We had the good fortune of connecting with Amy Stoody and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Amy, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
I came from a family of overachievers. We were never idle; we were always busy finding ways to learn, achieve, and excel. This skill set served me well in college, marketing for IBM, owning a nightclub, law school, becoming an attorney and opening my own law practice. What has changed over the past several decades is my prioritization of being present for those around me, especially my children. I planned my court appearances around their schedules and always remembered that when I came home in the evening, my day with them began. Finding balance will always be elusive, but I have found that when I prioritize what is truly important to me – family, friends, mentoring, philanthropy, relaxation and education, my work-life balance shifts in the direction it needs to go. I will always cater to the needs of my clients, but it is equally important to be there for both those in need and myself. When I lost my 20 year old daughter, my entire perception shifted. Now I never let a day go by that I don’t make sure my loved ones know how cherished and important they are. Nurturing personal relationships demands as much, if not more, attention as the business relationships.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I love being a lawyer. I have loved it ever since I saw the movie “To Kill A Mockingbird” and the old Perry Mason series. I love fighting for justice and truth. I love my clients. They work hard and work with me as a team in achieving the great results we obtain in cases. I have owned my own law firm since 1993. I learned what I liked and what I wanted during my first few years of practice working for others, then shaped my firm to be what I always wanted it to be. I am proud to get great results for my clients, but a great deal of the credit goes to my amazing staff, which is truly my second family. We are a close-knit group that loves and respects each other. No one is above anyone else. We also laugh a lot. The practice of law is very hard and, at times, depressing and somber. There is nothing better than the gift of laughter when dealing with tough situations. I have never laughed so hard as I do with my staff. They are witty, kind and wonderful and help me develop my creative side so that I can come up with innovative solutions to case issues.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I live in beautiful Newport Beach. I would take them around the harbor on a cruise so they can see the area from the water. We would stop for a coffee at a little espresso shop, then wander around Fashion Island, full of outdoor areas, stores, and a koi pond. We can then take a ride down the coast to Laguna Beach and browse the art galleries before returning to Newport Beach and a trip to Balboa Island for a relaxing walk and a frozen banana. Of course we would make time for Disneyland and a round of golf at Pelican Hill, with beautiful views of the ocean. We have our choice of fine and casual dining. Wherever you want to go, we’ve got it!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to give a shoutout to my daughter, Hannah. Adopting her was a joyful experience beyond words. She is my sunshine and my light. She always calls me to check on me, which I find very sweet. She asks for my advice and actually thinks I am smart (makes up for those years between 13-20, when she felt my words warranted little more than an eye roll and a comment that I didn’t know anything)! I am also eternally grateful to a group of men and women that share their experience, strength and hope with me and continually help me grow.

Website: smdcomp.com

Instagram: amystoody

Facebook: Amy Menkes Stoody

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