Not all transformations happen overnight. Some unfold gradually, through moments of clarity, courage, and choice—building a legacy of impact that stretches far beyond what we can immediately see. True empowerment isn’t about becoming someone new; it’s about rediscovering who you’ve always been. It’s about reclaiming your voice, reconnecting with your worth, and remembering that the strength you’re searching for has always resided within. But this journey of self-discovery and authentic living doesn’t happen in isolation—it needs champions. It needs those who understand that empowerment isn’t just about individual success but about creating ripple effects of transformation that touch every life they encounter.
Erica Gifford Mills has never been one to simply follow conventional paths. She doesn’t just work within systems—she transforms them from the inside out. From her extensive 25-year corporate background to her current role as an international speaker, award-winning author, and talk radio host, she has carved a distinctive presence in the coaching and leadership development space, guiding others to lead from their roots.
From Corporate Experience to Soul-Centered Coaching
After a successful 25-year career in the corporate world, Erica has established herself as a powerful voice in personal and professional transformation. As the founder of Balanced Symmetree, established in 2016 in Wisconsin, she embodies passion, dedication, and an unwavering belief in the transformative power of authentic leadership and self-discovery.
Erica’s journey to empowerment was born from lived experience—navigating personal adversity while striving for professional excellence. “I recognized a deep calling to help others tap into their inner strength, reclaim their voice, and live with intention,” she explains. “Balanced Symmetree was created as a sanctuary for growth—a space where individuals could align mind, body, and spirit while embracing their true selves.”
The defining moment in her career came when she realized she had spent years conforming to roles and expectations that didn’t reflect her authentic self. Looking around, she saw others doing the same—struggling silently, dimming their light. “That realization was the spark,” she recalls. “I knew I had to be the light for others, guiding them back to their power, helping them rediscover joy, balance, and confidence.”
Today, as she champions what she calls “Rooted Leadership,” Erica continues to inspire and guide, carrying forward values of authenticity, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to empowering others to live from a place of truth and purpose.
Compassionate Accountability: The Heart of Transformative Coaching
Erica’s approach to coaching blends compassion with a no-nonsense attitude—a powerful combination forged through her years of corporate experience and personal growth. “I believe true transformation comes when empathy meets accountability,” she states. “My corporate background taught me the value of results and efficiency, but it also highlighted the importance of humanity in leadership.”
This balanced approach is at the core of her coaching philosophy. She meets clients where they are—with compassion, candor, and clarity—never sugarcoating the truth but always delivering it with love and belief in their capacity to rise to any challenge. “A rooted leader acknowledges limiting beliefs but refuses to be defined by them. Instead of succumbing to fear, they harness it as a catalyst for growth,” Erica explains.
Her success stories speak volumes about the impact of this approach. One client came to her feeling completely stuck—professionally drained and personally disconnected. Through their work together, the client rediscovered her voice, set empowering boundaries, and eventually launched her own consulting business. Today, she’s thriving and mentoring others. “Watching her transformation reminds me why I do what I do—it’s not just about success, it’s about soul-level alignment,” Erica reflects, adding humbly, “And, to be clear, my clients are the ones who do the hard work, I give them the tools.”
Breaking Barriers Through Authentic Communication
As an award-winning author and international speaker, Erica’s message remains consistent across all platforms: “You are already enough.” This powerful affirmation threads through her books, keynote speeches, and coaching programs, reminding everyone that true empowerment doesn’t come from becoming someone else—it comes from embracing your authentic self.
“In my speaking and writing, I challenge my audiences to embrace vulnerability with courage,” she says. “Vulnerability is not a flaw—it is your superpower. When you allow yourself to be seen, truly seen, you deepen your resilience and create powerful, authentic connections.”
Erica emphasizes several key themes in her work: the importance of establishing clear boundaries, the ability to adapt and evolve for continuous growth, and the power of prioritizing well-being. “Boundaries aren’t walls; they are bridges to healthier relationships,” she explains. “Life is constantly changing, and so must we. What once served you may no longer align with who you’re becoming, and that’s not failure, that’s evolution.”
To ensure her messages resonate with diverse audiences globally, Erica leads with authenticity and listens with intention. “Every audience, every client brings a unique perspective, and I honor that diversity by creating inclusive, culturally conscious experiences,” she notes. Whether on a global stage or in a one-on-one session, she focuses on universal truths—resilience, courage, growth—that transcend borders and connect us all.
Balanced Symmetree: Where Strategy Meets Spirit
What sets Balanced Symmetree apart in the crowded coaching industry is Erica’s integrative, soul-centered approach to transformation—one that honors both strategy and spirit. “I blend traditional coaching frameworks with holistic wellness practices like mindfulness, energy alignment, emotional intelligence, and somatic awareness,” she explains. “But what truly sets my work apart is my deep commitment to supporting the whole person—mind, body, and spirit.”
Her coaching isn’t about surface-level success or simply checking boxes. It’s about helping individuals cultivate deep-rooted confidence and live lives that reflect their deepest values and purpose. This comprehensive methodology recognizes that growth is not linear and that well-being is not a luxury but a necessity.
“Balanced Symmetree isn’t just a coaching platform, it’s a movement,” Erica affirms. “A rooted, resilient, and empowering space where individuals come to reconnect with their truth, rise into their purpose, and grow into the most aligned version of themselves.”
When measuring success, Erica looks beyond external achievements to focus on inner transformation. “I measure success by the breakthroughs, the mindset shifts, and the renewed sense of purpose I see in my clients,” she says. “Whether it’s a team that begins communicating with more authenticity or an individual who finally takes the leap into their dream career, that impact is the true metric.”
Overcoming Challenges and Empowering Women Leaders
As a female leader in coaching, speaking, and media, Erica has faced her share of challenges, including imposter syndrome, gender bias, and pressure to conform. “But I’ve also learned that authenticity is my superpower,” she reflects. “I overcame these challenges by refusing to shrink, surrounding myself with empowering communities, and staying grounded in my mission. Every challenge became a stepping stone to greater strength and clarity.”
Her advice to women striving to step into leadership roles or entrepreneurial ventures is powerful: “Lead from your roots. Trust yourself! Your intuition, your values, and your lived experiences are powerful guides.” She encourages women not to wait for permission to lead, to surround themselves with people who uplift and challenge them, and to embrace lifelong learning.
“Above all, remember: You are not here to shrink or simply survive,” she emphasizes. “You are here to rise, to thrive, and to lead with authenticity, courage, and grace. You belong in every space you feel called to and, when you lead from your roots, you inspire others to do the same.”
Innovation and Adaptation in a Changing World
To stay ahead of industry trends and adapt her coaching methodologies in a rapidly evolving world, Erica remains curious and invested in her own growth. “I invest in my own growth through continued education, mastermind groups, and global leadership forums,” she says. “More importantly, I listen to my clients and the pulse of the world. This allows me to adapt with agility; always grounded in timeless principles but unafraid to innovate.”
Technology plays a crucial role in expanding the reach of her transformative work. “From interactive virtual workshops to global webinars, I use tech to connect, engage, and inspire,” Erica explains. She incorporates multimedia learning tools, digital assessments, and online community platforms to support clients in real time, regardless of their location.
Amplifying Voices Through Media Presence
As a talk radio host, Erica leverages media to inspire and educate a broader audience. “My talk radio platform is a powerful extension of my mission—to educate, empower, and elevate,” she shares. “It gives me the opportunity to bring real, raw, and transformative conversations to the forefront.”
Through in-depth interviews with thought leaders, entrepreneurs, authors, coaches, and everyday heroes, she shares tools, stories, and strategies that ignite a spark in the hearts of her listeners. But more than that, it’s a space for collaboration and amplification, especially for fellow women leaders.
“I’m deeply passionate about using media to lift others by showcasing their wisdom, platforms, and voices,” Erica says. “Whether it’s a new author with a message the world needs to hear or a coach creating change in their community, I see my role as a connector; someone who bridges powerful voices with the audiences who need them most.”
One of her most memorable interviews was with a survivor who turned her trauma into a global movement. “Her resilience was palpable, and her story touched so many lives,” Erica recalls. “These moments remind me of the power of storytelling to create ripple effects of healing and hope.”
Recognition and Continuous Growth
Being featured in Apple News and Google News as a Top 10 Coach of 2023 has been both humbling and energizing for Erica. “It validated the impact of Balanced Symmetree and opened doors to collaborate on a global scale,” she notes. “But more than that, it deepened my responsibility to serve, to continue showing up authentically and helping others rise.”
Her motivation remains deeply personal, rooted in her own journey of overcoming adversity, reclaiming her voice, and rising into leadership. “I know what it feels like to question your worth, to navigate life misaligned, and to long for something more,” she reflects. “That journey fuels my passion to help others rise, too.”
Every client breakthrough, moment of clarity, or recognition of worth reinforces why she does this work. “When a listener reaches out and says, ‘That changed my life,’ it touches a part of me that once needed to hear the same message,” Erica shares. “I don’t set higher benchmarks for accolades or status; I set them to continuously expand the impact I can make. With every life touched, I’m reminded that this work matters.”
Future Vision: Expanding Impact and Legacy
Looking ahead, Erica is working on her next writing project, which explores Rooted Leadership: the art of leading from within, staying grounded during change, and cultivating resilience through life’s most challenging seasons. Her first solo book and companion workbook, “The Rooted Life: Live, Love, Let Go,” received two awards in less than 12 months and is currently up for 2025 Author of the Year. She recently released the #1 International Best Selling collaboration book “Cracking the Rich Code, Vol. 16,” which was endorsed by Tony Robbins.
A new speaking tour is also in the works, focusing on women’s leadership, legacy building, and authentic empowerment. “This season of expansion is all about creating impact on deeper levels,” she says, “and I’m excited to bring powerful, heart-centered conversations to stages and organizations across the globe.”
Beyond her leadership work, Erica is stepping into new advocacy roles that are especially close to her heart. “After facing my own recent battle with breast cancer, I’m using my voice to raise awareness, promote early detection, and empower others to be proactive in their wellness journey with a bit of humor and a lot of dignity,” she explains.
Following the devastating loss of her beloved son, she’s become passionately committed to advocating for mental health awareness within the military and veteran communities. “His story is part of my legacy now, and I am determined to honor him by helping others find the support, healing, and hope they deserve,” Erica shares with quiet determination.
“This chapter of my life is about more than coaching or speaking,” she reflects. “It’s about creating impact from a place of purpose, pain, and profound love. I’m embracing it fully, with open arms and a rooted heart.”
Wisdom for Rising Leaders
For women leaders striving to make an impact, Erica offers powerful guidance: “Lead yourself first. True leadership begins within with self-awareness, discipline, and a deep commitment to growth. Before you can lead others, you must be willing to do the inner work: to face your fears, challenge your limits, and step boldly into your own evolution.”
She encourages everyone to rewrite their narrative, recognizing that the past doesn’t define potential. “Your scars are not signs of weakness, but symbols of strength. Every challenge you’ve overcome is proof that you’re still standing, still rising.”
Cultivating resilience, embracing emotional intelligence, taking bold action, adapting to change, and empowering others are all essential elements of authentic leadership. But perhaps most importantly, Erica emphasizes the power of standing rooted in your truth.
“The world doesn’t need more people playing small,” she asserts. “It needs you: your boldness, your brilliance, your vision. You were never meant to simply exist. You were meant to thrive, to lead, and to leave a legacy of light. Rise, unapologetically.”
You don’t have to become someone new; you just have to remember who you’ve always been.