BE THAT LAWYER

Danielle Hendon: Building Sustainable Profit For Modern Law Firms

In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Danielle Hendon discuss: * Embracing perseverance * Shifting mindsets for sustainability * Transitioning toward flat fee models * Balancing finances for growth   Key Takeaways: * Perseverance shapes long-term success by turning setbacks into momentum rather than defeat. Continuing the work is what separates progress from failure. Stopping, not struggling, is the only real loss. * Firms thrive when they prioritize profitability and long-term health, ensuring they can keep serving clients with excellence. This mindset shift strengthens stability. It helps legal teams build a practice that lasts. * Moving from billable hours to flat fees boosts efficiency, scale, and client trust when managed with clarity and intention. Careful rollout keeps expectations aligned. The shift can transform the client experience. * Monitoring vital metrics like the rule of thirds helps maintain healthy revenue distribution and protects profitability. This supports passion projects and pro bono work. Clients benefit from transparency and lower stress.   "You are never a failure until you stop trying. Everything is an opportunity to win and move forward. You haven't failed until you stop persevering. When you've given up, that's failure." —  Danielle Hendon   Check out my new show, Be That Lawyer Coaches Corner, and get the strategies I use with my clients to win more business and love your career again.   Ready to go from good to GOAT in your legal marketing game? Don’t miss PIMCON—where the brightest minds in professional services gather to share what really works. Lock in your spot now: https://www.pimcon.org [https://www.pimcon.org/]/   Thank you to our Sponsor! Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/ [https://rankings.io/] HireParalegals: https://hireparalegals.com/ [https://hireparalegals.com/]   Ready to grow your law practice without selling or chasing? Book your free 30-minute strategy session now—let's make this your breakout year: https://fretzin.com/ [https://fretzin.com/]   About Danielle Hendon: Danielle Hendon is the Founder and CEO of 4 Corners CFO, where she helps small business owners make smart financial decisions. She has over a decade of experience in corporate finance and accounting, and once led an audit team through a corporate bankruptcy. Danielle believes that financial statements tell a story, not just numbers—and that entrepreneurs should be empowered to write their own chapters. She started 4 Corners CFO to give business owners clarity and confidence so they can build profitable and sustainable legacies. Before her finance career, she studied music. Today, she draws on that creativity to bring both discipline and vision to her work. At the heart of it all, Danielle is a mom—and her children inspire her daily to do work that matters.   Connect with Danielle Hendon:  Website: https://4cornerscfo.com/ [https://4cornerscfo.com/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielle-hendon/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielle-hendon/] Connect with Steve Fretzin: LinkedIn: Steve Fretzin [https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevefretzin/] Twitter: @stevefretzin [https://twitter.com/stevefretzin] Instagram: @fretzinsteve [https://www.instagram.com/fretzinsteve/] Facebook: Fretzin, Inc. [https://www.facebook.com/fretzinsteve] Website: Fretzin.com [https://fretzin.com/] Email: Steve@Fretzin.com [Steve@Fretzin.com] Book: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science [https://www.fretzin.com/about/books/] and more! [https://fretzin.com/about/books/] YouTube: Steve Fretzin [https://www.youtube.com/user/SalesResultsInc] Call Steve directly at 847-602-6911   Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. [https://www.turnkeypodcast.com/] You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

Be That Lawyer Live: Building a Practice That Lasts (Part 2)

In this episode, Steve Fretzin, Tim Semelroth, Casey Grabenstein, and Neil Dishman discuss: * Treating business development as essential * Using systems and empowering teams * Building a culture of growth * Learning through resilience and honesty   Key Takeaways: * Integrating business development into daily routines and tracking it like billable work ensures steady growth. Making it non-negotiable builds consistency and prevents unpredictable cycles. * Leveraging CRM tools, spreadsheets, and point systems keeps outreach organized and accountable. Involving junior lawyers in relationships and strategy builds future rainmakers. * Firms that reward, support, and normalize business development create sustainable success. Encouragement at every level strengthens engagement and results. * Focusing on process over outcome turns setbacks into lessons and maintains momentum. Honest communication and reflection foster better relationships and continuous improvement.   "For me, making myself feel satisfied that I’ve put in enough in that week to get good results, and then not worrying about whether the results come in… Try to stop worrying about the results and focus on the process is the best that I can do." —  Casey Grabenstein   Check out my new show, Be That Lawyer Coaches Corner, and get the strategies I use with my clients to win more business and love your career again.   Ready to go from good to GOAT in your legal marketing game? Don’t miss PIMCON—where the brightest minds in professional services gather to share what really works. Lock in your spot now: https://www.pimcon.org [https://www.pimcon.org/]/   Thank you to our Sponsor! Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/ [https://rankings.io/] HireParalegals: https://hireparalegals.com/ [https://hireparalegals.com/]   Ready to grow your law practice without selling or chasing? Book your free 30-minute strategy session now—let's make this your breakout year: https://fretzin.com/ [https://fretzin.com/]   About Tim Semelroth: Tim Semelroth is Iowa’s only board-certified truck accident attorney and a partner at RSH Legal. With over 25 years of experience, he provides trusted expertise in trucking litigation and collaborates with attorneys statewide and beyond. Known for his strategic approach and commitment to fairness, Tim offers consultation to help chart the best course for complex truck accident cases.   Connect with Tim Semelroth:  Website: https://www.timsemelroth.com/ [https://www.timsemelroth.com/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timsemelroth/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/timsemelroth/]   About Casey Grabenstein: Casey Grabenstein is a litigation partner at Saul Ewing LLP, handling complex commercial disputes and class actions involving securities, consumer fraud, and ERISA. He also advises clients in the cannabis and litigation funding industries, serving as both due diligence and primary counsel. A frequent writer and speaker, Casey brings deep insight into emerging issues in litigation finance and commercial law.   Connect with Casey Grabenstein:  Website: https://www.saul.com/professionals/casey-grabenstein [https://www.saul.com/professionals/casey-grabenstein] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/casey-grabenstein-a375094/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/casey-grabenstein-a375094/]   About Neil H. Dishman: Neil H. Dishman is a principal at Jackson Lewis P.C. in Chicago, where he helps employers prevent and resolve workplace disputes. His practice spans discrimination, retaliation, and wage-hour compliance, with extensive experience across multiple industries. A sought-after speaker and published author, Neil is known for his practical guidance on employment law and risk management.   Connect with Neil H. Dishman:  Website: https://www.jacksonlewis.com/people/neil-h-dishman [https://www.jacksonlewis.com/people/neil-h-dishman] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timsemelroth/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/timsemelroth/] Email: Neil.Dishman@jacksonlewis.com [Neil.Dishman@jacksonlewis.com]   Connect with Steve Fretzin: LinkedIn: Steve Fretzin [https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevefretzin/] Twitter: @stevefretzin [https://twitter.com/stevefretzin] Instagram: @fretzinsteve [https://www.instagram.com/fretzinsteve/] Facebook: Fretzin, Inc. [https://www.facebook.com/salesresults/] Website: Fretzin.com [https://fretzin.com/] Email: Steve@Fretzin.com [Steve@Fretzin.com] Book: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science [https://www.fretzin.com/about/books/] and more! [https://fretzin.com/about/books/] YouTube: Steve Fretzin [https://www.youtube.com/user/SalesResultsInc] Call Steve directly at 847-602-6911   Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. [https://www.turnkeypodcast.com/] You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

Be That Lawyer Live: Building a Practice That Lasts (Part 1)

In this episode, Steve Fretzin, Tim Semelroth, Casey Grabenstein, and Neil Dishman discuss: * Building consistent habits * Tracking meaningful metrics * Repurposing and leveraging content * Cultivating strategic relationships   Key Takeaways: * Dedicating time, using accountability systems, and leveraging support drives sustained business growth. Consistency and structure keep focus sharp and opportunities within reach. * Monitoring key indicators and focusing on high-value relationships ensures well-directed effort. Data-driven strategy prevents waste and maximizes measurable results. * Sharing content across channels expands reach and strengthens brand visibility. Strategic reuse multiplies impact without overextending resources. * Nurturing peers, colleagues, and referral sources yields lasting dividends. Balancing expertise with connection builds trust and opens new opportunities.   "It starts with knowing your numbers. You have to know where your cases are coming from. You have to track very carefully. You know what the average case value is. And once you start doing things like that, then the answers become obvious." —  Tim Semelroth   Check out my new show, Be That Lawyer Coaches Corner, and get the strategies I use with my clients to win more business and love your career again.   Ready to go from good to GOAT in your legal marketing game? Don’t miss PIMCON—where the brightest minds in professional services gather to share what really works. Lock in your spot now: https://www.pimcon.org [https://www.pimcon.org/]/   Thank you to our Sponsor! Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/ [https://rankings.io/] HireParalegals: https://hireparalegals.com/ [https://hireparalegals.com/]   Ready to grow your law practice without selling or chasing? Book your free 30-minute strategy session now—let's make this your breakout year: https://fretzin.com/ [https://fretzin.com/]   About Tim Semelroth: Tim Semelroth is Iowa’s only board-certified truck accident attorney and a partner at RSH Legal. With over 25 years of experience, he provides trusted expertise in trucking litigation and collaborates with attorneys statewide and beyond. Known for his strategic approach and commitment to fairness, Tim offers consultation to help chart the best course for complex truck accident cases.   Connect with Tim Semelroth:  Website: https://www.timsemelroth.com/ [https://www.timsemelroth.com/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timsemelroth/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/timsemelroth/]   About Casey Grabenstein: Casey Grabenstein is a litigation partner at Saul Ewing LLP, handling complex commercial disputes and class actions involving securities, consumer fraud, and ERISA. He also advises clients in the cannabis and litigation funding industries, serving as both due diligence and primary counsel. A frequent writer and speaker, Casey brings deep insight into emerging issues in litigation finance and commercial law.   Connect with Casey Grabenstein:  Website: https://www.saul.com/professionals/casey-grabenstein [https://www.saul.com/professionals/casey-grabenstein] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/casey-grabenstein-a375094/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/casey-grabenstein-a375094/]   About Neil H. Dishman: Neil H. Dishman is a principal at Jackson Lewis P.C. in Chicago, where he helps employers prevent and resolve workplace disputes. His practice spans discrimination, retaliation, and wage-hour compliance, with extensive experience across multiple industries. A sought-after speaker and published author, Neil is known for his practical guidance on employment law and risk management.   Connect with Neil H. Dishman:  Website: https://www.jacksonlewis.com/people/neil-h-dishman [https://www.jacksonlewis.com/people/neil-h-dishman] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neildishman/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/neildishman/] Email: Neil.Dishman@jacksonlewis.com [Neil.Dishman@jacksonlewis.com] Connect with Steve Fretzin: LinkedIn: Steve Fretzin [https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevefretzin/] Twitter: @stevefretzin [https://twitter.com/stevefretzin] Instagram: @fretzinsteve [https://www.instagram.com/fretzinsteve/] Facebook: Fretzin, Inc. [https://www.facebook.com/fretzinsteve] Website: Fretzin.com [https://fretzin.com/] Email: Steve@Fretzin.com [Steve@Fretzin.com] Book: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science [https://www.fretzin.com/about/books/] and more! [https://fretzin.com/about/books/] YouTube: Steve Fretzin [https://www.youtube.com/user/SalesResultsInc] Call Steve directly at 847-602-6911   Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. [https://www.turnkeypodcast.com/] You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

Lee Rudin: Turning Purpose Into Profit In Modern Law

In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Lee Rudin discuss: * Aligning business with purpose * Preparing financially before independence * Marketing actively and creatively * Leveraging systems, technology, and people   Key Takeaways: * Building a law practice around shared success creates deeper fulfillment and stronger client relationships. Choosing work that serves others transforms daily effort into long-term motivation and genuine impact. Purpose becomes the foundation that sustains growth beyond profit or recognition. * Launching a firm requires a clear understanding of cash flow, expenses, and delayed revenue cycles. Planning for at least 120 days without income establishes realistic expectations and stability. Financial awareness and discipline ensure resilience during the early, uncertain stages of growth. * Obscurity, not competition, remains the greatest risk in professional services. Consistent visibility through digital campaigns, community engagement, and creative branding drives trust. Distinct messaging turns curiosity into recognition and recognition into opportunity. * Efficiency grows when repetitive tasks are automated and skilled support is used effectively. Strategic use of offshore staff and fair compensation creates scalable, sustainable operations. Generosity, structure, and smart tools combine to amplify performance without excess cost.   "You’ve got to give people a reason to pick you. If you’re the same as everyone else, you’ll just disappear." —  Lee Rudin   Check out my new show, Be That Lawyer Coaches Corner, and get the strategies I use with my clients to win more business and love your career again.   Ready to go from good to GOAT in your legal marketing game? Don’t miss PIMCON—where the brightest minds in professional services gather to share what really works. Lock in your spot now: https://www.pimcon.org [https://www.pimcon.org/]/   Thank you to our Sponsor! Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/ [https://rankings.io/] HireParalegals: https://hireparalegals.com/ [https://hireparalegals.com/]   Ready to grow your law practice without selling or chasing? Book your free 30-minute strategy session now—let's make this your breakout year: https://fretzin.com/ [https://fretzin.com/]   About Lee Rudin: Lee Rudin is the Founder and Principal Attorney of Rudin Law, a New Orleans–based personal injury firm recognized for its bold and client-centered approach. A graduate of Tulane University and Tulane Law School, Lee began his career in insurance defense before founding his own firm to better align his work with his values, helping people while running a modern, efficient practice. Known for his innovative use of technology and offshore talent, Lee combines sharp legal skill with entrepreneurial creativity. His signature brand motto, “Stop Being Polite. Get Rude.”, captures his fearless style and commitment to standing up for clients.   Connect with Lee Rudin:   Website: https://www.getrude.com/ [https://www.getrude.com/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leerudin/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/leerudin/] & https://www.linkedin.com/company/rudin-law/ [https://www.linkedin.com/company/rudin-law/] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rudinlawnola/ [https://www.facebook.com/rudinlawnola/] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/getrudelaw/ [https://www.instagram.com/getrudelaw/]   Connect with Steve Fretzin: LinkedIn: Steve Fretzin [https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevefretzin/] Twitter: @stevefretzin [https://twitter.com/stevefretzin] Instagram: @fretzinsteve [https://www.instagram.com/fretzinsteve/] Facebook: Fretzin, Inc. [https://www.facebook.com/fretzinsteve] Website: Fretzin.com [https://fretzin.com/] Email: Steve@Fretzin.com [Steve@Fretzin.com] Book: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science [https://www.fretzin.com/about/books/] and more! [https://fretzin.com/about/books/] YouTube: Steve Fretzin [https://www.youtube.com/user/SalesResultsInc] Call Steve directly at 847-602-6911   Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. [https://www.turnkeypodcast.com/] You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

Walt Hampton: Building A Career That Feeds Your Soul

In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Walt Hampton discuss: * Following what lights you up * Mastering time instead of managing it * Saying no to create freedom * Preventing burnout through alignment   Key Takeaways: * Fulfillment doesn’t come from doing what seems logical but from pursuing what makes you come alive. Many lawyers achieve success yet feel empty inside. True success begins when you align your career with your values, strengths, and passions. * Time can’t be managed, only mastered. Working in focused 60–90 minute blocks, minimizing interruptions, and protecting white space helps restore clarity and productivity. How you use your time reflects how much you value yourself. * Every yes dilutes your energy and focus. Learning to say no with grace allows you to set boundaries and prioritize what truly matters. The word “no” is not rejection—it’s an act of self-leadership that protects your well-being. * Burnout fades when your choices reflect your purpose. Create white space, delegate with trust, and honor your physical and mental health. The goal isn’t just endurance—it’s building a life and practice that truly sustains you.   "No is a full sentence. Every yes we give dilutes our effectiveness." —  Walt Hampton   Check out my new show, Be That Lawyer Coaches Corner, and get the strategies I use with my clients to win more business and love your career again.   Ready to go from good to GOAT in your legal marketing game? Don’t miss PIMCON—where the brightest minds in professional services gather to share what really works. Lock in your spot now: https://www.pimcon.org [https://www.pimcon.org/]/   Thank you to our Sponsor! Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/ [https://rankings.io/] HireParalegals: https://hireparalegals.com/ [https://hireparalegals.com/]   Ready to grow your law practice without selling or chasing? Book your free 30-minute strategy session now—let's make this your breakout year: https://fretzin.com/ [https://fretzin.com/]   About Walt Hampton: Walt Hampton, J.D., is the Founder & CEO of Summit Success, LLC, a global personal and professional development firm dedicated to helping high-achievers design meaningful work, master time, and live with purpose. A 1984 graduate of Cornell Law School, Walt spent nearly 25 years as managing partner of a commercial litigation and criminal-defense law firm before transitioning to full-time coaching, consulting, training, and speaking. He is the bestselling author of books including Journeys on the Edge: Living a Life That Matters and The Power Principles of Time Mastery: Do Less, Make More, Have Fun. He has trained under Tony Robbins’ Results Coach program, and is a sought-after speaker on topics of leadership, time mastery, and sustainable peak performance. Beyond his professional work, Walt is known for his adventurous pursuits—high-altitude mountaineering, ultra-distance running, and blue-water sailing—underscoring his belief that personal transformation and professional mastery go hand in hand.   Connect with Walt Hampton:  Website: https://www.walthampton.com/ [https://www.walthampton.com/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/walthampton/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/walthampton/] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/walthamptonjr [https://www.facebook.com/walthamptonjr] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whamptonjr/?hl=en [https://www.instagram.com/whamptonjr/?hl=en] Connect with Steve Fretzin: LinkedIn: Steve Fretzin [https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevefretzin/] Twitter: @stevefretzin [https://twitter.com/stevefretzin] Instagram: @fretzinsteve [https://www.instagram.com/fretzinsteve/] Facebook: Fretzin, Inc. [https://www.facebook.com/fretzinsteve] Website: Fretzin.com [https://fretzin.com/] Email: Steve@Fretzin.com [Steve@Fretzin.com] Book: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science [https://www.fretzin.com/about/books/] and more! [https://fretzin.com/about/books/] YouTube: Steve Fretzin [https://www.youtube.com/user/SalesResultsInc] Call Steve directly at 847-602-6911   Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. [https://www.turnkeypodcast.com/] You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.