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Avoid the Golden Handcuffs of Debt with LJ Jones

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Sidebar with a CFP®: Pierce the Veil on BigLaw Life, Career, and Money with Matt Smith, Episode 2

In this episode of the Sidebar with a CFP®: Pierce the Veil on BigLaw Life, Career, and Money, Matt Smith speaks with fellow Texas Longhorn, LJ Jones. LJ, a CPA and a CFP, is principal and founder of Developing Financial LLC, where he services young lawyers, helping them make the right financial decisions so they can focus on their careers and the life they want to live.

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

  • How artificial intelligence is changing the way financial planners and clients interact, especially in the legal profession

  • Some of the most common financial mistakes lawyers make, and how they can avoid the "golden handcuffs" of debt

  • How the landscape of student loan planning has evolved, and what legal professionals should consider before refinancing or seeking forgiveness

  • Success stories that highlight the impact of financial planning for young legal professionals, particularly in achieving major life milestones

  • How LJ found his niche in financial planning for lawyers

  • Resources for young lawyers seeking guidance today

Learn more about LJ Jones:

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About “Sidebar with a CFP®: Pierce the Veil on BigLaw Life, Career, and Money”:

You bill in 6-minute increments. Let’s get you some of that time back. “Sidebar with a CFP®” is your space for candid conversations about life inside BigLaw—the real stuff they don’t teach in law school or show in recruiter brochures.

Hosted by Matt Smith, CFP® and founder of Concert Financial Planning, this show pulls back the curtain on what it actually feels like to climb the ranks, navigate transitions, and make big decisions in a high-stakes career.

You’ll hear from Partners, Associates, and experts across law and finance—each sharing stories, surprises, and strategies for building a life (and career) that works for you.

This isn’t a money podcast. It’s a life-in-BigLaw podcast—with a CFP® in the host chair.

Watch or listen to more episodes of Sidebar with a CFP®: Pierce the Veil on BigLaw Life, Career, and Money:

Connect and learn more from your host, Matt Smith and Concert Financial Planning: