The Big Silence

Latest Episodes:

74. Rewriting 50+ Years of Mental Health Stigma: A Raw Conversation with Rocker Snake Sabo Sep 20, 2023

Show notes

Snake Sabo spent years suffering in silence, afraid to talk about his experiences with severe depression, anxiety, trauma, and self-harm. Now, he speaks openly about his journey and shares our passion for breaking the stigma around mental health.

We’re thrilled to welcome Snake Sabo, a legendary musician and the guitarist of heavy metal band Skid Row. In this vulnerable conversation, Snake opens up about receiving a mental health diagnosis in the 1970s, before any information or support was available to him. He shares stories of overcoming generational trauma, abuse, and self-harm as a teenager. We talk about how he found his calling as a musician, how he got his nickname from Jon Bon Jovi, and the healing power of music. We also explore how he supports his mental health on tour, and the tools he turns to today to manage anxiety and depression.

What stands out to me the most is how the stigmas Snake faced in the 70s and 80s still persist today. “The big silence is what makes this thing become perpetual,” he said. We’re breaking those patterns with conversations like this. Thank you for being a part of our movement!

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: @snakesabo16

• Skid Row: skidrow.com

• Tour Schedule: skidrow.com/tour

• Podcast: You Don’t Have To Suffer for Your Art with Lindsey Morgan

• Tone It Up 2023 Fall Power Up Challenge: toneitup.com/powerup

• 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.

73. You Can Transform the World: An Unforgettable Conversation with Marianne Williamson Sep 13, 2023

Show notes

It is a great honor to have bestselling author, spiritual leader, and 2024 presidential candidate Marianne Williamson on the podcast. She has changed millions of lives – including mine, I have been following her work since I started my own spiritual journey in my 20s – and she continues to do so every day with her deep passion and purpose for healing our world.

In this dynamic, thought-provoking conversation, Marianne and I talk about how we as individuals can impact the collective. We explore the intersectionality of mental health, how to protect America’s youth, how to bring less fear into politics, and ways to create a more compassionate society.

Marianne also speaks on the importance of owning your inner light as a means to enlighten others, believing we each have the power, and the responsibility, to bring light into the darkness. “There are forces in the world that would bring you down, and there is a spirit in us all that would lift us up.” That is her message to the community today.

She embodies that spirit and inspires it in all of us. This conversation is truly life changing, and I can’t wait for you to hear it!

Resources:

• Instagram: @mariannewilliamson

• Website: williamsonlearningcenter.com

• Campaign Website: marianne2024.com

• YouTube: Marianne Williamson Community

• Read: A Return to Love by Marianne Williamson

• Read: A Year of Miracles by Marianne Williamson

• Read: A Course in Miracles by Foundation For Inner Peace

• 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.

72. Connect With Your Inner Knowing: A Revealing Conversation with Kimberly Van Der Beek & Peggy Rometo Sep 06, 2023

Show notes

I am thrilled to welcome Kimberly Van Der Beek and Peggy Rometo to the show. Recently, I chatted with them on their amazing podcast, Bathroom Chronicles, instantly falling in love with their warm energy, vulnerability, and deep insights. I know you will too!

Peggy is a spiritual teacher and world-renowned energy expert who helps others discover their intuitive gifts. Kimberly was a strategic advisor, producer, and activist before marrying actor James Van Der Beek, having six children, and moving their family to a ranch outside of Austin. From the ranch’s rustic bathroom, Kimberly and Peggy co-host Bathroom Chronicles, which gives a microphone to the honest, hilarious, and revealing conversations women have in the bathroom.

In today’s episode, we have a revealing conversation of our own. We talk about how Peggy and Kimberly met (at the same retreat Kimberly met James) and how they sustain and strengthen their friendship through the ebbs and flows of lived experiences.

Peggy gives advice for tapping into your psychic gifts and explains what Mercury Retrograde really means. Kimberly vulnerably shares her experience with pregnancy loss in the public eye. Then, they both reveal their secrets to staying positive during challenging times. You won’t want to miss this one, and make sure you catch my episode on Bathroom Chronicles, too!

Resources:

• Podcast: Bathroom Chronicles on Apple Podcasts & Spotify

• Podcast Instagram: @bathroomchroniclespodcast

• Kimberly’s Instagram: @vanderkimberly

• Peggy’s Instagram: @peggyrometo

• Listen to Karena on Bathroom Chronicles #023

• 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.

71. Are You Living Like You Mean It? And More Big Questions With Author & Cancer Thriver Kris Carr Aug 30, 2023

Show notes

We’re all going to die. But how many of us live along the way?

That is the question that wellness leader, Kris Carr, poses to the community today. After following one another for many years, she finally joins us on the podcast for a deep dive into her journey and mission.

As a New York Times bestselling author, wellness activist, and cancer thriver, Kris leads the charge in the fight against disease, empowering people to take back their physical and mental health. You’ll hear examples of her own strength throughout the conversation; we can all learn from how she lives with perseverance, positivity, and presence.

In this episode, we talk about Kris’s journey with stage 4 cancer. At 31, she was given 10 years to live. 20 years later, she is not only surviving – but thriving. Kris also shares how she coped with grief and survivor’s guilt in the wake of her father’s death.

We talk vulnerably about the hard conversations you face when you’re losing a parent – unpacking the difference between fear and anxiety, not abandoning yourself, and how to support friends who are experiencing loss.

We end on a light note with five fun things you don’t know about Kris Carr. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation. And be sure to pre-order Kris’s latest book, I’m Not a Mourning Person, today!

Resources:

• Instagram:@crazysexykris

• Facebook: Kris Carr

• Website: kriscarr.com

• Read: I’m Not a Mourning Person by Kris Carr

• Read: Crazy Sexy Kitchen by Kris Carr

• Read: Crazy Sexy Diet by Kris Carr

• Read: Crazy Sexy Cancer Survivor by Kris Carr

• Pinterest: @CrazySexyKris

• Research Mentioned: Dr. Judson Brewer

• 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.

Executive Handyman, Bobby Goldstein.

The Big Silence is produced by Crate Media.

70. Resilience as a Superpower: Tone It Up Girl Katrina Surdi’s Story of Loss, Love & Community Aug 23, 2023

Show notes

I’m honored to introduce you to Katrina Surdi, a radiant Tone It Up girl, mental health advocate, devoted kindergarten teacher, and certified yoga instructor. Katrina has been a leader in the Tone It Up community for more than twelve years, where she has forged lifelong friendships and motivated others with her strength, positivity, and vibrant spirit.

You can count me as one of the countless women who Katrina has inspired.

Despite facing tragedy and addiction in her family, Katrina remains a shining light. Resilience is her superpower, and she shares it with everyone in her life. She shows us that resilience doesn’t have to look a certain way, and that overcoming grief is an ongoing process.

In this vulnerable conversation, Katrina talks about her experiences losing family members and friends, tips for resilience, and advice for helping others navigate grief. We also explore how she nurtures her own physical and mental health through exercise, yoga, meditation, and the power of community. Katrina shares how she prioritizes self-care, even as she is a caretaker to her students and family.

I’m excited for you to learn from Katrina’s openness, unwavering dedication to wellness, and her ability to find strength in the face of life’s challenges.

Resources:

• Instagram: @katrinasurdi

• Learn about the Bellevue mudslide and support Katrina’s family: bellevuemudslide.com

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

• Read: How to Help Your Child Clean Up Their Mental Mess by Dr. Caroline Leaf

• Tone It Up: @toneitup

• Newsletter: Sign Up for Email Updates

• 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.

Executive Handyman, Bobby Goldstein.

The Big Silence is produced by Crate Media.

69. Unmasking Resilience: From Messy Minds to Mental Mastery with Dr. Caroline Leaf Aug 16, 2023

Show notes

We are truly honored to welcome Dr. Caroline Leaf, a renowned communication pathologist, audiologist, and clinical and cognitive neuroscientist with an expertise in psychoneurobiology and metacognitive neuropsychology. For over four decades, Dr. Leaf has been at the forefront of mind-brain research, tirelessly exploring the profound ways our minds shape our brains, control our thoughts, and ultimately define our mental well-being.

Drawing from her own rich history in the field, and as the host of the widely popular podcast of her own – Cleaning Up the Mental Mess – she has been instrumental in changing lives through her bestselling books, leading research, and innovative interventions.

In this episode, we dive deep into topics like the changing landscape of mental health diagnosis, the uniqueness of every mind, the critical role of open discussions during tumultuous times like divorce, and the groundbreaking work behind the NeuroCycle app. We also touch upon empowering tools to communicate emotions, understanding the ripple effects of suppressed trauma, and equipping educators to better support both parents and students.

Let's open our minds and hearts to the wisdom Dr. Leaf brings to the table. Remember to subscribe for more insightful discussions and share this episode with loved ones who might benefit from hearing it.

Resources:

• Read: Cleaning Up Your Mental Mess

• Read: How to Help Your Child Clean Up Their Mental Mess

• Facebook: @drleaf

• Instagram:@drcarolineleaf

• YouTube: @DrCarolineLeaf

• Website: drleaf.com

• NeuroCycle: neurocycle.app

• 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.

Executive Handyman, Bobby Goldstein.

The Big Silence is produced by Crate Media.

68. Falling into Fulfillment: Unraveling the Inspiring Story & Deep Impact of Jenna Phillips Ballard Aug 09, 2023

Show notes

Jenna Phillips Ballard remembers experiencing severe depression as a teen, crippled by a fear of being misunderstood, bullied by classmates, ruminating on the experience of her own funeral. Then, she fell – suffering a traumatic head injury that would influence the rest of her life.

Today, we’re joined by a powerhouse woman, leader, coach, trainer, author, and now – musician! Jenna Phillips Ballard has worked with the biggest names in the entertainment industry (this conversation includes mention of Ben Stiller, Katy Perry, Blink 182, even Beyonce!).

During this time she was one of LA’s most sought-after fitness experts and a guest on shows such as Dr. Phil and The Doctors. She has been featured on KTLA, Good Morning LaLa Land, and The American Dream Show and featured in Lucky, Harper’s Bazaar, Allure, and Madame Figaro magazines.

In 2009, she discovered the world of emotional intelligence, experiential training, and somatic practices. She then realized she had a bigger calling and began studying human behavior, leadership, and a variety of transformational methods – co-founding Ascension Leadership Academy (ALA) with her husband in 2016.

Together, they have coached thousands of people into their greatness and supported dozens of companies in multiplying their performance, effectiveness, and levels of success. In fact, her students are in the midst of a 15-day fundraising project after selecting The Big Silence as their beneficiary organization. Learn more about their program: Ascension Leadership Academy’s 15 day campaign to support The Big Silence.

Resources:

• Ascension Leadership Academy’s 15 day campaign to support The Big Silence

• Website: jennaphillipsballard.com

• Music: PERMISSION (new single)

• Instagram: @jennaphillipsballard

• 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.

Executive Handyman, Bobby Goldstein.

The Big Silence is produced by Crate Media.

67. MacKenzie Bourg’s Journey through Adversity, Grief & Healing Through Music Aug 02, 2023

Show notes

I am thrilled to have MacKenzie Bourg as our guest today. MacKenzie has carved out a unique path in the world of music. From being an aspiring athlete in Lafayette, Louisiana, to battling a life-threatening virus that triggered congestive heart failure, his journey has been anything but conventional.

In this episode, he illuminates how his inability to be physically active at a young age fueled his passion for music and led him to incredible opportunities. On NBC's The Voice and FOX's American Idol, he reached the Top 4 and garnered a loyal fanbase, the "MacPack." Bourg's latest accomplishment includes his 2023 single "sad on the weekend," released with PREACH Records, and the placement of "good day" in a national IKEA TV and radio campaign.

MacKenzie discusses the mental health challenges he has faced; adjusting to life post The Voice and American Idol and opening up about the mindset shifts and personal growth he has experienced through his music career. MacKenzie also takes us on a heartfelt journey behind the creation of some of his most popular songs, including the touching connection between his grandmother and "Good Day,” which he also performs for us, live.

Despite his trials, MacKenzie is a shining example of resilience, reminding us all of the power of pursuing our passions in the face of adversity. Don't miss this uplifting and inspiring conversation with MacKenzie Bourg and watch out for his next album coming soon!

Resources:

• Instagram: @mackenziebourg

• Facebook: MacKenzie Bourg

• Tik Tok: @makcenzei

• YouTube: MacKenzie Bourg

• Twitter: @mackenziebourg

• Light Festival: thelightsfest.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.

Executive Handyman, Bobby Goldstein.

The Big Silence is produced by Crate Media.

66. Healing After A Toxic Relationship: Finding Harmony in Self-Love with Dr. Najwa Zebian Jul 19, 2023

Show notes

Today, on The Big Silence, we’re joined by Dr. Najwa Zebian, renowned activist, author, speaker, and educator in the mental health and relationships space. Her multifaceted self-help audiobook, Conversations on Letting Go, is a TBS favorite – packed with real-world advice and introspective thought exercises to help people get through the hard times and enjoy the good ones.

We cover her inspired path as an educator of young refugees, writer, and mental health advocate – dipping into existentialism, how and why we do the things we do, and set forth ways to hack the system for joy and contentment. Touching on toxic relationships, infidelity, trust, and forgiveness – we reckon with ego and wrestle with the ultimate truth of it all – that we can’t, and never will, control the actions of others.

As always, thank you for tuning in and supporting the show. If you’re looking for mental health support or want to donate to Therapy For All, our fund that helps people get access to therapy, visit thebigsilence.com/therapy-for-all. And if you’re interested in joining us for upcoming LIVE podcast recordings, sign up for The Big Silence newsletter at TheBigSilence.com to get access!

Resources:

• Audiobook: Conversations on Letting Go

• Website: najwazebian.com

• Instagram: @najwazebian

• TikTok: @najwazebian

• Facebook: Najwa Zebian

• Twitter: @najwazebian

• YouTube: @najwazebian

• 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.

Executive Handyman, Bobby Goldstein.

The Big Silence is produced by Crate Media.

65. What is Long COVID? And How to Move Forward with Dr. James C. Jackson Jul 12, 2023

Show notes

Today’s guest, Dr. James C. Jackson, is an internationally renowned expert on long COVID and its effects on cognitive and mental health functioning. He is a research professor of Medicine and Psychiatry at Vanderbilt, where he is also the co-founder and director of Behavioral Health at the award-winning ICU Recovery Center, one of the first comprehensive clinical resources devoted to diagnosing and treating survivors of both mild and critical illness, including those who survived COVID-19.

He and his team created the first psychologist-led long COVID support groups in the United States early in the pandemic and continue to offer multiple groups every week. He is the author of Clearing the Fog: From Surviving to Thriving with Long COVID.

In today’s episode, we dive into what long COVID is, how to identify the symptoms, and tips for how to better live with its effects on your life and mental health. Dr. Jackson openly shares about his own mental health journey with OCD, supporting healthcare workers during 2020, the most detrimental impact of COVID on our society, and how to help children understand the importance of caring for their own mental health.

Dr. Jackson’s message is one of hope and encouragement, and shares that we can overcome challenges and improve our health. I’m honored to have him share his message with you all today.

If you’re looking for mental health support or want to donate to Therapy For All, our fund that helps people get access to therapy, visit thebigsilence.com/therapy-for-all. And if you’re interested in joining us for upcoming LIVE podcast recordings, sign up for The Big Silence newsletter at TheBigSilence.com to get access!

Resources:

• Twitter: @drjimjackson

• Clinic: Vanderbilt Adult Post-COVID Clinic

• Website: jamescjackson.com

• Email: james.c.jackson@vumc.org

• Bio: James C. Jackson, PsyD

• Read: Clearing the Fog by James C. Jackson PsyD

• Listen: Dr. Jackson on Fresh Air

• 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