How to Navigate the Entertainment Law Industry feat. Gordon Firemark

Gordon Firemark, a media producer and lawyer based in Los Angeles, shares his journey from television sports production to running an entertainment law practice in this episode. As the go-to expert for podcast-related legal matters, Gordon discusses his experience in podcasting and teaching entertainment law. He also delves into his diverse career, including producing shows, practicing law, and teaching courses on entertainment and intellectual property law.

LISTEN TO LEARN

  • The importance of positioning oneself as an expert in a specific field through podcasting
  • The different aspects of entertainment law and the peculiarities of the entertainment industry
  • The benefits and challenges of working in live theater, TV production, and podcasting

WE ALSO DISCUSS

  • Gordon's experience as a media producer and lawyer, and how he uses his background in television sports production in his entertainment law practice
  • The evolution of Gordon's podcast, "Entertainment Law Update," and his role as the "podcast lawyer”
  • Gordon's daily routine, which involves creating content, practicing law, and teaching courses on entertainment law and intellectual property

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How to Navigate the Entertainment Law Industry feat. Gordon Firemark

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How to Navigate the Entertainment Law Industry feat. Gordon FiremarkHow to Navigate the Entertainment Law Industry feat. Gordon Firemark

About This Episode

Gordon Firemark’s Background

Gordon Firemark has had a diverse and dynamic career trajectory. Initially interested in theater and live production, Gordon transitioned into television sports production before ultimately pursuing a career in law. Despite not initially planning to practice law long-term, Gordon found success as an entertainment lawyer, leveraging his experience in media production to run an entertainment law practice in Los Angeles, California. His unique background in theater, television, and law has allowed him to excel in various roles, including teaching entertainment law and intellectual property courses at local institutions.

"I never had a plan," shares Gordon Firemark on You Are A Lawyer.

Despite not having a predetermined path, Gordon's diverse skill set and passion for creativity have led him to a fulfilling career that combines his interests in entertainment, media, and law. His ability to balance multiple roles, from producing shows to teaching classes and running a law practice, showcases his versatility and dedication to pursuing a fulfilling and varied professional life.

Why Law School

Gordon initially did not consider pursuing law school until a college professor suggested the idea to him. Gordon mentioned that he had a background in theater and film production, and his initial career aspirations were focused on working in the entertainment industry. However, when faced with limited job opportunities and the need to pay off his law school debt, Gordon decided to pursue a legal career.

"I never really thought about the fact you come out of law school with six figures of debt. The only really way you're going to be sure you're going to pay it back is having that law job that pays you enough to pay that back in a reasonably quick fashion," reflects Gordon Firemark on Episode 159 of You Are a Lawyer.

Despite not having a concrete plan for his legal career, Gordon found that law school refined his creativity and provided him with a new perspective on business acumen and regulatory matters. He mentioned that law school honed his creativity and business skills, allowing him to understand complex legal frameworks and apply them in various industries. Gordon's experience in law school not only broadened his knowledge but also opened up new opportunities for him to work in different fields.

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What Can You Do with a Law Degree

Gordon himself transitioned from a career in television sports production to running an entertainment law practice in Los Angeles. He emphasized that a law degree can provide a unique perspective and business acumen that can be applied to various fields, such as entertainment, media, and even teaching. Gordon's experience showcases that with a law degree, one can work in different industries, from producing shows to teaching courses on intellectual property and contracts law.

"The most real interaction I have with the guild itself is when a client has a dispute with a producer or something like that, or a producer has a dispute with a writer and we're engaged in an arbitration or something like that," explains Gordon Firemark, on this episode of You Are a Lawyer.

Gordon's journey demonstrates that a law degree can lead to a dynamic and fulfilling career where one can wear multiple hats. From creating content to practicing law and teaching, Gordon's diverse roles show that a law degree can be a stepping stone to a versatile career path. Whether it's producing shows, teaching classes, or running a law practice, having a law degree allows individuals to engage in different aspects of the legal field and beyond. Gordon's approach of blending his legal expertise with his passion for entertainment and teaching exemplifies the flexibility and creativity that a law degree can offer

Lawyer Side Hustles

Gordon Firemark, a media producer and lawyer, shared his experience of balancing multiple roles, including running an entertainment law practice, teaching courses, and producing podcasts. He emphasized the importance of staying interested in different areas and finding excitement in helping people across various spectrums. Gordon's approach to having multiple jobs reflects a non-linear career path that allows for continuous growth and learning opportunities.

“My destination is to enjoy the journey,” shares Gordon Firemark in Episode 159 of You Are a Lawyer.

Gordon's story serves as a testament to the benefits of having a side business as a lawyer. By engaging in various activities such as teaching, producing shows, and running a law practice, he has been able to maintain a sense of excitement and interest in his work. His ability to balance different roles while still being present for his family showcases the flexibility and fulfillment that side hustles can offer legal professionals. Gordon's journey exemplifies how having a side business can not only enhance one's career but also provide a sense of purpose and enjoyment in the legal profession.

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Contact Gordon Firemark

Gordon Firemark is licensed to practice law in the State of California.

Learn more about Gordon

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