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In this heartfelt episode of Look At Me Now, Alexis sits down with Karena Dawn—fitness entrepreneur, author, and mental health advocate—to talk about turning pain into purpose. From growing up with a mother living with schizophrenia to finding her own path through fitness, meditation, and community, Karena’s story is one of resilience and transformation.

Together, they explore the power of intuition, the importance of sharing our stories, and the creation of Tone It Up and The Big Silence Foundation. Karena opens up about her “decade of darkness,” the pivotal moments that changed her life’s trajectory, and the practices that continue to ground her today. This is a conversation about healing, strength, and what it means to choose joy.

(05:12) – Growing up with a mother diagnosed with schizophrenia

(09:13) – A life-changing talk with her father: “You are not your mother”

(15:32) – Rediscovering joy through fitness and running

(24:47) – Building Tone It Up and the power of community

(32:06) – Daily practices that keep her grounded

(39:58) – What burnout taught her about balance

(45:29) – Writing her memoir The Big Silence

(52:14) – How sharing her story helps break stigma

(59:43) – Final reflection: choosing joy and giving back

Connect with Karena:Instagram: @karenadawn Website: thebigsilence.com Tone It Up: toneitup.com

Follow Alexis @alexis_artin Learn more at AlexisArtin.com Save 50% on any SoulSway experience with code LAMN50

This is an Operation Podcast production