Grow Your Law Firm Ken Hardison

Welcome to episode 228 of the Grow Your Law Firm podcast, hosted by Ken Hardison. In this episode, Ken interviews Vivek Rao, co-founder and CEO of Foundation AI. They highlight how well-organized data and technology can streamline document management in law firms, increasing efficiency, reducing costs, and enhancing client satisfaction. The conversation emphasizes the value of using AI as a solution to specific business problems rather than just a standalone technology.
 
Vivek Rao is co-founder and CEO of Foundation AI, an intelligent document processing company focused on automating document intake and routing, data entry, and other tedious tasks for litigation firms.  Prior to founding Foundation AI in 2019, Vivek ran the medical lien unit at one of California’s largest workers’ compensation firms while moonlighting as counsel to numerous startups ranging from webstars to venture-backed startups.  Vivek started his AI journey over a decade ago when he served as corporate counsel of Enlightiks, a healthcare AI platform focused on the medical provider space.  After Enlightiks was acquired in 2016, Vivek recruited and convinced the technical brains behind it to apply their AI expertise to solve the document processing challenges that plague litigation firms.  Five years later, Foundation AI processes millions of documents a month for some of the nation’s top personal injury firms.  Vivek earned his B.S. in Business Administration from USC and his JD and MBA degrees from UCLA.
 
What you’ll learn about in this episode:
 
Importance of Well-Organized Data and Maximizing Efficacy with Technology:
- Well-organized data allows for better access, sharing, and utilization, giving law firms a competitive edge.
- Leveraging technology, like AI systems, can automate manual tasks, enhance efficiency, and optimize the use of other software tools.  Benefits of Document Automation:
- Document automation not only saves time and money but also ensures consistency and easy data extraction for informed decision-making.
- Automation tools, like Foundation AI Astronaut, act as a bridge to reduce manual labor and facilitate the effective use of digital platforms in law firms. Value in Problem-Oriented AI Solutions:
- AI should be viewed as a tool to solve specific business challenges rather than just a standalone technology.
Companies that offer AI solutions tailored to solve practical problems demonstrate more value than those solely focused on selling AI technology. Continuous Evaluation for Operational Efficiency in Firm Scaling:
- Proper utilization of automation tools can enhance efficiency as law firms grow, preventing cost escalation and ensuring sustainable profitability.
- Regular assessment of workflows and technologies is crucial to maintain operational efficiency and profitability as a law firm expands. Limitations of Foundational Models and Utilizing Specialized AI Models:
- Foundational models like GPT, though powerful, may lack specificity for legal tasks and exhibit overconfidence, leading to potential errors.
- Specialized AI models like Bert and Roberta offer tailored solutions for tasks like data extraction and question answering, addressing the limitations of general foundational models.  
Resources: 
https://www.linkedin.com/company/foundation-ai/
http://www.foundationai.com/legal
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61550019396552
https://www.linkedin.com/in/vivekrao-foundationai/
 
Additional Resources: 
 
https://www.pilmma.org/aiworkshop
https://www.pilmma.org/the-mastermind-effect
https://www.pilmma.org/resources
https://www.pilmma.org/mastermind

Welcome to episode 227 of the Grow Your Law Firm podcast, hosted by Ken Hardison. In this episode, Ken sits down with Brooke Lively, President of Cathedral Capital. Brooke emphasizes the importance of data-driven strategies like EOS and scaling up and highlights the crucial steps to prepare a law firm for sale, focusing on clean financials, efficient operations, and staff training. The conversation delves into hiring the right people, implementing proper procedures, and fostering a deliberate culture to ensure consistency, efficiency, and growth within a law firm.
 
Brooke discovered her passion for helping entrepreneurial lawyers build their firms by working with her father. After getting her MBA in Corporate Finance and Investments at TCU and a quick stint at a hedge fund, Brooke found herself helping her family establish a new firm, which hit the 7-figure mark within 18 months.  Soon thereafter, she started talking to other lawyers who asked, “Can you do for us what you do for your family?”. 
 
That was when she realized that most attorneys aren’t running their firms by the numbers.  They are making decisions based on their gut and that causes a lot of anxiety – not to mention a loss of profitability. With that insight, Brooke started Cathcap, a fractional CFO company designed to maximize law firm profitability.
 
Over the past decade, Brooke and her team have helped hundreds of firms make data driven decisions to drive faster growth and more predictability in their businesses. As a CFO, Brooke looks at every part of a firm that touches the money – and that’s the whole firm. This eventually led her to become an EOS® Implementer. Through EOS, Brooke helps firms get clarity on their vision, discipline and accountability to increase traction, and a healthy functional leadership team.
 
Brooke weaves the technical knowledge of her MBA with her real-world experience to create entertaining speeches that have been heard around the world for groups such as Entrepreneur’s Organization, Bar Associations, and at conferences like PILMMA, 360 Advocacy, and the Louisiana Association of Justice. She has written numerous books, including her international best-selling series From Panic to Profit and her latest, Exit On Top. Brooke has been featured in Forbes, CNBC, US News and World Report and has a monthly financial column in Attorney at Work.  She is a frequently requested podcast guest.
 
1. The Importance of Vision, People, and Data in EOS:
        - Ensuring everyone is on the same page about the firm's direction.
        - Having the right individuals in the right roles.
2. Addressing Issues and Improving Procedures:
        - Identifying and solving problems permanently.
        - Documenting processes for consistency and efficiency.
3. Achieving Traction and Alignment:
        - Getting everyone aligned and rowing together towards the vision.
        - Bringing the vision down to practical implementation.
4. Preparation for Law Firm Sale:
        - Creating a timeline for Sale Readiness for clean financials and profitability.
        - Creating characteristics of a firm that's a joy to own.
5. Transitioning from Working in the Firm to Managing the Firm:
        - Being able to manage the firm with minimal effort.
        - Reaching a stage where you're managing managers and not day-to-day operations.
 
Resources: 
cathcap.com
https://www.facebook.com/CathedralCapital
https://www.linkedin.com/in/brookelively/
 
Additional Resources: 
 
https://www.pilmma.org/aiworkshop
https://www.pilmma.org/the-mastermind-effect
https://www.pilmma.org/resources
https://www.pilmma.org/mastermind

Welcome to episode 226 of the Grow Your Law Firm podcast, hosted by Ken Hardison. In this episode, Ken sits down with Hamid Kohan, President and CEO of Legal Soft. Hamid and Ken discuss how AI and automation transform the legal industry, improving client interactions and retention. They delve into the importance of leveraging technology for client acquisition, personalized communication, and nurturing lasting relationships to boost law firm profitability and efficiency while adapting to the evolving landscape of legal practice.
 
Distinguished Serial Entrepreneur, Author, and Legal Tech Innovator Hamid Kohan is a dynamic force in the business world, celebrated for his exceptional ability to scale law firms of all sizes. His journey began in Silicon Valley, where he served as the Director of Business Development at Sun Microsystems, collaborating with prominent figures like Eric Schmidt (Google CEO) and Carol Bartz (Yahoo CEO). From there, he took on the role of President at Web Radio, orchestrating a remarkable ascent to a valuation of $1 billion and leading the company to a successful IPO on the New York Stock Exchange.

Currently, Hamid stands as the President and CEO of Legal Soft, spearheading the revolution of the legal industry and virtual legal staffing. His visionary leadership has propelled Legal Soft to the forefront of legal tech innovation, optimizing law firm operations and driving efficiency.
Moreover, Hamid is the esteemed founder of Magic Law Group, a prestigious national law firm specializing in personal injury, lemon law, employment law, and workers' compensation. His entrepreneurial prowess has established Magic Law Group as a leading force in the legal landscape.

Notably, Hamid is an award-winning author, with influential books like "How to Scale Your Stupid Law Firm," "How to Scale Your Stupid AI Law Firm," and the upcoming "How to Tune-Up Your Practice." These acclaimed works equip legal professionals with invaluable strategies, enabling them to achieve growth and success.

With an unwavering commitment to legal tech innovation, Hamid Kohan is at the forefront of AI initiatives in the industry, further solidifying his position as a thought leader and trailblazer.
 
What you’ll learn about in this episode:
 
1. How to leverage technology for client retention:
        - Establishing formal programs for client retention
        - Nurturing existing clients for referrals and repeat business
 
2. The AI Impact in Law Firms:
        - Utilizing AI for client acquisition
        - Enhancing marketing strategies with AI insights
 
3. Importance of Regulations in AI Implementation:
        - Ensuring transparency and compliance with regulations
        - Disclosing the use of AI tools to clients and audiences
 
4. Using AI in Case Management:
        - Streamlining case management processes with AI
        - Automating document collection and medical record summaries
 
5. Simplifying AI Adoption in Law Firms:
        - Providing all-in-one AI solutions tailored to specific practice areas
        - Making AI tools user-friendly and easy to navigate
 
Resources: 
https://www.tiktok.com/@legal.soft?lang=en
https://www.threads.net/@legal.soft
https://www.instagram.com/legal.soft/?hl=en
https://legalsoft.com/hamid-kohan/
 
Additional Resources: 
 
https://www.pilmma.org/aiworkshop
https://www.pilmma.org/the-mastermind-effect
https://www.pilmma.org/resources
https://www.pilmma.org/mastermind

Welcome to episode 225 of the Grow Your Law Firm podcast, hosted by Ken Hardison. In this episode, Ken sits down with Jon Cumberworth. They discuss the vital role of a fractional COO in law firms, emphasizing the importance of clarity in vision and communication for team alignment. They delve into leveraging technology, AI, and offshore resources to optimize efficiency and profitability, highlighting the transformative impact on business growth and success.
 
Jon Cumberworth's primary focus is on assisting service-based businesses in defining and implementing frameworks and systems that enable them to achieve their revenue, profit, and leadership development objectives. With over 19 years of experience in both international and domestic business operations and leadership, he appreciates the opportunities that have led to success in various roles across multiple industries. His achievements include progressing within a global sales team to become General Manager in Dubai for an 8-figure steel supply and manufacturing business and negotiating the successful acquisition of a bootstrapped company he co-founded.


Having worked in both large corporations and bootstrapped startups, Jon has discovered the critical importance of intentional and sincere efforts in creating a positive company culture and investing in leadership development for long-term business success. He recognizes that achieving these goals demands consistent dedication and focus from the top down. Jon understands that a company's performance is largely influenced by its people. He prioritizes hiring individuals who align with the company's core values over those who merely fit the skillset and experience criteria. For Jon, it is essential to foster a culture where team members feel comfortable sharing ideas and concerns, as this openness is vital for their growth and development.
 
What you’ll learn about in this episode:
1.  Importance of Clarity in Vision:
Having a clear vision of who you serve and what products/services you offer is crucial for strategic growth. Utilizing technology, AI, and automation can streamline processes, increase profitability, and save time for adding value. 2. Role of Fractional COO:
Fractional COOs play a key role in implementing the firm's vision and building teams for growth. Businesses may struggle with finding and keeping great employees, emphasizing the need for effective hiring processes. 3. Execution is Key:
Knowledge alone is insufficient; successful outcomes require putting knowledge into action effectively. Considering offshore resources and AI can enhance efficiency and profitability without the need for significant staff expansion. 4. Strategic Growth in Stages:
Growth, profitability, and freedom often come in stages, with clarity being the foundation for progress. Empowering team members with technology to handle tasks like data analysis and call grading can increase efficiency and bottom-line growth. 5. Identifying Business Needs:
Asking critical questions about business growth goals and team challenges can help determine the need for a fractional COO. Overcoming hiring difficulties and conveying a clear vision to employees is essential for business success and talent retention.
 
Resources: 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/joncumberworth/
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091565901209
https://twitter.com/ActingExecs
 
Additional Resources: 
 
https://www.pilmma.org/aiworkshop
https://www.pilmma.org/the-mastermind-effect
https://www.pilmma.org/resources
https://www.pilmma.org/mastermind

Welcome to episode 224 of the Grow Your Law Firm podcast, hosted by Ken Hardison. In this episode, Ken sits down with David Klein, Director of Business Development at ConsulTV. They discuss the benefits of Connected TV Advertising, offering a special deal for podcast listeners. David shares insights on tracking digital marketing campaigns and reflects on his experience with traditional TV advertising strategies.
 
David works with law firms and their agencies across the country helping them maximize the effectiveness of their programmatic media buying. After 15 years of managing pay-per-click advertising, SEO, targeted display ads, social media marketing, and website building, he joined ConsulTV in October 2021 to help digital advertisers move toward programmatic ad buying, especially in the OTT and online video arena. 
 
What you’ll learn about in this episode:
How to Allocate Sufficient Budget: Ensuring that enough budget is set aside for streaming ad campaigns is crucial, as underfunding can lead to poor outcomes. Just like direct mail campaigns require substantial investment for significant results, streaming ads need proper financial backing to be effective. Focus on Targeting and Frequency: The success of streaming TV ads heavily depends on how accurately audiences are targeted. Controlling how often ads are shown to the same viewer is essential to maximize impact without causing viewer fatigue. Understand Cost Differences: Although streaming ads might have higher costs per thousand impressions (CPMs) than traditional TV ads, the benefits of targeted reach and customization can justify the expense. Viewing the higher costs as an investment in more precise and impactful advertising can lead to better overall returns. Technological Advancements in TV: With more affordable smart TVs becoming common, the reach of streaming ads extends to a broader audience. Enhancements in TV technology not only improve user experience but also expand how advertisers can engage with potential clients. Strategic Advertising for Lead Generation: The primary objective of any advertising effort is to generate leads and drive business growth. Monitoring and analyzing the results of digital marketing campaigns ensures that law firms can adapt and optimize their strategies in an ever-changing media landscape.  
Resources: 
https://www.consult.tv/
https://www.facebook.com/Consult.tv
https://twitter.com/ConsultvandOLV
https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidkleinsalesleader/
 
Additional Resources: 
 
https://www.pilmma.org/aiworkshop
https://www.pilmma.org/the-mastermind-effect
https://www.pilmma.org/resources
https://www.pilmma.org/mastermind

Welcome to episode 223 of the Grow Your Law Firm podcast, hosted by Ken Hardison. In this episode, Ken sits down with Tanner Jones, VP of Business Development, and Matt Smyers, Senior Digital Advertising Advisor, at Consultwebs. They discuss essential strategies for optimizing Local Service Ads (LSAs) on Google, emphasizing the importance of quick response to calls and messages, consistent positive reviews, and effective use of the LSA dashboard. The discussion also touches on the significance of bid and budget management, lead nurturing and adapting marketing strategies to Google's evolving algorithms and AI influences.
 
As  Vice President of Business Development, Tanner Jones oversees all business development opportunities for Consultwebs and our clients. He has the privilege of speaking with virtually every law firm that contacts Consultwebs and working with them to determine how we may accomplish their digital marketing goals. Tanner earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, with a concentration in Management, from Berea College in 2008. His journey with Consultwebs began in 2009, and he now has over a decade of experience consulting with law firms on case-driving online marketing strategies.
 
He was originally drawn to Consultwebs because of how we have remained a leader in the niche of legal marketing. Tanner often quotes the Canadian hockey player, Wayne Gretzky, when he says, “Skate to where the puck is going, not where it has been.” For Tanner, Consultwebs strives to do just that. He says, “I’ve always been drawn to companies with an intentional focus because it often breeds stronger results, efficiencies, and scalability.” When it comes to what sets Consultwebs apart, Tanner’s first thought is the distinctiveness of our team. “We are proud to have built one of the strongest teams in the country, ranging from licensed attorney content writers, innovative social media consultants, and award-winning designers, to expert programmers, and highly experienced search marketing consultants. We know that we are only as strong as our individual team members, and we hire accordingly.”
 
Tanner is a native of Waynesville, North Carolina, where he lives with his wife, daughter, and son. Aside from spending time with his family, Tanner also enjoys camping, hiking, fishing, hunting, golfing, and playing “any other competitive sport available.” However, he admits that his goal for sports has gone from “win” to “don’t get injured.”

 
Matt Smyers is a non-practicing attorney who brings more than 10 years of experience in the legal marketing industry to his role as a Senior Digital Advertising Advisor at Consultwebs.

Matt helps law firms and clients connect through the strategic planning and execution of digital advertising campaigns, using Google Adwords, Facebook, Bing, Yahoo and other paid online advertising opportunities.

“Law firm marketing requires a very specific set of skills and a deep understanding of the legal industry,” Matt says. “It is our commitment at Consultwebs to marketing exclusively for law firms that allows us to understand our clients so well and to deliver the results that we deliver.”
 
What you’ll learn about in this episode:
 
1. Optimizing LSA Effectiveness:
Rapidly respond to calls and messages to improve user experience and enhance Google ranking. Focus on accumulating positive feedback on Google Business profiles while actively managing and responding to reviews.  
2. Strategic Use of LSA Dashboard:
Use the dashboard to detect useful patterns and keywords for more accurate targeting. Employ the notes section for adding pertinent keywords and additional details for each lead to refine targeting.  
3. Enhancing Lead Engagement:
Gain a comprehensive understanding of various lead stages, such as 'Booked' within the LSA dashboard. Maintain regular activity and interactions with leads to demonstrate engagement a