The 3 in 30 podcast birthday always makes me reflective.
Each year, I try to pause and honor what this community has become—thanks to you, the mothers who listen, share, and show up with such open hearts.
This year, as 3 in 30 Takeaways for Moms turns eight 🎉, I’m especially grateful for one woman who has been a quiet but steady part of this journey: my dear friend and longtime team member, Molly Alexander.
Seven years ago, right around the podcast’s first birthday, I got an email that changed everything.
At that time, I was running the show completely on my own—recording, editing, emailing, posting—and though I loved the work, I was exhausted. Then, out of the blue, a young mom named Molly reached out and asked if I needed any help. Her message wasn’t a formal pitch or a long list of credentials—it was simply heartfelt, sincere, and full of enthusiasm for the work.
That simple email became one of the greatest blessings of my professional and personal life.
Over the next seven years, Molly shaped nearly every part of 3 in 30: replying to listener messages, coordinating projects, editing show notes, and caring deeply about the women in this community. More importantly, she became a dear friend who helped me carry the emotional weight of building something meaningful while also being a mom.
As we celebrate eight years of 3 in 30, Molly recently made the bittersweet decision to step away from her role. To mark both milestones, I invited her to be a guest on the podcast—sharing the three lessons she’s carrying into her next chapter. Her wisdom is simple, profound, and so aligned with the heart of this show.
Molly’s 3 in 30 birthday Reflections:
1. Pain × Resistance = Suffering
This simple math equation, first introduced by Becky and Candace of the Mindful Art Company, became a lifeline for Molly—and for me. It’s a reminder that pain itself isn’t the enemy; it’s the resistance to pain that amplifies our suffering.
As mothers, we often feel shame for struggling: I should be happier. I have so much to be grateful for. Why do I still feel low? Molly’s takeaway invites us to meet those feelings with compassion instead of criticism. When we stop resisting, we create space to heal.
2. Let Go of Heavy Expectations
For years, Molly assumed she would homeschool her children. It was something she dreamed about and felt sure would be part of her identity as a mother. But when that vision didn’t fit her reality, she had to learn how to release it without shame.
Her insight is one every mom can relate to: letting go of the heavy “shoulds” we carry allows us to embrace what actually works for our families. When we give ourselves permission to grow and change, motherhood becomes a more peaceful, personal experience.
3. Be a True Friend, Not Just a Friendly One
Over her years with 3 in 30, Molly saw firsthand the power of women gathering, supporting, and cheering for one another—through workshops, retreats, and everyday connection.
She learned that being “friendly” isn’t the same as being a true friend. Real friendship takes vulnerability and honesty. It’s the kind of connection that lets us show up as we are—messy, tired, and still growing—and find safety there.
Do these 3 in 30 birthday reflections from the Molly resonate with you? Comment below!
***
Related Episodes on Molly’s 3 in 30 Birthday Reflections:
Sponsors:
- BetterHelp: 3 in 30 Takeaways for Moms is sponsored by BetterHelp. Go to betterhelp.com/3in30 to get 10% off your first month of online therapy.
- Cure Hydration: For 3 in 30 Takeaways for Moms listeners, Cure is offering 20% off your first order! Just go to curehydration.com/3in30 and use code 3in30 at checkout.
- Motherhood Decluttered: If you want to take my Motherhood Decluttered Audio course, use code PODCAST to get 20% off. Our free “buddy pass” is going away soon- don’t wait!
IF YOU WANT MORE:
- Join me on Instagram!
- Get weekly-ish emails with BTS of my life
- Find Your Magic in Motherhood: Free 3-Day Email Course
***
