From Volunteer to Voice: How Leadership and Influence Are Really Built with Elizabeth Hill on the Practice Playbook Podcast #562

Most people think leadership happens because someone notices you. But real influence is built when people learn they can trust you to show up, follow through, and lead when things get hard. Susan Guthrie sits down with her friend and longtime colleague Liz Hill, Director of Communications and Development at MWI and current Chair of the ABA Section of Dispute Resolution, for a refreshingly candid conversation about what professional leadership actually looks like from the inside.

Together, Susan and Liz explore what "get involved" actually means in practice, how community, visibility, and contribution intersect, and why some of the biggest career breakthroughs come from the rooms you almost did not walk into.

Whether you are brand new to your field, looking to grow your professional network, or wondering how to step into a more visible leadership role, this conversation is packed with insights you can put to work immediately.

Inside this conversation, you'll hear:

• Why real influence is built through trust and follow-through, not visibility alone
• What "get involved" actually means in practice, and how to start
• The difference between early participation and strategic leadership
• How volunteer roles build skills that transfer directly to your professional practice
• Why your "why" matters before you say yes to any leadership role
• How consistent contribution creates a personal brand and platform others notice
• What it really means to lead when the buck stops with you
• The career opportunities that open when you commit to showing up over time

Meet Our Guest

Elizabeth "Liz" Hill is Director of Communications and Development at MWI, where she focuses on elevating the visibility and impact of organizational ombuds, mediation, and negotiation services.

She also serves as Chair of the American Bar Association Section of Dispute Resolution for the 2025-2026 bar year, following years of leadership within the Section.

Liz brings more than 20 years of experience across higher education, corporate, government, and legal settings, and is known for her practical, systems-focused approach to conflict. She's especially passionate about building connections across the field and helping people navigate complex challenges with clarity and confidence.

Email: ehill@mwi.org
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethshill14/

Join The Practice Accelerator 

The Practice Accelerator is now open for monthly membership pre-registration. Designed for professionals who want more than just ideas, the Accelerator delivers structure, strategy, accountability, and a community of forward-thinking professionals who are serious about building sustainable, successful practices.

Visit https://susaneguthrie.com/accelerator to join now.

Upcoming Live Webinars with Susan Guthrie

AI That Actually Works | May 28th A practical, real-world session on how lawyers, mediators, and dispute resolution professionals can ethically and effectively use AI tools in their practices right now. No hype, just strategies you can put to work immediately.

The New Legal Frontier: AI-Driven Disputes and How You Can Lead Them | June 9th A forward-focused look at how AI is reshaping disputes, client expectations, and professional opportunities, and how you can position yourself as a leader in a rapidly changing environment.

Attend individually or bundle both and save $95. Practice Playbook listeners save an additional 20% with code Susan20 at checkout. Register at https://susaneguthrie.com/webinars.

Meet Our Creator and Host: Susan Guthrie

Susan E. Guthrie is one of the most respected voices in mediation and conflict resolution today. A nationally recognized family law attorney and mediator for 35 years, she is now a top professional coach and consultant helping dispute resolution and legal professionals build thriving, modern practices.

Susan recently appeared on The Oprah Podcast, expanding her reach to an even broader audience and highlighting her role as a trusted expert in divorce, communication, and modern conflict resolution. She is also the creator and host of The Divorce & Beyond Podcast, ranked in the top 1% worldwide, with millions of listeners and a global following.

As Immediate Past Chair of the American Bar Association Section of Dispute Resolution, Susan continues to shape the future of the profession while training and mentoring practitioners around the world.

Connect with Susan E. Guthrie

Website: https://susaneguthrie.com
Books: https://susaneguthrie.com/books
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/susaneguthrie
Instagram: @susaneguthrie and @practiceplaybookpodcast 

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