Lawyer’s Edge
• LinkedIn: Elise Holtzman
• Podcast: The Lawyer’s Edge Podcast