Root to Rising

Christine
  • 5.0 (10)
  • CAREERS

Root to Rising isn’t just a podcast—it’s a call to every woman ready to step into her own story. Hosted by Christine Hummel, this unfiltered, soul-stirring series takes you inside the real lives of women who’ve dared to pivot, rebuild, and rise. From classrooms, to boardrooms, to fresh starts, heartbreaks to breakthroughs, these are the raw conversations you didn’t know you needed—about courage, risk, resilience, and finding your true direction. Christine sits down with trailblazers, dream-chasers, and everyday women with extraordinary lessons, giving you the mindset shifts, practical tools, and fierce motivation to grow where you’re planted and reach higher than you thought possible. Whether you’re launching your first career move, rewriting your next chapter, or searching for that spark again—Root to Rising will meet you where you are and inspire you to rise into the woman you’re meant to become.

  1. 5H AGO

    Guest Host Rory Latori: Reinvention with Jenna Cordaro

    SPECIAL GUEST CO-HOST: RORY LATORIA Guest hosting this special Root to Rising episode, continuing the meaningful conversations Christine Hummel built this platform around. How Grief, Reinvention & Self-Belief Can Completely Change Your LifeMost people don’t end up where they originally planned. For Jenna Cordaro, that meant navigating childhood loss, identity shifts, career pivots, imposter syndrome, and ultimately discovering a purpose bigger than she imagined. In this deeply honest conversation, guest host Rory Latoria sits down with Jenna to explore how adversity can become fuel—and why the hardest chapters of life often shape the strongest people. From losing her father at a young age to becoming a leader, mentor, and educator in the wellness space, Jenna shares the mindset shifts that helped her keep moving forward. In this episode: The childhood loss that changed Jenna’s life foreverWhy she became obsessed with understanding grief, healing, and human behaviorThe mentor who completely shifted her futureWhy your first career plan probably won’t be your lastOvercoming imposter syndrome and stepping into leadershipHow movement became a tool for healing—not just fitnessWhy teaching others became her true purposeThe role authenticity plays in confidence and successBuilding mental endurance through discomfortLearning to trust life’s pivots instead of resisting themIf you’ve ever felt behind, uncertain, or stuck between who you were and who you’re becoming—this conversation is for you. Because growth rarely happens in comfort.

    49 min

  2. MAY 7

    Against the Odds: Rising Without a Roadmap

    Episode OverviewIn this episode of Root to Rising, host Christine Hummel sits down with AJ, a corporate controller in the automotive industry, to unpack a powerful story of resilience, identity, and growth. AJ shares her journey of becoming a mother at 15, navigating life without a traditional education path, and rising through a male-dominated industry—all while learning how to balance ambition, self-worth, and personal well-being. This conversation is a raw and honest look at what it means to grow through adversity, redefine success, and ultimately choose yourself. Key Topics CoveredBecoming a mother at 15 and navigating early responsibilityBuilding a career without a traditional educationBreaking barriers as a Black woman in corporate AmericaThe importance of mentorship and representationLearning to balance ambition with self-careOvercoming societal expectations and stereotypesFinding identity beyond career and motherhoodWhy success doesn’t follow a “perfect path” Key Takeaways1. You don’t need a perfect plan to succeed AJ’s journey shows that saying “yes” and figuring things out along the way can be more powerful than waiting for the perfect opportunity. 2. Authenticity creates opportunity Her first job came from simply being honest and real—proof that connection matters more than credentials. 3. Hard work matters—but so does balance While hustle helped her succeed, she emphasizes the importance of not sacrificing your health or identity. 4. Representation builds confidence Seeing strong women in leadership helped AJ believe she could achieve more. 5. Your path is your own College, career, and life decisions don’t look the same for everyone—and that’s okay. 6. Give yourself grace Mistakes, setbacks, and uncertainty are part of growth—not signs of failure. Standout Quotes“I didn’t know what I was doing—but I said yes and figured it out.” “You don’t have to prove your worth to everyone else—just yourself.” “There has to be more to life than working yourself into the ground.” “Learn your kids. Don’t live your life through them.” Who This Episode Is ForYoung women navigating uncertaintyAnyone feeling behind in life or careerParents trying to guide their children’s futureProfessionals dealing with burnoutListeners looking for real, relatable life stories Actionable AdviceSay yes to opportunities—even if you’re not fully readyFind a mentor or someone you can learn fromPrioritize your well-being alongside your goalsBe honest about where you are in lifeStop comparing your path to others About the GuestAJ is a corporate controller in the automotive industry who built her career from the ground up. Without a traditional education path, she worked her way through the ranks while raising kids, becoming a strong voice for resilience, authenticity, and self-growth.

    46 min

  3. APR 20

    From Fatherhood to the Frontlines: Shaping the Next Generation of Women

    🧠 Episode SummaryIn this episode of Root to Rising, Christine sits down with national and international correspondent Robert Ray—someone who’s not only covered some of the world’s most intense moments, but also happens to be a father of four daughters. From war zones to natural disasters, Robert shares what it really takes to report under pressure—and how those experiences shape the way he shows up at home. This conversation goes beyond journalism, diving into perspective, resilience, parenting, and what it means to raise confident young women in a fast-changing world. 🔑 Key TopicsThe reality of modern journalism—and why the industry is evolving fastWhat it takes to report in high-pressure, real-world situationsSeparating truth from noise in the age of AI and social mediaWhy perspective is everything (and how to build it)Raising four daughters: confidence, independence, and real-world exposureThe importance of discomfort, failure, and resilience in growthCareer advice for the next generation entering mediaWhy long-term thinking matters more than quick success💬 Standout Quotes“The shortage isn’t opportunity—it’s responsibility. You have to build the pipeline.” (optional swap if using your earlier theme)“You can’t change the world overnight—it happens in the trenches, over decades.”“Your phone won’t give you purpose. Real life will.”“Everything ends—you just don’t know when. That’s what keeps you going.”“This isn’t just a job. It’s who you are when no one’s watching.”🎯 TakeawaysSuccess in any field requires long-term commitment, not short-term thinkingExposure to real-world challenges builds resilience faster than comfort ever willTrust must be earned—especially in today’s media landscapeParenting isn’t about protecting kids from discomfort—it’s about preparing them for itThe most important legacy isn’t your career—it’s who you are to others👤 About the GuestRobert Ray is a national and international correspondent with Fox Weather, reporting from the front lines of major weather events and global crises. With over 30 years in journalism, he brings a rare blend of field experience, storytelling, and perspective—both professionally and as a father of four daughters. 📌 Connect / Follow(https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-ray-61022824)

    1h 13m

  4. APR 9

    Sandy Loreaux on Life Transitions, Personal Evolution & Choosing the Right Partner

    ✨ Episode OverviewIn this episode, Christine sits down with Sandy Loreaux, a seasoned biopharma executive turned executive coach, to explore her journey through high-stakes leadership, personal evolution, and redefining success. From being known as a “crisis manager” in corporate America to stepping away at the peak of her career, Sandy shares powerful insights on confidence, leadership, motherhood, and making intentional life choices. 🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways1. The “Crisis Manager” Mindset Sandy built her reputation by stepping into high-pressure, complex business challenges.She embraced uncertainty with a “why not me?” attitude.Growth often comes from taking on roles others avoid.2. Leadership Rooted in Trust & Transparency Building strong teams starts with trust and authentic connection.Great leaders prioritize people—not just performance metrics.Hiring for team chemistry is just as important as hiring for skill.3. The Power of Team Dynamics Who you work with matters more than what you do.High-performing teams thrive on mutual respect, open communication, and shared purpose.Feedback culture is essential for both individual and team growth.Don’t wait until you feel “ready”—growth happens in the stretch.4. Work, Life, and Reality (Not “Balance”) There is no perfect balance—only constant recalibration.Success at home and work requires partnership, communication, and flexibility.Choosing the right life partner can significantly impact career trajectory.5. The Importance of Asking for What You Need Advocating for flexibility and support is critical—and often respected.Performance earns you the right to ask for accommodations.Vulnerability as a leader fosters stronger team relationships.💡 Notable Quotes“Why not me?”“You can’t live on beef jerky and coffee forever.”“Who you work with matters more than the job itself.”“Actions speak louder than words—especially in partnerships.”“Sometimes you just have to jump into the deep end and figure it out.”“You should never stop working on yourself.”🧠 Advice for ListenersFor Early Career Professionals: Show up with confidence—your presence matters.Speak clearly and assertively.Don’t underestimate the importance of professionalism and communication style.For Mid-Career Professionals: Stay open to feedback and continuous growth.Reevaluate what success means to you.Prioritize environments and people that energize you.For Everyone: It’s okay to change direction.Your definition of success can evolve.Build a life—not just a career..🔗 Connect with Sandy LoreauxLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandy-loreaux-6567997Email: sandyloreauxconsulting@gmail.com

    54 min

  5. APR 3

    Navigating Career Pivots With Purpose|EP11

    Key Themes1. Non-Linear Career Paths Are NormalJen’s journey: math/science → journalism → software → biopharmaNo “perfect plan”—careers evolve through explorationImportant takeaway: Your path doesn’t need to make sense upfront2. Follow Curiosity, Not Just CredentialsStarted as a temp answering phones → taught herself codingTook initiative by learning beyond her roleLesson: Growth comes from curiosity and action, not job titles3. Your First Job Doesn’t Define YouEntry-level roles can open unexpected doorsJen made herself “too valuable to ignore”Advice: Focus on learning and contribution, not prestige4. Transferable Skills MatterLogic, problem-solving, and storytelling carried across industriesTransitioned from software → pharma using niche expertiseInsight: Skills > industry experience (in many cases)5. Sometimes You Have to Step Back to Move ForwardTook a lower title to enter a new industryPrioritized long-term growth over short-term statusKey idea: Don’t get stuck chasing titles—chase opportunity6. Confidence Is Built (and Often Faked First)Experienced imposter syndrome despite success“Fake it till you make it” is realAdvice:Control your inner dialogueEveryone else is dealing with insecurities too7. Take Initiative—Don’t Wait to Be Asked“Always raise your hand”Speak up about what you wantBe intentional about your career direction8. Mentorship Helps You Grow TooMentoring others clarifies your own storyHelps build communication and self-awarenessInsight: Teaching = learning about yourself9. College vs. Real-World SkillsCollege can still matter—but isn’t everythingTrades and alternative paths are validGap identified:Lack of real-life skills (communication, independence)10. Balance Ambition with Self-AwarenessJen rarely asked: “Do I actually want this?”High achievers tend to overcommitAdvice:Pause and reflectIt’s okay to rest or pivot💡 Practical Advice for Young ProfessionalsDon’t wait for the “perfect job”—start somewhereBe adaptable and open to unexpected opportunitiesBuild a strong personal narrative (don’t rely fully on AI)Focus on what:Energizes youYou’re naturally good atTake risks—even if they feel uncomfortable🧠 Quotes & Takeaways“Don’t let yourself be trapped in something below your potential.”“Figure out what makes you special—and learn how to tell that story.”“Your inner monologue should build you up, not tear you down.”“Every job has something to teach you.”🔄 Final MessageSuccess isn’t about a straight line—it’s about: Trying thingsLearning continuouslyTaking risksStaying self-aware

    43 min

  6. MAR 26

    From Interviewing Boss Ladies To Living It |EP10

    🔑 Episode SummaryIn this episode, Christine sits down with former podcast host and tech professional Olivia Wherry to discuss career growth, navigating rejection, breaking into competitive industries, and building confidence as a young professional. Olivia shares how curiosity, persistence, and storytelling helped her land a role in the music tech industry—and why embracing discomfort is key to success. 🔟 Top 10 Takeaways1. Don’t Chase Job Titles—Chase CompaniesInstead of focusing on a specific role, look for companies that inspire you. Getting your foot in the door can open unexpected opportunities. 2. Rejection Is RedirectionRejection isn’t personal—it’s part of the process. Every “no” can lead you closer to the right opportunity. 3. Create Opportunities, Don’t Wait for ThemOlivia didn’t wait for a tech role—she created one by inserting herself into conversations and proving her value. 4. Your Story Is Your ExperienceEven without formal experience, your background (sports, clubs, projects) builds transferable skills—learn how to tell that story. 5. Ask Questions RelentlesslyThere’s no such thing as a dumb question. Curiosity is one of the fastest ways to grow and stand out. 6. Confidence Starts InternallyConfidence isn’t given—it’s built. If you don’t feel it yet, “borrow” it by embodying someone who inspires you. 7. Use Rejection as FuelInstead of shutting down, let rejection motivate you to improve, grow, and prove yourself. 8. Networking Is a Career SuperpowerConnections often lead to opportunities. Use: LinkedIn outreachNetworking eventsCoffee chats Even one response can change your path.9. Embrace AI as a Tool, Not a ThreatStart small: Replace Google searches with AI toolsAsk AI how to learn new skillsUse it to improve productivity AI is a competitive advantage if you learn it early.10. Become the Expert in SomethingKnowledge builds credibility. When you consistently have answers, people will seek you out—and that’s how careers grow. 💡 Key Themes from the EpisodeResilience and persistenceCareer exploration and flexibilityWomen navigating male-dominated industriesConfidence and self-beliefContinuous learning🔥 Memorable Quotes“Find a company you love and figure out the rest later.” “Rejection isn’t a reflection of your value.” “If you can’t find confidence, borrow it—become the version of yourself you admire.” “The person with the answers becomes the person everyone goes to.” 🎯 Action Steps for ListenersApply to companies—not just job titlesReach out to 5 people on LinkedIn this weekTry one new AI toolIdentify and articulate your transferable skillsAsk more questions in your current role💬 Final ThoughtYou don’t need everything figured out to move forward. Growth comes from trying, failing, learning—and showing up anyway. Listen to Olivia’s PodcastCurious to hear more from Olivia? Check out her podcast, Boss Ladies, where she interviews female executives and leaders: https://www.bossladiespodcast.com/

    45 min

  7. MAR 12

    From Roots to Rising: Christine Hummel on Reinvention, Leadership, and Owning Your Voice

    Episode OverviewIn this special episode of the Root to Rising Podcast, the roles are reversed. After previously appearing as a guest, Rory Latoria returns—but this time as the interviewer—turning the spotlight on host Christine Hummel to explore the experiences, mindset, and philosophies that shaped her leadership journey. From leaving a sorority after realizing it wasn’t aligned with her values to navigating male-dominated industries and leading large teams, Christine shares how curiosity, confidence, and a willingness to take risks helped shape her career. The conversation dives deep into the idea of motivators—the core drivers that give us energy—and why understanding them can transform both your career and your personal life. You’ll also hear a major announcement: Rory will officially join the podcast as a special co-host, bringing new perspectives and interviews to the platform. If you’re navigating career uncertainty, questioning traditional timelines, or looking to build more confidence in your decisions, this episode offers a powerful perspective on designing your own path. The Power of MotivatorsOne of the most important concepts Christine teaches is understanding your motivators—the things that consistently give you energy. Her three professional motivators: People & authentic conversationsTransformation and building new systemsInnovation and challenging the status quoThese motivators guided every career move she made. Why Careers Should Be Adventures, Not TimelinesChristine challenges the traditional life timeline: GraduateGet a jobGet marriedBuy a houseHave kidsInstead, she encourages people to see life as an adventure of experiences, not a rigid sequence of milestones. Confidence Is Built From What Energizes YouConfidence doesn’t come from titles or achievements. Christine believes it grows from doing the activities that bring you energy—whether that’s fitness, art, music, or learning. When those activities fuel you, confidence naturally spreads into other areas of life. Leadership PhilosophyChristine shares how she approaches leading teams: She focuses on individual motivations, not job titlesNot everyone needs to be friends—respect matters moreThe best teams are like neighborhoods: supportive, respectful, but independentA New Chapter for Root to RisingChristine announces that Rory Latoria will join the podcast as a special co-host. Rory will host interviews with guests from different backgrounds, expanding the perspectives and conversations on the show. Rapid-Fire Insights From ChristineAdvice she hears most from successful women: Be curiousTake risksWhat she’s currently working on: Practicing patience and slowing downHer dream for Root to Rising: To become a platform where women can grow, learn, and gain confidence through shared experiences.Memorable Quotes“Think of life as an adventure instead of a timeline.” “Confidence allows you to take risks. That’s why it matters.” “Be more afraid of what can’t happen if you don’t take the risk.”

    54 min

  8. MAR 10

    Terrific Topic Tuesday: Gen Z on Confidence & Success |EP8

    Episode SummaryIn this Terrific Topic Tuesday episode of the Root to Rising Podcast, Christine sits down with recent graduates Ellie and Megan from the University of Alabama for a rapid-fire question round about confidence, relationships, success, and navigating life in your early twenties. Through honest and spontaneous answers, the conversation explores Gen Z perspectives on confidence, social media influence, conflict, and defining success at a young age. The episode highlights how young adults today are balancing career ambitions, personal growth, and social expectations in a digital world filled with influencers and comparison. If you're navigating your 20s—or mentoring someone who is—this episode provides authentic insights into how the next generation thinks about identity, leadership, and happiness. Key Topics Discussed• One word that defines yourself at age 21–22 • First impressions when meeting someone • Confidence vs. emotional perception in women • Facing hard conversations vs. avoiding them • What makes a woman powerful • The impact of social media influencers on Gen Z • The reality behind curated online lives • Defining success in your early 20s • How success evolves over a lifetime Biggest Takeaways1. Confidence Shapes First Impressions Confidence influences how others perceive you and can determine how relationships and opportunities develop. 2. Hard Conversations Build Stronger Relationships Avoiding difficult conversations can create unnecessary drama, while addressing them directly often resolves issues faster. 3. Social Media Isn't Always Reality Influencer lifestyles may look glamorous, but they often show only a curated version of life. 4. Success is Personal and Evolving At 21–22, success may mean graduating college or starting a career. In the long term, success becomes about fulfillment, happiness, and achieving personal goals. 5. Small Wins Matter Recognizing small achievements can create motivation and a sense of progress toward larger life goals. Memorable Quotes💬 “Confidence is the first thing people notice about you.” 💬 “Life’s too short for unnecessary drama—just handle things head on.” 💬 “Success doesn’t have to be huge milestones; it can be the small things that make you happy.” 💬 “Don’t believe everything you see on social media.” Timestamps00:00 – Introduction to Terrific Topic Tuesday 01:00 – One word to describe yourself at 22 01:58 – What women are judged on: confidence vs emotion 02:40 – Avoiding vs confronting difficult conversations 06:10 – What makes a woman powerful 08:40 – Social media influencers and Gen Z influence 12:40 – The reality behind influencer lifestyles 13:40 – Defining success in your 20s vs later in life 17:00 – Appreciating small wins and milestones Who This Episode Is For• College students and recent graduates • Young professionals navigating their early careers • Mentors and parents wanting insight into Gen Z perspectives • Anyone interested in personal growth and confidence Discussion Questions• How do you define success at your current stage of life? • Do you address hard conversations directly or tend to avoid them? • How much influence does social media have on your personal goals?

    20 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
10 Ratings

About

Root to Rising isn’t just a podcast—it’s a call to every woman ready to step into her own story. Hosted by Christine Hummel, this unfiltered, soul-stirring series takes you inside the real lives of women who’ve dared to pivot, rebuild, and rise. From classrooms, to boardrooms, to fresh starts, heartbreaks to breakthroughs, these are the raw conversations you didn’t know you needed—about courage, risk, resilience, and finding your true direction. Christine sits down with trailblazers, dream-chasers, and everyday women with extraordinary lessons, giving you the mindset shifts, practical tools, and fierce motivation to grow where you’re planted and reach higher than you thought possible. Whether you’re launching your first career move, rewriting your next chapter, or searching for that spark again—Root to Rising will meet you where you are and inspire you to rise into the woman you’re meant to become.

Information

  • Creator
    Christine
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    30
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Christine
  • Show Website
    Root to Rising

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