Velocity Work

How do your thoughts shape your reality as a law firm owner? The soundtracks playing on repeat in your mind - those persistent thought patterns about leadership, time management, and growth - directly impact how you run your firm and the results you achieve.   In this episode, Melissa dives into the concept of "broken soundtracks," the limiting beliefs and unhelpful thought patterns that may be holding you back without you even realizing it. Drawing from insights by Jon Acuff, Melissa explores how to identify these thoughts and, more importantly, how to rewrite them in ways that serve your growth as a leader.   Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/313

Are you struggling to get your team on board with new initiatives? Building a successful law firm isn’t just about launching new ideas – it’s about gaining genuine buy-in from your team. When things don’t go as planned, it’s natural to feel defensive or take things personally.    In this episode, Melissa shares how shifting from frustration to curiosity is essential in transforming these situations into growth opportunities. Whether you're updating systems, introducing incentive programs, or sharing strategic plans, the reception from your team provides essential data.   Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/312

Are you unknowingly sabotaging your productivity by confusing intentional planning with procrastination? Many law firm owners fall into a common trap of delaying tasks, but not all delays are created equal. Understanding the difference between virtuous procrastination and sagacious delay can transform how you manage your time, decisions, and momentum.   In this episode, Melissa explains how virtuous procrastination disguises itself as productivity but ultimately undermines self-trust and progress. By contrast, sagacious delay is a strategic, intentional pause that honors your commitments while allowing you to reschedule tasks thoughtfully. Melissa breaks down how these two approaches impact your ability to stay on track and build momentum in your firm.   Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/311

Are you holding your firm back by being too frugal with your business tools? Many law firm owners fall into the trap of cutting corners on essential tools, forcing their teams to cobble together inefficient processes that ultimately create drag throughout the entire organization.   In this episode, Melissa explains the difference between “expense thinking” and “investment thinking.” Expense thinking focuses on saving money right now, keeping firms stuck in reactive survival mode. Investment thinking, by contrast, considers what the business needs to operate at a high level both today and in the future.   Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/310

How can data-driven decision-making transform your law firm? Melissa sits down with Mastery Group member Chelsea Riekkola, who went from not knowing what a KPI was to confidently setting and achieving ambitious revenue goals for her firm.   Learn how Chelsea's firm exceeded their revenue targets through intentional goal-setting and team engagement, her unique approach to Monday Map using digital tools, and how she maintains extraordinary productivity despite juggling partnership responsibilities, board work, and family life. If you've been struggling to implement systems, Chelsea's practical insights will show you what's possible when you commit to the process.   Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/309

Are you holding yourself back with limiting beliefs about your law firm? In this episode, Melissa dives into the psychology behind these self-imposed limitations and why your brains is so good at finding evidence to support your negative beliefs.    She shares a practical framework to break free from these limiting narratives by actively hunting for disconfirming evidence. By challenging your assumptions with real data and others' experiences, you can make decisions based on facts rather than feelings. This isn't about forced positive thinking, it's about expanding your perspective to see the full range of possibilities available to you and your firm.    Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/308

Have you been struggling to create effective bonus structures that actually motivate your team without compromising the health of your firm? Today, Melissa wraps up this mini-series on bonuses and incentives with some crucial clarifications that could make or break your compensation strategy.   In this final installment, she addresses the most common questions and misconceptions that have emerged from the previous discussions. These insights will help you create compensation structures that align with your firm's goals while keeping your team engaged and motivated.   Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/307

Are you struggling to create a bonus structure that rewards your team while protecting your firm's financial health? Many law firm owners implement incentive plans that end up hurting their business or creating resentment.    In this episode, Melissa builds on the previous discussions about incentives by focusing specifically on group bonus structures. She shares why revenue-based incentives can be problematic and offers a more sustainable approach based on profit after owner distributions and taxes. This method ensures the business remains healthy while still providing meaningful rewards when the firm is truly thriving.   Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here:https://www.velocitywork.com/306

Is your law firm's incentive structure actually hurting your business instead of helping it? Many bonus systems are fundamentally broken—either paying out too much or making it impossible for team members to succeed.   In the second part of this deep dive into incentives and bonuses, Melissa walks you through how to calculate proper baselines, set up tiered structures that protect your firm's profitability, and ensure you're not giving away too much when team members exceed expectations. If you've been struggling with incentive structures that feel unfair or unsustainable, this episode provides the roadmap to fix them once and for all—while keeping your business healthy and your team motivated.   Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/305

Have you been struggling to create an incentive plan that actually works for your law firm? The truth is, there's no one-size-fits-all solution. What works brilliantly for one firm could be disastrous for another.   In this episode, Melissa walks you through how to establish smart baselines using the "true average" method, the critical differences between expectations and incentives, and the pros and cons of group versus individual incentive structures. This is part one of a deep dive into creating incentive plans that are sustainable, motivating, and aligned with your firm's values.   Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/304

Are you feeling boxed in by your own thinking? As a law firm owner, it's easy to fall into mental traps that limit progress and create unnecessary stress. The truth is, you are never stuck because of your circumstances. You are stuck because of how you think about those circumstances.   In this episode, Melissa explores common thought patterns that keep law firm owners trapped in cycles of stress and limitation. She breaks down the relationship between thoughts, feelings, actions, and results, showing how small shifts in thinking can open up new possibilities. This simple practice transforms the experience from feeling stuck to becoming strategic.   Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/303

Are you struggling to decide which Rocks to prioritize in your quarterly planning? Do you find yourself avoiding the uncomfortable tasks that deep down, you know are essential for your firm's growth? In this episode, we get into the details of setting effective Rocks and facing the discomfort that often comes with making tough decisions as a business owner.   If you're ready to step into your next level as a business owner and create the kind of firm you've always wanted, this episode is for you. Melissa will guide you through the process of setting Rocks that align with your goals, even if they make you squirm. By the end of this episode, you'll have a clearer understanding of how to prioritize your efforts and move forward with confidence.   Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/302

Do you ever feel boxed in by your own plans and systems? Like you're constantly battling against a set of rigid rules that leave no room for flexibility? Many law firm owners struggle with the idea of structure, viewing it as a restriction rather than a tool for success.     Discover the power of practicing restraint within a flexible structure and learn how tools like Monday Map/Friday Wrap can help you strike the perfect balance. Whether you're struggling with all-or-nothing thinking, battling burnout, or simply looking for a more empowering way to approach your goals, this episode will give you the perspective and strategies you need to take control of your time within your law firm and life.     Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/301 

The Law Firm Owner Podcast has officially hit 300 episodes! This milestone speaks to the power of consistency and long-term commitment. When Melissa launched the show nearly six years ago, she set a clear goal: show up every single week, no matter what.      In this episode, Melissa reflects on the lessons learned from staying the course. She shares how consistency has shaped both the podcast and her business, why playing the long game is essential for success, and how creating something of value without expecting immediate results leads to real impact over time. She also reveals exciting updates for the podcast and what’s ahead for Velocity Work.     Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/300

Have you ever stopped to consider what you're tolerating in your law firm and life? We often put up with less-than-ideal situations without realizing the impact it has on our productivity, morale, and bottom line. But what if we could harness the power of tolerance in a positive way to achieve our goals and dreams?     In this episode, Melissa explores the concept of tolerance from two different angles. She dives into how tolerating the wrong things can hold us back, while strategically tolerating discomfort can propel us forward. Tune in now to learn how to use tolerance to your advantage and take your law firm to the next level.     Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/299

Do you ever feel like you're stuck in a loop, failing to follow through on your goals despite your best intentions? You're not alone. Many law firm owners struggle to create lasting change in their lives, relying on willpower alone to push through. But what if there was a better way?     In this episode, Melissa shares insights on how to make success automatic. By setting clear, identity-based rules for yourself, you can remove decision fatigue and create a new normal. It's not about motivation; it's about the systems you put in place.     Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/298  

Do you feel like you're constantly working harder but not seeing the growth you want in your law firm? You're hiring more people, taking on more cases, and putting in long hours, yet your revenue and profit aren't keeping up. It's a frustrating cycle that can lead to burnout and leave you feeling stuck on a treadmill.     In this episode, Melissa explains how shifting your mindset from working harder to allocating smarter can help you scale your firm without burning out. You'll learn how to focus on what truly moves the needle for your business and avoid spreading yourself and your team too thin. Get ready to get off the treadmill and start seeing real, sustainable growth.     Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/297  

Do you ever feel like you're constantly playing life on "hard mode"? Like no matter how much effort you put in, you can't seem to get ahead or achieve the results you want? What if there was a way to flip the script and start playing on "easy mode" instead?     By the end of this episode, you'll have a clear understanding of what it means to position yourself well, and practical strategies you can implement right away to start experiencing more flow, productivity, and fulfillment in your life and law firm. Get ready to level up from "hard mode" to "easy mode."   Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/296

Do you ever feel like you're stuck in a rut with your law firm, desperately wanting to get your hands around your business but not knowing where to start? You're not alone. Many law firm owners struggle with understanding their data, identifying key focus areas, and making the necessary changes to achieve their goals.   In this episode, Melissa dives deep into the common challenges faced by law firm owners who feel trapped in a glorified job rather than running a thriving business. She shares insights on how to break free from the cycle of stress and overwhelm by prioritizing data-driven decision making and strategic planning. If you're ready to take the reins and create the law firm of your dreams, this episode is a must-listen!   Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/295

Are you considering expanding your law firm by adding a new practice area? It's a common dilemma faced by many law firm owners looking to grow their business and boost revenue. But is it the right move for your firm at this time?     Don't let the allure of a new revenue stream cloud your judgment. Tune in to discover how to approach expansion strategically and set your law firm up for sustainable success.     Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.velocitywork.com/294