Legal Talk Network - Law News and Legal Topics

Being a good lawyer is a lot about great storytelling. Unfortunately, that’s often not taught in law school. Facts build the case, but effective storytelling wins the case. Guest Robert Mattson is an experienced corporate communications leader and coach. But his skills go beyond that. He acts in and writes plays. He is also the founder and principal at Intrigue Communications and Coaching. He helps people not simply communicate but also tell a story. When you’re in front of a jury or arbitrator, you’re performing. It’s part of our everyday lives. Are you consciously telling the story that will help your client achieve the best outcome? Facts are vital. No argument there. But having the skills to help your audience understand those facts, embrace them emotionally, and understand what they are hearing is every bit as important. Mattson explains how understanding how stories are told makes you a better communicator. It’s more than an art, it’s a science. (Plus, he shares the three most important words in storytelling.) If you have thoughts on Workers’ Comp law or an idea for a topic or guest you’d like to hear, contact us at [email protected]. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Four years ago, on January 6th, 2021, our U.S. Capitol was under siege by supporters of Donald Trump who tried to stop a joint session of Congress from certifying the electoral votes of the 2020 presidential election. Fast forward to 2025, Donald J. Trump is about to take office as President and the fate of those convicted of January 6th crimes lies in his hands. In this episode, Craig is joined by Kimberly Wehle, professor of law at the University of Baltimore School of Law and author of the book, Pardon Power: How the Pardon System Works—and Why. Craig & Kim take a look back at January 6th, the possibility of Trump pardoning those convicted of federal crimes stemming from January 6th, and the implications this could have on our society and our legal system. Mentioned in This Episode: Los Angeles Times: Hundreds of Capitol Riot Prosecutions in Limbo as D.C. Court Awaits Trump’s White House Return By Alanna Durkin Richer and Michael Kunzelman Pardon Power: How the Pardon System Works—and Why by Kimberly Wehle Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It was the 80s, man! The Xennial microgeneration (born between 1977 and 1983) is, arguably, the best generation, but growing up in the magical, tech-free 80s wasn’t actually entirely happy-go-lucky. TV and movies of the era loved inflicting psychological scars on children, so Jared takes a therapeutic moment to get all that emotional damage off his chest. Next—what you’re actually here for—insights on legal technology, conferences, products, and more! Jared welcomes Jobst Elster of InsideLegal to get his take on the latest trends. They discuss technology use in law firms and spend time hashing out why legal tech conferences are still a pretty essential part of tech education and making connections with progressive, reputable vendors. And, lastly, the Rump Roast! As it turns out, Jobst has a serious barbeque hobby, so, in homage to the name of this segment, he and Jared talk about the literal roasting and smoking of delicious meats. ----- A playlist full of...meat? ----- Jobst Elster is the Head of Content/Legal Marketing Strategy at InsideLegal.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Digital information management is a delicate balancing act, connecting the moving parts of a busy legal operation with the information technologists who manage the data. How do you pull an entire office together and manage and leverage all that information? Guest Stephanie Clerkin is the Director of Litigation Support at Korein Tillery and a 2024 recipient of the Gayle O’Connor Spirit Award, which celebrates e-discovery and legal technology leaders who make noteworthy contributions to the fields of e-discovery, legal tech, information governance, cybersecurity, and data privacy. The award is named for the late Gayle O’Connor. Hear some of the secrets of bringing people together around technology (even dragging along some of the stragglers who have “always done it this way”). You’ll learn to adapt to different styles, demonstrate the value of efficient data management, and sometimes do more with less. Legal tech and data management never sleeps. Helping everyone – from support staff to senior attorneys – keep up is a challenge. Finding a mentor, establishing a work life balance, and mastering technology test us all, but Clerkin has tips you can put to work now. Mentioned in This Episode: Gayle O’Connor Spirit Award announcement Relativity e-discovery platform Relativity certifications Make-A-Wish Young Professionals NALA Conference & Expo 2025 NALA, The Paralegal Association Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Stephanie talks with Michael Bungay Stanier, the author of The Coaching Habit, about his new book How to Work with (Almost) Anyone. They discuss how successful law firm leaders know how to effectively coach teammates and how to foster what Stanier calls the ‘Best Possible Relationships’ (BPRs). This discussion emphasizes the importance of curiosity over advice-giving, and the need for psychological safety in both client and employee relationships. The discussion is rich with practical insights and actionable strategies for improving workplace dynamics and fostering better communication, including how to have a Keystone Conversation and build better self-awareness in leadership. Links from the episode: Check out Michael's books MBS Works Women & AI Summit Chapters 00:00 - Women + AI Summit 04:08 - Michael Bungay Stanier Insights 11:34 - Understanding BPR (Best Possible Relationship) 15:30 - Keystone Conversations Explained 19:53 - Qualities of a Great Team Member 23:20 - Getting Started with Effective Practices 26:31 - Importance of the "Read Me" Document 28:50 - Finding Michael Bungay Stanier Online 29:10 - Exploring More of Stanier's Work 29:45 - Outro Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Attorneys yearn for the commute. ----- Sullivan & Cromwell are bringing attorneys back to the office five days a week. The stated reason is to mirror "normal business hours" which is a cruel joke in an abnormal business hour industry. Democratic Party superlawyer Marc Elias faces an uprising at his firm after staff proposed a mandatory arbitration agreement despite many of his top clients openly campaigning on... banning mandatory arbitration agreements. Finally, Wilson Sonsini hands out bonuses but pulls a fast one with special payments. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If last year was when generative artificial intelligence went mainstream, could this year be the one when it gets even bigger? Will we see more people, law firms, companies and government agencies adopt, use or integrate it into their day-to-day activities? Will we see more rules and regulations from states or the federal government regarding its use? What about law schools and generative AI? Will we see more start to teach it? And will lawyers finally learn more about what to do, or not to do, when it comes to using it? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gaze into the depths with Gyi and Conrad, so you, too, can be prepared for the legal marketing days to come. This one’s all about the future, folks! ----- Well, and the past. First, an in-depth retrospective on whether Gyi and Conrad’s 2024 predictions showed true seer potential (or phony-baloney tendencies). Then, the guys turn a preternatural eye to what lies ahead. What mystically foretold trends will dominate the legal and marketing landscapes of 2025? From super-spammer AI avatars to, of course, another Michigan win—Gyi and Conrad can see it all. The News: Happy New Year from the Googly Googs. They kicked off 2025 with an infestation of Google Business Profile bugs. Yaaay. A Cautionary Tale: Deceptive marketing tactics could seriously come back to bite you in the you-know-where - “Strong Arm” Frank Azar wins $1.55 million in Google keyword lawsuit against Alabama law firm LHLM was selected by Feedspot as one of the 30 Best Legal Marketing Podcasts You Must Follow in 2025! Thanks, we think. Gyi’s GBP got suspended—again. ChatGPT for clients: MJ Morley shared that 3 out of 7 consults found her firm through ChatGPT – fascinating stuff! New CallRail launch – CallRail broadens attribution capabilities to include AI-powered search engines Is the truth about to get even muddier? Meta backs away from fact checking in the U.S. : NPR Suggested LHLM Episodes: Conrad’s Crystal Ball: The Re-Re-Return — Sponsored by CallRail Connect: The Bite - Lunch Hour Legal Marketing Newsletter! Leave Us an Apple Review Lunch Hour Legal Marketing on YouTube Lunch Hour Legal Marketing on TikTok Chapters (Times Approximate) (0:00) Hail to the Victors (2:05) Google, Lying Lawyers, ChatGPT, and Meta all in the News! (13:47) 2024 Predictions in Review (24:45) 2025 Lawyer Marketing Prognostications Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When, why and how should you make a pre-suit demand? Tune in for a realistic discussion on when they work, why sometimes they don’t, and tips on how to improve your chances of a positive outcome. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode’s discussions around the Community Table: New year, new plan. And that’s the key: plan. Don’t stumble blind into 2025, instead hear what the experts say about reviewing the previous year and setting goals for the new one. Don’t keep doing the same thing and expecting different results. Sometimes your ship needs a rudder. If you need a COO, an “executive officer,” to manage the practice, part-time help is available. Experienced administrators take a load off your shoulders and teach others how to set a course and get where you want to go. What to do when an associate can’t manage retainers and payments? Being a good lawyer is only part of the job, making sure the firm gets paid is the other part. Sometimes an associate isn’t good at communicating financial information with a client. But if you’re a business owner, you have a responsibility to make sure the firm makes money. Mentioned in This Episode: Association of Legal Administrators Ask us anything for the Community Table. Leave us a question online Join the next Community Table live. What’s on your mind? Clio Legal Trends Report Clio Cliocon 2025 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Legal aid and tech experts discuss self-help kiosks on the latest episode of Talk Justice. The under-resourcing of legal aid makes it impossible to provide meaningful legal help to every person who needs it. Many providers build and share educational materials and self-help resources online to help fill the gaps, but those without access to a personal computer or smartphone may not be able to access these resources. Self-help legal kiosks offer adaptable access. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lawyers, amongst other “safety-sensitive” professionals like doctors, police officers, etc., aren’t allowed to have a bad day at work. If you aren’t doing your best, someone could get hurt, and the weight of that responsibility can lead to mental health or wellness issues when attorneys, judges, or law students don’t have the support they need. Molly Ranns and JoAnn Hathaway welcome Tom Grden to the podcast to discuss the many resources available to legal professionals through Lawyers & Judges Assistance Programs. There is confidential help available for anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and more. Tom also shares a variety of simple coping skills for managing daily stressors. Learn more at: Michigan - Lawyers & Judges Assistance Program Tom Grden is Clinical Case Manager for the State Bar of Michigan’s Lawyers & Judges Assistance Program. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

New year, new goals! Dennis and Tom share their tech resolutions for the upcoming year and take a look back to see how they did on their goals from 2024. As might be expected, AI continually expands in the tech and legal worlds, so AI is prominent amongst the guys’ resolutions. They talk about their hopes for new AI implementations, thoughts on streamlining tech, social media in the post-Twitter era, additional work on their Second Brain projects, and more. Later, the guys ponder the question: how do we make 'improving firm-wide AI literacy' an achievable resolution for attorneys? All law firm staff who use AI need to have a good understanding of its current capabilities and potential uses. Dennis and Tom talk through how to keep level with developments and utilize AI tech to your greatest advantage. As always, stay tuned for the parting shots, that one tip, website, or observation that you can use the second the podcast ends. Have a technology question for Dennis and Tom? Call their Tech Question Hotline at 720-441-6820 for the answers to your most burning tech questions. Show Notes: Dial 1-800-242-8478 to talk to ChatGPT Dennis’ New Substack Newsletter: Personal Strategy Compass Google’s Gemini Advanced - get access to Google's most capable AI models with Gemini 2.0 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Throughout the history of our justice system, transgender prisoners’ issues have largely been ignored. Is that intentional indifference still predominant in the current landscape of our prisons? Nikki Marcotte and Trisha Rich talk with Alan Mills of the Uptown People’s Law Center about his career in prisoner rights litigation, including his work in the Monroe case and his opinions on the recent decision made by the 7th Circuit US Court of Appeals in Monroe v. Bowman. They discuss the issues surrounding gender affirming care in Illinois prisons, the impacts of politics and media, and how attorneys can get involved in prisoner rights issues. Alan Mills is Executive Director at Uptown People’s Law Center in Chicago, Illinois. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Texas can be proud to say that it was the first state to have an all-woman high court in the United States, but how exactly did this moment in history come about? Rocky Dhir welcomes Judge Jennifer Walker Elrod and Sharon Sandle to learn about this period in Texas history and the surprising series of events that led to the appointment of female judges. They go into detail about the challenges faced by these legal trailblazers—Nellie Robertson of Granbury, Edith Wilmans of Dallas, and Hortense Sparks Ward of Houston—and also discuss notable women’s issues of the era and highlight several other female legal pioneers. Judge Jennifer Walker Elrod is Chief Judge of the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit with Chambers in Houston, Texas. Sharon Sandle is Executive Director of the Texas Supreme Court Historical Society and Director of the Law Practice Resources Division at the State Bar of Texas. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this conversation, Barron Henley shares his expertise on document automation and formatting in Microsoft Word, focusing on hidden features, effective techniques, and the importance of styles. He discusses common pitfalls lawyers face and provides practical solutions to streamline document creation, including the use of templates, styles, numbering, and cross-referencing. The conversation emphasizes the need for proper setup to avoid formatting issues and enhance productivity, particularly in legal contexts. Links from the episode: Check out Affinity Consulting Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Statutes are hard. ----- Apparently, Clarence Thomas just didn't understand how to read the nearly 50-year-old statute requiring him to report massively expensive gifts. That's the Judicial Conference's official take in a new letter to the Senate panel looking into the ethical cesspool. The letter becomes public just as Chief Justice Roberts releases his annual report asserting that most criticism of the Court should be seen as improper intimidation and even violence. Before the holidays, we discussed Biglaw firms bucking the trend and not paying out special bonuses. Happy to report that they've reversed course. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A federal judge’s new book is giving readers a rare inside glimpse at how a judge determines which prisoners deserve to have their sentences overturned. In his memoir, Disrobed: An Inside Look at the Life and Work of a Federal Trial Judge, Judge Frederic Block introduced readers to his colorful life and career. In Crimes and Punishments: Entering the Mind of a Sentencing Judge, he explained the rationale judges use when deciding sentences, and the human toll it can take. And now, in A Second Chance: A Federal Judge Decides Who Deserves It, he’s shining a light on how judges consider resentencing and compassionate release. Without the passage of a key federal law in 2018, A Second Chance would not have been written. A bipartisan piece of legislation signed by President Donald Trump and supported by the ABA, the First Step Act was one of the biggest criminal justice reforms in the past decade. Among its sentencing reforms, it allows federal judges to reconsider sentences given out during tough-on-crime crackdowns, and for prisoners to petition for compassionate release. Block, who is a senior judge on the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York, soon found himself asked to reconsider sentences under the First Step Act. In the book, he outlines the crimes and rehabilitations (or lack thereof) of six federal prisoners. From a former police officer who assaulted an innocent Haitian immigrant to a trio of mobsters, Block selected an array that represents the types of cases he’s being asked to consider. Later in the book, he reveals the fate of each—whether life sentences were overturned or unrepentant prisoners were returned to their cells. In this episode of the Modern Law Library, Block tells ABA Journal’s Lee Rawles how his own views on sentencing have changed since he ascended to the bench in the 1990s. In a case that made the news after A Second Chance went to press, Block overturned a sentence he gave out 27 years ago, during his second year on the bench. Block had imposed a quintuple life sentence on Walter Johnson after the man was convicted of robbery, cocaine possession and witness tampering. At 61, Johnson has now been released from prison, and Block discusses that decision in the episode. Block sees a moral imperative for all strata of the justice system to work together to address mass incarceration. In addition to calling on judges to be open-minded when considering resentencing offenders, he encourages criminal defense attorneys to go through their lists of former clients to see whether any would be eligible for relief under the First Step Act. Most importantly, Block is calling upon citizens to lobby for sentencing reforms like the First Step Act on the state level, since the legislation only applies to federal prisoners. He points out that only about 200,000 of the approximately 2 million incarcerated Americans are federal prisoners; the vast majority are overseen by state courts. Block also discusses the public response to President Joe Biden’s recent clemency decisions, and how collateral consequences have influenced his initial sentencing decisions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Our continuing discussion on legal research examines the strengths and weaknesses of AI and the importance of deep and complete human analysis of all research. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nisha Anand, the Chief Executive Officer of Dream.org, joins SideBar to discuss how she builds bridges across political divides to find real solutions. Nisha employs the “radical act of finding common ground” with unlikely allies while still staying true to her progressive values. She provides a hopeful message that collaboration can achieve change and overcome polarization and political divides. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Whether you’re a legal history buff, a bookwork, or someone who just loves a great courtroom story, you’ll want to listen to this special episode, originally recorded for ABA Journal’s Modern Law Library with Lee Rawles. In this episode, What Went Wrong–and Right–with 10 Famous Trials, Lee sat down with Craig to discuss his book, How Would You Decide? 10 Famous Trials That Changed History, Book One. In this discussion, Craig talks about his research, what went into the selection of historic cases and trials for the book, and looks ahead to Book Two. Craig will be back soon with all new episodes of Lawyer 2 Lawyer. As we await his return, you can also get caught up on In Dispute. Enjoy! ABA Journal’s Modern Law Library invites top legal authors to discuss legal theories and historic events twice a month here on Legal Talk Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover how voice training can make you a more effective and persuasive attorney. Rena Cook, voice and speech trainer, shares invaluable tips on using breath, tone, and inflection to command attention in the courtroom and beyond. Learn how to speak with confidence, connect with your audience, and elevate your presence in any legal setting. From proper breathing techniques to authentic pitch variety, this episode reveals the power of vocal mastery in law. Don't miss out on this game-changing advice that could take your legal career to new heights! Links from the episode: Find your authentic voice with Rena Cook at My Vocal Authority Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For our first episode of 2025, we chose to dig deeper than resolutions and explore what lights us up and brings out our best. Build on that for the new year and you’ve got a resolution you’ll actually keep. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Round Table Group is a Premier Sponsor of the ABA Litigation Section. On this Litigation Radio episode, we will hear from Deena Pack, Senior Manager of Expert Witness Services at Round Table Group. The selection of the Round Table Group as the subject of this interview should not be construed as an endorsement by the American Bar Association of the Round Table Group and its services. Finding an expert witness goes beyond fancy credentials and an impressive CV. Guest Deena Pack is a senior manager of expert witnesses for Round Table Group, which wrangles experts for attorneys in cases nationwide. She’s joined by Dan Elms, a shareholder and veteran litigator with the law firm Greenberg Traurig. Let’s dig in. It starts with the CV, but there’s more to it. Don’t be afraid to start with a video interview. Experts may look good on paper, but it’s important to know if they can convey their expertise to a jury in a clear, relatable manner. Presentation and communication can be as important as expertise and authority. Your client’s case may hinge on the experts you select. Don’t be shy about challenging them (because opposing counsel sure will). The jury must trust your witness, but that can be a delicate dance. Too aloof, you lose your audience. Too casual, the jury may wonder if your witness is really an expert. And don’t forget the practicalities. You need an available witness, not someone with a planned lengthy vacation on their calendar. Is the expert a team player who could suggest angles you haven’t considered? What about references from other lawyers? Plus, it’s important to understand what kind of expert you need for your case. Industry knowledge can differ from academic expertise. Can your experts explain where their academic qualifications extend into the specifics of your case? Get the inside scoop on the art of selecting expert witnesses from two guests who live this. Resources: American Bar Association American Bar Association Litigation Section Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s tradition, y’all! Dennis, Tom, and Debbie Foster are together again for their year-end Pardon the Interruption podcast episode. Beginning with “Toss-Up”, they take on opposing views on legal tech issues (GenAI, collaboration, adoption, etc.). For their “What’s the Word?” segment, they choose the best descriptors for 2024’s trending tech, and then finish up with “Hot or Not?” to rank current tech offerings. Tom is rumored to be the favorite in this year’s matchup—can he retain his crown? As always, stay tuned for the parting shots, that one tip, website, or observation you can use the second the podcast ends. Have a technology question for Dennis and Tom? Call their Tech Question Hotline at 720-441-6820 for the answers to your most burning tech questions. Debbie Foster is the managing partner for Affinity Consulting, and is a nationally recognized thought leader on efficiency and innovation in professional legal organizations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A very jolly podcast. ----- It's a very special holiday episode of Thinking Like A Lawyer with three straight "Ho" stories. First, Hogan Lovells irks associates with a bonus announcement without matching the industry standard special bonuses. Meanwhile, law enforcement just can't help making Luigi Mangione look more like a sexy martyr and now someone claiming to be UnitedHealthcare is trying to assert ownership of his likeness. And Judge James Ho walks back his prior support for birthright citizenship now that it might cost him a job on the Supreme Court. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover how AI is revolutionizing law firms and why traditional legal practices may become obsolete. Join Alistair Vigier, CEO of Caseway, as he shares his remarkable journey from military service to disrupting the legal tech industry with groundbreaking AI solutions. Learn how artificial intelligence is transforming legal research, document creation, and client services - all while making law more accessible and efficient. Get an insider's look at the challenges and opportunities facing legal tech startups, including battles with established players and the innovative solutions that are reshaping how lawyers work. Alistair reveals how Caseway's AI technology is making premium legal tools affordable for firms of all sizes, while maintaining transparency and ethical standards. From real-time contract analysis to automated court document preparation, see how AI is not just changing the game - it's creating a new playing field for legal services. Whether you're a legal professional looking to stay competitive or simply curious about the future of law, this conversation offers valuable insights into the intersection of artificial intelligence and legal practice. Links from the episode: Check out iManage-Making Knowledge Work Caseway: Your AI_driven legal research assistant Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Reminder: In this day and age, attorney tech competence absolutely includes keeping up with the rapidly evolving AI landscape. So, we all know lawyers typically suck at tech adoption, but how are they doing since the advent of the AI renaissance? Surprisingly better than usual! Jared expounds upon the latest data and enlightens us on how lawyers are engaging with AI tools. Next, Jared welcomes Judge Marty McGee to explore AI in legal at even greater depths. Judge McGee talks through his personal experience with AI technologies, before going into the specifics of a recent AI court order regarding the appropriate use and responsibilities lawyers must bear as they interact with and implement AI in their legal practice. They touch on permissible GenAI uses, AI evidence, deepfakes, and more. Finally, the Rump Roast! Jared gets to know Judge McGee by learning his top picks amongst movie trilogies, breads, fonts, North Carolina barbeque, and lots more, in a game called “My Favorite Things”. ----- Feeling festive? So are we. ----- Marty McGee serves as the Senior Resident Superior Court Judge in Cabarrus County. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

That search bar is not always your most efficient research tool. Expert law librarian and attorney MJ Voss explains how to build a research log that will help you refine your search and broaden your understanding. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

AI may be changing the Workers’ Compensation insurance industry, but that doesn’t diminish the importance of a personal touch. Guest Michael Kelley leads the HUB International claims adjustment team in New England and explains how bringing cases to a satisfying conclusion for all involved can be as much of an art as a science. There’s room for both automation and technology and face-to-face discussion, understanding the nuances of every situation, and negotiating. Kelly shares his process and how he puts his 40+ years of experience to work, from soup to nuts. Hear what he considers and how he works with both employers and third-party insurers to reach a settlement that fairly compensates a worker while making sure a claims provider stays in business. What role will today’s emerging AI technology play? Kelley says it can be an excellent tool for efficiency, but nothing will replace an adjuster’s wisdom and experience. If you have thoughts on Workers’ Comp law or an idea for a topic or guest you’d like to hear, contact us at [email protected]. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Guest M.C. Laubscher is the founder of Producers Wealth and an author, speaker, and podcaster who aims to help business owners create and build wealth for themselves, their families, and their team. How do you look at the path to building your firm and your wealth? It’s not intuitive. It takes thought, effort, and time. How’s your cash flow, and how much time do you spend thinking about it? Sometimes as a business owner you get so caught up in the day-to-day that you may not be spending enough time working on your financial picture. Hear how finance, scale, and cash flow management can build your business. And make no mistake, a law firm is a business. Hear about the small things you can do within your business that make your business work for you. There may be no greater return than investing in your own business. Never doubt what you can do if you believe in yourself and your business. Hear how you can allocate capital more effectively for greater returns from your own business. As Laubscher says, “You don’t have to be a Rockefeller to do what the Rockefellers do.” Mentioned in This Episode: “Rich Dad, Poor Dad,” by Robert Kiyosaki “Loan on a Life Insurance Policy,” Investopedia Producers Wealth, Un-Billable Hour page “Get Wealthy For Sure” by M.C. Laubscher, free with paid shipping Join the next Community Table live. What’s on your mind? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You’ve got a talented legal team at your firm, but should they also be involved in your marketing schemes? Later, we recently realized that some of you want a bit more backstory on the guys, so, Gyi reveals how his mysterious past made him into the marketer he is today. ----- Should your lawyers stick to lawyering? Sometimes, an associate is super interested, tactical, and talented at marketing, but sometimes… they’re not. So, how do you avoid potential misuse of resources and make the most of your relationship with marketing partners? Gyi and Conrad talk through how to build trust, optimize your assets, and learn to be on the same team with your marketer. It’s a bird! It’s a plane! No, it's Gyi Tsakalakis! Who is Gyi, anyway? Every super hero has an origin story, and so does every marketer. The News: The Google algo update is finished—FINALLY. And, honestly, the results are a bit of a snoozefest. Gemini 2 is out and about! And, similarly—Zzz. Apple launched its ChatGPT integration with Siri. Useful? No? Yes? And, Gyi and Conrad’s Google Business Profiles are back on track. What happened? Suggested LHLM Episodes: Playing With the Social Media Algorithm || Drafting Your Marketing Dream Team: Round 2 Dial M for Mystery Shopper Connect: The Bite - Lunch Hour Legal Marketing Newsletter! Leave Us an Apple Review Lunch Hour Legal Marketing on YouTube Lunch Hour Legal Marketing on TikTok Chapters (Times Approximate) (0:00) Naughty Elf on the Shelf? (2:57) ALL the Legal Marketing News (10:36) Should Associates Play a Role in Your Law Firm’s Marketing Strategy? (26:53) What makes a Gyi? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Where do technology and the paralegal profession intersect? Everywhere. Guest Karen Tuschak is a legal tech pioneer with more than 30 years of experience in the legal profession. She combined her experience, knowledge, and her passion for innovative technology to form her own company, Spider Silk Innovative Solutions in Toronto, Canada. Her company helps law firms and paralegals become more productive through technology and innovation. Tuschak believes every paralegal professional can be their firm’s technology champion and driver. Technology continues to push the legal profession forward. E-discovery, data visualization, and case management are getting faster and better. Tuschak doesn’t worry about an AI systems taking over a paralegal’s job. Today’s latest tech actually helps paralegal professionals do better work, faster. Don’t be afraid of the latest and greatest. Instead, master it. The paralegal profession never stands still, and Tuschak sees endless opportunities for paralegal professionals. Project management, wrangling details, managing billing, and driving the adoption of legal tech create new roles seemingly daily. Hear how Tuschak nudges firms to invest in staff development, education, and tech and how you can get ahead in your own career through technology. Mentioned in This Episode: LinkedIn NALA Conference & Expo 2025 NALA, The Paralegal Association Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On December 9th, 2024, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced the banning of two chemicals found in products used primarily in the automobile, dry-cleaning, and manufacturing industries, but also found in some household products like cleaning wipes, paint removers, glues, and wig adhesives. The two solvents, Trichloroethylene, also known as TCE, and Perchloroethylene, also known as PCE or Perc, have been linked to cancer and other severe health issues. With the banning of TCE & PCE, the future of the EPA will be under Trump rule come January 20th, 2025. So what will be the impact of the TCE & PCE ban? And will there be a major overhaul of the EPA and an undoing of Biden’s regulations under Trump? In this episode, Craig is joined by Professor Wendy Wagner from The University of Texas at Austin School of Law. Craig & Wendy discuss the recent banning of TCE & PCE by the EPA, and the future of the EPA under a second Trump presidency. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Want better documents and better use of your time? You only need to master what you already own, that includes your Microsoft tools. The solution you didn’t even know you were searching for is right there in front of you (you just didn’t know it). Let’s fix that. Guest Barron K. Henley is a self-proclaimed “nerdy lawyer” who helped found the Affinity Consulting Group, a team of “recovering lawyers” dedicated to helping attorneys maximize productivity through technology. Hear how Henley and his team teach lawyers about Microsoft “styles,” voice to text solutions, formatting, and importing and synchronizing Excel data and tables. Save time, minimize errors, and stop feeling frustrated. You won’t come across these solutions by accident, but you can invest a little time in learning. It’ll pay you back in the long run. Questions or ideas about solo and small practices? Drop us a line at [email protected] Topics: The solutions to better document creation and management are probably right there in front of you An investment in training yourself, and your staff, in the ordinary everyday tech you use, such as the Microsoft 365 suite, pays you back exponentially Voice to text tech is vastly underrated for some tasks. People can speak at 180 words a minute, converting that into text automatically saves you a block of time that can be better used on real, creative efforts. Mentioned in This Episode: Previously on Legal Talk Network, The Lawyerist Podcast, “How Lawyers Can Maximize Word, With Barron Henley” ABA TECHSHOW 2025 Microsoft Voice to Text Microsoft 365 WordPerfect Hotdocs Copilot by Microsoft “Customize or Create New Styles” by Microsoft “How to Merge Word Documents” by Microsoft “Get Started With Voice Access” by Microsoft Netdocuments (Netdocs) Excel Templates by Microsoft Dragon Legal Clio Cloud Conference 2025 Clio Legal Trends Report Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Legal experts share the impactful tech projects they have contributed to, and the struggles and successes of getting volunteer lawyers to engage with tech tools on Talk Justice. Oswald’s project at Legal Aid Society uses automation and AI to handle record expungements more efficiently. Seely has seen great success from a project that allows people with medical debt from Chattanooga’s Erlanger Hospital to engage in alternative dispute resolution fully online. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Stressed out at work? In this episode, Lawyerist Lab mindset coach Supriya Venkatesan will help you understand how your body holds onto stress—and simple, science-backed ways to shake it off. From quick anxiety-relief techniques you can use in the courtroom to posture tweaks and tapping methods, these tools are helping lawyers nationwide stay calm and confident. Learn how movement and somatic regulation can transform the way you handle pressure, whether it’s tough opposing counsel or pre-trial nerves. Links from the episode: Join Lawyerist Lab Today! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Expert Service Provider Richard Rosenblum, CFE, CFCS discusses why real estate brokers are vulnerable to fraudsters and recommendations to reduce risk. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's the time of year when The Modern Law Library likes to look back on the media that we've enjoyed: our annual pop culture picks episode. This year, host Lee Rawles is joined by the ABA Journal reporters Danielle Braff and Anna Stolley Persky, and Victor Li, an assistant managing editor and host of the Legal Rebels Podcast. Naturally, their favorite books are discussed. But they also have movies, TV shows, podcasts and even Broadway musicals to recommend. From presidential histories to wicked witches, listeners will find ways to occupy the holiday season and the new year. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bringing new meaning to the court's order. ----- Can lunch save professional civility? Almost assuredly not, but one judge is going to try. Partnership isn't what it used to be. Instead of long careers with equity ownership, partners are making lateral jumps with more frequency than ever. More out of the murder of a Kentucky judge earlier this year... "running a brothel out of that courtroom" sounds ominous. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Feeling anxious? Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is a thing and most of us have probably experienced it. Tune in for our coping techniques before holiday anxiety kicks in! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we’re taking a closer look at a pivotal Supreme Court case that redefined workplace discrimination standards with distinguished attorneys Toni Jackson and Carolyn Wheeler. Together, they’re breaking down the impact of Muldrow v. City of St. Louis, a recent ruling that sets a new precedent in Title VII employment discrimination law, clarifying what level of harm an employee must demonstrate to challenge a transfer. Toni and Carolyn, representing employer and employee perspectives respectively, offer nuanced insights into how this decision impacts employers, managers, and employees alike. They discuss what the "some harm" standard means in practice, the effect on performance management and employee transfers, and why this ruling could open doors for new types of workplace discrimination claims. From shifts in workplace dynamics to the potential impact on DEI initiatives, this episode explores what business leaders, HR professionals, and employees need to know to navigate these new legal waters. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bullying is a real problem in the legal profession impacting recruitment, retention, and even driving lawyers out of the field. Guests Stephanie Scharf and Bobbi Liebenberg, through The Red Bee Group consulting firm, co-authored a report commissioned by the Illinois Supreme Court Commission on Professionalism titled “Bullying in the Legal Profession: A Study of Illinois Lawyers’ Experiences and Recommendations for Change.” We’ve heard anecdotes about bullying in the legal profession, but while anecdotes get some attention or raise eyebrows, they don’t drive change. That takes data. The study produced by Liebenberg and Scharf produced a mountain of compelling data through a survey of more than 6,000 Illinois attorneys. The shocking result: One in four lawyers surveyed reporting bullying. Numbers don’t lie, bullying in the legal profession happens. A lot. Bullying is more than incivility and rudeness. It involves power imbalances, intimidation, humiliation, and control. Sometimes it’s even physical. The study delivers a deep dive into a problem that has received little to no formal examination. Bullying impacts every field and lawyer in the profession, but it’s especially problematic for younger lawyers, women, people with disabilities, and people of color. It’s not “just hazing” and it can no longer be tolerated. This episode will have people talking. Resources: Illinois Supreme Court Commission on Professionalism “Bullying in the Legal Profession: A Study of Illinois Lawyers’ Experiences and Recommendations for Change” by Bobbi Liebenberg and Stephanie Scharf “Her Story: Lessons in Success From Lawyers Who Live It” by Teresa M Beck, Shayna Michele Steinfeld, and Jacqueline Mecchella Bushwack “Her Story: The Resilient Woman Lawyer's Guide to Conquering Obstacles, Book 2,” edited by Teresa M Beck, Alicia M Menendez, and Shayna Michele Steinfeld Previously on the Legal Talk Network, Bobbi Liebenberg and Stephanie Scharf on Lawyer 2 Lawyer, “A Study Into Women Leaving the Law” American Bar Association American Bar Association Litigation Section Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Seasons one and two of SideBar featured discussions with authors, lawyers, and academics discussing challenges to our individual constitutional and civil rights. Each of our episodes ended with our featured guests providing recommendations on how each of us can contribute to solutions for the common good. Season three of SideBar is going to flip the narrative. We are featuring lawyers, nonprofit leaders, activists, and community members who are already accomplishing extraordinary work that is improving the humanitarian, public policy, and charitable needs of our local, national, and global communities. We hope that you will join us for this season of SideBar as we meet individuals and organizations who prove through their actions that opportunities to influence positive change exist for each of us. We are calling this season of SideBar -- "Optimism in Action”. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Legal Report from Robert Half, host Jamy Sullivan (executive director, legal, Robert Half) and guest Amy Yeung (legal executive and board member) focus on the evolving role of the modern general counsel. From chief legal officer to strategic business leader, they discuss the new rules and responsibilities of today’s general counsel, the role technology plays and best practices for success. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In 1980, a family camping trip to Uluru turned into one of the most infamous trials in Australian history. When Lindy Chamberlain cried out, “A dingo’s got my baby,” few could have imagined the twists that would follow. In this episode, we unpack the investigation, trial, and ultimate exoneration of Lindy and Michael Chamberlain, exploring how media frenzy, flawed forensic evidence, and public perception shaped the case. From the courtroom drama to the role of societal bias, discover the heartbreaking story that captivated the world and changed the justice system forever. Join us as we analyze pivotal testimony, scientific debates, and the final vindication years later, as well as the lessons this case teaches about humanity, justice, and media influence. SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR VOICE ACTORS: Ramona Van Rensburg as Lindy Chamberlain Ron Sharp as Ian Barker Amy Allen as Sally Lowe Kira Mead as The High Court Deb Foster as Joy Kuhl Guy Dow-Sainter as John Phillips Trevor Murphy as Dr. James Cameron George Zaj as Prof. Barry Boettcher Adam Dunning as Michael Chamberlain Col Mooney as Justice Trevor Morling Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Travis Hoechlin, CEO of RizeUp Media, shares game-changing tips from 15+ years of legal marketing experience to help your practice thrive. Learn how simple changes—like better phone protocols—can boost your conversion rates, while smart moves like optimizing Local Service Ads (LSAs) and choosing the right marketing plan set you up for success. Links from the episode: Connect with Travis on LinkedIn RizeUp Media Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The world of AI and legal tech is evolving ever more rapidly, and it is all too common for lawyers to feel intimidated at the thought of keeping up with the constant barrage of change. How should lawyers maintain their tech competence? Dennis and Tom talk with Ilona Logvinova about her work in tech and AI innovations for lawyers. She shares her career journey and offers perspectives on leveraging technology to create new and better opportunities for attorneys to thrive in their work. As always, stay tuned for the parting shots, that one tip, website, or observation that you can use the second the podcast ends. Have a technology question for Dennis and Tom? Call their Tech Question Hotline at 720-441-6820 for the answers to your most burning tech questions. Ilona Logvinova is director of Practice Innovation at Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP. Show Notes: Andreessen Horowitz Podcast Spotify Microsoft Project Packable Puffer Jackets & Vests from Patagonia Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After a yuletide dinner in days of yore, a group of Chicago Bar Association members spiced up the evening with some delightful songs and sketches. Now, over a hundred years later, this tradition has grown into a full-fledged musical revue, featuring an array of comedic and musical performances peppered with parodies of notable pop-culture moments. Mathew Kerbis and Kellie Snyder welcome cast members Carissa Meyer, Christopher Johnson, and Skip Harsch to learn about their experiences in theater, their involvement in the Bar Show community, and what this year’s performance has in store! The Chicago Bar Show will be performed on January 8, 10, and 11. To learn more, visit The Bar Show on the CBA website. And, tickets are selling fast! Purchase yours at barshow.org. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lawyer burnout is real, and it's time to talk about it! In this episode of the Lawyerist Podcast, Zack chats with professional development coach Natasha Evans to uncover the 5 hidden signs you’re nearing burnout. They discuss the prevalence of high-functioning depression among lawyers, the impact of holiday stress, and why even the most successful attorneys aren’t immune. Natasha shares practical strategies to break free from the burnout cycle, reignite your passion for law, and improve your mental wellness. Discover simple self-care tips, mindset shifts, and the surprising link between your well-being and your firm’s success. Links from the episode: Check out TimeSolv Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices