On My Radar: Daniel McCarthy
Daniel McCarthy, CEO of Filmsupply and Musicbed, on his automotive addiction, the toxicity of social media, and why if you don't cry watching Father of the Bride, you don't have a soul.
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What the most creative advertising idea you’ve seen recently?
The first thing that came to mind was a not-so-recent KFC ad that went live in the UK when they ran out of chicken. Unbelievably creative answer to a rough situation.
What website(s) do you use most regularly?
LinkedIn.com for recruiting. Bringatrailer.com, because I have an addiction.
What’s the most recent piece of tech that you’ve bought?
The most recent? Gosh, one of those awful Bluetooth car cigarette adapters, because my addiction that I previously mentioned led me to buying a car that doesn’t have Bluetooth, which is an even bigger problem for a guy who owns a music company.
What product could you not live without?
It's cliche, but my iPhone. If we drill down a bit, my OCD relies heavily on HomeKit. It automates my life.
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What’s the best film you’ve seen over the last year?
Well, this is embarrassing. I think the only movie I have seen this year was Tom & Jerry, with my three daughters. It was mediocre at best, but I grew up watching the magnificent duo, so it was reasonably nostalgic. No, that’s a lie. I also watched Father of the Bride. If you are a dad of daughters and you don’t cry watching that movie, you don’t have a soul. He also drives an Austin Healey 3000, which is wonderful.
What film do you think everyone should have seen?
This is a trap. You want me to go funny? Socially relevant? Creatively profound? I’ll stick to the car theme and just say that if you haven’t paid your respects to Paul Walker recently, then maybe you need to put Fast & Furious in the queue. Because #toyotasupra.
What’s your preferred social media platform?
I actually don’t use social media. This is a bigger conversation, for another article, but I just believe it is toxic. I spent a lot of time on social media when I was building a creative agency and then used it quite a bit during the inception of Musicbed and Filmsupply. I found myself falling into the trap of comparison and allowing it to suck the life out of me. I live a slightly disconnected life now, but I like it over here.
What’s your favourite TV show?
Drive to Survive, on Netflix. If you can convince my wife to get into F1 racing, then you have really made something special. There is something truly remarkable about F1. These guys are at the top of their game and literally risk their lives every time they get into the car. As a huge sports fan in general, I love reading and watching anything about people operating at the highest level in their crafts.
What’s your favourite podcast?
The one I probably frequent the most is Masters of Scale, with Reid Hoffman. It covers business and growth. Plus, each episode packs in a ton of insights. I love hearing the stories behind other companies.
What show/exhibition has most inspired you recently?
I haven’t been to anything since Covid hit, but this is a great reminder for me to renew our museum membership!
What’s the most significant change you’ve witnessed in the industry since you started working in it?
Meaningful content. I feel like brands have really picked up the torch on creating meaningful, authentic content that reaches beyond just their product offerings. Brands have realised the massive influence they have, tapping into it to say meaningful things and create change. A great example of this is what Square is doing with its For Every Dreamseries. They’re showcasing incredible people with perspective-changing stories. It’s not just a product showcase.
If there was one thing you could change about the advertising industry, what would it be?
The first thing that comes to my mind is the culture. It’s known for being cut-throat, fake, sexist, you know… Mad Men vibes. However, I do feel like there is hope. We have so many clients and friends creating phenomenal work and doing it with a healthy culture. As with everything else going through a transformation right now, I believe the best days are ahead of us!
Who or what has most influenced your career?
Faith. I answered this question five other ways before I answered it truthfully. If I didn’t have it, and if I didn’t have an amazing group of friends, family, and mentors, I’d be off the reservation.
Tell us one thing about yourself that most people won’t know.
I’m allergic to beer, which is a real party problem. Actually, I’m allergic to alcohol, so I’m the designated driver on our Napa trips.
