In this episode, Stephanie talks with Michael Bungay Stanier, the author of The Coaching Habit, about his new book How to Work with (Almost) Anyone. They discuss how successful law firm leaders know how to effectively coach teammates and how to foster what Stanier calls the ‘Best Possible Relationships’ (BPRs). This discussion emphasizes the importance of curiosity over advice-giving, and the need for psychological safety in both client and employee relationships. The discussion is rich with practical insights and actionable strategies for improving workplace dynamics and fostering better communication, including how to have a Keystone Conversation and build better self-awareness in leadership. 

Links from the episode:  

Check out Michael's books 

MBS Works 

Women & AI Summit 

Chapters

00:00 - Women + AI Summit 

04:08 - Michael Bungay Stanier Insights 

11:34 - Understanding BPR (Best Possible Relationship) 

15:30 - Keystone Conversations Explained 

19:53 - Qualities of a Great Team Member 

23:20 - Getting Started with Effective Practices 

26:31 - Importance of the "Read Me" Document 

28:50 - Finding Michael Bungay Stanier Online 

29:10 - Exploring More of Stanier's Work 

29:45 - Outro 

In this conversation, Barron Henley shares his expertise on document automation and formatting in Microsoft Word, focusing on hidden features, effective techniques, and the importance of styles. He discusses common pitfalls lawyers face and provides practical solutions to streamline document creation, including the use of templates, styles, numbering, and cross-referencing. The conversation emphasizes the need for proper setup to avoid formatting issues and enhance productivity, particularly in legal contexts. 

Links from the episode:  

Check out Affinity Consulting 

Discover how voice training can make you a more effective and persuasive attorney.  

Rena Cook, voice and speech trainer, shares invaluable tips on using breath, tone, and inflection to command attention in the courtroom and beyond.  

Learn how to speak with confidence, connect with your audience, and elevate your presence in any legal setting.  

From proper breathing techniques to authentic pitch variety, this episode reveals the power of vocal mastery in law.  

Don't miss out on this game-changing advice that could take your legal career to new heights! 

Links from the episode:  

Find your authentic voice with Rena Cook at My Vocal Authority  

Discover how AI is revolutionizing law firms and why traditional legal practices may become obsolete.  

Join Alistair Vigier, CEO of Caseway, as he shares his remarkable journey from military service to disrupting the legal tech industry with groundbreaking AI solutions.  

Learn how artificial intelligence is transforming legal research, document creation, and client services - all while making law more accessible and efficient.  

Get an insider's look at the challenges and opportunities facing legal tech startups, including battles with established players and the innovative solutions that are reshaping how lawyers work.  

Alistair reveals how Caseway's AI technology is making premium legal tools affordable for firms of all sizes, while maintaining transparency and ethical standards.  

From real-time contract analysis to automated court document preparation, see how AI is not just changing the game - it's creating a new playing field for legal services.  

Whether you're a legal professional looking to stay competitive or simply curious about the future of law, this conversation offers valuable insights into the intersection of artificial intelligence and legal practice. 

Links from the episode:  

Check out iManage-Making Knowledge Work 

Caseway: Your AI_driven legal research assistant  

Stressed out at work? In this episode, Lawyerist Lab mindset coach Supriya Venkatesan will help you understand how your body holds onto stress—and simple, science-backed ways to shake it off.  

From quick anxiety-relief techniques you can use in the courtroom to posture tweaks and tapping methods, these tools are helping lawyers nationwide stay calm and confident. Learn how movement and somatic regulation can transform the way you handle pressure, whether it’s tough opposing counsel or pre-trial nerves.  

Links from the episode:   

Join Lawyerist Lab Today! 

Travis Hoechlin, CEO of RizeUp Media, shares game-changing tips from 15+ years of legal marketing experience to help your practice thrive. 

Learn how simple changes—like better phone protocols—can boost your conversion rates, while smart moves like optimizing Local Service Ads (LSAs) and choosing the right marketing plan set you up for success.  

Links from the episode:  

Connect with Travis on LinkedIn  

RizeUp Media 

Lawyer burnout is real, and it's time to talk about it!  

In this episode of the Lawyerist Podcast, Zack chats with professional development coach Natasha Evans to uncover the 5 hidden signs you’re nearing burnout. They discuss the prevalence of high-functioning depression among lawyers, the impact of holiday stress, and why even the most successful attorneys aren’t immune. 

Natasha shares practical strategies to break free from the burnout cycle, reignite your passion for law, and improve your mental wellness. Discover simple self-care tips, mindset shifts, and the surprising link between your well-being and your firm’s success. 

Links from the episode:  

Check out TimeSolv  

Discover how core values can transform your law firm from a business into a thriving, purpose-driven practice. Chad Fox, business coach at Lawyerist, shares expert insights on why core values matter and how they impact everything from hiring decisions to daily operations. Learn practical strategies for developing meaningful core values that go beyond basic principles like "integrity" and "honesty." Find out how to use these values to make better decisions, build a stronger team culture, and create a framework for sustainable growth. 

Links from the episode:  

Check out Posh Virtual Receptionists 

 Register for the Lawyerist KPI Webinar 

It’s become a holiday tradition to re-air this important and enlightening episode of The Lawyerist Podcast.  

Listen in as Sam Glover and Annie Grace dive into sobriety and mindful drinking. Annie shares her insights and strategies learned in her book, “The Alcohol Experiment.”  

Discover the potential harms of the legal profession's drinking culture and learn how to navigate social events without alcohol. This is a must-listen for any lawyer rethinking their relationship with alcohol. 

Stephanie welcomes leadership expert Dr. John Blakey to discuss transforming legal leadership through his "Up, In, Out" framework. Drawing from his book "Force for Good," Dr. Blakey challenges lawyers to shift from a profit-driven to a purpose-driven approach, offering actionable strategies for aligning personal values with professional goals, maintaining motivation, and creating meaningful impact in their legal practices. 

Links from the episode:  

 Force for Good: How to Thrive as a Purpose-Driven Leader