The Game Changing Attorney Podcast with Michael Mogill 340. The Risk That Nearly Broke His Firm — Jay Kelley’s $100M Branding Playbook [Encore Edition]
How can attorneys integrate leadership, strategy, and branding to build a thriving firm?
In this episode of The Game Changing Attorney Podcast, Michael Mogill sits down with Jay Kelley, managing partner of Elk + Elk, to explore how one of Ohio's largest personal injury firms has evolved and flourished. Jay shares his unconventional journey into law, drawing from an early love of persuasive speaking he discovered through acting, and how this unique background has shaped his approach to becoming a trial attorney.
Here's what you'll learn:
- How transformative life experiences can shape your practice and lead you to a fulfilling legal career
- The importance of building a firm culture that is both collaborative and capable of handling serious, complex cases
- Why strategic brand building and community engagement are crucial for long-term success in the legal industry
Law firm leaders who truly want to elevate their impact need to go beyond just winning cases — they need to transform their firms from the inside out. This isn't just about marketing strategies or business development — it’s about embodying authenticity, perseverance, and a relentless commitment to growth.
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Show Notes:
00:00 – Introduction
02:16 – Jay Kelley's Journey: From Prosecutor to Plaintiff’s Attorney
05:55 – The Power of Listening in the Courtroom
07:35 – Finding Purpose in Medical Malpractice Cases
09:07 – Balancing Being a Trial Attorney and a Law Firm Business Leader
12:46 – Branding a Law Firm: Standing Out in a Competitive Market
17:45 – Community Involvement and Brand Recall Strategies
25:50 – The Difference Between Brand Recall and Credibility
31:52 – Transitioning a Law Firm’s Leadership and Legacy
42:56 – What It Means to Be a Game-Changing Attorney
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Links & Resources:
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Past guests on The Game Changing Attorney Podcast include David Goggins, John Morgan, Alex Hormozi, Randi McGinn, Kim Scott, Chris Voss, Kevin O’Leary, Laura Wasser, John Maxwell, Mark Lanier, Robert Greene, and many more.
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