Imperfectly Impactful with Cat Roten

It’s my birthday & instead of diving into a reflection from last year (go a few episodes back to hear that!), I am sharing how this month I have prioritized myself and celebrated for the first time in forever. For so long, I’ve tied my worth to how productive, helpful, and “on” I could be, but this season is about something different. It’s about learning to play, celebrate, & find joy in l...

If you’re a business owner who dreads taxes, you’re not alone. But what if you could look at taxes differently? In this episode, I’m sharing a major mindset shift I’ve had around money, taxes, and business growth thanks to the incredible Alex Coyne, who spoke at the Power Table Live Conference this past April 2025. Alex flipped the script on all of us. Instead of seeing taxes as something to resen...

In this solo episode, I’m sharing something that’s been slowly transforming the way I move through life and business: No longer using the word BUSY in my vocabulary. I talk about what it really means to let go of the “busy” badge, and how choosing a slower, more intentional pace has impacted everything…. from how I show up in my work to how I feel in my body. If you’ve ever equated “busy” with “pr...

When building a business—or hosting an event—strategy matters. But sometimes, the most powerful shifts happen beyond the strategy itself. In this conversation, we welcome Christina Luna back to the show and dive deep into the unseen layers that shape how we grow, create, and lead—especially when the external strategy isn’t enough. We talk about the energetic and seasonal shifts happening right now...

It’s officially been one year since I left my corporate job—and in this episode, I’m taking you behind the scenes of everything this season has taught me. From deep grief to unexpected growth, this past year has challenged me, stretched me, and ultimately, shaped me. In this vulnerable solo episode, I’m sharing: What no one tells you about the messy middle between safety and full alignment How I’v...

Welcome to first episode of Your Successful Event Journey series!  In this episode, I answer the question, “What do you mean by Your Successful Event Journey?” I’m breaking down each phase of the journey & diving into our first one– IDEATION—the starting point for all aligned & impactful events. Before you dive into strategy and execution, you need to get clear on your vision and why.  In...

Planning a successful event—whether virtual or in-person, for-profit or non-profit,—comes down to strategy and the right tools. In this episode, I sit down with Ben Dell , founder and CEO of Hey Summit, to explore how to maximize success when planning both virtual and in-person events on your own or using HeySummit. Ben shares: The key differences between virtual and in-person events—and how to ch...

Contracts aren’t just paperwork—they’re essential for protecting your event and your peace of mind. In this solo episode, I’m diving into why contracts matter and how you should be negotiating even for your events. Whether you're working with vendors, sponsors, or speakers, having a contract in place can save you from last-minute stress and unexpected costs. 👉 Disclaimer: I’m not a lawyer, and th...

Finding the right room can change everything in your business—but what if that room doesn’t exist yet? In this SPECIAL collab episode, I’m joined by Taylor Smith, founder of The Power Table , to talk about: 1. How to identify the right room for your goals—whether it’s networking, learning, or building connections. 2. When to create your own event—and why filling the gap in the market could be your...

Running a business is a long game—and sometimes the biggest growth comes from unexpected shifts. In this episode, I’m giving you a behind-the-scenes look at what’s been happening in my life and business over the last 6- 8 weeks. From navigating financial challenges to discovering new local opportunities, I’m diving into: Why business growth is a long game—and how I’ve shifted my mindset to embrace...

Event planning comes with a lot of moving parts, and even the best hosts can overlook key details that impact success. In this episode, I’m breaking down three common event planning mistakes I see all the time—and how you can avoid them. Key Takeaways: The #1 communication mistake event hosts make with vendors, sponsors, and speakers (and how to fix it). Why overloading your schedule can backfire—...

As event hosts, we’re often balancing growth, profitability, and purpose—but how do you do it without burnout? In this episode, I sit down with Stephanie Ross, one of our Founding Event Host Community members, to discuss: Lessons from attending vs. hosting events—and how both shape your strategy. How to grow your event without overcommitting your time & energy. The power of sponsorships &...

The event industry is evolving fast—are you keeping up? In this solo episode, I’m breaking down five major shifts happening in 2025 that every event host and planner should know. From niching down your event to the rise of collaborations and intentional spending, these trends are shaping how we plan, market, and execute events. Tune in to learn: Why niching your event is no longer optional & h...

Are you an event host, an event planner, or both? In this episode, I break down the key differences between these roles and help you determine which one fits you best. You’ll learn: What defines an event host and how hosting impacts your business. What an event planner actually does (hint: it’s more than just logistics!). How to manage both roles effectively—or decide when to delegate. Why hiring...

In this episode, I sit down with Christina Luna, an astrological mentor, sustainable business guide, and artist, to explore how cycles impact our energy, decision-making, and authenticity—especially in business. We discuss: The end of a 16-year cycle & the start of a new 20-year era—how this shift is impacting us all. Why authenticity is the key to success moving forward and how to embrace you...

Welcome to the Successful Events Podcast! After weeks of rebranding and refining my vision, I’m back with a new focus and even deeper insights to help you host events that align with your purpose, energy, and business goals. In this episode, I’m sharing: Why I rebranded and how this shift reflects my approach to event strategy. What makes this podcast unique and why it’s a must-listen for event ho...

Welcome to the final episode of Imperfectly Impactful as we prepare for an exciting rebrand in February! In this special episode, I reflect on the lessons of 2024, share my word for 2025—"worthy"—and discuss how embodying worthiness will shape my goals and decisions this year. Tune in as I outline: Why "worthy" was chosen as my guiding word. Key personal and business goal overview. Insights into a...

I'm back for a few short episodes before some updates occur. So what is in store for you this episode? I take a heartfelt look back at 2024—a year filled with growth, challenges, and unforgettable celebrations. I’m sharing my biggest lessons from overcoming obstacles, the wins that made it all worthwhile, and how these experiences are shaping my vision for the future. Here’s what I’m diving into:...

Reflect, rejuvenate, & reignite. When the event is over, what do you do next? What do you need to make sure is in place during the planning process to set you up for success post event? Listen in to the FINAL episode of the Event Road Map series focusing on the crucial steps you need to take once your event is over. Key Takeaways: 1. Reflect on the event while it is still fresh. 2. Take time t...

I don't know about you, but I used to be constantly frustrated or disappointed in myself and others. And for the longest time, I really had no idea why. In this episode, I dive into the weight we put on ourselves by having rigid expectations. You may have heard this a multitude of times and that is why I am sharing three more recent experiences where having an expectation caused a negative reactio...

Welcome to stage four of the event planning road map series all focused on EXECUTION of your event! Think, contingency plans, protecting your energy, & what you need to have in place to make sure your day/s of event are successful. Key Takeaways: 1. Events reflect the energy & presence of the host. 2. Contracts are crucial in ensuring vendor, sponsor, & speaker accountability. 3. Havin...

Today, we celebrate 100 EPISODES of Imperfectly Impactful!!!! I am in awe & shock that a hundred episodes have been released on this podcast. And who better to celebrate with than the CELEBRATION QUEEN herself, Taylor Murphy! I don't know about any of you, but I struggle to celebrate my wins big & small. Taylor is the one who usually asks, "So, how are you celebrating??" 😂 Listen in to ce...

Whether you are an entrepreneur, work for a corporation, or a stay at home parent, this episode is for you! We welcome Dr. Camilla Moore to the show as she shares her journey from being a chiropractor to a coach specializing in stress management and burnout. We dive into understanding one's emotions, the role of mindfulness, the necessity of communication in establishing boundaries for well-being,...

Welcome to Part 2 of the planning stage in the event road map. This episode dives into how to gain visibility for your event, marketing strategies & tactics, AND the importance of communication. I also could not forget to mention how Self-care is key throughout the entire event road map & how to incorporate this daily/weekly. Checkout our NEW Youtube Channel for Imperfectly Impactful. NEW...

You are in for a treat! Be ready for some sarcasm, with a hint of perfectionism & strategy. Join myself & Alicia James, a multi-passionate entrepreneur, as she shares her journey embracing authenticity and transforming into the woman she is today. Our conversation delves into Alicia's experience right out of college through her transition to full time entrepreneurship and the importance of...