Grit, Grace & Glitz with Erika Rothenberger

Latest Episodes:

The Grace Behind the Power of Vulnerability with Tyler Dickerhoof Jul 28, 2026

Show notes

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

https://www.instagram.com/erikalearothenberger?igsh=MmhjeTRhbnB1aXM2

https://www.facebook.com/share/69wqEYVzFKKnci9u/?mibextid=LQQJ4d

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The Grit to Decode the Face: Unlocking the Power of Human Connection with Brian Galke Jul 21, 2026

Show notes

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

https://www.instagram.com/erikalearothenberger?igsh=MmhjeTRhbnB1aXM2

https://www.facebook.com/share/69wqEYVzFKKnci9u/?mibextid=LQQJ4d

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Finding Grace Through Burnout: Strategies for Lasting Change with Jennifer Clearwaters Jul 14, 2026

Show notes

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

https://www.instagram.com/erikalearothenberger?igsh=MmhjeTRhbnB1aXM2

https://www.facebook.com/share/69wqEYVzFKKnci9u/?mibextid=LQQJ4d

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The Grace in Aligned Perception: The Key to Joy and Success with Angela Goodman Jul 07, 2026

Show notes

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

https://www.instagram.com/erikalearothenberger?igsh=MmhjeTRhbnB1aXM2

https://www.facebook.com/share/69wqEYVzFKKnci9u/?mibextid=LQQJ4d

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The Glitz In The Power of Connection, Courage & Audacious Expansion with Misha Homara Jun 30, 2026

Show notes

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

https://www.instagram.com/erikalearothenberger?igsh=MmhjeTRhbnB1aXM2

https://www.facebook.com/share/69wqEYVzFKKnci9u/?mibextid=LQQJ4d

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The Grit To Overcome Fear and Create Your Legacy Today with Kristen Ripmaster Jun 23, 2026

Show notes

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

https://www.instagram.com/erikalearothenberger?igsh=MmhjeTRhbnB1aXM2

https://www.facebook.com/share/69wqEYVzFKKnci9u/?mibextid=LQQJ4d

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The Grace To Recognize Why Connection Matters More Than Perfection in Parenting with Dr. Suzanne Simpson Jun 16, 2026

Show notes

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

https://www.instagram.com/erikalearothenberger?igsh=MmhjeTRhbnB1aXM2

https://www.facebook.com/share/69wqEYVzFKKnci9u/?mibextid=LQQJ4d

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The Grit To Choose Your Adventure, Freedom, and Fulfillment with Robyn Robledo Jun 09, 2026

Show notes

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

https://www.instagram.com/erikalearothenberger?igsh=MmhjeTRhbnB1aXM2

https://www.facebook.com/share/69wqEYVzFKKnci9u/?mibextid=LQQJ4d

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The Grace in Leadership, Resilience, and Confidence with Christina Langdon Jun 02, 2026

Show notes

Summary

In this episode of Grit, Grace, and Glitz, host Erika Rothenberger welcomes Christina Langdon, who shares her journey through leadership, resilience, and redefining success. She discusses the importance of belief, confidence, and intentionality in achieving your goals, along with practical tools like the IDC framework and the Human AI Index assessment.

Connect with Christina

https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinalangdonkeynotespeaker/

Connect with your host, Erika:

LinkedIn (primary)

https://www.linkedin.com/in/erikarothenberger

https://www.instagram.com/erikalearothenberger?igsh=MmhjeTRhbnB1aXM2

https://www.facebook.com/share/69wqEYVzFKKnci9u/?mibextid=LQQJ4d

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The Grace In Embracing Discomfort for Growth with Judi Holler May 26, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of Grit, Grace, and Glitz, Judi Holler shares her journey of stepping out of her comfort zone, evolving her understanding of wellness, and embracing authenticity. She emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and clarity in personal growth, while also discussing the significance of courage and the acceptance of discomfort as a pathway to success. Judi's insights on the 'Year of the Horse' serve as a metaphor for maintaining focus and lightness in one's pursuits, encouraging listeners to trust their unique paths and embrace their true selves.

Connect with Judi

https://www.linkedin.com/in/judiholler/

Connect with your host, Erika:

LinkedIn (primary)

https://www.linkedin.com/in/erikarothenberger

https://www.instagram.com/erikalearothenberger?igsh=MmhjeTRhbnB1aXM2

https://www.facebook.com/share/69wqEYVzFKKnci9u/?mibextid=LQQJ4d

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices