In today's episode, Heather Hansen sits down with her good friend and returning guest, Judge Rosemarie Aquilina, Michigan judge, author, and trailblazer best known for presiding over the Larry Nassar USA Gymnastics case. Together, they dive into Judge Aquilina's newest book, Speak Up: Lessons in Trusting Your Instincts, and unpack what it truly means to embrace your voice, conquer fear, and stand in your self-worth.

Drawing from her decades on the bench, her time in the military, and her role as a mentor for women, Rosemarie shares how we can turn fear into fuel, failure into wisdom, and change into growth.

In this episode, you'll learn:

The Power of Fear – Why fear isn't something to eliminate but something to learn from.
Owning Failure – How accepting your mistakes can transform them into moments of strength.
The "Blue Ink" Lesson – How one lawyer turned public embarrassment into a courtroom victory.
The Language of Leadership – Why small word choices (like using the instead of a) can change how people perceive your authority.
Embracing Change – How preparation, adaptability, and voice help you thrive through uncertainty.
Building Self-Worth – Why being your own hero is the foundation of authentic confidence.

In this episode:

[00:00] Meet Judge Rosemarie Aquilina, her story from Munich to Michigan's first female JAG Corps member

[02:00] Fear, failure, and the courage to show up anyway

[06:30] The "blue ink" courtroom story and lessons in embarrassment

[09:30] How metaphors and language shape persuasion

[11:00] Embracing change, preparation, and control

[15:40] Why Judge Aquilina never asks "why"

[18:00] The difference between a solution and the solution

[22:00] How to be an insider in your own life

[26:00] Writing as a tool for self-discovery and healing

Resources & Links:

📘 Speak Up: Lessons in Trusting Your Instincts – Buy the book here

🌐 Follow Judge Rosemarie Aquilina – Website

Connect with Heather:

The Elegant Warrior Podcast and content posted by Heather Hansen is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast or website is at the user's own risk. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical or mental health condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.