Sarah Sheehan, Co-Founder and CEO of Bravely, reflects on leading with empathy, owning her voice, and why community is everything.

For Sarah, founding Bravely wasn’t just a milestone, it was a leap into the unknown that demanded courage, clarity, and a commitment to creating something new. It taught her that vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness, and that leadership is most powerful when it’s human.

She shares the reality of navigating bias and being underestimated, and how the support of other women helped her stay grounded and resilient. Now, she pays that forward with intention.

Her advice? Don’t wait to feel “ready.” Speak up. Trust your instincts. And build your circle with people who want to see you grow.

Her mantra? Rest is fuel. Lead with empathy. And lift as you climb.

Read more from Sarah here…

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What has been your career-defining moment as a woman in business?

Founding Bravely has been the defining chapter of my career. I stepped into a space that didn’t exist yet and helped build it from the ground up. It required courage, trust, and a deep belief in the mission.

"Leading with empathy and vulnerability is a strength, not a liability."

Personally, it taught me to own my voice. Professionally, it proved that leading with empathy and vulnerability is a strength, not a liability.

Were there any obstacles you had to overcome as a woman in business?

Too many to count! I’ve been underestimated, talked over, or expected to justify my seat at the table countless times. But I’ve also found strength in community.

Many women in my life have pulled me up when I needed it by offering advice or critical feedback and reminding me who I am and what I am capable of accomplishing. Those moments saved me. I try to pay this forward as often as I can.

What advice would you give to a younger woman looking to join your industry?

"Speak up. Ask for what you want. Trust your instincts."

You don’t have to wait until you’re “ready.” Speak up. Ask for what you want. Trust your instincts. Get rid of anyone in your life who leaves you feeling less than, and surround yourself with people who are invested in your growth.

The work is hard enough, and having a support system and people who have your best interests in mind is critical. And understand, it will not be a large group of people.

If you could do one thing to accelerate the pace of change for gender equality, what would it be?

Hold leaders accountable and take steps to create more self-awareness in them. Gender equality and DEI in general won’t move without action at the top. You can’t change what you don’t see or understand. Bias is alive and well and leaders need to see it in themselves to be motivated to change it.

What compelled you to attend a Panelle event?

The founder, Lisa, and the women she surrounds herself with! They embody honesty, ambition, and solidarity. Zero performance, which resonated with me deeply. That kind of authenticity is rare and powerful.

What advice would you give to your younger self?

Be bolder, sooner. You already know more than you think. Trust your voice and instincts. Feel the fear and do it anyway.

What’s your go-to advice for preventing burnout?

"Surround yourself with people who remind you to rest, not just to run."

You can’t pour from an empty cup. Schedule your recovery time like you schedule meetings. Step outside, breathe, and get quiet. And surround yourself with people who remind you to rest, not just to run.

Why do you think it’s important for women to help other women win?

My favourite quote is from is from Madeline Albright and I believe this in my bones:

“There is a special place in hell for women who don't help other women.”

Success isn’t a zero-sum game. The more women who rise, the more possibilities we (and our daughters) get to shift entire systems and . There’s power in showing up for each other - loudly, consistently, and without apology.

Finally, please put the spotlight on another woman in business who either inspires you or has pulled out the seat for you.

Two people come to mind. My first boss and dear friend, Sara Patterson who is the Chief People Officer at Simpro Group. Sara has always shown up for me with generosity, insight, and tough love when I need it.  

My friend and fellow founder, Esther Park, CEO of Nara Organics, who is my Chief Commiseration and Humor Officer. I call her daily to talk about the highs and lows of being a CEO.

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