Almost 30: A Definitive Guide to a Life You Love for the Next Decade and Beyond

by Lindsey Simcik, Krista Williams

Go from lost to a life you love and make your thirties your best decade yet with this inspiring, hilarious, and vulnerable book from creators of the #1 critically acclaimed podcast, Almost 30.

The years leading up to 30 can feel more agonizing than exciting. The pressure to have it all figured out—your job, your relationship, your LIFE—is intense. And as if that’s not enough, bam! Along comes Saturn Return, a cosmic milestone that thrusts you into adulthood … ready or not.

Yes, it can all feel overwhelming, and the fear of the unknown is real. While part of you might want to cling to the status quo (whether it’s actually working for you or not), there is another, more powerful part of you that won’t allow that to happen. This book is here to talk to that part of you.

Lindsey Simcik and Krista Williams—creators of the #1, critically acclaimed wellness podcast and global community Almost 30—help you navigate this season of astronomical (and astrological) transition in your life. Consider them the big sisters of your Saturn Return, here to guide you, hold your hand, and cheer you on as you embark upon this monumental transition that will touch every single part of your life, from your body to your relationships to your spirituality. In addition to looking back at their own alternately hilarious and insightful experiences of being almost thirty, this book contains the expert insights, research, practices, and tools they’ve cultivated through nearly a decade of hosting Almost 30.

Dive into thought exercises, meditations, journaling prompts, and sage advice from expert podcast guests such as Jay Shetty, Gabrielle Bernstein, Glennon Doyle, Nicole LaPera, and many more. Almost 30 is the go-to book for every woman standing on the cusp of where they’ve been and where they’re going. Because change is imminent, and we’re all almost … something.

Genres: Nonfiction, Self Help, Audiobook, Personal Development

352 pages, Hardcover

Published June 3, 2025

About the author

Lindsey Simcik is a creative force, entrepreneur, and media personality best known as the co-founder and co-host of the critically acclaimed Almost 30 podcast. Alongside her co-host Krista, she also launched Morning Microdose, a wildly popular daily show serving up the best bits of Almost 30. Beyond the mic, Lindsey created *The Sacredness of Being Single* program, guiding thousands of women to embrace this in-between with confidence.

Reviews

[Alex (novelswithalex)]

EDIT 06/11/25

I have received a finished copy of the book and went to the 39% mark (~pages 128 & 129) and while it seems that the book has been edited to remove a lot of the anti-birth control rhetoric, some of it still remains AND they decided to include some MAHA rhetoric as well. Namely, they focus on the hot (regularly misunderstood and vague) buzzword “processed food”. If you’d like to know more about why “processed food” is a dogwhistle for the MAHA movement, check out the podcast Maintenance Phase where they recently did a deep dive into the history of the term “processed food” and how it has become a way for people to demonize any food they believe is detrimental.

These few pages to me just feel like a lightly coded way of integrating MAHA values into the mainstream. They’re decorating it with a cute cover and relatable silly language, but it’s just as dangerous.


Original review:

DNF’ed @ 39%

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for sending me this ARC, however I can’t in good conscious continue with it. There is some disturbing and blatant anti-birth control rhetoric at the 39% mark and I find it to be irresponsible given the current political climate in the US. They share claims, anecdotes, and opinions as if they’re facts, which that alone is irresponsible especially when you’re framing this book as a way to help younger women and act as moral/health guides. This book needs to be thoroughly edited with this section either revised or omitted before publishing.

[Lottie Smalley · Rating 3 out of 5]

i’m only 27 ok!!!

no but seriously this one was a mixed bag. a friend recommended this one cause we’re exploring more about our upcoming saturn returns 🪐 I found the astrology parts interesting and there were definitely moments that felt inspiring, but there were also parts that kinda made me roll my eyes. I don’t mind spiritual or “woo woo” stuff, but this leaned a little too far that way for me. it’s very L.A.!

I listened to the audiobook through my library (thanks libby 😘), and thought that would be ideal since the authors co-host a podcast (which I’ve never listened to). and it was fine, but maybe better suited for a physical read since there are a ton of journaling exercises and meditations (not super ideal when you’re driving).

I liked the idea of reflecting on your twenties as you head into a new chapter, but sometimes it felt more preachy than helpful? I could understand what they were trying to say, but the delivery just fell kinda flat for me. I think you could just listen to their podcast and cherry pick episodes you might care about instead 🤷‍♀️

[Marissa Jauch · Rating 1 out of 5]

while there were a few tidbits i agreed with, i mostly thought this was a book full of bad advice by two out of touch, self absorbed people. i mean, the career section starts by saying you shouldn't make career moves based on finances alone and while that's great for someone with enough money to proselytize on the internet for a living, the vast majority of americans (the assumed audience) absolutely do not have that luxury.

the health section was laughable. an entire chapter on not dieting, loving your body, not worrying about weight, etc. followed directly by weird MAHA fear mongering. and of course, it's out of touch. processed foods aren't inherently bad. some additives are added for good reason, i.e. oils to help your food not stick to the package it comes in, or anti-caking agents to you know... stop caking. and again, many americans don't have easy access to affordable whole foods. like, some people don't even have clean water! when they talked about how they "drink with intention" i knew this was too far for me. respectfully, i am not going to say some fuck ass mantra before every drink. give me a break. and don't even get me started on the birth control thing!

then i went online and saw that one of these women is experiencing what i can only describe as light religious psychosis. huge pass.

[Jasmine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow, what an incredibly informative and inspirational read. Although the book is titled Almost 30, it definitely suits everyone, including people of all ages and from all walks of life. This book is basically a compilation of the author's own podcast episodes, where she shares her happy memories, doubts, fear of the future, and everything in between related to the uncertainty in life. It's kind of relieving to know that we are never truly alone in this lifelong journey to personal growth and self-exploration. Each chapter in this book is extremely detailed and well-written. This isn't your typical chicken soup for the soul, but rather, something I am sure everyone will be able to take away some helpful and practical tips to live your life more colorfully. Lastly, whether you are in doubt or not, go check out this book!

***Thanks to the publisher for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.***

[Heidi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this one in the week before my 30th birthday and I really enjoyed it!
I’d never heard of a Saturn Return before (not super into astrology), but a LOT of what they said applies to my life right now. Like, a LOT.
So while some of it is a bit woo-woo for my personal tastes, I recommend this book to anyone near 30 just to help you feel less alone if you’re like me and your life is completely off the rails. 😅

I received an advance copy from the publisher, all opinions are my own, and a review was not required.

[Chloe]

I liked this book a little better when I stopped reading it as a "how-to" book and instead read it as an "I'm interested to know what these people think/believe" book. But still, overall not for me.

For a non-fiction book to be successful, I think it needs to have at least one of two things: 1. the author needs to prove that they are an expert in the field they are writing about, or 2. they need to have an interesting/unique story/perspective and be willing to vulnerably write about that. Unfortunately, Almost 30 accomplished neither of these benchmarks. It seems to me like this book was written for people who are already a fan of Simcik & Williams podcast. Which is fine, but I'm not a part of that audience.

[Shelby Gee · Rating 3 out of 5]

Almost30 is a “how to navigate your Saturn Return” that covers big topics like health, purpose, relationships, and more. The authors are podcast hosts (same title) and they write using their own lives as examples, and additionally include quotes and lessons from podcast guests.
I felt the book was basic and thus boring to read.
However, I do think this book would be helpful for anyone (not just women, though that is the primary audience) who is feeling lost in their late 20s-30s.
I received an ARC.

[JB K · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is not for people who are Almost 30- this book is for everyone. It covers the challenges that most young people (especially women) face in their late 20's, but I am 31, married with kids and was highlighting the heck out of this thing. It feels like a reference book, covering relationships, money, body, and spirit.

Make no mistake- this book is not a quick read. I went into this expecting it to be a cutesie self help book and it WAS NOT! It took me a full ten days with a lot of *puts the book down and looks thoughtfully in the distance* moments for me to metabolize the content.

I have been a long time listener of the Almost 30 pod and I felt like I was gleaning new insights with each chapter. There are also some really great ways of leveraging this book into further self exploration, be it with guided meditations, journal prompts, or quotes from Almost 30 episodes that a reader could dive into if the chapter really speaks to them.

I would recommend this book for women who feel lost in the sauce. I don't know how to be more specific than that, but if you are that person - you know it.

Thank you to NetGalley for the eARC!

[Brooke Mucha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Almost lost me during the chapter about spirituality, and but glad I hung on.

Felt like I had some major realizations and 🤯-moments throughout almost all of these chapters.

I took what I needed from this book and appreciate having listened.

[Anna Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

THE book recommendation I’d give to anyone navigating their mid-twenties to early thirties 🙌🏻

I wish this had been written even sooner because even at 30, I gained SO MUCH valuable insights and life advice, and it would have been even more incredible to have access to this guide when faced with these topics through my 20s as well!

They cover everything from body image, to friendships, to career decisions, and more!

This isn’t just your average inspirational self-help book. They give PRACTICAL advice to navigate challenges that many of us face in our 20s that aren’t talked about often enough.

Thank you @lindseysimcik and @itskrista for sharing your hearts with us and thank you to @stmartinspress for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest review!

[Isabella Vaccaro · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a NECESSITY if you are in your late twenties or just navigating a big change in your life. Krista and Lindsey literally hand us everything we need to know to create a profound spiritual practice, deep relationships, financial abundance, and a purposeful career. They understand what it's like to feel lost and give us the roadmap to finding our way out of the mess, just like they did. It's a mix of their deeply personal stories, sage advice from many of their incredible podcast guests, and insanely helpful prompts and exercises to help you get to know yourself on a new level. If you want to jump onto your highest timeline in this lifetime, this is THE book to get you there. ;)

[shan · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5/5⭐️

[Jessie Schroeder · Rating 4 out of 5]

Listened to this one on audiobook, and i definitely recommend. The chapters on friendship and dating were especially helpful ✨

[Shivangi Khanna · Rating 3 out of 5]

Some decent nuggets every so often but like, meh.

[Gabriela Lech]

Picked this up because of the podcast. Nothing groundbreaking.

[Alyssa · Rating 1 out of 5]

Decided to DNF instead of push through. This book starts off with a lot of Saturn return and if you know me, you know i’m just not that kind of person. i thought it might taper off but it didn’t. Its just not for me 🤷🏼‍♀️

[Katherine Estrella · Rating 5 out of 5]

For the girlies who had their Saturn return flip them over like a pancake

[Ashley Scow]

DNF @ 12% If I wanted to listen to a podcast, I would have done so instead. This seemed too informal and kitschy and I didn’t want to waste any more time on it.

I hope others gain more valuable and motivating information than I did.

[Ariana Emmer Mitchell · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am 33 and wish SO BADLY that I had this book when I was in the thick of my Saturn return. Everything was so on point with what it felt like to go through the shift of your 20s to your 30s. Reflecting on that time of my life while listening to this on audible was very healing. Love Krista and Lindsey’s dynamic together. ♡

[Jennifer · Rating 2 out of 5]

Meh. Had a few interesting tidbits, but was mostly too broad to be helpful and certainly too long - I was frequently bored and just wishing it was over.

[KG · Rating 5 out of 5]

You don’t need to be almost 30 to gain nuggets of wisdom from this excellent book. I haven’t highlighted, underlined and earmarked a book like this in years. Lindsey and Krista’s writing is so inviting and easily digestible. I’ll definitely be coming back to this beautiful book for years to come. Don’t sleep on this one!

[Madeline · Rating 3 out of 5]

The journalling exercises in this book were killer. I read my fair share of self-help books, and this is truly the first time I've stopped an audiobook to do the exercises before I continued. They directly reflected the content of the chapters, but they weren't the typical hokey stuff I've seen in other books. They did actually provide some insights for me, and I'm grateful to have done them. In particular, I really grew a lot from examining my own assumptions about the "can'ts" in my life and why I think them. Even if I can't (ha!) change a lot of them right now, I have a much clearer vision of my own biases about my current situation.

I'm not big on astrology, so I never really bought into the Saturn Return thing, which was a central aspect to this book. However, setting that aside, it did have some good advice, and especially reflections, about change at this big point in our lives. The biggest drawback to this book for me is that it seemed to make a lot of assumptions about the reader — especially that the readers were extremely similar to the writers. Usually I take a "take what you can, leave the rest" to self-help books, but this one was so narrow that it was hard to even relate at some parts, which actively worked against the point of "feel less alone." Is everyone dating around and having lots of sex at this age? Not me or my friends, some of whom have never dated and many of whom are in longterm relationships. Is everyone this age struggling that hard with debt? I'm certainly not, and it made me seriously question whether I'm doing almost-thirty "right" and properly living. Is everyone living their lives questioning their moves to big cities while on their second-or-third-choice career path? That's not where I am, nor is it the story of anyone in my immediate or extended circles. There did seem to be an undercurrent of tunnel-vision, which would be more forgivable if it wasn't subtitled "A Definitive Guide...". The authors approached the section on religion with inclusivity and care, from my perspective. I wish the same energy was brought to all of the chapters.

I did like that the book was read by the authors, and the commentary at the end was fun. It's easy to see how the podcast flows based on how the authors spoke with each other. I also appreciated the insight into the creation, and especially the regrets. I thought the story about the weight-loss drugs was one of the most refreshing and honest things I've heard in a while, so I'm not surprised it was difficult to tell, but I also don't think it's worth regret!

With love and thanks to Macmillan Audio for the ARC!

[Justine Palkowski · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’ve been following Almost 30 since 2017 (basically since the beginning), so I’ve been looking forward to this book for years. But honestly? I was disappointed. I felt like it wasn’t for me. I’ve supported Krista and Lindsey through their whole journey, but this book, with a title that promises so much more, was really only for people in their mid-to-late 20s going through Saturn return. The rest of us, the same age as the authors, were just… forgotten.

To give credit where it’s due, I liked how the book was structured and loved the journal promps. Lindsey’s story about living in NYC drew me in, and the first few chapters on spirituality, body, food, etc. were solid. I tried to take what I could from each chapter, but every time Saturn return came up, it was a reminder: this book isn’t for you. It was written for SUCH a niche audience, and that should have been clear in the title. If they had even attempted to say, “If you’ve already been through your Saturn return, think back to that time…,” it would have gone a long way. Instead, it felt like they didn’t even try to include longtime listeners who are past that phase.

The part that really lost me was the body image section with Krista and Jenna Kutcher. I’m a huge Jenna fan, but hearing them talk about breaking up with the scale and criticizing their bodies less just felt inauthentic when both of them have very publicly lost significant weight in recent years. Easy to say when you’ve already had your transformation. For anyone new to their world, maybe this section hits differently, but for longtime listeners who actually know their stories, it felt misleading. In a podcast intro (and about the time this book was being written), Krista said, "I look hotter than ever." Which would be fine because she should be able to feel confident, but don't write a book making it sound like your body stayed the same and it was your mindset that shifted.

In the end, if the goal was to reach only women in their mid-to-late 20s and exclude anyone who is “almost something,” then mission accomplished. But as a loyal listener who has been here since the early days, I walked away disappointed. I was hoping to still have some takeaways as I transition to my "almost" 40's.

[Kate Laycoax · Rating 5 out of 5]

📖✨ Almost 30 by Lindsey Simcik and Krista Williams

I'm a huge fan of the podcast Almost 30, and I think this book will be so amazing for not only listeners of the show, but anyone who feels like their late twenties is one big "WTF is happening?" moment, Almost 30 is about to become your new best friend. 🫶💕 Written by the brilliant minds behind the Almost 30 podcast, Lindsey and Krista are here to hold your hand through every “almost-adult” crisis and cosmic shakeup you’re going through, including that dreaded Saturn Return (yes, it’s a thing, and yes, they explain it all). 🌌

This book is like sitting down with your wisest, funniest big sisters who totally get it. Through candid stories, wellness tips, and guidance from major guest experts like Jay Shetty and Glennon Doyle, you’ll get the tools to not only survive but thrive through the chaos. ✨ Think journaling prompts, meditations, and thought-provoking questions that make you dig deep and get real about where you’re going. I love that each chapter reveals a new life lesson that we should definitely know by the time we enter our 30s. We might feel like we don't know what we are doing and don't know where to go next, but we can find ourselves with this guide.

If you’re feeling lost, restless, or just in need of a loving nudge toward the life you really want, Almost 30 will give you all the laughs, insights, and motivation to make your thirties your best decade yet. 🥂

Thank you to NetGalley, Lindsey Simcik & Krista Williams, and St. Martin's Press for the eARC of this book.

[Marielle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I actually found the section on birth control to be one of the most eye-opening and important in the book. Women deserve access to information about how hormonal birth control can impact the brain and body—not to instill fear, but to support informed, empowered choices. The authors included both personal experience AND expert insights, grounded in peer-reviewed science, to highlight a perspective that’s often left out of mainstream conversations (as much as women's health convos are!) While I can see how it may have felt confronting, labeling it as “anti-birth control”(as someone else commented) overlooks the nuance and intention behind this chapter. Open dialogue is important, especially on topics that directly affect our health and autonomy — THAT is a very real threat to our lives given the current political climate in the US. Bravo Krista and Lindsey!

I also really appreciated the chapters on friendship breakups and evolving family dynamics—SO real and relatable. These are experiences that we all go through, and the way the book navigated them felt both validating and practical. The advice wasn’t sugar-coated, but it was compassionate and empowering—exactly what I needed to hear. It reminded me that outgrowing relationships doesn’t mean failure.. just growth.

Can't recommend this book enough for anyone in their late 20s/ early 30s!

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

I haven’t even finished Almost 30 yet, and I already know it’s one of the most meaningful and aligned books I’ve ever picked up. Even from the very first page, I felt seen, understood, and guided. I’ve been searching for something that could speak to the exact feelings I’ve been having & this is it.
I’m so grateful and truly proud of Krista and Lindsey for publishing something so beautiful. Their words feel like a warm hug from a best friend who’s walked the same road and is lovingly handing you the map. This book doesn’t shy away from the complexities of growth, healing, identity, and self-worth, but it also manages to feel light, uplifting, and even fun. It’s beautifully grounded in wisdom while also leaving space for curiosity, expansion, and joy.
I’ve never recommended a book more. Truly.

As someone who is one month away from turning 30, this book couldn’t have entered my life at a better time. It’s helping me embrace this transition with more grace and excitement than fear. It’s the book I didn’t know I needed but had been yearning for all along.

[Chiara Christian · Rating 5 out of 5]

At 28, I've been feeling the effects of my late 20s and Saturn Return particularly hard in the last year. THIS IS THE BOOK I NEEDED!!! Genuinely, everything mentioned in here felt so pertinent and resonated so deeply. I was absolutely balling my eyes out at JFK when listening to the chapter on 'relationships' (maybe don't listen to some of the heavy hitting chapters in public spaces lol). After finishing the book, I felt a sense of peace in knowing that even though it feels like my life is a mess right now and nothing is figured out, I'm exactly where I'm supposed to be: deepening my connection to my soul and life I want to create for myself. I immediately want to buy a copy for all of my friends who are the same age.

(btw, I listened to the audio book first, but will likely buy a physical copy too. Hearing their voices and also getting a bonus chapter really made the audio book worth it!!)

[Carrie]

This book is definitely NOT a quick read - an important note to make before you pick this book up looking for a light self-help or self-improvement book! I anticipated going into this book with a light self-help vibe, but this was an intense and hardcore book that I wasn't expecting.

This will be great for women in their mid-to-late-twenties who may be looking to answer some big questions and make some big changes. Definitely would be a good book for someone who is feeling lost and needs some direction! As someone in their mid-thirties happily married with kids and a career, I don’t think this book was for me.

Thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Essentials for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review!

[Fireplace.Bookworm · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really wanted to love this one, there were parts I enjoyed, but much of this book is written for a very specific audience. This book is written for those in their mid-to late 20s who are single and without children. That has never been me. I think this excludes a very broad population of women as well. I was hoping for some insights of navigating life and finding yourself in this new world of mother and wife hood. This book isn’t that. It doesn’t make it bad by any means but I could relate to very little. I did struggle with some of the medical advice (like birth control) that was given and could be very harmful for some.

[Madeleine Boyce · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a longtime follower of the Almost 30 podcast, I was so excited to see they turned some of the best stories and narratives from the podcast into book form! I will say, if you have listened to a lot of the podcast, this novel will feel like a repeat of a lot of things you've already heard Lindsey and Krista discuss on the podcast. I enjoyed learning more about their backstories that led them to become friends and start the podcast. I do genuinely think there is good advice in this novel for anyone navigating this chapter of life!