S2 E6: Why First Time Founders Need to Build with Equity, with Desiree Morton

Startup founders aren’t always building their companies with equity in mind…
On this week’s pod, Hebba sits down with Desiree Morton, a DEI practitioner and tech founder, to discuss the importance of building companies with equity in mind from the beginning. From managing expectations to prioritizing equity initiatives, Desiree shares valuable insights and advice for creating a more inclusive and equitable workplace. 
Bonus: Hebba and Desiree chat about why manipulation isn’t always a bad thing when it comes to equity, why it’s okay to admit your baby’s ugly (because, let’s face it, not everyone thinks it’s cute), and how “He’s Just Not That Into You” is applicable to just about everything.
Plus, everyone’s got baggage—so how can we approach difficult situations (and er… people) using a more empathetic framework? 
 
00:01:24 - The Influence of DEI in Operations
00:03:30 - Building a Company with Equity
00:14:19 - Addressing Equity Problems in HR
00:15:59 - Building Strong Employee Resource Groups
00:18:22 - Challenges of Building with Equity
00:24:47 - Prioritizing Equity Initiatives in Business
00:29:36 - How to Juggle Business and HR Priorities
00:36:09 - Creating an Equitable Environment for Employees
00:39:41 - Equity Issues: Advice for First-Time Founders
00:44:49 - Innovate, Not Rely on Tech for HR Equity
00:50:15 - Building Equity and Exit Strategies
 
For even more exclusive insider content, don’t forget to check out my YouTube page. 
 
Follow Desiree:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/desireekmorton/
Website: https://www.aginci.com/
 
Follow Hebba: 
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef
Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef

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