Bryan Scott McMillan’s life reads like a series of quiet turns rather than loud pivots. Born in Las Vegas and raised in North Las Vegas, he grew up in a working-class home where responsibility showed up early. As the oldest sibling, he learned to lead long before he ever held a formal title. His parents’ conversion to the Mormon faith added structure and routine to daily life, shaping a deep respect for discipline, accountability, and community.
School became his path forward. Bryan focused hard on academics and wrestling, starting the sport at age five and continuing through high school and college. Wrestling taught him how to endure discomfort, stay focused, and recover quickly after setbacks. Those lessons followed him into his professional life. He earned a degree in Political Science and Business from Arizona State University, later completing executive leadership and strategic marketing programmes at Harvard University and the University of Texas at Austin.
His career unfolded over more than 30 years in the medical device industry. Bryan rose into senior executive leadership roles, where he became known for steady decision-making, rebuilding struggling teams, and guiding organisations through change. He worked across operations, sales, marketing, regulatory strategy, and global partnerships, often stepping into situations that required patience rather than flash.
Life shifted after the loss of his wife to cancer. Supporting his children through grief led him to volunteer with The WARM Place and Camp Sanguinity. That experience changed how he defined success. In 2018, he founded Families with Holes, focused on helping families navigate loss with compassion and practical support. Now an early retiree, Bryan lives a quieter rhythm shaped by faith, health, service, and long walks without headphones.
Can you tell us a bit about yourself and what you do?
I’m an early retiree after spending over three decades as a senior executive in the medical device industry. These days, my work looks very different. I volunteer, mentor, and support families dealing with grief through my foundation, Families with Holes. I also spend a lot of time focused on faith, health, and staying present in everyday life.
How would you describe your personal or professional vibe in 3 words?
Steady, grounded, intentional. I’ve never been someone who chases noise or urgency. Even in high-pressure roles, I preferred calm rooms and clear thinking. Those three words guide how I live now as well.
What’s one fun fact about you most people don’t know?
I wrestled competitively for most of my life, starting at age five. That sport shaped how I handle stress more than any business training ever did. I still think like a wrestler when things get tough: breathe, stay balanced, don’t panic.
What’s your favorite TV show right now?
I really enjoy The Repair Shop. Watching people restore broken objects feels meaningful to me. There’s something calming about patience, craftsmanship, and care. It mirrors how I try to approach people and problems.
What’s your most-used social media app these days?
X is the one I check most often. I use it more for reading than posting. I like following thoughtful voices rather than trends.
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What was the first social media app you ever joined?
Facebook was my first. It was back when it felt like a genuine way to stay connected with people you knew. I still value that original idea, even though the platforms have changed a lot.
Are there any influencers or creators you never miss content from?
I consistently follow people who talk honestly about grief, leadership, and faith. Jerry Sittser is someone whose writing I return to often. I also pay attention to creators who focus on emotional health without oversimplifying it.
Are there any must-follow accounts or pages for people in your industry?
For leadership and business, I still like following Harvard Business Review accounts. I also keep an eye on voices that talk about organisational culture and long-term thinking rather than quick wins.
Do you listen to any podcasts related to your field or niche?
I listen to a mix. On Being with Krista Tippett has been meaningful for me. It explores faith, humanity, and purpose in a thoughtful way. I also enjoy leadership podcasts that focus on real stories instead of hype.
What’s the best advice you’ve heard from a podcast or interview?
One line that stuck with me was about listening longer than feels comfortable. That advice changed how I led teams and how I support people in grief. Silence often tells you more than words.
If you could collab with any influencer or celeb, who would it be?
I’d choose someone like Mike Rowe. I respect how he values work ethic, humility, and practical wisdom. Those themes resonate with how I try to live.
What’s a habit, hack, or tool you swear by for staying informed or inspired?
Walking without headphones. It sounds simple, but it’s powerful. Some of my clearest thinking happens when I’m moving without noise in my ears.
Follow Bryan Scott McMillan on X
