The Lawyer's Edge

Rob Kates is the Executive Producer at Kates Media, a video production company creating videos for lawyers, law firms, health care education, professional speakers, consultants, trainers, and professional service companies. With over 20 years of video production experience, Kates Media has produced various media forms, including web videos, TV commercials, and indie films. The company's work has appeared in online publications like the Legal Intelligencer and the ABA Journal.

Rob's 30 years of experience in print, film, television, and commercial production allows him to create high-quality and valuable content for businesses and professionals. As a media and video steering and technology committee volunteer at the Legal Marketing Association, he advises lawyers and law firms on using video content to increase visibility and revenue.

Video has become more prominent than ever. From video streaming platforms and internet content to large-screen TVs in living rooms and lobbies, this digital medium is surpassing other marketing channels. While lawyers can be slow to adopt new technology, many are posting videos to their social media pages. How can you leverage video to market your law firm?

With deep expertise in video production for lawyers and law firms, Rob Kates has observed a significant surge in video content among these professionals. Video generates client engagement and drives traffic to your website at higher rates than written content. You can shoot scripted videos or record live speaking engagements and repurpose them as short-form thought leadership content on your social media pages. Analyzing video engagement through likes, comments, and shares allows you to measure and boost ROI.

In today's episode of The Lawyer's Edge Podcast, Elise Holtzman invites Rob Kates, the Executive Producer at Kates Media, to share video marketing advice for lawyers and law firms. Rob explains the benefits of this medium, the most effective video forms for law firms, and how to identify and select a video production company.

Emily Witt is the Managing Director of Whistler Partners, a matchmaking firm focused on counseling leading attorneys in their careers. In her role, she facilitates women's advancements in tech, healthcare advocacy, and life sciences. With over 20 years of industry experience, Emily has served as a legal recruiter at one of the world's most preeminent law firms and now brings her expertise and advice to the agency side of the profession.

Emily began her legal recruiting career as a Senior Recruiting Coordinator at Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz, where she worked alongside some of the most admirable attorneys in the country. At Wachtell, she became the designated career professional, advising associates on role progression.

Emily's legal recruiting approach involves connecting with attorneys and guiding them to follow their instincts when making decisions. As a naturally skilled professional matchmaker, she counsels and encourages women to pursue their dream careers.

With so much volatility in the job market, law firms and in-house legal departments have become even pickier about their hiring standards. Whether you are looking for a role as a private practice lawyer or are interested in going in-house, it's critical that you understand the hiring landscape and prepare yourself to stand out from a crowded marketplace for legal talent. As you evaluate your options, how can you prepare to transition into your dream career?

Seasoned legal recruiter Emily Witt recognizes business priorities and attorneys' professional demands. Emerging lawyers often begin their careers in-house, where they're required to possess agility, leadership skills, and the ability to communicate clearly and succinctly. Conversely, law firms value culture and professional growth, making these environments more attractive to experienced attorneys. When making this shift, Emily says to embellish your skill sets, research the firm, and assess your value proposition. You can also leverage legal recruiters to attain your career goals.

In today's episode of The Lawyer's Edge Podcast, Elise Holtzman interviews Emily Witt, a Managing Director of legal recruiting firm Whistler Partners, who shares advice on how lawyers can best position themselves to succeed in a job search. Emily describes the different skills law firms and in-house legal departments look for in candidates, how to evaluate legal recruiters, and how to consider job opportunities.

Randi Kochman is the Co-managing Shareholder of Cole Schotz P.C., where she serves as chair of the firm's employment law department. She is dedicated to helping employers understand and navigate complicated and evolving employment law to manage employees effectively, avoid costly mistakes, and focus on their core businesses.

With more than 25 years of employment law experience, Randi works closely with her clients in employment-related cases, including wrongful discharge, discrimination, retaliation, harassment, wage and hour compliance, and contract disputes. When disputes arise, she works meticulously to litigate employment and business tort issues in state and federal courts and administrative agencies. Randi lectures and writes regularly on all aspects of employment law and is frequently called upon to conduct independent workplace investigations into allegations of harassment, discrimination, retaliation, and related issues.

Randi is actively involved with the New Jersey Women Lawyers Association (NJWLA), where she's held various leadership positions, including president, president-elect, vice president, and secretary. Working with Cole Schotz since 1995 allowed her to advance in her career from being a promising lawyer to being recognized for high-quality legal work and professionalism. She now mentors, supports, and imparts her years of wisdom to junior attorneys.

The fundamental shifts in employment culture have influenced how junior associates view the legal profession. Law firms must find ways to retain and satisfy junior lawyers' needs while identifying those motivated to attain leadership positions. Creating an atmosphere that fosters continuous career development and enrichment to cultivate and retain talent is key.

As an esteemed managing partner and leader in the legal industry, Randi Kochman maintains that junior lawyers must confirm their commitment to their roles to be considered for other positions. This allows you to build a legal business through relationship-building and business development opportunities like joining organizations for professional growth. Investing in yourself is also critical, so Randi advises allocating your endeavors to focus on personal skill development and self-care.

Join Elise Holtzman in this episode of The Lawyer's Edge Podcast as she hosts Randi Kochman, Co-managing Shareholder at Cole Schotz, who shares her career development journey and tips for junior associates. Randi explains how to address attorneys' altering perspectives on the legal profession, her favorite parts of practicing law, and management and retention strategies for law firm leaders.

Erin Higgins is a Litigation Partner at Conn Kavanaugh, a Boston-based law firm representing individuals, families, and organizations in litigation, tort defense, construction, estate planning, family law, and professional liability. In her role, she oversees the firm's operations and manages the growth of its practice areas and professionals. As a civil trial lawyer with 30 years of experience, Erin represents lawyers, insurance agents and brokers, and other professionals in defending against errors and omissions claims.

Having served a four-year term on the Massachusetts Board of Bar Overseers, she advises and represents lawyers on ethical issues and disciplinary matters. Erin speaks routinely on professional liability and ethics topics and wrote a regular column on ethics for Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly. She also handles business litigation and insurance coverage issues and defends manufacturers against product liability claims. As an experienced appellate advocate, Erin has argued before the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court, the Massachusetts Appeals Court, and the United States Court of Appeals for the First Circuit.

Erin understands the importance of reputation for lawyers and professionals and works on resolutions to protect that element. She is invested in her attorneys' development and success and focuses on creating strategies to attract and retain talent for the firm.

Many law firm leaders are concerned about lawyer attrition and wonder how to create an environment that promotes loyalty and career longevity. Loss of legal talent can impact a firm's bottom line and negatively impact clients and other law firm team members. How can you adapt to a generational shift in lawyers' needs and wants so you can attract and retain the best talent?

While most law firms rely on consistent, diligent attorneys working fixed hours, seasoned litigation partner Erin Higgins says you can provide accommodating hybrid work environments to mitigate attrition. She also maintains the value of building an intellectually stimulating culture that delivers purposeful services. This involves supporting associates' professional development through outside training opportunities, mentoring, and sponsorship programs, encouraging them to pursue their passions. Establishing and managing expectations is also crucial to ensure lawyers can acquire experience through the appropriate channels.

In this episode of The Lawyer's Edge Podcast, Elise Holtzman is joined by Erin Higgins, Litigation Partner at Conn Kavanaugh, to discuss how to retain top associates at your firm. Erin explains the value of DEI efforts, how legal industry trends impact talent attraction and retention, and how to identify and address mental health challenges among attorneys.

Domenic Romano is the Managing Partner of Romano Law PLLC, a modern transactional and litigation law practice focused on business, disputes, employment, media, and sports and entertainment law. He is also the Founding Member of the Business Lawyers Group, the Managing Lawyers Group, and the Entertainment Lawyers Group, all diverse networks of seasoned attorneys. Before founding Romano Law, Domenic was a Corporate Lawyer at Jones Day and Brown Raysman Millstein Felder & Steiner, LLP, where he focused on business transactions for private and public companies.

As a legal commentator, Domenic has been featured in major news outlets, including NBC, CBS, CNN, and Fox Business News. He has also been quoted in The New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, Independent, TIME, and Entertainment Weekly. Domenic has been named to the New York Metro Super Lawyers list consecutively since 2015. In 2022, he was awarded Martindale-Hubbell's AV Preeminent Rating, ranking at the highest level of professional excellence for his legal expertise, communication skills, and ethical standards.

As an experienced corporate lawyer and entertainment attorney, Domenic advises clients on business structuring, divorce, purchases and sales, litigation, employment disputes, licensing, film finance, and complex contract negotiation. By providing legal advice as an entrepreneur, he helps other entrepreneurs scale their businesses and guides creative professionals to advance their careers.

In law school, lawyers are taught to eliminate risk and restrain any entrepreneurial impulses. Consequently, many attorneys struggle to manage their businesses and overlook profitable opportunities. How can you transition from a lawyer to an entrepreneur to power your firm?

As a seasoned attorney and entrepreneur, Domenic Romano helps lawyers relinquish traditional law firm practices and implement processes to scale their firms. Rather than focusing exclusively on billable hours and client acquisitions, Domenic says to build, retain, and scale a team of A-players by identifying their motivations and investing in their professional development. It's also critical to set expectations with clients regarding prompt payments and contractual agreements. When you gain the respect of your team and clients, you can manage your firm effectively.

In today's episode of The Lawyer's Edge Podcast, Elise Holtzman invites Domenic Romano, Managing Partner of Romano Law, to discuss how he began managing his law firm with an entrepreneurial mindset. Domenic shares how to transition from a lawyer to a law firm owner, strategies for managing and scaling a law firm, and expert advice for lawyers turned entrepreneurs.

William (Bill) Barrett is the CEO and Partner of Mandelbaum Barrett PC, which represents clients in all aspects of real estate, including transactions, leasing and land use, and business litigation. He has over 20 years of experience representing diverse businesses, specializing in mergers and acquisitions. Bill also serves as outside general corporate counsel to clients, advising them on issues concerning contracts, employment law compliance, and business succession and related tax planning.

As an authority in the healthcare space, Bill is recognized nationally as a transactional lawyer in dental and medical practice transitions, practice sales and purchases, and the structuring of dental and management services organizations. He is the author of Pain Free Dental Deals and The DSO Decision. Bill has also written many articles addressing licensed professionals and facilities' legal and business needs and regularly speaks on various topics at professional trade shows and dental and medical schools. His expertise makes him well-versed in the rules and regulations governing the healthcare industry.

With a reputation as a deal maker, Bill is known for the personal attention he provides clients and his energetic and creative approach to transactions. This has allowed him to manage the purchase or sale of hundreds of businesses, professional practices, and facilities. Bill's personalized approach to client relationships helps him cultivate a world-class team of experienced attorneys.

Many law firms focus on profitability and productivity and neglect culture and client experiences. But with succession planning and attorney attraction and retention top priorities for many firms, developing a scalable strategy for long-term prosperity is crucial. How can your firm benefit by nurturing client relationships and creating an atmosphere that attracts and retains top talent?

Business transaction and law firm culture strategist Bill Barrett says the key to a prosperous firm is the relationships between the clients and their attorneys. Clients who have an enjoyable experience keep coming back, the law firm grows, and you retain productive and satisfied top attorneys who can advance their careers within your firm. This starts by fostering a culture that attracts, supports, respects, and adequately compensates legal talent. When you have attorneys who develop their skills to cultivate transparent client communications and relationships, your firm will thrive.

Join Elise Holtzman in this episode of The Lawyer's Edge Podcast as she interviews William (Bill) Barrett, Partner and CEO of Mandelbaum Barrett, about attracting and retaining top legal talent. Bill shares how to leverage feedback to boost relationships, fostering opportunities for associate attorneys, and the value of kindness for employee attraction and retention.

Diane DiResta is the Founder of DiResta Communications Inc., which provides keynote speaking, seminars and workshops, and executive speech coaching to elevate executive presence and leadership.

Diane works with leaders who want to show up powerfully and speak with confidence, clarity, and influence, whether one-on-one, on a stage, or on a virtual platform. Through her coaching, Diane teaches the keys to masterful communication and helps clients gain the confidence to influence, lead, and inspire audiences.

Diane is a speech pathologist by training and has spoken on four continents. She's the author of Knockout Presentations, which has been called "the Bible of public speaking." Her LinkedIn learning course, "Speaking Confidently and Effectively," was among the top 20 most popular courses for two years. Diane has been featured on CNN and quoted in publications, including The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, and The Guardian.

Speaking is a critical skill many people should learn but often don't take the time to do it. We either assume speaking will come naturally or that we lack talent. The reality is we just need the mindset and skill set to quell limiting beliefs and own the room.

Communications expert Diane DiResta says public speaking is one of the most powerful and cost-effective marketing strategies. Lawyers have individual brands and attract business through personal relationships, so effective speaking helps set you apart from the pack. But how do you overcome public speaking fears and use the right tools to engage audiences? Diane has an abundance of knowledge and tips that she's sharing to help you gain confidence and clarity in your public speaking skills.

In this episode of The Lawyer's Edge Podcast, Elise Holtzman is joined by Diane DiResta, Founder of DiResta Communications Inc., to share strategies to elevate your public speaking skills and influence your audience. Diane discusses the various forms of public speaking, tips to overcome fears and limitations, and how to navigate unexpected situations during your speech. Diane also talks about the value of storytelling, connection, and a clear message.

Stephanie Grober is the Content and Public Relations Manager for Horowitz Agency, a marketing and public relations firm that works exclusively with corporate and entertainment law, financial and production firms, and select individuals across the US and Canada.

Stephanie has been in the digital marketing and communications space for nearly 10 years. She joined Horowitz Agency in 2021 after serving as the Marketing Communications Manager for a top 50 accounting firm in New York City.

Working with law firm clients ranging from big law to boutique, Stephanie and the Horowitz team design and execute content and communication strategies that generate measurable bottom-line growth. Stephanie also delivers high-quality earned media placements for clients by leveraging deep relationships with the press. She knows that becoming a leading authority in your field requires more than keeping your head down and grinding out the work. To boost your profile, it's crucial to get clear on your content strategy, take on new marketing and PR opportunities, and get your name out there.

Every lawyer wants to get in front of prospective clients and referral partners and generate more revenue for the firm. To do so, you must become a recognized name and ensure you aren't a best-kept secret. So what are the top strategies to showcase your expertise and grow your business?

Stephanie Grober distinguishes content and PR strategy as valuable tools to increase revenue and become a recognized thought leader. From written content and press appearances to awards and nominations, lawyers can build content and PR strategies that cater to their unique skills, time commitments, and audiences. The key is to share content regularly. Content marketing isn't just a one-and-done approach — you build momentum over time by seeking out new opportunities.

In this episode of The Lawyer's Edge Podcast, Elise Holtzman is joined by Stephanie Grober, Content and Public Relations Manager for Horowitz Agency, to talk about the best strategies to develop content and PR initiatives. Stephanie discusses the different aspects of content strategy that generate awareness, tips to develop and repurpose content within a busy schedule, and how to overcome common content creation challenges.

Jennifer Gillman is the President of Gillman Strategic Group, a legal recruiting company focused solely on law firm partner placement. She aims to help dissatisfied law firm partners and solo practitioners find the perfect fit at another firm.

After practicing law for 12 years, Jennifer realized that legal recruiting combined her two passions of law and matchmaking. She worked at a New Jersey legal recruiting firm for 10 years before following her dream and launching Gillman Strategic Group.

Being unhappy in your law career doesn't have to be the norm. That's why Jennifer created an organization that offers support, guidance, and resources to help law firm partners find their ideal firm. With her combined experience in law and legal recruiting, Jennifer takes on all the legwork necessary to make a career shift and achieve personal and professional satisfaction.

Law firm partners often feel guilty for their unhappiness. They are respected, get paid well, and seem to have "made it" in the industry, so why are they dissatisfied? There are many legitimate reasons why rainmakers might feel unhappy in their firms, from lack of growth to ill-suited cultures. As a partner, you shouldn't feel guilty for your unhappiness — but you don't need to tolerate it, either.

Jennifer Gillman says rainmakers can be successful and happy if they're in the right firm. But how do you evaluate if your firm is the proper fit? Jennifer breaks it down into three buckets: work-life balance, client fit, and firm fit. If you're not finding harmony between your personal and professional life, it may be time to change firms. Additionally, if your clients outgrow the firm or the company can't support your needs, it's worth taking a leap to find a new firm.

In this episode of The Lawyer's Edge Podcast, Elise Holtzman is joined by Jennifer Gillman, President of Gillman Strategic Group, to talk about how rainmakers can find happiness in their work. Jennifer shares how her business helps law firm partners search for a new company, common reasons why rainmakers change firms, and tips to find happiness in the law.

Taylor Tobey is a Digital Strategist at 9Sail, a lead generation and marketing agency that serves the legal industry and beyond.

Taylor received her MBA in marketing and now consults with law firms and individual attorneys on topics such as SEO, PPC, content, and digital PR. Additionally, she helps firms grow by creating and implementing long-term SEO strategies that improve online visibility and boost lead generation from websites.

With a finger on the pulse of digital marketing, Taylor helps lawyers and law firms navigate the new systems of ChatGPT, Google Analytics 4, and other technologies on the rise.

The world of digital marketing is constantly evolving. How do you stay on top of the latest trends and technologies without getting bogged down by the changes?

Taylor Tobey says you don't have to be an expert on every emerging technology, but you should do your research and keep up with what's new in digital marketing. Every technology has advantages and disadvantages, and it's crucial to figure out what's best for your firm, continue to grow, and keep your audience top of mind.

In this episode of The Lawyer's Edge Podcast, Elise Holtzman sits down with Taylor Tobey, Digital Strategist at 9Sail, to talk about emerging technologies in digital marketing. Taylor discusses how she got her start in digital marketing, the pros and cons of ChatGPT and other technologies, and how lawyers can prepare for new updates in the Google Analytics realm.