Grit, Grace & Glitz with Erika Rothenberger

Erika Rothenberger
  • 5.0 (48)
  • Self-Improvement
  • Updated Weekly

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!

  1. 2d ago

    The Grace To Embrace Human Connection in the Age of AI with Zach Mercurio

    Shownote In this episode of Grit, Grace & Glitz, Erika Rothenberger sits down with researcher, leadership expert, and bestselling author Zach Mercurio to explore one of the deepest human needs: mattering. Zach explains why feeling seen, heard, valued, and needed is essential for our well-being, relationships, and leadership. Together, they unpack the difference between having a purpose and actually experiencing mattering, revealing why millions of people feel lonely despite being more digitally connected than ever. The conversation dives into the impact of authentic human interactions in an AI-driven world, practical ways to help others feel valued every day, and powerful real-life stories showing how a few intentional words can change someone's life forever. This episode is a reminder that the smallest acts of recognition can create lifelong ripple effects—and that true leadership begins by helping people know they matter. In This Episode, You'll Learn Why every human being has a fundamental need to matter. The powerful meaning behind the phrase "If it wasn't for you..." The difference between purpose and mattering—and why both are essential. Why loneliness isn't caused by a lack of people, but by a lack of feeling valued. How technology has increased connectivity while decreasing genuine connection. The three everyday practices that help people feel seen, heard, valued, and needed. Why authentic human interactions will become more valuable than AI skills. How leaders can create psychological safety by checking in on people, not just performance. Simple ways to make someone's day through intentional recognition and appreciation. Why handwritten notes and personal words can leave a lifelong impact. The importance of giving yourself grace through Zach's "Do-Over Journal" practice. How small moments of kindness create ripple effects far beyond what we can see. Episode Timeline 00:00 Introduction: Why Mattering Matters in a Digitized World 01:00 Zach Mercurio's Background and the Impact of His Book 02:12 The Fundamental Need to Matter from Birth 03:34 The Power of Saying 'If It Wasn't for You' 05:15 Difference Between Purpose and Mattering 07:16 The Connection Between Worth and Purpose 09:18 The Loneliness Epidemic and the Quality of Connections 11:37 Organizational Blind Spots in Psychological Safety 14:15 The Role of Human Skills in the Future of Work 16:00 Authentic Interactions vs. Artificial Intelligence 17:34 The Demand for Real, High-Quality Interactions 19:10 Simple Acts of Recognition and Their Impact 21:21 The Power of Small Moments to Change Lives 23:29 The Impact of Handwritten Notes and Personal Recognition 28:54 Time and Attention as the Currency of Care 30:05 Building Connection in a Disconnected World 31:22 Practicing Grace and Self-Compassion 34:50 Final Thoughts: How We Can Make a Difference ort Where to Find Zach: Website: https://www.zachmercurio.com/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/zachmercurio/ IN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zachmercurio/ FB: https://www.facebook.com/ZMercurio/ 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

  2. Sep 8

    The Grit To Build Resilience In The Face Of Diversity with Tina Guerrieri

    Show Note In this episode of Grit, Grace & Glitz, Erika Rothenberger sits down with Tina Guerrieri, a survivor, real estate professional, and founder of the nonprofit organization Miko's Place. Tina candidly shares her powerful journey of overcoming severe childhood physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, as well as navigating a violent marriage as a single mother. Together, they discuss the importance of owning your story, breaking down cultural barriers in domestic violence support, and creating accessible pathways for healing. Tina explains how she channeled her past pain into empowering other women through housing assistance, legal aid, non-traditional therapy, and community education. They also dive into practical self-care habits, the strength found in supporting rather than competing with other women, and details on upcoming community-building events like Miko's Place's annual gala In This Episode, You'll Learn How to Turn Trauma into Purpose: Ways to embrace your story as a tool to inspire, heal, and uplift others. Overcoming Cultural Barriers: Why language barriers and immigrant pride often prevent minority victims from seeking help, and how targeted outreach makes a difference. Reclaiming Independence: Tina’s path from financial struggle to building a successful real estate career and providing stability for her family. Everyday Self-Care Practices: Practical ways to build self-love and reset your mind—from five-minute breathing moments to nature, music, and simple joys. Beyond Talk Therapy: How non-traditional methods like somatic, equine, dance, and movement therapies help heal trauma. The Power of Community Over Competition: Why lifting other women up creates a far more rewarding path than competing with them. Episode Timeline 02:09 Tina's journey from trauma to success 04:01 The founding of Mikos Place and its mission 09:56 Addressing cultural barriers in domestic violence support 14:46 The importance of self-care and mental health 19:55 Upcoming events: Gala and Summit 27:00 The power of community and connection 30:08 Closing thoughts and encouragement to support Where to Find Tina: IN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tinaguerrieri/ FB: https://www.facebook.com/tinaguerrieri/ 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

  3. Sep 1

    The Grace To Redefine Success Without Losing Yourself with Angelica Ventrice

    Summary In this episode of Grit, Grace & Glitz, Erika Rothenberger sits down with leadership performance coach and TEDx speaker Angelica Ventrice to explore what she calls The Identity Trap, the invisible beliefs and labels we've carried since childhood that quietly shape our lives, careers, relationships, and success. Angelica shares her deeply personal journey from building a successful seven-figure health coaching business to realizing that success without alignment can leave you feeling disconnected from yourself. Together, Erika and Angelica discuss people-pleasing, perfectionism, grief, burnout, boundaries, nervous system regulation, and the courage it takes to reinvent yourself. If you've ever felt stuck being the version of yourself everyone expects, this conversation is your reminder that growth isn't about becoming someone new, it's about returning to who you've always been. In This Episode, You'll Learn What the Identity Trap is and how it begins in childhood. Why success can sometimes keep you stuck instead of fulfilled. The four stages of identity transformation: awareness, acceptance, embodiment, and mastery. How people-pleasing and perfectionism become hidden identities. Why reinvention is necessary for living in alignment. How grief transformed Angelica's leadership and coaching. The connection between your nervous system, burnout, and high achievement. Small daily habits that create lasting personal transformation. Why saying "No" is a complete sentence. How to recognize a full-body yes versus an out-of-alignment decision. Episode Timeline 02:14 Defining the identity trap and its origins 04:03 Angelica's personal story and breakthrough moments 06:12 The four phases of identity transformation 08:55 Practical habits for mental and physical well-being 12:01 The importance of vulnerability and authenticity 14:55 Handling setbacks and setbacks as growth opportunities 18:08 The power of self-awareness and body connection 20:50 Invitation to the upcoming summit and community engagement Where to Find Angelica: Website: https://www.angelicaventrice.com/ IN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelica-ventrice/ IG: https:https://www.instagram.com/theangelicaventrice/ 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

  4. Aug 25

    The Grace To Build Resilience And Confidence In Any Season Of Life with Stephanie Hammond

    Summary In this episode of Grit, Grace & Glitz, Erika Rothenberger sits down with Stephanie Hammond, Branch Vice President at Coldwell Banker Realty, martial artist, leadership coach, and podcast host, for a conversation about resilience, self-belief, boundaries, and building a life that's aligned with your purpose. Stephanie shares how martial arts shaped her mindset, the unforgettable lesson she learned from breaking four concrete pavers with her elbow, and why visualization is far more powerful than most people realize. Together, Erika and Stephanie dive into the importance of adult friendships, setting boundaries without guilt, protecting your energy, and creating a life driven by passion instead of pressure. This episode is a reminder that grit isn't about pushing through exhaustion, it's about having the courage to become the person you're meant to be while giving yourself grace along the way. In This Episode, You'll Learn: Why your mindset is your greatest source of strength. How visualization can help you achieve goals before they happen. The life-changing lesson Stephanie learned from martial arts. How to stop overcommitting and start protecting your time. The importance of saying "no" without guilt. A simple daily self-care practice that creates lasting resilience. Why sleep is one of the most powerful forms of self-care. How to discover a passion project that aligns with your purpose. The difference between building a side hustle and building a personal brand. Why authentic friendships and genuine connections matter more than ever. Episode Timeline 01:30 The power of authentic relationships and creating meaningful connections as adults. 04:00 Stephanie's journey through martial arts and how it shaped her leadership philosophy. 08:20 Breaking concrete blocks: a powerful story about visualization and mental strength. 12:00 Why resilience begins with controlling your mindset—not your circumstances. 13:20 Boundaries, saying no, and creating space for self-care. 16:20 Protecting your energy through intentional routines, sleep, and focus. 17:45 Passion projects vs. side hustles: finding work that aligns with your purpose. 20:30 Audacious alignment and stepping outside your comfort zone. 21:35 Stephanie's unforgettable life advice from her father: confidence over people's opinions. 23:10 Final reflections on living with grit, grace, and celebrating your wins. Where to Find Stephanie: Website: https://stephaniehammond.co/ IG:https://www.instagram.com/thelightersideofsteph 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

  5. Aug 18

    The Grit To Take Trauma To Triumph with Dana Roppo

    Shownote Erika Rothenberger sits down with Dana Roppo, a survivor, mother, nonprofit founder, and advocate for domestic violence awareness and mental health. Dana courageously shares the traumatic experience she endured at just 18 years old, when a former boyfriend attacked her and left her fighting for her life. After surviving the attack and facing the physical and emotional scars that followed, Dana made a powerful decision: her trauma would not have the final word. Twenty-five years later, Dana has transformed her experience into a mission to help others. Through her nonprofit work, she raises awareness about domestic violence, mental health, self-defense, trauma recovery, and the importance of having access to supportive communities and resources. Dana and Erika also explore what it means to move from victim, to survivor, to thriver and why healing isn't something that happens overnight. They discuss faith, therapy, exercise, community, self-awareness, authenticity, and the importance of taking life one day at a time. This episode is ultimately a reminder that even after the darkest chapters of our lives, we still have a choice about what we do with the life we've been given. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU’LL LEARN: How Dana survived a life-threatening act of violence at just 18 years old. Why trauma doesn't have to become the final chapter of your story. The importance of giving yourself grace while healing from trauma. How faith, family, friends, therapy, exercise, and community can support recovery. Why healing requires intentional work—one day and one step at a time. How Dana transformed her personal trauma into a mission to help others. Why domestic violence extends beyond physical violence and can include emotional abuse, disrespect, belittling, and unhealthy relationships. The importance of recognizing warning signs and becoming more aware of your surroundings. How self-defense, breathwork, sound healing, yoga, and other wellness practices can become tools for healing and empowerment. Why speaking up and finding a trusted mentor or support system can make a difference. The power of surrounding yourself with people who are willing to help you grow. How to move from victim to survivor to thriver. Why leading by example can create a powerful impact on the people around you. The importance of investing in yourself and pursuing the passion that gives your life purpose. Episode Timeline 01:02 Dana shares her survival story of a violent attack 04:39 The details of the attack and immediate aftermath 07:11 The long-term impact of trauma and healing journey 08:12 Advice for those going through trauma or needing to bounce back 10:24 Dana's nonprofit work and upcoming awareness events 12:32 The importance of community, support, and giving back 14:53 Broader view on abuse, mental health, and living authentically 16:45 Spreading awareness and resources for trauma recovery 19:02 The power of passion, purpose, and community support 22:55 Final thoughts on resilience, grace, and living fully Where to Find Dana: Website: https://www.itendswithusmovement.com/ FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576336205960# IG: https://www.instagram.com/IamDanaRoppo/ 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

  6. Aug 11

    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

  7. Aug 4

    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

  8. Jul 28

    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

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About

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!

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