Rebuilding After Burnout
After working in litigation and managing 50+ cases at a time, attorney Steve Rausch realized he preferred a more proactive role—helping people avoid legal problems before they happen. That shift led him to launch Capital City Law in 2009, focused on estate, will, and trust planning.
But building a business was unfamiliar territory. “When you go to law school, they teach you how to be a lawyer, not a business owner,” Steve said. Following a personal upheaval and a period of uncertainty, a colleague referred him to Deliberate Directions. He wasn’t sure what to expect—but knew something had to change.
Lacking a Clear Direction
Steve was passionate about his practice, but overwhelmed. His office was cluttered, his energy scattered, and the direction of Capital City Law felt unclear. He lacked structure, a hiring plan, and a clear vision for the future.
In his early coaching sessions with Allison Dunn, he found something unexpected: space to be vulnerable, and someone who brought both business acumen and empathy to the table. “Allison’s confidence allowed me to go deeper into what was holding me back.”
Creating Space to Grow
Allison’s coaching started with the basics—literally organizing the office with bins to help Steve reclaim physical and mental space. From there, they tackled hiring, office systems, strategic planning, and long-term vision.
Coaching evolved as the business did. When Steve’s team expanded, Allison guided hiring decisions. When Steve and his assistant Molly later married, they restructured again. Throughout every stage, Allison served as both sounding board and strategist.
“She brings this wealth of experience from different aspects and places,” Steve said. “She gained good and painful experience that made her stronger—and that’s what she brings into her coaching.”
A Calmer, More Confident Practice
Over time, Steve transformed his firm into what he had envisioned: a focused, calm, and meaningful law practice. Even during the challenges of the pandemic, coaching helped him stay grounded and adjust marketing to stay relevant.
He credits Deliberate Directions not just with practical progress, but also with helping him rediscover confidence as a business leader. “She’s approachable, genuine, and genuinely cares to see the business succeed.”
A Trusted Business Ally
Today, Steve continues to work with Allison—not out of necessity, but because the partnership keeps delivering value. He describes their relationship as a blend of accountability, honest feedback, and mutual respect.
“Allison is a part of my story and a valuable friend,” Steve said. “It really does help to know who you know.”
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