Connecting the Dots with Karen

Connecting the Dots is a heartfelt and thought-provoking podcast where real stories meet purpose. Each episode brings together voices, experiences, and perspectives that help us better understand life’s bigger picture—one conversation at a time. In this episode, we shine a light on Moms Not Forgotten of Illinois, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting and honoring birth moms through gifts of hope and...

In honor of World Down Syndrome Day, this episode of Connecting the Dots brings together voices that remind us of the beauty, strength, and individuality within the Down syndrome community. This special conversation features parents and individuals living with Down syndrome who share their stories—moments of joy, challenges, advocacy, and the everyday experiences that shape their lives. Through ho...

VALENCIA KEY is not just Lia's middle and last name, the meaning of each word defines the mission and heart of VALENCIA KEY Jewelry. VALENCIA means STRONG / BRAVEKEY means Crucial Importance / To Unlock. VALENCIA KEY is how we show up in this world. Lia created this jewelry to be beautiful, visual reminders to use LIGHT, JOY, LOVE, GRATITUDE and PEACE as our GUIDING STARS. These principles allow u...

Connecting the Dots: Conversations with Creators In this episode of Connecting the Dots: Conversations with Creators, Jenny Rana, Stephanie Villanueva, and Taylor Angelini come together for an insightful conversation on navigating the evolving world of social media content creation. They share perspectives on creative strategy, building authentic community, and adapting as creators grow. From behi...

In this episode of Connecting the Dots, Karen Owens sits down with the women behind Coco’s Boutique and Elite Laser & Skin Spa — two locally loved, women-owned small businesses making a real impact in the community. They share their journey into entrepreneurship, the challenges and wins of managing their own brands, and how they stay rooted in service, empowerment, and giving back to Crystal L...

In this episode of Connecting the Dots with Karen Owens, we sit down with Maebelle Obispo, Co-Founder and Executive Director of It’s Our Little Story Organization, NFP. Maebelle shares the heartfelt mission behind her organization — empowering and educating abused, neglected, and at-risk children to break the cycle and rewrite their own stories. Together, we explore how community support, awarenes...

In this episode of Connecting the Dots, host Karen Owens sits down with Andres Lopez, the innovative mind behind DuckADiet.bottle.com — a brand redefining how we think about nutrition, focus, and balanced living. Andres shares his journey from concept to creation, the inspiration behind his wellness brand, and how small daily choices can have a big impact on our energy and mindset. Join Karen and...

On today's episode we have Sharon Fulgenzi who is a Child & Family Advocate who has been Championing for Vulnerable Families & Children for over 20 years. Her current role is a Director of Development for Safe Families for Children, a national charity based in Chicago that has chapters in over 90 cities across the country! Safe Families preventatively comes alongside families facing cr...

Connecting the Dots is all about real talk, honest stories, and those lightbulb moments in life. you Each episode dives into little things (and big things) that shape us- whether it's conversation that changed your perspective or a choice that led you somewhere unexpected. It's like a chat with a good friend who helps you see how it all fits together. Come as you are and let's connect...

Connecting the Dots is all about real talk, honest stories, and those lightbulb moments in life. you Each episode dives into little things (and big things) that shape us- whether it's conversation that changed your perspective or a choice that led you somewhere unexpected. It's like a chat with a good friend who helps you see how it all fits together. Come as you are and let's connect...