Lma Podcast

Marketing and business development professionals hold keys to one of the hottest currencies in law firm PR: information. In this episode of the LMA Podcast, Axis Marketing Strategies' Matt Plavnick, Boies Schiller Flexner's Robin Davidson and Blattel Communications' Traci Stuart discuss how to mine and invest in information, highlighting how access to firm planning and data, lawyer and practice group insights, and the anticipated initiatives of marketing and business development colleagues are critical to good PR planning and activity. Tune for a conversation that covers: • Natural inflection points that can help break down information silos. • Information triggers: good questions for extracting PR gold. • What to listen for in conversations with lawyers. • PR and other marketing and business professionals’ valuable role as connectors in the law firm ecosystem.

What if the routines that support personal wellness could also strengthen client relationships? Sarita Aguirre, a registered dietitian at Rising Nutrition, and Blair Whitman, vice president of client success at Homethrive Inc., explore practical parallels between managing your habits, time and energy — and delivering consistent, meaningful value to clients.  Through themes including habit stacking, energy management and aligned routines, this episode of the LMA Podcast offers actionable ways to foster relationship-building and adding client value into daily workflows. Tune in for simple, sustainable ideas that improve follow-through and drive long-term client value — without relying on last-minute efforts.

Landing a lateral hire is just the beginning. The real impact comes from how you tell the story. Join LMA PR & Communications SIG Co-Chair Corrina Wright of Benesch, Society 54 Managing Director Katy von Treskow and Brownstein Director of Communications Susan Erlenborn for a session breaking down proven strategies for turning attorney arrivals into compelling moments that strengthen your firm’s brand, attract attention from key audiences and build momentum across media, web and social channels. Whether you’re managing PR solo or collaborating with a larger communications team, you’ll walk away with actionable tips to help every announcement make a splash. The LMA Podcast focuses on hot topics in legal marketing and business development with conversations driven by industry professionals. Listen on SoundCloud, or find us and subscribe on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

Storytelling and feedback have become essential differentiators for lawyers navigating an increasingly competitive legal market. In the latest episode of the LMA Podcast, Julie Chodos sits down with Anne marie Houghtailing to discuss how intentional communication shapes the business of law — from winning work and elevating client relationships to developing talent and building healthier firm cultures. Tune in to learn: - How storytelling strengthens business development, differentiates attorneys in crowded markets, and helps firms move beyond information‑heavy pitches. - Why consistent, real‑time feedback is a business imperative, impacting productivity, talent development, and the client experience. - Where firms lose money and momentum when communication breaks down — and how to correct it. - The myths that hold lawyers back from giving and receiving the information needed to grow. - Practical ways to integrate storytelling and feedback into pitches, training, team leadership, and day‑to‑day client servic

What can 40 years of legal marketing tell us about the future of the profession? In this special episode of the LMA Podcast, Ashley Stenger, LMA CEO, sits down with John Byrne, 2025 LMA president, and Rachel Shields Williams, 2026 LMA president, to celebrate LMA’s 40th anniversary and explore what’s next for the field of legal marketing and business development. Tune in to learn: • How legal marketers have evolved from the early days of developing brochures to establishing themselves as data-driven, strategic partners inside law firms. • Why hyper-targeted client experiences and measurable outcomes are replacing one-size-fits-all approaches. • The real impact of AI on legal marketing, and why human judgment, empathy and storytelling remain irreplaceable. • What the next 40 years could bring: new roles, deeper collaboration and a more diverse, client-centric industry. • How LMA will help members lead change, not just adapt to it, through technology and professional development initiatives. Forty years in, and

Ever wondered what it’s really like to be on the receiving end of your pitches? In this episode of the LMA Podcast, Traci Stuart sits down with Katherine Hollar Barnard and Elizabeth Lampert to take listeners behind the scenes of legal media and hear directly from the experts shaping the headlines. In this discussion, they’ll unpack fresh survey data revealing: • The biggest pain points reporters face when working with law firms, from generic pitches to slow response times. • What makes a spokesperson stand out — and why credibility, candor and clarity matter more than canned soundbites. • The types of legal stories journalists want — and don’t want — including why trend insights often beat deal announcements. • The most effective ways to get noticed (hint: less is more), and why relationships still matter in a digital-first world. • How media expectations are shifting in the age of AI, rapid news cycles and shrinking newsrooms. Whether you’re pitching a high-stakes case, firm news or thought leadership,

In this episode of the LMA Podcast, business development growth coach and strategist Deb Feder moderates a panel with Chantal Williams and Joy Sperling, exploring the underestimated role of small talk in professional growth and relationship-building. From favorite TV shows to brisket recipes, the panelists illustrate how everyday banter can lead to lasting business opportunities. Whether you're a natural conversationalist or a recovering small talk skeptic, this episode shows how small talk can be the spark that builds trust, deepens rapport and opens unexpected doors. Speakers: Deb Feder, Founder and CEO, Feder Development Joy Sperling, Retired Law Partner, Day Pitney Chantal Williams, BD and Marketing Senior Manager, White & Case

Join host Natalia Villanueva and digital marketing expert Amanda Sexton for a focused discussion on how generative AI is transforming SEO and content strategy in the legal industry. From the pitfalls of AI-generated content to the power of storytelling and performance metrics that matter, this episode equips legal marketers with practical ways to stay visible and credible in a rapidly changing digital environment. Speakers: Amanda Sexton, Founder and Principal, FocusWorks Marketing Natalia Villanueva, Partner, KermaPartners | UpWyse Series Description: The LMA Podcast focuses on hot topics in legal marketing and business development with conversations driven by industry professionals.

What strategies can legal marketers use to coach attorneys to adopt a client-centric mindset and offer actionable advice that nurtures long-term relationships? During this episode of the LMA Podcast, our guests dive into effective techniques for business development coaching both new and skeptical attorneys, while sharing their personal experiences and the lessons they've learned along the way. They’ll discuss how they integrate key business development trust points into their daily routines, enhancing their ability to guide lawyers towards successful business development practices. Tune in to learn how these strategies can be implemented to transform the attorney-client relationship and drive sustained growth. Speakers: Jennifer Ramsey, Co-founder and Principal, Stage LLC Megan Senese, Co-founder and Principal, Stage LLC Shannon Tatro, Associate Director of Business Development, Munger, Tolles & Olson Megan Senese is co-founder and principal of Stage LLC. After six years of working with Jennifer Ramsey, th

Join PR SIG Co-Chair Corrina Wright, director of marketing communications at Benesch, for an interview that explores the evolution of legal public relations with Ross Fishman of Fishman Marketing and Michelle Calcote King of Reputation Ink. In addition to exploring how we got here, the trio will take a look at the latest best practices for maximizing your firm’s communications investment. Speakers: Ross Fishman, CEO, Fishman Marketing Michelle Calcote King, President, Reputation Ink Corrina Wright, Director of Marketing Communications, Bensch Series Description: The LMA Podcast focuses on hot topics in legal marketing and business development with conversations driven by industry professionals.

How can the legal industry benefit from the "star reporter" talent model? In this episode of the LMA Podcast, guests explore how actionable insights, exclusivity and access can elevate legal content. They also discuss the power of multi-platform storytelling — especially on LinkedIn — and why consistency and strategy are key. Whether you're a seasoned content creator or just starting out, this conversation will inspire you to share your perspective and strengthen your digital presence. Speakers: Cheryl Bame, Principal, Bame Public Relations Brian Kiefer, Director of Public Relations, Taft Alexandra McCartha, Senior Communications Coordinator, Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner LLP Series Description: The LMA Podcast focuses on hot topics in legal marketing and business development with conversations driven by industry professionals.

This episode of the LMA Podcast features Ben Chiriboga (Nexl) and Jonathan Hawkins (LawFirm CG) as they discuss mergers and acquisitions, the importance of understanding cost structures and return on investment in business development, and the significance of client retention and marketing. Their conversation also highlights the market dynamics of law firms, particularly lateral movements and the influence of individual partners' books of business. Speakers: Ben Chiriboga, Chief Growth Officer, Nexl Jonathan Hawkins, Founder, LawFirm GC Series Description: The LMA Podcast focuses on hot topics in legal marketing and business development with conversations driven by industry professionals.

In the latest LMA Podcast episode, we explore the strategic nuances of managing communications during law firm mergers. The conversation covers pre-merger planning — offering insights into building a communications playbook, balancing confidentiality with transparency and ensuring cultural compatibility. Also covered is deal work activity, emphasizing the importance of clear internal messaging, effective external stakeholder communications and proactive media relations. Finally, guests address mid- and post-merger challenges, including leak management, rebranding strategies and maintaining client trust, while reflecting on lessons from past mergers and future industry trends. Speakers: Jamie Diaferia, CEO, Infinite Global Kenny Gary, Founding Partner, LIMELIGHT Ashley Horne, CMO, Womble Bond Dickinson Lisa Smith, Principal, Fairfax Associates Series Description: The LMA Podcast focuses on hot topics in legal marketing and business development with conversations driven by industry professionals.

In this episode of the LMA Podcast, guests Katherine Boyko and Arthur Uratani discuss the concepts of likability, storytelling and body language in professional settings to strengthen interpersonal and business relationships. This discussion aims to empower and inspire listeners to improve their professional interactions. Speakers: Katherine Boyko, Senior Marketing Coordinator, Whiteford Arthur Uratani, Director of Marketing and Outreach, Bookoff McAndrews Series Description: The LMA Podcast focuses on hot topics in legal marketing and business development with conversations driven by industry professionals.

In this episode, we explore the intense discussions surrounding Vice President Kamala Harris’ historic candidacy, focusing on the intersection of race, gender and the concept of "DEI hires." As the first woman of color nominated for president by a major party, Harris has become a flashpoint in debates about diversity, equity and inclusion. We dive into the vocal backlash, significant support and the broader implications these conversations have on our personal and professional lives. This episode unpacks how identity politics, meritocracy and DEI initiatives shape the evolving dynamics of leadership in America. Speakers: •Carman Akins, Director of Practice Marketing, DLA Piper US •Nadia Campbell, Sr. Business Development Manager, Reed Smith LLP •C. Dominica McGinnis, CEO and Executive Coach, BridgeField Group Series Description: The LMA Podcast focuses on hot topics in legal marketing and business development with conversations driven by industry professionals.

On this episode of the LMA podcast, our guests discuss the importance of cross-firm collaboration and its impact on client service. Their discussion emphasizes the need for understanding different roles and departments to work smarter and improve efficiency, while also highlighting the significance of effective internal partnerships, communication, and empathy in delivering the best client experience. Speakers: Rebecca Hnatowski, President, Edwards Advisory, LLC (Host) Sophie Curdts Mohrmann, Director of Attorney Development & Inclusion, Williams Mullen Debbie Leitner, Director of Practice Management, Katten Muchin Rosenman LLP Rachel Shields Williams, Director, Knowledge Management, Sidley Austin Series Description: The LMA Podcast focuses on hot topics in legal marketing and business development with conversations driven by industry professionals.

Professionals face a critical decision when contemplating a career move: how to align their choices with long-term goals, personal growth and organizational culture. The risk of mistiming a career change or choosing the wrong path can lead to significant challenges, making it essential to carefully assess both timing and firm culture before making a move. In this episode of the LMA Podcast, Julie Amos (Jackson Lewis) guides an engaging discussion between Ben Curle (Ambition) and Emily Flowers (Jenner & Block) about the importance of proactive strategies for positioning oneself for growth and success. Speakers: Julie Amos, Director of Pursuits and Client Development, Jackson Lewis Ben Curle, Associate Director, Ambition Emily Flowers, Director of Strategic and Communications, Jenner & Block Series Description: The LMA Podcast focuses on hot topics in legal marketing and business development with conversations driven by industry professionals.

In law firms, a positive culture is priceless. It fosters a sense of community and collaboration, and directly impacts the firm's ability to grow its business and retain top talent. When a law firm prioritizes culture, it becomes a magnet for diverse professionals, encourages innovation and ethical practices and impacts how clients are served. In partnership with the Practising Law Institute (PLI), this episode of the LMA Podcast shares how legal marketers and business development professionals can help drive the cultural changes necessary to impact the change needed to attract, retain and grow the talent they need to survive. Speakers: Deborah Farone, Founder and Marketing Strategy Consultant, Farone Advisors Allan Schoenberg, Chief Communications Officer, Vinson & Elkins Relevant Links: To optimize the learning experience, LMA Members are encouraged to log in to their member profile to take the PLI course "Law Firm Culture: How to Develop and Sustain One to Support Stellar Retention, Client Growth and Wo

Law firms and legal communicators grapple with a pressing challenge in today's landscape: adapting communication strategies to address the escalating political divisions in the country. The risk of messages intersecting with polarized politics is high, necessitating the crafting of robust and sensitive messages that maintain their impact. In the midst of a politically charged environment, more law firms find themselves compelled to speak out, placing communication managers in the crucial role of fostering cohesion amid turmoil when conveying firm news. This session aims to equip communicators with the tools to ensure that law firm messages transcend divisive lines and resonate with the broad coalition of your client audience. Practical examples will be provided to guide communicators through the navigation of messages in this challenging context. This podcast builds upon the learning from the PR SIG webinar The Dilemma of Law Firms: To Speak or Stay Silent? Speakers: Michelle Calcote King, Principal and Pres

In this episode of the LMA Podcast, attorney Kristin Gray (FordHarrison), joins LMA Editorial Committee member Hayley Lavin (Thompson Coburn) to share the creative process behind harnessing pop culture to capture audiences and showcase your firm’s expertise. Gray speaks from her experience as a contributor of FordHarrison's popular "That's What She Said" and "EntertainHR" blogs. Speakers: Kristin Gray, Attorney, FordHarrison Hayley Lavin, Business Development Coordinator, Thompson Coburn LLP Series Description: The LMA Podcast focuses on hot topics in legal marketing and business development with conversations driven by industry professionals.