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In times of uncertainty, we need reminders of what truly matters. Today’s episode is a profound lesson in hope, love, and perspective—one that gently calls us back to presence, connection, and grace. This is a re-release of my conversation with Bill Valentine, who passed away peacefully at home on October 21, 2022. I felt deeply called to bring this episode forward again. It’s exactly what we need right now. This conversation isn’t about fear or loss—it’s about living without regret, being fully present because life is fleeting, and holding hope for the future. Many people say the most precious gift we can give is our time. Bill understood this in a way few ever do. When we recorded this episode, he was living with stage four terminal pancreatic cancer, and he chose to spend some of his remaining time with us. Bill was the only guest I’ve ever interviewed without doing extensive research beforehand. I wanted to meet him heart to heart. As it turns out, that choice mirrored one of his greatest realizations: who we truly are has nothing to do with what we’ve accomplished. Bill was a husband and a father of four boys. His focus had narrowed to what mattered most—love, relationships, and presence. In this conversation, Bill shares what his days looked like, what cancer was teaching him, and the lessons he wanted his sons to carry forward. He speaks openly about participating in his own living funeral—receiving love, hearing how he mattered, and discovering that he was, and always had been, enough. He also shares how psilocybin treatment helped him come to terms with his diagnosis and arrive at a simple, powerful truth: the meaning of life is to give and receive love. This is the legacy he left behind. “It shouldn’t take a terminal disease for you to wake up to your obligation to live a full life—and at the center of that are other people.” — Bill Valentine Bill was one of the greatest teachers to ever join Cracking Open. His wisdom, humility, and open heart continue to ripple outward. Rest in peace, Bill. Thank you for everything you taught us. 🎧 Tune in now to listen. Love, Molly 🌱 Please consider supporting the Cracking Open podcast on Patreon. RESOURCES & LINKS: Molly Carroll: Website | Instagram | Facebook Now accepting new therapy clients! If you’re feeling stuck, navigating change, or craving more purpose and peace, I’d love to support you. Learn more or schedule a session here.

Throughout my life, clients and friends have often described me as a bridge—a bridge between science and spirituality, between practical cognitive tools and trusting your intuitive voice, between deep compassion and what I lovingly call “getting Nebraska on you” (a little tough love and real accountability). Maybe you’ve felt that tension too. Wanting concrete strategies you can rely on, while also sensing there’s a deeper wisdom guiding you—something you can’t always explain, but you know is there. That’s exactly why I’m so excited to share today’s conversation with MaryAnn DiMarco on the Cracking Open podcast. MaryAnn is an author, motivational speaker, and internationally recognized psychic medium and spiritual teacher known for her refreshingly grounded, relatable approach. With humor, heart, and real-world wisdom, she helps people develop their intuitive gifts and trust the guidance that’s already speaking to them. In This Episode, We Explore ✨ MaryAnn’s personal journey of becoming a psychic medium—and learning to trust her own gifts  ✨ How to tune into your guides and intuitive voice for clarity, comfort, and grounded decision-making  ✨ Her concept of your “universal team of besties”—energies here to offer breadcrumbs of wisdom and help illuminate your soul’s purpose ✨ Why trusting benevolent guidance is the foundation of intuitive listening ✨ The power of language and curious questioning as tools for getting unstuck and moving forward MaryAnn has been featured on beloved podcasts, including Dear Gabby, The Marie Forleo Podcast, Sibling Revelry, Small Medium at Large, and Language of Love. She also leads sold-out workshops, group programs, and one-on-one mentorship for lightworkers, empaths, and those wanting to deepen their connection with Spirit. She’s the author of several books, including Believe, Ask, Act, Medium Mentor, and one of my personal favorites, The Guide(s) Book—a beautiful roadmap for connecting with your guides and understanding life’s journey with Spirit by your side. Talking with MaryAnn feels like meeting someone who speaks both of my languages. We’re building the same bridge—between the seen and unseen, the practical and the mystical, the mind and the soul. What struck me most is how aligned our approaches to transformation are. We both believe real change happens when we take grounded, accountable steps with our own two feet—while also trusting the spiritual guidance illuminating the path ahead. Whether you’re using evidence-based tools or learning to listen to your guides, both are pointing to the same truth: You don’t have to choose between practical action and intuitive wisdom. Real growth happens when we walk the bridge that honors both—and meet ourselves, and our highest potential, right in the middle. 🎧 Tune in now to listen. With love,  Molly 🌱 Please consider supporting the Cracking Open podcast on Patreon. RESOURCES & LINKS: ​​​​​​​MaryAnn DiMarco Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube The Guide(s) Book Mapping Out Life’s Journey with Spirit by Your Side Listen on Audible Molly: Website | Instagram | Facebook

Have you ever had one of those months where you just can’t climb out of a dark hole? That was my October and November. My son had a health scare (instant compassion for every parent walking that road), I wasn’t sleeping—wide awake at 3 a.m. every night (thank God for a dear friend who meets me at Starbucks at 5 a.m.)—and I felt completely unmotivated and uninspired by my work. Not fun. I’m sharing this because maybe you’ve been there too. And here’s the gift hidden inside those seasons: wisdom. What did I learn? Compassion for myself. Humility that I will never “have it all together.” Trust that this, too, shall pass. And it did pass. The light returned—beginning with the conversation you’re about to hear with Dr. John Price. It was medicine for my soul, and I know it will be for yours too. Meet Dr. John W. Price Dr. John W. Price is a licensed psychotherapist, Jungian scholar, and modern-day mythmaker devoted to bridging psychology and spirituality in service of deep transformation. He holds a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a Doctorate in Jungian Psychology and co-founded The Center for Healing Arts and Sciences in Houston with his wife, Leila-Scott Price. Before dedicating his life to healing, John spent a decade as a professional musician—a journey that immersed him in both the highs of creative success and the depths of self-destruction. Becoming a father marked a powerful turning point, when the soul’s call overtook ambition and led him to his true purpose: guiding others through life’s great initiations—grief, identity collapse, spiritual awakening, and the long return to wholeness. He now serves as President of the Board at the Jung Center of Houston, teaches at the Esalen Institute, and hosts The Sacred Speaks podcast—where he explores depth psychology, spirituality, mysticism, and meaning with guests like Richard Rohr, Anne Lamott, and Thomas Moore. In This Episode We Explore ✨ John’s own “cracking open” story—from life as a rock musician to his awakening as a soul-centered psychotherapist  ✨ How fatherhood transformed his ambitions into a deeper calling to serve  ✨ Practical wisdom for navigating the dark night of the soul with grace and courage ✨ How men’s vulnerability and shadow work can become catalysts for collective healing ✨ Our candid exchange where I challenge John to fully step into his leadership as a bridge between psychology, spirituality, and the modern masculine This conversation is rich with laughter, depth, and truth—but above all, hope. John is a luminous guide whose presence reminds us that even in darkness, we are never alone. If you’re walking through your own “dark night,” or simply feeling lost, uninspired, or uncertain, this episode is your lifeline. John offers not quick fixes or toxic positivity, but grounded wisdom: You’re not broken—you’re breaking open. Press play and remember—the light isn’t just coming; it’s already within you, waiting to be rediscovered. 🎧 Tune in now to listen. With love,  Molly 🌱 Support the Cracking Open podcast here. RESOURCES & LINKS: Dr. John W. Price Website | Substack | Instagram | YouTube  The Center for Healing Arts & Sciences  The Open Gate Program

From the moment Maggie Doyne and I joined our Zoom call, there was an instant recognition—a connection of the heart. We share a love of children, the Oregon coast, and a deep commitment to living in service. Interviewing her was a powerful reminder of what’s possible when one person follows the quiet call of compassion. At just 18 years old, Maggie took what was meant to be a simple gap year—and turned it into her life’s mission. Traveling through India and Nepal, she witnessed a young girl lifting two stones together to build a road. In that moment, she literally said, “I was cracked open”. With her life savings of $5,000, Maggie moved to Nepal and co-founded the BlinkNow Foundation with her Nepali partner, Tope Bahadur Malla. Their vision was clear: to provide children with a safe home, medical care, education, and love—so they would grow into adults with a social conscience and the skills to end cycles of poverty and violence. Working hand-in-hand with Tope and a team that’s 90% Nepali, they built a children’s home for over 100 kids, a school for 350 students, and a women’s center and health clinic for the Kopila Valley community. Maggie’s work has been honored with the 2015 CNN Hero Award and recognition from the Dalai Lama. In this conversation, Maggie shares how a single decision changed her life forever—the joys and challenges of mothering 100 children, sustaining her mission through loss, and the importance of working alongside the local community. She also opens up about a period of deep grief that reshaped her path and strengthened her purpose. Maggie Doyne is a modern-day Mother Teresa—a lighthouse of hope redefining what family means in our world today. She reminds us that one person, with an open heart and unwavering commitment, can create ripples of change that transform entire communities. Whether you’re seeking inspiration to answer your own calling or simply want to witness love in action, this conversation will leave you moved, motivated, and believing in the power of one heart to change the world. 🎧 Tune in now to listen. With love, Molly A note from Molly For three years, I’ve poured my heart into this podcast, creating 90+ episodes. I’ve funded everything myself to focus on meaningful conversations—but to keep bringing you the quality content you deserve, I need your help. Even $5 a month—less than a coffee—helps cover hosting, editing, and prep time. If this podcast has supported you, would you consider joining? Support here: https://www.patreon.com/14800380/join Your support keeps these unrushed, transformative conversations coming. RESOURCES & LINKS: Maggie: Support BlinkNow’s Mission Kopila Valley Children’s Village — Nearing completion of a new, eco-friendly campus in Surkhet, Nepal. Kopila Valley School — Top 10 finalist for the World’s Best School prize  Watch the Film Between the Mountain and the Sky Learn More About Maggie Official Website Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube Molly: https://molly-carroll.com Instagram | Facebook

What happens when one of your dearest friends also happens to be one of the people you admire most in your professional world? That’s exactly the conversation I get to have today—and I couldn’t be more thrilled. This week's guest on the Cracking Open podcast, Nicole Meier, isn’t just a brilliant creative—she’s family. We’ve raised our kids together, navigated the loss of our parents side by side, and cheered each other on as our careers evolved. She’s been a confidant, a mentor, and, without exaggeration, a savant in her craft. Nicole is a certified book coach, developmental editor, and author of four novels whose work has been featured by Booklist, Refinery29, BookBub, and PopSugar. She hosts The Whole Writer podcast for emerging authors, and is a co-founder of Book Works, where she and her partner combine book coaching and branding insight to guide writers to expand their creative community and connect with ideal readers. ✨ In this episode, Nicole shares how she found her way back to creativity while raising three kids (including twins!), supporting aging parents, and juggling all the roles so many of us know too well. Once her kids were in school, she made a powerful choice: to reclaim her voice. Writing became her lifeline—and along the way, she discovered lessons in commitment, boundaries, and courage. ✨ She also gets real about resistance—the sneaky excuses that keep us from doing the work we’re meant to do. Whether it sounds like, “I’ll start when the kids are older,” or “I don’t want people to judge me,” Nicole reminds us that resistance is just fear in disguise. ✨ This conversation is packed with practical wisdom—how to structure your creative day, silence your inner critic, and build your confidence through simple daily actions. And here’s the beautiful truth Nicole offers: creativity isn’t a luxury or a someday dream. It’s a vital practice that keeps us connected to who we truly are. So grab a pen and paper for this one—you’ll want to take notes. Whether you’re a writer, entrepreneur, parent, or simply someone ready to stop making excuses, this episode will remind you that your creative spark never left you. It’s just waiting for you to choose it. 🎧 Tune in now to listen. With love,  Molly A note from Molly For three years, I’ve poured my heart into this podcast, creating 90 episodes. I’ve funded everything myself to focus on meaningful conversations—but to keep bringing you the quality content you deserve, I need your help. Even $5 a month—less than a coffee—helps cover hosting, editing, and prep time. If this podcast has supported you, would you consider joining? Support here: https://www.patreon.com/14800380/join Your support keeps these unrushed, transformative conversations coming. RESOURCES & LINKS: Learn more about Nicole Meier here: http://nicolemeier.com/ Follow Nicole on Substack: https://nicolemeierwrites.substack.com/ Check out Book Works: http://bookworks.co/ Work with Molly: https://molly-carroll.com Stay Connected with Molly on Instagram and Facebook

These days, we all need practices that strengthen not just our muscles, but also our spirits. I’m with you in all you’re navigating, and I want Cracking Open to continue being a place where you can land, breathe, and remember: you are not alone. The stories we share here are meant to heal the body, mind, and soul. Recently, I kept hearing about how weightlifting can help you look, feel, and stay younger longer. Not only is it good for your muscles—it’s essential for your bones, joints, and overall longevity. So I finally decided to try it myself. I joined a local workout group—shoutout to Capacity Performance Therapy—and after almost a year of consistent training, I can confidently say: everything I heard was true. I feel stronger in my body, calmer in my mind, and more alive in my spirit. That’s why I’m excited to introduce you to this week’s guest: Dr. Vonda Wright—a world-renowned orthopedic surgeon and longevity expert. In today’s conversation, we explore science-backed strategies to:  ✨ Stay strong, energized, and mobile at any age  ✨ Learn which exercises matter most for long-term vitality  ✨ Discover what many doctors aren’t telling you about joint pain and arthritis  ✨ Navigate menopause with confidence and clarity—grounded in facts, not fear As Dr. Wright shares: “Every woman is a sentient being with the agency to make her own decisions, but I want her decisions to be based on facts, not fear. Here are the facts: estrogen optimization, hormone optimization, or menopause hormone therapy—no matter what you call it—changes your life.” Whether you’re 25 or 65, this episode is your blueprint for defying conventional aging and reclaiming your strength—for life. And because this is Cracking Open, we don’t just talk about physical health. Dr. Wright also shares her personal story—her “cracking open” moments that shaped her passion for helping others age powerfully and purposefully. About Dr. Vonda Wright Dr. Vonda Wright is a double-board-certified orthopedic surgeon and internationally recognized authority on human performance, longevity, and women’s health. She’s the founding director of PRIMA (Performance and Research Initiative for Masters Athletes) and has served as a physician for elite organizations such as World Rugby, the PGA, and professional ballet companies. She’s been featured on The Diary of a CEO, Jay Shetty, Mel Robbins, The Today Show, and Dr. Oz, and in The New York Times, USA Today, and more. Dr. Wright has authored five books, including Fitness After 40 and Guide to THRIVE, and lives in Florida with her husband, a retired two-time Stanley Cup champion. We as humans are not destined to grow old and frail. In this episode, you’ll find hope, science, and practical tools to turn back the clock—and start thriving today. 🎧 Tune in now to listen. Love, Molly Resources & Links Dr. Vonda Wright’s website Purchase her book Unbreakable Follow her on Instagram

This is one of the most memorable conversations I have had on the podcast. With a heavy heart today, I am re-releasing his episode in honor of Dr. James Doty on neuroscience, manifestation, and the power of focusing your mind and heart on what you know is possible in your life. Dr. Doty passed away on July 16, 2025, from medical complications following surgery. This episode was recorded before his death and remains one of our most beloved conversations. He was truly an incredible human being who believed deeply in the power of the human spirit, mind, and soul. Dr. Doty was a highly sought-after speaker and podcast guest, and he didn't have to say yes to coming on the Cracking Open podcast. But he told me that among the 300 emails he received the day he got my request, he felt it was a "yes" to crack open—and I will forever be grateful. Dr. James Doty was a: World-renowned Stanford neurosurgeon and neuroscientist, philanthropist, and leading researcher in the science of compassionFormer CEO of Accuray (NASDAQ: ARAY), where he helped develop CyberKnife technology, saving countless lives worldwideFounder of the Center for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education (CCARE) at Stanford University School of Medicine, where His Holiness the Dalai Lama is the founding benefactorNew York Times and international bestselling author of Into the Magic Shop and his most recent book, Mind Magic: The Neuroscience of Manifestation, which became a top-selling book on Amazon in multiple categoriesIn this episode, Dr. Doty shares his journey from growing up in a tumultuous home to discovering the power of self-agency and the science of manifestation. He opens up about his successes and failures, his struggles with choosing to live life from his ego or his heart, and how much he appreciates being called out on his shortcomings. Ultimately, he discovered that "possessions, position, and power have nothing to do with wisdom, insight, or self-awareness." Dr. Doty and I dive into the science of manifestation and explore actionable steps you can take to manifest the life of your dreams. We explore how therapy can yield incredible results when the client is willing to confront life's challenges and the shadow side of their personality. When we can illuminate the darker, often hidden parts of ourselves, we can become more integrated and whole as individuals. Whether you have heard this episode before or it's your first time, I invite you to listen to Dr. Doty with an open heart and carry his wisdom forward. To honor Dr. Doty's legacy and life, you can visit his memorial page here: https://everloved.com/life-of/james-doty/ 🎧 Tune in now to listen. With love,  Molly A note from Molly For three years, I’ve poured my heart into this podcast, creating 90 episodes. I’ve funded everything myself to focus on meaningful conversations—but to keep bringing you the quality content you deserve, I need your help. Even $5 a month—less than a coffee—helps cover hosting, editing, and prep time. If this podcast has supported you, would you consider joining? Support here: https://www.patreon.com/14800380/join Your support keeps these unrushed, transformative conversations coming. Work with Molly https://molly-carroll.com Stay Connected with Molly Follow on Instagram Follow on Facebook

Have you ever hit rock bottom? I know I have—not with drugs or alcohol, but through anxiety, over-mothering my kids, or letting my mind hijack my ability to feel gratitude and joy. Today’s guest, Lara Love Hardin, is a powerful example of what it takes to rise from absolute rock bottom. Lara’s journey is extraordinary: from suburban soccer mom to opioid addict, incarcerated felon, and now bestselling author and advocate. Her memoir, The Many Lives of Mama Love, is a 2024 Oprah Book Club pick and a New York Times bestseller. In our conversation, Lara shares: ✨ How addiction and incarceration stripped away every identity she had built—and why that became her greatest gift.  ✨ The unexpected transformation that came from being “just a number” in the system.  ✨ How she rebuilt her life rooted in authenticity, forgiveness, and self-acceptance. We also discuss her work today: advocating for incarcerated and formerly incarcerated women through The Gemma Project, and how she helps others find redemption, even in life’s darkest moments. This conversation offers profound hope to anyone who has experienced addiction, incarceration, or life-altering setbacks. Lara’s story demonstrates that our darkest moments can become the foundation for our greatest transformation, and that redemption is always possible when we’re willing to do the hard work of truly knowing and accepting ourselves.  Whether your rock bottom looks like addiction, mental health struggles, or losing yourself in the roles you play, Lara’s story proves that transformation is not only possible—it can become the greatest gift you never knew you needed. If you’re ready to do the meaningful work of truly knowing and accepting yourself, I’m currently accepting new therapy clients. I specialize in helping people: Break stuck patterns in relationships or life decisionsDevelop coping strategies for anxiety and depressionNavigate life transitions with clarity and purposeCreate more joy, balance, and healthy habitsLearn more and schedule a session here: https://calendly.com/mollycarroll/coaching 🎧 Tune in now to listen. With love,  Molly A note from Molly For three years, I’ve poured my heart into this podcast, creating 90 episodes. I’ve funded everything myself to focus on meaningful conversations—but to keep bringing you the quality content you deserve, I need your help. Even $5 a month—less than a coffee—helps cover hosting, editing, and prep time. If this podcast has supported you, would you consider joining? Support here: https://www.patreon.com/14800380/join Your support keeps these unrushed, transformative conversations coming. Resources & Links Read Lara’s memoir, The Many Lives of Mama Love: https://www.themanylivesofmamalove.com Learn more about The Gemma Project: https://www.thegemmaproject.org Follow Lara on Instagram: @laralovehardin Work with Molly https://molly-carroll.com Stay Connected with Molly Follow on Instagram Follow on Facebook

This summer, I found myself slowing down—getting quieter on the trails, more present among the trees, and stepping away from my usual morning routine of “to-do” lists, three coffees, and hustling to get people into my coaching programs. I got quiet. I sat with the parts of myself that feel uncomfortable and need external validation to feel worthy.   I kept hearing the Zen Buddhist phrase: “chop wood, carry water". The wisdom is simple: do everyday tasks with mindfulness and presence. For me, that meant canceling my coaching program that was supposed to start in August. It meant releasing the constant striving for speaking opportunities, letting go of outreach for podcast guests, and returning to my roots—deep, one-on-one conversations where space is dedicated to what truly matters. It meant going back to being a therapist. For years, Sister Monica Clare heard a quiet call toward a quiet religious life. She first explored Hollywood, marriage, and conventional success before discovering that her heart was truly drawn to sisterhood. Even if you’re not religious or spiritual, this conversation will likely resonate with you. Sister Monica Clare’s story is about learning to "gravitate towards joy versus chaos" and having the courage to follow your authentic calling—no matter how unconventional it may seem, and no matter what you have to release to honor it. Her journey began in a Southern town marked by poverty, abuse, and violence, including witnessing her grandfather attempt to stab her father. Her mother’s encouragement to pursue a different life set her on a path through college in New York City, a career in Hollywood, marriage, heartbreak, and even performing in comedy clubs. Through it all, she never abandoned the power of prayer—even when the call to religious life felt “complicated and baffling, completely out of step with her fame-adjacent life in Los Angeles”. She tried everything to silence it: therapy sessions, ignoring it, secrecy, and even asking friends and mentors, “What do you think about me being a nun?” Sister Monica Clare’s story becomes a compass for anyone struggling to find their truth. Authentic calling rarely makes logical sense—but it always leads to deeper fulfillment. Today, at 59, she has found her unique path to serve:  Launched @NunsenseForthePeople on TikTok in 2020Wrote the bestselling memoir A Change of HabitUses social media to raise awareness about progressive religious orders like the Community of St. John BaptistOffers spiritual counseling specializing in religious trauma, mental illness, and addictionSister Monica Clare is the Mother Superior at the Community of St. John Baptist, an Episcopal convent in New Jersey. Before taking her vows in 2012, she worked as a photo editor in L.A. and performed in an acoustic rock duo and improv comedy troupe. In our conversation, she shares how prayer became her sanctuary throughout Hollywood rejections and personal heartbreaks. She reveals the guiding messages she received from God during life’s challenges—like when she discovered her husband was cheating and heard, “Get up and get your house in order.” She opens up about overcoming the fear that people wouldn’t want her around and finding peace as a socially awkward introvert in a tight-knit community. This episode is an invitation to listen to your own quiet callings and consider what authentic joy could look like in your life—and what you might need to release in order to honor it. 🎧 Tune in now to listen. Love, Molly Resources & Links: Read Sr. Monica Clare's memoir, A Change of Habit

Have you ever had a moment where time seemed to slow, the noise of the world softened, and you felt something ancient stir inside you? That’s exactly what happened when I sat down with Jeff Scult—founder, designer, and visionary behind One Golden Thread. Jeff’s mission is nothing short of revolutionary: to create a regenerative container where humanity can come alive from the inside out. He believes that the “gold” within each of us is the thread that connects us all. And in both life and business, he is walking that talk. A five-time entrepreneur with a background in advertising and storytelling, Jeff spent years amplifying the voices of others before finally tuning into his own. In 2016, he followed an inner calling to birth One Golden Thread, a fashion company that’s as much about soulful expression as it is about sustainability. As Forbes put it: "Jeff Scult and One Golden Thread are creating a regenerative fashion brand that uplifts people and planet." In today’s conversation, Jeff shares openly about his childhood as a people pleaser and shapeshifter—empathetic to everyone’s journey but his own. Beneath the surface, he carried deep emotional sensitivity, a gift that revealed itself through poetic insight and a mystic awareness that often moved people to tears. Even as a child, he knew how to see the soul beneath the mask. Jeff’s story is a profound reminder that our wounds can become portals to purpose. His superpower? Helping others follow their “one golden thread”—the unique inner path that leads each of us home to ourselves. Throughout the episode, Jeff brings his full presence: pausing to light incense, reciting his brand’s founding manifesto, and answering questions with poetic honesty that seems to flow from another realm. What began as an interview became a transmission—a remembering. We explore the steps he took to manifest his vision, the intentionality behind his nature-sourced clothing line, and the deeper ethos guiding his work: wholeness, unity, reverence for self and planet. Whether you’re seeking inspiration to pursue your own dream, curious about conscious entrepreneurship, or simply in need of a breath of truth in a noisy world—this episode is for you. Listen with your heart. Follow your golden thread. Remember the brilliance that’s always been within you. 🎧 Tune in now to listen. Love, Molly Resources & Links Explore One Golden Thread: onegoldenthread.com Plant-sourced essentials designed to root you in comfort, purpose, and planetary love. Listen to Drops of Gold: jeffscult.com/dropsofgold Jeff’s poetic, heart-forward podcast offers reflections and conversations for soul expansion. Work with Jeff: jeffscult.com Discover Jeff’s soulful consulting for personal and professional brand alchemy. Special Offer: Use the code dropsofGold at checkout on onegoldenthread.com to receive a gift with your first purchase. Work with Molly https://molly-carroll.com Stay Connected with Molly Follow on Instagram Follow on Facebook

Some episodes feel especially personal—and this is one of them. This week on Cracking Open, I’m joined by Thomas M. Jones: psychotherapist, author, musician, and founder of The Paradox Process—an innovative technique that helps people use their negative thoughts to shift perspective and transform their lives. And in this conversation, I don’t just talk to Thomas about his method—I actually experience it in real time. Just one week before our interview, my husband lost his job. I was navigating a wave of fear, frustration, and uncertainty. Rather than hiding those emotions, I brought them into the conversation. And Thomas walked me through them—live on the show. But this episode isn’t just about me. It’s about you. And the patterns, stories, and pain we all carry. 🌀 Have you ever sat down to tackle your to-do list and felt too overwhelmed to start? 🌀 Are you still ruminating on something from years ago, stuck in emotions you can’t shake? 🌀 Is there a habit you can’t seem to break—no matter how much you want to? That’s what The Paradox Process is for. It’s a simple, accessible method that helps you take control of your thoughts, shift your emotional state, and find peace. I can personally say—it works. A bit more about Thomas:  🌱 He’s been doing this work for over 50 years 🌱 Serving clients ranging from CEOs and social workers to Emmy, Oscar, and Tony award-winning performers.  🌱 His approach blends strategy and soul to help people find fulfillment in every area of their lives—from manifesting the career of their dreams to achieving intimate, loving, lasting relationships.  I can honestly say—I’m now a true fan of The Paradox Process. Since my conversation with Thomas, something in me has shifted. The fear and frustration I was feeling around my husband’s job loss have softened. I’m not spiraling in worst-case scenarios or trying to fix everything overnight. Instead, I feel a deep, grounded peace. A quiet ease. A knowing that, even in uncertainty, we’re going to be okay. That’s what this process offers—not just tools to think differently, but a pathway to feel differently. To interrupt the looping narratives that keep us stuck and to choose something more empowering in their place. As you listen to this episode, I invite you to walk through it with me. Let Thomas guide you, too. Bring to mind something in your own life that keeps you spinning—an old wound, a self-defeating belief, or a habit you just can’t seem to break. 🌟 This could be the moment you finally begin to shift it. 🌟 This could be the tool that helps you get unstuck. 🌟 This could be the thing that reminds you—you’re not alone, and you’re not powerless. So take a breath. Be curious. And let The Paradox Process work its quiet magic in your life, too. 🎧 Tune in now to listen. Love, Molly Resources & Links Explore The Paradox Process See if The Paradox Process is right for you Join the Manifesting Lab – Mondays at 8pm ET ✨ Podcast Listeners FREE Gift! Stay Connected with Thomas Instagram Work with Molly 6-Month Coaching Program begins August 13th Stay Connected with Molly Follow on Instagram Follow on Facebook

This episode is deeply personal to me. Not only as a therapist and podcast host—but as a mom to a 19-year-old son and a 17-year-old daughter. I’m acutely aware that most young people—and many parents—don’t realize the deadly risks of purchasing medication online without a prescription. Counterfeit pills are now deliberately designed to look exactly like legitimate prescription opioids. But what’s inside is far more dangerous than most people know. This week on the Cracking Open podcast, I have the immense honor of speaking with Ed and Mary Ternan, founders of the nonprofit Song for Charlie. After losing their son Charlie to a counterfeit Percocet pill laced with illicit fentanyl, Ed and Mary transformed unimaginable grief into purposeful action. Instead of only placing blame on social media platforms where these pills are sold, they chose to lead with education and empathy—working to save other families from the same heartbreak. ✨ Their mission is clear: to warn young people—especially those ages 13–24—about the danger of fake pills purchased online.  ✨ Their message is urgent: even one pill can be fatal.  ✨ Their approach is powerful: reaching youth with messaging that actually resonates with their generation. In this conversation, Ed and Mary bravely share the story of losing their beloved Charlie and the ripple effects that tragedy had on their family, their faith, and their purpose. Through Song for Charlie, they’ve become fierce advocates for awareness, prevention, and healing. And through their love for Charlie—and for every child who may still be saved—they are making a difference. This is a story of heartbreak. But it’s also a story of hope. 🎧 Tune in now to listen. Love, Molly RESOURCES & LINKS Learn more about Ed and Mary Ternan’s work Song for Charlie The New Drug Talk La Nueva Drug Talk (en Español) Meet the Song for Charlie Team Follow Song for Charlie on social media Instagram Facebook LinkedIn TikTok Snapchat X (formerly Twitter) Work with Molly 🌱 6-Month Coaching Program begins August 13th – Learn moreConnect with Molly Official WebsiteInstagramFacebook

“I was following my North Star and definitely loving what I was doing—just not how I was doing it.” ~ Molly Carroll I’ll never forget waking up one morning in Costa Rica while leading a women’s retreat. Surrounded by yoga, healthy food, and meaningful transformation, I should’ve felt alive and fulfilled. But instead, I felt utterly exhausted. So I took a solo walk on the beach—not to escape, but to survive. Even though I was in my zone of genius—supporting others and sharing tools for healing—I was deeply burned out. At the time, I had over 30 clients, was writing books, had just finished a TED Talk, was running retreats, parenting two kids, and helping care for my mother as she battled cancer. I was giving everything I had to everyone else. But underneath it all, I was fighting internal demons: shame, perfectionism, fear I wasn’t doing enough—or being enough—as a therapist, mom, wife, and daughter. I was experiencing what Scott Anderson, our guest this week on the Cracking Open podcast, calls burnout. And wow… do I wish I had Scott's work back then. But lucky for all of us—he’s here now. And he’s here to help you. Scott Anderson is the author of You’re Not Toast and founder of DoubleDare, a coaching organization helping high-achieving professionals break free from burnout. With 30+ years of business ownership, therapy training, and ICF coaching credentials, Scott’s work blends business acumen with a deep understanding of the emotional and mental toll burnout takes. Scott’s own story is one of profound transformation. After losing his son Max to addiction, Scott found himself broken, exhausted, and questioning everything. That grief led him to reevaluate his life, uncover his values, and rebuild with more humility and purpose. From this space, the Burnout Breakthrough Method was born—a framework that helps people reconnect with their energy, release emotional weight, and create sustainable, joyful success. In today’s conversation, we talk about: ✨ What burnout really is (hint: it’s not just being tired) ✨ Why high-achievers are most at risk ✨ The intersection of grief, purpose, and healing ✨ How to recover quickly and permanently from burnout ✨ Why passion isn’t enough—and how to work in a way that doesn’t cost your health or soul If you’re feeling exhausted, disconnected, or like you're carrying the weight of the world, let this episode be your own beach walk—an invitation to slow down, reflect, and reconnect. Because there’s more joy available to you than you could ever imagine. 🎧 Tune in now to listen. With love, Molly P.S. Check out Scott's first interview on Cracking Open on 5/19/22! Discover How Sobriety, Death, and Service Taught Life Coach Scott Anderson About the True Meaning of Life Connect with Scott Anderson burnoutbreakthrough.comFast Fix Call – Book a free sessionFollow Scott on Social Media FacebookInstagramLinkedIn Work with Molly 🌱 6-Month Coaching Program begins August 13th – Learn moreConnect with Molly Official Website

“Children are our greatest treasure. They are our future.” — Nelson Mandela Kids have always been part of my story—long before I became a mom. I’ve been a babysitter, camp counselor, teacher, therapist, and now a parent. That’s why this week’s episode feels especially close to my heart. But it’s not just for parents. Whether you're an aunt, uncle, teacher, coach, or simply someone who wants to better understand and support the next generation, this conversation is for you. Today on the Cracking Open podcast, I’m honored to sit down with Dr. Lori Baudino—a licensed clinical psychologist and board-certified dance/movement therapist with over 20 years of experience supporting children and families. Dr. Baudino’s approach integrates the mind, body, and spirit. She’s a pioneer in bringing body-based awareness into therapeutic spaces and hospital settings, helping children and parents connect more deeply through movement, presence, and play. In our conversation, Lori posed a powerful question that stayed with me: “What if we all approached life like a dance—with fluidity and playfulness, to feel truly alive?” She invites us to see the body as one of our greatest resources. Our physical expressions offer insight into how we feel, what we need, where we struggle, and where we shine. Together, we explore: ✨ Supporting children who don’t fit conventional emotional or social molds  ✨ How to strengthen sibling relationships and navigate family dynamics  ✨ What secure attachment really means—and how to nurture it  ✨ Why movement is essential to emotional health  ✨ How to meet your child’s uniqueness with curiosity, not control Dr. Baudino’s wisdom is profound and practical. Whether you're raising children or walking alongside them, this episode will help you deepen your compassion, expand your understanding, and build more connected, resilient relationships. After this conversation, I left feeling like a more grounded parent, advocate, and human being—and I think you will too. 🎧 Tune in now to listen. With love, Molly Explore Dr. Lori Baudino’s Work Super Flyers BookMoving Moments in Childhood Book16-Day Purposeful Parenting ChallengeMoving Moments MasterclassThe Global Therapists Program (via AnchoRRa)Connect with Dr. Lori Official WebsiteInstagramFacebookLinkedIn Work with Molly 🌱 6-Month Coaching Program begins August 13th – Learn moreConnect with Molly Official WebsiteInstagramFacebook

There are guests whose stories are filled with incredible achievements. And then there are guests whose stories crack you open—with their heart, their humility, and their humanity. Today’s guest, Rebecca Rusch, is all of the above. Rebecca is one of the world’s most extraordinary endurance athletes—a 7-time World Champion, mountain bike hall-of-famer, best-selling author, Emmy Award winner, and activist. She has not only pushed herself to the physical edge through rock climbing, whitewater rafting, and multi-day adventure races like Eco-Challenge—she has also traveled to the emotional core of what it means to live fully, love deeply, and be good. You may know her from the acclaimed documentary Blood Road, which follows Rebecca’s 1,800-kilometer mountain bike journey along the Ho Chi Minh Trail to locate the site where her father’s plane went down during the Vietnam War. That quest wasn’t just about closure—it was about connection, healing, and honoring the man who shaped her spirit. In this deeply moving episode of the Cracking Open podcast, we explore: ✨ How the loss of her father at a young age ignited a lifelong search for meaning ✨ What growing up with a single, hard-working mom taught her about strength and self-reliance ✨ The power of curiosity, nature, and endurance to reveal who we really are ✨ How a traumatic brain injury forced her to slow down—and reimagine what success looks like ✨ Why “being good” matters so much more than being perfect What we didn’t know when we scheduled this conversation was that Rebecca’s beloved mom would pass away just one week before we recorded. And so what unfolds in this episode is not just an interview—it’s a powerful reflection on how we live, how we love, and how we show up for the people who matter most. Rebecca’s story is one of grit, grace, and growth. And at the heart of it all is a simple message from her father, who signed every letter home from Vietnam with the same two words: Be Good. It’s a mantra that continues to guide her—and now, maybe, it will guide you too. 🎧 Tune in now and let Rebecca’s courage, curiosity, and compassion inspire you to slow down, dig deep, and live your own version of being good. Love, Molly Connect with Rebecca Rusch Instagram Facebook LinkedIn YouTube Explore Rebecca's Work Official Website The Be Good Foundation Rebecca’s Private Idaho Work with Molly 🌱 6-Week Coaching Program begins May 14th! — Learn more Stay Connected with Molly Instagram Facebook