Letting Go to Level Up: The Shadow Side of Success | Mel Yu
Jun 03, 2025
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When we think of success, we often picture growth, momentum, and celebration. But for powerhouse entrepreneur Mel Yu, success has often looked like something much harder: letting go.
In this episode, I sit down with Mel to explore the unspoken side of entrepreneurship—the moments when success means releasing a business, team, or identity that no longer aligns. Known for building multiple businesses and a powerful personal brand, Mel reveals how she made the decision to shut down a profitable company, the emotional fallout that followed, and how she’s now anchoring her brand for deeper impact and alignment.
Navigating the Hard Decisions of Entrepreneurship
Most entrepreneurs are taught to chase growth at all costs—but Mel shares why that mindset became unsustainable. After years of hustling, leading teams, and juggling multiple ventures, she was forced to ask the hardest question in business:
“Is this still aligned with the version of me I’m becoming?”
The answer was a clear no. And that’s when the real work began.
Why Letting Go is a Growth Strategy
Mel doesn’t sugarcoat what it’s like to let go of a team, close a business, or be misunderstood online. She talks about being labeled a “bitch” or “too much,” and how she had to make peace with being seen as the villain in someone else’s story—all in the name of protecting her vision.
Instead of selling from a place of her own fears or finances, Mel now makes decisions through the lens of her dream client’s mindset—something she says has radically shifted her sales, confidence, and messaging.
Personal Brand Evolution: Selling With Integrity
As Mel rebuilds and repositions her personal brand, she shares the mindset behind moving from people-pleasing into power. She speaks candidly about the difference between being “nice” and being “kind”—and why the latter always wins in business.
She also offers tangible advice for other entrepreneurs feeling the pull to pivot, realign, or go all-in on a new direction.
Key Takeaways from the Episode:
- How to know when it’s time to pivot or shut down a business
- The emotional toll of letting go—and why it’s necessary
- Rebranding your personal brand from a place of power, not pressure
- The mindset shift from people-pleasing to purpose-led leadership
- Why being misunderstood is often a sign of next-level growth
If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Can I really walk away from this?” — this episode will give you the courage to do exactly that.
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