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Podcast Episode 411: Boundaries Aren’t Mean: How to Stop Over-Explaining Your Decisions

Let’s be real, mama—how many times have you tried to say “no” and suddenly found yourself giving a full three-minute monologue about why you can’t bake 48 cupcakes for the class party, host Thanksgiving, and also run carpool for the neighborhood? Yeah, same.

Here’s the truth: boundaries aren’t mean, they’re necessary. But if you’re a people-pleaser (or the family peacekeeper), setting them can feel like you’re starting unnecessary drama. That’s why in this episode, JoAnn and I are tackling the guilt, the over-explaining, and that nagging little voice that says “if you say no, they’ll hate you forever.” Spoiler alert—they won’t.

We’ll walk you through why your “no” doesn’t need a backstory, how to recognize when you’re spiraling into approval-seeking mode, and the 3 S’s trick that makes boundaries stick. Plus, we’re sharing real-life scripts you can use when your kids, in-laws, or the PTA president just don’t take no for an answer.

By the end, you’ll know exactly how to set boundaries without guilt—and without feeling like the “mean mom.” Because a clear, confident “no” isn’t selfish—it’s the ultimate mom superpower.

In this episode of the No Guilt Mom podcast you’ll learn:

  • How over-explaining totally wrecks your boundaries
  • The 3 S’s trick that makes saying no actually feel easy
  • The sneaky little reason you keep caving (and how to kick it to the curb)
  • Phrases that shut down pushback faster than your kid begging for snacks at bedtime

Resources We Shared In This Episode:

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Access the full episode transcript HERE

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Author Bio
Brie Tucker

Brie Tucker

COO/ Podcast Producer at No Guilt Mom
Brie Tucker has over 20 years of experience coaching parents with a background in early childhood and special needs. She holds a B.S. in Psychology from the University of Central Missouri and is certified in Positive Discipline as well as a Happiest Baby Educator.

She’s a divorced mom to two teenagers.
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You are here: Home No Guilt Mom Podcast Self-Care & Mental Health Podcast Episode 411: Boundaries Aren’t Mean: How to Stop Over-Explaining Your Decisions
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Podcast Episode 411: Boundaries Aren’t Mean: How to Stop Over-Explaining Your Decisions
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boundaries for moms, boundaries with kids, Episode, how to say no without guilt, how to set boundaries without guilt, how to stop over explaining, setting boundaries as a mom, stop people pleasing
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how to set boundaries without guilt
Last Updated:
October 6, 2025
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