15 Minutes Share Your Voice

This week, we're thrilled to welcome Nirit Cohen, a leading HR strategist and thought leader on the Future of Work. With 30 years of global experience at Intel in HR and M&A leadership, Nirit bridges emerging trends with actionable insights to help organizations thrive in an evolving landscape. She's a Forbes columnist, author, and sought-after speaker with deep expertise in workforce transformation. Tune in for an eye-opening conversation on the trends shaping tomorrow's workforce and how to future-proof your career and organization. "Back is not a direction into the future. And saying, Let's go back into the office or back to the way things were, because frankly, if we're honest, they weren't that t right. We talked about work-life balance for a really long time. We talked about women not participating in the workforce because of families. We talked about diversity issues because some people don't fit into the boxes of how we defined work. So we need to redesign. And we need to redesign given the tools we have, which give us more choices, and more flexibility, and more personalization."

Today's episode covers how the COVID-19 pandemic has reshaped the future of work for both employers and employees, expanding the talent pool for those open to redefining how and where work can be done. We'll also discuss the evolving social contract of work, especially as new generations enter the workforce with different expectations. Connect with Nirit: https://www.linkedin.com/in/niritcohen/

Subscribe to Nirit's Newsletter: https://niritcohen.substack.com/?r=39zw1x&utm_campaign=subscribe-page-share-screen&utm_medium=web Recorded on 9/5/2024

Brian Beckcom is the Founding Partner and Owner of VB Attorneys, a personal injury law firm based in Houston, Texas. As a board-certified personal injury trial lawyer and recognized Texas Super Lawyer for 14 years in a row, Brian has secured multimillion-dollar verdicts and settlements, earning his firm a reputation for litigating against major corporations and insurance companies. In addition to his legal work, Brian hosts the Lessons From Leaders podcast, showcasing esteemed guests and leadership insights. His unique background in computer science and philosophy informs his approach to law and has bolstered his firm's use of technology in law applications.

What happens when law intersects with the worlds of philosophy and technology? Can a background in these seemingly disparate fields give someone an edge in the courtroom or in running a successful business?

According to Brian Beckcom, a board-certified personal injury trial lawyer with over 20 years of experience, the key lies in a unique approach to problem-solving. He highlights that his dual degrees in computer science and philosophy allow him to think strategically and critically, whether dissecting a legal argument or analyzing data from a complex case. This combination of analytical thinking and ethical reasoning gives him an edge in both litigation and business management, enabling him to investigate, innovate, and adapt in ways that traditional methods may miss.

In this episode of 15 Minutes, host Chad Franzen sits down with Brian Beckcom, Founding Partner and Owner of VB Attorneys, to discuss how his background in philosophy and tech has influenced his approach to law. Brian shares his thoughts on the importance of strategic persistence in litigation, how technology like AI is reshaping the legal landscape, and why philosophy is a key tool for understanding legal ethics. Brian also shares insights from his Lessons From Leaders podcast and offers advice to aspiring lawyers.

In this week's episode of the AmiSights Podcast, Ami has the pleasure of interviewing co-host Lynn Ozer, President of MultiFunding and fondly referred to as the "SBA Queen." Tune in as Lynn shares her journey to MultiFunding, which began about three and a half years ago, leading her to a role where she could support the incredible group of lenders that Ami assembled and connect with the entrepreneurs who turn to MultiFunding for guidance.

"They always say when a door closes, a window opens," she said. "Well, this was the best window I ever walked through and found myself in a position to be of assistance to the group of incredible lenders that Ami had put together, and also to be able to meet the world of entrepreneurs that come to MultiFunding for information."

Today's episode dives into the differences between corporate and small business management layers and decision-making, highlighting how, in corporate America, rising in the ranks often means getting further from the actual product being delivered. We'll also discuss the need for better systems to monitor and track how SBA lenders treat clients facing challenges.

Connect with Lynn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lynn-ozer/

Interested in growing your business? Get started with one of our advisors today: https://www.multifunding.com/contact-us

Recorded on 10/8/2024

Amy Petkovsek, Esq., is the Executive Director of the Community Law Center, Maryland's only legal services organization dedicated solely to strengthening neighborhoods and the nonprofit sector. With prior roles at Maryland Legal Aid, including as Deputy Chief Counsel, she boasts an extensive background in child advocacy and appellate law. Committed to empowering local communities and innovative leadership, she serves on several committees and boards, such as the University of Maryland, Carey School of Law, and Movable Feast. Amy is known for her "Flamingo Leadership" concept, which emphasizes the importance of standing out and supporting teamwork within the legal field.

Amy Petkovsek's journey as an attorney began with a desire to help others, leading her to roles that focused on serving those in need, particularly children and underrepresented groups. But in a world where legal assistance can be hard to access, how did she tackle the challenges underserved communities face?

Legal representation not only solves individual matters but also shapes entire communities. Amy highlights how the rest of us might be unaware of the benefits derived from community law. She shares the impact of the Community Law Center's legal advocacy and community engagement, from supporting vulnerable populations to advising neighborhoods on how to navigate school closures and property issues. Amy's dedication shines through as she talks about the responsibility of lawyers toward societal betterment and how her career path led her to impactful, mission-driven work. She discusses the importance of legal advocates focusing on communal well-being rather than individual cases. With an eye on the future, Amy describes the potential for remote courts and other innovative solutions to provide wider access to the justice system.

In this episode of 15 minutes, Chad Franzen hosts Amy Petkovsek, the Executive Director of the Community Law Center, about harnessing the law to transform communities. Amy outlines the impact of effectively listening to and legally empowering neighborhoods, innovative projects like "tools to save our schools," and the importance of lawyers in promoting social justice. She also shares insights into the evolving legal landscape, including remote court sessions and AI's role in broadening legal access.

In this week's edition of the AmiSights Podcast, Ami talks with Erik Nilsen, Senior Vice President of Digital Strategic Partnerships at Owners Bank. Erik has a deep Product Management & Digital Banking background that was acquired from years of banking and fintech leadership. He is responsible for acquiring and managing strategic partnerships that help with the growth of Owners Bank. Owners Bank is a division of Liberty Bank based in Middletown, CT, which is one of the most innovative and established banks in the country.

We've been looking for a bank that offers our clients lines of credit along with great technology, and that's exactly what Owners Bank provides. A good bank isn't just about taking deposits and managing a tech platform; it also plays a key role in providing credit. Owners Bank delivers no BS banking to entrepreneurs. We will launch our partnership at the upcoming EO Xcentric conference in Fort Worth.

Owners Bank is currently open for business in Texas, Georgia, Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island. We will start in these states and move forward together.

Eric talks about how Owners Bank is redefining small business banking, making it simple for business owners. "We have real people that will pick up the phone when you call, and you're not going to go through an extensive call tree all over the country and different time zones. We predicate ourselves on that high-tech, high-touch approach. If you have questions, you're going to get a real person. We try to be really upfront and focus on the experience."

Now there is finally a bank that gets you, with tailored products and services that make things easier for business owners with none of the BS.

The main topics of today's episode include the vision behind empowering entrepreneurs, addressing the gap in small business banking, leveraging technology to provide a seamless banking experience, and the origins of Owners Bank.

Click here to learn more about our partnership with Owners Bank: https://bit.ly/3YquWxU

Connect with Erik Nilsen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erik-nilsen-a980622/ Recorded on 9/8/2024

Deena Buchanan is the Founding Partner of Buchanan Law Firm LLC, a firm specializing in personal injury and employment law. She has over two decades of legal experience and has handled wrongful death, catastrophic injury, and employment cases in more than 20 jurisdictions, including high-stakes litigation for large corporations and plaintiff representation in trucking accident cases. Deena is board-certified in trucking law by the National Board of Trial Advocates and is an active speaker at industry conferences. She is dedicated to mentoring young attorneys and advancing road safety through her legal work.

Trucking accidents are a complex and often misunderstood area of law, impacting countless lives each year. What does it take to advocate for road safety and mentor aspiring lawyers in this demanding field?

According to Deena Buchanan, a trucking attorney with years of high-stakes case experience, a commitment to road safety starts with a deep understanding of trucking law and the dedication to make a real difference on the highways. She highlights how essential it is for attorneys to cultivate empathy and vigilance, particularly when dealing with the aftermath of tragic accidents. Deena shares her hands-on approach to mentorship, from guiding associates through depositions to sharing her unique insights into trucking regulations, allows her to instill these values in young lawyers. By blending technical expertise with compassion, she believes lawyers can create meaningful change for both their clients and the community at large.

In this episode of 15 Minutes, host Chad Franzen sits down with Deena Buchanan, Founding Partner of Buchanan Law Firm LLC, to discuss her journey in trucking law and her mission to enhance road safety. They talk about Deena's unique mentorship approach, how she trains young lawyers through real-world case preparation, and her insights on tackling trucking accident cases with empathy. Deena also gives practical advice on how attorneys can sharpen their skills by thoroughly analyzing evidence.

In this week's edition of the AmiSights Podcast, Heather Hoover and Julie Zarr discuss their roles and experiences at MultiFunding. From navigating the world of finance to providing tailored solutions for small businesses, they explain how working with passionate entrepreneurs makes their jobs both rewarding and exciting. Tune in to learn how these amazing women found their way to MultiFunding and why they love being a part of each client's success story!

"We never have a boring day. When you learn about the blood, sweat, and tears that our clients have put into building their businesses, and hear how they've navigated ups and downs through different economic cycles, their passion for what they do is inspiring. For us, being solutions-oriented and helping them achieve their next goal is incredibly fulfilling."

In today's episode, we explore several key topics, including how having hundreds of credit boxes, rather than just one, provides many more opportunities for MultiFunding's customers. We also discuss how lower interest rates and economic stabilization are driving business startups and acquisitions. Additionally, we highlight how teamwork enhances MultiFunding's efficiency, enabling the team to offer more solutions to clients.

Connect with Heather: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-hoover-63921b100/

Connect with Julie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-zarr-b3762a19/

Interested in growing your business? Get started with one of our advisors today: https://bit.ly/3XErUUP

Recorded on 9/20/24

Thomas (Tom) Feher is the Founder and CEO of Feher Law APC, which specializes in litigating catastrophic injury, wrongful death, and employment cases throughout California. At 40, he has tried over 50 jury trials to verdict, earning him notable recognition, such as CAALA's Rising Star Award in 2018 and OCTLA's Young Gun Award in 2017. Tom, the son of immigrants, decided to become a lawyer, influenced by his father's work ethic and values. He has a background in psychology, philosophy, and political science and has cultivated his trial skills through relentless practice, improvisational theater, and mentorships within the legal community.

What does it take to win in the courtroom — skill, strategy, or something far more human? Could empathy and relentless dedication be the true driving forces behind legal success?

According to Tom Feher, an accomplished trial lawyer, empathy is the foundation of building trust with both clients and juries. He explains that understanding a client's personal story allows for more compelling advocacy rather than relying solely on facts and figures. Tom also highlights that dedication to honing his skills and committing fully to each case is essential for consistent success. Together, empathy and dedication drive courtroom victories and lasting relationships with clients.

In this episode of 15 Minutes, host Chad Franzen speaks with Tom Feher, Founder and CEO of Feher Law APC, to discuss the vital role of empathy and dedication in trial law. Tom explains how these principles enhance legal strategy, the importance of constant learning, and how they've contributed to his success in the courtroom. He also shares insights on building client trust and offers advice for aspiring trial lawyers.

In this week's edition of the AmiSights Podcast, we talk to Albert Fialkovich, President and Managing Partner of the Prospere Companies owner of Transworld Business Advisors of Colorado; Texas: Austin, Dallas-Fort Worth Central & Waco; Nevada: Las Vegas South and Transworld Commercial Real Estate. Tune in as he shares how his father's experience with not selling his business and the challenges he faced with a broker while trying to sell his own inspired him to become highly productive in the industry. "A lot of these deals, when you're good at them, are about finesse, and that's to get a deal closed and know the right partners—like how to talk to a client—because business owners, including myself, are lunatics."

In today's episode, we'll dive into the current trends in the business brokerage industry, sharing predictions on how the field will evolve with technological advancements and shifting market demands. We'll also feature inspiring stories from clients who successfully bought or sold their businesses through Transworld Colorado, showcasing the transformative impact of these transactions. Additionally, we'll explore how success is measured not just by closing deals, but by how these transactions create jobs and inject money into the local economy.

Connect with Albert: https://www.linkedin.com/in/albertfialkovich/

Check out Transworld Business Advisors of Colorado: https://www.tworld.com/locations/colorado/

Recorded on 8/27/24

Lauren Eagan is the Founder and CEO of Eagan Immigration, a law firm with offices in both the US and Costa Rica. Working with attorneys across the US, they specialize in all areas of immigration law. With over a decade of experience, Lauren has expanded her firm from a one-person operation working from a couch to a dedicated team of 80 people. She holds a profound connection with the Spanish-speaking community, fueled by her fluency in Spanish and extensive living experience in Mexico. Lauren is recognized for her innovative approach to social media marketing in the legal field and is deeply committed to creating a supportive and empowering company culture.

Immigration law presents unique challenges, especially when it involves reuniting families and providing security for those who have faced trauma. What does it take to offer meaningful, lasting solutions for clients in such critical circumstances? And how can an immigration law firm innovate to meet the diverse needs of people worldwide?

According to Lauren Eagan, a leading immigration attorney, the answer lies in combining empathy with creative problem-solving. She explains that her firm's focus on humanitarian cases — like family-based petitions, visas for abuse victims, and naturalization — allows them to impact lives by reuniting families and securing futures. Lauren emphasizes that her team's fluency in Spanish and deep understanding of immigration law have enabled them to build trust with clients from over 30 countries. Beyond legal services, her firm also offers innovative support, such as English language courses to help clients prepare for their citizenship exams. She wants to ensure every client feels fully empowered throughout the process.

In this episode of 15 Minutes, host Chad Franzen speaks with Lauren Eagan, Founder and CEO of Eagan Immigration, to discuss how her firm is making an impact in immigration law. They talk about the firm's client-centered approach, the importance of cultural empathy in practicing law, and how innovative strategies help solve complex immigration challenges. Lauren also shares how political shifts impact immigration law and offers advice for aspiring immigration attorneys.