Ep 013: Balancing Acts: Parenting & Pioneering a Law Firm

In this episode, Candise Shanbron and Justin Cernitz interview Alessandra Messing and Aaron Messing. They discuss the challenges of running a successful law firm, Messing PC. Aaron and Alessandra have been together since 2010 and have dedicated their time and expertise to pro bono work championing causes such as improving diversity and inclusivity within the legal profession. They discussed the importance of collaboration, communication, and therapy to maintain a healthy relationship and the value of sussing out people's value systems and belief systems. Candice and Justin discussed the importance of being kind and taking a reasoned approach to life. At the same time, Aaron and Alessandra emphasized the importance of not being convinced by what the industry or society tells you are your options.   Here are the takeaways from this episode:   ·      Challenges in running a successful law firm, emphasizing the importance of long-term business relationships, proactive problem-solving, and understanding client goals. ·      Why conflict should be viewed as an opportunity to solve problems, and having an objective perspective is valuable. ·      How effective communication and respecting boundaries are crucial in maintaining successful partnerships. ·      How kindness and a graduated, reasoned approach to life positively impact relationships. ·      Pro bono work is essential, championing causes like improving diversity and inclusivity within the legal profession.   Quotes: “I think we kind of have to reevaluate and stop convincing law students that you have to take this cookie cutter career path because there's much more out there” – Alessandra Messing   “The biggest obstacle or hurdle was just simply, and credit to Alessandra, relearning everything about her practice and being able to be self-sufficient and not have the riches of resources that you have at Big Law." – Aaron Messing   “We're basically a bit of good cop, bad cop, and I have a lot of bark but not necessarily the litigation chops to back it up.” – Aaron Messing   “We might have a disagreement about something that's specifically work-related, but it's not like you shut the door of the office and go into the other part of the house.” – Alessandra Messing     Guest Resources: https://www.messing.law/blog-media https://www.instagram.com/messing_law/     Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices