The Engine - Founders Stories

Welcome to The Engine - Founders Stories Podcast. Host Donna Owen talks with Leroy Lawrence, the Founder of Pigee Inc, CEO of Quadron Capital Ltd, Angel Investor and Director at Lawrence Investment Holdings Ltd, and Chairman of Wellbeing of My Baby. Leroy shares how his travel struggles inspired Pigee, an AI-powered shipping tool that helps tourists and local shops send items home easily. He explains how he shifted from selling to travelers to working with global merchants, and how tech and data have guided the growth. Leroy also opens up about his journey, lessons from past businesses, and how he’s helping others succeed worldwide.

Leroy isn’t just a founder; he’s driven to fix real problems. His journey from frustrated shopper to building Pigee shows his mission to help local sellers and global buyers connect with ease. By using tech, AI, and smart sales methods, he’s turning shipping struggles into a simple, helpful solution.

Leroy spent years traveling and facing shipping problems before building Pigee to help others. His platform uses AI to make it easier for shoppers and shops to send goods worldwide. By focusing on real needs, Pigee helps local sellers grow, improves shipping, and creates new chances for people everywhere.

• Leroy’s path from traveler to founder of Pigee.
• How AI helps make global shipping easier.
• Why listening to feedback shaped the product.
• The role of data and automation in smart growth.
• Helping shops and sellers earn more with Pigee.

• How Pigee’s AI helps shops send items with ease.
• Lessons from Leroy’s journey through wins and losses.
• The value of testing, feedback, and real-world learning.
• How simple tools can solve big shipping problems.
• Building a global business that helps sellers grow.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “Start small, test it, then put it on steroids.” - Leroy
• “Quitting never crosses my mind, just pivot until it works.” - Leroy
• “I don’t need validation. The data tells me if I’m right.” - Leroy

Join Leroy as he shares how Pigee’s smart tech, global mindset, and hands-on approach are helping sellers ship easier, grow faster, and turn simple ideas into a big business.

Episode Highlights

[00;00] - Teaser

[01:16] - Introduction to Leroy Lawrence

[01:51] - The Problem Leroy Was Trying to Solve

[09:17] - How Pidgey Works

[12:14] - AI and Automation in Shipping

[15:56] - Leroy’s Early Entrepreneurial Journey

[24:18] - Leroy’s University Experience and Early Ventures

[27:44] - Career in Financial Markets

[34:41] - Dynamic Pricing, Obsession with Excel, and Balancing Work and Life

[43:47] - Building a Team and Company Culture

[46:00] - International Expansion & Social Impact

[54:24] - Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

[57:25] - Wrap-up and Closing Thoughts

FOLLOW THE GUEST & HIS COMPANY:

• Leroy Lawrence: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leroylawrence/ 
• Pigee Inc: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pigee-inc/ 
• Quadron Capital Ltd: https://www.linkedin.com/company/quadron-capital-ltd/ 
• Lawrence Investment Holdings Ltd: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lawrence-investment-holdings-ltd/ 
• Wellbeing of My Baby: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wellbeing-of-my-baby/ 

Websites:   

• Pigee Inc: https://www.pigeepost.com/ 
• Quadron Capital Ltd: https://www.quadroncapital.com/ 
• Lawrence Investment Holdings Ltd: https://www.li-holdings.co.uk/ 
• Wellbeing of My Baby: https://wellbeingofmybaby.co.uk/ 

FOLLOW THE HOST:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donnalowen/ 
• Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-engine-growth/ 
• Website: https://www.theengine.uk/ 
• Email: [email protected]

Welcome to The Engine - Founders Stories Podcast. Host Donna Owen is joined by Cameron Briggs, the CEO and Co-Founder, and Itamar Yeshua, the COO and Co-Founder of Vente AI. They share how their experience in recruitment led them to create Venti, an AI-driven platform designed to help recruiters find leads and connect with hiring managers quickly. Cameron talks about his passion for sales, while Itamar discusses how their teamwork and complementary skills have fueled the company’s success. Together, they explain the challenges, the role of AI in their product, and how they’re helping recruitment agencies boost their business development efforts.

Cameron and Itamar aren’t just founders; they’re passionate about helping recruiters thrive. Their journey from recruitment to Venti reflects their drive to improve business development for agencies. By sharing tools and insights from their own experiences, they show how AI and teamwork can transform recruitment challenges into real success.

Cameron and Itamar spent years in recruitment before creating Venti to help agencies succeed. Their platform uses AI to streamline lead generation and connect recruiters with hiring managers faster. With a focus on simplifying complex tasks, they help recruiters be more efficient, build stronger relationships, and grow their businesses.

• Cameron and Itamar’s journey from recruitment to founding Venti.
• How AI simplifies lead generation for recruiters.
• The power of teamwork in business growth.
• The importance of building confidence through tools and tech.
• Helping recruiters be more efficient and successful with Venti.

• How Venti’s AI helps recruiters find leads faster.
• Lessons from the founders’ experience in recruitment and tech.
• The importance of teamwork in driving business success.
• How Venti simplifies complex tasks for better efficiency.
• Building a business that empowers recruiters to succeed.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “Sales isn’t about scripts; it’s about building real connections.” - Cameron
• “AI doesn’t replace the human side, it just amplifies it.” - Itamar
• “Teamwork and clear roles can take a business from good to great.” - Cameron

Join Cameron and Itamar as they share how Venti’s AI, teamwork, and real-world experience are helping recruiters streamline their work, build confidence, and drive business growth.

Episode Highlights

[00:00] - Teaser

[01:41] - Introduction to Founder Stories

[02:21] - Early Experiences and Sales Approaches

[03:43] - Embracing Imperfections in Sales

[04:11] - What is Venti?

[05:42] - Roles at Venti and its Co-Founder Dynamic.

[08:17] - Venti’s Value Proposition, Customer Insights, and Product Development.

[10:56] - How Venti’s AI Works and Scaling Opportunities for Recruiters.

[13:04] - Niche Recruiting Focus and Early ROI Success.

[14:59] - The Journey from MVP to Scaling

[17:57] - Product Focus: Job Data and CRM Integration

[19:46] - Fundraising and Building a Strong Support Network.

[23:08] - Managing Friendships and Business Partnerships

[32:36] - The Role of Education and Risk

[33:34] - Entrepreneurial Mindset and Risk

[36:06] - Reflection on Life Choices and Delayed Gratification

[42:46] - The Founder’s Drive: Conviction and Delayed Gratification

[43:56] - Future Plans for Venti

[47:14] - Building a Lean Team

[56:04] - Predictions for the Tech and Recruitment Industry

[59:36] - Closing Thoughts: Knowing When to Kill an Idea

FOLLOW THE GUEST:

• Cameron Briggs: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briggscameron/ 
• Itamar Yeshua: https://www.linkedin.com/in/itamaryes/ 
• Vente AI: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vente-ai/ 

Websites:   

• Vente AI: https://www.vente.ai/ 

FOLLOW THE HOST:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donnalowen/ 
• Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-engine-growth/ 
• Website: https://www.theengine.uk/ 
• Email: [email protected]

Welcome to The Engine - Founders Stories Podcast. Host Donna Owen is joined by Marina Robertson, who is the Owner and Founder of BERKANO Consulting. Marina shares how her love for learning, her journey from Greece, and years in construction shaped her business. She talks about leadership, building confidence, and helping others grow with the right tools.

Marina isn’t just a founder; she’s focused on helping future leaders grow. Her journey from Greece to Group MD shaped her mission with Berkano. By sharing tools from real-world experience, she proves that learning, purpose, and courage can turn career changes into a powerful way to guide and support others.

She spent over 20 years in the built environment before starting Berkano to help leaders grow their impact. Her tools share real lessons on strategy, people, and change. With a passion for learning and purpose, she turns deep experience into clear support that helps others lead better, feel confident, and build strong careers.

• Marina’s journey from public sector leader to founder.
• Simple tools that help leaders make better decisions.
• How lifelong learning shaped her growth.
• Facing fears and building confidence in public speaking.
• Leading with purpose to help others grow.

• How Marina’s tools support leaders with real-world challenges.
• Lessons from shifting careers after decades in leadership.
• The role of strategy models like the Balanced Scorecard.
• Why structure and purpose matter in leadership.
• Embracing change to build something meaningful.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “Life is to be lived - and whatever that looks like for you.” - Marina Robertson
• “Everything you learn, unless you apply it, doesn’t become part of you.” - Marina Robertson
• “You create neural pathways by doing - not just by thinking.” - Marina Robertson

Join Marina Robertson as she shares how leadership tools, lifelong learning, and purpose-driven work are helping future leaders grow their impact, gain confidence, and lead with clarity.

Episode Highlights

[00:00] - Teaser

[02:01] - Intro & Guest Welcome

[02:50] - Why Marina Started Berkano

[07:02] - Her Passion for the Built Environment

[12:45] - Greek Roots and the Search for Freedom

[17:40] - Are Founders Wired Differently? Psychology and Risk

[21:21] - Tackling Tough Roles & Lifelong Studying

[25:44] - Lessons from the MBA & Balanced Scorecard

[35:28] - Overcoming Fear of Public Speaking

[41:10] - Future of Work, AI, and Purposeful Living

[49:38] - Building “Leadership Hardware” for Leaders

[53:48] - Reflections, Gratitude, and Staying Connected

FOLLOW THE GUEST:

• Marina Robertson: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marina-robertson-mba-mrics-fcmi-6b531312/ 
• Croydon Council: https://www.linkedin.com/company/croydon-council/ 
• BERKANO Consulting: https://www.linkedin.com/company/berkano-consulting/ 

Websites:   

• Croydon Council: http://www.croydon.gov.uk/ 
• BERKANO Consulting: https://berkanaconsultinggroup.com/ 

FOLLOW THE HOST:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donnalowen/ 
• Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-engine-growth/ 
• Website: https://www.theengine.uk/ 
• Email: [email protected]

Welcome to The Engine - Founders' Stories Podcast. Host Donna Owen is joined by David Clark is Founder of bobcheck, Managing Director of Cataphract, and Investor at Equitas. David shares how his years in recruitment, a lightbulb idea during lockdown, and his ADHD journey shaped his business. He discusses building a niche product, lessons on persistence, and turning challenges into strengths.

David isn’t just a founder; he enjoys creating tools that fix real problems. His path from years in recruitment to launching bobcheck shows how turning a common issue into a simple SaaS product can protect revenue and improve processes, while proving that focus and persistence can turn challenges into success.

David worked in recruitment for over a decade before creating bobcheck to help agencies spot missed fees. His SaaS tool runs in the background, giving recruiters clear data to protect revenue. Drawing on his industry knowledge and problem-solving skills, he builds simple, focused tech that makes processes smoother and businesses stronger.

• Solving Missed Fee Issues: David shares how bobcheck helps recruiters find lost revenue.
• Building a SaaS Business: Insights from turning a lockdown idea into a growing company.
• Niche Focus: Why staying in your lane leads to stronger results.
• ADHD and Entrepreneurship: How understanding his mind has boosted his success.
• Smarter Operations: Using tech to improve processes and client relationships.

• Using Tech for Revenue Protection: David explains how bobcheck helps agencies spot and recover missed fees.
• Starting from an Idea: The steps and effort it took to grow a lockdown concept into a SaaS business.
• Learning from Recruitment: How years in the industry shaped his product design.
• Making Work Easier: How automation saves time and improves accuracy.
• Adapting to Succeed: Why staying focused and open to change drives growth.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “Even one missed fee found can pay for the whole system.” - David Clark
• “Staying in your lane helps you grow stronger.” - David Clark
• “Your brain works fine – it just works differently.” - David Clark

Join David Clark as he shares how niche tech, automation, and persistence are helping recruiters protect revenue, improve processes, and build stronger, more efficient businesses.

Episode Highlights

[00:00] - Teaser

[01:13] - Intro & Guest Welcome

[02:04] - What bobcheck Is & The Problem It Solves

[04:23] - Turning Missed Fees into Revenue Opportunities

[07:21] - SaaS Model & Pricing Approach

[09:32] - Staying Focused on the Niche

[14:59] - Origin Story of bobcheck

[16:21] - ADHD Journey & Career Impact

[29:45] - Parenting and Leadership with ADHD Insights

[42:34] - Maintaining Positivity & Managing Client Churn

[45:20] - Future Plans & New Features

[55:15] - Advice for Founders with ‘Different’ Thinking

FOLLOW THE GUEST:

LinkedIn Accounts: 

• David Clark: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidclarkbobcheck/ 
• bobcheck: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bobcheck/ 
• Cataphract: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cataphract/ 
• Equitas: https://www.linkedin.com/company/equitasapp/ 

Websites:   

• bobcheck: https://bobcheck.io/ 
• Cataphract: https://www.cataphract.co.uk/ 
• Equitas: https://equitas.ai/ 

FOLLOW THE HOST:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donnalowen/ 
• Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-engine-growth/ 
• Website: https://www.theengine.uk/ 
• Email: [email protected]

Welcome to The Engine - Founders' Stories Podcast. Host Donna Owen is joined by Thomas Vose, founder of HireAra, a startup that uses AI to help recruiters format CVs. From a student project to a big tech acquisition, Tom talks about how he turned a simple idea into a fast-growing business and shares lessons on risk, teamwork, and the future of AI.

Thomas isn’t just an entrepreneur; he loves finding smart solutions to problems. His journey from launching a startup to a major tech acquisition shows how spotting small pain points and using AI can change industries, especially in making processes faster and easier for businesses.

Thomas has a background in aerospace and engineering before starting his company to improve recruitment. At his company, HireAra, he uses AI to streamline CV formatting, making the process faster and easier. He focuses on smart tech and efficiency, applying his experience in engineering and problem-solving to help businesses grow.

• Solving Recruitment Problems: Tom explains how AI can make CV formatting easier.
• Building a Startup: Lessons learned from taking risks and following his vision.
• Innovative Thinking: Why using new tech can change traditional industries.
• Tech and Engineering: How Tom’s background in engineering shaped his business.
• Faster Processes: How AI speeds up work and makes things more efficient.

• Using AI for Efficiency: Tom shows how AI can improve recruitment processes.
• Building a Business: The challenges and rewards of starting from scratch.
• Learning from Experience: How Tom’s background in engineering helped him innovate.
• Simplifying Work: How AI makes tasks faster and more effective.
• Adapting and Growing: Why being open to new ideas helped Tom scale his company.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “Entrepreneurs are always looking for better ways to solve problems.” - Thomas Vose
• “A safety net lets you take risks without fearing failure.” - Thomas Vose
• “AI is changing industries, but human creativity makes it powerful.” - Thomas Vose

Join Thomas Vose as he shares how innovative thinking, AI, and entrepreneurship are transforming recruitment and paving the way for faster, smarter business growth.

Episode Highlights

[00:00] - Teaser

[01:04] - Guest Introduction: Thomas Vose

[03:08] - Early Entrepreneurial Journey and the Influence of Family

[05:30] - The Entrepreneurial Mindset: Drive, Curiosity, and Problem-Solving

[07:30] - From AI and Policy to Solving Recruitment Pain Points

[10:55] - The Future of AI: Speed, Revenue, and Corporate Adoption

[14:05] - The Journey from Startup to Acquisition and Rapid Growth

[16:50] - The Hidden Challenges of Acquisition and Key Lessons for Founders

[20:20] - Building a Team: Trust, Relentless Drive, and Friendship

[22:45] - The Power of Teamwork and Stress During Rapid Growth

[26:01] - The Impact of AI on Critical Thinking and Human Intelligence

[27:49] - Founder Mindset, Risk, and the Power of Perspective

[35:35] - Building a Sales Team with the Right People and Process

[41:50] - Final Thoughts: Embracing Risk and Starting a Business

FOLLOW THE GUEST:

LinkedIn Accounts: 

• Thomas Vose: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-vose-149788108 
• HireAra: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hireara/ 

Websites:   

• HireAra: https://www.hireara.ai/ 

FOLLOW THE HOST:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donnalowen/ 
• Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-engine-growth/ 
• Website: https://www.theengine.uk/ 
• Email: [email protected]

Welcome to The Engine - Founders' Stories Podcast. Host Donna Owen chats with Luke P. (Luke Pilfold Thomas). He is an investor and board advisor at ProDataStack, an investor and NED at Dote and Talentloop, as well as the investor and co-founder of Aitemology. Additionally, he serves as the investor and chief strategy officer at Finity and a behind-the-scenes entrepreneur who's helped build 15+ companies. Luke talks about growing up introverted, learning by doing, and why he avoids the spotlight. He shares thoughts on education, parenting, and the future of work. With honesty and care, Luke reveals what really drives him and how he finds meaning in helping others succeed.

Luke isn’t just a founder; he’s the quiet force behind many growing companies. His journey from school tuck shop to serial investor shows how introverts can lead with impact. His focus on people, purpose, and doing things differently is shaping how early-stage businesses grow.

Luke started out running a school tuck shop and went on to work at places like BlackBerry and big retailers. Now, he backs early-stage startups with funding and advice. He uses lessons from his own journey to help founders build strong teams and smart systems from day one.

• Behind the Scenes: Luke shares why he avoids the spotlight and helps others shine.
• From Tuck Shop to Boardroom: His journey from selling sweets to backing startups.
• Education Gaps: Why schools need to teach real-life skills like money and tech.
• Building Right: Tips for structuring teams and systems that can scale.
• Parenthood Shift: How becoming a dad changed his work-life balance.

• Helping Founders: Luke backs people, not just ideas, with time and advice.
• Hard Truths: Talks openly about stress, lost friends, and missed holidays.
• System First: Why building good systems matters more than quick hires.
• Big Picture: Shares views on AI, education gaps, and future risks.
• Doing What Matters: Choose work that brings joy, not just money.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “I'm not made for the spotlight, I’d rather help others shine.” - Luke
• “Being smart isn’t the same as being academic.” - Luke
• “Build systems first, then hire people to run them.” - Luke

Join Luke as he shares how quiet drive, clear systems, and honest lessons are helping early-stage founders grow strong teams and smart businesses.

Episode Highlights

[00:00] - Teaser

[01:42] - Intro to Luke Pelfold Thomas: Quiet Builder Behind 15+ Companies

[02:53] - Why He Stays Behind the Scenes, Not in the Spotlight

[04:31] - Childhood & School: Books Over Exams

[09:01] - Early Hustle: Tuck Shop and the First Business Steps

[11:18] - Career Start: BlackBerry and Big Retail Lessons

[14:05] - Going Solo: Leaving the 9-5 Life

[15:59] - MBA Reflections: Learning About Himself

[18:03] - Views on School: Broken System and Real Skills

[20:47] - Financial Literacy Gap: Kids and Money Awareness

[24:27] - From Student Hustler to Founder Life Realization

[27:17] - Founder Advice: Efficiency and System Over Staff

[31:01] - Modern Balance: Fatherhood and Work-Life Edges

[34:23] - Portfolio Approach: Choosing Projects that Spark Joy

[36:28] - Relationship Toll: Friendships and Family Struggles

[41:20] - Youngest of Three: How Family Dynamics Shape Drive

[44:13] - Tech vs. Humanity: AI and a Shifting Job Landscape

[46:15] - Timing Matters: Starting Up at Low-Obligation Phases

FOLLOW THE GUEST:

LinkedIn Accounts: 

• Luke Pilfold Thomas: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lukethomas017/ 
• ProDataStack: https://www.linkedin.com/company/prodatastack/
• Finity: https://www.linkedin.com/company/finity-hq/ 
• Talentloop: https://www.linkedin.com/company/talentloop-ltd/ 
• Dote: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dotebaby/ 
• Aitemology: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aitemology/ 

Websites:   

• ProDataStack: https://prodatastack.ai/ 
• Finity: https://www.finity.co.uk/ 
• Talentloop: https://talentloop.co.uk/ 
• Dote: https://dotebaby.co.uk/ 
• Aitemology: https://www.aitemology.com/ 

FOLLOW THE HOST:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donnalowen/ 
• Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-engine-growth/ 
• Website: https://www.theengine.uk/ 
• Email: [email protected]

FOLLOW THE PODCAST:

• Apple podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-engine-founders-stories/id1815726599
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4pl28fSOqvj2nOvWnDXvfn

Welcome to The Engine - Founders' Stories Podcast. Host Donna Owen chats with Holly Langley, founder of RE:STACK, a company helping recruiters get more from their tech. Holly shares how she went from nannying to leading a niche CRM consultancy. She talks about the power of saying no, building a strong team, and learning cash flow the hard way. With honesty and humor, Holly shares her journey, her lessons, and what it really takes to grow a business in a space few people understand.

Holly isn’t just a founder; she’s focused on making tech work better for recruiters. Her path from childcare to leading a CRM consultancy shows how passion and logic can build strong tools. Her belief in finding a niche and leading with purpose is helping change recruitment tech.

Holly worked in ops at a recruitment agency before starting RE:STACK, a firm that helps agencies use their tech better. At RE:STACK, she focuses on automation and smart tools to improve systems. She uses her real-world experience to solve common tech problems in recruitment.

• Starting RE:STACK: Holly shares why she built a tech-focused consultancy.
• Saying No Pays Off: How turning down work helped her grow faster.
• Cash Flow Lessons: Learning the hard way about managing money.
• Team Growth: Building a strong, fun team with clear roles.
• Content That Works: Why adding value helped grow her brand.

• Niche Tech Help: Holly explains how RE:STACK supports Bullhorn users.
• Startup Truths: The highs and lows of growing with little money.
• Learning Fast: Mistakes that taught her to lead and plan better.
• Leading with Heart: How her energy and belief shape her team.
• Big Goals Ahead: Why she’s thinking bigger for RE:STACK’s future.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “Find a niche, own that niche, and stick with it.” – Holly
• “Running a business is the best and hardest thing I’ve done.” – Holly
• “Add value first, even if they don’t need you yet.” – Holly

Join Holly as she shares how focus, fun, and smart systems are helping recruiters get more from their tech and grow stronger in their niche.

Episode Highlights

[00:00] - Teaser

[01:33] - Meet Holly Langley: Founder of RE:STACK and CRM Expert

[02:45] - What RE:STACK Does: Helping Bullhorn Users with Tech

[03:45] - Saying No to Stay Focused: Why It Pays Off

[04:50] - From Head of Ops to Automation Lover: The Bullhorn Story

[06:29] - School Days to Startup Drive: Holly’s Early Years

[09:33] - First Career as a Nanny: Building People Skills

[14:19] - From Nanny to Recruitment: The Office Leap

[18:48] - Leaving the Job: Starting RE:STACK with No Plan B

[22:13] - Startup Struggles: The Fish & Chips Cash Flow Story

[24:45] - Too Many Clients: Fixing Internal Systems and Planning

[26:41] - Leadership Style: Fun, Equality, and Team Building

[29:58] - Office Culture: Mice Phobia and Bridesmaid Dresses

[32:42] - Funny Moments: Glastonbury and Bullhorn Merch

[34:09] - Content Strategy: Why Giving Value Built the Brand

[39:39] - Looking Ahead: RE:STACK’s Team and Training Plans

[42:13] - Big Vision: Agency Acquisitions and System Success

[44:08] - Advice to Founders: Niche, Belief, and Cash Flow Planning

FOLLOW THE GUEST:

LinkedIn Accounts: 

• Holly Langley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/holly-langley/ 
• RE:STACK: https://www.linkedin.com/company/re-stack/

Websites:   

• RE:STACK: https://www.restack.uk/ 
• RE:STACK TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@holly.langley 
• RE:STACK YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@time.to.restack 

FOLLOW THE HOST:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donnalowen/ 
• Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-engine-growth/ 
• Website: https://www.theengine.uk/ 
• Email: [email protected]

FOLLOW THE PODCAST:

• Apple podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-engine-founders-stories/id1815726599
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4pl28fSOqvj2nOvWnDXvfn

Welcome to the Founder Stories Podcast. Host Donna Owen talks with Alexandra Chirica, founder of Recfindr, a new tech tool helping recruiters manage client deals better. From her early days in recruitment to starting a tech business, Alexandra shares her journey, why she pivoted her product, and how she raised funds as a solo founder. She opens up about the hard lessons, the power of believing in your “why,” and what it takes to launch a startup in a space that’s new and challenging.

Alexandra isn’t just a founder; she’s driven by a clear purpose to improve how recruitment agencies work with clients. Her journey from recruiter to tech builder shows how a strong belief in a mission can shape better tools. Her focus on learning and pivoting is helping reshape recruitment tech.

Alexandra ran a recruitment agency before starting Recfindr, a tech tool to help agencies manage deals better. At Recfindr, she uses smart tools to improve how agencies work with clients. She focuses on solving real problems and learning from users, using her past to build better ways to work in recruitment.

• Building Recfindr: Alexandra talks about starting a tech tool for recruiters.
• Why the Pivot: How changing her idea helped her stay true to her mission.
• Raising Funds: What she learned from pitching and getting investment.
• From Recruiter to Founder: How her past work shaped her product.
• Smart Recruitment Tools: Using tech to help agencies work better and faster.

• Tech for Recruiters: Alexandra shares how Recfindr helps agencies close deals.
• Starting from Scratch: The ups and downs of building a product alone.
• Learning by Doing: How Past Mistakes Helped Shape Smarter Ideas.
• Believing in the Why: Why purpose matters more than the product.
• Growth by Change: How being open to new paths helped Recfindr grow.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “Stick to your why, that’s what keeps you going.” - Alexandra
• “Raising money is hard, but belief in yourself is key.” - Alexandra
• “Tech can make recruitment smarter and simpler.” - Alexandra

Join Alexandra as she shares how purpose, learning, and smart tech are changing recruitment, helping agencies work better and connect more with their clients.

Episode Highlight

[00:00] - Teaser

[01:02] - Introducing Alexandra: From Recruitment to Recfindr

[01:28] - What Is Recfindr? Explaining a Digital Sales Room for Recruiters

[02:26] - Finding the Right Words: Messaging Recfindr to Recruiters

[04:07] - The Pivot Story: From Marketplace Idea to Deal Room Solution

[07:50] - Bootstrapping the Startup: Personal Investment and Hard Lessons

[08:20] - From Boutique Agency to Tech Builder: The Real Start of Recfindr

[11:39] - Raising Investment: From Angel Rejections to a VC Win

[14:58] - Post-Investment Shift: Rest, Reflection, and Real Product Discovery

[16:15] - Hiring and Product Discovery: Building a Strong Startup Team

[19:02] - The Early Years: Alexandra’s Journey from Law Aspirations to Recruitment

[22:54] - Creativity in Recruitment: How Alexandra Learned Her Niche

[24:17] - Getting Bored of Success: Why She Needed a New Challenge

[27:08] - Taking the Leap: How the Idea for Recfindr Took Shape

[28:32] - Darker Days: Stress, Fundraising Pressure, and Mental Strength

[32:25] - Looking Ahead: Scaling Recfindr and Embracing Growth

[35:26] - What’s Next: Investing, Innovation, and a Flexible Future

[39:27] - Final Advice: Underselling Yourself and Believing in the Why

FOLLOW THE GUEST:

LinkedIn Accounts: 

• Alexandra Chirica: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandrachirica/ 
• Recfindr: https://www.linkedin.com/company/recfindr/

Websites:   

• Recfindr: https://www.recfindr.co.uk/ 

FOLLOW THE HOST:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donnalowen/ 
• Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-engine-growth/ 
• Website: https://www.theengine.uk/ 
• Email: [email protected]

Welcome to the Founder Stories Podcast. Host Donna Owen is joined by Royden Greaves, founder of Jarvis, a fintech company that helps people understand and manage their pensions. From his early days growing up in Montserrat to leading a tech startup, Royden shares his journey, his passion for financial education, and how Jarvis is making pensions easier for everyone. He discusses his drive to help others, lessons from his career in finance, and the future of financial freedom.

Royden isn’t just a founder; he’s driven by helping others understand finances. His journey from growing up in Montserrat to creating Jarvis highlights how using simple tools and clear knowledge can change the way people manage their pensions. His passion for financial education is making a real difference.

Royden has a background in engineering and finance before founding Jarvis to help people with their pensions. At Jarvis, he uses tech to simplify financial planning and make understanding pensions easier. He focuses on education and smart solutions, using his experience to improve financial freedom for everyone.

• Making Pensions Simple: Royden shares how tech can simplify pension management.
• Building Jarvis: Lessons from starting a business and focusing on financial education.
• Empowering Others: Why teaching people about money can change lives.
• Background in Finance: How Royden’s experience in finance shaped his approach.
• Smart Solutions: How technology can make financial planning easier and more accessible.

• Tech for Financial Freedom: Royden explains how tech can simplify pensions.
• Starting Jarvis: The challenges and rewards of building a business from scratch.
• Learning from Failure: How Royden’s background in finance shaped his journey.
• Empowering People: How simple financial education can help individuals make better choices.
• Growth Through Innovation: Why embracing new ideas helped Royden scale Jarvis.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “Financial education can change lives.” - Royden Greaves
• “Failure is just part of the journey, keep learning.” - Royden Greaves
• “Tech can simplify complex problems for everyone.” - Royden Greaves

Join Royden Greaves as he shares how financial education, innovation, and tech are making pensions simpler and empowering people to take control of their financial future.

Episode Highlight

[00:00:00] - Teaser

[00:01:29] - Introducing Royden: From Financial Services to Founding Jarvis

[00:01:58] - Childhood & Drive: Creativity, Failure, and Restlessness

[00:05:19] - From Cardboard Wings to Corporate Desks: Journey into Financial Services

[00:10:16] - Ethics Over Profit: Royden's Real Reason for Founding Jarvis

[00:19:23] - The Birth of Jarvis: A Desk, A Thought, A Revolution

[00:25:03] - Why Pensions Are a Mess: Historical Context & Modern Ignorance

[00:32:06] - Unpacking the £36 Billion Problem: Lost Pots and Missed Opportunities

[00:38:14] - Building Jarvis: Vision, Lean Execution, and Empowering the Underserved

[00:45:55] - Pearls of Wisdom: How to Reclaim Time and Take Control of Your Financial Future

FOLLOW THE GUEST:

LinkedIn Accounts: 

• Royden Greaves: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roydengreaves/ 
• Jarvis: https://www.linkedin.com/company/jarvispensions/
• JHF Wealth: https://www.linkedin.com/company/jhfwealth/  

Websites:   

• Jarvis: https://www.getjarvis.app/ 
• JHF Wealth: https://www.jhfwealth.co.uk/ 

FOLLOW THE HOST:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donnalowen/ 
• Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-engine-growth/ 
• Website: https://www.theengine.uk/ 
• Email: [email protected]

Welcome to The Engine - Founders' Stories Podcast. Host Donna Owen is joined by Thomas Vose, founder of HireAra, a startup that uses AI to help recruiters format CVs. From a student project to a big tech acquisition, Tom talks about how he turned a simple idea into a fast-growing business and shares lessons on risk, teamwork, and the future of AI.

Thomas isn’t just an entrepreneur; he loves finding smart solutions to problems. His journey from launching a startup to a major tech acquisition shows how spotting small pain points and using AI can change industries, especially in making processes faster and easier for businesses.

Thomas has a background in aerospace and engineering before starting his company to improve recruitment. At his company, HireAra, he uses AI to streamline CV formatting, making the process faster and easier. He focuses on smart tech and efficiency, applying his experience in engineering and problem-solving to help businesses grow.

• Solving Recruitment Problems: Tom explains how AI can make CV formatting easier.
• Building a Startup: Lessons learned from taking risks and following his vision.
• Innovative Thinking: Why using new tech can change traditional industries.
• Tech and Engineering: How Tom’s background in engineering shaped his business.
• Faster Processes: How AI speeds up work and makes things more efficient.

• Using AI for Efficiency: Tom shows how AI can improve recruitment processes.
• Building a Business: The challenges and rewards of starting from scratch.
• Learning from Experience: How Tom’s background in engineering helped him innovate.
• Simplifying Work: How AI makes tasks faster and more effective.
• Adapting and Growing: Why being open to new ideas helped Tom scale his company.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “Entrepreneurs are always looking for better ways to solve problems.” - Thomas Vose
• “A safety net lets you take risks without fearing failure.” - Thomas Vose
• “AI is changing industries, but human creativity makes it powerful.” - Thomas Vose

Join Thomas Vose as he shares how innovative thinking, AI, and entrepreneurship are transforming recruitment and paving the way for faster, smarter business growth.

Episode Highlights

[00:00] - Teaser

[01:04] - Guest Introduction: Thomas Vose

[03:08] - Early Entrepreneurial Journey and the Influence of Family

[05:30] - The Entrepreneurial Mindset: Drive, Curiosity, and Problem-Solving

[07:30] - From AI and Policy to Solving Recruitment Pain Points

[10:55] - The Future of AI: Speed, Revenue, and Corporate Adoption

[14:05] - The Journey from Startup to Acquisition and Rapid Growth

[16:50] - The Hidden Challenges of Acquisition and Key Lessons for Founders

[20:20] - Building a Team: Trust, Relentless Drive, and Friendship

[22:45] - The Power of Teamwork and Stress During Rapid Growth

[26:01] - The Impact of AI on Critical Thinking and Human Intelligence

[27:49] - Founder Mindset, Risk, and the Power of Perspective

[35:35] - Building a Sales Team with the Right People and Process

[41:50] - Final Thoughts: Embracing Risk and Starting a Business

FOLLOW THE GUEST:

LinkedIn Accounts: 

• Thomas Vose: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-vose-149788108 
• HireAra: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hireara/ 

Websites:   

• HireAra: https://www.hireara.ai/ 

FOLLOW THE HOST:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donnalowen/ 
• Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-engine-growth/ 
• Website: https://www.theengine.uk/ 
• Email: [email protected]