A Journey from Trauma to Advocate for Mental Health and Media

Karen Comba

Karen Comba is from Castle Rock Colorado. 

She tells us that, “I am originally from Nebraska in the US. My husband and I have two children and four grandchildren. I have had many interesting jobs in my career. Now, I am in production of my TV Show called The Karen Comba Show. I am a bestselling author, International Speaker and I am in process with a group of highly educated people developing programs for youth, parents and educators on Mental Health Awareness addressing every issue and bringing solutions. My Book is on my mother’s mental illness Schizophrenia, it’s my memoir of me growing up in the home and what happens as a result of no help. Which brings me to my mission being a Mental Health Advocate.”

What were your initial years of growing up like? Tell us about your life before starting your corporate journey/venture/initiative. 

I feel there is so much I could type and not enough room. So, I will give you my story in short version. It’s the 1950’s when Karen’s father Richard, returns from the Korean War in time to marry Evelyn, his high school sweetheart. He is a talented farmer; she is a brilliant teacher. Together, they sow the seeds of their own American dream. but on this thriving farm in rural Nebraska, a dark secret begins to take hold. Karen was four when her mother first saw bullet holes scattered across the eastern side of their home. More frightening still was the fact that no one else could see them. Karen’s story of growing up the eldest daughter of a mentally ill mother is a memoir of rare power, a harrowing and intimate portrait of the far-reaching generational effects of severe mental illness. Now, I went on never giving up on myself but struggling to find my way with so many twists and turns. At the age of 60 I started to feel I was chosen to write my journey and do whatever I could to help children. Which brings me here today, starting my next chapter.

Tell us something about your initiative/business. What is it about and how is it helpful for people?

My career has brought me to Los Angeles Tribune TV wanting me to be the host of my own TV show which is in production. Guests will be able to be interviewed by me, also if they want to co-host with me as well. I am bringing awareness to authors, businesspeople, or anyone that has a story to tell on what they are doing that the world needs to know. Sharing people in the spotlight that may never get the chance to. It’s also a news feature as well and just a lot of fun. As far as my Mental Health Programs, that will be revealed on how people may participate in that as well. My husband runs his separate business which is Commercial Construction.

While the global pandemic of COVID-19 is associated primarily with adversities, it has also brought about a true boom in startups, with successful entrepreneurship in many countries. The pandemic has impacted all of us in one way or another. Would you like to share your experience on a personal and professional level?

Yes, on a personal level, we are so lucky to have my husband still here as he did catch COVID but survived. On a personal level, my journey kept going full steam. It actually worked out because everyone wanted to do meetings by zoom so we kept pushing through. It was so strange to us, but our Commercial Construction work never stopped. We actually became so busy because now we could go into the buildings and get the work done because everyone was working from home.

What has been the response of the users/consumers towards your venture?

After my book came out, the response was overwhelming. It took off in the US and in other countries. Teachers were reaching out telling me to keep going and to bring help to them in the schools. It has never slowed down which, I am so blessed to have doors opening in so many different ways.

How has your life changed because of your initiative/venture?

My goal of helping children started over 30 years ago. I realize now that I am doing what I was put on this earth to do. I have no intention of slowing down, I will keep pursuing my quest till I can’t. It has been and continues to be the most fulfilling task of my life. Watching the children’s smiles as I talk with them, and tears of joy for saying You’re Not Alone, Breaking the Silence of all the emotional pain people are hanging on to is my reward.

Do you have anyone who is the biggest support system in your life? Please let us know.

That starts with my husband Curt, our children and grandchildren so proud of the work I am doing. On my other hand are the people who are listening to me, and the people who are saying how do we bring solutions, teaming up to bring help. My agent, friend and producer David Fagan sees me and believes in me so much. I don’t find anyone not on board with my quest. I am truly blessed.

Would you like to share with our young budding women entrepreneurs the change you would like to see in the world if given an opportunity? OR Share a motivational message for the audience/women who are reading this.

Yes, To all the women in the world. Please, please don’t give up on your mission or what you feel you want to do. Now, I am 66 and going strong, but my wish for you is for you to reach out and connect with anyone that you need to for your goal, your business, your quest in life. Don’t wait to be my age to achieve your mission. People are good, and you just have to say out loud what you want to accomplish and go for it. If you feel stuck or don’t know how or where ASK!!! Someone is always there to help you. Remember this is not a dress rehearsal you don’t get to do this life over and over again. I will say find your quest your passion, it will not seem like work if you’re loving what you do. It doesn’t matter what job or business you choose as long as you’re happy and living your best life.

Get in touch with her: