Spill The Ink Michelle Calcote King

Reports of attorneys grappling with issues like anxiety, depression and substance abuse remain alarmingly high as the legal industry continues fighting for ground in the battle against mental health and well-being issues. 
This Mental Health Awareness Month and Well-Being in Law Week, we’ve invited well-being consultant Tara Antonipillai to discuss the state of the legal industry and actionable strategies law firms can implement to expand wellness programs and enact positive change at their firms.
Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn Who Tara Antonipillai is
About Cultivate and The Institute for Well-Being in Law
The common mental health challenges attorneys and legal professionals experience
Practical strategies for sparking positive change at your law firm
How to spot signs that your attorneys may be struggling, and what you can do to help
Tips for leaders on fostering a supportive work environment
Why following through is the most crucial step in promoting mental health at work
What loneliness in the workplace looks like and how it affects attorneys
Whether mental health and well-being programs can influence a firm’s ability to grow business and revenue
About our featured guest The founder of Cultivate, Tara Antonipillai's experience in professional well-being comes from a career in Big Law, a master's degree in applied psychology and ongoing research in the field. Tara is a consultant, speaker and coach who combines her unique set of skills to introduce topics that include the science of well-being, job satisfaction, communication, stress management, compassionate leadership, mindfulness, resilience, mindset, and engagement and belonging to law firms and other organizations.
Tara received her J.D. and undergraduate degree from Georgetown University and was a tax lawyer at Arnold & Porter’s DC office. She also holds a master’s degree in applied positive psychology from the University of Pennsylvania. Tara is a certified leadership and performance coach through Brown University. She is also a certified yoga instructor and meditation teacher, as well as a certified Mental Health First Aid instructor.
Resources mentioned in this episode Check out Cultivate and The Institute for Well-Being in Law
Follow Cultivate on LinkedIn
Follow The Institute for Well-Being in Law on X, LinkedIn and Instagram
Connect with Tara Antonipillai on LinkedIn
Say hello to Michelle Calcote King on X and LinkedIn
Sponsor for this episode This episode is brought to you by Reputation Ink.
Founded by Michelle Calcote King, Reputation Ink is a public relations and content marketing agency that serves professional services firms of all shapes and sizes across the United States, including corporate law firms and architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) firms. 
Reputation Ink understands how sophisticated corporate buyers find and select professional services firms. For more than a decade, they have helped firms grow through thought leadership-fueled strategies, including public relations, content marketing, video marketing, social media, podcasting, marketing strategy services and more.
To learn more, visit www.rep-ink.com or email them at info@rep-ink.com today.

Soon after starting as an intern architect, Heather Blazi realized the job didn’t spark joy quite the way she imagined while watching HGTV as a kid. So she adjusted her path. Today, she’s the marketing director at Pfluger Architects, a design firm specializing in the education market.
Heather joins us to discuss owning your niche, market expansion and building an effective team with diverse skills. She shares why Pfluger encourages architects to use LinkedIn and how a strong brand supports proposal development, boosts employee engagement and amplifies recruitment efforts.
Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn Who Heather Blazi is
About Pfluger Architects
How Heather’s architecture background influences her work as a marketer
Insights into the growing intersection between marketing and business development
The benefits of niche marketing
How to effectively leverage your niche during proposal writing and market expansion
Why use thought leadership to market your team’s knowledge, expertise and capabilities
The importance of a strong firm brand and positioning
About Pfluger’s recent successes with strategic email marketing
Why Pfluger encourages its architects to use LinkedIn
How people-centric social media posts aid in attracting prospective clients and architecture talent
About our featured guest Heather Blazi is the principal-in-charge of marketing at Pfluger Architects, a firm on a mission to inspire people to create a more meaningful human experience. With nearly 10 years of experience, Heather has planned and executed marketing initiatives contributing to Pfluger's growth and expansion across Texas. Beyond the world of architectural marketing, Heather has two daughters who bring boundless inspiration (and chaos) to her every day, reminding her of the importance of creativity, adaptability and being open to a fresh perspective. Heather enjoys volunteering and crafting anytime she can. With a heart for service, a commitment to her family and a flair for strategic thinking, she hopes to continue making a positive impact on those around her.
Resources mentioned in this episode Check out Pfluger Architects
Follow Pfluger Architects on X, Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram
Connect with Heather Blazi on LinkedIn
Say hello to Michelle Calcote King on X and LinkedIn
Sponsor for this episode This episode is brought to you by Reputation Ink.
Founded by Michelle Calcote King, Reputation Ink is a public relations and content marketing agency that serves professional services firms of all shapes and sizes across the United States, including corporate law firms and architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) firms. 
Reputation Ink understands how sophisticated corporate buyers find and select professional services firms. For more than a decade, they have helped firms grow through thought leadership-fueled strategies, including public relations, content marketing, video marketing, social media, podcasting, marketing strategy services and more.
To learn more, visit www.rep-ink.com or email them at info@rep-ink.com today.

Law firms are relationship-driven businesses — and not only in terms of attorney-client relationships. Aricia Gallaher’s recipe for success is to approach marketing with an understanding that nurturing connections is kingpin, both internally and externally. 
Aricia is the marketing director at Chambliss, Bahner & Stophel, a full-service law firm in Chattanooga. In this episode, Aricia reflects on the lessons learned during a two-decade career and the role her servant leadership approach has played in the firm’s growth. Host Michelle Calcote King also talks with her about facilitating thought leadership, marketing technology, LinkedIn for attorneys, and maximizing industry networks like Meritas.
Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn Who Aricia Gallaher is
About Chambliss, Bahner & Stophel
How to capture a distinctive brand on your firm’s website
Ideas to facilitate content development with attorneys
How strategic partnerships can benefit a firm’s presence
The benefits of thought leadership as a long-term strategy
Why law firms need to prioritize marketing automation
LinkedIn’s vital role in growing law firm business
The ways industry networks like Meritas can bolster a marketing strategy
About our featured guest With over two decades of experience in marketing operations, communications, public relations, event management, business development, and client relationship management, Aricia stands as a seasoned and versatile professional adept at navigating the intricacies of today's dynamic business landscape. Throughout her career, Aricia has consistently demonstrated a remarkable ability to drive impactful results and foster enduring connections. She has collaborated with a diverse range of clientele, including some of the nation’s largest health systems. She has leveraged her comprehensive knowledge to orchestrate successful marketing campaigns, spearhead innovative communication strategies and execute high-profile events that resonate with target audiences. As a visionary leader, Aricia has played a pivotal role in shaping the growth trajectories of numerous organizations, utilizing her strategic acumen to identify and capitalize on emerging opportunities. Her keen understanding of market trends, coupled with her exceptional interpersonal skills, has enabled her to cultivate strong client relationships and foster long-term partnerships built on trust and mutual success.
Aricia's passion for innovation and process enhancement is evident as she diligently uncovers business opportunities, executes strategies with precision and champions customer service excellence. Her relentless pursuit of innovation and her ability to adapt to evolving industry landscapes make her a driving force in any team or organization she is a part of. Aricia consistently pushes boundaries and delivers unparalleled value in each project, showcasing her enthusiasm and commitment to excellence in marketing and business development. She holds a proven track record of achievement and a reputation for excellence, making her a trusted advisor and leader in her field. As she continues to make strides in her professional journey, she remains dedicated to driving positive change and shaping the future of marketing, communications, business development, and — most importantly — the client experience.
When offering advice to aspiring professionals, Aricia emphasizes the importance of seeking out strong mentors. She underscores the value of cultivating connections with individuals at various stages of their professional journey to gain invaluable insights and guidance.
Resources mentioned in this episode Check out Chambliss, Bahner & Stophel
Follow Chambliss, Bahner & Stophel on Facebook and LinkedIn
Connect with Aricia Gallaher on LinkedIn
Say hello to Michelle Calcote King on X and LinkedIn
Sponsor for this episode This episode is brought to you by Reputation Ink.
Founded by Michelle Calcot

Professional services buyers want to see more than simple boilerplate to inform their decision about why they should hire you. Marketing needs to be tailored as much as possible to address their specific needs and concerns.
Derek Goodroe, marketing director at Ashley McGraw Architects, talks about why he invests time and resources into carefully tailoring each request for proposal (RFP) — even if it takes hours to get it right. He and host Michelle Calcote King discuss the evolution of the architecture industry and the marketer’s role. They also cover the tools Ashley McGraw uses to expand reach and impact, including email marketing and industry conferences.
Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn Who Derek Goodroe is
About Ashley McGraw Architects and the Vaysen Studio
How competition for architecture services has intensified over time
The challenges marketing departments, especially small teams, face when writing proposals
What elements make an RFP response more competitive
Best practices for crafting a tailored proposal that sells
Tips for collaborating with architects to elevate the quality of your RFP responses
How to leverage conferences as a business development and marketing tool
Better ways to use email to connect with clients and prospects
The marketing department’s influence on firm culture and employee engagement
About our featured guest Derek Goodroe is the director of marketing at Ashley McGraw Architects. He has been with Ashley McGraw since 2010 and cumulatively has over 19 years of marketing experience, including 16 years in professional services. 
His strategic vision and approach to marketing and business development have been pivotal in steering Ashley McGraw Architects' growth and presence, particularly within the firm's Syracuse, New York, and Washington, DC, offices. While overseeing the development and delivery of a fully integrated marketing strategy for the firm, Derek is also dedicated to driving business development, fostering a culture of collaboration and ensuring the firm's values are reflected in every marketing message, client interaction and proposal pursuit. Derek is a member of the Upstate New York chapter of the Society for Marketing Professional Services (SMPS).
Resources mentioned in this episode Check out Ashley McGraw Architects and Vaysen Studio
Follow Ashley McGraw on Facebook, LinkedIn, X and Instagram
Connect with Derek Goodroe on LinkedIn
Say hello to Michelle Calcote King on X and LinkedIn
Sponsor for this episode This episode is brought to you by Reputation Ink.
Founded by Michelle Calcote King, Reputation Ink is a public relations and content marketing agency that serves professional services firms of all shapes and sizes across the United States, including corporate law firms and architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) firms. 
Reputation Ink understands how sophisticated corporate buyers find and select professional services firms. For more than a decade, they have helped firms grow through thought leadership-fueled strategies, including public relations, content marketing, video marketing, social media, podcasting, marketing strategy services and more.
To learn more, visit www.rep-ink.com or email them at info@rep-ink.com today.

The legal industry isn’t known for its trailblazing progress on the diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) front — but it is improving. Many law firms are integrating DEI strategy into their core business model, and the benefits of this shift are touching nearly every area, from prospecting and marketing to recruitment and talent development.
In this episode, Lee Watts joins us to talk about her new role as Director of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at Bass, Berry & Sims. She discusses the firm’s strategy and reflects on how DEI influences a firm’s brand, reputation and competitive advantage.
Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn Who Lee Watts is
About Bass, Berry & Sims
How DEI has changed over the years
DEI’s influence on law firm brand and reputation
How to be a DEI advocate within your own circle of influence
The importance of analyzing all business matters through a DEI lens
The potential impacts of emerging lawsuits targeting firm DEI initiatives
About Bass, Berry & Sims’ active programs, including its affinity groups and educational partnerships
About our featured guest Lee Ashby Watts is the Director of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) at Bass, Berry & Sims. She works to advance diversity, equity and inclusion and to support the recruitment, retention and advancement of underrepresented lawyers and professionals. Lee has over 20 years of experience in the legal industry, helping law firms, attorneys and legal professionals develop and implement strategic plans.
Lee brings a keen understanding of communications and client service, having worked in legal marketing and business development for most of her career. Prior to joining Bass, Berry & Sims, she led a consulting firm where she coached, trained and consulted with hundreds of leaders. Previously, she served in a variety of roles within law firms, including as the chief marketing officer at global law firm Smith, Gambrell & Russell, LLP for nearly a decade.
Lee is a certified business development coach as well as a frequent facilitator and speaker, addressing personal branding, public speaking, marketing, diversity and inclusion. She sits on the board of the Legal Marketing Association Southeast and the nonprofit organization Kate’s Club. She is also a member of the professional women’s network CHIEF, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated, Junior League of Atlanta and ColorComm. Lee is an Ohio University graduate and earned her MBA from Georgia State University.
Resources mentioned in this episode Check out Bass, Berry & Sims
Follow Bass, Berry & Sims on X, Facebook and LinkedIn
Connect with Lee Watts on LinkedIn
Say hello to Michelle Calcote King on X and LinkedIn
Sponsor for this episode This episode is brought to you by Reputation Ink.
Founded by Michelle Calcote King, Reputation Ink is a public relations and content marketing agency that serves professional services firms of all shapes and sizes across the United States, including corporate law firms and architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) firms. 
Reputation Ink understands how sophisticated corporate buyers find and select professional services firms. For more than a decade, they have helped firms grow through thought leadership-fueled strategies, including public relations, content marketing, video marketing, social media, podcasting, marketing strategy services and more.
To learn more, visit www.rep-ink.com or email them at info@rep-ink.com today.

Jill Davis leads the marketing department at Cline Design, an interdisciplinary architecture, planning and interior design firm in North Carolina. She recently guided the 35-year-old firm through a successful rebrand and website redesign and is constantly re-examining Cline’s marketing strategy to meet evolving client needs.
In this episode, Jill and host Michelle Calcote King discuss Cline’s marketing strategy through the years, including its 2023 rebrand. They also cover how to encourage architects, designers and other subject-matter experts to contribute to marketing initiatives that showcase the firm’s expertise and culture, such as thought leadership and social media.
Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn Who Jill Davis is
About Cline Design
Why Cline decided to do a rebrand and how the marketing team approached the project 
Which marketing tools are the most impactful to Cline’s strategy and why
Why invest in thought leadership and examples of common challenges
Tactics for engaging busy subject-matter experts in content creation and marketing initiatives, including thought leadership and social media
When to use your internal team to produce video content versus hiring a videographer
How to integrate a public relations strategy into your communications plan
The benefits of professional organizations like the Society for Marketing Professional Services
About our featured guest Jill Davis has over two decades of expertise in marketing, including over 10 years of specializing in the architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) industry. Her journey in this sector began in 2013 with HOK in St. Louis, where she played a pivotal role in securing high-profile projects nationwide thanks to her innovative strategies and collaboration with both regional and senior leaders.
As a Principal and Marketing Director at Cline, Jill spearheads marketing initiatives and strategic planning. Her focus is on nurturing growth and exploring new opportunities that promise a bright future for the firm. At Cline, she finds daily inspiration in the creativity and insight of her colleagues, a talented team of marketers, architects, designers and branding professionals.
Jill's commitment extends beyond her professional sphere. In St. Louis, she actively participated in the Society for Marketing Professional Services (SMPS), taking on various leadership roles. Her dedication to SMPS continued through her moves to Raleigh and Charlotte, where she serves as the 2024 President-Elect of the Charlotte chapter. Additionally, her alma mater, the University of Missouri-St. Louis, benefited from her contributions as a member of the marketing advisory board, where she mentored students and engaged in the Midwest Digital Marketing Conference (MDMC) scholarship committee.
Resources mentioned in this episode Check out Cline Design Associates
Follow Cline Design on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram
Connect with Jill Davis on LinkedIn
Say hello to Michelle Calcote King on Twitter and LinkedIn
Sponsor for this episode This episode is brought to you by Reputation Ink.
Founded by Michelle Calcote King, Reputation Ink is a public relations and content marketing agency that serves professional services firms of all shapes and sizes across the United States, including corporate law firms and architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) firms. 
Reputation Ink understands how sophisticated corporate buyers find and select professional services firms. For more than a decade, they have helped firms grow through thought leadership-fueled strategies, including public relations, content marketing, video marketing, social media, podcasting, marketing strategy services and more.
To learn more, visit www.rep-ink.com or email them at info@rep-ink.com today.