The Big Silence

Latest Episodes:

134. How to Use Positive Psychology to Navigate Your Darkest Days with Niyc Pidgeon Dec 11, 2024

Show notes

Trigger Warning: While the topic of suicide prevention is heavy, this conversation reminds us that even in the darkest times, there is a path forward. My guest, Niyc Pidgeon, is a positive psychologist and author of One More Day. After facing her own mental health battles and losing three close friends to suicide, her understanding of trauma and compassion runs deep. Through her work, she empowers others with tools to navigate hard moments and aims to help a billion people become more mentally healthy.

In this episode, Niyc shares warning signs that someone may be struggling and offers guidance on how to support them. She highlights the power of small actions, like taking one more breath or splashing cold water on your face, to create a shift when overwhelmed. Her focus on daily check-ins and preventative care emphasizes the importance of connection before a crisis hits. Niyc’s perspective is heartbreaking yet hopeful, offering actionable tools for finding strength when it feels like there’s none left. If you’re struggling or know someone who is, let this conversation remind you: This too shall pass. You are not alone. Let’s show up for each other, one small step at a time.

(00:00:00) Introductions

(00:04:21) The Pact: Honoring Niyc’s Friends Lost to Suicide

(00:11:51) Small Tools for Positive Shifts in Your Day

(00:17:47) Warning Signs of Mental Struggles & What Helps Most

(00:27:11) Processing Survivor’s Guilt & Turning Pain to Purpose

Click here for full show notes

Guest Info:

• Website: niyc.com

• Instagram: @niycpidge

• Read: One More Day by Niyc Pidgeon

Resources:

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

• Therapy For All: Resources for those in need

• If you or a loved one are struggling right now or are in crisis call or text 988 for the suicide prevention hotline: Mental Health Resources

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.

Mentioned in this episode:

Act + Acre | Visit ActandAcre.com and take the quiz on their website to see what hair & scalp system is right for you. Use code TBS20 for 20% off your purchase.

133. The Dark Reality of Our Food System & How to Make Empowered Choices with Courtney Swan Dec 04, 2024

Show notes

As an Integrative Nutritionist, passionate food activist, and host of the popular Realfoodology podcast, Courtney Swan is on a mission to fix America’s broken food system and empower us with the knowledge we need to make healthier choices. In this episode, Courtney shares eye-opening insights about harmful ingredients and food practices most of us have no idea about. She breaks down the difference between conventional and regenerative farming, highlights the effects of lax U.S. food regulations, and offers simple strategies for smarter grocery shopping. She even audits my own grocery haul, calling out ingredients to avoid, and spotlighting snacks and brands we can trust. This conversation is packed with practical tips to reduce the overwhelm and help you feel more confident and intentional with your food choices. Tune in to make choices that nourish your body and the planet!

(00:00:00) Introductions

(00:04:20) Exposing Food Industry Secrets & the Power of Quality Nutrition

(00:17:50) Unpacking Food Myths, Pesticides & Benefits of Regenerative Farming

(00:34:33) Debunking Nutrition Myths & Simplifying Healthier Food Choices

(00:43:59) Karena’s Pantry Audit: Ingredient Tips & the Truth About 'Healthy' Labels

(00:56:07) Navigating Microplastics, Natural Flavors & Better Food Choices

Click here for full show notes

Guest Info:

• Website: realfoodology.com

• Instagram: @realfoodology

• YouTube: Realfoodology

• Podcast: Realfoodology Podcast

Resources:

• 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

• Therapy For All: Resources for those in need

• Go to thebigsilence.com/partners for special offers for our listeners

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.

Mentioned in this episode:

Pique Life | Get up to 20% off Pique's Radiant Skin Duo plus a free starter kit with link piquelife.com/tbs.

132. Treat Yourself as Well as You Treat Others: Breaking Free from High Functioning Codependency with Terri Cole Nov 27, 2024

Show notes

Have you ever felt the need to “fix” everyone else’s problems or put others’ needs ahead of your own? I’m proud to welcome back psychotherapist and relationship expert Terri Cole, who shares insights from her book, Too Much: A Guide to Breaking the Cycle of High-Functioning Codependency. Terri reveals what high-functioning codependency (HFC) looks like—chronic overgiving, advice-giving, and prioritizing others at your expense—and explores the emotional and relational costs. She explains how these behaviors often stem from childhood adaptations and offers practical strategies to shift from problem-solving to holding space, set boundaries, and prioritize your own feelings. If you’re ready to stop overgiving and reclaim your emotional freedom, tune in now!

(00:00:00) Introductions

(00:04:20) What is High Functioning Codependency?

(00:14:21) Uncovering Signs of a HFC & The Root of Codependency

(00:25:51) The Real Cost of Codependency & Stopping the Cycle

(00:33:01) The Key to Healing Loneliness & Holding Space

(00:41:04) How to Change Codependent Patterns & Prioritize Yourself

Click here for full show notes

Guest Info:

• Website: terricole.com

• Instagram: @terricole

• Podcast: Terri Cole Show

• Read: Too Much by Terri Cole

Resources:

• Start a conversation in your The Big Silence merch: thebigsilence.com/collections/shop-all

• 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

• Thank you to our partners! Go to thebigsilence.com/partners for special offers for our listeners

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.

Mentioned in this episode:

Pique Life | Get up to 20% off Pique's Radiant Skin Duo plus a free starter kit with link piquelife.com/tbs.

The Big Silence Merch | Visit thebigsilence.com/merch to shop The Big Silence apparel, and start a conversation with us! All of your purchase goes to support mental health resources.

131. Case Kenny on Redefining Mindfulness & Embracing Vulnerability Nov 20, 2024

Show notes

Case Kenny, creator of The New Mindset Journal and host of New Mindset, Who Dis?, redefines mindfulness by combining journaling, breathwork, and music into a lively, accessible practice. His unique “golden retriever style”—warm, curious, and open—makes self-growth relatable for millions. In this episode, Case delves into the power of vulnerability, reimagines mindfulness, and shares insights on maintaining independence in relationships. He also unpacks how language shapes identity and offers practical tools to overcome imposter syndrome. For anyone looking to embrace a mindful, joyful life, this episode is a must-listen.

(00:00:00) Introductions

(00:03:51) Case’s Journey to Embracing Vulnerability, Authenticity & The Art of Being Present

(00:15:17) Maintaining Independence In Relationships & Redefining Mindfulness

(00:27:17) Case’s Daily Writing Process & The Power of Language in Self-Discovery

(00:34:53) Overcoming Criticism, Imposter Syndrome & Embracing a Joyful Mindset

Click here for full show notes

Guest Info:

• Website: newmindsetwhodis.com

• Instagram: case.kenny

• Read: That’s Bold of You by Case Kenny

• YouTube: Case Kenny

• Podcast: New Mindset, Who Dis? With Case Kenny

Resources:

• Start a conversation in your The Big Silence merch: thebigsilence.com/collections/shop-all

• 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

• Thank you to our partners! Go to thebigsilence.com/partners for special offers for our listeners

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.

Mentioned in this episode:

Act + Acre | Holidays have started early! Visit ActandAcre.com now for their sitewide Black Friday Sale. Use code ‘TBS30’ for a special discount just for Big Silence listeners. That's ‘TBS30’ code for 30% off.

Therapy for All Donations | Give now at thebigsilence.com/donate to bring change and help increase access to mental healthcare! Your donations supports Therapy for All and increases access to mental health resources.

130. You Are Enough: Teaching Kids Self-Love & Resilience with The Kindness Campaign CEO Andra Leimandt Nov 13, 2024

Show notes

Andra Liemandt, founder and CEO of The Kindness Campaign®, is transforming kids' lives by teaching self-love and emotional health from an early age. Sparked by a tragedy in her friend's family, Andra’s mission is to empower kids with tools for emotional resilience and kindness. Through art, music, and programs like the “magic mirror,” The Kindness Campaign partners with schools to create safe spaces where children can learn to understand and express their emotions. Join us as we dive into Andra’s advice for empowering a kinder, more resilient generation with mental health tools that work for adults, too!

(00:00:00) Introductions

(00:03:21) The Kindness Campaign’s Mission to Promote Mental Health & Body Kindness

(00:17:25) Passion-Driven Learning: Helping Kids Find Their Passions & Navigate Challenges

(00:26:00) TKC’s In-School Programs & Tools to Support Mental Health

(00:34:24) Building Self-Love through Gratitude, Creativity & Finding Your Superpower

(00:44:01) The Inspiration Behind TKC’s Bracelet-Making Volunteer Program

Click here for full show notes

Guest Info:

• Website: tkckindness.org

• Andra’s Instagram: @andraliemandt

• The Kindness Campaign Instagram: @tkckindness

• Read: Enoughie Finds His Superpower

Resources:

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

• Therapy For All: Resources for those in need

• Thank you to our partners! Go to thebigsilence.com/partners for special offers for our listeners

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.

Mentioned in this episode:

The Big Silence Merch | Visit thebigsilence.com/merch to shop The Big Silence apparel, and start a conversation with us! All of your purchase goes to support mental health resources.

Pique Life | Get up to 20% off Pique's Radiant Skin Duo plus a free starter kit with link piquelife.com/tbs.

129. Living Authentically Child-Free: Facing Societal Pressure & Breaking Stigmas w/ Ruby Warrington Nov 06, 2024

Show notes

If you’ve ever faced the unsolicited question, “When are you having kids?” or the comment, “But you’d be such a great mother,” this episode is here to offer support and perspective. Karena sits down with Ruby Warrington, author, podcast host, and creator of the Sober Curious movement, whose new book and podcast, Women Without Kids, is reframing what it means to choose a child-free life. In this conversation, Ruby and Karena explore how complex family histories, including experiences of parentification, shaped their views on motherhood. They discuss how both couples have navigated the decision to remain child-free, managed familial and societal pressures and navigated the isolating “othering” that many child-free women experience. This episode encourages open, compassionate dialogue that destigmatizes and honors women’s choices, celebrating the courage it takes to live authentically and embrace a path that is deeply personal and uniquely fulfilling.

(00:00:00) Introductions

(00:04:51) How The Way We Were Mothered Influences the Decision to Mother

(00:17:57) Normalizing The Nuances of Being Child-Free

(00:27:16) Facing Genetic Challenges & Generational Stigmas

(00:42:22) Creating Chosen Family, Embracing Empathy & Redefining Norms

Click here for full show notes

Guest Info:

• Website: rubywarrington.com

• Instagram: @rubywarrington

• Podcast: Women Without Kids

• Read: Women Without Kids by Ruby Warrington

Resources:

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

• Therapy For All: Resources for those in need

• Thank you to our partners! Go to thebigsilence.com/partners for special offers for our listeners

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.

Mentioned in this episode:

Pique Life | Get up to 20% off Pique's Radiant Skin Duo plus a free starter kit with link piquelife.com/tbs.

128. Getting to the Core of Codependency & Finding Liberated Love with Mark Groves Oct 30, 2024

Show notes

Mark Groves is here to discuss finding liberated love by understanding attachment styles, uncovering blind spots that prevent healthy relationships, and breaking free from codependency. If you’re not familiar with his work, Mark is a Human Connection Specialist, founder of Create the Love, and host of the Mark Groves Podcast. His work bridges the academic and human aspects of connection, inviting us to explore the good, the bad, the ugly, and the beautiful sides of relationships. His new book, Liberated Love, co-authored with his wife, is out now!

In this conversation, Mark breaks down secure, anxious, and avoidant attachment styles, drawing connections between our childhood wounds, attachment styles, and relationship patterns. He guides us to uncover core wounds leading to codependency, and how to build comfort with setting boundaries and trusting our choices. Mark also shares why he left social media for six months, and how it can affect mental and nervous system health.

Tune in for motivating advice on shifting victim mentality, breaking shame cycles, and creating meaningful change in your life and relationships.

(00:00:00) Introductions

(00:03:29) Turning Heartbreak Into A Self-Development Journey

(00:20:45) Why Mark Left Social Media

(00:35:35) Understanding Attachment Styles & Quitting Codependency

(00:44:13) Uncovering Common Blind Spots in Relationships

(00:56:14) Embracing the Path to Growth

Click here for full show notes

Guest Info:

• Read: Liberated Love by Mark Groves

• Website: markgroves.com

• Podcast: markgroves.com/podcast

Resources:

• 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.

Mentioned in this episode:

Let our sponsor BetterHelp connect you to a therapist who can support you - all from the comfort of your own home. Visit betterhelp.com/thebigsilence and enjoy a special discount on your first month.
If you have any questions about the brand relating to how the therapists are licensed, their privacy policy, or therapist compensation model, check out this FAQ: betterhelp.com/your-questions-answered.

Act + Acre | Visit ActandAcre.com and take the quiz on their website to see what hair & scalp system is right for you. Use code TBS20 for 20% off your purchase.

127.Why Anxiety Isn’t Your Fault: Tools to Reduce Stress & Heal Trauma with Dr. John Delony Oct 23, 2024

Show notes

If you have anxiety, Dr. John Delony wants you to know it’s not your fault. We live in a world that constantly threatens our nervous system, and in this episode we unpack how we can start healing. Dr. Delony is a two-time #1 national bestselling author and the host of The Dr. John Delony Show. With two PhDs and over 20 years of experience in counseling, crisis response, and higher education, he has dedicated his life to helping people navigate tough decisions, improve their relationships, and understand they are worth being well.

This episode is sponsored by Ketone-IQ. Save 30% off your first subscription order and receive a free six-pack of Ketone-IQ at ketone.com/TBS.

In our conversation, Dr. Delony opens up about the practices he uses to manage stress as the Dean of Students at multiple universities. We dive into some of the biggest challenges people face today, from feeling overwhelmed by anxiety to navigating relationships as we grow and evolve. Dr. Delony provides tools for healthy communication, tips for avoiding the trap of victim identity, and insights on how financial stress can impact our mental health. Don’t forget to check out his latest book, Building a Non-Anxious Life for more support and education!

(00:00:00) Introductions

(00:03:51) Advice for Stress Management & Creating Community

(00:15:35) Understanding & Addressing Causes of Modern Anxiety

(00:27:00) Overcoming Trauma & Avoiding Victim Identity

(00:32:44) Building Strong Relationships: Keys to Growth, Intimacy & Communication

(00:55:59) Life Hacks that Boost Connection & Mental Health

Click here for full show notes

Guest Info:

• Website: ramseysolutions.com/john-delony

• YouTube: The Dr. John Delony Show

• Instagram: @johndelony

Resources:

• Follow Karena Dawn on Instagram: @karenadawn

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

• 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.

Mentioned in this episode:

Ketone IQ | Visit ketone.com/TBS for 30% off your first subscription!

126. Feel Good About Your Hair: Helen Reavey’s Expert Tips for Scalp & Hair Health Oct 16, 2024

Show notes

In this episode, I sit down with Helen Reavey, founder of Act + Acre, celebrity hairstylist, and trichologist. After years of working with top names in the industry, Helen created Act + Acre, the world’s first Cold Processed® hair wellness brand focused on scalp health. Visit Act + Acre and take the quiz on their website to see what hair & scalp system is right for you. Use code TBS20 for 20% off your purchase.

Helen explains why caring for your scalp is just as important as your skin and dives into the science of scalp aging (which happens six times faster than your face!), the scalp's microbiome, and how stress impacts hair loss. Helen also shares tips on how often to wash your hair and whether you can train your scalp to go longer between washes. Plus, she offers advice for women in their 40s looking to strengthen fine hair, sharing her favorite products for a holistic hair care routine. If you're ready to improve your hair and scalp health, this episode is packed with actionable tips!

(00:00:00) Introductions

(00:06:56) Why Scalp Health Matters

(00:12:55) Managing Hair Loss & The Ideal Hair Wash Routine

(00:20:09) Meditation, Morning Routines & Holistic Scalp Health

(00:29:44) Helen’s Holistic Hair & Scalp Regimen for Stronger, Healthier Hair

Click here for full show notes

Guest Info:

• Website: actandacre.com

• Instagram: @helenreavey

Resources:

• Start a conversation in your The Big Silence merch: thebigsilence.com/collections/shop-all

• 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

• Thank you to our partners! Go to thebigsilence.com/partners for special offers for our listeners

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.

Mentioned in this episode:

125. Hormones, Health & Healing Trauma: What Every Woman Needs to Know About Perimenopause with Esther Blum Oct 09, 2024

Show notes

By 2030, 1.2 billion of us will be in menopause, yet many still feel lost navigating this transition. That’s where today’s guest, Esther Blum, comes in. A Registered Dietitian, menopause expert and bestselling author, Esther has spent 27 years helping women thrive through menopause. Esther empowers women with the tools they need to master menopause, from balancing hormones to advocating for themselves with their doctors. In this episode, she shares advice on hormone replacement therapy (HRT), tips for managing the “menopot” body shape through nutrition and strength training, and the role of trauma in perimenopause. Remember, you don’t have to suffer through perimenopause! You deserve to feel your best in every stage of life.

(00:03:54) How to Advocate for Yourself at the Doctor’s Office

(00:15:32) Pelvic Floor, Vaginal Care, and Gut Health During Perimenopause

(00:22:36) Optimize Your Nutrition & Workouts for Perimenopause

(00:39:27) How Trauma Impacts Perimenopause & Tools for Healing

(00:47:09) 5 Habits to Feel Your Best During Perimenopause

Click here for full show notes

Guest Info:

• Website: estherblum.com

• Instagram: @gorgeousesther

Resources:

• Start a conversation in your The Big Silence merch: thebigsilence.com/collections/shop-all

• 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

• Thank you to our partners! Go to thebigsilence.com/partners for special offers for our listeners

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.

Mentioned in this episode:

The Big Silence Merch | Visit thebigsilence.com/merch to shop The Big Silence apparel, and start a conversation with us! All of your purchase goes to support mental health resources.

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