Join Hannah Smith in this episode of The Market Leaders Podcast as she welcomes Bree Metherall, Chief Marketing & Business Development Officer at Stoel Rives, for a conversation on the evolving CMBDO role and what true integration between marketing and business development really looks like.

Bree shares why integration is more than an organizational structure. It's a leadership philosophy. Together, Hannah and Bree explore how curiosity, collaboration, and a shared understanding of business objectives create stronger teams, better client outcomes, and more strategic decision-making across the firm.

Tune in to discover why the future of the CMBDO role depends less on organizational charts and more on creating a culture where collaboration, strategic thinking, and commercial understanding drive firm growth.

Join Hannah Smith in this episode of the Market Leaders Podcast as she welcomes Jessica Grayson, Chief Growth Officer at Stradley Ronon, for a discussion on the evolving role of lateral hiring in law firm growth.

Jessica shares why successful lateral acquisitions begin long before a partner joins the firm and how firms can create a stronger foundation for long-term success. She discusses the importance of strategic planning, candidate experience, and setting clear expectations throughout the recruiting and integration process.

The conversation also explores the role of culture, collaboration, and accountability in helping laterals thrive. Hannah and Jessica examine what firms should be looking for beyond a portable book of business and how thoughtful integration can unlock greater value for both the lateral and the firm.

Tune in to learn how leading firms are approaching lateral growth, creating meaningful connections, and building environments where new partners can succeed.

In this special episode of the Market Leaders Podcast, Jackie Kappas interviews David Ackert—author of The Short List and co-founder and CEO of PipelinePlus—for an honest conversation about authenticity, connection, and the real work behind business development.

David shares why The Short List resonates so widely and explains how focusing on the people who matter most can transform both career growth and personal fulfillment. Jackie and David dig into imposter syndrome, rejection, and the pressure professionals feel to perform, and why leaning into genuine, meaningful relationships is the antidote.

The episode also opens a window into David’s personal world: the influence of his wife and business partner, Rebecca; his journey as a former actor and how it shaped his resilience; and the profound impact of his decade-long role as a Big Brother mentor.

The conversation ultimately reinforces a simple truth: when we lead with purpose, authenticity, and human connection, we build careers and communities that truly matter.