

BE THAT LAWYER
Steve Fretzin
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.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Nov 20, 2025 • 32min
Danielle Hendon: Building Sustainable Profit For Modern Law Firms
In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Danielle Hendon discuss:Embracing perseveranceShifting mindsets for sustainabilityTransitioning toward flat fee modelsBalancing 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 FretzinTwitter: @stevefretzinInstagram: @fretzinsteveFacebook: Fretzin, Inc.Website: Fretzin.comEmail: Steve@Fretzin.comBook: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more!YouTube: Steve FretzinCall Steve directly at 847-602-6911 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

Nov 17, 2025 • 32min
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 essentialUsing systems and empowering teamsBuilding a culture of growthLearning 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-grabensteinLinkedIn: 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-dishmanLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timsemelroth/Email: Neil.Dishman@jacksonlewis.com Connect with Steve Fretzin:LinkedIn: Steve FretzinTwitter: @stevefretzinInstagram: @fretzinsteveFacebook: Fretzin, Inc.Website: Fretzin.comEmail: Steve@Fretzin.comBook: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more!YouTube: Steve FretzinCall Steve directly at 847-602-6911 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

Nov 13, 2025 • 31min
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 habitsTracking meaningful metricsRepurposing and leveraging contentCultivating 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-grabensteinLinkedIn: 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-dishmanLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neildishman/Email: Neil.Dishman@jacksonlewis.comConnect with Steve Fretzin:LinkedIn: Steve FretzinTwitter: @stevefretzinInstagram: @fretzinsteveFacebook: Fretzin, Inc.Website: Fretzin.comEmail: Steve@Fretzin.comBook: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more!YouTube: Steve FretzinCall Steve directly at 847-602-6911 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

Nov 10, 2025 • 33min
Lee Rudin: Turning Purpose Into Profit In Modern Law
In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Lee Rudin discuss:Aligning business with purposePreparing financially before independenceMarketing actively and creativelyLeveraging 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 FretzinTwitter: @stevefretzinInstagram: @fretzinsteveFacebook: Fretzin, Inc.Website: Fretzin.comEmail: Steve@Fretzin.comBook: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more!YouTube: Steve FretzinCall Steve directly at 847-602-6911 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

Nov 6, 2025 • 33min
Walt Hampton: Building A Career That Feeds Your Soul
In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Walt Hampton discuss:Following what lights you upMastering time instead of managing itSaying no to create freedomPreventing 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/walthamptonjrInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/whamptonjr/?hl=enConnect with Steve Fretzin:LinkedIn: Steve FretzinTwitter: @stevefretzinInstagram: @fretzinsteveFacebook: Fretzin, Inc.Website: Fretzin.comEmail: Steve@Fretzin.comBook: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more!YouTube: Steve FretzinCall Steve directly at 847-602-6911 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

Nov 3, 2025 • 31min
Brian Haugh: Mastering the Lateral Move
In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Brian Haugh discuss:Navigating a selective legal marketPreparing for a lateral move effectivelyBuilding control through specializationApproaching 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 FretzinTwitter: @stevefretzinInstagram: @fretzinsteveFacebook: Fretzin, Inc.Website: Fretzin.comEmail: Steve@Fretzin.comBook: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more!YouTube: Steve FretzinCall Steve directly at 847-602-6911 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

Oct 30, 2025 • 32min
Dr. Rachel Boehm: Sustaining Excellence Through Resilience
In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Dr. Rachel Boehm discuss:Building systems that support adaptabilityRedefining peak performance for longevityClearing mental clutter for growthPursuing fulfillment through reflection and learning Key Takeaways:Sustainable success in law combines strong organizational structures with personal flexibility. This balance allows attorneys to navigate change, manage chaos, and stay grounded amid demands.True performance isn’t about short-term output but about consistency and well-being over time. Intentional rest, stress management, and self-care sustain excellence without leading to burnout.Unhelpful “head trash” often limits progress more than external pressures or workload.Addressing mindset challenges builds clarity, resilience, and openness to new possibilities.Regularly reassessing goals and definitions of success keeps one aligned and purposeful. Continuous improvement, mentorship, and meaning-centered work lead to lasting contentment. "Culture is a verb. You have to keep creating it." — Dr. Rachel Boehm 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/ 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 Dr. Rachel Boehm: Rachel Boehm is an award-winning journalist turned workplace-wellness advocate who helps individuals and organizations redefine success, mental clarity, and sustainable performance. With a background in communications and well-being, she guides clients past “head trash,” builds adaptive systems, and cultivates lasting contentment rather than short-term fixes. Rachel’s work blends empathy and strategy, equipping professionals to lead with heart, purpose, and resilience. Connect with Dr. Rachel Boehm: Website: https://rachelboehm.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachelboehm/ Connect with Steve Fretzin:LinkedIn: Steve FretzinTwitter: @stevefretzinInstagram: @fretzinsteveFacebook: Fretzin, Inc.Website: Fretzin.comEmail: Steve@Fretzin.comBook: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more!YouTube: Steve FretzinCall Steve directly at 847-602-6911 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

Oct 27, 2025 • 34min
Charles Gallaer: Simplifying the Practice to Amplify the Impact
In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Charles Gallaer discuss:Simplifying communication for clarityBuilding systems for an organizationInvesting in professional growthLearning resilience through experience Key Takeaways:Lawyers who communicate simply build stronger connections with clients and colleagues. Clear language removes confusion and makes legal concepts easier to understand. Simplicity earns trust and enhances professional credibility.Effective systems keep information, tasks, and deadlines in check. Tools like OneNote, Remarkable, and frameworks like “Second Brain” support focus and structure. The organization ensures consistency and reliability in client service.Continuous learning and adopting new technologies strengthen long-term success. Investing in tools, systems, and skills helps lawyers stay efficient and relevant. Growth-minded professionals turn adaptation into an advantage.Setbacks are learning opportunities, not reasons for regret. By reflecting instead of reacting, lawyers can grow wiser and more confident. Resilience transforms challenges into lasting professional strength. "It's important to keep things simple...anything we can do to boil it down into as simple as terms...through that simplicity, it can really give you a level of clarity that you didn't think was possible." — Charles Gallaer 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/ 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 Charles Gallaer: Charles Gallaer, Esq., is an attorney focused on automotive retail and dealership law. He is licensed in New York, New Jersey, and Florida and serves as an associate advising manufacturers, dealer groups, and franchised operators.Before law school, he held roles at Ford Motor Company and served as general manager of his family’s Lincoln-Mercury dealership, giving him hands-on operational insight into the industry. He earned his J.D. with distinction from Brooklyn Law School and holds a B.A. from the University of Virginia.Charles advises on transactions, litigation, compliance, data privacy, EV mandates, and vendor contracts. He speaks regularly at industry events and contributes to publications on dealership law and regulation. Connect with Charles Gallaer: Website: https://www.afslaw.com/attorneys/charles-gallaerLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlesgallaer/Connect with Steve Fretzin:LinkedIn: Steve FretzinTwitter: @stevefretzinInstagram: @fretzinsteveFacebook: Fretzin, Inc.Website: Fretzin.comEmail: Steve@Fretzin.comBook: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more!YouTube: Steve FretzinCall Steve directly at 847-602-6911 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

Oct 23, 2025 • 32min
Stacey Brown Randall: You Deserve Referrals, But You Do Not Owe Them
In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Stacey Brown Randall discuss:The realities and misconceptions of referral marketing for professionalsBuilding genuine, relationship-driven client experiences that foster loyaltyBalancing efficiency, personalization, and automation in client communicationMindset management and learning from business failures in professional growth Key Takeaways:Doing great work alone doesn’t automatically generate referrals—intentional relationship-building and structured referral strategies are essential.A strong client experience combines excellent work output with emotional connection and proactive relationship touchpoints across the “new,” “active,” and “alumni” stages.Only about 20–30% of clients are typically referred; managing expectations and distinguishing between repeat and referred clients prevents misleading assumptions about referral rates.Protecting one’s mindset and resisting external pressure or comparison—especially regarding success metrics—is crucial to maintaining authenticity and preventing burnout. "Doing great work does not equal referrals." — Stacey Brown Randall 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/ 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 Stacey Brown Randall: Stacey Brown Randall is the author of the new book, The Referable Client Experience, the award-winning book, Generating Business Referrals Without Asking, and the host of the Roadmap to Referrals podcast. Stacey teaches business owners how to generate referrals naturally...without manipulating, incentivizing, or even asking. She has been featured in national publications like Entrepreneur magazine, Investor's Business Daily, Forbes, and more. She received her Master’s in Organizational Communication and is married with three kids. Connect with Stacey Brown Randall: Website: https://staceybrownrandall.com/Book: The Referable Client Experience: https://referableclientexperience.com/Show: Roadmap to Referrals: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/roadmap-to-referrals/id1405302350LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/staceybrandall/ Connect with Steve Fretzin:LinkedIn: Steve FretzinTwitter: @stevefretzinInstagram: @fretzinsteveFacebook: Fretzin, Inc.Website: Fretzin.comEmail: Steve@Fretzin.comBook: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more!YouTube: Steve FretzinCall Steve directly at 847-602-6911 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

Oct 20, 2025 • 32min
Addison Watson: Building Freedom, Confidence, and Clients in Modern Law
In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Addison Watson discuss:Building and sustaining a law practice through intentional business developmentThe challenges of transitioning from large firm life to independent or entrepreneurial practiceThe influence of mindset, discipline, and mentorship on legal career growthThe evolving role of technology and AI in shaping modern legal careers and firm structures Key Takeaways:Failing to invest time in networking and business development early in one’s career can severely limit future autonomy and opportunity.Setting aside even one weekly breakfast, coffee, or lunch meeting can spark lasting professional relationships that later generate referrals.Attorneys who treat themselves as entrepreneurs—outsourcing low-value tasks and tracking ROI—free more time for growth and client work.Lawyers who own a portable “book of business” gain control over their careers, whether moving laterally or launching a solo practice, and are less threatened by AI or firm instability. "If you feel the anxiety of being an entrepreneur, it might not be for you." — Addison Watson 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/ 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/ Episode References: Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert T. Kiyosaki: https://www.amazon.com/Rich-Dad-Poor-Teach-Middle/dp/1612680194Tees and CLEs take place April 15–17, 2026, at the Arizona Grand Resort & Spa, uniting legal professionals for accredited education, networking, and a round or two of golf: https://www.teesandcles.com/ About Addison Watson: Addison Watson is the founder of Summit Legal Consulting, a Birmingham-based firm that helps businesses and law firms close deals efficiently and build smarter legal operations. Leveraging his background as a corporate attorney at Balch & Bingham LLP and his current role as General Counsel at ClickFunnels, Addison brings a dealmaker’s mindset to every client engagement. He’s also the co-founder of Tees and CLEs, an annual event combining accredited legal education with networking and golf for attorneys nationwide. A graduate of the University of Mississippi School of Law, Addison is passionate about blending legal strategy, entrepreneurship, and innovation to redefine how modern lawyers practice and connect. Connect with Addison Watson: Website: https://www.teesandcles.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/addison-watson/ & https://www.linkedin.com/company/slc205/Connect with Steve Fretzin:LinkedIn: Steve FretzinTwitter: @stevefretzinInstagram: @fretzinsteveFacebook: Fretzin, Inc.Website: Fretzin.comEmail: Steve@Fretzin.comBook: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more!YouTube: Steve FretzinCall Steve directly at 847-602-6911 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.


