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
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From Rock Bottom to Redemption with Lara Love Hardin
