the declarations. podcast with Host Todd S. Rich

Fred Klein, Senior Counsel at DLA Piper and Host Todd S. Rich, Co-Founder & Partner of Declaration Partners

Jul 17, 2025

Fred Klein, Senior Counsel at DLA Piper, is a prominent figure in Washington D.C.'s real estate law scene, known for his insightful approach to client relationships. In a heartfelt discussion, Fred shares how personal connections and mentorship have shaped his career. He emphasizes the importance of empathy and trust in legal interactions. The conversation touches on the role of AI in real estate, his shift to teaching at Georgetown, and the value of gratitude in forging lasting professional ties. It's a reflective take on leadership and the human elements of law.

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ANECDOTE

Learning Meaningful Interactions

Fred Klein learned to make all human interactions meaningful from his father and friend Ray Ritchie.
Ray's genuine care for a security guard showed Fred how meaningful connections build value.

ANECDOTE

Mercersburg Shaped Fred's Identity

Fred credits Mercersburg Academy for teaching him to take risks in a supportive environment.
Being a Jewish student in a predominantly non-Jewish school helped build his identity and confidence.

ANECDOTE

Accidental Start in Real Estate

Fred's real estate career began when he was reassigned from a nuclear power plant litigation.
A senior associate saved him and introduced Fred to real estate deals that launched his specialty.

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In this episode of declarations., Host Todd S. Rich sits down with Fred Klein for a deeply personal and wide-ranging conversation about law, legacy, and leadership. Fred reflects on a distinguished legal career shaped by meaningful mentorship, rigorous standards, and his enduring commitment to human connection. From his early influences at Mercersburg Academy to his pivotal role in Washington D.C.'s real estate legal landscape, Fred shares stories that illuminate how relationships, empathy, and trust have defined his approach to law and life. The episode also explores Fred’s reflections on artificial intelligence, his passion for teaching, and the values that guide his ongoing work in philanthropy and education.

They discuss:

Why Fred’s guiding principle is to make all human interactions meaningful
His formative experiences at Mercersburg Academy and how they shaped his identity
The unlikely moment that launched his real estate law career
How he builds enduring client relationships across private equity, family offices, and public companies
Why AI and data transparency are opportunities—not threats—to the legal industry
His belief that reputation, handwritten notes, and generosity still matter in a tech-driven world
How he’s approaching his “non-retirement” through teaching, board work, and community service

A thoughtful listen for anyone interested in leadership, mentorship, and the human side of high-stakes law and investing.

Links:

Declaration Partners - https://www.declarationpartners.com/podcast

Be a Work in Progress: And Other Things I'd Like to Tell My Younger Self by John Cena: https://a.co/d/hgvUqkd

From Strength to Strength: Finding Success, Happiness, and Deep Purpose in the Second Half of Life by Arthur C. Brooks: https://a.co/d/dDKWZAF

The Happiness Advantage: How a Positive Brain Fuels Success in Work and Life by Shawn Achor: https://a.co/d/5RK6q61

(00:00:00) - Intro
(00:02:26) - Fred's declaration: Making human interactions meaningful
(00:05:49) - Fred's early life and education
(00:08:51) - Journey into law and real estate
(00:17:49) - Partnerships and career growth
(00:21:12) - Diverse clientele and tailored advice
(00:23:31) - Investor expectations and risk management
(00:25:38) - Adapting to real estate market changes
(00:26:14) - The role of artificial intelligence in real estate
(00:29:31) - The importance of relationships in business
(00:32:32) - Expressing gratitude and personal growth
(00:37:22) - Philanthropy and future plans
(00:41:40) - Books and advice for personal development
(00:45:09) - Closing remarks and disclaimers