Chirag's Interview with Bold Journey

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Chirag Shah. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Chirag, really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?

My purpose was shaped by my family’s journey and the lessons they instilled in me. Watching my parents build a life from the ground up, overcoming immense challenges, taught me the power of perseverance, sacrifice, and hard work. Their story gave me a deep understanding of what it means to create something meaningful—not just for myself but for others.

Through Made Equal, I found a way to merge my personal experiences with a larger mission. I wanted to build something that stood for more than just clothing—it had to represent resilience, inclusivity, and the idea that no matter where you come from, you have the power to shape your own path. Stepping outside of traditional expectations, taking risks, and embracing entrepreneurship helped me realize that my purpose isn’t just about financial success—it’s about using my platform to inspire and uplift others.

Finding my purpose wasn’t a single moment; it was a journey of pushing past comfort zones, learning from my failures, and staying true to my values. Every challenge, every lesson, and every person I impact reinforces why I do what I do.

Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?

I’m the founder of two businesses that reflect different sides of my passion: The Current Agency and Made Equal Clothing Co.

The Current Agency is a digital marketing firm based in Tallahassee, Florida, where we focus on branding, design, and strategic marketing to help businesses and organizations grow with purpose. What makes this work so exciting is the storytelling—we help clients communicate who they are and what they stand for in a way that resonates and drives impact. From local nonprofits to national campaigns, we get to work with a wide range of clients, and no two days are the same.

On the other side, I also started Made Equal Clothing Co., a streetwear brand built on the belief that everyone deserves to be seen, heard, and valued. It’s more than fashion—it’s a platform for conversations around equality, unity, and identity. We design pieces that inspire confidence and community, and we often collaborate with local creatives and changemakers to bring that vision to life.

Both brands are growing in their own unique ways. At The Current, we’re expanding our creative services and launching new campaigns across the Southeast. With Made Equal, we’re working on new drops and storytelling content that elevates voices often left out of the mainstream.

At the core of everything I do is a commitment to creativity, connection, and using business as a force for good.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

Looking back, three qualities that have been most impactful in my journey are adaptability, storytelling, and community-building.

Adaptability has been key—especially as a founder of two very different ventures. Whether I’m leading a digital marketing campaign with The Current Agency or launching a new drop for Made Equal Clothing Co., things rarely go exactly as planned. Being open to change, learning quickly, and pivoting when necessary has helped both businesses grow and stay relevant.

Storytelling has been the foundation of everything I do. At The Current Agency, we help brands tell their stories with clarity and purpose. With Made Equal, storytelling is woven into every piece of clothing—it’s about amplifying voices and creating conversations that matter. If you can clearly and authentically communicate who you are and why you do what you do, you’ll connect with people on a deeper level.

Community-building has made the biggest difference. Surrounding myself with a strong network of collaborators, supporters, and mentors has been vital. Both brands are rooted in real relationships—whether that’s clients, customers, or creatives—and that’s what keeps the work meaningful.

For anyone early in their journey, my advice is:

Stay curious and keep learning—especially when it comes to your craft and industry.

Practice telling your story—not just your business plan, but your why.

And invest in your community, because success is never a solo mission.

Alright so to wrap up, who deserves credit for helping you overcome challenges or build some of the essential skills you’ve needed?

I’ve been fortunate to have some incredible people in my corner, but without a doubt, the most impactful has been Savannah Swindle—my business partner, creative director, and best friend.

Savannah has been with me since day one, through every challenge, pivot, and breakthrough. While I may be the face of the companies, she is truly the heart and soul of both The Current Agency and Made Equal Clothing Co. Her creativity, intuition, and relentless dedication have saved me more times than I can count. Whether it’s late-night problem solving, designing something incredible under pressure, or just showing up when things feel heavy—she’s always there.

She sees the vision just as clearly as I do and brings it to life with a level of care and brilliance that’s unmatched. My success doesn’t happen without her. She’s not just a collaborator—she’s family.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned on this journey, it’s that the people you build with matter just as much as what you’re building. And having Savannah by my side has made all the difference.