Downshift is the first decelerator, designed to help professionals slow down, reflect, and realign with their deeper values and desires. Unlike accelerators that focus on rapid growth and scaling, decelerators emphasize introspection, self-discovery, and intentional living to foster personal and professional transformation. Slowing down doesn’t mean stopping indefinitely, giving up your ambition or losing out on opportunities. Downshift is designed to help you take a pause to gain clarity and realign your life.

Downshift is unique because it brings together high performers in transition, consciously opting to slow down instead of remaining in high gear. We provide a blend of in-person retreats, personalized coaching, educational content, group discussion, practical exercises, and community support. Our comprehensive approach, developed from coaching countless high performers in transition, years of study, and personal experience, specifically addresses the intricate challenges of navigating work-life transitions for individuals facing significant questions about their career, life, and selfhood.

The kick-off retreat will take place at the in the Hudson Valley. Our carefully selected location offers the ideal blend of comfort and serenity, setting the stage for our time together. The retreat is not just a getaway but a foundational step in our program —designed to establish our community container, introduce Downshift fundamentals, assist in setting intentions, and provide a space to release anything that needs to be let go. Attendees can look forward to nourishing meals made from fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and a carefully curated mix of group activities, personal reflection, meditation, and opportunities for solo connection with nature. All retreat expenses are included in the tuition, aside from transportation to the retreat location. We are eager to share this enriching experience with you.

Downshift primarily accommodates participants from North America and Europe based on programming times. However, we welcome participants from all over the world, provided they commit to full participation in the programming, including the in-person retreat. Virtual gatherings, workshops, and Q&A sessions are scheduled to maximize engagement, with specific timings provided for planning. These typically take place at 1pm EST.

Absolutely. While Downshift welcomes professionals from these fields, the program is beneficial for any high performer seeking meaningful change and alignment with their deeper values, regardless of their industry background.

The time commitment is 6 hours per week, though those who feel called may choose to engage more deeply with the practices, materials, and exercises. This is a highly involved program that requires full participation in all sessions, deep work between them, and active engagement with your cohort. Your commitment to fully immerse yourself in this experience is key to gaining the most from the journey.

The ideal Downshifter is someone ready to embrace change, with the ability to fully commit at least 6 hours a week to fully engage with our program. You are keen on self-exploration, willing to examine your behaviors, habits, and thought patterns, and open to integrating daily practices like journaling or meditation into your routine. A strong sense of community is important; we look for individuals eager to both contribute to and learn from our supportive group environment. Additionally, an innate curiosity about yourself, your life, and the broader world, combined with a genuine empathy for others, are essential. This combination of qualities ensures a meaningful and enriching experience with Downshift, fostering both personal growth and deep connections within our community.

While Downshift is designed for high performers in transition, it also benefits anyone feeling stuck, questioning their life trajectory, experiencing burnout, seeking more alignment and intentionality, or longing for a deeper connection to their work and life. Every participant in our first cohort was either ending a chapter or navigating a liminal space. If you're contemplating significant changes or seeking clarity and purpose, Downshift can provide valuable perspectives, insights, and tools.

Participants are encouraged to carefully consider their commitment prior to applying due to the transformative and intensive nature of Downshift. If you decide to leave the program or are asked to leave for any reason, we will work with you to find a solution that suits both you and Downshift.

Here’s how our policy works:

1. Initial Reflection Period: We understand that committing to a transformative program is a significant decision. We encourage you to take time before applying to reflect on your readiness and ability to commit to the program's demands.

2. Refund Timeline: If you choose to leave the program within the first two weeks, you may be eligible for a partial refund. After this period, refunds will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

3. Customized Solutions: In situations where participants must leave the program due to unforeseen circumstances, we aim to provide flexible solutions. This may include deferring your participation to a future cohort or receiving credit for other Downshift offerings.

4. Communication: Open communication is key. If you are facing difficulties, we encourage you to reach out to us as soon as possible. We are committed to working with you to find a resolution that honors your investment and respects the integrity of the program.

Our policy reflects our dedication to the value and impact of the Downshift experience, ensuring that each participant can fully benefit from their journey.