Sarah Bern: Power, Joy & Redefining Strength in Women’s Sport

The Game Changers

The Game Changers
Sarah Bern: Power, Joy & Redefining Strength in Women’s Sport
Oct 21, 2025 Season 21 Episode 1
Sue Anstiss

“It’s so easy to chase perfection, but it doesn’t exist. The whole world is built on imperfection - and that’s what makes it beautiful.”

It was our privilege to talk to World Cup winner and Bristol Bears tighthead Sarah Bern for today's episode of The Game Changers podcast as she relives that history-making day at Twickenham and what's to follow. 

Sarah candidly traces her journey from a teenager wrestling with body image to a visible role model for strong, muscular women. Authentic on and off the pitch, Sarah shares how Ilona Maher’s arrival at Bristol Bears helped her find her own voice on social media - a powerful tool to drive change and open vital commercial doors for female athletes.

Sarah takes us behind the scenes - sharing what it's feels like in an England scrum or waiting in the tunnel walk to walk out in front of 82,000 fans. 

We also talk about the crossover of fashion and women's sport with the launch of her own clothing label - Below the Shoulder - with her teammates, a Vogue photoshoot and how Red Roses merchandise has been selling out in stores.

Looking ahead, Sarah calls for true equality across sport as we judge female athletes by what happens on the pitch, not by their appearance.

Her legacy goal is simple and powerful - to help women feel comfortable in their own skin so they can attack life with purpose and joy.

Thank you to Sport England who support The Game Changers Podcast with a National Lottery award.

Find out more about The Game Changers podcast here: https://www.fearlesswomen.co.uk/thegamechangers

Hosted by Sue Anstiss
Produced by Sam Walker, What Goes On Media

A Fearless Women production