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We know Jill Duggar well thanks to her many years on TLC’s 19 Kids and Counting and Counting On. Jill was born into a Christian fundamentalist family, and she grew up with seriously strict rules that were reality TV-worthy to watch. While many thought she’d always follow in her parents’ footsteps, she seems to be slowly but surely breaking away from everything she’s ever known.

From enrolling her son into public school to her husband, Derick Dillard, speaking out on her behalf, Jill’s taking strides to live a whole new life separate from the family she grew up with. And a recent Instagram post shows she’s also now listening to a podcast rooted in science.

Jill Duggar continues to take steps to separate herself from her family

Jill Duggar Dillard (L) and husband Derick Dillard visit 'Extra' at their New York studios
Jill Duggar Dillard (L) and husband Derick Dillard visit ‘Extra’ at their New York studios | D Dipasupil/Getty Images for Extra

Jill abided by a specific set of rules growing up thanks to the precedent set by her parents, Jim Bob and Michelle. In the past, Michelle’s explained why all of the girls in the house follow a dress code, and there are also strict guidelines regarding courtships and media consumption. Today, we know Jill still dresses modestly, but she has no qualms about wearing pants or sleeveless tops if that’s what she desires.

While Jill doesn’t speak out against her famous family, her husband does. At the end of 2019, Dillard told an Instagram follower that he and Jill rarely see the other Duggars because Jill needs special permission from Jim Bob to go over to the big family home. Not only that, but Dillard also said that TLC pressured Jill into continuing filming for the network despite the molestation scandal that occurred with Josh Duggar.

She just promoted a podcast that’s based on scientific research

Jill’s still a Christian, as are all the Duggar kids. And it’s clear she’s raising her kids to be Christians as well. But it looks like she’s opening up to learning more about science.

On June 4, she posted a selfie to Instagram showing herself stitching up one of her son’s toys. Her caption reads, “#embracingmotherhood while listening to #thehappinesslabpodcast and finally stitching up Bear Bear’s hole and putting Biscuit’s ear back on.” The Happiness Lab podcast is by Yale professor Dr. Laurie Santos, and it talks about the latest scientific research in association with the feeling of happiness.

“I think she’s been listening to this for a while now,” a Reddit user speculated. “The first time I researched it expecting it to be something Christian and was happily surprised that it wasn’t.”

“It takes a strong person to overcome the limits set upon them from birth. Nothing but respect for this development!” another wrote.

Her fans are proud of her for how far she’s come

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‘Counting On’: Are the Duggar Kids Being Rewarded With Houses for Sticking to the Duggar Rules?

Fans took to Jill’s Instagram to flood her with positive comments after seeing her post. Whether they stood by her decision to listen to The Happiness Podcast or they enjoyed seeing her look so natural and at peace, her followers can definitely tell a difference in her demeanor.

“Jill, you can tell that a huge weight has been lifted off your shoulders with all the inner work you’ve been doing,” a fan commented. “Continue growing and reflecting and breaking free.”

“I don’t share your beliefs. And that’s ok,” another wrote. “I’m so impressed with the work you’ve put into yourself over the past few years to find your peace.”

“You are so amazing Jill… keep going… live exactly how you want to.. be who you want to be… god will love you no matter what… you have so much support from all of us…. DO YOU,” yet another added.

We’re loving Jill’s transformation so far, and we can’t wait to see how it progresses over time.

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