Episodes

  • 125: How Employee Reviews Unlock Growth, Accountability, and Freedom with Ashley Waters

    125: How Employee Reviews Unlock Growth, Accountability, and Freedom with Ashley Waters
    Mar 31 2025

    Are your employee reviews helping your firm grow or just checking a box?

    In this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Steve sits down again with Ashley Waters, an estate planning attorney from Tennessee. Hear them discuss how a structured, repeatable employee review process helped her firm grow and thrive. As her practice expanded, Ashley realized the importance of effective feedback loops and strategic delegation. These key elements have strengthened her team and increased profitability.

    Ashley shares how she initially approached employee reviews with uncertainty but soon recognized their role in fostering accountability, professional development, and a positive workplace culture. By implementing tools and strategies from Atticus, she gained the confidence to delegate responsibilities and empower her team members, allowing her firm to scale efficiently.

    Steve and Ashley also explore the importance of developing strong team leaders and the impact of proactive planning. Ashley learned about her employees’ goals and strengths during these reviews which led her to promote the paralegal who helped her start her firm to an office manager role. This created a support system that allowed Ashley to focus on high-value tasks while ensuring her firm operated smoothly.

    This episode highlights the power of intentional leadership, no matter the size or location of your practice. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on how refining your approach to employee management can create a thriving, growth-oriented law firm.

    In this episode, you will hear:

    • Strategic delegation and employee reviews as tools for law practice growth

    • Ashley Waters’ journey from small two-person firm to a thriving practice in rural Tennessee

    • Importance of structured feedback loops for team development and profitability

    • Transitioning from uncertainty to a proactive management approach

    • Challenges and solutions in delegating responsibilities and building a strong team

    • The role of communication and clear expectations in scaling a law firm

    • Embracing the unique contributions of lawyers in different settings

    Follow and Review:

    We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

    If there’s a topic you would like us to cover on an upcoming episode, please email us at steve.riley@atticusadvantage.com.

    Supporting Resources:

    • Ashley Waters Bio: www.waters.law/ashley-waters

    • Waters Law: www.waters.law

    • Episode 120: Hiring Smarter, Communicating Better, and Scaling Faster Using DISC with Ashley Waters: atticusadvantage.com/podcast/scaling-with-disc-assessment

    • Team Leader Certification Program: atticusadvantage.com/law-firm-team-leader-certification

    • Lori Pulvermacher, Practice Advisor: atticusadvantage.com/team/lori-pulvermacher

    • Law Firm Coaching: atticusadvantage.com/coaching

    • DISC Assessment: atticusadvantage.com/disc-assessment

    • Grow Your Law Practice with AI: atticusadvantage.com/workshops/grow-your-law-practice-with-ai

    Episode Credits

    If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.
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    43 mins
  • 124: A Deep Dive into How to Win Friends & Influence People with Doug Burnetti

    124: A Deep Dive into How to Win Friends & Influence People with Doug Burnetti
    Mar 24 2025

    What if the key to building a thriving law firm wasn’t just legal expertise, but mastering the art of influence?

    In this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Doug Burnetti, founding attorney of Burnetti P.A., shares how the book How to Win Friends and Influence People shaped his success in law and leadership.

    Doug shares how skills like empathy, active listening, and servant leadership are essential in any field. He discusses how attorneys can strengthen client relationships and build high-performing teams by implementing those values. Inspired by Dale Carnegie’s wisdom, he explains why treating others with respect, showing genuine interest, and embracing humility lead to a more fulfilling and profitable legal career.

    Steve and Doug also talk about the power of authentic communication in law firm management, the importance of admitting mistakes to build trust, and legal legend Gerry Spence’s storytelling approach to connecting with clients, judges, and juries. Doug goes into strategies for balancing professional success and personal well-being, emphasizing gratitude, leadership growth, and stress reduction.

    If you’re looking to improve client satisfaction, strengthen your leadership skills, and build a more fulfilling legal career, this episode is packed with actionable insights.

    In this episode, you will hear:

    • Doug Burnetti on the impact of servant leadership and self-help principles on his law practice
    • Insights from Dale Carnegie’s “How to Win Friends and Influence People”
    • The importance of empathy, active listening, and authentic communication in legal practice
    • Exploration of Gerry Spence’s storytelling techniques to enhance client relationships
    • The role of gratitude and continuous self-improvement in balancing professional and personal well-being
    • Tips for effective leadership, including admitting mistakes and fostering trust within teams
    • Strategies for improving client service and building strong interpersonal relationships

    Follow and Review:

    We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

    Supporting Resources:

    • How to Win Friends & Influence People by Dale Carnegie: www.amazon.com/How-Win-Friends-Influence-People/dp/0671027034

    • Episode 108: Breakthrough Growth: How Empathetic Leadership Drives Success with Doug Burnetti: atticusadvantage.com/podcast/breakthrough-growth-how-empathetic-leadership-drives-success-with-doug-burnetti

    • Burnetti, P.A.: www.burnetti.com

    • Doug Burnetti bio: www.burnetti.com/attorneys/doug-burnetti

    • Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals by Oliver Burkeman: www.amazon.com/Four-Thousand-Weeks-Management-Mortals/dp/0374159122

    • Contact us to learn more about the Trial Lawyer’s Great Practice, Great Life Program: atticusadvantage.com/contact-us

    • Atticus Law Firm Coaching: atticusadvantage.com/coaching

    If there’s a topic you would like us to cover on an upcoming episode, please email us at steve.riley@atticusadvantage.com.

    Episode Credits

    If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.
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    54 mins
  • 123: Breaking Free from Bitterness: The Transformative Power of Gratitude with Brother Curtis

    123: Breaking Free from Bitterness: The Transformative Power of Gratitude with Brother Curtis
    Mar 17 2025

    In this uplifting episode of Great Practice, Great Life, we explore the transformative power of gratitude with Brother Curtis. He shares profound insights on how shifting our focus from negativity to appreciation can cultivate greater joy, resilience, and fulfillment—especially in today’s fast-paced, social media-driven world.

    Gratitude is more than a fleeting emotion; it’s a conscious, daily practice that can reframe our mindset and improve overall well-being. Throughout this conversation, we hear how the transformative power of gratitude extends beyond personal happiness, it also fosters deeper connections and a greater sense of purpose.

    By making gratitude and service a priority, we unlock an internal source of fulfillment that enhances both personal and professional lives. From recognizing everyday blessings to acknowledging the often-overlooked contributions of others, this discussion sheds light on the rewarding impact of gratitude in leadership, service professions, and personal growth.

    Brother Curtis also leads a heartfelt meditation session, offering a tangible example of gratitude in action. His wisdom leaves listeners ready to integrate gratitude into their own lives, whether by starting their day on a positive note or expressing appreciation to those who make a difference.

    In this episode, you will hear:

    • The transformative power of gratitude in counteracting anxiety and stress
    • Developing a conscious, daily gratitude practice to foster joy and mental well-being
    • The role of gratitude and service in generating internal happiness and fulfillment
    • Recognizing and appreciating everyday blessings and often-overlooked contributions
    • The impact of gratitude in service professions and the importance of intentionality and compassion
    • Practices for integrating gratitude into daily life, including beginning and ending the day with gratitude
    • Expressing gratitude to both those often overlooked and leaders, creating meaningful connections

    Follow and Review:

    We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

    If there’s a topic you would like us to cover on an upcoming episode, please email us at steve.riley@atticusadvantage.com.

    Supporting Resources:

    • Brother Curtis Almquist, SSJE: www.ssje.org/br-curtis-almquist

    • Society of Saint John the Evangelist, Massachusetts: www.ssje.org

    • Episode 101: A Monk, a Lawyer and a President Walk into a Podcast: A Conversation Featuring Brother Curtis: atticusadvantage.com/podcast/a-conversation-featuring-brother-curtis

    • Episode 109: Breaking Free from Envy: Finding Joy and Focus in Your Life with Brother Curtis: atticusadvantage.com/podcast/breaking-free-from-envy-finding-joy-and-focus-in-your-life-with-brother-curtis

    • Episode 116: Breaking Free from Fear: Finding Clarity and Resilience in Your Life with Brother Curtis: atticusadvantage.com/podcast/breaking-free-from-fear-finding-clarity-and-resilience-in-your-life

    • My Great Life Planner: atticusadvantage.com/books/my-great-life-planner

    • Share Your Story on the Great Practice, Great Life Podcast https://atticusadvantage.com/podcast-guest/

    Episode Credits

    If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.
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    1 hr and 3 mins
  • 122: The Money-Making Power of Personal Relationships with Colleen Goldenfarb

    122: The Money-Making Power of Personal Relationships with Colleen Goldenfarb
    Mar 10 2025
    In this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Steve welcomes Colleen Goldenfarb back to explore how lawyer work-life balance can unlock professional success, especially for attorneys. Colleen dives deep into the powerful connection between a thriving marriage and a flourishing legal career, drawing from her personal experiences and the Our Great Life Couples Workshop. Colleen challenges the myth that financial success alone brings fulfillment, showing how integrating a strong, harmonious home life with your legal practice leads to true happiness. She shares actionable insights on balancing the demands of a legal career with a healthy relationship, proving that lawyer work-life balance is key to thriving in both realms. Discover practical strategies to achieve the balance you desire, including regular rituals like scheduled intimacy and strategic vacation planning to keep your relationship vibrant. Colleen also highlights the value of weekly meetings with your partner to manage family logistics and strengthen your bond, something that is essential for any attorney seeking harmony. She recommends tools like John Gottman’s Eight Dates and personality assessments like Myers-Briggs to deepen connections and navigate differences effectively. Learn how investing in your relationship boosts productivity and satisfaction at work, creating a fulfilling life rooted in authenticity. Whether you’re a seasoned attorney or just starting out, this episode offers a fresh take on lawyer work-life balance—showing how success in law and love go hand in hand. In this episode, you will hear: Exploring the link between a strong home life and professional success in the legal fieldColleen Goldenfarb's insights from her journey with her husband, Craig, to balance marriage and a thriving legal practiceImportance of regular rituals and scheduled intimacy to maintain passion in relationshipsHow tools like “Eight Dates” and personality assessments can enhance personal connectionsInstituting weekly meetings for consolidating issues and improving home efficiencyStrategies for crafting fulfilling vacations by aligning personal and relationship dynamicsThe holistic integration of life and career for a more fulfilling existence Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. If there’s a topic you would like us to cover on an upcoming episode, please email us at steve.riley@atticusadvantage.com. Supporting Resources: Episode 115: The Cost of Work Addiction and How to Reconnect at Home with Colleen Goldenfarb: atticusadvantage.com/podcast/the-cost-of-work-addiction-and-how-to-reconnect-at-home Craig M. Goldenfarb, Esq.: goldlaw.com/our-team/craig-m-goldenfarb Episode 061: The Secrets to Becoming an 8-Figure Attorney with Craig Goldenfarb: atticusadvantage.com/podcast/the-secrets-to-becoming-an-8-figure-attorney-with-craig-goldenfarb The Summit: nsslfc.com Our Great Life Couples Workshop: atticusadvantage.com/workshops/our-great-life-couples-workshop My Great Life® Planner: atticusadvantage.com/books/my-great-life-planner Eight Dates: Essential Conversations for a Lifetime of Love by John Gottman: www.amazon.com/Eight-Dates-Essential-Conversations-Lifetime/dp/1523504463 50 Things to Do When You Turn 50 by Ronnie Sellers: www.amazon.com/Things-When-Turn-Third-Milestone/dp/1416246371 Design Your Life: Weekly Meeting Agenda1. Wins 2. Where we’re stuck 3. Review 90-day goals 4. Review/update pending projects 5. Calendar call 6. Request something of each other for the following week 7. Hug Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.
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    59 mins
  • 121: Gamifying Law Firm Marketing with Michael Maddux

    121: Gamifying Law Firm Marketing with Michael Maddux
    Mar 3 2025
    Have you ever wondered how a marketing scorecard could revolutionize your law practice? On this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, join Steve as he sits down with attorney Michael Maddux, a trailblazer in civil rights litigation and a visionary in legal marketing innovation. Michael shares his path from an assistant state attorney in Florida to a passionate advocate for justice through civil rights cases. Prepare to be inspired by his strategic approach to overcoming legal challenges and commitment to setting realistic client expectations in the often complex world of civil rights law. Michael doesn’t just talk about winning cases. He reveals how he's turned any practice into a thriving business by gamifying marketing efforts with an inventive scorecard system. Discover how his firm transformed its culture by involving every team member in the marketing process, leading to a notable increase in case volume and revenue across the board. The marketing scorecard isn't just a tool—it's a catalyst that empowers his team, fosters collaboration, and positions the firm for exponential growth. From doubling personal injury cases to mastering content marketing strategies, Michael's insights are a treasure trove for any legal practitioner eager to grow their practice and enhance their work-life balance. Listen as he shares the secrets behind his firm's success, offering practical tips and strategies that can be adopted by any legal professional looking to foster a more engaging and productive practice environment. Whether you're a seasoned attorney or just starting, this episode provides valuable lessons in legal advocacy and business acumen. In this episode, you will hear: Michael Maddux’s journey from assistant state attorney to civil rights advocateOvercoming challenges in civil rights litigation, including qualified immunityInnovative marketing scorecard system for law firm growth and team engagementGamification of marketing efforts to increase personal injury cases and revenueSetting realistic client expectations in civil rights casesCollaborative firm culture transformation through shared marketing responsibilitiesPractical advice for legal professionals on integrating business acumen with legal expertise Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. If there’s a topic you would like us to cover on an upcoming episode, please email us at steve.riley@atticusadvantage.com. Supporting Resources: Michael Maddux: www.madduxattorneys.com/team Michael P. Maddux, P.A.: www.madduxattorneys.com Michael Maddux’s Marketing Scorecard: atticusadvantage.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/MPMMarketingScorecard.pdf Law Firm Coaching: atticusadvantage.com/what-we-do/law-firm-coaching Mark Metzger, Attorney & Practice Advisor: atticusadvantage.com/team/mark-metzger Glenn Finch, Shareholder & Practice Advisor: atticusadvantage.com/team/glenn-finch Episode 102: Holiday Marketing Made Simple: 5 Tips to End the Year Strong with Lori Pulvermacher and Aaron Rothert: atticusadvantage.com/podcast/holiday-marketing-made-simple-5-tips-to-end-the-year-strong-with-lori-pulvermacher-and-aaron-rothert Contact us to learn about our program for trial lawyers: atticusadvantage.com/contact-us My Great Life Planner: atticusadvantage.com/books/my-great-life-planner Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.
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    1 hr and 6 mins
  • 120: Hiring Smarter, Communicating Better, and Scaling Faster Using DISC with Ashley Waters

    120: Hiring Smarter, Communicating Better, and Scaling Faster Using DISC with Ashley Waters
    Feb 24 2025

    Successfully scaling a law firm requires more than just legal expertise—it demands strong leadership, strategic hiring, and effective communication.

    In this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, attorney Ashley Waters shares how she used DISC assessments to transform her solo practice into a thriving law firm.

    Ashley’s journey from a decade in the legal industry to launching her own practice wasn’t just about practicing law—it was about building a firm that runs efficiently and profitably. A pivotal moment at ClioCon led her to Atticus coaching, where she discovered the power of DISC in law firm management. By understanding personality profiles, Ashley optimized hiring, improved team dynamics, and refined client interactions to create a more productive and collaborative environment.

    Through DISC, Ashley identified the strengths of her team members, ensuring that tasks were aligned with individual skill sets. This strategic approach not only boosted team morale but also led to increased profitability. She also reveals how applying DISC principles in client interactions has enhanced trust, improved service delivery, and strengthened attorney-client relationships.

    Whether you’re struggling with hiring, leadership, or firm culture, this episode offers practical strategies for integrating DISC into your practice. Ashley’s insights prove that understanding human behavior isn’t just beneficial—it’s essential for law firm growth.

    In this episode, you will hear:

    • DISC profile as a transformative tool for law firms
    • Ashley Waters' journey from solo practitioner to successful law firm owner
    • Strategic hiring and team communication using DISC
    • Benefits of Atticus coaching programs for law practice growth
    • Practical applications of DISC in improving team dynamics
    • Insights into aligning tasks with individual DISC profiles for job satisfaction
    • Addressing common fears associated with each DISC profile for better team performance

    Follow and Review:

    We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

    If there’s a topic you would like us to cover on an upcoming episode, please email us at steve.riley@atticusadvantage.com.

    Supporting Resources:

    • Ashley Waters Bio: www.waters.law/ashley-waters

    • Waters Law: www.waters.law

    • Lori Pulvermacher, Practice Advisor: atticusadvantage.com/our-team/lori-pulvermacher

    • Law Firm Coaching: atticusadvantage.com/what-we-do/law-firm-coaching

    • DISC Assessment: atticusadvantage.com/disc-assessment

    • Episode 027: Putting the Wind at Your Back with Shawn McNalis: atticusadvantage.com/podcast/putting-the-wind-at-your-back-with-shawn-mcnalis

    • Grow Your Practice With AI: atticusadvantage.com/workshops/grow-your-law-practice-with-ai

    Episode Credits

    If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.
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    45 mins
  • 119: Substance Abuse Among Lawyers: Overcoming Addiction in the Legal Industry with Scott Spradley

    119: Substance Abuse Among Lawyers: Overcoming Addiction in the Legal Industry with Scott Spradley
    Feb 17 2025
    It’s no secret that substance abuse among lawyers is more common than we admit. Scott Spradley spent nearly four decades grappling with alcohol addiction, a struggle that cost him dearly, including the end of his marriage. In this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Scott shares his journey from denial to self-awareness and finally embracing change after realizing that moderation was not the answer. His story is a personal triumph and a beacon of hope for many in the legal profession who face similar challenges. We explore how societal expectations can often camouflage addiction and the critical need to develop healthier coping strategies. Scott recounts the pivotal moments that led to his recovery, including an honest confrontation with an addiction therapist and the decision to enter an inpatient treatment facility. Scott opens up about the difficult but necessary transition to sobriety, emphasizing the resilience and determination required to maintain it. His candid insights into the first year of recovery, supported by daily AA meetings and new passions like photography, provide practical guidance for anyone looking to reclaim their life from the grips of addiction. Scott’s journey highlights the importance of personal resolve, the power of community, and unexpected support. The episode underscores a touching gesture from a professional rival, Peter Hill, who managed Scott’s practice during his rehab without expecting anything in return. This act of compassion exemplifies the camaraderie and support within the legal community, proving that empathy can foster profound change even in competitive fields. Scott’s dedication to helping others find their path to self-awareness and sobriety exemplifies the enduring impact of kindness and community support. In this episode, you will hear: Scott Spradley's personal journey from alcohol addiction to recovery and the impact on his professional and personal lifeChallenges and prevalence of addiction within the legal profession, emphasizing societal norms and pressuresKey moments of self-realization and acceptance leading to Scott's decision to seek inpatient treatmentThe critical role of community support and empathy in recovery, highlighted by a rival attorney's generous gestureScott's transition to sobriety, supported by AA meetings and new hobbies like photographyThe importance of self-awareness, developing healthier coping mechanisms, and confronting underlying issuesScott's commitment to helping others in the legal community navigate their own paths to sobriety and self-awareness Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Supporting Resources: Scott Spradley Bio: www.flaglerbeachlaw.com/about-us/scott-w-spradleyLaw Offices of Scott W. Spradley: www.flaglerbeachlaw.comScott Spradley Seascape & Landscape Photography: www.spradleyphoto.comLevel Up Your Billable Practice Virtual Workshop: atticusadvantage.com/workshops/level-up-your-billable-practiceFind an AA Meeting Near You: sober.com/find-a-meetingFree and Confidential Support for Attorneys, Judges, and Law Students: www.fla-lap.orgImpaired Attorneys and the Disciplinary System by Richard B. Marx: www.floridabar.org/the-florida-bar-journal/impaired-attorneys-and-the-disciplinary-systemAddiction & Substance Abuse in Lawyers: Statistics to Know by Priscilla Henson, MD: americanaddictioncenters.org/workforce-addiction/white-collar/lawyersThe Prevalence of Substance Use and Other Mental Health Concerns Among American Attorneys by Krill, Patrick R. JD, LLM; Johnson, Ryan MA; Albert, Linda MSSW: journals.lww.com/journaladdictionmedicine/fulltext/2016/02000/the_prevalence_of_substance_use_and_other_mental.8.aspxWorkshop: Level Up Your Billable Practice: Unlock Hidden Revenue and Maximize Your Time(Use discount code PODCAST100 for $100 off your registration!) If there’s a topic you would like us to cover on an upcoming episode, please email us at steve.riley@atticusadvantage.com. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.
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    1 hr and 9 mins
  • 118: The Shortcut Lawyers Need: A Guide to Seamless Onboarding with Lori Pulvermacher

    118: The Shortcut Lawyers Need: A Guide to Seamless Onboarding with Lori Pulvermacher
    Feb 10 2025
    What if you could transform your law firm's onboarding process from a rushed, haphazard experience into a seamless and strategic journey integrating new team members? Last week, we explored the power of strategic onboarding and how a well-structured process can reduce turnover, boost productivity, and strengthen firm culture. But what does great onboarding actually look like in practice? In this follow-up episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Steve and Atticus Practice Advisor Lori Pulvermacher go beyond the strategy to break down the step-by-step process of seamless onboarding—giving you a roadmap to fully integrate new hires with confidence and clarity. The first 90 days are crucial for setting expectations and building confidence. We’re here to share strategies for success. Inspired by Mike Michalowicz, we explore how to create a memorable and engaging onboarding experience. This includes critical process training and understanding diverse learning styles. With hands-on training and clear goal-setting, you can shape new hires into confident contributors. They’ll be well-equipped to navigate your firm’s unique processes. However, onboarding doesn't stop at process training; key performance indicators (KPIs) are vital in ensuring full integration during the critical 60-90-day period. We'll discuss the importance of transparent communication and how tailored KPIs can facilitate autonomy and trust within your team. We also touch on potential challenges, such as the resentment of longer-tenured employees and strategies for continuous improvement. Whether you're a firm leader or looking to enhance team culture and performance, this episode offers a wealth of insights to elevate your onboarding process. In this episode, you will hear: Importance of a comprehensive onboarding process for law firmsInsights from Lori Pulvermacher on creating a New Hire Onboarding GuideEmphasis on preparing new hires before their first day and integrating them effectivelyAddressing different learning styles and providing robust trainingRole of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) in guiding new hires to autonomyStrategies for fostering a positive team culture and reducing resentment from existing staffThe evolving nature of KPIs and their impact on firm performance and growth Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. If there’s a topic you would like us to cover on an upcoming episode, please email us at steve.riley@atticusadvantage.com. Supporting Resources: Download: New Hire Onboarding Guide for Law Firms atticusadvantage.com/worksheets/new-hire-onboarding-guide Lori Pulvermacher, Practice Advisor: atticusadvantage.com/team/lori-pulvermacher Law Firm Coaching: atticusadvantage.com/coaching Episode 117: Onboarding as a Competitive Advantage: 7 Essential Tips for Law Firms with Lori Pulvermacher: atticusadvantage.com/podcast/strategic-onboarding-for-law-firmsAll In: How Great Leaders Build Unstoppable Teams by Mike Michalowicz: mikemichalowicz.com/all-inTeam Leader Certification Program: atticusadvantage.com/law-firm-team-leader-certification Build My Great Team: atticusadvantage.com/staffing Level Up Your Billable Practice: atticusadvantage.com/workshops/level-up-your-billable-practiceEpisode 050: Why I Love Conflict with Lori Pulvermacher: atticusadvantage.com/podcast/why-i-love-conflict-with-lori-pulvermacher Episode 092: You’re Late Again! Tips on Navigating Workplace Expectation, Communication, and Other Fun Challenges with Lori Pulvermacher: atticusadvantage.com/podcast/youre-late-again-tips-on-navigating-workplace-expectation-communication-and-other-fun-challenges-with-lori-pulvermacher Episode 102: Holiday Marketing Made Simple: 5 Tips to End the Year Strong with Lori Pulvermacher and Aaron Rothert: atticusadvantage.com/podcast/holiday-marketing-made-simple-5-tips-to-end-the-year-strong-with-lori-pulvermacher-and-aaron-rothert Episode 103: Breaking the Sales Stereotype: A New Approach for Lawyers with Lori Pulvermacher: atticusadvantage.com/podcast/breaking-the-sales-stereotype-a-new-approach-for-lawyers-with-lori-pulvermacher Get a complimentary Practice Growth Diagnostic (use coupon code PGDFREE at checkout) Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.
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    56 mins