Episode 11: "NO-Thanks— Finding the yes and gratitude in saying NO"

In this episode of the Powermomma Podcast, Sam kicks off her two-part "No Thank You" show, recorded on a hike at Runyon Canyon with her best friend of 28 years, newly-minted Dr. Helen Cunningham. Together, they dig into: What NO-vember is and why saying no before the holidays is survival, not drama The long, messy list of "No's": overscheduling, pointless meetings, comparison, self-doubt, multitasking, burnout & fake obligations The USC homecoming rain game: saying no to playing it safe, yes to taking chances and making core memories with their kids Choosing quiet, simple Thanksgiving over performative "big gathering" energy How to stop comparing yourself to other moms, podcasters, "perfect" people & instead learn from them Burnout red flags and real-life strategies: hikes, meditation, journaling, and stepping away before you crash This episode is the "NO" part of "No Thank You." Next up: the THANKS side of the story.