BE THAT LAWYER

In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Merry Neitlich discuss:Challenges in legal marketingImportance of branding in law firmsEvolving marketing techniquesIntegration of branding with business development Key Takeaways:Lawyers often misunderstand branding as a tagline, but effective branding requires a deep dive into what makes their services unique and meaningful to clients.Without integrating marketing and business development efforts, even the best branding will not drive results, as lawyers must raise visibility through thought leadership and client engagement.Short-form videos and data-driven social media strategies are increasingly important, with platforms like LinkedIn promoting interactive content that boosts engagement.One of the major obstacles to effective marketing and branding is lawyers' lack of time, which can be mitigated by using outsourcing and automation for content creation and promotion. "A lot of lawyers think having a tagline like 'excellent experience wisdom' would be great, but that doesn't differentiate them from the person who cleans your pool or the plumber." —  Merry Neitlich Read Steve's past episodes as Blogcasts—visit now: https://www.fretzin.com/blog/ Thank you to our Sponsors!Ready to go from good to GOAT? Attend PIMCOM the inaugural personal injury mastermind conference Sept 15-17, 2024. Use promo code BeThatLawyer to get $200.00 off at https://www.pimcon.org/Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/Rainmakers Roundtable: https://www.fretzin.com/lawyer-coaching-and-training/peer-advisory-groups/ Episode References: The Ultimate Sales Revolution by Steve Lishansky: https://www.amazon.com/Ultimate-Sales-Revolution-Differently-Change/dp/1599325519 About Merry Neitlich: For 25 years, Merry Neitlich has been assisting law firms to drive revenue by creating unique brands with unusual and deep differentiation. She then applies this clearly branded messaging to each client's website and social media platforms. Once the brand essence is clearly created, Merry develops unique and sustainable business development opportunities for her clients.Merry, a founding partner of EM Consulting, frequent speaker, and author, was inducted into the Legal Marketing Association Hall of Fame in 2017 and is also an accomplished figure skater with multiple national titles. Connect with Merry Neitlich:  Website: https://emconsults.org/Email: merry@emconsults.orgPhone: 949-260-0936LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/merryneitlich/ 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. 

In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Justin Krane discuss:Challenges lawyers face with managing their financesThe importance of automating financial systemsThe connection between lifestyle choices and financial healthStrategies for building a financially secure law practice Key Takeaways:Automating the transfer of funds between business and personal accounts helps remove emotion from financial decisions and ensures steady savings.Lawyers often struggle with personal finances because they lack clarity on their business model and revenue generation strategies.Over-spending on luxury items like vacations and yachts while neglecting long-term savings can disrupt financial stability.A reframe from thinking of business expenses as "spending" to viewing them as "investing" helps ensure lawyers prioritize sustainable growth and ROI. "You have to be a prosperity thinker. You have to be able to believe that you can create and manifest the financial life that you want and make things happen." —  Justin Krane Read Steve's past episodes as Blogcasts—visit now: https://www.fretzin.com/blog/ Thank you to our Sponsors!Ready to go from good to GOAT? Attend PIMCOM the inaugural personal injury mastermind conference Sept 15-17, 2024. Use promo code BeThatLawyer to get $200.00 off at https://www.pimcon.org/Rainmakers Roundtable: https://www.fretzin.com/lawyer-coaching-and-training/peer-advisory-groups/ Episode References: INspired INsider Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inspired-insider-podcast/id729464589The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel: https://www.amazon.com/Psychology-Money-Timeless-lessons-happiness/dp/0857197681 About Justin Krane: Justin Krane, a Certified Financial Planner™ professional, is the founder of Krane Financial Solutions. Known for his savvy, holistic approach to financial planning, he advises his clients on how to unite their business and personal money with their lives. Justin works with his clients to create purpose-driven financial plans, aiming for a "return on life." He manages his clients’ investment portfolios for their long-term goals, such as retirement. Justin is the author of the book Money. You Got This. It’s a book about everyday crazy, funny life experiences that we all have – with lessons for all of us. Connect with Justin Krane:  Website: https://kranefinancialsolutions.com/Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinkrane/Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/krane-financial-solutions/ 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. 

In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Melanie Herschorn discuss:Book writing for lawyersChallenges in book publishingBooks as marketing toolsRole of technology and AI in publishing Key Takeaways:Lawyers can streamline book creation by repurposing existing content instead of writing new material daily.Carefully vet publishers to avoid rights loss or financial exploitation by selecting those with transparency and industry expertise.Successful book marketing involves pre-launch planning, continual promotion, and leveraging various channels like media and podcasts.AI can assist with editing and formatting but should not be heavily relied upon for writing due to potential quality and copyright issues. "You just want to remember that it isn't about book sales. It's really about leveraging the book for client retention, client acquisition, and visibility opportunities." —  Melanie Herschorn Read more from Steve at Above the Law: AboveTheLaw.com/tag/Steve-Fretzin/ Thank you to our Sponsors!Ready to go from good to GOAT? Attend PIMCOM the inaugural personal injury mastermind conference Sept 15-17, 2024. Use promo code BeThatLawyer to get $200.00 off at https://www.pimcon.org/Get Staffed Up: https://getstaffedup.com/bethatlawyer/Rainmakers Roundtable: https://www.fretzin.com/lawyer-coaching-and-training/peer-advisory-groups/ Episode References:The Jamie Kern Lima Show: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-jamie-kern-lima-show/id1728723635 About Melanie Herschorn: Melanie Herschorn is dedicated to helping you step into the spotlight as an authority. As a publisher and book marketing expert for attorneys and business owners worldwide, she empowers authors to share their message with the world while leveraging their book for impact, influence, and income. With over 20 years of experience as a celebrity publicist, award-winning journalist in radio, print, and TV, as well as a clothing designer and entrepreneur, Melanie is uniquely positioned to support authors in becoming thought leaders and making a significant impact with their books. Her latest book, Make a Big Impact with Your Book, is now available. Transform your expertise into a powerful book—download The Ultimate Publishing Guide now: https://yourbigimpactbook.info/attorneyguide Connect with Melanie Herschorn:  Website: https://vipbookmarketing.com/Books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Melanie-Herschorn/author/B09X9HQXLTLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melanie-herschorn/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/melherschornInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bigimpactbooks/ 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. 

In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Gregg Goldfarb discuss:Evolving legal marketing strategiesNon-lawyer ownership in law firmsRevenue growth through referrals and partnershipsNetworking and education for lawyers Key Takeaways:Lawyers can expand their revenue streams by engaging in referral marketing, where they identify cases outside their expertise and refer them to other firms, earning a fee for the referral​.Non-lawyer owned firms are now possible in states like Arizona, allowing lawyers to partner with marketers or business professionals to focus on legal work while leveraging external business expertise for growth.Legal professionals should invest in their personal growth through education, coaching, and attending legal conferences to learn new strategies for marketing, networking, and expanding their business horizons.The legal industry is seeing increased involvement from financial entities like Wall Street, which is providing capital to law firms for mass tort cases, highlighting the growing intersection of finance and law. "The legal conferences now are much better... it’s entertainment, it’s information, it’s connections." —  Gregg Goldfarb Read more from Steve at Above the Law: AboveTheLaw.com/tag/Steve-Fretzin/ Thank you to our Sponsors!Ready to go from good to GOAT? Attend PIMCOM the inaugural personal injury mastermind conference Sept 15-17, 2024. Use promo code BeThatLawyer to get $200.00 off at https://www.pimcon.org/Get Staffed Up: https://getstaffedup.com/bethatlawyer/Rainmakers Roundtable: https://www.fretzin.com/lawyer-coaching-and-training/peer-advisory-groups/ Episode References: The Daily Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-daily/id1200361736 About Gregg Goldfarb: Gregg Goldfarb is a trial lawyer with over 30 years of experience, focusing on, among other things, mass torts. Gregg also hosts his own podcast called Cut to the Chase, which covers public interest issues ranging from law, the environment, and anti-Semitism to the arts. Connect with Gregg Goldfarb:  Website: https://gregggoldfarb.com/Phone: 305-374-7000Show: Cut To The Chase Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cut-to-the-chase-podcast-hosted-by-gregg-goldfarb/id1551362164LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregggoldfarb/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/masstortguy/ 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. 

In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Douglas Wood discuss:Career transition planning for lawyersEffective planning and execution in law firmsChallenges for senior lawyers in staying relevantLeveraging senior lawyers' expertise in law firms Key Takeaways:Lawyers should self-assess to identify their strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities early to make informed career decisions and avoid unwanted retirement.Law firms can create cohorts for senior lawyers to share knowledge and discuss transitioning their practices, similar to support provided for other groups like veterans or LGBTQ+ professionals.Solo practitioners and small firm owners benefit from planning the transfer of their client base well before retirement to ensure service continuity and maximize the value of client relationships.A robust book of business greatly impacts a lawyer's career longevity and retirement options. "Lawyers can get very lucky at times, but more often than not, if you're planning it, you're going to see the success that you need." —  Douglas Wood Read more from Steve at Above the Law: AboveTheLaw.com/tag/Steve-Fretzin/ Thank you to our Sponsors!Ready to go from good to GOAT? Attend PIMCOM the inaugural personal injury mastermind conference Sept 15-17, 2024. Use promo code BeThatLawyer to get $200.00 off at https://www.pimcon.org/Get Staffed Up: https://getstaffedup.com/bethatlawyer/Rainmakers Roundtable: https://www.fretzin.com/lawyer-coaching-and-training/peer-advisory-groups/ Episode References: The Power of Positive Thinking: https://www.amazon.com/Power-Positive-Thinking-Norman-Vincent/dp/0743234804 About Douglas Wood: Douglas Wood, author of From Dawn to Dusk: How to Build a Multimillion Dollar Law Practice and Then Give It Away, offers guidance on building a multimillion-dollar law practice and transitioning to retirement or other pursuits. With nearly fifty years of legal experience, including over twenty in Big Law, Doug retired to mentor young attorneys and those preparing to leave the profession. A novelist with ten books—seven fiction and three non-fiction—he is currently writing his eighth novel. Doug holds a BA from the University of Rhode Island, a JD from Franklin Pierce Law Center, an LLM from NYU, an Honorary Doctor of Laws from the University of New Hampshire, and has taught at UNH and University College Cork in Ireland. Connect with Douglas Wood:  Website: https://douglasjwood.com/Books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Douglas-J.-Wood/author/B00BCJRTV6LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/djwood1976 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. 

In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Paige Fox discuss:The importance of mindfulness and wellness in professional lifeThe challenges lawyers face with time management and stressThe impact of meditation on mental health and productivityStrategies for lawyers to maintain a balanced lifestyle Key Takeaways:Chronic stress and long work hours often lead to burnout, highlighting the need to integrate mindfulness and wellness into daily routines to maintain mental health and job performance.Managing time through delegation, automation, and prioritization is crucial for professionals, especially lawyers, to allocate time for self-care practices like meditation and exercise.Incorporating a brief daily meditation practice, even if only for five minutes, can offer substantial benefits by significantly reducing stress levels and enhancing overall emotional resilience and clarity.The focus on billable hours and client demands often causes lawyers to neglect their wellness, leading to long-term health issues unless they balance professional and personal well-being. "Be the energy you want to attract." —  Paige Fox Read more from Steve at Above the Law: AboveTheLaw.com/tag/Steve-Fretzin/ Thank you to our Sponsors!Ready to go from good to GOAT? Attend PIMCOM the inaugural personal injury mastermind conference Sept 15-17, 2024. Use promo code BeThatLawyer to get $200.00 off at https://www.pimcon.org/Get Staffed Up: https://getstaffedup.com/bethatlawyer/Rainmakers Roundtable: https://www.fretzin.com/lawyer-coaching-and-training/peer-advisory-groups/ Episode References: Bledsoe Said So podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/bledsoe-said-so/id1573038290 About Paige Fox: Paige N. Fox is the founder of Fox Law, LLC, a remote law firm in Illinois, and does of-counsel work for Erwin Law, LLC, and DentCoulson Elder Law. She specializes in estate planning, special needs planning, and elder law. As President of the Illinois Chapter of NAELA and Chair of the CBA’s Young Lawyers Section Serving Our Seniors Committee, Paige is committed to professional development and community service. Recognized as a Rising Star by Super Lawyers since 2022, she received the David C. Hilliard Award in 2023. Paige earned her JD from Chicago-Kent College of Law and enjoys pro bono work, flying trapeze, sports, and dance. Connect with Paige Fox:  Email: paige@foxelderlaw.orgLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/attorneypaigefox/Linktree: https://linktr.ee/paigefox_attorney 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. 

In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Frank Rekas discuss:Effectively managing and growing a law practiceCommon challenges in professional practice operationsThe role of delegation in business efficiencyBuilding connections for business development Key Takeaways:Lawyers often struggle with financial management because they aren't taught business skills in law school, leading them to handle finances disorganized, resulting in missed opportunities and inefficiencies.Many law firm owners wear too many hats, such as managing finances, marketing, and administrative tasks, distracting from legal work and hindering productivity and success.Successful law firms should delegate by hiring specialists, like fractional CFOs for oversight and marketers for development, ensuring each business aspect is managed by experts, letting lawyers focus on their best work.Building a strong network, particularly through social media and direct engagement with potential clients or partners, can greatly enhance a lawyer’s ability to grow their practice and establish themselves as experts. "You need to be organized, and by getting organized, that means you need to have a financial plan." —  Frank Rekas Read more from Steve at Above the Law: AboveTheLaw.com/tag/Steve-Fretzin/ Thank you to our Sponsors!Ready to go from good to GOAT? Attend PIMCOM the inaugural personal injury mastermind conference Sept 15-17, 2024. Use promo code BeThatLawyer to get $200.00 off at https://www.pimcon.org/Get Staffed Up: https://getstaffedup.com/bethatlawyer/Lawmatics: https://www.lawmatics.com/bethatlawyer/ Episode References: The Power Of Zero Show: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-power-of-zero-show/id1441026169 About Frank Rekas: Frank Rekas is a seasoned financial professional with over 30 years of experience in financial services. Based in South Florida, Frank has been with Equitable Advisors since 2014, focusing on helping attorneys, business owners, and individuals navigate complex financial planning, particularly through divorce. He holds multiple FINRA registrations and is actively involved in his community as a board member of the American Hellenic Education Philanthropic Association (AHEPA). Frank is known for his personalized approach, building strong, lifelong relationships with his clients. Connect with Frank Rekas:  Email: frank.rekas@myplutusfinancial.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/frankrekas/Phone: 954-253-5508 (Mobile) and 561-961-9312 (Office) 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. 

Dr. Sharon Meit Abrahams, an expert in legal talent development, discusses key strategies for enhancing professional growth among lawyers. She emphasizes the importance of inspiring mentorship and developing essential people skills, which are often overlooked in legal training. The conversation covers how effective supervision and communication can combat underperformance. Abrahams also highlights the shift in generational expectations within the field, promoting emotional intelligence and collaboration as vital components of successful legal leadership.

In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Phil Gafka discuss:The impact of cultural shifts on workplace harmonyThe role of clear expectations in boosting employee morale and productivityHow inclusive leadership practices improve job satisfactionLeveraging unique team experiences and backgrounds Key Takeaways:Embracing cultural changes, valuing diverse perspectives, and fostering collaboration create a more inclusive and harmonious workplace for all employees.Clear communication of organizational goals and work-life balance boosts employee loyalty, satisfaction, retention, and productivity.Emphasizing collaborative and inclusive leadership over top-down management enhances job satisfaction and career fulfillment, making employees feel valued and heard.Leveraging unique backgrounds and experiences fosters a respectful, innovative environment that strengthens the community and boosts overall performance and satisfaction. "Culture is everything. How you do what you do is the biggest indicator of whether you're going to be successful." —  Phil Gafka Read more from Steve at Above the Law: AboveTheLaw.com/tag/Steve-Fretzin/ Thank you to our Sponsors!Ready to go from good to GOAT? Attend PIMCOM the inaugural personal injury mastermind conference Sept 15-17, 2024. Use promo code BeThatLawyer to get $200.00 off at https://www.pimcon.org/Get Staffed Up: https://getstaffedup.com/bethatlawyer/Lawmatics: https://www.lawmatics.com/bethatlawyer/ Episode References: The Infinite Game by Simon Sinek: https://www.amazon.com/Infinite-Game-Simon-Sinek/dp/073521350X About Phil Gafka: Phil Gafka is a Certified Business Coach and the Founder of LEAP Associates, Inc., a premier executive coaching and business development firm. With four decades of leadership and business development experience, Phil excels in helping clients, including business owners, executives, and entrepreneurs, unlock their potential for elevated performance. He specializes in executive coaching, strategic planning, and team leadership, using his extensive experience and certifications in tools like DISC and the TriMetrix Legacy Profile to guide clients toward their goals. Phil’s unique insights and practical approach stem from his own journey from corporate executive to successful business owner. Connect with Phil Gafka:  Website: https://www.leapcoaching.com/Email: Phil@leapcoaching.comLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/philgafka/ 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. 

In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Nanette Fridman discuss:Expanding professional networks through board serviceThe role of lawyers in board settingsEnhancing board effectiveness through diverse skillsStrategic relationship-building in nonprofit organizations Key Takeaways:Serving on boards lets lawyers contribute to meaningful causes while boosting their skills and network, making their careers more fulfilling.Lawyers should assess board members for a diverse skill mix before joining to ensure the position offers personal growth and enrichment.Engaging with board members outside formal meetings helps build stronger relationships, increases collaboration, and generates referrals, benefiting both the lawyer and the organization.Lawyers’ leadership skills are highly valued in board settings, providing effective governance and offering increased visibility and networking opportunities. "Lawyers are great board members. People love having them on the board, and they often are natural leaders. And so, they become board chairs." —  Nanette Fridman Read more from Steve at Above the Law: AboveTheLaw.com/tag/Steve-Fretzin/ Thank you to our Sponsors!Ready to go from good to GOAT? Attend PIMCOM the inaugural personal injury mastermind conference Sept 15-17, 2024. Use promo code BeThatLawyer to get $200.00 off at https://www.pimcon.org/Get Staffed Up: https://getstaffedup.com/bethatlawyer/Lawmatics: https://www.lawmatics.com/bethatlawyer/ Episode References: ReThinking Podcast by Adam Grant: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rethinking/id1554567118About Nanette Fridman: Nanette Fridman is an organizational strategist, facilitator, and executive coach known for her dynamic and empowering approach. As the founder of Effect Collective and the author of On Board and Holding the Gavel, she excels in helping organizations and leaders optimize resources, strategize for the future, and enhance governance. With a background in corporate law and advocacy, Nanette brings a wealth of experience and high energy to her work as a national speaker, trainer, and facilitator for diverse audiences, including management teams, boards, and emerging leaders. Connect with Nanette Fridman:  Website: https://www.effect-collective.comOn Board: What Current and Aspiring Board Members Must Know About Nonprofits and Board ServiceHolding the Gavel: What Nonprofit Board Leaders Need to Know  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nanettefridmanIs This Board For Me? Questions to ask: https://shorturl.at/3TilQ 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.