For the past three years, most conversations about AI in the legal and dispute resolution professions have fallen into one of two categories: fear or hype. Either AI was coming to replace everyone, or it was being presented as a magical solution that could somehow run your practice for you overnight. But professions are finally moving into a new phase of the conversation, one grounded in practical reality, thoughtful implementation, ethical responsibility, and strategic opportunity. In this episode of The Practice Playbook Podcast, Susan Guthrie goes inside the upcoming AI and the Practice of Law Summit with two of the leaders helping shape that conversation: Joseph Gartner, Director of the ABA Center for Innovation and Deian McBryde, Chair of the Planning Committee for the upcoming ABA AI Summit. Together, they explore where AI adoption in legal practice actually stands right now, what professionals are getting wrong, what is finally starting to work, and why the future of professional practice may belong to those who learn how to combine technology with the uniquely human skills clients value most. This is not another surface-level AI conversation. It is a candid and practical discussion about: Real-world AI implementation in law firms and professional practices The shift from AI theory to actionable workflows Billing and pricing challenges in an AI-driven practice environment Ethical guardrails and responsible technology adoption AI agents and what they may mean for the future of legal work Why solo and small firm professionals have enormous opportunities right now How mediators, arbitrators, and dispute resolution professionals fit into the evolving landscape The growing importance of judgment, creativity, strategy, and counseling in an AI-supported profession Whether you are AI-curious, actively experimenting with tools like ChatGPT and Claude, or already integrating AI into your practice, this episode offers practical insights and a grounded perspective that cuts through the noise. Susan and her guests also discuss the upcoming AI Summit, a virtual two-day program designed to help professionals at every level of AI adoption move from information overload to practical implementation. ABA's "The AI and the Practice of Law Summit", May 18th and 19th The program is fully virtual and all sessions will be available on demand afterward, which honestly was the deciding factor for me because I cannot attend live either, but I absolutely registered so I can access all of the content afterward. Registration is very reasonably priced at about $200 for members and $240 for non-members, and there is also a discount code available. Use code SUMMIT10 for 10% off registration. More information and Registration Meet our Guests: Joseph“Joey”Gartner focuses on the skill set of the modern lawyer. As Director and Counsel at the ABA Center for Innovation and former staff counsel to the ABA Task Force on Law and Artificial Intelligence, he approaches the profession’s challenges and opportunities with a broad, practical lens. Joey believes innovation starts with the individual and grows from well-rounded capabilities—such as data fluency, an iterative mindset, and technology competence—to complement legal expertise. His experience across practice and legal operations informs a steady approach to change and skill-building. He encourages balanced adoption of technology—AI included—grounded in client value and risk awareness rather than hype. He also helps lawyers develop the mindset to work at the top of their license and think creatively about how legal services are delivered. Joey frequently speaks on innovation, change readiness, the delivery of legal services, and artificial intelligence. He holds a J.D. from the University of Illinois Chicago School of Law. Deian McBryde is a New Mexico litigator and appellate attorney, mediator and settlement facilitator, and a judge pro tempore for the Tonto Apache Tribal Court in Arizona. Deian worked in business consulting, adult learning, technology, wellness, and the arts before pivoting to the law later in his career. He is a former chair of the State Bar’s Solo & Small Firm Section and is currently a member of the governing board of the ABA’s Center for Innovation and a Fellow of the American Bar Foundation, who has presented continuing education sessions locally and nationally. Deian is online at www.mcbrydelaw.com. Meet Our Creator and Host: Susan Guthrie Susan E. Guthrie is one of the most respected voices in mediation and conflict resolution today. A nationally recognized family law attorney and mediator for 35 years, she is now a top professional coach and consultant helping dispute resolution and legal professionals build thriving, modern practices. Susan recently appeared on The Oprah Podcast, expanding her reach to an even broader audience and highlighting her role as a trusted expert in divorce, communication, and modern conflict resolution. She is also the creator and host of The Divorce & Beyond Podcast, ranked in the top 1% worldwide, with millions of listeners and a global following. As Immediate Past Chair of the American Bar Association Section of Dispute Resolution, Susan continues to shape the future of the profession while training and mentoring practitioners around the world. Connect with Susan E. Guthrie Website: https://susaneguthrie.com Books: https://susaneguthrie.com/books LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/susaneguthrie Instagram: @susaneguthrie and @practiceplaybookpodcast If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to subscribe to The Practice Playbook Podcast on your favorite platform, leave a 5-star review, and share the episode with a colleague or professional friend who would benefit from this conversation. Your support helps us continue bringing practical insights, forward-thinking strategies, and meaningful conversations to lawyers, mediators, arbitrators, and entrepreneurial professionals looking to build stronger, smarter, and more sustainable practices. And as always, please remember that this podcast is presented for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended as legal advice, business advice, or professional advice of any kind, and listening to this podcast does not create any attorney-client or professional relationship.
