From our choices to our looks, biology to identity, marriage to motherhood, careers to caregiving—women are often handed two options: defy or conform. But what if defying expectations isn’t about rebellion for rebellion’s sake? What if it’s about trusting yourself enough to say no when the world demands yes?

In this episode of This Is Woman’s Work, we’re talking about how to defy expectations with the brilliant Dr. Sunita Sah. Dr. Sah is an award-winning professor at Cornell University, an expert in organizational psychology, and a leading researcher on influence, authority, compliance, and defiance. Her new book, DEFY: The Power of No in a World That Demands Yes, is a rallying cry for ending submissive behavior and living authentically.

This conversation isn’t about being difficult—it’s about being true to yourself. Whether you’re standing up to societal pressures, breaking free of outdated norms, or simply giving yourself permission to live authentically, this episode will inspire you to rewrite the rules and embrace the power of no.

As women, we’re often taught to conform, but Dr. Sah shows us why defying expectations isn’t just an act of resistance—it’s an act of self-preservation and growth.

Connect with Dr. Sunita Sah:

Website: https://sunitasah.com/ 

Book: https://www.amazon.com/Defy-Power-World-That-Demands/dp/0593793714 

IG: https://www.instagram.com/drsunitasah/ 

X: https://x.com/ProfSunitaSah 

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• 159 / Unapologetically BOLD with Vaneese Johnson

• 201 / How To Find The Right Words When Creating Boundaries with Amy Green Smith

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