Chloë Downes: On Leaving her 6-figure business to re-discover who she is

Chloë is best known for her leadership in the creator economy as the founder and CEO of SHFT, a talent agency she grew into a multi-award-winning, 6-figure business while advocating for fairness, inclusivity, and integrity across the industry. In 2024 she was recognised on the Forbes 30 Under 30 list for her impact in influencer marketing and entrepreneurship. Last year, Chloë chose to exit her company, take a break and channel her expertise into coaching. She now works as a Mindset and Business Coach, supporting entrepreneurs, leaders, and creatives to build clarity, confidence, and sustainable success.I don’t think we hear enough empowering stories of successful founders stepping away from their businesses. The narrative seems to simply be that we should build and gain recognition and money - but what happens next? What happens when you outgrow that idea you had in your early 20s, or when you don’t feel challenged or fulfilled anymore? Leaving a successful business means going against the grain of our culture  in so many ways - and then what do you do with that newfound space? In this episode we cover: Growing up in Peckham & young entrepreneurship Dance & the creative importance of hobbies Carving a path in influencer agencies Black Lives Matter: her turning point Creating SHIFT , success stories & Forbes 30u30Waking up unhappy at 30 Autism & ADHD diagnosis Why and how she left her business What she did while off social media Why coaching is her next move Mentions: Laban Dance School - https://www.trinitylaban.ac.uk/Spirited Away, Studio Ghibli (2001) Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chloedownes/