A Different Practice - podcast cover

A Different Practice

ADifferentPractice.comadifferentpractice.substack.com
How do I build a solo law practice that doesn’t lead to burnout? How do I break free of the traditional, one-size-fits-all idea of being a lawyer? How do I create a sustainable, fulfilling, and profitable practice? If you’re ready to free yourself of the legal profession’s antiquated approach and build a better solo practice, this podcast is for you. A Different Practice is a business and well-being podcast for solo and semi-solo attorneys looking for actionable strategies to earn more and work less. It's hosted by Lauren Lester, an active solo attorney in Colorado.

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Episodes

69: 3 TED Talks You Have To Watch To Learn About Goal Setting

Your micro-episode for tested strategies that actually work in solo practice. Get proven solutions delivered straight to your inbox at ⁠adifferentpractice.com/subscribe⁠ . This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit adifferentpractice.substack.com/subscribe...

Mar 14, 20253 min

Software (Part 2): How to Run a Law Firm in 2025

In this episode of How to Run a Law Firm in 2025 , Mathew Kerbis and I wrapped up our deep dive into essential law firm software with part two—focusing on the tools that keep your practice running smoothly behind the scenes . We covered everything from legal document databases to marketing platforms, plus the often-overlooked essentials like password management and security tools every modern law practice needs. We also shared practical tips on choosing the right phone system, creating reliable ...

Mar 13, 202529 min

68: The SEO Secrets Every Lawyer Should Know with Brandon Lebowitz

Unlock the mystery of SEO without drowning in technicalities. In this episode, SEO expert Brandon Liebowitz breaks down why search engine optimization isn't just a buzzword—it's your secret weapon for getting clients without burning through your marketing budget. Having leveraged SEO to build my own practice from scratch, I can tell you it's a game-changer for solo attorneys. Brandon shares practical strategies to boost your online visibility, including the content sweet spots Google loves, how ...

Mar 11, 202537 min

67: How I'd Set Up a Guaranteed Profitable Practice

Your micro-episode for tested strategies that actually work in solo practice. Get proven solutions delivered straight to your inbox at ⁠adifferentpractice.com/subscribe⁠ . This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit adifferentpractice.substack.com/subscribe...

Mar 07, 20253 min

Software (Part 1): How to Run a Law Firm in 2025

In this episode of How to Run a Law Firm in 2025 , Mathew Kerbis and I kicked off part one of our deep dive into the software every solo and small firm owner should know about. We shared the tools we actually use in our own practices—what’s been worth the investment and what you can skip, especially when you’re just getting started. We covered the essentials, like affordable scheduling software, payment processors that make it easy for clients to pay you, and website platforms that won’t drain y...

Mar 06, 202528 min

66: Stress ≠ Success

Your micro-episode for tested strategies that actually work in solo practice. Get proven solutions delivered straight to your inbox at ⁠adifferentpractice.com/subscribe⁠ . This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit adifferentpractice.substack.com/subscribe...

Feb 28, 20254 min

Hardware (Part 2): How to Run a Law Firm 2025

In this episode of How to Run a Law Firm in 2025 , Mathew Kerbis and I are back with part two of our deep dive into essential law firm hardware—this time focusing on how to level up your audio and video setup without blowing your budget. We went beyond the basics to share what really makes a difference when you’re on video calls, recording podcasts, or appearing in remote court. From lighting solutions that instantly improve your on-screen presence to simple microphone techniques that help you s...

Feb 27, 202521 min

65: Breaking the Yes Habit: A Lawyer's Guide to Saying “No”

As lawyers and entrepreneurs, we're wired to seize every opportunity – but what if saying 'no' could be your most powerful business strategy? In this episode, I dive deep into why saying 'no' feels so impossible, especially for legal professionals, and how to transform this challenge into a strength. You'll discover why that gut-level 'yes' reflex might be holding you back, learn practical strategies for buying yourself time to make better decisions, and master the art of declining opportunities...

Feb 25, 202515 min

64: How I Cut My Drafting Time By 90%

Your micro-episode for tested strategies that actually work in solo practice. Get proven solutions delivered straight to your inbox at ⁠adifferentpractice.com/subscribe⁠ . This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit adifferentpractice.substack.com/subscribe...

Feb 21, 20256 min

Hardware (Part 1): How to Run a Law Firm in 2025

In this episode of How to Run a Law Firm in 2025 , Mathew Kerbis and I kicked off part one of our deep dive into a topic that doesn’t get nearly enough attention—your hardware setup. We shared how we each built tech-enabled practices, from basic setups to more advanced configurations, and why the hardware you choose really does matter for both productivity and client perception. We broke down the pros and cons of laptops vs. desktops and shared some clever, budget-friendly ways to upgrade your v...

Feb 20, 202524 min

63: How I Doubled My Client Reviews in 10 months (Without Begging)

Your micro-episode for tested strategies that actually work in solo practice. Get proven solutions delivered straight to your inbox at ⁠adifferentpractice.com/subscribe⁠ . This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit adifferentpractice.substack.com/subscribe...

Feb 14, 20255 min

Evaluating Tech: How to Run a Law Firm in 2025

In the sixth episode of How to Run a Law Firm in 2025 , Mathew Kerbis and I dove into one of the hottest (and sometimes most overwhelming) topics for solos—how to evaluate and choose the right technology for your practice. We talked about how easy it is to fall into “shiny object syndrome,” chasing the latest tools without really knowing if they solve a real problem. That’s why we both emphasize starting with your specific needs first, then finding the tech to meet them—not the other way around....

Feb 13, 202534 min

Evaluating Tech: How to Run a Law Firm in 2025

In the sixth episode of How to Run a Law Firm in 2025, Lauren and Mathew discuss how they evaluate and discover new technology for their practices. They emphasize the importance of identifying specific needs before adopting new tech tools and warn against “shiny object syndrome.” They also discuss the importance of regularly reviewing their tech stack to eliminate unnecessary subscriptions and ensure their tools remain cost-effective. They suggest tracking software and subscription costs to help...

Feb 13, 202534 min

62: The Power of Authenticity: Transforming Your Legal Career from the Inside Out with Andrea Johnson

What if the biggest impact on your law practice had nothing to do with business strategies or marketing? In this enlightening episode, leadership coach Andrea Johnson reveals how understanding and honoring your core values can transform your legal career. We dive deep into the difference between professional expectations and authenticity, how to navigate workplace dynamics while staying true to yourself, and why leading yourself first is crucial for success. Whether you're feeling stuck in a pra...

Feb 11, 202543 min

61: Don’ts and Dos: Overhead Costs

Your micro-episode for tested strategies that actually work in solo practice. Get proven solutions delivered straight to your inbox at ⁠adifferentpractice.com/subscribe⁠ . This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit adifferentpractice.substack.com/subscribe...

Feb 07, 20255 min

Marketing: How to Run a Law Firm in 2025

In the fifth episode of How to Run a Law Firm in 2025 , Mathew Kerbis and I tackled a challenge every lawyer faces—how to pitch your services without sounding like, well…a lawyer. We talked about the struggle of crafting a great elevator pitch, especially when you have more than one practice area. Mathew even shared how he created a marketing jingle to stand out (yes, really!), while I talked about how I focus my messaging around helping clients “protect their peace.” One of the biggest lessons ...

Feb 06, 202530 min

Marketing: How to Run a Law Firm in 2025

In the fifth episode of How to Run a Law Firm in 2025, Lauren and Mathew discuss strategies for pitching legal services and creating marketing materials. They explore the challenges of crafting effective elevator pitches, particularly when handling multiple practice areas. Throughout the discussion, they highlight the importance of authenticity in marketing and the need to adapt pitches for different contexts and audiences. ---- Want proven tips to help you build a thriving solo practice from so...

Feb 06, 202530 min

60: The 3 Finance Books Solo Lawyers Should to Read

Your micro-episode for tested strategies that actually work in solo practice. Get proven solutions delivered straight to your inbox at ⁠adifferentpractice.com/subscribe⁠ . This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit adifferentpractice.substack.com/subscribe...

Jan 31, 20253 min

Finding Clients: How to Run a Law Firm in 2025

In the fourth episode of How to Run a Law Firm in 2025 , Mathew Kerbis and I dove into one of my favorite topics—law firm marketing and how to actually get clients. We shared the strategies we use to manage that all-important first client contact, from streamlining online scheduling to making sure our websites clearly communicate how we can help. One thing we both avoid? Those outdated “About Me” pages. Instead, we focus on creating content that speaks directly to the problems our clients are tr...

Jan 30, 202537 min

Finding Clients: How to Run a Law Firm in 2025

In the fourth episode of How to Run a Law Firm in 2025, Lauren and Mathew discuss their approaches to law firm marketing and client acquisition. They share their strategies for managing initial client contact, emphasizing the importance of streamlined processes like online scheduling and clear website communication. They stress the importance of authentic marketing that aligns with an attorney’s genuine interests and values, rather than using aggressive sales tactics. Want proven tips to help yo...

Jan 30, 202537 min

59: LinkedIn Secrets: What 90% of Lawyers Are Missing with Julie Livingston

In this episode, LinkedIn expert Julie Livingston reveals how attorneys can transform their LinkedIn profiles from static resumes into powerful client-generating tools. Julie shares actionable strategies for building thought leadership, explains why less than 10% of attorneys effectively use LinkedIn despite 89% having profiles and provides a step-by-step approach to developing engaging content. Learn the do's and don'ts of professional networking on LinkedIn, how to optimize your profile with v...

Jan 28, 202528 min

58: Want a Successful Solo Practice? Stop Working So Much

Your micro-episode for tested strategies that actually work in solo practice. Get proven solutions delivered straight to your inbox at ⁠adifferentpractice.com/subscribe⁠ . This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit adifferentpractice.substack.com/subscribe...

Jan 24, 20254 min

Learning and Staying Up-to-Date: How to Run a Law Firm in 2025

In the third episode of How to Run a Law Firm in 2025 , Mathew Kerbis and I tackled a big question: how do you keep learning and stay up to date without completely overwhelming yourself? We shared the resources we rely on for both legal updates and business growth. Mathew talked about using bar association memberships and Lexology to stay current on legal developments, and we both agreed that some of the best business advice actually comes from outside the legal world. I shared some of my favori...

Jan 23, 202529 min

57: How To Solve The 3 Biggest Problems of Solo Practice

Your micro-episode for tested strategies that actually work in solo practice. Get proven solutions delivered straight to your inbox at ⁠adifferentpractice.com/subscribe⁠ . This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit adifferentpractice.substack.com/subscribe...

Jan 17, 20253 min

Branding: How to Run a Law Firm in 2025

In the second episode of How to Run a Law Firm in 2025 , Mathew Kerbis and I had a candid conversation about something every solo attorney wrestles with at some point—how to choose the right name for your firm and when (or if) to pivot your practice. We shared our own naming journeys—Mathew chose a descriptive name that reflects his niche, while I went the more traditional route with a surname-based name. We explored how your firm’s name can shape client perceptions, affect your marketing, and e...

Jan 16, 202533 min

56: Work-Life Flexibility: Rethinking Time Management for Attorneys with David Buck

Lauren sits down with David Buck, author of “The Time Optimized Life,” to discuss a fresh approach to time management for lawyers. Instead of rigid rules like waking up at 5 AM or checking email once daily, David introduces his PEC framework and the concept of 'work-life flexibility.' Learn how to identify your personal productivity zones, handle email effectively, combat smartphone distractions, and create a proactive rather than reactive schedule. David shares practical strategies for maintain...

Jan 14, 202533 min

55: "You Will Never Be Successful"

Your micro-episode for tested strategies that actually work in solo practice. Get proven solutions delivered straight to your inbox at ⁠adifferentpractice.com/subscribe⁠ . This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit adifferentpractice.substack.com/subscribe...

Jan 10, 20254 min

Entity Formation: How to Run a Law Firm in 2025

I recently sat down with Mathew Kerbis to kick off our new series on How to Run a Law Firm in 2025! In this first conversation, we dove into a topic that trips up a lot of new solo attorneys: choosing the right business entity for your firm. We shared our own experiences—how I used Google to figure it out nine years ago (yep, really!) and how Mathew followed the lead of the firms he’d worked for and checked with his state’s Supreme Court. Spoiler: neither approach was perfect, but they got the j...

Jan 09, 202526 min

Entity Formation: How to Run a Law Firm in 2025

Attorneys Lauren Lester and Mathew Kerbis kick off their joint series on How to Run a Law Firm in 2025! In a candid discussion about choosing business entities for law firms, they emphasize that while the entity choice is important, new lawyers shouldn’t let perfect be the enemy of good enough when starting out. They stress the importance of working with CPAs for tax matters, maintaining separate business and personal finances, and building up a financial cushion before taking regular payments f...

Jan 09, 202526 min

54: The 3 Tools I Use to Keep Clients Surprisingly Well-Informed

Your micro-episode for tested strategies that actually work in solo practice. Get proven solutions delivered straight to your inbox at ⁠adifferentpractice.com/subscribe⁠ . This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit adifferentpractice.substack.com/subscribe...

Jan 03, 20253 min
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