Have you ever had a moment where you get chills up and down your spine while listening to someone's story and how it transformed how they live, work, and exist in the world?This is what happened to me when I first heard Dr. Ellen Langer speak, and she joins us today on the Cracking Open podcast to impart her wisdom, backed by decades of research and enriched by stories from her latest book, The Mindful Body: Thinking Our Way to Chronic Health.Dr. Langer is one of the first women to achieve tenure at Harvard University and has dedicated forty-five years to pioneering research on aging, diabetes, autism, stress management, and overall health. Her work underscores the profound connection between our minds and bodies, advocating for mindfulness as a powerful tool to enhance overall well-being. Listening to our discussion today will shed light on Dr. Langer's belief that mindfulness not only benefits us personally but is also remarkably easy to integrate into our lives. She emphasizes that all our misery stems from being mindless, and by becoming more mindful and noticing things in our lives, we can alleviate stress and transform our experiences for the better.Dr. Ellen Langer is not only a professor and researcher at Harvard but a prolific author, with eleven books to her name, including the internationally acclaimed Mindfulness, which has been translated into fifteen languages, and Counterclockwise: Mindful Health and the Power of Possibility.Her contributions to psychology have garnered widespread recognition, including a Guggenheim Fellowship, and the Award for Distinguished Contributions to Psychology in the Public Interest from the American Psychological Association.With over 200 research articles to her credit, Dr. Langer's pioneering work in social psychology has earned her a place in The New York Times Magazine's "Year in Ideas" issue. Dr. Langer is also an accomplished painter. Our lively conversation left a lasting impression on me, especially when she emphasized that "it is not about making the right decisions, it is about making your decisions right". This resonated deeply with me, highlighting the importance of mindfulness in shaping our perceptions and responses to life's challenges. Dr. Ellen's teachings have truly transformed my approach to daily living. I now navigate each day with a newfound mindfulness, drawing from her research to navigate life's challenges with greater ease and resilience. Tune in to learn more about how you can bring more mindfulness into your life today.Love, MollyLearn more about Dr. Ellen Langer and her work hereFollow Dr. Langer on LinkedIn, Facebook,  X, and InstagramMolly's next 3-month Cracking Open group coaching program starts in July 2024! Learn more here. Follow Molly on Instagram and Facebook

Growing up, I often heard sayings such as “the harder the work, the luckier you get” and “nothing comes free in life". Adopting this approach to life inspired me to become a very hard worker. However, I also became someone who can have difficulty relaxing and letting go of work. I still tend towards pushing and striving to make something happen out of sheer will versus allowing the right things to come into my life at the right time. If this resonates with you, then I invite you into the world of today's Cracking Open podcast guest and life coach Jill Rose, who is here to remind us that there is a kinder, easier, and more generative way to move through this world.As a self-proclaimed overachiever, hustler, and hard-working mom of three kids, Jill learned to keep pushing forward to reach some unforeseen finish line. Then she had a "cracking open" moment when she lost her home during the housing crisis. Feeling ashamed, lonely, and isolated because she and her family had to move to a new city and start all over, Jill hit rock bottom. Then one day she discovered a yoga class, which brought her the warmth and comfort she was so desperately seeking. She enrolled in yoga teacher training and began to feel alive again. She learned that she loved teaching women yoga, where she could create a space for them to slow down and step out of the rat race, and instead learn to trust their inner voice of rest, presence, and healthy community.Today Jill is a life coach, speaker, and facilitator who loves nothing more than watching a woman unapologetically shine. Through her one-on-one work with clients, her group coaching program called Rest, Restore & Rise, her bi-annual women’s retreats, and her facilitation work with professional organizations, Jill is dedicated to helping her clients know their value, worth, brilliance, and importance so that they can rise into the women they are destined to be. And by doing so, they inevitably enrich and elevate those around them.May we all learn from Jill the easier, kinder way of living that is more aligned with our true nature, and may it bring forth more abundance, joy, purpose, passion, bandwidth, and capacity to better care for ourselves and those we love.Love,MollyLearn more about Jill Rose and her work hereFollow Jill on Instagram and FacebookLearn more about Jill's upcoming retreats & courses hereFeeling Stuck? It's Time to Get Unstuck!A 3-Month Cracking Open Coaching Program with Molly Carroll.The next group is starting soon! Learn more here.Connect with Molly on Instagram and Facebook

Have you ever pondered the significance of people entering your life – wondering if it is simply a coincidence that you met, or if they are destined to offer support or impart some crucial lesson during your journey in this lifetime?Our guest today on the Cracking Open podcast, Kara Ladd, is someone I feel certain I was meant to cross paths with in this life. Kara was living what seemed to be the dream life—working in fashion editorial and residing in a stunning apartment that was nestled between two of New York's hottest nightclubs. She embodied the quintessential girl boss, hustling tirelessly. Then her life took an unforeseen turn when Kara discovered a bump under her left knee, which turned out to be a one-in-a-million synovial sarcoma cancer. At the young age of 24, her life as she knew it came to an abrupt halt. She recalls, “I had this full-on cracking open spiritual, out-of-body experience.”While editing Kara’s episode last week, life threw me an unexpected curveball. I found myself needing an ultrasound to investigate some symptoms that could have been anything from perimenopause to a potential cancerous mass in my uterus or cervix. Thankfully, my symptoms turned out to be related to menopause (gratitude to Dr. Mary Claire Haver for her invaluable teachings!). But this scare reinforced my belief that Kara's voice needed to be heard on the podcast.Through her journey with chemotherapy and facing her mortality head-on, Kara realized the importance of delving deep into her soul and asking profound questions like: “Who am I? What do I truly enjoy? Are my relationships nurturing me?” Kara is not only a badass cancer survivor but an award-winning multimedia entrepreneur & journalist known for her storytelling, purpose-driven thought leadership, and conscious marketing consultancy for the next generation of modern, mindful brands.She began her career working in the fashion closets of Cosmopolitan and Italian Vogue, then worked at a boutique sustainable fashion consultancy where she spearheaded creative and strategic marketing for high-profile clients such as Amazon. Kara then pivoted back into editorial, working as Hearst Digital Media’s E-Commerce and Partnerships Editor, where she created optimized digital content for all 28 Hearst sites. Her features have reached 35 million page views worldwide. In 2018, Kara started her own successful consulting company, KL Consulting.Kara considers her healing journey to be one of the most powerful awakenings of her life and was the conduit for creating her consultancy. She now helps others awaken to their "why" - their heartbeat, their purpose.  Kara's story reminds us that universal light permeates everything around us, and her words help us connect to our hearts. May her message inspire you to take aligned steps towards embodying your best self.Love,MollyLearn more about Kara Ladd and her work hereFollow Kara on Instagram and TikTokFeeling Stuck? It's Time to Get Unstuck!A 3-Month Cracking Open Coaching Program with Molly Carroll.The next group is starting soon! Learn more here.Connect with Molly on Instagram and Facebook

We are fortunate to welcome back Dr. Mary Claire Haver, a menopause guru, for her second appearance on the podcast (in case you missed it, or want a refresher, go back to episode 39 to listen to our first conversation which is one of our most downloaded episodes ever!).Did you know that 1.2 billion women are going through menopause right now? In this episode, we delve into the prevalent misconceptions surrounding menopause. Dr. Haver sheds light on various aspects of this hormonal transition, including the misinformation surrounding hormones and cancer, and the staggering statistic that only 0.03% of the NIH (National Institute of Health) budget is allocated to menopause research, despite its universal relevance to all women. She also shares her approach to treating menopause through holistic approaches to health, highlighting the significance of sleep, diet, exercise, and overall lifestyle in managing menopausal symptoms.Dr. Mary Claire Haver is board-certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology and is a Certified Culinary Medicine Specialist from Tulane University. She is a Louisiana State University Medical Center graduate and completed her Obstetrics and Gynecology residency at the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB). She is also a Certified Menopause Specialist through The Menopause Society, and in 2021 she opened Mary Claire Wellness, a clinic dedicated to caring for menopausal patients.Dr. Haver has amassed over 4 million followers across social media by posting menopausal advice for women. She understands that menopause healthcare is in dire need of change and is proud to be leading the conversation. Her educational background and her own experience led her to develop the national bestselling book and online program, The Galveston Diet, a three-pronged lifestyle plan that encourages fuel refocusing, intermittent fasting, and anti-inflammatory nutrition to manage hormonal symptoms, stabilize weight, and revitalize the body as it ages to provide benefits that will last a lifetime.She is working on her second book, The New Menopause, which will be released in Spring 2024. One particularly poignant moment from the interview is Dr. Haver's assertion that she is part of a movement poised to transform medicine, recognizing the urgent need for increased focus on menopause healthcare. Her mission is to guide individuals back to their baseline and alleviate the stress associated with menopause through informed treatment options.This episode resonates not only with women experiencing perimenopause or menopause but also with anyone who has women in their lives—be it daughters, mothers, sisters, or friends. By listening to Dr. Mary Claire Haver's insights, individuals can positively influence their longevity and quality of life, paving the way for a more balanced, sane, and healthy existence.Love,MollyLearn more about Dr. Mary Claire Haver and her work hereFollow Dr. Haver on TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedInFeeling Stuck? It's Time to Get Unstuck! A 3-Month Cracking Open Coaching Program with Molly Carroll. The next group is starting soon! Learn more here.Connect with Molly on Instagram and Facebook

In my podcast conversations with authors, anthropologists, creatives, and change-makers, we often delve into their personal stories, encompassing their triumphs and setbacks, as well as their spiritual practices and strategies for leading a more fulfilling life.However, today's conversation is a bit different from the norm.Today, I'm privileged to engage in conversation with Sun Yi, a distinguished personal branding expert and the visionary founder of Night Owls, an acclaimed digital agency catering to esteemed clients like Mel Robbins, Jay Shetty, Marc Randolph, and Gabby Bernstein.Despite Sun's professional collaborations with prominent figures in the self-transformation space, he boldly admits his disinterest in practices such as yoga, mantras, or the ritual of smudging his home. Yet, his online presence, characterized by candid insights, thought-provoking slogans, and astute business counsel, immediately captivated my attention, resonating deeply with me as both an occasional social media gawker and a prospective client.Upon delving further into Sun Yi's work, I eagerly enrolled in his three-month marketing mentorship program. Through this journey, I gained invaluable lessons on branding, marketing tactics, the art of storytelling, authenticity, and the significance of prioritizing both customer service and personal fulfillment.Sun Yi's multifaceted expertise extends beyond his role as an entrepreneur and storyteller; he's also a TEDx speaker and the driving force behind Night Owls and Night Owl Nation. With over 20 years of experience in digital branding, Sun has helped brands go from virtual zero revenue to $1 billion. He is passionate about teaching and has taught over 22,000+ students through his online course, The Art of Storytelling for Freelancers and Creators. In 2022, he started Night Owl Nation, a global community of entrepreneurs and creators who practice storytelling together.During our conversation, Sun Yi candidly reflects on his upbringing in Korea and subsequent immigration to the United States at the age of 10, where he endured years of bullying. These experiences shaped his resilience, reinforcing his sense of self while occasionally challenging his capacity for humility.Through the highs and lows of his professional journey, including almost losing his marriage to the love of his life Gigi, Sun Yi arrived at a profound realization: true success hinges upon establishing authentic human connections with customers. He highlights the importance of active listening, genuine care, and a service-oriented approach as the most potent tools in the realm of marketing and branding.Sun Yi's authenticity, humor, and candid anecdotes will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression, offering not just marketing and branding insights but also a sense of camaraderie amidst life's ebbs and flows. His message is clear: by embracing the present moment, we unlock the fullest potential of our lives.Love,MollyLearn more about Sun Yi and his work hereFollow Sun Yi on LinkedIn, Facebook, X (Twitter), & InstagramMolly has a new website! Check it out hereConnect with Molly on Instagram and Facebook

On a sunny afternoon, as I sat on my deck, immersed in reading Oprah Magazine, acaptivating article "How to Love Yourself When You Feel Your Worst" caught my attention. It wasn't just the title that drew me in, but the vibrant, colorful woman gracing the page beneath it. There she stood, in a tiger-printed dress, hands reaching out to the sky, exuding vitality, joy, and boundless possibilities for life.I read the article which beautifully unfolded the story of J.J. Martin, an American-born, Milan-based fashion designer who discovered her inner light during the darkest days of the pandemic. Two sentences, in particular, stood out to me: "Cracking open one spiritual window back in 2014 gave me a deep itch to discover the whole glorious mansion within."  "So, a lot has cracked open from these energy eggs I fertilized."Of course I had to invite her on the Cracking Open podcast, right??J.J. Martin holds the titles of Creative Commander and Chief Spiritual Officer at La DoubleJ, a thriving fashion and homeware business. A California native, she arrived in Milan in 2001, spending 17 years as a journalist, contributing to various international publications and uncovering Italy's finest treasures as a contributing editor for Harper’s Bazaar (US), WSJ. Magazine, and Wallpaper. Throughout this journey, she refined her aesthetic sensibilities and forged connections with creative minds in fashion, interiors, art, design, and architecture.In 2015, J.J. launched La DoubleJ, a shoppable magazine with a dual purpose: to showcase her collection of vintage clothing and to celebrate Milan's glamorous women and legendary housewives. Fueled by J.J.'s maximalist energy, La DoubleJ soared, offering original collections characterized by feel-good fashion, effortless glamour, and a vintage twist. Over the past two decades in Italy, a place she describes as her "first major spiritualteacher", J.J. has cultivated a vibrant community of healers, educators, and soul workers, deepening her spiritual practice and becoming a trusted resource in the realm of spirituality and wellness.All these facets of J.J.'s life reflect her genuine passions, seamlessly woven into a unique lifestyle brand that encourages women to discover joy within and without. In this episode, our conversation goes beyond fashion, fabrics, and design, taking a profound dive into her personal journey and how embracing vulnerability led her on a spiritual path. We explore topics not limited to the pleasant aspects of life but also delve into how to keep your heart open during challenging times and how to heal from loss and disappointments, especially when life doesn't unfold as expected.I invite you to approach J.J.'s wisdom with an open heart. Her insights, though possiblynew to you, have the potential to profoundly impact your life. J.J.'s business and life mantra revolves around "raising the vibration". She is the perfect evangelist for this cause, and on this episode of Cracking Open, she shares her unique, heartfelt perspective. Love,MollyLearn more about J.J. Martin and her work hereFollow J.J. on InstagramFollow La DoubleJ on InstagramMolly has a new website!! Check it out hereConnect with Molly on Instagram and Facebook

Why is it that January is one of the most popular times to ask ourselves questions like, "What needs to change in my life?" or "How do I want the end of this year to look different from today?"It is questions like these, about change and self-evolution, that I have been hearing from my clients for many years (and have asked myself as well!). This inspired me to ask Serena Dugan to be our guest on the Cracking Open Podcast today.Serena is a beacon of change, living a life filled with authenticity and creativity. She is an artist and textile designer based in Sausalito, California. With an education in both Psychology and Fine Art, Serena has spent the past 20 years developing her mark as a painter, product designer, and Chief Creative Officer of Serena & Lily, the home and lifestyle brand she founded in 2004.In 2020, Serena launched Serena Dugan Studio, her eponymous collection of fabricsand wallpapers. Serena's art-driven textiles draw inspiration from around the world, from the breezy jet-set spirit of Capri in the 50s to the tribal basket weaving traditions in South America, to the colorful abstract mid-century architecture found in Mexico City. Serena weaves together global references and textile traditions to create her unique statement. Most recently, Serena collaborated with Erik Lindstrom to create a line of rugs inspired by her artwork. In my conversation with Serena, we delve deep into topics ranging from finding your creativity, trusting your instincts when making decisions, letting go of your ego, and coping with the loss of a loved one. This episode is not only profound and truthful but also a reminder that creativity resides within all of us if we remain open to the idea that life is not stagnant, change is inevitable, and trusting our instincts can make life feel vital and alive.Serena not only shares her passion for painting and being an artist but also the value ofmaking mistakes, starting over, and understanding that our achievements do notdefine who we are. She lovingly reminds us all - "At the end of my days, I'm not going to look back on Serena and Lily and think that is my greatest success. I'm not going to look back on my textile collection and say, that is what I'm most proud of. At the end of the day, it's the people that I'm surrounded by that give life meaning. The rest of this is just our path to love."Love,MollyLearn more about Serena Dugan and her work hereFollow Serena on InstagramMolly has a new website!! Check it out hereConnect with Molly on Instagram and Facebook

Today we are kicking off Season 6 of the Cracking Open podcast with a powerful message from legendary explorer, writer, photographer, filmmaker, and storyteller, Wade Davis.Wade's incredible journey takes us from the Amazon and The Andes, where he spent over three years as a plant explorer among 15 indigenous groups, to Haiti, where he investigated folk preparations tied to the creation of zombies and authored The Serpent and the Rainbow. His explorations have taken him to numerous destinations, including East Africa, Borneo, Nepal, Peru, Polynesia, Tibet, and beyond. We delve into his upbringing and how it influenced his career choices, including anthropology, rituals, and psychedelic experiences with renowned figures like Richard Schulte and Andrew Weil.Wade Davis's list of achievements is extensive, from being a Professor of Anthropology and holding the BC Leadership Chair in Cultures and Ecosystems at the University of British Columbia to serving as Explorer-in-Residence at the National Geographic Society. With degrees in anthropology and biology, including a Ph.D. in ethnobotany from Harvard University, he has authored 25 books, including One River, The Wayfinders, Into the Silence, and Magdalena. His photography has graced the pages of National Geographic, and he has been involved in various documentaries, including Light at the Edge of the World and El Sendero de la Anaconda.As a professional speaker for 35 years, Wade has delivered captivating lectures at universities, corporations, and professional associations worldwide. He's a TED veteran with talks viewed by millions, and his books have made a global impact. Davis's remarkable contributions have earned him recognition, including honorary memberships and awards like the Gold Medal from the Royal Canadian Geographical Society and the prestigious Explorers Medal.In today's episode, Wade encourages us to follow his example, be leap-takers, and explore our destinies in 2024, reminding us that life is here to lift us if we are willing to take the risk and trust the journey.He reminds us that taking a leap in life is crucial, and he shares the wisdom of his friend, Terence McKenna, who once said, "Jump off the cliff, the world doesn't exist to put you down. It exists to lift you up." This episode serves as a reminder that we are the architects of our own lives, with the agency to shape our decisions and habits in the direction we choose.Love,MollyLearn more about Wade Davis and his work herePeruse Wade's bibliography & purchase one of his books hereFollow Wade on InstagramLearn more about Molly Carroll hereConnect with Molly on Instagram and Facebook

"Believe in yourself, follow your gut, and never say never, you have no idea what you can do." These words of hope and inspiration from Mary Celeste Beall, mother of five children and proprietor of the Blackberry farm, are what we all need to hear during the holiday season.In 2016, Mary Celeste Beall's life took an unexpected turn when she lost her beloved husband, Sam, in a shocking ski accident. Just weeks later, her professional life also transformed when she was asked by her beloved father-in-law to be the proprietor of the legendary Blackberry Farm and Blackberry Mountain resorts, a position Sam had occupied for years.Mary Celeste initially joined her late husband, Sam, as he spearheaded Blackberry Farm into a renowned food, wine, and wellness destination. In her role as Proprietor, Mary Celeste, alongside her father-in-law, Sandy, and the Blackberry team, played a pivotal role in the creation and opening of Blackberry Mountain. It has since become a haven for preservation and personal exploration in relaxation, wellness, and adventure.Under Mary Celeste's leadership, the Blackberry brand has received numerous accolades, including three James Beard Awards for Best Chef—Southeast, Outstanding Wine Program, and Outstanding Service for Blackberry Farm. Additionally, Blackberry Farm was named Bon Appétit's No. 1 Hotel for Food Lovers, while Blackberry Mountain has garnered recognition from ELLE Décor Travel A-List as the Best New Hotel, Hideaway Report as Hideaway of the Year, and inclusion in Travel + Leisure's It List for best new hotels in the world.In today’s episode, you will hear how Mary Celeste has not only been highly successful as the proprietor of Blackberry Farm and Blackberry Mountain but also excels at being open-hearted and honest about her emotions.Mary Celeste begins the conversation by sharing her vulnerability, shedding tears as she discusses a loved one who is hurting. This leads us to the story of her grief over losing her beloved Sam and her journey as a solo mom to five kids.The episode also explores how to keep loved ones alive in memories, stories, and laughter while allowing oneself to feel new love. It emphasizes that life is meant to be lived in connection with others, even when experiencing the loss of a deep love and father to your children.This episode goes beyond Mary Celeste's roles as a mom, proprietor, and widow. It delves into her life as a passionate and creative woman, known for her humor and hope.Despite almost canceling the interview on an "off" day, Mary Celeste's decision to proceed teaches us that it's possible to hold the emotions of grief and joy in the same moment. By allowing all our emotions to be expressed, we create deeper connections with others—a meaningful gift during this holiday season.Mary Celeste’s story of moving through loss to find strength and purpose is nothing short of inspiring. Tune in to this episode to be inspired by Mary Celeste Beall's remarkable journey of resilience, hope, and embracing the full spectrum of emotions.Mary Celeste's Websites: https://www.blackberryfarm.com/https://www.blackberrymountain.com/Find Mary Celeste on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/marycelestebf/ https://www.instagram.com/blackberryfarm/ https://www.instagram.com/blackberry.mountain/Learn more about Molly Carroll hereConnect with Molly on Instagram and Facebook

For many of us, this time of year is filled with joyful celebrations and creating wonderful memories with friends and family. And for many of us, this time of year can actually be a difficult and stressful time.Maybe it's the first holiday season after the loss of someone you love, or maybe you simply feel stressed about the hectic pace that often surrounds the holidays or the pressure of meeting others' expectations of what our families or celebrations "should" look like in order to make it the most perfect holiday ever.This week's guest on the Cracking Open podcast has every reason to feel stressed around the holidays and yet she has made the conscious choice to no longer live her life according to the "shoulds". Instead, she has bravely decided that speaking the truth and following her own heart is how she is going to heal and live the life that is right for her.Casey Hammer is the granddaughter of Dr. Armand Hammer, renowned industrialist and philanthropist, and the aunt of the famous actor Armie Hammer, known for his role in critically acclaimed and blockbuster movies such as Call Me By Your Name and The Social Network.Casey blew the lid off of multi-generational shocking family secrets when she released her tell-all autobiography, Surviving My Birthright, in 2015. After remaining silent for much of her life about the abuse and unimaginable trauma that she endured at the hands of her own family, she knew that the only path to healing was through speaking up and speaking out.Since the release of her book, Casey's story has also been featured in Vanity Fair's May 2021 issue, The Rise and Fall of the House of Hammer, as well as the 2022 Discovery+ and HBO MAX docuseries The House of Hammer.Throughout her life, Casey witnessed her wealthy and famous family thrive on being “perfect on the outside and twisted on the inside”, as she writes in her book.She is with us today to courageously share her story with the hope that it will help other abuse victims heal and know that they are not alone.  Casey believes her purpose is to empower other survivors of abuse by bringing awareness around consent, accountability, and speaking your truth no matter how hard or messy it might be.  She has continued her own healing journey by becoming an advocate for abuse survivors to help empower others in their own healing process.Casey is proof that the advantages of wealth and privilege do not protect someone from being subjected to a minefield of trauma and strife. And yet, she is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and our ability to rise like a phoenix from the ashes and gift the world with the wisdom of our experiences.A true case for the wounded healer, Casey has turned her pain into power, her trauma into healing, and her secrets into truth. May Casey's story inspire you to do the same in your own life.Love,MollyTrigger Warning: this episode contains conversations about abuse, domestic violence, suicide, and drug use. If you, or anyone you know, is experiencing domestic violence, you can contact The National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or visit their website here.Watch House of Hammer herePurchase Surviving My Birthright hereFollow Casey on Instagram and TikTok

I started the Cracking Open podcast with a brand new Yeti microphone and a Jenna Kutcher workshop called The Podcast Lab, where I learned how to launch and run a podcast. Even more important? I ignored the people who said things like, “Why would you start a podcast in such a saturated market?” or “How will you get any guests? It’s not like you're famous."  (Yes, someone really said this to me!) Instead, I listened deeply to my own inner cheerleader who has helped me stay the course and manifest my mission of bringing more human connection into the world. Today we launch our 50th episode!As we near the end of our 5th season, Cracking Open has reached over 20,000 downloads, and I've had the great honor of engaging in profoundly transformational conversations with some of the most prolific teachers, healers, artists, activists, survivors, authors, and leaders in the world! They are the changemakers who offer us different ways to look at our lives and the world around us. They are heart-centered humans who, through their own stories of pain and redemption, teach us to understand, forgive, and love ourselves and each other more deeply.Today's guest is exactly this kind of human. Suneel Gupta is an author and visiting scholar at Harvard Medical School who studies the most extraordinary people on the planet to discover and share simple, actionable habits to lift our performance and deepen our daily sense of purpose. His work has been featured by major outlets including CNBC, TED, and the New York Times. His newest book, Everyday Dharma: 8 Essential Practices for Finding Success and Joy in Everything You Do, was released in September and shares ancient wisdom, reimagined for modern times, as he helps us bring career goals and inner peace into harmony through tiny, everyday habits. I discovered Suneel while listening to his interview on The Good Life Project podcast. I found myself furiously taking notes as he shared his wisdom and tools on how to discover your Dharma. So get ready because Suneel has a wealth of incredible knowledge to share with us today on Cracking Open! In addition to providing practical and insightful tips, he is also a masterful storyteller. Trust me, you are in for a treat. If you want to know how to discover your own dharma and learn how to listen to your heart over your fears, this is the episode for you.Suneel was exactly who I wanted to celebrate my Dharma and 50th episode with on the Cracking Open podcast.  So from the bottom of my heart, thank you Suneel, all of the other 49 amazing guests, and all of you who have made this podcast what it is today. Love,MollyLearn more about Suneel Gupta and his work herePurchase his newly released book, Everyday Dharma, hereFollow Suneel on YouTube, LinkedIn, Instagram and TwitterLearn more about Molly Carroll hereConnect with Molly on Instagram and Facebook

I've been helping both of my children prepare for college, and as the entire family has gotten caught up in the hustle of doing "all the things" to prepare for their college futures, this podcast guest came along at just the right time to remind me that they are already enough just as they are right now.Lisa Congdon is an award-winning fine artist, illustrator, and writer who is widely accomplished despite being self-taught and not achieving career momentum until she was nearly 40 years old.Based in Portland, Oregon, Lisa now makes art for clients around the globe, including Target, Amazon, Google, Warby Parker, The Library of Congress, and MoMA. Oh, and by the way, she has also authored ten (!) books.Despite her untraditional path, Lisa has achieved recognition, not just as an artist, but as a leader in the industry for her work in social justice, knowledge sharing, mentoring, and teaching. ​​​​In March of 2021, she was named “One of the 50 Most Inspiring People and Companies According to Industry Creatives” published by AdWeek. ​​​​​In this refreshingly raw interview, she shares with us her childhood story of growing up and being told that she was a hard worker but not “gifted”, and how in adulthood with the support of a therapist, she realized that it was time to let go of that victimhood because she was the only one left who was selling herself the old story that she wasn't enough.​​​​​​​Lisa and I talk about how to find our authentic selves through creativity, how to use our voices to speak our truth, the challenges around mental health, and how to know when to quit something that is not making you a better partner, parent, creator, or overall human being.​​​​​​If you've ever believed that you are not enough, this episode is for you. Tune in for wisdom on how to face your fears and insecurities around your creativity, how to stop listening to the voices telling you that you are not enough, and how to remember in your darker days that you are never alone. There is an immense amount of joy, color, and hope available to you if you are willing to get support, prioritize yourself, and face your deepest truths.Because Lisa is more than enough. And guess what – so are you.Love,MollyLearn more about Lisa Congdon and her work hereFollow Lisa on InstagramLearn more about Molly Carroll hereConnect with Molly on Instagram and Facebook

One morning I opened an email from my literary agency and saw that they were featuring a young artist by the name of Sam Onche. I was instantly captivated by his illustrations filled with bold colors, expressive images, and intense facial expressions. They gave me chills all over my body!I knew immediately that I wanted to meet him and hear more about his story. So I invited him to come on the Cracking Open podcast, and I'm so deeply pleased that he said yes.Sam has been making art for as long as he can remember. Born in Nigeria, he came to the United States in 2015 to attend high school on a basketball scholarship. From there, he went on to college where he studied studio art with a focus in oil painting. Sam now lives in Chicago where he is an award-winning illustrator and painter.Using digital and oil mediums to create paintings and illustrations for posters, prints, book covers, and album covers, Sam uses Black art as a voice to speak out on issues, expectations, and representations of Black people in our world today. Themes that can be seen in his work are fashion, music, culture, daily life, and Afrofuturism.His goals are to ensure that Black people play a central role in the contemporary art scene and to spread a sense of positivity and self-love through his work. With each piece that he creates, he focuses on a different emotion and story.Sam’s art conveys his hope for humanity to live together as equals and to bring people of different races together – “because as much as we might look different, we are all one.”At 24 years of age, Sam taught me so much in this conversation about the power of having a strong daily work ethic to follow your dreams and passions, as well as the importance of believing in yourself even when others don't. I have no doubt that this young man's life will continue to blossom for many decades to come. Knowing that there are beautiful souls in the world like Sam gives me faith that his hope for humanity may come true after all. May his art and his words inspire you too. Love,MollyLearn more about Sam Onche and his art hereFollow Sam on InstagramLearn more about Molly Carroll hereConnect with Molly on Instagram and Facebook

Over 20 million people are suffering right now from substance abuse, often in silence. This secrecy around addiction creates shame which then increases the addiction, which then increases the shame. This vicious cycle can only be broken if we first break the stigma of addiction and the silence and shame that perpetuates it. This week's guest on the Cracking Open podcast is Reverend Jeff Grant, and he's here to do just that.         After a basketball injury, Jeff was prescribed opioids for the pain and thus began his slippery slope into substance dependency. His growing addiction led Jeff down a path filled with secrecy and lies that ultimately caused the loss of his law firm, a suicide attempt, a felony fraud conviction, and a federal prison sentence. This cracking open moment radically awakened Jeff's life and soul. After being released from prison, Jeff earned his Master of Divinity, served at an inner-city church in Bridgeport, Connecticut as Associate Minister and Director of Prison Ministries, and then co-founded Progressive Prison Ministries, Inc. – the world’s first ministry dedicated to serving people navigating the white-collar criminal justice system.  Jeff’s law license has since been reinstated, and he once again founded a private law practice in New York City where he is committed to using his legal expertise and life experience to benefit others. He also recently celebrated his 21st year of sobriety.Join us in this week's episode as we discuss what he has learned along the way about relationships, work ethic, service, God, addiction, prison, and sobriety. This is a deep dive into how to love, tell your truth, and live a meaningful spiritual life in service to others.Love,MollyLearn about Jeff Grant's work with GrantLaw, PLLC  & Progressive Prison Ministries Connect with Jeff on LinkedInLearn more about Molly Carroll hereConnect with Molly on Instagram and FacebookFeeling Stuck?It's Your Time To Get UNSTUCK3-Month Small Group Coaching ProgramStarting October 5, 2023Book a FREE discovery call with Molly today!

Today's episode on the Cracking Open podcast is someone who I would consider a cherished guide in my professional journey over the last two decades. Mary Pipher, Ph.D. is a truly extraordinary psychologist who specializes in women, trauma, and the effect of culture on our mental health.I first came across Mary's work twenty years ago when I was teaching at an all-girls school in San Francisco. I was feeling lost on how to best provide emotional support to my students when they felt left out with friends, insecure about their bodies, navigating challenges in their home lives, or struggling with feeling worthy. A fellow teacher recommended that I read a book called Reviving Ophelia by Mary Pipher. When I read her words below, I knew I had found the right guidance:“Girls struggle with mixed messages: Be beautiful, but beauty is only skin deep. Be sexy, but not sexual. Be honest, but don’t hurt anyone’s feelings. Be independent, but be nice. Be smart, but not so smart you threaten boys.” Ever since, I have read anything and everything that Mary has written and it has always been a compassionate, wise, and safe place to land. And because of this, I am pinching myself that I got to have this conversation with her and share it with all of you.Mary graduated in Cultural Anthropology from the University of California at Berkeley and received her Ph.D. from the University of Nebraska in Clinical Psychology. She was a Rockefeller Scholar in Residence at Bellagio and has received two American Psychological Association Presidential Citations, one of which she returned to protest psychologists’ involvement in enhanced interrogations at Guantánamo and other black sites.She is a community organizer and activist for many causes and has authored 11 books including 4 New York Times bestsellers. Her latest book is A Life in Light, a luminous new memoir that taps into a cultural moment to offer wisdom, hope, and insight into loss and change.In today’s episode, Mary reminds us that we don’t have to be perfect, solve every problem, or "fix" anyone. She also helps us remember that we live in a universe filled with love and light that surrounds us and is available to us, at all times. I will leave you with her wise words:“I think a wonderful life doesn't mean that a person hasn't had a lot of tragedy. It means they've had a big, rich life where they’ve been able to experience a really wide range of emotions and people and adventures and learnings of all different kinds.And of course, in terms of loving fiercely, the price for loving fiercely is the pain of goodbye, but I would always choose to love fiercely.”Love,MollyLearn more about Mary Pipher herePurchase Mary's latest book A Life In Light hereConnect with Mary on FacebookLearn more about Molly Carroll hereConnect with Molly on Instagram and FacebookFeeling Stuck?It's Your Time To Get UNSTUCK3-Month Small Group Coaching ProgramStarting October 5, 2023Book a FREE discovery call with Molly today!

This will probably be the hardest newsletter I will write about a Cracking Open podcast guest, and I avoided doing it for as long as I possibly could because I didn't want to face my heartbreak. My honored guest today is Mark Dahir, the CEO of Heart Ministry Center, a non-profit organization based in Omaha. Their mission is to provide healthcare, food, and a way forward for people severely affected by poverty, and Mark had an unquestionably positive impact on the company, its employees, and the community they serve over the many years he was a part of it. Mark and I had our deeply heartfelt conversation, which you can hear on the podcast today, back in May. On August 3rd, just 3 weeks ago, Mark suddenly and unexpectedly died from a massive heart attack. He was a healthy and active 48-year-old man, a loving father to his daughter Whitney, a loyal son and friend, and a mentor to his sober community. His death has left his friends and family shocked and saddened. At his funeral, it was frequently said that Mark gaveall of his heart to everyone he met. He certainly has left a huge hole in the hearts of all whose lives he touched, including mine.My wish for this episode is to honor Mark’s life. You will hear his story about his complicated past of addiction, mental health, and serving time. You will also hear his joy and sense of purpose as he talks about fatherhood, truth, redemption, God, service, sobriety, and hope for himself and those he mentored along the way.  Mark lived every day with intention and passion. He embodied Heart Ministry Center’s guiding motto – Dignity for All – and the organization’s core values of compassion,community, accountability, and excellence. He impacted the lives of tens of thousands of people. It is an honor to have this conversation recorded. My biggest hope is to give his daughter, family, and friends a place to land when they are deeply missing Mark's deep voice, prophetic wisdom, unending energy for change and growth, and most importantly to remember Mark’s main motto in life – be a humble worker of the heart.Love,MollyFor more information about Heart Ministry Center, its mission, and its resources, please visit:HeartMinistryCenter.orgFacebook.com/HeartMinistryCenterInstagram.com/HeartMinistryCenterLearn more about Molly Carroll hereConnect with Molly on Instagram and FacebookFeeling Stuck?It's Your Time To Get UNSTUCK3-Month Small Group Coaching ProgramStarting October 5, 2023Book a FREE discovery call with Molly today!

Cracking Open podcast has so many incredible guests lined up for you this season! Today's guest is Emily Paulson – a writer, Certified Professional Recovery Coach, TEDx Speaker, and the Founder of Sober Mom Squad. She is passionate about ending the shame and stigma of mental health and substance use disorders, and her own recovery path is focused on ruthless honesty, grace, self-love, and the belief that sharing our truth with each other is the best resource of all.Emily opens up about her struggle with alcoholism and how it led her to get sucked into the culture of multilevel marketing. This path made her millions but soon felt dishonest and exploitative. Once she got sober, she was able to clearly see the problematic environment of multilevel marketing and the many victims that get caught up in it.She has since authored two books: Highlight Real: Finding Honesty and Recovery Beyond the Filtered Life, and her newly published book Hey, Hun: Sales, Sisterhood, Supremacy, and the Other Lies Behind Multilevel Marketing. Emily has given two powerful TEDx talks, challenging the status quo of parenting, alcohol use, and feminism as we know it. She has also been featured in major publications such as the Today Show, New York Times, Washington Post, The Seattle Times, Chicago Tribune, Next Question with Katie Couric, and the Tamron Hall Show.Today's episode is ultimately about choosing compassion over shame when you reflect on your past choices. Emily helps us understand that when we feel lonely, afraid, or have unresolved trauma, we often make decisions that we think will lead us to feel connection and "normalcy" but more often than not those decisions only lead us further away from ourselves and our truth. And when we are healed and whole, our decisions and truth become much more clear and help light the way to the life we were always meant to have. Emily’s story is one of truth, sobriety, and how to get honest about the world and people around you, but most importantly with yourself.Love,MollyLearn more about Emily Paulson herePurchase Emily's books hereListen to Emily's Tedx Talks hereConnect with Emily on Facebook and Instagram Learn more about Molly Carroll hereConnect with Molly on Instagram and FacebookFeeling Stuck?It's Your Time To Get UNSTUCK3-Month Small Group Coaching ProgramStarting October 5, 2023Book a FREE discovery call with Molly today!

Hi everyone! I hope you have had a wonderful summer. I've missed being with you! My July was spent soaking up precious time with my family, relaxing, and hitting the pause button on the daily rush of life. It's so important to remember to take time for ourselves to refill our cups in all the ways we need.One of my favorite things I did during my break was re-listen to all of the amazing guests that have visited the Cracking Open podcast thus far. And – WOW! We have had some spectacular guests in Seasons 1-4! I was astonished all over again by the profound wisdom, intriguing conversations, and depth and vulnerability of every single guest that has come on the podcast. In fact, I found myself in such deep awe and gratitude, that I decided to gather some of my favorite clips from the past four seasons and put together a recap episode filled with golden nuggets of wisdom that were shared by some of our guests.It was honestly really hard to choose which ones to highlight because each episode shares an immense amount of wisdom, truth, and vulnerability. But in order to avoid making this episode several hours long, I followed my gut and chose several clips that I know you will love revisiting again too.I created the Cracking Open podcast to help people feel less alone and more hopeful. There is so much light,  even during our darkest hours, and our Cracking Open moments are what teach us the most about life and love.Love, MollyP.S. Do you know what the common thread is among all of the guests that have visited the Cracking Open podcast? The answer might surprise you... they put themselves first. They have been through the ups and downs of life, like we all have. They have faced hardships, challenges, heartbreak, and loss. They have come face-to-face with life-changing, life-defining moments. And in those moments, they chose themselves. They chose to heal; to live their truth; to show up with vulnerability and authenticity; to radically shift their circumstances; to go for the dreams they had been holding back on... it was their time and they knew it and leaned into it. Are you ready to put yourself first? Are you ready to choose YOU?It's Your Time: 6-Month Group Coaching Program with Molly CarrollStarting September 2023Interested in learning more?Book a free discovery call with Molly Carroll here.

I have had the great blessing of witnessing people's stories over the last 30 years as a therapist and teacher. During this time, I have learned to identify various archetypes – universal models of people's personalities that play a role in influencing their human behavior. Carl Jung, who founded the field of analytical psychology, developed 12 Archetypes including The Sage, The Innocent, The Explorer, and more.Through my own work in the field of psychology and human studies, I have identified another archetype that I named The Lighthouse. This archetype illuminates the parts of ourselves that are hidden or unseen. They shine a light on new ideas, perspectives, inspirations, and insights into human soulful experiences. The Lighthouse also teaches us how to become whole and accept all parts of ourselves by offering us new ways to process and integrate the darker experiences we have had in life, such as death, divorce, or disease.Today’s guest on Cracking Open, Suzanne Anderson, MA, is one of the most beautiful examples of The Lighthouse I have ever come across in my life. Suzanne is the founder of The Mysterial Woman, a psychologist, coach, leadership consultant, transformational teacher, and author of the newly released memoir & guidebook You Make Your Path By Walking. Her pioneering work in guiding women to awaken their full Feminine and Masculine strengths combines insights and practices from ancient wisdom, depth psychology, and modern neuroscience. Combining her graduate studies in women’s developmental psychology together with her decades as a leadership consultant, Suzanne wisely guides women to awaken to the next level of consciousness and leadership capacity, making the changes in themselves they want to shape in the world.She is an incredibly bright light, who has also learned how to navigate through immense darkness. Suzanne lost her beloved husband to suicide in 2013, and in the coming months also lost their island retreat center, her cat, her community, her company, and the future they had created together. Suzanne shares with us how she made it through this dark night of the soul with a certainty that this was a transformation and an awakening to reclaim her power and bring her to a place of greater compassion and love. As a Lighthouse, Suzanne shows us that when life has sent us on a deep dive into the darkness, that through practices in ancient wisdom, depth psychology, and sh*t loads of love, compassion, and support, we can rise and reawaken back into the light, more vibrant than ever before.Love,MollyLearn more about Suzanne Anderson and The Mysterial Woman herePurchase You Make Your Path By Walking hereConnect with Suzanne on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram Learn more about Molly Carroll hereGet your free Body Emotion MapConnect with Molly on Instagram and Facebook

The topic of boundaries was one of the first things I studied in my graduate school program – how to create boundaries as a therapist and how to teach and encourage clients to create their own boundaries in order to have healthier relationships and make better choices.Regardless of where you may be in your journey with boundaries, we can all acknowledge the importance of having healthy boundaries in our lives. Today's podcast guest, Melissa Urban, is a total boundary badass and an authority on helping people create lifelong healthy habits. She is the co-founder and CEO of Whole30, a 30-day program created to help you curb your cravings and bad habits, boost your metabolism, heal your digestive tract, and calm your immune system.Melissa is also a seven-time New York Times bestselling author (including the instant bestseller The Book of Boundaries), has been featured by People, Good Morning America, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, and CNBC, and is a prominent keynote speaker on boundaries, building community, health trends, and entrepreneurship.“Boundaries aren't selfish. They're acts of kindness, designed with love for them and you.” ~ Melissa Urban, The Book of BoundariesIn this enlightening conversation, Melissa provides us with step-by-step instructions on how to identify healthy boundaries and set and hold those boundaries so we can feel empowered, reclaim our voices, and live a more balanced lifestyle. She also opens up about her own Cracking Open moment of overcoming a five-year drug addiction in 2000, and how facing a childhood trauma was a huge catalyst in helping her realize the power of boundaries in staying sober and feeling more alive.These podcast episodes always seem to show up at the perfect time in my life (can you relate??). Before I interviewed Melissa, I was struggling with some boundaries in my own life, and she helped me remember that having and holding my boundaries is actually a healthy (and necessary!) act of self-love.I hope that today's podcast episode helps you find the courage to create and hold the boundaries you need to live your own healthy, vibrant, and joyous life.Love,MollyLearn more about Melissa Urban hereLearn more about Whole30 hereConnect with Melissa on Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and FacebookFollow Whole30 on Twitter, YouTube, Pinterest, and FacebookLearn more about Molly Carroll hereGet your free Body Emotion MapConnect with Molly on Instagram and Facebook