Podcast appearances and mentions of erica rooney

What if the hardest sticky floor you'll ever face isn't in the boardroom — it's in the bleachers? What if the thing that finally brings you to your knees isn't a difficult executive, a glass ceiling, or a career pivot, but an eight-year-old with a cheer bag and a breaking heart?That's where Erica is this week. And she's not pretending otherwise.This is a raw, unscripted, still-unfolding solo episode. No tidy lessons. No fully processed takeaways. Just Erica — puffy eyes, pit in her stomach, phone full of texts — walking herself through her own SNAP method in real time as she navigates one of the hardest parts of being a high-achieving woman that nobody talks about enough: what happens when your child is hurting and you cannot fix it. This one is for every mom, auntie, and caregiver who has ever felt their child's pain land in their own chest.Inside the Episode:The 4AM Spiral: Why your child's disappointment doesn't stay in their lane — and how it activates your own unhealed wounds, old fears, and the nervous system you've been managing your whole careerAnxiety in a Designer Blazer: The moment Erica names the sticky floor hiding underneath "good mom advocacy" — and why sometimes what looks like protection is just fear trying to control the outcomeThe Mother Load: The layer of mental load nobody puts on the list — emotional forecasting, invisible decision trees, and the constant future-scanning that runs quietly in the background of everythingParenting the Child You Used to Be: Why our kids' pain brushes up against our own unhealed places — and how to stop making decisions for the child in front of you based on wounds from your pastSunk Cost Cheerleading: The real conversation about quitting, staying, and why walking away from something that no longer fits can actually be the brave thing — for her, and for youThe Pivot That's Still Forming: What happens when the SNAP method doesn't give you a clean answer — and why sometimes the most honest pivot is simply moving from control into trustResources & Links:The SNAP Method — Erica's four-step framework: Stop & notice, Name the sticky floor, Ask the deeper questions, Pivot into a grounded responseGlass Ceilings and Sticky Floors (the book) — Erica's foundational framework for the beliefs and behaviors keeping women stuckHer Collective — DM Erica directly for a personal guest invite to a live sessionYouTube Keywords: mom anxiety parenting, high achieving mom burnout, emotional mental load mothers, parenting and perfectionism, SNAP method Erica Rooney, sticky floors motherhood, when your child is hurting, glass ceilings sticky floors podcast, mom guilt leadership women, letting go control parenting BUY THE BOOK - Glass Ceilings and Sticky FloorsConnect with me on LinkedInBe a Book Launch Insider!!!My FREE 5x5 Starter Kit for LinkedInFREE WEEKLY SUCCESS PLANNERJoin our Facebook Group! Find me on InstagramCheck out our PINS on PinterestAnd YES - I'm on TikTok!

What if the hardest sticky floor you'll ever face isn't in the boardroom — it's in the bleachers? What if the thing that finally brings you to your knees isn't a difficult executive, a glass ceiling, or a career pivot, but an eight-year-old with a cheer bag and a breaking heart?That's where Erica is this week. And she's not pretending otherwise.This is a raw, unscripted, still-unfolding solo episode. No tidy lessons. No fully processed takeaways. Just Erica — puffy eyes, pit in her stomach, phone full of texts — walking herself through her own SNAP method in real time as she navigates one of the hardest parts of being a high-achieving woman that nobody talks about enough: what happens when your child is hurting and you cannot fix it. This one is for every mom, auntie, and caregiver who has ever felt their child's pain land in their own chest.Inside the Episode:The 4AM Spiral: Why your child's disappointment doesn't stay in their lane — and how it activates your own unhealed wounds, old fears, and the nervous system you've been managing your whole careerAnxiety in a Designer Blazer: The moment Erica names the sticky floor hiding underneath "good mom advocacy" — and why sometimes what looks like protection is just fear trying to control the outcomeThe Mother Load: The layer of mental load nobody puts on the list — emotional forecasting, invisible decision trees, and the constant future-scanning that runs quietly in the background of everythingParenting the Child You Used to Be: Why our kids' pain brushes up against our own unhealed places — and how to stop making decisions for the child in front of you based on wounds from your pastSunk Cost Cheerleading: The real conversation about quitting, staying, and why walking away from something that no longer fits can actually be the brave thing — for her, and for youThe Pivot That's Still Forming: What happens when the SNAP method doesn't give you a clean answer — and why sometimes the most honest pivot is simply moving from control into trustResources & Links:The SNAP Method — Erica's four-step framework: Stop & notice, Name the sticky floor, Ask the deeper questions, Pivot into a grounded responseGlass Ceilings and Sticky Floors (the book) — Erica's foundational framework for the beliefs and behaviors keeping women stuckHer Collective — DM Erica directly for a personal guest invite to a live sessionYouTube Keywords: mom anxiety parenting, high achieving mom burnout, emotional mental load mothers, parenting and perfectionism, SNAP method Erica Rooney, sticky floors motherhood, when your child is hurting, glass ceilings sticky floors podcast, mom guilt leadership women, letting go control parenting BUY THE BOOK - Glass Ceilings and Sticky FloorsConnect with me on LinkedInBe a Book Launch Insider!!!My FREE 5x5 Starter Kit for LinkedInFREE WEEKLY SUCCESS PLANNERJoin our Facebook Group! Find me on InstagramCheck out our PINS on PinterestAnd YES - I'm on TikTok!

What if the "niceness" you were taught as a child is the very thing holding you back from a billion-dollar seat at the table?In this episode of Glass Ceilings and Sticky Floors, Erica Rooney talks with Tracy Nolan, a Fortune 100 executive and Senior Vice President at Humana. Tracy's journey is a masterclass in breaking barriers—from being one of the few women at an elite engineering school to leading 12,000 people through the historic Sprint/T-Mobile merger. She reveals the subtle "sticky floors" that high-achieving women often miss, like the habit of "hosting" meetings instead of leading them.Join them as they discuss how to stop "man-spreading" your notebooks, the power of being the "only" in the room, and why being called "intimidating" is often just a code word for being effective.Inside the Episode:The Hostess Trap: Tracy shares a pivotal moment at Verizon where she was praised for "setting up the room" rather than her billion-dollar results, and how she learned to stop volunteering for the "office housework."Commanding the Space: Practical tips for shifting your physical presence—from how you carry your notebook to literally "spreading out" at the conference table to claim your right to be there.The "Caring" Competitive Advantage: How Tracy defied medical advice to "stop caring so much" and discovered that leading with heart and vulnerability actually accelerated her climb to the C-suite.The "Only" in the Room: Navigating the pressure to be the smartest person in the room of 21 men, and why over-preparing can actually make you appear less confident.Bitchy vs. Effective: A candid conversation on the double standards of female leadership and why it isn't your responsibility to regulate the insecurities of others who find you "intimidating."Vulnerability as a Tool: Why showing your team your human side—even taking a "mental health break"—creates a safe space for them to do their best work.The Motherly Mantra: A touching look at the universal advice both Tracy and Erica received from their mothers: "This too shall pass."

What if the "niceness" you were taught as a child is the very thing holding you back from a billion-dollar seat at the table?In this episode of Glass Ceilings and Sticky Floors, Erica Rooney talks with Tracy Nolan, a Fortune 100 executive and Senior Vice President at Humana. Tracy's journey is a masterclass in breaking barriers—from being one of the few women at an elite engineering school to leading 12,000 people through the historic Sprint/T-Mobile merger. She reveals the subtle "sticky floors" that high-achieving women often miss, like the habit of "hosting" meetings instead of leading them.Join them as they discuss how to stop "man-spreading" your notebooks, the power of being the "only" in the room, and why being called "intimidating" is often just a code word for being effective.Inside the Episode:The Hostess Trap: Tracy shares a pivotal moment at Verizon where she was praised for "setting up the room" rather than her billion-dollar results, and how she learned to stop volunteering for the "office housework."Commanding the Space: Practical tips for shifting your physical presence—from how you carry your notebook to literally "spreading out" at the conference table to claim your right to be there.The "Caring" Competitive Advantage: How Tracy defied medical advice to "stop caring so much" and discovered that leading with heart and vulnerability actually accelerated her climb to the C-suite.The "Only" in the Room: Navigating the pressure to be the smartest person in the room of 21 men, and why over-preparing can actually make you appear less confident.Bitchy vs. Effective: A candid conversation on the double standards of female leadership and why it isn't your responsibility to regulate the insecurities of others who find you "intimidating."Vulnerability as a Tool: Why showing your team your human side—even taking a "mental health break"—creates a safe space for them to do their best work.The Motherly Mantra: A touching look at the universal advice both Tracy and Erica received from their mothers: "This too shall pass."

What happens when the "pinnacle" of your career suddenly disappears?In this powerhouse episode of Glass Ceilings and Sticky Floors, Erica Rooney connects with Dr. Cynthia Bentzen-Mercer, a former Chief People Officer and author of the groundbreaking book Now Near Next. Cynthia reveals the "quiet but costly" mistake high-achieving women make: doing excellent work today without a clear plan for tomorrow.They discuss the "restlessness" that plagues mid-career women and how Cynthia's own "encore career" was fast-tracked when her C-suite position was eliminated—proving that even at the top, the floor can shift.Inside the Episode:The Restless Reality: Why mid-career women (from ages 28 to 60) often feel bored or stagnant despite their success, and why this is actually a call for self-actualization.The Serendipity Trap: Research shows women often attribute their success to "right place, right time" rather than intentional planning. Cynthia explains why we need to "steal a page from the men's playbook" and advocate for our own human capital.The "Now Near Next" Framework: * Now: Energizing your self-agency today.Near: The "two-thirds" phase where you chip away at goals in the margins of a busy life.Next: The "one-third" accelerator phase where you hit the gas on your aspirational goals.The Seven-Minute Pivot: How spending just 7 minutes a day—a total of 2,555 minutes a year—on your future can build unstoppable momentum.The 4 P's Loop: Cynthia's "cousin" to Erica's SNAP method for fighting internal barriers:Pause: Interrupt the negative spiral.Protest: Challenge the validity of your self-doubt.Pivot: Turn toward a positive, productive thought.Pray: Enlist your higher power for strength.Playing the Game vs. Being Played: A candid look at corporate politics and the necessity of being visible and vocal about your aspirations so people can "say your name in rooms you aren't in."Key Takeaways:Mid-Career is a Mindset: It's not about age; it's about the decades spent on the "hamster wheel" where life is busy and your own growth often takes a backseat.The "Roses" Danger: If your job is going perfectly, that is the exact time you need to be planning your next move. Disrupters are everywhere.Letting Go of the Anger: Cynthia shares a raw reflection on her exit from corporate life, advising her past self to let go of the "how" it happened to preserve energy for the "what's next."

What happens when the "pinnacle" of your career suddenly disappears?In this powerhouse episode of Glass Ceilings and Sticky Floors, Erica Rooney connects with Dr. Cynthia Bentzen-Mercer, a former Chief People Officer and author of the groundbreaking book Now Near Next. Cynthia reveals the "quiet but costly" mistake high-achieving women make: doing excellent work today without a clear plan for tomorrow.They discuss the "restlessness" that plagues mid-career women and how Cynthia's own "encore career" was fast-tracked when her C-suite position was eliminated—proving that even at the top, the floor can shift.Inside the Episode:The Restless Reality: Why mid-career women (from ages 28 to 60) often feel bored or stagnant despite their success, and why this is actually a call for self-actualization.The Serendipity Trap: Research shows women often attribute their success to "right place, right time" rather than intentional planning. Cynthia explains why we need to "steal a page from the men's playbook" and advocate for our own human capital.The "Now Near Next" Framework: * Now: Energizing your self-agency today.Near: The "two-thirds" phase where you chip away at goals in the margins of a busy life.Next: The "one-third" accelerator phase where you hit the gas on your aspirational goals.The Seven-Minute Pivot: How spending just 7 minutes a day—a total of 2,555 minutes a year—on your future can build unstoppable momentum.The 4 P's Loop: Cynthia's "cousin" to Erica's SNAP method for fighting internal barriers:Pause: Interrupt the negative spiral.Protest: Challenge the validity of your self-doubt.Pivot: Turn toward a positive, productive thought.Pray: Enlist your higher power for strength.Playing the Game vs. Being Played: A candid look at corporate politics and the necessity of being visible and vocal about your aspirations so people can "say your name in rooms you aren't in."Key Takeaways:Mid-Career is a Mindset: It's not about age; it's about the decades spent on the "hamster wheel" where life is busy and your own growth often takes a backseat.The "Roses" Danger: If your job is going perfectly, that is the exact time you need to be planning your next move. Disrupters are everywhere.Letting Go of the Anger: Cynthia shares a raw reflection on her exit from corporate life, advising her past self to let go of the "how" it happened to preserve energy for the "what's next."

What if the glass ceiling you just broke through leads to a room where you aren't even allowed to speak?In this episode of Glass Ceilings and Sticky Floors, Erica Rooney sits down with Elizabeth Webb, author of Made for Magic. Elizabeth shares her raw experience as the first female employee at an all-male company, where she realized that "staying on principle" was actually costing her soul. They dive into the "Pragmatic Goddess" approach to leaving toxic workplaces and how to reclaim a life of soul-satisfying joy.Join them as they discuss the epidemic of exhaustion, why "fun" is a radical act for high-achieving women, and how to stop "blabbing" (numbing out) and start actually resting.Inside the Episode:The Toxic Breakout: Elizabeth's story of being the "only" woman in the room and the moment she realized her presence was being used as a shield for a culture that refused to change.The Pragmatic Goddess Strategy: A survival guide for the "onlys" who can't leave their jobs yet. Learn why you must put an end date in your calendar to calm your subconscious and stop the feeling that "this is forever."Toxic Toleration: How to recognize when your "righteousness" in staying at a hard job is actually just a mask for martyring your health and energy.Rest vs. Blabbing: Why binging two seasons of a show or doom-scrolling isn't rest—it's numbing—and how to identify activities that actually make you feel alive.Scheduling Joy as Sacred: Why your salsa class or art session should be held with the same "sacredness" as a high-stakes board meeting.The "Fun" Resolution: Following the leadership of a 7-year-old to rediscover the luxury of doing things just because you enjoy them, without turning them into a "productive" side hustle.Reclaiming Hope: How to restart your dreaming process even when you're too exhausted to remember what makes you happy.If you've been "rattling the cage" of a career that doesn't feed your soul, this episode is your permission slip to stop surviving and start creating a life that feels like magic.

What if the glass ceiling you just broke through leads to a room where you aren't even allowed to speak?In this episode of Glass Ceilings and Sticky Floors, Erica Rooney sits down with Elizabeth Webb, author of Made for Magic. Elizabeth shares her raw experience as the first female employee at an all-male company, where she realized that "staying on principle" was actually costing her soul. They dive into the "Pragmatic Goddess" approach to leaving toxic workplaces and how to reclaim a life of soul-satisfying joy.Join them as they discuss the epidemic of exhaustion, why "fun" is a radical act for high-achieving women, and how to stop "blabbing" (numbing out) and start actually resting.Inside the Episode:The Toxic Breakout: Elizabeth's story of being the "only" woman in the room and the moment she realized her presence was being used as a shield for a culture that refused to change.The Pragmatic Goddess Strategy: A survival guide for the "onlys" who can't leave their jobs yet. Learn why you must put an end date in your calendar to calm your subconscious and stop the feeling that "this is forever."Toxic Toleration: How to recognize when your "righteousness" in staying at a hard job is actually just a mask for martyring your health and energy.Rest vs. Blabbing: Why binging two seasons of a show or doom-scrolling isn't rest—it's numbing—and how to identify activities that actually make you feel alive.Scheduling Joy as Sacred: Why your salsa class or art session should be held with the same "sacredness" as a high-stakes board meeting.The "Fun" Resolution: Following the leadership of a 7-year-old to rediscover the luxury of doing things just because you enjoy them, without turning them into a "productive" side hustle.Reclaiming Hope: How to restart your dreaming process even when you're too exhausted to remember what makes you happy.If you've been "rattling the cage" of a career that doesn't feed your soul, this episode is your permission slip to stop surviving and start creating a life that feels like magic.

What if the very traits you've been told make you "too emotional" for the C-suite are actually the high-level brain functions required for elite leadership?In this episode of Glass Ceilings and Sticky Floors, Erica Rooney sits down with Melody Wilding, executive coach and author of Trust Yourself and Managing Up. Melody introduces the concept of the "Sensitive Striver"—high achievers who possess a more finely tuned nervous system. She argues that empathy and deep processing aren't weaknesses to be "toughed out," but biological advantages that, when managed with the right systems, lead to unparalleled strategic success.Join them as they discuss how to break the cycle of overthinking, the science of the "empathy neuron," and how to stop being the "single point of failure" by teaching people exactly how to treat you.Inside the Episode:The Biology of Sensitivity: Melody explains the MRI research behind high sensitivity, revealing increased activity in brain regions related to decision-making and the "mirror neurons" that allow us to process emotions more deeply.Deep Thinking vs. Overthinking: Learn the vital distinction between productive problem-solving and the "paralysis by analysis" that stems from trying to optimize for too many masters at once.The "Frustrated Crier" Reframe: A tactical guide for women who tear up at work. Learn how to shift from a reaction of shame and apology to a position of strength by crediting your emotions to high standards and dedication.The "Honor Roll Hangover": Why the "good girl" mentality—saying yes to everything and working harder to be noticed—actually makes you unpromotable in the eyes of senior leadership.Managing Up Strategically: Why influencing your boss isn't about "making them happy," but about reclaiming your own agency and autonomy so you can lead your career from the driver's seat.The High-Low-Hero Ritual: A simple end-of-day shutdown process to close the "mental tabs" in your brain and prevent work stress from leaking into your home life.Setting the Precedent: Melody's "best advice" on why you must stop being the first to volunteer and instead start teaching people how to treat you by valuing your own time first.

What if the very traits you've been told make you "too emotional" for the C-suite are actually the high-level brain functions required for elite leadership?In this episode of Glass Ceilings and Sticky Floors, Erica Rooney sits down with Melody Wilding, executive coach and author of Trust Yourself and Managing Up. Melody introduces the concept of the "Sensitive Striver"—high achievers who possess a more finely tuned nervous system. She argues that empathy and deep processing aren't weaknesses to be "toughed out," but biological advantages that, when managed with the right systems, lead to unparalleled strategic success.Join them as they discuss how to break the cycle of overthinking, the science of the "empathy neuron," and how to stop being the "single point of failure" by teaching people exactly how to treat you.Inside the Episode:The Biology of Sensitivity: Melody explains the MRI research behind high sensitivity, revealing increased activity in brain regions related to decision-making and the "mirror neurons" that allow us to process emotions more deeply.Deep Thinking vs. Overthinking: Learn the vital distinction between productive problem-solving and the "paralysis by analysis" that stems from trying to optimize for too many masters at once.The "Frustrated Crier" Reframe: A tactical guide for women who tear up at work. Learn how to shift from a reaction of shame and apology to a position of strength by crediting your emotions to high standards and dedication.The "Honor Roll Hangover": Why the "good girl" mentality—saying yes to everything and working harder to be noticed—actually makes you unpromotable in the eyes of senior leadership.Managing Up Strategically: Why influencing your boss isn't about "making them happy," but about reclaiming your own agency and autonomy so you can lead your career from the driver's seat.The High-Low-Hero Ritual: A simple end-of-day shutdown process to close the "mental tabs" in your brain and prevent work stress from leaking into your home life.Setting the Precedent: Melody's "best advice" on why you must stop being the first to volunteer and instead start teaching people how to treat you by valuing your own time first.

What if being "canceled" in the office isn't a career death sentence, but a credential that proves you're finally playing at a higher level?In this solo episode, host Erica Rooney takes a deep dive into the cultural phenomenon of "girlbossing too close to the sun." Using Taylor Swift's track Cassandra (and the viral discourse around it) as a backdrop, Erica breaks down the systemic way corporate America punishes assertive women. From the "Horn Effect" to microaggressions, this episode is a guide to navigating reputational bias and reclaiming your power when the system tries to dim your light.Erica shares her own story of how "visibility turned into vulnerability" and explains why your corporate scars are actually the connective tissue that will lead to your biggest breakthrough yet.Inside the Episode:Girlbossing Too Close to the Sun: Why a woman's climb up the ladder often triggers office politics, shifting the narrative from "effective" to "intimidating" the moment she gains real influence.The 30% Abrasiveness Gap: A look at the Harvard Business Review data showing that assertive women are 30% more likely than men to be labeled as "abrasive" in performance reviews.Reputational Bias 101: Breaking down the Halo vs. Horn Effect—how a single negative perception can overshadow your results and lock you into a past narrative.The Slow Erosion: Why "cancel culture" at work isn't a loud public outcry, but a quiet exclusion from meetings and a 60% microaggression rate that calls women's competence into question.Connection as Currency: Understanding why women's job satisfaction drops 20% when they perceive disapproval from peers, and how to break the "sticky floor" of needing to be liked.Matching Scars: Exploring the concept of "common humanity"—the idea that your corporate struggles aren't proof of failure, but a shared experience that builds resilience and community.The Brave Bite Exercise: A challenge to look at your most "canceled" moment and identify the specific lesson that made you stronger.If you've ever been told you're "too much" or been sidelined for the same behavior that gets men promoted, this episode is your battle cry to stop conforming and start leading louder.

What if being "canceled" in the office isn't a career death sentence, but a credential that proves you're finally playing at a higher level?In this solo episode, host Erica Rooney takes a deep dive into the cultural phenomenon of "girlbossing too close to the sun." Using Taylor Swift's track Cassandra (and the viral discourse around it) as a backdrop, Erica breaks down the systemic way corporate America punishes assertive women. From the "Horn Effect" to microaggressions, this episode is a guide to navigating reputational bias and reclaiming your power when the system tries to dim your light.Erica shares her own story of how "visibility turned into vulnerability" and explains why your corporate scars are actually the connective tissue that will lead to your biggest breakthrough yet.Inside the Episode:Girlbossing Too Close to the Sun: Why a woman's climb up the ladder often triggers office politics, shifting the narrative from "effective" to "intimidating" the moment she gains real influence.The 30% Abrasiveness Gap: A look at the Harvard Business Review data showing that assertive women are 30% more likely than men to be labeled as "abrasive" in performance reviews.Reputational Bias 101: Breaking down the Halo vs. Horn Effect—how a single negative perception can overshadow your results and lock you into a past narrative.The Slow Erosion: Why "cancel culture" at work isn't a loud public outcry, but a quiet exclusion from meetings and a 60% microaggression rate that calls women's competence into question.Connection as Currency: Understanding why women's job satisfaction drops 20% when they perceive disapproval from peers, and how to break the "sticky floor" of needing to be liked.Matching Scars: Exploring the concept of "common humanity"—the idea that your corporate struggles aren't proof of failure, but a shared experience that builds resilience and community.The Brave Bite Exercise: A challenge to look at your most "canceled" moment and identify the specific lesson that made you stronger.If you've ever been told you're "too much" or been sidelined for the same behavior that gets men promoted, this episode is your battle cry to stop conforming and start leading louder.

What if the only thing standing between you and your biggest dream was a decades-old "software update" for your brain? Imagine moving across the world or pivoting your career not because you aren't afraid, but because you finally know how to handle the voice telling you to stay small.In this episode, executive coach and Opposite of Small Talk co-host Danielle McCombs joins Erica Rooney to discuss her upcoming move to London and the science of overcoming mental roadblocks. You'll learn how to identify your "Saboteurs" through the Positive Intelligence framework and gain practical tools to stay present, even when life feels like a "colossal" undertaking.Inside the EpisodeThe Power of the "Evidence Log": How Danielle's move from New York to San Francisco 10 years ago provided the "proof of concept" for her leap to London.Updating Your Internal Software: Why our coping mechanisms from childhood (Saboteurs) often become the "sticky floors" of our adult professional lives.The Positive Intelligence (PQ) Framework: An introduction to the work of Shirzad Chamine and how to identify the "Judge" living inside your head.Common Saboteurs for Ambitious Women: A deep dive into the Hyper-Achiever, the Stickler (Perfectionist), and the Avoider.The "Dirt Road" vs. The "Autobahn": Why choosing a new mental pathway feels difficult at first—and how neuroplasticity makes it easier over time.The Toothbrush Challenge: A simple, 2-minute daily habit to build your mindfulness muscle and increase your PQ.The "Mile High" Wedding: A wild, true story of what happens when you take your headphones out and actually stay present in the world.ResourcesTake the Free Assessment: PositiveIntelligence.comConnect with Danielle: DanielleMcCombs.comListen to Danielle's Podcast: The Opposite of Small Talk BUY THE BOOK - Glass Ceilings and Sticky Floors Connect with me on LinkedInBe a Book Launch Insider!!!My FREE 5x5 Starter Kit for LinkedInFREE WEEKLY SUCCESS PLANNERJoin our Facebook Group! Find me on InstagramCheck out our PINS on PinterestAnd YES - I'm on TikTok!

What if the only thing standing between you and your biggest dream was a decades-old "software update" for your brain? Imagine moving across the world or pivoting your career not because you aren't afraid, but because you finally know how to handle the voice telling you to stay small.In this episode, executive coach and Opposite of Small Talk co-host Danielle McCombs joins Erica Rooney to discuss her upcoming move to London and the science of overcoming mental roadblocks. You'll learn how to identify your "Saboteurs" through the Positive Intelligence framework and gain practical tools to stay present, even when life feels like a "colossal" undertaking.Inside the EpisodeThe Power of the "Evidence Log": How Danielle's move from New York to San Francisco 10 years ago provided the "proof of concept" for her leap to London.Updating Your Internal Software: Why our coping mechanisms from childhood (Saboteurs) often become the "sticky floors" of our adult professional lives.The Positive Intelligence (PQ) Framework: An introduction to the work of Shirzad Chamine and how to identify the "Judge" living inside your head.Common Saboteurs for Ambitious Women: A deep dive into the Hyper-Achiever, the Stickler (Perfectionist), and the Avoider.The "Dirt Road" vs. The "Autobahn": Why choosing a new mental pathway feels difficult at first—and how neuroplasticity makes it easier over time.The Toothbrush Challenge: A simple, 2-minute daily habit to build your mindfulness muscle and increase your PQ.The "Mile High" Wedding: A wild, true story of what happens when you take your headphones out and actually stay present in the world.ResourcesTake the Free Assessment: PositiveIntelligence.comConnect with Danielle: DanielleMcCombs.comListen to Danielle's Podcast: The Opposite of Small Talk BUY THE BOOK - Glass Ceilings and Sticky Floors Connect with me on LinkedInBe a Book Launch Insider!!!My FREE 5x5 Starter Kit for LinkedInFREE WEEKLY SUCCESS PLANNERJoin our Facebook Group! Find me on InstagramCheck out our PINS on PinterestAnd YES - I'm on TikTok!

What if the only thing standing between your current role and the C-suite isn't your resume, but your own internal "Good Girl" script? Imagine walking into a high-stakes meeting not hoping to be liked, but fully grounded in the power of your own perspective.SummaryIn this episode, acclaimed executive coach Sara Anderson joins Erica Rooney to bridge the gap between competence and confidence for high-performing women. They dive deep into dismantling the "Good Girl" conditioning and mastering the inner game required to transition into top-tier leadership roles.Inside the EpisodeThe Competence-Confidence Trap: Why hitting your goals often makes you feel like more of a "fake" rather than more secure.The "Want What You Want" Framework: How to reconnect with your own desires to break the cycle of people-pleasing and over-functioning.Dismantling the Good Girl Script: Why the behaviors that made you a great operator are exactly what's holding you back from becoming a great executive.Option C Thinking: Moving beyond binary choices to find creative solutions for work-life integration.Exposure vs. Exposed: Navigating the biological fear of "getting kicked out of the tribe" when you start taking up space.The Nightmare Scenario Drill: A practical tool to deconstruct the fears that stop you from building your personal brand on platforms like LinkedIn.The Leadership Training Ground: How to view a toxic or "stuck" environment as a masterclass in boundary setting before you make your next move.ResourcesGuest: Sara Anderson, Executive Coach & Leadership ConsultantHost: Erica Rooney, HR Executive & Keynote SpeakerMentioned: The Her Collective Group Coaching BUY THE BOOK - Glass Ceilings and Sticky Floors Connect with me on LinkedInBe a Book Launch Insider!!!My FREE 5x5 Starter Kit for LinkedInFREE WEEKLY SUCCESS PLANNERJoin our Facebook Group! Find me on InstagramCheck out our PINS on PinterestAnd YES - I'm on TikTok!

What if the only thing standing between your current role and the C-suite isn't your resume, but your own internal "Good Girl" script? Imagine walking into a high-stakes meeting not hoping to be liked, but fully grounded in the power of your own perspective.SummaryIn this episode, acclaimed executive coach Sara Anderson joins Erica Rooney to bridge the gap between competence and confidence for high-performing women. They dive deep into dismantling the "Good Girl" conditioning and mastering the inner game required to transition into top-tier leadership roles.Inside the EpisodeThe Competence-Confidence Trap: Why hitting your goals often makes you feel like more of a "fake" rather than more secure.The "Want What You Want" Framework: How to reconnect with your own desires to break the cycle of people-pleasing and over-functioning.Dismantling the Good Girl Script: Why the behaviors that made you a great operator are exactly what's holding you back from becoming a great executive.Option C Thinking: Moving beyond binary choices to find creative solutions for work-life integration.Exposure vs. Exposed: Navigating the biological fear of "getting kicked out of the tribe" when you start taking up space.The Nightmare Scenario Drill: A practical tool to deconstruct the fears that stop you from building your personal brand on platforms like LinkedIn.The Leadership Training Ground: How to view a toxic or "stuck" environment as a masterclass in boundary setting before you make your next move.ResourcesGuest: Sara Anderson, Executive Coach & Leadership ConsultantHost: Erica Rooney, HR Executive & Keynote SpeakerMentioned: The Her Collective Group Coaching BUY THE BOOK - Glass Ceilings and Sticky Floors Connect with me on LinkedInBe a Book Launch Insider!!!My FREE 5x5 Starter Kit for LinkedInFREE WEEKLY SUCCESS PLANNERJoin our Facebook Group! Find me on InstagramCheck out our PINS on PinterestAnd YES - I'm on TikTok!

What if you could stop shape-shifting just to fit into a boardroom? Imagine leading with your full cultural identity, history, and brilliance without the crushing weight of burnout or the "invisible wound" of fragmentation. Dr. Christine Coleman joins Erica Rooney to bridge clinical psychology with strategic equity, offering a roadmap for diverse leaders to integrate their whole selves. This episode explores the "Socio-Relational Healing Theory" and provides actionable strategies for moving from survival mode to authentic thriving.Inside the Episode:The Inverted Triangle: A breakdown of Dr. Coleman's Socio-Relational Healing Theory, which places the relationship with "Self" as the essential foundation for navigating systemic and workplace pressures.The Fragmentation Paradox: Exploring how "code-switching" and minimizing cultural identity functions as a "sticky floor" that leads to burnout and psychological exhaustion for diverse leaders.The "I Will/I Will Not" Framework: A practical boundary-setting exercise designed to help women move from "survival mode" to reclaimed agency by identifying exactly what they are willing to give—and what they are not.ResourcesDr Christine Coleman: https://www.drchristinecoleman.com BUY THE BOOK - Glass Ceilings and Sticky Floors Connect with me on LinkedInBe a Book Launch Insider!!!My FREE 5x5 Starter Kit for LinkedInFREE WEEKLY SUCCESS PLANNERJoin our Facebook Group! Find me on InstagramCheck out our PINS on PinterestAnd YES - I'm on TikTok!

What if you could stop shape-shifting just to fit into a boardroom? Imagine leading with your full cultural identity, history, and brilliance without the crushing weight of burnout or the "invisible wound" of fragmentation. Dr. Christine Coleman joins Erica Rooney to bridge clinical psychology with strategic equity, offering a roadmap for diverse leaders to integrate their whole selves. This episode explores the "Socio-Relational Healing Theory" and provides actionable strategies for moving from survival mode to authentic thriving.Inside the Episode:The Inverted Triangle: A breakdown of Dr. Coleman's Socio-Relational Healing Theory, which places the relationship with "Self" as the essential foundation for navigating systemic and workplace pressures.The Fragmentation Paradox: Exploring how "code-switching" and minimizing cultural identity functions as a "sticky floor" that leads to burnout and psychological exhaustion for diverse leaders.The "I Will/I Will Not" Framework: A practical boundary-setting exercise designed to help women move from "survival mode" to reclaimed agency by identifying exactly what they are willing to give—and what they are not.ResourcesDr Christine Coleman: https://www.drchristinecoleman.com BUY THE BOOK - Glass Ceilings and Sticky Floors Connect with me on LinkedInBe a Book Launch Insider!!!My FREE 5x5 Starter Kit for LinkedInFREE WEEKLY SUCCESS PLANNERJoin our Facebook Group! Find me on InstagramCheck out our PINS on PinterestAnd YES - I'm on TikTok!

What if you were as reliable to yourself as you are to your boss, your kids, or your community? Imagine a world where the promises you make in private—to rest, to move, or to create—carried the same weight as a deadline on your calendar. In this episode, Erica Rooney explores "self-ghosting," where ambitious women break promises to themselves while showing up flawlessly for everyone else, and shares how to move from "good vibes" to "clean agreements" to rebuild self-trust and stop the cycle of burnout. Inside the EpisodeThe Fictional Woman Fallacy: Why we fail by making plans for a version of ourselves that has zero kids, infinite sleep, and no job. Defining Clean Agreements: The four-part framework—When, Where, How Long, and Done—that turns a vague goal into a kept promise. The $20 Rule: Why doing the "minimum" is more valuable than doing nothing when you can't give 100%. The "Fix It Fast" Protocol: How to stop the "shame monologue" and recover immediately after a missed commitment without "starting over." BUY THE BOOK - Glass Ceilings and Sticky Floors Connect with me on LinkedInBe a Book Launch Insider!!!My FREE 5x5 Starter Kit for LinkedInFREE WEEKLY SUCCESS PLANNERJoin our Facebook Group! Find me on InstagramCheck out our PINS on PinterestAnd YES - I'm on TikTok!

What if you were as reliable to yourself as you are to your boss, your kids, or your community? Imagine a world where the promises you make in private—to rest, to move, or to create—carried the same weight as a deadline on your calendar. In this episode, Erica Rooney explores "self-ghosting," where ambitious women break promises to themselves while showing up flawlessly for everyone else, and shares how to move from "good vibes" to "clean agreements" to rebuild self-trust and stop the cycle of burnout. Inside the EpisodeThe Fictional Woman Fallacy: Why we fail by making plans for a version of ourselves that has zero kids, infinite sleep, and no job. Defining Clean Agreements: The four-part framework—When, Where, How Long, and Done—that turns a vague goal into a kept promise. The $20 Rule: Why doing the "minimum" is more valuable than doing nothing when you can't give 100%. The "Fix It Fast" Protocol: How to stop the "shame monologue" and recover immediately after a missed commitment without "starting over." BUY THE BOOK - Glass Ceilings and Sticky Floors Connect with me on LinkedInBe a Book Launch Insider!!!My FREE 5x5 Starter Kit for LinkedInFREE WEEKLY SUCCESS PLANNERJoin our Facebook Group! Find me on InstagramCheck out our PINS on PinterestAnd YES - I'm on TikTok!

What if your introversion wasn't a barrier to your leadership, but your greatest competitive advantage? Imagine commanding a room not by being the loudest voice, but by being the most intentional and prepared one. In this episode, Goldie Chan, a global personal branding guru and top LinkedIn voice, joins Erica Rooney to dismantle the myth that you have to be an extrovert to succeed in corporate America. They explore the "playbook for introverts," offering tactical advice on building visibility and influence while protecting your mental battery and staying true to your authentic self.Inside the EpisodeThe Introvert Hangover: Understanding the limited social energy battery and why recovery periods are essential for avoiding burnout.The 10-Minute Dopamine Detox: A "bell pepper hot take" on surviving conferences by taking short, screen-free breaks to reset the brain.The Content Bank Method: Strategies for high-impact branding using just two hours a month to create evergreen assets.Community Over Networking: Shifting from "small talk" to meaningful interest-based groups like WhatsApp or Facebook communities.The Reply Bank System: Using pre-formatted responses to manage common inquiries without depleting your mental energy.

What if your introversion wasn't a barrier to your leadership, but your greatest competitive advantage? Imagine commanding a room not by being the loudest voice, but by being the most intentional and prepared one. In this episode, Goldie Chan, a global personal branding guru and top LinkedIn voice, joins Erica Rooney to dismantle the myth that you have to be an extrovert to succeed in corporate America. They explore the "playbook for introverts," offering tactical advice on building visibility and influence while protecting your mental battery and staying true to your authentic self.Inside the EpisodeThe Introvert Hangover: Understanding the limited social energy battery and why recovery periods are essential for avoiding burnout.The 10-Minute Dopamine Detox: A "bell pepper hot take" on surviving conferences by taking short, screen-free breaks to reset the brain.The Content Bank Method: Strategies for high-impact branding using just two hours a month to create evergreen assets.Community Over Networking: Shifting from "small talk" to meaningful interest-based groups like WhatsApp or Facebook communities.The Reply Bank System: Using pre-formatted responses to manage common inquiries without depleting your mental energy.

Most listeners are likely already familiar with the term "glass ceiling," but what about the term, "sticky floors" and the role these internal barriers can play in achieving success?  Today's guest, Erica Rooney, podcaster, keynote speaker, gender equality crusader, and author of the book "Glass Ceilings and Sticky Floors," explains the internal barriers to success, otherwise known as sticky floors, and explains her four step SNAP method and the practical ways it helps to overcome barriers including imposter syndrome, perfectionism, and worrying about what others think. Big Talk Question: What would you do tomorrow if you were no longer worried about being too much or not enough? **Get the new Big Talk Questions – Starter Pack** Guest's Website: Keynote Speaker - Author - Gender Equality Crusader Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session.  Work with Kristy: You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy's website at www.kristyolinger.com  and find her work journal at Work Journal — Kristy Olinger. Connect with us at theoppositeofsmalltalkpodcast@gmail.com  

Is your "biological clock" a source of anxiety or a tool for empowerment? In this episode, Erica Rooney sits down with Dr. Jaime Knopman, a leading reproductive endocrinologist, to dismantle the myths and shame surrounding women's health.Dr. Knopman challenges the "just relax" narrative, explains the cold hard facts about egg quality in your 30s, and shares why reproductive choice is the ultimate power move for the modern ambitious woman. If you've ever felt behind or overwhelmed by the "shoulds" of motherhood, this conversation will help you reclaim your timeline.Inside the Episode:The 32-Year-Old Reality Check: Why your period doesn't always equal fertility and the data every woman needs to know sooner rather than later.Reframing Infertility: Moving away from shame and understanding the medical truth that "willpower" can't fix.The "Reproductive Pivot": How egg freezing changes the way women date, work, and plan for their future selves.Corporate Advocacy: How to talk to HR about modernizing your benefits to include fertility support.Resilience in Health: Dealing with bad medical news and finding the strength to "get back up" when life knocks you down.

Is your "biological clock" a source of anxiety or a tool for empowerment? In this episode, Erica Rooney sits down with Dr. Jaime Knopman, a leading reproductive endocrinologist, to dismantle the myths and shame surrounding women's health.Dr. Knopman challenges the "just relax" narrative, explains the cold hard facts about egg quality in your 30s, and shares why reproductive choice is the ultimate power move for the modern ambitious woman. If you've ever felt behind or overwhelmed by the "shoulds" of motherhood, this conversation will help you reclaim your timeline.Inside the Episode:The 32-Year-Old Reality Check: Why your period doesn't always equal fertility and the data every woman needs to know sooner rather than later.Reframing Infertility: Moving away from shame and understanding the medical truth that "willpower" can't fix.The "Reproductive Pivot": How egg freezing changes the way women date, work, and plan for their future selves.Corporate Advocacy: How to talk to HR about modernizing your benefits to include fertility support.Resilience in Health: Dealing with bad medical news and finding the strength to "get back up" when life knocks you down.

What if the secret to overcoming imposter syndrome isn't getting rid of your fear, but learning to invert your perspective and use it as fuel?In this episode of Glass Ceilings and Sticky Floors, Erica Rooney sits down with Michelle "Mace" Curran, a former F-16 fighter pilot and lead solo pilot for the US Air Force Thunderbirds. As only one of two women in history to hold that title, Michelle has flown inverted inches from her wingman at 500 mph—all while battling the same inner critic that many high-achieving women face in the boardroom.Michelle shares how she moved from a shy, introverted high-achiever to a decorated combat veteran, revealing the mental discipline required to override survival instincts and the power of "call sign culture" in building psychological safety.Inside the Episode:Training Over Instinct: Michelle explains how the "insane" maneuvers of an air show are actually the result of thousands of hours of repetition, and how that same building of competence is the foundation for confidence in any male-dominated career.The Survival Brain in the Boardroom: How to distinguish between real physical danger and the primal fear of social judgment. Michelle shares her "zoom out" method to get worst-case scenarios out of your head and onto paper.The "Costume" of Confidence: Michelle opens up about her early career struggles in Japan, where she felt like she had to wear a "Type A costume" to belong, and the shock to her identity when she realized she couldn't be a "golden child" on day one.The Inner Voice vs. The Verdict: A breakdown of how to identify your inner critic—Michelle's looked like a "tactical older male pilot"—and why recognizing the source of that voice takes away its power.MACE: The Call Sign Story: The vulnerable story behind Michelle's call sign (Mock At Circle Entry) and how a near-catastrophic mistake involving 9 G-forces became her ultimate badge of honor.Call Sign Culture & Safety: Why having a nickname based on a mistake is actually a tool for psychological safety, encouraging a "debrief culture" where even the highest-ranking leaders openly admit their errors.Inverting Your Perspective: A look at Michelle's book, The Flip Side, and how to use the "action creates confidence" loop to navigate moments where "the shit hits the fan."If you're waiting to "feel ready" before chasing your biggest dreams, this episode is the reality check you need to start taking action in the presence of doubt.

What if the secret to overcoming imposter syndrome isn't getting rid of your fear, but learning to invert your perspective and use it as fuel?In this episode of Glass Ceilings and Sticky Floors, Erica Rooney sits down with Michelle "Mace" Curran, a former F-16 fighter pilot and lead solo pilot for the US Air Force Thunderbirds. As only one of two women in history to hold that title, Michelle has flown inverted inches from her wingman at 500 mph—all while battling the same inner critic that many high-achieving women face in the boardroom.Michelle shares how she moved from a shy, introverted high-achiever to a decorated combat veteran, revealing the mental discipline required to override survival instincts and the power of "call sign culture" in building psychological safety.Inside the Episode:Training Over Instinct: Michelle explains how the "insane" maneuvers of an air show are actually the result of thousands of hours of repetition, and how that same building of competence is the foundation for confidence in any male-dominated career.The Survival Brain in the Boardroom: How to distinguish between real physical danger and the primal fear of social judgment. Michelle shares her "zoom out" method to get worst-case scenarios out of your head and onto paper.The "Costume" of Confidence: Michelle opens up about her early career struggles in Japan, where she felt like she had to wear a "Type A costume" to belong, and the shock to her identity when she realized she couldn't be a "golden child" on day one.The Inner Voice vs. The Verdict: A breakdown of how to identify your inner critic—Michelle's looked like a "tactical older male pilot"—and why recognizing the source of that voice takes away its power.MACE: The Call Sign Story: The vulnerable story behind Michelle's call sign (Mock At Circle Entry) and how a near-catastrophic mistake involving 9 G-forces became her ultimate badge of honor.Call Sign Culture & Safety: Why having a nickname based on a mistake is actually a tool for psychological safety, encouraging a "debrief culture" where even the highest-ranking leaders openly admit their errors.Inverting Your Perspective: A look at Michelle's book, The Flip Side, and how to use the "action creates confidence" loop to navigate moments where "the shit hits the fan."If you're waiting to "feel ready" before chasing your biggest dreams, this episode is the reality check you need to start taking action in the presence of doubt.

What if the biggest barrier to your business growth isn't your vision, but your refusal to look at the numbers?In this episode of Glass Ceilings and Sticky Floors, Erica Rooney sits down with Danielle Hendon, founder of Four Corners CFO. After a decade in corporate finance, Danielle realized that many entrepreneurs are brilliant at their craft but paralyzed by their books. She's on a mission to turn founders into confident financial leaders by simplifying complex "money talk" into actionable strategy.Join them as they discuss why you can't lead where you don't look, how to stop letting your bank account define your self-worth, and the vital mindset shift needed to move from a "stagnant pond" to a "flowing river" of wealth.Inside the Episode:The Music to Math Pipeline: Danielle shares her unconventional journey from aspiring opera singer to CPA, explaining the scientific mesh between musical patterns and numerical data.The Judgment Trap: Why women often feel like their financial statements are a "grade" on their performance as a human, and how to start viewing numbers as neutral tools for decision-making.Forecasting as Leadership: Danielle breaks down why the goal of a budget isn't necessarily to hit it—it's a roadmap to help you understand the "why" behind your business's story.The "Stagnant Pond" vs. "Flowing River": A powerful visual analogy for shifting from a scarcity mindset to an abundance mindset, and why you must "spend money to make money."The Power of Profit: Why paying yourself first is not selfish, but a requirement for sustainable growth and the ability to eventually delegate tasks.Sticky Floors of Delegation: Danielle opens up about her own struggle with hiring and "letting go," revealing why the first revenue-generating hire is the hardest yet most necessary step to shatter your glass ceiling.Pricing for Value: A look at why hourly billing often penalizes expertise, and why shifting to flat-fee pricing allows you to profit from your own efficiency.If you've been putting your head in the sand when it comes to your business finances, this episode is the clarity and encouragement you need to step into the power of profit.

What if the biggest barrier to your business growth isn't your vision, but your refusal to look at the numbers?In this episode of Glass Ceilings and Sticky Floors, Erica Rooney sits down with Danielle Hendon, founder of Four Corners CFO. After a decade in corporate finance, Danielle realized that many entrepreneurs are brilliant at their craft but paralyzed by their books. She's on a mission to turn founders into confident financial leaders by simplifying complex "money talk" into actionable strategy.Join them as they discuss why you can't lead where you don't look, how to stop letting your bank account define your self-worth, and the vital mindset shift needed to move from a "stagnant pond" to a "flowing river" of wealth.Inside the Episode:The Music to Math Pipeline: Danielle shares her unconventional journey from aspiring opera singer to CPA, explaining the scientific mesh between musical patterns and numerical data.The Judgment Trap: Why women often feel like their financial statements are a "grade" on their performance as a human, and how to start viewing numbers as neutral tools for decision-making.Forecasting as Leadership: Danielle breaks down why the goal of a budget isn't necessarily to hit it—it's a roadmap to help you understand the "why" behind your business's story.The "Stagnant Pond" vs. "Flowing River": A powerful visual analogy for shifting from a scarcity mindset to an abundance mindset, and why you must "spend money to make money."The Power of Profit: Why paying yourself first is not selfish, but a requirement for sustainable growth and the ability to eventually delegate tasks.Sticky Floors of Delegation: Danielle opens up about her own struggle with hiring and "letting go," revealing why the first revenue-generating hire is the hardest yet most necessary step to shatter your glass ceiling.Pricing for Value: A look at why hourly billing often penalizes expertise, and why shifting to flat-fee pricing allows you to profit from your own efficiency.If you've been putting your head in the sand when it comes to your business finances, this episode is the clarity and encouragement you need to step into the power of profit.

What if the secret to conquering self-doubt and negotiating your worth at work begins with lowering your tolerance for compromise in your most intimate relationships?In this episode of Glass Ceilings and Sticky Floors, Erica Rooney sits down with Jingjin Liu, serial entrepreneur, investor, and global advocate. Jingjin is the founder of the Elevate Group and the co-founder of Zazu, Asia's first sexual wellness company for women. She proves a radical truth: confidence in the bedroom leads to confidence in the boardroom.Jingjin shares her fascinating journey from a "weird girl" in Beijing to the youngest Global Marketing Director in a male-dominated industry, revealing how deep-seated societal conditioning and a high tolerance for small compromises at home are the sticky floors keeping women stuck in their careers.Inside the Episode:The Bedroom to Boardroom Link: Jingjin breaks down how women's tendency to make compromises in the bedroom (e.g., accommodating a partner's sleep or TV habits, or silence about sexual desire) builds a pattern of accommodating behavior that is carried directly into the workplace.The Snoring Analogy: A powerful and relatable example of the high tolerance for "bullshit" women build at home—from sleeping poorly due to a partner's snoring to not asking for dishes to be washed—and why lowering that tolerance is the first step toward self-assertion.The LIE of Self-Worth: How making small, repeated compromises at home leads to the deep, intrinsic belief that "I am not worth it," making it impossible to ask for a bigger budget or better salary at work.The Twin Sticky Floors: The two most common traps for high-achieving women in corporate settings: The Likability Trap & PerfectionismFighting for the Whole Cookie: How to move past the "tall poppy syndrome" and scarcity mindset that pits women against each other. Jing Jin argues that women are often distracted by fighting for the crumbs instead of demanding the whole damn cookie for everyone.The Global Sisterhood: Jingjin shares the exciting evolution of the Elevate Group's mission, shifting from focusing only on Asian women to impacting 5 million women in business globally, recognizing that gender discrimination and self-doubt are universal challenges.If you are ready to reclaim your power, fight back against sexism, and elevate your ambition by dismantling the inner conditioning that holds you back, this episode is a courageous call to action.

What if the secret to conquering self-doubt and negotiating your worth at work begins with lowering your tolerance for compromise in your most intimate relationships?In this episode of Glass Ceilings and Sticky Floors, Erica Rooney sits down with Jingjin Liu, serial entrepreneur, investor, and global advocate. Jingjin is the founder of the Elevate Group and the co-founder of Zazu, Asia's first sexual wellness company for women. She proves a radical truth: confidence in the bedroom leads to confidence in the boardroom.Jingjin shares her fascinating journey from a "weird girl" in Beijing to the youngest Global Marketing Director in a male-dominated industry, revealing how deep-seated societal conditioning and a high tolerance for small compromises at home are the sticky floors keeping women stuck in their careers.Inside the Episode:The Bedroom to Boardroom Link: Jingjin breaks down how women's tendency to make compromises in the bedroom (e.g., accommodating a partner's sleep or TV habits, or silence about sexual desire) builds a pattern of accommodating behavior that is carried directly into the workplace.The Snoring Analogy: A powerful and relatable example of the high tolerance for "bullshit" women build at home—from sleeping poorly due to a partner's snoring to not asking for dishes to be washed—and why lowering that tolerance is the first step toward self-assertion.The LIE of Self-Worth: How making small, repeated compromises at home leads to the deep, intrinsic belief that "I am not worth it," making it impossible to ask for a bigger budget or better salary at work.The Twin Sticky Floors: The two most common traps for high-achieving women in corporate settings: The Likability Trap & PerfectionismFighting for the Whole Cookie: How to move past the "tall poppy syndrome" and scarcity mindset that pits women against each other. Jing Jin argues that women are often distracted by fighting for the crumbs instead of demanding the whole damn cookie for everyone.The Global Sisterhood: Jingjin shares the exciting evolution of the Elevate Group's mission, shifting from focusing only on Asian women to impacting 5 million women in business globally, recognizing that gender discrimination and self-doubt are universal challenges.If you are ready to reclaim your power, fight back against sexism, and elevate your ambition by dismantling the inner conditioning that holds you back, this episode is a courageous call to action.

Are you ready to stop sprinting toward the end of the year and instead lean into the magic of the in-between?In this solo episode, host Erica Rooney challenges the traditional "hustle harder" holiday advice. She encourages you to view this time as a refractory period—a natural exhale before the big inhale of 2026—and gives you radical permission to slow down and be present.Erica reveals her secret to managing the season's chaos: strategically using AI to clear the clutter, protect her energy, and free up her mental load so she can focus on the moments that truly matter.Inside the Episode:The Refractory Pause: Why you should stop viewing the holidays as a sprint to the finish line and instead embrace the season's slower rhythm as a necessary time for rest and self-reconnection.Permission to be Present: A call to action to stop doing all the things you think you "should" do and start doing the things that genuinely matter to you (like sitting on the couch or baking horrific cookies).AI for the Invisible Labor: Erica demonstrates exactly how she uses simple AI prompts (like Chat GPT or Google Gemini) to eliminate time-consuming planning and mental clutter:Magical Meal PlanningCreative Gift IdeasThe Calm December Prompt: The specific AI prompt Erica used to design a weekly rhythm that prioritized feeling calm, intentional, and grounded, while carving out dedicated time for connection, rest, and joy.Protecting Your Energy: Why using AI is not about replacing humanity, but about clearing the invisible labor and protecting your mental energy so you don't lose your balance (or your shit) on those you love.If you're ready to ditch the guilt and use modern tools to move through the holidays with clarity, grounding, and magic, this episode is your essential guide.

Are you ready to stop sprinting toward the end of the year and instead lean into the magic of the in-between?In this solo episode, host Erica Rooney challenges the traditional "hustle harder" holiday advice. She encourages you to view this time as a refractory period—a natural exhale before the big inhale of 2026—and gives you radical permission to slow down and be present.Erica reveals her secret to managing the season's chaos: strategically using AI to clear the clutter, protect her energy, and free up her mental load so she can focus on the moments that truly matter.Inside the Episode:The Refractory Pause: Why you should stop viewing the holidays as a sprint to the finish line and instead embrace the season's slower rhythm as a necessary time for rest and self-reconnection.Permission to be Present: A call to action to stop doing all the things you think you "should" do and start doing the things that genuinely matter to you (like sitting on the couch or baking horrific cookies).AI for the Invisible Labor: Erica demonstrates exactly how she uses simple AI prompts (like Chat GPT or Google Gemini) to eliminate time-consuming planning and mental clutter:Magical Meal PlanningCreative Gift IdeasThe Calm December Prompt: The specific AI prompt Erica used to design a weekly rhythm that prioritized feeling calm, intentional, and grounded, while carving out dedicated time for connection, rest, and joy.Protecting Your Energy: Why using AI is not about replacing humanity, but about clearing the invisible labor and protecting your mental energy so you don't lose your balance (or your shit) on those you love.If you're ready to ditch the guilt and use modern tools to move through the holidays with clarity, grounding, and magic, this episode is your essential guide.

What if the ultimate key to professional success and unlocking your full potential isn't external competition, but the internal wisdom gained from managing your mind and emotions?In this episode of Glass Ceilings and Sticky Floors, host Erica Rooney sits down with Meredith Haberfield, CEO and Founder of Think Human. With a unique background blending molecular biochemistry, executive leadership, and even Whitewater River guiding, Meredith proves that igniting transformational change in innovative companies requires blending social, psychological, and neurological science.Join them as they explore why focusing on internal growth is the only way to overcome the "sticky floors" of people-pleasing and self-doubt, and how to use the science of your brain to make courageous leadership feel less scary.Inside the Episode:From Biochemistry to CEO: Meredith shares her fascinating journey, explaining how her early experiences as a Whitewater River guide and her research on stress hormones and the immune system shaped her understanding that human behavior isn't dictated by logic.The People-Pleasing Trap: The most common "sticky floor" Meredith sees with high-achieving women: using external validation (like a boss's approval) as a food source, and how to disconnect from that need to author your own path.Time-Bound Sacrifices: Powerful advice for women making sacrifices for their team: why you must put a time boundary around those sacrifices to prevent them from becoming an ugly, permanent reality.Intentionality Over Anxiety: A discussion on the difference between intention (which speaks in statements) and anxiety (which speaks in questions), and how to create a clear picture of what you're aiming for to mobilize the subconscious brain.Blind Spot Hunting: A counter-intuitive approach to uncovering your hidden flaws. Learn why you must get "excited about seeing the ugly stuff" and approach your self-judgments with compassion and curiosity, much like a detective.The Stretch Zone Advantage: The scientific reason (apoptosis) why operating in your stretch zone—just outside your comfort zone—is not only beneficial for mental growth but actively optimizes your physical immune system.The Fire-Fueling Reaction: What to do immediately after a professional failure or rejection: commit to a "boatload of action"—do 10 small things right now—to spark new possibilities and avoid the narrative of failure.If you're ready to stop waiting for external validation and unlock the internal capabilities needed to lead with unparalleled clarity and courage, this episode is your scientific playbook.

What if the ultimate key to professional success and unlocking your full potential isn't external competition, but the internal wisdom gained from managing your mind and emotions?In this episode of Glass Ceilings and Sticky Floors, host Erica Rooney sits down with Meredith Haberfield, CEO and Founder of Think Human. With a unique background blending molecular biochemistry, executive leadership, and even Whitewater River guiding, Meredith proves that igniting transformational change in innovative companies requires blending social, psychological, and neurological science.Join them as they explore why focusing on internal growth is the only way to overcome the "sticky floors" of people-pleasing and self-doubt, and how to use the science of your brain to make courageous leadership feel less scary.Inside the Episode:From Biochemistry to CEO: Meredith shares her fascinating journey, explaining how her early experiences as a Whitewater River guide and her research on stress hormones and the immune system shaped her understanding that human behavior isn't dictated by logic.The People-Pleasing Trap: The most common "sticky floor" Meredith sees with high-achieving women: using external validation (like a boss's approval) as a food source, and how to disconnect from that need to author your own path.Time-Bound Sacrifices: Powerful advice for women making sacrifices for their team: why you must put a time boundary around those sacrifices to prevent them from becoming an ugly, permanent reality.Intentionality Over Anxiety: A discussion on the difference between intention (which speaks in statements) and anxiety (which speaks in questions), and how to create a clear picture of what you're aiming for to mobilize the subconscious brain.Blind Spot Hunting: A counter-intuitive approach to uncovering your hidden flaws. Learn why you must get "excited about seeing the ugly stuff" and approach your self-judgments with compassion and curiosity, much like a detective.The Stretch Zone Advantage: The scientific reason (apoptosis) why operating in your stretch zone—just outside your comfort zone—is not only beneficial for mental growth but actively optimizes your physical immune system.The Fire-Fueling Reaction: What to do immediately after a professional failure or rejection: commit to a "boatload of action"—do 10 small things right now—to spark new possibilities and avoid the narrative of failure.If you're ready to stop waiting for external validation and unlock the internal capabilities needed to lead with unparalleled clarity and courage, this episode is your scientific playbook.

What if the secret to building an authentic, successful career isn't a linear path, but embracing the chaos of a playground model and leveraging your most human qualities?In this episode of Glass Ceilings and Sticky Floors, Erica Rooney sits down with Ashley Faus, Head of Lifecycle Management at Atlassian and author of the upcoming book, Human-Centered Marketing, How to Connect with Audiences in the Age of AI. Ashley brings a fresh perspective, blending her deep expertise in marketing and technology with her background in musical theater and vocal performance.Join them as they explore how the empathy skills of a theater kid translate directly into high-level business strategy, and how women can build true trust, authority, and influence using Ashley's four pillars of thought leadership.Inside the Episode:The Theater Kid to Tech Leader Pipeline: Ashley reveals the surprising synergy between musical theater and marketing, explaining how stepping into a character's shoes directly translates into high-level audience empathy and strategic business connection.The Problem with "Bright Girls": A discussion on why the linear structure of traditional education is a disservice to high-achieving women, leading them to believe that career snags mean they're "not smart."The Career as a Playground: Why the traditional career funnel doesn't work and how to view your professional journey as a playground where you can climb the slide or use skills in "the wrong way" (e.g., a lateral move) for massive long-term growth.The Checkers vs. Chess Promotion Rule: Critical advice for ambitious women on how to play the "smart game of checkers" for 12 months after a promotion, avoiding the frustration of unrealistic growth expectations in large companies.The Four Pillars of Thought Leadership: Ashley breaks down her framework for building influence: Credibility, Profile, Being Prolific, and Depth of Ideas. Learn which pillar is likely your weakest point and how to strengthen it.Building Trust in the Age of AI: The three essential human elements (Logic, Empathy, and Authenticity) that are critical for building genuine trust and authority when the digital world is flooded with AI-generated content.The Minimum Viable Action (MVA): A practical strategy for managing your energy and relationships, maintaining a "warm" baseline (e.g., a quick text) so you don't always have to start from zero.If you're ready to embrace a non-linear career path and use your innate human connection skills to build lasting influence and authority, this episode is your strategic guide.

What if the secret to building an authentic, successful career isn't a linear path, but embracing the chaos of a playground model and leveraging your most human qualities?In this episode of Glass Ceilings and Sticky Floors, Erica Rooney sits down with Ashley Faus, Head of Lifecycle Management at Atlassian and author of the upcoming book, Human-Centered Marketing, How to Connect with Audiences in the Age of AI. Ashley brings a fresh perspective, blending her deep expertise in marketing and technology with her background in musical theater and vocal performance.Join them as they explore how the empathy skills of a theater kid translate directly into high-level business strategy, and how women can build true trust, authority, and influence using Ashley's four pillars of thought leadership.Inside the Episode:The Theater Kid to Tech Leader Pipeline: Ashley reveals the surprising synergy between musical theater and marketing, explaining how stepping into a character's shoes directly translates into high-level audience empathy and strategic business connection.The Problem with "Bright Girls": A discussion on why the linear structure of traditional education is a disservice to high-achieving women, leading them to believe that career snags mean they're "not smart."The Career as a Playground: Why the traditional career funnel doesn't work and how to view your professional journey as a playground where you can climb the slide or use skills in "the wrong way" (e.g., a lateral move) for massive long-term growth.The Checkers vs. Chess Promotion Rule: Critical advice for ambitious women on how to play the "smart game of checkers" for 12 months after a promotion, avoiding the frustration of unrealistic growth expectations in large companies.The Four Pillars of Thought Leadership: Ashley breaks down her framework for building influence: Credibility, Profile, Being Prolific, and Depth of Ideas. Learn which pillar is likely your weakest point and how to strengthen it.Building Trust in the Age of AI: The three essential human elements (Logic, Empathy, and Authenticity) that are critical for building genuine trust and authority when the digital world is flooded with AI-generated content.The Minimum Viable Action (MVA): A practical strategy for managing your energy and relationships, maintaining a "warm" baseline (e.g., a quick text) so you don't always have to start from zero.If you're ready to embrace a non-linear career path and use your innate human connection skills to build lasting influence and authority, this episode is your strategic guide.

What if the secret to conquering the mental load and preventing burnout lies in using technology to center your core values—not just to boost productivity?In this fireside chat, Erica Rooney is joined by Tara Ryan, a technology leader, certified Fair Play facilitator, and founder of Confidant AI. Tara shares her powerful journey from scaling corporate software teams and navigating infertility to building a women-centric AI tool that tackles the unseen labor that plagues high-achieving women.Join them as they dive into the challenges of the invisible labor gap, the guilt of delegation, and how to harness emerging technology like Confidant AI to pause, self-regulate, and make values-based decisions every day.Inside the Episode:The Invisible Labor Crisis: Tara breaks down the stark reality of the 35,000 small decisions women make daily and how this constant cognitive load leads to burnout and career barriers.Fair Play Explained: A breakdown of the Fair Play method and why it's essential for creating a fair, not necessarily equal, division of unpaid labor and emotional management in the home.The Guilt of Delegation: How to overcome the guilt of redistributing labor by establishing a "minimum standard of care" with your partner, ensuring tasks are handled to a mutually agreed-upon level.The Systemic Barrier: Erica and Tara discuss how the lack of paid parental leave creates a "path dependency," preventing couples from renegotiating duties and locking women into the role of the default caregiver.Building Mother-Centric AI: A look inside Confidant AI and the groundbreaking concept of Vibe Coding—using creativity and language to build technology—to create tools that actually support women instead of just disconnecting them.Pre-Baby Conversations: Tara shares how her journey through infertility gave her and her partner the unique opportunity to have deep, intentional conversations about their core family values before their first child arrived.Revisiting Your Rules: The powerful advice Tara would give her younger self: to examine the unwritten rules and external expectations governing her life to ensure they align with her true, deeply held belief system.If you're ready to stop shouldering the entire mental load and explore how to use technology to live a more regulated, values-driven life, this conversation is your next step.

What if the secret to conquering the mental load and preventing burnout lies in using technology to center your core values—not just to boost productivity?In this fireside chat, Erica Rooney is joined by Tara Ryan, a technology leader, certified Fair Play facilitator, and founder of Confidant AI. Tara shares her powerful journey from scaling corporate software teams and navigating infertility to building a women-centric AI tool that tackles the unseen labor that plagues high-achieving women.Join them as they dive into the challenges of the invisible labor gap, the guilt of delegation, and how to harness emerging technology like Confidant AI to pause, self-regulate, and make values-based decisions every day.Inside the Episode:The Invisible Labor Crisis: Tara breaks down the stark reality of the 35,000 small decisions women make daily and how this constant cognitive load leads to burnout and career barriers.Fair Play Explained: A breakdown of the Fair Play method and why it's essential for creating a fair, not necessarily equal, division of unpaid labor and emotional management in the home.The Guilt of Delegation: How to overcome the guilt of redistributing labor by establishing a "minimum standard of care" with your partner, ensuring tasks are handled to a mutually agreed-upon level.The Systemic Barrier: Erica and Tara discuss how the lack of paid parental leave creates a "path dependency," preventing couples from renegotiating duties and locking women into the role of the default caregiver.Building Mother-Centric AI: A look inside Confidant AI and the groundbreaking concept of Vibe Coding—using creativity and language to build technology—to create tools that actually support women instead of just disconnecting them.Pre-Baby Conversations: Tara shares how her journey through infertility gave her and her partner the unique opportunity to have deep, intentional conversations about their core family values before their first child arrived.Revisiting Your Rules: The powerful advice Tara would give her younger self: to examine the unwritten rules and external expectations governing her life to ensure they align with her true, deeply held belief system.If you're ready to stop shouldering the entire mental load and explore how to use technology to live a more regulated, values-driven life, this conversation is your next step.

What if the most impactful leadership strategy isn't focused on your team, but on the inner wisdom and grounding you gain from managing yourself?In this episode of Glass Ceilings and Sticky Floors, host Erica Rooney sits down with Margaret Andrews, author of Managing Yourself to Lead Others and the educator behind Harvard's most popular leadership program. Margaret reveals that true, authentic leadership unlocks when you first achieve self-mastery.Join them as they explore the foundational questions needed to understand your own influences, values, and definitions of success. Learn why knowing yourself roots you, giving you the inner strength to lead without conforming to outdated molds, and how to use simple tools to make grounded decisions even under extreme pressure.Inside the Episode:The Stinging Catalyst: Margaret's personal story of receiving harsh feedback ("You're not self-aware") that propelled her to create a revolutionary leadership program.The Foundational Questions: Identifying the deep questions necessary to understand who and what has shaped you, and what core values you're actually living.Beyond the Prescription of Success: Why women need to define success based on how they want to feel, not just outward achievements.Actionable Tools for Pressure: Simple techniques like "Write it out, shake it out" to handle big emotions and make grounded decisions.The Power of Being Rooted: How self-understanding makes you less knocked off balance by the behavior of others, allowing you to lead authentically.If you're ready to stop conforming and unlock the unique, powerful leader only you can be, this episode is your playbook for inner transformation.

What if the most impactful leadership strategy isn't focused on your team, but on the inner wisdom and grounding you gain from managing yourself?In this episode of Glass Ceilings and Sticky Floors, host Erica Rooney sits down with Margaret Andrews, author of Managing Yourself to Lead Others and the educator behind Harvard's most popular leadership program. Margaret reveals that true, authentic leadership unlocks when you first achieve self-mastery.Join them as they explore the foundational questions needed to understand your own influences, values, and definitions of success. Learn why knowing yourself roots you, giving you the inner strength to lead without conforming to outdated molds, and how to use simple tools to make grounded decisions even under extreme pressure.Inside the Episode:The Stinging Catalyst: Margaret's personal story of receiving harsh feedback ("You're not self-aware") that propelled her to create a revolutionary leadership program.The Foundational Questions: Identifying the deep questions necessary to understand who and what has shaped you, and what core values you're actually living.Beyond the Prescription of Success: Why women need to define success based on how they want to feel, not just outward achievements.Actionable Tools for Pressure: Simple techniques like "Write it out, shake it out" to handle big emotions and make grounded decisions.The Power of Being Rooted: How self-understanding makes you less knocked off balance by the behavior of others, allowing you to lead authentically.If you're ready to stop conforming and unlock the unique, powerful leader only you can be, this episode is your playbook for inner transformation.

Are you sprinting toward the end of the year on fumes, feeling the pressure to achieve "perfection" when you're already doing the work of three people?In this solo episode, host Erica Rooney flips the script on the year-end hustle. She argues that finishing the year strong doesn't mean doing more, it means choosing better and slowing down on purpose to align your efforts. This is the antidote to the corporate finish line chaos.Erica introduces her simple, three-part weekly audit designed to replace emotion with evidence, cut the endless activity that keeps you stuck, and ensure your time is spent on tasks that guarantee future growth, not burnout.Inside the Episode:The Year-End Pressure Cooker: A candid look at the relentless demands of Q4—from performance reviews and budget season to the inevitable holiday hosting and perfectionism.Activity vs. Impact: Why being busy doesn't mean you're being valuable. Erica shares how to stop doing the "busy work" (like organizing your makeup drawer!) and identify the three things that truly move the needle toward your goals.The Energy Check: The importance of tracking your physical state. Learn the color-coded calendar method to identify what activities (meetings, projects, or people) leave you energized versus totally drained.Eating the Frog Strategically: How to make dreaded, energy-sucking tasks less draining by strategically placing them in your schedule to clear up mental space and anxiety.The Alignment Test (Bridge vs. Cliff): A crucial test for any task:Bridge Activities: Set you up for future growth, recognition, and long-term alignment.Cliff Activities: Take your time and energy but get you nowhere toward your long-term vision. (Hint: Reformatting slides is a cliff!)Your Weekly Action Plan: A simple, low-effort routine for Friday evening to map your calendar, cut the drains, and prioritize the bridge activities that guarantee you start the new year rested and ahead of the curve.If you are ready to get off the corporate hamster wheel and create a life you don't have to feel like you're escaping from, this episode is your strategic guide to ending the year aligned, not exhausted.

In this episode of Glass Ceilings and Sticky Floors, Erica Rooney sits down with Claude Silver, Chief Heart Officer at VaynerMedia and author of Be Yourself At Work. Claude leads a global organization by proving that emotional intelligence is not a "soft skill," but a core business function that drives sustainable, high-growth culture. She shares the origin story of her unique role, revealing how to infuse empathy from the top down and why showing your full humanity is the ultimate strategy for success in a fast-paced, high-pressure world.Inside the Episode:The Chief Heart Officer (CHO) Role: Claude details the evolution of her groundbreaking role, defining it as the executive responsible for the "heartbeat" of the entire organization.Be Yourself At Work: The core message of her book, written for anyone who has felt the need to "shapeshift" or "code-switch" to survive the corporate day.The New Work Paradox: How the emerging Gen Z and Gen Alpha workforce is demanding self-awareness and mental health resources, forcing companies to move beyond toxic cultural norms.Emotional Intelligence as a Superpower: How women can reframe and own their EQ, transforming the "too emotional" label into their most valuable leadership asset.Shutting Down the Inner Critic: Claude introduces the LIE Exercise—a science-backed method for combating imposter syndrome.Fierce Empathy in Action: What kind candor looks like when delivering tough feedback, fostering "genuine care" so that hard conversations are seen as connection, not correction.The Non-Technical Skill of Tomorrow: Claude argues that empathy is the single most critical skill for future leaders.Advice for the Un-Evolved Workplace: How to continue being your authentic self and a champion for others, even in environments that don't support it.If you're ready to stop hiding who you are and learn how to make your humanity your biggest competitive advantage, this episode is a powerful call to action.

What if the fear and self-doubt you feel in a toxic job are intentionally manufactured by the company—and you hold more power than you think?In this episode of Glass Ceilings and Sticky Floors, Erica Rooney sits down with Dan Goodman, founder of the Dan Goodman Employment Advisory. As a corporate veteran who witnessed unfair tactics from the inside, Dan now acts as the strategic counter to HR, having helped employees negotiate over $11.4 million in severance increases in the last 27 months.Join them as they pull back the curtain on predatory PIPS, severance negotiation, and why "your employer is not your family" is the most important lesson for every high-achieving woman.Inside the Episode:The Great Severance Lie: Dan shares his origin story—a pivot from commission verification to helping employees fight back—and the staggering financial impact his advisory has had.Why the PIP is Despicable: A raw, experienced-based take on why predatory PIPS (Performance Improvement Plans) shouldn't exist, and how they are intentionally designed to blindside high-performers and make them quit.The "Gerbil Wheel" of Stress: Understanding the intentional plan to undermine your mental health, confidence, and trust, and how to stop spiraling down the "rat hole" of personalized self-doubt.HR Is Not Your Family: Why the Human Resources department is primarily there to protect the company's interests, and how to use HR only when you are ready to strategically plan your exit.Your Documentation Playbook: The three crucial buckets of information you need to gather (starting on Day One) to build your case and protect yourself before you are locked out of your systems.Severance Negotiation: Before You Arrive: Why executives should negotiate their severance and restrictive clauses before taking the job, and why a C-Suite member should expect a full year of compensation upon termination.Flipping the Script: The most powerful technique for women facing termination: moving from defending yourself against the employer's false narrative to articulating your truthful narrative, backed by their actions.If you are a high-achieving woman facing unfair treatment, a PIP, or simply want to know how to protect your career and your worth in the corporate world, this conversation is an essential guide to fighting back.

What if your "stress" isn't one big mess, but three distinct types of challenges that require entirely different solutions?In this episode of Glass Ceilings and Sticky Floors, host Erica Rooney sits down with Allison Graham, a leading voice on strategic resilience, and author of books like Take Back Your Weekends. Driven by her own journey through chronic pain and adversity, Allison offers a science-backed framework to help high-achievers stop sacrificing their sanity and manage challenges more efficiently.Join them as they dissect the "tangled up stress mess" we all live in and learn how to separate Adversities (life-changing issues), Obstacles (repeat problems), and the endless Task Circle (the to-do list) so you can regain control and dramatically reduce unnecessary stress.Inside the Episode:The Triple Resilience Model: Allison's revolutionary framework for separating your challenges:Adversities: Catastrophic life events that require survival stress (and self-compassion).Obstacles: Repeating moments of angst that you are paid to solve (requiring problem-solving).Tasks: The endless to-do list that needs zero emotional contribution.The "Task Circle" Trap: Why expecting to ever close the loop on your to-do list is a fantasy that drains your capacity and steals your happiness.Stop the Spiral: How to use the "better word game" to neutralize your language (e.g., swapping "awful" for "mildly irritating") and reverse-engineer the emotional swirl of destructive stress.The X Then Y Fallacy: Why putting off happiness until after you get caught up or after the chaos subsides is a recipe for perpetual unhappiness.Taking Back Your Weekends: The biggest mistake high-achievers make—allowing others to control their schedule—and simple, strategic boundaries to reclaim your time.Awareness Over Judgment: Why approaching your bad habits with compassionate curiosity (e.g., "Hmm, that's interesting that I did that again") is key to creating lasting change.If you're ready to stop the overwhelm and start approaching your life with strategic calm, this episode is your essential guide to building real, practical resilience.

What if the biggest barrier to gender equality isn't who does the dishes, but who has to remember the dishes need doing?In this episode of Glass Ceilings and Sticky Floors, host Erica Rooney sits down with Allison Daminger, a groundbreaking sociologist and author of What's On Her Mind: The Mental Workload of Family Life. Allison's viral research shines a light on the mental load—the planning, anticipating, and managing of all the things—that disproportionately falls on women.Join them as they dissect why even in "woke" partnerships with hands-on dads, women's brains never get to turn off. Allison reveals the societal structures and deep-seated norms that keep this imbalance sticky and, crucially, how we can start an honest, constructive conversation to create a more equitable home life.Inside the Episode:Defining the Invisible Labor: The difference between the physical execution of a chore and the taxing mental work of planning and anticipating that precedes it.The "Nothing" Response: Erica shares a powerful personal anecdote of asking her husband what he was thinking about, only to receive the one-word answer that perfectly summed up the mental load gap.The Next Frontier of Equality: Why sharing the mental load is the final, sticky frontier in achieving true gender parity, even as men do more physical labor than previous generations.The Policy Problem: Erica and Allison connect the mental load directly to the lack of paid parental leave in the US, arguing that early exposure to a child's needs is key to long-term equity.Superhumans vs. Bumblers: Allison's favorite part of her research, revealing why women are overwhelmingly perceived as the "superhumans" (naturally organized) and men as the "bumblers" (go-with-the-flow)—and why this is a harmful myth.The Truth About Changing Roles: Insights into how the mental load impacts women's career progression, and why couples with higher-earning women still often see the woman carrying the mental burden.The Unjudged Reality: A liberating conclusion: it's okay if changing the load is too much work, as long as you're clear-eyed and okay with the current arrangement.If you've ever felt deeply frustrated by having to manage all the things for your family, this episode will make you feel seen, validated, and equipped to start the conversation you need to have.

Finish the Year Aligned, Not Exhausted: How to Audit Your Energy and Reclaim Your FocusWhat if finishing the year strong didn't mean doing more—but doing what actually matters?In this solo episode of Glass Ceilings and Sticky Floors, host Erica Rooney flips the script on “year-end hustle.” Instead of sprinting toward burnout, she challenges listeners to pause, take stock, and finish the year in alignment with their goals and energy—not perfection or pressure.Through personal stories, humor, and actionable strategies, Erica lays out her simple yet powerful three-part year-end audit to help you separate impact from activity, identify what truly moves the needle, and stop letting busywork control your life.Inside the Episode:The Corporate Finish Line: Erica recalls her HR days—the endless reviews, budget meetings, and parties—and why women are conditioned to equate doing more with success.The Three-Part Audit: Learn how to evaluate your self, your work, and your energy to prioritize what actually matters.Evidence Over Emotion: Why “what gets measured gets managed” isn't just a cliché—it's the key to breaking free from hustle culture.Energy Mapping: The color-coded strategy that helps you spot what fuels you and what drains you, so you can start scheduling your days for success.Bridge vs. Cliff Activities: The powerful framework Erica uses to decide whether something propels her forward—or just keeps her spinning on the hamster wheel.Weekly Reflection Ritual: How one 15-minute end-of-week check-in can lower your stress, boost happiness, and help you start every Monday focused and fulfilled.If you're tired of ending every year overwhelmed, this episode is your permission slip to slow down, realign, and finish strong on purpose.

What if the biggest barrier to living your dream life isn't your career, but the financial confidence and literacy you still need to claim?In this episode of Glass Ceilings and Sticky Floors, host Erica Rooney sits down with Steph Wagner, National Director of Women and Wealth at Northern Trust, former private equity professional, and divorce financial strategist. Steph's personal story of navigating a life-shattering financial crisis after a successful career fueled her mission to empower all women.Join them as they discuss why financial security is the bedrock of a fulfilling life, the emotional "sticky floors" that keep women from engaging with their money, and the vital steps you need to take now to ensure a prosperous future.Inside the Episode:The Wake-Up Call: Steph shares her powerful story of leaving private equity to prioritize family, falling into a false sense of security, and the devastating, eye-opening moment she realized she had no visibility into her family's finances.The Longevity Crisis: Startling statistics on why women must take financial charge, as they significantly outlive men and risk running out of money in their later decades.The Sticky Floors of Money: Unpacking the emotional barriers—like shame, avoidance, and the deep-seated belief of "I don't know enough"—that hold women back, regardless of their income level.From Scarcity to Abundance: Why a growth mindset is critical, but must be paired with the tools and literacy to grow wealth outside of your paycheck.The Core Message of Fly: Why the book is an empowerment guide disguised as a finance book, emphasizing the correlation between financial well-being and living an authentic life you love.Actionable First Steps: Steph's advice on how to start building your financial foundation today, including the need for transparency, honest self-assessment, and seeking financial literacy.The Never-Say-Never Lesson: The one crucial piece of advice Steph would give her younger self: never allow yourself to lean out or assume you're protected from life's curveballs.If you've ever felt overwhelmed, intimidated, or disconnected from your personal finances, this conversation is an inspiring and urgent call to action to claim your financial power.

What if the secret to a happy life isn't about productivity, but about confronting your own mortality?In this episode of Glass Ceilings and Sticky Floors, Erica Rooney sits down with Karen Salmansohn, a bestselling author, wellness expert, and the founder of NotSalmon.com. With a blend of psychology, humor, and a no-BS approach, Karen empowers women to live their happiest, most successful lives. Her new book, Your To Die for Life: How to Maximize Joy and Minimize Regret Before Your Time Runs Out, challenges us to think about life's end to get the most out of our today.Join them as they explore the power of "mortality awareness" as a motivator for change, the science behind rewiring your brain for confidence, and why humor is one of the most effective tools for managing challenging emotions.Inside the Episode:From Ad Exec to Author: Karen's fascinating journey from a high-stakes, high-stress advertising career to becoming a best-selling author and wellness guru with a book titled How to Succeed in Business Without a Penis.The Stop and Swap: A powerful behavioral change strategy rooted in neuroplasticity. Learn why you can't just stop a bad habit or a negative thought—you must replace it with a positive one.The Power of Your Eulogy: Why writing your own eulogy is a life-changing exercise for reverse-engineering your life's purpose and ensuring you live a life of meaning, not just milestones.The Top Regrets of the Dying: Karen shares how a personal tragedy—the death of her father—inspired her to confront the regrets of the dying and change her life's trajectory, leading her to have a son on the same day her father died.The Identity-Based Statement: Learn this powerful psychological tool for changing your habits by first changing how you see yourself.Core Values Over Goals: The difference between a to-do list and a "to-die list," and why living a life aligned with your core values is the only way to minimize regret.Humor as a Superpower: How to use humor as a strategic tool to navigate challenging emotions and move past self-doubt.If you're an ambitious woman who wants to live a bolder, more authentic life—one with no regrets—this episode is an urgent and inspiring wake-up call.

Register at michellegrosser.com/workshopPeople-pleasing isn't just draining — it's a full-on energy thief and a silent barrier to your powerIn this episode, I'm talking with Erica Rooney, who brings over 15 years of insight into how people-pleasing shapes our professional and personal lives — often in ways we don't realize.Erica's approach is all about realigning your career and life with your core values so you can stop bending over backwards and start showing up as your full, vibrant self.We're unpacking: ✔️ How people-pleasing fuels that low-grade stress and negative emotions you can't shake ✔️ The hidden ways it sabotages your career, leadership, and workplace well-being ✔️ Why people-pleasing is more than a “bad habit” — it's a nervous system pattern begging for healing ✔️ Steps to reclaim your boundaries, confidence, and authentic voice ✔️ How to move from seeking approval to owning your worth in all areas of lifeIf you're tired of the exhausting cycle of trying to meet everyone else's expectations and craving freedom to lead with courage and gentleness, this episode is your wake-up call.