SHIRLEY MATHEW: Empowering Transformation Through Soul Coaching

With a diverse background spanning the corporate world, entrepreneurship, and education, Shirley Mathew’s path has been one of continuous evolution—personally, professionally, and spiritually. But her most profound transformation came when she stepped into her true calling: helping others reclaim their power through soul coaching.

As a Certified Soul Coaching® Practitioner, Shirley blends her wealth of experience to guide individuals, especially parents and educators, toward self-awareness, authenticity, and empowerment. Through her platform, Train Every Muscle, she equips people with the tools they need to rewrite their personal narratives and create lasting change in their own lives and in the lives of those they serve.

Shirley’s personal journey has been deeply intertwined with love, faith, and self-reflection. Her bond with her husband, which began when she was just 11 years old, has been a constant source of strength and growth. Throughout their 18-year marriage, Shirley and her husband have navigated life’s challenges with friendship and faith as their foundation. Together, they are raising two teenagers—who, in many ways, have served as catalysts for Shirley’s own healing journey.

During her Zoom interview with VBD Magazine, Shirley shared her inspiring journey and the transformative power of soul coaching. With a calm, reassuring presence, she offered a glimpse into her practice—demonstrating how moments of introspection and guided self-awareness can create shifts in mindset, ultimately leading to lasting transformation.

Finding Her Path

Shirley was born in Houston, Texas, to Indian immigrant parents, but at a young age, her family relocated to New York, bringing a major cultural shift. She describes the transition as “a complete culture shock,” moving from a suburban Texas life to the fast-paced, high-energy atmosphere of New York City.

After earning her Bachelor of Business Administration in Management from Pace University in New York, Shirley felt a strong pull to return to Texas. “I always knew I wanted to go back, but I didn’t know how the door would open. I just knew New York wasn’t for me, and if I stayed, I wouldn’t make it,” she recalls.

Shirley’s faith played an integral role in her journey. “I started my spiritual journey after college. I attended church frequently, accepted Christ, and things began shifting internally. Living in New York, I just felt like I was coming out of alignment, with the fast-paced lifestyle that didn’t match where my heart was leading me.”

After returning to Texas, Shirley followed a familiar pattern—entering the corporate world and adopting the hustle-and-grind mindset she had learned in New York. In the corporate space, she developed a strong foundation in leadership, problem-solving, and fostering meaningful connections. However, she soon realized that while professional success was fulfilling in some ways, it lacked the deeper purpose she craved.

From Corporate Leadership To Soul Coaching

The desire for deeper impact continued to stir within her, leading Shirley to explore paths that blended her skills, passion, and a greater sense of purpose. She transitioned into entrepreneurship, running her own business. Yet, it was her seven years as a teacher that truly ignited her passion for guiding and nurturing others.