Lead Counsel

Thomas Tona
  • 5.0 (31)
  • BUSINESS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

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. 5D AGO

    How to Scale a Law Firm Without Losing Culture, Clients, or Control A Leadership Mashup Episode

    What does it actually take to scale a law firm to eight figures and beyond without breaking your culture, your team, or yourself In this special mashup episode of The Lead Counsel Podcast, Tom Tona sits down with three proven law firm leaders who have built, rebuilt, and scaled high performing firms. This episode distills powerful insights from Seth Price, Christopher Nicolaysen, and Michelle Dellino on leadership, marketing, operations, intake systems, data driven growth, and building a scalable law firm with strong culture and profitability. If you are a law firm owner, managing partner, or growth focused attorney trying to move from seven figures to eight figures, this episode is a masterclass in what actually works. Key Topics Covered Scaling a law firm with strong culture and core values The golden trio of law firm growth including marketing, intake, and operations Why non lawyer operations leadership is critical to scale How to avoid hiring mistakes that destroy culture Building core values that actually drive hiring and firing decisions Law firm customer service as your most powerful marketing advantage Avoiding micromanagement and empowering your team Delegating to elevate and firing yourself from the wrong seat The difference between managing and leading Why deep focus thinking time is the real work of a CEO Referral based growth strategies before spending on marketing Systemizing your law firm operations for sustainable growth Building intake teams that close more cases Using KPIs, dashboards, and financial literacy to drive scale When to hire HR and operational leadership How data, systems, and people determine your growth ceiling Seth Price breaks down the fundamentals of scaling including the importance of marketing strategy, answering the phone effectively, and building strong operational leadership. He shares how culture must be reinforced through repetition, hiring filters, and leadership modeling. Christopher Nicolaysen dives deep into client experience, communication systems, and why great customer service is still the most underutilized growth lever in personal injury law. He explains how autonomy and trust unlock team performance and why micromanagement reflects leadership insecurity. Michelle Dellino shares her journey of scaling to sixteen attorneys in ten years, including hard lessons on growing too fast without infrastructure, the importance of EOS implementation, firing yourself from the managing attorney role, building dashboards and KPIs, systemizing intake, and making key leadership hires earlier. This episode is essential listening for attorneys serious about law firm growth, operational excellence, intake optimization, and sustainable profitability. Whether you are building your first million dollar firm or pushing toward eight figures, the principles discussed here will help you scale without losing your culture, your clients, or your vision.   Featured Guests: Seth Price Managing Partner at Price Benowitz LLP Website: Price Benowitz LLP LinkedIn:  Seth Price Christopher Nicolaysen  CEO, Springs Law Group Website: Springs Law Group LinkedIn:  Christopher Nicolaysen Michelle Dellino Website: Dellino Family Law Group TikTok: @seattledivorcelawyer Email: michelle@dellinolaw.com   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.

    30 min

  2. FEB 19

    140: Stop Being Polite and Get Rude: Bold Personal Injury Branding, Ethical Scaling, and Building a Modern Law Firm

    In this high energy episode of the Lead Counsel Podcast, Tom Tona sits down with Lee Rudin, founder of Rudin Law in New Orleans, to break down one of the most disruptive personal injury branding strategies in the country. Lee launched his firm in June 2023 and quickly built traction with a bold message that cuts through the noise in an overcrowded personal injury market: Stop Being Polite and Get Rude. But this episode goes far beyond clever marketing. Tom and Lee unpack what it really takes to build and scale a modern plaintiff law firm in 2026. From paid social media strategy and intake systems to ethics compliance, infrastructure, AI tools, offshore staffing, and political threats to plaintiff rights, this conversation is a masterclass in business minded lawyering. If you are a personal injury attorney, law firm owner, or entrepreneur looking to grow your firm without sacrificing integrity, this episode delivers practical insight and real world experience from two operators who are actively building. Key Highlights Personal Injury Branding That Breaks Through Lee explains how the Get Rude brand was born and why aggressive, authentic branding works in plaintiff personal injury law. He shares how merchandise, social media skits, and bold messaging drive engagement and build real brand recognition in competitive markets like New Orleans. Paid Social Media for Law Firms Tom and Lee discuss why organic reach is effectively dead and why law firms must treat social media as a pay to play channel. They cover boosted posts, brand building versus direct response marketing, and how to use platforms like Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok to stay top of mind with potential clients. Stop Competing with Other Lawyers The real competition is not the firm across town. It is the insurance industry and the political forces pushing tort reform. This episode dives into how insurance companies use messaging playbooks to influence public perception and why plaintiff lawyers must control the narrative. Scaling a Personal Injury Law Firm the Right Way Lee shares how he built a 14 person team with a strong mix of onshore and offshore staff. He breaks down the importance of intake training, AI call auditing tools, virtual staffing, and investing in infrastructure before pouring money into marketing. Avoiding the Leaky Bucket Spending tens of thousands on advertising is wasted if intake is not properly trained. Lee explains how he uses intake consultants and AI auditing to maximize signed retainers and protect return on marketing investment. Ethics and Aggressive Marketing Bold does not mean reckless. Tom and Lee discuss advertising ethics, compliance, avoiding misleading claims, and why every scaling firm should budget for an ethics attorney. Marketing without compliance is a fast track to losing your license. Masterminds, Mentorship, and Ego The conversation explores the danger of ego in law firm ownership, the value of mastermind groups, and why many lawyers struggle to scale because their identity is tied to the name on the door. Family, Balance, and the Real Why Both attorneys share how building a law firm must align with family priorities. Scaling without intentional balance leads to burnout and broken relationships. Sustainable growth requires clarity of purpose. Featured Guests: Lee Rudin Founding Attorney, Rudin Law Website: https://www.getrude.com/ LinkedIn:  Lee Rudin Instagram:  @getrudelaw 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.

    50 min

  3. FEB 12

    Adversity to Authority Building a Personal Injury Brand with Rilee Harrison of Cain Injury Lawyers

    In this powerful redo episode of the Lead Counsel Podcast, host Tom Tona sits down with Rilee Harrison, personal injury attorney at Cain Injury Lawyers in Oklahoma, to unpack the mindset, systems, and branding strategies that are helping him generate over 250 personal injury cases organically and build a scalable, client first law practice. Rilee shares how failing the bar exam the first time became the defining moment of his career. Instead of quitting, he built discipline, structure, and a relentless work ethic that now drives his success in trial work, business development, and firm growth. This episode is a masterclass in resilience, law firm marketing, social media for lawyers, associate to partner growth, and how to align personal values with firm leadership. If you are a personal injury lawyer, law firm owner, or ambitious associate looking to grow your book of business, build a referral network, or scale a modern law firm without sacrificing integrity, this episode is for you. Key Highlights Overcoming adversity in the legal profession and how failing the bar exam shaped a winning mindset How Rilee generated more than 250 personal injury cases organically through social media and networking The difference between business to business marketing and consumer facing legal advertising How to use Twitter X, LinkedIn, and local bar involvement to build a national referral network Why authenticity and personal brand are critical for lawyers in a competitive market Building trust with law firm owners as an associate and positioning yourself for long term leadership How Cain Injury Lawyers is scaling with alignment on vision, mission, and core values The importance of putting clients first in every decision and how that fuels long term growth Practical advice for young lawyers navigating private equity consolidation, tort reform, and a changing legal landscape Books every trial lawyer and law firm owner should read to sharpen trial skills and business acumen This conversation goes deep into the business of law, trial strategy, branding for lawyers, associate development, and law firm leadership. It is a must listen for anyone serious about building a high performance personal injury practice.   Featured Guests: Rilee Harrison Personal Injury Trial Attorney at Cain Law Office Website: https://cainlaw-okc.com/ LinkedIn:  Rilee Harrison X:  Barred and Bearded 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.

    42 min

  4. FEB 5

    How Coaching, Accountability, and Business Discipline Build Scalable Law Firms with Patrick Wilson

    This episode of the Lead Counsel Podcast builds directly on the previous full length conversation with Patrick Wilson of Atticus, offering additional insights, reflections, and high impact takeaways for law firm owners who want to scale without losing control of their lives or their values. Host Tom Tona continues the conversation with longtime friend and trusted law firm business coach Patrick Wilson, one of the longest standing coaches at Atticus. Together, they dive deeper into the real difference between coaching and consulting, why accountability is the missing ingredient for most law firms, and how personal injury lawyers are uniquely positioned to build powerful, profitable, and principled businesses. This episode is especially valuable for personal injury lawyers, small firm owners, and entrepreneurial attorneys who feel stuck practicing law instead of running a business. Patrick explains why law school fails to prepare attorneys for business ownership, why most lawyers procrastinate on management and marketing, and how structured coaching creates urgency where there are no natural deadlines. Listeners will hear a practical breakdown of why coaching works, how accountability drives action, and why business growth requires clarity around identity, passion, and talent. Patrick also shares his most recommended business books for attorneys at every stage and explains why principle based thinking beats trendy tactics and quick fixes. This popcorn episode reinforces the themes from the previous episode with Patrick Wilson and expands on how law firm owners can move faster, make better decisions, and build sustainable practices that serve both clients and families. Key Highlights The real difference between a coach and a consultant and why great advisors often do both Why accountability is the single biggest driver of growth for law firm owners How coaching fills the massive business education gap left by law school Why personal injury lawyers are the most entrepreneurial practice area How identity clarity leads to faster and higher quality business decisions Why most lawyers neglect marketing, hiring, and leadership until it hurts Patrick Wilson's top business book recommendations for attorneys How coaching improves not just law firms but marriages, parenting, and life outside the office Featured Guests: Patrick Wilson Sr. Management Consultant at Atticus  Website: https://atticusadvantage.com/ LinkedIn:  Patrick Wilson Email Patrick: patrickw@atticusadvantage.com 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. TonaLaw 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.

    21 min

  5. JAN 29

    From Referrals to Rainmaker: Rilee Harrison on Authentic Lawyer Branding and Building a Modern PI Practice

    In this high-impact episode of the Lead Counsel Podcast, host Tom Tona sits down with Oklahoma City personal injury lawyer Rilee Harrison—also known as "Barred and Bearded" on social media—to unpack the real formula behind modern legal marketing. From growing a loyal online following to generating over 250 cases organically without a single dollar spent on ads, Rilee shares a playbook for young lawyers, firm owners, and rainmakers alike. Together, Tom and Rilee explore how authenticity, values, and consistency are the cornerstones of lasting success in today's competitive legal landscape. You'll hear why Rilee believes you can't afford not to market, how a drunk driving accident shifted his career path, and how his partnership at Cain Law grew from digital influence to community leadership. This episode is a must-listen for lawyers looking to scale impact, align with mission-driven partners, or tap into referral-driven growth through smart personal branding. Key Highlights: Rilee's journey from a bar exam setback to becoming one of the most referred lawyers in Oklahoma. The 3-platform social strategy that generated 250+ cases organically. Why your "why" matters: how life experiences fuel authentic legal marketing. The secret to consistent referral business and rainmaking without ads. How to blend traditional networking with digital visibility for national reach. Advice to young lawyers: master a skill, be indispensable, and don't chase fast success. Community-building wins: backpacks, coat drives, and creating meaningful local impact. Why core values—like "client first"—must be lived out, not posted on walls. The growing influence of private equity in legal, and what it means for young attorneys. Featured Guests: Rilee Harrison Personal Injury Trial Attorney at Cain Law Office Website: https://cainlaw-okc.com/ LinkedIn:  Rilee Harrison X:  Barred and Bearded 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.

    53 min

  6. JAN 22

    The Ticking Time Bomb in Settlements: Protecting Firms and Clients Post-Verdict

    In this powerhouse episode of the Lead Counsel Podcast, host Tom Tona, founder and managing attorney of TonaLaw, sits down with nationally recognized settlement planning expert Michelle Fuller, founder of the Michigan Law Center. Michelle unpacks the critical yet often overlooked dangers that law firms face at the end of litigation—when settlement funds are distributed. Known for her expertise in special needs settlement planning, qualified settlement funds (QSFs), and public benefits protection, Michelle reveals how a poorly handled distribution can lead to liability landmines, client dissatisfaction, and even the unraveling of successful verdicts. This conversation is a must-listen for plaintiff attorneys, trial lawyers, and law firm leaders handling catastrophic injury, mass tort, and medical malpractice cases. Key Highlights: What is the "danger zone" post-verdict and why law firms must pay attention How to use Qualified Settlement Funds (QSFs) to protect clients and reduce tax burdens The real risk of placing settlement funds into your firm's IOLTA account How to prevent clients from losing government benefits such as Medicaid, SSI, and Section 8 Strategies to avoid the "lottery effect" where clients mismanage lump sum payouts When and why to involve a settlement planner early in the litigation process How to properly handle Medicare Set-Asides (MSAs) and why they matter more than you think Why family members should not act as trustees in special needs situations The "ticking time bomb" every trial lawyer should know about when handling special needs settlements 🌐 Tools to bulletproof your law firm from future liability This episode arms you with actionable insights to protect both your firm and your clients, helping you scale your practice ethically, efficiently, and with impact. Featured Guests: Michele Fuller Founder, Michigan Law Center.   Website: Michigan Law Center, PLLC The Architected Settlement Law Group LinkedIn:  Michelle Fuller 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.

    36 min

  7. JAN 15

    The Lawyer's Path to Wealth: Financial Freedom, Succession, and Smart Investments with Darren Wurz

    In this power-packed episode of the Lead Counsel Podcast, host Tom Tona sits down with Darren Wurz, certified financial planner, author of The Lawyer Millionaire, and founder of Lawyer Millionaire® Wealth Advisors. Together, they dive deep into financial strategies specifically designed for law firm owners, offering a roadmap to build lasting wealth, exit strategically, and secure long-term freedom. Episode Highlights: Why law firm owners must think like CEOs to truly scale and grow wealth The truth about insurance: risk mitigation vs. wealth-building myths Index funds, tax-loss harvesting, and the mechanics of efficient investing Smart tax planning strategies for law firm owners, including Roth conversions and structured fee arrangements The realities of law firm succession and the danger of owner dependency How to start investing early, even with just $10K or less Personal financial philosophies from both Tom and Darren—practical, humble, and effective Real-life money stories from attorneys and what they can teach you about financial independence Whether you're a solo practitioner just starting out or an established firm owner eyeing succession, this episode will give you actionable insight to enhance your financial life and law practice. Featured Guest: Darren Wurz Founder of Lawyer Millionaire® Wealth Advisors   🌐 Lawyer Millionaire® Wealth Advisors 🔗 Monty Cain on LinkedIn Book: The Lawyer Millionaire: The Complete Guide for Attorneys on Maximizing Wealth, Minimizing Taxes, and Retiring with Confidence Podcast: The Lawyer Millionaire Podcast Your Host: Tom Tona Founder & Managing Attorney, TonaLaw 🌐 www.tonalaw.com 🔗 Thomas Tona on LinkedIn  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.

    47 min

  8. JAN 8

    Scaling with Substance: Monty Cain on Growth, Brain Injuries, and Building a High-Impact PI Firm

    In this powerhouse episode of Lead Counsel, host Tom Tona, founder and managing attorney at TonaLaw, sits down with Monty Cain, founder of Cain Law Office in Oklahoma, for a deep dive into what it really takes to scale a personal injury law firm in today's hyper-competitive legal landscape. Monty Cain's journey is anything but ordinary. Starting his legal career at age 36 and launching his own firm at 52, Monty has grown Cane Law from a one-assistant outfit to a thriving PI powerhouse with 12 attorneys and over 50 staff across three offices. He shares the pivotal moments and strategies that fueled this meteoric rise — from mastering brain injury litigation to redefining trucking law in Oklahoma through precedent-setting Supreme Court victories. This episode covers: How Monty grew his firm by 600 percent in four years The power of investing in attorney education and sending trial lawyers to national conferences Why mastering brain injury medicine gave his firm a competitive edge The real impact of going to trial versus settling, and why litigation is a growth strategy How embracing EOS/Fireproof systems is helping transition Kane Law into a data-driven, scalable enterprise Why hiring slow is a mistake and how to use data to forecast staffing needs Tips on building client experience systems that scale — from intake to settlement The importance of strategic marketing, SEO accountability, and using brand-first advertising like their new "In Pain, Call Cain" campaign How private equity and hedge funds are reshaping the PI landscape and what smaller firms can do to compete For law firm owners, PI litigators, and legal entrepreneurs, this episode delivers practical, actionable insight on growing a firm with heart, systems, and serious results. Featured Guest: Monty Cain Owner and Managing Attorney, Cain Law 📧 monty@cainlaw-okc.com 🌐 www.cainlaw-okc.com 📞 (405) 759-7400 🔗 Monty Cain on LinkedIn Your Host: Tom Tona Founder & Managing Attorney, TonaLaw 🌐 www.tonalaw.com 🔗 Thomas Tona on LinkedIn  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.

    53 min
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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
    142
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2023
  • Show Website
    Lead Counsel

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