From Startup to Exit: Brian McNally's Journey to Freedom
The Road to Entrepreneurship
Brian McNally’s story is one of strategic planning, relentless focus on profitability, and a deep desire for freedom. Growing up in a working-class family, he was surrounded by a scarcity mindset when it came to money. However, from a young age, Brian knew he wanted more—financial success and control over his own time.
His early career in staffing and recruiting provided him with valuable business fundamentals. But it was seeing firsthand how a company could be grown and sold that solidified his ultimate goal: build a business, scale it effectively, and exit on his terms.
Building and Exiting Melio
In 2015, Brian co-founded Melio with a clear vision and an intentional exit strategy. Unlike many entrepreneurs who focus solely on growth, he prioritized profitability from the start. Investing early in financial systems and processes ensured that the company’s books remained clean—a critical factor in achieving a successful exit.
Over seven years, Brian and his team grew Melio to an impressive $50 million in revenue, far surpassing their initial goal of $20 million. Despite external pressure to continue scaling, Brian stuck to his original exit plan and successfully sold the company in 2022. His motivation was clear: he valued freedom and family time more than simply maximizing the sale price.
Life After the Exit
Many entrepreneurs struggle with purpose after exiting their businesses, and Brian was no exception. He initially felt directionless, but soon channeled his energy into new pursuits that aligned with his values and passions:
MMA Training – Seeking a new challenge, Brian took up MMA with the ambitious goal of competing in an amateur fight.
Philanthropy – He founded the Beru Fund, focusing on inspiring and supporting youth.
Coaching and Mentorship – Brian now helps other entrepreneurs achieve holistic success, emphasizing both business acumen and life balance.
Writing a Book – His upcoming book, Dream Design Do, will share insights on setting and achieving ambitious goals.
Men’s Group Leadership – Understanding the importance of community and support, Brian started a group dedicated to helping fathers and husbands navigate life’s challenges.
Financial Philosophy: Freedom Over Possessions
Brian’s approach to money is refreshingly different from the stereotypical entrepreneur chasing ever-higher financial milestones. His philosophy is rooted in prioritizing experiences and personal growth over material wealth. He believes in continuous learning, taking on new challenges, and maintaining financial independence through smart investments.
He also emphasizes the importance of:
Maintaining clean financials to ensure a smooth exit strategy
Investing early and consistently
Designing a business that supports life goals rather than consuming them
What’s Next for Brian McNally?
Brian’s entrepreneurial spirit hasn’t faded—he’s simply applying it to new ventures. His next steps include:
Continuing his MMA training and eventually stepping into the ring for his first amateur fight
Completing and publishing Dream Design Do
Expanding his coaching practice to help more entrepreneurs achieve balance and success
Growing his philanthropic initiatives through the Beru Fund
Scaling his men’s group to reach more fathers and husbands seeking personal growth
Final Thoughts
Brian McNally’s journey is a testament to the power of having a clear vision, prioritizing profitability, and staying disciplined in executing an exit strategy. His story serves as inspiration for entrepreneurs who want not only financial success but also the freedom to design a life they truly love. Whether through business, philanthropy, or personal challenges, Brian continues to prove that success isn’t just about making money—it’s about making an impact.
Want more of Brian? Check him out here: https://www.instagram.com/thebrianmcnally/, https://brianmcnally.com/