The 80/20 Principle

Email isn’t dead—it’s dominating. In this episode, email marketing expert Tyler Cook explains why email remains the highest ROI marketing channel for lawyers (and just about everyone else). You'll learn: Why email still outperforms social media by a mile What kind of emails people actually want to read The 3 automations every lawyer should set up—no exceptions How to use AI to write powerful emails fast (without sounding robotic) The truth about open rates, sender reputation, and avoiding spam filters Whether you're brand new to email marketing or ready to take your list to the next level, this episode gives you a clear roadmap—and some surprising tactics most lawyers miss. Plus: Tyler shares his favorite pro-level deliverability tips, and how even a tiny list can bring in big results when used the right way. Resource Links Tyler Cook: LinkedIn profile Tyler Cook: Hypermedia website Tyler Cook: newsletter about email marketing Rand Fiskin (SEO expert) Perry Marshall (author of 80/20 Marketing book) Neverbounce (email verification) Beehiiv (email platform for newsletters) Hubspot (CRM and email sending platform) Dean Jackson (email marketing guru) Hoppy Copy (helps write good emails) Jarvis (AI-powered marketing copy) Copy.ai (marketing copy assistant) Google Alerts (get automatically notified of important news) ChatGPT Lab (a weekly AI workshop for lawyers) Apply to join the ChatGPT Lab The 80/20 Principle (my techlaw newsletter) The Inner Circle (my online community for lawyers) Follow and Review: I’d love for you to follow me if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. I’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Thanks to the sponsor: Smith.ai Smith.ai is an amazing virtual receptionist service that specializes in working with solo and small law firms. When you hire Smith.ai, you’re hiring well-trained, friendly receptionists who can respond to callers in English or Spanish. And they have a special offer for podcast listeners where you can get an extra $100 discount with promo code ERNIE100. Sign up for a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee now (and learn more) at smith.ai.  

Law firms love their SOPs—binders full of screenshots, arrows, and step-by-step instructions. But here’s the problem: they take months to build, cost thousands to produce, and go out of date the moment software updates. There’s a better way. In this episode, I break down how forward-thinking lawyers are replacing outdated SOPs with AI-powered prompt libraries that actually get work done. You’ll hear real examples, learn why prompts are more reliable than manuals, and see how this simple shift can save your firm hours every week. If your SOP binder feels more like dead weight than a useful tool, this episode will show you what to do instead. Episode Links ChatGPT Lab (a weekly AI workshop for lawyers) Apply to join the ChatGPT Lab The 80/20 Principle (my techlaw newsletter) The Inner Circle (my online community for lawyers) Follow and Review: I’d love for you to follow me if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. I’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Thanks to the sponsor: Smith.ai Smith.ai is an amazing virtual receptionist service that specializes in working with solo and small law firms. When you hire Smith.ai, you’re hiring well-trained, friendly receptionists who can respond to callers in English or Spanish. And they have a special offer for podcast listeners where you can get an extra $100 discount with promo code ERNIE100. Sign up for a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee now (and learn more) at smith.ai.  

AI is changing how people search for lawyers, and that means your website has to do more than just “look professional.” In this episode, Megan Hargroder (of Legends Legal Marketing) explains what works—and what doesn’t—when it comes to getting found online today.  Megan also shares a powerful new strategy for ranking ethically while building long-term trust with potential clients. Episode Links Legends Legal Marketing website Book a free strategy call with Megan ChatGPT Lab (a weekly AI workshop for lawyers) Apply to join the ChatGPT Lab The 80/20 Principle (my techlaw newsletter) The Inner Circle (my online community for lawyers) Follow and Review: I’d love for you to follow me if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. I’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Thanks to the sponsor: Smith.ai Smith.ai is an amazing virtual receptionist service that specializes in working with solo and small law firms. When you hire Smith.ai, you’re hiring well-trained, friendly receptionists who can respond to callers in English or Spanish. And they have a special offer for podcast listeners where you can get an extra $100 discount with promo code ERNIE100. Sign up for a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee now (and learn more) at smith.ai.  

When big news drops—whether it’s politics, celebrity scandal, or the launch of GPT-5—the internet spins into a frenzy of hot takes, half-truths, and hype. In this episode, we discuss the rollout of GPT-5 as a case study in how to filter out bad information, pace your learning, and make better decisions without getting sucked into the vortex. You’ll hear why intentionality matters more than speed, how to choose the right sources, and the simple habits that keep you focused on what’s real and useful. Resource Links ChatGPT Lab (a weekly AI workshop for lawyers) Apply to join the ChatGPT Lab The 80/20 Principle (my techlaw newsletter) The Inner Circle (my online community for lawyers) Follow and Review: I’d love for you to follow me if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. I’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Thanks to the sponsor: Smith.ai Smith.ai is an amazing virtual receptionist service that specializes in working with solo and small law firms. When you hire Smith.ai, you’re hiring well-trained, friendly receptionists who can respond to callers in English or Spanish. And they have a special offer for podcast listeners where you can get an extra $100 discount with promo code ERNIE100. Sign up for a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee now (and learn more) at smith.ai.  

As AI tools become more prevalent in law practice, how do we keep our client data secure? In this episode, we address the biggest risks lawyers face and how to navigate them without losing the benefits of tools like ChatGPT. You’ll hear the latest insights from a consensus group of 30 legal pros, including what paid AI tools to trust, how to enable privacy settings, and why redacting sensitive info (and getting client consent) is non-negotiable. Plus, a behind-the-scenes look at the ChatGPT Lab—your go-to hub for safe, effective AI use in law. General Resources OpenAI's FAQs on Memory Handling Carolyn Elefant's AI 'Teach-In' for Lawyers (get recordings here) Other Resources ChatGPT Lab (a weekly AI workshop for lawyers) Apply to join the ChatGPT Lab The 80/20 Principle (my techlaw newsletter) The 5 Pillars of a Tech-Powered Law Practice The Inner Circle (my online community for lawyers) Follow and Review: I’d love for you to follow me if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. I’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Thanks to the sponsor: Smith.ai Smith.ai is an amazing virtual receptionist service that specializes in working with solo and small law firms. When you hire Smith.ai, you’re hiring well-trained, friendly receptionists who can respond to callers in English or Spanish. And they have a special offer for podcast listeners where you can get an extra $100 discount with promo code ERNIE100. Sign up for a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee now (and learn more) at smith.ai.  

Too many lawyers focus only on digital marketing and overlook one of the most effective ways to reach clients: direct mail. In this episode, you'll hear from Wilson Zehr, the creator of ZairMail, about why direct mail remains effective and how his platform makes it as simple as sending an email. Wilson breaks down the costs, strategies, and formats that help lawyers connect with their ideal clients through the mailbox. General Resources Zair Mail Wilson Zehr's LinkedIn Profile Other Resources ChatGPT Lab (a weekly AI workshop for lawyers) Apply to join the ChatGPT Lab  The 80/20 Principle (my techlaw newsletter) The 5 Pillars of a Tech-Powered Law Practice The Inner Circle (my online community for lawyers) Follow and Review: I’d love for you to follow me if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. I’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Thanks to the sponsor: Smith.ai Smith.ai is an amazing virtual receptionist service that specializes in working with solo and small law firms. When you hire Smith.ai, you’re hiring well-trained, friendly receptionists who can respond to callers in English or Spanish. And they have a special offer for podcast listeners where you can get an extra $100 discount with promo code ERNIE100. Sign up for a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee now (and learn more) at smith.ai.  

How can a solo personal injury lawyer run a leaner, more profitable practice without sacrificing client service? Lee Rudin, a New Orleans-based attorney, shares the tech stack and outsourcing strategies that help him do exactly that. In this episode, you'll discover: The tools Lee swears by—like Text Expander, Demands AI, and File Vine—and how they save him hours every week How virtual assistants fit into his system and boost efficiency His approach to marketing with short-form video and social media to attract ideal clients Whether you're drowning in admin work or looking to future-proof your firm, Lee’s approach offers a real-world blueprint for using tech to scale smartly. General Resources Lee's Website: https://getrude.com Lee's Phone #: 833-GET-RUDE (toll-free number) Follow @GetRudeLaw on: Instagram, TikTok, YouTube Other Resources ChatGPT Lab (learn about this weekly workshop) Apply to join the ChatGPT Lab (get the most out of your subscription) The 80/20 Principle (my techlaw newsletter) The 5 Pillars of a Tech-Powered Law Practice The Inner Circle (my online community for lawyers) Follow and Review: I’d love for you to follow me if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. I’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Thanks to the sponsor: Smith.ai Smith.ai is an amazing virtual receptionist service that specializes in working with solo and small law firms. When you hire Smith.ai, you’re hiring well-trained, friendly receptionists who can respond to callers in English or Spanish. And they have a special offer for podcast listeners where you can get an extra $100 discount with promo code ERNIE100. Sign up for a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee now (and learn more) at smith.ai.  

The best way for lawyers to master AI is to deep on just one tool: ChatGPT. In this episode, you’ll learn practical tips for using it in your practice, why the paid version is worth it, and how to get the most out of it. You’ll also learn about the new ChatGPT Lab, a hands-on training program to help solo/small firm lawyers who want weekly guidance on using AI in their practice. General Resources Sign up for ChatGPT (get the $20/month version for maximum utiliity) ChatGPT Lab (learn about the weekly coaching program) Apply to join the ChatGPT Lab (get the most out your subscription) Other Resources The 80/20 Principle (my techlaw newsletter) The 5 Pillars of a Tech-Powered Law Practice The Inner Circle (my online community for lawyers) Follow and Review: I’d love for you to follow me if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. I’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Thanks to the sponsor: Smith.ai Smith.ai is an amazing virtual receptionist service that specializes in working with solo and small law firms. When you hire Smith.ai, you’re hiring well-trained, friendly receptionists who can respond to callers in English or Spanish. And they have a special offer for podcast listeners where you can get an extra $100 discount with promo code ERNIE100. Sign up for a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee now (and learn more) at smith.ai.  

Wisper Flow is a no-fuss AI-powered dictation tool that helps you put words into documents or emails three times faster than typing. Because it's powered by AI, it can pick up your style and get better over time. Also, it works fabulously with apps like ChatGPT and Perplexity. In this episode, you'll learn exactly how it can streamline your workflows and free your mind for higher-level work. Resource links Wisper Flow (special discount link) Other Resources The 80/20 Principle (my techlaw newsletter) The 5 Pillars of a Tech-Powered Law Practice The Inner Circle (my online community for lawyers) Follow and Review: I’d love for you to follow me if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. I’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Thanks to the sponsor: Smith.ai Smith.ai is an amazing virtual receptionist service that specializes in working with solo and small law firms. When you hire Smith.ai, you’re hiring well-trained, friendly receptionists who can respond to callers in English or Spanish. And they have a special offer for podcast listeners where you can get an extra $100 discount with promo code ERNIE100. Sign up for a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee now (and learn more) at smith.ai.  

Discover how legal research giants like LexisNexis and Westlaw are being disrupted by low cost AI tools like ChatGPT. Smart solo lawyers are ignoring overpriced AI tools favored by BigLaw in favor of cheaper, more innovative options. Listen to find out which AI-powered legal research options that deliver speed, savings, and simplicity without bloated price tags. Resources from this Episode Carolyn Elefant's LinkedIn Post  ChatGPT  Google NotebookLM  Midpage  Westlaw  LexisNexis CoCounsel (Thomson Reuters / Casetext AI assistant) Fastcase Vincent AI (Fastcase’s AI research tool) Clearbrief Microsoft 365 Copilot Other Resources The 80/20 Principle (my techlaw newsletter) The 5 Pillars of a Tech-Powered Law Practice The Inner Circle (my online community for lawyers)   Follow and Review: I’d love for you to follow me if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. I’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Thanks to the sponsor: Smith.ai Smith.ai is an amazing virtual receptionist service that specializes in working with solo and small law firms. When you hire Smith.ai, you’re hiring well-trained, friendly receptionists who can respond to callers in English or Spanish. And they have a special offer for podcast listeners where you can get an extra $100 discount with promo code ERNIE100. Sign up for a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee now (and learn more) at smith.ai.

In a world where we rely on digital tools to remember things, the ancient art of memory training seems to have been forgotten. Which is a shame because memory training provides many advantages—especially for lawyers who need to retain vast amounts of information. In this episode, memory expert Anthony Metivier explains how to develop extraordinary recall using personalized techniques that make memorizing more engaging and effective.  If you’ve ever wanted a sharper memory and a stronger mind, you’ll relish what you'll learn in this episode. In this episode, you will hear: Learn about memory palaces and association strategies for organizing and recalling complex information. Discover real-world applications of memory mastery, especially in professions like law, for better persuasion and connection. Personalization of memory techniques for effective long-term retention and practical everyday use. Embrace the transformative power of memory training for personal growth and cognitive enhancement. Resources from this Episode About Anthony Metivier Magnetic Memory Course by Anthony Metivier Anthony's podcast:  Magnetic Memory Method My blog post on How to Improve Memory Using Proven Techniques General Resources Click for a list of the Best Tech Tools for Lawyers Subscribe to: The 80/20 Principle Check out my Law Firm Systems Intensive Join: '80/20 Inner Circle' (valuable business insights for small firm owners) Read: The 80/20 Principle: The Secret of Achieving More with Less, by Richard Koch Get my new email course: ChatGPT for Lawyers (it's free) Other Resources The 80/20 Principle (email newsletter) The 5 Pillars of a Tech-Powered Law Practice The Inner Circle (online community for law firm owners) Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Thanks to My Sponsor Smith.ai Smith.ai is an amazing virtual receptionist service that specializes in working with solo and small law firms. When you hire Smith.ai, you’re hiring well-trained, friendly receptionists who can respond to callers in English or Spanish. If there’s one great outsourcing opportunity for your practice, this is it. Let Smith.ai have your back while you stay focused on your work, knowing that your clients and prospects are being taken care of. Plans start at $210/month for 30 calls, and pricing starts at $140 for 20 chats, with overage at $7 per chat. They offer a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee on all receptionist and live chat plans, including add-ons (up to $1000). And they have a special offer for podcast listeners where you can get an extra $100 discount with promo code ERNIE100. Sign up for a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee now (and learn more) at smith.ai. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.  

Mathew Kerbis transitioned his billable hour practice to one that uses subscription pricing exclusively. Find out how he did this, and how subscription pricing works for transactional lawyers. Also discover how AI is making it work even better. In this episode, you will hear: Transitioning from billable hours to subscription-based legal services Integration of AI tools to enhance legal workflows and client satisfaction Flexible pricing strategies and maintaining low operating expenses Insights from other entrepreneurs on technology-driven innovation Benefits of project-based tracking over traditional time tracking Resources from this Episode Mathew's website: The Subscription Attorney Mathew's podcast: Law Subscribed Mathew's LinkedIn Profile Paxton.ai - Service Mathew uses and recommends Google Notebook LM Plus - Service Mathew uses and recommends Perplexity Pro - Service Mathew uses and recommends General Resources Click for a list of the Best Tech Tools for Lawyers Subscribe to: The 80/20 Principle Check out my Law Firm Systems Intensive Join: '80/20 Inner Circle' (valuable business insights for small firm owners) Read: The 80/20 Principle: The Secret of Achieving More with Less, by Richard Koch Get my new email course: ChatGPT for Lawyers (it's free) Other Resources The 80/20 Principle (email newsletter) The 5 Pillars of a Tech-Powered Law Practice The Inner Circle (online community for law firm owners) Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Thanks to My Sponsor Smith.ai Smith.ai is an amazing virtual receptionist service that specializes in working with solo and small law firms. When you hire Smith.ai, you’re hiring well-trained, friendly receptionists who can respond to callers in English or Spanish. If there’s one great outsourcing opportunity for your practice, this is it. Let Smith.ai have your back while you stay focused on your work, knowing that your clients and prospects are being taken care of. Plans start at $210/month for 30 calls, and pricing starts at $140 for 20 chats, with overage at $7 per chat. They offer a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee on all receptionist and live chat plans, including add-ons (up to $1000). And they have a special offer for podcast listeners where you can get an extra $100 discount with promo code ERNIE100. Sign up for a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee now (and learn more) at smith.ai. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.  

In this episode you'll meet an attorney named Ilona Anderson who was originally from Russia but came to the U.S. when she was sixteen and pursued her passion for law. You'll learn about her first job working in a big Miami firm, where she handled commercial litigation cases. We discuss the importance of using systems and her interesting take on what good systems look like in a law practice. We talked about the best tools to store SOPs, and why she's exploring the use of a popular tool called Notion (and why I recommended she think that decision through carefully). In this episode, you will hear: Ilona Anderson's journey from Russian immigrant to successful Miami attorney and entrepreneur Founding her own employment law practice after facing career challenges and denied flexible work arrangements Importance of systematization and delegation in law practice management Embracing technology and automation tools like MyCase, GoHighLevel, and AI to enhance legal practice Transition from litigation to trademark law to support entrepreneurs Radical responsibility and mindset shifts for personal and professional growth Resources from this Episode Ilona's firm website Ilona's LinkedIn profile Ilona's Substack newsletter Anthony Metivier's free memory training course General Resources Click for a list of the Best Tech Tools for Lawyers Subscribe to: The 80/20 Principle Check out my Law Firm Systems Intensive Join: '80/20 Inner Circle' (valuable business insights for small firm owners) Read: The 80/20 Principle: The Secret of Achieving More with Less, by Richard Koch Get my new email course: ChatGPT for Lawyers (it's free) General Resources Other Resources The 80/20 Principle (email newsletter) The 5 Pillars of a Tech-Powered Law Practice The Inner Circle (online community for law firm owners) Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Thanks to My Sponsor Smith.ai Smith.ai is an amazing virtual receptionist service that specializes in working with solo and small law firms. When you hire Smith.ai, you’re hiring well-trained, friendly receptionists who can respond to callers in English or Spanish. If there’s one great outsourcing opportunity for your practice, this is it. Let Smith.ai have your back while you stay focused on your work, knowing that your clients and prospects are being taken care of. Plans start at $210/month for 30 calls, and pricing starts at $140 for 20 chats, with overage at $7 per chat. They offer a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee on all receptionist and live chat plans, including add-ons (up to $1000). And they have a special offer for podcast listeners where you can get an extra $100 discount with promo code ERNIE100. Sign up for a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee now (and learn more) at smith.ai. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.  

In this episode, you'll learn that you have a photographic memory without knowing it. Just like Baton Rouge attorney Tony Clayton who can remember names and faces instantly, which helps him recall details about jury pool members, even groups of 50 to 75 people. By the end of the episode, you'll understand how to unlock this skill to remember anything you want to and you'll be completely astonished. In this episode, you will hear: Unlocking the potential of photographic memory through accessible techniques. Exploring the historical and modern relevance of the loci system, dating back to Simonides of Ceos. Using mnemonic devices and bizarre visual imagery to enhance memorization and retention. The transformative impact of memory mastery on personal and professional growth. Practical applications of memory techniques, including memorizing numbers and historical figures. Resources from this Episode Moonwalking with Einstein, Joshua Foer Deep Work, Cal Newport The Memory Book, Harry Lorayne & Jerry Lucas General Resources Click for a list of the Best Tech Tools for Lawyers Subscribe to: The 80/20 Principle Check out my Law Firm Systems Intensive Join: '80/20 Inner Circle' (valuable business insights for small firm owners) Read: The 80/20 Principle: The Secret of Achieving More with Less, by Richard Koch Get my new email course: ChatGPT for Lawyers (it's free)

Nancy Jeng, co-founder of Billables.ai, reveals how passive time-keeping is changing the game for lawyers—capturing billable hours with zero effort and tailoring entries to your style. Learn how this AI-powered tool integrates seamlessly with Clio, Microsoft, and more, while offering surprising benefits even for lawyers who don’t bill for their time.  In this episode, you will hear: The transformative power of AI in legal timekeeping and billing Seamless integration of Billables AI with platforms like Clio, Microsoft, and Google Automation of time capture processes for precise and efficient billing Overcoming challenges in legal time management with AI-driven tools Versatility of Billables AI for various billing models, including flat fee and contingency-based firms Emphasis on personalization and adapting to individual user preferences in billing practices Resources from this Episode Billables.ai website 1-Minute Video Demo of Billables.ai (YouTube) 2-Minute video from Nancy's demo to my Inner Circle Nancy's email address: nancy@billables.ai By the way, you’re eligible for a 50% discount for the first three months of Billables if you mention you came from my podcast. General Resources Click for a list of the Best Tech Tools for Lawyers Subscribe to: The 80/20 Principle Check out my Law Firm Systems Intensive Join: '80/20 Inner Circle' (valuable business insights for small firm owners) Read: The 80/20 Principle: The Secret of Achieving More with Less, by Richard Koch Get my new email course: ChatGPT for Lawyers (it's free) Other Resources The 80/20 Principle (email newsletter) The 5 Pillars of a Tech-Powered Law Practice The Inner Circle (online community for law firm owners) Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Thanks to My Sponsor Smith.ai Smith.ai is an amazing virtual receptionist service that specializes in working with solo and small law firms. When you hire Smith.ai, you’re hiring well-trained, friendly receptionists who can respond to callers in English or Spanish. If there’s one great outsourcing opportunity for your practice, this is it. Let Smith.ai have your back while you stay focused on your work, knowing that your clients and prospects are being taken care of. Plans start at $210/month for 30 calls, and pricing starts at $140 for 20 chats, with overage at $7 per chat. They offer a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee on all receptionist and live chat plans, including add-ons (up to $1000). And they have a special offer for podcast listeners where you can get an extra $100 discount with promo code ERNIE100. Sign up for a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee now (and learn more) at smith.ai. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.  

Want to harness the power of AI while at the same time minimize risk? Then learn to balance critical and creative thinking as you use AI in your law practice. Listen and get concrete recommendations for making this happen now. In this episode, you will hear: Exploring AI's role in enhancing legal practice for solo and small firm lawyers Balancing critical and creative thinking in law with AI tools Practical steps for integrating AI, starting with low-risk tasks Importance of collaborative learning and peer insights in AI adoption Embracing AI's potential despite its flaws and imperfections Resources from this Episode Inner Circle membership link Loom video of How to use a Custom GPT to improve Writing General Resources Click for a list of the Best Tech Tools for Lawyers Subscribe to: The 80/20 Principle Check out my Law Firm Systems Intensive Join: '80/20 Inner Circle' (valuable business insights for small firm owners) Read: The 80/20 Principle: The Secret of Achieving More with Less, by Richard Koch Get my new email course: ChatGPT for Lawyers (it's free) Other Resources The 80/20 Principle (email newsletter) The 5 Pillars of a Tech-Powered Law Practice The Inner Circle (online community for law firm owners) Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Thanks to My Sponsor Smith.ai Smith.ai is an amazing virtual receptionist service that specializes in working with solo and small law firms. When you hire Smith.ai, you’re hiring well-trained, friendly receptionists who can respond to callers in English or Spanish. If there’s one great outsourcing opportunity for your practice, this is it. Let Smith.ai have your back while you stay focused on your work, knowing that your clients and prospects are being taken care of. Plans start at $210/month for 30 calls, and pricing starts at $140 for 20 chats, with overage at $7 per chat. They offer a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee on all receptionist and live chat plans, including add-ons (up to $1000). And they have a special offer for podcast listeners where you can get an extra $100 discount with promo code ERNIE100. Sign up for a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee now (and learn more) at smith.ai. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.  

How can solo attorneys harness AI to stay sharp and competitive? This episode dives into Microsoft’s new report on AI and how it will impact legal research, document review, and client service. Listen and get practical tips and strategies for leveraging AI in 2025—boosting productivity, streamlining work, and sharpening your edge.  In this episode, you will hear: Embracing AI to enhance productivity and client engagement for solo and small firm lawyers Insights from Microsoft's New Future of Work Report on AI integration in legal practices The concept of microproductivity and breaking tasks into manageable parts with AI Addressing concerns about AI diminishing human intelligence and highlighting collaboration benefits AI's role in contract drafting, client communication, and engagement through chatbots Increasing accessibility and affordability of AI tools for solo practitioners AI's potential to contribute to a more equitable legal system and bridge the justice gap Resources from this Episode Microsoft recent report on The Future of Work NotebookLM (Google's tool for generating realistic discussions between AI bots) General Resources Click for a list of the Best Tech Tools for Lawyers Subscribe to: The 80/20 Principle Check out my Law Firm Systems Intensive Join: '80/20 Inner Circle' (valuable business insights for small firm owners) Read: The 80/20 Principle: The Secret of Achieving More with Less, by Richard Koch Get my new email course: ChatGPT for Lawyers (it's free) Other Resources The 80/20 Principle (email newsletter) The 5 Pillars of a Tech-Powered Law Practice The Inner Circle (online community for law firm owners) Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Thanks to My Sponsor Smith.ai Smith.ai is an amazing virtual receptionist service that specializes in working with solo and small law firms. When you hire Smith.ai, you’re hiring well-trained, friendly receptionists who can respond to callers in English or Spanish. If there’s one great outsourcing opportunity for your practice, this is it. Let Smith.ai have your back while you stay focused on your work, knowing that your clients and prospects are being taken care of. Plans start at $210/month for 30 calls, and pricing starts at $140 for 20 chats, with overage at $7 per chat. They offer a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee on all receptionist and live chat plans, including add-ons (up to $1000). And they have a special offer for podcast listeners where you can get an extra $100 discount with promo code ERNIE100. Sign up for a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee now (and learn more) at smith.ai. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.  

Oxford philosophy professor Jonny Thomson explains how philosophy sharpens critical thinking, reveals hidden biases, and helps uncover the truth in a messy, complex world. From the Socratic method to the role of testimony and the challenges posed by AI, this episode dives into the intersection of philosophy, psychology, and the modern search for knowledge. A must-listen for lawyers and anyone who values sharper thinking. In this episode, you will hear: Exploration of the intersection between philosophy and artificial intelligence Johnny Thomson's transition from educator to full-time writer and his book "Mini-Philosophy" The role of the Socratic method in philosophy and law Discussion of Meno's Paradox and the debate between rationalism and empiricism Examination of the reliability of knowledge and the importance of reliable sources Contemplation of artificial intelligence's ability to replicate human intelligence Resources from this Episode Jonny's Website  Jonny on Instagram  Jonny on TikTok  Jonny's Big Think articles  Jonny's LinkedIn profile Mini Philosophy, book by Jonny Thomson Mini Big Ideas, book by Jonny Thomson Mini Psychology, book by Jonny Thomson General Resources Click for a list of the Best Tech Tools for Lawyers Subscribe to: The 80/20 Principle Check out my Law Firm Systems Intensive Join: '80/20 Inner Circle' (valuable business insights for small firm owners) Read: The 80/20 Principle: The Secret of Achieving More with Less, by Richard Koch Get my new email course: ChatGPT for Lawyers (it's free) Other Resources The 80/20 Principle (email newsletter) The 5 Pillars of a Tech-Powered Law Practice The Inner Circle (online community for law firm owners) Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Thanks to My Sponsor Smith.ai Smith.ai is an amazing virtual receptionist service that specializes in working with solo and small law firms. When you hire Smith.ai, you’re hiring well-trained, friendly receptionists who can respond to callers in English or Spanish. If there’s one great outsourcing opportunity for your practice, this is it. Let Smith.ai have your back while you stay focused on your work, knowing that your clients and prospects are being taken care of. Plans start at $210/month for 30 calls, and pricing starts at $140 for 20 chats, with overage at $7 per chat. They offer a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee on all receptionist and live chat plans, including add-ons (up to $1000). And they have a special offer for podcast listeners where you can get an extra $100 discount with promo code ERNIE100. Sign up for a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee now (and learn more) at smith.ai. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.  

In this episode, you'll hear from Jeff Austin, an estate planning attorney from Durham, North Carolina, who spent a year practicing law remotely while living in Argentina with his family. Jeff will explain how he transitioned to a paperless, remote practice, tackling challenges like how to notarize documents remotely, how to manage client communication, and how to handle physical mail. In this episode, you will hear: Jeff Austin's transition to a remote, paperless law practice while living in Argentina. Innovative solutions for remote notarization and client communication. Maintaining ethical standards as a North Carolina attorney practicing abroad. Practical strategies for building a credible online presence and client trust. The importance of technological tools like eSIM cards and virtual mail services. Adaptability and resourcefulness in international living and remote work. Resources from this Episode MyCase - Practice management software that Jeff used Traveling Mailbox - A physical mailbox service that scans and manages mail.  One Notary - Remote notarization service BestNotary - Concierge estate planning service that provides notary and witness services. Amazon Kindle - E-reader for reading work-related materials Next Stand - Portable laptop stand for ergonomic use. General Resources Click for a list of the Best Tech Tools for Lawyers Subscribe to: The 80/20 Principle Check out my Law Firm Systems Intensive Join: '80/20 Inner Circle' (valuable business insights for small firm owners) Read: The 80/20 Principle: The Secret of Achieving More with Less, by Richard Koch Get my new email course: ChatGPT for Lawyers (it's free) Other Resources The 80/20 Principle (email newsletter) The 5 Pillars of a Tech-Powered Law Practice The Inner Circle (online community for law firm owners) Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Thanks to My Sponsor Smith.ai Smith.ai is an amazing virtual receptionist service that specializes in working with solo and small law firms. When you hire Smith.ai, you’re hiring well-trained, friendly receptionists who can respond to callers in English or Spanish. If there’s one great outsourcing opportunity for your practice, this is it. Let Smith.ai have your back while you stay focused on your work, knowing that your clients and prospects are being taken care of. Plans start at $210/month for 30 calls, and pricing starts at $140 for 20 chats, with overage at $7 per chat. They offer a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee on all receptionist and live chat plans, including add-ons (up to $1000). And they have a special offer for podcast listeners where you can get an extra $100 discount with promo code ERNIE100. Sign up for a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee now (and learn more) at smith.ai. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.  

You should optimize your appearance in online meetings and presentations to appear professional, credible and authoritative. You don't need to do a lot to make that happen, and in this episode you'll find out how with tips for best cameras, mics, backgrounds, plus simple, practical tips for being a good host and attendee. Topics covered: Why Your Zoom Appearance Matters The "Zoom Economy": Investing in On-Screen Appearance DIY Tips for a Professional Look Creating the Perfect Background Lighting and Makeup Tips Upgrading Your Webcam and Microphone Best Practices for Zoom Attendees Hosting Effective Zoom Meetings Conclusion and Additional Resources Resources from this Episode On Screen Authority training (free) Dream Studio  (the $8,000 studio) The Hustle article on Zoom trends Instructions for how to upload a custom background to Zoom Canva (for designing the custom background) Amazon soft light options ATR mic I use and recommend General Resources Click for a list of the Best Tech Tools for Lawyers Subscribe to: The 80/20 Principle Check out my Law Firm Systems Intensive Join: '80/20 Inner Circle' (valuable business insights for small firm owners) Read: The 80/20 Principle: The Secret of Achieving More with Less, by Richard Koch Get my new email course: ChatGPT for Lawyers (it's free) Other Resources The 80/20 Principle (email newsletter) The 5 Pillars of a Tech-Powered Law Practice The Inner Circle (online community for law firm owners) Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Thanks to My Sponsor Smith.ai Smith.ai is an amazing virtual receptionist service that specializes in working with solo and small law firms. When you hire Smith.ai, you’re hiring well-trained, friendly receptionists who can respond to callers in English or Spanish. If there’s one great outsourcing opportunity for your practice, this is it. Let Smith.ai have your back while you stay focused on your work, knowing that your clients and prospects are being taken care of. Plans start at $210/month for 30 calls, and pricing starts at $140 for 20 chats, with overage at $7 per chat. They offer a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee on all receptionist and live chat plans, including add-ons (up to $1000). And they have a special offer for podcast listeners where you can get an extra $100 discount with promo code ERNIE100. Sign up for a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee now (and learn more) at smith.ai. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.