Sue Barrett: Unveiling The Woman Behind The Legacy And The Vision

Marilyne Reynolds I 21 Jun 2025

In the vibrant tapestry of public figures, some individuals choose to weave their stories with threads of quiet dignity, allowing their work and character to speak volumes rather than seeking the glare of the spotlight. One such remarkable person is Sue Barrett. While many may know her as the beloved wife of the late, iconic "Dancing with the Stars" judge, Len Goodman, her influence extends far beyond her personal life. Sue Barrett is a formidable force in the business world, a visionary leader, and a passionate advocate for ethical practices. This article delves into the multifaceted life of Sue Barrett, exploring her professional prowess, her commitment to societal betterment, and the enduring legacy she continues to build.

Her journey is a compelling narrative of transformation, from a professional dance instructor to a highly respected CEO and thought leader in sales and communications. Sue Barrett embodies a unique blend of empathy, strategic acumen, and unwavering principles, making her a truly inspiring figure in both her personal and professional spheres. Her story is a testament to the power of quiet dedication and profound impact.

The Enduring Legacy of Sue Barrett: Beyond the Spotlight

For many, the name Sue Barrett first resonates as the cherished wife of the late Len Goodman, the much-loved judge from "Dancing with the Stars." Len Goodman, a figure synonymous with charm, wit, and ballroom expertise, frequently spoke of his "wonderful Sue" with immense fondness, a testament to the deep affection and respect he held for her. Their relationship was a private affair, blossoming over a decade before they exchanged vows in a secret ceremony when Len was 68 years old. This quiet union, away from the public eye, perfectly encapsulated Sue Barrett's preference for privacy, a characteristic that defines much of her life.

Their love story was one of enduring partnership, built on mutual admiration and a shared appreciation for a life lived away from constant scrutiny. Sue, nearly 20 years younger than Len, brought a different dynamic to his life, one that he clearly cherished. While Len Goodman had been married once before, to his dance partner Cherry Kingston when he was 28, his marriage to Sue Barrett marked a significant chapter in his later years. Upon his passing on April 22, 2023, at the age of 78 due to bone cancer, Len Goodman was survived by Sue and his son, James William Goodman, whom he shared with a woman named Lesley. Sue Barrett, throughout their time together and even after his passing, has maintained her dignified silence, choosing to honor their bond through her actions rather than public declarations, reinforcing her commitment to keeping her personal life truly personal.

A Glimpse into Sue Barrett's Personal Profile

While Sue Barrett is renowned for her discretion, certain details about her life paint a picture of a woman of substance and dedication:

Attribute	Detail
Name	Sue Barrett
Known For	Wife of the late Len Goodman; Founder & CEO of Barrett & The Selling Better Movement
Profession(s)	Former Professional Dance Instructor, Business Consultant, Author, Campaign Manager, Community Organiser, Sales & Communications Advisor
Marital Status	Widowed
Spouse	Late Len Goodman
Relationship with Len Goodman	Married for over a decade, nearly 20 years younger than him.
Privacy Stance	Highly protective of her privacy; prefers to stay out of the spotlight.
Business Affiliation	Founder & CEO of Barrett (est. 1995) and The Selling Better Movement
Key Beliefs	Champion of ethical and sustainable business practices, empathy, clarity, fairness, inclusivity.

From Dance Floors to Boardrooms: Sue Barrett's Professional Evolution

Before becoming a prominent figure in the business world, Sue Barrett honed her skills as a professional dance instructor. This background, though seemingly disparate from the corporate arena, likely instilled in her a unique understanding of rhythm, precision, communication, and the importance of leading with clarity – qualities that are invaluable in any leadership role. The transition from the structured elegance of dance to the dynamic complexities of business leadership is a testament to her adaptability, intelligence, and foresight.

In 1995, Sue Barrett embarked on a new chapter, founding Barrett, a sales and communications advisory firm. This marked the beginning of her significant contributions to the corporate landscape. Her decision to establish her own firm over two decades ago speaks volumes about her entrepreneurial spirit and her early recognition of the evolving needs within sales and communication. From its inception, Barrett has been dedicated to helping organizations worldwide achieve sustainable growth, reflecting Sue's long-term vision and her commitment to foundational, rather than fleeting, success.

Barrett and The Selling Better Movement: A Paradigm Shift in Business

At the core of Sue Barrett's professional identity lies her pioneering work with Barrett and the revolutionary "Selling Better Movement." Her firm, established in 1995, is not just another sales consultancy; it is a beacon for a more empathetic, ethical, and effective approach to business growth. Sue Barrett and her team work with organizations across the globe, guiding leaders and teams in creating and operating highly successful sustainable business growth systems, strategies, teams, and cultures. This holistic approach recognizes that true business success is not merely about closing deals, but about fostering an environment of integrity and long-term value.

The "Selling Better Movement" is a philosophy championed by Sue Barrett that advocates for a fundamental shift in how businesses engage with their clients and operate internally. It's about moving beyond transactional interactions to building genuine, trust-based relationships. This movement emphasizes leading, engaging, and selling with empathy and clarity, aiming for fairer work practices, more inclusive societies, and truth in public life. In an era often characterized by aggressive sales tactics, Sue Barrett offers a refreshing and much-needed alternative, demonstrating that profitability and principles are not mutually exclusive but, in fact, mutually reinforcing. Her vision is to empower businesses to thrive by doing good, making the world a better place one ethical transaction at a time.

Championing Ethical Business and Societal Change

Beyond her role as a business leader, Sue Barrett is a fervent champion of ethical and sustainable business practices. Her commitment extends beyond the boardroom, as evidenced by her active involvement as a campaign manager and a community organizer. These roles highlight her dedication to broader societal issues, demonstrating that her principles are not confined to her professional endeavors but are deeply ingrained in her personal convictions. She actively supports initiatives that promote fairer work environments, advocating for policies and practices that ensure equitable treatment and opportunities for all.

Her work towards inclusive societies is another cornerstone of her advocacy. Sue Barrett understands that a thriving economy is inextricably linked to a just and equitable society. She believes in the power of truth in public life, recognizing that transparency and honesty are crucial for building trust, not just in business, but in all aspects of human interaction. As a book author, she further disseminates her insights and philosophies, providing tangible guidance for individuals and organizations seeking to align their operations with higher ethical standards. Her holistic approach to business and life reflects a profound belief in the interconnectedness of economic success and social responsibility.

The Authority in Sales: Sue Barrett's Thought Leadership

Sue Barrett's expertise in sales and communications is widely recognized and highly respected within the industry. She is not merely a practitioner but a true thought leader, regarded by many business press publishers as the most authoritative voice in sales. This reputation is built on years of experience, a deep understanding of market dynamics, and a consistent commitment to sharing knowledge that genuinely helps others succeed. Her insights are not theoretical; they are grounded in practical application and evidence-based methodologies.

For several years, Sue Barrett has been publishing insightful sales articles on her blog, providing a valuable resource for professionals seeking to enhance their skills and adopt more effective strategies. These articles delve into complex topics with clarity and actionable advice, making sophisticated concepts accessible to a broad audience. Furthermore, she maintains a Substack publication titled "Every solution begins with a conversation," which boasts hundreds of subscribers. This platform allows her to engage more deeply with her audience, offering nuanced perspectives and fostering a community around her principles. Her ability to combine evidence and practice in a way that directly relates to her audience helps spark meaningful and lasting change, solidifying her status as a preeminent authority in her field.

A Commitment to Inclusivity and Acknowledgment

A distinctive aspect of Sue Barrett's leadership and her firm's ethos is her profound respect for Indigenous cultures and her commitment to inclusivity. Sue Barrett publicly acknowledges the original custodians of the land on which she meets and works, specifically mentioning the land of the Boon Wurrung people of the Kulin Nation, where her head office is based, as well as other lands and nations within Australia. This acknowledgment extends to recognizing their elders – past, present, and emerging.

This practice is more than a formality; it is a reflection of her deeply held values regarding respect, reconciliation, and the importance of diverse perspectives. By integrating such acknowledgments into her business practices, Sue Barrett sets a powerful example for other organizations. It underscores her belief that true business success and societal progress are intertwined with cultural awareness, historical understanding, and a genuine commitment to creating an inclusive environment where all voices are heard and valued. This dedication to acknowledging and honoring Indigenous heritage further distinguishes her as a leader who prioritizes ethical conduct and social responsibility.

Navigating Public Life with Grace and Privacy: The Sue Barrett Way

In an age where personal lives are often meticulously documented and shared on social media, Sue Barrett stands out for her unwavering commitment to privacy. As Len Goodman himself noted, "Not much is known about her, as Len previously said, Sue has stayed out of the spotlight." This deliberate choice to maintain a low profile, even as her husband enjoyed immense public adoration, speaks volumes about her character. She is protective of her privacy and doesn't "splash her business around on social media." Their wedding, a secret ceremony, was a perfect embodiment of this preference, a deeply personal moment shared only by those closest to them.

This discretion is not a sign of aloofness but rather a testament to her focus on substance over spectacle. While many public figures leverage social platforms for personal branding, Sue Barrett chooses to let her professional achievements and the impact of her work speak for themselves. This approach allows her to maintain a clear boundary between her public professional persona and her private life, fostering an environment where her expertise is valued for its merit, rather than being overshadowed by personal narratives. It’s a refreshing example of navigating the demands of a public-facing role while preserving one’s personal sanctuary.

The Importance of Privacy in a Public World

In a world increasingly characterized by constant connectivity and the blurring lines between personal and professional lives, Sue Barrett's approach to privacy offers valuable lessons. Her decision to guard her personal space allows her to focus her energy on her significant professional endeavors and her advocacy work without the distractions or pressures that often accompany public scrutiny. This deliberate choice underscores the importance of maintaining personal boundaries, even for individuals who operate in influential spheres. It highlights that true impact can be achieved through focused, dedicated work, rather than through the constant performance of one's life for an audience. Her method demonstrates that authenticity and influence do not require constant self-disclosure, but rather a strategic and principled approach to engagement.

The Impact and Influence of Sue Barrett's Work

As the Founder and CEO of Barrett (established in 1995) and the Selling Better Movement, Sue Barrett's influence extends across the globe. She works with organizations worldwide, guiding leaders and teams to create and operate highly successful sustainable business growth systems, strategies, teams, and cultures. Her methodology is not about quick fixes but about building enduring frameworks that foster consistent, ethical growth. The longevity of her firm, founded nearly three decades ago, is a testament to the enduring relevance and effectiveness of her approach.

Her impact is felt through the transformation of sales practices, moving them from aggressive, short-sighted tactics to empathetic, long-term relationship building. By supporting people to lead, engage, and sell with empathy and clarity, she contributes to fairer work environments and more inclusive societies. Her work ultimately aims to embed truth in public life, starting from the foundational interactions within businesses. There are not many people in the world like Sue Barrett; she combines evidence and practice in a way that directly relates to her clients, helping to spark meaningful and sustainable change that resonates far beyond individual companies.

Building Sustainable Business Growth Systems

A core tenet of Sue Barrett's work is the development of "sustainable business growth systems." This concept goes beyond mere revenue targets; it encompasses creating resilient, ethical, and adaptive structures that can withstand market fluctuations and societal changes. She emphasizes the importance of building strong teams and fostering positive cultures, recognizing that people are the bedrock of any successful enterprise. Her strategies are designed to ensure that growth is not only profitable but also responsible, contributing positively to employees, customers, and the broader community. By focusing on sustainability, Sue Barrett helps organizations achieve long-term viability and a lasting, positive impact, cementing her reputation as a forward-thinking leader in business advisory.

Conclusion

Sue Barrett is a woman of quiet strength and profound influence, whose life is a compelling blend of personal discretion and professional prowess. While many initially knew her as the cherished wife of the late Len Goodman, her independent contributions as the Founder and CEO of Barrett and the visionary behind the Selling Better Movement have cemented her legacy as an authoritative leader in sales and a champion of ethical business practices. Her journey from a dance instructor to a global business consultant underscores her remarkable adaptability and her unwavering commitment to fostering sustainable growth, empathy, and truth in the corporate world.

Her dedication to privacy, coupled with her impactful work in promoting ethical leadership and societal inclusivity, makes her an inspiring figure. Sue Barrett demonstrates that true influence is built on substance, integrity, and a genuine desire to make a positive difference. We encourage you to explore her work further through her blog and her Substack publication, "Every solution begins with a conversation," to gain deeper insights into her transformative approach to business and life. What aspects of Sue Barrett's philosophy resonate most with you? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and consider sharing this article to spread awareness of her remarkable contributions.

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