Referral-based marketing for law firms is the key to long-term growth, client trust, and sustainable success

In this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Steve Riley is joined by Craig Goldenfarb, CEO and founder of GOLDLAW, a South Florida-based personal injury law firm, to break down the proven strategies behind referral-based marketing for law firms. With a team of 85 employees, including 12 attorneys, Craig shares how nearly a quarter of his cases still come from intentional, relationship-driven referrals—even after scaling his firm and investing in broad advertising.

Craig walks us through how he built a consistent, replicable referral system rooted in personal connection, structure, and strategic generosity. He reveals how he books four relationship-building lunches each week, how he uses personalized gifts to stay top-of-mind, and how keeping detailed notes in his case management system supports long-term connection and trust.

From leveraging attorney networks and professional alliances to incorporating creative content and physical gifts into his outreach, Craig gives actionable advice any lawyer can implement—no matter the size of their firm. He also discusses how the “Give-Give-Get” mindset fosters authentic relationships that fuel both personal satisfaction and business growth.

This episode is a masterclass in building a successful law firm without relying solely on paid ads. If you’re ready to grow your practice through human connection and smart systems, Craig’s insights will show you how to make referral-based marketing a cornerstone of your law firm’s growth.

In this episode, you will hear:

• Craig Goldenfarb’s journey from a small practice to leading a firm of 85 people, including 12 lawyers
• The significance of referral-based marketing in law practices and the concept of a “net referral score”
• Strategies for building genuine connections, including the “Give-Give-Get” approach
• The importance of intentional networking and maintaining professional relationships
• Utilizing unique gifting strategies and reciprocity to enhance client and colleague relationships
• Leveraging personal anecdotes and experiences to illustrate effective marketing tactics
• Emotional intelligence and humility for continuous personal and professional 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 [email protected].

Supporting Resources:

• GOLDLAW: goldlaw.com/

• Craig M. Goldenfarb, Esq.: goldlaw.com/our-team/craig-m-goldenfarb

• Choose the 2s: (561) 222-2222

• GOLDLAW Newsletters: goldlaw.com/newsletters

• 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

• Episode 112: The Best of Great Practice. Great Life.: Top Moments of 2024: atticusadvantage.com/podcast/the-best-of-great-practice-great-life-top-moments-of-2024

• 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

• Episode 122: The Money-Making Power of Personal Relationships with Colleen Goldenfarb: atticusadvantage.com/podcast/money-making-personal-relationships

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

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.

Discover how creating your own personal board of advisors can help you make better decisions and grow your practice with confidence.

On this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Steve Riley shares a transformative approach that reshaped both his career and mindset: The Growth Council Strategy.

Early in his career, Steve realized that not everyone in his life could help him navigate the complex problems he faced, either professionally or personally. He needed something more—a space where he could problem-solve quickly, gain perspective, and clear the mental clutter. So he created his own growth council, a mental framework inspired by Napoleon Hill’s Think and Grow Rich, designed to tap into the wisdom of trusted mentors, role models, and even historical figures.

Through personal stories and practical insights, Steve reveals how building a virtual board of advisors helped him silence his inner critics and focus on the voices of those who truly understood his challenges. This internal council became a tool for creativity, accountability, and strategic thinking—one he now teaches others to build for themselves.

You’ll also hear about a chance encounter Steve had with a group of female attorneys who wore bracelets engraved with “WWSRD”—What Would Steve Riley Do? That moment sparked the realization that you can draw inspiration from someone, even if they’re not physically present, and inspired him to formalize the concept of the growth council.

If you’re looking for a way to overcome self-sabotage, make better decisions, and stay grounded as you grow, this episode is your blueprint.

In this episode, you will hear:

• The Growth Council Strategy for cultivating a thriving law practice

• Overcoming mental chaos and negative self-talk to enhance creativity and adopt a growth-oriented mindset

• Managing an inner planning committee and the influence of internal voices like the doubter and the perfectionist

• Building a virtual board of advisors inspired by Napoleon Hill’s “Think and Grow Rich”

• Utilizing reflective thinking and metacognition for creative problem-solving

• Steps and exercises to create and leverage a personal growth council

• Taking action to achieve significant personal and professional 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.

Supporting Resources:

• Steve Riley: atticusadvantage.com/team/steve-riley

• Download: Growth Council Strategy atticusadvantage.com/worksheets/growth-council-strategy 

• Law Firm Coaching: atticusadvantage.com/coaching

• Contact us free Practice Growth Diagnostic: atticusadvantage.com/practice-growth-diagnostic

• Mark Powers: atticusadvantage.com/team/mark-powers

• Patti Paz: atticusadvantage.com/team/patti-paz

• Think and Grow Rich: The Landmark Bestseller Now Revised and Updated for the 21st Century by Napoleon Hill: www.amazon.com/Think-Grow-Rich-Landmark-Bestseller/dp/1585424331

If there’s a topic you would like us to cover on an upcoming episode, please email us at [email protected].

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.

On this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Steve sits down with Chris Barron, the inspiring lead singer of the Spin Doctors, for a deep dive into his incredible journey—one marked by relentless resilience, reinvention, and raw determination.

Chris shares his story of overcoming a tough childhood, dyslexia, vocal paralysis, and the heartbreaking loss of his brother—all while forging a legendary career in music. His secret? A relentless work ethic, a sharp mind, and a unique approach to handling setbacks. He embraces what he calls “guided moping,” allowing himself time to process challenges before shifting into creative problem-solving mode.

From the Spin Doctors’ early days recording on a Tascam four-track cassette to crafting hits like “Little Miss Can’t Be Wrong,” Chris has always turned adversity into art—something most business owners can relate to. He shares his unique analogy of running the band like a pirate ship, emphasizing the power of collaboration and teamwork. He also offers insights into how musicians, much like lawyers, find success when they align their personal aspirations with the broader goals of their team.

But Chris isn’t just about music, his insatiable curiosity fuels everything he does. Twice facing vocal paralysis, he adapted with resilience and ingenuity, proving that persistence beats the odds. Whether it’s photography, chess, or studying ancient Greek, he’s constantly evolving, refusing to be defined by his struggles. No matter your path—music, law, or any dream worth chasing—Chris’s story is a testament to how hard work, heart, and resilience can shape a lasting legacy.

Spin Doctors kick off their tour on April 8, 2025, and their new album drops on April 12, 2025!

In this episode, you will hear:

• Chris Barron’s creative journey and identity as a poet and performer
• The analogy of running a band like a pirate ship, emphasizing collaboration and teamwork
• The Spin Doctors’ early days and evolution, highlighting key partnerships and songwriting
• Overcoming personal and professional challenges, including vocal paralysis and loss
• Chris’s passion for diverse interests, such as photography, chess, and lifelong learning
• The importance of reputation, honesty, and balance in creative and legal careers
• Resilience and adaptability as key components of a successful artistic career
•  

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 [email protected].

Supporting Resources:

• Chris Barron: thechrisbarron.com

• Spin Doctors: www.spindoctors.com

• Spin Doctors Tour Dates: www.spindoctors.com/tour

• New Album: Face Full of Cake: www.hellomerch.com/products/face-full-of-cake-cd

• New Single: Rock ‘N’ Roll Heaven: spindoctors.lnk.to/RocknRollHeaven

• Spin Doctors Merch: www.hellomerch.com/collections/spin-doctors

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

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.

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 [email protected].

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.

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 [email protected].

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.

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 [email protected].

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.

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 field
• Colleen Goldenfarb's insights from her journey with her husband, Craig, to balance marriage and a thriving legal practice
• Importance of regular rituals and scheduled intimacy to maintain passion in relationships
• How tools like “Eight Dates” and personality assessments can enhance personal connections
• Instituting weekly meetings for consolidating issues and improving home efficiency
• Strategies for crafting fulfilling vacations by aligning personal and relationship dynamics
• The 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 [email protected].

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.

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 advocate
• Overcoming challenges in civil rights litigation, including qualified immunity
• Innovative marketing scorecard system for law firm growth and team engagement
• Gamification of marketing efforts to increase personal injury cases and revenue
• Setting realistic client expectations in civil rights cases
• Collaborative firm culture transformation through shared marketing responsibilities
• Practical 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 [email protected].

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.

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 [email protected].

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.

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 life
• Challenges and prevalence of addiction within the legal profession, emphasizing societal norms and pressures
• Key moments of self-realization and acceptance leading to Scott's decision to seek inpatient treatment
• The critical role of community support and empathy in recovery, highlighted by a rival attorney's generous gesture
• Scott's transition to sobriety, supported by AA meetings and new hobbies like photography
• The importance of self-awareness, developing healthier coping mechanisms, and confronting underlying issues
• Scott'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-spradley
• Law Offices of Scott W. Spradley: www.flaglerbeachlaw.com
• Scott Spradley Seascape & Landscape Photography: www.spradleyphoto.com
• Level Up Your Billable Practice Virtual Workshop: atticusadvantage.com/workshops/level-up-your-billable-practice
• Find an AA Meeting Near You: sober.com/find-a-meeting
• Free and Confidential Support for Attorneys, Judges, and Law Students: www.fla-lap.org
• Impaired Attorneys and the Disciplinary System by Richard B. Marx: www.floridabar.org/the-florida-bar-journal/impaired-attorneys-and-the-disciplinary-system
• Addiction & Substance Abuse in Lawyers: Statistics to Know by Priscilla Henson, MD: americanaddictioncenters.org/workforce-addiction/white-collar/lawyers
• The 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.aspx
• Workshop: 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 [email protected].

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.