Shows
Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusHow to Find Great People For Your Law Firm with Chris Murphy & Aaron RothertFinding great people is one of the biggest challenges law firm owners face. In this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Steve Riley sits down with Aaron Rothert and Chris Murphy to tackle the constant complaint: "There are no good people out there." The truth is, great talent does exist, but many firms miss it because they hire reactively, define roles too vaguely, and approach the process with the wrong mindset. Aaron and Chris challenge that thinking and share practical ways to hire with more clarity, strategy, and confidence. Together, they share six strategies for...
2026-04-2731 min
Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusLaw Firm Marketing in the AI Era: How Lawyers Build Trust and Stand Out with Robert RoseRobert Rose returns to Great Practice, Great Life for a timely conversation about one of the biggest marketing challenges lawyers face right now: how to build trust when AI has made it easy for every firm to sound the same. In this episode, Robert and Steve Riley explore what AI cannot replace: wisdom, human judgment, lived experience, empathy, and the personal story that makes a lawyer truly distinctive. They talk about why law firms need to move beyond generic content and start communicating the real perspective, credibility, and humanity that clients and referral sources are actually looking...
2026-04-2045 min
Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusHow Lawyers Can Be Vulnerable Without Losing Authority: Leadership Lessons with Craig Ritchie Most lawyers feel like they have to be the superhero, but what if taking off the cape is what actually makes you a stronger leader? In this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Steve Riley sits down with Craig Ritchie, a family law attorney and pastor, for a conversation about leadership, delegation, and the danger of the "superhero" mindset. Craig shares how learning to lead with more vulnerability, trust, and grace changed the way he serves clients, works with his team, and manages the demands of a...
2026-04-1346 min
Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusReferral Marketing for Lawyers: Build Better Relationships & Get More Referrals with Barb Betts Relying on ads, SEO, and AI tools but still want stronger referrals and deeper trust? In this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Steve Riley welcomes back relationship expert, keynote speaker, and author of The Relationship Advantage, Barb Betts, for a conversation about one of the most overlooked drivers of law firm growth: trusted human relationships. But building those relationships is not about networking harder or simply asking for more referrals. It requires a different approach, one rooted in authenticity, consistency, and genuine engagement. Barb...
2026-04-0650 min
Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusWhat Lawyers Can Learn from Elvis: 4 Surprising Lessons on Success, Marketing, and Burnout Steve Riley did not expect to learn anything at Graceland, but a December trip up the Mississippi, ending in Memphis with his wife and close friends, turned into an unexpected lesson in law firm growth, marketing, and the cost of success. In this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Steve shares four surprising lessons from Elvis Presley's life that apply directly to attorneys building a practice and trying to protect a life worth living. From Elvis's personal code, TCB, "Taking Care of Business in a Flash," to Colonel Tom Parker's brilliant content marketing...
2026-03-3038 min
Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusHow to Know If a Team Member Is Ready for a Promotion in Your Law Firm - 3 Promotion Traps to Avoid with Patti Paz | Ep 175 What's one of the real ceilings on your firm's growth? Often, law firm promotion is one of them because the moment a firm owner wants to elevate someone and a team member wants to grow, the conversation can quietly break down before either side knows how to move forward. In this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Steve Riley sits down with Patti Paz, coach and facilitator of the Atticus Team Leader Certification Program, to unpack what they call the promotion trap. Patti brings both law firm experience and...
2026-03-1652 min
Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusWhy "Work Harder" Fails: Law Firm Business Strategy Shift What if the strategy that made you successful is now the very thing holding you back? In this episode, Steve sits down with returning guest Dre Baldwin—author, founder of Work on Your Game University, and fearless thinker—to unpack why high performers, especially lawyers, default to outworking every problem…and why that instinct eventually stops working. Dre and Steve dig into one of the most common traps for attorneys: misdiagnosis. You assume the problem is what you can see; clients aren't paying, leads have slowed down, billing feels messy, the team can't keep u...
2026-03-0933 min
Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusLawyer Mindset: Stop Chasing 'The Best' & Beat Yesterday Stop Racing Someone Else's Race and Start Winning Yours! That's the message Great Practice, Great Life has today. Steve Riley welcomes back Jake Thompson, the Chief Encouragement Officer at Compete Every Day and an Atticus community favorite, to deliver a wake-up call every ambitious attorney and firm owner needs to hear. Drawing fresh inspiration from his two newest books, The Line, a compelling story about touching the line and claiming that extra inch of excellence, and Beat Yesterday, the research-driven guide to outrunning your own yesterday, Jake reveals why the relentless pursuit of...
2026-03-0241 min
Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusScale Your Law Firm via Group Coaching: Aaron Rothert and Chris Murphy In this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Steve Riley is joined by Aaron Rothert and Chris Murphy, both attorneys and practice advisors, for a candid conversation about why law firm group coaching delivers results that one-on-one coaching often can't match. We dig into the power of group programs, why growth stalls in isolation, and how stepping into the right peer environment can radically accelerate both firm performance and quality of life. Aaron brings the coach's perspective on dedicated focus time, the "if they can do it, so can I" breakthrough moment, and...
2026-02-1632 min
Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusLaw Firm Growth Starts with Healing: Lead Better with Chris Earley In this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, host Steve Riley sits down with plaintiff's attorney Chris Earley to explore what truly limits law firm growth and why it is often not marketing, systems, or strategy. Chris shares how unresolved anger, past trauma, and limiting beliefs created an invisible ceiling in his firm, keeping him reactive, overextended, and stuck despite doing all the right things. Through therapy, deep self reflection, and writing his memoir Scaling the Wall, Chris did the inner work that transformed how he leads, practices law, and lives his life.
2026-02-0939 min
Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusLaw Firm Merger Case Study: How Sasso Guerrero & Henderlite Succeeded (Part 2)This episode continues our two-part series on the law firm merger decision. In Part 1, Steve and Daniel explored how to determine whether merging is the right move. In Part 2, the focus turns to execution and what actually makes a law firm merger succeed. On this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Steve Riley is joined by Molly Sasso, Christie Guerrero, Jay Henderlite, and Atticus Practice Advisor Daniel Struna for a candid breakdown of a successful law firm merger in action. Using their Jacksonville-based family law firm as a case study, they walk through the deliberate process that...
2026-02-021h 07
Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusLaw Firm Merger Mistakes: 3 Biggest to Avoid (Part 1) | Daniel Struna In this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Steve Riley is joined by Atticus Practice Advisor Daniel Struna for a candid conversation about one of the most consequential decisions a law firm owner can make: whether to merge law practices. Drawing on years of experience advising law firm owners, along with Steve's own history with failed mergers, they identify exactly where law firm consolidations go wrong. The problem is rarely legal talent or goodwill. Too often, lawyers merge based on mutual respect or personal chemistry without pressure-testing whether their visions and financial realities...
2026-01-2636 min
Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusWhat Should Law Firms Charge? Fixing Pricing for Thin Margins with Jacquette Timmons In this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Steve Riley brings back financial behaviorist and pricing strategist Jacquette Timmons to tackle the question that makes even experienced attorneys hesitate: "What should I charge?" When your firm is busy, but margins feel thin, pricing often isn't "wrong," it's inconsistent because the logic underneath it is unclear. You're working hard, saying yes to work, and staying booked, but the income doesn't match the effort. Jacquette challenges the common advice to "charge what you're worth" and explains why tying fees...
2026-01-1934 min
Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusLawyer Goal Setting 2026: Design Your Lane to Stay Focused – Part 2 You can have the best intentions in the world, but without focus, they won't turn into results. In Part 2 of this two-part series, Steve Riley helps lawyers move from insight to execution by designing a practical structure for 2026. Instead of piling on resolutions, Steve makes a counterintuitive case for choosing just two goals: one Great Life goal and one Great Practice goal. Nothing more. He explains why this kind of restraint isn't limiting, it's liberating, and why it dramatically increases the odds of real change. The episode builds on...
2026-01-1234 min
Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusLawyer Goal Setting 2026: Why Plans Get Hijacked – Part 1Most lawyers don't struggle with setting goals. They struggle with protecting them. As a new year begins, many high performers find themselves frustrated, tired, and wondering why carefully written plans never quite survive real life. In Part 1 of this two-part series, Steve lays the groundwork for designing a stronger 2026 by first assessing what really happened in 2025. Before you set new goals, you need a structure that can actually protect them. Using a simple driving metaphor, Steve breaks goal execution into four core elements: your map, your steering, your windshield, and your lane. Together, they explain...
2026-01-0529 min
Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusLaw Firm Overwhelm Fix: From Failing to Focused with Cut-Protect-Refocus In this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Steve Riley breaks down one of the toughest challenges in law firm leadership: the feeling that you're failing when life and work start to pile up. Using the story of Kay, a team leader pushed to her limits, Steve explains why overwhelm is rarely a personal flaw and more often a sign that your systems, habits, or support structures need to evolve. Steve reframes failure as feedback, the kind that helps attorneys recognize when they've outgrown the strategies that once worked. For anyone juggling client...
2025-11-2427 min
Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusFrom Free to Paid Consults: High-Value Assessment Strategy with Lonny BalbiOn this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Steve Riley sits down with Calgary family law attorney Lonny Balbi to explore how he shifted his consultations from free to paid, and why that change became a game-changer for his practice. Lonny's innovative Balbi Marital Assessment package breaks away from the traditional free consultation model. Instead of giving away time, he designed a structured, paid service that delivers real value to clients and positions his firm as a leader in a crowded market. The result? Clients feel cared for, lawyers reclaim their worth, and the process sets the...
2025-10-0649 min
Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusLaw Firm Leadership Lessons: Discipline & Purpose with Patrick McLainOn this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Steve Riley sits down with attorney and former Marine Corps officer Patrick McLain to share the leadership lesson lawyers need most today. Patrick's path took him from serving as a Marine JAG officer and military judge to building a successful criminal defense practice. Along the way, he discovered that the same principles that carried him through combat zones could also guide him in the courtroom and in leadership. Patrick talks about the challenges of transitioning from military life to private practice, and how niching down in criminal defense allowed...
2025-09-0836 min
Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusGreat Practice Great Life: Lessons from My Father Steve RileyIn this deeply personal solo episode of Great Practice, Great Life, host Steve Riley opens his heart to honor the memory of his father, Donald C. Riley. What unfolds is not just a tribute, but a vulnerable reflection on the man who shaped him through stories, lessons, and quiet acts of courage. While growing up, Steve's home was filled with fables told by his father. Yet these weren't just stories. They were lessons that last. Donald's career as an FBI agent gave him no shortage of experiences. However, it was his gift for storytelling that left the...
2025-09-0148 min
Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusLeading Lions and Prima Donnas: John Morgan's Leadership Lessons – Part 2 | Ep. 138John Morgan doesn't lead quietly—and he doesn't build small. In part two of his conversation with Steve Riley, he shares the systems, standards, and mindset that built a law empire. On this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Steve Riley welcomes back John Morgan, founder of Morgan & Morgan, for an insightful continuation of their conversation. In this episode, you'll discover John Morgan's leadership lessons on how to grow a law firm with integrity. He also shares how long-term vision, and well-built systems can support both business growth and personal success. John shares the systems he...
2025-06-3042 min
Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusGrow or Die: John Morgan's Relentless Strategy for Law Firm Expansion – Part 1 | Ep. 137In this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Steve Riley is joined by visionary attorney and entrepreneur John Morgan for a focused conversation on law firm expansion. As the founder of Morgan & Morgan, John built one of the largest plaintiffs' firms in the United States. He explains how a growth-focused mindset and strong systems helped his firm scale in a fast-changing legal industry. John, now 69, continues to lead with a "grow or die" mindset. Back in 2009, he wrote a speech that shaped his entire growth strategy. He compared the future of law to the shift from stagecoaches...
2025-06-2331 min
Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusThe Biggest Marketing Mistakes Lawyers Make and How to Fix Them with Robert Rose | Ep. 136In this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Steve Riley welcomes back content marketing guru Robert Rose for a powerful conversation tailored to attorneys and law firm owners looking to improve their marketing strategy. Robert shares how lawyers can turn their natural communication strengths, advocacy, storytelling, and clarity into a winning content marketing strategy. His tips are practical, achievable, and designed for busy professionals. Many small and solo law firms rely almost exclusively on referrals. While referrals are important, they aren't a full marketing plan. Robert explains why a consistent and structured marketing strategy is...
2025-06-1659 min
Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusEscaping the 3 Time Traps That Stall Law Firm Growth: Inside the Mind of Shawn McNalis | Ep. 133In this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Steve Riley explores time management and focus strategies with Shawn McNalis, an Atticus Practice Advisor and trainer with over 30 years of experience. Together, they uncover the most common time traps that prevent attorneys from reaching their full potential. They also share proven strategies for defending strategic time blocks and establishing boundaries that support professional growth. Shawn brings her wealth of knowledge from coaching thousands of lawyers and co-authoring pivotal books on time management and performance. Steve and Shawn delve into the "time starvation trap"—a common pitfall where attorneys co...
2025-05-2639 min
Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusStop Hiding: The Confidence to Build the Practice You Want with Barb Betts | Ep. 132In this follow-up episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Steve Riley welcomes back guest Barb Betts for a deeper dive into a powerful idea: the confidence to build a thriving law practice begins with embracing your authentic self. For lawyers, authenticity isn't just a buzzword—it's a strategic advantage that drives client trust, firm growth, and personal satisfaction. Barb shares her powerful concept of "17 moments"—life-changing events like teenage pregnancy and severe hair loss—that taught her to stop hiding and stand in her truth. These moments are critical for attorneys, revealing the resilience and identity needed to nav...
2025-05-1934 min
Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusIs Your Intake Process Costing You Great Clients? with Lori Pulvermacher | Ep. 130What if transforming your client intake process was the key to a stronger, more sustainable law firm? In this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Steve sits down with Lori Pulvermacher to explore this often-overlooked but critical topic. Lori explains why the client intake process is essential for long-term success—and how it's frequently neglected. She and Steve discuss how implementing a consistent, documented system helps maintain high standards of service while reducing daily stress. Lori also shares practical tips to improve time management and create a healthier work environment for your entire team. They di...
2025-05-0538 min
Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusThe Three Biggest Challenges Lawyers Face When Starting or Growing a Practice in 2025 with Glenn Gutek | Ep. 129In this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, we flip the script and put thought leader Steve Riley in the guest seat to answer a powerful question: What does it really take to start or grow a law practice in 2025 while staying true to your vision, your values, and your well-being? Guest host Glenn Gutek and Steve explore the dynamic and ever-evolving landscape of the legal profession, discussing how rapid changes in technology, politics, and economics contribute to the anxiety and stress attorneys face today. Steve shares insights on how lawyers can maintain a healthy balance between...
2025-04-2858 min
Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusReferral Marketing Secrets to Scale Your Law Firm with Craig Goldenfarb | 128Referral-based marketing for law firms is the key to long-term growth, client trust, and sustainable success In this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Steve Riley is joined by Craig Goldenfarb, CEO and founder of GOLDLAW, a South Florida-based personal injury law firm, to break down the proven strategies behind referral-based marketing for law firms. With a team of 85 employees, including 12 attorneys, Craig shares how nearly a quarter of his cases still come from intentional, relationship-driven referrals—even after scaling his firm and investing in broad advertising. Craig walks us through how he built a co...
2025-04-2156 min
Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusBuilding Your Growth Council to Grow Your Practice with Steve Riley | Ep. 127Discover how creating your own personal board of advisors can help you make better decisions and grow your practice with confidence. On this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Steve Riley shares a transformative approach that reshaped both his career and mindset: The Growth Council Strategy. Early in his career, Steve realized that not everyone in his life could help him navigate the complex problems he faced, either professionally or personally. He needed something more—a space where he could problem-solve quickly, gain perspective, and clear the mental clutter. So he created his own growth co...
2025-04-1438 min
Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusHow Employee Reviews Unlock Growth, Accountability, and Freedom with Ashley Waters | Ep. 125Are your employee reviews helping your firm grow or just checking a box? In this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Steve sits down again with Ashley Waters, an estate planning attorney from Tennessee. Hear them discuss how a structured, repeatable employee review process helped her firm grow and thrive. As her practice expanded, Ashley realized the importance of effective feedback loops and strategic delegation. These key elements have strengthened her team and increased profitability. Ashley shares how she initially approached employee reviews with uncertainty but soon recognized their role in fostering accountability, professional development...
2025-03-3143 min
Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusLaw Firm Onboarding Guide: Seamless New Hire Process with Lori PulvermacherWhat if you could transform your law firm's onboarding process from a rushed, haphazard experience into a seamless and strategic journey integrating new team members? Last week, we explored the power of strategic onboarding and how a well-structured process can reduce turnover, boost productivity, and strengthen firm culture. But what does great onboarding actually look like in practice? In this follow-up episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Steve and Atticus Practice Advisor Lori Pulvermacher go beyond the strategy to break down the step-by-step process of seamless onboarding—giving you a roadmap to fully integrate new hires with co...
2025-02-1056 min
Great Practice. Great Life. by Atticus2025 Goal Setting for Lawyers: Turn Vision into Reality with Steve RileyCan a simple shift in mindset turn 2025 into your most successful year yet? In this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Steve invites you on a transformative journey to redefine success in both your personal and professional life. He highlights the crucial difference between ideas and actionable goals, drawing on personal experiences like his "Great Life Adventure" cruise from Sydney to Fiji. Discover how lessons from the past can shape future strategies and how to build a thriving law practice that increases income and client satisfaction. Steve explains how setting professional goals is intertwined with...
2025-01-0640 min
Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusAI for Law Firms: 3 Challenges & Steps to a Future-Ready Practice – Steve RileyIs your law practice ready to embrace the future with artificial intelligence, or will it be left behind? On this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, join Steve as he tackles the pressing challenges and remarkable opportunities AI presents in the legal field. We'll navigate the complexities of integrating AI, ensuring it aligns with your professional values and ethical standards. Discover how AI can transform your practice by increasing efficiency and reducing costs, ultimately allowing you to serve your clients better and secure a competitive edge in a rapidly evolving industry. Steve draws inspiration from...
2024-11-1151 min
Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusA Monk & Lawyer Conversation: Mindset & Wellness Insights with Brother CurtisWhat if shifting from a constant state of doing to one of being could transform your loneliness into deeper connections? On this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Steve welcomes Brother Curtis to challenge the notion that leaders in helping professions have it all figured out and dive into the necessity of seeking help. We share Brother Curtis's profound insights on embracing joy and gratitude, moving beyond marketing's empty promises, and finding genuine fulfillment by reconciling internal rules of love and belonging ingrained since childhood. Steve and Brother Curtis also explore the shadow side of...
2024-10-1459 min
Great Practice. Great Life. by Atticus10 Growth Strategies for Law Firms from 100 Experts with Valerie PetersonJoin us in celebrating a significant milestone as we reflect on our journey to the 100th episode of Great Practice, Great Life. This special episode brings insights from conversations with brilliant minds over the past episodes. Steve Riley and guest Valerie Peterson unpack ten crucial growth strategies that have shaped their professional and personal journeys. Kevin Snyder, Jennifer Felten, and Fred Felten share their favorite episodes and the podcast's impact on them, with Fred highlighting episode 53 as his personal favorite. Drawing inspiration from remarkable figures like Steve Jobs and Winston Churchill, we explore how adversity...
2024-10-071h 17
Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusDo Happy Lawyers Make More Money? with Kevin SnyderOn this episode of Great Practice Great Life, Kevin Snyder, a respected attorney and member of the California Bar, joins Steve to reveal the vital interplay between happiness and professional achievement. Amid his candid reflections, Kevin shares his battle with clinical depression and how it led to the creation of his Happiness Advantage Scorecard. Through this conversation, we unpack the significance of mental well-being and its impact on a thriving legal career and a fulfilled life. Steve and Kevin redefine happiness and success, drawing from Kevin's transformative practices like the Miracle Morning routine and his...
2024-09-301h 09
Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusMax Lugavere on Brain Health: Path to Success for Lawyers & LifeWhen Steve's mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer's, it changed the course of his life, pushing him to explore the connections between our diet, lifestyle, and brain health. In this deeply personal episode of Great Practice, Great Life, journalist and documentary filmmaker Max Lugavere joins Steve. Max's own journey led him from television journalism to becoming a powerful voice in health advocacy. They discuss the rise of modern health issues like obesity, glucose dysregulation, and neurodegenerative conditions, emphasizing the critical importance of nutritional choices and early prevention strategies. Max offers an inside look at his documentary "...
2024-09-2357 min
Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusLaw Firm Hiring Shortcut: Smart Tips for Busy Attorneys – Rose HutchinsonWhat if you could streamline your law firm's hiring process and attract top-tier talent effortlessly? On this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Steve sits down with Rose Hutchinson, the director of Build My Great Team at Atticus Incorporated, to uncover the secrets of building a remarkable law firm team. Rose brings her wealth of knowledge to the table, providing strategies for attracting exceptional team members and navigating the current recruitment challenges. We explore the critical impact of timing on the hiring process and how flexibility in experience and salary expectations can be a game-changer in securing...
2024-09-1634 min
Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusLawyer Anxiety & Procrastination: Get Unstuck & Decide Better – Steve RileyWhat if you could break free from cognitive overload and make razor-sharp decisions in no time? On this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Steve guides you through the revolutionary Fast Focus Process, a six-step method that promises to unclog your mental traffic jams. Through relatable personal anecdotes and actionable examples, we'll pinpoint the decisions that cause your mind to stall and provide you with practical strategies to tackle them head-on. This episode is all about enhancing your decision-making prowess to build a better practice and a more fulfilling life. Using the metaphor of a...
2024-09-0937 min
Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusIncrease Law Firm Value: 5 Key Strategies with Ed AlexanderHow can adopting an "owner mindset" transform your law firm into a sustainable and saleable business? On this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Steve sits down for an insightful conversation with Ed Alexander, an accomplished attorney and inventor, as he shares his dual expertise in running a successful legal practice and brokering law firms. Ed's unique journey from systems engineer to lawyer and community advocate provides a rich backdrop for discussing the nuances of building a law firm that not only thrives but also holds significant market value. Throughout the episode, Ed emphasizes the...
2024-08-261h 00
Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusLaw Firm Workplace Challenges: Communication & Expectations with Lori PulvermacherEffective communication is the backbone of any successful legal practice. On this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, we tackle some of the most pressing issues that can impact team dynamics and performance. Steve brings in expert practice advisor Lori Pulvermacher to share her insights on managing difficult conversations, reducing conflict, and maintaining high standards within a law firm. From addressing tardiness and quality control to navigating the sensitive topic of workplace attire, we explore practical strategies to create a positive and collaborative work environment while ensuring top-notch client service. We also discuss the complexities...
2024-08-1252 min
Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusAI in Law Firms: Embrace Curiosity for Innovation with Carla JohnsonCan curiosity and creativity be your strongest allies in the age of AI? On this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Steve sits down with innovation expert Carla Johnson to uncover how embracing change can transform your legal practice our life. Carla shares her insights on nurturing an agile mindset and how viewing AI as a collaborative tool rather than a threat can lead to remarkable efficiency and enrichment in your daily routine. From the long-standing presence of AI to recent breakthroughs like ChatGPT, we discuss the necessity for law firms to adopt a proactive...
2024-08-051h 07
Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusClient-Centric Law Firm Culture: Practical Tips with Daniel StrunaTransform your law firm's client experience and watch your success soar! On this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, we unpack the secrets to creating a client-centric law firm with expert insights from Steve's good friend and top practice advisor, Daniel Struna. You'll discover the importance of trust and cultural alignment within your team and how valuing your team members can lead to genuine care and empathy for clients. We also share practical tips and the three critical C's—Communication, Clarity, and Consistency—essential for this transformation. Plus, we introduce a powerful, actionable question you can implement imme...
2024-07-221h 00
Great Practice. Great Life. by Atticus4 Levels of Team Empowerment in Law Firms with Patti PazEmpowering and growing your team is a cornerstone of building a successful law practice, yet many attorneys overlook it. On this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, we explore how to transition from delegating tasks to enabling your team members to make strategic decisions and think critically. Steve welcomes Patti Paz, a seasoned paralegal and team leader, who shares her expertise on the four stages of empowerment from the Atticus curriculum. Patti provides actionable steps to enhance your team's effectiveness and confidence. We also discuss Patti's journey from a paralegal in an estate planning practice...
2024-07-1543 min
Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusHow Trial Lawyers Win Juries & Balance Family Life – Sean LyonsSean Lyons, one of Texas's top trial attorneys, joins Steve to share his remarkable path into law, shaped by his father's legacy as a civil rights activist. On this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Sean opens up about his crusade against bullies and large corporations, highlighting the emotional and financial balancing act of running a legal practice. His insights into case selection and professional discipline offer lessons for avoiding burnout and staying true to one's passion for justice. Steve and Sean's conversation takes a deeper dive into the specialized nature of Sean's practice. They...
2024-07-011h 01
Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusLawyer Billable Time: Is Exercise Worth It? Insights with Jonathan WhiteWhen Jonathan White, a Massachusetts-based estate planning attorney and former college hockey player, felt the pressure of his expanding practice and the pandemic's toll on his well-being, he returned to a familiar ally: exercise. On this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Steve and Jonathan's conversation dives into Jonathan's path from grappling with the anxiety of hiring his first employee to re-embracing fitness routines that brought balance back into his life. We unearth the moments where he chose health over more billable hours, demonstrating that prioritizing personal well-being is necessary for sustained professional success. Steve...
2024-06-241h 03
Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusPlaintiff Law Firm Growth: Robert Hoover's Great Practice Great Life JourneyWhat does changing from an unfocused college student into a successful trial lawyer specializing in traumatic brain injury cases take? On this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Steve explores Robert Hoover's remarkable story, shaped by family influences and early experiences with prominent trial lawyers. Bob shares the pivotal moments that made him a leading figure in his field, illustrating the importance of intentionality in balancing professional and personal growth. Bob's career path wasn't always smooth. Bob faced numerous obstacles, from a return to his family firm in 1999 to professional and personal struggles in Aspen...
2024-06-1755 min
Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusLaw Firm Content Marketing: Strategies That Work with Robert RoseCan lawyers turn their storytelling skills into a marketing powerhouse without feeling sales-y? In today's episode of Great Practice, Great Life, we reveal the secrets of content marketing tailored for small and solo law firms with Robert Rose, a global authority on content marketing. Join us as Robert and Steve Riley share how legal professionals can attract clients through engaging, valuable content that builds trust and bypasses the discomfort of traditional sales tactics. We explore the principles of content marketing and its role in professions where trust is paramount. Learn how educational, inspiring, and entertaining...
2024-06-1035 min
Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusLaw Firm Leadership: Empathetic Lessons from Judge Carlos Martinez – Great Practice Great LifeImagine spearheading a legal team facing daunting challenges with the scales of justice and human empathy in your hands. On this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, the Honorable Carlos Martinez, Chief Public Defender of Miami-Dade County, joins Steve to share his day-to-day. His path from Cuban immigrant to an influential figure in the Florida justice system exemplifies leadership acumen, a commitment to public service, and an empathy-driven approach to legal defense. Carlos explains the complexities of managing a large team of attorneys, handling cases ranging from misdemeanors to juvenile delinquency, all while nurturing a...
2024-05-201h 09
Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusLaw Firm Leadership Legacy: Inspirational & Resilient with Jake ThompsonOn this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Jake Thompson reveals the skills required to navigate the leap from individual contributor to a leader who inspires. Steve and Jake's discussion starts with this shift's realities, much like Michael Jordan's venture into baseball. They address the downsides of promoting top performers without proper leadership training. Jake, a celebrated motivational speaker and author within the Atticus community, shares his wisdom and introduces his book, "Lead Better Now," offering listeners strategies to uplift team culture, enhance communication, and make an impactful difference in their new leadership roles. Leading...
2024-05-1341 min
Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusBuild a Better Law Firm Team: Save Time & Money with Daniel StrunaScaling a law firm is no small feat, and it's during the leap from a handful of employees to a full-fledged team where the true test lies. On this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, guest host Daniel Struna exposes what it takes to build a standout law practice team as he interviews Steve. We discuss transitioning from hiring out of necessity to selecting individuals who share your firm's vision and ambition. Steve shares how his own experiences with misalignment led to a shift in his hiring philosophy and takes you through the trenches of leadership, where...
2024-05-061h 06
Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusValue-Driven Law Practice: Invest in Yourself for Success – Aaron RothertHave you ever wondered where life's road is leading you, especially when it seems like you're always in the fast lane to professional success but somehow missing the exits to personal happiness? On this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, guest Aaron Rothert takes over hosting duties to interview Steve as we explore the influence of "My Great Decade" thinking on careers and personal lives. They uncover the often-overlooked misalignments between what we do daily and our core values, using the lens of our children's growth as a reminder of time's relentless march. Steve shares...
2024-04-2944 min
Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusLaw Firm Growth: Earn More by Working Less with Mark PowersImagine stepping out of your office on a Friday and not looking back until Monday, all while your law practice thrives more than ever. That's not just a daydream but a reality Mark Powers and Steve are excited to share. On this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Mark, the founder of Atticus, joins Steve in unwrapping a counterintuitive approach—positive constraints. It's about creating firm boundaries that boost your bank balance and replenish your zest for life. We tackle managing workloads, securing weekends off, and aiming for a staggering 175 days of freedom every year, changing grinding da...
2024-04-0154 min
Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusShould You Build Your Law Firm to Sell? Exit Strategy with Denise CullenHave you ever considered what it takes to construct a law firm that can thrive without you? On this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Denise Cullen of the Atticus team joins Steve to flip the script and extract his thoughts on creating a legal practice designed for a future sale. We dive into the nuances of why a firm's independence attracts potential buyers and how cultivating a life beyond the office walls can elevate your firm's appeal. Throughout the conversation, we tackle the emotional journey of succession planning, confronting the challenges and triumphs of...
2024-03-2543 min
Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusLawyer Growth Secrets Steve Keeps Quiet: Victor Medina & Mark Metzger RevealHave you ever been caught in the attorney's paradox, where success in the courtroom equals a life sentence of burnout? On this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Victor Medina and Mark Metzger join Steve to dissect the relentless grind that traps so many in the legal profession and the power of a shift in perspective. They lay bare the tenets of personal happiness and professional success, weaving through stories of gratitude, the strength found in relationships, and the question of "why" that makes any "how" seem inconsequential. Navigating the legal labyrinth is about understanding...
2024-03-1859 min
Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusHigh Performance Law Firm Growth: Secrets from Valerie PetersonHave you ever wondered if the secret to professional triumph in law could lie in your next vacation? That's Steve's conversation with Atticus CEO and the guest host of this episode, Valerie Peterson, as they turn the tables on Great Practice, Great Life. Steve and Valerie dive into the paradox at the heart of the legal profession: the belief that success is the product of relentless work, often at the expense of personal well-being. Together, they navigate a series of revelations about how peak performance—fueled by rest, strategic energy management, and a keen focus on cognitive he...
2024-03-1137 min
Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusLaw Firm Succession Planning & Success Strategies with Mark PowersHave you set your sights on a future where your law firm thrives beyond your tenure? On this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Mark Powers, the founder and president of Atticus, Inc., joins Steve for a conversation on succession planning for lawyers. We dissect the traditional succession model, and Mark shares how to transform a practice into a valuable, enduring asset. This episode isn't just about passing the torch. It's a strategic guide to cultivating a law firm that sustains profitability and outlasts its founders. As we explore the nuanced process of preparing your...
2024-03-0459 min
Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusBest Practice Management Software for Law Firms: 8 Factors with Daniel Miller – Part 2On this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Steve continues his discussion with attorney Daniel Miller, exploring the nitty-gritty of practice management software for law firms. We're tackling how software can transform your legal practice by tracking every file's journey from inception to completion, providing insights into staff performance, and pinpointing any bottlenecks in your workflows. Discover the art of task management through client workflows and how tools like Kanban boards can revolutionize your approach to client service, leading to enhanced productivity and a standout client experience. Daniel shares his expert strategies, helping you fine-tune...
2024-02-2630 min
Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusGreat Habits for a Great Life: Lawyer Success with Valerie PetersonOn this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, crack the code to a richer personal and professional life as Steve teams up with Valerie Peterson, CEO of Atticus, to explore the impact of the "GREAT" habit. Developed over two decades and shared in workshops, this simple yet profound practice can enhance presence, improve relationships, and spur growth. With wit and wisdom, we delve into how this habit can revolutionize your daily interactions and set you on a path toward a Great Practice and Great Life. We break down the acronym GREAT—Gratitude, Respect, Enamored, Appreciate, an...
2024-02-1240 min
Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusGet More Clients for Your Law Firm: Fast, Low-Cost Strategies – Denise CullenHave you ever wondered why some law firms thrive on the word-of-mouth wave while others barely make a splash? Marketing expert Denise Cullen and Steve unravel creating a potent client experience that doesn't end with a resolved case but flows into generating a pipeline of referrals. With the precision of a seasoned lawyer, they dissect strategies to train your team in the art of the referral "ask," transforming every satisfied client into a beacon for new business without pushy sales tactics. Turning a law firm into a hive of professional connections is no small feat...
2024-02-0538 min
Great Practice. Great Life. by Atticus#1 Skill to Grow Your Law Firm with Victor Medina"Elevate your legal practice to unparalleled success with sales skills, as Victor Medina helps you craft a memorable client experience. On this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, discover how to script interactions tactically to lead clients right to your door, ready to engage your services. This episode isn't just about growing a law firm; it's about transforming the attorney-client dynamic into a legacy of success and appreciation. Tear down the barriers of doubt and ethical concerns that have long prevented lawyers from fully embracing their inherent persuasive talents. Walk through Steve's personal transition from...
2024-01-221h 01Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusLaw Firm Growth Strategies When You're Stuck with Aaron RothertCan you excel in your legal career while leading a rich personal life? That's the puzzle Aaron Rothert and Steve are piecing together for attorneys seeking that elusive balance. On this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, join Aaron and Steve as they navigate beyond the courtroom dramas and into managing teams, overseeing finances, and growing a successful practice. A seasoned practice advisor, Aaron dispenses wisdom on employing Abraham Maslow's hierarchy of needs as a personal and professional growth tool. He also shares a triad of growth strategies essential to achieving a seamless blend of career success...
2023-12-2550 minGreat Practice. Great Life. by AtticusGreat Practice Great Life Journey: Deidre Von Rock – Part 2In the second part of a two-part series, Steve continues his conversation with Deidre Von Rock, a lawyer whose resilience, tenacity, and drive have seen her through personal struggles and professional triumphs. On this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Steve delves deeper into Deidre's journey, from battling cancer and divorce to building a successful law practice. She opens up about the power of community support during her cancer journey and reflects on her experience with the disease. Turning to her professional life, Deidre explains what she's learned about online marketing, the value of SEO...
2023-12-1843 minGreat Practice. Great Life. by AtticusHow to Become a Judge: Chief Judge Mark W. Klingensmith's JourneyHave you ever wondered how it feels to wear a judge's robes and make decisions that impact lives? Or pondered the challenges faced by an appellate judge in aligning their decisions with the body of law without causing unintended consequences? On today's episode of Great Practice, Great Life, join Steve as he sits down for a riveting conversation with Chief Judge Mark W. Klingensmith, Chief Appellate Judge of the Sixth District Court of Appeal in Florida, and explore his fascinating career transition from a trial lawyer to a respected judge. Step into Chief Judge Klingensmith's...
2023-12-0437 minGreat Practice. Great Life. by AtticusLaw Firm Leadership: Boost Your Impact with Glenn GutekHave you ever considered what it takes to be a leader in a highly demanding field like law? On this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, join Steve as he sits down with Glenn Gutek, a seasoned practice advisor with a rich background in psychology, philosophy, and comedy, no less! We explore his unique journey from pastor to leadership guru while also exploring why stand-up comedy and improv turned out to be invaluable skills in his toolbox. It's a conversation that's as entertaining as it is insightful. We unveil the four pillars of leadership: managing...
2023-11-2757 minGreat Practice. Great Life. by AtticusIncrease Law Firm Profits: 5 Bottom Line Strategies with Jeannette ByrdYou're about to get a front-row seat to a conversation that could drastically improve your practice's bottom line. Join Steve as he chats with Jeannette Byrd from Byrd & Associates, leveraging her experience as a CPA and unique insights from family ties to the legal profession. Together, we explore the nooks and crannies of efficient cash flow management and strategic thinking that can revamp your financial strategy. We dig deep into managing trust accounts and why accurate tracking is necessary to maintain ethical compliance. Jeannette and Steve unpack the three-way reconciliation process. This tool could save...
2023-11-2038 minGreat Practice. Great Life. by AtticusCan AI Take Over Judging? Chief Judge Mark W. Klingensmith on the FutureImagine a courtroom where artificial intelligence (AI) replaces human judges and handles the process of dispute resolution. Is it a far-fetched fantasy or a viable inevitability? Join Steve as he invites Florida's Chief Judge Mark Klingensmith to discuss this topic. His insights on how AI is set to change the legal industry, from the tasks of paralegals to the complex role of judges, are both fascinating and essential for understanding the future of law. As we navigate the intricate world of AI, we explore its potential role in contract analysis, its ability to identify risky...
2023-11-0654 minGreat Practice. Great Life. by AtticusPodcasting for Lawyers: Transform Your Life & Practice – Danny OzmentPicture this - you're a lawyer, seasoned in your craft, and you stumble upon a platform that not only showcases your expertise but also builds trust and relationships with potential clients. Tempting, isn't it? Well, that platform could be a podcast! On this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, join us as Steve chats with Danny Ozment from Emerald City Productions, who gives us the lowdown on why lawyers and other professionals alike should seriously consider launching their own podcast. We delve into the stories of lawyers who have already taken the plunge - like...
2023-10-3053 minGreat Practice. Great Life. by AtticusFirst Hire Challenges in Law Firms: Tips with Victor Medina & Jonathan WhiteIn this episode, Steve hands the reins over to Victor Medina who sits down with Jonathan White. Creating a thriving law practice can be a daunting task, especially when faced with the challenge of making that first hire. Jonathan White knows this all too well. We journey through the struggles, triumphs, and lessons Jonathan experienced while building his practice. Our conversation delves deep into the importance of strong leadership, a positive culture, and the ability to turn fears into stepping stones. Jonathan shares his intriguing journey from working at the Attorney General's Office right out...
2023-10-091h 06Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusThe Star Lawyer to the Stars with Ed KainenPersonal triumphs and unexpected transformations - that's the essence of Ed Kainen's remarkable journey as one of Hollywood's top family law attorneys. From his humble beginnings as a criminal prosecutor in Florida to the glitz and glamor of Las Vegas, Ed's evolution is nothing short of inspiring. He provides insightful reflections about his law practice's evolution, his unique approach to referral marketing, and his tight grip on managing his practice, finances, and time. This episode of Great Practice, Great Life unravels Ed's encounter with a judge, from whom he learned some life-altering lessons. The influence...
2023-09-2558 minGreat Practice. Great Life. by AtticusLawyer Mindset: Intentional Endings & Purposeful Beginnings – Rory Clark Part 2Join Steve as he continues his discussion with attorney Rory Clark, a seasoned professional who knows a thing or two about resilience and strategic growth. In this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Steve and Rory touch on a fascinating paradox of growth through elimination and subtraction, exploring how Rory has strategically removed certain aspects of his life and practice to enable expansion. Rory shares how he's exercised courage and navigated false hope, managing to execute necessary endings and pivot towards a more holistic business model. His unique approach to time management - saying no to certain...
2023-09-1847 minGreat Practice. Great Life. by AtticusLawyer Mindset: Intentional Endings & Purposeful Beginnings – Rory ClarkImagine if letting go of false hopes could unfreeze your life and bring about incredible transformation. That's exactly what Rory Clark did. Through courageously ending parts of his life that were no longer serving him, Rory intentionally laid the foundation for purposeful new beginnings. He burnt it all down to build something remarkable from the ashes. His bold choices have reshaped his law practice and his personal life in ways that bring him great joy. Rory's journey from being a large firm refugee to a successful elder law attorney is a testament to the power...
2023-09-1136 minGreat Practice. Great Life. by AtticusFast Track Law Firm Growth with a Think Day: Sam PriceAre you ready to add some spice to your legal practice? On this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, join Steve as he interviews Sam Price, a seasoned estate planning, trust, and probate lawyer, as he unfolds a treasure trove of experiences ranging from surviving natural disasters to innovative staff development strategies. As a veteran of the law field with a unique backstory, Sam shares practical tips for building a thriving legal practice that may help you reframe your perspective on your career. Digging into his past, we explore Sam's intriguing transition from a large...
2023-09-0456 minGreat Practice. Great Life. by AtticusGreat Life Legacy: Build Your Lifetime Statement with Teresa MorganFrom growing up in a blue-collar neighborhood in Tampa, Florida, to becoming a successful attorney and entrepreneur, Teresa Morgan's journey is a testament to what vision and determination can achieve. Steve recently had the pleasure of interviewing Teresa. He highlights her transition from a soap opera diva dream to an esteemed lawyer, demonstrating that nothing is out of reach if you dare to dream and persevere. Steve explores Teresa's decision to venture into the estate planning niche, which came with its share of risks. She shares her insights on time management, continuous learning, and the...
2023-08-281h 05Great Practice. Great Life. by Atticus10 Lessons for New Lawyers: What I Wish I Knew Starting My Practice – Tim CaldwelSteve's good friend, Tim Caldwell, joins him on a journey from Olympic slopes to rural courtrooms - a living testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and lifelong learning. As a successful lawyer who once competed in the Olympics, Tim's extraordinary story draws a striking parallel between the thrill of sport and the pursuit of legal success. Steve and Tim's conversation dives headfirst into the riveting world of legal practice, where Tim discovered that specialization, fixed pricing, and continuous skill enhancement became the pillars of his thriving practice. He also stressed the importance of patience, self-care, and...
2023-08-211h 01Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusBoost Law Firm Revenue with Client Care: Vinnie Bonazzoli StrategiesUnlock the secrets of building a thriving law practice with Steve's latest guest, Vinnie Bonazzoli, a veteran lawyer coach with over two decades of experience. In this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Vinnie's insights will shatter every preconceived notion you've ever had about your legal practice, empowering you to see growth opportunities where you never thought possible. He explains how to create a steady income stream from activities you're already engaged in but aren't compensated for. We don't stop there. Vinnie unravels the intricacies of recognizing the value of lawyers' services, an aspect many...
2023-08-141h 05Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusLaw Firm Coaching Lessons with Mark WightAs a dear friend and accomplished attorney, Mark Wight has always astounded Steve with his strength and tenacity. Despite operating in a smaller community of Meridian, Idaho, Mark's practice has flourished against the odds, transcending the typical limitations of a competitive legal market. Mark's journey is a testament to the power of maintaining a growth mindset, and his ability to appreciate progress, no matter how seemingly insignificant, is genuinely inspirational. In this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Steve and Mark navigate the fascinating concepts illuminated in Carol Dweck's book, where the growth mindset goes...
2023-07-3156 minGreat Practice. Great Life. by AtticusSpeak Powerfully as a Lawyer: How to Ask for More & Get It – Dia Bondi Part 2How often do you truly ask for what you want? How often do you advocate for yourself in your professional life? Join Steve on a transformation journey as he sits down with Dia Bondi, a fearless communicator and expert in making meaningful and powerful asks. From her unique experiences in auctioneering to her ongoing work in closing the gender gap in the legal world, Dia's wisdom will surely leave you empowered and inspired. Have you ever wondered how to navigate the fine line between your professional obligations and your personal aspirations? On this episode of...
2023-07-2432 minGreat Practice. Great Life. by AtticusSpeak Powerfully as a Lawyer: How to Ask for More & Get It – Dia BondiPrepare to supercharge your communication skills with Dia Bondi, the mastermind behind Dia Bondi Communications, who has empowered countless leaders to transform their communication abilities. In Steve's interview with Dia, she shares her unique methodology for developing a potent leadership voice, which promises to revolutionize how you negotiate, communicate, and make your mark - regardless of your career stage or organizational position. We delve into the essence of Dia's transformative approach, exploring the three critical components of effective communication: presence, control, and impact. We guide you through the platform map, a powerful tool designed to...
2023-07-1734 minGreat Practice. Great Life. by AtticusFrom Cancer to Great Life: Lawyer's Journey with James JosephAs Steve sat down with James Joseph, a globally acclaimed matrimonial attorney, his personal journey of battling cancer while building a successful law practice will leave you deeply inspired. James' remarkable courage, resilience, and relentless pursuit of growth, even during a year-long sabbatical for recovery, is a testament to his indomitable spirit. His exploration of his own strengths and weaknesses, coupled with his astute understanding of time management, resulted in the rise of a mission-focused firm dedicated to helping individuals cope with the complexities of divorce. James' story unravels the fascinating process of creating a...
2023-07-1050 minGreat Practice. Great Life. by AtticusYour Teammates Determine Your Law Firm Success with Jake ThompsonWhat if the relationships you have today are the compass guiding your future success? In a riveting conversation with Jake Thompson, author of "Compete Every Day," Steve uncovers how the right teammates can shape your trajectory, both personally and professionally. In this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Jake shares his unique approach to self-competition, cultivating resilience, and measuring success. His powerful strategies and insights are gripping, especially his advice on creating a daily leaderboard and using competition as a learning tool. Steve and Jake take a deep look at why it's crucial to surround...
2023-07-0356 minGreat Practice. Great Life. by AtticusMy Great Life Adventure with Kimberly LeeWhen hardworking estate and trust attorney Kimberly Lee took a risky 30-day trip to South Africa in January, it was the busiest time of the year for her practice. But this incredible adventure taught her the power of taking time off and the courage to embrace Not Yet Projects. In this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Kimberly opens up about her journey, how she prepared for the trip, and how her parents played a significant role in her experience. She also shares the valuable lessons she learned and why taking time off is so important.
2023-06-2639 minGreat Practice. Great Life. by Atticus10 Things I Learned as a CEO That I Wish I'd Known as a Lawyer with Valerie Peterson: Part 2Have you ever felt like you're not quite connecting with your clients, team members, or even colleagues in the legal field? In this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Steve continues his conversation with Valerie Peterson, where they discuss the vital role that relationships and relationship skills play in growing your law practice. They dive into the importance of fostering connections with your community, referral sources, and enthusiastic team members to create a fantastic culture within your practice. Steve and Valerie's conversation takes an introspective turn as they explore the emotional growth of lawyers and how it...
2023-06-1931 minGreat Practice. Great Life. by AtticusWell, What Did You Expect? With Glenn FinchIs your relationship feeling the strain of unmet expectations and poor communication? Don't worry. You're not alone. Join Steve as he chats with Glenn Finch, a communication expert with over 20 years of experience teaching communication skills to couples in the military and around the world. Together, they explore the importance of strong communication skills for building resilient relationships, especially amidst the stress of combat and deployments. Glenn shares his expertise in navigating unspoken expectations in relationships and reveals the four danger signs of communication that can lead to a crash: invalidation, escalation, withdrawal, and defensiveness. But fear...
2023-06-0547 minGreat Practice. Great Life. by AtticusMarketing for Lawyers: Don't Do What Everyone Else Is Doing – Robert RoseLawyers like to stick with what they think works in their practices--even if they could be doing much better by making small changes. This includes how they approach marketing. But if it's done right, changing your marketing strategy can completely change how your practice attains--and retains--revenue. Content marketing is a type of marketing that can lead to referrals and more reliable income streams. When done with consistency and providing rarely given answers, you can become the go-to practice in your field. In this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, author and marketing and communications strategist...
2023-05-2955 minGreat Practice. Great Life. by AtticusCrushing the 175-Day Challenge: Lawyer Growth with Josh DorceyHow would your life change if you could take three months of the year off? Where would you go? Who would you spend time with? The secret to taking significant time off every year is the team you hire to support you. With the right team in place, what sounds impossible to pull off becomes entirely possible. But the catch is that you have to trust them and give them the freedom to run the business well while you take an extended break to recharge. In this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, founder and...
2023-05-2256 minGreat Practice. Great Life. by AtticusLaw Firm Growth: Put the Wind at Your Back with Shawn McNalisDeveloped just after World War I, the military developed DISC profiles to identify which personality types would return from war shell-shocked versus those who didn't seem to be affected much. They created a series of questions to develop personality profiles, and by the 1960s, corporate America seized on this idea. Today, DISC profiles are used in all sorts of work environments. In particular, a DISC profile can be a powerful tool for lawyers because they can use it to understand their teams and clients. It creates an opportunity to communicate more effectively in professional and personal relationships...
2023-05-151h 01Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusA Great Practice Great Life Transformation with John MurphyRebooting your law career can feel like an impossible mountain to climb--especially if you've already established yourself in your community. But it's probably time to make a significant change if your practice isn't giving you the joy or freedom you believed it would or should. If you're an older attorney, making the shift may not make sense. But if you don't want the latter years of your career to look like the beginning years did, it's time to switch things up and stop believing the narrative that it's too late to change how your career and life...
2023-05-0859 minGreat Practice. Great Life. by AtticusThe Courage of Not Yet with Kimberly LeeIt's easy for attorneys to get stuck in the work grind. They often have difficulty taking time off for themselves, and when they do, they think about work. They live and breathe their practices. None of us are designed to work seven days a week. Taking time off can increase your productivity and creativity and make you a more interesting person to talk to. Unfortunately, when you're stuck in a cycle of living to work, it can feel impossible to break free and begin investing more time in learning to do things you enjoy outside of the...
2023-05-0148 minGreat Practice. Great Life. by AtticusParenting, Partnering, Practicing: Intentionality with Cary MossMany people don't want to hear that you can't have it all: a thriving law practice, a great family life, time with friends, and more. The truth is that you'll have to sacrifice in one area of your life to give more to another area. Life has seasons, and it's up to you to decide which sector deserves more attention in those seasons. It's no secret that learning to balance a family with a successful law practice requires boundaries. But when you're working with your mom and your husband as your law partners, is that even possible?
2023-04-2453 minGreat Practice. Great Life. by AtticusFrom Tragedy to Team Leadership Success: Marie Tricarico's JourneyTeam leaders and operations directors can be invaluable to law firms, and they can take your practice from zero to hero. With the proper tools and training, they can reduce the tasks on an attorney's plate and keep the office running smoothly. When a lawyer develops a good working relationship with their team lead, they can trust that the work is still getting done while they're occupied with other tasks in the firm or out of the office. Becoming a team leader or director of operations for a law firm isn't always a linear path. Instead, a...
2023-04-1749 minGreat Practice. Great Life. by AtticusNiching Your Law Practice: Lessons from John TuckerFinding a niche for your law practice can be lucrative for your firm. But law schools don't focus on many topics that could transform into these specialized law subjects. Instead, it may be up to you to self-educate on what you find yourself drawn to. How do you decide on a niche? The first place to start is figuring out where your interests lie. Did you want to be a doctor in high school but couldn't make the grades? Maybe medical malpractice is an area of study for you. If the Constitution and history are compelling, possibly...
2023-04-101h 04Great Practice. Great Life. by AtticusLaw Firm Intake: Using Non-Lawyers for Initial Meetings with Elizabeth ClarkNon-lawyers who conduct initial meetings with prospective clients can be a secret weapon for law firms. They save the attorneys time, money, and hassle. And they don't give out legal advice for free. Empowering team members to take over initial meetings with prospects is something many lawyers need help embracing. However, transitioning a trusted team member into someone who can take initial meetings off your plate can be a game-changer for a busy firm. With training and knowledge, they can determine whether or not new prospects will be a good fit as a client, what their needs...
2023-03-2748 minGreat Practice. Great Life. by AtticusLaw Firm Team Leader: What It Is and When You Need One – Patti PazHaving a trustworthy team around you and your business is invaluable. If you've grown your practice, you probably have an office manager on staff who handles putting out the fires around your firm. But a great office manager may also be someone you can transform into a team leader. A team leader is a proactive member of your team who can be a part of solving problems rather than putting out fires in a reactive way. Instead of managing tasks, they lead people, which is often more rewarding than managing a task list. In this...
2023-03-2055 minGreat Practice. Great Life. by AtticusIt's All Your Fault with Megan Hunter - Part 2Dealing with high-conflict individuals is part and parcel of the legal world. Having the skills to deal with them effectively without escalating the conflict can be invaluable. Practice is the best way to get experience managing conversations with high-conflict people. But how do you get that practice when your brain's response moves into fight or flight? Getting the proper training is where it all begins. In this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Megan Hunter, co-founder of the High Conflict Institute, returns to her conversation with Steve on dealing with high-conflict people in your life...
2023-03-1339 minGreat Practice. Great Life. by AtticusIt's All Your Fault with Megan Hunter - Part 1We've all met them, and most of us have worked with one of them. It's not uncommon to quit a job because of them. Who are these people who are so difficult to work with that we'd rather quit a job we otherwise like than deal with them? They're high-conflict people, and they can be impossible to please. They tend to point the finger at others for their problems, and those who have to deal with them regularly are often left exhausted by the mental gymnastics they perform to try to keep this person happy. ...
2023-03-0635 minGreat Practice. Great Life. by AtticusBig Fish in a Little Pond: How to Niche Your Law Practice – Ronnie Morton Part 2When attorneys embark on their legal careers, they typically struggle to identify a specific area of expertise where they can excel. Instead, they accept any available work that comes their way, even if it means settling for more minor cases because they have financial obligations such as bills and student loans to pay. Consequently, they end up fighting for scraps. But what if you could discover the winning strategy to transform into a big fish in a small pond? By becoming the go-to person in your niche, your name will be the one that comes to mind...
2023-02-2743 minGreat Practice. Great Life. by AtticusBig Fish in a Little Pond: How to Niche Your Law Practice – Ronnie Morton Part 1When most attorneys begin their law careers, they fail to find a specialty where they can thrive. Instead, they take on any work thrown their way, which sometimes equates to scraps, because they have bills and student loans to pay. The thought process is some income is better than no income. They're small fish in a big pond. What if you could find the formula to become the big fish in a small pond? When someone thinks of your niche, you would be the first name to come to mind. And especially in a small town, you...
2023-02-2033 minGreat Practice. Great Life. by AtticusGrow Your Law Firm 6x: Secrets with Marc Whitehead - Part 2In the legal world, most attorneys hyper-focus on their particular area. Often, they're afraid to hire more staff because more staff means more money spent. What they fail to recognize, though, is that a carefully curated team can increase the quality and revenue of their practices multiple times. It seems counterintuitive that hiring more people could lead to more revenue, yet hiring the right team members can do exactly that. They can remove the tasks from your plate that you don't want to focus on or simply no longer have the time for. Along with having your...
2023-02-0639 minGreat Practice. Great Life. by AtticusNon-Lawyer Initial Meetings: Is It Possible in Law Firms? with Patti PazIt can be hard to let go of control--especially as an attorney running your own law firm. One advantage of relinquishing it can be increased profitability and taking back your time to accomplish more important tasks. Can non-lawyers successfully implement the initial meeting process with prospective clients? Steve believes they can. Attorneys often become bogged down in the details--especially in initial meetings--and spend valuable time responding to emails and offering free legal advice. Steve's guest on this episode of Great Practice, Great Life is Patti Paz. Patti is an adjunct practice advisor, paralegal, and team...
2023-01-1654 minGreat Practice. Great Life. by AtticusProtect Your Law Firm from Inflation: Strategies with Glenn FinchIn a booming economy, running a successful law practice can feel effortless. The engine chugs along--often with only minor supervision. But when the economy changes and inflation comes into play, the practice model must also evolve. This episode of Great Practice, Great Life explores how to maintain a well-oiled machine when attorneys and practice employees alike are struggling to overcome increasing expenses and stagnant wages amidst inflation. Glenn Finch is a longtime friend of Steve's and a partner at Atticus. Married for 20 years with four children and five grandchildren, Glenn is also a Colonel in...
2023-01-0946 min