Working the Wow!

​​In this episode, host Judd Shaw interviews Matt Dolman, a personal injury lawyer from the Dolman Law Group in Clearwater, Florida. The pair discuss Florida's recent tort reform and its implications on the insurance industry.

Matt shares his connection to personal injury law, highlighting the importance of empathy, connection, and customer service in his practice. He believes word-of-mouth referrals are the most valuable, and maintaining low case volumes enables attorneys and staff to dedicate more time and attention to each client.

The two stress the need to be approachable at work, wearing casual attire and using self-effacing humor to create a comfortable atmosphere. Matt and Judd also discuss the significance of sharing their mistakes and vulnerabilities to connect with clients.

The episode covers fostering a positive work environment, as happy employees are more likely to become "brand evangelists." Team-building exercises and open dialogue are mentioned as essential in creating a strong team environment.

• [0:43] Recent tort reform in Florida and its potential impact on the insurance industry.
• [01:28] How his father's injury in a car accident inspired Matt’s decision to pursue a personal injury career.
• [05:18] The importance of empathy, connection, and customer service in a successful practice and their influence on client satisfaction.
• [11:41] Approachability, dressing casually, and using self-effacing humor can help put clients and prospects at ease.
• [14:04] Being open about personal mistakes and vulnerabilities helps to connect with clients.
• [17:23] Creating a positive and happy workplace for employees is important, as they’re more likely to treat your clients well, remain with the firm, and become "brand evangelists."
• [19:43] The importance of team-building exercises and encouraging open communication to create a strong team environment.
• [22:26] Sterling the Knight and the mission of instilling empathy in children for a better future.

Name: Judd B. Shaw

Company: Judd Shaw Injury Law

Connect: LinkedIn | Email

Name:  Matt Dolman

Company:  Dolman Law Group

Connect:  LinkedIn | Email

• Sterling the Knight - Jumpstart a Child’s Emotional Intelligence
• David vs. Goliath: Dolman Law Firm Personal Injury Podcast

This podcast is designed for general information purposes only. Nothing on this podcast should be taken as legal advice for an individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and viewing does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship. No aspect of this advertisement has been approved by the Supreme Court. Any results set forth herein are based upon the facts of that particular case and do not represent a promise or guarantee. Those with legal questions should seek the advice of an attorney. 

Running a law firm is vastly different from being employed by one. But what exactly does it take to build your own law firm from the ground up? How can aspiring founders gain the skills needed to succeed?

After 20 years of laboring away at large, successful, law firms, Ben Gideon knew the natural next step for his career was to build a law firm of his own. Just one small problem... Law school doesn’t teach you how to start a law firm. That education is a rocky river that Ben had to learn how to navigate on his own. 

Luckily among the many lessons Ben shares with us is finding someone to grow with you. One When Ben met his partner, Taylor Asen, he knew that their combination of skills and knowledge could build an extraordinary business. 

As the team pushed forward, they had to get down in the trenches and figure out how everything works. In doing so, Ben realized just how important the small things were. While developing their operations manual, Ben ensured value-focused operations in every detail — right down to how someone answers the phone. When you pay attention to the little things, your customers and clients will take notice.

Thanks to professionals like Ben who forged ahead on their own, lawyers starting their firms don’t have to. As Ben’s final piece of advice, he leaves us with“A rising tide lifts all boats, and when we share tips and tricks with fellow lawyers, we’re all better off for it.”

Listen to this episode of Working The Wow Podcast with Judd Shaw featuring Ben Gideon, Attorney and Partner at Gideon Asen. Ben talks about the value of smaller law firms, his strategies for building a firm from the ground up, and his podcast that blends trial law with personal growth. Additionally, Ben discusses the influential people in his life and how his team champions their clients. 

• [0:35] Judd Shaw welcomes his guest, Ben Gideon
• [1:01] Ben shares the details of his podcast, Elawvate
• [3:09] Ben talks about the accomplishments of his wife, Sara, and what it was like being the first husband in politics
• [5:04] Why did Ben leave a large law firm to start his own?
• [10:36] Ben explains why the small details matter
• [14:45] How does Gideon Asen hold up their “champion” attitude?
• [19:09] Ben discusses how he met Taylor Asen and started the firm
• [22:26] Why it’s important for lawyers to share tips with each other and give back to the community
• [26:35] How Ben was influenced by his parents
• [30:34] Developing a code of conduct within Gideon Asen
• [35:07] Ben talks about what it’s like running a law firm
• [37:54] What Ben loves about Maine — and the challenges since Covid

Name: Judd B. Shaw

What he does: Judd founded Judd Shaw Injury Law (JSIL) and serves as the firm’s Brand Chief. He founded the firm on the premise that clients come first. Over the years, the success he attained for his clients helped JSIL grow significantly. Judd’s clients are not just another number to him or his law firm.

Company: Judd Shaw Injury Law

Words of wisdom: "At Judd Shaw Injury Law, it’s all about high-quality representation and excellence in client service. Our clients are counting on us to win and the stakes are high. Our endless pursuit for awesomeness through our core values, the ability to WOW our clients, is in our DNA."

Connect: LinkedIn | Email

Name: Ben Gideon

Short Bio: Ben is an Attorney and Partner at Gideon Asen, a personal injury and medical malpractice firm in Portland and Bangor, Maine. Ben began his law career in private practice at Latham & Watkins in New York City before returning to Maine to join Berman & Simmons, PA, Maine’s largest plaintiff’s law firm. He spent 17 years at Berman & Simmons before founding Gideon Asen. Ben has been named in Best Lawyers in America every year since 2013 and was named “Lawyer of the Year” twice for the state of Maine, among many other accomplishments. 

Company: Gideon Asen

Connect: LinkedIn | Email

• Elawvate
• 1% for the Planet
• Starting a Law Firm: A Complete Guide (2022)

This podcast is designed for general information purposes only. Nothing on this podcast should be taken as legal advice for an individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and viewing does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship. No aspect of this advertisement has been approved by the Supreme Court. Any results set forth herein are based upon the facts of that particular case and do not represent a promise or guarantee. Those with legal questions should seek the advice of an attorney. 

In this new episode, discover the unexpected connection between minor league baseball and the hospitality industry. Join Judd Shaw as he speaks with Joe Ricciutti, President and General Manager of the Jersey Shore BlueClaws, about the importance of focusing on small moments to create unforgettable fan experiences.

Dive into the intricate process of mapping the customer journey, from the parking lot to the concession stand, and learn why attention to detail is key. Joe and his team go the extra mile, even ensuring the glass at the ticket counter is spotless. So, why put so much emphasis on these seemingly minor interactions?

When you invest care and attention into each customer touchpoint, people take notice, develop a desire to return, and remember how you made them feel—particularly during those small moments.

Tune in to this episode of Working The Wow with Judd Shaw featuring Joe Ricciutti, as they discuss creating emotional connections with fans, guiding your organization through hardships, and the importance of using small touchpoints to shape the customer experience.

• [0:30] Introduction to guest Joe Ricciutti
• [01:07] The multigenerational appeal of Jersey Shore BlueClaws games
• [03:18] Joe's hospitality background and Minor League Baseball success
• [05:24] Crafting emotional connections, 'Wow' moments, and exceptional experiences
• [12:05] Breaking down the fan experience into small touchpoints
• [18:30] The role of core values in hiring, leadership, and training
• [24:04] The significance of recovery in customer service
• [29:48] Building a devoted, customer-focused team
• [31:25] Leading by example: tips for guiding staff through challenges and creating lasting first impressions

Name: Judd B. Shaw

What he does: Judd founded Judd Shaw Injury Law (JSIL) and serves as the firm’s Brand Chief. He founded the firm on the premise that clients come first. Over the years, the success he attained for his clients helped JSIL grow significantly. Judd’s clients are not just another number to him or his law firm.

Company: Judd Shaw Injury Law

Words of wisdom: "At Judd Shaw Injury Law, it’s all about high-quality representation and excellence in client service. Our clients are counting on us to win and the stakes are high. Our endless pursuit for awesomeness through our core values, the ability to WOW our clients, is in our DNA."

Connect: LinkedIn | Email

Name: Joe Ricciutti

Short Bio: Joe Ricciutti is the President and General Manager of the Jersey Shore BlueClaws. He has a history of success leading highly visible organizations in the professional sports, academic, and performing arts industries. He has a passion for bringing excellent experiences to stakeholders, guests, and staff.

Company: Jersey Shore BlueClaws

Connect: LinkedIn

Jersey Shore BlueClaws on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube

This podcast is designed for general information purposes only. Nothing on this podcast should be taken as legal advice for an individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and viewing does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship. No aspect of this advertisement has been approved by the Supreme Court. Any results set forth herein are based upon the facts of that particular case and do not represent a promise or guarantee. Those with legal questions should seek the advice of an attorney. 

Creativity is a trait that is often associated strictly with subjects like art or music, something you’re born with. However, creativity is a skill that all aspects of business and innovation utilize and can be taught to every part of your team.

Creativity can be taught, but like a muscle it’s a skill that has to be exercised to grow. When your employees think creatively, you can expect your company to be ahead of the competition, for problems to have working solutions, and for employees to be bought into your brand. When your team’s creativity is stifled, innovation and morale suffer.

Some of the biggest lessons that today’s guest has learned while developing some of the strongest marketing campaigns and some of the most memorable visitor experiences at the ‘happiest place on Earth’ is the creativity of your team.

Listen to this episode of Working The Wow with Judd Shaw featuring Lee Kitchen, a.k.a. The “Magical Dude” five star innovation, catalyst, culture change agent, design thinker, trainer explains the process of training your team to think creatively, utilizing design thinking to lead you to innovation, and more!

• [00:47] Judd Shaw welcomes his guest, Lee Kitchen “The Magical Dude.’
• [01:30] Lee elaborates on what makes a Creative and Innovation Catalyst 
• [03:19] Lee’s favorite problem solving story at the Walt Disney Parks
• [04:36] How do you train a team to think more creatively?
• [10:10] Common bottlenecks to creativity and innovation that everyone should be aware of
• [14:14] The process of how to measure creativity and innovation to track your success 
• [23:59] Exercises you can do to help your team approach a problem with more creativity
• [30:14] How to contact Lee and learn more about design thinking

Name: Judd B. Shaw

What he does: Judd founded Judd Shaw Injury Law (JSIL) and serves as the firm’s Brand Chief. He founded the firm on the premise that clients come first. Over the years, the success he attained for his clients helped JSIL grow significantly. Judd’s clients are not just another number to him or his law firm.

Company: Judd Shaw Injury Law

Words of wisdom: "At Judd Shaw Injury Law, it’s all about high-quality representation and excellence in client service. Our clients are counting on us to win and the stakes are high. Our endless pursuit for awesomeness through our core values, the ability to WOW our clients, is in our DNA."

Connect: LinkedIn

Name: Lee Kitchen

Short Bio: Lee Kitchen is a 5-star Innovation Catalyst, Workshop Leader, Culture-Change Agent, Design Thinking Trainer and Seasoned Meeting Facilitator. During his 32 years at The Walt Disney Company, he helped create some of their most impactful marketing campaigns, memorable guest experiences, and real-time operational efficiency changes. Now he serves companies hungry for innovation, internal creativity and fresh thinking.

Company: MagicalDudeConsulting.com

Connect: LinkedIn

• Lessons learned from Disney: Why creativity is essential to your team's success
• See the secret hotel suite hidden inside Disney World's Cinderella Castle

This podcast is designed for general information purposes only. Nothing on this podcast should be taken as legal advice for an individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and viewing does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship. No aspect of this advertisement has been approved by the Supreme Court. Any results set forth herein are based upon the facts of that particular case and do not represent a promise or guarantee. Those with legal questions should seek the advice of an attorney. 

We often see stress as a negative and do everything in our power to get rid of it. We vilify the people who cause us stress, and this puts leaders in a bad spot. Why? Because you cannot lead without using stress as one of your tools. 

When your employees become stressed and start feeling loss, distrust, or discomfort, what can you do to curb their fears and help them navigate stress effectively? Resilience expert Dr. G says one of the best things you can do is have empathy, stand to the side, and let the stress reflex happen. 

Listen to this episode of The Judd Shaw Way Podcast with Judd Shaw featuring Deborah Gilboa, aka “Dr. G,” a board-certified family physician and resilience expert. Dr. G explains the three components of stress management, how to build resilience, and why it’s essential for leaders to have empathy when initiating change in the workplace. 

• [0:36] Judd Shaw welcomes his guest, Deborah Gilboa (aka “Dr. G”)
• [2:12] Dr. G explains how she became a physician — and why she began studying stress
• [4:31] What is patient resilience?
• [6:38] Dr. G shares the steps everyone should take when confronted with stress
• [9:26] Why leaders encounter change resistance from employees — and how to work through it
• [16:14] The skills that can help you navigate change with intention and purpose
• [20:07] The three components of stress management: recognition, interrogation, and remembering that you have choices
• [26:00] What mistakes do most leaders make when initiating change?

Name: Judd B. Shaw

What he does: Judd founded Judd Shaw Injury Law (JSIL) and serves as the firm’s Brand Chief. He founded the firm on the premise that clients come first. Over the years, the success he attained for his clients helped JSIL grow significantly. Judd’s clients are not just another number to him or his law firm.

Company: Judd Shaw Injury Law

Words of wisdom: "At Judd Shaw Injury Law, it’s all about high-quality representation and excellence in client service. Our clients are counting on us to win and the stakes are high. Our endless pursuit for awesomeness through our core values, the ability to WOW our clients, is in our DNA."

Connect: LinkedIn | Email

Name: Deborah Gilboa, MD (aka “Dr. G”)

Short Bio: Deborah, also known as “Dr. G,” is a board-certified family physician and resilience expert who works with families, educators, executives, and businesses to identify the mindset and strategies to turn stress into an advantage. She is a speaker and leading media personality seen regularly on TODAY, Good Morning America, and The Doctors. Dr. G is also featured frequently in the Washington Post, The New York Times, Huffington Post, and other outlets where she teaches others how to be resilient and “do stress better.”  

Company: AskDoctorG.com

Connect: LinkedIn

• “Doing Too Much is Good For You”
• From Stressed to Resilient: The Guide To Handle More and Feel It Less by Deborah Gilboa, MD

This podcast is designed for general information purposes only. Nothing on this podcast should be taken as legal advice for an individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and viewing does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship. No aspect of this advertisement has been approved by the Supreme Court. Any results set forth herein are based upon the facts of that particular case and do not represent a promise or guarantee. Those with legal questions should seek the advice of an attorney. 

Every lawyer should continue learning, improving, and honing their skills. What’s on the calendar to help you level up this year? 

Get ready for one of the most anticipated events of 2022: Trial Lawyers University’s Live Vegas 2022 conference. 

Dan Ambrose is here to share all of the details, from dates, to speakers, to connection opportunities, with plenty of chances to learn, have fun, and express gratitude to your fellow lawyers. 

The TLU event is going to feature six lecture tracks and 24 different breakout rooms with over 50 top-ranked trial lawyers in the nation, including Joseph Fried, Rex Parris, and Brian Panish. This conference allows you to choose your own learning track and soak up everything you can from some of the leading experts in the field.

Listen to this episode of The Judd Shaw Way Podcast with Judd Shaw featuring Dan Ambrose, Co-founder of Trojan Horse Method. Dan shares everything you need to know about the Trial Lawyers University conference, the exciting events that are taking place at the conference, and why attending events like this is valuable for your law career.

• [0:36] Judd Shaw introduces his guest, Dan Ambrose
• [0:50] Dan talks about the big Trial Lawyers University event coming up in October
• [3:15] How Trial Lawyers University fosters community, joy, and gratitude
• [6:04] The three legs to a conference: learning, Having fun, and networking
• [7:49] Dan shares the details of the Trial Lawyers University conference
• [11:30] The work that Dan put into this upcoming conference

Name: Dan Ambrose

Short Bio: Dan is the Co-founder of Trojan Horse Method. He started out as a criminal defense lawyer in Detroit, Michigan, attending programs such as the National Criminal Defense College, Western Trial Advocacy Institute, and Gerry Spence’s Trial Lawyer’s College. Through 20 years of practice, Dan developed a unique method to help trial lawyers master their skills. With the Trojan Horse workshops, Dan helps lawyers hone both their trial skills and technical skills in a small group setting. 

Company: Trojan Horse Method — Trial Lawyers University

Connect: LinkedIn

• TLU Live Vegas 2022
• TLU On Demand

This podcast is designed for general information purposes only. Nothing on this podcast should be taken as legal advice for an individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and viewing does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship. No aspect of this advertisement has been approved by the Supreme Court. Any results set forth herein are based upon the facts of that particular case and do not represent a promise or guarantee. Those with legal questions should seek the advice of an attorney. 

Allen Tittle loves serving his community — both inside and outside of the courtroom. He grew up in Ohio, went to law school in Ohio, and now serves the people of Ohio, both as an attorney and as a passionate volunteer. 

Allen says “there’s no better feeling” than being able to positively impact the lives of people you grew up with. But why is community so important for Allen, and why should it be one of your core principles as a law firm?

Let’s start with the community inside your firm — your employees. When you invest in the people on your team, you’re building a strong culture and helping your firm (and your people) grow. 

What about your greater community? Of course, giving back to your community helps build your firm’s image and reputation — but that shouldn’t be the main reason for your service. Partnering with local organizations can help you build empathy and connect with those around you. 

One of the charities that Allen and his firm work with is called HansonHouse, which helps care for people with traumatic brain injuries…an area that hits close to home for a personal injury law firm. Through this work, Allen and his team are able to uplift people in their neighborhood. After all, it takes a village to create a strong community.

Listen to this episode of The Judd Shaw Way Podcast with Judd Shaw featuring Allen Tittle, Founding Partner of Tittle & Perlmuter. Allen talks about how his firm is rooted in community, why giving back is so important, and his tips for creating a culture of growth and constant improvement. 

• [0:37] Judd Shaw introduces his guest, Allen Tittle
• [1:43] Allen talks about why he loves serving in Ohio
• [4:22] How Allen gives back to his community — and how he started his law firm
• [7:24] Allen explains their process for developing a culture of success
• [12:05] Why it’s important to invest in your employees
• [12:57] Allen discusses his passion for medical malpractice cases
• [15:03] Allen and Judd talk about the difference between empathy and sympathy and the importance of mindset shifts
• [18:42] What’s next for Tittle & Perlmuter?

Name: Allen Tittle

Short Bio: Allen is the Founding Partner of Tittle & Perlmuter, a Cleveland-based law firm that focuses on personal injury, medical malpractice, nursing home neglect, and wage litigation. His passion for personal injury law stems from a deeply rooted belief in justice, and his work has led to many honors and recognitions. Allen has been named to Super Lawyers’ Rising Stars list for six consecutive years and The National Trial Lawyers’ 40 under 40 list, among many other accomplishments.   

Company: Tittle & Perlmuter

Connect: LinkedIn

• BetterBookClub
• Brené Brown on Empathy
• Crucial Conversations
• No Ego
• Worth Doing Wrong

This podcast is designed for general information purposes only. Nothing on this podcast should be taken as legal advice for an individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and viewing does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship. No aspect of this advertisement has been approved by the Supreme Court. Any results set forth herein are based upon the facts of that particular case and do not represent a promise or guarantee. Those with legal questions should seek the advice of an attorney. 

Jennifer Gore has always been on a mission to improve in everything she does. Whether it’s parenting, mentoring, or running her law firm, Jennifer strives to be the best that she can be. 

Early in her career, Jennifer was working as a paralegal while attending night school, eventually becoming the student body president. And her success didn’t stop there. She went on to found her own law firm, earning titles such as “Legal Elite in Personal Injury Law” and “Top 40 Under 40 Civil Plaintiff Lawyer.” But how did Jennifer thrive all throughout her career?

The truth is, you don’t need to be student body president or found your own firm to feel accomplished. Whatever your big, hairy, audacious goals are, Jennifer has a few tips to achieve them.

As someone with a futuristic perspective, Jennifer knows just how powerful vision boards are. She creates digital vision boards with her biggest goals and uses them as her computer background. Why does she do this? Jennifer says that your subconscious mind is looking at your computer background every single day. And when you’re looking at your vision board every single day, you’re training your mind on what to expect in life. 

By creating vision boards, Jennifer is able to map out her most revolutionary goals and train her mind to work towards them. And Jennifer isn’t the only one who’s seen success. After teaching others how to create vision boards, Jennifer has witnessed how vision boards truly work in others’ lives as well — no matter how big the goal.

Listen to this episode of The Judd Shaw Way Podcast with Judd Shaw featuring Jennifer Gore, founding attorney and Owner of Atlanta Personal Injury Law Group – Gore. Jennifer discusses the early days of her career, how her partners and coworkers help ground her, and the benefits of vision boards and law firm visits. 

• [0:36] Judd Shaw introduces his guest, Jennifer Gore
• [1:01] How Jennifer avoids “mom guilt” and creates a great environment for her kids
• [6:45] Jennifer and Judd talk about what it’s like running a law firm and being futuristic
• [9:43] Jennifer describes how her firm has changed since the pandemic
• [12:24] How Jennifer’s accident helps her empathize with clients
• [13:18] The do’s and don’ts of vision boards
• [16:28] Why Judd visits so many law firms across the country — and why intentionality is key

Name: Jennifer Gore - Cuthbert

Short Bio: Jennifer Gore is the founding attorney and Owner of Atlanta Personal Injury Law Group – Gore. Based in Roswell, Georgia, the firm represents victims of vehicle collisions, drunk driving collisions, slip-and-fall incidents, and wrongful death cases. Jennifer has received several prestigious awards and recognitions, including Avvo Top Attorney and The American Institute of Personal Injury Attorneys’ “Rising Star in Personal Injury Law.” In addition to building a successful law practice, Jennifer mentors younger attorneys on topics such as personal injury law and business management.   

Company: Atlanta Personal Injury Law Group – Gore

Connect: LinkedIn

• Who Moved My Cheese?: An A-Mazing Way to Deal with Change in Your Work and in Your Life by Spencer Johnson 
•  “The Reason Vision Boards Work and How to Make One”

This podcast is designed for general information purposes only. Nothing on this podcast should be taken as legal advice for an individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and viewing does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship. No aspect of this advertisement has been approved by the Supreme Court. Any results set forth herein are based upon the facts of that particular case and do not represent a promise or guarantee. Those with legal questions should seek the advice of an attorney. 

Steve Moss had two passions throughout his career: one was building brands, and the other was helping build people’s careers. After brand building in his corporate career, Steve decided to start a mentorship organization to give others the tools they need to excel in their professions. 

Thus, Executive Springboard was created. But why did Steve choose mentorship over other coaching techniques, and how can you benefit from mentorship? 

After lasting 19 months in his corporate job, Steve began researching and found that 50% of executive external hires fail in the first 18 months. When this happens, it’s not only stressful for the executive, but it also costs the company a ton of money. 

This is where mentorship can help. Instead of coming from a particular field of study or HR (like many coaches), mentors have likely sat in somebody’s chair and gone through similar difficulties. Mentors can be vulnerable and talk about their failures and what they learned, which in turn helps mentees open up, face their fears, and avoid the same mistakes. 

Especially after transitioning to a new role, mentorship is crucial to help someone grow and thrive beyond the 90-day onboarding period. But in addition to helping individuals navigate their careers, mentorship also aids the company as a whole. It boosts retention, helps people get promoted, and creates happier, stronger teams. 

Listen to this episode of The Judd Shaw Way Podcast with Judd Shaw featuring Steve Moss, the Founder and President of Executive Springboard. Steve talks about the differences between mentoring and coaching, why he started Executive Springboard, and the ways in which mentorship can transform a person’s career. 

• [0:36] Judd Shaw introduces his guest, Steve Moss
• [1:14] Steve talks about the difference between mentoring his children and mentoring his grandchild
• [3:21] What inspired Steve to start Executive Springboard?
• [6:48] The differences between a mentor and a coach
• [10:53] When is the right time to provide mentorship?
• [16:56] Steve explains how the mentoring process works at Executive Springboard — and what he looks for in a mentor
• [19:27] Why servant leadership is so important
• [22:40] How Executive Springboard matches mentors and mentees
• [26:02] Steve talks about why mentoring is a marathon, not a sprint
• [32:05] How mentorship can help serve a company’s mission and purpose

Name: Steve Moss

Short Bio: Steve is an Executive Mentor, President, and Founder of Executive Springboard, a network of current and former C-suite executives who mentor leaders to help them excel in new roles. Before Executive Springboard, Steve was the interim CEO for Minnepura Technologies, a Marketing Consultant and President at Moss Re-skilling, and the CMO at Imitation. Steve received his BA from Georgetown University and his MBA from The Wharton School. 

Company: Executive Springboard

Connect: LinkedIn | Email

• “Choosing a mentor: Four questions to ask yourself”
• The First 90 Days: Proven Strategies for Getting Up to Speed Faster and Smarter by Michael D. Watkins
• Lee Cockerell on The Judd Shaw Way Podcast

This podcast is designed for general information purposes only. Nothing on this podcast should be taken as legal advice for an individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and viewing does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship. No aspect of this advertisement has been approved by the Supreme Court. Any results set forth herein are based upon the facts of that particular case and do not represent a promise or guarantee. Those with legal questions should seek the advice of an attorney. 

It’s easy for younger, inexperienced lawyers to give in to their fear of trial and stay in their zone of safety. But the truth is, if you want to build a reputation, you have to muster up the courage to take risks and prove that you’ll fight for your client. 

Following in the footsteps of his grandfather, Daniel Kramer had some big shoes to fill when he became a trial lawyer. During his first trial, Daniel was trying to act like he was an experienced lawyer so that the jurors would take him seriously.  But after his cover was blown, Daniel realized that it’s more important to lean into your inexperience and seek support when needed.

Daniel shares the reminder that it’s only your first trial once. So, if you make a mistake, just own up to it and say, “Sorry folks, it’s my first time doing this.” The jury will understand and be that much more supportive — because everyone has to start somewhere.

Fast forward from Daniel’s first trial, and now he has numerous cases (and wins) under his belt. With over a decade of experience, Daniel knows how to overcome the fears of your first trial and become the reputable lawyer you’ve always envisioned. So, what’s Daniel’s advice?

Get comfortable in your own skin and make the courtroom your office. Through focus groups, you can receive feedback to make you a better trial lawyer. Additionally, through mentorship and co-counseling cases, you can enrich your skills and eliminate fears of the courtroom. 

Listen to this episode of The Judd Shaw Way Podcast with Judd Shaw featuring Daniel Kramer of Kramer Trial Lawyers. Daniel shares the stories of his grandfather that inspired him to be courageous, what it was like in the early days of his career, and how he went on to become a renowned trial lawyer. 

• [0:36] Judd Shaw introduces his guest, Daniel Kramer
• [1:06] Daniel shares his grandfather’s story and why Daniel admired him so much
• [5:09] What was Daniel’s first trial like, and what made him move away from the defense side?
• [8:45] Daniel describes the early days of his plaintiff work and the case that hit home
• [11:28] How Daniel continued educating himself on the art of the trial
• [14:27] Daniel talks about the great things the American Board of Trial Advocates and the Los Angeles Trial Lawyers’ Charities are doing for the community
• [18:46] How has fatherhood impacted Daniel’s work?
• [20:41] Daniel’s advice for new lawyers on overcoming the fear of the courtroom

Name: Daniel Kramer

Short Bio: Daniel is a trial lawyer who specializes in representing families and individuals involved in catastrophic personal injury and wrongful death matters, as well as employment discrimination and retaliation lawsuits. Among many accomplishments, Daniel has been named a “Top Attorney” in personal injury and employment law by Pasadena Magazine and has been selected as a Super Lawyers “Rising Star.” He also currently serves on the Board of Directors of the Los Angeles Trial Lawyers’ Charities, where he served as President in 2021. 

Company: Kramer Trial Lawyers

Connect: [email protected]

• American Board of Trial Advocates
• Los Angeles Trial Lawyers’ Charities

This podcast is designed for general information purposes only. Nothing on this podcast should be taken as legal advice for an individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and viewing does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship. No aspect of this advertisement has been approved by the Supreme Court. Any results set forth herein are based upon the facts of that particular case and do not represent a promise or guarantee. Those with legal questions should seek the advice of an attorney.