15 Minutes Share Your Voice

Lisa Callif is a Partner at Donaldson Callif Perez, a law firm representing independent producers, production companies, and content creators in matters including equity financing, production, and distribution. Lisa’s expertise extends to fair use, copyright, and personal rights issues. Known for cutting through bureaucratic red tape, she has developed a reputation for preserving artists' voices and enabling the production of stories that might otherwise go untold. In addition to her work with content creators, Lisa serves as legal counsel to several non-profit organizations, such as Film Independent and Women in Film. She is co-author of The American Bar Association’s Legal Guide to Independent Filmmaking and the 4th edition of Clearance & Copyright, and regularly contributes articles on emerging topics in entertainment and copyright law. Lisa has received numerous awards and recognitions, including being named a Hollywood Reporter Power Lawyer and a Daily Journal Top Entertainment Lawyer. In this episode… Cracking the code of the entertainment industry's legal landscape can seem like an uphill battle. Filmmakers' creativity is often stifled by the lawyers they partner with, halting projects in their tracks. But what if you could flip the script and make the law work for you? Enter Lisa Callif, an attorney who has become a go-to expert for filmmakers looking to navigate complex legal terrain. Lisa is dedicated to empowering independent and nonfiction filmmakers — advocating for their creative freedom. Her unique blend of legal know-how and a deep understanding of the creative process has made her a highly sought-after resource in the entertainment industry. In this episode of 15 Minutes, host Chad Franzen sits down with Lisa Callif, a Partner at Donaldson Callif Perez, to explore the legal intricacies filmmakers encounter and how to turn them into opportunities. Lisa discusses the evolution of her career, strategies for overcoming clearance and copyright obstacles, and her firm's contribution to the resurgence of documentaries.

Patrick Diehl is a Partner at Matterhorn Legal, a boutique law firm specializing in mergers and acquisitions, venture capital, private equity financings, and outsourced general counsel services. He focuses his practice on legal needs for early-stage companies and investment funds, including formation, financings, mergers and acquisitions, and other strategic corporate transactions, as well as offering general corporate advisory. Before joining Matterhorn, Patrick worked as a corporate attorney at Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati in San Francisco and Jones Day in New York, focusing on mergers and acquisitions. He has advised on transactions equating to over $1 billion. Patrick is a Harlan Fiske Scholar from Columbia Law School and graduated with honors in Political Science from the University of Chicago. In this episode… Navigating the legal landscape of startups can feel like an uphill battle, riddled with complexities and unexpected challenges. What if your legal strategy wasn't just about avoiding pitfalls but creating win-win situations for all? Enter Patrick Diehl, a seasoned corporate attorney. With experience in large law firms and his own boutique practice, Patrick provides a unique perspective on startup strategies. His emphasis on creating positive, win-win transactions rather than zero-sum games sets him apart from his competitors. As a small business owner, Patrick understands the nuanced pressures and challenges of launching startups. In this episode of 15 Minutes, host Bela Musits sits down with Patrick Diehl, a Partner at Matterhorn Legal, to delve into the world of win-win legal strategies for startups. Patrick shares practical advice for smaller investment funds and businesses, his philosophy on shorter-duration transactions, and how being a small business owner makes him a more empathetic legal counsel. He also discusses the pros and cons of various legal practices and how he found his niche in corporate law.

Dimitry Herman is the Founder and Managing Partner at Herman Law, a corporate transactional law boutique providing comprehensive legal services to budding technology companies. With over two decades of experience, Dimitry focuses on internet advertising, social media, loyalty, and gaming sectors. He also serves as deal counsel for venture capital investments, corporate mergers and acquisitions, licensing, and strategic alliances, among other corporate deals. In addition to his successful law career, Dimitry is esteemed for his academic involvement as an adjunct professor at the New England School of Law, where he teaches Corporate Mergers & Acquisitions. He also leverages his extensive expertise to foster the entrepreneurial community in Boston, acting as a judge, advisor, and mentor in numerous esteemed institutions. In this episode… The legal field is more than just practicing law. It's a multifaceted field that extends to managing a law firm and educating the next generation of legal experts. Balancing all these aspects is no easy feat, yet it's a challenge that some professionals have embraced head-on. Among them is Dimitry Herman — a practicing lawyer, law firm founder, and a law educator. Dimitry has successfully navigated these complex roles, carving out a unique position in the legal field. In this episode of 15 Minutes, host Chad Franzen sits down with Dimitry Herman, Founder and Managing Partner at Herman Law, to explore the fascinating intersections of law practice, firm management, and legal education. They delve into Dimitry's journey in the legal industry, his experience as an adjunct professor, and the current market trends. Tune in to enhance your understanding of the diverse opportunities within the legal profession.

Gary Altman is the Founder and Principal Attorney at Altman & Associates, a law firm specializing in estate, legacy, and business planning. Having been in the field since 1980, Gary brings over three decades of experience to the practice. His firm serves the Washington metropolitan area, guiding individuals, couples, high-net-worth families, corporate fiduciaries, businesses, and charitable organizations. His expertise extends to complex estate matters, including contested estates and trusts, probate matters, and the generational transfer of wealth. Nationally recognized as an authority in his field, Gary has been acknowledged by the Washingtonian magazine and Bethesda magazine as one of the DC, Maryland region’s “Best Estate Planners.” A trusted legal analyst, Gary's insights and writings have appeared in The Washington Post, The NY Times, The Wall Street Journal, and FOX News, among other outlets. In this episode… Estate planning is a crucial yet often misunderstood topic. Although not the most sought-after nuance in the legal industry, estate planning is arguably the most critical facet from the client's perspective. Have you considered what will become of your assets when you pass away? Is it too early or too late to start planning? Consider how your loved ones will be affected by your passing away. Not only will your family be grieving your loss, but they’ll also be burdened with putting your affairs in order. Gary Altman, a lawyer with over 30 decades of experience, asserts it's never too early to start estate planning. As your family and assets evolve, you must update your will as often as necessary. Planning ahead leaves less for your loved ones to decide on your behalf. In this episode of 15 Minutes, host Bela Musits engages in a profound conversation with Gary Altman, Founder and Principal Attorney of Altman & Associates, about the intricate world of estate planning. Gary explains why estate planning extends beyond a written will, the significance of tax implications, and the crucial role of specialists in this domain. He also shares his inspiring journey of establishing his firm and his golden nuggets of advice for budding lawyers in the field.

John Risvold is a Partner at The Collins Law Firm, a premier source of legal representation in environmental, personal injury, and business litigation. With a significant focus on personal injury law, John advocates for victims of car accidents, nursing home negligence, medical malpractice, and other catastrophic injuries. Prior to his current role, John defended large multinational corporations in multi-million dollar litigation. To date, he has recovered over $5.5 million for his clients. His commitment has earned him numerous awards, including being chosen by his peers as an “Illinois Super Lawyers Rising Star” and named one of the “10 Best Personal Injury Attorneys for Client Satisfaction” in Illinois. An alumnus of the University of Missouri School of Law, John brings a combination of dedication, experience, and insider knowledge to every case he handles. In this episode… The legal industry is stereotyped as cold, analytical, and complex — void of emotion and empathy. Although not common in the industry, it is possible to incorporate humanity into legal business practices. What can you do to prioritize empathizing with your clients? How will your shift in perspective impact your business? John Risvold, a successful lawyer, offers a different perspective on the legal profession. He emphasizes the human side of his work, seeing empathy as a beneficial tool in his legal practice. His insights challenge the traditional view of law and how it intersects with the human experience. In this episode of 15 Minutes, host Chad Franzen talks with John Risvold about the role of empathy in law practice. John shares his unusual path into law, the lessons he learned along the way, and his experiences with influential mentors. He discusses the importance of treating clients as human beings, the value of taking calculated risks, and how he benefits from explaining his cases to his children.

Alexandra Michailov is the Founder and Principal Attorney at Capitol Immigration Law Group, a boutique law firm specializing in cross-border immigration matters, including employment-based immigration benefits, corporate compliance, and family-based immigration. With a decade of experience, Alexandra leads the immigration practice at the firm, advising corporate and individual clients in the US and internationally. Her expertise extends to the mobility of key foreign executives, specialized knowledge workers, international entrepreneurs, and foreign nationals. She is knowledgeable in international law and has conducted legal research for the World Bank Group in Washington, D.C. In this episode… Immigrating to a new country is a journey filled with hopes, dreams, and the unshakable human spirit, yet it comes with its own challenges. Each individual story contains a complex web of legal intricacies that only a select few truly understand. Meet Alexandra Michailov, a seasoned attorney and managing partner at Capitol Immigration Law Group. Alexandra has extensive experience in immigration law, offering her legal expertise to individuals, families, and businesses. Having navigated through this system herself, she blends empathy and understanding with her legal acumen to provide the best possible support for her clients. In this episode of the 15 Minutes, host Bela Musits sits down with Alexandra Michailov to discuss her journey to becoming a successful immigration attorney. Alexandra shares how her firm services specialized knowledge individuals, aspects of her business that differentiate from its competitors, and why she decided to prioritize business development and marketing strategies when launching the firm. Tune in to learn about immigration law from an attorney who has personal experience with the process.

Manali Arora is a Partner at Swartz Swidler, a plaintiff-oriented employment and civil rights law firm providing legal assistance throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey. As an employment litigation attorney, Manali represents plaintiffs who have faced workplace discrimination and wrongful termination. She represents clients throughout the litigation process, from administrative claims at the EEOC level to federal court cases. Manali concentrates her practice on employment and education law, fighting for the civil rights of individuals who have encountered unlawful discrimination in the workplace and educational institutions. She is a published author on the subject matter of racial discrimination in public schools. In this episode… Are you feeling undervalued, overworked, or discriminated against in the workplace? Seeking justice may seem daunting, especially when you're pitted against large corporations. In these challenging moments, you're not alone — professionals like Manali Arora are on your side. What should you do if you have fallen victim to workplace prejudice? Manali Arora, a passionate and accomplished employment attorney, believes in the power of standing up to corporate giants. In her position, she takes pride in empowering individuals to navigate the complexities of employee litigation and level the playing field in a challenging system. While workplace discrimination is illegal, it still occurs more often than we realize. The most efficient way to right these wrongs is to establish a thorough paper trail and hire an attorney who fights on your behalf. In this episode of 15 Minutes, host Chad Franzen is joined by Manali Arora, a Partner at Swartz Swidler, to discuss her role as a champion for civil rights law. Manali shares why she chose to specialize in employment litigation, the intricacy of handling discrimination cases, and advises on what to do if treated unjustly by your employer. Her insight on employment litigation emphasizes a lawyer’s ability to achieve justice.

Barry Lewin is a Partner Attorney at Gottlieb, Rackman & Reisman, a full-service intellectual property boutique law firm known for providing expert legal advice on patent, trademark, copyright, and unfair competition law. Barry specializes in patent prosecution for mechanical and electronic inventions, covering technology from software and hardware in the medical device field to telecommunications, material science, and robotics. Before his successful law career, Barry held directorial roles at Lucent Technologies, Telcordia Technologies, and SAIC, leading initiatives in product assurance, intellectual property, and new product development. An active participant in the academic sector, he periodically lectures at institutions such as Tufts University and Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law and has previously taught university-level mathematics. In this episode… Imagine spending decades building a successful career in telecommunications, only to take a sharp turn and dive headfirst into a completely different field — patent law. Such an abrupt shift isn't for the faint-hearted, but Barry Lewin proved it's never too late to pursue a new professional path. Barry is a seasoned patent attorney, who once stood on the frontline of telecommunications, but later decided to transition into the intricate world of patent law. Equipped with engineering skills, he embarked on a fascinating journey that took him from telecommunication networks to a law school classroom, and eventually, the international legal scene. In this episode of 15 Minutes, Chad Franzen sits down with Barry Lewin, Partner Attorney at Gottlieb, Rackman & Reisman, to talk about his career transition and how it shaped his outlook and approach in patent law. They discuss Barry's decision to return to school later in life, his unique ability to bridge the gap between engineering and law, and his unforgettable global experiences. Tune in to learn about navigating career shifts, the challenges and rewards of patent law, and the pivotal role of interdisciplinary knowledge in this field.

Shane Smith is the Owner of Shane Smith Law, a firm specializing in personal injury cases, and committed to guiding clients through the complexities of the legal recovery process. Shane’s early career experiences encompassed roles with local attorney Richard Hobbs and the Fulton and Rockdale County DA offices. He also had the opportunity to compete in a national competition with the Student Trial Lawyers Association. Upon his admittance to the Georgia Bar, Shane served in the U.S. Army Judge Advocate General's Corps (JAG), practicing as a criminal defense attorney throughout the Southeast. He is admitted to practice law in all Georgia courts, the Military Court System, and the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Georgia. In this episode… Navigating the complex world of personal injury law can be daunting, especially when dealing with the aftermath of an accident. It's a time filled with uncertainty, stress, and countless questions about your rights and the legal process. In the realm of personal injury law, Shane Smith is a name that stands out. With years of experience under his belt, Shane has dedicated his career to helping individuals and families who have been wrongfully injured. His firm, Shane Smith Law, focuses solely on personal injury cases, ensuring each client receives the attention, professionalism, and commitment they deserve. In this episode of 15 Minutes, host Chad Franzen is joined by Shane Smith to explore the intricacies of personal injury law and the role of an attorney in these cases. Shane shares how he discovered his passion for the legal industry, the mindset he fosters when defending clients, how he built his firm and acquired its first clients, and the marketing strategies he used when promoting business. Tune in to gain valuable insights from a seasoned professional in the field.

Kenneth Hoffman is a Founding Partner and Personal Injury Attorney at Mitchell Hoffman & Wolf, a Chicago-based law firm providing legal representation for victims of negligence or misconduct. Ken is an award-winning plaintiff’s personal injury attorney with over 25 years of experience specializing in cases involving automobile and trucking accidents, medical malpractice, and wrongful death litigation. His legal expertise, combined with a unique, individual approach, has led to numerous multi-million-dollar verdicts and settlements for his clients. Ken's successes have earned him recognition from prestigious professional organizations and media attention, with features in ABC Eyewitness News, Chicago Tribune, and the Chicago Law Bulletin. In this episode… Do you ever wonder what it takes to succeed in the challenging field of personal injury law? What are the key milestones and transformative experiences that define a law firm's journey, and how does one navigate the hurdles and triumphs within this particular sector of law? Kenneth Hoffman, a personal injury attorney with over 30 years of experience, offers invaluable insights into the intricate dynamics of personal injury law, the changing landscape of the legal profession, and the crucial role of preparation and continuous learning in achieving courtroom success. His recollection of his journey within the legal industry encourages present and future law professionals to continue providing exceptional service to their clients. In this episode of 15 Minutes, Chad Franzen sits down with Kenneth Hoffman, a Founding Partner and Personal Injury Attorney at Mitchell Hoffman & Wolf, to discuss his experience launching his firm. Ken explains the difference between working for yourself versus someone else, how the firm acquired its first clients, and the key to winning cases. He also shares what he enjoys about being a plaintiff’s personal injury attorney, the milestone he’s most proud of, and imparts advice passed down from his mentors.

Steven Cernak is a Partner at Bona Law, PC, a firm specializing in antitrust litigation and competition law in the U.S. and abroad. Steve, a respected leader in the international antitrust and competition law community, currently serves as the Vice Chair of the Antitrust Section of the American Bar Association, with a slated Chair position in 2024. Prior to Bona Law, he served as in-house antitrust counsel at General Motors for 20 years, overseeing mergers, antitrust litigation, and global antitrust compliance. Steve also teaches antitrust law at the University of Michigan Law School and the Thomas M. Cooley Law School Corporate & Finance LLM program. As a prolific writer, he has contributed to antitrust and competition law literature, authored a widely used textbook, Antitrust Simulations, and annually updates his book, Antitrust in Distribution and Franchising. In this episode… Understanding antitrust law can seem challenging, yet it's a crucial aspect of conducting business in today's competitive environment. Gaining insight into this complex field arms you with the knowledge to make informed decisions and devise effective business strategies. Steven Cernak is an expert in antitrust law. Known for his breadth of experience and ability to break down complex legal concepts, Steve has advised an array of clients and has taught antitrust law at multiple law schools. His unique blend of practical experience and academic knowledge brings a fresh perspective to the topic. In this episode of 15 Minutes, host Chad Franzen engages in a fascinating conversation with Steven Cernak, a Partner at Bona Law, PC, to discuss his career trajectory, the nuances of antitrust law, his experience teaching at the university level, and the major milestones in his career.

Susan Henner is the Founder and Owner of Henner Law Group, PC, a full-service immigration law firm committed to helping immigrants obtain documentation to legally work in the US. Before founding her law firm in 2001, Susan worked for several large New York City law firms where her clients ranged from Fortune 500 companies to Wall Street firms to schools and hospitals. Susan is also a mentor attorney for the Safe Passage Program at New York Law School, assisting unaccompanied minors find pro bono immigration representation. Additionally, she was a founding board member and served as Vice President of the organization. Susan is also the former co-chair of the Westchester County Bar Association’s Committee for Immigration and Nationality Law. In this episode… Did you know to work in the United States you must be a legal resident? In most cases, someone who immigrated to the US possesses a visa, work permit, green card, or US citizenship before being authorized to work. But who’s responsible for providing the documentation? How long do these types of cases last? Immigration law is complex. If you’re an employer or individual inquiring about the process, you should seek the services of an immigration law firm. These firms focus on providing immigrants with legal documentation and understand the nuances of the law. Also, realize that obtaining documentation to work or become a US citizen is a timely process that requires patience. In this episode of 15 Minutes, join Bela Musits as he welcomes Susan Henner, Founder and Owner of the Henner Law Group, PC, to discuss immigration law. Susan shares why she’s passionate about immigration law, the challenges she overcame when launching her firm, and how she acquires and retains clients. She also explains the process of obtaining a US visa and shares her involvement with the Safe Passage Program.

Michael Eisenbaum is the Managing Partner of Gray•Duffy, LLP, a firm specializing in litigation and dispute resolution across various legal fields. With a diversified practice encompassing extensive litigation experience, Michael has successfully represented numerous individuals and businesses in premises liability, contract liability and enforcement, personal injury, and property damage litigation. He demonstrates expertise in handling a range of civil lawsuits from inception through trials and appeals. In this episode… In the world of law and litigation, a successful practice hinges on a thorough understanding of legal intricacies and the ability to build strong client relationships. Combining legal knowledge, effective communication, and client advocacy is a balancing act. Michael Eisenbaum, a Managing Partner at Gray•Duffy, LLC, demonstrates mastery in this field. He offers more than just in-depth knowledge of insurance defense and business litigation. What sets Michael apart is his dedication to client communication and understanding his client's needs. Discovering his passion for the legal industry was not predetermined, but shaped by unique life experiences and a relentless drive to succeed. In this episode of 15 Minutes, host Bela Musits delves into an insightful conversation with Michael Eisenbaum. Together, they explore Michael's role as a managing partner, his involvement in the firm's advertisement, and what differentiates the firm from its competitors. Michael also shares the value of contributing to article publications and insight into the future of the industry.

Daniel J. Siegel is the Owner of the Law Offices of Daniel J. Siegel, LLC, a workers’ compensation and personal injury firm. Daniel is recognized for his expertise in ethics technology, data protection and cybersecurity, civil litigation, workers' compensation matters, and business workflow management. Known as the "Lawyer Other Lawyers Call for Advice," he is committed to delivering personalized representation tailored to his clients' unique needs and financial circumstances. Daniel is a prolific speaker and author, having presented 350-plus programs, written 250-plus articles, and published 14 books on a variety of legal topics. Daniel is also the Owner of Integrated Technology Services, LLC, a technology and software consulting firm for law practices and small businesses. In this episode… Creating a law firm that caters to the diverse needs of its clients requires comprehensive legal knowledge, entrepreneurial acumen, and the capacity to adapt to client expectations. Attorneys dedicate their careers to helping their clients resolve legal matters. But what happens when lawyers find themselves on the receiving end of disciplinary counsel? Professional guidelines are put in place to protect you and your client — but you may unknowingly infringe upon your duties. It’s not uncommon for lawyers to breach the Model Rules of Professional Conduct. When an attorney violates the code of conduct they may be approached by a disciplinary counsel for correction. Daniel J. Siegel, an experienced attorney with a background in technology and social media, has built his practice to assist legal professionals in matters requiring disciplinary action. His insight can help rising attorneys build and maintain an integrous reputation. In this episode of 15 Minutes, host Chad Franzen interviews Daniel J. Siegel, Owner of the Law Offices of Daniel J. Siegel, LLC, to discuss his experience representing legal professionals in matters requiring disciplinary counsel. Daniel shares what inspired his pursuit of the legal industry, why he launched his firm, and how he attracted clients. He also explains why it’s important for aspiring attorneys to diversify their areas of legal expertise.

Sabrina Shaheen Cronin is the Founder and Managing Partner of The Cronin Law Firm PLLC, which offers law services for cases involving family, divorce, custody, and criminal defense. Sabrina is a nationally recognized motivational speaker, strategist coach, writer, mentor, and television personality. She has developed her own curriculum and hosts weekly workshops providing parents with resources to cope with co-parenting dilemmas. Sabrina received her JD and MBA from the University of Detroit Mercy and is licensed to practice law in Michigan, New York, and Illinois. In this episode… Building a renowned law firm, coaching individuals, and leading business strategies simultaneously can be intimidating. But for Sabrina Shaheen Cronin, it’s all in a day's work. Leveraging her extensive education and her commitment to helping others, Sabrina has created space in the legal industry to impact lives beyond the courtroom. Sabrina combined her business and law degrees to establish Cronin Law Firm, transforming it into a successful practice. Recognizing she could lend her expertise outside the firm, she ventured into life and business coaching to help clients address issues that often serve as roadblocks in their personal and professional life. In this episode of 15 Minutes, host Chad Franzen welcomes Sabrina Shaheen Cronin, Founder and Managing Partner at Cronin Law Firm, to discuss her law, business, and coaching career. Sabrina shares the initial struggles of starting her practice and how she managed to intertwine her legal work with personal development and coaching.

Chris Smith is the Managing Attorney at The Smith Firm, a family law practice based in Oklahoma City specializing in divorce and custody cases. Chris is a Martindale-Hubbell® AV Preeminent peer-review-rated attorney representing clients in domestic litigation matters. He was recognized by Journal Record’s Achievers Under 40 and included in the Super Lawyer Rising Star list from 2014-2020. As an advocate for parental equality, Chris contributed to the writing of 2021’s House Bill 1151, which strengthened the public policy for equal rights for parents in Oklahoma. Chris is the author of the Oklahoma Divorce Guidebook and Faithfully: Issues of Faith & Family Law in the 21st Century Church. In this episode… Navigating the intricacies of family law requires a deft touch, a deep understanding of the legal field, and a commitment to client advocacy. Those ready to face these challenges will discover a career that is rewarding, full of purpose, and can make a real difference in society. Chris Smith utilized his love for academic rigor, argumentation, and a desire to help families navigate the complicated court system to build The Smith Firm. With his niche focus on high-conflict custody cases, Chris discovered the significance of forging connections with his clients, effectively advocating for their needs, and maintaining a relentless pursuit of justice. In this episode of 15 Minutes, host Chad Franzen interviews Chris Smith, Managing Attorney of The Smith Firm, to discuss his journey to establish a thriving family law practice. Chris shares valuable insights on the evolution of his career, his passion for family law, the challenges of running a law firm, and the milestones he cherishes. He highlights how personal experiences influenced his professional choices, the importance of perseverance, and the rewarding aspect of being a voice for parents.

Adam Rossen is the Founder and CEO of Rossen Law Firm, a practice representing clients in criminal defense cases. Adam has represented thousands of clients across a spectrum of criminal cases and severe felony charges. His experience as an Assistant State Attorney in Broward County provided him a unique understanding of prosecutorial strategies, making him an effective defense attorney. His background and courtroom approach has resulted in numerous acquittals and dismissals for his clients. Adam is a double-degree holder from the University of Florida and a law graduate from the University of Miami. Over the years, he has received numerous accolades including a perfect 10.0 rating on AVVO, an AV Preeminent Rating by Martindale Hubbell, and recognition as a SuperLawyers Rising Star and a Florida Legal Elite Rising Star. In this episode… Constructing a thriving law firm specializing in criminal defense requires a deep understanding of the law, strong relationship-building skills, and the ability to navigate an ever-changing legal landscape. For those embracing these challenges, a rewarding and influential career awaits. Adam Rossen leveraged his background as a prosecutor and his innate passion for marketing to build Rossen Law Firm into a successful practice that helps good people when bad things happen. He found that the keys to success in criminal defense were building trust with clients, effectively representing their needs, and utilizing creative marketing strategies. In this episode of 15 Minutes, host Chad Franzen interviews Adam Rossen, Founder and CEO of Rossen Law Firm, to discuss how he built a flourishing criminal defense practice. Adam shares insights on the firm's growth, attracting ideal clients, running a law firm as a business, and the milestones he proudly reflects on. Additionally, he highlights the law firm's proactive approach during the COVID-19 pandemic and the valuable experiences they provided to interns during that uncertain time.

Chad Shifrin is a Partner at Laurie & Brennan LLP, a boutique construction law firm in Chicago, IL. With over 18 years of experience, Chad focuses his practice on litigating and arbitrating complex construction disputes and represents owners and construction professionals in a court of law. In addition to his litigation work, Chad regularly counsels clients in non-litigation matters, assisting in contract negotiation through project completion. In this episode… Building a successful law firm focused on settling construction disputes is a challenging endeavor. It requires an understanding of the industry, the desire to build relationships, and the ability to navigate complex legal situations. For those willing to embrace these challenges, a fulfilling and impactful career awaits. Chad Shifrin leveraged his experience working for an international law firm to build industry connections and solve complex legal cases. He discovered that the key to success in construction law was building trust with clients, effectively representing their needs, and finding practical solutions to legal disputes. In this episode of 15 Minutes, host Chad Franzen sits down with Chad Shifrin, Partner at Laurie & Brennan LLP, to discuss his journey in helping build a successful construction law practice. Chad talks about the firm's early days, how the team acquired clients, the challenges of running a law firm as a business, and the problems they solve for their clients. He also shares the advice he’s received from mentors and its influence on his career.

Elizabeth Yang is the Founder and CEO of Yang Law Offices, a law firm specializing in family law, business law, intellectual property law, and estate planning. Throughout her legal career, Elizabeth has received numerous accolades, including the "Top 100 Civil Lawyers" award and the "Top 40 Lawyers Under 40" award by the National Trial Lawyers Association. Elizabeth is the best-selling author of The Big Secret and Stress-Free Divorce. In this episode… Building a successful law firm and embracing entrepreneurship may seem like a daunting task, but with resilience, determination, and adaptability, anything is possible. Even if your background is rooted in a dissimilar industry, you can leverage your expertise to launch your legal career. Prior to owning her law firm, Elizabeth Yang was an electrical engineer. After gaining experience at a firm, she decided to start her own practice — and faced numerous challenges along the way. Elizabeth had to learn the ropes of entrepreneurship while continuing to establish her legal career. As her practice grew, she demonstrated her entrepreneurial skills by adapting to uncontrollable circumstances and evolving her services to better serve her clients. In this episode of 15 Minutes, Bela Musits sits down with Elizabeth Yang, the Founder and CEO of Yang Law Offices, to discuss what inspired her to start her firm and how it’s progressed over the years. Elizabeth shares the challenges of her career transition, how to grow your clientele, and her advice for anyone contemplating a career change. Tune in to learn how Elizabeth's entrepreneurial spirit and expertise have fueled her commitment to helping families through her legal services.

Mark Roderick is a Principal Partner at Lex Nova Law, a boutique law firm representing entrepreneurs and businesses. As an attorney for crowdfunding and fintech clients, Mark represents issuers, platforms, and investors nationwide and globally. He authors a crowdfunding blog to educate the crowdfunding industry on legal knowledge and speaks at conferences across the country. Mark has served as the Chair for the firm’s Corporate Law Group and the Mergers & Acquisitions Group. His extensive and diverse legal expertise enables him to offer his clients multi-faceted legal counsel. In this episode… Why is intellectual honesty important for lawyers? By prioritizing what is morally correct over personal gain, lawyers strengthen the lawyer-client relationship and contribute to a fair and just society. Upholding the integrity of the legal profession and ensuring that justice is served depends on attorneys’ commitment to ethical principles — even when they don’t benefit from what they advocate. As a math major, Mark Roderick was exposed to the world of math proofs and abstract thinking. Realizing he desired to work with people and help solve problems in the real world, he applied to law school. Unlike other professionals in the industry, Mark has a passion for doing what is right at all times — and seeks out others who value intellectual honesty over financial gain. Respecting your integrity, both in your profession and personal life, strengthens your relationships as individuals grow to trust you have their best interest in mind. In this episode of 15 Minutes, Chad Franzen sits down with Mark Roderick, Principal Partner at Lex Nova Law, to discuss how sharing the same values impacts your work environment. Mark also talks about what inspired him to pursue a career in law, how his background in math has contributed to his career, and how he started his crowdfunding blog.