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BE THAT LAWYER
Steve Fretzin
567 episodes
1 day ago
BE THAT LAWYER is for attorneys who want more freedom, enjoyment and most importantly, control in their career. Topics will include business development, marketing, branding, technology, and law firm growth. The goal is to educate, entertain and share best practices related to these topics, so that you, the listener can get real value. This is primarily an interview show with great guests (attorneys and legal marketing professionals), sharing stories and analogies, as well as engaging in personal discussions that will keep you entertained and coming back week after week.
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Marketing
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Business News,
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All content for BE THAT LAWYER is the property of Steve Fretzin and is served directly from their servers with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.
BE THAT LAWYER is for attorneys who want more freedom, enjoyment and most importantly, control in their career. Topics will include business development, marketing, branding, technology, and law firm growth. The goal is to educate, entertain and share best practices related to these topics, so that you, the listener can get real value. This is primarily an interview show with great guests (attorneys and legal marketing professionals), sharing stories and analogies, as well as engaging in personal discussions that will keep you entertained and coming back week after week.
Show more...
Marketing
Business,
News,
Business News,
Management
Episodes (20/567)
BE THAT LAWYER
Chris Earley: How Lawyers Win Attention in a Crowded Industry
In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Chris Earley discuss: Treating consistency as the real competitive edge Building trust through authenticity over achievement Matching platforms to where your audience already lives Playing the long game of value before promotion Key Takeaways: Showing up every day with content is not a tactic but the game itself. One post a day over time compounds into trust, visibility, and separation. Most lawyers will not endure the discipline, which is precisely why it works. Audiences respond more to struggle, growth, and honesty than polished wins. Sharing mistakes, personal history, and lessons humanizes the professional brand. Credibility grows faster when vulnerability comes before accomplishment. Effective content starts by knowing who you serve and where they spend their attention. B2B audiences tend to gather on LinkedIn, while B2C clients live elsewhere. Posting everywhere is fine, but focus belongs where attention already flows. Education, insight, and generosity must outweigh direct selling over time. Promotion works only after value has been delivered consistently and visibly. Your brand strengthens when service leads and asks follow. “I think the practitioner should be posting, if you really want to get serious, once a day on LinkedIn… One post. Can you do that for a year and stick with that? I’ve done that for like four or five years, and the flywheel just expands." —  Chris Earley Check out my new show, Be That Lawyer Coaches Corner, and get the strategies I use with my clients to win more business and love your career again. Ready to go from good to GOAT in your legal marketing game? Don’t miss PIMCON—where the brightest minds in professional services gather to share what really works. Lock in your spot now: https://www.pimcon.org/ Thank you to our Sponsor! Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/ Ready to grow your law practice without selling or chasing? Book your free 30-minute strategy session now—let's make this your breakout year: https://fretzin.com/ About Chris Earley: Christopher Earley is a Boston-based personal injury attorney and founder of Earley Law Group Injury Lawyers, where he has devoted nearly two decades to advocating for injury victims and standing up to powerful insurance companies. He holds a J.D. from New England Law (2004) and is admitted to practice in Massachusetts. Chris is also an accomplished author of multiple consumer guides, a legal columnist for the American Bar Association and Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly, and a frequent speaker on law firm business topics. His work has earned recognition, including multiple Massachusetts Super Lawyer honors. Beyond law, he serves his community through youth sports coaching and local partnerships, all while emphasizing clear communication, client education, and relentless advocacy. Connect with Chris Earley: Website: https://www.chrisearley.com/ Justia Lawyers: https://lawyers.justia.com/lawyer/christopher-earley-1335943 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/ChrisEarleyLaw Twitter: https://twitter.com/chrisearleylaw Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Law-Offices-of-Christopher-Earley-104980886333/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/earleylawgroupinjurylawyers/ Connect with Steve Fretzin: LinkedIn: Steve Fretzin Twitter: @stevefretzin Instagram: @fretzinsteve Facebook: Fretzin, Inc. Website: Fretzin.com Email: Steve@Fretzin.com Book: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more! YouTube: Steve Fretzin Call Steve directly at 847-602-6911 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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1 day ago
29 minutes 29 seconds

BE THAT LAWYER
Matthew Fornaro: Building a Solo Law Firm in the Age of AI
In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Matthew Fornaro discuss: Making solo practice more accessible than ever Using AI as a force multiplier for small firms Practicing ethical and intentional AI adoption Rethinking legal business models and skill sets Key Takeaways: Starting a firm no longer requires a large office, full staff, or major upfront investment. A focused LinkedIn presence paired with a simple, low-cost website can be sufficient early on. Matthew relies on AI for email triage, document review, and marketing support across his practice. These tools increasingly replace costly vendors while delivering speed, consistency, and scale. Responsible lawyers review and verify AI outputs instead of submitting them unchecked. Those who ignore AI entirely or misuse it are falling behind or facing real professional consequences. AI-driven efficiency puts pressure on traditional billable-hour structures in Big Law and beyond. Matthew emphasizes that business education is as critical as legal skills for long-term success. "In dealing with some of the attorneys I deal with who don't use AI or whatever, they're getting consistently outworked and beat by people who do use AI, particularly people who use AI correctly and responsibly." —  Matthew Fornaro Check out my new show, Be That Lawyer Coaches Corner, and get the strategies I use with my clients to win more business and love your career again. Ready to go from good to GOAT in your legal marketing game? Don’t miss PIMCON—where the brightest minds in professional services gather to share what really works. Lock in your spot now: https://www.pimcon.org/ Thank you to our Sponsor! Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/ Ready to grow your law practice without selling or chasing? Book your free 30-minute strategy session now—let's make this your breakout year: https://fretzin.com/ About Matthew Fornaro: Matthew Fornaro is a business law attorney serving South Florida since 2003. He began his career at two AmLaw 200 firms, focusing on civil litigation, before founding his own practice. His work includes complex commercial litigation, contract disputes, construction law, intellectual property, and business formation and documentation. A member of the Florida and District of Columbia Bars, Matthew also mentors new attorneys and entrepreneurs through the Kaufman Foundation’s FastTrac NewVenture Program and Florida State University’s Jim Moran Institute. As a small business owner himself, he is proud to support and represent businesses throughout his community. Connect with Matthew Fornaro:  Website: https://fornarolegal.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fornarolegal/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewfornaro/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZn4sEROz6hErV5Fb5vvOtQ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fornaro_legal/ X: https://twitter.com/FornaroLegal Additional Resources: Jeremy Baker - https://operationpalmtree.com/ Connect with Steve Fretzin: LinkedIn: Steve Fretzin Twitter: @stevefretzin Instagram: @fretzinsteve Facebook: Fretzin, Inc. Website: Fretzin.com Email: Steve@Fretzin.com Book: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more! YouTube: Steve Fretzin Call Steve directly at 847-602-6911 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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4 days ago
31 minutes 20 seconds

BE THAT LAWYER
Wes Lungwitz: The New Rules of Law Firm Marketing
In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Wes Lungwitz discuss: Adapting to change in legal marketing Strengthening the website as the foundation Optimizing for AI-driven discovery Evaluating partners and acting proactively Key Takeaways: Law firm growth now depends on adapting to AI, new search behavior, and shifting marketing dynamics. Firms that remain static risk losing visibility as discovery moves beyond traditional SEO. A law firm website must be fast, technically clean, accessible, and well-structured. Personalized practice-area content and visible social proof reinforce trust and conversion. Search is shifting toward AI assistants and answer engines that reward clarity and structure. Conversational content, deep practice pages, and schema markup increase AI visibility. Agencies must actively address AI visibility, schema strategy, and changing discovery behavior. Google Business Profiles remain essential for legitimacy and intent capture. "You have to adapt in life and change and keep up with the times, and it's just so important in our industry and just life in general." —  Wes Lungwitz Check out my new show, Be That Lawyer Coaches Corner, and get the strategies I use with my clients to win more business and love your career again. Ready to go from good to GOAT in your legal marketing game? Don’t miss PIMCON—where the brightest minds in professional services gather to share what really works. Lock in your spot now: https://www.pimcon.org/ Thank you to our Sponsor! Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/ Ready to grow your law practice without selling or chasing? Book your free 30-minute strategy session now—let's make this your breakout year: https://fretzin.com/ About Wes Lungwitz: Wes Lungwitz is the co-founder and managing partner of Civille, a digital marketing and technology company focused exclusively on helping law firms grow. With a background in highly competitive, data-driven digital marketing, he brings modern website, SEO, and analytics strategies to an industry that has traditionally lagged behind other verticals. Wes regularly speaks and writes on the future of legal marketing, including AI-driven search and evolving discovery behavior. Connect with Wes Lungwitz:  Website: https://getciville.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wes-lungwitz-1b532432/ Connect with Steve Fretzin: LinkedIn: Steve Fretzin Twitter: @stevefretzin Instagram: @fretzinsteve Facebook: Fretzin, Inc. Website: Fretzin.com Email: Steve@Fretzin.com Book: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more! YouTube: Steve Fretzin Call Steve directly at 847-602-6911 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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1 week ago
29 minutes 50 seconds

BE THAT LAWYER
Alefiyah Lindo: Why Burnout Is a Signal and How to Realign for Better Results
In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Alefiyah Lindo discuss: Planning the future by evaluating what actually worked Supporting happiness without trying to control it Using energy as a diagnostic tool for alignment Treating burnout as feedback and adjusting accordingly Key Takeaways: Reviewing the past year reveals which habits, strategies, and commitments deserve to continue and which do not. Entering a new year without reflection leads to repeating default patterns rather than making intentional choices. Sustainable growth comes from consistency and long-term relationship building, not one-off efforts. You cannot create happiness for others, only support their ability to create it themselves. Taking responsibility for other people’s emotional outcomes leads to exhaustion and blurred boundaries. Healthy leadership and parenting require allowing others to experience discomfort and self-direction. Alignment exists when beliefs, words, actions, and emotions are consistent with one another. Chronic fatigue, burnout, and self-sabotage are indicators of misalignment rather than laziness or failure. Tracking what energizes and depletes you provides clearer guidance than what you think you “should” enjoy. Burnout signals a need to realign priorities, responsibilities, and expectations. Bringing subconscious patterns into conscious awareness is a prerequisite for lasting change. Different results require different actions, even when those actions challenge long-held assumptions. "Energy work really is when what we believe, what we say, what we do, and what we feel are all on the same page. That’s what energy alignment is." —  Alefiyah Lindo Check out my new show, Be That Lawyer Coaches Corner, and get the strategies I use with my clients to win more business and love your career again. Ready to go from good to GOAT in your legal marketing game? Don’t miss PIMCON—where the brightest minds in professional services gather to share what really works. Lock in your spot now: https://www.pimcon.org/ Thank you to our Sponsor! Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/ Ready to grow your law practice without selling or chasing? Book your free 30-minute strategy session now—let's make this your breakout year: https://fretzin.com/ About Alefiyah Lindo: Alefiyah Lindo is a Mind-Body-Energy Intuitive and licensed psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience, integrating holistic, non-dual approaches to healing that address the mind, body, and energy system. Her work blends intuitive guidance with practices such as mindfulness, breathwork, EFT, and energy medicine, shaped by early Buddhist practice and trauma-informed training. Alefiyah holds degrees from Purdue University and the University of Illinois, is licensed in Illinois, and provides personalized care rooted in both extensive professional training and lived experience, guided by the principle of Namaste — honoring the light in each person she serves. Connect with Alefiyah Lindo: Website: https://www.alefiyahlindo.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alefiyahlindo/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alefiyah-lindo-6a158a83/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@alefiyahlindo9955 Connect with Steve Fretzin: LinkedIn: Steve Fretzin Twitter: @stevefretzin Instagram: @fretzinsteve Facebook: Fretzin, Inc. Website: Fretzin.com Email: Steve@Fretzin.com Book: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more! YouTube: Steve Fretzin Call Steve directly at 847-602-6911 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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1 week ago
31 minutes 23 seconds

BE THAT LAWYER
Deborah Farone: Developing Clients, Confidence, and Career Control
In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Deborah Farone discuss: Using business development as a path to influence and autonomy Starting relationship-building early in your career Aligning marketing with authenticity and personality Deepening trust by focusing on long-term relationships Key Takeaways: Business development gives women greater control over their careers, choices, and leadership opportunities. A strong book of business shifts power dynamics and opens doors that talent alone often cannot. Business development is most effective when it begins in law school, not at a partnership. Early relationships compound over time and prevent habits that isolate lawyers from future clients. The most effective business development reflects who you are, not generic networking scripts. Choosing methods that fit your interests builds consistency, credibility, and long-term momentum. Client loyalty grows from empathy, understanding, and sustained connection beyond transactions. Investing in existing relationships delivers greater impact than constantly chasing new clients. "They say it's five times more expensive to get a brand new client than it is to grow an existing client. So it's a better use of your time." —  Deborah Farone Check out my new show, Be That Lawyer Coaches Corner, and get the strategies I use with my clients to win more business and love your career again. Ready to go from good to GOAT in your legal marketing game? Don’t miss PIMCON—where the brightest minds in professional services gather to share what really works. Lock in your spot now: https://www.pimcon.org/ Thank you to our Sponsor! Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/ Ready to grow your law practice without selling or chasing? Book your free 30-minute strategy session now—let's make this your breakout year: https://fretzin.com/ About Deborah Farone: Deborah Farone is a strategic advisor, author, and speaker specializing in business development and marketing for law firms. She is the founder of Farone Advisors, where she helps lawyers build strong client relationships and sustainable practices. Deborah previously served as Chief Marketing Officer at Cravath, Swaine & Moore and Debevoise & Plimpton, and is widely recognized as a pioneer in legal business development. She is the author of Best Practices in Law Firm Business Development and Marketing and a frequent lecturer at law schools and legal organizations worldwide. Connect with Deborah Farone:  Website: https://deborahfarone.com/ Connect with Steve Fretzin: LinkedIn: Steve Fretzin Twitter: @stevefretzin Instagram: @fretzinsteve Facebook: Fretzin, Inc. Website: Fretzin.com Email: Steve@Fretzin.com Book: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more! YouTube: Steve Fretzin Call Steve directly at 847-602-6911 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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2 weeks ago
32 minutes 5 seconds

BE THAT LAWYER
Charlie Gaudet: Escape the Founder Trap and Scale Your Firm
In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Charlie Gaudet discuss: Moving beyond hard work toward sustainable growth Escaping the founder-centered business model Outperforming talent using systems Protecting time as the highest-leverage asset Key Takeaways: Hard work eventually becomes a liability when it replaces strategy, systems, and recovery. Sustainable growth requires designing the business so it scales without destroying the founder’s health or capacity. Businesses stall when the founder becomes the bottleneck for decisions, delivery, and growth. Long-term scale only happens when systems and teams replace heroic individual effort. Top performers win not because they work harder, but because their systems reduce variation and create consistency. Documented, measurable processes turn small improvements into repeatable, compounding gains. Return on Time matters more than effort, activity, or hours worked. Delegation, automation, and pricing strategy free leaders to focus on high-impact thinking instead of constant execution. "They have to look at ROT, which is return on time… Where are they spending the time, and how do they maximize their time?… Raise your rate… leverage AI… More and more attorneys are able to get more done in less time when they can leverage AI in the right way." —  Charlie Gaudet Check out my new show, Be That Lawyer Coaches Corner, and get the strategies I use with my clients to win more business and love your career again. Ready to go from good to GOAT in your legal marketing game? Don’t miss PIMCON—where the brightest minds in professional services gather to share what really works. Lock in your spot now: https://www.pimcon.org/ Thank you to our Sponsor! Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/ Ready to grow your law practice without selling or chasing? Book your free 30-minute strategy session now—let's make this your breakout year: https://fretzin.com/ About Charlie Gaudet: Charles Gaudet is the author of “The Predictable Profits Playbook: The 7- and 8-Figure CEOs’ Guide to Generating Consistent and Sustainable Growth“ (voted #1 Book on Sales & Marketing by Indie Excellence) and host of The Beyond 7-Figures Podcast. The International Business Times called him “The Go-To Business Coach for 7- and 8-Figure Businesses” and perhaps the “busiest sales coach in the US.“ GritDaily said Gaudet is: “regarded in entrepreneurial circles as one of the top coaches for helping entrepreneurs surpass the seven and eight-figure mark.” Yahoo Finance referred to him as: “The CEO Whisperer.” CEO Weekly said he was one of the top 10 “Innovative CEOs to Follow.” And he’s listed at the top of several “Best Business Coach”  lists. He’s been an entrepreneur since the age of 4, created his first multi-million dollar business at 24, and has helped others generate millions with his strategies. He’s received numerous awards and recognition (including founding a company named as “One of the Best Seed Stage Companies” by Ernst & Young), received his Certificate of Leadership Development from The US Army War College and has his business advice featured around in the world – including Inc., Forbes, Salesforce, Success, Entrepreneur, and Fox Business – as well as on podcasts and radio. He was named one of American Genius’s Top 50 Industry Influencers. He trains in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (two gold medal finishes) and is a 3-time wrestling state champion. He lives in Florida with his beautiful wife, three adorable kid-preneurs, and one badass dog. Connect with Charlie Gaudet:  Website: https://predictableprofits.com/ Connect with Steve Fretzin: LinkedIn: Steve Fretzin Twitter: @stevefretzin Instagram: @fretzinsteve Facebook: Fretzin, Inc. Website: Fretzin.com Email: Steve@Fretzin.com Book: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more! YouTube: Steve Fretzin Call Steve directly at 847-602-6911 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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2 weeks ago
35 minutes 27 seconds

BE THAT LAWYER
Colleen Joyce: Leading, Selling, And Scaling In A Changing Legal Market
In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Colleen Joyce discuss: Failing fast while managing risk Building a competitive legal practice intentionally Treating sales as listening and diagnosis Leading and adapting for the future of law Key Takeaways: Test ideas quickly and learn from small, recoverable failures. Avoid high-stakes decisions that can jeopardize the entire business. Fast iteration builds resilience in a rapid attention and news cycle. Strong branding is essential in a crowded legal market. Lawyers must understand marketing and business, not just legal skills. Personal brand and visibility increasingly determine growth and opportunity. Effective sales begins with asking questions and listening deeply. Clients commit when they feel understood, not when they are pitched.  A clear diagnosis must come before proposing solutions or pricing. Know your strengths and hire to cover gaps. Transparency and honesty strengthen leadership and team trust. Investing in technology, efficiency, and learning is required to stay competitive. "I know lawyers don't like to hear this, but they are salespeople, just like every other job." —  Colleen Joyce Check out my new show, Be That Lawyer Coaches Corner, and get the strategies I use with my clients to win more business and love your career again. Ready to go from good to GOAT in your legal marketing game? Don’t miss PIMCON—where the brightest minds in professional services gather to share what really works. Lock in your spot now: https://www.pimcon.org/ Thank you to our Sponsor! Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/ Ready to grow your law practice without selling or chasing? Book your free 30-minute strategy session now—let's make this your breakout year: https://fretzin.com/ About Colleen Joyce: Colleen Joyce is the Chief Executive Officer of Lawyer.com, the leading U.S. legal directory and lawyer-matching service that connects consumers with qualified local attorneys. She has spent over a decade building and scaling Lawyer.com’s offerings, from foundational directory services to expanded products, marketing education (including CLE courses), and industry events focused on lawyer growth and digital strategy. Joyce previously served as President and Senior Vice President of Lawyer Services, developing deep expertise in management, online legal marketing, and business development before becoming CEO in 2024. Under her leadership, Lawyer.com has experienced significant growth and expanded its role in helping lawyers with client acquisition, thought leadership, and industry engagement. Joyce also brings a background in marketing and publicity from earlier roles, including directing marketing and public relations at PopStar.com, and holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Illinois, graduating magna cum laude in liberal arts and sciences. Connect with Colleen Joyce: Website: http://www.lawyer.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/colleenjoyce/ Connect with Steve Fretzin: LinkedIn: Steve Fretzin Twitter: @stevefretzin Instagram: @fretzinsteve Facebook: Fretzin, Inc. Website: Fretzin.com Email: Steve@Fretzin.com Book: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more! YouTube: Steve Fretzin Call Steve directly at 847-602-6911 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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3 weeks ago
30 minutes 34 seconds

BE THAT LAWYER
Amy Wood: Lawyer Like An Athlete
In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Amy Wood discuss: Cultivating inner balance Training your career like an athlete Building the four pillars of success Managing energy and embracing growth Key Takeaways: Focus on inner balance rather than chasing work–life balance. Intentionally manage your energy, mindset, and relationships to sustain long-term professional performance. Treat your career like elite athletic training by consistently prioritizing physical health, restorative sleep, and daily self-care as essential foundations for mental sharpness. Surround yourself with the four pillars of success: a genuinely supportive network, a solution-oriented mindset, deliberate self-care, and engaging, nourishing diversions that spark creativity. Protect and invest your energy wisely, design environments that actively inspire focus, and embrace mistakes as valuable opportunities for growth, reflection, and learning. "When you're thinking about your energy, look at it like a battery that needs to be recharged." —  Amy Wood Check out my new show, Be That Lawyer Coaches Corner, and get the strategies I use with my clients to win more business and love your career again. Ready to go from good to GOAT in your legal marketing game? Don’t miss PIMCON—where the brightest minds in professional services gather to share what really works. Lock in your spot now: https://www.pimcon.org/ Thank you to our Sponsor! Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/ Ready to grow your law practice without selling or chasing? Book your free 30-minute strategy session now—let's make this your breakout year: https://fretzin.com/ About Amy Wood: Dr. Amy Wood is a licensed psychologist, certified executive coach, and award-winning author who has devoted her career to helping individuals and organizations articulate and arrive at new and more empowering versions of success. In particular, she is known for helping individuals and organizations to edit down overwhelm to their own customized productivity and happiness essentials. With a doctorate from Adler University and a prior career in communications, she inspires transformation with a unique blend of humor, directness, and psychological insight. Dr. Wood’s intention is always to live and work in ways that bring out the best in herself and others. Connect with Amy Wood:  Website: https://amywoodpsyd.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amywoodpsyd/ Connect with Steve Fretzin: LinkedIn: Steve Fretzin Twitter: @stevefretzin Instagram: @fretzinsteve Facebook: Fretzin, Inc. Website: Fretzin.com Email: Steve@Fretzin.com Book: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more! YouTube: Steve Fretzin Call Steve directly at 847-602-6911 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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3 weeks ago
33 minutes 8 seconds

BE THAT LAWYER
Susan Filan: Finding Joy and Peace in a High-Pressure Career
In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Susan Filan discuss: Reclaiming life before life demands it Asking the questions that change everything Stepping off the professional hamster wheel Choosing authenticity over performance Key Takeaways: Near-death experiences show how fragile, temporary, and precious life truly is. Fulfillment starts when we stop postponing purpose and intentionally live each day in alignment with what truly matters most. Fear often hides our deepest desires, but asking the right questions clearly reveals them. Imagining our future self at the end of life helps guide decisions toward what we genuinely want and value. Overwork often masks misalignment with our own integrity, health, and needs. Sustainable progress begins by recognizing limits, slowing down, and making intentional changes that honor both well-being and meaningful work. Long-term fulfillment cannot grow from roles we play to please others or meet external expectations. True joy and inner peace emerge when we live, work, and lead consistently in alignment with our authentic selves. "I can't outsource my happiness. So if I'm not happy today with what I have, where I am... I'm not going to be happy then when I get it." —  Susan Filan Check out my new show, Be That Lawyer Coaches Corner, and get the strategies I use with my clients to win more business and love your career again. Ready to go from good to GOAT in your legal marketing game? Don’t miss PIMCON—where the brightest minds in professional services gather to share what really works. Lock in your spot now: https://www.pimcon.org/ Thank you to our Sponsor! Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/ Ready to grow your law practice without selling or chasing? Book your free 30-minute strategy session now—let's make this your breakout year: https://fretzin.com/ About Susan Filan: Susan is a former prosecutor and MSNBC Senior Legal Analyst turned transformational speaker and life strategist. With over 30 years in high-stakes arenas—from prosecuting cold-case murders to defending clients on death row and analyzing national cases on cable and network television—she has faced some of the toughest challenges imaginable. Her greatest trial, however, came in a near-fatal accident that became her ultimate wake-up call, inspiring her to help others transform crisis into clarity and purpose. Susan blends legal grit, neuroscience, and spiritual insight to guide high achievers in breaking free from limiting beliefs, reigniting their deepest dreams, and creating lives of joy, fulfillment, and impact. Known as The Wake-Up Call Speaker and The Architect of Reinvention, she delivers keynotes, private strategy sessions, immersive retreats, and media appearances designed to awaken potential, spark transformation, and help people reinvent their lives from the inside out. Connect with Susan Filan: Website: https://susanfilan.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanfilan/ Connect with Steve Fretzin: LinkedIn: Steve Fretzin Twitter: @stevefretzin Instagram: @fretzinsteve Facebook: Fretzin, Inc. Website: Fretzin.com Email: Steve@Fretzin.com Book: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more! YouTube: Steve Fretzin Call Steve directly at 847-602-6911 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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4 weeks ago
28 minutes 49 seconds

BE THAT LAWYER
Dustin Ruge: Transforming the Legal Landscape Through Strategy, Value, and AI
In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Dustin Ruge discuss: Strategic decision-making in choosing clients Communicating value through intentional sales processes Adapting to AI-driven shifts in legal labor Rebuilding legal services through integrated ecosystems Key Takeaways: Choosing which cases to decline becomes a powerful profitability strategy. Disciplined selection protects focus, energy, and long-term growth. The strongest outcomes come from working only with motivated, well-aligned clients. Modern legal sales depend on uncovering client needs rather than presenting credentials. Deep qualification shapes tailored solutions that build trust and clarity. Firms that master value communication thrive as outcomes matter more than hours. The billable hour strains against rising expectations for efficiency and transparency. Automation is absorbing routine intake and associate-level work. Firms that embrace value-based pricing gain an advantage in a reshaped landscape. AI is transforming a fragmented industry into cohesive, streamlined platforms. New business structures and investments accelerate disruption and innovation. Lean, automated operations create opportunities in underserved markets. "The first meeting is all about the client, the second meeting is all about you." —  Dustin Ruge Check out my new show, Be That Lawyer Coaches Corner, and get the strategies I use with my clients to win more business and love your career again. Ready to go from good to GOAT in your legal marketing game? Don’t miss PIMCON—where the brightest minds in professional services gather to share what really works. Lock in your spot now: https://www.pimcon.org/ Thank you to our Sponsor! Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/ Ready to grow your law practice without selling or chasing? Book your free 30-minute strategy session now—let's make this your breakout year: https://fretzin.com/ About Dustin Ruge: Dustin W Ruge is known as one of the most respected and trusted sales, marketing, and business growth coaches in the nation. In addition to his numerous books and publications, Dustin frequently appears and is referenced in major news and trade publications, business shows, and trains and keynotes at conferences across the nation. Dustin’s career includes over 27 years’ experience, ranging from technology startups to Fortune 500 companies, where he has received numerous awards and recognition for his work. Dustin graduated from the University of Nebraska – Lincoln and currently lives in Scottsdale, Arizona. Connect with Dustin Ruge: Website: https://dustinruge.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinruge/ Connect with Steve Fretzin: LinkedIn: Steve Fretzin Twitter: @stevefretzin Instagram: @fretzinsteve Facebook: Fretzin, Inc. Website: Fretzin.com Email: Steve@Fretzin.com Book: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more! YouTube: Steve Fretzin Call Steve directly at 847-602-6911 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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1 month ago
30 minutes 58 seconds

BE THAT LAWYER
Pam Meissner: Creating Law Firms That Thrive Long Term
In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Pam Meissner discuss: Aligning strengths with strategy Addressing operational challenges Clarifying compensation and career paths Maximizing long-term firm value Key Takeaways: Successful firm growth depends on matching personal strengths to business goals. Chasing clients or revenue alone does not ensure satisfaction or long-term success. Intentional planning creates a foundation for sustainable growth and fulfillment. Lawyers often face cash flow issues, staff management, and unclear compensation. These operational gaps can lead to stress and sleepless nights if unchecked. Recognizing and addressing challenges early safeguards both firm and personal well-being. Open conversations about pay and partnership tracks motivate legal professionals. Transparency fosters equity and encourages long-term commitment from team members. Clear structures help attorneys understand their role in firm growth and success. Profitability, efficient systems, and reducing single-owner dependency matter most. External guidance, such as fractional CFOs, can help firms overcome growth plateaus. Strategic planning ensures the firm remains valuable for exits or future opportunities. "Everybody wants more money, and they don't realize it comes with problems, and they don't realize that we all get paid for solving problems, but you have to pick the problems you're really good at solving, because if you're solving problems that you're not good at, you're going to be miserable." —  Pam Meissner Check out my new show, Be That Lawyer Coaches Corner, and get the strategies I use with my clients to win more business and love your career again. Ready to go from good to GOAT in your legal marketing game? Don’t miss PIMCON—where the brightest minds in professional services gather to share what really works. Lock in your spot now: https://www.pimcon.org/ Thank you to our Sponsor! Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/ HireParalegals: https://hireparalegals.com/ Ready to grow your law practice without selling or chasing? Book your free 30-minute strategy session now—let's make this your breakout year: https://fretzin.com/ About Pam Meissner: Pam Meissner is the COO, Director of Client Services & CFO at CathCap. She is a seasoned CPA and financial executive whose career spans public accounting, multinational corporations, and entrepreneurial ventures. She has served as a CPA, CFO, COO, CEO, and even a stay-at-home mom, bringing a rare combination of technical expertise and real-world business insight to every role. Now at CathCap, Pam leverages her decades of experience to guide clients in financial strategy, operational excellence, and coaching, helping businesses achieve sustainable growth and success. Connect with Pam Meissner: Website: https://cathcap.com/ Connect with Steve Fretzin: LinkedIn: Steve Fretzin Twitter: @stevefretzin Instagram: @fretzinsteve Facebook: Fretzin, Inc. Website: Fretzin.com Email: Steve@Fretzin.com Book: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more! YouTube: Steve Fretzin Call Steve directly at 847-602-6911 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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1 month ago
29 minutes 19 seconds

BE THAT LAWYER
Adam Williams: Maximizing Tax Strategy For Law Firms
In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Adam Williams discuss: Planning taxes proactively Exploring creative tax strategies Building a professional team Implementing actionable year-end steps Key Takeaways: Most law firms wait until filing to address taxes, missing savings opportunities. Working with a tax strategist year-round aligns decisions with long-term goals. Proactive planning uncovers ways to reduce liabilities and strengthen financial outcomes. Techniques like the Augusta rule, hiring family members, and royalty setups save money. Advanced structures such as captive insurance can provide additional tax benefits. Knowing these options allows law firms to tailor strategies to their unique situation. Successful tax and business strategies require bookkeepers, advisors, and strategists. Delegating responsibilities reduces personal burden while improving firm performance. A strong team empowers owners to focus on growth and long-term success. Year-end is ideal for accelerating deductions and making tax-advantaged purchases. Prepaying vendors or investing in marketing can reduce taxable income efficiently. Evaluating current practices ensures every opportunity for savings is captured. "If they don’t bring you ideas throughout the year, you don’t have a tax strategist. You have a tax preparer." —  Adam Williams Check out my new show, Be That Lawyer Coaches Corner, and get the strategies I use with my clients to win more business and love your career again. Ready to go from good to GOAT in your legal marketing game? Don’t miss PIMCON—where the brightest minds in professional services gather to share what really works. Lock in your spot now: https://www.pimcon.org/ Thank you to our Sponsor! Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/ HireParalegals: https://hireparalegals.com/ Ready to grow your law practice without selling or chasing? Book your free 30-minute strategy session now—let's make this your breakout year: https://fretzin.com/ About Adam Williams: Adam started this business out of frustration with accountants who congratulated him for having a large tax bill. As a serial entrepreneur, Adam is inspired by entrepreneurship and small business, direct response marketing, non-traditional and unexpected solutions, mindset & personal development, helping create businesses that serve the owners, and high-performance driving. Adam received his undergraduate degree in Business from Penn State Behrend and his MBA and J.D. from the University of Pittsburgh. A Cathedral Prep graduate and active member of the community, Adam has served on the Board of Directors for the Erie County Bar Association, Lakeshore Community Services, the Innovation Collaborative, and the Erie Art Museum. He was named to the 2013 Erie Reader 40 Under 40, and has also been listed as a Pennsylvania Super Lawyers Rising Star in 2016, 2017, 2018, and 2019. Connect with Adam Williams: Website: https://www.pennywise.tax/ Connect with Steve Fretzin: LinkedIn: Steve Fretzin Twitter: @stevefretzin Instagram: @fretzinsteve Facebook: Fretzin, Inc. Website: Fretzin.com Email: Steve@Fretzin.com Book: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more! YouTube: Steve Fretzin Call Steve directly at 847-602-6911 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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1 month ago
30 minutes 42 seconds

BE THAT LAWYER
Ben Dach: Growing Through Guidance and Experience
In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Ben Dach discuss: Prioritizing layered mentorship Strengthening firm culture for development Maintaining clear communication in mentoring Using delegation and varied experience for growth Key Takeaways: Professionals should pursue multiple mentors with complementary strengths to build balanced legal and leadership skills. Proactive outreach broadens perspective and accelerates growth across stages of a career. Treating mentorship as a continuous discipline ensures steady, long-term development. Growth is amplified in environments that value collaboration, approachability, and shared learning. Supportive cultures help young attorneys apply feedback with confidence and consistency. When mentorship is part of a firm’s values, long-term development becomes more sustainable. Clear expectations and honest conversations create stability and direction in mentor relationships. Early resolution of misalignment strengthens trust and accountability for both sides. Consistent feedback loops reinforce progress and keep development moving forward. Delegation offers meaningful opportunities to build judgment and independence through real responsibility. Structured tools provide quality and clarity as workloads expand over time. Diverse experiences and firm environments round out long-term professional capability. "Just do the things and fail. Fail a lot, because you won't know until you do the things, and then you fail, and then you learn." —  Ben Dach Check out my new show, Be That Lawyer Coaches Corner, and get the strategies I use with my clients to win more business and love your career again. Ready to go from good to GOAT in your legal marketing game? Don’t miss PIMCON—where the brightest minds in professional services gather to share what really works. Lock in your spot now: https://www.pimcon.org/ Thank you to our Sponsor! Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/ HireParalegals: https://hireparalegals.com/ Ready to grow your law practice without selling or chasing? Book your free 30-minute strategy session now—let's make this your breakout year: https://fretzin.com/ About Ben Dach: Benjamin Dach, Ph.D., Esq., is an accomplished patent attorney with extensive experience in intellectual property litigation, prosecution, and counseling. With experience in patent, copyright, and trademark litigation, procurement, and licensing, Ben focuses on development, protection, and monetization of patent, copyright, and trademark portfolios, strategic licensing, commercial agreements, diligence, and enforcement strategies. He has represented clients in numerous actions in U.S. courts, administrative proceedings, and before the Patent Trial and Appeal Board and Trademark Trial and Appeal Board. Connect with Ben Dach: Website: https://pierferd.com/benjamin-i-dach LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjamindach/ Connect with Steve Fretzin: LinkedIn: Steve Fretzin Twitter: @stevefretzin Instagram: @fretzinsteve Facebook: Fretzin, Inc. Website: Fretzin.com Email: Steve@Fretzin.com Book: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more! YouTube: Steve Fretzin Call Steve directly at 847-602-6911 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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1 month ago
29 minutes 13 seconds

BE THAT LAWYER
Allison Williams: Strengthening Your Practice Through Structure
In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Allison Williams discuss: Developing business skills beyond legal training Balancing legal work with true leadership roles Strengthening sales and client relationships with structure Reducing stress through systems, communication, and metrics Key Takeaways: Law school doesn’t teach the core business, sales, and time-management abilities required to run a successful firm. Lawyers must intentionally build these skills to avoid overwhelm and stagnation. Growth begins when practitioners embrace authenticity, process, and systemization. Many lawyer-owners struggle to act as both practitioner and CEO, leading to stress and inefficiency. Strong operational leaders and a capable C-suite can restore focus and improve firm performance. Delegating business responsibilities is essential for long-term sustainability. Sales shouldn’t feel like auditioning for clients; the goal is to understand needs and build genuine rapport. Structured processes help qualify leads, nurture relationships, and improve conversion rates. Starting with reliable referral sources and existing channels leads to better outcomes. Systematized communication—from clear policies to automated updates—prevents client-driven chaos. Tools like workflow systems or SaneBox support better task and email management. Tracking metrics such as conversion rates and lead quality ensures informed, data-driven decisions. “Being authentic is the easiest, fastest, most profitable way for you to get to the outcome that you desire.” —  Allison Williams Check out my new show, Be That Lawyer Coaches Corner, and get the strategies I use with my clients to win more business and love your career again. Ready to go from good to GOAT in your legal marketing game? Don’t miss PIMCON—where the brightest minds in professional services gather to share what really works. Lock in your spot now: https://www.pimcon.org/ Thank you to our Sponsor! Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/ HireParalegals: https://hireparalegals.com/ Ready to grow your law practice without selling or chasing? Book your free 30-minute strategy session now—let's make this your breakout year: https://fretzin.com/ About Allison Williams: Allison C. Williams is the owner of not one, but two multimillion-dollar companies. She is the Founder of Williams Law Group, a full-service family law firm where she is a Fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, is certified by the New Jersey Supreme Court as a Matrimonial Law Attorney, and is certified by the National Board of Trial Advocacy in Family Law. After taking Williams Law Group from a start-up to a multimillion-dollar law business in 3.5 years, she decided to help other law firm owners do the same by starting Law Firm Mentor. Today, Law Firm Mentor helps law firm owners across the country grow their revenues, crush chaos in business, and make significantly more money in less time! Allison is a LawFirm500 award winner, ranking 14th out of the fastest-growing law firms in the nation. She has also been named a Stevie Award Finalist for Female Entrepreneur of the Year in 2017 and 2018, voted NJBIZ’s Top 50 Women in Business, and designated as one of the Top 25 Leading Women Entrepreneurs and Business Owners. Allison has been featured in The Law Entrepreneur, Above the Law, and Modern Solo, along with other leading legal publications. She is also the host of the Law Firm Mentor podcast, where lawyers go to learn how to crush the chaos in their business. Connect with Allison Williams: Website: https://lawfirmmentor.net/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisoncwilliams/  Connect with Steve Fretzin: LinkedIn: Steve Fretzin Twitter: @stevefretzin Instagram: @fretzinsteve Facebook: Fretzin, Inc. Website: Fretzin.com Email: Steve@Fretzin.com Book: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more! YouTube: Steve Fretzin Call Steve directly at 847-602-6911 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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1 month ago
33 minutes 40 seconds

BE THAT LAWYER
Danielle Hendon: Building Sustainable Profit For Modern Law Firms
In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Danielle Hendon discuss: Embracing perseverance Shifting mindsets for sustainability Transitioning toward flat fee models Balancing finances for growth Key Takeaways: Perseverance shapes long-term success by turning setbacks into momentum rather than defeat. Continuing the work is what separates progress from failure. Stopping, not struggling, is the only real loss. Firms thrive when they prioritize profitability and long-term health, ensuring they can keep serving clients with excellence. This mindset shift strengthens stability. It helps legal teams build a practice that lasts. Moving from billable hours to flat fees boosts efficiency, scale, and client trust when managed with clarity and intention. Careful rollout keeps expectations aligned. The shift can transform the client experience. Monitoring vital metrics like the rule of thirds helps maintain healthy revenue distribution and protects profitability. This supports passion projects and pro bono work. Clients benefit from transparency and lower stress. "You are never a failure until you stop trying. Everything is an opportunity to win and move forward. You haven't failed until you stop persevering. When you've given up, that's failure." —  Danielle Hendon Check out my new show, Be That Lawyer Coaches Corner, and get the strategies I use with my clients to win more business and love your career again. Ready to go from good to GOAT in your legal marketing game? Don’t miss PIMCON—where the brightest minds in professional services gather to share what really works. Lock in your spot now: https://www.pimcon.org/ Thank you to our Sponsor! Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/ HireParalegals: https://hireparalegals.com/ Ready to grow your law practice without selling or chasing? Book your free 30-minute strategy session now—let's make this your breakout year: https://fretzin.com/ About Danielle Hendon: Danielle Hendon is the Founder and CEO of 4 Corners CFO, where she helps small business owners make smart financial decisions. She has over a decade of experience in corporate finance and accounting, and once led an audit team through a corporate bankruptcy. Danielle believes that financial statements tell a story, not just numbers—and that entrepreneurs should be empowered to write their own chapters. She started 4 Corners CFO to give business owners clarity and confidence so they can build profitable and sustainable legacies. Before her finance career, she studied music. Today, she draws on that creativity to bring both discipline and vision to her work. At the heart of it all, Danielle is a mom—and her children inspire her daily to do work that matters. Connect with Danielle Hendon: Website: https://4cornerscfo.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielle-hendon/ Connect with Steve Fretzin: LinkedIn: Steve Fretzin Twitter: @stevefretzin Instagram: @fretzinsteve Facebook: Fretzin, Inc. Website: Fretzin.com Email: Steve@Fretzin.com Book: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more! YouTube: Steve Fretzin Call Steve directly at 847-602-6911 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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1 month ago
31 minutes 47 seconds

BE THAT LAWYER
Be That Lawyer Live: Building a Practice That Lasts (Part 2)
In this episode, Steve Fretzin, Tim Semelroth, Casey Grabenstein, and Neil Dishman discuss: Treating business development as essential Using systems and empowering teams Building a culture of growth Learning through resilience and honesty Key Takeaways: Integrating business development into daily routines and tracking it like billable work ensures steady growth. Making it non-negotiable builds consistency and prevents unpredictable cycles. Leveraging CRM tools, spreadsheets, and point systems keeps outreach organized and accountable. Involving junior lawyers in relationships and strategy builds future rainmakers. Firms that reward, support, and normalize business development create sustainable success. Encouragement at every level strengthens engagement and results. Focusing on process over outcome turns setbacks into lessons and maintains momentum. Honest communication and reflection foster better relationships and continuous improvement. "For me, making myself feel satisfied that I’ve put in enough in that week to get good results, and then not worrying about whether the results come in… Try to stop worrying about the results and focus on the process is the best that I can do." —  Casey Grabenstein Check out my new show, Be That Lawyer Coaches Corner, and get the strategies I use with my clients to win more business and love your career again. Ready to go from good to GOAT in your legal marketing game? Don’t miss PIMCON—where the brightest minds in professional services gather to share what really works. Lock in your spot now: https://www.pimcon.org/ Thank you to our Sponsor! Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/ HireParalegals: https://hireparalegals.com/ Ready to grow your law practice without selling or chasing? Book your free 30-minute strategy session now—let's make this your breakout year: https://fretzin.com/ About Tim Semelroth: Tim Semelroth is Iowa’s only board-certified truck accident attorney and a partner at RSH Legal. With over 25 years of experience, he provides trusted expertise in trucking litigation and collaborates with attorneys statewide and beyond. Known for his strategic approach and commitment to fairness, Tim offers consultation to help chart the best course for complex truck accident cases. Connect with Tim Semelroth: Website: https://www.timsemelroth.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timsemelroth/ About Casey Grabenstein: Casey Grabenstein is a litigation partner at Saul Ewing LLP, handling complex commercial disputes and class actions involving securities, consumer fraud, and ERISA. He also advises clients in the cannabis and litigation funding industries, serving as both due diligence and primary counsel. A frequent writer and speaker, Casey brings deep insight into emerging issues in litigation finance and commercial law. Connect with Casey Grabenstein: Website: https://www.saul.com/professionals/casey-grabenstein LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/casey-grabenstein-a375094/ About Neil H. Dishman: Neil H. Dishman is a principal at Jackson Lewis P.C. in Chicago, where he helps employers prevent and resolve workplace disputes. His practice spans discrimination, retaliation, and wage-hour compliance, with extensive experience across multiple industries. A sought-after speaker and published author, Neil is known for his practical guidance on employment law and risk management. Connect with Neil H. Dishman: Website: https://www.jacksonlewis.com/people/neil-h-dishman LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timsemelroth/ Email: Neil.Dishman@jacksonlewis.com Connect with Steve Fretzin: LinkedIn: Steve Fretzin Twitter: @stevefretzin Instagram: @fretzinsteve Facebook: Fretzin, Inc. Website: Fretzin.com Email: Steve@Fretzin.com Book: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more! YouTube: Steve Fretzin Call Steve directly at 847-602-6911 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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1 month ago
31 minutes 40 seconds

BE THAT LAWYER
Be That Lawyer Live: Building a Practice That Lasts (Part 1)
In this episode, Steve Fretzin, Tim Semelroth, Casey Grabenstein, and Neil Dishman discuss: Building consistent habits Tracking meaningful metrics Repurposing and leveraging content Cultivating strategic relationships Key Takeaways: Dedicating time, using accountability systems, and leveraging support drives sustained business growth. Consistency and structure keep focus sharp and opportunities within reach. Monitoring key indicators and focusing on high-value relationships ensures well-directed effort. Data-driven strategy prevents waste and maximizes measurable results. Sharing content across channels expands reach and strengthens brand visibility. Strategic reuse multiplies impact without overextending resources. Nurturing peers, colleagues, and referral sources yields lasting dividends. Balancing expertise with connection builds trust and opens new opportunities. "It starts with knowing your numbers. You have to know where your cases are coming from. You have to track very carefully. You know what the average case value is. And once you start doing things like that, then the answers become obvious." —  Tim Semelroth Check out my new show, Be That Lawyer Coaches Corner, and get the strategies I use with my clients to win more business and love your career again. Ready to go from good to GOAT in your legal marketing game? Don’t miss PIMCON—where the brightest minds in professional services gather to share what really works. Lock in your spot now: https://www.pimcon.org/ Thank you to our Sponsor! Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/ HireParalegals: https://hireparalegals.com/ Ready to grow your law practice without selling or chasing? Book your free 30-minute strategy session now—let's make this your breakout year: https://fretzin.com/ About Tim Semelroth: Tim Semelroth is Iowa’s only board-certified truck accident attorney and a partner at RSH Legal. With over 25 years of experience, he provides trusted expertise in trucking litigation and collaborates with attorneys statewide and beyond. Known for his strategic approach and commitment to fairness, Tim offers consultation to help chart the best course for complex truck accident cases. Connect with Tim Semelroth: Website: https://www.timsemelroth.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timsemelroth/ About Casey Grabenstein: Casey Grabenstein is a litigation partner at Saul Ewing LLP, handling complex commercial disputes and class actions involving securities, consumer fraud, and ERISA. He also advises clients in the cannabis and litigation funding industries, serving as both due diligence and primary counsel. A frequent writer and speaker, Casey brings deep insight into emerging issues in litigation finance and commercial law. Connect with Casey Grabenstein: Website: https://www.saul.com/professionals/casey-grabenstein LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/casey-grabenstein-a375094/ About Neil H. Dishman: Neil H. Dishman is a principal at Jackson Lewis P.C. in Chicago, where he helps employers prevent and resolve workplace disputes. His practice spans discrimination, retaliation, and wage-hour compliance, with extensive experience across multiple industries. A sought-after speaker and published author, Neil is known for his practical guidance on employment law and risk management. Connect with Neil H. Dishman: Website: https://www.jacksonlewis.com/people/neil-h-dishman LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neildishman/ Email: Neil.Dishman@jacksonlewis.com Connect with Steve Fretzin: LinkedIn: Steve Fretzin Twitter: @stevefretzin Instagram: @fretzinsteve Facebook: Fretzin, Inc. Website: Fretzin.com Email: Steve@Fretzin.com Book: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more! YouTube: Steve Fretzin Call Steve directly at 847-602-6911 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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1 month ago
31 minutes 16 seconds

BE THAT LAWYER
Lee Rudin: Turning Purpose Into Profit In Modern Law
In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Lee Rudin discuss: Aligning business with purpose Preparing financially before independence Marketing actively and creatively Leveraging systems, technology, and people Key Takeaways: Building a law practice around shared success creates deeper fulfillment and stronger client relationships. Choosing work that serves others transforms daily effort into long-term motivation and genuine impact. Purpose becomes the foundation that sustains growth beyond profit or recognition. Launching a firm requires a clear understanding of cash flow, expenses, and delayed revenue cycles. Planning for at least 120 days without income establishes realistic expectations and stability. Financial awareness and discipline ensure resilience during the early, uncertain stages of growth. Obscurity, not competition, remains the greatest risk in professional services. Consistent visibility through digital campaigns, community engagement, and creative branding drives trust. Distinct messaging turns curiosity into recognition and recognition into opportunity. Efficiency grows when repetitive tasks are automated and skilled support is used effectively. Strategic use of offshore staff and fair compensation creates scalable, sustainable operations. Generosity, structure, and smart tools combine to amplify performance without excess cost. "You’ve got to give people a reason to pick you. If you’re the same as everyone else, you’ll just disappear." —  Lee Rudin Check out my new show, Be That Lawyer Coaches Corner, and get the strategies I use with my clients to win more business and love your career again. Ready to go from good to GOAT in your legal marketing game? Don’t miss PIMCON—where the brightest minds in professional services gather to share what really works. Lock in your spot now: https://www.pimcon.org/ Thank you to our Sponsor! Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/ HireParalegals: https://hireparalegals.com/ Ready to grow your law practice without selling or chasing? Book your free 30-minute strategy session now—let's make this your breakout year: https://fretzin.com/ About Lee Rudin: Lee Rudin is the Founder and Principal Attorney of Rudin Law, a New Orleans–based personal injury firm recognized for its bold and client-centered approach. A graduate of Tulane University and Tulane Law School, Lee began his career in insurance defense before founding his own firm to better align his work with his values, helping people while running a modern, efficient practice. Known for his innovative use of technology and offshore talent, Lee combines sharp legal skill with entrepreneurial creativity. His signature brand motto, “Stop Being Polite. Get Rude.”, captures his fearless style and commitment to standing up for clients. Connect with Lee Rudin:  Website: https://www.getrude.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leerudin/ & https://www.linkedin.com/company/rudin-law/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rudinlawnola/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/getrudelaw/ Connect with Steve Fretzin: LinkedIn: Steve Fretzin Twitter: @stevefretzin Instagram: @fretzinsteve Facebook: Fretzin, Inc. Website: Fretzin.com Email: Steve@Fretzin.com Book: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more! YouTube: Steve Fretzin Call Steve directly at 847-602-6911 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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2 months ago
32 minutes 59 seconds

BE THAT LAWYER
Walt Hampton: Building A Career That Feeds Your Soul
In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Walt Hampton discuss: Following what lights you up Mastering time instead of managing it Saying no to create freedom Preventing burnout through alignment Key Takeaways: Fulfillment doesn’t come from doing what seems logical but from pursuing what makes you come alive. Many lawyers achieve success yet feel empty inside. True success begins when you align your career with your values, strengths, and passions. Time can’t be managed, only mastered. Working in focused 60–90 minute blocks, minimizing interruptions, and protecting white space helps restore clarity and productivity. How you use your time reflects how much you value yourself. Every yes dilutes your energy and focus. Learning to say no with grace allows you to set boundaries and prioritize what truly matters. The word “no” is not rejection—it’s an act of self-leadership that protects your well-being. Burnout fades when your choices reflect your purpose. Create white space, delegate with trust, and honor your physical and mental health. The goal isn’t just endurance—it’s building a life and practice that truly sustains you. "No is a full sentence. Every yes we give dilutes our effectiveness." —  Walt Hampton Check out my new show, Be That Lawyer Coaches Corner, and get the strategies I use with my clients to win more business and love your career again. Ready to go from good to GOAT in your legal marketing game? Don’t miss PIMCON—where the brightest minds in professional services gather to share what really works. Lock in your spot now: https://www.pimcon.org/ Thank you to our Sponsor! Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/HireParalegals: https://hireparalegals.com/ Ready to grow your law practice without selling or chasing? Book your free 30-minute strategy session now—let's make this your breakout year: https://fretzin.com/ About Walt Hampton: Walt Hampton, J.D., is the Founder & CEO of Summit Success, LLC, a global personal and professional development firm dedicated to helping high-achievers design meaningful work, master time, and live with purpose. A 1984 graduate of Cornell Law School, Walt spent nearly 25 years as managing partner of a commercial litigation and criminal-defense law firm before transitioning to full-time coaching, consulting, training, and speaking. He is the bestselling author of books including Journeys on the Edge: Living a Life That Matters and The Power Principles of Time Mastery: Do Less, Make More, Have Fun. He has trained under Tony Robbins’ Results Coach program, and is a sought-after speaker on topics of leadership, time mastery, and sustainable peak performance. Beyond his professional work, Walt is known for his adventurous pursuits—high-altitude mountaineering, ultra-distance running, and blue-water sailing—underscoring his belief that personal transformation and professional mastery go hand in hand. Connect with Walt Hampton: Website: https://www.walthampton.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/walthampton/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/walthamptonjr Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whamptonjr/?hl=en Connect with Steve Fretzin: LinkedIn: Steve Fretzin Twitter: @stevefretzin Instagram: @fretzinsteve Facebook: Fretzin, Inc. Website: Fretzin.com Email: Steve@Fretzin.com Book: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more! YouTube: Steve Fretzin Call Steve directly at 847-602-6911 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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2 months ago
33 minutes 24 seconds

BE THAT LAWYER
Brian Haugh: Mastering the Lateral Move
In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Brian Haugh discuss: Navigating a selective legal market Preparing for a lateral move effectively Building control through specialization Approaching interviews with intention Key Takeaways: The current recruitment landscape favors lawyers with portable books and proven client relationships. Service partners without clear revenue streams face fewer interview opportunities than before. Understanding this shift helps lawyers position themselves strategically for lasting success. Before making a move, gather concrete data on your clients, billables, and performance metrics. Research each potential firm to assess culture, support systems, and compensation structure. Avoid counter-offers and be ready to explain your motivation with confidence and clarity. Developing a focused niche and growing a book of business provides leverage and stability. Lawyers with established clients can earn up to 20% more while shaping their own trajectory. Becoming a market master turns expertise into opportunity and independence. Strong interviews center on curiosity, alignment, and authenticity, not just compensation. Show genuine interest in the firm’s mission while understanding its support for your growth. Preparation and presence create trust, leading to stronger and more strategic offers. "All you got to do is focus on the next second, the next minute, the next hour, the next day, the next week-whatever it is, you don't have to solve the world's problems right now." —  Brian Haugh Check out my new show, Be That Lawyer Coaches Corner, and get the strategies I use with my clients to win more business and love your career again. Ready to go from good to GOAT in your legal marketing game? Don’t miss PIMCON—where the brightest minds in professional services gather to share what really works. Lock in your spot now: https://www.pimcon.org/ Thank you to our Sponsor! Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/ Legalverse Media: https://legalversemedia.com/ HireParalegals: https://hireparalegals.com/ Ready to grow your law practice without selling or chasing? Book your free 30-minute strategy session now—let's make this your breakout year: https://fretzin.com/ About Brian Haugh: Brian G. Haugh is a Partner and Senior Partner at Shapiro Legal Search, a member firm of the Sanford Rose Associates network. He helps lead the firm’s legal recruitment services, specializing in identifying top legal talent and placing senior-level attorneys who bring both technical excellence and business insight. With years of experience in legal search, Brian’s work sits at the intersection of law practice strategy and executive recruiting. His approach emphasizes integrity, transparency, and long-term relationships, helping candidates and firms navigate complex career transitions with clarity and confidence. Outside of his professional role, Brian is a certified private pilot and an active member of the Entrepreneurs’ Organization – Chicago. He holds a degree from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and remains committed to continuous learning and high-performance leadership. Connect with Brian Haugh: Phone: 312-593-0810 Connect with Steve Fretzin: LinkedIn: Steve Fretzin Twitter: @stevefretzin Instagram: @fretzinsteve Facebook: Fretzin, Inc. Website: Fretzin.com Email: Steve@Fretzin.com Book: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more! YouTube: Steve Fretzin Call Steve directly at 847-602-6911 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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2 months ago
31 minutes 9 seconds

BE THAT LAWYER
BE THAT LAWYER is for attorneys who want more freedom, enjoyment and most importantly, control in their career. Topics will include business development, marketing, branding, technology, and law firm growth. The goal is to educate, entertain and share best practices related to these topics, so that you, the listener can get real value. This is primarily an interview show with great guests (attorneys and legal marketing professionals), sharing stories and analogies, as well as engaging in personal discussions that will keep you entertained and coming back week after week.