The Conscious Counsel Podcast

Wondering when to stop being a sole proprietor and start a company? Cory breaks down when it makes sense to incorporate—legally, financially, and practically.

In this episode, Cory shares three real-world stories to help wellness entrepreneurs decide when forming a legal entity is the right move. From an Ayurvedic clinic inheritance to a Pilates studio inside a family home, to a heli-skiing adventure business—these cases il...

A rash. A yoga mat. A $1 million lawsuit. Here’s why your waiver needs to go beyond the basics—and how to fix yours.

In this jaw-dropping episode, Cory shares a real story about a yoga studio that got sued for over $1 million—because of a rash allegedly caused by a shared mat.

The lawsuit wasn’t just shocking—it was expensive. And the worst part? The waiver the studio used was a generic template. It didn’t mention specific ...

What Should I Put in My Contract? How to Build Agreements That Actually Work

What goes into a great contract? It depends—but in the best way possible.

 In this episode, Cory Sterling shares a real story about a Pilates studio collaborating with a celebrity guest teacher for a retreat, and how they reverse-engineered the agreement based on what actually made the relationship work.

You’ll learn:

• Why the best contract...

How to Legally Remove Difficult Clients Without Refund Drama

Yes, you can fire clients—but only if your agreements give you the power to do it.

In this episode, Cory Sterling shares two real stories: one where a retreat leader had to remove a guest for breaking a no-alcohol rule, and another where a studio owner struggled to kick out a disruptive member because they didn’t have a contract in place.

You’ll learn:

• What gives...

New FTC laws are changing how you manage subscriptions. Here’s what to update now to stay compliant—and avoid costly refund requests.

In Episode 5, Cory Sterling unpacks the 2024 Click-to-Cancel law and how it affects gyms, studios, and online programs that use recurring billing. You’ll hear two real client stories: one where outdated agreements led to a refund and lost revenue, and one where a proactive legal update protec...

Misclassifying your workers can cost you everything. Here’s how to get it right and avoid expensive legal fallout.

In this episode, Cory dives into one of the most misunderstood areas of law for wellness businesses: how to classify the people who work for you. Are they independent contractors or employees? The answer impacts your legal risk, your relationships, and your bottom line.

Cory shares four powerful stories—from six...

When someone gets hurt at your retreat, gym, or studio—your waiver is your first line of defense. Here's how to make sure it's doing its job.

In this episode, Cory breaks down what makes a waiver of liability effective—and what happens when it’s not. You’ll hear two real-world stories: one where a vague template led to a six-figure problem, and another where a specific waiver stopped a legal issue before it started. Whether...

Protecting your brand isn't optional—it's essential. Learn what to do if someone copies your name, logo, or vibe, and how trademarks can save you time, money, and stress.

In this episode of the Conscious Counsel Podcast, Cory Sterling shares two real client stories—one cautionary tale and one legal win—that explain the power of having your intellectual property protected. From cease-and-desist letters to six-figure branding...

Your legal position determines how costly or stressful a problem becomes—learn how to protect your biz from day one.

In this kickoff episode of the Conscious Counsel Podcast, Cory Sterling breaks down the single most important legal concept for heart-led entrepreneurs: your legal position. This foundational idea will shape how your business handles unexpected challenges, from client disputes to refund requests.

You’ll hear r...

Welcome to The Conscious Counsel Podcast, the ultimate resource for heart-leading health and wellness entrepreneurs. Whether you're a yoga teacher, personal trainer, life coach, or holistic health practitioner, this show is designed to help you grow your business, protect your brand, and scale with confidence—without the legal headaches. Hosted by lawyer and entrepreneur Cory Sterling, this podcast brings clarity, empowerm...