Join us for an insightful conversation with Dan Glasser, a commercial litigator. Dan shares his journey of founding his own firm in 2009 and the invaluable people lessons he's learned along the way. He reflects on the challenges of losing employees, the importance of investing in people's growth, and the rewarding experience of seeing former colleagues thrive.
Dan discusses the intersection of his deep-rooted faith and professional life, revealing how his spiritual journey has influenced his company's values and culture. Emphasizing the need for humility and genuine care in both personal and professional relationships, he describes the transformative impact of living authentically in one's beliefs while leading a business.
Tune in to explore the themes of trust-building, personal transformation, and the enduring power of fostering abundance in the business world.
0:03 – 1:07 – Introduction
Steve introduces the Sharpen Podcast and Acumen’s mission: growing top/bottom lines and enriching life stories. He introduces Dan Glasser, a commercial litigator and Acumen member, noting his passion for people and leadership beyond legal work.
1:07 – 2:47 – Background & Firm Growth
Dan shares his career path—starting his own firm in 2009, partnering with Dave Chipman in 2011/2012, and building a larger operation. Lessons learned from hiring, growing staff, and managing people.
2:53 – 4:26 – Challenges & “Scars”
Dan discusses the difficulty of losing valued employees when his purpose was to “elevate people.” Early on, he struggled when growth for some meant leaving the firm.
4:49 – 6:33 – Learning to See Through Others’ Lenses
A story about an employee struggling with depression and substance abuse taught Dan to avoid judging through his own life experience and instead meet people where they are.
6:59 – 9:26 – Faith & Leadership
Dan reflects on integrating faith with a legal practice: personal spiritual growth, virtues, and disciplines lead to better listening and care for those closest to him, including at work.
9:45 – 12:23 – Becoming Overt About Faith
After a partner’s departure, Dan became more open about his faith, creating a statement of belief for the firm—clarifying his values while welcoming all perspectives.
12:28 – 13:56 – Impact on Client Relationships
Dan’s goal: clients should sense something different in how the firm serves, even without overt religious branding.
14:05 – 17:36 – Balancing Excellence & Faith in Business
Steve and Dan discuss being a Christian in business without heavy-handed evangelism—focusing on trust, relationships, and excellent service as a testimony.
17:36 – 21:05 – People “Wins” Over Time
Dan shares rewarding stories of former employees thriving after leaving—proof that investing in people can bear fruit years later.
21:10 – 23:14 – Humility & Letting Go of Ego
Dan talks about learning humility through “hard knocks,” seeing people as entrusted for a season, and releasing control over outcomes.
23:18 – 25:29 – Acumen’s Role & Final Reflections
Steve praises Dan’s openness, wisdom, and transformation. Key themes: seeing the world through others’ lenses, aligning inner spiritual life with outer leadership, and living out the firm’s core value—“elevate people and foster abundance.”
25:31 – 26:02 – Closing
Podcast wrap-up with Acumen contact info and encouragement for CEOs to join peer teams.