How Participation Creates Opportunity: Laird Lile on Bar Leadership, AI & Career Growth

What if the decisions you make today could reshape your legal career for decades?In this inspiring episode, Matt Goodwin sits down with Laird Lile, one of the most respected leaders in the legal community, to explore how long-term thinking, professional involvement, and emerging technology are transforming the future of law.With decades of service on the Board of Governors and deep insight into the evolution of the profession, Lile shares timeless lessons every lawyer, law student, and professional needs to hear:In This Episode, You’ll Learn: → Why investing time into bar activities and community involvement leads to unexpected career opportunities → How long-term thinking becomes a powerful competitive advantage → The real impact of AI in the legal system — and why it functions like a “general magistrate” for judges → How demographic shifts are reshaping leadership representation → Why every lawyer should actively build influence, relationships, and visibility → The mindset that transforms a legal career from stagnant to exceptional

This conversation is a must-listen for lawyers, professionals, and leaders who want to create meaningful impact, expand opportunity, and future-proof their careers.⏱ Chapters.! 00:00 Introduction 02:48 The Power of Long-Term Thinking 05:32 Participation vs. Busyness — Why Lawyers Must Show Up 08:45 Bar Activities & Unexpected Opportunities 12:20 AI in Law: A “General Magistrate” for Judges 15:10 Laird Lile’s Legacy on the Board of Governors 17:42 Demographics & Representation in the Legal Profession 20:55 How Involvement Builds Influence & Career Growth 24:40 Advice for Lawyers: Where to Begin 28:10 Final Thoughts & Takeaways 👉 Subscribe to the Matt Goodwin Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@themattgoodwin?sub_confirmation=1🔗 Connect with Matt Goodwin: • Website → https://glpa.law/ • Linkedin→ https://www.linkedin.com/company/goodwin-law-p-a-/ • Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/themattgoodwin/?hl=en • Book a 1:1 Call → https://glpa.law/contact-us/#lawyers #legalcareers #leadershipdevelopment #LairdLile #MattGoodwin #professionaldevelopment #AIinLaw #legalprofession #careergrowth #barassociation #longtermthinking #lawleadership #BeyondTheBriefcase