Breaking the Rules of Leadership: Authenticity, Confidence & Challenging Convention with Patrick McCann

In this episode of Unconventional Wisdom About Conventional Wisdom, Kim Miller-Hershon sits down with Patrick McCann — Chief Executive of the City of London Law Society, co-founder of multiple legal diversity initiatives, former Director of Learning at Linklaters, and one of the most visible LGBTQ+ voices in the UK legal sector. Patrick brings an energizing, deeply human perspective to leadership, challenging the rigid conventions often embedded in traditional industries like law. From his early career as a lawyer navigating hierarchical systems that rewarded conformity, to simultaneously teaching aerobics classes for over two decades, Patrick shares how breaking rules, embracing individuality, and prioritizing people over positional power shaped his unconventional path. This conversation explores what leadership really looks like beyond titles, status, and traditional authority. Patrick opens up about navigating anxiety, late-diagnosed ADHD, imposter syndrome (or as he calls it, becoming an “imposter”), and the ways leaders can create environments where people actually feel seen, supported, and able to thrive. Beyond leadership, this episode dives into identity, self-awareness, inclusion, and why the most impactful leaders are often the ones willing to challenge outdated systems while staying grounded in kindness and authenticity.   We explore: - Why “follow the rules” can be some of the worst career advice you ever receive - Patrick’s unexpected journey from lawyer to sought-after aerobics instructor - The hidden class systems and hierarchies inside elite professional environments - Why great leaders focus more on people than titles, profits, or ego - The importance of recognizing and calling out people’s strengths specifically - How anxiety, ADHD, and losing things became part of Patrick’s leadership self-awareness - Why self-doubt can become self-indulgent if left unchecked Patrick’s perspective is a reminder that leadership isn’t about becoming more polished, more hierarchical, or more intimidating — it’s about becoming more yourself, more intentional, and more committed to helping others grow. If you’ve ever questioned traditional leadership models, struggled with self-doubt, or wondered how to succeed without sacrificing authenticity, this episode will leave you both inspired and rethinking what effective leadership actually looks like. Connect with me here: Website: https://www.kimmillerhershon.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kmillerhershon Newsletter: https://link.kimmillerhershon.com/widget/form/aEdmdA1W5MhoMCMfy5O8 Webinar: https://webinar.kimmillerhershon.com/?utm_source=Podcast Guest Details: Organization: City of London Law Society LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-mccann-066017207/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.