In this powerful episode of Healing Doesn’t Have to Hurt, April and Andrea dive deep into one of the hardest skills most of us will ever learn: setting boundaries without guilt. What does it really mean to say “no”—and actually mean it? Why does the word feel so intimidating, especially for people-pleasers, over-givers, and caretakers?

Drawing from real experiences, childhood conditioning, and nervous system insight, they unpack why boundaries often feel “mean,” why so many of us fear disappointing others, and how to finally shift from people-pleasing to true emotional safety.

The conversation explores:

• Why “no” is not only a full sentence—but an act of self-protection

• How boundaries keep us safe (not change others)

• What to do when people push back against your new limits

• Why guilt isn’t guilt—it’s discomfort

• How worthiness and nervous system regulation connect to boundary-setting

• Scripts, examples, and language to make boundaries easier in real life

• The “Coke Machine Response”—and why people push harder when you change

With honesty, humor, and practical tools, April and Andrea remind us that boundaries aren’t about controlling others—they’re about choosing you. And the more you practice, the safer, stronger, and more empowered you’ll feel.