Welcome back to The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook Podcast—I’m your host, Dr. Dawn, and today’s episode is extra special. Not only is it our 75th episode, but it also marks my return to the mic after a much-needed, intentional break.

After a season of rest, reflection, and realignment, The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook Podcast is BACK—with a powerful new episode on one of the most underused career tools:
Knowing when—and how—to say NO.

In this comeback episode, I’m sharing:
✔ Why I took a podcast break and prioritized paying clients over free content
✔ 3 simple scripts and strategies to protect your time
✔ A fresh new plan for how I’m showing up consistently (without burning out)

If you’ve ever said yes when you really wanted to say no—this one’s for you.

Ok you guys, so let me take you back to the beginning and share a personal story as to WHY I decided to take this break and HOW prioritization plays into all of this. It starts in Paris, France and ended in Cancun Mexico.

That’s right, it started with 2 amazing family vacations I took this year. Let’s start in Paris… (Provence and Paris)…now let’s move on to the sandy beaches of Cancún, Mexico.

After ALL was said and done, when I got back, I had a calendar full of coaching clients and workshops.

So, I took my own advice and focused on the parts of my business that generate revenue and impact the most people one-on-one.

This show—and my YouTube channel—are ad-free, by choice. And while that means I’m not monetizing these platforms yet, it also means I have to be fiercely protective of my time.

But friends—I missed this. I missed you. So I’m back, and going forward, I’ll be simplifying things with shorter, more intentional episodes that still deliver value without burning me—or you—out. Let’s dive in!

Today we’re talking about when it’s OK to say no—and how to do it without guilt.

As career women, we’re often expected to do it all, be everywhere, and say yes to everything. But let me tell you something I had to learn the hard way: saying no is not selfish—it’s strategic.

Here are three powerful tips to help you start protecting your time and energy like the queen you are:

💡 Tip #1: Ask Yourself — “Is this a yes to my bigger vision?”

Every time you say yes to something, you’re saying no to something else. So ask yourself:
“Is this in alignment with where I want to go?”
This simple pause can save you from weeks of frustration or unnecessary obligation.

💡 Tip #2: Use the “Soft No, Strong Boundary” Technique

Here’s a script you can borrow:
“Thanks so much for thinking of me, but I need to pass this time to stay focused on my priorities.”
That’s it. Kind. Clear. No need to explain further.
Boundaries build trust—with yourself and others.

💡 Tip #3: Buffer your Time Between Meetings/Tasks

If your calendar has no white space, it means you’re always reacting, not leading.
Block off time for thinking, resting, or just being. You wouldn’t cancel a meeting with your boss—so don’t cancel the ones with yourself.

There you have it folks! We're back baby! We are your place for content like this and much, much more. Don't forget to check out the YouTube videos mentioned in Today's episode so that you can get extra support and also be sure to remember our motto..."if you're not having a fantastic day, YOU have the power to make it one!

Until next time! XO ~ Dr. Dawn

https://www.youtube.com/@drdawnshoptalk/podcasts