The Rainmaking Podcast

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Barbara Koenen-Geerdink, former CMO of the largest law firm in the Middle East and co-founder of Boost, about the mindset and vision necessary to become a successful rainmaker. Barbara emphasizes that building a book of business is a long-term journey, best started early in one’s career with a clear, tangible vision of success. She explains how to create a detailed roadmap based on visualization, goal-setting, and structured milestones—transforming abstract ambitions into daily actions that build momentum.

Barbara also shares how Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) can rewire self-doubt and limiting beliefs, helping professionals embody the mindset of a rainmaker before they achieve the title. She outlines the top pitfalls to avoid, including distraction, comparison, and vague goals, and offers three action steps: define your vision, condition your mindset, and track measurable progress toward clearly defined outcomes. This episode offers both the strategic and psychological tools needed to move from aspiration to execution.

Visit: https://therainmakingpodcast.com/

YouTube: https://youtu.be/5JotRQJTd-s

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This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link:

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Barbara Koenen-Geerdink is a seasoned business development and marketing expert with extensive experience in the professional services sector. She is the co-founder of BOOST, a platform dedicated to empowering business development and marketing professionals within law firms. Through BOOST, Barbara provides strategic insights, leadership, and a community-driven approach to help law firms enhance their business development efforts and drive long-term growth.
Barbara’s career includes senior roles in leading international law firms,
where she was instrumental in developing and executing business development and marketing strategies. Most notably, she served as CMO for the largest law firm in the Middle East, where she played a pivotal role in driving the firm’s strategic market presence and client engagement initiatives.
In her role as a Professional Services Consultant at Nexl, Barbara works
closely with law firms to optimise their CRM systems and implement data-driven strategies that enhance business development performance. Her expertise covers CRM adoption, technology integration, and strategic BD initiatives that enable firms to achieve measurable success.

Links:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/barbara-koenen-geerdink-231a4613/

https://boostbdm.com/

https://nexl.cloud/

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In this solo episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love shares a tactical framework for creating a powerful client pitch by focusing on what truly sets you apart. Drawing from his own experiences in legal recruiting and professional speaking, Scott introduces his “1-3-5” model: one distinct differentiator, three unique attributes, and five storyboards (client success anecdotes) that demonstrate value. He explains that in a hyper-competitive marketplace, professionals must lead with what they can say about themselves that no one else can—whether it’s a niche specialization, a proprietary method, or a specific client outcome.

Scott emphasizes the importance of being memorable and relevant when making your pitch, and he offers practical tips on how to uncover your distinction through client feedback and story-driven messaging. Referencing insights from Pitch Anything and his own work with high-stakes firms, Scott provides a clear roadmap for professionals to sharpen their message, build credibility quickly, and gain a competitive edge in client development.

Visit: https://therainmakingpodcast.com/

YouTube: https://youtu.be/xhVo12IwwQQ

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This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link:

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Scott Love is a legal recruiter who is solely focused on
recruiting corporate and finance partners for global law firms in major
markets. He is also a coauthor of Rainmaker Confidential, and speaks at
conferences professionally to business groups on sales, client development, and
recruiting.

www.rainmakerconfidential.com

www.therainmakingpodcast.com

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In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Lee Heyward, brand strategist and founder of The Prosperous Image, about how law firm leaders can align their external image with their internal values to attract the right clients and create stronger teams. Lee outlines her “Image Mastery System,” which includes five core elements: personal brand, online persona, team alignment, physical environment, and client experience. She explains that every detail—from how a founder dresses to how the receptionist greets a visitor—either reinforces or erodes the firm’s brand promise.

Lee shares how founders often unintentionally set the tone for a misaligned culture by being unclear or inconsistent in their own presentation. She encourages professionals to examine whether their image truly reflects their values and vision, starting with a self-assessment and extending to the client journey. With practical tips on dress culture, onboarding, and internal communication, this episode offers a thoughtful guide to building a brand from the inside out—one that not only looks the part, but delivers on it.

Visit: https://therainmakingpodcast.com/

Watch our video interview: https://youtu.be/gsTvwSO01qw

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This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link:

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Lee Heyward is a brand consultant and the founder of The Prosperous Image, a consulting firm that gives clients an edge in the moments that matter. She works closely with law firm founders and other high-achieving leaders to help them reach unlimited growth, personal freedom, and unparalleled brand loyalty.

She is the author of the bestselling book ‘Strategically Suited: Your Secret Edge to Grow Sales and Get New Clients’ and recently published a children’s book ‘Mirror Friends: Find the Magic Inside.’

Links:

https://prosperousimage.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/prosperousimage/

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In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Bob Wiesner—author of Winning is Better and partner at The Artemis Partnership—about how professionals can use strategic business development positioning to win more consistently. Known as “The Pitch Doctor,” Bob breaks down his five-part framework for effective positioning: defining the client’s problem, offering unique insight, presenting a tailored solution, providing measurable results, and articulating the broader impact. He explains that while most professionals focus on their credentials and solutions, what truly sets them apart is their ability to reframe their value from the client’s perspective.

Bob emphasizes that rainmakers must lead with empathy and relevance—starting conversations with the client’s pain points rather than their own qualifications. He walks through how to uncover insights, develop client-specific messaging, and communicate tangible business outcomes that differentiate your firm. For professionals seeking a step-by-step roadmap to build credibility and earn trust in a crowded market, this episode delivers a masterclass in persuasive business development.

Visit: https://therainmakingpodcast.com/

Watch our video interview: https://youtu.be/hvztbsQ02JQ

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This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link:

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Bob Wiesner is known as the ‘pitch doctor’ because of his approach to winning pitches. He’s advised on over 400 transactions in the last 25 years and his clients include companies like KPMG, Deloitte and JP Morgan Chase, and top firms in advertising, accounting, architecture, engineering, consulting, law and investment banking.

Bob Wiesner’s book: Winning is Better: The Journey to New Business Success https://www.amazon.com/Winning-Better-Journey-Business-Success/dp/B09NRD7H6Y

 Bob Wiesner on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobwiesner/

 http://www.changeforce.ai/

bob.wiesner@changeforce.ai

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In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Dave Sanderson—speaker, author, and survivor of the “Miracle on the Hudson”—about how professionals can create powerful business relationships through what he calls the “real AI”: authentic interactions. Drawing from his experience in sales and crisis leadership, Dave introduces his five-step “Access to Influence” model: Access, Connection, Relationship, Influence, and Affinity. He shares how building meaningful, trust-based relationships—especially through in-person interactions—leads to long-term business success and client loyalty.

Dave emphasizes that while artificial intelligence is gaining traction, authentic human connection remains the most effective tool for rainmakers. He explains how to navigate gatekeepers, identify internal champions, and develop influence that drives results—even in high-stakes sales environments. This episode offers a powerful framework for professionals who want to deepen their impact and grow through purposeful, relationship-driven strategies.

Visit: https://therainmakingpodcast.com/

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This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link:

Demo Request

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On January 15, 2009, Dave Sanderson was one of the last passengers off the plane that crashed into the Hudson River, best known as The Miracle on the Hudson, and considered to be the most successful ditching in aviation history. As President of his firm, Dave Sanderson Speaks International LLC, he has built a career as a motivational speaker, mentor, and author. Recently named by Inc.com as one of the top 100 Leadership Speakers, Dave speaks to audiences around the globe about the harrowing experience that shaped his future.

At a time when people are longing for connection and community, they are also seeking a way to create an extraordinary life truly. So many don’t have a mentor or their own personal “board of directors, so today, Dave works with people of all ages to help them decide what their personal “life” brand will look like going forward. From his own life-changing experience, Dave is now convinced that everyone has their own defining moment but that most don’t know how to take that first step to find the opportunities that exist out of their own uncertainty.

Links:

https://davesandersonspeaks.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/hiredavesanderson

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In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Jessica Rhodes, founder of Interview Connections, about how professionals can leverage podcast guest appearances to boost visibility, build credibility, and attract more clients. Jessica explains why guesting on podcasts is one of the most scalable, evergreen ways for professionals to share their expertise and develop trust with prospective clients. Unlike one-time events or short-form posts, podcast interviews allow audiences to hear your voice, connect emotionally, and consume your content over time—often leading to deeper engagement and qualified leads.

Jessica outlines the steps to get started, including creating a compelling one-sheet, identifying shows that reach your ideal audience, and delivering value without being overly promotional. She also shares how to repurpose podcast content for email, social media, and outreach to prospects and clients. For rainmakers and service professionals looking for a high-impact visibility strategy, this episode offers a roadmap to becoming a sought-after podcast guest.

Visit: https://therainmakingpodcast.com/

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This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link:

Demo Request

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Jessica Rhodes founded Interview Connections, the world’s first and leading podcast booking agency in 2013, back when no other agencies like it existed. Since its founding, Interview Connections has booked over 30,000 podcast interviews for over 800 clients! Jessica is passionate about helping entrepreneurs who feel like the best-kept secret grow their business online through genuine, human-to-human connection. The podcast interviews Jessica and her team have booked have helped their clients generate millions of dollars in sales, sell thousands of books, and transform countless lives.

Links:

https://interviewconnections.com/prep-checklist/

https://www.instagram.com/interviewconnections/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-rhodes-9a291020/

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=8227848

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In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Chuck Curtis, legal industry consultant and former director of lateral partner hiring at Pillsbury, about navigating the complexities of law firm partner compensation. With decades of experience at firms like Latham & Watkins and PricewaterhouseCoopers, Chuck shares practical insights into how law firms determine partner pay and how legal recruiters can facilitate more successful negotiations.

Chuck emphasizes the importance of establishing clear communication between firms and candidates early in the process, particularly around compensation expectations. He explains why compensation is rarely the only factor in a lateral move, but often becomes the deciding one. Chuck also highlights the role of guarantees, performance incentives, and market perception in shaping offers, while addressing the delicate balance firms must maintain between attracting talent and preserving internal equity.

This episode provides valuable advice for law firm leaders, recruiters, and lateral partners on how to approach partner compensation negotiations strategically, ensuring outcomes that are beneficial for all parties.

Visit: https://therainmakingpodcast.com/

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This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link:

Demo Request

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Chuck Curtis is a dynamic professional with nearly 40 years of professional services experience, including as Senior Director of Attorney Recruiting at Pillsbury from 2007 until his retirement in 2023. Shortly thereafter he began his own coaching/consulting practice utilizing his deep expertise and industry knowledge to consult with law firms regarding upgrading their partner hiring and integration processes, including aligning firm leadership with practice section leadership and recruiting leadership to developing winning hiring strategies and practices. He also provides strategic coaching to partners, associates, high level internal recruiting leaders and external legal recruiters.

Links:

https://clcurtis31consulting.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/charles-curtis-7461a39

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In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Anna Rappaport, business development strategist and legal industry expert, about how lawyers and professionals can create a sustainable rainmaking strategy. Anna emphasizes that business development isn’t about quick wins—it’s about building long-term habits that generate consistent client opportunities. She explains that many professionals struggle with rainmaking because they approach it as a task rather than an ongoing practice. By shifting to a strategic, relationship-focused mindset, professionals can create a steady pipeline of new business while avoiding burnout.

Key topics include how to develop a repeatable business development routine, the importance of balancing proactive outreach with deepening existing client relationships, and why focusing on ideal clients leads to better long-term results. Anna also shares insights on how to track business development progress, the role of thought leadership in building credibility, and why professionals should prioritize meaningful conversations over high-volume networking. Additionally, she discusses how firms can support attorneys in their rainmaking efforts by fostering a culture of business development. This episode provides practical, actionable strategies for professionals looking to develop a long-term, sustainable approach to rainmaking.

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This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link:

Demo Request

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Anna Rappaport, JD, is the founder of Excelleration Coaching. She is a former lawyer with 25 years of experience coaching individual lawyers on career strategy, making partner, lateral moves and business development. Her work with law firms and practice groups includes strategic planning, teamwork and communication. Anna publishes regularly in the ABA’s Law Practice Today and other bar publications, and speaks around the country on various career and business development topics. She is a member of the Maryland and Washington, D.C. bars. Anna is also a former Tango dancer and snow-boarding instructor, both of which have surprising relevance for business communications.

Anna supports lawyers to thrive in all aspects of their careers. See here for more information.

For more information specifically about Anna’s approach to Business Development for Lawyers, see here.

If you would like to schedule a free-30 30-minute consultation with Anna, you can do so here.

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In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Hy Pomerance, Chief Talent Officer at Vinson & Elkins, about developing rainmakers within law firms and professional organizations. Hy, a psychologist by training, shares insights on how firms can foster a rainmaking culture from the earliest stages of a lawyer’s career—starting as early as the summer associate level. He explains that business development isn’t just about technical expertise but about building habits of networking, trust-building, and thought leadership. By embedding rainmaking principles into a firm’s culture, professionals can develop the skills necessary for long-term success.

Key topics include the core competencies of successful rainmakers, such as active listening, curiosity, and trustworthiness, and how early exposure to networking and client engagement helps build these skills over time. Hy discusses the importance of internal networking within a firm, how firms can gamify business development training to make it engaging, and why associates should be encouraged to proactively seek work opportunities to develop their confidence. He also explores how partners can mentor younger attorneys by bringing them along to client meetings, pitches, and conferences. Additionally, Hy shares best practices for keeping in touch with clients without being intrusive, reinforcing the importance of consistent, relationship-driven outreach. This episode provides a structured roadmap for firms looking to develop the next generation of rainmakers and create a culture of proactive business development.

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This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link:

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Hy Pomerance joined Vinson & Elkins in November 2021 and oversees the firm’s human resources, reward and benefits, legal recruiting, talent development and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion functions. Working closely with firm leadership, Hy is responsible for developing and delivering the firm’s talent and culture strategy. Prior to Vinson & Elkins, he was Chief Talent Officer at Cleary, Gottlieb, Steen and Hamilton. Hy brings 25 years of strategic talent and change experience. He was Chief HR Officer for NY Life Insurance Company and Global Managing Director of Talent at UBS. As a clinical psychologist and senior business executive, Hy brings a unique blend of skills and experience to the firm.

Links:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/hy-pomerance-58023a14/

https://www.velaw.com/people/hy-pomerance/

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In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Terry Isner, founder of Jaffe PR, about how professionals can stand out in high-stakes pitch meetings and beauty contests. Terry shares insights on why traditional sales pitches fail and explains that buyers already know a firm’s expertise before the meeting. Instead of focusing on credentials, firms should prioritize building connections, demonstrating authenticity, and showing why they’re the best fit for a long-term partnership. He emphasizes that engagement, creativity, and emotional connection are key factors that set winning firms apart.

Key topics include how to structure a pitch for engagement, ensuring that every team member has a voice rather than relying on a single partner to lead the meeting. Terry also discusses the importance of storytelling in pitches, using real-life client success stories to create memorable, relatable, and impactful presentations. He shares strategies for making pitches interactive and dynamic, avoiding static PowerPoint slides, and leaving prospects with a lasting impression through creative branding elements. Additionally, Terry introduces the concept of emotional marketing, explaining how personal stories, humor, and vulnerability help build trust and differentiate a firm from competitors. This episode provides practical strategies for professionals looking to transform their approach to pitching and dramatically improve their win rates.

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This show is sponsored by Leopard Solutions Legal Intelligence Suite of products, Firmscape, and Leopard BI. Push ahead of the pack with the power of Leopard. For a free demo, visit this link:

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A marketing philosopher, brand consultant and dynamic speaker for the legal industry, Terry M. Isner is known as “the empathy man” because of his humanistic approach to business strategy. Whereas many business professionals overlook compassion as part of the branding equation, Terry believes humanism is essential to a firm’s success in today’s socially conscious environment. As Terry says, “If humanity gets left out of the board room, nobody wins.”

In the world of legal marketing, Terry fulfills a niche as a business strategist with an extensive background as an award-winning creative director and artist. This unique mix of creative and analytical thinking makes him more likely to set trends than follow them. In fact, Terry often draws inspiration from other industries to formulate new approaches to legal marketing, PR and branding. He also stays current on the latest trends in technology to devise ways to leverage innovation to advance brands.

Terry’s philosophical approach to business is just that – a philosophy. Bringing concepts such as creativity, inclusion and compassion into corporate culture is a reflection of the world we live in. Firms that fail to be cognizant of such issues risk damage to their reputations and devaluation of their brands. Terry helps preserve brand equity by helping firms adapt to these changing times and sharing their unique stories in creative ways across multiple channels, including print, digital and social media. He also uses his passion and expertise to empower marketers to be effective agents of change within their own organizations and help drive their firm’s sales, branding and culture.

Increasingly, employees desire an employer that emphasizes a culture of diversity and compassion. This trend is accelerating as significant generational shifts ignite change in the workplace. Terry specializes in helping firms maintain a cohesive culture and navigate generational change through creative internal campaigns, unique team-building activities and community engagement opportunities that foster camaraderie at all levels.

Links:

https://www.jaffepr.com/our-team/terry-m-isner

https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharingtmi/

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