Why is the word “no” so hard to say—even when we’re overwhelmed, out of time, or just not up for it?In this episode of Small Talk: Work, Play, Build, hosts Subha and Hasita dive into the uncomfortable but essential skill of saying no—at work, at home, and everywhere in between.

From people-pleasing at the office to emotional labour at home, we explore how cultural conditioning, guilt, and the “good girl” myth keep us stuck in cycles of yes. You’ll hear real talk on navigating client boundaries, setting expectations with loved ones, and using alternatives and data to say no without burning bridges.

-Why setting boundaries isn’t selfish

- How to say no professionally (and politely)

- What it means to say yes to yourself- The hidden cost of always saying yes

- Real strategies to protect your time and energy

Whether you're negotiating a deadline, declining yet another WhatsApp favour, or trying to leave that family group without drama—this episode has something for you.

00:00 – Introduction: Why Saying No Is So Hard01:37 – Welcome + Why This Topic Matters05:31 – Saying No at Work (Clients, Bosses & Deadlines)15:08 – Cultural Conditioning and the “Good Girl” Syndrome21:32 – Boundaries at Home (Kids, Parents, Partners)29:57 – Practical Ways to Say No with Grace31:26 – Read, Watch, Listen Recommendations

Listen, reflect, and start building your boundaries—one no at a time.

#howtosayno #setboundaries #worklifebalance #mentalhealth #smalltalkwpb #podcastforprofessionals #womenatwork #careercoaching #productivitytips #burnoutrecovery

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Small Talk: Work, Play, Build is the latest season of Small Talk. As a business podcast in its fifth year of production now, we look forward to having many conversations with you on what it means to live a life that feels true to each of us, both at work and outside of it.

Subscribe to stay tuned when a new episode releases, every fortnight.

Instagram @smalltalk_wpb

Website http://www.smalltalkpod.com

Media enquiries smalltalkpod.wpb@gmail.com

Copyright © Rainkraft Creative Solutions (OPC) Pvt. Ltd. No segment of this episode or its accessories may be reproduced for commercial use without explicit written permission from the creators.

Small Talk: Work, Play, Build

Subha Chandrasekaran

Hasita Krishna

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