71. Balloons, Biology, and the Courage to be Uncomfortable with Dr. Chloe Lim

The Quiet Warrior Podcast with Serena Low

Meet Dr. Chloe Lim—a molecular biologist turned entrepreneur, educator, and balloon artist. Chloe shares how pursuing an academic career in biomedical science led her to discovering a passion for creativity and entrepreneurship.

We discuss the challenges of imposter syndrome, redefining success, and embracing unexpected career pivots. We also dive into how parents can nurture curiosity and an interest in the sciences in children (even if they don’t have a STEM background), the power of self-reflection, and how micro steps can help us build confidence in the face of fear.

If you've ever felt that creativity is only for people who are naturally artistic, or that creativity and logic cannot co-exist, this episode is for you.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
✅ How Chloe transitioned from being a scientist to a creative entrepreneur
✅ The power of self-reflection and defining success on your own terms
✅ Why curiosity is key—and how parents can encourage it in their children
✅ How to push past imposter syndrome and stay in your own lane
✅ The importance of growth mindset, adaptability, and resourcefulness in career shifts
✅ Chloe’s experience on Blow Up, an Australian reality TV show for balloon artists

Guest Bio:
Dr. Chloe Lim is a molecular biologist, regulatory scientist, and entrepreneur who combines her love of science with creativity. She’s the founder of Giggly Wiggly Balloons, where she uses balloon art to inspire and educate. She also hosts CALD Voices in STEM, a podcast that highlights culturally and linguistically diverse women who are breaking barriers and making their mark in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Connect with Dr. Chloe Lim:
Dr. Chloe Lim’s website
Giggly Wiggly Balloons
Twistyfic
CALD Voices in STEM Podcast
What Makes You Unique book
Instagram | LinkedIn

If You Enjoyed This Episode:

Subscribe to The Quiet Warrior Podcast so you never miss an episode.
Leave a review — it really helps us reach more quiet achievers like you!
Join The Visible Introvert community for introvert wisdom from the head + heart.

This episode was edited by Aura House Productions

Chapters

1. Introduction to Quiet Warrior Podcast (00:00:00)

2. Dr Chloe's Academic Journey (00:01:40)

3. Parental Influence on Career Choices (00:08:40)

4. Teaching Children to Think Scientifically (00:13:40)

5. From Science to Balloon Entrepreneurship (00:19:40)

6. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome (00:26:30)

7. Growth Mindset and Embracing Discomfort (00:35:00)

8. Voices in STEM Podcast and Closing (00:43:00)