They discuss delegation, hiring before you feel fully ready, automating repetitive processes, and setting clear expectations for team performance. The conversation also dives into accountability, leadership growth, and how small operational improvements compound over time. 

If you are ready to move beyond founder dependence and build a firm designed for scalability, resilience, and long-term value, this episode offers practical frameworks and real-world insight to help you get there. 

Listen to our previous episodes on Scaling & Building a Sellable Firm. 

• #306: Getting to Know & Love Your Numbers, with Bernadette Harris Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• #583: From Survival to Strategy: Scaling Your Law Firm Finances, with Bernadette Harris Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• #588: Practice Smarter, Not Harder: 411 Tips for Modern Lawyers, with Jordan Couch Apple | Spotify | LTN 

Have thoughts about today’s episode? Join the conversation on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and X! 

If today’s podcast resonates with you and you haven’t read The Small Firm Roadmap Revisited yet, get the first chapter right now for free! Looking for help beyond the book? See if our coaching community is right for you. 

Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com. 

Chapters / Timestamps:  

00:00 – Introduction 

03:50 – Standards, KPIs & Hard Conversations 

07:30 – Meet Andy 

08:45 – Lessons from 18 Years in Practice 

10:15 – Removing Your Name from the Firm 

12:45 – Building a Firm You Can Sell 

15:30 – Automation & Low Hanging Fruit 

17:00 – Accountability & Team Meetings 

19:25 – The “I’ll Just Do It Myself” Trap 

21:15 – Hiring Strategically 

23:30 – Expanding the Physical Office 

25:40 – Closing Thoughts 

Daigneault launched her own firm less than two years ago in the busy Boston area, specializing in real estate, land use, and property matters, all fields she was already well versed in.

A session with a coach helped Daigneault fully frame the vision and direction of her practice, craft policies, and understand onboarding new hires. Starting a new solo firm is hard, do you need help cutting through some of the steps and learning from those who went before you?  

Daigneault is an advocate for learning about and investing and experimenting in tech, AI, and other tools before worrying about office space. As a new solo, tech can save time, build efficiencies, and let lawyers do what they do best. 

Questions or ideas about solo and small practices? Drop us a line at NewSolo@legaltalknetwork.com  

Topics:

• A new solo, embarking on a second career as an attorney, took some tips from one of New Solo’s earlier guests, attorney and legal practice coach Kellam Parks. 
• Not all tech and AI are the same, it takes time and research to understand what works for you. Lining up the right tools makes a difference.
  
• In today’s legal environment, tech is becoming king. But if you can manage it, the right support staff and office space can push you forward and keep you growing.

Resources:

Previously on New Solo, “Six To-Dos Every Firm Can Embrace in 2026,” with Kellam Parks

The Real Estate Bar Association for Massachusetts

QuickBooks

Gusto

Adobe

ChatGPT

Perplexity

Spellbook

Lexis Protégé

Clio

ABA Techshow 2026

Clio Cloud Conference 2026

Melissa shares her personal journey from high-achieving “functioning” lawyer to long-term sobriety, and explains why so many attorneys struggle silently while still appearing successful on the outside. Together, they explore law firm drinking culture, client expectations, stigma around asking for help, and why recovery does not have to mean labels or all-or-nothing thinking. 

If you’ve ever felt burned out, anxious, or not quite like your best self, this episode offers practical insight, reassurance, and a path toward building a healthier, more sustainable legal career without shame. 

Listen to our previous episodes on Lawyer Well Being & Recovery. 

• 469: Lawyers in Crisis: Navigating Addiction and Mental Healthy, with Brian Cuban Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• #477 Controlling Alcohol with Annie Grace Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• #506: Managing Stress & Avoiding Burnout, with Emily Nagoski Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• #533 The Alcohol Experiment, with Annie Grace Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• #535 Lawyer Burnout: 5 Hidden Signs You’re About to Crash, with Natasha Evans Apple | Spotify | LTN 

Have thoughts about today’s episode? Join the conversation on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and X! 

If today’s podcast resonates with you and you haven’t read The Small Firm Roadmap Revisited yet, get the first chapter right now for free! Looking for help beyond the book? See if our coaching community is right for you. 

Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com. 

Chapters / Timestamps:  

00:00 – Intro & Conference Recap 

08:30 – Melissa’s Story 

10:00 – Achievement as a Mask 

12:10 – Rethinking Abstinence 

14:30 – Harm Reduction & Personal Choice 

15:50 – Warning Signs in Law Practice 

16:30 – The Role of the Bar 

17:50 – Leadership & Language 

20:00 – Rethinking Firm Events 

23:10 – Career Growth After Recovery 

26:00 – De-Stigmatizing Help 

29:00 – Closing Thoughts 

Karin explains why expertise, not automation, is what rises to the top in an AI filtered world. As large language models reshape how potential clients search for answers, shortcuts like keyword stuffing and mass produced content are quickly losing their impact. What stands out instead is real authority built through credibility, third party validation, media appearances, and consistent messaging across platforms. 

The conversation also challenges the idea that your website is your first impression. In today’s landscape, visibility often starts elsewhere. Zack and Karin unpack how referral systems support a larger authority strategy and what it truly means to move from building, to stabilizing, to growing your marketing in a deliberate and sustainable way. 

Listen to our previous episodes with Karin:  

• #559: The Imitation Trap: Lessons from 15 Years of Top Law Firm Websites , with Conroy Creative Counsel (Sponsored) Apple | Spotify | LTN  

• #546: Unlock Law Firm Growth: AI marketing Secrets with Karin Conroy Apple | Spotify | LTN  

• #584: How to Stay Human in the Age of AI-driven Law Firm Marketing, with Creative Conroy Apple | Spotify | LTN 

Links from the episode: 

https://conroycreativecounsel.com/ 

Have thoughts about today’s episode? Join the conversation on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and X!  

If today’s podcast resonates with you and you haven’t read The Small Firm Roadmap Revisited yet, get the first chapter right now for free! Looking for help beyond the book? See if our coaching community is right for you.  

Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com. 

Chapters / Timestamps:  

00:00 – Meet Karin Conroy
02:30 – AI, Agents & The Content Explosion
04:15 – The M Dash as a Trust Tell
07:00 – Why Google Isn’t the Front Door Anymore
09:00 – Knowledge Panels & Online Authority
12:30 – You Can’t Fake Expertise
15:00 – Stop Chasing SEO Tricks
17:30 – Authority Through Media & PR
21:00 – Who Needs a Media Kit
23:00 – Referrals Are a Marketing Strategy
25:00 – Build Before You Scale
28:00 – AI Rewards Real Experts
32:30 – Closing Thoughts 

Their conversation examines how AI systems embed values, why verification matters more than transparency, and how lawyers can responsibly use tools they don’t fully understand. They also explore what legal expertise looks like in an AI-powered future—and why intuition, trust, and integrity may matter more than ever as machines take over the “widgets” of legal work. 

Listen to our other episodes on Ethics and Responsibility in AI. 

• EP. 582 Deepfakes, Data, and Duty: Navigating AI Ethics in Law, with Merisa Bowers Apple | Spotify | LTN 
• EP. 543 What Lawyers Need to Know About the Ethics of Using AI, with Hilary Gerzhoy Apple | Spotify | LTN 

Have thoughts about today’s episode? Join the conversation on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and X! 

If today’s podcast resonates with you and you haven’t read The Small Firm Roadmap Revisited yet, get the first chapter right now for free! Looking for help beyond the book? See if our coaching community is right for you. 

Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com. 

Chapters / Timestamps:  

00:00 – Introduction 

05:55 – Meet Damien Riehl 

08:10 – Why AI Is a Different Kind of Legal Tool 

11:05 – When AI Starts Doing Legal Work 

14:30 – Ethics, Values, and AI Judgment 

18:45 – Foundation Models vs. Legal-Specific AI 

21:15 – The “Duck Test” and Trusting AI Output 

24:45 – Trust but Verify: Reviewing AI Work 

28:40 – What Lawyers Are Underestimating About AI 

31:10 – What Still Requires Human Judgment 

34:30 – Intuition, Trust, and Integrity in Law 

37:40 – What This Means for Billing and the Future 

40:40 – Closing Thoughts 

• With new clients, take the time to set expectations and explain the process. Assumptions and miscommunication can lead to lower satisfaction when a client’s uninformed expectations don’t meet reality, even with a successful outcome
  
• Starting with a clear explanation of the process can lead to more favorable outcomes. Will the case go to trial, our would a settlement be better? How much would one route cost vs. another? Give clients the big picture. Real life is not a television TV drama.
  
• Is your marketing attracting the clients you want? Casting the widest net isn’t always the best choice. Explain who you are and what you do honestly. And then live up to those promises. (And for Heaven’s sake, get your tech in order. Clients today expect at least that: Hear the common tech shortfalls that turn clients off.)

Matt breaks down why surface-level AI tools fall short, how agentic AI can make informed recommendations instead of opaque scores, and what it takes to build trust in automated decision-making. They also discuss how better intake systems can reduce wasted time, improve lead quality, and support more intentional firm growth. 

Listen to our other episodes on Artificial Intelligence in Legal Practice. 

• #497: Real Talk About Artificial Intelligence in Your Office, with Ben Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• #543: What Lawyers Need to Know About the Ethics of Using AI, with Hilary Gerzhoy Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• #546: Unlock Law Firm Growth: AI marketing Secrets with Karin Conroy Apple | Spotify | LTN 

Links from the episode: 

https://www.lawmatics.com/ 

Have thoughts about today’s episode? Join the conversation on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and X! 

If today’s podcast resonates with you and you haven’t read The Small Firm Roadmap Revisited yet, get the first chapter right now for free! Looking for help beyond the book? See if our coaching community is right for you. 

Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com. 

Chapters / Timestamps:  

00:00 – Introduction 

01:28 – Meet Matt Spiegel 

03:55 – From the Cloud to AI in Legal Tech 

05:38 – Why Lawyers Are Cautious About AI 

06:50 – Moving Beyond Surface-Level AI 

08:51 – Why Lead Scoring Misses the Point 

11:14 – What Makes Agentic AI Different 

14:10 – Generative AI vs. Agentic AI 

15:57 – Teaching Software to Make Decisions 

17:17 – Automating Outcomes, Not Steps 

20:10 – Why Lawmatics Was Already Agentic 

21:47 – Trust, Guardrails, and Client Data 

24:20 – What Qualify AI Does Differently 

25:33 – Closing Thoughts 

They unpack the biggest myths lawyers believe when starting a firm, why being a good lawyer isn’t enough to create a sustainable business, and how relying on personal heroics instead of structure quietly traps firm owners over time. Stephanie breaks down the three constraints that cause most firms to struggle, the three distinct paths law firms can take, and the key questions lawyers should ask early to align their business model with the life and career they actually want. 

Listen to our other episodes on Law Firm Strategy & Business Design. 

• #583 – From Survival to Strategy: Scaling Your Law Firm Finances, with Bernadette Harris Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• #575 – From Overwhelmed Lawyer to Strategic Law Firm Owner, with Chad Fox Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• #570 – Uncover Your Firm’s Journey with the New Small Firm Scorecard, with Stephanie Everett Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• #568 – How to Build a Law Firm You Can Sell, with Victoria L. Collier Apple | Spotify | LTN 

Have thoughts about today’s episode? Join the conversation on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and X! 

If today’s podcast resonates with you and you haven’t read The Small Firm Roadmap Revisited yet, get the first chapter right now for free! Looking for help beyond the book? See if our coaching community is right for you. 

Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com. 

Chapters / Timestamps:  

00:00 – Introduction 

01:15 – Why This Isn’t About “Starting” a Law Firm 

03:45 – The Biggest Myth Lawyers Believe About Firm Ownership 

06:50 – Heroics vs. Structure 

10:30 – The Three Constraints That Trap Law Firm Owners 

12:45 – Every Firm Is Choosing a Business Model (Whether You Realize It or Not) 

14:30 – The Three Paths Law Firms Take 

18:55 – When Your Goals and Design Don’t Match 

20:55 – How Clients Actually Buy Legal Services 

23:30 – What Breaks If Demand Doubles 

25:00 – Clarity Beats Certainty 

29:15 – What to Do in the First 30 Days 

33:40 – Where to Go Next 

Guest Kellam Parks is a partner with the metrics- and technology-driven family and cybersecurity law firm Parks Zeigler PLLC, and he runs the coaching program “The Motivated Lawyer,” helping firms craft a path to a successful future. Hear how he recently took on one new client pro bono to demonstrate how his coaching helps lawyers visualize and achieve their goals.

Parks began his own Virginia Beach firm as a “paperless” entity nearly 15 years ago, incorporating emerging tech to maximize efficiencies. As the firm developed, tech tools have helped his team automate the routine and focus on the most important and demanding tasks. He is a regular speaker and provider of CLE programs for attorneys and firms and produces educational videos and a popular newsletter packed with tips.

Do you need help building out your technological capacities and marketing? As Parks points out, “Nobody knows everything.” Always be learning and open to new ideas. 

Questions or ideas about solo and small practices? Drop us a line at NewSolo@legaltalknetwork.com  

Topics:

• Too many solos start out with no intentional plan, opting instead to gather as many clients as they can then scrambling to keep up. A recipe for stress and inefficiency.
• In 2026, think about what you actually want from your firm. Then create an intentional plan to get there, step by step.
• Technology is not an option. Use the tools available to you. But remember “technology does not fix chaos.” It all starts with your plan, your established systems, and understanding what you’re doing (and why).

They unpack the challenges students face when they lack exposure to legal careers, the importance of writing and bar preparation support, and how community and accountability shape confidence during the transition into the profession. The episode highlights how intentional mentorship and community support can reduce uncertainty, build confidence, and create clearer pathways into the legal profession. 

Listen to our other episodes on mentorship, mindset, and professional development.  

• Episode #596 — The Athlete’s Mindset for Lawyers, with Jess Sargus Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• Episode #592 — Client Care, Culture, and Character: A Framework for Great Leaders, with William O’Neal Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• Episode #588 — Practice Smarter, Not Harder: 411 Tips for Modern Lawyers, with Jordan Couch Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• Episode #576 — How Sponsorship, Empathy, and Failure Shape Great Leaders, with Michael Cohen Apple | Spotify | LTN 

Have thoughts about today’s episode? Join the conversation on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and X! 

If today’s podcast resonates with you and you haven’t read The Small Firm Roadmap Revisited yet, get the first chapter right now for free! Looking for help beyond the book? See if our coaching community is right for you. 

Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com.
 

Links from the episode:

https://www.journeytoesquire.com/

Chapters: 

00:00 – Introduction 

01:45 – Why the Path Into Law Isn’t Clear 

06:10 – Meet Jocelyn Hardrick 

08:25 – What Journey to Esquire Does 

12:40 – First-Generation and Nontraditional Barriers 

17:30 – Mentorship vs. Sponsorship 

21:55 – Writing, Bar Prep, and Practical Skills 

26:40 – Building Confidence Through Community 

31:20 – Advice for New and Aspiring Lawyers 

34:10 – Closing Thoughts 

Zack and Ben break down how Copilot helps lawyers draft and edit documents, summarize complex files, extract key deadlines, prep for meetings, and manage inbox overload—all while keeping client data protected within Microsoft’s security framework. They clarify where Copilot delivers the most value, where caution is required, and why understanding its limitations is essential to using it effectively. For lawyers curious about AI but unsure where to begin, this episode offers a clear, realistic roadmap for adopting Copilot without compromising accuracy, ethics, or trust. 

Listen to our other episodes on  AI, Legal Technology & Practical Innovation in Law Firms:  

• Rethinking Law Firm Growth in the Age of AI, with Sam Harden Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• Episode 550: Beyond Content: How AI Is Changing Law Firm Marketing, with Gyi Tsakalakis & Conrad Saam Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• Episode 543: AI Ethics: What Lawyers Need to Know, with Hilary Gerzhoy Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• Episode 497: Real Talk About Artificial Intelligence in Your Office, with Ben Schorr Apple | Spotify | LTN 

Have thoughts about today’s episode? Join the conversation on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and X! 

 If today’s podcast resonates with you and you haven’t read The Small Firm Roadmap Revisited yet, get the first chapter right now for free! Looking for help beyond the book? See if our coaching community is right for you. 

Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com. 

Chapters / Timestamps:  

00:00 – Introduction 

08:43 – Meet Ben Schorr 

11:08 – What Copilot Is (and Why Lawyers Care) 

13:27 – Security, Privacy, and Client Data 

16:47 – Drafting Legal Documents With Copilot 

18:36 – Schorr’s Law: Always Review AI Output 

20:30 – Editing, Fact-Checking, and Improving Existing Work 

23:57 – Summarizing Documents and Extracting Key Info 

28:49 – Brainstorming, Personas, and Strategy Testing 

34:34 – Agentic AI: What’s Possible (and What Isn’t)  

Dramatic policy shifts crafted by the Trump Administration’s immigration policies are shaking up both immigration and employment law. Recently, Guizar says, we’ve seen immigration raids at workplaces, along with mass deportations. In some cases, the U.S. government has even removed legal status from workers who previously had permission to work. Even workers on skilled labor visas are impacted. 

Based in the United Kingdom, Longdon sees some similarities in policy shifts both there and in the U.S. as politics plays a role in immigration and labor issues. She explains international guidelines for hiring workers across borders to fill specific needs. 

One thing is clear, workers, employers, and employment lawyers are left to untangle swirling regulations and enforcement policies. Now throw in individual state laws and union representation issues. It’s a new world. 

Danielle explains how adult learners differ from students in traditional classrooms and what this means for client communication, team training, and CLE presentations. They explore why information overload backfires, how focusing on the “why” improves understanding, and simple ways to design learning experiences that actually stick without making things more complicated.  

Listen to our other episodes on client communication and understanding:  

1. Episode #539 – This VOICE HACK Will Transform Your Legal Career!, with Rena Cook Apple | Spotify | LTN 

1. Episode #384 – Delivering Bad News to Clients, with Marjorie Aaron Apple | Spotify | LTN 

1. Episode #338 – Reframing Your Client Experience, with Spencer Keys Apple | Spotify | LTN 

Have thoughts about today’s episode? Join the conversation on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and X! 

If today’s podcast resonates with you and you haven’t read The Small Firm Roadmap Revisited yet, get the first chapter right now for free! Looking for help beyond the book? See if our coaching community is right for you. 

Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com. 

Chapters / Timestamps:  

00:00 – Introduction 

03:12 – Why Lawyers Are Always Teaching 

08:37 – Meet Danielle Hall 

10:49 – How Adults Learn Differently 

14:57 – Information Overload and Client Confusion 

17:01 – Teaching Clients and Teams More Effectively 

21:52 – Why Most CLEs Don’t Work 

25:28 – Applying Adult Learning in Your Firm 

31:46 – Closing Thoughts 

Hear the original episode with Lee Rosen

Learn more about ALPS Insurance. 

Receive email notifications every time we release a new episode.

Jess breaks down the core pillars of athletic thinking. From growth mindset and action orientation to process focus and purpose, and explains how lawyers can apply these principles to become better leaders and perform at their best under pressure. 

If you want to hear more from Jess, check her out at: https://www.thelegalathlete.com/ 

Listen to our other episodes on Mindset & Performance: 

• #588 – Practice Smarter, Not Harder: 411 Tips for Modern Lawyers, with Jordan Couch Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• #585 – First Aid for the Mind: Mental Health in Law, with Soumya Palreddy & Jill Kluesner Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• #572 – Practical Courage Skills Every Lawyer Needs, with Jim Detert Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• #551 – Becoming the AI-Driven Leader, with Geoff Woods Apple | Spotify | LTN 

Have thoughts about today’s episode? Join the conversation on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and X! 

If today’s podcast resonates with you and you haven’t read The Small Firm Roadmap Revisited yet, get the first chapter right now for free! Looking for help beyond the book? See if our coaching community is right for you. 

Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com. 

Chapters / Timestamps:  

00:00 – Introduction 

03:12 – Meet Jess Sargus 

04:02 – From Law to Combat Sports 

08:06 – Competition, Business, and Leadership 

11:15 – Why Mindset Matters 

15:12 – The Athlete’s Mindset Defined 

17:01 – Action Orientation and Elite Performance 

19:30 – Getting Comfortable with Failure 

22:05 – Growth Mindset and Competitiveness 

26:03 – The Five Pillars of Fierce Agency 

29:21 – Process Over Outcome 

34:46 – Purpose and Mission Alignment 

39:48 – Where to Find Jess 

40:53 – Closing Thoughts 

Unlock a clearer view of your law firm’s financial health in the latest Lawyerist Podcast. Join host Stephanie Everett as she dives into the essential key performance indicators (KPIs) that can transform how you understand your practice, guided by the expert insights of Bernadette Harris, Lawyerist Lab’s finance coach. 

You’ll gain practical knowledge about five crucial areas that directly impact your firm’s success. Understand your net profit margin like never before – not just the surface numbers, but the true profitability that informs your strategic decisions. Explore utilization rate and discover how to optimize your team’s time for maximum productivity. Learn the critical importance of your realization rate and practical steps to ensure you’re capturing the revenue you’ve earned. See how mastering AR aging can directly impact your cash flow and create financial stability. Plus, uncover the strategic advantage of understanding your revenue by practice area, empowering you to make smarter choices about your firm’s financial future. 

For straightforward, actionable insights into these vital financial indicators – the kind that can immediately help you manage your law firm more effectively – tune in to hear Bernadette Harris share her expertise. 

Listen to our other episode with Bernadette Harris: 

• #457: Healthy Profits: Understanding the Story Your Numbers Tell, with Bernadette Harris Apple Podcast | Spotify |  Lawyerist 

• #523: Financial Red Flags: Are You Hiring Too Soon?, with Bernadette Harris Apple Podcast |  Spotify | Lawyerist 

• #418: More Income, Fewer Taxes, with Bernadette Harris Apple Podcast |  Spotify | Lawyerist 

Have thoughts about today’s episode? Join the conversation on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and X! 

If today’s podcast resonates with you and you haven’t read The Small Firm Roadmap Revisited yet, get the first chapter right now for free! Looking for help beyond the book? See if our coaching community is right for you. 

Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com. 

Chapters: 

00:00 Why We’re Remastering This Episode for the New Year
02:55 Law Firm KPIs and Financial Health
05:21 Net Profit Margin for Law Firms
09:38 Utilization Rate and Team Capacity
14:35 Realization Rate and Getting Paid
20:05 Accounts Receivable and Cash Flow
24:19 Revenue by Practice Area
27:16 Using Financial Metrics to Set Strategy 

Guest Kristin Tyler is a lawyer and co-founder and chief brand officer at LAWCLERK, which supplies contract attorneys for growing, busy law firms under an arrangement where freelance attorneys work under the supervision of a client’s in-house attorneys. 

From discovery to document review to deposition management, contract attorneys can manage routine tasks at rates designed to be affordable for growing firms. Why hire a part-time paralegal when you can hire an actual attorney at a comparable rate? 

Whether you’re a growing firm or an attorney looking for part-time work, hear why this could be the solution you’ve been looking for. 

Questions or ideas about solo and small practices? Drop us a line at NewSolo@legaltalknetwork.com. 

Topics:

• Contract and part-time remote attorneys can help busy, growing firms find affordable legal assistance when things get hectic.
  
• Why hire a remote paralegal when you can hire an actual, licensed attorney at a comparable cost? Do your best and outsource the rest! Special for our listeners, for your first hire from LAWCLERK, use the promo code NewSolo25 for a $100 rebate.
  
• Hear how the arrangement works, including ethical and licensing policies, confidentiality, state-specific availability, and even hiring attorneys who are experts in the exact area of law you need.

Resources:

Previous appearance on Legal Talk Network, “Clio Cloud 2022: Hire for Success – Best Practices for Growing Your Team”

Previously on New Solo, “Checking In! Four Years Later, Solo Practice Aloha Divorce Is Thriving” 

Clio

ABA Techshow 2026

Clio Cloud Conference 2026 

Stephanie and Zack revisit standout moments, share why certain episodes resonated, and reflect on the themes that shaped the year—while inviting listeners to share which episodes made the biggest impact and what topics they’d like to hear more about in the year ahead. 

Listen to some of the episodes highlighted this year: 

• Episode #585 – First Aid for the Mind: Mental Health and the Law, with Sumia and Jill — Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• Episode #577 – Rethinking Law Firm Growth in the Age of AI, with Sam Harden — Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• Episode #565 – Becoming the AI-Driven Leader, with Geoff Woods — Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• Episode #553 – AI Tools and Processes Every Lawyer Should Use, with Catherine Sanders Reach — Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• Episode #579 –  Knee Deep in Escheating: Intricacies of Lawyer Trust Accounts, with Amy Woods — Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• Episode 539 – This VOICE HACK Will Transform Your Legal Career!, with Reena Cook —  Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• Episode 554 – Competence and Diligence in Light of Changing Laws and Regulations, with Craig Dobson — Apple | Spotify | LTN 

Have thoughts about today’s episode? Join the conversation on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and X! 

If today’s podcast resonates with you and you haven’t read The Small Firm Roadmap Revisited yet, get the first chapter right now for free! Looking for help beyond the book? See if our coaching community is right for you. 

Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com. 

Chapters / Timestamps:  

00:00 – Introduction & Year-End Reflection 

01:35 – Why These Episodes Stood Out 

01:56 – AI Tools and Practical Tech Takeaways 

02:59 – Building Community and Adult Friendships 

04:28 – Mental Health First Aid for Lawyers 

07:06 – Ethics, Flat Fees, and Changing Scope 

09:14 – Voice, Presence, and Communication Skills 

11:46 – Becoming an AI-Driven Leader 

14:36 – Rethinking Growth in the Age of AI 

18:00 – Trust Accounting and Compliance Essentials 

20:03 – Listener Feedback & Looking Ahead 

21:07 – Closing Thoughts and Thanks 

If you’re at a smaller or mid-size firm, you don’t get a pass on marketing. You still need to reach potential clients. But you’ll have to do it on a smarter, scaled level. Guest Erika Steinberg spent decades developing marketing strategies for large firms, then she formed her own company, CMO2go, which helps smaller and mid-size firms develop and execute marketing strategies that fit their budgets. 

Don’t feel overwhelmed by the word “strategy” or be intimidated by the very idea of marketing. Strip it down to the essentials and take it step by step. A good marketing brainstorming can help you not only focus your strategies but also understand your firm’s goals and target audience. 

Are you committing the sin of “random acts of marketing?” Find out on this episode of the Un-Billable Hour.

Ask us anything for the Community Table. Leave us a question online!

Join the next Community Table discussion live! Always the third Thursday of the month at 3pm Eastern.

Jeff breaks down his Moneyball-inspired profit formula to show how client quality impacts leads, conversion rates, revenue, and margins. They explore why discount-seeking clients create compounding damage, how setting clearer expectations can improve client behavior, and when it makes sense to let certain clients walk away. A closer look at the tension between profitability and access to justice, and how intentional business models can support both. 

Listen to our previous episodes about Client Experience & Law Firm Profitability: 

Episode #384 – Delivering Bad News to Clients, with Marjorie Aaron — Apple | Spotify | LTN 

Episode #462: Designing an Empathetic Client Experience, with Kirk Simoneau — Apple | Spotify | LTN 

Episode #474: Moneyball for Lawyers, with Jeff Krause — Apple | Spotify | LTN 

Episode #560 – Stop Doing Everything Yourself! Unlock Your Law Firm’s True Potential, with Leticia DeSuze — Apple | Spotify | LTN 

Have thoughts about today’s episode? Join the conversation on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and X! 

If today’s podcast resonates with you and you haven’t read The Small Firm Roadmap Revisited yet, get the first chapter right now for free! Looking for help beyond the book? See if our coaching community is right for you. 

Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com. 

Chapters / Timestamps:  

00:00 – Introduction 

05:12 – Meet Jeff Krause 

06:51 – What “Moneyball for Lawyers” Really Means 

09:08 – The Profit Formula That Drives Firm Growth 

12:46 – How Bad Clients Damage the Numbers 

15:30 – The Compounding Cost of Discounts 

18:21 – Raising Rates vs. Chasing More Clients 

19:45 – Can You Improve Mid-Tier Clients? 

21:58 – Profitability vs. Access to Justice 

24:19 – Building Intentional Service Models 

26:48 – Trusting Your Data—and Your Gut 

27:43 – One Step Firms Should Take Right Now 

28:23 – Closing Thoughts 

Hear the original episode with Nate Cade

Learn more about ALPS Insurance. 

Receive email notifications every time we release a new episode.

William shares his Five Essentials of Leadership, unpacking why rapport drives efficiency, how consistent service builds loyalty, and what it takes to design a client journey your team can deliver every single day. They also explore the hidden costs of poor communication, the power of service recovery, and practical ways leaders can create more stability for both clients and staff. 

Links from this episode: 

https://www.williamoneal.com/ 

Listen to our previous episodes about Client Experience & Relationships.  

#462: Designing an Empathetic Client Experience, with Kirk Simoneau Apple | Spotify | LTN  

#347: How a Client Happiness Coordinator Increased My Firm Referrals & Reviews, with Ryan McKeen & Brittany Green Apple | Spotify | LTN  

#338: Reframing Your Client Experience, with Spencer Keys Apple | Spotify | LTN  

#271: Client‑Centered Law Firms, with Jack Newton Apple | Spotify | LTN  

Have thoughts about today’s episode? Join the conversation on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and X!  

If today’s podcast resonates with you and you haven’t read The Small Firm Roadmap Revisited yet, get the first chapter right now for free! Looking for help beyond the book? See if our coaching community is right for you. 

Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com. 

Chapters / Timestamps:  

00:00 – Intro 

05:12 – Meet William O’Neal 

06:15 – Leading with Joy 

07:51 – Five Essentials of Leadership 

09:01 – Heart for Service 

12:41 – Knowing Your Value 

14:07 – What Clients Want 

16:35 – Building Rapport & Trust 

18:55 – Culture & Consistency 

20:30 – Empathy in Client Experience 

22:10 – Lessons from Chick-fil-A 

24:09 – Service Recovery 

25:31 – Feedback & Improvement 

27:36 – Adapting to Change 

29:29 – Small Acts, Big Trust 

30:18 – Learn More + Closing 

Competitive research is an oft overlooked marketing activity, but you should definitely be focusing on this valuable information to make smarter decisions for your law firm’s marketing efforts. However, getting your hands on this research might not be as easy and obvious as you’d like it to be. So, how do you find out what you need to know? The guys talk through what to keep in mind as you pursue your research.

The News:

• This is looking like a smart new venture: Rankings.io has acquired Gladiator.
• Aw, shucks—Chris Dreyer named us as top SEOs. Thanks, Chris!
• Aaaaand, another acquisition, if you care to know — SEMRush (an SEO tool) was purchased by Adobe.
• Still steadily sinking toward the inevitability of your AI overlords? Welp, with new updates from both ChatGPT and Gemini, we’ll all get there eventually.
• Conrad’s spidey senses are tingling… Floyd Mayweather got into the law through The Money Team Law Firm, and is now entering the legal marketing realm. Hmm. 
• Last, more thoughts on exclusivity with Gyi and Conrad. And, we want to know what you think! Leave us a comment on LinkedIn or YouTube. 

Suggested LHLM Episodes:

•  Local SEO 2024: How to Rank with Local Falcon

Connect:

The Bite – Lunch Hour Legal Marketing Newsletter!

Leave Us an Apple Review 

Lunch Hour Legal Marketing on YouTube 

Lunch Hour Legal Marketing on TikTok

r/LHLM 

• After a new client comes on board, within a week, your team needs to check back in. This is your chance to delight. If there’s an issue, a misunderstanding, or a question, this is an opportunity fix it. Delighting a client is always better than simply satisfying a client.
  
• The right team answering incoming calls is vital. But how do you outsource that? How do you pay someone and where do you find them? And when is it time to hire your own, in-house, full-time employees to convert those calls to clients?
• Modern times lead to modern solutions. Today’s buy now, pay later tools can help your firm retain clients by helping them manage payments. Alternative fee arrangements work, and innovative payment methods can remove barriers to attorney/client relationships.

Ask us anything for the Community Table. Leave us a question online!

Join the next Community Table discussion live! Always the third Thursday of the month at 3 p.m. Eastern.

Cyrus and Stephanie discuss why informational blog posts no longer drive the traffic they once did, how to structure content so LLMs can “read” and reference it, and why brand signals now carry more weight than keywords. They also cover how to evaluate SEO vendors, what metrics matter in an AI-first world, and simple steps lawyers can take to establish trust and expertise online. 

Links from the episode: 

lawyerist.com/scorecard 

Zyppy.com 

Listen to our previous episodes about Practical AI for Law.  

• #562 – Beyond ChatGPT: The AI Revolution Happening Inside Your Firm, with Charreau Bell — Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• #565 – Becoming the AI-Driven Leader, with Geoff Woods — Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• #452 – Managing AI in Your Practice, with Ed Walters — Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• #501 – Future-Proofing Your Firm in the Age of AI, with Jack Newton — Apple | Spotify | LTN 

Have thoughts about today’s episode? Join the conversation on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and X! 

If today’s podcast resonates with you and you haven’t read The Small Firm Roadmap Revisited yet, get the first chapter right now for free! Looking for help beyond the book? See if our coaching community is right for you. 

Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com. 

Chapters / Timestamps:  

00:00 – Intro & Scorecard
03:53 – Meet Cyrus Shepard
05:12 – How AI Is Changing Search
06:00 – Zero-Click & AI Overviews
07:26 – Why Old Content Tactics Fail
08:57 – Shifting Toward Brand Authority
10:09 – Writing Content LLMs Can Read
11:33 – Showing Experience with E-E-A-T
14:23 – Reddit, YouTube & Source Signals
15:51 – Where New Firms Should Start
17:18 – Brand Building as SEO Strategy
18:27 – Vetting SEO Agencies Today
20:40 – Metrics That Actually Matter
22:03 – Real-World Visibility Wins
22:21 – Wrap-Up & Where to Find Cyrus 

Discover why AI isn’t a distant future—it’s a powerful tool lawyers can start using today to improve workflows, reduce stress, and deliver better results for clients. 

 Links from the episode:  

LexpertAI 

 Listen to our previous episodes about Practical AI & Law Firm Efficiency:  

• Episode #562: Beyond ChatGPT: The AI Revolution Happening Inside Your Firm, with Charreau Bell — Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• Episode #565: Becoming the AI-Driven Leader, with Geoff Woods — Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• Episode #577: Rethinking Law Firm Growth in the Age of AI, with Sam Harden — Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• Episode #584: How to Stay Human in the Age of AI-Driven Law Firm Marketing, with Karin Conroy  — Apple | Spotify | LTN 

Have thoughts about today’s episode? Join the conversation on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and X! 

If today’s podcast resonates with you and you haven’t read The Small Firm Roadmap Revisited yet, get the first chapter right now for free! Looking for help beyond the book? See if our coaching community is right for you. 

Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com. 

Chapters / Timestamps:  

00:00 – Introduction 

08:45 – Meet Graydon 

11:10 – Practical AI in Law Firms 

16:40 – Myths, Fears & Privacy 

19:00 – Real AI Workflows 

23:00 – Productive Laziness 

31:00 – AI in the Courtroom 

34:45 – Faster Discovery & SOPs 

38:50 – Flat Fees & the Future 

45:13 – Closing Thoughts 

You and your firm can get hacked. It happens. Bad people want to get into your firm. They can dig through your email. They can get into your Microsoft 365 One Drive or Google accounts. Guest Adam Alexander, president of the Orlando-based IT firm Internetwork IT, explains two recent breaches, how they happened and how much damage hackers can do. 

Once inside, hackers can hold your business – and your reputation – for ransom. The scary part? While evil doers are worming through your data, you may not even know it.   

In this important episode, even if you think you know all about security, take a moment to get your head around the latest threats and safeguards. What’s an admin account? What’s two-factor authentication? Who holds the key to your kingdom? If you haven’t thought about this for a while, today’s the day. 

Questions or ideas about solo and small practices? Drop us a line at NewSolo@legaltalknetwork.com, 

Topics:

• Cyber security should be your firm’s top priority. If you think your firm is “too small” for hackers to target, you could be in for a nasty surprise. 
• Authentications, password management, and encrypted emails are the rule, not the exception. Security is everybody’s business. 
• The tools you probably use today, including Microsoft and Google, include advanced security options. How to take advantage of them.

Barron breaks down why Excel is one of the most underused tools in law firms and shares examples like expense tracking, probate calculations, medical bill summaries, date calculators, amortization tables, document automation, and even embedding live spreadsheets inside Word. 

If Excel feels intimidating, Barron explains how even simple functions can dramatically improve workflows across litigation, estate planning, family law, real estate, and firm operations. 

Listen to our previous episodes on legal tech tools and smarter workflows: 

• #497: Real Talk About Artificial Intelligence in Your Office, with Ben Schorr Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• #581: Agentic AI for Lawyers: Moving Beyond Enhanced Search, with Drew Bloom Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• #587: Future-Proofing Your Firm in the Age of AI, with Jack Newton Apple | Spotify | LTN  

Listen to our previous episodes on Finances: 

• #306: Getting to Know & Love Your Numbers, with Bernadette Harris Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• #583: From Survival to Strategy: Scaling Your Law Firm Finances, with Bernadette Harris Apple | Spotify | LTN 

Have thoughts about today’s episode? Join the conversation on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and X! 

 If today’s podcast resonates with you and you haven’t read The Small Firm Roadmap Revisited yet, get the first chapter right now for free! Looking for help beyond the book? See if our coaching community is right for you. 

Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com. 

Chapters / Timestamps: 

0:00 – Why lawyers should look at their numbers
4:17 – AI updates from 8AM (MyCase/Docketwise)
13:46 – Why Excel is the most underused tool in law
17:35 – What Excel can do that lawyers don’t expect
23:25 – Templates, formulas & real practice examples
31:27 – Using Excel for automation & mail merges
37:32 – Everyday lawyer workflows made easier with Excel
41:23 – Final takeaways 

Listen to our previous episodes about Law Firm Innovation & Sustainable Growth:  

• Rethinking Law Firm Growth in the Age of AI, with Sam Harden Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• #553: AI Tools and Processes Every Lawyer Should Use with Catherine Sanders Reach Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• #550: Beyond Content: How AI is Changing Law Firm Marketing, with Gyi Tsakalakis and Conrad Saam Apple | Spotify | LTN 

Have thoughts about today’s episode? Join the conversation on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and X! 

If today’s podcast resonates with you and you haven’t read The Small Firm Roadmap Revisited yet, get the first chapter right now for free! Looking for help beyond the book? See if our coaching community is right for you. 

Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com. 

Chapters / Timestamps:  

00:00 – Introduction with Stephanie & Zack 

05:52 – Meet Jordan Couch 

07:12 – 411 Tips for Lawyers 

09:48 – Pick Your Lane 

13:51 – Client Service Matters 

16:26 – Handling Client Frustration 

21:12 – The Trial Is Always Happening 

24:35 – Write Like a Human 

34:20 – Practice Creativity 

37:38 – The Future of Law 

46:00 – Closing Thoughts 

Hear the original episode with Matthew Moeller

Learn more about ALPS Insurance. 

Receive email notifications every time we release a new episode.

Jack explains how Clio’s new AI-powered platform, Clio Work, is transforming the way lawyers practice—by integrating intelligent automation directly into everyday tasks. Together, they explore what it means to become an “AI-native” law firm, how to balance innovation with ethics, and why small firms are uniquely positioned to lead the legal industry’s next big shift. 

Learn how to use AI as a force multiplier in your practice—and why adaptability, not size, will define tomorrow’s most successful law firms. 

Listen to our previous episodes about AI & Law Firm Growth:  

• Episode #584: “How to Stay Human in the Age of AI-Driven Law Firm Marketing, with Conroy Creative” Apple | Spotify | LTN  

• Episode #577: “Rethinking Law Firm Growth in the Age of AI, with Sam Harden” Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• Episode #565: “Becoming the AI Driven Leader, with Geoff Woods” Apple | Spotify | LTN  

• Episode #562: “Beyond ChatGPT: The AI Revolution Happening Inside Your Firm, with Charreau Bell” Apple | Spotify | LTN  

Have thoughts about today’s episode? Join the conversation on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and X! 

If today’s podcast resonates with you and you haven’t read The Small Firm Roadmap Revisited yet, get the first chapter right now for free! Looking for help beyond the book? See if our coaching community is right for you. 

Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com. 

Chapters / Timestamps:  

0:00 – Introduction & ClioCon Recap 

2:00 – Growth Stages of Small Firms 

5:10 – Clio for Enterprise Explained 

7:45 – Why Small Firms Have the Advantage 

10:30 – How AI Is Changing Legal Work 

13:15 – Making AI Adoption Effortless 

16:00 – Trust, Data & the Hallucination Problem 

20:00 – Building the AI-Native Law Firm 

22:30 – Staying Competitive in the Age of Change 

24:40 – Closing Thoughts 

 Learn how you can join the ABA’s fight for the rule of law here: https://www.americanbar.org/groups/public_education/resources/rule-of-law/ 

Listen to our previous episodes about Leadership & Advocacy in Law:  

• Episode 490: “How to Build a Powerhouse Firm with Internal Talent, with Ryan McKeen” Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• Episode 560: “Stop Doing Everything Yourself! Unlock Your Law Firm’s True Potential, with Leticia DeSuze” Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• Episode 576: “How Sponsorship, Empathy, and Failure Shape Great Leaders, with Michael Cohen” Apple | Spotify | LTN 

Have thoughts about today’s episode? Join the conversation on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and X! 

If today’s podcast resonates with you and you haven’t read The Small Firm Roadmap Revisited yet, get the first chapter right now for free! Looking for help beyond the book? See if our coaching community is right for you. 

Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com. 

Chapters / Timestamps:  

0:00 – Introduction 

1:00 – Law as Political, Not Partisan 

4:40 – Sponsor Break: Tabs3 

11:13 – Meet Bill Bay 

12:20 – What the Rule of Law Means 

14:40 – Threats to Justice & the Profession 

21:55 – How Lawyers Can Take Action 

23:40 – Grace & Civility in Practice 

29:05 – Hope for the Next Generation 

34:20 – Call to Action & Closing Thoughts 

From conflict checks and engagement letters to managing matters in Clio and working with virtual assistants, Chad shares how documenting your processes can help your firm grow smoothly and ethically. Plus, Adriana Linares and Rio Laine from ALPS Insurance break down why consistent intake procedures and clear engagement letters are key to avoiding malpractice claims and protecting your peace of mind.

Hear the original episode with Chad Burton

Learn more about ALPS Insurance. 

Receive email notifications every time we release a new episode.

Discover why legal leaders are embracing mental health training as a core business skill, and how a few key mindset shifts can protect both your well-being and your practice. 

Links from the episode: 

http://www.jillkluesnerconsulting.com 

https://www.soumyapalreddyconsulting.com/ 

Listen to our previous episodes about Legal Professional Wellness.  

• #375: Taking Care of Your Team’s Mental Health, with Calvin Benton Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• #469: Lawyers in Crisis: Navigating Addiction and Mental Health, with Brian Cuban Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• #473: Redefining Perfectionism and Striving for Lawyers, with Stephanie Villinski and Kara Hardin Apple | Spotify | LTN 

Have thoughts about today’s episode? Join the conversation on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and X! 

If today’s podcast resonates with you and you haven’t read The Small Firm Roadmap Revisited yet, get the first chapter right now for free! Looking for help beyond the book? See if our coaching community is right for you. 

Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com. 

Chapters / Timestamps:  

00:00 – Introduction & ClioCon Recap
03:45 – What Is Mental Health First Aid?
06:10 – Training for the Legal Mind
08:45 – Breaking the Stigma: Talking About Mental Health at Work
11:32 – Signs, Symptoms & What to Notice
15:55 – The First Aid Framework: How to Help
19:20 – Leadership, Culture & Modeling Wellness
22:58 – From Self-Care to Community Care
26:40 – Practical Steps for Teams
29:10 – Final Takeaways & How to Get Trained
30:45 – Closing Thoughts & Resources 

Karin explains why lawyers shouldn’t fear AI, but should learn to use it strategically. From the “Iron Man vs. Terminator” analogy to practical steps for improving your firm’s marketing funnel, she shares how attorneys can blend technology and human insight to build trust, attract the right clients, and stay ahead of the curve. 

They also dig into how AI is reshaping SEO, the importance of authenticity, and why marketing fundamentals still matter more than ever. 

Links from this episode: 

Conroy Creative Counsel 

The AI Marketing Cookbook for Lawyers 

Listen to our previous episodes with Karin: 

• #559: The Imitation Trap: Lessons from 15 Years of Top Law Firm Websites , with Conroy Creative Counsel (Sponsored) Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• #546: Unlock Law Firm Growth: AI marketing Secrets with Karin Conroy Apple | Spotify | LTN 

Have thoughts about today’s episode? Join the conversation on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and X! 

If today’s podcast resonates with you and you haven’t read The Small Firm Roadmap Revisited yet, get the first chapter right now for free! Looking for help beyond the book? See if our coaching community is right for you. 

Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com. 

Chapters / Timestamps: 

0:00 – The evolution of law firm marketing
3:50 – AI’s rise and the Iron Man vs. Terminator analogy
9:50 – Understanding your marketing funnel
12:00 – Why referrals are marketing
17:00 – Finding weak points in your strategy
21:00 – Adding AI without losing the human touch
25:30 – How AI is changing SEO and “Search Everywhere Optimization”
37:40 – The value of authenticity and human connection 

Bernadette breaks down the financial metrics that define a mature, transferable law firm, what she calls the difference between working in your business and having your business work for you. Together, they explore the KPIs that show when your team, not just you, is generating revenue, how to measure leverage across roles, and how to build systems that make your firm valuable enough to sell or pass on. 

Bernadette also shares what succession planning really looks like for small firms, why client origination should be team-wide, and how to start laying the groundwork, no matter your current stage of growth. 

Listen to our previous episodes with Bernadette: 

• #557: KPIs for Lawyers: Measuring Your Law Firm’s Financial Health with Bernadette Harris Apple | Spotify | LTN 
• #523: Financial Red Flags: Are You Hiring Too Soon?, with Bernadette Harris Apple | Spotify | LTN 
• #457: Healthy Profits: Understanding the Story Your Numbers Tell, with Bernadette Harris Apple| Spotify | LTN 

If today’s podcast resonates with you and you haven’t read The Small Firm Roadmap Revisited yet, get the first chapter right now for free! Looking for help beyond the book? See if our coaching community is right for you. 

 Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com. 

Chapters/Timestamps: 

0:00 – Introduction: Running and Community at LabCon
2:40 – The Power of Accountability and Growth Communities
5:40 – Advanced Firm Finances: Stage 3 & 4 Growth
8:45 – Shifting from Survival to Strategy
11:35 – Measuring Leverage: Who’s Doing the Work?
14:45 – Tracking Revenue by Role, Not Hours
19:15 – When Owners Should Stop Doing Casework
23:00 – Building Transferable Value
25:40 – Succession Planning and Client Origination
29:10 – Systems, SOPs, and True Scalability
33:20 – How to Reach the Next Stage
35:10 – Closing Thoughts & Resources 

• How do you implement origination percentages when a new attorney joins the firm. What’s important is clarity, making sure everyone knows who originated the case (and how, including prior websites, phone numbers, and relationships) and how those payments will be calculated.
• What if your new hire has a few existing cases in the pipeline? Can a new hire continue to work independently to wrap up existing cases on the side? Would these cases involve your professional liability policies or include the new hire using the legal software your firm pays for? 
• On any team, different members prefer different communication channels. But it’s important to develop consistent policies. Consistency matters because in a law firm, speed of retrieval trumps speed of information flow. The ability for any member to see the entire case at a glance is vital.

Ask us anything for the Community Table. Leave us a question online

Join the next Community Table discussion live! Always the third Thursday of the month at 3 p.m. Eastern

Over the past decade, there’s been a focus on mental health, stress, and substance abuse in the profession. Meeting deadlines, satisfying clients, and the sometimes-confrontational nature of the job can take a toll, especially on lawyers in small practices or rural area where support can be lacking. 

Newbold shares insights from ALPS’ recent report, “The State of the Solo: Positive Trends in Solo Attorney Well-Being,” which he helped deliver. The study made a special effort to include small and rural practices. A healthy lawyer is a good lawyer, Newbold says. Taking care of yourself helps you better serve your clients. 

Questions or ideas about solo and small practices? Drop us a line at NewSolo@legaltalknetwork.com  

Topics:

• • Attorneys in solo or small firms are uniquely susceptible to the effects of stress. It’s a hard job. But the right tech, paired with a mindful approach and managed workload, can reduce that stress. Taking care of yourself ultimately benefits your clients.
    
  • Practicing in a solo or small firm or in rural areas can have its benefits, and surveys show those attorneys are finding job satisfaction and taking time off when needed. But there are also unique stresses and the potential to feel alone or overburdened.
  • Workload and cash flow are among the biggest stressors facing attorneys. Stress can lead to mistakes (and malpractice), so be mindful of where you are and how much you can handle. If you own your own practice, don’t let your practice own you.

Resources:

“The State of the Solo: Positive Trends in Solo Attorney Well-Being,” ALPS Insurance

“The Path to Lawyer Well-Being: Practical Recommendations for Positive Change” 

Previous appearance on the Legal Talk Network, The Digital Age podcast, “The Insurance Industry Studies the Future of Law Practice” 

Mental Health Resources, American Bar Association

Law Student Mental Health Day, Oct. 10, ABA

ABA Techshow 2026

Clio Cloud Conference 2025

Merisa explains how deepfakes and realistic scams are creating new challenges for diligence and verification, why unregulated chatbots can accidentally create attorney-client relationships, and what disclosures lawyers should make when using AI tools. She also shares practical steps to maintain confidentiality, protect client data, and apply long-standing ethics rules to fast-changing technologies. 

Links from the episode:  

ABA Formal Opinion 512 – Generative AI 

ABA Formal Opinion 510 – Prospective Clients & Rule 1.18 

Listen to our previous episodes about non-lawyer ownership: 

• #354: A Look at the New Non-lawyer Firm Ownership Reform, with Lori Gonzalez: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Lawyerist 

• #355: A Look at the New Non-lawyer Firm Ownership Reform, Pt.2, with Allen Rodriguez: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Lawyerist 

• #221: The State of the Legal Profession, with ABA President Robert M. Carlson: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Lawyerist 

Have thoughts about today’s episode? Join the conversation on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and X!  

If today’s podcast resonates with you and you haven’t read The Small Firm Roadmap Revisited yet, get the first chapter right now for free! Looking for help beyond the book? See if our coaching community is right for you.  

Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com. 

Chapters / Timestamps:  

0:00 – ClioCon
4:45 – Meet Merisa Bowers
6:50 – Tech Shifts & New Ethics Risks
9:10 – Deepfakes & Diligence
13:40 – AI Scams & Fake Clients
18:30 – Chatbots Creating Clients 

23:40 – Ethical Chatbot Models
26:45 – Should Lawyers Disclose AI?
29:40 – Don’t Let AI Think for You
34:20 – Protecting Client Data
36:10 – Staying Ethical with AI
37:40 – Wrap-Up & Final Thoughts 

Drew explains what this shift means for law firms, what tools are likely to appear in the next 12–24 months, and why preparing your data—through structure, metadata, and integrations—matters more than ever. He also shares practical ways to start experimenting with AI connectors in tools you already use, so you’re ready when agentic features become standard in everyday legal work. 

Listen to our other episodes on AI in Law: 

• #577: Rethinking Law Firm Growth in the Age of AI, with Sam Harden Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• #565: Becoming the AI Driven Leader, with Geoff Woods Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• #562: Beyond ChatGPT: The AI Revolution Happening Inside Your Firm, with Charreau Bell Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• #553: AI Tools and Processes Every Lawyer Should Use, with Catherine Sanders Reach Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• #543: What Lawyers Need to Know About the Ethics of Using AI, with Hilary Gerzhoy Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• #538: AI Is Making Law Firms Obsolete, with Alistair Vigier Apple | Spotify | LTN 

If today’s podcast resonates with you and you haven’t read The Small Firm Roadmap Revisited yet, get the first chapter right now for free! Looking for help beyond the book? See if our coaching community is right for you. 

Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com. 

Chapters/Timestamps: 

0:00 – Introduction & Conferences Recap 

2:48 – From SEO to AEO: The New Search Frontier 

6:34 – Meet Drew Bloom: AI for Law Firms 

8:48 – What Makes AI “Agentic”? 

13:47 – Assistants vs. Agents: How They Differ 

16:00 – Redlining & Real-World Use Cases 

20:41 – MCPs and Custom AI Connections 

27:30 – The Future: Multi-Tool AI & Mobility 

29:48 – Preparing Your Firm: Data & Metadata 

34:38 – Where Lawyers Can Experiment Safely 

You’ll hear how law firms can leverage AI beyond parlor tricks, why “moonshine marketing” doesn’t cut it anymore, and what lawyers need to know about AEO (AI Engine Optimization) versus traditional SEO. Zack and Jake also discuss the future of client search behavior, how to avoid overhyping trends, and why sticking to fundamentals will always matter. 

If you’re curious about using AI in your practice, but don’t want to waste time on gimmicks, this episode will give you a roadmap to experiment wisely, protect your marketing investment, and grow sustainably. 

Listen to our other episodes on Law Firm Marketing, Growth and AI: 

• #577: Rethinking Law Firm Growth in the Age of AI, with Sam Harden Apple | Spotify | LTN
• #550: Beyond Content: How AI is Changing Law Firm Marketing, with Gyi Tsakalakis & Conrad Saam Apple | Spotify | LTN
• #434: Leverage AI to Stay Ahead, with Greg Siskind Apple | Spotify | LTN

If today’s podcast resonates with you and you haven’t read The Small Firm Roadmap Revisited yet, get the first chapter right now for free! Looking for help beyond the book? See if our coaching community is right for you. 

Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com. 

Chapters: 

0:00 – Introduction with Zack Glaser
1:27 – Meet Jake Soffer of FirmPilot
2:17 – How AI Is Changing Legal Marketing
3:12 – Data-Driven Law Firm Growth
4:46 – The Limits of ChatGPT Content
7:12 – Building Smarter AI Workflows
9:23 – AEO, GEO, and the Future of Search
11:59 – Why Fundamentals Still Matter
14:45 – Writing for AI vs. Writing for Clients
17:05 – First Steps for Lawyers Using AI
18:33 – Do Your Research Before Choosing Tools
19:10 – Where to Find FirmPilot 

As the firm has evolved, there has been some rebranding and the addition of new attorneys, employees, and tech tools. Today, Schierberg specializes in elder law at his firm Stages Elder Care Law. 

Hear how Schierberg has learned to hire associates so he can focus on “buying back his time” to grow the business. Understand your strengths, find areas where your time is wasted, and delegate or apply tech solutions to make your firm run more efficiently. 

Schierberg picked a niche – elder care law – and has made it his home. It’s what he cares about, helping seniors and families create estate and care plans and address all of those “what ifs” as they arise. Hear how he adapts everything from his corporate colors to his daily wardrobe to make clients comfortable and create a strong, memorable, and trusted brand.

Questions or ideas about solo and small practices? Drop us a line at NewSolo@legaltalknetwork.com  

Topics:

• We’re checking in on Andrew Schierberg who finished his first career as a police chief and then opened his own law firm two years ago.
• Time wasting pinch points can siphon off your energy and productivity. Identify those areas and address them.
  
• Finding a niche service area can set your firm apart and create a sense of satisfaction that keeps you focused and helps you work on important, big picture goals.

Resources:

The Gap and the Gain: The High Achievers’ Guide to Happiness, Confidence, and Success
Lawmatics
ABA Techshow 2026
Gyi Tsakalakis legal marketing
Lunch Hour Legal Marketing with Gyi Tsakalakis and Conrad Saam
Mycase
“How to Buy a Domain Name,” Cloudflare
Life Care Planning Law Firms Association
Actionstep legal software
Clio Cloud Conference 2025
Clio Legal Trends Report
Microsoft Lift

Amy explains why outstanding checks can create big compliance risks, what escheatment rules really require, and why three-way reconciliation is a must. She also breaks down why QuickBooks alone isn’t enough and how a few simple steps can keep you out of trouble. Lawyers will walk away with clear guidance to safeguard client funds, prepare for audits, and protect their law licenses. 

Listen to our other episodes on risk management & ethics: 

• #572 – Practical Courage Skills Every Lawyer Needs, with Jim Detert Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• #543: AI Ethics: What Lawyers Need to Know, with Hilary Gerzhoy Apple | Spotify | LTN

• #491 – Crafting Your Purpose-Driven Leadership Vision, with Leticia DeSuze Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• #447 – Managing Risk in Your Firm, with Allison Shields Apple | Spotify | LTN 

If today’s podcast resonates with you and you haven’t read The Small Firm Roadmap Revisited yet, get the first chapter right now for free! Looking for help beyond the book? See if our coaching community is right for you. 

Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com. 

Chapters/Timestamps: 

00:00 – Bots in Job Interviews and Introduction 

04:14 – Meet Amy Woods: IOLTA Consulting 

05:14 – Why Trust Accounts Feel Like a “Ticking Time Bomb” 

06:58 – Common Mistakes Lawyers Miss 

09:22 – Escheatment & Outstanding Checks 

12:30 – Penalties, Interest & Voluntary Disclosure 

14:31 – Retainer Clauses & Small Check Workarounds 

16:18 – Three-Way Reconciliation Explained 

18:00 – QuickBooks vs. Legal-Specific Tools 

21:43 – One Account, Many Clients: Why Details Matter 

23:55 – Amy’s Compliance Review Service 

25:08 – Real Consequences: From Penalties to Disbarment 

26:26 – Final Takeaways 

For lawyers, better memory means stronger courtroom performance, sharper deposition prep, and the ability to remember case law, client details, and names with confidence in moments where every word matters. Nelson also highlights how memory training reduces stress, supports long-term brain health, and helps professionals stay present in high-stakes moments. 

Learn about actionable memory improvement techniques with insights on why training your brain matters more than ever in today’s fast-paced legal and technological world. 

Listen to our other episodes on memory and mental performance:

• #405: The Diverse Ways People Think, with Temple Grandin Apple | Spotify | LTN
• #427: Better Decisions, Less Fatigue, with Nika Kabiri Apple | Spotify | LTN
• #560: Stop Doing Everything Yourself! Unlock Your Law Firm’s True Potential, with Leticia DeSuze Apple | Spotify | LTN

Links from the episode:
Nelsondellis.com 

Remember It! 

Paxton.ai 

If today’s podcast resonates with you and you haven’t read The Small Firm Roadmap Revisited yet, get the first chapter right now for free! Looking for help beyond the book? See if our coaching community is right for you. 

 Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com. 

Chapters: 

0:00 – Introduction  

7:50 – Legal Tech Spotlight: Paxton AI for Lawyers
17:56 – Meet Nelson Dellis: Memory Champion & Author
23:19 – How Anyone Can Improve Memory
27:40 – Visualization, Storytelling & Review Basics
33:42 – The Memory Palace Technique Explained
36:36 – Digital Tools vs. Training Your Brain
41:25 – Memory, Mindfulness & Staying Present
44:58 – Practical Memory Training for Lawyers 

Ideal for growth-minded lawyers, firm leaders, and legal innovators who want to use AI strategically to scale smarter, serve better, and stay ahead. 

Links From the Episode: 

https://samharden.substack.com/ 

https://legaltalknetwork.com/podcasts/for-the-innocent/ 

https://tabs3.com/seetabs3/ 

Listen to our other episodes on AI & Legal Innovation: 

• #565: Becoming the AI Driven Leader, with Geoff Woods Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• #562: Beyond ChatGPT: The AI Revolution Happening Inside Your Firm, with Charreau Bell Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• #555: How to Use AI and Universal Design to Empower Diverse Thinkers with Susan Tanner Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• #553: AI Tools and Processes Every Lawyer Should Use with Catherine Sanders Reach Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• #452: Managing AI in Your Practice, with Ed Walters Apple | Spotify | LTN 

If today’s podcast resonates with you and you haven’t read The Small Firm Roadmap Revisited yet, get the first chapter right now for free! Looking for help beyond the book? See if our coaching community is right for you. 

Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com. 

Chapters/Timestamps: 

00:00 – Welcome & What Legal Talk Network Is 

04:33 – Building a Modern Legal Tech Stack 

10:33 – Meet Sam Harden: From Trial Lawyer to Innovator 

16:38 – AI in Law: Efficiency vs. Growth 

23:53 – The Risks of Replacing People with Technology 

31:46 – Vibe Coding and the Future of Legal Tech 

44:57 – Looking Ahead: Sam’s Vision as Innovation Strategist 

From splitting receptionist hours and copier leases to balancing friendship with professionalism, Conti and Barbara explain how their shared setup helped them avoid loneliness, strengthen their brands, and keep their autonomy while enjoying the benefits of teamwork. Later, ALPS Insurance’s Rio Laine joins Adriana to highlight the risks and rewards of these unconventional arrangements and why clear boundaries, role definitions, and coverage conversations are key to making them work.

Hear the original episode with Conti Moore and Barbara Leach 

Learn more about ALPS Insurance. 

Receive email notifications every time we release a new episode.

Mike shares his journey from employment litigator to building a training and coaching practice focused on culture, mental health, and leadership. He explains why sponsorship goes further than mentorship, how to adapt your style to truly know your people, and why allowing room for failure is essential to innovation. 

Drawing on stories from coaching his daughters’ softball team and lessons inspired by The West Wing, Mike highlights how intentional check-ins, vulnerability, and empathy can transform leaders into authentic allies. You’ll leave with practical strategies to foster stronger workplace cultures, empower people to advocate for themselves, and lead with greater humanity in challenging times. 

Listen to our other episodes on leadership & growth. 

• #572 – Practical Courage Skills Every Lawyer Needs, with Jim Detert Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• #527 – Casting Your Vision and Leading Your Firm, with Kevin DeShazo Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• #499 – Conquering Self-Doubt, with Tim Atler Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• #491 – Crafting Your Purpose-Driven Leadership Vision, with Leticia DeSuze Apple | Spotify | LTN 

If today’s podcast resonates with you and you haven’t read The Small Firm Roadmap Revisited yet, get the first chapter right now for free! Looking for help beyond the book? See if our coaching community is right for you. 

Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com. 

Chapters/Timestamps: 

00:00 – Growth, AI & Leadership at Lawyerist 

06:01 – Small Team vs. Large Team Leadership 

08:10 – Meet Michael Cohen 

12:05 – From Litigator to Leadership Coach 

22:02 – Lessons from Coaching & Embracing Failure 

34:46 – West Wing Parable & Final Takeaways 

This is a fun episode because before they hung out a shingle, Blachford and Sui listened to the entire New Solo podcast library, building an understanding of a solo practice as host Adriana Linares and her guests discussed the challenges, and solutions, new practitioners encounter. Soon after they opened, the duo joined Linares for a podcast to share what they found to be the most impactful episodes. 

So, how did that work out for Blachford and Sui? Four years later, hear what they learned from New Solo and how they put it all to work their firm. Bookkeeping, accounting, systems and processes, collections, clear goals, and careful documentation are all part of the firm’s success.

The firm considered hiring a junior attorney but instead leaned into tech by hiring a remote assistant (in the Philippines) and a human resources consultant. And (of course) this wouldn’t be a New Solo podcast with a whole bunch of cutting edge legal tech solutions.

Questions or ideas about solo and small practices? Drop us a line at NewSolo@legaltalknetwork.com  

Topics:

• Guests Dean Blachford and Ella Sui started their New Solo practice by listening to the catalog of New Solo episodes. Four years later, hear how that worked out and how they learned to incorporate processes, procedures, remote help, and the latest tech.
  
• In a small firm, it’s important colleagues’ workloads. People may not always tell you when they are overloaded. Know when it’s time to bring on help, whether in person, with a remote assistant, or through better technical tools and programs.

Don’t wait to document and establish clear processes, and stress those to new assistants. The things you put off early never get done. Document and follow your processes in the moment, don’t procrastinate.

Listen to our other episodes on Law Firm Leadership: 

#569 Your Head Is a Crappy Office, and Other GTD Principles for Attorneys, with David Allen Apple | Spotify | LTN 

#564 The Gift in the Struggle: Leveraging Emotional Intelligence for Growth, with Sara Muender Apple | Spotify | LTN 

#560: Stop Doing Everything Yourself! Unlock Your Law Firm’s True Potential, with Leticia DeSuze  Apple | Spotify | LTN 

If today’s podcast resonates with you and you haven’t read The Small Firm Roadmap Revisited yet, get the first chapter right now for free! Looking for help beyond the book? See if our coaching community is right for you. 

Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com. 

Chapters/Timestamps: 

00:00 – Introduction: Creating Space to Think Differently 

06:16 – Meet Chad Fox 

07:12 – The Overwhelm Stage 

08:33 – Finding Hope Through Clarity 

11:24 – Dreaming Big Beyond ‘What’s Realistic’ 

15:00 – From Operator to Owner 

17:09 – Building Teams & Managing Perceptions 

20:16 – The $20 Task Trap 

23:44 – What Being a CEO Lawyer Looks Like 

25:50 – Success Story: From Chaos to Growth 

26:50 – Final Takeaway: It Doesn’t Have to Be So Hard 

In this episode, Zack Glaser talks with Professor Rebecca Sandefur (Arizona State University, American Bar Foundation) and Matthew Burnett (Georgetown Law, ABF) about their research on community justice workers and why people-centered solutions may be the key to closing the justice gap. 

They explore how community justice workers operate in Alaska and beyond, why legal help doesn’t always have to come from lawyers, and how rules around unauthorized practice of law are evolving. You’ll hear evidence that trained non-lawyers can be just as effective—sometimes more so—than attorneys in resolving critical issues like housing or benefits. 

Rebecca and Matthew also discuss what “success” really means: scalable, sustainable programs that meet people where they are, in their own communities, in their own language. And they argue that broadening access to justice isn’t just about legal services—it’s about strengthening democracy itself. 

This episode is for lawyers, policymakers, and innovators who want to reimagine how legal help is delivered—and build a justice system that actually works for the people it’s meant to serve. 

Additionally, Zack and Stephanie talk about the upcoming ClioCon 2025 in Boston, MA. Check out the conference and get your tickets at cliocon.com. Use the code “LawyeristxClioCon” for a $300 discount on your ticket. 

Listen to our other episodes on Access To Justice: 

• #129: The Business of Public Access to Law, with Tim Stanley  

• Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• #228: The Real Access-to-Justice Problem and How We Might Solve It, with Rebecca Sandefur 

• Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• #423: Bridging the Access to Justice Gap with Technology, with Sateesh Nori 

• Apple | Spotify | LTN 

• #440: A Path to Meaningful Regulations, with Rebecca Sandefur 

• Apple | Spotify | LTN 

If today’s podcast resonates with you and you haven’t read The Small Firm Roadmap Revisited yet, get the first chapter right now for free! Looking for help beyond the book? See if our coaching community is right for you. 

Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com. 

Chapters/Timestamps: 

00:00 – Fall & ClioCon in Boston
05:24 – Meet Rebecca Sandefur & Matthew Burnett
06:50 – A People-Centered Justice Approach
11:08 – Community Justice Workers Explained
15:55 – Legal Help Without Lawyers
20:31 – What Success Really Looks Like
25:23 – State Models & Next Steps
34:30 – Scaling Justice & Strengthening Democracy
38:49 – Final Takeaways 

Kat shares research-backed insights on why friendships matter for well-being, how to integrate connection into your daily life without adding more to your to-do list, and ways to authentically connect with neighbors, colleagues, and acquaintances. Whether you’re looking to expand your circle, reconnect with old friends, or foster deeper ties in your professional network, this conversation offers actionable ideas you can start using today. 

Listen to our other episodes on Careers & Professional Development. 

Episode #572 – Practical Courage Skills Every Lawyer Needs, with Jim Detert (leadership and professional growth) Apple | Spotify | LTN 

Episode #567 – From Quiet to Confident: Redefining Success as an Introverted Lawyer, with Heidi Brown (confidence-building for career success) Apple | Spotify | LTN 

Episode #564 – The Gift in the Struggle: Leveraging Emotional Intelligence for Growth Apple | Spotify | LTN 

Episode #520 – The Truth About Lawyer Self‑Care: Prioritize or Suffer (personal well-being integral to professional longevity) Apple | Spotify | LTN 

If today’s podcast resonates with you and you haven’t read The Small Firm Roadmap Revisited yet, get the first chapter right now for free! Looking for help beyond the book? See if our coaching community is right for you. 

Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com. 

Links from the episode:  

 Learn More about LabCon 

We Should Get Together: The Secret to Cultivating Better Friendships 

Chapters: 

00:56 – Lab Con: Hands-On Business Building for Lawyers 

04:43 – Meet Kat Vellos: Author & Friendship Expert 

08:47 – Why Adults Have Fewer Close Friends Today 

13:44 – Finding Time for Friends & the “Seeds of Connection” 

16:20 – How to Meet Neighbors and Build Local Ties 

18:53 – Moving Beyond Small Talk with Meaningful Questions 

22:49 – Using Conversation Prompts to Connect at Work 

26:30 – Committing to Local Friendships & Staying Connected 

Kristen shares how she planned her transition from Rizzo Law to Rizzo Resolution, the value of becoming a subject-matter expert, and how she used branding, visibility, and pro bono work to launch a neutral practice with intention. Adriana is later joined by ALPS Insurance’s Rio Laine to explore how preparation, professional boundaries, and proper coverage help lawyers lower risk during big career pivots.

Hear the original episode with Kristin Rizzo 

Learn more about ALPS Insurance. 

Receive email notifications every time we release a new episode.

Together, they explore why speaking up at work is so hard, how fear and stress shape behavior, and what lawyers can do to build confidence over time. Jim introduces tools like the “courage ladder” to help professionals take small, strategic steps toward more effective and values-aligned leadership. 

Legal professionals will gain: 

• Skills to manage fear and prepare for high-stakes conversations 

• A framework for building everyday workplace courage 

• Insight into the cost of silence in legal practice 

• Guidance on how to align personal values with professional conduct

Ideal for lawyers, firm leaders, and legal professionals who want to take more intentional action in their work and leadership. 

Listen to our other episodes on personal leadership: 

 Episode 491: Crafting Your Purpose-Driven Leadership Vision, with Leticia DeSuze Apple | Spotify | LTN 

Episode 494: How to Stop Procrastination and Conquer Your To-Do List, with Paul Unger Apple | Spotify | LTN 

Episode 499: Conquering Self‑Doubt, with Tim Atler Apple | Spotify | LTN 

Episode 508: From Retreat to Rebrand, with Patricia Mancabelli Apple | Spotify | LTN 

If today’s podcast resonates with you and you haven’t read The Small Firm Roadmap Revisited yet, get the first chapter right now for free! Looking for help beyond the book? See if our coaching community is right for you. 

Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com. 

Chapters/Timestamps: 

0:00 – Contranyms & Clarity in Legal Language 

2:39 – Meet Jim Detert: Leadership Professor & Author of Choosing Courage 

3:18 – Why Speaking Up at Work Feels So Hard 

4:56 – Courage Is Not a Personality Trait: Debunking the Myths 

6:28 – Practicing Bravery Like a Skill: The Importance of Reps 

7:30 – Fear, Physiology, and Mindset: What’s Really Holding You Back 

10:40 – From Performance to Growth: Reframing Stress and Risk 

13:18 – How to Start Tough Conversations Without Fluff 

16:39 – When Courage Gets Risky: Speaking Up in Politicized Professions 

20:20 – Values vs. Aspirations: What Do You Really Stand For? 

26:51 – The Long-Term Costs of Staying Silent 

28:49 – Building a Courage Ladder: Start Small, Scale Up 

32:34 – First Steps to Practicing Everyday Courage 

33:34 – Final Reflections: Leading with Bravery at Work 

It’s been a few years since we talked, and the firm is thriving (so is Koenig). How did she fare in the past four years, building her own family and a law practice? Hear how she’s built a practice and supplemented her client work with contracted, side jobs to fill in slow spots. It’s all part of running a true solo practice.

Hear how Koenig new from the start she wanted to run a solo practice and stayed true to her aims, all without burning out. She’s built a firm on her own terms, focusing on helping families move on in their own direction on good terms. Her practice makes her feel happy and fulfilled, she only works with clients she feels good about, and she keeps humming along. Thinking of going solo? Koenig’s story will inspire you.

Questions or ideas about solo and small practices? Drop us a line at NewSolo@legaltalknetwork.com  

Topics:

• It can be done. Guest Cassandra Koening knew she wanted to run a solo practice, and checking in four years later we hear how she is making it work. 
• Technology and outsourcing are key components in a true solo practice. Learn how to source and maximize tech (and as we’ve said before, don’t try to be your own bookkeeper). 
• Not every day is packed with client meetings. Sometimes it takes a little contracted side work to keep the wheels spinning, and that’s OK.

Resources:

Previous appearance on New Solo, “How This New Lawyer Branded Her Firm With Aloha and Built a Happy Practice | First Flight #4” 

Previous appearance on New Solo, “A First Year Recap From a New Family Law Practitioner” 

Lawclerk.legal

ARAG

Google Analytics

Canva marketing materials

Clio Grow

Calendly

Otter AI

Chat GPT

Previous episode: “What’s New in Legal Financial Management? An Expert’s Perspective”

Clio Legal Tech

ABA Techshow 2026

Clio Cloud Conference 2025

Clio Legal Trends Report

The conversation explores how unconscious bias shows up in hiring and evaluation, why culture fit can be a red flag, and how to implement practical guardrails that promote fairness without needing a big HR department. Tanya also clears up legal misconceptions about DEI post–Supreme Court ruling and offers smart, research-backed tips for making firms more equitable—without making a scene. 

This episode is a thoughtful guide for law firm leaders who want to build stronger, fairer teams—one intentional decision at a time.  

Listen to our other episodes on DEI & Belonging: 

#450: The Power of Building Belonging, with Dr. Terrell Strayhorn Apple | Spotify | Lawyerist  

#105: How Small Firms Can Promote Diversity, with Dr. Heather Hackman Apple | Lawyerist 

#242: Brave, Not Perfect, with Reshma Saujani Apple | Lawyerist 

Have thoughts about today’s episode? Join the conversation on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and X!  

If today’s podcast resonates with you and you haven’t read The Small Firm Roadmap Revisited yet, get the first chapter right now for free! Looking for help beyond the book? See if our coaching community is right for you. 

Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com. 

Chapters/Timestamps: 

2:09 – Meet Professor Tanya Hernandez: DEI Legal Scholar 

2:44 – What DEI Really Means: The Civil Rights Foundation 

6:41 – Why Small Firms Should Care: The High Stakes of Small Teams 

9:46 – Culture Fit or Bias? Rethinking How We Hire 

17:04 – Guardrails: Tools to Catch Your Own Bias 

22:07 – Is Your Culture Inclusive? Rethinking Team Bonding 

24:04 – Where to Start: Learning from the Next Generation 

26:14 – Asking the Right Questions: Curiosity Without Burden 

28:27 – DEI Is Not Illegal: Clarifying Misconceptions 

30:54 – Skip the Slogans: Doing the Real Work Without Performative DEI 

In this episode, Zack Glaser and Stephanie Everett introduce the new Lawyerist Small Firm Scorecard, a tool that helps lawyers identify which stage their firm is in—and what to focus on next. 

Stephanie breaks down the four key stages of firm development, shares the reasoning behind the Scorecard’s redesign, and explains how understanding your stage changes everything: from hiring to marketing to long-term planning. 

Lawyerist Lab is evolving alongside the new scorecard, offering coaching clients a more personalized, stage-specific growth path. If you’re building a law firm with long-term goals, this episode will help you step back, recalibrate, and take the right action for where you are now. 

Listen to our other episodes on Law Firm Growth :  

• #568: How to Build a Law Firm You Can Sell, with Victoria L. Collier Apple | Spotify | Lawyerist 

• #560: Stop Doing Everything Yourself! Unlock Your Law Firm’s True Potential with Leticia Desuze Apple | Spotify | Lawyerist 

• #527: Casting Your Vision and Leading Your Firm, with Kevin DeShazo Apple | Spotify | Lawyerist 

• #522: The EOS Secret to Mastering Law Firm Challenges, with Mike Paton Apple | Spotify | Lawyerist 

Have thoughts about today’s episode? Join the conversation on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and X!  

If today’s podcast resonates with you and you haven’t read The Small Firm Roadmap Revisited yet, get the first chapter right now for free! Looking for help beyond the book? See if our coaching community is right for you. 

 Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com. 

Chapters/Timestamps: 

 0:00 – Episode Introduction and the Power of Unplugged Vacations 

4:49 – Tabs3 Spotlight: Practice Management That Adapts to You 

14:48 – Why the Small Firm Scorecard Got a Makeover

16:50 – Inside the New Scorecard: Defined Benchmarks, Real Clarity

19:10 – The Healthy Firm Model: The Six Pillars of Sustainable Growth

21:00 – Mapping Your Firm’s Stage: Launch, Build, Grow, or Exit

27:26 – Coaching Evolved: How the Scorecard Shapes Lawyerist Lab

30:58 – From Overwhelm to Focus: Coaching Like a Personal Trainer

34:38 – What to Do Next: Take the Scorecard, Get a Plan 

David shares the five key steps of the GTD framework and explains why a “clear mind” isn’t a luxury —it’s a leadership necessity. You’ll learn how to stop relying on your brain as a filing cabinet, how to set up simple systems that actually stick, and how to build a law firm culture where everyone knows what to do next. 

We also explore concepts from his new book, Team: Getting Things Done with Others, including how to reduce bottlenecks, clarify roles, and avoid burnout by working smarter not just harder. 

Whether you’re a solo lawyer juggling everything or a leader scaling a team, this episode will help you create space to think, lead, and grow. 

Listen to our other episodes on systems & productivity: 

#419: Free Yourself from Productivity, with Oliver Burkeman Apple | Spotify | Lawyerist

#514: The Hidden Value of Doing Less, with Leidy Klotz Apple | Spotify | Lawyerist

#485: Unleash Your Law Firm’s Potential with an Internal Coach, with Robin Carberry Apple | Spotify | Lawyerist

#516: Flexing Your Discipline Muscle to Stay Motivated, with Sara Muender Apple | Spotify | Lawyerist
 

Have thoughts about today’s episode? Join the conversation on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and X! 

If today’s podcast resonates with you and you haven’t read The Small Firm Roadmap Revisited yet, get the first chapter right now for free! Looking for help beyond the book? See if our coaching community is right for you. 

Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com. 

Chapters/Timestamps: 

00:00 – Introduction: What Is GTD and Why Lawyers Need It 

00:46 – Staying Ahead of the Wave: Zack’s GTD Takeaway 

02:18 – Brain Dumping for Clarity: A Lawyer Coaching Example 

05:34 – Introducing the Small Firm Scorecard 

09:54 – Meet David Allen: Creator of Getting Things Done (GTD) 

13:47 – Mind Like Water: The Mental State of True Productivity 

15:59 – Your Brain Is a Terrible Office: The 5 Steps of GTD 

24:52 – From Inbox to Action: Making Systems Stick 

27:06 – Avoiding Burnout with Weekly Reviews 

31:25 – From High Performer to Dysfunctional Team 

34:46 – The Soccer Analogy: Great Players Still Need Teamwork 

39:28 – The Power of Saying No: GTD’s Boldest Lesson 

42:32 – First Steps: Start by Capturing What’s on Your Mind 

From his decision to practice law on his own terms to hiring a care coordinator as his first team member, Andrew’s story is one of intentional design, service-driven values, and entrepreneurial smarts. Later in the episode, Adriana is joined by ALPS Insurance’s Rio Laine to talk about hiring smart, supervising staff, and how the right technology and documented workflows help safeguard your growing solo firm.

Hear the original episode with Andrew Schierberg

Learn more about ALPS Insurance. 

Receive email notifications every time we release a new episode.

Katya shares how her legal experience—spanning BigLaw, in-house, and solo practice—revealed pain points in the dealmaking process that technology still hadn’t solved. She explains how she went from identifying those issues to building software that brings clarity, organization, and efficiency to high-stakes legal work. 

Along the way, Katya unpacks: 

• The scrappy start to her legal career 

• How working solo gave her an edge inside a global corporate group 

• What legal professionals need to know about scaling their ideas 

• Why tech tools fail lawyers—and how that can change 

Whether you’re a lawyer thinking beyond the billable or simply curious how innovation happens in the legal world, this episode delivers practical insights with an entrepreneurial twist. 

Listen to our other episodes on entrepreneurship:  

#411: Staying Entrepreneurial at a Bigger Firm, with Nick Pleasants  Apple Podcast |  Lawyerist 

#268: Riding the Entrepreneurial Rollercoaster, with Cameron Herold Apple Podcast | Lawyerist  

#205: Entrepreneurial Poverty & Why Average Law Firms Lose, with Mike Michalowicz Apple Podcast | Lawyerist  

Have thoughts about today’s episode? Join the conversation on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and X! 

If today’s podcast resonates with you and you haven’t read The Small Firm Roadmap Revisited yet, get the first chapter right now for free! Looking for help beyond the book? See if our coaching community is right for you. 

Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com. 

Chapters/Timestamps: 

 00:00 Introduction: The Entrepreneurial Lawyer 

01:02 Quarterly Planning: Intentional Business Growth 

07:15 Solo Practice Origins: Scrappy Beginnings 

13:36 The Competitive Advantage of Broad Experience 

17:51 ADHD as a Superpower: Hyperfocus and Foresight 

23:36 Accurately Identify a Business Problem 

30:40 From Idea to Product: Building a Product or Workflow 

36:10 Articulating Vision and Gaining Buy-In 

41:14 Lessons Learned: Advice for Aspiring Innovators 

Kim shares how she carved her own path using legal tech, project management tools, and an unshakable drive to create a family-friendly law firm not just for herself, but to help other attorneys do the same. Later in the episode, Adriana and ALPS Insurance’s Rio Laine discuss how documenting procedures, adopting the right case management system, and creating a positive work culture can protect your practice and your peace of mind.

Hear the original episode with Kimberley Felton

Learn more about ALPS Insurance. 

Receive email notifications every time we release a new episode

Rachel and Allison identified a need for legal documents like powers of attorney and HIPAA releases when young people turn 18. They decided to join forces, sharing costs and leveraging their individual firm experiences to develop a product that serves both young adults and their parents. Beyond providing crucial legal forms, Safe Sendoff also includes an “Adulting 101” course, which educates young people on the responsibilities and rights that come with turning 18, covering topics from employment rules to filing taxes. 

Their discussion highlights a new service delivery model offering automated, cost-effective solutions. Rachel and Allison share how their experience running their individual law firms informed their approach to building Safe Sendoff, allowing them to expedite the process of defining their purpose, vision, and ideal client. They also emphasize the benefits of working with a shared coach through Lawyerist Lab, which helped keep them on track. You’ll learn about their commitment to transparent, upfront pricing and their focus on delivering valuable legal support through recorded explanations and automated processes, making high-quality legal information accessible at a fraction of the cost. 

If this discussion sparks questions about optimizing your firm’s operations or identifying new opportunities, consider exploring the “free small firm scorecard” at lawyerist.com/scorecard. It’s a quick assessment to help you get a data-driven view of your firm and identify areas for smart improvements as you embark on your own innovation journey. 

Listen to our other episodes: 

• #407: Serving Clients Through Alternative Business Structures, with Mike Payne and Chad Huebsch Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Lawyerist  

• #368: Using Strategy Intensives for Your Firm’s Success, with Anne Romanello Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Lawyerist  

• #320 A Labster Call, with Aaron Thomas Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Lawyerist  

 Have thoughts about today’s episode? Join the conversation on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and X! 

If today’s podcast resonates with you and you haven’t read The Small Firm Roadmap Revisited yet, get the first chapter right now for free! Looking for help beyond the book? See if our coaching community is right for you. 

Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com. 

Chapters/Timestamps: 

9:31 – Introducing Safe Sendoff: A New Venture

11:49 – The “Adulting 101” Component & Why Young Adults Need These Documents 15:14 – The Partnership Journey: Challenges and Synergies

17:48 – Building a Second Business Differently

22:46 – The Business Model: Beyond the Billable Hour

25:24 – Lessons Learned and Advice for Entrepreneurs

28:53 – What’s Next for Safe Sendoff: Marketing and Growth

Moving from older systems and into the cloud can open lots of doors, affordably. Even small firms can dig into today’s modern technology to help manage documents, accounting tasks, and more. 

Iron out the wrinkles in your data management, connect platforms, and work seamlessly and efficiently. Case management systems have evolved to include dashboards, workflows, document assembly, phone call and text messaging systems, and even accounting tech and credit card processing. Hear what Mackenzie looks for when he sets out to build the right-sized system for a law firm, whether that’s a solo practice or a large organization. 

Questions or ideas about solo and small practices? Drop us a line at NewSolo@legaltalknetwork.com  

Topics:

• Think your legal software and systems are fine because they’re what you’ve always used? Think again. Six months is an eternity in legal tech, and if you haven’t reviewed and renewed your software suite, you could be leaving money on the table. 
• Integrate everything, including your billing, collections, and your phone calls, into every part of your firm, from information management to confidential storage and efficient search and recall. 
• Your clients are texting more than ever. Today’s case management systems incorporate technology to securely receive, sort, and store text messages.

Resources:

Clio Legal Tech

MyCase

Smokeball

CARET (formerly Zola)

Leap

Neos

Dialpad

RingCentral

Ion8

Lightbulb

Slack

Quickbooks

MyFirmData

Zoho Invoice

Centerbase

Microsoft Teams

Universal Migrator

Actionstep

Dropbox Dash

ABA Techshow 2026 

Previously on New Solo, “Winning The Battle: When It’s Time To Modernize But There’s One Holdout” 

Previously on New Solo, guest Peggy Gruenke, “What’s New in Legal Financial Management? An Expert’s Perspective” 

Previously on New Solo, guest Amanda Moore, “Money Management 101 for Solo and Small Firm Professionals” 

Clio Cloud Conference 2025

Clio Legal Trends Report

This isn’t just theoretical—you’ll get real clarity on what it means to use AI well in your firm, right now. We break down the crucial difference between merely using an AI model and actually “training” one, so you understand what’s happening behind the scenes. You’ll also learn when it’s safe (and risky!) to send client data into cloud-based AI tools, and how you can even run powerful AI models right on your own computer for ultimate privacy. 

But here’s where it gets really exciting: we explore how AI is evolving beyond simple prompts into “agentic systems” that can plan, reason, and act on your behalf. Think of AI not just as a tool, but as a proactive assistant that can break down complex tasks and execute them using various “tools” you provide. This isn’t just about automating simple tasks; it’s about offloading work that previously required significant expertise, freeing you to focus on more creative and complex legal challenges. 

If this episode sparks questions about the data in your firm and how you can leverage it, check out the “free small firm scorecard”. It’s a quick assessment to help you get a data-driven view of your firm and identify areas for smart improvements as you embark on your AI journey. 

Listen to our other episodes about Artificial Intelligence:  

• #555: How to Use AI and Universal Design to Empower Diverse Thinkers with Susan Tanner Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Lawyerist 

• #553: AI Tools and Processes Every Lawyer Should Use with Catherine Sanders Reach Apple Podcasts  Spotify  Lawyerist  

• #551: Becoming the AI Driven Leader, with Geoff Woods Apple Podcasts  Spotify  Lawyerist  

Have thoughts about today’s episode? Join the conversation on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and X!  

If today’s podcast resonates with you and you haven’t read The Small Firm Roadmap Revisited yet, get the first chapter right now for free! Looking for help beyond the book? See if our coaching community is right for you. 

Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com 

Chapters/Timestamps: 

00:00 – Introduction: Beyond Simple AI Prompts 

03:20 – How Data Science Helps Lawyers 

04:32 – Automating Document Review and Information Extraction 

07:10 – Understanding How AI Models Work (Training vs. Using) 

13:25 – Secure AI: Running Models Locally and with Cloud Providers 

17:16 – Training AI Models with Limited Data (Transfer Learning) 

28:16 – The Power of Agentic AI Systems 

34:24 – Interacting with Agentic AI and Security Considerations 

38:21 – The Importance of Data Organization in the Age of AI 

43:46 – The Future of AI: Automating the Unwanted 

From creating a business plan with heart to growing a referral network through community events and Instagram, Cassandra shares how authenticity helped her attract the right clients. Plus, Adriana Linares and Rio Laine from ALPS Insurance break down how choosing the right tech, building good habits, and learning when to say no can keep your practice and your peace of mind on track from day one.

Here the original episode with Cassandra Koeing

Learn more about ALPS Insurance 

Receive email notifications every time we release a new episode

Hear how Phoebus struck out at first on his own, then partnered with trusted colleagues and built a reputation so strong in their region they are known largely either by their last names or by Phoebus’ nickname, “The Crab Lawyer.” 

To manage a heavy case load in a boutique firm and sift through massive piles of evidence, even decades of medical records for a single case, Phoebus leans into tech, often tinkering with new products and pushing for greater capabilities when taking his small firm into battle against much larger, deep pocket firms. 

Technology can help you market online, take clients from inquiry to retainer, and create repeatable, dependable case management systems that deliver a consistent experience to clients, build your reputation, and maximize outcomes time after time. 

Questions or ideas about solo and small practices? Drop us a line at NewSolo@legaltalknetwork.com  

Topics:

• For small firms, a strong tech arsenal (and yes, that means AI as well) turns Davids into Goliaths. Go toe-to-toe with the biggest firms with a robust stable of tech tools, even sort through decades of medical records, sort multiple body camera videos, and help you read a brief through the eyes of a judge and jury. 
• Owning multiple online domain names can help you extend your reach without creating more work, they can all point back to the same website while protecting you from “poachers” who want to latch onto your reputation.
• How do you know you’ve “made it” in the legal world? When you’re known only by your last name. That’s a reputation. 

Hear the original episode with Philip Mauriello.

Learn more about ALPS Insurance. 

Receive email notifications every time we release a new episode.

Having worked for large firms, Greenlee realized she wanted to control her own business, use the technology that worked for her, and manage her own calendar and cases. But as so many have noted, you learn the law in law school – not business management. 

Hear how Greenlee leaned on family experiences, mentors, and her own trial and error to keep the lights on, keep the cases coming in the door, and stay organized and efficient. 

Here’s a hint, a lot of running a solo practice comes down to making a business decision and then outsourcing the implementation. Greenlee learned to delegate tasks, including accounting and technology management. And as she started to build her practice, she learned to find and hire the right assistants to manage day-to-day duties. She relies heavily on tech tools – the right tools, not cheap imitations – to eliminate the forest of paper documents that comes her way daily. 

Questions or ideas about solo and small practices? Drop us a line at NewSolo@legaltalknetwork.com  

Topics:

• Hear how a successful solo law firm founder learned to practice law, enjoy her life, and take care of the day-to-day chores it takes to run a business
  
• It’s easy to fall into the habit of trying to do everything yourself. Learn when to “outsource,” turning over business issues such as bookkeeping and administration to contract employees and firms.
• When it comes to your tech, don’t skimp. If you need it, get it. “Good enough” is rarely good enough. 

Hear the original episode with Heidi K. Brown.

Clients are used to the traditional billable hour, but in reality, they aren’t paying for your time, they are paying for results. They are paying you for what you achieve. So why not bill that way? 

This doesn’t have to be all or nothing. Some jobs can be better handled with a straight up, flat fee or a subscription model. Others may still require hourly billing. Or maybe one part of the case is a set amount, with hourly add-ons if the case drags on. 

The goal is never to see your practice earn less revenue, but flat-fee billing can benefit both client and lawyer. Think of how many times clients were afraid to call you or chat a bit to build a relationship because they worried the clock was ticking. Hear how you can try it out, “play with” a rate shift. Maybe even present clients with an option. If you’ve been curious about how flat-fee billing can work, this is the episode for you. 

Questions or ideas about solo and small practices? Drop us a line at NewSolo@legaltalknetwork.com 

 Topics:

• Flat-fee billing? It can be done, and it can offer advantages to both clients and law firms. Clients are paying for results, not “hours.
  
• How you price your services doesn’t have to be one way or the other. It can be both. Some tasks can be set for a straight up, transparent flat fee. Others may work best at an hourly rat
  
• Explaining fees to clients is a new concept. But clients often warm up to new ways of doing things if they’re given the chance and understand their options. It starts with honest, clear conversations. (Don’t forget to help your own staff understand, too.) 

Links from the episode:  

https://legaltalknetwork.com/podcasts/new-solo/ 

https://mycase.com/lawyerist 

They also explore why specialization can help streamline your firm and even lower malpractice insurance premiums. Plus, they tackle imposter syndrome, the importance of mentorship, and how technology can lift the burden of running a law firm. 

Hear the original episode with Marco Brown.

Learn more about ALPS Insurance. 

Receive email notifications every time we release a new episode.

Buckle up as we cover essential topics like choosing the right tech, working with a practice management advisor, and finding networking opportunities. Our first episode lands on February 13th. Subscribe now so you don’t miss a moment of the ride!

New Solo: First Flight Episode 1:

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Subscribe on Apple Podcasts

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Learn More About ALPS Insurance

Guest Tara-Jane Flynn has been called a “Princess Warrior” and “The Deposition Queen” for her tough, compelling courtroom manner. But the veteran California personal injury litigator says she started out as a shy girl too overwhelmed to give a classroom speech in school.

She taught herself to be strong and to be the strength her clients need. She got involved in theater and public speaking. She guest hosted podcasts. And she developed a strong social media presence. You can, too. 

In this episode, you’ll hear valuable tips for winning depositions, learning how to leverage social media, and being the lawyer your client needs to believe in from a Los Angeles attorney at home battling for 8-figure verdicts. Get ready to be inspired. 

Questions or ideas about solo and small practices? Drop us a line at NewSolo@legaltalknetwork.com  

Topics:

• Overcoming shyness to become a force of nature in the courtroom doesn’t always come naturally. Learn what you can do intentionally to build your presence and your confidence.
    
• Social media? It’s not as hard as you think. Find an attorney with a social media presence you admire and do what they do. How’s that for easy? Really.
    
• Extracting valuable evidence in a deposition can feel intimidating, but there are things you can do. Hear how to let the deponent talk, ask follow-up questions as simple as why or why not, and prepare, prepare, prepare.

Let’s fix that. Guest Barron K. Henley is a self-proclaimed “nerdy lawyer” who helped found the Affinity Consulting Group, a team of “recovering lawyers” dedicated to helping attorneys maximize productivity through technology.

Hear how Henley and his team teach lawyers about Microsoft “styles,” voice to text solutions, formatting, and importing and synchronizing Excel data and tables. 

Save time, minimize errors, and stop feeling frustrated. You won’t come across these solutions by accident, but you can invest a little time in learning. It’ll pay you back in the long run. 

Questions or ideas about solo and small practices? Drop us a line at NewSolo@legaltalknetwork.com  

Topics:

• The solutions to better document creation and management are probably right there in front of you
  
• An investment in training yourself, and your staff, in the ordinary everyday tech you use, such as the Microsoft 365 suite, pays you back exponentially
  
• Voice to text tech is vastly underrated for some tasks. People can speak at 180 words a minute, converting that into text automatically saves you a block of time that can be better used on real, creative efforts. 

Parks and his partner grew the firm and expanded into new locations and specialties by inviting like minded attorneys with a book of business who may not be happy in their current situation to join the firm. 

Learn how a practice management system and outside professionals can help you manage and direct your success. Your time is best used practicing law, don’t be afraid to reach out to professionals for help, from tech administration to financial management, to coaching.

Don’t be afraid to join professional groups, get involved, and learn from other attorneys who have been there and done that. If you’re a new solo interested in growing your firm, you can’t miss this episode. 

Questions or ideas about solo and small practices? Drop us a line at NewSolo@legaltalknetwork.com  

Topics:

• • Technology can be a critical part of your firm. It creates efficiencies, encourages collaboration, improves cybersecurity, and builds your business (and yes, you can do this)
    
  • Pay for professional help when you need it. You might be a great attorney, but you can’t do everything. Recognize when you’re doing so well that you need a professional, whether that’s a technology consultant or a financial officer or tax pro.
  • When you’ve done all you can getting your firm up and running and don’t know how to take the next step, consider hiring a business coach, someone who can help you recognize opportunities and chart your path forward. 

Links from the episode:  

Check out CosmoLex  

Let’s talk about your firm’s finances and profitability: how are you keeping track of your business? Hear what’s new in automated accounting packages – but don’t give up on Quickbooks, and don’t cut ties with your bookkeeper.

Online accounting services are great. But they are not meant to replace a professional, especially as your firm grows. You’re not a bookkeeper, you’re a lawyer. But these tools do help with the basics of money management. The challenge is mixing and matching. 

Operational efficiencies and financial planning are part of running a successful firm. Don’t shortchange the importance of bookkeeping and managing your income, marketing ROI, expenses, and taxes. It’s vital you keep your finger on the pulse of your business, and there are tools and people who can help you. As Gruenke says, “Treat your business with respect.” 

Questions or ideas about solo and small practices? Drop us a line at NewSolo@legaltalknetwork.com  

Topics:

• If you’re a small or solo firm, you’re a business. Every business must track their finances, their expenses, and their taxes. Hear about the latest tools that help you track every part of your firm’s financial life.
  
• Repeat after us: Lawyers are not bookkeepers. This is why you need not only software but someone who tracks your business performance, watches your bottom line, and keeps you ready for tax time.
  
• Security, checks and balances, and financial snapshots are all vital. It’s a lot to keep up with, but investing the time and money to assemble the tools you need will help you grow (and profit).

Discover how Allyson found her niche in personal injury law by focusing on cyclists, a unique approach that set her apart and helped grow her client base and hear about her remarkable victory in a landmark wrongful death case. 

You’ll also get practical insights on leveraging digital platforms and remote work to enhance your firm’s marketing strategy, even on a shoestring budget. 

Links from the episode: 

Collbox: Lawyerist’s go-to Solution for Getting Law Firms Paid  

How is your law firm showing up in local search? Gyi and Conrad give an extensive explanation of Local Falcon, their go-to data visualization tool for seeing how your firm shows up in the local map pack (those three neatly featured business profiles you see at the top of your search results). You’ll learn how to figure out who your main competitors are, how to use Local Falcon metrics to make ranking improvements over time, and insights into the many effects of proximity and your area’s geography on ranking factors.

Later, the guys dig in even deeper to explain how Local Falcon can be used to help you figure out whether you ought to open another office, or, perhaps, close one down. They hash out how to assess your metrics to determine the success (or lack thereof) of your investments. 

The News:

• A very long, drawn-out Google Algo Update is finally done, and it was big—according to people who care about that stuff.
• Yelp has never been fond of Google, and the recent ruling against the Googs gave them the ammo they needed for a lawsuit – Yelp sues Google for antitrust violations – The Verge.
• And, the compulsory AI mention: Semrush Launches AI Overview Tracking in Organic Research.

Mentioned in this Episode:

Local Falcon

Does My Website Suck? | Law Firm Website Teardown – LHLM Episode

The Bite – Lunch Hour Legal Marketing Newsletter!

Leave Us an Apple Review 

Lunch Hour Legal Marketing on YouTube 

Lunch Hour Legal Marketing on TikTok

Leticia first talks about the importance of setting boundaries and the misconception that self-care is selfish. Listen and learn why self-care should be a fundamental part of your law firm business plan.  

Grow your firm by understanding the balance between personal well-being and professional success.  

Become a part of the Lawyerist community to access insights and resources that will help you organize your practice and become more agile and productive.  

Take the Small Firm Scorecard to evaluate your current practices. 

Links from the episode:  

Subscribe to the Lawyerist Youtube Channel  

Now Clio has baked that accounting service directly into its practice management software package. 

Frankly, attorneys – especially new solo practitioners – may have been taught very little about running a business. Being a good lawyer is only part of the game. Lawyers also need to know how to manage money and accounting. That’s where software and money management programs can help, including tax prep, accounting for ongoing work in anticipation of payment, capital distributions, and handling funds your clients have entrusted you with.  

Hear why legal-specific accounting is so important (hint, legal accounting is not like any other accounting, and mistakes can truly hurt your practice). Plus, the top five features that must be part of any legal accounting platform. 

Topics:

• Law schools and legal training may overlook the importance of accounting for a new law firm. It’s not intuitive. Hear how legal practice management firm Clio is incorporating legal-specific accounting functions into its platform
  
• Practicing law is what you signed up for, but managing money is what will keep your firm running. Never forget, your firm is a business that depends on accounting.
• Tax management, income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow management are not only crucial, but very weirdly specific in the world of legal accounting.
  

• Adding a Customer Relationship Management (CRM) program for your law firm? Hear the struggles one small firm is facing as it looks to automate CRM duties. Start with knowing what you need, how you’ll keep up with clients and follow up on leads. Software is just a tool. Without a plan, it’s useless. Start with a “sequence of contact” (and no BS). 
• “Misfiring” when you hire a new associate can be a headache (and expensive). How do you make sure it’s a good fit before you hire, instead of learning you made a mistake later? Treat recruiting as marketing. Start with a clear message. Know what you want and tell people. 
• Are you offering discounts? Here’s the thing: people don’t always want discounts; they want value. A good deal isn’t about money, it’s about service. Give clients more, don’t charge less. Make them feel special. (Do you know what a lagniappe is?)

The world of legal tech offers myriad solutions. True they cost money, but that should never hold a firm back if there’s ROI on the other side. Modernizing a firm’s tech can advance a firm, create efficiencies, and push the firm ahead. But fear of the unknown, and not understanding an investment’s potential, even if that’s coming from a single person, can hold everyone else back. 

Hear how “absolute clarity” and a laser focus on what your firm needs can clear those roadblocks by helping you explain exactly what solutions you need and how new tech will meet them. Fear and uncertainty are the enemy. Start with defining a problem, then educate everyone on how a solution will solve it and how you will support the adoption process.

Questions or ideas about solo and small practices? Drop us a line at NewSolo@legaltalknetwork.com  

Topics:

• Today’s legal tech is getting better, and faster, and more efficient. But sometimes a “this is how we’ve always done it” from a single person – anyone from a managing partner to a bookkeeper – can block upgrades.
   
• Don’t let one person hold back an entire firm. Hear how it all starts with identifying a problem and helping your “human roadblocks” overcome their concerns and get onboard.  

Fear of the unknown is real. Fear of looking “dumb” in the face of a tech upgrade is real. Fear of overspending is real. Empathize. Educate. Elevate. Help those resisters feel empowered and excited. 

Start with knowing that when you hang out a shingle, you run a business. You just happen to be a lawyer. Lots of lawyers have gone through what you’ve gone through. How do you turn your passion for the law into a profitable business? 

Hear how you can focus on the fundamentals of running a real business. Law firms are simple, at their core. Don’t overthink it. Lawyers have been running businesses for a thousand years. Learn the core nuggets that will drive your business. No fads, just the honest realities of business. No excuses. 

Learn how your firm can serve you, instead of you sacrificing for your firm. Get fired up, take charge, and get ahead.

In today’s episode, Stephanie talks with author Leidy Klotz about his book, Subtract, and why taking away should be part of our decision-making toolkit.  

Links from the episode:  

Check out CosmoLex!  

Subtract by Leidy Klotz  

If today’s podcast resonates with you and you haven’t read The Small Firm Roadmap Revisited yet, get the first chapter right now for free! 

AI is an emerging technology that is finding its way to more and more law offices. McCausland and Thompson served on a Florida Bar committee to draft an advisory opinion laying out ethical guidelines for the use of AI in legal practice.

With ethical guardrails published, what’s next? A best practices guide and clear definitions and examples of AI for legal services. Client consent, the impact on fees and confidentiality, and even how judges view the use of AI and informing the court that AI played a role in your presentation are all pieces of the puzzle.

It’s a brave new world. Where can attorneys new to AI find mentoring, what will clients and courts expect, and what about billing?

Plus, hear about the Florida Bar’s Solo & Small Firms Section and how other solo and small firms are incorporating legal technologies. It’s natural to feel overwhelmed, but if you take in all these new tools step-by-step, you’ll quickly find yourself up to speed and exploring new frontiers.

Questions or ideas about solo and small practices? Drop us a line at NewSolo@legaltalknetwork.com   

Topics:

• Hear from two lawyers who helped the Florida Bar Association develop ethical guidelines for attorneys adopting AI technologies into their practice.
• New tools are emerging at a rapid clip. But if you take it step-by-step, you can avoid feeling overwhelmed.
• Every small and solo firm is different. There’s no single “right way” to incorporate legal tech into your practice, but the days of a legal pad and pen are in the past. Stay current or fall behind. Help is out there, and you can do this. 

As a lawyer, guest Dan Lear found himself gravitating to the field of legal tech, including stints at Microsoft and Avvo and now as vice president of partnerships at InfoTrack, helping software developers provide the tech today’s lawyers, and their clients, want. 

If you’re running your own firm, hear what clients say about their attorney’s tech skills and their expectations and how you can explore and implement the latest tools. 

And if you’re a law school graduate who has found you aren’t truly attracted to traditional legal work, hear about the fascinating opportunities for lawyers in the field of legal tech development and consulting.

Questions or ideas about solo and small practices? Drop us a line at NewSolo@legaltalknetwork.com  

Topics:

• A new survey finds clients care (deeply) about their attorney’s tech and tech skills. And they expect those attorneys to use that tech to efficiently manage their cases
  
• Legal tech tools are advancing rapidly. Today’s tools can integrate every facet of a law practice, from case management and scheduling to digitally filing briefs, seamlessly.
  
• There are opportunities for law school graduates who don’t want to practice traditional law, instead helping tech firms develop new tools and helping law firms understand and implement those tools. 

Martin is the founder, managing director, lawyer, and accredited mediator at Align Family Law, a boutique law practice based in Victoria and Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. Hear how she joined professional organizations, expanded her marketing, and drove her practice to the next step. 

As you grow, you can build a network of like-minded professionals, ask clients for a Google review, manage and improve your branding and website, and hire a pro when you need technical help (and even personal coaching). You’ll learn as you go, but you can also learn from others.

Once you get your feet under you, it can be tempting to be overly cautious with your emerging practice, but growth is essential. Spend the money when you need to, hire when the practice demands. Get better and bigger. 

Questions or ideas about solo and small practices? Drop us a line at NewSolo@legaltalknetwork.com  

Topics:

• • Launching a solo firm is hard. But so is taking that firm to the next level. Hear tips for growing beyond a one person show
    
  • Adding associates and support staff may sound challenging, but making the right additions builds your business and takes routine tasks off your shoulders.
  • It’s OK to spend on the tools and professionals you need, such as legal and practice management software and professional help optimizing your tech, even professional coaching. 

AI enhancements and tools are already incorporated into the latest versions of your current office software. Remember when some were wary of early word processors, later hard drives, and eventually cloud services and document sharing? We learned to overcome those fears and master the advances. AI is no different.

Look at your paid versions of Adobe Acrobat. If you have an online subscription, or the latest desktop version, you may already have an AI assistant. Learn to use it for contract and document review, document summaries, information consolidation for quick email distribution, and even reformatting. 

Zoom offers AI “note taking” and post-meeting summaries (even a takeaway “to do” list for each participant). So does Microsoft Teams. How about turning a Microsoft Word document into a PowerPoint? Hear how we learned to stop worrying and love the AI.

Questions or ideas about solo and small practices? Drop us a line at NewSolo@legaltalknetwork.com  

Topics:

• AI isn’t going anywhere. The technology is weaving its way into products you already pay for and use. Learn how to take advantage.
• Computer software advances are nothing to be afraid of. Increase productivity, cut repetitive tasks, and free yourself.
  
• But AI isn’t magic, and it isn’t as smart as you. Learn to build guardrails and know where you can’t fully trust it. A hammer is a great tool, but it won’t build a house. AI won’t run your practice, but it can help.

Resources:
Adobe Acrobat AI

Microsoft Copilot, “Announcing Microsoft Copilot, Your Everyday AI Companion”

Copilot for Microsoft Edge

Microsoft Copilot

Microsoft 365

Microsoft 365 AI Tools And Applications

Microsoft OneDrive

Zoom AI

PC Guide, “What Is ChatGPT And What Is It Used For?”  

Previously on New Solo, Adam Alexander, “AI And The Evolving Security Threats (And Protections)”

A lot has changed in the way Microsoft tools interact with the world of legal tech in the past year or so. So, we’ve got a special episode on tech. A back-to-school session where host Adriana Linares offers some no nonsense tutoring to help you get the most out of your Microsoft subscriptions and tech and be more productive. 

Start with understanding your Microsoft account and the types of available add-ons and subscriptions. Take a deep dive into the types of Microsoft accounts: personal/family, work, and third-party accounts. Dig into available AI and how they apply to your business. And learn about security options, and why they are so important.

Got questions or ideas about solo and small practices? Drop us a line at NewSolo@legaltalknetwork.com  

Topics:

• Understand the array of Microsoft accounts and services. Business or personal? Security? Plus, add-ons and subscriptions.
• Learn why you should never mingle your personal and private accounts.
  
• Get the latest on AI add-ons such as Microsoft Copilot (and understand the security around these new tools). 

ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot, and all the new, exciting versions of artificial intelligence, AI, are exciting. But have you read the “terms of service?” Guest Daniel Whitehouse is a lawyer who practices in the areas of IT and digital security. He says even lawyers forget to read (really read) the terms. And that’s a mistake.

Do you know who owns the data you input? Is it being absorbed into the AI’s own machine learning and shared with the public? Broadcasting your information into the world, for everyone to see, can be as easy as a checkbox you clicked on.

Not to make you paranoid, but … be a bit paranoid. Even if you’re using Microsoft 365 and OneDrive, do you know if you’re using the professional or personal version (hint: there is a difference).

Got questions or ideas about solo and small practices? Drop us a line at NewSolo@legaltalknetwork.com 

Topics:

• AI is a miracle but remember, it’s a “continuous learning model.” What is it learning from you? What are you sharing with these products?
• If you can’t find something you’re looking for in the terms of service, ask why that information is so hard to find. Be suspicious. Terms and service provisions should be clear and easy to read.
• Understanding how AI uses information, and how accurate it is, is especially vital in the legal world. 

But don’t lose hope. It’s been a while since we’ve had IT expert Adam Alexander with us, but he’s back with more tips for solo practitioners and small practices. Alexander and his firm, InterNetwork IT, help attorneys identify, deploy, and manage security solutions and keep firms running efficiently. 

AI is shaking up everything. We’ll talk about Microsoft AI “Copilots” and how Microsoft is integrating AI into your entire PC experience. You’ll be surprised at how this combination works for both Windows and Macs.

Learn how to check security settings. Breaches are real and can be costly. Hear why it’s so important (and easy) to back up your files offsite

We’ve seen some tremendous tools in both productivity and security. If you aren’t keeping up, you might be missing out on some time saving hacks (even a way to convert handwriting to text built into your Snipping tool). Get the scoop on this episode of New Solo. . 

Got questions or ideas about solo and small practices? Drop us a line at NewSolo@legaltalknetwork.com  

Topics:

• AI is changing a lot, including the simplest tasks. In our latest tech talk, dive into AI products that plug right into your web browsers.
• Why file security is so important (and protecting your files is easier than you think … if you pay attention).
• Some daily activities require specific security efforts, including Payment Card Industry (PCI) security and even, if you work with medical information, HIPAA security. But you can do it.  

Now he’s known as “The Bike Guy” and stands out in the crowded personal injury field by specializing in an area he’s passionate about. He’s an example of specializing in something you love, and he’s sharing his story with new lawyers just starting out.

Bonnici walks us through, step by step, how he took advantage of an available incubator system, learned on the job from a mentor, and built his practice and his reputation. Hear how he got started, networked, built a brand, made himself memorable, and hired an assistant to make himself more productive. Real lessons from real life. 

Got questions or ideas about solo and small practices? Drop us a line at NewSolo@legaltalknetwork.com  

Topics:

• • “Follow your passion” is common advice. But in the case of guest Josua Bonnici, his passion for bicycling helped him stand out in the crowded personal injury field. 
  • Hiring your first employee. Why it’s scary and why it’s necessary.
  • How to develop a website and social media presence with a library of videos and testimonials. 

Resources:

California Lawyers Association

Thomas Jefferson School of Law

San Diego Bar Association

Joshua Bonnici previous appearance on Legal Talk Network’s “On The Road” podcast

Guest Michael Mendoza is an Orlando solo practitioner specializing in family law. After graduating from law school with a growing family, Mendoza knew he wanted work/life balance instead of burying himself in a big firm with long hours. For Mendoza, the practice of family law is personal, having witnessed his parents’ contentious divorce. 

Hear how Mendoza started with nothing, rolled up his sleeves, and launched a practice from putting together his tech to building his client base. How did he find clients? Did he advertise? What about a website? Or office space? 

It’s been tough. But the combination of running his own practice and the satisfaction of helping families through a difficult period has proven rewarding. Mendoza’s story is a guide for young lawyers who want to hang out a shingle (he even has an employee now). 

Nothing is easy. Nothing is perfect. It’s scary. But you can do this.

Got questions or ideas about solo and small practices? Drop us a line at NewSolo@legaltalknetwork.com  

Topics:

• • Starting your own law firm is anything but easy. But it can be done. Hear first-hand from one attorney who did just that, from the ground up. 
  • Software? Office space? Clients? Employees? Financials? There are a lot of balls in the air once you start juggling. 
  • What are the best and worst decisions you can make starting out? (Hint: find a mentor).

Resources:

Florida Bar Association

Florida Bar Association, Legal Fuel assistance

Seminole County (Florida) Bar Association

San Diego County Bar

Nebraska State Bar Association

Clio legal software

Microsoft 365

Adobe PDF management

Text Expander

Mycase legal software

LawPay legal software

George C. Young American Inns of Court

We’re witnessing a revolution in the use of generative AI, often producing results so good that it’s hard to determine what was written by a human and what was generated by the program. This is becoming the bedrock of legal research, saving attorneys time and money, allowing them work on strategy and building cases instead of hunting for case law.

But regular, layman’s, AI is still experiencing some hiccups, “hallucinating” incorrect information as it struggles to learn. Breaking news only on New Solo: Coming soon to vLex and Fastcase, an AI Lab is developing a new class of AI built just for law, globally, called (for now) “Research Assistant.” This new level of AI will be so up to date it will include cases decided in as little as 12 hours prior to each request, fully vetted and referenced. 

Got questions or ideas about solo and small practices? Drop us a line at NewSolo@legaltalknetwork.com 

Topics:

• Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a great tool, but it’s also prone to errors. One popular tool, ChatGPT, is fun, but it’s not for legal research. Can lawyers trust an AI program to create bullet-proof results?
• Breaking news on New Solo: Coming soon, vLex and Fastcase legal research together have built an AI Lab developing a new class of AI honed just for law, globally, tentatively called “Research Assistant.” AI results you can trust.
• AI is not going away. If you’re not keeping up, you’re falling behind. Get involved and stay current. The world of computer assisted legal research is blowing up.

Courthouses are busy places. Judges and clerks deal with a lot of distractions and competing demands. Make your briefs stand out boy making them easier to read and follow. Any jargon, excessive footnotes, parentheticals, and asides just add to the chaos and detract from your argument. Good writing, formatting, and attention to detail matter. 

Schandevel has created an easy-to-use, three-page style guide for legal writing and clear formatting. You don’t need to use fancy words to sell your case. Clear, simple language and a clean story help the court understand your argument and see your point.

Take a deep dive into the art and artistry of writing and presenting a legal brief at the highest levels, and get some tips you can start using today. (Plus, do you know the official preferred font of the U.S. Supreme Court?) 

Got questions or ideas about solo and small practices? Drop us a line at NewSolo@legaltalknetwork.com  

Topics:

• Judges aren’t impressed with fancy words and jargon. A clear, easy-to-read legal brief is easier to follow to the conclusion you want your reader to reach. 
• Learn to remove barriers to the reader such as excessive footnotes, lengthy sentences and changes in “voice.” And do use the Oxford comma!

What is the “cleaned up parenthetical?” (And how is it being adopted at the highest levels of the law?) Find out. 

In the past, there were challenges shifting between Mac and Microsoft, but today’s practice management programs can work on both systems. You like Macs? Then go for it, there is less and less to hold you back.

Why Mac over PC? Cost, battery life, integrations between iPhones, the Apple watch, and iPads, as well as security are considerations. Only 15% to 20% of lawyers use Macs, so you do need to think things through and ensure you can share information with your Microsoft colleagues and opposing counsel. There are advantages and disadvantages. Make sure you understand every aspect.

There are some basics to getting started. Maybe most important is to not “cheap out” when you’re getting your computer system set up. Our guests explain what you need, including processor speed and memory. It all matters. Law is your business, your computer is your tool. If you’re investing anywhere, it’s here. RAM? ROM? Gigs? Ports? What do you need?

Got questions or ideas about solo and small practices? Drop us a line at NewSolo@legaltalknetwork.com  

Topics:

• Lawyers use Macs. Yes, it happens, and it can go well.
•  Know what kind of needs you have and learn how to use your Mac to your advantage. Speed, cross-platform exchanges, and even weight matter.
• Programs abound for Mac lawyers. It’s not like the olden days when Microsoft programs only worked on Microsoft platforms. Adobe, Word, Excel all can work smoothly on a Mac.

He wrote his own business plan, shadowed established attorneys, sought educational and business development support, found shared office space with other lawyers, and developed a holistic approach that lets him to build relationships with his clients and work not only as an attorney but also as a trusted advisor.

Learn how he set up his practice, selected case management software, established a flat-fee subscription plan for his clients rather than hourly rates, and developed an understanding of the needs of both elder clients and their families as they navigate a new stage of life.

If you’re well into a first career, you might be surprised at how much your “real world experience” can translate to a solo law practice.

Got questions or ideas about solo and small practices? Drop us a line at NewSolo@legaltalknetwork.com  

Topics:

• Starting a solo practice as a second career and putting your “old job” skills to work in your new venture.
• The importance of selecting the right practice management and office equipment tools, learning about marketing, and asking for help when you don’t know.
• The value of finding a niche that lets you focus your energy on the kind of law that matches your passion.