Lawyerist Podcast - Legal Talk Network

From Practice to Business: Scaling Beyond Yourself, with Andy Hays

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 26 Feb 2026 12:00:53 +0000

In episode 604 of Lawyerist Podcast, Stephanie Everett sits down with Andy Hays to explore the shift from solo practitioner to true business owner. After nearly two decades of firm ownership, Andy shares why he recently rebranded to remove his personal name from the firm, a strategic move designed to reduce dependency on him and strengthen the firm’s future.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com.

Chapters / Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction

03:50 – Standards, KPIs & Hard Conversations

07:30 – Meet Andy

08:45 – Lessons from 18 Years in Practice

10:15 – Removing Your Name from the Firm

12:45 – Building a Firm You Can Sell

15:30 – Automation & Low Hanging Fruit

17:00 – Accountability & Team Meetings

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

21:15 – Hiring Strategically

23:30 – Expanding the Physical Office

25:40 – Closing Thoughts

Healing the High-Achieving Lawyer: Rethinking Sobriety and Success, with Melissa Silverstein

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 19 Feb 2026 12:00:10 +0000

In episode 604 of Lawyerist Podcast, discover how addressing alcohol and mental health can unlock greater clarity, confidence, and long-term success in your legal career. Stephanie Everett sits down with IP attorney and recovery coach Melissa Silverstein to talk about alcohol, achievement, and the hidden pressures inside the legal profession.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com.

Chapters / Timestamps:

00:00 – Intro & Conference Recap

08:30 – Melissa’s Story

10:00 – Achievement as a Mask

12:10 – Rethinking Abstinence

14:30 – Harm Reduction & Personal Choice

15:50 – Warning Signs in Law Practice

16:30 – The Role of the Bar

17:50 – Leadership & Language

20:00 – Rethinking Firm Events

23:10 – Career Growth After Recovery

26:00 – De-Stigmatizing Help

29:00 – Closing Thoughts

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

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

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

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)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The AI Marketing Cookbook for Lawyers

Listen to our previous episodes with Karin:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Smarter Law Firm Marketing: AI Tools That Actually Work, with FirmPilot

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

In episode 580 of the Lawyerist Podcast, Zack sits down with Jake Soffer, CEO and founder of FirmPilot, to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping law firm marketing. Forget generic blog posts and robotic content, Jake shares how FirmPilot uses AI and data science to build smarter, measurable strategies that actually attract clients.

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

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

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

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

Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com.

Chapters:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#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

#572: Practical Courage Skills Every Lawyer Needs, with Jim Detert

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 07 Aug 2025 11:00:22 +0000

Learn how to navigate difficult conversations, manage risk, and lead with integrity in legal settings by building courage as a practical skill. In this conversation, Stephanie Everett is joined by Jim Detert, professor at UVA’s Darden School of Business and author of Choosing Courage: The Everyday Guide to Being Brave at Work.

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

Legal professionals will gain:

Skills to manage fear and prepare for high-stakes conversations

A framework for building everyday workplace courage

Insight into the cost of silence in legal practice

Guidance on how to align personal values with professional conduct

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

Listen to our other episodes on personal leadership:

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

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

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

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

Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com.

Chapters/Timestamps:

0:00 – Contranyms & Clarity in Legal Language

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

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

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

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

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

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

13:18 – How to Start Tough Conversations Without Fluff

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

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

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

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

32:34 – First Steps to Practicing Everyday Courage

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

#571: What DEI Really Means for Small Law Firms, with Tanya Hernandez

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 31 Jul 2025 11:00:36 +0000

Many law firm owners want to foster inclusive workplaces—but aren’t sure how to do it without missteps or performative gestures. Professor Tanya Hernandez of Fordham Law School joins Stephanie Everett to unpack what DEI really means, where it comes from legally, and how small firms can approach it with clarity and intention.

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

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

Listen to our other episodes on DEI & Belonging:

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

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

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

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

Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com.

Chapters/Timestamps:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

28:27 – DEI Is Not Illegal: Clarifying Misconceptions

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

#570: Uncover Your Firm’s Journey with the New Small Firm Scorecard™, with Stephanie Everett

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 24 Jul 2025 11:00:53 +0000

Your law firm isn’t just a business—it’s an evolving system. And what works in one stage of growth can sink you in another.

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

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

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

Listen to our other episodes on Law Firm Growth :

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

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

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

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

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

Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com.

Chapters/Timestamps:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#569: Your Head is a Crappy Office, and Other GTD Principles for Attorneys, with David Allen

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 17 Jul 2025 11:00:47 +0000

Many lawyers feel overwhelmed by never-ending to-do lists, constant context-switching, and the mental clutter of trying to keep it all straight. In this episode, Zack Glaser talks with productivity pioneer David Allen, author of Getting Things Done (GTD), about how lawyers can break free from chaos and reclaim control—both personally and as a team.

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

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

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

Listen to our other episodes on systems & productivity:

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

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

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

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

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

Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com.

Chapters/Timestamps:

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

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

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

05:34 – Introducing the Small Firm Scorecard

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

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

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

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

27:06 – Avoiding Burnout with Weekly Reviews

31:25 – From High Performer to Dysfunctional Team

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

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

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

#568: How to Build a Law Firm You Can Sell, with Victoria L. Collier

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 10 Jul 2025 11:00:10 +0000

Most law firm owners build a business that depends entirely on them—then wonder why no one wants to buy it.

In this episode, we talk with Victoria Collier, founder of Quid Pro Quo, about how to build a firm that’s not only profitable, but truly sellable. Victoria shares what she learned selling her own estate planning and elder law firm after 18 years—and how she now helps other lawyers do the same.

You’ll learn what buyers actually look for (hint: it’s not just revenue), why your firm needs to run without you, and how a shift in mindset can create more freedom and future value. Victoria also shares surprising truths about law firm sales—like the possibility of getting cash upfront—and how AI is quickly becoming a key part of due diligence for buyers and sellers alike.

Listen to our other episodes on the selling your practice:

#369: Selling Your Practice, with Tom Lenfestey Apple | Spotify | Lawyerist

#326: A Succession Plan for Your Law Practice, with Tom Lenfestey Apple | 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:

00:00 – Introduction: The Mindset of a Sellable Law Firm

02:45 – The Dangers of Being the Bottleneck: Why Delegation Matters

06:58 – Lessons from a Successful Firm Sale: What Works and What Doesn’t

09:22 – What Buyers Look For: Red Flags and Green Lights in Your Firm

21:52 – Surprising Realities of Selling a Law Firm: Financing and Debt

31:21 – AI’s Role in Increasing Your Firm’s Value

34:02 – Life After Law: Preparing for Your Next Chapter

36:46 – The Fundamental Mindset Shift: Owning a Business, Not Just a Job

37:50 – Taking the First Steps Toward a Sellable Firm

#567: From Quiet to Confident: Redefining Success as an Introverted Lawyer, with Heidi Brown

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 03 Jul 2025 11:00:59 +0000

This episode of the Lawyerist Podcast offers a thorough exploration of understanding introversion, shyness, and social anxiety, and how these traits can be leveraged as strengths, particularly in the legal profession. You’ll hear Zack Glaser’s conversation with law professor and author Heidi Brown, who shares insights from her book, The Introverted Lawyer.

Heidi provides clarity on the distinctions between being an introvert—someone who processes information internally and recharges with solitude—versus shyness or social anxiety, which stem from a fear of judgment or criticism. Heidi Brown, a public speaker and author who identifies as an introvert, demonstrates that it’s possible to be confident and professionally effective while embracing introversion.

You’ll discover how introversion can be a “superpower,” bringing valuable assets such as active listening, thoughtful problem-solving, empathy, sensitivity to nuance, and strong writing skills to any professional dynamic. The conversation also covers practical steps for introverts to show up authentically and confidently, including mental and physical reflection techniques, reframing negative self-talk, and developing pre-game and game-day routines for high-pressure situations.

Heidi offers perspectives on supporting introverted team members to foster a shared vocabulary around individual strengths. Learn how to recognize and harness your unique qualities, or those of your team, to excel in the legal profession.

Listen to our other episodes:

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

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

#506: Managing Stress & Avoiding Burnout, with Emily Nagoski 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:

00:00 Introversion, Shyness, and Social Anxiety Defined

05:14 Internal vs. External Processing: Understanding Different Communication Styles 15:56 Introversion as a Superpower in the Legal Profession

18:32 Authenticity and Confidence: Mental and Physical Strategies

25:52 Embracing the Blush: Reframing Physical Responses

30:52 Building Confidence: The Power of Pregame and Game Day Routines

34:29 Supporting Introverts in the Workplace

41:36 Your Place in Law: A Message of Empowerment

#566: Building Solutions from Legal Experience, with Katya Fisher

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 26 Jun 2025 11:00:09 +0000

What happens when a lawyer stops accepting inefficiency as “just the way things are”? In this episode, Zack Glaser talks with attorney and legal tech founder Katya Fisher about her journey from launching a solo practice during the Great Recession to building scalable tools for transactional lawyers.

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

Along the way, Katya unpacks:

The scrappy start to her legal career

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

What legal professionals need to know about scaling their ideas

Why tech tools fail lawyers—and how that can change

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

Listen to our other episodes on entrepreneurship:

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

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

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

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

Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com.

Chapters/Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction: The Entrepreneurial Lawyer

01:02 Quarterly Planning: Intentional Business Growth

07:15 Solo Practice Origins: Scrappy Beginnings

13:36 The Competitive Advantage of Broad Experience

17:51 ADHD as a Superpower: Hyperfocus and Foresight

23:36 Accurately Identify a Business Problem

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

36:10 Articulating Vision and Gaining Buy-In

41:14 Lessons Learned: Advice for Aspiring Innovators

#565: Becoming the AI Driven Leader, with Geoff Woods (Remastered)

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 19 Jun 2025 11:00:48 +0000

This special remastered episode of the Lawyerist Podcast features Stephanie’s conversation with Geoff Woods, author of The AI-Driven Leader. We’re re-releasing it due to positive feedback on the depth of this discussion, ensuring you’ll gain new insights and “aha!” moments with every listen.

In this episode, we explore AI’s transformative power, viewing it not as a threat, but as a liberator that enhances our work. We dive into the five core human skills to emphasize in an AI-driven world: strategic thinking, problem-solving, communication, collaboration, and creation. We demonstrate how to leverage AI strategically, from evaluating business plans to acting as a growth-minded board member, and you’ll hear how we’re integrating AI into our own leadership meetings.

Geoff shares real-world examples of using AI as a “thought partner” to stress-test major strategic decisions, even creating an “AI board of advisors.” He also provides practical applications for lawyers, such as using AI to review NDAs, stress-test legal arguments, and role-play closing arguments with AI as your jury. To guide your own AI journey, Geoff outlines his “CRIT” framework (Context, Role, Interview, Task) for effective prompting and highlights the importance of understanding AI model settings for data privacy and confidentiality.

Listen to our other episodes on the AI revolution:

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

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

#550: Beyond Content: How AI is Changing Law Firm Marketing, with Gyi Tsakalaki and Conrad Saam: 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.

The AI-Driven Leader

Chapters/Timestamps:

0:00 – Episode Introduction and Why This Remastered Version is Special

1:22 – AI as the Next Big Shift for Lawyers

6:28 – Geoff Woods: Redefining Leadership in the AI Era

9:11 – The Five Core Human Skills Enhanced by AI

10:36 – Strategic AI: Beyond Basic Tasks

14:24 – AI as Your Strategic Thought Partner

19:47 – Navigating AI: Threat vs. Opportunity for Lawyers

20:56 – Practical AI Applications: NDA Review and Valuation

28:51 – Building Your AI Habit: The “CRIT” Framework

32:19 – AI Security and Data Privacy for Legal Professionals

34:40 – The Risk of Inaction and Building the Future Firm

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

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 12 Jun 2025 11:00:01 +0000

In this insightful episode of the Lawyerist Podcast, we invite you to explore the profound interplay between personal resilience and professional advancement. Join business coach Sara Muender and host Zack Glaser as they guide us through the essential process of reframing failure and leveraging hardships for significant growth.

You’ll discover how encountering obstacles or experiencing a dip in professional momentum often reveals deeper, underlying emotional dynamics. We underscore the critical importance of emotional intelligence and the strategic prioritization of human experience over purely technical or strategic solutions. Sara shares how AI tools, while invaluable for streamlining operations like project management, also provide significant support in mitigating overwhelm and burnout, allowing you to shift focus from mere tasks to your overall well-being.

This conversation offers a compelling perspective on navigating your unique challenges, emphasizing that genuine resilience stems from directly engaging with difficulties, not from avoiding them. We’ll discuss why comparing your professional journey to others can be unproductive and how embracing even uncomfortable emotions can become a potent catalyst for your development. If you’re seeking to cultivate a more robust understanding of your professional hurdles and harness emotional intelligence for sustained success, this episode provides invaluable guidance.

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

Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com.

#516: Flexing Your Discipline Muscle to Stay Motivated, with Sara Muender

Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Lawyerist

#535: Lawyer Burnout: 5 Hidden Signs You’re About to Crash, with Natasha Evans

Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Lawyerist

#506: Managing Stress & Avoiding Burnout, with Emily Nagoski

Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Lawyerist

Chapters:

00:00 – Introduction & AI’s Role in Work

01:50 – AI for Project Scoping & Management

03:47 – AI, Client Feedback & Emotional Intelligence

04:40 – Overcoming Overwhelm with AI

07:10 – Finding “The Gift in the Struggle”

08:04 – Battling Burnout & Comparison Traps

13:53 – The Power of Slowing Down

16:11 – Embracing Failure & Building Resilience

22:29 – Failure as Data, Not Personal Worth

23:41 – Personal Tragedy & Finding Meaning

29:22 – The Relativity of Pain & Self-Improvement

34:35 – Facing Hard Truths & Growth

#563: Beyond the Traditional: Creating Future-Proof Legal Offerings, with Rachel Allums and Allison Harrison

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 05 Jun 2025 11:00:42 +0000

Step inside a real-world example of legal innovation as two Lawyerist Lab members, Rachel Allums and Allison Harrison, reveal how they partnered to create Safe Sendoff, a new company addressing common legal needs for young adults.

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

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

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

Listen to our other episodes:

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

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

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

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

Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com.

Chapters/Timestamps:

9:31 – Introducing Safe Sendoff: A New Venture

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

17:48 – Building a Second Business Differently

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

25:24 – Lessons Learned and Advice for Entrepreneurs

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

#562: Beyond ChatGPT: The AI Revolution Happening Inside Your Firm, with Charreau Bell

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 29 May 2025 11:00:44 +0000

AI is here to revolutionize your law firm, moving beyond simple prompts to actively handling your tasks. This Lawyerist Podcast episode is your essential guide. Zack Glaser sits down with Dr. Charreau Bell, a senior data scientist and assistant professor at Vanderbilt University, who’s helping law students and faculty use AI in truly meaningful ways.

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

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

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

Listen to our other episodes about Artificial Intelligence:

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

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

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

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

Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com

Chapters/Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction: Beyond Simple AI Prompts

03:20 – How Data Science Helps Lawyers

04:32 – Automating Document Review and Information Extraction

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

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

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

28:16 – The Power of Agentic AI Systems

34:24 – Interacting with Agentic AI and Security Considerations

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

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

#561: The Law Firm of the Future is Being Built in Law Schools Today, Get a Glimpse with Tracy Norton, Dennis Kennedy, and Nicole Morris

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 22 May 2025 11:00:54 +0000

Ready for a serious look at the future of your law firm? In this Lawyerist Podcast episode, Zack Glaser sits down with a panel of law school professors for a wake-up call about something that will fundamentally reshape your practice: the tech-savvy generation of law students entering the field. This isn’t a distant trend; it’s happening now, and it demands your attention.

We explore how these future lawyers are already operating differently. You’ll hear firsthand about their strong preference for the Google ecosystem – and why that directly impacts your firm’s current reliance on tools like Microsoft Word. This isn’t just about software; it’s about the shifting expectations and workflows these digital natives are bringing with them as they become your colleagues.

Here’s where it gets interesting for you: we explore how you can leverage this change to your firm’s advantage. The professors share insights on how these students are uniquely positioned to drive AI adoption within your practice. Think of them as an untapped resource, ready to experiment with and implement AI-powered services that can elevate your firm’s capabilities and even open doors to new service areas.

And let’s be clear, you can’t afford to ignore the rising importance of tech fluency, especially in AI. The professors don’t mince words: a lack of understanding in this area will directly impact your ability to serve clients effectively. In a world swimming in digital data, from car sensors to smart devices, your firm’s relevance depends on it.

This episode is your essential guide to:

Stay ahead of the curve in a rapidly evolving legal landscape

Unlocking the potential of the next generation of legal talent

Building a future-proof firm that thrives on innovation

Tune in!

Listen to our other episodes about Artificial Intelligence:

#556 Hidden Data: What Lawyers Need to Know About Digital Forensics, with Cole Popkin Apple Podcasts Spotify Lawyerist

#538: AI is Making Law Firms Obsolete, with Alistair Vigier Apple Podcasts Spotify Lawyerist

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

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

Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com.

#560: Stop Doing Everything Yourself! Unlock Your Law Firm’s True Potential with Leticia DeSuze

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 15 May 2025 11:00:53 +0000

Feeling like you’re the only one holding everything together in your law firm? You’re not alone. This episode dives into a crucial aspect of firm growth that often gets overlooked: leadership. Zack kicks things off with an inspiring reminder about the power of stepping outside your comfort zone – something just as vital for you as a legal professional looking to build a truly sustainable practice. Get ready to explore why developing strong leadership isn’t just for CEOs; it’s the key to breaking free from feeling constantly overwhelmed.

Then, Zack sits down with Lawyerist coach Leticia DeSuze, who brings a wealth of real-world experience guiding law firms just like yours. Leticia gets straight to the heart of the matter: how the very success you’ve achieved can sometimes highlight underlying leadership gaps, turning you into the ultimate bottleneck. You’ll hear practical insights on how to shift gears from simply practicing law to intentionally building a team that can take ownership and drive results, ultimately freeing up your time and energy for what truly matters.

Ready to take control and build a more efficient and less personally draining law firm? Tune in to discover actionable strategies for effective delegation, setting crystal-clear expectations for your team, and implementing KPIs that empower everyone to take responsibility. This episode offers a roadmap for moving beyond the daily grind and cultivating a thriving team practice where you empower them to carry the load.

Listen to our other episodes with Leticia DeSuze:

#491: Crafting Your Purpose-Driven Leadership Vision, with Leticia DeSuze Apple Podcast | Spotify | Lawyerist

#520: The Truth About Lawyer Self-Care: Prioritize or Suffer Apple Podcast | Spotify | Lawyerist

#464: Unpacking the Power of Self-Accountability in Coaching, with Leticia DeSuze 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/Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction: Embracing the “Positive Struggle”

04:05 – The Leadership Skills Gap: From Lawyer to Leader

07:10 – Breaking the Bottleneck: Delegation and Mindset Shifts

10:46 – Beyond Hiring: Developing Leaders at Every Level

21:40 – Client Service vs. Efficiency: Finding the Right Balance

28:58 – Redefining Leadership: Structure, Ownership, and Trust

31:07 – Recognizing Individual Motivators, Final Thoughts

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

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 13 May 2025 14:40:34 +0000

In this conversation, Karin Conroy, a legal marketing strategist, discusses the evolution of law firm websites and the importance of unique branding in legal marketing. She emphasizes the pitfalls of copying competitors and the need for firms to develop their own unique selling propositions. The discussion also touches on the significance of being first to market and avoiding shortcuts in marketing strategies. Karin provides insights into how firms can differentiate themselves and succeed in a competitive landscape.

Links from the episode:

www.conroycreativecounsel.com

https://conroycreativecounsel.com/blw/

#558: The Wealthy Lawyer: Practical Financial Strategies for Legal Professionals with Darren Wurz

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 08 May 2025 11:00:40 +0000

Unlock valuable insights for your legal practice and personal finances in this engaging episode. First, Zack explores the cutting edge of AI with Tanguy Chau from Paxton.ai, revealing how their innovative AI assistant is specifically built to streamline the often-daunting task of drafting legal documents. Discover the power of their multi-step modular process, designed to provide you with more coherent and relevant output, ultimately saving you time and enhancing your efficiency.

Then, get ready to transform your financial outlook as Stephanie Everett speaks with Darren Wurz about financial planning and wealth building tailored specifically for lawyers. We delve into essential mindset shifts, helping you define your financial goals and overcome the common hesitations around financial planning. Learn practical strategies to effectively manage your cash flow, build safety nets, and consciously avoid the trap of lifestyle creep that can hinder your long-term wealth accumulation.

We also explore smart investment diversification beyond traditional retirement accounts and uncover valuable tax planning strategies to ensure you’re making the most of your earnings. Learn the importance of building a reliable team of financial experts, providing you with peace of mind and allowing you to focus on what you do best – practicing law and growing your firm. Tune in to gain practical knowledge that can impact your practice and your financial well-being.

Listen to our other episode about your firm’s finances:

KPIs for Lawyers: Measuring Your Law Firm’s Financial Health with Bernadette Harris Apple Podcast | Spotify | Lawyerist

Overcoming Personal Financial Struggles as a Lawyer, with Rho Thomas Apple Podcast | Spotify | Lawyerist

Healthy Profits: Understanding the Story Your Numbers Tell, 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.

Links from the episode: 

Paxton.ai

#557: KPIs for Lawyers: Measuring Your Law Firm’s Financial Health with Bernadette Harris

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 01 May 2025 11:00:30 +0000

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.

#556: Hidden Data: What Lawyers Need to Know About Digital Forensics, with Cole Popkin

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 24 Apr 2025 11:00:12 +0000

Recorded live at the ABA Techshow, Zack Glaser interviews Cole Popkin, a digital forensics senior analyst at Proven Data, to shed light on the increasingly relevant field of digital forensics for legal professionals. Cole shares how understanding the basics of digital forensics can benefit lawyers in all practice areas, from litigation to transactional work and firm management.

Cole explains the types of information that can be recovered from digital devices, even after deletion, and addresses common misconceptions surrounding encryption. He also reveals the potential for unintentional data leaks and provides practical, actionable steps lawyers can take to enhance their digital security and protect client confidentiality.

You’ll also hear Cole explain the direct relevance of digital forensics to specific legal scenarios, such as how deleted text messages and metadata analysis can be crucial in personal injury and family law cases.

So, join us for this episode, recorded live at the ABA Techshow, and get a realistic and accessible overview of digital forensics that will empower you to be more informed and secure in your use of technology, all without needing to become a forensics expert.

Listen to our other episode about data security:

#512: Tech Things You Should Know but Are Too Afraid To Ask, with Zack Glaser Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Lawyerist

#481: Getting Clients into the Cloud, with Laura Kaminski from ShareFile(Sponsored) 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.

#555: How to Use AI and Universal Design to Empower Diverse Thinkers with Susan Tanner

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 17 Apr 2025 11:00:00 +0000

What if the key to better legal work isn’t just smarter tools but more inclusive ones? Susan Tanner, Associate Professor at the University of Louisville Brandeis School of Law, joins Zack Glaser to explore how AI and universal design can improve legal education and law firm operations. Susan shares how tools like generative AI can support neurodiverse thinkers, enhance client communication, and reduce anxiety for students and professionals alike. They also discuss the importance of inclusive design in legal tech and how law firms can better support their teams by embracing different ways of thinking to build a more accessible, future-ready practice. The conversation emphasizes the need for educators and legal professionals to adapt to the evolving landscape of AI, ensuring that they leverage its capabilities to better serve their clients and students.

Links from the episode: 

NetDocuments

NetDocuments Demo Request

Listen to our other episodes about diversifying learning strategies and the AI revolution:

#405: The Diverse Way People Think, with Temple Grandin: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Lawyerist
#551: Becoming the AI Driven Leader, with Geoff Woods: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Lawyerist
#550: Beyond Content: How AI is Changing Law Firm Marketing, with Gyi Tsakalaki and Conrad Saam: 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.

#554: Competence and Diligence in Light of Changing Laws and Regulations

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 10 Apr 2025 11:00:20 +0000

Attorney Craig Dobson, an expert on ethics and professional responsibility, joins Stephanie Everett to talk about the ethical and professional responsibility concerns lawyers face in a rapidly evolving legal landscape. They discuss how solo and small firm attorneys can stay compliant while leveraging new tools, the importance of confidentiality and competence, and the fundamental need to maintain diligence in your practice. Craig and Stephanie examine alternative fee structures beyond just hourly billing and provide guidance on ethical practices around lawyer pricing models. Craig also shares how he’s approaching billing in his own practice and why lawyers need to be proactive about understanding the risks.

Read Craig’s article: Overview | Full Article

Listen to our other episodes about ethics and alternative billing practices:

#350: Ethics in Your Business: It’s More than Regulations, with Susan Liautaud Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Legal Talk Network

#488: The Power of Value-Based Pricing, with Shaun Jardine Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Lawyerist

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

#547: Legal Tech You Need for Flat Fees, with Adriana Linares 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.

#553: AI Tools and Processes Every Lawyer Should Use with Catherine Sanders Reach

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 03 Apr 2025 11:00:09 +0000

Catherine Sanders Reach, Director of the Center for Practice Management at the North Carolina Bar Association, joins Zack Glaser to answer pressing questions about integrating AI into legal operations. Catherine explains how to identify breakdowns in workflows, choose purpose-built AI tools, and calculate the return on investment for tech solutions like Microsoft Copilot. She also shares practical advice on automating tasks like document templates, client intake, and email management while emphasizing the importance of documenting processes for efficiency. This episode is packed with actionable insights for lawyers looking to streamline their practice with AI.

Hear Catherine’s other appearance on Lawyerist Podcast:

#444: Streamlining Legal Operations for Success, with Catherine Sanders Reach: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube

Listen to our other episodes about artificial intelligence:

#551: Becoming the AI Driven Leader, with Geoff Woods: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Lawyerist
#550: Beyond Content: How AI is Changing Law Firm Marketing, with Gyi Tsakalakis and Conrad Saam: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Lawyerist
#546: Unlock Law Firm Growth: AI Marketing Secrets with Karin Conroy: 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.

#552: Should Your Law Firm Welcome Non-Lawyer Owners? Insights from UK Attorney Corinne Staves

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 27 Mar 2025 11:00:06 +0000

What if law firms didn’t have to be owned by lawyers? In the UK, non-lawyer ownership has been shaking up the legal industry for over a decade, bringing in private equity, corporate structures, and even stock market listings. But has it led to innovation or just new ethical dilemmas? Corinne Staves, a UK legal expert, joins Lawyerist Podcast to reveal the surprising ways this shift has (and hasn’t) transformed the profession.

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.

#551: Becoming the AI Driven Leader, with Geoff Woods

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 20 Mar 2025 11:00:21 +0000

In this episode, Geoff Woods discusses his book, ‘The AI Driven Leader,’ exploring how AI can serve as a thought partner for lawyers and business owners. He emphasizes the importance of adapting leadership skills to navigate technological disruptions, the strategic use of AI in business, and the mindset shift required to embrace these changes. The conversation also covers practical applications of AI in legal practice, the risks of inaction, and resources for further learning.

Links from the episode: 

Schedule a demo with Tabs3

The AI-Driven Leader

#550: Beyond Content: How AI is Changing Law Firm Marketing, with Gyi Tsakalakis and Conrad Saam

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 13 Mar 2025 11:00:52 +0000

Zack talks with the hosts of the Lunch Hour Legal Marketing Podcast, Gyi Tsakalakis, and Conrad Saam about how artificial intelligence is affecting consumer behavior and how your law firm should adjust to the changing market. Additionally, they discuss how to leverage AI to your advantage against your own marketing data to be more deliberate with your legal marketing spend.

Additionally, Zack and Jennifer discuss the Lawyerist’s annual Best Law Firm Website contest, where they dig into what makes a website “work.”

Links from the episode: 

Subscribe to Lunch Hour Legal Marketing

https://www.youtube.com/@LHLM

https://www.gorillaz.com/

#549: A Journey into Video Marketing, with Temi Siyanbade

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 06 Mar 2025 12:00:03 +0000

In this conversation, Temi Siyanbade, founder of TOS Legal, discusses the importance of video marketing for legal professionals. She shares her journey into using video to connect with clients and build her brand, emphasizing the need to overcome the fear of being on camera. Temi explains how video can enhance legal marketing by building rapport with potential clients and providing valuable information. She also offers practical advice on starting with basic equipment and measuring success in video marketing, encouraging lawyers to embrace this medium to better serve their clients.

Additionally, Zack talks with the folks at NetDocuments about the importance of organizing your digital files and recent advancements in document search.

Links from the episode: 

Request a demo from NetDocuments

Show, Don’t Tell by Temi Siyanbade

#548: Essential Strategies to Know Before You Go Solo, with Stephanie Everett

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 27 Feb 2025 12:00:16 +0000

Dreaming of launching your own law firm or leveling up your current practice? In this episode, Stephanie Everett shares the top five game-changing strategies you need to know to build a thriving law firm. From crafting a crystal-clear vision to mastering your tech stack and establishing solid legal and financial foundations, they’ve got you covered.

Links from the episode: 

Amplify your legal practice with Paxton AI

Paxton AI

We just announced a $22M Series A funding round

Listeners can sign up for our webinar – accelerating your practice with AI on 2/19 here.

#547: Legal Tech You Need for Flat Fees, with Adriana Linares

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 20 Feb 2025 12:00:33 +0000

Stephanie talks with New Solo podcast host, Adriana Linares, about the technology necessary to run a law practice and move away from the billable hour. Adriana emphasizes the importance of automation and organized client files and communication. Additionally, Zack talks with Lindsay Bushong, from MyCase, about what software law firms can use to manage their accounting in both a flat-fee and hourly billing environment.

Links from the episode: 

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

https://mycase.com/lawyerist

#546: Unlock Law Firm Growth: AI marketing Secrets with Karin Conroy

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 18 Feb 2025 21:00:58 +0000

In this conversation, Karin Conroy and Zack Glaser discuss the integration of AI in marketing, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a human touch while leveraging technology. They explore the significance of a unique brand voice, particularly the value of female perspectives in marketing. The discussion also covers Google’s EAT principles, the need for content optimization for AI search, and the importance of regularly reviewing and refining marketing strategies. Finally, they stress the necessity of defining an ideal client to enhance marketing effectiveness.

Links from the episode: 

Check out Conroy Creative Counsel

#545: Overcoming Personal Financial Struggles as a Lawyer, with Rho Thomas

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 13 Feb 2025 12:00:31 +0000

In this conversation, Rho Thomas, a money coach for lawyers, discusses the financial struggles faced by legal professionals, particularly focusing on student loans, lifestyle expectations, and the impact of debt. Rho emphasizes the importance of intentional spending, budgeting, and making significant financial decisions, such as housing choices. The discussion also covers the balance between investing and paying off debt, strategies for increasing income, and the importance of communication and shared vision in financial planning. Rho shares her personal journey of overcoming debt and offers insights into building net worth through effective financial management.

Links from the episode: 

The guide to mistakes that keep lawyers from making money

Lawyerist Alternative Fee Structures Webinar (March 12)

#544: How to Build a Respectful Legal Workplace, with Erika Harold

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 06 Feb 2025 12:00:56 +0000

In this conversation, Zack Glaser and Erica Harold discuss the prevalence of bullying in the legal profession, highlighting a study conducted by the Illinois Supreme Court Commission on Professionalism. They explore the findings of the study, which revealed that one in four Illinois lawyers experienced bullying and discuss the need for concrete recommendations to address this issue within law firms. The conversation emphasizes the importance of creating a culture of respect and civility in the legal field, as well as actionable steps that can be taken by individuals and organizations to combat bullying.

Links from the episode: 

https://www.2civility.org/

#543: What Lawyers Need to Know About the Ethics of Using AI, with Hilary Gerzhoy

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 30 Jan 2025 12:00:47 +0000

In this conversation, Hillary Gerzhoy discusses the intersection of legal ethics and artificial intelligence (AI) in the legal profession. She highlights the risks associated with incorporating AI into legal practices, emphasizing the importance of confidentiality and the distinction between open and closed AI systems. The conversation also delves into the supervisory obligations lawyers have when using AI, the challenges of traditional billing models in light of AI efficiencies, and the potential future of AI in making legal services more accessible and affordable.

#542: Getting the Most out of Legal Conferences, with Ruby Powers

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 23 Jan 2025 12:00:52 +0000

In this conversation, Ruby Powers and Stephanie discuss the significance of attending legal conferences, particularly the ABA TECHSHOW. They explore the differences between local and national events, the benefits of networking, and how to maximize the conference experience. Ruby shares her personal experiences and insights on how these events can be life-changing for legal professionals, emphasizing the importance of staying updated with technology and trends in the legal field. They also provide practical tips for attendees and highlight the upcoming ABA Tech Show in Chicago.

Links from the episode: 

https://techshow.com

#541: Why the Best Teams Have Keystone Conversations, with Michael Bungay Stanier

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 16 Jan 2025 12:00:30 +0000

In this episode, Stephanie talks with Michael Bungay Stanier, the author of The Coaching Habit, about his new book How to Work with (Almost) Anyone. They discuss how successful law firm leaders know how to effectively coach teammates and how to foster what Stanier calls the ‘Best Possible Relationships’ (BPRs). This discussion emphasizes the importance of curiosity over advice-giving, and the need for psychological safety in both client and employee relationships. The discussion is rich with practical insights and actionable strategies for improving workplace dynamics and fostering better communication, including how to have a Keystone Conversation and build better self-awareness in leadership.

Links from the episode: 

Check out Michael’s books

MBS Works

Women & AI Summit

#540: Microsoft Word Rules Every Lawyer Needs to Know, with Barron Henley

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 09 Jan 2025 12:00:11 +0000

In this conversation, Barron Henley shares his expertise on document automation and formatting in Microsoft Word, focusing on hidden features, effective techniques, and the importance of styles. He discusses common pitfalls lawyers face and provides practical solutions to streamline document creation, including the use of templates, styles, numbering, and cross-referencing. The conversation emphasizes the need for proper setup to avoid formatting issues and enhance productivity, particularly in legal contexts.

Links from the episode: 

Check out Affinity Consulting

#539: This VOICE HACK Will Transform Your Legal Career!, with Rena Cook

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 02 Jan 2025 12:00:01 +0000

Discover how voice training can make you a more effective and persuasive attorney.

Rena Cook, voice and speech trainer, shares invaluable tips on using breath, tone, and inflection to command attention in the courtroom and beyond.

Learn how to speak with confidence, connect with your audience, and elevate your presence in any legal setting.

From proper breathing techniques to authentic pitch variety, this episode reveals the power of vocal mastery in law.

Don’t miss out on this game-changing advice that could take your legal career to new heights!

Links from the episode: 

Find your authentic voice with Rena Cook at My Vocal Authority

#538: AI is Making Law Firms Obsolete, with Alistair Vigier

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 26 Dec 2024 12:00:58 +0000

Discover how AI is revolutionizing law firms and why traditional legal practices may become obsolete.

Join Alistair Vigier, CEO of Caseway, as he shares his remarkable journey from military service to disrupting the legal tech industry with groundbreaking AI solutions.

Learn how artificial intelligence is transforming legal research, document creation, and client services – all while making law more accessible and efficient.

Get an insider’s look at the challenges and opportunities facing legal tech startups, including battles with established players and the innovative solutions that are reshaping how lawyers work.

Alistair reveals how Caseway’s AI technology is making premium legal tools affordable for firms of all sizes, while maintaining transparency and ethical standards.

From real-time contract analysis to automated court document preparation, see how AI is not just changing the game – it’s creating a new playing field for legal services.

Whether you’re a legal professional looking to stay competitive or simply curious about the future of law, this conversation offers valuable insights into the intersection of artificial intelligence and legal practice.

Links from the episode: 

Check out iManage-Making Knowledge Work

Caseway: Your AI_driven legal research assistant

#537: Stressed Lawyer? This Technique Is Life Changing!, with Supriya Venkatesan

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 19 Dec 2024 12:00:58 +0000

Stressed out at work? In this episode, Lawyerist Lab mindset coach Supriya Venkatesan will help you understand how your body holds onto stress—and simple, science-backed ways to shake it off.

From quick anxiety-relief techniques you can use in the courtroom to posture tweaks and tapping methods, these tools are helping lawyers nationwide stay calm and confident. Learn how movement and somatic regulation can transform the way you handle pressure, whether it’s tough opposing counsel or pre-trial nerves.

Links from the episode: 

Join Lawyerist Lab Today!

#536: UNVEILED: Law Firm Marketing Secrets!, with RizeUp Media

Ally Kvidt — Tue, 17 Dec 2024 12:00:24 +0000

Travis Hoechlin, CEO of RizeUp Media, shares game-changing tips from 15+ years of legal marketing experience to help your practice thrive.

Learn how simple changes—like better phone protocols—can boost your conversion rates, while smart moves like optimizing Local Service Ads (LSAs) and choosing the right marketing plan set you up for success.

Links from the episode: 

Connect with Travis on LinkedIn

RizeUp Media

#535: Lawyer Burnout: 5 Hidden Signs You’re About to Crash, with Natasha Evans

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 12 Dec 2024 16:30:48 +0000

Lawyer burnout is real, and it’s time to talk about it!

In this episode of the Lawyerist Podcast, Zack chats with professional development coach Natasha Evans to uncover the 5 hidden signs you’re nearing burnout. They discuss the prevalence of high-functioning depression among lawyers, the impact of holiday stress, and why even the most successful attorneys aren’t immune.

Natasha shares practical strategies to break free from the burnout cycle, reignite your passion for law, and improve your mental wellness. Discover simple self-care tips, mindset shifts, and the surprising link between your well-being and your firm’s success.

Links from the episode: 

Check out TimeSolv

#534: Core Values: The Secret Weapon Your Law Firm Needs, with Chad Fox

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 05 Dec 2024 20:30:33 +0000

Discover how core values can transform your law firm from a business into a thriving, purpose-driven practice. Chad Fox, business coach at Lawyerist, shares expert insights on why core values matter and how they impact everything from hiring decisions to daily operations. Learn practical strategies for developing meaningful core values that go beyond basic principles like “integrity” and “honesty.” Find out how to use these values to make better decisions, build a stronger team culture, and create a framework for sustainable growth.

Links from the episode: 

Check out Posh Virtual Receptionists

Register for the Lawyerist KPI Webinar

#533: The Alcohol Experiment, with Annie Grace, Revisited

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 28 Nov 2024 12:00:33 +0000

It’s become a holiday tradition to re-air this important and enlightening episode of The Lawyerist Podcast.

Listen in as Sam Glover and Annie Grace dive into sobriety and mindful drinking. Annie shares her insights and strategies learned in her book, “The Alcohol Experiment.”

Discover the potential harms of the legal profession’s drinking culture and learn how to navigate social events without alcohol. This is a must-listen for any lawyer rethinking their relationship with alcohol.

#532: 5 Hidden Values That Will Transform Your Law Practice, with John Blakey

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 21 Nov 2024 15:20:23 +0000

Stephanie welcomes leadership expert Dr. John Blakey to discuss transforming legal leadership through his “Up, In, Out” framework. Drawing from his book “Force for Good,” Dr. Blakey challenges lawyers to shift from a profit-driven to a purpose-driven approach, offering actionable strategies for aligning personal values with professional goals, maintaining motivation, and creating meaningful impact in their legal practices.

Links from the episode: 

Force for Good: How to Thrive as a Purpose-Driven Leader

#531: How To Turn Your Solo Law Practice into A Thriving Firm, with Gregory Rada

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 14 Nov 2024 12:00:22 +0000

In this episode of the Lawyerist Podcast, join Stephanie as she dives into an inspiring conversation with Gregory Rada, a veterans disability attorney and Labster who transformed his solo practice into a thriving law firm. Greg shares how he leveraged technology, built a powerful online presence, and streamlined operations to reclaim 28 hours per week.

Links from the episode: 

Check out CosmoLex

#530: How to Design Meetings that Drive Results, with Matthew Homann

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 07 Nov 2024 15:15:54 +0000

Zack gets real about meetings with Matt Homann. They take on meeting fatigue, the power of asynchronous communication, and the real cost of that all-team morning standup. Listen in to hear what makes a meeting a success and what small changes you can make right now to make your office more effective.

Links from the episode: 

Sign up for the Lawyerist KPI Webinar December 11th

Check out Tabs3

Meeting design canvas (we need to ask for this from Matt, but he mentions it in the episode.) He sent a PDF

Connect with Matt

#529: The Hidden Power of Technology for Midsize Firms, with Ari Kaplan

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 31 Oct 2024 15:30:51 +0000

Stephanie speaks with Ari Kaplan about his recent report exploring how midsize law firms can adapt and innovate to succeed in today’s legal landscape. The conversation covers how technology can provide firms with greater agility, strategies for managing change fatigue, the importance of effective leadership, and evolving decision-making processes in the legal industry.

Links from the episode: 

The Changemakers Report

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!

#528: Building a Law Firm from Scratch, with Allyson Kitchel

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 24 Oct 2024 11:00:08 +0000

Stephanie sits down with Lawyerist Labster and law firm owner Allyson Kitchel as she shares the challenges and triumphs of establishing her practice in a competitive market.

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

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

Links from the episode:

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

#527: Casting Your Vision and Leading Your Firm, with Kevin DeShazo

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 17 Oct 2024 11:00:13 +0000

Zack talks with executive coach, Kevin Deshazo, about leadership on a team, in your firm, and in your life. They discuss the power of morning routines, personal statements, and how our views of who we are can affect our performance. They also dive into firm leadership and how casting a vision for your team can be scary but is necessary to get everyone rowing in the same direction.

Zack also talks with Sam Youngblood of Omnizant Marketing about how lawyers should approach content writing on their website and in social media.

Links from the episode: 

www.omnizant.com

www.deshazo.me

ABA Task Force for Democracy

#526: LinkedIn Mastery: Grow Your Law Firm NOW!

Ally Kvidt — Fri, 11 Oct 2024 11:00:56 +0000

Tune into this episode of Lawyerist Podcast, dive into LinkedIn Mastery: Grow Your Law Firm NOW!

Joining Stephanie is Matthew Hunt. Matthew shares insights on creating high-impact snackable content for LinkedIn, emphasizing its role in business growth, lead generation, and fostering connections within your community.

Learn how to use LinkedIn to increase your visibility, attract referrals, and grow your firm.

#525: Judicial Clerkship Truths Revealed, with Aliza Shatzman

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 03 Oct 2024 16:00:03 +0000

Uncover the shocking truth about judicial clerkships in this eye-opening episode of the Lawyerist Podcast.

Today, Stephanie sits down with Aliza Shatzman, president and founder of the Legal Accountability Project, to discuss the crucial need for transparency and accountability within the judiciary.

Aliza shares her personal journey through a challenging clerkship experience, highlighting the lack of Title VII protections for law clerks and the systemic issues plaguing judicial clerkships.

Discover how the Legal Accountability Project’s centralized clerkship database empowers clerks and enhances judicial transparency.

Links from the episode: 

Visit LAP’s Centralized Clerkships Database to submit a post-clerkship survey or register for Database access.

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!

#524: THE Key Step in Acquiring a Law Practice, with Jennifer Zahradnik

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 26 Sep 2024 18:15:50 +0000

In this episode of Lawyerist podcast, Stephanie talks with Labster Jennifer Zahradnik, about the essential insights for avoiding costly mistakes when taking over a law firm.

Jennifer shares her journey of inheriting a deceased attorney’s practice, emphasizing the importance of institutional knowledge, organized client files, and the role of law practice management software.

Listen to learn how she navigated the challenges of transitioning clients to new technology and the significance of due diligence in acquiring a firm.

Links from the episode: 

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!

#523: Financial Red Flags: Are You Hiring Too Soon?, with Bernadette Harris

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 19 Sep 2024 11:00:45 +0000

Stephanie and Lawyerist Lab finance coach Bernadette Harris discuss the financial red flags to watch for when considering hiring for your law firm.

Listen to discover the signs that indicate your firm is ready to expand and the importance of strategic planning. You’ll also learn about the hidden costs beyond salary, like taxes, benefits, and overhead, and why having savings or a line of credit is essential.

Links from the episode: 

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!

#522: The EOS Secret to Mastering Law Firm Challenges, with Mike Paton

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 12 Sep 2024 11:00:55 +0000

In this episode of Lawyerist Podcast, Stephanie dives into “The EOS Secret to Mastering Law Firm Challenges,” featuring insights from Mike Paton, a seasoned EOS implementer. Discover how the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) can revolutionize your law firm by introducing structure and accountability while maintaining your entrepreneurial spirit.

Links from the episode: 

Check out CosmoLex: The best legal software for modern law firms

EOS Worldwide

Traction by Gino Wickman

#521: Avoid These Legal Pitfalls: Essential Lawyer Protections, with Jonathan Hawkins

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 05 Sep 2024 11:00:08 +0000

In this episode of the Lawyerist Podcast, Stephanie Everett and Law Firm GC founder Jonathan Hawkins dive into essential lawyer protections that every law firm needs to avoid common legal pitfalls. Jonathan shares expert advice to safeguard your practice from client, staff, and third-party risks. Discover how to draft solid retainer agreements, ensure adequate insurance coverage, and implement robust conflict processes and cybersecurity measures. These strategies are crucial for any law firm aiming to thrive. Plus, learn about the importance of written policies and wellness support for attorneys.

Links from the episode: 

Golden Rules Retainer Agreements

Subscribe to our Youtube channel

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!

#520: The Truth About Lawyer Self-Care: Prioritize or Suffer

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 29 Aug 2024 14:50:06 +0000

In this episode of Lawyerist Podcast, explore the critical truth about lawyer self-care with Zack and Leticia DeSuze. Discover how neglecting holistic self-care can lead to suffering, as they redefine success by prioritizing physical, mental, emotional, social, and financial well-being.

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

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

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

Take the Small Firm Scorecard to evaluate your current practices.

Links from the episode: 

Subscribe to the Lawyerist Youtube Channel

#519: How to Build a Brand Beyond the Courtroom, with Jordan Marsh

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 22 Aug 2024 11:00:06 +0000

In this episode, Lawyerist Lab Coach Sara Muender chats with Jordan Marsh, a civil rights and personal injury attorney and the author of Try Your Own Case. Jordan shares how he’s expanding his 100% contingency-based law firm by developing the Try Your Own Case brand into a new revenue stream.

Learn about Jordan’s innovative plans for an online course and get tips on turning your legal skills into profit. This must-listen episode is perfect for law firm owners looking to diversify their income and boost their practice.

Links from the episode: 

Get a free Marketing Plan Template from Spotlight Branding!

Check out Jordan’s Book: Try Your Own Case

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!

#518: Why Every Lawyer Needs to Master Storytelling—And How to Do It, with Kate Tellers

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 15 Aug 2024 11:00:29 +0000

Stories are powerful—not just in the courtroom, but in business, with your team, and your life. And, yet, telling a great story is hard!

Stephanie chats with Kate Tellers, senior director and a host of the Peabody Award winning Moth Radio Hour and co-author of How To Tell a Story, about bringing our stories to life.

Links from the episode: 

The Moth

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!

#517: Passing the Torch: Mastering the Art of Succession, with Carol Bertsch & Brennen Boze

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 08 Aug 2024 11:00:37 +0000

Join Sara as she chats with law firm owner Carol Bertsch and new partner Brennen Boze about their leadership transition journey. They share the ups and downs of passing the torch, the emotional challenges, and the balance between honoring a legacy and embracing innovation.

Whether you’re a seasoned firm owner or an emerging leader, their story offers invaluable lessons on navigating ownership transition and ensuring your practice’s continued success.

Additionally, Zack talks with Natalia, from POSH about the importance of integrations and seamless communication with your virtual reception team.

Links from the episode: 

Mention Lawyerist at Posh to get a free 2 week trial!

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!

#516: Flexing Your Discipline Muscle to Stay Motivated, with Sara Muender

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 01 Aug 2024 11:00:22 +0000

Join Zack as he chats with Lawyerist Lab Coach and podcast co-host Sara Muender about starting and running a thriving law firm. They explore how defining personal and firm values can shape a law firm’s vision. Sara highlights the importance of separating personal identity from the business to make decisions that benefit the firm, and shares tips on staying motivated when you’re feeling overwhelmed.

They also discuss balancing the roles of firm owner and working attorney. Tune in for motivation, guidance, and expert advice from a seasoned attorney business coach.

This episode is sponsored by Timesolv. Prior to the interview, Zack and practice management guru, Joyce Brafford, talk artificial intelligence and how firms should prepare their offices to use all the new fancy tools. Hint: it involves solidifying your processes.

Links from the episode: 

Request your free trial from TimeSolv!

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!

#515: Simple Marketing Hacks Lawyers Swear By, with Gyi Tsakalakis

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 25 Jul 2024 11:00:13 +0000

A law firm’s marketing efforts are never-ending! That, coupled with the fact that algorithms and tools seem to also always be changing can leave lawyers with a marketing headache. In this episode, Stephanie chats with the host of the popular podcast, Lunch Hour Legal Marketing, Gyi Tsakalakis about the latest things to know in law firm marketing.

Links from the episode: 

Check out NetDocuments

Listen to the Lunch Hour Legal Marketing Podcast

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!

#514: The Hidden Value of Doing Less, with Leidy Klotz

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 18 Jul 2024 11:00:32 +0000

In today’s world, our first instinct is to add. Do more. Consume more information. But, should we be subtracting instead? Doing less. Simplifying.

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

Links from the episode: 

Check out CosmoLex!

Subtract by Leidy Klotz

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

#513: The Lawyer Who Became a Coder, with Sukhi Alberga

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 11 Jul 2024 11:00:22 +0000

Zack talks with Canadian Lawyer, entrepreneur, and Labster Sukhi Alberga about her journey innovating in the legal services space. They discuss the path she took to building her legal tech product and her experience in the Law Society of Ontario’s regulatory sandbox.

Links from the episode: 

Check out PIMCon and use “PIM Lawyerist” for $200 off!

Check out Counsel from Sukhi

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!

#512: Tech Things You Should Know but Are Too Afraid to Ask, with Zack Glaser

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 04 Jul 2024 11:00:10 +0000

Stephanie talks with Zack about tech things you should know but might be too afraid to ask.

They get into the why behind password managers, discuss the necessity of two-factor authentication, and bring some clarity to different types of encryption. They also discuss how artificial intelligence is making security fundamentals even more important.

If you’re confused about passwords and access control, or just want to make sure you’re handling them well, you’ll want to check this episode out.

Links from the episode: 

Let’s put the image from this Teams thread: Alex Palzewicz: How Long It Would Take A Hacker To Brute Force Your Password In 20…

We may need to check copyright of the image above, or at least cite and link to where it came from.

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!

#511: The Perks, Pitfalls, and Economics of Adjunct Teaching with Markus Funk

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 27 Jun 2024 11:00:32 +0000

We consider it a great honor to serve as an adjunct professor at a law school, but is the juice worth the squeeze?

In this episode, Stephanie talks with Markus Funk about the investments lawyers make and the benefits they receive when they agree to teach. They also explore ways for adjuncts to make the most of their experience for themselves and their students.

Links from the episode: 

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!

#510: Why It’s Time to Embrace Laziness, with Dr. Devon Price

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 20 Jun 2024 11:00:11 +0000

Do you ever beat yourself up over all the things you think you should be doing? Do you work even when you’re sick or when your body tells you it’s time for a break? In this episode, Stephanie talks with Dr. Devon Price about our twisted view of laziness and why it might be time to embrace a little more laziness in our lives.

Links from the episode: 

NetDocuments: The Cloud Platform Where Legal Professionals Do Their Best Work

Laziness Does Not Exist by Dr. Devon Price

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!

#509: Pain in the SaaS: How to Select the Right Tech for Your Firm, with Britt Lorish

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 13 Jun 2024 11:00:45 +0000

Zack talks with legal tech expert Britt Lorish about the process of selecting and managing technology in large and small law firms. Listen in as they talk about typical pain points, common setups, and how process documentation is the first step you know you need to take but don’t want to.

Additionally, Zack talks about the hidden side of marketing with Spotlight Branding’s Marc Cerniglia. They discuss how lead nurturing often gets overlooked in a typical marketing plan and how you can extrapolate your nurturing ROI from things like increased referrals.

Links from the episode: 

Check out Spotlight’s Marketing Plan Template

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!

#508: From Retreat to Rebrand: How a Retreat Led to a Transformation, with Patricia Mancabelli

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 06 Jun 2024 14:15:45 +0000

Sara joins Labster Patricia Mancabelli in a conversation about how an in-person, Lawyerist-facilitated retreat sparked a firm rebranding and enabled her team to hone in on their ideal clients.

Patricia discusses the challenges and benefits of her rebrand and reveals how their new subscription model for female business owners has been a game-changer.

Discover how this approach has allowed the firm to provide more purposeful and impactful support, benefiting both the firm and the women entrepreneurs they serve with accessible, top-notch legal services.

Links from the episode: 

Mention Lawyerist when your visit Posh and get a free 2 week trial!

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!

#507: Navigating Motherhood and Law, with Sarah Soucie Eyberg

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 30 May 2024 11:00:08 +0000

Lawyers are pretty good at keeping our guards up—especially when it comes to the hard, messy, personal stuff. So, what happens when we let those guards down and share those stories with one another?

This week, Stephanie tackles that issue and more with Sarah Soucie Eyberg, co-author of the new book Law Moms: Juggling Motherhood, Ambition and Personal Fulfillment.

Links from the episode: 

Check out Sarah’s Book-Law Moms

Lawyerist listeners can get special pricing with Pilot!

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!

#506: Managing Stress & Avoiding Burnout, with Emily Nagoski (Replay)

Ally Kvidt — Thu, 23 May 2024 11:00:50 +0000

In this episode, author and speaker Emily Nagoski, Ph.D., discusses how to handle stress and break the burnout cycle in your personal and professional life.

Links from the episode: 

Check out Rocket Matter: modern legal software for busy lawyers

Burnout by Emily Nagoski

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!