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Personal Injury Mastermind
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Personal Injury Mastermind
Author: Chris Dreyer law firm marketing expert, Rankings.io
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© Rankings.io
Description
Elite personal injury attorneys and leading edge marketers give you exclusive access to growth strategies for your firm. Host Chris Dreyer of Rankings.io brings his expertise in legal marketing, honed through years of work with hundreds of law firms across the country. Being at the forefront of marketing is all about understanding, which is why PIM features marketing luminaries like Seth Godin and Neil Patel. Previous marketing guests also include Rand Fishkin, Chris Do, and John Ruhlin and previous elite personal injury attorney guests include John Gomez (Gomez Trial Attorneys), Joe Fried (Fried Goldberg), and Ed Herman (Brown & Crouppen), to name but a few.
314 Episodes
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Anthony Lopez transformed Your Insurance Attorney from a 70-person practice into a 275-employee powerhouse by making one pivotal decision: stepping away from the courtroom to focus entirely on law firm management.
In this episode of Personal Injury Mastermind (PIM), Lopez reveals how treating a law firm like a business unlocked unprecedented growth. His innovative approach to legal marketing sets him apart - while other firms outsource, he built an in-house team that monitors weather patterns to target property damage claims in real-time.
Master legal marketing strategies that drive law firm growth. Get Chris' latest book, Personal Injury Lawyer Marketing: From Good to GOAT.
Rather than following traditional law firm business development models, Lopez pioneered a different path. He trains lawyers from scratch instead of poaching talent, turns HR from a cost center into a revenue driver, and tracks case acquisition costs with scientific precision. His Salesforce dashboard measures every metric that matters, from settlement timelines to marketing ROI.
The debate between branding and direct response marketing takes center stage as Lopez shares how organic case flow proves brand building pays off. By tracking both marketing-driven and organic leads, he demonstrates why branding matters even when ROI is hard to measure.
We discuss:
The pivotal moment that changed his firm's trajectory
Why you can't excel as both a trial lawyer and CEO
How replacing himself in the courtroom accelerated growth
Building a C-suite that drives profitability
Tracking real-time metrics that matter for scaling
Converting overhead departments into revenue generators
Time Stamps
00:00 Intro
00:03 Building a Law Firm Like a Business
02:04 Law Firm Management: Turning Cost Centers into Revenue Drivers
03:33 In-House Legal Marketing Innovation: Real-Time Weather Targeting
07:37 Branding vs. Direct Acquisition in Law
08:01 Marketing Strategy: Balancing Brand Building vs Direct Response
12:17 Law Firm Business Development: Growing Your Own Talent Pipeline
15:49 Trial Expertise: Leveraging Board Certification for Growth
18:31 Property Damage Law: Building a Nationwide Practice
23:32 Entrepreneurial Journey: From Travel Business to Law Firm Empire
26:12 Law Firm Branding: Building Your Insurance Attorney
27:57 From Pilot to Success: The Value of Stepping BackManaging cash flow and acquisition costs at scale
Guest Details
Anthony Lopez is the founder of Your Insurance Attorney, handling first-party insurance claims nationwide with offices in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, Colorado, and California. His innovative approach to law firm management has helped build one of the fastest-growing insurance litigation practices in the country.
Anthony Lopez: LinkedIn
Your Insurance Attorney: Website, Instagram
Chris Dreyer and Rankings Details
Chris Dreyer is the CEO and founder of Rankings.io, the elite legal digital marketing agency.
Rankings: Website, Instagram, Twitter
Chris Dreyer: Website, Instagram
Newsletters: The Dreyer Sheet
Books: Personal Injury Lawyer Marketing: From Good to GOAT; Niching Up: The Narrower the Market, the Bigger the Prize
Work with Rankings: Connect
In an industry where firms fight over the same cases, Julian Gomez has carved out his blue ocean in auto product liability. Julian's method is surprisingly simple: specialize deeply, share knowledge freely, and let expertise create opportunities.
Dominate your market today. Grab a copy of Chris’ latest book, Personal Injury Lawyer Marketing: From Good to GOAT.
In this episode of Personal Injury Mastermind, discover how understanding which cases truly matter can transform your practice from local player to national authority.
We discuss:
How to become THE name in your blue ocean
The most common auto defects hiding in standard accident cases
Key product liability indicators that signal major settlement potential
A strategic framework for evaluating auto product cases
Building authority through relationship marketing over advertising
Creating work-life integration while handling complex litigation
Guest Details
Julian Gomez is a nationally recognized auto product liability attorney who pioneered litigation strategies in catastrophic defect cases. After clerking at the Fifth Circuit and working the first Ford Explorer Firestone case, he built a nationwide practice focused almost exclusively on auto product litigation.
Julian Gomez: LinkedIn
The Julian C. Gomez Law Firm: Website, Instagram
Chris Dreyer and Rankings Details
Chris Dreyer is the CEO and founder of Rankings.io, the elite legal digital marketing agency.
Rankings: Website, Instagram, Twitter
Chris Dreyer: Website, Instagram
Newsletters: The Dreyer Sheet
Books: Personal Injury Lawyer Marketing: From Good to GOAT; Niching Up: The Narrower the Market, the Bigger the Prize
Work with Rankings: Connect
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83. Seth Godin — Differentiation: How to Make Your Law Firm a Purple Cow
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Want to share the stage with personal injury law's biggest names? As PIMCON returns to Scottsdale this October, we're reserving one speaker spot for our community.
Will YOU be the next PIMCON Speaker? CLICK HERE TO APPLY
In this special PIMCON showcase, three industry leaders share strategies their firms have already implemented with remarkable results. Amanda Demanda reveals how narrowing her firm's focus led to bigger cases and an unforgettable brand. Bob Simon demonstrates why focusing only on what you love (and building the right team around you) creates unstoppable momentum. Dave Thomas shares how Law Tigers turned authentic community involvement into a marketing powerhouse, generating 35% of their cases through grassroots efforts across 33 states.
We discuss:
Implementing PIMCON insights in real firms
Transforming marketing from expense to asset
Building systems that scale without losing soul
Creating genuine community connections that drive revenue
Measuring and tracking unconventional marketing ROI
Guest Details
Amanda Demanda: The brand-building strategist redefining what's possible in PI
Bob Simon: Trial attorney turned referral network master
Dave Thomas: Community engagement pioneer behind Law Tigers' nationwide success
Chris Dreyer and Rankings Details
Chris Dreyer is the CEO and founder of Rankings.io, the elite legal digital marketing agency.
Rankings: Website, Instagram, Twitter
Chris Dreyer: Website, Instagram
Newsletters: The Dreyer Sheet
Books: Personal Injury Lawyer Marketing: From Good to GOAT; Niching Up: The Narrower the Market, the Bigger the Prize
Work with Rankings: Connect
Time Stamps
00:00 Intro
00:17 Call for Community Speakers
01:00 Amanda Demanda: From Big Tobacco to Building an Unforgettable PI Brand
01:33 Aligning With Your Target Audience
04:35 Making Your Message Pop
08:00 The Power of Bold Branding Choices
11:59 [Transition to Bob Simon]
12:03 Why Personal Relationships Beat VC-Backed Marketing
13:21 The Immigration Lawyer's Million-Dollar Referral Strategy
19:15 Building Your Referral Network
20:25 The Freedom of Focusing on What You Love
20:53 [Transition to Dave Thomas]
21:03 Stop Making Your Firm the Hero
22:14 The Law Tigers Community-First Approach
24:44 Real Community Leadership
26:06 Tracking What Matters
27:03 The Numbers Don't Lie: Grassroots Marketing Results
29:08 The Grassroots Marketing Pyramid
30:06 Closing Call for PIMCON Speakers
Additional Episodes You Might Enjoy
80. Mike Papantonio, Levin, Papantonio, & Rafferty — Doing Well by Doing Good
84. Glen Lerner, Lerner and Rowe – A Steady Hand in a Shifting Industry
101. Pratik Shah, EsquireTek — Discovering the Power of Automation
134. Darryl Isaacs, Isaacs & Isaacs — The Hammer: Insights from a Marketing Legend
104. Taly Goody, Goody Law Group — Finding PI Clients on TikTok
63. Joe Fried, Fried Goldberg LLC — How To Become An Expert And Revolutionize Your PI Niche
96. Brian Dean, Backlinko — Becoming a Linkable Source
83. Seth Godin — Differentiation: How to Make Your Law Firm a Purple Cow
73. Neil Patel, Neil Patel — Digital A New Approach to Content and Emerging Marketing Channels
Trucking litigation is one of the most sought-after practice areas in personal injury law. As the pioneer who helped establish board certification in truck accident law, Joe Fried reveals how he transformed a non-existent specialty into an elite practice area.
Dominate your market today. Grab a copy of Chris’ latest book, Personal Injury Lawyer Marketing: From Good to GOAT.
Before Joe Fried, trucking litigation wasn't a recognized specialty. There were no billboards, no dedicated attorneys, and no community of experts. In this episode of Personal Injury Mastermind, the father of trucking litigation shares how total commitment to mastery built an entirely new field of law. From establishing board certification to uncovering $150M policies others missed, Joe's journey shows how hyper-specialization can create unprecedented opportunities in personal injury law.
We discuss:
How Joe created and defined trucking litigation as a specialty
Why choosing between B2B and B2C marketing defines your practice trajectory
Critical evidence preservation tactics that separate experts from generalists
The future of trucking litigation: telematics, Amazon logistics, and emerging sub-specialties
Building a nationwide referral network by demonstrating genuine expertise
When to handle a trucking case yourself vs bringing in specialized counsel
Real examples of uncovering massive policies others missed
Guest Details
Joe Fried pioneered trucking litigation as a specialty practice area and co-founded the Academy of Truck Accident Attorneys. He helped establish the first-ever board certification in truck accident law approved by the American Bar Association and has handled cases in over 40 states.
Joe Fried: LinkedIn
Fried Goldberg: Website, LinkedIn
Chris Dreyer and Rankings Details
Chris Dreyer is the CEO and founder of Rankings.io, the elite legal digital marketing agency.
Rankings: Website, Instagram, Twitter
Chris Dreyer: Website, Instagram
Newsletters: The Dreyer Sheet
Books: Personal Injury Lawyer Marketing: From Good to GOAT; Niching Up: The Narrower the Market, the Bigger the Prize
Work with Rankings: Connect
When a childhood dog attack left her scarred, Laura Ramos James learned firsthand what it means to be an injury victim. Today, she reveals how authentic community engagement built her thriving practice, and why staying true to your purpose creates sustainable growth.
Dominate your market today. Grab a copy of Chris’ latest book, Personal Injury Lawyer Marketing: From Good to GOAT.
From grassroots marketing to scaling with purpose, Laura shares how genuine community connections generate high-value cases without traditional advertising spend. Whether you're starting your firm or looking to scale authentically, this episode reveals proven strategies for sustainable growth.
We discuss:
Landing a multi-million dollar case months after opening her firm
Building a dream team through intentional hiring and culture
Leveraging attorney associations for referrals and growth
Serving underrepresented communities while scaling a successful practice
Why authentic marketing beats forced networking every time
Guest Details
Laura Ramos James is the Founder of Ramos James Law, a recognized Texas personal injury firm. Named a "Changemaker" by Austin Woman Magazine and one of Austin's #1 Personal Injury Attorneys since 2022, she's known for advocating for disadvantaged communities while building a thriving practice.
Laura Ramos James: LinkedIn, Instagram
Ramos James Law: Website
Chris Dreyer and Rankings Details
Chris Dreyer is the CEO and founder of Rankings.io, the elite legal digital marketing agency.
Rankings: Website, Instagram, Twitter
Chris Dreyer: Website, Instagram
Newsletters: The Dreyer Sheet
Books: Personal Injury Lawyer Marketing: From Good to GOAT; Niching Up: The Narrower the Market, the Bigger the Prize
Work with Rankings: Connect
Time Stamps
00:00 Intro
05:02 Building the Dream Team Through Trial and Error
06:33 Personal Journey into Personal Injury Law
09:10 Marketing Break: Personal Injury Lawyer Marketing Book
10:14 Community Engagement & Authentic Marketing
12:57 Leveraging Attorney Networks & Professional Associations
15:09 Creating Impact in Underserved Communities
16:27 Daily Practices for Success & Closing Thoughts
You're a powerhouse in the courtroom, but does anyone beyond your county know it? In this episode of Personal Injury Mastermind, Don Worley reveals how being transparent with referral partners helped him scale from 2,000 to 40,000 cases without traditional marketing.
Dominate your market today. Grab a copy of Chris’ latest book, Personal Injury Lawyer Marketing: From Good to GOAT.
Don Worley runs one of the nation's largest mass tort practices, with over 400 law firms sending him cases. But he's never bought a TV ad or danced on TikTok. Instead, he built his empire through radical transparency - sending monthly case updates that most firms are too afraid to share. In this episode, Don explains why letting go of ego and embracing accountability has been the key to his success.
We discuss:
Why great trial lawyers often struggle with self-promotion
How monthly case updates transformed referral relationships
The entertainment factor: Making lawyer events actually fun
Leveraging comedy background for courtroom adaptability
Why you should choose between being an advertising firm or a handling firm
Smart strategies for entering mass torts without losing money
When to wait for Daubert before investing in mass torts
The real reason Wall Street's interest in mass torts has cooled
Guest Details
Don Worley built a nationwide mass tort practice handling over 40,000 cases through referral partnerships. His stand-up comedy background and commitment to transparency helped him create one of the most successful referral networks in the industry.
Don Worley: LinkedIn,
McDonald Worly: Website, Instagram, Facebook,
Chris Dreyer and Rankings Details
Chris Dreyer is the CEO and founder of Rankings.io, the elite legal digital marketing agency.
Rankings: Website, Instagram, Twitter
Chris Dreyer: Website, Instagram
Newsletters: The Dreyer Sheet
Books: Personal Injury Lawyer Marketing: From Good to GOAT; Niching Up: The Narrower the Market, the Bigger the Prize
Work with Rankings: Connect
Time Stamps
00:00 Intro
00:29 The marketing lawyer vs trial lawyer divide
01:17 Don's unique approach to growth
02:14 Relationship building through entertainment
04:08 Comedy background and courtroom skills
07:03 Building a referral network of 400+ firms
08:24 Mass torts: Investment strategies and pitfalls
13:43 Keys to sustainable growth in personal injury
15:30 The power of transparency
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134. Darryl Isaacs, Isaacs & Isaacs — The Hammer: Insights from a Marketing Legend
104. Taly Goody, Goody Law Group — Finding PI Clients on TikTok
63. Joe Fried, Fried Goldberg LLC — How To Become An Expert And Revolutionize Your PI Niche
96. Brian Dean, Backlinko — Becoming a Linkable Source
83. Seth Godin — Differentiation: How to Make Your Law Firm a Purple Cow
73. Neil Patel, Neil Patel — Digital A New Approach to Content and Emerging Marketing Channels
When most firms talk about speed or technology, they focus on one or the other. But as Brian Riley reveals, the real breakthrough comes from their intersection. In this episode of Personal Injury Mastermind, Brian shows how Kurtz Riley transformed these buzzwords into tangible competitive advantages. From three-click complaint filing to aggressive pre-litigation strategies, learn how they've built systems where velocity and technology amplify each other.
Dominate your market today. Grab a copy of Chris’ latest book, Personal Injury Lawyer Marketing: From Good to GOAT.
In just 12 months, Kurtz Riley has proven that explosive growth isn't about working harder – it's about building smarter systems. As a follow-up to our conversation with Austin Kurtz, Brian Riley reveals how they've weaponized the combination of speed and technology to turn their startup into a powerhouse.
We discuss:
How Kurtz Riley automated their complaint filing process down to three clicks
The exact KPIs they use to measure prelitigation performance
Why time-on-desk metrics matter and how to improve them
Building financial forecasting systems for rapid growth
Using AI and client portals to streamline case management
How their litigation-ready approach influences insurance negotiations
The critical metrics that drive their prelitigation department
Guest Details
Brian Riley is the co-founder of Kurtz Riley, bringing hands-on experience from running Morgan & Morgan's Arizona office. Under his leadership, KurtzReilly has built one of the fastest-growing personal injury practices in Arizona by combining aggressive litigation with cutting-edge technology.
Brian Riley: LinkedIn, Instagram
Kurtz Riley: Website, Instagram
Austin Kurtz Interview on PIM
Chris Dreyer and Rankings Details
Chris Dreyer is the CEO and founder of Rankings.io, the elite legal digital marketing agency.
Rankings: Website, Instagram, Twitter
Chris Dreyer: Website, Instagram
Newsletters: The Dreyer Sheet
Books: Personal Injury Lawyer Marketing: From Good to GOAT; Niching Up: The Narrower the Market, the Bigger the Prize
Work with Rankings: Connect
Time Stamps
00:00 Intro
01:00 How Kurtz Riley automates complaint filing
03:09 Brian's personal connection to law through his father's case
04:16 The 14-year case that inspired his legal career
04:37 Path to success: From law school to Morgan & Morgan
06:07 Division of roles at Kurtz Riley
07:11 Pre-litigation KPIs and department oversight
08:19 Average fee goals and firm metrics
09:23 Understanding average fees in Arizona
11:31 The story behind Kurtz Riley's branding
13:23 Financial management and forecasting
15:16 Game-changing tech: Client experience through Quilia app
Additional Episodes You Might Enjoy
80. Mike Papantonio, Levin, Papantonio, & Rafferty — Doing Well by Doing Good
84. Glen Lerner, Lerner and Rowe – A Steady Hand in a Shifting Industry
101. Pratik Shah, EsquireTek — Discovering the Power of Automation
134. Darryl Isaacs, Isaacs & Isaacs — The Hammer: Insights from a Marketing Legend
104. Taly Goody, Goody Law Group — Finding PI Clients on TikTok
63. Joe Fried, Fried Goldberg LLC — How To Become An Expert And Revolutionize Your PI Niche
96. Brian Dean, Backlinko — Becoming a Linkable Source
83. Seth Godin — Differentiation: How to Make Your Law Firm a Purple Cow
73. Neil Patel, Neil Patel — Digital A New Approach to Content and Emerging Marketing Channels
When every expert is trying to sell you something, how do you really know what your firm needs - or what you're wasting money on? In this episode of Personal Injury Mastermind, John Schroeder, owner of DeFacto Digital Consulting, reveals what he's learned from auditing PI firms spending anywhere from $5K to $100K monthly on marketing. From intake gaps to SEO failures, John shares the brutal truth about where most firms are hemorrhaging money without even knowing it.
Dominate your market today. Grab a copy of Chris’ latest book, Personal Injury Lawyer Marketing: From Good to GOAT.
As founder of DeFacto Digital Consulting, John built his business on a radical premise: providing unvarnished, data-driven analysis of law firms' marketing performance.. In this candid conversation, he reveals the common blind spots he finds when analyzing firms across the country - and why most firms don't discover these issues until they're "$50K in the hole." If you're investing in marketing but unsure about the real ROI, this episode gives you the framework to evaluate what's actually working.
We discuss:
Why 90% of intake processes are substandard (and bleeding cases)
The real reason most SEO campaigns fail (it's not what agencies tell you)
How Google Ads managers are losing control (and your money)
The exact metrics John uses to audit marketing performance
How to know if your marketing agency is actually delivering results
Why most firms discover problems $50K too late
Guest Details
John Schroeder is the owner of DeFacto Digital Consulting, specializing in unbiased audits of law firms' digital marketing performance. After years in legal lead generation and agency work, John founded DeFacto to help firms get honest, objective analysis of their marketing effectiveness without trying to sell additional services.
John Schroeder: LinkedIn, Instagram
DeFacto Digital Consulting: Website, Instagram
Chris Dreyer and Rankings Details
Chris Dreyer is the CEO and founder of Rankings.io, the elite legal digital marketing agency.
Rankings: Website, Instagram, Twitter
Chris Dreyer: Website, Instagram
Newsletters: The Dreyer Sheet
Books: Personal Injury Lawyer Marketing: From Good to GOAT; Niching Up: The Narrower the Market, the Bigger the Prize
Work with Rankings: Connect
Time Stamps
00:00 Intro
00:51 The Truth About Legal Marketing Audits
02:07 What Actually Drives PI Cases Today
03:17 Evaluating Intake Performance
04:58 Common SEO Mistakes and Solutions
08:10 Google Ads: Manual Control vs Automation
10:11 In-House vs Third-Party Intake Teams
12:21 Origins of DeFacto Digital
13:45 The Audit Process Explained
Additional Episodes You Might Enjoy
80. Mike Papantonio, Levin, Papantonio, & Rafferty — Doing Well by Doing Good
84. Glen Lerner, Lerner and Rowe – A Steady Hand in a Shifting Industry
101. Pratik Shah, EsquireTek — Discovering the Power of Automation
134. Darryl Isaacs, Isaacs & Isaacs — The Hammer: Insights from a Marketing Legend
104. Taly Goody, Goody Law Group — Finding PI Clients on TikTok
63. Joe Fried, Fried Goldberg LLC — How To Become An Expert And Revolutionize Your PI Niche
96. Brian Dean, Backlinko — Becoming a Linkable Source
83. Seth Godin — Differentiation: How to Make Your Law Firm a Purple Cow
73. Neil Patel, Neil Patel — Digital A New Approach to Content and Emerging Marketing Channels
When 460,000+ law firms compete for attention, casting a wide net is no longer enough. In this episode of Personal Injury Mastermind, we explore how AI and innovative business models are reshaping case acquisition. From precision targeting to owning distribution channels, discover how forward-thinking firms land premium cases by fishing with a spear instead of a net.
Dominate your market today. Grab a copy of Chris’ latest book, Personal Injury Lawyer Marketing: From Good to GOAT.
We discuss:
How FirmPilot's AI platform uses psychographic data to target ideal clients
Why vanity metrics like organic traffic matter less than qualified leads
The real metrics that determine Google Ads placement and cost
How Top Class Actions built a 1.5M monthly visitor platform
The economics of commercial vehicle cases and mass torts
Why traditional case acquisition methods are becoming obsolete
Using data feedback loops to optimize marketing spend
Guest Details
Jake Soffer is the founder and CEO of FirmPilot, an AI-powered marketing platform helping law firms target premium cases. With a background in computer engineering and natural language processing, Jake is revolutionizing how firms approach digital marketing.
Jake Soffer: LinkedIn
Firm Pilotl: Website
Scott Hardy is the founder of Top Class Actions and Leagify Law Firm. Through his innovative approach to case acquisition and Arizona's new rules allowing non-lawyer ownership, Scott has built a platform that attracts 1.5 million potential clients monthly.
Scott Hardy: LinkedIn
Top Class Actions: Website, Legal Fi Website
Chris Dreyer and Rankings Details
Chris Dreyer is the CEO and founder of Rankings.io, the elite legal digital marketing agency.
Rankings: Website, Instagram, Twitter
Chris Dreyer: Website, Instagram
Newsletters: The Dreyer Sheet
Books: Personal Injury Lawyer Marketing: From Good to GOAT; Niching Up: The Narrower the Market, the Bigger the Prize
Work with Rankings: Connect
Time Stamps
00:00 Intro
00:43 Meet Jake Soffer & FirmPilot
03:22 The Evolution of Legal Marketing
07:06 AI Marketing Capabilities
10:30 Scott Hardy & Top Class Actions
12:14 Commercial Vehicle Cases
14:59 Forward Integration Strategy
18:36 Closing Thoughts
Additional Episodes You Might Enjoy
80. Mike Papantonio, Levin, Papantonio, & Rafferty — Doing Well by Doing Good
84. Glen Lerner, Lerner and Rowe – A Steady Hand in a Shifting Industry
101. Pratik Shah, EsquireTek — Discovering the Power of Automation
134. Darryl Isaacs, Isaacs & Isaacs — The Hammer: Insights from a Marketing Legend
104. Taly Goody, Goody Law Group — Finding PI Clients on TikTok
63. Joe Fried, Fried Goldberg LLC — How To Become An Expert And Revolutionize Your PI Niche
96. Brian Dean, Backlinko — Becoming a Linkable Source
83. Seth Godin — Differentiation: How to Make Your Law Firm a Purple Cow
73. Neil Patel, Neil Patel — Digital A New Approach to Content and Emerging Marketing Channels
After decades of success, Bill Umansky realized something was missing in how he ran his firm. In this episode of Personal Injury Mastermind, Bill reveals why he transformed his leadership style to focus on deeper relationships over pure growth numbers. From having lunch with entry-level staff to maintaining genuine connections with former employees, his approach challenges everything we think we know about scaling a law firm. Whether you're running a growing practice or building your team, this episode shows why authentic leadership might be your most powerful asset.
Dominate your market today. Grab a copy of Chris’ latest book, Personal Injury Lawyer Marketing: From Good to GOAT.
We discuss:
Why focusing on relationship depth matters more than pure numerical growth
How stepping away from practicing law led to better firm leadership
The transformative impact of finally hiring a CFO after 28 years
Building authentic connections with remote and overseas team members
Strategies for maintaining positive relationships with departing employees
Why intentional leadership requires connecting with all levels of staff
The importance of starting relationship-building from day one of employment
Guest Details
Bill "The Lawman" Umansky has built one of Orlando's most respected law firms by focusing on authentic leadership and deep relationships. His innovative approach to firm culture and management has created lasting connections with both current and former team members.
Bill Umansky: LinkedIn, Book, Instagram
Umansky Law Firm:Website,YouTube, Podcast, TikTok
Podcast: Lawmans Lounge
Chris Dreyer and Rankings Details
Chris Dreyer is the CEO and founder of Rankings.io, the elite legal digital marketing agency.
Rankings: Website, Instagram, Twitter
Chris Dreyer: Website, Instagram
Newsletters: The Dreyer Sheet
Books: Personal Injury Lawyer Marketing: From Good to GOAT; Niching Up: The Narrower the Market, the Bigger the Prize
Work with Rankings: Connect
Time Stamps
00:00 Intro
00:53 Growth through depth, not just numbers
01:37 From practicing attorney to firm leader
02:30 The game-changing CFO hire
05:29 Rainmaking and networking evolution
09:00 Business development strategy
14:17 Success with former employees 17:02 Building authentic team connections
Additional Episodes You Might Enjoy
80. Mike Papantonio, Levin, Papantonio, & Rafferty — Doing Well by Doing Good
84. Glen Lerner, Lerner and Rowe – A Steady Hand in a Shifting Industry
101. Pratik Shah, EsquireTek — Discovering the Power of Automation
134. Darryl Isaacs, Isaacs & Isaacs — The Hammer: Insights from a Marketing Legend
104. Taly Goody, Goody Law Group — Finding PI Clients on TikTok
63. Joe Fried, Fried Goldberg LLC — How To Become An Expert And Revolutionize Your PI Niche
96. Brian Dean, Backlinko — Becoming a Linkable Source
83. Seth Godin — Differentiation: How to Make Your Law Firm a Purple Cow
73. Neil Patel, Neil Patel — Digital A New Approach to Content and Emerging Marketing Channels
When a $5,000 advance requires a $40,000 payback, something's broken in legal funding. Banks and credit card companies have been slamming injured clients with compounding interest rates for decades – until one former PI attorney decided to break the system with a tech-driven marketplace solution.
Dominate your market today. Grab a copy of Chris’ latest book, Personal Injury Lawyer Marketing: From Good to GOAT.
In this episode of Personal Injury Mastermind, former attorney and CEO of ClaimAngel, Jeremy Alters reveals how a transparent marketplace is forcing traditional funders to compete on rates and speed. From capped interest rates to one-touch funding, discover how technology is dragging a shadowy industry into the sunlight.
We discuss:
Why traditional litigation funding often makes cases impossible to settle
How a tech-driven marketplace caps interest at 27.8% (lower than credit cards)
The real reason many firms stick with predatory lenders (it's not just the sports tickets)
Why meeting your fiduciary duty requires shopping multiple funding sources
How automated one-touch funding is processing claims in hours instead of weeks
The future of litigation funding and why transparency is winning
Guest Details
Jeremy Alters spent 23 years practicing personal injury law before becoming CEO of ClaimAngel, where he's pioneering fair funding practices through marketplace technology. Under his leadership, the platform has funded over 4,000 cases totaling more than $25 million, while maintaining the industry's lowest interest rates.
Jeremy Alters: LinkedIn
Claim Angel: Website
Chris Dreyer and Rankings Details
Chris Dreyer is the CEO and founder of Rankings.io, the elite legal digital marketing agency.
Rankings: Website, Instagram, Twitter
Chris Dreyer: Website, Instagram
Newsletters: The Dreyer Sheet
Books: Personal Injury Lawyer Marketing: From Good to GOAT; Niching Up: The Narrower the Market, the Bigger the Prize
Work with Rankings: Connect
Time Stamps
00:00 Intro
02:08 The State of Legal Funding
04:30 How Non-Recourse Funding Works
08:15 Inside the Marketplace
11:45 Why Firms Resist Change
13:30 Building Network Effects
14:39 Industry Pushback: "You're Ruining the Industry"
15:30 Closing Thoughts: The Future of Fair Funding
Additional Episodes You Might Enjoy
80. Mike Papantonio, Levin, Papantonio, & Rafferty — Doing Well by Doing Good
84. Glen Lerner, Lerner and Rowe – A Steady Hand in a Shifting Industry
101. Pratik Shah, EsquireTek — Discovering the Power of Automation
134. Darryl Isaacs, Isaacs & Isaacs — The Hammer: Insights from a Marketing Legend
104. Taly Goody, Goody Law Group — Finding PI Clients on TikTok
63. Joe Fried, Fried Goldberg LLC — How To Become An Expert And Revolutionize Your PI Niche
96. Brian Dean, Backlinko — Becoming a Linkable Source
83. Seth Godin — Differentiation: How to Make Your Law Firm a Purple Cow
73. Neil Patel, Neil Patel — Digital A New Approach to Content and Emerging Marketing Channels
Most PI firms handle settlement planning and lien resolution in-house, creating bottlenecks and frustration at the most critical stage of client experience. In this episode of Personal Injury Mastermind, Jason Lazarus and Brian Adair reveal why specialized expertise in these areas doesn't just save time and money - it transforms client satisfaction and drives better reviews.
Dominate your market today. Grab a copy of Chris’ latest book, Personal Injury Lawyer Marketing: From Good to GOAT.
We discuss:
Why the final settlement experience makes or breaks client reviews
How early settlement planning prevents common client care disasters
The hidden costs of in-house lien resolution (like time spent on Medicare hold)
Using expert partners to provide concierge-level client care
Turning post-settlement work from a cost center into a growth driver
Why specialized settlement knowledge prevents malpractice risks
Guest Details
Jason Lazarus is the CEO of Synergy Settlement Services, bringing insider expertise to lien resolution and settlement planning.
Jason Lazarus: LinkedIn, Website
Synergy Settlement Services: Website
Book: The Art of Settlement
Brian Adair is the founder of Adair Financial Group, specializing in comprehensive settlement planning and client care solutions.
Brian Adair: LinkedIn
Adair Financial Group: Website
Chris Dreyer and Rankings Details
Chris Dreyer is the CEO and founder of Rankings.io, the elite legal digital marketing agency.
Rankings: Website, Instagram, Twitter
Chris Dreyer: Website, Instagram
Newsletters: The Dreyer Sheet
Books: Personal Injury Lawyer Marketing: From Good to GOAT; Niching Up: The Narrower the Market, the Bigger the Prize
Work with Rankings: Connect
Time Stamps
00:00 Intro
01:01 Dan's journey from trial attorney to business operations
02:07 Evolution of Morgan & Morgan's Purple Cow Committee
04:54 Building an elite referral operation
08:00 The "nuclear plan" for referral conversion
10:07 Why they refer out turndown cases
13:37 Tracking metrics and maintaining quality
16:22 Sports partnerships and marketing innovation 1
9:16 Leveraging partnerships beyond sponsorships
21:31 Community involvement and disaster response
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80. Mike Papantonio, Levin, Papantonio, & Rafferty — Doing Well by Doing Good
84. Glen Lerner, Lerner and Rowe – A Steady Hand in a Shifting Industry
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134. Darryl Isaacs, Isaacs & Isaacs — The Hammer: Insights from a Marketing Legend
104. Taly Goody, Goody Law Group — Finding PI Clients on TikTok
63. Joe Fried, Fried Goldberg LLC — How To Become An Expert And Revolutionize Your PI Niche
96. Brian Dean, Backlinko — Becoming a Linkable Source
83. Seth Godin — Differentiation: How to Make Your Law Firm a Purple Cow
73. Neil Patel, Neil Patel — Digital A New Approach to Content and Emerging Marketing Channels
In this landmark 300th episode of Personal Injury Mastermind, Dan Morgan reveals how Morgan & Morgan transformed their referral operations from a legal pad system into a $63 million revenue engine. From outbound referral optimization to groundbreaking sports partnerships, Dan shares the exact strategies that helped build one of the most recognizable law firm brands in America.
Dominate your market today. Grab a copy of Chris’ latest book, Personal Injury Lawyer Marketing: From Good to GOAT.
When Dan took over Morgan & Morgan's referral operations in 2020, they were generating $15 million in referral revenue. Today, they're on track for $63 million, with projections of hitting nine figures next year. He explains how in this special keynote talk from PIMCON. Dan breaks down the systems and strategies that drove this explosive growth, including how they're converting 85% of rear-end accident referrals through their "nuclear plan" and why they're sending turndown cases to partner firms.
We discuss:
How Morgan & Morgan increased referral conversion rates from 18% to 38% with one simple change
Why they're getting 7-figure settlements on cases they initially turned down
The exact formula they use to evaluate marketing spend and determine budgets
Their "bullets before bombs" testing strategy for new marketing channels
How they're leveraging sports partnerships with UFC, WWE, and others to drive record call volume
The sweepstakes strategy that's helping them track marketing attribution
Why investing in local community presence delivers consistent ROI
Guest Details
Dan Morgan serves as head of partnerships and referral operations at Morgan & Morgan, one of America's largest personal injury law firms. Under his leadership, the firm has pioneered innovative marketing strategies and built a nationwide referral network handling over 100,000 case referrals annually.
Dan Morgan: LinkedIn, Instagram
Morgan and Morgan: Website, LinkedIn, TikTok
Chris Dreyer and Rankings Details
Chris Dreyer is the CEO and founder of Rankings.io, the elite legal digital marketing agency.
Rankings: Website, Instagram, Twitter
Chris Dreyer: Website, Instagram
Newsletters: The Dreyer Sheet
Books: Personal Injury Lawyer Marketing: From Good to GOAT; Niching Up: The Narrower the Market, the Bigger the Prize
Work with Rankings: Connect
Time Stamps
00:00 Intro
01:01 Dan's journey from trial attorney to business operations
02:07 Evolution of Morgan & Morgan's Purple Cow Committee
04:54 Building an elite referral operation
08:00 The "nuclear plan" for referral conversion
10:07 Why they refer out turndown cases
13:37 Tracking metrics and maintaining quality
16:22 Sports partnerships and marketing innovation 1
9:16 Leveraging partnerships beyond sponsorships
21:31 Community involvement and disaster response
Additional Episodes You Might Enjoy
80. Mike Papantonio, Levin, Papantonio, & Rafferty — Doing Well by Doing Good
84. Glen Lerner, Lerner and Rowe – A Steady Hand in a Shifting Industry
101. Pratik Shah, EsquireTek — Discovering the Power of Automation
134. Darryl Isaacs, Isaacs & Isaacs — The Hammer: Insights from a Marketing Legend
104. Taly Goody, Goody Law Group — Finding PI Clients on TikTok
63. Joe Fried, Fried Goldberg LLC — How To Become An Expert And Revolutionize Your PI Niche
96. Brian Dean, Backlinko — Becoming a Linkable Source
83. Seth Godin — Differentiation: How to Make Your Law Firm a Purple Cow
73. Neil Patel, Neil Patel — Digital A New Approach to Content and Emerging Marketing Channels
Stop letting valuable cases walk out the door. In this episode of Personal Injury Mastermind, Matt Thelen reveals how modern referral networks are transforming case sharing and creating new revenue streams for forward-thinking firms. From automated case distribution to nationwide partnerships, discover how technology is eliminating the inefficiencies that have plagued referral management for decades.
Dominate your market today. Grab a copy of Chris’ latest book, Personal Injury Lawyer Marketing: From Good to GOAT.
We discuss:
Why traditional referral networks leave money on the table
How automated "waterfall" distribution gets cases to the right attorneys faster
Building merit-based partnerships beyond your immediate network
Digital tracking systems that eliminate referral management headaches
Integrating referral management with your existing case management software
Strategies for monetizing out-of-jurisdiction and practice area cases
Guest Details
Matt Thelen holds a joint JD/MBA and has taken a startup through an IPO on the New York Stock Exchange. Now he's applying that same efficiency-focused mindset to solve one of the legal industry's biggest headaches - referral management.
Matt Thelen: LinkedIn
Attorney Share: Website, LinkedIn, Instagram
Chris Dreyer and Rankings Details
Chris Dreyer is the CEO and founder of Rankings.io, the elite legal digital marketing agency.
Rankings: Website, Instagram, Twitter
Chris Dreyer: Website, Instagram
Newsletters: The Dreyer Sheet
Books: Personal Injury Lawyer Marketing: From Good to GOAT; Niching Up: The Narrower the Market, the Bigger the Prize
Work with Rankings: Connect
Time Stamps
00:00 Intro
00:51 Breaking away from old-school referral networks
02:27 The three major pain points in case sharing
05:27 From IPO to legal tech innovation
07:07 Automating case distribution with waterfalls
09:14 Integration with case management platforms
10:30 Building nationwide network effects
14:31 Future-proofing your practice through diversification
15:00 Simple pricing for maximum value
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84. Glen Lerner, Lerner and Rowe – A Steady Hand in a Shifting Industry
101. Pratik Shah, EsquireTek — Discovering the Power of Automation
134. Darryl Isaacs, Isaacs & Isaacs — The Hammer: Insights from a Marketing Legend
104. Taly Goody, Goody Law Group — Finding PI Clients on TikTok
63. Joe Fried, Fried Goldberg LLC — How To Become An Expert And Revolutionize Your PI Niche
96. Brian Dean, Backlinko — Becoming a Linkable Source
83. Seth Godin — Differentiation: How to Make Your Law Firm a Purple Cow
73. Neil Patel, Neil Patel — Digital A New Approach to Content and Emerging Marketing Channels
"When I started LawHer, only 18% of law firm partners were women. Just 3 years later, it's 22% - and that's just the beginning." - Sonya Palmer. Listen to LawHer here.
From intake mastery to AI implementation, Rankings.io's VP of Operations Sonya Palmer shares the systems and strategies that actually move the needle in 2024. If you're looking to scale your firm while building a culture that attracts top talent, don't miss this special partner episode from Be That Lawyer with Steve Fritzen.
In this special partner episode of Personal Injury Mastermind, we're excited to share a powerful conversation from Be That Lawyer with Steve Fritzen featuring Sonya Palmer, VP of Operations at Rankings.io and host of the LawHer podcast. From scaling operations to empowering women in legal leadership, Sonya shares insights on building successful teams and transforming law firm culture.
We discuss:
Why diversity in leadership leads to better client service and business outcomes
How the pandemic has transformed opportunities for women in law
Practical strategies for creating content and leveraging AI in legal marketing
Building effective hiring and onboarding processes that identify top talent
Managing underperforming employees and creating accountability
The importance of establishing clear KPIs and performance metrics
Why authenticity matters more than traditional networking approaches
How to scale operations while maintaining quality and culture
Dominate your market today. Grab a copy of Chris’ latest book, Personal Injury Lawyer Marketing: From Good to GOAT.
Chris Dreyer and Rankings Details
Chris Dreyer is the CEO and founder of Rankings.io, the elite legal digital marketing agency.
Rankings: Website, Instagram, Twitter
Chris Dreyer: Website, Instagram
Newsletters: The Dreyer Sheet
Books: Personal Injury Lawyer Marketing: From Good to GOAT; Niching Up: The Narrower the Market, the Bigger the Prize
Work with Rankings: Connect
Time Stamps
00:00 Intro
01:03 Leadership Philosophy & Vision
04:41 Women in Legal Leadership
09:12 Marketing & Content Strategy
13:34 AI Tools & Implementation
15:32 Hiring & Team Building
20:36 Performance Management
24:27 Scaling Operations
28:05 Future of Legal Industry
31:00 Closing Thoughts
Additional Episodes You Might Enjoy
80. Mike Papantonio, Levin, Papantonio, & Rafferty — Doing Well by Doing Good
84. Glen Lerner, Lerner and Rowe – A Steady Hand in a Shifting Industry
101. Pratik Shah, EsquireTek — Discovering the Power of Automation
134. Darryl Isaacs, Isaacs & Isaacs — The Hammer: Insights from a Marketing Legend
104. Taly Goody, Goody Law Group — Finding PI Clients on TikTok
63. Joe Fried, Fried Goldberg LLC — How To Become An Expert And Revolutionize Your PI Niche
96. Brian Dean, Backlinko — Becoming a Linkable Source
83. Seth Godin — Differentiation: How to Make Your Law Firm a Purple Cow
73. Neil Patel, Neil Patel — Digital A New Approach to Content and Emerging Marketing Channels
Most new firms struggle for years to build a steady caseload. But what if you could shortcut that journey? Kurtz Riley Law doubled their expectations every month by combining smart referral partnerships with cutting-edge tech.
Dominate your market today. Grab a copy of Chris’ latest book, Personal Injury Lawyer Marketing: From Good to GOAT.
In this episode of Personal Injury Mastermind, Austin Kurtz shares how his firm scaled rapidly by focusing on attorney referrals and operational efficiency. From AI-powered file management to strategic case selection, this is the roadmap for accelerating your firm's growth through smart partnerships and systems.
We discuss:
Referral partnerships vs. traditional marketing for new firms
Using AI and automation to handle rapid case growth
The exact tech stack for moving files faster
Strategic case selection criteria for maximum growth
Building relationships that drive consistent referrals
Balancing growth with quality representation
The future of legal tech and firm operations
Guest Details
Austin Kurtz is co-founder of a rapidly growing personal injury firm in Arizona. Known for their innovative approach to operations and marketing, they've built one of the fastest-growing referral networks in the Southwest through strategic partnerships and cutting-edge technology.
Austin Kurtz: LinkedIn, Website, Instagram
Kurtz Riley Law: Website, Instagram
Chris Dreyer and Rankings Details
Chris Dreyer is the CEO and founder of Rankings.io, the elite legal digital marketing agency.
Rankings: Website, Instagram, Twitter
Chris Dreyer: Website, Instagram
Newsletters: The Dreyer Sheet
Books: Personal Injury Lawyer Marketing: From Good to GOAT; Niching Up: The Narrower the Market, the Bigger the Prize
Work with Rankings: Connect
Time Stamps
00:00 Intro
00:32 Tech-first approach to scaling
02:12 Building elite referral partnerships
04:34 Strategic case selection
07:02 From commercial litigation to PI
09:30 Operational efficiency
10:44 The referral advantage
12:30 Future of legal tech
14:30 Arizona’s evolving legal landscape
16:00 Serving underserved communities
17:03 Culture and authenticity
Additional Episodes You Might Enjoy
80. Mike Papantonio, Levin, Papantonio, & Rafferty — Doing Well by Doing Good
84. Glen Lerner, Lerner and Rowe – A Steady Hand in a Shifting Industry
101. Pratik Shah, EsquireTek — Discovering the Power of Automation
134. Darryl Isaacs, Isaacs & Isaacs — The Hammer: Insights from a Marketing Legend
104. Taly Goody, Goody Law Group — Finding PI Clients on TikTok
63. Joe Fried, Fried Goldberg LLC — How To Become An Expert And Revolutionize Your PI Niche
96. Brian Dean, Backlinko — Becoming a Linkable Source
83. Seth Godin — Differentiation: How to Make Your Law Firm a Purple Cow
73. Neil Patel, Neil Patel — Digital A New Approach to Content and Emerging Marketing Channels
Most law firms never reach $1M in revenue, but Sasha Berson has helped countless firms double their income through data-driven marketing. We dive deep into the exact metrics and strategies needed to hit critical revenue milestones. From calculating your required lead volume to identifying untapped practice areas, Sasha shares the framework that's helped 2,000+ firms scale their practices.
Dominate your market today. Grab a copy of Chris’ latest book, Personal Injury Lawyer Marketing: From Good to GOAT.
In this episode of Personal Injury Mastermind, the Chief Growth Master at Grow Law Firm reveals his proven blueprint for scaling from $1M to $10M+. Learn how to leverage untapped practice areas and optimize your marketing spend for maximum ROI.
We discuss:
The precise lead volume needed to achieve revenue targets
Key challenges in scaling beyond $8M revenue
Finding profitable practice areas in competitive markets
Client acquisition costs across different case types
Search marketing fundamentals for sustainable growth
Building an effective organizational structure
Integrating sales enablement into your practice
Guest Details
Sasha Berson is the Chief Growth Master at Grow Law Firm, where he's helped over 2,000 law firms double their revenue through data-driven marketing strategies.
Sasha Berson: LinkedIn, Instagram,
Grow Law Firm: Website, Podcast
Chris Dreyer and Rankings Details
Chris Dreyer is the CEO and founder of Rankings.io, the elite legal digital marketing agency.
Rankings: Website, Instagram, Twitter
Chris Dreyer: Website, Instagram
Newsletters: The Dreyer Sheet
Books: Personal Injury Lawyer Marketing: From Good to GOAT; Niching Up: The Narrower the Market, the Bigger the Prize
Work with Rankings: Connect
Time Stamps
00:00 Intro
01:37 Finding Profitable Niches
04:32 Scaling to Your First Million
07:27 The Path to $10M Revenue
09:12 Search Marketing Dominance
12:03 Social Media Reality Check
13:38 Sales Enablement in Law Firms
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84. Glen Lerner, Lerner and Rowe – A Steady Hand in a Shifting Industry
101. Pratik Shah, EsquireTek — Discovering the Power of Automation
134. Darryl Isaacs, Isaacs & Isaacs — The Hammer: Insights from a Marketing Legend
104. Taly Goody, Goody Law Group — Finding PI Clients on TikTok
63. Joe Fried, Fried Goldberg LLC — How To Become An Expert And Revolutionize Your PI Niche
96. Brian Dean, Backlinko — Becoming a Linkable Source
83. Seth Godin — Differentiation: How to Make Your Law Firm a Purple Cow
73. Neil Patel, Neil Patel — Digital A New Approach to Content and Emerging Marketing Channels
Most lawyers think success means looking polished and professional. This former firefighter proved them wrong. In this episode of Personal Injury Mastermind, Ryan reveals how his early attempts at "looking like a lawyer" bombed, while raw, emotional content built him a following of 1.9 million. From getting rejected by 13 law schools to becoming a social media phenomenon, Ryan breaks down why authenticity beats credentials in modern legal marketing.
Dominate your market today. Grab a copy of Chris’ latest book, Personal Injury Lawyer Marketing: From Good to GOAT.
In this episode of Personal Injury Mastermind, former firefighter turned employment lawyer Ryan shares how he built a following of over 1.9 million people through education instead of advertising. Ryan found his path and revolutionized legal marketing by focusing on authentic content that serves his audience.
We discuss:
How to build trust through education instead of sales
Why practice area shouldn't limit your content strategy
The power of showing emotion and being real on camera
Why competing with big firms on their terms is a losing strategy
The metrics that actually matter for social media success
Guest Details
Ryan Stygar is a former firefighter who spent four years battling California's wildfires and serving as a desert-rescue specialist in the Ocotillo Wells region before becoming an employment lawyer. He's built an incredible following with 1.9 Million TikTok followers and 191K YouTube subscribers.
Ryan Stygar: LinkedIn, Website, Books
Centurion Trial Attorneys: Website, YouTube, Podcast, TikTok, Instagram
Chris Dreyer and Rankings Details
Chris Dreyer is the CEO and founder of Rankings.io, the elite legal digital marketing agency.
Rankings: Website, Instagram, Twitter
Chris Dreyer: Website, Instagram
Newsletters: The Dreyer Sheet
Books: Personal Injury Lawyer Marketing: From Good to GOAT; Niching Up: The Narrower the Market, the Bigger the Prize
Work with Rankings: Connect
Time Stamps
00:00 Intro
02:11 Why Ryan Left Firefighting
04:14 Starting from Zero: Early Days of Marketing
05:47 The Anti-Sell Approach: Education Over Advertising
07:03 Content Strategy: Why Practice Area Doesn't Matter
08:41 The Evolution: From Polished to Authentic Content
13:20 Organic vs Paid Growth: Strategic Approach
14:33 Building a Personal Brand vs Traditional Marketing
15:34 Don’t Box Mike Tyson: Play Him at Pickelball
16:25 The Power of Authenticity and Work-Life Balance
17:30 Closing Thoughts
Additional Episodes You Might Enjoy
80. Mike Papantonio, Levin, Papantonio, & Rafferty — Doing Well by Doing Good
84. Glen Lerner, Lerner and Rowe – A Steady Hand in a Shifting Industry
101. Pratik Shah, EsquireTek — Discovering the Power of Automation
134. Darryl Isaacs, Isaacs & Isaacs — The Hammer: Insights from a Marketing Legend
104. Taly Goody, Goody Law Group — Finding PI Clients on TikTok
63. Joe Fried, Fried Goldberg LLC — How To Become An Expert And Revolutionize Your PI Niche
96. Brian Dean, Backlinko — Becoming a Linkable Source
83. Seth Godin — Differentiation: How to Make Your Law Firm a Purple Cow
73. Neil Patel, Neil Patel — Digital A New Approach to Content and Emerging Marketing Channels
Mike Perez, founder of iLawyer Marketing, reveals groundbreaking research that challenges everything you think you know about legal marketing. His latest click study exposes why being #1 doesn't guarantee success and how some top-ranked firms are losing cases to lower-positioned competitors.
Dominate your market today. Grab a copy of Chris’ latest book, Personal Injury Lawyer Marketing: From Good to GOAT.
In this data-driven episode of Personal Injury Mastermind, Mike shares proprietary research showing why traditional marketing metrics mislead PI firms, and how understanding client behavior transforms marketing ROI. He reveals why some firms spending $100K+ monthly on Google Ads see exponential returns while others waste money on the same platforms.
We discuss:
The real reason some Google Ads campaigns crush it (while others fail)
How to turn data into media coverage and high-authority backlinks
Why your website is the biggest factor in securing seven-figure cases
Organic vs. paid social for social
Smart strategies for new firms entering competitive markets
Guest Details
Mike Perez, has conducted pioneering research on legal consumer behavior through iLawyer Marketing and 1.21 Interactive. His click studies and heat map analysis have revolutionized how elite firms approach digital marketing, leading to breakthrough insights about how serious clients actually choose their lawyer.
Mike Perez: LinkedIn
iLawyer Marketing: LinkedIn, Website, Instagram
Chris Dreyer and Rankings Details
Chris Dreyer is the CEO and founder of Rankings.io, the elite legal digital marketing agency.
Rankings: Website, Instagram, Twitter
Chris Dreyer: Website, Instagram
Newsletters: The Dreyer Sheet
Books: Personal Injury Lawyer Marketing: From Good to GOAT; Niching Up: The Narrower the Market, the Bigger the Prize
Work with Rankings: Connect
Time Stamps
00:00 Intro
03:15 Click Studies: How Clients Actually Choose Lawyers
05:30 The Truth About LSAs: Is the Golden Age is Over?
06:57 Put it All on Google Ads: Why Six-Figure Budgets Win (And Small Spends Fail)
09:45 Fight Fake Reviews & Spam to Boost SEO
11:42 Earned Media: Turning Data into Headlines
13:15 Designing the Perfect Website to Attract Seven-Figure Cases
15:00 The Ultimate Marketing Mix: Strategies from Startup to Empire
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134. Darryl Isaacs, Isaacs & Isaacs — The Hammer: Insights from a Marketing Legend
104. Taly Goody, Goody Law Group — Finding PI Clients on TikTok
63. Joe Fried, Fried Goldberg LLC — How To Become An Expert And Revolutionize Your PI Niche
96. Brian Dean, Backlinko — Becoming a Linkable Source
83. Seth Godin — Differentiation: How to Make Your Law Firm a Purple Cow
73. Neil Patel, Neil Patel — Digital A New Approach to Content and Emerging Marketing Channels
When TopDog Law discovered they were overstaffed but still missing calls, they knew something had to change. In this episode, James Helm reveals how they transformed their intake from a traditional answering service into a data-driven powerhouse that's converting at elite levels.
Dominate your market today. Grab a copy of Chris’ latest book, Personal Injury Lawyer Marketing: From Good to GOAT.
Your firm can live and die by intake. In this episode of Personal Injury Mastermind, James Helm returns to share how TopDog Law scaled their in-house intake team while improving conversion rates. From AI-powered quality control to precision scheduling, this is the blueprint for building a modern intake operation. If you're ready to move beyond basic CRM and transform your intake into a revenue engine, this episode is your roadmap.
We discuss:
The real reason most law firms miss calls (hint: it's not understaffing)
How Top Dog improved web form conversions from 25% to 29% with one change
When to choose out-of-box solutions vs. enterprise platforms like Salesforce
Using AI to flag high-value calls and monitor quality
Data-driven scheduling that eliminated overflow calls
The exact metrics that matter for measuring intake performance
Guest Details
James Helm is the founder of TopDog Law, handling thousands of calls monthly across multiple states. Under his leadership, TopDog has built one of the most sophisticated intake operations in the legal industry, combining cutting-edge technology with precision operations management.
James Helm: LinkedIn
TopDog Law: Instagram, Website, TikTok, Facebook
Chris Dreyer and Rankings Details
Chris Dreyer is the CEO and founder of Rankings.io, the elite legal digital marketing agency.
Rankings: Website, Instagram, Twitter
Chris Dreyer: Website, Instagram
Newsletters: The Dreyer Sheet
Books: Personal Injury Lawyer Marketing: From Good to GOAT; Niching Up: The Narrower the Market, the Bigger the Prize
Work with Rankings: Connect
Time Stamps
00:00 Intro
04:01 Evolution from Call Center to In-House Operations
08:24 Agent Performance & Turnover Management
13:19 Converting Web Forms vs Inbound Calls
16:42 Quality Assurance & AI Integration
22:00 Staffing & Scheduling Challenges
28:27 Tech Stack & Salesforce Implementation
30:21 CRM Solutions for Different Firm Sizes
33:43 Future of AI in Legal Intake
35:30 Outro
Additional Episodes You Might Enjoy
80. Mike Papantonio, Levin, Papantonio, & Rafferty — Doing Well by Doing Good
84. Glen Lerner, Lerner and Rowe – A Steady Hand in a Shifting Industry
101. Pratik Shah, EsquireTek — Discovering the Power of Automation
134. Darryl Isaacs, Isaacs & Isaacs — The Hammer: Insights from a Marketing Legend
104. Taly Goody, Goody Law Group — Finding PI Clients on TikTok
63. Joe Fried, Fried Goldberg LLC — How To Become An Expert And Revolutionize Your PI Niche
96. Brian Dean, Backlinko — Becoming a Linkable Source
83. Seth Godin — Differentiation: How to Make Your Law Firm a Purple Cow
73. Neil Patel, Neil Patel — Digital A New Approach to Content and Emerging Marketing Channels
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