PODCAST · business
A Different Practice
by ADifferentPractice.com
How do I build a solo law practice that doesn’t lead to burnout? How do I break free of the traditional, one-size-fits-all idea of being a lawyer? How do I create a sustainable, fulfilling, and profitable practice?If you’re ready to free yourself of the legal profession’s antiquated approach and build a better solo practice, this podcast is for you.A Different Practice is a business and well-being podcast for solo and semi-solo attorneys looking for actionable strategies to earn more and work less. It's hosted by Lauren Lester, an active solo attorney in Colorado. adifferentpractice.substack.com
Episodes
-
Creating a Subscription Service: How to Run a Law Firm in 2025
In this bonus episode of How to Run a Law Firm in 2025, Mathew Kerbis and I dive into one of the most talked-about topics in modern legal services—subscription models. Mathew walked me through how subscriptions can be structured for different practice areas, including estate planning, and offered...
-
Parenthood and Entrepreneurship: How to Run a Law Firm in 2025
In the eighteenth episode of How to Run a Law Firm in 2025, Mathew Kerbis and I got personal. We talked about what it’s really like to run a law firm and a household, especially as parents. We shared how we navigate the demands of our practices while being present for our families and the systems...
-
The 6-Step System for Guilt-Free Time Off
When was your last real vacation? Not a “replying to client emails under a beach umbrella” kind of break, but an actual, restorative, inbox-free escape. If that question makes your eye twitch, this episode is for you. I’m walking you through the exact 6-step system I use to plan and take real...
-
SOPs: How to Run a Law Firm in 2025
In the seventeenth episode of How to Run a Law Firm in 2025, Mathew Kerbis and I talked all about one of the most underrated tools for solo and small firm success—standard operating procedures or SOPs. I’ll be honest: we both initially resisted creating SOPs. They can feel tedious and...
-
What I Do When Someone Doesn’t Hire Me (and Why You Should Too)
Your micro-episode for tested strategies that actually work in solo practice. Get proven solutions delivered straight to your inbox for free at adifferentpractice.com/subscribe. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit...
-
Outsourcing: How to Run a Law Firm in 2025
In the sixteenth episode of How to Run a Law Firm in 2025, Mathew Kerbis and I explored a big growth topic for solos and small firm owners—outsourcing. We talked about how to decide what to outsource, the benefits it can bring to your business (and your sanity), and the practical challenges that...
-
The Surprising Power of No-Agenda Checkins
Your micro-episode for tested strategies that actually work in solo practice. Get proven solutions delivered straight to your inbox for free at adifferentpractice.com/subscribe. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit...
-
86: Building a Law Practice That Supports Your Life with Gordon Firemark
What if your law practice could actually support the life you want instead of consuming it? In this episode, I sit down with Gordon Firemark—aka "The Podcast Lawyer"—who's proof that you can build a thriving solo practice without selling your soul to billable hours. Gordon shares how his…
more -
The Client Who Hired Me Because I DON’T Work on Fridays
Your micro-episode for tested strategies that actually work in solo practice. Get proven solutions delivered straight to your inbox for free at adifferentpractice.com/subscribe. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit...
-
Costs: How to Run a Law Firm in 2025
In the fifteenth episode of How to Run a Law Firm in 2025, Mathew Kerbis and I tackled a topic every solo and small firm owner should be thinking about—how to keep costs low without sacrificing quality. We shared the ways we’ve intentionally kept expenses down by handling things like bookkeeping,...
-
Finances: How to Run a Law Firm in 2025
In this episode, Mathew Kerbis and I dive into the real-world side of law firm finances—budgeting, managing cash flow, and making smart money decisions. We share how we approach tracking expenses, the Profit First method, and maximizing credit card rewards. We also cover important topics like...
-
84: How Do You Know You're Winning?
Your micro-episode for tested strategies that actually work in solo practice. Get proven solutions delivered straight to your inbox for free at adifferentpractice.com/subscribe. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit...
-
83: Batch Like a Boss: How to Film a Month of YouTube Content in One Afternoon
Struggling to stay consistent with your marketing because who has the time, right? In this episode, I’m breaking down the exact system I use to create an entire month of YouTube content in one afternoon—without a production team, fancy equipment, or endless retakes. You’ll learn:✔️ How to create…
more -
82: Too Much on Your Plate? Try This Simple Trick.
Your micro-episode for tested strategies that actually work in solo practice. Get proven solutions delivered straight to your inbox for free at adifferentpractice.com/subscribe. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit...
-
81: What to Do When Business is Slow (Besides Panic)
Your micro-episode for tested strategies that actually work in solo practice. Get proven solutions delivered straight to your inbox for free at adifferentpractice.com/subscribe. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit...
-
80: Why Your Calendar is Killing Your Practice (and How to Fix It)
Is your calendar punishing you? Discover the Life-First Framework that's helping solo attorneys reclaim their time while increasing productivity and profits. In this episode, we’ll tackle the uncomfortable truth about how your calendar reveals your real priorities—and how a simple shift can...
-
79: 12 Questions That Will Transform Your Consultations
Your micro-episode for tested strategies that actually work in solo practice. Get proven solutions delivered straight to your inbox for free at adifferentpractice.com/subscribe. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit...
-
78: 5 Critical Settings Your Online Calendar System Needs
Your micro-episode for tested strategies that actually work in solo practice. Get proven solutions delivered straight to your inbox for free at adifferentpractice.com/subscribe. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit...
-
77: Why You're Undercharging (and How to Fix It) with Nicky Billou
Ever feel like you're working too hard for too little? This week, I'm diving deep with thought leadership expert Nicky Billou on how to transform your practice from constant hustle to consistent flow. Nicky shares the exact process that helped one attorney go from making $70,000 a year to $50,000…
more -
76: Why I Start My Workday at 10:30 AM
Your micro-episode for tested strategies that actually work in solo practice. Get proven solutions delivered straight to your inbox for free at adifferentpractice.com/subscribe. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit...
-
75: The Solo Attorney's Secret Weapon (It's Not What You Think)
Your micro-episode for tested strategies that actually work in solo practice. Get proven solutions delivered straight to your inbox at adifferentpractice.com/subscribe. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit...
-
74: The Solo Attorney's Guide to Unhappy Clients
Ever received that dreaded “We need to talk” email from a client? In this candid episode, I share how a single phone call transformed my relationship with a furious client and taught me an invaluable lesson about connection over correction. Whether you’re a solo attorney struggling with client...
-
74: The Solo Attorney's Guide to Unhappy Clients
Ever received that dreaded "We need to talk" email from a client? In this candid episode, I share how a single phone call transformed my relationship with a furious client and taught me an invaluable lesson about connection over correction. Whether you're a solo attorney struggling with client...
-
73: Why I Turned Down a "Dream" Client
Your micro-episode for tested strategies that actually work in solo practice. Get proven solutions delivered straight to your inbox at adifferentpractice.com/subscribe. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit...
-
Pricing Legal Services: How to Run a Law Firm in 2025
In this episode of How to Run a Law Firm in 2025, Mathew Kerbis and I took on one of the biggest challenges for solo and small firm owners—pricing. We talked about why clinging to the billable hour might actually be holding your practice back and explored more modern, sustainable ways to price...
-
72: 6 Things I know in year 9 I wish I had known in year 1
Your micro-episode for tested strategies that actually work in solo practice. Get proven solutions delivered straight to your inbox at adifferentpractice.com/subscribe. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit...
-
AI (Part 2): How to Run a Law Firm in 2025
In this episode of How to Run a Law Firm in 2025, Mathew Kerbis and I are back with part two of our deep dive into AI tools—this time exploring how AI can help you manage your knowledge base, streamline research, and even keep an eye on your professional reputation. We shared how tools like...
-
71: How to Get More Client Reviews (and Handle Bad Ones Like a Pro)
Ever spent 45 minutes reading reviews for a $12 phone charger? If we're doing that for trivial purchases, imagine what potential clients are doing when choosing something as important as their attorney. In this episode, I break down why social proof isn't just important—it's everything in your...
-
70: 5 Hidden TextExpander Features That Will Save You Hours Each Week
Your micro-episode for tested strategies that actually work in solo practice. Get proven solutions delivered straight to your inbox at adifferentpractice.com/subscribe. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit...
-
AI (Part 1): How to Run a Law Firm in 2025
In this episode of How to Run a Law Firm in 2025, Mathew Kerbis and I kicked off part one of our deep dive into AI tools and how solos like us can use them to enhance—not replace—the human side of our practices. We talked about how AI can streamline your workflow and improve efficiency without...
-
69: 3 TED Talks You Have To Watch To Learn About Goal Setting
Your micro-episode for tested strategies that actually work in solo practice. Get proven solutions delivered straight to your inbox at adifferentpractice.com/subscribe. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit...
-
Software (Part 2): How to Run a Law Firm in 2025
In this episode of How to Run a Law Firm in 2025, Mathew Kerbis and I wrapped up our deep dive into essential law firm software with part two—focusing on the tools that keep your practice running smoothly behind the scenes. We covered everything from legal document databases to marketing…
more -
68: The SEO Secrets Every Lawyer Should Know with Brandon Lebowitz
Unlock the mystery of SEO without drowning in technicalities. In this episode, SEO expert Brandon Liebowitz breaks down why search engine optimization isn't just a buzzword—it's your secret weapon for getting clients without burning through your marketing budget. Having leveraged SEO to build my...
-
67: How I'd Set Up a Guaranteed Profitable Practice
Your micro-episode for tested strategies that actually work in solo practice. Get proven solutions delivered straight to your inbox atadifferentpractice.com/subscribe. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit...
-
Software (Part 1): How to Run a Law Firm in 2025
In this episode of How to Run a Law Firm in 2025, Mathew Kerbis and I kicked off part one of our deep dive into the software every solo and small firm owner should know about. We shared the tools we actually use in our own practices—what’s been worth the investment and what you can skip…
more -
66: Stress ≠ Success
Your micro-episode for tested strategies that actually work in solo practice. Get proven solutions delivered straight to your inbox atadifferentpractice.com/subscribe. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit...
-
Hardware (Part 2): How to Run a Law Firm 2025
In this episode of How to Run a Law Firm in 2025, Mathew Kerbis and I are back with part two of our deep dive into essential law firm hardware—this time focusing on how to level up your audio and video setup without blowing your budget. We went beyond the basics to share what really makes a...
-
65: Breaking the Yes Habit: A Lawyer's Guide to Saying “No”
As lawyers and entrepreneurs, we're wired to seize every opportunity – but what if saying 'no' could be your most powerful business strategy? In this episode, I dive deep into why saying 'no' feels so impossible, especially for legal professionals, and how to transform this challenge into a...
-
64: How I Cut My Drafting Time By 90%
Your micro-episode for tested strategies that actually work in solo practice. Get proven solutions delivered straight to your inbox at adifferentpractice.com/subscribe. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit...
-
Hardware (Part 1): How to Run a Law Firm in 2025
In this episode of How to Run a Law Firm in 2025, Mathew Kerbis and I kicked off part one of our deep dive into a topic that doesn’t get nearly enough attention—your hardware setup. We shared how we each built tech-enabled practices, from basic setups to more advanced configurations, and why the...
-
63: How I Doubled My Client Reviews in 10 months (Without Begging)
Your micro-episode for tested strategies that actually work in solo practice. Get proven solutions delivered straight to your inbox at adifferentpractice.com/subscribe. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit...
-
Evaluating Tech: How to Run a Law Firm in 2025
In the sixth episode of How to Run a Law Firm in 2025, Mathew Kerbis and I dove into one of the hottest (and sometimes most overwhelming) topics for solos—how to evaluate and choose the right technology for your practice. We talked about how easy it is to fall into “shiny object syndrome,”…
more -
Evaluating Tech: How to Run a Law Firm in 2025
In the sixth episode of How to Run a Law Firm in 2025, Lauren and Mathew discuss how they evaluate and discover new technology for their practices. They emphasize the importance of identifying specific needs before adopting new tech tools and warn against “shiny object syndrome.” They also…
more -
62: The Power of Authenticity: Transforming Your Legal Career from the Inside Out with Andrea Johnson
What if the biggest impact on your law practice had nothing to do with business strategies or marketing? In this enlightening episode, leadership coach Andrea Johnson reveals how understanding and honoring your core values can transform your legal career. We dive deep into the difference between...
-
61: Don’ts and Dos: Overhead Costs
Your micro-episode for tested strategies that actually work in solo practice. Get proven solutions delivered straight to your inbox at adifferentpractice.com/subscribe. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit...
-
Marketing: How to Run a Law Firm in 2025
In the fifth episode of How to Run a Law Firm in 2025, Mathew Kerbis and I tackled a challenge every lawyer faces—how to pitch your services without sounding like, well…a lawyer. We talked about the struggle of crafting a great elevator pitch, especially when you have more than one practice area....
-
Marketing: How to Run a Law Firm in 2025
In the fifth episode of How to Run a Law Firm in 2025, Lauren and Mathew discuss strategies for pitching legal services and creating marketing materials. They explore the challenges of crafting effective elevator pitches, particularly when handling multiple practice areas. Throughout the...
-
60: The 3 Finance Books Solo Lawyers Should to Read
Your micro-episode for tested strategies that actually work in solo practice. Get proven solutions delivered straight to your inbox at adifferentpractice.com/subscribe. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit...
-
Finding Clients: How to Run a Law Firm in 2025
In the fourth episode of How to Run a Law Firm in 2025, Mathew Kerbis and I dove into one of my favorite topics—law firm marketing and how to actually get clients. We shared the strategies we use to manage that all-important first client contact, from streamlining online scheduling to making sure...
-
Finding Clients: How to Run a Law Firm in 2025
In the fourth episode of How to Run a Law Firm in 2025, Lauren and Mathew discuss their approaches to law firm marketing and client acquisition. They share their strategies for managing initial client contact, emphasizing the importance of streamlined processes like online scheduling and clear...
We're indexing this podcast's transcripts for the first time — this can take a minute or two. We'll show results as soon as they're ready.
No matches for "" in this podcast's transcripts.
No topics indexed yet for this podcast.
Loading reviews...
ABOUT THIS SHOW
How do I build a solo law practice that doesn’t lead to burnout? How do I break free of the traditional, one-size-fits-all idea of being a lawyer? How do I create a sustainable, fulfilling, and profitable practice?If you’re ready to free yourself of the legal profession’s antiquated approach and build a better solo practice, this podcast is for you.A Different Practice is a business and well-being podcast for solo and semi-solo attorneys looking for actionable strategies to earn more and work less. It's hosted by Lauren Lester, an active solo attorney in Colorado.
adifferentpractice.substack.com
HOSTED BY
ADifferentPractice.com
Loading similar podcasts...
Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does A Different Practice have?
A Different Practice currently has 114 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is A Different Practice about?
How do I build a solo law practice that doesn’t lead to burnout? How do I break free of the traditional, one-size-fits-all idea of being a lawyer? How do I create a sustainable, fulfilling, and profitable practice?If you’re ready to free yourself of the legal profession’s antiquated approach and...
How often does A Different Practice release new episodes?
A Different Practice publishes regularly with 114 episodes available. Check the episode list for the typical release schedule.
Where can I listen to A Different Practice?
You can listen to A Different Practice on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts A Different Practice?
A Different Practice is created and hosted by ADifferentPractice.com.
URL copied to clipboard!