Podcasts about Paralegal

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Play Episode Listen Later Jun 14, 2026 0:22

⚖️ What's the Difference Between a Paralegal and a Divorce Attorney? | Los Angeles Divorce ⚖️ Many people beginning the divorce process are unsure whether they need a divorce attorney or a document preparation service. Understanding the difference can help you choose the right level of assistance for your situation and avoid paying for services you may not need.

Is Your Paralegal Role AI-Proof? Here's How to Find Out (and What to do About it)

A Year and a Day: Divorce Without Destruction

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 9, 2026 17:31

Free Resource Mentioned in This Episode The AI Career Audit Coach The free tool Ann references throughout this episode. It is a custom GPT that asks you focused questions about your specific role, your practice area, and your goals, then builds you a personalized roadmap showing you exactly which tasks are at risk, which skills to develop now, and a simple one-hour-a-week plan to get there. Free. About 10 minutes. You will need a ChatGPT account to use it, but the free ChatGPT version works just fine. Get the AI Career Audit Coach here. Episode Summary Are you spending more time wondering if AI is going to come for your paralegal job than actually doing something about it? You are not alone, and this episode is going to change that. In Episode 179, Ann Pearson tackles the question every paralegal is thinking about but very few are addressing head-on. Which parts of your role are at risk of being absorbed by AI, and which skills are going to make you genuinely indispensable in the next chapter of this profession? Ann starts with the conversation that sparked this whole episode: her recent interview with Tony Castro, the Miami-based freelance paralegal whose courtroom-based business is one of the most AI-proof models in the industry right now. From there she gets real about why most freelance paralegal businesses are not the safety net people think they are, why the in-house paralegals who lean into this moment are the ones getting promoted and recruited, and three new paralegal job titles that did not exist three years ago. Then she hands you three strategies you can start working on this week. Loved This Episode? Share it with one paralegal in your network who needs to hear this conversation. This is the kind of episode that changes career trajectories, and you sharing it is what gets it into the right hands. And if you have not yet, take 10 minutes today and run your free AI Career Audit. Your future career will thank you.

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What Your Paralegal Knows That Could Save You Money on Your Divorce Case

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 9, 2026 30:44

Most people going through a divorce focus on what happens in the courtroom or mediation sessions. Very few stop to think about what happens behind the scenes, and that gap is costing them real money. The person who sees your case every single day, fields your calls, organizes your documents, tracks your deadlines, and watches how clients either help or hurt their own cases? That's your paralegal. And until now, she's never been on this show.In this episode, Jaime Davis, board-certified family law attorney at Gailor Hunt, pulls back the curtain with her colleague Liz Morgan, a family law paralegal with more than 30 years of experience working exclusively in family law. Liz joined Gailor Hunt in January of 1996 and has spent her career managing complex property and support cases, handling large-scale document discovery, and building the trial presentations that help clients tell their story clearly in the courtroom.Liz breaks down what paralegals actually do, why financial transparency is non-negotiable in North Carolina courts, and how client behavior, specifically disorganization, poor communication, and emotional decision-making, directly drives up legal fees. She also walks through the discovery process in plain language: why attorneys ask for so many documents, what they're looking for when they trace bank statements, and what happens when clients miss deadlines or delete digital evidence.Key TakeawaysConflict for conflict's sake is expensive. Fighting over a $100 piece of furniture or credit card points will cost far more in attorney fees than the item is worth. Liz identifies unnecessary conflict as one of the top drivers of avoidable legal costs.Your documents need to be complete and organized from day one. Uploading a screenshot of an account balance or the first page of a statement is not enough. Liz explains exactly how to submit financial records in a way that saves significant processing time and fees.Deleting texts, emails, or social media posts during litigation can have serious legal consequences. Once litigation begins or is anticipated, clients have a duty to preserve all digital evidence. Courts view destruction of electronic evidence negatively, even when it is unintentional.There is no such thing as winning in a divorce. Liz outlines what the clients who navigate divorce most successfully have in common: they stay organized, they listen to their attorneys, they separate legal decisions from emotional reactions, and they focus on what life looks like when their divorce is over.Liz Morgan is a family law paralegal at Gailor Hunt. To learn more or to connect with the Gailor Hunt team, visit divorceistough.com.Follow A Year and a Day wherever you get your podcasts so you never miss an episode.For legal assistance in North Carolina, contact Gailor Hunt at divorceistough.com.While the information presented is intended to provide you with general information to navigate divorce without destruction, this podcast is not legal advice. This information is specific to the law in North Carolina. If you have any questions before taking action, consult an attorney who is licensed in your state.

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Finding Your Niche as a Paralegal, with Michelle Morales

Justice Team Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 4, 2026 30:05

This week on the Justice Team Podcast, Mikaela chats with one of the Justice Team's newest paralegals, Michelle Morales! Tune in to hear about her career, the power of mentorship in the workplace, and how Michelle found the area of law that she was most passionate about. Attorney Share lets you turn cases you can't take into revenue for your firm. You can sign up now for a free account at www.attorneyshare.com! Justice HQ community subscriptions are open to all starting at $20 a month. Go to www.justicehq.com or download the mobile app today! Have a legal need or question? Call our law firm, the Justice Team at 844-THE-TEAM, or visit justiceteam.com!

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A Paralegal's Honest Talk with Law Firm Owners

The Maximum Lawyer Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later May 26, 2026 39:27

Watch the YouTube version of this episode HEREIn this episode, Tyson interviews paralegal Haley Binkowski to talk about what law firm owners are really getting wrong behind the scenes, and what to do instead. Haley pulls back the curtain on how overpromising to clients, poor communication, and constant “progress” without proper implementation can create chaos and burnout for your team.She shares how boundaries with both clients and attorneys protect quality work, why overreliance on call transcripts and AI summaries is causing a “time tax,” and how half‑implemented tools drain productivity instead of saving it. Haley also walks through the training gaps she's lived through, how she's building a multi‑media training system, and why regular check‑ins and game‑planning with your A‑players matter more than you think.They wrap by tackling uncomfortable truths: relying too heavily on one superstar, letting C‑players linger, and how an owner's mental health and pace directly spill over into every person in the firm. If you want your team to stay, grow, and actually like working with you, this episode is required listening.In this episode, you'll learn:How overpromising timelines to clients quietly creates stress, mistakes, and resentment on your team.Why overreliance on call transcripts and AI summaries is adding a “time tax” instead of saving time and what to do instead.How to stop drowning your staff in half‑implemented tools and start rolling out tech with real training and ownership.What great training looks like from a paralegal's perspective, including multi‑media SOPs and in‑the‑flow tooltips.How A‑players experience C‑players, and why failing to address underperformance pushes your best people out.Simple ways to transfer authority from attorney to staff so clients respect and communicate with non‑lawyer team members.The check‑in rhythms and conversations that make team members feel heard, supported, and willing to speak up before they burn out.The uncomfortable truth about your mental health as an owner and why you need to slow down if you want a stable, high‑performing firm.Highlights00:00 – Why Tyson wanted a paralegal to call out law firm owners00:54 – The number one thing: healthy boundaries with clients and attorneys02:59 – Over‑promising, “time tax,” and overreliance on call transcripts07:16 – New tech, tool overload, and half‑implemented systems09:29 – How to actually roll out and adopt new tools with the team10:42 – Getting real feedback from the people using tools every day12:02 – Shiny objects, duplicate tools, and wasted subscription spend13:51 – The training disaster: moving from estate planning to probate15:39 – Building ideal training: docs, visuals, and click‑by‑click videos17:16 – In‑the‑flow training: tooltips and instructions where work happens19:03 – Boundary violations: after‑hours asks and “just one more favor”22:24 – Capacity, marbles in the cup, and reassigning work25:21 – A‑players, C‑players, and the cost of not acting26:47 – What makes great employees feel respected and valued29:02 – Letting paralegals help design the game plan29:56 – Why good people still leave good firms31:26 – Transferring authority so clients respect non‑lawyer staff33:32 – What owners should start doing in the next 30 days34:59 – What owners should stop doing immediately36:01 – The one thing owners don't want to hear: slow down

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This Paralegal Book Title Makes People Uncomfortable

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Play Episode Listen Later May 13, 2026 27:33

Paralegals have monetizable expertise that can be leveraged through ownership, consulting, fractional support for law firms, education, digital products, agencies, and legal process outsourcing, but the profession has been conditioned to think only in terms of employment income caps.

Trial Tips Every Litigation Paralegal Should Steal From a Hot Seat Pro

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Play Episode Listen Later May 12, 2026 59:58

What really happens in the hot seat when everything goes wrong? In this episode, Ann sits down with Anthony "Tony" Castro, owner of Lit Trial Paralegal Services and one of South Florida's go-to trial tech specialists, to swap real trial stories and uncover the five tips every litigation paralegal needs in their back pocket. Tony's path into the legal industry is anything but traditional. He started behind the counter at Starbucks, took a chance on a law firm runner position at 18, and worked his way up through paralegal assistant, paralegal, and litigation support specialist roles before launching his own business two years ago. Now he provides white-glove trial support to solo attorneys and small firms across Florida. In this conversation, Ann and Tony share the kinds of stories you only hear from people who have actually been there. From war rooms that had to be rebuilt three times to a courtroom moment when nobody noticed the court reporter was missing for 45 minutes, this episode is part storytelling, part trial education, and 100 percent the kind of episode every litigation paralegal will want to bookmark. In This Episode, You'll Hear: How Tony went from cleaning the Starbucks condiment bar to running his own trial support business Why a paralegal background makes for a better trial technician The hotel war room emergency that gives you one specific question before booking it The court reporter lesson every trial paralegal needs to hear (and how Tony solved it on the fly) How Tony became known as "Tony the Trial Tiger" Tony's 5 tips for thriving as a trial paralegal The favorite and least favorite parts of trial life for both Ann and Tony

Building a Tech-Forward Law Firm with a Strong Culture

The Managing Partners Podcast: Law Firm Business Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later May 7, 2026 40:01

This episode explores how law firm owners can leverage technology and cultivate a strong culture to grow successfully in a competitive, remote-enabled environment.Kevin Daisy hosts Michael Cohan, a tech-forward personal injury lawyer from New York, who shares his journey of building a virtual practice from scratch. His insights emphasize the importance of hiring responsible, high-performing team members and creating systems to sustain a profitable, efficient firm.In this episode, you'll learn: The benefits of hiring A-players to prevent performance issues Strategies for building and maintaining a strong, positive culture The role of technology and AI in streamlining operations How remote work can be effective with the right team and processes Key practices for scalable growth and ongoing innovationThis episode offers practical leadership lessons on managing growth through people, culture, and technology, crucial for law firm owners aiming for long-term success. Today's episode is sponsored by The Managing Partners Mastermind. Click here to schedule an interview to see if we're a fit. Chapters (00:00:00) - You're More Than a Law Firm Leader: Managing Partners Podcast(00:00:41) - Managing Partners Podcast(00:03:32) - Culture of the Business(00:09:05) - Will Law Firms Move to Technology?(00:11:18) - Top Law Firm Executives on Growth(00:15:51) - Are Gen Z's Difficult to Keep Up?(00:22:02) - Paralegal on Job Search(00:26:42) - The Structure of a Successful Firm(00:30:23) - Personal Injury Firm's Goal for 2026(00:36:49) - Michael Cohen On Hiring The Right People

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Do You Have Enough Experience to Start a Paralegal Business? (You Might Be Surprised)

Play Episode Listen Later May 5, 2026 20:05

Do you really need “more experience” before starting a paralegal business… or is that just the story you've been telling yourself?JOIN THE PARALEGALS IN BUSINESS SOCIETY[FREE] PARALEGAL BUSINESS RATE & REVENUE ESTIMATOR TOOL[BOOK] PARALEGALS SHOULD BE MILLIONAIRES CONNECT WITH ME:LINKEDINTIKTOKINSTAGRAMFACEBOOK PAGEFACEBOOK GROUPWATCH ON YOUTUBEDo you really need “more experience” before starting a paralegal business… or is that just the story you've been telling yourself?In this episode of the Paralegal Business Podcast, I'm unpacking one of the most common questions I get—and sharing a personal story that completely reshaped how I think about experience, confidence, and what it actually takes to build something of your own.If you've ever felt like:You're not “ready” yetYou don't have the right backgroundOr you're waiting for one more sign before starting…This conversation is for you.We're diving into what actually matters when it comes to building a paralegal business, how to think about your skills differently, and why the traditional “years of experience” mindset might be holding you back more than helping you.And if you've been quietly wondering whether this path is even possible for you… this episode might just shift everything.00:00 Biggest question00:23 Paralegal Interview Story04:25 Subcontracting08:00 Magic Years of Experience08:32 Pick Your Service Lane11:12 LPO Proof and Trends12:58 Imposter Syndrome Trap15:14 First Client Panic17:55 Start Before Ready18:22 Join the Society19:56 Final Thanks and Wrap

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How to Build a Paralegal Business in Criminal Law Working With Attorneys | Corrin Swintosky

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Play Episode Listen Later Apr 29, 2026 36:44

JOIN THE PARALEGALS IN BUSINESS SOCIETY[FREE] PARALEGAL BUSINESS RATE & REVENUE ESTIMATOR TOOL[BOOK] PARALEGALS SHOULD BE MILLIONAIRES CORRIN'S CRIMINAL DEFENSE RESOURCE LIBRARYABOUT LUCID LEGAL SUPPORTCONNECT WITH CORRIN ON LINKEDINLINKEDINTIKTOKINSTAGRAMFACEBOOK PAGEFACEBOOK GROUPWATCH ON YOUTUBEJaclyn Foster interviews Corrin Swintosky on the Paralegal Business Podcast about her nontraditional path into criminal law and how she built a freelance paralegal business and scaled Lucid Legal Support. Corrin shares moving from probation officer to Minnesota criminal court clerk, earning a paralegal certificate, and working in a public defender's office before starting freelancing in 2023, initially using Upwork and then forming an LLC after taking Jaclyn's courses. She explains how she found early clients through existing contacts, including a solo attorney and a Minnesota nonprofit focused on post-conviction relief, and how raising rates helped her attract more specialized criminal defense firms. They discuss pricing with monthly or quarterly retainers, experimenting with flat-fee project work, and the importance of LinkedIn content, delegation with a VA, and building systems to scale. Corrin outlines her tech stack (Microsoft 365, Planner, OneDrive/SharePoint) and a platform called Leverage Grow to manage digital products, including a criminal defense resource library.00:00 Corinne's Path to Criminal Law02:17 Going Freelance and Leaving Upwork05:04 Criminal Niche and Ideal Clients10:52 Pricing Models Retainers vs Flat Fee15:16 LinkedIn Authority and Content Rhythm23:24 Delegation and Building a Team27:32 Systems and Tools for Operations29:04 Digital Products and Teaching Others31:57 Advice for Aspiring Paralegal Owners35:56 Wrap Up and Where to Follow

MJ Paralegal At Law

The Twitch and MJ Podcast Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 24, 2026 4:24

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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The Frank MacKay Show - Erin Brockovich

Breaking It Down with Frank MacKay

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 22, 2026 10:50

Paralegal, consumer advocate and environmental activist Erin Brockovich joins Frank Mackay on this episode of The Frank Mackay Show!

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Still Showing Up: One Paralegal's Story of Purpose, Passion, and ALS

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 14, 2026 23:58

In this deeply moving and unique conversation, Ann shares the story of Tina Johnson—a career paralegal, mentor, leader, and advocate who was diagnosed with ALS in 2024. Because Tina has lost her ability to speak, every answer in this episode was written by her, by hand, and is read aloud so her voice can still be heard. Inside this episode, you'll hear: ✔️ How Tina found her calling in the paralegal profession ✔️ The emotional and professional impact of losing the ability to communicate ✔️ The strength it takes to keep showing up in the face of uncertainty ✔️ How the paralegal community has rallied around her ✔️ What Tina wants her legacy and her message to be. This episode is a reminder of why this profession matters and how powerful one voice can be—even when it can no longer be spoken. If this conversation moves you, please consider supporting Tina and her family through the GoFundMe: https://gofund.me/fac4d97f9 For all our paralegal podcast episodes: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com

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The Secret Sauce to Paralegal Business Success (It's Not What You Think)

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Play Episode Listen Later Mar 31, 2026 37:42

JOIN THE PARALEGALS IN BUSINESS SOCIETY: https://www.jaclynfoster.com/The Secret Sauce to Paralegal Business Success (It's Not What You Think)What actually works when it comes to getting clients as a freelance paralegal in business?In this episode, Jaclyn Foster breaks down the real strategies paralegals are using to land clients, build momentum, and grow sustainable businesses—without relying on one “magic” method.From LinkedIn and referrals to conferences, outreach, and long-term visibility, this conversation explores how different approaches can work depending on your strengths, your niche, and how you position your value.If you've been wondering:How to get your first (or next) clientWhat marketing strategies actually work in the legal industryHow to stand out as a freelance paralegalWhy some paralegals grow faster than othersThis episode will give you a clearer way to think about it—without the fluff.Whether you're just starting your freelance paralegal business or trying to scale what you've already built, this is a grounded look at what it really takes to grow.00:00 Chasing the Secret Sauce05:07 Client Acquisition Examples10:58 Value First Foundation17:54 Short-Term vs Long-Term Marketing21:16 High Trust and Referrals22:57 The Real Secret Sauce27:01 Find Your Rhythm and Plan34:39 Paralegals Business Society

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Episode 313 Michelle Montone- A Conversation overheard in a hair studio that changed her life forever.

The Fasting Highway

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 29, 2026 51:20

My story- I am a 44-year-old mom of 2 boys (ages 8&11) and wife to my wonderful husband for 14 years. We live in Lake Mary, FL (a suburb of Orlando). At the moment, I am a part-time Trainer at my gym. From 2022-2024, I had a podcast (Fast & Fabulous) & coached others to become Intermittent Fasters as well (still dabble in this from time to time)! Before having kids I was Paralegal for 15 years. I started yo-yo dieting around age 16. Since then, I have struggled with my weight. In college, instead of the “freshman 15”, I gained about 40lbs….When I graduated, I lost it by working out 7 days a week, calorie counting and depriving myself constantly. I didn't eat meat, carbs, or sugar, and honestly, I was miserable. Before having kids, I was a paralegal for 15 years. I maintained (not so effortlessly) a healthy weight for about 4 years until I got married at age 30. This is when the weight started to pile on. I finally found comfort in a man who loved me for me, the comfort of marriage set in, and before I knew it, I put on about 20lbs. Then I became pregnant with our first son in 2014 and gained a good 60lbs, lost it all rather quickly after giving birth but this time by joining a weight loss MLM (so embarrassed of this!) and using supplements and body wraps…hundreds of dollars a month to sustain, and I lost only around 10lbs over the next THREE years! Fast forward to 2016-17 – I was pregnant now with my second son. I was gaining just like the first time, but at 28 weeks, I was diagnosed with gestational diabetes. Because I had to follow an extremely strict diet to control my blood sugar, I didn't end up gaining as much. It was what came in the next 2 years that was the worst. I tried to go back to work (I am NOT the stay-at-home type) when my youngest was 7 months old. It was an absolute disaster. My husband got a big promotion 9 months later, and I was forced to quit my job and stay home with an infant and a 3-year-old in a town we had just moved to. I fell into a horrible depression and developed a pretty nasty sugar addiction...you know the kind, when you're eating an entire bag of candy in hiding, trying to cover up the wrappers in the trash. I ate ultra-processed food constantly… fast food, cheeseburgers, and fries were at least a weekly occurrence. Over those 2 years, I gained another 25(ish) lbs. I am 5'3” and my highest weight was around 200lbs...although I'm not 100% as I never weighed myself.I remember weighing 191 at a doctor's appointment in January 2020 (right before I started fasting). So many health issues started piling up at this point...I lived at the doctor's office, but none could give me any answers....and not ONE mentioned weight loss, diet or lifestyle. I tried everything to lose this weight...I would lose 5-6lbs then it would come right back. This went on for a while before I accepted that this is who I was now and that I would be unhealthy and miserable. An old friend of mine had been telling me about IF for about a year at this point. I thought he was NUTS. How could anyone not eat for 16-20 hours?! I was someone who carried snacks in my purse long before I had kids because I was taught to keep your metabolism going, you should eat 6 times a day! Fast forward to January 2020...I'm getting my hair done and overhear the client next to me chatting about how she lost 30lbs doing IF. I went home that day and began researching. A friend of mine invited me to Gin Stephen's Delay Don't Deny FB support group, where I lingered for about a week before deciding to start 1/24/20 and have been clean fasting every day since. I LOVE sharing this freedom and occasionally still take clients, so the links for my socials are below ☺ h ps://www.instagram.com/mrs_shellee81?igsh=dGR5bTN0dzRvZmlo&utm_source=qr www. ktok,com/@mrsshelle0? Join Graemes' Patreon and stay accountable. www.patreon.com/thefastinghighwayWebsitewww.thefastinghighway.com.

Understanding the Intersection of Wellness, Mindfulness, and Tech | The Paralegal Voice

Legal Talk Network - Law News and Legal Topics

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 27, 2026 54:40

In this jam-packed episode, host Tony Sipp welcomes four outstanding paralegal professionals and educators to share tips on balancing mindfulness, wellness, and self-care in today's world of rapid tech advancements. If it seems like the profession is bolting forward at light speed, you're not wrong. It's important to take care of yourself. Let tech work for you, not wear you down. At times, you need to plug back into yourself before you plug into the latest technology. With a race to incorporate that latest in AI, it is important to keep learning, but also to learn how to embrace “the power of the pause,” taking a moment to step back. Don't just survive, thrive! Mentioned in This Episode: American Association for Paralegal Education (AAfPE) AAfPE Legal Luminaries podcast Paralegals on Fire podcast Adam Grant, speaker Los Angeles Paralegal Association NALA, The Paralegal Association NALA Conference & Expo 2026 Subscribe to The Paralegal Voice: https://play.megaphone.fm/sq1e-saoq6ga2fue1-y_qw Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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Defense Paralegal to Trial Support Entrepreneur: Anthony Castro with Lit-Trial Paralegal Services

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 25, 2026 43:10

Join The Paralegals in Business Society: https://www.jaclynfoster.com/Lit-Trial Paralegal Services: https://www.lit-trialparalegals.com/Connect with Anthony Castro on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mranthonycastro/Jaclyn Foster hosts the Paralegal Business podcast and interviews Anthony, a former defense paralegal who built a hybrid skillset in trial work and “hot seating” (managing courtroom technology and trial presentation, exhibits, video clips, graphics, and equipment) while also functioning as a trial paralegal for litigation firms. Inspired by Jaclyn's course, now known as The Paralegals in Business Society, Anthony started Lit Trial Paralegal Services in late 2024, made the leap with no clients while supporting his family and using an insurance inspection side hustle, then gained clients through referrals and LinkedIn by focusing on personal branding rather than constant selling. He now primarily focuses on pretrial and trial prep and emphasizes patience, consistency, and “bet on yourself” for paralegals considering business ownership.01:59 Anthony Career Origins06:13 What Hot Seating Means08:24 Launching Lit Trial Paralegals12:57 First Clients and Momentum19:50 Niche Focus and Scaling Plans24:02 Specialized Team Layers24:58 Personal Branding Wins29:41 Scaling With Subcontractors32:44 Flexibility And Family Time35:00 Bet On Yourself Advice37:46 Whoosh Effect Momentum41:03 Join The Membership

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4 Myths About Starting a Paralegal Business (that need to be unalived)

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 18, 2026 50:46

Want help designing your own paralegal business?Inside The Paralegals in Business Society, Jaclyn helps paralegals map out scalable business models aligned with their strengths, skills, and ideal attorney clients. Join here: https://www.jaclynfoster.com/Episode referenced: • 4 Reasons Paralegals Don't Start Their Own... In this episode, Jaclyn Foster tackles four of the most common myths circulating in the legal industry about starting a paralegal business.As more paralegals explore freelancing, contracting, and entrepreneurship, new conversations are emerging about what's actually possible in this profession. While many of those conversations are empowering and forward-thinking, some narratives still attempt to push paralegals back into the idea that their skills only have value inside traditional employment.In this episode, Jaclyn breaks down the facts and challenges four persistent myths about paralegal entrepreneurship, including:• The claim that paralegals can't realistically earn six figures in business• The idea that paralegal skills can't be turned into a legitimate independent service• The belief that you need a 10–20 year network before you can start a business• The argument that offshore labor and AI will eliminate the market for U.S. paralegalsDrawing from her experience building a six-figure freelance paralegal business and scaling it into a half-million-dollar agency, Jaclyn walks through the actual economics, market realities, and professional opportunities that exist for paralegals today.This episode isn't about saying every paralegal should start a business. It's about making sure paralegals understand they have options — and that those options shouldn't be dismissed by limiting beliefs or outdated assumptions.If you've ever wondered whether starting a paralegal business is realistic, this conversation will give you a clearer look at the math, the market, and what's really happening in the legal industry.⁠00:00⁠ Intro⁠04:30⁠ Earning potential⁠15:04⁠ Paralegal skills aren't marketable⁠22:17⁠ You need 20 yrs connections⁠34:32⁠ Offshore and AI Will Replace U.S. Paralegals⁠43:52⁠ Be Careful Whose Opinions You Consume⁠48:24⁠ The Paralegals in Business Society

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How This Paralegal Scaled a Fractional CFO Business | Leah Miller and Firmly Profits

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 11, 2026 19:16

Join The Paralegals in Business Society: https://www.jaclynfoster.com/Visit Firmly Profits: https://firmlyprofits.com/Connect with Leah Miller on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leahlnmfinancial/From Paralegal to Fractional CFO: Leah Miller on Building Firmly Profits & Scaling a Law-Firm Finance BusinessJaclyn Foster shares a teaser from an hour-long interview with guest expert Leah Miller inside the Paralegals in Business Society, highlighting Leah's path from legal assistant to paralegal, then law firm administrator/CFO, and finally founder of Firmly Profits providing bookkeeping and fractional CFO services to law firms. Leah explains she started her business incrementally in early 2023 while employed, then left her firm sooner than planned, rebuilt her former base salary by October 2023, and ultimately surpassed six figures, enabling her husband to quit his job in 2024. She credits LinkedIn networking, education, and podcast guesting—without cold pitching—for client growth, and discusses hiring first through contractors, using Profit First-style planning, and setting financial thresholds for staffing. 00:00 Podcast Teaser Intro01:27 Meet Leah Miller02:01 From Paralegal to CFO03:30 Leaving the Day Job05:37 Finding First Clients08:29 Growth and Reality Check11:34 When to Hire Help13:36 Profit Planning to Scale17:35 Join the Society

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JOIN THE PARALEGALS IN BUSINESS SOCIETYLEARN MORE ABOUT BRANDY BARNES AND VIRTU LEGAL SOLUTIONSCONNECT WITH BRANDY ON LINKEDINJaclyn Foster interviews Brandy Barnes of Virtu Legal Solutions on The Paralegal Business Podcast about her transition from a 9–5 paralegal job to business ownership after being unable to attend her child's field trip and later being unexpectedly fired as an at-will employee. Brandy shares how she wrestled with leaving a secure paralegal job, realized she had built her identity around her position, and then used Jaclyn's paralegal business course to start her business, refine her “North Star” client, and learn that taking any paying client can be draining. She explains how she noticed a recurring client pain point—overwhelming discovery—and developed a streamlined, repeatable process that evolved into a productized, flat-fee service managing family law discovery, supported by a team of senior paralegals. The episode covers the benefits of niching, scalability, and getting early clients through consistent LinkedIn posting, direct engagement, and word-of-mouth referrals, along with the importance of visibility in a high-trust legal industry. Brandy encourages paralegals to act on persistent gut feelings, get out of their comfort zone, and “just do it,” while Jaclyn highlights safer, incremental ways to transition and invites listeners to join the Paralegals in Business Society and its 21-day business design pathway.00:00 Paralegals in Business Society01:57 Brandy's Business Origin Story09:20 North Star Client Lessons15:19 Refining the Ideal Client17:59 Discovery Becomes the Niche23:53 Flat Fee Profit Model25:09 Niche Clarity Wins29:12 Landing First Clients32:19 LinkedIn Virality Myth39:08 Thinking about starting a business? Brandy's advice42:18 Job Security Reality44:55 Wrap Up And Invite to Paralegals in Business Society

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When to Hire a Paralegal for Divorce | Los Angeles Divorce

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Play Episode Listen Later Feb 23, 2026 0:29

Remote Paralegal Divorce Services | Los Angeles Divorce

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Play Episode Listen Later Feb 21, 2026 0:29

Finding a Paralegal Mentor

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Play Episode Listen Later Feb 17, 2026 14:48

Episode Summary: Finding a Mentor You Can Trust — Part 8 of the Paralegal Survival Toolkit In the final episode of the Paralegal Survival Toolkit series, Ann Pearson breaks down one of the most overlooked career accelerators for paralegals: finding the right mentor. Get the companion workbook here. Ann clarifies that a mentor isn't someone who magically teaches you everything overnight — it's someone who becomes part of your "survival kit," helping you navigate the unwritten rules of a firm, the invisible expectations no one explains during onboarding, and the people-side of the profession that can make or break your first few years. Ann explains how the right mentor can speed up your learning curve, boost confidence, provide a safe place to ask "embarrassing" questions, and help you avoid common career landmines like suffering in silence or reinventing workflows that have already been solved. But she also emphasizes that mentorship only works when you're selective: the wrong mentor can be worse than no mentor at all. Ann also covers the mentee's responsibility: being coachable, respecting the mentor's time, showing effort before asking for help, taking notes, applying guidance, and protecting the relationship with integrity. Finally, for listeners who don't have a formal mentoring program (or were assigned someone who isn't truly supportive), Ann encourages building informal mentorship through conversations, coffee chats, and mutual value — because it's your career, and you don't have to build it alone. Key Takeaways: The right mentor speeds up learning and reduces mistakes Mentors help you avoid "career landmines" like staying silent when overwhelmed, assuming you should figure everything out alone, or reinventing processes. Choose carefully — the wrong mentor isn't worth it A poor mentor wastes time and can do more harm than good. If your "mentor" is just an onboarding checkbox, you may need to seek mentorship elsewhere. Look for character and judgment, not just skill A strong mentor is generous with knowledge, remembers what it's like to be new, stays calm under pressure, models professionalism, and avoids gossip and toxicity. Mentorship is a two-way relationship Be coachable, avoid constant "yeah-but" responses, respect their time, come with specific questions, show effort, and apply what you learn. No formal program? Build informal mentorship Start with coffee or lunch, ask thoughtful questions over time, and offer value in return (help on projects, support where appropriate). Mentorship can evolve naturally. Get more free paralegal resources: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/paralegal-resources For all of our paralegal podcast episodes: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/

Paralegal to Training Consultant with Marisa Rua

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Play Episode Listen Later Feb 17, 2026 39:07

JOIN THE PARALEGALS IN BUSINESS SOCIETY Connect with Marisa to learn more about Para Era and Best Era! In this episode of the Paralegal Business Podcast, I sit down with Marisa Rua, a paralegal training consultant and co-founder of Para Era, to talk about how she turned a real problem inside law firms into a thriving business.If you've ever wondered whether you can start a paralegal business, build a freelance paralegal career, or create a consulting offer without 10+ years of experience — this conversation is for you.We dive into:• The massive training gap inside law firms• Why attorneys struggle to properly train paralegals• How paralegals can build authority and grow a professional brand• The evolution of the paralegal career path• Why you don't need permission (or decades of experience) to start• How solving one clear problem can turn into a profitable consulting businessMarisa shares how she went from receptionist to paralegal to lead trainer — and ultimately co-founding a business that now supports paralegals and law firms nationwide.This episode is proof that the legal industry is shifting. Paralegals are no longer limited to traditional roles. Whether you want to start a freelance paralegal business, build a paralegal training program, or design a consulting practice, the opportunity is there if you're willing to identify the problem and become the solution.If you're serious about building your own paralegal business with structure and support, join us inside the Paralegals in Business Society (PIBS). It's designed to help you create freedom, better income, and a career that actually fits your life — without pressure to leap before you're ready.- Jaclyn Foster, Founder: Paralegals in Business

When to Hire a Paralegal for Divorce | Los Angeles Divorce

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 16, 2026 0:31

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Remote Paralegal Divorce Services | Los Angeles Divorce

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 8, 2026 0:38

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76. 750k Paralegal Business with Heather Gardner

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 4, 2026 14:14

Join the Paralegals in Business Society: https://www.jaclynfoster.com/Propel Paralegal Services founder, Heather Gardner shares her strategy and successJoin us in this episode of the Paralegals in Business Podcast as host Jaclyn Foster sits down with Heather Gardner, founder of Propel Paralegal Services. Heather shares her journey of growing her niche-focused paralegal business to $750,000 in just four years by specializing providing bankruptcy support to attorneys across the United States. The discussion highlights the importance of identifying an Ideal Client Persona (ICP), leveraging networking opportunities, and adapting to industry shifts. Jaclyn and Heather also talk about the crucial first steps, challenges, and strategies for acquiring initial clients. Get insightful tips on managing a paralegal business, networking effectively, and avoiding burnout. Don't miss Heather's inspirational story and actionable advice for budding paralegal entrepreneurs. Join the Paralegals in Business Society for more invaluable resources, support, and networking opportunities: https://www.jaclynfoster.com/00:00 Introduction: Building a Successful Business01:20 Heather Gardner's Journey to Success02:47 Starting a Paralegal Business04:21 Heather's Personal Story and Business Evolution07:53 Challenges and Growth in the Early Days11:59 Networking and Collaboration13:31 Conclusion and Invitation to Join the Society

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When to Hire a Paralegal for Divorce | Los Angeles Divorce

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Play Episode Listen Later Jan 30, 2026 0:43

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Never Commit to a Paralegal Again | Episode # 308 with Rashida Forbes

Spaghetti on the Wall

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 21, 2026 11:08

What if your law firm could get expert paralegal support—without long-term contracts or full-time overhead? In this episode of Spaghetti on the Wall, Rashida Forbes breaks down the fractional paralegal model and how flexible, project-based legal support can cut costs, improve efficiency, and give attorneys back control. If you're ready to rethink how you staff your firm, this conversation is a must-watch.

How to Earn Respect Faster, Part 5 of the Paralegal Survival Series

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Play Episode Listen Later Jan 13, 2026 17:04

Episode Summary: How to Earn Respect Faster — Part 5 of the Paralegal Survival Toolkit In this episode of the Paralegal Coach Podcast, Ann Pearson returns to the Paralegal Survival Toolkit series with a topic that resonates deeply with paralegals at every stage of their career: earning respect in the legal workplace. Ann acknowledges a reality many paralegals experience, especially early on — feeling overlooked, undervalued, or treated as "just the assistant." Drawing from years of industry insight and paralegal feedback, she reframes respect not as something granted by title or tenure, but as a skill set that can be learned and practiced. To make this actionable, Ann introduces a practical framework built around the word R-E-S-P-E-C-T, outlining seven behaviors that help paralegals move from overlooked to trusted. From delivering consistent results and building credibility in small moments, to taking initiative, preparing thoroughly, and communicating wins, Ann shows how respect is earned through visible, repeatable actions — not waiting to be noticed. Throughout the episode, Ann emphasizes that attorneys are trained to look for evidence. Paralegals who want respect must show it through reliability, ownership, and confidence in how they approach their work. She also challenges listeners to take ownership not just of their tasks, but of their careers, encouraging proactive feedback conversations instead of waiting for annual earning respect at work, paralegal professionalism, building credibility, workplace respect, paralegal career growth, paralegal confidence, initiative at work, communication skills, ownership mindset, professional boundaries, working with attorneys, law firm culture, legal workplace communication, attorney-paralegal relationships, Paralegal Survival Toolkit, Paralegal Coach Podcast, paralegal career advice, legal professional development reviews. Key Takeaways: Respect is a skill, not a personality trait Feeling overlooked is common, especially early in a paralegal career - but respect can be built intentionally through behavior and consistency. Micro-moments matter more than big wins Respect is built in everyday actions: clean drafts, clear updates, anticipating next steps - not just in rare, high-profile moments like trials or closings. Ownership earns trust Taking responsibility, following up, addressing issues early, and bringing solutions strengthens trust and professional respect. You must own your career, not wait for validation Respect doesn't arrive on its own. Asking for feedback, setting standards, and proactively improving your performance puts you in control of your professional growth. Get more free paralegal resources: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/paralegal-resources For all of our paralegal podcast episodes: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/

How to Talk About…Everything

The Wake Up Call for Lawyers

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 9, 2026 20:17 Transcription Available

Happy New Year. I wasn't sad to say goodbye to 2025, but I'd say 2026 isn't starting off with any fewer challenges. Challenges or no challenges, though, we can set our personal tone. How about 2026 for a tone of kindness? What if we commit to talk, write, and post, one-on-one or to our ten million followers (or 460, in my case), without causing harm, or lying, or being unkind?I don't know what if – what happens if we do that. But let's try it. It won't be too hard because probably most of us are being kind already. For those who are, and also for those who aren't, may you be safe in 2026. May 2026 be a year of kindness and safety and ease for all.

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

The Paralegal Voice

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 8, 2026 33:33

Once you've landed your first job as a paralegal professional, what next? How do you build your career, advance into management, and leverage affiliations and activities within local and national associations as you pursue your goals? Guest Angela King is a successful paralegal manager at the national law firm of Katten Muchin Rosenman LLP. Over more than two decades, she has advanced from a law firm volunteer to a file clerk to legal assistant, then paralegal professional, and now paralegal manager at a national law firm overseeing dozens of paralegal professionals. At each step, being active with paralegal associations helped her advance her skills and network. It starts with learning, and it extends to helping and mentoring. King explores how a conscious push to improve and learn at every stage built her career and how you can create your own path to professional success. Mentioned in This Episode: National Capital Area Paralegals Association National Federal of Paralegal Association IPMA, International Practice Management Association IPMA Conference and Expo Los Angeles Paralegal Association NALA, The Paralegal Association NALA Conference & Expo 2026 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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The Communication Skill That Saves Paralegal Careers

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Play Episode Listen Later Dec 23, 2025 13:39

Episode Summary: In this episode of the Paralegal Coach Podcast, Ann Pearson continues her Paralegal Survival Toolkit series with a skill she calls career-saving: courageous communication. Ann explains why silence, while tempting, is the most expensive mistake a paralegal can make. Drawing from a powerful real-world story from her time as a paralegal manager, she illustrates how two capable paralegals nearly derailed a major arbitration and their own careers, simply by not asking for help soon enough. As part of the larger Paralegal Survival Toolkit, this episode reinforces a core message: while legal work will always be complex and demanding, paralegals who communicate early become the calm, trusted center of even the most chaotic cases. Get a copy of the 40-page companion guide to the Paralegal Survival Toolkit Series here. Get more free paralegal resources: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/paralegal-resources For all of our paralegal podcast episodes: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/

Paralegal offering pro bono services to first-time offenders arrested for stealing groceries, Good or Bad, Jeramy J. Silverstein chats with Alex Pierson.

ON Point with Alex Pierson

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 16, 2025 11:26

Paralegal offering pro bono services to first-time offenders arrested for stealing groceries, Good or Bad, Jeramy J. Silverstein chats with Alex Pierson. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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Paralegal to Podcasting Pro: How Fran Stone Built “9 to 5 Mom with a Pod” While Raising a Toddler | #227

Second Act Success

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 15, 2025 31:36

What if you could start a profitable podcast and personal brand before you ever quit your 9–5?In this inspiring episode of the Second Act Success podcast, Shannon Russell talks with Francesca (Fran) Stone, founder of 9 to 5 Mom with a Pod—a podcast and consulting platform that helps mom content creators launch personal brands and grow with purpose.Fran shares how her winding career path—from talent agent to paralegal—gave her the business, sales, and people skills she now uses as a full-time entrepreneur. After becoming a mom, she realized her demanding legal career no longer fit the life she wanted, so she started her podcast as a side hustle, monetized it through consulting and affiliates (not sponsorships!), and eventually quit her job to work for herself… all while caring for her toddler at home.If you're a mom who dreams of starting a podcast, growing a brand, or leaving your 9–5 to work online, this conversation will show you what's possible—without a massive audience or going viral.Key Takeaways:Every job prepares you for entrepreneurship How Fran's past roles in admin, accounts receivable, talent representation, and law all gave her skills she now uses in branding, sales, and running her business.Building a business while still in your 9–5 How she tested her idea, validated demand, and stacked part-time income before quitting her job, plus what she put in place financially to make the leap.Running a business with a toddler at home Real talk on routines, support from her husband, working in focused 20-minute pockets, and swapping scroll time for CEO time.You don't need to go viral to make money Fran proves you can monetize with around 2,000 followers if you have a strong brand, clear offers, and a nurtured audience.SHOW NOTES:https://secondactsuccess.co/227Connect with Francheska Stone:https://9to5momwithapod.com/https://9to5momwithapod.com/podcast-episodes/Tell us what you think and what you want to hear on the podcast!You are listening to the Top 2% globally ranked podcast Second Act Success!CONTACT Shannon and share your feedback about what you'd like to hear on the podcast! https://secondactsuccess.co/contact Book a FREE Strategy Call with host and business coach Shannon Russell - https://www.calendly.com/second-act-success/coaching-strategyWork with Shannonhttps://secondactsuccess.co/coaching FREE Resourceshttps://secondactsuccess.co/resources READ Shannon's Book - Start Your Second Act: How to Change Careers, Launch a Business, and Create Your Best Life https://startyoursecondact.com. LISTEN to the How To Quit Your Job and Start A Business Podcast! https://secondactsuccess.co/listenLET'S CONNECT!Instagram - https://instagram.com/secondactsuccessLinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannonrussellcoach *Want to be a guest on Second Act Success Podcast? Send Shannon Russell a message on PodMatch,...

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Paralegal Survival Toolkit - a Series