By: Joshua Finley
Cybersecurity is critical for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) in today’s digital landscape. With over 30 years of experience, Clark Sandlin, CEO & Founder of Zyrka, has been at the forefront of helping SMBs defend against evolving cyber threats. Recently, Clark shared his expertise on cybersecurity, entrepreneurship, and leadership, offering invaluable insights for businesses navigating these challenges.
Fostering a Lifelong Passion for Technology
Clark’s passion for technology was sparked at an early age, fueled by the influence of his parents. “My dad was a programmer at NASA, and my mom gifted me a Commodore 64,” he recalls. From that moment, Clark dove headfirst into the world of computers, igniting a curiosity that would shape his future in tech. But Clark’s path to success wasn’t without its challenges. Despite his early love for tech, his academic journey was far from smooth.
In high school, Clark openly admits, “I was probably the worst student.” But everything changed when a history teacher handed him Ayn Rand’s Atlas Shrugged. Despite its daunting 1,500 pages, Clark devoured the novel, and it ignited something in him. “That book sparked a flame, and I’ve been an insatiable reader ever since”, he recalls. It was the moment that reshaped his intellectual journey.
Launching His IT Career
Clark’s IT journey spans 33 years, beginning in the computer labs at the University of Memphis. Fresh out of college, he quickly transitioned into working with portfolio companies of Private Equity firms, laying the foundation for his future career in tech. As Clark’s career progressed, he soon found himself facing high-stakes challenges in the world of cybersecurity, where the risks were as big as the rewards.
One of Clark’s early cybersecurity challenges came while working for Hicks, Muse, Tate & Furst, the firm owned by Tom Hicks- who also owned the Dallas Stars, Texas Rangers, and Liverpool Football Club. “That brought a unique set of challenges,” Clark recalls. “Hackers and even rabid fans were constantly trying to breach the office, both physically and electronically.” This high-stakes environment pushed Clark to develop robust cybersecurity solutions, which later became the foundation of his tailored security strategies for Private Equity firms and Family Offices.
Starting His Own IT Company
In 2004, Clark was approached by Hicks, Muse, Tate & Furst with a unique opportunity- to create his own company to support their partners during a major organizational split. “It was a turning point.” Clark recalls, describing the opportunity as “invaluable”. What began as a solution to a specific challenge evolved into the foundation for his thriving business. Over the past 20 years, Clark’s company, Zyrka, has grown organically, driven by a reputation for excellence and sustained by word-of-mouth referrals from satisfied clients. This pivotal moment began a legacy built on trust, expertise, and results.
Although Clark didn’t have entrepreneurial role models growing up, his journey was shaped by a combination of main characters from Atlas Shrugged and what he calls “a few good guardian angels”- peers and fellow entrepreneurs who offered him guidance along the way. But at the core of his success is an unshakeable drive. He reminded me, “It’s the relentless pursuit to keep going, never compromise, and make things happen.” More than anything, this unwavering passion is what built his company into what it is today, and it continues to fuel its growth.
Mastering Balance and Streamlining Success
Amid the demands of a long and intense career, how does Clark stay sharp? His answer is simple—balance is key.
Clark understands the dangers of overextending oneself, especially after decades in the field. He’s learned firsthand that maintaining balance is crucial to long-term success. “Spending 90% of your day buried in your business isn’t sustainable. It leads to burnout, blinds you to important details, and makes you hyper-focused on the wrong priorities,” Clark cautions.
To avoid these pitfalls, Clark carves out time for creative outlets like painting and reading books on diverse subjects, from classic literature and philosophy to art. He believes that shifting mental gears fuels creativity and brings fresh insights that can be applied to business. “Without balance,” Clark notes, “entrepreneurs risk losing their edge and becoming disengaged.”
Beyond maintaining balance, Clark emphasizes the critical role of organization and structured systems. He continues to rely on the classic Franklin Planner, a paper-based tool, to map out his goals—annually, monthly, weekly, and daily—ensuring every step is aligned with his broader vision. At the same time, he stresses the importance of remaining agile, knowing that the ability to adapt quickly to change is just as essential for long-term success.
Looking to the Future
Clark envisions significant growth for Zyrka over the next five years and strongly desires to empower the next generation of leaders. However, he adds with a smile, “Does any true entrepreneur ever really retire?”
For Clark, work is more than just a job; it’s a catalyst for his unquenchable thirst for knowledge and a way to make a meaningful impact. “Being a mentor and a guide is always in the cards,” he asserts, as he also looks forward to new adventures in travel. Most importantly, Clark’s motivation stems from a deep sense of gratitude for life itself. Each day, he awakens, ready to embrace challenges and cherishes the opportunity to grow and give back. Inspired by thriving, long-lived communities, he envisions a future where one can “continue to grow well into your old age and contribute.”
With a masterful blend of honesty, tenacity, organization, and passion, Clark has built a thriving IT company. His insights empower entrepreneurs to take charge of their cybersecurity, avoid burnout, and cultivate valuable connections. Clark exemplifies how resilience and ingenuity can enable entrepreneurs to reach new heights.
To learn more about Clark Sandlin and Zyrka, check out his LinkedIn profile here.
Published by: Annie P.
