Root to Rising

On this episode of Root to Rising, host Christine Hummel talks with Katherine (University of Kentucky) and MacKenna (Ole Miss) about making bold college choices, building real confidence, and sustaining long-distance relationships. They unpack the pressure of prestige and acceptance rates, why “fit over prestige” wins, how competitive dance shaped discipline, and practical strategies for communicating needs in love and friendship. Katherine shares her journey overcoming anorexia and the role of therapy and community in healing. Christine offers her simple 5-Rule decision framework to de-dramatize big choices. Perfect for high-school seniors, college students, and anyone navigating major life pivots.Episode SummaryTwo college women share how they chose fit over prestige, built real confidence (even on days it’s “faked”), navigated competitive dance cultures, healed after hardship, and made long-distance love work. Christine adds a simple decision framework—the “5-Rule”—you can use for any big life choice.Key TakeawaysFit > prestige. Acceptance rates don’t define you; daily environment does.Confidence is built. Boundaries, practice—and yes, sometimes “faking it” until your body remembers.Ask for help early. Therapy and community are strength multipliers.Teams build leaders. Dance/sports = discipline, feedback tolerance, execution.Treat choices like leases, not mortgages. Iterate as you learn.Long-distance works with systems. Communicate needs, celebrate each other’s wins, keep independent lives healthy.Quotes“Fake confidence is still confidence. Sometimes it gets you in the room—and you figure the rest out.” —MacKenna“I didn’t want to follow the trend. I wanted to prove I could do different.” —Katherine“It’s a lease, not a mortgage. You can change paths without shame.” —Christine

Purpose Over Pressure — How A Clemson Senior Found Her Why💫 Episode SummaryIn this week’s inspiring episode, host Christine Hummel sits down with Elle Thomas, a 20-year-old senior at Clemson University studying Biomedical Engineering. Elle’s story is a masterclass in courage, pivoting, and finding purpose — from graduating high school early to changing her entire career path after a powerful personal experience.What happens when the “plan” no longer lights your fire?Elle shares how she went from chasing law school dreams to preparing for the MCAT and pursuing medicine — and why listening to your gut is sometimes the bravest move of all.This episode reminds every woman — from high schoolers to executives — that confidence isn’t built overnight. It’s built through small acts of courage, daily self-talk, and the grace to start over.🔑 What You’ll HearFinding Purpose: Why Elle chose engineering without wanting to be an engineer — and how that decision gave her freedom.The Pivot Moment: The emotional family event that changed her entire direction and inspired her move toward medicine.Pushing Through Pushback: How Elle navigates the comments and doubts that women in STEM — especially aspiring doctors — still hear today.Confidence 101: Elle’s unique take on self-talk, being your own best friend, and the power of saying yes to opportunities.Reputation + Brand: Christine and Elle unpack how your “personal brand” starts in high school — and how every interaction builds (or breaks) it.Female Support vs. Competition: A candid conversation on why women must champion each other instead of compete.Purpose > Perfection: The simple mindset shift that keeps Elle grounded while balancing pressure, expectations, and future goals.💬 Memorable Quotes“If I can make even one person feel the gratitude I felt for my family’s doctor — that’s the kind of career I want.” — Elle Thomas“No one thinks about you as much as you think about you. So stop holding yourself back.” — Elle Thomas“We’re all writing our own definition of success. There isn’t one version — and that’s the beauty of it.” — Christine Hummel🌱 Christine’s Takeaway“Elle reminds us that purpose isn’t something you stumble into — it’s something you build through curiosity, courage, and consistency. Whether you’re 20 or 60, there’s no ‘too late’ or ‘too early’ to start following what fuels you.”📚 Episode ResourcesFollow Root to Rising on Instagram for daily inspiration.Connect with host Christine Hummel on LinkedIn.Subscribe and leave a 5-star review if this episode moved you — it helps other women find our growing community.

🎙️ Episode OverviewIn this inspiring conversation, Christine sits down with Phyllis, a pharmacist, mother, grandmother, and lifelong learner who has redefined success through every season of life. From growing up during an era that told women “you can’t,” to leading in corporate healthcare and mentoring others, Phyllis’s story is a masterclass in resilience, reinvention, and courage.They discuss:Breaking barriers in male-dominated fieldsBuilding confidence when you’re told “no”Navigating work, motherhood, and identity through changing erasThe power of mentors, networks, and saying yes before you’re ready💡 Key Takeaways1. Believe in your potential, even when others don’t.As a teen, Phyllis was told women couldn’t be physicians — a comment that altered her path. Her story reminds us how powerful a single voice of doubt can be, and how reclaiming that narrative is part of every woman’s journey.2. Your “brand” is who you already are.Christine points out that when Phyllis lists her roles — wife, mother, friend, consultant, volunteer — she’s defining her brand through authenticity and purpose.3. Ambition is not arrogance.Phyllis shares how her drive for “the next job” shaped her unconventional career in pharmacy, management, and corporate leadership — a call for women to pursue growth without apology.4. Networking isn’t luck — it’s intentional connection.From a chemistry teacher’s encouragement to mentors who opened doors, Phyllis’s success is built on relationships she nurtured with honesty, curiosity, and gratitude.5. Work-life balance doesn’t exist — but work-life management does.She reflects on motherhood, guilt, and the myth of balance, offering practical wisdom: “Some weeks you’re all in at work; some weeks you’re all in at home. Over time, it balances out.”6. Confidence comes from action, not perfection.Phyllis urges young women to put themselves in uncomfortable spaces — academic, social, or professional — because discomfort is where growth lives.7. Don’t let one person define your path.The words that once derailed her dream of medicine became her greatest lesson: never let someone outside of you talk you out of your potential.👩‍💼 Generational WisdomWith three daughters now navigating careers and motherhood, Phyllis brings perspective on how the challenges facing young women today — social media pressure, competitive job markets, and comparison culture — echo old limitations in new forms. Her advice:“Find what motivates you, stay true to it, and surround yourself with people who lift you up — not limit you.”🌻 Christine’s ReflectionChristine connects Phyllis’ journey to the heart of the Root to Rising mission — creating a space for women to share stories that teach, heal, and empower. “Phyllis’s courage to be open, to shift directions, and to keep showing up — that’s what rising looks like,” Christine says.🧭 Quotable Moments“It’s not about if you’ll go to college — it’s where you’ll go.”“I didn’t have a brand… until I realized my life was my brand.”“You need a cheerleader. You need someone who believes in you even when you don’t.”“Don’t chase balance. Chase meaning.”“Be uncomfortable. That’s when you grow.”

In this energizing conversation, host Christine Hummel and guest Melanie Hart (Director, Market Access & Health Economics in biotech) unpack the real work of confidence: seeking mentors, taking imperfect action, and navigating cultural expectations without losing yourself. They get candid about turning down “dream” jobs, mom-guilt, male-dominated rooms, and the myth of balance — replacing it with a more honest metric: the mean of your presence over time. You’ll leave with scripts, mindset shifts, and practical moves to grow your network IRL and online.Featured guestMelanie Hart — Biotech market access leader focused on patient access, outcomes, and health economics. Former multi-sport athlete (yes, rugby), bonus mom, and champion of strategic adaptability and authentic leadership.Key takeawaysBrave beats perfect. Apply before you feel 100% qualified. Ship before it’s flawless.Don’t argue for your limitations. Notice when your “no” is driven by guilt or optics, not facts.Measure the mean. You won’t “balance” every day; aim for a healthy average over time.Network on two fronts. Master both IRL and virtual relationship-building.Mentors ≠ luxury — they’re leverage. Seek mentors, sponsors, and allies early; they’re your cheat codes.Have a voice in the room. Assertive + respectful beats silent + resentful.Build a diverse skill stack. Pair domain expertise with data, communication, and leadership reps.Own your motivators. Purpose is personal; stop outsourcing your definition of “enough.”Try-it-this-week (micro-moves)The 5-minute follow-up: After any talk/panel, introduce yourself and send a same-day thank-you email with one specific takeaway + one ask.Three & Three Network: Identify 3 internal and 3 external people who give you energy. Touch base monthly.Confidence file: Keep a private note with wins, feedback, and moments you were brave. Re-read before interviews or big meetings.“Johnny” script: “I’m not available for that. Let’s focus on the work.” (Deliver once, evenly, then move on.)Memorable quotes“Don’t argue for your limitations in your head.” — Mel“Brave, not perfect.” — Theme echoed throughout“Aim for the mean, not the perfect day.” — Christine“Mentors, sponsors, allies — your career cheat codes.” — Mel“Have a voice. Wallflowers don’t get invited to the table.” — MelResources mentionedTED Talk: “Brave, Not Perfect” by Reshma Saujani (12 minutes)Concept: Strategic adaptability — align values, words, and actions while reading the room.

Root to Rising PodcastGraduating, Moving, Courage, and Thriving – Ellie & Alex’s Post-College JourneyHosted by: Christine Hummel🎙️ Episode OverviewWhat does it really feel like to graduate college, pack up your life, and start fresh in a brand-new city? In this episode, Christine sits down with two recent University of Alabama graduates — Alex (originally from California) and Ellie (from Chicago) — who both just made the leap to Nashville.They open up about:Why they chose to attend college out of state (and what it taught them about courage).The real struggles of finding a first job in today’s market.What it’s like balancing fear, independence, and growth in your early 20s.The surprising ways networking and chance encounters can change your career path overnight.This is an honest, funny, and heartfelt conversation for anyone navigating post-grad life — or mentoring those who are.💡 What You’ll LearnConfidence in big moves: How Alex found a sign to move across the country — and why her mom’s tough love kept her on track.Independence 101: Why Ellie says leaving your hometown is the first big test of adulthood.Coping with uncertainty: Lessons on resilience when things don’t go as planned.Breaking into careers: The “who you know vs. what you know” debate in today’s job hunt.Networking that works: Why saying “yes” (to coffee, clubs, run groups, or even dermatology appointments!) can unlock unexpected opportunities.✨ Memorable Quotes“You only get one shot to move out of your hometown — take it.” – Alex“Your first job doesn’t have to be forever. It just has to be a start.” – Ellie“Be curious, be curious, be curious.” – Christine“What’s the worst that can happen? They say no.” – All three, in different ways👩‍🎓 Who This Episode is ForCollege students considering out-of-state schoolsSeniors stressing about graduation and “what’s next”Parents learning how to support independenceMentors and leaders guiding the next generation of women🔑 Takeaways for Rising WomenStart early — but don’t panic. Careers unfold at their own pace.Say yes more often. Each “yes” builds skills, connections, or both.Define your personal brand. Have a 30-second intro ready at all times.Balance hustle with joy. College (and your early 20s) is about experiences and preparation.Patience pays off. The right opportunities often come when you least expect them.📌 Episode ResourcesFollow Christine Hummel on LinkedIn for mentorship insightsExplore Nashville networking clubs and young professional groupsConnect with Root to Rising for upcoming episodes👉 Listen now and share this episode with a rising woman in your life who’s navigating her first big leap.

Root to Rising with Christine HummelEp. 3 — “Confidence Isn’t Magic: Ream Qato on Owning Your Voice, Career Pivots, and Motherhood”Episode snapshotChristine sits down with Ream Qato—Chicago-born Palestinian American, pharmacist (PharmD), Booth MBA, market-access leader, and mom of three—about building confidence the unglamorous way (reps, not magic), career pivots from chemistry to pharmacy to business, speaking up when you’re the only woman in the room, and designing a life by your own values. Ream also shares her long-term mission: expanding access to rare/orphan drugs in emerging markets, especially the Middle East.Key takeawaysConfidence is a skill, not a trait. Ream “pinched herself” to speak up the first few times—then it became second nature.Say it before someone else does. Over-editing your ideas costs you influence.Design your balance by the week, not the day. Think average over time rather than perfect daily equilibrium.Own your values. Live by your standards, not others’ expectations—at work, at home, and in your community.Don’t pre-decide for other women. Offer opportunities; let them choose.Purpose fuels perseverance. Ream’s North Star: bringing rare-disease therapies to new regions that can support access but are often overlooked.Chapters & timestamps00:00 Welcome & purpose of Root to Rising00:35 Meet Ream: South Side roots, identity, and growth01:45 College path: UChicago chemistry → PharmD (UIC) vs. PhD decision at the kitchen table03:30 From clinician to MBA: spotting system gaps and moving into market access06:03 Role models: educator mom, academic family, and the power of example09:12 Advice for grads: reflect, test, align enjoyment with strengths12:21 Building confidence: speaking up as the only hijabi/Muslim woman in the room14:59 Overthinking vs. influence: say it sooner18:12 When others get credit for your unsaid idea—what to do next21:03 Motherhood & work: pressure, judgment, and choosing what works for your family28:51 Rethinking “work-life balance”: aim for the weekly average31:08 Loss, priorities, and scheduling with intention33:13 Boundaries at work: you can say no without apology34:53 Big goals: expanding rare/orphan access in emerging markets; representation in leadership37:22 Why Ream wears hijab: identity, accountability, and values39:49 Words for younger women: “Don’t take no” & live by your value set41:16 Close & next stepsMemorable quotes“Confidence came after the reps. I had to pinch myself to speak up the first few times.” — Ream“Offer the opportunity—don’t decide for her.” — Christine“Live life by your own value set, not the values others put on you.” — Ream (advice from her father)Try this: confidence reps you can do this weekSpeak first once per meeting. Make a clarifying point or frame the goal.Two-minute rule. If you’ve held a point for 2 minutes, share it.Weekly balance check. Plan your average: one day heavy work, another heavy family—on purpose.Opportunity audit. List one opportunity you’re qualified for but haven’t asked about—then ask.

What do you do when someone tells you “you’re not ready” or “you can’t do it”?For Kristina Sullivan, those words became fuel.In this episode, host Christine Hummel sits down with Kristina—her longtime friend, colleague, and mentor—to unpack the real, messy, and powerful truth about building a career as a woman in a male-dominated industry.Together, they cover:🎯 Why you don’t need a perfect plan out of college (but you do need to be scrappy).💡 How to figure out what lights you up—and pair it with the motivators that actually drive you.🚀 Turning “no” and doubt into confidence, resilience, and career-defining leaps.🤝 Why intentional networking and mentorship aren’t optional—they’re everything.🌱 The honest truth about women supporting (and sometimes competing with) women.This is a conversation about courage, pivots, and the lessons we wish we had in our 20s. Whether you’re just starting out or looking for your next chapter, Kristina’s story will remind you: the path isn’t perfect, but it’s yours to create.Memorable Quotes“Being uncomfortable isn’t a bad thing—it’s where growth happens.” – Kristina Sullivan“You don’t always need a perfect plan. Sometimes, you just need to be scrappy.” – Kristina Sullivan“What lights you up? Pair that with your motivators, and you’ll find your direction.” – Christine Hummel

Episode Summary: In the very first episode of Root to Rising, Christine Hummel sits down with her daughter, Ellie Ternes, and Ellie’s best friend, Megan Hutson, for a raw and empowering conversation about confidence, choices, and finding your path after college. From “fake it till you make it” to the floating rock mentality, they share unfiltered insights on navigating uncertainty, breaking free from expectations, and embracing life’s messy middle.🌱 Show NotesRoot to Rising Podcast – Episode 1: Confidence, Choices, and the Messy Middle with Ellie Ternes & Megan HutsonWelcome to the first full episode of Root to Rising with Christine Hummel—a podcast created to go beyond the highlight reels and share real stories that help women rise with courage and clarity.Christine kicks off the show with two very special guests: her daughter Ellie Ternes and Ellie’s lifelong friend Megan Hutson. Together, they open up about the messy but meaningful transition from college to career, tackling uncertainty, and building authentic confidence along the way.In this episode, you’ll hear:The one-year “deal” Christine made with Ellie to push her beyond her hometown comfort zone.Megan’s journey from psychology to marketing—and why her cousin’s beer-marketing career might be the dream.The role sororities, clubs, and business fraternities in shaping their confidence and career direction.How to build confidence when you feel unsure—fake it till you make it, remember everyone’s scared too, and lean into failure as a teacher.The floating rock mentality—a surprisingly grounding way to keep life in perspective.Why YOLO and “life goes on” aren’t clichés but confidence boosters.Honest reflections on cultural, family, and religious expectations—and how to choose your own path despite outside pressures.Why listen:Whether you’re a college student, a young professional, or simply someone rethinking what confidence looks like in your own life, this conversation will inspire you to take risks, embrace imperfection, and rise stronger from every messy middle moment.🎧 Tune in now and start building the confidence to make choices that are fully your own.

Episode Summary: Root to Rising — Preview EpisodeWelcome to Root to Rising, the podcast for anyone who’s ready to move beyond the picture-perfect highlight reels and dive into the real story of growth, grit, and becoming.Host Christine Hummel introduces the heart behind this new podcast: an honest space to explore the “messy, magical middle” of success — the parts no one posts on Instagram. Through real conversations with women who turned “What am I going to do?” into “Watch me go,” listeners will find inspiration, community, and courage to rise stronger, dream bigger, and unapologetically be themselves.Christine reminds us that nobody has it all figured out — and you don’t have to either. This is the podcast she wishes she had in college, built to help you navigate uncertainty and step into your unstoppable potential.First episodes are coming soon, including:The College WishFrom Uncertain to UnstoppableThe Messy Middle📌 Podcast Show Notes (Preview Episode)Episode Title: Coming Soon — Root to Rising with Christine HummelWhat You’ll Hear in This Preview:Why Root to Rising was createdChristine’s mission to share unfiltered, real-life stories of women on their way upA reminder that you don’t need it all figured out (spoiler: no one does!)Sneak peek of upcoming episodes and themesAbout the Show:Root to Rising is where we leave the filters behind and get real about the journey from uncertain to unstoppable. Hosted by Christine Hummel, each episode features powerful stories, fresh inspiration, and honest conversations to help you rise stronger and boldly step into the life you’ve been dreaming about.✨ Episodes drop soon! Subscribe now so you don’t miss the launch.