The Big Silence

Here to share how “good stress” can fuel growth and how to combat the chronic stress that drives disease is Jeff Krasno, co-founder and CEO of Commune and author of Good Stress. In this episode, Jeff takes us through his journey—from founding the global festival movement Wanderlust to facing health and identity challenges after leaving the company. He explains how practices like intermittent fasting, cold plunging, resistance training, and stress management helped him reverse diabetes, lose 60 pounds, and reclaim his health at 50.

Jeff also opens up about his collaboration with Oprah Winfrey to bring free yoga and meditation to underserved communities through Commune, and how these experiences shaped his belief in the power of mindfulness and connection. He introduces the concept of “good stress,” showing how short-term challenges can help the body adapt and thrive, and offers practical tips to combat the effects of chronic stress. Plus, Jeff shares his best sleep hacks and a reminder that it’s never too late to make small changes that lead to big results!

(00:00:00) Introductions

(00:04:31) Processing Grief & Trauma through Mindfulness

(00:11:35) From Wanderlust to Rock Bottom: Navigating Career Highs & Lows

(00:21:40) Creating A Wellbeing Masterclass with Oprah & Best Sleep Practices

(00:40:27) Good Stress versus Bad Stress & Healing Metabolic Dysfunction

(00:49:23) Cold Therapy, Resistance Training & Creating Community

Click here for full show notes

Guest Info:

• Website: onecommune.com

• Instagram: @jeffkrasno

• Read: Good Stress by Jeff Krasno

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!

Welcome to 2025: New you, old you, but always improving! I’m kicking off the year with my right-hand woman, Deseray Cummings, from the stunning shores of Punta de Mita, Mexico. Together, we share our takes on New Year pressure —breaking down why resolutions can sometimes backfire and how to shift the focus to sustainable habits that truly nourish your body and mind. Spoiler: it’s not about 75-day challenges or burning yourself out!

Deseray and I also answer your community questions about setting boundaries, practicing self-kindness, and finding balance in a world that demands “all or nothing.” From prioritizing sleep to embracing the messy ups and downs of life (hello, hormones!), we’re serving up real talk and practical advice to help you feel your best. Plus, we’re sharing a sneak peek at exciting new updates for the Tone It Up app and how to win a dreamy wellness retreat. Let go of the pressure, and start your year with grace and intention—you’ve got this!

(00:00:00) Introductions

(00:00:50) Ditching Perfection for Sustainable Growth

(00:09:32) How to Improve Your Sleep Habits & Set Better Boundaries

(00:16:51) 2025 Motto: Be Kind

Click here for full show notes

Guest Info:

• Instagram: @_deseray

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:

Timeline Longevity | Timeline is offering 10% off your first order of Mitopure. Go to timeline.com/TBS.

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.

At just 16, Elle Kristine is revolutionizing teen dating and addressing mental health challenges with a passion fueled by her own experiences. Recognizing the growing need for guidance, Elle created AskElle, an AI-powered app designed to help teens build social skills, navigate relationships, and access expert-vetted advice. In this episode, Elle highlights the unique pressures teens face today, from confronting damaging and unrealistic perceptions of relationships to the challenges posed by social media-driven dating. Elle’s research and unique perspective provide actionable tools to empower teens and equip parents to support them navigate dating and relationships in the modern world.

(00:00:00) Introductions

(00:04:29) Exposing Teen Dating Challenges & Creating AI Solutions

(00:13:06) Overcoming Bad Dating Advice & The Fear of Rejection

(00:22:40) Helping Teens Develop Social Skills & Confidence

(00:32:52) Teen Dating Red Flags & Social Media Boundaries

Click here for full show notes

Guest Info:

• App: AskElle

• TikTok: @elle.kristine

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:

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

Discover the transformative power of your heart brain for whole body harmony with Kimberly Snyder, wellness expert and author of The Hidden Power of the Five Hearts. Kimberly reveals how heart coherence—aligning your heart, brain, and nervous system—can boost your health, emotional intelligence, and clarity. Drawing on groundbreaking research, she explains how this connection improves immunity, hormonal balance, and gut health while offering actionable tools to move out of fight-or-flight mode and into peace and presence. This episode is a must-listen for anyone ready to harness the heart’s power to create lasting, meaningful change.

(00:00:00) Introductions

(00:04:18 ) The Hidden Power of the Heart & The Five Stages

(00:14:11) Grow Your Coherence Capacity: Guided Heart Aligned Meditation

(00:24:06) The Science Behind Heart Coherence & Hormones

(00:31:52) Harnessing Heart Intelligence for Whole Body Harmony

(00:40:00) Kimberly’s Wellness Journey & Overcoming Challenges with Heart Tools

Click here for full show notes

Guest Info:

• Website: mysolluna.com

• Instagram: @_kimberlysnyder

• Podcast: Feel Good Podcast

• Read: The Hidden Power of the Five Hearts by Kimberly Snyder

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:

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...

Daisy Auger-Domínguez, a workplace strategist and author of Inclusion Revolution and Burnt Out to Lit Up, has dedicated her career to creating healthier, more inclusive workplaces. Drawing from her leadership roles at companies like Google, Disney, and Vice Media, Daisy shares her personal journey through burnout, how it impacted her mind, body, and family, and the tools that brought her back to balance. We explore the true meaning of burnout, how to spot the signs, and actionable steps for recovery. Daisy’s story offers powerful insights on finding your light, showing up authentically, and driving meaningful change both in and out of the workplace.

(00:00:00) Introductions

(00:03:24) The Cost of Burnout & Sustained Stress

(00:11:12) Daisy’s Career Journey: From Burnt Out to Lit Up

(00:26:12) Practicing Compassionate Leadership & Identifying Signs of Burnout

(00:34:07) Building Inclusive & Equitable Workplaces

(00:42:48) Ways to Offer Support & Cultivate Joy at Work

Click here for full show notes

Guest Info:

• Website: daisyauger-dominguez.com

• Instagram: @daisyaugerdominguez

• LinkedIn: Daisy Auger-Domínguez

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:

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.

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.

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.

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...

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....