In this episode, we hear about the experience of both taking an unplanned break from the Bar and moving Chambers, and the loss of confidence in oral advocacy that can follow. We explore what it feels like to return after time away, the practical steps that can help rebuild advocacy skills, and the value of seeking structured support. We also learn about the advocacy training available for established practitioners at the Inner Temple, including opportunities to refresh, strengthen and continue developing advocacy skills throughout practice.

NEXT EPISODE TO LISTEN TO

Unplanned – Navigating the unexpected at the Bar

RESOURCES

Inner Temple Website

ABOUT YOUR HOST

Bibi Badejo is a family practitioner who appears in cases covering a wide range of challenging and sensitive matters, including non-accidental injuries, fabricated or induced illness, and sexual and physical abuse. Bibi is also a recognised leader in advocacy training nationally and internationally. She is an accredited advocacy trainer at the Inner Temple (teacher trainer level); has trained trial lawyers from over 20 countries as founder of The Advocacy Coach; and has her own internationally acclaimed podcast, The Advocacy Podcast.

CONTACT

Karen Taylor, Head of Teaching & Learning, The Honourable Society of the Inner Temple, education@innertemple.org.uk

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Life doesn’t always run to schedule, even at the Bar. This podcast opens up honest conversations about the unexpected events — mental health difficulties, burnout, bereavement, and other unplanned crises - that can suddenly reshape a barrister’s working life.

With voices from across the profession, we explore what happens when things fall apart, the pressures that can push people to step back or leave practice, and the support that helps them find their footing again. We look at how clerks, colleagues, and wellbeing specialists work together to offer practical adjustments and compassionate pathways back into practice.

This is a space for understanding and reassurance, shining a light on the help available when the unexpected happens.

RESOURCES

Inner Temple Website

ABOUT YOUR HOST

Sunyana Sharma is Head of the Inquest team at 3PB and, in addition to her inquest work, she practises in professional discipline and health and safety. She also sits as a Deputy District Judge in the County Court and as an Assistant Coroner. As a mum of two children, she is a mover and returner to the Bar. She has written for a number of publications, including an article on 'Kids, Court and Caffeine…How to survive having a baby at the Bar’ for The Barrister Magazine.

CONTACT

Karen Taylor, Head of Teaching & Learning, The Honourable Society of the Inner Temple, education@innertemple.org.uk

Trauma notice:

In this episode we’ll be referring to issues such as mental health, stress and burnout. If you experience any difficulties related to any of these issues, or as a result of listening to our podcast, please seek support from one of the organisations listed in the podcast resources.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Three barristers, one shared challenge: balancing the demands of life at the Bar with the realities of parenthood.

With honesty, warmth, and insight, they take listeners through the journey of caring responsibilities - from discovering a baby is on the way, to parental leave, returning to practice, and the shifting dynamics as children grow.

Alongside their own stories, they offer understanding, experience, and inspiration for anyone navigating the joys and pressures of raising a family while building a career at the Bar.

RESOURCES

Inner Temple Website

ABOUT YOUR HOST

Sunyana Sharma is Head of the Inquest team at 3PB and, in addition to her inquest work, she practises in professional discipline and health and safety. She also sits as a Deputy District Judge in the County Court and as an Assistant Coroner. As a mum of two children, she is a mover and returner to the Bar. She has written for a number of publications, including an article on 'Kids, Court and Caffeine…How to survive having a baby at the Bar’ for The Barrister Magazine.

CONTACT

Karen Taylor, Head of Teaching & Learning, The Honourable Society of the Inner Temple, education@innertemple.org.uk

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.