From Courtroom to Microphone: A Lawyer’s Journey into Podcasting
When most people think of trial lawyers, they picture high-stakes courtrooms and carefully prepared legal briefs. They’re not thinking of recording studios and podcast microphones. But for Andy Goldwasser, an experienced trial lawyer, stepping into a podcast studio became one of the most impactful decisions of his career. Initially launched as a marketing tool, Andy’s podcast, Trial War Stories, has since evolved into a powerful educational platform for himself and for his fellow attorneys.
In taking this journey, he's shown us a blueprint for how podcasting can elevate your brand and attract clients….even when that’s not the original goal.
Why Andy Started Podcasting: The Unexpected “Why”
When asked why he started a podcast, Andy admitted something most entrepreneurs will relate to: “I’m not entirely sure I know why.” He thought it would be a way to build brand awareness and connect with other professionals in his field.
But what it turned into? That surprised him.
Andy found that podcasting was less about marketing himself and more about learning from the legal community. The interviews he conducted, especially one with his own father who was also a trial lawyer, became deeply emotional, authentic, and educational. “I’ve learned more from interviewing trial lawyers through my podcast than I have in 25 years of practicing law,” he said.
The Real ROI: Relationships, Reputation, and Raw Learning
Andy’s experience shines a light on an overlooked ROI of podcasting: relationship capital. His conversations have built deeper connections with respected colleagues, created legacy moments (like the conversation with his father), and offered raw insights that no CLE course could.
For professionals and small business owners, this is a vital lesson. Podcasting isn't just marketing, it's magnetic. It pulls in knowledge, trust, and relationships that last far longer than a social media post or ad campaign.
Podcasting Preparation: How Lawyers Do It Differently
One key tip for podcasting Andy shared? The pre-interview.
Before hitting “record,” Andy calls each guest. This is not to go over every detail, but to set the stage. He doesn’t want to rehearse the content. “I’m afraid if we do that, it’s not going to be an organic conversation in the studio,” he said.
For those starting their own podcast, this is gold. Structure without scripting. Curiosity without control. That’s how you keep conversations authentic while still being professional.
A Podcast Becomes a Platform for Legacy and Learning
What makes Trial War Stories truly unique is its pivot from promotion to purpose. Andy is now partnering with the Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association to provide CLE credit for the podcast and hopes to one day integrate it into law school curriculums.
This is where brand building with podcasting hits its stride—not in shouting about your business, but in creating something valuable enough to be used by others in your field.
For marketing managers and business owners, that’s a model to follow: educate first, sell second. Or, better yet, to educate so well that people come to you.
Trial Tales: Why Storytelling is Still the Most Powerful Marketing
From a baton twirler’s sexual assault case in Peru to a disability discrimination trial involving bathroom breaks, Andy’s podcast dives into gripping real-world cases. But here’s the thing: he’s not telling stories to sensationalize.
He’s telling them to educate, humanize, and connect.
And that’s the true power of podcasting. You’re not just putting content out into the world. You’re capturing conversations that matter, preserving professional insight, and building a body of work that reflects your brand and your beliefs.
Andy’s Podcasting Lessons for Every Business Owner
If you're considering launching a podcast for your brand, Andy’s journey offers some key takeaways:
1. Let Passion Lead
Start with what you love. Andy loves trials. His podcast reflects that and it shines through.
2. Structure Without a Script
Pre-interview your guests to build trust, but don’t over-plan. Let the conversation breathe.
3. Treat Podcasting as a Legacy Tool
Think long-term. What do you want this content to stand for in five years?
4. Ask Better Questions
Be present. Be curious. “Any good questioner listens,” Andy says. From everything that we have seen, he’s right.
5. Know that you have to Do the Work Or Risk Podfade
86% of podcasts don’t make it past episode 15. Why? Because people underestimate the effort. Don’t be one of them.
Final Thought: Start a Podcast, But Do It Right
Whether you're a lawyer, a local entrepreneur, or a CMO for a mid-sized brand, podcasting can be a secret weapon for client attraction, brand authority, and ongoing education. But only if you treat it like a craft.
And if you want help doing it right? That’s where we come in.
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Let's make your podcast more than marketing…
Let's make it magnetic.