From Side Hustles to Success: Mike Rose on Grit, Entrepreneurship, and Return on Energy

In this episode of Grit Mindset, host Matt Rosen sits down with speaker, leadership coach, and author Mike Rose to unpack the concept of Return on Energy (ROE) and the driving forces behind his entrepreneurial journey. Mike shares vivid stories of his early hustles—from charging tolls in his Texas neighborhood to buying his first business at 18—and how these adventures shaped his unique perspective on business, leadership, and resilience. Together, they discuss the importance of grit, the influence of supportive yet hands-off parents, and the lessons Mike learned about financial literacy, culture, and company growth while building and selling successful ventures. If you’re curious about how to inspire energy and enthusiasm in teams, the true meaning of grit, and actionable steps to create an environment where people thrive, this episode is packed with wisdom, real-world advice, and inspiring takeaways. Don’t miss Mike’s tips on cultivating success, embracing challenges, and leading with purpose—plus a look inside his new book, ROE Powered ROI!