Podcast: The Power of Connections (with Rich Woo)

Episode: Jennifer Novak: Navigating the Legal Landscape - Insights from a Seasoned Environmental Lawyer

June 3rd, 2024

Read the Transcript Below

Rich Woo:
Welcome to The Power of Connections with Rich Woo, the podcast where we work with leaders looking to achieve personal and professional success by unlocking the power within their connections and relationships. I’m your host, Rich Woo.

Today, we have a great guest: Jennifer Novak, principal of an all-female law firm focusing on environmental law in Southern California. She’s practiced law for 30 years, representing clients from Fortune 500 companies to farmers and family-owned businesses. In her spare time, Jennifer has served as chair of the California Lawyers Association’s Environmental Law Section and on nonprofit boards, including the California YMCA Youth and Government Program.

Jennifer, welcome to the show!

Jennifer Novak:
Thank you! I’m excited to be here.

Early Life & Influences

Rich Woo:
You grew up in California—tell us about your journey.

Jennifer Novak:
I was born in Berkeley, moved to Southern California as a kid, went back north for college and law school, then returned to LA after meeting my husband. My grandmother—a trailblazing woman who joined the Navy (WAVES) during WWII—was a huge influence. She taught me independence and confidence.

Rich Woo:
If you could tell her one thing now, what would it be?

Jennifer Novak:
I’d thank her for giving me the strength to believe in myself, especially when I started my own firm.

Overcoming Obstacles

Rich Woo:
What were key challenges you faced?

Jennifer Novak:

Self-doubt: Entrepreneurs must recognize their weaknesses and seek support.
No entrepreneurial role models: I learned by connecting with others and absorbing their experiences.

Building an All-Female Law Firm

Rich Woo:
How did your firm come to be all-female?

Jennifer Novak:
It wasn’t intentional—we focus on growth, mindfulness, and creating a judgment-free space. That culture attracts certain personalities (so far, all women). We’re open to men who align with our values!

Parenting & Growth Mindset

Rich Woo:
You have two college-aged kids. What’s a parenting lesson you’ve learned?

Jennifer Novak:

Honesty: I explained the "why" behind rules, helping them make better decisions.
Safe space: Letting them be flawed humans without shame built their confidence.

Rich Woo:
How do you handle mistakes (theirs or yours)?

Jennifer Novak:
Focus on learning, not blame. Example: When my toddler stood on the couch safely, I praised her caution instead of projecting my fears.

Workplace Culture & Communication

Rich Woo:
How do you navigate conflicts at your firm?

Jennifer Novak:

Balance humanity and productivity: Bonding as a team improves work.
Clear communication: Adapt styles (e.g., face-to-face vs. written) to individual needs.
Mistakes are okay—if you learn: Repeat errors are the issue, not first-time slips.

The Power of Connections

Rich Woo:
Can you share a pivotal connection that helped your business?

Jennifer Novak:
When I started my firm in 2013, near-strangers offered encouragement, introductions, and advice. Their generosity taught me the value of community.

Rich Woo:
Why keep making new connections now?

Jennifer Novak:
Every new person teaches me something—whether about money, risk-taking, or client referrals. You’re never "done" learning.

Recommendations

Rich Woo:
Any inspiring books/podcasts lately?

Jennifer Novak:
Carol Loan Thiel (former attorney, now coach). Her podcasts on imposter syndrome and perfectionism resonate deeply with lawyers.

Final Lesson

Rich Woo:
What’s your takeaway about relationships?

Jennifer Novak:
Care about people genuinely. Good intentions attract opportunities and trust.

Closing

Rich Woo:
Thanks, Jennifer! Listeners, find her contact info in the show notes. Stay tuned for the next episode of The Power of Connections!