Episodes

  • How to Lead with Purpose Under Pressure with Susan Drumm | Ep. 149

    How to Lead with Purpose Under Pressure with Susan Drumm | Ep. 149
    Sep 15 2025
    On this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Steve Riley welcomes Susan Drumm—a Harvard-trained lawyer, bestselling author of The Leader’s Playlist, and leadership advisor whose path from law to acting to consulting shaped her approach to leadership. Susan shows how to lead with purpose by connecting music, neuroscience, and personal growth. Her eclectic career taught her the power of reinvention. Today she helps leaders uncover blind spots, disrupt limiting patterns, and embrace cognitive diversity, enabling purposeful leadership in business and life. Susan shares how music can shift emotional states, rewire the brain, and help leaders stay grounded in high-pressure moments such as client meetings or trials. She explains why processing negative emotions is essential and how reframing them—using tools like music—can turn challenges into opportunities for growth. Listeners will hear vivid stories, like how Bruno Mars’ 24K Magic helped her release resentment and reclaim her confidence. You’ll also learn how her use of the Enneagram can help uncover leadership “superpowers” and strengthen team dynamics. This conversation is a fresh reminder that true leadership is more than strategy. It’s about how you show up, connect with others, and lead with purpose every day. In this episode, you will hear: Susan Drumm’s unique journey from law to leadership advising, integrating music and neuroscience Importance of pattern recognition and cognitive diversity in enhancing leadership and team dynamics Music as a transformative tool for shifting emotional states and breaking free from negative patterns Creating empowering playlists to promote emotional resilience and personal growth Leveraging tools like the Enneagram to identify blind spots and improve decision-making Using music to consciously foster freedom, connection, and playfulness in leadership Advice and resources for using music to enhance leadership skills and personal development Subscribe & Review Never miss an episode. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube. ⭐Like what you hear? A quick review helps more people find the show.⭐ Supporting Resources: Subscribe to the Atticus Newsletter: atticusadvantage.com/newsletterSusan Drumm: susandrumm.comMeritage Leadership Development: meritageleadership.comThe Enlightened Executive Podcast: susandrumm.com/podcastLeadership Superpower & Roadblock Assessment (Free Quiz on SusanDrumm.com): meritageleadership.com/quizThe Leader’s Playlist Masterclass: susandrumm.com/masterclassSusan’s Enneagram Applied Program: susandrumm.kartra.com/page/Join-EnneagramApplied *get 20% off Susan’s Enneagram Applied course with code 20OFFEASusan’s social media platforms: x.com/DrummLeadershipwww.instagram.com/drummleadershipwww.linkedin.com/in/susan-drumm-bb09732www.facebook.com/drummleadershipwww.youtube.com/@susandrumm Benson Boone: www.youtube.com/watch?v=jP2eiap41o8The Summit: atticussummit.com Music moves brain to pay attention, Stanford study https://med.stanford.edu/news/all-news/2007/07/music-moves-brain-to-pay-attention-stanford-study-finds Music doesn’t just evoke memories — it can also change how we remember the past: study https://nypost.com/2024/12/22/lifestyle/music-can-change-how-we-remember-the-past-psychology-researcher-says/ Music’s power over our brains https://www.apa.org/monitor/2020/11/news-music-power The effects of music on brain plasticity https://myneuronews.com/2025/04/27/the-effects-of-music-on-brain-plasticity/ Listening to music lights up the whole brain https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/12/111205081731.htm If there’s a topic you would like us to cover on an upcoming episode, please email us at steve.riley@atticusadvantage.com. 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.
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    49 mins
  • The Leadership Lesson Every Lawyer Needs to Hear with Patrick McLain | Ep. 148

    The Leadership Lesson Every Lawyer Needs to Hear with Patrick McLain | Ep. 148
    Sep 8 2025

    On this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Steve Riley sits down with attorney and former Marine Corps officer Patrick McLain to share the leadership lesson lawyers need most today. Patrick’s path took him from serving as a Marine JAG officer and military judge to building a successful criminal defense practice. Along the way, he discovered that the same principles that carried him through combat zones could also guide him in the courtroom and in leadership.

    Patrick talks about the challenges of transitioning from military life to private practice, and how niching down in criminal defense allowed him to build a firm with purpose and clarity. He also shares how embracing innovation, empowering his team, and leaning into the human side of advocacy helped him create a practice that thrives in today’s legal world.

    Yet, the most surprising leadership lesson lawyers need to hear comes at the end of his story. Despite his military background and commanding presence, Patrick reveals that the greatest insight he has learned is love. Leading with compassion, for clients, colleagues, and community, not only defines his approach to law but also shapes the legacy he wants to leave behind.

    This conversation is both practical and deeply human. It’s a reminder that while systems and strategies matter, the leadership lesson lawyers need is to show up with courage, empathy, and love.

    In this episode, you will hear:

    • Patrick McLain’s transition from Marine Corps officer to a successful law practice owner
    • The impact of military discipline and leadership on legal practice
    • Balancing family life and a demanding legal career
    • Importance of niching and creating a practice aligned with personal values
    • Mentoring young advocates and fostering the next generation
    • Utilizing technology to enhance efficiency and client interaction
    • Financial prudence, structured systems, and growth strategies in law firm management

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    Supporting Resources:

    • Patrick J. McLain https://www.patrickjmclain.com/our-team/patrick-j-mclain/
    • The Law Office of Patrick J. McLain https://www.patrickjmclain.com/
    • New Podcast Website https://atticusadvantage.com/podcast/
    • Interested in Our Upcoming Trial Lawyers Group? https://atticusadvantage.com/contact-us/

    If there’s a topic you would like us to cover on an upcoming episode, please email us at steve.riley@atticusadvantage.com.

    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.
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    36 mins
  • Remembering My Father and the Lessons That Last with Steve Riley | Ep. 147

    Remembering My Father and the Lessons That Last with Steve Riley | Ep. 147
    Sep 1 2025
    In this deeply personal solo episode of Great Practice, Great Life, host Steve Riley opens his heart to honor the memory of his father, Donald C. Riley. What unfolds is not just a tribute, but a vulnerable reflection on the man who shaped him through stories, lessons, and quiet acts of courage. While growing up, Steve’s home was filled with fables told by his father. Yet these weren’t just stories. They were lessons that last. Donald’s career as an FBI agent gave him no shortage of experiences. However, it was his gift for storytelling that left the deepest impression. From the Jake Leg story to the tale of Pete Rose, his words carried wisdom, teaching Steve (and now all of us) what resilience, integrity, and perseverance really mean. As Steve reflects, we hear more than just anecdotes, we feel the weight of his father’s choices. Donald lived a life that constantly balanced risk with purpose. His bold run for sheriff, his dedicated career as a private investigator, and his unwavering commitment to family reveal a man who chose courage over comfort, time and time again. Because of that, his stories became lessons passed down from father to son and now shared with us. For Steve, these lessons aren’t abstract. Instead, they shaped how he leads, how he lives, and how he shows up for others. By sharing them, he invites us to do the same: to take risks, to embrace failure as a teacher, to cherish our relationships, to honor our commitments, and to build a life rooted in gratitude. This episode isn’t polished or distant. On the contrary, it’s real. It’s emotional. It’s an invitation to reflect on your own stories. Think of the people who’ve shaped you, and the legacy you want to leave. When you listen, you’ll discover timeless wisdom and you’ll be reminded to make today count. Ask yourself: What are you committed to? What are you grateful for today? In this episode, you will hear: Tribute to Donald C. Riley, a seasoned FBI agentStorytelling as a tool for imparting life lessons and shaping personal and professional growthPersonal anecdotes like the Jake leg story and Pete Rose narrative for teaching discipline and perseveranceLessons in courage, failure, and taking risks illustrated through Steve’s father’s career transitionsEmphasis on the impact of small, consistent actions and nurturing relationshipsLifelong learning and the influence of Dale Carnegie’s principles on his father’s life and family legacy Subscribe & Review Never miss an episode. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube. ⭐Like what you hear? A quick review helps more people find the show.⭐ Supporting Resources: Donald Riley Obituary: obits.lohmanfuneralhomes.com/obituary/donald-rileySteve Riley, Shareholder, Practice Advisor, and Attorney: atticusadvantage.com/team/steve-rileyHow to Win Friends & Influence People by Dale Carnegie: www.amazon.com/How-Win-Friends-Influence-People/dp/0671027034Episode 124: A Deep Dive into How to Win Friends & Influence People: atticusadvantage.com/podcast/how-to-win-friends-influence-people-doug-burnettiMy Great Life Focus: atticusadvantage.com/books/my-great-life-focus If there’s a topic you would like us to cover on an upcoming episode, please email us at steve.riley@atticusadvantage.com. 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.
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    48 mins
  • The Client Upgrade System That Changes Everything with Chris Murphy | Ep. 146

    The Client Upgrade System That Changes Everything with Chris Murphy | Ep. 146
    Aug 25 2025
    What if upgrading your client base could transform not only your law practice but also your life? On this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, attorney Chris Murphy shares how he implemented a client upgrade system and it reshaped his practice and personal life. At first, Chris admits he was hesitant about some of the strategies suggested to him. Moving to flat fees? Saying no to certain clients? Narrowing his focus to a niche practice? It all felt risky. Yet once he committed, those choices became the very foundation of his growth. Chris opens up about what happened next: better clients, stronger cases, and a practice that finally aligned with the life he wanted to live. He explains how this client upgrade system wasn’t just about revenue, once he identified the “why” of doing what he does, that deeper purpose rippled out in both his work, community and his personal life. Together, Steve and Chris walk through a four-step process any lawyer can use to refine their practice. They show how to set meaningful goals and align them with the life you want. Chris explains how adopting flat-fee pricing simplified his practice. It reduced stress and created healthier client relationships. He also shares how shifting his focus outward changed everything. He moved from just managing cases to truly serving clients, teams, and his community. That shift helped his firm grow and gave him clarity, confidence, and balance in life. If you’ve ever wondered what might happen if you let go of the “old way” of practicing law and embraced new strategies, this conversation is your roadmap. Chris’s story proves that when you define your why and commit to bold changes, transformation follows — in your firm and far beyond it. In this episode, you will hear: Transforming law practice through strategic client upgrades and personal growthFour-step process for upgrading clients to enhance profitability and qualityEmbracing unconventional methods like flat fees and innovative pricing modelsImportance of establishing a niche and saying no to unsuitable workAligning personal and professional goals for a fulfilling and balanced lifeEmpowering teams by articulating a compelling “why” and value propositionOvercoming self-doubt, embracing change, and effective time management Subscribe & Review Never miss an episode. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube. ⭐Like what you hear? A quick review helps more people find the show.⭐ Supporting Resources: Chris Murphy: atticusadvantage.com/team/chris-murphyScalli Murphy Law, P.C.: www.scallimurphy.comDenise Cullen: atticusadvantage.com/team/denise-cullenMark Metzger: atticusadvantage.com/team/mark-metzgerThe Secrets to Becoming an 8-Figure Attorney with Craig Goldenfarb: atticusadvantage.com/podcast/the-secrets-to-becoming-an-8-figure-attorney-with-craig-goldenfarbReferral Marketing Secrets to Scale Your Law Firm with Craig Goldenfarb: atticusadvantage.com/podcast/referral-marketing-secretsThe Money-Making Power of Personal Relationships with Colleen Goldenfarb: atticusadvantage.com/podcast/money-making-personal-relationshipsGreenlights by Matthew McConaughey: www.amazon.com/Greenlights-Matthew-McConaughey/dp/0593139135My Great Life Focus: atticusadvantage.com/books/my-great-life-focus Subscribe to the Atticus NewsletterTeam Leader Certification Program: atticusadvantage.com/law-firm-team-leader-certificationWorkshop: A Roadmap for Law Firm and Personal Success Three Dates/Locations to Choose From: September 15 – Westlake Village, CA atticusadvantage.com/workshops/roadmap-for-success-091525 October 3 – Houston, TX atticusadvantage.com/workshops/roadmap-for-success-houston October 10 – Atlanta, GA atticusadvantage.com/workshops/roadmap-for-success-atlanta If there’s a topic you would like us to cover on an upcoming episode, please email us at steve.riley@atticusadvantage.com. 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.
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    1 hr
  • How the Every Monday Matters Mindset Can Reignite Your Law Practice with Matthew Emerzian | Ep. 145

    How the Every Monday Matters Mindset Can Reignite Your Law Practice with Matthew Emerzian | Ep. 145
    Aug 18 2025
    Nationally acclaimed author and founder of the Every Monday Matters movement, Matthew Emerzian, sits down with Steve Riley to have a conversation about purpose, connection, and building a life that truly matters. Matthew’s story did not begin with a breakdown. From the outside, it looked like he had it all. He lived in Beverly Hills, working in the music industry with world-famous bands like U2 and Coldplay. He traveled, enjoyed success, and was part of an exciting, fast-paced world. Then, one night after a blind date arranged by his parents’ best friends, he realized something that would change the course of his life. Despite the outward success, he had no real purpose or direction. That realization sent him searching for meaning. He began therapy, which he jokingly calls his “expensive friend,” and started exploring the idea of human-centered design. He wanted to understand how to design a life that put people first, starting with himself, extending to others, and reaching into his work and the world around him. This search led him to create Every Monday Matters, a movement that inspires people to live intentionally and remember that they matter. Over time, it grew into a global message: I matter, you matter, we matter. In this episode, Matthew and Steve explore how that philosophy can transform a law practice. They discuss how “Every Monday Matters” can guide client relationships, strengthen workplace culture, and influence leadership. They talk about why empathy, self-awareness, and kindness are not just good values, but essential tools for success. Matthew shares ways to integrate these values into daily habits so they create real change. He explains how living with intention can improve both personal fulfillment and professional impact. His message is clear: when you believe you matter, it changes how you show up for everyone around you. Matthew walked away from the high life to build a more meaningful one. Today, through Every Monday Matters, he helps people discover purpose in their own lives, one intentional choice at a time. Catch Matthew Emerzian live at this year’s Summit! Matthew will take the Summit stage as a keynote speaker with Human-Centered Leadership: How to Prioritize Mental Health, Increase Well-Being, and Mitigate Burnout Across High-Performing Teams. Drawing from his personal journey and his Every Monday Matters movement, Matthew will share The Mattering Mindset — a proven playbook for reducing burnout, building connection, and inspiring purpose-driven growth. You’ll leave with practical tools to create a thriving, people-centered organization where every person knows they matter. Join us for $300 off by using code KEYNOTE300 when registering! In this episode, you will hear: Matthew Emerzian’s inspiring story of founding the Every Monday Matters movement How the “You Matter” philosophy can influence professional practices, especially in law, and personal fulfillment Insights into the pressures of unmet life milestones and the role of mentorship for overcoming personal crises The power of mindsets like “I matter, you matter, we matter” in altering workplace dynamics and fostering positive cultures Human-centered leadership and empathy in creating supportive work environments How values like kindness and self-awareness can drive personal and organizational growth Practical resources, such as the “You Matter” book and a downloadable worksheet, to apply these concepts in everyday life and work A surprise from Matthew for Summit attendees who bring him their completed worksheet (linked in the Supporting Resources) Subscribe & Review Never miss an episode. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube. ⭐Like what you hear? A quick review helps more people find the show.⭐ Supporting Resources: Matthew Emerzian: www.matthewemerzian.comEvery Monday Matters: www.everymondaymatters.comMatthew on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-emerzianMatthew's email: matthew@everymondaymatters.comWorksheet: Your Integrated Mattering Plan: atticusadvantage.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/IntegratedMatteringPlan-MatthewEmerzian.pdfYou Matter: Learning to Love Who You Really Are by Matthew Emerzian: www.amazon.com/You-Matter-Learning-Love-Really/dp/B082T33YF5The Summit: atticussummit.com (Use discount code: KEYNOTE300 for $300 off!) Subscribe to the Atticus Newsletter If there’s a topic you would like us to cover on an upcoming episode, please email us at steve.riley@atticusadvantage.com. 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.
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    56 mins
  • Winning Takes a Positive Mindset with NHL Legend Grant Fuhr | Guest Host Jonathan White

    Winning Takes a Positive Mindset with NHL Legend Grant Fuhr | Guest Host Jonathan White
    Aug 11 2025

    On this episode of Great Practice, Great Life®, guest host Jonathan White sits down with NHL legend Grant Fuhr to explore how a positive mindset fueled his Hall of Fame career and continues to shape his life today.

    Best known as the goaltender behind the Edmonton Oilers dynasty, Grant Fuhr is a five-time Stanley Cup champion. He was a key force behind one of hockey’s greatest teams, known for his clutch performances and unmatched athleticism. Grant made history as the first African American inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame. Beyond the records, it was his resilience and positive mindset that fueled his rise, comeback, and success at the highest level.

    Throughout the conversation, Grant reveals how focusing only on what he could control became his formula for success. He shares the mental discipline it took to “eat the negative” and stay grounded through challenges. Grant opens up about bouncing back from injuries with determination and grit. His mindset shifts under pressure offer powerful lessons in resilience and long-term growth.

    Today, Grant continues to lead and inspire as a coach and mentor. His message is clear: success starts with mindset, and the ability to stay grounded, positive, and focused is what creates lasting impact—on the ice, in the courtroom, or anywhere in life.

    Whether you’re an athlete, entrepreneur, or attorney, this episode will leave you with tools to face challenges with grace, confidence, and a stronger sense of purpose.

    In this episode, you will hear:

    • Grant Fuhr's journey from legendary NHL goalie to mentor and coach
    • Overcoming challenges and maintaining positivity in both sports and life
    • Building a winning team culture and the role of leadership in success
    • The significance of resilience and mental fortitude for athletes
    • The impact of mentorship and coaching in sports and business
    • Embracing growth, adaptability, and personal development
    • Transitioning from player to coach and empowering others

    Stay Connected & Show Your Support:

    Never miss an episode—subscribe to Great Practice, Great Life!
    ⭐Like what you hear? A quick review helps more people find the show.⭐

    Supporting Resources:

    • Grant Fuhr NHL Stats: www.nhl.com/player/grant-fuhr-8446991
    • Grant Fuhr Hockey Hall of Fame: www.hhof.com/induction_archives/ind03fuhr.shtml
    • Jordan & White, LLC: jordanwhitellc.com
    • My Great Life Focus: atticusadvantage.com/books/my-great-life-focus
    • Practice Growth Diagnostic: atticusadvantage.com/practice-growth-diagnostic
    • Subscribe to the Atticus Newsletter
    • Path To a Great Practice and Great Life Workshop: atticusadvantage.com/workshops/the-path-to-a-great-practice-great-life/ (Use code: PODCAST500)

    If there’s a topic you would like us to cover on an upcoming episode, please email us at steve.riley@atticusadvantage.com.

    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.
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    49 mins
  • Rebuilding the Future of Family Law in an AI World with Gerard Virga

    Rebuilding the Future of Family Law in an AI World with Gerard Virga
    Aug 4 2025
    On this episode of Great Practice, Great Life®, Steve Riley sits down with family law attorney Gerard Virga to share a remarkable story of resilience, leadership, and reinvention. When Hurricane Michael destroyed Gerard’s law office in 2018, he didn’t pause or panic. Instead, the very next day, he started looking for a new space to work. Remarkably, that same day, he found a building still standing—and a landlord outside, willing to help. Gerard was offered a spot on the fifth floor, fully furnished and ready to go. As a result, just a few weeks later, in the middle of widespread devastation, his firm experienced one of its busiest Novembers ever. Families were struggling through custody issues, living in trailers, surrounded by debris, and trying to survive. Gerard knew he had to show up—for his clients, his team, and his family. That moment shifted everything. The crisis changed how Gerard viewed leadership and client service. He became more empathetic, more present, and more open. Because of this, he saw how important it was to lead with compassion and to run a firm that could adapt quickly. So, he started modernizing his systems. Eventually, he moved operations onto servers and into the cloud, stepping away from paper files entirely. Meanwhile, his sense of purpose extended beyond the office. After seeing firsthand how hard the storm had hit local families, Gerard’s wife, Mary, suggested they give back. Together, they created Operation Santa—a holiday initiative to bring joy to families who had lost everything. That experience became a turning point. More than anything, it reminded Gerard why this work matters. Now, as the legal landscape continues to evolve, Gerard is once again rebuilding. This time, he’s leaning into AI, not to replace attorneys, but to support them. His goal is to free up his lawyers so they can focus on what only humans can do: connect, advise, and advocate. AI can handle repetitive tasks. In turn, attorneys can spend more time building relationships and preparing for trial. Gerard sees that as the future of law, a people-centered profession powered by smart systems. Ultimately, he credits his resilience to the people who count on him: his wife, his kids, and his team. He believes true leadership means being willing to change for the better, especially when others are depending on you. This episode is for anyone who’s been knocked down and is ready to rebuild—smarter, stronger, and with purpose. In this episode, you will hear: Rebuilding a law firm after Hurricane Michael with resilience and strategic innovationImportance of understanding your “why” in building a meaningful legal practiceEmbracing AI technology to modernize client communication and enhance firm operations“Operation Santa” initiative led by Gerard Virga’s wife to support hurricane-affected familiesChallenges of managing a law firm with a hybrid model and remote workforceThe evolving role of AI in legal practice, focusing on enhancing human interactions rather than replacing themPersonal connections and integrity in navigating family law and building client trust Stay Connected & Show Your Support: Never miss an episode—subscribe to Great Practice, Great Life! ⭐Like what you hear? A quick review helps more people find the show.⭐ Supporting Resources: Gerard Virga: www.thevirgalawfirm.com/our-team/gerard-virgaThe Virga Law Firm: www.thevirgalawfirm.comPodcast: Florida Family Law Attorney: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-florida-family-law-attorney-podcast/id1799493137Episode 137: Grow or Die: John Morgan’s Relentless Strategy for Law Firm Expansion – Part 1: atticusadvantage.com/podcast/grow-or-die-john-morganEpisode 138: Leading Lions and Prima Donnas: John Morgan’s Leadership Lessons – Part 2: atticusadvantage.com/podcast/leadership-lessons-john-morganThe Summit: atticussummit.comSubscribe to the Atticus Newsletter: atticusadvantage.com/newsletterGrow Your Practice With AI Workshop: https://atticusadvantage.com/workshops/grow-your-law-practice-with-ai/ If there’s a topic you would like us to cover on an upcoming episode, please email us at steve.riley@atticusadvantage.com. 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.
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    58 mins
  • Stop Hiding Behind the Law: Leading with Truth with Ronald W. Chapman II

    Stop Hiding Behind the Law: Leading with Truth with Ronald W. Chapman II
    Jul 28 2025
    On this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Steve talks with attorney Ronald W. Chapman II, who shares his powerful journey from the battlefield to the courtroom. A former Marine Corps JAG officer, Ronald opens up about how his military service shaped not just his legal skill set but also his mindset. The idea of not using the law as a shield became a defining part of his growth as a leader. His transition from a highly structured military environment to the unpredictable world of private practice taught him that true impact comes from embracing purpose, taking ownership, and leading with vision. Ronald’s journey didn’t start in a courtroom—it began with a decision sparked by 9/11. While studying law, he felt the pull to serve. His Marine Corps recruiter advised him to finish law school and return as an officer, and that is what he did. That moment changed everything for Ronald. His legal career is rooted in precision, principle, and purpose. He began by investigating battlefield decisions in Afghanistan. Later, he defended healthcare professionals in high-stakes litigation. Leaving the military brought a new challenge: adjusting to civilian legal practice. No one prepares you for that transition, and Ronald had to find his own way. He joined his father’s law firm and quickly became a key part of its growth and direction. His background in philosophy helped him shift from pure strategy to powerful storytelling. In the courtroom, he created space where empathy meets advocacy. Today, Ronald plays a major role in a multi-state law firm, and his approach stands out in the legal field. He focuses his time where it matters most and delegates everything he can. He also notes that listening to what others were saying—and doing what they didn’t want to—led him to specialize in healthcare defense. Choosing an area of law others avoid gave him a strategic edge and helped the firm grow. This episode isn’t just about firm growth—it’s about identity. Ronald talks candidly about the emotional weight of litigation, the mental shift from technician to visionary, and the power of mindfulness. He credits creative outlets like working out and writing to help him stay grounded, and emphasizes that strong leadership requires knowing when to step back—not just push harder. Ronald’s story challenges legal professionals to stop using the law as a shield, to lead with courage, embrace the human side of practice, and build something sustainable. This conversation is a reminder that your story, your mission, and your mindset matter just as much as your legal skills. In this episode, you will hear: Ronald Chapman’s transition from a Marine Corps JAG officer to playing a key role in a multi-state law firmAligning personal mission with professional vision and the importance of niching in legal practiceChallenges and strategies in managing a healthcare-focused law practiceLessons on delegation, innovation, and leadership drawn from military experienceThe role of strategic connections and niche focus in expanding legal influenceHumanizing legal defense and the significance of personal narratives in courtBalancing leadership responsibilities with self-care and personal well-being Stay Connected & Show Your Support: Never miss an episode—subscribe to Great Practice, Great Life! ⭐Like what you hear? A quick review helps more people find the show.⭐ Supporting Resources: Ronald W. Chapman II: ronaldwchapman.comChapman Law Group: www.chapmanlawgroup.comTruth and Persuasion: In the Digital Revolution by Ronald W. Chapman II: www.amazon.com/Truth-Persuasion-Revolution-Ronald-Chapman-ebook/dp/B0DNDC6G4NFight the Feds: Unraveling Federal Criminal Investigations by Ronald W. Chapman II: www.amazon.com/Fight-Feds-Unraveling-Criminal-Investigations-ebook/dp/B09PPTG1MGRonald's YouTube: www.youtube.com/@RonaldChapmanIIChapman Law Group YouTube: www.youtube.com/@ChapmanLawGroupAudio Pen: audiopen.aiSubscribe to the Atticus Newsletter: atticusadvantage.com/newsletter/?utm_campaign=newsletter&utm_source=Podcast&utm_medium=cpc&utm_content=ad&utm_term=naOur Great Life™ Couples Workshop: atticusadvantage.com/workshops/our-great-life-couples-workshop Discount code: COUPLES500 for $500 offEp 136: The Biggest Marketing Mistakes Lawyers Make and How to Fix Them with Robert Rose: atticusadvantage.com/podcast/marketing-mistakes-lawyers-make-with-robert-roseJoin the Trial Lawyers Group: atticusadvantage.com/contact-us If there’s a topic you would like us to cover on an upcoming episode, please email us at steve.riley@atticusadvantage.com. 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.
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    1 hr and 4 mins