In this deeply moving episode of the Generous Girl Podcast, host Kim Moeller sits down with Mary Tomlinson—a coach, speaker, and former Disney executive—whose life story is a remarkable testimony of faith, resilience, and purpose. From childhood trauma to corporate leadership to launching her own business, Mary Tomlinson’s journey is a beacon of hope for women navigating pain, identity, and calling.
🎧 Watch the full episode with Mary Tomlinson (Part 1): Click to view on YouTube
🌐 Explore more episodes of faith and leadership at GenerousGirl.com
📘 Learn about On-Purpose coaching: onpurpose.me
Mary Tomlinson reflects on her life in ten-year chapters—each marked by pain, progress, and ultimately, purpose. Her early years in Concord, California, appeared outwardly normal. But behind closed doors, her family was falling apart.
At age 10, Mary entered what she calls her “trauma decade.” Over the next ten years, she endured her parents’ separation, domestic violence, public fights, and even a cross-country kidnapping. Living under the roof of an abusive stepfather, she learned early to rely on the comfort and strength of Jesus.
💬 Mary’s Reflection: “I found faith in the middle of chaos. Jesus became my anchor.”
🔗 More stories of faith at GenerousGirl.com
The next decade—her twenties—was filled with confusion and identity struggles. Mary Tomlinson married young but felt adrift, unsure of her role in both marriage and adulthood. Holding on by a thread, her marriage survived only by God’s grace.
In her thirties and forties, Mary rose through the corporate ranks at The Walt Disney Company, managing global projects while raising two children. Though outwardly successful, the pressure and pace left her longing for deeper meaning.
📖 Learn how other Christian women navigate career and calling in our Faith & Vocation Collection
At age 45, Mary Tomlinson sensed God nudging her toward entrepreneurship. Though she was ready to leap, she waited on God’s timing—and just one year later, Disney offered a voluntary severance package. She took the opportunity as God’s green light.
Starting a business wasn’t easy. Mary’s early years as a coach were marked by financial stress and spiritual testing, but she leaned into God’s provision. Through the challenges, she discovered a new purpose: to help others live with intention.
🔗 Discover coaching resources at onpurpose.me
Today, Mary Tomlinson leads a thriving coaching practice rooted in helping clients discover their two-word purpose statement using Kevin McCarthy’s On-Purpose framework. Her own purpose—“inspiring hope”—is a direct outgrowth of her personal healing.
Mary walks people through identifying their values, vision, and spiritual design so they can live lives of alignment and freedom. Whether they’re in transition, facing burnout, or seeking clarity, Mary helps them find their God-given “why.”
💬 Mary’s Quote: “Your purpose is not what you do—it’s who you are.”
🔗 Get started with purpose coaching: onpurpose.me
Mary Tomlinson knows the tension working moms often face in faith communities. She was judged for working outside the home—by both church peers and corporate colleagues. That experience birthed her passion for supporting professional Christian women.
She co-founded J4 Leaders and Professional Christian Women, organizations that empower women to integrate faith and career without guilt or comparison. These communities offer mentorship, networking, and encouragement for women called to both the boardroom and the Bible.
🔗 Learn more about J4 Leaders
For women with painful pasts or uncertain futures, Mary Tomlinson’s message is clear: God never wastes pain. Healing may take time and often comes in hindsight—but every experience can shape your purpose.
Whether you’re in a season of rebuilding, waiting, or launching something new, Mary reminds us that hope is real, and purpose is possible—no matter your age or story.
📖 Featured Verse: Romans 8:28 – “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him.”
🔗 Watch Mary Tomlinson’s (Part 1) full episode: YouTube Interview
🌐 Explore more guest stories: Generous Girl Podcast Archive
📘 Learn about the On-Purpose Coaching: onpurpose.me
🙏 Support women’s leadership ministries: j4leaders.org
📖 Featured Scripture: Romans 8:28
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