Rewriting the Rules — Courage, Values, and the Power of Reinvention
What if you could redefine success not by what you achieve, but by how aligned it feels with who you are?
In this episode of Beyond the Ladder, I spoke with Sarah Matthew—a woman who has built and sold three businesses, coached leaders through blocks and breakthroughs, and most importantly, stayed anchored in her values throughout. Her story is a masterclass in brave reinvention.
Sarah shared pivotal moments when she chose to veer off the traditional path: leaving a high-ranking role at Glaxo to take a consultancy leap, and later walking away from the stability of WPP to co-found Virgo Health—as the primary breadwinner with a newborn at home. These weren’t impulsive decisions; they were intentional, guided by that powerful inner question: What if I don’t?
She also told the story of Bruce Collins, a marketing director at Johnson & Johnson who saw something in her when she was just a trainee. He moved her out of a soul-crushing placement and mentored her with radical candor. It wasn’t always easy, but it shaped the leader she became—one who now sets others free with the same mix of challenge and care.
Sarah’s legacy is one we all need to hear: You don’t have to choose between success and staying true to yourself. You can build a business—or a career—that reflects your values. In fact, that’s where real fulfillment lives.
If you’ve ever felt boxed in by rules that don’t quite fit, or wondered if it’s too late to start again, let Sarah’s story remind you: The rules are made up. You have more agency than you think.
Guest Feature: Sarah Matthew Founder, The Vibrant Company | Business Advisor & Transformative Coach
Sarah is a three-time entrepreneur, former global marketing leader, and the founder of The Vibrant Company. She works with leaders and teams to align strategy with inner clarity, helping them move through limiting beliefs and toward purposeful success.
The Story Behind the Episode
Sarah and I have worked together and shared many reflective conversations, but this one felt different—richer, deeper, more intentional. I invited her to the podcast because she represents what happens when we lead with both heart and boldness. Her ability to hold space for others while challenging what no longer serves them is, frankly, extraordinary..
Shortened Transcript Highlights
01:15 – “I started three businesses, sold them all, and now help others do the same — but in alignment.”
05:00 – “What if I don’t? What will I miss if I play it safe?”
09:00 – “We funded our business with our homes — and backed ourselves fully.”
15:50 – “Bruce Collins saw something in me. He pulled me out of a job that was slowly killing my spirit.”
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