Meet Dr. Dawn Whitaker | Founder & Wellness Advocate

We had the good fortune of connecting with Dr. Dawn Whitaker and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Dr. Dawn, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
“When I started my business, I knew I wanted to make a positive impact on the lives of athletes, especially former athletes. So many face emotional challenges after leaving their sports careers—things like losing their sense of identity, dealing with anxiety, or struggling with depression—but there wasn’t much support tailored to their unique experiences in a way that felt approachable or non-threatening. I kept asking myself, ‘Who’s really helping these former athletes with their mental health?’

While trying to find solutions for a friend—a former NFL player struggling with depression and alcohol abuse—I discovered equine-assisted therapy and realized its potential to help him. Horses have an incredible ability to help humans reflect and process emotions in a natural, unforced way. They can even slow your heart rate, so just being in their presence is calming, making the whole experience even more effective. I noticed there were equine-assisted therapy programs for veterans and first responders dealing with PTSD and emotional trauma, but none for former athletes—even though they face similar struggles. My thought was that if this could help my friend, it could also help other former athletes dealing with similar challenges.

Starting WellEquined was a leap of faith. I didn’t have all the answers, but I knew this was something I needed to do. I began connecting with equine therapy facilities and wellness practitioners, figuring things out step by step as I went. My goal was to create a safe space where athletes could reflect, heal, and rebuild their resilience after sports.

After much planning, trial and error, and building meaningful partnerships, WellEquined officially launched this past summer with its successful inaugural program. We welcomed a small, intimate group of former athletes, providing them with a transformative experience that combined equine therapy, opportunities for deep self-reflection, and Harmonyum sessions—a holistic healing practice that works with the nervous system to restore balance. They left with a renewed sense of confidence, clarity, and the desire to make positive changes in their lives.

Seeing the impact WellEquined has had makes every challenge along the way worth it. I created this program to give former athletes the support they need to take charge of their emotional wellbeing and thrive beyond sports, and my vision is to expand its reach to make a difference in even more lives.”

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
“My professional journey has taken me through so many different worlds—corporate finance, broadcasting, higher education, and now entrepreneurship. Each step along the way has shaped who I am and led me to where I am today.

Early in my career, I found myself working in finance at the brokerage house PaineWebber. Honestly, I’m not even sure how that happened—I had just graduated from UCLA with a Sociology degree—but I’ve always been good at math, so it kind of made sense. Over time, I earned my Series 7, Series 63, and Series 65 licenses, which allowed me to advise clients on investments, manage portfolios, and step into leadership roles in wealth management. I held positions ranging from portfolio analyst to registered investment advisor, and after years of hard work, I earned an ownership stake in the boutique wealth management firm, The Resnick Group. When our firm was acquired by Salomon Smith Barney (now Morgan Stanley), I learned a lot about adapting to major organizational changes or really, adapting to change, in general. I like to call it ‘rolling with the punches,’ and I think I’ve gotten pretty good at it over the years.

That phase of my career taught me a lot about discipline, resilience, and building meaningful relationships. It was also a time when the finance industry was heavily male-dominated. I remember being at conferences and industry events where I was always one of only a few women in the room—and usually the only African American woman. I think those experiences really shaped me, teaching me how to navigate challenges and hold my own in environments where I wasn’t always expected to be.

As the stock market crash of 2002 unfolded, I found myself ready for a career change. I transitioned to broadcasting and journalism, working for the City of Long Beach’s local TV station. It was a sharp pivot from managing stock portfolios, but it introduced me to an entirely new world. I covered events like the Long Beach Grand Prix, which brought over 190,000 people to the city, and the annual Chinese Dragon Boat Races. I interviewed celebrities and local politicians, hosted the City’s Christmas Parade, and co-hosted ‘Pep Talk’, an in-studio sports show that let me dive into my passion for sports. It really was just a lot of fun for me, and very different from the rigid, corporate world I came from.

In 2008, I stepped into yet another exciting world when my former business partner, Erica Hill, and I made history as the first African American female owners of a NASCAR team, Strong Racing. That experience was about more than racing—it was about breaking barriers in the motorsports industry. Once again, I found myself in spaces—or in this case, on racetracks—where I wasn’t expected to be. Our work helped open doors for representation in the industry, paving the way for the first solo African American female NASCAR team owner more than a decade later—a milestone I’m incredibly proud to have contributed to.

My journey into athlete transition and mental health began with a pivotal moment in 2012: the tragic death of former NFL player Junior Seau. It sparked a desire to understand the challenges athletes face after retirement, particularly football players. This marked the beginning of a decade-long research journey. I focused on factors influencing the quality of transition and barriers athletes face when adjusting to life after sport. Through my research, which exclusively involved former NFL players, I developed a deep understanding of their experiences.

Getting to where I am today hasn’t been easy. Navigating male-dominated spaces in finance and NASCAR taught me the importance of building strong relationships, adapting quickly, and taking calculated risks. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that resilience and adaptability are key to creating meaningful change—not just for yourself, but for the people you hope to inspire.

Through all of these experiences, I’ve realized that every challenge and career shift has prepared me for the work I’m most passionate about today: helping others prioritize their wellbeing and create fulfilling, balanced lives.”

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
“If my best friend were visiting LA for a week, I’d want them to experience everything that makes this city special—from great food to unforgettable views to hidden gems that showcase LA’s character. Here’s how I’d plan the week:

Day 1: Malibu Chillin’
We’d start with a scenic drive up the Pacific Coast Highway, taking in those iconic coastal views. Breakfast would be at Malibu Farm on the pier, followed by a visit to Solstice Canyon Trail in Malibu, a beautiful hike that leads to a waterfall. For lunch, we’d stop at Neptune’s Net, a laid-back seafood spot perfect for enjoying ocean vibes. After lunch, we’d relax at one of Malibu’s quieter beaches like Zuma Beach. If we’re in the mood for something indoors, we could visit the Getty Villa to admire its art collections and gardens. Dinner would be a highlight at Geoffrey’s Malibu, where the views and the food are equally stunning.

Day 2: Exploring the Eastside
I’d take them to Griffith Park early in the morning for a walk and some views of the city (and maybe the Hollywood sign). Breakfast would be at All Time in Los Feliz, known for its cozy charm. Then, we’d explore Silver Lake—stopping for coffee at Intelligentsia and checking out quirky shops in the area. We’d enjoy lunch at Pine & Crane in Silver Lake, a casual spot serving delicious Taiwanese dishes with a modern twist. After lunch, we’d attend a pottery class at Still Life Ceramics in the nearby Arts District, where we could try our hand at creating something unique while soaking in the studio’s relaxing atmosphere. For dinner, we’d head to Little Dom’s for classic Italian-American comfort food.

Day 3: A Day Downtown
We’d start with breakfast at Blu Jam Cafe before heading to The Broad Museum for some modern art and photos with Urban Light at LACMA. For lunch, we’d head to Redbird, a stunning spot in the heart of downtown with fantastic food. Then, we’d explore Chinatown or stop by the Arts District for boutique shopping. Dinner would be at Bestia, a downtown favorite for Italian cuisine. We’d wrap up the evening with drinks and stunning views at Get Lost, a chic rooftop spot with a trendy vibe.

Day 4: Santa Monica and Venice Beach Vibes
We’d kick off the day at Open Studio in Venice for an early morning breathwork class, followed by breakfast at Huckleberry Bakery & Café. Afterward, we’d wander along Santa Monica Beach and stop by the pier to soak in the views. Lunch would be at Gjusta in Venice—a bakery that always feels like a hidden gem. We’d spend the afternoon strolling along Abbot Kinney Boulevard to explore the shops and galleries, then wrap up the day with dinner at The Rose Venice.

Day 5: A Beverly Hills Affair
This would be our fancy day. We’d start with breakfast at The Beverly Hills Hotel and then wander Rodeo Drive to window shop and people-watch. Lunch would be at The Ivy, a classic LA spot with a glamorous vibe. In the afternoon, we’d explore Greystone Mansion & Gardens for its history and serene beauty. For dinner, we’d visit Avra Beverly Hills, an upscale Mediterranean restaurant known for its fresh seafood, warm ambiance, and modern elegance.

Day 6: Nature and Relaxation
This would be a more relaxed day. We’d start with a morning hike at Eaton Canyon for its scenic trails and stunning waterfall. Afterward, we’d head to Honeybee Cafe in La Cañada Flintridge for a healthy and delicious breakfast. Then, we’d visit Descanso Gardens to enjoy the tranquility and stunning landscapes. In the afternoon we’d unwind with a luxurious massage at Chuan Spa at The Langham Huntington, just a short drive away. Dinner would be at Perle in South Pasadena, a charming French bistro known for its cozy atmosphere and classic dishes like duck confit and escargot.

Day 7: A Perfect Farewell
For the last day, we’d keep it simple. Breakfast at Joan’s on Third would be a must for its bustling, welcoming vibe. Then, we’d head to The Getty Center to enjoy the art, gardens, and one last view of LA. We’d have lunch at The Restaurant at The Getty Center, which offers fresh, seasonal dishes with panoramic views of the city. After lunch, we’d visit The Brentwood Country Mart to explore its unique shops and enjoy a relaxed, charming atmosphere. Dinner would be a memorable farewell at Tavern in Brentwood, a chic yet relaxed spot that perfectly blends California flavors with an elegant atmosphere.”

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
“There are so many people and experiences that have shaped my journey, but I’d like to dedicate my shoutout to the equine therapy community. In particular, Dr. Val, Hesper, Julie, Tiffany, Dr. Steidle, and Dr. Aukerman have been incredibly generous with their knowledge and support, helping me understand the depth and potential of equine-assisted therapy. Their passion for this work has been truly inspiring.

I also want to recognize the exceptional Jessica Gandolfi, founder of Harmonyum LA, whose care and support have been instrumental in bringing WellEquined to life. She’s been a guiding force from the start, and this program simply wouldn’t have happened without her input.

I have to give recognition to the former athletes I’ve had the privilege to work with. Their courage to step into a space of vulnerability and self-reflection is what makes this work so powerful. Seeing their transformations reminds me why I started this journey in the first place.

Lastly, I want to acknowledge my friend—the former NFL player who inspired me to explore equine therapy in the first place. Without his story and struggles, I might never have discovered this incredible path. It’s a powerful reminder of how one person’s experience can inspire meaningful change.”

Website: https://www.wellequined.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.dawnmichelle/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdawnwhitaker/

Other: https://linktr.ee/drdawnwhitaker

Image Credits
Stephanie Girard
Khristopher Lassiter