Podcast appearances and mentions of melissa shanahan

Are you unknowingly sabotaging your productivity by confusing intentional planning with procrastination? Many law firm owners fall into a common trap of delaying tasks, but not all delays are created equal. Understanding the difference between virtuous procrastination and sagacious delay can transform how you manage your time, decisions, and momentum.   In this episode, Melissa explains how virtuous procrastination disguises itself as productivity but ultimately undermines self-trust and progress. By contrast, sagacious delay is a strategic, intentional pause that honors your commitments while allowing you to reschedule tasks thoughtfully. Melissa breaks down how these two approaches impact your ability to stay on track and build momentum in your firm.   Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/311

Are you holding your firm back by being too frugal with your business tools? Many law firm owners fall into the trap of cutting corners on essential tools, forcing their teams to cobble together inefficient processes that ultimately create drag throughout the entire organization.   In this episode, Melissa explains the difference between “expense thinking” and “investment thinking.” Expense thinking focuses on saving money right now, keeping firms stuck in reactive survival mode. Investment thinking, by contrast, considers what the business needs to operate at a high level both today and in the future.   Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/310

How can data-driven decision-making transform your law firm? Melissa sits down with Mastery Group member Chelsea Riekkola, who went from not knowing what a KPI was to confidently setting and achieving ambitious revenue goals for her firm.   Learn how Chelsea's firm exceeded their revenue targets through intentional goal-setting and team engagement, her unique approach to Monday Map using digital tools, and how she maintains extraordinary productivity despite juggling partnership responsibilities, board work, and family life. If you've been struggling to implement systems, Chelsea's practical insights will show you what's possible when you commit to the process.   Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/309

Are you holding yourself back with limiting beliefs about your law firm? In this episode, Melissa dives into the psychology behind these self-imposed limitations and why your brains is so good at finding evidence to support your negative beliefs.    She shares a practical framework to break free from these limiting narratives by actively hunting for disconfirming evidence. By challenging your assumptions with real data and others' experiences, you can make decisions based on facts rather than feelings. This isn't about forced positive thinking, it's about expanding your perspective to see the full range of possibilities available to you and your firm.    Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/308

Have you been struggling to create effective bonus structures that actually motivate your team without compromising the health of your firm? Today, Melissa wraps up this mini-series on bonuses and incentives with some crucial clarifications that could make or break your compensation strategy.   In this final installment, she addresses the most common questions and misconceptions that have emerged from the previous discussions. These insights will help you create compensation structures that align with your firm's goals while keeping your team engaged and motivated.   Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/307

Are you struggling to create a bonus structure that rewards your team while protecting your firm's financial health? Many law firm owners implement incentive plans that end up hurting their business or creating resentment.    In this episode, Melissa builds on the previous discussions about incentives by focusing specifically on group bonus structures. She shares why revenue-based incentives can be problematic and offers a more sustainable approach based on profit after owner distributions and taxes. This method ensures the business remains healthy while still providing meaningful rewards when the firm is truly thriving.   Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here:https://www.velocitywork.com/306

Is your law firm's incentive structure actually hurting your business instead of helping it? Many bonus systems are fundamentally broken—either paying out too much or making it impossible for team members to succeed.   In the second part of this deep dive into incentives and bonuses, Melissa walks you through how to calculate proper baselines, set up tiered structures that protect your firm's profitability, and ensure you're not giving away too much when team members exceed expectations. If you've been struggling with incentive structures that feel unfair or unsustainable, this episode provides the roadmap to fix them once and for all—while keeping your business healthy and your team motivated.   Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/305

Have you been struggling to create an incentive plan that actually works for your law firm? The truth is, there's no one-size-fits-all solution. What works brilliantly for one firm could be disastrous for another.   In this episode, Melissa walks you through how to establish smart baselines using the "true average" method, the critical differences between expectations and incentives, and the pros and cons of group versus individual incentive structures. This is part one of a deep dive into creating incentive plans that are sustainable, motivating, and aligned with your firm's values.   Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/304

Are you feeling boxed in by your own thinking? As a law firm owner, it's easy to fall into mental traps that limit progress and create unnecessary stress. The truth is, you are never stuck because of your circumstances. You are stuck because of how you think about those circumstances.   In this episode, Melissa explores common thought patterns that keep law firm owners trapped in cycles of stress and limitation. She breaks down the relationship between thoughts, feelings, actions, and results, showing how small shifts in thinking can open up new possibilities. This simple practice transforms the experience from feeling stuck to becoming strategic.   Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/303

Are you struggling to decide which Rocks to prioritize in your quarterly planning? Do you find yourself avoiding the uncomfortable tasks that deep down, you know are essential for your firm's growth? In this episode, we get into the details of setting effective Rocks and facing the discomfort that often comes with making tough decisions as a business owner.   If you're ready to step into your next level as a business owner and create the kind of firm you've always wanted, this episode is for you. Melissa will guide you through the process of setting Rocks that align with your goals, even if they make you squirm. By the end of this episode, you'll have a clearer understanding of how to prioritize your efforts and move forward with confidence.   Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/302

Do you ever feel boxed in by your own plans and systems? Like you're constantly battling against a set of rigid rules that leave no room for flexibility? Many law firm owners struggle with the idea of structure, viewing it as a restriction rather than a tool for success.     Discover the power of practicing restraint within a flexible structure and learn how tools like Monday Map/Friday Wrap can help you strike the perfect balance. Whether you're struggling with all-or-nothing thinking, battling burnout, or simply looking for a more empowering way to approach your goals, this episode will give you the perspective and strategies you need to take control of your time within your law firm and life.     Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/301 

The Law Firm Owner Podcast has officially hit 300 episodes! This milestone speaks to the power of consistency and long-term commitment. When Melissa launched the show nearly six years ago, she set a clear goal: show up every single week, no matter what.      In this episode, Melissa reflects on the lessons learned from staying the course. She shares how consistency has shaped both the podcast and her business, why playing the long game is essential for success, and how creating something of value without expecting immediate results leads to real impact over time. She also reveals exciting updates for the podcast and what's ahead for Velocity Work.     Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/300

Have you ever stopped to consider what you're tolerating in your law firm and life? We often put up with less-than-ideal situations without realizing the impact it has on our productivity, morale, and bottom line. But what if we could harness the power of tolerance in a positive way to achieve our goals and dreams?     In this episode, Melissa explores the concept of tolerance from two different angles. She dives into how tolerating the wrong things can hold us back, while strategically tolerating discomfort can propel us forward. Tune in now to learn how to use tolerance to your advantage and take your law firm to the next level.     Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/299

Do you ever feel like you're stuck in a loop, failing to follow through on your goals despite your best intentions? You're not alone. Many law firm owners struggle to create lasting change in their lives, relying on willpower alone to push through. But what if there was a better way?     In this episode, Melissa shares insights on how to make success automatic. By setting clear, identity-based rules for yourself, you can remove decision fatigue and create a new normal. It's not about motivation; it's about the systems you put in place.     Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/298  

Do you feel like you're constantly working harder but not seeing the growth you want in your law firm? You're hiring more people, taking on more cases, and putting in long hours, yet your revenue and profit aren't keeping up. It's a frustrating cycle that can lead to burnout and leave you feeling stuck on a treadmill.     In this episode, Melissa explains how shifting your mindset from working harder to allocating smarter can help you scale your firm without burning out. You'll learn how to focus on what truly moves the needle for your business and avoid spreading yourself and your team too thin. Get ready to get off the treadmill and start seeing real, sustainable growth.     Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/297  

Do you ever feel like you're stuck in a rut with your law firm, desperately wanting to get your hands around your business but not knowing where to start? You're not alone. Many law firm owners struggle with understanding their data, identifying key focus areas, and making the necessary changes to achieve their goals.   In this episode, Melissa dives deep into the common challenges faced by law firm owners who feel trapped in a glorified job rather than running a thriving business. She shares insights on how to break free from the cycle of stress and overwhelm by prioritizing data-driven decision making and strategic planning. If you're ready to take the reins and create the law firm of your dreams, this episode is a must-listen!   Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/295

Are you considering expanding your law firm by adding a new practice area? It's a common dilemma faced by many law firm owners looking to grow their business and boost revenue. But is it the right move for your firm at this time?     Don't let the allure of a new revenue stream cloud your judgment. Tune in to discover how to approach expansion strategically and set your law firm up for sustainable success.     Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/294

Do you ever feel like you're frantically chasing your goals, only to be left deflated when you don't hit them by the deadline? What if the key to sustainable growth lies not in the destination, but in the stretch?   In this episode, Melissa dives deeper into the topic of goal-setting and shares some powerful insights that can transform the way you approach your targets. She explains why focusing on the work, rather than the outcome, is the secret to creating true velocity in your firm. Get ready to learn how to set ambitious targets while maintaining peace and perspective along the way.   Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/293

Do you have a clear plan for your law firm's growth in 2025? Are you setting the right revenue goals and projections based on your firm's unique circumstances?   In this episode, Melissa shares how to approach goal setting and revenue projections in a way that makes sense for your firm. Specifically, she dives into strategies for estate planning firms with maintenance programs to set accurate revenue goals and projections. By breaking down your revenue streams and understanding the nuances of recurring revenue, you can create a roadmap for growth that is both ambitious and attainable. This episode tells you how.   Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/292    

How do you determine what the value of your business is, and how can you think differently to increase the value of your law firm? This topic will strike a chord with lawyers everywhere, but not enough lawyers understand the value of answering these questions, especially when it comes to retiring from or exiting your law firm.   To help you start thinking abut your practice as an asset, Melissa is joined this week by Darren Wurz. Darren is the founder and CEO of The Lawyer Millionaire Founders Network, a next-generation membership model of financial planning designed exclusively for law firm owners. Tune in this week to learn practical strategies to improve your structural, human, customer, and social capital, setting your firm up for long-term success and a profitable exit.   Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/291

Sometimes, looking back over the past 12 months leads to self-criticism and a sense of disappointment, not allowing you to see the small wins that have made this year a success. If you look back over 2024 and can't shake that voice of self-criticism, this episode is for you.   It's easy to lose sight of how far you've come, especially when there are still items you didn't cross off your list this year. But even if this year hasn't been as deliberate or as fruitful as you'd hoped, there's a lot to be proud of yourself for, and Melissa is showing you why on today's show.   Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/290

Have you ever felt like you're riding the line between feeling good and feeling down, but not quite tipping over into full-blown depression? As a high-achieving law firm owner, it's easy to get caught up in the drive to succeed and push yourself to the limit, often at the cost of your own well-being.   In this episode, Melissa sits down with her therapist, Jenny Jacobsen, to discuss the importance of mental health for law firm owners. Jenny is a Certified EMDR therapist with 14 years of experience in clinical practice. They dive into the concept of curiosity as the opposite of depression and how getting curious about your own feelings and experiences can lead to greater self-compassion and connection.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/289

Do you ever feel like you intellectually understand a lesson, but haven't truly learned or implemented it? In this episode, Melissa shares eight hard-won lessons from law firm owners that have been game-changers for their businesses. These are not just quippy truths, but real experiences that have forever changed the way these owners operate.   Join Melissa this week to hear the top eight lessons learned by her Mastery Group members, and consider how you can start practicing them in your own firm. Whether it's implementing a system for regular check-ins with your team, tracking conversion rates, or learning to trust others with responsibility, there is at least one takeaway that can help you create better results for yourself and your firm.   Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/288

Do you ever feel like you're just going through the motions at work, never quite making progress despite working long hours? Do you struggle to find a sense of calm and control over your time and results?    In this episode, Melissa sits down with Drew Hickey, a Mastery Group member and Monday Map Power Hour facilitator who has experienced a profound shift in her mindset and productivity through implementing the Monday Map process.    Tune in this week as Melissa and Drew dive deep into the power of the Monday Map process for creating intentional plans and honoring them throughout the week.    Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/287

As a law firm owner, it's easy to fall into the trap of working long hours and neglecting other important areas of your life. And if, like so many other lawyers, you're looking for a way to achieve better work-life balance, you're in luck.   This week, Melissa is joined by Lauren Davis, a medical malpractice and personal injury attorney based in Virginia. Lauren shares her journey from working 45-65 hour weeks at a midsize firm to starting her own practice and intentionally scaling back her hours.    Listen in to hear Lauren's practical tips and insights on how to track your hours, create an ideal workweek template, and delegate tasks to free up more time for the things that matter most.    Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/286

Feeling exhausted as the holidays approach? You're not alone. While some level of exhaustion is normal, different types of exhaustion require different remedies.   Tune in to discover the difference between harmful and beneficial exhaustion, learn practical tips for restoring the nervous system and cognitive function, and understand the importance of having a strong support team.    Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/285

Are you ready to make 2025 your best year yet as a law firm owner?   In the midst of holiday celebrations and all the things that come with this exciting time of the year, the key to success lies in being proactive and setting yourself up for a strong start. And in this episode, Melissa shares two crucial areas to focus on now that will pay dividends in the new year and beyond.   Listen in this week to learn Melissa's tips for teeing yourself up for success in 2025. You'll hear how surrounding yourself with the right people can provide energy, inspiration, and guidance you need to thrive, why data is an essential piece of the puzzle, and the key metrics every law firm owner should track to gain clarity and make informed decisions to drive your firm forward.   Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/284

If you ever find yourself doubting your team's ability to hit your firm's revenue goals, you're not alone. Many law firm owners struggle with this, but the truth is, lowering your targets is not the answer.    Listen in this week to discover how to identify the real reasons your team may not be following processes and what you can do as a leader to address those underlying issues. Learn why accountability, training, and process validation are essential for enabling your team to perform at their best, and important questions to ask yourself about what's really going on under the surface if you find yourself wanting to lower targets.    Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/283

Last week, Melissa introduced you to the concept of the future vision you are creating for your law firm. In order for it to come to fruition, you must deeply believe in that vision as an owner, which requires you to take a close look at your mindset and assess whether or not it's supporting you in achieving your goals.    Join Melissa this week to learn the mindset shifts required to break free from the perfectionism and doubt that can hold you back from achieving your goals. You'll learn how to quiet the voices of fear and doubt and instead focus on aligning your actions with the paradigm shift required to reach your goals.   Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/282

Do you ever feel like you're stuck in the day-to-day of your law firm, making decisions that don't align with the future you envision? Whether you want to be a $2 million firm, a $5 million firm, or something more, you must start thinking from your future and making choices that bridge the gap between where you are now and where you want to be.     Discover the power of thinking from your future and learn practical strategies for aligning your daily decisions with your long-term vision. Melissa emphasizes the crucial role of data in creating a realistic roadmap to your desired future state, and shows you how to overcome the default thinking patterns and behaviors that are holding you back from achieving your goals.     Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/281

Have you ever experienced an organization grasping tightly onto you as a client at all costs, even if it wasn't in your best interest to stay? Maybe you've done this with your own clients in the name of retention. You probably already know this doesn't feel good to anyone, and it's also not the healthiest way to run your business. At Velocity Work, Melissa takes a different approach.   Tune in this week to hear where Melissa stands on client retention and when it might be time to let a client fly on their own. You'll learn the importance of recognizing how a step back could be a positive move in your client's journey, examples of when sabbaticals in your professional relationships might be necessary, and Melissa's top tips for approaching these partnerships with honesty, trust, and a focus on long-term growth.   Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/280

When law firm owners find Melissa, one of the most common problems they face is finding enough time in their calendars for the things that are most important to them personally and professionally. Not only is taking care of your closest relationships a priority, but so is your health and wellbeing, and of course, growing your firm. If balancing it all isn't something that comes easily to you, don't worry. Melissa has you covered this week.    In this episode, Melissa shows you how to create calendar "Zones" dedicated to your priorities, and guides you through the process of identifying these priorities and gradually improving time management. She offers practical advice, breaking the process down into manageable steps so firm owners can progressively take back control of their time.   Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/279

Do you ever catch yourself making excuses for your business, whether it's the way things are run, your team members, or the numbers? Does a bad day, a lack of sleep, an unproductive meeting, or a difficult client sound like a valid reason for why you couldn't achieve what you said you would?   While excuses are a trap many intelligent and high-achieving law firm owners fall into, the hard truth is that they are a surefire way to undermine your success. Join Melissa this week as she encourages you to examine where you might be in the habit of giving excuses and making yourself a victim to your circumstances. You'll hear why excuses can be so damaging to you and your firm's success, how they waste your time, energy, and resources, and Melissa's tips for kicking excuses to the curb and embracing a no-excuses mindset.   Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/278

Is your firm lacking structure and organization when it comes to how work gets done? Are tasks falling through the cracks or are team members working in silos? How do you know that both your team and yourself are following through on the things you said you would do?   Join Melissa in this episode as she shares the two key elements that can help bring more visibility, accountability, and progress to your firm's workflow. You'll hear the importance of having a centralized task management system and holding regular progress meetings with your team, and how these strategies can create a culture of high performance and results in your law firm.   Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/277

Adding capacity to your law practice, whether through hiring new team members, outsourcing work, or using AI to help you with certain tasks does not always add up to overall workflow improvement. This can be really frustrating for law firm owners because you've spent time and money on these solutions, only for the work to continue getting stuck in workflow bottlenecks.Melissa Shanahan and Ben Hudson join me today to discuss what changes when you shift your focus from resource efficiency to flow efficiency, and why sometimes the key to increasing capacity is actually doing less. Ben shares his insights on using data to inform hiring decisions, improving client perception, and defining productivity in a way that aligns with his goals, and we dive deep into the tools and strategies that make a difference.For full show notes, transcript, and more information, visit: https://www.agileattorney.com/36Catch me at the Clio Cloud Conference 2024, Tuesday, October 8th at 3pm (Discount code: ACTFAST): https://cliocloudconference.com/

Do you ever feel like you're carrying the weight of your law firm's growth on your shoulders alone? As overachievers, it's easy to fall into the trap of trying to make things happen by sheer force of will. But the truth is, to achieve your ambitious goals, you need a team that can rise to the challenge.    Tune in this week as Melissa shares why law firm owners end up with mismatched teams, and what you can do to course-correct. You'll learn the importance of articulating your vision, setting clear standards, and gaining team buy-in so you can build a team that matches where you're taking your law firm.    Get full show notes and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/276

Do you feel like you should be generating more revenue from the leads your marketing efforts are currently bringing in? If you're pouring money into marketing but seeing minimal results, this episode is for you. As a law firm owner, conversion rates are a critical metric to track and understand if you want to get the most out of your marketing spend.    In this episode, Melissa digs into what a conversion rate is and how improving it can massively increase your firm's revenue without needing to spend more on marketing. Tune in to understand how to calculate your firm's conversion rate, identify the common barriers to tracking and improving conversion, and implement practical strategies to optimize your intake process.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/275

While finance management can feel intimidating, the great news is that consistent financial reporting isn't rocket science. There's just a little organization to get squared away upfront, which will make you the most empowered, responsible business owner you can be. If you need a clear plan for creating a consistent financial reporting system, this episode is for you.   Listen in as Melissa shares the four key numbers every law firm owner needs to know, the cadence at which you should be reviewing these numbers, and why having a blueprint for your firm's financial reports is critical for long-term success.    Get full show notes and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/274

Are you pedaling furiously on the bike of your law firm, working harder and harder but not getting very far? Making the transition from "bike" to "car" means leveraging the tools, systems, and people around you to accelerate your progress and create momentum, rather than grinding away and doing everything yourself. While it can feel scary to let go of control, the payoffs in terms of growth, sustainability, and quality of life are immense.   Join Melissa on this episode as she explores the powerful analogy of getting off the bike and into the car when it comes to running your law firm. She shares concrete strategies for delegation, constraining your focus, and stepping into a leadership role, and how this allows you to set yourself up for sustained growth, rather than short bursts of progress that end up being followed by burnout.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/273

As a law firm owner, you have the opportunity to be a mentor for the people on your team. But what does effective mentoring actually look like in practice? This week, Melissa outlines the best kind of mentoring you can offer your team, what it means to get them on the same page and take on what matters most to you, and how this can drastically shape the culture of your company.   Join Melissa as she explores the concept of “capital M mentoring” and “little m mentoring” and their differences. You'll learn how “little m mentoring” gets your whole firm working in a way that has your stamp of approval, examples of how you can incorporate more of it into your firm's culture, and the long-term impact of up-leveling your mentoring game.    Get full show notes and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/272

When you are mentally, physically, and emotionally strong, it lends itself to success in all areas of your life. Setting personal goals alongside your business goals is a powerful way to show up as your best self. But too often, Melissa sees law firm owners and their teams neglecting their personal development in the pursuit of professional achievement.   In this episode, Melissa shares an inspiring team initiative you can borrow to create or strengthen the culture of making progress, and the remarkable impact this has had on Velocity Work's team in just one month. Tune in to discover the simple yet intentional process Melissa uses to help every team member set a meaningful personal goal and stay accountable to it.    Get full show notes and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/271

What does it take to cultivate the mindset of a champion who realizes their biggest dreams? As a law firm owner, it's easy to get caught up in the day-to-day grind and lose sight of the bigger vision. If you feel disconnected from your purpose, you're in luck because on this episode, Melissa shares key takeaways from an inspiring talk by Bob Bowman, the longtime coach of Michael Phelps, on the characteristics of champions.   Tune in to hear an overview of the six characteristics of champions and how these principles can be applied to you as a law firm owner. You'll learn why having a compelling dream is critical, how to create a plan to achieve it, and the importance of focusing on the process over outcomes.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/270

Billing monthly is the norm for most law firm owners, and it's probably working just fine for you and your clients, so why would you do it differently? This is what Eileen Kendall from Kendall Law believed… until she realized that a simple billing switch could change the game for her firm's cash flow.   Eileen Kendall is back this week to share how billing twice a month has helped stabilize her firm's cash flow, especially as she's gone through a period of rapid growth from $300K to $900K per year. Listen in to discover how you can improve your firm's financial health and create more breathing room in your schedule with a simple billing tweak.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/269

By the end of May, Eileen Kendall was essentially running her firm alone. With her associate out sick and no paralegal support, this was her breaking point. She was close to shutting the doors to her firm when she decided it was time to make some big changes to get her house in order.   Eileen has been a private client of Melissa's for a couple of years, and on this episode, Eileen and Melissa are discussing how Eileen's tenacity has helped her weather some significant storms in her business. Join them to hear what it takes to build a get-it-done mentality, why Eileen believes failure isn't an option, and how her mindset has kept her afloat when she thought the worst might happen.    Get full show notes and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/267

Welcome to a special episode as Melissa celebrates five years of The Law Firm Owner Podcast! There are a handful of other things Melissa is celebrating right alongside the fifth anniversary of the podcast, and she's using this opportunity to introduce you to Velocity Work's COO, Giselle Urbina, and highlight everything that's been going on behind the scenes.   Join Melissa and Giselle on this episode as they dig into the work Giselle has been doing inside the company as COO and facilitator, and how she came into this role. They're also exploring some of the major client wins that have been happening in Melissa's groups, the role Giselle has played in ensuring client success, and the updates and improvements you can expect to see soon.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/267

There are two approaches to running a law firm and the first one is structured. Discipline and focus are highly valued with this style, and there's often intensity present too. The second approach is one that's softer, more flexible and adaptive. Both sound great, but is there a time and place for one over the other? Which foot are you leading with? And why does understanding your stance even matter?   Listen in this week as Melissa walks you through what it takes to create radical shifts inside your firm, and why your approach matters when it comes to achieving whatever it is you have your sights set on right now. You'll hear when the combination of structure and flexibility is truly powerful, how to exercise your individual strengths, and how to walk the line of focus and adaptability at the same time.    Get full show notes and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/266

Melissa Shanahan, founder of Velocity Work and host of The Law Firm Owner Podcast, teaches her clients a planning and accountability method she calls Monday Map/Friday Wrap. This method highlights some vital parts of the Agile practices of weekly planning and weekly review meetings.Monday Map/Friday Wrap is about creating micro-feedback loops within the context of a larger strategic plan, which is the kind of thing I love, so tune in this week as Melissa and I unpack this methodology, and have an all-round entertaining discussion about strategic planning and its benefits in general for the leaders of legal teams.For full show notes, transcript, and more information, visit: https://www.agileattorney.com/25Start your Agile transformation today and check out these free resources to help you and your team develop a more Agile legal practice: https://www.agileattorney.com/start

Welcome to another episode of The Law Firm Blueprint #summerseries! This week, Seth and Jay are chatting coaching with Melissa Shanahan, a law firm coaching expert. In this episode, they delve into the world of coaching, exploring different perspectives with one of the best in the business. Melissa Shanahan shares her journey and philosophy on coaching, focusing on productivity and business planning. With extensive experience in facilitating business retreats and consulting, Melissa emphasizes the importance of having a clear goal, a well-thought-out plan, and the execution of that plan. She highlights the three-legged stool concept: clarity, planning, and execution. In this episode, while chatting coaching with Melissa, Seth and Jay also cover the similarities and differences between coaching in the legal and medical fields. Melissa notes that while there are many similarities, lawyers often have a brain trained for business ownership, making it easier for them to adopt necessary skills. The conversation touches on the importance of strategic planning, the challenges of scaling a business, and the need for patience and perseverance. #LawFirmGrowth #Scaling #Coaching #SummerSeries #LawFirmBlueprint #SummerSeries (0:00) Law Firm Blueprint Intro (0:32) Melissa Shanahan joins the show! (5:27) Comparing the medical space with the legal space (11:39) Defining success and setting goals for a business (15:34) Evaluating coaching readiness (23:13) The challenges of running a business (28:02) Jay's Firefighter (38:00) Wrap up Links Mentioned: https://www.velocitywork.com   *BluShark Digital Social & Website* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blusharkdigital Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blusharkdigital Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/blusharkdigital TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@blusharkdigital LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/blushark-digital Website: https://www.blusharkdigital.com

As a law firm owner, you've taken huge risks and put in blood, sweat, and tears to lift your firm off the ground. You've considered how to run your firm in a way that feels healthy and aligned, and you're ensuring your clients and team are served at the highest level possible. But have you ever stopped to put a number on what success means to you? Have you figured out how all this work you've put in can lead to more time and money freedom for you?   Join Melissa on this episode as she offers her guide for calculating how your business can fund your dreams. You'll hear how you can make jumps in profit without putting in extra work, what playing around with your future numbers looks like, and a mental exercise to get you in the practice of mapping out your dreams.    Get full show notes and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/265

What is your people cost? Do you know what should be included in and excluded from your people cost? And how can getting into the nitty-gritty from a numbers perspective help you run your firm more smoothly and even create happier employees and clients?   If you feel like you're just surviving as a law firm owner right now and want to understand the levers you can pull to truly thrive, listen in. Melissa is showing you how to calculate your people cost, what you might need to do if your people cost is higher or lower than it should be, and she's also giving you prompts that will allow you to run the checks and balances necessary for a healthy firm.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/264

Are you aware of the return on investment you're getting from your hires? Does it feel like you have to watch your pennies when it comes to taking an owner's draw or rewarding your team? How might you be hiring blindly, and how is it affecting the health of both your business and your team?   If you're embarking on your team-building journey with hunches or an unwillingness to look at the math, listen in today to hear how you're setting your business up for failure. Melissa is showing you the order in which you should be hiring, why you must raise your standards when it comes to the ROI from your team, and how to avoid bloating your people cost.    Get full show notes and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/263

There's a recurring theme Melissa has noticed in her consult calls with law firm owners. They're willing to pay thousands on coaching programs without understanding the health of their business, and if this is you, Melissa is here this week to show you why you have no business paying that much when you don't know what's going on under the hood of your firm. You'll learn what happens when you can't answer basic questions about gross revenue or net profit, how this is a super common experience among owners, and why getting back to the fundamentals doesn't have to cost thousands.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/262

It's human nature to fixate on day-to-day tasks—whether that's in your firm, your personal life, or elsewhere. Maybe you're overwhelmed by the prospect of achieving something greater for your practice or you think that anything outside of those menial tasks requires too much time and energy. Well, consider this your wake up call.    If you're ready to lock in (and do so relentlessly), Melissa has the insights to help you manage your priorities so you not only get more done but enter a state in which you can achieve more in an efficient manner. It's all about finding “flow”. Tune in as she breaks down how to become more focused and turn off the voice in your head telling you that you can't do it.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/261

Melissa's guest this week is someone who has won over not only the Velocity Work community, but the law firm owner sphere as a whole. If your firm's digital marketing process is something that leaves you overwhelmed and confused, you have no idea what your marketing company is doing for you, or you want to better understand how to get higher-quality leads, you're in the right place.   Matt Burke is the CEO of ZillaMetrics: a digital marketing company that helps law firms get not just more, but better leads. His philosophy and expertise on digital marketing specific to law firms has been game-changing for many of Melissa's clients, and he's here to share his insights on how ZillaMetrics uniquely serves law firms.    Get full show notes and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/260

If you're like most law firm owners, you run hot all the time. Your calendar is full of obligations, weekends are far from relaxing, and it's causing you pain. The reality is, as important as all these things feel, not everything can be a top priority. So where do you draw the line?   It can be incredibly defeating to feel like you can't get your head above water no matter how hard you try. In this episode, Melissa is highlighting the ways law firm owners expect themselves to operate at an unsustainable pace, the downsides of doing so, and how the Monday Map process helps you pull the plug on this way of being so you can play the long game.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/259

Do you know where your business falls on the S-curve right now? The S-Curve illustrates the growth of a small business from initial slow growth, to expansion, to a plateau as the market saturates. This means that after a phase of hyper-growth, you will most likely experience a tapering off, and this period is full of opportunities you can take to ensure the long-term health of your firm.   Join Melissa this week as she shows you how to navigate the peaks and plateaus in your firm's S-Curve, and the key pieces you must address during these periods for the long-term success of your company. You'll learn why plateaus are a sign of a healthy business, the importance of being both honest and curious as an owner, and how to avoid getting distracted by shiny object syndrome.    Get full show notes and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/258

In a world that tells you there's one right way to do things and perfection is virtuous, you're not alone if you feel resistance to the idea that 80% is enough. The Awesome 80% is the foundation to Melissa's work across all of her programs, and she's here today to show you the power of celebrating good enough.   Tune in to learn about the importance of aiming for progress, not perfection, and why you only need to strive for 80% in anything you do. Melissa is sharing examples from inside her Mastery Group of what happens when you're in the practice of celebrating good enough, and why real progress gets made when you adopt this mindset.    Get full show notes and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/257

If you're a long-time listener of the show, you'll likely be familiar with Mastery Group; the container in which quarterly strategic planning is facilitated. Melissa has the perfect guest on the show this week to dive deep into what you can expect from Mastery Group, Client Services Manager Mika Beccone. Mika is the backend coordinator and point person for all members, and she's here to shed light on what goes on inside.   Tune in this week to learn everything you need to know about Mastery Group, from the resources available to you inside and what to expect when you join, to how much time you need to invest in the program, and Mika's top three pieces of advice to all new members.    Get full show notes and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/256

If you've ever questioned the power of strategic planning, look no further. Melissa has centered her entire business around it for good reason, and she believes it is vital for every firm to do. On this episode, she's laying out the key aspects involved in effective strategic planning so you can plug yourself into this process in a meaningful way and fly further faster.   Tune in this week to learn what strategic planning is and why every law firm owner needs this process. Melissa is sharing the basic elements of strategic planning that make it a game-changing system, how Monday Map/Friday Wrap works perfectly alongside it, and how this framework will help you create the velocity you need to get where you want to go in a more streamlined way.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/255

There's a notion in law firm owner communities that owners ought to stay above the fray, and that they don't need to know how the sausage gets made within certain elements of their businesses. The truth is there's a fine line between knowing how the sausage gets made and neglecting something important inside your business. Melissa is sharing her thoughts on this today.   Tune in as Melissa explains why people who have experienced new success tend to think they no longer need to get in the weeds of their business, what a healthy amount of digging into your business looks like, and the importance of owning your hunches to ensure a healthy firm.    Get full show notes and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/254

Your time is your most precious asset, and the reality is, your calendar probably doesn't accurately reflect how you're spending it. When you own a law firm, there is so much invisible work that doesn't get captured anywhere, and the only way to truly know where you can buy back your time is to take stock of where it's going right now.   Join Melissa on this episode as she gives you a time auditing exercise that will make your invisible work visible. You'll learn why creating space is essential if you want to grow a healthy firm and how you'll end up throwing money at the problem if you don't take action to eliminate your time sinks.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/253

Rewarding your team with an unexpected bonus when the firm is thriving feels good, not just for them but for you too. However, shelling out cash without evaluating all the variables can end up creating a win-lose situation for your employees and the continued health of your firm.   Join Melissa on this episode as she offers you a guide for giving impromptu bonuses. You'll learn why protecting the health of your firm must be a top priority, an evaluation process that will ground you in facts, not feelings, the four financial metrics you must be addressing, and Melissa's favorite ideas for rewarding your team in non-monetary ways if you're not quite ready to give them cash.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/252

Periods of high pressure are inevitable as a law firm owner. It is crucial to support yourself to get through these times with as much ease, flow, and productivity as possible, but the reality is that most owners are not planning ahead.   Join Melissa this week as she shows you why supporting yourself and your health is of utmost importance during phases of high pressure. You'll learn how owners tend to sabotage themselves when the stakes are high, why problems occur when you don't factor stress in ahead of time, and Melissa's top tips for proactively supporting yourself during these periods in your firm. ‍   Get full show notes and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/251

How often do your meetings feel like a drag? A few key things must be in place if you want to avoid unfocused, distracted, and unproductive meetings, and simple tweaks can be the difference between meetings that feel like duds and meetings that have your whole team shining. Melissa is laying out the keys for you this week.   Tune in to discover seven strategies for running focused, productive, and highly engaged meetings. You'll learn what may be contributing to meetings that feel like a drag and Melissa's top tips for leaning into human psychology to lead effective meetings.    Get full show notes and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/249

What do you do when something that feels like an emergency happens in your firm? Whether it's a key member of your team resigning, receiving a terrible review, or anything else that catches you off guard, Melissa is offering you a guide this week for what to do when you feel blindsided.   In this episode, you'll learn how handling emotionally charged situations differs from other challenges in your firm, questions to ask yourself to produce the most productive outcomes, and how to embody business-owner maturity in even the toughest situations.    Get full show notes and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/248

While you might believe shooting for high growth rates year after year will help you find the success you're seeking as a business owner, Melissa is here this week to show you why a constant commitment to growth might actually be creating problems in your business that are hard to recover from.    Tune in to hear the four byproducts that come from chasing high growth rates year after year, and how they can become untenable for you, your team, your clients, and your overall business. You'll learn how to play the long game instead, and Melissa's tips for handling a high-growth year with grace and intention.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/247

As a law firm owner, it's easy to fall into the trap of complaining in times of frustration, but expending energy wallowing in problems can have direct, long-lasting negative impacts on your firm. If you're focused on complaining, you aren't focused on effective problem-solving.    Tune in this week as Melissa outlines exactly how complaining is negatively impacting your firm's culture, morale, and productivity, and a couple of exercises to snap yourself out of the negativity cycle the next time you catch yourself in it.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/246

Do you take time to investigate the problems that crop up in your law firm? To dig under the surface-level symptoms? Or do you do what's necessary to keep moving forward and stick a pin in them for a later date?   Unlike surface-level problem-solving, root cause analysis aims to uncover the root cause of a problem and prevent it from recurring, and it's the secret to saving you, your team, and your clients a ton of heartache and pain. Listen in this week to hear why root cause analysis is the most responsible way of dealing with problems in your firm, and Melissa's favorite tool for uncovering the deeper reasons something isn't working.    Get full show notes and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/245

When owners find Melissa, they're often struggling to find enough time for the things that are most important to them. Close relationships, health and wellbeing, the growth of the firm — it's a lot to juggle. How can you begin to use Monday Map/Friday Wrap if you don't know how to prioritize what's most important?    In this episode, Melissa exposes a common pain point for law firm owners who want to take control of their time. She shares how to create Zones in your calendar to dedicate to your priorities, how to uncover what your top priorities are, and how she helps the firm owners inside Mastery do this progressively better each week.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/244

Any time you set out to achieve a goal, it requires deliberate focus. Unfortunately, it is human nature to get distracted, which is where frequent, regular course correction comes in. If you want to make real progress, you need to course correct often, and Melissa is sharing the best ways to do it this week.   Listen in to learn how to course correct so effectively that each time you fall off track (and you will), the time it takes to regain focus becomes even faster and smoother. Melissa shares why having a regular cadence to your course corrections matters, two tools to make them more effective, and why getting more specific about what you want to accomplish makes course correcting along the way easier.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/243

The practice of honoring your calendar, which Melissa teaches in her Monday Map/Friday Wrap process, is what will make you a better business owner, lawyer, and leader. It's all about showing up for what truly matters, but you're not alone if a sense of perfectionism and overwhelm are keeping you from making progress.   This week, you'll hear an excerpt from one of Melissa's recent Mastery Group client calls that led to some big breakthroughs. It'll change the game if you currently feel like you're not performing at your best. Tune in to hear why intentionality is the secret to making progress in ways that will blow your mind, and the only things you should be spending your time and energy on.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/241    

If, like many of Melissa's clients, you've been tolerating or living with team issues in your firm for a while, the hard truth is that these perceived problems may not be a team problem. They might actually be a you problem.   On this episode, you'll learn the opportunities you have as an owner, leader, and CEO to shift the culture within your firm towards greatness. Listen in to discover why you don't need a blueprint for perfection in navigating team issues, and how just a little bit of initiative and curiosity can make all the difference.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/241

In this episode, we started off at ClioCon 2023 with our special guest, Melissa Shanahan, founder of Velocity Work. We take you through the top highlights so far. We were captivated by Del Friday's enlightening talk on mental health and the power of micro steps, a vital tool for navigating through the stressors of our industry. The connections and camaraderie we've experienced with colleagues and vendors have been equally enriching, offering us an expanded perspective on the legal field. Imagine using FBI negotiating strategies in your legal firm. Sounds intriguing, right? Well, we're bringing you just that in the second half of our show. We discuss the insights of former FBI hostage negotiator Chris Voss and how these strategies can be transposed into the legal world. We also shine a light on the phenomenal work of the Clio Client Support team, an essential pillar of the ClioCon experience. Finally, we share how Melissa's Law Firm Owner Podcast is empowering law firm owners to level up their businesses. Remember to hit that subscribe button and share this episode with your colleagues. Packed with invaluable insights, this is an episode you don't want to miss! Show Highlights: The highlights from ClioCon 2023. Del Friday's talk on mental health and the power of micro steps in combating overwhelm in the legal industry. Legal negotiation tactics inspired by former FBI hostage negotiator Chris Voss. The role of the Clio Client Support team in enhancing the ClioCon conference experience. The importance of attending conferences for personal growth, networking, and understanding industry innovations. How to extract maximum value from conferences, be it through attending sessions, networking, or utilizing resources like the Clio Client Support team. Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Supporting Resources: Schedule a Consultation: https://gngf.com/consultation  Visit the Website: https://gngf.com/  Visit streamlined.legal:https://streamlined.legal/  Twitter: @NextLevel_Legal  Instagram or Facebook: @nextlevel.legal https://who.is More Information About Our Hosts: Melanie Leonard: streamlined.legal —-------------------------------- For help automating key processes in your law firm and implementing legal tech (especially around Clio & Lawmatics), check out the free videos and resources at https://streamlined.legal/videos to streamline your law firm TODAY. Mark Homer: Get Noticed Get Found —-------------------------------- Every day, the Get Noticed Get Found team (GNGF) helps ambitious law firms push through their growth plateaus. If your marketing budget is $80,000 or more a year and you are interested in learning how the GNGF team can help take your law firm's marketing to the next level, schedule a conversation with our team at https://gngf.com/consultation  or give us a call at 513-444-2016.   If you are just getting started but want some hand-holding and guidance as you spend more time and money in marketing, check out GNGF's sister company https://lexcelerate.legal, which provides marketing help through group coaching, training videos, and downloadable guides for solo and small law firms. —-------------------------------- Information on our guest host: Melissa Shanahan – Velocity Work: https://www.velocitywork.com/  Melissa Shanahan founded Velocity Work after several years at a consulting firm focused on the growth of private practices all across the U.S. After coaching over 350 doctors, dentists, and lawyers – she chose to narrow her services to law firms only and started Velocity Work. The host of The Law Firm Owner Podcast and an extremely effective coach for attorneys running their own firms, Melissa brings her A-game to everything she does. Her energy is infectious and the material she is teaching will forever change how you think. From mindset to vision, to productivity and tracking firm data, Velocity Work has helped hundreds of attorneys grow their firm on their terms. ACTION STEPS: Melanie's Action Steps If you haven't bought your ticket for the Clio Conference next year. If you're a Clio user, in my mind, it's a no-brainer. If you're not a Clio user, check out the agenda once it gets released. It may very well be a great opportunity for you as well, especially given the tracks they have that don't have anything to do with the software. We're talking about marketing, and we're talking about financial awareness. I want you to listen to the Law Firm Owner podcast hosted by Melissa Shanahan. If you haven't done so already:  Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you listen And once you have subscribed - please leave us a 5-star rating and review as that will help this podcast get discovered by other law firm owners.     Until next time, don't forget…..Your Law Firm is a business -- take it to the next level.   *** Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com. Let them know I sent you.

Business coach Melissa Shanahan discusses how she helped a small group of law firm owners build a dashboard for tracking key metrics in their practices (i.e., a "tracking portal"). She also showed them how to define the various roles for work done in the firm (now or in the future) through an "accountability chart." Show Notes Velocity Work (Melissa's website) Law Firm Owner (Melissa's podcast) Mastery Group (Melissa's coaching program for law firm owners) Check out the Law Firm Systems Workshop Join the '80/20 Inner Circle' (private online group for law firm owners) Get my new email course: ChatGPT for Lawyers (it's free) Thanks to Our Sponsor   Smith.ai is an amazing virtual receptionist service that specializes in working with solo and small law firms. When you hire Smith.ai, you're hiring well-trained, friendly receptionists who can respond to callers in English or Spanish.   If there's one great outsourcing opportunity for your practice, this is it. Let Smith.ai have your back while you stay focused on your work, knowing that your clients and prospects are being taken care of.   Plans start at $210/month for 30 calls, and pricing starts at $140 for 20 chats, with overage at $7 per chat. They offer a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee on all receptionist and live chat plans, including add-ons (up to $1000).   And they have a special offer for podcast listeners where you can get an extra $100 discount with promo code ERNIE100. Sign up for a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee now (and learn more) at smith.ai.   EPISODE CREDITS: If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.   He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their businesses and impact the world.  

Artificial intelligence is gaining ground rapidly in many areas, including better note-taking by creating accurate transcripts and recordings at the same time. Tools like Otter.ai allow you to do this using any modern smartphone.  Every lawyer should at least try Otter.ai to understand the power of note-taking powered by artificial intelligence. In this episode I explain exactly why this possibility is to useful for lawyers. Show Notes Otter.ai (special link to get 1 month of the Pro Level for free) Otter Transcript of last week's podcast episode with Melissa Shanahan (you will have to use the Otter app on your phone or computer to access all the amazing features discussed in this episode) GPT3 Technology (Wikipedia article) ChatGPT (Wikipedia article) Co-Pilot coaching program (30-day free trial with no credit card —as mentioned in the episode) The 80/20 Principle: The Secret of Achieving More with Less, by Richard Koch (about using the power of 80/20 leverage in any kind of business) Subscribe to 80/20 Lawyering - a Substack-published newsletter for solo & small firm lawyers who are looking for ways to get more of what they truly want without unnecessary stress or strain. Join 'Inner Circle' - a private discussion group for lawyers interested in making massive improvements in their law practices. Thanks to Our Sponsors "ChatterBoss is an incredible remote executive assistant company that helps solopreneurs and small businesses grow quickly and save money. Your dedicated ChatterBoss assistant can help you with case management, billing support, email optimization, social media, process building, automation, and more. They even have on-demand paralegals and legal assistants.  The service is customized to your budget and is on-demand, so you are able to work with your assistant as much or as little as you need throughout the week. The minimum monthly spend for a dedicated executive assistant is only $200/month.   The best way to get started is to schedule a free consultation and find out exactly how the service works. Click this link to schedule a free 30-minute call, and you'll get a special 15% discount when you sign up with ChatterBoss." Smith.ai is an amazing virtual receptionist service that specializes in working with solo and small law firms. When you hire Smith.ai you're actually hiring well-trained, friendly receptionists who can respond to callers in English or Spanish.   If there's one great outsourcing opportunity for your practice, this is it. Let Smith.ai have your back while you stay focused on your work, knowing that your clients and prospects are being taken care of.   Plans start at $210/month for 30 calls and pricing starts at $140 for 20 chats, with overage at $7 per chat. They offer a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee on all receptionist and live chat plans including add-ons (up to $1000).   And they have a special offer for podcast listeners where you can get an extra $100 discount with promo code ERNIE100. Sign up for a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee now (and learn more) at smith.ai.   EPISODE CREDITS: If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.   He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.   Find out more at EmeraldCity

Tracking your firm's revenue and expense numbers gives you helpful insight into which areas of your practice are more profitable or which staff members or contractors are truly valuable. Melissa Shanahan, a top-notch business coach for solo and small firm attorneys, joins Ernie to discuss how best to track these metrics. Show Notes The Law Firm Owner Podcast (Melissa Shanahan's podcast) Velocity Work (Melissa's website) The 80/20 Principle: The Secret of Achieving More with Less, by Richard Koch (about using the power of 80/20 leverage in any kind of business) Subscribe to 80/20 Lawyering - a Substack-published newsletter for solo & small firm lawyers who are looking for ways to get more of what they truly want without unnecessary stress or strain. Join 'Inner Circle' - a private discussion group for lawyers interested in making massive improvements in their law practices. Thanks to Our Sponsors "ChatterBoss is an incredible remote executive assistant company that helps solopreneurs and small businesses grow quickly and save money. Your dedicated ChatterBoss assistant can help you with case management, billing support, email optimization, social media, process building, automation, and more. They even have on-demand paralegals and legal assistants.  The service is customized to your budget and is on-demand, so you are able to work with your assistant as much or as little as you need throughout the week. The minimum monthly spend for a dedicated executive assistant is only $200/month.   The best way to get started is to schedule a free consultation and find out exactly how the service works. Click this link to schedule a free 30-minute call, and you'll get a special 15% discount when you sign up with ChatterBoss." Smith.ai is an amazing virtual receptionist service that specializes in working with solo and small law firms. When you hire Smith.ai you're actually hiring well-trained, friendly receptionists who can respond to callers in English or Spanish.   If there's one great outsourcing opportunity for your practice, this is it. Let Smith.ai have your back while you stay focused on your work, knowing that your clients and prospects are being taken care of.   Plans start at $210/month for 30 calls and pricing starts at $140 for 20 chats, with overage at $7 per chat. They offer a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee on all receptionist and live chat plans including add-ons (up to $1000).   And they have a special offer for podcast listeners where you can get an extra $100 discount with promo code ERNIE100. Sign up for a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee now (and learn more) at smith.ai.   EPISODE CREDITS: If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.   He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.   Find out more at EmeraldCity

As a business owner, you instinctively want to strive for perfection, but today's guest is here to talk about the importance of balance and how that will lead to better results for your company.  Melissa Shanahan is the Founder of Velocity Work and the host of “The Law Firm Owner Podcast”. Melissa joins the host Molly McGrath to talk about how a better mindset can lead to high results cycle for your company.    Takeaways:  In reality, it doesn't matter if you are in a high results cycle or a low results cycle. The important thing is being balanced in all aspects of your business.  You want to have a clear goal of what you are striving to achieve. This will help you figure out if you are reaching your goal and avoid spending time on areas that won't help you reach that.  There are three control points that you can have at any given moment; your thoughts or mindset, your perspective or attitude, and your actions.  You can't base results on focusing solely on action. These don't work because you haven't run them through the three control points and this will make the goal unrealistic to obtain. If you are thinking low-quality thoughts, then you will feel in a low-quality state which leads to you taking low-quality actions.  If you sit down and honestly write down all your opinions, thoughts, beliefs, and attitudes about what you hoping to achieve then there is a more realistic chance that you will achieve that than if you were just positive about it all the time.  Confusion is the greatest gift because it means that you are on the verge of a breakthrough.  Quote of the Show: “If you are thinking low-quality thoughts, you will feel low-quality feeling states and you will take low-quality actions.” - Melissa Shanahan Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-shanahan/ Website: https://www.velocitywork.com/ Podcast: https://www.velocitywork.com/podcast Bootcamp Link: https://www.lawfirmadminbootcamp.com/ Ways to Tune In: Amazon Music - https://www.amazon.com/Hiring-and-Empowering-Solutions/dp/B08JJSLJ7N Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hiring-and-empowering-solutions/id1460184599 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/3oIfsDDnEDDkcumTCygHDH Google Podcast - https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cDovL2ZlZWRzLmxpYnN5bi5jb20vMTc4MTM2L3Jzcw Stitcher - https://www.stitcher.com/show/hiring-and-empowering-solutions YouTube - https://youtu.be/IeJ5jB7bPPI Hire & Empower is produced by Ringmaster, on a mission to create connections through B2B podcasts. Learn more at https://ringmaster.com/

Today's guest spent several years at a consulting firm coaching over 350 doctors, lawyers, and other professionals until she decided she had enough. Melissa Shanahan is the Founder of Velocity Work and the host of The Law Firm Owner Podcast. Melissa joins host Molly McGrath to talk about how to build high cycle results for your law firm.   Takeaways:  There are many law firm owners out there that are ready to take on clients and work but they need guidance on how to run their business. It's important to have accountability when it comes to running your law firm. You have to take ownership of your business. Most law firm owners are looking for a way to feel organized and feel more in control of the things that are happening around them. You don't need to be hyper-focused on a certain issue. Hold yourself accountable and bring in others to help you solve the issue. Fun team-building activities shouldn't replace serious planning for the next quarter. You can still have fun but the serious work needs to be done. Your business is either in a low result cycle or a high result cycle. You can't be in the middle.  There are three parts to success; know what you are aiming for, make a well-thought-out deliberate plan, and you have to honor your plan. Quote of the Show: “There are Low Results Cycle and High Results Cycle in Business. Where is your Firm today?" Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-shanahan/ Website: https://www.velocitywork.com/ Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-law-firm-owner-podcast/id1476021553 Ways to Tune In: Amazon Music - https://www.amazon.com/Hiring-and-Empowering-Solutions/dp/B08JJSLJ7N Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hiring-and-empowering-solutions/id1460184599 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/3oIfsDDnEDDkcumTCygHDH Google Podcast - https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cDovL2ZlZWRzLmxpYnN5bi5jb20vMTc4MTM2L3Jzcw Stitcher - https://www.stitcher.com/show/hiring-and-empowering-solutions YouTube - https://youtu.be/StbNr1Z8nC4 Hire & Empower is produced by Ringmaster, on a mission to create connections through B2B podcasts. Learn more at https://ringmaster.com/

Welcome to The Law Firm Owner Podcast, a show for owners who are ready to get clearer on their vision, really know their numbers, and leverage their mindset to build a successful firm. I'm your host, facilitator, coach, and founder of Velocity Work, Melissa Shanahan, and each week I will guide you through different tactics, tools and stories to get you the results you want.   I created this podcast to help owners take their firms from unorganized and unsustainable to truly intentional, so you can experience growth with greater ease. If you are ready to be a strong business owner, increase your revenue, take real time off, and build the law firm that gives you the life you want, this podcast is for you.    I'll be bringing a range of topics from the power of quarterly planning to accountability, business strategy and mental health. My approach will help you create sustainable success, not just in your firm, but in your personal life too.   If you like what you're hearing and are ready to shift how you operate to make much-needed changes in your business, make sure you subscribe to the podcast and join me here each week!

Shownotes can be found at https://www.profitwithlaw.com/304.   In this episode, Moshe Amsel is excited to celebrate the 3 year anniversary of the Profit with Law Podcast! For this special anniversary episode, the Profit with Law team has compiled highlights from the most popular episodes. These soundbites are the best of the best and you don't want to miss it!   7:12 - Episode 221 - Grow Your Law Firm Using Task Management for Teams with David Zumpano   13:51 - Episode 184 - Pricing, Profits, and Payment Plans with Richard Formoe   19:34 - Episode 56 - Live Marketing Q&A from the Law Firm Growth Summit Day 1 with Mark Homer, Gordon Firemark, Charles Krugel and Neil Tyra   24:46 - Episode 164 - A Lawyer's Path to Wealth with David Bitton   30:43 - Episode 232 - Profit from Business: The Value of Understanding Your Numbers with Brooke Lively   35:20 - Episode 128 - Doubling Your Revenue with Virtual Staff with Brett Trembly   40:33 - Episode 166 - Hope is Not a Good Strategy for Growing Your Law Firm with Michael Duffy   45:31 - Episode 131 - Best Of: Getting Over 1,000 Google Reviews with Sam Mollaei   51:45 - Episode 252 - Niching Down, Setting a Goal, and Living in the Moment with Melissa Shanahan   58:38 - Episode 242 - Get Your Clients from Contact to Consultation with Jan Roos Resources mentioned:   The Law Firm Growth Formula - http://thelawfirmgrowthformula.com/   Episode 221 - Grow Your Law Firm Using Task Management for Teams with David Zumpano -https://www.profitwithlaw.com/221   Episode 184 - Pricing, Profits, and Payment Plans with Richard Formoe - https://www.profitwithlaw.com/184   Episode 56 - Live Marketing Q&A from the Law Firm Growth Summit Day 1 with Mark Homer, Gordon Firemark, Charles Krugel and Neil Tyra - https://www.profitwithlaw.com/056   Episode 164 - A Lawyer's Path to Wealth with David Bitton - https://www.profitwithlaw.com/164   Episode 232 - Profit from Business: The Value of Understanding Your Numbers with Brooke Lively -  https://www.profitwithlaw.com/232   Episode 128 - Doubling Your Revenue with Virtual Staff with Brett Trembly - https://www.profitwithlaw.com/128   Episode 166 - Hope is Not a Good Strategy for Growing Your Law Firm with Michael Duffy - https://www.profitwithlaw.com/166   Episode 131 - Best Of: Getting Over 1,000 Google Reviews with Sam Mollaei - https://www.profitwithlaw.com/131   Episode 252 - Niching Down, Setting a Goal, and Living in the Moment with Melissa Shanahan - https://www.profitwithlaw.com/252   Episode 242 - Get Your Clients from Contact to Consultation with Jan Roos - https://www.profitwithlaw.com/242 Join our Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/lawfirmgrowthsummit/   To request a show topic, recommend a guest or ask a question for the show, please send an email to info@dreambuilderfinancial.com.   Connect with Moshe on: Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/moshe.amsel LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mosheamsel/

We're quick to look for affirmation and encouragement before we look for accountability That is why it's important to have someone (preferably not a friend) who will tell you what you need to hear and not what you want. Some great advice was shared by @Melissa S during our discussion. Check out the rest of the interview.

My bud, Melissa Shanahan, joins The Business Growth Advantage show this week! I've known Melissa for years and have been in awe of her business expertise, tenacity and effectiveness just as long. Melissa founded Velocity Work - a company dedicated to helping law firm owners grow their businesses on their own terms. After coaching over 350 doctors, dentists, and lawyers and spending several years at a consulting firm focused on the growth of their respective practices – Melissa chose to narrow her services to attorneys only and started Velocity Work.

Shownotes can be found at https://www.profitwithlaw.com/252.   You probably built your law firm to escape the constraints of working for another person. But the truth is that you need limitations of some kind, especially if you're the one choosing your objectives. This isn't a bad thing! Setting your own constraints is freedom. In this episode, Moshe Amsel has a wonderful chat with Melissa Shanahan, founder of Velocity Work and host of the Velocity Work podcast. She explains the importance of niching down and setting a goal. Moshe and Melissa also give valuable tips on how you can honor your plans. Planning and taking care of yourself are essential in choosing a goal and following through. If you want to know the ins and outs of setting a goal to constrain down and achieve freedom, tune in to this episode! Resources mentioned:   Book a Free Coaching Session and Learn More About the 90 Day Law Firm Turnaround Group Coaching Program! Episode 195 - Happiness Is The Drug of Success Episode 197 - Living Your Legacy Today Instead of Someday Work with Melissa: Velocity Work Velocity Work Mastery Group Velocity Work podcast Access the step-by-step guide to the Monday Map from Velocity Work! Living Forward by Michael Hyatt and Daniel Harkavy 90x goal planner Full Focus Planner Join our Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/lawfirmgrowthsummit/   To request a show topic, recommend a guest or ask a question for the show, please send an email to info@dreambuilderfinancial.com.   Connect with Moshe on: Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/moshe.amsel LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mosheamsel/

This week, I join Melissa Shanahan on the first episode of Velocity Work live! We talk about how I'm working less than 5 client hours a month, how I love Zelda, discover how my business works and the lessons I've learned along the way.

From mindset, to vision, to productivity, to tracking firm data, Melissa and Velocity Work has helped hundreds of attorneys grow their firm on their terms, and Melissa is the master behind it all!

Melissa Shanahan founded Velocity Work after several years at a consulting firm focused on the growth of private practices all across the U.S. After coaching over 350 doctors, dentists, and lawyers - she chose to narrow her services to attorneys only and started Velocity Work.The host of the Velocity Work podcast and an extremely effective coach for attorneys running their own firms, Melissa brings herA-game to everything she does. Her energy is infectious and the material she's teaching will forever change how you think.From mindset, to vision, to productivity, to tracking firm data, Velocity Work has helped hundreds of attorneys grow their firm on their terms. Website velocitywork.com Social Media Handles IG: @velocity.work FB: facebook.com/meetvelocitywork LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/velocity-work/ Clubhouse: @velocitywork

Melissa Shanahan founded Velocity Work after several years at a consulting firm focused on the growth of private practices all across the U.S. After coaching over 350 doctors, dentists, and lawyers - she chose to narrow her services to attorneys only and started Velocity Work.The host of the Velocity Work podcast and an extremely effective coach for attorneys running their own firms, Melissa brings herA-game to everything she does. Her energy is infectious and the material she's teaching will forever change how you think.From mindset, to vision, to productivity, to tracking firm data, Velocity Work has helped hundreds of attorneys grow their firm on their terms. Website velocitywork.com Social Media Handles IG: @velocity.work FB: facebook.com/meetvelocitywork LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/velocity-work/ Clubhouse: @velocitywork

Melissa Shanahan coaches attorneys and insists that they define key benchmarks as a way of growing their practices. In this episode, she and I discuss whether Jason Fried's statement is crazy talk or whether maybe there is some wisdom behind it. Show Notes "I've Never Had a Goal" (article by Jason Fried) Rework: Change the Way You Work Forever, by Jason Fried Remote: Office Not Required, by Jason Fried It Doesn't Have to Be Crazy at Work, by Jason Fried VelocityWork (Melissa Shanahan's website) Tom Shadyac (director of Bruce Almighty film who gave away most of his money) (article about Tom Shadyac, the famous Hollywood director who sold everything to live with less) How to Buy Happiness (Atlantic article about an economic study on the effect of higher income on happiness) BTW, I'd love to get your feedback or hear about your questions (which I'll answer in upcoming episodes). Remember…whenever you’re ready to start making your practice easier to manage, you can download the Solo & Small Firm Lawyers’ Guide to Working Smarter (and make your practice more automated, more virtual —and less dependent on you doing all the work and making all the decisions). Oh, and if you want ongoing guidance with improving your practice check out the Co-Pilot Mastermind program. Thanks to Our Sponsors SweetProcess is a great way to document your important workflows. Doing so will help make your practice run more smoothly, and require less involvement on your part to keep things running smoothly. The best way to understand how SweetProcess will help streamline your firm is to start using it. The company offers a 14-day free trial, but as a loyal listener of this podcast, you can try it for 28-days free of charge. And you don’t even have to enter a credit card to get started. Just navigate to SweetProcess.com/ernie to start your 28-day free trial today. And thanks to the other sponsor of this podcast… Smith.ai is an amazing virtual receptionist service that specializes in working with solo and small law firms. When you hire Smith.ai you’re actually hiring well-trained, friendly receptionists who can respond to callers in English or Spanish. If there’s one great outsourcing opportunity for your practice, this is it. Let Smith.ai have your back while you stay focused on your work, knowing that your clients and prospects are being taken care of. Plans start at $210/month for 30 calls and pricing starts at $140 for 20 chats, with overage at $7 per chat. They offer a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee on all receptionist and live chat plans including add-ons (up to $1000). And they have a special offer for podcast listeners where you can get an extra $100 discount with promo code ERNIE100. Sign up for a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee now (and learn more) at smith.ai. EPISODE CREDITS: If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment. He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world. Find out more at EmeraldCity Pro

We all know we should have laser-focused goals, informed by razor-sharp relevant data and metrics. But here in the real world, tracking our business's growth and overall well-being can leave us with a confusing mess of well-intentioned KPIs, random data, and unmet goals, all scattered amongst our various programs and platforms. And that's if we're even trying. Legal business coach Melissa Shanahan helps firms find their focus and create measurable, effective benchmarks. She joins us to discuss KPIs, tracking progress, finding the discipline needed to keep it all up (hint: delegate it), and how to keep it all from swamping your time. These success metrics don't just help the bottom line - they create a better, more efficient business that can help clients better meet their goals. Find Melissa at https://www.velocitywork.com/ and the Velocity Work Podcast. FiveStarCounsel.com Get our FREE client service whitepaper! Join the Five Star Counsellors FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1575616019297055

We welcome today Melissa Shanahan to the show! Melissa will be helping unlock our most valuable asset available to us: OUR BRAIN!

Establishing a business starts with your specific goals. But these will remain mere business punchlines unless you work on them, which calls for proper strategic planning. Larry Weinstein, CPA interviews Melissa Shanahan of Velocity Work to share how she helps law firms and attorneys realize that their goals will remain unimplemented without well-targeted planning, focusing on the right way to delegate and pay attention to successes on granular levels. Melissa discusses the importance of honoring your plan and going through it whatever it may take, allowing you to get out of your comfort zone and avoid getting sidetracked from all kinds of personal urges. Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!Here's How »Join the Successful Lawyers Podcast Community today:thecpaforlawyers.com

This week on Maximum Mom your host Elise Buie joined Melissa Shanahan! Melissa Shanahan founded Velocity Work after several years at a consulting firm focused on the growth of private practices all across the U.S. After coaching over 350 doctors, dentists, and lawyers - she chose to narrow her services to attorneys only and started Velocity Work. The host of the Velocity Work podcast and an extremely effective coach for attorneys running their own firms, Melissa brings her A-game to everything she does. Her energy is infectious and the material she's teaching will forever change how you think. From mindset, to vision, to productivity, to tracking firm data, Velocity Work has helped hundreds of attorneys grow their firm on their terms. Melissa lives in Denver where she and her husband (also an entrepreneur) are raising their sweet 1 year old son, Lachlan.www.velocitywork.comhttps://www.instagram.com/velocity.work/ Watch the interview here.

Melissa Shanahan the CEO of Velocity Work tells you how lawyers can achieve more results in less time. Get more info at https://www.VelocityWork.com/

Today Seth and Jay chat with Melissa Shanahan about the value and perspective a coach and bring as well as the mindset of intentional growth. Sponsors: BluSharkDigital https://www.blusharkdigital.com - SEO for Law Firms PriceBenowitz https://www.pricebenowitz.com DC, MD, VA Lawyers FirmFlex https://www.getfirmflex.com/social-supersystem/ - Social Media Marketing System for Lawyers Ruane Attorneys https://www.ruaneattorneys.com - Connecticut Criminal and Civil Rights Lawyers VelocityWork Masterclass MaximumLawyer https://www.maximumlawyer.com For more information follow our page! https://www.fb.me/maximumgrowthlive SHARE AND SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST Sharing and subscribing are great ways to help us to get the word out about the show. If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to share and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts and Spotify

Today Seth and Jay chat with Melissa Shanahan about the value and perspective a coach and bring as well as the mindset of intentional growth. Sponsors: BluSharkDigital https://www.blusharkdigital.com - SEO for Law Firms PriceBenowitz https://www.pricebenowitz.com DC, MD, VA Lawyers FirmFlex https://www.getfirmflex.com/social-supersystem/ - Social Media Marketing System for Lawyers Ruane Attorneys https://www.ruaneattorneys.com - Connecticut Criminal and Civil Rights Lawyers VelocityWork Masterclass MaximumLawyer https://www.maximumlawyer.com For more information follow our page! https://www.fb.me/maximumgrowthlive SHARE AND SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST Sharing and subscribing are great ways to help us to get the word out about the show. If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to share and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts and Spotify