BE THAT LAWYER

Nick Augustine, a former lawyer turned digital marketing expert, runs Lone Star Content Marketing. He emphasizes the importance of authenticity in legal branding, encouraging lawyers to share personal stories on social media to build trust with clients. Nick discusses the pitfalls of outsourcing marketing without infusing personal narrative and highlights the need for grassroots relationship-building over reliance on digital ads. He believes a strong brand is shaped by genuine interactions and client feedback, revealing what truly distinguishes an attorney.

In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Howard Ankin discuss:The strategic use of media and marketing in legal servicesThe evolving role of lawyers in both legal practice and business developmentBuilding personal and firm-wide brand equity in competitive industriesAdapting to modern client behaviors and expectations Key Takeaways:Focus on ethical, long-term brand visibility rather than chasing the latest marketing gimmicks. Consistency and integrity build lasting trust.Use traditional and digital media together to reinforce brand recognition, especially by being present where your audience already is.Develop deep professional relationships by aligning your identity and messaging with authenticity, so clients know exactly who you are and what to expect.Stay current on technology and regulations impacting outreach, but avoid tactics that risk client privacy or cross ethical lines. "There’s no question that the success of any lawyer, anywhere and anytime, comes from having and associating with great people." —  Howard Ankin Unlock the secrets of the industry's top rainmakers with Be That Lawyer: 101 Top Rainmakers’ Secrets to Growing a Successful Law Practice. Grab your ultimate guide to building a thriving law firm now on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F78HXJHT Thank you to our Sponsors!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/ Episode References: Good to Great by Jim Collins: https://www.amazon.com/Good-Great-Some-Companies-Others/dp/0066620996 About Howard Ankin: Howard Ankin is the principal owner of Ankin Law, a leading Chicago-based firm he co-founded with his father in 1997. A third-generation attorney, Howard has deep roots in the legal community and longstanding relationships with many clients. Ankin Law has grown to become one of Illinois' largest filers of injury and workers’ compensation cases, supported by over 90 attorneys and staff. Howard is also a recognized legal leader and active community member, serving on multiple legal boards and earning numerous professional honors. Connect with Howard Ankin:  Website: https://ankinlaw.com/Phone: 3126000000LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/howard-ankin-9671743/ & https://www.linkedin.com/company/ankin-law/Twitter: https://x.com/ankinlawFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AnkinLawOffice/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ankinlaw/ 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 Cecilia Poullain discuss:The intersection of personal transformation and professional identityNavigating and overcoming fear through self-expressionThe power of storytelling in reclaiming one’s voiceShifting from traditional career paths to more authentic, purpose-driven lives Key Takeaways:To overcome fear of public speaking or visibility, engage in practices like vocal training or performance-based activities that reconnect you with your physical voice and sense of self-expression.Before pursuing a major career opportunity, reflect deeply on whether the role aligns with your true values and identity, rather than simply accepting it based on prestige or external validation.Avoid falling into perfectionism by giving yourself permission to make mistakes, take small experimental steps, and speak up even when your contribution feels imperfect or incomplete.Create intentional professional communities where you can actively contribute, connect with aligned individuals, and develop visibility, rather than waiting passively for recognition or advancement. " A real destroyer of confidence is perfectionism." —  Cecilia Poullain Unlock the secrets of the industry's top rainmakers with Be That Lawyer: 101 Top Rainmakers’ Secrets to Growing a Successful Law Practice. Grab your ultimate guide to building a thriving law firm now on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F78HXJHT Thank you to our Sponsors!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/ Episode References: Rebel Ideas by Matthew Syed: https://www.amazon.com/Rebel-Ideas-Power-Diverse-Thinking/dp/1473613949 About Cecilia Poullain: Cecilia Poullain is a certified executive coach and former finance lawyer who helps women in law make partner and lead with confidence. Qualified in Australia, the UK, and France, she brings decades of legal experience to her work coaching female lawyers on the path to partnership.Cecilia supports women in building confidence, navigating firm politics, and developing a strong client base to succeed at the highest levels. Through her 1:1 coaching, Pathway to Partnership program, and Firm Women breakfasts in Paris, she empowers women lawyers to rise, lead, and drive change in the legal profession. Connect with Cecilia Poullain:  Website: https://www.ceciliapoullain.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ceciliapoullain 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 Mark Murphy discuss:The challenges and nuances of hiring the right talent for law firmsThe critical distinction between attitude and skills in recruitmentHow leadership traits can hinder effective hiring decisionsPractical strategies for improving the legal hiring and interview process Key Takeaways:Eighty-nine percent of new hires fail due to attitude issues like entitlement or resistance to feedback, not because of technical skill gaps, showing why firms must prioritize attitude in hiring.Top-performing teams rely on five key roles—director, trailblazer, harmonizer, achiever, and stabilizer—each providing distinct behavioral strengths that drive success.Interviewers can quickly spot problem solvers by asking about a past mistake and seeing if the candidate naturally explains how they resolved it without prompting.High performers use first-person and past-tense language when describing real experiences, while weaker candidates rely on vague, hypothetical answers using second-person phrasing. "I always tell leaders this: ironically, the better the leader you are, often the worse hirer you are, because you have to dial down your natural optimism and desire to see everybody be great." —  Mark Murphy Unlock the secrets of the industry's top rainmakers with Be That Lawyer: 101 Top Rainmakers’ Secrets to Growing a Successful Law Practice. Grab your ultimate guide to building a thriving law firm now on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F78HXJHT Thank you to our Sponsors!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/ Episode References: Think Again by Adam Grant: https://www.amazon.com/Think-Again-Power-Knowing-What/dp/1984878107 About Mark Murphy: Mark Murphy is a New York Times bestselling author whose groundbreaking book Hiring for Attitude has transformed the way companies hire and build high-performing teams. His pioneering research revealed that nearly half of new hires fail within 18 months — and a staggering 89% of those failures result from attitude, not a lack of skills. His insights have reshaped hiring strategies for Fortune 500 companies, fast-growing startups, and government agencies worldwide. Connect with Mark Murphy:  Website: https://www.leadershipiq.com/Book: Hiring for Attitude: https://www.amazon.com/Hiring-Attitude-Revolutionary-Recruiting-Tremendous/dp/1259860906LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markamurphy/ & https://www.linkedin.com/company/leadership-iq/ 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 Susie Pontefract discuss:Evolving leadership across generational landscapesEmbedding purpose-driven organizational strategiesBuilding cultures of human potentialPersonal values shaping leadership impact Key Takeaways:Leadership requires letting go of ego and creating intentional space for others to step in, lead, and grow through a foundation of trust, mutual respect, and genuine empowerment.Effective leaders must prioritize understanding and supporting their team's holistic development by recognizing individual potential, nurturing personal growth, and creating environments that transcend traditional workplace boundaries.Organizations should transform their approach from treating employees as human capital to cultivating human potential by embracing each individual's unique strengths, aspirations, and capacity for meaningful contribution.Successful leadership demands continuous learning, deep empathy, and adaptive strategies that bridge generational differences, foster inclusive communication, and create collaborative environments where diverse talents can flourish. "If you want to be a rainmaker out there doing your own thing, then give your people the power to get the rest of it done and make sure you're giving them the kudos and credit when they do." —  Susie Pontefract Unlock the secrets of the industry's top rainmakers with Be That Lawyer: 101 Top Rainmakers’ Secrets to Growing a Successful Law Practice. Grab your ultimate guide to building a thriving law firm now on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F78HXJHT Thank you to our Sponsors!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/ Episode References: Good Boss, Bad Boss by Robert I. Sutton: https://www.amazon.com/Good-Boss-Bad-Learn-Worst/dp/0446556076 About Susie Pontefract: Susie is a dynamic and results-oriented leader and mentor with over 20 years of demonstrated success in strategic leadership, team management, and value delivery across a wide range of industries and company sizes. She is recognized for empowering teams, inspiring leaders, and building strong, collaborative partnerships across all organizational levels—from front-line employees to executives, board members, and external stakeholders. As the founder of Cohearence Consulting, Susie is dedicated to helping small to mid-sized companies strengthen their organizations through cohesive strategies, aligned teams, and exceptional execution. Connect with Susie Pontefract:  Website: co-hear-ence.comEmail: susie@co-hear-ence.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susiepontefract/ & https://www.linkedin.com/company/cohearence-consulting 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 John Morgan discuss:Business growth and scaling strategiesImportance of partnerships and accountabilityTechnological innovation in professional servicesEntrepreneurial mindset and vision Key Takeaways:Successful businesses balance proactive growth (“catching fish”) with strong operations (“cooking fish”) for sustained efficiency.Clear, data-driven systems with dashboards and accountability can transform culture and boost individual and team performance.AI adoption should be cautious, tested, and iterative, with room for learning from early-stage mistakes.Long-term resilience requires financial reserves, backup strategies, and readiness for unpredictable “Black Swan” events. "What 'Only the Paranoid Survive' means is: be aware. Do [not just walk] down the street with blinders on and not see it coming, because it can come from anywhere. A problem can come from anywhere, and so you just have to be prepared." —  John Morgan Unlock the secrets of the industry's top rainmakers with Be That Lawyer: 101 Top Rainmakers’ Secrets to Growing a Successful Law Practice. Grab your ultimate guide to building a thriving law firm now on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F78HXJHT Thank you to our Sponsors!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/ Episode References: The Black Swan by Nassim Nicholas Taleb: https://www.amazon.com/Black-Swan-Improbable-Robustness-Fragility/dp/081297381X About John Morgan: John Morgan moved to Central Florida as a teen and was forever changed when his brother Tim was paralyzed while working at Disney and mistreated by both the company and legal system, inspiring him to fight for the powerless and seek justice against big corporations. He earned his law degree from the University of Florida in 1983 and, with his wife Ultima, founded Morgan & Morgan in 1988; over 34 years, it became the nation’s largest injury law firm, recovering over $13 billion for 300,000+ clients. John authored two books — You Can’t Teach Hungry and You Can’t Teach Vision — reflecting the principles behind his success, and he’s also a political advocate and philanthropist supporting marijuana reform, minimum wage increases, and aid for abuse survivors and the hungry. Connect with John Morgan:  Website: https://www.forthepeople.com/Email: jmorgan@forthepeople.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnmorganesq/Twitter: https://x.com/johnmorganesqFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/JohnMorganESQ 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 Gerard Virga discuss:Navigating emotional complexity and client crises in family lawEvolving business development practices in solo and small firm legal settingsExpanding legal services through education, technology, and content creationManaging personal and professional balance to prevent burnout in law practice Key Takeaways:Direct, relationship-focused communication—such as sharing personal contact info—can build trust, drive referrals, and deepen client loyalty.Implementing educational tools like AI videos and podcasts helps clients understand legal processes and significantly lowers their anxiety.Developing and signing a litigation strategy plan early in the case helps align client expectations, reduces unnecessary conflict, and clarifies legal goals.Carefully qualifying clients based on emotional stability and willingness to follow advice helps reduce burnout and improve case outcomes. "If we don't alleviate that pressure early, we don't answer those questions, we don't get to the root of the problems, then it's going to fester." —  Gerard Virga Unlock the secrets of the industry's top rainmakers with Be That Lawyer: 101 Top Rainmakers’ Secrets to Growing a Successful Law Practice. Grab your ultimate guide to building a thriving law firm now on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F78HXJHT Thank you to our Sponsors!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/ Episode References: The Game Changing Attorney by Michael Mogill: https://www.amazon.com/Game-Changing-Attorney-Competition-Obvious-ebook/dp/B07JWGX3YB About Gerard Virga: Gerard Virga is a seasoned family law attorney and the founding partner of The Virga Law Firm, where he leads a team of dedicated legal professionals across offices throughout Florida. With a passion for advocating for families during life’s most challenging transitions, Gerard has built a firm known for its commitment to excellence, personalized client care, and aggressive representation in family law matters. Connect with Gerard Virga:  Website: http://www.thevirgalawfirm.com/Phone: 850-818-0236Show: The Florida Family Law Attorney Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-florida-family-law-attorney-podcast/id1799493137LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gerard-virga-006a9263/ & https://www.linkedin.com/company/thevirgalawfirmTwitter: https://x.com/TheVirgaLawFirmFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/gerard.virga.5 & https://www.facebook.com/virgalawfirm/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thevirgalawfirm/ 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 Tim Sawyer discuss:Mentorship and mastermind groups as catalysts for professional growthUniversal business models shaping success across industries including legalEmotional authenticity as a foundation for impactful branding and client engagementDiscomfort as a necessary stage in the journey toward meaningful progress Key Takeaways:Professionals who admit their blind spots and join mastermind groups grow faster by learning from shared experiences and direct peer feedback.The simple model of finding, converting, and keeping clients consistently drives growth across industries, including legal.Lawyers who lead with authenticity, such as personal storytelling or community involvement, build trust and stronger emotional resonance.Intentional preparation and embracing discomfort during networking lead to better conversations, more opportunities, and long-term business impact. "AI will not replace lawyers, but lawyers who are using AI are definitely going to have an impact on lawyers who don’t." —  Tim Sawyer Unlock the secrets of the industry's top rainmakers with Be That Lawyer: 101 Top Rainmakers’ Secrets to Growing a Successful Law Practice. Grab your ultimate guide to building a thriving law firm now on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F78HXJHT Thank you to our Sponsors!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/ Episode References: Who Moved My Cheese? by Spencer Johnson and Kenneth Blanchard: https://www.amazon.com/Who-Moved-My-Cheese-Mazing-ebook/dp/B004CR6AM4 About Tim Sawyer: Tim is a two-time Inc. 500 co-founder with two successful private equity exits, a professional speaker, and an expert in business sales and growth strategies. As EVP of Sales and an investor at FasterOutcomes, he helps law firms leverage AI-powered legal intelligence to drive efficiency and profitability. With a strong background in digital marketing, Tim has led high-performing sales teams and scaled businesses through innovative strategies. He is also the host of the Legal Keys podcast, where he explores the intersection of law, technology, and firm success. Connect with Tim Sawyer:  Website: http://www.fasteroutcomes.com/Email: tim@fasteroutcomes.comShow: Legal Keys: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/legal-keys-unlocking-time-revenue-and-results/id1791762308LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sawyertim/ & https://www.linkedin.com/company/faster-outcomes/ 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 Tyson Mutrux discuss:The importance of cultivating the right mindset for professional growthBuilding and scaling a law firm through strategic hiring and systematized operationsThe power of networking and targeted referrals in developing a legal practiceUtilizing peer groups, coaching, and mentorship as tools for continuous improvement Key Takeaways:Mindset is the number one limiting factor for lawyers—without overcoming mental barriers, no strategy will work, even with a step-by-step million-dollar blueprint.Many law firms suffer from cash flow problems because lawyers pull too much money from the business too early, preventing reinvestment and sustainable growth.Effective hiring requires a thorough, systematized process—using tools like Zoho Recruit and strategies like “topgrading” ensures better long-term talent fit and retention.Networking should be laser-focused—meeting with professionals who are in a direct position to send targeted referrals, like volume PI firms or chiropractors, yields better ROI than general networking. "You can ruin a good hire just by having bad processes or no processes." —  Tyson Mutrux Got a challenge growing your law practice? Email me at steve@fretzin.com with your toughest question, and I'll answer it live on the show—anonymously, just using your first name! Thank you to our Sponsors!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/ Episode References: Modern Wisdom Podcast by Chris Williamson: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/modern-wisdom/id1347973549About Tyson Mutrux: Tyson Mutrux is the owner and managing partner of Mutrux Firm LLC, a personal injury law firm based in St. Louis and Columbia, MO. He is also the co-founder and owner of Maximum Lawyer, a community where law firm owners connect, collaborate, and grow their firms. Connect with Tyson Mutrux:  Website: http://www.maximumlawyer.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tysonmutrux/ & https://www.linkedin.com/company/maximum-lawyerFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/maximumlawyerInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/maximumlawyer/ 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 Greg Eisenberg discuss:How law firm business models are quickly shifting due to tech and market forcesWhy branding and visibility are critical for firms of any sizeWays small and solo firms can compete with major legal playersHow legal entrepreneurship is evolving through collaboration Key Takeaways:Small law firms can remain competitive by joining collectives that centralize branding, marketing, and operational tools while allowing them to retain full ownership of their businesses.Repeating a strong personal brand message through short-form video content across the right platforms helps attorneys become top-of-mind in their niche.The most effective business development strategy combines strong referral networks and relationship-building with a smart digital advertising approach.Law firms must stop treating marketing as a standalone fix and instead adopt a unified strategy that integrates operations, technology, finance, and client experience for long-term success. "They say they don't teach business in law school. I went to business school. They don't teach business in business school—it didn't make a huge difference. There's just some stuff they can't prepare you for." —  Greg Eisenberg Got a challenge growing your law practice? Email me at steve@fretzin.com with your toughest question, and I'll answer it live on the show—anonymously, just using your first name! Thank you to our Sponsors!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/ Episode References: The GaryVee Audio Experience: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-garyvee-audio-experience/id928159684 About Greg Eisenberg: Gregory Eisenberg won the award for “Worst (or Best) Doppelgangers” thanks to his resemblance to Beaker, Shaggy, and Screech. A failed comedian and worse political candidate, he found his calling helping law firms grow. With 10+ years in marketing, he’s worked with brands like Cinnabon, Carvel, and major universities. After starting LegalEase Marketing, he realized firms needed more than leads—they needed infrastructure. That led to Ready Firms, built to help small firms scale and stay competitive. Connect with Greg Eisenberg:  Website: https://readyfirms.com/Email: greg@readyfirms.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregoryseisenberg/ & https://www.linkedin.com/company/readyfirms/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/readyfirmsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/readyfirms 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.