Law as a Business & Law as a Profession: Leadership in 2025 and Beyond

WE'RE BACK: In this episode of The Law and Beyond Show, host Chantal McNaught sits down with internationally respected consultant, speaker, and author Simon Tupman. After an early career as a solicitor in England, Simon transitioned into consulting and has spent over three decades helping law firms and legal professionals navigate challenges of leadership, business structure, and cultural change. His latest book, The Heart of Practice, distils insights from leaders across the UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, tackling the profession’s greatest Achilles heel: leadership. Simon and Chantal explore: The enduring tension between law as a profession vs. law as a business. Why leadership, not just management, is vital for the health of law firms. The four pillars of effective leadership: self, people, business, and community. How commercialization and pluralism shape the modern legal services industry. What it takes to shift from “being a lawyer” to “being a leader.” Why lawyers need to embrace their higher purpose of helping people and society. Along the way, Simon shares stories from his personal journey, including a surprising tale from the South of France with lessons in freedom, connection, and reflection. If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to lead in law—or how to align purpose, professionalism, and business in turbulent times—this episode offers both wisdom and practical insight. Links: The Heart of Practice — Simon Tupman – Law firm management consultant Law Chat Webcast Series — Simon Tupman – Law firm management consultant