Episodes

  • 13 Navigating Disruption, Change, and Opportunity (Six Months In)

    13 Navigating Disruption, Change, and Opportunity (Six Months In)
    Sep 16 2024
    Change is accelerating. The Opportunities are for the taking!

    In this candid episode, co-founders Jonathan and Rob reflect on the last 6 months. They share insights into how their expectations of a fast-paced, disruptive professional services sector have played out — and how reality has surprised them. From witnessing unexpected resistance to change within the industry to the challenges and opportunities presented by technology, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at the road thus far.

    They discuss some of the matters, projects and trends that will interest anyone involved in the sector, including:
    - The rise in merger activity and the role of peer pressure in driving industry consolidation.
    - The pitfalls of growth for growth's sake versus the true need for innovation and efficiency.
    - The increasing tension between traditional business models and the demand for human and technological transformation.
    - The evolving expectations of both clients and employees, particularly in the post-pandemic landscape.

    They also discuss the exciting prospects that lie ahead, including a potential "new golden age" for services, and how smaller and mid-tier firms could leverage new technologies to compete on a larger scale.

    Join Jonathan and Rob as they forecast the next big moves in the professional services sector and raise a glass to the opportunities ahead! LinkedIn · Website · Connect with Robert on LinkedIn · Connect with Jonathan on LinkedIn
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    26 mins
  • 12 Janet Taylor-Hall | Law Beyond Lawyers - The Third Pillar of the Legal Sector

    12 Janet Taylor-Hall | Law Beyond Lawyers - The Third Pillar of the Legal Sector
    Aug 28 2024
    Disrupting the Traditional by Thinking Differently.

    Join us as we sit down with Janet Taylor-Hall, CEO and founder of Cognia Law, for a captivating conversation on the evolution of legal services.

    Janet shares her path from a "recovering management consultant" to becoming a driving force in the legal sector, creating a unique model that blends traditional law with the agility of new law.

    She introduces us to the concept of the "third pillar" of law, where New Law providers like Cognia are breaking the mould, offering a fresh approach that combines multidisciplinary expertise, cutting-edge technology, and a relentless focus on client needs. Cognia Law website · Connect with Janet Taylor-Hall · LinkedIn · Website · Connect with Robert on LinkedIn · Connect with Jonathan on LinkedIn
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    1 hr and 11 mins
  • 12 Scott Atkins | Economic Growth Maximisation

    12 Scott Atkins | Economic Growth Maximisation
    Jul 25 2024
    Re-thinking Insolvency law, clearly defining strategy and remaining curious.

    We sit down with Scott Atkins (Norton Rose Fulbright | Global Co-Head Restructuring) a visionary leader and strategist. Scott shares a refreshing and optimistic perspective on restructuring and insolvency, effective strategy, business development, remaining curious and venturing into Space. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of professional development and strategic business practices.

    From aspiring veterinary surgeon to a globally recognised leader and strategist, Scott's path to law is filled with pivotal moments and opportunities.

    Scott redefines the role of insolvency practitioners as "agents of economic growth maximisation," explaining how restructuring isn't just about resolving failures but optimising resources and driving economic efficiency.

    As the immediate past president of INSOL International, Scott led significant initiatives, including a strategic expansion into Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East. He discusses the importance of a well defined and implemented strategy and global collaboration.

    Scott shares his approach to managing diverse, cross-border teams. His leadership style, grounded in service and action, emphasises the importance of cultural sensitivity, curiosity, and fostering a sense of community.

    Despite a demanding career, Scott provides insights into how he balances his professional responsibilities with family life. He emphasises the importance of resilience and long-term perspective in achieving work-life balance.

    Scott highlights the significance of understanding client needs, bringing some much needed humanity to professional relationships, and maintaining curiosity. He also discusses the ongoing debate about the necessity of in-person interactions in the post-pandemic world.

    Join the conversation and find actionable insights and inspiring stories from a leader at the forefront of legal practice and economic strategy. Connect with Scott on LinkedIn · LinkedIn · Website · Connect with Robert on LinkedIn · Connect with Jonathan on LinkedIn
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    1 hr and 23 mins
  • 11 Harkirat Singh | I was an AI Sceptic. I am not anymore!

    11 Harkirat Singh | I was an AI Sceptic. I am not anymore!
    Jul 9 2024
    Navigating AI from someone who knows.

    With Harkirat Singh (Palantir Technologies UK | Technical Director)

    “AI isn't just about the tech; it's about generating real operational value.”
    “Flexibility is key—being able to swap out models and adapt quickly will define successful AI integration.”

    In this episode, hosts Rob and Jonathan sit down with Harkirat Singh, a veteran software engineer and AI expert from Palantir Technologies. We delve into the transformative power of AI, large language models, and the strategic integration of these technologies in enterprises. Here's what you can expect from this episode:

    Understanding AI's broad definition and its progression from simple machine learning models to sophisticated large language models (LLMs).
    The importance of AI in generating operational value and solving real-world problems.

    Insight into the role of AI in professional services, particularly in legal and engineering sectors.
    The challenge of integrating AI into traditional business models and the potential disruption of white-collar jobs.

    The necessity of adopting a decentralised approach to AI implementation to maximise operational efficiency and innovation.
    Why quick, iterative value delivery is crucial for successful AI adoption in enterprises.

    Common pitfalls in AI adoption, including over-reliance on centralised data strategies and the need for precise problem selection.
    How to demonstrate rapid, hands-on value creation, or Time to Value.

    Predictions on the rapid advancements in AI, including multimodal capabilities and improved precision.
    The importance of flexibility in AI models and the potential for dynamic, software-defined business transformations.

    Takeaways for Business Leaders:
    Embrace decentralised strategies to leverage AI effectively.
    Focus on delivering rapid, demonstrable value to ensure sustained support and investment.
    Stay flexible with AI solutions to incorporate the best technologies as they evolve. Connect with Harkirat on LinkedIn · LinkedIn · Website · Connect with Robert on LinkedIn · Connect with Jonathan on LinkedIn
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    1 hr and 9 mins
  • 10 Change in Law Firms: The Importance of Organisational Design

    10 Change in Law Firms: The Importance of Organisational Design
    Jun 29 2024
    In an environment of disruption, a law firm must be designed for agility.

    Join hosts Jonathan and Robert as they tackle the evolving landscape of the legal sector. They delve into the critical topic of whether the traditional law firm partnership model can withstand the rapid technological advancements and disruptions of today's world. With a focus on organisational design, they explore how law firms must adapt to maintain a competitive edge.

    Key Points:
    1. The traditional law firm partnership model and its scrutiny in today's disruptive environment.
    2. How AI and large language models (LLMs) are reshaping the legal industry.
    3. The necessity for law firms to realign their structures with strategic goals for enhanced agility, communication, and resilience.
    4. Drawing parallels from the photography industry's shift from film to digital, highlighting the importance of adaptability.
    5. The significance of continuous improvement and fostering a culture of innovation within law firms.

    Takeaway:
    In a rapidly changing environment, law firms must reevaluate their organisational design to remain agile, responsive, and competitive. The shift towards integrating AI and rethinking traditional structures is crucial for future success. LinkedIn · Website · Connect with Robert on LinkedIn · Connect with Jonathan on LinkedIn
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    37 mins
  • 09 Richard Oakes | Energetic and Courageous Leadership - a better version of yourself

    09 Richard Oakes | Energetic and Courageous Leadership - a better version of yourself
    May 23 2024
    Empowering the individual to drive change within organisations.

    Our guest in this, our first long-form episode, is Richard Oakes, CEO of The O10 Group. Oh, and he just happens to be a 5 times UCi World Cycling Champion as well. So, no pressure!

    In the episode Richard and Jonathan discuss the importance of neuroscience and individual mindset in driving organisational change, particularly in the legal sector. We explore how leaders' inner narratives, authenticity, and energy can influence their ability to lead change effectively. Our discussion covers topics such as creating a compelling vision, embracing a growth mindset, maintaining physical and mental well-being, fostering team collaboration, and recognising the human element in change management. Our conversation emphasises the need for courage, empathy, and a genuine desire to help others succeed in navigating the challenges of change. Richard highlights the significance of aligning individual mindsets and behaviours with organisational goals to achieve sustainable transformation.

    Richard has held senior level leadership roles in some of the world's most progressive professional services and retail businesses. He has delivered change projects and has a proven track record in re-connecting strategy, leadership behaviours and bottom line results. He has worked with clients in major financial institutions, FTSE 100 and Fortune top 50 organisations. His work has been part of a Harvard Business school case study. Richard is a leading thinker on change in the professional services market and has lectured in the US, Asia, Europe and Australia on the subject.

    Richard is also the co-founder and rider for Team Ohten Aveas the world’s fastest masters cycling team. Richard has 4 UCI world titles and 2 world best times. Visit the Ohten Group Website · Connect with Richard on LinkedIn · LinkedIn · Website · Connect with Robert on LinkedIn · Connect with Jonathan on LinkedIn
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    2 hrs and 1 min
  • 08 Rebecca Price | Your People Matter - Now more than ever!

    08 Rebecca Price | Your People Matter - Now more than ever!
    May 1 2024
    Employer Brand - is there a more important strategic imperative in 2024?

    In this episode Rebecca Price, strategy partner, co-founder and co-owner of Frank Bright & Abel, a creative communications consultancy, that specialises in B2B and works extensively across the legal sector, talks to co-hosts Rob Otty and Jonathan Otty about the importance of getting your Employer Brand right. Employer Brand has never been more important - done right, it provides a huge advantage in your recruitment and retention of the best talent and in delivering commercial success. Employer brand is not a "soft" issue - indeed there can be no more "hard" strategic issue for companies and law firms to get right. As the pace of change gets ever faster, and as generational differences become an increasing feature within organisations, a well defined Employer Brand creates both strategic advantage and the institutional "glue" that allows your business to adapt, flex and continue to succeed.

    Rebecca shares her years of experience and learnings from multiple sectors, with a special focus on the legal sector. This episode is a must-listen for not only leaders, but all partners and team members who have an interest ensuring the success of their firm. It is the second in a two part conversation with Rebecca and reinforces the important link between external brand, which was covered in the previous episode, and Employer Brand. Strategic advice and guidance of the highest calibre from a leader in her field. Research mentioned in the episode can be found on the FBA website · Connect with, and follow, Rebecca on LinkedIn. · LinkedIn · Website · Connect with Robert on LinkedIn · Connect with Jonathan on LinkedIn
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    50 mins
  • 07 Cognitive Dissonance | What Law Firms battle to Change.

    07 Cognitive Dissonance | What Law Firms battle to Change.
    Apr 22 2024
    Cognitive Dissonance, Hubris, Scepticism and other blockers to change.

    Join us as we explore the concept of cognitive dissonance within the legal industry, where firms recognise the need for change but remain rooted in traditional practices and the billable hour model.

    We discuss the tension between understanding the need to adapt and being entrenched in models that have historically guaranteed profitability, drawing parallels with the case of Kodak's failure to capitalise on digital innovation.

    We look at the underlying commercial unit of measurement that constrains law firms, the internal barriers to change, how the legal sector is a vast ecosystem of vested interests that mean now, more than ever, law firm managers need to carefully review the advice they are receiving, and how law firms are increasingly facing the risk of finding themselves misaligned with their clients expectations.

    Finally we look at the tremendous opportunities that present to traditional law firms to adapt and innovate to not only protect their position of dominance, but thrive in the new world of technologically enabled legal service. LinkedIn · Website · Connect with Robert on LinkedIn · Connect with Jonathan on LinkedIn
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    42 mins