IHSTS - Ep. 01 - WTF Are Boundaries, Anyway?

Episode 01: WTF Are Boundaries, Anyway?Show DescriptionBoundaries. Everyone talks about them, but do we really understand what they are? In this first episode, therapist Megan cuts through the buzzwords and gets real about the most overused and misunderstood topic in mental health. Spoiler alert: boundaries aren't about controlling other people—they're about what YOU do when faced with something uncomfortable.Join Megan and Producer Brian as they explore ghosting culture, the difference between "nice" and "kind," why your partner can't be your everything, and how to disagree with someone without going for the jugular. Whether you're navigating dating apps, family dynamics, or workplace relationships, this episode will change how you think about setting and maintaining healthy boundaries.Episode Highlights[00:00] Intro: The Most Misunderstood Mental Health Topic[01:05] What Boundaries Actually Are (about YOUR actions, not controlling others)[03:01] Kind AND Firm: Why "nice" is lying[05:28] Practical Strategies: Gracefully exiting uncomfortable conversations[08:37] Introvert vs. Extrovert Boundaries[10:48] Ghosting Culture: No contact vs. ghosting[15:33] Friendship Expectations: Not everyone needs to be your bestie[18:27] The Oversharing Problem: Trauma dumping and building safety[23:54] The Bicycle Wheel Analogy: Why you need multiple "spokes"[26:14] Disagreeing Without Destroying: Fair fighting rules[30:06] The "Head on Pillow" Test: Aligning with your valuesResources MentionedPositive Discipline framework (kind AND firm approach)https://www.positivediscipline.com/Brené Brown - vulnerability and trauma dumpinghttps://brenebrown.com/videos/anatomy-trust-video/John Gottman - stonewalling in relationshipshttps://www.gottman.com/blog/the-four-horsemen-recognizing-criticism-contempt-defensiveness-and-stonewalling/Fair Fighting Rules for couples counselinghttps://www.therapistaid.com/worksheets/fair-fighting-rulesTherapist's Toolkit: 3 Boundary Questions to Ask YourselfHave I clearly communicated this boundary? (Not just in your head—out loud to the person)Am I trying to control their behavior or defining my own response?Can I lay my head on the pillow tonight feeling aligned with my values?Need Support?If this episode brought up issues you'd like to explore on a one-on-one basis, or if you're experiencing a mental health crisis, please reach out to a qualified mental health professional.Crisis Resources:National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741SAMHSA National Helpline: 1-800-662-4357Some options to Find a Therapist near you:If you have insurance going to your online directory to search or calling the number of the back of your card can help get you a list of providers that take your insuranceGoogle: “Mental Health Counselor Near me”https://www.psychologytoday.com/usIf you are in Illinois and want to connect with our practice:https://riseandthrivewellness.net/Connect With UsHave a topic you want us to cover? Questions about boundaries or other mental health topics? We'd love to hear from you!Submit topic ideas: [email protected] us: instagram: @ihavesh_ttosay    Tiktoc: IHaveSh_tToSayYouTube: www.youtube.com/@ihavesh_ttosayRate & Review: Help others find the podcast by leaving a reviewPodcast Host: Megan Campbell, LCPC, ATR-BCPodcast Executive Producer: Brian T PrairiePodcast Operations Manager: MacKenzie CloyNew episodes drop every two weeks on Tuesday mornings at 5 am. Subscribe so you never miss an episode!Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not a substitute for professional mental health treatment. If you're in crisis or need personalized support, please contact a licensed mental health professional.