In this episode of Food Shrinks, Molly Carmel, Clarissa Kennedy, and Molly Painschab open up about the everyday struggles of saying no, setting boundaries, and navigating the fawn response. With humor, honesty, and lived experience, the trio explores how people-pleasing, guilt, and self-abandonment show up in both personal and professional spaces—and how these patterns often connect to food, stress, and recovery.

💬 Topics we cover: • Why setting boundaries feels so uncomfortable (and why “no” rarely feels like enough) • The fawn response and how it fuels overwhelm, resentment, and food use • Codependency, trauma responses, and the Karpman drama triangle (rescuer, persecutor, victim) • The link between guilt, self-abandonment, and eating as regulation • Real stories of how boundaries get tested between friends, family, and colleagues • Why practicing boundaries is messy but essential for recovery and well-being

✨ Takeaways: • Boundaries are a daily practice, not a one-time skill. • Guilt doesn’t mean you’re doing something wrong—it often means you’re breaking old patterns of self-abandonment. • Observing your reactions and slowing down can create space for wise mind choices. • Progress matters more than perfection—each “no” is a step toward self-respect and self-care. If you’ve ever found yourself saying yes when you meant no, or using food to soothe the stress of people-pleasing, this conversation is for you.

📩 Got a question you’d like us to answer on the podcast? Email us at [email protected].

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The content of our show is educational only. It does not supplement or supersede your healthcare provider's professional relationship and direction. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified mental health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, substance use disorder, or mental health concern.