In this episode of Beyond Billables: Lessons from Top Law Firm Partners, host Stephen Rodney speaks with Julian Stait, co-managing Partner and Head of the London Litigation & Arbitration team at Milbank. Julian shares his remarkable career journey, from his early days as a litigator to leading one of Europe’s top dispute resolution teams. With over 30 years of experience, Julian discusses the skills and attributes required to succeed as a partner, the evolution of law firm management, and the role of empathy and integrity in leadership.

Julian reflects on his transition from a litigator to a partner and his journey through multiple firms, providing valuable insights into what makes a successful partner in today’s competitive legal landscape. He also touches on the importance of technology, AI, and team dynamics in shaping the future of law firms.

Expect to Learn:

1. Key skills for success as a top law firm partner, including client handling, leadership, and integrity.
2. The differences between UK and US law firms and how management structures are evolving.
3. The impact of AI and technology on the legal industry, particularly in dispute resolution.
4. How empathy and vulnerability can shape effective leadership and team collaboration.
5. Insights into integrating laterals successfully and why cultural fit matters.

Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:

[00:00] – Introduction to the episode and guest, Julian Stait

[02:26] – Julian’s journey from a classical music background to law

[04:30] – Transitioning into litigation and becoming a partner at DLA Piper

[08:56] – The key attributes for becoming a successful partner

[10:03] – Leadership and managing large teams in law firms

[15:02] – Strategic negotiation and seeing the big picture in litigation

[17:07] – Comparing success between UK and US law firms

[23:29] – Management challenges and the importance of listening and empathy

[30:31] – Balancing practice with management roles

[36:45] – Key reasons for successful integration of lateral hires

[45:21] – Mentorship and key advice received during Julian’s career

[52:01] – The role of AI and technology in shaping future law firm success

Connect with Julian Stait:

1. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julian-stait-7041b516/
2. Company’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/milbankllp/
3. Company’s Website: https://www.milbank.com/en/

Connect with Stephen Rodney:

1. LinkedIn:

In this episode of Beyond Billables, host Stephen Rodney sits down with Clare Murray, Managing Partner at CM Murray LLP, to explore what it really takes to build a successful legal practice. From founding her firm after a life-changing health event to leading with vision and heart, Clare shares candid insights into the inner workings of partnership culture, law firm leadership, and the evolving legal landscape. This conversation is a deep dive into how collaboration, accountability, and strategic thinking define success in modern legal practice.

Clare Murray is the founding partner of CM Murray LLP, a UK-based specialist law firm focused on partnership, employment law, and professional regulation. With over 20 years of leadership, Clare has built a top-ranked practice known for handling complex partnership disputes and advising senior executives and law firms. She is recognised as an Eminent Practitioner and is in the Hall of Fame in major legal directories. Clare also speaks regularly on leadership and law firm strategy, often leading discussions on partner integration, PE investment, and future-proofing law firms.

1. What truly defines a successful law firm partner beyond billable hours.
2. How Clare turned personal adversity into the foundation of a top-tier law firm.
3. Why partnership culture and collaboration matter more than ever in legal practice.
4. How private equity and AI are reshaping the future of law firms.
5. The keys to effective partner integration and the analogy of grafting vines in firm culture.

1. [00:00] – Teaser
2. [00:59] – Welcome to Beyond Billables & Introduction of Clare Murray
3. [03:19] – Early Influences: Family Background & Path to Law
4. [08:02] – Defining a Successful Partner: Collaboration, Accountability & Resilience
5. [12:51] – Remuneration Systems & Their Impact on Firm Culture and Collaboration
6. [15:25] – Lateral Hire Integration: Challenges, Optimism & Realistic Expectations
7. [19:13] – Rethinking Lateral Hiring: Emphasis on Potential vs. Portable Client Book
8. [21:52] – Coaching Laterals: The "Rocket Science" of Basic Practice-Building
9. [25:26] – Building a Practice: Internal Networks, Trust & Client Relationships
10. [27:00] – The Transition from Jobbing Partner to Leader/Manager
11. [30:04] – Leadership Tenure: Term Limits, Trust & Delivering the Vision
12. [34:30] – Strategic Growth of CM Murray LLP: Client-Led Expansion & Adjacent Services
13. [38:13] – Transformative Experience: The Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Program
14. [40:00] – Leadership Lesson: The Strength in Seeking External Help
15. [43:41] – Critical Success Factors for Laterals: Early Internal Opportunities & Culture
16. [46:30] – Looking Ahead: Future Factors Affecting Law Firm Partner Success
17. [47:14] – Private Equity in Law Firms: Curiosity, Due Diligence & Strategic Fit
18. [50:17] – The Ripple Effect: Industry Education & PE Realities for Partners
19. [52:33] – The Impact of AI: From Super-Specialist Referrals to Strategic Implementation
20. [55:41] – Clare’s Final Points: Upcoming Events on Leadership & The Glass Cliff
21. [56:08] – Closing Remarks & Thanks

Connect with Clare Murray:

1. LinkedIn:

In this episode of Beyond Billables, host Stephen Rodney speaks with David Stewart, Managing Director at Coriats Trust Company Limited. From his early legal roots in London to his transformative leadership at Olswang and current work with high-net-worth clients in the Turks and Caicos, David reflects on the dynamics of partnership, leadership, and building a successful career in law. This conversation offers a candid and insightful look at the evolution of law firm culture, the challenges of leadership, and the changing expectations for legal professionals today.

David Stewart is a seasoned lawyer and former CEO of Olswang, where he led the firm through years of growth and change. Today, he is a partner at Griffiths and Partners (now Dentons) and managing director of Coates Trust Company in the Turks and Caicos. David's career spans decades of practice in litigation and trust management, with a strong focus on collaboration, business development, and supporting high-net-worth families globally.

• Why collaboration is at the heart of successful law firm partnerships
• How David transitioned from managing litigation teams to leading entire firms
• What makes a successful lateral hire and why so many fail
• The importance of emotional intelligence and self-awareness in law firm leadership
• How legal careers are evolving in the face of AI and shifting partner expectations

• [00:00] – Teaser
• [00:53] – Welcome & Introduction to Beyond Billables & Guest David Stewart
• [02:06] – David’s Journey to Becoming a Lawyer & Early Career
• [05:06] – The Core Attributes of a Successful Law Firm Partner
• [09:54] – Moving from SJ Berwin to Olswang: Seeking Collaboration
• [11:05] – Culture & Legacy of SJ Berwin Under Stanley Berwin
• [14:31] – Integration Experiences When Moving Law Firms
• [16:54] – Reinvention at Griffiths & Partners in the Turks and Caicos
• [19:25] – Transitioning from Partner to Law Firm Leadership
• [21:31] – Qualities of Successful Law Firm Leaders
• [24:39] – Reflections on Olswang’s Merger with CMS
• [26:10] – Attributes of Success in US vs. UK Law Firms
• [29:53] – Why Lateral Hires Succeed or Fail
• [33:18] – The Insecurity of Law Firm Partners & Importance of Internal Integration
• [35:53] – Early Challenges at Olswang & Building a Litigation Team
• [37:56] – Mentors Who Shaped David’s Career
• [42:33] – David’s Approach to Mentoring Younger Lawyers
• [44:09] – Best & Worst Moments as a Partner
• [48:13] – The Challenges of Leading Olswang & Lessons Learned
• [49:44] – Reflections on What Could Have Been Done Differently
• [51:55] – The Future of Law Firms & the Impact of AI
• [54:49] – David’s Non-Negotiable Behaviours for Success
• [55:37] – One Golden Rule for Being a Successful Partner
• [56:53] – Closing Remarks & Thanks

Connect with David Stewart:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-stewart-7bb2a43/
• Company’s Website: https://www.coriats.com/
• Company’s LinkedIn:

In this episode of Beyond Billables, Stephen Rodney speaks with Philip Rodney, former Chair of Burnes & Co, about his 40-year legal career and leadership journey. From his early days as a litigator to leading the transformation of a mid-market firm into a Scottish powerhouse, Philip shares his insights on what it takes to succeed in law and leadership. He reflects on the importance of integrity, adaptability, and collaboration, while offering valuable advice for both aspiring lawyers and current leaders.

Philip retired from law in 2018 after leading Burnes through a successful merger, and now advises businesses in various sectors. He also shares his post-law journey, including writing columns for The Times and serving on various boards.

Expect to Learn

• The key attributes for being a successful partner in today’s legal market
• Why adaptability and collaboration are vital for career growth
• Insights on handling firm mergers and integrations
• Lessons on leadership from mentoring and real-life experience
• Advice for transitioning out of law and finding new career paths

Episode Breakdown with Timestamps

• [00:00] - Teaser
• [01:16] – Welcome & Introduction to Philip Rodney
• [06:01] – The Core Attributes of a Successful Law Firm Partner
• [08:57] – Leadership in a Small Firm vs. a Large Firm
• [10:20] – An "Accidental Leader": The Path to Becoming Chair
• [13:56] – Engineering a Transformational Merger with Paull & Williamson
• [16:21] – Handling Merger Integration and "Chocolate Gate"
• [18:16] – Fostering Integration in a Multi-Office Firm
• [20:46] – The Importance of Humility in a Merger
• [23:22] – The Role of Formal Integration Plans for Laterals
• [28:51] – Best and Worst Moments: The Leadership Journey & Recurring Nightmares
• [31:19] – Regrets: Balancing a Demanding Career with Family Life
• [35:11] – Key Mentors and Their Lasting Advice
• [37:53] – The Best Piece of Advice: A Good Leader is Right 7 Times Out of 10
• [41:07] – The Decision to Retire and Go "Cold Turkey"
• [43:26] – Life After Law: Journalism, Boards, and a New Career
• [49:27] – The Pros and Cons of Agile Working
• [51:30] – Three Non-Negotiable Behaviours for Hiring
• [52:50] – The One Golden Rule for a Successful Partner
• [53:37] – Closing Remarks

Connect with Stephen Rodney:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephenmrodney/
• Company’s Website: https://www.intogreatcoaching.co.uk/
• Company’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/intogreat-coaching/

Connect with IntoGreat Coaching:

• Website: https://www.intogreatcoaching.co.uk/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/intogreat-coaching/

Listening Links:

• Spotify:

In this episode of Beyond Billables, host Stephen Rodney speaks with Sarah Lee, former Head of Disputes and Investigations at Slaughter and May, about her journey through the legal profession and what it takes to become a successful partner. Drawing from over two decades at one of the UK’s top firms, Sarah reflects on the evolving nature of leadership, diversity, and culture in law. From career pivots to life after partnership, she shares lessons that go beyond the billables.

Sarah Lee spent 21 years as a partner at Slaughter and May, where she led the Disputes and Investigations Group and served on the firm’s Partnership Board. A trailblazer in diversity, she was also the firm’s first partner responsible for inclusion and held influential roles in legal recruitment and judicial appointments. Now retired from practice, she holds multiple non-executive and advisory positions across the public and non-profit sectors.

Expect to Learn

• How career detours can lead to lasting success in law
• What makes a successful law firm partner in today’s landscape
• The real impact of leadership roles on personal growth
• Why adaptability and openness are critical to legal careers
• How to plan and transition smoothly into life beyond law

Episode Breakdown with Timestamps

• [00:00] - Teaser
• [00:54] - Introduction: Welcoming Sarah Lee
• [02:10] - Sarah's Unconventional Journey to Law
• [05:41] - Defining a Successful Partner's Attributes
• [10:33] - The Transition and Reality of Being a Partner
• [16:30] - The Juggling Act of Management and Client Work
• [18:25] - Identifying Future Talent and the Importance of Resilience
• [21:36] - Firm Culture, Meritocracy, and Evolution on Diversity
• [26:25] - Stepping into Leadership: Becoming Head of Department
• [30:34] - The Success of Lateral Associates and Cultural Adaptation
• [37:55] - Best and Worst Moments of Partnership
• [41:47] - Reflections: What to Do Differently and Key Mentors
• [47:37] - Off-Ramping: Using External Roles to Transition
• [51:30] - Advice for Planning a Life Beyond Partnership
• [54:40] - One Golden Rule for a Successful Partner

Connect with Sarah Lee:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-lee-a0a2a21b7/
• Company’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rare-technology-linkedin/
• 2nd Company’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/smart-works-charity/
• 3rd Company’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/slaughter-and-may/
• 4th Company’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/islington-giving/

Connect with Stephen Rodney:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephenmrodney/
• Company’s Website:

In this episode, host Stephen Rodney sits down with Sarah Rees, a leading partner in the commercial litigation team at Blake Morgan, who shares her journey from trainee to partner. She reflects on key leadership lessons, navigating the challenges of work-life balance, and the future of law firms in an evolving legal world. With decades of experience, Sarah offers invaluable insights into managing teams, integrating laterals, and what makes a successful law firm partner.

Sarah Rees is a respected partner at Blake Morgan, a prominent national law firm, where she leads the commercial litigation team in London. With a career spanning over three decades, Sarah has played a pivotal role in the growth and success of her team, earning recognition as a leading partner in her field. She is also an elected member of Blake Morgan’s Strategy Board, where she contributes to the firm’s direction and development. Known for her practical approach to leadership and deep commitment to mentoring future legal talent, Sarah continues to shape the next generation of lawyers while actively promoting a balanced, inclusive work culture.

Expect to Learn:

• The critical skills of successful law firm partners beyond just billables
• The importance of teamwork in litigation and leadership
• The impact of agile working on work-life balance
• How AI and evolving business models are shaping the future of law firms
• Mentoring the next generation of successful partners

Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:

• [00:00] – Teaser
• [01:26] – Welcome to Beyond Billables & Introduction of Sarah Rees
• [04:41] – The Three T’s: Tenacious, Tough, Team Player
• [06:56] – Why Litigation Can Be More Forgiving for Working Parents
• [10:44] – Partnership: The Beginning of Responsibility, Not the End Goal
• [12:32] – The Transition from 'Jobbing Partner' to Law Firm Leader
• [16:27] – The Board Election Process: Manifestos and Campaigning
• [18:23] – Best and Worst Moments as a Partner
• [19:52] – The Transformational Impact of Agile Working
• [21:49] – The Pitfalls of Mandating Office Attendance
• [22:56] – Sarah's Experience with Lateral Integration via Mergers
• [27:39] – The Realities of Internal Integration for New Hires
• [30:35] – Making Friends with Clients: A Litigator's Strategy
• [32:11] – How Strong Client Relationships Build a Competitive Advantage
• [36:26] – Future Factors for Success: Agile Working, AI, and Firm Consolidation
• [39:26] – The Rise of Boutiques and New Law Firms like Keystone
• [41:39] – Three Non-Negotiable Behaviours for Team Success
• [42:53] – One Golden Rule for a Successful Partner: Just Keep Going

Connect with Sarah Rees:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-rees-5ba93211/
• Company’s Website: https://www.blakemorgan.co.uk/
• Company’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/blake-morgan-llp/

Connect with Stephen Rodney:

• LinkedIn:

In this episode, host Stephen Rodney sits down with John Balsdon, a former senior partner at Latham & Watkins and a seasoned leader in the energy and infrastructure project finance sector. John discusses his dynamic legal career, from his early days as a partner to his decision to retire and pursue a passion for photography. He shares invaluable insights into what it takes to be a successful law firm partner, leadership qualities, and the importance of emotional intelligence (EQ) in building strong professional relationships.

John also reflects on the significant moments that shaped his career, including his experience managing global projects, dealing with client relationships, and navigating the ever-evolving legal landscape. He gives an inside look at his journey from Moscow to London and his transition from practice to retirement.

Expect to Learn:

• Key attributes that contribute to success as a law firm partner
• The role of EQ in leadership and client relations
• Lessons learned from high-stakes moments in law practice
• Insights into navigating lateral moves and transitioning between law firms
• John's thoughts on the future of law, AI integration, and agile working

Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:

• [00:00] – Teaser
• [01:11] – Introduction to John Balsdon and His Legal Career
• [02:52] – The Accidental Lawyer: John's Unconventional Start
• [04:19] – The Sink-or-Swim Opportunity in Moscow
• [06:21] – The Three Key Attributes of a Successful Partner
• [09:43] – Learning the Importance of Cross-Selling in Moscow
• [11:42] – How to Inspire Teams and Take Responsibility
• [13:53] – The Brutal Art of Client Prioritization
• [15:39] – Why Moscow Was Essential for His Career Survival
• [18:47] – The Difficulties of Returning to London and Integrating
• [22:24] – Pivoting a Practice to Fit a New Firm's Culture
• [26:31] – Adapting to the High-Stakes Platform at Latham & Watkins
• [29:01] – A Lesson in Pivoting from the 1998 Russian Default
• [32:31] – Why Lateral Hires Fail: Ego vs. Curiosity
• [36:47] – How Origination Credit Really Works at a US Firm
• [40:41] – Best and Worst Moments: Growing Talent vs. Being Thrown Under the Bus
• [44:04] – Reflections and Regrets: Work-Life Balance and Early Ego
• [48:37] – The Future of Law: The Impact of AI and Agile Working
• [53:07] – Planning the Off-Ramp: From Law Partner to Photographer
• [58:24] – Three Non-Negotiable Behaviors for a Successful Team
• [58:40] – The Golden Rule for Success: Be Authentic

Connect with John Balsdon:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnbalsdon/
• Company’s Website: https://alwayslooktwice.com/
• Company’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/always-look-twice/

Connect with Stephen Rodney:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephenmrodney/
• Company’s Website:

In this episode of Beyond Billables, Stephen Rodney is joined by Simon Bushell, the Founding Partner at Seladore Legal, a conflict-free litigation boutique. Simon shares his journey through top UK and US law firms before founding his own firm. With over 30 years of experience in commercial litigation and fraud cases, Simon discusses the key attributes of successful law firm partners, the challenges of integrating into different firm cultures, and the unique skills required for litigators and transactional lawyers. This episode offers a wealth of insights for anyone in the legal field, especially those looking to understand the transition to partnership and leadership.

Expect to Learn:

• What it takes to become a successful partner and remain one
• How drive, ambition, and firm culture shape a partner's career
• The importance of client relationships and understanding firm dynamics
• Why transitioning to a boutique litigation firm requires different skills
• How to build a successful legal team and avoid common integration pitfalls
• The role of emotional intelligence and psychology in successful litigation

Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:

• [00:00] - Introduction to Simon’s Career
• [02:59] - What Defines a Successful Partner
• [04:47] - The Role of Drive and Background
• [06:42] - Differences in Firm Cultures
• [09:37] - Integration Challenges in New Firms
• [12:33] - Attributes for Litigators vs. Transactional Lawyers
• [16:45] - Building Celador Legal
• [21:28] - Best and Worst Moments as a Partner
• [23:54] - Mentorship, Negotiation & Team Building
• [31:04] - Lateral Moves and Misalignments
• [41:22] - The Future with AI and Confidentiality Risks
• [46:42] - Final Golden Rule

Connect with Simon Bushell:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simonbushellseladore/
• Company’s Website: https://seladorelegal.com/
• Company’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/seladore-legal/

Connect with Stephen Rodney:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephenmrodney/
• Company’s Website: https://www.intogreatcoaching.co.uk/
• Company’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/intogreat-coaching/

Connect with IntoGreat Coaching:

• Website: