Powerful Leaders. No Apologies.

In this special and final episode of the Powerful Leaders No Apologies podcast, Debbie Foster and season 1 co-host Beth Thompson reflect on the inspiring journey of the 44-episode series, celebrating trailblazing women in leadership and legal tech. Sharing memorable moments, powerful lessons on leadership, and the importance of networking, while reminiscing about the show's origins and evolution. As Season 2 wraps-there are exciting things to come in 2025!   Check out the show notes for this episode on our website.   Connect with us: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn

In this episode Debbie Foster reconnects with Matt Homann for a follow-up conversation focused on reimagining the practice of law. They discuss the challenges law firms face in innovating outdated business models, particularly around billing, compensation, and talent retention. Matt shares insights from his past work on legal innovation, emphasizing the need for law firms to move away from the billable hour model and embrace strategies that enhance client value and internal efficiency.   Check out the show notes for this episode on our website.   Connect with us: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn

Debbie has a dynamic conversation with Danette Shaifer, Founder and Chief Empowerment Officer of Florishion Consulting, as she shares her innovative strategies for building effective teams and fostering a culture of empowerment in the workplace. Through a blend of practical tools and deep insights, Danette reveals how organizations can achieve greater cohesion, drive, and success.   Check out the show notes for this episode on our website.   Connect with us: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn

In this episode, Debbie dives into the inspiring story of Linda Calvin, a trailblazer who transitioned from a successful career in law to become a pivotal figure in tech. As she spearheads Indiana's first Women in Tech Week, Linda shares her mission to empower women, bridge gender gaps in STEM, and reveal the untold challenges and triumphs that women face in the tech industry.   Check out the show notes for this episode on our website.   Connect with us: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn

In this episode, Matt Homann, founder of Filament, reveals his innovative approaches to making meetings more effective and engaging to Debbie. From the importance of intentional design to the power of facilitation, Matt shares practical tips and insights that can transform any meeting into a productive and enjoyable experience. Whether you're a seasoned facilitator or new to leading meetings, you'll find valuable strategies to enhance your gatherings and achieve better outcomes.   Check out the show notes for this episode on our website.   Connect with us: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn

Debbie talks with Elise Holtzman as she shares her insights on what it takes to be an outstanding leader. Elise emphasizes the importance of resilience, adaptability, and strategic thinking, providing listeners with practical advice on how to enhance their leadership skills and navigate complex professional environments.   Check out the show notes for this episode on our website.   Connect with us: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn

In this episode, Debbie Foster celebrates the legacy of Susan L. French by highlighting the impact of the Emerging Leader Fellowship Program. Fellows Erica Brundage and Joanna Hurt share their experiences, insights, and the personal and professional growth they've achieved through the program, underscoring the importance of leadership, community, and mentorship within the ALA.    Check out the show notes for this episode on our website.   Connect with us: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn

Debbie dives into the world of legal marketing with EJ Stern and Katherine Wilson, two trailblazers who have revolutionized how law firms grow and succeed. Discover their journey from Big Law to building a thriving business, and learn their secrets to transforming your law firm's marketing strategy overnight. Whether you're overwhelmed by marketing challenges or seeking fresh insights, this episode is packed with expert tips and unconventional strategies you won't want to miss.   Check out the show notes for this episode on our website.   Connect with us: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn

Debbie Foster interviews Felice Duffy, founder of Duffy Law LLC, about her journey from fighting for gender equity in sports to leading her own law firm specializing in Title IX cases. Felice shares her inspiring story of breaking barriers, advocating for women's rights, and navigating her career with resilience and integrity.   Check out the show notes for this episode on our website.   Connect with us: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn

Debbie Foster engages with Christy Burke, a trailblazer in the legal tech industry. From early experiences in her family's business to founding her own successful PR and marketing agency, Christy shares invaluable insights and anecdotes, offering a glimpse into the evolving landscape of legal tech entrepreneurship.   Check out the show notes for this episode on our website.   Connect with us: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn

Debbie talks with Kim Wolfe as she shares her remarkable journey from humble beginnings to becoming a powerhouse leader in the legal tech industry. With candid insights, she reveals how she navigated corporate challenges, overcame personal adversities, and unlocked the secrets to transformative leadership. From her experiences surviving 9/11 to her unconventional path to success, Wolfe's story serves as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring leaders everywhere.   Check out the show notes for this episode on our website.   Connect with us: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn

Welcome to the Powerful Leaders, No Apologies podcast. In this quick introduction to season two of the show, Debbie Foster lets you know what's changed since wrapping up season one and what you can expect from the show this season.

In this first episode of Season 2, Debbie brings back the first guest from Season 1, Amanda Koplos.  Amanda shares the transformative power of vulnerability in building trust and fostering authentic connections within teams. Through her experiences, Amanda emphasizes the importance of embracing self-doubt and leveraging it as a catalyst for personal and professional growth in the realm of legal leadership.   Check out the show notes for this episode on our website.   Connect with us: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn

Beth and Debbie reflect on their podcast journey and mark the end of season one with this special episode featuring guest Ari Kaplan.  Together, they explore the importance of building connections, fostering community, and embracing opportunities for growth in the legal industry and beyond. Tune in for an inspiring discussion on the art of networking and the transformative potential of collaboration.   Check out the show notes for this episode on our website.   Connect with us: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn

Beth and Debbie dive into a lively discussion with legal powerhouse Elizabeth Brotten, hailing from the icy terrains of North Dakota to leading the charge in Minneapolis. Unveiling her remarkable journey from clerkship to courtroom triumphs, Liz shares invaluable insights on resilience, career transitions, and the art of adaptation in the ever-evolving legal landscape.   Check out the show notes for this episode on our website.   Connect with us: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn

Beth and Debbie engage in a candid conversation with Sarah Evenson, Director of Law School Programs at Barnes and Thornburg. Sarah shares her unique journey from practicing law to legal management, highlighting the pivotal moments that shaped her career. The episode explores leadership insights, challenges faced, and valuable tips for recruiting and retaining talent, emphasizing the power of authenticity and compassion in professional growth.    Check out the show notes for this episode on our website.   Connect with us: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn

Beth and Debbie welcome Mary VandenAck, a seasoned law firm leader and chair of the Law Practice Division of the American Bar Association. Mary shares her unique journey from training thoroughbred racehorses to becoming a successful attorney, emphasizing resilience, overcoming challenges, and the importance of women supporting each other, offering insights into leadership, inspiration, and the power of a strong network.   Check out the show notes for this episode on our website.   Connect with us: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn

Debbie talks with legal tech trailblazer Stephanie Wilkins as she shares her insights on the transformative impact of artificial intelligence in the legal landscape. From navigating challenges to embracing innovation, they delve into the intricacies of legal technology, emphasizing the vital role of trust, collaboration, and overcoming imposter syndrome in fostering a dynamic and resilient legal profession. Join us as they unveil a compelling vision of the future, where innovation and human expertise converge to shape the next frontier of legal practice.   Check out the show notes for this episode on our website.   Connect with us: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn

Beth and Debbie talk with Alecha Stackle, Chief Marketing Officer at NetDocuments, as she shares her transformative journey and expertise in leading remote teams. From navigating the ever-evolving landscape of marketing to fostering global team cohesion, Stackle's strategies and reflections provide valuable insights for aspiring leaders and marketers alike, offering a nuanced perspective on the challenges and triumphs in the dynamic world of modern business.   Check out the show notes for this episode on our website.   Connect with us: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn

Beth and Debbie engage in a candid conversation with Triona Saunders, Chief Marketing Officer of ActionStep. Triona shares her inspiring journey from law firm marketing to becoming a global CMO, highlighting the challenges faced during maternity leaves and the invaluable lessons learned about adaptability and empathy in leadership. Tune in for insights into marketing across diverse geographies, the power of transferable skills, and the unique strengths working parents bring to the professional realm.   Check out the show notes for this episode on our website.   Connect with us: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn

Beth and Debbie talk with Christina and Karen from First American Equipment Finance. The dynamic duo shares their inspiring journey in sales and finance, highlighting the significance of mentorship, complementary strengths, and the power of execution and strategic thinking. They also discuss innovative financing strategies for law firms, emphasizing the value of trust and authentic collaboration in leadership.   Check out the show notes for this episode on our website.   Connect with us: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn

Beth and Debbie sit down with Bree McCrory, CMO at Big Hand, to explore her remarkable leadership journey. From navigating challenges in a rapidly growing team to leveraging Disc assessments for enhanced communication, Bree shares valuable insights on embracing diversity, leading with authenticity, and the power of staying true to one's values in the dynamic world of legal tech.   Check out the show notes for this episode on our website.   Connect with us: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn

Beth and Debbie talk with Andrea Markstrom as she shares her remarkable journey from aspiring modern dancer to Chief Information Officer in the legal industry. With unwavering resilience, she defied stereotypes and naysayers, emphasizing the importance of embracing the art of the possible. Andrea's leadership superpower lies in her boundless optimism, inspiring her team to dream big and reaffirming that anything is achievable. This conversation delves into overcoming obstacles, shattering gender biases, and the importance of supporting one another within a powerful tribe.   Check out the show notes for this episode on our website.   Connect with us: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn

Beth and Debbie talk with Michelle Cohen, a seasoned HR leader with a unique background in social work, as shares her inspiring journey from a social worker to a thriving HR director and her valuable insights on leadership. Discover how Michelle's superpower of compassion and creativity has not only empowered her but also helped her mentor and advocate for others, while challenging stereotypes and promoting positive change in her industry.   Check out the show notes for this episode on our website.   Connect with us: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn

Beth and Debbie talk with Rachel Clar, founder of Interconnected Us, as she shares her journey from the legal field to entrepreneurship and her mission to empower ambitious women lawyers. Through personal anecdotes and insights, Rachel discusses the importance of compassion, self-reflection, and breaking free from the compulsion to constantly be productive in order to truly prioritize personal growth and well-being.   Check out the show notes for this episode on our website.   Connect with us: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn

Beth and Debbie are joined by Joy Heath Rush, the CEO of ILTA (International Legal Technology Association). Joy shares her inspiring journey through the world of legal technology, reflecting on her experiences as a woman in a male-dominated industry and the valuable lessons she's learned along the way. Discover the secrets of her leadership superpower – leading with love and grace – and gain insights into the Women Who Lead initiative, a groundbreaking movement empowering women in technology.   Check out the show notes for this episode on our website.   Connect with us: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn

Debbie interviews Stephanie Everett, an authentic and accomplished leader in the legal field. They discuss Stephanie's inspiring journey from a lawyer to a leadership coach, her commitment to authenticity in leadership, and the transformative power of coaching, along with insights on women in leadership and the importance of diversity and inclusivity in building successful teams.    Check out the show notes for this episode on our website.   Connect with us: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn

Beth and Debbie chat with Anne Gorr, a legal tech pioneer and founder of her own successful consultancy. Anne shares her journey from a school teacher to a trailblazing figure in the legal technology industry. With anecdotes about her beginnings, challenges as a working mom, and navigating a male-dominated environment, Anne's story is a testament to resilience, resourcefulness, and the power of building alliances.   Check out the show notes for this episode on our website.   Connect with us: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn

Beth and Debbie talk with LJ Finney, founder of N18 LLC, about her passion for using golf as a medium for team building and connecting on a deeper level. They discuss challenges faced by women in negotiation, communication, and embracing leadership roles unapologetically. LJ's  insights empower women to be more confident, authentic, and assertive in various professional settings.   Check out the show notes for this episode on our website.   Connect with us: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn

Beth and Debbie talk with founder and CEO of Edge Marketing, Amy Juers, about her latest adventure in her career and the book she just published. They discuss Amy's journey in the legal marketing industry, her experiences during the pandemic, and the process of writing and publishing her book, "The Marketing Edge," which provides practical advice and checklists for marketing and PR.   Check out the show notes for this episode on our website.   Connect with us: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn

Beth and Debbie interview Jodie Baker, founder and Group CEO of Xakia Technologies, discussing her career journey and her mission to make legal tech affordable and accessible for all. Jodie shares her challenges as a female founder in a male-dominated industry and emphasizes the importance of being authentic and creating a successful business to inspire others.   Check out the show notes for this episode on our website.   Connect with us: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn

Beth and Debbie interview Duane Morris partner, Michael Cohen, who shares his journey as an employment lawyer and his transition to becoming a renowned speaker and coach. Michael discusses his passion for workplace culture, diversity and inclusion, and mental health awareness, highlighting the importance of being a mentor and role model, particularly as a "girl dad" and coach to young women in sports.   Check out the show notes for this episode on our website.   Connect with us: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn

Beth and Debbie interview Lisa Linsky, a criminal prosecutor and partner at McDermott Law, discussing her journey as a pioneer in LGBTQ+ diversity and inclusion. Lisa shares her challenges, from coming out at work to establishing the first LGBTQ+ committee at a big law firm, ultimately creating a safe and inclusive environment for colleagues and setting a benchmark for other firms.   Check out the show notes for this episode on our website.   Connect with us: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn

Beth and Debbie talk with software and technology sales executive, Debbie Richardson, about being a leader at LexisNexis, her career journey in the legal industry and the importance of disruption and questioning the status quo. They also talk about her leadership approach, the value of back-to-basics learning, and share stories of inspiring and mentoring others in their professional growth.   Check out the show notes for this episode on our website.   Connect with us: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn

Beth and Debbie talk with certified life coach and founder of QSN Consulting, LLC, Qiana Nelson, about her notable career trajectory and delves into the significance of her leadership superpower, aptly named "spirit," and how leaving a lasting impression on people matters.   Check out the show notes for this episode on our website.   Connect with us: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn

Beth and Debbie talk with legal industry pioneer, Connie Brenton, about her journey to becoming a powerful leader and the strength it took to get there.   Check out the show notes for this episode on our website.   Connect with us: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn

Beth and Debbie walk with SVP of Product at Actionstep, Valerie Connell about her journey to becoming a powerful leader.   Check out the show notes for this episode on our website.   Connect with us: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn

Debbie interviews Beth about her journey in the legal tech field from receptionist to CRO. She also discovers her leadership superpower of motivation.   Check out the show notes for this episode on our website.   Connect with us: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn

Beth interviews Debbie and discovers her leadership superpower and how she decided early on to switch her career focus to law firms and never wavered.   Check out the show notes for this episode on our website.   Connect with us: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn

Beth and Debbie talk with Editor-in-Chief of Legal IT Insider, Caroline Hill, about her journey to becoming a powerful leader.   Check out the show notes for this episode on our website.   Connect with us: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn

Beth and Debbie talk with Chief Information Officer, Judith Flournoy, about her journey to becoming a powerful leader. She credits her success to creating and surrounding herself with a powerful network of support.   Check out the show notes for this episode on our website.   Connect with us: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn

Beth and Debbie talk with technologist, Natalie Waggett, a recovering banker turned technologist who is passionate about leading with Love. She's currently the CEO and Chief Inspiration Officer of Ohanafy in Wilmington NC where she combined good friends, love for an industry, and love for Salesforce into a thriving tech startup that is taking the craft beverage industry by storm....solving problems in rapid time at scale!   Check out the show notes for this episode on our website.   Connect with us: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn

Beth and Debbie talk with corporate trainer, Sherine Clarke, about her journey to becoming a powerful leader. She credits her success to women who have mentored by example and has turned that into her superpower of inspiring others.   Check out the show notes for this episode on our website.   Connect with us: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn

Welcome to the Powerful Leaders, No Apologies podcast! We're excited to share our first episode with you! Today, Beth and Debbie interview law firm executive director and podcast host, Amanda Koplos, about her journey to become a powerful leader. One of her key learnings is that leaders should train people so they can leave you, but treat them so they will stay.   Check out the show notes for this episode on our website.   Connect with us: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn

Welcome to the Powerful Leaders, No Apologies podcast. In this quick introduction to the show, we'll let you know who we are, what we'll be discussing on the show, and why you should tune in.