This is the Leadership Journey series on the Choosing Leadership Podcast.

I believe we all have a lot to learn from each other's stories - of where we started, where we are now, and our successes and struggles on the way. With this series of interviews, my attempt is to give leaders an opportunity to share their stories and for all of us to learn from their generous sharing. If you know a leader whom you would like to see celebrated on the show, please send me a message on LinkedIn with their name.

In this episode, I sit down with Mark McDermott, Co-founder and CEO of ScreenCloud, to uncover the leadership insights behind his entrepreneurial success.

From balancing technical expertise with customer-centricity to evolving his vision in response to real-world challenges, Mark shares practical lessons for navigating growth and uncertainty.

We explore how to build a resilient mindset, develop strong leaders within your team, and create space for innovation even amidst chaos.

If you’ve ever struggled with adapting your leadership style as your business scales or questioned how to stay true to your vision while serving your customers, this conversation is packed with actionable wisdom.

Tune in for an inspiring and refreshingly honest take on leading with purpose and intention.

You can find Mark McDermott at the below links

https://www.linkedin.com/in/mhmcdermott/

In the interview, Mark shares

• "Choosing leadership is about stepping into the unknown with courage and commitment—even when uncertainty looms."
• "Your founding vision is the anchor of your entrepreneurial journey, but evolving that vision to meet customer needs is what creates true impact."
• "Mark McDermott reminds us that delivering meaningful solutions isn’t about over-engineering; it’s about listening to and understanding your customers."
• "Leadership grows alongside your business. Each new phase demands you to adapt and recommit to your vision."
• "As leaders, we must ask ourselves: Who are we truly building this product for? Balancing technical expertise with customer focus is a superpower."
• "Structured days for deep work and strategic thinking allow leaders to create space for reflection and innovation."
• "Building a resilient mindset is key—be kind to yourself and lean on a support network during turbulent times."
• "Leadership isn’t about doing it all yourself. Building a strong second level of leaders ensures your vision is upheld and executed."
• "Side projects can be more than hobbies—they provide creative breathing room and keep the passion alive."
• "Mark’s entrepreneurial journey is a masterclass in balancing technical vision, customer commitment, and leadership growth through all stages of scaling a business."