Grit

Guest: Brian McCarthy, Chief Revenue Officer at Rubrik

In this episode, we cover: Brian’s journey towards his first job as an adult - and why selling life insurance felt natural to him. (03:59) ... All in the family: Brian’s early years growing up in a blue-collar household, the legacy his father left behind, and how his family came together after his passing. (07:16) ... How Brian and his wife navigated their lives and careers as a young married couple - and the moment he realized he could build wealth to make a positive impact on the lives of others. (16:36) ... How Brian’s unique and humble mindset as a young VP contributed to his success at Qlik. (25:11) ... A discussion about the fear of losing and impostor syndrome - and why Brian's short time at AppDynamics had a positive influence on his professional trajectory. (31:33) ... Feeding the beast: Brian talks about finding creative outlets in and outside of work - and delves into the two buckets that first-line sales leaders fall into. (39:55) ... How the words “I love you” translate into “I desire what’s best for you” and how Brian embodies those words at his core and incorporates that into Rubrik’s company culture. (51:08) ... Why Brian loves his role as CRO - and his perspective on why grit and gratitude go hand in hand. (59:16)

Show Notes

Integrity and humility barely begin to describe Brian McCarthy, CRO at Rubrik. Brian’s story is one of hard-won progress that is bound to inspire anyone who listens. Coming from a blue-collar household, Brian has always viewed work as a gift and now takes advantage of what it has afforded him and turns it back to building strong communities.

Brian’s humble beginnings set the stage for his inspiring life story. What his family did not have in money, they made up for in an abundance of love. For that, Brian never felt like he was without and carries that with him in his life and work. In this episode, Brian talks about his upbringing and explores his professional journey. He also provides insight into why he strives to drive those around him to be the best version of themselves each day. Brian’s criteria for a good sales leader are also invaluable and worth deep consideration!

In this episode, we cover:
  • Brian’s journey towards his first job as an adult - and why selling life insurance felt natural to him. (03:59)
  • All in the family: Brian’s early years growing up in a blue-collar household, the legacy his father left behind, and how his family came together after his passing. (07:16)
  • How Brian and his wife navigated their lives and careers as a young married couple - and the moment he realized he could build wealth to make a positive impact on the lives of others. (16:36)
  • How Brian’s unique and humble mindset as a young VP contributed to his success at Qlik. (25:11)
  • A discussion about the fear of losing and impostor syndrome - and why Brian's short time at AppDynamics had a positive influence on his professional trajectory. (31:33)
  • Feeding the beast: Brian talks about finding creative outlets in and outside of work - and delves into the two buckets that first-line sales leaders fall into. (39:55)
  • How the words “I love you” translate into “I desire what’s best for you” and how Brian embodies those words at his core and incorporates that into Rubrik’s company culture. (51:08)
  • Why Brian loves his role as CRO - and his perspective on why grit and gratitude go hand in hand. (59:16)

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What is Grit?

Grit explores what it takes to create, build, and scale world-class organizations. It features weekly episodes highlighting the leaders who are pushing their companies to make a difference. This series is hosted by Joubin Mirzadegan, go to market operating partner at Kleiner Perkins, a venture capital firm investing in history-making founders.