On Record PR

Eric Dodson Greenberg, Executive Vice President, General Counsel, and Corporate Secretary of Cox Media Group, joins Jennifer Simpson Carr and Maria Aronson for a conversation about AI, value, client relationships, and the future of legal judgment. From pricing pressure and transparency to associate training and business development, Eric explains why AI should open the door to a deeper conversation about value. 

Following the Legal Marketing Association Annual Conference, Gina Rubel, Jennifer Simpson Carr, and Maria Aronson discuss what this moment of transformation really means for law firms. From AI-driven disruption to shifting client expectations, this episode explores how law firm leaders must move beyond awareness and begin operationalizing change. They also explore why leadership, agility, and strategic communications are now central to firm survival and long-term relevance.

As law firms produce more content than ever, audiences are becoming more selective with their time. In this episode, International Faculty member Valerie Madamba joins Jennifer Simpson Carr to discuss the shift from information delivery to experience design. They explore why traditional presentations fall short and how firms can create meaningful, engaging interactions that clients actually value.

For years, law firms have debated whether the billable hour would change. That question is no longer theoretical; it is happening. In this episode, Gina Rubel and Jennifer Simpson Carr explore how client expectations, AI-driven efficiency, and economic pressure are reshaping how firms define value, structure pricing, and lead through transformation.

Artificial intelligence is no longer a future conversation for law firms; it is already reshaping how legal work gets done. In this episode, Gina Rubel and Jennifer Simpson Carr discuss insights from several recent legal industry conferences, exploring how AI is shifting the value of legal services toward strategic judgment, why firms must rethink processes before adopting new technology, and how talent development must evolve.

In this episode, Gina Rubel and Jennifer Simpson Carr reflect on the CCBJ Women in Business & Law Conference and unpack a timely case study involving AI company Anthropic and the U.S. Department of Defense. They explore the growing tension between what is lawful and what is defensible, and why values-based positioning is becoming a strategic imperative for law firm leaders.

Gina Rubel and Jennifer Simpson Carr break down three shifts reshaping the legal market: selective pricing power, fragmented client loyalty, and the growing AI credibility gap. From premium rates for high-stakes work to clients unbundling spend and demanding proof of innovation, this conversation offers law firm leaders a practical lens for 2026 decision-making.

One of the greatest risks in a law firm merger has nothing to do with structure, scale, or strategy. It is how the merger is communicated. In this episode, Gina Rubel and Jennifer Simpson Carr explain why merger communications have become a core leadership responsibility, shaping trust, talent retention, and client confidence long before a deal is ever announced.

As generative AI reshapes search, newswires are no longer simply distribution tools; they are authority signals. In this episode, Sarah Larson joins Jennifer Simpson Carr to discuss how trusted, high-domain sources influence generative engine results, why consistent presence matters more than clicks, and how law firms can future-proof visibility by feeding machines the right information.

As firms enter 2026, many of last year's pressures haven't disappeared—they've intensified. In this episode of On Record PR, Gina Rubel and Jennifer Simpson Carr examine what law firm leaders are already grappling with: flexibility that must translate into action, talent shifts reshaping culture, and AI's growing impact on pricing, leadership, and client trust. This is a conversation about priorities, not predictions—and the cost of standing still.

Gina Rubel and Jennifer Simpson Carr break down PR Daily's top five trends for 2026 and translate them into practical implications for the legal industry. They explore how narrative intelligence, GEO, AI monitoring, video, and data governance intersect with crisis preparedness, business development, talent recruitment, and long-term reputation management.

In this episode of On Record PR, Gina Rubel goes on record with Maria Feeley, the Chief Legal Officer of Washington and Lee University, to discuss the important role of the general counsel in times of crisis and GC's expectations of outside counsel.

Director of Media Relations Becky Bergman joins Jennifer Simpson Carr to discuss how PR and media strategy are evolving in the era of AI. From newsroom changes to AI-driven research, they explore what law firms must do to strengthen visibility, credibility, and discoverability. Becky shares actionable steps firms can take this week to future-proof their media strategy.

To mark episode 200, host Jennifer Simpson Carr is joined by teammates Kim Miller, Mahalet Ropar, and Kyla Thompson to discuss top takeaways from LMA's 2025 TWxSW Conference. They explore GEO and gated content, breaking down silos, responsible AI adoption, evolving pricing models, and a powerful fireside chat on the rule of law.

From the C.O.P.E.S. method to "rules and tools," Gina Rubel and Jennifer Simpson Carr unpack what really moves the needle: speaking invites, media citations, backlinks, and peer referrals. Plus, a 5-step framework to activate authentic advocates without adding to the billable hour burden.

From the reality that 95% of decisions are driven by emotion to the rise of nano-influencers and ethical AI, Gina Rubel and Jennifer Simpson Carr give law firm leaders practical steps to build credibility, manage risk, and convert digital trust into business outcomes.

Fresh off the Women, Influence & Power in Law Conference, hosts Gina Rubel and Jennifer Simpson Carr discuss a core theme reshaping the profession: in an AI-accelerated world, relationships are the differentiator. From client trust and judgment to reverse mentorship and "clear is kind" communication, they share a practical framework and rituals leaders can use to retain clients and talent.

Deb Ruffins, a member of Furia Rubel's International Faculty, returns to On Record PR to continue the conversation on why law firms must evolve beyond the billable hour. In this episode, she and Jennifer Simpson Carr explore how leaders can break down silos, incentivize collaboration, and implement accountability systems that drive sustainable growth and stronger client relationships.

Former Big Law CMO and International Faculty member Deb Ruffins joins Jennifer Simpson Carr to examine the future of the billable hour. They explore why clients are pushing for new models, the risks firms face if they remain locked into traditional metrics, and how attorneys can shift from service providers to trusted business partners.

Leslie Richards returns to demystify Google's knowledge panels —what they are, why they matter, and how they intersect with GEO (generative engine optimization). They unpack how panels signal authority to both humans and AI, the realistic limits of "optimization," and the practical steps attorneys can take now to build credibility before anyone clicks.

Leslie Richards joins Jennifer Simpson Carr to demystify GEO—generative engine optimization—and its impact on law firm marketing. From zero-click results to authority signals across the digital ecosystem, they unpack how AI summaries cite sources and what that means for traffic, reputation, and referrals.  

From AVEs to attribution dashboards, law firms often struggle to prove the ROI of public and media relations. Jennifer Simpson Carr and Sarah Larson discuss why the most meaningful outcomes—trust, reputation, and credibility—can't always be measured in clicks. They share strategies for reframing PR success, identifying alternative metrics, and helping law firm leaders recognize the long-term business value of communications.

From Am Law 50 in-office mandates to firms doubling down on virtual models, RTO is reshaping culture, collaboration, mentorship, and talent retention across the legal industry. In this episode, Gina and Jennifer share strategies for transparent communication, defining benefits clearly, and building internal champions to drive buy-in during this pivotal shift.

In this follow-up to last week's On Record PR episode on partner leadership, host Jennifer Simpson Carr sits down again with Mark Beese, leadership consultant and member of Furia Rubel's International Faculty, to focus on the next generation of law firm leaders, including senior associates, junior partners, and rising stars preparing to take on leadership roles.

International Faculty member Mark Beese discusses the need for partner-level leadership development in today's volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous (VUCA) environment. Mark shares his perspective on the lack of formal leadership training in law firms, the real costs of that gap for engagement and retention, and practical ways firms can build leadership capacity to meet the challenges of today.

Katayun Jaffari, Chancellor of the Philadelphia Bar Association, discusses Meeting the Moment, a movement mobilizing lawyers to defend democracy, safeguard judicial independence, and expand access to justice amid escalating political polarization and legal uncertainty.

Leslie Richards and Isabelle Horan break down AI agents—what they are, how they differ from other popular AI tools, and why they're set to transform workflows across industries, including law. They also share practical ways professionals can prepare now to remain relevant and valuable in a rapidly changing landscape.

Building on last week's DigiMarCon 2025 recap, Leslie Richards and Isabelle Horan unpack the evolution from traditional Search Engine Optimization (SEO) to Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) and what that means for law firms today.

Leslie Richards and Isabelle Horan share key takeaways from the 2025 DigiMarCon Conference, including how law firms can move beyond basic content generation and instead use generative AI tools for advanced strategic applications.

In this replay, Phil Goldberg, Office Managing Partner at Shook, Hardy & Bacon, joins Gina Rubel to discuss the importance of messaging and narrative in litigation. They explore how public relations, litigation funding, and interdisciplinary collaboration shape outcomes both inside and outside the courtroom.

Digital strategy expert Leslie Richards joins Gina Rubel to explore the seismic shift brought on by zero-click searches and AI-generated summaries. They break down how law firms can still rise to the top without traditional click-throughs by becoming trusted sources for AI results in tools like Google and ChatGPT. 

Former presidential speechwriter and author of Say It Well, Terry Szuplat, joins Gina Rubel to discuss the power of authentic communication in high-stakes environments. From his behind-the-scenes lessons working with President Obama to his candid reflections on overcoming a fear of public speaking, Terry shares practical wisdom for leaders, lawyers, and communicators.

Sarah Larson joins Jennifer Simpson Carr to discuss how law firm leaders should communicate in the wake of high-profile legal rulings like Ames v. Ohio. They explore the impact of fear-driven headlines, how to avoid reactionary messaging, and why alignment with firm values must drive both internal and external responses.

Eric Meyer, founding partner of Pierson Ferdinand, joins Gina Rubel to discuss the Supreme Court's unanimous decision in Ames v. Ohio Department of Youth Services and its implications for all employers, including law firms. They discuss how the ruling affects Title VII compliance, the future of DEI efforts, and the importance of consistent, merit-based employment practices. Eric offers practical guidance for minimizing legal risk while reinforcing fairness and accountability in hiring, promotion, and internal investigations.

Sarah Larson and Elizabeth Ogilvie join Jennifer Simpson Carr to discuss how law firms can navigate the evolving legal and political landscape surrounding Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. They share practical strategies for assessing and adapting ERG policies, emphasizing the importance of transparency, clear documentation, and internal collaboration.

Elizabeth Catterall Ogilvie joins Jennifer Simpson Carr to unpack SHRM's newly introduced BEAM Framework—Belonging Enhanced by Access through Merit—and what it means for law firms navigating today's diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) landscape. They discuss the five BEAM questions, explore how merit-based inclusion can strengthen talent strategies, and share how law firms can evolve their DEI programs in light of recent executive orders and court decisions.

Gina Rubel and Jennifer Simpson Carr explore one of the most sensitive challenges law firms face: managing public and media communications during litigation. From defending global brands to navigating precedent-setting cases, they discuss why early engagement with communications professionals is essential, how to strike the right balance between legal accuracy and public clarity, and why "no comment" is never the right response.

Gina Rubel and Jennifer Simpson Carr examine what the ruling in favor of Perkins Coie and this year's powerful Law Day of Action mean for every law firm. From politically motivated executive orders to renewed commitments to uphold the Constitution, they discuss how law firm leaders must prepare for reputational risks, align legal and communications strategy, and defend the rule of law in an era of unprecedented scrutiny.

Gina Rubel and Jennifer Simpson Carr unpack what clients are truly looking for from their outside counsel today, drawing directly from the candid insights shared during last week's General Counsel panel at the Legal Marketing Association's International Conference. They explore five critical themes that every law firm should understand to strengthen client loyalty, grow relationships, and win new business.

As legal professionals gather in Washington, D.C. for a packed week of industry conferences, including the 40th anniversary of the Legal Marketing Association, Gina Rubel and Jennifer Simpson Carr take a candid look at what it means to show up authentically during turbulent times.

Gina Rubel is joined by immigration law attorney Wendy Castor Hess to unpack the current state of U.S. immigration policy and what it means for travelers, visa holders, and green card holders in 2025. With new executive orders in place and heightened enforcement at U.S. ports of entry, the episode explores how these changes are affecting universities, corporations, and individuals alike.

Gina Rubel and Jennifer Carr reflect on key insights from Legalweek 2025, focusing on how law firms must adapt to meet the expectations of today's legal buyers. From the rise of millennial buyers prioritizing trust and transparency over cost, to the demand for predictive pricing, multidisciplinary teams, and outcome-based value, the conversation explores how firms can evolve to remain competitive. They also tackle the "million-dollar problem" of associate attrition, the strategic use of data for DEI and talent development, and the importance of including business professionals in client-facing conversations. Grounded in the realities of today's legal and political climate, this episode challenges firms to rethink the business of law with courage, creativity, and client-centricity.

In this episode, Gina Rubel and Jennifer Carr reflect on their experiences at Legalweek and discuss the evolving implications of recent executive orders targeting law firms. The conversation covers the controversy surrounding decisions made by major firms and the broader legal industry's response.

In this episode of On Record PR, Gina Rubel and Jennifer Simpson Carr explore how law firm leaders can proactively navigate crisis planning amid uncertain times, addressing the impact of recent executive orders on the legal industry.

In this episode of On Record PR, Jennifer Simpson Carr and Sarah Larson discuss recent political attacks on law firms and the rule of law, emphasizing the importance of firms articulating their core values in internal and external communications.

In this episode of On Record PR, Jennifer Simpson Carr and Elizabeth Ogilvie discuss the growing threat to law firm diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs in light of recent executive orders.

In this episode of On Record PR, Gina Rubel and Jennifer Simpson Carr go on record to discuss the top issues surrounding when law firms become political targets in 2025.

In this episode of On Record PR, Jennifer Simpson Carr, Vice President of Strategic Development, speaks with Brenda Plowman, a member of Furia Rubel's International Faculty, about a topic that can make or break a law firm's credibility: public statements.

In this episode of On Record PR, Jennifer Simpson Carr discusses important considerations for choosing the right agency partner for your firm.

In this episode of On Record PR, Jennifer Simpson Carr speaks with Furia Rubel Executive Vice President Sarah Larson about managing the message when an MVP partner leaves a firm.