EPISODE 19: No Contract? Welcome to the Wild Wild West
No Contract? Welcome to the Wild Wild West
A retreat collab. A great idea. But no contract. When things went sideways, one client had no legal power—and paid the price.
Why This Happens
It’s common: you trust someone, get excited about a project, and start building before you clarify who owns what. But the law assumes both parties share ownership—unless there’s a written agreement.
How It Gets Messy
When things go wrong, you’re stuck in what Cory calls “the Wild Wild West”—where no one has a clear legal advantage, and negotiations are costly and emotional.
What Could’ve Prevented It
A simple written agreement defining roles, rights, and responsibilities. That’s it.
Key Takeaways
✔️ Starting a project without a contract creates legal chaos
✔️ The law assumes 50/50 ownership unless stated otherwise
✔️ A written agreement protects your IP and brand vision
✔️ Conflict without contracts = expensive, stressful, and avoidable
🎧 Legal clarity starts with one document. Press play now.
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Law Meets Heart: The Conscious Counsel Podcast
Running a wellness business doesn’t mean you have to fear the legal side. We break down the law in a way that’s practical, empowering, and actually enjoyable.
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About Us
Heart-leading health and wellness entrepreneurs, we've got your back. The Conscious Counsel Podcast is the go-to resource for business growth and legal advice for practitioners, solopreneurs, and small businesses dedicated to making a positive impact and spreading love and wellness throughout the world.
Law meets heart. Hosted by Cory Sterling, this podcast shares real stories, practical insights, and legal wisdom for wellness entrepreneurs, fitness professionals, and heart-led business owners. Whether you’re scaling your studio, launching a retreat, or just want to make law feel less scary—this show is for you.
Whether you’re a yoga teacher, personal trainer, life coach, or holistic health professional, this podcast gives you the guidance, support, and protection you need without the confusing legal jargon. Tune in for enlightening conversations with experts, industry-specific legal guidance, and real-life case studies of conscious businesses. You do what you do to make the world a better place, and this podcast is here to clear the path so you can show up fully in your gifts. And, if you need legal help, why not get it from a lawyer who loves you?

Cory Sterling
Lawyer & Founder of Conscious Counsel
Cory is a heart-led lawyer, entrepreneur, and podcast host making law fun, accessible, and empowering for wellness professionals around the world.

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