The Free Lawyer

In this episode, Gary Miles shares how a simple yet powerful practice, gratitude, can help lawyers reconnect with the purpose behind their work. With burnout, stress, and pressure running high in the legal profession, it’s easy to lose sight of why you became a lawyer in the first place. Gary walks through practical gratitude routines you can weave into your morning, midday, and evening to bring more clarity, peace, and fulfillment into your day. Whether you're overwhelmed, underappreciated, or just going through the motions, this episode will help you get grounded and find meaning again. Get the Values Alignment Guide ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://upbeat-trailblazer-9238.kit.com/1604bbf4cb⁠⁠⁠⁠ Would you like to learn more about Breaking Free or order your copy? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.garymiles.net/break-free⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Would you like to schedule a complimentary discovery call? You can do so here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://calendly.com/garymiles-successcoach/one-one-discovery-call⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠

In this episode of "The Free Lawyer," host Gary, a seasoned attorney with 46 years of experience, welcomes Jacob Molina, an entrepreneur and founder of Story Leads. Jacob specializes in helping legal professionals build personal brands and attract high-value clients through strategic content creation and personal branding, particularly on LinkedIn. The discussion covers Jacob's journey from digital marketing to ghostwriting for lawyers, emphasizing the importance of storytelling in the legal profession. Jacob shares insights on crafting engaging LinkedIn profiles, targeting the right audience, and leveraging AI in content creation. The episode highlights the significance of authenticity and vulnerability in connecting with clients.Jacob Molina is an entrepreneur with over 15 years of experience in digital and tech. He founded Storyleads.io to help lawyers develop personal brands and attract high-value clients through strategic content creation and personal branding. His ghostwriting services have helped lawyers increase LinkedIn engagement, secure clients through direct messages, land speaking opportunities, and gain media coverage. Jacob specializes in empowering legal professionals to stand out in a competitive market and grow their practices.Content Creation Process (00:05:49)Success Metrics (00:07:30)Identifying Compelling Stories (00:08:30)Client Success Story (00:09:50)Viral Content Impact (00:11:42)Storytelling's Role in Law (00:12:10)Balancing Vulnerability and Professionalism (00:14:44)Using AI in Content Creation (00:15:51)Generating Quality Leads (00:17:24)Building Trust Through Storytelling (00:18:09)Content Approval Process (00:19:08)Prospecting on LinkedIn (00:20:11)Target Audience Identification (00:20:51)Engaging Business Owners (00:21:45)Metrics for LinkedIn Success (00:23:32)Profile Visits as Indicators (00:24:10)Efficient Content Creation (00:25:44)Future of LinkedIn Marketing (00:26:36)Unique Storytelling in Content (00:27:54)Getting Started on LinkedIn (00:28:32)Engagement through Comments (00:29:42)Would you like to learn more about Breaking Free or order your copy? https://www.garymiles.net/break-free Would you like to schedule a complimentary discovery call? You can do so here: https://calendly.com/garymiles-successcoach/one-one-discovery-call

In this episode of The Free Lawyer, Gary Miles explores the hidden cost of over-control in a legal career and how letting go can actually lead to greater success. Drawing on 45 years of courtroom experience, Gary shares real stories and practical strategies for reducing stress and reclaiming clarity through mindful focus. You’ll learn how to master what you can control, reframe setbacks, and let go of what drains your energy. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed or simply want to elevate your practice, this episode offers tools to thrive with less stress and more impact.Get the Values Alignment Guide ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://upbeat-trailblazer-9238.kit.com/1604bbf4cb⁠⁠⁠⁠ Would you like to learn more about Breaking Free or order your copy? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.garymiles.net/break-free⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Would you like to schedule a complimentary discovery call? You can do so here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://calendly.com/garymiles-successcoach/one-one-discovery-call⁠⁠

In this insightful episode of The Free Lawyer, host Gary Miles welcomes Lawrence Eichen, a New Jersey attorney, speaker, and consultant specializing in imposter syndrome. Lawrence shares his personal journey with imposter syndrome as a former programmer who transitioned to law, offering valuable strategies to help lawyers identify and overcome this common challenge that affects even the most accomplished legal professionals.Key Topics Covered: Definition of imposter syndrome and why it's particularly prevalent in the legal profession The connection between perfectionism and imposter syndrome How imposter syndrome limits lawyers' potential and affects performance in negotiations and trials Practical strategies for managing and overcoming imposter syndrome Why imposter syndrome often doesn't diminish with experience or success - and may actually intensifyTakeaways for Lawyers: Reframe negative self-talk: Instead of "fake it till you make it," say "I'll handle it" Document achievements to reference during moments of self-doubt Don't suffer in silence - share your feelings with trusted colleagues Asking for help is a sign of maturity, not incompetence Practice self-compassion while working through imposter syndromeLawrence D. Eichen, Esq. is an attorney, speaker, and consultant. As an attorney, Mr. Eichen’s experience includes litigating a wide variety of civil and criminal matters.Additionally, he has served for over 20 years as a mediator for the Dispute Resolution Program in Morris County, NJ. He has litigated and negotiated well over 1,000 cases during his 30-year career.As a speaker, Mr. Eichen delivers engaging presentations to associations, organizations, and educational institutions on Mastering the Art of Negotiation; Defeating Imposter Syndrome; and Mastering the Art of Powerful Presentations.As a consultant, he provides advanced training to businesses and organizations, and private coaching to professionals, executives, and entrepreneurs. Mr. Eichen is a certified Rethinking Impostor SyndromeTM coach.He is also the owner of FirstClassCLE.com, an approved provider of Continuing Legal Education courses by the New Jersey Supreme Court Board on Continuing Legal Education. He provides CLE courses to attorneys on negotiation and other areas of the law.Would you like to learn more about Breaking Free or order your copy? https://www.garymiles.net/break-free Would you like to schedule a complimentary discovery call? You can do so here: https://calendly.com/garymiles-successcoach/one-one-discovery-call

Embracing change, lawyer adaptability, resilience, and change management are essential for thriving in today's fast-evolving legal profession. In this episode, Gary Miles reveals powerful strategies that transform change from a source of stress into a competitive advantage. Listen for practical methods to overcome resistance, enhance flexibility, and future-proof your law practice.Get the Values Alignment Guide ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://upbeat-trailblazer-9238.kit.com/1604bbf4cb⁠⁠⁠⁠ Would you like to learn more about Breaking Free or order your copy? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.garymiles.net/break-free⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Would you like to schedule a complimentary discovery call? You can do so here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://calendly.com/garymiles-successcoach/one-one-discovery-call⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠

In this episode of the Free Lawyer Podcast, the host welcomes Tim Sawyer, Executive Vice President of Sales at Faster Outcomes, to discuss the transformative potential of AI in the legal industry. Tim shares insights into how AI can improve law firm operations by automating tasks like document generation and client communication. He addresses common misconceptions about AI, emphasizing its role in enhancing, not replacing, legal professionals. Tim also highlights the importance of leveraging existing data and intellectual property within law firms to optimize outcomes. The episode underscores AI's potential to increase efficiency, client satisfaction, and overall profitability for law firmTim Sawyer is the EVP of Sales at Faster Outcomes, an AI-powered legal technology company transforming how law firms operate. A seasoned entrepreneur, Tim is a two-time Inc. 500 co-founder, having built and scaled two companies to successful private equity exits. With a passion for innovation and business growth, he thrives on helping lawyers leverage AI to increase efficiency, profitability, and client satisfaction. Tim is deeply connected to the legal community and enjoys working alongside attorneys to drive meaningful change in the profession.Transforming Traditional Law Firms (00:04:43)Using Handwritten Notes in AI (00:08:00)Improving Client Communication (00:09:05)Human Oversight in AI Processes (00:11:02)Learning Curve for Lawyers (00:12:35)AI's Role in Lawyer's Freedom (00:15:06)Ethical Considerations of AI (00:18:13)Securing Confidential Information (00:20:25)Common Misconceptions about AI (00:22:06)Understanding AI Accuracy (00:22:14)Trusting AI in Legal Practice (00:23:09)Utilizing Existing Data for AI (00:24:02)Succession Planning in Law Firms (00:25:09)Starting Small with AI Integration (00:25:50)Transformative AI Use Cases (00:28:07)Playing with Open Source AI (00:31:57)Would you like to learn more about Breaking Free or order your copy? https://www.garymiles.net/break-free Would you like to schedule a complimentary discovery call? You can do so here: https://calendly.com/garymiles-successcoach/one-one-discovery-call

Are you relying on a growth mindset to handle the pressures of legal practice? As lawyers, we face high stress, burnout, and setbacks, But the key to long-term success isn’t just “thinking positively” or believing in personal growth. We need a better strategy. This episode covers seven game-changing strategies that go beyond the growth mindset to help you bounce back from failures, manage stress, and build true resilience in your legal career. Listen/ watch for:Shift your perspective from self-pity to problem-solvingReframe setbacks into stepping stones for successUse the 3R’s Strategy to rebuild client trust after a tough lossTake small, confidence-building actions to regain momentumCreate a support network that strengthens your resilienceImplement stress management techniques that actually workSet boundaries and prevent lawyer burnoutToo many lawyers let setbacks define them. The most successful ones transform failure into their greatest asset. Get the Values Alignment Guide⁠⁠⁠⁠https://upbeat-trailblazer-9238.kit.com/1604bbf4cb⁠⁠⁠⁠Would you like to learn more about Breaking Free or order your copy? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.garymiles.net/break-free⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Would you like to schedule a complimentary discovery call? You can do so here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://calendly.com/garymiles-successcoach/one-one-discovery-call⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠

In this episode of "The Free Lawyer," host Gary converses with Emil Abedian, a CPA specializing in accounting and tax services for solo and small law firms. Emil shares his journey from Sweden to California and emphasizes the importance of understanding financial management in legal practices. He discusses common financial challenges, such as cash flow issues and inefficient billing practices, and offers solutions like regular financial reviews and prompt invoicing. Emil also highlights the significance of viewing a law practice as a business, embracing technology, and engaging in effective tax planning to ensure sustainable growth and success.Emil Abedian is the CEO and Founder of Counsel CPAs, an accounting firm dedicated exclusively to supporting solo and small law firms across the United States. With 20 years of experience, beginning in Sweden and advancing in Los Angeles, Emil has gained an in-depth understanding of the distinct financial challenges that law firms face—challenges that extend beyond conventional accounting solutions. Emil identified a gap in the industry early on, realizing that many law firms were missing out on valuable billable hours and strategic financial guidance due to traditional compliance-only accounting approaches. He established Counsel CPAs to fill that gap, offering not just tax services but a proactive, year-round advisory model tailored specifically to the law firm sector.Counsel CPAs is designed to relieve law firm owners of the financial burdens that can stifle growth and profitability. Emil and his team provide comprehensive services, including tax planning, CFO-level financial guidance, and operational insights, enabling their clients to focus on delivering legal expertise rather than managing financial complexities. Emil’s approach emphasizes the role of the CPA as a strategic business ally, committed to understanding each client’s unique goals and partnering with them to achieve sustainable success. This collaborative, hands-on model underscores Emil’s dedication to fostering long-term client relationships and delivering value that extends beyond annual tax returns.Mindset Shift for Lawyers (00:04:13)Common Financial Pitfalls (00:05:31)Billing Practices (00:07:48)Engagement with Clients (00:08:56)Breaking the Overwhelm (00:09:58)Key Financial Metrics (00:11:06)Partner-Like Relationship (00:12:42)Financial Blind Spots (00:13:58)Improving Cash Flow Systems (00:16:22)Financial Habits of Successful Firms (00:17:48)Starting a Law Practice (00:19:15)Understanding Investment in Systems (00:20:52)Seeing Your Firm as a Business (00:21:55)The Importance of Investing (00:22:14)Technology and Automation Benefits (00:24:45)Utilizing Practice Management Software (00:25:06)Would you like to learn more about Breaking Free or order your copy? https://www.garymiles.net/break-free Would you like to schedule a complimentary discovery call? You can do so here: https://calendly.com/garymiles-successcoach/one-one-discovery-call

Lawyer burnout is real, and the pressure of professional expectations can feel overwhelming. But what if the key to success is not working harder, but working smarter? In this episode, Gary Miles shares how to improve decision-making skills, manage client relationships effectively, and set boundaries to build a sustainable, fulfilling legal career.Listen for:Why burnout is so common in the legal fieldHow to balance client relationship management without sacrificing your well-beingStrategies to improve decision-making skills under pressureThe power of patience in a high-stakes careerGet the Values Alignment Guide⁠⁠⁠https://upbeat-trailblazer-9238.kit.com/1604bbf4cb⁠⁠⁠Would you like to learn more about Breaking Free or order your copy? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.garymiles.net/break-free⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Would you like to schedule a complimentary discovery call? You can do so here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://calendly.com/garymiles-successcoach/one-one-discovery-call⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠

In this episode of "The Free Lawyer," host Gary converses with Sonal Chandler, founder and CEO of Minerva Consulting, about the critical importance of cybersecurity for small to mid-sized law firms. They discuss common vulnerabilities such as weak passwords and lack of multi-factor authentication, emphasizing the need for a cultural shift towards security awareness. Sonal provides practical steps for protecting client data and integrating AI into legal practices. The episode underscores the significance of training, risk management, and fostering a supportive environment for cybersecurity initiatives, aiming to help law firms navigate the evolving digital landscape confidently.Sonal Chandler is the Founder and CEO of Minerva Consulting, a WBENC-certified consulting firm that helps small to mid-sized organizations with: Cyber risk management and compliance AI readiness & integrationThrough Minerva Consulting, Sonal provides fractional vCISO services, including risk assessments, information security program development, and compliance readiness. The firm also conducts Intro to AI workshops and helps businesses embrace AI to drive efficiency and innovation.With experience spanning Fortune 500 companies, boutique consulting firms, and startups, Sonal takes a business-focused approach to cybersecurity and AI, ensuring organizations can implement these technologies without unnecessary complexity.Beyond her consulting work, she hosts Minerva Meets, a podcast exploring the intersection of business, cybersecurity, and AI, and shares insights through her blog, Mind Spark.Cybersecurity Vulnerabilities in Law Firms (00:01:14)Creating a Culture of Security Awareness (00:03:03)Practical Steps for Protecting Client Data (00:04:41)Importance of Cybersecurity (00:05:45)Building Information Security Programs (00:06:53)Challenges of Digital Transformation (00:08:18)Transforming a Law Firm's Cybersecurity Approach (00:10:43)Addressing Remote Work Security Challenges (00:15:53)Integrating AI into Law Practices (00:17:32)Balancing Efficiency and Ethical Obligations (00:20:27)Creating a Culture of Cybersecurity Awareness (00:22:04)Advice for Overwhelmed Lawyers (00:23:48)Setting Clear Objectives (00:24:50)Choosing the Right Solutions (00:25:47)First Steps in Cybersecurity (00:26:06)Would you like to learn more about Breaking Free or order your copy? https://www.garymiles.net/break-free Would you like to schedule a complimentary discovery call? You can do so here: https://calendly.com/garymiles-successcoach/one-one-discovery-call