Counsel To Counsel - Career Advice For Lawyers podcast

30:41

In this episode, business coach Dominic Grew returns to discuss how solo and small firm lawyers can strategically grow their practices without overextending themselves. Dominic shares practical insights on leveraging time, outsourcing non-billable tasks, and using fractional resources before committing to full-time hires. Key Topics: When to consider hiring support staff or associates The benefits of fractional hires and outsourcing tasks like bookkeeping and IT Avoiding common mistakes when expanding a law practice How to balance delegation while maintaining quality Real-world scenarios: Hiring a first employee, sharing an associate, and weighing contract help vs. joining a larger firm Why You Should Listen: If you’ve ever wondered how to scale your law firm while maintaining efficiency and profitability, this episode provides actionable strategies to help you make informed decisions about growth. Additional Resources: Episode 110: Getting to No – Turning Leads into Business with Dominic Grew…

Counsel to Counsel - Career Advice for Lawyers

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Episode 149—Turning Business Conversations into Business—a Role-Play with Gary Johnson 49:01

acum 5 weeks49:01

49:01

In this episode, host Stephen Seckler welcomes back Gary Johnson, president of J2 Marketing Consultants , for a dynamic session of role-playing client intakes. They explore how lawyers can turn initial business conversations into productive relationships. Gary, an expert in coaching attorneys on growing their practices, shares practical techniques for understanding client needs, building trust, and addressing objections. Role-play scenarios include consultations with a restaurant owner expanding his business, a divorcing client navigating complex emotions and custody issues, and parents of a special needs child seeking estate planning advice. Each scenario highlights the importance of active listening, empathy, and providing tailored solutions. Gary also emphasizes the long-term value of relationship-building in legal marketing. This episode is packed with actionable insights for lawyers aiming to enhance their client interactions and business development strategies. Additional Resources Episode 74-Turning Business Conversations into Business-with Gary Johnson Episode 144-Turning Business Contacts into Business: Lessons From the 2024 Election Episode 110-Dominic Grew on “Getting to No”-Turning Leads into Business and Other Ways to Succeed in Private Practice…

Counsel to Counsel - Career Advice for Lawyers

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Episode 148-Strategic Marketing for Law Firms with Carrie Flynn 36:06

acum 6 weeks36:06

36:06

In this episode, host Stephen Seckler sits down with Carrie Flynn , a fractional CMO and growth marketing consultant, to explore the evolving landscape of marketing for lawyers and law firms. Carrie brings over eight years of experience helping professional service businesses scale their revenue and impact through tailored digital and traditional marketing strategies. Together, they unpack the essential elements of building a robust marketing plan that balances relationship-building with digital tools. Key Topics Discussed: Marketing Fundamentals for Law Firms: How to identify your ideal client and develop targeted messaging to stand out in a competitive market. The Power of Diversification: Combining referral marketing with digital strategies like email marketing, social media, and SEO to drive consistent lead generation. Data-Driven Strategies: Leveraging past performance to inform future marketing decisions and optimize results. AI in Legal Marketing: The opportunities and ethical considerations when incorporating AI into your marketing efforts. Actionable Steps: Tips for creating a focused 90-day marketing plan and evaluating its impact. Carrie also shares her journey from public school teacher to marketing consultant and offers insights into how law firms can establish effective marketing practices that drive growth without sacrificing work/life balance.…

Counsel to Counsel - Career Advice for Lawyers

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Episode 147-Your Legal Career: If It’s Broke, Fix It or Move On? 36:22

acum 8 weeks36:22

36:22

In this episode of Counsel to Counsel , host Stephen Seckler is joined by Susanne Aronowitz , a senior consultant with Beard Strategies and a Professional Certified Coach, to discuss career transitions and job satisfaction for lawyers. Susanne shares her journey from employment attorney to career coach, offering insights drawn from her 25 years of experience. Together, they explore how lawyers can address career dissatisfaction, identify whether issues are fixable within their current role, and recognize when it’s time to move on. Susanne also provides actionable advice on navigating involuntary job loss, reframing layoffs as opportunities for growth, and leveraging networking for successful transitions. The conversation covers strategies for improving job satisfaction, such as proposing changes to employers, adjusting responsibilities, and exploring complementary practice areas. Susanne highlights the importance of self-care and managing negative self-talk during career transitions, as well as practical steps for processing emotions and maintaining professionalism in the face of job loss. Packed with valuable tips and inspiring success stories, this episode offers a roadmap for lawyers seeking fulfillment and balance in their careers. Don’t miss Susanne’s expert guidance on turning challenges into opportunities! For more information, visit Susanne's website or contact her directly. Additional Resources Strategies for Prioritizing Well-Being in Attorney Job Searches and Career Development Episode 142-Winning in Your Own Court with Dena Lefkowitz Episode 135-Tackling Mental Health Issues in the Law with Amy Levine and LCL ·…

Counsel to Counsel - Career Advice for Lawyers

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Episode 146-Nancy Capistran on Using Peer Advisory Groups and Individual Coaching to Build Leadership Skills 35:05

acum 12 weeks35:05

35:05

In this episode of the Counsel to Counsel podcast, host Stephen Seckler engages with Nancy Capistran, founder of Capistran Leadership and a Vistage chair, to delve into the transformative impact of peer advisory groups and executive coaching. Nancy, an internationally certified executive coach and crisis advisor, is renowned for her commitment to Expanding Human Excellence®. She is also the author of the best-selling book Open Your Eyes and LEAD: Hardship and Wisdom Shape the Best Leaders in Life , which offers insights into overcoming challenges to achieve exceptional results. In this conversation, Nancy shares how group coaching fosters leadership growth through collaborative learning, diverse perspectives, and collective problem-solving. She also distinguishes between group and one-on-one coaching, emphasizing how each format can transform leaders both personally and professionally. Whether you’re a legal professional or a business executive, this episode provides practical insights into leadership development and maximizing your potential. Additional Resources Episode 130-Emotional Intelligence and EQ i-2.0 With Susan Schwartz Episode 129-Law Firm Leadership with Kristi Royse Ted Lasso (?TV+) and Lessons in Leadership and Performance 15 Tips for Leadership Success…

Counsel to Counsel - Career Advice for Lawyers

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Episode 145-“Earley” Mistakes to Avoid When Starting Your Own Law Practice 34:47

acum 14 weeks34:47

34:47

Starting your own law practice is a bold and rewarding move, but it comes with its share of challenges. In this episode of Counsel to Counsel , host Stephen Seckler sits down with Chris Earley , a Massachusetts-based personal injury attorney and business coach, to discuss lessons from his journey building the Earley Law Group from scratch. Chris shares insights from his ABA article, "Five Mistakes to Avoid When Starting Your Law Practice," and offers actionable advice for attorneys looking to take the leap into entrepreneurship. Chris recounts the early days of his practice, launching in 2005 with no cases, money, or connections, and the hustle it took to get his firm off the ground. He emphasizes the importance of networking and creative marketing, lessons he learned the hard way. Chris also reflects on how shifting his mindset from being a lawyer to being a business owner transformed his approach to growth. From leveraging his last name in branding to building a strong referral network, Chris’s story is packed with practical tips for standing out in a crowded market. The episode also explores the evolution of personal injury law, including trends like safer cars and self-driving technology that are reshaping the field. Chris discusses the challenges of scaling a practice, managing stress, and staying present for his family. Whether you're a new lawyer considering starting your own firm or an experienced practitioner looking to refine your approach, this conversation will inspire and equip you to navigate the path ahead with confidence. Additional Resources Five Mistakes to Avoid When Starting Your Own Law Practice (ABA membership required)…

Counsel to Counsel - Career Advice for Lawyers

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Episode 144-Turning Business Contacts into Business: Lessons From the 2024 Election 8:52

acum 16 weeks8:52

8:52

In this episode of Counsel to Counsel , host Stephen Seckler shares insights from his recent experiences volunteering during the 2024 election. Drawing lessons from the power of listening in political campaigns, Steve explores how lawyers can apply the same principles to business development. He emphasizes that active listening and understanding client concerns are key to building trust and turning relationships into business opportunities. Steve breaks down practical strategies for lawyers: Ask open-ended questions to uncover client needs. Help clients articulate the urgency of solving their problems. Position yourself as a problem-solver, not a salesperson. Build trust by guiding clients through a thoughtful, solution-focused process. Tune in to learn how these strategies can help you grow your practice authentically and effectively.…

Counsel to Counsel - Career Advice for Lawyers

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Episode 143-The Longevity Revolution with Judith Kurnick 40:09

acum 18 weeks40:09

40:09

In this episode Steve Seckler speaks with Judith Kurnick , an executive transition coach who specializes in guiding late-career lawyers, executives, and business owners as they navigate career transitions. Judith delves into the “longevity revolution,” the idea that professionals in their 60s can expect to live and thrive for another 25-30 years. She shares strategies for overcoming challenges like ageism, health concerns, financial planning, and maintaining relevance while transitioning from demanding roles. The episode provides practical advice on shifting mindsets, exploring new roles, and developing personalized plans to stay productive, engaged, and fulfilled in later career stages. Judith also emphasizes the importance of repurposing skills rather than retiring, helping listeners rethink what’s possible in their next chapter. Judith Kurnick is an executive transition coach, speaker, and writer with over 35 years of experience as a strategic communications leader. Drawing from her background as a former classical musician, C-suite executive, and consultant, she helps clients create personalized plans to remain relevant, productive, and energized as they move into the next stages of their careers. Additional Resources and Episodes Episode 134-Law Firm Succession Planning with David Wood Episode 67-Retirement By Design (for Lawyers) Succession Planning for Your Career-What Comes Next…

Counsel to Counsel - Career Advice for Lawyers

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Episode 142-Winning in Your Own Court with Dena Lefkowitz 33:54

acum 20 weeks33:54

33:54

In this episode of Counsel to Counsel , host Stephen Seckler welcomes Dena Lefkowitz , a professional coach and former practicing attorney who helps lawyers navigate the complexities of career development, marketing, and finding professional fulfillment. Dena practiced law for over 20 years before transitioning to coaching and has authored the book Winning in Your Own Court , published by the American Bar Association. The book has garnered notable recognition, including the Nautilus Silver Award for Inner Prosperity & Right Livelihood. Together, Stephen and Dena discuss key insights from the book, focusing on how lawyers can take control of their careers, improve well-being, and discover greater satisfaction in their work. Tune in as they explore topics such as why attorneys often become dissatisfied in their careers, strategies for managing burnout, the importance of self-awareness, and practical steps for improving time management. They also delve into networking, setting boundaries, and how lawyers can embrace change in their professional lives. This episode is packed with actionable advice for attorneys seeking to boost their career satisfaction while maintaining balance and personal fulfillment. Related Episodes and Resources Episode 139-Conquering Perfectionism in the Practice of Law with Jordana Confino Episode 135-Tackling Mental Health Issues in the Law with Amy Levine and LCL Episode 122-For the Sake of Your Mental Health, Stop Thinking (and Acting) Like a Lawyer…

Counsel to Counsel - Career Advice for Lawyers

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Episode 141-Co-Mediation with Jeff Soilson, Esq. and Ashleigh Louis Ph.D. 45:55

acum 22 weeks45:55

45:55

In this episode of Counsel to Counsel, I am joined by Jeffrey Soilson, Esq. and Ashleigh Louis, Ph.D., founders of Quantum ADR, an innovative co-mediation practice. Quantum ADR takes an interdisciplinary approach to conflict resolution by combining Jeff's 25 years of family law expertise with Ashleigh's deep understanding of psychology. Together, they offer a unique "two-coach" model that addresses both the legal and emotional aspects of disputes, creating a more holistic process for their clients. In this episode, Jeff and Ashleigh share their insights into how their combined expertise helps clients navigate complex situations like divorce, co-parenting, and even workplace conflicts while also fostering skills for conflict prevention. The conversation highlights the distinct advantages of having both legal and psychological perspectives in mediation, such as the ability to understand emotional blockages that often hinder resolution and the importance of aligning clients’ actions with their core values. Jeff and Ashleigh describe how their model aims to prevent future conflicts by helping clients resolve their inner struggles, ultimately leading to more effective and lasting agreements. They also discuss how their co-mediation practice is structured to be more cost-efficient compared to traditional litigation, allowing clients to save both time and money while receiving comprehensive support through the mediation process. Tune in to learn how this innovative approach to mediation could redefine how we think about dispute resolution.…

Counsel to Counsel - Career Advice for Lawyers

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Episode 140- Naïs Mouret on Emotional Intelligence, Physical Well-being, and the Practice of Law 31:39

acum 24 weeks31:39

31:39

In this episode of Counsel to Counsel , host Steve Seckler interviews Naïs Mouret, a global leadership advisor and certified emotional intelligence consultant. Naïs shares insights on the critical role of emotional intelligence (EI) and physical well-being in the legal profession. Drawing on her experience working at the United Nations and her extensive background in leadership consulting, she highlights how empathy, resilience, and mindfulness are essential tools for both professional success and personal satisfaction. Naïs emphasizes the importance of developing EI to better connect with clients and colleagues, particularly in high-pressure environments like law firms. Naïs also discusses the profound impact of physical well-being on professional performance, advocating for small, practical steps that lawyers can integrate into their daily routines to enhance both mental and physical health. From mindfulness exercises to movement breaks, she shares tips on how busy legal professionals can foster resilience and maintain balance. This episode provides valuable advice for young lawyers on building long-term success by prioritizing both emotional intelligence and personal well-being. Related Episodes and Resources Episode 139-Conquering Perfectionism in the Practice of Law with Jordana Confino Episode 135-Tackling Mental Health Issues in the Law with Amy Levine and LCL Episode 130-Emotional Intelligence and EQ i-2.0 With Susan Schwartz How Developing Emotional Intelligence Will Lead to Long-term Success for Lawyers The Power of Physical Wellbeing - Beyond Self-help and Mental Health Practices [Reach out to Stephen Seckler for PDF versions of articles]…

Counsel to Counsel - Career Advice for Lawyers

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Episode 139-Conquering Perfectionism in the Practice of Law with Jordana Confino 42:34

acum 27 weeks42:34

42:34

In this episode of the Counsel to Counsel podcast, host Stephen Seckler is joined by Jordana Confino , a certified professional coach and founder of JC Coaching & Consulting. Together, they explore the pervasive issue of perfectionism within the legal profession, discussing how it often leads to anxiety, burnout, and career stagnation. Jordana shares her personal journey from practicing law while grappling with perfectionism to discovering the transformative power of positive psychology, which helped her redefine success and well-being in her career and life. Jordana delves into the cultural and psychological roots of perfectionism in law, explaining how it can hinder career growth and creativity despite being viewed as a badge of honor in the profession. She outlines effective strategies for overcoming perfectionist tendencies, including self-compassion, distanced self-talk, and setting healthy boundaries. Through science-backed techniques and her own experiences, Jordana provides valuable insights for lawyers looking to achieve sustainable success and fulfillment without sacrificing their mental health. Additional Resources Self-Compassion Guide — Jordana Confino Episode 135-Tackling Mental Health Issues in the Law with Amy Levine and LCL Episode 70-Shailini George on Doing Well and Being Well in the Law…

Counsel to Counsel - Career Advice for Lawyers

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Episode 138-Thought Leadership and Careers in Business Law with Lana Manganiello 31:03

acum 29 weeks31:03

31:03

In this episode Stephen Seckler speaks with Lana Manganiello , author of the new book Careers in Business Law: Forging Your Path to Success (American Bar Association 2024). Lana shares insights from her extensive experience working with AmLaw 200 firms on business strategy, attorney development, and implementing innovative growth initiatives. They discuss the evolving landscape of business law, the importance of aligning career choices with personal values, and how thought leadership can be a powerful tool for lawyers. Whether you're a law student, early-career lawyer, or seasoned professional, this episode offers valuable advice on navigating and succeeding in the legal profession. Tune in to learn more about Lana's career journey, her motivations for writing the book, and the key lessons she hopes readers will take away. Additional Episodes Episode 68-Are there Gender Differences in Legal Marketing?—What Men and Women Can Learn From Each Other About Building a Law Practice Episode 118-Paths to Partnership in 2023 and Beyond-With Laura Terrell…

Counsel to Counsel - Career Advice for Lawyers

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Episode 137-Summertime, Time Blocking, and Checking Things Off of Your To Do List 7:13

acum 32 weeks7:13

7:13

In this episode of Counsel to Counsel, I'm taking a summer pause from interviewing to catch up on some projects. I share with you my thoughts on using time blocking as a way to get to the things that are important but not urgent. Related Episodes Episode 123-Setting Your 2024 Goals and Creating Your “To Don't" List with Jennifer Forester and Wendy Merrill Episode 57- Billable Work v. Investment Hours (Dr. Sarah Reiff-Hekking on Time Management)…

Counsel to Counsel - Career Advice for Lawyers

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Episode 136- Aliant, a New Global Model for Practicing Law with Jacob Stein 31:58

acum 34 weeks31:58