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

Subscribe & Review: Never miss an episode. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube. ⭐Like what you hear? A quick review helps more people find the show.⭐

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

Curious about growing your own practice? Contact Atticus to see whether our law firm coaching can help you strengthen attorney success, refine your law firm business strategy, and build a practice that actually supports your life. You can also sign up for our newsletter to get practical insights on how to grow a law firm: from law firm leadership and management to marketing, hiring, operations, culture, and profitability, so you can build a Great Practice and a Great Life.

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

Subscribe & Review Never miss an episode. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube. ⭐Like what you hear? A quick review helps more people find the show.⭐

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

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].

Curious about growing your own practice? Contact Atticus to see whether our law firm coaching can help you strengthen attorney success, refine your law firm business strategy, scaling your law firm, and build a practice that actually supports your life. You can also sign up for our newsletter to get practical insights on how to grow a law firm: from law firm leadership and management to marketing, hiring, operations, culture, and profitability, so you can build a Great Practice and a Great Life.

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

Subscribe & Review Never miss an episode. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube. ⭐Like what you hear? A quick review helps more people find the show.⭐

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/

Curious about growing your own practice? Contact Atticus to see whether our law firm coaching can help you strengthen attorney success, refine your law firm business strategy, and build a practice that actually supports your life. You can also sign up for our newsletter to get practical insights on how to grow a law firm: from law firm leadership and management to marketing, hiring, operations, culture, and profitability, so you can build a Great Practice and a Great Life.

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

Subscribe & Review Never miss an episode. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube. ⭐Like what you hear? A quick review helps more people find the show.⭐

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

Curious about growing your own practice? Contact Atticus to see whether our law firm coaching can help you strengthen attorney success, refine your law firm business strategy, and build a practice that actually supports your life. You can also sign up for our newsletter to get practical insights on how to grow a law firm: from law firm leadership and management to marketing, hiring, operations, culture, and profitability, so you can build a Great Practice and a Great Life.

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

Subscribe & Review Never miss an episode. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube. ⭐Like what you hear? A quick review helps more people find the show.⭐

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

Curious about growing your own practice? Contact Atticus to see whether our law firm coaching can help you strengthen attorney success, refine your law firm business strategy, and build a practice that actually supports your life. You can also sign up for our newsletter to get practical insights on how to grow a law firm: from law firm leadership and management to marketing, hiring, operations, culture, and profitability, so you can build a Great Practice and a Great Life.

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

Subscribe & Review Never miss an episode. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube. ⭐Like what you hear? A quick review helps more people find the show.⭐

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

Curious about growing your own practice? Contact Atticus to see whether our law firm coaching can help you strengthen attorney success, refine your law firm business strategy, provide you a DISC for lawyers and teams, and build a practice that actually supports your life. You can also sign up for our newsletter to get practical insights on how to grow a law firm: from law firm leadership and management to marketing, hiring, operations, culture, and profitability, so you can build a Great Practice and a Great Life.

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

Subscribe & Review Never miss an episode. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube. ⭐Like what you hear? A quick review helps more people find the show.⭐

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

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].

Curious about growing your own practice? Contact Atticus to see whether our law firm coaching can help you strengthen attorney success, refine your law firm business strategy, and build a practice that actually supports your life. You can also sign up for our newsletter to get practical insights on how to grow a law firm: from law firm leadership and management to marketing, hiring, operations, culture, and profitability, so you can build a Great Practice and a Great Life.

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 firms
• Insights from Lori Pulvermacher on creating a New Hire Onboarding Guide
• Emphasis on preparing new hires before their first day and integrating them effectively
• Addressing different learning styles and providing robust training
• Role of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) in guiding new hires to autonomy
• Strategies for fostering a positive team culture and reducing resentment from existing staff
• The evolving nature of KPIs and their impact on firm performance and growth

Subscribe & Review Never miss an episode. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube. ⭐Like what you hear? A quick review helps more people find the show.⭐

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

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

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-firms
• All In: How Great Leaders Build Unstoppable Teams by Mike Michalowicz: mikemichalowicz.com/all-in
• Team 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-practice
• Episode 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)

Curious about growing your own practice? Contact Atticus to see whether our law firm coaching can help you strengthen attorney success, refine your law firm business strategy, onboard team members to your law firm, and build a practice that actually supports your life. You can also sign up for our newsletter to get practical insights on how to grow a law firm: from law firm leadership and management to marketing, hiring, operations, culture, and profitability, so you can build a Great Practice and a Great Life.

What if the key to reducing turnover and increasing productivity in your law firm was strategic onboarding for law firms, not just hiring more talent?

In this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Steve speaks with Lori Pulvermacher about the transformative impact of strategic onboarding for law firms. Often overlooked, a well-structured onboarding process can make the difference between retaining top talent and facing costly turnover. Lori shares seven essential strategies to ensure new hires feel supported and integrated from day one, ultimately strengthening firm culture and profitability.

As law firms scale, maintaining efficiency and preserving culture becomes increasingly difficult. High turnover leads to lost productivity, disrupted workflows, and low morale. This conversation highlights how these strategies provide a competitive edge by streamlining integration, minimizing inefficiencies, and improving overall firm performance. From setting clear expectations to fostering engagement, the right onboarding framework helps new employees quickly become valuable contributors.

We dive into the key components of effective onboarding, including goal setting, defining roles, and implementing a structured 90-day plan. Lori emphasizes that onboarding should begin before the employee's first day, ensuring a smooth transition and immediate alignment with the firm's values. Additionally, she discusses leadership development and strategic delegation, highlighting the role of communication and continuous feedback in building a resilient team.

By investing in strategic onboarding for law firms, attorneys can create a culture of excellence and long-term success. A strong onboarding process not only enhances retention but also optimizes firm operations, leading to sustainable growth and a thriving legal practice.

In this episode, you will hear:

• Importance of strategic onboarding in law firms to reduce turnover and enhance firm culture
• Seven essential strategies for effective onboarding
• The role of a structured 90-day onboarding plan in integrating new hires
• Overcoming challenges of high turnover with a well-defined onboarding process
• Significance of leadership development and strategic delegation for law firm growth
• Benefits of clear communication and setting key performance indicators (KPIs)
• The impact of continuous improvement and training on firm success

Supporting Resources:

• Lori Pulvermacher, Practice Advisor: atticusadvantage.com/team/lori-pulvermacher
• Law Firm Coaching: atticusadvantage.com/coaching
• Level Up Your Billable Practice: atticusadvantage.com/workshops/level-up-your-billable-practice
• Episode 097: Hiring Shortcut for Busy Lawyers with Rose Hutchinson: atticusadvantage.com/podcast/law-firm-hiring-strategies-for-busy-lawyers
• Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM): www.shrm.org/home
• Team Leader Certification Program: atticusadvantage.com/law-firm-team-leader-certification
• Episode 030: Well, What Did You Expect? With Glenn Finch: atticusadvantage.com/podcast/well-what-did-you-expect-with-glenn-finch
• Our Great Life Couples Workshop: atticusadvantage.com/workshops/our-great-life-couples-workshop
• Episode 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

Subscribe & Review Never miss an episode. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube. ⭐Like what you hear? A quick review helps more people find the show.⭐

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

Curious about growing your own practice? Contact Atticus to see whether our law firm coaching can help you strengthen attorney success, refine your law firm business strategy, and build a practice that actually supports your life. You can also sign up for our newsletter to get practical insights on how to grow a law firm: from law firm leadership and management to marketing, hiring, operations, culture, and profitability, so you can build a Great Practice and a Great Life.

In a world where emotions often run wild, Brother Curtis has spent over 40 years uncovering the secret to taming the beasts of fear and anxiety. Having journeyed through his own emotional landscapes, he shares his wisdom on how these powerful feelings shape both personal and professional realms.

On this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, inspired by the comforting lines of Psalm 23, we highlight the power of recognizing that none of us face our fears alone. Brother Curtis joins us to reveal the importance of emotional intelligence, a tool more potent than IQ in breaking through life's barriers. Together, we reflect on aligning life choices with desired outcomes, paving a path toward growth and gratitude.

The haze of anxiety can obscure our creative vision, much like heating a home with the windows wide open. We unravel the differences between anxiety and fear, exploring how anxiety's roots often trace back to our earliest experiences. Brother Curtis and Steve engage in a heartfelt dialogue about how many high achievers, despite their success, often carry unspoken anxieties clouded by shame. By bringing these feelings into the open and practicing gratitude, we can reclaim the energy lost to anxiety. We also explore how vulnerability and shared fears can act as bridges to deeper connections and healing.

Embrace the art of resilience by trusting and revealing your true self. Authentic connections strengthen our emotional resilience, allowing us to navigate life's challenges more easily. Brother Curtis emphasizes the human longing to be known and safe, underscoring the value of supportive relationships that encourage open communication. We leave you with the empowering notion that each person can inspire others, stepping beyond fear to embody positivity and strength.

Join us as we champion gratitude, connection, and personal growth, lighting the way for others who may still wander in the shadows of fear.

In this episode, you will hear:

• The transformative power of recognizing fear and anxiety as universal experiences
• Brother Curtis's insights on emotional intelligence surpassing IQ for personal and professional growth
• Differentiating anxiety from fear and addressing their origins and impacts
• Importance of vulnerability and shared fears in building deeper connections
• Exploring how authentic connections enhance emotional resilience
• Role of gratitude practices in reclaiming energy lost to anxiety
• Emphasis on trust and open-hearted communication as tools for resilience and empowerment

Subscribe & Review Never miss an episode. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube. ⭐Like what you hear? A quick review helps more people find the show.⭐

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

• 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/

• 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/

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

Curious about growing your own practice? Contact Atticus to see whether our law firm coaching can help you strengthen attorney success, refine your law firm business strategy, and build a practice that actually supports your life. We work with attorneys who want to develop a healthier lawyer mindset—one that supports resilience, emotional intelligence, and long-term success in the profession. You can also sign up for our newsletter to get practical insights on how to grow a law firm, from leadership and management to marketing, hiring, operations, culture, and profitability, so you can build a Great Practice and a Great Life.