Lead Counsel

Thomas Tona

What happens when law, business & life collide? What if you could hang out with law firm owners and accomplished business leaders earning seven, eight, and nine figures a year, and gain insights that propel legal cases, and businesses forward exponentially? The Lead Counsel podcast, hosted by Thomas Tona, is a weekly show that delves into the world of law, the business of law, life, and where the three intersect. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with industry insiders and experts, thought leaders, and individuals that are making significant contributions and differences in their chosen fields. The show covers a wide range of topics related to law, the business of law, life and how they are intertwined. From the latest trends and research to personal stories and practical takeaways, the Lead Counsel podcast offers listeners deep dives on every topic discussed. The goal of this podcast is to provide zero cost to consumer information about law and the business of law, and related tools, to the general public. The show will include different segments, such as "Case of the Week," where the host gives his perspective on recent happenings in the industry, "Tools of the Trade," where the host and guests share valuable resources and tips for listeners, "Behind the Scenes" where the host and guests will share insights and stories not generally known in the industry, and "The Law Leader," where the host and guests will explore what it takes to build a 7,8 or 9-figure law firm and have a great life at the same time. Whether you're a lawyer, or non-lawyer, the Lead Counsel podcast is a must-listen for anyone looking to stay informed and inspired. The show is sure to be a valuable resource for anyone looking to learn more about your personal injury, no-fault collection, or other claims or lawsuits, as well as law firm business owners looking to perform at the highest levels of leadership.

  1. 2 days ago

    Essential Advice for Starting and Building a Business

    In this special compilation episode of the Lead Counsel Podcast, host Tom Tona brings together key insights and foundational advice from top legal minds on what it truly takes to start, build, and sustain a successful business. Starting a business or opening a new law firm comes with severe challenges, from wondering if the phone will ever ring to learning how to avoid devastating financial mistakes. In this mashup episode, Tom Tona and his guests peel back the curtain on why mastering basic business fundamentals must happen long before you think about scaling. They unpack the dangers of stepping outside your lane of expertise, debunk the widespread myth of passive law firm ownership, and explain why joining the right peer network or mastermind can save you years of costly trial and error. Key Highlights Master Fundamentals Before You Scale: Focus on building your core foundation first. For any business under the ten year mark, making your first hire or putting basic processes in place is building, not scaling. Spend your first five years becoming an absolute expert in your domain and creating documented, repeatable systems. Stay in Your Lane of Expertise: Tom Tona candidly shares his biggest business mistake: venturing outside his primary area of legal expertise into an unfamiliar business venture. He discusses taking a massive financial hit that wiped out a multi seven figure net worth and the mindset required to get back on track. The Reality of Law Firm Ownership: A look at the persistent myth of absentee ownership marketed to overworked attorneys. Successful high revenue law firm owners put in continuous hard work, active leadership, and short term sacrifices for long term gain. Think Like a Marketer and a Lawyer: Guest Brian Glass discusses the critical balance between legal skill and business strategy. To increase revenue and profitability, law firm owners must understand how to leverage marketing, screen for higher value cases, and refine internal processes. The Value of Mentorship and Masterminds: This episode also discusses why new business owners should never operate on an island. Finding a collaborative tribe, finding experienced mentors, and investing in pay to play masterminds provide shortcut growth and keep you from repeating preventable mistakes.  Your Host: Tom Tona Founder & Managing Attorney, Tonalaw Website: https://www.tonalaw.com LinkedIn: Tom Tona X: @NYPITrialGuy This podcast is sponsored by TonaLaw. TonaLaw is not just another law firm. They're defining what it means to fight for their clients. We get a lot of attorney referrals from across the country. We pay fee participation in all jurisdictions where it's permitted. We focus on integrity, innovation and relentless advocacy. TonalLaw is proving that the business of the law can scale without losing its heart. Do you want to see how a modern firm is built for impact and happy client referrals? Check out tonalaw.com mention again the Lead Counsel Podcast and I'm happy to get on the phone with you.

  2. 20 Aug

    Unlocking LinkedIn: Authentic Personal Branding and B2B Referrals with Jimmy Lai

    In this episode of the Lead Counsel Podcast, host Tom Tona sits down with Jimmy Lai, co-founder of Lai and Turner Law Firm and author of Quietly Influential. They dive deep into how introverted professionals can leverage LinkedIn to scale their businesses, build authentic networks, drive high-value attorney-to-attorney referrals, and recruit top-tier talent. Episode Highlights Maximizing B2B Referrals: Tom reveals how TonaLaw signed 22 new personal injury cases in 90 days strictly through LinkedIn networking. The Introvert Advantage: Jimmy breaks down how an introverted attorney used LinkedIn as a public diary to generate 80,000 dollars in referral revenue, recruit top team members globally, and land major podcast appearances. Overcoming Perfectionism: Why perfectionism is a socially acceptable form of procrastination that stops creators from posting, and why lived experience beats polished marketing every time. Strategic Commenting: How leaving thoughtful comments on key industry posts acts as a major coattail strategy to build an audience without the pressure of constant content creation. Authenticity vs. The Hater Effect: Embracing vulnerability, sharing failures alongside wins, and using your unique traits to attract ideal clients while repelling the wrong fit. Hidden Opportunities in DMs: Why checking your LinkedIn direct messages weekly can lead to massive revenue, strategic production partnerships, and key hires. Featured Guest: Jimmy Lai Co-Founder & Immigration Attorney, Lai & Turner Law Firm PLLC Website: https://www.laiturnerlaw.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimmylai-jdmba/ Book: Quietly Influential Your Host: Tom Tona Founder & Managing Attorney, Tonalaw Website: https://www.tonalaw.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonalaw/ X: @NYPITrialGuy This podcast is sponsored by TonaLaw. TonaLaw is not just another law firm. They're defining what it means to fight for their clients. We get a lot of attorney referrals from across the country. We pay fee participation in all jurisdictions where it's permitted. We focus on integrity, innovation and relentless advocacy. TonalLaw is proving that the business of the law can scale without losing its heart. Do you want to see how a modern firm is built for impact and happy client referrals? Check out tonalaw.com mention again the Lead Counsel Podcast and I'm happy to get on the phone with you.

  3. 13 Aug

    How Exceptional Customer Service Drives Law Firm Growth

    In this special compilation episode of the Lead Counsel Podcast, host Tom Tona brings together insights on what it truly takes to scale a business without losing its heart: exceptional customer service. Featuring key discussions with legal industry leaders and business strategists, this episode dives deep into turning standard transactional workflows into world class client journeys. Discover why standard intake and minimum wage front-desk operations might be quietly costing your firm hundreds of thousands of dollars. Learn how setting up structured onboarding, nurturing post case relationships, and embracing an abundance mindset can convert everyday clients into vocal brand advocates who drive high value organic referrals. Whether running a law firm, a boutique commercial real estate brokerage, or any service based business, these actionable insights demonstrate how prioritizing delivery over initial acquisition builds long term enterprise value. Key Episode Highlights Fixing the Hidden Holes in Intake: The math behind intake conversion. Learn how clear decision boxes and dedicated, well-compensated intake professionals stop high-value cases from falling through the cracks. Moving Beyond Transactional Onboarding: Discover how personalized onboarding and intentional post-case follow-ups turn clients into super fans who generate continuous referral traffic. The Abundance Mindset in Practice: Tom Tona shares personal stories on placing client interests first, including how refusing to take a case out of professional courtesy and client care builds deeper industry authority. Unconventional Value Creation: Why no deal is too small, showing how being a connected resource and providing full-service care transforms small transactions into major long-term accounts. Scaling Impact Without Losing Quality: How building systemized, high-level operations allows business leaders to serve thousands of clients brilliantly without compromising personal lifestyle or firm standards. Your Host: Tom Tona Founder & Managing Attorney, Tonalaw Website: https://www.tonalaw.com LinkedIn: Tom Tona X: @NYPITrialGuy This podcast is sponsored by TonaLaw. TonaLaw is not just another law firm. They're defining what it means to fight for their clients. We get a lot of attorney referrals from across the country. We pay fee participation in all jurisdictions where it's permitted. We focus on integrity, innovation and relentless advocacy. TonalLaw is proving that the business of the law can scale without losing its heart. Do you want to see how a modern firm is built for impact and happy client referrals? Check out tonalaw.com mention again the Lead Counsel Podcast and I'm happy to get on the phone with you.

  4. 6 Aug

    Master Continuous Learning and Build High-Value Connections to Scale Your Firm

    In this special mashup episode of the Lead Counsel Podcast, host Tom Tona brings together powerful insights on two foundational pillars of long-term business success: continuous learning and building genuine connections. Featuring actionable advice from high-performing guests Jennifer Talley, Jennifer Gore, and Ryan McKeen this episode breaks down what it truly takes to transition from a practitioner to an industry leader. Tom and the guests dismantle the myth of overnight success and highlight why becoming an expert first is non-negotiable for scaling a business. They share how staying curious, seeking out top mentors, and investing in lifelong education—whether through real estate certifications or high-stakes trial attorney playbooks—will dramatically accelerate your growth. The discussion also dives deep into strategic networking. Learn why transactional relationships fail, how approaching every conversation with genuine curiosity creates raving fans, and how entering non-traditional business groups can unlock massive referral pipelines. Key Episode Highlights: The Expert-First Approach: Why new lawyers and entrepreneurs must dedicate years to mastering their craft before launching or scaling a firm. Lifelong Learning Playbooks: Insights on seeking out top-tier performers, learning proven strategies, and staying constantly curious. Authentic Networking Hacks: How to abandon transactional agendas, practice active listening, and build deep, trusting business relationships. Smart Mentorship: How to approach mentors, put your ego aside, and respect their time by executing on their advice. Cross-Industry Growth: Why getting outside your specific niche and joining diverse business communities can drive exponential referral traffic. Your Host: Tom Tona Founder & Managing Attorney, Tonalaw Website: https://www.tonalaw.com LinkedIn: Tom Tona X: @NYPITrialGuy This podcast is sponsored by TonaLaw. TonaLaw is not just another law firm. They're defining what it means to fight for their clients. We get a lot of attorney referrals from across the country. We pay fee participation in all jurisdictions where it's permitted. We focus on integrity, innovation and relentless advocacy. TonalLaw is proving that the business of the law can scale without losing its heart. Do you want to see how a modern firm is built for impact and happy client referrals? Check out tonalaw.com mention again the Lead Counsel Podcast and I'm happy to get on the phone with you.

  5. 30 July

    How Client-Centered Service Drives Growth and Attorney Referrals

    How do top-tier law firms scale their business while maintaining high-touch, empathetic customer service? In this special mashup episode of the Legal Counsel Podcast, host Tom Tona sat down with industry experts Keith Roman and Adam Rosson to break down strategies that turn clients into lifelong advocates and drive steady attorney referrals. Discover how leveraging operational tech stacks like LeadDocket, CasePeer, and Hona can automate your legal processes without sacrificing personal touch. Learn why direct communication—including simple strategies like picking up the phone and setting proactive client expectations—remains the single biggest differentiator in personal injury and criminal defense law. Plus, Tom Tona shares actionable insights on how conducting file audits and personally managing critical client reassignments builds unprecedented trust. Whether you are looking to refine your firm's North Star, implement Ritz-Carlton level service, or scale your business through nationwide attorney fee participation, this episode provides the blueprint for building a client-first, modern law firm.   Key Highlights The Power of Client-Centered Service: Why competing on client service experience sets top-tier law firms apart from the crowd. Leveraging Automation for Consistency: How integrating systems like LeadDocket, CasePeer, and Hona standardizes case updates and reduces client anxiety. The "Pick Up the Phone" Philosophy: Why direct, regular phone calls outperform email and text updates when building long-term trust. Handling File Reassignments Right: Tom Tona shares how personally contacting top-tier case clients transformed file transitions into positive client experiences. Ritz-Carlton Service in Criminal Defense and PI: Adam Rosson discusses setting a high standard of advocacy and serving clients with relentless dedication. Defining Your Firm's North Star: Evaluating your firm's standards by asking: "Is this the law firm I would hire for my own family?" Your Host: Tom Tona Founder & Managing Attorney, Tonalaw Website: https://www.tonalaw.com LinkedIn: Tom Tona X: @NYPITrialGuy This podcast is sponsored by TonaLaw. TonaLaw is not just another law firm. They're defining what it means to fight for their clients. We get a lot of attorney referrals from across the country. We pay fee participation in all jurisdictions where it's permitted. We focus on integrity, innovation and relentless advocacy. TonalLaw is proving that the business of the law can scale without losing its heart. Do you want to see how a modern firm is built for impact and happy client referrals? Check out tonalaw.com mention again the Lead Counsel Podcast and I'm happy to get on the phone with you.

  6. 23 July

    Mastering the Growth Mindset: Scaling Law Firms, Overcoming Fear, and Building Authentic Relationships

    In this high-impact, curated mashup episode of the Lead Counsel Podcast, host Tom Tona brings together key insights from top legal minds and high-performing entrepreneurs to explore the personal traits, mental toughness, and strategic shifts required to achieve sustained business growth. Scaling a successful business or law firm requires far more than tactical strategy—it demands continuous personal development, effective stress management, and a commitment to genuine human connection. In this episode, Tom and his expert guests break down the hidden reality of "overnight success," the power of early investigation and active listening, and how to push through fear to delegate and scale effectively. Key Episode Highlights The Reality of the Exponential Curve: Uncover why true success often feels like a long, invisible slog before the sudden "hockey stick" growth curve hits. Learn why staying the course and embracing iteration is essential for long-term dominance in your field. Mental Health and Physical Discipline for High Performers: Discover how top attorneys and entrepreneurs manage extreme stress. From non-negotiable daily morning workouts and endurance running to meditation, learn how physical discipline protects cognitive health and drives creative problem-solving. Building Human-Centric Connections: Why treating clients and contacts as true partners—rather than transactional numbers—is a modern superpower. Learn why getting out from behind your desk, actively listening with your eyes and soul, and serving on industry committees can transform your practice. Vulnerability, Work-Life Alignment, and Family: Explore the vital role of spouse support, emotional vulnerability, and open communication at home. Real success isn't measured by office luxury or net worth, but by the lasting relationships and legacy you leave behind. Conquering Fear at Every Stage of Scaling: Break through the delegation bottleneck. Learn how to confront the fear of losing control, make rational decisions, trust your team, and navigate the unique risks present at each stage of business expansion. Your Host: Tom Tona Founder & Managing Attorney, Tonalaw Website: https://www.tonalaw.com LinkedIn: Tom Tona X: @NYPITrialGuy This podcast is sponsored by TonaLaw. TonaLaw is not just another law firm. They're defining what it means to fight for their clients. We get a lot of attorney referrals from across the country. We pay fee participation in all jurisdictions where it's permitted. We focus on integrity, innovation and relentless advocacy. TonalLaw is proving that the business of the law can scale without losing its heart. Do you want to see how a modern firm is built for impact and happy client referrals? Check out tonalaw.com mention again the Lead Counsel Podcast and I'm happy to get on the phone with you.

  7. 16 July

    161: The Foundation of Growth: Mastering Your Craft, Active Listening, and the Keys to a Winning Practice

    How do you transition from a struggling, overworked attorney to a thriving CEO who doesn't work weekends or nights? It all starts with self-improvement, mastering your craft, and learning the power of active listening. In this special mashup episode of the Lead Counsel Podcast, host Tom Tona reflects on key lessons of self-improvement, sharing valuable insights on what it truly takes to win in both the business of law and the game of life. Tom sits down with Bill Umansky to unpack the discipline of active listening. They explore how setting aside your ego and putting in the "reps" can dramatically transform your relationships and your business.  Tom breaks down the exact blueprint for winning in litigation, business, and life. You will learn why masterfully executing your craft is your best marketing strategy, and why true success means building a business that serves your life, rather than letting your practice consume it. If you are ready to overcome imposter syndrome, master risk management, and scale your law firm without losing your heart, this episode is a must-listen. Episode Highlights The Reps of Active Listening: Bill Umansky explains how putting down your ego and actively practicing silence allows you to build deeper, more authentic connections with clients and peers. Mastery as a Marketing Strategy: Why younger attorneys should stop focusing on complex business conference theories and instead master their legal craft to naturally drive high-value client referrals. The Pillars of Winning: A deep dive into the critical components of success: vision, over-preparation, adaptability, and staying calm under pressure. Winning the Game of Life: How Tom built a highly profitable modern law firm that allows him to take month-long vacations to Europe and never miss a family dinner or school event. Decision-Making Dynamics: The difference between intuitive impulsives and deliberative contemplatives, and why avoiding analysis paralysis is key to rapid business growth. Your Host: Tom Tona Founder & Managing Attorney, Tonalaw Website: https://www.tonalaw.com LinkedIn: Tom Tona X: @NYPITrialGuy This podcast is sponsored by TonaLaw. TonaLaw is not just another law firm. They're defining what it means to fight for their clients. We get a lot of attorney referrals from across the country. We pay fee participation in all jurisdictions where it's permitted. We focus on integrity, innovation and relentless advocacy. TonalLaw is proving that the business of the law can scale without losing its heart. Do you want to see how a modern firm is built for impact and happy client referrals? Check out tonalaw.com mention again the Lead Counsel Podcast and I'm happy to get on the phone with you.

  8. 9 July

    Essential Traits for Ultimate Self-Improvement and Business Success

    Unlock the exact mental blueprints required to elevate your personal development and scale your business ventures. In this special mashup episode of the Lead Counsel Podcast, host Tom Tona brings together elite legal minds and top business consultants to break down the core characteristics of true self-improvement. Discover the power of a growth-oriented mindset, the freeing nature of kind candor, and how focusing on your core identity can supercharge your decision-making. Whether you are looking to dominate a niche market using the Blue Ocean strategy, leverage compounding daily habits, or build an unstoppable support network, this episode provides actionable insights to help you win in both business and life. Tune in to learn why excellence, passion, and strong human relationships are the ultimate drivers of professional fulfillment and financial success. Episode Highlights The Power of a Growth Mindset: Discover why an open, inquisitive, and humble mindset is non-negotiable for long-term survival and scaling in any modern business. Embracing Kind Candor: Learn how balancing absolute honesty and transparency with kindness can set high organizational standards while maintaining authentic workplace relationships. The Hedgehog Concept and Core Identity: Find out how aligning your passions and natural talents allows you to make higher quality decisions ten times faster. The Blue Ocean Strategy: Shift your focus away from crowded, hyper-competitive spaces and learn how establishing an adjacent niche can naturally attract endless client referrals. The Compounding Effect of Daily Streaks: See how committing to small, laughably simple daily activities can compound into massive business milestones over time. Overcoming Self-Doubt with Confidence: Learn how to channel internal frustrations into fascinations, walk into rooms of industry giants with total confidence, and marry your professional networking with meaningful personal connections. Your Host: Tom Tona Founder & Managing Attorney, Tonalaw Website: https://www.tonalaw.com LinkedIn: Tom Tona X: @NYPITrialGuy This podcast is sponsored by TonaLaw. TonaLaw is not just another law firm. They're defining what it means to fight for their clients. We get a lot of attorney referrals from across the country. We pay fee participation in all jurisdictions where it's permitted. We focus on integrity, innovation and relentless advocacy. TonalLaw is proving that the business of the law can scale without losing its heart. Do you want to see how a modern firm is built for impact and happy client referrals? Check out tonalaw.com mention again the Lead Counsel Podcast and I'm happy to get on the phone with you.

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About

What happens when law, business & life collide? What if you could hang out with law firm owners and accomplished business leaders earning seven, eight, and nine figures a year, and gain insights that propel legal cases, and businesses forward exponentially? The Lead Counsel podcast, hosted by Thomas Tona, is a weekly show that delves into the world of law, the business of law, life, and where the three intersect. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with industry insiders and experts, thought leaders, and individuals that are making significant contributions and differences in their chosen fields. The show covers a wide range of topics related to law, the business of law, life and how they are intertwined. From the latest trends and research to personal stories and practical takeaways, the Lead Counsel podcast offers listeners deep dives on every topic discussed. The goal of this podcast is to provide zero cost to consumer information about law and the business of law, and related tools, to the general public. The show will include different segments, such as "Case of the Week," where the host gives his perspective on recent happenings in the industry, "Tools of the Trade," where the host and guests share valuable resources and tips for listeners, "Behind the Scenes" where the host and guests will share insights and stories not generally known in the industry, and "The Law Leader," where the host and guests will explore what it takes to build a 7,8 or 9-figure law firm and have a great life at the same time. Whether you're a lawyer, or non-lawyer, the Lead Counsel podcast is a must-listen for anyone looking to stay informed and inspired. The show is sure to be a valuable resource for anyone looking to learn more about your personal injury, no-fault collection, or other claims or lawsuits, as well as law firm business owners looking to perform at the highest levels of leadership.

Information

  • Creator
    Thomas Tona
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    168
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2023
  • Show Website
    Lead Counsel

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