Leading with purpose: CEO Anne Gretland on Equal Inspired Podcast

Anne and Ellie also explore how inclusion fuels innovation. When people are encouraged to ask questions and challenge routines, creativity flows. Sometimes that means changing how meetings are run, trying new ways of working, or simply listening longer before deciding. 

- “I wish people would ask me more often, ‘Should we just go to Paris?’ This is a metaphor and is all about  breaking patterns and trying new things. It’s when we think outside the “normal”  that the real  magic happens.”, Anne explains.

Anne leads by example, showing the openness and inclusiveness she expects from others. She encourages leaders to admit when they don’t have all the answers, to listen carefully, and to stay human. When people feel they belong, trust grows, and when leaders create space for everyone to thrive, innovation takes care of itself. 

A message that resonates beyond tech  

Anne’s story is a reminder that leadership is about purpose and courage. On the podcast, she speaks candidly about moments of self-doubt early in her career and how stepping into discomfort became her greatest teacher. Keeping in the back of her mind the famous song by Aaliyah …”if at first you don't succeed, then dust yourself off and try again”. The worst that can happen if you fail, is that you know you tried and you dared to try. That should make you proud and strong.   

That message aligns perfectly with Equal IT’s mission: to challenge barriers, empower underrepresented talent, and show that the tech industry thrives when diverse perspectives are appreciated and considered.  

Both Anne and Equal IT share a vision of a future where leadership and inclusion are inseparable, where technology not only drives progress but reflects the diversity of the people it serves. Inclusion isn’t a strategy, it’s the heartbeat of leadership. When leaders make space for every voice, truly listen, and act with purpose, innovation follows naturally. People and purpose together spark innovation, build stronger teams, and shape a future where everyone can succeed. 

About the Equal Inspired Podcast  

The Equal Inspired podcast exists to make the voices of marginalized groups doing incredible work in tech heard, creating relatable role models and educating on the importance of inclusive environments where belonging is at the forefront.  

Behind it is Equal IT, a mission-driven recruitment company built to create fair, outcome-based hiring processes. Their approach ensures that all candidates feel valued and respected, showing that inclusion and performance go hand in hand.