Creating a Vision with Micheal Blakley, Co-Founder of Equitas | The Progression Puzzle Series 1, Episode 4

On our latest episode of The Progression Puzzle, we welcome guest Michael Blakley, Co-Founder of Equitas. 

Michael joined us to talk about the highs and lows of being a founder. Entrepreneurial by nature, Michael founded a successful recruitment agency attracting industry giants from ALDI to BSkyB.

It was this experience that propelled him to co-found Equitas to help companies reduce bias in their interview processes to make better, fairer hiring decisions. 

Throughout the podcast, Michael showcases his positive attitude when discussing the challenges of running a start-up with a small team and pitching for investment. This has created a resilient nature that shines throughout the whole conversation. 

This podcast provides insightful takeaways for anyone on their own entrepreneurial path: from the best way to pitch for funding to how to build a team and finally why patience is a key. There is advice within the conversation that will resonate at whatever stage of the entrepreneurial journey you are at. 

Hosted by Michael Barrington-Hibbert, the pair discuss their passion for increasing diversity across industries and why this is so important. This podcast includes all the advice you need to navigate challenges that arise as you create a vision for the organisation and future you want to see.

 

Timestamped Guide: 

00:04 - Introduction to The Progression Puzzle 

00:59 - Introduction to Michael 

02:26 - Introduction to Equitas

03:52 - Where the idea for Equitas came from

06:39 - How does the Equitas platform help different companies within different industries

09:19 - Which sectors have Equitas seen the most success in 

11:58 - Where did Michael's passion for inclusivity come from 

15:14 - Michael's role models growing up

17:33 - Michael's top tip for aspiring entrepreneurs

19:29 - What was Michael's pivotal moment that led him to co-found Equitas?

21:46 - The harsh realities of co-founding a company

23:55 - Michael's first pitch to try to receive funding for Equitas

25:31 - What does resilience mean to Michael?

27:30 - The highs and lows during Equitas journey 

30:28 - The future of Equitas 

33:47 - What advice would you give to your younger self to be able to chase your dreams and ambitions 

36:05 - Summary of the podcast 

 

Connect with your host, Michael Barrington-Hibbert, on LinkedIn

Find your guest, Michael Blakley, on LinkedIn

Thanks for listening to our conversations on The Progression Puzzle, brought to you by Barrington Hibbert Associates

This podcast is a Loaded Hype production