Howard Rosenberg Interviews Stephen Zubiago, Managing Partner and CEO, Nixon Peabody

In this episode of The Future Is Bright podcast, Howard Rosenberg, head of Talent Intelligence + Acquisitions at Baretz+Brunelle, and his co-host Chris Batz welcome Stephen Zubiago, managing partner and CEO of Nixon Peabody, a leading Am Law 100 firm known for its deep bench in financial services, affordable housing, healthcare, and technology. With over two decades at the firm, Stephen shares how Nixon Peabody has built a culture of collaboration, innovation, and strategic clarity while positioning itself for continued growth in an evolving legal landscape.

In a wide-ranging conversation, Stephen reflects on his leadership journey, the firm’s forward-looking growth strategy, and how Nixon Peabody is addressing modern pressures from talent acquisition and lateral hiring to artificial intelligence in legal services. This episode is a candid look at what it takes to lead a national law firm while balancing profitability, scale, and culture.

Episode Highlights:

• Growth With Purpose, Not for Growth’s Sake
  Stephen outlines how Nixon Peabody is expanding its industry depth and service breadth while remaining selective and strategic. From affordable housing to technology law, the firm is focused on growing where it already excels.
  
  
• Creating a Culture Where Talent Thrives
  Learn how Nixon Peabody differentiates itself in a hypercompetitive talent market. Stephen shares how a collaborative, flexible culture—backed by robust internal training—helps attorneys take ownership of their careers and succeed.
  
  
• Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Legal Work
  Stephen shares the firm’s approach to embracing technological disruption. From document review to strategy, AI is reshaping how legal services are delivered—and how Nixon Peabody is leaning in.
  
  
• Leadership in Times of Uncertainty
  From navigating industry shakeups to adapting to remote work policies, Stephen discusses how the firm emerged stronger by listening to its people, reaffirming its values, and building a modern workforce ready for what’s next.

About the Podcast:

On The Future Is Bright, Howard Rosenberg and Chris Batz engage with thought-provoking C-suite executives and leaders from corporations, professional service firms, and the global legal industry. Each episode uncovers insights on leadership, innovation, and the evolving dynamics of the modern professional landscape.

You can subscribe to The Future is Bright Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and PodBean.