The Rainmaking Podcast

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Brooke Lively, founder of Cathedral Capital and author of From Panic to Profit, about the six key financial numbers every firm should track to ensure profitability and long-term success. Brooke explains that while professionals are often passionate about their practice areas, they may lack the business acumen needed to manage firm operations effectively. Her framework focuses on fundamental financial indicators that serve as a scorecard for operational performance and strategic decision-making. Key topics include tracking cash flow forecasts weekly to ensure financial stability, monitoring budget versus actual reports monthly to evaluate operational performance, and assessing ideal ratios to ensure owners are compensated fairly. Brooke also highlights the importance of tracking work in progress (WIP) to maintain productivity, measuring the number of sales calls booked to predict future revenue, and monitoring net new cases to manage team capacity and forecast staffing needs. She shares real-world examples of firms that have dramatically improved profitability by implementing these metrics, along with actionable tips for making strategic adjustments. This episode provides essential guidance for professionals looking to build a profitable, data-driven business. Visit: https://therainmakingpodcast.com/ ---------------------------------------- Brooke Lively is the CEO and Founder of Cathedral Capital. With expertise in growth management, creative problem solving, and profitability strategy, Brooke has been named ‘Top 25 Women to Watch,’ 2016 - 2020 Diversity Journal ‘Women Worth Watching’, and ‘Fort Worth’s 2016 CFO’s of the Year’. She is a highly regarded international speaker and the author of several books, including an international best-seller. ---------------------------------------- This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link: https://www.leopardsolutions.com/index.php/request-a-demo/ Links: Amazon link to Brooke’s book: https://tinyurl.com/ms9te7ds https://cathcap.com/meet-the-team/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/brookelively/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Dr. Jean Oursler, also known as the “Results Queen,” about the Caveman Brain Business Growth System. Dr. Oursler, who holds a Ph.D. in business psychology, explains how our brain’s primitive wiring—the “caveman brain”—can sabotage business development efforts by triggering fear and self-limiting beliefs. She highlights how these mental roadblocks, rooted in culture, life experiences, parents, and childhood, often manifest as stories we tell ourselves, such as fears of being perceived as pushy or salesy. Dr. Oursler emphasizes that overcoming these stories requires creating new neural pathways by replacing negative thoughts with empowering beliefs, allowing professionals to unlock their full business development potential. Key topics include identifying and reframing limiting beliefs, using neuroscience-based strategies to form new habits, and leveraging the four-phase Caveman Brain system: alignment, accountability, expansion, and addressing “mind junk.” Dr. Oursler shares practical techniques like writing down self-limiting thoughts, challenging whether they are facts or opinions, and focusing on an ideal client profile (“Mimi”) to streamline business development efforts. She also discusses how professionals, particularly in the legal industry, can shift from a “selling” mindset to a “helping” mindset, making business development feel more authentic and approachable. This episode provides actionable insights for professionals looking to overcome internal barriers and achieve sustainable business growth. Visit: https://therainmakingpodcast.com/ ---------------------------------------- Dr. Jean works with financial advisors, financial planners, lawyers, accountants, entrepreneurs, and business owners to increase their new business development by 25% with just five hours a week. Using her proven, proprietary system, that she developed by working with a Harvard Neuroscientist, The Caveman Brain Domination System is a "done for you" process that eliminates the obstacles and accelerates your success. Dr. Jean understands what it takes because she is an entrepreneur and a business owner herself. Jean's mission is to leave you better than she found you! SPEAKING: Dr. Jean is a speaker known for her high energy, playful but professional non-sales style. She teaches her audiences how to increase sales and keep the end game in mind. Getting REAL RESULTS! ---------------------------------------- This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link: https://www.leopardsolutions.com/index.php/request-a-demo/ Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeanoursler/ https://cavemanbrain.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Jeff Bartsch, strategic storytelling expert and founder of Story Greenlight, about building trust through the power of story. Jeff, who spent 20 years shaping stories in Hollywood, explains how professionals can use storytelling as a strategic tool to earn trust and connect with prospective clients. He emphasizes that storytelling is not just about entertainment but about thoughtful communication designed for a specific audience and purpose. By understanding what clients desire, the obstacles they face, and the transformation they seek, professionals can craft stories that resonate and build meaningful relationships. Key topics include the concept of strategic storytelling, defining stories through desire, obstacles, and change, and tailoring narratives to meet the unique needs of prospects. Jeff shares practical techniques for developing a "story bank" of client success stories, origin stories, and value-driven narratives that demonstrate expertise and build credibility. He also highlights common pitfalls in storytelling, such as telling self-serving stories or failing to connect the narrative to the client’s challenges. This episode provides actionable insights for professionals looking to use storytelling as a powerful tool for trust-building and business development. ---------------------------------------- Jeff Bartsch is a man whose life has been a testament to the power of human connection in all its diverse forms. His journey of discovery and exploration has led him to understand that he has been studying, implementing, and teaching human connection throughout his entire life, even though it took him a long time to fully grasp this realization. Jeff's journey began at the tender age of 4 when he started playing the piano by ear. This musical pursuit eventually evolved into classical training, serving as an early avenue for him to connect with others through the universal language of music. In his junior high years, Jeff delved into the world of multi-track recording and MIDI sequencing, further honing his ability to communicate through sound. High school brought another dimension to Jeff's quest for connection as he ventured into the realm of video production. This new skill allowed him to express himself creatively and connect with audiences through visual storytelling. His passion for both music and communication led him to double major in Bible studies and music composition during college, a period where he continued to expand his horizons. To support himself, Jeff embarked on a unique dual career path. On weekdays, he toiled in a lumber yard, loading semi trucks with his own hands. On weekends, he assumed the role of a radio announcer, sharing his voice and connecting with listeners in real-time. Despite his initial aspirations to pursue film school, financial constraints steered Jeff in a different direction. He found himself in the heart of Hollywood, crafting his career as a television editor for some of the world's most prominent media outlets, including ABC, NBC, Universal, Disney, Apple, and many others. His insightful commentary on the entertainment industry earned recognition in numerous textbooks, the Associated Press, USA Today, and Time Magazine. In fact, he even authored a book titled "Edit Better: Hollywood-Tested Strategies for Powerful Video Editing." ---------------------------------------- This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link: https://www.leopardsolutions.com/index.php/request-a-demo/ Links: storygreenlight.com/rainmaking https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nrft_CFbkso https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-bartsch-0265934/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with C.J. Webster, tech sales expert and founder of C Webster Consulting, about the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI) in sales and business development. C.J. shares insights on how AI is reshaping the sales landscape by helping professionals target the right prospects, refine value propositions, and mine data to uncover hidden opportunities. He emphasizes that AI enables more personalized and strategic approaches, allowing sales professionals and rainmakers to scale their efforts efficiently without sacrificing authenticity. Key topics include practical strategies for leveraging AI in sales, such as using prompts to create customized buyer personas, developing targeted outreach campaigns, and employing AI tools like OpenAI, BARD, and CLAWD for brainstorming and content generation. C.J. discusses adaptive selling, where AI assists in understanding clients' intrinsic motivations through personality assessments and behavioral data. He also highlights the importance of grounding AI to trusted data sources to avoid inaccuracies and shares real-world examples of how AI-powered strategies have helped him build meaningful professional relationships. This episode offers actionable advice for sales professionals and rainmakers looking to integrate AI into their business development processes. Visit: https://therainmakingpodcast.com/ ---------------------------------------- CJ Webster is passionate about law, business, and sales, and he is recognized as a Legal Tech Leader. With a career built on his passion for law, business, and sales, CJ Webster has embraced the world of legal tech. From his early days as a court runner to leading multi-million dollar organizations, he has honed his expertise in driving success. As the Founder of C Webster Consulting, LLC, CJ Webster is dedicated to empowering legal tech companies with data-driven strategies for competitive advantage, scalable growth, and investor attraction. Having been a leader at a top Legal Tech company, CJ possesses extensive domain knowledge and a proven track record of generating multimillion-dollar sales gains. He brings expertise in market analysis, competitive intelligence, and strategic business development, excelling in maximizing growth and customer experience. ---------------------------------------- This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link: https://www.leopardsolutions.com/index.php/request-a-demo/ Links: Go to https://www.youtube.com/@cj60secsuccesstips/shorts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Chris Schembra, Wall Street Journal bestselling author of Gratitude Through Hard Times and Gratitude in Pasta, about how human connection is the future of rainmaking. Chris, known as the “gratitude guru” by USA Today, shares his expertise on fostering meaningful relationships by connecting deeply with ourselves, our teams, and our clients. He explains that only 22% of global B2B relationships report being engaged, and only 13% are fully engaged, highlighting the significant opportunity for professionals to use human connection to drive revenue and retention. Key topics include the importance of presence and authenticity in building trust, the impact of employee engagement on customer engagement, and strategies for fostering deeper connections through inquisitive empathy. Chris introduces his “Empathy Express” framework, which leverages three core techniques: mirroring, labeling emotions, and asking insightful "what" or "how" questions to create psychological safety and trust. He also discusses how gratitude plays a crucial role in relationship-building, encouraging professionals to personalize appreciation based on clients' preferred "language of gratitude." This episode provides actionable insights for rainmakers looking to build stronger, more authentic relationships that translate into long-term business success. Visit: https://therainmakingpodcast.com/ ---------------------------------------- Chris Schembra is a values driven, heart led author and keynote speaker on a mission to cure the epidemic of loneliness and the crisis of disconnection in the modern workplace. Drawing on hard-hitting statistics, he shines a light on the wide-ranging impact this problem has on employee wellbeing, engagement, and the overall success of organizations. Through his experience helping spark over 500,000 co-worker relationships in the workplace, Schembra has come to understand that the macro level widespread disconnection is a symptom of a lack of deep human connection. It's this very void that amplifies burnout, exacerbates mental health challenges, and cripples employee engagement in today's organizations. Through his 8 years of work building team building and client engagement programs, he’s observed that leaders and their teams may interact on a superficial level but are not genuinely connected to themselves, their co-workers, their customers, or their larger communities. Schembra teaches how to make a shift towards authenticity and deeper human relationships as a means to combat this issue and achieve outsized business results. To tackle disconnection, Schembra presents a 3-step method for connection. This approach involves bringing employees into the present moment to acknowledge their humanity, diving into the past, while teaching them to express and receive authentic gratitude. He then guides them to approach the future with curiosity, questions, empathy, and inquisitiveness. This proven method, outlined in his Gratitude Experiences, transforms the method that employees interact and perceive their work. By solving the disconnection issue, Schembra shows that the benefits are profound. It's not just about personal growth; it also results in a heightened level of engagement and productivity in the workplace. He provides compelling research and statistics, such as the significant return on investment (ROI) in emotional well-being and the role of gratitude in boosting commitment and effort among employees. ---------------------------------------- This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link: https://www.leopardsolutions.com/index.php/request-a-demo/ Links: www.chrisschembra.com https://docs.google.com/document/d/1h-G0Jwd0zM77155Enm5lOwTptu4bHWjJQOtMLIXWlt4/edit?usp=sharing Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Dr. Howard Dover, author of The Sales Innovation Paradox, about why technological advancements in sales have paradoxically led to decreased performance. Dr. Dover explores how the explosion of sales technologies, designed to improve efficiency, has instead resulted in overcrowded outreach strategies, diminishing returns, and frustrated buyers. He explains that while technology has enabled sales professionals to scale outreach dramatically, it has also triggered defensive behaviors among buyers, making traditional best practices less effective. Key topics include the "Sales Innovation Paradox," where scaling sales activities leads to declining results, and the "SIP cycle" (Sales Innovation, then behavioral shift) that explains how buyers adapt to overused sales tactics. Dr. Dover shares real-world examples, including Microsoft’s successful strategy of human-assisted digital funnels that led to an 8x increase in pipeline and 10x in revenue. He also discusses how smaller companies can achieve similar results by focusing on relevancy, personalization, and understanding buyer preferences. This episode offers practical strategies for professionals looking to break through the noise and achieve sustainable business development success. Visit: https://therainmakingpodcast.com/ ---------------------------------------- Howard Dover University of Texas at Dallas Director of the Center for Professional Sales, Clinical Professor of Marketing and Sales Coach In the past few years, Howard Dover has helped to create one of the fastest-growing University sales programs in the country. As the Director of the Center, he consults with the Center’s partners on how to best identify, develop, and coach the rising generation now entering the business world. He also works with partner organizations to discover and deploy best practices in the ever-evolving business environment. The Alumni from his program perform better, have lower attrition, and ramp up faster than their peers as they work with Fortune 500 and start-up tech companies. His areas of expertise include digital disruption at the intersection of sales and marketing as well as sales automation/augmentation, sales enablement, sales recruiting, sales performance, CRM and CLV modeling, and sales coaching. He has been an invited speaker at numerous Sales, Sales Educator, and Marketing Conferences. His work has been published in such journals as the Journal of Interactive Marketing, Journal of Selling, Journal of Applied Business Research, American Journal of Business Education, and Marketing Education Review. ---------------------------------------- This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link: https://www.leopardsolutions.com/index.php/request-a-demo/ Links: #utdsales https://jindal.utdallas.edu/faculty/howard-dover/ The Sales Paradox https://www.amazon.com/Sales-Innovation-Paradox-Harnessing-Performance/dp/1632996243/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=sales+innovation+paradox&qid=1693404833&sr=8-1 https://twitter.com/DrHDover Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Brian Will, sales expert and author of No: The Psychology of Sales and Negotiation, about how professionals can master the art of sales by understanding human psychology. Brian shares insights from his decades of experience training sales teams, emphasizing that success in sales is not just about presenting a product or service but about anticipating and overcoming objections before they arise. He explains how professionals can build a structured sales process that helps clients make confident decisions without feeling pressured. Key topics include identifying the top four objections in any sales process and addressing them proactively, using the “Three Whys and a When” framework to qualify prospects effectively, and employing active listening and connective responses to build trust with potential clients. Brian also discusses how to break down the initial wall of mistrust that most prospects have, the role of scripting in sales success, and strategies for negotiating with confidence. This episode provides actionable techniques for professionals looking to refine their sales approach and close more deals with greater ease. Visit: https://therainmakingpodcast.com/ ---------------------------------------- Brian Will is the industry expert in sales and management consulting, and a bestselling author of the Wall Street Journal and USA Today hit book, "The Dropout: Multi-Millionaire" and his newest book “NO... The Psychology of Sales and Negotiations: 40 Lessons in Negotiations from a Street-Smart Negotiator." With over 35 years of experience as a serial entrepreneur, Brian has a proven track record of success, having created seven highly successful companies across four different industries, with a combined worth of over half a billion dollars at their peak. Today, Brian is a visionary business leader, owning a growing chain of restaurants in the Atlanta area, an insurance and technology company in Denver, and a residential and commercial real estate business in Georgia and Florida. His expertise in turnaround projects and ability to drive billions of dollars in sales have made him a highly sought-after consultant and speaker in the business world. Order Brian’s book here: https://www.amazon.com/Psychology-Sales-Negotiations-negotiation-street-smart-ebook/dp/B0C52ZJB3N ---------------------------------------- This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link: https://www.leopardsolutions.com/index.php/request-a-demo/ Links: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedropoutmm/?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y%3D Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheDropoutMM Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-will-07823b6/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxoxEUCYLFWi90uRiEuW09A Website: https://brianwillmedia.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Darren Wurz, financial planner and author of The Lawyer Millionaire, about how rainmakers can improve cash flow management to build long-term financial stability. Darren explains that many high-income professionals struggle with inconsistent cash flow, lifestyle creep, and a lack of clear financial planning. He shares strategies for structuring finances in a way that ensures sustainability, security, and future wealth accumulation. Key topics include managing cash flow fluctuations, creating a cash flow plan instead of a restrictive budget, and optimizing savings strategies to balance short-term enjoyment with long-term financial goals. Darren also discusses the importance of using tools like Mint.com to track spending, separating personal and business finances, and working with financial professionals to ensure accountability. He provides actionable steps for professionals looking to gain better control of their financial future while maintaining their current lifestyle. This episode is packed with practical advice for rainmakers who want to make smarter financial decisions. Visit: https://therainmakingpodcast.com/ ---------------------------------------- You’ve built a successful and thriving law practice. You have so much potential and so many ideas. But instead of feeling like you’ve arrived, do you feel stuck or behind in getting to your goals? Do you feel stressed, super busy and worried about the future? You’re not alone. Many law firm owners I’ve worked with started out feeling the same way. They didn’t have a clear plan for their money and so they were spending too much, keeping too little, and feeling a bit lost and disorganized. I specialize in helping successful, entrepreneurial law firm owners master their money so they can maximize their true financial potential. You make a lot of money—there’s no reason why we can’t make your dreams a reality. I’ll help you get crystal clear about the future you want for you and your family, create some big, long-term strategic goals, and formulate and implement a detailed plan to achieve those goals. It’s about so much more than retirement. It’s about creating the life you want. And for law firm owners that also means creating a strategy for your law firm’s operation and future that supports your personal goals. This includes law firm profitability, business strategy, succession planning, selling your practice, and more. Let’s make your dreams a reality. To learn more, please visit TheLawyerMillionaire.com. 👉🏻P.S. Check out my free CLE: Retirement Planning Strategies for Law Firm Owners at www.retirementforlawyers.com (1.0 CLE in OH, KY, and IN) "Plan with care. Live with courage." ® Office: (859) 291-9879 **Investment advisory services offered through Schmerge Executive Planning Services, Inc., a registered investment adviser. Wurz Financial Services and Schmerge Executive Planning Services, Inc. are separate entities.** ---------------------------------------- This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link: https://www.leopardsolutions.com/index.php/request-a-demo/ Links: Podcast: The Lawyer Millionaire https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-lawyer-millionaire/id1617888607 https://www.linkedin.com/in/darren-p-wurz/ https://wurzfinancialservices.com/the-lawyer-millionaire-the-book/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Dom Bertoncini, professional hypnotist and mindset coach, about overcoming limiting beliefs to unlock financial and professional success. Dom shares his journey from selling insurance to becoming a sought-after hypnotist working with elite athletes, demonstrating how shifting mental barriers can lead to significant breakthroughs. He explains that high-performing professionals often struggle with self-imposed limitations, and by addressing these subconscious beliefs, they can elevate their performance and results. Key topics include understanding the role of the subconscious mind in business success, using hypnosis and visualization techniques to rewire limiting beliefs, and adopting a mindset of radical responsibility. Dom discusses how professionals can take full ownership of their outcomes, reframe challenges as opportunities, and develop resilience by shifting their internal dialogue. He also shares practical exercises, such as sleep hypnosis and affirmation techniques, to reinforce positive mental conditioning. This episode provides actionable insights for professionals looking to break through mental roadblocks and achieve their full potential. Visit: https://therainmakingpodcast.com/ ---------------------------------------- This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link: https://www.leopardsolutions.com/index.php/request-a-demo/ Links: https://domthehypnotist.com/hypnosis/bookacall https://www.youtube.com/@dom.the.hypnotist https://apps.apple.com/us/app/dom-the-hypnotist/id6448846850 https://www.linkedin.com/in/dom-the-hypnotist-a7a59344/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100028019996575 https://www.tiktok.com/@dom.the.hypnotist?lang=en https://www.instagram.com/dom.the.hypnotist/?hl=en Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Kim Rennick, Director of Client Relations at Covington & Burling, about the importance of playing the long game in business development. Kim shares insights from her extensive experience in sales, marketing, and business development at top global law firms and explains why relationships are at the heart of every successful business interaction. She emphasizes that trust and authenticity take time to develop, and professionals who focus on immediate results often miss out on long-term opportunities. Key topics include the importance of curiosity and generosity in client relationships, avoiding transactional business development approaches, and understanding when a prospect is truly ready to buy. Kim shares real-world examples of business development failures caused by a lack of authenticity and provides actionable strategies for building relationships based on trust rather than pressure. She also discusses how COVID-19 has reshaped networking and the need to balance virtual and in-person interactions effectively. This episode offers valuable guidance for professionals looking to cultivate meaningful connections and create sustainable business growth. Visit: https://therainmakingpodcast.com/ ---------------------------------------- Kimberly Rennick is a dynamic professional within the legal industry, boasting a comprehensive background that spans various sectors of the field. With experience encompassing diverse roles, Kimberly has showcased her expertise across different dimensions of legal practice. Having held a prominent position in a major corporation, Kimberly excelled as an in-house representative responsible for overseeing external legal counsel. Furthermore, her journey extended to the realm of litigation, where she honed her skills as an accomplished litigator within a renowned law firm. This diverse legal exposure granted Kimberly valuable insights into the intricacies of both internal and external legal functions. Kimberly's aptitude also extends to the commercial side of the legal sphere. Her tenure as a sales executive and consultant for a distinguished provider of intelligent legal information enabled her to forge strategic partnerships with leading firms within the AmLaw 100. Her contributions played a pivotal role in enhancing the industry's landscape by facilitating access to cutting-edge legal resources. Currently, as the Director of Client Relations for one of the world's premier law firms, Kimberly remains instrumental in driving the firm's success amidst a competitive environment. Her adeptness in devising and executing growth-oriented strategies has been integral to achieving client retention and expansion objectives. Notably, Kimberly Rennick stands as a trailblazer in the application of Predictive Analytics, often referred to as "Moneyball," within the legal domain. Her innovative utilization of data-driven insights has revolutionized client engagement and retention practices. By leveraging predictive analytics, Kimberly has pioneered an approach that not only anticipates client needs but also propels forward the realm of client-focused legal services. ---------------------------------------- This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link: https://www.leopardsolutions.com/index.php/request-a-demo/ Links: linkedin.com/in/kimberly-rennick-a39a8b1a Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Sean Doyle, B2B sales and marketing strategist and author of Shift: 19 Practical Business-Driven Ideas for an Executive in Charge of Marketing but Not Trained for the Task, about strengthening new client relationships. Sean shares insights on how professionals can improve client retention by understanding behavioral decision-making patterns and addressing common pitfalls in business development. He explains that professionals often invest significant time in acquiring new clients but fail to nurture the relationship after closing the deal, leading to client churn. Key topics include recognizing key moments of buyer hesitation, overcoming buyer’s remorse, and leveraging behavioral science to reinforce the value of a client’s decision to work with you. Sean introduces the concept of "centricity," a framework that helps professionals align their sales, marketing, and customer success efforts to improve client engagement and long-term retention. He also discusses the importance of follow-up strategies, tracking why clients choose to work with you, and using data-driven insights to enhance business development. This episode provides actionable strategies for professionals looking to build stronger, long-lasting client relationships. Visit: https://therainmakingpodcast.com/ ---------------------------------------- Sean has spent the last 30+ years running a B2B sales and marketing consultancy helping executives of businesses grow and overcome sales and marketing barriers based on groundbreaking research in behavioral change. He's an author, speaker, and advisor for emerging middle-market businesses. Sean's expertise has helped executives of $5MM to $150MM companies scale their businesses and better leverage marketing through a comprehensive understanding of how buyers progress from unaware to advocacy. ---------------------------------------- This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link: https://www.leopardsolutions.com/index.php/request-a-demo/ Links: https://www.fitzmartin.com/ https://seanmdoyle.com/ Buy Sean’s book here: https://www.amazon.com/Shift-Practical-Business-Driven-Executive-Marketing/dp/1605440574 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Anna Rappaport, business development coach and former attorney, about how leaders of business development teams can maximize performance. Anna introduces the Six Working Geniuses, a tool developed by Patrick Lencioni, which helps professionals identify their strengths and align their work with what gives them energy. She explains how understanding these six "geniuses" can improve collaboration, streamline business development efforts, and help teams work more efficiently. Key topics include defining the six working geniuses—Wonder, Invention, Discernment, Galvanizing, Enablement, and Tenacity—and how recognizing these strengths can improve team dynamics. Anna discusses how business development leaders can use this framework to assign tasks based on natural strengths, leading to greater productivity and job satisfaction. She also shares insights on how law firms and professional service firms can leverage this tool to drive growth, foster engagement, and ensure projects move forward smoothly. This episode provides actionable strategies for professionals looking to enhance their leadership skills and optimize their team’s performance. Visit: https://therainmakingpodcast.com/ ---------------------------------------- Anna Rappaport, JD, PCC, is a former lawyer with 23 years of experience coaching attorneys and 11 years of experience mentoring and training other coaches. As an executive coach, Anna serves as a sounding board, focusing partner, and strategic resource. She assists clients to create strategic, business, and career plans suited to their strengths and preferences; finding the time and energy to implement these plans; and enhancing business communications. Anna has spoken at numerous conferences and provided workshops to law firms both in the U.S. and abroad. She is a contributor to The National Law Review and Law Practice Today. ---------------------------------------- This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link: https://www.leopardsolutions.com/index.php/request-a-demo/ Links: https://www.excellerationcoaching.com/anna-rappaport-lawyer-coach Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Stewart Hirsch, business development coach and former attorney, about the importance of creating an effective business plan for professionals. Stewart explains that a well-structured business plan is more than just setting goals—it’s a roadmap that outlines specific actions, fosters accountability, and ensures steady progress toward professional growth. He emphasizes that business development should be intentional, aligning personal and professional goals for sustainable success. Key topics include the three essential components of a business plan—firm-related objectives, personal development, and business development strategies. Stewart discusses how professionals can break down their goals into actionable steps, the importance of tracking progress regularly, and how to create a plan that is both structured and flexible. He also shares insights on avoiding common pitfalls, such as setting unrealistic goals or overcomplicating the process, and highlights the value of trust-based relationship building in business development. This episode provides a practical framework for professionals looking to take control of their career trajectory and create a plan that delivers measurable results. Visit: https://therainmakingpodcast.com/ ---------------------------------------- Stewart Hirsch has over twenty years of experience in coaching and professional development. In addition to coaching since 1994, Stewart practiced law for twenty-one years – until 2001, in law firms and in-house, including TJX, Staples, Welch’s and others. As an attorney, he regularly worked with and advised senior executives and took a lead role with teams on several business initiatives. As an executive and leadership coach, Stewart works with C-Suite and other executives as a sounding board, and strategic and tactical thought partner, in addition to assisting with communications and relationship building. Stewart has coached hundreds of lawyers and other professionals to increase business. He has spoken at numerous domestic and international conferences, and designed and delivered single and multi-session highly interactive workshops to professional services firms throughout the US. ---------------------------------------- This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link: https://www.leopardsolutions.com/index.php/request-a-demo/ Links: https://strategicrelationships.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/stewarthirsch/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this special episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love takes the mic solo to share practical strategies for assessing progress and setting goals for the second half of the year. Scott draws on lessons from his time at the U.S. Naval Academy, using navigation techniques as a metaphor for goal setting. He explains how professionals can course-correct mid-year by evaluating their current trajectory and making adjustments to ensure they reach their desired outcomes. Key topics include setting measurable annual goals across six key areas—business, personal finances, family, physical health, recreation, and mental well-being—along with strategies for tracking progress and staying accountable. Scott emphasizes the power of documenting key performance indicators, recognizing daily achievements, and learning from past mistakes to improve future performance. He also shares insights on personal development, the importance of intentional networking, and how professionals can build habits that lead to long-term success. This episode provides a step-by-step framework for professionals looking to refocus and finish the year strong. Visit: https://therainmakingpodcast.com/ -------------------------------- Scott Love is the founder of The Attorney Search Group, a leading legal recruiting firm which focuses on placing partners in global law firms, and the producer of The Rainmaking Podcast. In addition to recruiting in the legal industry, he speaks at business conferences on the topics of sales and recruiting and also advises recruiting firms as a credentialed expert in his industry. He is the author of Why They Follow, Co-Author of Rainmaker Confidential, and has been quoted in Forbes, the Wall Street Journal, Bloomberg, The American Lawyer, and dozens of business publications across the globe. He is a graduate of the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, and served as a surface warfare officer in the United States Navy. www.attorneysearchgroup.com Bullet Points from the show: Goal Categories: 1. Business 2. Personal Finances 3. Family 4. Physical Fitness 5. Recreational 6. Mental Health Recruiters, get over 20 hours of free recruiter training and access to our free Recruiting Workshops by joining www.theplacementclub.com. Free to join. ---------------------------------------- This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link: https://www.leopardsolutions.com/index.php/request-a-demo/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Renee Branson, certified resilience coach and mental health expert, about the economic impact of mental health on rainmakers. Renee explains that mental well-being is directly linked to professional performance, client relationships, and business development success. She emphasizes that while discussions around mental health have become more normalized, many professionals still struggle with burnout, stress, and the high-pressure demands of their careers. Key topics include the role of resilience in preventing burnout, how law firms and professional organizations can support well-being, and the financial costs of attrition when mental health is ignored. Renee also discusses how leaders can create a culture of openness, implement policies that promote mental wellness, and provide tangible support for their teams. She shares actionable strategies for individuals and firms to improve resilience, foster engagement, and retain top talent. This episode offers valuable insights for professionals looking to prioritize mental health while driving long-term success. Visit: https://therainmakingpodcast.com/ --------------------------------- RB Consulting was created to bring the power of resilience into the workplace so that people could cultivate mental well-being and organizations could maintain high-performing teams. Combining over 20 years as a mental health professional, educator, and non-profit executive, my passion and purpose is helping individuals, teams, and organizations cultivate resilience. After years of working with survivors of trauma and the caregivers who help heal them, I have learned what allows people to not only survive but thrive through their greatest crisis. The answer is resilience. Resilience is the ability to not merely bounce back from crisis, challenge, or change; it is the ability to bounce forward with growth and adaptability. It is not only trauma survivors and their caregivers who experience the impact of toxic and chronic stress. It can impact anyone in any profession. In recent years, the legal profession has begun to seek changes that minimize the damage caused by toxic stress, burnout, addictions, and mental health concerns. The same is true for other high-risk professions such as the finance, healthcare and non-profit sectors. As a Certified Resilience Coach (CReC) with a master's degree in counseling psychology, I provide clients with immediately usable tools to increase resilience, well-being, and optimism in the workplace. I work with lawyers, legal marketers, business professionals, non-profit leaders, and others to help them understand and incorporate resilience in their own professional lives and in the teams they lead. I administer the resilience assessments, presentations, and workshops on The Resilience Library™ for professionals and business organizations. These include law firms, practice groups, non-profits, and business teams within an organization. This allows leaders to address organizational strengths and weaknesses and to implement growth plans through coaching, consultation, and app-based tools. Common Use Case Scenarios: -On-boarding new associates -Newly formed teams/divisions -Management training programs -Organizational restructuring, mergers, large-scale organizational change -Crisis recovery -Underperforming/dysfunctional teams ---------------------------------------- This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link: https://www.leopardsolutions.com/index.php/request-a-demo/ Links: https://reneebranson.blog/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/reneebransonmancc/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Don Kelly, sales expert and founder of The Sales Evangelist, about mastering discovery calls to improve client conversations and close more deals. Don shares his insights on why discovery calls should be treated as a mutual research process rather than just a sales qualification tool. He explains that prospects often don’t fully understand how to buy, and the best sales professionals act as trusted guides, helping them navigate the decision-making process with clarity and confidence. Key topics include the importance of structuring discovery calls with a clear roadmap, asking insightful questions to uncover client needs, and using visual tools to simplify complex sales processes. Don also discusses how to avoid common pitfalls such as overwhelming prospects with too much information, assuming they understand industry jargon, and failing to control the flow of the conversation. He shares actionable strategies for using storytelling, creating decision guides, and positioning yourself as a consultant rather than a salesperson. This episode provides a powerful framework for professionals looking to improve their sales approach and build stronger client relationships. Visit: https://therainmakingpodcast.com/ ----------------------------- Don Kelly struggled as a new B2B sales professional. Fortunately, he was able to receive the proper training and guidance which has led to his success as a software seller and the formation of The Sales Evangelist as one of the world's leading sales education organizations. Visit the sales tips section of his website: https://thesalesevangelist.com/sales-tips-2/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/donaldckelly/ ---------------------------------------- This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link: https://www.leopardsolutions.com/index.php/request-a-demo/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Margaret Burke, founder of MB Law, about the importance of having a structured business development plan for long-term success. Margaret, who has decades of experience consulting with law firms, shares insights on how attorneys and professionals can create a simple yet effective plan to grow their business. She explains that many professionals neglect business development due to time constraints or perfectionism, but a well-executed plan can make client acquisition more consistent and strategic. Key topics include leveraging Google reviews, maintaining an active social media presence, and crafting a website that clearly communicates the value provided to clients. Margaret also discusses the importance of tracking and nurturing key relationships, staying in touch with referral sources, and setting aside time each week for business development activities. She shares practical strategies for making small, manageable improvements that lead to long-term growth. This episode offers a step-by-step approach for professionals looking to take control of their business development efforts and create sustainable success. Visit: https://therainmakingpodcast.com/ ---------------------------------------- Margaret Burke, President and Founder of MB Law, has decades of experience consulting with lawyers, Partners, and small to midsize law firms. She specializes in managing operations, finance, HR, IT, and business development to improve law firm operations, streamline processes, and scale revenue. She has advised and led acquisitions, relocations, succession planning, restructuring, and start-ups. ---------------------------------------- This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link: https://www.leopardsolutions.com/index.php/request-a-demo/ Links: https://www.mblawconsulting.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/margaret-t-burke/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Val Madamba, regulatory lawyer turned presentation coach, about how professionals can craft engaging and effective business development presentations. Val shares insights from her experience as a former FDA, Big Law, and in-house lawyer, explaining how professionals can use presentations not just to inform, but to connect with and persuade their audience. She emphasizes that a well-structured presentation demonstrates expertise, builds credibility, and positions the speaker as the ideal partner for potential clients. Key topics include how to structure a presentation with a clear outcome in mind, the importance of storytelling in making legal and technical topics compelling, and strategies for tailoring content to different audiences, from general counsel to industry-specific conferences. Val also shares actionable steps such as developing a "story bank" to collect and refine relevant anecdotes, using audience research to shape messaging, and ensuring presentations offer practical takeaways. This episode provides valuable insights for professionals looking to elevate their presentation skills and turn speaking engagements into business development opportunities. Visit: https://therainmakingpodcast.com/ ---------------------------------- Regulatory lawyer turned presentation coach “As a former FDA, Biglaw, and in-house lawyer, I know just how to translate legal and regulatory needs to the language of business - and just how to break through to your most demanding clients and stakeholders. With over 15+ years in practice, consulting, and training, I've heard - and delivered! - my share of boring, conventional presentations. We all know there's a better, more persuasive, and far more sustainable way to communicate. I've studied and refined the art of creating legal presentations that engage every audience and do justice to each speaker's unique expertise. And I can't wait to help you present your most powerful voice yet.” Links: https://www.valeriemadamba.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/vmadamba/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Tina Solis, partner at Nixon Peabody, about the legal and ethical considerations attorneys must navigate when making a lateral move. Tina specializes in trade secrets, unfair competition, and professional responsibility issues, particularly when lawyers transition from one firm to another. She shares critical insights into the risks, contractual obligations, and best practices for making a smooth and compliant move. Key topics include understanding partnership and employment agreements, recognizing clawback provisions and financial implications, and navigating ethical rules regarding client communication. Tina also discusses the fiduciary responsibilities attorneys have to their current firms, common mistakes that can lead to legal disputes, and the proper procedures for notifying clients and colleagues. She highlights the importance of working with recruiters and ethics counsel to avoid missteps that could impact a lawyer’s career and reputation. This episode provides essential guidance for attorneys considering a move and looking to minimize risk while preserving professional relationships. Visit: https://therainmakingpodcast.com/ ------------------------------------- Tina Solis advises businesses on issues involving trade secrets, unfair competition, and complex commercial litigation in state and federal courts. She also counsels lawyers and law firms on professional responsibility issues. Tina regularly represents regulators in federal court litigation related to the failure of banks. ---------------------------------------- This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link: https://www.leopardsolutions.com/index.php/request-a-demo/ Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-solis-39538116/ https://www.nixonpeabody.com/people/solis-tina-b Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Nick Hill, digital marketing expert and founder of MyConversation, about how professionals can turn cold emails into profitable business opportunities. Nick shares his insights on why cold outreach isn’t inherently annoying—it only feels that way when it’s done poorly. He explains that the key to successful cold emails is relevance, personalization, and strategic follow-ups that start conversations rather than push for immediate sales. Key topics include the importance of targeting the right audience, using high-quality data to ensure emails reach the correct recipients, and crafting messages with an "assumptive tone" to spark engagement. Nick also discusses the dangers of “proposing on the first date” in sales outreach and how professionals can instead build relationships through valuable content, insightful questions, and personalized messaging. He highlights the role of AI in optimizing outreach strategies and provides actionable steps for improving response rates and converting cold leads into warm prospects. This episode is packed with practical strategies for professionals looking to refine their email marketing and business development efforts. Visit: https://therainmakingpodcast.com/ --------------------------------------- Co-Founder of MyConversation.ai At MyConversation we've used over 30 years of experience of B2B sales & marketing, solving problems through technology, and driving revenue for our own businesses, to combine our humanized & compliant technology with a team of experts who understand how to start conversations with your ideal clients & partners. There are three key steps to doing this: 1 - Understanding your ideal client and how to get their attention (AVATAR) 2 - Knowing where to find them and how to contact them (TARGETING) 3 - Saying the right thing at the right time to start the conversation (MESSAGING) By analyzing extensive campaign/contact data across multiple industries for multiple clients, we're able to create optimized & humanized campaigns that provide the right information to help informed buyers say yes to your products/services (at a much lower investment than hiring an SDR). Email [email protected] if you'd like to learn more. Links https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholas-hill-b155494a/ https://www.myconversation.ai/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Davina Frederick, business coach and founder of Wealthy Woman Lawyer, about how professionals can attract better clients by refining their marketing message and defining their ideal client profile. Davina shares insights on how law firm owners, particularly women, can scale their businesses by identifying the clients they truly want to work with—those who pay well, respect their time, and align with their values. She explains that professionals don’t have to tolerate difficult clients and can proactively shape their client base through intentional marketing and positioning. Key topics include how to determine what makes a client "better" based on financial viability, compatibility, and service alignment, shifting marketing messaging to attract ideal clients, and overcoming money mindset challenges that prevent professionals from charging what they’re worth. Davina also discusses leveraging automation, refining business processes, and building a brand that naturally draws in high-value clients. This episode provides actionable strategies for law firm owners and service professionals looking to work with clients who align with their business and personal goals. Visit: https://therainmakingpodcast.com/ ------------------------------------------- For almost a decade, Davina Frederick has helped hundreds of women law firm owners increase their revenue (and profits!) by 30, 40, 50, and even 250 percent. She believes there's a way to wealth that doesn't sacrifice wellness. She knows this because she has lived it. Davina founded and grew her own successful law firm business with $5,000 in startup capital, $80,000 in student loan debt, and no backup plan. But she was hungry to succeed and confident that it was the right move. She hired an assistant, upgraded her office, added hundreds of clients, and drove revenue higher and higher. She was living the dream. But there was one problem: She was miserable. Davina was not just a litigator. She was the senior partner, managing attorney, firm administrator, and unofficial therapist for her clients and her team. She was depleted. Her marriage and health were unraveling. She started to worry she was going to drop dead from cardiac arrest before she found a solution. Hitting rock bottom forced her to think about what she wanted. She realized that what she wanted was more than just money. It was space. Flexibility to work when, where, and how much she wanted. Freedom to take time off without her business falling apart. So she took a leap: she launched a virtual law firm business with the help of a mentor who introduced her to the life-changing power of coaching. Her coach taught her that she could design a law firm that didn't destroy her life and health. In fact, it could enhance it. This changed everything. Davina built a business that ran itself. She worked less. She earned more. She took time off, and the business churned on. And now she takes everything she's learned, and she teaches other women law firm owners to do the same. ---------------------------------------- This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link: https://www.leopardsolutions.com/index.php/request-a-demo/ Links: https://www.wealthywomanlawyer.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/davinafrederick/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Bruce LaFetra, business development strategist and "The Client Whisperer," about why the traditional business development process is broken and how rainmakers can fix it. Bruce explains that professionals often focus too much on selling their expertise rather than understanding how their services improve a client’s business. He shares how shifting the focus from “what we do” to “how we help” can simplify business development, differentiate professionals from competitors, and attract more ideal clients. Key topics include the importance of thinking like your best clients, redefining referrals as a process rather than a one-time event, and creating alignment between business development messaging and client expectations. Bruce also discusses how law firms and professional service providers can improve their approach by engaging in deeper conversations with clients, identifying their real needs, and positioning themselves as trusted advisors rather than just service providers. This episode provides practical strategies for professionals looking to refine their rainmaking approach and build more meaningful, long-term client relationships. Visit: https://therainmakingpodcast.com/ ------------------------------------------ Bruce La Fetra is a business development catalyst and speaker working with attorneys and law firms to fundamentally change how and who generates business. Focusing on its Best Clients sets in motion a virtuous cycle where revenue grows, profitability increases, and the business development cycle shortens as the firm attracts more of its Best Clients. Clients call Bruce The Client Whisperer because he interviews a firm's Best Clients to reverse-engineer that firm's secret sauce and gain highly credible and actionable insights. Bruce consults with small to mid-sized law firms, coaches individual attorneys, speaks to firms retreats, and Managing Partner peer groups. Bruce earned a degree in Economics, cum laude, from Claremont McKenna College and an MBA from the Tuck School at Dartmouth College. He is also a trained facilitator. Bruce isn't an attorney, but he is married to one. Bruce La Fetra The Client Whisperer Eastwood Strategy [email protected] (865) 230-9900 (call/text) https://LinkedIn.com/in/brucelafetra short whitepaper outlining my approach with 3 quick wins ==> https://EastwoodStrategy.com/TRP ---------------------------------------- This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link: https://www.leopardsolutions.com/index.php/request-a-demo/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Alay Yajnik, business development coach and founder of LinkedIn for Lawyers, about how professionals can leverage LinkedIn to grow their book of business. Alay explains that many attorneys and service professionals overlook LinkedIn as a business development tool, often seeing it only as a job search platform. He shares how professionals can use LinkedIn strategically to build relationships, generate referrals, and position themselves as thought leaders in their industry. Key topics include defining a clear LinkedIn strategy, optimizing your profile for business development, and focusing on referral sources rather than direct client outreach. Alay highlights the importance of building an audience, engaging with targeted content, and maintaining consistent activity to stay top of mind with potential clients and referral partners. He also shares actionable steps such as segmenting connections, leveraging influencer relationships, and creating engaging content that attracts the right audience. This episode offers a structured approach for professionals looking to use LinkedIn effectively to drive business growth. Visit: https://therainmakingpodcast.com/ --------------------------------------- My firm enables law firms and attorneys to grow their income, take more time off, and reduce their stress. We equip our clients with the clarity, capabilities, and confidence to build their Perfect Practice: the income they want, the time off that they need, while dramatically reducing the stress that is wrecking their quality of life. My book, "Staffing Up: The Attorney's Guide to Attracting Top Talent", is available on Amazon. My Biz Dev podcast, Lawyer Business Advantage, is available wherever you listen. What Makes Me Different: My "secret"? I'm not a lawyer. I'm a Silicon Valley M.B.A. who has led a $100+ million service business and built a $5+ million service business from the ground up. I put this experience to use with our law firm clients. When working with us, clients can expect an experience similar to what one would expect from a great athletic coach: ✔ Insight & Inspiration ✔ Knowledge & Tools ✔ Accountability & Motivation ✔ The occasional "push" ✔ Rapid Results Specialties Include: Law Firm Growth Strategy, Business Development Consultant, Law Firm Consultant, Practice Management Consultant, Lawyer Coach, Law Firm Marketing Consultant , Law Firm Growth Expert Check out our website for free resources and more info to boost your practice: lawfirmsuccessgroup.com Linkedinforlawyers.net lawfirmsuccessgroup.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/alayyajnik/ ---------------------------------------- This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link: https://www.leopardsolutions.com/index.php/request-a-demo/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Deborah Farone, legal marketing expert and author of Best Practices in Law Firm Business Development and Marketing, about how law firms can refine their marketing and business development strategies to stay competitive. Deborah shares insights from her extensive experience as a former CMO and consultant, highlighting the common pitfalls firms face when trying to generate new business and the importance of having a strategic, long-term approach. Key topics include why not all partners are naturally skilled at business development and how firms can provide the right training and support, the importance of role models in shaping a firm’s rainmaking culture, and how firms often jump into marketing tactics without a clear plan. Deborah also discusses the power of strategic networking, the role of business development training in law firm retreats, and how professionals can build and sustain valuable client relationships. This episode provides actionable strategies for law firm leaders and professionals looking to elevate their marketing efforts and generate meaningful client growth. Visit: https://therainmakingpodcast.com/ ------------------------------------ Deborah Farone has had the unique opportunity to play a role in developing the best practices in law firm marketing by working with the most respected and demanding professionals in the world. Her advisory practice focuses on helping professional service firms and individual lawyers in the US and abroad with their marketing strategy and department creation. She is known for business development training and development and strategic planning, as well as speaking at law firm partner retreats and workshops on related topics. Deborah is the author of the best-selling legal marketing book, “Best Practices: Marketing and Business Development for Law Firms” (PLI 2019), a work based on more than 60 interviews with successful law firm leaders and marketers, general counsel, and innovators in the profession. Over the past two decades, Ms. Farone has carved out a niche by distinguishing herself as the chief marketing officer of two of the United States’ most prestigious law firms, Cravath Swaine & Moore LLP and Debevoise & Plimpton LLP. Prior to diving into the legal marketing profession, she honed her business development and communications skills by working at the global management consulting firm Towers Perrin, now Willis Towers Watson, In her early days, she worked both in the new business department and as an account executive at Ketchum Communications, where she represented a large publicly-owned, technology-based toy company based in South San Francisco. Ms. Farone has been involved in the academic arena. She recently spoke at University of Pennsylvania’s Carey Law School, Cornell Law School, and Fordham Law School, and she has served as an adjunct Assistant Professor on the faculty of New York University. While at NYU, she developed and taught several courses, including “Effective Marketing and Public Relations for Professional Service Companies” and “Marketing and Public Relations for Law Firms,” the first course of its kind offered by a major university to ensure that law firms were creating operational business development departments. ---------------------------------------- This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link: https://www.leopardsolutions.com/index.php/request-a-demo/ Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahfarone/ Order Deborah’s book Best Practices in Law Firm Business Development and Marketing here: https://deborahfarone.com/best-practices/ For other resources and articles from Deborah, click here: https://linktr.ee/DeborahFarone Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Frank Kitchen, professional speaker and workplace culture expert, about how organizations can create a work environment that stimulates productivity and profits. Frank, known as the “Mindset Master Chef,” shares his insights on crafting a workplace culture where employees feel valued, engaged, and motivated to contribute at their highest levels. He emphasizes that culture is not just about leadership decisions but about fostering an environment where everyone can grow both personally and professionally. Key topics include defining workplace culture as an environment that stimulates growth, fostering collaboration between leadership and employees, and modeling behaviors that encourage contribution and engagement. Frank shares practical strategies for leaders to build trust, integrate new employees effectively, and retain top talent by focusing on development and mentorship. He also introduces the concept of “living fresh,” where organizations commit to helping employees achieve their personal and professional goals, creating a workplace people hunger to be a part of. This episode provides actionable insights for leaders looking to build a culture that drives both success and satisfaction. Visit: https://therainmakingpodcast.com/ -------------------------------------------------- Frank Kitchen, CSP is “The Mindset Master Chef. He works with Organizations around the world Organizations who want to Create a Workplace Culture their People Hunger For! Based in Phoenix, Arizona. Frank speaks on crafting the mindset needed to stimulate a workplace culture that positively impacts career advancement, productivity, and profits. He is a highly requested Keynote Speaker who recently was recognized as one of the top Professional Speakers in the world by earning his Certified Speaking Professional (CSP) designation from the National Speakers Association. Frank's "Kitchen Inspired" programs have been shared with professional associations, corporations, schools, colleges, universities, nonprofits, and civic groups around the world. When he isn’t speaking, Frank practices what he teaches. He currently serves as a volunteer and Board Chair for the Non-Profit organization Hustle PHX. Their team of staff and volunteers provide aspiring entrepreneurs in underserved urban communities with the resources needed to start and operate thriving businesses. To invite Frank to work with your team, please visit www.frankkitchen.com and learn more about his Keynote Speeches, Coaching Programs, and Books. ---------------------------------------- This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link: https://www.leopardsolutions.com/index.php/request-a-demo/ Links https://www.linkedin.com/in/frankkitchen/ www.frankkitchen.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Jim Ries, Director of Business Development at Offit Kurman, about proven strategies for attracting new clients. Jim shares his approach to business development, emphasizing the importance of proactive networking, consistent touchpoints, and positioning oneself as a valuable resource. He explains that building meaningful relationships—not just selling—is the key to long-term client acquisition. Key topics include leveraging in-person networking events by partnering with complementary professional service providers, creating structured virtual networking opportunities, and maintaining an active LinkedIn presence with relevant content. Jim also discusses the importance of consistently staying in front of prospects through newsletters, industry events, and personalized outreach. He highlights how business owners are often underserved by their current service providers, creating a prime opportunity for professionals to step in and build trust. This episode provides actionable insights for professionals looking to expand their client base through relationship-driven business development. Visit: https://therainmakingpodcast.com/ ----------------------------------- As Director of Business Development, Jim Ries drives revenue growth for Offit Kurman by helping business leaders and families of wealth address some of their most difficult challenges. Jim has access to a deep network of over 270 attorneys, and he is able to connect his clients to the right attorney who can resolve their legal disputes and protect their assets. Jim is a master networker, and his high-level connections call him for solutions when they don’t know who to call. Let Jim be your Legal Concierge. https://www.linkedin.com/in/jries/ Subscribe to Jim’s newsletter: https://offitkurman.com/java-with-jim/ ---------------------------------------- This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link: https://www.leopardsolutions.com/index.php/request-a-demo/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Phil Jones, internationally acclaimed author and sales expert, about the power of using the right words to influence and persuade in business conversations. Phil, author of Exactly What to Say, shares how professionals can craft effective messaging that drives results by being intentional with their language. He explains that the difference between good and great salespeople often comes down to word choices and the ability to anticipate objections before they arise. Key topics include the importance of pre-planning conversations rather than improvising, recognizing and addressing known objections early, and focusing on three critical conversations: one personal, one leadership-related, and one revenue-generating. Phil introduces techniques to help professionals refine their communication, structure conversations to avoid resistance, and build trust through strategic questioning. He also discusses how organizations can integrate these skills into their culture to improve business development and client engagement. This episode offers valuable insights for anyone looking to improve their influence and close more deals with precision and confidence. Visit: https://therainmakingpodcast.com/ ---------------------------------------- You can read about Phil here: https://www.philmjones.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/philmjones/ Phil’s books: https://www.amazon.com/Exactly-What-Say-Influence-Impact/dp/1989025005/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1539165871&sr=8-1&keywords=phil+m+jones ---------------------------------------- This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link: https://www.leopardsolutions.com/index.php/request-a-demo/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Silvia Coulter, co-founding principal of LawVision, about strategic account management and how law firms and professional service providers can strengthen client relationships to drive long-term revenue growth. Silvia explains that firms often overlook the importance of proactively managing key client accounts, instead relying on passive relationship-building. She shares proven strategies for implementing a structured approach to client retention and expansion. Key topics include understanding a client’s business goals, aligning services with their strategic needs, and expanding relationships within an organization by identifying key decision-makers. Silvia also discusses the biggest challenges firms face when implementing strategic account management, such as internal resistance, lack of planning, and misalignment between client expectations and firm capabilities. She provides actionable steps for firms to build successful account management strategies, ensuring that clients remain engaged and satisfied. Whether you're in law, accounting, or consulting, this episode offers valuable insights into improving client loyalty and generating sustainable business growth. Visit: https://therainmakingpodcast.com/ --------------------------------- Silvia Coulter is a Co-founding Principal of LawVision. Silvia is widely regarded as one of the legal industry’s most experienced sales, key client planning, and leadership experts. Her experience includes working as a former strategic account executive and sales leader at a Fortune 50 company, a chief marketing and business development officer at two global law firms, and a consultant and facilitator to firms across the globe. Law firm leaders rely on Silvia’s experience and assistance with leadership development, strategic account analysis and planning, and business development strategy. She is a co-founder of the Legal Sales and Service Organization (Legalsales.org), a Past Elected President of the Legal Marketing Association, and an elected Fellow of the College of Law Practice Management. Silvia is the co-founder of BizDevGals, a certified businesswoman enterprise, to help women in professional services to achieve their revenue goals. She is a frequent speaker and facilitator at law firm retreats and legal industry meetings. ---------------------------------------- This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link: https://www.leopardsolutions.com/index.php/request-a-demo/ Links: https://lawvision.com/consultants/silvia-l-coulter/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/silviacoulter/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Rob Thomas, networking expert and author of Who Do You Need to Meet?, about how professionals can strategically build relationships that drive business growth. Rob shares his proven system for identifying and connecting with the right people, emphasizing that networking should be intentional, not accidental. He explains how professionals can refine their approach to make valuable connections that lead to long-term opportunities. Key topics include the importance of defining your ideal contacts, leveraging existing relationships to gain introductions, and maximizing in-person and virtual networking opportunities. Rob discusses how to approach networking events with a strategy, the role of LinkedIn in making meaningful connections, and why following up effectively is crucial for long-term success. He also shares insights on refining your network by eliminating non-productive connections and focusing on high-value relationships. This episode provides actionable strategies for professionals looking to expand their influence and build a network that generates business opportunities. Visit: https://therainmakingpodcast.com/ -------------------------------- Rob Thomas is the Founder and President of RobThomasGLOBAL, and the creator of the Rob Thomas Method (RTM). He is an entrepreneur and the author of his book entitled, “Who Do You NEED to Meet? As an Executive Coach, and a dynamic public speaker, Rob works with business professionals of all kinds to help them enhance their networking skills to help them achieve business and personal success. Through his unique brand of networking, built on the age-old adage, “It’s not what you know, but who you know,” Rob teaches and coaches business owners, senior executives, sales professionals, and entrepreneurs on how to Identify, Maximize, Refine and Nurture your network of contacts. He is also the Director of Networking for the New York City Chapter of the National Speakers Association. Rob lives in Milford, Connecticut with his wife Jen, and his two sons, Christopher and Luke. A few interesting facts about Rob: first, he can’t sing or play the guitar, but he did work at Walt Disney World and is an Eagle Scout. All roads lead to www.robthomasglobal.com for more information and social media tags. https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-l-thomas/ ---------------------------------------- This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link: https://www.leopardsolutions.com/index.php/request-a-demo/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Phil Johnson, executive coach and author of The Servant Warrior Leader, about the power of emotional intelligence in leadership and business development. Phil explains that emotional intelligence is not just about managing emotions but about overcoming fear and resistance to change. He shares how professionals can develop self-awareness, build trust, and inspire discretionary effort from their teams and clients to achieve greater success. Key topics include understanding how emotional intelligence impacts leadership, the science behind energy exchange in relationships, and the role of mirror neurons in building trust and influence. Phil discusses how professionals unconsciously give away their energy and how they can reclaim it to become more effective leaders. He also covers practical strategies for overcoming resistance to change, shifting from ego-driven interactions to authentic leadership, and fostering a high-trust, high-engagement culture. This episode provides valuable insights for anyone looking to enhance their leadership impact and drive long-term business success. Visit: https://therainmakingpodcast.com/ ------------------------------------ The Master of Business Leadership program has been proven to offer executives a wealth of advantages. The curriculum was developed to acknowledge the challenges individuals and companies are facing both now and in the future. In addition to emotional intelligence, the program develops inspirational leadership, higher consciousness, and all the other necessary skills that have been proven to build a successful life, career, and organization. MBL alumni are living in the US, Canada, UK, Europe, Japan, Germany, Bosnia, Africa, Australia, the Middle East, and Saudi Arabia. “A very elegant system that works.” Rebecca Mih, PhD Berkeley Connect with Phil Johnson on Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/philipjpjohnson/ MBL Alumni Videos https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjfc3tV87p03JMDOXqDu8tQ EQ Daily Newsletter 📈 Subscribe https://lnkd.in/dqxVrFZK ---------------------------------------- This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link: https://www.leopardsolutions.com/index.php/request-a-demo/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with John Kormanik, former trial attorney and professional coach, about how legal professionals and service providers can identify their ideal clients. John explains that without a clearly defined target audience, professionals risk diluting their marketing efforts and attracting the wrong clients. He emphasizes that knowing exactly who you want to serve allows for more intentional business development and greater career satisfaction. Key topics include the three core elements of defining an ideal client—geography, demographics, and psychographics—and how professionals can use this framework to refine their outreach. John discusses how identifying a client "avatar" helps create more focused networking opportunities and strategic business decisions. He also shares insights on overcoming the scarcity mindset, setting boundaries to work only with ideal clients, and structuring client engagement for long-term success. Whether you're a lawyer, consultant, or business owner, this episode provides actionable steps to help professionals attract the right clients and build a thriving practice. Visit: https://therainmakingpodcast.com/ ------------------------------------- John R. Kormanik, Esq., is a Certified Professional Coach credentialed by the International Coach Federation, and also holds certifications as an ELI-MP, COR.E Leadership and Performance Dynamics, and DISC practitioner. Prior to launching his attorney-only coaching practice, John worked in the public sector as a Deputy Attorney General, in the private sector at a medium-sized law firm as both an associate and a partner, and also owned a law firm for 16 years. His 20+ years of experience as a practicing lawyer and law firm owner and a decades-long quest to be a world-changing entrepreneur, have equipped John to be able to guide his clients on a truly transformational journey. John lives in Boise, Idaho, and loves riding his mountain bike, being in nature, spending time with his family and friends, and starting each day with a walk with Olive, his yellow Labrador retriever. ---------------------------------------- This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link: https://www.leopardsolutions.com/index.php/request-a-demo/ Links: johnrkormanik.com https://jkormanik.pages.ontraport.net/avatar johnrkomanik.com/avatar Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Donna Griffit, global pitch and messaging expert, about how professionals can craft compelling pitch decks that win clients and investors. Donna, author of Sticking to My Story, explains that a great pitch isn’t just about data—it’s about storytelling. She shares how professionals can structure their pitch to engage their audience emotionally, making their message more persuasive and memorable. Key topics include the four-act structure of an effective pitch: identifying the client’s problem, introducing the solution, backing it up with data and social proof, and presenting a bold vision for the future. Donna also highlights common mistakes, such as leading with credentials instead of the client's pain points, and provides strategies for structuring presentations that keep audiences engaged. She shares tips on creating a simple, compelling message that resonates with decision-makers and turns prospects into clients. Whether you’re in sales, consulting, or professional services, this episode offers a powerful framework for improving your pitch and closing more deals. Visit: https://therainmakingpodcast.com/ ------------------------------------- Donna Griffit has worked globally for over 17 years with Fortune 500 companies, startups, and investors in a wide variety of industries, helping them create and deliver presentations, pitches, and messages; she knows how to spin raw data to drive results. ---------------------------------------- This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link: https://www.leopardsolutions.com/index.php/request-a-demo/ Links: Get Donna’s book here: www.stickingtomystory.com Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donnaabraham/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Gary Brown, founder of Hatcher Advisory, about how he successfully scaled his accounting firm from two people to over 30 employees. Gary shares his insights on what it takes to grow a professional services firm, emphasizing the importance of investing in leadership development, building a strong culture, and focusing on high-quality client acquisition. He explains that while revenue growth is important, long-term success comes from developing people and creating an environment where employees feel engaged and motivated. Key topics include how to implement structured leadership training for both senior and junior team members, why company culture should prioritize joy and engagement, and the impact of selecting the right clients to maintain profitability and workplace satisfaction. Gary also shares lessons learned from rapid growth, including the importance of balancing expansion with financial stability and adapting to unexpected challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic. This episode offers valuable takeaways for firm owners and professionals looking to build a thriving, people-first business. Visit: https://therainmakingpodcast.com/ ------------------------------------- Gary Brown, Chief Hatcher of Hatcher Advisory, knows a thing or two when it comes to assisting businesses through times of financial transition. With an extensive background in finance and management, Gary has provided clients with valuable advice and clarity on a range of topics – from strategic investments to ways to maximize profitability while simultaneously increasing sustainability. He is noted for his combination of wit, friendliness, and professionalism, making him a trusted adviser among his clients. Gary's down-to-earth approach to money management not only puts business owners at ease but also ensures they have the very best advice available. When it comes to financial issues, having Gary by your side is definitely a winning strategy. ---------------------------------------- This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link: https://www.leopardsolutions.com/index.php/request-a-demo/ Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-brown-80677316a/ https://hatcher.com.au/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Michele Correnti, branding expert and founder of Correnti Marketing, about how professionals can increase the number of high-quality inbound referrals. Michele explains that many professionals struggle with referrals because they fail to clearly communicate their brand and ideal client. She emphasizes that effective branding starts with identifying what makes you unique and ensuring that messaging is consistent across all platforms, from networking conversations to online presence. Key topics include defining an ideal client profile to attract the right referrals, aligning personal branding with business goals, and leveraging social media for greater visibility. Michele also discusses the stages of brand recognition—from awareness to preference and loyalty—and how professionals can build a strong reputation that naturally generates referrals. She shares practical tips on refining messaging, ensuring consistency across LinkedIn and websites, and using strategic content to stay top-of-mind. This episode offers actionable steps for professionals looking to enhance their brand and generate more business through word-of-mouth. Visit: https://therainmakingpodcast.com/ --------------------------------------- Michele was creating, managing, and executing marketing strategies for lawyers in-house for a law firm when she realized her true passion went beyond marketing into helping others find and discover the "why" behind their brand. Whether it is a colleague or an acquaintance, Michele feels an innate pull to learn what drives service professionals and business owners. She found that the best marketing strategies began with this "why" perspective and that most businesses miss this key step when developing and executing their marketing strategy. In 2018, Michele founded Correnti Marketing to serve lawyers and service professionals who are looking to dive into marketing but are not sure where to start. Our team starts by helping you discover your "why" to build + clarify your brand online. Michele is passionate about community, connection, and women’s empowerment. She is always looking to build up those around her. She also thoroughly enjoys a challenge and learning new skills, both personally and professionally. Outside of work, you can find Michele paddle surfing, in the kitchen cooking up a storm, spending quality time with friends and family, or—her latest challenge—learning to play pickleball! ---------------------------------------- This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link: https://www.leopardsolutions.com/index.php/request-a-demo/ Links: https://www.correntimarketing.com/resources https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelecorrenti/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Steve Fretzin, legal business development coach and author of Sales-Free Selling, about how professionals can attract and convert clients without feeling like a salesperson. Steve explains that many lawyers and professionals resist business development because they associate it with aggressive sales tactics. Instead, he presents a structured, relationship-driven approach that focuses on asking the right questions, building trust, and allowing clients to convince themselves that they need your services. Key topics include the importance of qualifying prospects before investing time in proposals, the four key qualifiers (compelling reasons to change, commitment to action, decision-maker identification, and financial readiness), and strategies for running productive client meetings. Steve also discusses how to take control of conversations by setting clear agendas, developing rapport, and leading with curiosity rather than selling. Whether you’re an attorney, consultant, or professional service provider, this episode offers practical steps to create a repeatable, effective business development system without the pressure of traditional sales tactics. Visit: https://therainmakingpodcast.com/ --------------------------------------- Driven, focused, and passionate about helping ambitious Attorneys to reach their full potential, Steve Fretzin is regarded as the premier coach, skills trainer, and thought leader in business development. Over the past 17 years, Steve Fretzin has devoted his career to helping lawyers learn what they never learned in law school; business development and marketing. The goal is for Steve’s clients is to live the best possible life with balance, control, and happiness. In addition to writing four books on legal marketing and business development, Steve has a highly-rated podcast BE THAT LAWYER and has been featured in the Chicago Tribune, Crain’s and Entrepreneur.com. He has appeared on NBC News, WGN Radio and has written articles for Attorney at Law Magazine, the National Law Review, the American Bar Association, and the Illinois State Bar Association. You can also find his monthly column in the Chicago Daily Law Bulletin. ---------------------------------------- This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link: https://www.leopardsolutions.com/index.php/request-a-demo/ Links: https://www.fretzin.com/podcast https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevefretzin/ https://www.instagram.com/fretzinsteve/ https://www.facebook.com/salesresults https://www.youtube.com/@SalesResultsInc/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Simon Severino, CEO of Strategy Sprints and author of Strategy Sprints: 12 Ways to Accelerate Growth for an Agile Business, about how professional service firms can double their revenue in just 90 days. Simon shares his proven framework for streamlining operations, improving client acquisition, and optimizing internal processes to create sustainable, exponential growth. He explains that by simplifying business structures and focusing on key revenue-generating activities, firms can achieve faster results with less stress. Key topics include the seven essential stages of business growth—awareness, interest, engagement, closing, onboarding, delivering, and retaining—and how firms can optimize each stage for efficiency. Simon also introduces the concept of the referral engine, a system that helps firms generate new business by securing client referrals at strategically timed intervals. He highlights the importance of tracking key performance metrics, structuring marketing, sales, and operations into separate functions, and ensuring business leaders can step out of the weeds and focus on high-level strategy. This episode offers a blueprint for professionals looking to scale their firm quickly and effectively. Visit: https://therainmakingpodcast.com/ --------------------------------------- Simon Severino helps business owners run their companies more effectively which results in sales that soar. Trusted by Google, Roche, Consilience Ventures, Amgen, and AbbVie. He created the Strategy Sprints™ Method that doubles revenue in 90 days by getting owners out of the weeds. TEDx speaker, Contributor to Forbes and Entrepreneur Magazine, and member of the SVBS Silicon Valley Blockchain Society. ---------------------------------------- This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link: https://www.leopardsolutions.com/index.php/request-a-demo/ Links https://www.strategysprints.com/ https://www.facebook.com/strategysprints/ https://twitter.com/strategysprints https://www.instagram.com/strategysprints/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/simonseverino/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnSFgJd0CrsEdQdO21txR2A https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/strategy-sprints/id1299008831 https://www.amazon.com/Strategy-Sprints-Accelerate-Growth-Business/dp/139860349X Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Jeff Kaye, CEO of Kaye/Bassman International and co-managing director of Sanford Rose Associates, about developing teams of rainmakers. With decades of experience in executive search and leadership development, Jeff shares insights on how firms can cultivate top producers by shifting from an individual contributor mindset to a leadership mindset. He explains that being a great rainmaker doesn’t automatically translate into being a great leader and that managing and inspiring a team requires a different skill set. Key topics include the importance of viewing team members as internal clients, building a culture of accountability and development, and balancing leadership with business development. Jeff highlights the power of situational leadership, treating people based on their individual motivations, and using humility to foster engagement and trust. He also shares practical strategies for identifying and coaching emerging rainmakers, avoiding common leadership pitfalls, and ensuring long-term retention. Whether you’re leading a small team or a large organization, this episode offers actionable insights to develop a high-performing, revenue-generating team. Visit: https://therainmakingpodcast.com/ --------------------------- Jeff Kaye is the Co-Chief Executive Officer of Kaye/Bassman International and Next Level Exchange and Co-Managing Director of Sanford Rose Associates®. For over three decades, Jeff has helped Kaye/Bassman International win Best Place to Work, workplace flexibility, and philanthropy awards while also propelling the firm to become the largest single-site search firm in the US. Fostering an environment of servant leadership, retention is unparalleled; over three dozen partners have been with the firm for over a decade. In 2007, Jeff used his Recruiting Training DVD set as a launching pad to grow Next Level Exchange, what is now the world’s largest training and consulting firm to the search and staffing industry. In 2012, he led the acquisition of Sanford Rose Associates and helped grow the number of offices by over 250% while growing the network revenues by over 1500% in less than a decade. Jeff is considered an industry expert in executive, professional and technical search; has appeared on CNN, FOX, Bloomberg, and NBC; and is quoted regularly in publications including USA Today, The Wall Street Journal, Business Week, Time, and Fortune. Jeff is also a frequent speaker within the staffing and human resources community and been featured in dozens of international training meetings and videos. He lives in Dallas with his wife, Tracy, and their three children. Track Record of Success for the Sanford Rose Associates Family of Companies: - Ranked as the 9th Largest U.S. Search Firm by Executive Search Review - 95%+ retention of all previously existing firms who have joined since acquisition in 2012 - Since acquisition, number of offices increased by just over 250% during which time revenues increased by over 1500% - Five consecutive years as #1 Business Services Firm by the Franchise Business Review - Over 240 recruiters hired and trained for our offices in the past 12 months - Parent company ranked as the #1 Best Place to Work by the Dallas Business Journal This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link: https://www.leopardsolutions.com/index.php/request-a-demo/ Links: https://www.kbic.com/team/jeff-kaye https://sanfordrose.com/ https://sanfordrose.com/welcome-to-sanford-rose-associates/management/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/jtkaye/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Joel Lalgee, social media strategist and Business Development Director at HireWell, about how professionals can leverage social media to build their brand and attract business opportunities. With over 173,000 LinkedIn followers, Joel shares his insights on creating engaging content, building relationships, and using digital platforms effectively to stand out in a crowded marketplace. Key topics include choosing the right social media platform based on your audience, the power of authenticity and vulnerability in content, and how to engage through comments before posting original content. Joel also discusses the importance of consistency, overcoming the fear of putting yourself out there, and using humor and storytelling to create memorable interactions. He shares actionable strategies for LinkedIn and TikTok, explaining how professionals can turn social media engagement into meaningful business conversations. This episode is packed with practical advice for professionals looking to enhance their digital presence and generate inbound opportunities. Visit: https://therainmakingpodcast.com/ --------------------------------- Joel Lalgee has a 8-year background in agency recruiting and currently works at Hirewell leading business development. He is a massive content creator that has generated over 200 million impressions in the last year on social media and has 175,000 followers on LinkedIn and 113k followers on Tiktok. Joel is not afraid to tell it how it is and provides real and authentic career insights from the lens of a recruiter. This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link: https://www.leopardsolutions.com/index.php/request-a-demo/ Links: Connect with Joel on twitter: https://twitter.com/humanheadhunter Connect with Joel on Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/joellalgee https://hirewell.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Todd Cherches, leadership expert, TEDx speaker, and author of Visual Leadership: Leveraging the Power of Visual Thinking in Leadership and Life, about how professionals can use visual thinking to communicate more effectively. Todd explains that people remember visuals far better than words alone, and by leveraging imagery, metaphors, and storytelling, professionals can enhance their influence, engagement, and clarity in sales and leadership. Key topics include using visuals to capture attention and improve retention, the power of storytelling to make complex ideas memorable, and practical strategies such as mind maps, flowcharts, and metaphors to simplify communication. Todd shares how professionals can structure their messaging visually to engage clients, make stronger impressions, and drive action. He also emphasizes the importance of being intentional with visual tools, tailoring them to the audience, and making communication more engaging and persuasive. This episode provides actionable insights for anyone looking to elevate their communication skills and become a more effective leader or salesperson. Visit: https://therainmakingpodcast.com/ ------------------------------ Todd Cherches is the CEO and Co-founder of BigBlueGumball, an innovative New York City-based consulting firm specializing in leadership development, public speaking, and executive coaching. He is also a three-time award-winning Adjunct Professor of leadership at NYU, a Lecturer on leadership at Columbia University, a TEDx speaker (“The Power of Visual Thinking”), and the author of VisuaLeadership: Leveraging the Power of Visual Thinking in Leadership and in Life (Post Hill Press/Simon & Schuster, 2020). For more information, go to www.toddcherches.com. This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link: https://www.leopardsolutions.com/index.php/request-a-demo/ Links www.toddcherches.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/toddcherches/ Todd’s book information: https://www.toddcherches.com/book Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Jeff Ifrah, founding partner of Ifrah Law and a recognized leader in gaming law, about how he built a niche practice and established himself as a go-to attorney in his field. Jeff shares his journey from government service to Big Law and eventually launching his own firm in 2009. He explains how he cultivated relationships, leveraged industry expertise, and positioned himself as a trusted resource in the online gaming and sports betting sector. Key topics include the importance of building a strong network, nurturing long-term client relationships, and delivering results that lead to organic referrals. Jeff discusses how attending industry conferences, staying connected with past clients, and consistently providing value helped him expand his firm’s reputation. He also highlights the role of trust, responsiveness, and being a "giver" in sustaining a thriving practice. Whether you're in law, professional services, or sales, this episode offers valuable lessons on developing a niche, earning credibility, and growing a business through meaningful relationships. Visit: https://therainmakingpodcast.com/ --------------------------------------- Jeff Ifrah advises online gaming and sports betting companies, digital advertising affiliates, and investors on their transactional, compliance, and licensing needs across the country, as well as in regulatory enforcement actions and white-collar litigation. He is a trusted advisor not only at the moment of crisis but all throughout the business cycle - from the beginning of a product launch, the formation of a corporation or licensing relationship, through the development of a marketing campaign, to a profitable exit. The growing online sports betting industry is spawning multiple public companies valued in the hundreds of billions of dollars. The valuable data assets collected by these electronic platforms offer ripe opportunities for M&A, so long as investors comply with the complex maze of gambling, privacy, and financial rules that may apply under state, federal, and foreign regulations. Jeff is the go-to lawyer for anyone wanting to mitigate these risks. Jeff represents companies in all areas of this rapidly expanding ecosystem, including startups seeking compliance counsel, investors looking for opportunities, government entities needing rule-making advice, and operators facing governmental actions. Founder of the Internet Development and Economic Association (iDEA), the non-profit association that advocates for the interests of the online interactive entertainment business, Jeff has wide experience and knowledge of the business and legal issues involved with sports betting, daily fantasy sports, social gaming, esports, iGaming, and mobile gaming, as well as cryptocurrency and blockchain technology. For companies that become targets for government scrutiny, Jeff’s litigation skills are without peer. He has been at the center of most of the important prosecutions and lawsuits in the online gaming industry, including the seminal Supreme Court case permitting states to legalize sports betting. His record of success has earned him international recognition as a white-collar criminal defense lawyer and litigator. Jeff has been recognized by Chambers USA for eleven years in a row. He is ranked in Band 1 nationally for Gaming and Licensing Law and is also recognized in the area of White Collar Crime and Government Investigations in the District of Columbia. This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link: https://www.leopardsolutions.com/index.php/request-a-demo/ Links: https://www.ifrahlaw.com/attorneys/a-jeff-ifrah/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffifrah/ Scott’s keynote speaking brand: www.thesalescasino.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Janice Litvin, workplace wellness expert and author of Banish Burnout: Move from Stress to Success, about strategies to prevent and manage burnout. Janice explains that high-performing professionals often push themselves to exhaustion, failing to recognize the early signs of stress. She emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and daily rituals to maintain mental and physical well-being, allowing individuals to sustain high performance without sacrificing their health. Key topics include identifying "micro clues" that signal stress, such as disrupted sleep, changes in eating habits, or emotional exhaustion, and proactively incorporating habits like journaling, meditation, exercise, and meaningful social connections to prevent burnout. Janice also introduces the STOP Method—a simple framework for recognizing stress, pausing, and reframing negative thoughts. She highlights the importance of workplace cultures that support emotional intelligence and well-being, ensuring professionals can thrive in demanding environments. This episode provides practical tools for managing stress, fostering resilience, and sustaining long-term success. Visit: https://therainmakingpodcast.com/ ----------------------------- Janice Litvin is on a mission to help leaders and teams banish burnout in their organizations so they can come to work healthy, happy, and ready to work. She does this through keynote speeches, workshops, and accountability groups. She is president-elect of the National Speakers Association, Nor Cal chapter, recertification provider for SHRM and WELCOA, and a member of MPI (Meeting Planners International). This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link: https://www.leopardsolutions.com/index.php/request-a-demo/ Links: https://www.JaniceLitvin.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/janicelitvin/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with John Livesay, sales keynote speaker and author of The Sale is in the Tale, about the power of storytelling in sales. John explains how professionals can transform dry facts and figures into compelling narratives that build trust, engage prospects, and ultimately close more deals. He shares how storytelling activates the brain differently than traditional sales pitches, making messages more memorable and persuasive. Key topics include the four-part structure of a compelling sales story: exposition (setting the stage), problem (creating emotional stakes), solution (introducing the product or service), and resolution (demonstrating the transformation). John also introduces the concept of “case stories” instead of case studies, showing how professionals can create emotional connections that help prospects see themselves in the story. He discusses the 5-5-5 Rule for overcoming rejection and building resilience, as well as techniques for refining a personal "origin story" to create rapport. Whether you're in sales, recruiting, or professional services, this episode provides actionable strategies to elevate your business development approach through storytelling. Visit: https://therainmakingpodcast.com/ -------------------------------------- John Livesay, aka The Pitch Whisperer, is a sales keynote speaker where he shows companies’ sales teams how to turn mundane case studies into compelling case stories so they win more new business. From John’s award-winning career at Conde Nast, he shares the lessons he learned that turn sales teams into revenue rockstars. His TEDx talk: "Be The Lifeguard of Your Own Life" has over 1,000,000 views. Clients love working with John because of his ongoing support after his talk which includes implementing the storytelling skills from his best-selling book Better Selling Through Storytelling and online course "Revenue Rockstar Mastery." His new book, The Sale Is in the Tale, is a business fable set in Austin, TX, and is about a sales representative whose old ways of selling are not working anymore. The reader accompanies the rep on his journey and learns how to use storytelling and strengthen their soft skills to improve their professional and personal relationships. John is a guest lecturer on how to leverage the power of storytelling in sales at multiple universities including the University of Texas at Austin (UTLA), Pepperdine Graziadio Business school, and the University of Chicago Booth School of Business and his book is now required reading for the UTLA course on Entertainment and Media studies. He is the co-creator of The Superhero U which is a community to help people discover their superhero power and live a life full of confidence and creativity. This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link: https://www.leopardsolutions.com/index.php/request-a-demo/ Links: Text the word pitch to 66866 and get the book's first chapter for free. https://johnlivesay.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/jlivesay/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Meridith Elliott Powell, business strategist, keynote speaker, and author of Thrive: Turning Uncertainty to Competitive Advantage. Meridith shares her research-backed insights on how professionals and organizations can not only navigate uncertainty but use it as a catalyst for growth. Drawing from her study of businesses that have thrived for over 250 years, she presents a structured approach to embracing change and transforming challenges into opportunities. Key topics include the importance of adopting a mindset that sees uncertainty as opportunity, making decisions based on core values, and listening to clients to understand shifting needs. Meridith highlights strategies such as leveraging collaboration over competition, anticipating change before it happens, and using proactive planning to stay ahead of industry shifts. She also shares real-world examples of businesses that successfully adapted to market disruptions and outlines three actionable steps for professionals looking to strengthen their resilience and position themselves for long-term success. Visit: https://therainmakingpodcast.com/ -------------------------------- Meridith Elliott Powell is a business motivational keynote speaker who gets her audiences to do the impossible – take action! Voted one of the Top 15 Business Growth Experts to watch by Currency Fair, highly engaging corporate motivational keynote speaker Meridith Elliott Powell delivers a cutting-edge message, rooted in real-life examples and real-world knowledge. Meridith’s presentations are full of powerful content, highly interactive, and fun. She helps her clients learn leadership development, sales, and business growth strategies to turn uncertainty to competitive advantage. This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link: https://www.leopardsolutions.com/index.php/request-a-demo/ Links: https://www.meridithelliottpowell.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/meridithelliottpowell/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Stephan Schiffman, legendary sales trainer and author of Cold Calling Techniques That Really Work, about how professionals can differentiate themselves in a competitive marketplace. With over 70 books on sales and decades of experience training over 500,000 professionals, Stephan shares his insights on effective prospecting, building trust, and positioning yourself as an expert rather than just another salesperson. Key topics include understanding that every business is a commodity and how to separate yourself by focusing on helping clients improve what they already do. Stephan emphasizes the importance of asking the right questions to uncover client goals, shifting from a “proposal” mindset to making a “recommendation,” and handling objections with confidence. He also shares how to navigate the modern sales landscape, including leveraging virtual meetings while still prioritizing personal connections. Whether you’re in sales, consulting, or professional services, this episode provides practical techniques to enhance your business development approach and close more deals. Visit: https://therainmakingpodcast.com/ --------------------------------- Stephan Schiffman has been a leader in motivational and sales training since 1979. He is a Certified Management Consultant and has trained and consulted to a wide range of corporations including IBM, AT&T, Motorola, Sprint, CIGNA, and a host of other organizations throughout the world. He has trained over 500,000 professionals in over 9,000 companies. Steve is the author of over 70 best-selling sales books: Cold Calling Techniques (That Really Work!), Stephan Schiffman's Telemarketing, The 25 Sales Skills they don’t Teach at Business School, The 25 Sales Strategies that will Boost your Sales Today, The 25 Most Common Sales Mistakes, The 25 Sales Habits of Highly Effective Salespeople, Closing Techniques (That Really Work!), Asking Questions, Winning Sales, Getting to “CLOSED,” Sales Just Don’t Happen and The Big Bang. This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link: https://www.leopardsolutions.com/index.php/request-a-demo/ Links: https://steveschiffman.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Phil Flora, VP of Sales and Marketing at Leopard Solutions, about building trust and rapport with client prospects. Phil shares insights from his 20+ years in professional sales, emphasizing that people do business with those they trust. He highlights the importance of authenticity, asking the right questions, and setting clear expectations to create long-term client relationships. Key topics include developing a client-centric sales approach, understanding the “buying journey” to align with client needs, and overcoming objections by positioning yourself as a trusted advisor. Phil also discusses how COVID-19 reshaped B2B sales, making virtual communication a key tool for building relationships. He shares actionable strategies for setting proper expectations, leveraging insights to add value, and maintaining consistent follow-up to strengthen client connections. Whether you’re in legal sales, consulting, or professional services, this episode offers practical guidance on fostering trust and driving business growth. Visit: https://therainmakingpodcast.com/ --------------------------------- Phil Flora, VP of Sales & Marketing, Leopard Solutions – Phil has been with Leopard Solutions since March 2020 and oversees all sales, marketing, and client support functions for Leopard Solutions. He has over 20 years of legal industry experience, working previously for ALM, Acritas, and Leadership Connect in a variety of roles but specifically focused on client development, retention, and satisfaction with law firms, legal recruiters, law schools, and legal technology providers. This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link: https://www.leopardsolutions.com/index.php/request-a-demo/ Links: [email protected] www.leopardsolutions.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/philflora/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Amber Hurdle, branding expert and CEO of Employer Brand Central, about how professionals can build a strong personal brand within a larger institutional brand. Amber explains that personal branding is not about self-promotion but about intentionally shaping how others perceive your value. She emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, strategic positioning, and leveraging branding to attract the right opportunities and business growth. Key topics include identifying your unique strengths through self-assessment and feedback, developing a subject matter expertise (SME) niche, and using content to establish authority in your industry. Amber also highlights the importance of LinkedIn as a branding tool, offering practical tips on posting consistently and engaging with your network. Whether you're in a law firm, consulting firm, or corporate environment, this episode provides actionable strategies to help professionals differentiate themselves and elevate their brand. Visit: https://therainmakingpodcast.com/ ----------------------------------- Amber Erickson-Hurdle helps organizations build reputations that attract, retain, and inspire top talent. As CEO of Employer Brand Central, Amber helps professionals connect the combined value of personal brands, employer brands, and business brands to increase market share and profitability, reduce turnover, and amplify satisfaction among customers and employees alike. Amber was recognized by Global Gurus for being among the top 30 brand professionals in 2020-2022, ranking #8 in the world for 2022. Although she is an in-demand keynote speaker, multi-award-winning consultant, and coach, she always finds time for her two adult kids, her Cavapoo Gibbs, and all of the outdoor activities she can squeeze in at home or on the road. This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link: https://www.leopardsolutions.com/index.php/request-a-demo/ Links: [email protected] employerbrandcentral.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/theamberhurdle/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/employer-brand-central/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Eric Fletcher, marketing strategist and business development expert, about the importance of defining a clear target in professional services. Eric explains that many professionals fail to attract ideal clients because they don’t have a well-defined target, leading them to rely on chance rather than strategy. He emphasizes the need to develop a specific client profile and align business development efforts with clear goals. Key topics include how to create an ideal client profile by focusing on industry, revenue size, and key decision-makers, as well as identifying "allies"—trusted professionals who already have relationships with potential clients. Eric also discusses the benefits of refining a target over time, mapping out business development plans in six-month increments, and leveraging strategic networking to build valuable connections. This episode provides practical steps for professionals looking to enhance their client acquisition strategy and achieve sustainable growth. Visit: https://therainmakingpodcast.com/ --------------------------------- As a former Chief Marketing Officer, advertising agency Director and broadcaster, Eric Fletcher has more than 35 years of experience designing and implementing communication and go-to-market strategies for global accounting, consulting, law, and other professional service firms. His communication has been recognized with national awards from the advertising, marketing, and broadcast production communities. In the business development and sales arena he has designed and led successful individual pursuits for as much as $500 million in new business. And he has trained and coached more than 2000 professional service providers. Today he advises leadership teams as well as individual professional service providers in the creation of frameworks for marketing and sales strategies that align with values and mission, and instigate measurable organic growth. Eric is a TEDx speaker, a forbes.com contributor, the co-author of two books, a blogger on marketing, business development, and leadership (since 2002), and keynotes on leadership, the dynamism of vision, and conversations that matter. He is a former member of the CMO Advisory Board for Thomson Reuters and the Advisory Board for the SNHU Masters in Marketing program. He and his family reside in the Austin, Texas area. This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link: https://www.leopardsolutions.com/index.php/request-a-demo/ Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericfletcher/ https://twitter.com/ericfletcher https://ericfletcherconsulting.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Lee Coffee, executive coach, professional speaker, and former senior military leader, about building high-performance teams. Lee shares his leadership insights from his experience in the military and corporate environments, emphasizing the importance of trust, communication, and emotional intelligence in driving team success. He explains how leaders can create a psychologically safe environment where team members feel valued, motivated, and empowered to perform at their highest potential. Key topics include fostering trust as the foundation of leadership, managing ego to encourage collaboration, and leading with emotional intelligence to navigate difficult conversations effectively. Lee introduces the concept of putting stress between the person and the task—not between the leader and the person—when addressing performance issues. He also shares strategies for managing uncertainty, holding difficult conversations, and coaching team members to maximize their potential. This episode provides actionable steps for leaders looking to cultivate stronger, more engaged, and high-performing teams. Visit: https://therainmakingpodcast.com/ --------------------------------- Lee N. Coffee, Jr. is an expert at Maximizing Human Potential. He held multiple positions of increasing responsibility during 24 years of Active Federal Service (AFS) in the U.S. Army, ultimately serving as the advisor to a Two-Star General. His talents have contributed to various industries, including Executives in Healthcare, the Department of Justice, Financial, Insurance, Prisons, Museums, and Police Organizations. Lee coaches to the human soul. The focal point in a coaching relationship is the well-being of the client. To achieve the best outcomes, Lee and his clients co-create a safe space based on trust, open communication, and mutual respect. He combines the creativity of storytelling with the analysis of philosophy, psychology, nursing, and leadership best practices to offer a multidisciplinary coaching synthesis. The central focus of a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion workshop are for participants to recognize the humanity of others. This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link: https://www.leopardsolutions.com/index.php/request-a-demo/ Links: www.torescue.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/lee-coffee/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Bruce Lafetra, business development strategist and speaker, about achieving clarity in business development. Bruce explains how law firms and professionals can attract their best clients by identifying what truly makes them valuable. He emphasizes that clients don’t hire professionals for the work they do—they hire them for what they can accomplish because of that work. By shifting their perspective, firms can focus on attracting the right clients while eliminating those who drain resources and profitability. Key topics include how to identify ideal clients, understanding why they choose your firm, and leveraging those insights to generate more high-value business. Bruce shares the importance of interviewing best clients to uncover their real reasons for working with you, using storytelling to highlight differentiation, and refining marketing messaging to remove self-centered language. He also discusses the "us, we, our" test—an exercise to shift the focus from the firm to the client. This episode offers actionable strategies for firms looking to build stronger relationships, increase profitability, and create a sustainable business development strategy. Visit: https://therainmakingpodcast.com/ --------------------------------- Bruce La Fetra is a business development catalyst and speaker working with attorneys and law firms to fundamentally change how and who generates business. Focusing on their Best Clients sets in motion a virtuous cycle where revenue grows, profitability increases, and the business development cycle shortens as the firm attracts more of its Best Clients. Clients call Bruce The Client Whisperer because he interviews a firm's Best Clients to reverse-engineer that firm's secret sauce and gains highly credible and actionable insights. Bruce consults with small to mid-sized law firms, coaches individual attorneys, and speaks to firms retreats, and Managing Partner peer groups. Bruce earned a degree in Economics, cum laude, from Claremont McKenna College and a MBA from the Tuck School at Dartmouth College. He is also a trained facilitator. Bruce isn't an attorney, but he is married to one. This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link: https://www.leopardsolutions.com/index.php/request-a-demo/ Links: [email protected] https://LinkedIn.com/in/brucelafetra Link for whitepaper: https://EastwoodStrategy.com/TRP Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Darryl Cross, sales coach and author of Cultivating Excellence, about building a high-performance culture for rainmakers. Drawing from his experience as the first in-house sales coach at Norton Rose Fulbright, Darryl shares how professionals can develop a growth mindset, embrace coaching, and continuously refine their sales approach. He emphasizes that success isn’t about working harder but about making small, incremental improvements that lead to lasting impact. Key topics include the importance of team-based sales, focusing on a core group of high-value relationships, and shifting from a transactional mindset to a client-centric approach. Darryl also introduces the concept of functional reserve—unlocking untapped potential by overcoming complacency and self-imposed limitations. He explains how professionals can apply lessons from elite training programs, such as those used by astronauts and top athletes, to build resilience and improve performance. This episode is packed with actionable insights for professionals looking to elevate their business development skills and drive long-term success. Visit: https://therainmakingpodcast.com/ -------------------------------- Darryl Cross serves as the first in-house coach for Norton Rose Fulbright where he builds scalable sales programs and helps partners build their own impactful practices that mutually benefit clients and the firm. He has more than 25 years of experience in the legal industry and is an internationally known expert on high performance. His experience includes serving as a law firm Chief Marketing Officer, Vice President of Performance Development and Coaching at LexisNexis, and Head of Global Sales Enablement for Intapp. Darryl also served as the head of the Sales Skills and Methodology global strategy team for Amazon Web Services (AWS) and was the founder of HighPer Teams, a high-performance consultancy. Darryl has researched astronauts, pilots, athletes, Navy SEALs, surgeons, trial lawyers, and other professions where the high consequences for failure demand a higher standard of preparation. He has spoken to over 10,000 lawyers and business executives from over 100 countries on five continents on how to maximize performance and business results. Darryl is an evangelist on using the power of team dynamics to improve personal performance. He is the only Certified Team Performance Coach dedicated to the legal industry. To recharge his batteries, Darryl volunteers as the Head Coach of the Washington (D.C.) Irish Rugby Football Club, speaks to audiences on physical well-being for busy executives and enjoys chasing his 4-year-old granddaughter around the playground the best he can. This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link: https://www.leopardsolutions.com/index.php/request-a-demo/ Links: Book: Cultivating Excellence https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B071NN3B43/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_hsch_vapi_taft_p1_i0 https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrylcross/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices