S1 E7: The PhD Dropout

In Episode 7 of "Success Unscripted," Sara Roberts speaks with Patrick Wendell, Co-founder and VP of Technology at Databricks, in a conversation that reveals the trials and triumphs of early startups and provides tips on how to preserve company culture amid rapid expansion.

Patrick delves into the evolution of Customer Success at Databricks, spotlighting the strategic decision to prioritize CS with the early appointment of Hatim Shafique as Chief Customer Officer in 2017. Under his leadership, the CS team set a top-level goal of increasing product usage, an uncommon approach that ensured all teams worked towards a common goal with a direct link to ROI.

As he spearheads Databricks' AI endeavors, Patrick shares insightful perspectives on AI's evolving role in CS and support and its potential impact on the job market. The conversation also ventures into personal reflections, with Patrick pondering his own future and legacy in the wake of considerable achievements.