Shows
Spill The InkBest Lawyers CEO: When AI Fails, Credible Legal Rankings WinAs AI search engines grapple with hallucinations and unreliable information, people (and AI systems themselves) are doubling down on trusted "sources of truth" like peer-reviewed rankings to deliver accurate recommendations. In this episode of "Spill the Ink," Phil Greer, CEO of Best Lawyers, explains how law firms can use legal directories like Best Lawyers to position themselves as the trusted service providers. Phil also shares how Best Lawyers proactively rebuilt their data infrastructure to feed AI systems, introduced their proprietary tool Smithy AI to help lawyers create unique, AI-optimized content, and why he believes participating in established peer-review rankings...
2026-01-2820 min
Spill The InkMidsize Law Firms: Two Key Questions to Stop Random Acts of MarketingInside midsize law firms, things can get loud. They're often in a stage where they're in constant motion, frequently hosting events, updating websites and sponsoring conferences. But when asked about the end results, the answer isn't always clear. Erika Steinberg, founder of CMO2Go, says the problem often starts with how firms think about strategy itself. In this episode of "Spill the Ink," Erika joins Michelle Calcote King to discuss why strategy doesn't need to be a capital 'S' undertaking that costs a fortune and ends with a binder nobody reads. With more than 30 years in legal...
2026-01-0716 min
Spill The InkWin and Keep In-House Clients: A General Counsel's Insights for Law FirmsLanding a new client is just the beginning. For law firms working with in-house counsel, the greater challenge lies in maintaining long-term relationships that evolve beyond transactional exchanges. Candisse Williamson, General Counsel at Hartbeat, Kevin Hart's global media company, brings a unique perspective to this challenge, having worked both in Big Law and built legal departments from the ground up at two entertainment companies. In this episode of "Spill the Ink," Candisse joins Michelle Calcote King to explore how general counsels evaluate outside firms and what drives them to become repeat clients. She explains why smart lawyering...
2025-12-0822 min
Spill The InkAI as an Accelerant: Tools Helping Legal Marketing Teams Compete SmarterAI tools are changing the marketing game for small and midsized law firms, making it easier for them to compete with the bigger players in their markets. In this episode of "Spill the Ink," Michelle Calcote King interviews Jennifer Scotton, the Chief Marketing Officer at Constangy, to discuss how AI is transforming legal marketing. Jennifer's team views AI as an enhancement of human capabilities, not a replacement, and has implemented a firmwide policy emphasizing its ethical use. In this interview, she highlights specific tools her team uses, including custom GPTs for website content and AI headshot tools for remote...
2025-11-1721 min
Spill The InkThe Science Behind Best Lawyers: Insights to Maximize Your Law Firm's RecognitionUnderstanding the methodology behind legal rankings can transform how law firms approach the nomination process. In this "Spill the Ink" episode, Elizabeth Petit, Vice President of Research and Development at Best Lawyers, pulls back the curtain on the peer-review process that has been the rankings program's foundation since 1983. Michelle and Elizabeth also discuss the transition path from the "Ones to Watch" list to "Best Lawyers" recognition, the role of AI in improving rankings visibility without impacting the methodology itself and critical action steps firms should take before the December 12 nomination deadline to ensure their lawyers are positioned...
2025-10-2713 min
Spill The InkBreaking Down Silos: How to Build a Culture of Sharing in Law FirmsAttorneys are trained to be cautious and confidential, and these instincts often extend beyond client matters into a general reluctance to promote their own achievements. This creates a challenge for law firm marketers trying to publicize wins, celebrate successes and build the firm's reputation in the market. In this episode of "Spill the Ink," Brittany Lewis, Head of Marketing at Bell Nunnally, joins Michelle Calcote King to discuss how a 70-attorney firm transformed its internal culture from keeping accomplishments under the radar to actively celebrating and sharing successes. With 15 years of legal marketing experience, Brittany shares the...
2025-10-1318 min
Spill The InkThe Art of Alignment: Branding in Decentralized AEC FirmsWhen AEC firms grant decentralized offices free rein to create their own messaging, the results can be damaging: wasted resources, confused clients, weakened competitive positioning and marketing teams that unknowingly sabotage each other's work. Yet many firms continue operating this way, treating brand fragmentation as an inevitable cost of doing business across multiple markets. In this episode of "Spill the Ink," Michelle Calcote King sits down with Amy Zelenka, Director of Marketing at Affiliated Engineers, Inc. (AEI) to explore what happens when AEC firms allow their decentralized structure to fragment their brand identity across offices, markets and...
2025-09-0919 min
Spill The InkHow to Get Attorneys to Buy In on Legal Marketing PlansGood marketing ideas alone won't get attorneys to follow through. In this "Spill the Ink" episode, Michelle Calcote King talks to Sheenika Gandhi, Chief Marketing Officer at Greenberg Glusker, who reveals her proven strategies for transforming attorney resistance into marketing commitment. Sheenika started her career wanting to be a lawyer, went to law school and took the bar exam before discovering legal marketing. Her law school credentials encourage attorneys to listen to her openly, as she gets their world and speaks their language. Bringing her unique perspective to the table, Sheenika shares her systematic approach to overcoming...
2025-08-2121 min
Spill The InkEnding the Standoff: AEC Marketers vs. Technical ExpertsIn this episode of "Spill the Ink," Michelle Calcote King sits down with Gabe Lett, Chief Marketing Officer at Prairie Engineers, to explore what happens when technical experts dictate marketing decisions and marketing teams get buried in proposal work. According to Gabe, the results are ineffective communication, missed opportunities for business development and frustrated professionals on both sides. Gabe brings a unique perspective to AEC marketing, having grown up in the industry with a father who was a civil engineer and business owner. This background gives him deep insight into both the technical and business sides of...
2025-08-0730 min
Spill The InkThe MIT Program: How Strong Habits Drove 82% New Business Growth at One Law FirmMany law firms invest in excellent business development coaching, see fantastic initial results, then watch performance gradually decline. Anna Hedgepeth, Chief Strategy Officer at Cranfill Sumner, observed this cycle happening firsthand at her firm and set out to develop a psychology-based system that would produce lasting results. Anna joins Michelle Calcote King on this "Spill the Ink" episode to discuss the "Most Important Things" (MIT) program, which has increased attorney matter originations by 82% on average at Cranfill Sumner. The disciplined 15-minute biweekly meeting requires attorneys to commit to three specific business development actions and leverages peer accountability...
2025-07-1722 min
Spill The InkThe Legal Marketer's Blind Spot: Start Treating Lawyers as ClientsYou can't sell a product effectively without understanding it. In law firms, that product is the attorneys. To sell legal services, legal marketers need to invest in not just learning the firm's clients and industries, but also the nuances of the attorneys they support and the economics that drive their daily decisions. In this episode of "Spill the Ink," Powers Tanis, Senior Director of Strategic Initiatives at McAngus Goudelock & Courie and 2025 Legal Marketing Association Southeast Region President, joins us to discuss how grasping attorney pain points, billing pressures and case lifecycles enables marketers to do their jobs...
2025-07-0725 min
Spill The InkChallenging AEC's Myth That "Anyone Can Do Marketing"The misconception that "anyone can do marketing" creates barriers that relegate AEC marketers to tactical roles rather than strategic business partners. In this "Spill the Ink" episode, Michelle Galindez, Director of Marketing and Communications at Syska Hennessy Group, discusses practical strategies for marketing leaders to find their voice, challenge assumptions and demonstrate value in terms that resonate with technical executives. Michelle has spent nearly a decade reinforcing Syska Hennessy's global marketing function into a trusted strategic business driver. She covers actionable tips to help marketers build technical fluency and gain the confidence to reshape conversations with seasoned...
2025-06-1121 min
Spill The InkBeyond Business Cards: Authentic Networking for New Law Firm PartnersIn this episode, Michelle Calcote King sits down with Megan Senese, co-founder and principal at stage, a woman-owned legal marketing and business development consultancy, to discuss how newly minted partners can develop authentic networking approaches that generate business. Through her own journey from "networking-phobic" marketing professional to successful business developer, Megan demonstrates how connecting with people one-on-one transformed her career and led to connecting with 1,000 people in her first year of business. She identifies the two common mistakes lawyers make in business development: either being too transactional or building friendly relationships without ever asking for work. She...
2025-05-2827 min
Spill The InkAEC Strategy Driven by True Connection, Not Transactional RelationshipsTechnical expertise is merely table stakes in the AEC industry. How firms approach their relationship-building is the true differentiator, with the potential to completely change the game for decision-makers. Brad Thurman, Chief Marketing Officer at Wallace Design Collective, shares his experience to help firms nurture authentic relationships — and knock cold outreach down from the top of their priority list. Brad unpacks three relationship-building principles that helped transform his firm into a powerhouse with more than 300 professionals across eight offices: prioritizing responsive communication, celebrating client milestones and aligning authentic connection with the firm's core values. As he puts it...
2025-05-0519 min
Spill The InkGiving Up Carbon-Copy Market Entry Tactics in AEC Firms"We didn't want to be somebody that just came in and it was about the bottom line and the revenue. It was about being a part of the community." In this episode, Michelle Calcote King sits down with Optima Engineering Director of Marketing & Growth Suzanne Epps to discuss why it is a mistake for AEC marketers to blindly transplant their existing strategies when entering new markets. Through Optima's recent launch in Greenville, South Carolina, Suzanne demonstrates how becoming a true community partner — not just a service provider — creates lasting relationships that outperform traditional advertising investments. She...
2025-04-2220 min
Spill The InkAttorney Work-Life Balance: Managing Boundaries and Client RelationsIn this episode of "Spill the Ink," Michelle Calcote King speaks with Amanda Waesch, who chairs marketing and business development at Brennan, Manna & Diamond (BMD), about navigating work-life balance in the demanding legal profession. Amanda shares her experiences developing her firm's inaugural maternity policy, advocating for flexible work arrangements and building authentic relationships with clients that respect boundaries. The conversation explores how law firms can better support women's careers through progressive policies, the importance of setting expectations with clients and practical strategies for maintaining professional excellence while prioritizing personal commitments. Amanda offers valuable insights for attorneys at...
2025-04-1019 min
Spill The InkTurning Data into Decisions: Research-Driven Strategies for AEC FirmsMost AEC firms recognize research's potential and understand they can't rely on assumptions or gut feelings to stay ahead of the curve. Still, many firms struggle to implement effective research programs that inform their strategic decisions. In this episode of "Spill the Ink," Michelle speaks with Julie Witecki, Senior Consultant at FMI Consulting, about how research can shape market strategies and drive business growth in architecture, engineering and construction firms. Julie introduces the "Five C's of Context" framework: a comprehensive approach to research that examines climate, customer, competitor, collaborator, and company dynamics and considerations. She explains how...
2025-03-2623 min
Spill The InkThe Rewards When DEI Drives Innovation in Law FirmsLaw firms are often seen as slow to change, but diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) can be powerful drivers of innovation. In this episode, Michelle Calcote King speaks with Terra Davis, Chief Diversity and Talent Development Officer at Knobbe Martens, about the business benefits of embracing DEI in law firms. She discusses how effective DEI work goes beyond the surface to create more welcoming and innovative workplaces where legal professionals want to build long-term careers. Terra emphasizes that when DEI becomes embedded in firm culture rather than existing as a separate initiative, innovation naturally follows. She shares...
2025-03-1032 min
Spill The InkExploring Mentorship Outside Traditional Channels as AEC MarketersProfessional learning and growth can bloom from unexpected relationships — and these opportunities are abundant in technical industries like architecture, engineering and construction. In this episode of "Spill the Ink," Michelle Calcote King sits down with Reagan Branham, Chief Marketing Officer at HERA laboratory planners, to discuss the benefits of embracing mentorship opportunities outside the marketing department's traditional hierarchy. Reagan tells us about a turning point in her AEC marketing career that led her to view each colleague, regardless of discipline or department, as a potential mentor. She also shares how this mindset shift is helping her build a culture of...
2025-02-2525 min
Spill The InkBreaking Misconceptions: How Legal Marketers Are Innovating and Advancing the FieldIn this episode, John Byrne, the Chief Marketing Officer at Gould & Ratner and the 2025 President of the Legal Marketing Association, disputes the idea that legal marketing is behind other professional services industries. He and Michelle Calcote King discuss how forward-thinking law firms are harnessing the power of content marketing and leveraging data analysis to bolster client retention. John emphasizes the vital role of relationship selling in legal marketing and explores how marketers can earn a seat at the table at their firms. John's insights empower marketers to recognize their influence and champion the value of their profession. Here's...
2025-02-1135 min
Spill The InkMarketing's Role in Winning the War for AEC Talent (feat. Bryce Batts)With a tight labor market casting a dark shadow over our heads, architecture, engineering and construction firm marketers are increasingly stepping in to support talent recruiting, engagement and retention. Bryce Batts, the Co-Founder of AEC staffing firm Career Collective, sits down with us to talk about how marketing and HR departments are teaming up to attract top talent. Bryce gives us a glimpse into the state of the AEC hiring market and the top challenges hiring firms are navigating. She also covers how a strong employer brand impacts recruitment, why social media channels like LinkedIn should be...
2024-11-1129 min
Spill The InkWhat other sectors teach us about legal marketing (feat. Jennifer Gault)It's easy to get lost in the complexities of a legal issue and the nuances of an industry, but effective marketing should always center around one thing: how does it make people feel about your firm? This is one of many insights that Strauss Troy's director of marketing Jennifer Gault has acquired in her more than 12-year career spanning the retail, nonprofit and construction sectors. In this episode, Jennifer discusses how she's strengthening brand awareness for "strategically midsize" law firm Strauss Troy, including by developing a new tagline, launching a video strategy and guiding a website redesign.
2024-09-0432 min
Spill The InkWhy your attorneys should feel like part of the marketing team (feat. Julia Thomas)On paper, Julia Thomas is a one-woman band as Dean Mead's marketing director. But in reality, she works in tandem with more than 100 unofficial marketers. Yep — attorneys and staff have a crucial supporting role to play as advocates for their firm and its brand, and Julia has made it her mission to empower them. In this episode of Spill the Ink, Julia discusses how her approach to legal marketing creates a culture of shared responsibility and reveals what she's learned about helping busy attorneys stay engaged with community-focused initiatives. And with 20 years of experience in global, national, re...
2024-07-2427 min
Spill The InkLessons from marketing a legacy construction firm on its 100th anniversary (feat. Dana Galvin Lancour)Reaching 100 years is a commendable accomplishment for any business and should be celebrated to the fullest extent. As Dana Galvin Lancour leads Barton Malow's centennial marketing campaign, she joins us to discuss the challenges and opportunities in marketing a legacy construction firm with deep community roots. In this episode of Spill the Ink, Michelle interviews Dana, Barton Malow's VP of branding and communications, about the strategic planning behind the firm's 100th anniversary. They discuss how Barton Malow structures its team to facilitate cross-functional collaboration, the firm's forward-thinking approach to thought leadership and the importance of getting internal...
2024-07-0334 min
Spill The InkWhat non-attorney CEOs bring to law firm operations (feat. Jonathan Delk)It's as untraditional as it gets, but having a non-attorney in the driving seat of your law firm can do wonders for streamlining operations, enhancing the client experience and strengthening team culture. But it's not without its challenges — as our guest discovered when he built a law firm from the ground up (with the help of a team of attorneys) in just two weeks. Before Jonathan Delk was CEO of Colorado-based JVAM, he was a ski instructor-turned-digital marketer with a Master of Business Administration. In this episode, he tells Michelle Calcote King how he leveraged those skills an...
2024-06-1727 min
Spill The InkMarketing analytics, photography and a people-centric strategy (feat. Michael Mantese)Michael Mantese brought a fresh perspective to Eskew Dumez Ripple, a nationally recognized architecture firm, when he joined in 2017. Coming from a New York City digital marketing and advertising agency, he brought a data-driven, people-centric approach to the firm's marketing and content creation strategies. As marketing director, he leads the firm with the same values and elevates its brand storytelling through his photographer's eye. In this episode, Michelle chats with Michael about tools and strategies for cutting-edge architecture marketing, content ideation and amplification, and how marketing departments can leverage analytics and technology. Michael also shares how his...
2024-05-2219 min
Spill The InkBenefits of niche marketing for architecture firms feat. Heather BlaziSoon after starting as an intern architect, Heather Blazi realized the job didn't spark joy quite the way she imagined while watching HGTV as a kid. So she adjusted her path. Today, she's the marketing director at Pfluger Architects, a design firm specializing in the education market. Heather joins us to discuss owning your niche, market expansion and building an effective team with diverse skills. She shares why Pfluger encourages architects to use LinkedIn and how a strong brand supports proposal development, boosts employee engagement and amplifies recruitment efforts. Here's a glimpse of what you'll learn
2024-04-2421 min
Spill The InkA servant leadership approach to law firm marketing (feat. Aricia Gallaher)Law firms are relationship-driven businesses — and not only in terms of attorney-client relationships. Aricia Gallaher's recipe for success is to approach marketing with an understanding that nurturing connections is kingpin, both internally and externally. Aricia is the marketing director at Chambliss, Bahner & Stophel, a full-service law firm in Chattanooga. In this episode, Aricia reflects on the lessons learned during a two-decade career and the role her servant leadership approach has played in the firm's growth. Host Michelle Calcote King also talks with her about facilitating thought leadership, marketing technology, LinkedIn for attorneys, and maximizing industry networks like Me...
2024-04-1023 min
Spill The InkWinning AEC business with tailored proposals (feat. Derek Goodroe)Professional services buyers want to see more than simple boilerplate to inform their decision about why they should hire you. Marketing needs to be tailored as much as possible to address their specific needs and concerns. Derek Goodroe, marketing director at Ashley McGraw Architects, talks about why he invests time and resources into carefully tailoring each request for proposal (RFP) — even if it takes hours to get it right. He and host Michelle Calcote King discuss the evolution of the architecture industry and the marketer's role. They also cover the tools Ashley McGraw uses to expand reach an...
2024-03-2622 min
Spill The InkWhy a DEI strategy is a competitive advantage for law firms featuring Lee WattsThe legal industry isn't known for its trailblazing progress on the diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) front — but it is improving. Many law firms are integrating DEI strategy into their core business model, and the benefits of this shift are touching nearly every area, from prospecting and marketing to recruitment and talent development. In this episode, Lee Watts joins us to talk about her new role as Director of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at Bass, Berry & Sims. She discusses the firm's strategy and reflects on how DEI influences a firm's brand, reputation and competitive advantage. Here's a gl...
2024-03-1119 min
Spill The InkArchitecture marketer spotlight: Insights into strengthening a firm's identity and positioningJill Davis leads the marketing department at Cline Design, an interdisciplinary architecture, planning and interior design firm in North Carolina. She recently guided the 35-year-old firm through a successful rebrand and website redesign and is constantly re-examining Cline's marketing strategy to meet evolving client needs. In this episode, Jill and host Michelle Calcote King discuss Cline's marketing strategy through the years, including its 2023 rebrand. They also cover how to encourage architects, designers and other subject-matter experts to contribute to marketing initiatives that showcase the firm's expertise and culture, such as thought leadership and social media. Here's...
2024-02-2628 min
Spill The InkHow law firms are using videos to generate and nurture leads featuring Philip FairleyYou don't need to work in an extremely visual industry to create video content that drives revenue and brings in new business. You don't even need to hire a fancy, high-tech production team. Philip Fairley helps law firms and attorneys craft and execute video marketing strategies that resonate with target audiences and yield ROI. He and host Michelle Calcote King discuss how to get started, including equipment, where to find regular content ideas, how to set up a shooting location, and the best distribution channels. They cover how law firms can use videos to create touch points...
2024-02-1237 min
Spill The InkAdvancing diversity, equity and inclusion opportunities in AEC feat. Tia PerryThe architecture, engineering and construction industry is severely lagging behind in diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI). Black workers represent 13% of the industry's workforce but only hold 7% of its jobs. Meanwhile, white workers comprise 77% of the workforce and hold over 80% of all AEC jobs. AEC Unites, a nonprofit membership organization, was founded in 2023 to advance DEI in the industry. The organization seeks to be a resource for Black talent to identify career paths and leadership opportunities and to create sustainable opportunities for Black-owned businesses to grow and thrive. In this episode, Michelle Calcote King invites AEC...
2024-01-3018 min
Spill The InkHow to run a better law firm business with Gary MitchellRunning a business is hard. Now try being a lawyer on top of it all. Having spent 20 years helping law firm owners and senior partners implement strategies that turn their firms into thriving businesses, Gary Mitchell has a treasure trove of knowledge and advice to share about the subject. He and host Michelle Calcote King discuss the many facets of running an effective law firm business, including best practices for efficient management and streamlining operations, leadership excellence, succession planning, and employee engagement and retention. Here's a glimpse of what you'll learn Who is Gary Mitchell
2024-01-1629 min
Spill The InkBuilding genuine connections as business developers and marketers (feat. Michelle Hamilton)Angels sing when marketing and business development (BD) work in harmony. Together, the departments highlight the business's value at every stage of the buyer's journey. Michelle Hamilton, VP of Business Development at Vessel Architecture, talks about how BD and marketing complement each other and how to make genuine connections that go beyond transactional interactions. She and host Michelle Calcote King discuss industry trends, including artificial intelligence (AI) and LinkedIn videos. Hamilton also opens up about her background as a glass sculptor and her recent ADHD diagnosis. Here's a glimpse of what you'll learn Who Michelle...
2023-12-1323 min
Spill The InkAI for law firms: The good, the bad and the future with Jessica AriesMany businesses have spent the past year navigating the increasing use of artificial intelligence in the workplace. Law firms are especially cautious due to lingering questions about the legal implications of using AI, particularly related to confidentiality and privacy concerns. Meanwhile, many professionals are exploring how AI might enhance their expertise and simplify workloads. Jessica Aries is one of them. Jessica is a seasoned legal marketer and founder of By Aries, a digital marketing agency specializing in the legal sector. She frequently talks about how law firms can use AI tools to enhance their operations...
2023-11-3023 min
Spill The InkHow AEC firms can use employee phone videos to fuel connection and engagement with Jessica WhitlockArchitecture, engineering and construction firms are increasingly integrating video content into their marketing strategies. Thanks to smartphones, AEC firms don't need expensive equipment or large production crews to create high-quality videos. Field professionals can now use their phones to capture on-site perspectives, resulting in authentic and engaging behind-the-scenes content. Jessica Whitlock, a studio leader at RS&H, was one of the trailblazers in her firm's video initiative. She shares her experience launching the initiative in this episode of "Spill the Ink." Michelle Calcote King interviews her about the role of employee-generated videos in supporting RS&H's brand...
2023-11-1518 min
Spill The InkArchitecture marketer spotlight: Building client experience into a firm's brand with Jennifer SebranekJennifer Sebranek helped shape GBBN Architects's marketing into a vibrant, creative and attention-grabbing masterpiece — much like the buildings the firm's architects design. Their success truly cemented as the firm focused on building a client-first brand, which Jennifer refers to as GBBN's "You, not us" approach. It captures GBBN's unwavering commitment to prioritize the client experience and foster lasting connections with the built environment, clients, project partners and each other. Michelle Calcote King invites Jennifer to share insights into GBBN's marketing approach and the trends shaping its future. In this episode of "Spill the Ink," they underscore the si...
2023-10-3022 min
Spill The InkArchitecture marketer spotlight: Knowledge management and marketing in harmony with Katie RobinsonExtracting, capturing and communicating knowledge from project team members are fundamental responsibilities of an architecture firm's marketing department. LS3P, an architecture, interiors and planning firm, has honed these processes over the years to drive its success, elevate its marketing efforts and provide greater value to its clients. In this episode of "Spill the Ink," Michelle Calcote King interviews Katie Robinson, LS3P's chief marketing officer and a principal in the firm. They discuss the firm's marketing evolution, including how Katie helped refine LS3P's knowledge management efforts and the positive effect it had on the firm's...
2023-10-1727 min
Spill The InkArchitecture marketer spotlight: The warp speed evolution of AEC marketing with Jennifer HaferbeckerThe marketing industry is evolving at warp speed, as Jennifer Haferbecker tells Michelle Calcote King in this episode of "Spill the Ink." Role specialization, branding, research and technology are increasingly important players in an architecture firm's strategy. Keeping pace in this constantly changing landscape means being more intentional with both strategy and professional development. As chief marketing officer, Jennifer Haferbecker oversees the marketing and communications department at HGA, a national interdisciplinary design firm. In our new series featuring architecture marketers, Jennifer and Michelle reflect on the trends influencing the industry and how HGA maintains their strategy-focused, people-first...
2023-10-0426 min
Spill The InkInsights on scaling and selling multi-million dollar professional services firms with Greg AlexanderSome say that running a business is an art, not a science. But professional services firm owners should have a documented strategy for growing and scaling their business to one day (fingers-crossed) sell their company for millions of dollars. In 2017, Greg Alexander sold his consulting firm for $162 million. Now he's on a mission to help other business owners achieve similar success. In this episode of "Spill the Ink," Michelle invites Greg to share lessons from his multi-million-dollar success story. They discuss the three stages of a firm's life cycle — growth, scale and exit — as well as w...
2023-09-2026 min
Spill The InkThe value of market research for AEC firms with Sarah KinardWhat do we all do before making a decision? Research. Market research enables architecture, engineering and construction firms to make strategic decisions about their business. Firms can use the information for diverse purposes, including to plan for the future, create buy-in, break into a new market and identify missed opportunities in their current markets. How do you know you're doing "good" research? How should you incorporate your findings into your marketing strategy? Michelle invites Sarah Kinard to weigh in on the conversation in this episode of "Spill the Ink." Sarah is the owner...
2023-08-1724 min
Spill The InkVirtual communication for legal professionals with Marsha RedmonVirtual meetings and remote work are the new norm of the professional landscape — yes, even for law firms. As the industry evolves, so should our communication skills. Michelle invites Marsha Redmon, a legal communications and business development consultant, to share advice on how legal professionals can improve their engagement when presenting and pitching to remote and hybrid audiences. They discuss best practices for communicating in different scenarios, common mistakes lawyers make, how to project confidence and credibility, and more. Here's a glimpse of what you'll learn Who is Marsha Redmon and what is Ma...
2023-08-0326 min
Spill The InkBranding your architecture, engineering and construction firm with Mark WierdaWhat does your brand say about your architecture, engineering or construction firm? Does it accurately reflect who you are today or is it still rooted in your early days of establishment? How a potential client perceives your AEC firm holds significant sway over their decision-making process. If your brand seems outdated or inconsistent, it could be the decisive factor that sends new business into a competitor's arms. Michelle invites Mark Wierda, co-founder and president of Cultivate Brands, to talk through everything AEC firms need to know about building a strong brand that resonates with prospective clients. They...
2023-07-2028 min
Spill The InkShifting mindsets: Scaling your law firm business as a female owner with Davina FrederickWomen face unique challenges in the workplace, particularly in male-dominated industries like law. For female law firm owners, these challenges can inadvertently impact their efforts to efficiently scale their business, leaving highly capable attorneys to grow their firms at a slower pace than their male counterparts. In this episode of "Spill the Ink," host Michelle Calcote King invites Davina Frederick to weigh in on the conversation and share how she's helped lawyers grow their firms. Davina is the owner of Wealthy Woman Lawyer, a strategic growth planning and coaching company that helps women law firm owners turn...
2023-06-2329 min
Spill The InkDitching the billable-hour model with the ADVOS Pro P3 MethodWhat if there was a way for lawyers to ditch the billable-hour model without sacrificing value or profits? ADVOS Pro is teaching law firms to do exactly that with its P3 Method. The P3 Method enables firms to transition to a "deliverables-based" format where the firm's expertise and results — as opposed to six-minute increments — act as the measure of its worth. The model is designed to reward efficiency, streamline processes and prevent attorney burnout. In this episode of "Spill the Ink," Michelle Calcote King invites ADVOS Pro Co-Founder Whitney Harper to share how the experience she...
2023-06-0136 min
Spill The InkReducing stigma and promoting wellness in the legal industry with Cynthia VothTo advance and excel in the extremely competitive legal field, attorneys and legal professionals are pressured to work long hours, handle substantial workloads and exhibit a high degree of professionalism when dealing with complex issues. Although their role is undeniably vital, the industry is facing growing criticism for the negative impact its demanding work environment can have on the wellness and mental health of those working in it. The Legal Marketing Association's Well-being Committee was created to advocate for healthy work environments, reduce mental health stigma and provide resources to increase well-being and support the success of...
2023-05-1825 min
Spill The InkBuilding resilience and wellness in law firms with Renee BransonLegal professionals operate in incredibly demanding and high-pressure work environments that lead many lawyers to struggle with severe stress, burnout and mental health issues such as depression, anxiety and substance abuse. Research into attorney mental health often reveals grim realities. For example, a recent study sponsored by the California Lawyers Association and the D.C. Bar found lawyers contemplate suicide at an "exceedingly high rate," with 8.5% of lawyers surveyed reporting suicidal thoughts, compared to 4.2% of the U.S. population age 18 and over. Conversations about lawyer wellness and resilience are becoming more commonplace and a growing number of...
2023-05-0528 min
Spill The InkNiching and podcasting: Tools for attracting new legal clientsWhen faced with a complex legal challenge, businesses search for law firms that can provide specialized solutions to their problems. By branding your law firm as a "jack of all trades," you risk having potential clients lump your sophisticated law practice with other competitors. What does that mean? You've just lost new business because you didn't stand out. Casting a wide net can help expand your target audience, but it can also prevent you from being memorable in an extremely competitive market. Niching is a way to demonstrate to prospective clients that your team is uniquely qualified...
2023-05-0537 min
Spill The InkUsing legal tech to improve marketing and operations with Daniel SteinbergThe legal industry isn't known for being the most progressive when it comes to adopting new technology. Yet, (slowly but surely) lawyers are realizing that wielding the right legal tech can lead to improved productivity and client satisfaction. In this episode of "Spill the Ink," Michelle Calcote King interviews Daniel Steinberg, the co-founder and CEO of Lawbrokr, about how to best leverage technology in the legal space. They cover a wide range of topics, including the state of the legal tech industry, ChatGPT and emerging technologies. They also discuss how Lawbrokr's platform enhances marketing departments and why...
2023-04-0728 min
Spill The InkMastering proposal writing with the A3 formatTraditionally, the request for proposal (RFP) process has required countless hours of work to create comprehensive proposals that highlight an architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) firm's full range of capabilities. Unfortunately, most RFP responses contain hundreds of pages of boilerplate information that are ineffective at clearly communicating a firm's value proposition and expertise. What if that information could be condensed into a one-page response that not only communicates expertise but also packs a punch? Ann Leiner's company, Stacey & Associates, helps clients achieve just that using the A3 format. Rooted in lean principles, the A3 format challenges proposal...
2023-03-0930 min
Everything Except the Law - Presented by Answering LegalImproving Your Firm’s Reputation Through PR With Michelle Calcote KingEpisode 40 of the "Everything Except The Law" podcast has arrived! This time we welcome back Michelle Calcote King, the Principal & President of Reputation Ink.
In this episode, Michelle and podcast host Nick Werker discuss the biggest benefits law firms will see from engaging in PR activities, dos and don'ts for pitching story ideas to the media, whether most law firms are prepared to handle a PR crisis and much more!
About our guest:
With two decades of marketing and PR experience that spans from Australia to England and back to the States, Michelle Cal...
2023-03-0643 min
Everything Except the Law - Presented by Answering LegalImproving Your Firm’s Reputation Through PR With Michelle Calcote KingSend us a textEpisode 40 of the "Everything Except The Law" podcast has arrived! This time we welcome back Michelle Calcote King, the Principal & President of Reputation Ink. In this episode, Michelle and podcast host Nick Werker discuss the biggest benefits law firms will see from engaging in PR activities, dos and don'ts for pitching story ideas to the media, whether most law firms are prepared to handle a PR crisis and much more! About our guest: With two decades of marketing and PR experience that spans from Australia to England and...
2023-03-0643 min
Spill The InkDo partnership and video marketing strategies work for law firms?With so many law firms vying for attention in today's hyper-competitive market, it can be hard to stand out among the crowd. Answering Legal, a company providing 24/7 answering services for law firms, has found success using partnership and video marketing strategies to amplify its reach and connect with its audiences. In this episode of Spill the Ink, Michelle Calcote King sits down with Nick Werker, Answering Legal's marketing director. They talk about how Answering Legal joins forces with other businesses in the legal industry to create marketing campaigns that cater to the diverse needs of their shared...
2023-02-2334 min
Spill The InkBuilding better AEC teams by leading with emotional intelligenceWhat's the key to building high-performing teams where people feel valued and motivated from start to finish? Brent Darnell says the answer lies in leveling up our emotional intelligence. Emotional intelligence is the ability to recognize, understand and manage one's own emotions, as well as the emotions of others. It encompasses self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy and social skills. In this episode of Spill the Ink, Michelle Calcote King sits down with Brent Darnell to discuss how emotional intelligence impacts culture and success in architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) firms. With over 20 years of experience coaching...
2023-02-0930 min
Spill The InkAEC business development trends and strategies for a constantly evolving marketCompetition in the architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) field has grown increasingly fierce over the years. Economic changes, market movement, technological advancements and — of course — the pandemic have greatly impacted the evolving business landscape. According to Lori Sullivan, building stronger relationships with people will always be at the heart of winning business and sales strategies. AEC business developers must focus on developing customer-centric strategies that resonate and strengthen connections with prospective clients to succeed and stay ahead of the competition. In this episode of Spill the Ink, Michelle Calcote King invites Lori Sullivan to share her...
2023-01-2627 min
Spill The InkLegal tech trends: How technology is transforming the legal industryThe global legal technology market has rapidly grown into a multibillion-dollar industry — and it's still expanding. Even in its infancy, legal tech is revolutionizing how law firms manage client relationships and internal processes, yielding better overall services for more affordable prices. What trends are shaping the future of the legal industry? What do law firms need to know to keep up with the times? This episode of Spill the Ink features Jared Correia, the founder and CEO of Red Cave Law Firm Consulting and co-founder of Gideon Software, Inc. Jared and Michelle Calcote King discuss how emerging le...
2023-01-1233 min
Spill The InkHappy holidays! A marketer's reflection on the legal industryThe state (and future) of the legal industry is drastically different from what it was 10 years ago. The rise of legal tech and social media platforms like LinkedIn are changing the way law firms operate and market their services to clients. Meanwhile, the role of firm culture in recruitment and retainment is shifting priorities for in-house marketers and business developers. What can legal marketers expect from 2023? In this episode of Spill the Ink, Michelle Calcote King and Kevin Aschenbrenner, the Senior Director of Public Relations at Reputation Ink, discuss the evolution of the legal industry and the...
2022-12-1530 min
Spill The InkBye 2022! A marketer's reflection on the AEC industryWe blinked, and suddenly December was upon us. What even happened in 2022? To start, the massive federal infrastructure spending bill passed in 2021 meant more projects on the horizon for architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) firms. Recruitment and retainment became significant priorities for AEC marketing teams, especially amid the Great Resignation. In this episode of Spill the Ink, Michelle Calcote King hands the microphone to a special guest. Steven Gallo serves as the Director of Content and PR at Reputation Ink where he's in charge of creating brand awareness strategies for the agency's AEC clients. They...
2022-12-0125 min
Spill The InkBuilding AEC websites that attract new business and support operationsAn architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) firm's website is its most valuable marketing asset — but its utility can be stretched even further with the right approach. Your website can be transformed into a state-of-the-art tool that both empowers B2B buyers to make decisions based on your portfolio and creates automated efficiencies for your business. Scott Jacques is the founder of NK Interactive, a digital agency that designs websites and custom digital tools that solve complex sales and marketing problems for clients in the commercial construction sector. His team transforms client websites using a "single source of tr...
2022-11-1838 min
Spill The InkDeveloping a strong strategic plan for your law firmMany lawyers spend a lifetime building their legal practices into thriving businesses with an abundance of clients. While your day-to-day grind is vital to sustaining operations, it's also essential to have a strong strategic plan in place to secure your law firm's future. Your firm's strategic plan is the blueprint not only for when challenges and crises arise, but it's also the roadmap attorneys are referencing for guidance on how to succeed and grow in the firm. How should attorneys approach the strategic planning process for the best results? In this episode of Spill the Ink, Michelle...
2022-11-0429 min
Spill The InkHow to improve your legal marketing strategy for the Hispanic marketYour law firm's marketing strategy is tailored to resonate with the types of clients who you want to reach and attract. However, an award-worthy marketing strategy for an American audience can fall short when simply translated verbatim to another language. Achieving a successful multicultural and/or multilingual campaign requires extra legwork and a different approach to ensure your messaging hits its intended mark. Otherwise, you stand to quickly lose potential clients. In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, Michelle Calcote King talks with Liel Levy, the co-founder of Nanato Media and award-winning author of Beyond Se...
2022-10-0724 minSpill The InkInsights into today's facility owners with Howie Ferguson, executive director of the Construction Owners Association of AmericaHowie Ferguson is an experienced leader and is the Executive Director of the Construction Owners Association of America. The national association consists of public and private owners who manage facilities development and capital improvement projects. The organization supports owners' success in the design and construction of buildings and facilities through education, information and collaboration. Howie has a thorough background in civil engineering, serving over nine years as a commissioned officer in the Civil Engineer Corps of the US Navy. He spent roughly 28 years as an institutional owner, including almost two decades as a Project Manager at the...
2022-04-1135 min
The ClimbEp #90 - Managing Relationships with Michelle Calcote KingEp #90 - Managing Relationships with Michelle Calcote King - In another production of The Climb brought to you by the Digital Mastermind Group, Jon and David speak with Michelle Calcote King of Reputation Ink about her journey of launching her agency and managing the relationships in her life through the process.
2022-03-1856 min
The ClimbEp #90 - Managing Relationships with Michelle Calcote KingEp #90 - Managing Relationships with Michelle Calcote King - In another production of The Climb brought to you by the Digital Mastermind Group, Jon and David speak with Michelle Calcote King of Reputation Ink about her journey of launching her agency and managing the relationships in her life through the process.
2022-03-1856 minSpill The InkThe role of sales in professional services firms with Mark Wainwright of Wainwright InsightMark Wainwright is an established consultant for business development and sales growth. Through his current firm, Wainwright Insight, he applies his method of fractional sales management to help clients get organized and grow their practice. He also serves as a consultant for giving campaigns, fundraising, and sponsorships for purpose-driven organizations. Prior to his own firm, Mark had worked in marketing for businesses such as Kotter and GGLO. He received his first job out of college at K2 Sports, where he first learned some of his managerial principles in their bicycle division. In this episode:
2022-03-1531 minSpill The InkNurturing leadership and culture within law firms with Marcie Borgal Shunk of The Tilt InstituteWith more than 20 years of experience consulting law firms, Marcie Borgal Shunk considers herself a sociologist of lawyers. She is the President and Founder of The Tilt Institute, a firm that provides leadership advisory and training along with business support. Concurrently, she serves as a Fellow of the College of Law Practice Management and is a Faculty Member at Conscious Inclusion Company. Marcie worked with The BTI Consulting Group for over 10 years where she developed an expertise in market research. In addition to all of these positions, she is also a frequent speaker on topics such as...
2022-01-1723 minSpill The InkDigital marketing tips for AEC firms with Lindsay Diven of Marketers Take FlightLindsay Diven is a Marketing and Sales Manager for the Blackbox Connectors and a well-known figure in the AEC field. She works closely with her clients and team at Full Sail Partners to research new connectors and how to use them to streamline processes. She is the Founder of Marketers Take Flight, which provides proposal and career development for marketers. She also hosts a podcast of the same name. Previous to her current work, she served as the Director of Marketing and Business Development at BRPH. In this episode: AEC firms have the difficult task...
2022-01-1029 minSpill The InkHow law firms can master responding to RFPs with Matthew Prinn of RFP Advisory GroupMatthew Prinn is an executive with 20 years of experience in legal pricing, marketing and operations. He is the current Principal at RFP Advisory Group, which works with general counsel to manage legal spend and requests for proposals. He honed his expertise at K&L Gates, where he worked for over a decade in business development. Over his career, Matthew has operated on both the buying and selling side of legal services, giving him a unique perspective on RFP. In this episode: While law firms tend to be traditional, the legal landscape is changing. Alternative legal...
2022-01-0332 minSpill The InkThe legal media series: Valerie A. Danner With Legal Management MagazineValerie A. Danner is the Senior Managing Editor of Legal Management magazine, which is the flagship publication of the Association of Legal Administrators. Legal Management is published 10 times a year and features scholarly articles targeting law firm managers and managing partners. Valerie has served as an editor at several prestigious companies, including Krames StayWell, the Institute of Real Estate Management, and the American Massage Therapy Association. Across her positions, she has more than 20 years of experience in content creation, having worked in both digital and print media. In this episode: Legal media is o...
2021-12-2714 minSpill The InkThe market for 'revenue enablers' in today's law firms with Jennifer Johnson of Calibrate LegalJennifer Johnson is the Founder and CEO of Calibrate Legal, a consultancy that specializes in recruiting services and legal marketing. They work with diverse applicants to find their way in the legal industry and help law firms achieve the results they're working towards. She has two decades of experience in her field, having spent six years at an Am Law 100 firm. Over the years, Jennifer has served in multiple leadership roles, including Secretary of the International Board of Directors for the Legal Marketing Association and President of Young Executives for Success. She was named as a Global T...
2021-12-2035 minSpill The InkTeaching you how to write and manage winning AEC proposals with Matt Handal of Help Everybody EverydayMatt Handal is a specialist in contracts, helping firms of all kinds write winning contracts on projects ranging from $500,000 to $2 billion. In 2009, he started his own agency, Help Everybody Everyday, which offers both proposal services as well as instructional content. Concurrently, he continues to work as a Business Development Manager at Trauner Consulting Services, Inc., where he's worked for more than 18 years. Matt is best known for his book Proposal Development Secrets, which shares his insight for proposal development. His background in marketing for industrial companies gives him a unique and thorough perspective that he uses in...
2021-12-1340 minSpill The InkAccount-based marketing for AEC firms with Perryn Olson of REX.onePerryn Olson is a renowned leader in both marketing strategy and business technology, serving as the Vice President of Marketing for REX.one. The company provides comprehensive engineering and construction solutions under a single umbrella. He has also worked for other businesses in the construction industry including The Brand Constructors and Hinge Marketing. Perryn is a Certified Marketer through the Society for Marketing Professional Services (SMPS) and was the former President of the Louisiana division. His start came from a 14-year tenure at Design the Planet, starting as a design intern and climbing all the way into t...
2021-12-0643 minSpill The InkLeadership, Education and Diversity in Architecture With Marc Teer of Black SpectaclesMarc Teer is the Founder and CEO of Black Spectacles and Spectacular. Black Spectacles is a business that offers online videos for architects including courses and tutorials. Their democratized approach to learning is designed for newcomers and established architects alike. He is a Member of The Economic Club of Chicago and the Entrepreneurs' Organization. Marc has learned what architects need to thrive through firsthand experience, working in architecture for Gensler and Legat Architects. He received his bachelor's degree in architecture from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and his master's in architecture from Clemson University. In 2020, he was e...
2021-11-1529 minSpill The InkNavigating the legal industry's rapid changes with Gerry Riskin of Edge InternationalWith a long and intensive career, Gerry Riskin has made his name in consultation for law firms. He is a Co-founding Partner at Edge International, serving clients around the globe for nearly 40 years. His specialties include leadership, governance and structure within law firms. He has served the Conference Board of Canada and is a Visiting Fellow for The College of Law in London among other universities. Gerry is also an author, writing books such as The Successful Lawyer, Herding Cats, beyond KNOWING and Creating the Marketing Mindset. In addition to his consulting, he also serves as a...
2021-11-0838 minSpill The InkHow to make virtual events more engaging, interactive and magical with Ken SkyKen Sky is an expert on virtual event production and is the primary producer and coach at Ken Sky Unlimited. He particularly specializes in Zoom meetings, transforming the mundane into engaging. He also works in seminars, conferences, ceremonies and all kinds of meetings. He is the Co-founder of a DIY executive coaching program. Until recently, Ken also worked at the YMCA-YWCA of Winnipeg as a Childcare Supervisor. In addition, he also worked as a technical trainer and RESP account administrator, where he picked up his computer and presentation skills. In this episode: Zoom...
2021-11-0148 minSpill The InkHow law firm culture impacts business development with David FreemanDavid Freeman is an expert in law firm leadership, currently serving as a consultant for both individual lawyers and law firms through the David Freeman Consulting Group. He specifically works with law firms on their leadership, business development and client service. He has also started focusing on remote work consultation in the wake of COVID-19. David is also the Founder of Law Firm CultureShift which was started to work with leadership teams and improve culture at law firms. He is an established two-time best-selling author who has written on each of his specializations. David has been inducted i...
2021-10-2538 minSpill The InkBusiness development tips from a former big-law attorney turned coach with Elise Holtzman of The Lawyer's EdgeElise Holtzman is a trusted attorney and a certified coach. She is best known as the President and Founder of The Lawyer's Edge — a boutique firm that provides guidance and resources to both attorneys and organizations. She has been coaching and consulting lawyers for over 13 years, drawing from her own experience in law. Elise is also the host of The Lawyer's Edge Podcast, where she interviews successful attorneys, legal marketing specialists, business leaders and authors. Elise has worked for multiple law firms, including Morgan, Lewis & Bockius as well as Fried Frank. She has worked extensively in commercial re...
2021-10-1834 minSpill The InkHow law firms can survive a PR crisis with crisis simulations featuring Bill Coletti of Kith Crisis ManagementBill Coletti is a global crisis strategist, a C-suite advisor and a reputation management specialist. He is the CEO of Kith Crisis Management, which works with businesses to improve crisis communication and manage public perception. He has more than 25 years of experience working with global corporations such as Target, AT&T and American Airlines. Prior to Kith, Bill served as the Executive Vice President of Hill+Knowlton Strategies and as a Senior Strategist at Public Strategies. He worked as an executive director and political campaigner before finding his niche in crisis management and strategy. In t...
2021-10-0439 minSpill The InkHow law firms can make lasting changes in diversity and inclusion with Chris Kirby and Dominica McGinnis of Bridgefield GroupChris Kirby is an established professional coach and the Founder of BridgeField Group. He has worked as a business development coach since 2000, working initially for the WJF Institute before founding PCT Solutions in 2005. He then founded BridgeField Group which offers development and diversity programs for firms of all sizes. He has firsthand experience in law, having started his career as an attorney. Now he uses the experience to give firms and individual clients the tools they need to excel. Dominica McGinnis is an experienced coach herself and the CEO and Co-founder of BridgeField Group. She started out...
2021-09-2755 minSpill The InkMarketing tips for solo attorneys and small firms with Allison Williams of The Law Firm MentorAllison Williams is a renowned lawyer, business coach and the proud owner of both Law Firm Mentor and the Williams Law Group, LLC. She most recently founded Law Firm Mentor to help small law firms achieve growth and increase revenue. She is also the current CEO for Williams Law Group which operates as a full-service family firm. Allison is an acclaimed lawyer, operating as a Fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers and certified by the Supreme Court of New Jersey for Matrimonial Law. She has worked for multiple law firms and even spent time as t...
2021-09-2043 minSpill The InkHow to improve your law firm's LinkedIn with Stefanie Marrone of Stefanie Marrone ConsultingStefanie Marrone is a consultant for law firms of all sizes as well as B2C and B2B companies. She brings almost 20 years of legal marketing experience to the table, working for notable firms such as Sullivan & Cromwell and Morrison & Foerster over the years. Before she switched over to full-time consulting, her last position was the Director of Business Development and Marketing at Tarter Krinsky & Drogin LLP. Stefanie has also spent much of her career as a prolific writer, getting her start as an Assistant Articles Editor at Redbook Magazine. She continues to write for her...
2021-09-1343 minSpill The InkHow to become a reliable media source with Christopher Melcher of Walzer Melcher LLPChristopher Melcher is a leading name in the field of family law and a Partner of Walzer Melcher LLP. He primarily works with celebrities, business owners and trust beneficiaries in divorce cases. His specialization lies in discretional practice and navigating the financial aspects. Christopher brings over 27 years of total experience to the table for his clients, with almost 20 of those at his current firm. His first experience as a lawyer came from his father's law firm where he handled criminal defense and personal injury cases. Aside from his practice, he also teaches as an Adjunct Professor at...
2021-09-0644 minSpill The InkRaising the standards for legal surveys and awards with Kerry Benn of Law360Kerry Benn is the Director of Series, Surveys and Data of Law360, working with her team to manage their data and surveys. The subscription-based news source has a staff of over 170, staying up to date on legal developments and intellectual property. She has worked for the news outlet for more than eight years, starting as an Assistant Managing Editor. Kerry has had a rich career in editing, also working for the Dow Jones and Mail Tribune before her current position. Outside of her work, she was a champion on Jeopardy back in 2017. In this episode:
2021-08-3038 minSpill The InkThe power of research in content marketing with Michele Linn of Mantis ResearchMichele Linn is a content marketing guru, having worked in the field since its early days. She is the Co-founder and Chief Strategy Officer of Mantis Research, which publishes and spotlights research in marketing. She has written and published hundreds of articles on the subject, being recognized as one of Folio's Top Women in Media in 2015. Michele cut her teeth as the Head of Editorial at the Content Marketing Institute. She was the first employee hired there and helped the organization grow to an audience of 200,000 subscribers. She's no stranger to podcasts either, having co-hosted the Marketing...
2021-08-2324 minSpill The InkHolding law firms to a higher standard with Elizabeth Petit of Best LawyersElizabeth Petit is the Director of Research and Development and Managing Editor at Best Lawyers. Her role involves oversight of planning, research and execution for the company's programs, including Best Lawyers and Best Law Firms. She also works as Best Lawyers' in-house Project Manager for any of their new business ventures. Elizabeth's career branches into arts management at First Avenue Associates and as adjunct faculty of art history at the University of South Carolina. Despite her many roles, Elizabeth still finds time to volunteer at the Harvest Hope Food Bank. In this episode: T...
2021-08-1632 minSpill The InkThe thorough process of ranking law firms with Michael Rafalowich of Euromoney Institutional InvestorMichael Rafalowich is the Litigation Managing Editor at Euromoney Institutional Investor. He has been with the company for more than 12 years, entering as a writer and editor before starting his current position in 2013. Euromoney is among Europe's greatest financial institutions and a leader in business publishing with Benchmark Litigation. Michael is known as a proficient writer and researcher, with his main expertise in legal and financial industries. His diverse career has spanned from freelance work to credit consultation to working as a criminal courts researcher. He applies that same research mentality to bolster the Benchmark Litigation brand...
2021-08-0951 minSpill The InkHow to differentiate and market your law firm with Ken Hardison of PILMMAKen Hardison is the President of PILMMA, a marketing and management resource designed for attorneys. PILMMA, or the Powerful Innovative Legal Marketing and Management Association, works to provide its members with the tools and education to grow their law firm. In conjunction with his company, Ken is also a legal marketing coach and certified Scaling Up coach, having worked in the industry for more than 30 years. In that time, he has developed and sold two different seven-figure law firms. Known as the "Millionaire Maker," he shares his knowledge with other attorneys so they can reach their full...
2021-08-0231 minSpill The InkRevolutionizing marketing through meaningful videos with Melissa Costello of melissacostello.comMelissa Costello is the Creative Lead and Chief Storyteller at MELISSACOSTELLO.com. Her passion is found in telling the stories of people and businesses through creative video marketing. She started the company in 2016 and has worked with clients such as Magic Johnson and President Barack Obama. Melissa has been awarded domestic and international honors for the videos she produced over a 30-year career. Now she applies those same skills to help companies of all sizes establish their brand. In this episode: Marketing, when broken down to its core idea, is telling a story t...
2021-06-2828 minSpill The InkMaking the most of your social media with Adrian Dayton of Clearview SocialAdrian Dayton is the Founder and CEO of ClearView Social, a company that helps simplify social media for professionals. He is known for his keen understanding of social media and business development for lawyers, having practiced law himself in the past. Adrian has trained over 22,000 professionals and often shares his knowledge as a keynote speaker and retreat facilitator. Adrian is also a writer whose work has been published in Forbes, Above the Law and the National Law Journal. He is the author of two books: LinkedIn and Blogs for Lawyers and Social Media for Lawyers: Twitter Edition.
2021-06-2229 minSpill The InkAccelerating business development for law firms with David Ackert of Ackert Inc.David Ackert is a pioneer in business development innovation and is the Founder and President of Ackert Inc. He has over two decades of experience in developing revenue acceleration programs, including Trainer, Viewer and Pipeline. He serves as Founder for the Executive Roundtables for Law Firm Leaders and The Business Development Institute, both of which seek to give lawyers the tools they need to succeed. David has mentored thousands of professionals over his extensive career. He continues to serve as a keynote speaker at partner retreats and guest lecturer at universities such as UCLA and USC. He...
2021-05-1337 minSpill The InkCultivating the next generation of lawyers with Wendy Merrill of DRIWendy Merrill is a successful businesswoman of many titles, including author, executive, speaker and consultant. She is currently the Executive Vice President of Growth Strategy and Branding at DRI, which seeks to sharpen the skills of defense attorneys. Simultaneously, Wendy still serves as the Founder of StrategyHorse Consulting Group. Their passion is to inspire leadership and growth in young professionals through unique workshops and retreats. Wendy's first book, Path to Impact: The Rising Leader's Guide to Growing Smart, was published in 2019 and is also designed to cultivate leaders of the next generation. Outside of her...
2021-05-0731 minSpill The InkManaging partner series: Aaron Y. Strauss of A.Y. StraussAaron Y. Strauss is the Founder and Managing Partner of A.Y. Strauss, a firm that provides legal counsel for commercial transactions and litigation in the areas of commercial real estate, construction contracting, labor and employment, bankruptcy and franchising law. At A.Y. Strauss, Aaron is responsible for establishing the firm's long-term strategy and vision. He oversees a team of nationally recognized attorneys who deliver top-level professional work and personalized, highly responsive service. Before founding A.Y. Strauss, Aaron practiced at Kelley, Drye & Warren LLP and Riker, Danzig, Scherer, Hyland & Perretti LLP. Aaron was recognized as a "r...
2021-04-2925 minSpill The InkManaging partner series: Ken Levinson, Levinson and StefaniKen Levinson is a Founding Partner of Levinson and Stefani, a Chicago-based firm focusing on personal injury law. Ken has spent over 20 years helping represent disenfranchised clients against corporate giants, and he serves as an advocate for accident survivors and child safety. Ken is also the Vice-Chair of the American Association for Justice Trucking Group and the co-author of the latest edition of Litigating Major Automobile Injury and Death Cases. Ken has been recognized as one of the top attorneys in Illinois by Leading Lawyers and Super Lawyers magazines. He was also named one of the "40 Lawyers...
2021-04-2226 minSpill The InkManaging partner series: Jamie Rubin, InfoLawGroup LLPJamie Rubin is a Partner at InfoLawGroup LLP, a national boutique law firm focusing on the intersection of privacy and data security, technology, advertising and marketing. Jamie specializes in advertising, marketing and promotions law, new media law, technology law, privacy law and entertainment law. At InfoLawGroup LLP, Jamie works on national and digital advertising campaigns, celebrity spokesperson agreements, sweepstakes, user-generated content promotions and much more. He is recognized as a "Leader in the Field for Media & Entertainment" by Chambers and Partners and was named one of the "40 Illinois Attorneys Under 40 to Watch" by Law Bulletin Publishing Company.
2021-04-1535 minSpill The InkBuilding your personal brand through networking and business developmentSteve Fretzin is a three-time author, business development coach for attorneys and President of FRETZIN, INC. He is also a ProVisors Group Leader and host of the podcast, BE THAT LAWYER. Steve has 16 years of experience helping attorneys double or triple their books through engaging programs and free resources. At FRETZIN, INC., Steve uses his 20 years of coaching experience to work with attorneys in all practice areas. He provides business development coaching and training, peer advisory, strategy consulting, business planning and much more. In this episode: In a competitive industry, how do you m...
2021-04-0834 minSpill The InkManaging partner series: Andrew Schpak, Barran Liebman LLPAndrew Schpak is the Co-Managing Partner of Barran Liebman LLP. At Barran Liebman LLP, Andrew has worked with government entities, businesses of all sizes and nonprofit organizations to represent management in employment litigation and provide advice on employment matters. In addition to his work at Barran Liebman LLP, Andrew serves as a Member of the Board of Governors for the American Bar Association (ABA), is a Board Member for the Portland Business Alliance and is a Member of the ABA Standing Committee on Bar Activities and Services. He is a Life Fellow of the American Bar Foundation a...
2021-04-0125 minSpill The InkManaging partner series: Eido Walny, Walny Legal Group LLCEido Walny is a Managing Partner, Founder and Estate Planning Attorney at Walny Legal Group LLC. Eido is a third-generation entrepreneur, and he started Walny Legal Group LLC to change the way clients think about their relationship with their lawyer. Eido is experienced in handling all levels of estate planning, asset protection, and business succession. In addition to his work at the Walny Legal Group LLC, Eido has given talks around the country and written articles for both local and national publications. His list of honors includes "Advisors with Heart" by Trusts & Estate Magazine, "Leader in the...
2021-03-2532 min
Say it OnlineThe Difference Between Marketing And PR With Michelle Calcote KingMost agency owners seem to think PR and marketing are the exact same thing. Newsflash! If you don’t know the difference, Michelle Calcote King is here to tell you that you’re probably missing out on some opportunities. Okay… so how are PR and marketing related? They’re kind of like cousins: there’s a lot of crossover, and they compliment each other well, but they definitely aren’t the exact same thing. Before founding Reputation Ink in 2011, Michelle was the Senior Vice President of a national PR firm focused on corporate law firms. In that role...
2021-02-171h 00
The Lawyer's EdgeMichelle Calcote King | Using the Power of Media to Establish Your Expertise and Raise Your VisibilityMichelle Calcote King is the Principal and President of Reputation Ink, an award-winning B2B and professional services marketing and public relations agency. Although she is based out of Jacksonville, Florida, Michelle works with both nationwide and global firms to help them build their reputations, communicate their expertise, and grow their businesses. Before founding Reputation Ink in 2011, Michelle managed a team of 18 senior-level consultants at Jaffe PR, a national PR firm that provides services for lawyers and law firms. Michelle has held a series of positions in marketing and public relations over the past two decades, and i...
2020-09-0838 min