In the fast-moving world of startups, it’s easy to focus on ideas, growth, and the hustle- sometimes forgetting the people behind it all. At Founders500, we’re proud to be part of a community of creative founders who are not only building businesses but shaping a more inclusive and supportive startup ecosystem. Our Founder Spotlight is designed to go beyond the pitch decks and products, giving you a chance to get to know the humans behind the ventures- their journeys, challenges, and perspectives. By sharing these stories, we aim to strengthen connections, spark new ideas, and remind every founder in our community that they’re not building alone. Read the mini interview below!
A bit about Frédérique:
Frédérique has worked in the corporate world as a HR business partner for 16 years between France and the UK. She started an independent coaching practice in 2018 after realising the benefits and the importance of expanding one’s mindset and self-awareness to succeed. Frédérique has guided more than 1,500 leaders from start-ups to international organisations through her method, High-Vibe Leadership, creating lasting impact without burning out.
What do you do today- and what’s the story of how you got here?
I am a Leadership coach and after 16 years in corporate I decided to start my own business to support founders make a positive impact without burning out. Various life experiences put me on a spiritual path that drives my professional life.
What problem do you help solve, and why does it matter to you personally?
I support my clients to avoid burn out, find balance, stop feeling exhausted from wearing a mask, connecting to their true self. It matters so much to me because I don’t see what is the point of spending so much time and energy at work otherwise!
What was the moment you knew you had to build this (even before you knew how?)
2019 after losing my sister and spending most of my awake time in a toxic corporate environment, surrounded by very unhappy people.
What is the biggest lesson you learned in your first year of building?
Get support from a mentor or a coach to keep going and succeed.
What is a mistake you made that taught you something that you still use today?
Outsourcing communication, trusting the agency, even though my gut feeling was telling me that it was not right. Indeed the launch was an epic fail.
What is one decision or change that had the biggest impact on your growth?
Investing dozens of thousands of pounds in coaching.
What is something people think is the reason you succeeded, but the real reason is different?
People think that it’s because I come from a HR background so I know the right people. The real reason is that I am genuinely interested in others and my potential clients feel that.
When things get hard, what keeps you going?
Remembering that I am contributing to something bigger than myself.
What is one belief or mindset shift that made everything easier (or clearer)?
I can decide to be pessimistic or optimistic. Science has proven that optimistic people are far more successful. Simple as that.
Is there anything or anyone who has inspired you that has shaped your journey?
So many …. any life adventurer, people taking risks, seeing the beauty and preciousness of life. The 1st book was The monk who sold his Ferrari from Robin Sharma.
What did you enjoy the most about the Founders500 event?
The down to earth approach, the friendliness of everyone and the desire to build something new.
What advice would you give someone who is one chapter behind you?
Don’t stay alone, get support and surround yourself with people who have done it before you.
Thank you to all of our wonderful speakers for taking part in our Speaker Spotlight!
You can watch Frédérique’s session here.