124. Listen To This If…. You need to say no to an invitation

Episode 8 of the Let's Talk SciComm podcast, hosted by Unimelb SciComm, titled "124. Listen To This If…. You need to say no to an invitation" was published on January 15, 2026 and runs 7 minutes.

January 15, 2026 ·7m · Let's Talk SciComm

Summary

Saying no can feel awkward, uncomfortable, or even selfish, especially when you want to be helpful or the opportunity feels exciting. In this episode of Listen to This If, in just 5 minutes Jen and Michael unpack how to decline invitations thoughtfully, professionally, and without burning bridges.They share a simple, practical formula for saying no with kindness, discuss how to weigh shiny opportunities against your time and energy, and explore why short-term discomfort is often better than long-term resentment. Along the way, they talk about building your “no muscle,” creating opportunities for others, and why toddlers might secretly be the best role models for boundary-setting.If you’re feeling over-committed, stretched too thin, or struggling to turn things down, listen now!You can find more great advice here:https://www.science.org/content/article/learn-when-and-how-say-no-your-professional-lifehttps://www.psychologytoday.com/au/blog/the-asymmetric-brain/202312/afraid-of-saying-no-to-an-invitation-dont-behttps://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-01-03/the-graceful-art-of-saying-no/11563272

Episode Description