Southren
Blog

Leading a law firm has never been more complex—or more human. At SGI, we’re seeing leaders face rising pressure to perform, while also navigating team dynamics, distance, and constant change. In this blog, SGI’s Rachel Barbaro shares four key challenges law firm leaders are facing today—and how the best are responding with clarity, connection, and courage. Because real leadership isn’t just strategy. It’s human skill.

In this blog, Stephanie Cudmore shares five practical ways lawyers can show up online authentically and effectively. From clarifying your message to using the right platforms with purpose, this guide helps you grow your practice in a way that feels aligned—not awkward.

Docketing doesn’t have to be a dreaded chore. In fact, when done with intention, it can become one of the most empowering tools in your legal practice—boosting your billables, building client trust, and anchoring your impact. This blog explores why better docketing leads to better business—and how to build habits that make it easier, less stressful, and even enjoyable.

Your docket is more than a timesheet—it’s your story of value. But too often, lawyers revise the story before it’s even told. They shave time off as they docket—because they feel guilty, rushed, or unsure whether something ‘should’ve’ taken that long. The result? Clients never see the full picture. And lawyers never fully own their worth.

At SGI, we meet many seasoned lawyers at a pivotal moment—thinking about retirement, a shift in focus, or how to ensure their firm’s legacy continues with intention. Succession planning is often postponed, but it’s one of the most vital responsibilities of leadership. In this blog, Elisabeth Folk explores why starting early matters, how to prepare future leaders, and what it takes to navigate the transition with clarity, confidence, and care.

At SGI, we know too many women lawyers hesitate to step into the spotlight, fearing they’ll be labelled “too much.” But playing small doesn’t serve you—or your firm. The truth is, visibility isn’t vanity. It’s strategy. Whether you’re leading the conversation in a boardroom or speaking truth from a podium, power starts with presence. Step forward. Take the mic. Be heard.

“Follow your passion” might sound inspiring—but it rarely sustains us through the hard work of building a meaningful career. In this post, Jane Southren explores why purpose—not passion—is the real driver of fulfillment and growth, especially in law. If you’re ready to stop chasing energy and start generating it, this one’s for you.

In Part 2 of “Writing for Business Development as a Senior Lawyer,” Christine Shimoda reveals how senior lawyers can use writing to cement their legacy, mentor future leaders, and shape the profession—transforming words into enduring influence.

If the idea of booking yet another business lunch makes you groan—or worse, freeze—this one's for you. At SGI, we believe that meaningful business development doesn’t need a reservation or a calendar block. From 7-minute calls to quick video check-ins, this blog shares 20 creative, low-pressure ways lawyers can stay connected, build relationships, and grow their practices in ways that actually work. Because the best BD? It doesn’t feel like BD at all.

In this heartfelt reflection, Southren Group’s Director of Operations, Teresa Krupa, shares what it meant to help bring EMPOWER to life—from the early planning days to the final moments of connection in the room. It’s a look at what made the inaugural conference so powerful, and why this is just the beginning.

In her latest blog, Elisabeth Folk reflects on a transformative Hammam experience in Istanbul—a reminder that real growth begins at the edge of our comfort zones. At SGI, we help lawyers embrace that discomfort and grow with purpose, courage, and care.

From concept to creation, EMPOWER emerged as a bold new space for Canadian legal leaders to gather, connect, and shape what’s next. What began as a simple idea evolved into a first-of-its-kind leadership conference—brought to life through intentional branding, strategic storytelling, and the shared vision of a passionate team. The result? A powerful, purpose-driven experience that delivered insight, inspiration, and lasting impact.

AI is changing how lawyers work—but it’s the human relationships behind the tech that truly drive progress. At SGI, we’re seeing how trust, collaboration, and meaningful conversations turn AI from a tool into a catalyst for smarter, more intentional legal practice.

Discover how one founder’s leadership transformation reignited her purpose, empowered her team, and reshaped her business with ease.

Make business development a natural, energizing part of your week — build momentum with Southren Group’s proven habit-building approach.

Writing is your mid-career edge. Share insights, deepen trust, and lead with your voice. It’s time to write with purpose.

Canadian partners offer values-first alignment, global insight, and trusted support—exactly what law firms need right now.

The best lawyers are Challengers Sellers: they push thinking, reframe risks, and lead clients to smarter decisions.

Law firm leadership shouldn’t be a solo journey. EMPOWER connects leaders for real conversations, strategies, and growth.

Networking doesn’t have to be exhausting—find strategies that work for you. Here’s how neurodivergent professionals can thrive.