Failing Forward: Lessons in Growth, Leadership, and Coffee Culture | Sacha Coburn

From failing her first ballet exam to leading Coffee Culture, Sacha Coburn's journey demonstrates the power of learning through failure. She shares how this early setback became a pivotal moment, teaching her resilience that would serve her throughout her business career.

Sacha discusses the challenges facing hospitality post-COVID, including skyrocketing coffee bean prices and the delicate balance of maintaining value while preserving margins. Rather than focusing solely on financial metrics, she emphasises how Coffee Culture's success stems from genuine passion for customer experience and creating opportunities for franchisees.

On leadership, Sacha highlights the importance of creating inclusive cultures that welcome diversity rather than seeking people who "fit" existing moulds. She notes how business communities often overvalue financial success while undervaluing other forms of wisdom, reflecting on how wealth amplifies voices regardless of their merit.

Her experience with cancer reinforced rather than changed her approach to life—embracing opportunities and living fully. She describes her "festival of 50" philosophy: "Don't block the blessing" and "not a single day more is promised," prioritising meaningful experiences and connections.

Throughout, Sacha demonstrates a refreshing self-awareness about gender dynamics in business, the weight of societal expectations on working mothers, and the value of creating environments where diverse voices can thrive.