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:

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 compassion
• Former CEO of Accuray (NASDAQ: ARAY), where he helped develop CyberKnife technology, saving countless lives worldwide
• Founder 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 benefactor
• New 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 categories

In 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
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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 decisions
• Develop coping strategies for anxiety and depression
• Navigate life transitions with clarity and purpose
• Create more joy, balance, and healthy habits

Learn 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