Grit, Grace & Glitz with Erika Rothenberger

Hosted by Erika Rothenberger

Business Entrepreneurship Education Health FitnessInterviews guests

Website RSS feed

Episodes

230

Latest episode

Aug 2026

Language

EN-US

About the show

Join host Erika Rothenberger and her amazing guests as they share valuable learnings from their journeys in business and - life! Erika is a health + wellness biz founder, mom & wife, engineering corporate professional and published author. Her episodes will have you learning how to get gritty, give yourself the grace you deserve and celebrate all the glitz that comes to you along the way!

Listen to episodes

60 recent

August 11, 202629 min

The Grit To Embrace Discomfort And Define Success with Randi Roberts

Summary In this episode of Grit, Grace & Glitz, Erika Rothenberger sits down with Randi Roberts, a former pharmaceutical executive turned life and executive coach, to explore what it really means to define success on your own terms, and why constantly chasing the next accomplishment can keep us from appreciating how far we’ve come. Drawing from her 30+ years in the pharmaceutical industry and her experience building her own coaching business, Randi shares practical insights on creating a personal “North Star,” treating your life with intention, embracing discomfort as an opportunity for growth, and learning to navigate criticism without allowing other people's opinions to define you. She also opens up about a deeply personal health experience that taught her the importance of asking for help and allowing others to support her. The conversation ultimately challenges listeners to take audacious action, step outside their comfort zones, and recognize that they don't have to do life or success alone. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU’LL LEARN: How to define success based on your own values rather than society's expectations. Why high achievers can become addicted to chasing the next accomplishment. How to create your own personal “North Star” for life and career decisions. Why treating your life like a strategic business plan can help create clarity and direction. How to handle criticism and outside opinions without allowing them to define you. Why you don't have to speak to or please everyone to make a meaningful impact. How embracing discomfort can become an opportunity for growth. Why setting boundaries and saying “no” can be powerful acts of self-leadership. The importance of recognizing when you need to ask for help and lean on others. How a major health challenge taught Randi a powerful lesson about independence, vulnerability, and accepting support. What it takes to make an audacious career leap and leave the security of the corporate world. How intentional investments, structure, and mindset helped Randi build her coaching business. Why balance doesn't have to exist in every moment—it can be created over time. How to take small, purposeful audacious actions every day. Episode Timeline 00:25 Randy's transition from corporate to coaching 01:26 What does success mean to you? 02:19 The importance of values in defining success 03:13 Using strategic planning for personal growth 04:36 Making a positive impact while doing well 05:34 The role of clarity and self-awareness 06:28 Handling criticism and external judgment 07:45 Building resilience and thick skin 09:02 Overcoming fear and asking for help 10:17 The analogy of adding weight to grow 11:25 Welcoming discomfort as a growth opportunity 12:47 The importance of choosing your heart 14:06 Reprioritizing and maintaining well-being 16:19 The universe's messages and trusting intuition 18:10 Lessons from health challenges 19:41 The power of leaning on others 20:39 Being audacious in leaving the corporate world 22:46 Celebrating bold, audacious actions 23:43 Join the Audacious Women's Summit 24:02 Closing remarks and gratitude Where to Find Randi: Website: https://www.corlinroberts.net/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/randiroberts/ Connect with your host, Erika: LinkedIn (primary) https://www.linkedin.com/in/erikarothenberger IG https://www.instagram.com/erikalearothenberger?igsh=MmhjeTRhbnB1aXM2 FB https://www.facebook.com/share/69wqEYVzFKKnci9u/?mibextid=LQQJ4d Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

August 4, 202639 min

The Grace To Embrace Awkward Networking with Sean Hand

Summary In this episode of Grit, Grace & Glitz, Erika Rothenberger sits down with networking expert, keynote speaker, and bestselling author Sean Hand to explore why awkwardness is actually a normal part of building relationships—and how anyone can become a more confident networker. Drawing from his 15 years in Big Four consulting and his bestselling book The Seven Secrets of Awkward Networking, Sean shares practical strategies for making conversations feel natural, memorable, and authentic. He explains why asking about someone's vacation is one of the most powerful networking questions, how to keep the spotlight on the other person, and why preparation creates confidence. IN THIS EPISODE YOU'LL LEARN: Why networking feels awkward—and why that's completely normal. How confidence in networking is built through preparation and repetition. Sean's "WAVE" conversation framework for effortless conversations. Why asking about vacations creates deeper, safer conversations. How to keep the spotlight on the other person while leading the conversation. Simple ways to build meaningful relationships instead of transactional connections. How AI is changing networking—and why authentic human connection matters more than ever. Tips for creating an authentic personal brand on LinkedIn. Why consistency is the secret to building trust on social media. The importance of extending yourself grace after awkward moments. How self-confidence and forgiveness improve relationships and professional growth. Episode Timeline 01:55 – Why Sean created The Awkward Networker 04:30 – Confidence comes from practicing uncomfortable situations 05:35 – Sean's WAVE networking framework 06:30 – The "Vacation Question" that instantly improves conversations 11:20 – Why listening gives you more control than talking 13:20 – AI, networking, and the future of authentic communication 18:10 – Building a genuine personal brand on LinkedIn 22:45 – The importance of consistency on social media 24:00 – Using LinkedIn research before networking events 26:00 – Embracing awkward moments with humor 27:35 – Becoming your own biggest supporter 29:00 – Extending grace to others and strengthening relationships 31:20 – Final thoughts and closing message Where to Find Sean: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seanhand/ Connect with your host, Erika: LinkedIn (primary) https://www.linkedin.com/in/erikarothenberger IG https://www.instagram.com/erikalearothenberger?igsh=MmhjeTRhbnB1aXM2 FB https://www.facebook.com/share/69wqEYVzFKKnci9u/?mibextid=LQQJ4d Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

July 28, 202637 min

The Grace Behind the Power of Vulnerability with Tyler Dickerhoof

Summary In this episode of Grit, Grace and Glitz, host Erika Rothenberger sits down with leadership mentor, entrepreneur, and bestselling author Tyler Dickerhoof to explore the hidden experiences that shape our lives, leadership, and relationships. Inspired by his book The Things We Hide, Tyler shares the deeply personal story of losing his younger brother in a tragic farming accident and how decades of buried pain manifested as relentless intensity and achievement-driven leadership. Together, they discuss why vulnerability isn't weakness—it's the foundation of authentic leadership. Tyler explains how confronting the stories we've hidden allows us to replace fear with empathy, strengthen relationships, and lead with greater purpose. The conversation also explores authenticity, emotional healing, the importance of community, and how leaders can embrace AI as a productivity tool without sacrificing genuine human connection. This inspiring episode is a reminder that while personal transformation requires individual effort, we were never meant to grow alone. In This Episode, You'll Learn: Why achievement often becomes a mask for unresolved pain. How childhood trauma can quietly influence leadership and relationships. The difference between healthy intensity and destructive intensity. Why vulnerability creates stronger leaders and deeper connections. What authenticity truly means beyond being a popular buzzword. How hidden fears shape our decisions until we confront them. The importance of community in personal growth and healing. Practical ways leaders can embrace AI without losing human connection. Why growth is a lifelong journey of courage, empathy, and self-awareness. Tyler's powerful reminder: You have to do the work yourself—but you don't have to do it alone. Episode Timeline 01:10 – The Cost of Living Through Achievement 02:00 – The Pivotal Locker Room Moment That Changed Everything 03:30 – Losing His Brother and How Trauma Created Intensity 07:30 – When Intensity Builds Success—but Damages Relationships 08:00 – Why Tyler Finally Shared the Story He Hid for Decades 10:30 – The Things We Hide and How Hidden Pain Shapes Our Lives 12:15 – Authenticity vs. Perfection in Leadership 16:05 – Authentic Vulnerability vs. Toxic Vulnerability 18:00 – Embracing Your True Identity Without Apology 20:00 – Why People Can Sense Authenticity 24:30 – AI, Leadership, and the Future of Human Connection 30:50 – The Stories Left Out of the Book 33:30 – Healing Family Relationships and the Five R's Mindset 35:40 – Tyler's Greatest Leadership Lesson: Grow Together, Not Alone 37:00 – Final Thoughts & Where to Connect with Tyler Where to Find Tyler: Website: https://www.tylerdickerhoof.com/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/tyler_dickerhoof/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tylerdickerhoof/ Connect with your host, Erika: LinkedIn (primary) https://www.linkedin.com/in/erikarothenberger IG https://www.instagram.com/erikalearothenberger?igsh=MmhjeTRhbnB1aXM2 FB https://www.facebook.com/share/69wqEYVzFKKnci9u/?mibextid=LQQJ4d Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

July 21, 202637 min

The Grit to Decode the Face: Unlocking the Power of Human Connection with Brian Galke

Summary In this episode of Grit, Grace and Glitz, host Erika Rothenberger sits down with communication strategist and founder of Subtle Skills, Brian Galke, to discuss why genuine human connection has become one of the most valuable skills in today's technology-driven world. Brian shares how his journey from introvert to internationally recognized speaker began through studying body language, communication, and face reading. He explains how facial features reveal thinking patterns, how technology has unintentionally weakened authentic relationships, and why mastering soft skills is becoming a competitive advantage in both business and life. The conversation explores the importance of attending events, building meaningful relationships, creating opportunities through connection, and stepping outside of comfort zones. Brian also opens up about losing his corporate job after more than 21 years, how his passion project became his full-time career, and why waiting for validation can keep us from reaching our full potential. Together, Erika and Brian remind listeners that success isn't built through followers or technology alone, it's built through people, conversations, and showing genuine interest in others. In This Episode, You'll Learn: Why human connection is becoming more valuable in the age of AI. How face reading helps improve communication and relationships. The science behind facial expressions and personality traits. Why introverts can become exceptional communicators. How technology connects us digitally but disconnects us personally. The importance of attending events and getting into the right rooms. Why meaningful relationships create unexpected opportunities. How Brian turned losing his 21-year corporate career into entrepreneurial success. Why everyone should have a passion project outside of their full-time job. The danger of waiting for someone else's approval before pursuing your dreams. How serving and connecting others often creates the biggest opportunities. Why LinkedIn is one of the most powerful platforms for business growth. The importance of giving people your full attention. How a simple handwritten note or message can change—or even save—someone's life. Why soft skills are becoming the ultimate competitive advantage. Episode Timeline 02:00 – Why Human Connection Is Disappearing 08:00 – The Science of Face Reading 10:00 – Get Offline and Get in the Room 13:30 – Building Your Passion Project 18:00 – The Danger of Seeking Validation 20:30 – Creating Opportunities Through Connection 21:30 – Investing in Your Brand 24:00 – AI vs Authentic Relationships 27:00 – The Power of Being Seen 30:00 – Final Thoughts on Connection and Engagement Where to Find Brian: Website: www.subtleskills.com IG: https://www.instagram.com/briangalke Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briangalke/ Connect with your host, Erika: LinkedIn (primary) https://www.linkedin.com/in/erikarothenberger IG https://www.instagram.com/erikalearothenberger?igsh=MmhjeTRhbnB1aXM2 FB https://www.facebook.com/share/69wqEYVzFKKnci9u/?mibextid=LQQJ4d Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

July 14, 202630 min

Finding Grace Through Burnout: Strategies for Lasting Change with Jennifer Clearwaters

Summary In this episode of Grit, Grace and Glitz, host Erika Rothenberger sits down with Jennifer Clearwaters, a licensed professional counselor, yoga instructor, Reiki master, certified integrative nutrition coach, and co-author of Elevation Principles, to discuss the importance of self-care, mindfulness, and creating a life aligned with your purpose. Jennifer shares her journey from spending over 20 years in public education to building her own private practice focused on health and wellness. She opens up about recognizing burnout, creating an intentional exit plan, and taking the courageous steps needed to pursue a more meaningful career path. Together, Erika and Jennifer explore why self-care is not selfish, how small daily habits can create lasting change, and why taking care of your mind, body, and relationships is essential for long-term happiness and longevity. They also discuss the growing impact of burnout, the importance of social connection in an increasingly digital world, and how stepping outside your comfort zone can lead to unexpected opportunities and personal transformation. In This Episode, You'll Learn: Why self-care is not selfish and why making yourself a priority benefits everyone around you. How small, consistent actions can become powerful habits and lifelong rituals. Why waiting for the “perfect time” to prioritize yourself often keeps you stuck. How Jennifer transitioned from a stable career in education into private practice through careful planning. The warning signs of burnout and how to address them before reaching a breaking point. The connection between nutrition, sleep, stress, and emotional well-being. Why high-functioning burnout can affect even successful professionals. How meaningful relationships and real-life connection impact happiness and longevity. Why social media interactions cannot replace genuine human connection. How stepping into uncomfortable rooms and new environments can create life-changing opportunities. The importance of approaching growth with a “beginner’s mind.” How finding your purpose can lead to a more fulfilling and abundant life. Episode Timeline: 01:37 The Importance of Self-Care 06:14 Mindfulness in a Busy Life 07:56 Navigating Career Transitions 10:39 Recognizing and Preventing Burnout 13:52 The Role of Nutrition and Sleep 15:29 The Power of Connection 18:52 Stepping Out of Comfort Zones 24:23 Conclusion and Upcoming Events Where to Find Jennifer Clearwaters: Website: https://www.mindsetnj.com/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/mindsetjen/ Connect with your host, Erika: LinkedIn (primary) https://www.linkedin.com/in/erikarothenberger IG https://www.instagram.com/erikalearothenberger?igsh=MmhjeTRhbnB1aXM2 FB https://www.facebook.com/share/69wqEYVzFKKnci9u/?mibextid=LQQJ4d Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

July 7, 202633 min

The Grace in Aligned Perception: The Key to Joy and Success with Angela Goodman

Summary In this episode of Grit, Grace and Glitz, host Erika Rothenberger sits down with entrepreneur, speaker, author, and leadership coach Angela Goodman to explore how life's greatest challenges can become the foundation for purpose. Angela shares the life-threatening health crisis that completely changed her perspective on success, explains her Aligned Perception Framework, and discusses why fulfillment comes from intentional choices—not external achievements. Together, they dive into overcoming burnout, redefining success, finding joy, navigating financial hardship, and embracing every season of life with grace. If you've ever felt stuck on the treadmill of achievement or wondered how to create a life that feels aligned instead of simply successful, this conversation will give you practical tools and powerful perspective shifts. In This Episode, You'll Learn How a near-death experience completely transformed Angela's outlook on life. What the Aligned Perception Framework is and why perception shapes your reality. Why slowing down can be the key to greater success. A simple exercise to identify what energizes—and drains—you. How to stop living according to other people's expectations. Why helping others is one of the fastest paths to fulfillment. The importance of choosing joy intentionally every day. How to navigate financial setbacks without losing hope. Why life's toughest moments often prepare you for your greatest purpose. The powerful mindset shift from "Life is happening to me" to "Life is happening for me." Episode Timeline: 02:21 Angela's Life-Changing Experience 06:35 The Importance of Presence and Perspective 10:40 Identifying Joy and Energy 13:35 Midlife Awakening and Authenticity 15:08 The Power of Choice and Community 17:37 Navigating Life's Challenges 22:30 Angela's Upcoming Projects and Future Plans Where to Find Angela Goodman: IG: https://www.instagram.com/msangelagoodman/ Connect with your host, Erika: LinkedIn (primary) https://www.linkedin.com/in/erikarothenberger IG https://www.instagram.com/erikalearothenberger?igsh=MmhjeTRhbnB1aXM2 FB https://www.facebook.com/share/69wqEYVzFKKnci9u/?mibextid=LQQJ4d Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

June 30, 202649 min

The Glitz In The Power of Connection, Courage & Audacious Expansion with Misha Homara

Summary In this episode of Grit, Grace and Glitz, Erika Rothenberger and Misha Homara discuss servant leadership, burnout, resilience, women's leadership, and creating a life by design instead of by default. Together they explore why so many women prioritize everyone else before themselves, how meaningful relationships become the foundation for lasting success, and why personal growth always begins with the courage to choose yourself. Erika also shares the powerful story behind Audacious Expansion and how surviving a violent assault became the catalyst for changing laws, building a movement, and helping women step into their own expansion. Whether you're an entrepreneur, executive, working professional, or simply feeling stuck, this conversation will inspire you to stop waiting for the "perfect time" and start building the life you truly want. In This Episode, You'll Learn: Why burnout isn't a badge of honor—and how to recharge before you reach empty. How women often lose themselves while building careers, businesses, and families. Why your biggest breakthrough starts by asking yourself what you truly want. The surprising connection between personal growth and meaningful relationships. How writing down one audacious goal dramatically increases your chance of achieving it. Why success comes from applying pressure in the right areas—not carrying more weight everywhere. Erika's inspiring story of surviving a violent attack and transforming tragedy into purpose. How community, retreats, masterminds, and live events accelerate personal transformation. Why sharing your accomplishments can inspire others instead of feeling like bragging. Practical ways to create a life by design instead of living by default. Episode Timeline 00:00 Welcome & why this collaborative episode is different 01:20 Building businesses while building yourself 03:00 The Misha Method and overcoming burnout 06:20 Why women must recharge before reaching empty 07:50 What transformation looks like inside women's retreats 10:35 Designing your life with intention instead of default 12:10 Erika's "Add Weight" philosophy and creating diamonds under pressure 15:20 Why growth requires hard work—not instant gratification 17:15 Letting go of guilt and learning to say no 19:35 The inspiration behind Audacious Expansion 20:45 Erika's life-changing assault and choosing purpose over victimhood 24:10 Turning pain into action through small daily steps 26:00 Why connection is the key to resilience 28:20 The importance of finding the right community 30:30 Why loneliness is becoming an epidemic 32:20 Building meaningful relationships in a digital world 34:10 Final advice: celebrate your wins and share your story 37:00 The power of resilience, expansion, and embracing discomfort 39:00 Psychological safety and surrounding yourself with the right people 41:55 Final challenge: write down one audacious goal today Where to Find Misha Homara: Website: https://www.themishamethod.com/ linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mishahomara/ Connect with your host, Erika: LinkedIn (primary) https://www.linkedin.com/in/erikarothenberger IG https://www.instagram.com/erikalearothenberger?igsh=MmhjeTRhbnB1aXM2 FB https://www.facebook.com/share/69wqEYVzFKKnci9u/?mibextid=LQQJ4d Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

June 23, 202633 min

The Grit To Overcome Fear and Create Your Legacy Today with Kristen Ripmaster

Summary In this episode of Grit, Grace and Glitz, Erika Rothenberger sits down with coach and former corporate executive Kristen Ripmaster to discuss what it means to live your legacy now instead of waiting for “someday.” Kristen shares her journey from a 20-year corporate career to entrepreneurship, revealing how she learned to trust her intuition, embrace uncertainty, and create a life aligned with her values. Together, Erika and Kristen explore personal growth, midlife awakenings, overcoming fear, defining success on your own terms, and the power of taking small, intentional steps toward the life you truly want. If you've ever felt like there's something more for you, but aren't sure where to start, this conversation will inspire you to stop waiting and start moving. Tune in for a powerful reminder that your next chapter doesn't begin someday. It begins today. In This Episode, You'll Learn • Why waiting for the “perfect time” often keeps you stuck • How to begin living your legacy before retirement or empty nesting • The importance of modeling courage and fulfillment for your children • Practical ways to carve out time for personal growth, even with a busy schedule • How small daily actions build confidence and momentum • Why discomfort is often the gateway to transformation • The difference between failure and feedback • How clarity helps you make aligned decisions and pursue meaningful goals • Strategies for overcoming fear, criticism, and self-doubt • Why success should be defined by your values, not society’s expectations Episode Timeline 01:16 – The Story Behind the “Silver Springs” Metaphor 02:46 – Why So Many Women Feel Called to Something More 04:00 – Modeling Courage and Fulfillment for Your Children 06:08 – How to Start Before You're Ready 07:30 – Escaping the Hamster Wheel of Life 09:09 – Midlife Crisis or Midlife Awakening? 10:19 – Finding Time for Personal Growth and Purpose 12:16 – Small Daily Actions That Create Big Change 13:16 – Overcoming Fear, Judgment, and Criticism 15:14 – Defining Success on Your Own Terms 16:30 – The Power of Clarity and Knowing Your Purpose 17:08 – Entrepreneurship, Community, and Avoiding Burnout 19:33 – Taking the Leap of Faith 20:29 – Growth Happens Outside Your Comfort Zone 22:22 – Why Fear Is Often a Sign You Should Move Forward 23:35 – Life in Asheville & Quick-Fire Questions 26:42 – Where to Connect with Kristen 27:12 – Final Thoughts on Grit, Grace, and Glitz Where to Find Kristen: Website: https://ripmastercoaching.com/ linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/ripmastercoaching/ Connect with your host, Erika: LinkedIn (primary) https://www.linkedin.com/in/erikarothenberger IG https://www.instagram.com/erikalearothenberger?igsh=MmhjeTRhbnB1aXM2 FB https://www.facebook.com/share/69wqEYVzFKKnci9u/?mibextid=LQQJ4d Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

June 16, 202629 min

The Grace To Recognize Why Connection Matters More Than Perfection in Parenting with Dr. Suzanne Simpson

In this episode of Grit, Grace, and Glitz, host Erika welcomes Dr. Suzanne Simpson, a Canadian educator, speaker, mental health researcher, and parenting expert with over 30 years of classroom experience. Together, they explore the critical role of connection in raising resilient, emotionally healthy children and why authentic relationships matter more than perfect parenting. Dr. Simpson shares insights from her research, experiences working with youth in crisis, and her own parenting journey. She explains how connection serves as an antidote to many of today's mental health challenges and offers practical strategies parents can use to strengthen trust and communication with their children. Connect with Dr. Suzanne: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drsuzannesimpson/ Connect with your host, Erika: LinkedIn (primary) https://www.linkedin.com/in/erikarothenberger IG https://www.instagram.com/erikalearothenberger?igsh=MmhjeTRhbnB1aXM2 FB https://www.facebook.com/share/69wqEYVzFKKnci9u/?mibextid=LQQJ4d Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

June 9, 202639 min

The Grit To Choose Your Adventure, Freedom, and Fulfillment with Robyn Robledo

Ep 208 6/09/26 Shownote Summary In this episode of Grit, Grace, and Glitz, host Erika Rothenberger welcomes Robyn Robledo to discuss her family's bold decision to step away from the traditional path and create a life centered around adventure, connection, and purpose. Robin shares how she transitioned from a busy, highly structured life of homeschooling, entrepreneurship, and constant achievement to embracing freedom, travel, and intentional living. Together, they explore the difference between being "busy" and living abundantly, the importance of slowing down, overcoming fear and perfectionism, setting healthy boundaries, and redefining success beyond money and material possessions. Connect with Robyn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robyn-robledo-367579120/ https://instagram.com/ robynrobledo/ https://www.instagram.com/ nomadswithapurpose/ https://robynrobledo.com https://nomadswithapurpose.com Connect with your host, Erika: LinkedIn (primary) https://www.linkedin.com/in/erikarothenberger IG https://www.instagram.com/erikalearothenberger?igsh=MmhjeTRhbnB1aXM2 FB https://www.facebook.com/share/69wqEYVzFKKnci9u/?mibextid=LQQJ4d Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices