Debbie Foster is back! She's the only guest to make a repeat appearance (so far!) on The Mostly Legal Podcast. Debbie shares her insights on some of the most pressing challenges law firms face today, from when (and whether) to hire a COO to rethinking firm governance for the future. She dives into why simply giving someone a fancy title like "COO" isn’t enough, how mid-sized law firms can set business leaders up for success, and the pitfalls of clinging to outdated decision-making structures. Plus, Debbie shares real-world stories of how firms are starting to use AI to revolutionize firm operations and strategic planning. From governance structure shakeups to how real change starts with honest conversations, this episode offers practical advice for law firms that want to move their firms forward.

About the Guest

Debbie Foster

Debbie Foster is the CEO of Affinity Consulting and a nationally recognized thought leader on people, strategy, efficiency, and innovation in professional legal organizations. Her 20+ years of experience, combined with a mix of strategic management and strong leadership skills, have enabled Debbie to develop a unique ability to work with law firms and legal departments to help them build a future-proof organization and to navigate the ever-changing legal services delivery landscape. Debbie consults with firms across the country helping them solve their most challenging issues. Debbie is active in the Association of Legal Administrators and the Law Practice Division of the American Bar Association.

Episode Resources

Elyssa Goldstein was the perfect guest to re-introduce our podcast and kick off our fourth season! In this episode, Elyssa describes with enthusiasm and authenticity how she has created her career path so far, starting at the front desk and working her way up to Chief Operating Officer. Along the way, she found her passion for legal management, built her leadership skills through the Association of Legal Administrators (ALA), and even managed to keep her love of music and sports alive. Elyssa, Amanda and Rob cover everything from career growth and advocating for yourself, to why working at a law firm doesn’t have to be temporary gig, and why getting involved in ALA can literally change your career.

About the Guest

Elyssa A. Goldstein

Elyssa A. Goldstein, CLM, PHR, SHRM-CP is the Chief Operating Officer of Rebenack, Aronow & Mascolo, LLP.  She began her career in legal in 2009 as a receptionist and transitioned to legal management in 2013. 

Elyssa previously served as Co-Chair of the New Jersey State Bar Association’s Law Office Management Committee, as well as on its Pandemic Task Force – Law Firm Opening and Operations Committee.  She served on the Board of Trustees of the New Jersey chapter of the Association of Legal Administrators for eight years, including one year as President. 

At the international Association of Legal Administrators level, Elyssa has served as Chair of the Membership Development Committee, as well as on the Certification Committee and 2021 Annual Conference & Expo Planning Committee.  She is currently serving on the Board of Directors and will assume the role of President in April 2026. 

In her free time, Elyssa volunteers with the New Jersey Law and Education Empowerment Project, working with middle and high school students on resumes, cover letters, scholarship essays and mock interviews. She holds a B.A. degree in music from Hofstra University.

Episode Resources

Elyssa Goldstein on LinkedIn

Rebenack Aronow Mascolo, LLP

Association of Legal Administrators