15 Minutes Share Your Voice

Olivia St. Clair Long is the Founder and Principal Attorney at O. Long Law, LLC, a family law firm based in Evanston, Illinois, that serves clients in the Chicagoland area. With extensive experience in litigation and a focus on cases involving divorce, custody, domestic violence, and prenuptial agreements, Olivia combines strategic legal advocacy with a practical approach to resolving disputes. Before founding her firm, she worked in both small and large law practices, developing the expertise she brings to her clients today. In this episode… Family law often carries the weight of high emotions, complex disputes, and life-altering decisions. How does a skilled advocate manage these challenges while building a thriving practice and making a meaningful impact?  According to Olivia St. Clair Long, a family law attorney, the key to success lies in understanding that litigation is a last resort. She emphasizes the importance of conflict resolution through negotiation and mediation, which can save clients both time and money while minimizing emotional stress. Olivia highlights that the emotional stakes in family law, particularly in cases involving children, require a delicate balance between compassion and pragmatism. She underscores that educating clients about the long-term impact of their decisions and keeping their focus on financial and emotional stability can pave the way for better outcomes. In this episode of 15 Minutes, Chad Franzen sits down with Olivia St. Clair Long, Founder and Principal Attorney at O. Long Law, LLC, to discuss the nuances of family law and building a practice rooted in advocacy and empathy. They explore Olivia's journey from commercial litigation to family law, her approach to resolving emotionally charged cases, and how she stays grounded while advocating for her clients. Olivia also shares advice for aspiring lawyers and insights on creating a strong firm culture.

Tom Lubnau is the Owner of Lubnau Law Office, a Wyoming firm offering a spectrum of comprehensive legal services. Tom has practiced in almost every area of the law over his career, representing Fortune 500 companies as well as his neighbors. With over 35 years of legal experience, he focuses on health and hospital law but also engages in personal injury cases and business and estate planning, among others. He has been recognized for his contributions to his community, including his service as a state legislator and volunteer firefighter. Tom was also honored as National Fire Service Training Innovator of the Year for his contributions to firefighter safety. In this episode… What drives someone to make a lasting impact in their community? Whether it's through the courtroom, on the frontlines as a firefighter, or simply lending a hand to neighbors in need, true service often transcends job titles. How can one balance these roles and still find time to give back? According to Tom Lubnau, a respected attorney and dedicated community leader, the key lies in staying focused on helping people solve problems. He emphasizes that whether it's advocating for a client or innovating firefighter safety, success comes from understanding the needs and emotions of others. By blending his legal expertise with his passion for service, Tom has made a lasting impact in Wyoming, creating change that improves lives and strengthens the community. In this episode of 15 Minutes, host Chad Franzen sits down with Tom Lubnau, Owner of Lubnau Law Office, to discuss how he's built a career serving his community through his knowledge of the law and firefighting. Tom shares his experiences innovating firefighter training, his focus on estate planning, and his legislative work to solve real-world problems. He also offers advice for young attorneys on how to strike a balance between serving others and navigating the demands of a challenging profession.

Michael Menninger is the Owner and an Attorney at Houck Menninger Law, a boutique firm specializing in estate planning, trust, probate, and elder law. He is certified as a specialist in estate planning, trust, and probate law by the Ohio State Bar Association. Michael's practice focuses on helping clients develop personalized plans to manage and protect their assets. He's also a founding member of 1st Gen Entrepreneurs and shares expertise as a speaker and educator for attorneys and CPAs. In this episode… Estate planning is often seen as a straightforward process of drafting wills and trusts, but it's more than meets the eye. The complexities, personal connections, and nuances in ensuring a family's legacy goes beyond mere paperwork. What makes an estate planning attorney stand out in such a crowded and evolving field? As a board-certified specialist in estate planning, Michael Menninger says the key lies in prioritizing relationships over documents. He highlights that the true art of estate planning is guiding clients through thought exercises that uncover unique needs and potential challenges. By taking on the role of counselor and educator, he fosters long-term connections that ensure plans remain relevant and adaptable over time. Michael emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and innovation, noting how he and his team obtain certifications and adapt to industry shifts to deliver exceptional service to their clients. In this episode of 15 Minutes, Chad Franzen sits down with Michael Menninger, Owner and Attorney at Houck Menninger Law, LLC, to discuss the art of estate planning. Michael shares his approach to fostering client relationships, the rigorous process of becoming a certified specialist, and the challenges of starting his law firm. He also talks about balancing professional growth with personal fulfillment and offers advice for aspiring attorneys navigating the complexities of starting a legal practice.

Feras Mousilli is the Managing Partner at Lloyd & Mousilli, a law firm he co-founded that specializes in intellectual property, startup law, and technology transactions for businesses of all sizes in the US and internationally. In addition to his JD, Feras holds a BS in biomedical engineering and an MSE in computer science. A registered US Patent Attorney, Feras has served as Senior Corporate Counsel for companies like Apple and Dell, advising on intellectual property, advertising, product development, and litigating patent law at DLA Piper.  In this episode… How do you merge technical expertise with a passion for justice to create a meaningful impact in the legal arena? What does it take to build a law firm that truly empowers small businesses while challenging industry giants? According to Feras Mousilli, a registered patent attorney and specialist in law and entrepreneurship, the answer lies in empathy, collaboration, and creative problem-solving. He highlights that successful lawyers aren't just experts in the law but also skilled translators, capable of simplifying complex issues and aligning with their clients' risk profiles. Feras shares how his technical background in biomedical engineering and computer science uniquely equips him to connect with clients in the science and technology industries. By leveraging a solutions-driven approach, he and his team have achieved groundbreaking results, including defending small businesses against corporate giants. In this episode of 15 Minutes, host Chad Franzen speaks with Feras Mousilli, Co-founder and Managing Partner at Lloyd & Mousilli, to discuss how empathy and innovation redefine practicing law. Feras shares insights into building a client-focused law firm, the art of effective negotiation, and lessons learned from his international teaching experiences. Feras also gives advice to aspiring lawyers on gaining practical experience and cultivating a solutions-oriented mindset.

Amber James is the Founder, CEO, and Managing Member of New Beginnings Family Law, a firm dedicated to resolving disputes with compassion and care. In addition to helping parents resolve divorces and property division issues, Amber offers adoption, surrogacy, and estate planning services. Under her leadership, the firm has grown from its humble beginnings into a seven-figure business. It has become recognized in family law circles for its empathetic approach and commitment to minimizing the emotional impact on children.  In this episode… Families find themselves navigating complex emotional and legal issues during life-changing moments like divorce or adoption. How can attorneys provide not only legal guidance but also emotional support to ensure the best outcomes for their clients, especially children? According to Amber James, a seasoned family law attorney, the key lies in balancing empathy with clear boundaries. She highlights the importance of coaching parents to focus on their children's well-being, even amid conflict, and helping clients reframe difficult transitions as opportunities for growth. Amber also underscores the necessity of creating a safe and supportive environment for clients, particularly in cases involving domestic violence or contested adoptions, where emotions run high, and outcomes can have lasting effects. In this episode of 15 Minutes, Chad Franzen sits down with Amber James, Founder, CEO, and Managing Member of New Beginnings Family Law, to discuss her journey from music education to becoming a leading voice in family law. Amber shares how she helps clients prioritize their children's emotional health, why storytelling skills are vital for lawyers, and the strategies that helped her grow her firm from scratch to seven figures. 

Andres Mejer is the Owner of Andres Mejer Law & Associates, LLC, a New Jersey law firm specializing in helping individuals navigate the complexities of immigration law. Born in Santiago, Chile, and raised in a Spanish-speaking household, Andres has a personal connection to the immigrant experience, having faced the challenges of being an undocumented immigrant himself. As an accomplished immigration attorney, he is fluent in Spanish and Hebrew, with other areas of concentration on traffic and DUI defense, family law, and personal injury legal matters. In addition to his legal practice, Andres serves as a commissioner of the Long Branch Housing Authority and is a board member of the Monmouth Family Health Center.  In this episode… Changing careers is a decision that can significantly impact your personal and professional life. Research shows that 49% of US workers have made a dramatic career shift, with 65% considering it. However, finding your true calling can be a winding path filled with unexpected turns and revelations. What drove this episode's guest to switch his career focus from business to law and then find his niche in immigration law?  Immigration lawyer Andres Mejer forged a path from an undocumented immigrant to a notable immigration attorney, discovering his passion for helping immigrants through a series of serendipitous events. Initially pursuing a business career, Andres' life took a pivotal turn when an immigrant needing legal assistance approached him for help. Through a combination of his experiences as an immigrant and a drive to assist those facing legal challenges, Andres developed a marketing strategy resonating with the Hispanic community. He walks us through his journey, from his early aspirations influenced by pop culture to his rigorous academic pursuits that set the stage for his legal career. His innovative 953 method, designed to educate and solve complex immigration cases, exemplifies his commitment to helping immigrants navigate the legal system. In this episode of 15 Minutes, Chad Franzen hosts Andres Mejer, Owner of Andres Mejer & Associates, LLC, to discuss Andres' unique 953 system for navigating immigration law. Andres delves into his journey from self-taught practitioner to successful law firm owner, the truth behind common immigration myths, the value of client-attorney communication, and strategies for effective grassroots advocacy. 

Chelsea Pagan is a Partner at Hepner & Pagan, a boutique family law firm specializing in mediation, collaborative divorces, and premarital planning. Chelsea has always been committed to making a difference in the local community, and family law has allowed her to help families transition through complex matters while maintaining civility and focusing on issues that truly matter. Chelsea is committed to focusing her professional energy on educating people that there are alternative methods for navigating divorce without the costs and stress associated with traditional divorce litigation. In her spare time, she also serves as a scorer for Santa Clara County High School's mock trial program.  In this episode… Family law is often perceived as a field defined by courtroom battles and high-stakes negotiations. But can the focus shift to collaboration, empathy, and resolutions that benefit everyone involved? How can a compassionate approach to family law not only ease tensions but create better outcomes for clients? According to Chelsea Pagan, a seasoned family law attorney and mediator, this shift begins with fostering authentic client relationships and prioritizing resolution-based practices. She highlights the importance of understanding each client's unique needs, particularly when it comes to highly emotional issues like custody and visitation. By blending empathy with practical advice, Chelsea empowers clients to make informed decisions while maintaining their dignity and financial stability.  In this episode of 15 Minutes, host Chad Franzen speaks with Chelsea Pagan, Partner at Hepner & Pagan, to discuss building a values-driven family law practice. Chelsea shares her journey into family law, how she uses mediation to guide clients through challenging transitions, and why education and premarital planning are critical for long-term success. She also offers advice to aspiring attorneys on navigating the profession and running a law firm.

Shannon Pawley, JD, LLM, is the Managing Partner and CEO of The Estate & Asset Protection Law Firm. The firm was established to serve the legal needs of senior citizens when their health care needs increase, focusing its entire practice on elder law and estate planning matters, encompassing areas including Medicaid, VA benefits, and special needs. With a background of two decades in leadership in the legal field and a Master of Laws in Taxation degree, she co-authored Becoming the CEO of Your Parent's Life. Deeply committed to helping her clients age with dignity, grace, and independence, Shannon works tirelessly to prepare them and their families for the complexities of aging. She is also passionate about mentoring future legal professionals and empowering clients through education and strategic planning. In this episode… Many individuals don't realize the importance of proactive planning until it's too late. What steps can be taken to ensure that you and your loved ones are protected, no matter the circumstances? According to Shannon Pawley, a seasoned expert in estate planning and asset protection, the key to safeguarding your future begins with early planning and choosing the right advocates. She highlights the critical importance of understanding how estate planning starts as early as age 18, with essential documents like power of attorney, which gives a designated agent the ability to make decisions for the grantor. Shannon emphasizes that proper planning can not only safeguard assets but also give individuals and their families peace of mind, independence, and dignity during some of life's most difficult moments. In this episode of 15 Minutes, host Chad Franzen sits down with Shannon Pawley, Managing Partner and CEO of The Estate & Asset Protection Law Firm, to discuss how advocacy, education, and empathy intersect in estate planning. Shannon shares the importance of starting estate planning early, the power of collaboration over conflict, and the significance of mentorship in shaping a meaningful career. She also talks about preserving clients' voices and values through thoughtful planning.

Bennett Savitz is the Managing Attorney at Savitz Law Offices, a business immigration firm that provides immigration services to clients in the US and internationally. With over 30 years of experience exclusively in immigration law, he has served on key committees of the American Immigration Lawyers Association and taught business immigration law at New England Law School. Bennett frequently authors articles and speaks on immigration topics, offering deep insights into navigating the complexities of US immigration systems. In this episode… For businesses aiming to stay competitive in a global economy, securing top talent often means looking beyond borders. But what happens when outdated immigration systems and legal complexities stand in the way of hiring the people you need? How can companies navigate these obstacles to bring global talent into the US workforce? According to Bennett Savitz, an immigration attorney with over 30 years of experience, the key lies in planning ahead and understanding the intricacies of the process. He highlights that US immigration laws, largely unchanged since 1990, create inefficiencies and bottlenecks for businesses retaining foreign talent. By focusing on proactive strategies and leveraging automated systems, companies can mitigate the pain points caused by bureaucratic delays and quotas. Bennett underscores the importance of collaboration between legal counsel and employers, ensuring compliance while optimizing outcomes for both businesses and their employees. In this episode of 15 Minutes, host Chad Franzen is joined by Bennett Savitz, Managing Attorney at Savitz Law Offices, to discuss how companies can overcome barriers in hiring global talent. Bennett shares the challenges of navigating outdated immigration laws, the importance of visa application planning, and the critical role foreign professionals play in STEM fields. He also provides advice for employers on retaining top talent while staying compliant with immigration regulations.

Richard West is a Partner at Goodgold West Diaz Bennett & Klein, a law firm specializing in administrative law and litigation. With over 30 years of legal experience, Richard focuses on defending healthcare practitioners and other licensed professionals against disciplinary actions and advising businesses on New Jersey Consumer Fraud Act violations. He gained experience at the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs, where he directed investigations and enforced regulatory compliance, shaping his expertise in licensing and professional discipline cases. In this episode… When healthcare practitioners receive a disciplinary notice from their licensing board, it often feels like the end of the road. Panic sets in, questions pile up, and the future seems uncertain. But is every disciplinary action a career-ending event? According to Richard West, a seasoned attorney specializing in professional discipline cases, disciplinary issues can be dealt with by slowing down and approaching the situation methodically. Licensing board actions don't automatically signal the suspension of a professional's license, but they do require a well-prepared response. Richard also sheds light on common misconceptions, such as the belief that personal matters, like DUI charges, won't impact professional licensing. By addressing these misunderstandings head-on, he helps clients navigate a complex system to protect their careers. In this episode of 15 Minutes, host Chad Franzen sits down with Richard West, Partner at Goodgold West Diaz Bennett & Klein, to discuss defending healthcare practitioners facing legal challenges. Richard shares insights into the licensing process, the importance of early resolution, and how empathy drives his approach to legal advocacy. He also talks about memorable cases, lessons learned, and the key advice he gives to professionals and aspiring attorneys.