Shows
Epic Spotlight PodcastAudrey Ehrhardt: Smarter Firms, Authentic LeadershipAudrey Ehrhardt is a licensed attorney, certified behavioral consultant, and powerhouse CEO of Practice 42, where she’s built a national reputation for helping law firms grow smarter and stronger. From Elder Law and Estate Planning to legal marketing and team dynamics, Audrey brings deep insight into the challenges—and opportunities—shaping the future of law. Beyond her consulting work, she’s a passionate advocate for leadership development, lifelong learning, and community service. Audrey is also known for mentoring professionals across industries and empowering women entrepreneurs to build sustainable, purpose-driven businesses.In this episode, Dante and Audr...
2025-11-2738 min
What I Wish I Learned in Law School30 - Mastering Time Management: The Key to Success for Attorneys with The Law Firm of Myrna Serrano Setty's Myrna Serrano SettyYour host, Audrey Ehrhardt, talks with the Attorney and Counselor at Law of The Law Firm of Myrna Serrano Setty, Myrna Serrano Setty. Myrna's decision to start her own law firm in 2016 was driven by a desire for control over her practice and time. As a young mom, she needed flexibility to balance her professional and personal life. This decision wasn't easy, but it allowed her to focus on estate planning and probate, areas she was passionate about. To learn more about Myrna's work, click HERE and HERE.Think you'd be a great guest on...
2024-06-1818 minWhat I Wish I Learned in Law School29 - Carving Your Own Path: Unconventional Wisdom for Lawyers with VanderVeen Elder and Special Needs Law's Jennifer VanderVeenYour host, Audrey Ehrhardt, talks with the Chief Everything Officer of VanderVeen Elder and Special Needs Law, Jennifer VanderVeen. Jennifer shared her journey of finding her niche in elder and special needs law. She emphasized the importance of self-discovery and understanding one's unique strengths and ways of thinking. Reflect on your skills and interests. What areas of law resonate with you? What are you passionate about? Don’t be afraid to try different areas of law. Internships, clerkships, and volunteer opportunities can provide valuable insights. Engage with mentors and peers to gain perspective on your strengths and areas for im...
2024-06-1129 minWhat I Wish I Learned in Law School28 - Breaking Boundaries: Redefining the Legal Profession in Elder Law with The Law Office of Angela Odensky's Angela OdenskyYour host, Audrey Ehrhardt, talks with the Founder, Estate Planning, and Elder Law Attorney of The Law Office of Angela Odensky, Angela Odensky. Elder law is a unique field that transcends traditional legal boundaries, focusing on serving a population rather than a specific area of law. Angela's firm, based in Bellaire, Texas, and also serving Washington, specializes in elder law, estate planning, probate, and special needs. The firm's mission is to assist individuals in navigating the complexities of aging and the legal issues that accompany it.Angela emphasized the importance of the intake process, where they gather...
2024-06-0429 minWhat I Wish I Learned in Law School27 - Breaking Barriers: Redefining Mental Health in the Legal Field with Life Point Law's Aaron PakerYour host, Audrey Ehrhardt, talks with the Attorney and Counselor at Law of Life Point Law, Aaron Paker. Aaron's path to law was anything but traditional. Initially aspiring to be a genetic engineer, a poignant encounter with a six-year-old boy set him on a new trajectory. After years as an early childhood teacher, Aaron transitioned into law, drawn by the prospect of less bureaucracy. Despite the initial challenges of breaking into the field, he found his calling at an elder law firm led by Rajiv Nagar, who's on a mission to change how we approach retirement.To...
2024-05-2823 minWhat I Wish I Learned in Law School26 - Exploring the Benefits of Truestate for Trust and Estates Lawyers with Leah Del PercioJosh Elledge of UpMyInfluence, talks with the Founder and CEO of Trustate, Leah Del Percio. Leah Del Paso's journey in co-founding Truestate is a testament to the power of innovation in legal services. Truestate emerged as a response to the complex needs of trust and estate lawyers, offering tools designed to streamline their work and enhance their practice. Leah emphasized the platform's ability to simplify intricate processes, making it easier for lawyers to manage their caseloads and maintain accuracy in their work.The conversation naturally progressed to the broader technology topic in the legal field. Leah pointed...
2024-04-3015 minWhat I Wish I Learned in Law School25 - Exploring Estate Planning and Elder Law with Insights into Small Estates, Farmland, and Taxes with Ford & Lustfield Law Office's Cassandra LustfieldJosh Elledge of UpMyInfluence, talks with the Sole Owner, Attorney, and Counselor of Ford & Lustfield Law Office, Cassandra Lustfield. Cassandra Lustfield is not just any lawyer; she has dedicated her career to helping clients navigate the often-overwhelming world of estate planning and elder law. At Ford & Lustfield Law Office, she offers a spectrum of services that cater to various needs, from straightforward estate plans to more complex trust plans and Medicaid asset protection trusts. She also assists with the formation of LLCs for asset protection, ensuring her clients' legacies are secure.Based in Windom, Minnesota, Cassandra's practice...
2024-04-2311 minWhat I Wish I Learned in Law School24 - Estate Planning: Not Just About Taxes, But Preserving Wealth and Family Well-Being with NSS Legal's Oliver SloamJosh Elledge of UpMyInfluence introduces the Director of NSS Legal, Oliver Sloam. Oliver is at the helm of NSS Legal and partners in an actuarial firm that oversees UK pension schemes. His expertise is rooted in a family tradition of managing trusts, which has undoubtedly shaped his career trajectory. Oliver painted a vivid picture of his daily responsibilities, from drafting wills and trusts to tackling capacity issues, all aimed at ensuring his clients' legacies are preserved and protected.Quality service is the cornerstone of any successful law practice, and Oliver's approach is no exception. Inheriting a client...
2024-04-1607 minWhat I Wish I Learned in Law School23 - From Trials to Trusts: Where Estate Planning Meets Personalized Client Care with Little Law Office's Carla D. LittleJosh Elledge of UpMyInfluence introduces the Owner and Senior Attorney of Little Law Office, Carla D. Little. Carla's clientele largely consists of faith-based individuals seeking guidance in preparing end-of-life documents. She shared the poignant reason behind her transition from criminal law to estate planning—a death in her own family. This experience illuminated the profound need for compassionate estate planners who can navigate people through life's inevitable transitions.Carla acknowledged that while both areas of criminal law and the nuanced field of estate planning law present their challenges, her current role allows her to focus more on cr...
2024-04-0910 minWhat I Wish I Learned in Law School22 - Comprehensive Insights Into West Rock Appraisal's Services and Growth with Westrock Appraisal's Abe RomerJosh Elledge of UpMyInfluence introduces the CEO of Westrock Appraisal, Abe Romer. Westrock Appraisal isn't just a company; it's a legacy established in 1987 by Abe Romer's father. As the current President, Abe oversees every department, ensuring that the company's reach extends across 40 states in the US. Their clientele is diverse, ranging from CMBS lenders and conventional banks to estate planning attorneys and the IRS. Abe's leadership has been instrumental in the company's expansion, maintaining a robust staff of about 85 full-time employees nationwide.One of the standout services provided by Westrock Appraisal is their work with estate planning...
2024-04-0210 minWhat I Wish I Learned in Law School21 - Unleashing the Power of Collaborative Planning with Playfair Planning Services' Kim BourneJosh Elledge of UpMyInfluence introduces the Managing Director of Playfair Planning Services, Kim Bourne. Kim and her team at Playfair Planning Services are dedicated to serving some of the finest families in America. These clients often have complex lives, bustling schedules, and a need for comprehensive financial oversight. With assets typically ranging between 3 and 5 million dollars, these individuals are not only focused on their financial growth but also on leaving a lasting impact through philanthropy and legacy-building.One of the standout points of the discussion was the unique relationship Playfair Planning Services fosters with law firms. Kim...
2024-03-2609 minWhat I Wish I Learned in Law School20 - The Most Effective Legal Strategies for Small Businesses with J. Akin Law's Jennifer AkinYour host, Audrey Ehrhardt, talks with the Owner and Managing Attorney of J. Akin Law, Jennifer Akin. Jennifer's journey into law is as fascinating as it is inspiring. With a career spanning several years, she has established herself as a formidable presence in the legal community. Her areas of expertise are vast, but she has a particular passion for helping clients navigate the often-daunting legal system. Jennifer's approach to law is both compassionate and strategic, ensuring that her clients are well-represented and their interests protected.At J Aiken Law, Jennifer and her team are committed to providing...
2024-01-3009 minWhat I Wish I Learned in Law School19 - Breaking Barriers: Redefining Elder Care Law with Parent Your Parents' H Frances ReavesYour host, Audrey Ehrhardt, talks with the President and Principal of Parent Your Parents, H Frances Reaves. Francis' move from practicing political law in Texas to concentrating on elder law was not merely a professional transition but a mission driven by empathy and understanding. She conveyed a deep sense of gratitude for being able to significantly impact the lives of the elderly and their families. Her practice is distinguished by its focus on not just legal representation but also on guiding families through the complexities of elder care with compassion and expertise.To learn more about H...
2024-01-3008 minWhat I Wish I Learned in Law School18 - Exploring the Gaps in Traditional Legal Education and the Importance of Practical Training with Smokeball's Emma Raimi-ZlaticYour host, Audrey Ehrhardt, talks with the Director of Strategic Partnerships and Events of Smokeball, Emma Raimi-Zlatic. One of the first topics was Emma's role at Smokeball, a company that's at the forefront of legal case management software. Contrary to what some might think, Smokeball has nothing to do with cannabis. Instead, it's a powerhouse of legal technology, offering robust document automation tools and comprehensive features that streamline managing legal matters, billing, and timekeeping.Emma's position as the Director of Partnerships places her at the heart of Smokeball's mission to enhance the efficiency and productivity of law f...
2024-01-3009 minWhat I Wish I Learned in Law School17 - The Power of Medical Insight in Legal Advocacy with Grossman Law Firm's Deborah Grossman-MitchellYour host, Audrey Ehrhardt, talks with the Social Security and VA Disability Lawyer of Grossman Law Firm, Deborah Grossman-Mitchell. Deborah's transition from healthcare to law is a story of passion and dedication. Her medical background gives her an unparalleled advantage in understanding her clients' medical impairments. This integration of medical knowledge into her law practice is not just a unique selling point; it's a crucial element that allows her to advocate effectively for her clients. It's fascinating to see how her expertise in two distinct fields can come together to provide a comprehensive service.One of the...
2024-01-2506 minWhat I Wish I Learned in Law School16 - Breaking the Mold: A Holistic Approach to Elder Law with Polur Elder Law's Shari PolurYour host, Audrey Ehrhardt, talks with the Partner of Polur Elder Law, Shari Polur. At the heart of Shari's practice is a holistic approach to elder law. She believes that providing clients with "nice hard gritty documents and nice folders" is simply not enough. To truly serve her clients, she delves deep into their lives, understanding their family relationships, medical issues, living situations, and financial capabilities. This comprehensive understanding begins with a 19-page questionnaire, ensuring that by the time she meets with her clients, she has a clear picture of their legal questions and overall life circumstances....
2024-01-2510 minWhat I Wish I Learned in Law School15 - Navigating the World of Elder Law and Estate Planning with Casiano Law Frim's Vincent CasianoYour host, Audrey Ehrhardt, talks with the Estate Planning, Elder Law, and Probate Attorney Aggressive Litigator Elder Abuse of Casiano Law Firm, Vincent Casiano. Vincent's path to law is as unique as it is inspiring. With a background that includes graduating from New York Maritime College and navigating oil tankers, Vincent made a dramatic career shift at the age of 40, diving into the legal field. His diverse experiences have shaped a perspective that values continuous learning and adaptability—qualities that are essential in the ever-evolving landscape of elder law and estate planning.Vincent emphasized the distinction between el...
2024-01-2310 minWhat I Wish I Learned in Law School14 - Navigating the Complexities of Elder Law: Effective Strategies for Elder Law Attorneys with Eastbridge Law Group's Nancy ThomeYour host, Audrey Ehrhardt, talks with the Attorney and Partner of Eastbridge Law Group, Nancy Thome. Nancy's journey into the niche of elder law was born out of a desire for new challenges. With a solid background in estate planning and probate, she found herself yearning for more after years of practice. It was the realization of a growing need in the elder law sector, coupled with a personal passion for the field, that steered her in this direction. Nancy's story is a testament to the importance of staying engaged and passionate in one's career, and how the pursuit...
2024-01-2309 minWhat I Wish I Learned in Law School13 - Breaking Barriers: From Business Law to Elder Care Advocacy with The Koewler Law Firm's James KoewlerYour host, Audrey Ehrhardt, talks with the Elder Law and Special Needs Attorney of The Koewler Law Firm, James Koewler. Jim's firm stands out as a beacon of support for those facing the challenges of long-term care, particularly individuals with chronic illnesses. Their mission is to prevent or delay the need for long-term care, a service that is becoming increasingly crucial as our population ages. They also provide invaluable assistance to people with special needs, ensuring they receive the necessary nursing care and support services. This support extends to the spouses who often carry the weight of caregiving responsibilities.
2024-01-2311 minWhat I Wish I Learned in Law School12 - Redefining the Client Experience in Elder Law with Stratton & Reynolds' T C ReynoldsYour host, Audrey Ehrhardt, talks with Managing Partner of Stratton & Reynolds, T C Reynolds. TC's journey into elder law was somewhat serendipitous. Initially, their interest in law was piqued by estate planning during their law school years, but elder law wasn't on their radar until later. It was Reynolds' partner, who had extensive experience in elder law, that illuminated the importance and satisfaction derived from this field. They introduced Reynolds to the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NALA) conference, which further solidified their interest and commitment to elder law.Elder law is distinct from other legal...
2024-01-1810 minWhat I Wish I Learned in Law School11 - The Most Essential Tips for Law School Students Entering the Real World with Wendy Guthro Attorney & Counsellor at Law's Wendy GuthroYour host, Audrey Ehrhardt, talks with Wendy Guthro Attorney & Counsellor at Law, Wendy Guthro. Wendy's expertise in estate planning and elder law is driven by a deep-seated passion for assisting the elderly and ensuring that their legal affairs are in order. Estate planning, as Wendy explained, is not just about drafting wills; it's a comprehensive approach to managing one's assets and ensuring that one's wishes are honored after one pass away. Elder law, on the other hand, focuses on the specific needs of older adults, addressing issues such as guardianship, long-term care planning, and the protection of assets against...
2024-01-1708 minWhat I Wish I Learned in Law School10 - Breaking Barriers: Diversity and Education in Elder Law with Porzio, Bromberg & Newman's Crystal West EdwardsYour host, Audrey Ehrhardt, talks with the Principal of Porzio, Bromberg & Newman, Crystal West Edwards. Elder law encompasses a variety of legal matters that affect the elderly, a demographic that Crystal West Edwards serves with both proficiency and compassion. She shared her perspective on the multifaceted nature of elder law, where legal expertise meets the personal narratives and emotional realities of aging individuals. Crystal's practice is rooted in a deep-seated empathy, recognizing that elder law is as much about people and their life stories as it is about statutes and legal frameworks.Crystal revealed her thoughtful approach...
2024-01-1617 minWhat I Wish I Learned in Law School9 - In-Depth Insights into Elder Law, Disabilities, and Long-Term Care Planning with Porzio, Bromberg & Newman's Ryann SiclariYour host, Audrey Ehrhardt, talks with the Counsel of Porzio, Bromberg & Newman, Ryann Siclari. Ryan's journey into elder law was not a straight path but rather a natural progression that evolved from his initial work with social security disability. His career trajectory took him through the realms of estate planning and eventually led him to focus on Medicaid and government benefits planning. As a certified elder law attorney, Ryan has become adept at counseling families on the complex issues that arise with disability and aging.For those just starting or considering a career in law, Ryan's advice...
2024-01-1612 minWhat I Wish I Learned in Law School8 - The Ultimate Guide to Success in Elder Law and Special Needs Planning with The Chubb Law Firm's Heather R ChubbOn this episode of What I Wish I Learned in Law School, Josh Elledge of UpMyInfluence speaks with the Owner and Life Transitions Lawyer of The Chubb Law Firm, Heather R Chubb. Chubb Law Firm, nestled in the heart of Folsom, California, is not your typical legal practice. During the conversation, Heather shared the firm's dedication to solving what she calls "people puzzles." This philosophy is at the core of their services, which include elder law, estates and trusts, and special needs trusts. Heather's passion for making a tangible difference in her clients' lives was evident as she spoke...
2024-01-1511 minWhat I Wish I Learned in Law School7 - The Most Effective Strategies for Serving the Senior Population in Elder Law with OC Elder Law's Marty BurbankOn this episode of What I Wish I Learned in Law School, Josh Elledge of UpMyInfluence speaks with the Owner, Veteran's Advocate, and Elder Law Attorney of OC Elder Law, Marty Burbank. Marty's journey into the world of elder law is both personal and professional. With his main office nestled in Fullerton, Orange County, California, Marty's firm may be relatively small, but its reach is extensive, serving clients across California and the state of Washington virtually. Oak Elder Law specializes in traditional estate planning, high net worth estate planning, elder law, veterans benefits, medical planning, and asset protection.
2024-01-1212 minWhat I Wish I Learned in Law School6 - Breaking the Mold: Personalized Approaches to Estate Planning and Elder Law with Ortego & Urech's Caroline OrtegoOn this episode of What I Wish I Learned in Law School, Josh Elledge of UpMyInfluence speaks with the Partner of Ortego & Urech, Caroline Ortego. At Ortega & Urech, the firm where Caroline practices, they pride themselves on offering more than just legal advice. They specialize in estate planning, Medicaid planning, probate, and even dabble in real estate work. What truly sets them apart, however, is their commitment to providing hands-on, individualized attention to each client. Carolyn emphasized the importance of understanding clients' unique situations, which often allows her to identify additional ways to assist them—options they might not ha...
2024-01-1113 minWhat I Wish I Learned in Law School5 - Championing Elder Law and Estate Planning with a Personal Touch with Geisler Patterson Law's Martha PattersonOn this episode of What I Wish I Learned in Law School, Josh Elledge of UpMyInfluence speaks with the Founder of Geisler Patterson Law, Martha Patterson. Martha began by shedding light on the origins of her firm's name—a blend of her maiden and married names, which not only personalizes her practice but also conveys a sense of establishment and breadth. As a certified elder law attorney, she underscored the stringent certification process and the distinction it brings, especially given the limited number of certified elder law attorneys in California.One of the more poignant moments in th...
2024-01-1117 minWhat I Wish I Learned in Law School4 - Revolutionizing Legal Services: A Specialized Approach to Elder Law and Estate Planning with Hooper Law Office's Sarah KonsOn this episode of What I Wish I Learned in Law School, Josh Elledge of UpMyInfluence speaks with the Attorney and Owner of Hooper Law Office, Sarah Kons. Sarah Kons and her colleagues at Hooper Law Office have carved out a niche in the legal world, dedicating their practice to elder law and estate planning. With three locations in Appleton, Oshkosh, and Green Bay, they serve the entirety of northeast Wisconsin. The firm's commitment to specialization is a reflection of a broader trend in the legal field, where attorneys are increasingly focusing on specific areas to provide more targeted...
2024-01-1115 minWhat I Wish I Learned in Law School3 - The Most Effective Strategies for Building Authentic Relationships in Elder Law with Law Office of Adriane S. Grace's Adriane S. GraceOn this episode of What I Wish I Learned in Law School, Josh Elledge of UpMyInfluence speaks with the Managing Attorney of the Law Office of Adriane S. Grace, Adriane S. Grace. Adrian's journey into the legal realm is as inspiring as it is informative. With a rich background working for the federal government, particularly in disability and elder law issues, she found her calling. It was this experience that propelled her to establish her own firm, dedicated to helping caregivers and supporters create meaningful legacies with confidence and grace.At the core of Adrian's practice is...
2024-01-1011 minWhat I Wish I Learned in Law School2 - Breaking Barriers: Niche Practices and Specialization in Law with MLO Law's Nalini MahadevanOn this episode of What I Wish I Learned in Law School, Josh Elledge of UpMyInfluence speaks with the Principal Attorney of MLO Law, Nalini Mahadevan. Nalini introduced MLO Law Firm, a practice that has carved out a niche in estate planning and immigration law. With a strong online presence at MLO Law, the firm stands out for its specialized services, including special needs trusts, catering to a diverse clientele.Nalini's role as the Principal Attorney is multifaceted, involving the oversight of the firm's practice areas. She works closely with other attorneys who focus on immigration and...
2024-01-1014 minWhat I Wish I Learned in Law School1 - Insights into Practicing Law, Client Acquisition, and Operational Management with Letsch Law Firm's Cynthia LetschIn the inaugural episode of What I Wish I Learned in Law School, Josh Elledge of UpMyInfluence speaks with the Attorney of Letsch Law Firm, Cynthia Letsch. One of the most striking points Cynthia made was about the disconnect between legal education and the actual practice of law. She expressed a wish that law schools would place greater emphasis on the rules of civil procedure. It's one thing to study the theory behind these rules, but understanding their application is crucial for any lawyer stepping into a courtroom. This gap in practical knowledge is something many new lawyers face...
2024-01-1014 min
Smart Planning 101 with Nicole Wipp019 The Pre-Planning Options That Your Aging Parents Needed Yesterday (Part 5)Part Five of the 5 Things Adult Children of Aging Parents Need to Know Now -- The Pre-Planning Options That Your Aging Parent Needed Yesterday
–This topic somewhat revisits the concept that “basic estate planning isn’t enough” but also addresses the specific types of advanced planning that can make a difference in protecting assets and the ones you love.
The real point of pre-planning is to MAXIMIZE options and gain maximum control of yourself, your family, and your life. When people wait until a crisis, the result is that there are fewer options; therefore, less control...
2014-06-1724 min
Smart Planning 101 with Nicole Wipp018 The Legal Responsibilities An Adult Child May Be Asked To Take On For An Aging Parent (Part 4)Part Four of The 5 Things Adult Children of Aging Parents Need to Know Now (Episode 18):
In this episode, Audrey Ehrhardt of ElderCounsel and I talk about the different types of scenarios that make legal decision making necessary for an adult child; how having proper documents affects this; why you may, as an adult child, need advice not only for your parent’s sake but also for your own!
Part 1: (Episode 15): The Cost of Long Term Care is Rising (And Why It Matters to You)
Audrey gives some facts and figures about how m...
2014-06-1315 min
Smart Planning 101 with Nicole Wipp017 Options for Long Term Care - Taking Care Of Elderly Parents (Part 3)What is long-term care? How do we plan for our parents’ needs as they age – what are our options? In this episode, Audrey Ehrhardt from ElderCounsel and I discuss the many different types of long-term care and how to access them.
The point being, it is MUCH better to know in advance – be prepared – and not try to figure it out when your loved one has a healthcare crisis!
Part 1: (Episode 15): The Cost of Long Term Care is Rising (And Why It Matters to You)
Audrey gives some facts and figures about how many peo...
2014-06-1017 min
Smart Planning 101 with Nicole Wipp016: Why Basic Estate Planning Isn't Enough (Part 2 - Adult Children, Aging Parents)In this episode, Audrey Ehrhardt from ElderCounsel and I discuss the fact that people THINK they’ve “gotten it all taken care of” – but we explore the reasons why this is a dangerous assumption and some of the things you should do about it.
A Will Isn’t Enough (And Neither is A Revocable Living Trust)
Your Financial Power of Attorney Needs Review
This topic is important because so many people (both children AND parents) have mistaken beliefs that things are “all taken care of” – and find out that they are NOT when there is much less that can be done...
2014-06-0920 min
Smart Planning 101 with Nicole Wipp015 The 5 Things Adult Children Of Aging Parents Need To Know NOW (Part 1)In this five-part series, I (Nicole) interview Audrey Ehrhardt, the Office Management Director of the national elder law organization ElderCounsel, and we discuss the FIVE THINGS adult children of aging parents need to know…now.
Planning for the future is essential, especially today with longevity increasing, modern medicine playing a significant role in our living with disability, and longer times of living in retirement.
Understanding how these issues play into our parent’s lives will enable us to make better decisions later, with less stress.
**Reminder** The contents of this podcast do not const...
2014-06-0822 min