Meet Rachael McCrary | Founder and CEO, Gather Labs

We had the good fortune of connecting with Rachael McCrary and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Rachael, can you tell us about a book that has had a meaningful impact on you?
The Hard Thing About Hard Things by Ben Horowitz

The book “The Hard Thing About Hard Things” is a favorite of mine because, unlike some business books that can be preachy, repetitive, or transactional, this book offers empathy and understanding for entrepreneurs going through ups and downs in very specific entrepreneurial scenarios. It helps readers feel seen, understood, and reassured that the challenges they face are normal.

One specific chapter addresses the “struggle,” which refers to the extreme highs and lows and dark times that entrepreneurs often experience. The author describes this as psychological torture, which entrepreneurs must endure in order to succeed. Entrepreneurs often face self-doubt, questioning their ability to lead their companies and make tough decisions. The book emphasizes that most people cannot handle the struggle and that only those who can push through will achieve success.

I want to share a personal story of sending a cold email to Ben Horowitz’s team, expressing gratitude for the book’s message of validation and encouragement. The response received was a reminder that, even in dark times, entrepreneurs can emerge on the other side and that failure is merely a step towards success.

As businesses grow, new challenges arise, and entrepreneurs must learn to ride the wave of struggle. The book encourages readers to push through difficulties, as the rewards will be worth it. According to the author, the only feeling comparable to the high of an entrepreneurial win is the feeling of being in love.

“The Hard Thing About Hard Things” also explores different stages of a company’s development, illustrating the importance of trusting one’s instincts. The author shares an anecdote about a significant hire that went against the advice of the board, which ultimately turned out to be a successful decision. This emphasizes the need for entrepreneurs to have a strong team of advisors while also trusting their gut instincts.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
How did you get to where you are today business-wise. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges?

One of my bosses, Dianne Casey, at a previous fashion company taught me the business side even though I was a Designer. She taught me EBITDA and how to run a P+L once on a long flight to China and it really stuck with me. Knowing your finances really sets a great foundation for your business in the beginning and optimize it later. I learned a little about a lot of things like finance, design, operations and marketing and knowing all aspects of a business and continuing that education is vital to success. I overcome challenges by starting with the desired outcome and then creating turtle steps to break it down one step at a time so it’s not overwhelming

What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way?
We get out of things what we put into them. The harder our challenge, the harder the barrier to entry for others so do whatever it takes to get past them.

What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?

Acquiescence to diagnostics often take a long time and require multiple steps, but they are incredibly valuable tools that provide powerful information about our bodies. Our goal is to make diagnostics fast, easy, and accessible for everyone, eliminating the need to visit a doctor or medical facility unless desired. We aim to show people how engaging and fascinating diagnostics can be.

Our primary focus is on the community, and we are constantly seeking their input on what they need and how we can enhance their wellness and healthcare experiences. By centering our efforts around community needs, we strive to deliver precisely what they require in a more accessible and enjoyable manner.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.

During a week-long trip with my best friend, we would start by checking into the Petit Ermitage hotel, an eccentric spot for entrepreneurs, where we could settle in and explore the unique amenities. The next day, we’d head to Central LA to Sapp Coffee Shop for lunch to enjoy authentic, affordable, and family-owned Thai food before spending the afternoon exploring local shops and attractions. On our third day, we’d rejuvenate ourselves with a visit to the Olympic Korean Spa, a perfect spot for relaxation because every entrepreneur needs a spa day once in a while!

Over the following days, we’d continue to discover the area’s top attractions, parks, and museums, mixing in some shopping, outdoor activities, and local events to ensure a diverse and memorable experience. We would also explore a variety of dining options, trying different cuisines and local specialties, while enjoying the nightlife by visiting popular bars, lounges, and attending live performances. Finally, on the last day, we’d share a farewell breakfast at the hotel before checking out of Petit Ermitage, ending our unforgettable adventure together.

In your view, what are some of the most fun, interesting, exciting people, places or things to check out?

In my view, some of the most fun, interesting, and exciting places to check out include the Getty Museum and Los Liones hike in the Pacific Palisades. The Getty Museum is a fantastic destination for art enthusiasts and anyone seeking inspiration, as it houses an extensive collection of super old and cool art that provides a unique perspective on history and culture. The museum’s stunning architecture and beautiful gardens further enhance the visitor experience, making it a must-visit destination.

On the other hand, the Los Liones hike in the Pacific Palisades offers a refreshing outdoor experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers. This scenic trail takes you through lush vegetation, eventually leading to a breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean. The hike is not only an excellent way to immerse yourself in nature, but it also provides an opportunity for exercise and reflection, allowing you to appreciate the beauty of the surrounding landscape. In summary, both the Getty Museum and the Los Liones hike are exceptional spots to visit, each offering their own unique and captivating experiences.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
So is there a person, group, organization, book, etc that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?

Fadi Bishara, Founder of the BlackBox Accelerator. Thank you for teaching us how to build a real sense of community and reminding us to always dig a little deeper.

Who else deserves a little credit and recognition in your story?

My grandmother, Dr Anne McCrary, a true scientist who leads with Grace. To Tom Marcus for teaching me how to build a board of directors properly. To Marjorie DeHey and Amy Chang, female investors who have believed in me at two companies I’ve founded who continue to illustrate how investors can truly add value and support to their portfolio founders.

Website: https://gatherlabs.com/ and https://rachaelmccrary.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gatherlabs/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gather-labs/ and Linkedin/Rachael McCrary: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachaelmccrary/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gatherlabs

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/gather-labs-beverly-hills

Image Credits
Charlie Chipman