On today’s episode of The Lawyer Millionaire Podcast, host Darren Wurz welcomes Joel Ferdinand, co-founder and co-chairman of Pierson Ferdinand LLP a law firm that made headlines for launching with over 130 partners and scaling to more than 230 in under two years. But what truly sets this firm apart isn’t just its size; it’s the radical approach to building a culture-first law firm rooted in servant leadership, transparency, and a shared commitment to putting people first.
Joel pulls back the curtain on how he and his team intentionally set expectations from day one, maintain a transparent compensation system, and foster an environment where every partner knows the rules—and even the leaders are held accountable. From reimagining the dreaded partner handbook to leveraging technology that gives lawyers their lives back, you’ll hear how culture and innovation together drive not only rapid, sustainable growth, but real work-life balance and fulfillment.
 
Joel shares:

* Why clearly defined values and consistent rules make scaling smoother not harder.
* His perspective on salary openness and why you should treat your partners as equals with your policies.
* How serving your team, not just managing them, fosters loyalty, innovation, and genuine well-being in (and outside) the firm

 
Resources:

* Blinkist
* The Psychology of Money: Timeless lessons on wealth, greed, and happiness by Morgan Housel
* Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones by James Clear
* The 5Am Club: Own Your Morning. Elevate Your Life by Robin Sharma

 
Connect with Darren Wurz:

* Schedule a Call with Darren
* The Lawyer Millionaire Founders Network

* The Lawyer Millionaire: The Complete Guide for Attorneys on Maximizing Wealth, Minimizing Taxes, and Retiring with Confidence by Darren Wurz
* LinkedIn: Darren P. Wurz
* Join The Lawyer Millionaire Founders Network and Book Club for Free
* The Lawyer Millionaire Money Mastery Assessment
* Financial Advisor Decision Checklist

 
Connect with Joel Ferdinand:

* Email: joel.ferdinand@pierferd.com
* Linkedin: Joel Ferdinand
* Website: Pierson Ferdinand

 
About Joel Ferdinand:




Mr. Ferdinand is a business trial lawyer, handling sophisticated business disputes. He regularly appears in federal and state courts throughout the country. Large companies, family owned businesses, and business executives seek out his experience, which brings an assertive and practical, results-oriented approach, to help resolve their personal and professional issues. Mr. Ferdinand aggressively pursues client interests in court and the boardroom.









Among others, Mr. Ferdinand’s experience includes, appellate litigation; bankruptcy adversary proceedings; bid protests, debarments,