EP324 Boosting Your Legal or Mediation Practice Through Podcasting: Insights from Dennis “DM” Meador

In today’s digital age, establishing a strong online presence is crucial for legal and mediation professionals. This is especially true for mediators who typically don’t get the attention they deserve by marketers. In this latest episode we feature marketing guru Dennis (“DM”) Meador of The Legal Podcast Network, who shared invaluable insights on how lawyers AND mediators can leverage podcasting to enhance their brand and reach a wider audience.

Dennis, with decades of experience in building successful agencies and specializing in marketing businesses, emphasized the power of “authoritative positioning marketing.” Unlike traditional branding that aims for affinity, this approach focuses on building respect for your expertise. For legal and mediation professionals, this means sharing your knowledge and educating your audience, rather than just promoting your services.

Podcasting: A Turnkey Solution for Content Generation

One of the most compelling aspects of our discussion was the “turnkey” nature of his podcasting service, The Legal Podcast Network. He highlighted how a single 30-minute podcast recording can be transformed into 30 pieces of content, including video for YouTube, audio for 25 outlets, transcriptions, FAQs for websites, and social media posts for up to 10 platforms. This comprehensive approach means that with just a minimal time investment, legal and mediation professionals can generate a month’s worth of consistent, high-quality marketing material.

Addressing the Neutrality Challenge for Mediators

A significant concern for mediators, as raised during the discussion, is how to market themselves effectively while maintaining neutrality. Dennis suggested several strategies to balance content and avoid appearing biased:

• Multi-Part Series: When dealing for example with mediating personal injury claims, a mediator could create a three-part podcast series. One episode could feature an attorney, another an insurance adjuster, and a third, perhaps a hypothetical or anonymous past client, offering perspectives from each side.
• Balanced Guest Selection: When interviewing legal professionals, ensure a mix of guests representing different viewpoints or client types (e.g., for family law, interview both “pro-mom” and “pro-dad” advocates across different episodes).
• Strategic Content Planning: Develop a detailed content plan that deliberately incorporates diverse perspectives and addresses issues from all relevant angles. This proactive planning prevents unintended bias in your marketing efforts.

With social media platform algorithms pushing consumers into silos, it’s shrewd of mediators to think about public perception and figure out ways to avoid being pigeonholed online and characterized as impartial.

The Power of Education in Marketing

Dennis underscored that the most successful mediators are those who embrace the role of an educator. Many potential clients, especially those without legal representation, may not fully understand the mediation process or its benefits compared to traditional litigation. By providing clear, informative content, mediators can bridge this knowledge gap, empowering individuals to make informed decisions and recognize the value of mediation.

Marketing from the Client Backwards

Perhaps Dennis’s most impactful advice was to shift the marketing mindset from “you outwards” to “the client backwards.” Instead of focusing on your own achievements, start by considering the needs and questions of your target audience. Develop a strategy that educates and empowers them, thereby building trust and positioning yourself as an authoritative and helpful resource. This approach ensures your marketing resonates deeply and effectively attracts the right clients. By implementing these strategies, legal and mediation professionals can harness the power of podcasting to not only promote their services but also to educate, connect, and build lasting relationships within their communities.

Learn More

Learn more about Dennis on LinkedIn, and connect by visiting The Legal Podcast Network, or by emailing adminteam@thelegalpodcastnetwork.com.