The Free Lawyer

Gary Miles
The Free Lawyer

The Free Lawyer Podcast is designed for the lawyer, entrepreneur or professional who is in some way unfulfilled, stressed or stuck and looking for something better. We will discuss various blocks that limit us from achieving the personal freedom we all desire but have not yet fully experienced. Are you looking to achieve a new level of success? If so, this podcast is for you!

  1. 1일 전

    260. How Can Lawyers Leverage LinkedIn for Professional Growth?

    In this episode of "The Free Lawyer," host Gary Miles, a seasoned lawyer with 45 years of experience, discusses the importance of LinkedIn for professional growth with Caroline Pennington, a LinkedIn expert. Caroline shares her journey and offers practical tips on optimizing LinkedIn profiles, creating engaging content, and building meaningful connections. The episode emphasizes the significance of consistent content creation, personal branding, and authentic engagement on LinkedIn. Caroline also highlights the benefits of pre-scheduling posts and measuring success through meaningful connections rather than viral moments. Former Corporate Executive Recruiter turned LinkedIn Expert Caroline teaches you how to grow your personal brand and business on LinkedIn! After 15 years of working in Corporate, she knew she was no longer serving her purpose. There was this tiny voice inside her saying, "You were made for more," and she couldn't ignore it any longer. In 2021, she launched ChilledVino, her patented wine drinkware product; in 2023, she launched my podcast, The Feminine Founder. LinkedIn as a Networking Platform (00:03:20) The advantage of LinkedIn is that it connects with potential clients compared to other social media. Optimizing LinkedIn Profile (00:05:12) Having a professional LinkedIn profile as an online resume for establishing expertise is important. About Section Best Practices (00:08:28) Tips for writing a practical and approachable 'About' section on LinkedIn. Finding Ideal Clients on LinkedIn (00:09:24) Strategies for using LinkedIn's search features to identify and connect with ideal clients. Effective Content Types (00:10:27) Discussion on the types of content that perform well on LinkedIn, emphasizing pro tips. Posting Frequency Recommendations (00:12:09) Caroline recommends posting five days a week for optimal engagement and visibility. Utilizing Polls on LinkedIn (00:13:03) The benefits of using polls to engage with the audience and gather insights. Importance of Video Content (00:13:35) Caroline highlights the growing significance of video content on LinkedIn for building trust. Personal Success on LinkedIn (00:14:21) Caroline shares her success story and opportunities that arose from her LinkedIn activity. Common LinkedIn Mistakes (00:16:28) Caroline identifies common objections and mistakes people make when starting on LinkedIn. Authenticity in LinkedIn Posts (00:17:33) The importance of mixing personal stories with professional content for authenticity. Building Connections on LinkedIn (00:18:46) Strategies for using direct messaging to build relationships with potential clients. Consistency on LinkedIn (00:20:21) The significance of posting consistently and how it enhances credibility and engagement. Content Scheduling Tips (21:06) Caroline discusses the benefits of pre-scheduling content for efficiency and engagement. Measuring LinkedIn Success (22:09) Gary and Caroline explore how to assess success on LinkedIn beyond going viral. Would you like to learn more about Breaking Free or order your copy? https://www.garymiles.net/break-free  Would you like to schedule a complimentary discovery call? You can do so here: https://calendly.com/garymiles-successcoach/one-one-discovery-call

    27분
  2. 4일 전

    259. How Can Lawyers Effectively Handle Difficult Opposing Attorneys?

    In this episode of "The Free Lawyer," host Gary Miles, with 46 years of litigation experience, discusses strategies for dealing with difficult opposing attorneys. He identifies various problematic behaviors such as aggression, uncooperativeness, manipulation, and condescension and their negative impacts, such as increased stress and reduced productivity. Gary offers practical advice on maintaining professionalism, setting boundaries, documenting interactions, and using effective communication and conflict-resolution techniques. The episode aims to help lawyers transform stressful interactions into growth opportunities, enhancing their professional resilience and effectiveness. The Challenge of Difficult Opposing Attorneys (00:01:08) Discussion on the everyday struggles lawyers face with rude or aggressive opposing counsel. Types of Difficult Behaviors (00:02:30) Overview of aggressive, uncooperative, manipulative, passive-aggressive, condescending, demanding, emotional, and non-communicative behaviors. Impact of Difficult Behaviors (00:07:52) Exploration of how challenging behaviors increase stress, reduce productivity, and lead to emotional exhaustion. Managing Difficult Attorneys (00:10:26) Strategies for maintaining professionalism and managing interactions with difficult opposing counsel. Upholding Professionalism (00:11:50) The importance of remaining composed and respectful in the face of provocation. Establishing Clear Boundaries (00:13:11) Communicating expectations for professional behavior from the outset of interactions. Documenting Interactions (00:13:50) The necessity of meticulous documentation of all communications with opposing counsel. Effective Communication Techniques (00:14:29) Strategies for clear and concise communication to minimize misunderstandings. Utilizing Conflict Resolution Techniques (00:15:53) Emphasizing areas of agreement to foster collaboration and reduce confrontation. Focusing on the Facts (00:16:32) Encouragement to keep discussions centered on legal issues rather than personal attacks. Obtaining Support (00:16:52) The value of seeking guidance and moral support from colleagues or mentors. Knowing When to Escalate (00:17:09) Advice on filing complaints against unethical or abusive opposing counsel. Would you like to learn more about Breaking Free or order your copy? https://www.garymiles.net/break-free  Would you like to schedule a complimentary discovery call? You can do so here: https://calendly.com/garymiles-successcoach/one-one-discovery-call

    20분
  3. 10월 24일

    258. The Best Strategies for Overcoming Billing Challenges in Law

    In this episode of "The Free Lawyer," host Gary Miles, a seasoned attorney with 45 years of experience, discusses common billing challenges lawyers face with guest Molly Kremer, a certified life coach and former litigator turned billing coach. Molly shares her journey from litigation to coaching, emphasizing the importance of contemporaneous billing over reconstructive billing to avoid inaccuracies and stress. She addresses psychological barriers like guilt and procrastination, offering strategies to shift mindsets and improve billing practices. The episode provides practical advice and insights to help lawyers manage their billing more effectively and achieve professional satisfaction. Molly Kremer is a Certified Life Coach, and former big law litigator turned billing coach who helps attorneys go from struggling with their billing to finally solve ALL of their unhelpful billing habits.  Unhelpful billing habits that most attorneys struggle with include procrastinating their billing, underbilling some time, missing or forgetting billable time, not billing for the time that could have been billed, and then having to overwork or overbill to make up for that time.  She’s been successfully helping hundreds of attorneys go from stressfully struggling and hating having to bill their time - to easy, effortless contemporaneous timekeeping utilizing her proven billing models and billing strategies.   Contemporaneous vs. Reconstructive Billing (00:04:32) Molly contrasts contemporaneous billing, which is done immediately, with reconstructive billing, which is done later. Common Billing Struggles (00:09:11) Molly identifies procrastination, underbilling, and confusion about billable tasks as major challenges for attorneys. Understanding Billable Time (00:10:48) Molly emphasizes that time is billable if it adds value and moves the case forward, encouraging open discussions. Addressing the Taboo of Billing (00:12:01) Molly aims to remove the stigma around billing, promoting conversations to help attorneys feel more confident. Strategies for Better Billing (00:12:59) Molly shares her coaching tools to help attorneys understand and overcome their negative thoughts about billing. Shifting Mindset Around Billing (00:15:03) Molly explains how generating awareness and shifting thoughts can help attorneys feel better about billing. Common Misconceptions About Billing (00:16:53) Molly discusses the belief that billing is unimportant and how it leads to avoidance and procrastination. Billing Backlog and Panic (00:17:57) Discussion on how billing piles up, leading to panic and procrastination as deadlines approach. Handling Interruptions (00:19:04) Strategies for managing constant interruptions while drafting motions and the impact on billing. Mindset Shifts for Billing (00:21:06) Coaching on overcoming procrastination and using pauses to improve billing practices. Guilt Over Guesstimating Time (00:24:28) Addressing feelings of guilt attorneys experience when they guesstimate their billing hours. Mindset's Role in Billing Practices (00:26:22) Exploring how mindset impacts billing habits and developing a positive billing identity. Taking Control of Time (00:29:15) Encouraging attorneys to manage their time intentionally rather than ceding control to others. Differences in Billing Challenges (00:31:00) Contrasting billing issues faced by new attorneys versus those with years of experience. Benefits of Improved Billing Practices (00:33:40) Clients report meeting billing goals and capturing more hours after adopting better practices. Emotional Freedom in Billing (00:35:38) Discussion on how emotional freedom impacts lawyers' billing practices and reduces guilt and stress. Would you like to learn more about Breaking Free or order your copy? https://www.garymiles.net/break-free  Would you like to schedule a complimentary discovery call? You can do so here: https://calendly.com/garymiles-successcoach/one-one-di

    43분
  4. 10월 21일

    257. How Can Lawyers Effectively Manage Difficult Clients?

    In this episode of "The Free Lawyer," host Gary Miles explores strategies for managing difficult clients in the legal profession, drawing from his 45 years of experience. He categorizes challenging clients into four types: those with unrealistic expectations, excessive communication demands, lack of trust, and emotional volatility. Gary emphasizes the importance of setting clear boundaries, educating clients, and maintaining effective communication. He also provides conflict resolution techniques and advises on ethically terminating client relationships when necessary. Throughout the episode, Gary underscores the value of empathy and professionalism in transforming challenging interactions into positive outcomes. Understanding Difficult Clients (00:03:43) Gary highlights the impact of demanding clients on professional success and personal well-being. Identifying Characteristics of Demanding Clients (00:05:03) Exploration of common traits of challenging clients, including unrealistic expectations and excessive communication demands. Emotional Volatility in Clients (00:06:19) Discussion on clients’ emotional states and the stress they experience during legal proceedings. Empathy and Client Selection (00:08:45) Gary emphasizes the importance of empathy and being selective in client representation. Setting Clear Expectations (00:09:48) Strategies for establishing boundaries and managing client expectations from the start. Communication Boundaries (00:11:00) Advice on setting communication limits to manage client demands effectively. Discussing Fees and Billing Practices (00:12:10) Importance of transparency in fees and billing to prevent misunderstandings. Effective Client Communication (00:12:38) The role of open communication in maintaining strong client relationships. Resolving Client Disputes (00:14:38) Strategies for managing conflicts and maintaining professionalism during disputes. Listening and Composure (00:15:49) The significance of active listening and staying calm when clients express concerns. Termination of Client Relationships (00:17:01) Guidelines for ethically and professionally terminating difficult client relationships. Would you like to learn more about Breaking Free or order your copy? https://www.garymiles.net/break-free  Would you like to schedule a complimentary discovery call? You can do so here: https://calendly.com/garymiles-successcoach/one-one-discovery-call

    22분
  5. 10월 17일

    256. The Best Strategies for Building a Thriving Law Firm in Today’s Market

    In this episode of "The Free Lawyer," host Gary Miles interviews Kellam Parks, managing member of Parks Ziegler law firm. They discuss Kellam's journey from law school to managing a successful, paperless, and tech-driven firm. Kellam shares practical insights on the importance of systematic planning, effective delegation, and time management. He highlights his use of the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) and the benefits of coaching. The conversation also covers work-life balance and technology integration in legal practice. Kellam emphasizes the value of continuous learning and offers practical advice that aspiring law firm owners can implement immediately. Kellam T. Parks is a managing member of Parks Zeigler, PLLC, headquartered in Virginia Beach. This paperless, technologically driven law practice has three offices in Virginia and North Carolina. Kellam is a Tidewater native who has practiced there for over 20 years. Kellam is active with the Virginia State Bar and is the former chair of the Special Committee on Technology and the Future Practice of Law Technology. Kellam frequently writes and speaks about the modernization and use of technology in law practice, including topics such as ethics, electronically stored information, and practice management/marketing. Decision-Making in Business (00:09:40) Kellam explains the difference between one-way and two-way door decisions in business. Transition to Managing a Law Firm (00:12:21) He discusses the challenges and rewards of shifting focus from practicing law to managing a firm. Desire to Help Other Lawyers (00:14:08) Kellam expresses his passion for coaching and supporting other lawyers in their careers. Benefits of Coaching and Learning (00:16:45) He shares insights gained from coaching and peer interactions at legal marketing conferences. Business Coaching Insights (00:19:29) Kellam discusses hiring a business coach to streamline operations and implement an organizational system. Mistakes in Firm Growth (00:20:49) Kellam reflects on early mistakes, including the need for a systematic game plan and core values. The Importance of Delegation (00:22:29) He shares lessons learned about the value of proper delegation and its impact on efficiency. Time Management Strategies (00:25:07) Kellam explains his regimented time management approach, including time blocking for tasks. Efficient Communication Practices (00:27:08) He emphasizes scheduling calls and managing client expectations to enhance efficiency. Advice for Aspiring Law Firm Owners (00:29:13) Kellam offers key questions and tips for lawyers considering starting their firms. Key Factors for Firm Success (00:35:11) He identifies integrity, reputation, and technology as crucial to the firm's success. Would you like to learn more about Breaking Free or order your copy? https://www.garymiles.net/break-free  Would you like to schedule a complimentary discovery call? You can do so here: https://calendly.com/garymiles-successcoach/one-one-discovery-call

    41분
  6. 10월 14일

    255. How Can Lawyers Build Stronger Relationships with Clients?

    In this episode of "The Free Lawyer," host Gary Miles, with 45 years of legal experience, explores the essential elements of building strong client relationships. He emphasizes managing client expectations, maintaining effective communication, providing exceptional service, and addressing client concerns. Gary advises lawyers to set clear expectations, communicate regularly, personalize services, and handle dissatisfaction professionally. By following these principles, lawyers can enhance client satisfaction and achieve greater success and fulfillment in their practice. Building Strong Client Relationships (00:01:05) Discuss enhancing client relationships through trust, exceptional service, and managing expectations. Managing Client Expectations (00:03:33) Exploration of strategies to set realistic expectations and understand client needs to avoid dissatisfaction. Effective Client Communication (00:09:50) Maintaining open communication, providing regular updates, and responding promptly to client inquiries are important. Providing Exceptional Service (00:13:47) Steps to personalize service, exceed client expectations and create a positive client experience. Handling Client Concerns (00:17:31) Strategies for addressing client dissatisfaction through active listening, professional responses, and proactive communication. Would you like to learn more about Breaking Free or order your copy? https://www.garymiles.net/break-free  Would you like to schedule a complimentary discovery call? You can do so here: https://calendly.com/garymiles-successcoach/one-one-discovery-call

    23분
  7. 10월 10일

    254. Finding Time for Business Development: Strategies for Busy Lawyers

    In this episode of "The Free Lawyer," host Gary Miles, with 45 years of legal experience, converses with Heather Moulder, a former big law partner turned lawyer coach. Heather, a breast cancer survivor, shares her journey from a successful legal career to coaching lawyers for personal and professional fulfillment. Key themes include the importance of personal values, tailored marketing strategies, work-life balance, emotional intelligence, active listening, acceptance, and intentional decision-making. Heather emphasizes the power of a support system and overcoming isolation in the legal profession, offering practical advice for lawyers seeking a more fulfilling career. Heather Moulder is a former Big Law partner (and 18+ year practicing attorney) turned lawyer coach, and host of the Life & Law Podcast. After a battle with breast cancer, she traded in her multi-million dollar book of business to help lawyers build their ideal law practice around the life they actually want to live. Using a unique framework tailored to each client's strengths, values and needs, Heather supports attorneys to build a seven-figure legal practice without having to sacrifice themselves in the process. Her clients rave about how this personalized framework enables them to both 10x their performance and reenergize professionally. Life & Law Podcast: https://www.lifeandlawpodcast.com Coaching: https://www.coursecorrectioncoaching.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heathermoulder/ Common Mistakes in Business Development (00:09:11) Heather identifies key mistakes lawyers make in business development, including incorrect assumptions. Connecting with Clients (00:10:46) Heather explains the need for lawyers to communicate in a way that resonates with clients' needs. Shifting Focus from Self to Client (00:11:03) She advocates for a mindset shift from self-promotion to focusing on serving clients effectively. Mindset Struggles in Business Development (00:12:30) Heather discusses lawyers' fears about reputation and how it affects their approach to business development. Overcoming Self-Promotion Fears (00:16:10) Heather shares strategies for lawyers to promote themselves authentically without feeling self-promoting. Finding Time for Business Growth (00:20:25) She addresses concerns about time management, offering insights on balancing business growth with a busy schedule. Marketing Strategies for Lawyers (00:21:32) She emphasizes starting with one marketing activity, like writing short LinkedIn posts, to build consistency. Aligning Skills with Values (00:22:37) The conversation focuses on aligning clients' skills and values to create effective marketing strategies. Balancing Work and Energy (00:27:09) They explore how to grow a business while maintaining balance and avoiding burnout. Intentional Time Management (00:29:10) The speakers discuss the importance of intentionally choosing how to use time for personal fulfillment. Acceptance as a Leadership Tool (00:34:29) Heather shares how accepting chaos can lead to a more fulfilling and balanced life. Emotional Intelligence in Leadership (00:36:54) The conversation shifts to the importance of emotional intelligence for effective leadership and self-awareness. Listening as a Leadership Skill (00:38:41) They discuss how becoming a better listener enhances leadership abilities and understanding of others. Would you like to learn more about Breaking Free or order your copy? https://www.garymiles.net/break-free  Would you like to schedule a complimentary discovery call? You can do so here: https://calendly.com/garymiles-successcoach/one-one-discovery-call

    45분
  8. 10월 7일

    253. The Best Strategies for Lawyers to Blend Work and Life Successfully (Pt. 2)

    In this episode of "The Free Lawyer," host Gary Miles continues his series on work-life integration, offering strategies for lawyers to manage stress and balance their professional and personal lives. Emphasizing flexibility over strict boundaries, Gary provides actionable advice on identifying priorities, effective time management, creating flexible work arrangements, focusing on self-care, and building a support network. He highlights the benefits of work-life integration, such as improved health, productivity, and relationships. Gary encourages lawyers to adopt these strategies to achieve a more balanced and fulfilling life. What is Work-Life Integration? (00:01:10) Discussion on how work-life integration differs from work-life balance, emphasizing flexibility. Challenges of Work-Life Integration (00:02:25) Overview of the challenges lawyers face in achieving work-life integration. Benefits of Work-Life Integration (00:03:40) Exploration of the advantages, including improved health, productivity, and personal freedom. Identifying Priorities (00:04:58) Strategies for identifying personal and professional priorities and aligning them with core values. Effective Time Management Strategies (00:06:32) Tips on scheduling, prioritizing tasks, and avoiding multitasking for better efficiency. Creating Flexible Work Arrangements (00:09:04) Advice on negotiating flexible work schedules to balance personal and professional responsibilities. Focus on Self-Care (00:10:29) Importance of self-care practices in managing stress and maintaining health. Building a Support Network (00:12:56) The role of a supportive network in achieving work-life integration and personal fulfillment. Would you like to learn more about Breaking Free or order your copy? https://www.garymiles.net/break-free  Would you like to schedule a complimentary discovery call? You can do so here: https://calendly.com/garymiles-successcoach/one-one-discovery-call

    18분
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The Free Lawyer Podcast is designed for the lawyer, entrepreneur or professional who is in some way unfulfilled, stressed or stuck and looking for something better. We will discuss various blocks that limit us from achieving the personal freedom we all desire but have not yet fully experienced. Are you looking to achieve a new level of success? If so, this podcast is for you!

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