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

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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

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In this 50th episode of the Success in South Florida Podcast, host Attorney Adam Rossen sits down with Hillary Cassel, a dynamic attorney, business owner, and Florida State Representative. Hillary shares her powerful journey—from navigating law school and becoming a prosecutor to launching her own law firm and stepping into the world of politics.

Hillary’s story is one of resilience, leadership, and personal growth. She opens up about overcoming challenges in the legal profession, balancing career and motherhood, and her advocacy for mental health awareness. As a trailblazer in both law and politics, she emphasizes the importance of self-reflection, adaptability, and taking bold risks to create meaningful impact.

If you’re interested in law, politics, leadership, or mental health advocacy, this episode is packed with valuable insights on personal and professional success.

Episode Highlights:

✅ Hillary’s journey from law school to launching a thriving law firm

✅ The challenges of balancing career, leadership, and motherhood

✅ How she overcame adversity & became an advocate for mental health

✅ The power of self-reflection and adaptability in personal growth

✅ Why she took the leap into politics & her vision for Florida’s future

✅ Lessons in leadership, resilience, and making a difference

Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction

01:01 - Hillary’s Background & Early Life

03:40 - Finding Her Path in Law & Becoming a Prosecutor

10:54 - Overcoming Self-Doubt & Career Transitions

18:05 - The Challenges of Leadership & Personal Growth

25:56 - Starting Her Own Law Firm & Taking a Leap of Faith

32:12 - Mental Health Advocacy & Breaking the Stigma

40:56 - Entering Politics & Fighting for Consumer Rights

45:37 - Lessons in Resilience, Leadership & Empowerment

50:12 - How to Connect with Hillary Cassel

About Hillary Cassel:

State Representative Hillary Cassel serves Florida’s House District 101, which includes Dania Beach and parts of Fort Lauderdale, Davie, Hollywood, and Hallandale Beach. A dedicated public servant and experienced attorney, Representative Cassel has quickly become a respected voice in the Florida Legislature, championing issues that matter most to her constituents.

In her first term, Representative Cassel has been a key member of several critical committees, including the Infrastructure Strategies Committee, the Select Committee on Hurricane Resiliency and Recovery, and multiple subcommittees focused on agriculture, natural resources, water quality, energy, and cybersecurity. Her leadership has been instrumental in tackling challenges related to disaster recovery, environmental resilience, and infrastructure development.

A recognized leader in addressing Florida’s ongoing insurance crisis, Representative Cassel has sponsored significant bipartisan legislation, including:

• A bill to establish universal windstorm coverage through Citizens Property Insurance Corporation
• Measures to strengthen the state hurricane catastrophe fund and reinsurance assistance
• Initiatives to increase transparency and access to claim-related documents for insureds
• A condominium pilot program to reduce insurance costs and enhance financial stability for property insurers

Her expertise in insurance law and consumer rights advocacy has shaped her legislative work, allowing her to craft impactful policies that address real-world challenges.

Beyond insurance reform, Representative Cassel has successfully sponsored criminal justice reform bills, demonstrating her abi

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In this 49th episode of the Success in South Florida Podcast, host Attorney Adam Rossen sits down with Alvaro Freites, a seasoned entrepreneur and general contractor, who built Casa Bella Design Group from the ground up. Alvaro shares his inspiring journey—from immigrating to the U.S. as a teenager and struggling through the 2008 recession to becoming a leader in South Florida’s home renovation industry.

Alvaro’s story is one of resilience, adaptability, and perseverance. Despite facing major setbacks, including the collapse of his flooring business during the financial crisis, he pivoted, reinvented himself, and ultimately created a thriving contracting company. Now, with Casa Bella Design Group, he specializes in high-end home renovations and brings years of hands-on experience to every project.

If you're interested in entrepreneurship, business growth, or the construction industry, this episode is full of insights on overcoming adversity, managing finances, and scaling a successful company.

Episode Highlights:

✅ Alvaro’s journey from Venezuela to South Florida and into construction

✅ How he adapted after losing his business during the 2008 recession

✅ Why hard work & perseverance are key to entrepreneurial success

✅ The importance of financial discipline when running a business

✅ How Casa Bella Design Group became a leader in home renovations

✅ Lessons from the construction industry & the art of home remodeling

✅ His podcast, The Renovation Revolution, and why he launched it

Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction

01:01 - Alvaro’s Background & Early Life in Venezuela

03:26 - Adjusting to Life in the U.S. & Starting in Construction

07:50 - The 2008 Recession & Losing His Business

12:34 - Reinventing Himself as a Handyman & Rebuilding

19:09 - From Survival Mode to Becoming a Licensed Contractor

25:56 - Founding Casa Bella Design Group & Scaling Up

30:12 - The Challenges & Rewards of the Home Renovation Industry

35:18 - Lessons in Business, Leadership & Financial Management

40:56 - The Renovation Revolution Podcast & What’s Next for Alvaro

45:37 - How to Connect with Alvaro & Casa Bella Design Group

About Alvaro Freites:

Alvaro Freites is the CEO of Casabella Design Group, a premier construction and remodeling management firm based in Weston, Florida. With over 20 years of experience, Alvaro has built a reputation for delivering high-quality, elegant, and customer-focused projects. His company is dedicated to excellence in home renovation, offering top-tier craftsmanship and design expertise. Beyond business, Casabella Design Group is committed to giving back to the community, partnering with organizations like the Jason Taylor Foundation to support charitable causes.

Alvaro is also the host of The Renovation Revolution podcast, where he shares valuable insights on the construction and remodeling industry. Through the podcast, he educates and inspires homeowners, industry professionals, and design enthusiasts, covering topics such as best practices in renovation, emerging trends, and the art of home transformation. His passion for high-quality craftsmanship and elegant design shines through in every episode, making The Renovation Revolution a go-to resource for those looking to elevate their home projects.

📌 Recent Roles & Achievements:

🏠 Founder & CEO - Casa Bella Design Group

🎙 Host - The Renovation Revolution Podcast

💡 Expert in Home Renovation & Construction

Connect with Alvaro & Casa Bella Design Group

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

In this 48th episode of the Success in South Florida Podcast, host Attorney Adam Rossen sits down with Laura Vesga, a seasoned educator and school turnaround leader, who serves as the principal of North Gardens High School in Miami Gardens, FL.
Laura has dedicated her career to helping underserved student populations succeed in alternative educational settings. She brings a student-centered approach to North Gardens High, leading innovative initiatives like the first-ever Coursera Career & Technical Education (CTE) program in a U.S. high school and a Dual Enrollment partnership with Miami Dade College. Under her leadership, North Gardens High has achieved its highest graduation rate in school history.

If you're passionate about education, leadership, or school reform, this episode is full of insights on alternative education models, student engagement, and strategies for turning around struggling schools.

Episode Highlights:
✅ Laura’s journey in education leadership & school turnaround
✅ How North Gardens High serves students who struggle in traditional settings
✅ The Coursera CTE program – an innovative approach to career education
✅ Creating a student-first culture & helping at-risk youth succeed
✅ The role of special education, alternative pathways & flexible learning
✅ Strategies for leading & managing school reform effectively
✅ Lessons in leadership, innovation, and making an impact in education

Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction
01:04 - Laura Vesga’s Background & Passion for Education
02:55 - Special Education & Supporting Underserved Student Populations
05:39 - Why Traditional Schools Don’t Work for Everyone
10:08 - Transitioning to Leadership & The Challenge of School Turnaround
14:59 - Taking Over as Principal at North Gardens High
19:44 - The Unique Approach of North Gardens High School
24:33 - Creating a "Saks Fifth Avenue" Experience in Education
30:50 - How Coursera & Career Education Are Changing Student Outcomes
38:47 - The Importance of Dual Enrollment & College Readiness
42:58 - Leadership, Growth & Building Strong Educational Teams
46:38 - How to Connect with Laura & North Gardens High

About Laura Vesga:
Laura Vesga is a seasoned educational leader with extensive experience in school reform, turnaround strategies, and serving at-risk student populations. Her student-centered approach has helped countless students overcome barriers, earn their diplomas, and move on to technical training or higher education.
As Principal of North Gardens High School, Laura has launched innovative programs, including the first-ever Coursera CTE program at a U.S. high school and a Dual Enrollment partnership with Miami Dade College. In her third year as principal, she has successfully led the school to achieve its highest-ever graduation rate.

Recent Roles:

🏫 Principal - North Gardens High School
📌 Director of Special Education - KIPP Miami
📚 Principal - Charter School Associates
🎓 Education:
📚 Florida International University - Doctor of Education (Ed.D.), College of Special Education

About North Gardens High School:

North Gardens High School is a tuition-free public charter school serving grades 9-12 through age 21. With flexible scheduling options (morning & afternoon sessions), the school provides students with a customized, self-paced education, ensuring they can balance their education with work, family, or other responsibilities.

Upon enrollment, students create an Individualized Success Plan (ISP), guiding them toward earning their high school diploma with state-certified teacher support in a computer-based learning environment.

📌 Programs & Highlights:

✅ Open Enrollment & F

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In this 47th episode of the Success in South Florida Podcast, host Adam Rossen sits down with Carlos Ferreyros, a real estate attorney and founder of Ferreyros Law, PLLC, to discuss his journey in real estate law, property management, and entrepreneurship.

Carlos shares his experiences from being born in Venezuela and moving to Florida at the age of seven. He reflects on how his early exposure to different legal systems and his passion for justice shaped his decision to pursue law. Navigating law school and working through the foreclosure crisis played a crucial role in shaping his expertise in real estate transactions, contract negotiations, and property management. He also delves into the challenges and rewards of starting his own firm, building a client-focused business, and leveraging strategic partnerships for growth.

If you're in real estate, law, or looking to scale a service-based business, this episode is packed with valuable insights on resilience, business development, and leadership.

Episode Highlights:
✅ Carlos’ journey from Venezuela to South Florida and how it shaped his career
✅ How foreclosure defense and banking law led him to real estate transactions
✅ Taking the leap to start Ferreyros Law, PLLC, and growing a successful firm
✅ The importance of property management services and contract law in real estate
✅ Building strong client relationships and referral partnerships for business growth
✅ Advice for young lawyers, real estate investors, and entrepreneurs

Chapters:

0:00 - Introduction
1:30 - Carlos’ Early Life: From Venezuela to Florida
7:45 - Studying Law & Navigating the Foreclosure Crisis
14:20 - Transitioning to Real Estate Transactions & Property Management
20:15 - Launching Ferreyros Law, PLLC: Challenges & Successes
28:50 - Building a Scalable Business Through Strong Partnerships
35:00 - The Role of Leadership & Team Building in Success
42:00 - Key Lessons for Entrepreneurs & Legal Professionals
50:00 - Final Thoughts & Advice for Young Lawyers

About Carlos Ferreyros:

Carlos Ferreyros is the founder of Ferreyros Law, PLLC, a full-service real estate and property management law firm based in Doral, Florida. With over a decade of experience in real estate transactions, litigation, and contract negotiation, Carlos has helped countless buyers, sellers, landlords, and developers navigate complex legal matters.

His firm specializes in contract drafting, tenant collections, landlord-tenant disputes, loan document reviews, title closings, and more. Carlos has represented both lenders and mortgage holders in hundreds of loan modifications and short sales, making him a trusted legal resource in the industry.

As a bilingual Spanish speaker, Carlos welcomes clients of all nationalities and has worked extensively with international developers, helping them secure land, negotiate contracts, and obtain local government approvals. His expertise and hands-on approach have earned him a reputation as a go-to attorney for real estate investors and property owners.

Education:

📚 St. Thomas University - Doctor of Law (J.D.)
📚 University of Florida - Bachelor of Arts, Criminology

Connect with Carlos:

💼 Website: Ferreyros Law, PLLC
📸 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlos-ferreyros-15597a1b8/

About Rossen Law Firm:

Success in South Florida is sponsored by Rossen Law Firm. If you need DUI or criminal defense representation, contact Rossen Law Firm at 754-206-6200 or check the description for more details. Our team is here to help you navigate legal challenges and protect your future.

📞 Call Us: 754-206-6200
🌐 Website: [rossenlawfirm.com](https://rossenlawfirm.com)

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In this 46th episode of the Success in South Florida podcast, host Adam Rossen speaks with Amanda Demanda, founder of Amanda Demanda Injury Lawyers. A proud Miami native, Amanda shares her journey from growing up in a Cuban immigrant family to building a law firm that centers on serving the Hispanic community. She discusses the unique needs of Spanish-speaking clients, ensuring they receive culturally sensitive representation while empowering them to make informed legal decisions.

Amanda also shares insights on the challenges of running a law firm, the importance of trust and relationships with clients, and her innovative marketing strategies that have led to her firm’s growth and success. With a passion for justice and a commitment to community, Amanda emphasizes how discipline, resilience, and continuous learning have been vital to her career.

If you're an entrepreneur or legal professional aiming to create a thriving, community-centered business, this episode is packed with valuable insights and inspiration.

Episode Highlights:

• Amanda’s journey from growing up in a Cuban immigrant family to founding her law firm
• The importance of serving Spanish-speaking clients with cultural sensitivity
• Building trust with clients and creating a successful, community-driven practice
• Innovative marketing strategies for law firms
• The significance of discipline, resilience, and continuous learning for long-term success

Chapters:

• 0:00 - Introduction
• 1:00 - Amanda’s Journey to Becoming a Lawyer and Firm Founder
• 7:30 - Serving the Hispanic Community: The Importance of Culture in Law
• 13:00 - Building Trust with Clients and Running a Successful Firm
• 19:00 - Marketing Strategies and Law Firm Growth
• 25:00 - Discipline, Resilience, and Continuous Learning for Success
• 30:00 - Closing Thoughts

About Amanda Demanda:

Amanda Demanda, founder of Amanda Demanda Injury Lawyers, is a Miami native and passionate attorney committed to providing aggressive and personalized representation to her clients, particularly within the Hispanic community. Her firm has been built to cater to Spanish-speaking clients, with every aspect from advertising to client meetings available in Spanish.

In just five years, Amanda's firm has become a household name across Florida, and her accolades include being named one of the Top 22 Mujeres Mega Exitosas in South Florida for 2024, receiving the Golden Gavel Award for Best Outdoor Ad in 2024 and 2025, and being recognized as Best Personal Injury Lawyer by Miami Herald’s Miami-Dade Favorites in 2023.

To learn more about Amanda and her work, follow her on social media and website:

• Instagram: @AmandaDemandaLaw
• Facebook: @AmandaDemandaLaw
• Twitter: @AmandaDemandaLaw
• Website: callamandademanda.com

Success in South Florida is sponsored by Rossen Law Firm.

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