BE THAT LAWYER

In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Stuart Baum discuss:Developing positive habits for personal and professional successOvercoming bad habits that hinder productivity and growthThe importance of accountability and structured systems in habit formationStrategies for effective business development and client engagement Key Takeaways:Writing down commitments and follow-ups immediately after meetings, whether by texting yourself or using a note app, ensures accountability and helps avoid forgetting key tasks or names from conversations.Allocating two 30-minute blocks each week exclusively for business development activities, such as following up on leads or setting appointments, creates consistency and avoids the excuse of being too busy to prioritize growth.Using storytelling in conversations, focusing on concise, memorable anecdotes about solving client problems, engages potential clients better than overwhelming them with a long list of services.Establishing accountability partnerships, where colleagues or peers meet regularly to share progress and co-develop opportunities, adds structure to habit-building and prevents the temptation to delay important tasks. "Not all habits work for all people, but some of it will work for you—pick the things that work for you and do it." —  Stuart Baum 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/Rainmakers Roundtable: https://www.fretzin.com/lawyer-coaching-and-training/peer-advisory-groups/ Episode References: If Books Could Kill Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/if-books-could-kill/id1651876897 About Stuart Baum: Stuart Baum is a Sales, Marketing & Customer Success consultant and coach with proven experience helping businesses develop and implement go-to-market (GTM) and client expansion/saturation processes to increase lead generation and sales, grow client profitability, and improve the overall sales and marketing culture. He sits on a number of corporate boards, serves as the board chair of a not-for-profit, and also writes children's stories, which, along with writing activities and games, can be found at StuartStories.com. Connect with Stuart Baum:  Website: https://largerpond.com/Email: stuart@largerpond.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stuartbaum 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 Bryan Figueroa discuss:Strategies for scaling law firms effectivelyThe importance of delegation and effective team-buildingLeveraging technology and automation in legal practice managementThe evolving role of outsourcing and virtual staffing in modern law firms Key Takeaways:Solopreneurs should prioritize identifying their strengths and weaknesses to effectively delegate non-revenue generating tasks at a lower cost than their billable rate.Mid-sized law firms often struggle with innovation and can benefit from modernizing their technology stack and overcoming attachment to outdated practices.A central source of truth, such as a practice management suite, ensures all stakeholders have real-time access to essential data, streamlining firm operations.Over-hiring without sufficient revenue reserves can lead to financial strain during slow seasons, emphasizing the importance of planning and inventorying resources before scaling. "With the right standards of operations, the right training in place, and the right vision, every single one of the team members that is hired—if due diligence is done correctly—will perform accordingly, buy into the mission, and help push it forward." —  Bryan Figueroa 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/Rainmakers Roundtable: https://www.fretzin.com/lawyer-coaching-and-training/peer-advisory-groups/ Episode References: Free Lawyer Podcast by Gary Miles: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-free-lawyer/id1614507857 About Bryan Figueroa: Bryan Figueroa is a seasoned Sales and Operations leader and President of ShiftSixOS, a company providing full-time support staff for law firms and legal tech companies at a fraction of traditional hiring costs. Previously, he worked at a leading legal tech company, gaining valuable insights into industry challenges and building lasting client relationships. Bryan’s leadership emphasizes personalized support and a consultative approach to help clients scale their businesses and achieve success in a rapidly evolving market. Connect with Bryan Figueroa:  Website: https://shiftsixos.com/Email: bryan.figueroa@shiftsixos.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryan-figueroa1024/ & https://www.linkedin.com/company/shiftsixos/ 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 Kormanik discuss:Mastering time and prioritization for lawyersTransitioning from law practice to impactful coachingEmbracing work-life blend over balanceThe value of coaching for professional growth Key Takeaways:Lawyers should identify and focus on high-level tasks only they can perform, saying no to distractions and delegating effectively to reclaim control of their schedules.Creating space to recharge, such as leaving your phone behind during walks or taking intentional downtime, is crucial to maintaining focus and high performance.Begin each day with proactive work aligned with your goals, avoiding the trap of reactive email responses, which often represent others' priorities rather than your own.Instead of chasing an impossible balance, embrace the idea of blending professional demands and personal goals based on the current season of your life and work. "You do hard things every day—you just don’t realize it because, by the time you're done, you’ve already done them." —  John Kormanik 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/Rainmakers Roundtable: https://www.fretzin.com/lawyer-coaching-and-training/peer-advisory-groups/ Episode References: The Rich Roll Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-rich-roll-podcast/id582272991 About John Kormanik: John R. Kormanik is a Professional Certified Coach, known worldwide as the lawyer who coaches lawyers. His passion for human potential, combined with his coaching and legal training, along with a successful twenty-four-year career as a law firm owner and attorney, enables him to challenge his clients to achieve more than they believe possible. Connect with John Kormanik:  Website: https://www.johnrkormanik.com/Email: john@johnrkormanik.comBook: Break the Law: A Story of a Reimagined Legal Career and a Reclaimed Life: https://www.breakthelawbook.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnrkormanik 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 Scott Simmons discuss:Effective time management in the legal professionDeveloping habits and accountability for consistent business developmentBuilding a client-focused business model in lawOvercoming personal and systemic barriers to success in legal business development Key Takeaways:Allocating just 30 minutes weekly to business development can compound into significant progress over time, enabling lawyers to take control of their career trajectory.Transitioning from billable hours to value-based or subscription pricing models requires not just a pricing shift but a comprehensive business model overhaul.Lawyers must use tools like LinkedIn and existing client relationships to secure referrals effectively; over 90% of clients are willing to refer, yet only 8% of lawyers ask for them.Small, incremental habit changes, such as reading a chapter a week or posting on LinkedIn weekly, are more sustainable and impactful than attempting major shifts all at once. "What business development does is give you options, leverage, and control over your career choices. We're not taught this, and.....it's not something covered in law school." —  Scott Simmons 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/Rainmakers Roundtable: https://www.fretzin.com/lawyer-coaching-and-training/peer-advisory-groups/ Episode References: Atomic Habits by James Clear Outbound Squad Podcast About Scott Simmons: Scott Simmons, Co-Founder & Director of Legal Balance, is a toolbox for turning lawyers into rainmakers. After a successful law career, he discovered a passion for coaching and has spent 12 years helping lawyers build careers and senior executives excel. He offers bespoke training, coaching, and leadership courses globally and created The BD Breakthrough Blueprint™, a digital course for aspiring rainmakers. Scott writes and speaks on legal business development, value-based pricing, and subscription models. A husband, father, and film lover, he often includes movie analogies like Jaws or When Harry Met Sally in his sessions. Connect with Scott Simmons:  Website: https://www.legalbalanceinstitute.com/Email: scott.simmons@legalbalance.co.ukLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottsimmonsbdm/ 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 Gordon Firemark discuss:Podcasting as a tool for branding, content creation, and growthLegal and ethical essentials for podcastingStreamlining podcast production with AI and techLeveraging unique marketing strategies to enhance professional presence Key Takeaways:Podcasting generates diverse discoverable content by utilizing video, audio, and transcription, which can be repurposed into clips, blog posts, or courses to expand reach.Preparation with detailed outlines, structured workflows, and AI tools simplifies production.Legal consent from guests is essential, covering recording, editing, and perpetual use, including AI-related content integrity.Success relies on audience-building through consistent, targeted content that establishes authority and drives client acquisition and referrals. "Once you do [podcasting], I think it is a fantastic way of getting the word out and publishing your message on a regular basis." —  Gordon Firemark 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/Rainmakers Roundtable: https://www.fretzin.com/lawyer-coaching-and-training/peer-advisory-groups/ Episode References: The Expert Edge Podcast with Colin Boyd: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/expert-edge-podcast/id1500505303 About Gordon Firemark: Gordon Firemark, widely known as "The Podcast Lawyer™," is a seasoned entertainment attorney specializing in podcasting law. With 32 years of experience, he advises podcasters and clients in theater, film, television, and digital media. A sought-after speaker and writer on legal issues affecting digital creators, Gordon has been featured in numerous podcasts, webinars, and industry events. He hosts the Entertainment Law Update podcast (since 2009) and Legit Podcast Pro, providing expert insights on podcasting law. Gordon is also the author of the Podcast, Blog & New Media Producer’s Legal Survival Guide and develops online courses for creatives, entrepreneurs, and small firm lawyers. Connect with Gordon Firemark:  Website: https://firemark.comEmail: gfiremark@firemark.comLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/gfiremarkFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/gfiremarkInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/gordonfiremark/ 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 Tracy LaLonde discuss:Dynamics of trust in professional and client relationshipsStress management and work-life balance strategiesEffective delegation and communication for legal professionalsMaintaining integrity and transparency in business Key Takeaways:Trust grows through intentional, proactive communication, where even small gestures like timely responses build respect, while ignoring issues can erode trust and risk client loyalty.Finding personal joy amid work demands means setting boundaries (like leaving office on time) and developing discipline to prioritize non-work activities, even when emails and tasks pile up.Incremental delegation—starting with small tasks and expanding—builds confidence and trust, allowing the delegator to guide quality without an "all-or-nothing" approach.Acknowledging when personal matters affect responsiveness and communicating transparently with clients, even with a brief update, repairs trust and reassures them of quality service. "Integrity is everything. And I define integrity as doing what you say you’re going to do when you said you were going to do it." —  Tracy LaLonde 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/Rainmakers Roundtable: https://www.fretzin.com/lawyer-coaching-and-training/peer-advisory-groups/ Episode References: Why We Sleep: Unlocking the Power of Sleep and Dreams by Matthew Walker About Tracy LaLonde: Tracy LaLonde, an engaging trainer and speaker with over 30 years of experience, is dedicated to revolutionizing engagement in law firms. She offers practical, easy-to-digest guidance backed by cutting-edge research that will make a lasting impact on lawyers and business professionals. Through Joychiever’s Hierarchy of Engagement, as well as her comprehensive courses, Tracy equips law firms with tools to boost engagement, foster trust, minimize burnout, bolster financial performance, and create a culture where people thrive. With her dynamic approach, Tracy is setting a new standard for the legal industry. Connect with Tracy LaLonde:  Website: https://www.joychiever.com/Email: tracy@joychiever.comBook: Trust Me: The Insider's Guide to Being the Go-To Person at WorkLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracylalonde/ 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 Deb Feder discuss:Importance of client relationship management and deepening connectionsPrioritizing tasks to enhance productivity and work-life balanceRole of social media in professional growth and networkingEffective business development and optimizing client interactions Key Takeaways:Lawyers can achieve more sustainable productivity by prioritizing just two major tasks before checking email each day, preventing inbox overwhelm from dictating their workflow.Strategic questioning, like asking "Tell me more" or inquiring about specific client concerns, allows lawyers to gather deeper insights that often reveal additional opportunities to add value.LinkedIn profile optimization—especially the "about" section and professional headline—helps professionals attract the right clients by clearly reflecting their expertise and approach.Lawyers should leverage informal moments and small talk in client interactions to create authentic connections, which ultimately build client loyalty and lead to new business opportunities. "Tell me more… triggers your brain to get back in and actually actively listen, and from there you can thoughtfully respond." —  Deb Feder 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/Rainmakers Roundtable: https://www.fretzin.com/lawyer-coaching-and-training/peer-advisory-groups/ Episode References: Make No Small Plans: Lessons on Thinking Big, Chasing Dreams, and Building Community About Deb Feder: Deb Feder, CEO of Feder Development, LLC, is a business development and practice management strategist and coach for lawyers and law firms. Having practiced corporate law for 15 years, her work focuses on helping lawyers and professionals bring in consistent clients through curious, confident conversations. Deb holds a history degree from the University of Michigan and her JD/MBA from the University of Iowa. She completed her coach training and certification through New Ventures West and completed training in The Daring Way, which is based on the research of Dr. Brené Brown. She is the author of After Hello and Tell Me More. Connect with Deb Feder:  Website: https://debfeder.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bizdeb/ 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 Brian Zapf discuss:Financial planning and metrics for law firmsImportance of strategic investments and cost controlLeveraging financial storytelling for decision-makingBest practices for client and revenue management Key Takeaways:In addition to revenue, law firm owners should track net income and cash flow, as well as specific KPIs like effective hourly rates and client lifetime value to fully understand profitability.Payroll should be about 40-45% of revenue; excessive payroll spending can prevent firm growth and profitability, especially if partners or staff are not contributing proportional value.Firms should aim to bill upfront where possible and maintain timely follow-ups on accounts receivable to reduce cash flow issues and avoid prolonged collection struggles.Undercharging for services can lead to rapid client acquisition but may indicate undervaluing; regular market assessments can ensure competitive and profitable pricing. "The financial story goes beyond just having a financial report that your bookkeeper might give you each month. It’s more about understanding where you are right now in your business and where you want to go." —  Brian Zapf Join Steve on November 15th for an exclusive 60-minute session focused on actionable strategies for business growth. Register now—seats are limited to the first 20 attorneys! Sign up here: https://www.fretzin.com/blog/category/events/ Thank you to our Sponsors!Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/Rainmakers Roundtable: https://www.fretzin.com/lawyer-coaching-and-training/peer-advisory-groups/ Episode References: The Tim Ferriss Show: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tim-ferriss-show/id863897795 About Brian Zapf: Brian Zapf is the founder and Chief CFO of Flight Financial, a fractional CFO firm that helps law firm owners master their financials through clear financial storytelling and strategic financial management. With a focus on improving cash flow, profitability, and business growth, Brian uses his background in accounting and finance to help lawyers turn their numbers into actionable insights. He has helped his clients focus on what matters, improve their firm's performance, and reduce their stress. Connect with Brian Zapf:  Website: https://www.flight.financial/Email: brian@flight.financialLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bdzapf/ 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 Scott Love discuss:The value of finding a specialized niche in legal recruitingStrategies for building resilience in a challenging fieldTechniques for effectively positioning oneself as a trusted expertThe importance of focusing efforts to maximize productivity and impact Key Takeaways:Focusing exclusively on corporate, finance, and private equity law clients allowed Scott to build deeper client relationships and better anticipate client needs.Analyzing hiring and attrition data from law firms helps identify ideal clients whose needs align well with a specialized niche, enhancing recruitment effectiveness.Narrowing service to a limited number of retained clients at a time can improve service outcomes by allowing more dedicated and strategic client development.Success in niche recruiting relies on building a brand distinct from competitors, using thought leadership, targeted marketing, and leveraging unique personal strengths to attract high-value clients. "If you're dealing with sophisticated people, you really need to find not just uniqueness but distinction. And if you don’t have it, you can build it through thought leadership." —  Scott Love Join Steve on November 15th for an exclusive 60-minute session focused on actionable strategies for business growth. Register now—seats are limited to the first 20 attorneys! Sign up here: https://www.fretzin.com/blog/category/events/ Thank you to our Sponsors!Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/Rainmakers Roundtable: https://www.fretzin.com/lawyer-coaching-and-training/peer-advisory-groups/ Episode References: Pitch Anything: An Innovative Method for Presenting, Persuading, and Winning the Deal by Oren Klaff: https://www.amazon.com/Pitch-Anything-Innovative-Presenting-Persuading/dp/0071752854 About Scott Love: Scott Love is the founder of The Attorney Search Group, a legal recruiting firm. His practice focuses on partner transitions and law firm mergers, with specialized expertise in recruiting for global law firms in the areas of corporate, finance, private equity, and related practices. Connect with Scott Love:  Website: https://attorneysearchgroup.com/Show: The Rainmaking Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-rainmaking-podcast/id318840415LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scotttlove/ 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 Michael Educate discuss:Effective habits for business development and client relationshipsRelationship-driven networking and sustained client loyaltyThe impact of mentorship and personal values on professional growthThe importance of active listening and sales-free selling techniques Key Takeaways:Making business development a regular, ingrained part of the daily routine is essential for long-term success and should not be left as an “end-of-day” task.Building a client relationship based on trust and a commitment to solving client issues, even outside one’s specific expertise, can strengthen loyalty and ensure clients return.Personal experiences and relationships, such as advice from family, shape and inform approaches to client interactions, stressing genuine investment in client outcomes.Developing an initial personal network—family, friends, and peers—early on can lay a foundation for a robust client base, emphasizing relationship depth over formal networking. "People want to work with people that they respect and admire and people they feel like ‘get it’… it’s not just about the case in front of you. It's not just about the client relationship in front of you. It's making that person's life that much easier." —  Michael Educate Join Steve on November 15th for an exclusive 60-minute session focused on actionable strategies for business growth. Register now—seats are limited to the first 20 attorneys! Sign up here: https://www.fretzin.com/blog/category/events/ Thank you to our Sponsors!Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/Rainmakers Roundtable: https://www.fretzin.com/lawyer-coaching-and-training/peer-advisory-groups/ Episode References: The Par Train - A Mental Golf Show: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-par-train-a-mental-golf-show/id1136003885 About Michael Educate: Michael Educate is a trial lawyer engaged in all aspects of dispute resolution and strategic counseling, both in commercial litigation and in tax controversy matters. He has experience across various legal areas and industries for clients of all sizes, from small, privately held businesses to multinational enterprises, and particularly focuses his practice on representing clients in the financial industry as well as motor vehicle manufacturers and distributors. Mike is also frequently called upon to handle disputes involving asset and business valuations and complex damages claims. Connect with Michael Educate:  Website: https://www.bfkn.com/people/michaeleducateEmail: michael.educate@bfkn.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaeleducate/ 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.