A Different Practice

Your micro-episode for tested strategies that actually work in solo practice. Get proven solutions delivered straight to your inbox at ⁠adifferentpractice.com/subscribe⁠.

In this episode of How to Run a Law Firm in 2025, Mathew Kerbis and I kicked off part one of our deep dive into a topic that doesn’t get nearly enough attention—your hardware setup.

We shared how we each built tech-enabled practices, from basic setups to more advanced configurations, and why the hardware you choose really does matter for both productivity and client perception. We broke down the pros and cons of laptops vs. desktops and shared some clever, budget-friendly ways to upgrade your video call presence—whether you’re meeting with clients or appearing in virtual court.

One of my favorite hacks? Using your iPhone as a pro-level webcam. We also talked about affordable ergonomic upgrades, and why the positioning of your camera often makes a bigger impact than the price tag attached to it.

If you’re looking to level up your workspace, we covered tips on using iPads as secondary displays and how to create professional-looking virtual backgrounds that don’t scream “I’m working from my kitchen table.”

This episode is perfect for solos and small firm owners who want to upgrade their tech without overspending—and show up looking (and feeling) like the professional you are.

Your micro-episode for tested strategies that actually work in solo practice. Get proven solutions delivered straight to your inbox at ⁠adifferentpractice.com/subscribe⁠.

In the sixth episode of How to Run a Law Firm in 2025, Mathew Kerbis and I dove into one of the hottest (and sometimes most overwhelming) topics for solos—how to evaluate and choose the right technology for your practice.

We talked about how easy it is to fall into “shiny object syndrome,” chasing the latest tools without really knowing if they solve a real problem. That’s why we both emphasize starting with your specific needs first, then finding the tech to meet them—not the other way around.

We shared where we tend to discover new tools—through podcasts, ads, client recommendations, and industry newsletters—but no matter where we hear about something, we always try it out before committing. Demos and hands-on testing are non-negotiable.

Since both of us work with flat-fee pricing models, we also discussed how to think about tech costs when you’re not billing by the hour. It really comes down to evaluating the cost-benefit ratio—does the tool save you time, improve client experience, or increase your capacity in a way that justifies the expense?

While legal-specific tech often lags behind broader business tools, we both prefer using “best of breed” specialized solutions instead of clunky all-in-one platforms that try (and usually fail) to do everything.

And here’s a big one—don’t just set and forget your tech stack. We regularly review our subscriptions to cut out anything we’re no longer using and keep our expenses in check. Tracking those costs helps us make smarter decisions when considering new tech investments.

The goal isn’t to have the flashiest setup—it’s to have the right tools that actually support the business you’re building.

In the sixth episode of How to Run a Law Firm in 2025, Lauren and Mathew discuss how they evaluate and discover new technology for their practices. They emphasize the importance of identifying specific needs before adopting new tech tools and warn against “shiny object syndrome.”

They also discuss the importance of regularly reviewing their tech stack to eliminate unnecessary subscriptions and ensure their tools remain cost-effective. They suggest tracking software and subscription costs to help make informed decisions about new technology investments.

----

Want proven tips to help you build a thriving solo practice from someone who's tested them already? Subscribe to the Solo Success Lab and learn what really works in solo practice: https://adifferentpractice.com/subscribe

What if the biggest impact on your law practice had nothing to do with business strategies or marketing? In this enlightening episode, leadership coach Andrea Johnson reveals how understanding and honoring your core values can transform your legal career. We dive deep into the difference between professional expectations and authenticity, how to navigate workplace dynamics while staying true to yourself, and why leading yourself first is crucial for success. 

Whether you're feeling stuck in a practice that doesn't quite fit or simply curious about building a more fulfilling career, this conversation offers practical insights on breaking free from conventional molds while maintaining professionalism. Discover how to identify your core values and use them as a compass for making decisions that align with your authentic self.

Listen now!

SHOW NOTES:⁠www.adifferentpractice.com/the-power-of-authenticity-transforming-your-legal-career-from-the-inside-out-with-andrea-johnson⁠ 

SUBSCRIBE TO THE SOLO SUCCESS LAB:https://adifferentpractice.com/subscribe

Your micro-episode for tested strategies that actually work in solo practice. Get proven solutions delivered straight to your inbox at ⁠adifferentpractice.com/subscribe⁠.

In the fifth episode of How to Run a Law Firm in 2025, Mathew Kerbis and I tackled a challenge every lawyer faces—how to pitch your services without sounding like, well…a lawyer.

We talked about the struggle of crafting a great elevator pitch, especially when you have more than one practice area. Mathew even shared how he created a marketing jingle to stand out (yes, really!), while I talked about how I focus my messaging around helping clients “protect their peace.”

One of the biggest lessons we’ve both learned? Keep it simple. Ditch the legal jargon and stop leading with your credentials. Clients don’t care about where you went to law school—they care about how you can solve their problems.

We also shared some of our favorite tools for creating professional marketing materials. Canva is a go-to for both of us when it comes to making everything from flyers to business cards to one-pagers.

And even if you’re not a fan of networking events, we agreed they’re one of the best places to practice and refine your pitch. You never know when a conversation will turn into a referral—even in rooms where your practice area doesn’t seem like an obvious fit.

If you’re struggling to define your message, we highly recommend checking out the StoryBrand framework. It’s a game changer for clarifying the problems you solve and making sure your marketing is focused on client benefits, not just a list of your qualifications.

At the end of the day, the most powerful pitch is one that’s authentic to you—and flexible enough to adapt depending on who’s listening.

In the fifth episode of How to Run a Law Firm in 2025, Lauren and Mathew discuss strategies for pitching legal services and creating marketing materials. They explore the challenges of crafting effective elevator pitches, particularly when handling multiple practice areas.

Throughout the discussion, they highlight the importance of authenticity in marketing and the need to adapt pitches for different contexts and audiences.

----

Want proven tips to help you build a thriving solo practice from someone who's tested them already? Subscribe to the Solo Success Lab and learn what really works in solo practice: https://adifferentpractice.com/subscribe

Your micro-episode for tested strategies that actually work in solo practice. Get proven solutions delivered straight to your inbox at ⁠adifferentpractice.com/subscribe⁠.