From PR to Purpose: How Sarah Jepson Found Her True Calling

After sixteen years of running a thriving PR and marketing agency, Sarah Jepson did something few would dare — she walked away. What began as a side project born from her own longing for connection and authenticity soon became a global movement: Six Degrees. Today, Sarah is redefining what success looks like for women in business — blending ambition with wellbeing, and proving that the most powerful growth happens when we lead from truth, not titles.

You built a successful PR & Marketing agency from the ground up – what made you decide to walk away from it all in 2025?

In truth, Six Degrees was born while I was still running my agency. I created what I was missing as an entrepreneur, mother and leader — a space for real connection, honesty and growth. Over time, I realised that building and nurturing Six Degrees lit me up in a way that agency life no longer did. I couldn’t ignore that feeling any longer. So, I made the bold decision to step fully into my purpose. Now, I’m using all the skills I honed over sixteen years in business — strategy, scaling, storytelling, leadership — not just to grow Six Degrees as a company, but to help our members grow too.

What was the spark or moment that led to the creation of Six Degrees?

It started with the realisation that women like me were craving more than business advice — we wanted connection. I saw brilliant women burning out, doubting themselves, and feeling isolated in their success. I knew we needed spaces that went deeper than surface-level networking — places where women could share not just strategies, but stories. That’s how Six Degrees began: as a small, supportive circle that quickly grew into a global community.

How would you describe what Six Degrees really is – beyond being a business community?

Six Degrees is a movement — a collective of women who want to build success without losing themselves. It’s where wellbeing and ambition meet; where women can grow their businesses, deepen their confidence, and connect with others who understand what it takes to build something meaningful.

You often talk about building success without losing yourself. What does that balance look like for you now?

Balance for me is about living in alignment — building a business that fits my life, not forcing my life to fit the business. It means creating space for joy, health and purpose alongside growth. I’ve learned that sustainable success starts with self-awareness, boundaries, and giving yourself permission to slow down when needed.

How has your personal journey shaped the way you lead and support other women?

My personal story — including surviving sexual abuse and domestic abuse — is at the heart of how I lead. I know what it means to rebuild, to find your voice again, and to believe in your own worth. That gives me empathy and depth as a mentor. I don’t lead from perfection; I lead from experience, resilience and truth.

What do you think holds many women back from fully stepping into their potential?

Confidence and self-belief — or rather, the lack of them. So many women have the talent and drive but get trapped by self-doubt and the inner critic. The narrative of “who am I to do this?” can be paralysing. Through Six Degrees, we help women rewrite that story and reconnect with their courage. When confidence rises, everything else follows.

Can you share one of your proudest moments since starting Six Degrees?

Launching Six Degrees and attracting 50 founding members right from the start was incredible — proof that women were ready for something real. Since then, we’ve hosted large-scale events like our ELEVATE summit, which drew over 500 women online, and we were honoured to win an Exeter Living Award, being described as “profoundly impacting the lives of women.” But honestly, the greatest pride comes from watching our members rise — seeing them launch, lead, and live in ways they once only dreamed of.

You run events across the UK – what kind of energy and transformation do you see when women come together in person?

It’s electric — like something wakes up in the room. When women gather in person, there’s an unspoken understanding and an instant sense of belonging. You can feel the energy shift — it’s laughter, courage, and a shared drive to rise together. Those moments remind me why this work matters.

What’s next for Six Degrees as you look to grow and expand globally?

We’re relaunching in 2026 with a renewed vision — expanding our membership platform, building ambassador networks across the UK and beyond, and actively pursuing angel investment to accelerate our global growth. Our goal is to scale impact without losing intimacy — to build a truly international sisterhood where women can connect and collaborate across borders.

Finally, what message would you give to women who feel ready for more but don’t know where to start?

Start small, but start true. You don’t need to have it all figured out — just take one brave step in the direction that feels most like you. Surround yourself with women who see your potential and remind you of your power. Confidence comes from action, not perfection — so take the step, and the path will unfold.