Root to Rising Podcast

Graduating, Moving, Courage, and Thriving – Ellie & Alex’s Post-College Journey

Hosted by: Christine Hummel

🎙️ Episode Overview

What 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 Learn

• Confidence 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 For

• College students considering out-of-state schools
• Seniors stressing about graduation and “what’s next”
• Parents learning how to support independence
• Mentors and leaders guiding the next generation of women

🔑 Takeaways for Rising Women

1. Start early — but don’t panic. Careers unfold at their own pace.
2. Say yes more often. Each “yes” builds skills, connections, or both.
3. Define your personal brand. Have a 30-second intro ready at all times.
4. Balance hustle with joy. College (and your early 20s) is about experiences and preparation.
5. Patience pays off. The right opportunities often come when you least expect them.

📌 Episode Resources

• Follow Christine Hummel on LinkedIn for mentorship insights
• Explore Nashville networking clubs and young professional groups
• Connect 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.