In 1958, one article changed how lawyers got paid. We’re here for the next change.
The 1958 Lawyer Podcast
The 1958 Lawyer is a podcast about the business of law — how solo and small firms actually grow, market, hire, and run a practice. Real attorneys, real numbers, honest conversation. Hosted by Ron Bockstahler, founder of Amata Law Office Suites.
“The 1958 Lawyer and His 1938 Dollar.”The American Bar Association pamphlet that gave this show its name — and helped launch the billable hour.
The last time the business of law really changed.
Before 1960, most legal work was billed by the project. Then the ABA published a now-famous pamphlet arguing that lawyers were falling behind — and the billable hour was born. It reshaped how every firm in America made money.
That was the last major change to the business of law. More than 60 years ago. We think it’s past time for the next one — and this show is where we work it out, one honest conversation at a time.
What is The 1958 Lawyer? It’s a podcast about the business of law for solo and small firms — growth, marketing, staffing, and the realities of running a practice — hosted by Ron Bockstahler, founder of Amata Law Office Suites and a Chicago Bar Association partner.
The latest episode
Episodes worth your commute.
Rakesh Parikh: Valuation, Exit Planning, and the Hidden Power of Your Law Firm’s Address
Building a Firm That's Truly an Asset — De-Risking Your Business for a High-Value Exit And a possible episode title/tagline to match the style…
Listen now → ▶ July 14, 2026Erin Guthrie: Turning Your Law Firm into a Valuable, Exit-Ready Asset
Most lawyers assume their practice ends the day they stop practicing—this episode with Erin Guthrie of Exit Factor Chicago Downtown makes the case for…
Listen now → ▶ June 25, 2026Rick Rivero: Turning SEO into Answer Engine Optimization for Law Firms
AI search has changed how clients find lawyers online, and most law firm websites are still built for a Google that no longer exists.…
Listen now →Doing law differently? Come talk about it.
We’re always looking for attorneys and legal professionals with a real story about the business of law — what worked, what didn’t, and what you’d tell someone starting out.
Or call us — 312.924.0200