Podcasts about steve fretzin

In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Claire Parsons discuss:Integrating mindfulness into high-pressure professional environmentsNavigating mental health challenges while maintaining demanding careersRethinking traditional views on business development for introvertsBuilding emotional resilience and clarity through intentional daily practices Key Takeaways:Starting with just one minute of daily meditation can create subtle but lasting shifts in emotional regulation, clarity, and resilience under pressure.Mindfulness doesn't eliminate stress but reshapes how it's processed, making space for more grounded decisions and healthier coping habits.Emotional regulation skills gained through meditation reduce fear of rejection, making business development feel less risky and more authentic.Practices like breathwork, body scans, and loving-kindness help professionals stay centered during conflict, reconnect with purpose, and act from intention rather than reactivity. "A lot of law practice involves a gut check… and you have to consistently check in with your values to make sure you're representing your client as best you can." —  Claire Parsons Unlock the secrets of the industry's top rainmakers with Be That Lawyer: 101 Top Rainmakers' Secrets to Growing a Successful Law Practice. Grab your ultimate guide to building a thriving law firm now on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F78HXJHT Thank you to our Sponsors!Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/ Ready to grow your law practice without selling or chasing? Book your free 30-minute strategy session now—let's make this your breakout year: https://fretzin.com/ About Claire Parsons: Claire E. Parsons is a Cincinnati-based attorney practicing in school law, employment law, and litigation. In addition to her legal work, she teaches mindfulness and compassion to lawyers and professionals and frequently shares her insights on these topics through her blog, Brilliant Legal Mind, and her published books. Claire draws on both personal experience and formal training to make mindfulness practices accessible, practical, and effective for busy professionals. Her work blends deep legal expertise with a commitment to well-being, helping others find clarity and resilience in high-pressure environments. Connect with Claire Parsons:  Website: https://brilliantlegalmind.com/ & https://www.brickergraydon.com/team/claire-parsonsBook: How to Be a Badass Lawyer: https://www.amazon.com/How-Badass-Lawyer-Development-Mindfulness/dp/B0BLQYNBXZLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/claireeparsons/ & https://www.linkedin.com/company/bricker-graydon/ Connect with Steve Fretzin:LinkedIn: Steve FretzinTwitter: @stevefretzinInstagram: @fretzinsteveFacebook: Fretzin, Inc.Website: Fretzin.comEmail: Steve@Fretzin.comBook: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more!YouTube: Steve FretzinCall Steve directly at 847-602-6911 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Shireen Hilal discuss:Navigating modern law firm strategy in a rapidly evolving legal marketImproving internal operations and team culture to boost law firm performanceEnhancing client engagement and retention amid budget constraintsLeveraging cross-selling and business development tactics within law firms Key Takeaways:Law firms that prioritize understanding and responding to their clients' future needs instead of mirroring competitors can unlock unique opportunities for differentiation and growth.Clear and value-based billing practices—paired with proactive scope, time, and budget alignment—are essential to reinforcing client trust and maintaining healthy payment cycles.Structured programs like internal expert briefings and strategic client lunches can make cross-selling more natural and effective by focusing on solving client problems rather than pitching services.Communicating pricing changes with context and care rather than through generic finance memos helps strengthen client relationships and reinforces long-term loyalty. "The problem with obsessing about your competition instead of your clients is that, if you do, you are almost, by definition, falling in the middle. So the better way to get ahead, I think, is to be client-obsessed." —  Shireen Hilal Unlock the secrets of the industry's top rainmakers with Be That Lawyer: 101 Top Rainmakers' Secrets to Growing a Successful Law Practice. Grab your ultimate guide to building a thriving law firm now on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F78HXJHT Thank you to our Sponsors!Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/ Ready to grow your law practice without selling or chasing? Book your free 30-minute strategy session now—let's make this your breakout year: https://fretzin.com/ About Shireen Hilal: Shireen is the CEO of Maior, a boutique consultancy that helps law firms with their pain points and plateaus with strategic and operational support, ranging from go-to-market solutions and profitability programs to process improvement and enhancing employee engagement.Before starting Maior, Shireen spent a decade practicing at AmLaw100 firms and then had the privilege of serving in several executive roles: COO of a national law firm (where she increased revenue by 20%, profits per partner by 30%, and achieved "best place to work" accolades), pivoting strategy and operations for enterprise firms (KPMG and BDO), and building out the growth division of a communications consulting firm.Through Maior, she now helps growing firms skyrocket, early-stage firms maintain their "special sauce" as they scale, and mature firms with a fresh perspective.Shireen also serves on the advisory board of a Top 100 accounting and advisory firm and writes a quarterly column for Law360 answering law firm leaders' questions. Connect with Shireen Hilal:  Website: https://www.maiorconsultants.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shireenhilal/ & https://www.linkedin.com/company/maior-consultants/Connect with Steve Fretzin:LinkedIn: Steve FretzinTwitter: @stevefretzinInstagram: @fretzinsteveFacebook: Fretzin, Inc.Website: Fretzin.comEmail: Steve@Fretzin.comBook: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more!YouTube: Steve FretzinCall Steve directly at 847-602-6911 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Christopher Anderson discuss:Urgency and intentionality in how professionals approach time and life decisionsOperational and structural challenges faced by small and large law firmsPersonal clarity and value-driven goal setting in legal careersMisalignment between perceived business needs and actual areas for growth Key Takeaways:Many law firms suffer from an inefficient cycle of over-marketing when caseloads are low, followed by frantic hiring when they surge, resulting in chronic instability.The most common and damaging mistake lawyers make is hiring help in areas they enjoy, rather than where they truly lack capability, such as fixing the "butterfly stroke."True work-life alignment comes from clearly defining three things: how much income you need, how much time you're willing to trade for it, and what you're trying to accomplish personally and professionally.Holding on to underperforming team members not only hurts your business but also deprives them of the opportunity to thrive elsewhere, and it's often best addressed through a third-party assessment. "Too many people just go after the money, and then they realize, okay, I'm trading time for money. So the more money I want, the more time I trade, and that leads to misery." —  Christopher Anderson Unlock the secrets of the industry's top rainmakers with Be That Lawyer: 101 Top Rainmakers' Secrets to Growing a Successful Law Practice. Grab your ultimate guide to building a thriving law firm now on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F78HXJHT Thank you to our Sponsors!Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/ Ready to grow your law practice without selling or chasing? Book your free 30-minute strategy session now—let's make this your breakout year: https://fretzin.com/ About Christopher Anderson: Christopher T. Anderson is a lifelong entrepreneur and attorney with a deep passion for helping law firm owners build practices that align with their goals, values, and vision. With nearly 30 years of experience, he draws from both wins and lessons learned across his ventures—including New Leaf Family, AndersonDodson, and Sunnyside Services, where he remains actively involved.Known for testing every strategy on his firm before advising others, Christopher combines business acumen, legal insight, and a pilot's clarity of focus to help law firm owners take control of their time, teams, and trajectory—on their terms. Connect with Christopher Anderson:  Website: http://www.sunnysidelaw.com/Email: christopher@sunnysidelaw.comShow: Un-Billable Hour: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/un-billable-hour-business-management-strategies-for/id335971413LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lawfirmbusiness/ & https://www.linkedin.com/company/sunnysidelawTwitter: https://x.com/LawFirmBusinessFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/NewLeafFamilyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/newleaf.family/ Connect with Steve Fretzin:LinkedIn: Steve FretzinTwitter: @stevefretzinInstagram: @fretzinsteveFacebook: Fretzin, Inc.Website: Fretzin.comEmail: Steve@Fretzin.comBook: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more!YouTube: Steve FretzinCall Steve directly at 847-602-6911 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Adam Ouellette discuss:The long-term impact of unmanaged stress in the legal professionShifting from reactive to responsive behavior in work and lifeThe necessity of integrating systems, organization, and delegation in law practicesExploring effective breathing and mindfulness practices for emotional regulation Key Takeaways:Most lawyers suffer from nervous system dysregulation due to chronic stress, which leads to physical symptoms like migraines, arrhythmia, and burnout.Heart-focused breathing, specifically the “Quick Coherence” method, can physiologically shift the body from fight-or-flight into healing mode in just minutes.Using modern legal tech tools like CRMs, automation software, and client management systems can drastically reduce workload and prevent burnout, but most lawyers resist adopting them.Implementing micro-pauses every 50 minutes for breathwork and short breaks can significantly reduce mental fatigue and boost long-term performance. "It's so critical that lawyers start to quiet their mind and regulate their nervous systems, because if you don't, you're gonna hit a wall at some point in your practice, and you're not gonna like it. Most people won't change until they have to." —  Adam Ouellette Unlock the secrets of the industry's top rainmakers with Be That Lawyer: 101 Top Rainmakers' Secrets to Growing a Successful Law Practice. Grab your ultimate guide to building a thriving law firm now on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F78HXJHT Thank you to our Sponsors!Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/ Ready to grow your law practice without selling or chasing? Book your free 30-minute strategy session now—let's make this your breakout year: https://fretzin.com/ Episode References: Getting Things Done by David Allen: https://www.amazon.com/Getting-Things-Done-Stress-Free-Productivity/dp/0142000280 About Adam Ouellette: Adam Ouellette, Esq. is a former law firm owner turned transformational consultant for lawyers. With over 28 years of experience in the legal field, Adam now helps law firm owners eliminate stress, increase productivity, and build balanced, fulfilling practices. He is the creator of Esquire Academy, the Stress Less Plus course for lawyers, and author of Raising the Bar – Turning a Law Career You Hate Into a Life You Love, In or Out of the Law. His new book, Transform Your Law Firm, Transform Your Life, will be published later this year. Adam specializes in law firm growth, time management for lawyers, lawyer wellness, and stress reduction for attorneys.Connect with Adam Ouellette:  Website: http://adam.law/Raising The Bar by Adam Ouellette: https://www.amazon.com/Raising-Bar-Turning-Career-Hate-ebook/dp/B00I9K1J58Twitter: https://twitter.com/AdamJOuelletteEmail: ajo@adam.lawLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamjouellette/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/esquireacademy Connect with Steve Fretzin:LinkedIn: Steve FretzinTwitter: @stevefretzinInstagram: @fretzinsteveFacebook: Fretzin, Inc.Website: Fretzin.comEmail: Steve@Fretzin.comBook: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more!YouTube: Steve FretzinCall Steve directly at 847-602-6911 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Viki Johnston discuss:Navigating the transition from individual contributor to effective leaderDeveloping communication skills that foster trust and clarityUnderstanding how mindset and self-awareness shape professional successUsing behavioral tools to improve collaboration and team dynamics Key Takeaways:Role-playing in training helps managers safely practice difficult conversations, allowing them to fail, debrief, and improve without real-world consequences.Poor listening is a critical leadership flaw; most people are merely waiting to talk instead of truly hearing others, especially in virtual settings.Paraphrasing not only shows active listening but also gives the speaker space to correct misunderstandings, reducing conflict and enhancing clarity.Undervaluing your services, often due to internal narratives or low self-worth, can hurt both your business and client relationships—a lesson learned after undercharging for years. "We think we can multitask. We really can't. We can't think and listen to somebody at the same time." —  Viki Johnston Unlock the secrets of the industry's top rainmakers with Be That Lawyer: 101 Top Rainmakers' Secrets to Growing a Successful Law Practice. Grab your ultimate guide to building a thriving law firm now on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F78HXJHT Thank you to our Sponsors!Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/ Ready to grow your law practice without selling or chasing? Book your free 30-minute strategy session now—let's make this your breakout year: https://fretzin.com/ About Viki Johnston: Viki Johnston is an entrepreneur, Training Consultant with over 25 years of her career dedicated to professional training. She designs and delivers soft skills classroom training that is customized to a client's exact requirements, across a range of subjects. Her in-depth knowledge of Customer Service and Business Management allows Viki to provide an exceptionally high level of learning facilitation and consultancy across a wide range of industries.Viki is British, a Master Practitioner of NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming), DiSC certified, and Certified in Applied Improvisation. She currently lives in Irvine, Southern California, with her husband and daughter. She is a self-confessed lifelong learner with a passion for helping others experience light bulb moments and achieve their own goals. Connect with Viki Johnston:  Website: https://www.exelorate.com/Email: viki@exelorate.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vikijohnston/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vikiajohnstonInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/exelorate2015/ Connect with Steve Fretzin:LinkedIn: Steve FretzinTwitter: @stevefretzinInstagram: @fretzinsteveFacebook: Fretzin, Inc.Website: Fretzin.comEmail: Steve@Fretzin.comBook: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more!YouTube: Steve FretzinCall Steve directly at 847-602-6911Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Ben Chiriboga discuss:Career reinvention for lawyers beyond traditional legal rolesRelationship-building as a foundation for personal and professional successInternal mindset shifts needed for meaningful career growthFear as a driving force behind both success and stagnation Key Takeaways:Building a sustainable legal career requires deliberately cultivating professional relationships rather than relying on coincidence or default connections.Success in and beyond law depends not only on delivering excellent work but also on ensuring others perceive the value of that work.Many lawyers unknowingly use fear to fuel perfectionism or people-pleasing behaviors, which ultimately leads to emotional burnout and professional dissatisfaction.Embracing authenticity and aligning your work with personal strengths creates more meaningful opportunities than following narrow conventional paths. "Some way, somehow you're going to have to face your fear. Either reality will come crashing on you, or... you work with the fear... but there's no getting around it." —  Ben Chiriboga Unlock the secrets of the industry's top rainmakers with Be That Lawyer: 101 Top Rainmakers' Secrets to Growing a Successful Law Practice. Grab your ultimate guide to building a thriving law firm now on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F78HXJHT Thank you to our Sponsors!Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/ Ready to grow your law practice without selling or chasing? Book your free 30-minute strategy session now—let's make this your breakout year: https://fretzin.com/ Episode References: This Legal Life: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/this-legal-life-lessons-learned-from-a-life-in-legal/id1679451845 About Ben Chiriboga: Ben Chiriboga is a lawyer turned legal technology executive at Nexl, an all-in-one legal CRM that helps lawyers, marketers, and business development professionals turn their growth ambitions into action.Alongside his work at Nexl, Ben speaks, writes, and podcasts about the evolution of legal careers. A seasoned conference speaker, Ben presents to legal professionals around the world about the future of law.Check out Ben's podcast, This Legal Life, where he interviews legal professionals about their lives in legal. Connect with Ben Chiriboga:  Website: https://nexl.cloud/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benchiriboga/ Connect with Steve Fretzin:LinkedIn: Steve FretzinTwitter: @stevefretzinInstagram: @fretzinsteveFacebook: Fretzin, Inc.Website: Fretzin.comEmail: Steve@Fretzin.comBook: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more!YouTube: Steve FretzinCall Steve directly at 847-602-6911 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Nick Augustine discuss:Authenticity in legal careers and professional identityBranding, marketing, and business development in lawCareer reinvention through personal values and experienceThe connection between human storytelling and client trust Key Takeaways:Lawyers should humanize their brand by sharing personal interests (e.g., hobbies, family life) on social media to create relatability and trust with clients.Many attorneys fail at marketing because they attempt to outsource it without contributing their personality or narrative, which is what really attracts referrals.To identify your authentic brand, listen closely to client compliments and peer feedback—these often reveal your true differentiators.Attorneys overly dependent on digital marketing (like Google ads) should step back and re-engage in grassroots relationship-building to avoid a fragile business model. "Your brand is how people know you, who are the types of people who call you, who are the types of law firms who give referrals to you, who you are, differentiated among the others in the community." —  Nick Augustine Unlock the secrets of the industry's top rainmakers with Be That Lawyer: 101 Top Rainmakers' Secrets to Growing a Successful Law Practice. Grab your ultimate guide to building a thriving law firm now on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F78HXJHT Thank you to our Sponsors!Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/ Ready to grow your law practice without selling or chasing? Book your free 30-minute strategy session now—let's make this your breakout year: https://fretzin.com/ Episode References: The Joe Rogan Experience: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-joe-rogan-experience/id360084272About Nick Augustine: Nick Augustine is a lawyer who doesn't practice law and instead launched a digital marketing agency in 2005 to create the best content for lawyers and business professionals.Connect with Nick Augustine:  Website: https://lonestarcontentmarketing.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickaugustinetx/ & https://www.linkedin.com/company/2884978/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JohnNicholasAugustineJDConnect with Steve Fretzin:LinkedIn: Steve FretzinTwitter: @stevefretzinInstagram: @fretzinsteveFacebook: Fretzin, Inc.Website: Fretzin.comEmail: Steve@Fretzin.comBook: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more!YouTube: Steve FretzinCall Steve directly at 847-602-6911 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

In this hands-on, in-the-trenches episode about real business development, learn the secrets to acquiring and signing new clients from law firm advisor Steve Fretzin, author of the new book “Be That Lawyer: The 101 Top Rainmaker Secrets to Growing a Successful Law Practice.” Fretzin, an accomplished author, business strategist, and podcaster, works with law firms big and small to help them prioritize goals, build their business, and achieve measurable, repeatable successes. Business development is more than buzzwords such as “branding” or “marketing,” it's about the entire, intentional path to creating a business that is always growing, always producing. It's the process of becoming the lawyer that everyone knows and everyone goes to: a rainmaker. As Fretzin says, “Be that lawyer.”  Hear about “sales-free selling” with a thoughtful, insightful approach to learning what clients need before you start pitching a service. Develop a checklist, a map, for building your business that you can put to work today. Developing a business can be confusing, with a lot of moving parts. Fretzin explains how it all comes together. Mentioned in This Episode: Books by Steve Fretzin  Previous appearance on The Un-Billable Hour, “Business Development: Planning and Practicing” Join the next Community Table live. What's on your mind? 

In this hands-on, in-the-trenches episode about real business development, learn the secrets to acquiring and signing new clients from law firm advisor Steve Fretzin, author of the new book “Be That Lawyer: The 101 Top Rainmaker Secrets to Growing a Successful Law Practice.” Fretzin, an accomplished author, business strategist, and podcaster, works with law firms big and small to help them prioritize goals, build their business, and achieve measurable, repeatable successes. Business development is more than buzzwords such as “branding” or “marketing,” it's about the entire, intentional path to creating a business that is always growing, always producing. It's the process of becoming the lawyer that everyone knows and everyone goes to: a rainmaker. As Fretzin says, “Be that lawyer.”  Hear about “sales-free selling” with a thoughtful, insightful approach to learning what clients need before you start pitching a service. Develop a checklist, a map, for building your business that you can put to work today. Developing a business can be confusing, with a lot of moving parts. Fretzin explains how it all comes together. Mentioned in This Episode: Books by Steve Fretzin  Previous appearance on The Un-Billable Hour, “Business Development: Planning and Practicing” Join the next Community Table live. What's on your mind?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Howard Ankin discuss:The strategic use of media and marketing in legal servicesThe evolving role of lawyers in both legal practice and business developmentBuilding personal and firm-wide brand equity in competitive industriesAdapting to modern client behaviors and expectations Key Takeaways:Focus on ethical, long-term brand visibility rather than chasing the latest marketing gimmicks. Consistency and integrity build lasting trust.Use traditional and digital media together to reinforce brand recognition, especially by being present where your audience already is.Develop deep professional relationships by aligning your identity and messaging with authenticity, so clients know exactly who you are and what to expect.Stay current on technology and regulations impacting outreach, but avoid tactics that risk client privacy or cross ethical lines. "There's no question that the success of any lawyer, anywhere and anytime, comes from having and associating with great people." —  Howard Ankin Unlock the secrets of the industry's top rainmakers with Be That Lawyer: 101 Top Rainmakers' Secrets to Growing a Successful Law Practice. Grab your ultimate guide to building a thriving law firm now on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F78HXJHT Thank you to our Sponsors!Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/ Ready to grow your law practice without selling or chasing? Book your free 30-minute strategy session now—let's make this your breakout year: https://fretzin.com/ Episode References: Good to Great by Jim Collins: https://www.amazon.com/Good-Great-Some-Companies-Others/dp/0066620996 About Howard Ankin: Howard Ankin is the principal owner of Ankin Law, a leading Chicago-based firm he co-founded with his father in 1997. A third-generation attorney, Howard has deep roots in the legal community and longstanding relationships with many clients. Ankin Law has grown to become one of Illinois' largest filers of injury and workers' compensation cases, supported by over 90 attorneys and staff. Howard is also a recognized legal leader and active community member, serving on multiple legal boards and earning numerous professional honors. Connect with Howard Ankin:  Website: https://ankinlaw.com/Phone: 3126000000LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/howard-ankin-9671743/ & https://www.linkedin.com/company/ankin-law/Twitter: https://x.com/ankinlawFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AnkinLawOffice/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ankinlaw/ Connect with Steve Fretzin:LinkedIn: Steve FretzinTwitter: @stevefretzinInstagram: @fretzinsteveFacebook: Fretzin, Inc.Website: Fretzin.comEmail: Steve@Fretzin.comBook: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more!YouTube: Steve FretzinCall Steve directly at 847-602-6911 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Cecilia Poullain discuss:The intersection of personal transformation and professional identityNavigating and overcoming fear through self-expressionThe power of storytelling in reclaiming one's voiceShifting from traditional career paths to more authentic, purpose-driven lives Key Takeaways:To overcome fear of public speaking or visibility, engage in practices like vocal training or performance-based activities that reconnect you with your physical voice and sense of self-expression.Before pursuing a major career opportunity, reflect deeply on whether the role aligns with your true values and identity, rather than simply accepting it based on prestige or external validation.Avoid falling into perfectionism by giving yourself permission to make mistakes, take small experimental steps, and speak up even when your contribution feels imperfect or incomplete.Create intentional professional communities where you can actively contribute, connect with aligned individuals, and develop visibility, rather than waiting passively for recognition or advancement. " A real destroyer of confidence is perfectionism." —  Cecilia Poullain Unlock the secrets of the industry's top rainmakers with Be That Lawyer: 101 Top Rainmakers' Secrets to Growing a Successful Law Practice. Grab your ultimate guide to building a thriving law firm now on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F78HXJHT Thank you to our Sponsors!Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/Ready to grow your law practice without selling or chasing? Book your free 30-minute strategy session now—let's make this your breakout year: https://fretzin.com/ Episode References: Rebel Ideas by Matthew Syed: https://www.amazon.com/Rebel-Ideas-Power-Diverse-Thinking/dp/1473613949 About Cecilia Poullain: Cecilia Poullain is a certified executive coach and former finance lawyer who helps women in law make partner and lead with confidence. Qualified in Australia, the UK, and France, she brings decades of legal experience to her work coaching female lawyers on the path to partnership.Cecilia supports women in building confidence, navigating firm politics, and developing a strong client base to succeed at the highest levels. Through her 1:1 coaching, Pathway to Partnership program, and Firm Women breakfasts in Paris, she empowers women lawyers to rise, lead, and drive change in the legal profession. Connect with Cecilia Poullain:  Website: https://www.ceciliapoullain.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ceciliapoullain Connect with Steve Fretzin:LinkedIn: Steve FretzinTwitter: @stevefretzinInstagram: @fretzinsteveFacebook: Fretzin, Inc.Website: Fretzin.comEmail: Steve@Fretzin.comBook: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more!YouTube: Steve FretzinCall Steve directly at 847-602-6911 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Mark Murphy discuss:The challenges and nuances of hiring the right talent for law firmsThe critical distinction between attitude and skills in recruitmentHow leadership traits can hinder effective hiring decisionsPractical strategies for improving the legal hiring and interview process Key Takeaways:Eighty-nine percent of new hires fail due to attitude issues like entitlement or resistance to feedback, not because of technical skill gaps, showing why firms must prioritize attitude in hiring.Top-performing teams rely on five key roles—director, trailblazer, harmonizer, achiever, and stabilizer—each providing distinct behavioral strengths that drive success.Interviewers can quickly spot problem solvers by asking about a past mistake and seeing if the candidate naturally explains how they resolved it without prompting.High performers use first-person and past-tense language when describing real experiences, while weaker candidates rely on vague, hypothetical answers using second-person phrasing. "I always tell leaders this: ironically, the better the leader you are, often the worse hirer you are, because you have to dial down your natural optimism and desire to see everybody be great." —  Mark Murphy Unlock the secrets of the industry's top rainmakers with Be That Lawyer: 101 Top Rainmakers' Secrets to Growing a Successful Law Practice. Grab your ultimate guide to building a thriving law firm now on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F78HXJHT Thank you to our Sponsors!Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/ Ready to grow your law practice without selling or chasing? Book your free 30-minute strategy session now—let's make this your breakout year: https://fretzin.com/ Episode References: Think Again by Adam Grant: https://www.amazon.com/Think-Again-Power-Knowing-What/dp/1984878107 About Mark Murphy: Mark Murphy is a New York Times bestselling author whose groundbreaking book Hiring for Attitude has transformed the way companies hire and build high-performing teams. His pioneering research revealed that nearly half of new hires fail within 18 months — and a staggering 89% of those failures result from attitude, not a lack of skills. His insights have reshaped hiring strategies for Fortune 500 companies, fast-growing startups, and government agencies worldwide. Connect with Mark Murphy:  Website: https://www.leadershipiq.com/Book: Hiring for Attitude: https://www.amazon.com/Hiring-Attitude-Revolutionary-Recruiting-Tremendous/dp/1259860906LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markamurphy/ & https://www.linkedin.com/company/leadership-iq/ Connect with Steve Fretzin:LinkedIn: Steve FretzinTwitter: @stevefretzinInstagram: @fretzinsteveFacebook: Fretzin, Inc.Website: Fretzin.comEmail: Steve@Fretzin.comBook: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more!YouTube: Steve FretzinCall Steve directly at 847-602-6911 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Susie Pontefract discuss:Evolving leadership across generational landscapesEmbedding purpose-driven organizational strategiesBuilding cultures of human potentialPersonal values shaping leadership impact Key Takeaways:Leadership requires letting go of ego and creating intentional space for others to step in, lead, and grow through a foundation of trust, mutual respect, and genuine empowerment.Effective leaders must prioritize understanding and supporting their team's holistic development by recognizing individual potential, nurturing personal growth, and creating environments that transcend traditional workplace boundaries.Organizations should transform their approach from treating employees as human capital to cultivating human potential by embracing each individual's unique strengths, aspirations, and capacity for meaningful contribution.Successful leadership demands continuous learning, deep empathy, and adaptive strategies that bridge generational differences, foster inclusive communication, and create collaborative environments where diverse talents can flourish. "If you want to be a rainmaker out there doing your own thing, then give your people the power to get the rest of it done and make sure you're giving them the kudos and credit when they do." —  Susie Pontefract Unlock the secrets of the industry's top rainmakers with Be That Lawyer: 101 Top Rainmakers' Secrets to Growing a Successful Law Practice. Grab your ultimate guide to building a thriving law firm now on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F78HXJHT Thank you to our Sponsors!Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/Ready to grow your law practice without selling or chasing? Book your free 30-minute strategy session now—let's make this your breakout year: https://fretzin.com/ Episode References: Good Boss, Bad Boss by Robert I. Sutton: https://www.amazon.com/Good-Boss-Bad-Learn-Worst/dp/0446556076 About Susie Pontefract: Susie is a dynamic and results-oriented leader and mentor with over 20 years of demonstrated success in strategic leadership, team management, and value delivery across a wide range of industries and company sizes. She is recognized for empowering teams, inspiring leaders, and building strong, collaborative partnerships across all organizational levels—from front-line employees to executives, board members, and external stakeholders. As the founder of Cohearence Consulting, Susie is dedicated to helping small to mid-sized companies strengthen their organizations through cohesive strategies, aligned teams, and exceptional execution. Connect with Susie Pontefract:  Website: co-hear-ence.comEmail: susie@co-hear-ence.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susiepontefract/ & https://www.linkedin.com/company/cohearence-consulting Connect with Steve Fretzin:LinkedIn: Steve FretzinTwitter: @stevefretzinInstagram: @fretzinsteveFacebook: Fretzin, Inc.Website: Fretzin.comEmail: Steve@Fretzin.comBook: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more!YouTube: Steve FretzinCall Steve directly at 847-602-6911 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with returning guest Steve Fretzin—legal business development coach, author, and host of Be That Lawyer—about the core lessons shared in his new book, Be That Lawyer. Steve explains why the book begins with mindfulness and time mastery, stressing that business development success starts with managing stress, mindset, and structure. Drawing from years of coaching lawyers, Steve outlines how burnout, disorganization, and lack of clarity are major barriers to rainmaking—and offers practical systems for time tracking, delegation, and habit-building to counter them. The conversation also explores how introverts can succeed in business development through preparation and repeatable routines, and how podcasting serves as a powerful tool for networking, content creation, and credibility. Steve shares insights on how lawyers can amplify their brand by repurposing podcast appearances and building long-term visibility. This episode is filled with real-world tactics for becoming a focused, productive, and well-positioned rainmaker. Visit: https://therainmakingpodcast.com/ YouTube: https://youtu.be/p-d0GTEEy-s ---------------------------------------- This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link: https://www.leopardsolutions.com/index.php/request-a-demo/ ---------------------------------------- Steve Fretzin coaches and trains lawyers the most modern-day business development skills, providing precise tips, fresh ideas and actionable tasks. The host of the BE THAT LAWYER podcast, Steve has been featured in the Chicago Tribune, Crain's and Entrepreneur.com and has appeared on NBC News and WGN Radio. He has written three books on legal business development, is a regular contributor to the Chicago Daily Law Bulletin and has published articles in Attorney at Law magazine, the National Law Review, the American Bar Association and the Illinois State Bar Association. Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevefretzin/ https://fretzin.com/ https://fretzin.com/podcast/ https://fretzin.com/101-top-rainmakers-secrets-to-growing-a-successful-law-practice/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Send us a textlovethylawyer.comA transcript of this podcast is available at lovethylawyer.com. In collaboration with theAlameda County Bar Association, Love Thy Lawyer presents an interview with:Steve Fretzin Steve Fretzin is a business coach who only works with lawyers, teaching them how to bring in clients and run their practices. He also hosts the “Be That Lawyer” podcast, where he shares advice from top rainmakers. After the 2008 recession, Steve narrowed his sales‑training firm to focus on the legal world and never looked back. He built the “sales‑free selling” method so attorneys can win work without feeling pushy, and he now coaches lawyers across the U.S. and in countries like Brazil, Saudi Arabia, and Canada. In this episode he explains why a clear step‑by‑step process beats a hard sell, how to spot clients who will drain your time, and why every lawyer needs their own “book of business” for long‑term security. Tune in to hear simple, real‑world tips you can use right away to attract better clients, charge what you're worth, and feel confident about the future of your practice. You'll leave with fresh ideas on networking, pricing, and building a career that works on your terms.Steve Fretzinhttps://fretzin.com/    Alameda County Bar AssociationThe Alameda County Bar Association (ACBA) is a professional membership association for lawyers and other members of the legal profession. The ACBA provides access to ongoing legal education; and promotes diversity and civil rights in the Alameda County legal community. Our mission is to promote excellence in the legal profession and to facilitate equal access to justice.Please subscribe and listen. Then tell us who you want to hear and what areas of interest you'd like us to cover.  Louis Goodman www.louisgoodman.comhttps://www.lovethylawyer.com/510.582.9090Music: Joel Katz, Seaside Recording, MauiTech: Bryan Matheson, Skyline Studios, OaklandAudiograms: Paul Robert louis@lovethylawyer.com

Watch the YouTube version of this episode HEREAre you looking for advice on how to become a better lawyer? In this insightful episode of Maximum Lawyer, Tyson chats with Steve Fretzin about the dual importance of legal expertise and business development for lawyers. Tyson and Steve discuss the importance of good development in becoming a lawyer, which includes multiple steps. Communication is a huge part of developing into a good lawyer. Though many lawyers tend to be sales people where they sell themselves as the best person for the job to clients, Steve emphasizes the need to get to know the client, what their needs are and how you can help them. Building that relationship ensures the client can trust you as their lawyer and know that you have their best interests in mind.There are a lot of opportunities for lawyers to take advantage of advancing technology. Whether it's marketing, intake, writing up reports or conducting research, AI can be a game changer for lawyers. It is also important for AI to be used throughout a firm to ensure everyone is on the same page. Steve proposes firms have technology and AI embedded into policies to make sure employees are all following the same direction.Listen in to learn more!01:23 Lawyers as Service Providers 09:02 Concerns About Subscription Models 11:58 AI Implementation in Law Firms20:20 Mindset on Business Development 22:24 Partnership Dynamics27:33 Survival Strategies in Tough Times31:08 Accessing Resources and NetworkingTune in to today's episode and checkout the full show notes here. Connect with Steve:Website Instagram  Facebook  Linkedin  X 

In this episode, Steve Fretzin and John Morgan discuss:Business growth and scaling strategiesImportance of partnerships and accountabilityTechnological innovation in professional servicesEntrepreneurial mindset and vision Key Takeaways:Successful businesses balance proactive growth (“catching fish”) with strong operations (“cooking fish”) for sustained efficiency.Clear, data-driven systems with dashboards and accountability can transform culture and boost individual and team performance.AI adoption should be cautious, tested, and iterative, with room for learning from early-stage mistakes.Long-term resilience requires financial reserves, backup strategies, and readiness for unpredictable “Black Swan” events. "What 'Only the Paranoid Survive' means is: be aware. Do [not just walk] down the street with blinders on and not see it coming, because it can come from anywhere. A problem can come from anywhere, and so you just have to be prepared." —  John Morgan Unlock the secrets of the industry's top rainmakers with Be That Lawyer: 101 Top Rainmakers' Secrets to Growing a Successful Law Practice. Grab your ultimate guide to building a thriving law firm now on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F78HXJHT Thank you to our Sponsors!Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/Ready to grow your law practice without selling or chasing? Book your free 30-minute strategy session now—let's make this your breakout year: https://fretzin.com/ Episode References: The Black Swan by Nassim Nicholas Taleb: https://www.amazon.com/Black-Swan-Improbable-Robustness-Fragility/dp/081297381X About John Morgan: John Morgan moved to Central Florida as a teen and was forever changed when his brother Tim was paralyzed while working at Disney and mistreated by both the company and legal system, inspiring him to fight for the powerless and seek justice against big corporations. He earned his law degree from the University of Florida in 1983 and, with his wife Ultima, founded Morgan & Morgan in 1988; over 34 years, it became the nation's largest injury law firm, recovering over $13 billion for 300,000+ clients. John authored two books — You Can't Teach Hungry and You Can't Teach Vision — reflecting the principles behind his success, and he's also a political advocate and philanthropist supporting marijuana reform, minimum wage increases, and aid for abuse survivors and the hungry. Connect with John Morgan:  Website: https://www.forthepeople.com/Email: jmorgan@forthepeople.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnmorganesq/Twitter: https://x.com/johnmorganesqFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/JohnMorganESQ Connect with Steve Fretzin:LinkedIn: Steve FretzinTwitter: @stevefretzinInstagram: @fretzinsteveFacebook: Fretzin, Inc.Website: Fretzin.comEmail: Steve@Fretzin.comBook: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more!YouTube: Steve FretzinCall Steve directly at 847-602-6911 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Gerard Virga discuss:Navigating emotional complexity and client crises in family lawEvolving business development practices in solo and small firm legal settingsExpanding legal services through education, technology, and content creationManaging personal and professional balance to prevent burnout in law practice Key Takeaways:Direct, relationship-focused communication—such as sharing personal contact info—can build trust, drive referrals, and deepen client loyalty.Implementing educational tools like AI videos and podcasts helps clients understand legal processes and significantly lowers their anxiety.Developing and signing a litigation strategy plan early in the case helps align client expectations, reduces unnecessary conflict, and clarifies legal goals.Carefully qualifying clients based on emotional stability and willingness to follow advice helps reduce burnout and improve case outcomes. "If we don't alleviate that pressure early, we don't answer those questions, we don't get to the root of the problems, then it's going to fester." —  Gerard Virga Unlock the secrets of the industry's top rainmakers with Be That Lawyer: 101 Top Rainmakers' Secrets to Growing a Successful Law Practice. Grab your ultimate guide to building a thriving law firm now on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F78HXJHT Thank you to our Sponsors!Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/ Ready to grow your law practice without selling or chasing? Book your free 30-minute strategy session now—let's make this your breakout year: https://fretzin.com/ Episode References: The Game Changing Attorney by Michael Mogill: https://www.amazon.com/Game-Changing-Attorney-Competition-Obvious-ebook/dp/B07JWGX3YB About Gerard Virga: Gerard Virga is a seasoned family law attorney and the founding partner of The Virga Law Firm, where he leads a team of dedicated legal professionals across offices throughout Florida. With a passion for advocating for families during life's most challenging transitions, Gerard has built a firm known for its commitment to excellence, personalized client care, and aggressive representation in family law matters. Connect with Gerard Virga:  Website: http://www.thevirgalawfirm.com/Phone: 850-818-0236Show: The Florida Family Law Attorney Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-florida-family-law-attorney-podcast/id1799493137LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gerard-virga-006a9263/ & https://www.linkedin.com/company/thevirgalawfirmTwitter: https://x.com/TheVirgaLawFirmFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/gerard.virga.5 & https://www.facebook.com/virgalawfirm/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thevirgalawfirm/ Connect with Steve Fretzin:LinkedIn: Steve FretzinTwitter: @stevefretzinInstagram: @fretzinsteveFacebook: Fretzin, Inc.Website: Fretzin.comEmail: Steve@Fretzin.comBook: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more!YouTube: Steve FretzinCall Steve directly at 847-602-6911 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Tim Sawyer discuss:Mentorship and mastermind groups as catalysts for professional growthUniversal business models shaping success across industries including legalEmotional authenticity as a foundation for impactful branding and client engagementDiscomfort as a necessary stage in the journey toward meaningful progress Key Takeaways:Professionals who admit their blind spots and join mastermind groups grow faster by learning from shared experiences and direct peer feedback.The simple model of finding, converting, and keeping clients consistently drives growth across industries, including legal.Lawyers who lead with authenticity, such as personal storytelling or community involvement, build trust and stronger emotional resonance.Intentional preparation and embracing discomfort during networking lead to better conversations, more opportunities, and long-term business impact. "AI will not replace lawyers, but lawyers who are using AI are definitely going to have an impact on lawyers who don't." —  Tim Sawyer Unlock the secrets of the industry's top rainmakers with Be That Lawyer: 101 Top Rainmakers' Secrets to Growing a Successful Law Practice. Grab your ultimate guide to building a thriving law firm now on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F78HXJHT Thank you to our Sponsors!Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/ Ready to grow your law practice without selling or chasing? Book your free 30-minute strategy session now—let's make this your breakout year: https://fretzin.com/ Episode References: Who Moved My Cheese? by Spencer Johnson and Kenneth Blanchard: https://www.amazon.com/Who-Moved-My-Cheese-Mazing-ebook/dp/B004CR6AM4 About Tim Sawyer: Tim is a two-time Inc. 500 co-founder with two successful private equity exits, a professional speaker, and an expert in business sales and growth strategies. As EVP of Sales and an investor at FasterOutcomes, he helps law firms leverage AI-powered legal intelligence to drive efficiency and profitability. With a strong background in digital marketing, Tim has led high-performing sales teams and scaled businesses through innovative strategies. He is also the host of the Legal Keys podcast, where he explores the intersection of law, technology, and firm success. Connect with Tim Sawyer:  Website: http://www.fasteroutcomes.com/Email: tim@fasteroutcomes.comShow: Legal Keys: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/legal-keys-unlocking-time-revenue-and-results/id1791762308LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sawyertim/ & https://www.linkedin.com/company/faster-outcomes/ Connect with Steve Fretzin:LinkedIn: Steve FretzinTwitter: @stevefretzinInstagram: @fretzinsteveFacebook: Fretzin, Inc.Website: Fretzin.comEmail: Steve@Fretzin.comBook: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more!YouTube: Steve FretzinCall Steve directly at 847-602-6911 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Tyson Mutrux discuss:The importance of cultivating the right mindset for professional growthBuilding and scaling a law firm through strategic hiring and systematized operationsThe power of networking and targeted referrals in developing a legal practiceUtilizing peer groups, coaching, and mentorship as tools for continuous improvement Key Takeaways:Mindset is the number one limiting factor for lawyers—without overcoming mental barriers, no strategy will work, even with a step-by-step million-dollar blueprint.Many law firms suffer from cash flow problems because lawyers pull too much money from the business too early, preventing reinvestment and sustainable growth.Effective hiring requires a thorough, systematized process—using tools like Zoho Recruit and strategies like “topgrading” ensures better long-term talent fit and retention.Networking should be laser-focused—meeting with professionals who are in a direct position to send targeted referrals, like volume PI firms or chiropractors, yields better ROI than general networking. "You can ruin a good hire just by having bad processes or no processes." —  Tyson Mutrux Got a challenge growing your law practice? Email me at steve@fretzin.com with your toughest question, and I'll answer it live on the show—anonymously, just using your first name! Thank you to our Sponsors!Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/ Ready to grow your law practice without selling or chasing? Book your free 30-minute strategy session now—let's make this your breakout year: https://fretzin.com/ Episode References: Modern Wisdom Podcast by Chris Williamson: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/modern-wisdom/id1347973549About Tyson Mutrux: Tyson Mutrux is the owner and managing partner of Mutrux Firm LLC, a personal injury law firm based in St. Louis and Columbia, MO. He is also the co-founder and owner of Maximum Lawyer, a community where law firm owners connect, collaborate, and grow their firms. Connect with Tyson Mutrux:  Website: http://www.maximumlawyer.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tysonmutrux/ & https://www.linkedin.com/company/maximum-lawyerFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/maximumlawyerInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/maximumlawyer/ Connect with Steve Fretzin:LinkedIn: Steve FretzinTwitter: @stevefretzinInstagram: @fretzinsteveFacebook: Fretzin, Inc.Website: Fretzin.comEmail: Steve@Fretzin.comBook: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more!YouTube: Steve FretzinCall Steve directly at 847-602-6911 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Greg Eisenberg discuss:How law firm business models are quickly shifting due to tech and market forcesWhy branding and visibility are critical for firms of any sizeWays small and solo firms can compete with major legal playersHow legal entrepreneurship is evolving through collaboration Key Takeaways:Small law firms can remain competitive by joining collectives that centralize branding, marketing, and operational tools while allowing them to retain full ownership of their businesses.Repeating a strong personal brand message through short-form video content across the right platforms helps attorneys become top-of-mind in their niche.The most effective business development strategy combines strong referral networks and relationship-building with a smart digital advertising approach.Law firms must stop treating marketing as a standalone fix and instead adopt a unified strategy that integrates operations, technology, finance, and client experience for long-term success. "They say they don't teach business in law school. I went to business school. They don't teach business in business school—it didn't make a huge difference. There's just some stuff they can't prepare you for." —  Greg Eisenberg Got a challenge growing your law practice? Email me at steve@fretzin.com with your toughest question, and I'll answer it live on the show—anonymously, just using your first name! Thank you to our Sponsors!Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/Ready to grow your law practice without selling or chasing? Book your free 30-minute strategy session now—let's make this your breakout year: https://fretzin.com/ Episode References: The GaryVee Audio Experience: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-garyvee-audio-experience/id928159684 About Greg Eisenberg: Gregory Eisenberg won the award for “Worst (or Best) Doppelgangers” thanks to his resemblance to Beaker, Shaggy, and Screech. A failed comedian and worse political candidate, he found his calling helping law firms grow. With 10+ years in marketing, he's worked with brands like Cinnabon, Carvel, and major universities. After starting LegalEase Marketing, he realized firms needed more than leads—they needed infrastructure. That led to Ready Firms, built to help small firms scale and stay competitive. Connect with Greg Eisenberg:  Website: https://readyfirms.com/Email: greg@readyfirms.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregoryseisenberg/ & https://www.linkedin.com/company/readyfirms/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/readyfirmsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/readyfirms Connect with Steve Fretzin:LinkedIn: Steve FretzinTwitter: @stevefretzinInstagram: @fretzinsteveFacebook: Fretzin, Inc.Website: Fretzin.comEmail: Steve@Fretzin.comBook: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more!YouTube: Steve FretzinCall Steve directly at 847-602-6911 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Lindsey Busfield discuss:The nuances and strategic use of SEO for law firm marketingThe importance of selective client intake for long-term successEvaluating the effectiveness of social media versus SEO in legal marketingUtilizing modern website tools and AI-driven bots for better client engagement Key Takeaways:SEO can be a game-changer, but only for firms in the right geographic and competitive conditions—others should consider niche targeting or different marketing strategies entirely.Social media rarely drives real case volume for law firms, unless it's used with intention, high-quality content, and deep community alignment.Choosing the right clients is just as important as hiring the right team, because poor client fit leads to burnout, financial issues, and strained relationships.Website platforms should match your marketing goals, with WordPress offering the best SEO flexibility, while simpler tools like Squarespace are fine for credibility-focused sites. "I have never talked to a lawyer who has said, 'Yes, I am getting half of my caseload through social media because it's so great.' That being said, social media can be really helpful as part of a grassroots campaign." —  Lindsey Busfield Got a challenge growing your law practice? Email me at steve@fretzin.com with your toughest question, and I'll answer it live on the show—anonymously, just using your first name! Thank you to our Sponsors!Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/ Ready to grow your law practice without selling or chasing? Book your free 30-minute strategy session now—let's make this your breakout year: https://fretzin.com/ Episode References: Intaker: https://intaker.com/LinkedIn Tutorial for Business Development: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0EWfLRtUL0g About Lindsey Busfield: Lindsey Busfield is a leading legal marketing expert and recognized industry disruptor, featured in publications like Benzinga, USA Today, and Attorney at Law Magazine. As Vice President and partner at Optimize My Firm, she has helped dozens of law firms boost revenue through strategic SEO and content marketing. Connect with Lindsey Busfield:  Website: http://www.optimizemyfirm.com/Show: Personal Injury Marketing Minute: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/personal-injury-marketing-minute/id1536073987LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindsey-busfield/ & https://www.linkedin.com/company/optimizemyfirm Connect with Steve Fretzin:LinkedIn: Steve FretzinTwitter: @stevefretzinInstagram: @fretzinsteveFacebook: Fretzin, Inc.Website: Fretzin.comEmail: Steve@Fretzin.comBook: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more!YouTube: Steve FretzinCall Steve directly at 847-602-6911 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Jody Glidden discuss:The evolution and growing impact of AI in professional servicesChallenges lawyers face in client relationship managementThe limitations and future of traditional CRMsStrategies for maintaining and expanding client relationships Key Takeaways:43% of clients leave law firms not because of service quality but due to poor communication and lack of follow-up.AI-powered tools like Postilize can monitor relationship gaps and generate personalized outreach suggestions for lawyers to approve and send.Keeping in touch with clients through relevant life or business events — like promotions, layoffs, or funding rounds — can significantly boost retention and trust.Many lawyers miss business opportunities by failing to engage multiple contacts ("multi-threading") within a client's organization, risking total loss when one contact departs. "If you can ever move [a relationship] to personal, I think then you've probably got them for life." —  Jody Glidden Got a challenge growing your law practice? Email me at steve@fretzin.com with your toughest question, and I'll answer it live on the show—anonymously, just using your first name! Ready to grow your law practice without selling or chasing? Book your free 30-minute strategy session now—let's make this your breakout year: https://fretzin.com/ Thank you to our Sponsor!Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/Rainmakers Roundtable: https://www.fretzin.com/lawyer-coaching-and-training/peer-advisory-groups/ Episode References: Atomic Habits by James Clear: https://www.amazon.com/Atomic-Habits-Proven-Build-Break/dp/0735211299 About Jody Glidden: Jody Glidden is a seasoned entrepreneur, AI innovator, and the driving force behind Postilize, an AI-powered business development platform for professional services firms. With over two decades in tech, he's best known as the founder of Introhive, which he scaled to a $500 million valuation, delivering 40x returns for early investors. Under his leadership, Introhive grew to over 250,000 users at firms like PwC, Deloitte, DLA Piper, and Baker McKenzie. At Postilize, Jody applies his expertise in CRM, ERM, and AI automation to tackle challenges like missing relationship data, manual processes, and inconsistent client engagement. He integrates Generative AI and real-time event detection to craft personalized outreach and drive scalable relationship management, retention, and client acquisition. Connect with Jody Glidden:  Website: https://www.postilize.comEmail: jody.glidden@postilize.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodyglidden/ & https://www.linkedin.com/company/postilize/ Connect with Steve Fretzin:LinkedIn: Steve FretzinTwitter: @stevefretzinInstagram: @fretzinsteveFacebook: Fretzin, Inc.Website: Fretzin.comEmail: Steve@Fretzin.comBook: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more!YouTube: Steve FretzinCall Steve directly at 847-602-6911 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Kyle Hebenstreit discuss:The evolving legal industry landscape due to institutional capital and Big Four involvementRising competition and channel fragmentation in legal marketingStrategic marketing approaches tailored to client personas and firm typesOperational and budgetary decisions that influence long-term law firm growth Key Takeaways:Private equity and institutional capital are transforming the legal industry, creating new acquisition and exit opportunities for small, consumer-facing law firms.Social media platforms like LinkedIn and Meta hold high potential for law firms, yet are underutilized, especially with organic content for referrals and paid campaigns for brand awareness.Law firms should begin their marketing strategy by analyzing successful recent clients and understanding how they found them before setting a marketing budget.When choosing a marketing partner, inquire about client-to-manager ratios, review actual KPIs, and check references, much like when hiring a full-time employee. "If you're staying top of mind for your professional network... you can help augment referral traffic that way." —  Kyle Hebenstreit Got a challenge growing your law practice? Email me at steve@fretzin.com with your toughest question, and I'll answer it live on the show—anonymously, just using your first name! Thank you to our Sponsor!Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/ Ready to grow your law practice without selling or chasing? Book your free 30-minute strategy session now—let's make this your breakout year: https://fretzin.com/ Episode References: The Hard Thing About Hard Things by Ben Horowitz: https://www.amazon.com/Hard-Thing-About-Things-Building/dp/0062273205 About Kyle Hebenstreit: Kyle Hebenstreit is the Chief Executive Officer of PracticeMadePerfect (PMP), where he leads a team dedicated to helping law firms grow through tailored, data-driven marketing solutions. With nearly 20 years of experience across consulting, media, and entrepreneurship, Kyle brings a strategic mindset and a passion for client success. Before joining PMP, he held leadership roles at Deloitte Consulting, Skydance Productions, and served as an Entrepreneur in Residence at NextGen Growth Partners. Connect with Kyle Hebenstreit:  Website: http://www.pmpmg.com/Email: khebenstreit@pmpmg.comPhone: 3174109640LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hhebenstreit/& https://www.linkedin.com/company/pmpmgFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/pmpmgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/pmpmarketinggroup/ Connect with Steve Fretzin:LinkedIn: Steve FretzinTwitter: @stevefretzinInstagram: @fretzinsteveFacebook: Fretzin, Inc.Website: Fretzin.comEmail: Steve@Fretzin.comBook: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more!YouTube: Steve FretzinCall Steve directly at 847-602-6911 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Ed Levy discuss:Building and nurturing authentic client relationships in professional servicesIncreasing referrals through trust and engagementThe psychological value of personalized client appreciationThe role of networking and peer communities in growing a legal practice Key Takeaways:Small, personal gestures—like handwritten notes or thoughtful gifts—can leave a lasting emotional impact and increase client loyalty.Lawyers who genuinely engage with clients beyond transactions are more likely to receive organic referrals.Membership in curated networking groups like Provisors can create structured opportunities to both give and receive high-value referrals.Understanding what truly matters to a client—personally and professionally—helps legal professionals build trust and long-term partnerships. "The most important thing, even with no budget at all, is to separate the business from the appreciation and the emotional connections that you're trying to build." —  Ed Levy Got a challenge growing your law practice? Email me at steve@fretzin.com with your toughest question, and I'll answer it live on the show—anonymously, just using your first name! Thank you to our Sponsors!Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/ Ready to grow your law practice without selling or chasing? Book your free 30-minute strategy session now—let's make this your breakout year: https://fretzin.com/ Episode References: Got Your Attention? by Sam Horn: https://www.amazon.com/Got-Your-Attention-Intrigue-Connect/dp/1626562504 About Ed Levy: Ed Levy is the owner and president of Edventure Promotions, a company built on two core principles: spend clients' money as if it were our own and exhaust all possibilities to deliver exceptional results. With over 20 years of experience, Ed has led the company to become a trusted partner to globally recognized brands and organizations of all sizes. He created I Love My PI Lawyer—a groundbreaking program that uses curated gifting experiences to help personal injury lawyers deepen client relationships, increase referrals, and stand out in a competitive market. Ed's approach emphasizes promotional products as strategic communication tools that drive measurable engagement and campaign success. He remains passionate about helping PI lawyers and professionals elevate their marketing strategies through innovative, results-driven solutions. Connect with Ed Levy:  Website: https://www.edventurepromotions.com/ilovemypilawyerLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/edlevy/ & https://www.linkedin.com/company/edventure-promotions/ Connect with Steve Fretzin:LinkedIn: Steve FretzinTwitter: @stevefretzinInstagram: @fretzinsteveFacebook: Fretzin, Inc.Website: Fretzin.comEmail: Steve@Fretzin.comBook: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more!YouTube: Steve FretzinCall Steve directly at 847-602-6911 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Alex Geisler discuss:Building long-term client loyalty in legal practiceStructuring legal work around client expectations and needsImproving legal service delivery through lean process thinkingDeveloping deeper relationships through proactive, strategic communication Key Takeaways:Long-term client loyalty is built through the TREE approach: Transparency in communication, Reliability in service, Efficiency in delivery, and clear Expectations that align with the client's goals.Lawyers can create stronger, “stickier” client relationships by going beyond transactional work and offering value through strategic thinking and curiosity.A structured approach to legal work—planning, executing, reviewing, and improving—can lead to better results, stronger client trust, and greater efficiency.Understanding the client's definition of success early on, and tailoring the legal approach accordingly, is key to exceeding expectations and retaining business. "There's no substitute for knowing yourself and knowing your purpose. There's no substitute for knowing your client. And just keep checking in on yourself and checking in on your client." —  Alex GeislerGot a challenge growing your law practice? Email me at steve@fretzin.com with your toughest question, and I'll answer it live on the show—anonymously, just using your first name! Thank you to our Sponsors!Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/ Ready to grow your law practice without selling or chasing? Book your free 30-minute strategy session now—let's make this your breakout year: https://fretzin.com/ Episode References: Tao Te Ching by Lao Tzu: https://terebess.hu/english/tao/mitchell.htmlAbout Alex Geisler: Alex's career was spent in three environments: in-house, at Big Law, and with manufacturers. He then harnessed these experiences to create Lean Law, a consultancy devoted to helping lawyers turn new business into repeat business. In addition to personal coaching, his ideas can be accessed through the acclaimed Lean Adviser online curriculum, his Lean Briefing—which receives 40,000 hits each week—and his books and papers. Connect with Alex Geisler:  Website: https://www.leanlaw.co/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-geisler-05b5761a/ Connect with Steve Fretzin:LinkedIn: Steve FretzinTwitter: @stevefretzinInstagram: @fretzinsteveFacebook: Fretzin, Inc.Website: Fretzin.comEmail: Steve@Fretzin.comBook: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more!YouTube: Steve FretzinCall Steve directly at 847-602-6911Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Judy Barton discuss:Cultivating meaningful and lasting business relationshipsEffective networking techniques for lawyers and financial professionalsEstablishing credibility and attracting opportunitiesThe importance of integrity in business Key Takeaways:Effective networking is not about collecting contacts but about fostering genuine, mutually beneficial relationships that lead to long-term success.Lawyers and financial professionals should focus on providing value first, rather than immediately seeking business, to build trust and credibility.Personal branding plays a crucial role in professional growth, as a strong and authentic presence can differentiate individuals in competitive industries.Integrity and consistency in business interactions build a solid reputation, making people more likely to refer and work with you over time. "You have to make yourself memorable, but you also have to know why you're different from everybody else and why that person should hire you or engage with you as an attorney." —  Judy Barton Got a challenge growing your law practice? Email me at steve@fretzin.com with your toughest question, and I'll answer it live on the show—anonymously, just using your first name! Thank you to our Sponsors!Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/Rainmakers Roundtable: https://www.fretzin.com/lawyer-coaching-and-training/peer-advisory-groups/ About Judy Barton: Judy Barton is a Senior Client Strategist for BNY Mellon Wealth Management. In this role, she works directly with clients to address their investment and wealth management needs. Judy joined the firm in 2014 and has more than 20 years of experience in the financial services industry, as well as being a business owner for 10 years. Her previous corporate experience includes serving in finance at EDS, Nortel, and Sodexho Marriott in Boston, DC, and London. Judy received her Master in Legal Studies from the School of Law at Washington University in St. Louis and a Bachelor of Science in Finance from the University of Oklahoma. Connect with Judy Barton: Website: http://www.bny.com/wealthEmail: judy.barton@bny.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/judy-barton Connect with Steve Fretzin:LinkedIn: Steve FretzinTwitter: @stevefretzinInstagram: @fretzinsteveFacebook: Fretzin, Inc.Website: Fretzin.comEmail: Steve@Fretzin.comBook: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more!YouTube: Steve FretzinCall Steve directly at 847-602-6911  Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Michael Vater discuss:Growth and networking beyond traditional legal marketingLeveraging legal tech and AI to enhance efficiencyBuilding strategic partnerships for sustainable growthEffectively balancing leadership, operations, and legal work Key Takeaways:Lawyers should build strategic partnerships with realtors, title agents, and medical professionals who connect with potential clients needing legal services instead of relying solely on attorney referrals.Generative AI tools enhance legal research by cross-referencing case law and statutes, helping attorneys find crucial precedents faster and more accurately.Zoom court appearances reduce travel time and create "bonus time" for attorneys to focus on business development and client acquisition.Law firms often let accounts receivable grow unchecked, but strict payment policies like upfront retainers or automated billing prevent financial strain and ensure cash flow. "The world is constantly changing. If you fail to change with it, you will be left behind." —  Michael Vater Got a challenge growing your law practice? Email me at steve@fretzin.com with your toughest question, and I'll answer it live on the show—anonymously, just using your first name! Thank you to our Sponsors!Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/Rainmakers Roundtable: https://www.fretzin.com/lawyer-coaching-and-training/peer-advisory-groups/ Episode References: The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey: https://www.amazon.com/Habits-Highly-Effective-People-Powerful/dp/0743269519 About Michael Vater: Michael Vater, Esq., Managing Partner of The Ticktin Law Group in South Florida, has successfully litigated complex cases across the U.S. and abroad, including over 20 Florida counties, California, Texas, Pennsylvania, Ohio, South Carolina, and Iceland, where his victory set a European Union precedent on consumer rights in aviation disputes. Since joining the firm in 2010, he has specialized in entertainment, personal injury, and real estate litigation, serving as lead counsel in over 1,600 cases and litigating 100+ Jury and Non-Jury Trials. Recognized by Super Lawyers as a Rising Star, awarded to only 2.5% of Florida lawyers, he has also been featured in Authority Magazine, Lawyers of Distinction, Business Daily Media, and PacerMonitor. Connect with Michael Vater:  Website: https://legalbrains.com/Email: mvater@legalbrains.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ticktin-law-group-p.a./Twitter: https://x.com/LegalBrainsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheTicktinLawGroup/#Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/legalbrains/# Connect with Steve Fretzin:LinkedIn: Steve FretzinTwitter: @stevefretzinInstagram: @fretzinsteveFacebook: Fretzin, Inc.Website: Fretzin.comEmail: Steve@Fretzin.comBook: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more!YouTube: Steve FretzinCall Steve directly at 847-602-6911  Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

Steve Fretzin joins up for Episode 93 to discuss coaching for Personal Injury Attorneys. Steve works with solo attorneys on up to multi-million dollar firms with multiple attorneys. In this podcast, Steve discusses planning, business development, administration, intake, tech stack, systems and creating time. He helps attorneys learn leadership, hire the right people and scale with peer groups, accountability & one on one coaching. We also touch on his podcast, "Be That Lawyer". It's a great episode. Tune in now. Visit Steve online and check his podcast out here: https://fretzin.com/. See all episodes or subscribe to the Personal Injury Marketing Minute here: https://optimizemyfirm.com/podcasts/. Transcript coming soon.

In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Tom Ciesielka discuss:The role of public relations and reputation management in the legal industryThe importance of media visibility and thought leadership for lawyersBalancing legal ethics, confidentiality, and public exposure in marketingThe impact of social media on modern public relations strategies Key Takeaways:Media outlets prioritize availability and recognition over legal expertise—being well-known and responsive is often more important than having the best case results.Lawyers should integrate the PESO model (Paid, Earned, Shared, and Owned media) into their marketing strategy to create a balanced and effective public presence.Addressing negative media coverage should be handled with a focus on advocacy, emphasizing key legal issues and potential next steps rather than becoming defensive.Thought leadership and PR require a long-term commitment—lawyers should expect a minimum six-month investment before seeing meaningful results in recognition and business growth. "Your first obligation is to your client, not to publicizing your firm. That's just the reality of it." —  Tom Ciesielka Got a challenge growing your law practice? Email me at steve@fretzin.com with your toughest question, and I'll answer it live on the show—anonymously, just using your first name! Thank you to our Sponsors!Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/Rainmakers Roundtable: https://www.fretzin.com/lawyer-coaching-and-training/peer-advisory-groups/ Episode References: LawHer Podcast by Sonya Palmer: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lawher/id1599413853Personal Injury Mastermind Conference (PIMCON), October 5–8, 2025 in Scottsdale, Arizona: https://www.pimcon.org/The 1-Page Marketing Plan by Allan Dib: https://www.amazon.com/1-Page-Marketing-Plan-Customers-Money/dp/1989025013/ About Tom Ciesielka: Tom Ciesielka, President of TC Public Relations, has over 25 years of experience in public relations, marketing, and business development. He helps clients manage their reputation through crisis communications, thought leadership, and media coverage in outlets like The Wall Street Journal, CNN, NPR, and Fox News. Before founding TC Public Relations, he worked in film sales—representing Paramount, MGM, and New Line Cinema—and as marketing director for the Museum of Broadcast Communications. Originally from Philadelphia, he built his firm in Chicago on integrity, strategy, and innovation. Now in its third decade, TC Public Relations continues to refine media strategies that elevate client visibility. Connect with Tom Ciesielka:  Website: https://tcpr.net/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomasciesielka/Twitter: https://x.com/TomciesielkaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/tcpublicrelations/ Connect with Steve Fretzin:LinkedIn: Steve FretzinTwitter: @stevefretzinInstagram: @fretzinsteveFacebook: Fretzin, Inc.Website: Fretzin.comEmail: Steve@Fretzin.comBook: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more!YouTube: Steve FretzinCall Steve directly at 847-602-6911 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Jim Ries discuss:Why business development is a critical yet often overlooked skill for lawyersThe role of networking in long-term professional successHow adopting a giver's mentality leads to stronger professional relationshipsBest practices and common mistakes in networking and relationship-building Key Takeaways:Taking a few minutes to research a common connection before meetings and using the "FORD Method" (Family, Occupation, Recreation, Dreams) leads to more engaging and productive networking conversations.Effective networking is about quality over quantity, so instead of collecting business cards, aim for three meaningful conversations that lead to valuable follow-ups.Trust is built through consistent action, so always follow through on promises like introductions or shared resources to strengthen credibility and relationships.Business development requires patience and persistence, as long-term success comes from continuously nurturing relationships and staying top-of-mind for future opportunities. "The phrase I like to use is not "give to get"—that sounds like expecting something in return. The phrase I use is "give to give"—give because you want to… because it feels good… and just keep giving. That's when people know you, like you, and trust you." —  Jim Ries Got a challenge growing your law practice? Email me at steve@fretzin.com with your toughest question, and I'll answer it live on the show—anonymously, just using your first name! Thank you to our Sponsors!Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/Rainmakers Roundtable: https://www.fretzin.com/lawyer-coaching-and-training/peer-advisory-groups/ Episode References: The Go-Giver by Bob Burg and John David Mann: https://www.amazon.com/Go-Giver-Expanded-Little-Powerful-Business/dp/1591848288The Little Red Book of Selling by Jeffrey Gitomer: https://www.amazon.com/Little-Red-Book-Selling-Principles/dp/1885167601The Sales Bible by Jeffrey Gitomer: https://www.amazon.com/Sales-Bible-Ultimate-Resource-Jeffrey/dp/B00DEK8F8M About Jim Ries: Jim Ries, Director of Business Development at Offit Kurman, connects business owners with the right attorneys across 30+ practice areas. Known as the "Legal BD Guy," he ensures clients aren't underserved, overcharged, or ignored. As a trusted legal concierge, he helps business owners frustrated with their current representation. A passionate networker, Jim loves one-on-one Zoom meetings to build connections and provide legal solutions. Connect with Jim Ries: Website: http://www.offitkurman.com/Email: jries@offitkurman.comPhone: 410-733-6133LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimrieslegalbdguy/ & https://www.linkedin.com/company/offit-kurman/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jim.ries Connect with Steve Fretzin:LinkedIn: Steve FretzinTwitter: @stevefretzinInstagram: @fretzinsteveFacebook: Fretzin, Inc.Website: Fretzin.comEmail: Steve@Fretzin.comBook: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more!YouTube: Steve FretzinCall Steve directly at 847-602-6911  Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

In this episode, Steve Fretzin and David Ackert discuss:The importance of strategic networkingLeveraging existing contacts for business growthThe role of influence and prioritization in business developmentThe psychology behind relationship building Key Takeaways:Attendees should prioritize learning about others, finding strategic partners, and providing value instead of aggressively selling, as networking is about relationships, not transactions.Rather than amassing connections, professionals should build a “shortlist” of key clients, dormant contacts, and high-value prospects for deeper, more meaningful engagement.Research shows it takes about 14 interactions from first contact to first contract, so business developers must stay consistent and strategic instead of giving up early.The best strategic partners should be assessed on chemistry (rapport), commerce potential (key contacts), capabilities (competence), and collaboration (willingness to reciprocate). "What we found is that it generally takes our successful users about 14 interactions between first contact and first contract." —  David AckertGot a challenge growing your law practice? Email me at steve@fretzin.com with your toughest question, and I'll answer it live on the show—anonymously, just using your first name! Thank you to our Sponsors!Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/Rainmakers Roundtable: https://www.fretzin.com/lawyer-coaching-and-training/peer-advisory-groups/ Episode References: Smart Collaboration by Heidi K. Gardner: https://www.amazon.com/Smart-Collaboration-Professionals-Succeed-Breaking/dp/1633691101 About David Ackert: David is the Co-Founder and CEO of Ackert, Inc. and PipelinePlus and a respected business development thought leader. For over two decades, he has pioneered revenue acceleration programs for professional services firms and founded ventures like Legal Lift, the MLR100, and PipelinePlus. His award-winning programs and software have been featured in NLJ's Technologies on the Rise. A sought-after speaker, he keynotes partner retreats, industry conferences, and lectures at USC, Carnegie Mellon, and UCLA School of Law. He is also the author of The Short List and a contributor to The Wall Street Journal, Above the Law, and Law.com. Connect with David Ackert:  Website: http://www.pipelineplus.com/Email: david@pipelineplus.comBook: The Short List by David Ackert: https://www.amazon.com/Short-List-Business-Development-Focusing/dp/B0DCQ2Q8MSLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidackert/ Connect with Steve Fretzin:LinkedIn: Steve FretzinTwitter: @stevefretzinInstagram: @fretzinsteveFacebook: Fretzin, Inc.Website: Fretzin.comEmail: Steve@Fretzin.comBook: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more!YouTube: Steve FretzinCall Steve directly at 847-602-6911  Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Kyle Harbaugh discuss:Challenges in law firm business operationsThe importance of business strategy in law firmsHiring and leadership in law firmsLeveraging AI and technology for growth Key Takeaways:Many attorneys excel in legal practice but struggle with business management because law school does not prepare them for running a firm, resulting in inefficiencies and unnecessary stress.Most law firms lack a clearly defined and well-communicated vision, leading to misalignment within their teams and making it harder to attract and retain the right talent.Hiring mistakes often stem from relying too much on gut instinct instead of structured assessments and long-term goal alignment, which leads to high turnover and poor culture fit.AI-driven tools can help law firms make smarter business decisions by identifying growth opportunities and ensuring new hires align with the firm's culture and objectives. "Just because they are very successful in one role, it doesn't mean they're going to be successful when you elevate them." —  Kyle Harbaugh Got a challenge growing your law practice? Email me at steve@fretzin.com with your toughest question, and I'll answer it live on the show—anonymously, just using your first name! Thank you to our Sponsors!Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/Rainmakers Roundtable: https://www.fretzin.com/lawyer-coaching-and-training/peer-advisory-groups/ Episode References: The Game with Alex Hormozi: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-game-with-alex-hormozi/id1254720112$100M Offers by Alex Hormozi: https://www.amazon.com/100M-Offers-People-Stupid-Saying/dp/1737475731 About Kyle Harbaugh: Kyle Harbaugh is the co-founder of Chief GO Officers, LLC, a business consulting firm specializing in law firm growth, operations, and organizational development. With 14+ years of experience, he focuses on management, business planning, and coaching to help firms scale while improving efficiency and client satisfaction. His approach integrates business intelligence, automation, and AI tools like STEP Ai and Right Hire Ai. Offering group and 1:1 coaching, fractional implementation, and strategic growth systems, Kyle helps law firms optimize profitability, branding, and client acquisition for predictable revenue and leadership excellence. Connect with Kyle Harbaugh:  Website: https://www.chiefgoofficers.com/Email: KyleH@ChiefGoOfficers.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyle-harbaugh-chief-go-officers/ & https://www.linkedin.com/company/chief-go-officers-llcConnect with Steve Fretzin:LinkedIn: Steve FretzinTwitter: @stevefretzinInstagram: @fretzinsteveFacebook: Fretzin, Inc.Website: Fretzin.comEmail: Steve@Fretzin.comBook: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more!YouTube: Steve FretzinCall Steve directly at 847-602-6911  Audio production by  Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Dennis Meador discuss:How lawyers can market themselves effectively in an increasingly competitive industryThe role of personal branding in helping attorneys differentiate themselves from competitorsWhy podcasting is a valuable tool for business development and client acquisitionAdapting to changing trends in SEO, social media, and content marketing Key Takeaways:Most potential clients check out a lawyer's website before making contact, so their online presence should authentically reflect who they are and how they can help.Lawyers should avoid “random acts of marketing” and instead build a cohesive strategy centered around their ideal client profile, jurisdictional realities, and brand identity.Podcasting is not about going viral; it's about targeting the right audience—50 engaged listeners in a lawyer's market are more valuable than 50,000 global views with no conversion potential.The best marketing doesn't just tell potential clients what a lawyer does; it shows how and why they do it differently, using real-world examples and insights that make them the obvious choice. "We're not trying to get you to be the foremost American divorce lawyer—we want you to be Chicagoland's high-net-worth or father-focused divorce lawyer... or one that focuses on the men's side. And when you become that—now you're owning your market, and it's a huge benefit to you." —  Dennis Meador Got a challenge growing your law practice? Email me at steve@fretzin.com with your toughest question, and I'll answer it live on the show—anonymously, just using your first name! Thank you to our Sponsors!Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/Rainmakers Roundtable: https://www.fretzin.com/lawyer-coaching-and-training/peer-advisory-groups/ Episode References: Office Ladies Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/office-ladies/id1480311435 About Dennis Meador: Dennis Meador is the CEO and Founder of The Legal Podcast Network, dedicated to providing turnkey podcasting solutions for professionals, particularly attorneys. With over 20 years of experience in legal marketing, he is passionate about helping attorneys engage more clients and establish authority in their practice areas. An entrepreneur since 14, he has built multiple businesses and successfully scaled companies to multi-million-dollar revenues. Based in Austin, TX, he enjoys traveling, snorkeling, and making BBQ on his smoker—The Notorious P.I.T.—while spending time with his wife and three grown children. Connect with Dennis Meador: Website: http://www.thelegalpodcastnetwork.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dennismeador/ & https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-legal-podcast-network/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100053762623075 & https://www.facebook.com/legalpodcastnetwork.lawyers/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/diem.today/ & https://www.instagram.com/lpnlegalpodcastnetwork/ Connect with Steve Fretzin:LinkedIn: Steve FretzinTwitter: @stevefretzinInstagram: @fretzinsteveFacebook: Fretzin, Inc.Website: Fretzin.comEmail: Steve@Fretzin.comBook: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more!YouTube: Steve FretzinCall Steve directly at 847-602-6911  Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Blake Strautins discuss:The importance of business development for lawyersHow accountability and culture shape a law firm's successTime management and delegation for legal professionalsPersonal and professional growth in legal leadership Key Takeaways:Building connections early with strategic partners, attorneys, and clients creates long-term opportunities, referrals, and career growth.A workplace culture that holds team members accountable improves productivity, reduces inefficiencies, and strengthens collaboration.Leaders who delegate effectively gain more time for key decisions, enhance firm efficiency, and empower their teams.Keeping an inbox organized by addressing, delegating, or categorizing emails prevents overwhelm, streamlines tasks, and ensures nothing important is missed. "You can learn the law, you can write great briefs, you can research out of something, but running a business is completely different; managing people is completely different. Being a good manager, a good leader—those are skills that, sadly, [law schools] just don't teach you." —  Blake Strautins Got a challenge growing your law practice? Email me at steve@fretzin.com with your toughest question, and I'll answer it live on the show—anonymously, just using your first name! Thank you to our Sponsors!Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/Rainmakers Roundtable: https://www.fretzin.com/lawyer-coaching-and-training/peer-advisory-groups/ Episode References: Multipliers by Liz Wiseman: https://www.amazon.com/Multipliers-Best-Leaders-Everyone-Smarter/dp/0061964395 About Blake Strautins: Blake A. Strautins is a co-owner and managing partner of Kluever Law Group, LLC, where he heads the firm's litigation department. Blake has been practicing in the field of complex litigation his entire legal career, beginning with class action litigation in 2007 and transitioning to commercial and real estate litigation in 2014, where he continues to hone his legal skills to this day. Beyond helping clients solve problems through creative solutions, both before and during formal litigation, Blake is also an accomplished appellate lawyer with numerous published decisions under his belt. Blake takes great pride in charting the firm's path forward into continued growth and success in partnership with its diverse client base. Connect with Blake Strautins:  Website: http://www.klueverlawgroup.com/Email: bstrautins@klueverlawgroup.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blake-a-strautins/ Connect with Steve Fretzin:LinkedIn: Steve FretzinTwitter: @stevefretzinInstagram: @fretzinsteveFacebook: Fretzin, Inc.Website: Fretzin.comEmail: Steve@Fretzin.comBook: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more!YouTube: Steve FretzinCall Steve directly at 847-602-6911  Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Mina Haque discuss:Overcoming challenges in growing a law practiceThe impact of digital tools on professional successEssential skills lawyers need beyond legal expertiseThe mindset shifts necessary for entrepreneurial success Key Takeaways:Solo law practice has become significantly more accessible due to virtual offices, law practice management software, and online marketing, reducing overhead costs and easing client acquisition.Lawyers should resist the temptation to accept every client and instead focus on a defined practice area to build a strong reputation and avoid operational inefficiencies.Effective delegation, including outsourcing bookkeeping, marketing, and administrative tasks, allows solo practitioners to maximize billable hours and focus on client service.Developing an online presence through SEO, blogging, and thought leadership is crucial for standing out and attracting clients in a competitive legal market. "Show your value to your client. Sometimes it may be outside the scope of the service, but go above and beyond and try to have that servant leadership mindset, because the right client will recognize your talent, and you may find yourself in the right place." —  Mina Haque Got a challenge growing your law practice? Email me at steve@fretzin.com with your toughest question, and I'll answer it live on the show—anonymously, just using your first name! Thank you to our Sponsors!Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/Rainmakers Roundtable: https://www.fretzin.com/lawyer-coaching-and-training/peer-advisory-groups/ Episode References: Likeable Badass by Alison Fragale: https://www.amazon.com/Likeable-Badass-Women-Success-Deserve/dp/0385549148 About Mina Haque: Mohaimina "Mina" Haque, CEO of Tony Roma's, leads its strategic transformation, focusing on restructuring, growth, and global expansion. She also runs a law firm specializing in immigration and corporate law, with a focus on mergers and acquisitions. An Adjunct Professor at American University Washington College of Law, she teaches law practice management. Recognized for her leadership, Mina was named one of Women We Admire's Top Women Leaders of DC (2024) and IAOTP's Top Attorney of the Year (2023). Washingtonian Magazine honored her as an Outstanding Woman in DC (2021), and she is a member of Chief, a premier network for senior women leaders. Connect with Mina Haque:  Website: https://attorneymina.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/minahaque/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/attorneyminadc/ Connect with Steve Fretzin:LinkedIn: Steve FretzinTwitter: @stevefretzinInstagram: @fretzinsteveFacebook: Fretzin, Inc.Website: Fretzin.comEmail: Steve@Fretzin.comBook: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more!YouTube: Steve FretzinCall Steve directly at 847-602-6911  Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Belle Walker discuss:Why law firms struggle with inefficiencies and miscommunicationThe impact of unclear roles and accountability gaps in law firmsHow legal technology and AI are changing law firm operationsWhy structured processes are essential for business growth and client satisfaction Key Takeaways:Lawyers often assume their team understands their expectations, but without clear and explicit communication, misalignment can lead to inefficiencies, missed deadlines, and frustration for both staff and clients.Law firms aiming for maximum efficiency sometimes eliminate too much redundancy, making them less resilient when unexpected challenges arise, so finding the right balance between streamlining and maintaining flexibility is critical.Leveraging automation tools and legal technology can significantly reduce manual workload and improve accuracy, but firms must carefully assess their processes and ensure proper adoption to avoid resistance and implementation failures.Successfully implementing operational changes in a law firm requires leaders to communicate the ‘why' behind the change, focusing on goals and benefits rather than simply dictating new processes, which helps secure team buy-in and long-term success. "Documentation goes a long way, and the lawyers themselves don't need to be the ones doing the documentation." —  Belle WalkerGot a challenge growing your law practice? Email me at steve@fretzin.com with your toughest question, and I'll answer it live on the show—anonymously, just using your first name! Thank you to our Sponsors!Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/Rainmakers Roundtable: https://www.fretzin.com/lawyer-coaching-and-training/peer-advisory-groups/ Episode References: Perform To Win by Mark Powell & Jonathan Gifford: https://www.amazon.com/Perform-Win-Unlocking-Personal-Business/dp/1910649252 About Belle Walker: Belle Walker, Founder and CEO of Belleview Consulting, takes organizations from Friction to Function, recapturing lost efficiency and engagement for companies across industries. Now the international bestselling author of Generation Innovation and a TEDx speaker, Belle has also built several successful teams for HERE Technology, including one responsible for the quality of maps for autonomous vehicles, and received two patents. Belle's career began at Google, building a nation-wide aerial photography operation, and she has led numerous different teams since. Belle holds a Mechanical Engineering degree from Harvard and a Systems Engineering master's from the University of Southern California, where her research studied organizations as systems. Connect with Belle Walker:  Website: https://belleviewconsulting.com/Email: belle@belleviewconsulting.comBook: Generation Innovation: https://www.amazon.com/Generation-Innovation-Business-Journey-Success/dp/B0CP5RYFKH/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bellekwalker/ & https://www.linkedin.com/company/belleview-consulting/ Connect with Steve Fretzin:LinkedIn: Steve FretzinTwitter: @stevefretzinInstagram: @fretzinsteveFacebook: Fretzin, Inc.Website: Fretzin.comEmail: Steve@Fretzin.comBook: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more!YouTube: Steve FretzinCall Steve directly at 847-602-6911  Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

Most lawyers dream of building a thriving, successful practice—but why do so few actually achieve it?The truth is, being a great lawyer isn't enough. If you want consistent growth, predictable revenue, and freedom from the daily grind, you need a proven system for business development.In this episode, Sam Mollaei and guest Steve Fretzin reveal the biggest mistakes law firm owners make, how to attract high-quality clients without burnout, and what it takes to shift from lawyer to CEO. Steve shares game-changing insights on business development, peer advisory groups, and leveraging technology to scale effectively. If you're ready to stop leaving money on the table and build a firm that works for you, this conversation is a must-listen.Want to implement these strategies faster? For a limited time, you can book a free strategy call before Feb 28 to get:✔ A custom intake audit to pinpoint weak spots in your client conversion process✔ Access to an exclusive event recording with battle-tested intake strategies✔ Proven scripts & automation tools to streamline and scale effortlessly

In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Mike Chastaine discuss:Managing time effectively and focusing on high-value tasksLaw firm growth and business developmentThe psychology of productivityWork-life balance and self-improvement Key Takeaways:Prioritizing control over your daily schedule is essential because, rather than trying to manage time itself, lawyers should focus on managing their actions by scheduling focused work blocks, minimizing distractions, and ensuring that key priorities are intentionally planned.Using the 80/20 rule can drastically improve efficiency by identifying and focusing on the 20% of tasks that produce 80% of the results while delegating or eliminating lower-value work that consumes time without contributing significantly to success.Starting the day with meditation, gratitude journaling, and small victories (like making your bed) sets the tone for a more productive and controlled day.Applying the Profit First method to law firm finances can help ensure long-term financial stability by reversing the traditional approach to budgeting, prioritizing profit from the start, monitoring cash flow daily, and making strategic spending decisions only after ensuring profitability. "There's no such thing as time management, because you don't manage time. What you manage is your conduct." —  Mike ChastaineGot a challenge growing your law practice? Email me at steve@fretzin.com with your toughest question, and I'll answer it live on the show—anonymously, just using your first name! Thank you to our Sponsors!Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/Rainmakers Roundtable: https://www.fretzin.com/lawyer-coaching-and-training/peer-advisory-groups/ Episode References: Profit First by Mike Michalowicz: https://www.amazon.com/Profit-First-Transform-Cash-Eating-Money-Making/dp/073521414X/ About Mike Chastaine: Mike Chastaine is an award-winning attorney, speaker, and author with decades of experience in and out of the courtroom. After 16 years as a public defender and six years at a large firm, he founded the Chastaine Law Office in 2007, growing it into a seven-figure practice recognized as the Best Criminal Defense Firm in Northern California. In 2021, he sold the firm and shifted his focus to coaching and consulting, helping attorneys build successful, sustainable practices.  Connect with Mike Chastaine:  Website: https://michaelchastaine.com/Email: mike@chastainejones.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-chastaine-4683104/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mike.chastaine Connect with Steve Fretzin:LinkedIn: Steve FretzinTwitter: @stevefretzinInstagram: @fretzinsteveFacebook: Fretzin, Inc.Website: Fretzin.comEmail: Steve@Fretzin.comBook: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more!YouTube: Steve FretzinCall Steve directly at 847-602-6911  Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Bruce La Fetra discuss:The importance of understanding your best clientsMarketing strategy for law firms in a competitive landscapeThe difference between experts and advisorsThe power of client testimonials and validation Key Takeaways:The best clients are not only more profitable but also easier to work with, as they buy faster, pay more, and create fewer headaches, making them essential for long-term business growth.Law firm marketing should shift from highlighting expertise to showcasing the real-world impact of legal services, such as improving business operations, reducing risks, or increasing revenue.Client testimonials are most effective when they emphasize specific, measurable outcomes—like increased working capital or faster contract execution—rather than vague endorsements.A law firm's messaging, from its website to client conversations, should be strategically crafted to reflect what its best clients truly value, ensuring better alignment and stronger relationships. "So, a lot of times, people don't know why their firm is successful. They know they have clients that they love working with, and those clients would go nowhere else, but they don't know why." —  Bruce La Fetra Got a challenge growing your law practice? Email me at steve@fretzin.com with your toughest question, and I'll answer it live on the show—anonymously, just using your first name! Thank you to our Sponsors!Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/Rainmakers Roundtable: https://www.fretzin.com/lawyer-coaching-and-training/peer-advisory-groups/ Episode References: The History of English Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-history-of-english-podcast/id538608536 About Bruce La Fetra: Law firm owners hire Bruce La Fetra to transform their marketing and positioning by attracting clients who buy faster, pay more, and make more referrals. Rainmakers call Bruce "The Client Whisperer" because he teaches them—and their firms—how to Think Like Your Best Clients.Bruce takes a unique approach to understanding Best Clients. He reverse-engineers the best relationships so firms can clone their Best Clients by doing more of what they do best. Connect with Bruce La Fetra:  Website: http://eastwoodstrategy.com/Email: bruce@easteoodstrategy.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blafetra/ Connect with Steve Fretzin:LinkedIn: Steve FretzinTwitter: @stevefretzinInstagram: @fretzinsteveFacebook: Fretzin, Inc.Website: Fretzin.comEmail: Steve@Fretzin.comBook: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more!YouTube: Steve FretzinCall Steve directly at 847-602-6911  Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

In this episode, Steve Fretzin and James Rodgers discuss:Evolution and confusion surrounding DEI in the workplaceHuman nature's role in shaping workplace dynamicsAI and automation as the next diversity challengeManaging generational differences in the workforce Key Takeaways:DEI has repeatedly risen and fallen as activists and organizations redefine it, creating confusion over its true purpose.The next diversity challenge extends beyond human differences to integrating AI, robotics, and automation into the workforce.Instead of hiring based on identity markers like race or gender, leaders should prioritize missing perspectives that drive innovation and problem-solving.Effectively managing generational differences requires direct engagement with individuals rather than relying on broad assumptions about their work ethics or expectations. "Forty years ago, the new reality was that there was going to be a new mix of human beings in the workplace. Now, the new reality is that there is going to be a mix of humans and non-human entities in the workplace." —  James Rodgers Got a challenge growing your law practice? Email me at steve@fretzin.com with your toughest question, and I'll answer it live on the show—anonymously, just using your first name! Thank you to our Sponsors!Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/Rainmakers Roundtable: https://www.fretzin.com/lawyer-coaching-and-training/peer-advisory-groups/ Episode References: Behind The Human with Marc Champagne: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/behind-the-human-with-marc-champagne/id1342231432 About James Rodgers: Dr. James O. Rodgers, known as “The Diversity Coach,” has spent 35+ years pioneering diversity management as a core enterprise discipline. Recognized as the #1 thought leader in the field, his books Managing Differently and Diversity Training That Generates Real Change are used in MBA programs and corporate initiatives worldwide. By blending sound management principles with practical diversity strategies, he emphasizes simplicity, pragmatism, and sustainability. He also coaches C-suite executives and directs the Executive Academy of ITSMF, preparing leaders of color for a changing world. Connect with James Rodgers:  Website: http://jamesorodgers.com/Email: jora@thediversitycoach.comBook: https://www.amazon.com/stores/James-O.-Rodgers/author/B001K7Y9WCLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesorodgers/ & https://www.linkedin.com/company/51680091/admin/dashboard/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/james.rodgers.14661261/ & https://www.facebook.com/epiphanythebooks/ Connect with Steve Fretzin:LinkedIn: Steve FretzinTwitter: @stevefretzinInstagram: @fretzinsteveFacebook: Fretzin, Inc.Website: Fretzin.comEmail: Steve@Fretzin.comBook: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more!YouTube: Steve FretzinCall Steve directly at 847-602-6911  Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Saja Raoof discuss:Introversion in professional networkingBuilding a legal practice as an introvertManaging energy and making meaningful connectionsThe role of systems in business development Key Takeaways:Taking intentional breaks during networking events, such as stepping away for alone time, is a crucial strategy for introverts to manage their energy and remain engaged without feeling overwhelmed.Introverts can make networking conversations more comfortable and effective by asking open-ended questions, such as ‘How did you get into your career?,' which encourages others to share while allowing them to listen rather than dominate the discussion.Careful preparation before networking events—such as identifying key people to meet, reaching out in advance, and setting clear goals like making three meaningful connections—helps introverts feel more in control and makes the experience less daunting.Although introverts may shy away from the spotlight, embracing opportunities to speak, give testimonials, or lead discussions allows them to establish credibility and expand their network without relying on small talk or forced social interactions. "I am so outspoken about being an introvert exactly to send a message to the people who are a little too close, or just, you know, it's okay to embrace and it's okay to talk about." —  Saja Raoof Be That Lawyer is now syndicated on Above the Law! Catch all our new episodes and my monthly column there—spread the word and help us grow: https://abovethelaw.com/ Thank you to our Sponsors!Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/Rainmakers Roundtable: https://www.fretzin.com/lawyer-coaching-and-training/peer-advisory-groups/ Episode References: Quiet by Susan Cain: https://www.amazon.com/Quiet-Power-Introverts-World-Talking/dp/0307352153Networking for People Who Hate Networking by Devora Zack: https://www.amazon.com/Networking-People-Who-Hate-Underconnected/dp/1605095222 About Saja Raoof: Saja Raoof is a San Francisco-based business immigration attorney. Though an introvert, she owes much of her professional success to networking. Saja will share tips on how introverts can not only survive but thrive at networking, and how they can leverage their strengths to build meaningful business relationships. Connect with Saja Raoof:  Website: https://www.sar.law/Email: sar@sar.lawLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sajaraoof/ Connect with Steve Fretzin:LinkedIn: Steve FretzinTwitter: @stevefretzinInstagram: @fretzinsteveFacebook: Fretzin, Inc.Website: Fretzin.comEmail: Steve@Fretzin.comBook: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more!YouTube: Steve FretzinCall Steve directly at 847-602-6911  Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Jay McAllister discuss:The evolving role of AI in legal practiceLeveraging AI for business development and marketingEthical and risk considerations when using AI in lawThe future of legal technology and the rise of agentic AI Key Takeaways:Many law firms have shifted from traditional keyword-based legal research to AI-powered tools that analyze case law and provide curated, context-aware results, significantly reducing time spent on research.Insurance carriers and other clients are leveraging data analytics and AI to challenge the hours law firms bill, forcing firms to adopt more efficient AI-driven workflows.A Stanford AI ethics professor submitted a legal brief with fabricated citations generated by AI, leading the judge to reject it outright and issue a warning that lawyers must verify AI-generated content before submitting it to court.Future AI systems will not only respond to queries but proactively complete legal tasks by recognizing key case milestones, drafting motions automatically, and sending them for attorney review. "There were jobs that were lost, but ultimately, I don't think of it as a job that was lost. These jobs were transitioned to perform more useful, more useful activities." —  Jay McAllister Be That Lawyer is now syndicated on Above the Law! Catch all our new episodes and my monthly column there—spread the word and help us grow: https://abovethelaw.com/ Thank you to our Sponsors!Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/Rainmakers Roundtable: https://www.fretzin.com/lawyer-coaching-and-training/peer-advisory-groups/ Episode References: The Game with Alex Hormozi: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-game-with-alex-hormozi/id1254720112$100M Offers by Alex Hormozi: https://www.amazon.com/100M-Offers-People-Stupid-Saying/dp/1737475731 About Jay McAllister: Jay McAllister is the CEO of Paragon Tech. Driven by an unquenchable thirst for applied learning and innovation, Jay helps lawyers get the most out of their technology. In other words, they go from low-tech and busy to high-tech and productive. Connect with Jay McAllister:  Website: http://paragontechit.com/Email: jay@paragontechit.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaymcallisterit/ Connect with Steve Fretzin:LinkedIn: Steve FretzinTwitter: @stevefretzinInstagram: @fretzinsteveFacebook: Fretzin, Inc.Website: Fretzin.comEmail: Steve@Fretzin.comBook: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more!YouTube: Steve FretzinCall Steve directly at 847-602-6911  Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. d

In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Ken Hardison discuss:Growing a law firm that runs independently and becomes a sellable assetBuilding relationships and giving value firstUsing structured processes and key metrics to drive predictable growthMentorship, collaboration, and shared expertise Key Takeaways:A law firm can only be sold for real value if it operates independently, maintains a steady case pipeline, and tracks performance through key metrics, ensuring buyers see it as a sustainable business rather than a personal brand.Lawyers who struggle with referrals often fail to ask, lack the right approach, or don't invest time in relationship-building, but those who prioritize value, reciprocity, and consistent engagement create a steady flow of high-quality referrals.Most lawyers lose business due to poor follow-up, but staying top-of-mind with referral sources through personalized thank-yous, occasional gifts, and regular check-ins ensures they continue sending cases your way.True financial success in law comes not from chasing profits but from focusing on genuinely helping people, because when clients and colleagues trust that you care, they are far more likely to send you business. "You get what you want out of life by helping enough other people get what they want out of life.." —  Ken Hardison Be That Lawyer is now syndicated on Above the Law! Catch all our new episodes and my monthly column there—spread the word and help us grow: https://abovethelaw.com/ Thank you to our Sponsors!Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/Rainmakers Roundtable: https://www.fretzin.com/lawyer-coaching-and-training/peer-advisory-groups/ Episode References: Mastering the Rockefeller Habits by Verne Harnish: https://www.amazon.com/Mastering-Rockefeller-Habits-22nd-Anniversary-dp-B0CXCDYCHN/dp/B0CXCDYCHN/ About Ken Hardison: Kenneth L. Hardison is a lawyer, author, and founder of PILMMA, the Personal Injury Lawyers Marketing & Management Association. Known as the "Millionaire Maker," Ken has grown and sold two multi-million-dollar law firms and now helps lawyers across the U.S. grow and scale their law firms to build the practice of their dreams. Connect with Ken Hardison:  Website: https://www.pilmma.org/Email: ken@pilmma.orgLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenhardison/Twitter: https://twitter.com/PILMMAFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/PILMMAInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/pilmma/ Connect with Steve Fretzin:LinkedIn: Steve FretzinTwitter: @stevefretzinInstagram: @fretzinsteveFacebook: Fretzin, Inc.Website: Fretzin.comEmail: Steve@Fretzin.comBook: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more!YouTube: Steve FretzinCall Steve directly at 847-602-6911  Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Chuck Andrews discuss:Challenges in making law firms and businesses scalable and saleableStrategic and mental preparation for business transitionsUnderstanding client needs as a driver for business growthOvercoming personal barriers to achieve professional success Key Takeaways:Many lawyers fail to create saleable practices because they don't view their firms as scalable assets, instead focusing solely on leveraging personal skills.Emotional and psychological unpreparedness for life after selling a business often causes transitions to fail, making mental readiness as crucial as financial planning.Business owners can significantly improve scalability and growth by conducting client surveys to understand why customers choose their services.Identifying and managing personal saboteurs, such as the need to please or overachieve, is essential for breaking patterns that hinder both business and personal progress. "The biggest challenge an attorney has is recognizing that they can build their practice into a saleable practice." —  Chuck Andrews Be That Lawyer is now syndicated on Above the Law! Catch all our new episodes and my monthly column there—spread the word and help us grow: https://abovethelaw.com/ Thank you to our Sponsors!Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/Rainmakers Roundtable: https://www.fretzin.com/lawyer-coaching-and-training/peer-advisory-groups/ Episode References: What Happened to You? by Oprah Winfrey and Bruce D. Perry: https://www.amazon.com/What-Happened-You-Understanding-Resilience/dp/1250223180Wisdom at Work by Chip Conley: https://www.amazon.com/Wisdom-Work-Making-Modern-Elder/dp/0525572902Positive Intelligence by Shirzad Chamine: https://www.amazon.com/Positive-Intelligence-Individuals-Achieve-Potential/dp/1608322785The Fifth Discipline by Peter M. Senge: https://www.amazon.com/Fifth-Discipline-Practice-Learning-Organization/dp/0385517254 About Chuck Andrews: Chuck combines expertise in technology, M&A advisory, and executive coaching, integrating AI-driven solutions into his firm's services. Clients gain from tools like AI-based Value Drivers, a Positive Intelligence mental health app, and leadership development rooted in Vistage Peer Advisory Boards. Connect with Chuck Andrews:  Website: https://ceo15.us/Email: chuck@ceo15.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ceo15-cca/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chuckCEO15/ & https://www.facebook.com/CAndrewsCEO Connect with Steve Fretzin:LinkedIn: Steve FretzinTwitter: @stevefretzinInstagram: @fretzinsteveFacebook: Fretzin, Inc.Website: Fretzin.comEmail: Steve@Fretzin.comBook: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more!YouTube: Steve FretzinCall Steve directly at 847-602-6911  Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Sam Mollaei discuss:Strategies for scaling and automating a law firmEffective time management and focus for professionalsThe role of social media and marketing in client generationUtilizing AI and technology for efficiency in legal practice Key Takeaways:To manage time effectively, create a strict schedule using tools like Google Calendar and focus exclusively on high-value activities during concentrated work periods.Social media ads on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok are significantly more effective than Google Ads for client acquisition in 2025 due to saturation in the latter.A six-point formula for scaling a law firm includes focusing on a single niche, targeting high-value clients ($3,500+), expanding geographically, ensuring healthy cash flow, adjusting fee structures, and prioritizing continuous self-development.AI integration, such as automating lead qualification, document collection, and drafting, has become essential for running scalable and efficient law firms. "You have to create your own rules; if not, other people will make rules for you." —  Sam MollaeiGot a challenge growing your law practice? Email me at steve@fretzin.com with your toughest question, and I'll answer it live on the show—anonymously, just using your first name! Thank you to our Sponsors!Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/Rainmakers Roundtable: https://www.fretzin.com/lawyer-coaching-and-training/peer-advisory-groups/ Episode References: The 4-Hour Workweek by Timothy Ferriss: https://www.amazon.com/4-Hour-Workweek-Escape-Live-Anywhere/dp/0307465357 About Sam Mollaei: Sam Mollaei is a visionary legal disruptor, attorney, and Founder of My Legal Academy, where he helps lawyers scale and automate their law firms using cutting-edge marketing, automation, and AI tools.As the owner of 5 thriving law firms, Sam has helped over 1,260 lawyers grow their practices while reclaiming their time and improving their quality of life. Known for his innovative approach to disrupting the legal industry, Sam is passionate about helping lawyers work smarter, scale faster, and enjoy life. With a mission to empower legal professionals, Sam combines proven strategies with forward-thinking solutions to transform the way law is practiced. Connect with Sam Mollaei:  Website: https://mylegalacademy.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sammollaei/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sam.mollaei/Connect with Steve Fretzin:LinkedIn: Steve FretzinTwitter: @stevefretzinInstagram: @fretzinsteveFacebook: Fretzin, Inc.Website: Fretzin.comEmail: Steve@Fretzin.comBook: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more!YouTube: Steve FretzinCall Steve directly at 847-602-6911  Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Michael Cohen discuss:Strategies for building and maintaining a successful law practiceThe role of leadership and personal branding in legal careersOvercoming challenges and finding fulfillment in the legal professionThe importance of authenticity, advocacy, and adaptability in professional growth Key Takeaways:When hiring, be financially prepared, follow a "slow to hire, quick to fire" approach, and seek candidates whose goals align with long-term retention.Building a career aligned with passion may require sacrifices, such as taking non-traditional opportunities and traveling extensively to develop expertise and a brand.Law firms can foster equity by diversifying associates' work assignments through structured work tracking systems to prevent pigeonholing.Writing about niche cases or personal interests in law not only builds expertise but also enhances your visibility and credibility as a thought leader. "Each and every one of us is dealing with stuff that nobody else knows about… if we can just understand that fundamental truth and be kind along the way, this whole thing gets an awful lot easier to deal with." —  Michael Cohen Got a challenge growing your law practice? Email me at steve@fretzin.com with your toughest question, and I'll answer it live on the show—anonymously, just using your first name! Thank you to our Sponsors!Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/Rainmakers Roundtable: https://www.fretzin.com/lawyer-coaching-and-training/peer-advisory-groups/ Episode References: Let Them Lead: Unexpected Lessons in Leadership from America's Worst High School Hockey Team by John Bacon: https://www.amazon.com/Let-Them-Lead-Unexpected-Leadership/dp/0358533260 About Michael Cohen: Michael Cohen is a Partner in Duane Morris' Employment, Labor, Immigration, and Benefits Practice Group, focusing on employment law training and counseling in Philadelphia, where he conducts over 200 trainings annually. Inspired by his mother, who fought and won a landmark Supreme Court case for working women after being fired for her pregnancy with Michael, he has a passion for education and challenges. Michael is also a devoted husband, father, travel softball coach, and avid supporter of Philadelphia and University of Michigan sports. Connect with Michael Cohen:  Website: http://www.duanemorris.com/attorneys/michaelscohenEmail: mcohen@duanemorris.comLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/michaelscohen12 Connect with Steve Fretzin:LinkedIn: Steve FretzinTwitter: @stevefretzinInstagram: @fretzinsteveFacebook: Fretzin, Inc.Website: Fretzin.comEmail: Steve@Fretzin.comBook: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more!YouTube: Steve FretzinCall Steve directly at 847-602-6911  Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Erika Steinberg discuss:The value of having a focused marketing plan for lawyers and firmsStrategies for retaining and growing client relationshipsBuilding a personal brand using LinkedInBenefits of fractional marketing for law firms Key Takeaways:A written marketing plan provides focus, direction, and measurable goals, allowing lawyers and firms to avoid chasing "shiny objects" and instead focus on impactful projects.Lawyers often neglect past and existing clients as a source of business due to discomfort, yet these relationships often present the easiest opportunities for growth.Marketing activities should align with an individual's comfort level and schedule—focusing on actions they will actually execute.Firms undergoing mergers or lateral hires risk losing opportunities if they do not clearly communicate how the changes benefit clients and integrate new team members effectively. "The marketing activities that are best are the ones that you're going to do, the ones that fit your comfort level and your schedule." —  Erika Steinberg Got a challenge growing your law practice? Email me at steve@fretzin.com with your toughest question, and I'll answer it live on the show—anonymously, just using your first name! Thank you to our Sponsors!Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/Rainmakers Roundtable: https://www.fretzin.com/lawyer-coaching-and-training/peer-advisory-groups/ Episode References: Differently Podcast by Carla Reeves: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/differently/id1546761001 About Erika Steinberg: Erika Steinberg, founder of CMO2Go, has been working with law firms to maximize their marketing for more than 30 years. CMO2Go provides senior-level fractional marketing support to midsize law firms around the United States, supporting firms as they tackle their urgent and important marketing needs. Connect with Erika Steinberg:  Website: https://www.cmo2go.co/Email: erika@cmo2go.coLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erikasteinberg/ & https://www.linkedin.com/company/cmo2go-inc Connect with Steve Fretzin:LinkedIn: Steve FretzinTwitter: @stevefretzinInstagram: @fretzinsteveFacebook: Fretzin, Inc.Website: Fretzin.comEmail: Steve@Fretzin.comBook: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more!YouTube: Steve FretzinCall Steve directly at 847-602-6911  Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

Welcome to episode 263 of the Grow Your Law Firm podcast, hosted by Ken Hardison. In this episode, Ken sits down with Steve Fretzin, a business development coach. Steve Fretzin is dedicated to helping lawyers grow their practices without the discomfort of traditional sales tactics. Through his coaching, books, and BE THAT LAWYER podcast, Steve focuses on empowering attorneys to develop sustainable client acquisition strategies and improve time management while maintaining strong client relationships. With over two decades of experience and a passion for teaching, Steve has become a trusted advisor for attorneys aiming to achieve greater success and fulfillment in their legal careers.  What you'll learn about in this episode: Why Building Lawyer Referral Networks Is Essential for Growth Identifying lawyers in complementary practice areas ensures referrals are more effective and relevant to your target clientele. Focusing on reciprocal relationships with like-minded professionals creates a steady pipeline of new business. How Testing Referral Partners Maximizes Success Giving small tasks to potential referral partners helps assess their reliability and networking skills. Filtering out less reliable partners ensures your network consists of high-performing and mutually beneficial relationships. Why Helping Others Firsts Strengthens Professional Relationships  Offering value first, such as connections, resources, or insights, builds trust and encourages reciprocal actions. Sharing personalized gestures, like relevant articles or thoughtful gifts, deepens connections and creates lasting bonds. How Consistent Follow-Up Secures Referral Opportunities Scheduling regular check-ins with referral partners keeps relationships active and top of mind. Using tools like CRM software to rank and manage contacts ensures no valuable connection is overlooked. Why Diversifying Your Referral Team Is Crucial Maintaining multiple referral sources in key practice areas mitigates risks of dependency on a single partner. Always recruiting new contacts ensures you have backups ready when existing partnerships falter.     Resources:  https://www.fretzin.com/ https://www.fretzin.com/letstalk/ https://www.fretzin.com/podcast/episodes/ https://www.facebook.com/fretzinsteve/ https://x.com/stevefretzin?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevefretzin/    Additional Resources:  https://www.pilmma.org/aiworkshop https://www.pilmma.org/the-mastermind-effect https://www.pilmma.org/resources https://www.pilmma.org/mastermind

"When I started LawHer, only 18% of law firm partners were women. Just 3 years later, it's 22% - and that's just the beginning." - Sonya Palmer. Listen to LawHer here. From intake mastery to AI implementation, Rankings.io's VP of Operations Sonya Palmer shares the systems and strategies that actually move the needle in 2024. If you're looking to scale your firm while building a culture that attracts top talent, don't miss this special partner episode from Be That Lawyer with Steve Fritzen. In this special partner episode of Personal Injury Mastermind, we're excited to share a powerful conversation from Be That Lawyer with Steve Fritzen featuring Sonya Palmer, VP of Operations at Rankings.io and host of the LawHer podcast. From scaling operations to empowering women in legal leadership, Sonya shares insights on building successful teams and transforming law firm culture. We discuss: Why diversity in leadership leads to better client service and business outcomes How the pandemic has transformed opportunities for women in law Practical strategies for creating content and leveraging AI in legal marketing Building effective hiring and onboarding processes that identify top talent Managing underperforming employees and creating accountability The importance of establishing clear KPIs and performance metrics Why authenticity matters more than traditional networking approaches How to scale operations while maintaining quality and culture Dominate your market today. Grab a copy of Chris' latest book, Personal Injury Lawyer Marketing: From Good to GOAT.  Chris Dreyer and Rankings Details Chris Dreyer is the CEO and founder of Rankings.io, the elite legal digital marketing agency.  Rankings: Website, Instagram, Twitter Chris Dreyer: Website, Instagram Newsletters: The Dreyer Sheet  Books: Personal Injury Lawyer Marketing: From Good to GOAT; Niching Up: The Narrower the Market, the Bigger the Prize Work with Rankings: Connect Time Stamps 00:00 Intro  01:03 Leadership Philosophy & Vision  04:41 Women in Legal Leadership 09:12 Marketing & Content Strategy  13:34 AI Tools & Implementation  15:32 Hiring & Team Building  20:36 Performance Management  24:27 Scaling Operations  28:05 Future of Legal Industry  31:00 Closing Thoughts Additional Episodes You Might Enjoy 80. Mike Papantonio, Levin, Papantonio, & Rafferty — Doing Well by Doing Good 84. Glen Lerner, Lerner and Rowe – A Steady Hand in a Shifting Industry 101. Pratik Shah, EsquireTek — Discovering the Power of Automation 134. Darryl Isaacs, Isaacs & Isaacs — The Hammer: Insights from a Marketing Legend 104. Taly Goody, Goody Law Group — Finding PI Clients on TikTok 63. Joe Fried, Fried Goldberg LLC — How To Become An Expert And Revolutionize Your PI Niche 96. Brian Dean, Backlinko — Becoming a Linkable Source 83. Seth Godin — Differentiation: How to Make Your Law Firm a Purple Cow 73. Neil Patel, Neil Patel — Digital A New Approach to Content and Emerging Marketing Channels