Karen Fischer

Name: Karen Fischer
Age: 35
Occupation: Award-winning author of The Healthy Skin Diet, nutritionist, former television presenter (What's Up Doc? Nine Network)

She writes books for fun and wears hats even on rainy days. Since leaving TV Karen has become a nutritionist and a mother of two. She loves hanging out with her family and enjoys teaching people about 'beauty' foods which are great for the skin. Karen is motivated by the thought that life is short and that time is precious (aka, I could die soon so I'd better make today fabulous). Then there's her lazy side too, as relaxation is great for the skin!

Who was your role model/s when you were a teen?
Jana Wendt; Alison Brae (model, now married to Cameron Daddo); Madonna; my crazy best friend; Barbie.

How did your role model/s help you?
Well Barbie certainly didn't help me. She just made me feel frustrated that I didn't have her talent for filling out a swimsuit! However, I was fascinated by how Jana Wendt voiced her opinions. She's a strong woman and used her intelligence when she could have been perfectly successful just sitting there looking pretty.

What role or influence do you think role models have?
Role models can open up your eyes to more opportunities in life. Good role models are particularly important for girls. They can show young, impressionable girls that self respect and self esteem are two of the most valuable assets to have.

What were some of the issues you faced as a teen?
I was painfully shy, which occasionally caused me to stutter (I kid you not). I sometimes had pimples and eczema and I really, really cared what my friends thought of me so I would do stupid things to impress them.

How did you overcome these issues?
I read a lot of books and studied acting to help me become more outgoing. I studied nutrition to learn how to have great skin and in my 30s I stopped being so concerned about what the world thought of me. I did this by focussing on helping other people.

What do you remember most about being a teen?
I disliked going to school because it made me feel anxious and I spent a lot of time in my bedroom, writing and daydreaming about one day having a fabulous life.

What qualities do you think you possess that has helped you succeed in your chosen field?
I have no particular talent but I'm not afraid of problems or challenges. I guess I am a good problem solver. My child had eczema so I found a solution. I had a terrible memory and "ummed and ahhed" a lot so I learnt how to train my memory. Having a good memory helps me immensely when I talk about nutrition and health on television and radio. As a result I have the mantra "Be grateful for your problems, they are making you wise".

Outside of career success, what is it that you are most proud of?
My children. They teach me so much.

Do you undertake activities to help others/community?
I post free health information, and eczema and beauty tips on my website healthbeforebeauty.com

Your advice to youths about realising their own potential...
Allocate five minutes each day and daydream about what you would love to achieve. Have big fun dreams as well as realistic ones. Then ask yourself each day "What is the next step to achieving my goals?" Even if you allocate 10 minutes each day to doing something towards your goals, you will be heading in the right direction. For example, if you enjoy writing simply take the time to write each day, then get advice from others on how you can improve your skills.