Rise and Shine

In this episode of Rise and Shine, I’m talking with Megan Geyer, owner of Southern Magnolia Home Inspection. Megan shares her journey of building a business that works for her life, not the other way around. We dive into: Building a business to match your personal priorities – creating a career that supports your life, not the other way around. When to advocate and when to accept for the kids – choosing your battles and helping kids navigate challenges. How we are teaching our kids today to handle what life throws at them tomorrow – lessons in resilience, problem-solving, and independence. What working motherhood is teaching our kids – leading by example and showing them how to balance ambition with values. Whether you’re a working parent, entrepreneur, or someone trying to find balance, Megan’s insights will leave you inspired and empowered to design a life and career that truly fit your values. ✨ Listen now and discover how to align your work and life without compromise.   Connect with Megan and learn more about her business Southern Magnolia Home Inspections: https://southernmagnoliainspections.com/ Listen to Megan's past episode: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5F8jAhgpSwwYF0nHVxjYwO?si=7adb374bd858410f Thank you so much for listening to today’s conversation with Megan Geyer. I hope you walked away with some ideas and inspiration for how to build your life and your business on your own terms—and how to guide your kids with intention along the way. If this episode resonated with you, I’d love your help spreading the message. Leave a comment, share this episode with a friend, or give it a like—every little bit helps us reach more people who could benefit from these insights. And don’t forget, you can subscribe to Rise and Shine so you never miss an episode filled with stories, strategies, and inspiration to help you live a more aligned, empowered life. Thank you for being part of this community, and I’ll see you in the next episode!   Learn more about Abby at www.abbycornelius.com  

Do you ever feel like you’re talking, but no one is really listening? In this episode of Rise and Shine, we break down the 3 Cs of communication—Clear, Concise, and Confident—and show you how to use them to make sure your voice is heard, every time. Whether you’re leading a team, speaking in meetings, or simply trying to get your point across with your family, mastering these three principles will help you: Speak with clarity so your message is understood Keep it concise so you don’t lose attention Communicate with confidence so people take you seriously I’ll share practical tips and real-life examples to help you stop over-explaining, cut the fluff, and step into your full voice. By the end of this episode, you’ll have the tools to be heard, be understood, and make an impact in any conversation. Tune in and learn how to speak with intention—and get the results you want.  Resources & Links: Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abbycornelius/ Learn more at riseandshinepodcast.com

It’s not just what you know, it’s who you know. Looking back at my career, almost every major opportunity—from my first internship to my current role—was made possible through referrals, relationships, and networking. Your network won’t do the work for you, but it will get you in the door. And in today’s world, that door is everything. In this episode of Rise and Shine, I share: My own career journey shaped by referrals and relationships Why networking is more than just small talk or LinkedIn connections Practical ways to build and nurture authentic relationships How to leverage your network during career shifts or when climbing the ladder A simple challenge to help you reconnect with people in your circle this week Key takeaway: Your skills and grit matter—but your relationships are the accelerators that open doors to new opportunities. 👉 Resources & Links: Connect with me on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/abbycornelius/ Learn more at riseandshinepodcast.com 🎧 Tune in now to learn how to make your network your greatest career asset.

Motherhood doesn’t come with a one-size-fits-all manual — and that’s exactly what we’re diving into in this episode of Rise and Shine. I’m joined by Abbie Mirata for an honest, funny, and heart-filled conversation about what it means to be a mom in our own way. We talk about: Why we’re not afraid to talk to our kids like real people How loving big doesn’t always mean being at every single event The lessons our kids learn from seeing us chase both motherhood and careers Letting go of guilt and embracing the version of motherhood that works for you If you’ve ever felt like you don’t fit the mold of what a “good mom” is supposed to look like, this episode will remind you — there’s more than one way to do it, and your way is exactly right. Connect with Abbie Mirata on LinkedIn.  Explore The Intrapreanuer Project Retreat: Booking now for Spring 2026.  If you enjoyed this episode, please like, follow, and subscribe to the show so you don’t miss what’s coming next!   Learn more about Abby Cornelius @ www.abbycornelius.com  

Episode 106 – Focused as a Bee with Sydney & Jones Loflin What if the secret to being more productive—and less stressed—was already modeled in nature? In this episode, I’m joined by the dynamic father-daughter duo Sydney and Jones Loflin, authors of the new book Focused as a Bee. Together, we explore the 6 permissions we can learn from bees to help us manage our time, energy, and focus with more purpose and less pressure. This conversation will inspire you to rethink what productivity really looks like and give yourself the space to work and live with more clarity. In this episode, we discuss: Why giving yourself permission is essential to focus What bees can teach us about roles, rest, and routines How to move from overwhelmed to intentional The surprising link between productivity and boundaries 🐝 Ready to get focused (like a bee)? Connect with Jones and Sydney and grab their book at: https://jonesloflin.com/faab TAKE THE "HOW FOCUSED ARE YOU?" QUIZ: https://jonesloflin.com/faabquiz 👉 If you enjoyed this episode, please like, follow, and subscribe to the show so you don’t miss what’s coming next!

In this episode of Rise and Shine, Abby sits down with Jenna Skuza to talk about what it really looks like to grow—both as a professional and as a person. From embracing creativity as a counterbalance to a logic-heavy career, to the importance of reflecting on wins and losses alike, Jenna brings honest insight into the highs, lows, and in-betweens of leadership. Together, they explore why giving yourself space to process is essential, and how it’s possible to be both a strong leader and a work-in-progress. If you’ve ever felt like growth is stretching you in all directions, this conversation is your reminder that you're not alone—and that it’s all part of the rise.   Want to connect with Jenna Skuza - find her on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenna-skuza/ Want to connect with Abby Cornelius - email her at abby@theriseandshinepodcast.com   Learn more at www.abbycornelius.com. If you enjoyed today’s episode, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share it with a friend who might need it too. Your support means the world and helps the show reach even more amazing listeners like you!

There are moments that make us. Moments that change our path and challenge us to decide who we are and who we want to be.  Today's guest, Brook Jennings, shares one of her pivotal moments when she found her strength and how she used that as a time to turn setbacks in life into meaningful comebacks.  She shares how everyday she chooses joy and fights for that joy and happiness despite what life brings her way. I love this episode for a chance to share a heartfelt conversation with a friend but also as a reminder that we all have the ability to write our story and choose the ending.    Connect with Brook on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brook-jennings-65139083/ Did you like today’s episode? If so, leave a review and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss future episodes. Share with a friend and follow along on social media too!  FOLLOW ON LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abbycornelius/ VISIT WEBSITE: www.abbycornelius.com

We all face moments when our confidence takes a hit. Maybe you just received tough news, you're gearing up for a big interview, or you’re about to present at work. Whatever the situation, a confidence boost is within reach! In this episode of Rise and Shine, I’m sharing 6 powerful tips to help you regain your confidence and show up as your best self. From the magic of practice and the importance of positive self-talk to leaning on your support system, practicing self-care, sharing wisely, and taking action — these strategies will have you standing taller in no time. Need a personal hype girl? I’ve got you! Email me at abby@theriseandshinepodcast.com — I’ll gladly cheer you on! 🎧 Loved today’s episode? Please like, review, and share! Your support means the world and helps us reach even more women ready to rise and shine.

Rise and Shine is no longer JUST for Women in Homebuilding! The podcast is taking a turn and trusting my gut and opening up Rise and Shine to more topics, more stories and hopefully more impact. This is the first episode where I share a pivotal moment in my life. The moment I was told "You can't have your own kids." And how changing the path not the dream has made all the difference. It's a story of sadness, hope restored and tenacity.  The NEW Rise and Shine brings you real life stories, actionable tips, and practical advice to help you rise above the day to day chaos, reclaim your confidence, and shine your brightest. Special thanks to Shady Grove Fertility.  For restoring my hope, creating a plan and give my husband I our two beautiful daughters.  If you have a topic, question or guest suggestion email abby@theriseandshinepodcast.com. Did you like today's episode? If so please like, review and share! 

Hard Doesn’t Mean Impossible: Creating Your Own Path with Kerri Paulino  Success isn’t a straight line—it’s a winding road filled with challenges, opportunities, and moments that test your resilience. In this episode, I sit down with Kerri Paulino, Division President at Meritage Homes, to talk about her incredible journey from intern to executive. Kerri didn’t follow a traditional career path—she zig-zagged her way to the top by embracing curiosity, risk-taking, cross-training, and continuous learning. She shares how manifesting opportunities, building strong connections, and stepping outside her comfort zone helped her rise through the ranks. In This Episode, We Discuss: ✅ How to take bold risks and create your own opportunities ✅ The power of curiosity and continuous learning in career growth ✅ Why cross-training and expanding your skill set can set you apart ✅ The importance of building strong relationships and leveraging connections ✅ The realities of leadership, resilience, and navigating challenges If you’ve ever wondered how to break through career barriers and carve your own path, this episode is for you! Connect with Kerri Paulino 📧 Email: kerri.paulino@meritagehomes.com Let’s Connect! If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs to hear it! Tag me and let me know your biggest takeaway.   

Today marks the 100th episode and I'm so grateful for the journey, connections and impact that this show has had and it's all thanks to you! This episode is a little different. This is a review of a book I recently read and I wish I had read it YEARS AGO! It shares four keys to building an incredible culture on your team.  We will review the 4 Fish Philosophys from the Book Fish! by Stephen Lundin. Choose Your Attitude Have Fun Make Their Day Be There   This is your playbook for improving your culture and boosting morale and results of yourself and your team. Did you like today’s episode? If so, leave a review and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss future episodes. Share with a friend and follow along on social media too!  FOLLOW ON LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abbycornelius/ VISIT WEBSITE: www.abbycornelius.com

Every year brings it's own set of obstacles and opporutnities. 2024 took me on a journey. This episode I share the 5 BIG lessons I learned in 2024. Create a plan but hold it loosely. When it comes to a fullfilling career it needs to hit three buckets - Job/Industry/People. - Abbie Mirata Be Brave, Don't Settle - Amy O'Connor You can be both! Make your health a priority, always.  I share how these lessons impacted my path in 2024 and defined where I am today.  What lessons did 2024 teach you? Did you like today’s episode? If so, leave a review and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss future episodes. Share with a friend and follow along on social media too!  FOLLOW ON LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abbycornelius/ www.abbycornelius.com   

Let's have some real talk about the behind the scene challenges of growing your family while also growing your career. Diana Wallace, Owner of Scout, and I share our personal expeirences of facing infertility, pregnancy, leave and raising babies and the impacts this had both personally and professionally. If you are a women exploring getting pregnant - tune to learn form our mistakes! If you are currently pregnant tune in to learn about what questions to ask in regard to leave and what to do when you return to work. If you are a working momma who is trying to balance it all tune in to learn that you are not alone! And if you are an employer tune in for a sneak peak into what your employees are facing and how you may be able to support them through this season to increase retention and gain loyal long term employees. If you want to connect with Diana and to learn more about what she does with Scout visit. : www.scoutthesale.com. Did you like today’s episode? If so, leave a review and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss future episodes. Share with a friend and follow along on social media too! FOLLOW ON LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abbycornelius/

What if I told you there was one magic pill that would grant you and your team 31% more productivity, 37% more sales, 19% more accuracy and decreased turnover as the icing on the cake? Would you take that pill? What if I told you that pill is called happiness. Tune in to today's episode so you can hear how you can build a habit of happiness and leverage that to improve your teams performance.   Did you like today’s episode? If so, leave a review and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss future episodes. Share with a friend and follow along on social media too! FOLLOW ON LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abbycornelius/ VISIT WEBSITE: www.abbycornelius.com  

Let's have a heart to heart about this all to popular phrase floating around today, imposter syndrome. When we were kids we pretended we were doctors, princesses or fire fighters because we were trying on who we want to be when we grow up. We call it playing make believe.  As teenagers when we tried a new style of clothes or a new friend group and we were called "posers". But in reality we were still just trying to figure out who we wanted to be. As adults we sometimes step into professional roles or situations where we feel uncomfortable and where we feel like we have to fake it till we make it and we call this feeling imposter syndrome.  But we are still just trying to figure out who we want to be when we grow up even if we are middle aged. Tune in to today's episode of Rise and Shine to reframe what imposter syndrome really means and why being a poser is a good thing.  Did you like today’s episode? If so, leave a review and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss future episodes. Share with a friend and follow along on social media too! FOLLOW ON LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abbycornelius/ VISIT WEBSITE: www.abbycornelius.com  

I love pie and given the chance I will always want another slice. It's the same in sales. If I could get one more sale, why wouldn't I go for it!  Today's episode walks you through the 5 ways you can get more pie, I mean sales! 1. Differentiate yourself from your competitors. 2. Create memorable experiences your customers will share. 3. Always be booking your next appointment (thought I was gonna say closing didn't you) 4. Frequent and fast follow up. 5. Treat your buyers like GOLD!  Tune in for a few tips on how you can maximize your conversion, increase your value and generate more referrals!  Did you like today’s episode? If so, leave a review and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss future episodes. Share with a friend and follow along on social media too! FOLLOW ON LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abbycornelius/ VISIT WEBSITE: www.abbycornelius.com  

40% of the workforce is set to retire in the next 5-8 years. What that means is our workforce is shifting and therefore so must our leadership. Today's episode is about the skills needed to lead the modern workforce. The top 5 things people are looking for in an employer is.. 1. Trust 2. Growth and Development 3. Impact 4. Collaboration 5. Appreciation In order to provide that you need to have a variety of skills as a leader. There are 6 hats I think a Modern Leader needs to wear. In this episode I dig into each of these hats. When you need to wear them and how to build your skills in that area. The 6 Hats a Modern Leader must wear. 1. Manager 2. Leader 3. Coach 4. Trainer 5. Cheerleader 6. Referee Did you like today’s episode? If so, leave a review and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss future episodes. Share with a friend and follow along on social media too!  FOLLOW ON LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abbycornelius/ VISIT WEBSITE: www.abbycornelius.com

Today's guest, Chelsea Timmons, shares HER STORY on how she got into homebuilding along with how she has embraced blending and blurring the lines between her personal and professional life.  Being a working parent comes with challenges. Sometimes we work so hard keep our personal lives at home and our professional lives at work. But in those moments we aren't showing up whole or authentically in either place. Chelsea shares how she has blurred the lines and is embracing ALL the sides of her. We also dig into chasing our passions, the word paradox and a reminder that we each have to follow our heart and carve our own path for true success.  Connect with Chelsea here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-timmons-585a0464/ Did you like today’s episode? If so, leave a review and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss future episodes. Share with a friend and follow along on social media too! FOLLOW ON LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abbycornelius/ VISIT WEBSITE: www.abbycornelius.com  

Today I chat about riding the "New Role Roller Coaster" and how great it feels to get to other side. The secret sauce to getting to the other side is more time and effort in the right places. I think I finally got to the other side and I went from a grind to gratitude.  We have things we "have to do" but they allow us to "get to do" other amazing things. Today I dig into some of the have to's in my world and what they allow me to get to do.   Did you like today’s episode? If so, leave a review and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss future episodes. Share with a friend and follow along on social media too!  FOLLOW ON LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abbycornelius/ VISIT WEBSITE: www.abbycornelius.com

You write the story, we'll build the set! This should be every builders motto. We are selling more than a house. We are selling the set where families write their stories.  On today's episode of Rise and Shine I rename every room of my house based on what that room means to me. I encourage everyone selling today to become the director. Help your buyers write their story. Who is living where and what are they doing? How could they rename the floorplan based on their unique families. How will this home be lived in today and in the years to come. Did you like today’s episode? If so, leave a review and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss future episodes. Share with a friend and follow along on social media too!  FOLLOW ON LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abbycornelius/ VISIT WEBSITE: www.abbycornelius.com