The Inspired Attorney®

Inspired Attorney: Debbie Hoffman Founder & CEO of Symmetry Blockchain Advisors https://www.symmetryadvisors.net/ Most recently recognized as the 2019 ABA Woman of Legal Tech and the 2019 Winner of Women With a Vision Award by 20/20 Vision for Success and Mortgage Women Magazine In Part 2 of our conversation, Debbie shares the advice that she gives all her students. She further encourages us to follow our dreams and offers insights on how to deal with “failure”. Additionally we talk about how she manages stress, along with how created balance in her life pre-COVID as a career mom when she was traveling a lot and in those times where she is inundated with work. We further discuss the need to further integrate technology into the practice of law, along with how she personally stays sharp in this ever-evolving field. Debbie encourages those who have questions about Blockchain or anything she has discussed, to reach out to her on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/debbiekhoffman/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/debbiekhoffman/)), Twitter (https://twitter.com/symmetryadvisor (https://twitter.com/symmetryadvisor)) or her website (https://www.symmetryadvisors.net/ (https://www.symmetryadvisors.net/)). Seeking further strategic guidance?

Inspired Attorney: Debbie Hoffman Founder & CEO of Symmetry Blockchain Advisors https://www.symmetryadvisors.net/ (https://www.symmetryadvisors.net/) Most recently recognized as the 2019 ABA Woman of Legal Tech and the 2019 Winner of Women With a Vision Award by 20/20 Vision for Success and Mortgage Women Magazine In Part 1 of our conversation, Debbie shares with us how her career, which began with an intent to focus on elder law, has unfolded to her practicing in real estate finance, teaching, serving as a General Counsel for a then start up, to now where she is a nationally recognized Blockchain expert and CEO of the company she founded, Symmetry Blockchain Advisors. Debbie also gives us insights on how she has been able to adapt and excel in the different roles she has taken on, how she knew to take the leaps she did, along with how she has transitioned away from a traditional legal role as an entrepreneur. _ Seeking further strategic guidance?

Inspired Attorney: Mitchell Beinhaker Practice Area: Small Business Law & Estate Planning Beinhaker Law https://beinhakerlaw.com/ (https://beinhakerlaw.com/) In Part 2 of our conversation, Mitch tells us about how he creates efficiencies, along with how he got into podcasting and the inspiration for his podcast, “The Accidental Entrepreneur” (https://beinhakerlaw.com/podcasting/ (https://beinhakerlaw.com/podcasting/)). In addition to Mitch encouraging attorneys to find and pursue their passions even if it is outside of the law, he also talks to us about how he manages stress. Lastly, when asked about some of the best advice he's ever gotten, Mitch tells us about two pieces of advice which have served him. Book recommendations mentioned in this episode: The Referral of a Lifetime: Never Make a Cold Call Again! by Tim Templeton: https://www.amazon.com/1-Page-Marketing-Plan-Customers-Money/dp/1989025013/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr= (https://www.amazon.com/1-Page-Marketing-Plan-Customers-Money/dp/1989025013/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=) The 4-Hour Workweek: Escape 9-5, Live Anywhere, and Join the New Rich by Tim Ferris https://www.amazon.com/4-Hour-Workweek-Escape-Live-Anywhere/dp/0307465357 (https://www.amazon.com/4-Hour-Workweek-Escape-Live-Anywhere/dp/0307465357) _ Seeking further strategic guidance?

Inspired Attorney: Mitchell Beinhaker Practice Area: Small Business Law & Estate Planning Beinhaker Law https://beinhakerlaw.com/ (https://beinhakerlaw.com/) In Part 1 of our interview with Mitch Beinhaker he talks to us about his career in the law, how he went to law school for the skillset but without the intention of necessarily practicing. He shares how his journey after law school, which started in insurance sales. Mitch speaks about how Law Schools can better prepare students for the practice of law, along with offering advice why and how attorneys in small firms should create business plans. We further discuss his learnings in building a firm with multiple attorneys and why he decided to close this firm and go solo again. With this, he offers insights on what you should do if you do want to partner up. Lastly, he shares resources that he uses to advance his business knowledge and manage his practice. Book recommendations mentioned in this episode: The Pumpkin Plan by Mike Michalowicz https://www.amazon.com/Pumpkin-Plan-Strategy-Remarkable-Business/dp/1591844886Money/dp/1989025013/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr= (https://www.amazon.com/Pumpkin-Plan-Strategy-Remarkable-Business/dp/1591844886) https://www.amazon.com/Pumpkin-Plan-Strategy-Remarkable-Business/dp/1591844886Money/dp/1989025013/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr= (Money/dp/1989025013/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=) The E-Myth Attorney: Why Most Legal Practices Don't Work and What to Do About It by Michael E. Gerber https://www.amazon.com/Myth-Attorney-Legal-Practices-About/dp/0470503653 (https://www.amazon.com/Myth-Attorney-Legal-Practices-About/dp/0470503653) _ Seeking further strategic guidance?

Inspired Attorney: Lauren A. Klein Practice Area: Domestic & International Private Wealth Services, Tax Planning Holland & Knight LLP In this episode, Lauren tells us about her journey to becoming an attorney, how she ended up specializing in Tax, along with sharing insights as to why she followed her gut and left the Big Four to move into private practice. She also then tells us about her later transition into a larger firm and her learnings along the way. Lauren emphasizes the importance of creating goals to guide your path, along with reaching out for help so that you can develop both personally and professionally. We further talk about how important the relationships you make along the way are. Additionally, we talk about managing debt after law school, working efficiently from home, and how she manages her mental state. She lastly shares with us why she is so passionate about her own self development and tells us about a coaching program she created for law students called The Law School Blueprint. Book recommendations: Your Money or Your Life: 9 Steps to Transforming Your Relationship with Money and Achieving Financial Independence by Vicki Robin https://www.amazon.com/Your-Money-Life-Transforming-Relationship/dp/0143115766 (https://www.amazon.com/Your-Money-Life-Transforming-Relationship/dp/0143115766) Money Is Simple: How The World Taught You Made It Complicated Paperback – December 31, 2018 by Brian Stephens https://www.amazon.com/Money-Simple-World-Taught-Complicated/dp/0578408678/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=money+is+simple&qid=1598024260&s=books&sr=1-1 (https://www.amazon.com/Money-Simple-World-Taught-Complicated/dp/0578408678/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=money+is+simple&qid=1598024260&s=books&sr=1-1) Rich Dad Poor Dad: What the Rich Teach Their Kids About Money That the Poor and Middle Class Do Not! by Robert T. Kiyosaki https://www.amazon.com/Rich-Dad-Poor-Teach-Middle/dp/1612680194/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=Rich+Dad+poor+dad&qid=1598024421&s=books&sr=1-2 (https://www.amazon.com/Rich-Dad-Poor-Teach-Middle/dp/1612680194/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=Rich+Dad+poor+dad&qid=1598024421&s=books&sr=1-2) _ Seeking further strategic guidance?

Inspired Attorney: Lisa A. Linsky Practice Areas: Complex Commercial and Trust and Estate Litigation; Sexual Assault and Misconduct Investigations and Litigation; and Civil Rights Litigation. Partner at McDermott Will & Emery In Part 2 of our conversation, we delve further into the topics of balance creation and stress management. Lisa gives us insight as to how she, in the beginning of her career, learned how deal with the mental stresses related to the family violence work that she did so that she could compassionately and tenaciously represent her clients. Lisa further reveals how uncertainty actually is a good thing, and gives examples of how her career has been benefited by her following her intuition. We close out our conversation with additional useful advice for attorneys at all levels, along with Lisa's hopes for the future of the practice of law. _ Seeking further strategic guidance?

Inspired Attorney: Lisa A. Linsky Practice Areas: Complex Commercial and Trust and Estate Litigation; Sexual Assault and Misconduct Investigations and Litigation; and Civil Rights Litigation. Partner at McDermott Will & Emery In Part 1 of our conversation, Lisa tells us about how she made her decision to become a lawyer, which is not what you might think! She further reflects on her career as a prosecutor handling intense cases of domestic violence, child abuse and sex crimes investigations and prosecutions. We talk about Lisa's transition to Big Law civil practice after a 16+ career in public service, along with Lisa's creation of a ground-breaking and award-winning diversity and inclusion program at McDermott that reached outside the Firm to the broader legal and LGBT communities. Lastly, Lisa offers some practical advice to lawyers at all stages of their careers on how to attain balance, resilience and joy from our work as lawyers. _ Seeking further strategic guidance?

Inspired Attorney: Robert Drolet Practice Area: IP / Patents, and Patent Prosecution RL Drolet Patent Prosecution Services   In Part 2 of our conversation with Robert Drolet he shares some of the best advice he's ever gotten. He further talks to us about fear management, “shoulds” vs “needs”, and the importance of helping others. _  Seeking further strategic guidance?

Inspired Attorney: Robert Drolet Practice Area: IP / Patents, and Patent Prosecution RL Drolet Patent Prosecution Services   In Part 1 of our conversation, Rob talks to us about how and why he followed his gut by deciding to become a lawyer later in life after having retired from the Navy as an engineer. He shares with us some of the challenges he faced with this career shift, how he overcame them, along with why he started his own firm. Rob additionally reveals how he dealt with the uncertainties associated with opening his own firm as a new attorney. We further discuss topics such as managing your state, the importance of mentorship, and  the perception of success _ Need further strategic guidance?

Inspired Attorney: Maggie Abdo-Gomez Practice Areas: IRS Tax Defense, Consumer Bankruptcy, Estate planning/probate Law Office of Magda Abdo-Gomez In this episode, Maggie tells us about her journey in the law, and as a math major and mathematician who did not like law school and its shades of grey until she discovered tax law. She shares that although she did not like law school – she loves every minute of being an attorney. Maggie also tells us about how she came to open her own practice, her learnings and emphasizes the need to take vacation and time for yourself. We further talk about how to graciously bow out of a case when you notice it is not the right fit, along with always treating clients as you would wish to be treated. In addition, she advises both her peers and those considering law school, that practicing law should not be a job. We additionally talk about the importance of giving back, practicing ethically and with honesty, along with Maggie's wishes for the future of the practice of law. _ Are you seeking further strategic guidance on how to start loving what you do and maximize your small firm's overall profitability?

Inspired Attorney: Joshua Walker Chief Product Officer IPS, AON Author, On Legal AI (https://www.amazon.com/Legal-AI-Joshua-Walker/dp/1949884074 (https://www.amazon.com/Legal-AI-Joshua-Walker/dp/1949884074)) Senior Fellow & Associate Researcher, CNAM Co-Founder, CodeX Appointee & Member, California Bar Task Force on Access Through Innovation of Legal Studies (ATILS) In Part 2 of our conversation we continue to talk about the importance of recognizing and serving client needs, which often go unmet. Joshua shares how technology, with prescribed perimeters, can help attorneys rise to this task and stay relevant in the marketplace.  Additionally, he shares with us a unique and heartwarming way how how he dealt with the mental stresses that he experienced through his work in Rwanda, where he built the database to support the prosecution of the war crimes that occurred there. We also talk about what Joshua does today to manage stress and create a work/life balance, the stresses that litigators face, along with fear management and advice he has for law students. _ Seeking further strategic guidance?

Inspired Attorney: Joshua Walker Chief Product Officer IPS, AON Author, On Legal AI (https://www.amazon.com/Legal-AI-Joshua-Walker/dp/1949884074 (https://www.amazon.com/Legal-AI-Joshua-Walker/dp/1949884074)) Senior Fellow & Associate Researcher, CNAM Co-Founder, CodeX Appointee & Member, California Bar Task Force on Access Through Innovation of Legal Studies (ATILS) In Part 1 of our conversation, Joshua shares with us that his original intention for going into law was to become a War Crimes Prosecutor and how following this passion eventually lead to him discovering his love for mathematics, computer science, and IP. He tells us about how later one trade secret case for a then start-up http://thefacebook.com (thefacebook.com), inspired him to shift gears. We also talk about Joshua's passion for data science, mathematics and helping others, which is what spurred him to write his book, "On Legal AI" so he could help his peers understand the basics of this technology and to help them. Joshua shares insights on how the use of software can elevate the legal profession, how law firms can adapt to changing times in order to compete with consulting firms, along with other topics such as the billable hour and law firm structures! _ Have you lost the love for what you do? 

Inspired Attorney: Eugene Pettis Practice Area: Civil Litigation (Medical Malpractice, Wrongful Death, Personal Injury) Partner at Haliczer, Pettis & Schwamm, PA In Part 2 of my conversation with Eugene, he talks to us about one of the biggest challenges he still faces, which is balancing everything he wants to accomplish with his time here. He shares with us the importance of identifying the line between service to others and the pursuit of material things.  Further, we talk about how Eugene started his own law firm with no clients other than the cases he had inherited, sharing that he trusted his instincts. He states that in life you need to take a leap, as you will never know what you're capable of until you jump. He cautions, though, that those who simply want a 9 – 5 are not the ones who will make it to greatness – adding the example of Michael Jordan.  We lastly speak about what Eugene wishes for the future of the practice of law, and how he would like to be remembered. _ Seeking further strategic guidance on how to maximize the profitability of your Small Law Firm AND Love what you do?

Inspired Attorney: Eugene Pettis Practice Area: Civil Litigation (Medical Malpractice, Wrongful Death, Personal Injury) Partner at Haliczer, Pettis & Schwamm, PA In Part 1 of this episode, Eugene shares with us how he came to become an attorney after initially aspiring to be a dentist. He tells us how he finds balance, and also shares with us his biggest takeaway from his 2013 - 2014 term as the president of the Florida Bar. Eugene reiterates the unique role lawyers play in the world, which is to protect people, make industry accountable, and have a positive effect on the communities we serve. Further, we talk about the William Reece Smith Leadership Academy, which was the brainchild of Eugene and a part of his legacy. The program, which now has had its 8th graduating class, was created to give attorneys the leadership tools that aren't taught in law school and to open up opportunities to attorneys that otherwise would not be afforded to them. He analogizes the work done through the academy as akin to lifting up the veil in the Wizard of Oz; when we can see behind the veil and are given the right tools, we can see that we are able to in fact achieve that which was previously thought impossible. In addition to emphasizing that we should always lift one another up, because there is more than enough for us all – he shares a powerful story Dennis Archer shared with him. We lastly talk about COVID-19, the lasting effects along with what he sees as some of the learnings and takeaways from what we all have been through with COVID-19. _ Seeking further strategic guidance on how to maximize the profitability of your Small Law Firm AND Love what you do?

Inspired Attorney: Alex Vanicek Practice Areas: Commercial and Real Estate Litigation Alex B. Vanicek, P.A. In this 2nd part of my conversation with Alex, he shares with us how he manages stress for himself, which includes how he manages and sets client expectations. We also talk about Alex's wishes for the future of the practice of law, along with advice he has for his colleagues who are starting out. _ If you're seeking further strategic guidance on how to strategically pivot in order to maximize the overall profitability of your small law firm, utilize the following link to take advantage of one of my complimentary offers:

Inspired Attorney: Alex Vanicek Practice Areas: Commercial and Real Estate Litigation Alex B. Vanicek, P.A. In this first part of my 2-part conversation with Alex, he tells us how he got into law and how he came to serve his niche group of clients, which are Brazilians who do business in the United States. He shares how he branched away from the firm where he got his start to go out on his own when the time felt right while continuing to foster great relationships. Alex touches on topics related to being a solo practitioner, and what it's like to be a solo practitioner who is fairly new to the practice of law. He advises how he manages the mental stress of the uncertainty related to the eb and flow of work, how he has always sought help when in unfamiliar territory, and the delicate balance of knowing when and when not to take a case. We close out Part 1 of our conversation speaking about how he manages disputes when working with others by setting expectations. _ If you're seeking further strategic guidance on how to strategically pivot in order to maximize the overall profitability of your small law firm, utilize the following link to take advantage of one of my complimentary offers:

Inspired Attorney: Katherine (Katie) Lyons Practice Focus: US Patents Firm: Michael Best & Friedrich LLP In this interview, Katie talks to us about how she started as a patent engineer with her firm and why she transitioned to becoming a patent attorney with the encouragement and guidance from her firm. We additionally speak about how Michael Best has supported both her professional and personal growth. Katie she offers guidance on how to be most productive when working from home. Further, we discuss how Michael Best has responded to COVID-19 in a supportive and fluid way for its staff and clients. Katie further gives insights for those who are interested in studying law and speaks about the benefits of utilizing mentorships to learn and grow as an attorney. We also talk about how she maintains a work life balance, manages stress and speaks about how her firm promotes this balance amongst its employees. _ Seeking further strategic guidance?

Inspired Attorney: Jennifer Wioncek Partner in the Tax & Estate Planning Group at Bilzen Sumberg* Adjunct Professor in the University of Miami School of Law L.L.M. Taxation Program Email: jwioncek@bilzin.com In this interview with Jennifer, we talk about how she came to study law from originally wanting to be a professional athlete, and how she discovered her love for tax law. Jennifer, who now teaches a class on representing high net worth individuals, shares how she got into teaching and how she uses her platform as a way to prepare law students for what to expect after law school, which includes speaking about work/life balance, which she describes as “work life balance, real or myth?”. Jennifer shares insights that she gives her students and how she creates this balance for herself. Further, we talk about some of the greatest learnings she has had in her career, student loan debt, and her wishes for the future of the practice of law. *All views expressed by Jennifer are her own and do not represent those of Bilzen Sumberg. _ Seeking further strategic guidance?

Inspired Attorney: Ricky Patel Practice Focus: Class Action & First-party Insurance Litigation Firm: Farrell, Patel, Jomarron & Lopez In Part 2 of this interview with Ricky Patel, he offers guidance for those starting a law firm, which he breaks down to 4 points. We additionally dedicate a portion of the conversation speaking about the importance maintaining good mental health in the legal profession, and how Ricky does this for himself. Ricky talks to us about burn out and how he strikes a balance with his firm, other businesses, his philanthropic involvement with the Miami Children's Hospital and his family. He advises that it is important to make time for the things you love, including those aspects of the law! Lastly, Ricky shares with us his wishes for the future of the profession. _ **If you're struggling to cope and need help, reach out for help, whether it is from friends and family or a mental health professional. Check with your local bar association for resources.** The Florida Bar offers crisis intervention and a referral for up to three free visits with a locally based, licensed mental health professional. Currently offering telehealth therapy sessions until it's safe for in person sessions. 833-FL1-WELL (833-351-9355) Additional resources: Yoga / Meditation: https://www.warriorflow.com/ (https://www.warriorflow.com/) Breathwork: https://www.willfly.co/ (https://www.willfly.co/) Feel free to add any others in the comments! **These are not paid ads, simply resources that I hope can help you!** _ © 2020 Sharon Ve, LLC. All rights reserved.

Inspired Attorney: Ricky Patel Practice Focus: Class Action & First-party Insurance Litigation Firm: Farrell, Patel, Jomarron & Lopez   In Part 1 of this 2-Part episode, Ricky speaks to us about how he got his start in class-actions, along with what he loves about being an attorney. Ricky shares insights from some of the more prominent cases that he has handled such as the Baylor rape cases, and his representation of Hotels affected by the BP oil spill.   Ricky, who moved to the U.S. with his Family as refugees, tells us that he got into law to help others and shares that he and his partner started their firm in 2009 as a result of the hiring freeze after he graduated law school. He further details the struggles that he and his partner went through in order to get to where they are now. Ricky emphasizes that need to persist, to seek help through mentorships along the importance of measured growth, careful/wise spending and not comparing yourself to larger wealthy firms when starting out. He additionally encourages us to understand our weaknesses as opportunities for growth. Lastly, we speak about how his firm fosters a culture of humility and equality through initiatives such as #FPJLCares, which serves as a reminder to always remember the human factor.   Check out Ricky's scholarship fund called "Paying it Forward", which is intended to fund law students who create social programs that giveback to those in need, so that those who strive to make a positive change can get help relieving the burden of tuition costs. http://www.OURSCHOLARSHIP.org (www.OURSCHOLARSHIP.org)   _  Looking for further strategic guidance?

Inspired Attorney: Thomas Graham Practice Area: Plaintiff Personal Injury, Medical Malpractice and Maritime Litigation  Leesfield Scolaro, P.A.  Follow Tom on IG: https://www.instagram.com/thomasgrahamtrialattorney/ (https://www.instagram.com/thomasgrahamtrialattorney/)   In this interview, Tom shares what he loves most about being an attorney along with how he manages one of his greatest challenges: time management. Tom talks to us about how he creates a work life balance.  Additionally, we discuss goal setting and built in reflection time. Along with touching on the benefits of remote work and how his firm has responded to COVID-19, he also shares his philosophy based on the book “Man's Search for Meaning” by Viktor Frankl: focus on yourself, your family and loved ones, and be conscious of how you respond to the challenges that come up in life.  _ Seeking further strategic guidance? Schedule a complimentary Strategy Session with Sharon Ve: https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=19054797 (https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=19054797) _  © 2020 Sharon Ve, LLC. All rights reserved.