The Big Silence

Latest Episodes:

84. Ever Forward: Ketamine Treatment, PTSD & Learning to Walk (Twice!) with Army Vet Chase Chewning Dec 20, 2023

Show notes

Today, we have the honor of sitting down with Chase Chewning, an Army veteran and Certified Health Coach who has turned his life's adversities into a source of strength, both for himself and for countless others.

After sustaining injuries that led to bilateral reconstructive hip surgeries, Chase faced the daunting task of learning to walk again, not once, but twice! This physical struggle coincided with an immense personal loss – the passing of his father to a terminal illness. These experiences, understandably, had a profound impact on Chase's mental health.

In this episode, Chase shares how he learned to pivot after these life-altering events, transitioning from military life back into civilian life, and enrolling in college at 24 to study exercise science. He shares how becoming a health coach, supporting and inspiring others in their own healing journeys, led him to confronting trauma and pain he had pushed aside.

We also explore how he overcame his struggles with PTSD, finding relief through innovative methods like psychedelic assisted psychotherapy and ketamine treatments.

Chase's story is a powerful example of how one can turn adversity into a purposeful life, inspiring others through his top-ranked Health & Fitness podcast, Ever Forward Radio, and his dedication to helping others "LIVE A LIFE EVER FORWARD." Let's dive in and be inspired by Chase Chewning's incredible journey of resilience and healing.

And – as always, don’t forget to check in on your friends this holiday season. In the spirit of support, I’ve teamed up with my friend Jewel again to spotlight the Not Alone Challenge throughout this often emotionally charged time of the year. Learn how you can join the fun: here.

(00:03:58) Chase’s Early Life & Military Career

(00:13:27) Suffering Career-Ending Injuries & The Long Road to Recovery

(00:19:04) Pivoting to Health Coaching & Healing In Community

(00:25:45) A Turning Point in Chase’s Mental Health Journey

(00:32:11) Finding Relief through Assisted Psychedelic Psychotherapy

(00:38:36) Profound Healing & Takeaways from PTSD Treatment

(00:48:54) Honoring His Dad’s Legacy: Ever Forward

Participate:

Not Alone Challenge

Resources:

Website: chasechewning.com
Instagram: @chase_chewning
Podcast: Ever Forward
Read: The Big Silence: A Daughter's Memoir of Mental Illness and Healing
Follow Karena Dawn on Instagram: @karenadawn
Follow The Big Silence on Instagram: @The.Big.Silence
Subscribe: The Big Silence YouTube Channel
Therapy For All: Resources for those in need

Donate to The Big Silence thebigsilence.com/donate to be a part of the movement to break the silence and make noise with us!

“The Big Silence” theme song written and performed by James Nicholas Kinney.

Producer, Bobby Goldstein.

The Big Silence is produced by Crate Media.

83. Break the Cycle: How To Heal From Intergenerational Trauma with Dr. Mariel Buqué Dec 13, 2023

Show notes

Is trauma passed down in our DNA? How can we break that cycle to heal our families and ourselves? These are questions that have been coming up a lot for me, my friends, and our podcast community. Today, I’m excited to tackle these topics with Dr. Mariel Buqué.

Dr. Buqué is a Columbia University trained psychologist and author of the new book, Break The Cycle: A Guide to Healing Intergenerational Trauma. In this episode, Dr. Buqué explains what intergenerational trauma is and how it impacts our everyday lives, offering tangible tips to overcome it, plus ways to gently and effectively communicate with family members. She also shares accessible practices to calm the mind and nervous system.

Plus, we get into a topic that’s absolutely top of mind right now. ’Tis the season for family gatherings – and challenging family dynamics, too. Dr. Buqué gives brilliant advice on how to prepare for and avoid triggers to protect your peace this season. Everyone who is seeing family for the holidays needs to hear this! Make sure to pre-order Break The Cycle, release date January 2nd!

(00:02:32) Dr. Buqué’s Experience Growing Up in Poverty

(00:09:08) Dr. Buqué’s Path to Psychology

(00:11:00) What Does Intergenerational Trauma Mean?

(00:13:50) Tips To Break the Cycle of Intergenerational Trauma

(00:16:33) Bringing the Mind & Body Together in Healthcare

(00:21:39) Accessible Practices To Calm Your Mind & Nervous System

(00:25:20) How To Have Hard Conversations With Your Family

(00:30:06) Tips To Navigate Family Gatherings This Holiday Season

Participate:

Not Alone Challenge

Resources:

Read: Break The Cycle: A Guide to Healing Intergenerational Trauma
Website: drmarielbuque.com
Instagram: @dr.marielbuque
Linkedin: Dr. Mariel Buqué
Podcast: Break The Cycle with Dr. Mariel
Read: The Big Silence: A Daughter's Memoir of Mental Illness and Healing
Follow Karena Dawn on Instagram: @karenadawn
Follow The Big Silence on Instagram: @The.Big.Silence
Subscribe: The Big Silence YouTube Channel
Therapy For All: Resources for those in need

Donate to The Big Silence thebigsilence.com/donate to be a part of the movement to break the silence and make noise with us!

“The Big Silence” theme song written and performed by James Nicholas Kinney.

Producer, Bobby Goldstein.

The Big Silence is produced by Crate Media.

82. How To Create Heaven on Earth & More Lessons From the Spirit World with Medium Rebecca Rosen Nov 15, 2023

Show notes

We can learn some of our greatest life lessons from those who have passed on. Today, we have a spiritual medium on the podcast for the first time ever. This incredible conversation brought me to tears of joy. It’s an experience I’ll never forget.

Rebecca Rosen is an internationally acclaimed medium, speaker, and author of the new book, What’s Your Heaven? Her mission is to open the lines of communication between our world and the spirit world.

In this illuminating chat, Rebecca shares exactly what a medium is and how she connects with spirits. We explore the essential choice between fear and love, and how we can all create our own version of heaven on Earth. Rebecca gives advice on how to tap into your intuition, recognize signs, and make contact with your loved ones. We also talk about simple ways to cultivate gratitude and joy in your everyday life.

As we were recording this episode, my mother connected and spoke to me though Rebecca. And she said the one thing I’ve always wanted to hear from her. Listen to hear her message and share this episode with anyone who may need a sign, themselves. Even the biggest skeptics will be blown away!

(00:04:15) Rebecca’s Spiritual Awakening

(00:10:50) Learning From Our Spiritual Hand-Me-Downs

(00:14:33) How Do We Create Heaven on Earth?

(00:17:51) Turn Your Natural Gifts Into a Business

(00:19:52) The Difference Between Psychics & Mediums

(00:21:44) Karena’s Mom Shares a Message

(00:26:35) Setting Boundaries With the Spirit World

(00:28:43) Inviting in Spirits Through Intention

(00:31:29) Top Takeaways From Rebecca’s Book

(00:37:04) Simple Steps To Create Joy

Participate:

Resources:

Read: What’s Your Heaven? by Rebecca Rosen
Website: rebeccarosen.com
Instagram: @mediumrebeccarosen
YouTube: @RebeccaRosenSpiritualMedium
Podcast: Small Medium at Large
Facebook: Rebecca Rosen
Read: The Big Silence: A Daughter's Memoir of Mental Illness and Healing
Follow Karena Dawn on Instagram: @karenadawn
Follow The Big Silence on Instagram: @The.Big.Silence
Subscribe: The Big Silence YouTube Channel
Therapy For All: Resources for those in need

Donate to The Big Silence thebigsilence.com/donate to be a part of the movement to break the silence and make noise with us!

“The Big Silence” theme song written and performed by James Nicholas Kinney.

Producer, Bobby Goldstein.

The Big Silence is produced by Crate Media.

81. Who Is Caring for Our Healthcare Workers? Mental Health & Nursing with Dr. Donna Gaffney & Nicole Foster Nov 08, 2023

Show notes

Nurses are on the frontlines caring for us, but how can they best care for their own mental and physical health? In today’s episode of The Big Silence, we pose the question to psychotherapist and psychiatric mental health nurse Dr. Donna Gaffney and wellness coach Nicole Foster.

Donna and Nicole are the authors of the new book, Courageous Well-Being For Nurses. This book – and today’s warm hug of a conversation – are for you if you are a nurse, know a nurse, or want to be inspired by a nurse. No matter what your career path, you’ll learn new ways to prioritize your wellness.

We explore how to break the stigma of healthcare professionals asking for help, themselves. Donna and Nicole share advice on how to create boundaries between your work and home life, how to fit nourishing foods and movement into a busy schedule, and how to cultivate connection and combat loneliness. We also talk about the residual effects of the pandemic on healthcare workers and touch on how to support loved ones through grief and loss.

Plus, what is a chocolate meditation? Listen to find out!

Participate:

Resources:

Read: Courageous Well-Being For Nurses
Instagram: @courageouswellbeing
Dr. Donna Gaffney, Instagram: @donna.a.gaffney
Nicole Foster, Instagram: @nicolefoster
Dr. Donna Gaffney, Website: donnagaffney.com
Nicole Foster, Website: nicolecfoster.com
Podcast Episode: 33. Learning How To Love Yourself with Gwen Dittmar
Debriefing The Frontlines: debriefingthefrontlinesinc.org
Don’t Clock Out: dontclockout.org
The Emotional PPE Project: emotionalppe.org
Read: The Big Silence: A Daughter's Memoir of Mental Illness and Healing
Follow Karena Dawn on Instagram: @karenadawn
Follow The Big Silence on Instagram: @The.Big.Silence
Subscribe: The Big Silence YouTube Channel
Therapy For All: Resources for those in need

Donate to The Big Silence thebigsilence.com/donate to be a part of the movement to break the silence and make noise with us!

“The Big Silence” theme song written and performed by James Nicholas Kinney.

Producer, Bobby Goldstein.

The Big Silence is produced by Crate Media.

80. Everything You’ve Wanted To Know About Psychedelic Therapy with Derek Du Chesne & Dr. Sam Zand Nov 01, 2023

Show notes

I’m really excited to dig into a new topic you’ve been asking about – psychedelic therapy. Today, Derek Du Chesne and Dr. Sam Zand demystify the sometimes controversial practice and explain how it is transforming the future of mental health treatment.

Derek and Dr. Zand are the co-founders of Better U, an alternative mental health platform that offers at-home ketamine therapy and other holistic healing modalities. Their mission is to evolve our understanding of mental health – shifting the conversation from mental illness to mental wellness.

In today’s episode, Derek and Dr. Zand break down what ketamine therapy actually is, and how it’s different from the party drug and “horse tranquilizer” you may have heard of. We talk about how psychedelic therapy is used as just one part of a holistic approach to move through depression, anxiety, and grief – exploring how ketamine allows people to quiet their inner programming to uncover hidden perspective, purpose, and alignment.

Derek and Dr. Zand also share their perspectives on chemical imbalances, the effects of psychedelics vs. alcohol, and their compassionate advice for anyone struggling with their mental health right now. This episode is for anyone who is curious and open minded. Share it with your friends to spark a new conversation.

Resources:

Instagram: @betterucare
Website: betterucare.com
Derek Instagram: @derekddd
Dr. Zand Instagram: @drsamzand
Podcast Episode: How to Shift Your Self-Talk & Live Fearlessly with Katie Horwitch
Read: The Big Silence: A Daughter's Memoir of Mental Illness and Healing
Follow Karena Dawn on Instagram: @karenadawn
Follow The Big Silence on Instagram: @The.Big.Silence
Subscribe: The Big Silence YouTube Channel
Therapy For All: Resources for those in need

Donate to The Big Silence thebigsilence.com/donate to be a part of the movement to break the silence and make noise with us!

“The Big Silence” theme song written and performed by James Nicholas Kinney.

Producer, Bobby Goldstein.

The Big Silence is produced by Crate Media.

79. Revisiting Narcissism: Identifying a Narcissist in Your Life with Dr. Jaime Zuckerman Oct 25, 2023

Show notes

Today’s re-air puts the spotlight back on Dr. Jaime Zuckerman, aka Dr. Z. She's a national expert in narcissistic abuse and a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in the treatment of adults with anxiety and mood disorders. She's also a relationship coach and she has her own podcast.

We break down narcissistic personality disorder, harmful Disney messaging, golden child syndrome manipulation, and how to have a healthy relationship with a narcissist who could be a family member, a parent, a sibling.

This is a commonly requested topic, and a complicated one to try and understand through the lens of logic. In this world, empathy is transactional, confidence is a performance, and there is always a motive. Dr. Jaime delivered so much insight, it’s worth a second listen.

If you've ever thought you may have been in a narcissistic romantic relationship, or if, in the workplace, you possibly have a narcissist and you don't know how to manage that and be able to do your job – this is the episode for you. Remember, if you love it or you think there's someone out there, a loved one or a friend, that needs to hear this – please share it!

Resources:

• Podcast: It’s Me, Dr. Z

• Website: drjaimezuckerman.com

• Instagram: @dr.z_psychologist

• Facebook: Dr. Jaime Spinell Zuckerman

• YouTube: Dr. Jaime Zuckerman

• Twitter: @drzpsychologist

• Read: The Big Silence: A Daughter's Memoir of Mental Illness and Healing

• Follow Karena Dawn on Instagram: @karenadawn

• Follow The Big Silence on Instagram: @The.Big.Silence

• Subscribe: The Big Silence YouTube Channel

• Therapy For All: Resources for those in need

Donate to The Big Silence thebigsilence.com/donate to be a part of the movement to break the silence and make noise with us!

“The Big Silence” theme song written and performed by James Nicholas Kinney.

Producer, Bobby Goldstein.

The Big Silence is produced by Crate Media.

78. Listen to Your Gut: Food as Medicine, Gut Health & Intuition in Entrepreneurship with Kerry Song Oct 18, 2023

Show notes

On this beautiful new day, we welcome the talented Kerry Song to chat about my favorite topics – healthy eating, mental wellness, and impact-driven entrepreneurship. Kerry is the founder and CEO of Abbot’s Butcher, a brand that makes delicious, plant-based meats from quality, ethically-sourced ingredients.

Kerry has always been driven by a mission to serve others. While working with a marketing team for Tony Robbins, she was diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder that turned her life upside down. Through her own journey, she discovered the healing power of plant-based eating. On this path, she realized that there were no options for vegan meats that were truly healthy and free of chemicals and additives. So, she did what a driven person does with a good idea – she launched Abbot’s Butcher and grew a mindful, modern brand from the ground up.

Today, she shares her career journey and gives advice for entrepreneurs who want to make a difference. We talk about how and why food is medicine, and the connection between gut health, immunity, and mental health. We also explore how to make healthier food choices, what to look for on labels, and ways to support your gut.

I know you’ll be as inspired by Kerry’s story as I am! Bobby and I love their recipes! Make sure to check out Abbot’s Butcher in Whole Foods, Sprouts, Target, and more retailers.

Resources:

Instagram: @kerryesong
Instagram: @abbotsbutcher
Website: abbotsbutcher.com
Abbot’s Butcher Recipes: abbotsbutcher.com/recipes
Clean Makeup Recommendations: saiehello.com and kosas.com
Clean Lotion Recommendations: mybiosense.com and oseamalibu.com
Replenysh: replenysh.com
Read: The Big Silence: A Daughter's Memoir of Mental Illness and Healing
Follow Karena Dawn on Instagram: @karenadawn
Follow The Big Silence on Instagram: @The.Big.Silence
Subscribe: The Big Silence YouTube Channel
Therapy For All: Resources for those in need

Donate to The Big Silence thebigsilence.com/donate to be a part of the movement to break the silence and make noise with us!

“The Big Silence” theme song written and performed by James Nicholas Kinney.

Producer, Bobby Goldstein.

The Big Silence is produced by Crate Media.

77. Secrets of a Top Trainer: Fitness Motivation & Finding Inner Strength with Eric Rakofsky Oct 11, 2023

Show notes

Personal trainer and amateur boxer, Eric Rakofsky, has always been a fighter. After a challenging upbringing and losing his father at a young age, Eric found purpose in his passion for fitness. He now helps his clients – including influential CEOs and supermodels – connect with their inner strength, in and out of the gym.

Eric is also a trainer at my favorite gym in Austin, The Kollective. I’m excited to share his story today.

In this episode, Eric opens up about his childhood in Brooklyn and how he processed grief following his father’s death. He shares how he discovered freedom and healing in movement. We talk about how to shift out of a victim mentality, and get Eric’s valuable advice to stay present through life’s challenges.

He also tells us about his recent treatment for thyroid cancer and the important life lessons that experience taught him. Plus, tune in for his tips on how to get started on a fitness journey, ways to find motivation after a break from exercise, and the secrets to being a leading personal trainer.

And make sure you don’t miss upcoming Austin retreat announcements by signing up for our newsletter at thebigsilence.com.

Resources:

Instagram: @ericrakofsky1
Instagram: @kollective.inc
TikTok: @ericrakofsky
X: @eric_rakofsky
The Kollective: thekollective.com
Ladder Training: offer.joinladder.com/rakofsky
The Adversity Advantage Podcast: From The Streets of NYC to Celebrity Trainer: The Story of Eric Rakofsky
Read: The Big Silence: A Daughter's Memoir of Mental Illness and Healing
Follow Karena Dawn on Instagram: @karenadawn
Follow The Big Silence on Instagram: @The.Big.Silence
Subscribe: The Big Silence YouTube Channel
Therapy For All: Resources for those in need

Donate to The Big Silence thebigsilence.com/donate to be a part of the movement to break the silence and make noise with us!

“The Big Silence” theme song written and performed by James Nicholas Kinney.

Producer, Bobby Goldstein.

The Big Silence is produced by Crate Media.

76. Rewrite Your Inner Story: How To Shift Your Self-Talk & Live Fearlessly with Katie Horwitch Oct 04, 2023

Show notes

Let’s talk about self-talk. How you speak to yourself sets the tone for everything else in your life. That’s why I’m so excited to welcome Katie Horwitch – passionate writer, mindset coach, and women’s empowerment activist – to The Big Silence podcast today.

Katie is the founder of WANT: Women Against Negative Self-Talk, a platform that gives women tools, motivation, and inspiration to shift their internal conversations in a more positive direction. Her first book, Want Your Self: Shift Your Self-Talk and Unearth The Strength In Who You Were All Along, comes out on October 3rd.

In today’s episode, Katie shares a robust toolkit and tangible tips to transform your self-talk – and these aren’t your typical BS Instagrammable platitudes! Outlining key lessons from her book, we explore the difference between self-love and self-like, how to navigate comparison mode on social media, and insightful ways to face your inner critic.

Katie also shares her personal gratitude practice and why it’s so essential. Plus, she reveals one of my favorite new tricks – how to have a “planned freakout.” She even leaves us with some helpful homework to feel more centered, grateful, and fearless.

After you listen to this episode, tag me and Katie on Instagram and tell us what you’re grateful for today. And be sure to check out her new book!

Resources:

• Read: Want Your Self: Shift Your Self-Talk and Unearth The Strength In Who You Were All Along by Katie Horwitch

• Instagram: @katiehorwitch

• Website: katiehorwitch.com

• Website: womenagainstnegativetalk.com

• Facebook: Katie Horwitch

• Podcast: WANTcast: The Women Against Negative Talk Podcast

• Read: The Big Silence: A Daughter's Memoir of Mental Illness and Healing

• Follow Karena Dawn on Instagram: @karenadawn

• Follow The Big Silence on Instagram: @The.Big.Silence

• Subscribe: The Big Silence YouTube Channel

• Therapy For All: Resources for those in need

Donate to The Big Silence thebigsilence.com/donate to be a part of the movement to break the silence and make noise with us!

“The Big Silence” theme song written and performed by James Nicholas Kinney.

Producer, Bobby Goldstein.

The Big Silence is produced by Crate Media.

75. How to Build Unbreakable Confidence & Resilience with Demi-Leigh Tebow Sep 27, 2023

Show notes

I’m so excited to welcome Demi-Leigh Tebow, a powerhouse entrepreneur, motivational speaker, and former Miss South Africa and Miss Universe to the show today. After a traumatic carjacking experience, Demi dove into learning about gender-based violence and human trafficking. She then founded Unbreakable, a confidence-building conference that educates, empowers, and equips women to overcome challenges and break barriers.

Today, she opens up about the carjacking experience and how she trusted her intuition to fight back. We explore her healing journey through trauma counseling and EMDR therapy. We also talk about ways to tackle our everyday lives with confidence, how a small act can make a big impact, and Demi’s #1 practice for her mental health. Plus, she shares a genius tip for holding yourself accountable and staying motivated in your workout routine.

Demi radiates strength, optimism, and resilience. I know you’ll be inspired by her story and unbreakable mission to uplift women. Make sure to check out the Unbreakable conference October 7th in Jacksonville, Florida.

Remember – for the month of September, in collaboration with National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, we're seeking your support to raise $10,000 to help 100 people through our Therapy for All program. Support the fundraiser here.

Resources:

• Instagram: @demitebow

• Website: demileigh.com

• TikTok: @demitebow

• YouTube: @demitebow2962

• Facebook: Demi-Leigh Tebow

• X: @DemiTebow

• Register for Unbreakable Conference: demileigh.com/unbreakable

• Unbreakable Instagram: @togetherunbreakable

• Podcast: Unmasking Resilience: From Messy Minds to Mental Mastery with Dr. Caroline Leaf #69

• Read: The Big Silence: A Daughter's Memoir of Mental Illness and Healing

• Follow Karena Dawn on Instagram: @karenadawn