Practice Management Podcasts - Legal Talk Network

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Networking and Referrals, the Forgotten Marketing Channel

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 24 Feb 2026 12:00:15 +0000

A part of the legal marketing landscape we don’t talk about enough is referral marketing. Sure, we focus on digital marketing, search engines, and paid advertising. But maybe one of the best – and cheapest – forms of marketing could be referral marketing, working with other layers who know, like, and trust us.

Guest John Reed is a former practicing attorney and the founder of Rain BDM, a marketing firm that helps lawyers build exceptional relationships. Hear how professionals learn and play “the referral game.”

Asking for referrals may not feel natural, even a bit awkward. But like any marketing campaign, it can be planned, initiated, and tracked. And it can be fun and rewarding. Don’t try to make a relationship “transactional,” just go out and meet and help people. Let it be more relaxed and natural.

Hear about the “four questions” and a personalized “grid” plan that can get the ball rolling when you meet another attorney. If you’ve struggled with building intentional relationships with other attorneys and expanding your network, you’ll want to hear this free “relationships 101” lesson from a proven, experienced pro.

Religious Employers and Employment Law: Whose Rights?

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 17 Feb 2026 16:30:17 +0000

Religious organizations and their employees fall into a murky and often-overlooked area of labor and employment law. Guests James “Jim” Paul and Michael Subit practice in employment and labor law and are versed in the world of religious employers and their workers.

Title VII of the Civil Rights Act carves out some interesting exemptions in employment law regarding religion-based businesses, but some recent court rulings seem to conflict with each other. Paul and Subit join host Matt Greer to delve into what constitutes a “religious employer” and where religious beliefs and practices challenge existing employment laws.

A recent appeals court ruling spells out nine questions regarding religion-based retailers, religious hospitals, and other businesses. Is it created for profit? Does it make a secular product? Do articles of incorporation state a religious purpose? All of these considerations may matter.

This issue goes way beyond practicing a religion. Consider same sex marriage, certain behaviors, and reproductive rights. Hear how quickly employer and employee rights can conflict. Is a Supreme Court showdown on the horizon?

Turn Expertise into Clients: Building Authority That AI Recognizes, with Karin Conroy from Conroy Creative

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 17 Feb 2026 12:00:06 +0000

In episode 603 of Lawyerist Podcast, Zack Glaser sits down with Karin Conroy to examine how AI is changing the rules of law firm marketing and what that means for lawyers who want to stand out for the right reasons.

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!

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

Ethics, Judgment, and Trust in a World of Legal AI, with Damien Riehl

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 12 Feb 2026 12:00:17 +0000

Lawyers have always relied on tools—but AI is different. It doesn’t just assist with tasks; it makes decisions, applies judgment, and shapes outcomes. In episode #602 of the Lawyerist Podcast, Stephanie Everett talks with Damien Riehl about what ethical responsibility looks like when AI starts doing legal work on its own.

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!

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

EP 1002- Lifting While You Climb: Part One with Imani Maatuka

Ally Kvidt — Wed, 11 Feb 2026 12:00:23 +0000

What’s it like to go from a big law firm to opening a boutique law firm in partnership with your mother in the first five years of your career? Listen in as Imani Maatuka shares the experience and lessons learned along the way with Liz Lenivy and Elizabeth McNulty.

Community Table: Explaining the Process to a New Client The Correct Way

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 10 Feb 2026 15:30:53 +0000

In this episode’s discussions around the Community Table, explaining to clients what to expect, marketing, and getting your tech up to speed.

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.)

Beyond Chatbots: Using Agentic AI in Law Firm Intake, with Matt Spiegel from Lawmatics

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 10 Feb 2026 12:00:00 +0000

Lawyers are understandably cautious about AI—but the real risk may be using it the wrong way. In episode 601 of the Lawyerist Podcast, Zack Glaser sits down with Matt Spiegel of Lawmatics to explore how agentic AI is changing the way law firms handle intake and evaluate potential clients.

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!

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

Designing a Law Firm You Actually Want to Run, with Stephanie Everett

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 05 Feb 2026 12:00:59 +0000

Starting a law firm doesn’t automatically make you a business owner—designing one does. In episode #600 of the Lawyerist Podcast, Stephanie Everett and Zack Glaser kick off a four-part series on how to design a law firm intentionally, rather than defaulting into a business you didn’t mean to build.

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!

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

Six To-Dos Every Firm Can Embrace in 2026

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 03 Feb 2026 16:00:29 +0000

Where do you want your firm to go in the new year? Do you have a plan to get there? Intentional firm design and strategy trumps reactive growth every time. Don’t let your firm run you; take charge today!

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).

Why Mentorship Matters More Than Ever for New Lawyers, with Joseline Hardrick

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 29 Jan 2026 12:00:04 +0000

Law school prepares students to think like lawyers, but it often leaves them without a clear picture of what comes next. Zack Glaser sits down with Jocelyn Hardrick to explore how mentorship, pipeline programs, and practical guidance can help first-generation and nontraditional students bridge the gap between legal education and real-world practice.

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!

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

Local Love, Review Realities, and the Truth about Google’s PMax Campaigns

Ally Kvidt — Wed, 28 Jan 2026 16:30:57 +0000

As you advertise locally, advertise your localness! Then, what’s a small firm to do in the sea of reviews? And, we really hate Google’s Performance Max nonsense.

Lots to cover today, folks! Being connected to your community matters, and consumers respond with notable positivity to ads that emphasize all the local feels. Gyi and Conrad have plenty of insights on making the most of where you’re planted.

Next, fake reviews keep pouring in, and you need a clear strategy to rise above the flood. The guys share tactical tips for directing your resources to become a strong competitor in your marketplace.

And, lastly, Google’s PMax campaigns are a mighty unfunny joke. Ugh. The data is in, and—surprise, surprise—Google might not have your best interest at heart. Gyi and Conrad pick apart the latest data to help you understand what these campaigns are (not) doing for your law firm.

The News:

OpenAI put this out there: Our approach to advertising and expanding access to ChatGPT. And, just to remind you all, at one point they told us ads were definitely not in the game plan. But… qué será, será, eh?
Near Media’s “Near Memo” podcast welcomed our very own Gyi for a chat you should definitely go listen to: AI Is Breaking Local Search—But Google Still Decides Who Gets Chosen

Mentioned:

Listen Next:

Conrad’s Crystal Ball V: Lawyer Marketing Predictions for 2026

Connect:

“Most U.S. Employers Say Mental Health Issues Contribute to Worker Absences,” by Joe Toppe

What Can Today’s Tech and AI Do for You? Expert Insights (and Predictions)

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 27 Jan 2026 12:00:11 +0000

The world of legal technology can seem overwhelming. Fortunately, we have a guide in Chelsey Lambert, founder and author at the legal tech education, consulting, and guidance platform Legal Tech Decoded, which features articles, reviews, and opinions on the latest in legal tech.

This episode is kind of about marketing, but kind of about operations, but also kind of about AI, because tech is coming for every aspect of your legal practice. What developments will drive your firm forward, and what’s smoke and mirrors?

Lawyers who’ve been in the business long enough have gone from reviewing cases on paper and in books, maybe even yellow legal pads, to the Internet revolution, to online research and filing, to today’s AI revolution. Is AI remaking the practice of law, or just the next progression? (Spoiler, it’s kind of a big deal.)

“I don’t know that we’ve ever trained lawyers how to buy technology in the first place,” Lambert says. Now add the complexity of AI, a tool you have to train, guide, and trust. Hear about the evolving world of legal tech, even developments you probably haven’t heard of, and the evolution of the profession, including the potential for non-lawyer ownership and private equity. Don’t fear or ignore the revolution, embrace it.

Workplace Mental Health: Employee/Employer Perspectives Can Differ.

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 27 Jan 2026 12:00:00 +0000

Mental health plays a big role in workplace efficiency and safety, but it seems employers and employees view the topic differently. Guest Joseph Toppe, a longtime journalist and managing editor of the insurance news website PropertyCasualty360.com shares an interesting study from Pie Insurance.

In recent years, employee mental health has become a more prominent issue. You don’t see the physical injury, but the injury may be there just the same. Where do employers see the risks of mental health, and how does that compare to workers’ needs? Employers and employees don’t agree.

There’s a disconnect over workplace mental health that needs to be addressed. There needs to be a discussion. You can’t see a mental health injury the way you see a physical injury, but those injuries are real. And the evolution of AI and automation is only adding to the employee stress.

In small businesses, especially, claims for mental health injuries are on the rise. Do you understand this new frontier? Workers’ Comp doesn’t end with “slips, trips, and falls.”

If you have thoughts on Workers’ Comp law or an idea for a topic or guest you’d like to hear, contact us at JPierce@ppnlaw.com or APierce@ppnlaw.com.

Resources:

Articles by Joe Toppe

“New Report From Pie Insurance: Small Businesses Safety Priorities Shifting as Employee Needs Evolve, Survey Show”

Pie Insurance

From Hype to Practice: Using Microsoft Copilot in Your Law Firm, with Ben Schorr

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 22 Jan 2026 12:00:52 +0000

In episode #598 of the Lawyerist Podcast, learn how Microsoft Copilot can help lawyers work more efficiently inside Microsoft 365—without compromising accuracy, security, or client trust. Zack Glaser talks with Ben Schorr, innovation strategist at Affinity Consulting Group and former Microsoft insider, about how attorneys can move past AI hype and start using Copilot for real, everyday legal work.

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!

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)

How Podcasting Can Change Your Business || LHLM Takeout

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 22 Jan 2026 09:00:04 +0000

How did our delightful little pod become what it is today? Gyi and Conrad chat with Ben & Brian Glass at The Great Legal Marketing Summit about their respective entrances into the legal marketing world and the story of the podcast’s growing-up years. They discuss what podcasts can & can’t do as a marketing tool for your business and how to create a conversation worth listening to.

Father-Son duo Ben and Brian Glass are prominent personal injury lawyers and business partners at BenGlassLaw in Fairfax, Virginia. They are known for their trial work, business acumen, and innovative marketing.

What Lawyers Get Wrong About Teaching Clients and Teams, with Danielle Hall

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 15 Jan 2026 12:00:48 +0000

Lawyers spend a surprising amount of time teaching clients, team members, and other lawyers, but most are never taught how adults actually learn. In episode 597 of the Lawyerist Podcast, Stephanie Everett talks with Danielle Hall about adult learning principles and why they matter in legal practice.

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:

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

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

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!

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

EP 1001- Celebrate Yourself

Ally Kvidt — Wed, 14 Jan 2026 12:00:00 +0000

Take a moment to reflect on 2025 and recognize your personal and professional accomplishments. And rather than setting lofty resolutions for the new year, we find it’s more helpful to focus on a single word to guide you through the year…..hear our picks for 2026.

Community Table: Getting Teams on Track and On the Same Page

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 13 Jan 2026 12:00:10 +0000

In this episode’s discussions around the Community Table, getting a worrisome associate, and the entire team, on track. Plus, communicating with clients and assuring them you have their back:

A manager struggles to help an associate manage tasks and produce work on time, could tools help through redundancies and accountability.
Daily “standups” or “scrums” can help legal teams clear logjams and stay on track. Christopher offers a concise explanation of how time management and accountability systems drive productivity.
Assuring clients you have their best interests at heart is vital, especially when they think you’re “part of the system.” What are “The Four Agreements” and how can they help you understand clients and communicate? Ask, listen, and explain.

Creating a Referral Network That Actually Works with Lee Rosen | First Flight #12

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 08 Jan 2026 12:00:50 +0000

When family lawyer and podcaster Lee Rosen talks about referrals, he doesn’t call them a network. He calls them friends. He explains why you only need about 20 trusted relationships to sustain a thriving practice, how genuine curiosity and consistency outperform traditional “networking,” and why lawyers make some of the most powerful referral partners across practice areas. Lee also shares how thoughtful gestures, not referral fees, build long-term goodwill and how social media can strengthen real-world connections when used with intention. Then, ALPS Insurance’s Rio Laine joins host Adriana Linares to cover the risk-management side of referrals, including documentation best practices, appropriate thank-you gifts, when to decline referrals, and why every solo should have a backup attorney and succession plan in place.

Hear the original episode with Lee Rosen

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The Athlete’s Mindset for Lawyers, with Jess Sargus

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 08 Jan 2026 12:00:36 +0000

High performance in law requires more than technical skill—it requires the right mindset. In episode #596 of the Lawyerist Podcast, Zack Glaser talks with Jess Sargus about applying an athlete’s mindset to leadership, performance, and growth in legal practice.

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!

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

Building a Successful Paralegal Career, Step by Step. Yes You Can.

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 08 Jan 2026 12:00:21 +0000

Once you’ve landed your first job as a paralegal professional, what next? How do you build your career, advance into management, and leverage affiliations and activities within local and national associations as you pursue your goals?

Guest Angela King is a successful paralegal manager at the national law firm of Katten Muchin Rosenman LLP. Over more than two decades, she has advanced from a law firm volunteer to a file clerk to legal assistant, then paralegal professional, and now paralegal manager at a national law firm overseeing dozens of paralegal professionals.

At each step, being active with paralegal associations helped her advance her skills and network. It starts with learning, and it extends to helping and mentoring. King explores how a conscious push to improve and learn at every stage built her career and how you can create your own path to professional success.

Leading with Purpose: Nate Alder on Service and Stewardship

Ally Kvidt — Mon, 05 Jan 2026 12:00:09 +0000

Leadership doesn’t always come naturally; it is a skill developed through service, mentorship, and a deep commitment to others. In this episode, Amanda Arriaga and Patrick Palace welcome Nate Alder, a longtime leader in multiple associations, including the NCBP. Drawing on his many years of service, Nate shares insights that deepen our understanding of how to lead with humility and a genuine commitment to stewarding and elevating the next generation of leaders in the legal profession.

Nate Alder is a shareholder at Christensen & Jensen, where he litigates, tries, and resolves complex civil cases.

KPIs for Lawyers: Measuring Your Law Firm’s Financial Health, with Bernadette L. Harris (Remastered)

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 01 Jan 2026 12:00:52 +0000

In episode 595 of the Lawyerist Podcast, we’re revisiting Stephanie’s conversation with Lawyerist financial coach Bernadette L. Harris about the financial KPIs every law firm owner should understand as a new year begins. We’re bringing this episode back because it’s especially timely for firms setting their strategy, goals, and financial benchmarks for the year ahead. It’s important to continue finding a clear, practical approach to understanding the numbers that drive a healthy firm.

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!

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

Pardon the Interruption: 2025 Edition

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 26 Dec 2025 12:00:45 +0000

Another year gone! With 2025 rapidly bidding us adieu, Dennis, Tom, and their good pal Debbie Foster send us off with their annual Kennedy-Mighell edition of Pardon the Interruption. They argue different sides of popular tech topics in “Toss-Up”, play legal tech Mad Libs in “What’s the Word?”, and take the temp on 2025 trends in “Hot or Not?”. And, we know the question on everyone’s minds—Can Tom keep up his yearslong winning streak? Listen in to find out.

As always, stay tuned for the parting shots, that one tip, website, or observation that you can use the second the podcast ends.

Have a technology question for Dennis and Tom? Call their Tech Question Hotline at 720-441-6820 for the answers to your most burning tech questions.

Have JD, Will Work Remotely. Contract Attorneys Fill Gaps When Firms Have Short-Term Needs.

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 26 Dec 2025 12:00:43 +0000

Let the record show, records were meant to be corrected. In this episode, we revisit something we mentioned that might not have been the full story, the role of the remote attorney and the freelance attorneys provided by LAWCLERK.

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

Our Favorite Lawyerist Episodes of the Year, with Stephanie Everett & Zack Glaser

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 25 Dec 2025 12:00:07 +0000

As the year comes to a close, Stephanie Everett and Zack Glaser look back at the Lawyerist Podcast episodes that stood out most to them in episode 594 of the Lawyerist Podcast. From practical AI workflows and ethical guidance to mental health, communication, and leadership, this episode highlights the conversations that sparked new thinking and delivered real value.

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!

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

What Would the Brand Do? Marketing Without a Big-Firm Budget

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 23 Dec 2025 12:00:53 +0000

Every firm knows it should be marketing. But go deeper. How should you be thinking about your firm’s own individual goals, brand, and budget?

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.

Roasting Buckeyes || If You Screw Up the Honeymoon, You’re Headed for Divorce

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 23 Dec 2025 09:00:42 +0000

First—watch out, Ohio. The guys are sore losers, so they’re taking it out on one of your websites. Later, what should law firms be doing during the honeymoon phase with new clients?

Sour grapes, for sure: Following Michigan’s painful loss to Ohio State, Gyi and Conrad take revenge on Ohioans with a teardown of the Buckeye Law Group’s pathetic website. (Eesh—harsh, guys.) From ineffectual “Buckeye” branding to affinity-building misses to a phone number that leads to SOMEONE ELSE’S LAW FIRM, it’s not great. So, basically, Ohio drools, Michigan rules.

Later, Gyi and Conrad want you to have a long and happy marriage with your clients, so you’d better not bungle the honeymoon. During this new, formative time, there are certain things you should and shouldn’t do! The guys talk about building trust through great first impressions, exceptional communication, clear expectations—all the things that create a delightful customer experience for your new clients.

A Wee Bit o’ News:

Huh, Google is now allowing anonymous reviews. So, we’re wondering hard about whether this might encourage a mass influx of fake reviews… ya think? A few silver linings might exist, but let’s all just plan for the worst, shall we?

LHLM’s Top 5 Episodes of 2025!

Listen Next:

Does My Website Suck? | Law Firm Website Teardown

Connect:

Lunch Hour Legal Marketing Newsletter! – The Bite

Hear the original episode with Nate Cade

The Hidden Cost of Bad Clients, with Jeff Krause

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 18 Dec 2025 12:00:33 +0000

Not all clients are created equal—and some quietly drain your firm’s time, energy, and profits. In episode 593 of the Lawyerist Podcast, Stephanie Everett talks with Affinity Consulting’s Jeff Krause about the hidden cost of bad clients and how law firms can use data to make better decisions about who they serve.

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!

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

Understanding Neurodivergence in the Legal Workplace – Legal Up Virtual Conference 2025 by InfoTrack

Ally Kvidt — Mon, 15 Dec 2025 15:15:44 +0000

Neurodivergence is far more common in the legal profession than many realize and when supported thoughtfully, it can be a powerful asset. In this special episode of On the Road, legal professional and advocate Christina Hough shares practical insights on working more effectively with neurodivergent attorneys, paralegals, clients, and colleagues. Drawing from both personal experience and decades in the legal field, Hough explores how conditions such as ADHD, autism, PTSD, and other neurodivergent traits can influence communication, learning styles, sensory processing, and collaboration.

From inclusive meeting practices and clearer communication strategies to simple workplace accommodations that improve focus and outcomes, this episode offers a roadmap for building more inclusive, productive legal environments while recognizing the unique strengths neurodivergent professionals bring to the practice of law.

Christina Hough is a neurodivergent legal professional, speaker, and advocate with more than 23 years of experience in the legal field.

Thriving in Big Law: Insights for the Next Generation

Ally Kvidt — Mon, 15 Dec 2025 12:00:28 +0000

In this episode of The Legal Report from Robert Half, host Jamy Sullivan sits down with Imani Maatuka, Commercial Litigation Managing Associate at Sidley Austin LLP. Imani shares insights on what leadership and development look like for early-career attorneys in Big Law, the role of mentorship and feedback in professional growth, and ways law firms can invest in culture and meaningful development to retain high-performing talent.

When Does AI Content Use Cross the Line?

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 12 Dec 2025 12:00:40 +0000

Many are relying heavily on genAI to create their content—whether it be emails, marketing copy, social posts, or a seeming myriad of other applications. But, is this overreliance and lack of human creativity a sprint toward mediocrity? Dennis and Tom discuss the slippery slope of AI content creation, emphasizing the risk of sub-quality work and exploring possible legal issues that could arise from excessive AI dependence coupled with a lack of oversight.

Later, what exactly is “AI slop”? The guys define this AI phenomenon and discuss whether people can still effectively use genAI without producing inane drivel.

As always, stay tuned for the parting shots, that one tip, website, or observation that you can use the second the podcast ends.

Have a technology question for Dennis and Tom? Call their Tech Question Hotline at 720-441-6820 for the answers to your most burning tech questions.

Show Notes:

Creating a Tech-Driven Solo Practice with Nate Cade | First Flight #11

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 11 Dec 2025 12:00:50 +0000

When Milwaukee attorney Nate Cade left big law, he wasn’t just starting a firm — he was rebuilding his entire work life around flexibility, technology, and intention. He shares how shedding committees and tradition helped him design a virtual, modern practice from day one, why an iPad and curiosity turned him into a tech-first lawyer years before it was common, and how testing every tool himself led to a streamlined firm that serves clients better from anywhere. Then, ALPS Insurance’s Rio Laine joins host Adriana Linares to explore what remote-first solos must plan for, how discipline and smart systems act as your “secret” backup plan, and why supervision, cybersecurity, and dedicated hardware matter even more when your whole team works from home.

Receive email notifications every time we release a new episode.

Client Care, Culture, and Character: A Framework for Great Leaders, with William O’Neal

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 11 Dec 2025 12:00:22 +0000

Episode 592 of the Lawyerist Podcast shows how strengthening your leadership can become the most reliable lever for firm growth. Stephanie Everett and service expert William O’Neal break down the communication habits, value alignment, and client-experience systems that help teams build trust faster, reduce friction, and perform at a higher level.

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!

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

Know Your Enemy—Or Your Competitors, At Least!

Ally Kvidt — Wed, 10 Dec 2025 09:00:32 +0000

Where are your competitors spending their marketing money? Gyi and Conrad’s insights into this valuable data can help you stay ahead of the rivals in your market.

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:

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

Community Table: Client Relations From First Call to Alternative Fee and Payment Methods

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 09 Dec 2025 12:00:31 +0000

In this episode’s discussions around the Community Table, recorded in person at the October 2025 ClioCon legal tech conference:

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.

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

Surviving the Zero-Click Era: What Lawyers Must Know About SEO and AI, with Cyrus Shepard

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 04 Dec 2025 12:00:19 +0000

Episode 591 of the Lawyerist Podcast explores one of the most urgent questions facing law firms today: how do you stay findable when Google and AI are rewriting the rules of search? SEO expert Cyrus Shepard explains how zero-click search, AI-generated answers, and new “experience” signals are transforming the way law firms must think about content, visibility, and online authority.

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!

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

The Truth About Marketing Attribution || LHLM Takeout

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 04 Dec 2025 09:00:02 +0000

Craving a sneak peak of our live recording from Filevine’s Lex Summit? This year, Filevine’s Josh Hostilo and Stefanie Minter joined us at the table table to tackle one of the most confusing—and most important—topics in legal marketing: accurate attribution. Gyi and Conrad dig into how Lead Docket approaches first-touch, last-touch, and dual-source attribution, why “How did you hear about us?” still matters, and how UTMs, web forms, call tracking, and client feedback all get folded together to give firms real visibility into ROI. We even get into Google Ads optimization, Zapier webhooks, and the surprising disconnect between what clients say and what the data actually shows.

This is just a small appetizer. Check out the extended interview on YouTube!

EP 923- Parental Support Benefits Part Two

Ally Kvidt — Wed, 03 Dec 2025 12:00:10 +0000

Data shows that family building benefits improve productivity and support employee’s mental and physical health. It’s a win-win, but many employers may balk at the expense. Sarah Moore discusses low cost ways to retain and gain key employees.

Strategies for Mindful Business Development

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 02 Dec 2025 12:00:30 +0000

In this episode, we discuss the topic every litigator must deal with at some point: effective business development strategies. Guests Maureen Cruz, Ph.D., and Tracey Salmon-Smith, both with the firm of Faegre Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP, share tips for new business development.

Waiting for the phone to ring and a client to drop into your lap isn’t a strategy. Running a practice and serving current needs take up a lot of your time. But if you can, try to carve out at least 10 to 15 percent of your time to network, follow up with clients, and put yourself in front of new clients and new environments.

Client and business development is a deliberate process. Start by setting some time aside on your calendar.

Keep up with those touchpoints and connections. Talk with colleagues across your firm. Read something that might impact a client’s interests? Pass it along. Whether it’s through publishing, speaking, networking, ABA involvement, or pro bono work, listen to two experienced professionals describe how to mindfully build your business.

Have a question, comment, or suggestion for an upcoming episode? Get in touch at MRogson@SkywardInsurance.com and JAReeder@JonesDay.com.

Resources:

2026 Women in Litigation CLE Conference

American Bar Association

American Bar Association Litigation Section

Building an AI Chief of Staff

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 28 Nov 2025 12:00:21 +0000

What if you had an AI that not only assisted you, but acted as a highly trained source of strategic support in your day-to-day work? Dennis and Tom explore the idea of creating an AI Chief of Staff that could function in an organizational or advisory role. They share their experimental approach, walk through their methods for developing and training the AI to work for them, and discuss the challenges they’ve encountered along the way.

Later, they shift to a common pitfall: buying technology to solve law firm pain points, only to discover it isn’t the right fit. The guys break down what you need to know before investing in that next shiny tech solution.

As always, stay tuned for the parting shots, that one tip, website, or observation that you can use the second the podcast ends.

Have a technology question for Dennis and Tom? Call their Tech Question Hotline at 720-441-6820 for the answers to your most burning tech questions.

Show Notes – Kennedy-Mighell Report #405

A Segment: Building an AI Chief of Staff

B Segment: We Answer a Question from our ChatGPT Audience

Parting Shots:

Android and iPhone users can now share files, starting with the Pixel 10 family.
The VergeCast Extreme Smart Home Makeover: Extreme smart home makeover – Gadgets

Innovating Without Overwhelm: Practical AI Tips for Lawyers, with Graydon Trusler

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 27 Nov 2025 12:00:30 +0000

In episode 590 of Lawyerist Podcast, learn how practical, everyday AI can help lawyers work smarter—not harder. Zack Glaser sits down with Graydon Trusler, a practical AI specialist and longtime law-firm operations pro, to explore how attorneys can use “productive laziness” to eliminate repetitive tasks, streamline case management, and reclaim valuable time. Graydon shares real examples from his family law firm, including how custom AI assistants help review discovery, prep hearings, analyze documents, and even support lawyers in the courtroom. Together, they break down privacy concerns, adoption hurdles, and simple ways to start using AI without getting overwhelmed.

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!

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

Security. There Is Nothing More Important in Law Firm Tech

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 27 Nov 2025 12:00:22 +0000

Security, security, security. In your law firm’s tech package, there is probably no more important word than security. Your clients depend on it. Your business depends on it.

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.

Don’t Get Duped: How to Spot BS Marketing Metrics

Ally Kvidt — Wed, 26 Nov 2025 09:00:16 +0000

It’s surprisingly easy for a marketing agency to make underperforming campaigns look like wins. How do you guard yourself against marketers who exaggerate your results? Also, NAP consistency—the definitive answer!

Yeah, it’s scummy, but not all marketers have your best interests at heart. More perniciously, data can be spun and credit can be misattributed. Less so, inexperienced consultants misinterpret your campaign data and draw the wrong conclusions. Either way, bad insights lead to bad decisions—and those decisions can cost your firm big. You, dear lawyer, need to know enough about your marketing data to avoid being taken advantage of. Gyi and Conrad are here to help.

Later, the guys answer a YouTube question on NAP (Name-Address-Phone) consistency. So, is your NAP consistency negatively affected by using a call tracking number along with your primary phone number? Usually, no! Unless you screwed something up on your site—Gyi tells you how to make sure everything’s as kosher as a pickle.

The News:

Darnit—the robots aren’t supposed to solve your legal problems anymore: OpenAI is no longer giving legal advice.
To retract, or not to retract… For now, we’ll call it a news update: Scorpion confirmed that they do break out branded vs. non-branded campaigns in their reporting, so that’s good.

Listen Next:

Mindful Gifting || Resolutions Past and Future

Connect:

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

What Are You Working For? Money, or Wealth. There’s a Difference.

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 25 Nov 2025 12:00:56 +0000

Today’s episode is about you and your mindset as it pertains to generating wealth through your business. Guest Lauren A. Klein was a corporate attorney when she came to a crossroads, would she follow the corporate path and accept a paycheck, or strike out on her own and build wealth on her terms.

She started by asking questions about how lawyers make money and build wealth. What does it actually mean to make partner at a firm? And she came to the conclusion that there had to be more, that she could do better on her own, knowing full well, as she says, running a law firm is “not for the weak of heart.”

In addition to driving the elder law and estate planning firm Flourish Law Firm she co-founded with her best friend, she’s also the host of the podcast “The Wealthy Law Squad.” She learned from corporate law that getting a salary and spending it on lifestyle isn’t wealth. Wealth is investing, creating tools that generate passive income, and building net worth.

What can you invest in today that gives you the financial freedom to do whatever you want later? A “wealth mindset” is about creating freedom, not being chained to the golden handcuffs of a paycheck. What are you working toward?

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

Mastering Excel for Law Firms: Tips Lawyers Actually Need, with Barron Henley

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 20 Nov 2025 12:00:06 +0000

In episode 589 of Lawyerist Podcast, Stephanie sits down with Barron Henley of Affinity Consulting to talk about the practical, real-world ways law firms can use Excel to save time, reduce errors, and streamline everyday work.

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!

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

Common Cases Prevalent in Real Estate Errors & Omissions (E&O) Claims

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 20 Nov 2025 12:00:02 +0000

Expert Service Provider Richard Rosenblum addresses what real estate brokerages are currently experiencing as their most prevalent E&O claims exposure points and what can be done to reduce risk.

EP 922- Parental Support Benefits Part One

Ally Kvidt — Wed, 19 Nov 2025 12:00:23 +0000

How do you get support and resources to build your family in a male dominated industry? Guest Sarah Moore discusses the importance of parental support benefits for families and employers.

Strategies for Growth: Training, Teamwork & Client Experience – Legal Up Virtual Conference 2025 by InfoTrack

Ally Kvidt — Mon, 17 Nov 2025 12:00:11 +0000

Growing a law firm isn’t just about new clients. It’s about building a strong team and a seamless client experience. In this special episode of On the Road, paralegal and law-firm operations consultant Eda Rosa breaks down the long-term strategies firms need to scale sustainably. She explains why continual staff training, proactive workflows, clear communication, and data-driven systems are essential to reducing bottlenecks and improving client satisfaction. From strengthening internal processes to empowering your front-line team, discover how intentional structure and collaboration can elevate your firm’s performance and set the foundation for future growth.

Eda Rosa is a paralegal, educator, and law-firm operations consultant specializing in workflow optimization and team development.

Fresh Voices on Legal Tech with Mary Mack

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 14 Nov 2025 12:00:56 +0000

AI, GenAI, agentic AI—what’s the difference between these forms of artificial intelligence? Dennis and Tom welcome Mary Mack of EDRM to talk through the latest in AI developments and how they are impacting legal in multitudinous ways. Mary also shares how her unique career blend of IT and law came about and offers her unique perspective on the opportunities in today’s market for technology careers adjacent to the legal profession.

As always, stay tuned for the parting shots, that one tip, website, or observation that you can use the second the podcast ends.

Have a technology question for Dennis and Tom? Call their Tech Question Hotline at 720-441-6820 for the answers to your most burning tech questions.

Show Notes:

Practice Smarter, Not Harder: 411 Tips for Modern Lawyers, with Jordan Couch

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 13 Nov 2025 12:00:11 +0000

In episode 588 of the Lawyerist Podcast, discover how small shifts in mindset and management can make law practice less chaotic and more rewarding. Zack Glaser sits down with Jordan Couch of Palace Law to explore lessons from his book, 411 Tips for Solo and Small Firm Lawyers. They cover everything from client service and writing habits to creativity and innovation, offering real-world advice to help lawyers build stronger, happier firms.

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

Building a Business-Minded Law Firm with Matthew Moeller | First Flight #10

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 13 Nov 2025 12:00:08 +0000

When Matthew Moeller launched his New Orleans law firm, he wasn’t just becoming a solo attorney— he was stepping into entrepreneurship. He shares how he turned lessons from a high-school retail job into business instincts for running a profitable practice, why he ditched file cabinets for the cloud, and how technology and specialization keep his firm agile and client-focused. Then, ALPS Insurance’s Rio Laine joins host Adriana Linares to unpack why business training, specialization, and tail coverage matter for every new solo.

Hear the original episode with Matthew Moeller

Receive email notifications every time we release a new episode.

Stuff You NEED to Know to Rank in Local Search with Darren Shaw

Ally Kvidt — Wed, 12 Nov 2025 16:30:44 +0000

Whitespark’s Local Search Ranking Factors Report surveys the best and the brightest SEOs (and Gyi and Conrad) to gain a clearer picture of the latest drivers of local search rankings. Understanding how to rank in Google’s local search results is critical to every single one of your marketing plans, so the guys welcome Darren Shaw to nerd out on this year’s report findings and teach you what to prioritize in your marketing efforts.

Darren and the guys have plenty of great knowledge tidbits to hash out–from the importance of accurate business hours to maintaining a visible address online to current AI search observations, and much more. Stick around to the end of the episode for some tactical tips on making LSAs work for your law firm!

The News:

Top Dog Acquires Keller Swan – Always a good day for an acquisition, buuut… Florida? Really?
AIO Impact on Google CTR: September 2025 Update – Click-through rates are way down—Should you care? It might be time to shift your focus elsewhere.
Great insights here, folks: Future-Proofing Your Firm in the Age of AI, with Jack Newton – Lawyerist #587

Listen Next:

How to Rank with Google AI Mode

Connect:

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

Community Table: From ClioCon 2025, Navigating a Tech Show

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 11 Nov 2025 12:00:36 +0000

In this episode’s discussions around the Community Table, recorded in person at the October 2025 ClioCon legal tech conference:

When you attend a legal tech conference such as ClioCon, how do you keep from being overwhelmed by the firehose of information and new tech tools. AI? E-discovery? Vendors? Marketing? It’s a lot.
Working in a rural area, it can be difficult to find and hire new attorneys. Step up your recruiting marketing and consider that with today’s remote tools, maybe your next hire doesn’t have to live in your region.
When hiring a non-attorney salesperson, how do you prepare them? Trying to teach them “the law” can be both irrelevant and perilous. Listening to potential clients and demonstrating how your firm can solve their problems is what matters.

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

Future-Proofing Your Firm in the Age of AI, with Jack Newton

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 06 Nov 2025 12:00:07 +0000

In episode 587 of Lawyerist Podcast, discover how your firm can stay competitive, efficient, and future-ready by embracing artificial intelligence. Stephanie Everett talks with Jack Newton, CEO and founder of Clio, about how small firms can leverage AI to streamline workflows, make smarter decisions, and outpace slower-moving competitors.

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!

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

Easy, Efficient Billing for Your Law Firm | ClioCon 2025

Ally Kvidt — Mon, 03 Nov 2025 12:00:47 +0000

The best payment experiences are transparent and simple, but far too many law firms struggle with awkward payment barriers for their clients. Stephanie Everett welcomes A.J. Axelrod of Clio to discuss modern and secure billing practices for law firms. They consider common errors and archaic methods that may lead to profit losses, share insights from the Legal Trends Report, and talk about how Clio’s billing software can help you ensure best practices in client payments.

A.J. Axelrod is Clio’s Vice President of Payments and Financial Services.

Good Governance – Continuity, Culture, and Change

Ally Kvidt — Mon, 03 Nov 2025 12:00:05 +0000

Strong governance keeps a bar association thriving through generations of leadership. In this episode, host Amanda Arriaga sits down with leaders from the Allegheny County Bar Association to explore how their thoughtful leadership, strategic planning, and commitment to mission and values has brought lasting success.

Executive Director Dave Blaner, Assistant Executive Director Thomas Petropoulos, President Amy Coco, Immediate Past President Regina Wilson, and President-Elect Daniel Fitzsimmons share how their organization has built a culture of stability and innovation. As Mr. Blaner prepares to retire in the summer of 2026, he, Mr. Petropoulos and the leadership of the Bar association discuss the multi-year leadership transition process that has prepared the association for seamless continuity as they move into the future.

From maintaining financial health to deeply investing in legal community relationships, this conversation highlights how the ACBA continues to grow and adapt while staying true to its mission—proving that effective governance is both an art and a long-term investment in the bar’s legacy.

Fresh Voices on Legal Tech with Michael Kraft

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 31 Oct 2025 11:00:11 +0000

When teaching technology, empathy and patience are key to helping the learner engage and understand tech’s necessary role in legal practice. Dennis and Tom talk with Michael Kraft about his many years in IT service to legal professionals. They discuss practical methods for encouraging tech competence, favorite tools for collaboration, recent legal tech trends, AI, and much more. Michael also shares insights into his fascinating career path in legal technology, with an early start founding Kraft Kennedy in 1988—a business that has grown into a trusted IT solutions provider in the legal industry and beyond.

As always, stay tuned for the parting shots, that one tip, website, or observation that you can use the second the podcast ends.

Have a technology question for Dennis and Tom? Call their Tech Question Hotline at 720-441-6820 for the answers to your most burning tech questions.

Show Notes:

Beyond Politics: Standing for the Rule of Law, with Bill Bay

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 30 Oct 2025 11:00:25 +0000

In episode 586 of Lawyerist Podcast, learn how lawyers can help safeguard democracy by defending the rule of law and protecting judicial independence. In this episode, Stephanie Everett talks with Bill Bay, Immediate Past President of the American Bar Association, about why these issues transcend politics and define the integrity of the legal profession. Together, they discuss how every lawyer can lead with grace, model civil discourse, and stand up for fairness, equality, and due process.

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!

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

AI Is Shaking Up the Legal Field (But Humans Are Still Vital)

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 28 Oct 2025 11:00:03 +0000

AI helps us do a lot, and a lot faster. But there are still tasks that need the human touch. Guest Jens Erik Gould is the founder and CEO of the Amalga Group, a specialized staffing outsourcing service that helps tech and legal businesses (among others) find and employ cost-saving staffing services outside the United States but located close to the country, a function known as “nearshoring.”

With services available in Latin America, close to the United States, Amalga Group helps legal services providers and law firms with tasks such as record retrieval, paralegal services, discovery, transcription, and legal assistance. By employing teams in Latin America, employers get a similar time zone and a close cultural fit.

AI is making great strides accomplishing routine tasks such as contract review, document retrieval, billing, and summarization. But AI can’t (yet) match the human capacity for making ethical decisions, understanding and solving nuanced problems, and finding creative answers.

Hear where Gould sees AI making gains and where it falls short and how law firms still need trained staffers to ensure accuracy and professional results, and how firms can adopt a hybrid model that leverages the capabilities of both AI and human near-sourced staffing. What will the new model look like, and how will successful firms meld tech and people?

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.

How Solid Workflows Can Save Your Solo Practice from Chaos | First Flight #9

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 23 Oct 2025 11:00:41 +0000

Starting your solo firm means building good habits from day one and that begins with your intake process. In this episode of New Solo: First Flight, host Adriana Linares revisits her conversation with Chad Burton, co-founder of Modern Law Practice and CEO of CuroLegal, about how thoughtful workflows create better client relationships and fewer headaches.

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

Receive email notifications every time we release a new episode.

First Aid for the Mind: Mental Health in Law, with Soumya Palreddy & Jill Kluesner

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 23 Oct 2025 11:00:19 +0000

In episode 585 of Lawyerist Podcast, Soumya Palreddy and Jill Kluesner explain how Mental Health First Aid equips lawyers to recognize signs of burnout, stress, and crisis—before they escalate. Learn practical tools for building healthier teams, reducing stigma, and improving communication in high-pressure firms.

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!

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

EP 920- Protecting Your Bar License: A Cautionary Tale

Ally Kvidt — Wed, 22 Oct 2025 11:00:32 +0000

One shortcut could had serious repercussions for multiple attorneys. This real-life case is a reminder of our ethical responsibilities and the consequences you can face once your name is on that motion.

Not All Leads Are Created Equal

Ally Kvidt — Wed, 22 Oct 2025 08:00:14 +0000

Bungling lead follow-up and neglecting to learn AI’s many, many profitable uses in your law firm will definitely come back to haunt you. Learn how to do it right!

Changing the way you handle your leads can be a game changer for your business. Gyi and Conrad talk through the latest trends in AI-powered lead qualification and how to recognize the most valuable—and profitable—potential clients in your marketing channels.

Later, in a world where data-informed decision making is critical for business success, do small firms have enough data to make it useful, whether it be for AI or other business growth needs? The guys discuss.

The News:

New lead products offer plenty of variety for your growth strategy! Check out the latest lead scoring products from Lawmatics (Qualify AI), Filevine (Lead Docket with LeadsAI), and Clio (Clio Grow Leads).
Check out Bob Ambrogi’s detailed article for more on Lawmatics: Exclusive: Lawmatics Announces Qualify AI, A Sophisticated Lead Scoring Platform for Law Firms | LawSites
Clio’s 2025 Legal Trends Report is ready for your perusal! We’ll dig into it here on the pod at a later date.
Acquisitions… vLex & Clio Library are joining forces, and ShareDo joins Clio’s fold.

Suggested LHLM Episodes:

Clio’s All-In with Scorpion – Who Gets Stung? | Legal Industry | Lunch Hour Legal Marketing

Connect:

The AI Marketing Cookbook for Lawyers

How to Stay Human in the Age of AI-Driven Law Firm Marketing, with Conroy Creative

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 21 Oct 2025 11:00:32 +0000

In episode 584 of Lawyerist Podcast, Zack Glaser sits down with longtime legal marketing expert Karin Conroy of Conroy Creative Counsel to talk about the evolution of law firm marketing in the age of artificial intelligence.

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

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!

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

From Survival to Strategy: Scaling Your Law Firm Finances, with Bernadette Harris

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 16 Oct 2025 11:00:51 +0000

In episode 583 of the Lawyerist Podcast, Zack Glaser talks with Bernadette Harris, business strategist and finance coach at Lawyerist, about how to move beyond “survival mode” and into strategic, scalable growth.

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

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

Community Table: Origination Fees for New Hires, “It Gets Weird”

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 11:00:40 +0000

In this episode’s discussions around the Community Table:

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

Key Metrics Every Law Firm Should Track – Legal Up Virtual Conference 2025 by InfoTrack

Ally Kvidt — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 11:00:27 +0000

What gets measured gets improved. In this On the Road episode, Bryan Billig, VP of Customer Education at Assembly Software, breaks down the most important data points law firms should be tracking—and the ones they shouldn’t stress over. From intake sources and case inventory to staff productivity and marketing ROI, Bryan explains how to turn firm data into actionable insights. Learn how consistent data entry, smart reporting, and a culture of measurement can reveal bottlenecks, boost efficiency, and strengthen your bottom line.

Bryan Billig is Vice President of Customer Education at Assembly Software.

Getting Serious About Well-Being in the Legal Profession. Are You OK?

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 09 Oct 2025 11:00:35 +0000

How are you doing? No, really, how are you doing? Guest Chris Newbold is not only the COO of ALPS Insurance – a leader in malpractice insurance for solo and small legal practices – he’s also a recognized driver in the nationwide movement to ensure well-being in the legal profession.

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

Deepfakes, Data, and Duty: Navigating AI Ethics in Law, with Merisa Bowers

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 09 Oct 2025 11:00:23 +0000

In episode 582 of Lawyerist Podcast, Zack Glaser talks with Merisa Bowers, Loss Prevention and Outreach Counsel at the Ohio Bar Liability Insurance Company, about how artificial intelligence is reshaping lawyers’ ethical duties.

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!

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

Beyond CLE, Training for Life and Living as a Paralegal Professional

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 09 Oct 2025 11:00:23 +0000

Paralegals can find themselves on an island at the workplace, left without training, mentorship, and opportunities for growth and advancement in a sink or swim environment. It doesn’t have to be that way.

Guest Eda Rosa is a former paralegal who founded her own firm, Eda Rosa LLC, in 2017. The legal consulting and training company is dedicated to transforming the legal industry from the inside out. Rosa says CLE classes are fine for the nuts and bolts, but what about training to avoid burnout and build “soft skills” that make life and work better?

Training shouldn’t stop with paralegal classes and company onboarding. Continuous education and team building exercises ensure teams remain strong and develop as a unit. Every player on a legal team has a role, failure to bring along every player hurts the entire firm.

Hear how Rosa “learned by doing,” growing into her own professional self, earning a master’s degree in law, and then turned her insights into a mission to help paralegal professionals advance their careers and live their best lives both in and out of the office.

Resources:

Previous appearance on the Legal Talk Network, Legal Rebels, “What Does the Future Hold for Licensed Paraprofessionals?”

NALA, The Paralegal Association

NALA Conference & Expo 2026

Uncovering Your Natural Gifts as a Lawyer – Legal Up Virtual Conference 2025 by InfoTrack

Ally Kvidt — Mon, 06 Oct 2025 11:00:19 +0000

Finding fulfillment in your legal career goes beyond technical skills. In this On the Road episode, Chad Aboud, Chief Commercial Officer at Good Lawyer and keynote speaker at the 2025 Legal Up Virtual Conference, shares how attorneys can uncover their natural gifts, align them with meaningful goals, and identify the environments where they thrive. Drawing from his own journey from big law to in-house roles to his current position, Chad outlines three core pillars that help lawyers design careers that feel purposeful, energizing, and impactful. Whether you’re just starting out or seeking a reset, discover practical steps to “job craft” a path that brings out your best.

Chad Aboud is Chief Commercial Officer at Good Lawyer.

Fresh Voices on Legal Tech with Marc Lauritsen

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 03 Oct 2025 11:00:15 +0000

Is true technology competence possible? The speed at which technology advances is now impossible to stay completely ahead of, but as lawyers, a commitment to lifelong learning and a focus on the humanistic side of law can help us engage effectively. Dennis and Tom talk with Marc Lauristen about his work with legal technology, lawyers, and law students. They talk through the challenges and opportunities surrounding AI, ways to manage technology education and implementation in the profession, and why being a good human is essential in our efforts to blend legal practice and services with helpful technologies.

As always, stay tuned for the parting shots, that one tip, website, or observation that you can use the second the podcast ends.

Have a technology question for Dennis and Tom? Call their Tech Question Hotline at 720-441-6820 for the answers to your most burning tech questions.

Marc Lauritsen is a Massachusetts lawyer and educator who helps people work more effectively through knowledge systems.

Show Notes:

Agentic AI for Lawyers: Moving Beyond Enhanced Search, with Drew Bloom

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 02 Oct 2025 11:00:55 +0000

In episode 581 of Lawyerist Podcast, Zack Glaser talks with Drew Bloom of Affinity Consulting Group about how artificial intelligence is evolving from assistants into agents that can act on a lawyer’s behalf. Instead of just suggesting edits or answers, agentic AI can redline contracts, search multiple documents, and connect across platforms to finish tasks before asking for approval.

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

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

Checking In! We drop in on previous guest Andrew Schierberg and see how he’s doing as he went from a police officer to a lawyer.

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 25 Sep 2025 11:00:26 +0000

Guest Andrew Schierberg is a former police officer and a police chief who opened his own solo law firm two years ago and has been growing it ever since. What does he miss from his first career, and what has he learned as a lawyer?

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

Knee Deep in Escheating: Intricacies of Lawyer Trust Accounts, with Amy Woods

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 25 Sep 2025 11:00:22 +0000

In episode 579 of Lawyerist Podcast, learn how to manage your IOLTA accounts correctly and avoid disciplinary pitfalls. Stephanie Everett talks with Amy Woods, founder of IOLTA Consulting, about the most common mistakes lawyers make with trust accounts and what to do instead.

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

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

EP 918- Raising the Bar by Improving “the Bar” with Megan Phillips Part One

Ally Kvidt — Wed, 24 Sep 2025 11:00:09 +0000

Megan Phillips is a federal law clerk and passionate advocate for improving the working lives of Missouri attorneys. Get to know her and some of the important work she’s done in part one of our conversation.

Lights, Camera, Marketing! Making a Better Impression on Camera.

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 23 Sep 2025 11:00:18 +0000

How you appear on camera is how you appear to future clients. And today, you’re pretty much always on camera. Guest Kerry Barrett, an Emmy Award-winning television journalist, helps attorneys present their best self on camera, whether that’s on a Zoom call, on YouTube, or when being interviewed by a TV crew. Project authority, build trust, and attract high value clients through video.

As Barrett says, that “little red light” can seem like the devil. It’s hard to avoid looking camera shy and stiff. But she taps into 20 years of on-camera experience to coach and guide attorneys. Being on camera doesn’t come naturally, it takes training and practice.

Barrett’s lessons apply across the board, whether you’re a lawyer offering an expert opinion, a law firm marketer producing content, or an attorney coaching clients to appear on video in recorded depositions.

Think it’s not important? The reality is that today we’re all pretty much on camera all day. You are how you look, and connecting with your audience matters. When the camera turns its eye on you, do you look genuine and engaging, or do you look like you’re reading a hostage note? Improving your video skills is no longer an option.

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

All Eyes On You: How Lawyers Can Harness Video for Visibility – Legal Up Virtual Conference by InfoTrack

Ally Kvidt — Mon, 22 Sep 2025 11:00:30 +0000

Video is no longer optional. It’s essential. In this special episode of On the Road, attorney, content creator, and video consultant Temi Siyanbade shares how legal professionals can harness video to expand their reach, build authority, and attract aligned opportunities. She introduces her “READY” framework, guiding lawyers through practical steps to reframe visibility, establish a clear message, assemble simple gear, draft with direction, and most importantly— say yes to showing up. From building client trust to positioning yourself as a leader, discover why visibility through video isn’t vanity, but a bold move toward the future of law.

Temi Siyanbade is an attorney, content creator, and video consultant for legal professionals.

400! Celebrating the Kennedy-Mighell Report’s Quadricentennial

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 19 Sep 2025 11:00:55 +0000

Debbie Foster hosts this edition of the Kennedy-Mighel Report to talk with Dennis and Tom about their 19 years and 400 episodes of podcasting! They talk through the past, present, and future of the podcast, discussing how they’ve remained in the space for so long, cringy and favorite moments from podcasts past, and what they’ve learned over many years together. They also talk about their future plans for the show and how new technology trends are influencing both the podcast and the broader legal profession.

As always, stay tuned for the parting shots, that one tip, website, or observation that you can use the second the podcast ends.

Have a technology question for Dennis and Tom? Call their Tech Question Hotline at 720-441-6820 for the answers to your most burning tech questions.

Show Notes:

SaneBox – email helper
Superhuman.ai
Comet AI Browser – Dennis and Tom have invites!
WebSync full site importer for NotebookLM – Chrome Web Store
NotebookLM – Youtube Link (Source) Automator – extracts YouTube video lists and links and automates adding them to Notebook LM
Recomendo
Pro Tip: Pay the $20 a month for a pro AI subscription. If you are already buying one, buy another and compare them!

Mastering Memory: How Lawyers Can Train Their Brains, with Nelson Dellis

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 18 Sep 2025 11:00:51 +0000

In episode 578 of Lawyerist Podcast, six-time USA Memory Champion and Grand Master of Memory Nelson Dellis shares practical strategies to strengthen recall, sharpen focus, and build a healthier brain. Far from the myth of “photographic memory,” Nelson explains how anyone can improve memory using techniques like memory palaces, visualization, and storytelling.

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

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

Blazing a Trail: The Role of Paralegal Associations in a Changing World

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 12 Sep 2025 11:00:44 +0000

The paralegal profession is evolving at breakneck speed, driven by emerging technology such as AI and the era of “video connectivity” brought on by the pandemic. It’s up to paralegal associations to keep up.

Guests Milady Cambare and Travis Chow are veteran paralegals and the respective presidents of the Orange County and Los Angeles paralegal associations. They share how their associations are working to stay ahead of technology and ensure no member is left behind or left out.

Today’s information jungle can be beneficial, including social media, Chow says, and paralegals need to keep up with the array of technology. But, Cambare adds, there is still space for in-person events, such as dinner cruises, conferences, and even ice cream socials. As tech takes over more of our lives, she says it’s vital that associations remember the importance of in-person events that connect generations of paralegal professionals.

Cambare and Chow are trailblazers in the paralegal field, envisioning the future of paralegal associations and championing the value of membership, networking, and lifelong learning. Hear how association membership and engagement is more important today than ever before.

Rethinking Law Firm Growth in the Age of AI, with Sam Harden

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 11 Sep 2025 11:00:52 +0000

In episode #577 of Lawyerist Podcast, discover how to use AI to drive firm growth, expand practice areas, and strengthen client relationships while avoiding the trap of treating it as a simple efficiency tool. Too often, conversations about AI in law stop at shaving time off tasks or reducing headcount, but AI holds far more potential than cost-cutting. Innovation strategist Sam Harden explains why firms should resist the temptation to view AI as a staff replacement and instead embrace it as a growth engine. By experimenting with generative tools and even “vibe coding,” lawyers can create new services, improve client experiences, and reach entirely new markets. Rather than narrowing practice, AI can open doors to expansion, innovation, and more sustainable business models—helping firms future-proof themselves in a rapidly evolving market.

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

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

Shared Spaces, Separate Firms: How Conti Moore and Barbara Leach Built a Unique Solo Partnership | First Flight #8

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 11 Sep 2025 11:00:35 +0000

What does it look like when two solos run completely independent practices—but still share staff, expenses, and even office celebrations? In this episode of New Solo’s First Flight series, Adriana Linares revisits her interview with Orlando attorneys Conti Moore and Barbara Leach to unpack how they crafted a “work wife” arrangement that saves money, boosts efficiency, and provides daily collaboration without merging firms.

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

Receive email notifications every time we release a new episode.

Community Table: Ditching Billable Hours, Maximizing Earning Potential

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 09 Sep 2025 11:00:57 +0000

In this episode’s discussions around the Community Table:

The Un-Billable Hour takes on a very real move away from the “billable hour.” As Christopher says, the billable hour “is the worst thing that ever happened to law.” Clients pay for results, not time. Examine alternative fee structures as technology changes the practice of law.
Young lawyers looking to maximize lifetime earnings have choices. Big firm partnership track or solo practice? Ask yourself if you have the “fire” under you to build a practice from nothing, because there’s no ceiling on earnings when you build your dream. But if that’s not you, maybe the big law firm path is right.
No matter where you are, knowing where you want to get to is hard. Christopher explains how charting a career path takes a real, conscious effort, and it can change over time. Make time for contemplation and move with purpose.

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

This is Your Second Brain on AI

Ally Kvidt — Mon, 08 Sep 2025 14:30:15 +0000

Are the guys on the verge of a major Second Brain breakthrough, hand in hand with AI? Dennis and Tom reexamine their ongoing Second Brain projects, discussing nagging questions about the efficacy of their current systems and how they plan to move forward with their personal knowledge management.

Later, a listener and long-time iPhone user wonders—are Android devices actually far superior? Tom has some major thoughts on the issue.

As always, stay tuned for the parting shots, that one tip, website, or observation that you can use the second the podcast ends.

Have a technology question for Dennis and Tom? Call their Tech Question Hotline at 720-441-6820 for the answers to your most burning tech questions.

Show Notes – This is Your Second Brain on AI

A Segment: This is Your Second Brain on AI

Notebook LM – https://notebooklm.google.com

B Segment: Should iPhone Users be Jealous of Android’s Obvious Superiority?

Google Pixel 10 https://store.google.com/category/phones?hl=en-US

Parting Shots:

Meaningful Wellbeing in Work/Life Imbalance

Ally Kvidt — Mon, 08 Sep 2025 11:00:42 +0000

Pursuing perfect “balance” in our work and personal lives may not actually be a reasonable goal. There will inevitably be times when either work or home needs more of your attention, and that’s okay. Instead of striving for an elusive sense of balance, focusing on setting meaningful boundaries and prioritizing well-being can help lawyers move toward a healthier mindset. Molly Ranns talks with Robinjit Eagleson about her many years in legal practice and how she has navigated seasons of burnout, vicarious trauma, and other professional challenges to reconnect with her personal values and sense of purpose as an attorney.

Robinjit Eagleson is Lawyer Services Program Director at State Bar of Michigan.

How Sponsorship, Empathy, and Failure Shape Great Leaders, with Michael Cohen

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 04 Sep 2025 11:00:11 +0000

In episode 576, learn how to lead with empathy, build trust, and create space for growth by embracing both mentorship and sponsorship. Stephanie Everett talks with Michael Cohen, partner at Duane Morris and leadership coach, about what it really takes to inspire and support a team.

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

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

Heard it on the Podcast: Guests Share How New Solo Got Them Started, Kept Them Going

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 28 Aug 2025 11:00:29 +0000

Checking in with returning guests Dean Blachford and Ella Sui, who started the Blachford Tax Law firm in Ottawa, Canada in 2021. Blachford is the tax lawyer and Sui is the clerk, paralegal, and more, forming a small tag team specializing in Canadian tax law.

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.

From Overwhelmed Lawyer to Strategic Law Firm Owner, with Chad Fox

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 28 Aug 2025 11:00:23 +0000

In episode #575 of Lawyerist Podcast, learn how to move beyond daily overwhelm and lead your firm with clarity, confidence, and vision as Stephanie Everett talks with Lawyerist Lab business strategist Chad Fox. Chad explains why so many lawyers get stuck in the weeds of $20/hour tasks instead of focusing on high-value CEO work, and how a mindset shift can create immediate clarity and hope. Together they explore the journey from business operator to business owner, the importance of dreaming bigger than what feels “realistic,” and how to delegate effectively without guilt. Real-life success stories highlight attorneys who have built thriving teams, scaled their practices, and reclaimed freedom, offering both inspiration and actionable strategies for sustainable law firm growth.

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

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

Niche Marketing, a Podcast About Marketing Through Podcasting

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 26 Aug 2025 11:00:06 +0000

Did your firm “set and forget” its marketing strategy? Today’s marketing has evolved beyond Google ads and billboards. Finding new, niche channels can tap new markets. Imagine a firm still relying solely on a Yellow Pages ad, that would be crazy. Times change.

Guest Carrolee Moore is the CEO and chief strategist at the Podcast Pitching Society, a firm dedicated to matching experienced experts to influential podcasts hungry for guests. Connect to listeners in your target audience, listeners who don’t know (yet) that they want to work with you. And pay you.

Moore helps clients stand out as thought leaders, experts, and trend setters. If you’ve been listening to The Un-Billable Hour (celebrating its 200th episode right here), you know the value of podcasts. Maybe you’ve been that captive audience listening on your commute or your morning jog. Learn to become a sought-after guest and to turn those appearances into revenue.

These are tips some traditional marketing agencies don’t want you to hear. Don’t hide your business or your expertise. You have wisdom to share, so get out there and shout. Reach new audiences that want to hear from you and hire you.

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

Community-Based Legal Solutions for Everyday Problems, with Rebecca Sandefur & Matthew Burnett

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 21 Aug 2025 11:00:45 +0000

Most people facing legal problems don’t see them as legal at all—they see them as life problems with landlords, employers, or benefits agencies. That disconnect leaves millions without meaningful help, even when lawyers or courts are available.

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

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

Celebrating 75 Years of NCBP

Ally Kvidt — Mon, 18 Aug 2025 11:00:25 +0000

In this special episode of Leading the Bar, we celebrate 75 years of the National Conference of Bar Presidents with outgoing president Dan Cotter and incoming president Patrick Palace. Host Amanda Arriaga leads a conversation about the evolving role of bar associations and the enduring mission of NCBP to empower, connect, and inspire legal leaders. They explore the evolving challenges and opportunities facing bar leaders today—from defending the rule of law amid growing politicization to bridging generational divides and embracing innovation. Dan and Patrick share candid insights on leadership, community-building, and how bar associations can remain vital in our rapidly changing legal landscape.

#573: From Courtroom to Community: Strengthening Your Support Network, with Kat Vellos

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 14 Aug 2025 11:00:28 +0000

Learn how to overcome busyness, start meaningful conversations, and build lasting adult friendships that enrich both your personal and professional life. In this episode, Stephanie Everett talks with Kat Vellos, author of We Should Get Together: The Secret to Cultivating Better Friendships, about practical ways to form new connections, deepen existing relationships, and create a sense of community. You’ll discover strategies for moving beyond small talk, making the most of your time, and using Kat’s four “seeds of connection” framework to help relationships thrive.

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

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

Clio’s All-In with Scorpion – Who Gets Stung?

Adam Lockwood — Wed, 13 Aug 2025 08:05:02 +0000

“Sole Preferred Partners”—does this new relationship mark a culture shift for Clio? Come for the puppy, stay for the hard-hitting analysis.

Clio and Scorpion’s efforts to fill a perceived void between law practice management and marketing has led to the inception of their sole preferred partnership in the legal marketplace. Is this exclusive relationship a culturally dissonant move in Clio’s previously open ecosystem?

The guys question Harsha Chandra Shekar of Clio and Kirby Oscar of Scorpion on the details of this partnership and how their promise of deep integrations and data sharing will affect both clients and competing marketers in the legal space.

Afterward, Gyi and Conrad give their takes on the interview, discussing both its potential and their persisting concerns. Is this really the partnership that will lift all boats in the legal industry, or is it just promoting your competitor down the street?

The News:

A recently fired summer associate tastes the bitterness of life: Who Knew Biting Other Lawyers Was Frowned Upon? – Thinking Like a Lawyer
Google LSAs have been removing the trust/verification marks we worked so hard for—another ploy for cash?
Get ready, folks. AIO ads are coming to…everything. Google briefs brands on AI Mode ads ahead of Q4 rollout
Shocker! Google is pushing more Google: Google Search Indexing & Ranking Near Me Google Maps Results
The GLM Summit is coming right up. Conrad is a speaker, LHLM is recording live, and it’ll be a great time all the way ‘round!
And, come on down to the Kaleidoscope 2025 conference by Affinipay to hear from Gyi!
What, another conference plug? This one might be our favorite—the Lunch Hour Legal Marketing Summit takes place 9/22-24, and August 22nd is the absolute drop-dead date for the early bird discount. Sign up now!

Suggested LHLM Episodes:

HELP! My Marketing Agency Was Acquired — What You NEED To Know

Connect: