Episode Details

Karena and Tone It Up's Head of Marketing Deseray answer some of YOUR biggest questions. 

Welcome to episode two of Tone It Down, recorded in Palm Springs, California. In this special Ask Me Anything episode, Karena is joined by Deseray Cummings, Tone It Up’s Head of Marketing and a longtime member of the community since 2010.

Together, they answer real questions submitted by the Tone It Up community— covering perimenopause and menopause, hormone imbalances, PMDD, and why the workouts that once worked may not feel the same anymore. They talk honestly about cardio vs. strength training, navigating body changes, and what to do when you’re told your hormones are “normal” but something still feels off.

Karena also shares a look at what’s ahead for Tone It Up, including the evolution of the brand and what’s coming next with her protein and nutrition line, and how those plans are being shaped by what the community truly needs in this season of life.

All of the questions featured in this episode were submitted directly to Karena via speakpipe.com/KarenaDawn, and this conversation marks the beginning of a regular community Q&A series on Tone It Down— because these honest, real-life questions deserve space and thoughtful conversation.

This episode is about understanding your body, adapting with compassion, and finding confidence as you move into what’s next.

Have a question you want answered next? Submit it anytime at speakpipe.com/KarenaDawn.

(00:00) Meet Deseray: From Superfan to Head of Marketing

• Deseray has been a Tone It Up girl since 2010—growing up with Karena and the community

• When you love what you do, it doesn't feel like work

(07:03) Listener Marie Asks: Where is the Menopause Support?

• Marie shares she's been a fan since 2014 and is now going through menopause, feeling lost about workouts and nutrition that support this phase

• Karena gets emotional about bringing Tone It Up home and promises more conversations about perimenopause and menopause

• Topics to be covered: weight gain, insomnia, and early menopause experiences

(18:49) Strength Training, Walking, and the Workouts We Need Now

• A listener shares her journey through perimenopause during the pandemic: cardio isn't the answer anymore

• Karena's current focus: strength training, inclined walking, and building muscle as we age

• The New Year, New TI-YOU challenge reflects this shift—Stef crushed a 35-minute strength workout that's all about lifting heavy

• Protein and weights are non-negotiable now—Sandy's always in the back of Deseray's head reminding her to eat those hard-boiled eggs

• Balance is key: low-impact, walking, strength, and doing what makes you feel good