Mary-Ann de Mestre has created a dual vocational pathway for herself as both a legal academic and law firm owner. It's a journey she strongly feels others can replicate, in ways that make sense to them, if they are proactive, self-aware and on top of their schedules. In this episode of The Protégé Podcast, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Macquarie University academic and M de Mestre Lawyers founder Mary-Ann de Mestre to discuss managing the juggle between academic and firm-owner life, why having two different (but complementary vocational pathways) is so meaningful for her, what she's hoping to achieve with her newly launched firm, and taking a more modern approach to boutique practice. Ms de Mestre also details seeing legal education as part and parcel of her mindset as a small-business owner, how her practice aids her academic approach, how to wear multiple hats at once, creating a meaningful career journey for one's self, how those coming through the ranks can build the best career possible for themselves, asking the right questions of one's self, and redefining what a legal career can look like. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!