20 Questions with Rachel Neill

by Blog Collaborator April 15, 2021

We're heading to the Midwest this week for our Day in the Life takeover - to take a peek behind the scenes in the life of serial entrepreneur, Rachel Niell. Rachel is the founder and CEO of Carex Consulting Group and Talent Bandit, and during the pandemic was inspired to pivot and start her THIRD business: Shenanigan Kids - a modern kids playset company creating products for imaginative play.

Rachel will be taking over our Instagram stories tomorrow, Friday April 16th, but before she does, let's take a moment to get to know her via our 20 Questions series:

What’s your favorite place in the entire world?

I love to travel. So far I think one of my favorite places I’ve ever been is Paris. Our family took a trip there a few years ago and everything was wonderful: the wine, the art, the food, the scenery. It’s one of the few places we all agreed we’d love to go back to!

What’s the best parenting advice you’ve ever received?

To babywear in the early months! It’s a lifesaver. I probably own every carrier out there and my husband and I both think it makes parenting little ones so much easier. It helps create an awesome bond too! By babywearing, you get your hands back and can move freely while the baby sleeps.

Do you have any pets?

Yes! We have two silly dogs - a miniature bull terrier, Kingston, and Witzy, a french bulldog.

What is something you are grateful for today?

I’m so grateful that spring is in the air! I love watching the grass and flowers come up and feel the rain and sunshine on my skin.

First thing you do in the morning?

First thing I do is get the kids fed! Once they are eating I’m able to grab a cup of coffee and have 5 minutes to check the news, weather, and my calendar.

What is your biggest goal right now?

I really want financial freedom. My husband and I work really hard to minimize debt and make it possible to go after our dreams and ambitions.

Last person you hugged?

My sweet little 3 year old, Gavin!

What did you want to be when you were a kid?

I really wanted to go to Nasa Space Camp! Then I wanted to be a lawyer, which stuck with me until I got to law school and realized that was NOT my real dream.

What is your claim to fame?

I’m the founder of The Figgy!

What are you saving money for right now?

We bought a house in the country, but it needs a ton of renovating. We like to pay for our renovations in cash, so I’m saving up for the next home improvement project.

What’s your favorite brunch item?

Definitely an omelet!

Who has been the most influential person in your life?

Mark Bakken has been my mentor for the past 10 years. He has really led me down a path of entrepreneurship and helped me rise to the challenge of raising capital and launching companies!

What’s your biggest day-to-day challenge?

Balancing two companies and 5 kids! Things are always changing so we need to be nimble!

When have you given up on something?

Law school! It was a great lesson that sometimes things aren’t a fit for you, and if you recognize and acknowledge that, it’s okay. I’m so grateful I didn’t force myself to do something just because I didn’t want to say “I quit.” My path would have been so different otherwise!

What is your favorite way to spend a Saturday?

I love getting outside with the family. We have a large yard so there is always something to do! This year we are planting a large garden together, and each weekend we work on it a little bit!