In this thought-provoking 53rd episode of Success in South Florida, host Attorney Adam Rossen talks with Jeffrey Bast, a leading business litigation and bankruptcy attorney, entrepreneur, and co-founder of Bast Amron LLP. Jeffrey shares his inspiring professional journey—from big law to building one of Florida’s most innovative boutique firms—while offering a fresh perspective on leadership, legal tech, and the future of law.

With over two decades of experience in complex commercial litigation, Jeffrey dives into what it really takes to lead a high-performing legal team, the critical importance of communication and clarity in the workplace, and how artificial intelligence is transforming legal practice, without replacing the human touch.

Whether you're a new attorney, a law firm leader, or someone navigating career pivots, this episode is packed with real-world wisdom and actionable takeaways for building a purpose-driven career in law and beyond.

Episode Highlights:

✅ Jeffrey’s journey from BigLaw to founding Bast Amron LLP

✅ The mindset shift from lawyer to entrepreneur

✅ The power of clear communication in law firm culture

✅ Why lawyers who use AI will replace those who don’t

✅ How empathy and strategy can solve deeper client needs

✅ Advice for young professionals facing adversity or starting from scratch

Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction

01:18 - Meet Jeffrey Bast: From Law Firm Associate to Founder

06:34 - Shifting Mindsets: Communication, Leadership & Team Building

12:15 - AI in Law: Opportunity or Obsolescence?

20:49 - Empathy vs. Routine: What Clients Really Need

29:30 - Future-Proofing Your Legal Career

38:00 - Words of Wisdom for Young Lawyers & Entrepreneurs

46:12 - How to Connect with Jeff Bast

About Jeffrey Bast:

Jeffrey Bast has been practicing in the areas of insolvency and litigation for over 25 years. He guides clients through a wide range of bankruptcy-related matters, including corporate reorganization, workouts, and liquidation, with an emphasis on avoiding bankruptcy when possible. Jeff represents corporate and individual debtors, trustees, creditors’ committees, and secured and unsecured creditors in reorganizations and litigation.

Before co-founding Bast Amron LLP in 2009, Jeff was an equity partner at two international law firms: Hunton & Williams and Holland & Knight. He previously clerked for federal judges in both Texas and Florida. His firm, Bast Amron, is now widely recognized as one of South Florida’s leading boutique firms in commercial litigation and insolvency.

Jeff is a frequent speaker and author on insolvency issues both in the U.S. and abroad. His work and leadership have been recognized by Best Lawyers in America, Chambers and Partners, Martindale-Hubbell, and Florida Super Lawyers.

About Bast Amron LLP:

Bast Amron LLP is a Miami-based boutique law firm focused on commercial litigation, business reorganization, and insolvency. The firm is known for its client-centered approach and innovative strategies that drive results for businesses and individuals facing complex disputes.

Connect with Jeffrey Bast:

🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffreybast-insolvencylitigator/

🎧 Podcast: The Practice by Bast Amron LLP ( BastamronThe Practice Podcast


The Practice Podcast



bastamron.com/news/the-practice-podcast )

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In this inspiring 52nd episode of the Success in South Florida Podcast, host Attorney Adam Rossen sits down with Dr. Rachel Docekal, a seasoned leader in the fields of philanthropy, addiction recovery, and community development. Dr. Docekal shares her remarkable journey. From leading the nation's most extensive continuum of behavioral health services to pioneering innovative programs for veterans, pregnant women, and families, Dr. Docekal is reshaping how we approach addiction, mental health, and healing.

With over 20 years of experience in leadership roles, Dr. Docekal discusses her unique approach to shifting from “what is present to what is possible” and the key initiatives she is driving at the Hanley Foundation, including groundbreaking programs like Casa Flores, the Patriots Program, and Hanley’s Family Program for Children.

Whether you're interested in leadership, helping those with addiction, or community-building, this episode is packed with wisdom and actionable insights from one of South Florida’s most influential leaders.

Episode Highlights:
✅ Dr. Docekal’s journey from philanthropy to addiction recovery
✅ Leading Hanley Foundation's $35M capital campaign
✅ Groundbreaking programs: Casa Flores, Patriots Program, & Family Program for Children
✅ The importance of shifting from “what is present to what is possible”
✅ How to support addiction recovery through community and policy
✅ Balancing leadership with personal values and mission-driven work

Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction to Dr. Rachel Docekal & Her Vision
07:07 – Expanding Hanley’s Treatment Services
10:40 – Hanley’s Leadership in Behavioral Health and Innovation
13:05 – Developing Programs for Specific Populations
18:22 – The Role of Partnerships in Hanley’s Work
22:10 – Collaboration with Government and Local Agencies
26:20 – The Importance of Support Systems in Addiction Recovery
37:10 – The Role of Family Support in Recovery
46:00 – Building Long-Term Strategies for Addiction Recovery
50:00 – Hanley’s Work with Vulnerable Populations
52:10 – The Importance of Holistic Treatment Approaches
56:20 – Success Stories from Hanley Foundation Programs
58:30 – Closing Thoughts on Behavioral Health Innovation

About Dr. Rachel Docekal:

Dr. Rachel Docekal is a philanthropist and leader with over two decades of experience in nonprofit management and community development. She is the former Managing Director of Lyrae Group, a firm focused on philanthropy, and the current chair-elect of the Palm Beach County Criminal Justice Commission. Dr. Docekal’s expertise in leadership, mentorship, and community service continues to shape Hanley Foundation’s efforts to combat substance use disorders and provide innovative, evidence-based treatment options.

Dr. Docekal is leading Hanley Foundation in a monumental $35 million campaign to transform addiction treatment through new programs that support both individuals and families. Her efforts, including the launch of Casa Flores, the Patriots Program, and Hanley’s Family Program, are shaping the future of addiction recovery in the U.S.

Dr. Docekal holds a Doctorate in Education and has been recognized as one of South Florida Business Journal’s 25 Most Influential Women in 2012.

About Hanley Foundation:
The Hanley Foundation is dedicated to transforming the landscape of addiction treatment and recovery. Through prevention, advocacy, treatment, and recovery support, Hanley Foundation is leading the charge to reduce stigma, provide holistic treatment, and offer support to those affected by substance use disorder.

Connect with Dr. Rachel Docekal:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-docekal/
Facebook: https://ww

Learn more about Adam & the Rossen Law Firm at https://www.rossenlawfirm.com/

In this 51st episode of the Success in South Florida Podcast, host Attorney Adam Rossen sits down with Erika Buenaventura, a powerhouse relationship-builder and the Regional Director of ProVisors South Florida. Erika opens up about her incredible journey—from immigrating to the U.S. at age 12 with no English, to growing the fastest-growing ProVisors region in the country with over 440 members in just three years.

With deep roots in leadership, mentorship, and service, Erika shares what it takes to build genuine community, how faith and family drive her success, and the importance of stepping outside your comfort zone to grow personally and professionally.

Whether you’re a business leader, aspiring networker, or someone who values meaningful connections—this episode is full of wisdom, heart, and inspiration.

Episode Highlights:

✅ Erika’s immigration story and how it shaped her drive

✅ Leading the fastest-growing ProVisors region in the U.S.

✅ How she built 440+ member groups from the ground up

✅ The role of trust, empathy, and discipline in leadership

✅ Balancing motherhood, coaching, and professional growth

✅ Why stepping out of your comfort zone fuels transformation

Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction

00:43 - Meet Erika & Her Role in ProVisors

03:51 - Building a New Region From Scratch

06:19 - Strategies for Growth & Group Leadership

10:23 - Overcoming Challenges & The Importance of Trust

15:22 - Erika’s Immigration Story & Resilience

19:57 - Lessons in Discipline, Faith, and Family

25:49 - Mentorship, Teamwork & Leadership Philosophy

33:57 - Coaching, Parenting & Staying Grounded

42:57 - Advice on Growth, Confidence & Taking Chances

45:32 - How to Connect with Erika & Learn About ProVisors

About Erika Buenaventura:

Regional Director, ProVisors – South Florida

With 20 years of experience in sales, relationship-building, and leadership, Erika has dedicated her career to forming lasting connections that go beyond business transactions. As the Regional Director for ProVisors South Florida, she leads an invitation-only network of senior-level professionals who serve their clients as Trusted Advisors.

In just three years, Erika has grown the South Florida region to over 440 members—making it the fastest-growing ProVisors region in the country.

Her career began at AT&T in 2006, where she quickly rose to leadership roles and contributed to major initiatives like Project Velocity. Erika is a top-performing, award-winning salesperson known for her integrity, drive, and empathy. She recently earned her Certified Professional of Business Relationships certification, further strengthening her ability to lead and mentor others.

Erika’s leadership style is rooted in trust, community, and empowering others. She believes great leaders are great listeners—and that success is a team sport.

Originally from Peru, Erika immigrated to the U.S. at age 12 and grew up in Plantation, Florida. She is a proud mom of two and an active youth volleyball coach. When she’s not building networks or mentoring professionals, you’ll find her playing beach volleyball, traveling with family, or leading with faith and heart.

Connect with Erika:

LinkedIn – Erika Buenaventura

Email: erika@provisors.com

Phone: 954-551-0884

About Rossen Law Firm:

Success in South Florida is sponsored by Rossen Law Firm. If you need DUI or criminal defense representation, contact us today at 754-206-6200 or visit rossenlawfirm.com. We help good people when bad thing

Learn more about Adam & the Rossen Law Firm at https://www.rossenlawfirm.com/