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Cyberattacks against law firms are exploding, and most firms are far less protected than they think. In this episode, you’ll learn how to close the biggest security gaps, modernize your tech, and treat IT as a growth engine instead of a necessary evil.   In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Frank Stephens discuss: Technical debt and outdated systems in law firms Cybersecurity attack vectors and real-world threats Cloud, backups, and the myth of “it’s secure because it’s in the cloud” Practical protections: MFA, training, SOCs, and remote access Evaluating vendors, cutting tech waste, and learning to delegate   Key Takeaways: Many law firms operate with significant technical debt and outdated workflows, which limit accessibility, flexibility, and security. A “we have a firewall and the cloud” mindset breeds dangerous false confidence; modern firms need layered protections across endpoints, email, cloud, and user behavior. Phishing remains the dominant entry point for breaches, making ongoing security awareness training just as critical as any software tool. Cloud platforms do not automatically guarantee robust backups or security, so firms must take ownership of their data retention, MFA, and backup strategies. Treating IT partners as strategic advisors, reviewing licenses, roadmapping upgrades, and delegating implementation, can both reduce risk and unlock significant cost savings and scalability.   "If you're don't have MFA on all your cloud solutions, you might as well just leave the doors open, and you'd be surprised at how many people don't put that in place." —  Frank Stephens   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/ Lawyer.com: https://www.lawyer.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 Frank Stephens: Frank Stephens founded Computing Technology Solutions (CTS) in 2001 with the idea that small and mid-sized businesses deserve the same IT proactive support, cybersecurity, and strategies that Fortune 500 organizations receive. Before starting CTS, Frank worked at several enterprise businesses such as Abbott, AT&T, CNA Insurance, and Microsoft. He is passionate about giving back to the community and has served on several boards, including the Salvation Army. Frank is married with three children, and his hobbies include boating, international travel, outdoor activities with his family, and coaching his sons’ teams.   Connect with Frank Stephens: Website: https://www.onlinects.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/frankstephens/   Connect with Steve Fretzin: LinkedIn: Steve Fretzin Twitter: @stevefretzin Instagram: @fretzinsteve Facebook: Fretzin, Inc. Website: Fretzin.com Email: [email protected] Book: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more! YouTube: Steve Fretzin Call Steve directly at 847-602-6911   Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

How can lawyers build genuine trust, stand out through strategic thought leadership, and future‑proof their practices with value-based fees and AI—all without burning out on marketing? Learn in this episode how you can move from winging it to working with a clear, repeatable plan for visibility, credibility, and consistent growth.   In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Susan Guthrie discuss: Strategic planning vs. “winging it” in legal careers Building trust and brand through targeted thought leadership Consistency and content repurposing across platforms Flat-fee and value-based billing as trust builders Using AI tools for marketing, planning, and efficiency   Key Takeaways: Trust is the “golden thread” that should run through every interaction, from networking to content creation, and it must often be rebuilt when a lawyer shifts roles or practice areas. Thought leadership only works when it’s strategic—aimed at the right decision-makers, on the right platforms, with a clear message about what you do and who you help. Consistency in showing up, even on just one or two platforms, beats a scattered “spaghetti on the wall” approach to marketing every time. Moving from hourly billing to flat-fee or value-based models can dramatically increase client trust by reducing uncertainty and aligning incentives. AI can act as a behind‑the‑scenes collaborator for planning, branding, content, and even websites, helping lawyers amplify their expertise without compromising ethics.   "Simplicity actually is much more effective as long as what you're doing is consistent." — Susan Guthrie   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/ Lawyer.com: https://www.lawyer.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 Susan Guthrie: Susan Guthrie is a nationally recognized family law attorney, mediator, and legal tech innovator with over 30 years of experience helping individuals navigate divorce and family transitions. Known as “The Divorce Coach,” she focuses on empowering clients through education, mediation, and more peaceful, cost-effective alternatives to litigation. Susan is the host of the award-winning Divorce & Beyond podcast and a leading voice in the intersection of family law and technology. She is a strong advocate for online dispute resolution and innovative legal solutions that make legal services more accessible and client-centered. In addition to her work with clients, Susan is a speaker, trainer, and consultant, helping legal professionals modernize their practices and better serve today’s evolving needs.   Connect with Susan Guthrie:   Website: https://susaneguthrie.com/home Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/susaneguthrie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susaneguthrie/ Twitter: https://www.x.com/susan4biz   Connect with Steve Fretzin: LinkedIn: Steve Fretzin Twitter: @stevefretzin Instagram: @fretzinsteve Facebook: Fretzin, Inc. Website: Fretzin.com Email: [email protected] Book: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more! YouTube: Steve Fretzin Call Steve directly at 847-602-6911   Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

Want to know how top law firms scale without losing culture or trust? Steve Fretzin sits down with the founders of Omega Law Group to reveal the systems, partnerships, and strategies that turn strong teams into high-performing firms.   In this episode, Steve Fretzin, Shahab Mossavar-Rahmani, Robin Saghian, and Edwin Saghian discuss: Measuring performance and managing by data Forming and sustaining a strong law firm partnership Delegation of duties and staying in your lane Building culture, trust, and low-turnover teams Systems, structure, and mistakes made while scaling   Key Takeaways: You can’t effectively manage or grow a firm if you’re not rigorously measuring performance and outcomes. Shared values, trust, and low ego are the real foundations that allow partnerships to survive disagreement and big decisions. Delegating duties based on strengths—and then staying in your lane—unlocks scale in a way that “doing everything yourself” never can. A strong culture is intentional: clear expectations, honest feedback, and genuine investment in employees dramatically reduce turnover. Many growth bottlenecks come from hanging onto tasks too long; cutting your losses on mis-hires and outdated processes is essential.   "Our philosophy is, if you take care of the people that work with you, they'll take care of the clients." —  Shahab Mossavar-Rahmani   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! LEX Reception: https://www.lexreception.com/ Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/ Lawyer.com: https://www.lawyer.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 Omega Law Group: Shahab Mossavar-Rahmani – Shahab is a founding partner at Omega Law Group, specializing in personal injury law. He brings extensive courtroom experience from his time as a deputy public defender in Orange County and has earned recognition from Super Lawyers and the National Trial Lawyers Top 100 for his litigation expertise. Robin Saghian – Robin co-founded Omega Law Group and focuses on personal injury and employment law. Known for his strong advocacy and client-centered approach, he has built a reputation for skillful litigation and successfully representing clients in complex civil cases. Edwin Saghian – Edwin is a founding partner at Omega Law Group, concentrating on personal injury cases, including car accidents, wrongful death, and class actions. He is recognized for his commitment to clients and hands-on courtroom experience, helping individuals secure favorable outcomes in challenging litigation.   Connect with Omega Law Group:  Website: https://www.omegalaw.com/   Connect with Steve Fretzin: LinkedIn: Steve Fretzin Twitter: @stevefretzin Instagram: @fretzinsteve Facebook: Fretzin, Inc. Website: Fretzin.com Email: [email protected] Book: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more! YouTube: Steve Fretzin Call 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 Sarah Tetlow discuss: Designing a legal career around fulfillment, not just ambition Managing time, attention, and workload with intentional systems Reframing legal work through project management thinking Reducing overwhelm by structuring email, tasks, and daily routines   Key Takeaways: Success without alignment leads to quiet dissatisfaction. Steve shares how chasing scale made him miserable, while simplifying his practice brought clarity and joy. Sarah echoes this by leaving a “fine” but unfulfilling role to build something more meaningful. Lawyers must think like project managers, not reactive order-takers. There will always be more work than fits in a day, so the goal is intentional prioritization. Taking a high-level view helps you focus on what truly matters now and plan ahead. Most emergencies are not real; they’re the result of poor systems and expectations. Defining true urgency, setting communication boundaries, and using your team to filter interruptions allows you to stay focused on high-value work. Strong systems create clarity and control, especially with email and tasks. Treat your inbox as triage, track commitments outside your calendar, and use a simple shutdown routine to prioritize tomorrow. Small habits like this reduce stress and improve consistency.   "Without a system, your inbox becomes a distraction instead of a tool." —  Sarah Tetlow   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/   Big news for ambitious attorneys: on April 15, we’re launching a new resource to help you be confident, organized, and a skilled Rainmaker. This is the tool I use to help my clients grow every year—don’t miss it, you’ll want to check it out as soon as it’s live.   Thank you to our Sponsor! Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/ Lawyer.com: https://www.lawyer.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 Sarah Tetlow: Sarah Tetlow is a productivity consultant, trainer, and speaker who helps attorneys and busy professionals improve efficiency, reduce stress, and increase focus and revenue. Drawing from her background in law firms, she provides personalized strategies through consulting, workshops, and training that help clients manage their time with a proactive, structured approach. She is also the creator of the ARTT® Email Productivity system, which has helped hundreds of professionals take control of their inbox, reduce distractions, and build better communication habits that lead to stronger responsiveness and results.   Connect with Sarah Tetlow:   Website: https://www.firm-focus.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/firm-focus-llc/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Firm-Focus-2133715496717831/   Connect with Steve Fretzin: LinkedIn: Steve Fretzin Twitter: @stevefretzin Instagram: @fretzinsteve Facebook: Fretzin, Inc. Website: Fretzin.com Email: [email protected] Book: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more! YouTube: Steve Fretzin Call 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 Reid Zeising discuss: Letting experts elevate your business Streamlining operations to unlock scale Embracing AI as a force multiplier Releasing control and focusing on what matters most   Key Takeaways: You don’t need to master every discipline to build something great. Real growth comes from casting vision, staying close to the customer, and surrounding yourself with people who are truly exceptional in their craft. Efficiency is built through intentional systems like consolidating updates, centralizing records, leveraging provider networks, and simplifying lien resolution. These practical shifts remove bottlenecks and free up significant time for your team. AI is not a replacement for lawyers but a tool that removes redundancy and enhances decision-making. Those who integrate it into their workflows gain speed, insight, and a clear advantage over those who resist it. The biggest barrier to scaling is often the inability to let go. Defining your highest-value roles and delegating the rest allows you to operate where you are most impactful while others execute at a higher level.   "AI is not going to replace humans. AI is just replacing humans unwilling to utilize AI." —  Reid Zeising   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/   Big news for ambitious attorneys: on April 15, we’re launching a new resource to help you be confident, organized, and a skilled Rainmaker. This is the tool I use to help my clients grow every year—don’t miss it, you’ll want to check it out as soon as it’s live.   Thank you to our Sponsor! Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/ Lawyer.com: https://www.lawyer.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 Reid Zeising: Reid Zeising is the Founder and CEO of Gain Servicing, where he helps plaintiff personal injury law firms improve efficiency and outcomes through streamlined revenue cycle management and operational strategy. With a background in finance and investment banking, he brings a data-driven perspective to scaling businesses, specializing in areas such as lien resolution, medical record consolidation, and workflow optimization. Reid is known for his emphasis on delegation, hiring top-tier talent, and focusing leadership on high-value activities like strategy and client relationships. He is also an advocate for the practical use of AI in legal operations, viewing it as a tool to eliminate bottlenecks while preserving the essential role of human judgment and trust in legal representation.   Connect with Reid Zeising:  Website: https://gainservicing.com/   Connect with Steve Fretzin: LinkedIn: Steve Fretzin Twitter: @stevefretzin Instagram: @fretzinsteve Facebook: Fretzin, Inc. Website: Fretzin.com Email: [email protected] Book: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more! YouTube: Steve Fretzin Call 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 Danny Decker discuss: Putting the client at the center Building your brand around real client needs Turning client questions into content Taking action and refining along the way   Key Takeaways: Strong legal marketing shifts the spotlight away from the lawyer and toward the client’s problems, emotions, and desired outcomes. Messaging that builds trust acknowledges what clients are going through and offers a clear, supportive path forward. Credentials and accolades matter less than demonstrating empathy and relevance. The most effective personal brands show clients that you understand their situation and can guide them from uncertainty to resolution. The questions asked in consultations are the same ones potential clients are searching online and through AI. Transforming these into blogs, videos, and posts builds visibility, authority, and trust over time. Progress in marketing comes from execution, not perfection. Moving quickly, learning from mistakes, and adjusting direction creates far more momentum than waiting for the perfect strategy.   "Your customers should be the hero of your marketing." —  Danny Decker   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/ Lawyer.com: https://www.lawyer.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 Danny Decker: Danny Decker is Partner & Cofounder of Spotlight Marketing & Branding. In addition to building his team, he frequently speaks at events and workshops and hosts multiple podcasts on business and marketing. His books, The Automatic Marketing Machine and Marketing Simplified, are available on Amazon. Danny lives in Huntersville, North Carolina, with his wife & their two kids.   Connect with Danny Decker:   Website: https://spotlightbranding.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danieljdecker/   Connect with Steve Fretzin: LinkedIn: Steve Fretzin Twitter: @stevefretzin Instagram: @fretzinsteve Facebook: Fretzin, Inc. Website: Fretzin.com Email: [email protected] Book: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more! YouTube: Steve Fretzin Call 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 Brian LaCien discuss: Building systems that create consistency Growing your practice through relationships Learning through mentorship and mistakes Knowing when to push and when to stop   Key Takeaways: Every case is different, but your process should not be. Strong systems like checklists and workflows help you stay organized and reliable, especially in long and complex litigation. The best cases come from trust, not volume marketing. Building genuine relationships and staying visible in the legal community drives consistent referrals and long-term growth. Becoming a great trial lawyer requires experience, guidance, and room to fail. The right mentors and real courtroom reps shape your skill far more than theory alone. One extra question can hurt your case. Great lawyers understand timing, knowing when they’ve made their point and having the discipline to stop.   "Every case is different, but how you approach it should be really similar, so that you may not remember doing something six months ago, but you know you did it because that's the way you do things." —  Brian LaCien   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/ Lawyer.com: https://www.lawyer.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 LaCien: Brian LaCien is a trial lawyer and co-founder of Smith LaCien LLP, where he represents individuals in complex personal injury and wrongful death cases. With nearly two decades of experience, he has built a reputation for handling high-stakes litigation with a disciplined, detail-oriented approach rooted in strong case strategy and preparation. Before co-founding his firm, Brian spent 17 years at a leading plaintiff trial firm, where he developed his skills under experienced litigators and gained extensive courtroom and deposition experience. He is committed to the civil justice system as a way to hold powerful institutions accountable and advocates for his clients with both precision and persistence.   Connect with Brian LaCien:   Website: https://www.smithlacien.com/   Connect with Steve Fretzin: LinkedIn: Steve Fretzin Twitter: @stevefretzin Instagram: @fretzinsteve Facebook: Fretzin, Inc. Website: Fretzin.com Email: [email protected] Book: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more! YouTube: Steve Fretzin Call 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 Megan Hargroder discuss: Building trust over chasing tactics Positioning with clarity and specificity Showing authenticity to attract the right clients Using story and proof to strengthen credibility   Key Takeaways: Modern marketing is shifting away from quick SEO tricks toward real human engagement. When people genuinely connect with your content and stay on your site, it signals trust. That trust is what drives visibility and long-term growth. Trying to speak to everyone weakens your authority. Focusing on a clear niche helps people understand what you do and see you as the go-to expert. Repeating one core message consistently builds recognition and trust. Relatable language, personality, and even humor make you memorable. The goal is not to impress peers but to connect with people. When you show who you really are, you naturally draw in the right clients and filter out the wrong ones. Your bio and reviews are powerful trust builders when done right. Sharing why you do what you do and highlighting specific results helps people see themselves in your story. Detailed proof builds confidence far more than generic praise.   "You want to be turning the right people on, and you want to be turning the wrong people off at all times." —  Megan Hargroder   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/ Lawyer.com: https://www.lawyer.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 Megan Hargroder: Megan Hargroder is a legal marketing strategist and entrepreneur known for helping law firms grow through authentic, relationship-driven marketing. As the founder of Legends Legal Marketing, she specializes in building systems that connect attorneys with referral partners and drive consistent business development. With a background in both marketing and operations, Megan brings a practical, results-focused approach to scaling professional services. She is passionate about mentorship, community building, and helping lawyers create sustainable growth by aligning strategy, systems, and personal strengths.   Connect with Megan Hargroder:  Website:  https://heyitsmegan.com/ , https://legendslegalmarketing.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heyitsmegan/   Connect with Steve Fretzin: LinkedIn: Steve Fretzin Twitter: @stevefretzin Instagram: @fretzinsteve Facebook: Fretzin, Inc. Website: Fretzin.com Email: [email protected] Book: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more! YouTube: Steve Fretzin Call 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 Armando Leduc discuss: Building authority through podcasting Overcoming mindset barriers Leveraging content strategically Maintaining consistency for compounding impact   Key Takeaways: Hosting a weekly podcast allows lawyers to create a systematic referral network, strengthen relationships with industry partners, and position themselves as trusted authorities over time. Addressing fear, self-doubt, and perceived market saturation helps attorneys gain confidence on camera and embrace personal branding as a growth tool. Repurposing podcast recordings into articles, social posts, and even books multiplies visibility and ensures each interview provides long-term business development value. Persistently producing niche-focused content over months and years compounds authority, relationships, and opportunities, turning podcasting into a long-term growth engine.   "If you're an estate planning attorney, start a podcast... but number two, bring in financial advisors and family lawyers and wealth advisors and CPAs and people that are in the space that can refer you business." —  Armando Leduc    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/ Lawyer.com: https://www.lawyer.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 Armando Leduc: Armando Leduc is the CEO of Leduc Entertainment, a social media management company. Armando is a multifaceted and driven artist who has carved a niche for himself in the entertainment sector through determination, hard work, and an innate gift for storytelling. With a growing list of achievements and a steadfast commitment to his craft, Armando continually strives for excellence, leaving audiences eagerly anticipating his next creative endeavor.   Connect with Armando Leduc:   Website: https://www.leducentertainment.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/leducentertainment Twitter: https://twitter.com/armandoleduc Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leducentertainment/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQ0BozS4ZM-1TqOcwSl2l0Q LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/armando-leduc-16ba4940   Connect with Steve Fretzin: LinkedIn: Steve Fretzin Twitter: @stevefretzin Instagram: @fretzinsteve Facebook: Fretzin, Inc. Website: Fretzin.com Email: [email protected] Book: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more! YouTube: Steve Fretzin Call 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 Brian Hansen discuss: Planning before marketing Specializing in impact Prioritizing practical channels Using AI and content wisely   Key Takeaways: Lawyers should focus on strategy, clear goals, and growth plans before jumping into ads or SEO. Thinking like a business owner prevents reactive, scattered efforts. Narrowing focus to niches ensures higher-quality results and avoids mediocrity. Saying no to misaligned work preserves reputation and effectiveness. Local Service Ads, SEO fundamentals, Maps visibility, and strong reviews drive results. Smaller firms may rely more on networking, referrals, and credibility than on heavy SEO spend. AI accelerates work, but expertise remains critical. Authentic, experience-based content on platforms clients actually use delivers lasting value.   "We only want to do what we're really good at… don’t do anything that you're going to do with a C plus or a B minus." —  Brian Hansen   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/ Lawyer.com: https://www.lawyer.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 Hansen: Brian Hansen is the founder and CEO of Rocket Pilots, a San Diego-based digital marketing agency specializing in helping law firms grow through targeted SEO, Local Service Ads, and paid media strategies. Since launching the agency in 2016, Brian has focused on delivering measurable results, ethical practices, and client-centered strategies that prioritize real business outcomes over vanity metrics. With expertise in niche marketing, strategy-driven campaigns, and consultative client relationships, he helps law firms navigate competitive markets and achieve sustainable growth while sharing insights on legal marketing and technology trends with the professional community.   Connect with Brian Hansen:   Website: https://rocketpilots.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianghansen/   Connect with Steve Fretzin: LinkedIn: Steve Fretzin Twitter: @stevefretzin Instagram: @fretzinsteve Facebook: Fretzin, Inc. Website: Fretzin.com Email: [email protected] Book: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more! YouTube: Steve Fretzin Call 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 Owili Eison discuss: Thinking like an intrapreneur, not just an employee Balancing legal skill with business development Networking intentionally to build referral pipelines Using technology and AI to stay competitive   Key Takeaways: Lawyers who rely entirely on their firm for work risk having little control over their future. Building a personal brand, developing referral relationships, and generating your own clients creates long-term career security and flexibility. A successful legal career has two sides: practicing the law and building the firm. Lawyers who focus only on technical legal work often miss the larger opportunity, since referral relationships and originations frequently generate the greatest long-term value. Effective networking is targeted, not random. By focusing on lawyers in complementary practice areas and building genuine, reciprocal relationships, attorneys can create steady referral partnerships that grow over time. Modern legal practice increasingly relies on tools that improve efficiency and insight. Lawyers who adopt technologies like AI for document review, intake summaries, and research can work faster, scale their impact, and stay ahead in a rapidly changing profession.   "There’s two aspects to our business and the law operation. There’s the law and the firm… You need to focus on both and have a holistic approach to the business and practice of law, otherwise I think you’re going to find yourself in a tough position.” —  Owili Eison   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/ Lawyer.com: https://www.lawyer.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 Owili Eison: Owili K. Eison is a Los Angeles-based personal injury attorney and Partner at BD&J, where he focuses on catastrophic injury litigation. He also supervises a team of 20 associates and staff, helping train the next generation of trial lawyers to advocate for those harmed by negligence. A graduate of the University of Southern California and Loyola Law School, Los Angeles, Owili participated in Loyola’s Trial Advocacy Program and later completed both the CAALA Plaintiff’s Trial Academy and the Jack Daniels ABOTA Trial Academy. Owili was inspired to pursue personal injury law after suffering serious injuries when he was struck by a negligent driver in a crosswalk. Since then, he has handled thousands of cases involving automobile accidents, wrongful death, premises liability, and medical malpractice. In just over nine years at BD&J, he has recovered more than $500 million for his clients and built a reputation as a tenacious yet pragmatic advocate.   Connect with Owili Eison:   Website: https://www.bdj.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/owilieison   Connect with Steve Fretzin: LinkedIn: Steve Fretzin Twitter: @stevefretzin Instagram: @fretzinsteve Facebook: Fretzin, Inc. Website: Fretzin.com Email: [email protected] Book: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more! YouTube: Steve Fretzin Call 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 Colleen Young discuss: Building trust through consistent visibility Growing through relationships, referrals, and the right fit Aligning marketing and intake to convert the right clients Using time and resources more strategically   Key Takeaways: Consistent marketing builds recognition and credibility over time. Because legal services are intangible and high-stakes, potential clients rely less on impulse and more on trust, familiarity, and a sense that the lawyer understands their needs. Many successful firms grow through community presence and strong referral networks rather than pure advertising. The most sustainable practices are built around clients, partners, and team members who are the right cultural and professional fit. Marketing should nurture and educate prospects before they ever contact the firm. Intake then acts as a strategic filter, qualifying leads and converting the right, profitable matters rather than simply accepting every potential case. Lawyers should focus on legal expertise and relationship-building rather than trying to execute every marketing task themselves. Delegating content production, intake, and administrative work allows firms to maintain consistent marketing while using time and budget more effectively.   "Marketing should be teeing up, not cold leads, but nurtured leads for the sales team." —  Colleen Young   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/ Lawyer.com: https://www.lawyer.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 Colleen Young: Colleen Young is the Chief Marketing Officer at Get Staffed Up, where she helps law firms grow through smarter marketing, stronger intake systems, and strategic delegation. With more than 25 years of experience across professional services and B2B industries, she specializes in helping attorneys turn marketing into real client relationships by focusing on trust, community presence, and well-nurtured leads. At Get Staffed Up, Colleen also advocates for using virtual assistants and remote teams so lawyers can spend less time on administrative work and more time practicing law and building meaningful client connections.   Connect with Colleen Young:   Website: https://getstaffedup.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/colleen-young-marketing/   Connect with Steve Fretzin: LinkedIn: Steve Fretzin Twitter: @stevefretzin Instagram: @fretzinsteve Facebook: Fretzin, Inc. Website: Fretzin.com Email: [email protected] Book: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more! YouTube: Steve Fretzin Call 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 Robert Hartmann discuss: Taking ownership of the business of law Building rainmaking skills through empathy and responsiveness Preparing for independence before you need it Networking strategically, not randomly   Key Takeaways: Law school prepares lawyers for doctrine, not for marketing, leadership, or running a practice. Lawyers must take responsibility for learning how to generate work and build a book of business. The safest career path is being able to stand on your own if circumstances change. Empathy, honesty, and fast communication are powerful differentiators in a crowded market. Treating clients and referral sources with care strengthens reputation and repeat business. Soft skills practiced early, especially as an associate, lay the foundation for becoming a future Rainmaker. Every lawyer should be financially and operationally ready to go solo if necessary. That includes savings, strong professional relationships, and clarity around overhead and support systems. Leaving firms well and preserving bridges can turn former employers into future referral sources. Effective networking focuses on finding a small group of true strategic partners, not collecting business cards. Let others speak first, listen well, and align your value to their needs. Consistent systems and intentional follow-through turn relationships into long-term referral engines.   "Everybody has the ability with a few simple soft skills to become a good Rainmaker." —  Robert Hartmann   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/ Lawyer.com: https://www.lawyer.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 Robert Hartmann: Robert Hartmann is the founder of Hartmann Law Firm and an advocate for helping attorneys develop the soft skills needed to build successful legal careers. With years of experience practicing law and running a boutique firm, Robert emphasizes the importance of networking, relationship-building, and business development, skills often overlooked in traditional legal education. Through his work, he encourages lawyers to take ownership of their careers by building their own books of business and cultivating meaningful professional relationships. Robert is also the author of the upcoming book Making It Rain, which provides practical guidance and checklists for attorneys who want to become effective rainmakers and prepare for starting their own practice. Passionate about mentorship and professional growth, Robert regularly shares insights on networking, empathy in client relationships, and strategic career planning for lawyers.   Connect with Robert Hartmann:   Website: https://www.hartmannlawfirm.net/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-hartmann-565a5919/ Email: [email protected] Phone: 714-381-1366   Connect with Steve Fretzin: LinkedIn: Steve Fretzin Twitter: @stevefretzin Instagram: @fretzinsteve Facebook: Fretzin, Inc. Website: Fretzin.com Email: [email protected] Book: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more! YouTube: Steve Fretzin Call 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 Leah Miller discuss: Run your law firm like a business, not a hobby Use accurate financials to avoid hidden risks and overpayment Track key metrics and benchmarks for people, operations, and marketing Leverage metrics to make strategic growth decisions   Key Takeaways: Long-term growth requires regular attention to financials. Cash in the bank is not a strategy; data should guide hiring, marketing, and operational decisions. Bad bookkeeping masks problems and can cost in taxes. Early investment in a bookkeeper or financial team yields high ROI and clarity. Monitor payroll, operating costs, and marketing spend as percentages of revenue. Focus on trends over time and adapt to what works for your firm. Financial data informs hiring, marketing, and process improvements. Treat new hires as investments, plan for cash gaps, and track time spent on business development for accountability.   "If you're not paying attention to the dollars and you're not operational decisions based on the finances, you are not going to have that long-term, sustained growth that you're looking for as a lawyer in a firm." —  Leah Miller   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/ Lawyer.com: https://www.lawyer.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 Leah Miller: Leah N. Miller, MBA, is the founder and CEO of Firmly Profits, a firm providing fractional CFO and bookkeeping services to law firms across the United States. Starting her career as a paralegal, Leah rose to become a firm administrator and CFO at a personal injury law firm in Fort Myers, Florida, where she recognized the need for law firm owners to gain confidence in their finances. Passionate about helping attorneys achieve financial clarity and sustainable growth, she now leads a team dedicated to offering expert financial guidance, process improvement, and strategic planning for firms of all sizes. Outside of work, Leah teaches paralegal courses and enjoys spending time with her husband and three daughters in sunny Southwest Florida.   Connect with Leah Miller:   Website: https://firmlyprofits.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LNMFinancialServices/videos LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/firmlyprofits/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/LNM-Financial-Services/100091343407958/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leah_lnm_financial/   Connect with Steve Fretzin: LinkedIn: Steve Fretzin Twitter: @stevefretzin Instagram: @fretzinsteve Facebook: Fretzin, Inc. Website: Fretzin.com Email: [email protected] Book: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more! YouTube: Steve Fretzin Call 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 Gary Miles discuss: Facing fear with clarity Owning your internal authority Focusing on the process, not the outcome Building freedom through micro-shifts   Key Takeaways: Fear is common in legal careers, often hidden behind competence. Recognize that much of it is imagined, not reality. Facing it openly allows lawyers to act with clarity and confidence. Internal authority matters more than external validation. Measure success by your own standards, preparation, and effort, not by others’ opinions or metrics. This mindset creates professional freedom and peace of mind. Enjoying the process improves performance more than obsessing over outcomes. Focus on preparation, relationships, and skill-building instead of constant comparison or pressure to “win.” This approach fosters growth and satisfaction. Small, practical shifts build lasting change. Replace self-critical thoughts with supportive ones, set clear boundaries, and evaluate progress by skill, enjoyment, and well-being. Over time, these micro-actions compound into meaningful professional freedom.   “There’s fear everywhere. Unfortunately, the reality is that we have to lean into it… We have to lean into the fear and make mistakes, and that’s how we improve." —  Gary Miles   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/ Lawyer.com: https://www.lawyer.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 Gary Miles: Gary Miles is a trial attorney and former managing partner with over 40 years of legal experience, now dedicated to coaching lawyers to thrive. Drawing on his own journey managing complex cases and running a successful firm, he helps attorneys overcome fear, limiting beliefs, and burnout while building practices aligned with their values. Gary is the host of The Free Lawyer podcast and author of Breaking Free: A Guide to Achieving Personal and Professional Freedom as a Lawyer, combining mindset strategies with practical tools for professional and personal fulfillment.   Connect with Gary Miles:   Website: https://www.garymiles.net/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-miles-freedom/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gary.miles.75641 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/golfinggary52/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqcfaTWo17uxmYS9hfAdiaQ Free Lawyer Assessment: https://www.garymiles.net/the-free-lawyer-assessment   Connect with Steve Fretzin: LinkedIn: Steve Fretzin Twitter: @stevefretzin Instagram: @fretzinsteve Facebook: Fretzin, Inc. Website: Fretzin.com Email: [email protected] Book: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more! YouTube: Steve Fretzin Call Steve directly at 847-602-6911   Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.