In this powerful and heartfelt episode of Business Owners Tell All: What It Takes, Jamie Seeker sits down with Kyle Bachus, co-founder of Bachus & Schanker, LLC in Denver, Colorado. From his early inspiration as a 17-year old arguing in a mock Supreme Court, to founding one of the most respected personal injury law firms in the region, Kyle shares what it really takes to build a values-driven business — one rooted in justice, service, and heart.
But this episode goes far beyond business. When Kyle’s own mother was tragically killed in a crosswalk accident, the work he had done for decades suddenly became deeply personal. That loss redefined how he practiced law, inspired his bestselling book Unthinkable, and drove him to create a victim-centered approach that supports families through grief — legally, emotionally, and practically.
Through humor, humility, and incredible insight, Kyle opens up about taking risks, betting on himself, and building a team culture grounded in empathy and excellence.
The moment a teenage Kyle realized law was his calling
Launching a law firm with $13,800 and a handshake at a Denver bar
Early business planning decisions (and the creative hustle behind them)
Betting on yourself: entrepreneurship without a safety net
Staying grounded in your “why” through rapid firm growth
Experiencing personal tragedy and the impact it had on his practice
Writing Unthinkable and redefining client advocacy in wrongful death cases
The power of empathy in law and leadership
Kyle’s perspective on legacy, service, and what it truly takes to be a business owner
💬 Memorable Quotes
“I had $13,800 from a home equity loan. We wrote the deal on a napkin at a bar and I got paid $500 a month for the first six months. That’s how we started.”
– Kyle Bachus
“Would you want to hire you? Honestly. If everything was on the line, would you hire yourself? If not, you’ve got work to do.”
– Kyle Bachus
“I was always a fixer. But some problems can’t be fixed — they can only be felt, shared, and supported.”
– Kyle Bachus, on losing his mother
“What was I going to regret more? Doing this or not doing this?”
– Kyle Bachus, on starting his firm
“You have to be willing to lose to win. You’ll never be successful if you think every day will go your way.”
– Kyle Bachus
🎁 Key Takeaways
Business is personal. The best leaders bring their whole selves to their work, even in grief.
Start scrappy, stay smart. Launching a business doesn’t require perfection — it requires passion, resourcefulness, and grit.
Build with empathy. Growth doesn’t mean losing your values — it’s a chance to embed them deeper into your culture and client experience.
Legacy isn’t what you leave behind — it’s what you build while you’re here.
