Chrissy McGarry on Leaders LIVING Their Values

Description

Get ready for an inspiring conversation with Chrissy McGarry, COO of Second Front Systems, as we dive into what it really means for leaders to LIVE their values! From pioneering remote work in the defense tech industry to championing core values like mission, curiosity, flexibility, and vigor—Chrissy shares her unique journey from the beverage industry to national security, the evolution of a groundbreaking startup, and actionable insights for life and leadership. Whether you’re curious about breaking into new industries, building resilient teams, or leading with authenticity, this episode is packed with stories, strategies, and takeaways you won’t want to miss. Hit play and join us on this leadership masterclass!

Summary

Chrissy McGarry, COO of Second Front Systems, a national security software company, discusses the firm’s remote operations and its $40 million Series B funding led by NEA. Second Front Systems’ dev sec ops platform streamlines the accreditation process for commercial tech on government networks. The company, founded by three former Marines, has over 40 applications and 15,000 users. Chrissy emphasizes the importance of mission, curiosity, flexibility, and vigor as core values. She highlights the company’s virtual collaboration tools and annual on-sites for team building. Chrissy also shares her journey from the beverage industry to defense tech, advocating for career growth through curiosity and stepping outside comfort

Quotes

* “Persistence beats resistance, so you have to get back up and keep pressing onward, no matter the setbacks.”

* “Our core values—mission, curiosity, flexibility, and vigor—shape every aspect of how we work and grow.”

* “True growth happens outside your comfort zone, not by doing only what you already know.”

* “Even as a fully remote company, we’ve built strong collaboration and alignment as we scale toward $40 million Series B.”

* “Slow is smooth, smooth is fast—thoughtfully moving forward achieves more than rushing through tasks.”

Takeaways

* Leading with core values such as mission, curiosity, flexibility, and vigor helps build a strong company culture and fosters personal growth.

* It is possible for fully remote companies to thrive and stay aligned by using effective communication tools and organizing regular in-person team gatherings.

* Embracing change and pursuing opportunities outside your comfort zone can drive significant career and personal development.

* Persistence and adaptability are essential for overcoming challenges, especially in complex or rapidly changing industries.

* Having accountability partners and supportive relationships with colleagues and family makes it easier to navigate leadership challenges and achieve ongoing success.

Timeline

[0:00:00] Introduction

[0:01:37] Meet Chrissy

[0:03:02] Second Front Systems Overview

[0:04:57] Company History & Remote Culture

[0:07:49] Virtual Collaboration Mechanisms

[0:10:05] Core Values and Company Culture

[0:11:52] Aligning Personal and Company Values

[0:12:06] Deep Dive into Values

[0:20:37] Leadership Approach as COO

[0:22:25] Strengths and Growth Areas

[0:24:29] Accountability System

[0:26:24] Contact & Learn More

[0:28:16] Career Reflections and Advice

[0:30:34] Closing Remarks

Conclusion

Mitchell Levy and Chrissy McGarry delivered a powerful conversation on what it truly means to lead with authenticity, mission, and heart. Chrissy’s journey from the beverage industry to COO of a thriving defense tech company highlights the importance of embracing change, persistence, and building a values-driven culture—even in a fully remote world. Together, Mitchell and Chrissy offered actionable lessons and unforgettable insights that will empower leaders and professionals to pursue growth, foster connection, and confidently step outside their comfort zones.

If you like what you’re hearing and want to dive deeper into credibility, clarity, and how to show up as your best self, visit MitchellLevy.com. You can also book time directly on the calendar at https://mitchelllevy.com/contact-us to start your journey toward greater credibility today!

Links/Resources:

* Email Chrissy:: chrissy@secondfront.com

* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ckmcgarry/

* Instagram:

* Website:

https://sfstandard.com/

* Learn more about Mitchell Levy:

https://MitchellLevy.com

* Book time directly with Mitchell: https://mitchelllevy.com/contact-us

Credibility Nation:

* Website:

https://MitchellLevy.com