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Episode 3: Business Development for Lawyers: The Power of Connections and Storytelling with Steve Fretzin

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Steve Fretzin is an author, podcast host, and “business development therapist.” He coaches and trains lawyers in the most modern-day business development skills, providing precise tips, fresh ideas and actionable tasks that drive tangible results. In this episode, we talk with Steve about the importance of connections, storytelling, and differentiation in a competitive landscape. 

Key Takeaways

  1. Business development is essential for lawyer independence because it allows them to control their professional paths, whether transitioning firms, seeking leadership roles, or securing their financial future. 
  2. Focusing on authenticity and relationship-building instead of sales is a more effective way to build clientele. 
  3. Lawyer coaching and training is often forgotten, but necessary so attorneys can develop their skills effectively. 
  4. Group classes are a great way for attorneys to inspire and validate others by sharing their successes, creating a supportive environment for growth. 
  5. The primary barrier to business development isn’t competition among coaches—it’s lawyers' resistance to change or lack of engagement. 

Timestamps

00:10 Host Introduction 

00:56 Guest Introduction: Steve Fretzin 

01:43 How Steve Earned His Nicknames 

02:26 About Steve’s Podcast: Be That Lawyer 

09:04 The Role of Storytelling in Legal Business Development 

11:07 How Storytelling Connects to Legal Marketing 

16:36 Steve’s “Informercial Approach” to Legal Work 

21:00 Why Lawyers Seek Steve’s Help 

23:30 Legal Coaching vs. Training 

30:00 The Value of Peer Advocacy 

33:07 How to Connect with Steve Online

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