Founders on Fire with Emily Hodges & Haydn Brooks, Risk Ledger Founders on Fire Podcasts Posted by Rose Ross | 29/07/2025 In this episode of Founders on Fire, host Rose Ross sits down with Emily Hodges, CEO, and Haydn Brooks, Co-founder and CEO of Risk Ledger—winners of the Security Trailblazers Award. Risk Ledger is redefining supply chain cybersecurity, shifting the focus from traditional third-party risk management to collaborative, real-time risk reduction across entire supply networks. Haydn shares the story of Risk Ledger’s early days, which started with two desks in a bedroom and a vision to empower companies against supply chain threats. Emily explains why the mission resonated so deeply—transforming her view of third-party risk from “boring” to essential, especially in an environment where attackers exploit supplier vulnerabilities. The conversation delves into startup challenges, from co-founder matchmaking and early funding to hiring a high-impact team and landing clients—even before the product was built. Emily highlights the importance of incentive alignment in security: helping suppliers grow their business while enhancing their security posture benefits everyone involved. Looking ahead, Risk Ledger is embracing AI to streamline risk reviews, support context-rich decision-making, and reduce manual overhead. The company is also expanding internationally, with a focus on Northern Europe and the U.S., and exploring new product capabilities for detection and response across supply chains. Tune in now to hear how Risk Ledger is building the future of collaborative cybersecurity! Standout Quotes from Haydn Brooks “No matter how much resource or time companies spend securing themselves, they’re getting hit through their suppliers.” “The biggest challenge isn’t what to do—it’s what not to do. Every opportunity hascosts, and choosing the right path is critical.” “We’re not just solving today’s third-party risk—we’re laying the foundation fordetection and response in tomorrow’s supply chain attacks.” “Motivation comes and goes. What matters is the discipline behind showing up andstaying true to the mission.” Standout Quotes from Emily Hodges “No matter how much resource or time companies spend securing themselves, they’re getting hit through their suppliers.” “The biggest challenge isn’t what to do—it’s what not to do. Every opportunity hascosts, and choosing the right path is critical.” “We’re not just solving today’s third-party risk—we’re laying the foundation fordetection and response in tomorrow’s supply chain attacks.” “Motivation comes and goes. What matters is the discipline behind showing up andstaying true to the mission.”