April Collins, founder of Collins Law, LLC, recently appeared on PILMMA's Grow Your Law Firm podcast with host Ken Hardison, in an episode titled "From Basement Startup to Firm Growth With April Collins" released on August 7, 2026. The appearance matters because it underscores the critical role of business acumen and mentorship in the legal profession, particularly for minority-owned firms competing in saturated markets. Collins's journey from operating out of her basement to purchasing her own office building serves as a tangible example of how targeted mindset shifts and strategic investments can propel a law practice to new heights.
During the episode, Collins discussed overcoming trust barriers to hiring more staff and an associate attorney, choosing where to invest income, and standing out in a competitive market by embracing what makes you unique. She emphasized that making client service a top priority and embracing AI tools company-wide were pivotal to her firm's growth. Collins credited PILMMA with significantly developing her business skills over the past several years. "The mindset is the first thing that I had to change, and to learn to develop into a businesswoman," Collins said. "I didn't have a business background, I didn't have family members who ever owned big businesses or went to law school, so I had to learn."
She noted that this learning curve was especially challenging in Birmingham, a highly competitive market for injury attorneys. "I had to learn to lean into what makes me different instead of shying away from it," Collins said. "I learned that I can find my own strength, my own superpower in who I am, and to use the authenticity that I have to find the people who want to hire me. Because there are people who want to hire me, there are people who are looking specifically for someone like me."
Collins encouraged lawyers and business owners to adopt a growth mindset as one of the first steps in expanding their business. "If you have a growth mindset, then you're going to grow," Collins said. "And if you don't know [how to do something], find somebody that can help you, because what I've learned for the most part in this space, there are people who will help you. There are people who are here to assist." This advice is particularly relevant for underrepresented entrepreneurs who may lack traditional business networks.
To listen to the full podcast, visit PILMMA's website or search for "Grow Your Law Firm" on major podcast platforms. Collins Law, LLC is a Black-owned injury law firm with offices in Birmingham and Madison, Alabama, committed to standing up for those who've been marginalized and feel like they don't have a voice. The firm handles car accidents, truck accidents, motorcycle accidents, and other personal injury cases. For more information, Visit our website.
The implications of Collins's podcast appearance extend beyond her own firm. By sharing her experiences, she provides a roadmap for other attorneys, especially those from diverse backgrounds, to overcome barriers and achieve sustainable growth. Her emphasis on authenticity and community support highlights the value of organizations like PILMMA in fostering professional development. As the legal industry continues to evolve, insights like Collins's will be essential for firms aiming to thrive in competitive landscapes.
