Totally Booked with Zibby: Episode Summary Featuring Kareem Rosser

Episode Title: Kareem Rosser, WHEN YOU'RE READY: A Love Story
Release Date: February 12, 2025
Host: Zibby Owens

Introduction

In this heartfelt episode of Totally Booked with Zibby, host Zibby Owens welcomes Kareem Rosser, the author of the emotionally charged memoir, When You're Ready: A Love Story. The conversation delves deep into Kareem's personal journey of love, loss, resilience, and mental health, offering listeners an intimate look into the experiences that shaped his compelling narrative.

Kareem Rosser's Background

Kareem Rosser hails from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Colorado State University. During his collegiate years, Kareem distinguished himself both academically and athletically, leading his polo team to a national championship and being honored as the Intercollegiate Polo Player of the Year. Post-graduation, he returned to Philadelphia, assuming the role of Executive Vice President at Ride, a company where he first encountered the sport of polo.

Meeting Lili: A Summer to Remember

Kareem recounts the summer of 2014 as a pivotal period in his life. Returning to Philadelphia to complete his studies and embark on a career in finance, he met Lili, the woman who would become the central figure in his memoir. Their connection was instantaneous, anchored by a shared passion for horses and polo despite their differing backgrounds—Kareem from inner-city Philadelphia and Lili from the affluent countryside of Pennsylvania.

Kareem Rosser [05:39]: "The first time I really fell in love with a woman and became obsessed with someone... she is this incredibly gorgeous woman who was also happened to be an amazing rider."

Their first date left a lasting impression on Kareem, solidifying his deep affection and admiration for Lili. The couple navigated a long-distance relationship as Kareem completed his education, eventually reuniting in Philadelphia in 2016 to build a life together.

The Accident: Love Tested by Tragedy

December 22, 2016, marked a devastating turn in Kareem and Lili's lives. Lili suffered a severe riding accident, resulting in a traumatic brain injury (TBI) that left her fighting for her life.

Kareem Rosser [09:24]: "I just lost it. We all lost it... this was the first time I almost lost someone that I thought was going to marry."

The accident not only tested their relationship but also thrust Kareem into a prolonged period of emotional turmoil. Despite the immense grief, Kareem remained steadfast in his commitment to Lili, vowing to support her through her recovery.

Navigating Mental Health: Coping with Anxiety and Trauma

A significant portion of Kareem's memoir addresses his struggles with anxiety, rooted in early traumatic experiences, including the loss of his friend Mecca Harris in a tragic incident in 2003. These experiences led to persistent panic attacks and a pervasive sense of insecurity from a young age.

Kareem Rosser [20:05]: "My anxiety has not gone away, but I use it all the time to motivate me, but it's now in a place where I can manage it."

Through therapy and personal introspection, Kareem learned to understand and manage his anxiety. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing that anxiety is a part of being human and can serve as both a protective mechanism and a source of strength when properly managed.

Writing the Book: From Pain to Purpose

Initially hesitant to share his painful experiences, Kareem eventually decided to pen his memoir after years of internal struggle and with the support of his agent, Emma. Writing When You're Ready: A Love Story served as a cathartic process, allowing him to process his grief and offer solace to others facing similar tragedies.

Kareem Rosser [15:52]: "I decided to just step back, accept it, and then write about it and hopefully share it with people and hopefully make a difference."

His commitment to vulnerability and honesty in his writing ensures that the book resonates deeply with readers, offering both emotional depth and practical insights into coping with loss and rebuilding one's life.

Current Life and Future Plans

Today, Kareem has transitioned out of his role in finance to focus full-time on his charitable endeavors. As the Executive Vice President of a charity he grew up with, he plays a crucial role in fundraising and development efforts, including a significant campaign to build a new indoor riding polo facility in Philadelphia.

Kareem maintains a close relationship with Lili, visiting her regularly and supporting her ongoing recovery. He has also joined the board of the Bryn Mawr Rehab Hospital Foundation, where Lili received much of her rehabilitation, and is working to establish a patient's assistance fund in her honor to support families dealing with TBIs.

On the personal front, Kareem is married and a father, blending his family with Lili's and cherishing the moments they share together.

Kareem Rosser [26:31]: "I have a daughter now. I'm married, and so I'm very, very happy about that."

The Writing Process: Emotional Catharsis and Healing

Writing When You're Ready: A Love Story was an emotionally taxing yet fulfilling journey for Kareem. He describes the experience as an "emotional roller coaster," with moments of profound sadness and catharsis.

Kareem Rosser [30:09]: "It was an emotional roller coaster, really. It was definitely cathartic."

Recording the audiobook added another layer of emotional complexity, as Kareem often found himself unable to contain his tears while narrating his most painful memories. Despite the challenges, he expresses immense pride and satisfaction in completing the book, hoping it serves as a beacon of hope and understanding for others.

Conclusion

Kareem Rosser's story, as discussed in this episode of Totally Booked with Zibby, is a testament to the enduring power of love, the resilience of the human spirit, and the importance of addressing mental health. His memoir not only chronicles his personal struggles and triumphs but also extends a compassionate hand to listeners who may be navigating their own journeys of loss and healing.

Kareem Rosser [33:35]: "I really hope that it benefits more folks than just myself."

Through his openness and vulnerability, Kareem inspires others to seek help, embrace their emotions, and find strength in the face of adversity.

For more insights and inspirational conversations, subscribe to Totally Booked with Zibby on your preferred podcast platform. Don't forget to follow Zibby Owens on Instagram at @zibbyowens and visit zibbymedia.com for additional resources and information.