Relentless & Real

Ep 3. – Stop Yes-ing Yourself to Death: How to Say No


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In this episode, Heather and Jenny get real about one of the hardest leadership skills for women: saying no—clearly, calmly, and without guilt.

Because the truth is: women don’t just overcommit… we yes ourselves into resentment. We say yes to be accommodating, flexible, and “a team player,” then end up exhausted, bitter, and stretched thin.

This episode is practical and tactical. You’ll walk away with ready-to-use scripts for saying no at work and at home, plus simple strategies to protect your priorities, set boundaries, and stop letting “time vampires” hijack your day.

  • Why saying no is a disciplined behavior, not a personality trait

  • How to prepare for predictable requests so you don’t default to yes

  • The role of priorities + boundaries in making “no” easier (and cleaner)

  • What to say when someone asks, “Do you have a minute?” (you don’t)

  • How to respond when something gets dumped on your desk that isn’t your job

  • How to avoid the “soft no” that sounds like a yes

  • Delegation scripts—especially if you’re the “she’ll figure it out” person

  • How to handle hallway meetings, gossip, and other time vampires

  • Boundary-setting at home: family calls, time limits, and honoring relationships without being drained

  • “We yes ourselves to death.”

  • “Don’t prolong the pain—say no upfront.”

  • “I’ve got three minutes. What you got?”

  • “If you don’t see me write it down, it’s not happening.”

  • “This is a predictable event. Be prepared.”

This week, pick one situation where you usually default to yes—and script your no ahead of time.
Then use it once. Clean. Clear. No guilt.

In This Episode, You’ll LearnFavorite Lines / Quote PullsListener Challenge

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