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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Brie Tucker
COO/ Podcast Producer at No Guilt Mom
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