Matthew Egan

Healing from the "Anxious Achiever" Cycle

Advisor, Thinker and Author on Leading Change — Speaker

Healing Conversation #1338

— Today we explore the transformative power of failure with business transformation specialist and author Matthew Egan. In his groundbreaking book, The Failure Advantage: Why Setbacks Are Your Secret Weapon for Success, Matt challenges conventional beliefs about failure. He argues that our most significant missteps are not enemies but rather powerful allies that can propel us toward success. Are you a high-achieving professional burdened by the fear of failure? You’re not alone. Many of us mask our struggles with polished performances, but underneath lies burnout and doubt. Matt helps us break free from fear-based thinking and reframe our setbacks as valuable feedback.

Drawing on real-world case studies, cognitive science, and his own experiences, Matt teaches us how to cultivate resilience, embrace risk-taking, and lead with authenticity. Join us as we dive into insightful discussions about how to reclaim failure as a catalyst for growth and leverage it into your unfair advantage in both your career and life.

Get ready to learn how to stop playing defense and start thriving in the face of adversity.

Valeria interviews Matthew Egan — He is the author of  The Failure Advantage — an Advisor, Thinker and Writer on Leading Change.

Matthew Egan has over 20 years of experience leading change at organizations, including Microsoft and PwC. Throughout his career managing teams, working with C-suite executives, and driving transformation projects, he has observed how setbacks can either limit potential or serve as powerful catalysts for growth. Matthew is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants, and recipient of multiple business accolades, but it’s his personal experience with anxiety and failure that shapes his approach. Having faced his own professional challenges, he’s passionate about helping others transform their relationship with failure. 

Originally from Australia and now based in the UK, Matthew lives with his wife and son, who continue to teach him the most valuable lessons about embracing imperfection and finding opportunity in adversity. 

Learn more about Matthew Egan!